Marking the important work of the Reserve Forces

The Reserve Forces are integral to protecting the nation’s security at home and overseas. Their contribution often goes unrecognised and as such an annual Reserves Day was created to highlight and recognise the valuable contribution Reservists make to the Armed Forces.

Administering justice

In an office block in London, Berni King works as a Court Clerk supporting the administration of justice at a London Family Court. But when she’s not behind her desk or in court, Berni takes on the challenge of being an Army Reservist.

In her spare time, Bernie is trained as an Army Driver with 124 Transport Squadron RLC based at Warley Army Reserve Centre in Essex. The Squadron’s role is to provide logistic support to 3 UK Division as part of the Army’s reaction force.

Berni says: “Being a member of the Reserve Forces has enabled me to fulfill my potential and face up to challenges not available in civilian life. Working as part of a team with like-minded people with strong bonds and shared values is extremely rewarding”.”

Reservist insight

Employers from the West Thurrock Co-op distribution centre received an insight of what it is like to be an Army Driver after a visit to their local Army Reserve Centre.

Co-Op Distribution centre Transport Operations manager Matt Hill and Team manager Kevin Harris were shown around the Reserve Centre by their employee Janusz Jakusz.

In his spare time Janusz develops his driving skills much further as an Army driver with 124 Transport Squadron based in Warley Essex.

Janusz who has served in the Reserves for six years says: “My employers are extremely supportive allowing me time to train and be ready to serve.

The training can be challenging and at times requires absolute commitment. Leadership skills I have developed have not just been on military exercises, in fact one of the highlights of my career has been an expedition to Everest Base Camp.”

This year’s Reserves Day was celebrated on Wednesday 26 Jun 2019.