British Army

An Introduction

Produced by:
Public Relations Army. Send any comments or feedback to SO2 Plans Coord, Directorate Media
and Communication, Level1, Zone A, Desk 31, Ministry of Defence, Main Building, Whitehall,
London, SW1A 2HB
This publication is available as a PDF download on www.army.mod.uk
Images courtesy of the Defence Image Database. Crown Copyright/MOD2010
AC 71915

1 www.army.mod.uk 2
 01 Contents.

02 Background and structure.

02 Striving for success.
04 A mix of capabilities and a robust structure.
06 Territorial Army.

08 Across the globe.

08 Acting on the nation’s behalf.
10 Afghanistan. In pursuit of security and stabilisation.
12 Transition. Afghans taking responsibility.
14 Iraq. A nation reborn.

16 Ensuring future success.

16 Forward-thinking. Future success.
18 Well-prepared and with the right kit.
20 World-class medical care.
22 Protecting our environment.

24 Training and personal development.

24 Training in the field and classroom.
26 Educational and personal development.
28 Developing fighting fitness.

The British Army.

30 Extreme training, real adventures.
32 Army sporting life.

The British Army exists to defend the nation and serve

its interests. Professional, dynamic, and forward-looking, 34 At home and in the community.
it is underpinned by distinct values and standards. 34 A firm base at home and in the community.
The British Army offers a great career to motivated young 36 The Army and extended family.
38 Reserves and Cadets.
men and women, with welfare, training and development of 40 Past and present.
itss people its highest priorities after success on operations. 42 On parade.

1 Contents | 01 1
Striving The Army ethos
The Army’s ethos is the spirit that inspires soldiers to fight.

for success.
It derives from, and depends upon, the high degrees of
commitment, self-sacrifice and mutual trust which,
together, are essential for the maintenance of morale.

Core values
The British Army is underpinned by the quality of its Respect for others

people who abide by distinct values and standards.

Treating others with decency and respect at all times.

Soldiers from the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards parade

Selfless commitment
at the Ceremony of the Keys at Edinburgh Castle. Always putting the team and the mission before our own
needs and trusting each other totally - even with our lives,
if necessary.

Courage
Photograph: Soldiers reorganise themselves during
Facing up to danger and doing what is right. This means
a brief pause on Operation PANCHAI PALANG in southern Afghanistan.
having moral courage as well as physical courage.

Discipline
All teams need discipline to ensure that orders are carried
out and so that everyone knows they can fully rely upon
their team-mates.

Integrity
Being honest and true, to earn the respect of our comrades.

Loyalty
Staying faithful to our comrades and to our duty.

Equality and diversity

Commitment to equality and diversity in the Army is vital to our
operational effectiveness. It balances the rights of the individual
with the needs of the Army, and therefore, the team. It values
the inherent qualities in every individual, respects their differences
and enables them to make the selfless commitment that the
Army demands in the knowledge that they will be treated fairly.
Bullying, harassment and discrimination on any grounds

The
e Military Covenant would undermine the trust that builds team cohesion and
have a negative effect on team morale.
• The Military Coven
en
nan
a t iss tthehe
h e mutua al ob
o liliga
g tition
ga o b
on betw
ween
The Army is fully committed to equality of opportunity and
the nation, th
he Ar
Army and
Army d eac
ach indi
inndi
d vi
v du
dualal ssoldi
dier
er.
welcomes men and women whatever their colour, race, religion,
It is an unbreak
ak
kab
a le comomm moo
onn bo
bondnd of id
ide entitty,
belief, gender, sexual orientation or marital status. We are
loyalty and responnsi
sibi
bililitty
ty tha
th
haat ha
as su
sustai
ain
ai ned
ne
working hard to make this a reality, not just a policy, by improving
the Armyy througho out itss hiist
ou s oryy.
y.
our openness and transparency. All high-level policies are now
• Solddie
i rs wilwilll be callle ed upupon o to ma ma ake ke
e per
perso
ersonanall assessed against their equality and diversity impact, proving the
sa
acr
crifi
ificces
es - inc cludidin
ng tth
ng he ultltim
he mat ate
e sa sacrrifi
ifice - in the e Army’s commitment to this issue.
serv
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n. IIn
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Natition
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2 | Background and structure

02 Background and structure | 033
A mix of capabilities Roles
The British Army is organised to undertake operations that

and a robust structure.

fall into two broad categories: standing tasks (e.g. garrisons
in Cyprus, the Falkland Islands and ceremonial duties);
and contingent operations. Contingent operations are those
that occur in response to an international crisis. They range
from the evacuation of British nationals from a war zone or
natural disaster area, through limited intervention in a conflict,

The Army’s structure consists of a flexible, deployable force,
a robust command and control organisation, and a firm
base that provides a wide range of support to the
deployable force.
The Apache can operate in all weathers, day or night,
and can detect, classify and prioritise up to 256 potential
targets simultaneously.
to large-scale military action. Military units are also made
available to support the civil authorities in the UK, if required.
100,000 full-time professionals
The British Army comprises more than 100,000 full-time
professional officers and soldiers in the Regular Army,
supported by a further 40,000 part-time paid volunteer
reservists of the Territorial Army (TA).

Photograph: An AS90 artillery piece supporting British infantry in Basra, Iraq, in 2003.
Structure of the British Army
To meet its varied tasks, the Army requires forces capable
of conducting rapid intervention or expeditionary operations,
possibly at great distance from their bases for extended periods.
It must also be ready to contribute to the defence and resilience
of the UK. These tasks require a broad mix of military capabilities,
but the key capabilities are those required to conduct major
combat and stabilisation operations.
The organisations within the Army are divided into three types:
Combat units. These units spearhead the Army’s military
capability. They include the Infantry, the Royal Armoured Corps
and the Army Air Corps.
Combat Support units. These units provide support to the
combat units in the combat zone. They include the Royal Artillery,
the Royal Engineers, the Royal Signals and the Intelligence Corps.
Combat Service Support units. These units provide essential
support services both in combat and in peacetime. They include
the Adjutant-General’s Corps, the Army Medical Services,
the Royal Logistics Corps and the Royal Electrical and
Mechanical Engineers.
The command structure of the Army is hierarchical. It has two
deployable divisions, each of which is responsible for a number
of brigades. Divisions and brigades are referred to as ‘formations’.
Brigades consist of several ‘units’, which are regiment or
battalion-sized, and which consist of a number of sub-units.
Sub-units are generally about 100 personnel strong.

