NATIONAL SERVICE 1949 TO 1963 UNITED KINGDOM CONSCRIPTION

[@ronaldfitzsimmons9902]

I was to young for National service, but joined as a regular and Ended up doing over thirty years one thing the recruitment Sgt said was if you wish to join the Army Remember this, the Army is not a job its a way of Life and a way of thinking he took me too the window in the Career centre and said see that Man over there driving that Taxi that's a job , see that Man sweeping up that's a job and you can pack up and quit any time However once you sign up you will not be in any position to do that " Got it Son " best Advice i was given on joining the Army. When i retired from the Army i was in the Regimental reunion i was surprised how many of the National service Men would say to me Ronnie the best years of my Life i would do it all again, i being a Volunteer have total respect for the National service Man. They had no option and on the whole did a really good job. Gentleman I salute you all. .

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Ronald for your service and some interesting life pointers. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@jiffers5191]

Thanks for an interesting video which brought 🎉back memories of the time I did National Service.There can't be many of us left alive now. I served in the Royal Engineers, mainly in Germany, and enjoyed my time there. Looking back, I felt it helped me to mature, certainly didn't do me any harm.

[@ronaldfitzsimmons9902]

@@jiffers5191 yes that's what I hear from a lot of ex National service Men , Respect to all of you I could volunteer which I did but for you Men it was not an option.

[@Signals927]

Best thing since sliced bread and it would shake up the youth of today. I did my National Service 1955 to 1957 Royal Signals, after basic training at Catterick I was then sent to Ripon for motorcycle and driver training. My posting on completion was Kenya and I had a great time while I was there. After finishing my service I was back home and funny enough it took me a little time to settle down to civilian life again. I believe the experience did me a lot of good and made me appreciate life more.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

You sure had some good postings. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@d.d.4703]

My father also did national service in Royal Signals.

[@johnbowe6574]

I was called up in 1956 at the age of 21,and I sign on for an extra year and I loved it

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you John. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@bangkokney8708]

As loathe as I am to say it...'would it hurt the youth of today to go through National Service?' Character building is what we used to call being in 'The Mob' back in the day, although I doubt the majority of today's generations would see it that way! Thanks Chris, I really enjoyed this one, it brought back some long-forgotten memories!

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Glad you enjoyed the film. Very Best Regards. Chris.

[@barrysmith1651]

It would hurt them , stop stupid militaristic talk

[@tomasstride9590]

Well would you want to die in battle for the glory of Kier Starmer? May be just wait a couple of year and then you might be able to sacrifice two years of your life on the will of Kemi Badenoch. Don’t get me wrong, I understand the bravery and dedication of those who participated. I just think that men are just made fools of and conscripted to sacrifice in the interests of others. Remember duty and dedication are only for the common man, luxury and rewards are what the others get.

[@Pugggle]

​@@barrysmith1651wow

[@KBJ58]

The Army is a very much more professional organisation than it was 50 years ago. The last thing they need is truculent cannon-fodder, which is unfortunately all they would get. The modern Army has neither the facilities, nor the inclination to take on the entitled, spoiled, soft, current generation. Quite apart from anything else, they don't have enough space in military prisons.

[@kevinlatham5661]

Conscripted 1971 into the Australian Army for the American Vietnam war. We were never abused, assaulted threatened or humiliated. The platoon sergeant said that you followed orders, did exactly what you were trained to do, when you were to do it because in combat you may get away with slackening off but your mate next to you would pay with his life.All 50 of us , all conscripts, marched out.

[@derin111]

Yeah…”young men marched out” for what? To go to some far off foreign land to kill men and women, who they know little to nothing about and to risk being killed themselves….and all against their own free will. No disrespect to you but you WERE “abused”. You were abused from the second you were made to join the Army. That was in itself the greatest abuse!

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Very interesting Kevin. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@hazchemel]

That's an usually happy story :)

[@robertnoble3768]

if had call up today maybe we’d have better young uns

[@cassandrade-wolfe6926]

I really enjoyed this video. Ive just shared it with my children...👍

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Many thanks Cassandra very glad it was of interest. Chris.

[@cassandrade-wolfe6926]

@GULLPERCHFLYER I wanted them to see how things used to be...not quite as easy as today.

