Ukrainians here to mark death of ‘hero’
THE young Irishman who was killed defending Ukraine last week will receive a hero’s welcome from Ukrainians in Ireland when his remains are brought home.
Co. Louth resident Stanislav Lepko, who returned from fighting to defend his homeland in May, said he and other Ukrainians who served as volunteer soldiers are planning to attend the funeral of 23-year-old Rory Mason if they receive his family’s blessing.
Mr Mason’s death was announced this week by the International Legion for the Defence of Ukraine – the military branch responsible for non-Ukrainians who have joined the war effort.
The young man, from Dunboyne, Co. Meath, died taking part in a counteroffensive mission in Kharkiv.
Meanwhile, Brain Meagher, another Co. Meath man who went to defend Ukraine, returned to Ireland on Friday night.
The father-of-two, 35, had spent the previous two weeks in hospital after being badly wounded by a landmine and gunfire and admitted he was ‘lucky to be alive’.