Remember all the Afghan veterans that got left on the streets but now we put random migrants in housing for free, or how about the union jack flag getting replaced for the pride flag in London
There are comparatively few veterans that have been left on the streets. Most veterans benefit immensely from their service and go on to live god lives in civvy street after service. Those friends I know who have PTSD anc CPTSD from multiple tours have managed to hold down jobs and live in their own homes - some have absolutely excelled. I have had conversations with people working in the charity sector that deal with homeless people, often the veterans that they see have complex issues that are often not directly linked to their service. This is frequently connected to traumatic childhood experiences and issues that they had when they joined, or very sadly, drug addictions. The number of 'street homeless' veterans is small; it often transpires that some on the streets claiming to be veterans have not served. The UK has sufficient resource to look after both asylum seekers and veterans - it is not a mutually exclusive activity, but this narrative is often pushed by those with a particular political agenda and seems to have become rooted in the popular psyche.
Thanks for sharing Barry, especially coming from your experiences and people who you have spoken to within the charities and the veterans you know. I am the same, most of the guys I know who have left service are doing very well for themselves.
@@barryalexander2909 my ex would so disagree with you, she’s a trained psychologist and suicide prevention for veterans, her business is call “got your six” if anyone needs, she’s sadly very busy and is disgusted with how vets are being abandoned by the country
@@barryalexander2909 Your post does not mention illegal immigrants, people who depart France, destroy their passports, and refuse to say where they have come from. To call these people Asylum seekers is an insult to genuine Asylum seekers.
I left after 6 years in the infantry. That was 32 years ago, throughout that time, the few strangers, unfamiliar work colleagues, unknown work contacts which have all helped me out at the drop of a hat, without explanation, have all been ex military. The biggest, saddest mistake, which took me a long time to learn after leaving was - I presumed everybody shared the same work ethic, not so in civvy street.
It also took me awhile as well why in the army was work to finish then have a break in civvy street completely different it was fag break let’s send a text message many arguments I’ve had over this but I enjoyed being in the army and keeping fit
Wow totally this comment it's amazing how long it took me to adjust to the lack of support after leaving from having constant support on tap if needed.
I did 23 years in the infantry, was a PTI for 12 years of that along with an adventure training instructor. Bluffed my way in that respect because it was easy once passing the courses. After that I had to knuckle down and do courses to help me go through the ranks and get up there before I retired. My advice is if you’re going to join, it’s a good life but pick a trade, don’t join the infantry! Have a skill that can be transferred to civil street once you get out.
@philm3509 Just like any conflict you care to mention, everyone of them needed the infantry. The ongoing conflicts around the world clearly shows the importance of having infantry units on the ground. There is nothing wrong in bettering yourself with a trade, not at all, but being a professional infantry soldier is also a job to be proud of 👍
I served for 39 years regular and reserve forces (Army - RAFVR) 1963 - 2002 and served in the far east from 1965 - 67 active service, UK, BAOR, Canada, Northern Ireland active service, UK. Im now 78 and would do it all again.
Joined the infantry in 87. Left 93.Germany. Belize. Cyprus. NI twice. Good travel. Good mate's. Would I do it again? No. I would have stayed home and got a trade. My advice would be if you do join the army join something that will give you a trade on civvy street, and if you must join the infantry do your 22 years. Don't join at 16 because your pension doesn't start until your 18. Good luck stay safe.
Hi I served 16 years with 1st royal Irish rangers then 7th city belfast home service and I agree totally with all you said here , first joined in 79 and I hope the fitness required then is still the same now, as you say it's a messy world and if your not fit to fight your gonna have problems. Keep up the good work faug ah ballah.
My husband served in the 1st Royal Irish Rangers, Catterick Camp, as it was then, then Hemer, Germany. He was originally with the Royal Irish Fusiliers then they amalgamated with the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and the Royal Ulster Rifles in 1968. That was many, many moons ago. I was also in the army and many of my family, mum, dad, brother, aunt, uncles, grandfathers all served in the military. My husband did twenty two years in the regulars, transferring from the Rangers in 1975, and five in the TA. I often think we had the best of times. Military is family. Fitness is definitely essential as well as self discipline, it also helps to have a sense of humour. I smiled when I saw the motto Faugh-a-Ballagh. All then best to you and 'Clear the Way!' 😃☘️☘️
@@stephenarmstrong770 Remember your arrival in Berlin vividly (Didn't you take over from a Para Bn? Remember your contribution to the Tattoo also. Especially the pissed up short lad staggering along at the back and the efforts of those in the shadows to collar him out of the band and out of public view. He disappeared on the return leg down the DeutschlandHalle as the band turned into the darkness as the end of the arena. Too late he'd done two lengths by then and had been spotted by thousands! I suspect that stupid little bugger had a few miserable weeks ahead of him after that showing. Me and my mates were pissing ourselves. Hope he is still around to look back on it and wince and laugh at himself in equal measure. Best posting I had and the antics of your lads when the beer and the pisstaking was flowing (and it usually was within minutes of their arrival) just added to the memories. Your RSM must have had his work cut out. You were a lively, good natured bunch generally and there was never a dull moment. Wasn't the Bn confined to barracks in the first couple of weeks of being there? Happy days.
Good, solid, timeless, military logical thinking there mate. Joined at 15 years old back in the '60's and left 16 years later. What you're saying was as true then as it is now. My moniker on here is a bit of a giveaway but I only ever had one posting where fitness played little to no part in my role. Even as a Scaleyback we could hold our own in pure fitness terms with most other arms of the army. Mil skills - different matter altogether of course but there was still a min standard expected. I was a constant voice of dissent on mil trg and as part of an Inf Bde I suggested as each of the 3 inf units had a range day/trg day in whatever basic inf skill then our sqn should be asking for slots on that session to keep our skills at least at the basic and even maybe reach some inf skills. No excuse for a tradesman not to know how to handle a GPMG, mortar or A/T or other spec eqpt. To be used as a help to a medic if you're all he has got to help him/her. No need to be experts on it but at least know how to jump into the spot where an infanteer has been incapacitated and at least be able to contribute on spec eqpt in an emergency. All I got for the suggestions was a thousand reasons it wasn't going to happen rather than the one reason it should happen. Not that uncommon in the military that do nothing should prevail over put yourself out and gain the rewards for doing so. The mantra always was, "You're a soldier first and a tradesman second". Most of us were happy to go with that MO. All too often we were thwarted when it come to putting an event to the mantra. Best and most rewarding mil training I ever received was at the hands of a Belgian inf unit (My memory tells me they were Belgian Paras but all hazy now) I was a shit shot with the SLR. Bloody good on pistol/SMG and just loved the old LMG (NEVER missed with that beautiful lump of metal) Then a Belgian NCO stepped forward and told me to clear my SLR and lay it aside. He gave me a Belgian FN (pretty much the same weapon) (but this thing had a bipod at the front) He gave me a few mags and told me to empty them just get the feel of the weapon - it immediately felt more reassuring. Then he had me, now under the orders of our own rangemaster, do the Brit qualifying process - what a transformation! I didn't miss with one single round! Grouping nothing to shout about but I hit with every single round somewhere where it would make any bugger's eyes water. The big question from me when I stood in front of my SSM after he'd been told and congratulated me was a very stupid, "How come all of us who struggle with this thing can't at least get a range day with a bipod to see if it helps sir?" The answer was pretty predictable and it went along the lines of "Cos the Queen doesn't think you're worth the extra £10 it might cost her, shit for brains!" Once I'd stopped laughing he just quietly offered "It's enough that in there (and he tapped me on the head) you know it's not your ability that's in doubt here lad it's the shit you get issued with" He winked at me and a gesture of his head made me certain it was time for me to foxtrot oscar. I suspect there are the modern equivalents of that old SSM still offering tidbits of wisdom and forethought to questions they cannot possible answer. Thanks for all your efforts in these uncertain and possibly doomladen times to you and your peers mate - I'd be amongst many who would be happy to see taxes sky rocket to get the British mil back to the point where we were openly admired by our European and N. American allies and had the military muscle to make Tsar Putrid think twice. Our decline was palpable by the mid 70's and it was just a merry go round of cuts/savings year on year on year and we had become a laughing stock by the time I left in the early 80's. Falklands was our last gasp credibility effort and that came so close to going tits up it should have served as a warning - but didn't. Once again thanks for all you do and try to do!
I used SLR in the air force. being an ex cadet I was always puzzled about lack of bipod, it felt stupid to be trying to hold the rifle steady when I knew of an easier way. Even as a cadet firing Lee Enfield we could stack a sandbag under as support and got good results.
