My Time in the Army Cadets

[@Ivarr.Bergmann.Alaska]

You'll get out of life exactly what you put into it.. Awesome talk. Congrats on the 'full circle'. Most ppl don't even know that circle exists..

[@alexkerr8770]

Awesome stuff ex para reg 2 battalion so proud of anything I see promoting strong young men that need a role model

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Cheers mate 🆎👍

[@robmorris4999]

I’m in my 22nd year as an instructor with the ACF, what you say in this video is right on the money. The cadets can furnish anyone who joins with so many skills they can use throughout life and give them opportunities they won’t get just by sitting on a computer at home. Cracking video! 😊

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Good on you, and thankyou.

[@somhairleyahoo5644]

As a family of the Military , my son is in the Army Cadets at 14. Whatever he decides to do in life, as this gentleman says, it's not about war, but about being disciplined. Regardless what he wishes to become, I know the Cadets will help him achieve his goals.

[@Mark-gv4xv]

Yeah Roger that . I started of in cadets at 13. What the cadets installed in me got me through 17 years in the Army , 10 years on the circuit . And it all started with the Cadets . Keep up the good work with the kids mate. There the future of this country 👊

[@nobby3542]

I was an Army Cadet from 1972 - 1977. I then joined the British Army and served for 23 years. Even though i was ex Army. I served as a civilian instructor with the ATC for 10 years. As you say, the Army Cadets and other youth organisations give the youngsters sjills that they would not get anywhere else. During my ACF time, i not only travelled around the UK. I also spent 2 weeks with 94 Locating Regiment RA in Celle, Germany. Got to fly in a Wessex Mk5 helicopter and fire the Carl Gustav Anti tank system. All before my 17th birthday. Like yourself, my family were not 'well off' and all the activities i did were either FREE or subsidised!👍 As an instructor with the ATC, I helped promote activities such as Duke of Edinburghs Award. I had gained my DOE Awards during my Cadet career. Its not for everyone, as you say. But unless you 'give it a bash', you will never know! I'm now nearly 64 and i still reminisce about my Cadet days. That founding has got me to where i am today. Proud, Respectful, Disciplined. Just to reiterate. The Armed Forces sponsored Cadet Forces are not a recruitment agency. If you as an individual want to then join up, you are 1 step ahead in your knowledge.👍👍

[@Kp31026]

Now what's routine work after retirement

[@nobby3542]

@@Kp31026 I'm the Lollipop man for our village school. I'm the Flood Warden for the village. Still go Tabbing and play Golf. Probably busier now than when i was working. Difference is, its stuff i really enjoy doing!🥰🥰

[@rogerd6166]

One of the best times of my army services was to give my two weeks leave up from a deployment to go and help train the 6th Btn RWF down at Chickerell Camp in Dorset about 1986 ish. I was assigned to Delta Company, and at the end of the two weeks when it was my turn to be presented with a leaving certificate, 100 cadets cheered me on. Brought a lump to my throat i can tell you. The best shot in the Btn went to a female. Great vid Tom, brought back some great memories.

[@sean_mccormack]

I spent three weeks at chickerell last year, two in June and the other in October.

[@johnredfern1973]

Best thing I ever did was to become a CFAV love watching cadets grow in there time in the ACF.

[@markf5661]

Greetings from Sydney, Australia. 5 Years in Aust Army Cadets…..LOVED it. Discipline, Respect, Loyalty and Duty…..that’s what I took away from it. Fending for yourself, thinking of team and striving for excellence. We had 7 day camps every year at the Singleton Army Base…we used the army range, SLR, M16…we rode in APC’s and Huey’s. But above all, we learnt about ourselves and how to survive, support and look out for others…..something today’s generation would not have a chance of doing, nor surviving.

[@timec2002]

I did about 3yrs of Army Cadets before I joined up. Definitely helped me on the right path and given that most of the Adult Instructors were ex-forces we did get plenty of advice on what to expect. A great experience and highly recommended to all youngsters.

[@bluejuice57]

RGJ cadet for 2yrs from 14 years to 16 Loved every minute doing camps, shooting, field craft skills, respect, self reliance loads of things. In my 50s now and still use them 👊

[@andyhumby]

Great video and such an important message. I recently saw a team of cadets practicing for a field gun competion and they were nails!!! If only more adults in the UK showed the same level of determination and teamwork. Thanks for all your content, it's a brilliant channel.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Thanks mate. I did a Field Gun Instructor course recently as it goes.

[@theflyingpostmane]

It was the best thing I did. Back in the mid 90s in London, the ACF was a life saver, looking back now. An excellent summer holiday thrown in as well if you went on annal camp. DofE awards, getting to experience people from all over the country at a young age is great thing. As the man says it prepares you for life in the military if you so wish or just life in general. Shout out to 72PWRR ACF.

