The Sustainer Summer 2024

Sustainer THE

13

Corps Motto: We Sustain

March: On Parade by Albert Elms

Slow March: Lion, Sword and Crown by Craig Bywater

Welcome to the summer edition of The Sustainer. In the four months since my previous ‘Editor’s Note’, much has happened. We have a new Master General of Logistics, a new Colonel RLC and following the General Election in July; the Country has new political leadership, with an agenda for change. On the global level, the geo-political landscape seems to be changing and let’s hope this is for the better.

But change wasn’t meant to be a theme of this edition of The Sustainer, rather we had asked for articles that showcased charitable acts across the Corps. We were not disappointed. There are stories throughout this magazine including cross channel swims, long distance and physical endurance events, military support hubs and breakfast clubs; all staged to raise money for charity or to help those less fortunate. One story stands out. On page eight you can read about a young soldier serving in 17 P&M Regt, who shortly prior to joining the Army donated his bone marrow and stem cells and saved the life of a child in the USA. This year he met that child and her mother for the first time at a star-studded awards ceremony in London. He wants to tell his story to inspire others to consider joining the bone marrow doner register.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Regarding celebrity, Brigadier Mike Caldicott CBE and the team from the RLC Museum have been hanging out with Top Gear's former presenter Richard Hammond for the last few months. It was all part of the restoration of Monty’s Rolls Royce and its participation at the D-Day 80 event in Normandy. Read the full story on pages 24 and 25.

Since my spring edition ‘Editor’s Note’, I have not received a single response to my invitation to readers to provide some constructive comments on how we can address any shortcomings in terms of the content, design and editorial approach of this magazine. I should either be flattered that the 25% of responders to reader survey conducted in late 2023, who said ‘room for improvement’ have changed their mind… Or no one reads my editorial. I’ll go with the former assumption.

Over the next few weeks and months, we will be reviewing the RLC’s media and communications strategy, so your input will be valued and welcomed.

8 Peter Shakespeare Email: Peter.Shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Contact: +44 (0) 7901 676309.

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

Editorial Staff

Editor: Peter Shakespeare

Editorial assistant: Anne Pullenkav

Email: anne.pullenkav@icloud.com

Graphic Design: David Blake

FORTHCOMING SUSTAINER COPY DEADLINES:

Winter - 4 Oct 24, Spring 25 - 4 Mar 25, Summer - 5 Jul 25

Change of Address: Serving members of the Corps who are due to move into or out of non-RLC appointments (eg E2) and other subscribers are requested to notify the Editor of their change of address. No information, no magazine!

Publisher: The Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps, RHQ The RLC, DCLPA Worthy Down, Winchester Hampshire. SO21 2RG.

Email: peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 7901 676309

Typesetting, Printing, Binding and Distribution: Holbrooks Printers Ltd, Norway Road, Hilsea, PORTSMOUTH, Hampshire PO3 5HX.

Data Privacy: We distribute The Sustainer using mailing data held in a secure contacts database within RHQ The RLC. Your inclusion on this database is by virtue of the fact you are serving in the military, or you are a current member of the RLC or Forming Corps

Associations. The Sustainer only uses your personal data for the purpose of sending you the magazine. The mailing data is treated in the strictest confidence, is password protected, is only shared with our printer and is deleted after each use. If any serving RLC personnel have concerns with regards to the storage and use of their personal data they should contact RHQ The RLC’s Data Protection Officer, Richard Stockman. Richard is Assistant Regimental Secretary and can be contacted at: Richard.Stockman256@mod.gov.uk

Photographs: The Editor accepts photographs for publication on the understanding that those submitting them have, where required by data protection legislation, obtained consent to publication from those depicted. Anyone who believes this is not the case or has a DPA related concern should contact the Editor. peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk

Advertising: While we do accept paid-for advertisements, space is very limited. Please contact the editor.

Security: This Journal contains official information. It should be treated with discretion by the recipient.

© Crown Copyright: All material in this Journal is Crown Copyright and may not be reproduced without the permission of the Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps.

© Cartoons are copyright.

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

Front Cover: 47 AD Sqn over Gaza. Image Cpl Tim Laurence RAF

Trialling the fuel of the future

20 Transport Squadron RLC has been selected for the on-going trial of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV) in London. This trail has been aimed at assessing the viability and scalability of hydrogen-powered vehicles as an alternative to traditional fossil fuel vehicles, focusing on MoD white fleet vehicles.

SSgt Byatt and Sgt Tedros were invited to Toyota HQ in Epsom to be introduced to the Toyota Mirai and after being familiarised with the vehicle, they headed to the Air Products Refueller at Heathrow to be shown the process of refuelling the vehicles. Sgt Tedros was the lead for delivering familiarisation training across 20 Tpt Sqn and HQ LONDIST staff.

20 Tpt Sqn has now inherited two Toyota Mirai (Generation 1) vehicles. These models were introduced in 2014 and was one of the pioneering hydrogen fuel cell vehicles available commercially. The key features of this model include the fuel cell stack which powers the vehicle, turning hydrogen into electricity to drive the vehicle. The only emission from the Mirai is water vapour. The first generation Mirai offers a range of 300 miles (480km), making it suitable for everyday use.

Early lessons were identified in the refuelling infrastructure and eco-driving techniques, which are deemed crucial aspects of FCEV adoption. Refuelling times for hydrogen vehicles can be comparable to traditional vehicles, but the availability of stations has been a limiting factor.

Eco-driving techniques have been quickly implemented by the 20 Tpt Sqn drivers, ensuring smooth acceleration and deceleration, which can maximise the efficiency of FCEVs, optimising their range and reducing energy consumption. 20 Tpt Sqn drivers were also educated on eco-driving habits specific to FCEVs to help improve their environmental performance. To heighten our knowledge on hydrogen, SSgt Byatt and Sgt Tedros attended a CILT ‘Powered

While the first generation Mirai can be seen driving around LONDIST, Toyota has since introduced the second generation Mirai, which features updated styling.

by Hydrogen’ event hosted by Metrobus in Crawley, West Sussex.

8 A 20 Sqn Toyota Mirai fills up with hydrogen at the Air Products Refueller, Heathrow

8 SSgt Byatt and Sgt Tedros with 20 Sqn’s Mirais

RLC Swimming Team completes historic two-way channel relay swim

Led and trained by WO1 Shawn Bailey MBE, a channel swimming veteran, on 17 Jul 24 members of the RLC Aquatics open water swimming team swam from England to France… and back!

The first leg, England to France, was swum in 10 hours 42 mins, and the second leg, back to England, was swum in 11hrs 34 mins. To put the two-way relay challenge into context, since 1875, only 48 other teams have completed a two-way cross-channel swim, and the RLC Aquatics team is the only military team to have achieved this accolade this century. Their robust training plan, individual and collective determination and strong swimming abilities helped them towards this phenomenal achievement. The team is the first ever ‘mixed’ military

In April, four members of 154 Regt represented the Army for Ex ATLAS EXPRESS, a six-day off-road navigational challenge held annually in Morocco.

The competition, otherwise known as the Santana Trophy, saw a multinational field of 42 classic and modern Land Rovers cover a 2,300km route across the Atlas

relay team to have completed a two-way channel swim. They are also the first team in RLC history to have ever achieved this.

Team members: Maj Clive Allford, Maj John Howell, Maj Paul Vidler, Capt Lucy Powell, WO1 Shawn Bailey MBE, Cpl Kelly May, Cpl Emma Meechan.

154 Regt Motorsport

Mountains and Saharan desert. Success was enjoyed by Pte Duncan Welsh, 239 (Fife) Squadron, as he was awarded the Spirit of the Event award.

Success was also seen during Ex ROADMASTER (The Army and Inter Services Driving Championships) at DST, where the Regt fielded four crews. Another inspiring performance saw 50% of partaking 154 Regt Reservists come in first place.

Looking forward to the next quarter, preparations gear up for the largest BAMA Navigation event of the year - Ex MUDMASTER on 25-27 Oct 24. You can find out more from Major Donald Urquhart: Donald.Urquhart925@mod.gov.uk

The King’s Birthday Honours List

The Royal Logistic Corps congratulates the following officers, warrant officers, SNCOs and JNCOs on their awards and commendations in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2024 Military Division.

MBE

Major AD Ford

Major GT Holdcroft

Acting Lieutenant Colonel JAB

Kennedy-Smith VR

Major AJ Thackway

MSM

Warrant Officer Class 1 MP Chester

CGS Commendation

Captain S Allister

Lance Corporal A D Byars

Warrant Officer Class 2 S D Easton

Major J R Frankling

Staff Sergeant M P Smyth

CFA Commendation

Acting Warrant Officer

Class 2 A S Haverty

Major W G Morris

Lieutenant Colonel N A Roberts

Major J E Sanford

Warrant Officer Class 2 A Woods

Comd HC Commendation

Major R C Barrett

Staff Sergeant D G Benjamin

Warrant Officer Class 2 N P Richards

Warrant Officer Class 1 G S Way

COMARRC Commendation

Major C F Peterson

The RLC Individual and Inter Unit Squash Championships

The RLC Individual and Inter Unit Squash Championships are being held 22-24 Oct 24, at Winchester Racquets and Fitness For more info on RLC Squash, contact: WO2 Ian Butterworth, Secretary - ian.butterworth386@mod.gov.uk

8 Ex ROADMASTER truck-class winners, Sgt Di-Iorio and LCpl Mallaney 154 Regt RLC

‘‘My initial observation is that I return to The RLC at what I believe is a truly exciting time to be a military logistician

A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE

The Colonel RLC

It is with great joy that I write this, my first article in The Sustainer Magazine, as the newly appointed Colonel of the Royal Logistic Corps. Before I begin, I must take this opportunity to thank Colonel Pat Allen ADC for his tremendous efforts in supporting the Corps for the past three years. I know I speak for all of us all in thanking him on the Corps’ behalf; I truly hope I can continue and build upon his outstanding work.

Having served in The RLC since I was seventeen years old, returning to the Corps family and taking my place at the helm is a huge privilege. I am very much looking forward to getting out and about, visiting regiments and individuals in situ, and finding my feet in the Corps once more. It is my intention to spend from now until Christmas on a fairly intensive visit programme, and I am keen to understand your thoughts on what is working and what is not. Please, when I am out and about, whatever your rank, be candid and honest with your views, I truly value your feedback, and this is my time to learn from you all. I will use my winter 24

edition Sustainer article to highlight the areas which I believe need my closest attention in the early part of my tenure and this will be shaped by the feedback I receive in the forthcoming months.

My initial observation is that I return to The RLC at what I believe is a truly exciting time to be a military logistician. The war in Ukraine has brought into sharp focus the importance of getting military logistics right, and the perils of failure, and at no time in recent history has it been more important to have both professional soldiers and professional logisticians within the Army. As we learn and relearn what it takes to deliver logistics at large scale it has been heartening to hear the universally positive feedback about the performance of those from within the Corps on Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER and other major deployments around the world. This realistic and testing training leaves the Corps well placed to offer the skills and experience whenever and wherever they are needed.

And lastly, I would like to thank you all once again for the warmest of welcomes and your best wishes, and I look forward to serving the Corps in the forthcoming years.

Colonel J S Powell ADC

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

The Master General of Logistics as the titular Head of Corps chairs the Trust Fund supported by a board of Trustees representing the serving Corps, RLC Veteran community and four predecessor Corps (RCT, RAOC, RPC and ACC). The Forming Corps donated the Trust considerable capital which through investments has been the Corps’ main financial underpinning since 2006.

The objects of the Trust are the promotion of the efficiency of The Royal Logistic Corps, support to fraternity and the relief of need for eligible personnel. Each year the Corps reports on the status of these funds.

Annual Report 2023 (Abridged)

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

Structure, governance and management

The key challenges are to maintain income levels to support the full range of Trust responsibilities against a continuing backdrop of a reducing military strength and income from the DPS which for 2023 totalled £1.086M. Reviews of the Armed Forces will inevitably continue to reduce and change the structures of several Regular and Reserve units and re-locate others.

The RLC Association TrustAnnual Report and Accounts 2023 (Abridged)

Investing for the future

All the Trust’s investments are held in the Armed Forces Charities Growth & Income Fund; the investment performance has been affected by world markets and the war in Ukraine and following a sizeable loss in value in 2022 has since shown signs of recovery; meeting fully the ability to fund the Corps objectives in 2023 and beyond.

Despite some restructuring in the shape of the Corps, the Trust’s funds remain sufficient to support without detriment to Corps efficiency and those in need. Expenditure is being well managed with the combined value, as at 31 Dec 23, of the investments within the Trust being £40.3M

Public benefit

Responsibilities extend to the wider community; the RLC30 anniversary and the freedom of Winchester (freely available to the public), The RLC Museum (which received a grant of £120k) and other heritage support. The Corps funds Reserve Bands and the Corps of Drums which perform at a wide range of public events providing closer ties with our society. The RLC Foundation promotes professional excellence within the Corps.

Objectives and activities

The Trust supports the activities of The RLC, the largest Corps in the Army, totalling some 9,000 Regular and 3,000 Reserve soldiers: funding and managing the fraternal activities of Predecessor Corps across some 80 branches. The budget in 2023 to support all Corps activities was £2.61M. Regular, trained RLC Reservists and Veterans of The RLC and Predecessor Corps are eligible for benevolence support.

Communication with the Corps and our Associations is through The RLC Website,‘The Sustainer’, The ‘RLC Foundation Review’ plus a total of 8 Newsletters at a total cost for

publications, including distribution, of £83k. Grants totalling some £619k were made to support sport and adventurous training including shared use of the adventurous training lodge (Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre) in the Lake District.

Achievement and performance

Support to Benevolence represents the greatest single financial outlay of the Trust. The Army Benevolent Fund received a donation of £150k in 2023 and 1,300 grants totalling £945k were made to those in need. All Regular DPS members of The RLC are covered for accidental death whilst off duty. Unfortunately, we made two deaths in service grants in 2023. The DPS also funds the Medical Discharge Scheme; in 2023, £70.5k was paid to 88 medically discharged soldiers to assist with their enforced return to civilian life; grants being based on £100 per year of service to a maximum of 10 years. The respite holiday scheme has doubled in scope for 2023 at a cost of £52k

Efficiency of the Corps

The Trust continues to support Reserve Bands, Pipes and Drums and the Corps of Drums who continue to play an increasing role in community engagement and perform at charitable and public events. The Central Sergeants’ Mess received funding of £23.6k. The Headquarters Officers’ Mess, to which officers pay specifically an additional 50% of a Day’s Pay for events, spent £70k. Furthermore, grants continue to be made to assist units and formations in maintaining RLC traditions and heritage and fostering community engagement.

Summary:

Income from the DPS, investments (including growth), donations and subscriptions in 2023 totalled £3.2M

Expenditure across the full range of Corps activities for the said period was £3.5M

‘‘A Corps family round of applause must be given to

Lieutenant Karenza Bryson representing GB in modern pentathlon and Corporal Steve Cox representing Zimbabwe

in rowing at this year’s Olympic Games in Paris

FROM THE RANKS

Summer article already… Wow! It has been a high tempo and extremely busy period for the Corps family over the spring and summer months. Firstly, thank you to every single soldier (regular and reserve) and your families who continue to effortlessly deliver critical outputs, support key Corps activities, and perform at every given opportunity.

Our ‘Respite Holiday Scheme’ goes from strength to strength, and this year has already provided 70 holidays for our soldiers and their families to enjoy a break away with one another, with a further 30 planned over the summer and into autumn, taking us to an incredible 100 holidays. After a successful recce in July, I am hopeful, we will be able to provide a fourth location in Scotland in 2025 at the beautiful ‘Forces Manor’ to continue to add value for our soldiers (serving and veteran) and their families in the North.

In the spring edition, I mentioned our soldiers and units were operating at pace in preparation for deployments across Europe (Finland, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Sweden) to support Exercise STEADFAST DEFENDER, the largest NATO military exercise since the Cold War. Our soldiers had the opportunity to operate within multi-domain exercises for a six-month period, displaying their skills and the importance of logistic support to operations. The feedback received from speaking with those who deployed has been extremely positive.Yet again, our Corps family flag flies high within Defence and among our NATO allies.

In July, we introduced the inaugural Corps Festival of Sports at the home of the Corps in Worthy Down. It achieved a plethora of positive outcomes for our Corps family (650+ regular, reserve and veterans): empowering health and wellbeing,

creating cohesion, providing rich competition between our units, and developing ‘esprit de corps’ amongst our officers, soldiers, and veteran community alike. It also offered a better use of the Corps’ resources. A Corps family round of applause must be given to Lieutenant Karenza Bryson representing GB in modern pentathlon and Corporal Steve Cox representing Zimbabwe in rowing at this year’s Olympic Games in Paris. An incredible life and sporting achievement for both of you. Well done.

I would like to finish and take this opportunity on behalf of the Corps family to publicly thank Colonel P A Allen. His selfless commitment and dedication to continually seek opportunities for the betterment of our soldiers’ and officers’ lives and careers over the last three years has been immense. A true leader who cares about his people – we thank you, as a collective, for everything you have done. We wish you, Karen, Jack, and Archie all the absolute best for the future. It gives me huge pleasure to welcome our new Colonel RLC, Colonel Jacqueline Powell ADC, back to the Corps family. We have been blessed to have another leader appointed who is people focused, genuinely cares, and has an energy to match. We all look forward to supporting you over the next two to three years.

WO1 S A Muir Corps Sergeant Major RLC

RLC Skydivers jump to it

RLC Skydivers competed at the 2024 Armed Forces Parachute Championships (AFPC) at Skydive Netheravon, hosted by the Army Parachute Association, in July.

The annual AFPC brings together skydivers from far and wide across the Tri-Service community to compete in an array of disciplines. These included a synchronised team of four skydivers creating static and dynamic shapes in Formation Skydiving; Canopy Formation requires two parachutes to be intentionally, repeatedly docked by their pilots; and individuals attempt to land on a target in the accuracy competition.

The RLC team of 10 personnel entered several categories and

departed the week-long competition jingling with medals.

The RLC Silver Stars Army Parachute Display Team is working towards a return to conducting displays in 2025, representing the Corps in its Engage to Recruit role.

• Gold: Senior Formation SkydivingCapt Calway

Intermediate Formation SkydivingCapt Calway, Sgt Icely, LCpl Gibson, LCpl Hogg.

Free Fly Rookie - Cpl Moss, LCpl Hogg.

• Silver: Senior Team AccuracyCapt Hoskins, Capt Calway, Sgt Icely, LCpl Gibson, LCpl Hogg Canopy Formation - Capt Hoskins, Sgt Icely

• Bronze: Canopy FormationCpl Limbu, LCpl Gibson

Nepal Border Run 25

SSgt Aaron McWilliams is a MovCon with BGN based in Kathmandu.

Not content with running marathons for charity he has decided to up the ante this year and take on a bigger challenge to raise £1,918 for a small orphanage in Nepal affected by the 2015 earthquake.

SSgt McWilliams is running 1,918 miles – the length of Nepali border between the Indian and Chinese sides - between 15 Jul 24 and 14 Jul 25. Running is taking place on three continents (Asia, Australasia and Europe) and will include the Kathmandu and Pokhara Marathons.

SSgt McWilliams says: “Any support is greatly appreciated, and all the money raised will go directly

to the orphanage to provide them with blankets, clothes, food and stationery to give the children a chance at a better life.”

He has a JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdf unding/NepalBorderRun2025 for anyone who wishes to support him.

Well Done RLC Olympians

Two of the three elite athletes from Britain’s Armed Forces to be selected to compete at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games serve in The Royal Logistic Corps.

2Lt Kerenza Bryson and Cpl Stephen Cox represented Team GB (Modern Pentathlon) and Zimbabwe (Men’s Single Skulls Rowing) respectively.

Both athletes put in impressive and determined performances to reach their respective finals, with 2Lt Bryson breaking an Olympic record in the process. While naturally disappointed neither make the podium, competing at the Olympic Games is an incredible achievement and both athletes realised childhood dreams. Well done, your hard work and commitment is an example to us all.

Acts of charity and benevolence take many forms, but it is rare to hear about someone giving a part of their body to help another.

Private Robert Brookes-Wardle is a 26-year-old Port Operator serving in 52 Squadron, 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC. Rob is from Lincoln and joined the Army in November 2021. He is a regular blood doner and at one session was asked if he would be prepared to go one step further. “I enjoy helping people and was donating blood prior to joining the Army,” he explains. “On my third donation the NHS asked whether I would be prepared to join the register of bone marrow and stem cell doners. Initially I said no, but they kept asking me, so I researched bone marrow donation online decided to do it and in 2019 found an international blood cancer charity called DKMS and went on the register through them. I had only been on the register for six months when I got a call.”

In the USA, a young mother called Didi was living in Louisiana with her one-year-old twin daughters Daylen and Demi. Tragically Daylen was diagnosed with HLH. Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare and fatal immune disorder where the body reacts inappropriately to a ‘trigger’, usually an infection. Specialised white blood cells become over-activated, causing severe inflammation and damage to tissues such as the liver, spleen and bone marrow. Despite treatment Daylen succumbed to the disease in 2018. Her sister Demi was diagnosed with HLH soon after. The only cure for the disease is a bone marrow and stem cell transplant. Through the international register, Demi’s medical team quickly found a doner who was a perfect match living in the UK.

Rob continues: “I was told by DKMS there was a family struggling and one of them needed a bone marrow and stem cell transplant and that I was an ideal match. Donating bone marrow requires a surgical procedure done under general anaesthetic. It takes about 45 minutes to take the bone marrow from the pelvis and stem cells are recovered from donated blood over four one-hour sessions. Following

Saving Demi

the surgical procedure, you are well recovered in two to three days and the donation process is nothing to be worried about.”

Rob explains that anonymity rules apply for two years following donation, but after this time had elapsed, he learnt who he had donated to and that they lived in the USA. He says: “It felt so rewarding when I found out who I had helped and especially so when I was told that Demi’s sister had been taken by the disease and I had saved Demi’s life. I was put in touch with Demi’s mother through

DKMS and stayed in regular contact with them.”

On the evening of 23 May 24, over 500 guests gathered at the Natural History Museum in London for the annual DKMS London Gala. Hosted by James Corden with notable attendees included Bob Geldof, Idris Elba and Trudie Styler, Rob finally got to meet Demi and Didi. “Meeting Demi and her mother for the first time at the Gala was such a good feeling, knowing that she is now heathy and happy. And meeting Demi’s mother, knowing she had lost her other twin Daylen was massively emotional for both of us.”

Rob adds: “I feel what I did was only something small. Once I was told my donation was needed, I just got on with it and did what I had to do. But to be able to give the gift of saving a life is incomparable. If you are interested in getting involved in bone marrow and stem cell donation there are two routes you can take. You can go through one of the charities [DKMS or Anthony Nolan] or the NHS has information on its website. Service Personnel in particular make ideal candidates to join the register. We are fit, heathy and recover easily from the donation process.”

8 For more information go to: https://www.dkms.org.uk/ and https://www.bbmr.co.uk/

YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL

RLC Soldiers

SO1’s introduction: Mrs Catherine Brown

I have undertaken the role of Acting SO1 RLC Soldiers Wing until the arrival of the new SO1 (estimated Nov 24). During this period, I will also continue to manage the Driver Dual Trade desk, Section 2 within the RLC Branch.

Your career at your fingertips with ‘My Career’ App

The ‘My Career’ app is your one-stop shop for managing job applications and keeping tabs on your job listings. It provides seamless access to vital information. This app is transforming the way APC understands and supports your career aspirations, making it easier than ever to align your goals with the opportunities available.

Inside the Appointment Board process

Appointment boards are the next step in the promotion process and the way we align soldiers to their next role when they come to their Future Availability Date. Staying informed is crucial. After each promotion board's results are announced, the RLC Soldiers section hosts CM Portal briefs via Microsoft Teams. These sessions are packed with valuable content:

• Examples of successful ePPP submissions

• Detailed timelines for the board process

• Crucial deadlines for ePPP submissions

• Dates when the boards convene. Not only do these briefs provide a wealth of

Looking for a ew hallenge We are ecruiting!

information, but they also offer a live Q&A segment, allowing direct interaction with us at APC. If you can’t make it to the live session, don’t worry. Recordings are available on the APC RLC Soldiers SharePoint page, ensuring you never miss out.

Dealing with promotion results

Promotion results day can be a rollercoaster of emotions. If you find yourself on the list of unsuccessful candidates, it’s important to remember that competition is fierce, with performances often very difficult to separate. You can request feedback through your Chain of Command on where you have placed but be patient. The APC team is particularly busy after results day, focusing on building appointment boards and addressing numerous role-related queries. We ask you allow at least a week before requesting feedback.

Key updates you need to know

Soldier’s Terms of Service (SToS)

On the 12 Jul 24 and updated SToS was published. This crucial document covers assignments, promotions, and transfers, providing clear guidelines for those looking to understand their career progression and eligibility for promotion.

Driver Dual Trade – Changes to policy and employment

The RLC Corps Instructions ‘H1.3 Promotion of Regular Soldiers’ has been updated to provide clearer direction on the selection and appointment of Driver Dual Trades (DDT). To assist in avoiding gaps across CEGs at OR709 in MTFP and preventing Dvr SP an equal opportunity to promote in trade.

