A WAR veteran who saved the life of a fellow soldier during battle has died after collapsing while taking part in a remembrance day service.

Father-of-three Archie Beaty, 56, from Windsor, was taking part in the Marlow event on Sunday when he fell ill close to where the parade was finishing at Marlow Royal British Legion in Station Approach.

Paramedics treated him at the scene but despite being taken to Wexham Park Hospital he could not be saved, it was confirmed this afternoon.

The Falklands War hero has been a long time child fosterer, with his wife Diane, taking care of over 53 children in 22 years.

Pipe Major Steve Duffy his friend from the Scots Guards Assoc. Pipes & Drums, which was participating in the event, revealed he saved his life during the Falklands conflict.

They served together in the south Atlantic with the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards at the battle of Tumbledown Mountain.

He said: "He had, through an act of selfless bravery, saved my life all those years ago, rescuing me whilst under heavy mortar and artillery fire when I was severely wounded. This was one of many acts of bravery for which he was never properly recognised. I owe him a great debt of gratitude that I can never repay.”

He said: “His is one of the many untold stories of valour and courage in the face of adversity. It was strangely appropriate that I was there with him on Sunday.

“He was courageous and unselfish to the end being more concerned with not letting his colleagues in the band or the parade down rather than look after himself.”

Off duty nurses, paramedics and members of the parade had tried helping with CPR at the scene – but ultimately to no avail. It is thought he suffered a heart attack.

Mr Duffy paid tribute to his friend, calling him “a larger than life character in every way”.

He said: “He had huge enthusiasm for everything he did and his infectious and mischievous humour endeared him to everyone that he met.

“He was a terrific ambassador for the band and his former regiment.” Archie lived in Windsor with his wife Diane. He has two daughters, Claire and Lynn and son Max. Archie and Diane were recently recognised for their fostering service and to the community by being invited to a Buckingham Palace Garden party in the presence of HM The Queen.

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