The Lieutenant-Governor of Guernsey, Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell CB, CBE, has been appointed a Commander of the Most Venerable Order of St John of Jerusalem in an appointment that was formally announced on Thursday 9th March in The Gazette, the official public record, having been sanctioned by His Majesty King Charles III, as the Sovereign Head of the Order.
The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem has its roots in a hospice in Jerusalem in the 11th century. Today the international charity provides health care and support in more than forty countries through a dedicated team of around 250,000 volunteers and staff. In addition to being commissioned to provide the Emergency Ambulance Service in Guernsey and Alderney, St John Guernsey’s further charitable services include first aid volunteers, the Flying Christine marine ambulance, the Badger and Cadet youth programme, Community First Responders, Caring Callers, the Community Library and first aid training.
An individual can be admitted to the Order for outstanding service to St John in recognition of achievement, notable or selfless service or inspiration and encouragement to others. There are five Grades of membership Member, Officer, Commander, Knight or Dame and Bailiff or Dame Grand Cross.
“It is a great honour to have been appointed a Commander of the Order of St John” said His Excellency, “The Priory makes a remarkable contribution worldwide and is an essential part of the community in the Bailiwick. The work done by so many volunteers is impressive and I am a great believer in everything that they do. I have thoroughly enjoyed the engagements I have had with them and will continue to do my utmost to support their work here and further afield.”
John Hollis, Knight Commander of St John in the Bailiwick of Guernsey, said “Members of St John in Guernsey are delighted that the support His Excellency Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell provides in visits, encouragement and awards ceremonies for both the emergency services and St John volunteers has been recognised by His Majesty King Charles III in his appointment as Commander in the Venerable Order of St John.”
