Lt Col Mike Butler @CO_AFC Twitter profile

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

I needed to get the bike and spaniel home in one run. As you can tell from her face, this was not the correct answer. 🐶🚲😑

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

I am delighted to report Travis has been found and has been reunited with his family!! Huge relief all round. Thank you to everyone for the incredible amount of support and offers of help. This has been a great example of the military community pulling together.

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

Despite 80 vol staff scouring Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon and the surrounding countryside, Travis is still missing. The family are being looked after by our very capable welfare team. Tonight will be Travis’s third night away from home. *Please share widely* @NYorksPolice

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

I have watched this young man’s long journey to realise his dream and become a paratrooper. His brother would be so proud, as are we. Good luck in your career Pte Doherty, I salute what you have achieved. @TheParachuteReg

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Most recruits don’t smoke on arrival, yet most do by graduation. This is unacceptable. We stand for health, fitness and developing potential and smoking isn’t compatible with this philosophy. We are banning it for recruits from next week and will be smoke free for all in 2020.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

Friends and families often complain they don’t see enough photos and videos of their JS during training. Willing to learn, we got them all in one place for you! Good luck finding your JS! #whereswally see you all on Thursday for graduation! 🇬🇧

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

We did it! We rowed the terrifying, majestic Atlantic. We achieved everything we set out to do and I am so greatful and proud to represent the Army and to show what our young soldiers, fresh from training, are capable of. Thank you to everyone for the overwhelming support.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Friday cuteness with the new pup in the HQ. Even after 22 years in the military, I still appreciate that most Army bases allow dogs in work.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

After the first 6 weeks, Junior Soldiers are allowed to choose their own bedding. In 1 section 29 platoon, this is also the case - but only if the person opposite chooses it for you… coming your way @ITC_Catterick ! 🦄 👸 🛏

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

Apart from being factually incorrect, the Guardian/BMJ argues that enlisting at 16yrs is inherently damaging to young people. I argue that culture, routine, a parental figure, friendships, education, sports, adventure and leadership are anything but.

UK army should stop recruiting children, health experts say

Report says ‘irresponsible’ policy of recruiting 16-year-olds put their health at risk

www.theguardian.com

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

A red-letter day at the AFC as we welcomed our Honorary Colonel @captaintommoore for a visit. He was a phenomenal guest and there are lots of great photos to follow! @BBCLookNorth @yorkshirepost @ForcesNews @AP

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Junior Soldiers from the Army Foundation College, the next generation of the @BritishArmy , flank the crematorium doors as a guard of honour. Today they have paid their respects to their Honorary Colonel @captaintommoore . Farewell Colonel, you will be sorely missed.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Legendary @captaintommoore is the College’s first-ever Honorary Colonel. What a privilege for our 2000 recruits, staff and contractors. Future generations of Junior Soldiers will learn about his courage and selfless commitment through this special connection. @BritishArmy

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

Raised by single mum, never knew his dad, aged 11 he couldn’t read, no prospects... joined the Army at 16yrs, became a commmado, a paratrooper and an officer - the best of his intake. Our recruits were mesmerised. #socialmobility @gunner_net @29_commando #YourArmyNeedsYou

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

The two best of 1000 recruits in the College - JRSMs Watson RAMC and Doherty PARA. Impressive beyond words. JRSM Doherty’s brother was killed in action in 2008. Ten years later his mum, through tears in the recruiting office said ‘if you really must join up, make this year count’

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

The nation has lost a hero today, rest in peace Colonel. 🇬🇧

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

Sat reading arrival letters from Junior Soldiers... “I want to join the Army because all my life I’ve been told I won’t be anything and I’ll either be on drugs or dead by 18. I just want to prove them wrong and this is the best way how...” From a young lad in care from 4yrs old

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

So pleased that Cpl Ben Parkinson has finally got the financial support he deserves. An inspirational paratrooper with incredible resilience and a wicked sense of humour... often supports the College, and always welcome 💪 @DNRCOfficial