[@simongee8928]

During National Service, the head of the Army remarked 'We have eighteen months to teach these lads what their parents should have taught them in the last eighteen years'.😮

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

How true that must have been Simon. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@JodelFlyer]

Good one Chris. Dad did his National Service with the Royal Artillery. He did tell me a lot about his time in Greenwich but shame I can’t ask him more questions now.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Tim, my dad served in the 13th/18th Hussars and travelled across Europe in 1945 to liberate Bremen in his Sherman Firefly, sadly he suffered from his experience and passed away when I was 9 years he was only 40 years himself. Chris.

[@gerrydepp8164]

I was in the Cadets in Blandford at 11 in 1970 and I loved it; what boy does not love to shoot? I even learned to dismantle and shoot a Bren gun which I was told I was ordinarily too young for. Un/fortunately we moved overseas shortly after or I would almost certainly have become a soldier. This takes me right back - I loved the camradery and would happily be back there - when Britain was great. Thanks Chris.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Gerry do check out my channel please. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@kevchilton908]

Very enjoyable video, Chris. You certainly uncover some nostalgic footage. Keep them coming 👌🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Kevin. Chris.

[@davemitchell9941]

Thanks for a well presented view of the N. S. My ol dad did his 1950-52 in the RAF. He learnt self discipline & he always kept himself smart. Taught me how to tie a Windsor knot lol. Didn’t do him any harm at all. Jankers in the form of scraping wood toilet seats with a razor blade was just one of many punishments. The ol corporals were tyrants but firm n fair. One chap in barracks wouldn’t wash & smelt so after several warnings the lads stripped him chucked him in an old tin bath n scrubbed him with brushes n carbolic soap. Another jack the lad who tried the patience of the nco’s once too often was sent to Colchester for 6weeks & funnily enough came back a changed man, obedient & willing to lay down his life for his country. Oh how we need this now, no discipline, no fight & no work ethic!!

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Interesting times Dave do please check out my other channel films. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@christopherhinton6456]

they should bring back national service.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Last government nearly did. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@Tourist1967]

Why? A waste of money and resources.

[@patricksmodels]

I did my compulsory military service in Italy in 1997/98. It was a great experience. I was an infantry drill corporal. In Italy compulsory military service was suspended in 2004 and I consider this a great mistake.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Many thanks Patrick interesting to hear from Italy. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@Phaaschh]

Chris, this is a classic! Listening to Brian Sewell describing the "absolute beastliness" of National Service is priceless. Like you, I was fortunate enough to avoid NS, but as a cadet in the 70s, got to experience the sight, sounds and smell of various Nissen Huts, at places like Penhale, Nesscliff and even Brize (its a long story). Im glad I did, as it really helps to understand the story (and the inevitable humiliations) part and parcel to NS. Incidentally, the comedy series "Get Some In" is probably the most authentic way to vicariously experience NS, at least from the RAF's point of view. They're nearly all of them on KZbin.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Mark, Get Some In a classic with Tony Selby. Chris.

[@sidm3300]

The only part of my uniform that fitted was the tie. The rest was like two French cities, Toulon and Toulouse.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Sid that is most interesting. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@skylongskylong1982]

What most of the U.K. do not know is that up to the late 1990s , there were only two countries in Europe that did not have National Service/ Conscription. Republic Of Ireland, and United Kingdom. So if you go anywhere in Europe and see men aged in their fifties, there is 99% chance they did National Service in their Country.

[@menelise]

Up until the late 1990s? No, Belgium ended national service (dienstplicht) on 8 January 1993.

[@brianneedham9710]

I don’t like to see a ‘pressed’ man but can see that instilling a bit of discipline into our youngsters might be beneficial. They might learn a bit about team work and putting others before themselves!

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Good point Brian. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@nigelhamilton815]

When I first started work many of the lads had done national service. They were absolutely world class at making an hours work last all day. Lol. 😆😆

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

How very interesting Nigel. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@johnallen7807]

Many (including me) would say we need it now more than ever!

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

We need something that's for sure. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@MrDaiseymay]

@@GULLPERCHFLYER BORSTALS, RUN BY EX MILITARY.

[@kenmckean]

I could not agree more !

[@janebruce6625]

Question is who would you send to national service migrants or British men ?

[@johnallen7807]

@@janebruce6625 Easy, British men and women. Being "British" is a privelige which carries responsibilities as well as rights.

[@dondouglass6415]

Fascinating...

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Don. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@johndavey72]

Blimey Chris . You really hit the jackpot with this one ! Like most comments made , l agree that some form of national service would be a good thing . I had a stinker of a RSM . It was my father . God , he was a tyrant ! Cheers Chris 😊

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks John I had met quite a few RAF conscripts who served at RAF Hope Cove. Chris.

