RLC The Sustainer Spring 2019

Sustainer THE

Journal of The Royal Logistic Corps R SPRING 2019

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Sustainer THE

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

formed in 1993

Volume 27 No 1 R Spring 2019

27 43

58 72

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Contents 2 From the ranks The Corps SM explains why 2019 will be a year of change

7 New Year’s Honours New Year’s Honour’s List 2019 and 29 Regt accolades

8 Catterick selection RLC women break new ground

12 RLC winter sports All the action from Ex SKI RLC in Ruhpolding

14 Your career, your call Must read guidance from your career management teams

20 Trade focus A special focus on The RLC’s 16 trades

39 Ex WASHINGTON RECOVERY The annual marathon hosted by the Allied Forces Foundation (AFF)

8 41 Ex SEAHORSE CENTURY In recognition of the 100th anniversary of the end of WWI

45 Unit reports Major and minor unit news and updates

78 Sport A round-up of RLC running achievements

79 Obituaries In Memoriam…

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A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE An RHQ Perspective

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The Corps was proud to see so many of our number recognised in the New Year’s Honours List

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Welcome to the spring 2019 edition of The Sustainer. Firstly, I hope you all had a restful and relaxing festive break and feel refreshed and invigorated, ready to tackle head on another action-packed year.

This edition of The Sustainer is deliberately focussed on the vast range of opportunities open to soldiers in The RLC. We have 16 active trades, many of which have apprenticeship programmes as part of career development, which result in civilian aligned qualifications. There are inservice degree opportunities for all ranks and as a Corps we encourage continued professional development.

In this issue, there are 22 pages dedicated to trades, training and career matters. These are part of the offer and I commend you to read the updates provided by your respective Heads of Trade.

2019 promises to be another busy year, enabling us to clearly demonstrate The RLC's utility and agility. We will conclude the RLC25 celebrations at the Guildhall, London, at the end of Mar followed almost immediately by a Sqn from 10 QOGLR taking over public duties the third year in a row that the Corps has been asked to perform this commitment. We will then see 27 Regt deploy to Cyprus on Op TOSCA and there is likely to be another of our units replacing them in 2020.

The development of CSS to the new STRIKE Brigades continues. The merger, however, of 1 Regt RLC and 1 Bn REME has been delayed by up to 24 months. The amalgamation will take place closer to the move of the Bicester based personnel to Catterick, thus reducing the command challenges associated with significant dislocation of sub units.

We also await confirmation of The RLC regular regiment basing solution which could see a hub in the North (Catterick, Dishforth and Topcliff) and one in the south concentrated around South Cerney. It is likely that there will ultimately be at least three regiments in each location offering greater opportunities for stability and therefore retention.

Preparations for the move of the RHQ to Worthy Down continue and this year will also mark a change in the delivery of initial trade training.

25 Regt will move to Leconfield and deliver and develop an initial Logistic Foundation Course for soldiers joining the Corps.

We have started the year with impressive form in the sporting arena.

In the Alps we have seen 6 Regt win the coveted Princess Marina Cup and 1 Regt winning the SAS and Kentish Cup. In rugby, The Corps ladies’ team beat The REME to win the the Palestine Cup and the Inter-Corps League Final and The Corps mens’ team triumphed at the Army Cup to take the title of Army Champions.

The Ladies’ football team have made it to the Inter-Corps cup final.

Ex SKI RLC has just concluded with 27 Regt taking the overall honours.

This year saw every unit represented and an unprecedented number of personnel attending; the competition is the envy of the Army and 6 Regt must be commended for organising such an impressive event.

The Corps was proud to see so many of our number recognised in the New Year’s Honours List, details on page 7. Five new Conductors have been selected.They will receive their parchments from The Duke of Gloucester in early summer. We have also appointed the first female instructors from The RLC to serve at the Infantry Training Centre Catterick.

All superb achievements, highlighting the calibre of our people.

I’d like to finish with a mention about manning. Recruiting and nurturing the future of the Army and Corps remains our main effort. Early indications show the Army’s latest recruiting campaign, launched on 3 Jan 2019, attracted 100% greater applications than this time last year.

While The RLC remains 96% recruited and has increasing numbers applying to transfer to it, we cannot afford to be complacent. As was highlighted by the officer responsible for manpower inflow, Lt Gen Tyrone Urch CBE, in our winter 18 edition, recruiting is an army-wide responsibility and we look to those serving and our veterans to help spread positive messages about a career in the Army and specifically The RLC. Congratulations on an excellent start to 2019.

We Sustain C J Francis Colonel RLC

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FROM THE RANKS It may be spring; however, I would like to wish you all a very Happy New Year! I trust and hope everyone had a good rest and you enjoyed the festive season. 2019 is already shaping up to be an exciting and memorable year for the Corps.

As well as our continued support to operations and exercises, it will be a year of change.

