Page 47 - RADC 2020

in Dodesheide. My final assignment in Germany was in 1 Medical Regiment in Münster, one of the first Dental Officers returning to serve in Medical Regiments under the Improved Medical Support to the Brigade initiative. It was here that I had the opportunity to experience a bit more that the Army had to offer. From being principally a Garrison asset to now being part of an individual Regiment, this allowed me to seize opportunities to deploy on exercises and take part in more sport and Adventure Training than I had previously been able to. With a strong recommendation from the Commanding Officer, this led me to request a place on Intermediate Command and Staff College (Land), my first UK assignment.
Despite some apprehension of being
able to ‘hold my own’ against my peers, ICSC(L) was, for the most part, a highly enjoyable and formative experience. With
a professional background, it was fairly simple to keep up with the work, with spare capacity to read around subjects that were less familiar. Clinical Professionally Qualified Officers were not alone in this, many other capbadges become deep specialists in their respective areas, and equally, need to catch- up on some areas of military knowledge. Changes such as the Junior Command and Staff course have ensured the playing field is now much more even for everyone.
Throughout my time as a Major within both staff and command appointments I
was able to maintain a routine of working one day per week in surgery. This seemed important to me, particularly as I reflect that much of what I had learned in surgery was just as applicable to the rest of my working week. People management, patience,
and the ability to see through processes
in a logical and constructive manner are
as important in non-clinical posts as they are clinical. From writing concepts and doctrine for drug development to supporting collective training across the world, there have been too many highlights to list. Sub- unit command is definitely worth a mention, but what I’ve appreciated most is the breadth and depth of experiences that have ensured that every day is different.
On promotion, before commencing my current assignment, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend Advanced Command and Staff College. A Defence course at
Joint Services Command and Staff College with participation from nations across the world. This was a fantastic year spent on my own personal development, gaining two master’s degrees and certification as having completed Permanent Staff College (Joint), a world-recognised Defence qualification. There are opportunities for Group B Officers to also attend, and I would recommend the course to everyone.
I hugely value the time I spent
delivering chairside dentistry; the skills
and temperament leant during those formative years have enabled me to be the best I can be in both command and staff environments. From this assignment to the next, as Commanding Officer of 3 Medical Regiment, I am sure that an ordinary day is something that will thankfully never happen.
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