I could only imagine the eye opening experience today’s youth would have listening and witnessing these kind of men. The thought of gang violence and ✌🏼✌🏼beef, would seem like a game of bulldog.
Passing the training alone is hard enough. Secondly, good soldiers dont do it for a thrill. Possibly the only way youd understand is to speak to soldiers. Or read some WW1 poetry. Siegfried Sassoon etc.
reading about British soldiers in the Korean War, this is the tradition. Some people say it has gone now, but I think it's still around, just in a different way.
I joined at 16 in 1979, I agree with the point that at that age you knew no different, I was on around £30 a week it seemed like a good wage. The commando spirit has got me through a few issues in my civvy life such as a bout of legionaries disease that nearly did for me and two knee replacements in my 50s ( probably due to my active life style) I’m still active and run my own successful tree contracting business and still drag my arse and my two false knees to work each day. Respect to all serving Royals and those who have, its a special family.
Good talk guys ex marine my self ,45 Cdo Falklands and NI ,Ireland wasn’t to bad ,the Falklands after the battle on two sisters,the guys Found it hard to accept what we just live through, but now we look back and think thing’s aren’t so bad . I now run a garage Car & motorbike restoration ,been doing it 22 years ( should get the hang of it any day soon ) 👍👍 life can certainly be up hill
scott ScottMechanics - good luck to you bonnie lad. I was working down south (Esso Fawley) as a young pipe fitter when the Falkland war kicked off. We were living in Pool Dorset and knocking about with young marines on a weekend for a “few” beers. They were like caged tigers waiting for the off. I just hope they made it back in one piece
I struggled so much with this very feeling, and still do sometimes, feel like my life peaked in my 20's and now life is just a play... feel totally lost sometimes.. dont know if I'll ever get round the feeling, I turn 40 in May and when I watch the videos of us Parachuting I sit and think "is that really me ," ... feels like another life ..
Jocko Willink talks about his life appearing to exist to him as a series of chunks of time, so for a chunk of time he was in school, then for a chunk of time he was a SEAL, etc. My advice to anyone who's left the military and is feeling disconnected and worthless - and I say this as someone who left the military over a decade ago and still has times when he feels disconnected and worthless - find something, anything, to make this chunk interesting. Try as many different things as you can and the moment you find one where you think, hey, this is pretty good, this is interesting, pursue it. I started riding motorcycles and learned how to work on cars and got better at two other languages and kind of accidentally fell arse-backwards into a job that I love and don't want to leave any time soon, but I only found those things because I tried a heap of things. Find something to make this chunk of time interesting, and when this chunk ends, as all chunks do, find something else to make the next chunk interesting.
@@johnhanrahan6246 I thought I’d fact checked it, think I’d read Ants book last year but I couldn’t remember the video I commented on hence it was still there!! Ha. I’ve edited it now. Don’t wanna be giving out misinformation 😂😂 Some man Aldo, you watched him do the 3 Peaks challenge in 24hrs? Brutal! And rode his motorbike to the climbs, that’s a lot of miles to stay switched on✌🏻
@@MrSmid888 yeah I have just finished two of his books. The fear bubble and first man in, both fantastic reads. The only reason I read them was because he started his career in the royal Engineers which was the same as me. I haven’t to be fair! He’s a brilliant character so I’ll definitely have a look into it. Cool that he rides bikes too 😎
A shock felt after discharge is when you realise that you fell for the scam, what you thought was a career was actually a short term job, because the military is not a career, except for a very small percentage of those who enlist. An interesting and some times thrilling and dangerous job but still a job. After a long life you realise that the time in the military was just one of the jobs that you did to earn a living. For most who join the military it is a relatively short period of your life compared to your whole life, and yet it seems to leave the greatest impression on how you view the world, and, the most valued memories.
But you can do stuff afterwards right ? Vip protection, border force, police. I'm not from England but i guess a veteran, especially someone like these guys would have so many doors open to him.
@Dominus Providebit Yea, nothing compared to their actual training. Let's say they're simply done with operations time for something else in their country.
David Boson I mean a lot of SOF guys make it their career, as well as many officers. There’s also enlisted years who go for 20+ years for the benefits.
I can relate to this so much after 3 tours of Iraq and 1 of afghan and struggling to settle back into normal life. Best 11 years of my life but I'm paying for it now
Stumbled upon this yesterday and, as an ex-military guy (22yr career in the British Army) I can totally relate to the 'being lost' and feelings of 'worthlessness' and 'anger' experienced by these fellas. I (eventually) learned to accept my life and 'take charge' of it. Finding value in helping others (teaching/ instructing) and accepting that everyone, military or not, has their own (often more difficult) story and their own daily struggles. Thanks for being so open! This will help many people; not just ex-military pers and not just blokes. Subscribed ;-)
I went civilian in 2011 and I'm still struggling. I guess warriors can't retire; salutations from 2nd Parachute Regiment of the French Foreign Legion/Pathfinder Company...
I had two inlaws in the Royal Marines and both agreed that they found it hard to be civilians. They put it like this. When they were serving, they didn't need to worry about food, housing, medical needs, smy of these things. They both agreed that it is harder being a civilian ... I found that interesting.
I think it depends on who you are as a person. I for one found military life harder. I was 17 when I joined and served two years in the infantry. I was probably a bit mentally weak but I was motivated and didnt want to be a bitch lol. That sums my experience up.
The bit about struggling after leaving the forces strikes a chord with me. I joined up at 16 and left at 23 and the element of knowing I was no longer being ‘looked after’ was really difficult and I regretted leaving. I’m not quite sure how long it took to accept that situation, but it was definitely years rather than months. Really enjoying this video; two top blokes.
