RMR Brochure

A guide to opportunities

The Royal MarinesCommando Reserves

DNR_0300_L2_RMR_artwork.qxd 22/5/07 13:11

Elite Commandos 2 Become a Commando Reservist 4 Life without limits 6

Commando training 8 Specialist training 14 On operations 20

Make the commitment 22 How to join 24 Your local Unit 26

Contents

Introduction

Elite C


Royal Marines Reserves 2 3

When you earn your green beret and become a Royal Marines Commando, you are joining one of the world’s elite fighting forces.

As an elite Royal Marines Reserve (RMR) Commando, you will face some tough challenges and will need to be fit, determined and highly motivated. In return, you will get to go to places and do things that most people onlydream of; you will meet an incredible group of people, and make the closestfriends you have ever had.

Do you have what it takes to be part of this elite team?

If you want a real challenge in your spare time, use this brochure to find outmore about the opportunities available in the RMR and how you can join.

The Royal Marines Commando Reserves are a highly trained, specialised team, which works alongside theRegular Royal Marines on land, at sea and in the air.

‘Training in the Royal Marines Reserve will push you to thelimit both mentally and physically, especially as you have to balance training with your civilian life. The bonds forgedwith your new mates during training are unlike any othersand it is this unique spirit of teamwork that gets guysthrough. I would definitely recommend it to anyone seeking the ultimate challenge in their spare time.’ Owen Balash, 19, Administrator

e Commandos


Royal Marines Commando Reservist

The RMR are unique amphibious Commandos, providing support for the RegularRoyal Marines anywhere in the world, from counter-terrorism to peacekeepingduties, on Commando operations or providing disaster relief.

What it means to be a ReservistRoyal Marines Reservists come from all walks of life, from students to labourers,and self-employed tradesmen to managing directors. Most have never had anymilitary experience, although former Royal Marines, or those from otherServices, are very warmly welcomed.

All Royal Marines Reservists have to pass the same rigorous Commando tests as the Regular Royal Marines. This will make you part of an elite fighting force,trained and equipped to carry out operations in extremely hostile conditionsfrom the Arctic to deep jungle, and from mountains to barren deserts, anywherein the world. Not only that, but you will then be given the opportunity tospecialise in an area of Commando training or warfare.

Become a Comma

‘I joined the RMR to be deployed, for the challenge and tobe the best. I really enjoy the social life out with the lads,and the best thing I have done is a week in Germany on adventure training.’

Basic requirements British, Irish and Commonwealth citizens may join the RMR. Nationality restrictionsmay apply for certain specialisations. Only men can serve in the RMR.

You need to be between 16 and 32 years old, though in exceptional circumstancesenlistment after the age of 32 may be authorised, and age limits do not apply toapplicants with former Regular or Reserve service. All applicants under the age of17 must have parental consent at the time of application. All applicants must bephysically fit and able to meet the same entry standards as the Regular RoyalMarines, which are explained later in this brochure.



mando Reservist

The Royal Marines Reserves (RMR) is an integral partof the UK’s Armed Forces and now, more than everbefore, is a ‘Reserve for use’ – ready, trained andcapable of seamless integration into the RegularCorps on operations anywhere in the world.


Up for adventure? There are opportunities to takepart in activities that you may have only dreamed of. Divingexpeditions in the Red Sea, iceclimbing in Canada, sailing acrossthe Atlantic with the Tall ShipsRace, sport parachuting inAmerica, downhill skiing, kayaking,and ascents of Everest, Mont Blanc,Annapurna and Mount McKinley inAlaska… these are just some of theadventurous activities that RoyalMarines Reservists have taken partin over the last few years. The RMRcan offer time and funding for allranks to participate in adventuretraining, which can take place allover the world ranging from majorexpeditions to trying somethingnew that you have always wantedto do.

Opportunities to play sportAs a Reservist, you will be able to make use of a wide variety ofexcellent sports facilities for free.There are many sports clubs onoffer, ranging from rugby toboxing, climbing to water polo,squash to cricket and many, manymore. The list is long and keeps ongrowing. Ranks within RMR Unitshave regularly represented theRoyal Marines at the Inter-ForcesChampionships in boxing, football,rugby, skiing and biathlon.

Life without limits

Being part of the RMR brings plenty of challenges – physical and mental – but also the opportunity to travel, serve your country and have some incredible experiences, with the best mates of your life.

