Additional Coverage:
- Prince William Suffers Heartbreaking Personal Loss (parade.com)
Local Flight Sergeant Dies After Battle with Cancer
A former flight sergeant who once trained Prince William has died from multiple myeloma, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. Zach Stubbings, 47, passed away last month in hospice care after a decade-long fight against the disease.
Stubbings served as a helicopter winchman with RAF Search and Rescue, joining at the age of 21. He worked with Prince William during the royal’s time at RAF Valley in Anglesey from 2010 to 2013.
His death has brought renewed attention to concerns about toxic fumes from military helicopters. Stubbings and other service members believe exposure to these fumes caused their cancers.
Last year, Stubbings spoke out about the lack of protection from the helicopter exhaust, describing how the fumes would often blow back into the faces of crew members. He recalled the constant coughing, burning eyes, and pervasive smell.
Former navy commander Richard Sutton, also battling cancer, confirmed Stubbings’ passing. Sutton and others have accused the Ministry of Defence of neglecting to safeguard personnel from the potentially carcinogenic emissions.
Prince William has not yet commented publicly on Stubbings’ death.
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- Prince William Suffers Heartbreaking Personal Loss (parade.com)