Left the Army in 2016 after nearly 9 years, I can relate to all these feelings. The system breaks you down then builds you up. Then civvie street smashes you in the face twice as hard. You gotta be the captain of your own ship 👍🏼 thanks lads, great watch.
Im currently in my paras application, i was supposed to have my prac on the 4th may but due to the recent virus its being delayed, these type of guys inspire me to better myself, i can't wait to be in the army.
I am a rejoiner, my selection on the 7th April in Edinburgh has just been cancelled, hopefully get that and prac done asap and get back to ITC for the 28weeks of good news
Love this. Real humble truth from two badass guys. I've just applied to the Royal Marines Reserve so I can maintain my job on civvy street. Been wanting to join the forces for years, so looking forward to the challenge!
23:30 is the first and best advice I give to anyone who is leaving the military. You can't run around hating civi's because of the way they live their lives. We have to fit in with them because we're in their world now. It took me a long time to figure that out after leaving but once you're at that point, life gets so much better.
Many Vets describe their life after leaving the Corps is another war after a war. PTSD, depression, relationship problem......For those who manage to return home safe, their sacrifice is beyond their service time, it is their whole life because many of them continue to struggle with mental health problem, unable to adjust, etc. This is a very heartfelt, humble conversation from two big men. Thank you for your service and wish you the very best! From Canada.
HollyW yes, don’t bother with the Army. They’ll kick you out and forget about you without a second thought. The suicide rate amongst veterans is a national scandal
@@wernesgruder1 I'm ex army. Every man and women I served with are family to me. I've never thought that I've been forgotten. Help is there if you want it. Remember it's very hard to talk for some people, and that's the problem. The first step is to admit you have a problem. People aren't mind readers. I've been homeless living on the streets of London and Liverpool for about 3 years. I've been suicidal to the point I've slit my wrists and stood on a bridge. I've never blamed the military for how I feel. I knew what I was signing up for, I knew that I would probably end up in a fire fight and I may be killed or wounded. There's more help nowadays for veterans than ever before. My old man never had any help in the 70s and 80s and he still suffers to this day. It's a shame that any vet has to suffer but that's life. If you were to ask any of them though, 99% wouldn't blame the military
My old dad joined up in 1944, then spent his whole career in the services, leaving 7 years to do civvy street before officially retiring. It failed, he didn't respect that people did things differently, thought things differently while he still tried to do things the service way. His new workmates wouldn't have it. Result, depression. Another guy I met with similar background did it like this. He cleared his desk, ditched the uniform, it was over, no looking back, every day only forward. He did ok.
My father too spent his life in the military and could not get on in civilian life. Everything was black or white. There was a right way to do something and a wrong way. He couldn't adjust to the shortcomings of civilians or acknowledge his own. Unfortunately he instilled much of that mindset in me with both good and negative consequences.
After college im joining the marines and a close family friend is an ex marine and his stories are just incredible and he is one of the best men I have ever met and I want to be like that and to be in this elite unit I would truly give anything
Big adjustment in life for the military and they’ve a lot in common with sportsmen. Careers are finished in late 30s ,early 40s when most of us have jobs we can crack on in until retirement. These guys have to re-invent themselves but not only that they probably know there not gonna get the excitement they once had. Got perspective from both of these.
@@bendobbing9239 There was a scrumpy house at the bottom of Union Street cider was 14p a pint and I would get leaping for a quid. There would be an aha moment as I woke up doing the back stroke in my swamped pit. Happy days.
Just remembered it was called the United Services and was frequented by tramps dossers and bootnecks....at the weekend toff tottie would rove around looking for a bit of ruff....crackin laff. One of the best runs I had in there was suddenly looking down and I was getting a blow job which in my drunken haze thought fair do....then noticed the barmaid going apoplectic......work hard play hard....
@@jointlucas8187 id say paras but thats only because i experienced it ,do you know P company,its bloody hard aha but the royal marine test is hard to they focus more on the combat side of things id say.but this is only from what ive heard and seen.
@DON KING i served 4 years and 2 tours of Afghanistan and i left just after British troops were pulled out of Afghan by that time i done what i wanted to do and a lot lads moved on at that time too,being a pilot was something id always wanted to do so being able to stay with the British armed forces but be a pilot at the same time seemed great better than being sat around in room with 5 others lads or freezing cold in a tent on exercise there was no more fear or excitement to be deployed to a warzone,if i stayed i probably would of been deployed to the falklands and that didnt sound great to be honest so i left people seemed to think if other leave its becuase they hated it or got 'bored' which isn't true i loved it sounds stupid bullets flying past my head but it was great made new mates learnt new things even though i was trained to kill i was shit scared of getting shot,on one patrol in Helmand i got shot in lower arm only 1 round but it fucking hurt, i thought a 3rd tour was pushing my luck a bit to haha so joined the RAF in mid 2016
When in harm's way my biggest fear was that I might let down my mates and those that I was responsible for. The enemy , those trying to kill me, didn't worry me at all. I knew that me and the lads would overcome. Afterwards the awfulness of what we had experienced filled our minds accompanied by a large measure of guilt at causing so many women to live through the pain of losing their husband, son, or good friend and the support from them that they would have expected and received.
I worked on the redesign / rebuild of the HMRTC at Lympstone about 12 years ago - made me chuckle when Aldo referenced Lympstone! Great content chaps thank you and all the best :)
Former Bootneck, joined at 16, top life, set me up for the rest of my life, miss the buzz every day. Found it in other aspects of civvie life . Carry on
It’s not until you listen to these guys, you realise so many different aspects of what they have been through. Feeling worthless after what must feel like giving their life for everyone is hideous. Trying to learn what you want in life and making it happen. Being part of something so strong and then feel like you are standing on the outside. Relearning your life under your own direction and not the military must feel so alien. Respect to all of you.