ITV News Calendar

@itvcalendar

6 years

Ben Parkinson has finally won his fight for a long-term care package, more than 12 years after he suffered catastrophic injuries. He is the most wounded British soldier from the war in Afghanistan.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Such a dignified and moving tribute to our fallen this evening. Pte Doherty is an inspirational young man who will do @TheParachuteReg proud. He was the best Junior Soldier in the College and has a great future ahead of him.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Can’t stop thinking about the courage of this family. Having lost JJ in 2008, Fin joins up in 2018 and goes on to become the best recruit in the College - driven by his love for his brother, his family and his Regiment. A privilege to meet you all and best of luck Pte Doherty 👏🏻

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Graduation for Cambrai and Waterloo companies today. Congratulations to the 513 recruits who become ‘trained soldiers’ in just a few hours. And a special mention to Junior Regimental Sergeant Major Warner, the best Junior Soldier on Parade. #worldclass

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

At Harrogate, everything is done as a team. Friday laundry, by the right… 🇬🇧 💂🏻‍♂️

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

Junior Soldier and @BrianWoodMC - this really is a family business. Well done Brian, phenomenal effort 👏

Rt Hon Johnny Mercer

@JohnnyMercerUK

3 years

What. A. Boy. Well done to @benshephard @susannareid100 for getting him on, @ashalexcooper and all those who have supported him so much. Incredibly proud of this guy. Personifies the values he remembers in each of those who died in Afghanistan and Iraq.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

A fantastic day celebrating the graduation of 450 Junior Soldiers into the @BritishArmy ! Thanks to @TheRoyalLancers , @TheWelshCavalry , @RoyalAirForce , @RHChelsea and @BAB_Catterick for making it extra special!

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

Look at the life chances of these vulnerable 16yr olds we are snuffing out. Taking them skiing to Bulgaria this week is reprehensible. Exposing them to adventure, leadership, competition and camaraderie could permanently alter their long term prospects. #guardian 😜

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Remembered. #shinebrightbrodie

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Few decisions a teenager can make require more courage than joining the Army. We welcome over 600 trainees today and acknowledge what a brave step they have taken. This is going to be a hell of a ride - hang on and grab every of the many opportunities coming your way! #worldclass

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

Today we marked the end of ATHENA 1, a trial optimising Basic Training for 45 female JS. Fewer have become injured; fitness test passes and retention have both increased. In March, ATHENA 2 will start, incorporating what we have learnt so far - this time for 100. 💂‍♀️💂‍♀️💂‍♀️🪖🇬🇧

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

Sound on 🔊 and watch to the end 🔚 Cambrai Company pass out for a long weekend and see their loved ones for the first time in 6 weeks. The CSM giving them a bollocking en route to their mums is a real highlight! 😂 #belonging 🇬🇧 💪🏽

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

Obligatory coffee stop. 🇬🇧 ☕️ 🇫🇷 #ThisIsTheWay

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Lunch with these three lunatics, ten days into their training yesterday. I asked if any of their 12-strong section were struggling. “Not really. We are like a chain. Any weak link would cause us to fail and so we help each other all the time.” Was not expecting that. 🤯

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

A weekend of rehearsals, getting ready for the big day on Thursday. 600 new soldiers, ready for careers in the @BritishArmy 🇬🇧 🪖 🫡 💂🏻‍♀️ 💂🏻‍♂️ 💂🏼 💂🏻‍♀️

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

Here we go! Final rehearsal. Over 600 on parade and it’s pretty warm! 🎶 🥵

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

Whilst out on Ex LIONS CLAW recce patrols, Cambrai Company Junior Soldiers were remarkably fortunate to find an enemy position with a generator, a projector and sufficient data signal to stream the big game. What a stroke of luck! #engvswal ⚽️ 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

3rd rehearsal for the Graduation Parade. The RSM’s vocal chords are feeling the strain, but holding strong. Such a buzz around camp in Grad week. Love it! #YourArmyNeedsYou #afc @HqItg

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

For decades we have mowed a huge field at the College which is essentially unusable because it’s so boggy. This year we decided to leave it alone. Nature is amazing - orchids everywhere. #rewilding

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

In today’s Mirror, Ethan King 18yrs: “I had five different sets of foster parents. I started fighting, took drugs... and was getting into trouble with the police. It’s hard to imagine how I got this chance” [to be a Junior Soldier]. #socialmobility

