"After studying at the University of Nottingham I graduated with a degree in Environmental Science. University proved to be an invaluable experience where a balanced mix of study, sport and socialising provided an enjoyable lifestyle and a thirst for employment outside the usual 9-5 routine. Sadly university ended and after a short period labouring while I attended the Army Officer Selection Board (AOSB), I found myself facing old college steps at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst with an ironing board in hand in May of that Year!

I arrived at the Academy already interested in the Royal Artillery and my eyes were opened to 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery through my platoon Staff Sergeant, who proudly wore his green beret as a Commando Gunner. I commissioned from Sandhurst into the Royal Artillery where I went on to complete my Young Officers' course at Larkhill then posted finally to 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery.

On arriving at the gates of the Royal Citadel I expected to be on the next conditioning course for the All arms Commando course, the next big hurdle in my career which would earn me the Green Beret and the right to serve within the Commando brigade. This was not the case, and instead I found myself deploying on OP HERRICK 9 after only 2 weeks at the Regiment.

After a brief 2 months on operations and having had the invaluable opportunity to serve along and get to know soldiers in the battery I returned to the UK ready to start the Commando course. Having received all the advice in the world during the last 2 months, all that remained was to pass the course, easier said than done. Thankfully I did pass and in time rejoin the battery on their return from Afghanistan but this time wearing a green beret.

As a troop commander, working with commando trained soldiers offers a demanding but thoroughly satisfying work existence. I enjoy working with a fit, determined and proactive breed of solider who continue to impress on arduous training events, sporting achievements and day to day in barracks routine.

Life in a 29 Commando Regiment never fails to offer new challenges and a wealth of opportunity. The pace of life is very busy but extremely rewarding. In the last year I have trained as a Forward Air Controller (FAC) and have since deployed on exercise to the Mediterranean, Eastern Europe, Scotland and of course closer to home - Dartmoor. I have been lucky enough to pass my Day Skipper qualification and spend time offshore sailing with members of the battery.

The Regiment deploys to Afghanistan in April 2011 in support of 3 Commando Brigade. This I am looking forward to as it will be in a different role but more importantly leading soldiers from the front".