AR here, thanks for the insight. I agree that it is your duty to keep your fitness up, life is hard and war wont be comfortable or convenient. Learning to solider on no matter what is a skill.
Sorry brother, but I think you've got it wrong, despite the oath we all take and are usually proud of it when we do take it.. Within two weeks of joining, when we meet some of those special guys that we'll serve with our entire time in service, our future best friends, the best men at our wedding, the God parent to our future children, our friends for life, and in my case I met two lads who'd be killed in Afghanistan and their deaths affected the rest of my life since, within two weeks of meeting those special men, none of us spend another day serving Queen, King, Country, Government, or God! Every day of my 14 years I was there for my mates and my cap badge.
That's last nights half litre of good German ale being recycled down your combats mate - keeps you warm when it's plummeting down toward freezing point in a hole in Sennelager though.
Stepping up isn't the problem. Most lads would definitely love to join and are currently trying hard to get in. The problem is getting an invitation to selection is the problem.
@@Ironcrossdelta fully agree with you and I have mentioned this in previous videos. I’m fully behind the generation who are wanting to serve, I receive emails & DMs daily from people with this issue. So I fully agree the number of people want to join is high and speaks volume of young British people. It’s just that process from to get to basic training is the problem.
Eleven years a Sapper Rupert here. All good advice. I would add to your 2nd/3rd points. You must have a 'can do' attitude, your mates and the structure will get you through if you try (including fitness).
I was in the Yeomanry in the mid 90s, a local TA Regiment, my dad recommended it, he's ex-RM. I enjoyed it. , I was pysically fit(ish), I enjoyed obstacle courses more than long runs I was also a part time pool lifeguard at the time. Never concidered myself a veteran, because I didn't go to war, but I've been told I am.
Great video 👍 My late father was called up to fight in the Second World War . He had six weeks basic training at Aldershot . He said it was tough and he kept himself pretty fit . He ended up a radio operator for the 25 pounders ….luckily he made it through the war with nothing more than a broken thumb ( playing football lol ) his regiment became part of the BOAR until he was discharged. He was asked to stay on and become a PT instructor….he said six years was enough and came home . I hope non of these conflicts escalate but sadly I think they will . Best wishes to you guys who go out there and keep us safe 👍
I served in D Coy London Irish Rifles, 4 Battalion Royal Irish Rangers, did my recruit course Depot, St Patrick's Barracks Ballymena 1983, Happy days, Faugh A Ballagh.
Very good briefing. My Grandson wants to join the Army he is looking at Royal Irish he 16. Told him to wait till he 18 then see. I served with the 8 UDR and Royal Irish for a eleven years. Loved it would do it all over again. I let him see your video FAB God bless
Amen to hear this. I’m thinking of joining well, I have applied to join as an officer in the army so God bless for this. I really need to hear this. As a Christian myself how would I get not passed but how will I deal with the fact I might have to take life?
Accurate, i have done 39yrs joined Infantry and went SSCP in 2008 as a WO1 and now have committed until my 60th birthday in 2028, the long career is there if you want it, oh and good at it 😊
Thanks for this. It is so true! I joined the US Army in 1980 and served as a soldier until 1996. Then I went to uni, became a Church of Scotland minister and joined the British Army as a chaplain on a short service commission in 2011. In many ways it was like I'd never taken off the uniform. Even now, working as a parish minister, in my sixties, I consider myself a soldier. The habits (good and bad) that I learned, the way of thinking that the army (both UK and US) inculcates, and the feeling of brotherhood with anyone who served are all still with me. I don't expect this will ever change. Your commitment to serve never expires -- at least, not in your heart. Either that or you were never a soldier to start with.
On physical fitness. SCR reflects the most basic standard required to serve in any role. The RFT(S) is the output standard from trade training and is the most basic standard that the science indicates (based on performance data from hundreds of serving soldiers in each trade) to be *employed* in a given role. The idea is that this is the most basic standard that everyone should be able to achieve at all times, through career, regardless of age. When units are preparing for a particular deployment, or operational role (e.g. high readiness) and when individuals are preparing for an arduous career course (Juniors, Seniors, specialist weapons etc., All Arms PPS/Commando course ) they should be seeking to reach well beyond those most basic standards - further, faster, more kit etc, but if they try to maintain this standard constantly, they will likely become injured - hence why there should be periodised and cyclical training and polarisation in training (you shouldn't make every session an out and out thrashing, there needs to be easier 'recovery' sessions - which i think you have covered previously on this channel). If anyone is dipping for the line at 14:59 for the 2km loaded march, they need to seriously look at their personal fitness. Anecdotally, a lot of soldiers seem to want to achieve the bare minimum to get by (no doubt this will vary from unit to unit and is a question of culture and attitude rather than an issue with the tests. The tests were developed through detailed analysis of the generic physical tasks of a trade, and reflect the requirements of a reasonable, rather than an absolute worst case scenario. The bottom line is that the for the first time in its history, the Army has tests that are supported by science as opposed to a SWAG (scientific wild arsed guess), or the pace at which the CO's dog can run, based on operational job roles rather than good ideas and are therefore legally defensible should a claim be brought. The Army Physical Training System caters for running and CV work, but I do agree that as an organistion we have become fixated on the S&C aspects, which are essential as they help to prevent MSKI - the aim is to strengthen the chassis, build and then fine tune the engine. Most MSKI occur when soldiers are playing sport - if we wanted to reduce this, the best way would be to stop people playing football, but that would be bad for morale (not that I've had a sports afternoon in years). For anyone interested, a lot of the research papers for a lot of the development of the Physical Employment Standards are now being published in academic journals.
Out of the 22 years I served I never got the posting preference I wanted. You're sent to where you're needed, you just have to suck it up and go where they send you.
All I ever wanted was a HGV licence. Never got it, but did go to some amazing places and worked with some brilliant people (and a few bell ends, c'est la vie). As an OR, I think I only ever requested one posting, which I got. For all the others, I was happy to go where I was sent, and in consequence, got sent to some good jobs. Once commissioned, I had some choice, but I did not always get what I wanted, but with hindsight, the Army gave me what I needed for development - what you want and what you need are not always the same.
My advice to those in the forces is be planning ahead of time what you really want to do when you do leave as too many don’t think far enough ahead you will be looking at half of your life left and you will be fit so start years in advance with ideas of life style and income but more about a second adventure
My son went to the AFC Harrogate for six months, phase 2 at Blandford for a year and his first posting was his home town and camp was 2 miles away. I thought as the kids got older they flew the nest. No chance here!!! Great vid by the way
The ability to pick a injured body up correctly and get it to a chopper is for me a very important fitness requirement , the amount of racing snakes in my old outfit that couldn’t do this was staggering
It's all service, thanks for sharing! I miss the days when Army chefs cooked the scoff in barracks over this funky outsourced contact in place now for food.
I grew up a military fanboy desperate for the day I could join the army. I was in the recruiting office at the earliest opportunity wanting to go in the Juniors straight from school. Failed the medical due to a condition affecting my right ear and was devastated. 40 years later and Im thinking failing that medical was the best thing that ever happened to me, I would have absolutely hated the realities of life in the army
Well put together vid, have to give you credit where it's due. With such poor recruiting and retention numbers l would not be surprised if retirement parameters are changed. The Canadian system now allows joiners to be between 17 and 57 with the mandatory retirement set at 60 in most cases, so a 43 yr career is easily attainable. The downside is having 50+ yr old Cpl's as section commanders....
Thanks appreciated. I think it would be great to make contracts longer, you could even have people staying full time in unit training wings etc, that would then free up personnel to remain in fighting or deployable roles.
I was the first male member of my dad's side of the family not to join the armed forces in over 60yrs and as much as it hurt my father I have not one regret. My feelings run so deep on this I will even go as far as to say, I would cripple my boys or grandson's before I saw them forced to enlist and go fight in another foreign war.
Capita needs to be removed. Last time I joined in 2016 I applied in January and started in May/June. This time, I applied in January and I'm still waiting, the medical side is a joke and being a rejoiner has sped things up a little but nowhere near enough.
After doing a full regular career I now recruit for the reserves. It is dire! The medical sift for re-joiners is actually taking LONGER than for bods straight off the street. It's taking months. It could be such a quick win but it's ridiculous. Many just give up.
@@Rangermedia I'm in the final stretch thankfully, I just had a SSMES referral that they need to check over some things. That's currently taking forever, to the point I'm missing my start date I originally was told. I've left my job ready for the start date and now it's just in limbo.
