A British paratrooper tragically killed in Ukraine has been repatriated to the UK in a poignant homecoming. Lance Corporal George Hooley, 28, was brought back to RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire following his recent passing. The repatriation ceremony, attended only by family members, was held before the departure of the cortege, which passed through Carterton’s memorial garden en route to the NHS John Radcliffe Hospital.
L/Cpl Hooley, slated for promotion to corporal next month, lost his life while observing Ukrainian forces testing new defensive capabilities. Known as the “glue” and the source of laughter within his unit, he was praised for his kindness and ability to connect with everyone. His company commander lauded his exceptional energy, enthusiasm, and genuine care for others.
During Prime Minister’s Questions, Keir Starmer hailed L/Cpl Hooley for his courageous and determined life of service around the world, including in Ukraine. The presence of a few British military personnel in Ukraine, primarily engaged in diplomatic security and aiding Ukrainian armed forces, had not been publicly disclosed before.
The Parachute Regiment, an airborne infantry regiment of the British Army, is primarily stationed at Merville Barracks in Colchester. Lance Corporal George Hooley, aged 28, met a tragic end in Ukraine last week, with an RAF aircraft transporting his remains to Brize Norton in Oxfordshire later that day. A private family ceremony preceded the cortege’s departure, which passed by Carterton’s memorial garden before reaching the John Radcliffe Hospital. As per tradition, military honors were observed during the repatriation ceremony. Keir Starmer’s words at Prime Minister’s Questions paid tribute to Hooley’s courage and dedication, highlighting his service across various global missions. The procession, escorted by police, saw the body of Lance Corporal George Hooley pass through Carterton’s Memorial Garden in Oxfordshire, where onlookers paid their respects. Due for a promotion to corporal in the upcoming month, Hooley had previously served in Afghanistan, Africa, and eastern Europe.