Quote:
Originally Posted by Hawthorn
An interesting photograph indeed, I would say that these Men are not dressed for PT but rather they are wearing some form of informally issued jumper immediately after the Squad was formed and prior to the full issue of Uniform. This theory is evidenced by the ties being worn, they appear to be a strange mixture of colours and styles for any officially issued item and it also looks as though a mixture of civilian trousers are being worn.
The two Men in the lighter jumpers with their arms crossed are probably the PTI's for this Squad.
The Private Soldier standing to the left in uniform is also probably the Squad's Trained Soldier, there to assist Corporal Essam in the day to day running of the Squads training. It may be a trick of the light but he appears to be wearing the multiple good conduct chevrons of an 'Old Sweat' on his left sleeve.
Lastly, and not wishing to be pedantic but the Corporal is not carrying a pace stick but some form of Regimental Cane.
Is this the photograph in full or has it been cropped to only show half of the Squad?
Best regards Simon.
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The old soldier has five Good Conduct badges, meaning at least 21* years service, so he was in line for full pension. Let us hope he enjoyed it.
* the 5th badge was to be awarded after 23 years but this could be brought forward by 2 years for continuous good conduct.