PLUS

TRAVEL,
ADVENTURE,
QUALIFICATIONS
AND SUCCESS
Army life
INSIDE
Get to the
heart of
the action
Take your place
in the Armys
combat team
YOUR GUIDE TO
THE INFANTRY
2 3
WELCOME
A
n Infantry career places
you at the heart of front-
line action, giving you the
ultimate challenge in locations
across the globe. And most jobs
come with qualifications, putting
you in a strong position if you
ever decide to leave the Army.
On top of this theres a huge
range of specialist positions to
choose from, which ensures your
job never gets boring or stale.
You could become a Driver,
Signaller, Medic or Machine
Gunner. And you even get the
chance to put yourself forward
for selection to become a Sniper,
Commando or to join a Special
Forces unit like the SAS.
Add to this the chance to take
part in adventurous training in
exotic locations, and to develop
great friendships with the lads in
your unit, and theres a career
worth fighting for in the Infantry.
CONTENTS
Sport and lifestyle 4
What Infantry Soldiers and Officers
get up to in their spare time
Heart of the action 6
Infantrymen display their skill
and bravery on the front line
Combat roles explained 12
How Infantry Soldiers
operate on the battlefield
Specialist roles 14
Choose a speciality and see what
an Army career can do for you
Your next move 22
Take your first step towards a place
in the Armys front-line force
TELLING IT
LIKE IT IS
For the lowdown on what its like to be in the
Infantry, theres no one better to ask than the
people doing the job right now
School wasnt for me and I didnt
get many GCSEs, but the Infantry
has taught me useful skills and
given me a trade for life p19
PrivateRobbieArnott, 17, Infantry Driver (Regular)
Bombs, bullets and bravery as the
Infantry takes on insurgents in the
Green Zone of Afghanistan p6
I joined up to see action with my
friends on the front line p7
Lieutenant SamPerrin, 25 (Regular)
Check out the list of
specialist jobs on offer
from the Infantry and
choose a career that
suits your skills p14
The Army gives me
time to play football,
but I never forget
Im a Soldier before
anything else p12
LanceCorporal KevinShinn, 26 (Regular)
You can become a top sportsman in the Infantry the Army invests
millions in facilities, coaching and adventurous training
D
owntime in the Army is excellent, says rugby
ace Ratu Joni Nabulivou (main picture).
One moment youre on adventurous training
abroad, learning to ski or scuba dive. The next,
youre enjoying sports coaching from experienced pros.
Im usually buzzing from my weeks Infantry training,
so I want the same adrenaline rush in my free time.
But the Armys top-quality sports facilities are not just
for letting off steam. The Infantry produces some of the
best sportsmen in Britain, and decathlete Zico Benjamin
(far right) is the latest in a long line. With the Armys help,
I am aiming to compete in the London Olympics in 2012.
I would love to win gold for my country on home soil.
HARDER
,
FASTER
FITTER
,
STRONGER
AT EASE
W
ithout the Armys backing I would struggle to
make my mark, admits decathlete and pole
vault champion Private Zico Benjamin.
Athletics is an expensive business. Vaulting poles, for
example, cost 500 each, says the Infantryman, who
returned from his first tour of Afghanistan last year.
Zicos next posting in Germany will enable him to train
full-time for what he hopes will be his England debut at
the Commonwealth Games. If I can produce personal
bests at the right time, theres no reason why I cant make
the squad. And if I achieve this, competing in the 2012
Olympics is a real possibility.
PRIVATE ZICO BENJAMIN, 23 (REGULAR)
The Infantry is helping this decathlete set his
sights on gold at the 2012 Olympics in London
S
uccess in Army sports can really put
your unit on the map. Just ask Lance
Corporal Nathan Bruford, captain of
the 2nd Battalions Army Cup-winning
rugby team. His sides exploits on
the field have given Nathans
regiment a fierce reputation.
Our Commanding Officer is
so proud of the boys that he
presents us with our shirts
before we leave for away
games, says Nathan. The
support we get is fantastic.
Nathan and his team-mates are
released for full-time training
during the season, and travel as far afield
as Germany for away matches. All we can
do now is keep winning, he says. With the
Armys support, they stand a good chance.
LANCE CORPORAL
NATHAN BRUFORD, 25
(REGULAR)
This Lance Corporal is making
quite a splash on the rugby pitch

4 5
RIFLEMAN ROSS BURKINSHAW, 21
(REGULAR)
Rifleman Ross has the
Armys support in the ring
R
ifleman Ross Burkinshaw
is the first serviceman
to pursue a professional
boxing career while still active
as a Soldier. The Army regards
him highly, too, and is throwing
its weight behind his career.
After winning two military titles
at flyweight and making the
final of the Amateur Boxing Championships in
2005, they now let him train full-time. The Army
respects me for my boxing, says Ross, who is now
accompanied into the ring by an Infantry bugler.
As long as I top up my training every year and
maintain my skills, they are happy to give me the
time. And if theyre happy, Im happy.
The Infantry lets Private
Zico Benjamin train full-
time to pursue his dream

