Potential Med Discharge/Training Advice Needed

[Isis]

Right folks - I'm after a bit of advice so here's the background:

Almost a year ago I turned up at the great RAFC Cranwell to become an officer in the RAF. Anyway, due to injuy I spent a good part of this past year on RAD Flt having rehab on an injury I recieved in training. Having managed to fight my way back on to mainstream training I have had further problems with re-occurance of my injury. Just as it seemed we were out of the woods I went on Ex DE (massive leadership test exercise) and managed to both fail and re-injure in a pretty big way (not one for doing things by halves).

Having seen the physio I can tell this isn't a quick fix job. Apparently if I was going to continue with mainstream training I could be 'patched' through, then fixed properly post graduation. However I now need 'Delta Flt' training - basically a specialised leadership training package, based around physically beasting ppl around a number of exercises over a 2 month(ish) period. The physios have told me there's not a chance I'll manage it physically - even post rehab, and to be honest in their position I wouldn't sign me off on it either, it is their professional reputation on the line after all. So what I need is an alternative method of leadership training that I can embark on for 8-10 wks that will improve me sufficently to be considered worthy of equivelent Delta status. The DS don't seem to have a clue how to deal with me, but I refuse to believe the current training is the only way, or even the best way, in which I can improve my leadership skills.

Current feeling among the staff is they might well pack me back off to RAD flt for a bit, but if that happens I will almost certainly be med discharged, and it still doesn't help the fact that even if they don't discharge me I won't manage the delta training even post-rehab. Generally this idea is a real no-go as far as I'm concerned.

So, given bosses like solutions, etc etc, what can I go to my boss with as a suggestion that might be a winner? I'm tempted to suggest they give me a hold in the real RAF to allow me to develop some confidence and presence, or get some media/presentation training/experience, but I have no idea if they would go for any of that - or on the details of such things.

As an aside - my problem isn't really achieving tasks, its just my time at OACTU has left me a crushed shadow of my former self - I used to be poised, confident and someone you noticed; I had presence and natural authority. I seem to have lost all that during my time in the training system, and I think all I need to do I find the old, pre-IOT me.

Ok - that's a rather long post with a fair bit of ranting in it - all I can say if you can then please advise. I am realistic that the chances are I'm going to end up having a year of rehab then be discharged but I've fought too hard to get and to keep my place at Cranwell to give it up without trying everything possible first. If I have to explain to the Gp Capt himself why I should be offered an alternative training package I will do.

Thanks

PS - Mods if I'm posting in the wrong forum I apologise.

 

[gemarriott]

Right folks - I'm after a bit of advice so here's the background:

Almost a year ago I turned up at the great RAFC Cranwell to become an officer in the RAF. Anyway, due to injuy I spent a good part of this past year on RAD Flt having rehab on an injury I recieved in training. Having managed to fight my way back on to mainstream training I have had further problems with re-occurance of my injury. Just as it seemed we were out of the woods I went on Ex DE (massive leadership test exercise) and managed to both fail and re-injure in a pretty big way (not one for doing things by halves).

Having seen the physio I can tell this isn't a quick fix job. Apparently if I was going to continue with mainstream training I could be 'patched' through, then fixed properly post graduation. However I now need 'Delta Flt' training - basically a specialised leadership training package, based around physically beasting ppl around a number of exercises over a 2 month(ish) period. The physios have told me there's not a chance I'll manage it physically - even post rehab, and to be honest in their position I wouldn't sign me off on it either, it is their professional reputation on the line after all. So what I need is an alternative method of leadership training that I can embark on for 8-10 wks that will improve me sufficently to be considered worthy of equivelent Delta status. The DS don't seem to have a clue how to deal with me, but I refuse to believe the current training is the only way, or even the best way, in which I can improve my leadership skills.

Current feeling among the staff is they might well pack me back off to RAD flt for a bit, but if that happens I will almost certainly be med discharged, and it still doesn't help the fact that even if they don't discharge me I won't manage the delta training even post-rehab. Generally this idea is a real no-go as far as I'm concerned.

