Dignity Begins With a Hot Shower and Clean Socks
Ukraine
The Ukrainian Territorial Defense Forces have had troops in the field for many months.
From a cold winter, to a muddy spring, through a hot summer – the field conditions have only become more challenging over time.
A soldier’s inability to maintain personal hygiene can increase his likelihood of contracting skin diseases and illnesses.
It also has a devastating impact on individual and unit morale with a corresponding increase in sick leaves, mental health issues, and suicide rates.
To solve this challenge, Spirit of America, in partnership with the Ukrainian organization Dignitas, delivered 12 mobile combat showers to Ukrainian troops on the front lines.
A combat shower is outfitted with washers, dryers, and showers for soldiers to clean their dirty uniforms and themselves.
Combat showers provide necessary hygiene and laundry services on the front lines for 50-100 soldiers a day, moving to where they’re needed most.
Additionally, these units are used in vulnerable villages and communities, where civilians who haven’t had access to electricity or running water can also use them.
“Dignity begins with a hot shower and clean socks.”
Displayed in each unit, this statement underscores the profound impact of compassionate care on the battlefield.
These units fulfill basic needs for the men and women who selflessly serve their nation and defend the free world.
❝ I remember well when I was an infantryman in Belgium in November 1944. It took me 2.5 months before I got my first shower mid-January 1945. ❞
WWII veteran Ned Goodnow’s experience in 1945 inspired him to donate to our combat shower project. If you would like to join him in providing critical assistance to Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines, please support our Ukraine fund.
