Celebrating Excellence in Military Nursing On 5 December 2025, Royal Navy nurses who have been awarded the prestigious Royal Red Cross (RRC) and Associate Royal Red Cross (ARRC) came together for the inaugural tri-Service event at the Royal College of Nursing HQ, London. This landmark occasion marked the beginning of a journey to establish the Royal Red Cross Association as a registered charity, an organisation dedicated to celebrating exceptional service in military nursing, strengthening professional connections, and supporting both serving and retired recipients.
We are immensely grateful to Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) for generously subsidising the cost of attendance for Royal Navy personnel. Their support ensured that this historic event could bring together recipients from across the Services to shape the future of the Association.
Karen McCullough, SO1 Med Op Cap Dev - Navy Healthcare
Why This Matters
The RRC and ARRC are rare and highly respected state awards only awarded to Military Nurses, yet recipients have historically had few opportunities to connect, and the rarity of the award has meant its profile has remained low. This Association will change that – creating a platform for recognition, camaraderie, leadership and charitable impact.
Highlights of the Day
- Welcome & Vision: Col Andrea Lewis RRC, elected inaugural Chair
- Inspiring Presentations:
- History of the RRC and ARRC – Lt Col (Ret’d) Simon Davies RRC
- ARRC Personal Journey – Brig Steve Archer ARRC (Ret’d)
- Keynote Address: Sue Tranka, Chief Nursing Officer for Wales, sharing her leadership journey
- Networking, discussion, and planning for the next chapter
Looking Ahead
Once charity status is confirmed, the Association will focus on:
- Fundraising initiatives to support members and causes
- Networking events to strengthen professional and social ties
- Representation at national commemorations, including marching as an Association at the Cenotaph
This is more than an event – it’s the start of a movement to honour and connect those who have given exceptional service in military nursing and with the support of the RNRMC hopefully this association will grow from strength to strength.
Karen McCullough, SO1 Med Op Cap Dev - Navy Healthcare