Meet the young soldiers helping combat serious shortage in army's ranks

EXCLUSIVE: Many of our 73,000 regular soldiers come from Harrogate Army Foundation College, where 16 and 17-year-olds, mainly boys but also some girls, are trained to enlist when they become 18

www.mirror.co.uk

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Many thanks to @CO_3RegimentAAC , @TheWelshCavalry , @BAB_Catterick , @captaintommoore , @NYorksPolice , @NHSNEY and the many others who helped make today so special (and safe) for the Junior Soldiers and families of Cambrai Company 🙏 👏 #belonging

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

I’m delighted to share the news that following our inspection in May, The Army Foundation College has been graded as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. The grade reflects the hard work and dedication of the #OneCollege team in a challenging year. 💥 🍾👍🏻🪖 👀 ➡️

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

Tomorrow, I hand over command of the AFC to Lt Col Mike Butler. Sad to leave but happy to see the #OneCollege team left in such good hands. Thank you to everyone who has supported AFC during my tenure. You may have picked up on the hints of where I’m off to… 🇬🇧 👋 🫡

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

Honoured to be the new CO AFC(H). Huge thanks to my friend Si Farebrother for his fantastic efforts over the last 2 years. I wish him and his family the very best for their time at @RMASandhurst . And now, to the privileged task of serving the bright future of the @BritishArmy .

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

Enjoying a weekend lie-in? 😴 🛌 Bet you’re not enjoying it as much as the junior soldiers from Alamein, Burma, Cambrai and Peninsula Companies. First six weeks in the @BritishArmy ✅ A well-deserved week off ahead for JS and staff. Big smiles & proud families. 🔊 on!

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

This morning I had the pleasure of awarding a CO’s coin to a life saving Junior Soldier from Waterloo Company. On noticing a fellow JS choking on food, he administered a Heimlich manoeuvre, freeing the airway. Selfless and courageous, Bravo! #armyconfidence 👨‍⚕️💂🏼‍♂️

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

Well done to the Junior Soldiers and their staff for completing 100 laps of the College as part of #CaptainTom100 ! 🏃🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️ Feeling inspired? Do it your way 100 times, raise money for charity and have an awesome long weekend 👉

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Waterloo and Cambrai graduation parade with our Senior Inspecting Officer, @UrchTyrone . Even in these difficult times it’s really important to recognise the achievement of these remarkable young people. @LWC_UK over to you! #armyconfidence #belonging

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Even during parade rehearsal there is time for mentoring and role modelling. WO1 (RSM) Skinner here giving Junior Regimental Sergeant Major Doherty some words of advice as he takes charge of the 700 strong parade for the first time. #worldclass @TheParachuteReg @ComdITG

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

Well done to all the Alamein, Burma, Cambrai and Peninsula Company Junior Soldiers who graduated today. An epic parade, overseen by @ArmyCGS in front of well over 5000 friends and family. 👏 🇬🇧 💂🏻‍♂️

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

How about this for a team photo / RSM command task?!? The Staff and Junior Soldiers of the Army Foundation College August 2021. (Click to see the whole thing!) #OneCollege #OneTeam 🇬🇧 🪖💂🏽‍♀️💂🏼💂🏻‍♂️👨🏽‍🎓👩‍🏫👨🏻‍✈️

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 months

Thrilled that @BearGrylls has been appointed Honorary Colonel of AFC(H) by His Majesty The King. An inspiration for JS and staff alike, Col Bear’s message of Courage, Kindness, and Never Give Up is a perfect match for the @BritishArmy values and standards we strive to live by.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

The view from the other side of the tray:

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

Happy Christmas Cambrai Company! 🦃 🎄 🎅 🎁

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

The British Army only sees potential. Sure, many of our Junior Soldiers didn’t flourish at school, but it doesn’t matter. 98% leave AFC(H) with Maths and English qualifications, trained to lead and enrolled on an apprentiship. 🇬🇧 💂🏻‍♂️👨🏽‍🎓👊🏼

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

Happy Christmas Cambrai Company! 🦃 🎄 🎅 🎁

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

28 days

*OFSTED REPORT* In March we were inspected by Ofsted - the first time since 2021. Delighted to announce the College was graded Outstanding in all 4 judgement areas. ✅✅✅✅ Huge thanks to the College staff for setting our JS up for success in the @BritishArmy , and in life.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Good luck to Alamein Coy for their Graduation Parade today. Revel in the flying button, scuffed boots, loose thread panic as you rush to get ready. Enjoy every moment, for you young women and men are truly remarkable. #worldclass

