The Royal Marines Commando Reserves

A guide to opportunities

Introduction

Elite
Contents
Elite Commandos 2 Become a Commando Reservist 4 Specialist training 14 How to join 24 Life without limits 6 Commando training 8 On operations 20

Make the commitment 22

Your local Unit 26

When you earn your green beret and become a Royal Marines Commando, you are joining one of the worlds elite fighting forces.
As an elite Royal Marines Reserve (RMR) Commando, you will face some tough challenges and will need to be fit, determined and highly motivated. In return, you will get to go to places and do things that most people only dream of; you will meet an incredible group of people, and make the closest friends you have ever had.

The Royal Marines Commando Reserves are a highly trained, specialised team, which works alongside the Regular Royal Marines on land, at sea and in the air.
Do you have what it takes to be part of this elite team? If you want a real challenge in your spare time, use this brochure to find out more about the opportunities available in the RMR and how you can join.

Commandos
Training in the Royal Marines Reserve will push you to the limit both mentally and physically, especially as you have to balance training with your civilian life. The bonds forged with your new mates during training are unlike any others and it is this unique spirit of teamwork that gets guys through. I would definitely recommend it to anyone seeking the ultimate challenge in their spare time. Owen Balash, 19, Administrator

Royal Marines Reserves

2 3

Royal Marines Commando Reservist

The RMR are unique amphibious Commandos, providing support for the Regular Royal Marines anywhere in the world, from counter-terrorism to peacekeeping duties, on Commando operations or providing disaster relief.

What it means to be a Reservist

Royal Marines Reservists come from all walks of life, from students to labourers, and self-employed tradesmen to managing directors. Most have never had any military experience, although former Royal Marines, or those from other Services, are very warmly welcomed. All Royal Marines Reservists have to pass the same rigorous Commando tests as the Regular Royal Marines. This will make you part of an elite fighting force, trained and equipped to carry out operations in extremely hostile conditions from the Arctic to deep jungle, and from mountains to barren deserts, anywhere in the world. Not only that, but you will then be given the opportunity to specialise in an area of Commando training or warfare.

I joined the RMR to be deployed, for the challenge and to be the best. I really enjoy the social life out with the lads, and the best thing I have done is a week in Germany on adventure training.

Become a Comma
Basic requirements British, Irish and Commonwealth citizens may join the RMR. Nationality restrictions may apply for certain specialisations. Only men can serve in the RMR. You need to be between 16 and 32 years old, though in exceptional circumstances enlistment after the age of 32 may be authorised, and age limits do not apply to applicants with former Regular or Reserve service. All applicants under the age of 17 must have parental consent at the time of application. All applicants must be physically fit and able to meet the same entry standards as the Regular Royal Marines, which are explained later in this brochure.

mando Reservist
The Royal Marines Reserves (RMR) is an integral part of the UKs Armed Forces and now, more than ever before, is a Reserve for use ready, trained and capable of seamless integration into the Regular Corps on operations anywhere in the world.

Royal Marines Reserves

4 5

Are you up for it?

Life without limits

Being part of the RMR brings plenty of challenges physical and mental but also the opportunity to travel, serve your country and have some incredible experiences, with the best mates of your life.
Up for adventure?
There are opportunities to take part in activities that you may have only dreamed of. Diving expeditions in the Red Sea, ice climbing in Canada, sailing across the Atlantic with the Tall Ships Race, sport parachuting in America, downhill skiing, kayaking, and ascents of Everest, Mont Blanc, Annapurna and Mount McKinley in Alaska these are just some of the adventurous activities that Royal Marines Reservists have taken part in over the last few years. The RMR can offer time and funding for all ranks to participate in adventure training, which can take place all over the world ranging from major expeditions to trying something new that you have always wanted to do.

Opportunities to play sport

As a Reservist, you will be able to make use of a wide variety of excellent sports facilities for free. There are many sports clubs on offer, ranging from rugby to boxing, climbing to water polo, squash to cricket and many, many more. The list is long and keeps on growing. Ranks within RMR Units have regularly represented the Royal Marines at the Inter-Forces Championships in boxing, football, rugby, skiing and biathlon.

