Mothers demand justice after soldier deaths in army vehicle accidents

The tragic deaths of soldiers in army vehicle accidents have sparked outrage among their families, particularly mothers who are demanding accountability from the Ministry of Defence. Vivienne George, mother of Second Lieutenant Max George, expressed her devastation over her son's death during a 2022 training exercise on Salisbury Plain, attributing it to a known fault in the vehicle that had been reported for repair since 2018. She emphasized that the vehicle should not have been operational, highlighting a failure in duty that cost her son his future. Max George, a highly accomplished individual with degrees from Newcastle University and the University of Glasgow, was remembered fondly by friends and colleagues for his professionalism and impact on those around him. His mother shared that his friends have inscribed “What would Max do” inside their helmets, a testament to his inspiring character. The service inquiry report into his death left many questions unanswered, particularly regarding why the faulty vehicle was still in use. Another mother, Moira, recounted the heartbreaking loss of her son Jethro, who died in a Scimitar vehicle accident during an exercise in October 2021. Jethro was not properly trained to drive the vehicle, raising concerns about safety protocols within the army. Moira criticized the misleading information she received from a Ministry of Defence official shortly after the tragedy, which added to her grief and confusion. Both mothers are united in their call for improved safety measures and accountability within the armed forces, emphasizing the need for their sons and fellow soldiers to be safe while performing their duties. They seek justice not only for their sons but also for the future safety of all soldiers.