An Australian soldier volunteering as a combat medic in Ukraine has been killed in action, according to a close family member who confirmed his death to The Australian. The soldier, known by the nickname 'Mozzie,' was serving with the Ukrainian International Legion's Med Team Alpha when he died on Friday.
A friend described Mozzie as "the bravest soldier I have ever known" and a combat medic who "pulled countless people back from the edge" and "took out multiple enemies." This friend recounted an incident where Mozzie reportedly killed six enemy troops after they opened fire, killing his team leader and best friend. The friend stated that Mozzie attempted to keep his team leader alive until evacuation arrived.
Mozzie had previously served in the Australian Army, including deployments to Papua New Guinea with the Townsville-based 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. He was a member of the unit's Heavy Weapons Platoon.
Phil Thompson, the shadow minister for defence personnel, paid tribute to Mozzie on social media, calling him a respected comrade. "Through his courage, skill and selfless commitment to others, Mozzie saved countless lives on the battlefield," Thompson wrote. "He was the kind of bloke who never hesitated to put others before himself."
While in Ukraine, Mozzie gained a significant following on Instagram, where he shared his experiences as a frontline combatant.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has not officially confirmed the death but is reportedly making inquiries with Ukrainian authorities.
According to Ukraine's military ombudsman, approximately 16,000 foreign volunteers from over 70 countries are serving with Ukrainian forces. This incident follows the deaths of at least 14 other Australians, including former ADF soldier Samuel Pedrazzini, who have been killed fighting in Ukraine. Another Australian, former Melbourne schoolteacher Oscar Jenkins, was sentenced to 13 years in prison by a Russian court after being captured while fighting for Ukraine.
The Australian government has consistently advised its citizens against traveling to active war zones in Ukraine.