Are you up for it?



If you complete your minimumannual training commitmentsatisfactorily, you can also benefitfrom an annual tax-free lump sum(referred to as a ‘bounty’). Thiscurrently ranges from £395 in yourfirst year up to £1,556 per yearafter five years.

Corps spiritBeing a Royal Marines Reservist is more than just something to do in your spare time. It is acommitment to being part ofsomething incredibly special. Youcan be sure that no matter whereyou are or what you do, the mennext to you will help you through.There will always be time tosocialise, as Royal Marines not only work hard but play hard too!

See the worldYou will have plenty of opportunityto travel in the RMR, as many ofthe training exercises take placeabroad, in Norway, the Caribbeanand Sierra Leone, for instance.And RMR personnel have recentlyserved on operations in Bosnia,Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. You will get the chance to seesome unusual places andexperience different cultures.

Transferable skills All Royal Marines Reservists arefirst and foremost Commandos,and earning the coveted greenberet is a huge achievement initself. In addition, whatever rankyou are, you will gain strongorganisational and leadership skills,an incredible self-confidence andgreatly improved communicationskills – all qualities that employersfind very appealing in an individual.

Get paidUnlike most volunteer roles, onceaccepted into the RMR you will getpaid for any training and work thatyou do.

‘The most important thing is how much of a laugh it is. Yes, the training’s toughbut it’s also a real laugh, and you’ll gain experiences that you’ll never forget.’Matthew Doherty, 33, Commercial Director

‘I went to Norway last year for twoweeks of mountain and cold weather warfare training. I also took part in the Royal Navy SkiingChampionships in the French Alpsand won the novices category, which meant winning a pair of skis!’Dave Roberts, 38, Tree Surgeon


Training

SupportCommando training is tough – it has to be. But we want you tosucceed and if things ever becometoo much for you, there will beplenty of people on hand to giveyou help and advice.

Have you got what it takes?RMR Basic Training and theCommando Course are not for the faint hearted. It requires realcommitment and determination,

Rise to the challengeThroughout your training, yourstrength and determination will be tested and you will need towork as part of a team – perhapsthe most essential skill of anyRoyal Marine.

When you complete your training,you will have been pushed to thelimits of your endurance. You willhave learned to fight and survivein the toughest conditions and willbe more mature, more focusedand more determined, fit andstrong. Above all, you will be a Royal Marines Commando,entitled to wear the coveted green beret with pride.

Commandotraining

Did you know?Commando training is unique. It is one of the longest, toughestmilitary training courses in theworld. The Royal Marines are theonly force in the UK to train bothOfficers and other ranks alongsideeach other, at the same place andto the same high standards.

Commando Reservists receive exactly the same rigorous, world-class training as theirRegular counterparts, which means that they can serve alongside Regular Royal Marines to fill gaps and replace men with specialist skills.

as it will put great demands onyour spare time and dedication. In order to complete RMR BasicTraining and prepare for theCommando Course, you will berequired to attend training at yourRMR Unit during evenings andweekends. In addition when nottraining with the RMR, you willhave to work on your physicalfitness in your own time.

‘It is hard to put into words what earning the green beretmeans. It is so much more than just a beret; your wholepersonality and bearing changes the minute you put your beret on. The sense of pride and achievement is immense. To buy a green beret costs pounds, to earn one, well... that’s priceless!’



Basic Training for RMR recruits is divided into three parts:

Phase 1 – Individual Skills Training You must complete seven trainingweekends and one training eveninga week over a period of at least six months, plus a two-week courseat the Commando Training CentreRoyal Marines (CTCRM) inLympstone, Devon.

Phase 2 – Tactical Trainingand the Commando Course You will be required to completeeight training weekends and onetraining evening a week over aperiod of about six months, plus the two-week Commando Course at CTCRM.

Continuation Training –Advanced Tactics andCommando skills This will involve two separate one-week courses.

MarksmanshipYour marksmanship will bedeveloped during basic trainingand tested under pressure duringthe Commando Course andContinuation Training. Capcomforters were worn originallyby the first Commandos in WorldWar II. Today they are worn whileundertaking the gruellingCommando Course.

RMR Basic Training

‘Passing Phase 1 training made me feel I had got a step closer to where I want to be; it is challenging but enjoyable.’ Scott White, 17, student (new recruit)


Phase 1 training

Navigation You will be taught how to read amap and use a compass, and tonavigate yourself across all typesof terrain by day and night.

