Punchlines Christmas 2016 by Punchlines Magazine

Christmas 2016

The Garrison Information Office would like to thank you for your amazing entries in the Christmas competition.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inside Christmas 2016

features 16 Spotlight

We ask Revd Justin Bradbury the big questions

30 Commission Success

Three WO1s are selected for Commission

17 Ebola Battle

34 Ex SNOW METHOD

18 Round Of Appaws

38 Wattbike

26 Remembrance 2016

48 Need to know

Major Julia Symons receives the Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Commendation

1 MWD take on a gruelling canine biathlon

Westfalen Garrison commemorates

Taking on the snow at Kaunertal Glacier

cover image Creative Christmas * Poppy Bedford * Class 8cp John Buchan School Showing her winning creative flair on the front cover.

Push yourself to the limit in the Wattbike winter league

Check out the latest holiday info

Punchlines is produced by the Garrison Information Office and is published by Commander of Westfalen Garrison on behalf of Commander of 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade.

Brigadier Mike Elviss Commander | 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade

want to open this edition of Punchlines with some heartfelt thanks. First and foremost, thank you all for your Herculean efforts over the last few months. The Brigade has been working extremely hard as we head towards “readiness”, more of which in a moment, and I am acutely aware that the work is not done exclusively by those of us in uniform. We are superbly supported by our families and the depth and strength of that support continues to amaze me. Well done. The imminent Christmas break is richly deserved. Thank you in particular to Poppy Bedford, from Class 8cp at John Buchan School, whose magnificent picture has been selected as the cover image for this edition. All the entries are simply spectacular. Thanks to the Punchlines team for delivering this new-look magazine. I am determined to make this magazine yours, and this edition marks the start of the journey. Keep us straight, make comments (positive and negative), tell us what you want and above all keep telling us all about your fantastic work throughout our community. In addition, I have 3 themes for you to consider as we head towards January: security, readiness and the Christmas break.

While the threat to BFG has not changed 2016 has been witness to a number of terror attacks across Europe. Accordingly, it is timely to sharpen the focus on our collective security. Culturally, there is a sense that any UK registered car, or a British voice means an individual is part of our community. We are currently too relaxed. You will notice a change in culture in our security posture; we need to get better at looking after ourselves. In future, a polite request for ID should be welcomed as contributing to our collective safety; I urge you to play your part in changing our behaviour for the better. Nurture a culture of polite challenge and help to safeguard our people. We have trained hard through 2016 and our reward is to be recognised as the Army’s “Very High Readiness Brigade”. With this comes responsibility to respond on behalf of our nation and, for 2017 especially, NATO. 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade also takes on the role of NATO’s Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (the VJTF). This is a significant responsibility and it demands subtle changes in our behaviour to ensure we are able to respond if our nation and her allies need us. Personally, I will spend 2017 at 48 hours notice to move. My passport will be at work, my bags permanently packed and my family understands that I might need to deploy, very quickly and at least initially, for an uncertain period of time. Any holidays will be insured! I know your Units will brief you in detail but please make sure you’re ready and that you really understand what this commitment entails. Lastly, relax and enjoy Christmas here in Germany. Christmas markets, glühwein and snow (hopefully?) combine to make a German Christmas truly magical. I close where I began with thanks. Have a great break and I look forward to seeing you refreshed and ready to face the challenges of 2017!

2016 has been a busy year for all units in 20 Armd Inf Bde as they prepare to take over the lead of the VJTF

Before every BATUS and in conjunction with the UAPs of 5 Rifles, 1PWRR and QRH; 1AMR have ensured they are prepared to support 20 Armoured Infantry Brigade as both a training audience and real life support. The key focus being the individual clinical skills of its personnel tested across a range of scenarios from basic life support to major incidents. Notably, personnel from Bundesweher (2 Sanitats Regiment) and US Army (421st Multi functional Medical Battalion) also supported an exercise and partook in several serials. This allowed 1AMR to create an integrated healthcare system in a

multinational environment preparing personnel to be held at readiness for both Vanguard and VJTF. The Regiment fielded a team for the Expert Field Medical Badge, a prestigious competition run by the US army in South Germany. At the Land Component of Power Visit, the Regiment was able to display its potential. At every stage of the training year 1 AMR has been on hand to provide medical training and real life support to 20 Armoured Brigade, from multinational NATO exercises to local training serials.

The focus of the Duke of Edinburghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Squadron of the Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Royal Hussars has been on training and readiness within the 1PWWR Battlegroup, which will be the UK armoured infantry battlegroup contribution to VJTF. One of the most significant training events in preparation for assuming readiness was national certification, which took the form of Ex PRAIRIE STORM 2 in BATUS. Combined arms live firing and simulated combat which pitted the 1PWRR BG against a free play enemy was grueling by itself; add in mosquitoes of biblical proportions, unseasonable weather (and therefore mud) and a training staff charged with testing troops to the limits

VJTF

This training ensures that all medical force elements taking part in clinical assurance can operate as a networked, agile, integrated and layered healthcare system - key to the delivery of effective healthcare on operations.

made for a remarkable month on the prairie. The highlight in preparation was Ex VENERABLE GAUNTLET - readers will not have failed to notice the influx of over 3000 troops from 14 nations across the Alliance with all manner of unfamiliar vehicles and equipment. DofE Squadron led a high profile manoeuvre where Challenger 2 tanks simultaneously led British Warriors, Estonian armoured personnel carriers and Polish infantry fighting vehicles into the assault with support from Danish, Norwegian, Romanian and Spanish troops. The effect was overwhelming, with added special effects as the range caught fire, all adding to the sense of occasion. The Sqn is ready for 2017. 5

1AMR have been focused on preparing for their upcoming deployable year. One of the key training pieces for this has been a series of clinical assurance and validation weeks, cementing their position as the Premier Medical Regiment.

Normandy Barracks Sennelager

Remembrance Sunday

â&#x20AC;&#x153;They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn; at the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.â&#x20AC;?

Army Press Office Germany

Chiron Barracks Sennelager

Military Working Dogs Read the full story on page 18

bad lippspringe

Bonfire Night

Read the full story on page 14

Simon Pim Hogben

>> If you, or anyone you know, is in need of support and assistance, SSAFA may be able to help. Contact your Welfare Officer, AWS, BFSWS or your Padre. All of these people can raise a request to SSAFA on behalf of soldiers or their families in crisis. >> If anyone would like to volunteer, fund raise or help in any other way please contact Loulou Thorne at ssafa-sec-paderborn@hotmail.co.uk

Big Brew Up

Sarah commented: “I was delighted to join the SSAFA Paderborn team as Chair when we arrived in Germany and it is a privilege to be part of the fantastic work that they do. I have been involved with the charity in the past, but I am overwhelmed by the outstanding commitment that exists here in Germany. “In the last six months SSAFA has made 14 grants to deserving soldiers and their families living in our immediate community, giving over €7000 in total. We

get an enormous range of requests, from help with emergency travel costs to unexpected childcare costs due to illness and incapacity. We also support welfare and community groups with the excellent work they do.” The most recent spate of fundraising saw Big Brew events raising over €4000 with each Regiment showing huge commitment. 1 Armoured Med Reg ran a stretcher race to generate funds and the Normandy Welfare Centre hosted a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. 35 Engineers and 3 Bn REME also held tea parties and raised large sums.

raised a show stopping €1552.10 in total. The winner, Charlie Rigg, was announced live on BFBS radio. QRH raised over €300 by providing hungry soldiers with tea, bacon baps and cake. Their UWO joined wives from the Regiment to compete in the Gutersloh Half Marathon, with Capt Neil Rudd first to cross the line followed by Joanne Payne-Faulkner, Sarah Meenan and Karen Comiskey, raising another €650 on the day.

On 16th November Sarah Elviss presented cheques to Jim Griffiths MBE and Robert Miller of the RBL, the 1 PWRR soldiers and families ABF and the BundeswehySozialwerk charities. This were treated to more cakes money was raised at the than they could eat and the SSAFA Summer Fête and Tigers Free-fall Parachute is their contribution to Display Team raffled off community charities. a tandem skydive, which

Loulou Thorn, SSAFA Secretary, said: “The organisation of the Summer Fete was a gift from SSAFA to the local forces community to say thank you for all their hard work and support over the years. We were staggered by the event’s success and, although fundraising was not the objective, we unwittingly managed to raise some extra for charity, which we are delighted to be feeding back into the wider community.” Wolfgang Mann followed by saying: “On behalf of the Bundeswehy-Sozialwerk I thank you so much. It was a great pleasure to assist at the Summer Fete, which we really enjoyed.”

The SSAFA Paderborn Committee presents their new Chair, Sarah Elviss, who now presides over the Garrison’s primary fundraising organisation. Sarah Elviss moved recently from the UK to join her husband, Brig Mike Elviss, Brigade Commander.

Bonfire Night

2016 November, Gunpowder treason and plot.

Saturday 5th November saw hundreds of people gather at the sports fields in Bad Lippspringe for the annual Garrison bonfire night, with buses bringing many event goers in from Bielefeld, GĂźtersloh, Paderborn and Sennelager.

