Letter: Our outdated Army

Peter Wood
Thursday 14 January 1999 19:02 EST
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Sir: I fully support Major Joyce's views regarding the Army's antiquated and "classist" commissioning policy, which has led to him being told to resign or be sacked ("Defiant Major is told to quit", 14 January).

Why else during a recent Army Commissioning Board was I required to disclose my "military connections" and whether I went to a private school and also list the occupations of my family members?

I am sure that many people considering an Army career are deterred by an institution that appears content to portray itself as discriminatory and outdated. Sacking Major Joyce for speaking out against the Army will only serve to reinforce such views among the public.

Is it any wonder that the Army is experiencing a recruitment crisis?

PETER WOOD

Helsby, Cheshire

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