The Infantrys adventurous training opportunities can take you all over the world
IN ACTION
and the early morning half-light casts a
strange halo over the mountains that sweep into the lush desert
oasis of Helmand Province. Tucked away in a ditch, Lieutenant
Sam Perrin adjusts his night vision. The rest of his team wait
silently behind for the signal.
Sam is leading a dawn raid on the tiny village of Mazdurak,
located on the banks of the Helmand River in south-western
Afghanistan. Known to the British Infantry as the Green Zone,
it is an area of huge strategic importance.
The objective is clear: storm the village under cover of
darkness and use force to drive out its insurgent occupants.
It was a classic dawn assault, remembers Sam. I was in
charge of the lead platoon, and we had to cross 250 metres of
open ground before first light to gain a foothold in the village.
Reaching its outer edge, Sam and his men took the first few
buildings without firing a single bullet. Then chaos.
I remember hearing bang, bang, bang followed by the call
of Man down! One of Sams company had been wounded by
an insurgent positioned in a bunker. He had been shot in the
shoulder, and we were quickly engaged in fierce fighting with
the enemy, explains Sam. Seven of our team took up a position
on a nearby rooftop. We were coming under heavy fire from the
enemy and the raid was rapidly turning into an extremely
serious firefight.
IN ACTION
0400hrs
Bravery, teamwork and true grit was how the Infantry rid an
Afghan village of insurgents during an undercover dawn raid
the Heart
of the Action
The Infantrys mission
was to locate, engage
and defeat insurgents
SA80 A2 L85
Individual weapon
Accurate and versatile
small-arms assault weapon
personal load carrying
equipment (PLCE)
Used for carrying
ammunition, water, food
and protective equipment
Combat 95
clothing system
Also called Disruptive
Pattern Material (DPM),
this flame-resistant outfit
allows Soldiers to blend
in on desert operations
personal role radio
Given to all Soldiers,
the PRR allows secure
communication with
section commanders
during combat
7 6

on the front line

Lieutenant Sam Perrin, 25
Commander (Regular)
Student to Infantry Platoon
Officer in just three years
In many ways, Sams recent
tour of Afghanistan was a
desire satisfied. Soldiers join
up to see action, and he
saw his fair share. During a
six-month operation called
Herrick 6, Sam threw more
than 15 grenades, fired 1000
rounds and gave orders for
more than 30 air strikes.
The codename Operation Herrick is given to all British operations in Afghanistan
IN ACTION
You look round, see your friends
beside you and think, I am not
going to let these people down
One of my platoon, Guardsman Alex
Harrison, was then wounded at close
range. But he showed the kind of bravery
typical of Infantrymen. He refused
medical attention until he had drawn a
map of the enemys location in the sand.
His heroism ultimately won us that day in
Helmand Province, and he was decorated
for bravery when he returned to the UK.
During the four-hour fight, Sams
platoon threw in excess of 100 grenades,
fired 10,000 rounds of ammo, and gave
orders for several air strikes. The mission
that morning was a success, taking out
more than 30 enemy fighters with Sams
team sustaining four non-fatal injuries.
I absolutely knew that every single
person would do what was expected of
them, says Sam. You look round, see
your best friends alongside you and think,
Im not going to let these people down
because theyre not letting me down.
Theres a brotherhood and spirit in the
The Infantry win the lions share of medals
because they drive most of the close-
quarter fighting. And front-line action
brings with it the chance to be
honoured by your country. Lance
Corporal Johnson Beharry VC is the
Infantrys most decorated Soldier. On
two separate occasions in Iraq he risked
his life to save his colleagues, once even
receiving head injuries following an attack
by a rocket-propelled grenade. Beharry
received the Victoria Cross, the
countrys highest military
honour, on March 18, 2005.
He is the first Soldier to
get the Victoria Cross in
20 years, and the most
decorated still serving
in the British Army.
In the Army, the accolades for
success are far greater than any
you can get on civvy street
Infantry that I dont think you get in any
other job in civvy street.
This wasnt Sams only contact with
the enemy in Afghanistan. Most Soldiers
join the Infantry to experience front-line
action, and hes seen plenty.
Being a Soldier is all Ive ever wanted
to do, says Sam. Like most Infantrymen,
I joined to get a taste of the front line to
show what I could do. Its my dream, and
Im lucky enough to have followed it.
All the training back in the UK is geared
towards precisely this type of village
assault. For Sam, this meant Officer
training at the Royal Military Academy
Sandhurst, followed by an intensive
Platoon Commanders Battle Course at the
Infantry Battle School in South Wales.
Its amazing, says Sam. Three years
ago I was a student. Now Im a Platoon
Commander in charge of a 30-man team
on a real-life battlefield.
Training equips you for every
eventuality. It teaches you how to engage
the enemy in tough terrain such as
the Green Zone in Afghanistan or the
desert towns of Iraq. When I arrived in
Afghanistan I felt totally prepared, and
I know my guys felt the same.
One of his guys that day was Corporal
Matty Willan. His relationship with Sam
and the team was forged during training
exercises in the UK. Soldiers usually join
their local regiment, says Matty, which
often means training and fighting with
people from your home town sometimes
even the same street. Regiments are like
your second family Soldiers look out
1
2
T
T
T
T
T
T
T
infantry
medals for
bravery
How the Infantry used initiative, bravery and fire
power to secure the Afghan village of Mazdurak
Sam Perrin (inset below) and his platoon had been watching
Mazdurak for weeks before the attack, making sure no
civilians lived there. As this battle map shows, their mission
was to drive out insurgents and secure the village for
its people. But it was far from straightforward...
story of the raid
1
Sams company runs across 250 metres of open ground
in the dark to reach the first compound in Mazdurak
2
Coming under attack from insurgents, Sams team
reach a compound and open fire on the enemy
3
Seven of Sams platoon position themselves on a rooftop
and engage 20 insurgents in fierce exchanges
4
Guardsman Alex Harrison is shot and wounded as he
crosses open ground to gain a foothold on the village
The compound
where Samand
his teamcame
under heavy fire
4
3
Key to symbols
INSURGENTS
T
gazing into
the green zone
The lush valleys beside the
Helmand River produce
most of the countrys food,
but have become a strong-
hold for insurgents