RSM selection

Changes to the way we select our RSMs came into effect for all WO2’s in reporting period 1 Jul 24 – 30 June 2025. To be eligible for selection against an RLC E1 RSM vacancy, candidates must have served in a Squadron Sergeant Major E1 or E2 RLC appointment. The RLC Corps Instruction (H3.3) is a must read for all those with an aspiration of becoming a RSM in the future, giving the SP and the CoC all the changes in detail.

JSP 757

The newly revised JSP 757 - Appraisal Reporting Instructions - effective 1 June 2024, is a must-read. Part 2, Volume 2 of this document offers comprehensive guidance for Army personnel, especially those in a reporting chain. It’s essential for understanding what your Annual Reports should include, giving you the best shot at succeeding on promotion boards.

Stay connected with Defence Connect

For the latest updates on promotion and appointment boards, as well as upcoming unit visits, make sure to regularly check the CM RLC Soldiers Defence Connect page. It’s your go-to resource for key dates and info.

WE’RE HIRING

Suitably qualified and experienced logisticians needed… Please apply from within.

2023 into 2024 has been an extremely busy and challenging time which has seen 158 Regiment RLC reorganise, restructure and in some cases re-trade to take on the role as The RLC’s Support Regiment to the Aviation Brigade Support Group. The only thing that seems to have remained a constant are the challenges of maintaining the workforce and developing the knowledge, skills, experience, and behaviours (KSEB) required of the workforce to meet the task of supporting regular RLC units and the wider regular army wherever it’s deployed.

Despite considerable churn, the regular RLC units 158 Regt supports have continued to provide opportunities for our people as well as providing equipment and support to enable training. All exposure to regular personnel is a positive in terms of developing reservists as they, in turn, prepare to support the Regular Army. The Regt asks regular units to go one stage further and assist 158 Regt in its recruitment campaign.

Despite regular units’ best efforts to retain their people, it is an

inevitable fact that all of them will come to the end of their regular commitment at some point; either deciding to leave early to pursue other opportunities or coming to a natural end to a full career in the Regular Army. Unfortunately, dozens, if not hundreds of experienced logisticians leave The RLC each year, each taking with them a careers worth of logistic KSEB. We urge regular RLC line managers and career managers to encourage those service leavers who cannot be retained to consider the benefits of joining the Army Reserve. All RLC Army Reserve units have personnel dedicated to the delivery of the mandatory reserve unit familiarisation visit.

But despite this we currently see very few RLC personnel come through our doors and fewer still actually transfer to the Army Reserve on discharge.

Whilst there is a fine balance to be managed in terms of maintaining career progression for our reservists, the benefits of committed ex-regular personnel within the Army Reserve cannot be underestimated in terms of the KSEB they bring and the value they can add in preparing our

soldiers to support your units. For the first 3-years their commitment is reduced in recognition of the KSEB they bring with them and they continue to be able to exploit opportunities to train and deploy on a voluntary basis, access many of the professional and personal development opportunities provided to the regulars, participate in and develop adventurous training qualifications, and participate in sport at unit to army level; all whilst getting paid for a commitment they can fulfil whilst still focusing on establishing themselves in their new civilian careers.

158 Regt RLC has many vacancies for Pte – SSgt for RLC Drivers, Suppliers and Chefs as well as AGC Mil Clerk and AMS CMT Appts in the rank of Pte – Sgt. All vacant appointments are advertised on the ‘Service for Experienced, Re-joiner and Volunteer Engagements’ (SERVE) website and details of the process of transferring to the Army Reserve can be found on Defence Gateway at 158 RLC R2R Opportunities. Alternatively, contact the Regt direct for advice and assistance in processing applications.

The South Atlantic revelation

For a variety of historic reasons, the prospect of being trawled for a six-month tour with British Forces South Atlantic Islands, has been for many, about as appealing as root canal treatment. But significant investment in welfare facilities, the considerable financial benefits, better career management of deployed personnel, combined with a genuine sense of esprit de corps and purpose among those serving there, plus great trade development opportunities – not to mention being surrounded by spectacular wildlife – are making many deployed personnel want to extend or return for a second tour.

By Lt Col D Askey RLC (DCOS) HQ BFSAI and WO1 Okoroafo RLC (FOWO) HQ BFSAI.

The British Army has been a constant presence in the Falkland Islands since the end of the conflict on 14 Jun 1982. The campaign lasted 74 days and claimed the lives of 255 British and 649 Argentine Servicemen, and three Falkland Islanders. Over 700 British Servicemen were wounded. The mission then, as is still today, “Is to deter any military aggression against the South Atlantic Overseas Territories in order to maintain UK Sovereignty”. We must also reassure the islands’ population; this in turn supports the Falkland Islands Government’s vision for social, economic, and political development.

The Falkland Islands are located 8,000 miles from the UK, whilst Ascension is 4,500 miles away. Both experience significant challenges due to their remote

geographical locations. Mount Pleasant Complex has and is still, undergoing considerable change, all set against a complex operational environment. As a Whole Force we are charged with planning, delivering, and sustaining a broad suite of military and logistic capabilities, underpinned by numerous supporting functions.

Wildlife

There is much to do in the local area (weather permitting), to make the most of your time in the Falkland Islands; make sure you utilise your time to get out to see the unique wildlife that call the islands their home. The islands are full of wildlife: vast colonies of Black-browed Albatrosses, five species of penguins, Elephant Seals and much more. They are one of the last “off the beaten track” destinations. The Falkland Islands are home to the following species of penguins: The Gentoo, the Macaroni, the Rockhopper, the Magellanic and the King.

The list of marine mammal species is extensive. Southern Elephant Seal, South American Fur Seal, Southern Sea Lion, Killer Whale, Commerson’s Dolphin, and Peale’s Dolphin are seen frequently. Offshore Baleen whales are seen in increasing numbers.

The Falkland Islands’ small population and isolated location make them ideal for seeing wildlife in an unspoiled state. It’s easy to spot these amazing animals everywhere.

The RLC Family

On the 20 Mar 24 the officers and soldiers based in the Falkland

Islands attended “RLC Day” to celebrate the impending RLC 31 birthday. The day started with a group photo on the airfield and later in the day all attended the bowling at the Gull and Penguin and then moved to the Port Tp recreation area for a BBQ and RLC quiz. The day was designed for all the RLC personnel to attend and understand that the RLC family network is here to support them and their families wherever they are serving.

Benefits of living in Falkland Islands

• LO Allowances – Married Accompanied - £68.02 per day (tax free) paid monthly (£2,069). Personnel deployed here for 6 months get Field Conditions, LSA, free accommodation and food. They get 19GB of free Wi-Fi a month, and a 14-day Rest and Recuperation period.

• Respite Provision - £125.00 per day (Claim up to 6 nights £750.00). Spouses can also claim the same amount. This allowance is used to contribute towards travel and accommodation costs of Service Personnel and their accompanying immediate family permanently assigned to an overseas station IOT achieve overnight respite from their duty station.

• Get You Home Overseas Flight Allowance – Eligible Service Personnel and each eligible member of their immediate family travelling with them are entitled to one return journey from the overseas duty station to the UK leave address for each 12 months overseas (one assignment year). • Helibids (for everyone) and ferry

warrants (for CT) are awarded as one per four months deployed here. • Overseas Private Vehicle Provision – £1025.00. For SP sold a vehicle in the UK within the 12-week window prior to moving to a permanent overseas assignment. The SP then bought a vehicle in the overseas assignment location within 12 weeks of arrival at their new permanent duty station.

Real life experiences

460 Port Tp - LCpl Joseph

On the 11 Mar 24, I boarded a plane headed for the Falkland Islands. It was my first deployment, and I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. My first impression of the camp was even better than I expected. The facilities were top-notch, with a massive mess, a well-equipped gym, and even a huge pool. As a Port Operator, I was eager to join the renowned 460 Port Troop as I was taking over as the SQMS, this was a job I had never done before, so I was both scared and excited. With this opportunity came the chance to develop my skills and stay current with my MHE operation. I also got to work in East Cove Port and on ships developing my trade a class 2 also taking part in line parties, even completing courses on MARPOL and first response in case of oil spillage. But it was not just work that kept me busy, I also had the chance to explore the island, going on battlefield tours and learning about its history. Additionally, seeing the wildlife was incredible - penguins, sea lions, even dolphins and many others - it was like living in a nature documentary. But the real adventure came in the form of helicopter rides to smaller islands, learning about typhoon fighter sets and seeing them in action, and even riding aboard the A400M. If that was not enough, there were opportunities to board research ships such as the Sir David Attenborough and learn all about them. As my deployment continued, I met new people from different trades and regiments, making my experience even more enriching. As my time on the island draws to an end, I cannot help but feel grateful for this wonderful experience. I am looking forward

to all the adventures that await me in the remaining time before I return to the UK.

Cpl Blackman, Ammo Detachment

In January 2024, the Ammunition Sub Depot (ASD) in BFSAI carried out an explosive power demonstration day for local government departments and Service Personnel. The demonstration was expertly delivered by Ammunition Technicians (AT’s) stationed in BFSAI aiming to increase understanding of the dangers of Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) that are still being discovered across the Islands from the conflict in 1982. The team showcased the characteristics of different explosive natures, by demonstrating how low explosives behave under differing conditions, showing each explosive component that is used in demolitions and the significant increase in explosive power between each component from the detonator through to the main charge. This demonstration will undoubtedly have helped to raise awareness of the dangers of UXO reducing the risk of someone being injured in the future. The day was well received by all that attended and gave us a unique opportunity to interact with the Falkland Islands Government, the Royal Falkland Island Police (RFIP), local landowners, and personnel from across all three services, with a lucky few even getting to press the button on the firing device.

Pte Belcher, Postal & Courier Section, S&AMS

I deployed to BFSAI in February 2024. My immediate impression was of the outstanding Mess facilities, which offers a wide range of well-prepared meals. As a keen weightlifter, Longdon Gym is also equipped with everything I need to train and keep myself fighting fit. The Wi-Fi service was a concern prior to deploying, but I’ve found it to be more than adequate for my needs; if I wanted to I’d be able to call home every day! Moreover, it’s been enjoyable meeting my peers from other trade groups, which has allowed me to gain a wide insight into their

respective jobs. I’m also enjoying the opportunity to practice my trade day-to-day. As a Postie, we aren’t often able to hone our trade skills –this tour is enabling me to develop as a tradesman and I’ll be more than prepared for my Class 2 course on return to the UK.

WO1 Okoroafo – FOWO J4 Plans BFSAI

In April 2023 I deployed to BFSAI as the FOWO responsible for the Supply Chain Management and Accounts Assurance of all UIN within BFSAI. As LSS SME, irrespective of trade, I engaged regularly with the RLC team in their various AOR to offer advice and ensure they deliver quality service. With the level of coaching and mentoring evident within the RLC cohort, I have not had to worry because the team has worked with collective responsibility ensuring they represent the Corp positively. Throughout my time in post, I ensured that the deployed RLC personnel never missed out on trade related upgrades when they are due and advised on their MS too. Where there is concern, I report same to the DCOS for advice. In the past RLC personnel who deployed to Falkland Island were being disadvantaged in terms of MS and other career opportunities hence they tend to shy away from any trawl to Falkland Island but all that has changed with the support of the DCOS (Lt Col Askey) who on arrival encouraged a regular interface with all RLC personnel in a relaxed atmosphere so they can outline whatever concerns they are have and where possible he would ensure these concerns are addressed. We have also ensured the team are aware of that Army Central Fund is available for them to use for social and team bonding activities of their choice to boost morale of the deployed personnel. The results of this initiative have been positive, and I have seen personnel volunteer to extend their tours while some go back to unit and volunteer to come out again. The RLC family out here has been awesome, and I would encourage anyone out there trawled to MPC to take it and be assured of adequate duty of care while deployed here in MPC.

During the first week of April, 12 soldiers and officers from 151 Regiment RLC travelled to the Falkland Islands for Ex TRIDENT TUTE – a battlefield study of the 1982 conflict. Participating Service Personnel ranged in rank from Private to Major and were accompanied by an academic tutor from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, who gave insight and history in the key sites of the conflict.

All participants researched and presented on particular sites and timelines of the conflict as they were visited in chronological order. Starting in Stanley with the origins of the invasion, moving to San Carlos and onto Goose Green and then Fitzroy. A few days were spent on and around the defensive battles of Stanley, Mount Harriet, Longdon, Wireless Ridge and Tumbledown.

Approaching key sites on foot, many miles were covered in surprisingly excellent weather and knowledge was shared and gained at key areas. Finishing the battlefield study at the ruins of Moody Brook barracks before having the fortune of meeting the current Governor, Alison Blake CMG, who kindly arranged a tour of the residence and a short history of the battle for Government house.

There was time to see penguins, explore Stanley Museum for more history of the islands themselves and an incredibly lucky ‘right place, right time’ tour of the British Antarctic research ship, the Sir David Attenborough which was berthed at Mare harbour. Pte Gurung said “This is my first abroad trip in my Army career, and I enjoyed the whole trip, apart from the long travels! My father-in-law was a Sergeant who fought in the

Battlefield Study

Op CORPORATE

– By WO1 (SSM) Miller PSAO 151 Regiment RLC

war and his brother still speaks of the war and how he was pushed and saved by my father-in-law to avoid a bomb. This story and connection have made it a more interesting visit.”

Dr Gregory Freemont – Barnes said of the trip: “The group provided good presentations on the battles we studied, and they displayed considerable energy, enthusiasm, and good humour throughout our time down south. I am confident that by having examined so many of the principal sites connected with the Falklands

War, all participants acquired a greater understanding of such key elements of warfare as logistics, leadership, tactics, medical care, the physical demands of soldiering, and more. It was a pleasure to lead the academic side of this endeavour and am grateful for the immense administrative contribution made by WO1 Miller.”

This battlefield study was a once in a lifetime opportunity and an incredible learning and understanding experience that all soldiers benefitted from immensely.

8 On the road between MPC and Stanley

8 The Beach at York Baysite of Argentinian invasion

8 The British Antarctic Research Ship Sir David Attenborough

8 San Carlos cemetery

On 5 Jun 24, soldiers from 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC gathered to honour a momentous event in history. Op ORBITE was name given to the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings on Normandy and the events that paid homage to the brave soldiers who stormed the beaches and parachuted into hostile territory, laying the foundation for Europe’s liberation during World War II.

This occasion not only reminded us of the heroism of those who fought for the liberation of Europe from Nazi occupation, but also served as inspiration for current and future generations of soldiers.

Dropping onto Sannerville DZ, one of the drop zones used during World War II, symbolised the courage and determination exhibited by the airborne troops. In June 1944, thousands of paratroopers descended upon this very ground, facing unimaginable dangers. Their mission was to secure key positions behind enemy lines, paving the way for the main invasion force that would follow landing on the beaches of Normandy. On 5 Jun 24, as the soldiers from 13 AASR parachuted onto this hallowed ground, they did so with deep respect and admiration for those who came before them.

It is hard to fathom the sheer terror and chaos that those soldiers experienced during their descent. As the modern-day parachutists floated down in the middle of the day, the calm and beauty of the landscape stood in stark contrast to the hellish night-time conditions faced by the paratroopers in 1944. Back then, they encountered fierce resistance, heavy gunfire, and the uncertainty of survival.

Remarkably, today’s soldiers

Op ORBITE – Normandy 80

By Pte Arun Limbu and WO2 James Brown

were met by music from military bands, cheering crowds, photographers, and French Customs Officers poised to stamp their passports! The courage and resilience the paratroopers displayed on the night of 5th June 1944, in the face of such adversity, was nothing short of extraordinary.

The month of June holds significant importance in the French calendar, drawing in large crowds from across the globe to celebrate their nation’s Liberation Day. Following their descent onto

Sannerville DZ, the soldiers were taken directly to the Merville Battery Memorial, where British troops and other Allies paid tribute to the fallen soldiers of the day. The event was marked by World War II veterans, serving military personnel, and re-enactment groups dressed in period uniforms, alongside crowds of locals. Witnessing an elderly veteran lay a wreath with tears in his eyes was deeply moving. Participating in commemorative ceremonies, including listening to speeches reflecting on the event’s significance, laying wreaths at the memorial, and attending religious services and musical tributes, was a profound honour for everyone. During this event, the soldiers had the privilege to meet and converse with many veterans and their families. Their legacy will endure through the ages, and their sacrifices will always be remembered and honoured.

The Royal Logistic Corps Association and Forming Corps Associations Membership

If you are keen to enhance your network, join a group of like-minded professionals who share a common purpose, or just catch-up with lost friends and acquaintances, why not join The RLC Association or one of The RLC’s Forming Corps Associations? If interested, please contact the Veterans, Families and Civil Engagement Officer (VFCEO) - Victoria Parkes at: Email - VFCEO@rhqtherlc.org.uk Telephone - 01962 887785 Alternatively, you can download the Membership Registration Form from the RLC website. https://www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk/who-we-are/the-rlc-association/

Defence School of Logistics and Administration

Comdt: Gp Capt Rachel Mawdsley OBE RAF

HQ DSLA

On Wed 26 Jun 24, the Defence School of Logistics and Administration (DSLA) exercised the Freedom of the City of Winchester, granted by the Winchester City Council in 2022. Three marching contingents of Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force personnel were led by Lt Col Fraser Dowling, Commanding Officer Worthy Down Support Unit. The parade stepped off from Peninsula Barracks, marching through the city centre with drums beating, colours flying, and bayonets fixed to halt at Winchester Guildhall where the parade was inspected by the LordLieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson Esq. The parade was addressed by the Mayor of Winchester, Councillor Russell Gordon-Smith, and Commandant DSLA, Gp Capt Rachel Mawdsley OBE.

Weather conditions were challenging as temperatures reached 29˚C. However, the Permanent Staff and Initial Trade Trainees who formed the marching contingents performed superbly in their role representing DSLA and their respective single services.

Following the parade,VIPs, local dignitaries, and the officers, sailors, soldiers, and aviators from the marching contingents were treated to an executive buffet lunch in the Winchester Guildhall. The lunch was prepared by a team of Permanent Staff and Trainees from DSLA’s newly rebranded Catering Training Wing and was an excellent opportunity to highlight the exceptional catering skills taught by the Wing.

Catering Training Wing

CO – Cdr Frances Coles-Hendry RN

The single Services competition season has focused our attention during the last few months, with the Army hosting Ex ARMY SUSTAINER and the Royal Air Force hosting the RAF Culinary Skills Competition. The culinary standard is high, setting the conditions for a competitive JOINT CATERER 2025.

We have said farewell to Lt Cdr Douglas Byron RN who leaves us on promotion to Cdr and has been relieved by Lt Louise Barry RN in a newly created appointment of Executive Officer. We have also said farewell to Sqn Ldr Michael Shaw RAF who has been relieved by Sqn Ldr Gareth Smith RAF; we wish both Cdr Byron and Sqn Ldr Shaw all the best in the future.

RAF Culinary Skills Competition 23-25 Apr 24

130x RAF Caterers, Chefs and support staff assembled at Worthy Down to compete against each other for a “Best in Class” in over 25 different culinary classes. Competitors travelled from all over the UK including as far away as RAF Lossiemouth to compete and represented the full range of experience from very junior to very senior, regular, and reserve.

The main aims of the event are to develop personnel’s culinary skills in a competitive environment in preparation for the Inter-Services competition. As the reigning InterService champions the pressure was on to produce truly outstanding entries and impress a panel of judges to receive either a Bronze, Silver or Gold medal, or a Certificate of Merit in recognition of the standards of dishes presented.

Some great talent was shown, and the aspiration is for an even better event next year and confidence is high in holding on to the Inter-Services trophy!

Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 13-18 May 24

The Army’s annual catering competition organised by 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC in Grantham is open to all members of the Tri- Service Regular and Reserve chef community. It is one of the biggest events in the culinary calendar and brings all the chefs, MOD Industry partners, and international participants (Royal Army of Oman, USA and Lithuania) together.

Our Army instructors are the judges for the improvised cooking category, with Head Judge WO2 Kerry Bale setting the category requirements of producing 20x portions of two meat choices, two vegan/vegetarian as a main course and 20x portions of hot and cold dessert using ration packs and some limited fresh ingredients. Each team are assessed by the instructors and marked against the criteria of menu planning, taste, portion size, food hygiene and safe practices.

Some of our Initial Trade Training Trainees participated in the Fat Carving category with some admirable results. Their instructor, Sgt Mukesh Rai QOGLR, coached the trainees and introduced them to a specialist skill early in their army career. The trainees were particularly proud of their achievements especially when they received the Chef Head of Trade coin from MGL, Maj Gen Chestnutt CBE.

8 Freedom of Winchester Parade

Command Wing

CO - Lt Col Robert Williams RLC

Fd Log 1 under Maj Booth-Millard has been busy running DSLA’s Ex NORMANDY 80 to coincide with the D-Day anniversary and contributing to Force Development through papers discussing tactical adaptations for contemporary land logistics. The young officers on RLC Tp Comd Course 95 completed their training in July as the course continues to evolve in response to the launch of the Land Training System last year. Recent changes included collaborating with their late-RMAS peers training during Ex ASPIRING ENABLER, a study package designed to enhance participants’ understanding of CSS activities across the in-theatre Joint Support Network and the

relationships and dependencies between the functions. Fd Log 2 kicked off the annual International Logistic Officers’ course in July with attendees from Kuwait, Brunei, India and Nigeria amongst others. The whole team is grateful for the extensive support from across the Corps to enable the many visits and briefings received by the students. In Fd Log 3 the first of the twice-yearly Joint Logistic Operations Courses was delivered in early May with 33 students – an increase on recent instances and a sign of the continuing tri-service and international interest in this valuable professional development training. The team then conducted the first RLC Majors’ course of 2024 to both LE and DE participants to ensure a common standard of land domain logistics knowledge as they prepare for the next stages of their careers at SO2 level.

Recently retitled in memory of LCpl Michael Foley AGC (SPS), 85 (Foley) Sqn continues to deliver the Army Leadership and Development Programme to The RLC and all cap badges at LCpl, Cpl and Sgt. The past year has seen extensive work in conjunction with LWC and Army Pers Pol to redesign the SNCO ALDP to ensure course material and the leadership training given to NCOs is relevant, current and optimised. This now sees a much enhanced and more relevant leadership course for SNCOs which is now being rolled out Army-wide. The Sqn also took the opportunity to recharge and reset after back-to-back ALDP courses with a week’s AT out of the Low Gillerthwaite lodge in Cumbria organised by Cpl Cain. The hill walking, mountain biking and rock climbing were just the tonic to build team cohesion, develop resilience and prepare for the next round of courses.

8 Catering Training Wing RAF Culinary Skills Competition

8 85 (Foley) Sqn enjoy the views during a break in the rain on AT in Cumbria

8 Ex ASIRING ENABLER – The RLC, REME and RAMC Tp Comd Courses training together at MOD Worthy Down

Command Wing has also seen a notable turnover in personnel this period with Majs Matt Bowsley, Mark Player and Capts Tom Newman, Andy Rolfe, Stefan Hurst and Ross Pethick amongst those departing to pastures new. We wish them the best of luck in their new appointments and welcome their successors to the team.

Logistics Specialist Training Wing

CO - Wg Cdr Samantha M Smy MA RAF

73 Squadron

In Apr 24, a soldier from 73 Sqn, took part in a half marathon to raise money for the Veterans Foundation. Cpl Hamilton, a keen runner, took on the challenge of his first ever half marathon in Plymouth British Ocean City. As a Plymouthian himself he noted this challenge is locally known to be harder than the London Half Marathon due to the challenging route with a start and finish at Plymouth Hoe.There is no better setting to start this half than outside the World Wars memorial at the Hoe promenade. Cpl Hamilton set up a JustGiving page and through the power of social media managed to raise an impressive £385.00 for the Veterans Foundation.The Veterans Foundation work with hundreds of smaller charities and charitable organisations across England, Scotland,Wales and Northern Ireland to provide a better life for Armed Forces families who are in need. Cpl Hamilton should be extremely proud of himself on completing his first half marathon in remarkable time of 1 hour and 34 minutes and placing 258th out of nearly 3,000 runners. Cpl Hamilton is pictured at the start line and holding his finisher medal.

Defence Movements Training Squadron (DMTS)

The 65in24 challenge for Combat Stress

Three Army SP from DMTS decided to mark the Royal Logistic Corps’ 31st birthday by walking from the

8

Cenotaph in London to the RLC Memorial on Worthy Down Camp in Winchester. The challenge covered a total distance of 65 miles in 24hrs to raise money and awareness for a worthy charity Combat Stress.

A quick photo was taken by a friendly passer-by at the Cenotaph and at 0830 on Thur 7 Apr the trio stepped off. They navigated their way out of central London taking in the sights and bustle of the city out onto the old London Road A30 heading for Basingstoke, then on towards Winchester on the A33.

The team marked the route with seven designated stops at varying distances between 12 and 7 miles where the safety vehicle would meet them and they could replenish water, grab some snacks and conduct foot admin. They also raised a few eyebrows in the early hours sat on camping chairs at service stations or using foam rollers and massage guns in car parks.

