British paratrooper killed in Ukraine to be brought back to UK tomorrow | UK | News
The British paratrooper who tragically lost his life in Ukraine is expected to be sent back to the UK.
The return of 28-year-old Junior Corporal George Hooley following his untimely death last week will take place at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire on Wednesday afternoon.
According to Oxfordshire County Council, a private service will be held for family members only before the cortege departs, passing the memorial garden in Carterton and heading towards John Radcliffe Hospital.
L/Cpl Hooley, scheduled to be promoted to corporal next month, met his end while observing Ukrainian forces testing a new defensive capability.
The Parachute Regiment soldier, who previously served in Afghanistan, Africa and Eastern Europe, was hailed as “the glue” and “the laugh within his team” and “someone who showed deep kindness and genuine time for everyone.”
The company commander paid tribute and said: “His energy and enthusiasm were simply extraordinary.
“He provided a spark that uplifted 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: deep kindness and genuine time for everyone.
“Whether you were a lifelong friend, a colleague, or someone he had just met, he made you feel valued.
“He listened, he listened properly, and he cared. His door was always open, and his heart was even more open.”
During Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir Starmer described L/Cpl Hooley’s life as “full of courage and determination”.
He told MPs: “As part of the small number of British staff in Ukraine, he served our country with world-class honor and distinction in the cause of freedom and democracy.”
Britain had previously confirmed that a “small number” of military personnel were deployed in the country, primarily to ensure the security of the British diplomatic mission and to assist the Ukrainian armed forces.
The deployment of paratroopers in Ukraine had not previously been announced by the Government.
The Parachute Regiment is an airborne infantry unit of the British Army and is based primarily at Merville Barracks in Colchester.