[@davidwilliams4830]

I was in cubs an scouts, but raised in a traditional family. I’m eldest of 4. We all learned personal care at home- eg polishing shoes, lighting fires, discipline, cooking, cleaning and the whole gambit of things you need to be a decent person in society. I’m grateful for that, a great start to life. Scouts / cadets breeds confidence and teamwork- further life skills which are essential but almost forgotten today. I’m younger than you too, at 44. Keep up your great work, your badged uniform and beret are proof of your efforts. Thank you for passing along your knowledge, skills and expertise to the next generation. I’m a channel subscriber and also follow forces news

[@davidwilliams4830]

I was one of a handful of kids who were in pressed school uniforms with polished shoes. My grandfather was a Dunkirk veteran and regularly bollocked us for being scruffy. He also taught me to mirror shine shoes. To this day I always look at shoes to see the real person wearing them. Dirty clothes and dirty mind, he used to say. He was TA and awarded best turned out in his regiment before he was sent to France in 1940. Best polish my Lowa gtx boots before bed😂

[@angelswithdirtyfaces1]

👍👍👍

[@raging_ferret4915]

One of the best things I ever did and gave focus to an otherwise disrupted childhood. I didnt follow it into the military but alot of the skills have carried forward into my career.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

That’s exactly what l was saying mate, it’s not all about joining the military, the cadets give you great life skills.

[@LetsTab59-bd4fd]

Really good video, CCF, ACF, SCC and the RM Cadets are such a important tool to develop our youth, as you say even if a young person doesn't join the Regulars or Reserves after being a Cadet they'll have learnt some valuable life skills. All the best mate. Just subscribed.

[@samsmall4014]

It is always nice to see people paying it forward for the next generation, you gained your first experiences from the cadets which allowed you to have your career and now you are mentoring the next generation to give them an opportunity and that is all that matters. Personally I only jump out of a plane if it had no wings and was on fire as the saying goes so to do this over several thousand times you must be either a brave or lucky man and I bet your are an excellent instructor for the youth as the world has total changed from when we grew up - the last time I was in Germany it was still West Germany and the wall had just come down. I remember this as it was yesterday, driving a Bedford in a convey and being over taken by an East German family in their car tasting freedom for the first time, a wonderful sight- which is just confined to the history books. Your students should be honored to have you as their instructor as much as you have them as your students

[@Blackmafia943]

Great that you pass on your tremendous experience to youngsters. 👏

[@Soggz7785]

Great vid, Tom, and very inspirational for any young’uns watching. Back in the mid ‘70’s, my mother, who was 90 a few weeks ago, spent her time and energy fund raising to get our towns Scout hut built. (50 years ago). Cubs and Scouts were great early ‘stepping stones’ to careers like the forces. My bro was in the Scouts, then the sea scouts, went on Scout exchanges to Maine in Canada, and a few decades later ended up as a Cheif Petty officer on a Nuclear Sub based at Fastlane. He certainly went places, from learning how to tie a humble reef knot. All the very best to you.👍🏾🇬🇧

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Cheers mate 👍

[@simonhellier7281]

Very good indeed. Positive, can-do approach, character, teamwork.

[@neilkeepingitreal]

I had a great time in the cadets I made some great mates and the annual camps every year at Crowborough were a good laugh we had week long trips away to regular units out on Germany..I still go past my old drill Hall in Stowmarket 30 years on and it brings back some good memories I joined the regular army at 16 and served 6 years all because of how much i previously enjoyed cadets

[@andrewkemish6861]

Cheers Tom, on the piont as ever. My time in the army cadets gave me foundation skills I've used all my life in the out doors round the world. Now my son and nephew are doing the same and visibly growing in confidance and character. I'm an adult instructor in Sea cadets but it's a shame the RN has cut them away now. It has to stand alone as a charity which is hard work.

[@Bob-Horse]

Entirely agree with you. I did the Boys Brigade and at school, we had regular visits from the Army Youth Team who took us walking, camping and orienteering in places like Dartmoor, Exmoor and the Brecon Beacons. I also participated in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme whilst at school. I loved every bit of it and it served me well.

[@Finny14754]

I was in the Royal Anglians and loved it .

[@smokejumperhg]

Hats off Tom. Fantastic that you are giving back to the youngsters in the SSI role. They are extremely lucky to have someone with your experience to teach them these valuable skills, values and mindset. 6:38

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Thanks mate. Are you a smoke jumper btw?

