Warrant Officer Ashok Chauhan has proudly served in the British Army for over 40 years, embracing a variety of thrilling roles and experiences.
In his current position, he focuses on public engagement, promoting the Army as a rewarding career path and fuelling recruitment efforts.
Picture credit: Ashok Chauhan Facebook
This responsibility feels second nature to Ashok, whose deep passion for the organisation shines through whenever he dons his uniform—a moment that fills him with immense pride every time.
“I love spending hours polishing my shoes, ironing, and ensuring my kit is spotless,” he shares. “For me, it’s all about personal pride.
“As a young trainee soldier, I vividly remember seeing a Warrant Officer who looked impossibly sharp. I prayed that one day, I’d earn the right to be like him—that people would call me ‘sir.’ I’ve achieved that dream, and every time I wear this uniform, I stand taller with pride.”
Ashok’s story begins modestly. Born in Kenya to a large, struggling family he describes as “poor,” he moved to Slough, near London, at the age of 14. Though he wasn’t particularly drawn to academics, his athleticism and lively spirit drove him to dream of seeing the world. After finishing school, he decided to pursue a career in the Armed Forces. While opportunities in the Royal Air Force and Navy were unavailable, the Army welcomed him.
That decision became life-changing—a choice that brought both challenges and blessings in abundance.
“I thank God every single day,” reflects Ashok. “I’ve experienced things most people can only fantasize about.”
“I’ve met incredible people and traveled the world through sports. I honestly feel so fortunate,” he recounts.
After completing initial training in Woolwich, Ashok was stationed in Gutersloh, Germany, joining the Royal Artillery as a Gunner. Over time, he honed his skills, took on diverse roles, and steadily climbed the ranks, advancing from Gunner Surveyor to Regimental Training Warrant Officer.
Despite his many accomplishments, Ashok openly acknowledges that his early days weren’t without struggle. With honesty, he recalls the challenges he faced as he adjusted to a new life, away from family and in an unfamiliar environment.
“I used to cry myself to sleep in the beginning,” he admits, recalling the loneliness of being far from his loved ones. “It was a huge cultural adjustment—I had to do everything on my own for the first time.”
“It was also strange entering a space where most people were white. But no matter how tough it felt, quitting was never an option for me. If you left, it was like announcing to the world that you’d failed. Instead, I focused on the rewards of hard work—they made everything worth it.”
Picture credit: Ashok Chauhan Facebook
While Ashok has countless fond memories of his service, there have also been difficult chapters. One of the harsher experiences was serving during the Falklands War.
“It was incredibly cold, miserable, and I deeply missed my family,” he recalls. “But experiences like that shape your character—you grow from them.”
For Ashok, his career highs more than compensate for the lows. The Army has taken him across the globe, from Australia and South Africa to Israel, Egypt, and the United States, as well as operational tours in Northern Ireland (three in total), the Falklands, the Gulf, Bosnia, Cyprus with the United Nations, and Afghanistan.
In recognition of his achievements, Ashok was awarded the Adjutant General’s Commendations and the Goshan Medal in 1998 for both his contribution to the Royal Regiment of Artillery and his sporting prowess. A year later, in 1999, he received an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, providing the unforgettable opportunity to meet Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Ashok is just as celebrated in the sporting arena as in his military career. He has competed at the highest levels in boxing, squash, and cricket.
“I’m a true royalist—I’ve always admired the Royal Family. Going to Buckingham Palace was a lifelong dream come true for me,” he says. “I’ve earned countless medals, trophies, and commendations, but receiving the MBE was the pinnacle of my career.”
“Over the years, I’ve met so many famous and respected figures through my role. Meeting them, you realize how down-to-earth they are. It’s a privilege to wear the uniform and represent both my regiment and my country.”
Today, nearing retirement and proud grandfather to two, Ashok remains as committed as ever to inspiring the next generation. A large part of his current role involves attending events and introducing people from all walks of life to the possibilities within the Army.
“Whenever I attend an event, my mission is clear: to showcase the Army—to sell the cloth, as I call it,” he explains. “My job is to boost recruitment and spread the word about the incredible career opportunities we offer.”
“The uniform is who I am—it’s my identity—and I want everyone to know that no matter where you come from or what your background is, you can achieve greatness in the Army. We offer careers ranging from doctors and pharmacists to engineers and drivers. You name it, we have it,” he says.
“The Army is a world-class career option. Our motto is simple: ‘Be the best or join the rest.’ As I approach retirement, I look back on a career filled with honour, privilege, and unforgettable experiences. It’s been the best decision of my life.”