[@chriswasniowski3149]

not if your gay

[@johnwhitehead1305]

Carry on Sergeant and Get some in gave us an amusing insight but the reality must have been very different, respect to all yesterdays men for their service to our country and defence.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks John the whole concept I found very interesting, do please check out my other channel films. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@Corky341]

Get Some In, my favourite TV by a mile. (I've watched it countless times on KZbin). I would have volunteered before getting called up. I did in fact join the Army in 1978 aged 16 1/2. My basic was much like NS must have been like. 30 new blokes from all over the country and all walks of life all in the same boat. I enjoyed Basic Traing, i think, more than the rest of my 23 year career.

[@ericsenior2845]

I Joined in Sept 1964 as a apprentice Technician located at Arborfield at the Army Apprentice school later to be called the Apprentice college. Interesting that a number of photos shown where taken at the Apprentice school , Although in 1964 we did not have the REME cap badge then as that was given to us in the rebadging parade some 6-9 months later. Memories

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Eric, really appreciate you taking the time to post up your feedback. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@BrianPatrick-s6b]

Still in a country having national service absolutely hated it while in it but you never forgot years later....cramming in university for finals no sleep tired hungry thirsty...no problem...caught in s storm no shelter all wet no sweat...in a job with a nutty screaming boss ....no sweat not worse than the drill sergeant...locked down during covid ...think of it as as confinement in camp....

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Brian do have a ponder about subscribing to my channel. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@tropmaj]

Very interesting, amusing that if you spoke like Brian Sewell, had a violin and went to public school, regardless of any apptitude, you trained to be an officer!

[@philhawley1219]

Not necessarily. My dad declined the opportunity to be commissioned.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Funny old times do please ponder subscribing to my channel. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Phil friends of mine signed up to the regular army to gain better pay to be one step ahead of national service pay rates. Chris.

[@roydavidlivermore4664]

When I was in ,in the early 1950s ,unless your father was a Bank manager or similar,one stood no chance of being selected for officer training.

[@andypandy9013]

This from a very good article on Wikipedia: "National Service ended gradually from 1957. It was decided that those born on or after 1 October 1939 would not be required, but conscription continued for those born earlier whose call-up had been delayed for any reason. In November 1960 the last conscripted men entered service, as call-ups formally ended on 31 December 1960, and the last conscripted servicemen left the armed forces in May 1963." In other words the last National Serviceman would have been 21 when called up in 1960 and will now 85 if they are still alive. So if anyone under the age of 85 tells you what a great thing National Service was you can reply that they didn't experience it so how could they possibly know from first hand experience. 🙂

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Andy I have met many ex national servicemen they all had a variety of experiences to relay. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@JimSherry-b5u]

Your Spot On Andy...Cheers from a Old Sweat...1960/1963...

[@andypandy9013]

@@JimSherry-b5u My absolute pleasure. 😃

[@simoncampbell3144]

Bit of track bashing , didnt quite prepare you for throwing a track back onto the tank , now thats an art

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Heavy old bits of metal to lift around Simon. Chris.

[@Rkolb2798]

Could you imagine the children of today having to serve , good luck

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Hmm the last government were going to have a go. Chris.

[@stantheman9976]

The children of today are serving in the armed forces. Didn't see any pensioners on the front line in Afghanistan or trooping the colour.

[@Rkolb2798]

@ as volunteers though, the video was about Conscription 😊

[@roydavidlivermore4664]

@@stantheman9976Quite a large number ,we’re in the Korean War,it was made up of two thirds NS men!

[@Parawingdelta2]

I was far too young for national service in the UK but emigrated to Australia in 1970 at the age of nineteen, where shortly after my arrival, I had to register for national service. This, of course, was the result of the war in Vietnam. I wasn't particularly worried and actually enlisted in what was then known as the Citizens Military Forces (CMF) later merging with the Army Reserve. I was asked if I wanted to serve for six years as an alternative to being 'called up' and serving two. I declined and just went through what essentially was a lottery, where if your birthday came up in the 'raffle', you were enlisted as a national serviceman. My number didn't come up and I remained in the CMF for a couple of years. Didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Appreciate your interesting feedback. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@mikequinn6206]

