EXCLUSIVE: The move will allow former service personnel up to the age of 65 to be recalled back into service
The move will allow former service personnel up to the age of 65 to be recalled back into service (Image: Getty)
Government plans to increase the pool of people eligible for service in the event of war have been criticised by a former special forces soldier. Last month the Government announced plans to increase the upper age limit of the strategic reserve to 65, meaning the potential for over 60s to be enlisted in the military is now genuine.
The Strategic Reserve consists of a pool of former service personnel with a legal liability to train, be called up and mobilise in times of crisis. Announcing the plans, the Ministry Of Defence claimed the move allowed them to boost the “pool of skilled former military personnel called upon in crises as UK strengthen preparedness.” However Michael Hawkes, 65, who served in the SAS for 13 years believes that older people are not up to it physically
‘War fighting is a young man’s game’ (Image: -)
He told the Daily Express: “I just don’t think that there is any way people of that age would be up to it physically.
“Perhaps there are roles in the rear echelons but forget the idea that they might be capable of frontline service.
“The military is a young man’s game, especially warfare. The Government should forget targeting 65-year-olds and get on with a massive recruitment drive to attract young people.
“We haven’t got a fighting force anymore. If we had a situation like the Falklands again, I’m not sure what we would be able to do.”
The plans have been met with a mixed reception from veterans, with those liable for recall divided on their ability to contribute and the message the need for them sends about the state of the Armed Forces.
Garreth Williams, 50, served for 17 years and now runs Veterans Can, an organisation designed to promote the benefits of service leavers to society.
Williams believes that many veterans would still possess the willingness to put their lives on the line to defend their country, even if that country doesn’t always protect them on their return.
“The whole measure is a band-aid,” he says. “Sure veterans would stand up and go again, but calling veterans forward to make up for long periods of societal kowtowing feels like an insult and smacks of desperation on behalf of the MOD, while they concurrently hang other veterans out to dry.”
Asked if he would be willing to serve again, he smiles: “If the stuff hits the fan, I’ll gladly command the Veterans Can Auxiliary Rifles – if my wife lets me!”
