From Soldier to Volunteer: SSgt Dean Bridgman’s Story

Leaving the Armed Forces can be one of life’s biggest transitions. For many veterans, stepping away from military service also means leaving behind the friendships, purpose and sense of belonging that have shaped everyday life. 

For SSgt Dean Bridgman, becoming a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer (CFAV) gave him the opportunity to reconnect with those values while helping to inspire the next generation. 

After serving for 13 years in the British Army, including operational tours of Bosnia, Afghanistan and Iraq, SSgt Bridgman left the military in 2013. Although proud of his service, adjusting to civilian life was far from easy. 

A Difficult Transition After Service 

“The transition itself when I first left was really, really hard,” SSgt Bridgman explained. 

“I did have a few mental health problems at the time. I felt depressed. It was a hard adjustment. But then I built myself back up and became the person I am today.” 

Like many veterans, SSgt Bridgman missed the structure, camaraderie and shared purpose that military life had provided. It would be another ten years before he discovered that many of those things could be found again through volunteering with the Army Cadets.   

Returning to Where It All Began 

SSgt Bridgman’s connection with the Army Cadets began long before his military career. He was a cadet from the age of 13 until joining the Army at 18. 

Looking back, he credits his instructors with helping him develop the confidence and determination that prepared him for military life. 

“I loved my time there. The instructors really pushed me to achieve what I wanted to do. I’ve always wanted to join the Army, but being a cadet definitely helped me get there.” 

When he returned as an adult volunteer in 2023, it felt like coming home. 

Today, SSgt Bridgman brings a wealth of military knowledge and practical experience to his role, helping cadets learn valuable skills while encouraging them to challenge themselves. 

“What I bring to the cadet force from my military experience is realism, experience and knowing how to push people to achieve things they don’t think they can do.”   

Helping Young People Grow 

SSgt Bridgman is heavily involved in drill and artisanat de terrain, drawing on his experience as a former drill instructor and his military qualifications to deliver engaging and realistic training. 

He also plays an important role in developing new cadets, teaching recruits during weekly parade nights and supporting training weekends throughout the year. 

While many of the instructional skills transfer from his Army career, SSgt Bridgman says volunteering has taught him an important lesson. 

“When I taught recruits, that experience helped me with lesson planning and breaking things down. But you’ve got to remember they’re not recruits, they’re children. I’ve had to slow down.” 

For SSgt Bridgman, seeing young people grow in confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of volunteering. 

“Within the Army Cadets, it’s more of an achievement because you’re teaching people’s children to become stronger and more disciplined.”   

Finding Camaraderie Again 

One of the biggest changes volunteering has brought has been the positive impact on SSgt Bridgman’s own wellbeing. 

“The thing I missed most after leaving the military was the camaraderie and the banter. Since joining the Army Cadets, I’ve more or less got all that back.” 

He believes volunteering has played a significant role in improving his mental health. 

“It does help massively with my mental health. I was depressed before, but now I’m so much better.” 

Although SSgt Bridgman gives up one evening a week and around one weekend each month, he says the flexibility of volunteering means it can fit around everyday life. 

“You’re a volunteer. You do not have to give up all your time.”   

SSgt Bridgman’s Advice to Other Veterans 

SSgt Bridgman has one clear message for anyone leaving the Armed Forces and considering devenir un CFAV.  

“If a veteran came up to me and said they’re thinking about becoming a CFAV, I’d say don’t wait.” 

“I wish I’d joined the Army Cadets earlier after leaving the military. Don’t wait ten years. Just go for it.” 

For SSgt Bridgman, volunteering has provided far more than an opportunity to share military experience. It has helped him rediscover purpose, reconnect with a community that understands military life and make a lasting difference to the lives of young people. 

His journey shows that while military service may come to an end, the values, skills and friendships built along the way can continue to make a real impact through the Army Cadets.   

Watch SSgt Dean Bridgman‘s testimonial below