An Australian Regular Army General, who served during the Vietnam war era, was recently interviewed on radio by a well known former National Serviceman who had, himself, seen service in Vietnam. Amazingly, the General stated that, when he inspected a particular group, he could not tell the difference between Regular Army soldiers and National Servicemen.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Very interesting Mike. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@2862WU]

Having completed his apprenticeship as a carpenter and joiner my father started National Service aged 21 in 1952 with the West Yorkshire Regiment. After basic training he was transferred to the East Yorkshire Regiment and sent to Malaya in 1953 for a year and a half as part of the force combatting the communist insurgency. He always said that the day he got back home to see his parents and sister was the happiest day of his life. I have his diaries and though they don't tell us a lot they do reveal that he was demobbed at five minutes to ten on 19 August 1954. I think it would be fair to say that whilst it was a bit of an adventure dad wasn't kidding when he said he hated the army and considered it two years of his life wasted. I was told that before the Army he was a quiet lad who generally did as he was told. After the Army he respected no authority other than his own, never wore green, and never called anyone sir. He went back to Penang and Singapore to celebrate his 25th wedding anniversary in 1982 and visited Thailand in 1987 when my sister worked at the British Embassy. Dad was struck with Motor Neurone Disease at age 63. Ironically the local GP was a former Army doctor and member of "the officer class". In between insulting each other dad and the GP got on very well. Dad died aged 65 in 1996 and his medal and cap badges are on display in my home. If you haven't come across it then there is a book called National Service by Richard Vinen that came out a few years ago and explores the real reasons it was introduced. There are some amusing anecdotes and so I will finish with the bloke who was asked what National Service did for him. He gave it some thought then answered "it made a man out of me" before going on to add "but not a particularly pleasant man."

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Many thanks for your very interesting feedback. Chris. Do please consider subscribing to my channel. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@charlesfrancis6894]

How many Muslims would join if the war was to be fought against a Muslim country and what would be the punishment for not joining during a compulsory National Service today. Lets assume there was no punishment this would encourage all people not to fight what could be considered an unpopular war as in Blaire's time. This would make the elite who rule us feel their elitist system of rule was in danger and I feel the punishment would be introduced . The same applies to more and more people not voting if this continues the rulers will for certain make voting compulsory as some countries have done .Voting has nothing to do with the people being participants in a so called democracy but more to do with the elusion of a democracy and the ruling elite to say their actions are done in the name of the people.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Charles for your interesting feedback. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@Raymondmcilvenny]

Just cut all benefits and ther will be no Muslim in the UK. Sorted

[@NewMinority]

There all running from their own national service

[@simoncampbell3144]

Quick question for you , how many Muslims fought for the allies ( that's our side , thought you would need that explanation for your tiny brain) in the second World War?

[@simoncampbell3144]

It's easy mate 5 and a half million is the answer , and your problem is ?

[@john07973]

Very good 👍🏻

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks John. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@RaeMcmullen]

Bring it back .

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Recent government talked about that. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@andyb.1026]

How many stayed on in the Regular Foorces ? I knew a few 😮

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Not many I guess. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@alanpearson7554]

I joined in 1970, there were a lot of senior NCOs who had originally been called up. One incentive was pay, a 3 year enlistment paid significantly more than a 2 year conscript and many changed during their service. My father enlisted during his national service and eventually served for 15 years. My first platoon sergeant as a regular was originally a conscript, he was a right bastard.

[@ronaldmartin7892]

Nice video. It took me back to my two years 1952 to1954. Oswestry, Rhyl then to Germany and the 2 Regiment Royal Horse Artillery. I'm sure it did me a power of good. Coming from London we knew what hardship meant so for me it was not too difficult. Some were reduced to tears. I came out as a Bombardier and they tried to persuade me to sign on with a promise of promotion. If my father had not died in 1953 leaving my mother alone I might have accepted it. Who knows the outcome? I've now lived in Thailand for forty years. I think I'm getting used to it.😉

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Interesting Ronald many thanks. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@WeAreTheUnhappyMajority]

Did I hear that bloke right, the bullying started at basic training? You mean you had to listen to someone giving you orders.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

You have a point there. Chris.

[@patricknewall5634]

Why At 6:05 are you showing a clip of a German officer, were they training our lads during that time?

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

No sorry Patrick my mistake I was looking for an image of young lads going for a medical. Chris.

[@drummerboy1390]

Isn’t this an existing documentary that you’ve simply uploaded? You sound like you made the documentary.