4 | Background and structure

04 Background and structure | 055
Territorial Army. What is the Territorial Army?
The Territorial Army (TA) is the Army’s main reserve force and
is the largest of all the reserve forces. TA soldiers train in their
spare time. They also attend an annual camp, usually for

The Territorial Army is Britain’s principal two weeks.

The TA plays a vital role, providing a pool of highly trained
Army reserve force. The TA provides support to personnel ready to deploy in support of their Regular colleagues

the Regular Army at home and overseas, as well
as providing a link with the community.
Photograph: Territorial Army (TA) medics from 212 Field Hospital receive a casualty
from a Medical Evacuation Response Team (MERT) delivered by Chinook helicopter
to Camp Bastion, Afghanistan. The unit is based in Sheffield in the UK
and is staffed entirely by volunteers.
SKY News producer Lorna Ward was deployed to Iraq as the
commander of a Combat Camera Team, providing broadcast
and photographic output of the Army’s activities in Iraq.
The former Regular Army officer now serves in the TA’s Media
Operations Group (Volunteers).
on exercises and operations overseas. It currently provides
around 1,200 personnel each year on operations.
Why people join
People join the TA for a variety of reasons – for new challenges,
excitement, to get fit, make new friends, learn new skills or give
something back to society. The pay off is usually all those things
and more – TA soldiers not only become fitter, they often acquire
skills that they can take back into their civilian jobs.
And there is more than just military service and training.
TA members enjoy a full and rewarding social life. People they
meet in the TA often become more than colleagues. They become
friends for life. Add to that the sport, adventurous training activities
and the chance to travel overseas, life in the TA can be a very
rewarding one.

TA training
Most TA soldiers train at a TA centre close to where they live.
They may belong to a ‘regional’ unit, which will cover a particular
area of the country, or a ‘national’ unit, which may have bases
across a large area of the UK. The TA has the same types and
range of units as the Regular Army, including infantry, artillery,
signals and medical units, which are regional, while others,
such as logistics and transport, intelligence and catering,
are national units.
Training is carefully structured, beginning with basic military skills
and moving on to training that is specific to the role. Some TA
soldiers join units where they can offer their existing specialist
skills to the Army. For those with leadership potential, the TA runs
its own officer training programme.

All walks of life

The TA offers the best of both worlds to people who find the
idea of Army life appealing, but who are unable to make a
full-time commitment.

Terrritorials in TA members come from almost every social, occupational and

cultural background imaginable. What they share is a keenness
the 21st ce entury to develop new skills, meet new people and achieve goals
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6
06 | Background and structure Background and structure | 077
Acting on the
nation’s behalf.
Elements of the British Army
are located worldwide.
Germany
errm
ma
any
The
he Britis
British
sh A
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r has its
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The United Kingdom
m based in GeGermany.
ermany. It has
The British Army has been there since
s the end
the majority of its forces of WWII.
based at home in the UK.
It provides units for public
duties and support to Her
Majesty’s Government in Afghanistan
Canada
times of crisis. The Army has been fifighting
ghting
Canada is home to British
in Afghanistan since 2001
2
Army Training Unitt SSuffi
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eld
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as part of the NATO-
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(BATUS). It is equal in siz
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International Security
to all the Army’s training
ing g
Assistance Force (ISA
(ISAF).
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areas in the UK and E Europe
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put together. Gibraltar Cyprus
s
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Across
Acros the globe
The
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British
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sh Army
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my has
h personnel
nel
el
operating in the countries below. (Locations as at June 2010)

The United Kingdom Cyprus Ghana South Africa

Afghanistan Nepal Sierra Leone Singapore
Iraq Germany Bermuda Estonia
Falkland Islands
Canada Kenya Saudi Arabia Czech Republic
Since the Falkland Islands
Conflict in 1982, the British
Belize Sudan United Arab Emirates Bosnia
Army has kept a powerful Jamaica Democratic Republic Oman British Indian Ocean
garrison on the islands to deter Falkland Islands of Congo Malaysia Territories
the threat of future invasion. Gibraltar Nigeria Brunei

8 | Across the globe

8 Across the globe | 9 9
Afghanistan. Why we are in Afghanistan
We are in Afghanistan to keep Britain safe by preventing

In pursuit of security
Al Qaeda from using the country as a secure base from which to
threaten us. Taliban-run Afghanistan provided a safe haven from
which Al Qaeda planned, trained for and directed major terrorist
attacks across the world, including the atrocities of 11 September

and stabilisation.
2001 in which some 3,000 people were killed.
Helping Afghanistan fight violent extremists in their own country
helps ensure a safer Britain.
We are in Afghanistan as part of a UN-mandated, NATO-led mission.
The international community is united in backing the mission,

Britain’s own security is at risk if Afghanistan is allowed A Ridgeback Armoured Fighting Vehicle leads a column along a
levee at the Shamalan Canal in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
with many countries contributing troops.

to become a safe haven for terrorists.

Restructuring the Army
for operations
Photograph: Soldiers pause during a patrol in Afghanistan. The British Army’s Operation ENTIRETY describes the range of
measures that have been, or are being, put in place to ensure that
the Army is capable of sustaining operations in Afghanistan.
The measures, which are short term and reversible, entail re-roling
and/or re-equipping some units, restructuring some organisations
and adopting new approaches to training.

Particular emphasis has been put on:

• Improving the Army’s capabilities to counter
Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
• Improving the speed with which the Army learns lessons
from operations.
• Transforming pre-deployment training to make it as relevant
as possible to operations.
• Improving the Army’s cultural awareness.
• Looking after our soldiers after they return from operations.

Our objective
e
Succ
cess in Afghanistan is the Ar
A my
my’ss ma
aiin efffo
fort
rtt
a d is b
an based
e on::
• Afghan
an Securitty Forc
rces
es capable
le o
off ke
k ep
epin
ing
ing the
Taliba
an fr
f om
m rreg
e aining
g control.
A soldier shakes the hand of a young boy in Sangin, while out on patrol.
• Creded
dible gover errnan nc
n e at natio
onaal an
nd lo
loca
ca
al le
levvel
British soldiers are working hard to protect the population.
t givve th
to the
e AfA gh han
an p
peo
e pl
ple
e co
confi
nfiden
e ce in th
thei
eir
Soldiers
ers
d mo
de from
m ocr 1stic
c at i Battalion
atic ally
al lyy ele
lec Thegov
cted Royal
o ernmWelsh
men t.(Royal Welch Fusiliers
ent.
23rd Foot) assist in the training and mentoring of Afghan National
• Econ
on
nomic devvel
e opme
m nt that givvesves
Army
myy in Preparation for Operation Moshtar
Moshtarak in Shawrabad,
A gh
Af hans
ns a st
s ak
a e in the
heirirr own futur
urre.
e.
Helmand
and Province
Province.