The team anticipated a 3mph pace, however they were ahead of time at each stop, gaining valuable minutes. In true military style they maintained this good pace. Contending with heavy rain around 3am, utterly drenched they persevered with aching feet and legs, remaining ahead of schedule the whole way. The DMTS soldiers completed the challenge in 22hrs and 12 minutes and raised a total of £630 for charity.

Defence Petroleum and Specialist Training Squadron (DPSTS)

Rename of the Officers Petroleum Course

As the energy transition, and progress towards Net Zero, continues, so must we continue to refine our training curriculum to ensure that everything that is taught on MOD energy related courses remains contemporarily accurate. Working closely with numerous Training Requirement Authority stakeholders, who formally own and endorse updates to course material, efforts to modernise and refresh course content are now being accelerated. As such, each energy focused course taught by the DPSTS now includes specialist content tailored specifically towards sustainability in energy supply, and how fuels and energy professionals at all levels can help spearhead the Net Zero transition.

As part of this review, it became necessary for purposes of accuracy to formally rename a well-known Ph3 course open to RLC officers, the Officers Petroleum Course. Henceforth, the revised nomenclature for the course is the Defence Operational Energy Course (DOEC), with the name change taking effect immediately.The revised name aligns the course more closely with the overarching Defence Operational Energy Strategy, the capstone energy focused strategy that details the steps the MOD will take looking out to 2040 to meet carbon reduction targets. Available as an open-source document, the DOES is an invaluable tool to learn about the future direction of MOD energy generation and how sustainability targets will be met.

Owned by the Operational Energy Authority, the DOEC remains an eight-month course delivered by DPSTS at Worthy Down.The course kicks off with a ten-week period of study at the Defence Academy, Shrivenham, where students will study Chemistry, Hydraulics, and Petroleum up to foundation degree level, as well as studying in depth a range of sustainability topics such as hydrogen powered vehicles, biofuels, and fuel cell technology. Returning to Worthy Down upon successfully passing academic exams,

8 73 Sqn’s Cpl Hamilton Plymouth Half Marathon

DMTS 65in24 challenge for Combat Stress

students are taught a wealth of tactical and fixed infrastructure fuels and energy expertise, qualifying them to hold a range of specialist fuels and energy posts in Defence spanning through their future careers. Efforts are underway to obtain formal accreditation for the course through the Defence Awarding Organisation, with the aspiration to have accreditation in place for DOEC 02, starting 06 Jan 25. Applications are currently open for DOEC 02 and should be submitted through the Chain of Command. For more information about the course, please contact DPSTS Senior Trainer Flt Lt Craig De jonghe (craig.dejonghe172@mod.gov.uk).’

In May, DPSTS had the honour of welcoming the Chaplain General of His Majesty’s Land Forces - Reverend M D Parker KHC CF. During his visit Padre Parker toured both the Realistic Working Environment (RWE) for the RLC Postal and Courier Service, meeting the PCS Class 2 course, and the All-Arms Basic Tailor course. Padre Parker engaged with the trainees, discussing their personal journeys, their enriching training experiences, and their future aspirations.

Supply Training Wing

CO - Lt Col Nick Homer MBE RLC

Supply Training Wing has been as busy as ever delivering a plethora of G4 training across Defence, whilst managing a raft of personnel changes recently. The RAF Div said farewell to both its Snr Instructor and Wing WO, with Flt Lt Molai deploying on an out of area to Pakistan and WO Stocker setting off into the sunset after completing his full colour service. Quartermasters Div, bid farewell to both WO2’s Mason and Davis, again who both join the ranks of the veteran community and WO2 Cordy who leaves on assignment to the TRiM training team in Aldershot. Finally, the RLC Supply Chain Div, is losing Sgt Kampala and Div WO, WO1 Ablitt on promotion and commissioning. These sad farewells bring plenty of fresh new opportunity as the Wing welcomes a raft of new instructors.

Yeovilton in June, competing for Eastern region. She was selected to compete specifically in the following four events, Discus, Hammer, Shot and Javelin. During these events she recorded a complete clean sweep, obtaining gold in all four disciplines. The Eastern region females won the overall Navy championships with just three participants. There is now a likely chance that PO Hanson will be selected for the Inter-Services Athletics in Exeter on 10 Jul 24.

On the sporting front, a team of three from DSLA took part in RLC & REME Clay Target shooting Championships. Team DSLA - led by the Wing’s Sgt Bijay Hirachan and supported by 85 Sqn’s Cpl Ameer Chamling Rai and Cpl Sundar Gurung, deployed to Bramley shooting ground on 19 Jun. With the competitions primary objective being promoting the sport at the grassroots level - It featured a single day of English Sporting (ESP), comprising 100 targets of varying difficulties across 12 different stands, with individual and unit-level prizes awarded across several levels of ability the team. Even though, all three participants were novices it provided valuable experiences and provided an excellent day out as well as facilitating opportunities for future development. This championship was more than just a sport; it was a valuable training tool that enhanced the skills and discipline for the competitors. By mastering this activity, not only does it improve their shooting accuracy, mental focus and physical fitness, it also enhances professional duties, personal endeavours and more importantly, operational effectiveness.

PO Hanson from the Naval Division participated in the Royal Navy Athletics Championships held at RNAS

After being successfully selected for commissioning, WO1 Sy Ablitt was presented with a departing gift in the form of more course delivery! In February he deployed to Fiji to deliver a manual accounting course to the Quartermasters cohort of the Republic of Fiji Military Force (RFMF). This training was at the request of the UK Defence Advisor in Fiji due to there being no in-depth supported supply training conducted with the RFMF for over 20 years, which has led to some skills and knowledge gaps. Given that the RFMF spends so much of their time assisting with Humanitarian Aid Disaster Relief activities; providing them with up-to-date logistical planning and processing tools as well as some detailed Logistic Estimate should hopefully put them in good stead for future challenges.

On the 20 Jun, a team of Permanent Staff (PS) both military and civilian from DSLA led by Sgt Yeboah Asuamah, visited HMS PRINCE OF WALES, the UK’s flagship naval aircraft carrier. This logistics integration visit offered invaluable insights into the operational logistics and support systems essential for the effective functioning of a modern naval vessel. It also provided an opportunity for the team to build cohesion between departments within DSLA.

The visit focused on understanding the integration of logistics support elements, evaluating the efficiency of supply chain, assessing the overall readiness of the carrier in terms of logistics capabilities. It served as a focal point for Tri-Service and civilian logisticians to appreciate how their diverse roles contribute to the carrier`s efficiency. The HMS PRINCE OF WALES demonstrated a robust logistics system with well-coordinated supply chain management and efficient storage solution and a purposebuilt logistics hub at the Portsmouth dockyard.

Finally, the Royal Marines in the Supply Training Wing received the fantastic news that both CSgt McCaffery and Sgt Lloyd have been selected for promotion to WO2 and CSgt respectively.

8 Centre: Supply Training Wing Team Member at the RLC & REME Clay Target shooting Championships

8 Supply Training Wing visit to HMS PRINCE OF WALES (PWLS)

On the 6 Mar 24, a detachment of 47 Air Despatch Squadron RLC personnel deployed on Op UNDERHILL to support the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. By Cpl Hilhorst, Despatch Crew Commander, 47 AD Sqn.

The deployment to supply humanitarian aid to Gaza marked a significant event; as the UK had not executed Air Drops in an active conflict zone since Op SHADER in 2014. Despite this, the recent operations over Gaza have underscored the enduring relevance of Aerial Delivery and shows 47 AD Sqn has maintained its edge in this critical capability.

The Sqn initially deployed to Cyprus on a fully laden C17. Upon arrival, we awaited orders to deploy into King Abdullah II Air Base (KA2AB) in Jordan. The troops utilised the time in Cyprus to prepare themselves mentally and physically for the mission ahead. JNCOs planned continuation training to refresh skills like Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape (SERE), as well as navigation – all of which were deemed essential as we prepared to fly into one of the most heavily contested air spaces in the world.

Late on 20 Mar 24 the Sqn received orders and deployed to KA2AB on an A400m with aerial delivery stores loaded onboard. On arrival in Jordan, crews immediately began rigging aid for the first supply drop by British Forces into Gaza. The aid, totalling 10 tons, consisted of water, sugar, rice, baby formula and assorted tin foods. Despatch Crew Commanders (DCC) ensured that the quality of rigging, weight, and dimensions adhered to the standards set out by Air

OPERATION UNDERHILL

Publications, mitigating any risks involved while despatching aid to the intended drop zone (DZ). At this stage, squadron personnel were highly motivated to get all the aid rigged in good time, ready for the first drop.

On 26 Mar 24, our crew embarked on a mission to deliver the crucial aid to Gaza. The aircraft was loaded with 12 containers, each weighing approximately 800kg. The team responsible for dispatching the aid comprised of a DCC and three AD crew members. Later that morning, we took off for our first air drop. Understandably, the crew tasked with the air drop into Gaza experienced a range of emotions. The inherent risks associated with air-dropping supplies into a densely populated city, particularly due to the presence of civilians, were significant. In the face of the inherent risks, the crew carried out their duties with unwavering confidence and a clear sense of purpose. They were aware

that the mission’s success would directly translate into lives saved on the ground. Their resolve was fuelled by this profound understanding.

The crew aboard the A400m sat patiently as they flew towards the objective. Final checks were conducted to ensure rigging was correct, and no issues were going to occur. The signal was given, indicating the imminent opening of the aircraft’s rear ramp. As rehearsed hundreds of times before, the crew members assumed their positions, aware that the DZ was only minutes away. The ramp gradually opened, a rush of fresh air and a flood of sunlight filled the aircraft’s fuselage, providing a welcome respite for everyone on board. As they flew along the coastline, the crew caught their first glimpse of Gaza – a sight most people only witness through the lens of news coverage back in the UK. However, there was no time to get lost in the view as the mission at hand snapped them back to reality. The crew moved the loads towards the edge of the ramp, their eyes fixed on the signal light. The anticipation built as they awaited the green light, the cue for the crucial moment of despatch. The

8 Members of 47 AD Squadron rigging Humanitarian Aid that will be dropped into Gaza

8 Despatch Crew dropping supplies into Gaza from the A400M – the replacement aircraft for the Hercules C130J

Images: AS1 Niran Lewis RAF and Cpl Tim Lawrence RAF Crown Copyright

green light flickered on, followed by a decisive hand signal from the DCC, marking the cue to release the supplies. As the cargo cleared the ramp, the crew members turned their gaze, watching as the parachutes unfurled and opened. The operation was executed flawlessly, with the aid landing precisely at the intended location. There were no instances of collateral damage or casualties. However, the absence of UK personnel on the ground posed a challenge for the recovery of parachutes. This meant that each drop would deplete the UK’s parachute stock, potentially impacting future training and operational activities. To address this, we swiftly initiated work to approve the use of a low-cost disposable parachute. This solution not only allowed us to maintain our routine outputs, but also reduced the cost per load by a significant 90%.

In the following days, we found ourselves immersed in a consistent routine. Our primary task was to secure clearance for rigging additional Container Delivery Systems (CDS), a process we promptly initiated once approval was granted. Our home base at RAF Brize Norton continually supplied us with additional aid and air drop equipment (ADE), essential for sustaining the operation. This massive effort was pivotal in ensuring the successful delivery of aid to those desperately in need. With all elements strategically in place, our anticipation grew as we patiently awaited the final A400m’s touchdown to KA2AB. The moment it landed on the runway, the Norwegian Army sprang into action, efficiently assisting us with offloading pallets. Troops then embarked on a meticulous search through the supplies, seeking out vital equipment that was integral to their mission.

It was truly remarkable to witness the unwavering dedication of the team. Their eagerness to rig and sustain the aid operation left a lasting impression. Initially, we were rigging one container every hour. However, with relentless hard work and the accumulation of knowledge from partner nations, that time rapidly decreased. Soon, we were rigging eight containers in just three hours – an impressive testament to

the experience the troops had gained during this deployment. Despite escalating tensions in the Middle East, our determination to continue dropping aid into Gaza remained steadfast, and motivation remained high to continue dropping.

The inaugural deployment of our LCLV drop was not just an operation, it was a monumental achievement for the Sqn. The historic event saw an unprecedented collaboration of ten nations, synchronising their efforts to orchestrate the largest multinational airdrop ever, strategically timed to align with the festivities of Eid. The pressure was palpable, as the dwindling reserves of our SC15 parachutes added a layer of complexity to the mission. The implication of failure was far-

reaching, threatening to affect not only our dedicated team, but more critically, the lives of those on the ground who rely on our support.

As a DCC, this operation was an invaluable learning experience. It provided insight into the workings of a different parachute system and offered a glimpse into how other nations operate their aerial capabilities. On a personal level, this marked my initiation into operational deployment. The wealth of experience I amassed during this time was priceless. It underscored the resilience and adaptability of our team beyond our customary routines, equipping us with the readiness and confidence for future missions. This operation was not just about accomplishing a task, but also about growing as a team and as individuals.

Op UNDERHILL revitalised the importance of the UK’s airdrop capabilities, demonstrating that this method of delivery remains relevant in today’s world. The operation offered valuable experience for the Squadron by fostering collaboration with 12 other nations, enabling the exchange of ideas and equipment, and ensuring the Sqn remains agile for future operations and exercises.

To date, the UK has delivered approximately 110 tonnes of aid by airdrop into Gaza. 47 AD Sqn remains at extremely high readiness to deploy anywhere in the world to support UK Armed Forces, its allies, and any other governmental organisations requesting assistance.

8 Air Despatchers loading supplies onto the ramp of an A400M

8 An aid container parachute deploying over Gaza

8 CDS containers installed onto the A400M ready for Airdrop

Op INTERFLEX has been part of the MOD’s Main Estimate (ME) since Jun 22, rapidly delivering crucial training to Ukrainian Service Personnel (UKR SP) at scale. In March 2024, 2Lt Harrold (162 Regt RLC) had the opportunity to deploy as the Inbound Liaison Officer to the HAP(UK), the logistical hub of Op INTERFLEX.

All UKR SP who are trained through Op INTERFLEX – over 38,000 so far – will spend their first and last nights in the UK at the Handling and Processing Unit, or HAP(UK). When I arrived here, I was told, “In addition to being a logistical operation, this is, in many ways, a humanitarian responsibility.”

At this point, after two years of war, most of the UKR SP who arrive here are newly mobilised Citizen Soldiers. For some, this is a sharp introduction to military life, and they are understandably anxious. Others are already seasoned combatants; some have even lived under Russian occupation.

We work closely with a resident contingent of Ukrainian officers, the Ukrainian Command Support Element (UCSE), who retain command authority over the Ukrainian trainees in the UK. When the UKR SP disembark from their coaches at the HAP(UK) late at night, the UCSE brief them on what to expect over the next 24 hours. They are then processed through G1, checked by our Combat Medical Technicians, issued sleeping systems and wash kits, fed, and assigned bunks.

Beginning with breakfast at 0500

OPERATION INTERFLEX

8 The Op INTERFLEX patch

the next morning, the UKR SP are then individually interviewed by the DOPT (Declared Overt Polling Team). This interview collects useful data on their previous experiences, so that their subsequent training can be better tailored to their level.

The UKR SP are directed straight from here to their kit issue. Each individual is sized for uniforms, PPE, and boots. They then receive a comprehensive set of kit, including everything that a soldier needs for basic training and beyond, almost 200 individual items in total. Most kit is sourced from DE&S and is supplemented by donations from partner nations.

The kit issue is punctuated by the Ukrainian national anthem, which we all pause for at 0900 every morning.

The final stage of the inbound process is managed by the Training Delivery Sub-Units (TDSUs). These are the teams that will deliver the training programmes. A few are drawn from British regiments, but most are from the partner nations.

The TDSU team at the HAP(UK) takes over the UKR SP and checks all their kit. Once complete, the TDSU and their trainees depart to their own training locations across the country.

When their course has finished, those same trainees will return through the HAP(UK). They will undergo a similar overnight process, and board their outbound flight destined for the front line in Ukraine.

Working as the Inbound LO has been a privileged experience. Seeing the faces of the Ukrainian arrivals has personalised and humanised what can seem to be a distant conflict. I particularly recall packing the IFAKs (Individual First Aid Kits), which are issued immediately before the outbound flights, and realising that these will soon be used in combat.

Contributing to an active operation, spearheaded from the UK, has been an invaluable experience. After the training and exercises over the past few years, this has been my first opportunity to have a real, meaningful, operational impact. It has also been a great opportunity to work with tri-Service personnel (almost 50% of whom are fellow Reservists) and with our 12 partner nations. The operational tempo at the HAP(UK) is rapid, with flights arriving and departing seven days a week, but the whole process is systematic and efficient. Liaising with the breadth of departments involved, I have been consistently impressed by their professionalism, dedication, and adaptability.

Since my deployment ended in Apr 24, the HAP(UK) is keen to employ other RLC junior officers as Liaison Officers. For any queries about the role, please contact the incumbent 2IC at the HAP(UK). This opportunity to support the Ukrainian people is one which I would highly recommend to anyone interested.

8 Sleeping area in hangar

8 Sizing area for boots

8 IFAKs ready to issue

8 The complete kit issue

8 Issuing sleeping system to a UKR SP

8 Coaches ready to depart to airport

8 Stock of kit for UKR SP

8 Receipt of stock from DE&S

8 Uniforms ready for fitting

D-Day 80

On 9th June 1944, three days after D-Day, a black Rolls Royce Wraith limousine, registration number FLD 99, crossed a beach into Normandy to be used as a staff car by Field Marshal Montgomery. Eighty years later, on 6th June 2024, this iconic car - one of the most important cars held in any collection in the UK and the pride of the Royal Logistic Corps Museum – was back in Normandy for D-Day 80.

Having been freshly restored by Richard Hammond’s workshop, The Smallest Cog, Monty’s Rolls Royce gleamed in the June sunshine in front of the Winston Churchill Centre at the British Normandy Memorial. Over the course of the event, FLD 99 was enjoyed by those attending the National D-Day 80 Memorial Service, D-Day Veterans, a great number of our own Armed Forces and Cadets and many VVIPs including Their Majesties The King and Queen and Sir Keir Starmer.

Watching the Normandy Veterans gathered around the Rolls sharing their stories and banter with members of today’s Armed Forces, Cadets and school children, 80 years since the car was first in Normandy, was deeply moving.

So how did it come to be that Richard Hammond, of Top Gear and The Grand Tour fame, would not only restore the RLC Museum’s 1939 Rolls

FLD 99 shifts into 'Top Gear' for Normandy return

By Brigadier Mike Caldicott CBE

Royce Wraith - largely at his own expense - but would also help drive it to France for D-Day 80 along with the RLC Museum's Curator, Sam Jolley, regular museum volunteer, Edward Waite-Roberts, and yours truly?

This quite extraordinary story started in August 2022. To drum up publicity for the RLC Museum, we paraded Monty’s Rolls Royce at CarFest. Richard Hammond was there filming for the final episode of series three of his show, ‘Richard Hammond’s Workshop’. Not surprisingly, Monty’s Rolls Royce caught his eye and by the time I’d shown him round the car and told him about its past, its links to the RLC Museum and the Royal Logistic Corps, he was captivated but saddened at the tatty state of the bodywork. When I explained that we were planning to reunite the car with Normandy Veterans in France at D-Day 80, Richard told me he simply had to help and would love to restore the car and tell the story, celebrate the history, and showcase the Royal Logistic Corps through his next series. A great prospect for sure. Richard Hammond was true to his word. He got back in touch, and visited the museum with his chief engineer, Neil Greenhouse, for a good look and a drive. While obviously very keen to take on some restoration they and we were very concerned about the limited time before we needed the car for D-Day 80, the cost (the Museum is a charity) and – without being rude – his workshop’s ability to do a job befitting of such a special 1939 Rolls Royce Wraith. So, after much reassurance, in February 2023, 19 Tk Tptr Sqn RLC took the car to The Smallest Cog workshop for a full assessment. When Simon Walmsley (the RLC Museum Director) Sam and I saw their

8 Richard Hammond and Brig Mike and a very undressed Rolls Royce

8 Sam Jolley, Richard Hamond and Brig Mike at the D-Day 80 National Memorial Service, Normandy. Inset: Brig Mike and Sam Jolley brief the now Prime Minister on Monty’s Rolls. Credit: The Sun, Arthur Edwards

estimate, there was much sucking of teeth! It was way too expensive for our museum. Such was his passion; Richard agreed to limit our costs and pay the difference himself and promised to get the work done on time and to a Rolls Royce standard.

The next three months were nail-biting. Hammond and his team discovered serious corrosion and leaks around the bodywork. This required stripping the whole car back to metal, disassembling it and re-making some of the body. It was a massive job but a blessing they discovered it, or we would likely have lost the car in the coming years. They had to work round the clock to complete the restoration with work continuing right to the wire. And the ‘additional cost’ that Hammond had to meet was significant.

The Smallest Cog did a stunning job, finishing in the nick of time. Richard Hammond delivered it back to the RLC Museum the very next day and was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of permanent staff and trainees from MOD Worthy Down. The next stage was to plan and embark on the D-Day 80 road-trip. The team visited Brigadier Anna Kimber (late RLC) in London, who brilliantly directed and delivered the whole of the D-Day 80 national effort. Brig Anna gave Hammond clear running and riding instructions and superbly incorporated Monty’s Rolls into the memorial plans. So, we were set. In the early hours of 4th June, we met with Hammond, his engineers and production team, and began our pilgrimage to the Normandy beaches for D-Day 80.

A fast run up into the ferry to avoid a ‘hill start’ embarrassment in front of huge crowds saw us join the Veterans on their journey to Normandy. Our sailing was celebrated by RAF flypasts and a salute from the aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales. It was extraordinary and heart-warming – worth every ounce of effort. From Pegasus Bridge to Juno Beach,

Arromanches and Bayeux; wherever we went with Monty’s newly restored Rolls Royce, the car was cheered, applauded, and loved. We got to tell our RLC Museum and Corps story countless times, and the public connected magnificently.

To finish where I started… Veterans, our Soldiers, Cadets, school children and even a few world leaders, were able to enjoy a piece of victorious yet sad history and celebrate and connect with the most profound lessons of our past. Our little part was to present Field Marshal Montgomery’s staff car, looking her very best. The beautifully restored car is befitting of our Corps and its past and is in the RLC Museum to be used and enjoyed. Just, have a care when trying to get in reverse gear!

Points of interest

FLD 99 was built to order in 1939 for Donald Fletcher Scott Henderson, a Scottish jeweller. On the night of 17th April 1941, the car suffered damage from German bomb fragments in London.

This damage was revealed during the restoration. The Ministry of War Transport purchased the car in January 1944. Monty used it from 1944 to 1946 while Commander of 21 Army Group and as Commander of the British Army of the Rhine. He presented it to the Royal Army Service Corps Museum in 1964.

During the restoration Richard Hammond filmed at 17 Port & Maritime Regt RLC to showcase capabilities we have today in the Corps and how they have developed since D-Day.

8 The Rolls Royce was returned to the museum on 9 May and Hammond spots they might have missed a bit!

8 Normandy Veterans and Viscount Henry Montgomery are re-united with Monty’s Rolls Royce at D-Day 80

8 Some last minute ‘high-powered’ cleaning in Normandy

8 Richard Hammond, his crew and the RLC Museum team, pose with Monty’s Rolls Royce on Juno Beach

The Defence School of Transport

With a shrinking workforce, it has become harder and harder to support activities that do not directly relate to Defence School of Transport (DST) training delivery, and we are proud that we have managed to maintain and, in some cases, enhance the value we add to charities and our local community. In writing this Charity and Benevolence themed article for The Sustainer, we have reminded ourselves of just how much activity we’ve managed to support and are rightly proud.We have also reflected upon how grateful we are to those charities that have also supported DST and our families.

Over the past year, our combined charitable initiatives have raised an impressive £11,750.40.We have sold poppies, walked, played golf and football, and run and cycled countless miles.To replenish our energy levels, some have baked and sold cakes and cookies, with all proceeds going to charity. As a result, organisations such as SSAFA, the Royal British Legion, Hull for Heroes and cancer charities have benefited from the generosity of DST's compassionate workforce. We have also been able to support charities with the incredible facilities at DST, and outline four groups who’ve benefited from use of the DST site: 1. SSAFA – DST is privileged to host SSAFA’s regional HQ office within the welfare HUB, and the Officers’ Mess to host regional meetings.

Commandant: Colonel Laura Craig-Braddock

COS: Lt Col Damion Moxon

GSM: WO1 M Hickey

8

This arrangement has fostered a close working relationship, ensuring quick, efficient, and effective responses to cases referred to the charity. The unit’s welfare team assists SSAFA in delivering the annual Big Brew event, a popular fundraising initiative on site, which raised over £1,000 last year and is expected to exceed that amount this year with the inclusion of D-Day commemorative mugs.

2. Military Assistance Support Hub (MASH) – The Military Assistance Support Hub has partnered with DST to deliver charitable support to its community. The Welfare HUB, Ladysmith House, is utilised on the last Saturday of every month, providing a safe social space where individuals can feel secure and

8 Visiting children learning about military vehicles and their functions

access confidential, signposted support. MASH also offers a range of inclusive and engaging activities, fostering a sense of community, and belonging.

