Guards Parachute Platoon

History
 
Formed in 2001, the Guards Parachute Platoon is the descendant of the Guards Parachute Company which was disbanded in 1975 when G Company of the Special Air Service was formed.  Soldiers are recruited from the Welsh Guards and all other Battalions of the Foot Guards.
 
Where is the Guards Parachute Platoon Based?
 
It is based in Colchester as part of B Company in 3 Parachute Regiment and is also regularly used independently as a support Para Platoon in exercises involving Guards Battalions.  The Parachute Company welcomes this addition to their strength.  They know that the platoon will be made up of particularly motivated soldiers who will have passed P Company and are looking to broaden their range.  The Commanding Officer of 3 Para also enjoys the fact that this platoon is an extra contingent on his strength.
 
What has the Guards Parachute Platoon been up to?
 
The Platoon has recently returned from a successful tour of Afghanistan in 2006.  Prior to this the served in Iraq in 2003, Northern Ireland and they have been involved in various Brigade exercises and Airborne demonstration days.
 
Selection Procedure
 
After joining the Welsh Guards and as a member of the Household Division you will have the unique opportunity to apply and serve with the Guards Parachute Platoon however, you must fill the criteria, therefore, there is a selection process which takes place at Pirbright, Surrey with the Household Division Parachute Regiment Centralised Courses.
 
After completion of this if you are successful you will be put on the All Arms Pre Selection Course (P Coy) where you will do 3.5 weeks of screening, build up training and the test week.  If successful, you will be loaded onto the jumps course at RAF Brize Norton for a 4 weeks jumps course where you will conduct the specialist training and do 9 jumps to qualify you for the prestigious Parachute Wings and Maroon Beret which you can wear whilst serving with the platoon.
 
What can Guards Parachute Platoon offer you?
 

·         Specialist Parachute Pay

·         Experience

·         Part of a close and unique unit

·         Be a part of the Spearhead of the British Army

·         Career enhancement