Parbate पर्वते | June 2020

Vol 72 No 5: June 2020

The Magazine for Gurkha Soldiers and their Families www.gurkhabde.com/publication

PARBATE HQ Brigade of Gurkhas, Robertson House, Sandhurst, Camberley, Surrey, GU15 4NP. All enquiries Tel: 01276 412614 94261 2614 Fax: 01276 412694 94261 2694 Email:

rhq3parbate@gmail.com

Editor Corporal Shekhar Gurung 01276 412614 Head of Communications Mr Mick Latter 01276 412776 Please send your articles together with high quality photographs (JPEGs min 300dpi and 1 MB file size) through your unit’s Parbate Rep to: rhq3parbate@gmail.com Parbate is published every month by kind permission of HQBG. It is not an official publication and the views expressed, unless specifically stated otherwise, do not reflect MOD or Army policy and are the personal views of the author. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the Editorial Staff.

No responsibility for the quality of goods or services advertised in this magazine can be accepted by the Editorial Staff or Publishers and advertisements are accepted on the express condition that they in no way contravene the provisions of the Trades Descriptions Act 1968 nor any other prevailing Consumer Legislation. The Editorial Staff and Publishers cannot accept responsibility for the result of errors or omissions in articles or advertisements.

Parbate is designed by the AMC Design Studio, ADR009427 and produced using recycled paper.

W

e welcome you to our fifth edition of Parbate for 2020.

When COVID-19 hit the world a few months ago now, my initial reaction in our media space is what would we talk about with less activity taking place.

That has not been the case and after a few weeks of very much less activity across the Brigade and wider Army, adapted training, charity events, COVID-19 support stories and plans for the future are emerging on a daily basis. You only need to look at our website www.gurkhabde.com and our various social media feeds to see that, especially our Facebook page which has now topped 300,000 followers.

Last month we launched our Gurkha Amateur Photography Competition for 2020 following the fantastic images we had sent in for the 2019 competition. We have already received a number of great submissions and we encourage more of you to take a look and

send us your best images on any subject. There will be prizes for the best images with the first place attracting a winning value of £150.00.

We will also use many of the images across our media and in Parbate and we are looking to run a temporary pop up exhibition starting at the Gurkha Museum in Winchester later this year and hopefully other venues around the UK. Should social distancing restrictions still be in place we will run virtual events to display the images. Find out more at www.gurkhabde. com/photo20 In this edition we also talk about the use of Defence Connect for our serving community.

The Army drive for this is ‘get on there and use it’ and with COVID19 work restrictions this platform has become a great tool for accessing information and communicating with colleagues and teams around the Army.

So, we look forward to seeing your images over the coming weeks, please do submit your stories and features to us. We can promote online to an extensive audience so do follow us on social media and the website.

Mick Latter HQBG Head of Communications

You can find out more about the Gurkhas and see some of the things they do on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn Alternatively, visit our website: www.gurkhabde.com Search for: The Gurkha Brigade Association

Search for: Gurkha Brigade Association

Follow us @ Gurkha_brigade

@gurkha_brigade_association

youtube.com/c/GurkhaBrigadeAssociation Social distancing and COVID-19.

Where images show individuals not applying 2m social distancing the images were taken before the rules were applied. Or in some cases, where the rule was not active in that country at the time, the image was taken.

Front Cover: Pass off the Square Recruit Intake 20 - Gurkha Company Catterick

PARBATE Vol 72 No 5: June 2020 01

PARBATE

4.

Vol 72 No. 5: June 2020

UNIT FOCUS:

The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles 5.

Intake Cup Football Championship The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

6.

Improvise, Adapt, Overcome: Maintaining Readiness During COVID-19 The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

7.

The Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas adapts to COVID-19 restrictions

8.

The Formation of 94 Squadron QOGLR, 9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment

9.

A Virtual Social Life with the Queen’s Gurkha Engineers

10. Get on Defence Connect 12.

The Pass off Square Champion 2020 Gurkha Company ITC Catterick

13.

Road to Medicina Charity Event The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

14.

3 ways The Gurkha Welfare Trust has responded to Nepal’s COVID-19 situation

15.

Gurkhas run the Length of Country for Local Hospital in Folkstone The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

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The June VCs The Gurkha Museum

17.

Duty Trek Jiri to Ragini Queen’s Gurkha Signals

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The Road to P company The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

19.

What it takes to be a Combat Engineer Queen’s Gurkha Engineers

20.

Brigade Culture and Language Team Remote delivery of Nepali Language Training

21.

Farewell PT for Newly Selected RMAS Instructor The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

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Exercise SIPALU DRIVER Queen’s Gurkha Engineers

23. On 30th June 2011 Gurkha Staff and Personnel Support Company was formed 24.

Exercise CLAN The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

25.

Photographer Alex Welirang, captures Gurkhas on camera

26.

Queen’s Gurkha Engineers eFIFA competition

27. Exercise TAMANDU TIGER - Mountain biking in Bali The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles 28.

Recruit Intake 20, Pass off the Square ITC Catterick

Afno Bichar

02 PARBATE Vol 72 No 5: June 2020

• Images must be JPEGs at least 1MB in file size minimum or 3MB for full page cover or double page spread.

• You need to capture the images on your device at the highest file size it allows. Using image software to increase image size is not the answer, most images will become blurred and pixilated.

• You must have permission to use the photographs you submit to this office.

Technical requirements for images in Parbate: • Images with children with their faces in clear view - you must hold permission from the parental guardians for us to print those images.

• Operational images and text must be cleared for use by your unit Intelligence Officer or Permanent Joint Headquarters Operations Centre (PJHQ).

• Images must be clear - no out of focus images will be used on any media output.

• No collages will be printed (combined multi images into one image).

• For each article aim to send at least three images. No more than six images - unless requested to send more by this office.

• Do not embed to an email send as attachments. If large files you can send using DropBox, Google Drive or Wetransfer.com - make sure we have permission to open them files when you send them.

You can submit images of disk or memory stick as well but we will not be able to return the items.

• Asking this team to download the images from your unit social media is not acceptable. The images are often compressed and thus not usable in print formats • All images sent to us for Parbate will be stored on the GBA hard drives and or secure cloud storage and we reserve the right to use those images on any external and internal media output and delete the images if no longer required.

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UNIT FOCUS

COVID-19 update from Brunei The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

By Captain Charlie Collins, The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

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hankfully COVID-19 has not put an entire stop to The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles (2 RGR) resilience, reliability, and activity as an infantry Battalion. The different companies and departments of the Battalion remain combat effective. We are lucky in Brunei that the tragic consequences of COVID-19 have not hit the country hard, with only 141 infections so far. However, the lockdown rules and social distancing have still affected our routines while out here.

The first changes have been to the PT routine. Usually we are used to getting up for a 0630hrs PT parade at least 4 times a week, however with the gym and pool closed, PT groups restricted to under 10 people and no shared equipment we have had to be more flexible. PT sessions have been conducted outside at varying times of the day, which is difficult in Brunei’s climate. Everyone is using the opportunity to build some recovery and flexibility sessions into their routine, and the PTIs have put plenty of videos online demonstrating sessions that people can do in their own homes with minimal equipment.

Our training has been similarly affected, with lessons in small groups and predominantly outside. The first task for the Companies was to complete their MATTs. For this the DLE and Defence Connect have been useful.

