Whether it’s where you served, the pranks you and your mates played during basic training or what you’ve been up to since leaving active service, we love hearing stories about our members’ time serving in or working in the armed forces.
That’s why we asked Defence Discount Service members for their proudest moments and were delighted to be contacted by several members including, ex-Petty Officer(E), David G who became a Lance Corporal with the 219 (Wx) Field Hospital before joining the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
We’ll be hearing more of Dave’s advice for new or aspiring recruits and his experiences since serving in upcoming blogs but – to let you know a little about his life and experience – here is his story.
When did you enlist in the TA and why?
“I joined up in 1986. I was already looking to join the armed services and had visited all the career offices in Portsmouth for the Army and RAF to discuss options but, funnily enough, a career at sea was not in my plans.
‘It was a friend of mine at the time who was keen on joining the TA but they then decided not to - he didn’t even go along to meet the unit, he pulled out entirely.”
What made you want to join the TA?
“I had a really good job at the time and although I was considering a military career, I had such a close-knit group of friends that it was proving a difficult decision to make. The TA seemed like the ideal opportunity to have a sample of the military lifestyle without jumping fully in.”
What rank/unit were you?
“When I left the TA I was a Lance Corporal with 219 (Wx) Field Hospital and when I left the RFA, I was a Petty Office(E).”
How did you end up in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary?
“I’d been in the TA for three years and had also changed jobs. At this stage, I was working in Portsmouth Naval Base on and off various RN ships.
‘This one particular time, I was working on the RFA Argus and - spending time chatting away with the crew - I subsequently found out that they were having a large recruitment drive. So, liking the sound of their role working alongside the Navy and their rotation of six months onboard followed by two months leave, I decided to apply.”
You’ve described your proudest moment as being swearing your oath of allegiance with the Territorial Army, could you share more on why?
“For me it made me feel part of something big and significant.
‘Being willing to step up to the plate in defence of your country is not something of insignificance and swearing an oath to testify to that makes it all the more real. I have always felt proud of our country, our history and our way of life. At that moment, stood in that room following that script I felt immense pride.”
How long have you been a member of Defence Discount Service?
“I’m on my second card now which expires in 2027, so… I joined in 2017”
And, how often would you say you use our service?
“Every time we go out, I try and make use of it! There are so many offers on the website that I just ask in store if they offer a discount. I don’t always get one but on occasions I have been surprised. I’ve recently completed a garden makeover with artificial turf too!”
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Log in today to see our latest offers and see how much you could save or, if you would like to have your story featured in our News Section, be sure to get in touch by emailing us at: communications@defencediscountservice.co.uk.
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