End of an era. After 17.5 years today is my last day in the RAF. I already feel like half my identity is missing This thread is a condensed version of a presentation I gave to AC Helen Ball last year & sums up my experience of being #twicethecitizen

When people ask me why I serve in both the Police & the RAF, the answer I give is that I get the best of both worlds. I am extremely proud that I get to work in two world class organisations, alongside dedicated & professional colleagues all making a difference.

I am able to learn from the similar but different cultures & from the common desire to innovate & improve. But it’s not all been plain sailing (or more appropriately plane flying). I joined the RAF Reserves in 2003 and in 2007, while working for SOCA, I deployed to Afghanistan.

I worked alongside some of the most committed & courageous people I have ever met. I returned a different person, with an urge to do more & use my new found skills in leadership, communication & teamwork to better effect. 12 months later I applied to join the MPS.

Before the ink had dried on my probationary PDR, I mobilised again, this time to the Middle East & in 2016 to the Falkland Islands. Besides my op tours I travelled all over on exercises inc Arizona, Austria, Norway, France, Sicily & Italy, Greece, Ascension Island & Australia.

I have made lifelong friends all over the world. I have met the Queen a few times, led the RAF Reserves out at the Festival of Remembrance, carried the flag onto the pitch at Six Nations matches & represented the RAF CrossFit Team.

As I said at the start, it hasn’t been easy managing two careers simultaneously as well as a personal life. There has been criticism at times from colleagues & managers who questioned my commitment to the MPS, suggesting that I can’t give my best to either job.

However, I would say that the experiences, opportunities, skills & achievements I have had through being in the reserves have shaped me into the best version of me. I am without a doubt a more confident, capable and skilled leader & team member.

So I will finish where I started. Being in the reserves & MPS has provided the best and worst times of my life, however the skills & experiences have been invaluable & I believe that both worlds get the very best of me & I get the best of both worlds.

I couldn’t recommend being a Reservist more but the time is right to go. I’ve never not had two careers so will now focus on being the best Police Leader I possibly can be....and tending to my allotment. #perarduaadastra #proudtoserve #beawesome