The Sustainer Autumn 2018

Sustainer THE

Journal of The Royal Logistic Corps R AUTUMN 2018

#RLC25

#WeAreTheRLC

Sustainer THE

Corps Motto: We Sustain Regimental March: On Parade by Albert Elms Regimental Slow March: Lion, Sword and Crown by Craig Bywater

formed in 1993

Volume 26 No 3 R Autumn 2018

3 From the ranks A message from the new RLC Corps SM WO1 Phil Broom.

11 Spirit of St George II The RLC acquires a new yacht.

12 Parchment ceremony Three new Conductors appointed and eight Conductors’ coins awarded.

20 RLC Sports Awards

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The new RLC Sports Awards format is a huge success.

22 Olympic hopefuls We speak to the RLC’s 2020 Olympic Games hopefuls.

24 Gold Coast 2018 LCpl Fern Davies talks about her Commonwealth Games experience.

28 Sport reports 11 pages of reports from The RLC’s sports teams and associations.

39 Ex THREE BASE CHALLENGE 25 Regt soldiers walk 188 miles in three days to raise money for SSAFA.

44 RLC25

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Royal Logistic Corps Open Day 2018 in pictures.

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51 Museum Musings Boxer Henry Cooper and footballing legend, Sir Bobby Charlton both served in our Forming Corps.

53 Unit reports 3 Regt shines on public duties, plus updates from across the Corps.

84 Adventurous Training All 25 RLC Regts send soldiers to conquer the Lake District’s 25 peaks and Ex ARCTIC EXPRESS.

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A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE An RHQ Perspective

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Sport produces soldiers who build and lead teams by habit and reflex. It generates and maintains cohesion.

It nurtures pride and that essential corollary – humility

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Welcome to another actionpacked issue of The Sustainer.

This edition has a sporting flavour.

Sport is a key element of Army and Corps life. As highlighted later in the magazine, in 2014, the then CGS said this: ¨I place a huge premium on sport in the Army. My starting point is that it helps our army win in battle. It plays a vital role in welfare, morale, operational effectiveness and recovery. Sport produces soldiers who build and lead teams by habit and reflex. It generates and maintains cohesion. It nurtures pride and that essential corollary – humility. It encourages leaders to think clearly, confidently and positively when under pressure.

And fundamentally it feeds a winning culture and ethos that inspire hunger for success on the battlefield.”

As a Corps that prides itself on participation for all and by extension, success at every level we are faring very well. At the last count, we were Army Champions (Corps, Unit, Team and Individual) in no fewer than 25 different disciplines.We should rightly shout that from the roof-tops, but we mustn’t rest on our laurels. I look forward to watching the Corps continue to be so competitive over the Autumn and Winter.

In this edition, you will find a plethora of specific sporting achievements and updates, which will hopefully inspire you and whet your appetite for the forthcoming season; or encourage you to don your sports kit and get involved. There is a sport for everyone.

Since I last wrote to you, we have crammed in an enormous amount of noteworthy activity. RLC25 continues at pace.Various units have participated and you’ll find details and updates in the pages that follow.

Specific mention must go to the 25 Peaks challenge, ably orchestrated and executed by Lt Jake Ardley and the outstanding inaugural RLC Sports Awards dinner night. With over 180 in attendance, it was a fantastic tribute and celebration of Corps Sport.

The RLC25 theme remained throughout the Corps Week and Corps Day itself was littered with events in support of it.The Open Day was, once

again, a huge success; the outgoing Corps SM,WO1 Owen, must draw huge pride and satisfaction for signing off in such style.The large screen showing the England World Cup match was a huge hit and the evening’s Party in the Park, with five excellent bands, was impeccably run by 3 Regt. A huge thank you to all involved.

Away from RLC25 we have seen the Corps deployed on operations and exercises across the globe. Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 is now underway in Oman, under the leadership of 9 Regt with elements of 1, 17, 27 and 29 Regts in support and The RLC makes up 20 percent of the British Force deployed on Op TANGHAM in Somalia.We’ve had 3 and 4 Regts deployed on the plains of BATUS and 3 Regt has, once again, picked up the mantle of Public Duties in London and Windsor.The Corps has also appointed the latest Conductors with three recipients confirmed at the Parchment Ceremony in June.You will find the detail of this prestigious appointment in this edition. On the manning front, officer recruitment continues to be extremely buoyant and the green shoots of success across the soldier landscape are starting to be seen.

Looking forward to the ‘winter term,’ the Corps will continue to be active in support of defence commitments.

Significant deployments will continue in Estonia, South Sudan and Oman, and will be complemented by the large joint exercise in Norway.

I would like to sign off by saying a public and heartfelt thank you to the outgoing Corps SM,WO1 (now Capt) Owen. He had a wonderful two years as our senior solider and we have all, I am sure, individually and collectively, thrived under his guidance and from his engagement.We wish him all the very best for his initial commissioned appointment in 7 Regt. At the same time on your behalf, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to the new Corps SM,WO1 Broom. He recently handed over the RSM 9 Regt appointment and arrives to help steer us through the remainder of our twenty fifth year and into the next epoch.This starts with the impending move of the home of the Corps, to Worthy Down.

We Sustain C J Francis Colonel RLC

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FROM THE RANKS Just a couple of weeks into post as the Corps Sergeant Major and I am writing my first edition of “From the Ranks” for The Sustainer. I still can’t quite believe that it is me who has the honour and privilege of serving as the figurehead and voice of our soldiers. So while I sit here and pinch myself, and before I continue, it would be remiss of me not to congratulate my predecessor.

The now Capt SWR Owen, skilfully steered the ship, navigating the Corps and our reputation to a new level. Never has the Corps been held in such high regard! It is through Capt Owen’s tireless dedication, commitment and leadership that so many of us have been able to flourish and perhaps his greatest moment is the RLC 25 parade celebrations!

Good luck for the future and in your new appointment.

The RLC 25 celebrations continue.

The RLC Sports Awards were held as a stand-alone event this year and were a tremendous success; the event is to formally celebrate and recognise the sporting talent amongst the men and women from all ranks across the Corps. The event was enjoyed by the sporting stars, the Corps sponsors and the guest of honour - sporting legend Andy Goode. Well done to the winners and the organisers; this is one event that you do not want to miss in the future.

Still on the theme of RLC 25 and Dettingen Fields, Deepcut, was the venue for yet another successful Corps Day; expertly delivered; and enjoyed by all that attended.The arena events were fantastic as were the many stands. All those involved should be immensely proud and we thank you for your continued effort and support. England beat Sweden 2 0 and although sadly we did not make it to the final, you will always remember where you were watching the World Cup 2018 quarter final. As if the England success wasn’t enough, the Party in the Park event for our soldiers and families deserves a special mention.The behaviour was impeccable, the entertainment was outstanding and I have great memories of the mosh pit! A huge

thank you and congratulations to DSU, 25, 27 and 3 Regts for your efforts!

My congratulations on the appointment of Conductor go to: WO1 (Cdr) P Franks (Pet Op),WO1 (Cdr) A Bannister (AT) and WO1 (Cdr) D Winfield (LSS). And also well done to the nine winners of the Conductors’ coin. A great achievement by all.

As I settle in to life in the headquarters and begin the rounds of the Corps, my travels have taken me to 29 Regt RLC where HRH The Princess Royal opened the Peninsula Gym at The Duke of Gloucester Barracks. This provided the perfect opportunity for HRH to meet members of the Regiment and their families; a huge success, well done all. I attended the CATO conference and the Class 2 Ammunition Technician graduation. Both fantastic events at which I learnt a lot about the trade and I was genuinely inspired by the young ATs at their graduation; well done to them.

I was lucky enough to meet and witness 52 junior soldiers pass of the parade square at AFC Harrogate.

ATC (P) and ATR (W) continue to conduct regular pass off parades of various sizes. At RMAS 33 officer cadets conducted Sovereigns parade to mark the moment of their commissioning into The RLC. The Corps welcomes you all into the family and congratulates the permanent staff on a job well done!

There is a lot to look forward to over the Autumn period: The role out of the Corps Stable Belt, Ex SAIF SAREER 3, Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE 18, the commemoration of Armistice 100, the start of various sporting seasons and of course we continue the celebrations of RLC 25. I look forward to seeing you all during my rounds of the Corps, good luck and best wishes to everyone and stay safe!

Before I sign off a special mention of thanks goes to LCpl Becky Wilson of 3 Regt RLC for her dedication and commitment as the Corps SM’s driver over the last two years.Welcome to Pte Bob Owen of 13 AASR RLC as the new driver. Good luck to you both.

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The now Capt SWR Owen, skilfully steered the ship, navigating the Corps and our reputation to a new level. Never has the Corps been held in such high regard!

WO1 P S Broom Corps Sergeant Major RLC

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EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to the Autumn 18 issue of The Sustainer and to a special sports themed issue which celebrates all of the sporting successes achieved by the Corps over the last quarter and beyond.

Sport is something that most of us enjoy doing, but being British, when it comes to our achievements, we rarely shout loudly enough about them. So it seemed fitting to dedicate an issue to celebrating RLC sport in this special 25th anniversary year.

On 4 May 2018, RHQ The RLC said a fond farewell to Sian Waller. Sian has been a key member of the Corps’ communications team in her role as copy editor.

Sian has now moved to a new role working in the communications team at the Department for Environment and Rural Affairs in London. We would like to thank Sian for all her hard work.

And also it’s time for me to take a side step and handover my responsibilities as editor of The Sustainer to a very safe and capable pair of hands going forward.

I’ll be staying on to lend assistant editor duties for The Sustainer and to focus more on The RLC website.

You can still reach me on rlcsustainer@gmail.com

Charter: The Sustainer records the activities and achievements of the Corps family, its units and personalities, as well as the organisations of the Forming Corps and their Associations. It keeps soldiers of today in touch with each other and soldiers of yesteryear in touch with the Corps of today. The Journal is not only a means of cohesion and communication within the Corps but also a source of research material for posterity.

Editorial Staff Editor: Peter Shakespeare Assistant Editor: Miss Anne-Marie Causer BA (Hons) Graphic Design: David Blake Closing Dates for THE SUSTAINER: 1 Oct 2018, 13 Jan 2019, 10 Apr 2019, 5 Jul 2019 Change of Address: Serving members of the Corps who are due to move into or out of non-RLC appointments (eg E2) and other subscribers are requested to notify the Editor of their change of address. No information, no magazine!

Publisher: The Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps, Dettingen House, The Princess Royal Barracks, Deepcut, CAMBERLEY, Surrey GU16 6RW. Email: peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Tel: +44 (0) 7901 676309 Typesetting, Printing, Binding and Distribution: Holbrooks Printers Ltd, Norway Road, Hilsea, PORTSMOUTH, Hampshire PO3 5HX. Data Privacy: We distribute The Sustainer using mailing data held in a secure contacts database within RHQ The RLC. Your inclusion on this database is by virtue of the fact you are serving in the military, or you are a current member of the RLC or Forming Corps Associations. The Sustainer only uses your personal data for the

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Peter Shakespeare has joined us as content and media editor. In addition to being your primary point of contact for editorial contributions to The Sustainer, Peter’s remit also covers managing production of The RLC Review, the Forming Corps newsletters and also extends to The RLC Website and its social media channels.

Peter was initially commissioned into the Royal Artillery. On leaving the Army, he embarked on a career in journalism, rising to the editorship of two national road transport and logistics magazines.

Before setting up his own PR, marketing and communications business two years ago, Peter was the communications and marketing director at the Road Haulage Association. He holds a Cat C+E driving licence and is a steam locomotive driver on the Mid Hants Railway.

Anne-Marie Causer 8 All future submissions and images for The Sustainer, should be sent to Peter at: Peter.Shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Contact: +44 (0) 7901 676309.

purpose of sending you the magazine. The mailing data is treated in the strictest confidence, is password protected, is only shared with our printer and is deleted after each use. If any serving RLC personnel have concerns with regards to the storage and use of their personal data they should contact RHQ The RLC’s Data Protection Officer, Maj R Barrett. Email: Richard.Barrett862@mod.gov.uk Members of the Associations should contact RHQ The RLC’s Personal Information Risk Manager, Shelley Whittaker. Email: Shelley.Whittaker650@mod.gov.uk Photographs: The Editor accepts photographs for publication on the understanding that those submitting them have, where required by data protection legislation, obtained consent to publication from those depicted. Anyone who believes this is not the case or has a DPA related concern should contact the Editor. peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Advertising: There is normally no space for commercial advertising, please contact the Editor.

Security: This Journal contains official information. It should be treated with discretion by the recipient. © Crown Copyright: All material in this Journal is Crown Copyright and may not be reproduced without the permission of the Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps. © Cartoons are copyright.

Disclaimer: No responsibility for the quality of the goods or services advertised in this Journal can be accepted by the publishers or their agents. Advertisements are included in good faith. The contents of this Journal and views of individual authors or units does not necessarily reflect the policy and views, official or otherwise, of the Corps or Ministry of Defence.

Front Cover: Photograph by Sgt Donald Todd - APO NE

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Honours and Awards The Master General of Logistics receives a Knighthood in the 2018 Queen’s Birthday Honours Lieutenant General Sir Mark Poffley KCB OBE was appointed Deputy Chief of Defence Staff for Military Capability in Jan 2016.

He is responsible for MODlevel planning for joint military capability, across all lines of development: designing the future force; making strategiclevel balance of investment recommendations; working with international partners on future capabilities; ensuring that capability planning by the individual Services is appropriately directed and coherent with Defence-level priorities and affordability. He is also responsible for capability planning and delivery oversight of specific strategic projects, and is the Department’s Senior Responsible Owner for the Carrier Enabled Power Projection programme. Commissioned into the Royal Army Ordnance Corps in 1985, he has commanded on operations with 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC and 102 Logistic Brigade. During the course of his career he has seen operational service in the Gulf war of 1991, two tours in Balkans during the 1990s and since 2001 in Macedonia, Afghanistan and Iraq. He currently leads The RLC as the Master General of Logistics, an appointment he has held since Jun 2012.

Former CO of 4 Regiment RLC selected for promotion to Major General Brigadier D P Amison CBE is to become Director Development, Concepts and Doctrine Centre, in the rank of Major General. He succeeds Major General G I Mitchell MBE in Apr 2020.

Brig Amison is currently Head of Concepts at the Development, Concepts and Doctrine Centre (DCDC). He commanded 4 Regt RLC between 2007-2009. After a short stint on the staff of the Joint Services Command and Staff College he attended the Higher Command and Staff Course in 2010 and was then appointed Deputy Chief of Staff HQ 3 (UK) Division. He was a member of the Royal College of Defence Studies between 2012 - 2013 and commanded 102 Logistic Brigade between 2013 – 2015. In 2014 he deployed as Commander Joint Force Support (Afghanistan) for the final

Queen’s Birthday Honours (Military Division) Appointments to the Military Division of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath As Knight Commanders (KCB) Lieutenant General Mark William POFFLEY, OBE Appointments to and promotions in the Military Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

As Commanders (CBE) Colonel Michael Edward George CALDICOTT, MBE As Officers (OBE) Lieutenant Colonel Nathan CREW The Royal Logistic Corps As Members (MBE) Major Nicola Jane PARRY-BELCHER The Royal Logistic Corps (now Army Reserve) Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal (QVRM) Major Nial Philip BROWNE, TD The Royal Logistic Corps, Army Reserve Staff Sergeant (now Acting Warrant Officer Class 2) Gordon Andrew PURSLEY The Royal Logistic Corps, Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel (now Colonel) Gillian Heather WILKINSON Army Reserve Meritorious Service Medal Warrant Officer Class 1 (now Captain) James Neil AVENT The Royal Logistic Corps Warrant Officer Class 2 Lee Daniel HUGHES The Royal Logistic Corps Warrant Officer Class 1 (now Captain) Keith James RICKERBY The Royal Logistic Corps Warrant Officer Class 2 Neil Matthew SLAVEN The Royal Logistic Corps Warrant Officer Class 1 Jamie Stuart WEBSTER The Royal Logistic Corps Sergeant Anne-Marie WHITEHEAD The Royal Logistic Corps transition and redeployment phase of Op HERRICK. He assumed his current appointment at DCDC in Sep 2015.

In Jan 2019 Brig Amison moves to Army Heaquarters to become Head of Capability Combat Service Support, prior to returning to DCDC as Director in the rank of Major General in Apr 2020.

He was awarded the OBE in 2010 and CBE in 2015. He has also received a Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service (Afghanistan 2007) and two Joint Commander’s Certificate of Commendation (The Balkan Theatre of Operations 1995 and 1999).

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THE SUSTAINER | DEFENCE DIGEST

GLOBAL ADVANCE A snapshot of The RLC across the world

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SOMALIA

Op TANGHAM

1 Over twenty per cent of British Forces deployed in Somalia are RLC. There are five distinct contributions that the RLC makes allowing the Somali National Army (SNA) to be accountable and professional, developing the capability of the African Union Mission in Somalia, assisting the SNA to defeat

OMAN

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Ex SAIF SAREEA 3

USA, FALKLANDS, MALI

Op NEWCOMBE

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RLC Heli Handling Teams from The Joint Helicopter Support Squadron are currently deployed in the USA, the Falkland Islands and in Mali on Op NEWCOMBE. A team also deployed to France supporting 27 Squadron and 3 Commando Brigade on a Combined Joint Expeditionary Force exercise with the French military.

3 Elements of 1, 17, 27 and 29 Regts, as part of the Theatre Enabling Group, based on and commanded by 9 Regt RLC, are deployed on Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 in Oman. With 4,500 military personnel involved the joint UK-Oman exercise is the largest of its kind in seventeen years.

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DEFENCE DIGEST | THE SUSTAINER

CANADA/USA

The Annual Reserve Military Skills Competition

7 A team of female soldiers from 159 Regt RLC has just returned from the annual International Reservists’ Military Skills Competition held in Canada and the USA. Day one saw them on the firing range with a whole host of different weapon systems.

Day two moved onto a land obstacle course and swimming obstacle course where they were commended on their impeccable team work, especially on the giant steps. Day three was a gruelling 18km speed march with command tasks.

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BATUS CANADA

Ex WARRIORS CRAFT 3

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Commanded by 2017 INVICTUS Games gold medallist and RLC Sports Personality of the Year 2018, Maj Bruce Ekman, 12 CS Sqn from 1 Regt RLC is currently deployed on Ex WARRIORS CRAFT in BATUS.

6 SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

INVICTUS Games 5

Captain Lavinia Goddard RLC will be representing Team GB at the INVICTUS Games in powerlifting starting 18 Oct 2018.

BELGIUM

De Bevrijding 3 RHQ The RLC’s Sgt Tony Bysouth and Royal Logistic Corps Heritage have just returned from De Bevrijding in Belgium. De Bevrijding is a seven-day recreation of a 1918 column of soldiers and wagons who travelled over 100 miles to liberate the city of Ghent in the last days of WWI. The team consists of a GS Wagon, a horse ambulance and six-horse gun team.

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THE SUSTAINER | NEWS On Sun 1 Jul 2018, Her Royal Highness (HRH) The Princess Royal visited 10 QOGLR at St Omer Barracks in Aldershot, as part of its 60th anniversary celebrations.

The Regt paraded in front of a crowd of approximately 750 invited guests and family members. HRH The Princess Royal, inspected the front rank of the two Kasam Khane contingents and the Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas who led and supported the Regt on parade.

Following the Kasam Khane ceremony she made presentations to WO1s from the Regt, selected late entry commissions and the recipients of the Regimental Gold Medal.

At the Kasam Khane ceremony, soldiers swear an of the oath of allegiance to the Regt.

An initial oath is taken by all new soldiers as part of the enlistment process where they swear loyalty to the Monarch and to obey the orders of those officers placed over them.The affirmation is a key aspect of joining the British Army and soldiers cannot serve until this oath has been made.

Upon joining their individual Regts as trained soldiers, it is customary for the soldiers in the Brigade of Gurkhas to swear a second oath.This is what is known as the Kasam Khane and in 10 QOGLR it takes place annually.

Gurkha Major, Maj Chakra Khatri said,“Today is a very special day for any Gurkha soldier joining the regiment. It is even more unique with it being the 60th Anniversary of the formation and with our Colonel-in-Chief present to join in the celebrations.”

10 The Queens Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment RLC turns 60

On completion of the parade, HRH The Princess Royal unveiled a commemorative painting in honour of Sergeant Yam Bahadur

Gurung who summitted Everest in 2017. She also presented Pipe Major Sergeant Saroj Gurung a set of silver plated bagpipes as a birthday gift.

RLC CONFERENCE & GORE TROPHY The Master General of Logistics’ (MGL) RLC Conference 2018 will be held in the New College at DCLPA Worthy Down on Fri 5 Oct 18. For those visiting unit teams, or possibly participating, The RLC military skills competition (Gore Trophy) takes place on Sat 6 Oct 18 in Aldershot.

The RLC Conference has replaced the MGL’s Red Tab Cabal,

the MGL’s COs Cabal and his senior officers’ briefing day.

Registration is from 09:20hrs with a prompt start at 09:40. The conference closes at 16:00 hrs. Lunch is included. The DCGS, Lt Gen NAW Pope CBE, has accepted an invitation to address the conference.

Attendance is: Senior officers, COs and RSMs, independent OCs, key staff officers and heads of trade.

152 REGT FOOTBALL Having won the Army Reserve Challenge Cup, beating 6 SCOTS 4-1 in the final at the Aldershot Military Stadium on 21 Apr 2018, the Regt has completed a clean sweep.

On 12 Aug 2018, it won the Army Reserve National Football Six-a-Side Football Championships. The competition was held at Grantham and 152 Regt won both the male and female team crowns. The Deputy Commander Field Army and joint head of the Reserve, Maj Gen Bill O’Leary presented the winners’ medals and trophies.

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER In May 2018,The Right Honourable Gavin Willamson CBE MP, the Secretary of State for Defence, visited Northern Ireland to announce a manning uplift of the reserve forces that reside in the province.

152 (North Irish) Regiment hosted Mr Williamson who was accompanied by the Right Honourable Arlene Foster MLA, the First Minister for Northern Ireland.

He flew into Flying Station Aldergrove and was escorted across Belfast to Palace Barracks in Holywood. As the only Fuel Regiment in The RLC, this was a great opportunity for the Regt to show off its capabilities.With little time to prepare, 152 Regt managed to call on its reservists to come in and meet with the VIPs. The Regt put on a small display, consisting of a Combat Support Tanker (CST) and a Forward Air Refuelling Point to demonstrate the equipment that its soldiers are

TRIATHLON An RLC Lieutenant won fastest officer at the Inter-Services 30th Anniversary Triathlon.

Competing against elite athletes from the Army, Royal Navy and RAF and battling against unusually high summer temperatures, Lt Harry Eaton retained his men’s fastest officer award and secured an impressive second overall place at the annual Officers’ Association Inter-Services Triathlon.

Visit of the Secretary of State for Defence 8 The Right Honourable Gavin Willamson CBE MP signing the 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC visitors book in RHQ

trained on. Cpl Dougan gave a thorough brief on the capabilities of the CST and equipment, so much so

that an excited Mr Williamson wanted to take the CST for a drive round Belfast. The Pipe Sergeant Major from 152 Regt’s pipes and drums gave the guests a traditional welcome playing the regimental march, Green Shadow.

152 Regt, along with 2 Royal Irish, Scottish North Irish Yeomanry, 591 Field Squadron Royal Engineers, will all receive an uplift in manpower, which will make recruiting ever more competitive for the units within Northern Ireland.

The event took place on 25 Jul at Cotswold Water Park.The troop commander from 52 Port Squadron, 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC, along with his fellow competitors, swam through 1.5km of open water, cycled 41km of tricky terrain and finished the course with a 10km run. The high temperatures provided additional challenges.The Army dominated the team prizes, winning both male and female open races and the male veterans’ race.

The efforts of the Army women’s team included retired

Olympic rowing champion, Major Heather Stanning OBE RA. Senior Aircraftman Luke Pollard, RAF, won the men’s race for a record four times in a row.

ALL-RANKS DINNER NIGHT On 11 May 2018, British Forces Cyprus (BFC) held an all-ranks dinner night at RAF Akrotiri.

Open to all serving and ex-RLC soldiers it was a celebration of 25 years of the Corps.

The BFC Chief of Staff, Air Cdre Perkins was guest of honour and speeches on the night centred on the history and contemporary roles of the five forming Corps. The event also proved to be an excellent send off for Lt Col Ben Adams RLC on his departure from the Army after 18 years’ service. Special thanks must go to Sgt Dervan Butler for organising

8 Lt Col Ben Adams RLC presents Gp Capt Mike Blackburn RAF (Stn Comd RAF Akrotiri) with a waggoner’s wheel from the RLC

the event, the PMC WO1 Iain Martin, Sgt Tony Legg for the outstanding cake and Maj Chris Ralling for the waggon wheel.

THE 25TH RLC INDIVIDUAL AND INTER UNIT SQUASH CHAMPIONSHIPS 30 Oct-1 Nov 18 Winchester Racquets and Fitness For entry details contact: WO2 Andy Black TEL: 94731 – 2065 EMAIL: andrewblack921@mod.gov.uk

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THE SUSTAINER | NEWS

Bell ringing The European Sports Charter defines a sport as a "physical activity" which improves "physical fitness and mental well-being, and forms social relationships". Bell ringing firmly meets these criteria, but due to the risk of jeopardising relationships with the church bodies, the bell ringing council has chosen not to apply for 'sports' status. Nonetheless, the link is close enough to attempt to include ringing in the sports edition of The Sustainer!

Every Nov, the Remembrance service for 95 Supply Sqn (9 Regt RLC) is held on camp rather than in a church. Last year, keen to make the event more traditional, the then OC (and Army Ringing Master) taught a group of soldiers on a 'mini-ring' containing bells about 100th the size of standard bells.This enabled an appropriate start and finish to the service, while also creating the only ever regimental bell ringing band - something that is never likely to be repeated.

Facts about ringing: Known as

campanology, but only non-ringers use this term; it is more complex than it appears, taking about a year to become proficient in handling a fullsize bell and a further few years to learn 'method ringing' where the order of the bells is jumbled up in an orderly manner. Ringers need stamina (a 'peal' involves around 3hrs of non-stop ringing), immense powers of concentration and a sharp

OP TANGHAM

8 Cpl Ndongong receiving stock into the ES warehouse in Mogadishu)

NETWORK BRIEFS Felix Health “Felix Health” is a website providing support to serving and former ATOs and ATs with health issues such as PTSD and other conditions.

It was set up because of a concern about the possibility of a relatively high prevalence of PTSD amongst

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8 Bell Ringing at 9 Regt RLC (l to r: Maj Nicola Roberts, Pte Paul Warner, LCpl Jeet Raskoti, LCpl Dammar Thapa, Pte Gareth Thomas, Cpl Shawn Howell)

memory. An aptitude for Maths is advantageous. The cognitive workout staves off dementia (anecdotal evidence only, but the mental fitness of elderly ringers speaks volumes).

Fancy a go?

RLC junior NCOs and officers are taking on highly responsible roles in Somalia in support of Op TANGHAM. British Forces are deployed in support of the UK Government’s outcome of improved security in the country, with RLC officers and soldiers contributing to over twenty per cent of the deployed force.

Embedded within the UN Field Mission,The RLC is deployed within the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS).They are using their expertise to directly improve the UN’s ability to support the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) by

delivering bespoke logistic training directly to AMISOM soldiers. This includes RLC drivers instructing on fleet management and basic vehicle maintenance, and RLC suppliers training AMISOM soldiers in supply forecasting and the management of stores. These roles afford considerable responsibility at the lowest level, with RLC JNCOs running multi-million pound warehouses and junior officers managing the main logistic base with over 2,500 ISO containers.

Working in Somalia is not without its challenges; recent flooding has been the worst in 50 years.

It is nonetheless an extremely rewarding tour, where the RLC is making a real difference.

the ATO community, serving and retired. The website provides support to those who might wish to discuss such concerns with a knowledgeable former colleague, and gathers data, voluntarily and anonymously, on health-related matters in the community.

This helps to form a clear picture of the scale of the issues, and to raise awareness. The website is at www.felix-health.net The password for former ATs and ATOs only is “fetchf****” Or email info@felix-health.net to request access.

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER In May 2018,The RLC Sailing Association held a naming ceremony at Seaview Yacht Club on the Isle of Wight to name its brand new 40’ Elan Impression cruising yacht. ‘Spirit of St George II’ was named by Major General Sir Martin White KCVO CB CBE JP, HM Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight.The yacht was also blessed by Revd Alison Morley, Priest-in-Charge of St Helens, Seaview.

‘Spirit of St George II’ (SOSG II) has been purchased for the whole RLC family and is available for both serving and retired members of any rank to charter.With room for eight to live in comfort, she offers an affordable way for our soldiers and officers to go sailing with families and friends in a way that is unachievable using publicly funded boats. We are conscious that very many members of the Corps have little or no sailing experience, so for those who would like to charter her but don’t have the necessary qualifications, our Corps Bosun is a qualified skipper who can accompany any groups. SOSG II is based at 17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC in Marchwood, offering convenient access to some of the UK’s best sailing. We are

RLC SAILING 2018 has brought exciting changes to The RLC Sailing Association. Racing is as important as social sailing. The Corps remains successful in both individual and team competitions.

RLC sailors and riders have competed at the highest levels in all disciplines and as far afield as Brazil, Italy and Cyprus.

In offshore racing, we have won the Dolphin Trophy as the overall winners of the Army Offshore Regatta (AOR) twice. We were beaten by the Royal Engineers this year but placed second in both inshore and offshore series.

Elsewhere, the posting system has conspired against us and our key windsurfing and kitesurfing personalities are overseas. Despite this however, our windsurfing team has continued to thrive and has been working on developing talent so that the Corps is well placed in the longer term.WO2 Si McCulloch (DCLPA)

Spirit of St George II

however, conscious that not everyone wants to sail in the Solent and are developing a plan to base her in the Algarve for the summer of 2019. This will provide a fantastic opportunity

for unit adventure training or family holidays in the sun.

To find out more about SOSG II, and how to charter her, please visit www.rlcsailingassociation.com/about2

runs the Corps Windsurfing team and is responsible for Army Windsurfing training.

Kitesurfing is still a developing Army sport and is rapidly becoming the ‘go-to’ watersport for adrenalin junkies. Its combination of fast racing and exciting jumps and tricks is very appealing to the younger generation.

LCpl Jess Hunter has been selected to represent the Army and it is expected that others will follow.

Dinghy sailing in defence has been losing way for a number of years. RLC

activity had been reduced to a handful of individuals, but there has been a resurgence of late. The annual Seaview Regatta, which has always been a great occasion and a major Corps event, has been fully subscribed for the last two years and benefits both from longstanding sponsorship from Fastrax Logistics Ltd and also from the regular attendance of the Lord Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight (Maj Gen (Retd) Sir Martin White (late RCT/RLC. Elsewhere in the dinghy discipline, 1 Regiment RLC has taken advantage of its local facilities at Bicester Lake and is developing core skills across the Regt.

Whilst living in exciting and dynamic times, the Association requires new blood to inherit and strengthen the achievements of the current racing talent and supporting organisation. We have great social media outlets using Facebook (RLC Sailing). Please follow us if you fancy trying any of our sailing opportunities.

8 Secretary: Lt Col P King

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11

THE SUSTAINER | CONDUCTORS’ PARCHMENTS

Credit: Corporal Ben Beale/MoD Crown

RLC appoints three new conductors

PARCHMENT CEREMONY FACTS The first Conductor Parchment Ceremony took place at Deepcut in the Headquarters Sergeants’ Mess on 1 Jun 2001.

The appointments of conductor and sub-conductor have a long and interesting historical background in the British Army.

Perhaps the earliest recorded mention of conductors is in a Statute of Westminster of 1327 where Edward III enacted that wages of conductors (conveyors) of soldiers from the Shires to the place of Assembly would no longer be a charge upon the Shire.

As long ago as the Siege of Boulogne in 1544, there were conductors of ordnance. There were also conductors in the train of artillery assembled in 1618.

Today the proud heritage has been carried forward into The RLC. The position of the conductor is enshrined in Queen’s Regulations and endows those appointed with seniority within the Army and in their trade profession.

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Three new conductors have been appointed at The RLC’s prestigious annual parchment ceremony held at RHQ The RLC in Deepcut.

Lt Gen Sir M W Poffley KCB OBE presented parchments to logistic specialist supply Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1) Daniel Winfield, petroleum operator WO1 Paul Franks and ammunition technician WO1 Andrew Bannister.

The appointment of conductor is awarded to the most senior soldier within each trade.With just nine conductors in the British Army, this prestigious award gives those appointed seniority within their trade profession.

“The one thing which unites all is their total commitment to do what is right for the good and benefit of soldiers and uphold military standards and values,” said WO1 Conductor R M Ladell, senior conductor and head of the army movement control trade.

