Veterans Outreach Support is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our beloved Queen. We join all those who are mourning her sad loss at this time.
Her Majesty’s faithful service to our nation embodied so many of the values we aspire to at VOS. Her heartfelt goodwill towards all people, her ability to put others at ease through kindness and humour, and her respect for those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces will continue to inspire us.
A veteran herself, Her Majesty was the first female member of the Royal Family to join the Armed Services as a full-time active member. She served as a Subaltern in the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) in 1945, eventually progressing to the rank of Honorary Junior Commander upon completing training as a mechanic and truck driver.
In recent years, she admitted to joining the street celebrations on VE Day with a hard-earned sense of relief:
“I pulled my uniform cap well down over my eyes…I remember lines of unknown people linking arms and walking down Whitehall, and all of us were swept along by tides of happiness.”
We have all been lucky to call her our Queen and our Commander in Chief, and sincerely appreciate her unwavering dedication and faithful service to our nation and people.
– VOS
Read our message about how the period of national mourning will affect our activities, groups and events.