[@smokejumperhg]

@@PreparedPathfinder Ha ha 😄sadly no. Just did some time in TA and UK Fire & Rescue hence the combo username. Just a Boy Scout compared to you and nowhere near yr standard!

[@PreparedPathfinder]

@@smokejumperhg ha ha, roger that mate!

[@scottjordan6694]

Great video. At nearly 50 year old, im a instructor with both the Air Cadets and Scouts. And im working through the Mountain Leader qualification. And I am a DofE leader. As an adult, being one of the staff members is a good place to open your horizons also. You can use your life experience to improve the outlook for the kids in your local area.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Definitely mate. I’m 52 and constantly adding to my quals and experience. Every day’s a learning day. Your last comment is spot on.

[@calmolly1]

I was in the Cadets back in the late seventies and enjoyed every minute of it. Learned so much that have served me well through my life. I would recommend it wholeheartedly. You are spot on mate. Cool to see the old No4 in your pictures. That was a heavy old girl as a skinny 13 year old kid.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Cheers, yeah the Lee Enfield was, helluva kick too.

[@SouthLondonLadOutdoors]

Great video! Our 13 year old boy joined up in the army cadets four months ago and is absolutely loving it - making new friends and learning new things. He's looking forward to getting through his basic training so that he can start getting more involved in all of the activities and learning new life skills.

[@simonsharpe1352]

As a four star cadet with Duke of Edinburgh awards, first aid at work, method of instructional courses, examples of leadership and managing teams and that include planning, and organising whilst working with others, will always give you something to talk about at an interview. This certainly helped in the employment world.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Definitely streets ahead of anyone else of the same age.

[@vwtransportersandmotorcycl3729]

I’ve gone from cadet, to TA and the regular Army and recently back to the cadets as an adult instructor…….I find it very rewarding and at times quite humbling. I like to think that I’m making a difference.

[@FredPerryUSA]

Wow... talk about a stroll down memory lane. I was in boarding school down under and proudly wore the slouched "Digger's" hat in the Australian Army Cadets 1972-1975. I to carried an Enfield rifle 0:20 , in fact I learned to shoot behind that old beast, as well as the Bren Gun while on bivouac in Queensland's outback. And in the year prior to Cadets, (2nd Form) I participated in the Duke of Edinburgh awards with bronze medals in surf life saving and outward bound. What great memories you have rekindled. We moved to the US where I finished high school and joined the United States Coast Guard for a four year stent. Today I live to take my Oz Tent and grandchildren into the woods whenever I can grab a four-day weekend. Thanks much, mate!

[@BourneOutside]

I doff my cap to you, Mr. B. It is a great thing you are doing and what you have done in the past too.

[@lawrencemartin1113]

I have worked with cadets from all three services at a school CCF for the past 15 plus years and can categorically state that cadets from any branch; RN, Army or RAF, have such a fantastic opportunity to develop excellent skills in leadership and teamwork, as well as having fantastic opportunities to take part in so many outdoor adventure training activities. Its just an amazing thing for young people to get involved in and can add hugely to a young persons CV when leaving school and going for interviews, either in the work place or for further education. I am about to retire and will grately miss my association as a CI, with the Cadet movement.

[@marksadventures3889]

Cadets were excellent. All good fun with skills for all walks of life. Gives character yes, self-belief and teamwork.

[@GC-wj6ni]

Great video,and it’s great you’re passing on your knowledge to a younger generation.You’re spot on about cadets ,my son is a lance corporal in the army cadets in Colchester(affiliated to the paras ,.they wear the cap badge )and has been for 3 years ,I’ve seen him grow into a young man and a lot of that is due to cadets ,a shy lad to one that can teach field craft and lead teams .His grandad ,my dad was an RAF radio operator and seeing my son proud to learn how to use different field radios and wear the badge for it was really nice,my dad would be proud of him .The army cadets are great .

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Awesome stuff mate.

[@xensonar9652]

I loved my time in the cadets. Shooting on the range. Bouncing around in the back of an apc, hitting the roof and laughing like mad. Going on training weekends, night time exercises lit by flares, building and working and learning and bantering, falling instantly asleep because you're so tired by the end of the day. They were adventures to me. I wanted to join the army but they didn't accept me because I'm short sighted, and back then that was a deal breaker. Ended up being a sheet metal worker, and I credit the cadets and having that on my CV for getting to pick and choose apprenticeships. Something like the cadets can really set you up in life.

