In an historic appointment that bridges modern military service with centuries-old tradition, Lee Fox has become the first former paratrooper to serve as a Beefeater at the Tower of London. The 40-year-old from Grimsby has traded army barracks for the iconic fortress in a remarkable career transition that took just three weeks.
From Parachute Regiment to Royal Palace
Now formally known as Yeoman Warder Fox, Lee left the Parachute Regiment as a sergeant major after 23 years of service that included operational tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He enlisted at just 17 years old and discovered the Beefeater opportunity by chance while watching a television documentary.
"I knew for at least the last six years of my career, this was something I've always wanted to do," Lee revealed. "It was always that pull of just wanting to be the first [paratrooper] as well. I thought that was quite cool."
At 40, he stands as the youngest among the Tower's 35 Beefeaters and potentially one of the youngest appointments in nearly two centuries. All Beefeaters must meet strict criteria: they must be former Armed Forces personnel with minimum 22 years service, have attained the rank of Warrant Officer or equivalent, and received the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.
Embracing a New Life at the Tower
Since moving into the prestigious address two months ago, Lee has been embracing his new role with enthusiasm. "My children, they absolutely love it," he says proudly. His favourite aspect? "Absolutely the interaction with the public. You've got people from all over the world and you hear so many interesting stories."
The transition from military life has been strikingly different. "I've never learnt this much since I was in basic training... although this time I'm not getting screamed and shouted at!" he laughs. "It's the complete opposite; everyone's really supportive. It's that community and camaraderie, that's what I'm here for and that's what makes it really special."
A Personal Commitment to Remembrance
Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, Lee shared a deeply personal tradition: he wears a poppy "in some way, shape or form" year-round to honour those he's lost. "It's not just for remembrance for me," he explained, standing before a poignant poppy installation on the Tower's South Lawn that has been displayed since May to commemorate the end of the Second World War.
Lee has been open about his own mental health challenges and emphasised the vital importance of supporting those who may need help, particularly during remembrance periods. "I went from almost not being here to now living my absolute best life here at the Tower of London," he shared. "Without that help, I could not have been here, and I certainly wouldn't have been in the position that I'm in today."
Inside his Beefeater Tudor Bonnet, concealed from daily tourists, are badges commemorating his military service and a veterans support organisation he belongs to.
Mastering the Ancient Role
Lee's current priority is committing the complete 8,000-word Yeoman Warder tour script to memory - a task that will require months of dedication. He's been working tirelessly to learn it, even listening to recordings of himself reciting it while out jogging.
"It's not quite a podcast or some sort of dance music that's going to motivate you to get through," he jokes. However, with 23 years serving in a regiment whose motto means 'Ready for Anything,' Lee is certain to meet the challenge head-on.
Reflecting on his extraordinary journey, Lee concludes: "To be able to give this to not just my friends but my children who come here and visit... It's unreal and I'm grateful every single day."
