Soldier OR Officer? What is the best option for someone who wants to be hands on yet have some command/authority?

Jen C.

Reservist Brigade SO2 SPS

Hi, it really does depend on the person (and qualifications). You can be a hands on officer but depending on capbadge you won't have the same, indepth knowledge as one of your soldiers for example a vehicle mechanic but as a pilot or nurse you will have exactly the same knowledge.
As a soldier you begin to have command at Corporal level but in some capbadges, ie a Royal Military Police Soldier you'd have command very early on due to situations you may find yourself in. It's a hard question as there's just so many variables. Sometimes, individuals join as a soldier and within a few years (quals and age dependent) they might decide to go for a commission. This could be seen as the best of both worlds.

Thursday, June 10, 2021

This discussion is closed, so no new comments can be added.

Did you find this discussion helpful?

Top categories

Application Advice Application issues Application process Application Status Application support

Related discussions

how do you become an 'Army Commando' and what are the benefits of being one?I'm unsure whether to apply for a soldier or an officer role?Can an enlisted infantry become an officer? if so how can I achieve this?Infantry officer what ways do you jojn?Is it possible for a regular soldier to become an officer in the army? And if they can how do they do that?What is better a medical support officer or a combat medic?Whats the best piece of advice you could give to someone pursuing a career within the Royal Military Police?Which is better experience for becoming an officer, the UOTC or enlisting as a reserve soldier?As a Army Medic would you be able to pick what regiment alongside?What section of the army is the best for someone who is big on fitness but also likes order?Int Corps as a soldier or an officer???Commonwealth soldier, would like to become an officer. is there any residency requirement and how do I go about it?What would be the best army position because i was going for an infantry soldier but now im not sure, thoughts?how do you know which role to go for nursing soldier or nursing officer?Can non officer ranks such as Sergeants become platoon or company commanders? What leadership roles can they do?