Project Wellesley, the migration from Deepcut to Worthy Down, continues to develop. HQ DCLPA is well established in Worthy Down and the Postal and Courier and Equipment Repair courses are also operating in our new home. RHQ The RLC will move at the end of 2019.

With change, comes opportunity and whilst there may be a degree of uncertainty due to the pace of the rebasing plan, this headquarters will continue to deliver our usual Corps events. However, this year, we are taking to the road.

Some events will remain at Deepcut for 2019, such as the Officers’ Mess Cocktail Party and the RLC Sports Awards. But on 6 Jul 2019 Corps Open Day will move to the home of 29 Regt RLC, South Cerney and on 14 Sep 2019 The RLC Military Skills competition will take place at the home of 7 Regt RLC, in Cottesmore.

RHQ The RLC is confident that all events will be a success and we thank in advance, those units that have volunteered to assist with planning and execution.

CLM 19 will be released later this year. Please ensure you understand how it affects you and your career; ask your CoC if you are unsure.

Physical Employment Standards (PES) for GCC have now been introduced for the Infantry and Armoured Corps and research is now well underway for non-GCC. Whilst PES non-GCC is not due to be released until 2021, you should now be aware that WEF 31 Mar 2019 the only test available to the RLC is the AFT. The PFA is to be replaced with the Soldier Conditioning Review

(SCR) as at 1 Apr 2019. Your RAPTC QMSIs, SSIs and PTIs, can give you more information, but do not panic.

The SCR is exactly what it says on the tin – a review. It is about gathering statistics, to give you the individual, a better understanding of where you need to improve your fitness. SCR will eventually become a test standard; however, this is not likely to happen prior to the release of PES Non-GCC in 2021.

So far, this year, our winter sports ninjas have been battling out at various competitions in colder climates and as you read on you will learn of their successes and continued dominance. Did you know the Corps takes part in the following Winter Sports: Snowboard, Nordic, Downhill, Telemark, Ski Touring and Bobsleigh, to name but a few – Why not try out for next season? The boxers are formed up in full time training ready to go toe-to-toe with their opponents at regimental level, with success there leading to the Corps or even Army boxing finals – Have you got the courage to step into the ring? Rugby Union is nearing the end of the season and by the time you read this article we will know the outcomes. However, what I can say, is that our Ladies team won the Palestine Cup against the REME with absolute conviction, crowning them as Inter-Corps Champions – simply outstanding!

We welcome five new Conductors to the Corps so congratulations to WO1 (Cdr) K Bennett, WO1 (Cdr) J Davies,WO1 (Cdr) K Arnott,WO1 (Cdr) N Scott and WO1 (Cdr) S Griffiths – well done!

At the end of 2018 The RLC was crowned Army Champions in 25 sporting events be that individual or team success.We wish you all the best in defending those titles. Before I sign off, I would like to thank you all for your continued efforts and support. Good luck in all you strive to achieve in 2019.

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Some events will remain at Deepcut for 2019, such as the Officers’ Mess Cocktail Party and the RLC Sports Awards

WO1 P S Broom Corps Sergeant Major RLC

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THE SUSTAINER | DEFENCE DIGEST

GLOBAL ADVANCE A snapshot of The RLC across the world

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8 KENYA

7 Regt

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Propelling into the new year, 7 Regt has hit the ground running with 9 Sqn deploying to Kenya on ASKARI STORM 1/19 in support of 1LANCS Battlegroup. 617 Sqn is delivering a PNCO Cadre and 68 Sqn is running a regimental LFTT package.

CANADA

10QOGLR

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GERMANY

156 Regt

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SLOVENIA Feb 19 will see 12 personnel deploy on Ex KHUKURI CHIL in Germany having returned from several deployments including Ex JEBEL SAHARA in Morocco and Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 in Oman.

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158 Regt

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In the early part of 2019, 158 Regt’s focus on training will change to enhance BCS skills in preparation for the Regt’s annual exercise in Slovenia.

The new year has begun with the deployment of 19 Logistic Supply Specialists to BATUS, Canada on Ex PRAIRIE PHOENIX. Personnel from 1 Squadron QOGLR, 27 RLC and 9 RLC are working on the preparation and rehabilitation of vehicles after the winter training period.

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DEFENCE DIGEST | THE SUSTAINER

MALI

JHSS

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Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) has deployed personnel to Norway in support of Ex CLOCKWORK and a new team will deploy to Mali in support of the RAF Chinook Force.

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MIDDLE EAST

CYPRUS

162 Regt

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2019 has so far seen 162 Regt soldiers conducting pre-deployment training in preparation for Operations in the Middle East and regular attachments to 29 Regt RLC to conduct trade specific tasks in the JAMC and further afield.

COSU

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Ammo Troop ATs remain on permanent standby for EOD incidents on island, with Log Specs, Drivers and Movement Controllers all match the operational requirement across the Sovereign Base Areas.