The evening began with the best guy competition, judged by Paderborn Station Commander Lt Col John Mateer. With over 20 excellent guys up for consideration, it was a tough task to pick out a winner. First prize went to a team from Gesamtschule DelbrĂźck, and another team from the same school also took 2nd place. Bishopspark School not only won 3rd place, but also took the special prize.

The tradition of the event dates back to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, and the bonfire did not disappoint. Atmospheric lighting and some pyrotechnics saw the tower of Big Ben set alight before engulfing the whole bonfire in flames. The fantastic firework and laser light display showed the skies lighting up as the audience watched on. Children had their pick of sparklers, balloons and

glow-sticks, while the hog roast and fish and chip stands did a roaring trade. The success of the event was thanks to the dedication of the team from Paderborn Station, especially CSWO WO2 Pete Wyatt and 35 Engr Regt, as well as volunteers from St John Ambulance and of course to all those who attended the spectacular event. For events; check www.bfgnet.de/calendar

emember, R remember the fifth of

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR COMMUNITY

The Reverend Justin Bradbury is Padre to the Queen’s Royal Hussars, and also offers chaplaincy services to 1 Armoured Medical Regiment. Until January 2015 he was chaplain to 1PWRR. We asked him a few questions in the run-up to Christmas.

People imagine you have always been a minister, but what, if anything, did you do before joining the Army as a Padre? I served as a curate (trainee vicar) in Devizes, Wiltshire. Before that I was at Oxford and, in an earlier incarnation, an estate agent in Marlborough - proof positive that God redeems everything! In the distant past I trained as an architectural and art historian. The after-effects of this are alive and kicking in that I am still easily distracted by anything visual – I definitely have a form of OCD when it comes to pictures and books being askew.

What does Christmas mean to you? It’s a pause in the relentless schedule (padres are on duty 24/7). Once the Christmas services are over, I catch up with friends and family, but most of all, it is an annual reminder to me that God does not keep His distance but makes His love up-close and personal in sending His Son, Jesus, to be with us. Christmas proves to me that God wants a relationship with us, and will stop at nothing to reach us.

What is your favourite thing about living in Paderborn? I love the quietness of the Paderborners and the order of life here. I also have a weakness for German cake and the ice cream parlours – my record so far is 12 scoops!

What are your highlights of the past year? My time with 2 SCOTS on OP TORAL in Kabul, and my time in BATUS with the QRH battle group on Prairie Storm 3. It is always great to spend more quality time with the lads and lasses. Sadly, I also made two trips to the UK to conduct the funerals of one of my best mates and my last surviving grandmother. I am always the priest as well as the friend and relative. That was tough.

The photo suggests you like your PT? This came to me late in life (I turned 50 this year), but the Army makes a priority of fitness, and so I have no excuse. Last year I ran the Berlin Marathon and this year I have been working on pull-ups and the gym work in general. I made good use of the bars on the Challenger 2 in BATUS, regularly challenging the lads to pull-up competitions – I didn’t always lose.

What present do you want to find under the Christmas tree this year? A new training watch would be great. The Garmin Forerunner 235 GPS Running Watch would do nicely. The only snag is that as a family we put a ban on presents some years ago. Looks like I might have to add it to my Amazon Wish List!

Major Julia Symons The Royal Logistic Corps SO2 Logistic Plans Sierra Leone, May - Oct 2015 Queen’s Commendation For Valuable Service

Major Symons

Symons oversaw the planning and movement of the National Ebola Response Centre from an adhoc city centre location to a new bespoke site. This was a remarkably complicated project with 150 personnel to be moved from more than ten different organisations and agencies without any loss of capability. Despite a relative lack of project management experience, Symons was magnificent. Her planning was meticulous, and the execution of the move a master class in coordination and synchronisation. That every department moved on time, in perfect order and with absolutely no drop in output was testament to the brilliance of her planning and delivery. She was later charged with delivering the urgent refurbishment of two Sierra Leonean Ebola treatment centres. Symons threw herself into every challenge of the deployment and delivered beyond all expectations. Hugely respected by our Sierra Leonean hosts and by all our partners in this Ebola battle, Symons is highly deserving of formal recognition.

Presentation of Awards to Outstanding Persons in the Fight against Ebola It has graciously pleased his Excellency Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Supreme Head of State, Grand Commander of the Order of the Republic, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Fountain Head of Unity, Honour, Freedom and Justice, to make the following Awards to deserving persons for their invaluable contribution to the fight against the Ebola Epidemic in Sierra Leone.

‘

and in Africa g in k r o e r w utb ak? ke o li s it u s io a r e w What g with such a s type dealin ne on this

a Leo Iraq and g in Sierr paigns in nt workin m re tly a fe c if t d n e ry importan to rec It was ve and most y ompared se c m a t e e n n e e is d m e y e with th ecame th of deplo g b n li la a o e g b n D E weri that tan. it. Empo Afghanis n, meant eradicate ontractio c d ge and g n a n a n ti a it n m e id prev mselves t to avo e h g th u to fo ll v ’s was ery onean and we a e disease Sierra Le th g n te ri the a to in n exterm taught in and me ations to rocesses is p able. n d lu a n a rg v a o in ls t direc on skil ms was g le in b ss ro a p P x g. dif ferent ple rewardin solve com dership, a a to le w e o v h si n a persu ods and military o d immense rmal military meth e ir u eir ideas q re It also an no owning th th to h c in a ls ro a u app pel individ ess. tact and cc ow to com h su g to n ri h e g st u ma cts thro je ro p g in and see

GOLD MEDAL In recognition of her support to the Government and people of Sierra Leone during the Ebola crisis, Major Symons is an excellent logistician who coordinated and oversaw the seamless move of the National Ebola Response Centre (NERC) from its old base at the UN Special Court into the new Emergency Operations Centre at the Joint Forces Command Headquarters at Cockerill.

’ 17

deployed as part of the UK’s response to the Ebola crisis in West Africa. As the logistical planning officer for the Combined Joint Inter Agency Task Force, she has been at the very forefront of the battle to contain and defeat the dreadful outbreak.

Round of Appaws Army Press Office (Germany)

Army Press Office (Germany)

Thursday 20 October 2016 1 Military Working Dogs Regiment Canine biathlon, Chiron Barracks Sennelager 18

The competition was designed to test physical fitness of the dogs and their handlers. “It is a cross-country course over open and wooded terrain that covers about 5 miles,” explained WO2 Paul Jobling. “Each soldier and dog team is timed and when tasks are not completed properly, we add extra minutes as penalty.” It took the majority of the teams about 38 minutes to complete the course. On the way, handlers and dogs had to crawl under a camouflage net and run through the ice-cold water of a stream.

RESULTS Individual Protection Team 1st Pte Gayton & MWD Apo 102 MWD Sqn 2nd

Pte Hanford & MWD Lali 105 MWD Sqn

Search Team 1st Pte Clarke & MWD Justice 102 MWD Sqn 2nd

Pte Hempstock & MWD Rex 102 MWD Sqn TEAM

1st 2nd

Soldiers had to lift and carry their military working dog through a slalom parcours and had to cross a 2 meter high wall with their dog. The tasks were designed to test the willingness of the dog to accompany his handler under difficult and demanding circumstances and the mental abilities of both whilst being physically tired. “These different tasks test the dog control demonstrated by the handler. Not all dogs like to be lifted, for example, so if they are not successful here, they will have to do extra training,” says WO2 Paul Jobling.

102 MWD Sqn Cpl McAllister, LCpl Darnyshire, Pte Clarke, Pte Sutcliffe (Overall event winners)

“We have different types of dogs with different training and abilities. Therefore we also have different categories for rating their performance in this competition. The protection 105 MWD Sqn Pte dogs have to attack and bite an intruder as a specialist task. And of Cridland, Pte course they also need to demonstrate Hempstock, Pte Jones, that they let go again on command Pte Lynas of their handler,” explains WO2 Paul Jobling.

he handlers and their trusted furry companions took to the obstacle course in six-minute intervals. It was a cold, wet day and yet everyone was smiling (especially the dogs) as they battled round the course. The competition certainly tested the physical and mental fitness of the dog and handler as they ran round the gruelling sevenkilometre course. There were various obstacles to navigate, including rolling terrain, river crossings and man-made fences.

Bollywood nightS

‘’

We are always looking to y and engage with the communit pebble e th is t n e v e is th e p o h e w . I’m re tu fu e th r fo d n o p e th in ala G d o o w y ll o B e th d te h g li e d Night was such a success. ra Pam Flo

ielefeld in-service SSAFA volunteers organised a spectacular night of colourful eastern entertainment with over 130 members of the community from Paderborn, Gutersloh and Bielefeld attending. While raising money for SSAFA, the event was also raising awareness of the charity within the BFG community.

solo dances from Mandisha Rana, Community Support Bie Stn, performing solo for the first time. The SSAFA team work hard to raise awareness of the charity and raise money that can be utilised to support individuals in need with our own community. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can contact Ms Pam Flora at 69 Sqn, 29 RLC Catterick Bks.

Food for the evening was provided through JB’s NAAFI contractor with the agreement of Keith Bates, the new executive chef, who kindly supported the event. The service and quality of the food was tremendous; thanks to the amazing spread laid on by the two Chefs.

