News
June 26th 2013
Funeral Director from Lincoln supports Uniform to Work Day
Debbie O’Connell in her work attireA Funeral Director from Lincoln is supporting Uniform to Work Day by wearing her military uniform into her civilian workplace.
In her civilian life Debbie works at Jonathan Whiting Independent Funeral Directors, on Queen Street in Lincoln, but has always had an interest in the Armed Forces from a young age.
Debbie said: “My brother is actually serving in the 1st Royal Tank Regiment but I have always had a personal interest in being a part of the military myself. After leaving university I decided to join my local TA unit and have honestly never looked back. In my opinion the TA offers unrivalled experiences and there is something every person can take away with them. If you have dedication and commitment you can improve your confidence, make loads of new friends and take part in a variety of field-based exercises. A highlight for me so far was the camaraderie of being involved in a freedom parade in the London area, marching through the city with pride for those coming back from tours of duty.
Debbie wearing her TA uniform to work said: “I decided to support Uniform to Work Day this year as I wanted to raise awareness of what our Reserve Forces do in the community and abroad serving alongside regular soldiers. My employer has always been really supportive of my role in the TA and is very understanding of my training needs because they know I bring my discipline and an increased skill set in some way back with me to my civilian role.”
Julie Whiting is Debbie’s Line Manager at the Funeral Directors. She said: “We are very proud to have a member of our team in the TA; her dedication to all her duties is commendable.”
Uniform to Work Day takes place every year ahead of Armed Forces Day and this year is taking place today (26 June) throughout the country.
