I learned about serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine through social networks, in particular through TikTok. I found comrades who had already served in the Ukrainian army. They provided me with information, and based on it I made my own decision. So I got from Bogota to Madrid, from Madrid to Warsaw, and from there directly to Ukraine.

In Colombia, I served in the army for some time, then worked as a security guard, and now I am serving as a marine in Ukraine. Here my service began with military training, which is radically different from Colombian. The training is very intensive, because here we work with heavy artillery and a large number of other weapons that I did not have to deal with in my country.

I also received excellent medical training, which is given great importance here. Because our lives and those of our comrades come first. A soldier’s life depends on everyone and on himself.

I have been in Ukraine for a year now. The adaptation process was a bit difficult at first. Different customs, traditions, language, behavior, and many other things. I gradually adapted to a different diet and over time even gained a little weight.

In the Ukrainian army, they provided me with everything I needed: uniform, equipment, food, weapons. Everything is very good. Excellent attitude towards me from the commanders. I also have decent financial support. Until now, I have never had experience sailing on boats, and here, in Ukraine, I got such an opportunity, because, as I already said, I belong to the marines. I gained a lot of useful experience.

My combat experience during this year was rich. I had to operate on a difficult section of the front with unstable conditions. But when you come here to serve, you are determined to perform your combat missions well. Now I am on vacation and waiting to sign a new contract to continue serving in the marines.

As a foreigner, I feel very protected by Ukrainians. These are wonderful people, and they are very grateful to us for coming to support them.

Glory to Ukraine!