A train driver from Billericay, James Pannett, 26, has been promoted to the rank of Corporal at the Warley Army Reserve Centre.
“The Reserves offers me something totally different from my day job as a train driver. The variety of roles in the Reserves provide a lot of opportunities to enhance your skills,” said James when he received his rank slide from the Commanding Officer.
James is a Combat Medical Technician in the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC), attached to 124 Transport Squadron in Essex. What does a Combat Medical Technician do?
- Give first aid on the battlefield.
- Provide medical training to the Army.
- Supply medical support on all kinds of operations and exercises.
- Help with medical evacuations in hostile conditions.
- Provide health education to the Army.
Originally joining 151 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps (RLC) in 2011 and after a deployment to Afghanistan as a Petroleum Operator, James changed roles to an RLC driver and obtained a Class 2 Driver Trade. He served as a driver then transferred to the RAMC as a Combat Medical Technician.
Corporals are given more responsibilities and command a team of soldiers and equipment. In this rank, James can now access additional trade and instructor qualifications. He is always looking for opportunities in which to better himself and improve his skill sets:
“Being in the Reserves is definitely rewarding. The skills you learn are for life,” said James.