mission briefing
HRHPrince Charles
congratulates Johnson
on his Victoria Cross
Life on operations is
about skill, bravery and
covering your mates back

STORY OF THE RAID

#
8 9 The Infantrys SA80 Assault Rifle has an effective range of more than 300m
IN ACTION
Going on tour and experiencing
combat is what Soldiers are trained to do,
and its when all our training comes into practice.
But when were not engaging the enemy, we take time out to relax. Some take the
opportunity to contact friends and family, or read letters from home. Others call their
girlfriends or send texts. I like to hang out with my mates watch DVDs, play cards,
listen to music because our group gets on really well together.
This bond is forged back at base in the UK. We have a great time in barracks,
and even get the chance to go on adventurous training abroad together, but
theres a much stronger bond on operations. We all work for each other you
go out on tour as friends, but you come back to the UK as brothers.
at ease
Life on tour is not all about work
just ask Corporal Matty Willan
for each other and cover each others
backs on operations and back at home.
According to Sam, this closeness unites
people of all ranks. Im not the type of
Officer to remain distant from my men,
he says. Were all in it together. Putting
the team first is one of the reasons the
British Army has such an impressive
record in the field. That and the fact we
have the best weapons systems, he grins.
Securing Afghanistan for its people
Success in Afghanistan for the British
Army means three things defeating
insurgents in strategic regions, eventually
driving them out of the country altogether,
and helping Afghanistans government to
regain power in key areas.
The majority of Afghans used to live in
Green Zone towns like Mazdurak because
its one of the few areas in the country
where farming is possible. Not now.
Insurgents see the Helmand Province
as a testing ground for their ability to take
control of the entire country.
Were using our skills and training to
support Afghanistans civilian population
in their efforts to rebuild their country,
explains Matty. Securing and repairing
essential supply lines is vital to this.
Continues Sam: This means driving
out insurgents and re-establishing Afghan
National Army control. Were doing this by
securing one town at a time, so raids like
this one in Helmand Province are crucial.
The insurgents have never returned to
Mazdurak. After a long break and some
downtime abroad, Lieutenant Sam Perrin
and Corporal Matty Willan will certainly
go back and finish the work they started.
10 11
Letting off steam
during an operational
tour of Afghanistan

The operation in Afghanistan is not

just about defeating insurgents.
Our aim is to make Helmand Province
the centre of Afghan trade and government again,
and a strong local army is essential to make this happen.
We work closely with the Afghan National Army, and often
carry out patrols on the streets and in conflict zones together.
On top of this, we are tasked with supporting the civilian
population and helping them rebuild the country after almost
a decade of occupation by insurgents. We secure essential
supplies and rebuild vital facilities it is important work.
Territorial Soldier Lance Corporal Chris
Comley has seen first-hand how the Army
works closely with the people of Afghanistan
helping people
rebuild their lives
Soldiers patrol with
the Afghan National
Army as part of
Operation Herrick 6

Infantrymen lend
a helping hand to
local children
Mission accomplished,
SamPerrin returns to base
Afghanistans Helmand Province is at the centre of the conflict with insurgents
12
IN DETAIL
Discover how the Infantry is organised in battle
and see which combat role matches your talents
W
herever you work on the
battlefield, you will not
be alone. The Infantry is
the biggest part of the Army, which
means more than 25,000 troops
covering your back. Added support
from the Army Air Corps and Royal
Armoured Corps gives you cover
from the militarys most impressive
vehicles and fiercest firepower.
In combat, Soldiers are grouped
into battalions units of about 600
men commanded by a Lieutenant
Colonel. For maximum impact,
these battalions are then assigned
to one of four combat roles.
Here, we explain these roles and
show how the blend of people and
kit make it one of the worlds most
impressive fighting forces.

