We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Captain Elizabeth (Lizzie) Godwin, who attended Exeter School from 2004 to 2013.
Lizzie joined the school at the age of seven and is remembered for her warmth, energy and determination. Lizzie’s life was marked by courage, service and integrity. She will be remembered with admiration and affection by all who knew her at Exeter School.
Captain Elizabeth Godwin Life Guards Squadron 2iC was born in Devon and attended Exeter School until she was 15. She graduated from King’s College London, qualifying as a nurse in 2015. Whilst at university Captain Godwin commissioned into the Reserves and captained the 1st XI Hockey team.
Captain Godwin commissioned from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst as the first female officer in the Life Guards, The Household Cavalry, since the regiment formed in 1661. She was also awarded the Sword of Honour as the best cadet in her intake.
On joining her regiment, she led a troop of 26 soldiers in Wiltshire, conducting overseas exercises, patrols competitions and running a promotion course for junior troops. At the start of her ceremonial duties in 2022, Captain Godwin marched in the State Funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II and commanded a Division of 30 horses and soldiers at the Coronation procession of HM King Charles III.
Her experiences conducting ceremonial duties varied, including a deployment to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan to enhance diplomatic relations in the region and leading the escort for HRH Princess Royal at CHIO Aachen in Germany as Musical Ride Officer. The Household Cavalry have published a eulogy for Lizzie, which can be found here.
Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this very sad time.