Everyone was encouraged to work from home when possible, so junior soldiers were able to complete much of the MATT learning from the DLE, and our instructors uploaded lessons onto defence connect for the tough bits. Of course, all the tests had to be conducted by an instructor, but with a little creative thinking most MATTs can be completed while remaining socially distanced.

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Despite the restrictions this has been a great opportunity for Platoon and Section Commanders to take their soldiers back to basics, and has really tested everybody’s mental flexibility to create lessons which are still engaging and worthwhile in spite of the restrictions of social distancing.

There is still plenty of good training that can be conducted, from refreshing weapon handling on all weapon systems, navigation, signals and even ATk Platoon practicing their abseiling in line with their role as trackers.

Plenty of lessons have been recorded and uploaded onto Defence Connect, a positive change that will endure when working routines return to normal.

Working from home has been encouraged where possible, and this has been a great opportunity for those with dependants to spend quality time with their families. The worldwide spread of online app has also made it to 2 RGR, with meetings, command groups, updates and discussions all held online.

Some more major changes have occurred, particularly to the forecast of events. Of course, the unit move was cancelled, which will be felt by both 1 RGR and 2 RGR. B (Gallipoli) Coy were unable to deploy to New Zealand on Exercise PACIFIC KUKRI, and the forecast of events is very uncertain as the world slowly opens again. For a Battalion that is so used to deploying overseas this is of course disappointing. However, as Brunei begins to ease its restrictions there will be opportunities for larger scale training closer to home, which will still be very worthwhile. Similarly, any chance of travelling abroad for leave has been turned off, this is difficult in a small country such as Brunei, but the welfare facilities and processes in the Garrison will reduce the negative effects.

The digitisation of our working routine has been a positive change, and the back to basics approach to training will ensure we are in a good place for the year to come before the unit move in 2021. It remains to be seen how restrictions will be lifted in the coming months, but the situation in Brunei is certainly positive.

Intake Cup Football Championship 2 RGR

By Rifleman Subash Gurung, The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

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n Friday 13th March 2020 in the hot and humid day of Brunei, The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles (2 RGR) Intake Cup Football Championship was held by B Company, 2 RGR. The predominant aim of this event was to provide opportunity for all intakes to participate in a friendly tournament and raise funds for the Gurkha Museum. But there is always something more on the line when it comes to competitions in the Gurkhas and especially when it comes to one’s intake.

The tournament was held in Garrison Football Complex, Tuker Lines, Seria with participants from Intake 02 to 19, all there to prove that their intake is the best. Our first match with Intake 19 A team was a battle of the ages. It was a stalemate with one goal each, but in the last few minutes, Rifleman Puran shot us a winning goal with a powerful volley. One more bonus goal from Rakesh.

We then made our way to the semi-final with Intake 19 D. Their team was filled with new and ambitious Nepal Cup players, a fierce team indeed, but we always love to overcome a good challenge. We opened the tally in the second half, but it was quickly equalized by Intake 19. We kept on putting pressure for the entire match, but Intake 19 didn’t give in, and the game stretched into penalties. It was the time where our goalie Rifleman Sunil showed his excellence by saving every shot. We ended up winning 3-0.

For the final match, we were nervous and excited but confident.

Both teams had come such a long way to give in. The match seemed like it would go onto penalties, but then in the last 2 minutes, there was an epic goal from Rifleman Tridev who passed from our d-box area, sending the ball towards the opponent’s side. Rakesh received the ball with his chest and passed it on to Rifleman Vinay who shot and scored giving us the championship.

We raised money for the Gurkha Museum but also brought out teamwork and brotherhood in all the intake. Finally, we would like to dedicate this victory to all our numberies from 2 RGR who couldn’t be there with us to celebrate this victory and to all the numberies in the Brigade of Gurkhas.

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IMPROVISE, ADAPT, OVERCOME: Maintaining Readiness During COVID-19 Rifleman Milan Buduja Pun, The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

T

he current COVID-19 global pandemic has changed the daily life of all service personnel. However, as a Rifleman from A Company, I have used my time very productively and seized opportunities to maintain professional effectiveness with the help of my chain of command.

In this tough situation, the Company has generated training commitments enabling us to stay physically and mentally fit. Online app is playing a vital role in keeping us connected. PT is conducted online and we are doing fitness individually to maintain social distancing. To keep within the government guidelines, we are learning through online lessons which have covered many topics such as Public Order, AMBG roles and Jungle tactics, and has the additional benefit of familiarising us with modern technology, as these are all conducted on Online app.

Exercise DELHI WARRIOR MONK was an inter-platoon competition for A Company between the Rifleman. It tested us in three ways: presentation skills, video review, essay writing and cross country.

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In addition, we were incentivized with prizes for the winners.

The competition was interesting and productive; personally, it greatly helped me to explore the army leadership code, such as recognising individual strengths and weaknesses, encouraging thinking, demanding high performance and applying reward.

Navigational knowledge and skills must be to the highest standard to be a professional soldier. A Company conducted two navigation exercises; a golden opportunity to test ourselves. We were placed in pairs from the same household, however we ensured we maintained proper social distancing. Two routes were provided, one was slightly longer in distance where as another was more about accuracy, testing our bearing and observation skills. In addition, we had to answer a military knowledge question at each checkpoint, adding a further cognitive dimension to the navigation challenge.

In order to best prepare the eligible Riflemen for Junior Leadership Cadre (JLC), various lessons have been prepared by the finest instructors in the company. I believe we have become more confident and competent with their support and guidance. Additional learning opportunities included doing a current affairs presentation which was so informative and helped us to become familiar to themes of 21st century warfare. Furthermore, we were encouraged to do online courses in designated ‘personal development’ study periods, which helped us to focus on enhancing our wider skill set and to be creative during this period During the lockdown we have been highly productive and with the help of our chain of command and our own individual effort, we have become more innovative physically and mentally, better educated and more proficient at our job.I strongly believe the phrase‘if there is a will, there is a way’ has been proven again, andI am looking forward to continuing to make this period as productive as possible.

M

ost military band performances (unless cleared by the Ministry of Defence) are currently on hold like so many other music events across the UK. But it is important that musicians keep up their practice routines to maintain a high professional level of personal capability on their instruments for when they can fully return to work and perform for audiences and fans around the world.

The Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas has like so many had to find ways to deliver music and also maintain musical quality through practice and mentoring using social distancing and through digital devices and video conference calls.

The Band are located in Shorncliffe with many of the younger personnel living in single accommodation blocks. Where possible musical mentoring programmes for the younger members of the band are delivered through digital conference meetings. The Band have also allocated strict training spaces in the band practice block, with social distancing being applied and maximum hygiene regimes.

This one-to-one and group mentoring is key as many of the young Gurkhas in the Band have joined having never picked up their allocated instrument before and have to work very hard over the early years to reach the required standard to be an effective musician in the band.

The Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas adapts to COVID-19 restrictions

Recognition for Gurkha Soldier on the NHS Nightingale Project Build

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Gurkha from 248 Squadron the Queen’s Gurkha Signals, based at Beacon Barracks, Stafford who helped build the Nightingale Hospital at the Birmingham has been rewarded for his efforts by a senior Army officer.

