01/10/2026
Why belong to The ARNO?
What does it actually mean to belong to an association?
It’s a fair question.
We all belong to enough things these days. We have memberships, subscriptions, loyalty schemes and online groups. So why join an association?
The simple answer is that an association is about people. Coming together with others because we have something in common. It is about shared experience, shared interests and, importantly, a sense that we are part of something.
That is what The ARNO is.
Of course, there are advantages to membership. There is uniform available to borrow or buy, social events, an offer with private members club, The Rag - Army & Navy Club, an exclusive package with Tin Trousers Limited, reunions, communications, RAC breakdown cover and the practical support that comes from being part of an established organisation. These things matter and we work hard to make sure that membership represents good value.
But they aren't really the reason The ARNO exists.
People join The ARNO because they want to belong.
For some, that connection goes back many years. For others, it may be the friendships and experiences they have made more recently. Some members are regular faces at events; others may rarely come along but value knowing that The ARNO is there. Some join because a particular benefit catches their eye, while others simply feel that this is an organisation they want to support and be part of.
And all of those are perfectly good reasons.
There is no single way to be an ARNO member.
Perhaps the best way to think about it is this: you don't join an association simply to receive something. You join because you believe in the value of being part of something. And it’s not just about what you get out of it, it’s sometimes about how you can help others.
Membership helps us maintain the organisation, continue its traditions, bring people together and provide the benefits and services that our members value. The more people who choose to belong, the stronger that community becomes.
Sometimes, membership proves its worth in ways you didn't expect. You might need a piece of uniform. You might save money on your breakdown cover. You might meet someone who becomes a lifelong friend. You might discover an event you would otherwise have missed. Or you might simply enjoy knowing that there is a community of people who understand where you've come from and what you've experienced.
You may join The ARNO for one particular reason. You stay because you belong.
So, if you've ever wondered whether joining an association is really worthwhile, perhaps the question isn't “What do I get?”
Perhaps it is:
“Do I want to be part of it?”
We hope the answer is yes.
Join here: https://www.arno.org.uk/ ,it takes two minutes!
