Armed Forces Week ‘26
At Clarion Insight, our team has worked with organisations in the defence sector for many years and we’re incredibly proud that several of our colleagues have served in the military. Their unique experiences, skills and understanding gives us valuable insight into the Armed Forces, which is hugely beneficial in the work we do.
We asked a few of them to share what they've learnt from serving in the Armed Forces:
Working along side serving personnel, both Regular and Reservist, other veterans and even Cadet volunteers is to know there is a set of shared values that we can rely on. There will be respect for each other, a focus on achieving the aim and the humility to listen and learn from each other. We can also count good humour to carry the team through.
- Andy S
As an RAF Reservist, being part of the Armed Forces community gives me a lasting sense of camaraderie, purpose, and understanding. We share a common language and outlook that made my transition into civilian life easier, knowing that network is still there. I admire the dedication of those who continue to serve while juggling other roles, and the depth of experience across the community reminds me how important it is to learn from and support one another.
- Chris A
For me, the Armed Forces community represents a lifelong commitment to the values I learned as a Royal Marine. Now as a part-time Reservist and Clarion employee, those values — integrity, discipline, humility, and striving for excellence continue to influence every aspect of my life. It’s also about resilience and perspective: staying cheerful in adversity, learning from others, and maintaining a strong sense of purpose in both military and civilian roles.
- Charlie P
With over 20 years as a Logistics officer in the RAF, at this time of year I reflect on two deeply meaningful logistics roles. One involved arranging Compassionate travel, enabling service personnel to return home swiftly during family emergencies—highlighted by a case of a soldier flown from the Belize jungle to Ireland in under 12 hours.
The other was overseeing the dignified repatriation of fallen personnel to the UK, ensured by flawless professional logistics on behalf of grieving families, including those of a close friend. These experiences, though emotionally intense, taught me lasting lessons in empathy and team purpose, both key Clarion values.
- John M
One of the big lessons I took from the Army is that no plan survives contact with the enemy. That’s not to say plans aren’t useful, but the process of planning is what really matters, because it gives everyone a shared intent and the ability to adapt when things inevitably change.
“Trust in the process” was something the Army excelled at, and I carry that into the world of work, particularly around change. People are organic, not mechanical or predictable, so their growth and behavioural change can’t be forced. It needs to be nurtured, fed, and protected. Just as you can’t rush a flower to bloom, people will often change when they are ready, not when we demand it. Even under the pressure of time, our role is to create the right environment, trust the process, and let the change unfold in its own good time.
- David F
I spent a fast and furious few years in the British Army straight after university. I went to Sandhurst for a year before joining the Royal Artillery where I specialised in Air Defence and UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles).
During my six years in the military, I learnt a lot about myself and others, especially during training and operations. I initially looked after 30 soldiers as a Troop Commander, my favourite role, taking them to Iraq in 2009. I loved having a high level of responsibility at a young age. The Army sent me around the world, including a four-month exchange to New Zealand! My final tour was to Afghanistan in 2011 where I looked after a senior British Officer in Kabul, working with Afghan politicians and even going to Afghanistan’s own version of Butlins for the day! Right up my street!
The military taught me resilience, leadership and many other values that I have carried forward into civilian life. I cherish the memories of my whole time in service and believe it continues to help and guide me through life both at home and here at Clarion.
- Alex H
I served for 22 years in the Royal Navy, retiring as a Warrant Officer II Communications Technician in the Warfare Branch. Based on a strong foundation of technical expertise, my military career instilled in me a deep appreciation for mutual trust and cohesive teamwork—values that continue to guide my professional journey.
On joining Clarion Insight over 4 years ago, I found a workplace culture that mirrors the camaraderie and collaborative spirit I valued in the Navy.
Today, I apply those same principles—trust, tolerance, and team ethos—to help foster a supportive environment that benefits both our clients and colleagues alike.
- Stuart B