Bassetlaw: County councillor Ian says becoming an RAF Reservist was the best decision of his life

In his day-to-day life, Ian, 28, represents the residents of Retford West at County Hall and helps to address concerns about their local area, while also working as a Branch Support Officer for the Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) to recruit new members.

Ian, who also used to sit on Bassetlaw Council, originally joined the RAF Reserve to gain new qualifications and skills separate to his full-time civilian career.

He explained: “I wanted to do something that wasn’t part of my everyday life, and learning new skills and meeting new people while retaining my full-time employment really appealed to me.

“Joining the RAF Reserve has helped me to learn more about an environment I knew nothing about, as well as gaining new qualifications to successfully get a new job.”

“By joining the RAF as a Reservist you commit to 27 days service per year, which includes two weeks of general RAF training, and at least 12 weekend or holiday days for additional training, trade training, or training exercises.”

The 504 Squadron is responsible for providing a unit of trained and equipped logistics personnel to support the RAF on operations, both at home and abroad.

“My role at the squadron compliments my position with RAFA by enabling me to identify with the Service family and environment,” continued Ian.

“Military team building and leadership exercises have boosted my effectiveness as a councillor and raised my standing amongst the electorate.”

Ian added that since joining the Reserves in January 2014 he has had the chance to travel abroad with members of his squadron where he has taken part in activities including parading, shooting, scuba diving, and learning to parachute.

“I have done so much while serving with 504 Squadron and fully believe that becoming a Reservist was one of the best decisions I have made,” he said.

“I would encourage anyone to join the RAF as a Reservist as you get the best of both worlds and there is always something new and exciting to get involved in.”

The 504 (County of Nottingham) Squadron are recruiting now.

To find out more, contact 0345 6069069 or search online at the website at www.raf.mod.uk