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Anyone in the royal marines or have knowledge of them I would be keen to hear from...
. I am 17 and am fed up with this dull predictable civi way of life. I am a year behind due to being educated abroad and so am only just finishing my gcse's. I am obsessed with pushing my limits in fitness and am always doing adventurous activities like climbing. I am familiar with fear and have fully considered the death or serious injury potential as a royal marine. That said, the pride and way of life in the RM very much seems to suit me. Going in as an officer in the RM doesn't particularly appeal to me as I can see myself building up from the bottom.
. Would you recommend a career in the royal marines?
. Would I get a fair amount of time off to continue my passion for climbing (e.g. weekends, holidays?)
. Are the specialisations such as aircrew possible to get into (or do they press for people to remain as general duties marines?)
. Any other main info I should know?
(**I have posted many times about joining the services and have received some lengthy responses which I appreciate tons, thanks again to you guys and ignore this thread and any future ones, I haven't forgotten all the info you've given me!**)
. I am 17 and am fed up with this dull predictable civi way of life. I am a year behind due to being educated abroad and so am only just finishing my gcse's. I am obsessed with pushing my limits in fitness and am always doing adventurous activities like climbing. I am familiar with fear and have fully considered the death or serious injury potential as a royal marine. That said, the pride and way of life in the RM very much seems to suit me. Going in as an officer in the RM doesn't particularly appeal to me as I can see myself building up from the bottom.
. Would you recommend a career in the royal marines?
. Would I get a fair amount of time off to continue my passion for climbing (e.g. weekends, holidays?)
. Are the specialisations such as aircrew possible to get into (or do they press for people to remain as general duties marines?)
. Any other main info I should know?
(**I have posted many times about joining the services and have received some lengthy responses which I appreciate tons, thanks again to you guys and ignore this thread and any future ones, I haven't forgotten all the info you've given me!**)
In reply to Stanners:
No knowledge of the marines at all, but...
from the point of view I imagine of a 17 year old who is impressionable and not really philosophically or viscerally aware of what DEAD actually means.
Good luck mate. Don't shoot me if you end up on home soil defending against your own people!
No knowledge of the marines at all, but...
> I have fully considered the death or serious injury potential as a royal marine
from the point of view I imagine of a 17 year old who is impressionable and not really philosophically or viscerally aware of what DEAD actually means.
Good luck mate. Don't shoot me if you end up on home soil defending against your own people!
In reply to Stanners: Mate go to your careers office, the Marines Mountain and Arctic warfare cadre will ensure that climbing will be a part of your job.
But its a desperately hard course to pass and im not too sure but you'd probably have to serve an alotted time as a marine first.
Im in the Army and know that no where in our service save the PT Corps can you specialise in Adventure Training, you will find some jobs that will allow you to follow your passion, normally in the Supporting Corps.
As a Paratrooper this pains me to say, if you want to join the forces and climb as part of your job the marines is the place to do it, i was just sick in my mouth
But its a desperately hard course to pass and im not too sure but you'd probably have to serve an alotted time as a marine first.
Im in the Army and know that no where in our service save the PT Corps can you specialise in Adventure Training, you will find some jobs that will allow you to follow your passion, normally in the Supporting Corps.
As a Paratrooper this pains me to say, if you want to join the forces and climb as part of your job the marines is the place to do it, i was just sick in my mouth
In reply to Stanners:
Hi fella,
Im in the application process for the Royal Marines at the minute.
Its hard work, i went for my PRMC in February. Fell quite bad on some ice, got injured and knackered my knee. Get my MRI results tomorrow morning. Therefore first bit of advice: You can be as fit as a fiddle but you can still get injured.
I would 100% recommend a career in the Marines, People will post on here about "your joining to die" "we should be at war" etc... Ignore it, if you want to be a Royal Marine deep down, you will know you want to do it, no matter what anyone says.
Time off, as with any of the forces is as and when (I'm a current serving Royal Navy Reserve). However like myself many join the Royal Navy, Royal Navy Mountaineering Club. Also There is plenty of time for Adventurous Training. If your very dedicated to climbing, mountaineering, then look into your branches, My aim is to join as a Mountain Leader, hard work but worth it.
Specialisation wise, if its still the same, usually you become a general duties marine for 2 years, then specialise, as for aircrew, i have never looked into it. Always been stuck on Mountain Leader as already stated.
Only thing i can think of is, if you think your fit... trust me train harder, and harder, then when your blitzing the hill sprints, put someone on your back and sprint up the hill even quicker.
Any questions re anything just ask.
Rob
Hi fella,
Im in the application process for the Royal Marines at the minute.
Its hard work, i went for my PRMC in February. Fell quite bad on some ice, got injured and knackered my knee. Get my MRI results tomorrow morning. Therefore first bit of advice: You can be as fit as a fiddle but you can still get injured.
I would 100% recommend a career in the Marines, People will post on here about "your joining to die" "we should be at war" etc... Ignore it, if you want to be a Royal Marine deep down, you will know you want to do it, no matter what anyone says.
Time off, as with any of the forces is as and when (I'm a current serving Royal Navy Reserve). However like myself many join the Royal Navy, Royal Navy Mountaineering Club. Also There is plenty of time for Adventurous Training. If your very dedicated to climbing, mountaineering, then look into your branches, My aim is to join as a Mountain Leader, hard work but worth it.
Specialisation wise, if its still the same, usually you become a general duties marine for 2 years, then specialise, as for aircrew, i have never looked into it. Always been stuck on Mountain Leader as already stated.
Only thing i can think of is, if you think your fit... trust me train harder, and harder, then when your blitzing the hill sprints, put someone on your back and sprint up the hill even quicker.
Any questions re anything just ask.
Rob
In reply to Stanners: I've not got first hand experience of being in the marines but I know that you can specialise as a mountain leader within the marines, I don't know if this is the same as an ML qualification on Civi street or if it is more than that. but it's worth going to a careers office and asking.
In reply to Stanners: go to a careers office speak to someone who's serving,attend a potential recruits course, see if you like it, then you've got to get through training, then consider your options, aircrew, Ml, all of which you will have needed to have done at least a couple of years minimum, best of luck... oh will get lots of time off but you will also spend six months of the year away... in sunny places
In reply to EZ: Hence, the reason they aim most of their recruitment advertising at kids in their late teens to early twenties.
In reply to Stanners: Any advice you need about mil aircrew can be found here http://www.pprune.org/military-aircrew-57/
Do a bit of research first before asking any questions on "pprune" as guys can get a bit pissed off with the usual questions being asked.
Good luck in your future career, whatever it may be.