10 | Across the globe

10 11
Across the globe | 11
Transition. Afghans Partnering
A key element of our strategy is the development of Afghan

taking responsibility.
National Security Forces. Partnering involves the International
Security Assistance Force (ISAF) and Afghan National Security
Force units pairing up in an integrated structure to plan and
conduct security operations together on the ground
in Afghanistan.
The skills learnt through partnering will ensure that Afghans can
The British Army together with our allies, is working with provide their own security and carry out operations without the

Afghan Security Forces to help set the conditions for them

need for direct support from ISAF.
Gradually, Afghan security forces will then take on responsibility
to take responsibility for their own security. A British soldier secures the flank as a patrol of Afghan soldiers
move through a line of trees.
for the security of more and more of the country, on a
district-by-district basis.

Helping to bring
Photograph: British soldiers are working in partnership with the Afghan National Army. about self-governance
We have a clear, realistic and achievable strategy and a properly
resourced campaign plan to deliver it. At the heart of the strategy
is a process of transition from the international community and
ISAF to the government of Afghanistan.

The campaign plan has three phases:

Gaining the initiative. To capitalise upon coalition troop
increases to halt and reverse insurgent momentum.
Consolidation. Working with the Afghan National Security
Forces to hold the gains won in the near-term, ensuring that
the Taliban cannot return.
Sustained security. In the longer term, to enable the phased
handover to the Afghans of security responsibility by supporting
the growth and capability of the Afghan National Security Forces.
This will be achieved through closer integration and partnering;
and by facilitating improvements in governance and socio-
economic development, in order to provide a sustainable,
secure environment.

Deliveriing security
T ena
To nablblee tr
tran
ansi
an siition
tion, Th
The IIn
nte
tern
r at
rn atio
io
ona
nal
al Se
S cuuririty
tyy A
Ass
sssista
taanc
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Forc
Fo rce
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SAF)
F)) is w
wo ork
kin
ingg in
n sup
uppo
p rtt o
off th
theeA
Affgh
ghan an
an
gove
go vern
ve rn
nmem ntt to im mplplem
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em ent a co ou
unnte
ter-
r-insu
r- surg
su gen
e cyy str trat
ateg
at eg
gy.
The
The ke
keyy fefeat
a urres
es arree:
• Pr
Prot
ottecti
ectiing the
e pop
o ul
ulat
atio
at i n.
ion.
• Bu
uili di
ding and tra
ding r inin
inin
ing
g in
indi
ndi
dige
g no
genous
us for
orce
orce
ces.
s
s.
A British soldier partners a patrol of 6th Kandak soldiers from the Afghan
• Re
R in
inte
te
egr
g at
atin
ing
ing in
nto
o ssoc
ocie
ocie
ety tho
hose
s iins
se nsur
nsu ge
ent
nts wh
who
oaarre National Army during Operation TOR TAPUS centred around the town of
prep
prepar
ep ared to re
ared
ar reno
noun
no unnce
e vio
ole
l nc
ce.
e Garmsir in Helmand, Afghanistan.
• To ggiv
ivve th
he Af Afgh
ghan
gh an ppeo
eopl
eo ple co
pl
ple confi
nfifiden
ence
ce ttha
hat the
ha th
he
T liiba
Ta ban n wi
willll n
not
ot ret
e urrn to
o pow wer and d tha
hatt they
can
ca n plplan
a forr a bet ette
t r fu
utu
urere.

12 | Across the globe

12 13
Across the globe | 13
Iraq. Delivering a better
future to Iraq

A nation reborn.
The British Army in southern Iraq
The British Army predominantly operated in south-eastern Iraq,
centred on Iraq’s second city of Basra. Following the coalition
operation to liberate Iraq, the UK assumed command of the
Multi-National Division (South East), responsible for operations in

The British Army played a vital role in the liberation four Iraqi provinces: Al Basrah, Al Muthanna, Dhi Qar and Maysan.
As the security situation improved, responsibility for security within

of Iraq in 2003, and its transition from dictatorship the provinces transitioned to Iraqi provincial control. The British Army
helped set the conditions for transition of authority by supporting
and regional pariah to a burgeoning democracy A soldier patrols the streets of Basra supported by
a Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicle.
the Iraqi security forces and embedding training teams with the
Iraqi Army. Between 2004 and 2009 more than 22,000 Iraqi
and constructive partner. policemen and 20,000 Iraqi soldiers were trained by the
British Army. During the campaign, 178 British Service personnel
gave their lives and many more were seriously injured while bringing
security to Iraq.
Photograph: The British Army played a crucial role in delivering security and stability to Iraq. The UK military mission in Basra was completed in April 2009,
and all UK combat forces withdrawn from Iraq. The UK’s
relationship with Iraq is one of partnership, with a long-term
bilateral defence relationship and close economic, cultural,
commercial and education links. A small number of British Armed
Forces personnel continue to provide specialist training and
mentoring support to the Iraqi Security Forces at the request
of the Iraqi government.

Reconstruction
The sustained improvement in the security situation created the
conditions for the government of Iraq, in partnership with the
international community, to undertake the reconstruction of
key infrastructure. Much of the reconstruction work was carried
out by Iraqis in their own communities using local resources.
With Iraqi responsibility for security fully established, UK support
is now focused on helping the Iraqi government to stimulate
its economy and fulfil its potential as a resource-rich
sovereign nation.

Legacy
The British Army has left a lasting legacy in Iraq, having delivered
security, stability and reconstruction, as well as economic and
governmental development. Through the contribution of those
soldiers who sacrificed their lives and the efforts of all those who
have served, and continue to serve, in Iraq, the country now has
the potential to build a successful future.

Interaction with the local population gained trust and was crucial
in improving security in Iraq.

14
14 | Across the globe 15
Across the globe | 15
Forward-thinking. Delivering long-term success
To ensure it succeeds in this fast-moving era of persistent threat,
the Army must be a thinking, agile, resourceful and tough

Future success.
organisation. The campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan have been,
and remain, excellent means for forging the self-confident
leaders that will ensure the Army meets future challenges as it,
inevitably and rightly, plays a central and challenging role in the
United Kingdom’s strategic engagement around the world.

