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Young nurse from Bury awarded MBE for outstanding service to remembrance and emergency care

Saturday, 14 June 2025 07:58

By David Murphy

A 31 year old critical care nurse and Army reservist from Bury has been named in the King’s Birthday Honours for his extraordinary unpaid work supporting the ex-service community at state events.

John Joseph William Thornhill, a critical care nurse in A&E and an Army Reserve nursing officer from Bury, has been awarded an MBE in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for services to the ex-service community and national events.

Since May 2020, Thornhill has served as the National Parade Marshal for the Royal British Legion (RBL), leading parade marshals and standard bearers at landmark occasions including the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III.

The role is typically held by retired individuals with extensive ceremonial experience, but Thornhill has taken it on voluntarily and in his early 30s, alongside a demanding career on the frontline of emergency healthcare.

He is credited with building strong working relationships with over 2,000 RBL standard bearers and marshals, ensuring their impeccable presentation at high-profile state ceremonies watched by millions around the world. His personal commitment, depth of knowledge, and organisational excellence have made him a standout figure in both civilian and military circles.

In response to the honour, Thornhill said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to be awarded an MBE in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours. This recognition is not only a personal privilege but also a reflection of the incredible support and inspiration I’ve received from those who I have worked with during my tenure ship.

“Being appointed the National Parade Marshal of The Royal British Legion has been an extraordinary honour and the greatest privilege. I am deeply honoured to be able to contribute to Remembrance and the Armed Forces Community as a whole.”

As the youngest person to have held the post in living memory, Thornhill has reshaped perceptions of what ceremonial leadership can look like—bridging tradition and modern service through dedication, professionalism and humility.

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