Do a bit of research first before asking any questions on "pprune" as guys can get a bit pissed off with the usual questions being asked.
Good luck in your future career, whatever it may be.
In reply to poeticshambles: you could not pass the training you have to be young its to hard for pensioners like yourself
In reply to poeticshambles:
Can we genuinely keep one topic, about frontline troops, away from the fact of, kids joining don't know what they are doing, hence they join... die etc...
All those who join are FULLY Briefed in regards the dangers, they wont go frontline until minimum of 18.
I think rather than another thread turning into a "Dont do it you'll die, your too young to decide" thread, just help a young lad who is making a positive move towards the forces rather than becoming another job centre statistic like most young people now days.
Can we genuinely keep one topic, about frontline troops, away from the fact of, kids joining don't know what they are doing, hence they join... die etc...
All those who join are FULLY Briefed in regards the dangers, they wont go frontline until minimum of 18.
I think rather than another thread turning into a "Dont do it you'll die, your too young to decide" thread, just help a young lad who is making a positive move towards the forces rather than becoming another job centre statistic like most young people now days.
In reply to EZ: I know lets have an Army with only over 40's....
In reply to Stanners: why the no officer thing? If you join as an officer you can still work your way up, but the pay is better and I believe the long term prospects are greater, ie transfer to admin when your 30 odd and still have access to all the military facilities and adventurous training groups. I know that you can have a long career as an NCO but think by the same your 8 years(or whatever) is up you'll financially need to move on. I am thinking of joining up and hence have thought through the NCO v officer thing and I decided on officer.
In reply to Stanners:
My admittedly somewhat dated observations are that it is a lot easier to get to do the things that you want to do if you have at least some clout. At the very least, as a junior Marine officer you have the opportunity to go direct to the OC and ask to go on courses and to take a troop away to do something interesting. As an officer you also have a reason to go on ML courses (namely to get the quals to take the troop away somewhere interesting), but as a basic Marine you don't to nearly the same degree.
As a Marine, in the main you get to go where you're told and maybe something different if you're lucky; then work your way up and who knows.
Hanging out for M&AW is a long haul.
> Going in as an officer in the RM doesn't particularly appeal to me as I can see myself building up from the bottom.
>
Why build yourself up from the bottom of the Marine pile when you could build yourself up from the bottom of the Marine Officer pile?>
My admittedly somewhat dated observations are that it is a lot easier to get to do the things that you want to do if you have at least some clout. At the very least, as a junior Marine officer you have the opportunity to go direct to the OC and ask to go on courses and to take a troop away to do something interesting. As an officer you also have a reason to go on ML courses (namely to get the quals to take the troop away somewhere interesting), but as a basic Marine you don't to nearly the same degree.
As a Marine, in the main you get to go where you're told and maybe something different if you're lucky; then work your way up and who knows.
Hanging out for M&AW is a long haul.
In reply to dale1968:
Sorry mate, but in an ideal world I would prefer there were no army and that's where my posts on the subject come from.
I appreciate that other's have enjoyed their experience in the army, have got more than just fighting from it and see it as a way of upholding their responsibilities in a patriotic sense (I know there is value in other areas for some people as well) but for me, I just can't seem to get past the problem of the military's lead role being to slaughter other human beings and usually to suit the agenda of people who have nothing in common with the soldiers.
Sorry mate, but in an ideal world I would prefer there were no army and that's where my posts on the subject come from.
I appreciate that other's have enjoyed their experience in the army, have got more than just fighting from it and see it as a way of upholding their responsibilities in a patriotic sense (I know there is value in other areas for some people as well) but for me, I just can't seem to get past the problem of the military's lead role being to slaughter other human beings and usually to suit the agenda of people who have nothing in common with the soldiers.
In reply to EZ:
Anyway, I'm off topic now and ducking out. I was just being sardonic up thread and don't want to undermine the OP from getting the info they came for.
Good luck.
Anyway, I'm off topic now and ducking out. I was just being sardonic up thread and don't want to undermine the OP from getting the info they came for.
Good luck.
In reply to Stanners: I'm currently 19 and at university, I'm looking to join the Royal Marines when I finish university but in the meantime I'm in currently in training with the Royal Marines Reserve(RMR). It gives you the same training as the Royal Marines and if you complete it you get awarded the green Beret, but you only undergo training once a week and roughly 1 out of 3 weekends, thus leaving plenty of time to go climbing/mountaineering and continue your education if you want too. Having undergone training for about 9 months now I would fully recommend it, and indeed the Royal Marines as a whole, you can apply for specialisations and apply to go full-time if you want too or you can remain in the RMR and go on tours with the regular forces for 6 months. It gives you a lot of options and teaches you a lot about what life is like in the Marines. Failing that like the other people have said go to a careers office and ask for advice from them.
In reply to Stanners:
As usual with a lot of things people are mis-informed and without knowing a great deal are dishing out advice/ general crap.
Firstly i'll point out i've been a Royal Marine for 6 years.
Joining is the best thing I ever did, it has made me who I am today. I joined at 16, straight from school, so I get where you're coming from. The friendships/travel/opportunities that you get in the corps are one in a million, its a great life for anyone. That said, you also do some shit stuff; some drafts/specialisations are crap (think carefully when/if you decide). You have to be comfortable with going to war, Afghan; although it has relaxed now for the corps, it is still ongoing, and you could be deployed.
Time off- depends on what you are doing eg. build up for afghan etc you will have very little time off. If your unit is not too busy (not often) then you will probably have quite a bit of time off. If youre in the uk most weekends will be yours, as will nearly all weekday afternoons. (bear in mind the dewerstone is in spitting distance of 42 CDO).
Aircrew is a specialisation where you need to be a Corporal. That means you need to have served anywhere from 4 years onwards generally, then be selected for a juniour command course, then apply for aircrew. That said it is a good spec from what I have seen. As far as being 'pressed' to stay a GD marine, you'll be lucky. I will, and im sure plenty of other bootnecks will tell you GD is THE best branch in the corps without doubt. You will be lucky to do a year of GD without being 'pinged' into a crap specialisation. (again, put your chit in early for something you want to do).
If you want any more info, just mail me mate and GO FOR IT, IT'LL BE THE BEST THING YOU EVER DO.
Dave.
As usual with a lot of things people are mis-informed and without knowing a great deal are dishing out advice/ general crap.
Firstly i'll point out i've been a Royal Marine for 6 years.
Joining is the best thing I ever did, it has made me who I am today. I joined at 16, straight from school, so I get where you're coming from. The friendships/travel/opportunities that you get in the corps are one in a million, its a great life for anyone. That said, you also do some shit stuff; some drafts/specialisations are crap (think carefully when/if you decide). You have to be comfortable with going to war, Afghan; although it has relaxed now for the corps, it is still ongoing, and you could be deployed.
