Page 85 - MERCIAN Eagle 2019

2Lt Park about to march up the famous steps of Old College and into the Regiment, Apr 20. Due to COVID-19 the parade looked slightly unorthodox but a proud moment, nevertheless.
to! Thankfully the self-motivation and enthusiasm of the cadets, combined with the professionalism of the training teams you are part of, more than make up for the tough times! I would highly recommend a posting to RMAS; great job, great location and one of few where you can leave a genuine legacy in the form of the cadets you instruct.
Throughout my time at the academy, my time has been made even more enjoyable by getting to know the other Mercian members of staff, who, to a man, have been professional, good-humoured and happy to help with all the extra-curricular recruitment stuff that goes on (I haven’t met one yet that turns down a free beer!). Our reputation among the cadets remains extremely strong; we are a no-nonsense, operationally experienced, family regiment which is part of a diverse Division offering challenges and opportunity in equal measure.
CSgt Coates and Maj Lygo on Ex DYNAMIC VICTORY in Germany – the final summative exercise for the OCdts.
Infantry
Training Centre
Catterick
LCpl Dean Lane, Regimental Shepherd
2019 has been a great and very busy year at the Infantry Training Centre (ITC Catterick) from the beginning to the end of the year we have seen so many pass out parades. 83 MERCIAN soldiers have passed out and gone to their Battalions within 2019 and 2020. If you decide to join the Infantry, the following is just a taste of what you will do.
The Combat Infantry course builds up skills and fitness at
a gradual pace. This involves learning individual skills, ending with an assessment in all subjects of which you have to be able to pass. During training, recruits are taught the importance of discipline, integrity, loyalty and respect for others. They learn that being a soldier is about putting others first and having the courage to know the right thing to do in any given situation.
In phase 1 of Army training, 12 weeks known as basic training, is where you’ll learn to become a soldier. You’ll be taught about what it means to be a soldier and how the Army works, as well as learning survival and fieldcraft skills, first aid, and how to use a rifle, among other weapons. You will also be working on your health and fitness levels.
One of our 2019 recruits here at ITC Catterick said: “During my phase 1 we deployed onto one of the best exercises I took part in during training - that exercise being URBAN EX. It taught me many new skills and provided me with basic knowledge
on fighting in a built-up urban environment. This included the clearance of the buildings methodically from ground floor up. During this exercise I came to understand the importance of teamwork and courage. The reason why courage plays a part and how to overcome it was all taught throughout MRT (Mental Residence Training) during my time at ITC Catterick”.
Phase 2 training is the ‘Special to Arm’ training that prepares soldiers to take their place in the field force unit of the Mercian Regiment. You will also complete your cat B theory training in phase 2, and if you pass this you will do your practical test at the end of the 26-week course.
Finally, it is then time for your pass off parade, which will be one of best days of your life in front of your family. You will then have a week off, after which you will then head to either the 1st or 2nd Battalion of the Mercian Regiment, depending on the choice made between you and the Regimental Shepherd during weeks 12 and 13.
In between both phases you will have ample opportunity
to speak with the Regimental Shepherd, who will advise you and answer any questions you may have concerning either of our battalions. He will advise you on the difference between the battalions, what they are both doing and where they are deploying in the future, as well as what you will do in the future when you pass out of ITC. The Mercian Regiment is one of the most operationally deployed Regiments in the British Army’s Infantry, which means a career as a soldier in the Mercian Regiment will take you across the world, from Canada, to Kenya, to the Falkland Islands, and more!
Are you interested in becoming a #MercianWarrior or perhaps know somebody interested in joining the Mercian Regiment? You can find out more by searching Mercian Regiment or Army Jobs online. Get in touch today!
THE MERCIAN EAGLE 83