I liked the inset of the guys in harbour starting to build up the model for the O group, brought back some fond and not so fond memories. Hated doing it at night orders in a light proof shelter it was a pain in the ass.
My daughter is an orthopaedic surgeon. She specialises in back injuries. She now always asks the following questions. Were you in the army? Which branch? How long did you serve? The number of 40 - 60-year-old men who have been in the army with back injuries (spondylitis and long-term fractures), far exceeds the normal population. So, the costs for society and the individual are huge. Tabbing carrying heavy loads is the main cause.
Im an ex infantry veteran, did my 22 years service, in my early 60's now and still trying to keep my self in shape, kudos to all our serving troops, like you said it's a lifestyle and always will be, keep up the good work people 😊
When I decided to join the army, my father (serving Royal Marine at the time) told me I needed to be able to run comfortably 5 miles before going in, along with being physically strong which also meant being able to tab at least 1.5 miles with a 35lb pack on. So he made sure I was able to do that before I started. It paid off being that fit before starting basic, it meant I was able to do the physical stuff comfortably especially in the first few weeks.
I never used to do any of my own phys. Squadron PT twice a week was enough. Also when I joined I never did any pre training phys. Basic training is designed to develop your physical conditioning to be up to a level of passing BFT, CFT etc. So once in regiment plenty of time to go on the lash. It’s also worth considering what you’re going to do when you LEAVE. Have a long term exit strategy. Yes you will get resettlement but all these guys and girls who’ve done the full 22 years experience a massive culture shock when you get out. You’re no longer in a bubble where you’re respected because of your rank or unit etc, you’re just average Joe Public, and a lot of ex squaddie’s have trouble dealing with that.
Hi mate- great video as per usual!!! Is there an age limit to for SAS- SBS selection once you have been in your unit and proven to be a good soldier? Thanks 🙏🏻
No age limit but a preferred minimum service of 2 years is required. As you need to have a sound understanding on how to survive and operate in the field. ie Jungle phase. As well as have a good level of robustness built up.
I am in cadets now for 3 years and i live in bangor. Been to palace a few times and absolutely love it. Ive always wanted to join since i was 5 because most of my family have served. The regiment i want to join most is the ranger regiment as i like what they are doing and their skill set. I have to join an infantry regiment first but i was thinking of doing my a levels and leaving school at 18. Do you think this is a good idea?
Great advice, but the age limit would prevent me from joining (40). I would join the Royal Engineers if I could. Electrical engineer for 24years. What are your thoughts about the rumours of Conscription?
Doubt it would happen but I don’t see any problem in up skilling a generation in field craft and fitness etc. If we are in a WW3 scenario then yeah roger it makes sense but forcing people to serve isn’t the best idea in my opinion. If you have someone in the ranks who wants to be there, they operate so much higher and progress further with their role/career.
Don’t do it, they’ll use you, break you and then discard you, and once your out, you’ll have to deal with the MOD, who to be honest are criminals, who’ll do anything to avoid giving you a single £ for what they’ve done to you………That’s where I find myself after 22yrs service.
exa: agreed, Did about 14 years + including junior service and after doing over 12 regular I called it a day. Mod may be better known as 'Ministry of Deceit', lied to on at least two occasions, subjected to threats, intimidation and more on others, saga continues.
My background is shipping. When I went to sea all the Old Salts would tell us we had it easy. But, we had to operate with smaller crews and higher technology. It was different but not easier. I’m a big defender of the young folks today. Yes, there’s a noisy political cadre of them but there’s plenty good hardworking young men and women in the UK who would make good soldiers. I also agree about the world today. My eldest is B Sqn ScotsDG and was with you out in Mali. The situation in Mali and Burkina Faso has declined considerably since the UN withdrawal. I can certainly foresee a NATO or Pan European military intervention in that chaos. As it is very likely to migrate North into Europe. At the end of the Day, it’s only really the UK and France that really possess the capability to operate in the Sahel and Desert. My youngest is in Falcon Sqn RTR. They don’t travel much but arguably have a better chance of deploying in their C-CBRN recce role. Especially with Mr Putin’s penchant for using a nasty chemical here and there. It would be good if the MoD would employ a better marketing company to do the recruitment advertising though….that and ditch Sodexo scoff!
Thanks for sharing some of your experiences Chris and I certainly agree with your comment on good hard working young men and women. To also have two sons serving at the same time must be a proud feeling! MOD marketing is alway a contentious subject but I would say in my opinion that we don't have a recruiting problem. Plenty of Men & Women are wanting to step forward and serve its just the part we get them through the application stage. This biggest choke point being with candidates civilian GPs.
Great video, with really useful advice. I'm 24 looking to join up, specially military intelligence. I currently complete 3-4 3km run a week, 4x 50, push ups, sit ups, mountain climbers, burpees a week and work lifting heavy weights in a warehouse 40hrs a week and religious listen to current affairs. My question is what would you recommend to even more improve myself to give myself a better shot during assessment and more importantly if i get to basic to be able to thrive rather then struggle.
To be fair, the easiest way to look at it is if you don’t join the infantry, then the best cap badge in my opinion is Royal Corps of Signals. It’s the only cap badge where you can stay in the corps you joined, and work across all parts of the military at the lowest and highest levels!! I worked across tactical war fighting, battle group communications, strategic and intelligence based operations, SF and cross government operations with OGD. Also, as a ex PTI, you don’t need to be that fit if you’re not in or attached to an infantry of war fighting battalion. That was the downside to the Corps. When I started and was peak Telic and Herrick, a 140 strong SQN was all on PT and working at a high level of fitness. My last unit, more than half were on the biff and most hadn’t deployed before, so no traumatic type injuries, which speak about their resilience. Non deployable and incapable of performing as a soldier. Was what put me off. Good video for sure! Certa Cito!
comment on your first point of location. a caveat , not necessarily a criticism but. "dont join based on location" UDR. 100 hour weeks. Never saw home. All tough times. No down time. No golly exercises. Losing more chums to combat stress than enemy bullets
Honestly my dad's advice an ex sqaudi for all his flaws was gold and i think it should be told to anyone wanting to join "son if you want to join up then join but make sure its for yourself not me ,ya mam or the country or any dumb shit like that because when your in the arse end of the world with bits and pieces of your mates stuck to you, only you are gonna get yaself back home not me not ya mam and definitely not the government"
Wait so I just need to ask one thing so say if you pass training is it your decision wether you get deployed or not and say if you decided you needed to leave the army how does that work
Generally you are ordered to deploy, although if you have a legitimate welfare or compassionate case you can ask to not deploy, or to delay deployment. If you are in a Corps that sends individual augmentees, you can always volunteer. Not sure of how it works now, but I think once you are past your initial engagement, you can leave at any time with 12 months notice, the notice period can be shortened with CO's approval and agreement of your Career Management desk officer at the Army Personnel Centre. What I would say is that from Day 1, you should have an idea of how long you want to serve and be planning your exit - don't drift through life and don't be a day dreamer who assumes that civilian life is easier than the Army. Your pay is your pay, not pocket money. When your mates are blowing their cash on the pi$$, designed clothes and getting flash cars on finance, don't get sucked in to their normal. Save as much as you can, invest as much as you can - financially and in yourself. Get into property as early as possible. Take every opportunity to develop yourself and if they are not coming your way, ask for them, or study in your spare time.
@@barryalexander2909 thank you so much for this but yeah I know once I join it’s a lifestyle but I do have reasons to as why I want to join but yeah I just think it’s nerves not knowing what it will be like but life just happens to make things work out somehow I live near the the London guards regiment office and been wanting to walk in their even to just talk to someone
Can you give advice for joining as a reservist. I’m considering joining after I graduate uni. I did th UOTC for a year and enjoyed it. I was pretty shit, bumbling round with the SA80 and nearly failing the weapons handling test and feeling a bit clueless with BCD, but I enjoyed it a lot and I stuck at it, turning up to extra sessions to make sure I could at least perform on weekends with an ok level of proficiency. What are the reserves like? I don’t want my life to become dull when I start working and perhaps joining the army as a reserve will give me a story or two to look back on when I’m older. What are your thoughts? Anyone giving advice is super appreciated, cheers
As a veteran I enjoyed the career from basic training too joining my regiment enjoyed 16 yrs of it but with this government in power there is no way I'd go to war for this government or for the king
@leightondavies3127 You don't go to war for the government, if you are a service 'person' it is your duty to do as you agreed to do when you signed up. Only the Police can afford to neglect their duty and avoid enforcing laws that the DEI brigade don't want enforced, if you are a member of his Majesty's Armed Forces you are better than any cop.
