Eric Thomas Chong Vargas of Bowie, MD died November 15, 2023 while serving with the Ukrainian International Legion. Eric enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served with honor. When Russia invaded Ukraine, he joined the Ukrainian International Legion to fight for the things he believed in - democracy and truth, and he fought against tyranny and corruption. Eric was a leader, brave and kind; a writer, philosopher and poet. He leaves behind many grieving hearts at home and in his beloved Ukrainian International Legion.

Eric said once: “The West, for the last 20 years, didn’t have anything really good to fight for. So, beyond any practical concern, there’s the idea that these are the values we should we believe in, that we should defend, that we should have democracy and we should have freedom for everyone. It works on every single level. Are we investing too much? The amount we are investing is worth every penny and you can look at yourself in the mirror. Nothing tops that! We should have freedom, we should have democracy for everyone. What? What else is there in life but to fight for what you believe in?”

His memory lives on here, and in our hearts. Please take the time and watch this incredible video tribute to Eric. He was renowned for his humor, love for his brothers in arms, and his deep belief in the work he was doing.

Memorial contributions made to the R.T. Weatherman Foundation via this page will be utilized to support the medical evacuation of Americans wounded in Ukraine and the repatriation of Americans killed in action.

In Honor and Memory of Eric Vargas

Hero of Ukraine