3. Covenant Delivery Group – DST has a close and collaborative relationship with the East Riding of Yorkshire Local Authority and its Covenant Delivery Group, and the school has been delighted to be able to support the group with use of its resources on site. One of the group's primary goals is to support service personnel, veterans, and their families. This mission has led to significant financial investments aligned to DST, including resource support and funding for experts to conduct classes in the allotment area and art classes which have fostered community engagement and personal development, enhancing the overall wellbeing of our people. We were also delighted to host the first Covenant Delivery Group meeting at DST in July in the Officers’ Mess.

4. Leconfield Primary School – In celebration of the 'Month of the Military Child', Flt Sgt Wiles arranged a special visit to DST for students from Leconfield Primary School. During the visit, children aged between 3-9 years had the opportunity to get up close to military vehicles, learn about their functions, and interact with the physical development team. In

8 DST’s welfare team assists SSAFA with its annual Big Brew event

Flt Sgt Wiles with students from Leconfield Primary School at DST

return, DST was invited to visit the school, where SP provided pupils with an insight into military life –including drill.

DST is extremely privileged to have sixteen members of the workforce who are not only dedicated civil servants, but they also dedicate their time to serving the country in Cadets and Reserve Units, both locally and nationally.Their commitment to both their roles is truly commendable, and we are proud to work alongside such incredible individuals.

Internally, the DST Welfare team has been busy trying to maximise resources and whilst welfare isn’t a business, the team has needed to think innovatively to create a system that generates cash for our welfare needs. Starting with initial private external support, the team invested in several resources, including theme park tickets, a Rug Doctor, a power washer, Eden Camp War Museum tickets, disco lights, and a cinema screen. These items are hired at a nominal fee, with all funds returning to the welfare fund to support further welfare activities and services. This initiative has revitalised the charitable fund and provided the team with the autonomy to financially support welfare needs. The DST welfare team has also been the administrative focal point for delivering the RLC Holiday Respite Scheme, funded by the RLC One Day’s Pay Scheme. This initiative provides holidays to families at Parkdean holiday resorts across the UK, allowing families in need of respite to enjoy a holiday at no cost. Once a holiday is arranged, DST’s welfare team provides guidance and administrative support to the family, alleviating any burdens and allowing

them to focus on enjoying their break.

As a school, DST has also benefited from the altruism of others. DST has an Independent Advisory Panel team, made up of five volunteers who regularly give up their time to visit the site and provide us with feedback on our training. As a result, duty of care is far richer for their valuable input, and we thank them for their time and engagement.

The families of DST personnel have benefited from £11,250 of funding from the Army Central Fund and ABF, The Soldiers’ Charity to fund a range of activities. Co-ordinated by our community development worker, children aged 8+ will be able to access recreational activities, which include a ‘play in a week drama session’, and sporting activities over nine days this summer. There will also be 24 young people accessing a fully funded adventurous activity week and we are most grateful for this support to our families.

In addition, families of DST and the

8 16 of DST’s civil servants also serve in the Cadets and Reserves

wider military community have also benefited from a locally aligned charity, CATZERO, which reached out to DST with an offer to support some of our families. The welfare team identified appropriate families, and CATZERO, which is based in Hull, sought financial backing to deliver tailored support packages. They secured £25,000 of funding from various stakeholders, including the National Lottery. This funding has enabled CATZERO to work with families, providing bespoke packages that address each family's unique needs and aspirations. These interactions have had a profoundly positive impact on the families, the service person, and consequently, the overall operational capability of the Unit. The welfare team and CATZERO is in discussions for future collaborative projects to continue supporting our community. There is scientific evidence that altruism is beneficial to mental health and wellbeing. DST has thoroughly enjoyed giving something back to others where we can and is incredibly thankful to those that have given to DST. Going forward, we are fortunate that the local High Sherriff, Col (Retd) Chris Henson’s theme for this year is volunteering and we are looking forward to working with him to do the very best for our people and the community, while maintaining the operational outputs of the Unit.

8 Local cancer charities are among the beneficiaries of DST’s charitable activities

In May, 17 soldiers from across The RLC gathered at the Army Inshore Sail Training Centre. All were complete beginners, having never previously attempted windsurfing. With a forecast of sunshine, good tides and a calm wind that would steadily build throughout the week, conditions could barely have been better for a beginner course. The aim of this package was to introduce RLC soldiers and officers to the sport, and to furnish them with the RYA Start Windsurfing qualification on completion. Once achieved, all participants would be eligible to compete in Army and Inter-Service competitions and be welcomed into the RLC team.

With a late start to the course on day one, everyone was keen to get moving. Following a quick briefing on the fundamentals, the group took to the water at the onset of an unexpected sea breeze to make the most of the first afternoon. From the beach, it was carnage but smiles all round. The group was quick to help one another and reducing to one board between two, meant that the team quickly bonded over what proved to be an exhausting but totally enjoyable introduction to the sport.

The progression of every participant from this point on was exponential. With day two providing the perfect conditions for a period of land-based coaching, the team consolidated their skills on the water and by the end of the course were all easily demonstrating the key learning to achieve qualification. A Thursday evening BBQ allowed the team to relax following four days of hard graft with new friendships made and shoulders aching. A great

RLC Windsurfing

RLC Windsurfing Week, 20-24 May 24

week all-round, leaving many hoping to compete or attend the windsurfing development course.

Ex EXTREME SURF RHODES 24, 8-15 Jun 24

On 8 Jun 24, two RLC officers deployed as part of a group of 12 army windsurfers to Rhodes, Greece, on the biennial Overseas Training Camp. Maj Jordan Kemp and Capt Bill Seymour, both longstanding participants in the sport, joined a group of mixed abilities ranging from those who had only completed one-week of windsurfing to those who had been on the water from childhood.

On arrival in Rhodes, it was clear that the venue and forecast were perfect for a week of coached development. The hotel, which was situated next to the water served as the accommodation attached to Procenter Rhodos – a windsurfing

hire shop with a wide range of high-quality boards and sails, as well as experienced staff that kitted us all out with the right equipment for every ability and forecast. The group was coached by Jon Metcalfe, the Army Sailing Association watersports training lead, who boasts a lifetime of coaching experience. Day one saw light winds in the morning, and as the land heated up, the thermal uplift created a sea breeze that would build well into the afternoon before disappearing at around 1900. This pattern became the norm for the week and meant that we soon got used to a routine which saw each day start with video coaching on the previous day’s activity before a combined light wind intermediate session. The afternoons then opened the stage for planing conditions, faster sailing, smaller kit and some small waves to jump, turning the sea into a giant skate park.

While the group only sailed at one location, the Mediterranean Sea boasted plenty of marine life with most members of the group witnessing flying fish and large sea turtles. A minor earthquake on one of the nights - quite unfamiliar to most members of the groupreminded us all that the Greek Islands reside in an area prone to tectonic activity.

8 End of day two, everyone feeling tired

8 Team blasting in at Rhodes

The addictiveness of the sport often meant that we all lost track of time on the water, finding that hours would pass in a flash. This in turn meant that our bodies felt the wear and tear with everyone brandishing finger tape by halfway through the trip and plenty of minor scrapes from the regular wipe-outs. Recovery was aided by the amazing local food that was enjoyed on a nightly basis – gyros being the primary source of calories which we enjoyed while brandishing multiple bruises on our exposed limbs, fin cuts and broken toes.

Ex EXTREME SURF RHODES was a superb package, planned and led by Lt Col Andy Gladen. Retention positive and physically demanding; the venue, equipment and coaching proved pivotal as ingredients for a training package suitable for every ability. All participants headed home elated, with conversation dominated by plans for the next training camp.

Army Novice Championships15-18 Jul 24

Seven competitors from five cap badges arrived at Thorney Island to compete in this year’s Army Novice Championships. This event was aimed squarely at those who have completed the RYA Start Windsurfing qualification but were yet to attain intermediate status. The intent was two days of training followed by two days of racing but with forecasts showing that the wind would become lighter through the week, the team moved to racing status after just one day.

With three of the sailors newly qualified following their completion of the RLC Windsurfing Week in May, our corps had almost half the field. Although the odds were good, other competitors had the edge when it came to experience and time on the water, with two of them (RE and RMP) having recently honed their skills in Rhodes where 1-to-1 coaching had ensured they were able to hold their own in challenging conditions. While supportive of one

another throughout, all competitors had sized each other up during the training day and understood where their main opposition would be. Taking advantage of the howling conditions, the team sailed a total of 12 races over three separate courses. It’s fair to say that this tested the mettle of all competitors, and they finished the day bearing the blisters and bruises of a fierce competition. True to expectations, the rest of the competition presented very little wind; the results from day two setting the podium positions. The RLC grasped a great result with one of the competitors coming second overall – a commendable and impressive accolade given the RLC team’s relative inexperience. While the individual winner was held by the RMP, The RLC surely won by representation. The team looks forward to the main Army Championships on 2-5 Sep 24.

8 Prizegiving

8 RYA Start Windsurfing? Completed it mate!

8 Sailing upwind for the mark

This year, four RLC team riders were selected to represent the Army at the Services Team Showjumping competition at the Royal Windsor Horse Show as part of a total of 15 riders across five different Army teams. This is a great chance to showcase equestrian talent in front of an international audience, and our riders and supporters had a great experience soaking up the atmosphere at one of the premier events of the military competition calendar.

• Maj Hannah Hewins (RCAM CoS)

– Army Team Montgomery

•Maj Rose Lambert (ARRC) –Army Team Wavell

•2Lt Brian Leung (151 Regt RLC) –Army Team Wavell

•Cpl Chris Davidson (4 SCOTS) –Army Team Templar

Military equestrian fixtures update

So far, the RLC Equestrian team has taken part in three inter-services events this year; the RAF Championships, the UKAF Dressage Championships, and the Army Championships Royal Tournament. The team has had horse-rider combinations represent The RLC at most competition levels and is currently sitting in fourth place (122 points) in the Army Equitation Inter-corps league. The team won the title in 2023 so must continue to gain the results and climb up the leaderboard for a win again this year. Next up will be the Royal Navy Championships in Aug 24.

Other news

Congratulations to 2Lt Brian Leung (151 Regt RLC) who has been selected from the Army Development Team to join the Senior Team (Eventing) after a year and half on the development team. We sadly bid farewell to Cpl Gillian Gallagher (103 Regt RA) who has recently retired from the Army Reserves after 15 years of service. Cpl Gallagher initially joined the Gunners and rebadged to The RLC as a chef in 2020. She joined the Army Equitation Association in 2015 and has been on the Army Dressage Team since 2019 so the RLC team was very pleased to see her join and now is sad to see her leave. Happy retirement Cpl Gallagher!

RLC Equestrian

The Royal Windsor Horse Show 2024

8 The RLC riders at Royal Windsor Horse Show

8 Maj G Mawbey at the UKAF Dressage

8 WO1 B Wright at the RAF Champs

The first ever RLC Fly Fishing Competition was held at Grafham Water in Huntingdon over the period of 27-31 May 24. This organised sporting event marked a significant moment in the history of The RLC, as it brought the Corps’ game anglers together for the first time. The competition was a four-day event aimed at providing a unique opportunity for newcomers to develop skills and gain experience while enjoying outdoor sports. Participants had the chance to learn various skills both in a classroom setting and out on the water.

The first day began with instructing the novice anglers on casting the fly line and familiarising them with the boat mechanism. Emphasis was placed on ensuring comfort and proficiency in handling the boat, as well as accurately casting the fly line. Furthermore, participants were instructed in the various techniques for tying flies commonly used in fly fishing.

The second and third days were dedicated to practice for all novice anglers, with a focus on developing skills related to fly line pulling techniques on the water and successfully catching fish. Area reconnaissance was also conducted in preparation for the final day of competition. On competition day, all anglers were paired up and sent out on the water. Excitement was high among the participants, many of whom were able to catch fish during the event.

This competition presented a distinctive combination of camaraderie, competitive spirit, educational opportunities, and

RLC Fly Fishing Championship 2024

By Cpl Yadap Rai 25 Regt RLC (QOGLR)

exploration for anglers at varying skill levels. It afforded participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, forge enduring memories, and partake in the revered tradition of fly fishing. The event was attended by Brig P S Reehal MBE - President of the

RLC Angling (Game) and Lt Col Toby, the chairperson of the Army Fishing Committee.

A sincere appreciation is extended to Captain Bikram Thapa QOGLR, Chairperson of RLC Angling (Game), Staff Sergeant Vishan Gurung, Secretary of RLC Angling (Game), and all members of the committee for their exceptional efforts in orchestrating a highly successful event.

Winners

8 Top Rod - Cpl Yadap Rai, 25 Regt RLC (QOGLR)

8 Heaviest Bag (4 fish) - Pte Cameron, 6 Regt RLC

8 Top Novice - SSgt Samir Malla, SJC(UK) (QOGLR)

8 Best Boat Pair - SSgt Samir Malla, SJC(UK) and SSgt Shaktihang Begha, 158 Regt RLC

8 Cpl Rai won Top Rod

8 The RLC’s game anglers

8 The novice anglers were instructed on boat drills

8 Brig Reehal MBE presented the prizes

In preparation for the forthcoming season, between 12-17 May 24, the RLC Tennis team conducted a memorable training camp in the picturesque La Manga, Spain. By Lt Eliot Smith RLC Stores Troop, 4REME.

The aim of the camp was to blend rigorous athletic preparation with enriching cultural experiences. The camp, attended by ten passionate team members, provided an unparalleled opportunity for them to hone their skills on Spain's famed clay courts.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean coast, the training sessions were intense and focused. The players

RLC Tennis

¿Alguien para el tenis?

engaged in a mixture of drills and match play, testing their agility and strategy on the distinctive clay surface. This environment was particularly beneficial, as clay courts demand a higher level of endurance and precision, sharpening the team's competitive edge for the upcoming season. Additionally, the team also had the opportunity to try Padel; a rapidly growing sport in Spain

that combines elements of tennis and squash.

Beyond the courts, the team immersed themselves in the local culture with a visit to nearby town Los Belones, which was celebrating San Isidro - a festival honouring the patron saint of farmers. The vibrant festivities included traditional music, dance, and a parade.

The blend of rigorous training and rich cultural experiences made the RLC Tennis team's trip to La Manga an unforgettable adventure. The skills and memories gained during this camp promise to inspire and propel the team to new heights in its forthcoming competitions.

8 The RLC Tennis team

8 La Manga’s Racquets Club was the perfect venue

8 Playing on Spain’s clay courts really sharpened up the players

Benevolence and charity are two of the key values which 17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC holds dear. By Capt Neil Scott. 17 Port and Maritime Regiment’s soldiers have been involved in a multitude of different fund-raising events throughout the year, as well as a plethora of community engagement pieces. A recent event run for our Commonwealth Day saw the Regiment running laps of camp through the night to raise not only money for a good cause but also raise awareness and share stories of other cultures within our teams. On the community side, 17 Port and Maritime is heavily involved within the local area. We have soldiers who regularly referee local football and rugby fixtures, manage sports teams, and are involved in local youth groups such as the scouts in Marchwood. Because most of our soldiers stay at Marchwood when they promote, it is impossible to walk through the village without seeing 17 represented. Our welfare team, led by Capt Neil Scott, regularly puts on events for families in the area and does things to benefit the local community. This includes maintenance of woodland around the local primary school to ensure the safety and welfare of the children who attend it.

One of 17’s latest ventures is the monthly ‘Breakfast Club’ event. Organised by the welfare team on camp, we regularly have over 100 veterans turning up to chat, eat and to share stories of their time in the Armed Forces, both from Marchwood and from other regiments around the Army. This

Benevolence and Charity

event has been a huge success and proved to be very popular among the veteran community. We often have charities present at the events which gives those in attendance the opportunity to seek support or to learn more about what they as veterans are entitled to. Stories shared between young and old about how ‘we never got this much time off’ or the fact that the MEXEflote has seldom changed since many of our veterans operated them in the Falklands campaign. This provides a valuable experience for all involved and the chance for us as a regiment to give back to those who gave so much for us.

On the first iteration of the ‘Breakfast Club’ we had people

traveling for up to five hours to be there. This again demonstrates the connection which 17 has with our soldiers current and past. Off the back of the Breakfast Club, so far, we have seen large amounts of support provided to our veteran community. Two people have been helped to find new homes and countless veterans have sought assistance from the charities who come along. 17 P&M Regt is very fortunate to be so closely associated with its wider community.

If you are interested in coming to one of the veterans’ breakfasts then keep an eye on 17 Port and Maritime’s social media, across all platforms, for information about dates and timings.

RLC Sports Awards 2024

On Thursday 31 July 2024 the Royal Logistic Corps Sports Awards returned to the home of the Corps; the event having been kindly hosted by Bicester Garrison and 27 Regiment RLC, in Aldershot in the years following the closure of Deepcut in early 2020.

The awards took place in the Officers’ Mess at Worthy Down in the presence of the MGL and over 200 members of the Corps as well as the Corps’ sport sponsors and invited guests.

Superbly organised by the RLC Association Secretariat Sports Awards team led by Richard Stockman and Jo Askey, it was a truly excellent evening that celebrated the wealth of talent, team spirit and personal dedication that makes The RLC the military sporting giant it is. The RLC Media and Comms team excelled once again delivering the superb audiovisual backdrop to the awards ceremony, which was produced and directed by Army Photographer Cpl Nathan Tanuku. Without the support of our sponsors, RLC sport wouldn’t enjoy the success it does, and we would like to publicly thank them for their support.

Our sponsors: Army Sport, KBR Fastrax Logistics, Briggs Defence, Pearson TQ, Motif8, Agility Defence and Government Services, Squarcle Consulting, Peli Products, MACE, J &

8 Sportsman of the Year –LCpl Keston James (Athletics) 27 Regt RLC

And the 2024 winners are…

8 Sports Official of the Year –Maj Lloyd Diprose (Alpine Skiing) 6 Regt RLC

8 Sports Coach of the YearWO2 Ben Woolley (Nordic Skiing) 17 Regt RLC

8 Sports Team of the YearThe RLC Cricket Club

8 Young Sportswoman of the Year – Pte Martha Allen (Nordic Skiing, Brazilian Ju-jitsu, Swimming, Hockey, Athletics, Netball) 17 Regt RLC

8 Sportswoman of the Year – Sgt Charlotte Preece (Athletics, Clay Target Shooting) 7 Regt RLC

8 Young Sportsman of the YearPte Owen James (Football) 1 Regt RLC

8 Sporting Ethos – Maj Georgie Mawbey (Equestrian) DSLA

8 Outstanding Achievement Award – Capt Kev Sheppard (Athletics, Cross Country, Road Running, Cycling, Duathlon & Indoor Rowing) PAGC

8 Lifetime Achievement Award –Maj Dave Matthews (Cricket) 25 Regt RLC

8 The Hemming Belt – Pte Lewis Harvey (Boxing) 27 Regt RLC

8 Pioneer Spirit Award - 1 Regiment RLC

8 RLC Sports Personality of the Year - LCpl Keston James (Athletics) 27 Regt RLC

Three winners were not at the awards, so are not pictured.

K Financial Solutions, Edwin Doran Sports Tours, Silver Lady.

Photography by: Cpl N Tanuku and Cpl B McKenzie

The RLC Foundation continues to go from strength to strength, developing an ever-expanding network of links to the commercial and academic logistic communities. The Foundation's core aim is: To promote professional development in the Corps through engagement with industry and academia. This remains at the heart of all that we do.

DHL Service Leavers Insight Day

RLC Foundation member DHL Supply Chain hosted a Services Leavers’ insight day in Rugby on Friday 19 Apr 24 with over 40 Service personnel attended from all three Services. The aim was to give attendees an on the ground visit of a site whilst outlining many of the roles available within this huge global company. Attendees also got the opportunity fully understand DHLs Mission Statement, what they stand for, their culture, work ethic alongside DHLs binding principles under the Armed Forces Covenant and the Employer Recognition Scheme.

The day was opened by Mr Tim Bolam - Vice President Project Delivery - alongside Sarah Wilmot - DHL’s Military Recruitment Manager and Army Veteran leadand her team. Service leavers were able to speak to DHL employees many of whom are Veterans through a series of workshops on careers across a range of employment including project delivery, transport, robotics and operations and diversity. Also on display was an alternative gaspowered haulage truck along with the opportunity to walk the site. The day was closed by Mike Bristow, MD for Manufacturing Logistics. A very successful and outstanding day for all concerned.

The RLC Foundation

Navy Command visit

On 15 May 24 Navy Command hosted the RLC Foundation at HMS Excellent, Whale Island and HMS Nelson (Portsmouth Naval Base, Portsmouth Dockyard). Delegates were treated to a series of excellent presentations on Naval Operations, Maritime Logistics, Navy Land Operations, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, a dockyard tour and a superb lunch in the prestigious HMS Nelson Wardroom.

The RLC Foundation is extremely grateful to Col John McCrann, DACOS Land Logistics, Force Generation Directorate and his team who made our visit a memorable experience.

Ex LOG SAFARI

On 22 Jul 24 RLC Foundation corporate members visited the RLC Museum and attended Ex LOG SAFARI at Worthy Down Camp. Simon Walmsley, the Director of the Museum gave a fascinating insight into the history of The RLC, its Forming Corps and their predecessors whilst explaining the history of many of the artefacts on display.

The Ex LOG SAFARI trade stands

displayed niche military capabilities of many of the RLC trades, which were supported by briefings of how they operate both in the UK and on operations abroad. The demonstrations were laid on by Chefs from 10 QOGLR, Drivers, Suppliers and Communications Specialists from 4 Regt, Air Despatchers from 47 AD Sqn. Capability briefs were provided by 13 AASR, 11 EOD&S Regt and the Postal and Courier and Movement Controllers from 29 Regt. It was also an opportunity for the RLC Foundation members to meet with Officer Cadets who are undergoing their leadership training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. The day would not have been complete without the usual outstanding curry lunch provided by the Chefs from QOGLR.

RLC Foundation awards citations

The date for submitting RLC Foundation award citations has been extended until 30 Aug. This is a unique opportunity to recognise the excellent work that is being done by officers and soldiers across the Corps. Further information can be found on the RHQ RLC Monthly DOWNREP or from the RLC Foundation Director, Lt Col (Retd) Alan Woods. Email: rlcfwoods@gmail.com

On 31 May 24 the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Nigel Atkison Esq, opened the new museum extension, called the DUKW House, or “Duck House”. Built to display “Crispy Duck” an amphibious vehicle which was used 80 years ago during the D-Day Landings. Operated by the Royal Army Service Corps, a predecessor of The RLC, these vehicles were built in the USA by the General Motors Corporation and played a crucial role in the early stages of the landings.

Eleven DUKW Companies, each with 100 vehicles took part, ferrying supplies from ship to shore and then on land forward to the various supply dumps. Their work only reduced once the Mulberry Harbour was built, allowing ships to be unloaded in deep water. They were capable of 50mph on land and 5.5knots on water. They were the first vehicle that allowed the driver to adjust the tyre inflation pressures from the cab.

By Major (Retd) Simon Walmsley Director, The Royal Logistic Corps Museum

The DUKW finally went out of service in 1974, having been replaced by the reputedly less capable six-wheel drive Stalwart. However, a small number of

DUKWs were retained by the Royal Marines to assist as admin vehicles during beach landing exercises. Crispy Duck was fortunate to be one of these and she was given a brand new diesel engine and gearbox as well as a back to metal refurbishment.

The RLC Museum is one of only a handful of museums to have a Mulberry Harbour kite anchor on display. Recently raised from the sea and after having spent nearly 80 years underwater, this anchor was conserved in specialist desalination tanks at the Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth.

Churchill stated that the challenge of safely anchoring the floating Mulberry Harbour to the seabed had to be overcome. These ingenious anchors allowed the Mulberry Harbour to rise and fall with the tide, but not swing left and right with the offshore current, permitting the continuous offload from ships.

The stories of all the Predecessor Corps of The RLC and their vast contribution to the D-Day landings are told in this new extension, supported by an ingenious touch screen, which allows the visitor to explore the inside of the DUKW in detail.

8 One of the surviving Mulberry Harbour kite anchors on display

8 ‘Crispy Duck’ resplendent in her new house

8 The Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Nigel Atkison Esq

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE: THE RLC MUSEUM

RATIONS FOR TWO

‘Rations for Two’, is a new exhibition exploring the changing face of maternity in the military, opening at the RLC Museum in Worthy Down, Winchester, in September.

“This is such an important, and previously untold, story,” says Miss Sam Jolley, Collections Manager for the Museum. “Prior to 1990, pregnant servicewomen wishing to have their child had to leave the forces, and many women made difficult choices between parenthood and their profession.”

Between 1978 and 1990, some 5,700 women left the three services because they were pregnant.

Included in the exhibition is the story of Corporal Natasha Day who on falling pregnant, in 2019, was told that she was not eligible for married quarters with her partner and when querying this, received prejudice for conceiving whilst unmarried. Natasha went on to found the Defence Breastfeeding Network to support serving mothers, for which she received an MBE in 2023.

