Regular Supply Chain Operative Junior Soldier (JS) / Private / NATO STANAG 2116 OR-2 @ British Army

I attested, which meant that I was expected to serve at least 28 days. I wanted to complete all that I could before I wouldn’t be able to leave (without violating my contract), so that I would be able to make an informed decision.

As part of CMS(R), I completed my Skill At Arms certification for Military Weapons Handling. This involved demonstrating competence at maintenance, and consistent sub-60 mm group size at 200 m, on a range.

Additionally, I was evaluated on how to operate under CS (riot) gas exposure, as part of my chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear decontamination drills.

I also studied combat first aid, and I practised multiple week-long woodland position assault and defence courses, during which I directed stretcher barers for a real casualty in a combat-simulation environment, at night. To enable this, I was certified to prevent and treat heat illness and cold injury.

Indeed, it was incredibly informative, and I didn’t expect to gain as many qualifications as I did (including English and Mathematics at Level 2, which mattered to me back then). However, the state of my accomodation, equipment, and the discipline of my platoon, was not as I had hoped. This, compounded with not having been able to join in my preferred role of Cyber Engineer, caused me to choose to DAOR.

I left with the intent to re-enlist when I had achieved my English qualification. I eventually did, but chose the RAF instead, where I was accepted as a Cyberspace Communications Specialist.

This provided NSV clearance, from UKSV.