Actemium UK Salutes Our Armed Forces Community

Here at Actemium UK, we understand and value the skills and benefits these individuals bring to our business from their military training, and we are currently in the process of signing the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC). The AFC is a pledge to support our employees within the Armed Forces community by becoming a forces friendly employer.

Featured below are the biographies of some of our Armed Forces community.

I have served in the Army Reserves for 10 years. I started in the University of London Officer Training Corps as an Officer Cadet whilst I was at university. Once I graduated, I transferred to the AGC as a HR Specialist, where I achieved the rank of Lance Corporal and was awarded best student on my leadership course. After 4 years in this position, I decided to do something different, and became a Communications Specialist in the Royal Logistics Corps.

During my time in the Army Reserves, I have had fantastic opportunities and travelled the world. The skills I have learnt have become invaluable to my civilian career.

I served for 22 years in The Royal Gloucestershire Hussars squadrons, which were part of the Royal Wessex Yeomanry. The Royal Wessex Yeomanry is part of the Royal Armoured Corps and was originally the reconnaissance regiment for the 43rd Wessex Brigade. Later we rerolled as replacement crews for Challenger 2 Main Battle Tanks. I started as a trooper and rose through the ranks becoming a Staff Sergeant Troop Leader. I qualified as a Signaller Class 1, CVRT Commander, AFV recognition Instructor and a gunnery instructor.

I joined the Royal Army Medical Services in 1988 and left after 25 years’ service reaching the rank of Warrant Officer, the highest group of non-commissioned ranks, and awarded the Queen’s warrant. I have served with a number of units and have been on the operational tours listed below. I also spent 6 months on exchange with the New Zealand Forces teaching at their Medical school for their Medical Technicians in Christchurch.

• 1st Gulf War (Royal Scots Dragoon Guards) – Pictured above in the back of an armoured ambulance
• Kosovo
• Bosnia
• Iraq
• Afghanistan (Royal Gurkha Regiment)
• Ambulance Strike

The UK Armed Forces are busy working around the world defending the UK and its interests. Showing support provides a much valued morale boost for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community and their families.

There are many ways for people, communities and organisations across the country to show their support and get involved. Find out more by visiting  armedforcesday.org.uk.