Time off- depends on what you are doing eg. build up for afghan etc you will have very little time off. If your unit is not too busy (not often) then you will probably have quite a bit of time off. If youre in the uk most weekends will be yours, as will nearly all weekday afternoons. (bear in mind the dewerstone is in spitting distance of 42 CDO).
Aircrew is a specialisation where you need to be a Corporal. That means you need to have served anywhere from 4 years onwards generally, then be selected for a juniour command course, then apply for aircrew. That said it is a good spec from what I have seen. As far as being 'pressed' to stay a GD marine, you'll be lucky. I will, and im sure plenty of other bootnecks will tell you GD is THE best branch in the corps without doubt. You will be lucky to do a year of GD without being 'pinged' into a crap specialisation. (again, put your chit in early for something you want to do).
If you want any more info, just mail me mate and GO FOR IT, IT'LL BE THE BEST THING YOU EVER DO.
Dave.
In reply to Stanners: Do it if you want to live the dream for a few years. Civi life is pretty slow by comparison, be mindful that you will probably drink more pi** than you thought possible tho and defo be right in the thick of it with the blokes. You will experience stuff most people can't imagine, good and bad.
But join the army, not the egg n beans
But join the army, not the egg n beans
In reply to Stanners: Don't join the army mate, whats the point?
In reply to Stanners:
I got an officer's bursary when I was 17. It was my ideal job at the time but I got fairly seriously injured and had to quit.
. Would you recommend a career in the royal marines?
Yes.
. Would I get a fair amount of time off to continue my passion for climbing (e.g. weekends, holidays?)
Once you've finished training yes, but don't expect lots of consitent time. You'll get big chunks rather than being able to say go climbing 3 times a week every week.
. Are the specialisations such as aircrew possible to get into (or do they press for people to remain as general duties marines?)
Train as a marine first, then decide.
. Any other main info I should know?
Your views might change as time goes by, mine have. I've visited countries as a tourist/climber that have military presence or are on the potential invasion list and met people who'd possibly end up being the ones firing back and it does make you re-consider. If you'd rather just see the world, you'll probably have a better time travelling to those countries as a tourist. If you want to fight for your country, be in one of the best trained units and the world and that's what you believe in then do it. Get fit, but don't get too fit before you go to training.
I got an officer's bursary when I was 17. It was my ideal job at the time but I got fairly seriously injured and had to quit.
. Would you recommend a career in the royal marines?
Yes.
. Would I get a fair amount of time off to continue my passion for climbing (e.g. weekends, holidays?)
Once you've finished training yes, but don't expect lots of consitent time. You'll get big chunks rather than being able to say go climbing 3 times a week every week.
. Are the specialisations such as aircrew possible to get into (or do they press for people to remain as general duties marines?)
Train as a marine first, then decide.
. Any other main info I should know?
Your views might change as time goes by, mine have. I've visited countries as a tourist/climber that have military presence or are on the potential invasion list and met people who'd possibly end up being the ones firing back and it does make you re-consider. If you'd rather just see the world, you'll probably have a better time travelling to those countries as a tourist. If you want to fight for your country, be in one of the best trained units and the world and that's what you believe in then do it. Get fit, but don't get too fit before you go to training.
In reply to Stanners: i think a career in the armed forces is ruined by killing in the name of corporate wealth. If it was simply defending your country against foreign invaders then great. Most people with an inkling of common sense are aware the real reason for invading other countries and killing their people. Welcome to the global police force. I do support the troops, wear a poppy etc. It's just a shame that the quality of candidate in the marines could not be utilised better on civi street. Good luck with whatever you choose.
In reply to Stanners: Ps there's a lot of lost limbed soldiers about, and quite a few war graves.
In reply to Stanners:
promotion is like rocking horse shit with the bootnecks. mind saying that its a good life as long as you dont mind spending your life on ships and getting contacted. get to your AFCO and have a chinwag with the RM fella there, they're a very proud (and sometimes arrogant) bunch
> Anyone in the royal marines or have knowledge of them I would be keen to hear from...
>
> . I am 17 and am fed up with this dull predictable civi way of life. I am a year behind due to being educated abroad and so am only just finishing my gcse's. I am obsessed with pushing my limits in fitness and am always doing adventurous activities like climbing. I am familiar with fear and have fully considered the death or serious injury potential as a royal marine. That said, the pride and way of life in the RM very much seems to suit me. Going in as an officer in the RM doesn't particularly appeal to me as I can see myself building up from the bottom.
>
> . Would you recommend a career in the royal marines?
> . Would I get a fair amount of time off to continue my passion for climbing (e.g. weekends, holidays?)
> . Are the specialisations such as aircrew possible to get into (or do they press for people to remain as general duties marines?)
> . Any other main info I should know?
>
> (**I have posted many times about joining the services and have received some lengthy responses which I appreciate tons, thanks again to you guys and ignore this thread and any future ones, I haven't forgotten all the info you've given me!**)
>
> . I am 17 and am fed up with this dull predictable civi way of life. I am a year behind due to being educated abroad and so am only just finishing my gcse's. I am obsessed with pushing my limits in fitness and am always doing adventurous activities like climbing. I am familiar with fear and have fully considered the death or serious injury potential as a royal marine. That said, the pride and way of life in the RM very much seems to suit me. Going in as an officer in the RM doesn't particularly appeal to me as I can see myself building up from the bottom.
>
> . Would you recommend a career in the royal marines?
> . Would I get a fair amount of time off to continue my passion for climbing (e.g. weekends, holidays?)
> . Are the specialisations such as aircrew possible to get into (or do they press for people to remain as general duties marines?)
> . Any other main info I should know?
>
> (**I have posted many times about joining the services and have received some lengthy responses which I appreciate tons, thanks again to you guys and ignore this thread and any future ones, I haven't forgotten all the info you've given me!**)
promotion is like rocking horse shit with the bootnecks. mind saying that its a good life as long as you dont mind spending your life on ships and getting contacted. get to your AFCO and have a chinwag with the RM fella there, they're a very proud (and sometimes arrogant) bunch
In reply to 1906johns:
Well that was just mainly crap. Promotion is booming at the moment, most lads are being picked up for Juniour Command Course (Corporal) after 4 years, many are being picked up before that. Ship time is very minimal, unless you get drafted onboard (v.unlucky). Get to an AFCO mate and speak to someone there, don't listen to most of the people gobbing off on here, they don't have a clue what they are on about. And yes we are very proud and arrogant; and rightly so.
