RN medic based at Yeovilton admitted to Order of St John
Warrant Officer (WO1) Simon Arter from Bath has been admitted into the Venerable Order of Saint John in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the delivery of healthcare to patients deployed on operations.
WO1 Simon Arter, a Medical Assisi tent (MA) currently serving in the Medical Centre at Royal Naval Air (RNAS) Yeovilton was recognised for his outstanding role within the Royal Navy throughout 30 years of medical service as he attended his investiture in The Priory Church, St Johns Square, London with his 15 year old Son.
WO1 Arter said, “The investiture was very moving, in a wonderful setting, the church standing on the site of the original round church built by the Knights of St John and consecrated in 1185.
“The ceremony consisted of Prayers first then the investiture by the Chief Prior of the most venerable order of the hospital of St John of Jerusalem, the medal.”
Her Majesty The Queen as Sovereign Head of the Order, honours individuals with admission. The objects of the Order are:
• The encouragement of all that makes for the spiritual and moral strengthening of mankind in accordance with their motto ‘Pro Fide’ (For the Faith)
• The encouragement and promotion of all work of humanity and charity for the relief of persons in sickness, distress, suffering or danger, without consideration of race, class or creed in accordance with our second motto ‘Pro Utilitate Hominium ‘ (For the Service of Humanity).
On receiving this highest of honour within his profession WO Arter said “I feel extremely proud having been awarded this medal and very emotional as this is investiture marks one year since my Father Stanley Arter passed away.
“My Father had links with Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton as an employee in the motor transport section. Dads core values for caring are definitely in the Arter family genes”.
WO Arter current responsibility, following 30 years of quite extraordinary health care delivery throughout the world, sees him ensuring that deployed personnel have the full spectrum of medical material needed to care for our casualties.
Throughout, he has worked exceptionally long and demanding hours, responding to meet ever increasing demands and his selfless and exceptional personal qualities ensure that critical requirements are efficiently and effectively delivered.
Often in the most austere situations WO Arter has utilized remarkable fortitude, stamina and commitment to implement and deliver outstanding care. He is described as a true humanitarian, consistently and unswervingly focused himself and those of his team.
Surgeon Commander Marcus Philpott the current Principle Medical Officer at RNAS Yeovilton said of WO Arter “he is a benchmark for excellence in service, delivery whether procurement, equipment or front line patient care. He has been and continues to be a stalwart to the Fleet Air Arm”.
A dedicated individual at a time of heightened operational tempo WO Arter has delivered significantly over and above what is expected during 30 years of service, with exceptional commitment, ability and dedication to healthcare worldwide.