[@leerolfe5332]

Totally with you pal on this! If not for Cadets I'd of been a right numpty. Eventually joined the regs as yourself (2508) but a different beret colour, still at the same training depot ;)

[@mvis]

You truly look like a content man, Tom (and rightly so). I wish we had a similar programme over here! (God knows we need it 😉)

[@jamesroadnight5327]

I was a cadet RSM in the CCF in the early 90s, I have to say that the skills I learnt have been invaluable throughout my life since. I went on to be a reservist for a while. Last October I became an adult instructor at the local Royal Marine Cadet detachment, it has been amazing to be back involved, obviously some things have changed, but some are exactly the same. What I would say is that we live in an age where kids spend hours and hours staring at the their phones, organisations like the CCF/ RN/ ACF/ ATC/ RMC/ Scouts/ etc have never been so important, getting kids off the sofa and stepping out their comfort zones is imperative. Big respect to all of those folk that give up their time to run these organisations. I’m back in the field in 2 weeks time, for first time in twenty years, I can’t bloody wait!! 😅

[@Grayman58]

Hi mate . You are 100 % correct about obtaining skills in the cadets,iam watching from CANADA . I was in the ATC 1451 Squadron ( Air cadets in suffolk England became a flight sgt ( staff sgt ) in army terms i gess although it was airforce based we did lots of camping and map reading and shelter building ect . I was already to join the regular army when my dad had the chance to move us to canada so i never did join up, but as the saying goes ............ things happen for a reason , i have a great life in canada and raised a great family iam now retired and in great heath and enjoying life thankyou for teaching the cadets skills my god they need it nowadays 👌🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@kenking1228]

Ex Haverhill Sqn then!.

[@Grayman58]

​@@kenking1228 yes .

[@deangoodall7411]

Nice one Tom, all very true and wise words mate, I hope you enjoy your time as an SSI, I certainly did, the job is not without its bureaucratic and logistical challenges, but the young people are an inspiration to work with, have a good un mate

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Cheers, yeah the admin and logistics can definitely be a pain, the paperwork is ridiculous too. But as you say, it’s great to be able to make a difference to the next generation.

[@philipbirchall54]

we need more motivators like you well said sir

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Thanks mate.

[@RedDevil5081]

Looking sharp! You're absolutely correct. I started out in Naval JROTC. Not exactly the greatest for a career in the Infantry, but learned some good basic skills. At 18 became a Parateooper in 85'.

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

I completed the USAF JROTC and ended up in the Coast Guard so it was a benefit to me as well.

[@Grenadier96]

Hat off to you (if you'll excuse the pun). I was always taught that cadet instructors were one up from a Catholic priest when I was in the regs. However, a lad I served with and respected joined a CTT and told me I was tailor made for it. I thought I'd be a fool not to at least take a look. I'm in my 4th year now and haven't looked back. Started off with the ACF, then transferred to the CCF of a large co-ed school in Wiltshire. Reached the heady heights of C/Sgt and love every minute of it. Like you say, it's not all about cutting about giving it the Johnny Rambo. The life skills/lessons and core values instilled in the kids are second to none. Invariably some of them learn the hard way, but I learn from it too. They never ever leave without a smile on their faces, even if I have to buy a smile with Haribo. It has been the best mental health therapy I could have ever wished for too. If you'd told me 20 years ago that I'd ever be a CFAV I'd have said you were taking the p*ss. Wouldn't change it for the world now. I don't allow myself a beard, however. Because I'm a Guardsman, and we are all massive cabbages.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Ha ha, massive cabbages! :) I haver a beard because I can, and it pisses people off!

[@Plainsurvival]

Hi mate those cadet pics are some of the allyest out there, very 'red dawn' too, love it

[@ivorlongshot]

I was in the ACF until I joined up, a 4 Star Corporal and Duke of Edinburgh Silver award. It served me well, gave me a love of outdoors and the map reading/orienteering came in handy 👍

[@willjohnson1273]

Absolutely mate all these youth organisations give these opportunities to expand their personal development, and opportunity for experiences that otherwise they wouldn't get or at least not without paying out a lot of money to do so. I did it until I had to leave due to age. I later went on to spend 13 years plus in the TA (Reserves). Good times and bad times without a doubt were had.

[@Ryan.90]

It's mad in 1985 you guys were still using the No4 Enfields..must have been great! I was in ACF 2002-2006 so we got lumbered with the L98A1.

[@swingingingerplums]

Marine Cadets at 13. TS Forward. Set a lot of life long disciplins and some of the best days of my youth

[@markgd956]

Thanks Tom, same journey, don't let 'them' grind you down though mate, never forget the esteem the kids hold you in, there are pot Reg and Blades amongst them. always forwards! Rgds

[@brettwilson7155]

I was in the Air Cadets in the early 80's and went on to serve 13 years in the Fleet Air Arm. I am still using my skills to this day as a freelance aircraft engineer working around the world ...... not bad for a poor kid from a council house. I highly recommend the cadets as it started my path to where I am today 🙂

[@VK6AB-]

Excellent video - many good people started out in the cadets. Skills for life.

