London Ambulance Service today (9 September) marked Emergency Services Day with a moving ceremony at its headquarters in Waterloo, while representatives from the Trust also attended a special commemorative service at the prestigious Guildhall.
Staff gathered in the memorial garden at the Service’s Waterloo Road headquarters to celebrate the determination, resilience and compassion of the two million people across the country who dedicate their working lives to providing emergency care to those in need, and those who work behind the scenes to keep emergency services running smoothly 24/7.
The day is also an opportunity to remember emergency service workers who have died in service, with a two-minute silence observed at 9am on the ninth day of the ninth month.
As part of the ceremony at HQ, Chief Executive Jason Killens KAM paid tribute to and read the names of the colleagues who have died in service over the past 12 months before a bugler from the Ceremonial Unit signalled the start of the silence by playing The Last Post.
Addressing those gathered for the ceremony, Jason said:
“It has been an extraordinary year for London Ambulance Service, and you have met that with extraordinary dedication, compassion and care.
“The busiest summer in our history is coming to an end. The extreme heat was challenging, but thanks to the hard work of all our teams, we were ready to respond and keep Londoners safe.
“This year also saw the appalling attack on Hatzola ambulances in Golders Green. Ambulance crews and volunteers dedicate their lives to helping others. They should be protected and respected, not attacked.
“In a challenging year, I’d like to thank each and every one of you for your determination and commitment.
“Please now join us in a two-minute silence as we reflect on the vital role our emergency services play in protecting and caring for our communities, and remember those colleagues who are sadly no longer with us.”
Carolyn Slater from the Ceremonial Unit, said:
“Emergency Services Day gives us the chance to celebrate the incredible efforts of all the staff and volunteers across London Ambulance Service and the UK.
“It is an honour and privilege to take part in this ceremony and to remember the colleagues we have lost over the past 12 months, ensuring that their contribution to our service and our patients is never forgotten.”
Emergency Services Day) is a national day across the UK supported by His Majesty The King, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, the Prime Minister, and the First Ministers of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
