A full military funeral has been held in London for Captain Elizabeth Helen Godwin, the first female officer in the British Army’s prestigious Life Guards regiment, following her death in a car crash.
Capt Godwin, aged 28, died on 5 September in an accident on the A322 Lightwater Bypass in Surrey. At the time of her death, she was serving at the Army Training Regiment in Pirbright, where she was responsible for teaching and mentoring young recruits.
Her funeral took place on Wednesday at the Guards Chapel, Wellington Barracks, in central London, with colleagues, family, and senior military figures in attendance.
Nine mounted cavalry troopers from the Life Guards formed a solemn detachment on Wellington Barracks Square to receive the hearse. Members of the regiment then carried her coffin into the chapel, while dismounted dutymen from both the Life Guards and the Blues and Royals lined the steps in tribute.
A particularly poignant moment came as an honor guard was formed at the top of the chapel steps by the very recruits she had been training at Pirbright. The hearse also followed the same route that Capt Godwin had once taken daily as an officer of the King’s Life Guard, adding a deeply personal touch to the ceremony.
Capt Godwin grew up in Devon and attended Exeter School before pursuing her military career. In 2020, she joined the Life Guards after graduating from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, where she was awarded the prestigious Sword of Honour for being the best officer cadet of her intake.
Her career saw her balance demanding ceremonial duties with active sporting involvement. She represented the Army in both polo and hockey and played key roles in national events, including the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III.
Those who served alongside her described her as a remarkable leader and role model. Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Tom Armitage paid tribute, describing her as “talented, resourceful, and compassionate,” qualities that made her both an outstanding officer and a mentor to younger soldiers.
Her sudden death has been felt deeply within the regiment and across the wider military community. For many, she represented the changing face of the British Army, breaking barriers as the first woman to serve in the Life Guards, the most senior regiment of the Household Cavalry.
The ceremony at the Guards Chapel reflected not only the loss of a dedicated officer but also the pride in her achievements and contributions. For her family, colleagues, and students, Capt Godwin leaves behind a legacy of leadership, courage, and commitment to service.
Her funeral marked the closing chapter of a short but extraordinary career, with full military honors befitting an officer who had served her country with distinction both on the parade ground and in the classroom.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
