Couple of queries about the reserves

Lockstep

Hows it going folks,

I saw a few threads about the FCA but I don't want to be digging up old posts so I'm writing a new one, apologies if I should have gone for adding to the older post.


Basically, I applied to the medical reserves in October. I got told my applicatipn was being sent off to guards in November after I visited the barracks but since then I've heard nothing. I'm intending to enquire again in the new year but theres a few questions I have.


I've lived in a fair few countries, never settling in a place longer than a few years and always finding it hard fitting in. I'm a natural floater in that I can get on ok with most groups of people but never reallt connecting or getting friendly with them. I'm worried about this in the army as you'd be expected to work in a team and get on with people. Also the fact that the people there probably already know each other. I lived in Belgium for a few years where people tend to be a lot colder than Irish people. Very polite but a lot less warm which is where I picked up most of my social skills (or lack thereof). I was working in Ireland and had a tendency to appear unfriendly. I'm worried of the impression this would give in the army, are they welcoming to new people?


Secondly, how does the training work? I was told that I;d go off on a course but didnt really get any info on it. What exactlydo you do in the training>


Thirdly, I was told I'd be getting paid. I'm not too worried about the pay as moneys hardly the reason to join but I'd be interested to know how much you get. I heard something about recieving a stipend as well as cash for the 2 week training course.


Thanks for all the help

eroo

First off,the RDF is extremly welcoming as they are always looking for new recruits..

as regards pay;
http://www.rdfra.ie/money_matters.shtml

minidazzler

Your clearence could take a bit considering you lived in different countries. So really all you can do is wait for that.

The Gardai are not the best at doing that promptly they can take a few months but it shoukd be done by mid-janruary if they sent it off in time.

If They dont contact you by then then you should contact them. It will let them know you are interested.

Tribunius

Right my background is infantry but I'm pretty sure you will be doing the same 2 star course as our lot at least your supposed to be. This consists of foot drill (read marching), arms drill, weapons handling (you will learn all about the steyr and qualify on it). Maybe a bit of time on the ground (tactics etc). Basically all this is to get you thinking/acting like a soldier. You won't really have anything to do with weapons after this. Then the following courses you will do will deal with medic stuff eg first aid, aed, oxygen admin etc.

I wouldn't worry about fitting in the training has a way of bringing people together:)