I am the commander of the assault group of the 23rd separate battalion. After learning about how to become part of the Ukrainian army online, a group of friends and I received additional information by e-mail and came here.

I was born in Peru, but for the last 12 years I have lived in Spain. I served in the Peruvian army and the US Marine Corps, and I have been to Iraq and Afghanistan. I have 25 years of military experience in different countries and situations. I left home early and have experience traveling to different regions, so I easily adapt to new places.

Here, in Ukraine, I am getting a “military master’s degree” — that is, a much higher level. This is a high-tech war, which significantly expands combat experience. We are participating in a war that will be included in history textbooks. Here, the most modern war is with drones and technological weapons. And we have the appropriate weapons and high-quality equipment. We have winter and summer clothes, but the main thing is safety: helmets, bulletproof vests, ammunition - everything is of the highest level.

We leave our homes, families to help Ukraine - and Ukrainians appreciate it. Their gratitude is incredible. You come to defend a country that was unfairly attacked. It is priceless.

For those who want to go, I have two pieces of advice. The first is honesty with yourself. I always tell my brothers: be honest with yourself. If you are able to spit in the face of death - then come. Next - honesty with your family. If you have fulfilled these two conditions - welcome. We need you here.

Ukraine will win this war thanks to the courageous hearts of Ukrainians. You can train the body and mind, but it is impossible to train the patriotism and heart of someone who defends his home, his family. A Ukrainian soldier in a trench thinks about his wife, children, parents... And no one will stand before this force. Therefore, Ukraine will win.

Glory to Ukraine!