“I really missed the friendships and banter in the military, so I came back as a reservist.”
Leanne joined the Royal Electrical And Mechanical Engineers (REME) in 2003 and spent three years posted in Germany before serving in Iraq in 2006. She also took part in major training exercises in Canada and Poland.
Five years after leaving, she longed for the camaraderie of the Army, so re-joined the REME as a Reservist with 101 Theatre Support Battalion six years ago and is now a Lance Corporal.
Leanne, aged 35, said her military career has greatly improved her confidence and leadership skills.
“I’m an outgoing person and communicate well with everyone regardless of rank.
Since being in the Reserves, as an ex-regular soldier, I have found the dynamic to be quite different in terms of varying ages and skill sets. Lance Corporal Leanne
“I like the fact that there are plenty opportunities as a reservist to improve your skills.”
Leanne, who has just finished a deployment in Belize as a clerk said: “Due to the fact that Reserve deployments are usually only 16 days long I have found this one to be quite relaxed. The best thing about it is the opportunity to see another part of the world.
“My main tasks have been admin support to the Company, assisting with any queries relating to pay and claims."
Leanne, from Wigan, who works part time as a healthcare assistant at a GP surgery, has also really enjoyed the opportunity to excel in her chosen sports.
She said: “My personal Army highlight was being selected to represent Army Netball and Corps football. There are many opportunities to pursue different sports, as well as trades and qualifications."
"I found that being a woman was no barrier to pursuing the paths and progression I wanted to and it feels like being part of an extended family because of the close relationships you make."