Chris Fletcher

How I Started:

I left school with a few qualifications but not enough to do the college course that I wanted. I attended college for a few months before deciding I wanted to get away from classrooms and do something practical.

This led to me starting an application to join the Royal Marines. I started my 32 weeks basic training 2 weeks after my 17th birthday. I passed for duty as an original troop member (only 9 out 64 and the youngest member for the troop).

In thrived on the physical training required to pass training and excelled in the Commando Tests at the end of training to receive my green beret.

My Greatest Achievement:

I served my country in an operational capacity in Iraq in 2004 and Afghanistan in 2007 and 2010 receiving Operational Service Medals for both conflicts.

In 2010 I saved the lives of American airmen after their helicopter was shot down in hostile action.

I have represented the Royal Navy and Royal Marines in Judo

My Greatest Challenge:

My greatest challenge was overcoming adversity when the vehicle I was travelling was hit by an IED throwing me from the vehicle. The 2 others in the vehicle sadly passed. I recovered and deployed on a second tour and saved lives.

My Hobbies:

In my spare time I coach girls football at U13, U15 & U18’s, I play football train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

My Future Aspirations:

My future goals would be to support the growth of women’s football in a coaching capacity and highlight careers available within the Armed Forces as a genuine career opportunity for young people.