Edwin, a Colombian soldier identified as “Thanos”, serves in the 2nd International Legion for Defence of Ukraine. With a decade of military experience, he dedicated himself to the Ukrainian cause post-invasion, earning respect for his bravery and skill. His commitment to combat is underpinned by faith, camaraderie, and a profound belief in his mission to defend freedom.

Edwin, a soldier known by his call sign “Thanos”, serves in the 2nd International Legion for the Defence of Ukraine, showcasing his military background from Colombia. With ten years of experience, he has bravely confronted local criminal organizations, earning commendations such as the Colombian Struggle Medal and the Sword of Freedom. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Edwin chose to resign from his role and offer his assistance to the Ukrainian cause.

His family was understandably apprehensive about his decision to fight in Ukraine, expressing their fears given the war’s intensity. Despite their concerns, Edwin remains resolute in his choice, sharing positive experiences of his time in Ukrainian cities like Kyiv and Ternopil, which he describes as beautiful and well-organized.

Joining the International Legion in March 2024, Edwin has seen combat in areas such as Serebrianka Forest and Pokrovske, earning the respect of fellow soldiers for his bravery and expertise. He emphasizes the importance of mental control during operations and credits his faith in God as a source of protection and confidence.

Edwin maintains a complex perspective on his adversaries, respecting those who carry arms while expressing disdain for the actions of Russian forces in Ukraine. He acknowledges the dedication of Ukrainians defending their homeland, stating that he will continue fighting as long as he possesses the fervor to do so.

Professionally committed to his military duties, Edwin exemplifies courage and reliability, adeptly handling various weapons and continuously volunteering for challenging missions. He offers no blanket advice to potential legionnaires, recognizing that each individual’s decision to serve is personal and varies according to their character and motivation.

He shares that the initial moments in a battle require mental preparedness and motivation, alongside applying lessons learned during training. Edwin’s deep faith plays a crucial role in maintaining his composure during missions, highlighting that God provides him with the strength needed.

His commitment extends beyond combat; Edwin values the camaraderie formed during shared hardships. He likens his unit to a family, where mutual reliance fosters stronger bonds among soldiers. Within this context, he feels a profound responsibility to care for his wounded comrades.

Edwin humorously notes the physical demands of military life, relating a saying among legionnaires: “You carry like a donkey, but you live like a king.” This reflects the difficulties of transporting equipment, yet he shares a heartening perspective on the value of having the necessary ammunition during combat.

Culinary differences between Colombian and Ukrainian food often serve as a point of cultural exchange, with Edwin candidly expressing his preference for Colombian cuisine while embracing other aspects of life in Ukraine. He maintains traditional family values, frequently speaking with his mother for her blessings before missions, reassuring her of his safety.

Edwin concludes that joining the Legion is an individual choice, emphasizing that readiness to engage in combat is vital for maintaining unit integrity. The resolve and bravery of those who stand against Russian aggression unify over 75 nationalities within the International Legion, with Edwin, as “Thanos”, proving to be among the most steadfast of soldiers, prioritizing his duty and family bonds even amid the chaos of war.

To explore further about the International Legions for the Defence of Ukraine, additional information is available through provided resources.

The account of Edwin, a Colombian soldier known as Thanos, illustrates the profound commitment of foreign fighters in the International Legion for the Defence of Ukraine. His journey reflects a blend of military courage, personal sacrifice, and unwavering faith. Edwin’s respect for the Ukrainian people and his understanding of the weight of warfare highlight his noble character. Ultimately, his story is one of bravery, camaraderie, and dedication to a just cause, reiterating the global stand against aggression and the unbreakable bonds formed between soldiers in conflict.

Original Source: en.defence-ua.com

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