> (In reply to Stanners)
> [...]
>
>
> promotion is like rocking horse shit with the bootnecks. mind saying that its a good life as long as you dont mind spending your life on ships and getting contacted. get to your AFCO and have a chinwag with the RM fella there, they're a very proud (and sometimes arrogant) bunch
> [...]
>
>
> promotion is like rocking horse shit with the bootnecks. mind saying that its a good life as long as you dont mind spending your life on ships and getting contacted. get to your AFCO and have a chinwag with the RM fella there, they're a very proud (and sometimes arrogant) bunch
Well that was just mainly crap. Promotion is booming at the moment, most lads are being picked up for Juniour Command Course (Corporal) after 4 years, many are being picked up before that. Ship time is very minimal, unless you get drafted onboard (v.unlucky). Get to an AFCO mate and speak to someone there, don't listen to most of the people gobbing off on here, they don't have a clue what they are on about. And yes we are very proud and arrogant; and rightly so.
thanks a lot everyone, loads of helpful pointers. cheers
In reply to greycarsdave:
Well said mate and I certainly agree with your first post!
> (In reply to 1906johns)
> [...]
>
> Well that was just mainly crap. Promotion is booming at the moment, most lads are being picked up for Juniour Command Course (Corporal) after 4 years, many are being picked up before that. Ship time is very minimal, unless you get drafted onboard (v.unlucky). Get to an AFCO mate and speak to someone there, don't listen to most of the people gobbing off on here, they don't have a clue what they are on about. And yes we are very proud and arrogant; and rightly so.
> [...]
>
> Well that was just mainly crap. Promotion is booming at the moment, most lads are being picked up for Juniour Command Course (Corporal) after 4 years, many are being picked up before that. Ship time is very minimal, unless you get drafted onboard (v.unlucky). Get to an AFCO mate and speak to someone there, don't listen to most of the people gobbing off on here, they don't have a clue what they are on about. And yes we are very proud and arrogant; and rightly so.
Well said mate and I certainly agree with your first post!
In reply to Stanners:
Remember: the Marines are a large bureaucratic organisation that is part of an even larger bureaucratic organisation. You may get more freedom for initiative within the Marines than in some other branches of the military, but any freedom is within a very strong structure and has very strong limits.
I'm not arguing whether this is right or wrong, a good or a bad thing, but it is what it is, and to survive the armed forces you need to accept you are part of a big big organisation and all that goes with that.
Another suggestion: become a Marine if you want to become a Marine.
It seems to me easier to be a Marine who climbs rather than be a climber who is a Marine. I would strongly advise against becoming a Marine in order to do more climbing (or mountaineering or whatever). If you really want to focus on your climbing, then why not become a rope access tech working in hazardous environments (eg offshore). The pay can be good, and if you work offshore then you will get plenty of down time when you can climb. Rope access work (especially in hazardous environments) is a very demanding work. Or you could choose commercial diving, or work on a rescue rib offshore - lots of roles that are demanding and have an element of risk, but which would give you a lot more time to climb than being in HM Forces.
Remember: the Marines are a large bureaucratic organisation that is part of an even larger bureaucratic organisation. You may get more freedom for initiative within the Marines than in some other branches of the military, but any freedom is within a very strong structure and has very strong limits.
I'm not arguing whether this is right or wrong, a good or a bad thing, but it is what it is, and to survive the armed forces you need to accept you are part of a big big organisation and all that goes with that.
Another suggestion: become a Marine if you want to become a Marine.
It seems to me easier to be a Marine who climbs rather than be a climber who is a Marine. I would strongly advise against becoming a Marine in order to do more climbing (or mountaineering or whatever). If you really want to focus on your climbing, then why not become a rope access tech working in hazardous environments (eg offshore). The pay can be good, and if you work offshore then you will get plenty of down time when you can climb. Rope access work (especially in hazardous environments) is a very demanding work. Or you could choose commercial diving, or work on a rescue rib offshore - lots of roles that are demanding and have an element of risk, but which would give you a lot more time to climb than being in HM Forces.
In reply to EZ: you will be the first up against the wall
In reply to Stanners:
Hi there,
some useful and some utter rubbish posts above as is the case with UKC.
You have to ask yourself what do you actually want to join the forces for? A career or do you think you can have heaps of time off doing what you like?
Having spent 22 plus years in the Army, first thing I'd do is recommend you join something other than the Army. Don't get me wrong, I had a great time, good mates, loads of travelling, climbing and ML quals etc, a good career but in hindsight, I'd have joined the Navy. You are treated better, a wider scope of jobs looking towards civvy street, better accommodation etc etc. I know some people will disagree but after a full service career, I have my own point of view.
I have 5 or 6 friends in the PT branch of the Navy and they work practically full time as AT Instructors and love it. You could of course get to Sgt in the Army, do the APTC course, do some time in the gym then get a job at one of the Adventure Trg places, Ripon, Indy (Bangor) etc.
Obviously that is the outdoorsy part of it all, as well as skiing etc etc there are so many opportunities to do what you want. But, if you're not teaching it then you will of course be in a job, so what do you want to do and what do you like?
Look at the bigger picture as well. You could have a full career but have something at the end of it to stand you in good stead for civvy strasse and don't join for the bravado aspect of things because Afghanistan will soon be over so you will be spending a lot of time training and doing general duties. Someone mentioned promotion was pants. Utter rubbish. Of course you are competing against other people and more people are being promoted quicker because they have actually been doing their proper job, ie, going to war, and have shone in that environment so they are promoted quicker. I find if people whinge about promotion etc then they are not doing enough to get promoted and need to up their game.
Going back to an earlier point, my other half passed her AIB (Admiralty Interview Board) as a Chief Petty Officer and has just completed her Officer training in Dartmouth and is now an Officer. 5 A levels and a recommendation gets you to AIB and you can then become an Officer. Probably the simplest way of becoming an Officer in any of the Forces. Do a few years then crack on with that. In my other halfs case, she did 12 years as a Nurse and was flying so that was the next logical step for her.
Probably gibbering on now but it is difficult to get a lot down in a few short paragraphs! As I said, think about what it is you actually want to do then consider your options. There is bucketloads of jobs to do in all 3 services so you have a massive choice, assuming you get the correct marks of course on selection.
Don't listen to some of the tripe written on here, get yourself to the career offices and they will inform you better.
All the best in whatever you do, Den
PS, Getting on and passing the ML course is pretty nails, I used to help teach them at Sennen on day 1 of their rock climbing course. Big boots, sunshine, getting beasted and then coming back at night because they were shit during the day, loved it!
Hi there,
some useful and some utter rubbish posts above as is the case with UKC.