Pam said, “We are always looking to engage with the community and we hope this event is the pebble in the pond for the future. After speaking to people tonight they all enjoyed the mixed array of entertainment and I’m delighted to say the Bollywood Gala Night was such a success.”

Both young and older members of the community had a fantastic time, and the event attracted a large number of the single soldiers, male and female. The entertainment for the evening was provided by belly dancers and guests had the opportunity to have henna tattoos painted on. The best-dressed competition culminated in a dance off between a single soldier from Bielefeld and a REME soldier from 26 RA, and Mrs Jo Goddard and Mrs Mandisha Rana. During the evening two ladies from the Bielefeld Nepalese community, Sonia Sampang Rai and Alwin Nirusanam, told a moving story through dance, followed by two

She went on to say, “I was thanked with emotion by the public. In fact no one was quite ready to go, even by midnight the guests wanted to stay and enjoy the magic moments. The costumes and effort put in by all, was incredible to see. I would like to thank the Station Commander Lt Col Tony Christie for his support, the Welfare team, the SSAFA team, Lt Col Danny Wild’s team, those that worked behind the scenes especially Sgt Ish Kamara and the crew from 29 Regt, and of course the public who made the party a great success.”

Organised by Bielefeld SSAFA To get involved visit: SSAFA.org.uk

Crossword Nr 31 Christmas/New Year 2016 3

5 8

Sudoku

4 6 2

6 18

28 25

26 31

7 9 6 8

20 21

Scrabble Dabble

N K C E G

6 4

Logic Problem

Lee

2. No return after her bird appears (5) 3. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unable to quench mariners thirst? (5) 4. Knight the Spanish took first as supplicant (5) 5. Initiate general order before invading desert (4) 6. Joy as toenail explodes (7) 7. Negative total given to friend is perfect (10) 10. Speak out as responsible officer is consumed by Victory in Europe (5) 11. Frustrate former partner as school sport got consumed (10) 12. American store returns inner city transport (4) 13. Storage facility for slippery oils (4) 17. Loads rucksacks (5) 18. Would you give out your last one? Alternatively return look (4) 19. Sounds like we have a choice! (4) 20. Broken stapler used to fix wall (7) 22. Looks after you when vehicle collides with emergency room (5) 24. Sows reaps gains piece of asparagus (5) 26. Can bale out (4)

1 6

Ellison

Down

Case

Across 1. A wedding talk he used to introduce comic tale of zombie apocalypse (3,7,4) 8. Chatter about penny for babies toy (7) 9. Arranged an evil hat for sea monster (9) 11. Deliver two points with conviction (7) 14. Hold gear (6) 15. Add total (3) 16. Like a policeman? (7) 19. Being relatively quiet? (3) 21. Turn white arranging 26d before church (6) 22. Puzzle as church takes on fusilier (7) 25. Cast a stain as a princess is unmasked (9) 27. Worshipped always in red (7) 28. Hidden gems erudite bar user dug up and replaced (6,8)

8 2 3

Notes:

3 7

8 Day

3 7

5 Day

4 Day

Vasquez

Thornton

10 Day

9 Day

January February March April May 4 Day 5 Day 8 Day 9 Day 10 Day Help the Secretary of State sort out which of her diplomats she needs to send out next. Determine the month and destination of each diplomat, and the duration of their visit. Clues 1. Thornton wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave for the 4 day visit. 2. The ambassador with the 10 day visit will leave 1 month after the ambassador with the 5 day visit. 3. The ambassador with the 5 day visit will leave 1 month after Case. 4. Lee will leave sometime after Vasquez. 5. The ambassador with the 5 day visit is either the person leaving in March or Vasquez. 6. Ellison will leave for the 8 day visit. 7. Ellison will leave 2 months before Vasquez.

How many words of 3 letters or more can you make using the Scrabble letters above. There is at least one seven letter word. Target: Fair 5, Good 10, Excellent 15 words. Answers available via email: punchlines.magazine@gmail.com

FINDING DORY

FUNWORLD

event, children had to put FTheyortheirthis detective skills to the test. were given a bag of clues,

t Funworld they completed A a course through the ball pit, soft play area and then at

which led them to different areas on camp. If they got it right, they found a mini picture of the loveable characters from the movie, including Dory and Nemo.

After this, the PTIs laid out an amazing obstacle course for the children to complete. Lynne Thompson said: “The course was so good that the kids wanted to stay there all day.”

Home-Start Gütersloh arranged lots of wonderful half term events. It was an opportunity for families to come together to take part in the Finding Dory Hunt, the Toy Story Day and the Halloween Party. All of the events took place throughout October.

HALLOWEEN spooky night enjoyed A by all. Children were encouraged to come in fancy dress and take part in an evening full of games and dancing. The parents even got involved by wrapping toilet rolls around ‘mummies’ to make ‘mummies’.

26 RA set up a scary walk in a cellar to end the day. They sent a zombie to collect the children. The parents went too and were probably screaming louder

other stations completed word searches and join the dots.

The children also then got a chance to take part in a competition. They then brought back the mini pictures and created under the sea pictures with them and the two best pictures won prizes. It was such a fantastic event that everyone enjoyed.

TOY STORY Contact +49 (0) 5251 101 866 homestartbfg@gmail.com www.home-start.org.uk

here were three rooms set Tincluding out with character themes Hamm, Buzz

Lightyear and Mr Potato Head. The day started with some cake decoration where the children made their own butter frosting and then later added a Toy Story character to the top.

Later that day, the children watched the Toy Story movies and ate burgers.

than the kids!

दशै ँ

Dashain Facts

--- Sgt Premraj Rai

(Dashain)

On the 22 October 2016 Bielefeld Nepalese community hosted a Dashain celebration for all the Nepalese community across Westfalen Garrison. The invited guests and community were entertained by Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas, who put on an amazing evening of cultural music. Nepalese friends from Gütersloh and Paderborn joined the celebration.

before been experienced on this scale within the Military community. By mid-evening the band and guests became one and celebrated the evening together. The ladies of Bielefeld were not keen for the band to finish and kept persuading them to stay later and later. The event was an ideal time for soldiers from the Brigade to catch up with friends they had not seen for years.

The event was pulled together by Sgt Premraj Rai, with the support of the Bielefeld Community Support team. Sgt Rai took the opportunity to thank the guests and members of Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas and conveyed his Dashain greetings on behalf of the Nepalese community. Chef Cpl Gurung from 2Fd prepared the fantastic Nepalese food.

Sgt Premraj Rai said he is keen to make this an annual event across the Garrison and that the emphasis needs to be put upon those community leaders to bring the 3 Nepalese communities together. Bob’s Den is a great location, accessible to use and everyone needs to make the most of it.

The Band from the Brigade of Gurkhas played cultural Nepalese music, which was well received by everyone that attended the event, dressed in their traditional clothes. All expressed their gratitude for this spectacular event, which has never

WO2 Ian Lewis (CSWO) commented how important it is that members of the Nepalese community, who may at times feel they are a minority group, are recognised for what they bring to the community and are supported in celebrating this important festival in their calendar.

According to Hindu’s religious history, Dashain commemorates a great victory of the Gods over wicked demons. One of the stories told is the Ramayan, where the Lord Ram after a big struggle slaughtered Ravana, the fiendish King of Demons who had kidnapped his beloved wife. It is said that Lord Ram was successful in the battle only when Goddess Durga was evoked.

The main celebration glorifies the triumph of good over evil and is symbolised by Goddess Durga slaying the terrible demon Mahisasur, who terrorised the earth in the guise of a brutal water buffalo. The first nine days signify the nine days of ferrous battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahisasur. The tenth day is the day when Mahisasur was slain and the last five days symbolise the celebration of the victory with blessing of the Goddess.

Dashain falls during the month of Kartik (late September and early October), the time when Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year. It is the longest and most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country.

The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon. Throughout the kingdom of Nepal the Goddess Durga in all her manifestations are worshipped with innumerable pujas, abundant offering and thousands of animal sacrifices for the ritual holy bathing, thus drenching the Goddess for days in blood.

Dashain is celebrated with great rejoice, and Goddess Durga is worshipped throughout the kingdom as the divine mother Goddess. Thus, Dashain is not only the longest festival but also the most anticipated one among all the festivals of Nepal.

WO2 Ian Lewis Mfotography

~ Treatment in Reserve ~ Sennelager 2016

During the exercise the specialist Army reserve Regiment, who count doctors, nurses and paramedics among their number, covered various training packages designed to develop their clinical, military and command skills in a military environment.