WO1 Bannister is posted in his current role at HQ 29 EOD & Search Group in Aldershot. He has served in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan. Having gained valuable experience since joining the Army in

1997,WO1 Bannister has now been made head of The RLC ammunition technician trade.

WO1 Winfield joined the Army in 1998 and currently serves in Army Headquarters as the command ordnance warrant officer. He has now been selected to be the head of The RLC logistic specialist (supply) trade.

WO1 Franks currently serves in Joint Force Command, Defence Strategic Fuels Authority. Having been deployed in Bosnia, Kosovo, Northern Ireland and Iraq he has gained a great deal of experience in his trade and has been appointed the head of The RLC petroleum operator trade.

During the ceremony, the Conductors’ Coin, which is awarded to the worthiest candidates within The RLC below the rank of WO1, was also presented to eight soldiers.

The recipients of the Coin were driver Staff Sergeant Nailatikau, ammunition technician Sergeant Charmichael, tank transporter Corporal Firkins, army photographer Corporal Maher, logistic specialist supply Lance Corporal Krantree, marine engineer LCpl Keogh, postal and courier operator Lance Corporal Martin and chef Private Lloyd.

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ARMY SPORT | THE SUSTAINER

Army Sports Control Board While The RLC excels at sport it’s worth looking at the bigger armywide picture. The Army Sports Control Board (ASCB) manages army sport under the guidance of Major General (Retd) Shaun Burley. It is responsible for the delivery of army-wide sports policy, assurance and governance and 2018 is its centenary year.

It reports to the Executive Committee of the Army Board through the Commander Personnel and Support Command. The ASCB Charitable Fund is an independent Charity (No 1123854) which is responsible for the custody of ASCB non-public assets and the generation of non-public income for the wellbeing and development of sport in the Army.

The ASCB formed on 18 Nov 1918, a week after the end of WW1, the General Staff seeing the value of sport as respite for fighting troops. Soldiers did play in their free time and inter-company football and boxing had a positive impact on morale, but in 1918 there was no organised army sport. In Feb 1948, the Reserve Army Sports Board was formed. Affiliated to the ASCB, on 1 Apr 2011 they merged.

The Chief of the General Staff recognises the important role that sport plays. In 2014 he said: ¨I place a huge premium on sport in the Army. My starting point is that it helps our army win in battle. It plays a vital role in welfare, morale, operational effectiveness and recovery. Sport produces soldiers who build and lead teams by habit and reflex. It generates and maintains cohesion.

It nurtures pride and that essential corollary – humility. It encourages leaders to think clearly, confidently and positively when under pressure. And fundamentally it feeds a winning culture and ethos that inspire hunger for success on the battlefield.”

General Burley ran Army Rugby for four years and is developing sport within the Army and promoting the ASCB. Its function,

role and outputs aren’t well known or understood. He wants to encourage CO’s to see sport as part of the Army’s offer and that sport should have duty status and be non-discretionary. The ASCB wants to see increased participation in sports at all levels for both regulars and the reserve. Last year participation in army sport increased by 14% at unit level, which is important for all the benefits it brings. Talent can also be identified and nurtured to allow soldiers to reach their potential and compete at the highest level. There are currently 200 soldiers competing at national and international level. The Army Elite Sport Programme (AESP) exists to manage them. The ASCB is in partnership with the English Institute of Sport and their Talented Athlete Sponsorship Scheme, which feeds GB Sport. 47 soldiers are

currently part of the national scheme. They have access to national level coaches, nutritionists and physiotherapists to help them be better athletes. These national level athletes are ambassadors for the Army and their units, as demonstrated by Captain Jen Keyho in the Para Winter Olympics and rower Major Heather Stanning.

There are potentially four soldiers who could represent GB at the Tokyo Olympics.

So far £45m has been raised for sport in the Army. £20m has been given in cash prizes and £23m in grants to support sporting activities including overseas tours. The Trustees have a large budget and the freedom to allocate it unfettered. Much of the money comes from the Sports Lottery, a weekly draw with £30k prize fund.

Members of the lottery are entitled to apply for a sports grant. Grants are given to individuals, teams and Corps with applications reviewed monthly. 112,000 tickets are sold per week at a cost of 75p. Proceeds go to support the operating costs of the 45 sports the ASCB supports.

2014 saw the ASCB reinvigorating reserve sport and reservists now have a dedicated secretary Maj Sandy Roberts. The ASCB would like to encourage more reservists to join the sports lottery.

8 You can find more information about the ASCB and about army sport and fixtures through its website, www.armysportcontrolboard.com and Facebook and Twitter feeds.

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13

THE SUSTAINER | MILITARY SECRETARY

Army Personnel Centre | CSS | RLC Soldiers’ and Officers’ Wings

SO1 Soldiers’ Wing: Lt Col L Stewart SO1 Officers’ Wing: Lt Col M Collins

MS Mission: “Manage the careers of officers and soldiers in accordance with the needs of the Army in Defence in order to sustain the delivery of the required number of capable and well-motivated individuals.”

Soldiers’ matters Promotion boards The Cpl – Sgt promotion board was conducted between 14 - 18 May 18 to select soldiers for promotion in the promotion year 2 Oct 18 to 30 Sep 19.

There were 705 soldiers who were eligible to go to the board and 665 were assessed as being above the quality line; 305 were selected for promotion. This represents a 43.2% chance of promotion across all trades.

The LCpl – Cpl promotion board was conducted between 20 – 22 Jun and 26 – 28 Jun 18 to select soldiers for promotion in the promotion year 2 Oct 18 – 30 Sep 19. There were 748 soldiers who were eligible to go to the board and 678 were assessed as being above the quality line; 394 were selected for promotion. This represents a 52.7% chance of promotion across all trades.

Amendments to JSP 757 Appraisal Reporting Policy All Soldiers should be aware of the following amendments to JSP 757.

Part 1, Chapter 2, Annex A relates to the Compulsory Objectives and the following has been added; Whilst compulsory objectives must be included in all ARs: ROs and Subjects are permitted to work together to tailor them to reflect the 14

circumstances of the subject’s role or development needs and to pursue SMART principles in outlining how the subject is going to deliver against it. The original intent of the objective must, nonetheless, remain overt.

Amendments may be carried out by the subject by utilising the objective sub-field or amending the objective itself, with guidance from the 1RO. The 2RO should ensure that any such modification remains in line with the original intent.

JSP 757, Pt 1, Ch 6, Para 2 applies when assessing potential and the following addition applies; In assessing the subject’s potential, individuals performing below the standard expected (i.e. below a ‘B’ grade) in terms of either Leadership, Communication and Influence, or Problem Solving and Decision Making within OJAR16 (Leadership, Management or Professional Effectiveness in the legacy/SJAR attributes) should not normally expect to receive a positive recommendation for one rank up.

The complete list of amendments to JSP 757 can be found by accessing the MS Web, Latest Updates.

Unit visits RLC Soldiers Wing was on the road to conduct unit visits 12-14 June. This included the delivery of the APC brief, MS workshops and 74 Formal Career Reviews.With almost a completely new team out on the road for the first time, the visits went well, thanks in main to the efforts of the RCMO 29 Regt Capt Goodchild, RCMO 9 Regt Capt Butterworth and WO1 Bottrell, 5 Bn REME in Tidworth, who looked after us throughout.

Arrivals and departures There have been a number of staff changes at RLC Soldiers since the last publication, they are as follows: Arrivals • Lt Col Louise Stewart RLC – SO1 RLC Soldier Wing • Maj Claire Brown RLC – SO2 RLC Soldier Wing.

Departures • Lt Col Jonathan Williams – SO1 RLC Soldier Wing – Assigned as CO Kineton.

• Maj Damon Rusk RLC – SO2 RLC Soldier Wing – Assigned as OC 110 Sqn, 25 Regt RLC.

Officers’ matters Focus on Team LE This has been another frenetic period for Team LE. The key activity being the Late Entry Officers Career Assessment Board (LEOCAB) ran by the RHQ The RLC in Deepcut. This year witnessed an all-time high with 80 candidates (a number from other cap badges) applying for a Late Entry commission in The RLC. The standard was simply exceptional and all the candidates should be congratulated for their high levels of preparation. Unfortunately, due to quotas not all will be successful.

8 The Corps Col and Col Clouston interviewing a LEOCAB 18 candidate

From a MS perspective ICSC(L) – A reminder that any potential ICSC(L) Early candidates require a 3RO. The trigger being a 1RO and 2RO HIGH recommendation for staff training ICSC(L). ICSC(L) candidates without a 3RO will not go to the board.

Warning Order – From next year all LE commission conversions; SSC(LE) – IRC(LE) and IRC(LE) – RegC(LE) will be under the Board and Offer criteria.

In summary individuals, will no longer be required to apply for conversion.

All eligible candidates will be run to the board and if successful they will be offered a conversion. More to follow from SO1(LE).

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MILITARY SECRETARY | THE SUSTAINER

On a lighter note The Team LE Kenya detachment celebrated The RLC Open Day with their own mini version of the Deepcut model including their very own ‘party in the park’

Grade 2 Number 5 Bd The results of the Jul 18 No5 Gr2 Bd were published on MS Web on 5 Jul 18. Selections were made in accordance with TLB priorities and the breakdown of results is below:

Routine E1 appointments

17 selected (51% of appointments filled)

E1 OCE appointments

4 selected (100% of appointments filled)

Routine E2 appointments

10 RLC Majs selected (34% of all E2 appointments (188) filled)

E2 OCE appointments

4 RLC Majs selected (52% of all E2 OCE appointments (22) filled)

Key Dates

Event

5 Sep

RLC Reserve ICB and SCB Board

6 – 7 Sep

RLC Regular ICB and SCB Board

4 Oct

RLC ICB and SCB Board Results Published

8-11 Oct 18

Number 5 Grade 2 Winter Board

18 Oct 18

Late Entry Commission Results Published

25 Oct 18

Number 5 Grade 2 Winter Board Results Published

1 Nov 18

DE&LE Conversion of Commission Results Published

12-16 Nov 18

Late Entry and Army Reserve Beige List 2019

13 Nov 18

RLC Pre-Select Pink List Board

19-23 Nov 18

Direct Entry Beige List 2019

Dec 18

Beige List Results Published

8 Maj Honeyman, Lt Col Fletcher, Maj Hodgson, Maj Crane

Board attendance Any RLC officers (OF1-OF3) wishing to observe or participate in an RLC Bd should be familiar with ABN 161/15 (Mandatory Pre-Bd Training) and contact SO2 RLC Soldiers’ Boarding on 94561 3472 or speak to their career manager.

Arrivals • Maj Gillian Cooke RLC – SO2B RLC Officer Branch - Career Manager for Senior Majors.

• Maj Helen Willis RLC – SO2C RLC Officer Branch – Career Manager for Captains.

• Maj Simon Bratcher RLC – SO2B RLC Officer Branch - Career Manager for Junior Majors.

• Mrs Jessie (Shona) Carstairs – E1 Senior Majors Departures • Maj Louise Stewart RLC – SO2B RLC Officer Branch - Career Manager for Senior Majors who has moved on promotion to SO1 RLC Soldiers.

• Maj Simon Barker RLC – SO2C RLC Officer Branch – Career Manager for Captains who has moved to OC 23 Sqn, 1 Regt RLC.

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THE SUSTAINER | HEADS OF TRADE

A VIEW FROM UNDER THE HEADSET Head of Trade – Driver Communications Specialist WO1 (SSM) G D Crawford

A VIEW FROM BEHIND THE MISE EN PLACE Head of Trade – RLC Chef WO1 Simon Griffiths

Fellow Communications Specialists, first, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you within our outstanding trade for the hard work and dedication you continue to show.

As a trade we have had our fair share of upheaval over the past few years. But, if there is one thing that sets us apart as a trade it is adapting to change, seizing new opportunities and innovating when necessary; it is in our DNA. Be it in regular or reserve units, home or abroad, our chefs are working hard to deliver an effective and intimate service to the very people we share our daily lives with.

Since the demise of DMR it is true that our daily routine has changed somewhat with the rollout of Catering, Retail and Leisure (CRL), but the importance of our work in the home base environment hasn’t. Our chefs are just as important in barracks as they are when deployed.

Manning As with many other trades across the Corps, we still have ongoing challenges with recruiting and retention.

At present, as a trade we have a constant stream of retrades, this is down to Comms Specs advertising the trade well. If you have any fresh ideas for recruiting and retention, I would like to hear them. Please feel free to email me directly at glen.crawford565@mod.gov.uk, regardless of rank.

Training and CPD As a result of the review of vocational training delivered across the trade, DST Leconfield will now be delivering two new trade courses as of Apr 2019. Firstly, the implementation of the Class 2 Communications Specialist course at two weeks long in duration replacing the old Record of Achievement (RoA), secondly being the addition of the new Regimental Signals Warrant Officer (RSWO) course.

As of Apr 18, the Class 3 and 1 courses delivered by DST Leconfield have now changed, the major change in course content is the introduction of the field phase incorporating operating in a CBRN environment.

Accreditation has continued evolving for the trade with the full backing of the Corps. As at time of writing this article the change is in place for the Class 3 soldiers to now be enrolled in driver NVQ and for the Class 1 soldiers to be enrolled on the new Radio Network Technician Apprenticeship. Further details to follow.

One of the many other elements of CPD available has been the highly successful PG Cert in wireless communications delivered by Ubi-tech through the University of Wolverhampton. I would like to express my congratulations to the following whom graduated from Wolverhampton University in Mar, WO2 McAllister, WO2 Gray, WO2 Steenkiste, SSgt Pollitt and SSgt Foy. Look forward In future articles, I will endeavour to keep you all abreast of current issues and developments within the trade.

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Moving forward The future of facility management is important to us and a lot of work is being undertaken in the background to ensure we maximise the opportunities as they arise in this area.

Regional Infrastructure Cells, five SSgt’s embedded with regional DIO teams and Project HESTIA are just a handful of the positive steps forward. Our own CPD team and FSW are also working hard to introduce civilian qualifications to enhance this area.

Combined, this will not only help to develop and prepare our people for future employment when leaving the service but it also builds on the support we offer our units on the ground.

The success of CRL at units, and the use of our chefs within it, is very much down to catering line managers.

In most cases CRL has improved the work life balance of our people when they are not deployed.

Future challenges Managing our operational outputs is the biggest challenge we currently face.

We need to adopt a more collaborative way of working and supporting each other between units and formations. Above all we need to ensure that the workload is spread across the whole trade to reduce the burden on our chefs.

Look forward The future of the trade is a bright and positive one in which each and every member of the trade has a part to play. Embrace the opportunities as they present themselves and continue to represent your trade and Corps with pride. You are after all RLC chefs.

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HEADS OF TRADE | THE SUSTAINER

A VIEW FROM BEHIND THE ORDNANCE Head of Trade – Ammunition Technicians (AT) WO1(Cdr) AP Bannister

A VIEW FROM BEHIND THE SAIL Head of Trade – Marine Engineer WO1 (SSM) Karl Arnott

Ammunition Technicians (ATs) and Ammunition Technical Officers (ATOs) in the UK and around the globe: In this, my first trade update for The Sustainer, the biggest challenge has been selecting which topics to cover.

It is a good time to be an AT. The overall trade manning liability has increased with A2020R; Ammunition Troops have been created in all The RLC Regiments that support the Joint Expeditionary Force and Close Support Ammunition Troops have been established within 11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search (EOD&S) Regiment RLC to support the Armoured Infantry and Strike Brigades.

The Army Marine Engineer trade can trace its roots back to the Inland Water Transport Regiments of the Royal Engineers which eventually became part of the Royal Corps of Transport and ultimately The Royal Logistic Corps.

Working ‘hand in glove’ with the Mariner trade, marine engineers help to provide Army Maritime Capability to Defence and as such are deployed worldwide in support of a wide array of tasks including: Hurricane and disaster relief in the Caribbean, amphibious beach operations with 3 Commando Brigade and ship to shore fuel sustainment, in addition to this Marine Engineers are embedded within each of the UKSF amphibious cells and have recently deployed a short term training team to Nigeria.

Generating numbers We are now working hard to generate the numbers to fill these new jobs from recruiting and transfers into the trade. The numbers of Airborne and Commando qualified ATs in 33 Engr Regt (EOD&S) continues to rise and for the first time, we have Phase 1 instructors delivering training at Pirbright and Harrogate.

We are the Army’s Professional Explosives Engineers and trade membership of the Institute of Explosives Engineers has been steadily increasing over recent years. The next milestone after joining the institute is professional registration, leading to recognition as an Engineering Technician (Eng Tech), an Incorporated Engineer (IEng), or a Chartered Engineer (CEng), depending on experience and qualification levels.

An Engineering Professional Recognition Award has been proposed as a financial incentive for Army personnel achieving this recognition. Details are still to be published on who will receive the award and at what level of registration, so keep an eye out for the DIN. Recognition The Queen’s Birthday Honours List recognised several members of the trade, with three Meritorious Service Medals and six commendations being awarded.

Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM) workshops run by the ATs and ATOs of Kineton Station are becoming an ever-popular method of community engagement, sometimes on a national scale, even getting a mention on a Chris Evans’ Breakfast Show phone-in!

As ever, I am always happy to receive feedback from across the AT/ATO community at any level. If you have any ideas or comments for the good and benefit of the trade, please get in touch.

Manning As a trade of circa 60 personnel, the marine engineer Career Employment Group (CEG) remains one of the smallest within the Corps and current manning levels are stable, there has been a recent influx of re-trades who have been attracted by the lure of the open sea, the potential to work in a niche environment and the opportunity to put down roots in what is a very family orientated regiment.

Transferring to become a Marine Engineer has become so popular that the trade does not currently appear on the Official Army Vacancies List (OAVL).

Training Class 3 training, formerly delivered at the Defence School of Marine Engineering (DSMarE), has successfully moved to the Defence School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (DSEME) with Marine Engineer specific training being delivered on the vessels at 17 Regiment.

Class 3/2 upgrade remains in the form of a Record of Achievement. The Class 1 course in its current guise is still being delivered at DSMarE and will do so for the near future, the structure and content of the new course is currently under review, more to follow on this.

Look forward Work is ongoing to develop how marine engineers are trained and accredited and how our business is assured, I will endeavour to keep you updated as we progress. It is my plan to hold a trade seminar after the summer break which will be a good opportunity to pass on any updates and to discuss our CEG and what the future may hold. Sail Army!

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS

Defence School of Logistics

By DSL Commandant Colonel John Atkins

In the lead-up to Christmas 2018, some of the courses delivered by the Deepcut-based Supply Trg Wing will move to the new college building in Worthy Down (WD). These will be: Postal and Courier, Tailoring and Equipment Repair courses.

Planning has also continued to transfer Defence Petroleum Trg Sqn courses from West Moors to WD in the spring of 2019. In the meantime, two of our Sqns have completed Adventure Training (AT) expeditions at The RLC Lodge in Low Gillerthwaite, and the Troop Commanders Course (TCC) and Log Specialist Trg Wing have visited Belgium on battlefield studies.

Course updates regarding blended learning and use of the defence learning environment Students and the Chain of Command must be aware that to rationalise some of our courses and make the lengths more suitable for delivery to the Field Army, it has become increasingly common to feature “Blended Learning”. This 18

“Blended Learning” has not just been adopted during the teaching phase, but is a critical element of pre-learning. This pre-learning is not an option and failure to reach the required standards before the start of the respective course could result in the student being Returned to Unit (RTU’d).

There have been several instances recently where students have been arriving on courses and subsequently failing entry examinations due to poor preparation or a genuine lack of knowledge of the opportunities available on the Defence Learning Environment (DLE). The main courses affected have been those delivered by the Supply Training Wing and courses held at Marchwood. Re-teaching students to bring them up to the required start standard has placed an unsustainable strain on limited instructor numbers and therefore the burden of responsibility must be taken by the student and their parent unit.

A considerable amount of work

8 LSTW and other DSL staff on Battlefield study in the Hurtgen Forest

has been done and continues to be developed by the instructors within the various schools and wings on the DLE which assists students not only prior to arrival, but also assists with reinforcing lessons taught during the program and giving examples of test exercises.

Students are encouraged to engage with the relevant school/wing at the earliest opportunity if problems exist with regards to the ability to conduct pre-training or indeed if there is any doubt with the content. Likewise, line managers are requested to ensure students attending the courses are fully prepared and have evidence of completed pre-training.

Welfare improvements in West Moors Back in West Moors, DPTS opened part of a new station welfare facility in Jun. Christened as 'The Pittstop', it will provide families and trainees a recreational centre to socialise. The

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TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER £46,500 LIBOR grant DPTS successfully secured has created a social area adjacent to a new children's indoor soft play area and games console room. Phase 2, with external assistance from the Royal Engineers, will create a kitchen, games rooms, Junior Ranks Club and cinema before Christmas 2018.

73 Training Squadron (Marchwood) AT expedition – OC: Maj Ed Rosevink Members of 73 Sqn, alongside instructors from the Def Movements Trg Sqn, travelled to Low Gillerthwaite for a week of AT. Led by Cpl Ian Milham, the hill walkers navigated in limited visibility as clouds rolled in on the early ascents. After brief showers on the first peaks, the teams were rewarded with fantastic views before descending to local villages for lunch, then another ascent before returning to the lodge. Sgt Tom Ellery and Cpl Chris Everly led mountain biking in Whinlatter Forest where groups were challenged on increasingly difficult routes. The dry trails enabled faster riding, but the troops picked up basic skills quickly: a few discovered a new passion for mountain biking.

Many were pushed out of their comfort zone while ‘gorge walking’, which involved scrambling, climbing and swimming a Ghyll.

Jumping into sections of the river and deep pools from ledges and rock faces requires nerve but builds confidence and character. A visit to the Workington lifeboat station was less demanding, but provided an opportunity for professional development, comparing the capabilities of the Shannon class RNLI boats with the platforms operated by the Mariners. The Sqn BBQ allowed us to bid farewell to LCpl Mark Campbell who leaves the Sqn to undertake his Marine Engineer Class 1 course and welcome LCpl Jay Northall to the VSS dept.

Gillerthwaite. The six-day package covered a mix of mountaineering and mountain biking. All levels of ability in the Sqn were certainly stretched out of their comfort zones and clocked up more useful log book days for future instructional courses. Sgt Craig Melrose especially seemed to enjoy Capt Karl Pitt’s leg down the scree slopes of Great Gable! LCpl Nikki Christie in comparison, as lead mountaineering instructor, chose more sedate routes for the legs around the Lakes.

Capt Jamie Brooks and Lt Laura Brooks led a series of hard days mountain biking. Sgt Andy Clements, one of the more experienced riders, set the bar high by blasting along the single-track trails amongst truly wonderful scenery.

Accommodation in the lodge and the lack of Wi-Fi and phone signal, was strangely refreshing and brought the Sqn closer together in front of the large open fire after each day's hard training. Karl Pitt’s self-catering cooking was also exceptional, as was the smooth administration taken care of by WO2 Carl Lamb.

Command Wing – Chief Instructor, Lt Col Rob Wagstaff TCC 77 visited Belgium for a Battlefield Study in Jul. Supported by academic Andy Robertshaw, the aim was to expand our understanding of logistics by studying the campaign around Passchendaele in 1917.

The base for the troopies was Talbot House (‘Toc H’) in the town of Poperinge: established in 1915 as an ‘all-ranks club’: for thousands of soldiers it was a place of refuge and relative comfort. Poperinge was also an important railhead where huge volumes of stores were moved onwards to the front.

The scale of the losses here is overtly apparent. Amongst the countless headstones there is no shortage of soldiers from the Army Service Corps and Army Ordnance Corps. Their work was only made harder by the heavy rain with which Passchendaele has become associated: The area was turned in to an expanse of mud and water-filled craters.

Although they did not serve in the trenches it is just as important to remember those that sustained the battlefields.

100 years on, the Ypres Salient has returned to its original state.

Except for a few unaltered sites and the cemeteries, it is hard to see the effects of the war and comprehend the scale of the destruction. However, at locations such as Hill 60 near Ypres, you can still see how high explosives have altered the landscape. As serving soldiers it is essential that we continue to visit these locations, remember those who served here and, most importantly, to benefit from their experiences.

8 Mountain biking in Whinlatter Forest Park, led by Sgt Ellery (pictured left) and Cpl Everly

Defence Petroleum Training Squadron (DPTS - West Moors) – OC: Maj Neil Swift Highlights for DPTS this quarter included deploying on a level 2 AT package. Organised by Sgt Brad Wootton, it was also based at Low www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

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THE SUSTAINER | THE RLC SPORTS AWARDS

The RLC25 Sports Awards 2018 In celebration of RLC 25, the annual Royal Logistic Corps Sports Awards were held in the form of a Sports Awards Dinner Night in the HQ Officers’ Mess on the 4 Jul 18 in the presence of The Master General of Logistics, Lieutenant General Sir M W Poffley KCB OBE. This was the 21st celebration of The RLC Sports Awards where the Corps continues to perform at the highest level with undiminished success across the whole spectrum of Army Sport.

The Awards Ceremony was presented by the Col RLC with at least 160 guests in attendance, including esteemed sponsors, worthy nominees and numerous sportsmen and sportswomen supporting their teams and individuals.

On the celebrity front, for the second successive year, the special guest was former England Rugby Fly-Half Andy Goode who delivered some inspirational words at

the close of the ceremony. The event, heralded as the best to date, provided an ideal opportunity to celebrate in style the remarkable individual and team sporting achievements of the Royal Logistic Corps.

It was further enhanced with the RLC Band and the Corps of Drums, which provided the musical entertainment, alongside a faultless service from the Catering Team and Mess Staff.

Sports Team of the Year 1st RLC Men’s Rugby Union 2nd RLC Enduro 3rd RLC Triathlon

Sports Team of the Year: RLC Men’s Rugby Union

Sports Coach/Administrator of the Year 1st Maj Lee Rickard 17 P & M Regt RLC Triathlon 2nd Sgt Kyle Holder 27 Regt RLC Boxing 3rd Capt Andy Evans 9 Regt RLC Rugby Union Young Sportswoman of the Year 1st LCpl Abi Childs 9 Regt RLC Young Sportsman of the Year 1st Pte Miles Cawood

1 Regt RLC

2nd LCpl Jack Webb 3rd Pte Adrea Vasuitoga

9 Regt RLC 25 Regt RLC

Sportswoman of the Year 1st LCpl Fern Davies 2nd Maj Rebecca Darke

9 Regt RLC DEMS Trg Regt

Enduro

Biathlon Nordic Skiing Cycling Rugby Union

Sports Coach: Maj Lee Rickard, 17 P&M Regt RLC, Triathlon

Netball Equestrian Sports

Sportsman of the Year 1st SSgt Kalen Hicks 9 Regt RLC 2nd LCpl Gary Clark 39 Engr Regt 3rd Cpl Shaine Ryland-Gasher RHQ The RLC

Enduro Hockey Fencing

RLC Special Award Capt Liam Harkin Sgt Stuart Jones Capt Sean Twine SSgt Jo Hursey

27 Regt RLC 17 P & M Regt RLC 1 Regt RLC 9 Regt RLC

Boxing Angling Nordic Skiing Invictus Games

Lifetime Achievement WO1 Ellis Langford Maj Alli Shields WO2 Kevin Gibson

HQ South West Football 17 P & M Regt RLC Basketball 101 Regt RA Squash

Hemming Belt Cpl Alanna Nihell

27 Regt RLC

Young Sportswoman of the Year: LCpl Abi Childs, 9 Regt RLC, Enduro

Boxing

Pioneer Spirit Award 9 Regt RLC Sports Personality of the Year Maj Bruce Ekman 1 Regt RLC

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Invictus Games

Young Sportsman of the Year: Pte Miles Cawood, 1 Regt RLC, Biathlon Nordic Skiing

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THE RLC SPORTS AWARDS | THE SUSTAINER

Sportswoman of the Year: LCpl Fern Davies, 9 Regt RLC , Netball

Lifetime Achievement Award: Maj Ali Shields, 17 P&M Regt RLC, Basketball

Sportsman of the Year: SSgt Kalem Hicks, 9 Regt RLC, Enduro Lifetime Achievement Award: WO2 Kevin Gibson, 101 Regt RA, Squash

The Spirit of the Pioneer Award: 9 Regt RLC Special Awards: Capt Liam Harkin, 27 Regt RLC, Boxing

Hemming Belt: Cpl Alanna Nihell, 27 Regt RLC, Boxing Special Awards: Capt Sean Twine, 1 Regt RLC, Nordic Skiing

Special Awards: SSgt Jo Hursey, 9 Regt RLC, Invictus Games

Sports Personality of the Year: Maj Bruce Ekman, 1 Regt RLC, Invictus Games

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THE SUSTAINER | TOP SPORTING ACHIEVERS

The RLC Olympic hopefuls The Royal Logistic Corps has two athletes serving within regular units, who currently have their sights on medalling at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Profiles by Peter Shakespeare At this year’s Commonwealth Games, and as reported on pages 27 and 28, LCpl Fern Davies of 9 Regiment RLC represented Wales in the team sport of netball.There are two more junior NCOs in the Corps who compete at the elite level. Boxer, Cpl Alanna Nihell and rower, Cpl Steve Cox walk out onto the world stage as individuals.

8 Cpl Steve Cox While Cpl Steve Cox is firmly of the belief that sport should not be the ‘be all and end all’, the supply specialist from 4 Regiment RLC has returned to his sport of rowing.

While living in his native Zimbabwe, Steve was competing at the top-level in the sport. But he was mindful that he needed and wanted a career. He decided to ship his oars and six years ago he moved to the UK to join the British Army as a supply specialist in The RLC. He was posted to the Commando Logistics Regiment. Three years ago, a call from the secretary of the Army Rowing Clubs Association, Maj Mike Schofield MBE, persuaded him to get back in a boat. Steve says:“Maj Schofield called me and said,‘I hear you can row a bit’. I got involved again and the bug returned.”

He initially represented the Army Rowing Club but was released to train and in 2017, representing his native

Zimbabwe, he made the D-Final at the World Rowing Championship in the 2000m single scull event, which placed him in the top 20 rowers in the world in this discipline. Regularly achieving elite times Steve was posted to 4 Regiment RLC at the beginning of Feb and went into full time training at the Henley-based Leander Club. His goal is to win a gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

His training is funded by an Olympic scholarship through the World Rowing Federation FISA. He explains: “Although I have lived and worked in the UK for over five years, I don’t currently have a British Passport.

Because Zimbabwe is still a developing nation there is no funding for sport, so I have been lucky enough to get the scholarship. I am also still paid by the Army and will return to duty once the major events season is over. The Army and my regiment have been very supportive.”

Steve’s times are fast enough to qualify for a place in Team GB. He continues:“Getting a place in Team GB would be fantastic, because it has a superb system for training athletes and is well funded. But I am from Zimbabwe and the honour of winning a medal for the country where I was born and brought up would be massive for me and for Zimbabwe. If you are in the British Olympic squad, you are pretty much expected to medal because the standard of rowing here is so high.”

Steve Cox is currently training with fellow countryman Peter Purceell-Gulpin in the double scull. Both men have been very close competitors in single sculls and want to be the first African crew to take a double to the Olympics.

If they cannot make the boat fast enough Steve will revert to the single scull, but he says currently they are recording world class times.

The six-day a week training regime is hard and involves three hours on the water each day, with a further two hours in the gym. The athletes row up to 250km a week.

His next competition is the 2018 World Championships in Bulgaria in Sept. Next year will be the crunch one, with Steve competing in three Wold Cup regattas, followed by the World Championships; a top 11 result is required for Olympic qualification.

The Army has produced one Olympic rowing champion, Maj Heather Stanning OBE. Cpl Steve Cox is well on his way to earning the opportunity to be the next.

8 Cpl Alanna Nihell 27 Regiment RLC can boast, not one, but two elite boxers among its ranks. Husband and wife team, Alanna and Chez Nihell.

LCpl Chez Nihell (31) boxes in the super heavyweight division.The former Army Boxing team captain has recently transferred to The RLC from 1PWRR and in Apr became the ABA Super Heavyweight Champion. Keeping it in the family, Cpl Alanna Nihell (32) took over from her husband as Army team captain.The first woman to do so, she also competes

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Photography by Lex Hulscher. Copyright Eindhoven Box Cup

TOP SPORTING ACHIEVERS | THE SUSTAINER

on the International stage. Alanna won bronze at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, representing Northern Ireland and made the quarter finals of the 2018 games, losing on points to England’s Paige Murney. Murney went on to win silver in the lightweight (57-60kg) category.

Alanna says she was unlucky:“The fight was very close. I was one of the favourites to win gold at 60kg, but in my quarter final the referee was very strict and I received public warnings in the first and second rounds and was the only boxer in the tournament to do so from any referee. It was disappointing but as I had boxed her five times before I knew in my own mind that I could have gone all the way. But it was my second time at the games and I was the team captain and had already medalled previously. I had the maturity and experience to accept it and in fact it has made me more hungry and stronger mentally.” Alanna adds that successive 27 Regiment RSMs and COs have been incredibly supportive and the Regiment sponsored her boxing boots for the Gold Coast Games, which she says are now a treasured possession.

