Volunteers over 60 repair rockets to support Ukraine's fight

In Ukraine, a group of volunteers known as the Stepovi Vovky, or 'Steppe Wolves,' have emerged as a unique force in the ongoing war against Russia. Consisting entirely of members older than 60, these volunteers dedicate their efforts to repairing malfunctioning rockets and reusing them in the fight. While the Ukrainian Army enforces a retirement age of 60 for official soldiers, these volunteers refuse to let age or regulations stop them from contributing to the nation's defense. They undertake risky missions to retrieve misfired missiles from the battlefield, repair them, and return them for use against the invading forces. The group is not formally acknowledged by the military but has built a reputation among soldiers for executing tasks deemed too dangerous for regular troops. Once a rocket has misfired, the Wolves spring into action. They collect these hazardous materials from the frontlines and transport them to a covert workshop in the Zaporizhzhya region. Here, the members, who also maintain physical fitness through pushups and leg lifts, work diligently to diagnose and repair the rockets. Their commitment goes beyond mere casual efforts; members like Petsa, at 67, have been on the front lines for years, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining operational vehicles to ensure quick escapes from danger. Despite the challenges posed by their age and the current laws preventing them from official military enlistment, the Wolves demonstrate unwavering resilience. Petsa recounts how he initially attempted to join the military but was turned away due to age restrictions. Yet, he remains undeterred, stating that he continues to assist the troops based on years of experience on the front line. The scouting and repair of the rockets is not just a hobby for him but a critical lifeline for the soldiers relying on their functionalities. There is hope among the Wolves as a new law allowing older soldiers to officially serve is progressing in the Ukrainian parliament. If passed, this legislation could provide them access to essential resources, training, and weaponry. Until that potential change is realized, the Stepovi Vovky will continue their operations, fueled by public support and their drive to protect Ukraine, often charging into the fray with the battle cry, 'For Kharkiv, for the children!'