You have to ask yourself what do you actually want to join the forces for? A career or do you think you can have heaps of time off doing what you like?
Having spent 22 plus years in the Army, first thing I'd do is recommend you join something other than the Army. Don't get me wrong, I had a great time, good mates, loads of travelling, climbing and ML quals etc, a good career but in hindsight, I'd have joined the Navy. You are treated better, a wider scope of jobs looking towards civvy street, better accommodation etc etc. I know some people will disagree but after a full service career, I have my own point of view.
I have 5 or 6 friends in the PT branch of the Navy and they work practically full time as AT Instructors and love it. You could of course get to Sgt in the Army, do the APTC course, do some time in the gym then get a job at one of the Adventure Trg places, Ripon, Indy (Bangor) etc.
Obviously that is the outdoorsy part of it all, as well as skiing etc etc there are so many opportunities to do what you want. But, if you're not teaching it then you will of course be in a job, so what do you want to do and what do you like?
Look at the bigger picture as well. You could have a full career but have something at the end of it to stand you in good stead for civvy strasse and don't join for the bravado aspect of things because Afghanistan will soon be over so you will be spending a lot of time training and doing general duties. Someone mentioned promotion was pants. Utter rubbish. Of course you are competing against other people and more people are being promoted quicker because they have actually been doing their proper job, ie, going to war, and have shone in that environment so they are promoted quicker. I find if people whinge about promotion etc then they are not doing enough to get promoted and need to up their game.
Going back to an earlier point, my other half passed her AIB (Admiralty Interview Board) as a Chief Petty Officer and has just completed her Officer training in Dartmouth and is now an Officer. 5 A levels and a recommendation gets you to AIB and you can then become an Officer. Probably the simplest way of becoming an Officer in any of the Forces. Do a few years then crack on with that. In my other halfs case, she did 12 years as a Nurse and was flying so that was the next logical step for her.
Probably gibbering on now but it is difficult to get a lot down in a few short paragraphs! As I said, think about what it is you actually want to do then consider your options. There is bucketloads of jobs to do in all 3 services so you have a massive choice, assuming you get the correct marks of course on selection.
Don't listen to some of the tripe written on here, get yourself to the career offices and they will inform you better.
All the best in whatever you do, Den
PS, Getting on and passing the ML course is pretty nails, I used to help teach them at Sennen on day 1 of their rock climbing course. Big boots, sunshine, getting beasted and then coming back at night because they were shit during the day, loved it!
In reply to Stanners:
In short, if you want to be an infantryman and have the ability, then the Marines would be a good choice. I will not say it which infantry I think is the BEST choice: I don't want to paint a target on my back
However, you don't get to be a top quality infantryman without doing the grind of exercise after exercise after exercise, drill after drill after drill. In order to perform complicated procedures under stress, these procedures need to be instinctive, and the only way to achieve this is to practice and practice and practice. Of course, this is not only true for an infantryman. Paramedics have the same thing, as do drivers, and cabin crew, and police officers... So you can't escape a degree of dull predictability, nor can you escape daft corporate thinking, or politics, or having to take orders from someone you despise. These things will occur wherever you go - hopefully they will be rare, but you will still get them.
Finally, if you want a life that is adventurous and unpredictable, there are other options. Emergency services, some aspects of social care and mental health care, some aspects of marine and offshore work, some science, some medical, some construction and maintenance - lots of options in these areas that have their fair share of being tense and on the edge. Become an aid worker or a war correspondent and you could find yourself going unarmed into situations the armed forces would be reluctant to deploy a fully-armed Royal Marine Commando.
In short, if you want to be an infantryman and have the ability, then the Marines would be a good choice. I will not say it which infantry I think is the BEST choice: I don't want to paint a target on my back
However, you don't get to be a top quality infantryman without doing the grind of exercise after exercise after exercise, drill after drill after drill. In order to perform complicated procedures under stress, these procedures need to be instinctive, and the only way to achieve this is to practice and practice and practice. Of course, this is not only true for an infantryman. Paramedics have the same thing, as do drivers, and cabin crew, and police officers... So you can't escape a degree of dull predictability, nor can you escape daft corporate thinking, or politics, or having to take orders from someone you despise. These things will occur wherever you go - hopefully they will be rare, but you will still get them.
Finally, if you want a life that is adventurous and unpredictable, there are other options. Emergency services, some aspects of social care and mental health care, some aspects of marine and offshore work, some science, some medical, some construction and maintenance - lots of options in these areas that have their fair share of being tense and on the edge. Become an aid worker or a war correspondent and you could find yourself going unarmed into situations the armed forces would be reluctant to deploy a fully-armed Royal Marine Commando.
In reply to nniff:
To the OP if you want to do it then "DO IT". Dive in head first, its the only way to find out whether you'll like it or not.
> (In reply to Stanners)
> [...]
> Why build yourself up from the bottom of the Marine pile when you could build yourself up from the bottom of the Marine Officer pile?
>
> Maybe because his parents are actually married to each other. This would of course disqualify him from being an officer. Sorry, just being a cynical old ex-squaddy.
> [...]
> Why build yourself up from the bottom of the Marine pile when you could build yourself up from the bottom of the Marine Officer pile?
>
> Maybe because his parents are actually married to each other. This would of course disqualify him from being an officer. Sorry, just being a cynical old ex-squaddy.
To the OP if you want to do it then "DO IT". Dive in head first, its the only way to find out whether you'll like it or not.
In reply to Stanners:
I'm ex-army, but have a perspective on the RM. They are a very mature organisation with a tremendous work ethic and team spirit and fewer close-to-the-surface psychopaths than the Paras. I know a few still serving officers who I respect greatly. If you join, you will be a marine first and foremost - AT and climbing will figure; but will not be a priority.
If I had my time again, I would have joined the navy. Much more civilised, lots of variety, less bullshit and I might have even been considered to be fit.
I'm ex-army, but have a perspective on the RM. They are a very mature organisation with a tremendous work ethic and team spirit and fewer close-to-the-surface psychopaths than the Paras. I know a few still serving officers who I respect greatly. If you join, you will be a marine first and foremost - AT and climbing will figure; but will not be a priority.
If I had my time again, I would have joined the navy. Much more civilised, lots of variety, less bullshit and I might have even been considered to be fit.
In reply to Stanners:
Don't just leave school with a handful of GCSEs in search of adventure unless you have absolutely no other possible option. Take your education as far as you can while you're young and it's easy, it's the greatest gift you'll ever receive.
