St. John Nursing Division’s Annual Inspection

Wanganui Chronicle, 27 November 1948, Page 9

St. John Nursing Division’s Annual Inspection

At the Ambulance Hall on Thursday Mr. W. Bourne, Commissioner of St. John, inspected the Central Nursing Division, the Gonville Nursing Division, and the Transport Division. He was supported by District Superintendent Mr. George Scott, Lady District Officer Miss A. McCarthy, Corps Supt. Mr. H. Reardon, Lady Corps Supt. Miss U. Freeman. Corps Officer Mrs. M. Simpson was in charge of the parade. Addressing the large number of Ambulance sisters present, the Commissioner complimented them, not only on their drill and appearance, but on the efficiency of thgir work, which through the years remained at. I its high standard; and also on the fidelity with which public duties were attended—-a no small achievement for busy people in the present difficult times. He then presented a Warrant of Office as divisional officer Io Miss Kathleen Lockett, Gonville N.D., and the five years’ bar to Service Medal to Miss Freeman. Miss McCarthy and Miss Freeman also briefly voiced their pleasure at meeting the divisions near the close of another year and their recognition of the high standard of work and morale existing, which undoubtedly held the divisions united in their common cause.

Members then gave demonstrations of hand seat drills (for emergency transport), and various first aid treatments, the officers congratulating them on the high pitch of excellence reached in all their bandaging. The St. John Brigade is living proof of the fact that in this world today there are many thousands faithfully expertly and freely rendering service to their fellows—as the Brigade mottos say, “For the Faith; For the Service of Mankind.”

The evening concluded with supper and informal chat.