The British Army
Alanah Kerr
Monday, May 10, 2010
I would make sure that the army was well paid, had the right equipment and only recruited people who really wanted to join.
It upsets me when I hear about our soldiers being killed in Afghanistan and Iraq. All I can think about is those they've left behind.
I can see why young people want to join the army. We've had soldiers coming to Rathbone centres and explaining all the qualifications and experience you can get. It keeps you fit, makes you disciplined and you can travel the world.
But too many people join because they're desperate. A friend of mine just signed up because he's got no GCSEs and reckons he has nothing else to do. He wants a job, a house and a girlfriend but I told him he won't get any of that if he's always travelling.
My brother was just like that — but we convinced him not to enlist. He's become a stay-at-home dad and I'm glad none of my family have gone to war.
Like nurses, the army do a great job and deserve more money than footballers get paid. But anyone thinking of joining should consider their options first and make sure life in the forces is what they really want.
Do you know a child or young person who could tell adults a thing or two? Email ross.watson@haymarket.com or call him on 020 8267 4703
