Firefighter and Soldier: Balancing Dual Service with Dedication 

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) proudly supports Reserves Day by recognising the role of reservists within our workforce and the wider community.

The skills, dedication, and experiences reservists bring from their military training enhances their contributions in emergency response and public safety situations, making them an asset to our workforce.

One such person is Troop Admin Sergeant Chris Locke, a dedicated Firefighter with Green Watch at Pontypridd Fire Station, and a Reservist with 157 Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps, based at Maindy Barracks, Cardiff.

Initially joining SWFRS eight years ago as a retained Firefighter, Locke transferred to Wholetime service three years ago.

“Becoming a firefighter was a childhood dream,” he says. “I’ve always wanted to help people.”

Another of Locke’s childhood dreams was to become a soldier. Joining the Army at 16, he served for six years, and rejoined as a Reservist in 2014. Now with over a decade in the Reserves, he balances both roles with determination and pride.

“It can be stressful and time-consuming juggling both jobs,” he admits. “But I’ve got great support from my wife Becki, sons Alfie and Myles and both employers. It really is the best of both worlds.”

Locke credits his military training for boosting his resilience, fitness, and leadership skills – qualities he uses daily in the fire service. “The mental resilience, teamwork, and even adventure training all helps to builds you up,” he says.

“Every day as a firefighter is different – it’s just one big adventure and I get such a sense of belonging, not just to my watch, but to the wider community.”

Jake Alpert, SWFRS Chief of Staff says: “Reservists bring a lot of experience and professional skills to our service, including discipline and the ability to work well under pressure.

“As a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, we are committed to supporting veterans and reservists within our ranks and are proud of their sacrifice and dedication in their service to both civilian and military roles.”

Locke’s Commanding Officer, Lt Col Tom Shaw, describes him as “an exceptional firefighter and soldier,” highlighting the transferable leadership and teamwork skills developed through military training.

To anyone considering a career in the Fire Service or Reserves, Locke’s advice is simple: “Give it a go. You never know what opportunities will come your way.”

SWFRS supports the Armed Forces Covenant and is dedicated to being an armed forces friendly employer.