The Queen turned over the George Cross to the National Health Service, acknowledging its staff – past and present – across the UK.
In a handwritten message, His Majesty say that NHS the staff have done their work “with courage, compassion and dedication” for 73 years.
Established in 1940 by King George VI, the George Cross is awarded in recognition of “acts of the greatest heroism or courage in circumstances of extreme danger”, and was presented to the NHS on the advice of the George Cross Committee and the Prime Minister.
In her message, on Windsor Castle letterhead, the Queen wrote: “It is with great pleasure, on behalf of a grateful nation, that I award the George Cross to the National Health Services of the United Kingdom. United.
“This award recognizes all NHS staff, past and present, in all disciplines and in all four countries.
“For more than seven decades, and especially in recent times, you have supported the people of our country with courage, compassion and dedication, demonstrating the highest standards of public service.
“You have our unwavering thanks and sincere appreciation.”
NHS Chief Executive Sir Simon Stevens said: “This unprecedented award rightly recognizes the skill, compassion and courage of staff across the National Health Service – nurses, paramedics, doctors, cleaners, therapists, the whole team – who under the most demanding circumstances responded to the worst pandemic in a century and the biggest challenge this country has faced since World War II.
“Out of those dark times has come the best of what it means to be a caregiver and healthcare professional.
“In the face of adversity, we have seen extraordinary teamwork, not only across the NHS, but involving hundreds of thousands of volunteers, millions of caregivers, keys…
More information about this article Read More
Source: news.sky.com
This notice was published: 2021-07-04 21:12:00