“We need employers that are proactive and view mothers as an asset and not a hindrance and I am proud to say that the Armed Forces is a great champion,” says Natasha, now parent to a four-yearold and still employed in the British Army as a medic.

Following the introduction of maternity leave for servicewomen, the Army has developed its maternity, shared parental and adoption leave polices, and redesigned its maternity wear several times.

“The British Army introduced maternity policy before

fully considering maternity wear to suit the changing shape of pregnant soldiers,” says Sam. “Rations for Two illustrates the story of maternity in the military through the development of maternity uniform, with examples on display from the 1990s to the present day.”

The Museum, at Worthy Down, is open from 9.30am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday, and entrance is free.

Defence Breastfeeding Network celebrating its second birthday on steps at Sandhurst

2 (CS) Squadron

1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

BICESTER

CO: Lt Col L Butler MBE • Adjt: Capt E Bevan • RSM: WO1 S Filmer

So far 2 (CS) Sqn’s deployment on Op CABRIT 14 has been challenging and enjoyable. The Theatre Support Squadron (TSS)with 1RLC elms comprising SHQ, F&GT Tp and Stores Tp - deployed in full on Ex SPRING STORM in support of 5 RIFLES BG. The Sqn ensured the efficient movement of an armoured BG to the exercise assembly area over a 48-hour period, moving 250 military vehicles. Throughout the exercise phase, 1RLC SP provided 2nd line logistics support. F&GT Tp colocated with its Estonian counterparts in the 1st Estonian Bde CSS Bn, which was a chance to explore how the TSS might operate in a warfighting scenario.

“WARDEV” has been an enduring theme within SHQ. Planning continues at all levels on how to ‘operationalise’ the TSS in the event of crisis on NATO’s Eastern border. Meanwhile, daily life keeps the troops busy, ensuring that the RLS needs of the BG are met in full. All Jerboas can be proud of their efforts so far.

12 (CS) Squadron

12 (CS) Sqn has been deployed on Op INTERLINK since 18 Feb 24. The Sqn, augmented by critical enablers, has been supporting the Ukrainian war effort by enabling the onward movement of military aid, and providing passenger handling for PAX bound to and from INTERFLEX. Spread across three countries, 12 (CS) Sqn has maintained operational effect while navigating through significant changes, including a relocation of the LEN(P) HQ and accommodation, and significant adjustments to the higher HQ construct.

Back in the UK, 12 (CS) Sqn personnel within the ROG continue to play an important role, deploying on critical Defence commitments such as Op LAZURITE, and supporting major exercises such as Ex WYVERN TOUR. Despite its depleted numbers, the ROG

still claimed victory at the CO’s Shield Cricket.

23 (GS) Squadron

23 (GS) Sqn continues to be engaged in busy operational commitments, with Stores Tp reaching the halfway mark on its 6-month tour as part of the Op CABRIT 14 TSS. The Troop has its own exercises to look forward to including an LFTT package, GPMG ranges and urban training. Alongside the Operational and SET tasks, the Sqn has continued to maintain a high tempo on camp. SP from across the Sqn have taken part in multiple exercises to ensure that they are ready for warfighting operations if needed. These exercises include Ex ADLER FIST, which saw Sqn SP become qualified UAS drone pilots, Ex

8 1RLC Ex WAGON CHALLENGE team claim victory

FLEDGLING PHOENIX, which was a BLRV Tp TL-A on Barton Stacey and finally Ex RISING PHOENIX, acting as a Sqn consolidation exercise, conducting Driver trade skills on SPTA. Seizing a valuable training opportunity, this also acted as PDT for the elements deploying on Op CABRIT 15.

74 (HQ) Squadron

74 (HQ) Sqn has continued to provide sub-unit support. In the UK, this has included supporting deployments from TL-A to C for both routine training and PDT for overseas operations. The Sqn surged additional Communications Specialists to support the TSS and 5RIFLES BG on Ex SPRING STORM.

The Sqn has prepared for several upcoming assurance visits, all with the aim to move into the second half of 2024 prepared for a large TL-D exercise in the UK. The RAO Det has also played host to its counterparts from across 20ABCT, laying on a day of sport and food to foster wider cohesion within the BCT. Members from the Sqn also led with the coordination of the Regt’l Cultural Day. The Sqn also took the lead on the Regt’s team for Ex WAGON CHALLENGE and achieved first place.

8 Members of the Regt participate in 23 (GS) Sqn led LFTT exercise

4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON

CO: Lt Col M Brown • Adjt: Capt C Nottage • RSM: WO1 A Smith

4 Regiment RLC’s summer 2024 article features two capstone, concurrent deployments for the Regt as part of Op LINOTYPER. These represented the culmination of an intensive period of force preparation as the Regt built up to deploying a significant slice of its total strength into two demanding Field Training Exercises (FTX) in support of NATO. Having reconstituted in Jun 24 the Regt celebrated its success with a Regimental Soldiers and Families Day and now switches attention to returning to readiness for the Forward Land Forces (FLF) commitment as well as deployments on Ops INTERLINK and CABRIT.

Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE

On 12 Apr 24 a large contingent from 4 Regt, representing every Sqn, deployed on Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE as part of the Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER series. The unit projected to NATO Forward Holding Base Sennelager to conduct RSOI before moving further east and conducting a 717mile road march to Ladowisko Czaplinek Broczyno Airfield to establish and operate a BSA in support of 12 ABCT.

The pinnacle of the exercise was the execution of a Bde-level Wide Wet Gap Crossing (WWGX). 4 CS Sqn detached two Immediate Replenishment Groups (IRG), with each one bolstering their respective BG A1 echelons. Each IRG deployed for 36 hours of tactically demanding activity in a challenging environment which culminated in the Bde level crossing – a highly complex deliberate operation.

Overall, the Regt deployed 201 soldiers and 134 vehicles for seven weeks having force projected over a significant proportion of continental Europe. The Regt successfully sustained two armoured infantry BGs and other units in the ABCT, suppling 1,277 tonnes of materiel, 198,000L of bulk water, and 616,000L of diesel.

Collectively, it drove a total of nearly 150,000km. It was a hugely rewarding deployment which provided all ranks invaluable experience of operating at a scale against a level of complexity which has not been seen for many years.

Ex COMBINED RESOLVE

In May 24, 60 CS Sqn and elements of 33 GS Sqn, deployed to Germany for a concurrent exercise under the Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER umbrella. 60 CS Sqn and its attachments integrated into the 626 Brigade Support Battalion (626 BSB), part of the US Army's 3/101 Airborne BCT. Before the FTX, the Sqn completed interoperability training with its US counterparts: sharing and comparing TTPs, SOPs and vehicle capabilities. The integration activity period proved insightful and valuable, enabling the Regt to understand 626 BSB’s platform capabilities and the training level of US partners.

The FTX phase saw the establishment of a multi-node BSA concept to support the KRH BG and 3/101 BCT dependencies.

While exercising, 60 CS Sqn, was able to complete joint coalition logistic patrols to UK and US callsigns, further deepening its understanding of how each other operate. The combined challenge of: unfamiliar and difficult terrain (Hohenfels Training Area), constant thunderstorms, interoperability complexity and Scheme D Drivers Hours created a novel and engaging training environment that provided a true test to our officers and soldiers.

8 Wide Wet Gap Crossing, Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE

8 Orders, Ex COMBINED RESOLVE

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

DISHFORTH

CO:

Lt Col J Lockett • Adjt: Capt O Pearman • RSM: WO2 D McQuillan

6 Regiment RLC returned from Easter leave with a focus on ensuring readiness for the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (Land) which the Regt was aligned to before switching to the Allied Reaction Force. April and May saw preparation for the Regimental deployment on Ex WESSEX STORM in June.

Since returning from 64 CS Sqn’s deployment to Poland as part of Op LINOTYPER, April gave chance for the Sqn to reset and ensure the vehicle fleet was maintained. 64 and 62 Sqns both deployed on separate CT(A) exercises to develop soldiers’ basic infantry skills and junior leadership ability. CT(B) exercises gave a chance for all squadrons to test out new camouflage and concealment methods prior to validation on Ex WESSEX STORM.

The Regt continued its engagement with Cultural Workshops aimed at improving the teamwork culture. After completing the first session in February, the second session involved 30 SP of all ranks being trained to deliver sessions to the entire Regt on how to improve the culture within the Armed Forces. This allowed all participants to engage with others with ranging opinions on difficult topics such as racism and sexism.

A team from 6 Regt entered the 1 Division Shooting Competition in April, where it performed strongly and gained qualification to the

Army Shooting Competition at Bisley. Prior to the competition, the team got to grips with the shoots and comfortable on the A3 rifle and General Service Pistol. The Regimental team was made up of personnel with a mixture of experience, and Cpl Walters achieved the highest individual score on the Section Advance to

Contact Shoot. Qualification to the Army OSC was testament to the hard work and dedication displayed by all members of the team.

6 Regt continues to excel on the sporting front. In boxing, Pte Naylor represented the Corps in the Army Open Boxing Championships, narrowly losing on points in the male welterweight final. Cpl Keane has been selected to coach for GB Boxing at the Paris Olympics.

A team from 64 CS Sqn represented the Regt at the Waggoners Challenge. This saw a team of 10 compete in a varied set of challenges against other RLC units including a gun run, tug of war and driving a GS Wagon. The team placed fourth overall and had strong performances throughout including Pte Stevens winning the Driving Long Rein and Showing in Hand challenges, showing off her impressive equestrian skills.

Lt Farnsworth, 64 CS Sqn, took part in the RLC Cycling Association Ex North Coast 500, an arduous cycle around the north coast of Scotland battling against wind, rain and hail. The football team took part in the Army Sixes tournament at Grantham putting in a strong performance. A young side with lots of fresh faces that is showing promise for the upcoming season.

8 A team from 64 CS Sqn, led by Cpl Lee, took on the Wagoners’ Challenge

8 Lt Farnsworth was part of the RLC team tackling the gruelling NC500

8 Pte Naylor representing the RLC at the Army Open Boxing Championships

7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

ABINGDON

CO: Lt Col JC Corbett MBE • Adjt: Capt B Wray • RSM: WO2 L Bowers

Over the past six months, and indeed the next few years, the overarching theme for 7 Regiment RLC is ‘readiness’. Starting in Jan 24 with sub-unit rotations through the UK Standby Battalion switching to the entire Regt at readiness for NATO’s Allied Reaction Force (ARF), from 1 Jul 24. 7 Regt’s road to readiness was conducted through two key activities: Quartermaster Liquid Logistics Exercise (QLLEX) and Ex WESSEX STORM.

In June, 17 F&GT Sqn deployed to the USA as the UK lead to QLLEX. This exercise bills itself as the largest logistics exercise in the world, with six battalions (UK & US combined) delivering more than 2.5million gallons of fuel to 17 Department of Defence sites, involving over 430 tanker missions spanning an eight-day delivery window. There were two key aims. Firstly, to validated 7 Regt’s Divisional Bulk Fuel capability within the 3rd to 1st line supply chain. Secondly, to test and develop the interoperability of the UK’s Primary Bulk Fuel Installation (PBFI), the US Fuel Supply Storage Point (FSSP - US PBFI) and the connection between a PBFI and the US Bulk Fuel Vehicles (BFCV). This connection between US and UK fuel assets, particularly PBFI and a US FSSP/BFCV, has never been done, and was a monumental step in further integrating with NATO and other Allied partners. Additionally, QLLEX allowed 17

Sqn to add to its skillset by training to refuel from railhead, a skill not exercised often, yet essential to functioning in the contemporary operating environment. QLLEX has been a great success allowing the UK and more specifically, 1 (UK) Div, more flexibility in planning and increased prepared capability for future operations.

Concurrently, throughout June and July, those that were not in the US were deployed onto Ex WESSEX STORM 24 (Ex WS). The focus of this exercise was threefold. Firstly, The 3rd line delivery of stocks to a real-life customer. Secondly, validation of RHQ prior to assuming readiness for the ARF. And finally, an opportunity for the headquarters and its sub-units to experiment new ways of operating.

Ex WS provided a unique opportunity to 7 Regt to exercise within 1 (UK) Div as part of the Land Training System, exercising the full Divisional Supply Chain: 3rd to 1st

line, with a real-life dependency. The exercise was conducted across the UK, from seven different dispersed locations. This gave the Regt the opportunity to train and develop the collective DC32, primarily through a use of dummy sites and dispersed locations.

Whilst deployed, 9 F&GT Sqn was tasked with conducting concept development focussing on ‘Doubling Lethality’. Amongst other training opportunities the main CONDEV came through utilising King trailers and the use of two 40ft white fleet trucks. Whilst the use of the King trailer isn’t a new concept, they are rarely trained on and were great for the junior drivers to gain confidence in something that is a bit of a lost art. The 40ft white fleet truck, however, added another dimension to the training package.

Both QLLEX and Ex WS were very successful in ensuring that 7 Regt is ready to take on the Logistic Supply Group for the ARF and can deploy, at short notice, into Europe. The Regt is particularly looking forward to hosting past and present serving 7 Regt members on 10 Oct 24 at Maximillian Kolbe Day in Dalton Barracks. The day will celebrate everything 7 Regt with shows, demonstration stands and finally, a parade. The day will culminate with a dinner night at which we are honoured to be hosting a range of special guests. Bialo Czerwoni.

8 17 Fuel and GT Sqn in the US post QLLEX

8 The juxtaposition of white fleet being loaded by an FLRT on Ex WS

9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

HULLAVINGTON

CO: Lt Col S Lavery • Adjt: Capt C Bevan • RSM: WO1 D Ravenscroft

9 Regiment RLC has conducted AT and excelled across the sporting spectrum despite another busy period of operations, exercises, and community engagement.

21 GT Sqn

21 GT Sqn has continued to be heavily committed to a variety of taskings. The SHQ and two Troops have been deployed on Op LINOTYPER, providing vital support to a multitude of exercises across the European JOA. An excellent opportunity for drivers to develop their trade skills, 21 Sqn soldiers have covered over 500,000km within a 6-month period. An incredible effort from all involved!

The 21 Sqn ROG has trained and deployed a troop of soldiers on HAP(UK) in South Cerney to provide the RSOI of Ukrainian soldiers entering the UK for training.

66 F&GT Sqn

The SSET and wider support to operational tasks has been full on. However, with some new additions, this has allowed 66 Sqn to make a broad impact. Soldiers from the Sqn were privileged to provide a guard of honour at the funeral of a local D-Day veteran who passed away shortly after the 80-year anniversary. Others have helped the community through volunteering to clean up the local riverbanks.

The primary focus has been improving the Sqn’s battle rhythm. “Friday wars” now provide soldiers the opportunity to refine and practice both their soldiering and trade skills in a safe environment. A new classroom enables JNCOs to

deliver better training, more frequently. As the Sqn reintegrates post Op LINOTYPER, it is set for training to not only deliver a high level of readiness, but much greater operational effectiveness.

84 MS Sqn

The Sqn has been providing operational support across the globe in an LSS and MSS capacity. Troops have supporting Ukraine through Op SCORPIUS and Op ALUMINIUM, with the current focus on delivering a large commitment to HAPUK. The Sqn also continues to support Op LINOTYPER, CLR, DMS Lichfield, BATUK, London District and DCLPA. Despite these commitments, the Sqn has still found time to develop its green skills, conducting urban operations training in Caerwent.

Outside of trade responsibilities, soldiers have been busy with sport and AT. The Sqn excelled on the Cateran Yomp 100km challenge receiving several gold medals and won the HQ SW volleyball tournament. The Sqn also ran a military religious pilgrimage to Lourdes.

90 HQ Sqn

90 Sqn has provided SP to support Op ALUMINIUM, Op KIPION, Op AGORA, Op LINOTYPER, HAP(UK) and BATUK. Op LINOTYPER saw 19 Communications Specialists and Chefs deploy to support C2 elements from 9RLC, the Battle Group HQ formed from 9 TS Bn REME and fed nearly 700 SP three times a day.

The Sqn headed up Ex PANTHERS ROCK, an AT exped which saw 15 SP from around the Regt deploy to Cyprus to conduct rock climbing. The Sqn also took a main role in the Bunting Cup, seeing our WOs and SNCOs impressively getting through to the semi-finals against teams from across The RLC.

94 Sqn QOGLR

Maj Liz Polson took over command on 10 Jun 24 and was immediately greeted with a traditional Nepalese ‘Messing’ curry – a very warm but fiery welcome to the Sqn! With much of the Sqn deployed on Op LINOTYPER, the pace of life has been high. Those deployed supported the sustainment of both 7LMBCT and then 12ABCT whilst on Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER, in loading a total of 3,642 pallets over the 6-month deployment.

At home, the Sqn has seen a great deal of sporting success. 94 Sqn helped the Unit win the 104 TSB Festival of Sport, earned a Gold Distinction on the Cateran Yomp 24 and won both the hockey and basketball events at the CoR Khukuri Challenge Cup 24.

8 84 Sqn during urban training in Caerwent

8 Members of 9 Regt in Lourdes

Op ORBITE

10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment

ALDERSHOT

COMMANDER: Lt Col O Nyman • Adjt: Capt S Smith • RSM: WO1 T Limbu

With troops recovered from Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER, Op ORBITE soon became the next main effort for 10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment. 28 F&GT Sqn established a forward mounting base at Longmoor, providing support to Defence’s contributions to the D-Day 80 commemorative events. Over 500 service personnel transited through the base at Longmoor. Viewing the televised national commemorative event proved to be an extremely proud moment for the real-life support team. Witnessing such a successful end-product more than justified the previous weeks’ hard work. Most importantly, 28 F&GT Sqn was honoured to play a role in the commemoration of the soldiers, sailors and aviators involved in the invasion 80 years ago.

The 66th Regimental Birthday and Kasam Khane Parade

On 29 Jun 24, 10 QOGLR celebrated its 66th birthday. The event and following festivities were attended by friends and family from across the cap badge. This year’s parade was rather unique in that it also marked the reformation of 31 F&GT Sqn as well as the Kasam Khane ceremony. The parade also recognised several achievements. These included three newly commissioned late entry officers (Capt Chakra Rai, Capt Volaman Limbu and Capt Lok Sunuwar), the Wallace-Dutton Trophy (Pte Mohan Gurung), the Gurkha Soldier of the Great War Trophy (Cpl Amir Chamling), the Slim Trophy (Sgt Netra Rana), three QOGLR Gold Medals (Dr Alicia Tracey, SSgt Pankaj Gurung and SSgt (Retd) Basant Gurung) and the KCVS awarded to Sgt Navin Rai last year. After the parade, guests were entertained throughout the afternoon, with the highlights being the martial arts display and Khukuri dance. The famous tug-of-war competition

did not fail to deliver and the final saw 28 Sqn and 15 Sqn go head-to-head, with 28 Sqn emerging victorious. Recognising sporting success in the weeks prior, 1 Sqn was brought on stage to be awarded the Commanders’ Sword.

Ex AGADI BADHDAI

Alongside colleagues from 27 Regt RLC and the Army’s Experimentation and Trials Group, 1 Sqn tested drones, 4G cameras, solar panels, satellite bearers and artificial intelligence during a field exercise on Bramley training area in June. The exercise scenario provided a threat from organised crime, rather than conventional fires, requiring soldiers to secure and monitor

stocks. Active monitoring enabled a quick reaction force to then locate, track and respond to threats. Suppliers also tested satellite communications and sustainable power solutions. Starlink and Satcube bearers were used to provide connectivity for the Field Storage Packs (FSPs), rather than increasingly vulnerable 3G or 4G networks. Batteries and solar panels kept the FSPs running in addition to providing off-grid power to the Sqn and Tp HQs - an exciting alternative to the cumbersome and noisy diesel generators. The exercise provided a rare opportunity for RLC and QOGLR soldiers to think outside the box and solve problems using exciting new technologies. Furthermore, it permitted the supply squadrons of both 10 QOGLR and 27 Regt to work alongside one another and learn best practice from their combined experience. As the contemporary operating environment continues to demand rapid and often significant adaptations, the lessons learned, and procurement recommendations formed, from Ex AGADI BADHDAI are hoped to help shape future logistic TTPs and exercises.

8 Brig C Hanson CBE inspects troops during the Kasam Khane parade on 29 Jun 24

8 RLC and QOGLR soldiers get to grips with the TAK Camera System, provided by the Army’s Experimentation and Trials Group following years of research and testing

11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Regiment RLC

DIDCOT

CO: Lt Col R Swan • Adjt: Capt R C Oxborough-Clarke • RSM: WO1 W Ball

11 EOD & Search Regiment RLC

continues to provide vital MACA EOD support to the Emergency Services across the UK on a daily basis through Op TAPESTRY. This enduring commitment has seen 170 personnel held at very high readiness to carry out over 513 Conventional Munitions Disposals and 88 Improvised Explosive Device Disposal taskings in Q2 to date.

The Regt also continues to provide bespoke ammunition technical support to wider Army units on operations at home and abroad. Within Q2, the Regt has deployed 31 service personnel to 14 countries, providing AT support to 23 overseas activities, these include major exercises and Ops APOLLON, AREDELIA, ELGIN. This is in addition to the 13 SP deployed on enduring operations across the globe such as Op ALUMINUM, CABRIT, INTERLINK, SHADER and INTORT. Within the UK, 58 SP have provided AT support to 35 UK-based activities, including GMAT, safe-tomove inspections, logistic disposals, assisting with weapon trails and producing field-storage licenses.

The 321 Challenge

On the 22 May 24, 321 EOD&S Sqn, based at Aldergrove Flying station, Northern Ireland, hosted the aptly named ‘The 321 Challenge’; to support the Felix Fund - a charity with close links to 11 EOD&S Regt RLC. Organised by LCpl Stanbridge, Spr Haynes, and Spr Bunyard, the aim of the event was to raise money for the Felix Fund, a charity that provides support and assistance for the EOD and Search community, providing welfare support and financial assistance to serving soldiers, veterans, and their dependents.

The 321 Challenge consisted of two stations, designed to push participants physically and mentally, and to encourage team cohesion as participants had to work together to complete the challenge. Teams were made up of

twelve enthusiastic volunteers who had to complete both stations of the timed challenge, with the overall winner finishing in the quickest overall time. The theme throughout was always 3-2-1.

The 321 Challenge stations totalled 963 reps and a 600m vehicle push broken down as follows:

• Push a Civilian Armoured Vehicle (CAV) for 300 metres.

• As a team reach a collective total of 321 reps of:

o Tyre Flips

o Press Ups

o Burpees

o Box Jumps

• Push CAV for 200 metres.

• Repeat 321 Reps.

• Push CAV for 100 metres.

• Repeat 321 Reps.

The atmosphere and team spirit was electric and each team, driven by grit and determination, successfully completed the challenge. The challenge demonstrated their brilliant teamwork, resilience, and dedication in supporting the charity.

The

winners

Each team put in a brilliant display of team cohesion to compete the challenge with 321 setting the fastest time. The Reconnaissance Intelligence and Geographic Centre – Northern Ireland came second, with Aldergrove Air Wing third, and Northern Ireland Officer Cadets finishing fourth. Each member of the fastest team was additionally presented a Felix Fund poker chip by OC 321 Sqn.

The success of the challenge

Through the combined efforts of four competing teams and the incredible support and effort from friends, family and community members who generously donated, a grand total of £1,431 was raised. The event ICs would like to express their sincere gratitude to the four teams who participated in ‘The 321 Challenge’ and to all the generous donors. The funds raised will help ensure that serving personnel, veterans and their families receive the support they need from this life saving charity.

8 AAW completing the burpees

8 ‘FELIX’ – The identity of 321 EOD&S Sqn and adopted by the wider EOD community

13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC

COLCHESTER

CO: Lt Col P Chapman • Adjt: Capt K Smith • RSM: WO1 D Bunn

Exercise SWIFT RESPONSE 24

Between Apr – Jun 24, 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC played a pivotal role in Ex SWIFT RESPONSE 24; a multinational NATO exercise under the Op LINOTYPER banner which saw UK, US and Polish forces exercise with the Estonian Defence Force. Tasked with moving personnel, vehicles, and equipment from the UK through France, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and on to Estonia; 13 AASR demonstrated exceptional capability and adaptability across various domains coordinating air, rail, road, and sea transport.

The exercise included a complex Joint Forcible Entry, combining the PARA and aviation insertion of the 3 PARA BG alongside an American and Polish infantry company. With the Regt involved throughout, this exercise was the first time the Arrivals and Departures Airfield Control Group could be exercised, coordinating 17 waves of Rapid Air Land and Follow on Air Land as 16 Air Assault BCT built up forces at Kiltsi Airfield. 24 (HQ) Squadron established and managed the Brigade Support Area on the airfield, and for the first time in over a decade the Bde exercised having other stakeholders within this area and not just the CSS Group HQ, allowing the BSG HQ to exercise more realistically.