Weapon training Your personal weapon will be the 5.56mm rifle; you will beinstructed thoroughly in its useand how to maintain it. Do notworry if you have never handled arifle before, during Phase 1 it willbecome second nature. You willalso complete a live firing test.

‘Passing the Phase 1 Course was the culmination of hard training and a personal achievement far beyond what I thought I was capable of when I first joined.’ Recruit Adams, 26, Occupational Health Nurse

Physical training Physical training or ‘Phys’ as it isknown in the Corps will help youbuild on your own personal trainingto prepare you for the fourCommando tests. The training istough and you will need to beprepared to put the effort in, inyour own time.

Phase 1 Course at CTCRMThis two-week course at Lympstone,Devon, confirms what you havelearned before you progress ontothe next stage of training. You willgain an insight into the Commandotests and will complete Phase 1recruit weapon training,camouflage and concealment, anda timed assault course assessment.

Individual skills trainingPhase 1 lasts for approximately six to eight months and is thebeginning of RMR Basic Training.Here you will be trained in avariety of individual skills andfieldcraft. On completion of yourPhase 1 training, you will berequired to attend a two-weekcourse at CTCRM.

Basic fieldcraftYou will be shown how to lookafter yourself in the field to stayhealthy and fit to fight. You willlearn how to construct differenttypes of shelters (‘bivvies’), andhow to cook different types ofration pack, as well as theimportant art of camouflage and concealment.

Training



Phase 2 trainingPhase 2 training lasts for about sixmonths and is designed to equipyou with the skills, tactics andknowledge required to act as aRifleman in a Commando Unit. It also prepares you for the rigoursof the Commando Course. At theend of your Phase 2 training, youwill attend the two-weekCommando Course.

Battle Preparation Training Battle Preparation Training isdesigned to develop physicalmilitary skills, strength andendurance. You will be pushedbeyond what you thought wasyour limit and realise that you can do more.

All physical training is now donecarrying your rifle, weighing 4.6kg,and wearing your personal load-carrying equipment. ThroughoutPhase 2 training, weight will begradually added to this until itweighs the 10kg plus rifle requiredfor the Commando Course.

Fieldcraft and tacticsThe development of yourindividual and fieldcraft skillscontinues. Tactical instructionbegins with basic patrollingtechniques before moving onto reconnaissance patrols,observation posts, fighting patrols and ambushes.

Phase 2 training andthe Commando Course


Commando Course The two-week Commando Courseat CTCRM is the culmination ofyour Basic Training. The courseadds to your Commando skills andassesses whether your professionaland physical abilities are of thestandard required to be aCommando and wear the covetedgreen beret. During your course,you will complete the following:

• Helicopter drills – you will learnhow to operate tactically usinghelicopters, and practiseunderwater escape techniques.

• Cliff assault training – you willlearn how to climb, abseil and useother specialist roping techniquesto conduct cliff assaults.

• Survival training – you will betaught to survive off the land.These skills include buildingshelters, making fires, huntingtechniques and water collection.

Commando TestsThese are all completed carryingyour weapon and personal load-carrying equipment. They consist of:

1. The endurance course –running and crawling throughtwo miles of tunnels, waterpools, streams and bogs,before a four-mile run back to camp, all in less than 73minutes. Finally, you have to pass a shooting test.

2. A nine-mile speed march(run/walk), done as a troop,which you have to complete in just 90 minutes.

3. The Tarzan assault course – anaerial slide, ropes course, assaultcourse and 30-foot wall, whichyou have to complete in only 13 minutes.

4. A 30-mile march across therough countryside and hills ofDartmoor. You will have to workas a team to get to the endwithin the eight hours allowed.

Green beretAfter you complete the 30-milemarch across Dartmoor, it will be a proud moment when you finallyreceive the coveted green beretand become part of an elitefighting force, renowned andrespected worldwide.

‘I knew if I could complete the Commando Course and earn my green beret I could handle any situation that civilian life could throw at me.’Andy Martin, 35, Technical Sales Engineer (new recruit)

Training



Live Field Firing Exercise You will take part in realistic livefiring exercises using all theweapons you have been trainedon plus a few more! You willdevelop your shooting skillsthrough live firing troop attacks.You will quickly learn to trust the men around you and actresponsibly and professionally in a realistic environment. In additionto firing small arms, you will throwlive grenades, fire the machineguns and the under-slung grenade launcher.

