Boot and Saddle by JG GilberdKings Troop, RHA - Duties and Conditions of Service
DutiesSoldiers joining the Troop can either work with horses or be employed as saddlers, farriers, clerks, storemen and batmen, but every soldier in the Troop must learn to ride - military style. Those who work with horses are given riding and driving instructions by the Troop Equitation Instructor. Those with less ridiing ability may take longer to qualify and become stablemen (responsible for preparation and feeding), or limber gunners. They all get a chance to ride out on exercise and are allotted horses they are responsible for. Conditions of ServiceAny man from within the Army or from 'Civvy Street' who thinks he would like to serve as a Horse Gunner is invited to spend a few days at the 'Wood' before he enlists or transfers. This he does at no expense to himself. During his stay he is treated as, and lives the life of, a horse soldier, so that he can see if he likes the life. If at the end of his visit he decides it's not for him or he does not measure up to the standard demanded then that is the end of the matter. On the other hand if he decides he would like to join and he is considered suitable he can enlist for a normal engagement of three, six or nine years - provided he fits in he can spend the whole of his service with the Troop - most do. Senior NCOs with special skills can serve 20 years at the 'Wood'. Jim Gilberd, 1989 |