The most important thing is how much of a laugh it is. Yes, the trainings tough but its also a real laugh, and youll gain experiences that youll never forget. Matthew Doherty, 33, Commercial Director

See the world

You will have plenty of opportunity to travel in the RMR, as many of the training exercises take place abroad, in Norway, the Caribbean and Sierra Leone, for instance. And RMR personnel have recently served on operations in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. You will get the chance to see some unusual places and experience different cultures.

If you complete your minimum annual training commitment satisfactorily, you can also benefit from an annual tax-free lump sum (referred to as a bounty). This currently ranges from 395 in your first year up to 1,556 per year after five years.

Corps spirit
Being a Royal Marines Reservist is more than just something to do in your spare time. It is a commitment to being part of something incredibly special. You can be sure that no matter where you are or what you do, the men next to you will help you through. There will always be time to socialise, as Royal Marines not only work hard but play hard too!

Transferable skills
All Royal Marines Reservists are first and foremost Commandos, and earning the coveted green beret is a huge achievement in itself. In addition, whatever rank you are, you will gain strong organisational and leadership skills, an incredible self-confidence and greatly improved communication skills all qualities that employers find very appealing in an individual.

Get paid
Unlike most volunteer roles, once accepted into the RMR you will get paid for any training and work that you do.

I went to Norway last year for two weeks of mountain and cold weather warfare training. I also took part in the Royal Navy Skiing Championships in the French Alps and won the novices category, which meant winning a pair of skis! Dave Roberts, 38, Tree Surgeon

Royal Marines Reserves

6 7

Training

Commando training

Rise to the challenge

Throughout your training, your strength and determination will be tested and you will need to work as part of a team perhaps the most essential skill of any Royal Marine. When you complete your training, you will have been pushed to the limits of your endurance. You will have learned to fight and survive in the toughest conditions and will be more mature, more focused and more determined, fit and strong. Above all, you will be a Royal Marines Commando, entitled to wear the coveted green beret with pride.

Commando Reservists receive exactly the same rigorous, world-class training as their Regular counterparts, which means that they can serve alongside Regular Royal Marines to fill gaps and replace men with specialist skills.
Support
Commando training is tough it has to be. But we want you to succeed and if things ever become too much for you, there will be plenty of people on hand to give you help and advice. as it will put great demands on your spare time and dedication. In order to complete RMR Basic Training and prepare for the Commando Course, you will be required to attend training at your RMR Unit during evenings and weekends. In addition when not training with the RMR, you will have to work on your physical fitness in your own time.

Have you got what it takes?

RMR Basic Training and the Commando Course are not for the faint hearted. It requires real commitment and determination,

It is hard to put into words what earning the green beret means. It is so much more than just a beret; your whole personality and bearing changes the minute you put your beret on. The sense of pride and achievement is immense. To buy a green beret costs pounds, to earn one, well... thats priceless!

Did you know? Commando training is unique. It is one of the longest, toughest military training courses in the world. The Royal Marines are the only force in the UK to train both Officers and other ranks alongside each other, at the same place and to the same high standards.

RMR Basic Training

Basic Training for RMR recruits is divided into three parts:

Phase 1 Individual Skills Training

You must complete seven training weekends and one training evening a week over a period of at least six months, plus a two-week course at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM) in Lympstone, Devon.

Phase 2 Tactical Training and the Commando Course

You will be required to complete eight training weekends and one training evening a week over a period of about six months, plus the two-week Commando Course at CTCRM.

Marksmanship
Your marksmanship will be developed during basic training and tested under pressure during the Commando Course and Continuation Training. Cap comforters were worn originally by the first Commandos in World War II. Today they are worn while undertaking the gruelling Commando Course.

Continuation Training Advanced Tactics and Commando skills

This will involve two separate one-week courses.

Passing Phase 1 training made me feel I had got a step closer to where I want to be; it is challenging but enjoyable. Scott White, 17, student (new recruit)

Royal Marines Reserves

8 9

Training

Phase 1 training
Individual skills training
Phase 1 lasts for approximately six to eight months and is the beginning of RMR Basic Training. Here you will be trained in a variety of individual skills and fieldcraft. On completion of your Phase 1 training, you will be required to attend a two-week course at CTCRM.