@@wjf0ne I been out of the forces since 2007 but I still go to war but for the muppets that's running the country only people I defend now is my Mrs and kids
A lot of people don’t like the fact they’re serving for a fallen country. (Replacing the Union Jack with a Pakistani flag and pride flag) but I’m joining for the experience, the experience you earn especially if you make it into SAS can get you very far.
i would love to apply and have been looking to for 5 months but with the wait and the medical checks im just worried by the time i join my life will be at a completely different point, the governemnt right now is making life difficult so running off for 4 years to a wage that is quite low just doesnt feel right and it comes off corny but is there still soldiers that really believe in king and country or is it just the courses people go for? i really do want to serve my country and i guess im almost stupidly patriotic (which im aware is naive to want to join for that purpose). but when britain are surrendering islands to allies of china without a shot fired i gotta wonder what the army thinks, and what exactly is the purpose? im 24 and was going to apply in august but the riots made me rethink as to what we are defending. (i live in birmingham so it was the yardley riot that made me rethink)
@@JamieWalker-pc6nd it’s not what I am saying. I very much agree with strength and conditioning but it must compliment traditional tabbing/running. As they are the moments required. Using Brecon as an example, the failure rates on the initial assessment are greater than they have ever been and the assessment is much easier than the old 8 mile combat fitness test. The point I’m making in the video is that the individual must take on more physical training and just doing to basic standard required will not help them on career courses or deployments.
exa: There's just one little but very important thing Ranger Media forgot to mention. If they screw up, they will cover up, whatever the cost to you or even to your family. The MoD mob have plenty of help ever-ready and available to them which enables them to deal with you no matter what you may try to seek a fair and just resolution. Most of whom have been claimed to be "working for you", sometimes even by those who are supposed to be "representing you", but don't.
Not so true these days. Service Inquiries are held and publish their (admittedly redacted) findings in the open domain, as are Court Marital Results. The Army as an employer is bound by employment law and human rights act.
@@barryalexander2909 exa: If what you say is true in all cases that is a vast improvement that has taken a long time and has cost a great deal of effort outside of MoD, government, government departments, civil and public services. A lack of willingness to help, and things that went wrong for me during my 14 year + service has cost me my health and had a very significant effect upon my life for most of that life. No details provided. I usually try to avoid trouble when possible...........
A mate of had me rolling around the floor laughing my head off . He was a flt sgt and he got posted to an army base. He had to do the unthinkable and get fit. In his indignent Mackem accent he ranted "I had to go to the gym....... The first thing this knuckle dragging pti told me to do was get my slippers off"
I am a REME veteran who served 20 years until I was made redundant after the 1st Gulf war. I do not doubt for one moment that today's soldiers are just as tough as we were. What annoys me most is that we no longer have an army large enough to cover our commitments to both home defence and NATO. It saddens me to see how successive governments have treated the Armed forces. From homeless vets with PTSD to local councils treating us as war criminals. The RN has been given a shot in the arm as it has been realised by the powers that be that we are still an island nation which relies on imports to sustain ourselves. Hopefully the rest of the armed forces will be given the means to defend ourselves!
@JohnCraig-y6f Britain never maintained a large standing army relying on conscription in times of war. BUT as far back as Blair the traitor they knew they wanted a EU Army. The EU is to control lots of small armies and combine them into one large one should the need arise. It's cheaper for the individual states to do it that way. I could write for hours on the matter, but please don't thank that the evil people in the EU haven't thought this through.
@@wjf0ne I took part in exercise Lionheart in the 1980s. You've never seen such a concentration of firepower! That one event conceived by Reagan and Thatcher scared the crap out of the Soviet Union which resulted in the rise of Gorbachev and the eventual fall of Communism. Such an event could not take place today unless the present political "Elite" get their heads out of their arses and realise that the world is even more dangerous today than it was 30 years ago!
Absolutely no point in joining the army why when our country’s back door is wide open, while your off fighting your country is being taken over by foreign men of fighting age I once served no way I would now or let any of my family This country is finished
It wouldn't be finished if the invader filled queerball / shag island/drug/alcohol obsessed public and current serving and former serving actually fought back against it all here. But, it's easier to cry and be afraid of hurty words and foreign filled- government threats than actually do.
@Anglo-Indian_Celt i have two ex army mates. One earns 60 k every six months protecting Japanese boats. The other earns a fortune as bodyguard in Dubai.
Seriously I have 3 campaign medals one of which is RUC I live in Northern Ireland I walk with the black dog with no help from the government whatsoever no houses no doctor or dentist appointments and watching or country change beyond recognition people men of fighting age invading our country put into hotels given health care I phone money and you expect me or someone like me to go fight away in another country absolutely not and one more thing when I joined the army all your mates joined so you were all life long brothers in towns right across my county now I look and my streets sometimes not hearing a word English the ones you do meet will tell you the same this country is gone no one is going to fight sign up And it’s politicians going back decades that have got us in this mess we are poorer than we were twenty years ago I feel sorry for my kids this country should have been self’s efficient of energy we have been let down we trusted them and look and the mess the greedy self serving pigs that they are I don’t recognise my country anymore Whoo it was nice to get that off my chest
![BOWKYLION - วิงวอน (ex-change) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cLdnZWDaO-w/mqdefault.jpg)
Remember all the Afghan veterans that got left on the streets but now we put random migrants in housing for free, or how about the union jack flag getting replaced for the pride flag in London
There are comparatively few veterans that have been left on the streets. Most veterans benefit immensely from their service and go on to live god lives in civvy street after service. Those friends I know who have PTSD anc CPTSD from multiple tours have managed to hold down jobs and live in their own homes - some have absolutely excelled. I have had conversations with people working in the charity sector that deal with homeless people, often the veterans that they see have complex issues that are often not directly linked to their service. This is frequently connected to traumatic childhood experiences and issues that they had when they joined, or very sadly, drug addictions. The number of 'street homeless' veterans is small; it often transpires that some on the streets claiming to be veterans have not served. The UK has sufficient resource to look after both asylum seekers and veterans - it is not a mutually exclusive activity, but this narrative is often pushed by those with a particular political agenda and seems to have become rooted in the popular psyche.
Thanks for sharing Barry, especially coming from your experiences and people who you have spoken to within the charities and the veterans you know. I am the same, most of the guys I know who have left service are doing very well for themselves.
@@barryalexander2909 my ex would so disagree with you, she’s a trained psychologist and suicide prevention for veterans, her business is call “got your six” if anyone needs, she’s sadly very busy and is disgusted with how vets are being abandoned by the country
@@barryalexander2909 Your post does not mention illegal immigrants, people who depart France, destroy their passports, and refuse to say where they have come from. To call these people Asylum seekers is an insult to genuine Asylum seekers.
Eh nationalism breeds racism nothing wrong with showing flags that show acceptance
I left after 6 years in the infantry. That was 32 years ago, throughout that time, the few strangers, unfamiliar work colleagues, unknown work contacts which have all helped me out at the drop of a hat, without explanation, have all been ex military. The biggest, saddest mistake, which took me a long time to learn after leaving was - I presumed everybody shared the same work ethic, not so in civvy street.
It also took me awhile as well why in the army was work to finish then have a break in civvy street completely different it was fag break let’s send a text message many arguments I’ve had over this but I enjoyed being in the army and keeping fit
I get you mate
Wow totally this comment it's amazing how long it took me to adjust to the lack of support after leaving from having constant support on tap if needed.
So very true..
So true mate. It's dog eat dog and teamwork is unrecognizable vs forces mindset.
Very good briefing. Restored my confidence in the army’s ability to complete whatever mission they are given.
I did 23 years in the infantry, was a PTI for 12 years of that along with an adventure training instructor. Bluffed my way in that respect because it was easy once passing the courses. After that I had to knuckle down and do courses to help me go through the ranks and get up there before I retired. My advice is if you’re going to join, it’s a good life but pick a trade, don’t join the infantry! Have a skill that can be transferred to civil street once you get out.
Not all your advice works ,some service trades are already filled by long serving civilians.
@@tonyfincham6126 My advice to get a trade is wrong? If i had my chance again id never have joined the infantry.
The problem is, without the infantry, the rest becomes obsolete 😅😅
@@theoldhobbit3640 Just like Russian and Ukraine infantry you mean?
@philm3509 Just like any conflict you care to mention, everyone of them needed the infantry. The ongoing conflicts around the world clearly shows the importance of having infantry units on the ground. There is nothing wrong in bettering yourself with a trade, not at all, but being a professional infantry soldier is also a job to be proud of 👍
I served for 39 years regular and reserve forces (Army - RAFVR) 1963 - 2002 and served in the far east from 1965 - 67 active service, UK, BAOR, Canada, Northern Ireland active service, UK. Im now 78 and would do it all again.
