An online petition initiated by Aaron French of Southminster, has already been supported by 301 people and will eventually be forwarded to Prime Minister David Cameron, local MP Sarah Newton and Trevor Doughty, corporate director of education, health and social care at Cornwall Council.

The petition demands: “Find them a house, resolve this embarrassing situation immediately and give our veterans the support they have earned.”

READ the story that sparked a national outcry here

Mr French said: “How many other veterans are struggling to make ends meet after putting their lives on the line? Most are too proud (like the Streets) to ask for help until things become desperate, many more never do. Is this the way to reward bravery and honour?”

Among those supporting and commenting on the petition is Lisa Van-Evelingen, of Penryn, who said: “I am signing because soldiers are willing to give us their all to protect us so it is our duty to protect them in return if and when we can. This is a disgusting way to treat someone who fought for us so I am choosing to do my bit to fight for them.”

Chris Brason, also of Penryn, added: “I am a Ministry of Defence employee and believe the way this government treats its ex personnel is disgusting. Change is needed and needed now.”

David Craig, of Truro, said: “It’s the right thing to do. A family who have been beaten down by bad luck and ill health should be supported.”

Claire Macintyre, of Alloa, said: “I served with Jamie in the Household Cavalry. He was an awesome soldier and is an amazing family man that this should not be happening to.”

Carmel Hyland, of Falmouth, said: “They should be top of the council’s housing list – four kids!!! Anyone who has fought for the country should have priority and the choice should be theirs, if they want to rent privately or opt for a council house, not the councils.” Alex Green, of Falmouth, said: “No veteran who gave years of loyal service to his country should find himself and his family abandoned and left to fend for themselves on the streets. Absolutely disgusting treatment and whoever is responsible should be ashamed of themselves.”

A separate ipetition asking supporters to “help get Cornwall Council to house this man and his family” has attracted at least 35 signatures.

Among them is Rachel Jose who said: “This man has put his life on the line to serve this country and through no fault of his own been dismissed, It appalls me that he has been refused housing! It’s about time we all slapped the government around the face and do what is right. Not just by this family but for all the others that are struggling to house their families. I'm ashamed to be a part of this disgrace of a country. This is not what our great grandfathers fought for.”

Packet readers have also taken to our website to condemn Cornwall Council’s stance and offer support to the family.

Pendolinodriver said: “If Cornwall Council get to read this. I will be doing everything in my power to make sure you review this case and house this veteran and his family. It’s disgusting that the man is struggling to get work and you kick him on the street. Not happy.”

Monmar said: “What is wrong with this country? This makes me so mad. This family have been through enough. Give them a house for goodness sake.”

Markjones1993 said: “Really shocked to see this. We should help our heroes.”

Hellwire said: What is it about Devon and Cornwall they seem to want to be confrontational at every turn? They have no compassion or maybe they only want rich people living there. Get a grip Cornwall Council read the facts behind this case, consider the situation and do your bounden duty to provide housing for those in need.”