Former Marine Becomes First American To Die Fighting In Ukraine

ORANGE COUNTY, NY — A 22-year-old former United States Marine, who was originally from Orange County, has been killed while fighting Russian forces in Ukraine.

The family of Willy Joseph Cancel said he was working with a private military contractor when he was killed Monday, CNN reported.

Cancel's mother said he had signed up to work with the contracting company in addition to his full-time corrections officer job in Tennessee before Ukraine was invaded by Russia on Feb 24.

Orange County Executive Stephen Neuhaus said he was saddened to learn about Cancel's death.

"Willy arrived in Ukraine via Poland in mid-March and wanted to go because he believed in what Ukrainians were fighting for," he said, "and wanted to be a part of it."

Neuhaus, who is currently serving on active duty in Europe as part of the U.S. response to the invasion, said the 22-year-old left behind a wife and a 7-month-old baby.

"We will never forget Willy's bravery and sacrifice," he said. "Orange County's thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time."

Cancel is the first U.S. citizen to have died while fighting in Ukraine, according to Spectrum News.

His mother, Rebecca Cancel, said the body of her son has not been found.

The U.S. Department of State said through an official that it was aware of the reports of Cancel's death and is monitoring the situation, ABC News reported. The state department declined further comment citing privacy considerations.