Uzbekistan's Honor Guard Battalion is a military unit that greets foreign leaders at high-level state ceremonies and symbolizes national pride. Several years ago, a female platoon was formed within this battalion, and today its service members stand alongside men at the country's most important state events. This article, timed for International Women's Day on March 8, details the stories of three platoon members – Captain Svetlana Proshkina, Private Dilshoda Ulugbekova, and Lieutenant Lola Juraeva.

Captain Svetlana Proshkina joined the National Guard from a sports background, having practiced athletics since age 11. She was accepted into service in 2018 and gained diverse experience, including work with an orphanage. When the female platoon was being formed, she passed the selection and was among the first ten service members. Her first state ceremony – the presidential inauguration – was highly emotional and responsible. Proshkina emphasizes that service requires not only physical fitness but also patience and resilience. As platoon commander, she faced challenges such as a language barrier and the need to issue strict orders. Her goal is to make the female platoon as professional as the male one.

Private Dilshoda Ulugbekova recently joined the battalion, having previously played for Uzbekistan's national basketball team. She learned about the service through her father and initially feared the difficulties, but became interested after seeing photos of Captain Proshkina. Her day starts at 5:30 AM, involving drill training and theoretical classes. Her sports experience aids in endurance and discipline, but she notes that service demands perfection in every movement. Her first time wearing the dress uniform and participating in state ceremonies fills her with pride in representing the country. Ulugbekova describes a friendly atmosphere and mutual support within the unit.

Lieutenant Lola Juraeva dreamed of military service since childhood, inspired by photos of her father who served in the Northern Fleet. She achieved her dream but now faces the challenge of balancing service with motherhood, raising a three-year-old daughter. She finds the prolonged absences from her child the most difficult aspect, yet this increases her sense of responsibility. Juraeva observes that service shapes character, making discipline part of daily life. She hopes her daughter will take pride in her service in the future. These women, despite the challenges, continue to serve with dedication and honor.

Source: podrobno.uz