Why Was a Soldier's Body Left in Barracks for Three Weeks?

The Tragic Case of Lance Corporal Bernard Mongan: A Call for Accountability in Military Mental Health Support

The heartbreaking story of Lance Corporal Bernard Mongan, a soldier whose lifeless body was found weeks after his death, has raised alarming questions about the treatment of mental health within the military. Mongan's widow, Beth Mongan, has publicly expressed her outrage at the systemic failures that contributed to her husband’s tragic end. The inquest into his death revealed a series of harrowing details, including allegations of bullying, inadequate welfare checks, and an overall lack of accountability within the Army. This article delves into the circumstances surrounding Mongan's death, the implications of the inquest findings, and the urgent need for reforms to better support military personnel facing mental health challenges.

The Discovery of Bernard Mongan’s Body

On January 23, 2020, the decomposing body of 33-year-old Lance Corporal Bernard Mongan was discovered in his barracks at Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire. The grim discovery came three weeks after he was last seen, prompting a wave of questions regarding the welfare checks that were supposed to be conducted during that period. Mongan's widow, Beth, described the delay in discovering her husband's body as “unforgivable.”

In the days leading up to his death, Mongan reportedly exhibited several troubling behaviors. He had given away his cherished Nintendo console and made donations to a suicide charity, raising significant concern among his friends about his mental health. Witnesses described Mongan as distressed, crying, and under the influence of alcohol during his last interactions with others. He had a history of struggling with mental health issues, exacerbated by experiences of bullying within the military.

The Inquest Findings

The inquest, led by senior coroner Jon Heath, concluded with an open verdict, stating it was “not possible to determine” the cause of Mongan’s death. Doctors were unable to establish a clear medical cause due to the state of decomposition. However, the coroner noted that Mongan had been subjected to distressing treatment by his superiors, with witnesses confirming that he was "shouted, screamed at, and forced to undertake excessive physical training" while being denied basic respect.

One significant point raised during the inquest was the failure of the Army to conduct proper welfare checks over the Christmas period, despite being aware of Mongan's mental health struggles. Astonishingly, the very individual Mongan had accused of mistreatment was assigned to check on him and admitted to not performing any checks.

The Impact of Bullying in the Military

Bullying and harassment within military ranks have been longstanding issues that merit serious attention. In Mongan’s case, testimonies from fellow soldiers painted a grim picture of his treatment. The term "bullying" was deemed an understatement, as those who witnessed the behavior claimed it was outright victimization. The inquest highlighted the need for transparency and accountability within the military, particularly concerning mental health support and the treatment of personnel.

• Bullying behaviors reported included:
• Being shouted at and disrespected by superiors.
• Being forced to perform additional physical training without adequate breaks.
• Being treated in a manner that caused significant emotional distress.

The Role of Mental Health Support in the Military

The tragic case of Lance Corporal Bernard Mongan underscores the critical need for comprehensive mental health support within military institutions. While the Army has made strides in addressing mental health issues, the failure to properly investigate bullying claims and ensure the welfare of soldiers remains a glaring gap in their approach. The stigma surrounding mental health in the military can deter personnel from seeking help, often leading to devastating consequences.

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness

Raising awareness about mental health issues is essential for breaking down barriers and encouraging soldiers to speak up about their struggles. The military must foster a culture where seeking help is normalized and encouraged. This includes:

• Providing accessible mental health resources.
• Implementing mandatory mental health training for all personnel.
• Encouraging peer support programs that allow soldiers to support one another.

Accountability and Systemic Change

In light of Mongan’s death, there is a pressing need for systemic change within military organizations. Accountability measures must be put in place to ensure that all complaints, especially those related to mental health and bullying, are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly. Additionally, military leaders need to demonstrate a commitment to improving the welfare of their personnel by:

• Establishing clear protocols for welfare checks.
• Conducting regular training on the importance of mental health.
• Creating an environment where soldiers feel safe to report concerns without fear of retribution.

Lessons Learned from Mongan’s Tragedy

The tragedy of Lance Corporal Bernard Mongan serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of mental health support in the military. As soldiers face unique pressures and challenges, it is imperative that military organizations prioritize their well-being. By addressing systemic issues related to bullying and mental health, the Army can help prevent future tragedies and create a more supportive environment for all personnel.

The Path Forward: A Call to Action

In the wake of Bernard Mongan’s death, it is crucial for policymakers, military leaders, and mental health advocates to come together and advocate for meaningful change. The military community must engage in open dialogue about mental health, recognize the signs of distress, and provide the necessary support for those in need. It is time to take action that honors the memory of those lost and ensures that no soldier suffers in silence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the circumstances leading to Bernard Mongan's death?

Lance Corporal Bernard Mongan's death was surrounded by allegations of bullying, inadequate welfare checks, and struggles with mental health. His body was discovered three weeks after his death at Catterick Garrison.

What were the findings of the inquest into Mongan's death?

The inquest concluded with an open verdict, stating it was not possible to determine the cause of death due to decomposition. However, there were significant concerns raised about bullying and the lack of adequate mental health support.

How can the military improve mental health support for soldiers?

The military can improve mental health support by providing accessible resources, implementing training on mental health awareness, and fostering a supportive environment where soldiers feel safe to seek help.

What steps should be taken to address bullying in the military?

Addressing bullying in the military requires accountability measures, thorough investigations into complaints, and a culture shift that emphasizes respect and support among personnel.

The case of Lance Corporal Bernard Mongan is not just a story of loss; it is a call to action for all of us to advocate for better mental health support for those who serve our country. How can we, as a society, ensure that no soldier feels alone in their struggles? #MentalHealthMatters #EndBullying #SupportOurTroops