Alanna is released as a full-time athlete, but returns to regimental duty periodically to attend courses ensuring she keeps her trade training up to date. She is funded through the Army Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) which managed by the Army Sports Control Board.

The scheme is funded by Sport England.

Having taken her seasonal summer break, Alanna has returned to full time training with the Ulster squad. Her first competition will be with her Army team at the

Eindhoven Box Cup. The event attracts world class boxers from across the globe.

Alanna started boxing at 12 and had her first International fight at 16.To date she has had 121 fights (96 wins) and 75 of her fights have been on the International stage. She joined The RLC at 22 and says that part of her motivation was knowing that the Army would support and fund her boxing.

“I owe the Army and my RLC Regiment a great deal and haven’t looked back since joining,”she says.“I feel very privileged to be the first Army woman boxer to compete internationally and the first to captain the Army team and now women’s boxing in the Army has really taken off. My achievements have inspired another talented female boxer, who I sparred with when she was a teenager. I encouraged Ebonie Jones (21) to join the Army. She is in the Army team and in Apr was crowned under 22 European Champion in the 54kg weight category. She has the potential to be the next Nicola Adams.”

Alanna still has her sights set on top-level prizes. In 2019, she will enter the English ABA championships and the All Ireland Olympic qualifier. She says if successful she will go all out to make the Olympic team. If not she says she will decide whether to carry on to the 2022 Commonwealth Games. But then she says, it will be time to hang up her gloves and to give something back to the Army and the sport as a coach.

8 The RLC would like to wish both athletes the very best of luck.

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THE SUSTAINER | COMMONWEALTH GAMES

The Commonwealth Games At 21, LCpl Fern Davies is in the tiny percentage of serving soldiers, who have had the honour of representing their county in the elite sporting arena. In Apr 2018, her greatest achievement to date began when she boarded the plane taking her to Australia, to represent Wales at the ‘Gold Coast’ Commonwealth Games. By Peter Shakespeare At 5’9” Fern is comparatively short for a netball player. She says that team Wales is renowned for being ‘short’. But thanks to her powerful build, speed and athleticism, she has developed into a top-level goal defence player. Fern started playing netball aged eight.

At 14, while playing at club level, she was spotted by a scout and was invited to trial for Wales. Initially unsuccessful she persevered and the following year she trialled at regional level and was selected through her county to join the Welsh national under 19 and under 21 netball squads. Passionate about her sport, her eyes were firmly fixed on making the senior team.

Fern joined the Army at 17. She was accepted into The RLC supply trade. Aware there was an abundance of sporting opportunities within The RLC and the Army, she was unsure whether she would be able to continue to pursue her International sporting ambitions. Fern made it known to her superiors at an early stage about her commitment to the 24

Welsh national team. She says:“I was directed towards the Army Netball Association. After speaking to them, they said they would be supportive and I was amazed just how much I was able to do. If I’d chosen another career or gone to university, there is no way I could have achieved what I have since joining The RLC. I know it sounds really cheesy and clichéd but I owe everything to the Corps.”

The Wales Netball team trains in South Wales.While still at school Fern regularly made the return journey from her home near Llandudno, sometimes returning home at 3am with a full school day ahead of her.

Following Phase-2 training as a supply specialist, Fern was posted to 9 Regiment RLC in Chippenham. She says it changed her life.“Being at 9 Regt, I am only an hour away from Cardiff. My CO has been absolutely incredible. I work in the SQMS department at 84 Medical Supply Squadron. It’s a really busy job and I take my Army career very seriously, so initially I was in danger of burning myself out trying to dedicate myself to it and my netball. The CO enabled

me to leave work on time to get to training, but also helped me with my work/life balance. Lt Col Zanchi, Captain Whitby,WO2 Oliver, Major Gray and Captain Gutzu and The RLC Netball Association have also been incredibly supportive,” she explains.

Fern’s first International cap came at 18, shortly after she completed phase two training. She continues:“I made my International debut at the Echo Arena in Liverpool. After that my profile lifted and a number of caps came thick and fast. I have played in three senior European Championships and five age group level Europeans. In 2015, I assistant coached the Army Netball Team on its Australian tour, which was a fantastic opportunity for me to step back and give something back. As a Welsh International I played in test series in South Africa, New Zealand and Samoa. I captained the Wales under 21 team in 2017 to European Bronze and then attended the World Youth Cup in Botswana. Through Celtic Dragons, I have played in the Vitality Netball Super league team for the two seasons.”

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COMMONWEALTH GAMES | THE SUSTAINER

Her dream from a child was to go to the 2018 Commonwealth Games and that dream came true in Apr 2018, after hard work and years of commitment and training. Fern says that the pre-games training focused on fitness and strength as much as skills. It was arduous and she says before flying out to Australia she had achieved a level of fitness well beyond anything she had known before.“I was the fittest I’ve ever been,” she says.“The training regime was incredibly demanding, but I continued working full-time with two half days a week allowed for training.”

But the team’s preparation did not go as smoothly as it would have liked.

“The Commonwealth Games are a four-year cycle and no-one is ever guaranteed a place in the team,” says Fern.“Two months before we failed to qualify for the 2019 World Cup. It was a real shock…a hard-hitting moment.

Over the next six weeks we tried to recover our morale and gel together as a team.There was also a change of coaches, and Julie had a very different style!” explains Fern.“That’s not always a bad thing, but it was unsettling so close to the Games. Our training plan went from intense to unreal.”

Did competing at the Commonwealth Games live up to all her expectations?

“I suppose now it’s over I feel a bit deflated,” she says.“But when we got there the whole experience was

surreal.You get an idea in your head what it will be like. It’s just a million times better.”

After arriving in Australia, the team went to Tasmania for a ten-day training camp. They played warm-up matches against Australian SuperLeague teams and a friendly against Northern Ireland. Then they flew to the Gold Coast.“We were treated like royalty from the outset and the whole Gold Coast was booming. The thing that brought it home for me was the opening ceremony. The village was pretty cool too.You rubbed shoulders with athletes you see on the telly.That whole experience was monumental,” she says.

Despite their hard work and dedication, sadly Team Wales Netball only managed an 11th place finish.

The gold medal going to England.

Fern admits disappointment, but takes a big positive from the fact that the UK prevailed. As the nation we are one of the strongest in this sport.

“We finished bottom of our pool,” she says, but I am proud to be associated with the UK and the winning team from England. I watched the final and could barely contain my excitement.

Wales finished on a win, against Fiji in the 11th and 12th playoff.We then had three days to relax.We had some beach time and got to explore the area. There was a Team Wales event at the end and it was great to mingle

with all the other athletes.”

Fern’s advice to any army athletes who aspire to elite level sport is, they must be totally committed.

“Competing at the very top level in any sport is hard. If you have any doubt about what you are doing I mean you’re not loving and enjoying it - then that is the time to stop. Enjoyment is key. My other advice is talk to people.Whether it’s about psychological issues, nutrition, training or whatever, there are always people around who can help.

When I first joined the Army, I was like a rabbit in the headlights; trying to juggle my sport with my day job. The minute I spoke to someone, I got help. So, a big one is communication. Managing disappointment is hard, but through the team you draw on everyone’s strength of character.You draw a line under the disappointment, learn from it and move on.”

Now Fern has achieved her initial dream of representing her country at the elite level, within the four-year cycle she has some time to re-focus on her career and her other sports.

There is no doubt that whatever the sport, playing it at the highest level requires total personal commitment, dedication and sacrifice. But even if the medals aren’t forthcoming, the long-term personal rewards are immense and the memories priceless.

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THE SUSTAINER | INVICTUS GAMES

The unconquered The INVICTUS Games harness the power of sport to inspire recovery, support and rehabilitation, generating a wider understanding and respect for those who serve their country. An RLC officer represented team GB in Toronto in 2017 and another will go to Sidney in Oct for the 2018 Games.

In 2011, while deployed in Afghanistan supporting 42 Commando Royal Marines, Major Bruce Ekman was injured in an IED strike on his MASTIFF vehicle.The original prognosis was that his left foot would have to be amputated and he was CASEVAC’ed out of Afghanistan back to the UK for the operation.

Fortunately, the expert military surgeons at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham could save his foot. Bruce has, with the help of a prototype exoskeletal device known as a Momentum Brace, made a near full recovery.

He maintains a significant pathway to his recovery was being selected to representing the British Armed Forces in the 2017 INVICTUS Games in Toronto Canada. He says:“The word ‘Invictus’ means ‘unconquered’.

It embodies the fighting spirit of the wounded, injured and sick service personnel and what these tenacious men and women can achieve, post 26

injury. The 2017 competition saw more than 550 competitors from 17 nations compete in 12 sports over an eight-day period. All competitors were either serving or veteran service members from participating allied nations who have become ill or

injured during or as a direct consequence of their service.

Bruce represented Great Britain in athletics, swimming and rowing.

His most notable achievement was winning the gold medal in the 1500m track race which was televised live on BBC1.

Since recovering from his injuries Bruce has worked as the Operations Officer of Commando Logistic Regiment and as the SO2 Lead Logistic Planner in 16 Air Assault Brigade. In the past two years Bruce has completed his MBA and has published his first fictional book.

Bruce is currently Officer Commanding 12 Close Support Squadron in 1 Regiment RLC and is deployed in BATUS on Exercise WARRIORS CRAFT. Captain Lavinia Goddard, is a Late Entry (LE) officer who served with 17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC. Lavinia joined the Army in 1996.

Following Phase-1 training she qualified as a movement controller

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INVICTUS GAMES | THE SUSTAINER and was selected to play for the Army Women's Football team. Lavinia says: “Unfortunately, I sustained a back injury playing Army Sport, which hindered my initial progression and eventually resulted in me having an operation. After spending several months at Headley Court and numerous rehabilitation courses, I returned to duty. My first posting was with 29 Regiment RLC, where I completed several tours in Norway supporting AMF (Land) and the Royal Marines in their arctic expeditions.

Additional to this, I served overseas in Egypt on Ex BRIGHT STAR and completed a tour in Bosnia where I was aero-meded for a right knee injury, which resulted in a full reconstruction.”

Following her recovery Lavinia’s career involved a variety overseas exercises and operations including: Iraq and Afghanistan. Lavinia was promoted to WO1 in 2015 went for a commission in The RLC. In Apr 2016, she joined 17 Regt RLC as second in command (2iC) of 52 Sqn. Lavinia continues:“My introduction to the squadron and regiment was at lightning pace.Within my first six months I found myself acting up to command the squadron due to my OC going on maternity leave. I relished the opportunity, as I knew this was a once in a lifetime chance.

During this time, I was still fulfilling my role of 2iC, which included the Wounded, Injured, and Sick (WIS) welfare visits for the soldiers within the squadron, along with added pressure when my operations officer was deployed.

“Regrettably, over that summer I experienced some significant events.

I didn’t realise at the time they would impact me so profoundly. This traumatic time resulted in flashbacks and unconscious memories surfacing from operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. I started to have anxiety attacks and became very depressed.

However, I did not immediately distinguish these changes in my behaviour and attitude. I was struggling but, at the same time, I was in total denial as I desperately wanted to succeed and enjoy my role within the unit. After all, I was an LE officer, with over 20 years’ service. My world came crashing down on 17 Oct 2016. Physically and mentally, I could no longer cope with the nightmares and anxiety, compounded with the

intense work stresses and I found myself placed on the opposite side of the table as a WIS soldier. I felt shame, guilt, and weakness and felt I had failed in my role as an officer.

I quickly descended to a deep low, pushing everyone I knew away from me, which resulted in the ending of a long-term relationship and disconnection from my immediate family. At this point, it was very evident I was not managing and often thought I was better off dead. I knew I had two options, to give up or find some strength and fight. I chose to fight. I forced myself outdoors with simple walks, mindfulness, audiobooks for education and attended the Help for Heroes’

The INVICTUS Ethos: “I am the master of my own fate: The captain of my own soul” Sportsfest open day. This combined with my individual recovery programme was a turning point in my life. I started to regularly attend Help for Heroes INVICTUS trials weekends, which helped me to feel part of something productive with other comrades. I realised that I could experience fun and laughter and found the ambition to succeed at new sports, in this unique environment surrounded by other service personnel with both visible and invisible injuries. For the first time, I did not feel like I was on my own with my thoughts, actions, or illness. At this stage, I also came to terms with the reality of me having mental health issues. I was within an inclusive environment, where mental health, depression, PTSD, and anxiety were not words to be shameful of and

became real entities to me. I could engage in adapted sports for past injuries with my back and knee injuries, as well as addressing my own mental health.

Over the next six months, I attended training sessions for sitting volleyball, sailing and powerlifting.

These were three new sports to me and I loved the experience of learning, developing and being part of a team again. Over 1200 serving and veterans started the INVICTUS process, with 450 attending the final selection weekend. I was absolutely gobsmacked and overwhelmed to have received an email saying I had been successful in obtaining a place as part of the 72 personnel on the Great Britain Team for INVICTUS 18, representing my country in powerlifting and as a reserve for sailing.

My future in the Army is uncertain and I am still in recovery. The one thing I do know for certain is that without the support of INVICTUS, Help for Heroes, Tedworth and Phoenix House as part of the WIS system, my life would be in a different place and I could not be certain if I would be here today.

I am well into my training programme for powerlifting and attending regular training camps with the support of a GB trainer and some fantastic comrades. I travel to Sydney on the 15 Oct 18 and will be participating in my event on the 24 Oct 18, against 17 other countries.

The event is already a sell-out with the Australian communities supporting the ethos of the INVICTUS games, which will be televised. I am so honoured to be representing my country and for all my hard work along this personal road of recovery to have resulted in such a positive experience for me. I still hope to return to duty.

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORTS REPORT

INTRODUCTION – RLC SPORTS REPORTS The Royal Logistic Corps has 31 official sports associations and a long and proud history of sporting excellence. The efforts of these associations – their management and the sports people who make up the teams or the individuals who compete as part of Corps teams – make The RLC one of the most competitive and successful sporting units in the British Army.

We are army champions in numerous sports both major and minor, are inter services Royal Windsor Horse Show (RWHS) 11 and 12 May 18 saw the RLC coaching club, tent pegging team and show jumping team represent the Corps at the RWHS. One of the most prestigious events in the equestrian calendar with top class international competitions, the show takes place at the park in front of Windsor Castle. The military competitors parade for the Queen on Saturday with the show jumping class taking place in the main arena.

Tent pegging had an incredible tournament with a competitive second place for the B team; Lt Col Middleditch, Maj Pittaway and Cpl Bennion. In fifth place was the RLC A team; Maj Puckey, Maj Briggs and Maj Prescott. Two riders from the Corps where selected to show jump; Capt Rose Lambert and LCpl Holly Hall. Both riders had an amazing round and the team went through to the final rounds (jumping in front of the Queen) and were just short of the first prize by less than a second.

Overall results: Coaching club third place, RLC SJ team second place and RLC TP team second place.

The Royal Artillery Polo Tournament May Bank Holiday and RLC Polo were in action at the Royal Artillery Tournament. This is the start of the military polo season and this year The RLC entered two teams, a first in years! The rules of polo are complex but players and teams are awarded a handicap to allow riders of different abilities to compete together. The RLC A team (Lt Col Lucy Anderson, Capt James Wilson, 28

champions in some sports and have soldiers competing at international level, including two Olympic hopefuls.

Major General (Retd) Shaun Burley, is the chairman of the Army Sports Control Board (ASCB). We interviewed General Burley for this edition of The Sustainer and he congratulated The RLC on its sporting success. He said that The RLC is doing particularly well in sport alongside the REME, the Royal Engineers and the Medical

Services. This is opposed to the performance of those units that are more tribal, such as the Armoured Corps and Infantry, who choose to field regimental teams at army level sport, rather than combine their talents.

Several RLC sportsmen and women recently received sports scholarships from the ASCB. Over the next 11 pages we include reports from many of our sports associations and there are additional sports updates contained within the unit reports.

ROYAL LOGISTIC CORPS - EQUITATION Lt Nick Lowe and Lt Xander SmailWoodford) soared to victory in the Division 2 competition beating the HAC and then RA on their way to victory. The B team (Maj Nigel Prescott, Maj Matt Pittaway, Maj Hannah Hewins and Capt Nicky Hemsworth) competing in Division

3 were narrowly pipped by the Help for Heroes select team before seeing off the AGC to secure second place. Capt James Wilson was also awarded the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament award at the end of the day.

8 Club secretary: Maj R Lambert

RLC TENNIS

quality of the competing teams is high. On the last day of the league, four of the six Corps in the A league could have been relegated.

Despite relegation the outlook is incredibly bright. The 2018 RLC Championships were a tremendous success. The week saw the largest turnout for the past five years and some exciting new talent has been identified across the ranks, both male and female. RLC Tennis is bouncing back with an overseas tour planned for next year and with the team going from strength to strength, The RLC will soon be a force to be reckoned with on the tennis court.

2018 has been a busy year for RLC Tennis. The team competed in the Winter and Summer A Leagues, the Inter-Corps Championship as well as hosting a successful RLC Tennis Championships.

With several key players away or injured, the Corps team showed tenacity to stay in the A league during the Winter. However even though there were some outstanding performances during the Summer, the team was relegated to the B league. The

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SPORTS REPORT | THE SUSTAINER

RLC Boxing Developing soldiers When we talk about sport as a development tool for soldiers, there is no better sport than boxing. Boxing is the only sport one doesn’t “play” and several Units “boxed” this year in preparation for The RLC Championships. A record number of 86 boxers weighed in and competed over four tough days to produce 12 spectacular final bouts.

Female boxers competed at Bantam, Light and Welter weight categories. The males boxed at nine weights, from Bantam to Super-heavy weight. Of particular note were the two boxers awarded the most gallant runner up, Pte Roxy Williams, 27 Regt RLC and the best boxer of the evening, LCpl Thomas Stevenson, 13 AASR RLC. Not only is The RLC developing its boxers, but its officials too. We have qualified officials and coaches

that are now leading the way.

Notably: Captain Liam Harkin, 27 Regt RLC, a lead official in the Army, UKAF and England Boxing; WO2 Kris Lang, Defence School of Transport; Corps coach and a Grade A referee; and Sgt Kyle Holder, 27 Regt RLC, now assistant coach to the Army team.

We already have huge boxing success in the Corps, Cpl Alanna Nihell 27 Regt, represented N. Ireland in the Commonwealth Games, her husband LCpl Chez

RLC BASKETBALL RLC Basketball has had another highly successful year, with all members to be congratulated on their teamwork and selfless commitment, in addition to their sporting excellence!

Of note was the Inter Corps Basketball Championships 2017 with all three teams making their respective finals; the Men’s A Team and the Women’s Team were both crowned winners in their competitions; two out of three is not

at all shabby! This now makes the second year in a row for the Men and the third year in a row for the Women. Special congratulations go Lt Holly Kirkham (13 AASR RLC) who was awarded the ‘Most Valuable Player’ and the ‘Players’ Player’ award, and Pte Rupak Gurung (27 Regt RLC) for earning the ‘Most Valuable Player’ and ‘Best Rookie’ award.

The first annual Army Basketball All-Star Event was held in May

8 Pte Dom Clark from 27 RLC and LCpl Thomas Stevenson from 13 Regt RLC (best boxer of the night) step toe to toe

Nihell 27 Regt was crowned as English National Champion and LCpl Kyle Morrison has represented Wales. The future is bright for RLC boxing, with Inter-Corps boxing matches planned against other Corps and 18 Oct 2018 has been set for the first encounter against the REME. 8 Secretary: Capt L Harkin which saw The RLC win the 3v3 competition and the three-point shootout. We were also runners up in the skills competition.

Such is the skill of RLC Basketball players, we have had representation at both Army and Combined Services level. At Army level, we had nine women and seven men, and at Combined Services level there were four of each. All in all, a highly successful and rewarding year and we all look forward to seeing what next year brings!

8 Secretary Men: Maj LJ Lyons Secretary Women: Maj A Shields

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORTS REPORT The RLC (Men’s) Corps team began the 2017/18 Inter Corps league as reigning champions for the third year in succession. The pre-season training camp was held in Abingdon over the period 11-15 Sept 2017. A total of 24 players and seven staff attended.

This season’s Massey League results were not as strong as previous seasons and as a result we finished second. Games against the senior corps were very much hit and miss. After such a successful period of RLC Corps football it is now important to re-group and focus on establishing ourselves again as the senior corps within army football.

The following RLC Corps players were selected to represent the UK Armed Forces FA (Kentish Cup Winners): Cpl Wilkinson and LCpl Gorman.

The following RLC Corps players represented the Army: Army Senior Team (Inter Service Winners): 2Lt Sabo, Sgt Shaw, Cpl Wilkinson, Cpl Williams, LCpl Gorman, Pte Wooley Army U23’s (Inter Service Winners): LCpl Gorman, LCpl Shaw, LCpl Hackett, Pte Brown, Pte Day, Pte Laidler, Pte Gale and Pte South.

Cpl Wilkinson was awarded the

RLC CORPS FOOTBALL TEAM (MEN)

Army Men’s Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year; a truly outstanding achievement.

The biggest challenge we face will be the changeover of the team management and how this affects the players. We are continuing to ‘talent spot’ future corps players and the main corps events (the Sixes and Major/Minor Units cup) continue to produce a steady stream of players from which to select from.

Capt Lee Davies will be engaging

with unit RSM’s to send the message that the door is always open to corps football providing you are good enough. The RLC FA season started with The RLC six-a-side competition held over the period 5-6 Sept 18 at Abingdon.

The pre-season training camp was held at Abingdon over the period 10-13 Sept with the first fixture in the Massey league taking place against the REME on Fri 14 Sept 18.

8 Team manager: Capt S P Birchnall

RLC CORPS FOOTBALL TEAM (WOMEN) The RLC (Women’s) Corps Football team began the 2017/18 Inter Corps Football League in the strongest position for years having been crowned league champions and completing a successful tour of the USA. During the season, player numbers were struggling and the management team with the help of players worked nonstop to try and find new talent. On the positive side, the team worked with reserve units and the Army Reserve Team, resulting in us selecting LCpl Anderson (159 Regt) and Pte Smith (159 Regt). Both are great additions to the team and have contributed to our success.

This issue aside, the players worked tirelessly all season and produced some outstanding football, which resulted in the team being unbeaten in the league for three seasons. We also achieved the double this season by winning the 30

league and the Edwards Cup final.

The Corps has taken the lead in developing the grass roots women’s game. Over 600 soldiers had the opportunity to represent their units and play competitive football regularly. Many RLC units have supported this initiative. 29 Regt RLC won the treble (Army Champions, RLC Champions and the FA 1966 Commemorative Cup winners) and 27 Regt won the Army Plate.

Over the last few months a restructuring of staff has taken place, ensuring all aspects of the game are covered. We have also recruited additional staff to deal with welfare, liaison and goalkeeping. We plan to hold trials late Sept, with all staff directed to scout for new talent over the summer months. We also aim to recruit more reservists. The team will also be engaging with national disability groups. Last season

The RLC helped the GB ‘Deaf’ team prepare for the Deaf Olympics, where it achieved a commendable bronze medal.

8 Team manager: Maj J Normanton

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SPORTS REPORT | THE SUSTAINER The RLC Rowing Club has just had its most active year to date with a novice crew racing in Holland, its largest turn out at the Joint Services Regatta, representation in Army crews, and an international rower competing on the world stage. Importantly, The RLC is meeting its main aim of introducing a constant stream of soldiers to the sport.

The highlight from last year was the regatta at Breda in the Netherlands, which the Army has been entering for over 15 years, but until now had never entered a novice crew. A coxed 4 comprising rowers from 9 Regt RLC and Defence Munitions (DM) Kineton Station spent four days in this picturesque Dutch city. Following a few days of intensive training, the crew raced admirably on the grueling 5km course, improving noticeably and clearly benefitting from the experience.

The strength of The RLC Rowing Club was exemplified by its presence and performance at the Joint Services Regatta in Sept 17, even fielding a novice 8 which last happened 12 years ago. The RLC came away with four wins, four second places and three

RLC Rowing Club

8 The RLC Rowers at the Joint Services Regatta

crews which raced in the heats, but didn't qualify for the final. On the civilian stage, 2Lt Eve Newton raced in the Army 8 in the prestigious Women's Head of the River Race in London, coming 96th out of 301. At the highest level,

LCpl Stephen Cox is in full time training with the hope of qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics.

8 Secretary: Maj N Roberts

fixtures in Hampshire, York and the West Midlands. Matches against Shropshire Squash Club and Wolverhampton Squash Club were played in early Jul with a further civilian fixture against Pontefract Squash Club planned for Sept 18.

SSgt Dean Boys was among ten players to be selected to attend the Army Squash Academy which is being supported by England Squash coaching staff.

The Academy has 12 training camps throughout the year, each

lasting two days, where Army players are pushed hard on fitness and tactics by professional coaches and players.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to RLC Squash, WO2 Kev Gibson was nominated for, and subsequently awarded the Lifetime Achievement recognition at The RLC Sports Awards 2018.

At a glittering awards ceremony, WO2 Gibson was recognised for his contribution and support to Corps Squash over the past 25 years.

8 Secretary: WO2 A Black

RLC SQUASH 2017/18 has once again been a busy and challenging season for RLC Squash. Both RLC teams performed exceptionally in the 2017 Inter Corps Squash Championships, retaining credible positions in their respective divisions.

The RLC Individual and Inter Unit Championships 2017 drew over 75 competitors from across the Corps, as well as personnel serving in other formations. Over a period of three days, competitors played in over 200 squash matches to determine champion players in: open, closed, ladies, veterans and inter unit disciplines.

Additionally, the Corps has provided personnel to represent the Army competitively and administratively as key stakeholders in Army Squash events.

2017/18 has seen the Corps team conduct training camps and

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORTS REPORT

RLC Swimming and Water Polo 8 Capt Lucy Powell competing in the 100m Butterfly at the Inter-Service Championships

8 SWIMMING The RLC has a significant historical pedigree in swimming achievements. In the 2017 World Masters Games, 3 RLC personnel competed, producing seven podium finishes in team and individual competitions. The key to the future success of the team is the nurturing and development of new talent enabling the progression of talent from Unit to Corps to Army level representation.

There are currently 2 RLC females that represent the Army.

8 WATER POLO The RLC has developed significant standing in water polo over the last few years. In terms of talent development, the Corps has a progressive and effective

8 Capt Nick Covington (No 12) scoring against the RAF at the Inter-Service Championships

British National League for the first time in its history.

programme that seeks to maximise individual potential and strengthen the depth of squads. For the last two years, both the male and female water polo teams have finished second in the Inter-Corps Championships. There is a real drive to get over the final hurdle to be crowned champions in 2019.

There are currently seven members of The RLC that represent the Army. Four female and three male. All recently competed in the Inter-Services Championships with the Army male team entering the

Forthcoming events 24 Oct 18 - RLC Inter-Unit Swimming and Water Polo Championships: Aldershot Garrison Sports Centre.

5-6 Dec 18 - Inter-Corps Swimming and Water Polo Championships:, Aldershot Garrison Sports Centre.

Contact us For any assistance organising unit events or supporting RLC Swimming and Water Polo please do not hesitate to contact us.

8 Secretary: Maj D J Lowe

RLC CANOEING Canoe sport has been a part of Army sports for decades and there has always been a strong representation from RLC paddlers. It is a diverse sport and sees people paddling for many different reasons: enjoyment, AT or competitive sport. All of which attract ranks from Private to General.

RLC Canoeing competes in Canoe Slalom, Canoe Polo, Sprint and Marathon, Surf, Wild Water Racing and Freestyle. It runs competitions for RLC units, as well as supporting Army and InterServices events. Competition is open to all, with categories suitable for total novices, up to nation champions. It really is a sport for all.

Anyone who is interested in learning more about the sport, becoming involved in competitive 32

paddling or is just after advice for AT expeditions, should get in touch at the following Email: Phillip.Lawrence628@mod.gov.uk Carl.boyden899@mod.gov.uk Facebook: Find us in groups under: RLC Canoeing 8 Chairman: Maj P Lawrence

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SPORTS REPORT | THE SUSTAINER

RLC WINTER SPORTS President Secretary Treasurer

Brig S Shirley MBE Maj JJ Mageean RLC Maj D Finnigan RLC

The RLC Winter Sports Association (RLCWSA) supports our officers and soldiers to participate, train and compete in four discrete winter sports disciplines; Ice Sports, Snowboarding, Nordic Skiing and Alpine Skiing.

The RLCWSA places a strong emphasis on the development of our most junior cohort and encourages greater female

participation. Notably, it is one of the most integrated collection of sports with regular and reserve participation, female and junior, from around the Corps.

Winter Sports within The RLC continues to go from strength to strength.

Following a highly successful winter sports season in 2018, members of the Corps are now in full swing planning and preparing for the coming season. There are various RLC led training camps and competitions being organised around Europe in late 2018/early

2019, which are designed to introduce novices to the sports or further develop those more experienced athletes. This will allow personnel to move forward confidently to regional championships with a vision of qualifying for the Army Championships.

RLCWSA VISION To promote increased Winter Sports participation with a particular focus on junior, female and reserve soldiers, to develop talent and to win individual, unit and Corps titles at army level.

RLC Winter Sports Camps and Competitions Discipline

Event

Dates

Organiser

Email

Snowboarding

Ex LOGISTIC BOARDER

Jan/Feb 19

Capt K Halbert

3REME-RLC-OC@mod.uk

Ice Sports

Ex RACING ICE

Date TBC

Capt J Redler

James.Redler820@mod.gov.uk

Alpine Skiing

Ex KNEES BEND

2 – 14 Dec 18

Capt L Diprose

Lloyd.Diprose314@mod.gov.uk

Nordic Skiing

Ex KNEES STRETCH

1 -11 Dec 18

Capt McHugh

Stephen.mchugh753@mod.gov.uk

Ex SKI RLC 19

RLC Alpine and Nordic Ski Championships

17 Feb – 1 Mar 19

6 RLC

6RLC-EX-SKI-RLC@mod.gov.uk

RLC FENCING Great things happen when you have a person with a vision!

In 2016, Cpl Francois Louw of 47 Air Despatch Squadron had a vision of introducing members of his Sqn into the fencing community.

Cpl Louw put together and trained a dedicated and ambitious team to enter the Army championships in 2017.

A further years’ worth of training and the team from 47 Sqn was at the Army Championships yet again, this time with gold in its sights. Watching them fence, they were a different team in only a year; showing skills that would normally take several years to master. With incredible battles fought, 47 Sqn secured the victory and earnt the right to go to the Inter-Services’ Championships.

They approached the Inter-Services with the same dedication and passion as they did previously and yet again were victorious winning gold in the six-man team event! An incredible achievement for fencing athletes with only two years’ experience, but down to their dedication and the skills and vision of their coach.

In 2018 Cpl Ryland-Gasher (HQ

The RLC) was voted as the United Kingdom Armed Forces (UKAF) Men’s Fencing Captain. He is the first JNCO within the history of the sport at combined service level to hold this position. He now holds committee positions at every level within forces fencing.

2018 RLC Fencing has also welcomed a new president, Colonel Siebenellar (Colonel Reserves RLC).

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORTS REPORT

RLC Rifle Association To be an effective soldier one must be a competent shot and there is nowhere better to hone this skill than in combat shooting.

2018 witnessed a growth in participation across The RLC in Operational Shooting Competitions (OSCs) with strong performances throughout.

The season was underpinned by The RLC Rifle Association’s Captains’ Cadre. This package provided shooting team captains

the foundation knowledge to train their personnel with effective techniques and prepare first-timers for the competitions. The first event in unit diaries was the brigade OSCs. The largest of these was the 101 Logistic Brigade OSC with RLC units achieving first, second and third overall placings. 102 Logistic Brigade and 104 Logistic Brigade had their own competitions, qualifying teams to enter the First (United Kingdom) Division OSC and Force Troops Command OSCs respectively.

The Army Operational Shooting Competition at Bisley was the culmination of the season. The final

team results were 10 QOGLR 4th, ARRC Sp Bn 10th, 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC 12th, 27 Regiment RLC 22nd, 4 Regiment RLC 25th, 29 Regiment RLC 27th, 17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC 38th and 6 Regiment RLC 40th. To be in the Army 100 is what every firer strives to accomplish when competing at Bisley and this year 11 RLC officers and soldiers achieved this accolade.

Of note was LCpl Arshu Gurung (10 QOGLR) who achieved a career best of fourth in the Army 100 and is perhaps the Corps’ best hope for a Queen’s Medal in the future.

