Recently, two American volunteers lost their lives battling Russian soldiers in Ukraine. The Daily Beast has confirmation from the State Department that it is in contact with the families of two recently deceased citizens.

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Who were Edward Wilton and Grady Kurpasi?

Edward Wilton and Grady Kurpasi were the American soldiers who had volunteered to defend Ukraine against Russian forces before being killed. They died in combat during a conflict in Ukraine.

According to his half-brother Parker Cummings, Wilton, 22, was killed on April 7 while fighting in Bakhmut. His hometown was Marianna, Florida. As stated by Cummings, Wilton fought in the US Army and sent a message to his half-brother while flying to Poland, informing him of his intentions to fight in Ukraine.

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“My brother was very selfless. My brother was very honorable and traditional,” Cummings told ABC News. “He cared more about freedom for all than for his own safety. Edward was a true hero and he will be missed until we see him again.”

Grady Kurpasi, a Marine veteran, also died while fighting for Ukraine against Russian forces, according to a GoFundMe page that seems to be created on his family’s account.

Kurpasi was apparently last seen in April 2022, and his disappearance came to light in June. It’s unclear exactly when he was pronounced dead or if he had ever been admitted to a hospital, but his family claimed they thought he was in critical condition in a Donetsk hospital under Russian control.

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“Grady went to train soldiers but due to the intensity of the war and the need for combat-experienced leaders, Grady ended up leading a squad into battle and was killed in action,” the fundraising page now reads.

The State Department has been in touch with the families of both brave volunteers and has been providing all appropriate consular services to family members.