She was one of a number of military personnel who were granted state honours for their work in the Armed Forces. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “Congratulations to our remarkable Armed Forces personnel who have been granted state honours by Her Majesty the Queen in the Birthday Honours List (October 2020).

Our service men and women have done our nation proud by standing ready to protect Britain from all threats, including Covid-19. I’m grateful for their commitment and dedication, and it is great to see it recognised today.” 

Louise said she was “humbled and delighted” by the award.  If the investiture can go ahead, she hopes to attend the ceremony at Windsor Castle, which is near where she grew up. She said she still feels grateful to her old Head Mistress Miss Candy and rowing coach Beryl Crockford: “Their influence has extended way beyond school,” said Louise. “Beryl in particular, had an amazing drive and a determination to go out and make the most of life, which was truly inspiring.”

Louise displays an impressive drive of her own, heading up the welfare duty of care for all Navy personnel undertaking training at HMS Raleigh to ensure they are fully prepared and qualified for the job, with over 1500 trainees across six different schools. “It can be quite a challenge,” she said, “But it’s very rewarding work.”

Heartfelt congratulations to Louise from all of us.