8 Secretary: Maj D J Pickersgill

to come back fighting and regain the title no matter what! Additional training, pair reconfiguration and some hard-fought games, saw the team win the Inter Corps competition in Feb 2018. The team is keen to retain in the title in the 18/19 season.

The badminton season starts again in the autumn with the Inter Unit Championships taking place at Grantham 25-28 Sept 18, for more information please contact: Netrabahadur.Gurung337@ mod.gov.uk 8 Secretary: Capt I Shepherd

RLC BADMINTON The 2017/18 season has been the busiest and most successful to date for The RLC Badminton team. During the season the team: reclaimed the Inter Corps title, conducted an overseas visit to Nepal and four players represented the Army at the UKAF Badminton Championships.

The success reflects the skill, hard work and dedication shown by all members of the team.

The RLC Men’s team had a hardfought season and a real tenacity was seen in the latter part of the season. Defeated at the Inter Corps competition in 2016/17 by the Royal Signals, the team was determined 34

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SPORTS REPORT | THE SUSTAINER

RLC Hockey What a year for RLC Hockey!

The 2017/18 season has seen the sport continue to grow within the Corps and the bar has been set high by the achievements of our players, managers and officials alike. Firstly, there was the famous ‘double’ where, for the first time, the Corps won both the men’s and ladies’ Inter Corps Indoor Championship.

We thought we couldn’t top that and then out of nowhere Lt Mitch Dales and LCpl Kristis Bubnelis took it to the next level by taking the men’s indoor team to Lithuania and the Zalgiris Open Indoor Tournament. With a credible performance in the Inter Corps League, both the men’s and ladies’ teams were pipped at the post at the outdoor competition, with the men claiming the AHA Plate and beating a resurgent REME team in the process.

Our players’ performance brought strong recognition in the form of no less than six Corps Colours awards, the Army Hockey

Association Charlie Wood Plate for Maj Lou Riddell and with LCpl Gary Clark as first runner-up in The RLC Sportsman of the Year category.

Best of all, fourteen RLC Regiments competed for the Bari Cup in a traditionally competitive contest. It was superbly organised by Capt Gemma Darrington and with the President of RLC Hockey, Brig Simon Hutchings and our principal

8 LCpl Gary Clark (Captain of the Men’s Team) in action against the Infantry at the AHA Inter Corps Competition in May 2018

sponsor Brig (Retd) Chris Murray in attendance to present the winners’ trophies. Next season will seek to build on the successes of this year and heralds our major sports tour to Barbados for hockey in the sun.

Roll on 2018/19!

THE ROYAL LOGISTIC CORPS CYCLING ASSOCIATION The Royal Logistic Corps Cycling Association (RLCCA) has endured for over seven years. It exists to bring cyclists of all abilities, from the regulars and reserves, together in some spirited competition, training camps, overseas tours and to ‘talent spot’ and develop riders to compete at higher level. It also supports the Army Cycling Union’s mantra of “inspiring soldiers to cycle” In the last twelve months, the RLCCA has conducted an overseas tour to Morzine, France where 38 riders from road and MTB disciplines enjoyed some of France’s finest roads, hills and trails in a safe and relatively quiet environment. The RLCCA committee has also organised a winter training camp in North Yorkshire where the mountain bikers enjoyed some of the keenest trails on offer and the ‘roadies’

covered some of the routes used in the 2014 Tour de France. Mar 2018 saw the regular deployment to Capil Curig Training Camp where over 100 cyclists of all abilities took advantage of the Snowdonia National Park for a week. Fast forward to Jun and the RLCCA Corps Championships were held at Abingdon Airfield; here riders competed for individual prizes but also as unit teams with some quite hefty pieces of silver awarded for overall unit champions.

Aside from the main annual events, RLCCA riders from both disciplines have been heavily active in the Army series of mountain bike and road races gaining some very credible results equating to amassing points that see The RLC consistently in the upper echelons in the Army.

One rising star is LCpl Porter 29 Regt. With more than half a dozen

road race wins to her credit, including the women’s 2016 InterServices Road Race Championships and a very creditable fourth place in the British cycling circuit race championships, this year she has shown terrific development for someone who has been riding for just three years.

8 The RLCCA is always seeking support from willing volunteers to assist with the organisation of some of our events. If any reader feels they may be able to give something back to the sport (you don’t have to ‘climb off the bike’ completely), please get in touch with one of the committee members listed on the RLCCA Moss pages.

8 LCpl Porter

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35

THE SUSTAINER | SPORTS REPORT

RLC RUFC The RLC RUFC has had an outstanding season. The Men’s XV managed to go unbeaten all season which resulted in them claiming the Inter-Corps Championship with a hardfought victory over the Royal Artillery (RA) at Aldershot in freezing conditions.

It was the second time that season The RLC had beaten the RA with a victory in the Merit Table securing the Ferneyhough Cup whilst victory against the REME ensured the Palestine Cup remained in The RLC trophy cabinet. Success continued for the Men’s XV when they claimed ‘Team of the Year’ at the Annual RLC Sports Awards. Head coach, Capt Andy Evans, was second runner-up in the ‘Official of the Year’ category and Pte Vasuitoga was second runner-up in the ‘Young Sportsman of the Year’ award – a fantastic achievement all round.

The Women’s XV also had a very successful season. Having notched up some highly impressive victories in the group stage, there were high hopes that The RLC Women would claim the crown but sadly the AGC proved too strong.

8 Cpl Hull in action for the RLC 7s at the ASCB 7s Competition

The Masters team continues to grow in strength with a notable victory coming against the REME to claim the Palestine Bowl to add to the silverware haul. Comparatively the team is one of the most active Masters sides and successfully competes against both their military and civilian counterparts.

The RLC 7s team has taken great strides this summer where it has been competing in both military and civilian competitions. Under the stewardship of Capt Charlie Frost it competed strongly at the Farnham 7s, Army Sports Control Board 7s, Richmond 7s and North Dorset 7s with further

competitions to come in the shape of the Fiji UK 7s.

The season culminated with no less than five players across the Men’s, women’s and Masters’ teams selected to represent the Army against the Navy – a tremendous achievement.

Overall it has been an outstanding season for all involved, the support received from all units has been first class which is vital to success. We now look forward to the upcoming season where we hope to continue to win more silverware.

The Corps Rugby League Club continues to grow and develop and remains focused on success and increasing participation at all levels. 2018 will be the first year for women’s participation below Army level. The Corps is leading the way in women’s rugby league, showcased by the first RLC v Army development game on the same day as the men’s Lawson

Cup finals. The aim for 2019 is greater integration into the club, more matches and greater participation.

Looking forward, 2019 will bring the overseas tour to the USA. The first in over a dozen years, the tour will allow the club to continue to develop and build players and cohesion in a demanding but enjoyable atmosphere.

RLC RUGBY LEAGUE 2018 has seen continued momentum for the Corps Rugby League Club, building on a strong foundation from last season. Participation in both the men’s and women’s games is increasing and the planning for the tour to the USA in 2019 is moving on a pace.

With participation continuing to grow, the club has seen an increase in players as well as those attending coaching courses, delivering the next generation and building on the club’s long term goals. This year, despite operational, training and other tasks commitments, the Corps has been fortunate to field a full 1st XIII for all Lawsons Cup games and continue towards the aim to deliver a 2nd XIII. 36

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SPORTS REPORT | THE SUSTAINER

RLC Netball RLC Netball has had an excellent season so far, with the largest turnout of females across regular and reserve units competing for the Corps. In May 2018, the netball committee hosted the Boden Cup; the annual RLC inter unit competition, held in memory of Maj Leslie Boden.

This year we had the largest turnout to date, with some units combining extra players to field additional teams. The Boden Cup 2018 was won by 17 P&M Regt, in what was an extremely well fought game against the runners up 25 Regt. 13 AASp Regt and DST came a very close third and fourth respectively.

In addition to the Boden Cup, RLC netball has organised numerous friendly matches against both military and civilian teams.. The games have proved very useful with training progression, especially with the new training coach, Susan. The RLC netball squad looks forward to taking back the Inter Corps Championship title later in Oct this year.

8 The winning team of the Boden Cup – 17 Regt RLC

The last and probably the biggest thing on the RLC netball calendar this year, is the upcoming OSV Sports Tour to Jamaica in Sep 19.

Selection is underway and will be finalised after this year’s Inter Corps’ Championships.

If you are interested in joining RLC Netball and becoming a part of our squad, please contact Capt Kate Whitby.

8 Secretary: Capt K Whitby

RLC ATHLETICS The 2018 season began in May with The RLC Inter-Unit Championships. As usual the competition was tough, with a healthy air of friendly rivalry between units. 27 Regt prevailed as Major Unit Champions, with Cpl Campbell winning the Outstanding Athlete award. Minor Unit Champions went to the Commando Logistic Regiment; their first appearance at the event.

A strong RLC Team was selected for the Army Inter-Corps Championships, held in Aldershot on 20 Jun. With a lot of new athletes and a new management team of 2Lt Eve Newton (3 Regt) and Sgt Nick Hood (CLR), it was difficult to predict how The RLC would perform. The team got off to a strong start. LCpl Fern Davies (9 Regt), dominated the women’s 100m hurdles. Pte Adi Kedreika (9 Regt), on her first appearance for

The RLC, won the women’s 200m and the long jump by a clear margin. The RLC men’s team dominated in the throwing events, with wins from team stalwart and coach SSgt Os Osazuwa (9 Regt) in the hammer and LCpl Osman Muskwe (3 Regt) who won both the shot and discus. The stand-out track performance came from Pte

8 The team captain (Pte Taraki) receiving the cup from Comd 102 Log Bde, Brig Blair-Tidewell

Drammah (27 Regt), who won the men’s 100m, 200m and 400m.

The relay teams rounded off a day of impressive performances, with a strong win in the men’s 4x400m and second place in both the men’s and women’s 4x100m. The RLC men’s team were overall runners-up of the event, a great result and a testament to the hard work of the athletes, the regimental coaches and team manager Sgt Nick Hood.

The RLC Athletics team hopes to secure funding for an overseas training camp next year to take their successes to the next level.

8 Pte Adi Kedraika

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORTS REPORT Corps Orienteering has gone from strength to strength over the 2017/18 season. Next season we want to see the Women’s team and the Under 25 team compete for the top spot alongside the Men’s team, who successfully defended their Inter Corps title this season. We owe much gratitude to our team captain, WO2 Tom McComiskie.

At the Corps Championships, Cpl Scott Parnell was crowned champion against the best Corps runners with a near perfect run. At the end of the season he had helped ATR(W) finish top of the minor units in the MLS League. The Major Units were dominated by HQ Army, but 17 P&M Regt finished a highly creditable second place with Deepcut Stn in third ahead of RMAS, a notable scalp. 11 EOD were just outside the top ten in 11th place of 60 major units making it one of the most competitive leagues of any sport in the country. Four members of our Corps represented the Army and subsequently the Combined Services, Lt Col Lucy Giles, Maj Emmit Andrews, Maj Richard Barrett and Cpl Dan Cox. In early Jul 2018 the team travelled to the World Masters Orienteering Championships, this year held in and around Copenhagen, Denmark. 11 competitors represented The RLC and competed against over 4000 competitors from over 45 countries.

The first event was something new for all of us was an “indoor sprint” race set inside a local highschool. It was a first for even the most experienced orienteers to hit a checkpoint marked by a piano!

The first real event was the Sprint qualification. There were some impressive results, with everyone qualifying for the sprint final.

RLC TUG OF WAR The success of the team has been simply phenomenal this year, with several individual soldiers being selected to pull for England at the European and World championships.

3RLC began the Tug of War season on 18 Apr with the Jack Smiths Memorial Tug of War competition and has entered a further eight competitions including the Infantry 38

RLC Orienteering

8 The RLC team at the World Masters

The sprint final the following day in the centre of Copenhagen passed through tourist packed streets, gardens and courtyards, wound through tunnels and underpasses and finished in style passing through the colonnade of Christiansborg Palace. In one of the best results of the day, Maj Craig Alexander, DST (L), finished seventh of 47 runners in his class.

Before each event qualification there was an open event, to allow competitors to work out the subtleties of the mapping. The team used these events as coaching opportunities, and these sessions were invaluable.

There were some mixed experiences on the qualification events but despite this, everyone qualified for their respective middle

and long-distance finals. The forest finals challenged everyone on the team. The terrain was difficult to traverse, hilly and full of many different route choices. The longdistance final was particularly testing, with routes of over 10km and upwards of 20 checkpoints to hit. In the intense heat dehydration was an issue. There were no medals for the Corps team, several British runners received awards.

It was a great experience and we all learned a huge amount. Many thanks to the Army Sports Lottery and the Corps for helping to fund the trip – and especially to the hard work of Maj Richard Barrett in organising and leading the tour.

8 Secretary: Capt J Begley

Championships, the Gunner Championships, the Army Outdoor Championships and the Inter-Corps, in which 3RLC took silverware in the majority of the weight categories, proving their hard-work and dedication is paying off. The team has also taken part in the Army Tug of War League and is currently second in the league in the men’s weight categories and 1st in the ladies’ weight categories.

This season has far surpassed expectations and the team continues to improve. There is a very good chance of taking silverware in the league finals.

Due to the successes from this year and from previous years, the team has been invited to compete at The Highland Games in Braemar on 1 Sep 2018 in front of the Royal Family; an amazing honour and opportunity for the team.

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EXERCISE | THE SUSTAINER

THREE BASE CHALLENGE On 4 Jun 2018, three soldiers from 25 Training Regiment set off on a long, arduous route march, that would prove to challenge every ounce of their mental and physical strength. Their goal was to march 188 miles in four days across four counties to raise money for the Soldiers, Sailors and Air Force Association.

Cpl Christopher Young started planning the march in Oct 2017.

He wanted to give something back to SSAFA after it had provided him and his family invaluable support during intensely challenging times.

When his wife started suffering from depression after the birth of their second daughter, SSAFA volunteer Eillean, was there to lend a sympathetic ear and to help the family with daily life. Cpl Young’s wife recovered from her depression and became a volunteer herself, giving something back to the organisation that had helped her so much.

Cpl Young decided to involve all three services to represent the struggle many service people and their families from the Army, Navy and Air Force go through. Exercise Three Base Challenge was born.

The route the march would take would visit the home bases of the three services.

When asked what was the hardest thing about organising the

event Cpl Young said: “The hardest piece of the whole puzzle was convincing both Cpl Christopher Denny and Cpl Lee Aldred to take part in the event. They both loved the idea and what it stood for, however both where a little sceptical of the extreme distance we aimed to cover.”

The route started at Princess Royal Barracks in Deepcut and crossed the South Downs to Portsmouth. From Portsmouth they would march to RAF Brize Norton, via Newbury. The final leg would finish at Regional Command in Aldershot.

The biggest challenge of the first leg was trying to find the right pacing. This needed to be sustainable though the entire day and ensure they reached their Portsmouth rest stop on time. They also had the South Downs to contend with during the heat of the day. They completed their first day in an impressive ten hours.

Setting off at 06:00 the next day they strode out towards RAF Brize Norton. Their first challenge of the day was a one mile, 15% gradient hill out of Portsmouth. Cpl Young says: “What better way to start the day than with the biggest steepest hill we could find. There was no way around it so, we dug deep and kept the task in mind.” Newbury was the day-two destination. The

half way point was a significant achievement in itself. They had covered 91 miles in just two days.

This moment was short lived when they realised they still had another two days to go and another 97 miles to cover.

Reaching RAF Brize Norton on day three, the stress and fatigue of marching this distance had taken its toll on the trio. The final day would be the toughest. At this point they were in pain due to the stress on their bodies. It was the last day so despite this, it was a case of heads down and push on. They arrived in Aldershot at Regional Command at 1830hrs on 7 Jun 2018.

The trio where welcomed back to Deepcut at the RLC Combined Sgts’s and WO’s mess by the SNCO’s and officers of RHQ The RLC and 25 Trg Regt as well as representatives from SSAFA and BFBS. Fund raising for SSAFA continues.

If you would like to contribute, adding to the final total raised by the event, please do so online at JustGiving.com. Search for ‘Exercise Three Base Challenge’ or you can find the link on the Exercise Three Base Challenge Facebook page.

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THE SUSTAINER | EXERCISE The Port Operator’s Department of 73 Training Squadron’s Ex FIRST IMPRESSION takes place on Browndown Beach Training Area near Gosport in Hampshire. The exercise involves two courses under training; Port Operator Class 3, undertaking their initial phase 2 trade training to learn how to undertake the duties of a port operator and Port Operator Class 2, completing their first upgraders course as phase 3 to supervise and guide Class 3 Port Operators.

The week is always a real test for the trainees, staff and external agencies involved. A Mexeflote, is provided and crewed by 17 Regt RLC and is loaded with all the cargo required for the week on Browndown Training Area. The cargo includes material handling equipment (MHE), fuels and lubricants, vehicles and stores. It sets sail from the Sea Mounting Centre Marchwood, heading down the Solent. During the voyage, the Class 3 trainees experience sailing on a Mexeflote for the first time. In the winter months, conditions can be harsh on the cold and unsheltered deck.

After a two-hour journey the Mexeflote lands on Browndown.

Once cargo is unloaded and following a hot meal, the students receive their briefs. Training then begins with the establishment of a Logistic Beach Unit (LBU). 17 Regt RLC, instructs the students on loading and unloading of cargo from a 6T MAN SV. They are also taught to preparing a slipway by grading the beach with MHE. Tuesday sees the Port Operators

73 TRAINING SQUADRON RLC – LOGISTICS SPECIALIST TRAINING

Ex FIRST IMPRESSION

By LCpl Ofuso (RLC Port Operator Class One & Two)

8 Stopping to assess the results of back blading. A process conducted to prepare the beach for the laying of trackway

continue with the establishment of the LBU. After an evening meal, the students return to the beach with the Mexeflote to enable a “Night Ops” serial to be carried out. Some of the trainees are understandably a bit tentative manoeuvring the laden JCB 436 on and off the Mexe whilst being guided by their peers with cylumes as the only source of light.

On the Wednesday, the trainees set the beach up for receipt, discharge and loading of cargo under the supervision of the training staff. In strong winds, tidal surges can dump a mixture of sand and shingles, covering the deployed trackway making it harder to recover.

8 Port Operator Class 3s (in hi vis vests) laying track way as part of a Logistic Beach Unit, overseen by a Port Operator Class 2

During the exercise run in Feb 2018 the “Beast from the East” placed exceptional demands on the trainees and staff. It hampered the beach working, however training continued albeit scaled back. Due to the weather, the Mexeflote was unable to reach Browndown for the recovery phase. The instructors developed a contingency plan to get all trainees, staff, equipment and cargo safely back by a different means on the Friday.

Despite the weather, the most challenging Ex FIRST IMPRESSION of this year was still a great success. The trainees all met their objectives without allowing the elements to dampen their spirit or stall the hard work required. Twelve new Port Operators were qualified and joined 17 Regt RLC while seven Port Operators successfully upgraded to Class 2; a fitting achievement taking 73 Trg Sqn and 17 Regt into Tthe RLC’s 26th year.

8 A Port Operator Class 3 back blading the beach using the JCB 436, supervised by a Port Operator Class 2

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EXERCISE | THE SUSTAINER Tues 6 Feb 2018 witnessed the arrival of the MV EDDYSTONE into the Port of Becancour, Montreal. Twice a year, these ships transport manoeuvre Battle Groups (BGs) and Forward Brigade Support Groups (CSS BGs) across the Atlantic to participate in the most innovative combined arms live fire exercise in the world. This BATUS training year consists: Ex PRAIRIE STORM, WARRIORS CRAFT, PRAIRIE PHOENIX and WAR PAINT and Ex PRAIRIE TRANSPORTER. The Port Task Group (PTG) began planning for Ex PRAIRIE TRANSPORTER 18-1 following the immediate departure of the previous vessel at the end of Nov 2017.

The Sea Lines of Communication between Marchwood and BATUS is in excess of 8400km. With such distances involved, along with the complex logistics that surround UN Class 1 cargo, it is vital to engage with the Canadian Department of National Defence, governmental departments, commercial hauliers and rail networks alike, to ensure all policies and contracts are firmly in place from the start.

From Marchwood the MV EDDYSTONE sails via Glen Mallan to collect the Class 1 containers before crossing the Atlantic to Becancour.

With less than two weeks until the arrival of the vessel, the Class 1 containers to be exported were loaded onto trucks in BATUS and then transhipped to rail assets for the ten-day journey to Becancour.

Concurrent activity included calling forward all remaining vehicles and freight to be exported within BATUS for loading to commercial road hauliers, ready for their (3436 km) journey to Becancour.

Capt Mark Utley RLC chaired a port planning meeting in Becancour with representatives from Societe du Parc Industriel et Portuaire de Becancour, Quebec Stevedores Ltd, Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), CFIA and BATUS shipping agent Guy Tombs LTD. Our colleagues from 4 Canadian Forces Movement Control Unit attend the meeting as they play a crucial role in obtaining the approved import licenses.

Four days prior to the vessels’ arrival, the main body deployed, which comprised of a further two

Ex PRAIRIE TRANSPORTER

By Sgt Stephen Turner (CGT-BATUS Transport & Movement)

Movement Controllers (MC), four Vehicle Support Specialists (VSS), two Recovery Mechanics (RM) and an Ammunition Technician (AT).

After crossing Canada, rail and road assets loaded with the export equipment arrived into Becancour looking rather worse for wear. The team worked tirelessly in temperatures of -30°C to prepare everything for the ship’s arrival.

Ploughing its way through thick ice, the MV EDDYSTONE assisted by two powerful tugs docked in Becancour on 6 Feb. Once the go ahead was given, the GAER accompanied by ATs from British and Canadian military boarded the vessel to begin discharging the ammunition. The container twist locks had frozen to the ship’s deck.

BP Railway Services equipped with high pressure hot water guns cleared the locks setting the containers free. With the last of the Class 1 loaded to the BATUS train, the VSS and stevedores offloaded all remaining cargo. Some vehicles destined for Sunny Point in US had experienced damage which we later discovered had been inflicted by an eight-day force ten gale on the North Atlantic crossing.

8 The MV EDDYSTONE finally berths at the port and is quickly locked into place by the frozen St Lawrence River

The full discharge and loading was complete within eight hours which was testament to the efforts of the VSS, stevedores and RM. Large numbers of vehicles were non-starters due to frozen fuel and vehicle parts. The MV EDDYSTONE departed two days ahead of schedule.

The following two days saw all remaining import cargo cleared from the port by civilian hauliers for the return journey across Canada to BATUS. BATUS consistently strives to achieve excellent value for money, which requires us to employ full emphasis on the forward planning. With previous moves having experienced delays due to trains frozen to tracks, derailments and harsh weather conditions effecting hauliers and the cargo, it is vital to remain flexible and proactive.

Overall, a long distance SLoC was successfully executed. The endproduct is successful exercises on the prairies of Alberta, the best location to train the UK’s Reaction Force.

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THE SUSTAINER | EXERCISE

By Cpl Matthews

73 TRAINING SQUADRON RLC - DEFENCE LOGISTICS SCHOOL

Exercise CHALLENGER is the highlight of The RLC’s Vehicle Support Specialist (VSS) Class One course. Set within the context of a realistic scenario it involves the management and resupply of Battle Group vehicles.

73 Trg Squadron, with attachments from VSS and the Comms Tp of 17 Regt RLC, deployed to Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA) on 25 Feb 2018. The five-day exercise was designed to instil the robust and knowledgeable mind-set required of VSS section commanders and test them in a variety of trade tasks in an operational deployment. The advance party deployed a few days prior to prepare vehicles from the Training Uplift Fleet (TUF) including a variety of AFVs, B and C vehicles and to set up exercise control on SPTA. Having been given their orders by the instructors, the students conducted a recce of their chosen location, Quebec Barn, and completed a logistical estimate for the deployment; a real test of planning skills, trade knowledge and C2 for the section commanders. The main body deployed from SMC Marchwood in convoy to SPTA ready to establish a vehicle replenishment section at Quebec Barn. Located to the east of Warminster, the course was under the watchful eye of senior instructor SSgt Marcus Collings.

The SI was instantly impressed, but did see the funny side when the convoy got geographically challenged on SPTA. The exercise package took the troops through their paces with live vehicle receipts and issues, including CES and BOWMAN accounting checks. The exercise required students to convert challenging theory into practical success. The exercise also included a Demo Force (DEMFOR), operating as a section, role playing a Battle Group unit with instructors representing an Armoured Inf Battle Group (AIBG) HQ under Sgt Matthews. As the trades WR instructor he leapt at chance to live from his Warrior. Understandable, given the temperature ranged from -1 to -8°C.

Ex CHALLENGER 17

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(RLC Vehicle Support Specialist Class One)

Students were tested in a tactical field conditions role; enduring freezing conditions, high winds and snow. A scenario mirroring one in which a high readiness VSS Section could be deployed was created by the Instructors. The aim was to set the tone of the key role of VSS and the JEF Stored Operational Fleet (SOF) held at Ashchurch for the lead Armoured Infantry Battle Group (AIBG). Following a successful establishment each student encountered a different command scenario and was tested in their ability to control their respective department and be selfsufficient, whilst trying to remain warm. The exercise was a great

8 The RLC VSS Class One redeploys from Quebec barn, SPTA

8 VSS Class One go through vehicle documentation and make their plans

8 Feb 2018 RLC VSS Class One – Ex CHALLENEGR @ ENDEX on SPTA

opportunity to install mission command and test SSgt Collings’ weather morale. The donning of his dual liner resolved this.

The exercise’s main events list had different scenarios and vehicles added this year. One of which was the use of AFVs, which required students to use their training and experience to manage not only the platforms, but a variety of tools, equipment, weapons and radios. Pte Dodds and Pte Roberts from 17 RLC having recently completed their Class 2 gained invaluable experience. Pte Dodds said: “I enjoyed tasks such as camouflaging, maintaining the AFVs in an exercise environment.”

“The exercise was challenging especially with in this type of weather and allows students to operate in a very realistic scenario” added LCpl Limbu, one of the DEMFOR. “The spirit of this exercise was excellent with students and attachments putting in some sterling efforts in some exceptional weather conditions.”

The VSS instructors are already looking forward to deploying on next year’s exercise, which will hopefully be another well supported event with more interactive scenarios.

Congratulations to all the students who successfully passed, and thanks to those from 17 Port & Maritime for the key support to the exercise which remains at the forefront of RLC training delivery in its 25th year.

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EXERCISE | THE SUSTAINER

By 85 Trg Sqn On 10 Jun 2018 23 personnel from 85 Trg Sqn, 25 Trg Regt RLC deployed on Ex TIGER STAR. They made the 16-hour trip to Drei Muehlem Lodge in Wertach, in Bavaria, with the aim of carrying out hill walking, mountain biking and rock climbing in the German Alps.

Arriving hoping to see the sunshine, we were met by rain, which remained for the first two days of activities. Thankfully the weather improved towards the end of the week. We were put through our paces during the activities with some pushed out of their comfort zones, none more so than Sgt Gelling, one of our MTB instructors who was the first to go over the handle bars of his bike!

Hill walking led by Sgt Kemp was a continuous five-mile climb to the summit off REUTERWATTE (Peak 1541m) and then a five-mile trek down to the finish. The route down, was challenging due to the wet conditions and saw many sliding down the mountain, thankfully without injury. Cpl Stephenson led the rock climbing with several climbs

Ex TIGER STAR

varying in difficulty from easy to severe. These were attempted by all of us with mixed success, some making it to the top, while others faltered in their attempts only two feet from the ground!

Our busy schedule of courses through the year does not allow us much time so the week proved to be great opportunity to get the Sqn together and to say farewell to a few of the Sqn personnel: Our 2IC, Capt Macca McHugh is posted back

Op CATAN

By Capt Luke Edwards In early 2018, the opportunity arose for a troop commander from 10 QOGLR to deploy to Mogadishu, Somalia on Operation CATAN. The successful applicant would deploy as a member of the 42-strong United Nations (UN) Field Mission embedded into the UN Support Office Somalia (UNSOS). With acting rank and limited options for deployment, it was exactly what I had been waiting for, so in Apr 2018 I deployed.

Operation CATAN is focused on providing Combat Support Systems (CSS) training to the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) and supporting UNSOS in the delivery of their mandate. I am employed as the MA to the Chief of Service Delivery (CSD), with the service delivery pillar within UNSOS being

8 Capt Edwards in Dhobley

responsible for providing CSS support to both AMISOM and UN organisations within south central Somalia. In my role I have been closely involved in the planning and provision of this support and have been able to develop many professional competencies in a slightly more adverse environment.

Most notably I have been involved in the co-ordination of the Water and Environment Initiative

8 Our mountain bikers enjoying the German rain

to 13 Regt; Sgt Smudge Smith moves to 27 Regt on promotion to SSgt and Cpl Stevo Stephenson moves to 4MED. We welcome the incoming Sqn 2IC Capt P Alcorn.

Now that the Sqn has re-charged its batteries we are ready to receive those selected for promotion on their WO, SNCO and JNCO CLM Pt1 courses.

(WET) set up to deal with the challenging environmental issues in Somalia. This UNSOS initiative is focused on the installation of water and waste treatment plants for all UN locations across south central Somalia, in addition to drilling boreholes to enable AMISOM to be self-sufficient in forward operating base locations. The co-ordination of these projects on behalf of CSD is a significant focus.

During the first three months of my deployment I have travelled to several locations within Somalia and have been required to ensure that all reporting to CSD is accurate. With a great deal of political interest and money invested in projects and their support, the responsibility and challenges have been far greater than anything I have experienced to date. Working within a UN construct has been extremely rewarding and is something I would recommend to any junior officer looking for something slightly different.

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THE SUSTAINER | CORPS OPEN DAY

Corps Open Day celebr

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CORPS OPEN DAY | THE SUSTAINER

rates RLC 25

On Sat 7 Jul, the Princess Royal Barracks at Deepcut threw open its doors to the public to mark 25 years of The Royal Logistic Corps. It was a fun filled day for all the family which included a special display by the Silver Stars Parachute Display Team, the Party in the Park evening concert, cart rides, a funfair, live music, craft stalls and various live sports.

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THE SUSTAINER | EXERCISE Ex CATAMARAN 18 was a Combined Joint Expeditionary Force (CJEF) Exercise, focusing on joint maritime operations alongside our French Allies.

The exercise took place in the Quiberon region in the Bay of Biscay between 30 May and 17 Jun. I was fortunate enough to be attached to X-Ray Company, 45 Commando, ahead of my All Arms Commando Course in Sep 2018.

Being attached to the Royal Marines meant I was able to gain exposure to those who I hope to sustain in the future within the Commando Logistic Regiment (CLR).

This exercise provided an excellent opportunity for me to witness first-hand how the Royal Marines operate in the field. It also allowed me to understand the different trades within the Corps that are not obvious to the untrained eye. X-Ray Company comprised of 2 Close Combat Troops, a Fire Support Group, Recce Troop and the Company Headquarters. Supporting the Coy from ship was 539 Assault Squadron who operated the Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) and Inflatable Raiding Craft (IRC) which give the Royal Marines their unique amphibious capability.

Prior to the tactical exercise, the Coy conducted numerous ‘wader drills’ which included LCAC, IRC and CH47 embarkation and disembarkation both in a tactical and non-tactical scenario. This time also allowed the Coy to be exposed to the various French vehicles and capabilities that would be working alongside us

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Ex CATAMARAN 18

By Lt R Oxborough RLC 4 Regt RLC

throughout the exercise. This was demonstrated to a number of high profile personalities including the First Sea Lord and Brigade Commander alongside their French counter-parts.

‘‘

This exercise provided an excellent opportunity for me to witness first-hand how the Royal Marines operate in the field

The first two days of the tactical exercise saw me being immersed into one of the Close Combat Troops as a rifleman, so I could fully understand how the Section Commanders and Marines operate.

The Tactical Exercise began with 8 Troops disembarking an LCAC

8 CH47 and LCAC alongside RFA Lyme Bay the Coy breaking onto the Quiberon Peninsula by attacking a Fort and subsequently advancing to contact up the Peninsula to clear the area of enemy forces. The Coy was then conducted an aviation move 30km in land to Meucon training area where the Coy cleared the area of enemy forces through an initial deliberate attack and subsequent advance to contact. After this phase was complete I moved into the Company HQ and shadowed the Company Commander where I was shown around 9 Brigade d'Infanterie de Marine (BIME). For the final phase of the exercise, the Coy returned to RFA Lyme Bay to act as the Brigade Aviation Reserve, where I acted as the Coy 2IC during a company raid to conclude the tactical exercise.

This exercise provided me with a unique insight into how the Royal Marines not only operate in the field, but also how they liaise with foreign Nations’ Armed Forces, and the different UK Armed Forces Services which no traditional recruiting visit would provide.

It also allowed me to gain an understanding of what is expected of CLR when the Royal Marines deploy on operations.

