September 4, 2022
An East Nanango family is mourning the death of their son, killed late last month by Russian forces in Ukraine.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has confirmed the death of Jed William Danahay, 27.
A statement issued by the family at the weekend said Jed was killed on August 24 near the town of Izyum in Eastern Ukraine.
Izyum is about 120 kilometres south-east of Kharkiv.
“Jed had had been working as a combat medic to assist frontline troops and the population when they were injured or required assistance,” the family told southburnett.com.au
“At the time of his death, Jed was driving a medical vehicle when he was targeted by Russian forces.
“Jed lived his life trying to help other people.
“In his short time on this earth Jed did more things than most of us will ever do in a lifetime.
“He dog-sledded in the Artic Circle under the northern lights, he journeyed through Europe and saw North America. He spent time in Egypt and Lebanon.
“Jed had friends across the globe and will be sorely missed.
“He died doing what he believed in, helping people who needed it.
“He was at his heart an optimist and always believed that things should be better.
“Jed’s comrades in Ukraine described him as the backbone of their unit, a hero and someone who they could all trust their lives to.”
Jed is survived by his parents and two older brothers.
“He will be missed dearly by his friends and family,” the family said.
“We would appreciate during this hard time if the media respected our privacy and if anyone wants to help we encourage them to support the Ukrainian people.”
A spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said officials were providing consular assistance to the family.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family and request their privacy be respected during this difficult time,” the spokesperson said.