Amphibious Exercise You will be taught how tooperate from rigid raiding craftand landing craft during anamphibious exercise, in whichRoyal Marines conduct raids fromthe sea, a unique capability ofRoyal Marines Commandos.

Continuation TrainingContinuation Training will build on what you learned during yourCommando Course, giving you theremaining skills and knowledge youwill need to serve with the RoyalMarines on exercise or operations.Continuation Training is normallyconducted over a period of twoweeks, usually divided into twoseparate week-long courses basedat CTCRM. You will learn additionalCommando skills and improve youroperational capabilities during livefiring and amphibious exercises andoperations from the new Viking all-terrain vehicle.

Viking All-Terrain VehicleThe Viking is the new RoyalMarines armoured vehicle. You willbe taught how to deploy tacticallyfrom this vehicle in simulatedbattle situations.

Further training andSpecialist QualificationTrainingOn completion of yourContinuation Training, you will beconsidered a fully trained RoyalMarines Commando capable ofserving with the Regular Corps on operations. You are now ableto embark on further training,such as jungle or mountain andcold weather warfare training. In time, you will also have theopportunity to attend specialistcourses and gain SpecialistQualifications such as AssaultEngineer, Heavy Weapons orReconnaissance Operator.

Continuation Training –advanced tactics andamphibious skills


Specialist training

Specialist t



t training

‘The RMR has a good reputation, and is really closely aligned to the Regular Corps .We do the same training, have to pass the same physical tests and be of an equally high standard of fitness.’ Ed James, 27Lance Corporal, General Duties

All Royal Marines are trained first and foremost as General Duties Marines beforespecialising in different roles, where any previous military experience may be taken into account. As a General Duties Rifleman, you will build up your Commando skills and have the chance to test them on exercises. You could serve with a Commando Unit deployed on operations anywhere in the world.


DriverRapid deployment givesCommandos a tactical advantagein combat situations. As a Driver,you will be trained to operate a range of vehicles, such ascustomised Land Rovers, heavysupport vehicles and the Vikingarmoured vehicle.

General Purpose MachineGun Sustained Fire (GPMG SF)This is a portable, tripod-mounted,fully automatic machine gunsystem, which delivers high ratesof fire at long ranges, by day andnight. Its roles are to protecttroops in defensive positions andsupport troops during attacks. As a GPMG SF Specialist, you will become part of a two-mangun team controlled by a Gun Line Commander.

Specialist training

VikingThe Viking all-terrain vehicle,designed and produced exclusivelyfor the Royal Marines.

Anti-TanksTanks and armoured vehicles arethe most powerful weapons inland warfare. As an Anti-TankSpecialist, you will be trained toidentify enemy armour and vehiclesand use the Javelin anti-tankmissile system to destroy them.

Assault EngineerAssault Engineers are trained in construction, demolition, mine clearance and engineerreconnaissance. As an AssaultEngineer you will build bridges,field defences and obstacles andbecome an explosives expert.

Drill InstructorAs a Drill Instructor, you will playan important part in turning rawrecruits into fully trainedCommandos. You will also beresponsible for ceremonial drillduring local and national events.

Depending on which Unit you are in, you can train in one of the followingspecialist areas.



Heavy Machine Gun (HMG)The HMG is a formidable weaponthat can be either vehicle-mountedor man-portable. It is capable ofengaging targets at up to 4.5kmaway. As a member of an HMGcrew, you will be taught to handleand fire the weapon and thespecialist tactics involved.

Landing CraftLanding Craft Specialists areresponsible for transporting RoyalMarines Commandos from ship toshore. To carry out your tasks, youwill be trained to drive small, high-speed raiding craft such as rigidraiders, inflatable raiding craft andthe new offshore raiding craft.


Specialist training

‘The proudest achievements of my life were getting the green beret and getting asuperior pass on my landing craft course. I am now a coxswain on high-speed rigidraiding craft, inflatable raiding craft and the new offshore raiding craft which is great!‘ Marine Piddington, 29, Dry Liner

MortarsMortars are an important part of the Royal Marines’ arsenal,enabling us to attack enemyforces from nearly 6km away.Mortarmen within the RMR aretrained in a wide range ofprofessional skills, learning to operate the mortars andaccurately direct fire onto targets.

