Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Brize Norton, visited the Tactical Medical Wing (TMW) as part of a special reception celebrating
the Wings 30th anniversary.
Accompanied by senior representatives, including the Director General of the Defence Medical Services, Commander Global Enablement, Head RAF Medical Services, and several former TMW Commanding Officers, The Princess Royal joined TMW personnel in commemorating this significant milestone.
During her visit, HRH The Princess Royal toured the operational Wing, reflecting on 30 years of unwavering commitment to delivering care and comfort to those in need. The visit featured demonstrations of some of the Wing’s most renowned capabilities, showcasing the expertise and innovation that have defined TMW’s legacy.
“For 30 years, Tactical Medical Wing has built a formidable heritage of lifesaving capability, rooted in decades of service, innovation and courage. Today, that legacy is delivered by phenomenal people – our regular, reserve and civilian colleagues – working together as One Team. Ready to respond whenever and wherever they are needed with global reach - they operate in the most demanding environments, combining clinical excellence with compassion and leadership under pressure to deliver care and comfort when it matters most. They exemplify the very best of Service, and I am immensely proud – and deeply humbled – to command them.”
Wing Commander Rosie
Officer Commanding Tactical Medical Wing.
In recognition of past and present achievements, HRH The Princess Royal met with current and former Wing members before delivering a speech to acknowledge TMW’s rich history, vital current role, and its ongoing significance to Defence. Notably, this celebration held extra meaning as TMW was unable to mark its 25th anniversary due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
In addition to commemorating three decades of service, this year marks two other significant milestones for Tactical Medical Wing and Defence Medical Services. The Critical Care Air Support Team celebrates its 25th anniversary, while the Medical Emergency Response Team reaches 20 years of operation. Both units have been instrumental in revolutionising battlefield medicine, introducing advanced techniques and rapid-response capabilities that ensure injured personnel receive lifesaving care in even the most challenging environments.
"As we mark the 30th anniversary of Tactical Medical Wing, we honour three decades of unwavering commitment to saving lives in the most challenging environments. This year also sees us celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Critical Care Air Support Team and the 20th anniversary of the Medical Emergency Response Team, two pioneering capabilities that have transformed the delivery of battlefield medicine. Together, these milestones reflect the extraordinary dedication, innovation and professionalism of our RAF Medical Personnel, both regular and reserves, who continue to set the highest standards for global medical support. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all past and present members for their service and sacrifice." .
Air Commodore Hamilton
Commander RAF Global Enablement
Tactical Medical Wing is central to the RAF’s operational excellence, delivering world class medical support worldwide. Its integrated skills, commitment to safety and quality, and investment in personnel ensure the RAF is ready for present and future challenges, safeguarding personnel and supporting Air and Space operations.