Lieutenant General Tyrone Urch CBE, ex-Standing Joint Commander (UK), and Commander Home Command, presented a recognition card to Sergeant Robin Gurung, who took charge of the copper oxygen pipe layout as the hospital was being built.

The General recently visited HQ 11 Signal and West Midlands Brigade at Donnington near Telford. Brigadier AJ Smith, Commander of the Army in the West Midlands, briefed the Lieutenant General about the Army’s support role in the battle against Covid-19, including military personnel operating mobile testing units and helping build the Nightingale Hospital at the NEC.

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A

The Formation of 94 Squadron QOGLR, 9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

new chapter has been added to the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment’s (QOGLR) long and rich history. On the 23rd April 2020, 95 Squadron, 9 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps (RLC), was disbanded and formed into 94 Squadron QOGLR, 9 Regiment RLC. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, only a few Squadron Headquarters personnel were able to take part in this historic ceremony. They marked the event by raising the 94 Squadron QOGLR flag.

We owe a huge debt of gratitude and eternal reverence to those who served in and gave maximum effort in their time with 95 Squadron, dating back to its establishment in 1993. As this era of 94 Squadron QOGLR begins, the combined past and prestige 95 Squadron, shall be carried forward, building on this team cohesion, professionalism and kaida.

94 Squadron personnel are hoping to provide the best possible support for 9 Regiment RLC and the whole Army as we deploy on exercises and operations around the world.

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By Sunil Gurung, Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment

A Virtual Social Life with the Queen’s Gurkha Engineers Lance Corporal Arun Thapa, Queen’s Gurkha Engineers

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he outbreak of COVID-19 has created a global health crisis that has had a significant impact on the everyday lives of us all, from civilian workers to military personnel. After many weeks of lockdown, life as we knew it has ground to a halt; however, despite its gloomy appearance, lockdown has brought about some positive changes.

With the aim of being physically fit and mentally healthy whilst abiding by the Government policy of social distancing, virtual methods are aiding us with continuing our battle rhythm and enabling some social activity.

Both troop and squadron training are now being carried out through meetings on online applications. Through these means, we can hold face-to-face discussions between large groups, share screens to facilitate presentations and lessons, and seize opportunities to learn together, taking our training from the training grounds to the virtual world. This has allowed us to stay indoors, keeping ourselves isolated, whilst also continuing with key training. Slowly but surely, we are adapting to make this our routine until life gets back to normal.

Additionally, Part One Orders and all other essential documents formerly produced on paper are now accessible through the Jive Defence connect page which can be accessed on mobile devices. The physical training program can also be carried out individually with the help of the PTI publishing daily PT programs, enabling us to keep ourselves fit and helping to relieve stress.

We have also organised social events online including the 70 Squadron virtual social function consisting of an online quiz competition, lucky draw and a talent show revealing some impressive singing. It greatly helped to socialize during this pandemic period to raise the morale and sense of team cohesion amongst squadron personnel.

All of these virtual measures help us to stay focused and prepared. With members of 36 Engineer Regiment called on short notice to the London ExCel Centre to assist in building the NHS Nightingale Hospital, we have helped prove that military personnel are always prepared for a crisis like COVID-19 and will always be

Section Commander Battle Course1903

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ance Corporal Bijoy Rai from Gurkha Company Sittang (GC(S)) attended Section Commander’s Battle Course (SCBC) -1903 at Infantry Battle School (IBS) from 5th January - 3rd April 2020 and achieved an Instructor’s Recommendation (IR) in the LFTT Phase, and was the only Gurkha student to achieve a Distinction on the Tactics Phase.

He was within the top 3 of 120 students on the course and was congratulated by Officer Commanding GC(S) and Commanding Officer SSU Lieutenant Colonel C Boryer MBE RGR for his great achievement.

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Get on Defence Connect

By Mick Latter, Head of Communications Headquarters Brigade of Gurkhas

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efence Connect has been around for a few years now, uptake on its use was rather slow and then COVID-19 came along. As I write this feature there are over 100,000 users and growing.

CGS pushed out a statement a few weeks ago that all Army personnel were to create an account and start using Defence Connect. And our serving Gurkha community should be no different.

What is Defence Connect?

What are the Benefits?

Defence Connect is a tool you access through Defence Gateway along with an everincreasing number of tools and applications, all of which can be accessed through a normal internet connection to your own or issued device. It is the space that content (currently up to Official) and messaging can reach all the workforce as it does not require access to a MODNET connected computer, tablet on smart phone.

It is a fantastic place to find out about all sorts of things, share information on policy, knowledge on best practices in all areas of our business, wider unit activities, opportunities, learning tools and access, networking, contacting colleagues in a safe manner and allows up and down rank engagement to make sure the message is seen and engaged with. You can even run your own blogs and groups specific to your unit, skill set or hobby. Knowledge of who you are, and what your skill set is and what interests you to others can be key to your development and opportunities.

Why should we use it now and post COVID-19?

It is the official channel we should be communicating to your teams and personnel, and not using WhatsApp groups, Viber chats Facebook Group or similar channels.

The reason is it is safe, secure and you know your team can access the content from anywhere at any time if they have an internet connection. Defence Connect is not only useful in this period of lockdown and remote working it will allow us to maximise the information flow and engagement of our teams, who when we return to a normal work structure over the coming months may still have limited access to MODNET as they did before COVID-19 came along.

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What can I do on Defence Connect?

Everything you can do on many various social media channels you can do on Defence Connect and a lot more besides.

Online collaboration, networks of people, messaging groups, write a blog, signpost to key information, inform your team or work and opportunities, feedback, one to one messaging, surveys, upload videos and documents (up to official only), organise or promote events.

These are just some of the things you can achieve on Defence Connect and the Army HQ team are always looking at how it can be developed. Just to reassure you the platform that Defence Connect is built on is also used by large organisations including Lloyds Bank and EE for their internal communications programmes.

Is it secure?

Top Tips

Unlike WhatsApp, Facebook, Viber, Instagram etc who control where your information is held (their servers), all Defence Connect content is held on servers the Ministry of Defence owns access to only.

• Go to the news tab regularly to see what is trending and what are the key topics of conversations.

Can I access it through an App on my Phone?

• Follow other people. Both those you know and those that interest you in their knowledge areas.

The simple answer is yes through an App called Jive. But the App version is not as useful or has as many options to read or create content as the browser version. But you can access the browser version on your phone as well. Army HQ team are working on a more effective App version, so the choice is really yours, find the best option for you to access Defence Connect.

• Write a blog.

• Join or follow groups related to your work or areas that interest you. From cyber to sport, education to religion, operations to exercises, Defence Connect has everything.

• Share content to other groups and people.

• Add value by commenting on other users content, generate a discussion.

• Follow Headquarters Brigade of Gurkhas on Defence Connect and share our content to your groups.

The HQBG Media team often share content from other groups as well.

To find our more visit: www.army.mod.uk/digitalcommunications/defence-connect-guidance

Gurkhas raise money for the BlinkNow Foundation

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oldiers from across the Brigade including families raised a total of 3,300 pounds for the BlinkNow Foundation (founded by Maggie Doyne when she was only 19 years old) to provide the basic amenities to the Nepali Migrant workers stuck at the Indian border.

This great event was initiated by Lance Corporal Nauraj Gurung (Gurkha Staff and Personnel Support) and Lance Corporal Prashant (Queen’s Gurkha Signals).