AIR ASSAULT INFANTRY

PROVIDING SOLDIER SUPPORT FROM THE SKIES
VEHICLE OF CHOICE The mighty Chinook is a heavyweight
utility helicopter that can carry everything fromammunition
to armoured vehicles under its vast fuselage. It also delivers the
Infantrys Air Assault teams by landing near the combat zone.
AIRBORNE INFANTRY
The RAF-crewed Chinook is capable of
carrying 30 fully equipped Infantry Soldiers
into action anywhere on the battlefield.
your role
in combat
CREW
LIGHT INFANTRY
THE FLEXIBLE FIGHTING FORCE
WHAT THEY DO This is the Infantrys largest and most
versatile role. Light Infantry is deployed in all types of
terrain, frommountains and forests to urban areas.
VEHICLE OF CHOICE The Jackal is the Light Infantrys
all-terrain, super-versatile troop buster. This beast is
loaded with weapons and armour, and is used to
provide lethal covering fire for advancing troops.
CREW
A three-man team crews
the Jackal. It comprises a
driver, commander and a
gunner giving cover from
the rear weapons platform.
TECHNOLOGY
The blades of the
Chinook helicopter
spin 225 times per
minute, producing
top speeds of more
than 185mph!
TECHNOLOGY
225 SPINS
PER MINUTE
ARMOURED INFANTRY
CARVING OUT A PATH TO THE FRONT LINE
TECHNOLOGY
WHAT THEY DO The Armoured Infantry can be found in the thick of
the action. Their mission is to take and hold ground fromthe enemy
so that following units can advance to set up field facilities.
The Bulldog weighs a
mighty 15.3 tonnes, due in
part to its heavy armour.
Some models also come
equipped with a powerful
Remote Weapon Station.
PROTECTIVE MOBILITY
THE INFANTRYS TANK-PROOF TROOPERS
WHAT THEY DO Protective Mobility units deliver close combat troops
to enemy positions and leads the fight in forests and urban areas.
TECHNOLOGY CREW
Two Soldiers operate the
Bulldog one drives, while
the other commands and
provides cover by operating
the remote weapons system.
15.3
TONNES
VEHICLE OF CHOICE Protective Mobility
Soldiers rely on the Bulldog for
hardcore protection on the battlefield.
It can withstand a pounding from
enemy artillery, and its versatile as
well. The Bulldog can be anything from
a command unit and mortar carrier to
a recovery vehicle and ambulance.
PEOPLE POWER
THE ARMYS BEST WEAPON
YOU FIRST Weapons and equipment are
vital in combat. The most important
element, though, is you the expertly
prepared combat Soldier. The human
body is a superbly tuned fighting
machine versatile, strong and clever.
And in the Infantry, Soldiers are given
expert training so they can deal
with every battle scenario. Guns are
good, but people are the Infantrys
ultimate weapon in combat.
The Warriors 30mm
cannon makes mincemeat
of enemy craft, and this
vehicle can even withstand
attacks fromhelicopters.
3
0
M
M
CREW
The Jackal comes loaded with a
Heavy Machine Gun (pictured)
and a mighty grenade launcher,
which fires 40mmhigh-explosive
shells. Both have a range
of 2000 metres.
VEHICLE OF CHOICE
The Warrior armoured
vehicle blasts troops
to the front line thanks
to a dizzying array of
weapons. It blazes a
path through enemy
forces with its 30mm
cannon, a 7.62mm
chain gun and
intimidating
smoke discharger.
WHAT THEY DO One of the first into front-line action,
Soldiers in the Air Assault role either parachute into battle
or are inserted directly by helicopters and other aircraft.
OUR EXPERT
Name: Lance Corporal
Kevin Shinn, 26
Job: Infantry Soldier
(Regular)
Three Soldiers
operate the Warrior
a commander,
driver and a gunner
who operates the
30mm cannon and
7.62mm chain gun.
13
14 15
ANTI-TANK MISSILE OPERATOR

The Role Anti-Tank Missile Operators are
the Infantrys tank-busters. Every Infantry
battalion has an Anti-Tank platoon, charged
with defeating enemy strongholds.
The Skills This is a vital specialist role that
requires training in how to operate state-
of-the-art anti-tank missile technology.
COMBAT ASSAULT ENGINEER

