The prime role of the Army in N.I was to support and assist the brave boys of the RUC (Royal Ulster Constabulary) in their day to day tasks of policing the province. Whereas we, after our patrol returned to the relative safety of camp, these guys had to return to their communities and live day-in day-out with the constant threat of attack. We also buggered off after 6 months, they were there for life.