BlinkNow Foundation mission is to change the world by empowering Nepal’s children. We do this by providing quality education and a safe environment, and through inspiring others.

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The Pass off Square Champion 2020

By Trainee Rifleman Ashal Tulachan, Gurkha Company, ITC Catterick

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very recruit probably has dreamt of lifting the trophy of overall Pass off Square (POS) champion.

The trophy now has my name engraved on it due only to my hard work, support from instructors.

The 28th May 2020 was the final day of our Phase 1 training, the time came to show all the hard work and determination in front of the judges. I was very nervous but moreover, I was confident. The day began with inspection of our drill outfit followed by individual drill which went excellent in my point of view. Deep down in my heart, I had a little spark of being a potential candidate for the award.

After we finished our lunch, our guruji informed us that there was a tie between two recruits from our 2 Platoon for the title of POS champion. We were all astonished and happy to hear the news and the names. I was ready to compete with my numberi for the trophy. We stood up in the platform in front of Officer in Command Saheb, 2IC Saheb and CSM Saheb who were the judges to decide the winner.

I was fully energetic throughout the tie breaking drill competition. I was only focusing on the word of command and I could see the trophy in front of my eyes. When our drill orders and delivery ended, I heard a big round of applause and Shabash. It was truly a remarkable moment.

At 1400hrs sharp, all 432 recruits, permanent staff and officers convened at the parade square for the awards ceremony. I was earnestly waiting for my name to be called upon by our Officer Commanding Saheb but also my competitor numberi had same chances as well which made me feel anxious.

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Finally, it was the moment of truth and you could have heard a pin drop. I prayed to God that I could hear my name called out. I only remember hearing “Ashal Tulachan� and I marched to the stage where I was honoured

by PDT rank slide, Khukuri and overall POS champion trophy by the Commanding Officer Saheb. I was overwhelmed by the applause.

I really appreciate the efforts of our gurujis and Saheb from my deepest part of my heart.

I was able to lift the trophy only because of what our gurujis and Saheb taught. I also would like to thank 2ITB Gurkha Company for organising such type of competition that enhances the confidence of recruits to become a true Gurkha soldier.

Road To Medicina Charity Event

By Rifleman Sailesh Rai, The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

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s part of the response to the COVID-19 epidemic, Sergeant Santaram Rana of Mortar Platoon organised the ‘Road To Medicina’. This was in aid of Shepway Foodbank and The Royal Gurkha Rifles (RGR) Trust, and so that the Platoon could commemorate the 75th Medicina Day despite being unable to hold a parade or messing.

Shepway Foodbank is working to combat poverty and hunger in the local area, especially among vulnerable people affected by the crisis.

The RGR Trust supports families of personnel killed and wounded on operations and exercise. Medicina holds special significance for The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles. On the 16th April 1945, the 6th Gurkha Rifles and the 14/20th King’s Royal Hussars fought in an intense urban battle in Medicina, Italy, against German forces. Both Regiments were awarded the battle honour ‘Medicina’.

The charity event saw Mortar Platoon run collectively 1386km carrying a 9kg weight in a week. This was designed to represent the distance from Folkestone to Medicina and the weight of two mortar rounds. Each day every man would run 5675m: the range of an 81mm mortar. Members of the campaign designed a promotional video and other advertisements to encourage participation and

donations among the wider community. The club set up on Strava which enabled accountability and a sense of team spirit among the participants which helps to combat loneliness during the lockdown.

Members of the Mortar Platoon began the march with an opening ceremony hosted by the Commanding Officer on the 22nd May. During the event we adhered to the 2m social distancing rule. The Strava group updated its members on the progress they were making each day; through Kent, France, Switzerland and into Northern Italy until the final push to Medicina.

Support from outside the Platoon was fantastic, our friends in the Kings Royal Hussars, former Mortar Platoon personnel and family members helped fund raise and provided motivation through Strava.

On the 28th May, the ‘Road to Medicina’ concluded after a tiring final run of 1386km. It was a great success and the team were able to raise £3129 for the RGR Trust and £345 for Shepway Foodbank.

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3 ways The Gurkha Welfare Trust has responded to Nepal’s COVID-19 situation 1. Providing medication and check-ups to Gurkha veterans and widows

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uring the COVID-19 lockdown, the Trust’s frontline medical staff have continued to provide medical advice, prescribing and dispensing services to elderly and vulnerable Gurkha veterans and widows. However, their Welfare Centres are staffed with the minimum possible number of staff, and movement of staff between the Centres has stopped. Their doctors and nurses only move out of their assigned welfare centre to deliver essential supplies or essential treatments to pensioners.

Because of these restrictions, doctors, who would normally be travelling frequently to rural welfare centres, have some extra capacity, and the Trust therefore approached the government health departments in Kathmandu and Pokhara on whether they could support their efforts to contain COVID-19.

In Pokhara, the Trust’s doctors have been answering the Hello Doctor toll free advice hotline number, to advise members of the public about COVID-19.

2. Their water teams are helping the Government of Nepal

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he Gurkha Welfare Trust’s Rural Water and Sanitation team have initiated their own effort in supporting the Government of Nepal’s response throughout its current water project footprints spread over 3 provinces and 15 districts in Nepal by: • Providing Water, Sanitation and Healthcare (WASH) facilities at local hospitals and quarantine centres.

• Tackling the issue of COVID-19 within wider communities by supporting Gaunpalika and Municipalities.

3. Financial aid to Gurkha pensioners

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he Gurkha Welfare Trust delivers financial aid to over 4,000 Gurkha veterans and widows in Nepal who aren’t eligible to receive a British Army pension. For many, this is their only source of income.

Amidst the ongoing restrictions, the Trust continues to provide financial and emergency welfare support. Veterans who do not have access to bank accounts are most affected in the current situation. Their welfare and medical staff are deploying together to reach out to these areas and deliver essential medicine and their money at the same time.

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team of soldiers led by Major General Gez Strickland DSO MBE Colonel The Royal Gurkha Rifles climbed 8,848m (the equivalent of Mount Everest) in just 23 days from their base in Iraq. In aid of Gurkha veterans and families. You can donate to support them here: https://bit.ly/2BoP4IB

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Gurkhas run the Length of Country for Local Hospital in Folkstone

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Company The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles (1 RGR) ran 1956km (or 815 laps of their camp!) to raise £3000 for the William Harvey Hospital, Ashford. Many of the soldiers’ wives are ‘key workers’ at the hospital and are currently working to help fight coronavirus. Planned by Sergeant Indra Gurung and Corporal Naresh Rai (whose wife works as a nurse at the hospital) began on 11th May 2020. Soldiers took turns to run laps 24/7 until they completed the distance, representing the ‘round the clock’ care which NHS staff provide.

1 RGR are part of 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army’s airborne rapid reaction force, which is held at Very High Readiness in order to be able to deploy anywhere in the world at short notice. Fitness is an important part of their training and since the introduction of social distancing guidelines, the Battalion have been coming up with more novel approaches.

Sergeant Indra Gurung said: “We have witnessed our NHS Staff providing 24/7 comprehensive care while putting themselves at higher risk of developing the virus and

would like to express our huge thank you to all the NHS staff throughout the nation.

