The parents of a young paramedic who tragically passed away in an ambulance collision at the age of 21 have expressed their deep appreciation for the recognition of their daughter’s service with an Elizabeth Emblem. Gill and Graeme Clark, residents of Kent, will receive the award on behalf of their late daughter Alice, who lost her life on January 5, 2022.
The prestigious Elizabeth Emblem is granted by the King to the families of public servants who have made the ultimate sacrifice while on duty. Alice Clark, an employee of the South East Coast Ambulance Service, met her untimely end in an accident involving the ambulance she was in and a cement lorry on the A21 near Sevenoaks, Kent.
The emblem, akin to the military’s Elizabeth Cross honoring fallen Armed Forces members, symbolizes the sacrifice made by individuals in public service. The Clarks, along with other emblem recipients’ families, met with Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, at Number 10 Downing Street.
Reflecting on their daughter’s dedication to her role as a paramedic, the Clarks shared their pride in Alice’s commitment to helping others. They recounted the heartbreaking moment when they received the news of her passing, emphasizing Alice’s passion for her job and her selfless nature.
Alice had immersed herself in caring roles during the pandemic and had a vibrant personality with a sharp sense of humor, according to her mother. The Clarks expressed their gratitude for the recognition of their daughter’s service through the emblem, describing it as a significant honor.
The Clarks will be presented with a silver oval emblem inscribed with “For a life given in service,” encircled by a rosemary wreath symbolizing remembrance and featuring a Tudor crown. Alice’s name will be engraved on the reverse side of the emblem.
During the meeting, the Clarks were joined by relatives of Stephanie Davies, a lollipop lady who lost her life in a tragic incident in 2006. Additionally, discussions were held with the family of Jonathan White, who tragically passed away in 1986 due to severe injuries sustained while setting up Christmas decorations. An inquest ruled his death as accidental, with the council accepting responsibility for the incident.