USA

ARRC

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The Battalion is now concentrating on ensuring that it is fully prepared for deployment to the US for Ex RATTLESNAKE in 2019, with training already underway. www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

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EDITOR’S NOTE Love them or hate them, the Army’s latest recruiting adverts and videos have certainly caught people’s attention. A video update, published in Feb, from Commander Home Command, Lt Gen Tyrone Urch CBE, said that applications to join the Army in the first three weeks of Jan were 9,700 compared with 5,000 in Dec 2018. On the day of the controversial poster launch, the Army Jobs website received over 170,000 unique hits.

The generations the Army and The RLC are targeting to recruit and have within our ranks today, live online.

Therefore, the way we present ourselves and communicate our messages online, through websites and on social media, is massively important.

In summer 2018, RHQ The RLC conducted a review of the Corps’ communication strategy. One of the many things identified, was an urgent need to reflect the key aims of the Army’s digital strategy and our own communications strategy, through The RLC’s website: www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk To achieve this, last autumn it was decided to redevelop the website from the ground up. Recruitment and retention will be the primary focus. The new home page, will make a bold statement using video and great images saying we are The RLC and this is what we do.

Throughout the new website, the call to action will be ‘Join Us’. The landing pages will take the viewer on a journey around the Corps today and the careers within it.

There will be news, information pages and an image gallery. There will be dedicated sports and adventure training pages and a support area will provide information about the RLC Association Trust, the Forming Corps Associations, Benevolence and WIS. The main focus on our heritage will be within an area for The RLC Museum.

The Corps today area, will have eye-catching navigation to our regular and reserve units’ pages on the Army website. There will be pages for The RLC Association, The RLC Foundation and a page for our affiliated cadet units.

The careers area will provide detailed information on soldier and officer career paths, both regular and reserve: Including a page for each trade, how to re-join, re-trade or transfer and there will be a page about professional development.

Thanks to our photographer trade, we have a wealth of great imagery and video and its use will be maximised throughout the new website.

The project is now well underway and the team has had input to agree its base architecture from around 20 stakeholders. Once it is built we will invite wider user testing. The aim is to launch the new website in summer 2019.

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.

purpose of sending you the magazine. The mailing data is treated in the strictest confidence, is password protected, is only shared with our printer and is deleted after each use. If any serving RLC personnel have concerns with regards to the storage and use of their personal data they should contact RHQ The RLC’s Data Protection Officer, Maj R Barrett. Email: Richard.Barrett862@mod.gov.uk Members of the Associations should contact RHQ The RLC’s Personal Information Risk Manager, Shelley Whittaker. Email: Shelley.Whittaker650@mod.gov.uk

Editorial Staff Editor: Peter Shakespeare Assistant Editor: Miss Anne-Marie Causer BA (Hons) Email: rlcsustainer@gmail.com Graphic Design: David Blake Copy deadlines for THE SUSTAINER: 10 Apr 2019, 5 Jul 2019, 1 Oct 2019, 10 Jan 2020 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!

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

Photographs: The Editor accepts photographs for publication on the understanding that those submitting them have, where required by data protection legislation, obtained consent to publication from those depicted. Anyone who believes this is not the case or has a DPA related concern should contact the Editor. peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Advertising: There is normally no space for commercial advertising, please contact the Editor.

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

Publisher: The Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps, Dettingen House, The Princess Royal Barracks, Deepcut, CAMBERLEY, Surrey GU16 6RW. Email: peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Tel: +44 (0) 7901 676309

© 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.

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

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.

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

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© Cartoons are copyright.

Front Cover: A 16 AASR Chef preparing a meal on Ex JOINT CATERER. Photographer: Sgt Rupert Frere RLC

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Honours and Awards

A belter of a quarter for promotion

8 LCpl Chapman and FS Swallow receive their Conductors’ Coins from WO1 (Cdr) Ladell

29 Regiment RLC has had an excellent quarter for awards and promotions to the highest levels of professionalism.

Some of the notable mentions go to WO1 Marc Richardson, who was made an MBE in the New Year's Honours List 2019. Also, Capt Williams and Cpl Jones have both received GOC FTC Commendations.

In addition, Staff Sergeants, Blinco, Brookman, Granger, Heard, Stone and Whiting have been selected for promotion to Warrant Officer Class Two. Trade recognition Recently a number of 29 Regt personnel attended a Movement Controller Working Group, held at HQ Fd Army.

The aim of the WG was to provide a formal trade update and expand situational awareness on the current and wider Defence Movement Control issues and initiatives.

During the WG,WO1 (Cdr) Ladell made an announcement to say that LCpl Chapman and FS Swallow were to receive his Conductor’s Coin.The Conductor’s coin is an adhoc award that can be given to any serving soldier within the RLC (below the rank of WO1) who has performed above and beyond that expected of their position.