I could listen to stories of most of the guys that have commented on here about experiences past and present.. massive respect to our boys that protect our country ❤
Aldo hit the nail on the head when he said you have no sense of worth when you first get out. I was in for a lot less time and that is the thing I struggled with most when transitioning from the army to a 'normal' life. I think it is often an overlooked part of leaving because it isn't really associated with poor mental health but I can see how if you don't have a support system it can develop into a problem. Could be something you get over quickly but it could also be the thing that tips someone over the edge, especially if that person has problems with their mental health. Also like he says shortly after, you need to take charge and change will happen. I hope you all find that next thing!
Don't do it...think very carefully if you're really doing it because it just sounds cool and you want people to think you're tough. It's really not worth it. Best think to do is get a normal job and then join the reserves (ideally in the Royal Engineers regiment where you can either learn a trade or become an officer for the management/leadership training). You'll go through the same basic training and can go for the AACC (commando course) along with loads of other opportunities...but if you decide you don't like it you can quit without notice and you'll not have any issues re-assimilating into civvie street. Best of both worlds...almost every ex soldier will say the same thing.
I visited CTCRM as a boy and whilst I enjoyed all the kit, the Tarzan course etc it was the character of the Marines themselves that impressed, and always does. Hearing it here with Jason and Aldo it continues...
That must’ve felt bit odd for you both to do as you know each other well but please dont underestimate the number people that that will help. And not just ex military, so many thanks for committing your time to do that.
So down to earth and as already stated by others, really humble. Both really interesting guys and you could envisage listening to them Over a beer and enjoy every moment of it.
craig your a inspiration !! you should hold ur head high 23 years under your belt and treated like u were ! A work with homeless here in glasgow and the amount of ex militry men on the streets here is disgraceful ! I would be willing to sit down with yourself and see if there is any support we can arrange to change this naritive for our troops !! your a star mate pure hero xxxx
Very enjoyable vlog guys, thanks for that. I trod a similar path in so many ways and so many of the words, phrases and feelings you both describe are so very real. I was fortunate enough to experience CTCRM in 1984/85 and my experiences there made me the person I became. It is as you say "a state of mind", driven by what they make you and what they expect, 100%. Mud runs exhausting but fire hose dousing post was epic and always got that laugh, lol. 30ft ropes on the bottom field and scramble nets in the winter were something else. Post service left me with feelings similar to what you both describe, worthlessness, unfulfilled, angry with society, no direction etc etc etc, we could all go on. Anyway fellas, thanks for this wee journey, keep well and keep safe.
Recently applied to the marines and going through the process. Cant wait to start and would be a great honour to earn that green beret like these heroes
Your Dad Foxy was a good off and i don`t say that about many.. We did our first tour together, some would say he was placid but when a reaction was needed it was balls out. Always remember him with affection and still friends..
Joint Lucas I disagree. Obviously special forces are superior to RMC but “100%” better is too extreme, I want to know how much ‘better’ SF standard is compared to your average royal marine. They are elite commando units so obviously they’re going to be excellent soldiers, I’m wondering how much higher the skills and ability of the SAS is.
@@rhysnichols8608 i know the basic rmc fitness standards are being able to run in 10 min 30 seconds for 1.5mile then do it again with 5 minutes rest in 12 min 30 seconds, with the sas im not too sure but with the paras being 8 min 15 seconds for 1.2 mile im guessing it'll be lower than 7 min 30 seconds for the 1.2 for sas
Joint Lucas Your information is quite wrong here my friend. You’re referring to the PJFT (PRE JOINING fitness test) and the standards are less than 12:30 for the first run, then a ONE minute rest and then less that 10:30, all done on a 2% incline. This is NOT the physical standard of the Royals. It is the first physical test a potential trainee will undergo, before even going to PRMC. It is the single easiest test a candidate will undergo, and shouldn’t be used as a benchmark of their fitness.
When you accept you aren’t special and put your ego to one side, you can really start to work on your own well-being and move on with your life. work hard, fail, work hard, keep your head and and try and create a life worth living
Born 1982 - Paras 1998/2008 big change coming back to civi life... now at 37 cv reads like a short bible. Think I’ve tried and done everything 🤔from science degree to NvQ in engineering / joinery etc. Had my own businesses .... still looking for that special something lol always will do I think
Para? Any fool can fall out an aircraft! Joking apart, I know exactly what you mean. Returning to civvy street is a challenge, it always feels as if something's missing. It could be as basic as having people that you can genuinely trust with your life, maybe I'm still looking Take care mate, from a "cabbage head"
Totally relatable and nice to listen to the guys on their respective journeys. The main points in my opinion for any ex forces watching this should take away is you need a plan, preferably before you leave! Having struggled myself in the early years particularly around self worth and making the adjustment and fitting into the civilian/corporate world is to have patience. Thanks guys, enjoyed that... 🇬🇧
Great chat lads, two hoofing blokes. If any of you fins yourselves in Indonesia hit me up and we can go into the jungle or i'll get us to jump with the indo SF. take lads, stay ally.
I joined the British army when I was 20 years old. At sixteen I was already in a real man working job and at 18 doing shift work. The main reason I joined the army was my life was boring and I needed a challenge. I managed to pass basic training in 2004 but failed my phase 2 armourers course. They offered me a trade as a technical store man, I did it but it was boring, I was a technical storeman for 3 years and got promoted to lcpl. I was mainly in charge of the armoury which was ok but I just got bored of it and I knew I was never going to become a armourer or a proper tradesman. I got out of the army in 2009.