Navigation
You will be taught how to read a map and use a compass, and to navigate yourself across all types of terrain by day and night.

Physical training
Physical training or Phys as it is known in the Corps will help you build on your own personal training to prepare you for the four Commando tests. The training is tough and you will need to be prepared to put the effort in, in your own time.

Weapon training
Your personal weapon will be the 5.56mm rifle; you will be instructed thoroughly in its use and how to maintain it. Do not worry if you have never handled a rifle before, during Phase 1 it will become second nature. You will also complete a live firing test.

Basic fieldcraft
You will be shown how to look after yourself in the field to stay healthy and fit to fight. You will learn how to construct different types of shelters (bivvies), and how to cook different types of ration pack, as well as the important art of camouflage and concealment.

Phase 1 Course at CTCRM

This two-week course at Lympstone, Devon, confirms what you have learned before you progress onto the next stage of training. You will gain an insight into the Commando tests and will complete Phase 1 recruit weapon training, camouflage and concealment, and a timed assault course assessment.

Passing the Phase 1 Course was the culmination of hard training and a personal achievement far beyond what I thought I was capable of when I first joined. Recruit Adams, 26, Occupational Health Nurse

Phase 2 training and the Commando Course

Phase 2 training
Phase 2 training lasts for about six months and is designed to equip you with the skills, tactics and knowledge required to act as a Rifleman in a Commando Unit. It also prepares you for the rigours of the Commando Course. At the end of your Phase 2 training, you will attend the two-week Commando Course. All physical training is now done carrying your rifle, weighing 4.6kg, and wearing your personal loadcarrying equipment. Throughout Phase 2 training, weight will be gradually added to this until it weighs the 10kg plus rifle required for the Commando Course.

Fieldcraft and tactics

The development of your individual and fieldcraft skills continues. Tactical instruction begins with basic patrolling techniques before moving onto reconnaissance patrols, observation posts, fighting patrols and ambushes.

Battle Preparation Training

Battle Preparation Training is designed to develop physical military skills, strength and endurance. You will be pushed beyond what you thought was your limit and realise that you can do more.

Royal Marines Reserves

10 11

Training

Commando Course
The two-week Commando Course at CTCRM is the culmination of your Basic Training. The course adds to your Commando skills and assesses whether your professional and physical abilities are of the standard required to be a Commando and wear the coveted green beret. During your course, you will complete the following: Helicopter drills you will learn how to operate tactically using helicopters, and practise underwater escape techniques. Cliff assault training you will learn how to climb, abseil and use other specialist roping techniques to conduct cliff assaults. Survival training you will be taught to survive off the land. These skills include building shelters, making fires, hunting techniques and water collection.

Commando Tests
These are all completed carrying your weapon and personal loadcarrying equipment. They consist of: 1. The endurance course running and crawling through two miles of tunnels, water pools, streams and bogs, before a four-mile run back to camp, all in less than 73 minutes. Finally, you have to pass a shooting test. 2. A nine-mile speed march (run/walk), done as a troop, which you have to complete in just 90 minutes. 3. The Tarzan assault course an aerial slide, ropes course, assault course and 30-foot wall, which you have to complete in only 13 minutes. 4. A 30-mile march across the rough countryside and hills of Dartmoor. You will have to work as a team to get to the end within the eight hours allowed.

Green beret
After you complete the 30-mile march across Dartmoor, it will be a proud moment when you finally receive the coveted green beret and become part of an elite fighting force, renowned and respected worldwide.

I knew if I could complete the Commando Course and earn my green beret I could handle any situation that civilian life could throw at me. Andy Martin, 35, Technical Sales Engineer (new recruit)

Continuation Training advanced tactics and amphibious skills

Continuation Training
Continuation Training will build on what you learned during your Commando Course, giving you the remaining skills and knowledge you will need to serve with the Royal Marines on exercise or operations. Continuation Training is normally conducted over a period of two weeks, usually divided into two separate week-long courses based at CTCRM. You will learn additional Commando skills and improve your operational capabilities during live firing and amphibious exercises and operations from the new Viking all-terrain vehicle.

