When we arrived with the concert brigade, we faced an awkward logistical clash. Our lead soloist couldn’t stay overnight because he had a scheduled performance back in Kharkiv.
I approached the commander and suggested, “Let’s hold the concert today.” He hesitated, explaining that half of the brigade was currently on duty at their posts and wouldn’t be able to watch. “What about tomorrow?” I asked. He replied that they would be available tomorrow. “But those who are resting today will be on duty tomorrow and will miss it anyway, right?” I argued. He nodded in agreement. I suggested we perform for the half that was available right then.
That night, the order came to march toward Ilovaisk. Many of the young men from that brigade never returned. Because of that scheduling dilemma, half of them never got to see the concert.