Continuing Our Mission in Ukraine: Training and Supplies for Territorial Defense Battalions

Trainings Mission Report in Ukraine

On our latest training mission in Ukraine, we had the privilege to once again provide courses in basic tactical medicine and self-aid/buddy-aid. This time, our efforts were focused on the soldiers of the Territorial Defense Battalions (Батальйо?ни територ?а?льно? оборо?ни) near Kyiv. The mission was a testament to the power of collaboration and the dedication of our team and partners.

?? Teaming up with Lennart B. , we drove from the #Netherlands to #Ukraine to meet with Tamara Denysenko , Chris from Renegade Relief Foundation , Dimitry, and Max. Together, with the indispensable assistance of the local NGO Vinn Solard, we organized comprehensive courses in first responder care based on TCCC-ASM (Tactical Combat Casualty Care - All Service Members). Thanks to Dimitry who is Tactical Instructor, the courses were not only about medical training but also included individual movement techniques, tactical maneuvers, and small unit tactics.

The feedback from our former students has been overwhelmingly positive. They appreciated our unique training methods, which included simulation scenarios of increasing complexity and stress, utilizing fireworks, pyrotechnics, smoke, and additional casualties to enhance realism. We emphasized the importance of understanding the purpose behind each action in the #MARCHalgorithm, ensuring that procedures are not just routine but are based on knowledge and conscious decisions. Special focus was placed on accurate and effective #tourniquet placement. Our scenarios also stressed teamwork and communication.

Understanding the M.A.R.C.H Protocol

The M.A.R.C.H protocol is a systematic approach to managing trauma and is essential for effective combat casualty care. Here's a breakdown of the M.A.R.C.H algorithm:

• M (Massive Hemorrhage): The first priority is to control any life-threatening bleeding. This involves the use of tourniquets, hemostatic agents like QuikClot, and pressure dressings.
• A (Airway): Ensuring the casualty has a patent airway is crucial. This can involve simple maneuvers like head tilt-chin lift, using nasopharyngeal airways (NPAs), or advanced interventions if necessary.
• R (Respiration): After securing the airway, the focus shifts to breathing. This includes treating sucking chest wounds with chest seals and decompressing tension pneumothorax if required.
• C (Circulation): This step involves preventing and treating shock. This can be achieved through fluid resuscitation and maintaining body temperature.
• H (Head Injury/Hypothermia): Finally, managing head injuries and preventing hypothermia are critical. This involves monitoring neurological status and keeping the casualty warm.

By focusing on the M.A.R.C.H protocol, we ensure that the actions taken by first responders are purposeful, knowledgeable, and effective.

Deliveries and Donations

In addition to the training, we successfully delivered supplies to equip 30 Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKs). Each IFAK contained two black C-A-T tourniquets, one 6" combat bandage, one large pack of QuikClot, two packs of compressed gauze, two FoxSeal chest seals, and one NPA with lube. These crucial materials were handed over to the 5th Assault Brigade, courtesy of our friends from NGO Oseredok. The materials were purchased with the support of Protect Ukraine and Stichting United we Stand .

Lennard also organized a 4x4 vehicle to be delivered to the #Icequeen a Combat Medic who needed urgently a new 4x4,with the help of his network, this significantly enhancing the logistics capabilities of the Icequeen on the ground. I was able to arrange thanks to Bob the delivery of five laptops, which are currently en route to their final recipients. Special thanks to Bob and Christine Khariv for their support in this effort.

Acknowledgments

Our mission would not have been possible without the support of many dedicated individuals: Arjen Sterk , Derek de Vries , Bartjan Baten , Vincent van dijk , Niek Schenkeveld , Jan van Leeuwen , Marius C., Alain Klijmij , Albert Dijkstra , Miriam Dik-Knoppert , Ingrid Jochems , and HartKliniek .

Also Special thanks to Special Medics & Tactics, DUTCH TMC, Jos Boomgaard, Skills Meducation, MSS DEFENCE, NLTactical for supplying materials.

We also grateful to, Valerii Motylov for the letter of envoy from the Embassy of Ukraine in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Their unwavering support and contributions have been invaluable.

Final Thoughts

Hearing the stories of the Ukrainian civilians, volunteers, and soldiers was profoundly humbling. Each narrative is a stark reminder that they are paying for our freedom with their blood. These brave individuals face unimaginable hardships daily, and their resilience and determination to protect their homeland are truly inspiring.

Visiting memorials in Kyiv was a powerful and emotional experience. It served as a strong reminder of the sacrifices made and the ongoing struggle against oppression. These memorials are not just historical sites but living tributes to the courage and strength of the Ukrainian people. They reaffirm our commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight for freedom and justice.

This mission reinforced the importance of our work and the urgent need for continued support. The skills and supplies we provide are vital lifelines in the field, enhancing the capabilities of the Ukrainian forces and helping to save lives. Our training programs, which stress realism and practical application, prepare these brave men and women for the harsh realities of combat, ensuring they are better equipped to handle emergencies and protect each other.

The demand for our training continues to grow, and we are committed to returning to Ukraine as often as necessary. Our unique approach, focusing on realistic scenarios and the MARCH protocol, has proven effective and well-received. The gratitude and feedback from our trainees motivate us to keep pushing forward.

We must not let fatigue or challenges deter us. The sacrifices of the Ukrainian people remind us that our efforts, no matter how small they may seem, make a significant difference. Every tourniquet we teach to apply, every strategic maneuver we practice, and every piece of equipment we deliver contributes to their fight for freedom.

In these trying times, our solidarity and support are more critical than ever. By standing with Ukraine, we honor their bravery and affirm our commitment to the values of freedom and democracy. Let us continue to work together, drawing strength from each other and the incredible courage of those we support.

Thank you to everyone who supports our mission. Together, we are making a tangible impact, helping to save lives, and standing firmly with Ukraine in its fight for freedom.

Final Final Thoughts : A Poem for Ukraine

In the heart of a land where courage stands tall, Where echoes of freedom to duty call, We find ourselves humbled by stories so deep, Of civilians, volunteers, and soldiers who weep.

Through battles fierce and nights so long, Their spirits unwavering, their hearts so strong, Each sacrifice made, each tear that falls, A testament to resolve, where liberty calls.

From Kyiv’s memorials, with silent grace, Emerge the tales of a steadfast race, A people united, in purpose and will, Their strength and valor no foe can still.

With every tourniquet, with every aid, In each lesson learned, in each hand we've laid, We see the hope in their eyes gleam bright, A beacon of faith in the darkest night.

Their fight is ours, intertwined by fate, For freedom's door, they are the gate, We stand with them, through storm and strife, In solidarity, we breathe new life.

For in their blood, the future sows, A garden of peace where freedom grows, Our mission clear, our hearts aligned, With Ukraine, our spirits bind.

So let us march, with heads held high, In unity, under the same sky, For every hero, for every dream, Together, stronger, in freedom’s gleam.

Thank you to all who support and care, In this journey of hope, beyond compare, Together, we rise, we stand, we fight, For Ukraine, for freedom, for what’s right.