in 1952, the 17th entry applicants aged 15 years were required to enter into a contract with the air ministry obligating the successful candidate to serve a minimum of ten years (effective from age 18) plus two years raf reserve service. no pension payment was offered to those serving until age 28, who were discharged at the end of their contract with one month's paid leave as compensation. the 17th entry were also trained in the operational use and maintenance of firearms and other weapons: rifles with fixed bayonets, machine guns (bren and sten guns) and hand-grenades.