The British Army is constantly responding to the changing
circumstances of operations across the world.
Photograph: British soldiers on patrol in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
Versatile and adaptive
The Army must be manned, structured and equipped for
21st century conflict; optimised for the most likely events
while prepared at readiness for the less likely. This requires a
versatile and adaptive organisation with a culture of learning and
development at its core; able to absorb lessons rapidly and to
adjust practice, procedures, doctrine and equipment more swiftly
than our adversaries. Training, and the people who drive it, will
take a higher priority than has sometimes historically been
the case. A responsive, tailored military organisation requires the
Army to fully integrate Regulars, Reserves, MoD civil servants and
contracted civilians. Reserves will increasingly focus on support to
enduring operations, and flexible conditions of service will enable
seamless transition between Regular and Reserve service.
The Army must be equipped for the breadth of modern conflict,
with capabilities that span the challenges of hybrid-threats.
Emphasis must be on information superiority, understanding,
the precise application of combat power, protection
and manoeuvre, all in complex terrain. The Army requires
responsive acquisition systems that recognise the rate at which
requirements and technology will change in a dynamic, fiercely
contested battle space.

Innovative and motivated

People will remain the heart of the Army’s capability. A true
warrior ethos: tough, resilient, innovative, highly motivated
and compassionate. An Army whose leaders at every level are
mentally agile, comfortable with uncertainty, seize the initiative
and exploit opportunities. Culturally and technologically-aware
people who are able to work with allies and civilians across the full
breadth of the Joint and Combined operating environment.
The Chieff of the General Strong values and the ethos enshrined in the Moral Component
Staff’s vision are to guide our ways of fighting and living. The soldier and the
family considered as one. With an inclusive culture and way
• To
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lo It is our
ur individual and the family. A through life welfare culture is key;
generation’s war. institutionalising, with other government departments,
• To contribute increasingly to prevention and the nation’s responsibilities to its soldiers and their families
other stability operations, with a close throughout their service and beyond, including unstinting care
eye on homeland security. of the wounded and support to veterans.

• To contribute increasingly to a robust and versatile
Joint Rapid Reaction Force contingent capability
that can take the demand ds of hybrid conflict in
its stride.
• At lower readiness, bee prepared to playy a major
part in more traditional state-on-state co
onfl
n ict.
High standards and service to the nation
The 21st century will be especially demanding. The British Army
has a difficult yet immensely invigorating role in ensuring that the
people it serves remain safe and prosperous. It is a challenge
that will doubtless continue to attract the very high-quality people
that have always distinguished the Army. Embracing agility and
evolving to meet the fast-moving demands of future conflict,
the Army is to continue to act as a beacon of professionalism,
high standards, effectiveness and service to the nation.

16 | Ensuring future success

16
16 17
Ensuring future success | 17 7
Well-prepared The latest equipment

and with the right kit.

The British Army strives to make the most effective
use of its resources and cutting-edge equipment.
A soldier sets up an ultrahigh frequency (UHF) radio antenna
while a Merlin helicopter flies overhead. Communications play
a fundamental role on operations.
Mastiff 2 is a heavily armoured, 6x6 protected patrol vehicle
designed to provide maximum protection, combined with mobility
Photograph: Jackal 2 is a high-mobility weapons platform, with a unique air-bag suspension and firepower. Mastiff 2 is just one of a range of protected vehicles
system allowing rapid movement across varying terrain. being used on operations by the British Army.

The Sharpshooter rifle provides improved capability for British

soldiers on operations, extending the range at which they can
engage the enemy.

Key facts
British Army equipment is constantlyy updat
pdatted aand
nd
ndm mod
odifi
od ifified.
Our specialised Trials and Developpmement UUni
nits
ts rig
ig
gorrou
ousl
slly
test all innovations in armoured vehhic
cles,
s, artillery anndd The state-of-the-art Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS)
infantry equipment, making sure ththat wwe
e have the he
e vver
ey
er provides a high degree of accuracy, delivering a 200lb high-explosive
best available. warhead to its target. The GMLRS has proved itself a very effective
A great deal of effort also goes in
nto ad
nt adap
aptitin
ng weapon system on operations in Afghanistan.
equipment and vehicles to condittio ons in th
the theaatr
tre
e
of deployment - for example, dessertert co
c nditions.

18 | Ensuring future success

18 19
Ensuring future success | 19
World-class A global support system
Medical services are delivered to Armed Forces personnel by the
Ministry of Defence, the NHS, charities and welfare organisations.

medical care.
There are more than 7,000 Regular uniformed medical personnel
from all three Services, known collectively as the Defence Medical
Services (DMS). Within the DMS, the Joint Medical Command
(JMC) has overall responsibility for the delivery of healthcare to
Service personnel on operations and in the UK. The JMC,

The Army totally accepts its responsibility to provide which has about 2,300 staff, has responsibility for:
• The Royal Centre for Defence Medicine (RCDM) at University
effective medical and health care to its people. Hospital Birmingham Foundation Trust (UHBFT) in Selly Oak.

Support to personnel injured on operations is of an
excellent standard and there is continual investment
in clinical improvements.
An officer undergoing physiotherapy at the Defence Medical
Rehabilitation Centre at Headley Court. The facility provides
• The Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC)
at Headley Court in Surrey.
excellent medical treatment and rehabilitation for injured soldiers.
• 15 Regional Rehabilitation Units (RRUs), in the UK
and Germany.
• Five Ministry of Defence Hospital Units (MDHUs), located in
Five NHS hospitals.
• The Defence Dental Service, which provides dental services
to all Armed Forces personnel in the UK and on operations.

The very best care

The Army and the Ministry of Defence are committed to ensuring
soldiers who are wounded, injured or become sick while serving
receive the care and support they need during recovery
and beyond. The Ministry of Defence is working closely with
other government departments and Service charities to achieve
this and to build on the excellent clinical care the Armed Forces
receive at Selly Oak and Headley Court.

