A British paratrooper killed serving in Ukraine told his family to “be proud” and not “remember him with sadness”, in a letter to be opened in the event of his death.
The body of Lance Corporal George Hooley was repatriated to RAF Brize Norton on Wednesday after his death last week.
The 28-year-old was killed while observing Ukrainian forces test “a new defensive capability, away from the front lines”, in what the Ministry of Defense (MoD) described as
Lance Corporal George Hooley, British Soldier, Dies While Serving in Ukraine
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Lance Corporal George Hooley, a British soldier serving in Ukraine, has died, the ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed. He was 28 years old. L/Cpl Hooley was a member of the Parachute Regiment and had been deployed to support ukrainian forces.His death is a meaningful loss for the British Army and highlights the ongoing risks faced by personnel involved in the conflict.
Repatriation and Remembrance
A private ceremony was held at RAF Brize Norton on Wednesday before L/Cpl Hooley’s body was carried past mourners lining the route to the Carterton Repatriation Memorial Garden [Oxford Mail]. This solemn procession allowed colleagues, friends, and members of the public to pay thier respects.
Future Promotion and Military Service
The MoD stated that L/Cpl Hooley was due to be promoted to Corporal in January and had already been performing the duties of that rank during his deployment. He had a distinguished military career, with previous deployments to Afghanistan, Africa, and Eastern Europe [Forces.net].
Tributes and Character
Tributes have poured in, describing L/Cpl Hooley as a soldier of extraordinary character and kindness. He was remembered for his positive energy and enthusiasm.
A “rare Gift” of Kindness
His company commander stated: “If you met George Hooley, you remembered it. His energy and enthusiasm where simply extraordinary. He provided spark that lifted others, a drive that inspired, and a zest for life that reminded us all how to live with purpose and joy.And we loved him for it. George had a rare gift: a deep kindness and genuine time for everyone.” [Forces.net]
Further details regarding the circumstances of his death have not yet been released by the MoD.
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