So, given bosses like solutions, etc etc, what can I go to my boss with as a suggestion that might be a winner? I'm tempted to suggest they give me a hold in the real RAF to allow me to develop some confidence and presence, or get some media/presentation training/experience, but I have no idea if they would go for any of that - or on the details of such things.

As an aside - my problem isn't really achieving tasks, its just my time at OACTU has left me a crushed shadow of my former self - I used to be poised, confident and someone you noticed; I had presence and natural authority. I seem to have lost all that during my time in the training system, and I think all I need to do I find the old, pre-IOT me.

Ok - that's a rather long post with a fair bit of ranting in it - all I can say if you can then please advise. I am realistic that the chances are I'm going to end up having a year of rehab then be discharged but I've fought too hard to get and to keep my place at Cranwell to give it up without trying everything possible first. If I have to explain to the Gp Capt himself why I should be offered an alternative training package I will do.

Thanks

PS - Mods if I'm posting in the wrong forum I apologise.

I have read your post several times and whilst I have a certain amount of sympathy for your situation the highlighted paragraph gives me reason to think it is time you gave up on the RAF. It appears obvious you are not suited to life in a blue suit, especially as a commisioned member if the training designed to improve your confidence has in fact done the opposite. Your old pre IOT "you" was a civvy remember?

There is a far wider range of careers in civvy street that you may be better suited to.

good luck.

 

[Isis]

I have read your post several times and whilst I have a certain amount of sympathy for your situation the highlighted paragraph gives me reason to think it is time you gave up on the RAF. It appears obvious you are not suited to life in a blue suit, especially as a commisioned member if the training designed to improve your confidence has in fact done the opposite. Your old pre IOT "you" was a civvy remember?

There is a far wider range of careers in civvy street that you may be better suited to.

good luck.

Honestly it may just boil down to that, however, while I still have a chance at staying I plan to fight for it.

I really believe in the 'real' RAF, but we all know that the training system does not often reflect that reality. I'm sure I would get on better as a yes man telling all and sundry how fab the training at IOT is.

But at the end of the day does the RAF really need another mindless clone of an officer who can tell all their Airmen/women/NCOs how fabulous the RAF is? Or should we perhaps be looking for intelligent people who can identify when and where improvements can be made and have the balls to speak up? The RAF should be employing people like me, who have informed opinions and are willing to share them (as opposed to muttering them to mates over a pint at the pub) and to fight for their place, in training, in the RAF and for improvement to be made. I'm a passionate believer that the RAF is an amazing organisation. I also believe that yes men won't keep it like that.

Obviously I'm biased - but I'm being taught the RAF is adaptable and agile, and needs it's people to be likewise. I am - now I want my instructors to demostrate those same traits.

Obviously no offence intended here - your entitled to your view, as am I to mine, it's just a little closer to home for me.

 

[Downsizer]

Honestly it may just boil down to that, however, while I still have a chance at staying I plan to fight for it.

I really believe in the 'real' RAF, but we all know that the training system does not often reflect that reality. I'm sure I would get on better as a yes man telling all and sundry how fab the training at IOT is.

But at the end of the day does the RAF really need another mindless clone of an officer who can tell all their Airmen/women/NCOs how fabulous the RAF is? Or should we perhaps be looking for intelligent people who can identify when and where improvements can be made and have the balls to speak up? The RAF should be employing people like me, who have informed opinions and are willing to share them (as opposed to muttering them to mates over a pint at the pub) and to fight for their place, in training, in the RAF and for improvement to be made. I'm a passionate believer that the RAF is an amazing organisation. I also believe that yes men won't keep it like that.

Obviously I'm biased - but I'm being taught the RAF is adaptable and agile, and needs it's people to be likewise. I am - now I want my instructors to demostrate those same traits.

Obviously no offence intended here - your entitled to your view, as am I to mine, it's just a little closer to home for me.

At the end of the day, it is a sad fact that not everybodies face fits in the RAF, nor is everybody suitable for military service. Perhaps you need to look at those facts.

