The British aid workers killed in the Israeli air strike in Gaza will be remembered as “heroes”, their families have said.
John Chapman, 57, and James Kirby, 47, were among seven World Central Kitchen (WCK) aid workers killed in strikes by the Israel Defense Forces on Monday.
The pair worked in the charity’s security team and died alongside fellow British military veteran James “Jim” Henderson, 33.
The family of Mr Chapman, who is believed to have been a former marine and father-of-two from Dorset, said he “will forever be a hero” and died “trying to help people”.
In a statement issued through the Foreign Office, they said: “We are devastated to have lost John, who was killed in Gaza.
“He died trying to help people and was subject to an inhumane act. He was an incredible father, husband, son and brother.
“We request we be given space and time to grieve appropriately.
“He was loved by many and will forever be a hero. He will be missed dearly”.
The family of Mr Kirby, a former Army sniper marksman, said he was a “genuine gentleman” who was “always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone”.
They told the BBC: “Alongside the other six individuals who tragically lost their lives, he will be remembered as a hero.
“James understood the dangers of venturing into Gaza, drawing from his experiences in the British armed forces, where he bravely served tours in Bosnia and Afghanistan.
“Despite the risks, his compassionate nature drove him to offer assistance to those in dire need.
“James lost his life trying to save others, he will never know what a void he has left, our family will never be the same.”
They added they are “incredibly proud of who James was and what he achieved”.