Royal Marine by heart

Captain Philippa ‘Pip’ Tattersall is the first female soldier to wear the green beret. She did this by refusing to give up on one of the toughest commando selection courses in the world. The eight week programme is the only elite training of its type in the world where women can compete with men.

As she prepared for the grueling task, the weight on Captain Tattersall’s shoulders must have felt considerably more than her 22lbs of equipment. This would be her third and final attempt. If she failed there was the potential for tabloid mischief such as ‘Pipped to the post’ and ‘Tatters-all in tatters’. Perhaps then it is of no surprise that someone of her undoubted character succeeded where a handful of other women tried and failed.

Her triumph could have potentially embarrassed the MOD top brass. After all Captain Tattersall will never be a Royal Marine because women are barred from fighting on the front line. But in the end the press was surprisingly subdued. Whether it was down to good work by MOD press officers, or a patriotic media caught up in the mood of the World Cup and Jubilee, the reaction was largely positive. Whatever the reasons, Captain Tattersall was always going to be the biggest part of the story. She showed the kind of bravery and determination for which the Royal Marines are renowned. And while she may never be a marine by name, she has proven three times over that she’s one by heart.

Mark Connolly May 2002