Situation Vacant - General Required
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Situation Vacant - General Required

Prince Harry is standing down from his role as Captain General of the Royal Marines. He is the 5th man to hold this post in history, picking up the baton and 5 star rank from his grandfather Prince Philip who retired in 2017 after 64 years.

So it's time to recruit a replacement. Here are three suggestions.

  1. A randomly invited member of the public
  2. A ballot among serving Royal Marines
  3. A lottery open to the public

A random invitation

It wouldn't be the first time a randomly selected non-royal person has been given 5 star rank. In 1920, the unknown warrior was chosen from among the unknown dead of the First World War to stand for all, and given the rank and honours of a Field Marshall when he was buried "among the kings".

One hundred years on, perhaps the Royal Marines should revive this tradition of honouring someone of humble origins as a representative of the Crown, the country and the people that they serve.

More recently, former Royal Marine Peter Kelly showed an inspiring example of business in the community by giving a share of his company to someone who he had never met before.

This approach will do most to widen the reach of the Royal Marines in our society - creating the chance that any one of us could become Captain General.

A ballot

Ballots for honours are a Royal Marines tradition too. After the Zeebrugge Raid on 23 April 1918, Victoria Crosses were awarded by ballot to two members of the 4th Battalion of the Royal Marines to recognise the valour of the whole unit (under a royal warrant).

What if serving Royal Marines were invited to nominate candidates for the post of Captain General? A way to recognise unsung family members, teachers and others whose public service reflects the ethos of courage, determination, unselfishness and cheerfulness.

A lottery

A middle way that would create the opportunity for more people to be involved with the Royal Marines - while potentially raising funds for the new Royal Marines Museum and its educational work, or the Royal Marines Charity. Tickets could be sold and the winner appointed Captain General for a year.

Harry's legacy

Prince Harry has worked tirelessly to bring the military community closer to the hearts and minds of the general public. It would be a fitting legacy for him if he was followed by a General from the public.

What do you think?

James Goodall

EHS/Risk Management

5 年

They should appoint an injured/amputee veteran. Someone who has had it hard from time in the mil should be given an opportunity to promote, get paid a little and have some nice experiences.

It’s just been announced: Princess Royal.

Geoff Graham

Infrastructure PM at Moneybarn Vehicle Finance Services

5 年

Bring the position, back into the folds of the corps, as an officer (serving) appointment. After all. Boot necks know bootnecks best

Will Hairsine

Executive Manager | Cyber Security Consultant | Enable Role Model 2024 | Ambassador at JobOppo and the OD Academy | Trustee | Veteran | Mentor | Ally

5 年

The Duchess of Cambridge.

Marc Smith CMIOSH

Health & Safety Manager Icon Tower

5 年

Sorry but for me, no celebrities, no public involvement; I’d like to see somebody who totally understands the Corps and embodies its spirit. Whilst I’m sure there are many who could represent the Corps whilst stood on ceremony, I want to see somebody who can also sell the Corps, watch our backs and safeguard our future. We are fortunate (and I am fortunate) to have seen (and served with) some great leaders of men who would be ideal for this role; it is amongst them that I would look.

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