Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
I am a Warrant Officer Class Two in the Small Arms School Corps (SASC) and as such considered to be a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in all Infantry Weapon Systems (IWS). The Corps is responsible for training the trainers on Infantry Battle School courses for NCOs and officers and each course covers the spectrum of IWS. In addition SASC instructors are experts on all aspects of support weapons (mortars, anti-tank weapons and the sniper rifle) and weapons mounted on vehicles up to 30 mm in calibre. Furthermore, the SASC plays a major role in the advising and planning major Live Firing Tactical Training (LFTT) exercises around the world and are deployed to various Theatres of Operations due to their knowledge and experience. The SASC does not recruit directly from civilian life, but only accepts applications from soldiers already serving in the British Army. All its members hold a minimum rank of Sergeant. Volunteers transfer to the SASC from All Arms and Services, although primarily from the Infantry. The principal source of volunteers are successful students attending School of Infantry Phase 3 courses that have shown a particular aptitude in skill at arms instruction and those that have demonstrated a high level of marksmanship. Students may also be selected from support weapons and Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) courses. The Corps strength is 164; ranging from Sergeant to Lt Col. I joined the Corps in 2003 and have satisfied my career aspirations by being promoted to Warrant Officer Class Two. I now look for a fresh challenge in a new environment.