Military News

As job requirements go, an impressive set of whiskers is an unusual one. But for Bugle Major Steve Martin facial hair is a must.

Each battalion has had its own bugler since the Rifles Regiment was formed in the 19th century.

Tradition dictates that he must have a distinctive mutton-chop beard so that he is easy to pick out on the battlefield.

The 33-year-old is the latest to take on the job on the frontline after deploying to Afghanistan with 4 Rifles.

Bgl Maj Martin, who also has a combat role, said: "When the Rifles were formed they needed a sound to distinguish them from the line infantry's drums on the battlefield.

"They chose a silver bugle because it carries well on the wind.

"It was vital that those around him could pick him out at all times so they developed a rule that he must grow a distinctive beard.

"I had played the bugle for a while and knew I could grow a beard, so I thought it was the job for me."

Bgl Maj Martin regularly performs at ceremonies, including vigils for fallen soldiers.

• UK
• MIlitary
• army

Sergeant Luke Taylor, 33, of the Royal Marines, and Lance Corporal Michael Foley, 25, of the Adjutant General's Corps, were killed at the entrance to the UK headquarters in Helmand Province in March this year.

Shortly after his death a colleague of Sergeant Luke Taylor said:

"Luke was the kind of guy you wanted next to you - regardless of the situation, he was a cool head and a source of endless banter. I never saw him fazed; he just seemed to "crack on" and many a time dragged those around with him!

"He had one of those infectious charismas, always able to talk himself out of a situation. For me, like so many, Luke was simply an inspiration. Completely dedicated and loyal to his family, you could just feel the warmth when he spoke of them."

• World
• Afghanistan
• Lashkar Gah

Members of the Armed Forces, veterans and their families will get shop discounts as part of a new service.

Companies including Vodafone, KFC, Vision Express, Austin Reed and Vue Cinemas have agreed to offer discounts for personnel and their families as part of the new Defence Discount Service (DDS).

The DDS will launch with a website offering online discounts from High Street companies.It also hopes to offer a privilege card, which will make it easier to access discounts in stores and online.

"We owe a huge debt to the members of the Armed Forces and this new Defence Discount Service is an opportunity for companies to show their gratitude and support," Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said.

"We have had a great response so far but this is just the start and I urge companies large and small, national or local, to come forward over the coming months."

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• Sport
• Tobacco Dock
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The funeral of Private Christopher Kershaw, of 3rd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment will take place later today.

The 19-year-old soldier who died along with five of his comrades when their armoured vehicle was blown up in Afghanistan. Private Kershaw is the last of the six who died in the attack to be laid to rest.

He was killed on March 6 alongside Private Anthony Frampton, 20, Private Daniel Wade, 20, Corporal Jake Hartley, 20, Private Daniel Wilford, 21, all also of 3 Yorks, and Sergeant Nigel Coupe, 33, of 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment.

• UK
• Military
• Afghanistan

Commander Sarah West will become the first female commander of a major Royal Navy warship when she takes up her post later today.

The 40 year-old will take over command of frigate HMS Portland.

The warship is undergoing a refit and, on completion, it will undergo a series of trials before returning to its base port in Devonport before the end of the year. It will then be prepared for its next operational tasking.

Cmdr West said: "Taking command of HMS Portland is definitely the highlight of my 16 years in the RN (Royal Navy) so far.

"It is a challenge that I am fully trained for and ready to undertake.

"I am very proud to be taking command of a Type 23 frigate, which is an extremely flexible warship, and I'm looking forward to taking HMS Portland on operations with a professional and focused team."

• UK
• Military
• Royal Navy

The first female commander of a major Royal Navy warship is taking up her post today.

Commander Sarah West, 40, from Middlesex, joins Type 23 frigate HMS Portland in Rosyth, Fife.

• UK
• Military
• Royal Navy