Physical Training InstructorGetting recruits fit – and keepingCommandos in peak physicalcondition – is the role of PhysicalTraining Instructors. You will alsotrain personnel in all kinds ofskills, including unarmed combat,swimming, sports andadventurous training.

Reconnaissance OperatorAs a Reconnaissance Operator, youwill be the unseen eyes and earsof a Commando Unit providingadvanced knowledge of enemynumbers and positions. You willspecialise in climbing and cliffassault techniques.

Swimmer CanoeistSwimmer Canoeists are membersof the Special Boat Service (SBS),part of the UK’s Special Forces. To join the SBS, you will have to pass the UK Special ForcesSelection Course. You will then be trained to the highest standardsin surveillance, reconnaissance,parachuting and survival skills.

Tactical Air Control Party(TACP)A TACP team has four members,including one Officer. The role ofthis very professional small team is to identify targets and direct fast jets to attack them using laser technology.

SignalsSignals Specialists providecommunications to land, sea andair forces for Commandos in thefield. You will be trained tooperate a variety of radios.

Skill At Arms InstructorSkill At Arms Instructors (SAA) areexperts in the weapon systems ofthe Royal Marines. You will beresponsible for all training on smallarms including weapon handlingand marksmanship, vital skills forevery Royal Marine.

SniperYou will be trained in mapreading, observation and live firingand you will be tasked to fire onthe enemy from long-rangeconcealed positions. Snipers workin two-man teams, independentfrom the rest of a Unit for longperiods of time. You will need tohave keen eyesight and be able toperform well under pressure.



Officerspecialisations

‘I joined the RMR to be deployed, to take on the challenges, and for thevarious skills I would learn. Since joining I have been on jungle training to Sierra Leone and trained as a specialist in sustained fire with general purposemachine guns. I love the social life and go out regularly with the lads.’ Matt Lyons, 36, self-employed

In addition to most of the SpecialistQualifications already listed, thereare specific specialisations open toOfficers only. The selection processfor potential candidates isparticularly stringent. Any applicantwishing to become an Officer in theRMR must first qualify as a RoyalMarines Commando before theywill be considered.

Forward Air ControllerAs a Forward Air Controller, youwill be responsible for a small teamthat can work independently andcovertly for a protracted period oftime, and your leadership andsoldiering skills must be welldeveloped. Your role is to guideattack aircraft and fast jets to the correct target by providingdescriptions and locations to the pilots using a range ofcommunications equipment.

Landing Craft OfficerLanding Craft Officers arespecialists in amphibiousoperations. You will be trained toplan and oversee beach assaultsand raiding operations, commandlanding craft and supervise theirmaintenance.

Media OperationsThe regular deployment of Royal Marines on operations andexercises worldwide attracts hugemedia interest. The very potentsymbol of Commando forcesappearing on foreign soil sends amessage about the capability andintent of the UK’s Armed Forces. It is vital that the media areproperly looked after and giventhe correct information in a timelymanner. You could become one of the specialists who carry outthis important role.


On operations

It is almost inevitable that at some time during your service with the RMRthat you will have to go on an operational tour. Recently, the RMR has seen active service alongside Regular Royal Marines in Bosnia, Kosovo, Sierra Leone, the Caribbean, Iraq and Afghanistan.

What were the highlightsof your time onoperations?The highlight for me was seeingthe joy in the faces of the localswhen we cleared the rebels fromthe town. Overall it was a superbexperience, with great banter andcamaraderie in a stunning part of the world. At the end of theoperation, we even managed to spend a day on the beach.

Sierra Leone 2000

We deployed into Sierra Leone to evacuate Britishnationals and secure populated areas from rebelfighters.

On operations

Name Adam PalmerReservist role Marineand rankCivilian Unemployedoccupation

What qualities or skills didyou need to do this?Determination, fitness, courage; youneed to understand where the localpopulation is coming from and havea high level of field skills to operatein the jungle against people whowere born there.

What were the mostchallenging things thathappened?The most challenging thing for mewas when we were part of a screenforce defending a vital road junctionwhilst constantly under the threat ofinfiltration from rebels. Our positionwas attacked and we had to defendourselves by firing our 81mmmortars throughout the night andnext day until the enemy withdrew.