[@anthonymichaelwilson8401]

National service could help our young 😊

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you for taking the time to comment. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@edpzz]

Total respect to the guys who served in Combat , however National service just taught a whole generation how to skive when the Cpl was not watching you , we have a Army today for warfare not welfare

[@roydavidlivermore4664]

National servicemen and regulars did exactly the same training and jobs and in the Army in particular ,training was very hard .In the early 1950s we had one poor chap who found it all too much,and sadly took his own life.I would also mention that two thirds of the soldiers in the Korean War were NS,and almost 400 were KIA.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Good point Ed. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@ijg4427]

I was conscripted 1951 -1953 when I was 18 . those who agreed to 3 years received extra pay

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Better pay was tempting. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@roydavidlivermore4664]

Yes it was a sore point ,as National servicemen did the same training and same jobs as regulars and received far less pay.

[@michenorman7347]

Drill- it dates from the time that men would wear highly visible uniforms and would be marched forward in suicidal attacks. It has not place in a modern army.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Interesting many thanks. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@JohnVilla1960]

It seems that the vast majority were conscripted into the Army and RAF. Was there a different criteria for the Royal Navy?

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

The Royal Navy may not benefit from mandatory national service in the UK because the RN needs skilled and experienced sailors who are committed to staying in for at least five years. A conscript who only serves for a year or two would be unlikely to contribute much and could be a burden on the service. Chris.

[@philipnorris6542]

There were, I think, a few conscripts in the Navy, though not as many as in the other two services.

[@ronaldstrange8981]

Did 2 years in the Royal Air Force. Rose to the dizzy rank of Senior Aircarftman acting Corporal paid. Didn't do me any harm. November, 2024.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Ronald. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@edbaker515]

In today's Briton, it's all about social security, not national security

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Social not what it used to be. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@normanedwards7220]

I have no doubt that not all eligible people of that age group got called up for national service , the rich and privileged would have found reasons why their sons could not go ,

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

I guess money would enable an officer position. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@MrDaiseymay]

THANKS, I SEE WHAT I MISSED. BY 3 MONTHS. MY OLDER BROTHER WAS TO BE CALLED UP, BUT BECAUSE HE VOLUNTEERED FIRST, HE GOT A CHOICE OF REGIMENTS, AND WAS ABLE TO ACHEIVE HIS AMBITION, TO JOIN THE 'ROYAL CORP OF TRANSPORT, AND ENDED UP IN EUROPE. HE WAS ABLE TO VISIT MOST OF EUROPES CAPITALS, DIDNT GET POSTED TO TROUBLE SPOTS ABROAD, AND HE ENDED UP CHAUFFEURING OFFICER'S IN POSH CARS. HE HAD A VERY GOOD EXPERIENCE, AND i ENVIED HIM, ( NOW AND THEN ).

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

I had friends who signed up before conscripted, they got better pay and better uniforms. Chris.

[@Kevin-mx1vi]

My dad did his National Service from 1948 - 1950 as a tank driver in the Queen's Own Hussars.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Kevin appreciate your feedback. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@petercarter9034]

An interesting topic

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thankyou Peter. Chris.

[@ianbell5611]

Very Good

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Many thanks Ian. Chris.

[@daffyduk77]

Thank God I "missed out". My Dad said he wouldn't wish it on anyone. Even though it got him to Egypt & Palestine, with temporary leave in Mesopotamia (Iraq).

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you for watching along. Chris.

[@jamesavenell2368]

I was personally deferred until 1960 relating to apprenticeship. As it happened I was close to 22 when I was eventually summoned. Six weeks training at Blandford Forum & just prior to me turning in, the IRA had performed a raid there in acquiring armaments. Doing a night time guard there I made sure I was difficult to anticipate my next appearance in open territory. I was not deemed to be dying in that mans army The rest of my particular tour saw me on Benbecula, off the west coast of Scotland with a minor visit to St Kilda, the furthest home posting west. It was by way of punishment, but that would be another story for yer earoles. Lol. I'm older now & don't believe any other bugger has the right in ordering any body else about. Politicians etc are a bloody mafia who certainly do not have any authority from our creator in assuming they have that privilege. We are here as individuals to live our lives to our own discretion. we live & die on that principle.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Really appreciate your thoughtful feedback James. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@DuncanMcCreadie-bw5hv]

Served with ‘The Colours’ from 1960 following 3-years army apprentice college and subsequently spent time alongside national service men home and overseas on emergencies. Can’t say anything derogatory about them with a number obviously being swayed by military life there upon signed on and seeing them on active service most were more a credit to the uniform than some regulars.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Duncan. Chris.

