The Unveiling of a Suspected ‘Fake’ Admiral at Remembrance Sunday
A 64-year-old man has been arrested after being accused of impersonating a high-ranking navy officer during a Remembrance Sunday event in Llandudno, north Wales. The incident sparked outrage among attendees and online communities, as the individual was seen wearing a Rear Admiral uniform adorned with multiple medals.
The man reportedly appeared at the cenotaph, where he laid wreaths alongside other participants. His attire raised immediate suspicion, particularly due to the presence of two highly prestigious medals: the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal. These awards are rarely bestowed upon a single service member, leading to questions about their legitimacy.
Police have since confirmed that the man was arrested under the Uniforms Act 1984. During a search of his home, authorities recovered a naval uniform and several medals. Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan stated that the investigation is ongoing and that further updates will be provided when available.
The event, organized by Llandudno Town Council, was not aware of the man’s attendance. He was not listed as a guest, and his presence went unnoticed until concerns were raised by military enthusiasts. A group known as the Walter Mitty Hunters Club was instrumental in identifying discrepancies in the medals he wore.
During the ceremony, the man was asked by the parade marshal who he was representing. He allegedly claimed to be acting on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant of Clwyd. However, Harry Fetherstonhaugh, the Lord Lieutenant, denied any knowledge of the man, stating, “I’ve never seen him in my life.”
Greg Robbins, chair of the council’s civic sub-committee, revealed that the parade marshal had questioned the man but ultimately allowed him to participate in the wreath-laying ceremony. “The most important thing with Remembrance Sunday ceremonies is that they are suitably dignified, as this one was,” he told the BBC. “This individual did not disrupt the ceremony, but we are keen to know who he was, and will be working with the Ministry of Defence on its investigation.”
North Wales Police confirmed the arrest, noting that the man resides in the Harlech area. They described the incident as involving the unlawful use of military uniforms. The Ministry of Defence has been approached for comment, but no official statement has been released yet.
Key Details from the Incident
- The man was seen wearing a Rear Admiral uniform and multiple medals.
- Two specific medals, the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal, raised questions due to their rarity.
- The Llandudno Town Council was unaware of the man’s presence at the event.
- The man claimed to represent the Lord Lieutenant of Clwyd, but this claim was denied by the actual Lord Lieutenant.
- Authorities recovered a naval uniform and medals from the man’s home following his arrest.
- The Ministry of Defence is involved in the investigation, though no official response has been given yet.
As the investigation continues, the public remains curious about the identity of the man and the circumstances surrounding his appearance at such a solemn event. The case highlights the importance of maintaining the integrity of military honors and the need for vigilance in ensuring that such events remain respectful and dignified.