The Role Combat Assault Engineers are
the Infantrys battlefield builders and
demolishers. You must be fearless in the
face of the enemy and remain calm under
pressure, even during tough tasks.
The Skills Combat Assault Engineers
receive additional training in the creation
of obstacles such as minefields and barbed-
wire entanglements, while also learning
to deactivate enemy traps. On top of this
you will be taught demolition skills, and can
get qualifications in Joinery and Carpentry.
COMMANDO
The Role Infantry Commandos are some
of the worlds best Soldiers strong, tough
Visit army.mod.uk/jobs to see which specialist job suits you
MECHANICAL
KEY TO SYMBOLS
IT
MANUAL
TECHNICAL
TRAVEL
DRIVING
COMBAT
TERRITORIAL
OPPORTUNITIES
W
hatever you choose
to do in the Infantry,
youre a Soldier first
skilled in every aspect
of modern combat. You begin your
career in the Army with a training
programme, which teaches you all the
skills needed for life in the field. This
includes an education in maths, digital
technology and advanced driving.
After that, you can specialise. You
could become anything from a
Machine Gunner, Mortar Operator or
Anti-Tank Missile Operator to a Driver
or Sniper. And if you show the right
stuff later on, you could even try for
selection for the elite Special Forces.
Specialist jobs also come with
qualifications, and the Army helps you
turn them into civilian accreditation
if you leave. There are lots of jobs
available and youre not locked into
the same role forever. Regardless of
your rank or regiment, theres always
the option to switch and experience
something different.
Whatever you want, and whatever
your skills, theres a place for you in
the Armys front line force. Read on
to discover your ideal role
SPECIALIST JOBS
Become an Infantry combat expert and get skills and qualifications along the way
Ive just been promoted and
am now responsible for a
specialist section. Being in charge
of a team is weird at first, especially
when youve come up from the
lower ranks, but I really enjoy it.
The best thing about the Army,
though, is the variety. I dont like
routine, so being able to change
specialist jobs every couple
of years is absolutely perfect.
Name: Colour Sergeant Elliot Hughes, 32
Job: Anti-tank Section Commander (Regular)
Job notes
16 17
and versatile in the field. On the front
line you will work closely with the Navys
Royal Marines and Armys ground troops,
providing a vital link between land and sea.
The Skills To become a Commando you
must pass the All Arms Commando course,
an advanced Soldier programme run by the
Royal Marines. Becoming a Commando
is also a big step towards selection for a
Special Forces unit like the SAS.
INFANTRY DRIVER
The Role The role of Infantry Driver is
two jobs rolled into one. You will be an
Advanced Combat Driver with a host
of licences, and an expert in vehicle
maintenance, qualified to fix and replace
complex vehicle parts. And you will get to
drive everything from a weapons-mounted
Jackal to a Warrior armoured vehicle.
The Skills On top of training in basic
maintenance, you have the chance to get
category B, C and E driving licences as
well as a certificate in hazardous
materials. You will also work towards an
apprenticeship in engineering.
INFANTRY MUSICIAN

The Role After basic training as a Combat
Infantryman, you can choose to become
a regimental drummer, piper or bugler.
The Skills You will be a Soldier first, trained
as a Machine Gunner, but you will also play
a role in maintaining regimental traditions.
INFANTRY IT
SYSTEMS OPERATOR

The Role All Soldiers receive basic training
in IT and digital kit, but as an Infantry
Signaller you go one step further. You will
provide communication links for small
teams. You could even become the linkman
delivering messages to around 600 Soldiers.
The Skills Signallers play a vital role in
combat, so you must be techno savvy,
articulate and have the soldiering skills to
prevent data falling into enemy hands. You
will complete an apprenticeship in digital
communications and gain IT skills.
INFANTRY STOREMAN

The Role No army can operate without a
line of supply, so as an Infantry Storeman
your role is essential in combat and
peacetime. From ammunition and food
to equipment and shelter, you keep the
front line stocked, armed and happy.
The Skills You will gain category C+E and
HGV driving licences, and get a logistics
qualification that is valid in civvy street.
OPPORTUNITIES
For more information about these specialist jobs, go to army.mod.uk/jobs
Infantry regiments recruit all over the UK, with some taking Soldiers from their local area and
others nationwide. You can get full details online, but here is a basic guide to get you started
YOUR GUIDE TO THE REGIMENTS AND REGIONS
GRENADIER GUARDS
Nationwide


COLDSTREAM GUARDS
Nationwide


SCOTS GUARDS
Nationwide


IRISH GUARDS
Nationwide


WELSH GUARDS
Nationwide



ROYAL REGIMENT
OF SCOTLAND
Scotland and London

PRINCESS OF WALESS
ROYAL REGIMENT
Channel Islands, IOW,
Hampshire, Kent, Sussex,
Middlesex and Surrey

ROYAL REGIMENT
OF FUSILIERS
London, Northumberland,
Warwickshire, Lancashire

ROYAL ANGLIAN
REGIMENT
East Anglia and
East Midlands


DUKE OF LANCASTERS
REGIMENT
Merseyside, Cumbria
and Lancashire

YORKSHIRE REGIMENT
Yorkshire and Teesside



THE ROYAL
WELSH
Wales


ROYAL IRISH
REGIMENT
Northern Ireland
and London


THE MERCIAN
REGIMENT
Worcestershire, Cheshire
Derbyshire, Merseyside
Nottinghamshire, West
Midlands and Staffordshire

PARACHUTE REGIMENT
Nationwide

ROYAL GURKHA RIFLES
Officers fromthe UK

THE RIFLES
London, South West,
Oxfordshire, Berkshire,
Herefordshire, South
Yorkshire, Durham
and Shrewsbury

MACHINE GUNNER
The Role All Soldiers learn basic weapon
skills when they join, but the job of
Machine Gunner sees you become an
expert. You will flank troops and provide
covering fire from vantage points.
The Skills You will be a weapon specialist,
able to fire everything from powerful
machine guns to grenade launchers.
LACESSIT
NEMO ME IMPUNE
The training unites
you everyone looks
out for each other
Corporal GarethGriffiths(Regular)
No civilian
workplace
can match the
camaraderie of
an Army battalion
IT SPECIALIST
The Role As a systems manager and
application specialist, you play a vital
part in maintaining the Armys high-end
comms technology and local area network.
The Skills Infantry IT Specialists give
commanders an up-to-date tactical picture
of the battlefield, in addition to ensuring
secure communication between troops.

