Thread by @nicholadrummond

Thank you so much to the 20,000 of you who have seen fit to follow my military ramblings. Delighted to have reached this milestone. I thought it might be interesting to share my motivation for being here and make a few comments about the medium.
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After leaving the Army, I never expected to return to defence. But life is what happens when you plan something else. Seeing the extent to which the Army had atrophied, I felt obliged to use my experience to make a case for its modernisation. That got me going on here.
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I found other voices who shared my beliefs, notably @thinkdefence @NavyLookout @pinstripedline and @AndyNetherwood It has been a complete pleasure to champion the cause of the Army, Navy & RAF. I am so proud of our men and women in uniform. They really are the best of us.
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I’m grateful to have been able to make a living in defence, but only working with firms I believe have something genuinely worthwhile to offer. The problem is that affiliations create a conflict of interest that compromises impartiality. So it’s a difficult balancing act.
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I make a point of stating my industry links and other interests. I’m also careful not be rude or critical of individuals I don’t agree with. I’ve made some great offline friends from my online presence. I am constantly humbled by the stories of others.
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I’ve learned so much from the many experts on this medium. Not just UK military and defence personnel but people from everywhere. I don’t always get it right, but am happy to be proved wrong. Which is why I reserve the right to change my mind!
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I’m grateful to the Armed Forces themselves for engaging including individual regiments and units like my own @WelshGuards and senior officers and politicians prepared to put their necks on the line like @neilsexton659 and @BWallaceMP
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If the Government had bought everything on my shopping list it would probably be bankrupt, but if you work in the capability arena, it’s your job to showcase new kit. So, it’s been a fantastic journey. Thanks very much to all of you who have made it fun & rewarding.
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