Long-term support packages

The Army Recovery Capability, known as the ARC, provides an
improved level of support from the point of injury, regardless of
the cause. It provides a system that brings together a range of
separate services into a single programme that either returns
soldiers to duty or takes them to a point where it is right for them
to be discharged, however long that takes. It will focus on the
specific welfare and personal developmental needs of soldiers
during or after their clinical care, as well as providing support to
their families, where appropriate.
Soldiers who have been, or are expected to be, sick or absent
for a significant period of time will, in the majority of cases,
be assigned to an appropriate Personnel Recovery Unit, which is
likely to be in the area of the soldier’s home address.
The Personnel Recovery Unit integrates all aspects of a soldier’s
recovery, including:
• Medical
• Welfare
• Administrative
• Education
• Housing
• Re-skilling
• Life skills
• Work placements
• Employment (if required)

20 | Ensuring future success

20 21
Ensuring future success | 21
Protecting our Sustainable development
The Ministry of Defence is one of the largest landowners in

environment.
the UK, and much of the Defence Estate has been designated
as internationally, nationally or locally important for nature
conservation. This reflects the huge importance of military land
for wildlife and the quality of land management required to
maintain and protect the natural environment.
There are more than 170 Sites of Special Scientific Interest
We aim to care for and preserve our natural habitat, (SSSI) in the UK, which also include Special Protection Areas

not just at home in the British Isles but wherever we

(SPAs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), UN Ramsar Sites,
World Heritage Sites and 700 archaeological monuments.

are deployed.
Photograph: British soldiers are deployed to the Falkland Islands, where their patrols have
taken them closer than they thought to the local wildlife.
A local tribesman herding his cattle through the training area at
Archers Post, Kenya on Exercise GRAND PRIX.
There are also significant overseas defence estates in Germany,
Cyprus, the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar and Canada. The Army
makes significant efforts to reduce the environmental impact
of conducting training. This consists of a range of measures,
including improving soldiers, environmental awareness and
incident contingency planning.

Suffield - Canada. Canadian Whitetail deer mingling with a Challenger

2 tank. Suffield is the third largest National Wildlife Area in Canada
and clearly demonstrates how military training can be conducted in
an environmentally responsible manner.

Warcop Training Area - Cumbria. Situated within the North Pennines,

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Warcop is also home to the
Army’s first wind-powered firing range.

22 | Ensuring future success

22 At home
Ensuring
and in the
future
community 23
success || 23
23
Training, in the field
and classroom.
Training is a fundamental part of Army life. When they
are not deployed on operations soldiers are working
to improve their skills.
Photograph: Soldiers simulate a compound clearance at the new Afghan village training
facility in Norfolk. Stanford Training Area (STANTA) provides all troops deploying on
operations with the most advanced and relevant training facilities in the UK.
24 | Training and personal development
24
Pursuit of excellence
Soldier initial training
All individuals who join the Army will undertake initial training to
be a soldier first whether they are joining the infantry or as
a tradesman. Infantry recruits are trained by the School of
Infantry at Catterick, and other arms and services at camps in
Bassingbourn, Pirbright, Winchester or Harrogate.
Officer initial training
This takes place at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
This world-renowned institution takes young men and women
and turns them into the leaders of the British Army.
Soldiers training on exercise in Kenya. A common phrase used
in the Army is Train hard, fight easy.
Gaining a trade
Trade training can come in many forms, from repairing and
supporting an attack helicopter, to building a bridge, driving off-
road vehicles, to preparing a meal for several hundred soldiers.
Continuation training
Training does not stop once soldiers have acquired a trade
or role. Training takes place throughout soldiers’ careers,
improving skills that they learned when they joined or developing
new skills, such as leadership and management.
Preparing for civilian life
When soldiers leave the Army, they receive further training to
prepare them for civilian life.
Unit training
Hybrid Foundation Training
Units train soldiers in generic field skills, learning and practicing
adaptive skills that are applicable for any environment.
Mission-Specific Training
Soldiers undergo rigorous training in preparation for operations.
Mission-Specific Training focuses on the immediate operation that
they will deploy on and emphasises elements particular to the
environment, such as culture and language, as well as field skills.
Soldiers rescue a simulated casualty from a simulated minefield while
under fire during an exercise in Kenya.
25
Training and personal development | 25
Educational and Personal development
The education programme

personal development.
The aim of the Soldiers’ Education Programme is to improve the
performance of soldiers both in barracks and on operations.
Command, leadership and management (CLM) courses prepare
Non-Commissioned Officers and Warrant Officers to fulfil the
tasks that they will undertake during their military careers.

From the day recruits begin basic training, they continue
learning right through to the day they leave. The Army
is one of the finest training institutions in the land.
The programmes develop these skills, as soldiers progress
through the ranks, covering basic skills, leadership, management,
and the development of professional military knowledge.
The skills and qualifications that soldiers gain are accredited
Educational and Training Services, officers continue to ensure
that soldiers are provided with the opportunity to continue their
and are, therefore, transferable to civilian life once they
personal development despite demanding operational duties.
leave the Army.

Educational and Training Services

Educational and Training Services, officers, along with 40 MoD
Photograph: Gurkha trainees at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick proudly hold aloft
Basic Skills Development managers, deliver a comprehensive
their City and Guilds educational certificates for language training.
package of basic skills support to soldiers, both in barracks and
on operations.

Career development
Professional development
These skills/qualifications courses are designed to equip officers
and soldiers with the knowledge required to carry out their
jobs in the most efficient and professional manner. The Army
is committed to ensuring that soldiers and officers have the
knowledge and skills required for their rank and responsibilities.

Officer Career Development (OCD)

The OCD programme improves the performance of
young officers, both in barracks and on operations.
The programme develops leadership and management skills,
Key
y facts and also concentrates on intellectual development as well as
professional military knowledge.
Basic sk
skills
The Armyy is committe ted
te d to imp
prro
oving
g the stand
dar
ard of
of
basic skills. All soldiers are requuired
i to reac
ch Bas
assic Ski
k llllss Apprenticeships
Level 1 and Level 2 in literacy an nd numerac cy as th
cy t ey The Army has the largest apprenticeship programme in
progress throuough their careers. the country and offers a wide range of opportunities
across all trades. Areas in which the Army has offered
Helping others to help thems
sel
elv
ves
es
apprenticeships include engineering, information and
Basic Skills Awareness Courses for alllll MoDD pers
errsonnnn nel
el
communications technologies, construction, driving and
are run in every Army Education Centre e. Ad
Addditiional
all m
men ntor
to
or
animal care. New programmes to fit with Army training are
and supporter courses are available for th hos
osee wh
w o may be
continually developed.
involved in any aspect of training or wish to su
sup pport otthe
pp herss
with the basic skills of reading, writing, numeerac
ac cy, spepeakinng,
liist
s ening or Information Technology.

Specific learning difficulties

Sp
Army
A my personnel who have, or believe they y mighthtt have,
e
a ssppec cifi
i c learning difficulty ty can seek advice e and
g id
gu idan
annce
ce throu ugh their Education Centres s. Al
A l Ar
A my
Basi
Ba siic Sk
Skilills
l Dev
evelopment Manag ge
errs ar
are
e tra
trrai
ainedd
dy
yslsleex advisors and can
exia
ex n of
o fer addvi
vice
ce aand
n a rran
nd ange
ge
of sstr
trat
trateg
egies to helellp in
indi
ndivvidu
ual
alss ge
gett th
he ed
ducat
uc
catio
ionn
th
hey wan antt anand
d need
ed..

