By Anna Parry, Managing Director, AACE
On 17 September, I had the privilege of attending the National Ambulance Memorial Service, hosted by The Ambulance Staff Charity (TASC) at the National Memorial Arboretum.
More than 300 people from across the ambulance community, including colleagues, friends and family members, came together to remember and honour ambulance service colleagues who had died during the previous year.
It was a deeply moving occasion and a powerful reminder that, behind every uniform, is a person who has dedicated themselves to caring for others. And, as well, of course, behind everyone who wears a uniform, are so many people enabling and supporting them to do their job – both within ambulance services and in their homes.
In a profession that is often focused on what comes right next, the memorial service gives us the opportunity to pause, reflect and honour those who are no longer with us.
One of the most poignant moments was the reading of names as part of the Roll of Honour, ensuring that colleagues who have died are remembered and recognised by the wider ambulance community.
What stayed with me most was the sense of togetherness. Seeing families, friends and ambulance colleagues gathered in remembrance was both humbling and uplifting. It reminded me that, while we work in different organisations and different parts of the UK, we are united by a shared commitment to serve our communities and support one another.
My thanks go to TASC for continuing to provide such a special opportunity for remembrance, and to the families who joined us. It was a privilege to stand alongside them and remember colleagues whose contribution to our ambulance services will not be forgotten.
Click here for more information about TASC and here to see the Roll of Honour.
The photo gallery from the 2026 event is here.
