From Soldier to Supporter: A Sergeant's Journey in Myanmar's CDM Movement
The following message was submitted by a Sergeant from the Myanmar military who defected to join the democracy movement. Note that Better Burma has continued to support the lives of soldiers and their families who defect, to encourage more members of the military to refuse to follow orders to commit atrocities. We welcome any further contributions that can support this effort!
“I made a resolute decision and confided in my wife that I couldn’t stay in the army any longer. With the help of sympathetic individuals, we secretly plotted our escape to the border.”
“I'm a sergeant with over 40 years of experience serving in an infantry unit. You see, as soldiers, our lives are spent on the front lines, defending our country. While we're out there risking it all, our families back home brave the harsh elements, enduring both scorching heat and bone-chilling cold. In the midst of it all, I, like many others, simply followed orders from above without much thought, juggling my military duties with the added responsibilities of my family.
Then came the coup in February 2021, and at first, it didn't hit me as something extraordinary. Our lives have always been this way – living within the confines of this military bubble. I collected my paycheck, ate the provided rations, and barely had time to send a thought, let alone food, to my family. But as I continued my service, I began hearing disturbing news from my own children, news that left me shocked and deeply ashamed. My own comrades, fellow soldiers, were involved in the senseless killing of innocent children, women, and men. My own children questioned, "Dad, are you part of the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM)?" I asked, "What's CDM?" They explained it as uniting with the people to fight against the military dictatorship. At first, I lacked the courage, thinking I was too old for such a radical change. I feared that leaving the army would leave me vulnerable, without a clear path for sustenance or shelter.
But as time passed, I grew increasingly disheartened with my role in the army, sensing the growing resentment from the people. Even the elderly lady at the corner store treated me as if I was unwelcome! Even my wife was now calling me up less than ever before, and I began to feel like an outsider. The daily news from the liberated areas gave me the strength I needed to take that leap of faith. I made a resolute decision and confided in my wife that I couldn't stay in the army any longer. With the help of sympathetic individuals, we secretly plotted our escape to the border.
When we finally arrived, everything felt different – the atmosphere, the newfound freedom – it was a breath of fresh air. Being away from the shadow of the military allowed me to see things I had previously been blind to. The people here welcomed us with open arms, offering encouragement at every turn. True, life without a steady income or a proper home is challenging, but thanks to the generous donors who provide food, my family is comfortable.
Now that I've taken a stand alongside the people, I find myself without a job. Despite the lack of a home, I'm grateful that my family doesn't go to bed hungry, thanks to those who donate food. I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to those who support families like mine. And to my fellow soldiers who chose to stand with the people and the truth, despite the hardships, I say, "We are here, on the side of the people and the truth, and we won't go hungry."
Sincerely,
CDM Sgt