After nearly half a century supporting veterans the vice president of a Spalding group has become the first woman to land a prestigious award.
Yvonne Crawford joined the Spalding Royal Naval Association alongside her veteran husband Keith.
Now she’s the first woman and only second overall to be given the Associate Lifetime Achievement Award.
“I’m very honoured because it’s a new award from the association,” said Yvonne whose previous roles include 13 years as treasurer, welfare officer and branch delegate at national conferences.
“The RNA, both locally and nationally has been like another family for me.
“We’re all here for each and I’ve particularly seen that since I lost my husband.”
Keith Crawford was awarded the MBE for his work in chairing the Spalding branch of the RNA for 37 years alongside national roles including being an overseas representative. He died last year aged 85.
Andy Christie, the national chair of the RNA was in attendance to present the award in front of naval association members and Yvonne’s two oldest granddaughters.
He joked that the award ‘righted the wrong’ of her not getting an MBE alongside her husband.
“It’s an absolute and tremendous pleasure to award the Associate Life Award,” he said. “Yvonne has done so much for Spalding, the area and nationally.
“We wanted to recognise how fantastic she has been.
“Whenever Keith went off and did something, Yvonne supported him all this time.”
The group’s Rodney Grocock said: “Yvonne played a vital role in Keith’s work, acting as his secretary and accompanying him on RNA duties across the country, driving many thousands of miles in support of the association.
“Over the years she became well known and highly respected by shipmates nationwide.
“The Spalding Royal Naval Association is immensely proud of Yvonne and her lifelong commitment to the RNA.”
