The former head of the Royal Marines, Major General Matthew Holmes, died by suicide after experiencing “substantial stress”, an inquest into his death has concluded.

Major General Holmes was found dead in Winchester, Hampshire, on 2 October, 2021.

He served in Afghanistan, Iraq, Kosovo and Northern Ireland for more than three decades in the armed forces.

He also commanded 42 Commando Royal Marines from 2006 to 2008 and was appointed as a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order for his leadership on operations in Afghanistan in 2007.

From 2019 to 2021 he was Commandant General Royal Marines and was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2019.

The father-of-two was also awarded a CBE in 2019 and has been described as “one of our most senior and highly decorated Royal Marines”.

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected] in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK

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