Amphibious operations are not the Army’s forte, which is why I feel it was essential that if I aspire to serve within CLR in the future I have extremely valuable prior experience to call upon.

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EXERCISE | THE SUSTAINER Exercise ARMY SUSTAINER 18 (Ex AS) took place on 19 May 2018 at the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham.

Ex ARMY SUSTAINER is organised by 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC and is the largest single service field catering and culinary arts competition within the Army.

This year over 200 Army chefs from regular and reserve formations competed alongside each other, as well as affiliated industry teams from Sodexo and Butlins. An Army Catering Corps Association team and two International Army teams from the Danish Logistics Regiment and United States 16th Sustainment Brigade also competed. This created a diverse range of skills and techniques.

Visitors included Maj Gen Capps, Comd RC, Maj Gen Crackett, D Reserves, Maj Gen Munro, ACDS RC and members of the French and US armies looking to increase future participation.

The footprint for the event has grown significantly over the years and this year was without exception the biggest yet. A total of 28 Operational Field Catering Systems (OFCS) were provided by 167 Catering Support Regiment and a further 18 sets arrived with Regimental teams for the field catering challenge class.

A total of ten culinary classes were structured throughout the day's competition schedule. Each class was based on a realistic defence catering scenario and judged against a strict marking criteria designed to challenge and test individual and team competitors in their operational capability and

Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 18

By WO1 (SSM) Samantha Barton

higher culinary craft skills. It’s a fantastic training opportunity to develop the young chefs and profile the diverse capability of the chef CEG to our commanders and wider trade groups.

The field catering classes are hugely popular and as well as showcasing innovative dishes and cooking methods, team work and leadership skills were put to the test. In the improvised team challenge, teams of three were given three hours to prepare, cook and serve a two-course meal for 20 soldiers using improvised cooking equipment and methods.

Teams received a mystery box of rations which included ten unprepared pigeons, a whole salmon, basic larder ingredients along with seasonal fruits and vegetables. Guest Celebrity judge, restauranteur and TV presenter, Simon Rimmer joined us for the day and was particularly impressed by

8 Celebrity Chef Simon Rimmer discussing judging results

the inventive and capable kitchen builds, ranging from dustbin ovens, filing cabinet ovens, metal sheet stove tops and beer keg stoves.

Among some of the amazing dishes produced were roasted salmon parcels, pigeon momo's, curries and some fantastic mouth watering desserts.

The two static classes; 'open celebration cake' and 'open centre piece' were designed around the Royal Wedding theme and the 25th Anniversary of The RLC. Each competitor displayed an edible entry, demonstrating creativity and professional sugar craft techniques. Particular favourites amongst the judges were a highly detailed gold wedding carriage and a 3D portrait of HRH Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and HRH the Duchess of Sussex.

Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 18 was a huge success which amplified the true passion, commitment and valuable capabilities of the chef trade. Particular thanks go to all Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 18 sponsors who supported the event; RHQ The RLC, Harrogate Water, the Worshipful Company of Cooks, The Craft Guild of Chefs, Bridor UK, Cottesmore Station and Butlins.

Also, the Regiment is extremely grateful to everyone who generously gave up their time to take part.

8 Cpl Babooram with his submission for the Open Centre Piece

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THE SUSTAINER | THE RLC FOUNDATION

On 16 Jul 2018, the RLC Foundation hosted corporate members and colleagues from the armed forces on Ex LOG SAFARI. The exercise is organised by Capt Hattie Bennett, the SO3 Officers from the Corps Recruiting Liaison Office at RHQ The RLC. Held on the Deepcut training area, stands showcase a range of RLC trades and skills were set up by officers and soldiers from 621 Sqn 11 EOD Regt, 47 Sqn and 63 Sqn 13 AAS Regt, 59 Sqn 29 Regt and RLC Chefs from 26 Engr Regt.

The exercise is primarily designed to give officer cadets, potential officers and soldiers on Phase 1 training an insight into careers in

Ex LOG SAFARI The RLC. For RLC Foundation corporate members - and for the civilian contractors and civil servants who provide services to the Corps, such as those embedded in the teams at the MoD Defence Equipment and Support procurement organisation at Abbey Wood - the event is a great opportunity to see their input in action. It also gives industry the opportunity to gain an insight to what the military has to offer and its unique skills.

RLC Foundation director, Lt Col (Retd) Alan Woods said the event adds a new dimension to the Foundation’s ongoing commitment of bringing together logistics professionals from industry, army and academia. “Participants had the unique opportunity to visit different stands where RLC skills and trades were on display.

Serving soldiers discussed the individual training and skills that they require to be able to perform their roles in both operational and peacetime environments. The trades on display included bomb disposal, catering, supply and distribution, air dispatch, postal and courier and movement control.”

View sharing Prior to visiting the stands, The RLC Foundation’s chairman, Maj Gen (Retd) David Shouesmith, welcomed the Foundation’s guests.

He asked them to think, while they viewed the stands and listened to the units’ presentations, how the skills and expertise within The RLC could benefit their organisations and whether, in their view, The RLC had the sort of attitudes and processes needed to be competitive when bidding for civilian logistics contracts. He asked them to share their views with the Foundation.

Visitors began by learning about

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THE RLC FOUNDATION | THE SUSTAINER the equipment that is used to cater for large numbers of troops in the field and watched Sgt Thompson’s team preparing lunch in their 40-man field kitchen. He then moved on to demonstrate how Army Chefs can also improvise cooking facilities in the field. His desert solution of a sand filled ammo box soaked with diesel with two old oven shelves for pans to rest on demonstrated that necessity is the mother of all invention. For the data inventory management specialists among the guests, seeing an actual ten-man and individual 24-hour ration pack broken down, put words and numbers they only see on a spreadsheet into perspective.

At 11 EOD Regt’s bomb disposal stand, guests had the opportunity to trying on a Mk6 Bomb suit weighing 35Kg. With the ambient temperature pushing 30˚C it brought home the physical challenges faced and personal qualities required to be ammunition technicians within The RLC’s unexploded ordnance disposal teams. Guests operated a bomb disposal robot, while on display was an array of simulated explosives and inert ordnance which highlighted the vast range of knowledge the EOD teams must possess.

Following an excellent curry lunch prepared by The RLC Chefs in their field kitchen, the group moved by bus to visit The RLC’s ‘express delivery’ operation. Captain Todd and his team from 47 (Air Dispatch) Sqn explained the training they must go through to enable them to drop supplies and equipment to our forces located anywhere in the world and food, water and emergency supplies as part of disaster relief operations. On display were loads ranging from a few jerry cans of water, to a large fuel bowser ready to be dispatched by parachute to waiting troops.

Movement control The Fuel and General Transport Troop from 63 Sqn, 13 AASR demonstrated the range of vehicles it uses to re-supply the British Army’s air assault brigade in the field. The Oshkosh tactical fuel tanker proved to be a

‘‘

The Fuel and General Transport Troop from 63 Sqn, 13 AASR demonstrated the range of vehicles it uses to re-supply the British Army’s air assault brigade in the field. The Oshkosh tactical fuel tanker proved to be a real hit with the guests and a photo call opportunity

real hit with the guests and a photo call opportunity.

The supply chain experts in the group took full advantage to talk with The RLC supply specialists from 13 ASSR. The supply trade

sits between the end users and the suppliers. Guests from MOD Abbey Wood, who procure all the materials that sustain the Army and feed them into the military supply chain were particularly interested to learn about the day to day issues that concerned our supply specialists.

The final port of call was to learn about movement control from 29 Regt and the capabilities of The RLC’s Postal and Courier operators.

Not many of our guests realised that The RLC’s Movement Controllers are responsible for organising the movement of all Army units to and from operations and exercises around the world. In terms of logistics this can range from simple to highly complex.

The group was told the movers are always first to arrive and the last to leave.

Experience they have gained over the last few years with operations in the Middle East and the size of the undertakings dwarf anything their civilian counterparts have experience of.

Feedback from the corporate and military community who attended Ex LOG SAFARI has been extremely positive. Most never see how their input or involvement with the Army and The RLC translates in real terms. Those questioned said the day was most valuable in terms of putting what they do into perspective. Overall it was a very enjoyable and informative day and the Foundation would like to thank Capt Bennett and the participating RLC Regiments for making it possible.

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THE SUSTAINER | VETERANS

RAOC/RLC The Vehicle Specialist Fellowship Branch of The RLC and RAOC Associations is 30 years old. On the formation of The RLC in 1993 our committee decided to embrace the newly formed Corps within our fold as we felt it was our future and that The RLC would still deal with vehicle supply.

The Branch has a great esprit de corps and is celebrated within our activities throughout the year. These activities range from an annual 100mile walk, sponsored golf match in Belgium (the old Olen Vehicle Depot), Christmas drinks in Ashchurch and our biggest event;

our Annual Reunion. This year it will be held in a 4-star hotel in Bolton where we expect attendance of over 221. This year we will have a vehicle display by the Military Vehicle Trust, who will be showing off

8 Our biennial visit to Hong Kong some of their fleet of historic vehicles.

We organise a bi-annual trip to Hong Kong. We celebrate with the Chinese friends and colleagues who worked alongside us prior to the Colony's handover. We consider them to be a sub-branch as they were mostly cap badged RAOC Vehicle Specialist and various RCT trades.

If you think you would like to join us please visit our website at: http://www.vehspec.co.uk/ The benefits are comradeship, keeping in touch, providing and seeking advice on many matters and of course meeting up with old friends and making a lot of new ones.

8 Participants at our annual golf competition held in Belgium

RASC/RCT

THE GOLDEN COCKEREL OF MUENSTER

In 1993, while based in Muenster, the CO of 8 Regt RLC, Lt Col Tony Barton, asked whether it was possible to creating a replica of the 14th Century, Golden Cockerel of Muenster. This celebrated antique was used when dignitaries such as members of the Dutch and British Royal Families, visited Muenster before signing the Golden Book in the City's famous Hall of Peace.

The links between the British Forces and Stadt Muenster were particularly good, the Ober Burgermeister was asked whether this might be possible. Herr Ober Burgermeister Jorg Twenhoven, liked the idea and said that it was.

The Golden Cockerel was due to be taken to Nueremburg to Master Silversmith, Herr Klinkhammer for 50

8 The Princess Royal about to sign the Muenster Golden Book

maintenance and cleaning. While it was there he made the replica.

It took several weeks and when completed the project was heralded as a big success. The replica Cockerel was held in the 8 Regt RLC Officer’s Mess and was used to welcome important guests during formal dinner nights. On the

occasion of the Muenster Carnival, when the Carnival Prince and his entourage would visit the Regiment, the Prince would also be invited to drink from the vessel.

The 8 Regt RLC, Silver Cockerel was paid for by the Mess and is a symbol of Muenster and the long and friendly association between the Regiment and the City. The Cockerel represents the RASC, RCT and RLC and marks the 34 years that 8 Regt served with distinction in Muenster.

Since the Regiment's disbandment in 1998, the Silver Cockerel of Muenster, has been held in RHQ The RLC Central Officers Mess, Deepcut.

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MUSEUM | THE SUSTAINER The RLC and its Forming Corps have long been associated with sporting success and this is as true today as it was 100 years ago. The RLC Museum looks through its archive to highlight some famous sporting personalities who served in our Forming Corps and other significant sporting events.

Henry Cooper (on the left) with his twin brother George, both served in the RAOC as National Servicemen in 4 Battalion at Deepcut, in the mid 1950s.

Museum Musings

By Maj (Retd) Simon Walmsley Manager, The Royal Logistic Corps Museum

THE ARMY FOOTBALL CHALLENGE CUP

4 Trade Training Battalion RAOC made a point of recruiting boxers, earning the nickname “The Boxers Battalion” and would sweep the board at Army boxing championships. Boxers were excused normal duties, given extra rations and spent most of the day in the gym, rather than completing normal training.

LCpl Cooper was often given a weekend pass which allowed him to take part in amateur fights in London.

He turned professional shortly after leaving the Army and went on to win the British, Commonwealth and European heavyweight titles.

Bobby Charlton and Duncan Edwards also both served in the RAOC and were stationed at CAD Nesscliffe near Shrewsbury. They were also both given weekend passes allowing them to continue playing football for Manchester United. Duncan Edwards is reputed to have played more than 180 games for both the Army and Manchester United during his National Service.

The two were known as “Busby Babes” as they were in the team managed by Matt Busby from the late 1940s and throughout the 1950s, when youth football brought younger players through to the senior team.

Tragically Duncan Edwards, on the right in this picture, was killed in the Munich air disaster, whilst Bobby Charlton survived and went on to be part of the winning world cup team in 1966.

The Army Football Challenge Cup was instituted in 1888 the same year that the Commissariat & Transport Staff and the Commissariat & Transport Corps combined to form the Army Service Corps (ASC), which in 1965 went on to become the Royal Corps of Transport. This football competition was once considered a national event and takes place at the Army stadium in Aldershot.

Shortly before WW1, in Apr 1914 the final was attended by His Majesty King George V accompanied by Her Majesty The Queen and the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VIII. Playing in the final were the ASC from Woolwich and the 1st Battalion Hampshire Regiment from Colchester, who were the favourites.

With 20,000 spectators crowded into a stadium built to house 12,000 and many thousands of others unable to enter the grounds, the ASC went on to went on to win 1-0.

Lt Gen Douglas Haig was present when HM The Queen presented the Warwick Vase to Lt Col Dodson ASC, the CO of ASC Woolwich. Since then the ASC/RCT went on to win the cup in 1923 beating 2nd Bn QOCH, in 1936 beating Trg Bn RE and in 1972 beating The School of Signals.

The RLC has continued this illustrious tradition, winning the Army Football Challenge Cup on a number of occasions and long may this continue.

The RLC Museum has been doing rather well from its appeals in The Sustainer for objects and items missing from its collection. The veteran community in particular has been excellent in coming forward with objects and on the recent Corps Day, an early set of collar dogs were handed in, which helped complete an ACC mess kit.

We also seek the following please: • WW2 era Army Catering Corps and Pioneer Corps Uniforms, badges or booklets.

• Archive documents: diaries, memoires and photographs related to our Forming Corps’ activity in: Gulf War 1, the Falklands War, Korea, Suez Crisis, Kenya (Mau Mau uprising) Oman, Palestine, Aden and the Malayan Emergency.

• A deactivated SA80, with certificate - although we are willing to pay for this item if necessary.

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THE SUSTAINER | ASSOCIATION TRUST ACCOUNTS REPORT

The RLC Association Trust Annual Report 2017 (Abridged) The regimental activities of The RLC are funded through private (non-public) funds held within “The RLC Charity”, THE RLC ASSOCIATION TRUST (Registered Charity No 1024036). These charitable funds comprise contributions from serving members of The RLC via the Day’s Pay Scheme (DPS) as well as investments providing income and growth.

The Master General of Logistics as the titular Head of Corps chairs the Trust Fund supported by a board of Trustees representing the serving Corps, RLC Veteran community and four predecessor Corps (RCT, RAOC, RPC and ACC). The Forming Corps donated the Trust’s initial capital which having been invested has been the Corps’ financial underpinning for the last 25 years.

The objects of the Trust are the promotion of the efficiency of The Royal Logistic Corps, support to fraternity and the relief of need for eligible personnel.

Each year the Corps reports on the status of these funds.

ANNUAL REPORT 2017 (ABRIDGED) The Trustees remain confident that the objectives of the Trust, namely, welfare and benevolence support for its past and present members and the efficiency of the Corps, are being met. Also that the plans for the Trust are sound and well placed to meet the current and future needs of The RLC. The Trust activities include public benefit and community engagement wherever possible.

Structure, governance and management The key challenges are to maintain income levels to support the full range of Trust responsibilities against a continuing backdrop of a reducing military strength and income from the DPS which for 2017 totalled £1.13M. Reviews of the Armed Forces will inevitably continue to reduce and change the structures of a number of Regular and Reserve units and re-locate others. The Corps’ regimental home is also re-locating by 2020.

Investing for the future All of the Trust’s investments are held in the Armed Forces Common Investment Fund; the investment performance continues to be strong and ahead of expectations; meeting fully objectives to grow the investments further. Despite the planned reductions in the size of the Corps, the Trust’s funds remain sufficient to support without detriment to Corps efficiency and those in need. Expenditure is being well managed with the value, as at 31 Dec 17, of the investments within the Trust is £38.4M. Public benefit Responsibilities extend to the wider community; the Corps Open Day (provided free of charge to the public), The RLC Museum (which received a grant of £100K) and other heritage including close links with the Tower of London and our four dedicated Livery Companies.

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The Corps funds Freedom Parades, the Silver Stars Parachute Display Team, Bands and Corps of Drums which perform at a wide range of public events providing closer ties with society in general. The RLC Foundation promotes professional excellence within the Corps.

Objectives and activities The Trust supports the activities of The RLC the largest Corps in the Army totalling some 11,000 Regular and 4,000 Reserve soldiers; funding and managing the fraternal activities of Predecessor Corps across some 80 branches. The budget in 2017 to support all Corps activities was £2.07M. Regular and veterans of The RLC, Predecessor Corps and trained RLC Reservists are eligible for benevolence support. Communication with the Corps and our associations is through the RLC Website, ‘The Sustainer’, the ‘RLC Foundation Review’ plus a total of 10 Newsletters at a total cost for publications, including distribution, of £69.5K. Grants totalling some £396K were made to support sport and adventurous training including shared use of the adventurous training lodge (Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre) in the Lake District.

Achievement and performance Support to Benevolence represents the greatest single financial outlay of the Trust. The Army Benevolent Fund received a donation of £100K in 2017 and 1092 grants totalling £592K were made. All Regular members of The RLC contributing to the DPS continue to be covered for accidental death or injury whilst off duty. Thankfully there were no payments in 2017. The DPS also provides the Medical Discharge Grant Scheme; in 2017, £60K was paid to 138 eligible medically discharged soldiers to assist with their enforced return to civilian life; an average grant of £440 per claimant, based on £60 per year of service to a maximum of 10 years.

Efficiency of the Corps The Trust continues to support the RLC Staff Band and Corps of Drums plus Reserve Bands, Corps of Pipes and Drums which play an increasing role in community engagement and perform at charitable and public events. The Central Sergeants’ Mess, received funding of £23.5K. The Headquarters Officers’ Mess, to which officers pay specifically an additional 50% of a Day’s Pay, spent £77K. Grants continue to be made to assist units and formations in maintaining RLC traditions and heritage and fostering community engagement.

Summary: Income from the DPS, investments (including growth), donations and subscriptions totalled £2.82M. Expenditure across the full range of Corps activities was £2.45M.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BICESTER CO: Lt Col N Crew OBE • Adjt: Capt C Campbell • RSM: WO1 Z Sharif 2018 has proved to be a particularly busy year for 1 Regiment with a whole host of sporting achievements gained among the preparation and deployment of 12 CS Sqn on Ex WARRIORS CRAFT in BATUS and the majority of the regiment on Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 in Oman.

The Regt hosted an intersquadron boxing competition in Apr which saw a number of novice boxers fight it out in an outstanding display of courage and discipline.

2 CS Sqn ended up taking the overall win but individuals from all squadrons were selected to represent the Regt at the Corps boxing event where they again showed their tireless dedication and hard work.

The Regimental Golf Society held the inaugural regimental Open at Magnolia Park Golf Club in Jun which saw the officers, sergeants and Cpls Mess’s go head to head in a Ryder Cup style match play competition.

The Cpls’ Mess, bolstered by the regiment’s ORs came out as worthy winners. The regimental team also entered the Corps Championships in May and won the overall team prize for the first time in its history.

side competition. The final was against a strong 10 QOGLR side in a very tight game with 1 Regt winning by one run. The team continues to train under direction of WO2 Zeshan Khan and is planning to add The RLC T20 Competition to its list of wins next season.

The Rhinos also had a successful debut 17/18 season reaching the final in both the Midlands Rugby Union League 3 and the final in The RLC Briggs Cup, unfortunately losing to a very strong 9 Regiment team.

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The regiment’s triathletes have enjoyed success throughout the year with consistent top 10 finishes and a total of 22 prizes, the highlight of which was being named RLC Champions 2018

Cpl Herbert and 2Lt Moore both won individual prizes, with the former being the Individual Handicap Champion Golfer of the competition.

The regimental football team also had a successful season reaching the quarter finals in both the Army Cup and League Cup. Some great performances on the pitch throughout the season saw six players selected to represent RLC Corps football, of which four also represented at Army U23 level.

The cricket team found success winning The RLC Inter Unit six-a-

In athletics, Sgt Robinson and Pte Weaver from 2 CS Sqn saw themselves selected for the Corps team resulting in podium finishes for both in the Army Championships. Pte James from 23 GS Sqn also won the javelin throw at the UK South Athletics Championships with a Team GB qualifying distance.

The Regt's triathletes have enjoyed success throughout the year with consistent top 10 finishes and a total of 22 prizes, the highlight of which was being named RLC Champions 2018.

8 The cricket team found success winning The RLC Inter Unit six-a-side competition

A number of fledgling teams also entered various competitions. The RLC Clay Shooting Championships brought success for Pte Hall who won the U23 trophy. The sailing team entered the 2018 Seaview Regatta and the hockey team competed in the Bari Cup, placing as runners up in the Festival Shield and finishing sixth out of 14 teams.

The Regt also had some great successes at The RLC Sports Awards with Maj Bruce Ekman being awarded Sports Personality of the Year, Pte Miles Cawood being awarded Young Sportsman of the Year and Capt Sean Twine receiving The RLC Special Award for contributions to skiing.

Among all of this sporting prowess, there has clearly been lot of hard work happening back in camp. A special mention should be made to all those not featured in this article but who are consistently involved in sport, and in particular, for those who have worked hard on the vehicle park and managing the accounts throughout this time to ensure we have a successful deployment on Ex SAIF SAREEA 3.

8 To keep updated with what the Regt has been up to please follow it on Facebook

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

3 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col S Cooke • Adjt: Capt A Thompson • RSM: WO1 M Robertson 2018 has seen no let up in the workload, with 3 Regiment committing quality resources towards community engagement efforts.

A number of flagship parades have underpinned a growing community profile in Abingdon and wider Oxfordshire. The Abingdon Remembrance Parade and Armed Forces Day Parade in Wantage provided an excellent public spectacle with the highest standards of dress, discipline and drill.

Led by 3 Regt, the parades showcased the Army and local CCFs, schools and clubs. The CO opened Armed Forces week in Oxford with the City Mayor and Lord Lieutenant and subsequently, the 2IC was present at the signing of the Armed Forces Community Covenant.

Less high profile, but just as important, are the relationships that 3 Regt has developed with local schools; Larkmead Secondary School and Cothill, a preparatory school, have both been courted with highly successful ‘look at life’ events.

Larkmead has received a delegation of JNCOs to deliver a WW1 workshop culminating in a Q&A session. The JNCOs focused on explaining the similarities and differences between the soldier experience from back then and now and the importance of remembrance and commemoration.

3 Regt has also developed ties to Abingdon School CCF and is assisting it with its training programme. The highlight of low level engagement was the invitation of around 250 year six pupils from across Oxfordshire to Abingdon Airfield to form a commemorative poppy shape on the hottest day of the year so far. 3 Regt soldiers were swamped by the pupils for whom the highlight was seeing the Regt’s vehicles, weapons, equipment and trying out rations and radios.

Public duties On 14 Jun 2018, 21 Public Duties Reinforcement (PDR) Sqn formed up 54

comprising of 21 General Support Sqn and individual augmentees from across 3 Regt RLC. Having been put through their paces completing a gruelling threeweek training package under the watchful eye of the Irish Guards, 21 PDR Sqn deployed to Wellington Barracks in order to complete its fit for role Inspection.

Receiving high praise from London District for the overall turnout, bearing and drill of all on parade, the Sqn was approved to take over public duties and anticipation set in prior to the mount of the first guard.

The Sqn has now deployed to Royal Artillery Barracks, Woolwich, which it will call home through the summer. 21 PDR Sqn mounted its first guard on 2 Jul at Windsor Castle, with the first Queen’s Guard at St James Palace, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London on 14 Jul. 21 PDR Sqn will continue its

8 21 Public Duties Reinforcement (PDR) Sqn formed up comprising of 21 General Support Sqn and individual augmentees from across 3 Regt RLC

responsibility to provide the guard at the prestigious locations of St James Palace, Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and the Tower of London through the summer period and into Sept.

Charity Ride Members of 3 Regt RLC took on the challenge of cycling 100 miles in the Prudential Ride London at the end of Jul. Capt Bruce Yell, Capt Amanda Game and WO1 Gusta were joined by Maj Lee Rickard from the Land Warfare Centre.

The aim of the challenge was to raise funds for The Army Benevolent Fund and raise awareness of the National Charity of the British Army and what is does for soldiers, veterans and their families in times of need.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col C I Hanson • Adjt: Capt M J Ruocco • RSM: WO1 D Phillips 4 Regiment prides itself on embodying the 4 E’s: Education, Employability, Excellence and Enjoyment.

Despite being a busy Regt with multiple exercises and operational commitments, there is always time for these 4 E’s and for personnel to get away and have fun, whether it be through sport or AT expeditions.

Ex AGUILA ESPANIOLA After a busy spring term, 4 Regt swapped the snow-capped peaks of the Alps for the mountains of the Costa Blanca to conduct Ex AGUILA ESPANIOLA, a climbing AT Exped. The week began with the theory and by the end of the expedition, students were able to competently lead climbs and abseil back down.

With the Regt having its own rock climbing wall at Dalton Barracks, this is expected to be the start of a big rock climbing scene at 4 Regt.

Before the Regt set off again on more adventurous training, there was time for its boxers to enter the ring. After a competitive Regimental Boxing Championships, the boxers continued to train hard, preparing for the Corps Championships.

4 Regt entered five boxers and after some hard-fought bouts, both Pte Bayliss and LCpl Howard made it to the finals, with LCpl Howard going on to take the Women’s Welterweight Championship belt.

This took her to the Army Championships where, representing the Regt and now the Corps, she won again to become the Army Women’s Welterweight Champion.

Ex EAGLES CHALLENGE The next AT package took the Regt to the Bavarian Alps for Ex EAGLES CHALLENGE. 53 travelled to Southern Germany where they were able to gain qualifications in kayaking, canoeing, climbing or hiking.

Kayakers and canoers spent their days on the lakes and rivers surrounding Wertach, while the

climbers headed further south to tackle the cliffs along the border between Germany and Austria.

The hikers racked up the miles, taking in the views on top of the many ridgelines in the area. Before heading back to England, the students had a rest day where they visited Dachau Concentration Camp.

During this time, the 4 Regt shooting team had set their sights on the several operational shooting competitions taking place over the period. The team put in some impressive performances finishing second at the 101X OSC and third at the 12X OSC ensuring they qualified for the Army OSC at Bisley.

Additionally, the two LSW gunners consistently scored highly in the machine gun shoot, as well as the team regularly topping the leader board in the combat snap.

8 Ex EAGLES DRAW - Ex EAGLES DRAW was an LFTT package composed of one week of dismounted ranges on SENTA

Training But it hasn’t all been fun and games.

33 GS Sqn, with troops attached from 4 and 60 CS Sqn, deployed as the Composite Logistic Squadron (CLS) on Ex PRAIRIE STORM to support the KRH BG as part of the CSS Gp led by 4 Bn REME. The CLS was required to operate a functioning Brigade Log RV and manage ration and fuel accounts whilst also providing lift for the remainder of the CSS Gp. This all happened while under a dynamic enemy threat from OPFOR. Most recently, 4 Regt deployed on Ex EAGLES DRAW, an LFTT package composed of one week of dismounted ranges on SENTA where soldiers progressed from individual ranges up to section attacks, followed by a week of mounted ranges at Castle Martin.

Before moving from SENTA to Castle Martin, continuing to work in their sections, soldiers raced over Pen Y Fan in the early hours of the morning.

8 LCpl Howard won the Women’s Welterweight Championship belt

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DISHFORTH CO: Lt Col L Green • Adjt: Capt J R Harris • RSM: WO1 J Sumner A number of 6 Regiment soldiers had the opportunity to attend 150 Regiment’s annual Battle Camp held on the Island of Cyprus in the vicinity of RAF Akrotiri. The group was split into a guard force providing security for the camp on which the Regt was based and a section of troops who were attached to the exercising squadron.

The exercising troops had a varied and interesting package of activities including a two-day range session, a two-day AT Programme and two days of BCS training.

The range package included a wide variety of different shoots on the rifle, pistol and GPMG. These included ACMTs on all weapons followed by moving target ranges and CQB lanes on both the rifle and the pistol.

The adventure training on the exercise included both mountain biking and climbing.

The penultimate stage of the camp was a test exercise which included all of the subjects covered throughout the BCS phase including recce patrols, ambushes, deliberate attacks, building clearances and defensive operations. The exercise culminated in a company level attack on a small village.

The final element of the twoweek camp was a cultural visit to Paphos allowing the troops to unwind and treat themselves to a well earnt local Cypriot meal.

Freedom of Boroughbridge Parade A highlight of this quarter has been the awarding and subsequent acceptance and parade for the Freedom of Boroughbridge.

The honour of the Freedom of Boroughbridge was previously granted to 9 Regiment Army Air Corps during its tenure at Dishforth Airfield. 6 Regt was very fortunate to be awarded the honour after only being in Dishforth for 16 months after moving back from Germany.

The parade and networking events were organised by the Regt’s QM(T) Captain Kurt Roberts.

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8 Freedom of Boroughbridge (2) - 102 Log X Commander Brigadier Jonathon Blair-Tidewell inspects the parade

Lt Oliver Lewis In Serbia Lt Ollie Lewis has been kept busy during his posting as assistant Defence Attaché. As well as the day to day work, he deputises for the Defence Attaché Colonel Fitzgibbon at National Day Receptions or Ministry of Defence events such as defence policy briefings or visits to military units around the country.

He has also been heavily involved in the planning for Ex PLATINUM WOLF 18 (a multinational exercise with participants from ten countries which took place in Jun at a Serbian Army training area).

In Apr, he attended the Final Planning Conference (FPC) for the exercise in Vranje (three hours south of Belgrade) and hosted two officers from 160 Brigade for the week.

Over Easter, Lt Lewis managed to get to the popular Serbian ski resort of Kopaonik (a four-hour drive south of Belgrade), in an attempt to learn

how to ski. He had three days on the slopes with lessons every morning and by the end had nearly mastered parallel skiing.

Lt Lewis flew home on 22 Jun, returning to 6 Regt just in time for the Officers’ Mess Summer Ball.

New Command team On 27 Jun, Lt Col Layla Green assumed command of 6 Regt from departing and promoted Lt Col Tim Crossland. Lt Col Green took over exactly 15 years ago to the week the then Capt Green and Capt Crossland were deployed on Op TELIC 2 as members of 32 Sqn in 3 Regt. The departing selected Colonel Crossland moves into a position within DE&S. Sgt Brogan-Karate Sgt Brogan of 64 Squadron has represented the Army at the Northern Open International Karate championships in Leigh where he was awarded a silver medal. This is just another addition to his medal tally in what has been a fantastic year so far.

More recently he competed at the inter service Karate. He battled his way to a third in the individual competition and second place finish in the team competition.

8 CO's Handover (1) Lt Col Green (centre) and Lt Col Crossland (right) deployed on OP TELIC 2 as captains

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COTTESMORE CO: Lt Col S A Cornell • Adjt: Capt E Duplessis • RSM: WO1 P Jordan The third quarter saw troops from 7 Regiment deploy far and wide to support the wide range of commitments currently held by the Regt.

These ranged from Troop level Collective Training (CT) packages to large scale squadron deployments in order to ensure that the new Battle Craft Syllabus (BCS) is drilled and understood at the lowest level.

Furthermore, the Regt has continuously strived for excellence as it prepared for a heavily committed fourth quarter which will see its vast majority of soldiers deployed on a number of commitments. 68 Sqn will deploy to Kenya, 617 will deploy in support of the Army Staff Ride and 9 Sqn will support the divisional show of force exercise on the home bank.

Concurrently, the regiment performed exceptionally in a number of arenas ensuring successes along the way and continuing to keep the flag flying high. The Regimental Football Team led the way as they continued their winning ways, winning nearly everything they entered.

Performing exceptionally well as a full team, it went on to become the first army team in 15 years to win the Division 1 Lincolnshire Services League with a comfortable 3-0 win over RAF Honnington.

The team continued this winning streak to the very end where it narrowly missed out on the final trophy of the season in Dishforth, just missing out on a competition clean-sweep. With sterling performances throughout the season and a number of appearances for the Army team, Cpl Wilkinson and LCpl Woolley were both crowned the player of the season for Army Senior Football and Army U23’s Football respectively.

Not to be outdone, the Regimental Cricket Team was starting to lay the gauntlet in the early stages of the season. Quickly winning a number of matches with an inexperienced team, it proved that hard work and determination will have its just reward. Entering

The RLC Corps T20 competition, the team made light work of all the opponents to be crowned The RLC Corps T20 champions for the second year running.