They are fantastic and are working selflessly throughout the pandemic to keep us safe.

We know how hard it is, both physically and mentally, for people to cope with this situation, and we have been motivated by

this hardship to run the equivalent length of the UK from Land’s End to John O’ Groats in support of this amazing hard work.”

Corporal Naresh Rai said: “We chose to raise money for the William Harvey Hospital Trust because it is our local hospital; normally we end up there for general appointments or emergencies, but in this time of national crisis, we would like to provide some extra support for them. Our aim was to raise as much money as possible for our local NHS Trust to show our appreciation for their outstanding work during this pandemic.”

East Kent Hospitals’ Chief Operating Officer, Lee Martin said: ‘We are delighted to have the support of our local Royal Gurkha Rifles Regiment in raising funds for East Kent Hospitals Charity’s Helping Your Hospitals Appeal. The funds raised will be used to provide additional support for staff wellbeing at the William Harvey Hospital, during the coronavirus outbreak. Our communities have been wonderfully supportive of our local hospitals, and we wish the regiment the very best of luck in their fundraising challenge.’

Lieutenant Colonel Chris Conroy, Commanding Officer The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles, handed over a cheque for £6,358 to the William Harvey Hospital charity at Sir John Moore Barracks at the start of June.

PARBATE Vol 72 No 5: June 2020 15

The June VCs

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tories of Gurkha bravery can be found strewn across the pages of history, with incredible feats of courage, selfless commitment and stirring tales of perseverance continuing to inspire service within the Brigade of Gurkhas. While these acts of bravery go beyond the numerous gallantry awards proudly listed in the regimental histories, the award of the Victoria Cross, the highest award for valour in the British Army, holds a special place within the Brigade.

The month of June marks the anniversary of five of the 26 Victoria Crosses held by Gurkha soldiers and their officers, each won during the Burma campaign in June 1944.

Despite the campaign being widely considered one of the most gruelling of the Second World War, Gurkhas distinguished themselves through joint actions as well as individual acts of courage, five of which resulted in the award of a Victoria Cross.

Rifleman Ganju Lama (1) was one of the soldiers of B Coy 1/7th Gurkhas who on 12 June 1944 had been tasked with counterattacking a Japanese force that had broken into a defensive position at Ningthoukhong, near Imphal. Ganju Lama, despite suffering a broken wrist and other wounds, engaged the Japanese tanks that had opened fire on

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the company with his 15kg PIAT (Projector Infantry Anti-Tank), continuing to engage the fleeing tank crews with grenades, ensuring they were all either killed or wounded before finally seeking medical attention for himself.

The fighting around Imphal continued to intensify, resulting in two more VCs being awarded for actions carried out by 2/5th Gurkhas just thirteen days later, at the key features of Mortar Bluff and Water Picket. Subedar Netrabahadur Thapa (2), commanding a small force of 41 Gurkhas, came under attack by a Japanese company on 25 June, leaving his detachment outnumbered and outgunned. In an attempt to hold the position while encouraging his men and calling in support, Netrabahadur Thapa unrelentingly withstood repeated attacks, rushing forward with kukri and grenades, before he was killed by the blast of a Japanese grenade.

It was during an action the following day to recapture Mortar Bluff and Water Picket, which had by this point fallen to the Japanese, that Naik Agansing Rai (3) of 2/5th Gurkhas was awarded his VC for storming the Japanese position at Mortar Bluff, eliminating their anti-tank gun and machinegun crew, enabling the company to retake both objectives after intense hand-tohand combat.

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While battle raged over the possession of north-east India, actions behind enemy lines in northern Burma by the Chindit forces saw the award of a further two VCs. Captain Michael Allmand (4), commanding B Coy 3/6th Gurkhas, led an assault on a vital bridge on the outskirts of the fortified town of Mogaung on 11 June, allowing 77th Brigade to advance on their objective.

He saw further action on entering Mogaung where he was mortally wounded as he charged at a machine-gun post on 23 June.

It was during this action that the final VC winner of June 1944, Rifleman Tulbahadur Pun (5), advanced towards B Coy’s objective of Red House with just two men from his casualty-depleted section, both of whom fell shortly after. Tulbahadur Pun singlehandedly rushed Red House under heavy fire, killing all within the area and enabling the capture of the objective.

Gurkha soldiers and their officers would go on to win another five Victoria Crosses by the end of 1945, a total of twelve awards for actions during the Second World War alone.

The Gurkha Museum is proud to tell the story of each of these awards alongside countless other enduring tales of Gurkha bravery.

Duty Trek Jiri to Ragini

By Sergeant Kumar Thapa, 249 Gurkha Signal Squadron

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ieutenant Colonel Tim Cooper, Commanding Officer (CO), 3rd (UK) Division Signal Regiment, Major James Corns, Officer Commanding (OC) 249 Gurkha Signal Squadron and myself as a guide conducted Duty Trek to the Eastern Part of Nepal, Jiri to Ragini (Okhaldhunga) over the period of 1st -12th March 2020.

After a comprehensive brief on the Gurkha Welfare Trust projects, the services they provide to the Gurkha veteran communities in Nepal and also details on our task by Captain (Retd) Pim at Area Welfare Centre Bagmati, on the 3rd March we headed out on an 8 hour journey towards Jiri. Here we took the opportunity to visit one of our soldiers’ family residing in there.

During the trek, we visited welfare pensioners, schools and water projects and some of the critical infrastructure for a sustainable community. As members of the host Unit of Trailwalker events, it was truly amazing to see the use of charitable donations and the good works of the Gurkha Welfare Trust making a positive impact within in Nepal. Continual home medical and financial hardship support

were among the services, not forgetting the water provision and education for the youth around Bandar, Priti and Bhuji (villages in the Ramechhap region). We were humbled by the hospitality of the locals, one of the traits which is part of our heritage and was always evident.

Nature has its own course; large spurs, deep re-entrants and steep valleys were not helping us to get around easily, and perhaps at times testing our fitness. However, the wry grins of our porters dai haru made it look like a normal routine. Walking along the shores of Likhu Khola, over rickety suspension bridges, through astonishing Rhododendron forests, witnessing the ploughing of terraced paddy fields were just a few of the trip’s highlights visually.

Hailstorms in the afternoon, ubiquitous dal, bhat and curry with the occasional local chicken for meals and taking refuge at any available schools were our daily norm until we arrived back at Kathmandu.

Perhaps the lack of internet access on the trek helped us to enjoy the tranquil experience of prominent Gaurishanker, Numbar Himal and Pikey Peaks.

It is a humble way of experiencing and understanding our culture and tradition, whilst at the same time caring for our veterans.

Moreover, even with the growing age of our veterans in Nepal, we found their resilience and enthusiasm inspiring, demonstrating the true embodiment of our Kaida.

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The Road to P company

By Rifleman Sailesh Rai, The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

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ot everyone would dare to attempt P Company selection, but I was highly determined to try. Currently The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles (1 RGR) is serving under 16 Air Assault Brigade and it was a desire of mine to represent 1 RGR as a P Coy-trained soldier.

The adventure began in December 2020 where I was pulled off a mortar exercise on Salisbury Plain. Other members of the team were preparing with self-training during Christmas leave or, where possible, in a group through a fitness program set by the QMSI. In contrast, I went Nepal to get married and when I came back, I needed to work hard to keep pace with the team.

