It’s changed my life – a fantastic career
LCpl Joe Faulder
Physical Training Instructor and Section Second in Command
1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment
I was born and raised in Carlisle and went to St Aden’s school. I’ve always been into fitness, and played football and hockey at school. And I joined the Army at sixteen – as soon as I finished school – because I’d wanted to since I was a young lad.
From Carlisle to Cyprus – and beyond
Carlisle Army Careers Office sorted out my application and I completed my Phase One training at The Army Training Regiment, Bassingbourn near Cambridge. I then moved to Infantry Training Centre at Catterick in Yorkshire for Infantry training. In 2002 I was posted to my Battalion in Cyprus – as a fully trained Kingsman in a Rifle Company. I was there two years – it was a great experience.
The Battalion then moved back to the UK and went on to training exercises in Belize, Central America. The jungle warfare training we were given was definitely one of the highlights of my career. Not forgetting the leave we enjoyed in Mexico!
Making a difference on two operational tours
After the Battalion completed a 3-month tour of Northern Ireland we started training for our 6-month Tour in Iraq in 2005. The Battalion moved to Osnabruck in Germany, and more exercise in Poland and Canada prepared us for our second tour of Iraq in 2007. This was a very interesting time because I was able to see how Iraq had improved in the space of two different tours. And I felt we’d helped the Iraqi security forces take control of their own country.
Still a sportsman. Still winning.
While in Germany I represented the British Army in Rugby League against Salford Reds. Since my second tour in Iraq I’ve had the opportunity to take part in a Colours Parade where HM The Queen presented the three new Duke of Lancaster’s Battalions with their new Colours.
More recently I have won the Inter Company welterweight boxing competition within the Battalion – which really made me push myself beyond my limits and test everything I had trained for. I’m now looking forward to advancing my career and completing my section commander’s battle course at Brecon early next year.
It’s all about the effort you’re prepared to put in
I can honestly say that joining the Army – and in particular The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment – has really changed my life. It’s a fantastic career. In a just a short space of time I’ve achieved a lot – as well as having amazing experiences along the way. Whatever you want to do, if you’re prepared to put in the effort, the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment will open up a whole new world of opportunities for you.