Throughout the year, a number of smaller teams and individuals produced sterling performances, displaying the sheer talent that is within the regiment and proving to all that 7 Regt is the regiment to beat.

The road cycling contingent continually proves to be stiff competition as it continuously wins prizes at every event it attends; Pte Leah Eames found her feet quickly on the football pitch and was awarded the young player of the year in her very first season.

Finally, LCpl Gaz Adams became the ‘Keith Seddon’ Matchplay 8 The Regimental Cricket Team was crowned The RLC Corps T20 champions for the second year running

8 The road cycling contingent continuously win prizes at every event it attends

Champion at the Army Golf Championship the very first time he represented the Regt.

Although the Regt has been working tirelessly at ensuring the troops are trained, fit and enthusiastic, there was time available for some fun.

Troops have deployed on a number of Adventure Training (AT) packages, including a particularly rewarding Level 3 package to Poland, where soldiers had the opportunity to test themselves mentally and physically in particularly testing conditions.

Furthermore, the soldiers had the opportunity to conduct a vital defence engagement visit to its sister regiment, 1 Logistic Brigade in Bydgoscz where they strengthened what is a growing relationship.

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULLAVINGTON CO: Lt Col A J C Geary • Adjt: Capt C Hardwick • RSM: WO1 R Vincent It has been another incredibly busy period for 9 Regiment. Jul saw individuals from across the Regt deploy as part of the 104 Brigade Theatre Enabling Group (TEG) on Ex SAIF SAREEA 3, responsible for receiving and holding the vehicles and equipment ready for the main exercise in Sept 2019.

After a delayed start due to force nine winds, the first ships were successfully offloaded and the TEG is now fully established in the Joint Logistic Support Base in Duqm, Oman. The exercise is proving a fantastic opportunity not only to enhance trade skills, but develop a better understanding of working in a joint service and multinational environment with close ties being forged with the local Omani Army and Police Force units.

However, it hasn’t been all work and in true 9 Regt style, sport has continued to play an important part in the daily battle rhythm. Lt Charlie Rees (AGC) has established a TEG football league and Capt Sainsbury is keeping the rugby team at the top of their game with rugby training focusing on a match against the Muscat Rugby Club at the end of August. Finally, Cpl Bradbury arranged for the TEG to support the Ant Middleton (of SAS: Who Dares Wins fame) #getbackonyourfeet campaign for SSAFA, garnering a retweet and comment from the man himself and nearly 50,000 views.

Back home in Buckley Barracks, 66 Fuel and General Transport Sqn have been working hard in preparation for their deployment on Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE in September. In Jun, General Transport Troop deployed to Driffield on Exercise PHOENIX WHEEL. All drivers were put through their paces on a challenging off-road course, as well as practicing their loss of traction and failed ascent drills. They also revised basic soldiering skills, including occupying a tactical harbour area. The team thoroughly 58

enjoyed the exercise, with the more junior soldiers completing their B3-B2 driver upgrade. In July, the troops continued to build experience of off-road and nighttime driving on their CT2 exercise, Ex PHEONIX FLOW, where Bulk Liquids Troop provided real-life and

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A final huge congratulation’s must go to the Regiment’s sportsmen, women and teams who did so well at this year’s RLC Sports Awards

8 Members of the Theatre Enabling Group in regimental t-shirts representing the 10 different units across 104X and the Field Army

exercise support to the Officers’ Petroleum Course final exercise. To cap off a busy month, members of General Transport Troop practised railhead operations in Marchwood – mission rehearsal for the upcoming trip to Norway.

With so many regimental personnel away it is easy to forget the other standing tasks, including the continuous support provided to Op TRENTON. 84 MSS will be welcoming home SSgt Young and his team, back from the six-month deployment in South Sudan, with SSgt McLaughlin taking on the baton. Deployed under the UN banner, providing Med Log support to the Field Hospital, 84 MSS continues to relish the opportunity to once again demonstrate its utility across defence; the only Sub Unit with an enduring commitment to the Op, now launching the 5th detachment to deploy.

The Regt also welcomes the new RSM, WO1 (RSM) Vincent and says thank you and goodbye to WO1 (RSM) Broom as he leaves to take up his new role as Corps Sergeant Major.

A final huge congratulation’s must go to the Regt’s sportsmen, women and teams who did so well at this year’s RLC Sports Awards.

8 WO1 Broom hands over the RSM's pace stick to WO1 (RSM) Vincent

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col A West • Adjt: Capt S Patterson • RSM: WO1 P Gurung The past three months have been particularly frenetic for the 10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment. It has celebrated the Nepali new year with true Gurkha zip, style and flair and has welcomed its new Commander, Lt Col Alex West, back in to the regimental family.

The period has also seen the Regt host a flurry of high profile guests, with Colonel Commandant Brigade of Gurkhas, Lt Gen N A W Pope CBE, and GOC 3rd (United Kingdom) Division, Maj Gen N R M Borton DSO MBE, both experiencing true gurkha hospitality and most importantly, the catering!

Under the exemplary leadership of 2Lt Adam Stephenson, the regimental shooting team has continued to impress, winning the Force Troops Command and RLC Operational Shooting Competitions (OSC) and more recently the 3rd (United Kingdom) Division OSC. Of note are the achievements of LCpl Arshu and Cpl Sonic who have won numerous individual awards at each of the competitions. In addition to this, The Commander’s Sword Competition has been all but secured by 1 Squadron after impressive victories in both hockey and football, with only the tug of war event remaining (at the time of press).

Additionally, twenty of the 10 QOGLR Regimental Golf society (Private to Major) have recently travelled to Scotland, where under the expert guidance of WO2 Ranjit Chatterjee, they played several world-renowned courses.

There has also been a continued drive towards developing personnel. Of note is the work of Sgt Sitaram Rai, who has planned and executed Defence General Service Driver conversion packages in preparation for participation on Ex TIMBER TRUSS, The RLC Tp Comds’ Course final exercise.

Outside of trade training, there have been adventurous training packages to Italy and Lower

8 Colonel Commandant Brigade of Gurkhas visit to 10 QOGLR

Gillerthwaite where participants took part in a range of activities, which have served to develop teamwork and leadership skills of all ranks.

Overseas, the Regt has maintained a presence in many theatres, with personnel deployed on Ops: CATAN, TOSCA and SHADER. In addition to this, there has been a continued presence in BATUS, BFSAI and Brunei.

Having celebrated RLC 25, the Regt is now looking forward to events closer to home. The regimental 60th birthday celebrations and the Kasham Khane Parade, the official inauguration of the Regt’s newest family members from intake 16 and 17, will now take centre stage and

they promise to be the most elaborate to date.

The Regt would like to congratulate the eight recent recipients of the Long Service and Good Conduct Medals: SSgt Beg Thapa, SSgt Andrews Annan, Sgt Binod Gurung, Sgt Jeevan Rai, Sgt Sabin Gurung, Sgt Pankaj Gurung, Cpl Mahesh Wanem and Cpl Om Waiba Tamang.

Finally, 10 QOGLR would like to take this opportunity to welcome Capts Todhan Ghale and Vivek Shah to the Officers’ Mess. With competition for a late entry commission so fierce within the Regt, and with less than 0.1% of each Gurkha intake progressing to this stage, their achievement is one of which to be particularly proud.

8 The regimental shooting team and awards at DOSC

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment RLC DIDCOT CO: Lt Col B K Howard • Adjt: Capt L Shepherd • RSM: WO1 P Gonzalez

11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Regiment continues to deliver EOD capability and Ammunition Technical Support worldwide.

This quarter has included 701 EOD tasks in support of Military Aid to Civil Authorities across the UK and overseas deployments to nine countries on operations and exercises.

621 EOD Sqn was asked to assist Northamptonshire Police in supporting this year’s Formula 1 Grand Prix at Silverstone. It was tasked with electronic searches of vulnerable points and requested to provide an EOD presence at the prestigious event.

The support to this event started on the Thursday where LCpl N Stacey, Sgt S Jones, Cpl A Dufton, LCpl S Starling and LCpl R Tompson-Wells conducted a recce of the Silverstone race track and surrounding area. During the recce, they were lucky enough to meet several of the F1 drivers including Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel.

Friday was an early start, following a series of briefs from the 60

police, they conducted their electronic searches of the previously identified vulnerable points. Once these searches were complete they went into a supporting role alongside the Incident Response Medical team and Incident Liaison Officers from Northamptonshire Police and the Fire and Rescue Service.

On the main race day, they conducted additional searches in the morning and then were situated at Stowe Corner to provide support during the race. Before the race began they were invited onto the track to be part of the track parade. All the drivers were present and it was obvious that this was a once in a lifetime experience!

Also during this quarter, a Defence EOD team, ECM team and several Advanced EOD Operators from Northolt Troop were forward based at Victoria Barracks located in the heart of Windsor for the duration of the Royal Wedding.

This allowed for quick access to all key areas of the town in the event of an incident.

While the preparations and

8 621 Team inside the McClaren Pit garage at Silverstone

rehearsals for the UK’s biggest public and media spectacle of 2018 were being made, the personnel of Northolt Troop took the opportunity to recce the route of the Royal Wedding Carriage Procession which would take place after the ceremony at St George’s Chapel in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

With preparations complete and with a second Defence EOD team from Northolt Troop providing cover to the remainder of the AO, all that was required was for the Royal Wedding to commence. The magnitude of the event became increasingly evident as 160,000 members of the public entered Windsor, protected by 3000 police officers and a further 1.9 billion people watching around the globe.

Op LYCEUM provided a unique and rewarding challenge to the EOD teams, the opportunity to view the spectacle from a privileged position in front of Victoria Barracks has formed indelible memories for all involved.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER CO: Lt Col M Genko • Adjt: Capt S Spencer-Small • RSM: WO1 R Falls Having completed the Troop Commanders Course at the Defence School of Logistics, two 2Lts were posted to 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC. From here, they immediately embarked on two separate, yet equally demanding courses. 2Lts Tom Beaton and Joe Sadler respectively attended the Platoon Commanders Battle Course (PCBC) in Brecon and All Arms PreParachute Selection Course (AAPPS) in Catterick. This piece follows their experiences as they offer an insight into both courses.

Platoon Commander’s Battle Course – 2Lt Tom Beaton In Jan this year, I attended the PCBC at the Infantry Battle School, Brecon. This was an opportunity to learn new skills in LFTT and to hone my ability to lead soldiers in a dismounted infantry context. These were all things that once learnt, I could bring to my unit to aid in the Regt’s goal of creating logisticians that truly embody the mantra, ‘Soldier first, tradesman second.’

The course is broken into two distinct phases – Live Fire Transition Training (LFTT) lasting five weeks and a tactics phase lasting 11 weeks. The LFTT phase built my skill set from the ground up, ensuring a thorough understanding of how to plan, run and resource any live firing range.

On moving to the tactics phase, there was a notable change of pace and it wasn’t long before we were out on exercise in Sennybridge.

Similar to the Commissioning Course held at Sandhurst, the course is progressive, building up from the command of actions at Section level.

Undoubtedly known for being a demanding course, I knew that the three months spent in Wales would

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inevitably present a number of challenges. The weather was characteristically grim; we saw plenty of snow and rain and a distinct lack of sunshine. Highlights included the infamous ‘fan dance’ and the formative yet complex week spent in Celini village learning building clearance with members of the Special Forces Support Group.

The All Arms Pre-Parachute Selection Course – 2Lt Joe Sadler “To test physical fitness, determination and mental robustness, under conditions of stress, to determine whether an individual has the self-discipline and motivation required for service with Airborne Forces.”

The Pegasus (P) Company mission describes the course perfectly; fitness alone will not get you through the course. The instructors ensure that each individual is pushed to their limit and displays all the required character traits.

Nobody goes through PCompany easily as everyone has an element they will struggle with, be it the milling, trainasium, tabbing

To test physical fitness, determination and mental robustness, under conditions of stress, to determine whether an individual has the self-discipline and motivation required for service with Airborne Forces

8 2Lt Tom Beaton completing the Fan Dance as part of PCBC

or speed play. For me it was by far the speed play; a mixture of long distance sprints, interspersed with ‘work stations’ that test an individual’s whole-body fitness.

Not letting your head drop if you pick up a red card or an injury is all part of achieving the aims of the mission; showing that you have the determination necessary to push through to the end. It’s very easy to be affected by the stories that precede each physical event.

However, I was hugely assisted by the wise words I received before starting, ‘Never take yourself off’. The key is taking each day as it comes and believing that you can get through the session in front of you.

Test week is the final hurdle of the course and is the part of AAPPS labelled P Company. It is designed to include an element of each aspect of an airborne operation and the instructors make sure you’re in the right mindset before you start each event.

At this point, everyone on the course is working for and motivating each other to push all the way to the end. For me, this is why test week is by far the most enjoyable part of the course and will remain in my memory for years to come.

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTHAMPTON CO: Lt Col P Eaton MBE • Adjt: Capt H Travis • RSM: WO1 G Richards Another busy season for 17 Port & Maritime Regiment; whether it be completing collective training, soldier first training or on the sports field, the Regt has delivered success on all fronts.

The Regt continues to fulfil its role in providing Port Task Groups (PTGs) overseas in support of operations by British Forces around the world. In the last few months, members of the Regt have deployed to the USA, Kenya, Scotland, Norway and the Caribbean.

In camp, the Regimental Welfare Team has been busy putting together regular charity events.

Jul saw Cpl Sweeting & LCpl Soremi host the most recent Big Brew Up which raised a fantastic £334.50 for SSAFA and the British Heart Foundation.

Pte Briggs of Yankee Tp, 52 Port Squadron also received a CGS’ Commendation in recognition for his gallant action in helping to save the lives of three young children whilst detached from the unit as a sailing instructor at Thorney Island.

In addition to ongoing deployments to support overseas operations, members of the Regt have also deployed on annual collective training exercises. These included, Ex SEAHORSE SECURE a CT2 exercise by 51 Sqn on the Isle of Wight, where the Sqn conducted BCCS themed scenarios and built a valuable new relationship with the Lord Lieutenant to support future exercises on the island.

52 Sqn meanwhile deployed it’s Mexeflote capability to Browndown Beach to support a Tp CT1 level Exercise, MERLION STALLION, where members of the Regt got back to basics with their beach trade skills by establishing a Logistic Beach Unit.

The Regt has also deployed members back on to Atlantic Patrol Task (APT (N)) in preparation for the forthcoming Hurricane Season, as well as completing a PNCO course.

The Regt’s diving team have had an incredible training period.

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function of the eighteen-strong team is to provide support to the Regt at home and abroad in the activation and maintenance of Sea Ports of Disembarkation (SPOD).

Recently, the dive team has been hard at work, conducting training exercises in Scotland, Plymouth, Chepstow and has been active in the local area completing several mutually beneficial tasks for various agencies such as harbour authorities, the Maritime Archaeology Trust and The National Marine Aquarium.

The Regt has retained its reputation as a sporting centre of excellence. At the start of the year, the unit was crowned Corps RLC Cross-Country Champions in a closely contested race at Dalton Barracks, Abingdon.

Members of the Regt’s triathlon team then succeeded in winning the Army Major Unit title at the Duathlon Championships. Held

8 The dive team has been hard at work, conducting training exercises in Scotland, Plymouth and Chepstow

again at Dalton Barracks, a tough 'sprint' style run-bike-run format saw Lt Eaton win the overall Army Championship title.

Most recently the same team defended the Major Unit Championship title at the Army Standard Distance Triathlon, as well as aiding The RLC to win the Corps competition fighting off fierce competition from the RAPTC. All members of the team, both new and experienced, must be congratulated for completing a physically and mentally demanding two hour plus race in temperatures exceeding 30 degrees!

Finally, the Regimental Swimming Team is getting into action taking part in the first of the Armed Forces Open Water Swim League races down at Boscome Beach.

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The Regt has retained its reputation as a sporting centre of excellence. At the start of the year, the unit was crowned Corps RLC Cross-Country Champions in a closely contested race at Dalton Barracks, Abingdon

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DEEPCUT CO: Lt Col M A Scannell • Adjt: Capt F Harris • RSM: WO1 D Burditt A busy quarter has seen the delivery of CLM courses, overseeing training and management of Initial Trade Training (ITT) RLC soldiers and the complete renovation of the WRVS welfare facilities.

Additionally, the Regt has deployed on AT, completed challenging physical pursuits and undertaken significant community engagement activities.

In Oct 2017, Cpl Chris Young of 109 Sqn decided to organise and participate in a 188-mile march in four days across four counties incorporating Navy Command HQ Portsmouth, RAF Brize Norton and HQ Home Command in Aldershot.

This impressive feat was in aid of SSAFA the Armed Forces charity, which had provided Cpl Young and his family with invaluable support throughout his career Cpl Young managed to persuade two other members of 109 Sqn to partake in the challenge; Cpl Chris Denny and Cpl Lee Aldred. Departing on 4 Jun, the trio managed to finish the event at 1830 on 7 Jun after walking for over ten hours a day.

Members of 109 Sqn deployed to Capel Curig under the watchful eye of Cpl Danny Burford.

They spent a week summiting peaks in Snowdonia, conducting navigation lessons based around map reading and compass work.

This provided a great opportunity for ITT soldiers to further develop their team building skills and was thoroughly enjoyed by all during the early Jul heatwave.

well attended and enjoyed by all those involved.

SSgt Sonya Jaffe, her team and members of the gym staff have found the time to train female prisoners as part of an engagement programme called One Voice at HMP Downview. This has involved the delivery of lessons to assist with the rehabilitation of the participants.

Sgt Louisa Steer delivered lessons to children of varying ages at Manor Croft School ahead of the nation’s AFD celebrations. A very active day was made all the more enjoyable by the effort and enthusiasm of the children, rounded off with each child making an individual card for the soldiers.

BCCS UTC Longmoor hosts the final stage of the ITT soldiers training in 109 Sqn. The monthly BCCS exercise provides a challenging environment for the Phase Two soldiers to prove that they are capable of the basic soldiering skills required before being posted to their respective regiments. The regiment wishes all those moving on the very best of luck.

Deepcut Support Unit The arrival of two new WRVS Welfare Officers has re-energised the Deepcut Station WRVS facility – Emma and Stuart have made a huge impact after only two months in post. This facility is the living room of ITT soldiers and in need of a makeover.

OC Deepcut Support Unit, Maj Fiona Dangerfield decided to make this happen utilising £6000 worth of funding and some enthusiastic Phase Two soldiers to begin a DIY project including the painting and renovation of all six rooms, the acquisition of nine new sofas and the resurfacing of pool and snooker tables.

The facility will benefit further from DBI WIFI in Aug and will provide an area where soldiers can enjoy free time in between training.

Thanks goes to the vision and drive of the WRVS officers and to the soldiers who invested time and effort in the project.

8 Cpl Chris Young, Cpl Chris Denny and Cpl Lee Aldred of 109 Sqn participated in a 188-mile march in four days across four counties

85 Sqn Over the last quarter, 85 Sqn has delivered two SNCO CLM courses, four JNCO courses, a WO CLM course and an Instructor Development course (IDC); the replacement course for JPIC. Cpl Nico Onegi led the regimental contingent at the tri-service AFD parade in Winchester with ten ITT soldiers from 109 Sqn, the salute being taken by the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire. The day was very www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col J C West • Adjt: Capt O Mcgarvey-Miles • RSM: WO1 W Eagle This quarter 27 Regiment has kept busy with successful sporting events, exercises and AT. The Regt deployed on a patrol competition in the Brecon beacons, gained some great results in the Operational Shooting Competitions and in the Bari Cup. EX WARRIOR WOLF EX WARRIOR WOLF saw private soldiers from across the Regt deploy to take part in a three-day patrol competition; leading their peers through a variety of tasks and challenges.

The exercise started with the troops conducting a ROSI package facilitated by the training wing, where they revised BCS lessons to prepare them for the week ahead.

The deployment phase started on the Monday morning with the troops leaving in the early hours for the Brecon Beacons.

On arrival, they were split and patrolled into hasty harbours, where they received final lessons and conducted administration. The following morning the sections were taken to drop off points and started the patrol competition. The route saw them patrol from stand to stand cross country, working on their navigation and teamwork.

At the checkpoints, they had to complete command tasks and military skills serials. These ranged from command tasks to BLS, VCPs and up to section attacks. This tested them in command, allowing them to take charge and showcase their potential as leaders and thinking soldiers. The patrol phase finished on Wednesday afternoon, with the sections going into administration before they formed three troops for a final dawn attack on the Thursday morning.

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Sports The Regimental Shooting Team continued to go from strength to strength. After a third-place finish at the Brigade Operational Shooting Competition, it has its sights set on The RLC Championships and the Divisional Operational Shooting Competition.

The team worked hard and had a week of training leading into The RLC Championships where it put in a strong performance and finished a in a respectable fourth position.

Another couple of weeks on the ranges and the team started to look at the Divisional Operational Shooting Competition.

Here it took on competition from the Armoured Infantry Brigades in 3 (UK) Div but managed to hold its own, again finishing in third place to the dismay of the Infantry. This result saw the team through to Bisley for the Army Operational

A key annual event for the regiment is the Corps Boxing, which it hosts. This year was no different and hopefully everyone who attended from 2-star general to private soldier will agree the event was a roaring success

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8 EX WARRIOR WOLF saw private soldiers from across the Regt deploy to take part in a three-day patrol competition

Shooting Competition, where it would compete against the top teams from across the Army and the opportunity of qualifying for the Army 100. After fierce competition, the Wolf Pack finished 22nd out of 46 teams.

The sporting strength of the Regt continued to show this quarter, with a good result from the Regimental Hockey Team coming second in the Bari Cup. The team topped the group winning five of its six games and drawing only one, then unfortunately losing the final. A key annual event for the Regt is the Corps Boxing, which it hosts. This year was no different and hopefully everyone who attended from 2-star general to private soldier will agree the event was a roaring success. The Regit had some victories in the ring and Pte Williams was awarded the Most Gallant Boxer, which was an extremely proud moment as it epitomised the fighting spirit of the regimental team.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTH CERNEY CO: Lt Col C G Munce MBE • Adjt: Capt R D Irvine • RSM: WO1 L E Russell 8 Cpl Classens and Pte Carr

Over the second quarter of the year 29 Regiment has maintained its commitments to Op TORAL, Op SHADER, Op CABRIT, Op TRENTON and Op KIPION, as well as supporting exercises in some more exotic locations such as Florida, Morocco, Canada, Lithuania and Japan, among many others.

50 Sqn is responsible for operating the Joint Air Mounting Centre (JAMC) and conducted Ex TOTEMIC an “air portability readiness” exercise, whereby unit personnel, vehicles and equipment from 16 Bde are deployed at readiness. This not only provides a realistic indication to the units of their preparedness, but also provides a realistic training scenario for Mov Con personnel to build professional competence.

Not just limited to South Cerney, members of 50 Sqn managed to deploy further afield, LCpl’s Flintoff and Faulkner earned Commander BATUK Commendations for their tireless work within the ATLO Detachment at Jomo Kenyatta airport in Nairobi.

Unique challenges 59 Sqn meanwhile welcomed personnel back from Op tours and deployed other to replace them.

Although personnel continued to support exercises deploying around the world, preparation for Ex SAIF SAREEA has been the main focus for the Sqn. Providing the FMCC, Movement Control function, as well as the countrywide Postal & Courier capability, has provided its own unique challenges. At the time of writing, the PTG Det has deployed and will soon be followed by the remainder.

The Sqn also said goodbye to the Control Tower, its home since inception in 1982. Moving into new office accommodation marks the end of an era for the Sqn. 69 PC & MC Sqn has had a challenging quarter with a consistently high turnover of Firm

8 Sgt Marshall, selected for the Army Team

Base MC tasks; all while conducting MCCPs for the rebasing of 35 Engr from Paderborn.

Sgt Morris made good use of his GAER qualification and led the recovery of vehicles and

ammunition for 5 SCOTS returning from Ex JEBEL STORM in Oman.

PC Tp has been equally busy maintaining a high quality postal service while beginning preparations for the drawdown of FPOs in BFG. The Sqn has deployed on CT1 training, AT packages and battlefield tours. It also held a team cohesion day offering welcome respite and the opportunity to bid farewell to the outgoing OC. 80 Sqn has been busy both on and off the field. LCpl Rouse has been awarded the Conductors Coin.

Sgt Marshall has been riding with the Army mountain biking team and has been selected for the UK Gravity Enduro series.

Cpl Pryce, LCpl Cotterell and Pte Doughty have represented the Regt playing netball and competing in the Bowden Cup. Cpl Classens (AGC SPS) and Pte Carr were selected for the British Army Female Rugby team. Pte Carr was awarded the “Players Player” award in the 10-12 win over the French Navy.

Pte Costello has been busy at the Flanders Open Rugby tournament and competing at the FTC OSC and the FTC March & Shoot.

Meanwhile, 99 Sqn continued to support exercises and operations worldwide. The Sqn conducted a multi-activity week AT week in Snowdonia. Lt Kirkham lead the regimental operational shooting team at the FTC OSC finishing third in the Corps.

Jun saw the Sqn deploy to Longmoor on a ten-day BCS exercise, with elements of 39 Trans Bn US Army attached; a huge success.

The Sqn has maintained a myriad of sporting achievements including LCpl Porter earning a podium place on the Women’s tour series. The 10 Y Fan challenge was completed by Ptes Curran and Swara, raising over £1,400 for the “Dreams and Wishes” charity.

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL CO: Lt Col M Casey • Adjt: Capt E Hanley • RSM: WO1 P Doherty 8 150 Regt Clay Shooting Team (L to R): Sgt G Openshaw, LCpl M Townend, 2Lt Oli Bird

An active enemy ensured that the commander, as well as all those in the platoons, were thoroughly tested throughout. The culmination of the exercise resulted in a company attack in an urban environment, a scale and endeavour that many of those deployed had never had the opportunity to undertake.

Overall, the exercise was challenging and provided a unique opportunity to develop skills and advancing overall military competency for all ranks.

In May 2018, 150 Regiment deployed to Cyprus for its annual camp. The camp provided the training team with a unique opportunity to develop skills among all ranks, ensuring a great deal of the BCCS training was delivered to a high level.

In addition to the development of its own troops, 150 Regt hosted an American officer as part of its commitment to the MREP programme, strengthening ties with its NATO allies. Furthermore, the exercise drew on talent from 6 Regt RLC and provided exposure to recruits currently conducting driver training at DST Leconfield.

The initial phase of the exercise saw personnel split into three independent platoons. Each grouping conducted three activities each last two days in a round robin of training. The first activity consisted of a range package including; multiple GPMG familiarisation shoots, competition shoots across multiple weapon systems, vehicle mounted live firing and CQB lanes incorporating both rifle and Glock pistol.

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For many of the troops, this was their first exposure to live firing on certain weapon systems and it proved to be a real eye opener for those new to the competition shooting world.

The second phase consisted of a dynamic BCCS package. Platoons were given a curriculum as a guide linen from which they conducted training independently led by their Officers and NCOs. This helped to ensure all personnel were trained at a pace suitable to them, developing each soldier and strengthening collaboration within platoons.

To build upon this close teamwork, the third activity was a challenging AT package. Mountain biking over Cyprus’ arduous terrain, or climbing some of its sheer peaks, pushed many well beyond their comfort zones.

The previous weeks training had honed the skills of all personnel in preparation for the final exercise.

Multiple scenarios had been developed, including complex ambushes, platoon attacks and detailed recces - including the use of a helicopter.

Clay pigeon shooting Through significant effort, 150 Regt has developed the core of an accomplished Clay Pigeon Shooting Team capable of competing in The RLC Clay Pigeon Shooting Championships. The competition took place on 13 Jun 18 at Bramley Shooting Ground, which proved to be an exceptionally challenging venue.

Clay pigeon shooting is very much in its infancy within both the Corp and the Regt, so it was a surprise to see such a dynamic, variable and challenging 100 bird sporting layout.

The mixture of targets, spread across ten stands, put the team through its paces and its difficulty is testament to the less experienced members of the team considering their success and their limited competition experience.

Overall, 150 Regt’s team achieved second place, with 2Lt Oli Bird achieving the Reserve High Gun, LCpl Michael Townend grabbing C Class High Gun and Sgt Gary Openshaw putting in a solid score to bolster the team.

Special mention should be given to LCpl Townend, who achieved this great success, despite having only shot casually a couple of occasions beforehand.

150 Regt looks forward to building on this success in the future.

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CROYDON CO: Lt Col D T Miller • Adjt: Capt J P M Woolridge • RSM: WO1 V Chappell

The last three months has seen the 151 Regiment spread as far as Africa and the Middle East, bridging communities in the UK and even celebrating a 99th birthday.

This aside however, the Regt is still shooting and doing it well.

This culminated with a pairing competition on 2 Jun between 151 Regt, 10 QOGLR and 3 Regt RLC. The competition was visited by Brigadier Harrington, Col Hearty and the Colonel RLC Reserves, who had a chance to fire the new SA80 A3 before prizes were presented, one of which went to Corporal Lisa Ingram who was crowned champion shot.

The day was also an opportunity to mark the one-year anniversary of G Troop, which is a reserve troop embedded into 10 QOGLR in Aldershot.

This however was not the only birthday that was celebrated over the last three months as, on 24 May, the RSM and the CO were invited to the SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity division in Southend, to celebrate the 99th birthday of Alfred Smith and a number of other World War 2 veterans.

The youngest of these veterans was 93! Alfred Smith had been evacuated from Dunkirk and subsequently took part in the D-Day

landings as part of his service in the Royal Army Service Corps and it was therefore a great privilege for the Regt to be invited.

8 The Regt is still shooting and doing

Community engagement Not only has the Regt been engaging with veterans of the Corps, but it has been involved in a number of locations to help engender interest from the civilian community, including Wimbledon, where, both Sgt Jermaine Shaw and Sgt Suen Simpson took two week’s leave to help with stewarding at the tennis championships.

Armed Forces’ Day was another example and a great opportunity to share what The RLC does with the local community.

The importance of working with the local community is exemplified by the attendance of members of 562 Squadron at Parkash Samagam at the Guru Nanak Academy in Hayes. This is a globally celebrated Sikh festival and a good chance to understand more about the large Sikh community based in this part of London.

team building. This included kayaking, paddle boarding, climbing and mountain biking, which ensured that all of the participants were pushed out of their comfort zone and were able to experience something new.

The second was a pilgrimage carried out by Pte Alkarim Ismail who was chosen as one of ten from the British Army’s Muslim community to perform the religious obligation of Umrah. This is the title given to a pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, which can be performed at any time of year. It was not only the experience of a lifetime, but a great defence engagement opportunity and a chance to build relationships between the two respective armed forces.

While there has been a lot happening for the Regt there have also been a number of changes of personnel. The Regt has a new Training Major; Major Adam Lloyd, is losing WO2 Gavin Hogben to the prison service and its QM; Major Devendra Ale, who is posted to 11 Bde in Aldershot.

The unit abroad The Regt has also had a couple of chances to influence abroad. The first of which was an AT package in Kenya encouraging leadership and

it well culminating with a pairing competition between 151 Regt, 10 QOGLR and 3 Regt RLC

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THE SUSTAINER | RESERVE UNITS

152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST CO: Lt Col A Chambers • Adjt: Capt N R Allinson • RSM: (SSM) WO1 Llewellyn-Jones In Jun, 152 (North Irish) Regiment said farewell and thanks to WO2 Sinclair (PSI). Following three years with his Sqn, he has completed his 22 years’ colour service, but has decided to remain within the Sqn as a reservist. The Regt welcomes WO2 Patterson who is taking up the mantle as PSI. To mark RLC25, a group of JNCOs decided that they would enter this year’s Portrush raft race. They had to design the raft and managed to rope in one of the civilian guards, who helped with his welding skills and nautical experience.

Raft built and named (Haven’t an Ocean), they began raising funds in aid of the RNLI. The race was a great day’s craic. The Sqn rallied around and raised £200 for this great cause. All landed safely and the team finished a creditable tenth out of 50 rafts in its first attempt.

Haven’t an Ocean is being re-designed and hopefully version two will be launched next year.

220 Tanker Sqn Earlier this year, 220 Squadron deployed on an FTX to Ballykinler Training Camp to conduct a series of packages taken from the ‘Back to Basics Combat Service Support’ Battle-craft Syllabus (BCS). The training was designed to progress individual and collective training competencies, enabling the Sqn to successfully execute our tactical role and StA functions.

Luckily enough for 220 Sqn, it had a brand-new OC from an infantry background. The skills

covered during the two-day package included battlefield discipline, prepare, operate, protect and sustain, culminating in an AFT. Infantry skills will now be planned into most weekends going forward.

400 Petroleum Sqn In Apr, 400 (Belfast) Petroleum Sqn conducted a crammed and successful weekend disposal camp at Aldergrove Flying Station.

