Corporal Robin McIvor – RAF Police

“It’s all about teamwork. That’s the best thing about the Reserves: you get to be part of a really, really good team that’s doing a very important job – and have amazing experiences along the way.”

My role

I’m a police patrol officer based in Somerset. A few years ago, I saw an ad for the RAF Reserves. I felt I wanted to do that bit extra, so I applied and I’ve been with the Reserves for three years now.

In my role with the RAF Police, I’m based in RAF Henlow in Bedfordshire. My squadron is part of Tactical Provost Wing and we’re fully integrated with the regular RAF Police.

I take many elements from my civilian policing to the RAF Reserves. They work under similar legislation and obviously the experience I’ve had as a police officer in terms of dealing with people and stressful situations has been very useful. However, you don’t have to be professionally qualified to join the RAF Reserves. I had no military background or training, but the good thing is they give you the training you need to prepare you for what’s ahead.

My experiences

I’ve been to Afghanistan twice, the first time at Kandahar Air Base where I was involved in air transport security. More recently, I was mentoring and supporting the Afghan National Police in Gereshk in Helmand. It was tough but incredibly rewarding.

My life

I’m in my forties now and being able to go out there and hold my own among young fit blokes is incredibly good for my self-esteem. It’s also helped me in my civilian police job because it has made me feel I’m capable of so much more.