One of our recent evacuations began like many others: we arrived in a war-torn town, responding to a potential request for help at a given address. As our chaplain approached the house, a sudden banging on the window caught his attention. Inside was an elderly lady.

She was disabled and unable to walk. Our chaplain and the police officers we work alongside grabbed one of her blankets, fashioned a makeshift stretcher, and carried her to our armored vehicle. We then began the journey back to our staging area.

These rides are always difficult, especially for the elderly. We have to maintain high speeds to minimize the risk, as faster-moving vehicles are harder targets. But with poor road conditions and the armored vehicle’s rough suspension, the ride can be jarring and painful.

Once we arrived safely at staging, the woman began to share her story. She had been trapped in her home for 15 days—10 of those without any food. Our chaplain quickly went out and returned with food and hot tea for her. As we waited for a medevac to arrive, we did our best to make her as comfortable as possible.

Despite everything she had been through, and all the pain she was in, she would thank us for even the smallest things we did for her.