Pad's Army

Pad's Army: A Journey of Grit and Gormlessness

Step into the colourful narrative of "Pad's Army," where humour meets heart in an earnest memoir that chronicles my two-and-a-half-decade odyssey through the British Army. From 1975 to 1999, readers are taken on a ride filled with camaraderie, resilience, and a keen sense of the absurd.

With a gormless grin and an unwavering belief in Rodger the Dodger - I navigated the highs and lows of military life. From gruelling training sessions to exotic international deployments – Germany, Wales, Scotland and Holcombe Moor - the Northwest of England's answer to the Falkland Isles. Share a chuckle amid the chaos and the bonds forged in adversity.
Yet, beneath the humour lies an honest exploration of survival against the odds - my parents thought I'd only last a month, but I showed them!  I faced lots of challenges as a young male, – being young and male were two of them - but I prevailed, mainly due to my knowledge of Rodger's volumes of dodges and by setting the bar of success as low as it would go.

But this is not just a memoir of soldiering; it's a tribute to the power of determination, friendship, and the human spirit. Whether you're a lover of military history, a seeker of inspiration, or simply in need of a good chuckle, "Pad's Army" hopes to entertain and uplift, offering a unique glimpse into a world where gormlessness becomes a source of strength, and survival is a journey shared among those willing to stand side by side. Join me as I navigate the intricate tapestry of life, proving that imperfection is not just acceptable—it's a part of the adventure.