Wednesday, 10 December 2025

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Dear 222 News viewers, sponsored by smileband, 

Tribute to a Brave Soldier: Remembering Lance Corporal George Hooley

It is with deep sorrow that we reflect on the tragic loss of Lance Corporal George Hooley — a 28-year-old paratrooper of the Parachute Regiment — who has become the first serving member of the British Armed Forces publicly confirmed to have died in Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began in 2022.  

According to the Ministry of Defence, George Hooley died on Tuesday 9 December 2025 in what has been described as a “tragic accident” — while observing Ukrainian forces testing a new defensive capability, away from the front lines.  

A Life of Service and Courage

Hooley joined the British Army in November 2015, later receiving his training at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick before joining the Parachute Regiment.  

Over his career, he served in deployments across AfghanistanAfrica, and Eastern Europe.  

He was due to be promoted to corporal in January — a testament to his commitment, professionalism and leadership.  

His dedication — to serving his country and supporting Ukraine at a perilous time — stands as a powerful example of duty and selflessness.

Words of Condolence and Remembrance

The news of Hooley’s death has drawn heartfelt tributes from across the UK and beyond:

Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, described his passing as a grievous loss and offered the “deepest sympathy and condolences” to his family, saying that his service and sacrifice “will never be forgotten.”  

John Healey, the Defence Secretary, expressed being “devastated” by the loss, extending thoughts to Hooley’s family, friends and colleagues as they grieve.  

To George Hooley’s family — we offer our most sincere condolences. Your loss is immeasurable, and we share in your grief. May his memory be honoured, and his sacrifice never forgotten.

Context: What This Means Amid the Conflict

The accident occurred during a weapons test — not combat — underlining that even support and training missions carry grave risks.  

Until now, while dozens of British nationals have died fighting in Ukraine (often as volunteers), this is the first time a serving UK soldier’s death in Ukraine has been officially acknowledged.  

The acknowledgment implicitly confirms UK troops are operating on the ground in Ukraine — albeit in limited, non-combat roles — which may shape public debate about the nature and extent of Western involvement.  

In these fraught times, the human cost — like that of Lance Corporal Hooley — reminds us of the many unseen sacrifices made in efforts to defend freedom and democratic values.

A Final Tribute

To George Hooley — we say thank you. Thank you for your service, your courage, and your commitment.

Attached is a news article regarding a uk British soldier killed in Ukraine 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4gpkr83p73o.amp

Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley 


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