Circumstances of the death of Major General Matthew Holmes, 54, are under investigation, the Ministry of Defense (MoD) said today. He was found dead Saturday and his colleagues have called the man since “one of our oldest and most decorated Royal Marines “.
Major General Holmes – who had served in Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan – served as the Commanding General of the Royal Marines from 2019 until April of this year. Major Holmes, who also received a CBE in 2019, helped transport the Duke of Edinburgh’s coffin to Windsor Castle in April, Plymouth Live reports.
Admiral First Sea Lord Sir Tony Radakin said he was “deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death” of his friend.
“We mourn the loss of one of our oldest and most decorated Royal Marines; a dedicated former Commander General who had served the nation, the Royal Navy and its beloved corps with distinction for 33 years,” a- he said today.
“Matt was also a dear friend to many and a close friend of mine for over 20 years. He will be sadly missed by the Service and especially by the Corps family.
“But my thoughts, my prayers, and my deepest sympathy are with Matt’s family.
“Their loss is the greatest and the most painful: we will be there for them now and always.”
Major Holmes, who earned a master’s degree in defense studies from King’s College London, commanded the 42nd Commando from 2006-2008.
And he was named a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order for his leadership in operations in Afghanistan in 2007.
Lieutenant General Rob Magowan, who succeeded Major General Holmes as the head of the Royal Marines, said: “My hearts are with him and his family.
“We will honor him and all of his loved ones.”
He added: “It doesn’t matter that he’s a general, but that he’s a Royal Marine.
“I remember him and celebrate him, alongside everyone he’s with now. We’re one family, together, just as we learned and trained, side by side at the Commando Training Center. . Once a Marine, always a Marine. “
The Department of Defense said its thoughts, sympathy and deepest condolences are with the family and friends of Major General Holmes.
A spokesperson called for their privacy to be respected.
More about this article: Read More
Source: feedproxy.google.com
This notice was published: 2021-10-04 10:18:00
