Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter
June 2025
Our Vision
“To be an enduring and essential pillar in the delivery of support for the well-being of the Reserves and Cadets and, through our effectiveness and our position in the regions, to be the independent body that represents their interests and promotes understanding between the Armed Forces and civil society”
LATEST NEWS
ARMED FORCES WEEK & RESERVES DAY 2025
This week is a chance to recognise the Armed Forces Community – from Regulars, Reserves, Veterans, Cadets and their families.
Show your support and find events happening for Armed Forces Day near you here
RESERVES NEWS
Championing the Value of Reserve Service
871 TRANSPORT SQUADRON
871 Transport Squadron, 151 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps is a modern, diverse, technology advanced and forward looking Reserve Regiment.
Equipped with the latest logistic vehicles, they maintain a world class capability through purposeful training in the pursuit for professional excellence. Available roles include:
Driver
Driver Communications Specialist
Chef
Combat Medical Technician
Royal Logistic Corps Officer
HR Specialist
Contact: 0777 938 4790 or
151RLC-RecruitingCell@mod.gov.uk
RAF RESERVES FORCE DEVELOPMENT TRIP 2025
622 Squadron’s annual Force Development trip took them to Belgium and Holland to examine the use of airdrop in offensive and humanitarian operations during WW2. They included the involvement of 622 Sqn in Operations INFATUATE and MANNA. A commemoration was also held for the crew of a 622 Sqn Lancaster that was downed in action. The team took the opportunity to pay their respects through a short service and laying of crosses on the graves of a Lancaster crew that crashed, killing all on board whilst returning from a bombing mission in Germany…read more.
7 RIFLES RESERVE SHOOTING CHAMPIONS!
Last month we told you about 7 Rifles’ success at the 3UK Division Reserve shooting competition…and we are delighted to report that the team have gone on to WIN the Army Operational Shooting Competition held at Bisley. 
“I now sleep better in my Basha than I do in my own bed!” – Private Tyler Burnell, C Company, 3 PWRR
By day, Tyler works full-time in a desk job. But as a Reservist in the Infantry, she’s found even more:
✅ A sense of purpose
✅ Time in the great outdoors (even in the rain!)
✅ Lifelong memories, challenges, and growth
“Joining the infantry reserves has been the best decision I’ve ever made.”
Tyler’s story is a powerful reminder of what the Reserves can offer — adventure, camaraderie, and the chance to be part of something bigger than yourself. Read more about her experiences here.
INTERNATIONAL TRAINING IN ACTION!
Over a packed June weekend, 4626 Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron hosted their U.S. counterparts, the 315th AES from Charleston, South Carolina, at RAF Brize Norton.
Together, they trained on the ground and in the air—sharing best practice in aeromedical evacuation, exploring Pre-Hospital Emergency Care, and even flying joint medical scenarios aboard a C-17 Globemaster. The visit also included a tour of London’s Battle of Britain landmarks and hands-on experience with cutting-edge medical kit like the EpiShuttle and Air Transportable Isolator.
This growing partnership shows how teamwork and interoperability strengthen global readiness…read more.
DO YOU WANT TO BE A RESERVIST?
ARMED FORCES BRIEFINGS
This month, we were proud to host five Armed Forces Briefings across the South East!
These events are designed to provide updates on key developments within Defence, offering the only tri-Service (Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force) briefings in the region. They also serve to strengthen and sustain vital relationships between Defence and the wider community.
This year’s briefings included updates on the recently announced Strategic Defence Review, sharing key messages and insights into the future direction of Defence policy and capability.
Each event was exceptionally well attended, with guests including Senior Military Officers from all three Services, Members of Parliament, and a wide range of influential stakeholders.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, to the Army Engagement Group for their invaluable support, and to the Reserve and Cadet units who contributed engaging stands for our guests. Your participation made each event a success.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Posts that include a simple call to action like “What do you think?”, “Share your experience in the comments”, or “Which would you choose?” encourage followers to interact. This not only boosts engagement but also helps your content get seen by more people through the platform’s algorithm.
Example:
💬 “We just re-signed our Armed Forces Covenant in support of Reserves Day. Why is supporting the Armed Forces important to you?”
Calling all Reserves and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers – we want to hear your stories!
CADET NEWS
Promoting the Cadet Experience
SUSSEX ACF VOLUNTEERS RECOGNISED IN KING’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS
Two volunteers from Sussex Army Cadet Force have been personally honoured by King Charles and the British Army for their efforts in delivering youth services to the young people of Sussex in the Military Division of the Kings Birthday Honours List 2025, published on 14 June 2025.
Major William “Bill” Welsh from Shoreham by Sea has been a volunteer with Sussex Army Cadet Force for over 40 years and Lieutenant Peter Cooke from Worthing was also honoured to receive a 3 Star General Officer Commanding Commendation from the British Army…read more.
GOSPORT SEA CADETS SEEK VOLUNTEERS
Are you thinking of taking on a new challenge? Would you like to develop your skill set while helping young people in your community to grow and thrive too?
