Marine takes on the Army in court battle to keep family home

A MARINE who gave up fighting on the front line to take an armed forces desk job so he could look after his cancer-stricken wife is being “forced out of the military and his family home” by MOD bosses, it was claimed.

David Millard has served in the Royal Marines for more than 30 years – including several overseas tours and training young recruits.

When his wife Wendy fell seriously ill he took a position in a military recruitment office to be closer to his family.

His children, Mollie, 11, and Cameron, 9, later won Children of Courage awards for the role they take looking after their housebound mother.

The family live in a three- bedroom semi-detached home in Arbroath’s East Muirlands Road owned by the armed forces.

It has been specially adapted to allow Mrs Millard freedom in her home – including special bathroom and kitchen fittings and a stairlift.

But now military chiefs are taking legal action to have the family thrown out of the house, claiming Marine Millard’s contract as a recruitment officer means he cannot stay in the home he was given while on the front line.

A civil summary cause case – taken in the name of Lord Wallace of Tankerness against David Millard – called yesterday at Arbroath Sheriff Court.

It was continued until October – but if the application by the MOD is granted then it would give the family just 28 days to move out of the home.

Mr and Mrs Millard did not attend the brief court hearing yesterday.

Mr Millard was not at the family's home – and his wife said they could not comment on the ongoing proceedings as Mr Millard is still a member of the armed forces.

However, a close family friend said Marine Millard was being “forced out” of the career he loves.

The friend said: “He is the most loyal person to the forces you will ever meet – he’s been there for 30 years and loves it. He had to withdraw from the front line because of Wendy’s illness – and their home in Arbroath has been totally adapted to suit her.

“They have taken them to court to force them out – once it goes through they’ll have 28 days to get out.

“Apparently it would cost more than £35,000 to put the home back to the way it was because so much has been changed to help Wendy.

“David loves the military – the last thing he would want to do is leave, but he’s being forced out of his job and his home.”

A spokesman for the MoD said: “MOD properties in the local area are for entitled service personnel. The MOD has a duty to ensure member of the armed forces and their families are provided with suitable accommodation.

“This particular property is subject to an ongoing court case and it would be inappropriate to comment any further.”