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

In the last 10 days @RAFBenson CH 47s have lifted over 1700 Junior Soldiers, numbers not seen since the busiest days of Op HERRICK in Afghanistan. Phenomenal training for @BritishArmy trainees and @RoyalAirForce crews. #BetterTogether 🤜 🤛 🇬🇧

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

We're back! A whole new year of training the next generation of @BritishArmy leaders. Have a look at what the Junior Soldiers get up to in this video 👀📽️🇬🇧🪖💂💂‍♂️💂‍♀️Sound on! 🔊

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

🔊 Sound On! 🔊 What a way to start a graduation parade! The deafening roar of a Typhoon from @41RTES , @RoyalAirForce starts the proceedings of a fantastic day. Well done to all 650 new @BritishArmy soldiers! @HqItg @StnCdrLeeming

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Good luck to all the new arrivals at the College tomorrow. Over 300 Junior Soldiers starting our ‘short course’ and about to experience the most intense and rewarding 6 months of their lives. Arrive, make friends, train hard, become a leader, graduate. Sorted. 🤛 #worldclass

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Army bans smoking at Harrogate training college...

Army bans smoking at Harrogate training college

An officer says it is "unacceptable" most recruits don't smoke on arrival, but do by graduation.

www.bbc.co.uk

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Junior Soldiers, now over half way through their year-long course, have embarked on the ‘tactical exercise’ phase of training. A total of a month in the field over winter honing their soldier craft and leadership. These are quite extradinary young women and men. #worldclassITG

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Not #BackToSchool ! Today, just under 300 new Junior Soldiers are joining the Waterloo Company short course. Starting apprenticeships, gaining educational qualifications 👩‍🎓 and leadership accreditation whilst being paid 💰 to start their careers in the @BritishArmy 💂🏼‍♂️Good luck!

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Huge thanks to @hallvista for his time and effort leading the College for almost 3 years! I’m really excited to be taking up the challenge, shoulder-to-shoulder with @SkinnerStevan and all the staff from @BritishArmy , @compassgroupuk and @Pearson_TQ .

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

🚨change of RSM! Farewell and thanks to Capt Matt D’Arcy from @TheParachuteReg , moving onto @ITC_Catterick . Welcome WO1 (RSM) Lansberry from @TheRoyalLancers . A pivotal role and the ultimate role model for all Junior Soldiers. 🪂 ☠️ 🇬🇧 🫡

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

For the first time in over 2 years, Junior Soldiers are back in Normandy. Studying the D-Day campaign (OVERLORD) and learning the realities of war. Critical and irreplaceable training. 🇬🇧🇨🇦🇺🇸🇫🇷

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

What a day! Just reflecting on the achievement of over 700 newly trained soldiers as they depart the College for the next stage in their careers. They were immaculate on parade today and we wish them the very best of luck in their journey to become Army leaders. #worldclass

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Tip of the hat 🎩 to Max Woosey, fundraising for North Devon Hospice. He has now slept outside for a YEAR 🏕 and has raised £250k! Max, if you like sleeping outside, do I have the job for you 👊🏼! ⁦ @armyjobs ⁩ #confidence

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Meet the best of the best in recruit training right now. Just days away from graduating, and hours away from finding out which two will become Junior Regimental Sergeant Majors. The Army’s future leaders right here. #worldclass @TheParachuteReg @FusiliersRHQ @ArmyMedServices

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

It would have been a good week to own shares in @Brabantia (other brands are available!). 330 new ironing boards and attached Junior Soldiers have arrived to form the Cambrai Company Long Course. Heading to @RoyalArmdCorps @UKArmyLogistics @ArmyInfantryHQ & @rhqra in 12 months!

