The Hardy family from Outlook is grappling with the tragic loss of 41-year-old Winton 'Bud' Hardy, who was killed in the line of duty while serving with the International Legion in Ukraine.
Bud had been working as a combat medic in the Donetsk region for several weeks. His family maintained frequent contact with him until a few days before they received the devastating news of his death on June 10th, delivered by Canadian officials. His brother Will expressed the family's shock, stating, "It came as an utter shock."
Bud and Will shared a unique bond, being born on the same day exactly one year apart. Will described their relationship as being "like twins," and they enjoyed a happy childhood together as best friends.
From a young age, Bud was passionate about the military. He spent his childhood in Army Cadets, excelling to the point of being in the top three cadets in all of Canada. This achievement earned him an all-expense-paid trip to Germany at the age of 17 to train with the German forces. Will noted that it was characteristic of Bud to stand up and help, recalling his brother's words before leaving for Ukraine: "If people don't help, then what is democracy in this world?"
The family was concerned for Bud's safety and kept in contact with him almost daily. The brothers lived together before Bud's departure for Ukraine, making it even harder for Will to see him go and put himself in danger to help others. "He's my brother and my best friend. Literally the only person in this whole world I trust," Will said. Despite his reservations, Will has immense respect for Bud's decision. "To walk into what I could imagine being most people's worst nightmare, and to do it just wanting to help, that is more than being a hero to me. And for him to do it for another country, not even his own."
Tragically, Bud and another Canadian were killed instantly by a direct hit from a Russian drone while retreating from heavy enemy fire. While his comrade's remains were retrieved, Bud's body remains behind enemy lines, and the family has been told it is unlikely he will ever make the final journey home.
The Canadian government has advised its citizens not to travel to Ukraine and has restrictions in place to prevent Canadians from fighting for another nation. The Foreign Enlistment Act of 1937 restricts Canadians from fighting in wars that do not directly involve Canada and bans fighting for countries considered friendly. As a result, those joining the International Legion may not receive assistance from the Canadian government. The Hardy family has been informed there will be no death benefits, and any expenses related to retrieving Bud's remains and returning them to Canada will not be covered. It would be up to the Ukrainian government to do so if Bud's remains are ever found.
Will says he understands more than his mom why his brother cannot be returned home at this time. The family hopes to set a memorial up at the Outlook cemetery next to the boys' father so in a way Bud can be reunited with his family resting next to the man who helped shape him into the hero he is today.
Will says he "doesn't want to see his brother forgotten about. Bud was truly something special. He's a hero to me, and a hero to everyone in this town. Just an inspiration to all of us."
To help the family with memorial and legal expenses, a friend has set up a GoFundMe page to support them during this time of uncertainty.