If you still want to join the forces at 19 with A levels, there's nothing to stop you. If you want to join at 22 with a degree you can. The better educated you are to begin with the better able you'll be to exploit your training in the forces, the better able you'll be to cope when the time comes to leave. Give yourself options, soldiering is a young mans game and you wont be young forever.
jk
Don't just leave school with a handful of GCSEs in search of adventure unless you have absolutely no other possible option. Take your education as far as you can while you're young and it's easy, it's the greatest gift you'll ever receive.
If you still want to join the forces at 19 with A levels, there's nothing to stop you. If you want to join at 22 with a degree you can. The better educated you are to begin with the better able you'll be to exploit your training in the forces, the better able you'll be to cope when the time comes to leave. Give yourself options, soldiering is a young mans game and you wont be young forever.
jk
In reply to jkarran:
I would add that the forces are probably second to none in terms of Higher Education opportunities once you are in. I've been in for 31 years and just finished a Masters having been nagged to do it by a colleague (it galls me to say it ) in the Navy. His mantra - "Anyone leaving the Armed Forces without a Degree in this day and age does so by choice."
> (In reply to Stanners)
>
> Don't just leave school with a handful of GCSEs in search of adventure unless you have absolutely no other possible option. Take your education as far as you can while you're young and it's easy, it's the greatest gift you'll ever receive.
>
> If you still want to join the forces at 19 with A levels, there's nothing to stop you. If you want to join at 22 with a degree you can. The better educated you are to begin with the better able you'll be to exploit your training in the forces, the better able you'll be to cope when the time comes to leave. Give yourself options, soldiering is a young mans game and you wont be young forever.
>
> jk
>
> Don't just leave school with a handful of GCSEs in search of adventure unless you have absolutely no other possible option. Take your education as far as you can while you're young and it's easy, it's the greatest gift you'll ever receive.
>
> If you still want to join the forces at 19 with A levels, there's nothing to stop you. If you want to join at 22 with a degree you can. The better educated you are to begin with the better able you'll be to exploit your training in the forces, the better able you'll be to cope when the time comes to leave. Give yourself options, soldiering is a young mans game and you wont be young forever.
>
> jk
I would add that the forces are probably second to none in terms of Higher Education opportunities once you are in. I've been in for 31 years and just finished a Masters having been nagged to do it by a colleague (it galls me to say it ) in the Navy. His mantra - "Anyone leaving the Armed Forces without a Degree in this day and age does so by choice."
In reply to jkarran:
Just to add to this...
I was dead set on joining the military in any shape or form that I could. I was convinced/pressganged/blackmailed into finishing my education first. Once the other side of my degree, my eyes opened up to other opportunities I could never have imagined beforehand. A military career became second choice then. Not saying that will/would be the case for you but just my experience.
As has been said, take you education as far as you can before you embark on joining the military as you really have nothing to lose and everything to gain by doing so.
Just to add to this...
I was dead set on joining the military in any shape or form that I could. I was convinced/pressganged/blackmailed into finishing my education first. Once the other side of my degree, my eyes opened up to other opportunities I could never have imagined beforehand. A military career became second choice then. Not saying that will/would be the case for you but just my experience.
As has been said, take you education as far as you can before you embark on joining the military as you really have nothing to lose and everything to gain by doing so.
In reply to SFM:
I was also pressured to go to uni at 18 but refused and joined the army anyway; 3.5 years later I left and did go to uni. If I had continued with my education at 18 I suspect I would have hated it, and spent my time drinking/doing drugs and skipping lectures. When I did eventually go it was of my own volition & I got a 2:1.
My point is follow your heart and do what you want, you'll only succeed if you are motivated.
I would also comment that the fittest, strongest guys in my training platoon were in their early 20s and had worked before joining up. At 18 straight from school, I found P Company very hard going but I did get through first attempt, if you want it badly enough you will do it.
I was also pressured to go to uni at 18 but refused and joined the army anyway; 3.5 years later I left and did go to uni. If I had continued with my education at 18 I suspect I would have hated it, and spent my time drinking/doing drugs and skipping lectures. When I did eventually go it was of my own volition & I got a 2:1.
My point is follow your heart and do what you want, you'll only succeed if you are motivated.
I would also comment that the fittest, strongest guys in my training platoon were in their early 20s and had worked before joining up. At 18 straight from school, I found P Company very hard going but I did get through first attempt, if you want it badly enough you will do it.
In reply to Stanners: In fairness mate as I said above, great career. But the risk is very real. Two of my good mates died in Afgan over the past few years, one was an officer and the other a bloke, both RM
One was 21 the other 23 - just very strange to see your mates go on tour and not come back.
One was 21 the other 23 - just very strange to see your mates go on tour and not come back.
In reply to Stanners:
thinking its mainly due to my exams at the moment, but I'm feeling incredibly stressed about this. Went to the careers office yesterday and am still apprehensive about a life as a marine. Think I will do my A-levels and see how I feel in a few years. Could I kill someone? No, I don't think thats me.
Back to my life of climbing....
Is this a sensible thing to do, or am I just being afraid of the unknown?
thinking its mainly due to my exams at the moment, but I'm feeling incredibly stressed about this. Went to the careers office yesterday and am still apprehensive about a life as a marine. Think I will do my A-levels and see how I feel in a few years. Could I kill someone? No, I don't think thats me.
Back to my life of climbing....
Is this a sensible thing to do, or am I just being afraid of the unknown?
In reply to Stanners:
Sounds sensible to me. I wnet through University to see if my outlook would change. After that, it still seemed a good idea, so off I went to the Army. One of those on my course was a transferree from the Navy who got fed up with it all being about 'systems'.
Sounds sensible to me. I wnet through University to see if my outlook would change. After that, it still seemed a good idea, so off I went to the Army. One of those on my course was a transferree from the Navy who got fed up with it all being about 'systems'.
In reply to Stanners:
nah its intelligent to be apprehensive about any major decisions.
not sure if it has been mentioned but have you thought about the reserves as a sort of middle ground.
> Is this a sensible thing to do, or am I just being afraid of the unknown?
nah its intelligent to be apprehensive about any major decisions.
not sure if it has been mentioned but have you thought about the reserves as a sort of middle ground.
In reply to greycarsdave: The reason there is so much promotion at the lower end of the ranks is that loads of marines get to corporal then quit and go into private shipping protection (or whatever its called), money being the main motivation to leave, you can read into that what you like.
I looked very seriously at joining the navy a couple of years ago while at university, and to be honest the more people I met, and the more I found out about it the more I got turned off.
My advice is to find out as much as you can, both good and bad before you sign up, the careers office will obviously only put staff there who are going to be positive, and if you want to keep on the right side of your careers advisor don't ask about suicide rates!
