Avdiivka. Two Russian soldiers leaning against a tree. Their task is uncertain – perhaps they are resting after an attack, perhaps they were told to provide security on a flank, perhaps they are waiting to move to an assault position. Whatever they are doing, they are not prepared for what comes next. A drone drops from the sky as though hurled from Olympus, striking its target with brutal finality. The soldier to the left is reduced to smoldering meat while his comrade is seemingly untouched. The survivor is decent enough to cover his friend’s smoking remains with a poncho before scampering off is search of another tree. This clip is a testament to the vulnerability of soldiers on a modern battlefield.

About the Author

Cam

Cam served as an infantry officer in the Marine Corps, deploying to the Horn of Africa and participating in combat operations in Iraq. He currently works in the maritime industry and in the defense sector as an instructor of combined arms planning and operations. An avid sailor, Cam founded and directs Triumph Sailing, a nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders through adventure and fellowship on the water. Triumph Sailing just completed its big yearly event, an offshore race in the Gulf of Mexico with an all veteran crew. You can support the mission and next year's sailing season at Tri-Sail.Org.