Colonialist enforcer. Spent your life enforcing British theft of other people's stuff instead of defending your own country
what branch should i join im stuck between airforce army and marines
Joined the infantry in 87. Left 93.Germany. Belize. Cyprus. NI twice. Good travel. Good mate's. Would I do it again? No. I would have stayed home and got a trade. My advice would be if you do join the army join something that will give you a trade on civvy street, and if you must join the infantry do your 22 years. Don't join at 16 because your pension doesn't start until your 18. Good luck stay safe.
the pension has canged alot for people joining now.
What a great man, thank you for your service and your knowledge
Thanks for watching and supporting. much appreciated.
Hi I served 16 years with 1st royal Irish rangers then 7th city belfast home service and I agree totally with all you said here , first joined in 79 and I hope the fitness required then is still the same now, as you say it's a messy world and if your not fit to fight your gonna have problems. Keep up the good work faug ah ballah.
My husband served in the 1st Royal Irish Rangers, Catterick Camp, as it was then, then Hemer, Germany. He was originally with the Royal Irish Fusiliers then they amalgamated with the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and the Royal Ulster Rifles in 1968. That was many, many moons ago. I was also in the army and many of my family, mum, dad, brother, aunt, uncles, grandfathers all served in the military. My husband did twenty two years in the regulars, transferring from the Rangers in 1975, and five in the TA. I often think we had the best of times. Military is family.
Fitness is definitely essential as well as self discipline, it also helps to have a sense of humour.
I smiled when I saw the motto Faugh-a-Ballagh.
All then best to you and 'Clear the Way!' 😃☘️☘️
Guessing you served in Berlin around about that time then mate?
Yes mate, Chester after that.
@@stephenarmstrong770 Remember your arrival in Berlin vividly (Didn't you take over from a Para Bn? Remember your contribution to the Tattoo also. Especially the pissed up short lad staggering along at the back and the efforts of those in the shadows to collar him out of the band and out of public view. He disappeared on the return leg down the DeutschlandHalle as the band turned into the darkness as the end of the arena. Too late he'd done two lengths by then and had been spotted by thousands! I suspect that stupid little bugger had a few miserable weeks ahead of him after that showing. Me and my mates were pissing ourselves. Hope he is still around to look back on it and wince and laugh at himself in equal measure.
Best posting I had and the antics of your lads when the beer and the pisstaking was flowing (and it usually was within minutes of their arrival) just added to the memories. Your RSM must have had his work cut out. You were a lively, good natured bunch generally and there was never a dull moment. Wasn't the Bn confined to barracks in the first couple of weeks of being there?
Happy days.
@@stephenarmstrong770I was in Chester too. 11 plt, Champion Coy under one ball Stuarty.
Good, solid, timeless, military logical thinking there mate. Joined at 15 years old back in the '60's and left 16 years later. What you're saying was as true then as it is now. My moniker on here is a bit of a giveaway but I only ever had one posting where fitness played little to no part in my role. Even as a Scaleyback we could hold our own in pure fitness terms with most other arms of the army. Mil skills - different matter altogether of course but there was still a min standard expected. I was a constant voice of dissent on mil trg and as part of an Inf Bde I suggested as each of the 3 inf units had a range day/trg day in whatever basic inf skill then our sqn should be asking for slots on that session to keep our skills at least at the basic and even maybe reach some inf skills. No excuse for a tradesman not to know how to handle a GPMG, mortar or A/T or other spec eqpt. To be used as a help to a medic if you're all he has got to help him/her. No need to be experts on it but at least know how to jump into the spot where an infanteer has been incapacitated and at least be able to contribute on spec eqpt in an emergency. All I got for the suggestions was a thousand reasons it wasn't going to happen rather than the one reason it should happen. Not that uncommon in the military that do nothing should prevail over put yourself out and gain the rewards for doing so.
The mantra always was, "You're a soldier first and a tradesman second". Most of us were happy to go with that MO. All too often we were thwarted when it come to putting an event to the mantra. Best and most rewarding mil training I ever received was at the hands of a Belgian inf unit (My memory tells me they were Belgian Paras but all hazy now) I was a shit shot with the SLR. Bloody good on pistol/SMG and just loved the old LMG (NEVER missed with that beautiful lump of metal) Then a Belgian NCO stepped forward and told me to clear my SLR and lay it aside. He gave me a Belgian FN (pretty much the same weapon) (but this thing had a bipod at the front) He gave me a few mags and told me to empty them just get the feel of the weapon - it immediately felt more reassuring. Then he had me, now under the orders of our own rangemaster, do the Brit qualifying process - what a transformation! I didn't miss with one single round! Grouping nothing to shout about but I hit with every single round somewhere where it would make any bugger's eyes water. The big question from me when I stood in front of my SSM after he'd been told and congratulated me was a very stupid, "How come all of us who struggle with this thing can't at least get a range day with a bipod to see if it helps sir?" The answer was pretty predictable and it went along the lines of "Cos the Queen doesn't think you're worth the extra £10 it might cost her, shit for brains!" Once I'd stopped laughing he just quietly offered "It's enough that in there (and he tapped me on the head) you know it's not your ability that's in doubt here lad it's the shit you get issued with" He winked at me and a gesture of his head made me certain it was time for me to foxtrot oscar.
I suspect there are the modern equivalents of that old SSM still offering tidbits of wisdom and forethought to questions they cannot possible answer.
Thanks for all your efforts in these uncertain and possibly doomladen times to you and your peers mate - I'd be amongst many who would be happy to see taxes sky rocket to get the British mil back to the point where we were openly admired by our European and N. American allies and had the military muscle to make Tsar Putrid think twice. Our decline was palpable by the mid 70's and it was just a merry go round of cuts/savings year on year on year and we had become a laughing stock by the time I left in the early 80's. Falklands was our last gasp credibility effort and that came so close to going tits up it should have served as a warning - but didn't.
Once again thanks for all you do and try to do!
I used SLR in the air force. being an ex cadet I was always puzzled about lack of bipod, it felt stupid to be trying to hold the rifle steady when I knew of an easier way. Even as a cadet firing Lee Enfield we could stack a sandbag under as support and got good results.
I am delighted none of my three sons joined the armed forces. First time in five generations. There is nothing here worth fighting for.
@ijm1963
With a defeatist attitude like that it won't be long before someone takes your country from you.
@@wjf0ne They already have.
Totally agree mate
@@wjf0ne It is already happening. Darwinism.
@@wjf0neThe country is only British by name, and it'll that armed forces that'll be the enforcers if civil unrest occurs.
AR here, thanks for the insight. I agree that it is your duty to keep your fitness up, life is hard and war wont be comfortable or convenient. Learning to solider on no matter what is a skill.
As a veteran, I would never serve this King and government. Not that I could, I'm too old now.
What about serving each other?
Mel💯% agree. At least I have the camaraderie of military colleagues.
Sorry brother, but I think you've got it wrong, despite the oath we all take and are usually proud of it when we do take it.. Within two weeks of joining, when we meet some of those special guys that we'll serve with our entire time in service, our future best friends, the best men at our wedding, the God parent to our future children, our friends for life, and in my case I met two lads who'd be killed in Afghanistan and their deaths affected the rest of my life since, within two weeks of meeting those special men, none of us spend another day serving Queen, King, Country, Government, or God! Every day of my 14 years I was there for my mates and my cap badge.
@@DaDaW9762drama queen, you were there for wages.
Cheers Mel, you absolute beefer 😂
CHEERS 23 year veteran wasn`t at all sure how the army of today was going you have in many ways answered my questions 👍👌
Amen to hear this. I’m thinking of Jordan well, I have applied to join as a officer in the army so God bless for this. I really need to hear this.
Not a 9 to 5 job, yep getting woken up at 3am to go on stag still gives me that warm fuzzy feeling!
That's last nights half litre of good German ale being recycled down your combats mate - keeps you warm when it's plummeting down toward freezing point in a hole in Sennelager though.
there are not many 9 to 5 jobs in civvie street now. too many companies trying to bypass employment laws
Stepping up isn't the problem. Most lads would definitely love to join and are currently trying hard to get in. The problem is getting an invitation to selection is the problem.
@@Ironcrossdelta fully agree with you and I have mentioned this in previous videos. I’m fully behind the generation who are wanting to serve, I receive emails & DMs daily from people with this issue. So I fully agree the number of people want to join is high and speaks volume of young British people.
It’s just that process from to get to basic training is the problem.
