Ivan Tarn, 33
Ivan TARN, fighters of the "Artan" unit.
Belgian businessman, economist by education.
Studied at Artesis Plantijn University College of Antwerp.
Ivan Tarn, 33
Hi, my name is Ivan. I was born in Ternopil. At the age of 10 my family moved to Ghent, Belgium, where I lived until the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. Having served in the French Foreign legion, I had all the necessary skills to join active service in the Ukrainian Military immediately following the events of February 2022. My active military duty was cut short near Bakhmut after 9 months due to a combat injury whereby I lost my right foot.
I am not new to business, having managed a hotel in Belgium. Since my injury does not allow me to continue active military duty, I am determined to help Ukraine and its people by not only providing humanitarian assistance but also contributing to the economic growth of the country, which is essential in order to bring Ukrainian refugees back after the war.
I chose to participate in the Young Veterans Ukraine project in order to have access to a wide network of Ukrainian and international businessmen who can help me develop my business ideas in the hospitality sector. In my opinion, networking is key to success as an entrepreneur.
Interview
Ivan Tarn, a fighter of the GUR.Belgian businessman, economist by education. Studied at a Belgian state university.
Born in 1989 in Ternopil (Ukraine), at the age of 10 he moved with his family to Belgium, the city of Ghent.
Hello, my name is Ivan Tarn, and I voluntarily returned to Ukraine to defend my Motherland.
I served in the French Legion in 2015 - 2017, so having experience, I did not hesitate to make the decision to join the ranks of the Armed Forces. I believe that this is an adequate step of a Ukrainian who knows how to use weapons.
In parallel with the two months of military training before we went on combat missions, I used my foreign connections to provide volunteer assistance to both the Armed Forces and the civilian population.
During 9 months of active fighting, I found many loyal, true friends with whom we stood side by side. I realized that my life also depends on them, and theirs on my actions. At the front, people are real, without pretense, and it hits straight to the heart. I hope that people in peaceful regions will not forget the cost of this war and the fact that we are still independent.
I completed about 20 combat sorties, and unfortunately, in February 2023 near Bakhmut, I was wounded during a combat mission, as a result of which my foot was amputated.
Regardless of the injuries, I will continue to serve in defense of the Ukrainian people, using all my knowledge to increase the country's defense capabilities.
During the war, I finally understood that Ukraine is my land and I see my future here. And I understood who is a real friend for us, and who is an enemy. I am indebted to the civilized world for supporting Ukraine and for solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
Ivan Tarn
Fighter of the GUR