New Year's Honours List 2019 Military Division As Members (MBE) Maj Jonathan Christopher CORBETT MBE The Royal Logistic Corps Maj Alan Patrick TINDALE MBE The Royal Logistic Corps Maj (now Acting Lieutenant Colonel) Caroline Ruth WADE MBE The Royal Logistic Corps Capt James Anthony WADSWORTH, CGC, MBE The Royal Logistic Corps WO1 Gareth David Wolf PRYOR MBE The Royal Logistic Corps WO1 Marc David RICHARDSON MBE The Royal Logistic Corps Queen’s Volunteer Reserves Medal (QVRM) Maj Iain McLean MACDONALD,VR, QVRM The Royal Logistic Corps, Army Reserve WO2 Michael James GUEST,VR, QVRM The Royal Logistic Corps, Army Reserve

LCpl Chapman has worked tirelessly for the last 12 months including deployments to Iraq, Belize, USA, and many more. The deployment to Iraq was of particular significance, establishing the Mov Con post in a kinetic theatre. In addition to completing numerous deployments, LCpl Chapman has always been ready for the next task.

Volunteering continuously, assisting the unit, when given little notice and maintaining a great positive attitude which far exceeds the expectation of a Movement Controller Class 2.

FS Swallow has been a stalwart in the JAMC, using his vast experience and knowledge to ease over the many complexities that can be acquired through the multiservice mounting process. He receives this Coin by special distinction, as it is only normally awarded to RLC soldiers.

However, FS Swallow’s dedication and commitment has been recognised by his chain of command and the CMWO, and therefore he thoroughly deserves this award.

RLC Women’s Rugby The RLC Women’s Rugby team has finished the 2018/19 rugby season as Corps Champions and Palestine Cup Winners.

Under a new Head Coach, Sgt Martyn Walters (First Fusiliers), the squad has flourished; he has brought professionalism, enthusiasm and excitement back to squad.

This season has seen nine squad members selected for the Army Women’s As, five for the Army Women’s Senior Squad and two for UK Armed Forces. This squad has gone from strength to strength, finishing second place in the league last season to being deserving winners this season,

8 Team Captain LCpl Becky Wilson pictured with the trophies

for the first time in over seven years. RLC(W) are always recruiting for future training and matches. Any female of any ability is welcome to join us. Please contact us via our Facebook page RLC Women’s Rugby @RLCWRUFC

STOP PRESS: Congratulations to 9 Regt's male team who won the Army Cup 16-15 beating the Royal Welsh www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

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THE SUSTAINER | INFANTRY TRAINING CENTRE CATTERICK

RLC women break new ground Three RLC service women have been selected for key roles at the Infantry Training Centre (ITC) Catterick. Major Jacquie Barlow moves from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) to ITC as a company commander.

Capt Gemma Pearson moves from her role as Ops Officer 68 Sqn in 7 Regt RLC to take over as Adjutant ITC Support Battalion and SSgt Sheridan Lucas is promoted to WO2 and will become Company Sergeant Major (CSM) of Peninsular (Training) Company in June.

The trio will be among the first servicewomen to hold key positions at ITC Catterick and the move follows the announcement on 25 Oct 2018, by Defence Secretary,The Rt. Hon Gavin Williamson MP, that all branches of the Army were open to women, enabling female officers and soldiers to undertake close combat roles alongside men in the special forces, infantry and the Armoured Corps.

8 Capt Pearson

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With women anticipated to be among the recruit intakes at ITC going forward, there is a clear need for females to be on the DS

SSgt Lucas Major Barlow and SSgt Lucas both have several years of top level military training experience, between them. Prior to her current role instructing LE officers at RMAS, sub 3hrs 30min marathon runner and talented Nordic skier, Major Barlow, worked at 25 (Training) Regt RLC. SSgt Lucas was a Platoon Staff Sergeant, instructing DE officer cadets at RMAS and is currently an instructor at the Army Staff Leadership School, Pirbright. All three women were selected for their roles at ITC, because of their outstanding ability and operational experience.

ITC Catterick delivers Phase One training to all the Army’s infantry soldiers and runs four versions of the Combat Infantryman's Course: Line Infantry, Foot Guards, Para and Gurkha.The ITC Support Battalion is 8

8 SSgt Lucas

responsible for providing management control and training support to the two infantry training battalions based at Catterick.

SSgt Lucas says:“With women anticipated to be among the recruit intakes at ITC going forward, there is a clear need for females to be on the DS. My role as a training company CSM will be exactly the same as my male equivalents, but I will also be there to provide assurance to the

female recruits. As women have not completed any of the advanced infantry training courses, such as Senior Brecon, yet; the training will be delivered by the all-male platoon instructors. But I expect some serving female soldiers will transfer into the infantry over the coming months, so this could change over time. But with my experience gained at RMAS, I will certainly be closely involved on the drill square and on exercises.”

Capt Pearson, who is a member of the female Army rugby and netball teams, adds:“This is a great opportunity for all of us and I am very proud and excited to have been selected to serve on the staff at ITC Catterick.We are the trail blazers and our postings are a fantastic reflection on the breadth of experience contained within our Corps and the regard in which our professionalism is held.”

