An Australian killed fighting for the Kurds against Islamic State in northern Syria - and thought to be the first Westerner to die in battle against IS – has been identified as 28 year-old Ashley Kent Johnston.
Johnston, born in Maryborough, Queensland, is believed to have been a resident of the ACT before joining the fight against IS in Syria and Iraqi Kurdistan.
Australian Kurdish Association president Gulfer Olan confirmed Johnston had died in the fighting and said she was trying to contact Johnston's family to pass on the Kurdish community's condolences.
Fairfax Media has obtained an image of Johnston's passport from Australian Kurdish representatives. and they confirmed he is the dead man. He was born on April 15, 1986.
Olan said: "He was a hero. He went all the way from here to fight for humanity. We will have him in our hearts forever."
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This was done for this Nation at one time
ReplyDeleteYes, a long time ago.
DeleteA hero who should be celebrated with song and story; unfortunately few will hear is courageous story.
ReplyDeleteYes, on the Internet only, I assume.
DeleteI repeat. Anyone helping the Peshmerga fighters is my hero. And so are you for telling us about it.
ReplyDeleteYou are the one who sent me the picture of the female fighter, as I remember.
DeleteI put it on as screensaver from time to time. A modern Joan of Arc. I'd follow her anywhere. Heh.
ReplyDelete