After passing the screening we went to the pre-selection event at Crowborough.

This was a terrible three week long gruelling selection which was divided into three phases: familiarisation, screening and conditioning and final output test. We were put through very tough physical activity; two high intensity physical activities each day and that let our

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muscles deplete and reduced our energy.

Physical activities comprised of speed play carrying a water bottle, chocolate bar and spare t-shirt on skeleton webbing, free running, tabbing with 36lbs, which seems to be more running than tabbing. The staff would remove any personnel who got injured or fell back in the squad while on PT sessions.

On 26th January 2020 along with the remainder of the team from 1 RGR, I arrived for the ‘All Arms Pre-Parachute Selection 19.04’ in Catterick. We already had tired bodies, but we started on Monday with an 8 mile run followed by the Personal Fitness Assessment.

The selection is split into two phases: formative and summative. The formative phase is two and half weeks of build-up training designed to progressively and constructively fatigue candidates in preparation for a test week.

Anyone who could not meet the standard for fitness would get a red card. Red card holders were under lots of stress as you could be removed from the selection if you received three red cards.

I was initially awarded two red cards on the first and second day respectively in the formative phase. But fortunately, I managed to stay on the formative phase to participate in the summative phase. The summative phase comprised of eight tests where a red card would not be counted; the only vision would be to pass eight gruelling tests. No one would have believed how difficult it was carrying a log with a single hand for 2 miles and completing a 10-mile tab under 1 hour 50 minutes as a squad. Officer Commanding P company said; ‘’now the only thing that drives your body is your mental ability as your body has already gone through serious fatigue’’. “If you want to do it you can do it - if you don’t want to then no one can help you.’’ This statement proves that only you are responsible for staying motivated and determined.

Finally, the tough and gruelling course ended on 18th February 2020 with the beret parade, on which every successful candidate was given a maroon beret. Now I am proud to wear the beret I have earned as part of 16 Air Assault Brigade.

What it takes to be a Combat Engineer

By Sapper Anand Sinjali - Queen’s Gurkha Engineers

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very Sapper that joins the Queen’s Gurkha Engineer (QGE) is always alarmed by the rumours about the Combat Engineer Class 3 Course during Phase 1. This results in a fair amount of fear and trepidation.

The aim of the10-week Combat Engineers course is to provide the knowledge and skills required to meet the basic operational requirements of the Royal Engineers. Unlike previous intakes, this year 73 Training Party, Intake 2019 was divided into two different troops, due to the increased number of trainees. The course is divided into five different phases: Preparation, Counter Mobility, Section Mobility, Troop Mobility and Survivability. Followed by a final exercise to assess our ability to apply knowledge and skills in the field.

At the start of the course, we had difficulty coping with the busy schedule, learning new topics and understanding the cultural differences. However, as the course progressed, we started to get more organised. We gave our best efforts with enthusiasm and dedication that helped us to become trained Sappers.

Besides learning a wide spectrum of military engineering skills, we also took part in a charity bag packing event organised by Corporal Roshan Budha-Magar to support the ABF Soldiers’ Charity and The Pahar Trust. We also ran a charity movie night, organised by Corporal Amber Mangmu, to support Welfare pensioner Sapper Ram Bahadur Rai (Retd).

This year’s Attestation parade was different to previous years as it was held at Hawley Hard, Gibraltar Barracks, immediately after the course final exercise extraction on 13th March 20. Lieutenant General Wardlaw OBE, the Colonel Commandant QGE, and the Gurkha Major reviewed the parade. Prizes were presented to the winners by the chief

guest. The Top Combat Engineer (Academic) prize was awarded to Sapper Akash Rai and the Top Student prize to Sapper Sujan Tamang.

The money raised by the 73 Training Party during the charity events was handed to regional director of the ABF Soldiers’ Charity and Colonel Commandant QGE. We were able to train together with British and commonwealth soldiers who were also aspiring to join the Corps of Royal Engineers, offering an opportunity to learn about each other, integrate, work as a team and learn more about each other’s cultures. Becoming a combat engineer is not only about securing the right to wear the Royal Engineers’ stable belt, it also about learning new skills every day, having a positive attitude to strive to be better, unlocking potential and using curiosity and eagerness to become a rational and thinking Soldier.

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Brigade Culture and Language Team Remote delivery of Nepali Language Training

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he effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are being felt across all military activities including training and courses being undertaken in the UK and overseas.

The Brigade Culture and Language Team (BCLT) has been no exception to this as it adapts to COVID-19 restrictions to deliver the Nepali language and culture training in the ‘new normal’.

The Survival Nepali Language Course (SNLC) in Nepal had just completed Week 4 and the Doko Run on 20th March 2020 as the decision was made to repatriate the instructors and students back to the UK. It was a blow to the students who were expecting to complete the course in Nepal but everyone understood the logic to cut short the course as Nepal moved into lockdown to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic on the 22nd March.

Due to the current circumstances, the BCLT Instructors have been busy in the design and delivery of an online adaptation of the Nepali language training to the Young Officers (YO) in order to minimise skill fade as well as bring them up to the required Standard Language Profile Level 1 (SLP 1) in Listening and Speaking. The BCLT Instructors are delivering training remotely links using an online app, which is generally used to facilitate video meetings across many businesses around the world.

The BCLT is planning to re-convene and conclude the course in Camberley in June and hopes to qualify as many students as possible for the Standard Language Profile (SLP) Level 1 as set by the MOD Language Assessment Board (LAB).

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By Major B Sherchan MBE, Brigade Culture and Language Team

Farewell PT for Newly Selected RMAS Instructor

By Corporal Shilash Rai, The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

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any aspire but few succeed in becoming an Instructor at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) where all officers of the British Army are trained. A Sandhurst Instructor from the Anti-Tank Platoon, The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles is probably a first in history. Therefore, Colour Sergeant Dhan Ghale has become a great source of pride and joy in our platoon.

The news of his successful selection to be a Sandhurst instructor has brought great joy into every member of the platoon. Because Colour Sergeant Dhan has always been a perfect role model, motivator and inspiration to everyone from the platoon. He is a transformational visionary and exemplary commander. As a result, we always looked up to him.

He holds four distinctions from his attendance on the Anti-Tank Section Commander course, PSBC LFTT, OTIC and SCBC SAA course, the top student of the Brigade of Gukhas drill course, and a gold medalist from Cambrian patrol 2017 as a team commander.

Colour Sergeant Dhan is also a recipient of 16 Air Assault Brigade Commander’s Coin and an Army Sergeant Major’s Coin. He was deployed on multiple tours; five in Afghanistan, one Anti-Poaching operation in Africa (OP CORDED 4), and an STTT (MALBATT 10) as a JWI (Jungle Warfare Instructor) in Malawi.

Recently, we organised a farewell PT session for Colour Sergeant Dhan; he had to tab 5km with a Launch Tube Assembly (LTA) and on completion, he had to flip a tire the entire length of the camp’s main car park. He then swapped out the tire for two LTAs in hand. From this point he had to run out through the front gate to engage an enemy target the platoon were enthusiastically giving an indication for. This was all done to make the farewell unique, fun and memorable so that we could always remember his legacy and follow his example. He has set the standard in the Anti-Tank Platoon and we will remember him for many years to come.