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This is a great opportunity for all of us and I am very proud and excited to have been selected to serve on the staff at ITC Catterick. We are the trail blazers and our postings are a fantastic reflection on the breadth of experience contained within our Corps and the regard in which our professionalism is held

Capt Pearson

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

27 Regt boxer packs a punch

Credit: Team Nihell

27 Regiment RLC's talented boxer, LCpl Chez Nihell, made his professional debut at London's O2 Arena on Saturday 23 Feb 19 winning 39-37 on points against opponent Kent Kauppinen (2-8).

The Army Sportsman of the Year 2018 from Aldershot fought his opponent over four three-minute rounds at the cruiserweight limit.

The winning team outpointed 'The Hammerhorn' three rounds to one on the DeGale - Eubank Jr undercard.

The Isle of Wight-born boxer told British Boxing News post-fight, "What a night! What an experience for my debut, it was unreal.”

"Shout out to my opponent Kent Kauppinen a dangerous opponent for my first fight.The last round, he really brought the fight, it was a good intro to the pro ranks. No push overs.

Starting off as we mean to carry on!”

8 27 Regt LCpl Chez Nihell, won his professional debut at London's O2 Arena, and pictured top with his wife Cpl Alanna Nihell

Husband and wife team LCpl Chez Nihell, 31, a member of 27 Regt, has been part of the Army Elite Boxing set-up since 2013. He unified English titles as an amateur and won the Armed Forces regional championships six years in a row and the Haringey Box Cup from 2015-2018 at two different weights.

His wife Cpl Alanna Nihell is also a serving soldier with 27 Regt as well as being a multiple amateur boxing national champion. She has previously won three ABA lightweight titles, a Commonwealth Games bronze medal in 2014 and was the first female ever to captain the Army Elite Boxing Team.

"You can't compare the feeling, boxing is a raw sport, you either win where you're on top of the world or you lose and you feel like you're down in the gutter,” said Chez.

“In all honesty I thought it would take me a couple of years to work up to a show like this so the fact I had my debut on a packed card at the O2 is awesome."

ARMY FENCING CHAMPIONSHIPS The 2019 Army Fencing Championships will be held at Fox Gymnasium, Army School of Physical Training, Aldershot from Mon 1 – Fri 5 Apr 2019.

The Championship is the core event for fencing across the Army. It provides an opportunity to compete across a wide range of abilities and to further develop individual fencing ability to set conditions for success at the Inter-Service Fencing Competition and civilian Open events.

A two-day Pre-Performance Course will precede the competition on Mon 1 and Tue 2 Apr. Also, a Refereeing Course will take place from Tue 2 – Fri 5 Apr. The refereeing course will qualify personnel in Level 1 or Level 2 foil, sabre and epee refereeing qualifications.

Entry fees for the whole week to include the training and the competitions is £30 and individuals can approach their various PRI/Subs to offset the cost.

For more information and to enter contact Maj JJ Wilson

8 Sgt Shaine Ryland-Gasher in action (left)

Tel (Mil): 94229 5309 Tel (Civ): 07889 292044 Email (Mil): jennifer.wilson874@mod.gov.uk

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THE SUSTAINER | NEWS A joint procurement and logistic short term training team (STTT) has recently deployed to advise the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF). Maj Doug Ingram (DCOS 7 Bde), Capt Gordon Bruce (6 Regt RLC) and WO1 (ASM) Chris Hepburn REME (6 Regt RLC) set out on an epic journey to Freetown, in support of the International Security Advisory Team (ISAT).

The work streams the team decided to follow were: RSLAF sustainment (Log, Med, ES, G1), equipment table, equipment care, future procurement and accounting and logistic procedures.The team needed to gather a lot of information in a short period of time so, started with meetings at the RSLAF MOD with the CDS, ACDS Sup/Log and at JFC with the GOC.The Sierra Leone officers were very supportive of the proposed work streams to be scrutinised.

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The team visited 4 Infantry Brigade, which has its HQ in Teko Barracks (Makeni) and is responsible for the North and South-East of the country. This was to look at the procedures at the FSG in support of the battalions

6 Regiment RLC provides advisors to Sierra Leone

The UK team took time to conduct a deep dive into procedures at the Joint Logistic Unit (JLU), Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (EME) and the Joint Medical Unit (JMU). This helped inform the recommendations that were to be passed to the CDS once completed. The team visited 4 Infantry Brigade, which has its HQ in Teko Barracks (Makeni) and is responsible for the North and South-East of the country. This was to look at the procedures at the FSG in support of the battalions.

Week two saw the team consolidate all the information gathered working through the possible recommendations and preparing for the G4 study day. The study day was a great success with over 30 DCOS and QMs from across the RSLAF in attendance. All recommendations written up and the presentation complete, the team briefed the CDS and his generals on the recommendations.

The team returns to Sierra Leone for a follow up visit soon.

