Laurence Dollimore
A SPANISH hero who tried to defend a woman from a London terrorist last week has been honoured by Spain posthumously.
Ignacio Echeverria’s home country has awarded him the Grand Cross of the Order of Civil Merit for his bravery.
The 39-year-old, who worked for HSBC in the UK capital, is said to have tried to defend a woman from one of the terrorists with his skateboard in Borough Market.
He was last seen lying on the pavement and became one of the eight killed when his death was confirmed on Wednesday.
Spanish prime minister Mariano Rajoy praised Echeverria, from Madrid, for his ‘heroic and exemplary act’ and recommended him for the award.
The foreign ministry said: “His bravery in standing up for a defenceless person is a reminder of the need to remain united in the face of the scourge of terrorism.”
Friend of Echeverria, Guillermo Sanchez, said they had been walking to dinner from the nearby skatepark when they happened upon the attack.
They saw a woman being assaulted while a police officer had fallen to the ground.
“I’m focusing on her and then, suddenly, I see that Ignacio’s there, starting to hit the attacker with his skateboard.”
He was soon set upon by the terrorists and fell to the ground.
His friends managed to get away.
His hometown Las Rozas held a vigil on Thursday after his body was confirmed the day before.
Ignacio Echeverria lost his life while trying to save the life of another and it is right that he should receive this honour. It’s a tragic waste of life but I hope his family and friends get some comfort from his bravery award. What a pity is has to be awarded posthumously.
Sincere condolences from a British citizen.
To Jane g.:dying while commiting an act of bravery is the noblest & most selfless of moments in a person’s life……..there are few, if any other acts in a human’s existence that can immemorialize one’s life as much…….????????????????????
To Jane g.:dying while commiting an act of bravery is the noblest & most selfless of moments in a person’s life……..there are few, if any other acts in a human’s existence that can immemorialize one’s life as much…….????????????????????