James Henderson
Killed in an airstrike while on a humanitarian aid mission
James Henderson was killed on April 1, 2024, during an Israeli airstrike in Gaza that struck a convoy of humanitarian workers shortly after they had unloaded more than 100 tonnes of food aid. He was one of seven aid workers killed in the attack. According to World Central Kitchen, the strike occurred despite the convoy following approved routes and safety procedures. The Israeli military later described the incident as a “grave mistake” and issued an apology.
Biography
James Henderson was a 33-year-old British aid worker and former Royal Marine from Cornwall who dedicated his life to service, security, and humanitarian work. Born in Truro and raised in Penryn, he served six years in the Royal Marines before transitioning into private security and later humanitarian operations. At the time of his death, he was working as a security adviser for Solace Global, supporting aid convoys delivering food relief in Gaza. Known by family and friends as disciplined, compassionate, and deeply committed to the safety of others, Henderson was killed during an Israeli airstrike while assisting humanitarian efforts. His death left a lasting impact on his family, fiancée, and community, who continue to honor his memory.
James Henderson was born in Truro, Cornwall, and grew up in the nearby town of Penryn. He served for six years in the Royal Marines, a period that shaped his character, discipline, and sense of responsibility toward others. After leaving the military, he worked with private security firms and later joined Solace Global, where he applied his expertise to humanitarian missions in conflict zones.
In Gaza, Henderson served as part of a relief team’s security detail, ensuring aid convoys followed strict safety protocols and remained on approved routes. His work supported food deliveries for World Central Kitchen, which was providing critical assistance to civilians amid the war.
Outside of his professional life, Henderson was a passionate boxer and a committed member of Falmouth and Penryn Boxing Club. Boxing was central to his identity, providing fitness, competition, and community. Following his death, his friends honored him by naming a gym and a boxing ring after him — a lasting tribute to his dedication and spirit.
He was described by those close to him as someone who gave his whole heart to everything he did. His loss has been deeply felt by his family, fiancée, friends, and the wider Cornwall community.
Pleas of Surviving Relatives and Family if any
His fiancée, Jacqui Henderson, expressed a strong desire to keep his memory alive and encouraged open conversation about him:
“We never want people to feel uncomfortable about talking about Jim… that’s keeping Jim’s memory alive.”
His mother, Trish Henderson, described the year following his death as “extremely difficult.”
His father, Neil Henderson, emphasized legacy and remembrance, stating that the boxing club tribute ensures James “won’t be forgotten.”
The family planned to mark the anniversary by remembering him together, honoring both his life and the joy he brought to others.
Sources & References
The family of an aid worker from Cornwall who was killed in an air strike in Gaza have paid tribute to him on the first anniversary of his death. Former Royal Marine James Henderson, 33, who grew up in Penryn, was among seven aid workers who died in the Israeli strike on 1 April 2024.1 bbc.com Open source