British Military reservist:
Having spent 7 years in the regular Amy, living in the UK, German and going on operations in the middle east, my opinion of the reserves was shadowed by ego. How can some one be as good as me when they don’t do the same length of time in training or spend as much time in Green kit (uniform) as me?
I left the Army in 2007 with the attitude of “never again”. I had given all my ally(special/none issue) kit to the new guys coming in to the troop as I would never ever think of using it again. This turned out to be an expensive decision as within 10 months of getting out I was enquiring to join the reserves, I just missed it too much, after all it was all I’d known from 16 years of age.
So, I joined the SAS(R) after 12 months of a gruelling selection process I was finally ‘badged’ I had been given my beige beret with the famous winged dagger on it and my electric blue stable belt. One of the proudest moments in my life to date and it really did change my life direction.
Being a reservist gave me stability and security, if my civilian work slowed down I could rely on the army main training periods and weekends to help out finically. The biggest plus I found was personal development, the training/career courses that would of cost me a small fortune in Civi street I was being encourage and paid to go on, not to mention the odd weeks skiing and other adventure training. Again getting paid for my troubles.
To summarise, its been a great journey for me and I would highly recommend it to others, whether you have served previously or you’re a civilian. The reserves will give you access to people from all sector of business and all walks of life, you will meet great friends as I have that will support you through your toughest journey.
Des Fraser 
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