Armed Forces

russell664

russell664

russell664

Soldato
Joined
19 Nov 2011
Posts
4,867
Hi all,

I'm thinking about joining the armed forces namely the Navy.

I am currently getting my fitness level up before submitting my application. I have been wishing to join for a while now, I don't mind change, but I don't like uncertainty which in this instance isn't healthy in itself. I'm wondering if anyone on the forums has been, or currently serving in the Armed forces.

I'm looking to find out a few things really:

  • Training - I know that this is specific to your role. What is basic training like?
  • What things should I be prepared for?
  • Interviews, I know they are formal, but what information/research is needed generally?
  • If your currently serving, what are the best/worst things about it?

I am just trying to gather as much information as I can really before delving in to it all!

Many thanks in advance. :)
 
Basic training can be hard. They push you, not just physically but stuff like 4-5 hours sleep and early calls without warning etc. They're not trying to break you as such, just get you prepared for a certain amount of randomness and that you may need to push your limits.

As for the interview, I'd think enthusiasm and a 'can do' attitude would work wonders.
 
What is basic training like?

That is a really broad question but I'll give you the gist of things. Expect to have no free time for at least the first 7 weeks, after 7 weeks, if your squadron/troop/w.e is doing well you might get a weekend here and there. Say goodbye to your private & social life, that is now on hold. Get used to working your arse off from 5/6/7 until 10/11/12. It's a test of mental and physical endurance, if you want to make your life easier make sure you're damned fit before you start, that way you've won 50% of the battle. You'll still struggle though ;).

What things should I be prepared for?

As above, sleep deprivation. Lack of private time. Lack of Freedom. Aches and pains. Loud angry people. Cold/heat. **** food. IRONING. POLISHING. CLEANING. When you think it's clean enough let me tell you it bloody well isn't :D.

Interviews, I know they are formal, but what information/research is needed generally?

Same as any job really. Just be keen, show them how enthusiastic you are, this isn't just some job, this is a complete lifestyle change, you need to know that.

If your currently serving, what are the best/worst things about it?

I'm not currently serving but I've just served 5 years with the Royal Engineers - for me and I think for nearly everyone the best thing by far is the camaraderie. The job I'm doing now (IT), there's none really, not in comparison. The worst thing for me, well there's a lot of ups and downs to every job but I suppose I left for a number of reasons. I decided I'd been there done that and wanted another, more lucrative career outside the army with all the freedoms and perks it brings.
 
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