BECOME AN INFANTRY OFFICER

Develop the skills to lead your team on the battlefield
INFANTRY PLATOON OFFICER
You will command a rifle platoon of
32 Soldiers within an Infantry battalion.
You will have the support of high-ranking
Soldiers, but the responsibility for
effectiveness in battle rests with you.
On top of this, you must take an active
interest in the welfare of your Soldiers,
and help develop their careers.
THE SKILLS YOU NEED
Your ability to lead and motivate the
troops under your command is critical.
Officers need the maturity and
responsibility necessary for a role in
which the wellbeing of Soldiers depends
on the outcome of your decisions.
OFFICER TRAINING
Potential Officers undergo a series of
tests to determine whether they have
the right skills. If successful, they attend
a 44-week Commissioning Course at
the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst
before going on to a 13-week Platoon
Commanders Battle Course.
WHAT I DO
What does your job involve?
I am a commander responsible
for a platoon of about 32 men.
Its high-pressure, and Im
still young, but I love it.
I dont like working with
equipment I joined the
Infantry to work with other,
like-minded people.
Whats different about
being a Gurkha Officer?
The regiment takes its Soldiers
from Nepal, but its Officers
come from the UK. After Officer
training at Sandhurst, I spent
10 weeks on a language course
in Nepal followed by four weeks
trekking. Its fascinating to learn
about new cultures, and to lead
a team across language barriers.
Name Lieutenant Alasdair
Colquhoun, 25
Job Officer in The Royal
Gurkha Rifles (Regular)
18 19
OPPORTUNITIES
MEDIC
The Role Trained in combat techniques,
you will be responsible for treating wounds
of all types, and could even lead a team
of other Medics and Doctors if you find
yourself in a large trauma situation.
The Skills Training for Medics is intensive
and thorough, and involves spending time
at NHS hospitals and doctors surgeries
to gain first-hand experience. Most
qualifications transfer into civvy street.
MORTAR OPERATOR

The Role Mortar platoons are the Infantrys
indirect fire specialists, and as a Mortar
Operator, your job is to provide the infantry
with its firepower. Specially trained Mortar
Fire Controllers identify enemy positions,
while Mortar Soldiers engage the target
from up to 6km away.
For more information about these specialist jobs, go to army.mod.uk/jobs
The Skills You must understand the
battlefield and know how combat works
for this job. You must also have the ability
to work in small teams for long periods.
Mortar Operators carry heavy weights and
are some of the Armys fittest Soldiers.
CLOSE RECONNAISSANCE
SOLDIER

The Role Close Reconnaissance Soldiers
are the Infantrys eyes and ears. You will be
responsible for gathering intelligence about
the enemy and data about their weapons.
This will be used by your commanding
officer to plan attacks and rescue missions.
The Skills As a Close Reconnaissance
Soldier you must be an all-rounder. You
need the self-discipline to maintain things
like camouflage, and must be able to work
in small, four-man teams in isolation. You
must also develop the mental strength to
concentrate for long periods of time.
Operational tours
are the ultimate
test of teamwork