26 | Training and personal development

26 27
Training and personal development | 27
Developing Essential physical fitness
Physical fitness is an indispensable aspect of the day-to-day

fighting fitness.
effectiveness and combat readiness of the Army. Self-discipline
is required to gain and retain the high levels of physical fitness
inherent in the Army, and must be a part of the character of
every soldier. Personal fitness improves self-confidence,
team cohesion and self-discipline, while reducing susceptibility
to muscular fatigue, injury, mental stress and ill health.

Physical fitness is a fundamental requirement for every officer

and soldier in order to ensure that combat effectiveness,
job performance and general health are maintained.
Photograph: Soldiers test their military skills and physical endurance on a fitness march.
Soldiers carry out early morning physical training in the desert.
Operations in Afghanistan are physically intense and require a
high degree of fitness.
Military fitness
Military fitness can be measured against three different criteria:
• Personal fitness. This is required to protect
individuals from injury, reduce the risk of psychological
stress and disease (resulting from inactivity), enhance
quality of life and reduce the risk of dying prematurely.
• Vocational fitness. This is the level of physical
fitness required to perform a specific job safely and
effectively under normal operating conditions.
• Combat fitness. Combat fitness can be separated
into two parts:
- Basic combat fitness is the minimum level of individual
physical fitness. It is linked to the different ‘generic’ physical
demands associated with service in a specific unit
or operation.
- Advanced combat fitness is the level of physical fitness
related to the role required in supporting the unit mission
on operations. Sport and recreational activities are
complementary. Additional fitness testing may be
authorised by the chain of command as required,
for example, as part of pre-deployment training or as
a formation requirement.

A soldier on the Trainasium assault course at Catterick Garrison takes

a leap of faith into a cargo net. The aerial assault course is designed
to test and develop soldiers’ courage.

28 | Training and personal development

28 29
Training and personal development | 29
Extreme training, Adventurous Training (AT)
Rising to the challenge

real adventures.
Adventurous Training covers a number of challenging
outdoor pursuits, involving controlled exposure to risk,
with the aim of developing leadership, teamwork, physical fitness,
moral and physical courage, among other personal attributes.
These qualities are necessary to enhance the performance of

Adventurous Training provides a valuable addition
to formal military training, helping nurture the values
and standards of the British Army.
Photograph: Lance Corporal Philip Brighouse of the Army Air Corps in action during the
Inter-Services Kayak Championships on the River Nit at Dumfries in Scotland.
Soldiers took part in adventure training in the Cordillera Blanca,
Peru, on Ex DRAGON QUECHA. The expedition took a month
to complete, including prior training in the Swiss Alps.
military personnel during peacetime and war. When properly
conducted, AT enhances an individual’s ability to withstand
the rigours of operations and rapid deployments. AT provides
real challenge, a sense of achievement and excitement.
At the same time it helps broaden soldiers, experience
of travel, and improves their skills and knowledge of an
adventurous activity. AT is open to all soldiers, including the
injured and disabled who can participate through the
Battle Back initiative (see below).
Joint Services Mountain Training Centres (JSMTC)
The JSMTC is based at Anglesey, North Wales, and is the lead
centre for Adventurous Training. There are also fully equipped
training wings for service personnel at Ripon, Argyll and Lillehammer.
The Nuffield Centre in Anglesey can also be used by soldiers and
their families for welfare, recreation and as a base for Adventurous
Training activities.

Battle Back
Battle Back is a MoD initiative based at Headley Court
near Epsom, in Surrey. It exists to ensure that the seriously injured
have access to the same opportunities in sport and Adventurous
Training that are currently available to the able-bodied.
Battle Back’s work makes a huge difference to the lives of
those who have suffered injury, both physically and mentally.

Key facts
Adve
Adve
ent
ntur
urrous
s Tr
T aini
ning
ning
g Ac
cttiv
vittie
ies
Sold
So diie erss tak
a e pa
artt in a ra
ang
ngee of Adv
dven
en
nturo
tu ouss Tra
tu ainin
ng A soldier goes diving as part of the Battle Back initiative,
ac
activi
titivviities
e each year
es a , in
including:: which provides opportunities for injured soldiers to pursue

• Mountainee
M ering adventurous activities as part of their rehabilitation.

• Rock climbing
• Cano oeing
• Caving
• Skiing
• S iling
Sa
• Frree
F re fall parachuting
n
• Gliding
• Hang-gliding/paragliding
• Divingg

30 | Training and personal development

30
30 31
Training and personal development | 31
Army Competing at every level
Sport takes place at various levels within the Army, with the best

sporting life.
sportsmen and women going on to represent the Army against
civilian teams. Many Army teams also compete annually in
Inter-Service competitions against the Royal Air Force and the
Royal Navy. The very best also represent the Combined Services.
Teams at all levels undertake numerous overseas tours competing
against other military and civilian teams in countries such
Sport plays an important part in the Army way of life and as Australia, South Africa and India. Winter sports such as alpine

soldiers who are keen to pursue a sporting interest have

skiing, bobsleigh and nordic/biathlon take place annually in
countries such as Canada, France, Austria, Switzerland and Italy.

every opportunity to do so. SSgt Lloyd Diprose, 8 Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps, is taking
part in the Men’s Individual Giant Slalom.
Some individuals are identified as having the potential to
compete at international level. These ‘elite’ athletes are given
encouragement and assistance to do so, with some undertaking
full-time training. Many Army sports facilities are recognised as
being among the best in UK, in particular the Army Centre of
Photograph: An Army rugby player breaks a tackle during the Army v Navy match in front Sporting Excellence in Aldershot.
of a Twickenham crowd.

Cricket is a very popular summer sport, with Army sides often touring
in the UK and abroad.

Key facts
• Despite
e the high
th h levvel
el of operrat atioonall annd
traiining commi m tmmen
entts,
s, tth
h
he Arrmy my maiaint
ntai
ains
ai ns
a fu
full list of fixtu
t re
ress ac
acro
ro
osss allll sspo
po
port
rts
ts.
s.
• Th
The
e Ar
A my
my SSpo
port
porrtt Con
ontr trol
tr ol Boa
ol oarrd
rd has
a 43
3 Sp
Spor
orrts
U io
Un ons and Ass
sssococia
iia
atit on
ns.
• The Ar
Arm
Army
myy o
org
r ani
rg anis
an isess c
ises com
ompe
om p titittition
pe ns att alll levels Football in the Army is played at every level, with the Army team
across the rangeg of sports and discipliness o
ge on
n of
offe
fer.
r. achieving a very high standard with excellent facilities to match.
M nyy spo
Ma port
rtss al
alsoo orggan
anis
ise
ise ag
age- e-g
group p fixtures
es.
• Th
her
eree iss a lon
ongg hi
h stor
o y off B
Brirititish
hAArm
rmy repr
pres
esen
senta
tatition
on
att the Oly lymp
mpic
mp ic G
Gam
ames
am es,
es
s, bo
both
th ssum umme
um merr an
me and
d wi
wint
nter
nter.
er
Cele ebr
bratate
ted successes inclu ude Dame Kelly Holmes’s
gold med e al
al at Sydney in 2004.