[@johnbiddal5951]

Great video. If the good advice filters down to just a few youngsters it will have been well worth making it. 👍

[@chrisatty]

Personally I did Duke of Edinburgh awards excises @ 14, gives you confidence, and leadership skills.

[@charlietango4924]

Was a RAF Cadet with the CCF while at school. The opportunities and exposure was phenomenal. From flying to kayaking, marching to orienteering, shooting to swimming - I am able to use those learnt skills and knowledge. Certainly, a memorable time.

[@Mugwumps107]

Brilliant Tom, passing on your knowledge, skills and experience.

[@Earthreaper]

Good to see your face again. Stumbled across your yt randomly. Served with you in B coy 4 para

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Cheers mate.

[@davidsayer3325]

Great video Tom , I also joined the cadets in the early 80s , Regular Army then Reserves . It helped me in many different ways and will always look back fondly of my time in the cadets.

[@neilbrogan5897]

I joined the ACF in 1983, I absolutely loved it. I realised quite quickly that as opposed to being an "also ran" at school (youngest/smallest lad in my year and all the baggage that brings with it) I had a real aptitude for all things military and took to the lessons like a duck to water. It was the first time in my life I'd been best in my peer group at anything and it transformed the way I thought about myself in terms of confidence. Being treated (sort of) as an adult and expected to look after myself (and others) and make decisions, plus of course spending time away with our regular army sponsor regiment at the old Rifle Depot in Winchester, getting to fire weapons, live in the field, chuck ourselves over assault courses etc, best years of my young life. Like you, we were not that well off and I remember my first annual camp I couldn't go as we couldn't afford it. I was devastated. Then one night the week before, there was a knock at the door and it was my CO and Colour boy, asking to speak to my Dad. Basically they said to him they saw something in me and really wanted me to go, and that the unit would cover the cost. My Dad turned round to me and said "You'd better get your kit packed son" I've never moved so quickly in my life. I've never forgotten that small act of kindness, I had the absolute time of my life. Joined Junior Leaders in 1986 and did 10 years.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

It's moments like that than can change your life, well done those men.

[@KevinBirch-gp3js]

I had a fantastic time from 74-78 was in Horns Cross RE detachment which was linked to Gravesend, The instructors were great ( Sgt Nick Wright, Sgt Arthur Barden H/Cross S/Sgt Jim Bailey and Capt. Cairns later MBE congratulations on the MBE very well deserved Gravesend) loved the long weekends down to Dymchurch and annual camps, done the commandants march and shoot in 76 at Otterburn training camp at 15 what a ball breaker 10 days of runs with packs, training in the middle of nowhere the heat that summer was beyond, but loved every minute of it, you got very fit. As every one else says the life skills you learn set you up for life, and you will use them every day without knowing it. When my kids where young 9-10 years old they had some friends over, said whose coming down the beach, we'll take so sausages and onions see what we can get find on the beach and have a fire, my wife said I was boring my kids didn't want to go but their friends did so my kids had to go. So we went foraging, sea weed shrimps prawns etc Built a reflective fire out of stone cooked what we caught ate the bangers and onions. The moral of the story is every time, I see them kids once every couple of years the second thing they ask, with joy do you remember that day on the beach, when we had sea weed sausages and things. This was 28 yrs ago and this is what cadets did for me it made fantastic memories ,

[@deandarvill3821]

I joined the ACF in 1982, at 13 years old. Left at 18 as a staff sgt and joined up 10 days after my birthday. My regular career was cut short by injury only serving 3.5 year's. The friends I made as a cadet are still my friends, most went onto some form of military career, TA or regular. We still are in contact and when we meet up its like we only saw each other yesterday. My time as a cadet set me up for the rest of my life. I live abroad, otherwise I would look into be coming an instructor.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

All my friends joined the army after being in the ACF too, most of us did 22 years (or more) too.

[@TimBishop-ol2sx]

Brilliant video mate

[@dogdadoutdoors]

I did ACF as a cadet, then later as an instructor before I joined the dark side and left to join the RAF Air Cadets. Great times, I learnt a lot of skills myself, helped a lot of people and had a great time doing it. Highly recommended.

[@Maroonmuppet]

Good video Mucker - good to see you wearing the 1 Para DZ🟥

[@hampshireoutdoorsandsurviv9340]

mate good on yer putting back in and giving back , i have ran ranges for cadets inc DCCT and built a shotgun range at longmoor camp for cadets , always had fun with the adult instructors and young people their enthusiasm was so refreshing most other range users did not want to be there have agreat week mate

[@rrl9409]

Excellent. We'll done.