Name: Private Robbie Arnott, 17

Job: Infantry Driver (Regular)
WHAT I DO
The job of Infantry Driver
combines two vital skills
advanced driving and
mechanical know-how
did you know...
Thanks to a newArmy scheme, the Infantry
nowpays for every Soldier to get his full
category B driving licence. This is a fantastic
opportunity because, according to The AAs
website, learning to drive in civvy street will
cost you in excess of
1000 if you pass
first time. As a new
recruit, you get a
provisional driving
licence and receive
coaching to prepare
you for taking the theory test, which you
will sit at the end of your combat course.
And when you finally join up with your
regiment you will be sent on an intensive
practical driving course, culminating in
your driving test. Theres even a chance to
get more training if you fail first time.
Name: Private Chris Dyer, 25
Job: Sniper (Regular)
Job notes
On operational offensives
I take out the enemy from long range,
clearing the route ahead for my troops. Or I could be
guarding villages from nearby buildings or forests,
often under the cover of night. I couldnt bear doing
a mundane nine-to-five job, or being cooped
up indoors, so being an Infantry Sniper is ideal.
What is your main job
on the battlefield?
My job is really two rolled
into one. Firstly, Im a
qualified Combat Driver
with a bunch of licences
paid for by the Army. Plus
Im an expert in vehicle
maintenance. Knowing
how to keep my vehicle
moving is crucial in battle. And being on
tour brings you on as a person, so I get
respect from my mates at home.
Why did you join the Infantry?
I left school at 16 without many GCSEs,
and my mates at the time were either
getting into drugs or doing boring
jobs. I joined to make a clean break.
I spent my first six months at Army college,
where I got A grades in maths and IT. Ive
gained more skills since as an Infantry
Driver. The Army basically helped me
finish off my schooling.
Still in further education and need support? Want someone to help with your fees and
guide you through your course? Ask a Careers Adviser about financial help
The Infantry spends millions making
sure its Soldiers are well-rounded
people equipped with skills and
qualifications valid in the civilian world
and the journey begins on day one.
Youll receive a basic education in
things like maths, IT and literacy
courses designed to help finish off
your school or college education. And all Soldiers
attend the 26-week Combat Infantryman Course.
Not only will this prepare you for life in the field, it
also lands you an NVQLevel 2 in Public Services.
If youre in full-time education and want to
join the Army, ask your Careers Adviser about
further education bursaries. You could
qualify for 1000 for every year of your
studies, plus 1000 on completion.
When you do finally join up with
your regiment, your options are almost
limitless. For a start, the Infantry offers
you a choice of five apprenticeships in
communications, engineering, security,
advanced driving and logistics. It also gives you
a yearly allowance of education vouchers, leaving
you free to pursue an interest or ambition. And
there are a number of management qualifications
on offer. They are recognised by civilian firms, and
the higher your rank the better the accreditation.
TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS
Visit army.mod.uk/jobs to see which specialist job suits you 20 21
OPPORTUNITIES
SNIPER
The Role For Snipers, being a crack shot is
only half the story. You will learn advanced
navigation and route selection skills, as well
as be taught how to disguise yourself and
remain hidden in the field. Your role is to
provide cover for advancing troops, and to
take out key enemy targets from hidden
locations and vantage points. You will also
learn undercover skills to avoid enemy
detection, and develop good battlefield
knowledge to keep one step ahead.
The Skills All Soldiers learn basic skills
in marksmanship, but as a Sniper you
enter another league of weapons expertise.
The training is some of the toughest the
Infantry offers, and many subsequently
apply for selection to the Special Forces.
SAS SOLDIER [RESERVES]
The Role If you show the right skills, you
will have the chance to join the United
Kingdom Special Forces (Reserve), which
comprises combat soldiers and support
staff. There are two SAS (Reserve) units,
plus the Special Boat Service (Reserve), and
MOVING ON UP
Signals Squadron supported by a pool of
staff Officers. Generally, you will support
Regular units, but you can also specialise in
surveillance and reconnaissance. Recruits
must be physically and mentally robust,
be very strong swimmers and should have
excellent eyesight.
The Skills To qualify as an SAS Soldier
(Reserve),you must pass the selection
course. This 18-month training and
assessment course has a wide curriculum
but concentrates on patrolling skills.
To get through it you must show extremely
high levels of determination, physical
fitness and complete commitment. Newly
qualified Soldiers will be expected to qualify
as static-line parachutists and take on a
communications course. Support staff must
also qualify in all of the appropriate skills.
All personnel will undertake 50 to 70 days
training a year.
OTHER ROLES ON OFFER
There are lots more jobs to choose from
in the Infantry, and most come with
qualifications recognised in the civilian
world. You can train to be a dog handler,
storeman, carpenter and many more. And
best of all, if you ever decide to leave, the
Army will help convert your qualifications
into ones valid in civvy street. Whatever
you want from your career theres a place
for you in the Infantry.
Just like RSM Harry French,
MBE, you can march right
to the top of Infantry

