Bomb disposal expert killed in Ukraine 'died a hero'

A specialist for Isle of Man -BombengorgeSpecition specialist who was killed during the volunteer work in Ukraine was described as “hero” who saved “countless life”.

Chris Garrett died after he was involved in an incident near Izyum in the east of the country on Tuesday.

The 40-year-old, who had been working on mines since 2014 and trained Ukrainian troops, had shared a humanitarian and min-clearance accommodation called Prevail together with his partner Courtney.

Board member Shaun Pinnner said Mr. Garrett's “Erbe” would continue through the work of the charity and he would be “like a talisman” for the organization.

He praised Mr. Garrett, who was known to his friends as “Swampy” and leaves a young daughter because he deletes around 5,000 to 6,000 tons of land mines during his time in the war -bound country.

He was a “very disciplined and motivated person” who “loved talking to people and finding new friends,” said Pinnner.

Death was “losing like a family member,” he added.

“He did one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. He will be missing immensely.”

Mr. Garrett from the city of Manx Town of Peel had previously volunteered in Burma.

In Ukraine, he also helped with civilian evacuation and procurement of humanitarian care.

Karolina Davison from the Manx Support for Ukraine Charity said that Mr. Garrett was “a hero” and one of the “most modest and selfless” people who knew her.

It was “a big loss” and he would “always be remembered,” she said.

In a declaration by the board of trustees of the charity, Mr. Garrett's “unshakable courage, deep humility and relentless drive embodied the spirit of humanitarian service”.

“Chris' legacy is persistent in every life that was saved in every mine, and in every act of humanitarian compassion that was inspired by his example.

“They showed us how to lead with heart and we will honor that every day.”

Alfred Canannan, Prime Minister of the Isle of Man, said that he was “shocked and deeply sad about the news”, and Mr. Garrett's “heroic, selfless and tireless work” had “undoubtedly loosened a lot and suffering”.