Live Field Firing Exercise

You will take part in realistic live firing exercises using all the weapons you have been trained on plus a few more! You will develop your shooting skills through live firing troop attacks. You will quickly learn to trust the men around you and act responsibly and professionally in a realistic environment. In addition to firing small arms, you will throw live grenades, fire the machine guns and the under-slung grenade launcher.

Viking All-Terrain Vehicle

The Viking is the new Royal Marines armoured vehicle. You will be taught how to deploy tactically from this vehicle in simulated battle situations.

Further training and Specialist Qualification Training

On completion of your Continuation Training, you will be considered a fully trained Royal Marines Commando capable of serving with the Regular Corps on operations. You are now able to embark on further training, such as jungle or mountain and cold weather warfare training. In time, you will also have the opportunity to attend specialist courses and gain Specialist Qualifications such as Assault Engineer, Heavy Weapons or Reconnaissance Operator.

Amphibious Exercise
You will be taught how to operate from rigid raiding craft and landing craft during an amphibious exercise, in which Royal Marines conduct raids from the sea, a unique capability of Royal Marines Commandos.

Royal Marines Reserves

12 13

Specialist training

Specialist

The RMR has a good reputation, and is really closely aligned to the Regular Corps .We do the same training, have to pass the same physical tests and be of an equally high standard of fitness. Ed James, 27 Lance Corporal, General Duties

training
All Royal Marines are trained first and foremost as General Duties Marines before specialising in different roles, where any previous military experience may be taken into account. As a General Duties Rifleman, you will build up your Commando skills and have the chance to test them on exercises. You could serve with a Commando Unit deployed on operations anywhere in the world.

Royal Marines Reserves

14 15

Specialist training

Viking
The Viking all-terrain vehicle, designed and produced exclusively for the Royal Marines.

Depending on which Unit you are in, you can train in one of the following specialist areas.
Anti-Tanks
Tanks and armoured vehicles are the most powerful weapons in land warfare. As an Anti-Tank Specialist, you will be trained to identify enemy armour and vehicles and use the Javelin anti-tank missile system to destroy them.

Driver
Rapid deployment gives Commandos a tactical advantage in combat situations. As a Driver, you will be trained to operate a range of vehicles, such as customised Land Rovers, heavy support vehicles and the Viking armoured vehicle.

Assault Engineer
Assault Engineers are trained in construction, demolition, mine clearance and engineer reconnaissance. As an Assault Engineer you will build bridges, field defences and obstacles and become an explosives expert.

General Purpose Machine Gun Sustained Fire (GPMG SF)

This is a portable, tripod-mounted, fully automatic machine gun system, which delivers high rates of fire at long ranges, by day and night. Its roles are to protect troops in defensive positions and support troops during attacks. As a GPMG SF Specialist, you will become part of a two-man gun team controlled by a Gun Line Commander.

Drill Instructor
As a Drill Instructor, you will play an important part in turning raw recruits into fully trained Commandos. You will also be responsible for ceremonial drill during local and national events.

Heavy Machine Gun (HMG)

The HMG is a formidable weapon that can be either vehicle-mounted or man-portable. It is capable of engaging targets at up to 4.5km away. As a member of an HMG crew, you will be taught to handle and fire the weapon and the specialist tactics involved.

Landing Craft
Landing Craft Specialists are responsible for transporting Royal Marines Commandos from ship to shore. To carry out your tasks, you will be trained to drive small, highspeed raiding craft such as rigid raiders, inflatable raiding craft and the new offshore raiding craft.

Royal Marines Reserves

16 17

Specialist training

The proudest achievements of my life were getting the green beret and getting a superior pass on my landing craft course. I am now a coxswain on high-speed rigid raiding craft, inflatable raiding craft and the new offshore raiding craft which is great! Marine Piddington, 29, Dry Liner

Mortars
Mortars are an important part of the Royal Marines arsenal, enabling us to attack enemy forces from nearly 6km away. Mortarmen within the RMR are trained in a wide range of professional skills, learning to operate the mortars and accurately direct fire onto targets.

Signals
Signals Specialists provide communications to land, sea and air forces for Commandos in the field. You will be trained to operate a variety of radios.