82 Air Assault Support Squadron are typically aligned to the 3 PARA BG and were the lead task Sqn

being tested on the exercise. The Sqn was tested throughout the exercise, including the deployment and redeployment phases. At the start of the deployment, it led the Rail Task Group responsible for moving over 200 vehicles from Calais, through Lithuania and on to Estonia, and upon completion of the exercise it was responsible for the Port Task Group in Tallinn coordinating the redeployment of the 16 AABCT vehicle fleet. During the exercise phase, the full spectrum of Air Assault Support was tested. The Helicopter Under Slung Load experts enabled the movement of the Bde’s vital vehicles, equipment and materiel, including: Pinzgauers, RWIMIKs, quad bikes with trailers and Air Portable Fuel Containers, Light Forces Pumping Systems and

Power Packs via CH47’s. Drop Zone Clearance Teams were responsible for clearing the drop zone on Saaremaa Island after 47 Air Despatch Squadron dropped CSUPs CDS for immediate resupply to the battlegroup.

Alongside the exercising troops, 15 Air Assault Support Squadron (QOGLR) provided essential support to the Regt and wider Bde. As some of the first troops to deploy, they were tasked with running a Convoy Support Centre in Skulte, Latvia to provide logistic and equipment support to all of the vehicle packets transiting from the UK across Europe. Once in Estonia members of the Sqn backfilled essential roles across the Regt for the exercise phase, with the remainder working along 23 Parachute Engineer Regiment as Real-Life Support.

Operational Shooting competitions

The Regimental Shooting Team has had another excellent showing in the 2024 Operational Shooting season. After its recent Corps second place against teams from RLC, REME, RE and AGC, the team went on to place fifth in the Army Operational Shooting Competition at Bisley. Sgt Arshu claimed Army Top Shot on the Advance to Contact Lane, and seven of the eight strong team earned the prestigious Army 100 placing.

Sporting successes

The Regimental Athletics Team was Midlands Major Unit Champions. Regimental Boxing Team members competed in the RLC’s and won both the Male and Female categories. Pte Rai was awarded best boxer of the night. 13AASR also fielded boxers at the Army Finals in Aldershot. LCpl Mooney, 63 Sqn was crowned Army Lightweight Champion, winning by unanimous decision. Pte Couley, 82 Sqn was crowned Army Featherweight champion, winning by unanimous decision.

8 LCpl Mooney was crowned Army Lightweight Champion

8 24 (HQ) Sqn managed the BSA on Kiltsi Airfield

17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTHAMPTON

CO: Lt Col TD Wilcox • Adjt: Capt E Jordan • RSM: WO1 S Chambers

Over the past five months, 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC has continued to provide Defence with the unique and versatile Port and Maritime capabilities. During a busy period consisting of Op LINOTYPER, a handover of duties between the two task Sqns, and numerous operational commitments across the globe; the whole Regt has shown incredible output, a testament to the commitment of its service personnel.

51 Task Sqn

51 Task Sqn was integral in the completion of Op LINOTYPER, deploying various PTGs throughout Germany, Poland, and Estonia. Following this, 51 Sqn took over TEG readiness from 52 Sqn, with a large effort to achieve the highest deployability possible. This has led to it taking responsibility for all Europe based taskings, including a PTG to Gibraltar from 12 to 17 Jun.

51 Sqn led the organisation of the Regt’s contribution to D-Day celebrations, marching through Southampton and completing a remembrance service for those who fought. On 22 Jun 24 LCpl Cavuilati sang the Fijian National Anthem at Twickenham for the Fiji vs Barbarians match.

52 Task Sqn

52 Task Sqn began the period with the establishment of Enabling Group East in Poland. Including a Port Task Group to Estonia, the operation enabled 7 LMBCT to deploy into Europe, conduct exercises, then recover back to the UK without issue. Following this, 52 Sqn conducted a handover of TEG readiness with 51 Sqn and assumed home Sqn duties within the Sea Mounting Centre. At incredibly short notice, a team deployed to Cyprus and provided Port Operating capabilities to support UK’s contribution to humanitarian aid in the Gaza strip. Boarding RFA Cardigan Bay, they conducted planning beach operations alongside the US JLOT

pier, before eventually returning to Cyprus to load humanitarian aid onto the ships ferrying supplies into the Gaza strip. In addition to all of this, 52 Sqn has taken over support to the Navy, sailing to Norway and to Singapore in support of HQ Commando Forces.

53 Enabling & HQ Sqn

53 Enabling & HQ Sqn has seen a busy period with the continuation of Op LINOTYPER, and numerous UK based deployments. Through the entirety of Op LINOTYPER, the PMCC has been constantly working to track the movement of all stores from 7 LMBCT, 12 ABCT and 16 AABCT through the SMC, an immense task for all those involved. Operational Hygiene Troop has been supporting several UK based exercises, most recently Ex WESSEX STORM. Comms Troop has deployed in support of 52 Sqn on their trade and ITR exercise Ex MERLION STORM.

17 RLC Wksp

REME Wksp personnel have been aligned to a wide range of commitments. The Wksp has deployed soldiers alongside several Regt’l commitments with soldiers supporting the PTG on Op LINOTPYER as part of Enabling Group (East), attached to Littoral Response Groups North and South, and fulfilling our commitment to the British Army Training Unit Kenya. Upon returning from Easter Stand

8 51 Sqn organised the Regt’s contribution to Southampton’s D-Day celebrations

Down the Wksp conducted an ITR exercise on the Isle of Wight, ensuring the workforce remains current for marksmanship, fieldcraft, and other practical ITRs and enhancing the Junior Soldiers’ competency as ‘Soldiers first’.

Extramural

The Regt’l rugby team won the Army Shield on the 27 Mar 24 beating the Rifles in a tough match 34 – 29, to finish third overall across the Army. The Wakeboarding team won the RLC Wakeboarding open event competition, with numerous members of the team being selected to represent The RLC at the Army championships. The Welfare Team has continued to provide support for our veteran community, monthly veteran’s breakfast to encourage previous members of the regiment to stay engaged with the Regt’l family.

8

The SMC has handled the deployment and recovery of three BCTs in the last few months

25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

LECONFIELD

CO: Lt Col B Ekman • Adjt: Capt S Adamson • RSM: WO1 T Jones

Over the last few months 25 Regiment RLC has seen the steady flow of trainees passing their driving qualifications as well as participating in events organised by their section commanders. Arriving at the Corps Festival of Sport, 18 trainees, along with four section commanders, competed against other members of The RLC in many sports. Placing first as a team and an individual victory in the cross-country run, the Regt displayed good fitness and positive teamworking throughout the event.

June saw the second Defence Perinatal Festival being held. The event was organised by Cpl Lucy Blair and hosted in Aldershot. The festival, owned by the Defence Women’s Network, saw Cpl Blair (pregnancy, maternity and new parent lead) work in collaboration with the Women’s Health Specialist Interest Group as well as the Active Pregnancy Foundation to inform and support service women and civil servants in wellbeing and physical fitness. With 90 participants taking part in demonstrations and speeches, the event has doubled in size in year two and awareness of the Defence Women’s Network has increased massively, thanks to the efforts of Cpl Blair.

There was more sporting success in June, as Cpl Yadap Rai led the 25 Regt RLC Volleyball team to success in the RLC Inter Unit Volleyball Championship 2024. Taking trainees to Aldershot Garrison Sports Centre, Cpl Yadap Rai introduced the sport to them allowing them to represent the Regt. The team did extremely

well, placing first place in the male teams’ event in the Minor Units competition, as well as runners up with the Mixed Team.

July saw the Regt take part in Beverley Armed Forces Day 2024, where permanent staff and trainees displayed the vehicle platforms they use whilst at DST. Members of the public were encouraged to climb into the vehicles and were given short briefs on what they are used for, as well as other information

about life in the military. The Defence School of Transport/25 Regt RLC have a close relationship with the local population of Beverley, as driver training takes place on the roads of East Riding of Yorkshire, requiring DST to maintain a good rapport with the town. Training continues throughout the summer for 25 Regt, with no official stand-down timings. This means that permanent staff and trainees are required to work through the hot weather, as it is important for trainees to complete their training as soon as possible. This allows them to arrive to their Field Army units quickly, where they can deploy on operations and exercises around the world, progressing well into the start of their careers using the knowledge gained at 25 Regiment RLC.

8 Members of the 25 Regt RLC Festival of Sport team

8 The Defence Perinatal Festival

8 Beverley Armed Forces Day

27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

ALDERSHOT

CO: Lt Col E Bowman • Adjt: Capt R Limbu • RSM: WO1 R Rourke

In this edition of The Sustainer, two young officers from 27 Regiment RLC provide updates and perspectives from Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER (Op LINOTYPER).

8 Fuel & General Transport Squadron – By 2Lt Lloyd Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER (Op LINOTYPER) has resulted in significant training benefits for the deployed troops in 8 F&GT Sqn. We have seen immense development in our soldiers, both regarding their trade skills and their all-around soldiering. They have built and maintained the Primary Bulk Fuel Installation, conducted technical fuel testing, and provided real-life support to operational forces in Poland and further into the Baltic States while working closely with our NATO allies to further our operational capability.

The Squadron has been committed to supporting the overall exercise while exercising troops have been transitioning through. In addition, the deployed troops also had the privilege of showcasing our knowledge and expertise to several members of the British Parliament and high-ranking military personnel. We were able to demonstrate the capabilities of the Joint Operating Fuel Systems, talk about the limitations of the Primary Bulk Fuel Installation in the modern battlespace and how future concepts could address these limitations. We displayed the technical side of fuel analysis and as part of Ex LONG LOOK, we had an Australian counterpart talk about the differences between Australian and British military fuel installation systems.

Overall, the deployment so far has given our troops fantastic operational experience and a greater depth of understanding of the logistical chain. All while providing much-needed support to troops on the ground and giving those in charge some appreciation of all things fuels related.

7 F&GT Sqn as part of 27 Regiment RLC deployed on Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER (Op LINOTYPER) on 10 Apr 24. The Squadron was split between two Divisional Support Areas: DSA1 in the Northeast of Germany and DSA2 in Bavaria.

At DSA1, the deployed troops have delivered support to more than 1,500 troops and 750 vehicles moving through Europe to deploy on the exercise, providing a muchneeded rest point at the Convoy Support Centre (CSC). We have also operated the Primary Bulk Fuel Installation that saw us dealing with the largest amount of incoming and outgoing fuel on a NATO exercise to date, and we

have also been responsible for sustaining the deployed forces through regular convoy moves which have proved to be an essential cog in the logistics network. The dedication and hard work of 7 F&GT Sqn troops in this location has enabled the wider formation to sustain troops deployed to Estonia through daily moves of essential consumables and equipment.

At DSA2 in Bavaria, the Sqn focused on future optimisation training before switching fire to supporting the exercising troops of the Kings Royal Hussars. Future optimisation took the form of quad bike courses and the drone operator course; enhancing our soldiers’ capabilities by reducing their signature while operating, giving power back to the troops to organically provide their security and modernising regimental capabilities.

This invaluable training exercise during deployment has given the Squadron an unrivalled and historic opportunity to become experienced operators in theatre-level logistical operations, whilst simultaneously providing and enhancing future optimisation within 27 Regiment RLC as Divisional Logistic Regiment. Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER has led the way for the wider Royal Logistic Corps on how we will operate in a modern war setting.

7 Fuel & General Transport Squadron – By 2Lt Kirmond

8 Members of 7 F&GT Sqn complete the drone operator’s training course

8 Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER provided training on operating in a modern warefare setting

29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

SOUTH

CERNEY

CO: Lt Col E Sedgwick • Adjt: Capt Z Marsden • RSM: WO1 C Corderoy

Alongside a busy last quarter full of deployments, 29 Regiment RLC has found time for an array of fundraising and charity focused events in the local area close to camp and further afield.

In early May, whilst deployed on Op LINOTYPER, six personnel took part in the Copenhagen Marathon to support the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF). Despite only a week of fundraising, the team impressively managed to raise over £1,200. The decision to enter the marathon was made at short notice, leaving the team with limited time to prepare for the challenging 42kilometre distance. Nonetheless, all six members successfully crossed the finish line, showcasing remarkable resilience and commitment to their cause.

The marathon route provided a picturesque tour of Copenhagen’s most iconic sights. The course meandered through the inner city, passing historic landmarks such as Rosenborg Castle, the Marble Church, and Tivoli Gardens, with runners treated to live music and DJs at every turn. The event kicked off under favourable weather conditions, helping the runners ease into the race. However, as they reached the midpoint, the weather took a turn, and they were met with a heavy downpour.

Despite the challenging conditions, the team’s spirits

remained high. The marathon was a large-scale event with 20,000 participants and thousands of spectators who lined the streets, offering support and boosting the morale of runners. Cpl Mewes noted that all team members experienced the phenomenon of "hitting the wall", yet each one faced this obstacle head-on and persevered to the finish.

Another sporting event saw LCpl Sajan Gurung of 80 PC Sqn organise a charity event to raise support and resources for an orphanage in Nairobi. He was deeply motivated to contribute to the school children’s wellbeing and planned an arduous challenge to support the orphanage. This concluded in personnel covering 3,890 miles in the gym (Nairobi to Mount Everest) during May. The willing volunteers walked, cycled, ran, rowed, and swam the 3,890 miles in 27 days and raised £1,480

to support the children. The challenge was an excellent opportunity for all members of Kifaru Camp BATUK to make a meaningful difference, whilst also promoting empowerment, optimizing individual fitness, and enhancing team cohesion.

Back on home turf, over a dozen troops from 69 Sqn spent a weekend in June supporting the South Cerney village fayre, providing security and transport for the event, as well as running a stand for the thousands of visitors as part of a community engagement project. Alongside this, Pte Hames of 50 Sqn conducted a half-marathon to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support, whilst a small group of soldiers took part in a CrossFit challenge in support of Cystic Fibrosis on camp.

Finally, thirteen personnel and two support staff participated in Cateran Yomp across the Scottish Wilderness in June. This saw them returning to the Regt with ten gold, two silver and one bronze medal. A brilliant achievement and one which was awarded with the presentation of their fundraising efforts (£1,500) to the ABF in a regimental parade.

8 The 29 Regt Copenhagen marathon team

8 The Cateran Yomp team with its impressive medal haul

150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL, NEWCASTLE, HARTLEPOOL, LEEDS, BRADFORD,

DONCASTER, LINCOLN

CO: Lt Col H McCullough • Adjt: Capt S Greaves • RSM: WO1 P Poole

Sub-Unit locations: Hull, Lincoln, Tynemouth, Leeds, Doncaster

Over the course of the past few months, 150 Regiment RLC has had significant real-time commitments in support of the Field Army coordinating UK Mounting. Concurrently it has conducted community outreach with recruitment and retention events, all whilst balancing the significant effort put into the coordination and execution of the RLC ‘Wagoners’ Weekend’, competition celebrating the Regt’s heritage.

Deployments and Field Army support

150 Regt provided the UK Mounting headquarters for Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER. The Unit was responsible for ensuring that all deploying Units were prepared and coordinated for onward movement to Europe. Over three deployments over 5,000 personnel and 3,000 vehicles and major pieces of equipment were moved by rail, sea and air in what is considered NATO’s largest exercise since the end of the Cold War. A huge task, it was successfully delivered without disruption to UK civil traffic. Seamlessly working with commercial logistic partners, large amounts of armour were moved through the channel tunnel and onto multiple European destinations by train, supporting the strategic messaging that UK military forces can be credibly moved at pace. The Regt has concurrently deployed personnel on operations to Eastern Europe, to BATUK and BPST Kenya and in the UK supporting Ukrainian training and Afghan rehoming. It has certainly been one of the busiest periods in memory.

Community outreach

Personnel from 150 Regt continue to actively engage with their local communities and develop relationships with local organisations to mutual benefit. Members of 218 and 523 Sqns

were kindly requested to take part in the Freedom of Hull parade in April and most recently 219 Sqn, with support from Doncaster Council, organised a seven-a-side football tournament at Doncaster Rovers FC stadium complex. The competition was open to the public and drew in large crowds with representation from various organisations. The overall winners were the team from Doncaster Council, with Mayor Ros Jones presenting trophies and medals to the players.

219 Sqn was also invited to attend a morning of activities hosted by Doncaster Cultural and Leisure Trust at Hatfield Marina. An opportunity for the soldiers of the Sqn to enjoy the facilities whilst maintaining important relationships with the local community.

Training

At 217 Sqn, there has been real success in supporting the delivery of license acquisition. Several members of the Sqn have taken time off from their civilian roles to gain vital career enhancing licences such as Cat C+E and Cat D. Meanwhile, the Permanent Staff team at 219 Sqn has arranged military skills training during training nights with a focus on RTC/BCD scenarios. They have also emphasised the importance of remaining current in their trade and have been on several simulated road moves in the local area.

8 217 Sqn’s football team celebrating success at the seven-a-side tournament

Sports

150 Regt SP have also found the time to represent the Unit through sport and adventurous training. Amongst the success stories is 160 Sqn’s LCpl Benson who was selected to represent the Army in the Men’s Inter-Services T20 tournament, held at Lord’s. He has since been selected to represent the UKAF Combined Services and made his debut against Yorkshire. Elsewhere, 217 Sqn’s Ptes Thomas and Platt have represented the Regt at the RLC Clay Target Championships, and 216 Sqn’s Pte Mavin has been selected to join the AGC netball sports tour to Fiji.

Join Us

We have sub-Unit locations in Doncaster, Hull, Leeds, Lincoln and Tynemouth and we are always looking to hear from those considering joining or transferring across from the Regular Army. Scan the QR code to find out more.

151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

CROYDON

CO: Lt Col E Lewis • Adjt: Capt E Jeffries • RSM: WO1 S Jaffa

Over the last few months Reservists from 151 Regiment RLC have served alongside regular counterparts, 10 QOGLR and 27 Regt RLC, on Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER.

20,000 British Service Personnel (SP) deployed to central, north and eastern Europe on Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER 24 alongside 70,000 troops from all their 32 NATO allies. Reservists from 151 Regt joined 10 QOGLR colleagues in February and 27 Regt colleagues in April-May as they sustained 7 LMBCT and 12 ABCT in Germany and Poland.

In February, 12 SP mobilised to Holzdorf in Germany to join 10 QOGLR. Drivers were familiarised on the articulated lorries, joining convoys across Europe. Others took on marshalling and stores roles, gaining valuable experience operating at a much larger scale than normal. Pte White Overton said: “The two highlights for me were being part of the Brigade Commander’s visit, utilising my driver training on white fleet to help showcase our work, and the cultural visit to Berlin.”

In April, 27 Regt relieved 10 QOGLR. Three SP from 151 Regt once again deployed to Europe alongside colleagues from 157 Regt RLC. Split between Holzdorf and Northeast Poland, they took on

roles in CSCs, on packet moves between Germany and Poland, and during the sustainment enterprise day. 2Lt Emily Fisher, said: “Being part of Operation LINOTYPER provided an unrivalled opportunity for reservists from 151 RLC to integrate with and work alongside our regular counterparts. We honed our existing abilities operating green fleet and developed new capabilities on white fleet vehicles and operating abroad to deliver vital kit and supplies to Poland.”

The Nijmegen Marches –

By 2Lt Emily Fisher

This year, a team of 10 from 151

Regt joined 45,000 others from 70 countries to complete the iconic endurance challenge.

The team walked over 40km per day for four consecutive days (with male team members carrying 10kg in addition to kit). Days started between 0300-0500 with a march past senior inspecting officers. Teams had to ensure rests throughout the day were limited due to a strict cut off of 1700 in order to continue the challenge the following day.

The atmosphere throughout the challenge was unlike anything anyone had experienced before. Local people make the route into a carnival, filling their streets with live music from brass bands and singers, speakers, stages, water pistols, flags, and more. Children excitedly offer marshmallows, salty snacks and even freshly fried egg sandwiches to sustain the marchers, in the hope of a patch or floppy hat in return!

Along with the 7,000 military personnel from NATO nations sharing Camp Heumensoord, the 151 Regt team’s shuffles to scoff every evening got slower by the day and the queue for the foot clinic got longer. However, regardless of pain, everyone was up the next day ready for more, and most of the team are secretly thinking they will be back for more next year!

The final day is the longest - 48km officially - but ends with a huge celebration in the centre of Nijmegen town. 5km before the end, military teams are diverted off to congregate with other teams from their country. The team marched, with the British contingent with a band for a final five (long) kilometres to the finish line.

Now the blisters are healed, the feeling of pride remains and I have a feeling I’ll be back in Nijmegen next year. It was fantastic to spend the week with colleagues from across the Regt and undertake this challenge together.

8 Weary and foot sore, 151 Regt’s Nijmegen team at the finish

8 Three 151 Regt Reservists deployed with 27 Regt on Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER

152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST

CO: Lt Col RT Clements

Spring 2024 has been a fruitful period for 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC, with many opportunities taken by members of the Regt from diligently preparing for deployment on Op LINOTYPER to outstanding success in a multitude of Operational Shooting Competitions.

March marked a significant victory for 400 Sqn as it triumphed in the Regiment Operational Shooting Competition, laying the foundation for success for future tournaments. The same month, 152 Regt hosted the Corps Sergeant Major, an event that underscored the importance of leadership and mentorship within the ranks. Additionally, members of the Regt demonstrated their support for the broader military and local community when 211 Sqn assisted Foyle Combined Cadet Force during a weekend event. This support further exemplified the Regt’s commitment to fostering relationships in our local area.

April brought a wave of promotions within the Regt, reflecting the professional growth and accomplishments of its soldiers. Two SSgts were promoted to WO2, while five Sgts were elevated to the rank of SSgt. These promotions not only recognised the individual achievements of these soldiers but also strengthened the leadership structure within the Regt. Furthermore, 152 Regt was crowned the RLC Reserve Operational Shooting Champions, a testament to the training and dedication of the shooting team. The month also saw a significant deployment, with 26 members of the Regt participating in Op LINOTYPER, supporting the TEG by seamlessly integrating with 9 Regt RLC and providing crucial bulk fuel support. This deployment highlighted the operational readiness and capability of the Unit as the Army’s only Fuel Support Regiment.

In May, the Regt competed in the

104 TS Bde sports competition, fostering camaraderie and physical fitness among its members. This event was followed by the UNIFIED WOLF Awards, the highlight was WO2 McFarland receiving the award for "Most Contribution to Sport” for his efforts at Regimental, Corps and Army Reserve football. This accolade underscored his dedication to promoting sports and physical excellence within the Regt, inspiring others to follow suit.

June was a month of public engagement and more shooting success. The 152 Regt Pipes and Drums performed at the D-Day commemoration in Portrush, entertaining over 2,000 attendees. Their performance was a poignant reminder of the Regt’s rich traditions and its role in commemorating historical events.

Additionally, the Pipes and Drums performed and marched at Armed

Forces Day Northern Ireland, further showcasing their talents, and enhancing the Regt’s visibility and connection with the local community. In the same month, the Regt excelled at the Army Reserve Operational Shooting Competition. Despite one of the team having to pull out with injury after the first shoot, the Regt achieved an impressive fourth place with only seven firers, six of whom placed in the top 24 best shots. Notably, LCpl McClure was awarded the second ever Kings Medal for being the best shot in the Army Reserve, a remarkable achievement.

Additionally, Ex POTENTIAL WOLF, run by 152 Regt on behalf of 104 TS Bde, provided a challenging training weekend at Grantham for 11 Regular and Reserve candidates interested in gaining a King’s Commission.

Overall, this period was marked by numerous achievements and significant activities for the Regt. From competitive successes and promotions to operational deployments and community engagement, these events showcased the Regt's dedication to excellence, leadership, and service. Each accomplishment contributed to 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLCs esteemed reputation and underscored the vital role it plays in both the military and the wider community.

Adjt: Capt S McIlveen

RSM: WO1 M S Macrae

8 Competitors in 152 ROSC

8 Candidates taking part in a Command Task on Ex POTENTIAL WOLF

154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

DUNFERMLINE

CO: Lt Col C O’Brien • Adjt: Capt N Fairclough • RSM: WO1 D Knox

It has been a highly successful and productive period for 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC. The Regt has won multiple army level and multinational competitions that have taken place in Morocco and within the UK. It completed a positive pre-deployment training package for Ex NORTHERN STRIKE (USA) and saw the deployment of Maj Davidson (OC 221 Sqn) to Morocco as part of the 4 LBCT HQ during Ex AFRICAN LION 24. This quarter has showcased the talent within the Regt whilst highlighting the level of commitment of its Reservist Officers and Soldiers alike.

Pre-deployments/deployments

Ex AFRICAN LION (Morocco)Morocco is increasingly the exercise destination of choice for 154 Regt. Maj Allan Davidson, OC 221 (Glasgow) Sqn, deployed on Ex AFRICAN LION as part of a 4 LBCT staff team supporting the US AFRICOM-led multinational exercise. Having been confined to a CPX he returned understandably untanned compared to the bronzed, dusty, off-road warriors who took part in the Ex ATLAS EXPRESS motorsport event (see story P3). Nonetheless, his knowledge provided great value toward the exercise when planning logistics within a Land Component Command (LCC) construct.