ON OPS

Afghanistan September 2006

I deployed to Afghanistan as a member of anOperational MentoringLiaison Team. The purposeof this team is to integratewith the fledgling AfghanNational Army, and providethem with assistance andguidance. We provide themwith training to augmentthe basic military instructionthey receive in Kabul. Moreoften than not this istraining on the job, i.e.while deployed in hostileareas such as the Helmandprovince. We also advise the Troop and SectionCommanders on low-leveltactics during live firefightswith the Taleban.


Operation Telic, Iraq 2003 and 2005

My first experience in Iraq was as a junior non-commissioned Officer in the Heavy Machine GunTroop of 42 Commando Royal Marines. I integratedfully into the Troop, taking part in operations on theAl-Faw peninsula, specifically in the Umm Qasr and Al-Basrah areas.

In 2005, on Operation Telic 6, I was the TroopCommander and the Troop’s task was to provide forceprotection for the Royal Navy, which was providingtraining to the fledgling Iraqi Navy at a base near UmmQasr. After a few weeks, we were also responsible forprotection of vehicle convoys. This was the first timethat the RMR had deployed under its own commandstructure rather than being integrated into separateparts of a Regular Unit, and I felt very fortunate to bethe Commander.

ON OPSName Paul BurnhamReservist role Commanding and rank Birmingham

Detachment of RMR Merseyside, Captain

Civilian Firefighteroccupation (District Commander)

6

ON OPSName Peter RobertsReservist role Mortar Troop and rank Section Commander,

SergeantCivilian Building Servicesoccupation Technician

What qualities or skills did you need to do this?Communication skills across alllevels of rank are vital, particularlywith the language barrier and theneed to get the message acrossduring a firefight. The ability towork alone, giving advice whenunder severe pressure; rapiddecision making under severepressure; knowledge of tactics andweapon systems; and a dark senseof humour!

Was the experience whatyou were expecting? Yes. The information given before I was mobilised and during theoperational training package stoodme in good stead and gave me anunderstanding of the situation inthe Helmand province.

What were the keyachievements of your time on operations?It is satisfying to see the difference,however small, that we are makingon the ground, both in terms ofimproving the Afghan NationalArmy, helping them to stand ontheir own feet and also improvingthe situation for the people ofAfghanistan. I am also verypleased that all my hard years of training have come to fruition.

What else do you feelabout your experience on operations?To know that all the hard work youdo throughout training, keeping ahigh level of fitness and having agood sense of humour preparesyou for whatever challenges lifethrows at you.


What qualities or skills didyou need to do this?Managerial and interpersonal skills,confidence and resilience, tacticalawareness, communication andanalytical skills, political awareness,delegation and administrativeskills, assertiveness and flexibility.

What were the keyachievements of your time on operations? Having been in that area onOperation Telic two years before,one of the highlights was to seethe progress that isn’t reported inthe press. The people have movedforward dramatically since 2003;schools were full and childrenwere happy.

Two key achievements were safelybringing back all of the Marinesand Non-Commissioned Officers for whom I was responsible andrecovering an unmanned US Navyaerial vehicle that had crashed onthe Al-Faw peninsula.


Commitment

Make thecommitment

To do this you have to be welltrained. After your basic training is completed, you will need tomaintain your skill. This meansregularly attending mid-weektraining evenings and on averageone weekend’s training a month.In addition, you will need to do at least a two-week continuoustraining course each year.

If you complete your minimumtraining commitment satisfactorily,you can also benefit from anannual tax-free bounty, asexplained on page 7.

Deployments can vary from twoweeks up to six months andprovide RMR ranks with excellentscope to learn and develop newskills. These opportunities occur ona regular basis and are advertisedwithin the RMR Units. You willhave the opportunity to bemobilised once you have been fullytrained, which means completingPhases 1 and 2 Training andContinuation Training.

As a Reservist, you play a crucial role in the defence andprotection of the country. The RMR is very much a force foruse, and all ranks have the opportunity to serve with theRegular Corps around the world, on exercise or operations.

‘I think the benefits that are brought back into the workplaceare certainly demonstrated in terms of being a self-starter,working off one’s own initiative, having an energeticapproach, etc. I think it also demonstrates that they’reprepared to work as a team, which is a definite benefit to Sony.’ Niels Thomas, Sony



‘The NHS has traditionally supported the Reserves to quite a strong degree,and we make it work because, as an organisation, we need to be flexibleto get people with the highest level of skills. And we feel that being aReservist gives them enormous life experience and makes them a morerounded person, and that is what they bring back to the organisation.’Anne Coutes, Director of Workforce, United Bristol Health Care Trust

Full-time opportunitiesRegular opportunities arise toserve full time in the RegularCorps under a Full-Time ReserveService contract. These roles willnormally be for up to two years,but could be renewed for up to a maximum of six years and youwill get paid the same as a Regularrank equivalent. These opportunitieswill be advertised by your Unit.

