They will get their first military experience in training camps in the northern Albanian mountains before ducking across the border into the rebellious Kosovo province in a fervent guerrilla battle for an independent homeland. If it doesn't happen now, shame on all Albanians. The first recruits from the U.S. landed last weekend.
Many volunteers have relatives in Kosovo who are either dead or missing.
Albanians can do it themselves, but they don't have weapons. Only those who are ill or who can contribute financially are considered exempt. Though many have lived abroad for years, the recruits have maintained Albanian traditions, and many said there was no question that they would go. Recruit officer Fitim Krasniqi's life has undergone a dramatic turn in the 14 months of fighting over Kosovo. Now, the fighting has narrowed the prospects for himself and the recruits.