79 years in St John
Recognising Dennis Parker MBE KStJ JP
Essex is immensely fortunate to be home to several Knights of Grace, and at the end of June we
recognised Dennis Parker who has decided to retire after 79 years of service. In 1941 he joined Grays’ Cadets and after a stint in the Royal Marines he re-joined as an adult becoming Cadet Superintendent in the late 50's. In the early 60's he took over leadership of Grays' Ambulance Division until 1974 when he became Area Superintendent, and in 1980 he became Southern Area Commissioner and then County Commander in 1993.
recognised Dennis Parker who has decided to retire after 79 years of service. In 1941 he joined Grays’ Cadets and after a stint in the Royal Marines he re-joined as an adult becoming Cadet Superintendent in the late 50's. In the early 60's he took over leadership of Grays' Ambulance Division until 1974 when he became Area Superintendent, and in 1980 he became Southern Area Commissioner and then County Commander in 1993.
In addition he started the Sandon St John Fellowship and has raised funds for the St John Eye
Hospital ever since. In addition to being a Knight of St John, he also has an OBE and served many years as a local Magistrate.
Although less active now, he is still passionate about St John and will happily tell you the best way to tie an arm sling or prepare a dressing. Countless volunteers have been encouraged and educated by Dennis over the years – and as one commented “He is a true gent”.
On 26th June 2021, he was presented with a fourth bar for his gold service medal in the presence of
the Lord Lieutenant of Essex and the Chancellor Mick Messenger,. A fitting recognition of a lifetime of service.
Hospital ever since. In addition to being a Knight of St John, he also has an OBE and served many years as a local Magistrate.
Although less active now, he is still passionate about St John and will happily tell you the best way to tie an arm sling or prepare a dressing. Countless volunteers have been encouraged and educated by Dennis over the years – and as one commented “He is a true gent”.
On 26th June 2021, he was presented with a fourth bar for his gold service medal in the presence of
the Lord Lieutenant of Essex and the Chancellor Mick Messenger,. A fitting recognition of a lifetime of service.