 

[mad_collie]

The RAF should be employing people like me, who have informed opinions and are willing to share them (as opposed to muttering them to mates over a pint at the pub) and to fight for their place, in training, in the RAF and for improvement to be made. I'm a passionate believer that the RAF is an amazing organisation. I also believe that yes men won't keep it like that.

Really?? at least you have a belief in yourself. See below for text from your original post, and see if there is a trend building here:

Just as it seemed we were out of the woods I went on Ex DE (massive leadership test exercise) and managed to both fail and re-injure in a pretty big way (not one for doing things by halves).

Failed leadership? Not a good thing to do from where I'm standing.

However I now need 'Delta Flt' training - basically a specialised leadership training package, based around physically beasting ppl around a number of exercises over a 2 month(ish) period. The physios have told me there's not a chance I'll manage it physically - even post rehab, and to be honest in their position I wouldn't sign me off on it either, it is their professional reputation on the line after all. So what I need is an alternative method of leadership training that I can embark on for 8-10 wks that will improve me sufficently to be considered worthy of equivelent Delta status. The DS don't seem to have a clue how to deal with me, but I refuse to believe the current training is the only way, or even the best way, in which I can improve my leadership skills.

Need a specialised leadership package to improve more . . . . .

As an aside - my problem isn't really achieving tasks, its just my time at OACTU has left me a crushed shadow of my former self - I used to be poised, confident and someone you noticed; I had presence and natural authority. I seem to have lost all that during my time in the training system, and I think all I need to do I find the old, pre-IOT me.

Maybe the time at OACTU has done what is there to do; seperate out those that can and those that cant.

Basically, the people employed by the RAF to run these courses see this sort of thing day after day. A few years ago you would have been out on your ear at the first hurdle.

 

[Isis]

As I've said - it could well be that i have to leave, however I'm looking for constructive advice on the best way to goabout staying!

Thankfully I have recieved some via an alternative source.

I'm sure your comments have all been meant in a constructive fashion, however they failed to come across that way.

I'm sure I come across very badly on these pages, however I assure you the feedback I'm getting from Cranwell is the staff who deal with me day-to-day believe I deserve the commision - they just don't know how to provide the training I need. I honestly don't need advice that I should abandon ship, it's just not helpful at this stage.

Thanks to all who have read, and taken the time to comment, but if people can't help at all perhaps the mods would be good enough to delete the thread?

Thanks

 

[gemarriott]

As I've said - it could well be that i have to leave, however I'm looking for constructive advice on the best way to goabout staying!

Thankfully I have recieved some via an alternative source.

I'm sure your comments have all been meant in a constructive fashion, however they failed to come across that way.

I'm sure I come across very badly on these pages, however I assure you the feedback I'm getting from Cranwell is the staff who deal with me day-to-day believe I deserve the commision - they just don't know how to provide the training I need. I honestly don't need advice that I should abandon ship, it's just not helpful at this stage.

Thanks to all who have read, and taken the time to comment, but if people can't help at all perhaps the mods would be good enough to delete the thread?

Thanks

Delete it?

No way! we seldom get to laugh as much as this, it would be a pity to lose it. The last time I laughed so much was when the police dog bit Kevin's massive nob.

 

[3OCLOCKFINISH]

What exactly is your problem? Dodgy knee/back etc?

If you are still 'broken' after a year or so then perhaps you have to accept that you may simply not make it. There is only so long that you can be given before being kicked out. Presumably you are downgraded so why should you expect to join the real RAF by-passing your training? I'm sure you are well aware there is a wee bit of OOA at the moment, as an Officer it is not like they could send somebody else from your section, it would be you alone who they could choose from.

 

[Martin Blank]

the staff who deal with me day-to-day believe I deserve the commision - they just don't know how to provide the training I need.

Well fek me if the experts on the subject don't know how to train you better and you failed the exercise surely you've reached your ceiling.

Or would you rather the whole fekking course was re written to your own standards just to pass a REQUIRED course.

Man up or Fek off.

Sorry but it sounds like your bleating that the course is too hard for you physically (if you keep damaging yourself) and mentally if you can't make the standards.