32 | Training and personal development

32 33
Training and personal development | 33
A firm base at home Looking after our people
Service personnel, who put themselves in harm’s way on our behalf,

and in the community.

must have the support they need, and their families must be
looked after properly both during and after service.
There are several concrete measure to help achieve this.
They touch on many aspects of a Serviceman or woman’s life,
from education to pay, from mental health to welfare support while
deployed on operations. Initiatives are being piloted to ensure
The British Army is based throughout the United Kingdom the Service community has access to help and support from

and the soldiers and their families are part of local life.
statutory bodies, charities and the voluntary sector. Housing is
prioritised for Service personnel and they can apply for funds to
Pipers at the Windsor Castle Royal Tattoo. Public events Further and Higher Education courses and have better access to
such as shows and military tattoos celebrate the Armed Forces employment schemes when they leave service.
and showcase the talents of servicemen and women.
Invaluable public support
There has been a tremendous outpouring of public appreciation
for Britain’s Armed Forces, for their sacrifices, and their heroism.
Photograph: Homecoming parades have become a common sight in the cities
Thousands have attended parades to welcome home
and towns of the United Kingdom.
military personnel, and parish ceremonies to pay their respects to
servicemen and women killed in battle. Millions of people in Britain
wear a Remembrance Day poppy, contributing to the millions of
pounds raised each year for Armed Forces charities.
We strongly advise the public to support our troops in this way,
rather than by sending goodwill parcels. The volume of parcels
sent by the public can place a significant strain on the supply chain,
which can also put personnel at extra risk. Parcels to troops from
the general public can also delay the all-important letters and
parcels sent by families and close friends.

Armed Forces Day

The last Saturday in June each year has been designated as
Armed Forces Day, and is marked annually by a series of national
and local events, providing an opportunity for the nation to show
its support for the men and women who make up the Armed
Forces community.

A firm base
• The
The Ar
Armymy mus usst b be e secuuree at hom
ome,e, wwitith
hcco omm
mmititite
tedd
sold
so ld
die
i rss and
nd
d fam miliie
es, fre
ee
eddom to lilive
e andn wo
nd ork,
k,
infr
infras
astr
trructu
uctu
uct ree tthaha
at is fit for
or pur
urp
pose, a he
pose eal
altth
hy in
nflow w
of n
new
ew rece ru
ruititss an
nd pu ublic
blic
ic sup
ppo
port.
• Th
Thee ‘F
‘Firirm
m Ba
B se
s ’ de esc
s ribe es a se ecu
c rre
e env
nviriron
on
nme
mentnt,, at
a hom me
and
an d ov
overrseeas
as,, th
t at sus
usta
tain ns th
t e Ar
Army
my, enab
my, able
les trai
aini
ning
ng www.armedforcesday.org.uk
for, and
fo d depe lo
loymen nt on
on, op
on, oper
eraations and ensur
e ureses the
h
cons
co nsen
entt an
and
d suupp por
ort off tthe
he public and hoh st nattio ions.
• Most of th the
e ac
actitivvitiies
acti e requiired to sup ppo
p rt soldiers are
lilink
n ed
d – wel elfa
f re and d acc
ccom
o mo oda
d tion
o being good
e am
ex mples es. Th
Thhe
e dedelilive
ve
ery of thesse se erv
rvic
ices, therefore,
ic
requ
re quirires
ess wor
ork
rking c clolose
sely
ly w
witith
h th
he co
ommunity.
mm
mm

34 | At home and in the community

34 At home
At home andand in the
in the community 35
community || 35
35
The Army and A special bond
The Army is like a family, being one of the largest, strongest and

extended family.
closest family units that you will find. Ask soldiers what they
felt most during their time in the Army and they will often
say camaraderie. It’s a special bond, unlike any other.

We provide
The Army values its people and their families, Housing

and is committed to looking after them.

The Regular Army provides subsidised accommodation of various
sizes for all its personnel, depending on their circumstances.
The Army provides Service Families Accommodation for There is Single Living Accommodation (SLA) available for
married personnel or personnel in civil partnerships. single personnel or those with a family who choose to serve
unaccompanied at their posting. While multi-occupancy barrack-
type rooms are still used by recruits during initial training, other
SLA is in the process of being converted into, or replaced by,
Photograph: An Army medic is hugged by her loved ones on returning from single occupancy en-suite rooms. For married personnel and
operations in Afghanistan. personnel in civil partnerships, the Army provides Service Families’
Accommodation usually close to or, if possible, within 10 miles
of their duty station.

Education for the family

Both at home and overseas, Service personnel and their
adult dependants can extend their education and earn
valuable qualifications. Although most children from military
families serving in the United Kingdom attend their local
civilian school, some opportunities exist to attend a boarding
school to maintain stability, as Service families often move
every two to three years.

Education for children overseas

Service Children’s Education is a Ministry of Defence agency
dedicated to the education of the children of Servicemen
and women, and Ministry of Defence employees serving overseas.
Its first-class system of schools and educational support services
provide an effective and efficient education, from foundation
through to sixth form, enabling Service children to benefit from
living overseas.

Chaplaincy support
Chaplaincy support is available for Service personnel and
their families. This support is confidential and outside of the
chain of command. Chaplains provide support to all personnel,
regardless of faith, and can be contacted via the unit.

Charities
There are a large number of charities that support the Armed
Forces and the Army, making a huge contribution to the lives of

Key facts soldiers and their families. ABF The Soldiers’ Charity has been
supporting the Army family since 1944, providing assistance to
Army
my Wellfa
are
re Service
ce both soldiers and their families.
Much h of th
the e ssuupp
pporrt av
avai
a la
able too Arm
rmy pe ers
rsonne
rson nel annd
theirr fa
fam
milliiess, wh
mi w ererev
ever
er the
heey arre lo
ocaate
ted, is gi
give
ven n th
thro
roug
oug
ughh
th
he Ar
A myy Welfa fare
re S
Ser
ervi
v cee (AWWS)S , a proffession
nalal andd
co
confi
n den ntial supuppoport serrvice
ce. Th
The AWAWS has th hre
reee ma
m iin
n
task
tas s: Commu munityty Sup pport
port,, Pe
Pers
rson
o al Suppopo
port
ort andnd
H VE
HI V infn or
orma mation ser e vic
ces.

