Extraordinary born-again
Born in Queensland in 1893, Alice Ethel Imison devoted her life to helping others. Far more than a nurse, Alice was a fearless leader in some of history's darkest moments.
Alice completed her nursing training at Rockhampton Hospital by the age of 24. Soon after, she signed up for the Australian Army Nursing Service and headed off to World War 1. It was a time of chaos and heartbreak, but Alice stood strong, caring for wounded soldiers in hospitals across England, India and what is now Pakistan. ⛑
She returned to Australia after the war, but when World War II started, she stepped forward once again, this time joining Queen Alexandra’s Imperial Nursing Service.
In 1940, she was sent into the heart of the conflict in France. She was awarded the Royal Red Cross Medal for her bravery and service during the evacuation of Dunkirk.
Her journey didn't stop there. She went on to serve in Egypt, Italy and Belgium, continuing to care for soldiers and civilians until 1948. Alice wasn't just a healer, but an advocate, working to improve nursing standards and champion the wellbeing of nurses.
Her legacy lives on through her contributions to nursing and her extraordinary service to our country. ❤️
📷 State Library of Queensland
ℹ️ Source: State Library Queensland. Virtual War Memorial Australia.