Supporting you and your employer Supporting Britain’s Reservists andEmployers (SaBRE) exists to provideinformation to employers about thebenefits of employing Reservists,and provides support for employersand Reservists by offeringinformation about their rights and commitments.

It is important during times ofoperational deployment that youremain confident about your civilianemployment, and understand thesupport and commitment that will be given to both you and your employer.

SaBRE’s website (sabre.mod.uk)is well worth visiting. It offersadvice on how to balance yourcommitments to the RMR andyour civilian job. It explains how to get your employer’s support for your membership of the RMR,what happens if you are mobilisedand your rights and responsibilitiesas a Reservist. You could alsosuggest to your employer that theyvisit the website. There is a wholesection specifically designed foremployers, including how they will receive compensation if youare mobilised.

‘I was deployed to Iraq for three months last year. We took over from the Regular Royal Marines and the role was to provide protection on the boats and on the roads for the Royal Navy. It was an amazing experience and a real learning one. It’s very different from what you learn in training, because the stakes are so much higher. You come back feeling more confident in all the things we train for.’ Ed James, 27, Lance Corporal


How to join

Joining

If you are interested in joining the RMR there are a number ofways for you to get in touch, and we have tried to make therecruitment process as easy and flexible as possible.

The selection process If you decide to apply then you will go through the following selection process(though the order may vary slightly):

• Visit your nearest RMR Unit for a detailed briefing on the RMR (have a lookat pages 26–27 to see which is the Unit nearest to you).

• Complete the application forms.

• Attend a joining interview.

• Complete the recruitment tests – the standard naval entrance tests of yourEnglish, maths and technical aptitude, which are a mixture of multiple choiceand simple written answers.

• Complete the Pre-Joining Fitness Test – a 2.4km run in 10 minutes 45 seconds.

• Attend a medical assessment.

• Attend an eyesight test.

• Security clearance process.

• Attend a selection/confirmation weekend to confirm that you have thedetermination and general aptitude to become a Royal Marines Commando.



Get in touch

If you want more information oradvice about joining the RoyalMarines Reserves, you cancontact us at any time. In addition, you can always look at our website(royalnavy.mod.uk), whichhas lots more detail about boththe Royal Marines Reserves andthe Regular Corps.

Alternatively, you can visit yournearest Armed Forces CareersOffice (the details will be listedin your local phone directory),and talk to one of ourexperienced Careers Advisers.

Included in this brochure is anRMR DVD which will give you a deeper insight into what theRMR is really like. If you do nothave a DVD, or would likeanother for a friend, then justcall your nearest RMR Unit andthey will send you one.

Globe and LaurelThe cap badge of the RoyalMarines has significant meaning:

The Lion and the Crown is thedistinguishing badge of a RoyalRegiment. The Royal Marines Corpswas awarded the title of ‘Royal’ by King George III in 1802.

The Globe was granted by KingGeorge IV in 1827 in place of the 109 battle honours which the Royal Marines earned.

The Laurels were granted for thegallantry displayed by the Marinesin the capture of Belle Isle in 1761.

The Corps Motto, Per Mare Per Terram, ‘By Sea, By Land’,epitomises the Royal Marines’ability to conduct amphibiousexpeditionary warfare anywhere in the world.

Royal Marines Reserves Units hold regular briefings in theevening for those who are interested in joining. Times and dates will vary by local arrangement. To find out more, justphone your local Unit and go along and see what it is like foryourself. The phone numbers are listed on pages 26–27.


Joining

Your local Unit

If you are up for the challenge of becoming a Royal Marines Reservist, or if you just want to findout more about us and meet some CommandoReservists, come along to your local Unit.

