Scots D-Day hero died after choking on full English breakfast in veterans’ care home

Scots D-Day Hero Chokes on Breakfast and Dies in Veterans’ Care Home

Frederick Temple, a Scottish D-Day hero, tragically passed away after choking on a full English breakfast at a care home for veterans in Portsmouth. The 97-year-old war veteran, who was one of the last survivors of the Normandy beach landings in 1944, was enjoying one of his favourite meals when the incident occurred. Despite efforts to assist him, Frederick succumbed to the choking incident in August 2023.

Leading up to his death, Frederick had shown signs of regression to his military days, frequently asking for the “captain of the ship.” Described as a determined and stubborn individual, he had dedicated 22 years of his life to serving his country as a Royal Marine. The inquest into his death revealed that dementia likely played a role in the choking incident.

Born in Glasgow in 1925, Frederick had a remarkable military career, serving as a Coxwain and participating in the Normandy landings with the Royal Marines. The coroner’s report indicated that Frederick died at the Admiral Jellicoe House in Southsea, a care home offering luxury later life care for Royal Navy and Royal Marine veterans.

Despite the tragic circumstances of his passing, Frederick’s family and the care home staff shared fond memories of him. His son, David Harvey, recalled his father as a proud and independent man who struggled to ask for help. The care home manager, Jade Delaney, highlighted the challenges of managing Frederick’s dementia-related behaviours but praised the staff’s efforts to support him.

The inquest detailed the events leading to Frederick’s death, noting that he had previously experienced a choking incident. On the day of his passing, Frederick choked on a piece of sausage during breakfast, leading to a swift and unrecoverable situation. The coroner concluded that dementia likely contributed to his inability to swallow properly, resulting in the accidental death.

In his final moments, Frederick Temple, a respected war veteran and beloved family member, left a lasting impact on those who knew him. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals like him in service to their country and the challenges they may face in their later years.

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In reflecting on Frederick Temple’s story, it serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact and sacrifices made by veterans. Despite his valiant service during World War II, Frederick’s later years were marked by the challenges of dementia and the complexities of ageing. The care and dedication shown by the staff at the veterans’ home highlight the importance of providing tailored support for individuals like Frederick as they navigate their twilight years. The story of Frederick Temple is not just one of loss but also of honouring a life lived to the fullest in service of his country.