The body of a British paratrooper killed in what has been described as a "tragic accident" in Ukraine is due to be repatriated to the United Kingdom this week.
Ceremony and Cortege Route for Fallen Soldier
The repatriation of Lance Corporal George Hooley, aged 28, will take place at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire on Wednesday afternoon. He died in Ukraine last week. A private ceremony for his family will be held before the cortege departs.
According to Oxfordshire County Council, the procession will pass the memorial garden in Carterton en route to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.
A Soldier Remembered: "The Glue" of His Team
L/Cpl Hooley, who was set to be promoted to the rank of corporal next month, lost his life while observing Ukrainian forces test a new defensive capability. The soldier, a member of The Parachute Regiment, had seen previous deployments in Afghanistan, Africa, and eastern Europe.
In heartfelt tributes, he was characterised as "the glue" and "the laughter within his team". His company commander stated: "His energy and enthusiasm were 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."
The commander added: "George had a rare gift: a deep kindness and genuine time for everyone. His door was always open, and his heart even more so."
Political Recognition and UK Military Presence
During Prime Minister's Questions, Sir Keir Starmer paid tribute, saying L/Cpl Hooley's life was "full of courage and determination". He told MPs the soldier had "served our country with honour and distinction around the world in the cause of freedom and democracy, including as part of the small number of British personnel in Ukraine."
While the UK has previously acknowledged a limited number of military personnel are in Ukraine—primarily for diplomatic security and supporting Ukrainian forces—the specific presence of paratroopers had not been publicly disclosed by the Government until now.
The Parachute Regiment, an airborne infantry unit of the British Army, is primarily based at Merville Barracks in Colchester.