“Training here in Germany is a fantastic opportunity for the Regiment,” explained Lieutenant Colonel Bill Allen, Commanding Officer of 335 Medical Evacuation Regiment. “We have a wealth of experience and expertise in the clinical fields and this exercise provides us with a chance to apply these skills in a military environment. Also, being able to work alongside 1AMR is obviously beneficial in enhancing our military skills and

prepares our soldiers for any future deployments that may arise.” Over the course of the exercise the Regiments exchanged their knowledge through the provision of a Resuscitation Council UK Intermediate Life Support (ILS) training course - that led to formal qualifications for all - and a medical planning session on field based command training that included direction on the medical estimate and the differences that exist between the military and NHS processes. For Corporal Shelley Ann Magic of 1AMR, who attended the ILS, working with the reservists had been really enjoyable adding: “I think it’s really important that we can continue to train with them, particularly as we prepare to go into our training commitment year in 2017. They bring a lot of different skill sets to the training and fresh eyes to problems and we are able to share our military skills with them. I have never undertook a course like this before, it has been really

interesting, I am enjoying it and of course new skills are always really useful to have.” The final phase of the exercise saw the reserves deploy in the field to conduct battlefield casualty drills, patrolling, section attacks, field-craft skills and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear training. Participating in her first exercise Corporal Danielle Prosser, a 28 year-old paramedic with the West Midlands Ambulance Service, said of the training: “The experience on this exercise has been incredibly rewarding, it is a very different environment to the one I am used to but I have learnt such a lot in a short period of time, skills which will undoubtedly help me in both careers in the future.”

ixty five reservists from 335 Medical Evacuation Regiment have recently enjoyed a successful two week visit to Germany for their annual camp where they worked alongside 1 Armoured Medical Regiment (1AMR), one of their paired regular units.

Remembrance

Army Press Office Germany Simon Pim Hogben

Remembrance 2016

Volkstrauertag The National Day of Remembrance

In a very moving ceremony, the traditional Remembrance Day Service took place by the Cenotaph outside the Headquarters, 20th Armd Inf Bde. The service was conducted by HQ Westfalen Garrison Chaplain, the Revd H M Rendell CF and supported by the Buglers from 5 RIFLES.

Germany too mourns its fallen from the armed forces as well as the many communities touched by the hand of war. The focus though remains on two traumatic World Wars where many millions of Germans lost their lives to war and the crimes of the national socialist Government in power. It is a time of deep reflection for many Germans, particularly older generations. Our Remembrance Day periodically coincides with German Volkstrauertag and this year is one such date, whereas normally it falls on the date after our Remembrance Sunday.

There were further services across BFG including Barker Bks, Paderborn which was conducted by the resident units, 1 PWRR, 35 Eng Regt and 3 (CS) Bn REME, and also in Bielefeld and GĂźtersloh.

Just as we invite members of the German community and the Bw to our Remembrance Day ceremonies so it is also traditional for BFG elements to take part in the Volkstrauertag ceremonies of the German civil authorities at Bw, Land and Stadt level in the communities we live. We also lay poppy wreaths, and the German authority ceremonies often take place at cemeteries.

During the service wreaths were laid by Commander 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade - Brigadier M Elviss MBE, Commander Westfalen Garrison - Colonel J Connelly and Commander, Paderborn Station - Lieutenant Colonel JST Mateer IG. In addition officials from Stadt Paderborn, Kreis Paderborn and the German Military Representatives also took part along with Garrison community groups.

Official opening

Attenborough School

riday 7 October marked the official opening of Attenborough School on Normandy Barracks. Children, parents and service personnel came together for an outside assembly to celebrate the historic occasion for BFG.

The new name ‘Attenborough’ was generated along with a number of suggestions. The choice of Attenborough School seemed the most fitting as it reflected the school’s close association with the nature and wildlife

“

Brigadier Mike Elviss, Commander 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade, went to visit the newly opened Attenborough School. He was greeted by Mrs Alex Thorp, the Head teacher of Attenborough School, and was shown around each classroom giving him the opportunity to meet teachers, children and to see the fantastic facilities that are on offer.

found in the area. The school’s logo, which consists of a Kingfisher, represents the merged schools and the wings that all-encompass the culture of the school community.

each classroom is named after a Galapagos animal. For the assembly, each class was tasked with presenting a short piece of information on their animal.

In keeping with the Attenborough theme,

Later, parents were invited back to the

classes to look around the different learning environments. The school would always encourage parents to get involved with any future events at the school.

uld have ent that you sho lim p m co t a re g ol. t is a me of your scho na e th r fo e m s as chosen my na oing so. It sound d r fo h uc m ry ins Thank you ve the school conta d un ro a e id ys tr though the coun s. nimals and plant a g in st re te in f o a lot

“

n Friday 21st October, Attenborough School held a Poppy Fun Run. The children from the foundation stage (FS), held a ‘Red day’ and completed various activities in school. The rest of the school (Year 1-4), travelled up to the community athletics pitch and participated in the fun run. The children all did a fantastic job and enthusiastically

completed as many laps as they could in the given time. They were delighted to be joined by Mr Jim Griffiths, who has been raising funds for The Royal British Legion, and supporting the school runs for the last few years. Although the weather was a little chilly, the day was a huge success and the children helped raise a brilliant €273.05.

The Royal British Legion

P ppy Fun Run

The Poppy Appeal is the Royal British Legion’s biggest fundraising campaign held every year in November. The first Poppy Appeal was held in 1921, the founding year of The Royal British Legion. Red silk poppies, inspired by the famous First World War poem In Flanders Fields, sold out instantly and raised more than £106,000. The funds helped WW1 veterans find employment and housing after the war. The following year, the Poppy Factory was set up, employing disabled ex-Servicemen to create the poppies to sell during the appeal. The factory still produces millions of poppies each year. Each year, an army of volunteers distribute the iconic paper poppies throughout the nation, collecting donations in return to help support the vital work done for the Armed Forces community. Volunteer with the RBL: Contact Jim Griffiths MBE on +49 (0)5254 4208

Simon Pim Hogben

WO1 (SMI) Mandy Harrington WO1 (SSM) Jay Wheeler WO1 (ASM) Rob Walker

20 Armd Inf Brigade Commission Success during this deployment, on her R&R, that she married her husband Gareth, also serving in the RAPTC, who then deployed on OP TELIC 11; one wedding, one handover. Upon completion of this assignment she persuaded her husband to another wedding and they renewed their vows in 2009, followed by a handover of the PD facilities and role of 1 RHA to her husband. Two weddings, two handovers.

WO1 (SMI) Mandy Harrington WO1 Mandy Harrington has recently been selected for a Commission in the RAPTC. Commenting, WO1 Harrington said: “I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to have been selected for commissioning and I’m really excited about the future.” Entering the Army Careers Office in Dundee in the summer of 1995; by October she was on her way to ATR Pirbright to join the Royal Logistic Corps, spending 8 years as a supply controller and a physical training instructor in a host of different countries and operations. In 2004 she passed RAPTC Selection, transferring in June 2005 she taught at the Army School of Physical Training in Aldershot as an All Arms PTI Instructor, deploying her PT knowledge to 6 AAPTI courses. In 2007 she was given acting SSgt and was posted to 1 RHA to deploy on OP TELIC 10. It was

She was selected to work at HQ RAPTC in the Training Development Team in 2009, deploying to Kosovo to design a Physical Training Course for the Kosovo Security Force. This awarded her the opportunity for an assignment to the CGS Army Inspectorate as a WO2, including being part of the assurance team for Op Olympics. In 2013 WO2 Harrington was assigned to ATR Winchester where she managed and led a team of 24 RAPTCIs, PTIs and SIOs, and here she gave birth to her daughter Tilly. WO1 Harrington was assigned to 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade Headquarters in 2015.

‘’

I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to have been selected for commissioning and I’m really excited about the future.

WO1 (ASM) Rob Walker WO1 Rob Walker started his basic training at ATR Pirbright in Sept 1995 to become a Craftsman within the Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers. After his successful completion of basic training, he spent a year at Prince Phillip Barracks, Bordon to learn his trade of a Vehicle Mechanic.

WO1 Jay Wheeler enlisted into the RLC in September 1993, aged 16, as an Apprentice Soldier at the Army School of Catering. After 18 months of catering and military instruction he passed out of training in April 1995. On completion of his apprenticeship WO1 Wheeler was posted to 6 Supply Regiment, Gütersloh. During his time at the unit he completed a six month tour of Bosnia. In 1997 he was promoted to Lance Corporal and posted to 1 Regiment Army Air Corps, where he deployed on numerous exercises including Medicine Man in Canada and two Exercise Uhlan Eagles in Poland. WO1 Wheeler also completed a six month tour of the Falkland Islands, attached to an Explosive Ordinance Disposal unit. During his time with 1 AAC he also completed both his Production NCO course and Military Proficiency Course and in December 2000 was promoted to Corporal and posted to Head Quarters Northern Ireland, assigned as Bde Leaky’s personal chef. In 2003 WO1 Wheeler was posted to 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in Belfast, and was recruited into the Battalion boxing team to become the middle weight champion.

Upon promotion to Sgt in 2005, he was posted to The Queens Royal Lancers in Catterick and deployed out of trade on Operation TELIC 8. On his return he was promoted to SSgt and on completion of his Unit Catering managers Course was assigned for six months to the British Army Training Centre Belize. At the end of 2008 he was posted to 35 Engineer Regiment as the Unit Catering Manager and in 2009 received his Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. In 2011 WO1 Wheeler was promoted to Warrant Officer Class Two and posted to 28 Engineer Regiment as the Regimental Catering Warrant Officer and deployed on Operation TOSCA 19. He was selected to Warrant Officer Class One and on his return assumed the position of Food Service Warrant Officer 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade, where he has served since 2014.