Physical Training Instructor

Getting recruits fit and keeping Commandos in peak physical condition is the role of Physical Training Instructors. You will also train personnel in all kinds of skills, including unarmed combat, swimming, sports and adventurous training.

Skill At Arms Instructor

Skill At Arms Instructors (SAA) are experts in the weapon systems of the Royal Marines. You will be responsible for all training on small arms including weapon handling and marksmanship, vital skills for every Royal Marine.

Swimmer Canoeist
Swimmer Canoeists are members of the Special Boat Service (SBS), part of the UKs Special Forces. To join the SBS, you will have to pass the UK Special Forces Selection Course. You will then be trained to the highest standards in surveillance, reconnaissance, parachuting and survival skills.

Reconnaissance Operator
As a Reconnaissance Operator, you will be the unseen eyes and ears of a Commando Unit providing advanced knowledge of enemy numbers and positions. You will specialise in climbing and cliff assault techniques.

Sniper
You will be trained in map reading, observation and live firing and you will be tasked to fire on the enemy from long-range concealed positions. Snipers work in two-man teams, independent from the rest of a Unit for long periods of time. You will need to have keen eyesight and be able to perform well under pressure.

Tactical Air Control Party (TACP)

A TACP team has four members, including one Officer. The role of this very professional small team is to identify targets and direct fast jets to attack them using laser technology.

Officer specialisations
In addition to most of the Specialist Qualifications already listed, there are specific specialisations open to Officers only. The selection process for potential candidates is particularly stringent. Any applicant wishing to become an Officer in the RMR must first qualify as a Royal Marines Commando before they will be considered.

Landing Craft Officer

Landing Craft Officers are specialists in amphibious operations. You will be trained to plan and oversee beach assaults and raiding operations, command landing craft and supervise their maintenance.

Media Operations
The regular deployment of Royal Marines on operations and exercises worldwide attracts huge media interest. The very potent symbol of Commando forces appearing on foreign soil sends a message about the capability and intent of the UKs Armed Forces. It is vital that the media are properly looked after and given the correct information in a timely manner. You could become one of the specialists who carry out this important role.

Forward Air Controller

As a Forward Air Controller, you will be responsible for a small team that can work independently and covertly for a protracted period of time, and your leadership and soldiering skills must be well developed. Your role is to guide attack aircraft and fast jets to the correct target by providing descriptions and locations to the pilots using a range of communications equipment.

I joined the RMR to be deployed, to take on the challenges, and for the various skills I would learn. Since joining I have been on jungle training to Sierra Leone and trained as a specialist in sustained fire with general purpose machine guns. I love the social life and go out regularly with the lads. Matt Lyons, 36, self-employed

Royal Marines Reserves

18 19

On operations

On operations
It is almost inevitable that at some time during your service with the RMR that you will have to go on an operational tour. Recently, the RMR has seen active service alongside Regular Royal Marines in Bosnia, Kosovo, Sierra Leone, the Caribbean, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Sierra Leone 2000

We deployed into Sierra Leone to evacuate British nationals and secure populated areas from rebel fighters.

Afghanistan September 2006

I deployed to Afghanistan as a member of an Operational Mentoring Liaison Team. The purpose of this team is to integrate with the fledgling Afghan National Army, and provide them with assistance and guidance. We provide them with training to augment the basic military instruction they receive in Kabul. More often than not this is training on the job, i.e. while deployed in hostile areas such as the Helmand province. We also advise the Troop and Section Commanders on low-level tactics during live firefights with the Taleban.

ON OPS
Name Adam Palmer Reservist role Marine and rank Civilian Unemployed occupation

What were the highlights of your time on operations?

The highlight for me was seeing the joy in the faces of the locals when we cleared the rebels from the town. Overall it was a superb experience, with great banter and camaraderie in a stunning part of the world. At the end of the operation, we even managed to spend a day on the beach.

What qualities or skills did you need to do this?

Determination, fitness, courage; you need to understand where the local population is coming from and have a high level of field skills to operate in the jungle against people who were born there.

What were the most challenging things that happened?