Reading some great comments. Thank you all for your service! As a fellow countryman, I’m fucking proud of you all! 🫡 🇬🇧 🏴 🇮🇪 🏴 🏴
Eleven years a Sapper Rupert here. All good advice.
I would add to your 2nd/3rd points. You must have a 'can do' attitude, your mates and the structure will get you through if you try (including fitness).
I was in the Yeomanry in the mid 90s, a local TA Regiment, my dad recommended it, he's ex-RM. I enjoyed it. , I was pysically fit(ish), I enjoyed obstacle courses more than long runs I was also a part time pool lifeguard at the time. Never concidered myself a veteran, because I didn't go to war, but I've been told I am.
I was first a junior leader. Then 2 para 15yrs come out after Falkland War. Good life.
Great video 👍
My late father was called up to fight in the Second World War . He had six weeks basic training at Aldershot . He said it was tough and he kept himself pretty fit . He ended up a radio operator for the 25 pounders ….luckily he made it through the war with nothing more than a broken thumb ( playing football lol ) his regiment became part of the BOAR until he was discharged. He was asked to stay on and become a PT instructor….he said six years was enough and came home .
I hope non of these conflicts escalate but sadly I think they will .
Best wishes to you guys who go out there and keep us safe 👍
Brilliantly put as an active aging vet, i wholeheartedly agree to all said, especially the fitness full body fitness, fit body fit mind. FAB
Thanks for watching and for leaving a comment appreciated 💪🇬🇧FAB
Yes, think about it ! As you will protecting the government, not the people
I served in D Coy London Irish Rifles, 4 Battalion Royal Irish Rangers, did my recruit course Depot, St Patrick's Barracks Ballymena 1983, Happy days, Faugh A Ballagh.
Very good briefing. My Grandson wants to join the Army he is looking at Royal Irish he 16. Told him to wait till he 18 then see. I served with the 8 UDR and Royal Irish for a eleven years. Loved it would do it all over again. I let him see your video FAB God bless
Great video once again. Hope your keeping well big man
Well said mate
Amen to hear this. I’m thinking of joining well, I have applied to join as an officer in the army so God bless for this. I really need to hear this. As a Christian myself how would I get not passed but how will I deal with the fact I might have to take life?
Remain within the law, you’ll know that Jesus never instructed Roman soldiers to leave their roles as soldiers to serve him.
@ I don’t think you know how much that has popped into my head . Whenever I think about making this my life decision.
As a Danish military veteran. I have deep respect for the English men with whom I fought side by side with in Helmand Afghanistan
nice one !! spot on.
Accurate, i have done 39yrs joined Infantry and went SSCP in 2008 as a WO1 and now have committed until my 60th birthday in 2028, the long career is there if you want it, oh and good at it 😊
Fitness ABSOLUTEY! I don't want to go into my experience but going in physically fit would have made a tremendous difference
@@theart8039 exactly that and it really does help with everything. Completely free medicine!
Don't be afraid to jump in front of people to get ahead. That's what I was told early on by a PTI. I agree, as long as you are Real.
"spot on " as a Cold War Researcher and 30 years Pegasus (world wide) suspect you are a CSM/C/Sgt? Good video.
Thanks for watching appreciated, yes I am currently a Csgt.
Your talk was well worth it mate bravo🙏👍🇬🇧
Thanks for stopping by 🇬🇧
Currently in and have been for a little over 5 years, The first step is the hardest but once it's done then the walk is simple!
Thanks for this. It is so true!
I joined the US Army in 1980 and served as a soldier until 1996. Then I went to uni, became a Church of Scotland minister and joined the British Army as a chaplain on a short service commission in 2011. In many ways it was like I'd never taken off the uniform. Even now, working as a parish minister, in my sixties, I consider myself a soldier. The habits (good and bad) that I learned, the way of thinking that the army (both UK and US) inculcates, and the feeling of brotherhood with anyone who served are all still with me. I don't expect this will ever change. Your commitment to serve never expires -- at least, not in your heart. Either that or you were never a soldier to start with.
On physical fitness. SCR reflects the most basic standard required to serve in any role. The RFT(S) is the output standard from trade training and is the most basic standard that the science indicates (based on performance data from hundreds of serving soldiers in each trade) to be *employed* in a given role. The idea is that this is the most basic standard that everyone should be able to achieve at all times, through career, regardless of age. When units are preparing for a particular deployment, or operational role (e.g. high readiness) and when individuals are preparing for an arduous career course (Juniors, Seniors, specialist weapons etc., All Arms PPS/Commando course ) they should be seeking to reach well beyond those most basic standards - further, faster, more kit etc, but if they try to maintain this standard constantly, they will likely become injured - hence why there should be periodised and cyclical training and polarisation in training (you shouldn't make every session an out and out thrashing, there needs to be easier 'recovery' sessions - which i think you have covered previously on this channel). If anyone is dipping for the line at 14:59 for the 2km loaded march, they need to seriously look at their personal fitness. Anecdotally, a lot of soldiers seem to want to achieve the bare minimum to get by (no doubt this will vary from unit to unit and is a question of culture and attitude rather than an issue with the tests. The tests were developed through detailed analysis of the generic physical tasks of a trade, and reflect the requirements of a reasonable, rather than an absolute worst case scenario. The bottom line is that the for the first time in its history, the Army has tests that are supported by science as opposed to a SWAG (scientific wild arsed guess), or the pace at which the CO's dog can run, based on operational job roles rather than good ideas and are therefore legally defensible should a claim be brought. The Army Physical Training System caters for running and CV work, but I do agree that as an organistion we have become fixated on the S&C aspects, which are essential as they help to prevent MSKI - the aim is to strengthen the chassis, build and then fine tune the engine. Most MSKI occur when soldiers are playing sport - if we wanted to reduce this, the best way would be to stop people playing football, but that would be bad for morale (not that I've had a sports afternoon in years). For anyone interested, a lot of the research papers for a lot of the development of the Physical Employment Standards are now being published in academic journals.
Out of the 22 years I served I never got the posting preference I wanted. You're sent to where you're needed, you just have to suck it up and go where they send you.
All I ever wanted was a HGV licence. Never got it, but did go to some amazing places and worked with some brilliant people (and a few bell ends, c'est la vie). As an OR, I think I only ever requested one posting, which I got. For all the others, I was happy to go where I was sent, and in consequence, got sent to some good jobs. Once commissioned, I had some choice, but I did not always get what I wanted, but with hindsight, the Army gave me what I needed for development - what you want and what you need are not always the same.
@@barryalexander2909If ordered would you walk the streets of your own country to prevent mass civil unrest if ordered from the top?.
My advice to those in the forces is be planning ahead of time what you really want to do when you do leave as too many don’t think far enough ahead you will be looking at half of your life left and you will be fit so start years in advance with ideas of life style and income but more about a second adventure
My son went to the AFC Harrogate for six months, phase 2 at Blandford for a year and his first posting was his home town and camp was 2 miles away. I thought as the kids got older they flew the nest. No chance here!!! Great vid by the way
Yes that’s very close to the nest indeed! I’m sure his next posting will be abit further a field.
The ability to pick a injured body up correctly and get it to a chopper is for me a very important fitness requirement , the amount of racing snakes in my old outfit that couldn’t do this was staggering
I did 17 years in the army, okay? I was a chef. I did serve with some fantastic people and units. Fantastic video.
It's all service, thanks for sharing! I miss the days when Army chefs cooked the scoff in barracks over this funky outsourced contact in place now for food.
I grew up a military fanboy desperate for the day I could join the army. I was in the recruiting office at the earliest opportunity wanting to go in the Juniors straight from school. Failed the medical due to a condition affecting my right ear and was devastated. 40 years later and Im thinking failing that medical was the best thing that ever happened to me, I would have absolutely hated the realities of life in the army
Thanks for sharing your story and you are right, service life is not for everyone.
An excellent video- good work
Well put together vid, have to give you credit where it's due. With such poor recruiting and retention numbers l would not be surprised if retirement parameters are changed. The Canadian system now allows joiners to be between 17 and 57 with the mandatory retirement set at 60 in most cases, so a 43 yr career is easily attainable. The downside is having 50+ yr old Cpl's as section commanders....
Thanks appreciated. I think it would be great to make contracts longer, you could even have people staying full time in unit training wings etc, that would then free up personnel to remain in fighting or deployable roles.
I was the first male member of my dad's side of the family not to join the armed forces in over 60yrs and as much as it hurt my father I have not one regret. My feelings run so deep on this I will even go as far as to say, I would cripple my boys or grandson's before I saw them forced to enlist and go fight in another foreign war.