Gosport Sea Cadets are currently looking for Volunteer Sea Cadet Instructors with a range of specific skills and experiences: –
- Boating skills and qualifications (kayaking, sailing and sliding seat rowing)
- Catering
- Seamanship
- Marine Engineering
- Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme
If you would like to find out more about the volunteering roles available, please contact Gosport Unit directly by emailing gosportscc@gmail.com
CADET FORCE ADULT VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: LIEUTENANT COLONEL SARAH OXFORD
Starting her journey as a cadet in 1992, Sarah is now Deputy Commandant—proof of where passion and dedication can lead. Alongside a busy civilian career, she’s spent decades volunteering to help young people grow into confident, capable leaders.
“You don’t need a military background—just a desire to give back. Cadets has helped me grow, personally and professionally.”
Sarah’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact Cadet Force Adult Volunteers make—not just for cadets, but for our wider Armed Forces community…read more.
👕 DELTA COMPANY ARE READY FOR THE SUMMER HEAT! 👕
As the summer temperatures continue to rise, the Cadets of Delta Company, Sussex Army Cadet Force, are incredible grateful for the generosity of Universal Safety Practitioners, and South East RFCA who have kindly funded the issue of a bespoke Company t-shirt for Cadets to use on Army Cadet activities.
Thanks to the generous support from our sponsors, the Cadets can now proudly display their membership of Delta Company in hot weather. The winning slogan on the back of the t-shirts – “Dare to be Different!” was provided by the Cadets of No 15 (Brighton) Detachment, a subtle play on the meaning of the word Delta.
Officer Commanding Delta Company, Major (ACF) Jim Boyden said: “We’re all really grateful to Kevin Kerin at Universal Safety Practitioners and Emma Rickwood at the South East Reserve Forces and Cadets Association for enabling this issue of these t-shirts for use in hot weather by the Cadets. The Cadets will be able to advertise the great work of the Army Cadet Force while remaining cool in the heat!”
Read more here.
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BEING A CADET FORCE ADULT VOLUNTEER?
EMPLOYER ENGAGEMENT NEWS
Encouraging Employers to Support Defence
SILVER EMPLOYER RECOGNITION SCHEME AWARD WINNERS 2025
We are delighted to announce that 33 organisations from across the South East have been awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for 2025.
The ERS encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same. The scheme encompasses Bronze, Silver and Gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the Armed Forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
Silver award holders must already be accredited as a holder of ERS Bronze Award and held it with sufficient time to develop suitable plans and policies and evidence to support the ERS Silver application...read more.
ROYAL BERKSHIRE NHS FOUNDATION TRUST RE-SIGN ARMED FORCES COVENANT
On Reserves’ Day, Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust reaffirmed their support to the Armed Forces community by re-signing their Armed Forces Covenant. The signing took place at the Officers’ Mess at HQ 7 Rifles, Brock Barracks, and was signed by Steve McManus, Chief Executive of the NHS Trust, and Lt Col Guy Lock MBE, CO of 7 Rifles.
Steve McManus said after signing, “It’s really important for us to recognise the amazing service and work the military do for our nation and for our community.”
BLUE LIGHT HUB ARMED FORCES WALK-IN CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY!
Held at the Blue Light Hub, these monthly walk-in sessions in Milton Keynes offer a welcoming space for veterans, reservists, those serving and their families to access support and connect with others in the Armed Forces community.
Taking place on the third Wednesday of every month from 10:00 to 12:00, these sessions provide information on various services tailored for the Armed Forces community, including healthcare, mental health support, and housing assistance.
To mark this milestone, 33 organisations supporting the Armed Forces community, veterans, reservists, and their families gathered to celebrate over cake and coffee, and pizza donated by Dominos....read more.
HAS YOUR ORGANISATION SIGNED THE ARMED FORCES COVENANT?
ESTATES
Providing the best place to work and train
ALTERNATIVE VENUES
Alternative Venues South East has a range of interesting buildings in an area stretching from Oxfordshire to Kent. They include 19th Century Houses and modern state-of-the-art training facilities, all of them large well-equipped Army Reserve Centres and Cadet detachments – ideal for business, sporting, training and social activities. Most of the venues are available seven days a week and all of the Army Reserve Centres have professional catering facilities and secure parking.
VENUE OF THE MONTH:
BRIGHTON ARMY RESERVE CENTRE
This site offers endless possibilities for training, meetings or even large functions. Located nearby Brighton train station and on the doorstep of local shops, this ARC is in a prime location for your business and clients.
Suitable hiring at the venue:
• Filming
• Training
• Corporate
• Meetings
• Examination Hall
• Secure Parking
Interested in hiring this venue? Get in touch today!
MANAGING THE VOLUNTEER ESTATE, RESERVE AND CADET BUILDINGS
JOB VACANCIES
Our staff are employed as Crown Servants, with flexible working arrangements offered. We also offer generous benefits and a supportive atmosphere.
Follow us on Indeed to be alerted of new vacancies.
If you’re thinking of joining our team, find out more About Us and what we’ve been working on in our Latest News
LATEST PUBLICATIONS
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