The Territorial Army - Challenging Opportunities
				Since its formation as the Territorial Force in 1908, The Territorial Army or TA has been, and continues to be, an essential element of the British Armed Forces. Click on the picture to the left to see a commemorative booklet issued to Celebrate 100 Years of Service by The Territorial Army. Currently forming one quarter of the British Army, the TA plays the vital dual role of reinforcing the Regular Army and serving
	local communities in times of need. Men and women drawn from all walks of life and a wide range of professionals, skills and trades living life to the full, they're dedicated team players and they're determined to succeed.
		In times of war, conflict, national emergency or natural disaster, the UK has always depended upon the TA as an integral part of its armed forces.  Now its role is more important the ever.  And it is the chance for thousands of civilians to satisfy their need for a challenging new experience.
	“The Territorial Army has been a fundamental part of the British Army since its formation as the Territorial Force in 1908.  During the past six years in particular, members of the Territorial Army have made considerable personal sacrifices and have provided indispensable support to current operations.  This participation has been at a level seldom seen throughout its distinguished past.  It is,
	therefore, especially appropriate that we mark this significant milestone in the history of the Territorial Army by celebrating the first centenary in a fitting manner.” Chief of the General Staff - General Sir Richard Dannatt KCB CBE MC ADC Gen
					In joining the TA you will have access to an exciting range of opportunities: To develop your existing skills while learning new ones To push yourself to achieve things you never thought possible To play a fundamental role in fulfilling the Army's commitment to defensive, humanitarian and peacekeeping operations in the UK and worldwide
	You could join the infantry with the Royal Welsh Regiment or fire a missile with the Royal Artillery.  Alternatively, with the Royal Logistic Corps you could become qualified to drive a Heavy Goods Vehicle or train as a supply expert. You could play a vital role in an Army Medical Squadron.
			The Call to Action The 1998 Strategic Defence Review set out a fundamental change in the planned use of the Reserves in support of the United Kingdom's defence interests.  As a trained member of the TA you are liable to call-out under the Reserve Forces Act 1996.  This is designed to help volunteer forces operate readily alongside regular forces.
	Deployment is usually preceded by a period of thorough training, normally at the Reserves Training and Mobilisation Centre.  Training prepares volunteers for the specific military operation, whether a humanitarian or peacekeeping task or combat operations such as the Gulf War.  In the event of call-out, TA volunteers and their employers have the right to seek exemption or deferral under certain circumstances.
	Responding to Change The UK is not exposed to the threat of an invasion by a hostile force.  Nevertheless, the security of our nation, the protection of interests abroad and our commitment to NATO's Allied Command Europe Rapid Reaction Force depend on maintaining the quality and capability of the TA - whenever and wherever it is needed.  The restructured TA reflects these needs and is more fully integrated into our armed forces.  There is now more emphasis on logistics, medical support, communications and IT.
	"Integrity, commitment and leadership are the attributes necessary for success in the business and public life today.  From experience we now that these are the very qualities which service in the Volunteer Reserve Forces to encourage." Clydesdale Bank PLC "We are firmly convinced that service with the Reserves not only develops the character and leadership qualities of our employees, but sets an excellent example in discharging the duty we all owe to the community at large". Smiths Industries Medical Services "As an employer, British Airways has long signalled support for the Reserve Forces, and we are happy to have this opportunity to reaffirm our continuing support.  A crucial factor in the commercial success of British Airways is the quality of its training programme.  We readily recognise that the training benefits which members of HM Forces bring are in many respects unique". British Airways
	Effective Training To be effective in times of conflict and emergency, modern armed forces rely on a diversity of skills.  Maintaining a state of readiness for any situation demands commitment right across the organisation.  Since both affect the quality or morale, the TA sets the highest standards at every level of activity. Skills are taught and perfected through training programmes.  This is absolutely essential since volunteers have less time to prepare than regular soldiers do. TA training is structures to help you make every minute count.  But training is a two-way process and there are high expectations of all recruits.
			There are elements of TA training that can be physically challenging.  To get the most out of these activities you need to have a good standard of health.  However, there is no need to worry, we do not require our members to be exceptional athletes - we ask only that you have the willingness and ability to get and stay fit.  Naturally, you will receive full support in this endeavour. Our graduated fitness programme will help you reach the required standard.
	The TA places great emphasis on training and can give you the opportunity to build a portfolio of skills that is valued by the Army and employers.  These skills reflect both character development and practical abilities.
	Does this sound like hard work? It is - but it's also great fun, which helps build discipline for teamwork, can prove satisfying and rewarding when training with a squad.  Basic training is done alongside Regular Army recruits and covers weaponry, fieldcraft and other essential skills.
			Effective decision making and reliable communications are also prerequisites for rapid reaction to any situation.  Logistics, telecommunications, intelligence and, of course, medical services are vital for supporting the forward area of battle.
	The TA in Wales needs you!   -   What have you got to lose ? Click Here to Read more about the Territorials in Wales
	If you are considering a rewarding and worthwhile part time career why not call in at your local TA Centre, submit a request on our contact page or call us at the local rate on 08457 300 111. We will send you more information plus our TA Guide DVD-ROM and we'll pass your details on to your local unit. They will even pick you up from home if you have difficulty with transport. or   Join an online live chat with serving soldiers by clicking on the picture here:---
	You will be made welcome and told everything there is to know about the TA. You will be surprised at just how much we have to offer:- Check Out our Latest Pay and Conditions The list is endless as will be your questions, so here are:- A Few Answers (FAQ) to Whet Your Appetite.
The Territorial Army - Challenging Opportunities