A BRITISH soldier training Ukrainian forces to fight against Russia has been tragically killed in a military exercise.
Special operations expert Corporal Chris Gill, 35, died on a night-time exercise with his Ranger Regiment on the Brecon Beacons mountains on October 16.
Police are investigating the tragedy along with health and safety officials at the remote base in Powys, Wales, used for military training including SAS units and firing with live ammunition.
Military officials are not revealing exactly how he died at the Cwrt-y-Gollen training base nor if Ukrainian forces were involved in the exercise.
His commanding officer described him as “a remarkable Army Special Operations soldier” who had served in Afghanistan before volunteering to train Ukrainian soldiers.
The Army confirmed the corporal – known as “Gilly” – died in a “non-operational incident” with the 4th Battalion, The Ranger Regiment at the Brecon training grounds.
Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed it is investigating the death “during a military exercise in the Crickhowell area of Powys”.
A spokesperson said: “Police were notified at just after 1am on Wednesday, October 16 2024, and a joint investigation is underway supported by the Health and Safety Executive.
“Our thoughts are with Cpl Gill’s family, who are being supported by a family liaison officer.”
His battalion of 250 soldiers is based at Normandy Barracks in Aldershot as an Army Special Operations Brigade.
Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Charles Bairsto said: “Cpl Chris “Gilly” Gill was a remarkable Army Special Operations soldier.
“A strong and natural leader, he truly lived the Ranger ethos.
“Dedicated to his family, Cpl Gill’s professionalism and commitment to service inspired those around him and left him held in the highest regard.
“He excelled throughout his thirteen years’ service. A chosen man who will be sorely missed.”
Married father Cpl Gill joined the army in 2011.
Lt Col Bairsto said: “From the start his initiative, soldiering skill and honest manner highlighted him as a future leader.
“He flourished deploying to Helmand Province on Operation Herrick 18, bravely contributing to the security of the local population on a tough, hard-fought tour.
“Promptly selected to attend the Section Commanders’ Battle Course, he excelled in honing his skills in an arduous and taxing environment, developing his leadership under pressure.
“His talent quickly led to promotion to Corporal.
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“He deployed soon after to Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan, where leading a small, close-knit team, he delivered training to specialist partners.
“His professionalism again earmarked him for further commitments going on to partner local forces in Belize, the US, Kenya and Morocco.
“Throughout, his assured approach, knowledge and humour won the respect and loyalty of partnered forces, making him a remarkably successful instructor.
“His relentless, quick wit became central to the morale of the teams he led. In the face of adversity, he could always be relied upon to get everyone chuckling no matter the situation.”
Cpl Gill volunteered for Army Special Operations and passed to join The Ranger Regiment where “his talents and dedication made an enormous difference.”
Lt Col Bairsto said said: “Training and operating overseas, his contribution to persistent operations abroad set crucial foundations for the development of the Battalion’s capabilities and culture.
“Selfless and dedicated, Cpl Gill was quick to volunteer to train Ukrainian soldiers in the UK, testament to his commitment to service and preservation of our freedoms.”
His commanding officer said: “The death of Cpl Gill is sorely felt. His family have lost a loving and doting father, husband, and son.
“His friends and fellow Rangers will miss a much-loved and respected leader.
“The Army has lost a professional, capable, and loyal Special Operations soldier, whose contribution to the team made it much stronger than the sum of its parts; he made a real impact throughout his distinguished career.
“Our thoughts are with his family at this incredibly difficult time.”
An inquest is due to be opened by the South Wales coroner’s office in Pontypridd next week.”
