Zach Stubbings, the former flying instructor for Prince William, has sadly passed away at the age of 47 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Known for his dedication to service in the Royal Air Force (RAF), Stubbings succumbed to multiple myeloma last month, a form of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow.
His diagnosis came in 2013, and since then, he fought valiantly against the disease for over a decade.
Stubbings gained recognition not only for his role as a flight sergeant and helicopter winchman but also for training Prince William during the royal’s time at RAF Valley in Anglesey from 2010 to 2013.
His passing has sparked serious discussions about the health risks associated with military aviation, particularly concerning toxic fumes emitted from helicopter exhaust.
Throughout his career, Stubbings and his fellow servicemen were frequently exposed to hazardous emissions while flying military helicopters.
The exposure to these toxic fumes has raised alarming concerns, as many RAF and Navy personnel have developed serious health issues, including various forms of cancer.
Stubbings’ case is one among many, highlighting a troubling trend among those who serve in the armed forces.
Former pilots have reported being diagnosed with a range of cancers, including throat cancer, lung cancer, testicular cancer, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
Many of them have accused the Ministry of Defence of neglecting their responsibility to provide adequate protection against the carcinogenic fumes produced by military helicopters.
Stubbings himself was vocal about the harsh realities of working in such conditions.
In an interview with Mail Online, he shared his experiences dealing with toxic fumes during his time in the RAF.
He vividly described how, while working near the cargo door or on the winch, he was often engulfed by the concentrated exhaust fumes.
The discomfort was exacerbated by the overpowering smell and the absence of protective measures.
Despite raising concerns, little action was taken to improve safety standards.
Stubbings expressed frustration over the lack of protective equipment available for crews, leaving them to deal with the aftermath of their exposure.
This negligence has led to a growing number of military personnel developing health issues they believe are directly tied to their service.
The news of Stubbings’ death was shared by Richard Sutton, a former Navy commander and fellow pilot who is also battling a rare form of cancer.
Sutton, diagnosed with epithelioid fibrosarcoma 12 years ago, represents a growing number of armed forces members who suspect their illnesses stem from toxic fumes encountered during their service.
The ongoing struggles faced by these veterans underscore an urgent need for improved health and safety protocols within the military.
As more servicemen come forward with similar health concerns, the call for accountability and protective measures becomes louder.
As of now, there has been no public statement from Prince William regarding the passing of his former instructor.
The loss of Stubbings resonates deeply with those who knew him, especially fellow servicemen who are grappling with their own health issues.
Zach Stubbings’ story serves as a poignant reminder of the unseen dangers lurking within military aviation.
It emphasizes the importance of addressing the health risks that many military personnel face, ensuring that their sacrifices do not come at the cost of their well-being.
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