A former British Army sniper, Alexander Garms-Rizzi, has tragically lost his life in Ukraine after sacrificing himself to protect his comrades during a fierce battle with Russian forces.

The 23-year-old, who had previously served with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, placed himself in harm’s way to divert enemy fire and allow three fellow Ukrainian soldiers to reach safety.

Heroic Act of Sacrifice

Garms-Rizzi’s courageous actions took place in a dangerous area known as “no man’s land” between the Russian and Ukrainian frontlines.

After three soldiers managed to find shelter in a bunker, one of them sustained a serious injury.

Despite the danger, Garms-Rizzi ran in circles to draw the attention of a Russian drone, hoping to distract it long enough for his comrades to escape.

Sadly, he was struck by the drone and killed instantly.

His fellow troops and commanders have hailed Garms-Rizzi as a hero, with his best friend, a Finnish volunteer known as “Finn,” describing him as someone “born a fighter” who died honorably while helping others.

The British sniper’s bravery has led to discussions about posthumously awarding him a bravery medal.

From British Soldier to Ukrainian Fighter

Before his tragic end, Garms-Rizzi had a controversial journey to the frontlines of Ukraine.

In March 2022, during a NATO exercise in Estonia, he went AWOL and joined Ukrainian forces, feeling compelled to fight in the ongoing conflict.

His decision to leave was a dramatic one, and he communicated his intent to join pro-Ukrainian forces, even sending a message to his unit.

After two months, he returned to the UK and faced a court martial for defying orders, resulting in a year-long prison sentence.

His actions sparked a diplomatic row, especially after former Foreign Secretary Liz Truss voiced support for British citizens who chose to join the Ukrainian resistance.

Despite the controversy surrounding his decision to fight in Ukraine, Garms-Rizzi’s commitment to the cause remained strong.

After serving his sentence, he returned to the Ukrainian trenches, continuing his work as a sniper and supporting the troops around him.

His commander described him as a “very brave” soldier, and his actions on the day of his death were praised as a selfless act of heroism.

Final Moments and the Search for His Body

On the day Garms-Rizzi was killed, his comrades were trapped in a collapsed dugout.

As the drone targeted the area, Garms-Rizzi attempted to distract it, allowing his fellow soldiers to make their way to a safer bunker.

While two of his comrades survived without injury, one was seriously wounded. Tragically, Garms-Rizzi did not make it.

Afterward, drones were used to search for his body, but it remains too dangerous to retrieve.

According to his commander, Garms-Rizzi was only about 100 meters from safety when the fatal strike occurred.

A Legacy of Courage and Loyalty

Garms-Rizzi’s sacrifice has left a profound impact on those who knew him.

His bravery and commitment to the cause are remembered by his fellow soldiers, who were deeply affected by the loss of a courageous and well-liked comrade.

His actions on the battlefield, particularly his decision to give his life for others, have solidified his place as a hero in the eyes of those who fought alongside him.

As Garms-Rizzi’s story continues to unfold, many are remembering the young man who left behind his life in the British Army to fight for Ukraine, defying orders and risking everything for the people he cared about.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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