Meet British Lance Corporal Cairns. We asked her questions about who she is, her military career and her role during exercise Brilliant Jump 2024.
1. Where are you from?
I am from a little town in Fife, Glenrothes, on the east coast of Scotland.
2. How long have you been in the military? Why did you join?
I joined basic training in 2019 and went through that for a year. I then went onto phase two training for a few months and then came up to Regiment Scots Dragoon Guards. I joined the army because I have always wanted to do something outdoors or sporty.
3. Have you every deployed before?
I have deployed on a few exercises but unfortunately, I missed out on a deployment to Mali. I have been to Oman twice; I have been to Germany and skiing with the army twice to Austria. It’s been good.
4. What do you do in the military?
I am a gunner on the Jackals, armoured fighting vehicles. I am the only woman gunner in the unit.
5. What do you do in your spare time?
I like to play rugby and have been playing for a quite a while now. I like to go to the pub and spend time with my family and friends back home. I’m fortunate because I’m based at Leuchars and it’s only 30 minutes from my home.
6. What is the best thing about being in the military?
It’s the people. You can make lots of friends and there are lots of laughs.
7. What are you enjoying about being part of this exercise?
Working with different nations and finding out what their capabilities are.