By Oksana Melnyk

Publisher: Casemate Publishers
Date Published: 2024

A Review by Brian Williams

First Hand Accounts From the Ukrainian Frontline shares real, heartfelt stories from people living through the war in Ukraine. Edited by Oksana Melnyk, it gives a window into the everyday lives of Ukrainians who suddenly found themselves in a war zone.

Melnyk brings together a wide range of voices — soldiers, students, workers, teachers, volunteers, etc. who picked up a weapon to defend their homes. They talk about what they’ve seen and felt: the fear, the hope, and the struggle to keep going when everything around them has changed.

Every story is different. Some people had never held a gun before, while others were trained fighters. But they all share one thing in common: fierce love for their country and a determination to protect it.

Melnyk doesn’t just focus on battles — she shows us the people behind the conflict. We meet students, teachers, doctors, artists, and parents, all dealing with near-impossible situations. Their stories are full of bravery, kindness, and even moments of dark humor, giving us a real sense of who they are.

The book is set up so each chapter follows one person’s experience. That makes it easy to connect with each narrator and feel the impact of their story.

Chapters
• First Time
• To Fire the Galleys
• Jelly Air
• Azovstal
• Ring
• Survive That Winter
• Oseledets
• Pilot Project
• Flowers for Mom
• Mirror
• Grandpa
• Commander
• One-Way Ticket
• Catch Up With You
• Rubicon
• Sin
• Pigeon Mail
• Kissed by God
• Dontwhine
• 98 Per Cent
• What Happened to that Grandpa
• Little Bertha
• New York
• Fragments
• Morning

In conclusion, First Hand Accounts From the Ukrainian Frontline is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the personal toll of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people and a powerful reminder of the human cost of war.

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© 2025 Brian Williams

* Views expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent those of MilitaryHistoryOnline.com.