Navy dad ‘made to do PE test that killed him’
A ROYAL Navy officer who served in Iraq and Afghanistan died after collaps- ing during a fitness test he was told he must complete or “leave” his position, an inquest heard.
Ian Fleming, 53, died from a cardiac episode he suffered while undergoing the physical training on duty.
His wife told the hearing Mr Fleming, who had heart disease and was a smoker, had been given an “ultimatum” by his seniors, and had to take part in the course.
He collapsed while “in the early stages” of a jogging exercise at HMS Collingwood, in Fareham, Hants. Despite attempts to resuscitate him, Mr Fleming died on November 16, 2020.
His wife Michele, of Plymouth, told the hearing in Portsmouth: “He told me he was given an ultimatum. He had to go on the course or he had to leave the Navy.
“He had no choice but to attend. He was scared about letting himself down in front of juniors he trained. He didn’t like to disappoint.
“As soon as Ian found out the date [of his training] he went into a complete meltdown.This was out of character for Ian as he was always laid back.
“Ian always gave 100 per cent to his job and wanted to do his best.”
Anxiety
The serviceman was on track to attain the permanent rank of Petty Officer.
Area coroner Rosamund RhodesKemp told the hearing: “In order to secure that promotion he had to undertake a particular training course. That made him anxious.
“He suffered from anxiety for the last three or four years. He suffered panic attacks.” The four-week Senior Rates Leadership Course, described as “mentally and physically demanding”, involves challenges including a log run, teambuilding exercises and an obstacle course.
The hearing was told that failure to complete the course could result in an officer losing pay, accommodation and rank, and could possibly affect their pension.
Mr Fleming was a member of the Unit Personnel Office team at RNAS Yeovilton Air Station, in Somerset.
He married Michele in 2000, and they had a daughter, Katrina.
As well as being deployed to Iraq, Mr Fleming took part in two operational tours of Afghanistan.
He was awarded several medals during his career, including the Operational Service Medal for Afghanistan.
The inquest, which is expected to last until tomorrow, continues.