I looked very seriously at joining the navy a couple of years ago while at university, and to be honest the more people I met, and the more I found out about it the more I got turned off.
My advice is to find out as much as you can, both good and bad before you sign up, the careers office will obviously only put staff there who are going to be positive, and if you want to keep on the right side of your careers advisor don't ask about suicide rates!
In reply to Stanners:
Regrettably that's at the top of the job description. 'Could' and 'want to' are two very different things. The forces select for the for former and against the latter*
*(With the possible exception of 3 Para Mortar Platoon. Or was that something else they selected for? It's a long time ago)
> Could I kill someone? No, I don't think thats me.
Regrettably that's at the top of the job description. 'Could' and 'want to' are two very different things. The forces select for the for former and against the latter*
*(With the possible exception of 3 Para Mortar Platoon. Or was that something else they selected for? It's a long time ago)
In reply to Stanners:
If you're unsure about it, don't do it. You won't get through training unless you want to be there. With regards to killing people, it's not a daily occurrence! There are many sides to the stories that you hear but most lads don't ever even 'fire in anger' let alone at an actual 'target'. I have known lads to go away for 6 months, and not even fire a shot. On the other hand I've been awa,y and fired nearly every single day.
I would say though, if you don't see yourself getting out there and WANTING to get in these situations, then I'd advise against applying. Nearly every single marine that passes training WANTS to get to the Commando Unit that is deploying on the next Operation Herrick (Afghan).
There is very little point putting yourself through 9 months of the hardest infantry training in the world to then not want to use it.
And another point on this subject is that the lads that do WANT to go, would not want someone who doesn't, or doesn't think they're up to it standing/ fighting next to them.
My final point is, if you don't feel like you want to do it, then don't. It is not something that comes very easily, you either want it, or you don't.
Dave.
If you're unsure about it, don't do it. You won't get through training unless you want to be there. With regards to killing people, it's not a daily occurrence! There are many sides to the stories that you hear but most lads don't ever even 'fire in anger' let alone at an actual 'target'. I have known lads to go away for 6 months, and not even fire a shot. On the other hand I've been awa,y and fired nearly every single day.
I would say though, if you don't see yourself getting out there and WANTING to get in these situations, then I'd advise against applying. Nearly every single marine that passes training WANTS to get to the Commando Unit that is deploying on the next Operation Herrick (Afghan).
There is very little point putting yourself through 9 months of the hardest infantry training in the world to then not want to use it.
And another point on this subject is that the lads that do WANT to go, would not want someone who doesn't, or doesn't think they're up to it standing/ fighting next to them.
My final point is, if you don't feel like you want to do it, then don't. It is not something that comes very easily, you either want it, or you don't.
Dave.
In reply to 1100110:
Maritime Security is the main reason lads are leaving at the moment. And why not? Could many people walk into a job that pays £300 a day?
I'd never join the Navy, its the biggest waste of space/time/money I have ever seen.
I've never known anyone to commit suicide in the Marines, I'd imagine its just as much of a problem in HM Forces as it is in civvy street?
Maritime Security is the main reason lads are leaving at the moment. And why not? Could many people walk into a job that pays £300 a day?
I'd never join the Navy, its the biggest waste of space/time/money I have ever seen.
I've never known anyone to commit suicide in the Marines, I'd imagine its just as much of a problem in HM Forces as it is in civvy street?
In reply to greycarsdave:
Considering ive been a serving naval reservist for 6 years, fancy backing your theory up?
> I'd never join the Navy, its the biggest waste of space/time/money I have ever seen.
Considering ive been a serving naval reservist for 6 years, fancy backing your theory up?
In reply to Stanners: Do they still do acquaintance days? If so get on one of them.
I did my prmc in my mid twenties. I passed no problem but left thinking that 32 weeks there and the life after if I passed out was not for me.
Massive respect to those who can pass out and live that lifestyle.
In my very limited experience it is very obvious that if you are not 100% committed to it then don't bother. There's no great rush to make a decision at your age.
Someone else suggested going part time and joining the reserves, a good call. Still needs commitment, especially if you're holding down a full time job.
I did my prmc in my mid twenties. I passed no problem but left thinking that 32 weeks there and the life after if I passed out was not for me.
Massive respect to those who can pass out and live that lifestyle.
In my very limited experience it is very obvious that if you are not 100% committed to it then don't bother. There's no great rush to make a decision at your age.
Someone else suggested going part time and joining the reserves, a good call. Still needs commitment, especially if you're holding down a full time job.
In reply to Stanners:
i was on garnedd ugain last week and about 10 royal marines in full kit carrying massive packs were working their way across crib goch and joined me on the summit (staying at capel curig army camp) .when i see the yobs where i live it was a refressing change to see young people in the peak of physical condition.they were all built like brick s**t houses,beyond any fitness level that ive ever seen ,well mannered and a credit to the country.i wish i was younger i would love to get to that level of fitness .the overwhelming feeling i got though listening to their banter that they were all working for one another and would quite happily die for each other.
my son was in 3 para until recently and it takes a special person to pass out and gain the coveted marroon/green beret. have you got it in you ? theres only one way to find out i guess.
i was on garnedd ugain last week and about 10 royal marines in full kit carrying massive packs were working their way across crib goch and joined me on the summit (staying at capel curig army camp) .when i see the yobs where i live it was a refressing change to see young people in the peak of physical condition.they were all built like brick s**t houses,beyond any fitness level that ive ever seen ,well mannered and a credit to the country.i wish i was younger i would love to get to that level of fitness .the overwhelming feeling i got though listening to their banter that they were all working for one another and would quite happily die for each other.
my son was in 3 para until recently and it takes a special person to pass out and gain the coveted marroon/green beret. have you got it in you ? theres only one way to find out i guess.
In reply to RCJ:
Its a personal opinion, and considering I've been based on a naval ship for the past few years I don't really appreciate your arsey tone.
They rarely do anything of merit in my opinion. Their traditions are ANCIENT and they can't seem to keep up with the times. Its no longer the Battle of Trafalgar. They spend millions on 'jollys' round the world, never really achieving anything. They seem to stitch each other up all the time, I'm sure 'telling on each other' is actively encouraged in the navy. Naval officers are some of the most useless people I have ever met; petty, rude and incompetent. Scared of what their boss thinks of them and incapable of making decisions. Ships are terrible, accom, food etc. Land bases are just as bad (standby if you don't face a flag at sunrise/sunset). Not every occasion needs a flag/salute/whistle/bell/announcement.
Thats about it for my rant for the moment. If you have any comebacks please send me them. We are hijacking someone elses thoughts on joining a proper branch.
Dave.
