Prince William has paid tribute to a young army medic found dead in her barracks who “served with courage and distinction”.
Cpl Lucy Wilde, 25, who posted videos on TikTok documenting her daily life in the army, was found dead in her barracks in Warminster, Wiltshire, on 5 February. An investigation is under way, the Ministry of Defence said.
In a statement posted on social media, William expressed his “immense sadness” over Wilde’s death. He said: “I remember our meeting during her time with the Welsh Guards, where her warmth and compassion were unmistakable. She served with courage and distinction as a medic and sought always to help others. I send my heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.”
Wilde’s brother Josh also paid tribute to his sister, commending her as “strength wrapped in softness”. He said she served in the army with “courage and pride” and “lived with resilience”.
“She adored long walks with her dog, the peace of nature, books that transported her and the sense of freedom found outdoors. She had a warmth and loyalty that was rare. A heart that gave even when she had been hurt,” he said.
Wilde joined the army eight years ago and was with the Welsh Guards until December 2025 before being promoted to corporal and moving to the Royal Yorkshire Regiment.
In a tribute, the Welsh Guards said she had “a rare ability to lift those around her” and commended her “courage” after she was the first on the scene of a “mass casualty” incident in the Falklands when a vehicle overturned, injuring a number of guardsmen.
“Her actions that day were nothing short of outstanding, and she was rightly commended for her courage and professionalism,” the regiment said.
The regiment said Wilde was “popular, genuine and deeply respected”, adding that: “In the short time she spent with us, she quickly became part of the Welsh Guards family – not just as an exceptional medic, but through the bonds of friendship she formed in the Welsh Guards, along with the warmth, humour and professionalism she brought to all who worked with her.”
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: “It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of Cpl Lucy Wilde of the Royal Army Medical Service on 5 February 2026.
“Our thoughts are with Cpl Wilde’s family and friends at this sad time, and we ask that their privacy is respected.
“The circumstances surrounding Cpl Wilde’s death are being investigated, and it would be inappropriate to comment any further at this time.”
