A Soldier With the Nom de Guerre “GIT” Launched a Project to Recycle Items of War to be Used in the Interior

A team of volunteers in Lviv started the “GIT: Be Brave” project. Craftsmen turn shell boxes and fired cartridges into tables, chests or other interior items. The idea of the project belongs to Taras Pokorny, a military man with the nom de guerre “GIT”, a DataRobot engineer currently fighting in a combat zone. He was the one to deliver the first batch of boxes and cartridges from the front.

Each GIT product is a unique and handmade item in a single copy with authentic inscriptions and is made of high-quality materials. ALL proceeds go to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The project is implemented through the synergy of the military men, volunteers and artists. Yet again, this proves that together Ukrainians are strong and capable of coming up with and implementing the craziest idea to prevent the enemy from entering their home. The name of the project —“GIT: Be Brave” — originates from the idea author’s nom de guerre (GIT), and the second part — be brave — is the current inner message of every Ukrainian.

As of now, the list of products contains the world’s first drum from a used cartridge case and a “bankbettel” (a bench bed that can be used for sleeping or sitting) from a shell box. There is also a table, a bedside pouffe, a key box, and a chest. The first chest with Hutsul painting became a true work of art. Three craftswomen worked on the painting for a week. Next up is an ashtray made of a cartridge and a safe, which volunteer artists plan to present to the Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhny.

In February 2022, Taras Pokorny joined one of the most combat-ready volunteer units, which at that time defended the capital, holding the defence line in one of the directions. During the war, he realized how difficult it is to be a soldier, what a huge challenge it is. However, it was here that Taras’s crafting skills came in handy because one has to furnish the dwelling with materials at hand.

“If we cannot change the entire system, each of us can change something at his or her level, change him or herself,” emphasizes Taras Pokorny. “And if everyone did just that, it would be a big change. Last summer, my brothers-in-arms and I were pondering how to raise funds for the needs of the soldiers. I noticed that gunners use spent cartridges as ashtrays, chairs or stools, or even as bells during air raids. One fellow kept his tools in the ammunition box. I liked the idea of creating furniture from empty cases, giving things a second life. Volunteers supported. I am happy that our national culture is supported in this project and national ornaments are painted on the items. After all, this is a war not only for the territory; this is the war for our culture and nation, language and traditions.”

Products can be viewed and purchased on the project page: https://www.instagram.com/git_bebrave