February 20th: Today’s Feature

February

Colonel (Ret’d) Andy Allen MBE, as an Army Cadet, had a genuine interest in the Regular Army. However, what truly inspired him was the chance to pursue a career that was unfamiliar to his family and be different. He sought a life filled with adventures that were beyond the imagination of the average young black Londoner.

After completing his training at Sandhurst, Andy joined the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME). During his REME Young Officers' training course, he achieved the distinction of being named the "Best Young REME Officer" among his peers. This marked the beginning of his journey as a trailblazer.

One of Andy's personal career aspirations was to become the first black British-born Regular Army Colonel. In 2008, when he was promoted to the rank of Colonel, he believed he had achieved this milestone. Throughout his career, he constantly pushed himself to excel at each rank. Unfortunately, his ambition to become the first black Brigadier was not realised before he resigned from the Army in 2015.

As a professional engineer specialising in helicopters and guided weapons, Andy had an impressive academic background. He obtained a BEng, MSC, and an MA during his service. In addition to his educational achievements, Andy was a Chartered Engineer and a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society. He also held a position on the Board of Trustees to the Royal Aeronautical Society, showcasing his expertise and influence in the field.

Throughout his career, Andy held various significant roles in different locations. He served in the UK, Germany, Hong Kong, Iraq, and Afghanistan, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability. Notably, in 1999, as a Major, he was honoured with an MBE by HM The Queen, recognising his exceptional contributions. One of his notable appointments was as the Deputy Chief of the Iraqi Security Forces in 2008, where he played a crucial role in training and preparing Iraqi security personnel for their governance responsibilities.

Andy's accomplishments extend beyond his professional career. He excelled in various sports, including qualifying as a Sub Aqua Dive Leader and gaining international rugby honours while playing for Hong Kong. Additionally, he achieved the qualification of a ski instructor and became the Director of Senior Army Rugby, which led him to attend the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand in his capacity. These achievements highlight his diverse interests and well-rounded personality.

As a Colonel and Chief Air Engineer/Assistant Director Operational Support in the Joint Helicopter Command, had a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of various Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force aviation sites. His responsibilities included conducting regular visits to these sites to verify the presence of adequate manpower, maintain engineering standards, and oversee logistics. These visits were essential to ensure that all aspects of the operations were functioning efficiently and effectively.

Reflecting on his career, Andy recalls that during the early stages, he was more preoccupied with being an officer from a working-class background rather than being black. While he acknowledges the existence of overt racism, he is grateful for the positive changes that have taken place over time.

The Army has made significant strides in understanding and addressing the challenges faced by its BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) community, and there are now senior officers designated as BAME Champions. Additionally, the Army has established a recognised BAME Network, which further supports and promotes inclusivity within the organisation.

Andy is optimistic about the future and the progress being made in terms of diversity and representation within the Army. He acknowledges that while overt racism did exist, he is grateful that times have evolved, and the Army has made significant strides in comprehending its obstacles and providing support to its BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) community.

Andy is heartened by the presence of senior officers who actively champion BAME causes, the establishment of a recognised Army BAME Network, and the remarkable achievement of having not just one, but two black Brigadiers. With optimism, he envisions a future where the Army will celebrate its first black Major General.