[@flaneurable]

I was called to one of the toughest units. It was the Army Catering Corps.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks for that handy to learn to cook. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@DavidJohnson-rj8zu]

Why is the picture 6:05 chap writing in a notebook a German soldier you can tell by the ruins on his collar and white etching on shoulder applets plus uniform jacket style, not a good example of time in question post war.🧐

[@garlicandchilipreppers8533]

I noticed that one writing had German epaulette.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you for pointing that out I was looking for a photograph which showed men lining up for a medical, my mistake. Chris.

[@michaelcarter3161]

Not to worry about that; you can't always get the perfect picture to illustrate your narrative. Some people get gratification from pointing out minor inconsistencies.

[@williamwilson4162]

We keep hearing how ethnics have been here for a long time, so how come they were exempt from conscription.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

While Black and Asian British men were not officially excluded from National Service, they were in practice underrepresented due to racist attitudes. The Army authorities did not want to recruit large numbers of Black and Asian British men due to prevailing racist attitudes at the time.

[@indigohammer5732]

My Dad got called up and although narrowly missed Suez, did get sent to Cyprus during "The Emergency". He joined an English Regiment so he wouldn't have to wear the Kilt (impractical, useless and uncomfortable item). The Government borrowed him for a couple of years, brutalized him, then shat him out. He learnt two important things: Don't volunteer for anything and don't beat people over the head with a loaded L1A1 rifle.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you for your interesting feedback. Chris.

[@johnbrigg1776]

I was called up (Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry) in 1954. You are wrong about uniform and equipment. Regulars, I.e. those signing on voluntarily via a Recruiting Office could choose the regiment they wished to join for 3 years or more, and had to report on the same day as NS recruits and, apart from pay rates, were treated exactly the same, uniform, equipment, training etc. and were out numbered by, from memory, about ten to one. There was no way of telling regulars from NS. In other words NS men were fully enlisted soldiers with the rights and obligation that entailed. When issued with battle dress, 2 suits, on the first day, the storemen took great care to match blouses and trousers as there were very slight variations in colour which only showed up when put together. They were also taken to the tailors shop and altered to fit better, including gathering the pleats on each side of the blouse waistband into one to make a smoothie and smarter look.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Well John many thanks for that, I have met many RAF National Servicemen and they often remarked on the uniform, particular the great coat which when wet was difficult to dry out. Please have a subscribe. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@johnbrigg1776]

You miss my point. Greatcoats issued to NS men were standard issue, along with everything else, to everyone regardless if they had been enlisted for two years or twenty two.

[@michaellewis4614]

😊

[@williambefort5327]

The US military draft, in force from 1940 through 1973 with a brief break post-WW2. accustomed Americans to the idea of a period of soldiering for most young men. The conditions of service were much like those shown in this British video. Considering the permissive conditions of upbringing and indifferent standards of education prevailing in the US, it was probably generally beneficial to those who went through it, not only preparing them for the realities of adult life but providing them with a broader knowledge of other Americans their age and some acquaintance with the world outside the USA. But reinstating it today would probably be a trainwreck.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Appreciate your thoughtful feedback William. Chris.

[@deadandburied7626]

"Public school boys didn't think twice about taking all their clothes off" 😂

[@alecbell5453]

Did it 1955-1957. Posted to Malta. Needed by the country again.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Alec be great if you subscribe to my channel. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@andyb.1026]

I joined the RAF as a 17 yo, there was an option to leave with no penalty after about 14 days, a few mummy's boys left, no loss. I stayed 10 years and soaked up knowledge that kept me in well paid, interesting & enjoyable employment 😂😅 . Not to mention the travel and sports opportunities.. Life is what you make it 😂😅

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Interesting Andy. Best Regards Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@dragonbreath65]

Should bring it back .

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

The previous government planned to do just that. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@dragonbreath65]

@GULLPERCHFLYER this government don't know there arse from there mouth talking .....t 😜🤣🤣

[@garybrindle6715]

Regulars like myself in my 22 years RAF service had no time to chase reluctant others who would have been drafted. And its wrong to say it teaches you self discipline its got one aim, its to get you to be obedient and react quickly to orders. As a career it was fine with a lot of adventure activities outside your work which in peacetime gives you skills and confidence.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Gary for your very interesting feedback. Chris.