The most challenging thing for me was when we were part of a screen force defending a vital road junction whilst constantly under the threat of infiltration from rebels. Our position was attacked and we had to defend ourselves by firing our 81mm mortars throughout the night and next day until the enemy withdrew.

Operation Telic, Iraq 2003 and 2005

My first experience in Iraq was as a junior noncommissioned Officer in the Heavy Machine Gun Troop of 42 Commando Royal Marines. I integrated fully into the Troop, taking part in operations on the Al-Faw peninsula, specifically in the Umm Qasr and Al-Basrah areas. In 2005, on Operation Telic 6, I was the Troop Commander and the Troops task was to provide force protection for the Royal Navy, which was providing training to the fledgling Iraqi Navy at a base near Umm Qasr. After a few weeks, we were also responsible for protection of vehicle convoys. This was the first time that the RMR had deployed under its own command structure rather than being integrated into separate parts of a Regular Unit, and I felt very fortunate to be the Commander. ON OPS
Name Paul Burnham Reservist role Commanding and rank Birmingham Detachment of RMR Merseyside, Captain Civilian Firefighter occupation (District Commander)

What qualities or skills did you need to do this?

Managerial and interpersonal skills, confidence and resilience, tactical awareness, communication and analytical skills, political awareness, delegation and administrative skills, assertiveness and flexibility.

What were the key achievements of your time on operations?

Having been in that area on Operation Telic two years before, one of the highlights was to see the progress that isnt reported in the press. The people have moved forward dramatically since 2003; schools were full and children were happy. Two key achievements were safely bringing back all of the Marines and Non-Commissioned Officers for whom I was responsible and recovering an unmanned US Navy aerial vehicle that had crashed on the Al-Faw peninsula.

ON OPS
Name Peter Roberts Reservist role Mortar Troop and rank Section Commander, Sergeant Civilian Building Services occupation Technician

What were the key achievements of your time on operations?

It is satisfying to see the difference, however small, that we are making on the ground, both in terms of improving the Afghan National Army, helping them to stand on their own feet and also improving the situation for the people of Afghanistan. I am also very pleased that all my hard years of training have come to fruition.

What qualities or skills did you need to do this?

Communication skills across all levels of rank are vital, particularly with the language barrier and the need to get the message across during a firefight. The ability to work alone, giving advice when under severe pressure; rapid decision making under severe pressure; knowledge of tactics and weapon systems; and a dark sense of humour!

What else do you feel about your experience on operations?

To know that all the hard work you do throughout training, keeping a high level of fitness and having a good sense of humour prepares you for whatever challenges life throws at you.

Was the experience what you were expecting?

Yes. The information given before I was mobilised and during the operational training package stood me in good stead and gave me an understanding of the situation in the Helmand province.

Royal Marines Reserves

20 21

Commitment

Make the commitment

As a Reservist, you play a crucial role in the defence and protection of the country. The RMR is very much a force for use, and all ranks have the opportunity to serve with the Regular Corps around the world, on exercise or operations.

To do this you have to be well trained. After your basic training is completed, you will need to maintain your skill. This means regularly attending mid-week training evenings and on average one weekends training a month. In addition, you will need to do at least a two-week continuous training course each year. If you complete your minimum training commitment satisfactorily, you can also benefit from an annual tax-free bounty, as explained on page 7. Deployments can vary from two weeks up to six months and provide RMR ranks with excellent scope to learn and develop new skills. These opportunities occur on a regular basis and are advertised within the RMR Units. You will have the opportunity to be mobilised once you have been fully trained, which means completing Phases 1 and 2 Training and Continuation Training.

I think the benefits that are brought back into the workplace are certainly demonstrated in terms of being a self-starter, working off ones own initiative, having an energetic approach, etc. I think it also demonstrates that theyre prepared to work as a team, which is a definite benefit to Sony. Niels Thomas, Sony

The NHS has traditionally supported the Reserves to quite a strong degree, and we make it work because, as an organisation, we need to be flexible to get people with the highest level of skills. And we feel that being a Reservist gives them enormous life experience and makes them a more rounded person, and that is what they bring back to the organisation. Anne Coutes, Director of Workforce, United Bristol Health Care Trust

Full-time opportunities
Regular opportunities arise to serve full time in the Regular Corps under a Full-Time Reserve Service contract. These roles will normally be for up to two years, but could be renewed for up to a maximum of six years and you will get paid the same as a Regular rank equivalent. These opportunities will be advertised by your Unit.