After his time at Lyneham, WO1 Walker commenced his 18 months Artificer Vehicles training in Bordon, becoming a substantive SSgt upon completion in 2009 and was then posted to 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards, Sennelager, where he saw operational deployment to Helmand Province as part of the Brigade Reconnaissance Force (BRF) on Op HERRICK 15. Upon his return, WO1 Walker was assigned to 3 Close Support Battalion REME as the Operations Warrant Officer. Whilst in this role, he assisted

Following promotion to WO2 (AQMS) in 2013 he moved desks to 5 Armoured Company as a Platoon AQMS. Whilst in this role, he provided equipment support to Paderborn units and assisted in the planning and execution of repairing the Stored Operational Fleet located at Theatre Fleet Support Unit (Germany). Upon selection for promotion to WO1 (ASM) in 2014, he was selected to be the 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade, Brigade Artificer (BArt), where he has been part of the HQ staff preparing for VJTF. WO1 Walker has been selected to be commissioned into the REME, which he sees as a great honour and privilege. WO1 Walker said: “Although there are no guarantees in what the REME and the Army have in store us, my family and I are looking forward to the next part of our journey.”

WO1 Wheeler said: “I have been blessed with a fantastic and extremely enjoyable career and it has always been an aspiration of mine to gain a LE commission. It is thanks to the support of my subordinates and superiors throughout the years, but most importantly of my family that I have successfully been selected. We are looking forward to the new chapter.”

WO1 (SSM) J P Wheeler

During the first part of his career, he spent his time in Larkhill, Catterick and Lyneham. Throughout this time, he deployed to Northern Ireland and Iraq on operational tours, as well as seeing major exercises in Canada and Egypt.

in the deployment of Op Olympics and the BATUS Winter Repair programme 2012/13 and was awarded the Commander Land Forces Certificate for single handedly planning key Battalion commitments whilst senior key appointments were absent during unforeseen circumstances.

Spicing up school time

he aroma of spices teased the senses as many junior chefs scurry about the kitchen tasting their curry and kneading their naan breads. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d just walked into filming for Junior Masterchef. In reality, this kitchen is in John Buchan School. Students from Year 8 have been working on

John Buchan School their catering skills and the kitchen team from Tandoori Delights in Paderborn came in to give them some expert hints and tips.

chefs have a great knowledge of practical cooking and this exercise gives them the opportunity to cook on a mass scale.

Ex-Rifleman Tanuj Bugga, owner of Tandoori Delights, was impressed by the students’ passion and knowledge of food. Head of Design and Technology at John Buchan, Tracey Watts, said the young

The catering course teaches the students about fresh produce, diversity in menus, food hygiene and production from farm to fork. As Anna and Miracle check on their vegetable dhal, Anna explains that she’s

been practising this dish at home for her mum. Asking twelveyear-old Harvey what he’d make if he made it onto the real Junior Masterchef, his answer is instant: “A curry.” A call then goes up from Mrs Watts: “Fifteen minutes to service” and without skipping a beat, the junior chefs respond: “Yes chef!”

COOKING ON GAS BFG Chefs tested their skills against the best at the Inter Services catering competition.

is an inter-service catering competition, this year held at the Defence Capability Centre Shrivenham. A team of chefs from a range of units came together to make up the British Army Germany team, to compete in a number of different disciplines. Preparation for the competition began early and the team, headed by Captain Sgt Pete Moffat (3 Bn REME), had a busy three weeks of practise. Chefs were put through their paces and produced their dishes for the first time; a nervous moment for some. Cpl Lee Berry of 26 Regt RA, an experienced chef having already won a number of medals, not only competed but also mentored fellow competitors along with Sgt Moffat. Arriving at Worthy Down, they met up with the rest of

the competitors hoping to represent the British Army. Cook Offs then took place with up to ten chefs going head to head in each category, filtering the best to go forward to the main competition. Every chef from Germany made it through to join the Army Team. Competition week saw the chefs commute to Schrivenham from Rollestone camp on a daily basis with their rations and equipment. Three days of competition were hard fought between the services, with the Army being crowned Inter Services Champions. The Food Services Warrant Officer for 20 Armd Inf Bde WO1 Jay Wheeler, expressed his satisfaction on a job well done; noting that with less than 90 chefs from across BFG the success of the team is even more warranted.

Sgt Moffat 3 REME, Cpl Berry 26 RA Kitchen, Gold and Best in Class (Combined Services Champions) Sgt Moffat 3 REME, Sgt Winsper 5 RIFLES, Cpl Berry 26 RA Cook and Serve, Silver and Best in Class (Combined Services Champions) Cpl Glover, LCpl Williams, Pte Dugan 4SCOTS Cook and Serve, Silver LCpl Thomson 35 Engr Open Fish, Silver Pte Winnet 5 RIFLES Junior Chicken, Silver Pte Winnet 5 RIFLES Junior Fish, Silver and Best in Class (Combined Services Champion) Pte Nephew 35 Engr Asian/African/Caribbean, Silver LCpl Thomson 35 Engr Vegetarian, Silver Pte Cox 1 PWRR Open Buffet, Silver (Combined Services Champion) Pte Chapman 26 RA Junior Chef of the Year, Bronze and Best in Class (Combined Services Champion) Cpl Seerauj 35 Engr Open Lamb, Merit Pte Dugan 4 SCOTS Junior Chicken, Bronze Pte Dugan 4 SCOTS Junior Chef of the Year, Bronze Sgt Winsper 5 RIFLES Senior Grand Prix, Bronze

Ex JOINT CATERER

EX SNOW METHOD Kaunertal Glacier 2016

Results Open 1st - Matty Hannah 2nd - Mark Nicholls 3rd - Arran Dodshon Ladies 1st - Jess Drew 2nd - Liz Court 3rd - Lindsey Corrieri Novice 1st - Matt Major 2nd - Will Spiers 3rd - Mike Walsh

Get On Snow This Season Bispingen Snow Passes

Westfalen Garrison have purchased ten season passes for Bispingen Snow dome, with the aim of promoting all year round winter sports. They are available to rent for â&#x201A;Ź10 by getting in touch with Paderborn Community Support: Westfalengar-pad-stn-cs-mailbox@mod.uk

Skiliftkarussell Winterberg

One of the major ski resorts in Central Germany, Winterberg is located in the Hochsauerland region in North Rhine-Westphalia, and is roughly a one and a half hour drive from camps in Westfalen Garrison. For more info: www.skiliftkarussell.de/

AWSA

To create the opportunity for soldiers - from novice to expert - to take part in a broad range of exciting and competitive winter challenges. For more info: www.awsa.org.uk/

or the second year running, the charming location of Kaunertal, Austria hosted Exercise SNOW METHOD 16, the Army Ski and Snowboard Slopestyle Championships from 8 - 22 October 2016. The resort kicked off the season with the KTO opening weekend that invited ski and snowboarding amateurs and pros from far and wide to perform their tricks and skills in the park and kickers. This set an incredible vibe for the start of the Army championships; with a total of 90 riders from across British Forces Germany and the UK ready to hit the park. The aim of Ex SNOW METHOD was focused on the provision of training to riders of all abilities to develop and improve Slope style capabilities in a positive atmosphere, but also included a series of instructional courses: BASI level 1, a one week course, and level 2, a two week course, coached by instructors from Snowboard Coach UK. The first week started with the seven instructors from RIPSTAR Snowboard

School analysing the riders and splitting them into groups based on abilities. The advanced groups were the first in the park to blow out the cobwebs with those in the intermediate groups testing their skills on the piste and mastering balance and core ability. The progression that was made by the riders in the first week was incredible and the RIPSTAR coaches were thoroughly impressed at how far each rider had come along on their park work. Towards the end of the first week, the snow conditions deteriorated and became rather thin and icy, which made for some good bruises, however it also made each rider more aware of their approach and landing on each feature - which in turn, developed a more focused progression through the park that each rider took on board with lustre. With RIPSTAR leaving in the final week, Winter Olympic Slopestyle medallist Jenny Jones and prosnowboarder legends Mike Austin and Andy Nudds entered into the fray as snowboard instructors to help riders dial in their freestyle. With refreshed enthusiasm after a snowfall, the riders were keen to show off what they had learned in the first week.

The ladies opened the competition with some great skills being shown with 3 CS Battalions REMEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cfn Lynsey Corrieri showcasing her ability over a range of features. The novices were next down the course with some mightily impressive determination and courage, bearing in mind that some of these riders had never been in the park before the start of the exercise, it was fantastic to see. The open competition was set out further down the course with 2 options to take: the rails, the tubes, or a combination of both which finished with the spine as the last feature for either run. Needless to say, the open riders displayed some awesome and ever inspiring tricks, which roused the judges. At 1pm, all was done and dusted and the 2 weeks of hard work was over. A big thank you must go out to the Snowboard Coach UK, RIPSTAR coaches and of course Jenny Jones, Mike Austin and Andy Nudds for their invaluable input. We are looking forward to the Corps camps, Army and the Inter-services competitions later on in the 16/17 season.

