Anyone in the TA?

[miracleboy]

Just interested in your thoughts and experiences - and the recruitment process etc.

Have been interested in a while in the opportunity - was in the cadets for 6 years so am aware of the non regular setup, drill nights etc.

My local unit is 3rd Bn PWRR (Princess of Wale's Royal Regiment), being from Kent. As it's an infantry unit there is a possibility of operational deployment in the future (1st Bn have recently been in Iraq).

I am aware of the deployment issue - it's usually volunteers for infantry deployment, but certain specialists have no choice depending on what's needed. My father in law is a combat medic in the TA and as there was a shortage he had to go on a 6 month tour to Iraq in 2005, he was based in Umm Qasr near Basra.

Also if anyone is in at the moment what are the specialisation opportunities? I have a career in enterprise level computing and networking so signals/communications might be an avenue.

Just interested in any current or past TA (or regs's) experiences.

Thanks

EDIT -> sorry I only just realised after posting that the search function was up again.

 

[Hugogo]

I am not TA as such. Well i guess i am but I am Category B being a student. (meaning i am un-deployable).

However I know many people who are in the TA some of whom have just been deployed to Iraq last week. Deployment is a major concern and consideration for anyone joining a TA unit. I recommend going to visit the units you consider, which they will be more than willing to do.

How old are you? Infantry work is hard physical work (mixed with lots of sitting around being bored apparently ). So i would look at recruitment age limits for infantry.

The Royal Signals are the communication specialists. Choosing the right unit is important you've got to work with them in some high stress situations so you need to fit into their ethos etc.

Contact your local careers advisor about what units are close to home. Also if you have the educational background and aptitude to do so look into Officer selection.