Pre-Deployment TrainingEx NORTHERN STRIKE (USA) In preparation for deployment to

the USA for Ex NORTHERN STRIKE, 31 members of 151, 154 and 156 Regiments RLC took to the roads of Central Scotland for familiarisation on HMVEE and LMTE, which are the US Army’s equivalent of the MAN SV 6-tonne and the Land Rover. Thanks to the instruction from SSgt Ramirez and SSgt Leal of the US Air Force, all 31 RLC soldiers were trained to standard. Elsewhere, to develop relationships between the US Service Personnel and The RLC Reservists, everyone participated in cultural visits to Scotland’s castles. We hope to host them in the autumn on some muddier surfaces!

Sports

Orienteering - The Orienteering team has had a very busy period entering the Army Inter Unit Competition in May and the RLC Inter Unit Championships in June, both held in Aldershot.

The Army two-day event

consisted of both individual and team events. Entering the Senior event for the first time and after some good runs, the team finished fifth overall against some strong opposition from 24 other major unit teams.

The RLC event was a one-day score event with the team retaining the Reserve Shield with some excellent individual runs. Pte Ellie Bryce was the Under 25 winner and second Female overall and Pte Callum Macfadyen placed second Male Under 25. Also, Pte Tom Winsor placed second in the Male individual competition.

Football - In May, 154 Regt finished third in the Scottish Six-ASide League tournament, which was held in Edinburgh. After going 3-1 up against the eventual league winners, the very hot weather saw the team’s legs waiver and 39 Royal Engineer Regiment seized the opportunity and finished on top as 5-3 winners. As a result, 39 Royal Engineer Regiment won the title. Such a close fought match clearly showcased the potential that 154 Regt’s football has; and it is hoped that next year’s tournament will result in a resounding victory.

8 The 154 Regt Orienteering 1st Reserve Team

8 Ex NORTHERN STRIKE pre-deployment training: Rest halt at Stirling Castle

156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL

CO: Lt Col A Tang • Adjt: Capt B Griffin • RSM: WO1 K Hicks

156 Regiment RLC began the summer months preparing for this year’s annual camp at the end of September. Numerous field-based trade training weekends were complemented by MHE courses, driving courses and LSS and CMT trade upgrades, boosting operational effectiveness across the Regt. The soldiers’ skills were also tested during an excellent Operating in Built Up Areas (OBUA) weekend in Catterick. Parallel to this, soldiers from the Regt continued to support operations and other commitments. The Regt has representatives on Op INTERFLEX and Op LAZURITE and has also deployed personnel in support of a short-term training team (STTT) to Mozambique, building capability in partner nation forces. The Regt sent a troop to Ex NORTHERN STRIKE in Michigan, USA. This was a large-scale US exercise led by the US National Guard. The 156 Regt soldiers were fully integrated into the National Guard formations, receiving training on and using a variety of US weapon systems and vehicles. An amazing experience for the soldiers, it also demonstrated effective interoperability with a close ally.

Charity events

This quarter saw several charitable events completed by regimental

personnel, raising a significant amount of money for great causes. The Regt had a team complete the CATERAN YOMP in support of the Army Benevolent Fund; a soldier

completed the coast-to-coast challenge, walking from St Bees to Robin Hoods Bay, for Breast Cancer Now; and an officer swam the channel in support of Rugby for Heroes. Another officer from 156 Regt cycled 450 miles to the Somme battlefields, raising money for the Paul Lavelle Foundation.

Ex MASTERS MEMORIAM

This summer has been topped off by Ex MASTERS MEMORIAM. This was a superb battlefield study attended by personnel from both 156 Regt and 10 QOGLR. Participants travelled through France and Belgium over the course of a week, visiting pivotal locations along the Western Front and learning about the sustainment issues faced by both sides during the First World War.

Looking forward

The Regt looks forward to next quarter, where it will complete its Annual Continuous Training camp, the highlight of the training year. In 2024/25, this will see troops from 156 Regt fully integrated into 10 QOGLR and 27 Regt RLC to complete collective training.

8 156 Regt reservists getting to grips with US kit in Michigan

8 Soldiers undergoing OBUA training in Catterick

8 Delivering logistics training to the Armed Forces of Mozambique

157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

CARDIFF

CO: Lt Col T Shaw • Adjt: Capt R Sayer • RSM: WO1 H Blackmore

Pleasant spring and summer weather has hit 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC, chasing away the clouds of winter. Contrary to popular belief Wales enjoys some sunshine too! The Regt said a final farewell and good luck to the departing CO Lt Col Angela Briggs and welcomed Lt Col Tom Shaw to the helm. In addition, back in April the RSMs had a handover too with WO1 Craig Jones passing the stick to WO1 Hazel Blackmore, welcome RSM and good luck Craig.

Ex STUDIOUS DRAGON (St David’s Day) – By Maj T Evans RLC (XO 157 Regt)

The annual Ex STUDIOUS DRAGON which falls neatly in the calendar with St David’s Day was a hit this year. The Regt closed in on Maindy Barracks, where a weekend of interesting briefs and study replaced the ordinary ‘green’ reserve weekend. We were blessed to have a mixture of interesting external speakers, notably Mr Andrew Robertshaw a British military historian, curator, author, and educator who specialises in the history of the World Wars. Fittingly he set the scene for the Battle of Monte Cassino, an upcoming Battlefield Study for the Regt.

The first day cumulated in a dinner night in the Cardiff and County Club, a stone’s throw away from the Principality Stadium (Millennium in old money). Even if Wales were having a shocker in the Six Nations, the prospect of a wooden spoon didn’t dampen spirits. The Regt was treated to a RLC Drums display and some traditional Welsh culinary delights with the 101 OSB Bde Comd, Dep Comd, Honorary Colonel and RLC Col Reserve in attendance. The night was a huge success, and a shout out must go to Maj Anthony Hutcheon who orchestrated the whole thing whilst balancing his busy civilian job!

Ex Cassino Dragon 24 –

By LCpl Price AGC – 398 Sqn

From the 3 - 7 Jun, 25 ranks from 157 Regt embarked on an educational battlefield study to Monte Cassino, Italy organised by SSgt Davidge (SPSI 398 Sqn). This site holds significant historical importance as the location of a critical World War II battle, where the Allied forces began the liberation of Italy from the Nazi occupation.

The tour included fourteen visits to key defensive positions and battle sites. Observing the rugged terrain and fortification that the allies had to overcome was eye opening. It was here that we could truly understand the strategic challenges posed by Monte Cassino’s topography.

As a logistic regiment, this

experience also highlighted the critical role of logistics in the military operations. The Battle of Monte Cassino underscored the importance of efficient supply lines, the delivery of ammunition, medical supplies and reinforcements under hostile conditions. Gaining first hand appreciation for the logistical challenges faced during this campaign, enhanced our understanding of our own roles within the modern military framework. The ability to sustain an army in such difficult conditions was a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the logistics personnel of the time.

The battlefield study to Monte Cassino and Anzio was an enriching and sobering experience for the ranks that attended. It provided invaluable insights into the historical significance of the battles and extraordinary efforts of those who fought there.

Additionally, it deepened my appreciation for the vital role of logistics in military success. As we departed, the lessons learned and the memories of the sacrifices made, left an incredible mark on all who attended.

8 Monte Cassino Abbey today

8 Members of the Regt at Monte Cassino, Italy

158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH

CO: Lt Col A Swales MBE • Adjt: Capt J Eddie • RSM: WO1 E Emmanuel

This period kicked off with 158 Regiment RLC taking the opportunity to host DCFA in RHQ, to conduct a deep dive into the recruiting environment, unit pipelines and best practice. In addition to being able to talk through some of the knotty problems the ARes faces and is currently contending with, it was also a great opportunity to highlight some fantastic achievements by the Regt’s people. DCFA kindly presented a Long Service certificate to one of the civil servants, recognising over two decades of dedicated service, as well as a 2* commendation to the QM department as part of the 1 (UK) Division Rhino Awards 2023.

The Regt was also fortunate enough to deploy SP on Ex RHINO HEART 24. This exercise saw 45 officers and soldiers from the Regt deploy to the Sennelager Training area (STA) with a clear mission from Comd 19 Bde: “plan, prepare, deploy, deliver, recover”. The deployment of reservists on this scale was the largest since the Cold War, and one that they were all very proud to be a part of. 158 Regt deployed with a composite RHQ, Sqn, Troop and RLS team, showcasing the viability and adaptability of the Regt as a whole, to come together and succeed.

Deploying from their various ARC locations, and without losing any soldiers or vehicles, the Regt deployed into Germany via the Hook of Holland, conducting DPs, XPs, as well as additional training in driving at night with NVDs, all whilst alongside SP from the US National Guard and German Bundeswehr. The Regt was also fortunate enough to meet Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, and Royal Colonel of the Queen’s Own Yeomanry.

It wasn’t all work though, with the Regt taking advantage of its two weeks in Germany to conduct a small historic tour of the Mohnesee Dam and the Wewelsberg Castle,

not to mention engaging in the fine tradition of football with the Euros having started. All in all, a fantastic exercise.

Moving out of the field and into London, June saw the British Ex Forces in Business Awards held within the Grosvenor Grand Room in Mayfair, London. This event pulls together some of the country’s highest achievers both in the military and within the commercial sector. Award categories are spread across the plethora of achievements, that included both employer and individual awards. One such award category in “Reservist of the Year”, had shortlisted 12 candidates from over 900 nominations.

158 Regt had two of its Officers

in the final 12. A fantastic achievement and one that helped elevate both the position of the Regt and The RLC, while accentuating the many benefits and career development opportunities that are open to RLC reservists. Both Capt Alex Williams and Capt Colin Martin - the two who were nominated and subsequently shortlisted for the award – said: “The synergies formed between our Reserve service and our commercial roles, are a hallmark of our service. The fostering of relations within the wider logistic world and on occasion interoperability opportunities are accentuated by the skills and development path that our Reserve service has facilitated. As was made clear at the event mutual learning opportunities between the military and civilian industry should be exploited. This endeavour lies at the very heart of 158 Regt RLC’s mantra.”

Look Forward

Over the coming months, the Regt will remain busy despite some well-deserved summer leave factored in. Additionally, SP have been aligned at readiness to deploy with the LSG as part of the ARF so will remain poised and ready to deploy if required.

8 Maj Gen Aiden Smyth QVRM TD presents the QM Dept with its 2* commendation

8 Two 158 Regt Officers were shortlisted at the British Ex Forces in Business Awards

159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

COVENTRY

CO: Lt Col R K Pelan • Adjt: Capt R Hartnell • RSM: WO1 S Fiakegbe

159 Regiment RLC has undergone significant change in this period, saying goodbye to the CO Lt Col Heather, Adjt Capt Douglas and WO1 (RSM) Whiting whilst preparing for the imminent departure of the XO Maj Taylor and the QM Maj Swift, after his detachment as OC of the HAP. We wish them all the best for the future and welcome the new CO Lt Col Pelan and RSM WO1 Fiakegbe.

Top Cadet receives MacRobert Sword

Following two years as a reservist soldier with 125 Supply Squadron, 2Lt Boddy attended the Commissioning Course Short at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS). An intensive course which tested her physically and mentally in arduous, sub-zero exercise conditions where she learnt a vast array of skills including field craft, CEO, navigation, and how to efficiently scale 10ft walls in the obstacle course. Throughout the course 2Lt Boddy displayed the drive, determination and leadership traits previously demonstrated in the sub-Unit before she left. Exceeding expectations in the combat estimate and orders process with respective scores of 91% and 84%, she also took time to assist others in command positions whilst continuously showing an incredible willingness to face and enjoy all challenges presented by the course. For her efforts she was duly awarded the MacRobert Sword for Best Reserve Potential

Officer which was presented to her by Maj Gen R Nitsch CBE during her Commissioning Parade on the 23 Mar 24.

Back to basics

159 Regt hit the ground running this training year with a focus on dismounted BCS. Having revised rural techniques up to section level during Ex BARBARIAN ROD the Regt was quick to build on this and adapt to the emerging threats of urban warfare by deploying to Cilieni Village, Sennybridge for the follow-on Ex BARBARIAN PERUN and DAZBOG. For many this was their first experience of FIBUA and a quick learning curve. Exercising troops got immediately stuck into the more advanced building clearance manoeuvres and techniques. Unit instructors developed troops from complete

unfamiliarity to successfully conducting several complex attacks, clearing multiple buildings, and effectively adapting to enemy movements, trapped rooms and casualties… All in a weekend.

Ex STEADFAST DETERRENCE –Divisional LO

Exercise STEADFAST DETERRENCE 2024 was held at the Joint Warfare Centre, Norway (JWC Norway) in May 2024. As the UK prepares to take over from Italy on 1 Jul 24 as the Lead Land Component of NATO's Allied Reaction Force, the exercise serves as the Combat Readiness Evaluation (CREval) ensuring we are ready to deliver our commitment. It involved thousands of theoretical troops from various NATO member countries, showcasing a diverse array of military assets and forces including ground forces, naval units, and air power. The exercise is set in the challenging terrain and harsh climate of Norway, providing a realistic environment to test and improve interoperability among NATO forces. Key objectives include rapid deployment, coordination of joint operations, and response to potential threats. During the exercise, Capt Cartern deployed as the Divisional Liaison Officer for the Joint Logistic Support Group, a role that required him to brief the General Officer Commanding 1 (UK) Div, work directly within the G5, G3/5 of 102 OS Bde, liaise on triservice operations, and build strong international relationships with other NATO member countries.

8 OCdt Boddy receives the MacRobert Sword from Maj Gen R Nitsch CBE

162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM

CO: Lt Col J Hodgson • Adjt: Capt W Eagle • RSM: WO1 L Tokonibau

It has been a busy period for 162 Regiment RLC. March kicked off with an infantry exercise at Yardley Chase. The soldiers were put through their paces in very wet and cold conditions. The Troop had at its disposal not only use of a luxurious forward operating base, but also a field kitchen, General Purpose Machine Guns and BOWMAN radios. Moving into April the Regt conducted an ITR package on Exercise SHERWOOD GREEN. The package focused on ranges, behaviours and the SCR.

281 Movement Squadron was joined by the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association Media Team who got plenty of “action” shots on the ranges and spoke to the soldiers about their lived experience in the reserves. May saw the Regiment take part in Ex WAGON CHALLENGE, with LCpl George and Pte Lacey helping to complete the team. Finally, the Regt has said a fond farewell to WO2 Carlie Johnson who has been an absolute stalwart of the 281 Sqn since she first walked through the door three years ago. We wish her all the best on her next posting to 11 EOD&S Regt RLC. However, we also welcomed a new soldier into the Regimental Family. Having passed her Battle Camp, Pte Laszlo marched off the square

at Grantham on 22 Jun 24 and into the rest of her career in the Army Reserve.

The Cateran Yomp is the biggest and toughest event of its kind. In June six soldiers from 282 Squadron and hundreds of Yompers gathered in the Scottish wilderness to battle through the foothills of the Cairngorm Mountains, walking continuously for 22 miles (Bronze), 36 miles (Silver) or 54 miles (Gold) to raise money for the Army Benevolent Fund.

LCpl Brown and LCpl Harrison

8 The 162 Regt Cateran Yomp team achieved a gold medal

were asked… ‘What did we experience?’ They said: “Four seasons in one day, at points four seasons in one hour. There were moments of complete and utter isolation walking through the wilderness in the dark. Camaraderie like you’ve never seen before. Sore toes. Sore heels. Sore arches. Sore everything. Three square meals. Cakes, sweets and treats with a brew. Amazing scenery and a fantastic sunrise. The team was supported and helped along the way by brilliant admin team who were on hand to provide words of encouragement and help with niggles at various checkpoints. Was it easy? No! Did we want to give up at times? Yes. However, through sheer grit and determination, we persevered and pushed through the pain, the nausea and exhaustion to receive a hard-earned gold medal.”

The team achieved the gold medal with all finishing the gruelling 54 miles, SSgt McCluskey came third overall finishing in 12 hrs 15 mins.

8 281 Sqn on the ranges during Ex SHERWOOD GREEN

165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC

PLYMOUTH

CO: Lt Col G Symonds • Adjt: Capt A Stephenson • RSM: WO1 P Viant

165 Port & Maritime Regiment

RLC has had a busy start to the summer period with soldiers and officers participating in sporting events, mobilising for operations and deployments alongside a myriad of other key events.

10th Anniversary

In May, the Regt celebrated its 10th Anniversary since its reformation from 155 (Wessex) Transport Regiment. To celebrate this the Regt held an all-ranks study weekend in South Cerney, which culminated in a joint Officers’ and SNCOs’ dinner night and attended by the Regt’s new Honorary Colonel Mr Adrian Bratt of Princess Yachts. Also in attendance were representatives from the Worshipful Company of Launderers and the Honourable Company of Master Mariners; both organisations being vitally important in the relationships and traditions to the Regt’s respective Port and Operational Hygiene Sub-Units.

Sporting achievements

Another successful period for sport; the Regt participated in both the RLC Inter-Unit Netball Boden Cup competition and the RLC Tennis Championships with success in both winning the Boden Cup and winning the Inter-Unit doubles. At an individual level, LCpl Kerrison competed in the Army InterServices Martial Arts championship achieving two Golds, one Team

Gold and a Bronze medal; whilst Sgt Tremaine competed against the AGC in Corps Basketball. 2Lt Bryson continued her 2024 Paris Olympics preparations by winning Gold in the Modern Pentathlon World Cup final held in Ankara, Turkey. Despite a record setting effort in her Olympic semi-final the medals eluded her the following day. All these outstanding achievements continue to contribute to the Army Sports Trophy which the Regt will be hoping to retain the title for a second consecutive year.

Training

710 Operational Hygiene Squadron deployed on its alternative ACT attached to 243 MMR. During this time members of the Sqn moved to Grantham to support Ex UNIFIED WOLF and the 104 TS Bde Festival of Sport which was organised by the Regt in cooperation with 167 Regt RLC and Ex ARMY SUSTAINER. 142 Vehicle Support Sqn delivered its Special to Arm weekend focussing on Vehicle Replenishment Section activities coupled with delivering live tasks in support of 17 P&M Regt RLC at Marchwood. Whilst most recently 232 Squadron delivered the latest regimental core combat skills weekend in Longmoor.

A look forward

With summer leave approaching, the RHQ is in the final planning stages of the regimental ACTEx AUSTERE WYVERN - alongside the delivery of the Devon & Cornwall-based Sub-Units’ AT weekend.

8 The Boden Cup winning team

8 165 Regt are Inter-Unit Doubles Tennis Champions

8 Fantastic effort 2Lt Bryson

167 Catering Support Regiment RLC GRANTHAM

CO: Lt Col J Rathbone • Adjt: Capt C McColl • RSM: WO1 S Allison

Amalgamation of 167 Cat Sp Regt RLC and 2 OSG RLC

On 1 July 2024, 2 Operational Support Group (2 OSG) Royal Logistic Corps amalgamated with 167 Catering Support Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps to form the new 167 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps. 2 OSG marked the event with an all ranks ‘Last Supper’ held in the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks Warrant Officers and Sergeants on 29 Jun 24 to coincide with the Group’s final training weekend. 167 Cat Sp Regt held a Families Day on 6 Jul 24 to mark the occasion of forming a new regiment and the disbandment of the catering regiment. The Regt also used the occasion to officially open the Mackenzie-Rayner suite for the welfare of all SP; named after the (late) Quartermaster, Maj Tracey Mackenzie-Rayner who sadly was taken from us far too soon.

The capabilities previously delivered by 2 OSG remain and are now found in 498 Operational Support Squadron providing Contract Management, Host Nation Support and Logistic Analysis staff to HQ ARRC, with 500 Communications Troop growing to a squadron to support CSS regimental HQs. 111 and 112 Catering Support Squadrons remain delivering Catering Capability to the Field Army and 113 Headquarters Squadron has been created to manage the much bigger unit. In addition, the Army Reserve School of Catering is being

expanded into the Army Reserve Sustainment School. This will continue to provide chef training for the whole of the Army Reserve but will develop to take on staff, communications and driver training. The Regt also welcomes the new Commanding Officer Lt Col Joel Rathbone and his family.

Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 2025

Exercise ARMY SUSTAINER 2024 was held at Prince William of Gloucester Barrack on the 18 May 24 and saw and influx of new generational Chefs participating from different nations, The RLC, RAF and QOGLR. On a gloriously sunny day multiple chefs competed against each other in 15 categories ranging from cake decorating, to junior and senior skills and team competitions such as field and improvised catering. The head judges of these events all highlighting the teamwork and leadership capabilities of all the teams involved.

Noticeable efforts from the Royal Army of Oman team and our firstyear attendees the Lithuanian Army; saw them place very high in the international improvised and cook and serve events. This year saw an increase in the craft element of the competition with a special mention to the QOGLR chefs who entered in vast numbers.

Once again, the event helped the 167 Regt RLC, 104 Bde and Armed Forces solidify ongoing defence engagement and continue to showcase the capability of their Chefs. We should see the Danish Home Guard and Royal Airforce of Oman chefs participate again in ExAS25 competition.

Exercise Army SUSTAINER 2025 date 17 May 25 at Grantham Station, 167 Regt RLC.

Call out to all Reservists

167 Regt is a National Unit with a minimum commitment for COE of 19 Days. Should you wish for a new and exciting challenge, please email the RCMO John.Landy542@mod.gov.uk who will go through the terms of service for a National Reservist and the many CEG opportunities we have for Soldiers or Officers within the new Regt.

8 Chefs from the Omani Army competed at ExAS24

8 The Mackenzie-Rayner suite

20 Transport Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps

LONDON

OC: Maj C Frost • SSM: WO2 G Keen

20 Squadron RLC had the honour of hosting a RLC senior leadership conference in Regent’s Park Barracks Mess. The new Master General of Logistics, Major General Jo Chestnutt CBE kindly took the time to present the Sqn with its Coronation Medals. It was great to hear from the new MGL and all involved were delighted to receive recognition for their efforts last year, during the King’s Coronation.

Promotions

There has been more success on promotion boards for 20 Sqn as Cpl Limbu and Cpl Bradley were selected for promotion to Sergeant. Both individuals rightly being recognised for outstanding work in two challenging positions working in MOD Main Building and the Unit Welfare department respectively. Welcome to the WO’s and Sgt’s Mess.

8 Cpl Limbu and Cpl Bradley were select for promotion to Sgt

8 20 Sqn marked its birthday by running 139 miles around London

8 Coronation Medal Presentation by Maj Gen Chestnutt CBE

20 Sqn’s turns 139

20 Sqn’s Service Personnel and Civil Servants had the pleasure of marking the Sqn’s 139th birthday. The Sqn celebrated by running an impressive 139 miles around central London, symbolising each year of the Sqn's existence. Adding to the festivities, former Sqn members were invited back to the Warrant Officer's and Sergeants’ Mess to reconnect and catch up with one another. It was a day filled with celebration, camaraderie, and reminiscing about shared experiences.

Ex COCKNEY HUSKY

Members of the Sqn managed to get away on a Battlefield Study to Sicily where they studied, in depth, Operation Husky and the Logistic implications of such expeditionary warfare. This insightful historical study provided the troops of 20 Sqn with a deeper understanding of logistics, enhancing their appreciation for the complexities and innovations of the past. It was an enriching experience that combined learning with an appreciation of history, offering valuable lessons for the present and future.

8 20 Sqn on its Battlefield Study in Sicily

132 Aviation Supply Squadron Royal Logistic Corps

IPSWICH

OC: Maj McHugh • SSM: WO2 S Jones

Ex ATTLAS BATTLE, was an opportunity for 132 Aviation Supply Squadron RLC to conduct both trade training and an ITR package, involving sustainment support of BCT units with BSG Log RV and Ammo Troop in their deployed roles. This was an opportunity for newly assigned soldiers to understand the nuances of aviation logistics. Additionally, a detachment from 2 PARA delivered an up-to-date Sect Battle Drills package to the Sqn with current doctrine, with JNCOs earning their money; applying what they had learned after some practice. They were tested on their command and leadership skills in a war fighting environment to defend the operating base. The result was impressive considering that training was conducted within a day.

Op LYNOTYPER

Op LYNOTYPER was NATO’s mutinational exercise held in Estonia. A detachment from the Sqn led by Sgt Mgoola and composed of LCpls Mckenzie, Leyland, Akuffo and Pte Holt, were attached to 4 Regt AAC in support of 1 Aviation BCT. 4 AAC and 3 Regt AAC tested the new Apache Helicopter (AH) E platforms and 132 Squadron provided logistic support to sustain the REME technicians with aviation spares. Wattisham Flying Station units deployed on this exercise by road from UK into mainland Europe with over one hundred green fleet vehicles. Over nine days they travelled to Estonia through Germany, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. This was a planned exercise for a strategic and tactical logistic move into a war fighting setting.

Ex ATLAS EXPLORER

Ex ATLAS EXPLORER provided 132 Sqn with an Adventurous Training (AT) opportunity which took place in Bavaria, Germany over the period 10 – 20 Jun 24. The AT was aimed at providing personnel from the Sqn

with the opportunity to experience various physically arduous outdoor activities in an unfamiliar environment. The activities include hill walking, mountain biking, rock climbing and kayaking. At the end of the AT, rock climbers completed a foundation course and were awarded with basic rock-climbing foundation qualification; mountain bikers were awarded with bruises. The bikers also experienced and enjoyed riding the new E-bikes and covered a distance over 150km. On the other hand, hill walkers had an amazing experience by climbing some of the highest mountains in Bavaria and enjoying some breathtaking views. All in all, it was a great experience especially to most junior members of the Sqn.

