Captain Ulyana Dovbysh, a leader in Ukraine’s military, shares her journey from a medical role in the Marine Corps to her current position in the Air Assault Forces, where she supports mobilized personnel.
Path to the Air Assault Forces
Ulyana began her military service after graduating as a paramedic during the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) in Eastern Ukraine. Inspired by her father’s mobilization, she joined the 36th Separate Marine Brigade in February 2016, initially serving as a medical assistant before transitioning to a radio-telephone operator in the artillery division.
Her deployments included locations such as Vodiane, Shyrokyne, and Snake Island, where she faced rigorous challenges, including a demanding obstacle course to earn her marine beret. Despite the difficulties, Ulyana recalls the pride she felt upon achieving this milestone.
In 2017, she enrolled in the National Academy of Land Forces, focusing on personnel psychological support. During her studies, she became a mother, balancing her academic responsibilities with childcare, supported by her family.
After graduating at the top of her class, she and her husband were assigned to the 95th Separate Air Assault Brigade. However, due to a reorganization, they accepted positions at the 199 Training Center of the Air Assault Forces.
Motherhood Amidst Conflict
When her son was one year old, Ulyana took on a new role at the training center. Shortly before the full-scale war began in February 2022, she went on maternity leave. Following her husband’s deployment, she relocated with her children to her mother-in-law’s home. Ulyana gave birth to her daughter on March 3, 2022, navigating significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict.
After a year and a half, she returned to duty, with her children now attending preschool. As the deputy commander of the training company for psychological support, she not only conducts training sessions but also addresses various issues faced by recruits.
Supporting Recruits
Ulyana describes the recruits arriving at the center as often anxious and disoriented. Her approach emphasizes building trust, assuring them of her commitment to assist with their concerns. She recounts instances where recruits express personal milestones, such as wanting to marry, leading her to facilitate their weddings.
She recalls a particularly touching ceremony for a couple of jewelers who crafted their own rings, and another case where a father of five received a deferment from service after marrying the mother of his children.
Colleagues affectionately refer to her as a matchmaker, while recruits see her as a maternal figure.
Teaching Resilience and Responsibility
Ulyana emphasizes the importance of preparing recruits for the realities of military life. She reassures them that fear is a natural response, and she shares stories of young soldiers who volunteered early in the war. Her observations reveal that many recruits mature significantly during their training.
Common issues among recruits include financial concerns and health assessments, which the center addresses. Ulyana explains the process for those with health issues, ensuring they receive appropriate evaluations and support.
Some recruits initially fear handling weapons, not due to religious beliefs but from the fear of causing harm. Ulyana and her team work patiently to help them overcome these fears, fostering a supportive environment.
Commitment to Service
Ulyana acknowledges the challenges of her role, which involves addressing the diverse needs of recruits. She finds motivation in her children, who inspire her to balance her demanding career with family life. Despite her heavy workload, she plans to extend her service contract, feeling a strong connection to her military duties.
With family members also serving in the armed forces, Ulyana believes that the military requires individuals from various professional backgrounds, ensuring that everyone can contribute meaningfully.
Captain Ulyana Dovbysh reflects on her military career, balancing motherhood and service in Ukraine's Armed Forces. She plays a crucial role in supporting mobilized personnel, addressing their personal and professional challenges while fostering resilience among recruits.