WELFARE SNCO POPS INTO NO. 10 In Oct 2018, Sgt Dave Heron MBE was invited to attend No 10 Downing Street by the Prime Minister, as part of the celebrations for Black History Month. The reception marked the UN International Decade for people of African descent. Sgt Heron had the opportunity to discuss the issues surrounding Foreign and Commonwealth soldiers’ visa and immigration issues with the Home Secretary.

In 2015, Sgt Heron was invited to be one of the founding members of the Army BAME network, as its welfare representative. This reflected

his years of experience working with the Chain of Command and soldiers, dealing with complex issues, that can sometimes come to the forefront. As part of the Army BAME network, Sgt Heron has been active in attending meetings, workshops and as part of his job role delivers welfare briefs to the JNCO, SNCO,WO's career leadership management courses and the Troop Commanders’ course.

These briefs play a vital role in finding out what issues our leaders are facing and dealing with on a daily basis and allows for information to be fed back into the network to enable leaders to support their soldiers.

CORRECTION: In the Winter 18 edition article, “Chattanooga Choo Choo”, we quoted former RLC railwayman WO2 Adie Robinson of 157 Regt RLC. We misspelt his name and offer our apologies.

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER 8 SSgt Dean Boys receiving The RLC Squash Open Champion trophy

RLC Squash Individual and Inter Unit Championships 2018 The RLC Squash Championships were held 30 Oct – 1 Nov 2018 at Winchester Racquets and Fitness Club,Winchester. Competition entries were slightly down due to commitments however over 200 matches, were enjoyed by all who attended. In total, 56 players entered across five categories: Open, Closed/Novice, Ladies,Veterans and Team. A plate competition was run for those players who were knocked out in the early rounds of the Open and Closed competitions.

RLC Squash Championships Results Open: Winner - SSgt Dean Boys Runner Up - Maj Chris O’Brien Closed: Winner - LCpl Dhiraj Rai Runner Up - LCpl Jitang Jimi Ladies: Winner - Sgt Ammy Whitehead Runner Up - SSgt Carlie Johnson Veterans: Winner - WO2 Glen Scarah Runner Up - WO2 Steve Brown Team: Winner - Army HQ

Runner Up - 10 QOGLR Plate: Winner - Maj Scott Rheeder Runner Up - Maj Nick Hegarty Army Inter Corps Squash Championships 2018 Despite arriving at this prestigious event without four selected Corps players and only two reserves, the

players produced some outstanding squash and better than expected results. The RLC A Team, played some tough matches and after a nail biting final match versus the RE A Team, managed to scrape a 3-2 win to secure the runner up spot in Division 1 of Army squash. An incredible achievement. Special mention also goes to The RLC B Team who despite being short on players and experience, managed to consolidate in Division 2 and remain safe for another year. Again, some excellent individual performances and two new players “blooded” at the highest level of Corps and Army Squash. Well done all!

Anyone interested in playing RLC squash should contact the secretary on 94731 2065 for further information.

THE RLC SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS

SUSTAINING OPERATIONS GLOBALLY

If you want proof that The RLC truly sustains operations in EVERY corner of the globe...read on.

In early Jan 19, RLC Air Despatchers took part in Ex AUSTRAL ENDURANCE, successfully completing numerous Air Drop sorties delivering

aviation fuel to the British Antartic Survey group in Antartica.This will enable it to continue to study and explore uncharted territory.Thanks to WO1 Hatcher for this brilliant image.

One way to draw the RLC25 celebrations to a spectacular close.

This year 17 Port and Maritime Regiment hosted The RLC Swimming Championships at Aldershot Garrison. It was open to both regular and reserve with nine regiments being represented across the Corps with more than 100 participants of various ages.

The event covered 12 different races including two 4x50m mixed relays and a fierce water polo tournament to finish. The day was highly competitive with last year’s winners 9 Regt coming second by just one point and 17 & 6 Regt achieving equal points.

The overall winners this year was a deserved 27 Regt, who will now look to defend this year’s trophies next year at what is anticipated to be another well supported and challenging competition.

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11

THE SUSTAINER | RLC WINTER SPORTS

SSgt Scott Cassidy of 154 Regt on the Sprint Race

Mr David Finnigan setting off on an Alpine race, with Arturius sponsorship in the background

Pre Race GS training

27 Regt Ladies Nordic Team winning overall Female Nordic Winners

Ex SKI RLC 2019 Set against a backdrop of high mountains and a deep valley, Ruhpolding has been a holiday destination for over fifty years and is famous for its spas and winter sports. The biathlon track has hosted the 1979, 1985, 1996 and 2012 Biathlon World Championships.

The proximity to both Nordic langlaufs and Alpine slopes gives the perfect advantage for winter competitions; this event marks the 21st year SKI RLC has been held here.