Supporting you and your employer

Supporting Britains Reservists and Employers (SaBRE) exists to provide information to employers about the benefits of employing Reservists, and provides support for employers and Reservists by offering information about their rights and commitments. It is important during times of operational deployment that you remain confident about your civilian employment, and understand the support and commitment that will be given to both you and your employer. SaBREs website (sabre.mod.uk) is well worth visiting. It offers advice on how to balance your commitments to the RMR and your civilian job. It explains how to get your employers support for your membership of the RMR, what happens if you are mobilised and your rights and responsibilities as a Reservist. You could also suggest to your employer that they visit the website. There is a whole section specifically designed for employers, including how they will receive compensation if you are mobilised.

I was deployed to Iraq for three months last year. We took over from the Regular Royal Marines and the role was to provide protection on the boats and on the roads for the Royal Navy. It was an amazing experience and a real learning one. Its very different from what you learn in training, because the stakes are so much higher. You come back feeling more confident in all the things we train for. Ed James, 27, Lance Corporal

Royal Marines Reserves

22 23

Joining

How to join

If you are interested in joining the RMR there are a number of ways for you to get in touch, and we have tried to make the recruitment process as easy and flexible as possible.
The selection process
If you decide to apply then you will go through the following selection process (though the order may vary slightly): Visit your nearest RMR Unit for a detailed briefing on the RMR (have a look at pages 2627 to see which is the Unit nearest to you). Complete the application forms. Attend a joining interview. Complete the recruitment tests the standard naval entrance tests of your English, maths and technical aptitude, which are a mixture of multiple choice and simple written answers. Complete the Pre-Joining Fitness Test a 2.4km run in 10 minutes 45 seconds. Attend a medical assessment. Attend an eyesight test. Security clearance process. Attend a selection/confirmation weekend to confirm that you have the determination and general aptitude to become a Royal Marines Commando.

Get in touch
Royal Marines Reserves Units hold regular briefings in the evening for those who are interested in joining. Times and dates will vary by local arrangement. To find out more, just phone your local Unit and go along and see what it is like for yourself. The phone numbers are listed on pages 2627.

Globe and Laurel

The cap badge of the Royal Marines has significant meaning: The Lion and the Crown is the distinguishing badge of a Royal Regiment. The Royal Marines Corps was awarded the title of Royal by King George III in 1802. The Globe was granted by King George IV in 1827 in place of the 109 battle honours which the Royal Marines earned. The Laurels were granted for the gallantry displayed by the Marines in the capture of Belle Isle in 1761. The Corps Motto, Per Mare Per Terram, By Sea, By Land, epitomises the Royal Marines ability to conduct amphibious expeditionary warfare anywhere in the world.

If you want more information or advice about joining the Royal Marines Reserves, you can contact us at any time. In addition, you can always look at our website (royalnavy.mod.uk), which has lots more detail about both the Royal Marines Reserves and the Regular Corps. Alternatively, you can visit your nearest Armed Forces Careers Office (the details will be listed in your local phone directory), and talk to one of our experienced Careers Advisers. Included in this brochure is an RMR DVD which will give you a deeper insight into what the RMR is really like. If you do not have a DVD, or would like another for a friend, then just call your nearest RMR Unit and they will send you one.

