Army Reservists Compete For First Falklands Deployment Of Its Kind

A group of British Army Reservist Signallers are heading to the Falkland Islands in 2018 for the first time to take on a six month deployment.

Beforehand, however 13 British Army Reservists from 2 Signal Group must go through the selection process, starting at Blandford Camp, Dorset.

The hopefuls are asked to complete a fitness test, command tasks, interviews and competency screenings.

It is a rare opportunity to try out for the deployment next summer, and the first time that a troop made up of mostly reserves will deploy to the Falklands on this kind of exercise.

Deputy Commander of 2 Signal Group, Lieutenant Colonel Stuart Rowson, says:

"It demonstrates that ability of the reserve to work effectively with the regular forces."

In total, 35 individuals will be deployed, all from 11 Signal and West Midland Brigade during a 12-month mobilisation.

"We're just looking for people who are keen and enthusiastic to go, that are committed to their trade and have a commitment to their reserve careers," says Captain Stu Keenan, Adjutant, 39 Signal Regiment.

"People that are looking to develop and really offer something back."

There are a series of selection weekends taking place to pick the right reservists to make the trip to the South Atlantic.

Forces News will be following the Falklands deployment throughout the next 12 months.

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