Isle of Wight paramedic represents the ambulance service at national VE Day commemorations

Last week, huge crowds gathered in London to celebrate the 80^th Anniversary of VE Day and amongst those participating in the day’s events was a paramedic from Isle of Wight Ambulance Service.

Sue Harrison, Specialist Paramedic and Trainee Advanced Care Practitioner (ACP) within Emergency and Urgent Care, was invited to be in the procession as part of the Civilian Services Contingent. The contingent is made up of representatives from organisations, including the police, fire, ambulance, and prison services. Regiments of the Household Division and Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery also took part in the procession, which started at Parliament Square and ended at the Queen Victoria Memorial outside Buckingham Palace.

Sue, who has worked within the ambulance service for more than 20 years including time on Patient Transport, is no stranger to representing the service and said she was fortunate to have previously taken part in local and national events including the King’s Coronation, the Somme 100 in Thiepval, France, and the Remembrance Service at the London Cenotaph.

Sue said, “I feel very privileged and proud not only to represent the service but to honour those who have made our lives the way they are today. Monday felt very emotional as we stood to honour and celebrate the end of World War Two. It was a happy, but tear-jerking moment that will stay with me forever.”

Representing uniformed services from the past and present, Sue found that everyone in attendance had great camaraderie, commitment, and professionalism. Particularly impressive, given the group was required to take part in an overnight practice ahead of the big day – a real test of stamina!

Taking part in the day is something Sue is personally very proud of given her Grandad served as an air raid warden in London and she was able to march out of Wellington Barracks, something that her Great Uncle did when he was sent to serve during World War One. He sadly died upon his return from a suspected infection to a leg wound.

Sue added, “These events can have a real impact on the ambulance service and its incredible to see the level of support we get from the public. It was such a special day to be involved in and I’m proud to have represented the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service.”