Royal Marines Reserves

24 25

Joining

Your local Unit

If you are up for the challenge of becoming a Royal Marines Reservist, or if you just want to find out more about us and meet some Commando Reservists, come along to your local Unit.
RMR Merseyside has detachments in: Liverpool
RMR Merseyside (HQ and Liverpool Detachment) Naval Regional HQ East Brunswick Dock Liverpool L3 4DZ Freephone: 0800 783 9529

Birmingham
RMR Merseyside (Birmingham Detachment) c/o HMS Forward 42 Tilton Road Birmingham B9 4PP Freephone: 0800 783 9529

Manchester
RMR Merseyside (Manchester Detachment) TA Centre 215 Upper Chorlton Road Manchester M16 0BH Freephone: 0800 783 9529

RMR Bristol has detachments in: Bristol

RMR Bristol (HQ and Bristol Detachment) Dorset House Littlefield Place Clifton Bristol BS8 3NA Tel: 01179 733523

Plymouth
RMR Bristol (Plymouth Detachment) Millbay TA Centre Citadel Road Plymouth PL1 3BQ Tel: 01179 733523

Poole
RMR Bristol (Poole Detachment) RM Poole Hamworthy Poole Dorset BH15 4NQ Tel: 01179 733523

Cardiff
RMR Bristol (Cardiff Detachment) TA Centre Morgan Street Cardiff CF10 4FG Tel: 01179 733523

Lympstone
RMR Bristol (Lympstone Detachment) Commando Training Centre Lympstone Devon EX8 5AR Tel: 01179 733523

Being a Royal Marines Reservist teaches you an awful lot about yourself. When youre out in the field and its absolutely freezing it tests your self-motivation. If people have got the motivation to do it, theyll get the green beret. Dave Roberts, 38, Tree Surgeon

RMR London has detachments in: London

RMR London (HQ and London Detachment) 2 Old Jamaica Road Bermondsey London SE16 4AN Tel: 020 7237 4331

Henley-on-Thames
RMR London (Henley Detachment) RFCA Centre Friday Street Henley-on-Thames Oxfordshire RG9 1AM Tel: 020 7237 4331

Chatham
RMR London (Chatham Detachment) Collingwood Block Khyber Road Chatham Kent ME4 4TT Tel: 020 7237 4331

Portsmouth
RMR London (Portsmouth Detachment) Building 185 HMS Excellent Whale Island Portsmouth Hampshire PO2 8ER Tel: 020 7237 4331

RMR Scotland has detachments in: Glasgow

RMR Scotland (Glasgow Detachment) 3751 Birkmyre Road Govan Glasgow G51 3JH Freephone: 0800 085 7179

Edinburgh
RMR Scotland (Edinburgh Detachment) HMS Caledonia Rosyth Fife KY11 2XH Freephone: 0800 085 7179

Aberdeen
RMR Scotland (Aberdeen Detachment) Gordon Barracks Bridge of Don Aberdeen AB23 8DB Freephone: 0800 085 7179

Greenock
RMR Scotland (Greenock Detachment) Navy Buildings Eldon Street Greenock PA16 7SL Freephone: 0800 085 7179

Inverness
RMR Scotland (Inverness Detachment) TA Unit Gordonville Road Inverness IV2 4SU Freephone: 0800 085 7179

RMR Tyne has detachments in: Newcastle

RMR Tyne (Newcastle Detachment) Anzio House Quay Side Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 1BU Freephone: 0800 032 5094

Dundee
RMR Scotland (Dundee Detachment) TA Centre Strathmore Avenue Dundee DD3 6SQ Freephone: 0800 085 7179

Leeds
RMR Tyne (Leeds Detachment) Ceres Division Carlton Barracks Carlton Gate Leeds LS7 1HE Freephone: 0800 032 5094

Royal Marines Reserves

26 27

The Royal Marines Commando Reserves

A guide to opportunities

How to apply
Contact us: Call your local RMR Unit (see pages 2627) and ask to attend a briefing. Visit your nearest Armed Forces Careers Office (AFCO) and go to the Royal Navy desk. If unsure which Unit/AFCO to call, then phone 08456 07 55 55.
Equal opportunities The Royal Navy is an equal opportunities employer. We seek to provide workplace conditions that are comfortable and non-threatening for all our people, whatever their gender, ethnic origin or sexual orientation. Our aim is the total elimination of sexual and racial harassment, and all forms of bullying. These issues need close attention and proactive management. Victims of any form of abuse are encouraged to report their difficulties and can be confident of sensitive treatment by those responsible for their care.

This publication is for guidance only. The facts in it may be changed without notice and must not be taken to imply any contract. Details of length of service will be explained in the Armed Forces Careers Office and will be contained in the contract. L2/RMR