Samnahinth, a US Air Force drone pilot, recently returned to New York City after spending three weeks volunteering on the frontline in Ukraine. The 32-year-old, who is studying art at Columbia University, understandably feels uneasy about coming back home, especially after being surrounded by anti-Israel protests in May.
He’s a proud patriot and joined the Air Force right after high school in North Carolina. His recent summer trip involved volunteering with a relief group, providing essential supplies directly to areas under attack.
During his time there, he faced constant threats, from drones to relentless artillery fire, and endured heavy bombardments. Yet, when it was all over, he realized he didn’t want to leave.
Reflecting on the atmosphere at his school, he mentions a recent incident involving a group that had protested at Columbia, highlighting a disconcerting image of a fellow veteran wrapped in an American flag, sarcastically captioned. This, he feels, underscores his isolation on campus.
It’s disheartening for veterans, like him and his friend Brandon Christie, who tragically took his own life. As Veterans Day was overshadowed by a Martial Arts Day event at Columbia, Nahins felt an acute sense of alienation.
His motivations for heading to Ukraine stem from his military background—operating drones far from home in combat against extremist groups. While he had served overseas, this was his first real immersion in a warzone.
In Ukraine, he felt a sense of purpose and clarity. Despite being under fire from drones, it was reassuring to know who the enemy was, unlike his experiences in New York. Here, he feels more unwelcome than he did there.
Diving deeper into the contrasts, he expresses his frustration at being labeled harshly by classmates who have never faced similar challenges. In Ukraine, the warm reception of the American flag stands in stark contrast to the negativity he perceives in Columbia.
His observations reveal a broader social divide—in Ukraine, despite their struggles, there’s a strong sense of unity. Yet, back home, he senses division and hostility. He notes an odd “oppression Olympics” mentality in America, while Ukrainians strive to remain resilient and proud.
Throughout his experience, he realized the Ukrainians possess a deeper appreciation for America than many in the US do. Before leaving Ukraine, he was offered several job opportunities, and now he faces the tough decision about whether to return.
While he remains committed to his country, the feelings of being unwanted in his current environment weigh heavily on him.
