Wolverhampton Nurse enjoys VE Day 80 in London
Date of release: 9 May 2025
A healthcare worker from The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust secured a place at two special VE Day events in London to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.
Robin McMahon inside St Paul's Cathedral
Robin McMahon, Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, has served 15 years in the military, and almost 40 years in the NHS.
He currently serves as a Senior Nursing Officer for 306 Hospital Support Regiment – part of the Royal Army Medical Corps, based near York.
Alongside a wider team, Robin delivers specialist healthcare not normally available in field hospitals (rapidly deployable healthcare facilities set up in conflicts or natural disasters).
The regiment provides experts in areas such as Sexual Health, Gynaecology, and Maternity, while also carrying out inspections of field hospitals to ensure a high standard of service delivery.
He explained: “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.”
In recognition of his military role, he was invited to attend the special service held at St Paul’s Cathedral on Thursday 8 May, which included readings, music and bespoke prayers celebrating the resilience and fortitude of those who served, and continue to serve, our country.
Robin McMahon at the VE day celebrations
He attended as a member of the Worshipful Company of Nurses which aims to enhance the professional knowledge of its members, to fund and support charitable and benevolent causes.
The VE Day celebrations continued with a concert at Horse Guards Parade, at which King Charles gave a speech.
He said: “The concert last night (Thursday) was spectacular. The atmosphere was very special, where those gathered knew it was a unique occasion – especially with the veterans of World Ward II and survivors of the blitz in attendance. It was a real privilege.”
Robin originally qualified as a Registered General Nurse having trained in Staffordshire, before taking up paediatric roles in London, Birmingham, and Wolverhampton.
His first military role was in the Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps, providing medical care to soldiers both in the UK and overseas. He has since held critical posts including Specialist Nurse Advisor (Paediatrics), and later as Defence Specialist Advisor (Paediatrics).
His deployments include posts in Afghanistan and Poland, with his efforts recognised in 2022 with the Platinum Jubilee Medal. This was awarded to serving frontline members of the police, fire, emergency services, prison services and the Armed Forces.
As an Army reservist, he can be recalled in times of need to come back and join operations alongside regular soldiers.