RMR Merseyside has detachments in:

LiverpoolRMR Merseyside (HQ and Liverpool Detachment) Naval Regional HQEast Brunswick DockLiverpoolL3 4DZFreephone: 0800 783 9529

BirminghamRMR Merseyside (Birmingham Detachment)c/o HMS Forward42 Tilton RoadBirminghamB9 4PPFreephone: 0800 783 9529

ManchesterRMR Merseyside(Manchester Detachment)TA Centre215 Upper Chorlton RoadManchesterM16 0BHFreephone: 0800 783 9529

BristolRMR Bristol(HQ and Bristol Detachment)Dorset HouseLittlefield PlaceCliftonBristolBS8 3NATel: 01179 733523

CardiffRMR Bristol (Cardiff Detachment)TA Centre Morgan Street CardiffCF10 4FGTel: 01179 733523

LympstoneRMR Bristol (Lympstone Detachment)Commando Training CentreLympstoneDevonEX8 5ARTel: 01179 733523

PlymouthRMR Bristol (Plymouth Detachment)Millbay TA CentreCitadel RoadPlymouthPL1 3BQTel: 01179 733523

PooleRMR Bristol (Poole Detachment)RM PooleHamworthyPooleDorsetBH15 4NQTel: 01179 733523

RMR Bristol has detachments in:

‘Being a Royal Marines Reservist teaches you an awful lotabout yourself. When you’re out in the field and it’s absolutely freezing it tests your self-motivation. If people have got the motivation to do it, they’ll get the green beret.’ Dave Roberts, 38, Tree Surgeon


RMR London has detachments in:

LondonRMR London(HQ and London Detachment)2 Old Jamaica RoadBermondseyLondonSE16 4AN Tel: 020 7237 4331

ChathamRMR London(Chatham Detachment)Collingwood BlockKhyber RoadChathamKentME4 4TTTel: 020 7237 4331

Henley-on-ThamesRMR London(Henley Detachment)RFCA CentreFriday StreetHenley-on-ThamesOxfordshireRG9 1AMTel: 020 7237 4331

PortsmouthRMR London(Portsmouth Detachment)Building 185HMS ExcellentWhale IslandPortsmouthHampshirePO2 8ERTel: 020 7237 4331

NewcastleRMR Tyne(Newcastle Detachment)Anzio HouseQuay SideNewcastle upon TyneNE6 1BUFreephone: 0800 032 5094

LeedsRMR Tyne(Leeds Detachment)Ceres DivisionCarlton BarracksCarlton GateLeeds LS7 1HEFreephone: 0800 032 5094

Royal Marines Reserves 2726

RMR Scotland has detachments in:

GlasgowRMR Scotland(Glasgow Detachment) 37–51 Birkmyre RoadGovanGlasgowG51 3JHFreephone: 0800 085 7179

EdinburghRMR Scotland(Edinburgh Detachment) HMS CaledoniaRosythFifeKY11 2XHFreephone: 0800 085 7179

GreenockRMR Scotland(Greenock Detachment) Navy BuildingsEldon StreetGreenockPA16 7SLFreephone: 0800 085 7179

DundeeRMR Scotland(Dundee Detachment) TA CentreStrathmore AvenueDundeeDD3 6SQFreephone: 0800 085 7179

AberdeenRMR Scotland(Aberdeen Detachment) Gordon BarracksBridge of DonAberdeenAB23 8DBFreephone: 0800 085 7179

InvernessRMR Scotland(Inverness Detachment) TA UnitGordonville RoadInvernessIV2 4SUFreephone: 0800 085 7179

RMR Tyne has detachments in:


How to apply

Contact us:

• Call your local RMR Unit (see pages 26–27) and ask to attend a briefing.

• Visit your nearest Armed Forces Careers Office (AFCO) and go to the Royal Navy desk.

• If unsure which Unit/AFCO to call, then phone08456 07 55 55.

This publication is for guidance only. The facts in it may be changed without notice and must notbe taken to imply any contract. Details of length of service will be explained in the Armed ForcesCareers Office and will be contained in the contract.L2/RMR

Equal opportunitiesThe Royal Navy is an equal opportunities employer. We seek to provideworkplace conditions that are comfortable and non-threatening for all our people, whatever their gender, ethnic origin or sexual orientation.

Our aim is the total elimination of sexual and racial harassment, andall forms of bullying. These issues need close attention and proactivemanagement. Victims of any form of abuse are encouraged to reporttheir difficulties and can be confident of sensitive treatment by thoseresponsible for their care.

A guide to opportunities

The Royal MarinesCommando Reserves


RMR Brochure

Documents

Transcript of RMR Brochure