Robin McMahon, a military nurse and NHS veteran, attended special VE Day 80th anniversary events in the capital.
A special invite for a special occasion
A Stone resident was among the invited guests at two high-profile commemorative events in London to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.
Robin McMahon, who works for The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, joined dignitaries, veterans, and fellow medical professionals at a special service in St Paul’s Cathedral on Thursday 8th May.
The service included music, readings, and prayers, honouring those who served in the Second World War and those who continue to serve today.
Decades of service recognised
Robin brings with him almost 40 years of experience in the NHS and 15 years in military service. He currently serves as a Senior Nursing Officer with the 306 Hospital Support Regiment, part of the Royal Army Medical Corps.
The regiment delivers specialist healthcare not usually found in field hospitals, including maternity, gynaecology, and sexual health services. Robin also plays a role in inspecting standards across these military medical units.
He said: “There’s a huge variety to what we do – the staff are really dedicated and enthusiastic. The beauty of the military is everyone is so motivated and wanting to do their best to help others.”
A moving concert at Horse Guards Parade
Following the service at St Paul’s, Robin attended an evening concert at Horse Guards Parade, where King Charles addressed the crowd.
“The concert last night was spectacular,” Robin said. “The atmosphere was very special, where those gathered knew it was a unique occasion – especially with the veterans of World War II and survivors of the blitz in attendance. It was a real privilege.”
From Staffordshire to Afghanistan
Robin’s career began in Staffordshire, where he trained as a nurse before taking on paediatric roles in London, Birmingham, and Wolverhampton. He started his military career in the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps, caring for soldiers both in the UK and overseas.
He later became a Specialist Nurse Advisor and then Defence Specialist Advisor in paediatrics. His deployments have included Afghanistan and Poland, and in 2022, he received the Platinum Jubilee Medal, awarded to frontline service members across the emergency services and armed forces.
A lifetime of care and commitment
As a member of the Worshipful Company of Nurses, Robin’s invitation to attend VE Day commemorations reflects both his military and civilian contributions. As an Army reservist, he remains ready to serve when called upon.
Robin’s story is a reminder of the dedication shown by so many in the Stone community, both in and out of uniform.
