Honoring Service: Former Army Medic Carries Book of Remembrance at Festival of Remembrance
In a moving display of respect and remembrance, former Army medic Hayley Lawrence carried the Book of Remembrance at the annual Festival of Remembrance held at the Royal Albert Hall. Lawrence, who served as a combat medical technician for 20 years, was deeply honored by the opportunity, describing the experience as a “huge honor.” The Book of Remembrance is a lasting tribute, listing the names of soldiers who lost their lives in military conflicts.
A Journey of Service and Sacrifice
Hayley Lawrence, from Belper in Derbyshire, dedicated two decades of her life to military service. During a tour in Afghanistan in 2011, she survived a devastating explosion that claimed the life of her lieutenant. This event not only marked a turning point in her career but also left her with profound memories of comrades lost. Following her medical discharge, she transitioned to a new role as a clinical nurse educator at the Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
A Powerful Reconnection: Walking with Alex Lowe
In a touching reunion, Lawrence carried the Book of Remembrance alongside Alex Lowe, a veteran she once treated after the 2011 explosion in Afghanistan. The two had not seen each other in over a decade since serving together in the 1st Battalion, The Rifles. Their moment on stage was accompanied by a heartfelt performance of Rise Up by singer Alexandra Burke, making the tribute even more poignant.
Reflecting on the moment, Lawrence shared: "To be able to do it with him was indescribable. I know quite a few names in that book, so it was an honor to carry it for their families and place it on their behalf.”
An Overwhelming Tribute: Standing Ovation from the Royal Albert Hall
The emotional ceremony reached its peak as the curtains opened to reveal Lawrence and Lowe, receiving a standing ovation from a crowd filled with veterans, active military members, and civilians. Lawrence described the moment as “overwhelming,” especially with King Charles and other members of the Royal Family standing to applaud them. The applause, she noted, served as both a reminder of the sacrifices made by many and a source of closure for her own journey.
Finding Healing Through Service: Lawrence’s Transition to Mental Health Nursing
After her military service, Lawrence turned her focus to mental health nursing, inspired by her own experience with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She pursued therapy, which not only helped her but also inspired her to help others experiencing similar challenges. Now a qualified mental health nurse, she assists in training student doctors in psychiatric care, providing them with insights into the unique mental health needs of veterans.
“I really took to therapy and realized that helping others in this way was what I wanted to do,” she said. Her transition to mental health nursing is a testament to her dedication to service, both in and out of the military.
A Tribute to Service and Sacrifice
For Hayley Lawrence, carrying the Book of Remembrance symbolized closure, honor, and a deep connection to those she served alongside. As she and Alex Lowe walked through the Royal Albert Hall, they represented the resilience of veterans and the importance of remembering those who sacrificed their lives. The Festival of Remembrance serves as a powerful reminder of the lives dedicated to service and the ongoing need to support veterans, ensuring their contributions and sacrifices are never forgotten