Yes, bad luck for being a dumb fuck, but good on you for sticking with it for a while. I agree with you, changing soldiers jizz riddled sheets in stores doesn't quite cut it
I was born in North London, but raised in the southern US. One of my uncles was SAS, and my grandfather was a war hero in 10th mountain Division during WW2 in Italy. I love both of my counties and I'd gladly fight for either, I just hope it's not necessary.
Great interview. No bullshit and just being honest. Good solid guys👍 Not had your military career but draw many similarities having been in a specialist skilled role producing vehicles for the military and emergency services. Life is very different these days and I now feel that my skills are no longer of much value.
Jason’s like me I want to be a marine for the same reasons I love the job I’m not academic and I enjoy the outside so I’ve gotta go for this job really in 2 years
![[Part 2] Former Royal Marine & Special Forces Veteran on Working Out, Mental Strength & PTSD](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1iWf1RvkC_s/mqdefault.jpg)
![[Part 2] Former Royal Marine & Special Forces Veteran on Working Out, Mental Strength & PTSD](/img/tr.png)
Two intelligent and modest men talking. A lot of lost teenagers would benefit from being mentored by these guys.
I misread that as 'murdered'...really different vibe :D
anyone that's lost regardless of age would benefit from this
@@highqwality How would you recommend fixing lost teenagers?
A lot of teenagers would benefit from mild head trauma too, but a decade of living cures being a teenager just fine.
I could only imagine the eye opening experience today’s youth would have listening and witnessing these kind of men.
The thought of gang violence and ✌🏼✌🏼beef, would seem like a game of bulldog.
Both are unbelievably humble for what they have achieved.
@@youssef5263 i guess you could say that
War does that to you
Passing the training alone is hard enough. Secondly, good soldiers dont do it for a thrill. Possibly the only way youd understand is to speak to soldiers. Or read some WW1 poetry. Siegfried Sassoon etc.
reading about British soldiers in the Korean War, this is the tradition. Some people say it has gone now, but I think it's still around, just in a different way.
@@youssef5263 war is war, and war means death
I joined at 16 in 1979, I agree with the point that at that age you knew no different, I was on around £30 a week it seemed like a good wage. The commando spirit has got me through a few issues in my civvy life such as a bout of legionaries disease that nearly did for me and two knee replacements in my 50s ( probably due to my active life style) I’m still active and run my own successful tree contracting business and still drag my arse and my two false knees to work each day. Respect to all serving Royals and those who have, its a special family.
Me too, 256 troop - served from 1979 to 1991.
Yeah, I joined at 16 in 79. Army apprentice college for two years, then 9 Para Sqn RE.
Me to joined 135 troop at 19 still get together every few years with lads from commachio coy best bunch of lads you will ever meet
I hope I can write my story here in a few years, much respect for you guys even tho I live in a other country, still respect.
chris taylor i was in 147 troop, went on to 42, ended my career at the Resource and initiative training centre at Raleigh
I left the military 8 years ago--still adjusting.
I’ve spoken to people that left the forces 20+ years ago and they are still adjusting, you’ll adjust eventually mate
I left the military 35 years ago, after 22 years, almost adjusted!
Good talk guys ex marine my self ,45 Cdo Falklands and NI ,Ireland wasn’t to bad ,the Falklands after the battle on two sisters,the guys
Found it hard to accept what we just live through, but now we look back and think thing’s aren’t so bad . I now run a garage
Car & motorbike restoration ,been doing it 22 years ( should get the hang of it any day soon ) 👍👍 life can certainly be up hill
scott ScottMechanics - good luck to you bonnie lad. I was working down south (Esso Fawley) as a young pipe fitter when the Falkland war kicked off. We were living in Pool Dorset and knocking about with young marines on a weekend for a “few” beers. They were like caged tigers waiting for the off. I just hope they made it back in one piece
Bri R thanks 👍👍🍻🇬🇧
Thank you for your service bud!
Surprised you referred to yourself as an ex marine, afterall OARMAARM
Lewis spot on
Feeling worthless on leaving the Corps was exactly my experience.
I thought it was just me.
I struggled so much with this very feeling, and still do sometimes, feel like my life peaked in my 20's and now life is just a play... feel totally lost sometimes.. dont know if I'll ever get round the feeling, I turn 40 in May and when I watch the videos of us Parachuting I sit and think "is that really me ," ... feels like another life ..
@@StuHNomadBiker have u tried the reserves
@@StuHNomadBiker Damn this really resonated with me, I'm 36 soon and feel as though I've been on some alternate life path I wasn't supposed to be on.
Jocko Willink talks about his life appearing to exist to him as a series of chunks of time, so for a chunk of time he was in school, then for a chunk of time he was a SEAL, etc. My advice to anyone who's left the military and is feeling disconnected and worthless - and I say this as someone who left the military over a decade ago and still has times when he feels disconnected and worthless - find something, anything, to make this chunk interesting. Try as many different things as you can and the moment you find one where you think, hey, this is pretty good, this is interesting, pursue it. I started riding motorcycles and learned how to work on cars and got better at two other languages and kind of accidentally fell arse-backwards into a job that I love and don't want to leave any time soon, but I only found those things because I tried a heap of things. Find something to make this chunk of time interesting, and when this chunk ends, as all chunks do, find something else to make the next chunk interesting.
I was just happy asf when I left haha. I felt nothing but thank fuck it's over. Relief is what people call it.
The simple fact that both of these gents are comfortable admitting that they were afraid at times is commendable. Really enjoyed this chit chat.
