'The age of 65 is like Dad's Army', says Northampton veteran
Older veterans could be called up for war under new government plans
Older veterans could soon be called up for service under new government plans to boost Britain’s readiness for war.
The Armed Forces Bill will increase the maximum recall age from 55 to 65, making it easier to mobilise veterans in a crisis. The changes are due to take effect from spring 2027 and will not apply to those who have already left the military unless they choose to opt in. The government says the new measures are intended to strengthen Britain’s military preparedness in an increasingly uncertain world.
John Sherriff runs a Northampton drop-in centre for veterans through the Veterans Community network, a place he said is for local veterans to come together for a cup of tea, a chat, and full support with mental health issues or financial problems.
Sherriff, who is also a veteran, said he can see the positives but also the challenges to the recall plans, and stressed that careful considerations are required by the government.
Upon hearing about the government's latest plans for veterans, Sherriff joked that his first reaction made him think of 'Dads Army' but on a more serious note, he said he understands why the government requires the extra military support. He reflected:
''The age of 65 is more like Dad's Army to be honest, but we've got to do whatever we can as a country to support what's going on and we all just want to be safe...the world's a volatile place at the minute.''
Sherriff expressed that although age may be a disadvantage, the wealth of military and life experience older veterans bring, could be a real asset.
He continued: “We’ve got a lot of experienced veterans out there and a lot of guys have served their country well for many years.
''The experience is there, even if they’re veterans are not there on the front line, there’s a lot of experience they can pass over to anybody else that’s coming in. Various levels and training would be invaluable.”
Sherriff also stresses the importance of considering health and fitness before calling up former veterans for war: “There’s no point in sending someone out there that’s on crutches or who’s got serious health issues or mental health issues. They government have to look at the fitness and check how people are before they're going to put a veteran back in the military.”
Regardless of the challenges, Sherriff said many veterans would still feel ''honoured to serve'' if called upon. He added:
“We signed on a dotted line to serve King, Queen and our country and that never goes away.''
For further information and support visit: The Veterans Community Network