Accurate battle
data is vital, and
the guys rely on
me to get it right
LanceCorporal BrianOSullivan, 31
InfantrySignaller (Regular)
Name: Sergeant Lee Hornsby, 32
Job: Company Medic (Regular)
Job notes
As a Company Medic you
are responsible for the health up to 100 people. Its up to you to treat everything from simple wounds right up to serious injuries. In big casualty situations
I lead a team of other Medics and Doctors, helping
Soldiers and civilians alike. Its a big responsibility,
but it teaches you how to lead effectively. If I ever
leave I could easily cope in a civilian hospital.
Soldiers say they go on
tour as mates, but they
come home as brothers
LCpl OSullivan is the
link between commanders
and Soldiers in combat
I joined the Army at 17,
and have worked my
way up fromthe lowest
rank. I grew up on a council estate
with eight brothers and sisters, and
not much money. Like many kids,
I was clever but not that excited by
school and I didnt pass any exams.
Kids at school can get treated
badly if they come frompoor backgrounds.
You dont get that in the Army. Everyone is
treated equally, regardless of social status.
The Infantry recognised a spark in me.
They gave me a basic education during initial
training, and put me on a leadership course at
18. I came first in that class, and since then the
Army has helped me get right to the top.
In civilian jobs, you spend the whole time
trying to get noticed. In the Army, if youre a
good bloke who does the business and digs
deep when required, your rank and pay moves
steadily upwards. And they are good to those
with young families, especially when it comes
to giving you time off when you need it.
The Infantry worked out for me. I amnow
the Infantrys Regimental Sergeant Major, the
most senior Soldier in the Infantry. Ive also
got City & Guilds accreditation and a Masters
degree in Leadership & Management
and I have never even stepped foot
in a university or college!
22
NEXT STEPS
23
WHAT HAPPENS NOW?
With the Armys help,
Im aiming for gold in
the decathlon at the
next Olympic Games.
Which other employer
has such amazing
facilities and allows
you time off to train?
PrivateZicoBenjamin, 23
(Regular)
Ive picked up some
useful leadership
skills as a Territorial,
and added a bit of
variety to my life
LanceCorporal Chris Comley, 24
(Territorial)
Id hate to be cooped
up in an office or
doing a mundane
nine-to-five job, so
an Infantry career
is perfect for me
Lieutenant Alasdair Colquhoun, 25
(Regular)
To find out more about
joining the British Infantry,
talk to a Careers Adviser.
You can find your local
adviser by visiting
army.mod.uk/contactus
Call 0845 600 8080
Go to army.mod.uk/jobs
NEED MORE TIME?
If you havent decided whether to join the Army, or want
to return to full-time education with possible financial
sponsorship, tell your Candidate Support Manager
(recruiter) and they will stay in touch. In the meantime, why
not try an Insight Course to experience Army life first-hand?
DIDNT MAKE IT?
If you didnt meet the required standards, there may be an
opportunity for you to retake the tests. Your Candidate Support
Manager (recruiter) will let you know the areas you need to
work on, which means youll be better prepared next time.
1
Once you decide to join the
Army you can register
online, by phone or
face-to-face at a recruiting event.
This lets us check that you meet
the Armys entry conditions, such
as age, nationality and residency.
If you decide to join the
Territorials you may wish to visit
your local unit, to meet the
soldiers and learn more.
2
You will take some basic tests
and assessments to see which
area of the Army best suits you.
This will include an interview, and
willtake place at your local Army
Careers Centre. Your Careers Adviser
will then discuss the options available
to you. For those wishing to join
theTerritorials, your interview
couldtake place at your local
Territorial Unit.
3
Next, you will attend a two-day
course at an Assessment Centre,
where you will undergo fitness,
health and team tests to determine
your suitability for an Army career.
Depending on your choice of trade
you may be required to attend further
assessment. Ifyou decide to join the
Territorials, its exactly the same
selection process as the Regulars.
4
You will now be offered a place
on Phase 1 Training a course
designed to give you all the
skills a soldier needs. On the first
dayof training you will formally
enlistin the British Army. Phase 2
ofyour training will be with your
chosen Corps or Regiment. This
iswhen you will gain the specific
skills to start your job.
If youjoin as a Territorial then you
willreceive modular training either
inseparate units, or if you have the
time, a single consolidated package.
JOIN AS A SOLDIER
CONGRATULATIONS! FINAL TESTS CONSIDER YOUR OPTIONS INITIAL TESTS
These are the steps you will be taking on the way to a career in the British Army
W
hether you want to join the
British Army as a soldier or
officer, full time or in your
spare time, you can find out more either
online, by phone or face-to-face at an
Army Careers Centre. These soldiers and
officers have many years of experience in
the Army, will understand your concerns,
and are able to answer any questions you
or your parents may have.
In the meantime, these are your routes
to becoming a serving member of the
Army. Remember, once you have made
your decision to join, this isnt
a conveyor belt from which theres no
escape. If you want to return to your
studies and join later, or simply need
more time to make a decision, there are
opportunities before your training begins
to take time out and restart the process
at a later date, or to pull out altogether.
1
Once you decide to join the Army
you can register online, by phone
or face-to-face at a recruiting
event. This lets us check that you meet
the Armys entry conditions, such as
age, nationality and residency.
If you decide to join as a Territorial
you may wish to visit your local unit,
to meet the officers and learn more.
2
To assess your suitability for a
role as a British Army officer you
will be required to take some
basic tests online. You will also be
interviewed by a Senior Careers
Adviser, before attending a medical
and an Army Officer Selection Board
(AOSB) Briefing, which will help
prepare you for the AOSB Main Board.
3
If you are successful at the AOSB
Briefing, you will be put forward
to attend the AOSB Main Board.
Hereyou will undertake a series of
physicaland mental tests over a three-
dayperiod to seeif you are Army officer
material. For some roles you may be
required to attend further assessment. As
you decide whichCorps orRegiment you
wish to joinyou will be offered Officer
Familiarisation Visits to findout more.
If you decide to join the Territorials,
itsexactly the same selection process
asthe Regulars.
4
You have passed the AOSB
MainBoard and are invited
tojointhe Army for officer
training. You will be assigned a place
on a Commissioning Course (either
the Regular or Professionally Qualified
Officer (PQO) course) at RoyalMilitary
Academy Sandhurst andwill formally
enlist in the BritishArmy. Junior
officers will thenattend a role specific
course where they learn the skills
required to be an officer. All TA officers
will undergo TA training modules prior
to attending the TA Commissioning
Course at RMAS.
JOIN AS AN OFFICER
CONSIDER YOUR OPTIONS INITIAL TESTS ARMY OFFICER SELECTION CONGRATULATIONS!
The information in this brochure is correct at the time of going to press.
Please check with a Careers Adviser for latest details. gett
LIFE IN THE
INFANTRY IS ABOUT
BEING WHERE
THE ACTION IS.
ITS CHALLENGING
AND EXCITING
Call 0845 600 8080
Go to army.mod.uk/jobs
RG/BRO/116 March 2013
Produced for the Ministry of Defence by Army Recruiting and
Training Division Crown Copyright March 2013
The British Army
wholeheartedly supports
the principle of equality of
opportunity in employment.
We are opposed to all forms
of unlawful discrimination
on the grounds of race,
colour, ethnic background,
gender, marital status,
sexual orientation, disability,
religious belief or age. We
are committed, wherever
practicable, to recruiting
and maintaining a workforce
which broadly reflects the
UK population we serve. We
have a strict code of conduct
that ensures zero tolerance
of bullying, harassment,
discrimination and
victimisation on any grounds