By Queen awards George Cross to entire NHS for courage during pandemic.
The Queen has awarded the George Cross to the entire NHS, making public a handwritten note in which she praises the “courage, compassion and dedication” of health workers over more than 70 years.
It is only the third time the award – granted in recognition of “acts of the greatest heroism or of the most courage in circumstances of extreme danger” – has been given to a collective body.
NHS England chief executive Sir Simon Stevens said the award recognised the “skill and fortitude” of staff.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are hosting a Buckingham Palace tea later to thank NHS workers.
The George Cross, instituted by King George VI in 1940 during the height of the Blitz in World War Two, is awarded for “acts of the greatest heroism or of the most courage in circumstances of extreme danger”.
Prince William and Catherine will join senior NHS figures, frontline staff and patients at a thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Cathedral in London, to celebrate the work of the health service in tackling Covid-19.
Buckingham Palace
In her handwritten message, 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.
“This award recognises all NHS staff, past and present, across all disciplines and all four nations.
“Collectively, over more than seven decades, they have supported the people of our country with courage, compassion and dedication, demonstrating the highest standards of public service.
“You have the enduring thanks and heartfelt appreciation of us all.”
Getty Images – George Cross