EXERCISE SNOW METHOD 16 Written by Captain Liz Court RA

the 8th November 2016, the Paderborn Ladies Netball team played host to the Bielefeld Cougars at John Buchan School. Around 30 ladies came together to play and cheer along their team creating a great atmosphere for all involved. The set up of the game consisted of 4 x 15 minute quarters with rolling substitutes. One of the players from the Paderborn Ladies team said, “It was a really, really fun evening. Everyone was in such high spirits and all of the ladies put so much effort in.” The first round was won by Bielefeld, the second by Paderborn; with the same pattern following on to the final two games. The overall winner needed to be determined by how many goals were scored by each team. The scores were counted with the overall result being 22-22! Debbie Fairclough, Team Captain of the Bielefeld Cougars, said, “On behalf of the Bielefeld Cougar Netball team I would like to thank you all for a fantastic turn out, team spirit and for hosting us so well (and the prizes)! The standard of netball was exceptional from everyone, which made the umpire’s job easy! We look forward to hosting them in return very soon.”

For Info on clubs and societies; check www.bfgnet.de/calendar

EQUAL MEASURES Bielefeld Paderborn I

22-22 I

Game 1 IIII IIII III Game 2 IIII IIII II Game 3 IIII I IIII Game 4 II IIII -

SHA SHO O

Daz Blackett has been shooting sport pistols for the Army Pistol shooting team since 2014, competing at an international level. As a member of the Small Arms School Corps (SASC) and now as the 20 Armoured Infantry Brigade Training Team Quartermaster Sergeant Instructor (QMSI), he has started to employ his coaching and mentoring skills to develop marksmanship excellence throughout 20 AI Bde and other units in Germany. Blackett is part of the elite shooting programme Troops to Target which has been developed to allow the potential of our armed forces personnel to compete at the highest levels. As one of only two members of the SASC employed in the whole of 20 AI Bde, he has been a force multiplier in developing the shooting standards of not just the infantry but all cap badges. There are a number of different disciplines in which Blackett is training; one being the 10m Air Pistol. The competitor has 75 minutes to shoot 60 perfect shots at a scoring area of 10mm.

“This takes slow, methodical and repetitive practice to master. The GB selection score is 573 out of a highest possible score of 600.” In September, Blackett represented 20 AI Bde and the Army at the pistol championships at Bisley, coming second by a narrow margin of 12 points, having won last year. He partnered SSgt Andy Addison of the RLC for the inter-services match, winning and retaining this prestigious award for the Army. So what’s next? WO2 Blackett will be representing the Army at an international competition in Luxemburg. His goal is to qualify for The English National Squad (TENS), represent England at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and hopefully advance to the GB squad for Tokyo 2020.

The 20 AI Bde Training Team is now up and running with the ability to conduct live firing qualifications, Range Management Qualification (RMQ) courses, Combat Marksmanship Development courses, Small Arms Range Target System (SARTS) training and is keen to assist not just 20 AI Bde but any type of unit here in Germany.

Contact:Capt (AIW) Lee Jenkins 20x-g7-SO3-SASC@mod.uk WO2 (QMSI) Daz Blackett 20x-g7-QMSISASC@mod.uk Mil Ext 94879 2876 Or call into the training wing at Normandy Bks next to the NATO Officers’ Mess. 37

ARP OTE RS

WO2

Wattbike Winter League 2016 - 2017

WATTBIKE

The Winter 2016-17 Wattbike League is well underway.

he Winter 201617 Wattbike League is now well underway, running throughout the winter to keep individuals motivated with some healthy competition thrown in.

How it Works: From October to March, a monthly challenge is open to serving soldiers, dependants and MOD civilians in BFG. The challenge can be completed at any time within a given month and results can be submitted in a number of ways:

By posting photographs of the session summary screen on the Facebook group, BA(G) Cycling, with the required details in order to correctly categorise each competitor. Completing the challenge in a group setting and using Annex A from the Admin Inst to submit results to SSgt (SSI) Llewellyn. Attending the monthly meet to complete the challenge in a competitive environment.

The BA(G) community are all about inclusion. Join in and go toe to toe with like minded warriors. Put your body on the line, strive for your true potential and go as deep into your personal fitness locker as possible.

Join us on Facebook, search: BA(G) Cycling

Categories:

Upcoming Events:

Male Under 75kg (light) 75 – 84.9kg (middle) 85kg+ (heavy)

7th Dec Inter Unit Team Relay 5 x 5km

Female

25th Jan 10min Army A3 Test (W/Kg)

Open Category

In the world of endurance sports, especially cycling, it is the athlete who can ‘suffer the most’, not necessarily the ‘most gifted’, who stands at the top of the podium. It is that ability to suffer physical strain that makes that same winner the strongest, most powerful, fittest and most robust human being.

22nd Feb Sprint Power Avg. 15 x 6seconds 22nd Mar 30km Time Trial

Contact:

SSgt (SSI) Mike Llewellyn PCRF Sennelager Mil Mob: 0172 212 9068

Young Gunners Five top coaches from Premier League Giants Arsenal give youngsters a football masterclass

Five top coaches, travelling from Arsenal’s grounds in London, put the young players through their paces, with the gym at John Buchan School acting as their training ground. Over 100 pupils received elite level instruction throughout the course of the week, allowing them to hone their footballing skills. For the students, their mornings began by viewing and analysing video footage, before putting their moves into practice. Training in squads per year group, the future stars of football took part in sessions working on specific areas; practising various tactics and formations as well as their goalkeeping and passing. As well as perfecting their passes and going for goal, the course meant the students worked on their soft skills, such as discipline and listening.

The training was organised by AWS in partnership with Paderborn FC, who provided the sports equipment used throughout the week, and John Buchan School. Three volunteers, Mark and Stacey Cooper and Paul Farrell, took time off their usual jobs to work with and provide support to the Arsenal coaches. Speaking about the success of the training week, Andy Megram said, “We want to thank everyone who made the course so successful. To the Arsenal coaches, the AWS team and those working behind the scenes, the volunteers who gave up their own time to train the youngsters, Mrs Fox and Rob and Louise Jones from John Buchan School and of course to the students themselves, who really made the course something special.” With so many young talents shining through during the course of the week, coaches are certain the next Thierry Henry may be among them. World Cup 2026 here they come.

Half Term Activities

Half term saw great excitement and opportunity for children taking part in the first ever training camp with Arsenal Football Club. For a full week, the children swapped school for sports and trained like Premiership players.

WRVS Through the ages The Beginning

Woman’s Voluntary Service was founded in March 1938 by Lady Reading. Originally it was thought that the Home Secretary, Sir Samuel Hoare, had approached Lady Reading asking if she would start an organisation to recruit women into the Air Raid Precautions Service, however more recent evidence suggests that it was Lady Reading who approached the Home Secretary proposing the idea. WRVS was officially launched on 18th June 1938 with a statement by the Home Secretary in the House of Commons. By the outbreak of war on 3rd September 1939 WVS had recruited over 300,000 members, by 1943 had over one million volunteers and was involved in almost every aspect of wartime life.

The Blitz

World War II The key parts played by WVS here was the evacuation of civilians from urban areas, collection of clothing for the needy and greeting the returning troops with food, drink and warm clothing.

WVS provided rest centers that offered food, drink, shelter and sanitation. WVS extended their services to looking after the injured and those who had lost their homes. 241 WVS members were killed during this time and many more were wounded.

1938-1939

Royal Decree In 1966 WRVS were granted the honour of adding ‘Royal’ to our title by our Patron, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, in recognition of what the service and its volunteers had given to the country. WRVS became an independent registered charity in 1992.

1945-1949

1938-1945

Services Welfare Officer Barker Bks: Amanda Lamb Number (Civ) 05251 101 229 (Mil) 94879 3229 E-mail: swobarker@yahoo.co.uk

WRVS Then WVS provided Incident Inquiry Points – These were places where people could go to find out if their loved ones were in an area which had been bombed. Queens Messenger Food Convoys – WVS helped to take food to areas in need. D-Day – WVS landed in Italy and supported the troops abroad. WVS also organised campaigns such as: “Salute the Soldier”, “Wings for Victory”, “Spitfire Funds” and “Warship Week”, all of which contributed to the war effort and providing care.

1994

1960-1966

1949-1960

Services Welfare Officer Dempsey Bks: Evelyn Perry Number (Civ) 05254 982 4240 (Mil) 94879 4240 E-mail: swodempsey@hotmail.co.uk

The WRVS Centre is located in Building 16, above Monty’s Bar.

The WRVS Centre is located next in Building 9, next to the Naafi Bar.

Normal Opening Hours: Monday & Tuesday: 1000-1400 1830-2130 Wednesday: 1000-1700 Thursday: 1530-2130 Friday: 1000-1400 Sunday: 1600-2100

Normal Opening Hours: Monday & Wednesday: 1000-1730 Tuesday & Thursday: 1000-1330 1730-2130 Friday: 1000-1300 Sunday: 1600-1900

1966-1994

Services Welfare Officer Mansergh Bks: Kim Scott Number (Civ) 0524 184 2329 (Mil) 9487 32329 E-mail: swomanserghbarracks@hotmail. co.uk The WRVS Centre is located above the NAAFI Normal Opening Hours: Monday & Wednesday: Tuesday & Thursday: Friday: Sunday:

0930-1330 1800-2100 0930-1700 1000-1400 1800-2100

WRVS Today

4-2004

We believe the most important service that a WRVS Services Welfare Officer provides is a neutral listening ear outside the Chain of Command. We’re here to listen and signpost you on to the relevant service and we can provide you with ongoing support through the whole process.