Being afraid doesn't make you less of a man it makes you more of one as you can show your feelings and not feel bad about it
@@XxWolfxWaRioRxX .... I agree !
thanks for been a good fan 💖 , hope to see your response soon 💝 can we talk privately
@@XxWolfxWaRioRxX Awesome comment might use that myself b😆
@@jasonfox1652 stop faking jason fox’s profile. Ur a fake account. Stop spreading fuking messages over his fake profile
Aldo is some man. He’s a machine. You can see why Ant Middleton and Jason use him as a cameraman/ knowledge/ back up.
✌🏻🏴🇬🇧
He didn’t climb Everest with Ant. A guy called Ed Wardle did, a Scottish TV producer, camera man and adventurer.
@@johnhanrahan6246 Yes I know. I actually thought I’d edited my comment. Oops. The beards and accents confused me. Ha 🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🏴
@@MrSmid888 haha, easy mistake! I was only 7 months late but never mind! Lol
@@johnhanrahan6246 I thought I’d fact checked it, think I’d read Ants book last year but I couldn’t remember the video I commented on hence it was still there!! Ha. I’ve edited it now. Don’t wanna be giving out misinformation 😂😂 Some man Aldo, you watched him do the 3 Peaks challenge in 24hrs? Brutal! And rode his motorbike to the climbs, that’s a lot of miles to stay switched on✌🏻
@@MrSmid888 yeah I have just finished two of his books. The fear bubble and first man in, both fantastic reads. The only reason I read them was because he started his career in the royal Engineers which was the same as me.
I haven’t to be fair! He’s a brilliant character so I’ll definitely have a look into it. Cool that he rides bikes too 😎
Foxy was always my fav on the SAS Tv show
Always seemed very humble
A shock felt after discharge is when you realise that you fell for the scam, what you thought was a career was actually a short term job, because the military is not a career, except for a very small percentage of those who enlist. An interesting and some times thrilling and dangerous job but still a job. After a long life you realise that the time in the military was just one of the jobs that you did to earn a living. For most who join the military it is a relatively short period of your life compared to your whole life, and yet it seems to leave the greatest impression on how you view the world, and, the most valued memories.
Underrated comment, thanks for your insight.
But you can do stuff afterwards right ? Vip protection, border force, police. I'm not from England but i guess a veteran, especially someone like these guys would have so many doors open to him.
@Dominus Providebit Yea, nothing compared to their actual training. Let's say they're simply done with operations time for something else in their country.
David Boson
I mean a lot of SOF guys make it their career, as well as many officers. There’s also enlisted years who go for 20+ years for the benefits.
I’m wanting to join the marines in a years time, is it a bad idea I don’t really no😭
I can relate to this so much after 3 tours of Iraq and 1 of afghan and struggling to settle back into normal life. Best 11 years of my life but I'm paying for it now
Respect to these two!
I'm retired US Army and still going through transition. It can be tough, but once you find a purpose as you said, it does get better.
Thank you for your service mate!
@Kieran Dillon what
Thank you for serving!
Thanks for your service mate. Love from the uk
Stumbled upon this yesterday and, as an ex-military guy (22yr career in the British Army) I can totally relate to the 'being lost' and feelings of 'worthlessness' and 'anger' experienced by these fellas. I (eventually) learned to accept my life and 'take charge' of it. Finding value in helping others (teaching/ instructing) and accepting that everyone, military or not, has their own (often more difficult) story and their own daily struggles. Thanks for being so open! This will help many people; not just ex-military pers and not just blokes. Subscribed ;-)
This conversation could do with being three times as long. Phenomenonal insights and reflections.
I went civilian in 2011 and I'm still struggling. I guess warriors can't retire; salutations from 2nd Parachute Regiment of the French Foreign Legion/Pathfinder Company...
Thank you for your service. FFL are truly badass.
I've just sent this to 3 of my family that are in the royal marines. Thank you
Didn't know Frank Lampard was Special Forces
Cracked up 🤣🤣
hes not
@AyeNaeBotherMate A 😂
@@paulmcdonough1093 Is that Paul from CAP?
He look like Tony from hollyoaks 🤣🤣
I had two inlaws in the Royal Marines and both agreed that they found it hard to be civilians. They put it like this. When they were serving, they didn't need to worry about food, housing, medical needs, smy of these things. They both agreed that it is harder being a civilian ... I found that interesting.
I think it depends on who you are as a person. I for one found military life harder. I was 17 when I joined and served two years in the infantry.
I was probably a bit mentally weak but I was motivated and didnt want to be a bitch lol. That sums my experience up.
@@brandonhughes645 I thought the minimum was 3 years no?
Lewis The minimum is 4 years. You can put in your notice to leave on your 3rd year and then you can leave on your 4th year.
@@jeddy_bravo Nah mate. The minimum service time for British Armed forces is 4 years. Unless you get discharged for medical or other reasons.
@@brandonhughes645 did you fail a CDT or get MD ?
Big fan of Aldo Kane. I read the magazine article they did with him too and it was great
The bit about struggling after leaving the forces strikes a chord with me. I joined up at 16 and left at 23 and the element of knowing I was no longer being ‘looked after’ was really difficult and I regretted leaving. I’m not quite sure how long it took to accept that situation, but it was definitely years rather than months. Really enjoying this video; two top blokes.
Left the Army in 2016 after nearly 9 years, I can relate to all these feelings. The system breaks you down then builds you up. Then civvie street smashes you in the face twice as hard. You gotta be the captain of your own ship 👍🏼 thanks lads, great watch.
Hello thanks for the comments 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️
Thank you to whoever came up with this idea.
