We are proud to introduce you to Tristan: an active soldier who agreed to answer our questions.

- Hello Tristan, introduce yourself quickly: age, school background, passions:

My name is Tristan, and I'm 25 years old. Before joining the military, I obtained a Bac +2 in Marketing. I am passionate about photography, sport. I also admit to having a weakness for evenings with friends (laughs).

- Why did you become a soldier?

I saw this job as an opportunity to "restructure" myself. The Army gives a certain framework, and that's what I was looking for. And then, wearing a uniform makes you someone different, you are no longer a civilian.

- What is your background in the army?

I did the non-commissioned officer school (ENSOA) directly.

- How did you prepare to become a soldier?

In total, I followed a training program with a coach in the gym 3 months beforehand.

- Which regiment are you part of? Why did you choose this one?

Because of my specialty, and the needs of the regiment, I made the choice to join the 41 RT. It is a Transmission regiment based in Douai for those who do not know.

- What did you find most difficult during the selection/recruitment process?

Nothing in particular, apart from my ignorance of the different trades and specificities of each regiment of the Army. Honestly, the Army in general is a really big organization. We can't imagine the number of specificities and sub-businesses that exist.

- What impressed you the most? Do you have any regrets?

The richness of the Army and its great strength, I would say, is its ability to bring people together who sometimes have nothing to do with each other, and to make them work together. When I joined the regiment, I met comrades who became real friends.

The Army also allowed me to discover new countries, new traditions.

I have regrets yes... Unfortunately the Army "takes up space". After 5 years of relationship, my girlfriend and I broke up. I found that there was a world between training and practice.

- Your best memory as a soldier?

The story is nice (laughs): on my 21st birthday, I was at demonstration school, so we were in the field. I didn't tell anyone it was my birthday.

While we were walking at night, in the rain, at midnight the group took a break. My comrades made me stand on a table, without explaining to me. Then they started to applaud me and to sing me "Happy birthday".. It's still a good moment of camaraderie, I really appreciated.

- Have you participated in external operations?

Yes, currently I participated in 3 OPEX. Among the 3, Chammal impressed me the most.

- What advice would you give to a young person who wants to become a soldier?

In my opinion, the choice of specialty is fundamental. Obviously, you should not neglect your physical and mental preparation, regardless of the regiment targeted, otherwise you will pick up.

Ditto, for the moments a little less funny, try to put things into perspective otherwise it will quickly be hell for you.

So that we can offer you other interviews of this type, we suggest that you share this article with those around you.

Would you like to ask Tristan more questions? Ask them in the comments, we will send them as soon as possible!