There are several things Legionaires can do to increase their survivability and effectiveness at the front:
- Learn from more experienced soldiers – This means listening and watching more than talking
- Volunteer and be helpful – This will be noticed
- Treat Ukrainian officers/NCOs with respect
- Be aware that nonsensical orders may be tests of your willingness to follow orders
- “Pick your battles” with your fellow soldiers and Ukrainian officers. This is not a NATO army, and trying to correct every mistake or problem might impede your ability to make a bigger difference later.
- Set an example. Be quietly better than anyone else, at everything.
- Be in excellent shape before you go. You won’t have an opportunity “get into shape” once there
- Don’t hurt yourself. Don’t expect a lot of sympathy if you do injure yourself
- Get a quality, sharp shovel and get good with it.
- Don’t get too comfortable in one place. Be ready to move quickly at short notice.
- Don’t attempt to act “Rambo” when the bombs are falling, and avoid any idiots who do.
- Choose to sleep in the uncomfortable trench over the more pleasant exposed position.
More to be added as time allows