Military tribute at St Mary's Hospital in Portsmouth for NHS staff who have lost their lives

TODAY’S minute’s silence in memory of those NHS staff who have lost their lives to Covid-19 had a military tribute at one Portsmouth hospital.
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At 11am this morning (April 28) workplaces and household across the country fell silent to remember those who have perished due the coronavirus pandemic.

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As staff at St Mary’s Hospital prepared to recognise fallen colleagues a man described as being in his eighties arrived at the hospital entrance with the British Legion colours held aloft. He was smartly dressed in a military suit.

Mystery guard of honour, Chris Smith, arrived at St Mary's Hospital in Portsmouth, to honour all those NHS workers who have lost their lives due to coronavirusMystery guard of honour, Chris Smith, arrived at St Mary's Hospital in Portsmouth, to honour all those NHS workers who have lost their lives due to coronavirus
Mystery guard of honour, Chris Smith, arrived at St Mary's Hospital in Portsmouth, to honour all those NHS workers who have lost their lives due to coronavirus
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The man introduced himself to security staff as Chris Smith from Milton and explained his father had served in the marines and that he wanted mark his appreciation for the work of NHS staff.

One bystander, who asked not to named, said: ‘He arrived all suited and booted and said that he wanted to do more to help the cause but he couldn’t because of his age. He also said he would like to return again if another minute’s silence is held.’

Chris also told observers that he had been carrying out the same routine every Thursday outside his home during the Clap for Your Carers applause.

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