Anthony Shaw (British Army officer) facts for kids

Major General Anthony John Shaw was a senior officer in the British Army. He was the top doctor for the Army Medical Services from 1988 to 1990. He was born on July 13, 1930, and passed away on July 27, 2015.

Early Life and Education

Anthony John Shaw was born in 1930. His father was also an army officer. From 1943 to 1948, he attended Epsom College, a school in Surrey, England.

At school, he was a talented athlete. He played for the school's rugby and hockey teams. He also showed a strong interest in science, winning a prize for botany.

In 1950, he went to Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge University. He studied medicine there. He also trained at Westminster Hospital Medical School. He became a qualified doctor in 1954. He earned his medical degree from Cambridge in 1955. After university, he worked at Westminster Hospital and Kingston Hospital. This was part of his early medical training.

Joining the Army

In 1956, Anthony Shaw joined the British Army. This was part of his national service. He became a lieutenant in the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC). The RAMC is the part of the army that provides medical care.

He quickly moved from national service to a full-time army career. In 1957, he was promoted to captain. By 1962, he had become a major. During these early years, he traveled a lot. He was posted to places like Malta, Berlin, Malaya, and Nepal.

Rising Through the Ranks

Anthony Shaw continued to advance in his military career. In 1969, he became a lieutenant colonel. He commanded a medical unit called 28 Field Ambulance. He also worked as a chief instructor at the RAMC Training Centre.

Later, he worked at the Ministry of Defence. This is where the UK government manages its armed forces. From 1977 to 1979, he was the commanding officer of Cambridge Military Hospital. He was promoted to colonel in 1978. After this, he led medical services for the 2nd Infantry Division in Germany.

Becoming a General

In 1981, Anthony Shaw became a brigadier. This is a high rank, similar to a one-star general. He managed medical supplies for the army. He also served as the Deputy Director General of Army Medical Services.

He focused on community and occupational medicine for the army. In 1985, he was promoted to major general. This is a two-star general rank. From 1988 to 1990, he held the most important medical role in the army. He was the Director General of the Army Medical Services. He retired from the British Army in 1991.

Life After the Army

After leaving the army, Anthony Shaw continued his medical work. From 1995 to 2005, he was the President of the Standing Medical Board in Aldershot. This board helps decide on medical matters.

He passed away on July 27, 2015, at the age of 85. He had been unwell for some time.

Family Life

In 1961, Anthony Shaw married Gillian Best. They had one son and one daughter together.

Awards and Recognition

Anthony Shaw received several important honours for his service.

• In 1983, he was named an Honorary Physician to the Queen (QHP). This is a special title given to top military doctors.
• In 1985, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). This award recognizes important contributions to public service.
• In 1988, he was appointed a Companion of the Order of the Bath (CB). This is another high honour for military officers.