Coronavirus: Nine Veterans Die At Royal Hospital Chelsea

The Royal Hospital Chelsea says it has lost nine of its residents to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The retirement home for British veterans says five of the deaths occurred in the home, while four died while receiving hospital treatment. 

A total of 58 of its residents have recovered after either testing positive or showing symptoms of the disease.

In a statement General Sir Adrian Bradshaw, governor of the Royal Hospital Chelsea said: "Most of our Pensioners have risked their lives serving our nation through war and conflict somewhere in the world, just as our NHS staff and care workers are providing vital and sometimes dangerous service to the nation here at home during this COVID crisis.

"We salute all those working in the health and care sectors at this time and we understand only too well the difficulties that they face," he added.

The news comes as the country remembers VE day and honours all those who served in the Second World War.

"We will reflect on the debt that we owe to those who served the nation in every capacity during the Second World War in Europe," General Bradshaw said.

"Especially, as we are a home for veterans, we will remember those who were in our armed forces, several of whom are living here in the Royal Hospital."

He said the veterans will enjoy some "internal, socially-distant events" but these will be "against the backdrop of the recent losses we have suffered".

One of the victims was 75-year-old Fred Boomer-Hawkins, who passed away on 1 April.

Mr Hawkins spent 20 years with the Royal Green Jackets infantry regiment and became a Chelsea Pensioner in 2017.

In a tribute on Facebook, his son Terry Hawkins said: "Today I leave a post for all of you who knew my dad, a Chelsea Pensioner and a much loved father and grandfather and friend to many.

"Sadly at 21:34hrs on 1st April 2020 my dad left us after becoming another victim to this deadly virus."

Describing his father’s last moments, he wrote: "If the government showed footage of someone at the end with this virus it would scare people and they would heed the advice I am sure.

"Please all stay home, keep your distance, wear a mask and wash your hands. If not you might put someone you love through this.

"My dad was a great man, he was much loved by many and will be sorely missed."

Cover image: PA.