Ukrainian Militia in Kiev, August 1943
As the Union blew past Line-Don and while the streets of Moscow ran red, the people of Kiev never doubted their
Hetman. "The Hetman will save us!" cried some. "The Germans will save us from the Reds!" cried the others. But it would not be so.
On February 23, 1943, the first Russian shells hit the outskirts of the city, causing panic. Most Kievans did not know of the extent of the war, few messages from soldiers and civilians escaped the containment barrier across the front. Nevertheless, they still rose up to fight the Red menace. Kievans on the hilltops could see great blankets of smoke and bright orange explosions far off as the Pakt soldiers did all they could to stem the tide.
However, the Russian forces edged closer and closer to the city, and all the able-bodied men were conscripted, regardless of stature or nobility. Once they were gone, reinforcement units and volunteers trickled in from all over Ukraine, as well as women and nearly-eligible teenagers. The sight of lovers walking arm-in-arm down Lavrska street wouldn't have been irregular if they weren't clad in ill-fitted fatigues, carrying mismatching weapons.
Indeed, Glory to Ukraine.
Russian Soldiers crossing a stream in Kiev, August 1943
The Russians had been through hell to get here, and they sure as hell would not be stopped now. Dmitry wish they had stopped. No one had thought of the soldiers in this war, what they went through.
"
March 26th, 1944
This battle has gone on for months now. Ivan and Sasha were killed yesterday and despite two new men where they were, I've never felt so alone in my life. I've never felt more vulnerable, even though I'm resting on the back of a tank while I'm writing this. I wish you were here Mama. I have half a mind to send you this page when it's finished, if it ever gets finished. Last time they attacked they killed Ivan, Sasha a few hours before that. I know they are gearing up for another attack, and this time I hope our tanks can stop them in their tracks. Yes, I did do that on purpose, hehe, I suspect you will find it funny. Tell Misha that he should take his time growing up, and tell Katya that I love her with all my heart. She and I would've made great parents for your grandbabies, but I'm not so sure I will provide those to you mama. I love you forever and always,
Dima."