Whilst the other ranks focused on their MATTS, the OC Maj McNally seized the opportunity to conduct a ‘Reporting Officers’ workshop exercising the combined brain power of the SNCO’s and officers.

Ten personnel from the Sqn attended the Class 3 Petroleum Operator course at the Defence Petroleum Training Sqn at West Moors. Feedback for the reserve course was strong.

Pte Hulls managed to secure the number one spot and be crowned top student. Ex GREEN SHADOW 1 saw personnel deploy with 227

8 WO2 Hamilton, SSgt Penrose, LCpl Brown, LCpl Andrews, Pte Lavery, Pte Mitchell, Pte Parker, LCpl Graham proudly showing off their plethora of silverware (HQ) Sqn to conduct a range package followed by a much needed shake out in the field, allowing soldiers to focus on their back to basics skills.

Regimental shooting Year on year, 152 Regt strives to improve the quality, accuracy and results of its competitive shooting.

The Force Troops Command Operational Shooting Competition (FTCOSC) took place from 21 to 22 Apr 18 at Bisley and this is a competition that has grown in stature over recent years and is now comparable with Army Reserve OSC (AROSC).

The Regt’s efforts paid dividends winning the title of FTC OSC Unit Champions. Lt Col Chambers, WO2 Hamilton, LCpl Brown, LCpl Graham and LCpl Andrews all secured five top 50 badges, with the CO being the first ever Lt Col to win a top 50 badge in the Army Reserve – an outstanding achievement all round!

The Regiment has a thoroughly professional shooting coach in the form of SSgt Penrose whom many within the shooting fraternity will know.

8 Fire fighting drills being carried out on the Class 3 Petroleum Operator course

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DUNFERMLINE CO: Lt Col A Wilkinson • Adjt: Capt T J Oliver • RSM: WO1 S Bowie

It has been another fantastic few months on the sporting front for 154 (Scottish) Regiment with its Cross-Country Male and Female teams winning the Tri-Service Scotland Minor Unit titles for the second year running thanks to fantastic representation across all Sqns and the excellent support provided throughout the season from WO2 Duff MBE. On the fairway, the Regt continued its good vein of form winning The RLC Spring Meeting Inter Unit Team Scratch competition.

In early May, Capt Toby Oliver led a regimental team of officers and soldiers in the Scottish Garelochhead Marches, a two-day event in which the team covered 25 miles per day carrying 10kgs in order to qualify for the Nijmegen Marches later this year.

Unlike the terrain that they will encounter in Nijmegen, the team had to face numerous ascents and descents over the two days and after successfully completing the event is looking forward to facing the slightly less undulating landscape of Holland.

Cateran Yomp At the start of Jun, Captain Toby Oliver, SSgt John Gardiner and LCpl Cindy Gavin took part in the Cateran Yomp, a 54-mile march around the

Spittal of Glenshee in support of the Army Benevolent Fund and Spinal Injuries Scotland to be completed in 24 hours or less.

Capt Oliver and SSgt Gardiner completed the Gold route with LCpl Gavin completing the Silver route, while SSgt D Milton and Pte M Ferrini provided outstanding support to the team members throughout the event.

Despite various aches, pains and blisters the team are already pondering whether they will be able to beat their time at next year’s event.

Alongside Pertemps, the Regt provided a joint stand for the 101 Logistic Brigade Reserve Capability Day at Bulford. The stand was aimed at highlighting the its C3 capabilities as well as the Portfolio Employment Model (PEM), where reserve soldiers can gain additional qualifications and experience of driving larger vehicle platforms.

The Regt bids farewell to the Regimental Quartermaster, Maj Mick O’Flynn, who is leaving the Army after nearly four decades of loyal service, Maj Nick Hegarty who moves to Regional Command and WO1 (RSM) Stuart Bowie, who moves onto the Defence Logistics School. In their place steps Major Kenny Wilson MBE, Maj Danny Ferguson and WO1 (RSM) Karl Poole, all of whom will be fantastic additions to the Regt.

8 154 Regt RLC team at the 2018 Scottish Garelochhead Marches (L-R LCpl S Wall, Pte P Livings, Pte S O’Neill, Capt T Oliver, Pte C Barr, Capt L Meiklejohn and Sgt J McCallum) Future plans Over the next quarter, the Regt has a wide range of taskings and activities to look forward to. Several soldiers are taking part in Ex LION SUN in Cyprus alongside the partnered regiment; 27 Regt RLC, while the Regt will be deploying to Pirbright on its Annual Camp for Ex TARTAN HYBRID where it will also be conducting a B3 course.

Capt Oliver will be leading the regimental team in the Nijmegen Marches and Lt L Pugh will be taking soldiers to Germany for a Mountain Biking AT expedition on Ex NORTHERN HARZ.

8 SSgt J Gardiner, LCpl E Gavin and Capt T Oliver at the 2018 Cateran Yomp

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL CO: Lt Col T Gould QGM • Adjt: Capt C Monk • RSM: WO1 B Gallagher The last three months have been an exceptionally busy period for the North West’s Logicians at 156 Regiment.

The Regt deployed on its first OTX in years, Ex LION STAR 1/18 and hence the sense of anticipation and excitement within the ranks was palpable.

Over one hundred personnel deployed on the Annual Collective Training event, supported by a small security contingent from the Regt’s paired regular unit 27 Regt RLC. The exercise consisted of three distinct elements: A comprehensive range package, a Dismounted Close Combat phase culminating in a Troop attack in Paramali and a host of adventure training opportunities offered on offer on the island.

The exercise was a resounding success and safe to say that morale in its afterglow is sky high.

Private George Masters This year is the hundredth anniversary of Private George Masters of the Army Service Corps, winning the Victoria Cross for his actions to save countless lives as an ambulance driver during the 1918 Spring offensive in France.

Pte Masters was a local soldier, born in Southport and during his life had a close affinity with the Regt. So much so that the Regt considers him to be one of its own.

In order that the occasion was suitably marked, the Regt partnered with the local authority, Sefton Borough Council, to ensure that the unveiling of a commemorative flagstone was fitting.

A marching contingent from the Regt, supported by The RLC Band provided the centrepiece at the short and contemplative memorial service held at the Southport Cenotaph. Following the unveiling ceremony, the Lord Mayor, The Regt Honorary Colonel, Ms Lesley Martin-Wright and 3 Division Deputy Comd (Reserves) Brig David Harrington, returned to the George Masters VC Army Reserves 70

Centre (ARC) in Bootle, home of 238 Sqn, to present a series of LS&GCs and warrants to members of the Regt.

The day was brought to a close by the road leading to the ARC, formally known as Pelham Drive, being renamed Pte George Masters VC Way. Fittingly, The RLC band were the first to make passage along it.

Sporting success The period has also been very good for the Regt on the sporting front.

The newly formed Regt’s Ladies Netball team was the only reserve unit team participating in The RLC Netball Championships and as another milestone, the Men’s Boxing team was the first reserve team to participate in The RLC Boxing Championships.

Admittedly, this year proved a little early for the team in terms of preparation, but enthusiasm for the sport remains high and they are adamant that they will progress into the finals next year. Finally, the Regt, once again, returned from The RLC Isle of White Regatta as the reserve unit

8 SSgt Smith & the Honor Guard marching through Southport

champions and second in the overall event.

SSgt Morrell, SQMS 234 (Birkenhead) Sqn, did an outstanding job to plan, resource and administer the competition on behalf of The RLC Sailing Committee.

Elements of the Regt’s command team completed a number of focus groups to review current working practices followed by AT in Snowdonia and Anglesey. Despite the rest of the country seemingly basking in thirty degrees plus weather, the ascent to the summit of Snowdon was conducted in rain and cloud with visibility at altitude being severely limited.

Congratulations to Maj Kevin Haigh and Daniella Aspin, both of 156 Regt RLC, who have been selected for command appointments on the recent publication of the 2018 Command Board.

Maj Haigh will assume command of 156 Regt RLC in Dec 19 and Maj Aspin is scheduled to assume command of 150 Tpt Regt RLC in the Summer of 2020.

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CARDIFF CO: Lt Col A M Madams • Adjt: Capt R Rudge • RSM: WO1 A Lodwig 157 (Welsh) Regiment entered two teams into this year’s EX LOMBARDIA 18 (or Italian Raid Commando), an International Military Skills Competition held in the Lombardia Region of Northern Italy, home to magnificent scenery and challenging mountainous terrain.

It’s the Italian version of Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL but with cave clearance, high wire and abseil.

The teams patrolled 40km in temperatures of 30C whilst carrying 20kg, and of the 60 international teams that entered, the Regt placed a highly commendable ninth and 16th (22 teams did not finish).

Special events Private Jenny Jones (224 Transport Squadron) as a fully-fledged member of the Silver Stars not only jumped in at the Corps Cocktail party but again at the Corps Open Day. Only a few days earlier she had met HRH The Princess Royal at Coed Ffos Las and the opening of the Woodland Park on the centenary of the end of WW1.

224 Tpt Sqn was part of the team who planted over 2000 trees a few years ago in appreciation of the role the wood played in keeping the services going (fuel and transportation). Pte Morris can be 8 224 Tpt Sqn at Coed Ffos Las

seen sporting a SSgt’s Mess Dress of the former Pembrokeshire Yeomanry, representing the reserves of the past (he was the only one it fitted); WO2 (SSM) Mathews, SSgt Davies, Cpl Abbot and LCpl Price also played their part, remaining thoroughly professional in the searing heat.

Reserve capability demo While some members of the Regt supported the Corps Open Day, others took part in the 101 Log Bde Reserve Capability Demonstration delivered by the Bde’s current and future reserve units to ensure that GOC 3 (UK) Div and DCFA got a flavour of the vital role reserve regiments play in the Warfighting Division.

8 B Team takes a break during the 40km patrol

Corps of Drums The Regt’s Corps of Drums travelled to Deepcut to join the ranks of The RLC Band, RLC Corps of Drums and 152 Regt RLC’s Pipes and Drums in support of this year’s Corps week.

Its drummers took part in several parades (including the Changing of the Guard) culminating in a massed RLC Bands event which saw 3 Regt RLC march through the streets of Windsor to mount the Queen’s Guard at Windsor Castle.

They even got a chance to play ‘Three Lions’.

Changing of the Guard It took some effort by the entire Regt to support three Corps level events and deliver squadron level training on the same weekend.

The professionalism and commitment of the soldiers and officers of the Regt was present in abundance!

8 Private JennyJones (224 Tpt Sqn)

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH CO: Lt Col A Gifford TD • Adjt: Capt C Boyden • RSM: WO1 J Goodridge As the year progresses steadily, 158 Regiment finds its self in the heat of activity. The Regiment’s soldiers and officers have found themselves partaking in a multitude of training activities including battle field studies in Flodden; BCCS training in Thetford; support to Nijmegen Marches in Holland; MREP exchange to America and sports competitions in 102 Log Bde. Battle of Flodden The Regt’s training in Jun saw a change from trade training to conceptual and academic development by means of a battlefield study.

A deployment of 63 soldiers and officers were sent forwards and upwards to the top of Flodden hill; with pens poised and a local historian primed, the academic battle commenced.

Following an introduction, a number of questions were posed to the groups allowing them to exercise the very essence of professional qualitative analysis, extrapolating out all relevant data, gaining an understanding of underlying reasons, opinions and motivations.

The conceptual training provided insights into specific logistic and planning problems, while providing legitimate critisms.

As the history behind the battle evolved, the training benefit could be seen as the groups started to evaluate detail, drawing on modern day concepts and theories. One group identified a wider point appertaining to how the English exercised the maneouvrist approach, as opposed to the Scots.

Concluding that the English were far more cognisant, both before and during the engagement, all agreed that this approach in addition to the topography of the ground were contributing factors in the English victory. As the day’s training was digested, the group took a typically english retreat to conclude, a cup of tea in the local town of Berwick upon Tweed.

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8 102 Log Bde held a Brigade Sports Day The final day’s training saw the study follow the Scottish retreat up to the town of Coldstream, taking in the history of Coldstream museum and the Regt’s very own ex Guardsman, SSgt Lee Northam. The trip concluded with a passionate requiem within the Coldstream memorial garden in the town.

102 Log Bde Sports Day On 21 Jul, 102 Log Bde held its Brigade Sports Day at Kendrew Barracks. Despite the rising summer temperatures and the Regt’s commitments to supporting the Nijmegen marches, a strong turnout of fine athletes was displayed.

The Regt had representation in badminton, rugby, road cycling, mountain biking, volleyball, orienteering and football.

Despite a lack of specific training, all participants fared well against their regular counterparts. Most notably, the Regt’s football and rugby teams displayed great teamwork and leadership to come

together on the field and perform to a high standard.

To quote WO2 M Regan, ‘The highlight of the day was beating a strong 7 Regt (B) team 2-0, Goals from Pte Mason and Sgt Temple.’ All in all, participants enjoyed some competitive sport and performed well whilst representing their Regt, finishing third out of all of the reserve units in 102 Log Bde has instilled pride in the Regt’s soldiers.

Forward thinking As this chapter closes and a new one opens, the Regt has a lot to look forward to over the summer months. Preparation for the ADE is well underway, with Altcar being the location of choice for the trade training camp.

Three pax will be deploying on a STTT to deliver logistic training in Ethiopia. In August, the Regt 2IC is delivering leadership training and the RCMO (Caveman) Capt Si Lowis is delivering a challenging AT concentration, to include training underground.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COVENTRY CO: Lt Col P Allen • Adjt: Capt R Jones • RSM: WO1 R Clarke Hearing this edition of the Sustainer was focusing on sports, 159 Regiment was very excited as it has some very talented individuals and teams that it loves to boast about.

The first shout out must go to LCpl Louisa Anderson who was selected as the Army Reserve Woman’s Player of the Year for 2017/18 season. She is a keen footballer who plays for the Regt, Army and even her local team in her spare time.

This year she has captained the team to victory too many times to count. And when she isn’t commanding the team on the field she is honing her soldier and logistician skills in her Sqn. She has also just finished her Reserve PNCO CLM course. An asset to the Regt without a doubt.

The next public thanks goes to WO2 Andy Johnstone and SSgt Andy Gadsby, who took on the 100km challenge for the ABF Soldiers Charity. They spent a weekend climbing up Pen Y Fan in Wales for charity on behalf of the Regt. In Mr Johnson’s own words, he hasn’t pushed himself like that in years, but it felt good. Massive well done to both. Same time next year?

Team training On the AT side, Capt Cliff Pearn led an amazing diving expedition to Cyprus for a week. All the soldiers left as an Ocean Diver through BSAC and with a dodgy wetsuit tan. It is always a great feeling to be able to deliver on the offer and what better way than learning a new skill and gaining a qualification. Cliff is an unbelievably experienced Scuba Diver and his love for the sport is infectious. The Regt is lucky to have him!

On the team front, the Regt’s female football team goes from strength to strength. Led by LCpl Louise Anderson, they always seem to pick up trophies in every competition they enter. Most recently they smashed it at 102X Sports Day again coming first.

8 LCpl Louisa Anderson who was selected as the Army Reserve Woman’s Player of the Year for 2017/18 season Pte Arran Harvey, who has fully embraced reserve life after completing the bespoke Access to Logistics course last year.

He is always striving for more both in and out of work. After an amazing time in Canada on an attachment he decided to set himself the challenge of the SF Fandance Challenge and of course he smashed it. The event was 24km over Pen Y Fan with a minimum of 35lbs on your back.

He absolutely ripped his feet to shreds but his courage and determination to finish was inspiring. He sums up the ethos of the Regt when he said: ‘Pain is temporary, glory is forever.’

They really are a force to be reckoned with. But behind the footballers there are some exceptional soldiers whose command and leadership abilities have really excelled through their participation of sport.

Final congratulations are for

Goodbyes As the Regt congratulates its soldiers on some outstanding physical effort it is also appropriate to wish the following all the best for the future as they move on.

Firstly, it’s goodbye to Maj ‘Oli’ Oliver, the QM who moves onto a new post at 11 Bde. He has achieved an inordinate amount over the last two years and it will be sad to see him go.

The second goodbye is to WO2 Peta Chapman who has retired from the regular Army after serving an amazing 23 years. She was the SPSI at 125 Sqn and she leaves behind big shoes to fill. She is now returning to New Zealand with her wife Claire and their dog Blue and we wish them all the health and happiness in the world.

The final farewell is to Sgt Dave ‘Shorty’ Short, who retires from the Reserve Army after completing his full service and some! His last role was as the clerk for 243 Sqn and his knowledge and stories will be missed by all. Enjoy retirement and enjoy your spare time!

8 Pte Arran Harvey took on the challenge of the SF Fandance Challenge

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM CO: Lt Col T Hope MBE • Adjt: Capt J Gallagher • RSM: WO1 J Thompson 162 Regiment welcomed a new CO, Lt Col Tim Hope MBE in Jun. The Regt formally said goodbye to Lt Col Duncan Jenkins by lining the route in Okehampton Camp whilst deployed on the Regimental Annual Continuous Training (ACT) exercise. The Regt wishes Lt Col Jenkins and his family, all the very best for the future and gives a warm welcome to Lt Col Tim Hope back to 162 Regt.

ACT 18 The Regt deployed over 130 personnel in Jun to its ACT in sunny Okehampton where a myriad of training serials took place. Soldiers were put through elements of the battle craft syllabus, including bespoke special to arms and soldier first skill packages.

The Movement Controllers conducted port reconnaissance exercises at Torquay, Brixham and Teignmouth in order to support a non-combatant evacuation operation. Meanwhile, the Postal and Courier element established a field post office, testing their processing and accounting skills, as well as delivering mail to various locations around the south of England. A comprehensive range package, sports day and adventure training, in the form of rock climbing, mountain biking and hill walking completed the line-up for this year’s enjoyable, rounded and challenging ACT. Maj Shaun Hoskins and his team from 280 Sqn planned, coordinated and executed a Bde reserve PNCO cadre based out of Willsworthy Camp. The exceedingly hot Jun weather was both a blessing and a curse for the 22 students, 11 of which were from 162 Regt. It is testament to the quality of the directing staff and the talent of JNCOs that is emerging in the Corps that every student successfully passed all training objectives. Congratulations go to LCpl Marc Daniel of 282 Sqn, 162 Regt, who was awarded top student for his hard work, dedication and selfless commitment.

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Civil engagement 162 Regt civil engagement events continues to flourish front under the watchful eye of the Regimental Administration Officer, Maj Bruce Spencer. Members of the Regt recently supported the Royal British Legion’s Mickleover open day, where Maj Spencer’s entertaining commentary on the cadet gun run would have given John McCririck a run for his money!

Repton School was the prestigious location for this year’s beating retreat ceremony supported by the Band of The RLC and The RLC Parachute Display Team, The Silver Stars. Making for a memorable event showing off not only the remarkable capabilities and talent of the Corps but also the

8 Lt Col Hope MBE takes over command of 162 Regt from Lt Col Jenkins

traditions and customs handed down from its predecessors which are still valued in today’s contemporary army.

Sports The Regt was kept busy at the Bari Cup in Aldershot, not only entering a team, but providing the catering support for the event. A well done goes to WO2 Lynn Hines who was a vital member of the organising committee and Pte William Younger of 883 Sqn, whose excellent food kept the 150 participants happy.

8 Lt Col Tim Hope MBE addressing guests at the Regimental Beating Retreat

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC PLYMOUTH CO: Lt Col C Hampton-Stone • Adjt: Capt D Withers • RSM: WO1 C Henbest 165 Port and Maritime Regiment’s focus for this period has been the build up to this year's ADE which will see the Regt going back to trade following last year's Cyprus military skills package.

Uniquely this year, the Regt has put on two ADE packages in order to allow more reservists to attend.

This has been complimented by the introduction of the BCS training syllabus which the unit is already getting its teeth into.

Having recently welcomed the new CO, the Regt has undergone another churn of regular manpower with RSM Chris Henbest leaving and his replacement RSM Mark Dowland arriving. At the time of writing, the Adjutant Capt Dan Withers currently is conducting a handover with his replacement Capt Phil Cussins.

The unit has been busy in the sporting arena with representation in cross country running, golf, sea angling and clay pigeon shooting, as well as having an opportunity to try something new with an introduction to ice hockey in Plymouth and some surfing in Cornwall.

The highlight of the period however was the Cocktail Party held by 232 (Cornwall) Sqn in Bodmin. This event brought key members of the local community together to meet the reserve soldiers and learn about what the Army Reserve does in the area.

Clay Pigeon The RLC’s annual clay pigeon shooting competition took place on 13 Jun 2018 at Brampton Training Area.

A well supported competition, there were 22 teams from across the Army, including two from 165 Port and Maritime Regt.

As this was the Regt’s first competition, the emphasis was on identifying clay/sporting shooters.

SSgt Richie Hubbard was given the task and very quickly managed to dust down an A and B team willing to have a go!

Although there would be little opportunity to train, he was confident that elite soldiers like those in 165 Regt would be more than competent after a single session in a field in the middle of nowhere.

All participants thoroughly enjoyed the day, the competition was well run and the set-up and stands were challenging beyond expectations. The efforts of the team were rewarded with a B Class runner up (SSgt Earl) and overall third placing for the “A” Team. Good effort, the team are now buying their tweed ready for next year.

Ice hockey Plymouth Pavilions Ice Rink is not somewhere the Regt has used for a

8 LCpl Neil Robson getting some hang time.....dude

8 Maj Taylor flattens SSgt Henry in pursuit of the puck

PT Session before but thanks to a generous offer from the Plymouth Pirates Ice Hockey Team, a contingent from the RHQ donned their skates for a session with a difference.

There was little experience in the group but all were keen to learn more about this fast paced contact sport. Abilities were mixed to say the least and with the regular skiers having a distinct advantage, the action came thick and fast.

As if to restore faith in karma, the unit PTI LCpl Dan Coombs was largely unable to let go of the side much to the amusement of medic Cpl Jenny Shaw, who enjoyed skating rings around him. QM Maj Garth Taylor quickly adopted the role of “enforcer” flattening anyone who found themselves in his way.

Sgt Maj Will Wills quickly decided skating was not for him and donned the goalie kit only to find that goalie was also not for him. A great day was had by all. Thanks go out to the Plymouth Pavilions and Plymouth Pirates.

8 If you are a service leaver with previous port & maritime experience or you are settling in or around Devon, Cornwall, Hampshire or the Bicester region and wish to know more about opportunities in 165 P&M Regt RLC, please contact the RCMO on 01752 835819.

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

167 Catering Support Regiment RLC GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col J A Cattermull • Adjt: Capt J Caine • RSM: WO1 A Ward Life continued at pace for 167 Catering Support Regiment after the RLC 25 Anniversary Dinner, planning, organising and hosting Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 18.

The competition was a huge success as shown in the article in this edition. 167 Regt took time during the competition for Maj Gen Capps CBE, GOC RC to present WO1 Martin-Chambers and Cpl Liczbinski with their GOC FTC’s Certificate of Meritorious Service.

LCpl Gill was also presented with her Brigade Commanders Certificate by Brig Thorpe OBE. Meanwhile, the Regt has supported many exercises overseas with eight chefs in the USA, three in the Isle of Wight, three in Germany and one chef in Holland on the Nijmegen Marches. It also delivered a week’s CLM training, enjoyed a Bde BFS, a multi-activity adventurous training camp to Capel Curig and sporting pursuits.

Ex BEAVER BREAKOUT 28 personnel from 2OSG and 167 Catering Support Regts conducted a joint Battlefield Study of the 1943/44 Allied campaign in Italy.

The BFS started with stands on the Landings at Paestum, the start of the Allied invasion of mainland Italy. After studying the defensive positions, the day ended at the Salerno War Cemetery where 11 members of the Army Catering Corp lie.

Day two started with the Italian war cemetery at the Mignano Gap, at the foot of Mount Lungo, moving on to Mount Sammucro and the ancient city of San Pietro, left in ruin to this day by two weeks of heavy fighting. The day ended with the Liri Valley with the first of the Cassino battles and the Rapido river crossings.

Day three saw the study of the final three battles for Cassino taking in Point 165 Castle hill, the Cavendish road, Albaneta farm, Hill 593 and culminating with the monastery at Monte Cassino.

Before departing Cassino, the 76

8 Members of the RLC Polo Team in South Africa on a training camp

soldiers conducted a short service of remembrance laying a wreath in commemoration at the Cassino Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery; stunningly situated below the monastery.

The week was packed to ensure everyone was fully immersed.

Everyone was involved in delivery of a ground brief or answering preset questions, sparking debate and analysis of the military issues faced on both sides of the campaign in Italy, including working in coalitions.

Ex JURASSIC CHUKKA Ex JURASSIC CHUKKA was a ten-day camp to improve The RLC polo players in skill, tactics, horsemanship, rules and umpiring in the Corps. Cpl Bennion of 167 Regiment took part in the trip to South Africa.

The team landed in Durban via Dubai and travelled by road to the Jurassic Park Polo Club, situated in Swartberg on the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains. Selby Williamson, the South African national captain, is the owner and founded the club in 2001.

The aim of the excursion was to improve players riding, stick skills, umpiring and team play and team tactics.

After a week’s fantastic tuition, the polo team entered a local tournament. Local players were mixed in with The RLC team to help make up the numbers and improve the skill level. Five chukkas of seven minutes were played all at a very fast pace, changing ponies after each one.

The group took the opportunity to take a trip up the closest mountain taking advantage of spectacular sunset over the Lesotho hills, a perfect way to end a fantastic trip.

The event was a great success as the whole team improved knowledge and skills as well as enjoying some fantastic BBQ food! It was an amazing opportunity demonstrating the breadth of activities open to those in the Reserve.

8 If you are a service leaver or a reservist looking for a new challenge and want to know more about 167 Catering Support Regiment, please call 0115 957 3321. We are a nationally recruited Regt with a reduced commitment of 19 days per year.

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

20 Transport Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps LONDON OC: Maj R Habbershaw • SSM: WO2 A Salihu At the time of writing this narrative, 20 Transport Squadron has completed a demanding few months supporting all State, Ceremonial and Public Duties commitments including the Royal Wedding, as well as routine tasks on behalf of HQ London District.

The most significant change has been welcoming Maj Richard Habbershaw RLC as the new Officer Commanding.

Charity events Members of the Sqn have undertaken many sporting and charitable events throughout the year. The 2IC, Capt Paddy Anderson led a team of runners consisting of LCpl’s Jack McGuire, Aled Harvey and Pte’s Jamie Woodall and Jess Andrew Chapman in support of the Vitality 10K Run, that took place in Central London.

Furthermore, LCpl McGuire raised £728 in charitable donations supporting Tickets for Troops by completing the London Marathon in the time of 4 hours 11 mins.

On the welfare front, Sgt (Minty) Williams with the assistance of Ptes Elekuru, Muir, White and Woodall organised a fantastic Big Brew Up raising £177.59 in support of SSAFA the Armed Forces charity.

Sports On the sporting front, Capt Matt Field brought his Corps hockey skills to the fore by leading a team in this year’s Bari Cup for possibly the first time in the competition’s illustrious 71-year history, at a time when the nation was gripped with World Cup fever.

Planning to go and enjoy the three-day competition, learn a new sport and enjoy the sun - the team didn’t yet believe. That was about to change.

Following a strong win in the opening game, during which Cpl Gurung had to be reminded which goal he was supposed to score in, Pte Woodall remarked how excellent it would be to take some silverware home to the Sqn, so the

team set its sights on qualifying for the Bowl: Semi Finals.

However, the goals continued to flow; Pte Tottle with five, OCdt Peerless with four, Pte Woodall three and Cpl Gurung two (including a superb solo effort) Sgt Halliday one, Pte Fullick one and OCdt Sapsford one.

After a day and a half of competition, the team found itself in the Bari Cup semi-final. It’s times like these that big players need to show themselves, step forward Pte Woodall. After a quiet group stage, he exploded onto the scene in the finals with a goal in both the semi and the final.

The Sqn ran out 2-1 winners against a very good 27 Regt RLC team. The team had a strong spine

8 Bari Cup Champions 2018 (20 Transport Squadron RLC)

consisting of Capt Field, LCpl Bubnelis and Capt Dales (GK drafted in at short notice) but it was the effort, willingness to learn and determination of the other seven completely novice players that made winning possible.

AT It’s not all work within the Sqn with LCpl Kawaljeet Singh and Pte Emma Fullick testing their resolve by undertaking a Parachute Foundation Training Course (PFTC) in Cyprus.

The course was five days long and by day two they were learning how to pack their own parachutes, whilst continuing with their jumps for the rest of the week.

The Sqn is now looking forward to a well-earned AT water-sports package in Newquay now that the ceremonial season has drawn to a close. This activity will be a fantastic opportunity to recharge the proverbial batteries, as well as enhancing the confidence of the soldiers who have recently completed their military swim test.

8 LCpl McGuire completing the London Marathon

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THE SUSTAINER | OTHER UNITS

Defence Munitions (DM) Kineton Station TEMPLE HERDEWYKE CO: Maj J D Rendall • SSM: WO1 S Brennan Defence Munitions (DM) Kineton has been without much of its processing capability since Apr 2017, due to infrastructure issues.

But in Jun 18, it regained use of eight of its 11 APBs after work had to be done to repair the alarm systems.

Legacy Returned Ammunition Group (RAG) is the unit’s biggest focus now as it needs to process all ammunition returned from field units across all three services and get it back into a fit state to be redistributed to where it is needed.

Despite this additional challenge, it will not affect the vital receipt, storage, maintenance and issue of ammunition to front line commands.

Cateran Yomp On the 9 Jun, six military personnel completed the Cateran Yomp. This was a 54-mile trek in 24 hours up at Perthshire, Scotland. All six troops completed the march raising £2500 for the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF).

This was one of the most physically and mentally demanding events that the soldiers have untaken and having completed it, they will be in a better position in their military careers when faced with arduous events.

The ABF's organisation of the

event was superb and the troops are already thinking about returning next year to beat their time!

Defence Engagement (DE) Being the largest ammunition depot in Europe, Kineton often attracts visitors from all over the world. This visit saw a delegation from Oman deploy to Kineton for a two-day visit.

Since the UK is one of the leading authorities in explosive safety and

8 Cateran Yomp arised £2500 for the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF)

storage, this was a fantastic opportunity for the Omanis to learn and carry forward best practice for their own ammunition safety.

This level of DE is crucial for the UK military to maintain its forward learning posture as experts in ammunition safety and management.

Social Media Kineton Station has been active on Facebook for over a year now and a 12-month review was conducted to gauge its success.

It has seen a 471% rise in page followers with over 270 posts. This level of success is of great benefit to DM and the AT trade, as it looks outwards to display the outstanding efforts of its workforce and make the wider public more aware of what it does.

Now it is looking to the next 12 months where it will continue to increase its reach and branch out to Instagram. If you would like to keep up to date, then follow the unit @KinetonStation.

8 Shell processing at Kineton

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

2 Operational Support Group RLC (2OSG) GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col A Hoey• RSM: WO1 A Clayton 2 Operational Support Group (2OSG)’s HQ has had a busy few months, particularly for the SPSI WO2 Alistair Booton and civilian pay clerk Mrs Dawn Harrison, who have been burning the midnight oil while trying to get to grips with the new Reserve Army Pay System (RAPS).

Due to the introduction of the Army BCS policy, PSIs SSgt Alex McAnally and Sgt Adam Nodwell, along with the rest of the training team, have implemented a new structure to the way the group conducts weekend military training for this and future training years.

This was tested in the second week of May 2018 at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham, when the group came together for the first MATTS package for the unit this training year. The format for the training and testing has been revised from a four-day package to a three-day package as MATT 1 is now being run separately over three weekends for the group to achieve ACMT range standard.

The training team and permanent staff worked hard to bring together an engaging and interesting few days and the feedback from the officers and soldiers was that it was a resounding success.

Included on the agenda was Battlefield Casualty Drills, which proved a popular subject with WO2 Paul Finnemore, demonstrating dressing a headwound using a triangular bandage.

500 Communications Troop 500 Comms Tp deployed on the annual field exercise, Ex GRIFFIN SPANNER 2018 to support 104 Battalion REME at Swynnerton Training Camp.

The first four days were spent

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practicing communications with the reservists and the remaining four days were with the regulars. As per previous years, the airwave was busy around the clock giving all members of 500 Comms Tp valuable ‘air time’ over the net utilising all Bowman equipment and voice procedures to the maximum.

Upon arrival to Swynnerton the first task was to fill all VHF manpack and FFR radios for 17 teams and then brief each team.

Once all teams were briefed, they were sent on their way to their first hide location and so Ex GS18 commenced. Comms were established with all teams and a constant listening watch was put in place.

500 Comms Tp worked around the clock, providing all teams with grid locations, timings etc, along with any other detail sent from BHQ. LOC STATS and PERSREPS were requested from each team and sent to BHQ using Bowman on an hourly basis.

