Feature Photo: One of the groups that assist us in moving supplies to those still living on or near the frontline.
The day begins while the night’s darkness dominates. The sun is still below the horizon. Several trucks pull up and are loaded with items from our shipments plus the food that has been purchased to go to those stuck in villages near or on the frontlines. Some will go into the nearest villages where the threat of drones is a constant alert, and others arrange a meeting somewhere on some uncharted roadway (often a “road” that reminds me of the old farms’ “cow paths”).
Entering into those sections, one is careful to turn on the “drone scrambler,” don the anti-drone cape, and weigh another 60 lbs, that the body armor and helmet add to you. It is amazing to see the advancements in anti-drone technology that Ukraine has developed. Unloading the supplies, with the extra weight, is a challenge, and you appreciate the young knees and strong backs!
There are constant background noises of explosions (some small and others quite large), but soon these are almost “silent” as they become customary. Only as the near hits or the drone buzzing nears do the automatic defensive actions arise. The items are distributed to those who have not been able to leave their village for four years. Some receive these directly off the vehicles, but others have to wait until the troops personally deliver the buckets, water, and food.
Gratitude is speechless. Tears of appreciation fill the eyes and run down the weathered faces of the elderly.
Although the photo at the top of this report frames one group, it is not the only group in our network. There are many. Each one involved is very happy to do what s/he can do, and each sends a personal word of appreciation to the Lord’s Church!
Those resting 5,000 miles away will neither hear nor see the tears of gratitude, BUT all are involved, and ALL share a part in this work!
As soon as I entered Ukraine, even while in transit, messages of distribution and after-action reports started hitting Tanya’s Ukrainian phone. Such definitely do not respect jet lag!
In communication today, I was told: “The buckets that you ship have made you and the Church of Christ famous at every location on the front line! Everyone says they are wonderful. They provide items that are not possible in their location.”
Today Sergii told me that he’s working with TWENTY BATTALIONS! He gave me a chevron from one of the Regiments—the “5th Assault Brigade.” Sergii said that when you are given a chevron, it is a mark of respect and honor. By receiving the chevron, one becomes a member and an active arm of the battalion/Regiment/Brigade!
“Through your prayers” (Phlm 22), this trip will see multiple successes as “doors of opportunity” open (Colossians 4:3)!
Thank you for your constant prayers!
John L. Kachelman, Jr., UKRAINE MISSIONS, Dalraida Church of Christ, Montgomery, AL