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Exercise SIPALU DRIVER

By Sapper Amar Sing Thapa, Queen’s Gurkha Engineers

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ueen’s Gurkha Engineers (QGE), 70 Squadron, Support Troop conducts a driver training exercise known as the infamous “Exercise SIPALU DRIVER” on a yearly basis. Corporal Amir Gurung led the 2020 Exercise as he is one of the most experienced instructors within the QGE. This year it was held at Aldershot Training Area ‘D’ for a week. It was my first driver training since I completed my Driver Class 2 course. I was looking forward to refreshing my driving skills and gaining more experience on and off road.

The main objective of the Exercise was to help develop and test the capacity and capability of both experienced and inexperienced drivers by refreshing their skills and knowledge about cross country driving. As there is a saying, “Nothing beats experience as the perfect learning tool”.

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The Exercise began with some classroom activity which was informative. Some of the lessons taught were vehicle breakdown procedure, use of Technical Documentation Online (TDOL), uses of Army Equipment Support Publications (AESPs) and how to fill up F/MT 3 series form. Everyday was a learning day for us as we learnt how to go through the 601’s from AESPs and how to use table 6 and 7. The following day we went through cross country driving and how to drive across different types of obstacles. We also went through tactical night convoy driving, firstly driving with naked eyes and then followed by driving with Lucie goggles. The next day, we had a road convoy move from Brunswick Camp to Larkhill Camp.

I also received a lesson on ‘How to Camouflage a Vehicle’ which was very useful and added to my skill set and knowledge.

On 30th June 2011 Gurkha Staff and Personnel Support Company was formed

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n the 30th June 2011 the Gurkha Staff and Personnel Support Company formed at Shorncliffe. The clerks of the Brigade of Gurkhas exchanged their Royal Gurkha Rifle’s cap badge for the badge of the newly formed Gurkha Staff and Personnel Support Company (GSPS Company).

Gurkha Staff and Personnel Support Company (GSPS) is the unit of the Brigade of Gurkhas that provides specialist HR,

Personnel and Business Administration, Finance, Accounting and ICT support to the Brigade of Gurkhas including the wider Army, during peacetime and on operations.

Its personnel are soldiers first and serve alongside and administer every unit in the Brigade of Gurkhas.

The role of the GSPS is to deliver real time administration, day in day out, and often under the most arduous and austere conditions.

Climbing the height of Mount Everest on the stairs in Brunei

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ergeant Ravin Rai, Support Company the Second battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles since the 1st May 2020 has been scaling the height of Mount Everest by climbing stairs of his quarter at the Tuker Lines estates.

He is taking part in the Everest Challenge dressed in military clothing, carrying 20 kg on his back and expects to complete the ascend (8,848 metres) by the 23rd July. He is committed to raise ÂŁ2000 for the Gurkha Welfare Trust and is appreciative of people who have supported him so far. You can support him on this link bit.ly/3gJOipW

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Exercise CLAN

By Rifleman Subash Gurung, The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

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(Sari Bair) Company, The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles (1 RGR) has been busy during the COVID-19 outbreak. From hosting remote coffee mornings on Nepalese Mother’s Day in order to congratulate families of new-borns and celebrate mothers, to conducting a musical evening for B Company to celebrating Nepali New Year 2077. It is safe to say that everyone has been proactive and taken the initiative wherever possible to make a positive impact. fter Retaining a sense of community, 16 weeks of arduous training solidarity and combating encouraging highweather, spirits while brutal has become job of every and threethe personnel fromGurkha the Queen’s their in B Company, and Own family Gurkhamembers Logistic Regiment managed they have risencomplete to the challenge! to successfully the All Arms Exercise CLAN is one such example of Commando Course. innovation within the company to enhance team work, create opportunities to lead, and contribute to the company’s operational effectiveness. Led by Sergeant Ajayaram Gurung and Rifleman Subash Gurung (4 Platoon), it was a one-day event in which 9 households, totalling fifty-nine members competed against each other. It challenged the participants physically and mentally. It entailed a Kim’s Game, a military knowledge test, and group fitness tests. SLA Corridors with shared ablutions (considered as Households under government rules) rotated throughout the stands so social distancing guidelines were maintained throughout.

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The fitness stand consisted of 50 burpees, 30 press-ups, 50 jumping squats, 50 jumping mountain climbers and 50 walking lunges, followed by a 1.2km run, the timer stopping when all the household had crossed the finishing line, making it a group Throughout course weand underwent effort - requiringthe team work, everyone a series of exercises honing the Commando to support each other. Three Gurujis judged skills this included river maintaining crossings, platoon level on exercise technique, fairness tactics, night navigations, Duncan drills and throughout the competition. Leading by FIBUA tactics.

To pass out this course example was required for from the exercises, as we had to go through several physical an individual from each household hadtests; to Bottomfield pass Endurance course, synchronise each out, repetition in order that 9-mile speed march, Tarzan assault course the team finished as fast as possible.

It also and finishing with infamous 30-mile demonstrated areas of weakness to run. workThe directing staff “we will test you in on, due to thequoted, unfamiliarity of some of the your lows” and they really did, pushing us bodyweight exercises, resulting in awareness beyond ourtolimits and emotionally draining us. of an area improve on for the future!

Although the tests were extremely After one-minute rest upon finishingtough, the through sufficient preparation and fitness stand, households started theembodying Kim’s the Commando spirit we were to able to push game.

This required individuals remember ourselves to the highest standard required 15 items in 1 minute and 30 seconds, before to passtested theseon tests. the 80 Army wide being howOfmany they could recall, personnel who started the course only 30 by sprinting to a piece of paper and writing managed to complete it and pass.

Despite the items down. The challenge of using of all memory the challenges, having never given up one’s while physically fatigued was demanding, but again a useful experience for the future, as it increased individuals’ mental resilience and robustness. With an average score of 10 out of 15, Rifleman Andolan Rai (4 Platoon) managed an impressive 14 out of 15.

we maintained a positive attitude which kept us on the right track to earn our place in the Commando Brotherhood.

This course took place just in time before the impact of COVID-19 issues and restrictions on training across the Army.

The final stand consisted of a military knowledge test based on the MATTs Service Personnel complete yearly, with a top score of 48. Time pressure and physical fatigue again made it difficult, but the households put in an admirable effort - with Lance Corporal Anuch Gurung (5 Platoon) scoring 47 out of 48 marks! An excellent effort was made by all households, but 5A lead

by Lance Corporal Anuch Gurung won the overall competition, and Exercise CLAN. Maintenance of high standards, physical robustness and mental agility, teamwork and innovation are all important lessons learned from Exercise CLAN, and it was a useful exercise to conduct during the Covid-19 lockdown. We would like to thank our B Company Chain of Command for this opportunity and for conducting this event which will remain in the hearts and minds of the SP throughout their army career.

Photographer Alex Welirang, captures Gurkhas on camera

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lex Welirang is a photographer and military historian and was in London in 2019 and gained access to photograph the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Corps when they were The Queen’s Guard at Buckingham Palace. His images are exceptional, and we thought worth further exposure to you.

Alex said, “Since I was in college I’ve had a passion for military history because of the stories of courage and bravery in soldiers.

This led me to take a degree in history when I moved to London from my home country Indonesia in 2014. Currently, I’m studying

another degree in heritage management as I see my future career in museums to retell stories for others to remember.”

