A 28-year-old American has told ArmyInform that he came to Ukraine to join the Armed Forces after years of interest in the war and the events that began back in 2014. He is from North Carolina, a state often called “first in freedom.”
For him, this decision wasn’t spontaneous.
“I’ve been interested in Ukraine since 2014 and in its struggle for democracy, for the right to remain a free country,” he says.
He followed the war for years but only made the decision now.
It all started with simple conversations on social media.
“I was 15, just meeting people. One Ukrainian, Danylo, told me about Maidan and the war. That’s how I began to understand what was really happening," the volunteer recalls.
The decision to come developed gradually. Until 2025, he didn’t have the opportunity to leave his job and relocate, so he saved money and waited.
Ordinary worker with no military experience ends up on front line
Before the war, he worked in construction and repair.
“I worked with my hands with air conditioners, windows, gutters, siding. I did everything,” he says.
These skills proved useful in the military. After arriving in Ukraine, he chose a unit and eventually joined the 47th Brigade.
“If you want to fight, go to the 47th. When I got here, I realized it was the right choice,” the soldier adds.
Why his call sign is known among his comrades and what he advises others
He got the call sign “Forrest” in childhood because of his slower speaking pace. The name stuck and has now become part of his military story.
After two months of basic training, he moved on to active service, but training continues constantly.
“Instructors here look at what you can do, find your weak spots, and work on them. Mistakes should stay on the training ground, not in battle,” he explains.
He doesn’t regret his decision and gives simple advice to those considering joining the war: “Go hiking, carry a backpack, train with your own body weight. If you can, practice shooting at a range. And then come here and do what you’re meant to do.”