[@germanredneck9019]

WOW! Respect, and LOTS of it! What you did is amazing and i really like it a lot. 👍🏼 You are one tough guy! I agree to 100 % with what you sayd! Very wise words. Thanks for the Video, i hope this will inspire a Lot of young people. It even inspired me, as a Not so Young person 😅 All the best, GR 🤙🏼

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Cheers mate, appreciate it 👍

[@JeepsterDave]

Great messages there. I'm just starting on my own journey as a CFAV in the ACF and hope I can contribute positively to developing the young people in my detachment in the ways you talk about.

[@robd2184]

7 years in ATC , best decision I made as a 13 year old ! Now been flying for a living for 32 years , and it started it all

[@graehamquilliam7019]

I loved my 4 years in the ACF. I would recommend it to any young person.

[@WyeExplorer]

My twin brother and I were cadets and then went into Junior Para in the then Browning Barracks. We passed out and then got out - as twins it just didn't work out. The aim was to be like dad here in Hereford at 22 SAS - dreams eh? They don't always work. But the thing is them habits and skills are still with me - I clean out the front of my home door, my home is always on top, I think ahead and so on. Definitely the military and of course having grown up with the regiment here. Good to hear of your career - some incredible experiences and memories for sure. Peace. Mark

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Thanks mate. I was Junior Para too. Sorry to hear it didn't work out for you.

[@WyeExplorer]

@@PreparedPathfinder A pleasure. Hey, that's good-it was a great time in Junior Para. Well, out of 96 27 of us did P Company - all front runners. It was a weird twist in the twin story that saw us fail. My dear late twin Paul got injured on the first event and he hadn't ever been injured. To me the separation felt like grief and to pass P Company you need 100% of yourself and not 50%. The strange thing was I didn't know if he would follow me through - there was an odd distrust that emerged. So, with a force more powerful than the Para Reg or Hereford I knocked it on the head-Paul assured me he'd follow me through and I went back to the next P Co but one. In true twin fashion I fractured my leg - I had done to much training for to long. So, having recovered Paul was now faced with the same thing. We turned to each other and said, 'not meant to be doing this.' It's in my upcoming book 'The Sight of Two.' Even odder the day we got out after 19 months in Browning Barracks - who stays that long? we sat 4 seats in front of our dad at Reading who was coming back from London and he was the reason we were there. What are the odds? Well, that's it in short. Peace.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

@@WyeExplorer fair play mate. The numbers back then were crazy hey? 78 started my P Company and 24 passed. That number doesn't include a lot that didn't get that far, as you'll know. However from my JPC platoon we had quite a good pass rate.

[@WyeExplorer]

@@PreparedPathfinder Yeah, thinking about it they were. 96 was two platoons that eventually amalgamated as one - 27 the end result. 24 out of 78 - very good. What was your JPC year? I was June 84. Last of the old school staff...

[@PreparedPathfinder]

@@WyeExplorer I started in 1988. Ref 'old school', that'll depend on your point of view. Most of my staff were Falklands veterans, which would definitely be seen as old school now. Especially since the Depot moved in 1993.

[@B-uk8eo]

Mate, gleaming career and passing all your experience to the next cohort is cracking 👍💪👊

[@Geezer2006]

Yeah we was the winner for acf combat cadet 2024 and it was super fun

[@TheGoodGentleman]

I'm currently a cadet Sgt in the acf and I gotta say it is amazing and teaching cadets as well and seeing the younger cadets grow and develop is a proud feeling and it's definitely one of the best things I've ever decided to do met great people and done great things and soon starting my career in the army

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Great stuff, that's where I was 35 years ago. Best of luck for your time in the army. 👍

[@TheGoodGentleman]

@@PreparedPathfinder Thank you very much I start at AFC Harrogate in September and I'm going to make the most out of it

[@PreparedPathfinder]

@@TheGoodGentleman cool, go for it. What Regiment are you applying for?

[@TheGoodGentleman]

@@PreparedPathfinder Royal Artillery and then working towards being a forward observer and hopefully after that either 4/73 battery or pathfinder

[@PreparedPathfinder]

@@TheGoodGentleman roger, well I hope it works out for you.

[@theodorossarafis7370]

In Greece we have conscription. I am a strong believer since the people learn how to love their country, learn how to defend it but also to become responsible citizens. I would highly recommend to young ones to join and learn skills and discipline that will make them useful and better citizens and people. As always you rock :)

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Thanks mate!