Kick off your boots… and put your feet up with WRVS

1994-2004

966-1994 2004-Current 2004-Current

Services Welfare Officer(s) Normandy Bks: Michelle Foldvary & Mindy Wood Number (Civ) 05254 982 2617 (Mil) 94879 2617

E-mail: swonormandy@hotmail.co.uk

The WRVS Centre is located above the NAAFI. Normal Opening Hours: Monday - Friday: 1000-2200 Saturday: 1500 - 2100 Sunday: 1600- 2200

Uniform WVS launched its first uniform in June 1939; an overcoat and hat shortly followed by a suit uniform. These uniforms were not free and in 1940 a full uniform would cost £9 4s 7d – 2 weeks of the average mans wage. The first free uniform was introduced in 1953; a dress, beret and overcoat. Today our day time attire is the wellknown burgundy suit.

Services Welfare Officer Catterick Bks: Jill Smith Number (Civ) 05219 254 3167 (Mil) 94881 3167 E-mail: swobielefeld@gmail.com The WRVS Office is located in Ridges Bar, and regularly use the community support drop in lounge. Please see the WRVS Whiteboard in the corridor for more information. Normal Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday: 0900-1330 1900-2130 Friday: 0900-1330 Sunday: 1800-2130 41

The WRVS today provides centres in the UK, Northern Ireland, Germany, Cyprus and Canada for the soldiers to relax and chill in. Some of the facilities that the modern WRVS centres provide: • Lounge areas • DVD’s – Also to rent free of charge • ICT Suits with printing facilities • Games areas including Snooker/ Pool tables, Table Tennis, Darts etc… • Games Consoles • Cinema Rooms • Honesty Libraries • Free tea/coffee • Information on the local area

A Special Occasion

St Peter’s Church on Barker Barracks played

host to a very special visit from the Bishop to the Forces, The Right Reverend Nigel Stock, on Sunday 6th November, as he flew in specially to conduct a service, which included a baptism and six confirmations of faith. Speaking to the packed church, The Rt. Rev. Stock, who is also Bishop to the Falkland Islands, welcomed the congregation and expressed his joy in joining the occasion. He then led the service by inviting the candidates for baptism and confirmation forward; first sprinkling them with water before later anointing them with oil. Following the giving of communion, the Rev Daniel Critchlow presented a lighted candle to the newly baptised and confirmed. After the service, the churchgoers were invited to stay for coffee and cake and take the opportunity to speak to The Rt. Rev. Stock and his wife, Carolyne, who joined him on his trip to Paderborn. He said, “I’m delighted to be here today on this special occasion. It’s a privilege to be Bishop to the Forces and serve this community round the world. I’m always impressed by the way those within the community support each other, and here in Paderborn is no exception.” >>> Services take place weekly across the Garrison and are welcoming to all who would like to attend.

Our Lady of Lourdes Church Normandy Barracks, Sennelager Roman Catholic 1100hrs Including Children’s Liturgy

St Christopher’s Church

St Maximillian Kolbe Church

Dempsey Barracks, Sennelager Protestant 0900hrs

Catterick Barracks, Bielefeld Protestant 0900hrs Roman Catholic 1700hrs

St Peters’s Church

St Barbara’s Church

Barker Barracks, Paderborn Protestant 1100hrs

Mansergh Barracks, Gütersloh Roman Catholic 0900hrs Protestant 1100hrs

Post

Name

Warden; Church House

Contact

Revd Richard Downes

Deputy assistant chaplain general, Germany Father Ian Stevenson CF Office: 05219 254 2491 Mobile: 0173 511 2080 BFG-HQ-G1-OPSPERS-CHAPSDACG@mod.uk

Name

Contact

Office: 05741 203 89 Mobile: 01722 595 317 Westfalengar-BIE-CH-warden@mod.uk

Post

Name

Contact

Senior Chaplain; 20 Armd Inf Bde

Chaplain; Westfalen Garrison

Revd Mike Thomason CF

Revd Heather Rendell CF

Office: 05254 982 2051 Mobile: 01735 103 404 20X-G1-CHAP-SNR@mod.uk

Office: 05254 982 2033 Mobile: 01722 086 384 WESTFALENGAR-HQ-CHAPLAIN@mod.uk

Post

Regimental Chaplain; QRH & 1 AMR

Name

Revd Justin Bradbury CF

Contact

Office: 05254 982 2966 Mobile: 01722 086 315 QRH-HQ-Padre@mod.uk

Regimental Chaplain; 35 Engr & 3 CS Bn Reme

Name

Revd Daniel Critchlow CF

Contact

Office: 05251 101 932 Mobile: 01735 205 861 35ENGR-RHQ-PADRE@mod.uk

Post

Name

Regimental Chaplain; 1 PWRR

Regimental Chaplain; 26 Royal Artillery

Revd Neil McLay CF

Revd Graeme McConville

Office: 05251 101 274 Mobile: 01722 086 347 1PWRR-HQ-PADRE@mod.uk

Office: 05251 101 559 Mobile: 01722 578 097 26RA-PADRE@mod.uk

Contact

CHURCHES & CHAPLAINS

Army Library and Information Service Halloween 2016 It was a busy half term week at Sennelager and Barker Libraries, both offering art and crafts for families to participate in. Visiting children had fun making paper plate pumpkins, ghosts and spooky lanterns as well as taking part in our spooktastic games!

Bob Dylan Display To honour this year’s Nobel Prize winner for literature, Bob Dylan, Bielefeld Library have on display a collection of books about the recipient’s life and collected interviews. Ask your Library Information Assistant for an inter-library loan if you are elsewhere in BFG and would like to borrow something to find out more about the prestigious winner. We are always updating our collection with newly released titles, popular authors and personal requests. Pop in and see our ‘hot new items’ display for inspiration! We are open to customer suggestions for new book requests so if there is anything you would like to read, please come and see us; we are happy to help!

Sennelager Library

Paderborn Community Hub Naafi Max, BFPO 16 Civilian: 05254 6620630 sennlib@alibs.detsa.co.uk Normal opening times: Mon - Thurs 0900 -1700 Fri 0900 -1400

Bielefeld Library

Block 8, Catterick Bks, BFPO 39 Mil: 97881 3123 Civilian: 0521 925 43 123 biellib@alibs.detsa.co.uk Normal opening times: Mon 0830 - 1630 Tues 0830 - 1630 Wed 0830 - 1300 Thur 0830 - 1630 Fri 0830 - 1200 (1230-1300 lunch break)

Barker Library

Mansergh Library

Barker Bks, BFPO22 Mil: 948 79 3128 Civilian: 05251 101128 padelib@alibs.detsa.co.uk

Mansergh Bks, BFPO 113 Military: 94873 2336 Civilian: 05241 842336 manslib@alibs.detsa.co.uk

Normal opening times: Mon - Fri 0830 - 1630

Normal opening times: Mon - Fri 0900 - 1300

WINNER: Age 12-15 Madeleine Stokes, aged 12

Autumn Poetry Competition We were thrilled with the response to our Poetry writing competition and thank you to all of those that submitted an entry. Entrants submitted a poem in any poetic style based on the theme ‘Autumn’. Congratulations to all of our winners, they received a gift hamper that will hopefully inspire them to continue writing!

WINNER: Age 6-11 Times in the Autumn: Eve Thomason, aged 8 Leaves fluttering Trees standing And the sky is full of tears. Bushes rustling Hedgehogs snuffling Pull your coat tight round your ears. Clouds scudding Puddles mudding As the end of year appears.

Autumn is a time for falling leaves Swirling off trees. Red, gold and brown drifting down, To make a carpet of colour on the ground. Autumn is a time for big round pumpkins Enough to make a pie or something. Juicy red apples to munch and crunch. Blackberries grow off bushes just for you. So eat them quickly so they don’t turn blue! Autumn is a time for shiny brown conkers Which makes me go bonkers. Waiting for the shining conkers to fall is the best season of all! Polished conkers rest before they’re ready to be strung up with string. Getting bruised, smashed and bashed. Autumn is the time for foggy mornings. Damp, cold and dull. The clouds cover the sky with white to give it lots of light. This will hopefully keep us warm throughout the night.

Autumn is a time for shorter days Which some people praise. I know winter is just round the corner and coming fast But make the most of autumn As before you know it, it will already be past!

WINNER: Age 16+ Samantha Crowther As I look outside my window And see the autumn leaves fall, I look up above To the bare trees standing tall. I hear the crunch of leaves As people are walking by, I think how beautiful autumn is With a cold mist in the sky. Each day more leaves fall to the ground I take in the autumn scenery, And the lovely autumn sound. Oh what a colourful season It brightens up my day! Orange, yellow, red and green, I smile and watch the leaves lay.

Recommendations of the month We have discovered some great books whilst working at the Library so here are our recommendations for this month:

Paradise Sky Joe R. Lansdale This salute to the dime novel tradition takes the reader to the West at its wildest. A tale of injustice and hope and for fans of Western noir, I highly recommend!

The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up Marie Kondo This best seller has a relaxing approach to improving your living space. It definitely worked for me!

Fires in the dark glowing Scent of food cooking All take away your fears.

