From 1983 to 1986, on an intermittent basis, I worked on the personal staff of Yaroslav Stetsko, leader of the Organisation of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN), head of the Anti-Bolshevik Bloc of Nations (ABN), Prime Minister of the Ukrainian Government proclaimed in 1941, and prisoner of Nazi Germany, as well as his life-long collaborator and wife, Slava Stetsko.
I was taught many skills and my role had several dimensions, including speech and correspondence writer, driver, minder, etc. I was also a courier to (underground) pro-democracy and pro-Ukraine allies and activists in Russian-controlled Eastern Europe and anti-Soviet fighters in Afghanistan/Pakistan.
These are the aspects that most struck me about “Druh Holova” and which, I believe, remain vital for Ukraine’s current independence struggle.
1. Always maintain your aim. A free, sovereign and democratic Ukraine. Never compromise that goal.
2. Build strong and abiding alliances. Stetsko knew that Ukraine’s interests and struggle needed allies against Moscow. He forged ties across Europe and Asia in a world that was much less global than today’s. A highlight was the White House meeting with President Ronald Reagan in 1983.
3. Moscow is the enemy. Stetsko was always crystal clear that Moscow is an exceptional entity in its imperial and hegemonic intent, and needs to be countered with absolute resolution and clarity. He never stepped back a centimetre from this position.
4. Treat your people with respect and dignity. Stetsko was a man of great gravitas and superior intellect but was impeccable in his treatment of those he dealt with.
5. Do the homework. Stetsko relentlessly worked at his tasks and sought excellence. Success was earned.
At the time, I was a young, brash and rough NYC guy. “Druh Holova” and Pani Slava showed me every kindness and encouragement including putting my potential to use for the greater good. They entrusted me with tasks in Ukraine’s cause and I hope I performed them well.