Capita needs to be removed. Last time I joined in 2016 I applied in January and started in May/June. This time, I applied in January and I'm still waiting, the medical side is a joke and being a rejoiner has sped things up a little but nowhere near enough.
@@ParrishStrongman yeah I’m with you there mate and you’ve highlighted the exact part of it, the medical part in specific GPs
After doing a full regular career I now recruit for the reserves. It is dire! The medical sift for re-joiners is actually taking LONGER than for bods straight off the street. It's taking months. It could be such a quick win but it's ridiculous. Many just give up.
@@Meonherenow yes I fully agree with you. Anyone I speak to ref this, it comes down to medical process. Its failing.
@@Rangermedia I'm in the final stretch thankfully, I just had a SSMES referral that they need to check over some things. That's currently taking forever, to the point I'm missing my start date I originally was told. I've left my job ready for the start date and now it's just in limbo.
Great advice
I liked the inset of the guys in harbour starting to build up the model for the O group, brought back some fond and not so fond memories. Hated doing it at night orders in a light proof shelter it was a pain in the ass.
Wise words 👍
My daughter is an orthopaedic surgeon. She specialises in back injuries. She now always asks the following questions. Were you in the army? Which branch? How long did you serve? The number of 40 - 60-year-old men who have been in the army with back injuries (spondylitis and long-term fractures), far exceeds the normal population. So, the costs for society and the individual are huge. Tabbing carrying heavy loads is the main cause.
Im an ex infantry veteran, did my 22 years service, in my early 60's now and still trying to keep my self in shape, kudos to all our serving troops, like you said it's a lifestyle and always will be, keep up the good work people 😊
Thanks for sharing your experience! ⚔️🇬🇧
When I decided to join the army, my father (serving Royal Marine at the time) told me I needed to be able to run comfortably 5 miles before going in, along with being physically strong which also meant being able to tab at least 1.5 miles with a 35lb pack on. So he made sure I was able to do that before I started. It paid off being that fit before starting basic, it meant I was able to do the physical stuff comfortably especially in the first few weeks.
Serve if you love it, youll know if you love it when you do your basic/ phase one
I never used to do any of my own phys. Squadron PT twice a week was enough. Also when I joined I never did any pre training phys. Basic training is designed to develop your physical conditioning to be up to a level of passing BFT, CFT etc. So once in regiment plenty of time to go on the lash.
It’s also worth considering what you’re going to do when you LEAVE. Have a long term exit strategy. Yes you will get resettlement but all these guys and girls who’ve done the full 22 years experience a massive culture shock when you get out. You’re no longer in a bubble where you’re respected because of your rank or unit etc, you’re just average Joe Public, and a lot of ex squaddie’s have trouble dealing with that.
Really enjoyed watching, please can you mention what watch you wear and if you would recommend it?
Hi mate- great video as per usual!!!
Is there an age limit to for SAS- SBS selection once you have been in your unit and proven to be a good soldier?
Thanks 🙏🏻
No age limit but a preferred minimum service of 2 years is required. As you need to have a sound understanding on how to survive and operate in the field. ie Jungle phase. As well as have a good level of robustness built up.
I am in cadets now for 3 years and i live in bangor. Been to palace a few times and absolutely love it. Ive always wanted to join since i was 5 because most of my family have served. The regiment i want to join most is the ranger regiment as i like what they are doing and their skill set. I have to join an infantry regiment first but i was thinking of doing my a levels and leaving school at 18. Do you think this is a good idea?
Biggest mistake I made before joining was, not building my fitness levels up before basic training! “Faugh A Ballagh” 1 RIR 2004-2009
Great advice, but the age limit would prevent me from joining (40). I would join the Royal Engineers if I could. Electrical engineer for 24years.
What are your thoughts about the rumours of Conscription?
Doubt it would happen but I don’t see any problem in up skilling a generation in field craft and fitness etc.
If we are in a WW3 scenario then yeah roger it makes sense but forcing people to serve isn’t the best idea in my opinion.
If you have someone in the ranks who wants to be there, they operate so much higher and progress further with their role/career.
The age limits are more lenient now for some trades. You could probably easily join the Reserves.
Don’t do it, they’ll use you, break you and then discard you, and once your out, you’ll have to deal with the MOD, who to be honest are criminals, who’ll do anything to avoid giving you a single £ for what they’ve done to you………That’s where I find myself after 22yrs service.
exa: agreed, Did about 14 years + including junior service and after doing over 12 regular I called it a day. Mod may be better known as 'Ministry of Deceit', lied to on at least two occasions, subjected to threats, intimidation and more on others, saga continues.
I agree you must be bonkers to join up , get injured and cast aside unlike US veterans who get looked after
My background is shipping. When I went to sea all the Old Salts would tell us we had it easy. But, we had to operate with smaller crews and higher technology. It was different but not easier.
I’m a big defender of the young folks today. Yes, there’s a noisy political cadre of them but there’s plenty good hardworking young men and women in the UK who would make good soldiers.
I also agree about the world today. My eldest is B Sqn ScotsDG and was with you out in Mali. The situation in Mali and Burkina Faso has declined considerably since the UN withdrawal. I can certainly foresee a NATO or Pan European military intervention in that chaos. As it is very likely to migrate North into Europe. At the end of the Day, it’s only really the UK and France that really possess the capability to operate in the Sahel and Desert.
My youngest is in Falcon Sqn RTR. They don’t travel much but arguably have a better chance of deploying in their C-CBRN recce role. Especially with Mr Putin’s penchant for using a nasty chemical here and there.
It would be good if the MoD would employ a better marketing company to do the recruitment advertising though….that and ditch Sodexo scoff!
Thanks for sharing some of your experiences Chris and I certainly agree with your comment on good hard working young men and women. To also have two sons serving at the same time must be a proud feeling!
MOD marketing is alway a contentious subject but I would say in my opinion that we don't have a recruiting problem. Plenty of Men & Women are wanting to step forward and serve its just the part we get them through the application stage. This biggest choke point being with candidates civilian GPs.
Any recruiting sergeant should tell all this. Its good common sense.
Great video, with really useful advice. I'm 24 looking to join up, specially military intelligence. I currently complete 3-4 3km run a week, 4x 50, push ups, sit ups, mountain climbers, burpees a week and work lifting heavy weights in a warehouse 40hrs a week and religious listen to current affairs. My question is what would you recommend to even more improve myself to give myself a better shot during assessment and more importantly if i get to basic to be able to thrive rather then struggle.
1st Bn RIR 82-86.
Steel blingers, SLR and puttees.
Happy days.
I loved pt and yeah wish i picked a trade, infantry doesn't,but the army is still hardcore
Try the Royal Marines. I did and have never regretted it.
Yeah sure
To be fair, the easiest way to look at it is if you don’t join the infantry, then the best cap badge in my opinion is Royal Corps of Signals.
It’s the only cap badge where you can stay in the corps you joined, and work across all parts of the military at the lowest and highest levels!! I worked across tactical war fighting, battle group communications, strategic and intelligence based operations, SF and cross government operations with OGD.
Also, as a ex PTI, you don’t need to be that fit if you’re not in or attached to an infantry of war fighting battalion. That was the downside to the Corps. When I started and was peak Telic and Herrick, a 140 strong SQN was all on PT and working at a high level of fitness.
My last unit, more than half were on the biff and most hadn’t deployed before, so no traumatic type injuries, which speak about their resilience. Non deployable and incapable of performing as a soldier. Was what put me off.
Good video for sure!
Certa Cito!
5:00 Union flag in background, is upside down FFS what unit did that?
This 75 year old vet would go straight back in if I had my time again.
Courses lol 13.5 years in rangers and regt. never once had a course or left batt.
comment on your first point of location. a caveat , not necessarily a criticism but. "dont join based on location" UDR. 100 hour weeks. Never saw home. All tough times. No down time. No golly exercises. Losing more chums to combat stress than enemy bullets
They close the porter for registration remember about few months back
Honestly my dad's advice an ex sqaudi for all his flaws was gold and i think it should be told to anyone wanting to join "son if you want to join up then join but make sure its for yourself not me ,ya mam or the country or any dumb shit like that because when your in the arse end of the world with bits and pieces of your mates stuck to you, only you are gonna get yaself back home not me not ya mam and definitely not the government"
Any advice to someone who's currently doing the application process?
