Breaking Stereotypes: Height in the British Army
Emily, don't worry too much about the roles you can't do. You'll be surprised at how little you can't do in the British Army, and there are plenty of opportunities awaiting you, regardless of your height. Most roles in the army are within your reach, from infantry and artillery to signals and field intelligence. As you progress, some of the most sought-after positions may become available to you.
In today's society, many young people don't even consider the army as a career due to limited vision and assumptions. However, the armed forces provide an excellent and highly rewarding career. Just hang in there, as the journey will be challenging at times, but the good experiences and supportive people around you will help you through it. My father and I both served for 25 years each, and never did we regret a single moment of it. We've traveled the world, met royalty, protected diplomats, and even spent a month with George Adamson and his lions. Going into the army is a great choice, Emily, and I wish you the best of luck.
Ex-Infantry and Army Medic: Real-World Insights
As an ex-infantry soldier with 18 years of experience and an ex-army medic for 10 years, I can attest to the fact that the army has many more opportunities than you might think. I've worked with soldiers of all heights, including some shorter than you. The army doesn't limit you based on your size.
Don't worry about your height; focus on the role you want in the army and the career path you desire. The army offers numerous opportunities, but don't believe everything the recruiters tell you. They may try to spin stories to get you to sign up. Some roles can be transferred once you are in a specific regiment. Consider what career path you want to follow. You could aim for roles such as nursing, medical, mechanics, driving, or even becoming a pilot for the helicopters. Infantry roles are now available for female recruits too.
Choose a Trade for a Smoother Transition to Civilian Life
One of the best pieces of advice I can give you is to choose a trade. This will make the transition to civilian life much easier. For instance, I left the infantry with a swimming certificate and the ability to kill you in 500 ways with a spoon. However, I had to completely retrain into medicine once I joined the medical corps. Therefore, it's always better to go for a trade that the army can train you in. You'll have more experience and qualifications when your military career ends, which will be a great help in your transition to a civilian life.
For more advice on the best options and to chat about your aspirations, feel free to reach out to me. Basic training is designed to push you to your limits, but if you stick with it, you'll be amazed at what you can achieve. I hope this helps you make an informed decision, Emily!