Hi Alex. This isn't a silly question whatsoever.

Reservists have opportunities to deploy on exercise and operations alongside their regular counterparts, both in the UK and overseas. There are provisions in place between you and your civilian employer to facilitate this too, especially if you are needing to be deployed on a vital Operation. When you're deployed, you get paid for the duration, plus receive all the benefits a regular soldier would; free accommodation, free food etc.

In the Army Air Corps, I have deployed on numerous exercises with reservist support, including most recently an overseas exercise in Croatia. We had 6 reservists come out with us for just over a month, and they got involved with everything we did from rearming and refuelling aircraft, to cleaning vehicles and less exciting admin tasks. It's a brilliant opportunity to integrate and learn from each other, as well as gaining vital experience with a team who carry out the job everyday.

01 December, 2021 13:14