Alice Ross-King

Alice Ross-King

Alice Ross-King (5 August 1887 – 17 August 1968) was one of the most decorated female service members in Australian history, serving as a nurse during World War I. Her remarkable service earned her the Royal Red Cross and Associate (ARRC) and the Military Medal, making her an iconic figure in the annals of Australian military history and nursing history.

Early Life

Alice Ross-King was born in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia. Before the outbreak of World War I, she trained as a nurse, a profession that would define her contributions during the tumultuous years of the early 20th century.

World War I Service

With the onset of World War I, Alice enlisted in the Australian Army Nursing Service (AANS) and was deployed to various theatres of the war, including Egypt and the Western Front in Europe. Her service was characterized by bravery and dedication, particularly during the German air raid on the No. 2 Australian Casualty Clearing Station in Trois Arbres, France, on the night of 22 July 1917. Her actions during this raid, where she tended to wounded soldiers despite the danger, earned her the Military Medal, a rare honor for a nurse.

Post-War Life and Legacy

After the war, Alice Ross-King continued her nursing career and remained active in veteran affairs. She married and had a family, but the legacy of her wartime service lived on through her involvement in organizations such as the Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL). Alice Ross-King's story has been the subject of books and documentaries, highlighting her contributions to nursing and the military during a critical period in history.

Death and Recognition

Alice Ross-King passed away on 17 August 1968. Her life and service have been commemorated in various ways, including the naming of facilities and awards in her honor. She remains a symbol of courage and dedication in the face of adversity, embodying the spirit of Australian nurses who served in World War I. Template:Australian-biography-stub