Absolute heroes and role models these 2, I think the youth of today should be shown interviews and videos of the likes of these 2 blokes as motivation
Really happy to observe a genuine conversation that honours the sensitive sides that never get the light of day
Im currently in my paras application, i was supposed to have my prac on the 4th may but due to the recent virus its being delayed, these type of guys inspire me to better myself, i can't wait to be in the army.
I'll be doing the same next year
Good luck brother 🙏
@@bone3013 thanks man, good luck to you too.
I am a rejoiner, my selection on the 7th April in Edinburgh has just been cancelled, hopefully get that and prac done asap and get back to ITC for the 28weeks of good news
You will be fighting covid 19
@@fireblade8905 : We all are mate.
I want to join the Navy next year. I have worked with lads from the RM and they are hard as nails. These two are an inspiration
This is excellent. Very interesting topic. Both are great representatives for the UK military.
Its nice to know that guys like these are watching over us.. x
Love this. Real humble truth from two badass guys. I've just applied to the Royal Marines Reserve so I can maintain my job on civvy street. Been wanting to join the forces for years, so looking forward to the challenge!
23:30 is the first and best advice I give to anyone who is leaving the military. You can't run around hating civi's because of the way they live their lives. We have to fit in with them because we're in their world now. It took me a long time to figure that out after leaving but once you're at that point, life gets so much better.
Many Vets describe their life after leaving the Corps is another war after a war. PTSD, depression, relationship problem......For those who manage to return home safe, their sacrifice is beyond their service time, it is their whole life because many of them continue to struggle with mental health problem, unable to adjust, etc.
This is a very heartfelt, humble conversation from two big men. Thank you for your service and wish you the very best! From Canada.
love this!! so interesting and insightful - we all have a lot to learn from guys like these
HollyW yes, don’t bother with the Army. They’ll kick you out and forget about you without a second thought. The suicide rate amongst veterans is a national scandal
@@wernesgruder1 I'm ex army. Every man and women I served with are family to me. I've never thought that I've been forgotten. Help is there if you want it. Remember it's very hard to talk for some people, and that's the problem. The first step is to admit you have a problem. People aren't mind readers. I've been homeless living on the streets of London and Liverpool for about 3 years. I've been suicidal to the point I've slit my wrists and stood on a bridge. I've never blamed the military for how I feel. I knew what I was signing up for, I knew that I would probably end up in a fire fight and I may be killed or wounded. There's more help nowadays for veterans than ever before. My old man never had any help in the 70s and 80s and he still suffers to this day. It's a shame that any vet has to suffer but that's life. If you were to ask any of them though, 99% wouldn't blame the military
My old dad joined up in 1944, then spent his whole career in the services, leaving 7 years to do civvy street before officially retiring. It failed, he didn't respect that people did things differently, thought things differently while he still tried to do things the service way. His new workmates wouldn't have it. Result, depression.
Another guy I met with similar background did it like this. He cleared his desk, ditched the uniform, it was over, no looking back, every day only forward. He did ok.
My father too spent his life in the military and could not get on in civilian life. Everything was black or white. There was a right way to do something and a wrong way. He couldn't adjust to the shortcomings of civilians or acknowledge his own. Unfortunately he instilled much of that mindset in me with both good and negative consequences.
When real vets talking about their war experience and their feeling during and after, there is always this taste of sadness..
thanks for been a good fan 💖 , hope to see your response soon 💝 can we talk privately
Candid and intelligent. Very easy to listen to.
amazing how many civilian lessons there are to be had within this conversation
Both very humble blokes, truly incredible to think what they both have achieved. Credit to you men
Two absolute legends and heroes !!!
After college im joining the marines and a close family friend is an ex marine and his stories are just incredible and he is one of the best men I have ever met and I want to be like that and to be in this elite unit I would truly give anything
Massive respect to both of these dudes.humble,strong and dependable.
Can’t wait to join the Royal Marines 🇬🇧🇬🇧💪🏼💪🏼
Worth bearing in mind these two are great friends and it was thanks to Aldo that Foxy got the job on SAS Who Dares Wins.
Big adjustment in life for the military and they’ve a lot in common with sportsmen. Careers are finished in late 30s ,early 40s when most of us have jobs we can crack on in until retirement. These guys have to re-invent themselves but not only that they probably know there not gonna get the excitement they once had. Got perspective from both of these.
I could watch these guys for hours, superb. Thank you.
12.50 a week I got as a Nod that was spent on extra kit and extra food......1974 75 tho...........17p a pint.
£5 a pint is common now aha
@@bendobbing9239 There was a scrumpy house at the bottom of Union Street cider was 14p a pint and I would get leaping for a quid. There would be an aha moment as I woke up doing the back stroke in my swamped pit. Happy days.
Just remembered it was called the United Services and was frequented by tramps dossers and bootnecks....at the weekend toff tottie would rove around looking for a bit of ruff....crackin laff. One of the best runs I had in there was suddenly looking down and I was getting a blow job which in my drunken haze thought fair do....then noticed the barmaid going apoplectic......work hard play hard....
very good one. It felt I actually knew these guys for the entire clip. Once it finished I wished actually did.
thanks for been a good fan 💖 , hope to see your response soon 💝 can we talk privately
916 troop...Long ago and far away, but it still influences me.
I used to be in the parachute regiment before i joined the RAF and the royal marines are the best of the best always enjoyed being along
side them
Thank you for your service, if you don't mind could you tell me was it harder (training wise) in the paras or the royal marines?
@@jointlucas8187 id say paras but thats only because i experienced it ,do you know P company,its bloody hard aha but the royal marine test is hard to they focus more on the combat side of things id say.but this is only from what ive heard and seen.
