FROM an office desk in Hampshire to a roadside attack in Helmand.

That is the reality of life for hundreds of Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment (PWRR) Territorial Army soldiers who take their place on the frontline.

The difference between a nine-to-five job and a six-month tour of Iraq or Afghanistan is even greater than the thousands of miles that separate the two.

What starts as something to do at the weekends or a way to earn a few extra pounds, quickly becomes a life-changing experience according to one ex-regular Tiger.

Warrant Officer Class 2 Frank Eastman, who has a fierce 14 years of PWRR experience, is in charge of recruitment and turning people into frontline soldiers.

The 48-year-old from Hedge End said reserve troops from the county’s local regiment – nicknamed the Tigers – play a vital role in supporting the regular forces.

“For most people it starts out as something to do at the weekends that’s a bit different. It’s got nothing to do with wanting to serve Queen and country,” he said.

“They are told in stark terms that they could be mobilised and if that’s not what they want then maybe they shouldn’t be there.”

The battalion is operationally focussed and has officers and soldiers deployed in both Afghanistan and Iraq.

They are taking time out from their civilian jobs – which are protected by legislation – to experience life at the sharp end of the Army’s work.

Officer Eastman, who participated in the launch of Black History Month with London Mayor Boris Johnson last year, said reservists come from all walks of life.

“We have a more diverse range of people than you would find in the regular Army,” he said.

“Essentially the TA soldier is probably a little bit more motivated than your regular because he has put his hand up to go.

“I’ve found that if you, as a TA soldier, are prepared to make the effort, then they will too.

“It’s a great opportunity to see the world and learn new skills. The experiences are invaluable.”



How to support the Tigers…

You can show your support for the regiment, and help raise money for those injured in conflict, by wearing a PWRR wristband. The wristbands cost £1, with proceeds split between the PWRR Welfare Fund and Help for Heroes. You can buy a wristband at Army recruiting offices across the region or at army.mod.uk/pwrr.