Its a personal opinion, and considering I've been based on a naval ship for the past few years I don't really appreciate your arsey tone.
They rarely do anything of merit in my opinion. Their traditions are ANCIENT and they can't seem to keep up with the times. Its no longer the Battle of Trafalgar. They spend millions on 'jollys' round the world, never really achieving anything. They seem to stitch each other up all the time, I'm sure 'telling on each other' is actively encouraged in the navy. Naval officers are some of the most useless people I have ever met; petty, rude and incompetent. Scared of what their boss thinks of them and incapable of making decisions. Ships are terrible, accom, food etc. Land bases are just as bad (standby if you don't face a flag at sunrise/sunset). Not every occasion needs a flag/salute/whistle/bell/announcement.
Thats about it for my rant for the moment. If you have any comebacks please send me them. We are hijacking someone elses thoughts on joining a proper branch.
Dave.
In reply to greycarsdave:
I just wonder if they are pushed away from the marines, or pulled into private work, I certainly have no ideological problem to people doing this specific work for a private company.
I still feel they do a difficult job well, but I think I'm best off saying it wasn't my kind of environment.
My understanding is that suicide rates amongst young males are the highest of any demographic so you could well be correct, but it was the way in which there was no acknowledgement of the issue that made me cautious. Especially as that week a sailor had committed suicide on-board a ship. This was only one example (albeit the most emotive) of many I could quote of subjects that were not to be talked about during the recruitment process. All this while you were being told the military is changing and becoming more open.
> (In reply to 1100110)
>
> Maritime Security is the main reason lads are leaving at the moment. And why not? Could many people walk into a job that pays £300 a day?
>
> Maritime Security is the main reason lads are leaving at the moment. And why not? Could many people walk into a job that pays £300 a day?
I just wonder if they are pushed away from the marines, or pulled into private work, I certainly have no ideological problem to people doing this specific work for a private company.
>
> I'd never join the Navy, its the biggest waste of space/time/money I have ever seen.
> I'd never join the Navy, its the biggest waste of space/time/money I have ever seen.
I still feel they do a difficult job well, but I think I'm best off saying it wasn't my kind of environment.
> I've never known anyone to commit suicide in the Marines, I'd imagine its just as much of a problem in HM Forces as it is in civvy street?
My understanding is that suicide rates amongst young males are the highest of any demographic so you could well be correct, but it was the way in which there was no acknowledgement of the issue that made me cautious. Especially as that week a sailor had committed suicide on-board a ship. This was only one example (albeit the most emotive) of many I could quote of subjects that were not to be talked about during the recruitment process. All this while you were being told the military is changing and becoming more open.
In reply to Stanners:
A fair few posters on here have offered utter tripe, but (thankfully) more have been constructive and very insightful and helpful. While I'm an Army bod, I know a fair number of Commando trained Army types, and full-blown marines, at officer and soldier level. Do drop me a line through the forum if you want to discuss anything.
My takeaway points: I have an huge amount of time for the RM. They certainly have a very specific character, which must be formed during training (officers and soldiers), but if you get it, it is a very powerful thing. The course is hard graft, but by all accounts turns out very capable individuals. If RM is what you want to do, go for it and run with the challenge.
Again, do get in touch if you have any generally green forces / military questions, but quite genuinely my decision to move into the Armed Forces was the best thing.
A fair few posters on here have offered utter tripe, but (thankfully) more have been constructive and very insightful and helpful. While I'm an Army bod, I know a fair number of Commando trained Army types, and full-blown marines, at officer and soldier level. Do drop me a line through the forum if you want to discuss anything.
My takeaway points: I have an huge amount of time for the RM. They certainly have a very specific character, which must be formed during training (officers and soldiers), but if you get it, it is a very powerful thing. The course is hard graft, but by all accounts turns out very capable individuals. If RM is what you want to do, go for it and run with the challenge.
Again, do get in touch if you have any generally green forces / military questions, but quite genuinely my decision to move into the Armed Forces was the best thing.
In reply to greycarsdave:
The OP could do both - join (say) the Royal Engineers and then do the All Arms Commando Course and join 59 Ind Cdo Sqn RE - like I did - except I injured myself on the pre AACC and couldn't complete it...
The OP could do both - join (say) the Royal Engineers and then do the All Arms Commando Course and join 59 Ind Cdo Sqn RE - like I did - except I injured myself on the pre AACC and couldn't complete it...
In reply to James Jackson:
And mine to PVR in 1980 was the WORST thing I ever did....
>
> my decision to move into the Armed Forces was the best thing.
> my decision to move into the Armed Forces was the best thing.
And mine to PVR in 1980 was the WORST thing I ever did....
In reply to Gordonbp:
It's no longer an indepent Squadron as it became part of a Enginner regement a few years ago now. But if the OP was going to join the men in green this is a pretty good shout, they say this unit continues to have (well almost) an outstanding reputation.
> (In reply to greycarsdave)
> .... and join 59 Ind Cdo Sqn RE ....
> .... and join 59 Ind Cdo Sqn RE ....
It's no longer an indepent Squadron as it became part of a Enginner regement a few years ago now. But if the OP was going to join the men in green this is a pretty good shout, they say this unit continues to have (well almost) an outstanding reputation.
In reply to johnj:
Thanks for the info! (I left the RE in 1980 and then joined the other green machine - Royal Green Jackets!)
Thanks for the info! (I left the RE in 1980 and then joined the other green machine - Royal Green Jackets!)
In reply to greycarsdave:
In that case I apologise unreservedly and retract my statement. I was speaking from my personal experience, although each person will have had a different experience i fully accept things may well have changed since mine. No offence intended at all.
> (In reply to 1906johns)
> [...]
>
> Well that was just mainly crap. Promotion is booming at the moment, most lads are being picked up for Juniour Command Course (Corporal) after 4 years, many are being picked up before that. Ship time is very minimal, unless you get drafted onboard (v.unlucky). Get to an AFCO mate and speak to someone there, don't listen to most of the people gobbing off on here, they don't have a clue what they are on about. And yes we are very proud and arrogant; and rightly so.
> [...]
>
> Well that was just mainly crap. Promotion is booming at the moment, most lads are being picked up for Juniour Command Course (Corporal) after 4 years, many are being picked up before that. Ship time is very minimal, unless you get drafted onboard (v.unlucky). Get to an AFCO mate and speak to someone there, don't listen to most of the people gobbing off on here, they don't have a clue what they are on about. And yes we are very proud and arrogant; and rightly so.
In that case I apologise unreservedly and retract my statement. I was speaking from my personal experience, although each person will have had a different experience i fully accept things may well have changed since mine. No offence intended at all.
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