The death of Darren Greenfield, a 47-year-old homeless veteran, has sparked outrage among charities and campaigners calling for better support for ex-servicemen.

Darren, who once served proudly with the Royal Tank Regiment, was a familiar figure outside Edinburgh’s Waverley Station, sitting in his khakis with a cardboard sign reading: “Soldier in need, please help. Thank you, God bless.” After years of struggling to adjust to civilian life, he died on December 17, reportedly after being admitted to hospital.

Despite offers of help from multiple charities, including Soldiers Off The Street and SSAFA, Darren often refused assistance. Friends and former comrades described him as a “true gentleman” and a “fantastic soldier.” His death has reignited anger over the growing number of homeless veterans in the UK — estimated at more than 13,000.

Campaigners like Tommy Davidson and Calum McLeod condemned the situation, saying it’s a disgrace that those willing to die for their country are left to die on the streets. Fellow veteran Les Standish, once homeless himself, said many ex-soldiers suffer from PTSD and lack proper government support.

Officials expressed condolences, with MP Ian Murray calling it a “tragic reminder” of how the system fails veterans. The Ministry of Defence insists it provides extensive support and funding to prevent homelessness, while Scotland’s Veterans Minister Keith Brown said the government is investing £50 million to end rough sleeping — but for many like Darren, help came too late.