July 14, 2010

Dear Sir,

Over the last few weeks I have become astounded at the verbal evasions and contortions used by Mr. Marshall and his supporters who wish to avoid service in the Bermuda Regiment. The lowest point yet was been reached in The Royal Gazette article concerning BAD's latest recruit, Marilyn Steede, who opines that the Regiment made her feel like a cockroach.

As a long-standing volunteer member of the Regiment who came into regular contact with Ms. Steede in her capacity as Chief Clerk, I can honestly state that I never witnessed Ms Steede being treated with less professional respect than she would be granted in civilian employment. Perhaps Ms Steede has been disappointed elsewhere in her career expectations.

My own experience with the Bermuda Regiment is thoroughly positive; two Company Commanders who have been outstanding employers, overseas travel, learning new and marketable skills, and gaining personal strength by acquiring compassion, patience, and discipline – and being paid for it all.

Why does the Bermuda Regiment that BAD and Ms Steede describe bear no relationship to the Regiment I serve in? How can any sane person be so disrespectful that they equate peacetime, part-time service in a Reserve unit with the brutal conditions of a lifetime of slavery? If your grandma or your auntie sings in a church choir, she will probably put in more hours than you will at the Regiment. Foul language? No more than you will hear at the average sporting event. Conscription equals colonial servitude? Stable, efficient peacetime Switzerland has 100 percent conscription today for all males between the ages of 18 and 30, with females serving as volunteers. After two referendums, the Swiss have chosen to retain conscription, with many of their National Guard choosing to serve till age 50.

We live in unpredictable times; given a sudden conflict or emergency, it's in the country's best interests to have a well-trained and efficient unit such as the Bermuda Regiment available. Do you want your parents and little brothers and sisters left unprotected because of the actions of a group like BAD? What trust can be placed in people who go to any lengths to avoid their basic duty to their country and each other?

OPTIO

Warwick