The Hospitallers volunteer medical battalion operates a bus called “Avstriika” that evacuates wounded Ukrainian soldiers from the front line in Donetsk Oblast to hospitals in Dnipro city. The bus is named in memory of a fallen military medic, Natalya Frauscher, who was a member of the battalion. On April 25, the bus picked up 33 wounded soldiers from the Avdiivka area, one of the hottest segments of the front line. The team of volunteer medics and a driver provide necessary medical treatment, water, snacks, and complete paperwork for the soldiers during the journey.
The bus has evacuated over 4,000 wounded service members in two years and operates on a demand basis without a fixed schedule. During busy times, such as the summer counteroffensive or battles in Bakhmut and Avdiivka, the bus makes multiple daily trips, each taking up to eight hours. The wounded soldiers on board the bus often use this opportunity to rest, chat with others, or simply recuperate after being on the front lines. Many soldiers recount intense experiences, such as being surrounded by Russian forces or engaging in combat in villages like Berdychi.
Upon arrival in Dnipro, the hospital staff is ready to receive the wounded soldiers. Those who can walk are escorted inside, while the more severely injured are carried by the medics. The Hospitallers then rest or sleep on the journey back to their base until the next group of wounded soldiers requires their services. The dedication and compassion of the volunteer medics, referred to by their first names and callsigns for security reasons, reflect their commitment to treating every life with dignity and ensuring that every person matters.
The work of the Hospitallers Medical Battalion highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainian troops in the conflict with Russia. With Ukrainian forces sometimes outnumbered and in need of reinforcements, the efforts of volunteer medical personnel play a crucial role in evacuating and providing care for wounded soldiers. The bus evacuation system implemented by the battalion demonstrates the resilience and resourcefulness of Ukrainian military and civilian volunteers in supporting their armed forces during times of intense combat and adversity.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the courage and sacrifice of Ukrainian soldiers and volunteers, such as those in the Hospitallers Medical Battalion, remain a testament to the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people. Despite facing significant challenges and dangers on the front lines, these individuals continue to provide vital medical support and evacuation services for wounded service members, embodying the spirit of solidarity and determination in the face of adversity. Support for independent journalism and awareness of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is crucial in highlighting the stories and experiences of those directly impacted by the war and showcasing the remarkable efforts of individuals working to support their fellow countrymen in times of need.
