This Reserves Day, Landmarc is highlighting and recognising the valuable contribution of one of its employees who has volunteered his time to the Armed Forces outside of his day job.
Reservists give up their spare time to serve in the Reserve Forces, balancing their civilian life with a military career. The Reserve Forces make up approximately one sixth of the Armed Forces personnel and are integral to protecting the nation’s security at home and overseas.
Murray Graham was in the Reserve Forces, and we asked him to tell us a bit more about how and why he got involved.
Murray’s story
Murray Graham is National Training Area Manager at Landmarc, and served with 154 (Scottish) Regiment Royal Logistic Corps before recently retiring. Murray explains: “After serving in the Regular Forces for over 24 years, I saw the Reserves as a way I could continue to serve in an environment in which I was very familiar and comfortable. It also assisted me in my transition to my new civilian life.
“Being in the Reserves allowed me to continue to serve my country in an active role within the modern military, and gave me the opportunity to pass on 38 years’ experience of military life and operational roles to the younger soldiers in preparation for their own future deployments.
“I was the Squadron Sergeant Major and Senior Warrant Officer (WO) in the Squadron, and my role was to motivate the soldiers and maintain discipline throughout. This included the organisation and delivery of training in order to keep the soldiers at a high state of readiness in preparation for operations and exercises.
“The Reserves enabled me to renew and enhance old skills including Field Firing. Understanding how the service personnel carry out their training also gives me a unique view as to how to manage and maintain the ranges and training areas in my civilian role.
“It was a challenge to continue to operate at the highest level in my roles for both Landmarc and the Reserves, however my line manager was fully supportive, and actively helped and encouraged me in delivering quality work for both organisations.
“I can recommend the Reserve Forces to any ex regular wishing to continue their service or other individual wanting to join a professional organisation which will train you and continue to enhance your skills throughout your career.
“If you are lucky enough to gain promotion, the Reserve Forces will teach you how to be an effective leader and manager, all of which can be transferred to the civilian working environment.”