On our return from Northern Ireland, I was sent on a course that would qualify me to be Lance Sergeant. Soldiers are usually given two or three weeks preparation before attending but I was sent on the course without being afforded the opportunity to attend the necessary pre-course.
My first day was difficult because I was below the expected standard so I explained my situation to the tutor who then gave me extra lessons in the evenings. When it became clear to me that I had been set up to fail, I determined to pass the course and prove them wrong.
A Chinese proverb says: "Before a brilliant person begins something great they must look foolish in a crowd."
I surprised everyone by completing my course with a "pass" and returned to my regiment expecting my promotion.
That was almost two years ago and as I watched people, who completed the course after me, being promoted I worried that my career was going nowhere. I felt I was working in a place where the colour of my skin was an issue and it all came to a head on St. Patrick's Day, 17th of March 2006.
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