LT HARRY DOWNIE left the TA in March last after six years service. He enlisted into 'C' Coy, 3rd Bn The 5lst Highland Volunteers (Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders) at Grangemouth in February, 1976. He was Best Recruit at the Bn's Annual Camp at Thetford in 1976, and as a result went before a Selection Board a few months later and found himself an Officer Cadet with his unit within nine months of joining.

In 1978 he was confirmed in the rank of Lieutenant after completing his Platoon Commander's Course at Brecon; and a damned hard course it was too, he recalls! He served with some distinction as a Pltn Crndr in Grangemouth, leading his platoon to victory at the 51 Highland Patrolling Competition in 1978. Later he visited the USA, where his Coy were guests of the Florida National Guard for two weeks, working with NG units and their equipment. He had the opportunity to draw some interesting comparisons between American and British soldiers. The peculiar camaraderie that existed between all ranks in the US infantry is, he thinks, something that is quite beyond the experience of the British TA soldier, even those who belong to Highland units. It is not surprising that Harry is an honorary member of the 'Green Berets'.

In 1979 he transferred to 'G' (London Scottish) Coy when his employers, BP Chemicals Ltd, transferred him south to London. He continued to serve as a Pltn Cmdr with us until his resignation.

Of his most memorable experiences, the occasion on which 'G' Coy won the Champion Company Competition in Germany last year is probably one of the best. He was instrumental in taking the Company Military Skills team to victory, and contributed greatly to our prowess on the athletics field.

Although Harry has no regrets at leaving, he feels that his six years in the TA has enriched his life in many ways. It has taught him about man-management, self-discipline and people generally. It will always be something on which to look back with gratitude, despite the ups and downs.

Harry intends to use his new-found leisure applying his man- management skills around the house, by devoting more time to his three young children. He also plans to re-organise his garden by concreting the flower-beds, and playing lots more rugby, badminton and tennis.