Mary Reid

The Territorial Army has been in the news in the last couple of years.  A number of part-time volunteers suddenly found themselves posted to Iraq where they carried out the same duties as their full-time counterparts. Apparently they are paid the same salary as they would be receiving at home, and their employers are covered for any additional costs in recruiting temporary replacements.  Their tour of duty is a maximum of 6 months.

The Kingston TA Centre in Portsmoth Road houses two units - C squadron, 256 Field Hospital (Royal Army Medical Corps), and a squadron of the 31st (City of London) Signal Regiment.  It was the latter who invited us to a dinner at their HQ in Southfields last night, along with the Mayors from the other boroughs in the south of England where they are situated. Since I have little understanding of military life it was an enjoyable learning exercise and a very friendly occasion.

The Deputy Mayor is visiting the Kingston base on Tuesday to see the newly refurbished accommodation for the Signals.