[@irvsstella]

I was ACF at much the same time. My final parade was the night before I joined up, on the train down to Dover. I spent 3.5yrs having a great time with my mates, some of who went on to careers in the Guards, the Worcesters and Sherwoods as it was at the time, The L.I. as it was, the Signals, and one monkey, (R.M.P.) I still don't talk to him lol. I went for the finest Regiment in the British Army, Her Majesties Corps of Royal Engineers.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

I was on my last Annual Camp which finished the day before I joined the Army too. All my mates joined up too, most of whom did 22 years. They went to; R Sigs, WRAC, QA, RAMC, 17/21st Lancers, R Anglians, Para Regt.

[@pnyarrow]

Hi There. So many true words and I hope this video becaomes a great hit - the cadets have a lot to offer so many young peopel in so many ways. ATB. Nigel

[@matt6477]

👏👏well done mate. CCF is really important to our society

[@gerrero4504]

To inspire to achieve my friend, Utrinque Paratus

[@leeharrison-u2q]

Great video Ronnie, proud a ya,

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Bust a cloud for ya! 🪂😂

[@leeharrison-u2q]

Crowd line

[@Gunner4746]

I was in the Boys Brigade, say no more 😊 Red On, Go!

[@fubarghost13akawoz44]

1996-1999 Rayleigh Essex ACF C coy Royal Signals corps. Instructors Captain Coffin Sargent Mills and Sargent Clifford. I was a 3 star Sargent, silver D of E, marksmanship qualified, St John’s, signals qualified… went to north wales thetford and Yorkshire for annual camp also got the chance to go to RAF Bruggen in Germany for 10 days to train with some regulars and on that trip went to Arnhem in Holland to see the “bridge to far” and the war cemetery also went to a few other weekend training camp’s like cherry tree lane near the glass house in Colchester did as you mentioned everything from field craft and survival and camping to hiking and canoeing abseiling to rock climbing… all sorts. Went poppy selling every year and spent some time with the older boys and girls and listened to their stories and of course attended service. It was awesome and if it wasn’t for health reasons and the medical denial of my application I’d have loved to move in to being a regular but even though my story didn’t take that path the memories of being in the ACF will be with me forever. It will mold your personality for the better as a kid show you it’s ok not to be right and ok to let others take the lead but also that when you need to you have the tool set to take the lead yourself. And a major thing that lacks in some youth today is respect not only for your elders but your team mates your opponents and most importantly yourself. 👍🏻 randomly came across this video and it’s brought a smile to my face just remembering them days sure some days was cold wet and crumby but the sense of accomplishment was brilliant.

[@fubarghost13akawoz44]

@@craig2795 damn what a small world… 🤙🏻 sounds like you had a better turn of it after with joining up. I got turned down for being given an asthma pump when I was a kid it broke my heart. But I still hold this key core skills and respect I was taught there every day. I moved away from the area but I often wonder if it’s still there and how it was/is now you know if your or my generation would recognize it?. I wonder if I knew any of the instructors you knew ? The one that comes to mind is Captain Coffin when I joined he was Rayleigh’s officer?.

[@fubarghost13akawoz44]

@@craig2795 yeah I should have actually joined the hockley detachment but it had closed down about a year before I joined so next nearest was Rayleigh. I do sometimes wonder how many of the places have closed down now and been redeveloped. I don’t remember to much on the outside of cherry tree lane each time I went there was in the back on a 7ton’er but I remember camping there doing a exercise and we was the holiest of cluster fk’s 😅. We had those little 2 man bivvy tents and a electrical storm rolled in in the evening before we had made camp so the “adult” said to just use the bivvys as blankets over the down filled sleeping bags 😂 needless to say we woke up nearly drowned. I can only remember that adult instructors nickname was Bugger because the year before on a separate camp exercise he threw a flashbang and as he wound up he dropped it behind himself on his brand new basher 😂 all we heard was “OH BUGGER… BANG…” 😂😂😂

[@fubarghost13akawoz44]

@@craig2795 to some people it probably sounds stupid when I remember being there and talk about it but it helped form me to who I am today and also because I had the opportunity to serve taken away because a Dr’s choice when I was a child it’s the closest I got to doing my dream job. Thanks for reaching out it really put a smile on my face remembering more memories your comments triggered 🤙🏻.

[@gwynapnydd4137]

Started with atc then ta for years loved it

[@dukeeod1650]

In the states we have boy scouts and Junior Reserve Officer training course (JROTC), I wish we had something like the cadets. We also have Civil Air Patrol which is where we get a lot of medical training as well a some bushcraft. Awesome video.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Thanks mate. Yeah it’s a shame you don’t have an equivalent in the States.

[@themodernminuteman2557]

Great chat!

