A highly-decorated former SAS soldier has issued a powerful plea for the reinstatement of national service, branding it a vital cure for Britain's 'fragmented and rudderless' society.
Colour Sergeant Trevor Coult MC, a veteran honoured for his bravery in Iraq, argues that mandatory service would provide crucial discipline and a sense of common purpose for a generation he views as increasingly lost.
A Crisis of Discipline and Purpose
The ex-special forces hero painted a stark picture of a young generation lacking structure and respect. He believes a year of compulsory service would be transformative, teaching young people 'how to get up in the morning, how to iron a shirt, how to treat people with respect.'
'We are in a real mess as a country. The kids are out of control,' stated C/Sgt Coult. He emphasised that this isn't solely about military training but about building character and community spirit.
Beyond the Barracks: A Modern National Service
The proposed model is not purely military. Coult envisions a programme where young people could choose to serve in a variety of sectors crucial to national life.
- Military Training: A traditional route instilling discipline and teamwork.
- Emergency Services: Supporting police, fire, and NHS crews.
- Social Care: Assisting in care homes and community projects.
- Environmental Work: Contributing to conservation and infrastructure projects.
This approach, he contends, would not only build skills but also foster a greater appreciation for public service and the institutions that hold the country together.
A Unifying Force for a Divided Nation
At its heart, the call for national service is about social cohesion. Coult believes forcing people from all walks of life to work together would break down social barriers and help create a more integrated and understanding society.
'It would get people talking to each other again,' he said, highlighting how it could mix individuals from different economic, social, and regional backgrounds in a way modern life rarely does.
With his extensive combat experience and deep concern for the nation's future, C/Sgt Coult's powerful intervention is set to ignite a fierce debate on the state of Britain's youth and the measures needed to guide them.
