A Calling to Protect: The Story of Mykola Karpenko

Dignity isn’t always evident in grand statements or public acts. Often, it lies in a person’s daily choice to remain true to their principles—even in the most difficult circumstances. This story is about my dad, Ukrainian soldier Mykola Karpenko. He made a conscious decision to pursue his career long before the war began. He completed the necessary training and preparation, so by 2014 he was already on active duty. For him, participating in combat operations was not a sudden decision—it was a continuation of the path he had chosen. The war in eastern Ukraine became a part of his life for years. During this time, he endured a series of difficult and dangerous situations that are rarely discussed publicly. These included concussions, constant exposure to the threat of shelling, and physical and psychological exhaustion. One of the most critical incidents was the explosion of the vehicle in which Mykola Karpenko was traveling. The fact that he survived can be considered an exceptional case. Despite what he went through, he did not leave the service. His decision to continue fulfilling his duties was a testament to his fortitude and sense of responsibility. With the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Mykola Karpenko found himself on the front lines once again. Without fanfare, he does his job—defending the state and its citizens. He himself is not inclined to call his actions heroic. For him, it is a professional duty. At the same time, it is precisely this attitude—devoid of grandstanding but filled with responsibility—that is a manifestation of dignity. As a journalism student, I am learning to see what is meaningful in stories that, at first glance, seem ordinary. My dad’s story shows that dignity is measured not by words, but by concrete actions. It is the ability to stand firm, not lose one’s inner core, and remain true to one’s convictions even in critical conditions. For me, Mykola Karpenko is not just a soldier, but an example of a person who proves every day what true dignity is.