[@Andy-walkaboutnutty]

That made me laugh when you said tesco. I started in army cadets, then a spar shop and the TAs, then regular army, then trucking and TAs, and now?? Yep, tescos. trucking this time, not in the store. But you're right, these organisations are great for youngsters. They are needed even more so these days, I think.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

You’ve moved up in the world then mate 😂

[@davetaylor3801]

Totally agree with your comments 👍

[@ltippers7029]

Nice one Tom, now let the beastings begin for those young scallywags! haha

[@PreparedPathfinder]

"The beastings will continue until morale improves" :)

[@philbeattie1623]

Wow I joined marines 85 then buddy, left 08 , work as MCO Dubai lol 😂, would love to do this , but will retire to Spain though excellent program

[@aj-tp2yh]

thankyou nice chat

[@journeyman7189]

I went through the Scouting system up to just starting Ventures before part time jobs and girls got in the way. This is something that is lacking these days fork is at least it seems to be falling in numbers every year.. Lots of sports activities but no real challenges that must be overcome personally and with a team. With more people did Scouts and Cadets. Nate

[@jasonbennett8455]

Right on brother I could not have said it any better my self I was in cadets in Canada 1882 Wellington rifles won gold medal with the FN rifle did and seen a lot of cool for stuff great you are giving back most don't know the time and effort it takes you have fire and passion!! In spades God bless from Canada eh PS a few more like you and we could go in to Hell and take over.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Cheers mate, appreciate it 🇨🇦🇬🇧👍

[@rickydepledge3245]

Cubs. Scouts then cadets. Cadet of year yorkshire in 1980 at first attempt. Went on to serve with Engineers. Parachute Regiment Then UKSF R .should be compulsory. Also got mate. He was Air Cadets. Got his Glider pilot wings to then light aircraft qualified. He went to Cranwell. They failed him because he was working class like me. Already a qualified pilot!! Thats RAF for you.

[@kevincorby435]

My son from the age of 16 was a member of the NSW SES. Due to slight hearing problem he is unable to join the ADF but is has thrown himself into being an instructor with the RAN cadet force. One thing I found strange is that it is a paid position.

[@Jimimac73]

Ah 303 Lee Enfield we had them in the ATC back in the 80s!

[@Hew.Jarsol]

Nice one m8 love it. Have you still got Tinnitus? How many sounds and when did it start if you dont mind asking.

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Yeah I have, why's that?

[@Ben-Downlow.]

I was in 2 separate army Cadet units as a kid. In the 1st, run by civilians plus one (disinterested) ex nco from the regular army, was infested by the younger brothers of national front boneheads, because of my Irish name I was hounded and attempted lying bullied ALL the time, an awful damaging stressful environment for an 11 year old! To be fair I never let them break me, and even bumpenld into a group of my tormentors out of uniform one day, surface to say I came off better then the group of them who ran away leaving one of their number to get a lasting impression of why you don't mess with an angry paddy! Lol. Then I moved to live 150 miles away, the local ack unit was run by a fantastic couple who had graduated Sandhurst with their commisdions, a sound solid NI vetran sergeant, and a local Bobby, To have roll models and input from these people was exactly as the man says, great charicter development, training in marksmanship, field craft, drill, presentation etc all went to promote a mindset of self reliance, and teamwork. The two experiences where like chalk and cheese, so if you find a unit is not right for you or your kid, consider moving to a better run better managed one.

[@Joinordie718]

Pretty fn cool Mr Tom 🇺🇸👍

[@zaynevanday142]

Four and a half thousand jumps 😮 holy shit puts my 47 to shame 😂😂😂

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

I'm an American veteran who successfully completed 4 years of Junior ROTC (1977-1980) which is similar to the UK Cadet Corps (though we weren't as involved in field training ops as your Cadets. I have a question which I'll preface... the United States has 6 branches of the Armed Forces. 5 (Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy) have Junior ROTC programs. A JROTC Cadet who successfully completes the 3 or 4 year program is eligible to enlist at a higher pay grade & rank than someone who did not participate in the JROTC. Depending on the Branch and whether it was 3 or 4 years, the graduate can enlist at E-2, or E-3. Question is does the Army, RN, RAF, or RM allow the UK Cadet Corps graduates to enlist at a higher grade like in the U.S. ? I've watched numerous videos on your UK Cadet Corps and thoroughly impressed. The U.S. JROTC could learn a few things from you. Thanks

[@PreparedPathfinder]

Hi, no the UK Army/RN/RAF/RM Cadets aren’t directly aligned as such with the military, like ROTC is. You get no benefits other than personal skills and experience.

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

@@PreparedPathfinder That's still A LOT ! And thank you for giving back & working with the kids ! God Speed !