@DON KING i served 4 years and 2 tours of Afghanistan and i left just after British troops were pulled out of Afghan by that time i done what i wanted to do and a lot lads moved on at that time too,being a pilot was something id always wanted to do so being able to stay with the British armed forces but be a pilot at the same time seemed great better than being sat around in room with 5 others lads or freezing cold in a tent on exercise there was no more fear or excitement to be deployed to a warzone,if i stayed i probably would of been deployed to the falklands and that didnt sound great to be honest so i left people seemed to think if other leave its becuase they hated it or got 'bored' which isn't true i loved it sounds stupid bullets flying past my head but it was great made new mates learnt new things even though i was trained to kill i was shit scared of getting shot,on one patrol in Helmand i got shot in lower arm only 1 round but it fucking hurt, i thought a 3rd tour was pushing my luck a bit to haha so joined the RAF in mid 2016
To grounded men, totally respect their achievements. It's nice to be able to relate to what they discuss
When in harm's way my biggest fear was that I might let down my mates and those that I was responsible for. The enemy , those trying to kill me, didn't worry me at all. I knew that me and the lads would overcome. Afterwards the awfulness of what we had experienced filled our minds accompanied by a large measure of guilt at causing so many women to live through the pain of losing their husband, son, or good friend and the support from them that they would have expected and received.
A sobering and eye opening comment there. Just goes to show there’s more to a soldier than a rifle and a trigger finger.
Left the KOSB in 2004, was pretty satisfied on civvie street until recent years where I've got that itch and miss block life
Aldo is definitely the kind of guy you would choose to be with . if you ever found yourself in a life and death survival situation
I worked on the redesign / rebuild of the HMRTC at Lympstone about 12 years ago - made me chuckle when Aldo referenced Lympstone! Great content chaps thank you and all the best :)
JA040283 redesign? What’s changed?
Former Bootneck, joined at 16, top life, set me up for the rest of my life, miss the buzz every day. Found it in other aspects of civvie life . Carry on
Humble and genuine....great to watch! 👏
I really respect these guys - just what I needed to hear
It’s not until you listen to these guys, you realise so many different aspects of what they have been through. Feeling worthless after what must feel like giving their life for everyone is hideous. Trying to learn what you want in life and making it happen. Being part of something so strong and then feel like you are standing on the outside. Relearning your life under your own direction and not the military must feel so alien. Respect to all of you.
thanks for been a good fan 💖 , hope to see your response soon 💝 can we talk privately
I could listen to stories of most of the guys that have commented on here about experiences past and present.. massive respect to our boys that protect our country ❤
Great to hear them talk openly as mates/brothers and share what they have been through in the Forces. Cheers lads!
Legends!
Fucking A mate! fucking LEGENDS!
PER MARE PER TERRAM!!! Thank you Oppos for your service!
Aldo hit the nail on the head when he said you have no sense of worth when you first get out. I was in for a lot less time and that is the thing I struggled with most when transitioning from the army to a 'normal' life. I think it is often an overlooked part of leaving because it isn't really associated with poor mental health but I can see how if you don't have a support system it can develop into a problem. Could be something you get over quickly but it could also be the thing that tips someone over the edge, especially if that person has problems with their mental health. Also like he says shortly after, you need to take charge and change will happen. I hope you all find that next thing!
For someone who's looking to join the marines, this talk has been a very helpful more truthful view of what it would potentially be like.
Don't do it...think very carefully if you're really doing it because it just sounds cool and you want people to think you're tough. It's really not worth it.
Best think to do is get a normal job and then join the reserves (ideally in the Royal Engineers regiment where you can either learn a trade or become an officer for the management/leadership training). You'll go through the same basic training and can go for the AACC (commando course) along with loads of other opportunities...but if you decide you don't like it you can quit without notice and you'll not have any issues re-assimilating into civvie street.
Best of both worlds...almost every ex soldier will say the same thing.
@@kenshindoman9757 I appreciate your insight, some food for thought there
@@kenshindoman9757 Royal Marines is where it’s at mate, that’s the dream
I visited CTCRM as a boy and whilst I enjoyed all the kit, the Tarzan course etc it was the character of the Marines themselves that impressed, and always does. Hearing it here with Jason and Aldo it continues...
That must’ve felt bit odd for you both to do as you know each other well but please dont underestimate the number people that that will help. And not just ex military, so many thanks for committing your time to do that.
Proper mutual respect between the two of them.
Respect to both of you guys, never give up, never quit, stays with you and it transmits to your kids also...
So down to earth and as already stated by others, really humble. Both really interesting guys and you could envisage listening to them Over a beer and enjoy every moment of it.
Great interview guys! I did my 9 years and didn’t want to stay in so was very glad to be accepted into the Police in Devon.
craig your a inspiration !! you should hold ur head high 23 years under your belt and treated like u were ! A work with homeless here in glasgow and the amount of ex militry men on the streets here is disgraceful ! I would be willing to sit down with yourself and see if there is any support we can arrange to change this naritive for our troops !! your a star mate pure hero xxxx
Utter admiration an respect ! Thank you ! 👍
One of the best openly honest discussions I have had the pleasure to watch. Taught me a few life lessons. Well worth a watch 👌
Very enjoyable vlog guys, thanks for that. I trod a similar path in so many ways and so many of the words, phrases and feelings you both describe are so very real. I was fortunate enough to experience CTCRM in 1984/85 and my experiences there made me the person I became. It is as you say "a state of mind", driven by what they make you and what they expect, 100%. Mud runs exhausting but fire hose dousing post was epic and always got that laugh, lol. 30ft ropes on the bottom field and scramble nets in the winter were something else. Post service left me with feelings similar to what you both describe, worthlessness, unfulfilled, angry with society, no direction etc etc etc, we could all go on. Anyway fellas, thanks for this wee journey, keep well and keep safe.
