WIREDGOV

70 new reserve soldiers passed out recently in front of their family and friends having completed their basic training at the Army Training Regiment (Grantham).

The ceremony also included a special inspection from the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Sir Nicholas Houghton, and awards for the Champion Soldier, Best Shot and Champion Section.

General Sir Nicholas Houghton said recently:

Those who volunteer to serve as Reservists in the British Army are unique in their willingness to balance the challenges of their family commitments, their civilian employments and the excitement of military service.

The servicemen and women passing out today have been exemplary throughout, and I am encouraged to see a bright and competent unit supported and mentored by such a professional staff.

The troops ranged in age from 18 to 44, men and women from all sorts of backgrounds from students to IT, and will be joining Army Reserve units of every cap badge.

Signaller Arfan Ali, from Yardley in Birmingham, a trainee teacher in his civilian career, will be joining 48 (City of Birmingham) Signal Squadron.

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