Kathrine Frich
Burgess was honoured with a funeral at Kyiv’s main crematorium.
Burgess was honoured with a funeral at Kyiv’s main crematorium.
British Hero Falls on Ukrainian Frontline
Ben “Budgie” Burgess, a 33-year-old ex-British Army soldier from Portsmouth, has been killed while fighting Russian forces in Ukraine.
He had served on the frontline for three years, deeply committed to Ukraine’s fight for independence.
A Belief That Drove Him to War
According to his comrade, known by the call sign Azrael, Burgess wasn’t in Ukraine for adventure or recognition, he believed in the cause.
“Budgie came for the belief that Ukraine deserves to be free,” Azrael told the Kyiv Post. “And he was willing to fight for that.”
A Final Goodbye in Kyiv
Burgess was honoured with a funeral at Kyiv’s main crematorium, attended by 40 mourners including fellow soldiers, friends, and family.
Ukraine’s national anthem echoed through the hall as tributes poured in for the fallen Brit.
Sunflowers and Tears at the Coffin
Mourners were visibly emotional as they hugged the coffin, which was draped in British and Ukrainian flags.
Sunflowers and roses were gently placed atop it, a heartfelt farewell to a man remembered as both a soldier and a friend.
A Life Lost in Sumy’s Fierce Battles
Burgess was reportedly killed in Andreevka, Sumy region, an area where Russian forces have recently intensified attacks.
His death shows the continued risks foreign volunteers face on the frontlines.
A Journey Through Ukraine’s War Zones
He began his service in Zaporizhzhia with the artillery, later moving to medevac missions in Donetsk. Eventually, he found his calling as a drone pilot, an area where he became known for his skill and precision.
One of the Best, Says Comrade
“He was among the best pilots we had,” said Azrael. Burgess operated FPV (first-person view) drones and became obsessed with perfecting the craft, contributing crucial intelligence and strike capability to Ukraine’s forces.
More Than a Comrade, A Brother
Azrael added that he and Burgess were the last two foreign fighters left in their regiment.
“He was my family here,” he said. “I’ve lost many friends in this war, but he’s my biggest loss.”
Tributes from the Heart of Kyiv
In Maidan Square, Kyiv’s symbolic centre, a small memorial emerged. Handwritten notes read: “Thank you for protecting” and “Love you brother, until we meet again.”
Burgess left behind not only a girlfriend in Odesa but a legacy of loyalty and courage.