2019 marks the first year the competition has been hosted by 6 Regiment RLC. The aim of the event is, “To bring together soldiers and officers from both the regulars and reserves in a combined Alpine and Nordic ski competition” and, with 33 units, both regular and reserve, and over 12

400 competitors from both Alpine and Nordic disciplines, the competition achieves just that.

The event is scheduled over eleven days, starting with registration on the initial Sunday, running through five races for both the Nordic teams and the Alpine teams; the disciplines are then concluded with the Patrol Race for the Nordic teams and Super G for the Alpine teams.

“SKI RLC is a taster for those who are new to skiing”, says Sgt Ben Woolley, from the 6 Regt Corps Team, who is an enduring face on the Nordic scene. “It’s an opportunity for old timers to give back by teaching technique and the skills required to ski successfully.”

“When looking for potential in new Nordic skiers, there are always the obvious characteristics; if you’re physically fit and robust, you will be

able to endure the more challenging races. Those who can adapt to different sports will be more likely to succeed, as they can quickly pick up the new movements required for the two disciplines [skate or classic].

What we really look for, though, when choosing someone to develop, is motivation. The results show when people want to be here!”

The races The first race saw 196 skiers complete either a 7.5km sprint for males, or 5km for females, with 62 novices out of 150 male skiers and 14 novices out 46 female skiers. Pte Harry Sprake, from 17 Port & Maritime Regiment and the 1st junior male in the 7.5km, says, “Nordic skiing takes a lot of courage; you have to dedicate yourself physically but also mentally to get round a 7.5km course, especially as novice.”

A typical novice skier, his training began before Christmas, before competing in both the Divisional and Army Championships in Jan and the beginning of Feb. SKI RLC then gave him the opportunity to

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RLC WINTER SPORTS | THE SUSTAINER

Slalom Ski action

LCpl Justin Yeung 167 Regt RLC on the 15km Classic Race against Pte Joeseph HALE 29 Regt RLC

LCpl Toby Spibey 4 Regt RLC battles against LCpl Jack Webb from 9 Regt RLC

Pte Seb Wilson 6 Regt Corps Alpine Team

start winning prizes after a season of dedicated training.

Perhaps the most anticipated race for the Nordic skiers is the Patrol Race, on the penultimate day of the event. Teams must endure a gruelling 20km of Classic skiing, a route which is broken by Command Tasks and ranges. How well the teams perform on the Command Tasks, or shoot on the ranges, will either gain or lose them time which could mean the difference between 1st or 2nd place. For this, 6 Regt came in 1st for the female team and 1 Regt won the male trophy.

Alpine Skiing Alpine skiing, in contrast to Nordic, is all about the speed, risk and adrenaline rush. “Alpine skiing and racing helps people increase their comfort zone by doing something that will definitely scare them,” said Sgt Liam Markham, 27 Regt. He is another great skier passing his skills on to the new novices. “Every time you go down the runs here, you become less afraid, which increases your comfort zone making you a more adaptable individual.”

Pte James Travis, of 6 Regt B Team from the Alpine discipline, has enjoyed his second season of SKI RLC and says, “Coming back has helped me develop my slalom technique and not being in the Novice category has made me work harder, against better competition. I really enjoy the Super G Race and the speed and adrenaline you get from the big jump. I’ll definitely return next season, as I aim to qualify to race in the Army Champs in the near future.”

President’s Race On the final day, the competition itself is concluded with the President’s Race, which offers Alpine skiers the opportunity to try Nordic and for visiting personnel to join the RLC WSA President, Brig Steve Shirley, in a 5km freetechnique race.

This year, there were 17 competing Commanding Officers who were taking part in the race, and nearly 200 competitors overall.

Traditionally fancy dress, it is an opportunity for all competitors and enablers of SKI RLC to meet at the

Chiemgau Arena before the final evening and heading off home the next day.

The prize giving, held on the final evening of the event and after the President’s Race, saw individuals and teams rewarded for their hard work. One of the most important prizes of the event is the Stuart Young Memorial Award, which is awarded to the most promising juniors.

This year it was won by Pte Harry Sprake and Pte Heather Phillips (1 Regt). 27 Regt went home with the best female team for the Nordic discipline; 1 Regt team, able to race in SKI RLC for the first time, came in with the prize as the top male team.

154 Regt went home with the prize for top alpine team. Overall, the best team was awarded to 27 Regt, which was exceptionally strong in the team Alpine events.

A highly successful event to conclude the 2019 season, SKI RLC will commence again in Feb 2020, where the enabling team can look forward to introducing yet more individuals to the fantastic snow sports on offer.

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13

THE SUSTAINER | CAREER MANAGEMENT

YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL Career management team RLC soldiers - SO1: Lt Col Stewart SO2: Maj Brown WO1: WO1 Adams

DIDyouKNOW

A message from the SO1 Soldiers Welcome to the new look soldiers’ and officers’ career management (CM) pages.

