As the UK marks Reserves Day today, when Reservists proudly wear their Army uniform in their civilian jobs, two soldiers tell their stories.
First up is Signaller Kayleigh Boardman, aged 32, from Falkirk.
Kayleigh belongs to Glasgow-based 52 Squadron 32 Signal Regiment where she works as a Signals Operator.
But on civvy street Kayleigh is a locum Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN).
Kayleigh says, “Being an RVN means I cover shifts when needed at different practices all over Scotland.
“It’s a very demanding and physical job; much like being in the Army. Both require stamina, leadership skills and determination to perform to your best ability and as part of a team.
“As a veterinary nurse, I have to be at my best to give animals the care they deserve, and I use a lot of empathy to help worried and distressed pet owners.”
Kayleigh was a member of the Glasgow and Strathclyde University Officer Training Corps whilst studying for a Master of Sciences degree at university.
She joined the Army as a Reservist in 2021.
Kayleigh says, “I fancied a challenge and change of scenery to compliment the day to day regularity of my day job as well as to learn new skills and meet new people.”
Kayleigh is an accomplished member of the Royal Corps of Signals Pipes and Drums where she is the tenor drummer and a Highland dancer.
During the King’s Coronation, she was the only female from the Army in the massed Pipes and Drums where she played the tenor drum.
She recalls, “It was a once in a lifetime experience, marching along Westminster Bridge then performing in the garden of Buckingham Palace, catching a glimpse of the newly crowned King and Queen, as the Red Arrows flew overhead.”
Kayleigh adds, “I have visited the Veneto region of Italy and Basel in Switzerland with the pipe band. Both trips were great fun as well as a cultural learning experience.
“There’s a strong feeling of belonging and comradeship in the Army. Everyone pulls together as a team and looks out for each other.
“Being a Highland dancer has been most welcomed by the pipe band. The dance style is of military origin when clan chiefs would call upon their chosen warriors to demonstrate who had the best agility, stamina, strength and balance. So this fits naturally with the Army lifestyle.
“Belonging to the Reserves has certainly made my life a lot busier but has also benefited me. It has made me more proactive in my civilian life and more likely to try new things.
Belonging to the Reserves has certainly made my life a lot busier but has also benefited me. It has made me more proactive in my civilian life and more likely to try new things.
“I hope to work my way up the Army ladder, gain as many skills as possible while enjoying my time and making memories.
“And I hope to inspire other people to make the leap and try new things; whether that’s new hobbies such as dancing or joining the Reserves.
“As far as the future goes, I plan to take each year as it comes. I’m hoping to go abroad more and perform in more tattoos, as well as gaining more qualifications and skills.”
Our second soldier is Signaller Elena Eton, aged 43, from Windsor.
She joined the Army Reserves’ 39 Signal Regiment in 2021.
Elena explains, “During the pandemic I lost my job. While looking for new opportunities, I came across the Army website and the roles available in local units. That’s how I discovered 94 (Berkshire Yeomanry) Signals Squadron, which is only two miles from my home.”
Elena is a Network Engineer for her regiment and will be undertaking the Army Officer Commissioning course at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst later this year.
She continues, “The Royal Signals seemed the right fit. I’ve always been interested in technology and communications, while the fitness, health and Army values inspired me to join as they are very close to my own beliefs.
“The first year was so exciting, getting my new kit and going through basic soldier training. I learned a great deal of life skills in a short time.
“Everyone from the junior ranks to commanding officers was extremely supportive and full of knowledge. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am now on my military path.
“Over the last year, I realised I wanted to give something back by supporting the squadron and one day be able to lead and inspire others. So I decided to apply for the officer role while continuing soldier training.
“My next step was to complete the Royal Signals trade course, two weeks at Blandford Camp. I successfully completed the course last summer and was awarded the Network Engineer Class 3 Certificate.
“Straight after the trade course, I went to Germany for my first adventure training. I chose to learn Inland Kayaking foundation skills as I love water sports. The five-day course was intense with safety drills and plenty of capsizing, but it was an amazing and fun experience.
“I feel a very confident paddler now, knowing the basic manoeuvres and look forward to taking it to the next level soon. It was one of the best adventures of my life.”
Elena adds, “Last year I was preparing physically and mentally for my Army Officer Selection Board. I wanted to give it my best shot because, due to my age, it seemed like the last opportunity to benefit from the superb leadership training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS).
“In March this year, I successfully passed the Main Board. I am absolutely thrilled, feeling very honoured and proud to have this opportunity. I can’t wait to start the commissioning course later this year.
“I believe completing the RMAS leadership course will greatly benefit my civilian career where I work as a Business Development Manager in the oil and gas quality assurance industry.”
To sum up, Elena says, “So much is happening all the time in the Reserves, great exercise weekends and events with the Squadron, where I’ve made many good friends. There are constant opportunities that I wish I had more time to take advantage of.”
So much is happening all the time in the Reserves, great exercise weekends and events with the Squadron, where I’ve made many good friends. There are constant opportunities that I wish I had more time to take advantage of.
Reservists make up one quarter of the strength of the British Army and routinely work side-by-side with the Regulars.
Army Reservists are currently supporting defensive, humanitarian and peacekeeping operations worldwide and help with civil emergencies in the UK such as major floods.
Reservists therefore play a vital role protecting the nation’s security at home and overseas.