Autumn is a time for fun and joy. Time to get outside, Wrap up warm…bring a toy.

Autumn is a time for hedgehogs To find somewhere to sleep. Off they go as the birds sing “Tweet! Tweet!” Ready to fly south for their winter retreat.

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20th ARMOURED INFANTRY BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS Office Opening Times

Welfare Team

Contact Details

Mon - Thu: 0830 - 1630hrs Fri: 0830 - 1230hrs

Welfare Officer: Capt Jason Styles

Office: 05254 982 4953 Duty Mobile: 01732 098 662

Welfare Clerk: Sarah Patterson

35 Royal Engineers Welfare Office Opening Times

Mon - Thu 0900 -1300 Fri 0900 -1200 Mon - Thu 1400-1630 (Appointments Only) Out of Hours: Barker Barracks Guard Room: 05251 101 243

Unit Welfare Team

UWO Maj Rob Meakins UW SNCO Sgt Craig Broomhall CLERK Mrs Samantha Lodowica-Henry Mrs Holly Triggs

Telephone

05251 101 213

1 ARMOURED MEDICAL REGIMENT Welfare Office Opening Times

Contact Telephone Numbers

Mon-Thu: 0900-1230hrs & 1300hrs-1600 hrs Fri: 0900 - 1300hrs

Unit Welfare Officer - 05254 982 2417 Unit Welfare SNCO - 05254 982 2904 Unit Welfare Clerk - 05254 982 2436

Find us on Facebook - 1AMR Welfare Dept

Fax - 05254 982 4832 Out of hours (Guardroom) - 05254 982 4126

1st military working dog regiment UWO Contact Details Unit Welfare Officer: Capt John Heath Unit Welfare SNCO: Sgt Alex Wood Unit Welfare Clerk: Mrs Vanessa Newton

Contact number: Mil 953617633 Civ: 01780 727633 To contact the UWO out of hours, call the 1 MWD Regimental Orderly Officer on 0049 (0) 1722 566290

1ST BATTALION THE PRINCESS OF WALES’S ROYAL REGIMENT Welfare Office Opening Times Mon - Thu Fri

Tigers’ Den Opening Times

0900 - 1500 0900 - 1300

Mon - Thu Fri

0900 - 1600 0900 - 1300

the QUEEN’S ROYAL HUSSARS Office Opening Times

Welfare Team

Contact Details

Mon - Thu: 0830 - 1700hrs Fri: 0830 - 1300hrs

UWO: Capt Neil Rudd UWO SNCO: Sgt Les Wareham UWO Cpl: Cpl Paul Gallagher UWO Clerk: Mrs Sarah Drapper

Office: 05254 982 2344 or 2425 Out Of Hours Emergency: 05254 982 2428

Bielefeld station Bielefeld Station Welfare Office Station Welfare UWO: Anne Lewis ( Ext 3357) Station Welfare SNCO: Sgt Prem Rai (Ext 3208) Station Welfare JNCO: Lcpl Mark Slinger (Ext 3208) Station Welfare SA: Nobby Clarke (Ext 3208) Welfare Clerk: Julie Davies (Ext 3302)

Contact number: 0521 9254 + Ext To contact the UWO out of hours, contact the Guardroom on 0521 9254 3252 Facebook Group: Bielefeld Station Community Support

26 Royal artillery Mansergh Barracks Welfare Office Unit Welfare Officer: 05241 84 2228 Unit Welfare Clerk: 05241 84 2209 Out of Hours (Guardroom): 05241 84 2203

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Opening Times Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 08:30-12:30 13:30-15:30 Wednesday, Friday 08:30-12:30

paderborn STATION UWO - Deboral Herlihy UWWO - WO2 Mark Heap Clerk - Kerry Shay

05254 982 4292 05254 982 4293 05254 982 2437

Welfare Centre Opening Times Mon to Thu: 0830 - 1630hrs Closed for lunch: 1245 - 1330hrs Fri: 0900 - 1230hrs

Welfare Team

NEED TO KNOW

Security in BFG 100% PERSONAL ID CHECKS ON ALL BARRACK ENTRY POINTS All identity cards are to be subject to a ‘touch check’ close examination. Have your ID card out of your wallet to speed up the checking process. CHALLENGE PEOPLE YOU DO NOT RECOGNISE At work or about camp - if you see someone you don’t know then politely ask them who they are, if they have a pass, what are they doing there or if they need help? If you have any suspicions, report them to the guardroom. VEHICLE PASSES Do not leave your car passes in the car window when not on barracks. VEHICLE SEARCHES A random selection of pass holders’ vehicles may be searched before entering barracks. BARRACK PERIMETER PATROLLING There is an increase in the visibility of dog handler patrol units and patrols are conducted using marked vehicles. PERSONAL ONLINE SECURITY Your cyber checklist: 1. ALWAYS install updates, Anti-Virus and update your devices 2. Think before posting / tweeting / sharing information online 3. Use public WiFi with caution and use a VPN if possible 4. Create strong passwords or pass phrases and always log out of websites 5. Secure online profiles, security settings and enable Two-factor Authentication Top Tips 1. Use encrypted messaging; WhatsApp instead of SMS 2. Use Voice Over Data instead of Voice Over Network 3. Turn off geolocating software 4. Use WiFi connectivity instead of mobile phone networks 5. Always use the manufacturer’s recommended security settings If you suspect that you have been a victim of cyber-crime or have received suspicious activity on your personal portable electronic device, save the activity as a screen shot, switch off the device, note where you are and the time, and report it. >> >>

Security is not just the responsibility of people employed in security posts. Security affects everybody and we all have a part to play.

NEED TO KNOW

Anglo-German Carol Service Sunday 4 December 1700 Nikolaikirche, Bielefeld Anglo-German Carol Service Tuesday 6 December 2000 Martin Luther Kirche, Gutersloh Anglo-German Christingle Wednesday 7 December 1700 Abdinghof Kirche, Paderborn Anglo-German Carol Service Thursday 8 December 1830 Dom (Cathedral), Paderborn St Christopher’s, Dempsey Bks 24 December 1600 Christmas Family Worship St Peter’s Barker, Barracks 25 December 1000 Christmas Morning Family Worship 1 January 1100 Morning Worship with Communion Our Lady of Lourdes, Normandy Bks 25 December 1100 Christmas Morning Mass 1 January 1100 Mass St Barbara’s, Mansergh Bks 25 December 1000 Christmas Day Service (Joint service with St Maximilian Kolbe) 25 December 0900 Christmas Morning Mass (RC) 1 January No service (Joint at St Maximilian Kolbe at 1100) 1 January 0900 Mass (RC) St Maximillian Kolbe, Catterick Bks 24 December 1700 Christmas Vigil Mass (RC) 25 December No service Joint at St Barbara’s 1 January 1100 Joint service with St Barbara’s 1 January 1700 Mass (RC)

Christmas Cover Sennelager MRS

Closes on Fri 23 Dec at 13:00 Open Wed 28, Thur 29, Fri 30 Dec Closed Mon 2 Jan Opens Tue 3 Jan

Paderborn - Barker Med Centre

Closes on Friday 23 Dec at 13:00 Opens Tues 3 Jan (Services provided by Sennelager MRS on Wed 28, Thur 29 and Fri 30 Dec)

Bielefeld Med Centre

Closes on Fri 23 Dec at 12:00 Open Wed 28, Thur 29, Fri 30 Dec Closed Mon 2 Jan Opens Tue 3 Jan

Gutersloh - Mansergh Med Centre

Closes on Fri 23 Dec at 13:30 Opens Tue 3 Jan (Services provided by Bielefeld Med Centre on Wed 28, Thur 29 and Fri 30 Dec)

For out of hours service call the Telephone Assessment Service (TAS) 24 Hour Call Centre: 0521 305 3961

Saturn in Paderborn

Wishes you a Merry Christmas

Will open their doors outside of normal hours, for tax-free shopping to members of the BFG community. 8 December from 2000 – 2230 hrs After Carol Service at the Cathedral.

Christmas Church Services

Delivery & Pick-Up Services Tel: 05254 660 4755

Husarenstrasse 12 33104 Schloss Neuhaus

Gyros,Salad, Snacks Grillgerichte Pasta Pizza

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Friday: 1200-1430, 1700-2200 Saturday: 1200-2230 Sunday: 1400-2145

Produced By The Garrison Information Office Design, Copy and Photography Teresa Alonso, Kathryn Bracey, Oliver Connelly, Lois Taylor

Punchlines.magazine@googlemail.com 0049 (0)5254 982 2105

ARRIVING SOON

AVAILABLE TO ORDER NOW

ALL NEW G30 BMW 5 Series 520d SE Saloon

Automatic Transmission • Navigation system professional 5 Years Service inclusive • LED Lights • Full Leather OUR TAX FREE PRICE AVAILABLE FROM

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Speak to one of our car sales advisors for more information If you would like to contact us please call one of our Car Sales Advisors: SENNELAGER: 0049 (0) 5254 86 956

www.naafi.co.uk/cars Please speak to your local NAAFI Car Sales Advisor for more details. Offer applies only to BF(G) entitled personnel. All details correct at time of publication and are subject to being withdrawn or changed without notice. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability. Images shown for illustration purposes only.