Decorated Soldier Takes His Own Life After Being Ordered Back to Army
A decorated soldier’s tragic death raises concerns over military mental health support
Charlie Owen, Windsor, UK, Army, Suicide Prevention, Mental Health
Windsor: Charlie Owen was just 25 when he took his own life. His mother, Tracy Evans, believes he would still be alive if he hadn’t been ordered back to the barracks.
Charlie died at Combermere Barracks on September 11, 2023, just days after a previous suicide attempt. Tracy said he was doing better after being home on sick leave but was called back without proper explanation.
On the night he returned, he was left alone in his room, and sadly, his body was found the next morning. An inquest revealed that not all relevant information was shared about his mental health before his return.
The coroner raised concerns about the lack of mandatory suicide prevention training for army welfare officers. Tracy feels that the Army needs to do more to prevent such tragedies.
Charlie had served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria and received medals for his service. Tracy said he had visibly changed after being ordered back to base from their home in Meidrim, Wales.
She believes his death was avoidable and that he wouldn’t have taken his life if he had stayed with his family. Tracy recalled how Charlie seemed to have given up hope before leaving home.
Charlie had been struggling with his mental health since returning from Iraq in August 2023. Tracy mentioned that he had wanted to leave the Army for some time but felt trapped.
After a doctor had initially supported him, things took a turn when he was told he had to return to work. Tracy said that after a phone call with a nurse, Charlie’s mental state worsened significantly.
She is now advocating for better suicide prevention training for Army staff, emphasizing the need for them to recognize the signs of distress. Tracy feels the Army’s actions contributed to her son’s death.
In a statement, an Army spokesperson expressed condolences to Charlie’s family and acknowledged the coroner’s findings, promising to assess any shortcomings highlighted.