[@williamsoens9973]

Why did they have an actor who looked every minutes of 40 years of age as a young national serviceman ? We were mostly 18 and looked it.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Appreciate your feedback William, do please check out my channel. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@timothyseabrook1584]

I volunteered to join the REME in 1977 to get a trade in Avionics becsuse I couldn’t afford to pay for university I got my trade training and got paid for doing it I also learnt sbout soldiering. I was still working as an avionics Engineer in 2004 when I had a major stroke the NHS refuse to give me any treatment making me too disabled to eork I was on benefits from then until I received my state pension at the sge of 66. if yhe government want to get people off disability benefits they need to reform the NHS so they actually treat people because there’.s no point of free care at yhe point of issue if there is no actual point of issue everybody would be better off getting private health insurance as a back up to the useless NhS! but when getting iit read the small print for the excess snd exclusions

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Very sorry to hear about your stroke Timothy. Best Regards Chris.

[@RickyParker-lt8ug]

Best thing ever made you man

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Quite right Ricky. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@janlindtner305]

👍👍👍

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Jan. Chris.

[@mebeasensei]

Did everybody have to do it? i never heard of the Beatles doing it.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

There were various groups that could be excluded. The date the the government decided was folk born before 1939, John and Ringo were born in 1940 and Paul 1942, George 1943, so they just missed it. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@danielrichardcaprani9960]

I did 3month detection centre in 73, for being a juvenile delinquent,did me the world of good, society became better Amen,50yrs later 😂😂😂 thank god,Donald J Trump has been elected Again, God Bless The Real President Donald J Trump 🇬🇧

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Dan please check out my other channel films. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@Mr.SLovesTheSacredHeartofJesus]

Amen to that!

[@kevinwalsh1619]

"Churchill was a man who destroyed two empires, one of them the enemy's." --David Irving

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Interesting Kevin Churchill had many flaws. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@Idle-Days]

I was looking forward to doing my time but they cancelled it. I was annoyed.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Could you have signed up as a regular. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@lenniecapuano521]

should bring it back for the lazy lot that wont work

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you interesting suggestion. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@mrjockt]

If any government wants to bring back National Service the first people they need to ask are those already serving, I joined up back in the late seventies and during my ten years in uniform the idea of bringing back NS was mooted a few times and the general opinion of those serving is that it was a bad idea mainly because if you went into combat you wanted the man, or woman, covering your back to be someone that volunteered to be there and not someone who was forced to be there. Another factor against the reintroduction of NS is the cost, after W.W.II Britain had large quantities of surplus equipment, uniforms, weapons etc., that could be used for those undergoing NS, that is no longer the case and bringing back NS would be a very expensive thing to do.

[@roydavidlivermore4664]

Well two thirds of those serving in the Korean War,were NS who did exactly the same training as regulars,and almost 400 were KIA..

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

You have some interesting points there. Chris.

[@mrjockt]

@@roydavidlivermore4664 Different attitude back then, those serving as regulars after World War 2 had either been conscripted themselves and decided to stay on as a regular or had served alongside conscripts, since the last National Servicemen had left the military in the early sixties, my father was one of them, no one in todays military has ever served alongside personnel that didn’t volunteer for military service.

[@peterdavidson3890]

R.S.M. Britten at the front picture

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you please have a subscribe and check out my channel. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@peterdickenson424]

called up 1958 signed on for 3 years in the coldstream guards caterham 12 weeks a nightmare went by ship to kenya for two year no home leave

[@alanbav1017]

BRING IT BACK

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Previous government almost did Alan. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@ianherd569]

2 years National Service awarded by 2 years of University education or an equivalent.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks for your feedback Ian you are welcome to check out my other channel films. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@WarrenCarr-w4p]

I think they should bring nation service back. But only true British people. It might put some backbone into someof these idiots who have nothing better to do accept find an excuse to go round protesting over things they don't know about or think they know about.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Warren for your interesting feedback. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@JoePoole-l4c]

National service ended in the fifty's in United Kingdom not in the sixties

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

The need for ongoing conscription was reassessed, and from 1957, National Service was drastically reduced until the final intake of men in 1960. National Service ended in 1960, though periods of deferred service still had to be completed. The last national servicemen were discharged in 1963. The last National Serviceman, Second Lieutenant Richard Vaughan of the Royal Army Pay Corps, was discharged to the reserve on 14 June 1963.