Morale was high and as per

Once all teams were briefed, they were sent on their way to their first hide location and so Ex GS18 commenced. Comms were established with all teams and a constant listening watch was put in place.

8 The training team and permanent staff worked hard to bring together an engaging and interesting few days

previous years, Ex GS18 was a valuable and enjoyable experience for everyone, with praise given to the troop for its performance and support over the eight days.

Group HQ 2 Ops Sp Gp RLC has seen a few personality changes in recent months and said farewell to Maj James Phillips on his departure on Op TRENTON, but was pleased to congratulate him and his wife Victoria on the birth of their son Alexander.

WO1 Condon left the group on retirement from the Army Reserves and WO1 Amanda Ward is congratulated on her appointment as the RSM for 167 Regt RLC. The group has welcomed a new Training Major into the fold, Maj (Arthur) Askey RLC and his family from DCLPA, Lt Col Wilson Turkington on his appointment as Senior Officer 498 (LSU) and Maj Richard Paton as the new Group Second in Command.

As a nationally-recruited reserve unit, 2 OSG is always on the lookout for new talent, get in touch for further details.

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THE SUSTAINER | OTHER UNITS

The Band of the Royal Logistic Corps DEEPCUT, SURREY DoM: Capt O Jears • DMaj: SSgt P Young The Band of The Royal Logistic Corps has had an extremely busy year so far. From musical ventures of high quality recordings, to more physical experiences in various adventurous training, the Band has once again shown great versatility.

Most recently the Band has shown colourful spectacle and British pageantry Changing the Guard, alongside 3 Regiment RLC both on the forecourt at Buckingham Palace and in the grounds of Windsor Castle. This is the second time the Band has assisted with public duties in the last twelve months.

As part of the run-up to the summer season, the Band headed to Lille to partake in the Citadelle 300, a musical tattoo showcasing various military bands from around the world. This gave it its first opportunity to display a collection of pieces from the well-known Marvel films such as The Avengers and Captain America.

Highlights Other than its regular Friday trip to Pirbright for passing out parades, the Band was lucky enough to provide musical support for one of the 2018 Sovereign’s Parades on the illustrious steps of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

A highlight for the Band this year was performing on the square alongside a parade of representatives from the Corps, in the presence of HRH The Princess Royal and The Master General of Logistics, Lieutenant General Sir Mark Poffley KCB OBE, to commemorate 25 years since the formation of the Royal Logistic Corps.

The celebrations went on into the evening, which consisted of The RLC Big Band’s live debut of Camilla Caballo’s Havana. The Band has since produced a music video for this track, which was recorded and edited by Musn Alexander George and directed by the Band Sergeant Major, WO2 Paul Kent.

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Another guest performing alongside the Big Band was Louis Dowdeswell. Louis is one of London’s up and coming young lead trumpet players and YouTube sensation.

This is the second time the Band has had the privilege of playing alongside this inspirational musician. He also featured back in October when the Band hosted a concert, ‘A Journey Through Jazz’ in the Tela Theatre.

Recognition The Band is very fortunate to have some world-class players. In Feb, Staff Sergeant John Storey was invited to perform at The United States Army Band Tuba-Euphonium Workshop.

John is a virtuoso who is well known in the UK for his musical excellence. He performed the Allen Feinstein Euphonium Concerto with the US Army Orchestra.

The ‘off-season’ is the perfect time for the Band to enjoy other activities. Last Sept, the Band was lucky enough to travel to

8 Staff Sergeant John Storey with Colonel Andrew J. Esch, Commander of the US Army band (Pershing’s Own)

Bavaria in Germany to undertake adventure training.

Hill walking, rock climbing and mountain biking enabled everyone to individually leave their comfort zones, improving team building and leadership skills. These aspects were enhanced again when they travelled to North Wales in Feb 18 to experience the British climate and different terrain.

Sport is always supported and a large part of army life for members of the Band. In May 18, Lance Corporal Samuel Fuentes Moreno played for The RLC Hockey Team in the final of the Army Hockey Tournament. The team beat the AGC 3-1 in a fast paced match to lift the plate.

After summer leave, the Band is looking forward to Sept when it will travel to Canada to perform at the Spruce Meadows’ Masters Tournament in Calgary.

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion (ARRC) GLOUCESTERSHIRE CO: Lt Col N Thomas QDG • Adjt: Capt R Gibbs • RSM: WO1 M Cox It has been a busy summer for the ARRC Support Battalion. Soldiers have deployed on a variety of exercises and expeditions including LFTT in Brecon, Kayaking in Cyprus, a Patrol Competition in the Peak District and mixed AT in Snowdonia.

The Bn has provided the British Army marching contingent for Belgium’s National Day celebrations commemorating the fallen from the First World War and welcomed Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal to open it’s new Gurkha Messing Hut and meet members of Imjin Station.

Coming up in Autumn is the Bn’s CT3 exercise to continue testing the new concepts of smaller deployed headquarters and its subsequent smaller footprint on the ground, enabling the CO to test the Bn before deploying on Ex FLYING JAVELIN, a 1 Signal Brigade Communications exercise. This will prepare the Bn for the major ARRC exercises next year in Norway and Germany.

Royal visit On 4 Jun 2018, the Bn had the honour of hosting The Royal Logistic Corps Colonel in Chief, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal. This was the first time that she has visited the Bn in its history and served as a double commemoration of both the 25th Anniversary of the Bn’s formation and the 25th Anniversary of The Royal Logistic Corps.

Her Royal Highness was welcomed to the Bn by a Quarter Guard of soldiers and the CO at Battalion Headquarters where she was introduced to key members of the unit.

Met outside the Station’s new messing hut by Capt Ganeshprasad Gurung QGE and his wife Mrs Shanta Gurung, Her Royal Highness was briefed on the importance of Gurkha Messing Huts. The Princess Royal was then introduced to Gurkha soldiers from across the Bn and their families before officially opening the messing hut for use.

8 The Battalion’s Catering Troop has continued its tradition of excellence this year by winning a rack of awards at Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 18

After a Bn photograph, The Princess Royal met members of the Bn, their families and the wider community in the Officers’ Mess.

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The Bn’s Catering Troop has continued its tradition of excellence this year by winning a rack of awards at Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 18

Ex ARMY SUSTAINER The Bn’s Catering Troop has continued its tradition of excellence this year by winning a rack of awards at Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 18.

This year all chefs from the Support Battalion participated in the competition. They were involved in different cooking categories ranging from improvised cooking to fine dining. Sgt Pun QOGLR led what is traditionally the Bn’s strongest event, the Open Field Improvised Cooking Competition.

His team consisting of himself, LCpl Marape RLC and LCpl Gurung QOGLR and they had a lot to live up to as the Bn has maintained the title for the previous three years.

The aim of the event is to test units in the construction, planning and production of an innovative and nutritious two course meal for 20 personnel in an operational environment. A mystery box of fresh rations is handed to the team from which competitors have three hours to produce their meals.

17 teams of three entered the event, being released every 30 minutes from 0830hrs onwards.

The team was ready to serve by 13:20. The judges were very impressed with not only the taste but also the food presentation, making the special attention devoted to it more than worth it.

At the end of the day all teams were paraded for the results. To the relief of the team and the joy of the Bn, the team came in first place and had held on to the trophy for a fourth year!

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THE SUSTAINER | OTHER UNITS

Defence Petroleum Training Squadron (DPTS) DORSET CO: Maj N Swift • Sqn WO: WO2 C Lamb

Squadron highlights this quarter for the Defence Petroleum Training Squadron (DPTS) include deploying on Ex TIGER ARCHAEOPTERYX, a level two adventurous training package.

Expertly organised by Sgt Brad Wootton, it was based out of The RLC's Low Gillerthwaite Field Training Centre in the Lake District.

The six-day package covered a mix of mountaineering and mountain biking over some beautiful and challenging terrain.

All levels of ability in the Sqn were certainly stretched to, and beyond, their comfort zones; clocking up more useful log book days for future instructional courses. Sgt Craig Melrose especially seemed to enjoy the 2IC's (Capt Karl Pitt) leg down

the scree slopes of Great Gable!

LCpl Nikki Christie in comparison, as lead mountaineering instructor, chose some rather more sedate routes for his legs around the Lakes.

As well as the hiking, Capt Jamie Brooks and Lt Laura Brooks led a series of hard mountain biking days.

Sgt Andy Clements, one of the more experienced riders, set the bar high by blazing and blasting through the single-track courses among truly wonderful forest scenery.

Accommodation in the lodge and the lack of Wi-Fi and phone signal, was strangely refreshing and brought the Sqn closer together after each day's hard training in front of the large open fire. The 2IC's selfcatering cooking was also exceptional, as was the smooth

8 Squadron team photo at the RLC’s Low Gillerthwaite lodge in the Lake District celebrating a successful week’s level 2 adventure training

administration of all the logistic requirements in the background taken care of by WO2 Carl Lamb.

This package was an excellent and rewarding week adventurous training. The Sqn's personnel seemed to have bonded well and are now in a position to advance their AT careers, develop themselves more fully and appreciate where their boundaries lie.

Welfare improvements Back in West Moors Camp, DPTS opened part of a new station welfare facility on 27 Jun 2018.

Fondly christened as 'The Pittstop', it will provide families and trainees a recreational centre to socialise.

The £46,500 LIBOR grant DPTS successfully secured has created a social area with an excellent industrial coffee machine, adjacent to a new children's indoor soft play area and games console room.

Phase 2, with external assistance from the Royal Engineers, will see a kitchen, games rooms, junior ranks club and cinema created before Christmas 2018.

8 SSgt Craig Melrose, Sgt Ben Calloway and Capt Karl Pitt take a breather on the ascent of Scaffell Pike in perfect conditions

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

821 Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Search Squadron WIMBISH OC: Maj A Hambley • SSM: WO2 G Masters RE

821 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Squadron has been busy with EOD and search teams conducting role specific training and validation to provide support at readiness to the Air Assault Task Force and Lead Commando Group.

There has also been range UXO clearance in Kenya; recovery of soldiers from Op SHADER and HALLEX; a Sqn level exercise; two soldiers on LONGLOOK in Australia; Ex JEFLIVEX with 16 Air Assault Brigade and numerous successes on EOD&S courses.

Training & validation 821 EOD & Search Sqn ran Role Specific Training (RST) and Validation from 7 to 25 May 2018 for EOD and Search Teams.

This consisted of a two-week intensive programme designed to take a qualified Defence Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Operator and enable them to carry out Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD) operations in the contingency operating environment using JSP 364.

The well-designed package utilised the training area and facilities in and around Carver Barracks Wimbish and consisted of theory and practical elements.

Practice tasks were completed to bring out relevant training points

such as threat appreciation and planning to encompass the increased complexity and add to the operators’ skill set enabling the EOD team to conduct tasks overseas.

Following RST was Validation; a week where each team completed three IEDD tasks in order to receive a six-month authorisation. Overall, RST and Validation is an extremely effective method of ensuring EOD teams are suitable qualified to carry out their role wherever they are deployed in the world.

Joint Expeditionary Force Live Exercise (JEFLIVEX) In Apr 2018, 821 EOD & S Sqn RLC, incorporating an EOD Team from Estonia deployed to SPTA to support 3 PARA and 2 Jutland Dragoon Regt (JDR), Danish Cavalry, in a multinational readiness JEFLIVEX. Among the standard EOD serials that were conducted involved keeping the lines of communication open to both Bdes and securing key national infrastructure. The Sqn was also able to utilise some new techniques it has been developing.

This concept of Close Support EOD allows for rapid actions to be conducted when operating in an assault environment.

The exercise was a great success for the Sqn and helped establish a sound working relationship with 16

8 Cpl “Gaz” Batten talk through the reduced EOD team kit layout with members of Alpha Squadron, 40 Commando Regiment

Bde meaning it can be utilised correctly and quickly when required.

Exercise HURRICANE RAID 2 In Mar, the Sqn deployed to Longmoor Training area for a week long light role EOD exercise, the main aim of which was to refine standard operating procedures when conducting urban operations in conjunction with 40 Commando’s CQB Squadron.

During the week, refinements were made to basic skills for efficient fire, movement and extraction of a team carrying EOD and search kit, on top of the weight of their standard assault equipment.

Additional stands included multiple building clearance, which introduced the factor of where best to place the EOD operator for optimum effectiveness. Equipment search in darkness, where team commanders had to maintain constant command and control of their searchers.

From this exercise the Sqn has taken away training outcomes that can be used to formulate updated standard operating procedures for the use of reduced EOD and Search teams within urban operations.

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THE SUSTAINER | ADVENTURE TRAINING

By Lt Jake Ardley, 3 Regiment On 30 Apr, 25 days after the Royal Logistic Corps’ birthday, 25 soldiers representing the 25 regular and reserve regiments in the Corps departed for one of the nations World Heritage Sites, the Lake District. Their aim – to climb the 25 highest mountains in seven days.

Each member of the team would carry approximately 20kgs of kit and equipment, including waterproof and warm clothing, sleeping bags, tents, food and water. The challenge not only tested the team’s ability to carry weight over distance, but it also tested their teamwork and navigation skills as they battled snow, rain and limited visibility on numerous occasions.

After two days of preparation, kit issuing and recces, the team were itching to start their challenge. The minibuses were filled with excitement and tension as each soldier prepared themselves for the physical and mental challenge ahead of them.

Testing times Day one took in six mountains, including the tallest in England, Scafell Pike. For the first 14km the weather stayed fair and visibility good, but after some time it started to hail and snow. The team encountered a grade 1 scramble and had to lower their bergans to a plateau 4m below to safely conquer the scramble. After a

8 3 Regiment on High Street

25 peaks for RLC25 further 3km of trekking, the team finally came to rest at Red Tarn and pitched their tents for the night under the stars.

On the morning of the second day, the team rendezvoused with the administration team near the Three Shire Stone Pass.

Sgt Dave Goodchild, leading the administration team, arrived precisely on time armed with fresh water, tea and coffee and a full breakfast for every soldier.

Once the morale had been replenished, the team departed for the next day of mountains, accompanied by CO and RSM 159 Regiment RLC, Lt Col P Allen and WO1 R Clarke. The team summitted Great Gable, a towering

beast of 899m, in intense rain and extremely limited visibility. The morale that had been raised that morning had once again been whipped away.

After a navigational error due to limited visibility, the team were almost stuck on a ridge just above Little Hell’s Gate, a grade 3 scramble. The decision was made to call the day off early, having only peaked one of three mountains, before it got too dangerous and attention and concentration was lost. Lt Belinda Wilson then navigated the team across the side of Great Gable, across metres of scree that moved wildly underfoot, to a path some 300m below and down to the safety of the Wasdale Head Inn for a warm drink.

The third day gave warm weather but enough shade to prevent sunburn whilst climbing Grasmoor and Eel Pike. The route followed a gradual re-entrant, with two natural waterfalls along the way, providing the perfect place to refill water. This was definitely one of the most scenic routes. Although only two mountains were climbed, the team still walked 10km throughout the day.

Searing heat Day four was in the Eastern Fells, with the team summitting Skiddaw, Skiddaw Little Man and Blencathra.

8 The knife edge from Helvellyn to Catstye Cam

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ADVENTURE TRAINING | THE SUSTAINER It was an early start, so as to avoid the heat that was due later on in the day.

Cpl Dave Cookson initially led the team up Blencathra, guiding them along the steep route he was very familiar with. Nearer the summit, the visibility was poor and a slowmoving scramble stood between the team and the top. WO2 Andy Johnstone paused the team, explained some rope techniques that would be employed throughout the scramble, and then started the team off again. Within 20 minutes, they were at the top and chewing on some snacks.

The weather was completely different on Skiddaw and Skiddaw Little Man, with clear skies and bright sunshine over both mountains. The route to Skiddaw was almost road like; wide, flat and sturdy enough to hold a vehicle.

This made the going easy for the team, so much so that they finished early enough to grab some lunch in Keswick.

On day five, the team climbed seven mountains, including Helvellyn, a 950m monster enclosed by knife edge scrambles to the surrounding mountains.

This day was over the Bank Holiday weekend and the temperature was extremely high, requiring regular hydration and application of sun cream.

The route was covered by other

walkers keen to enjoy the weekend and weather, making for great conversation over a 20km trek.

Although the day was long and included many mountains, it was one of the most enjoyable and included a grade 2 scramble that provided an exciting few minutes of hand and footwork for the team to reach Catstye Cam. On day six the team split in two.

One group completed the planned mountains for that day and the second group returned to the Western Fells to climb the two mountains missed on the second day. Both teams were extremely lucky with the weather, with 2Lt Chris Chant taking a dip in a tarn located along the route by Red Pike to cool off.

Final push On the final day there was just one mountain to climb – High Street. It was the 25th mountain on the list and the 25th highest.

High Street sits at 828m and is named after the Roman road that ran over the summit.

The start point for the final day was in the carpark of the Kirkstone Pass Inn, a small public house sitting in a valley. Visibility was poor for the duration of the walk due to a lack of sunshine, but morale was high because the team knew that the challenge would be complete after the summit.

8 One of the small waterfalls passed on day three

Even the administration team decided to take part in the final climb and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity. After a couple of hours, the team were at the summit of the final peak.

After seven days of walking, over 9600m of ascent and 108km of walking, the team had completed the challenge.

The team spent over 15 minutes taking photos of the summit, enjoying the final moments of what had been an exhausting but exhilarating challenge. The day finished with a group meal at a local restaurant, followed by celebrations and a well-deserved sleep.

There were whispers among the team of sadness that the event was coming to an end. They had been tested, as both individuals and as a team and had bonded and forged friendships through a physically and mentally difficult event.

Every member of the team should be extremely proud of themselves and have proven to be ambassadors of their individual regiments and the Corps.

Thanks go to: Lt Belinda Wilson, 2Lt Chris Chant, WO2 Andy Johnstone, Sgt Dave Goodchild, Sgt Jim Heath, Cpl Jordan Kidd, Cpl Beverley Robinson, Cpl Karl Byatt, Cpl Martin Jackson, Cpl Dave Cookson, LCpl Sean Callan, LCpl Ganesh Gurung, LCpl Atma Gurung, LCpl Ronnie Tracey, Pte Harold Baker, Pte Cameron Carnegie-Brown, Pte Min Gurung, Pte Saroj Thapa, Pte Luke Brennan, Pte Daniel Bick, Pte Glenn Hutchinson, Pte Cody Jarrett, Pte Ransford Ofosu-Baako, Pte Krishna Gurung and Pte Kyle Piper.

8 The team at Scafell Pike - England's highest mountain

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THE SUSTAINER | ADVENTURE TRAINING Potential officer, Lance Corporal Ben Spurway, a member of 210 Squadron 151 Regiment RLC, has been training with London University Officer Training Corps (LUOTC). Last year he was invited to join a fifteen-strong crew, led

by Maj Terry Hackett of LUOTC, on a two-week adventure training exercise on-board ‘Adventure’; one of the Army’s two Challenger 72’ ocean going sail training yachts ‘.

Ex ARCTIC EXPRESS aimed to challenge participants in a demanding environment and to develop their individual and team skills. During the expedition, the crew had to contend with a variety of conditions, including a Force 7 in the bleak North Atlantic and minimal sleep in a very unforgiving environment.

LCpl Spurway takes up the story.

Following an 11-hour minibus trip to Dunstaffanage in Scotland, we exploded out of the cramped vehicle like shot from a canon.

Waiting for us was our Skipper, Maj Terry Hackett, 1st Mate WO2 Kelvyn Sauvary, and 2nd Mate OCdt Tom Simons.

We were to sail from Oban to Stornaway; Stornaway to the Faroe Islands and the final leg was from the Faroe Islands to Reykjavik. Leg one proved to be the busiest, and physically hardest, part of the trip.

While we had a real mix of abilities and experience on-board, every member of the crew faced a steep learning curve. Not only did we have to quickly become familiar with the complex workings of a

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Ex ARCTIC EXPRESS

CH72, we also had to contend with living and working with each other in close confinement, in an everchanging environment. To ensure the boat was effectively managed 24 hours a day, the crew was split into three watches; Red, White and Blue. Each Watch would take turns to undertake the various tasks necessary to keep us in a ship shape and orderly fashion, whilst the others prepared meals or rested.

By early Tuesday morning we were ready to slip our lines and the skipper glided Adventure confidently out into the Sound of Mull. We were excited about what lay ahead, but none more so than OCdt Lauren Gault. it was her first time at sea!

By the end of the first day, after eight hours of training: winching, grinding, and hauling the crew were

8 Ex Arctic Express White Watch physically relieved to see the bright and colourful houses adorning Tobermory’s sea front slip into view.

Next day we sailed into Loch Harport.

Its steep flanks protected us from the elements and allowed a serene cruise to our evenings resting place on the Isle of Skye.

At 0400 the next morning we set sail for Stornaway, some 60 miles to the north. However, the day wasn’t to be without incident. To capture the quiet majesty of our stunning surroundings Sgt Ryan (4 PARA) took the opportunity to capture the scenery on his Phantom Drone. Having taken off from the open deck, the drone was not more than six inches in the air, 8 Ex Arctic Express Team

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ADVENTURE TRAINING | THE SUSTAINER before it caught a line, flipped upside down, and dived over the rail into the Loch. Before anyone could react the very expensive professional aerial camera platform, which we were all so excited to have on-board, began its new career as an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle!

As we cleared the Loch the wind vanished. Greeted by a wall of dense sea fog, we had no choice but be engulfed by this thick cotton wool blanket. We finally broke free of its clutches later that afternoon, but with no wind, we had to endure the monotony of motor sailing for the final leg to Stornaway. Our spirits were lifted when we were joined by several pods of Common Dolphins and Harbour Porpoises.

Next, we faced a three-day ocean passage to the Faroe Islands.

However, without any wind it was to prove quite uneventful. After a relaxed 0700 start we slipped out into the North Atlantic, quickly getting into the routine of the three-watch system. Each watch lasted four hours, and we took it in turns to be either ‘Duty Watch’ or ‘On Watch’ (responsible for sailing the boat and keeping the Ships log), or ‘Off Watch’ (asleep) for 4 hours, until it was your turn to be ‘Mother Watch’ (which involved preparing all the meals.

As we slowly crept north, apart from occasional sail alterations or minor course corrections, the hours crawled by. Being ‘On Watch’ was pleasant given the weather was so mild, and the sea so calm, but more importantly we could escape the loud drone of the engine below. Being so far north it never actually got dark. Our bodies became confused, and increasingly more tired, unsure whether they were supposed to be awake or asleep. When stood down there was a sense of urgency amongst the weary crew to maximise the four hours’ sleep afforded to us. Our handovers became quite perfunctory, with nothing more than a sleepy nod, and “a nothing to report since you were last here” response.

Eventually in the early hours of the third day at sea, the dark shadow of the Faroe Islands loomed on the horizon, like a sleeping giant. By mid-morning we

8 LCpl Ben Spurway Helming

were passing the steep rocky shores of the Southern archipelago, clearly able to identify small settlements nestled in nooks and inlets of the mountainous terrain.

As we steadily made our way to the Faroes’ capital Torshaven, we could only wonder at what kind of lifestyle the inhabitants of these remote islands must lead. Yacht Adventure finally crept into Torshaven harbour.

waves towered over us, breaking around us like swarms of giant angry wasps, we felt like a child’s toy at bath time. This was Adventure Training. This is what we had signed up for.

The two-day passage to the little fishing port Vestmannaeyjar, on a volcanic island just south of Iceland, passed in a blur. Everyone had exciting stories to tell when we were finally able to venture ashore.

Sail changes in the dead of night.

Waves crashing over the bow, swamping the deck. Crew members engulfed in icy waters.

How little sleep we got as the boat persistently pitched and crashed as it fought the rough seas. But as the crew took the opportunity to relax in the local swimming pool, enjoying the hot thermal pools, water slides, and showers, little did

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To ensure the boat was effectively managed 24 hours a day, the crew was split into three watches; Red, White and Blue. Each Watch would take turns to undertake the various tasks necessary to keep us in a ship shape and orderly fashion, whilst the others prepared meals or rested

The town crowds the waterfront and covers the surrounding hills like a glacier; stretching down from craggy mountain tops overlooking the bay to the seashore. Colourful turf clad houses, nestle near the water’s edge like jittery antelopes around a waterhole, while large industrial units stand sullenly in the background. Bright traditional fisherman’s huts, that hint to the port’s fishing heritage, stand alongside modern apartments and hotels. Yachts and small fishing boats bob in the marina, next to large container ships; Torshaven’s lifeline with the mainland.

We left the Faroe Islands the next evening. The wind finally began to strengthen, filling our sails with strengthening resolve. The boat lurched and thumped against the restless sea. Any doubts we had as to the power of the North Atlantic quickly vanished. The beast had awoken and it made it very clear who was in charge. Adventure is a very capable boat and has endured much worse than this. But as the

we know what was waiting for us during our final leg.

The wind was steadily increasing and during the final 24 hours of sailing from Vestmannaeyjar to Reykjavik we were to encounter a cheeky Force 7. Once we had slipped from refuge of port, heading NNE for the final run home, even hoisting the sails became immensely challenging. It was clear we were in for a rough ride. All through the night the ‘On Watch’ were required to change sails and reef the main several times. No easy task in heavy seas. But the crew did well. The training from leg one was now paying off. Time taken to complete each task was dramatically reduced.

It truly was a memorable experience.

Ex ARCTIC EXPRESS challenged all participants. Providing a dramatic and demanding environment which successfully developed individual sailing skills, as well providing plentiful opportunity to develop team and leadership skills. Acknowledged by all to be a resounding success, I would highly recommend it.

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THE SUSTAINER | OBITUARIES

8 Lt Col Frederick Collier RASC

Lt Col Frederick Collier RASC was murdered by an EOKA terrorist, while gardening at his house in Limassol on Sun 3 Aug 1958. He was 46 years old. He had been working as the Assistant Director Supply and Transport in HQ Middle East Land Forces for one and a half years, having previously been the CO of the RASC Depot Battalion in Buller Bks. According to the EOKA leader Grivas, the attack was led by Pavlos Pavlou, who fired one bullet into the Colonel’s back at short range and as he fell fired three more into his body. Grivas sent Pavlou his congratulations. Collier’s death was the 86th death to be claimed by EOKA. In early 2018, Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux presented

the family with the Elizabeth Cross in the Aldershot Garrison Officers’ Mess. The presentation was attended by The RLC’s Controller of Welfare.

Launched in 2009, the Elizabeth Cross is granted to the next of kin of armed forces personnel killed on operations or resulting from terrorism in conflicts dating back to 1948, including the Korean War, the Malayan Emergency, the Falklands conflict and operations in Northern Ireland as well as recent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. It is a mark of national recognition for their loss.

Details on how to apply can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ request-for-the-elizabeth-cross-andmemorial-scroll

LAST POST Abbott – On 14 Jul 2018, Maj JN Abbott TD RCT Aldridge – On 8 July 2018, Mr J Aldridge (John) RAOC Blackburn – on 4 Feb 2018, Mr W Blackburn RCT Blackhurst – On 1 December 2017, Mr (ex-WO1) P J Blackhurst BEM (Paul) RAOC Bland – On 26 May 2018, Mr G A Bland (Grahame) RAOC Bowen – On 14 March 2018, Mr J Bowen (Jim) RAOC Brett – On 30 June 2018, Mr C C Brett (Cyril) RAOC Campbell – On 17 March 2018, Maj E W Campbell TD (Bill) RAOC Carey – on 22 May 2018, Brig CJ Carey RCT Chapman – On 19 May 2018, Captain D W Chapman (David) RAOC Cornock – On 27 April 2018, Maj Gen A R Cornock CB OBE (Rae) Late RAOC Curd – On 20 March 2018, Capt R V W Curd (Ronald) RAOC Dawson – On 2 May 2018, Mr (ex-WO2 (SQMS)) B M Dawson (Barry) RAOC Donnelly – On 21 January 2018, Maj L Donnelly (Leonard) RAOC Edwards – On 3 April 2018, Mr (ex-WO2(CSM)) R Edwards (Known as Jim) RAOC Field – On 23 May 2018, Mr FE Field RASC Francombe – On 28 April 2018, Mrs R Francombe (RCT) Goodall – On 13 June 2018, Lt Col S G Goodall DL (Steve) RAOC Gourlay – On 6 Jan 2018, Maj RJ Gourlay TD RCT Haggerty – On 26 June 2018, Maj J A Haggerty (Jack) RAOC Harper – On 17 March 2018, Mr (ex-WO1 (Cdr)) E I Harper (Ernest) RAOC Hazlewood – On 6 March 2018, Col G A Hazlewood (Graeme) Late RLC Holliday – On 2 July 2018, Capt (AEO) R Holliday (Bob) RAOC Humphreys – On 16 Jul 2018, Maj JE Humphreys RCT Hustwayte – On 29 Jun 2017, Mr J Hustwayte RCT Ingram – In Jan 2018, Mrs M Ingram (RCT) Johnson – On 23 Dec 2017, Maj FSM Johnson RCT

88

Kimmins – On 28 May 2018, Lt Col J M C Kimmins (John) RAOC Knight – On 5 Mar 2018, Mr A Knight RCT Machin – On 1 June 2018, Mr (ex-Sgt) S Machin (Steve) RAOC Mclean – On 16 Mar 2018, Mr A Mclean RCT McGee – On 29 May 2018, Mr T McGee RCT O’Brien – On 5 Aug 2018, Mr J O’Brien RCT Partridge – In Oct 2017, Mr PW Partridge RCT Patrick – On 27 Jun 2018, Capt WA Patrick RCT Pinson – On 15 May 2018, Mr A E Pinson (Alan) RAOC Pitt – In Feb 2018, Mr W Pitt RCT Prior-Sanderson – On 8 April 2018, Maj R H Prior-Sanderson (Bob) RAOC Purton – On 7 Feb 2018, Mrs J Purton (RCT) Rowson – In Feb 2018, Mr G Rowson RCT Rush – On 24 February 2018, Maj R W Rush (Ron) RAOC Salway – On 8 May 2018, Capt B E Salway (Barry) RAOC Sandison – On 21 June 2018, Mr J G Sandison (James/ Sandy) RAOC Scott – On 28 February 2018, Lt Col R D E Scott (Robert) RAOC Searle – On 27 March 2018, Mr (ex-WO1 (Cdr)) E J Searle (Jim) RAOC Shepherd – On 6 May 2018, Mr N G I Shepherd (Neville/Bill) RAOC Slade – On 6 May 2018, Mr (ex-WO2) R D Slade (Roger) RAOC Smith – On 3 April 2018, Mr (ex-WO1(SSM)) C B Smith (Clive) RAOC Smith – On 12 March 2018, Mr N Smith (Nigel) RAOC Tennant – On 30 October 2017, Lt Col C M Tennant GM (Colin) RAOC Thomas – On 9 Jan 2018, Mrs A Thomas (RCT) Thomson – On 13 April 2018, Mr P C Thomson (Paul) RAOC Todd – On 17 June 2018, Mr N J Todd (Neville) RAOC Tomlin – On 1 April 2018, Mr P Tomlin (Philip) RAOC Trend – On 23 Apr 2018, Mr D Trend RCT Trotman – On 10 July 2018, Mr R H Trotman (Richard) RAOC Walker – On 23 Aug 2017, Mr MR Walker RCT Ward – On 3 May 2018, Maj D C P Ward (David) RAOC West – On 12 July 2018, Mr (ex-WO2) T West (Tom) RAOC Whalley – On 26 April 2018, Maj Gen W L Whalley CB (Bill) Late RAOC Wood – On 7 May 2018, Capt J W Wood (John) RAOC

www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

SPORTS LOTTERY

g n i t r o p S A e c n a h C

SPORT CONTROL BOARD

THE ARMY SPORTS LOTTERY IS CELEBRATING ITS SILVER ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR To mark our 25th year on 1 April 2018 we increased the weekly prize money from £25,000 to £30,000. Every week members will have the opportunity to win the following prizes: 1st Prize

£10,000

2nd Prize

£5000

3rd Prize

£4000

4th Prize

£3000

5th Prize

£2000

6th Prize

£1000

Consolation Prizes 2 x

£500

15 x

£200

10 x

£100

Since its creation in 1993 the Army Sports Lottery has: • Raised £45 million in proceeds • Given £20 million in cash prizes • Awarded over £23 million in grants to Army personnel In addition the time between visiting Zone 4/5 countries has been reduced so you can now go once every 2 years The Army Sports Lottery is a non-profit making organisation that exists to support sport in the Army For further details visit our web at: www.armysportslottery.com

CONTACT US ARMY SPORTS LOTTERY Fox Lines, Queen’s Avenue, Aldershot, Hampshire, GU11 2LB Tel: 01252 787065 / 94222 7065 Fax: 01252 787066 / 94222 7066 Email: lottery @ ascb.uk.com DII: ASCB-ASL-Clerk Web: www.armysportslottery.com