LONDON – Queen Elizabeth has awarded Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) the George Cross – the highest civilian gallantry award – in recognition of 73 years of dedicated service, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The honour has only been bestowed collectively twice before, and only once by the queen.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the award was a symbol of the nation’s gratitude.
“NHS staff have cared for us and our friends and family on the frontline of a pandemic for over a year, and I have witnessed their courage first-hand,” Johnson, who was treated by the NHS in intensive care with COVID-19 last year, said.
“I know the whol…
Keep on reading: Queen Elizabeth honours Britain’s health service for pandemic work