36 | At home and in the community

36 37
At home and in the community | 37
Reserves Reserve Forces and
Cadets Association

and Cadets.
Volunteer Reserves and Cadets choose to serve, giving their time
and commitment to their community and our country. Royal Naval
Reserve (and the Royal Marines Reserve), the Territorial Army and
the RAF Reserves underpin the three Services.
They rely on and deserve the support of a dedicated organisation

Often the most visible part of the Army family in the
community, Reserve Forces and Cadets play a key
role in promoting the Armed Forces and developing
staffed by people familiar with their environment, who understand
the context of their contribution and have their interests at heart.
Reserve Forces and Cadets Associations (RFCAs) provide this point
of contact around the UK through 13 autonomous Associations.
Army Cadets study map reading during a summer camp.
These have some 8,000 volunteer members supported by a

young people. professional staff.

www.rfcacouncil.org.uk

Supporting Britain’s Reservists

and educational activities. The Army Cadet Force motto is ‘To inspire to achieve’.
and Employers - SaBRE
SaBRE is a Ministry of Defence marketing and communications
campaign. SaBRE provides general advice to employers
and Reservists, as well as information about everything from
a Reservist’s training obligations to an employer’s legal rights
and responsibilities. Its activity includes staffing a helpline for
Reservists and employers (0800 389 5459); lobbying on behalf
of Reservists and their employers; and raising awareness of
Reservists’ skills and qualities, plus the benefits of
employing them.
www.sabre.mod.uk

Army Cadets
The Army Cadet Force (ACF) is a national voluntary
youth organisation. Formed more than 150 years ago, it is
sponsored by the Army and provides challenging military,
adventurous and community activities. Today the ACF welcomes
boys and girls of all abilities and backgrounds from the age of 12.
Army cadets take part in a range of fun, exciting and challenging
activities that can contribute to their wider education.
The ACF consists of about 47,000 cadets and 8,500 adult
volunteers spread across the UK in some 1,700 local
detachments. Its aim is to inspire young people to achieve
success in life with a spirit of service to the Queen, their country
and their local community, and to develop in them the qualities
of a good citizen. The ACF is a gateway to recognised vocational
qualifications, ranging from the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme
Key facts to BTEC First Diplomas, which can help in school and
working life.
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 Past and present.
“ In Britain we remember those no longer serving,
including those who have died for their country;
for we in this nation have a deep and abiding respect
for our past.” Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
commemoration of the Normandy Landings, in France, which took place on June 6th 1944.
40 | At home and in the community
40
Veterans
Service Personnel and Veterans Agency (SPVA)
The Ministry of Defence places great store on the provision of
high-quality support services to serving military personnel,
ex-Servicemen and women and their respective dependants.
The SPVA aims to improve pensions, welfare and support
services to members of the Armed Forces and veterans.
www.veterans-uk.info
Free help and advice is available on 0800 169 2277
Veterans Welfare Service The Veterans Badge.
The main role of the Veterans Welfare Service is to give advice,
guidance and practical help to War Disablement Pensioners and
War Widows/Widowers. The service also provides help to people
who are in the process of claiming under the War Pensions
Scheme or the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme.
The welfare service will try to help with any kind of problem
veterans may have. It does not have to be directly related to
disablement or service in HM Armed Forces. The service works
closely with all the main ex-Service organisations and, by doing
this, ensures veterans and their dependants can access a wide
range of advice and help.
Remembrance
It is a fundamental characteristic of human nature to remember
The new Armed Forces Memorial, with the names of almost 16,000
and commemorate the fallen, not merely for the sake of our own
Servicemen and women, Regular and Reserve who have been killed
peace of mind, but for the instruction of future generations so that
on duty since the end of the World War II.
they might recognise the price of freedom. The sacrifice of those
(Image courtesy of Redspace)
who earned our freedoms is not forgotten and on Remembrance
Sunday - the Sunday nearest 11 November - the nation led by
the Monarch, honours its war dead at the Cenotaph in London.
Elizabeth Cross
The Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll are granted to the
next of kin of UK Armed Forces personnel who have died
on operations or as a result of an act of terrorism in national
recognition of their loss and sacrifice. The Elizabeth Cross is not
a posthumous medal for the fallen but an emblem demonstrating
tangible national recognition for Service families for their loss.
The Elizabeth Cross is made of hallmarked silver and is in the form
of a cross with a laurel wreath passing between the arms.
The arms of the cross bear floral symbols representing England
(rose), Scotland (thistle), Ireland (shamrock) and Wales (daffodil).
The Elizabeth Cross.
The centre of the cross bears the crowned cypher of Her Majesty
The Queen. The reverse of the cross is engraved with the name
of the Service person in whose memory it is granted. A miniature
version of the Elizabeth Cross is also granted.
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At home and in the community | 41
On parade. Events and displays
The Army takes part in, and hosts, many public events
throughout the year, from military tattoos and musical
spectaculars to displays of some of the most up-to-date

State ceremonial, public duties and parades equipment in use today by Armed Forces worldwide.
Such displays give the public the chance to witness the skills
are iconic symbols of the British Army and and versatility of our soldiers, and get a good look at the Army
close up. It is important the public is aware that those who take
its military spirit. part in these ceremonial events are soldiers who deploy on
operations when not in the public eye.

The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery at Horse Guards Parade. Steeped in history
The history of the British Army spans more than three and a
half centuries and numerous conflicts. In peacetime, Britain has
generally maintained only a small professional volunteer Army,
expanding this as required in time of war. The Army has been
Photograph: The official birthday of the Sovereign is marked each year in June by a military
involved in many international conflicts, including the Napoleonic
parade and march-past on Horse Guards Parade, London.
Wars, the Crimean War and the two World Wars. In the 1990s,
the Army became increasingly involved in multinational security
and stabilisation operations and this has continued into the
21st century.

Museums
The many museums of the British Army’s regiments and corps
form a network that extends throughout the UK. They are
there to help people discover the rich and illustrious history
of British Army units. Each one is a rich source of collections
and historical information that provide a unique insight into the
inspirational deeds of courage, bravery and good-humoured
fortitude that have characterised the British Army throughout
the centuries.
www.armymuseums.org.uk

The Fusilier Museum in Bury.

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