Former Australian Army soldier Sage O’Donnell killed fighting in Ukraine

A former Australian Army serviceman who flew to Ukraine to help defend the country in its war against Russia has been killed in action.

A Victorian man who flew to Ukraine to help defend the country in its war against Russia has been killed in action.

Former Australian Army serviceman Sage O’Donnell, 24, reportedly died in the days leading up to Christmas.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed Mr O’Donnell’s death alongside a statement from his heartbroken mother.

She said her son “died in action defending the freedom of the Ukrainian people.”

“He has always believed in defending country, people and the right for freedom.

“Sage chose to take action based on his empathy for the Ukrainian people, and the injustice that is taking place.

“He fell in love with Ukraine and its culture and was humbled by the kindness and hospitality within his new community,” his unamed mother said.

Sage O'Donnell was killed in action while fighting in Ukraine. Picture: Supplied

According to Mr O’Donnell’s LinkedIn, he enlisted in the Australian Army in 2015 as a part-time Rifleman before becoming an Artillery Observer up until February 2021.

He described himself as “a young Australian with experience in a multitude of disciplines seeking to create a future in a public service role.”

Under education, Mr O’Donnell stated he was a “Coburg senior” in 2016.
The Herald Sun understands most recently he trained in crowd controller and security work.

Sage O'Donnell died fighting in the war between Ukraine and Russia. Picture: supplied

Mr O’Donnell’s mother said her son “passionately upheld his values and served here in his own country and most recently in Ukraine.”

“Sage chose to live his life true to his beliefs and cause.”

“Sage was much loved by his friends and family. Sage’s humour, kind heart, values and laughter will be dearly missed. We are devastated by our recent loss of Sage,” she said.

DFAT confirmed it was providing consular assistance to the man’s family.

Originally published as Former Australian Army soldier Sage O’Donnell killed fighting in Ukraine