Wait so I just need to ask one thing so say if you pass training is it your decision wether you get deployed or not and say if you decided you needed to leave the army how does that work
Generally you are ordered to deploy, although if you have a legitimate welfare or compassionate case you can ask to not deploy, or to delay deployment. If you are in a Corps that sends individual augmentees, you can always volunteer. Not sure of how it works now, but I think once you are past your initial engagement, you can leave at any time with 12 months notice, the notice period can be shortened with CO's approval and agreement of your Career Management desk officer at the Army Personnel Centre. What I would say is that from Day 1, you should have an idea of how long you want to serve and be planning your exit - don't drift through life and don't be a day dreamer who assumes that civilian life is easier than the Army. Your pay is your pay, not pocket money. When your mates are blowing their cash on the pi$$, designed clothes and getting flash cars on finance, don't get sucked in to their normal. Save as much as you can, invest as much as you can - financially and in yourself. Get into property as early as possible. Take every opportunity to develop yourself and if they are not coming your way, ask for them, or study in your spare time.
@@barryalexander2909 thank you so much for this but yeah I know once I join it’s a lifestyle but I do have reasons to as why I want to join but yeah I just think it’s nerves not knowing what it will be like but life just happens to make things work out somehow I live near the the London guards regiment office and been wanting to walk in their even to just talk to someone
No idea why this video was recommended, but I will say this, ‘We get our hands dirty and the world stays clean. That’s the mission’
Salute
And to you 🫡
Can you give advice for joining as a reservist. I’m considering joining after I graduate uni. I did th UOTC for a year and enjoyed it.
I was pretty shit, bumbling round with the SA80 and nearly failing the weapons handling test and feeling a bit clueless with BCD, but I enjoyed it a lot and I stuck at it, turning up to extra sessions to make sure I could at least perform on weekends with an ok level of proficiency.
What are the reserves like? I don’t want my life to become dull when I start working and perhaps joining the army as a reserve will give me a story or two to look back on when I’m older. What are your thoughts?
Anyone giving advice is super appreciated, cheers
I’m considering to join in 4 years
I will love to join the army but my application is still pending on 2 ticks
Well if I was you Steve, I would get them removed or you will get Lyme's Disease!!!!
As a veteran I enjoyed the career from basic training too joining my regiment enjoyed 16 yrs of it but with this government in power there is no way I'd go to war for this government or for the king
@leightondavies3127
You don't go to war for the government, if you are a service 'person' it is your duty to do as you agreed to do when you signed up.
Only the Police can afford to neglect their duty and avoid enforcing laws that the DEI brigade don't want enforced, if you are a member of his Majesty's Armed Forces you are better than any cop.
@@wjf0neYou do go to war for the gov, they cause the wars. I served 13 years and would not fight for the shower of s… ruining our once great country.
@@wjf0ne I been out of the forces since 2007 but I still go to war but for the muppets that's running the country only people I defend now is my Mrs and kids
Defo a life style
A lot of people don’t like the fact they’re serving for a fallen country. (Replacing the Union Jack with a Pakistani flag and pride flag) but I’m joining for the experience, the experience you earn especially if you make it into SAS can get you very far.
If you do you keep an eye out for buses!!
[Fight for a government that hates you, will sell you out at a drop of a hat and let you suffer once your usefulness is up?]
Can infantry reserves, from say PWRR, apply to join the Ranger Regiment in ether a full time or part time role?
i would love to apply and have been looking to for 5 months but with the wait and the medical checks im just worried by the time i join my life will be at a completely different point, the governemnt right now is making life difficult so running off for 4 years to a wage that is quite low just doesnt feel right and it comes off corny but is there still soldiers that really believe in king and country or is it just the courses people go for?
i really do want to serve my country and i guess im almost stupidly patriotic (which im aware is naive to want to join for that purpose). but when britain are surrendering islands to allies of china without a shot fired i gotta wonder what the army thinks, and what exactly is the purpose?
im 24 and was going to apply in august but the riots made me rethink as to what we are defending. (i live in birmingham so it was the yardley riot that made me rethink)
3:34 it doesn’t make any sense to give your squad shin splints before a deployment let’s be realistic.
This is actually a positive change… amazingly
@@JamieWalker-pc6nd it’s not what I am saying. I very much agree with strength and conditioning but it must compliment traditional tabbing/running. As they are the moments required.
Using Brecon as an example, the failure rates on the initial assessment are greater than they have ever been and the assessment is much easier than the old 8 mile combat fitness test.
The point I’m making in the video is that the individual must take on more physical training and just doing to basic standard required will not help them on career courses or deployments.
Do they accept if got adhd or similar conditions?
I’m trying to join the army in about 2years when I’m 18, I’m shit at cardio tho anyone know how I can improve?
exa: There's just one little but very important thing Ranger Media forgot to mention. If they screw up, they will cover up, whatever the cost to you or even to your family. The MoD mob have plenty of help ever-ready and available to them which enables them to deal with you no matter what you may try to seek a fair and just resolution. Most of whom have been claimed to be "working for you", sometimes even by those who are supposed to be "representing you", but don't.
Not so true these days. Service Inquiries are held and publish their (admittedly redacted) findings in the open domain, as are Court Marital Results. The Army as an employer is bound by employment law and human rights act.
@@barryalexander2909 exa: If what you say is true in all cases that is a vast improvement that has taken a long time and has cost a great deal of effort outside of MoD, government, government departments, civil and public services. A lack of willingness to help, and things that went wrong for me during my 14 year + service has cost me my health and had a very significant effect upon my life for most of that life. No details provided. I usually try to avoid trouble when possible...........
tell that to the recruit(s) murdered at Deepcut. @@barryalexander2909
hows sandhurst colour?
Fantastic, thanks for asking mate 💪🇬🇧
A mate of had me rolling around the floor laughing my head off . He was a flt sgt and he got posted to an army base. He had to do the unthinkable and get fit. In his indignent Mackem accent he ranted
"I had to go to the gym....... The first thing this knuckle dragging pti told me to do was get my slippers off"
I am a REME veteran who served 20 years until I was made redundant after the 1st Gulf war. I do not doubt for one moment that today's soldiers are just as tough as we were. What annoys me most is that we no longer have an army large enough to cover our commitments to both home defence and NATO. It saddens me to see how successive governments have treated the Armed forces. From homeless vets with PTSD to local councils treating us as war criminals. The RN has been given a shot in the arm as it has been realised by the powers that be that we are still an island nation which relies on imports to sustain ourselves. Hopefully the rest of the armed forces will be given the means to defend ourselves!
@JohnCraig-y6f
Britain never maintained a large standing army relying on conscription in times of war.
BUT as far back as Blair the traitor they knew they wanted a EU Army. The EU is to control lots of small armies and combine them into one large one should the need arise. It's cheaper for the individual states to do it that way.
I could write for hours on the matter, but please don't thank that the evil people in the EU haven't thought this through.
@@wjf0ne I took part in exercise Lionheart in the 1980s. You've never seen such a concentration of firepower! That one event conceived by Reagan and Thatcher scared the crap out of the Soviet Union which resulted in the rise of Gorbachev and the eventual fall of Communism. Such an event could not take place today unless the present political "Elite" get their heads out of their arses and realise that the world is even more dangerous today than it was 30 years ago!
Who wants to fight the globalists wars
No.
i wouldnt dare fight for this country
Its not like people are rushing to join...
Absolutely no point in joining the army why when our country’s back door is wide open, while your off fighting your country is being taken over by foreign men of fighting age I once served no way I would now or let any of my family
This country is finished
It wouldn't be finished if the invader filled queerball / shag island/drug/alcohol obsessed public and current serving and former serving actually fought back against it all here. But, it's easier to cry and be afraid of hurty words and foreign filled- government threats than actually do.
It’s precisely because this country is finished that young men should serve. Can emigrate with a soldiers skills.
@Anglo-Indian_Celt i have two ex army mates. One earns 60 k every six months protecting Japanese boats. The other earns a fortune as bodyguard in Dubai.
Same here mate
Seriously I have 3 campaign medals one of which is RUC I live in Northern Ireland I walk with the black dog with no help from the government whatsoever no houses no doctor or dentist appointments and watching or country change beyond recognition people men of fighting age invading our country put into hotels given health care I phone money and you expect me or someone like me to go fight away in another country absolutely not and one more thing when I joined the army all your mates joined so you were all life long brothers in towns right across my county now I look and my streets sometimes not hearing a word English the ones you do meet will tell you the same this country is gone no one is going to fight sign up
And it’s politicians going back decades that have got us in this mess we are poorer than we were twenty years ago I feel sorry for my kids this country should have been self’s efficient of energy we have been let down we trusted them and look and the mess the greedy self serving pigs that they are I don’t recognise my country anymore
Whoo it was nice to get that off my chest