Educational visit

132 Sqn took time off from a busy schedule and visited the Imperial

War Museum. The purpose of this visit was to enable the soldiers to improve their knowledge of the history of the British Army in various campaigns through the ages. They experienced rich personal tales and first-hand accounts of British and Commonwealth involvement in 20th and 21st century conflicts around the world. They also learnt how past campaigns have shaped the modern warfare in terms of strategic battle preparation and planning, tactics, logistic support, the modernisation of equipment, aviation assets and weapons.

COWO Visit

The Conductor Warrant Officer (COWO) took some time out from his busy schedule in Army HQ to visit 132 Sqn on 26 Jun 24. During the visit, he gave out three COWO coins to Cpl Amoakwa for his outstanding work in consolidation of the Ammo Account and disposal of the Apache MK1 ammunition; LCpl Nailiko for outstanding work in support of overseas exercises and Pte McCook for inventory management in support of the new E model AH. In his last remarks he thanked all SP in 132 Sqn for their enduring work supporting 1st Aviation BCT units and the Army.

8 Hill walkers on AT in Balvaria

8 WO1 James RLC (COWO) presenting a COWO Coin to LCpl Nailiko

British Forces Brunei - RLC Logistic Support

BRUNEI

SO3 Log Sp: Capt D Knott • GCWO: WO1

S Loghmani

Garrison Support Troops in British Forces Brunei have been supporting the Littoral Response Group (South) in the Indo Asian Pacific Region as an inter theatre dependency.

SO3 Logistic Support –

Capt Dan Knott

Leading the Garrison Support Troops in Brunei to support the Littoral Response Group (South) (LRG(S)) has been a truly rewarding experience. The task was complex and time-sensitive, involving collaboration with the British High Commissioner, Defence Attaché and Naval HQ. It required local resourcing, significant Firm Base support and orchestrating a highly skilled logistics team. Our goal was to use Brunei as an intertheatre dependency to support partnered training and Defence Engagement in the region.

The journey began with months of meticulous planning and development. We focused on building the necessary infrastructure and securing local procurement to support the task. Tight timelines required us to work at a significant pace and the team rose to the occasion with remarkable efficiency. We developed a comprehensive synchronisation matrix, deconflicted resources, managed substantial budgets and enhanced the camp's existing infrastructure.

Ensuring the LRG(S) activity aligned with the Host Nation's regulations and expectations was key. This involved close collaboration and engagement via the Defence Attaché to support the Host Nation with the overwhelming volume of customs compliance, permits and diplomatic clearances required for the task.

Throughout the task, the dedication and professionalism of the Garrison Support Troops was evident. Every team member played a crucial role in the task. From initial planning to final execution, each step was meticulously coordinated to ensure nothing was left to chance. The result was a series of successful operations that exceeded our expectations.

In this article, we highlight the exceptional work of WO2 Ellis MBE (SMC FE) in movements and port operations and WO2 Bishop (ATWO) in ammunition management. Their efforts, along with the collective hard work of the entire team, made the success of the LRG(S) programme possible.

Movements

and Port Operations – Senior Movement Controller (Far East) WO2 Chris Ellis MBE

In the weeks preceding the arrival of Royal Navy ships at Maura port, my team and I worked tirelessly to ensure that the ships could offload smoothly and efficiently without

disrupting the shipping programme. This included managing permits, heavy lift, police escorts and persistent engagement with the ships' logistics teams and port & shipping agents. Our meticulous planning and execution ensured that Navy personnel, approximately 10 tonnes of freight, 7.5 tonnes of ammunition and 160 vehicles were offloaded efficiently and safely.

The task began with the departure from the UK, where the Navy ships embarked on their journey to Brunei. Once the vessels had set off, the freight list was 100% finalised and the customs import process could be applied for. For our team, this is one of the most critical parts of the task. Any errors in the Main Export and Import List (MEIL) could result in import licences being rejected and the freight placed into quarantine, causing severe disruption to the shipping programme.

The days leading up to the offload were filled with apprehension and uncertainty. If the vehicles were not offloaded in a particular order or according to the priority load list, it could cause delays. The port infrastructure doesn’t allow the vessels' side ramps to be used, requiring all vehicles and equipment to be offloaded meticulously by crane one by one. This added to the anxiety of meeting the stringent offloading programme and

coordinating additional resources such as police escorts and customs checks. Upon arrival, our small MCC team facilitated the offloading process, ensuring all personnel, freight, ammunition and vehicles were safely disembarked with minimal disruption to the shipping programme. This allowed the vessels to proceed to Singapore for an extensive maintenance programme before returning to Brunei to restow and redeploy to Australia for partnered training.

While the ships were in transit to Singapore, the SO3 Log Support and Cdo RLS team coordinated with the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to remove biohazards from all vehicles and equipment. This involved meticulous cleaning and inspection to meet stringent biosecurity standards. Once cleared, the ships returned to Brunei, where we restowed all personnel, freight, ammunition and vehicles, allowing the LRG(S) to deploy for partnered training with Australia. The dedication, hard work, and commitment of the Garrison Support Troops, logistics SMEs and diplomatic support were pivotal to the success of the LRG(S) task, highlighting the capabilities of the Firm Base as an inter-theatre dependency.

Ammunition Management –WO2 Bishop (Ammunition Technical Warrant Officer) Effective ammunition management is crucial for any military operation. As the Ammunition Technical Warrant Officer, I oversaw the entire ammunition management plan, from offloading the initial 7.5 tonnes of ammunition to assuring the transit, storage, repackaging, and eventual distribution back to the vessels. My team ensured strict control measures were applied and the adherence to Explosive Safety protocols were paramount throughout the task.

My team at the 2nd Line Ammunition Supply Depot showcased their technical proficiency while maintaining high standards of explosive safety under testing conditions against strict timelines. We meticulously managed ammunition handling, storage and transportation

regulations and provided bespoke mentoring for the ships' logistics teams to achieve compliance. Mentoring my junior Ammunition Technician was also key to ensuring his professional growth and imposing strict control measures to maximise the shelf life of the operational stock and ensure optimal environmental factors were met.

This LRG (S) task fully tested our capabilities as a Firm Base regarding ammunition management. This was a no-fail task for us and we were tested in all aspects. The impact of not meeting the Defence objective or diminishing the operational stock was not an option for us. Our team's dedication was instrumental in supporting the LRG(S) programme.

Overall Logistics Management –

Capt Dan Knott (SO3 Log Support)

Leading the Garrison Support Troops in Brunei has been an extraordinary opportunity. The team's dedication, professionalism and exceptional competence made every challenge manageable and rewarding. The success of the LRG (S) plan resulted from months of meticulous planning, infrastructure investment, hard work and business support for the vast array of local procurement.

The LRG (S) plan involved a comprehensive approach to logistics, covering the full spectrum of Combat Service Support. From movements to ammunition to catering support, our holistic approach ensured every detail was accounted for. Our ability to coordinate these complex logistic tasks was a testament to the team's hard work.

For those considering a posting to Brunei, the unique opportunities and immense satisfaction cannot be overstated. The work is demanding, but the chance to be part of a team that impacts operational readiness and regional stability is fulfilling. For those looking to make a meaningful contribution and experience the rewards of overcoming challenging environments, a posting to Brunei with the Garrison Support Troops is an opportunity not to be missed.

Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS)

BENSON, OXFORDSHIRE

OC: Maj A Hughes • 2IC: Flt Lt C Jacobs • SSM: WO2 L Dowling

The Joint Helicopter Support Squadron continues to support aviation across Defence. Matching tempo with the battle rhythm of the flying squadrons and the logistics the Sqn supports, there has been plenty of activity for the Sqn to refine its helicopter handling skills.

Op LYNOTYPER

JHSS support to Op LYNOTYPER in Estonia was in cooperation with the 18 Sqn Chinook helicopter crews and assisted in ensuring the swift and efficient transport of troops and equipment to designated locations. This collaboration allowed the support helicopter to carry out around 20 sorties of engineering equipment transport via underslung equipment; a vital task that ensured the battle could continue to be sustained. This was completed by a using a multiple lane tac-park to collect and distribute equipment and people efficiently and safely. This also allowed JHSS to exercise an activity which is seldom practiced without healthy aviation support.

JHSS was also involved in surveying and inspecting a vast amount of potential helicopter landing sites for safety and security so the Chinooks could land if required. JHSS covered a large amount of ground travelling across large swaths of the northern part of Estonia and assisted Op CABRIT with the revalidation of some of its HLSs.

Furthermore, Op LYNOTYPER involved the movement of 16 AABCT and other NATO troops from Poland and the USA forward. After an initial successful attack, JHSS played an important role in showcasing the strategic mobility and readiness of the Allied forces.

Ex YOUNG CANNONS

JHSS has recently begun regular support to the final exercise of the Royal Artillery’s Young Officers’ Course. This mutually beneficial

arrangement allows the Sqn to practice moving a battery of 105mm Light Guns to forward firing positions along with ammunition and their Pinzgauer gun tractors. A Helicopter Handling Team from JHSS travelled to Sailsbury Plain to support moving guns from Copehill Down to field locations with Chinook helicopters providing the lift.

Ex VORTEX & NOCTEM WARRIOR

JHSS deployed to Southern California to support 18 and 7 Sqn stationed at RAF Odiham to reestablish HLS sites, facilitate underslung load (USL) operations and simulate troop recovery in desert conditions.

8 A multiple lane tac-park was established to collect and distribute equipment and people efficiently

The Sqn also visited the USMC 1st Distribution Support Battalion stationed at Camp Pendleton to observe USL operations utilising their Osprey aircraft. This was a great insight into their rigging operations and team structure. During downtime members of JHSS were able to visit the USS Midway in San Diego and were fortunate enough to be at NAFEC, El Centro during the annual air show to observe the Blue Angels display team.

Ex HOOKERS DAWN

EX HOOKERS DAWN is a Sqn training exercise which enables JHSS personnel to refine their helicopter handling expertise whilst honing fundamental soldiering skills. Supported by 28 Sqn from RAF Benson the collaboration helped sharpen the Heli handling abilities of JHSS personnel but also integrated some specialised Under Slung Load training which exposed 28 Sqn aircrew to a greater variety of loads.

8 Chinooks were used to move 16 AABCT forward in Estonia

44 Support Squadron Royal Military Academy

SANDHURST

OC: Maj Z Zmitrowicz • TCWO: WO1 L Brier

Foreword by the Officer Commanding

Having taken over in July I would like to extend my gratitude to my predecessor, Major Matty Barton, for his custodianship of this impressive multi-cap badged squadron with a vital role that demands a lot of its staff.

As I take the baton, during a period of change under PROJECT ADAIR, I see an exciting time full of opportunities for our troops. With the implementation in full swing at the Academy there is a significant churn in what is expected of us and we are having to remain flexible and upskill at pace to ensure our professionalism and excellent reputation. A challenge relished by us all.

This small squadron certainly packs a punch, each term of the regular commissioning course is 14 weeks long and our soldiers are deploying on over 30 exercises each time. In the last term alone, the soldiers drove a total of 246,361 miles and were employed on over 2,000 tasks. An impressive feat that appears to be business as usual for this hard working and dedicated squadron.

I look forward to the privilege of leading this outstanding and high performing team for my tenure as OC.

Trade progression and extracurricular activities

Despite numerous deployments 44 Sqn has continued to prove its commitment to continuous improvement with a variety of successes. Personnel have been able to attend a plethora of courses such as the Defence GS Driver Conversion Instructor, Defence Licence Acquisition Instructor and deployed on Ex ESSENTIAL ACE, all with the goal of conducting in-house driver training for the RMAS workforce. Sporting success has seen Pte Biaukula consistently playing Army Rugby, the Sqn winning the CO’s Swimming Gala and Cpl Whitchurch securing a place on the RLC Equestrian Team.

A charitable endeavour saw LCpl Bakani, LCpl Ajbin Rana, Pte Kane, Sig Aman Ghale, and Sig Jeevan Malla participating in the Doko Challenge South 2024, their efforts raising a significant amount of money for charity.

And finally, well done to LCpl Magar for receiving the Commandant's Commendation and Pte Jadaa on successful competition of the PTI course.

8 The 44 Sqn Doko race team

8 The OC, TCWO and S Tp Comd on Ex DYNAMIC VICTORY in Germany

8 Pte Jadaa and Pte Shaw deliver a brief on transport to US Army OCdts from Westpoint

Ex WAGONERS’ CHALLENGE 2024

Each May, at Sledmere House, East Yorkshire, the British Army commemorates the Wagoners’ Special Reserve with a competition celebrating the heritage of the Wolds Wagons and the majestic heavy horses which pulled them. This unique Shire horse contest pitches RLC Units against each other in a series of novel events to replicate the life and challenges of the Wagoners’ Special Reserve.

The event brings together a plethora of Regular and Reserve units from across the Corps to compete for the coveted Wagoners’ Challenge Trophy. Each team took part in a series of events which reflect the challenges faced by the Great War Wagoners; such as Long Reining - the requirement to build trust with the horses and then ‘drive’ them with reins extended around a course – and the Bale Challenge - where teams compete against each other to load two original general service wagons with the bales of hay required to sustain the animals, before navigating the horse-drawn wooden vehicles around a course. Other events, such as the Tug of War and Gun Run replicated the physical strains the Wagoners’ Reserve would have endured.

The original Wagoners’ Special Reserve unit are the forebearers of 150 Regiment RLC, who coordinate the day. Raised in 1913 by Sir Mark Sykes (famous of the Sykes-Picot Line), he realised that the British Army needed a large reserve force of experienced and skilled wagon drivers prepared for deployment in case of the breakout of a major war. Predominantly drawn from his estates and the surrounding counties, these farm workers were civilians, expert in their role of looking after the horses and at loading and driving the logistic wagons over difficult terrain.

The following year, the Wagoners’ Reserve was called up and became part of the Army Service Corps. In the period leading up to full mechanisation, their driving ability was used to supply the front lines.

Of the 800 Wagoners who deployed to France and Belgium during the war, 80 lost their lives, in addition to the countless numbers of working horses.

Each RLC unit provided a team of ten novices to compete in each Wagon Challenge activity; most had never worked with horses before. The event embraced the very essence of what we expect from our soldiers; testing themselves physically and mentally whilst working together to achieve a unified goal. After a long, hot and enjoyable day, the overall winners were 1 Regiment RLC based in Bicester, Oxfordshire.

The day was supported with free entry to all military personnel and their families. Hundreds of Veterans, Cadets and members of the community were also in attendance. There were many

community and veteran stands, including, the Veterans Association, Armed Forces Veterans’ Breakfast Clubs, Army Benevolence Fund, Armed Forces Covenant East Yorkshire Council, the Army Cadet Force, the NHS’ Op COURAGE, the Royal Air Force Association, The RLC Waggon Club and the RLC Horse Drawn Heritage Club. Furthermore, a comprehensive display of modern-day and vintage military vehicles was provided by the Defence School of Transport and an avid, private militaria collector, Stephen Thorp. There was also plenty of other stands to keep the visitors entertained.

The 150 Regiment Band and the RLC Corps of Drums, together with the Humber and South Yorkshire Army Cadet Force Band, provided superb entertainment throughout the day.

The event would not have been possible without our sponsors L4 Teamwear, The Afghan Rug Shop and the Sledmere Estate; or without the efforts of the many Reservists, Volunteers and Competitors whose commitment prior to, during and post event were a credit to the Army and the community. Each contributed to a record year for attendance. The date of the next event will be 11 May 2025.

Following two years at Welbeck College, Dick began the RMAS commissioning course only to be sacked after 600 days. He had left the establishment one evening to party with a young lady in London.Tail between his legs, in 1967 Dick returned to his hometown of Leeds where he was accepted as an OCdt in 150 Tpt Regt RCT(V). Moving to London later that year he joined 562 Para Sqn RCT(V). A parachute course and a course at Mons OCS eventually led to a commission.

In 1973 Dick applied for a Short Service Volunteer Commission –with just one for the RCT – and got it. Following the three-month Intermediate Transport Course at Longmoor, Dick was posted to 42 Sqn in Bulford. Dick was subsequently promoted and moved to the Junior Leaders Regiment in Taunton. This was a joyful place, plenty of livers-in and a good mess life.

His SSVC came to an end and Dick returned to London in January 1976 to resume his career and re-join 562 Para Sqn where he stayed until 6th April 1978, when the “Para” bit was removed, and the squadron

Aubrey was born in Aldershot to Reginald Smith, serving in the Paras, and Diana, serving in the RN. Aubrey’s sporting talents surfaced at school, where he represented Derbyshire, the Midlands and England at hockey U16 level.

In 1979, he joined the RAOC at Deepcut and was soon excelling at sport: going on to represent Corps, Army and Combined Services at hockey, and Corps and Army at squash. Aubrey met Pauline in 1983 at Stone.

They had Jason, Stefan and Jenny in their 27 years together. Aubrey’s UK postings included Ordnance Depot Donnington and the School of Ordnance. Notable BAOR postings included 3 and 5 Ordnance Battalions.

He was briefly in Hong Kong, where he captained the Combined Services hockey team. Life-long friends and teammates have observed that Aubrey was unquestionably an outstanding hockey player, whose only fault was to forget to pass to his team mates occasionally. He was also a talented soldier and tradesman and rose to the rank of WO1 as a supply controller.

Aubrey was appointed Conductor in 1998, whilst serving on the staff of 1 Armoured Division in Herford, Germany: an achievement of which he was most proud. Aubrey had

came part of 151 Tpt Regt RCT(V).

In April 1982 he assumed command of 263 Amb Sqn RCT (V). In November 1985 he was appointed 2IC 160 Tpt Regt RCT (V) and in November 1991 he was appointed CO. That appointment was curtailed in April 1993 when the regiment was disbanded. However, two years later, when the Regiment was reformed as 160 Tpt Regt RLC (V), Dick was offered command which he accepted, and Dick remained as CO until March 1997.

Dick left the TA in 2003 but then became the Commander of The Hampshire Cadet Force in the rank of Colonel until 2006 followed by Colonel of the ACF Selection Board until 2009.

Despite a major operation in 2017 and the medical difficulties that followed his cheerfulness in great adversity and his courage in facing his medical problems was an inspiration to all.

Dick approached all his ventures with verve and panache deploying his well-developed sense of humour to great effect and was held in high regard by all those who knew him. He is survived by Pippa, his wife, and his children Jo and Jamie.

deployed on operations to Northern Ireland, the Balkans twice, the Falklands and Afghanistan: a total of more than three years, for which he was awarded the Cumulative Campaign Service Medal.

He was commissioned in October 2000 and promoted Major in 2006, in which rank he retired in 2012. Aubrey had planned to join elder brother Glen in a family audiology business, but Glen died suddenly, and Aubrey had to start from nothing. True to his nature, he qualified in 2014 and launched Smith’s Hearing Care in Andover in 2018.

His business has helped hundreds of people, and his children hope to carry it on in his honour. Aubrey used business success to help sponsor local charities and, into retirement he remained an active supporter of the Conductors Guild. He was married a second time to Laureen, who accompanied him to Conductors events, but they separated and later divorced in 2023.

Aubrey also developed a passion for modern jive, and with his infectious exuberance, he brought a sense of fun to the local dance fraternity and beyond. He collapsed and died suddenly after his usual morning work-out. He will be sorely missed.

8 Colonel R M (Dick) Wilkinson TD 1st September 1946 – 25th March 2024

8 Major Aubrey William Smith

14th March 1962 –3rd July 2024

LAST POST

Alderdice - On 10 June 2024, Mr W AlderdiceRAOC

Allen - On 9 November 2023, Mr N F Allen RAOC

Baldwin - On 16 June 2024, Mr S P Baldwin RAOC

Bartlett - On 6 March 2024, Brig GE Bartlett MBE DL late RASC/RCT/RLC

Betts - On 30 July 2024, Mr R Betts RASC/RCT

Black - On 1 March 2024, Mr W Black RASC

Bridle - On 6 February 2024, Maj N J Bridle RAOC

Brown - On 2 May 2024, Mr W A BrownRAOC

Buxton - On 30 April 2024, Mr J Buxton RCT

Chambers - On 29 March 2024, Mr R ChambersRAOC

Chandler - On 8 July 2024, Mr A Chandler RASC/RCT

Churchward - On 25 July 2024, Mr CO Churchward RASC

Clark - On 13 June 2024, Maj D M Clark RAOC

Connolly - On 24 July 2024, Mrs G Connolly

Cooper - On 24 March 2024, Maj J Cooper RCT/RLC

Crickard - On 30 April 2024, Mr R CrickardRAOC

Crose - On 27 May 2024, Mr R CroseRAOC

Crosthwaite - On 19 April 2024, Capt JD Crosthwaite MBE RASC/RCT

Crowley - On 22 February 2024, Mr R Crowley RCT

Cunliffe - On 5 April 2024, Mr T J B Cunliffe MBE RAOC

Davis - On 5 March 2024, Mr K R Davis RAOC/AGC (SPS)

Duff - On 19 March 2024, Mr I Duff RCT/RLC

Dwane - On 1 March 2024, Mr DT Dwane RCT

Edmonds - On 13 June 2024, Mr GP Edmonds RCT

Elliott - On 4 June 2024, Col R Elliott late RAOC/RLC

Ennis - On 2 July 2024, Mr F Ennis RASC/RCT

Farmer - On 3 May 2024, Mr F Farmer RASC

Fennell - On 13 April 2024, Mr R J Fennell RAOC

Fulton - On 17 August 2023, Mr K Fulton RASC

Gooderham - On 16 April 2024, Lt Col PG Gooderham RASC/RCT/RAPC

Gravanar - On 23 May 2024, Mr D Gravanar RASC/RCT

Gray - On 20 May 2024, Mr R Gray RASC/RCT

Gray - On 21 June 2024, Mr T Gray RCT/RLC

Halsall - On 27 June 2024, Maj J L Halsall RAOC

Hammersley - On 6 March 2024, Mr C Hammersley RCT/RLC

Hawkes - On 3 April 2024, Mr G Hawkes RASC/RCT

Hoe - On 13 April 2024, Maj C E R Hoe RAOC

Jackson - On 17 March 2024, Mr FJ Jackson RCT

Jamison - On 16 March 2024, Mr B Jamison RCT

Jones - On 11 March 2024, Mr N Jones RCT

Jones - On 15 June 2024, Mr E C Jones RAOC

Kennard - On 26 May 2024, Mr R KennardRAOC

Keogh - On 1 March 2024, Mr F J Keogh RAOC

Kilnan - On 17 March 2024, Mr F Kilnan RAOC

Lake - On 19 December 2023, Mr V LakeRAOC

Leadbeter - On 17 June 2024, Mr D Leadbeter RCT

Lennon - On 22 May 2024, Mr J J Lennon RAOC

Lennox - On 13 May 2024, Mr LG Lennox RASC

Lewis - On 14 April 2024, Mr W Lewis ACC/RASC/RCT

Lowndes - On 2 August 2024, Col JFL Lowndes TD late RASC/RCT/RLC

MacNab - On 17 June 2024, Mr J MacNab RAOC

Markwick - On 24 June 2024, Maj WH Markwick TD RASC/RCT

Marshall - On 20 April 2024, Col WJ Marshall OBE late RASC/RCT

Matthews - On 23 July 2024, Mrs SM Matthews

May - On 29 April 2024, Maj PG May MBE

RASC/RCT/RLC

Mclaughlan - On 29 March 2024, Mr W McLaughlan RCT

McLoughlin - On 1 March 2024, Mr T McLoughlin

RASC/RCT

Napier - On 10 March 2024, Mr K Napier RCT

O’Flaherty - On 30 July 2024, Mr M O’Flaherty RCT

Parker - On 12 April 2024, Mr J Parker RAOC

Pickering - On 13 June 2024, Mr T Pickering BEM

RASC/RCT

Price - On 17 February 2024, Mr T Price RAOC

Purves - On 24 February 2024, Mr J Purves

RASC/RCT/RLC

Scott - On 6 June 2024, Mr K Scott RAOC

Seabury - On 14 June 2024, Mr F Seabury RASC

Shipley - On 8 July 2024, Mrs R Shipley

Smith - On 3 July 2024, Maj A W Smith RAOC/RLC

Steele -On 28 April 2024, Mr J Steele RAOC

Stott - On 9 June 2024, Mr N Stott RASC

Surridge - On 12 April 2024, Maj VEW Surridge RE/RCT

Tatham - On 10 April 2024, Maj JT Tatham RASC/RCT

Walcroft - On 13 May 2024, Maj E G Walcroft

RAOC/RLC

Ward - On 25 June 2024, Mr R WardRAOC

Webb - On 21 February 2024, Mr D F Webb RAOC

Welsh - On 24 May 2024, Mr JK Welsh RCT

Wenham - On 4 January 2024, Mr E Wenham RCT

Wilkinson - On 25 March 2024, Colonel RM

Wilkinson TD late RCT/RLC

Williamson - On 2 May 2024, Mr L F Williamson RAOC