British Expats - Anzac Day

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- - Anzac Day (https://britishexpats.com/forum/barbie-92/anzac-day-832194/)

To me, soldiers that don't drill well and chew gum on the parade ground is a sign of weak leadership.

Quote:

Originally Posted by paulry (Post 11246270)

To me, soldiers that don't drill well and chew gum on the parade ground is a sign of weak leadership.

To me it's a swift punch to the solar plexus:frown:

Quote:

Originally Posted by paulry (Post 11246270)

You know, commenting on the armed forces generally, or ANZAC day specifically, isn't reserved for people who've personally served in the army/navy/airforce.
ANZAC Day means a great deal to me, both as an Australian and in terms of my own family. You have the same right as everyone else to criticize, and you did. I have the same right as everyone else to respond, and I did. Anything more is just a stupid forum argument, and you can have that all to yourselves.

To be honest, you have a point. Anzac Days means something different to everyone. I see masses of people wearing the medals that belonged to Family members and I see masses of people who take part in the remembrance regardless of affiliation and our local CFA takes part - as another form of public service organisation.

Zulu still has a point : the only people criticising the way people march should be left to the best critics - which are people who have served.

Quote:

Originally Posted by paulry (Post 11246270)

To me, soldiers that don't drill well and chew gum on the parade ground is a sign of weak leadership.

Is it really a sign of the times? I optimistically say there is no way British troops would have done that in the past but I know for a fact that times have changed. They do - and unfortunately armed forces are not the exception to the rule of change.

As for drill for drill sakes...that is something else- some units spend a month (etc) on extra demanding selection or physical training - other units spend the same time on extra drill. The Guards come to mind...and some people say they are just woodentops as a result.

To me soldiers who can't complete fitness tests or shoot straight is a reflection of the unit and what their role is. But drill is one of the basics.

Quote:

Originally Posted by BadgeIsBack (Post 11246344)

Yes, I reckon it is a sign of the times. More time spent surfing the internet and less on the parade ground.

Is the military the poorer for it? Probably yes, because drilling bolsters unit cohesion, respect for leadership and if done well it boosts morale and with a bit of creativity it can be a lot of fun. And if it's fast drilling like we did in SA as opposed to the passive ceremonial stuff its great exercise too :thumbup: