Over 600 Junior British Soldiers proudly marched onto the parade square at AFC Harrogate, as their new Honorary Colonel, Bear Grylls, looked on with pride.
The event kicked off with a thrilling display by The Red Devils parachute team, and the RAF added to the spectacle with a dramatic flyover.
Bear Grylls, who took on the role of Senior Inspecting Officer for the first time, addressed the young soldiers with a heartfelt speech. Drawing on his own experience as a former 21 SAS soldier, he said:
“I may be a little older than you, a little more grizzled, but I know what’s it’s like to pass out as a young soldier. That day never leaves you.”
He also offered three key pieces of advice: “Keep these three qualities sharp: courage, discipline, and resilience.”
Around 5,000 proud family members were in attendance, watching as these 16 and 17-year-olds took their first steps towards their Army careers. The parade marked the end of months of gruelling training, including military exercises, fitness programs, and education, culminating in a challenging two-week battle camp and tactical exercise.
One of the standout graduates was 17-year-old Junior Regimental Sergeant Major (JRSM) Dalton Barrow from Stanleytown, Wales. After completing his GCSEs, Dalton enlisted with the ambition to travel, learn new skills, and meet new people. He is set to join the Parachute Regiment, following in the footsteps of his Great Uncle and Great Grandfather, both of whom served in the Paras. Reflecting on his training, Dalton said, “I’ve learned many skills, including how to be a better leader with greater self-discipline. I’ve also picked up some basic Russian.”
Dalton had the honour of leading the parade onto the square and receiving his award from Bear Grylls himself. “It was a massive honour to meet Bear and receive my award, he’s a very nice guy,” Dalton remarked.
Another graduate, Jardell ‘Jardy’ Pereira from Oldham, was awarded the ‘Most Improved’ accolade by Bear Grylls. Jardy, who previously worked as a labourer and carer, joined the Army seeking a new challenge and the opportunity to gain qualifications. He reflected on his experience, saying, “My favourite memory is going on a trip to Normandy and learning about the history that came before me.” Jardy also has ambitions to join the Parachute Regiment after completing his trade training.
AFC Harrogate trains two cohorts of Junior Soldiers each year, offering a 49-week course or a shorter 23-week course, providing a solid foundation for those embarking on a military career.
For more information, resources and how to join junior training at AFC Harrogate click here.
For more British Army news go to:www.army.mod.uk/news-and-events
The same Bear Grylls who made TV shows about him sleeping in inhospitable, dangerous places… while he was actually spending his nights at the nearby Hilton?
The world has gone mad when it thinks people who play dress-up for a living are the people they portray. Arnie is not a terminator, y’know.