If you blame it on you're re injury surely you weren't fit enough to re attempt or should have made sure you didn't make the same mistake.

 

[Moz_Magister]

not a lot of sympathy round here, is there?DT_Xtremez_31:

but if confidence is your problem then you need to realise that you shouldn't need training to be confident

you've got it or you haven't, you're a leader or you're not.

nothing they train you in is any use if you don't have the chin and balls for command.

I suggest you either pass the training or spend the next few years sitting in pubs telling people you were in 22 Reg until you were injured on a mission you can't talk about DT_Xtremez_15:.

good luck

 

[Tubby]

A bit of sympathy for your position but if you want to be in so much then only you can muster the determination to succede, the training arena isn't thier to get you through regardless it's thier to get rid of people who fail to reach the standards required. You don't have the job until you pass out. They wont waste time on giving you to a media officer or anything similar to help you, if you can't cut it they will get rid of you, they expect injuries and I think thats why your still in but if you consistently struggle you will go injury or not. They have already offered an option of delta flight to help you and I bet my bottom dollar thier are people behind you ready to take your place, whats a little pain for two months.

Best of luck but as i said, only you can get yourself through this, if you cant get the motivation to succede then I suggest looking for a career elsewhere.

 

[Sniffer]

Current feeling among the staff is they might well pack me back off to RAD flt for a bit, but if that happens I will almost certainly be med discharged, and it still doesn't help the fact that even if they don't discharge me I won't manage the delta training even post-rehab. Generally this idea is a real no-go as far as I'm concerned.

If I have to explain to the Gp Capt himself why I should be offered an alternative training package I will do.

Thanks

PS - Mods if I'm posting in the wrong forum I apologise.

OK so Ive cut out some of your original post in the quote but I have highlighted the two comments I wish to put an opinion on.

The first one is, if you cant manage the the Delta training even post rehab then how would you cope on an out of area. One would hope that the things you are taught on EIRT course pre deployment, are never required however it is a sad fact that you may very well have to use them and if you have a pre existing injury your ability to carry out convoy ambush drills for example can mean the difference between getting out of there in one piece or not.

The second comment I highlighted raises massive concerns. Why should the training package be changed for you because you cant pass the current one. If they back down on this it could lead to a very slippery slope where every man and his dog who cant pass an element of the training wants a "different" type of training. IE: One they can pass.

Knock it on the head fella and become a civvy David Brent type manager, as I'm sorry but thats how you come across in your posts.

 

[SirSaltyHelmet]

Seems to be a cross between TCO and ILLBW

 

[Hu Jardon]

The DS don't seem to have a clue how to deal with me,

I'm not fookin surprised - you're not related to Dot Cotton are you?DT_Xtremez_21:

 

[Isis]

What exactly is your problem? Dodgy knee/back etc?

If you are still 'broken' after a year or so then perhaps you have to accept that you may simply not make it. There is only so long that you can be given before being kicked out. Presumably you are downgraded so why should you expect to join the real RAF by-passing your training? I'm sure you are well aware there is a wee bit of OOA at the moment, as an Officer it is not like they could send somebody else from your section, it would be you alone who they could choose from.

Erm - slightly more complex then all that. Was broken, was rehab'ed, went back to training, broke (again), and now waiting on some sort of decision. So have been downgraded and upgraded, and now waiting on a decision from the powers that be - I've just never been one for sitting on my arse when I could be improving my situation.

I've got one dodgy knee and a pelvis thing - fairly common in females during training, but it impacts me harder then most because I have a relatively small frame. The experts tell me that in normal service life it won't affect me, it's literally just a training issue.

I don't want to bypass training - I've had an additional training need identified, the current training offered can't meet my needs so I'm looking for an alternative method to achieve what I need to. Solutions not problems! After that I'm more then happy to complete IOT, as all normal officers do.

As for OOA - well it's part of why I joined - no-one chooses the RAF thinking they'll get to stay at home. At least not any more. Again the expert types tell me it's not a problem, and given how accurate they have been on other things I'm willing to believe them!

 

[Downsizer]

As you don't seem to be getting the solutions you require here, thread closed...