An Cosantóir

March 2020

An Cosantóir the official magazine of the Irish Defence Forces and Reserve Defence Forces.

Issue link: https://digital.jmpublishing.ie/i/1215504

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An Cosantóir March 2020 www.dfmagazine.ie 20 | BY PTE (2*) LUKASZ GANCARZ, D COY, 7 INF BN THE HISTORY Reserve Army is a concept known from as far as late Roman Empire, however it was really taking shape from the 18th Century England, where a force of part time/reserve officers were kept on pay, ready to be drafted into full time service in case of conflict. The Militia Act of 1757 gave Britain a legislative backing to create trained and somewhat professional reserve military formation. Across the globe, reserves were used in all roles of army functions, from providing logistics support to their fighting colleagues or taking an active part in battles, either alongside of a permanent army or on their own. Nowadays almost all countries have their own Army Re- serves, which in some cases work not only as a support to full time armed forces but as a reliable fighting formation, including active combat engagements on deployments abroad. The history of Irish Army Reserve dates to 1929, when the Volun- teer Reserve Force was established. Its roles were changing through the years; from being an auxiliary to Police and Army to becoming an armed formation on its own as An Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil (FCA) in 1947. From then on FCA was supporting the Permanent Defence Forces (PDF) and the First Line Reserve. The FCA had played a very important role during the Troubles working alongside the PDF. De- spite having its own issues with equipment and training standards, it was apparent that it is a viable project, which adds significant benefits not only to the Army but also and most importantly to the local communities. In 2005 the FCA was stood down and Reserve Defence Forces were established. From 2013, following the Single Force Concept, RDF became a part of the full-time units. Now there are over 1,800 Army Reserve personnel in active service. With a very effective media recruitment campaign the service should see a significant rise. MAKING OF POTENTIAL RECRUIT The first step in becoming a Reservist is an online registra- tion. This process is very similar to the Permanent Defence Forces recruitment competition. Soon after, potential recruits are invited to an interview stage in one of the Unit HQ's to which they applied. Met by usually two Officers and an NCO, recruits are asked very basic questions regarding their motivation, background and a few "curve balls" on how they would react to a stressful situation within the AR. Once successful, the time comes to test the fitness levels of candidates. Entry levels physical examination is very basic and does not present significant challenge to anyone who stays fit at a minimum level. To pass the test, candidate must do 20 push ups and sit ups – each exercise has a limit of 60 seconds for both male and female. This is followed by an aerobic capacity test were a 2.4km distance must be covered. When successful, the next step takes place in an army medical centre with a full and complex examination, which covers complex spectrum of tests from hearing to complete blood checks. With all tests passed, potential recruit is assigned to his Platoon where on the first training evening, all personnel are met by the Senior Officer and their new NCO's. In the background, potential recruits are checked by An Garda Vetting Bureau, which is the final step before they can be sworn in The first and very important step in becoming a solider, whether in permanent or reserve service is transitioning into army discipline. Every NCO puts much attention on preparing recruits for their training. As a first part, recruits are being accustomed to the basics of foot drill and Army Regulations in classrooms. The importance of uniform and soldier like presentation of the whole Platoon is highlighted, as well as personal grooming and hygiene standards. Usually training is carried out over one evening a week with an occasional weekend classes when required. After the recruits are sworn, they can receive their army numbers and uniforms. It is without a doubt one of the most significant moments, when a newly sworn recruit receives their kit for the first time. During the next few weeks, NCOs will ensure that every single platoon mem- ber knows and wear their uniform properly and with pride. Foot drill, AUG and FTT… Uniform care and presentation are a vital part of soldier's routines and so is his/her rifle. The Steyr AUG is a unique weapon system. With time and training, recruit learns to appreciate its simplicity in design, great ergonomics and a superb accuracy. Then comes a massive curveball. Foot drill with weapons. Preparation for marching with arms is another important drill for the young Army Reserve as they will quite often cover many official Ceremonial events, where they will have to display perfect skill and coordina- tion in front of members of the public. With an increasing pressure and expectations, recruits are getting ready for their first firing range, where they will have a chance to test their knowledge. Then comes the most anticipated moment of each recruit's ca- reer. Full Time Training. For a vast majority, this will be the first time where they are introduced to a military routine 24/7 for two weeks straight. For many, this time determines whether the Army Reserve is for them. For some this is the time during which they will discover that the army career is something that they want to do as a full- time soldier. One thing is certain: FTT forges friendships for life. This is the time where young soldiers are formed under a watchful eye of their NCOs and Officers. During this precious time, they will get the opportunity to learn some basic skills such as maintain- ing cleanliness of their quarters, how to pack their equipment for

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