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

What’s the most important, genuine and coveted assessment of our success? Ofsted? good for reputation. Chain of command? Helpful, but all on same team. No. It is this👇. The holy grail of transformation validation and why we come to work each day. #worldclass @emma_clements

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

What a day! Congratulations to the JS from Burma, Cambrai and Waterloo Companies who graduated today. Their success is, most of all, a testament to their hard work, commitment and determination. They should be extremely proud of their achievements 👏🏼

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

Welcome, 336 new recruits joining the Army at AFC Harrogate today. This is the largest intake into a single company we have ever had...actually oversubscribed. Brace for impact! #yourarmyneedsyou #afc #forceatlantic @CathPossamai @ComdITG @ArmyComdtRMAS @UrchTyrone @HqItg

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

My message to Junior Soldiers as they reach the seminal ‘week 6’ 1 Nothing good comes easy. 2 Focus on one day at a time. 3 Committing to the team= acceptance=friendships. 4 In this race of life, the Army removes any disadvantages and allows them to compete. #onetwothreeone

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

During an emotional funeral for my father, my mum snuck away to sit with her grandchildren - and be entertained by their craziness. A beautiful moment in a difficult day. Rest in peace old boy - we’ll miss you terribly.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

Wonderful to welcome back the family of @captaintommoore to officially open ‘Captain Sir Tom Moore Walk’. This will now be the final path Junior Soldiers take as they graduate into the @BritishArmy . 💂🏼👏✂️

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

One of our Harrogate based instructor’s children has been missing for over 48hrs. His name is Travis Golden and he is 15yrs old. We are trying to spread the word/picture and searching the area with volunteers from the base. Very worried. Also waiting for @NYorksPolice ....

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Our young men, aspiring to join @TheParachuteReg , are a breed apart. They are pushed to their limits on a daily basis and have the best of brotherly bonds. I love seeing them train and I know they are now ready for @2ITB_Catterick to take them further. @maj_fox @UrchTyrone

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

Super busy arrival day for Alamein, Burma and Peninsula Coys. 610 Junior Soldiers from all over the UK🇬🇧. Welcome to the @BritishArmy , there is lots of hard work to come but also new friends for life and an amazing career! #belonging #faillearnwin #army

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

2 years

Good Morning 🌅 🏃‍♂️

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

As you burn sausages on your BBQ this evening, raise a glass to the Junior Soldiers of 26 Platoon, Alamein Company. Today they helped @dementiaforward refurbish the grounds of their office in Burton Leonard. All part of their @DofE Bronze award. 💪🏼 🎖 🥵

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Reception Day. 332 new arrivals making the biggest and best decision of their lives. Many @ArmyCadetsUK and @MPCT_HQ graduates... but lots without any experience at all. It doesn’t matter - this is the world’s most comprehensive soldier Basic Training. We teach them everything

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Best of luck to the 350+ new recruits staring with us on Sunday. You have made one of the most profound decisions a 16/17yr old can make. The Army is one hell of a ride!... apart from ironing that is. Ironing is boring - as you will discover. #worldclass #bestpaidteenagers

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Ahead of the College restarting training this Sunday, the staff have spent the last month planning and implementing measures to keep us all safe. This morning we are rehearsing safe physical training sessions. Doesn’t mean it won’t be hard though 😜 @BritishArmy @HqItg

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

Fabulous news for @leecneville , Tom Skinner and Mark Jenkins who are all selected for promotion to Lt Col today. Two of them have served in every rank from Private to get there! #hardyards #veryold 🍾 🎉

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

With all the Junior Soldiers working from home this week, we have had an opportunity for staff training. Today, a great session from @RAPTC_Official on optimising female training during the menstrual cycle and sports bras. Link to follow on Defence Connect shortly. 👩 🏃‍♀️ 💂🏻‍♀️

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33

204

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Our two best Junior Soldiers competing for the prize of top recruit, known as Junior Regimental Sergeant Major. JS Jackson REME ( @Official_REME ) and JS Warner RA ( @rhqra ) are both outstanding... but need to work on their scary face! Announcement to follow 🏆 #ArmyConfidence

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12

196

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

3 years

This morning 65 Junior Soldiers from Burma Company were presented certificates marking their achievements to date and the start of their military education pathway. Huge thanks to our in-house education team @Pearson_TQ 📖 👨‍🎓 🇬🇧 💂🏼‍♂️

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198

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Another emotional Reception Day draws to a close. 334 new Junior Soldiers started their journey through the College - it will be the most intense experience of their lives. Courageous young men and women taking their first steps to becoming leaders. #socialmobility #worldclass

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Massed pipes and drums, cheering families, proud staff, inquisitive dignitaries and, above all, immaculate Junior Soldiers. Graduation was ace and HRH The Earl of Wessex a joy to host throughout the day. These fine young men and women represent the best of our great country.

