Major Andriy Samokhval, known by his call sign “Eney,” found inspiration in Ivan Kotliarevskyi’s poem “Eneida” while serving in the military. His journey from a civilian lawyer to a combat leader in the 77th Air Assault Brigade highlights the transformative impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Originally from Zhytomyr, Samokhval transitioned from a career in law and tax services to military service in July 2022, motivated by a desire to contribute actively during a time of war. He recalls a prophetic warning from a military instructor in 2012 about an impending conflict, which became a reality in February 2022.
After a month of retraining, he was assigned to the 77th Air Assault Brigade as a commander of an airborne platoon. His initial task involved preparing accommodations for soldiers returning from training in the United Kingdom. Samokhval noted that, upon their arrival, he was surprised to find their equipment only marginally superior to his own.
Under his leadership, the platoon engaged in rigorous physical training, including long marches to enhance endurance—an essential quality for combat scenarios. This preparation proved critical when his unit was deployed to the Donbas region in January 2023.
Upon arrival, Samokhval faced immediate challenges, including freezing temperatures that rendered their equipment inoperable. Despite these conditions, his unit persevered, eventually taking over defensive positions in the area.
As they approached Soledar, the reality of combat became evident. Samokhval described the chaotic environment filled with explosions and gunfire, which heightened the adrenaline among his troops. He led his men into a building where they encountered Wagner Group fighters, leading to intense exchanges of fire.
During the engagement, Samokhval sustained injuries but managed to escape with the help of his comrades. He later reflected on the ordeal, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and preparedness in the face of danger.
After recovering from his injuries, he transitioned to the 199th Training Center of the Air Assault Forces, where he now trains new recruits. He stresses the importance of building endurance and discipline among soldiers, adapting training to simulate real combat conditions.
Samokhval also addresses the psychological aspects of military training, noting that many recruits express concerns about overcoming fear. He employs various techniques to help them cope, including mental exercises and fostering a supportive environment.
Throughout his service, he has continuously sought to improve his skills, participating in training programs in France and the UK. He encourages civilians to actively support the military and engage with service members to understand their needs.
As he balances his responsibilities as a commander and a father, Samokhval reflects on the sacrifices made by soldiers and the ongoing challenges faced by those in uniform. He remains committed to his role, emphasizing the need for unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
Major Andriy Samokhval's transition from civilian life to military leadership underscores the profound changes brought about by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. His experiences highlight the importance of training, mental resilience, and the need for civilian support for military personnel.
