Caring for our armed forces people

Published on: 22 August 2023

Becoming the oldest female the British Army has recruited has brought immense satisfaction and a deep sense of achievement to the Revd (Capt.) Ailsa Whorton, as has following her two children into the army.

She is currently serving as chaplain to 1st The Queen’s Dragoons Guards and this Cavalry Regiment, founded in 1685, has been home to Ailsa for the last year.

“As their chaplain I am called to love them,” says Ailsa. “We ask so much of them – they are prepared to sacrifice their lives for their country.” As chaplain, being a trusted member of the regiment, Ailsa is often asked to pray for specific needs. One such request came as they prepared for the King’s Coronation, “Please pray for our feet!” This may seem rather an unusual request, but as Ailsa explained, they drilled for 12-15 hours a day in preparation, and often, their feet would literally bleed.


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