Jason's books are unbelievable. Highly recommended.
utmost respect
I give my best two these gentlemen who are braver than I ever will be they make me proud to be British
Cracking interview men.
Recently applied to the marines and going through the process. Cant wait to start and would be a great honour to earn that green beret like these heroes
Green Beret is army??
Pablo Orozco the green beret is Royal Marines
@@pabloorozco300 Green Beret is ROYAL MARINES MATE!!! This is not Yankeeland... these boys KNOW how to fight
@@EscanV ThIs Is NoT yAnKeE lAnD
@@pabloorozco300 well royal marines have a green beret and the paras have red
Could listen to these two all day
Jason Fox Luton lad, enjoyed his narcos series
The only Brit in Luton
The Saint haha true
I'm from Luton but I don't live there f that lol
Was good show that
@@thesaint8400 lol sad but true
Your Dad Foxy was a good off and i don`t say that about many.. We did our first tour together, some would say he was placid but when a reaction was needed it was balls out. Always remember him with affection and still friends..
thank you for sharing guys!! massive respect
I would love to see how big (or small) the skill gap is between them.
Royal marines and paras are on similar levels, sas are 100% better than both...
Joint Lucas
I disagree. Obviously special forces are superior to RMC but “100%” better is too extreme, I want to know how much ‘better’ SF standard is compared to your average royal marine. They are elite commando units so obviously they’re going to be excellent soldiers, I’m wondering how much higher the skills and ability of the SAS is.
@@rhysnichols8608 i know the basic rmc fitness standards are being able to run in 10 min 30 seconds for 1.5mile then do it again with 5 minutes rest in 12 min 30 seconds, with the sas im not too sure but with the paras being 8 min 15 seconds for 1.2 mile im guessing it'll be lower than 7 min 30 seconds for the 1.2 for sas
Joint Lucas Your information is quite wrong here my friend. You’re referring to the PJFT (PRE JOINING fitness test) and the standards are less than 12:30 for the first run, then a ONE minute rest and then less that 10:30, all done on a 2% incline. This is NOT the physical standard of the Royals. It is the first physical test a potential trainee will undergo, before even going to PRMC. It is the single easiest test a candidate will undergo, and shouldn’t be used as a benchmark of their fitness.
@@extremepower7168 ah yeah thanks for correcting me, i did mean that they are the basic tests before going through prmc
When you accept you aren’t special and put your ego to one side, you can really start to work on your own well-being and move on with your life. work hard, fail, work hard, keep your head and and try and create a life worth living
Hello from Ireland..this is a great conversation and I really enjoyed it, some good stuff in there.
Could listen to this all day.podcast?
Foxy does. "Jason fox wild tales"
Born 1982 - Paras 1998/2008 big change coming back to civi life... now at 37 cv reads like a short bible.
Think I’ve tried and done everything 🤔from science degree to NvQ in engineering / joinery etc. Had my own businesses .... still looking for that special something lol always will do I think
Para? Any fool can fall out an aircraft! Joking apart, I know exactly what you mean. Returning to civvy street is a challenge, it always feels as if something's missing. It could be as basic as having people that you can genuinely trust with your life, maybe I'm still looking
Take care mate, from a "cabbage head"
Totally relatable and nice to listen to the guys on their respective journeys. The main points in my opinion for any ex forces watching this should take away is you need a plan, preferably before you leave! Having struggled myself in the early years particularly around self worth and making the adjustment and fitting into the civilian/corporate world is to have patience. Thanks guys, enjoyed that... 🇬🇧
Great chat lads, two hoofing blokes. If any of you fins yourselves in Indonesia hit me up and we can go into the jungle or i'll get us to jump with the indo SF. take lads, stay ally.
👍
I joined the British army when I was 20 years old. At sixteen I was already in a real man working job and at 18 doing shift work. The main reason I joined the army was my life was boring and I needed a challenge. I managed to pass basic training in 2004 but failed my phase 2 armourers course. They offered me a trade as a technical store man, I did it but it was boring, I was a technical storeman for 3 years and got promoted to lcpl. I was mainly in charge of the armoury which was ok but I just got bored of it and I knew I was never going to become a armourer or a proper tradesman. I got out of the army in 2009.
Yes, bad luck for being a dumb fuck, but good on you for sticking with it for a while. I agree with you, changing soldiers jizz riddled sheets in stores doesn't quite cut it
Tremendous guys.. many people have the commando spirit but don’t know it and I hope we can summon it for the challenges we face in the modern world
Really good chat boys, thanks a lot for the insight ❤️❤️nothing but respect to you
I was born in North London, but raised in the southern US. One of my uncles was SAS, and my grandfather was a war hero in 10th mountain Division during WW2 in Italy. I love both of my counties and I'd gladly fight for either, I just hope it's not necessary.
I was also 16, in '91 621trp "beer monsters"
Can relate to what they say when I left the forces spot on
... Because not all heroes wear capes! .. #StrongNotSilent
Not that many do really. Plus they're out of fashion. Were they ever in fashion?
Great interview. No bullshit and just being honest. Good solid guys👍 Not had your military career but draw many similarities having been in a specialist skilled role producing vehicles for the military and emergency services. Life is very different these days and I now feel that my skills are no longer of much value.
Fellas, bloody outstanding.
Jason’s like me I want to be a marine for the same reasons I love the job I’m not academic and I enjoy the outside so I’ve gotta go for this job really in 2 years
Go for it lad