[@wallyreeve3690]

70 years ago today I was demobbed. It was a great experience but really a waste of time

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks for your feedback Wally. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@abbush2921]

I read that a General said National Service was good for the country but it bloody near killed the Army .

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

You could have a point there. Chris.

[@roydavidlivermore4664]

I read recently in a book written by a Colonel,who said - The Second World War was won by those who were called up.

[@peterk2455]

2:58 Was? Wer ist das denn?

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Apologies Peter I was researching for an image showing youg men lined up for a medical. Chris.

[@MartinJames389]

I missed it by a couple of years. I would have refused. I never got to making plans for that as I didn't need to, but neither the person I was then or am now would have had any part of it. Young and ill-informed as I was, It was the beginning of my political education over the criminality of the Suez debacle that made my mind up a few years earlier, and it hasn't changed since.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Very interesting observations Martin, do please check out my channel. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@colinmaceke7474]

Good job you weren’t put to the test; you could have ended up a coal miner!

[@pjmoseley243]

it probably would not work now days.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

You maybe right there PJ. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@Michael-q9g5e]

They needed the manpower to oversee the winding down of the British empire. This was wound down when the majority of the work was done. To bring it back would serve no purpose.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Good point Michael. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@johnminshell7595]

Left my sweet heart ❤behind no leave from foreign lands just rows of tents and miles and miles of sand eating tinned food , no fresh water , with no money , we should get a refund , starting wage £ 1 a week rising to £ 3.50 for working in scorching desert picking Unexploded Mines, got Skin Cancer Now , all that Sun.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Quite an adventure John. All the Very Best Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@ukraine7249]

I’m appalled at the homophobia that was present during national service. I came out as gay in 1962 and was sent to MCTC then thrown out. 😢

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thankfully times have changed, many thanks for your feedback. Chris.

[@tonycannyfarm8434]

Natation Service, would not work in the UK now, two many kids who think they are hard men, But they are not,

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Many thanks for your honest reply Tony, do please check out my channel. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@danuk-]

If we were real men we would refuse to be conned by a script.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Different generation I guess. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@angloaust1575]

I registered in 1966 when turning 20 in western australia Due to vietnam war However my birth date wasnt Drawn so missed out Was all gung ho at time but Blind to truth glad i wasnt Called up fighting a useless war!

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Many thanks for your feedback. Chris.

[@jimdonovan243]

By the second world war any man educated and capable of taking an officers exam, then passing the course studies, could become an officer. Apptitude would have been assesed on an ongoing basis before being allowed to enter the exam. So less nonsense from the young or foreigners amongst you. There was of course an element of snobbery that is why certain groups, like me, would be excluded.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks Jim appreciate you taking the time to post up your thoughts. Chris kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@indigohammer5732]

People of a certain age, and political leaning, often call for the reintroduction of National Service as a measure to quell unruly "Yoofs". They seem oblivious to the fact that teaching antisocial idiots unarmed combat, weapons handling and how to live off the land may be a bad idea. It didn't work out too well for the old Warsaw Pact countries.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Interesting point you write there. Chris.

[@johndover3626]

It's seen as the best way of controlling the working class...the Labour Party would love to introduce it in 2025.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks for your feedback John. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@subliminalart.1637]

Lower class cannon fodder, wonderful. 🤣🤣🤣🇬🇧

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you glad it was of some interest. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@jamesavenell]

Not to be recommended chaps as those that deem to persecute our lives have no authority from our Creator, in doing so.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks James for your interesting feedback. Chris.

[@billfarley9167]

I remember that face. Another mindless, robot of a Sargeant Major.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thank you Bill I am sure there were many. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@neildonaldson3408]

Loved the video. National Service is a stupid idea. Why spend two years taking a young productive person out of actually learning and earning money within an economy and waste this defending a lost empire? Even professional military think it's not worth it.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

These governments keep producing wacky ideas. Chris. Do please have a subscribe. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@ijg4427]

Many are not young and productive but are destructive

[@Janus-fn2uz]

Nougat!

[@johnmurray8428]

What a waste of time.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Many thought the same John. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@barrysmith1651]

Horrible thing to do to young men , bet you couldn't do it again

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks for your feedback Barry. Chris. kzbin.info/door/Oh3lzlK4b9UtMzHagk7SaQ

[@roydavidlivermore4664]

A different world now!

[@brickie59]

A lot of needless shouting not much point wasting 2 years of your life.

[@GULLPERCHFLYER]

Thanks for watching along. Best Regards Chris.