Paramedics help reunite military veterans with old friends on special seaside trip

Military veterans enjoyed a memorable day of friendship and celebration after London Ambulance Service crews took them on a special trip to the south coast earlier this month.

Working alongside the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, London Ambulance Service crews met military veterans, including Chelsea Pensioners from the Royal Hospital Chelsea before joining a convoy to Worthing.

The journey reconnected military veterans with former comrades so they could share memories and spend time with old friends during a day dedicated to honouring their service.

World War Two veteran and former ambulance crew at London Ambulance Service Paul Terry said: “Having worked for the London Ambulance Service, I know first-hand the dedication and professionalism of the men and women who wear that uniform.

“They are there for people on some of the most difficult days of their lives, and they do an incredible job with compassion and care.

“It means a great deal to all of us veterans that the London Ambulance Service continues to support the Taxi Charity. Whether they’re joining us on our annual day out to Worthing or travelling with us on our remembrance trips to the Netherlands, Belgium and France, their presence gives us reassurance and allows us to enjoy these special occasions with confidence.

“We are extremely grateful for everything they do, and I would like to thank every member of the London Ambulance Service for their kindness, professionalism and continued support.”

Five members of staff from London Ambulance Service volunteered their time to join around 50 volunteer taxi drivers to escort veterans to the village of South Holmwood in Surrey, where they enjoyed breakfast together before continuing to Worthing.

On arrival at Worthing Pavilion, the veterans received a warm welcome from the, Deputy Mayor of Worthing, Councillor Henna Chowdhury alongside local guests and supporters. The day also featured entertainment providing a fitting celebration for the veterans and their families.

This year marks the fifth year London Ambulance Service has supported the charity since the popular seaside outings resumed following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mylton Burden, from the London Ambulance Service , who has helped organise the event for the last five years, said:

“It was a privilege for our crews to support this wonderful event and help veterans enjoy a special day alongside friends, family and former comrades.

“Many of those attending have given so much in service to their country, and it was fantastic to see them receiving such a warm welcome and enjoying the celebrations in Worthing.

“We are proud to continue supporting the Taxi Charity and helping veterans take part in these memorable trips.”

London cab driver and veteran Ben Ellis said: “The Worthing trip is one of those days that reminds you why being part of the Taxi Charity is so special. Spending time with the veterans, hearing their stories and seeing how much they enjoy the day is a real privilege.

“It’s also brilliant to catch up with my fellow cab drivers and all the supporters who make the event happen year after year.

“There’s a real sense of friendship and teamwork, and it’s an honour to play a small part in giving something back to the men and women who have given so much for our country.”

The trips have a proud history stretching back to 1948, when the Taxi Charity first began organising days out for military veterans. Organisers hope the much-loved tradition will continue for many years to come.

More than 300 people took part in this year’s event, including veterans, carers, volunteer taxi drivers, ambulance crews and other supporters, all helping to make the day a memorable experience for those who served their country.

If you would like to support the work of London Ambulance Service and our crews, why not join the London Life Hike on Saturday 26 September? There’s a family-friendly 6km route or a more challenging 21kn route around some of London’s most famous landmarks. All funds raised will go to the London Ambulance Charity – register here.