The international delegation, headed by Ana Lucía Bueno, ICRC Public Health Coordinator, and Sujit Panda, Head of the Physical Rehabilitation…
U.S. Army veteran Michael “Tex”, awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star, came to Ukraine for a few months — but the war changed his plans. He now serves in the 128th Brigade and calls Ukraine his home.
The soldier’s story was published on the brigade’s page.
20+ YEARS OF SERVICE IN THE U.S. ARMY, A PURPLE HEART AND A BRONZE STAR
“Tex” is 57 years old and spent more than two decades in the U.S. Army with the rank of Sergeant First Class. He took part in combat operations, including in Panama and the Persian Gulf.
“Other places — Latin America, also — Africa. And some — not public information”, — the veteran says.
Among his awards are two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars. Before the full-scale invasion, he worked as a power engineer, owned a solar and wind energy company which he sold, and also served as a missionary in Peru, where he helped build hospitals.
“NOW I’M UKRAINIAN”
Until 2022, “Tex” had never been to Ukraine, but he arrived in March of that year.
“I planned to stay in Ukraine for six to seven months and go back home… But when we were operating between Mykolaiv and Kherson, we saw Russians just walk into Ukrainian homes and seize them”, — he recalls.
One day, something happened that completely changed his decision.
“One of the Russians tore down a Ukrainian flag from a gate. I saw it. We retook the house and eliminated the enemy. I picked up the flag, put it into my vest… And in the evening I carefully folded it and handed it to our commander”, — “Tex” says.
The commander looked at him and said: “You’re Ukrainian now.”
“And I replied: then I have to stay…” — Michael says.
WOUNDS AND INSTRUCTOR WORK
“Tex” served in several combat units and fought near Pokrovsk, in the Zaporizhzhia region, and near Mykolaiv. He has sustained multiple wounds and concussions.
He now serves in the 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade. His knowledge of several foreign languages allowed him to become an instructor — he trains foreign fighters.
FUTURE PLANS: A HOME IN THE CARPATHIANS
Tex has six adult children in the U.S., and he is divorced. In Ukraine, he is building a new life: he has a loved one in Kyiv and plans to stay after victory.
“I’m looking at real estate in the Carpathians to build my home… I retired from the army and sold my business. So financially, I don’t need to work anymore,” the American shares.
Addressing Ukrainians, he adds:
“We will win this war… So don’t lose hope. We need your help. We need you to stay strong… Glory to Ukraine!”