“I believe photography is a powerful tool in recording history which is why I decided to document the British Armed Forces whose traditions are rich with it. This began in February 2019 and continues today where I post the photos on my Instagram called War Lens (@war_lens). Ultimately, War Lens has three goals: to preserve stories of the past, to record the present, and to provide an understanding for the future.”

We hope you enjoy the images.

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Queen’s Gurkha Engineers eFIFA competition

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he Queen’s Gurkha Engineers (QGE) recently ran an eFIFA tournament at Invicta Park Barracks. The players either played from a social facility, following social distancing, whilst others played from there houses or single accommodation rooms through internet connections.

This provided an opportunity for QGE personnel to participate in an enjoyable competition for team cohesion outside of work. It enhanced teamwork and selfdiscipline during pandemic lockdown period after a challenge from The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles (1 RGR) to play there winning eFIFA team from a few weeks ago.

The competition was played between the best 20 players from 69 and 70 SQN, any rank permitted. The overall winner of the competition was Sapper Prakash (69 SQN) and Sapper Devendra (70 SQN).

They will be representing QGE in order to decide the best overall Brigade of Gurkhas team. The event was organised by Corporal Suryahang Rai, Sapper Prakash Gurung, Sapper Hemanta Gurung, Sapper Wagok Rai

24 Hour Charity Bike Ride Warrant Officer Class 2 (Squadron Sergeant Major) Eka Bahadur Rai, Queen’s Gurkha Engineers

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aving spent the 14 days in precautionary self isolation due to COVID-19, I have had time to observe the humanity and compassion being delivered by our health workers in the NHS. Providing 24/7 intensive care while putting themselves in danger, our NHS brethren are living examples of discipline, bravery and selfless commitment which we ourselves aspire to.

Seeing the physical and emotional roller coaster our NHS staff are going through has motivated and energised me to take up on my 24 Hour, non-stop cycle challenge. My aim was to raise as much money as possible for the local NHS trust. In total of £3,808.00 was raised.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all my families, friends and colleagues for their exceptional support throughout and for their kind donation.

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Exercise TAMANDU TIGER Mountain biking in Bali

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By Rifelman Tshring Ghale, The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles

n unforgettable experience mountain-biking amidst the stunning natural backdrops of Bali! Exercise Tamandu Tiger was a mountain biking adventure across the countryside of Bali, Indonesia conducted by C Company, The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles (2 RGR). Expedition Leader Corporal Umesh Gurung, who was OIC for this event.

A total of 52 personnel, including four instructors from the Battalion took part in this voyage. It was executed on two different dates. The first group deployed on 8th March and the second group on 15th March 2020.

On the first day of mountain-biking, we were given a safety brief along with a brief on how the mechanism of a mountain bike functions as most of us were beginners. Having carried out the serviceability checks, we started the exploration of the Batur Volcano Loop. This route was full of spectacular scenery around Mount Batur volcano, located in the middle of the ancient caldera. Even after a tiring 27km biking experience, everyone seemed eager for the next day to indulge in a more thrilling itinerary.

On the second day, we took to Mount Abang - Telagawaja Route.

This trial was full of downhill areas with a variety of steep uphill inclines.

Some of us confident thrill-seekers took the opportunity to take this route at speed for fun, to conquer our fears and also for an adrenaline rush. While the less experienced enjoyed taking a calmer approach guided by the instructors. We came across several small villages which boasted tranquillity and got the chance to observe the simple living of the Balinese. The agricultural landscapes, full of rice terraces and greenery, set against the bright background, left us all in awe. The familiarity of the countryside reminded us all of our homeland, Nepal.

Without realisation, we had already completed 38km.

Through this exceptional experience, we’re able to elevate team cohesion, build our confidence in trying new activities and take an enjoyable approach in achieving our training objectives.

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Afno Bichar

We asked Gurkhas from The Second Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles:What major changes have occurred to your daily routine during the COVID-19 lockdown?

Rifleman Parsuram Budha

Rifleman Kumar Chemjong

The busy life in Recce Platoon has changed significantly as the world reacts to the spread of COVID-19. The gym and pool are currently closed, and we are no longer allowed to have events that would involve many people attending such as company parades or messing.

When the lockdown was imposed, we were only allowed to leave our accommodation for outdoor fitness once a day and for food. Thankfully now this has relaxed slightly as Brunei brings the virus under control. We can now conduct lessons in a 3-hour block each day if we stay in small, socially distanced groups. I have been learning about first aid, conducting radio training, and had some time on the ranges. I have also found time around this to conduct some selfstudy on the Defence Learning Environment (DLE) via Defence Gateway.

During this pandemic both my personal and professional life has been affected, some of the changes have been beneficial and fruitful, while others have made life more difficult and stressful. Some of the positive changes I have noticed to my daily life; health and hygiene has drastically improved and is at the forefront of everyone’s minds, and I have spent time reading

Rifleman Dawa Zangbu Sherpa The arrival of COVID-19 lockdown has changed my daily life in many distinctive ways. I have started consuming less junk food. Whereas before I used to go out every weekend to restaurants and use a dine-in service, now I cook at home and stay home. This gives me more spare time to learn from the DLE and to read novels, and my health has improved because my diet is better.

I can see a new person in me, I have newly formed habits which have led to better overall health and hygiene. Similarly, some negative effects due to COVID-19 are that we cannot currently go for holidays, to the cinema or play sports all the time - instead we stay at home and maintain 2m distance with friends. Before we used to do PT every day at 0630 with the Coy, but now it is our personal responsibility to maintain our physical fitness and Company PT is only once a week in small groups, I have found it a little difficult with the gym being closed.

The pandemic has forced us to find digital solutions for our learning and training, as well as socialising. It has also forced me to use my initiative and help from PTIs to come up with my own PT plan.

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insightful books and meditating. Looking at the changes to our working environment; PT is now conducted in groups of 10 people, instead of the whole company of up to 80 people. This change was different but enjoyable, as the PTIs could focus more on individuals.

B (Gallipoli) Company has run some excellent training including navigational exercises on some of the training areas.

Having recently completed JLC, I have been given responsibility to train the next intake on the cadre, something I have really enjoyed. Initially morale was affected as we were not able to go home to see friends and family over leave, but the Gurkha pariwar united us and ensured that we were looking after each other.

This pandemic has affected the world and may continue to for a long time to come, however, we will continue to adapt, and it is our responsibility to respond positively and make the most of the present situation.

Rifleman Subash Gurung The first effect on my routine was on the physical interaction with people. With social distancing being imposed and the fear of the virus itself I was unable to hang around with my numbeiries and gurujis. This also led to roll calls being distributed through electronic means which I see as a positive change. I am a very outgoing person and travelling is a great way to refresh the mind after day or weeks or months of hard work, but the restrictions on travel have created a certain stress in my day to day life. I believe the prospect of travelling somewhere in weekends and leave gives a boost to morale in my work and personal life.

COVID-19 meant minimising non-essential work which meant I had a lot of free time on my hands. I used this free time to focus on my personal development such as preparing for future courses like JLC. I developed a habit of reading articles, news, and military pamphlets.

Pre-COVID-19 we were busy as a Company which meant I was worn out by the end of the day, but this time has allowed me to see and create a habit of reading and learning new things.