Does biggest passing-out parade in a generation mark start of a new era in British Army?

Last week, the largest passing-out parade in a generation took place at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, marking a historic occasion for 720 recruits who have completed basic training and are now officially recognised as trained soldiers.

For these young men and women, all under the age of 18, their achievements are nothing short of extraordinary.

Some will dedicate more than 20 years to military service – a truly cross-generational journey that will span technological advances and evolve in ways that today's soldiers may struggle to predict. 

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But it's the culture surrounding the Army of tomorrow that has been thrust into the spotlight, thanks in part to remarks made by the head of the British Army, General Sir Roly Walker.

During his speech at the passing-out parade in Harrogate, Sir Roly delivered an impactful message that has sparked conversation about the direction of the Army's future.

Addressing the recruits and the thousands of onlookers, the Chief of the General Staff urged those joining the professional branch of his organisation to actively combat abuses in all forms.

"You must call out racism, sexism, homophobia, and misogyny, and all forms of abuse wherever you find them.

"Because those things corrode trust, and that is the most precious of soldierly commodities."

These words come at a time when the British Army is under increasing scrutiny over how it engages with younger generations.

Recently, some recruitment campaigns – crafted by top marketing minds – have faced criticism from older generations and veterans.

Ads focusing on non-combat activities like disaster relief, rather than traditional combat roles, have drawn backlash, but they are designed to appeal to a generation that views the world differently from its predecessors.

Just months ago, Sir Roly's colleague at the top of the Armed Forces, Admiral Sir Ben Key, resigned following reports of an inappropriate relationship with a junior member of the Royal Navy. The MOD later said the then-First Sea Lord's actions had fallen short of professional standards.

It is perhaps in this context that the weight of the remarks by the CGS can be viewed – the man at the top setting out his stall in terms of how he wants the Army's culture to be received, primarily by those joining the organisation today, and those who are perhaps not yet old enough to apply... but will be, one day.