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Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

Well Kerryanne, you have one hell of an impressive young man right there. I love that nothing is holding him back and that he is thriving in the ACF. 💪 Send me a message if you would be interested in a visit to the College - perhaps to our Grad parade in Feb? @CumbriaACF

Kerryanne Wilde - MBA MIoD MIoL MBII

@KerryanneWilde

6 years

@CO_AFC @BritishArmy @_BurningBright_ @macgregorcs @ad_recruiting @neilsexton659 @ComdITG @BrianWoodMC @CathPossamai @bigphilcampion @jamesdeeganMC @damekellyholmes My 16yr old son watched it and loved it. He's gutted he'd never pass the medical as he has #CerebralPalsy and is #PartiallySighted . He's in @CumbriaACF and was top cadet at 2018 summer camp. He'd have loved to fallen in my footsteps. He'd have made a fantastic soldier.

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3

18

185

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

10 months

A nail-biting officers Vs Sgts’ mess Xmas football match in play. Live score: Sgts’ mess: 13 Offrs’ mess: 0. 5 mins to go… Confident the officers can pull this back!! ⚽️⚽️😂

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3

193

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

4 years

We have just finished building our mountain bike track! 🚵 ‘Sports & Skills’ are used to develop teamwork, confidence and resilience in our Junior Soldiers. The programme also contributes to our Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme @DofE @ArmySportASCB #MTB

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185

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

I hope this is well received. Either way, its production typifies ‘mission command’... no media chaperone, no training, no interference, no stage management - just freedom, trust and empowerment from Army HQ to show what the College does. @neilsexton659 @ComdITG @BritishArmy

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182

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Daily Telegraph: “The Army Foundation College must be the most successful education establishment and social mobility platform in the UK” @ChildrensComm @SocMobAPPG @SocialMobilityF @socialmobpod @UKYouth @saeedatcha @YEUK2012

6

38

187

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Andy McNab: “At 16, the Army taught me to read and it changed my life.” From illiterate delinquent to soldier, author and inspirational speaker - a story of the incredible social mobility provided by the Army’s Junior Entry system. @ChildrensComm

Andy McNab: ‘At 16, I read my first book – and it changed my life’

When he joined the army, the author had the reading age of an 11-year-old. But he can still remember the pride he felt at reading his first book

www.theguardian.com

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46

181

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

6 years

Good luck to the nearly 300 #rawrecruits starting out on their first day in the British Army with us today. The journey will not be an easy one but we will teach you everything you need to know. Your part in the deal? 100% effort 100% of the time. @CathPossamai @HqItg #AFC

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23

179

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

1 year

Three more sleeps until 2023 summer graduation! On Thursday, 555 JS from Alamein, Burma, Peninsula and Waterloo Companies will graduate from the College, continuing their journey in the @BritishArmy . The anticipation is building! 🇬🇧

18

16

181

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Delighted to have raised £12k for @Soldierscharity from the @ForceAtlantic Dinner Night. Huge, Huge, huge thank you to @antonycotton and @JohnNicholRAF for jumping up to sell their respective lots - generating £7.5k between them. 😇😇

7

20

172

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

1 month

This Sep we are 100% full, with our new Cambrai Coy (324 strong) JS arriving today to lead the way. Three other coys (Alamein, Burma, and Peninsula) start next Sunday. Great to chat to so many excited JS and parents today. The adventure begins!! 💪🏼💂🏽‍♂️😎 🇬🇧

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8

178

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

Taking a short break from here as we depart on our Atlantic rowing race tomorrow. Weather is looking challenging to say the least - 40kt winds for the first 36hrs and a big atlantic swell🤢. In at the deep end! Follow the @ForceAtlantic drama on the tracker app as it unfolds!

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176

Lt Col Mike Butler

@CO_AFC

5 years

These Junior Soldiers have successfully completed their first military exercise and their first night in the field as recruits. A seminal moment which they will never forget. What exercise do you remember above all others? #worldclass #rawrecruits

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