Having conducted several unit visits late in 2018, it is clear, that while there is a good deal of knowledge about career management across the Corps, there is a thirst for knowledge as to opportunities available; be it serving at regimental duty, ARITC (formerly ARTD and recruiting group) assignments, the chance to re-trade, the roll-out of CLM 19, the No. 4, 5 & 7 boards, Op tour vacancies…the list is endless.

While this is too much for one edition, we aim to provide updates on all of the above over the coming year. Hopefully you will enjoy the new layout, if you have comments or any requests that we cover certain CM subjects please contact one of the staff listed here. Happy reading and we hope you find the information useful.

8 Did you know?

MS Web is the tool used by your career managers at APC and is available to anyone with access to a MODNet terminal. Here you can SPRING 2019 – Key Dates Soldiers Key Dates

Event

The RLC automatically offers VEng (Full) to all substantive Cpls and above who are MFD or MLD. See your RCMO for an AFB 6848D to apply! access all the Promotion Board results and the jobs lists, which cover a range of job opportunities both within the Corps and across Defence. YOU can access all the rules and regulations that your Chain of Command must follow to correctly manage your careers, including how the SJAR is to be written. The below SharePoint address will take you to the MS Web: https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/ teams/2678/SitePages/Home.aspx 8 Job Lists – No7 Board For those looking for opportunities a little out of the ordinary, the jobs lists on MS Web may hold the job for you. Just scroll down to the Soldiers’ section and open the No7 E1/E2 OCE Soldiers page and search for an “E1-RLC” or “E2” job.

The Job Spec will be in blue. One click here will show you the requirements to fill the post. The LTA shows you when the job should be filled by, so if you’re interested in Action

19-21 Mar

Sgt – SSgt Board sits

No action

31 Mar

LCpl SJAR due

LCpls, if you haven’t had your SJAR see your CoC!

31 Mar

Cpl SJAR in to APC

Cpls, get on JPA, has your SJAR been finalised?

4 Apr

SSgt board results

Find the results on MS Web, under board proceedings

13-17 May

Cpl – Sgt Board sits

No action

31 May

Pte SJAR due

Ptes, have you had your SJAR? If not, see LCpl action above

1 Jun

LCpl SJAR in to APC

LCpls, get on JPA, has your SJAR been finalised?

4 Jun

Unit Visit – 7 Regt

All Ranks – Do you want to hear the APC brief and meet your career managers? Get your FMT 1000 in and get to one of these locations, it’s open to all.

5 Jun

Unit Visit – DST

6 Jun

Unit Visit – 6 Regt

6 Jun

Sgts board results

14

Find the results on MS Web, under board proceedings.

a job that you fit the bill for, take the information to your RCMO who will bid to the SO2 RLC Soldiers to run you to the board.

8 Re-trading and Re-joining This issue of The Sustainer focuses on all the trades of The RLC and highlights the breadth of capability we provide to wider Defence Manning. More importantly retention across the Corps is good and the envy of the other career management branches at APC. At APC, we would rather see a dis-satisfied soldier apply to retrade, rather than get on JPA and sign off! The grass is not always greener on the other side. The Corps is willing to take quality individuals from any cap badge as re-trades, so if your mate from another cap badge is considering the outside this opportunity equally applies to them! The RLC Corps Instructions, Section H18, details corps policy and the process of r e-trading. Just type in the following to your SharePoint search bar; https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/ teams/11996/CorpsInstructions/ Shared%20Documents/008_Corps _Instructions_H_Series.pdf The Corps Instruction mirrors the Regular Army Transfer Policy at the following DIN; 2014DIN01-014.

Both the DIN and the Corps Instruction show you ‘the HOW’ and hopefully, if you’re in the market to re-trade, this Sustainer will highlight our trades, show you ‘the WHY’; as the trades sell themselves! What about ‘the

DIDyouKNOW The following trades are dual trades with the Driver trade: Dvr Comm Spec (Pte – Cpl only) Air Dispatch, VSS, DTTO Soldiers in these trades may be selected for promotion in the Driver trade, if they hold the Driver qualifications for the next rank and score higher than the lowest scoring driver

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CAREER MANAGEMENT | THE SUSTAINER WHERE’? Well the place to go is MS Web and the Official Army Vacancies List (OAVL). The OAVL lists all the vacancies, by cap badge, trade and rank across the whole army. This will inform you of the criteria required by each trade and you can see if you fit the bill.

Once again role information for the trade is highlighted blue and is a link you can click to inform you further on the roles and responsibilities of that trade.

Re-joiners are another avenue we can pursue to boost our numbers and of course YOU are our biggest advertisement for the Corps. DIN 2017DIN01-105, highlights the Regular Army Soldier re-join Policy.

Once again, your mates on the outside, who fancy getting back in, can access the OAVL via the British Army recruitment website. Here at APC we regularly hold boards to rerecruit former service personnel to the Regular Army, be it from civvy street or the Reserve Forces.

DIDyouKNOW PET Ops – Sick of waiting for someone to leave to get promoted? Why not take one of the opportunities that exist for roles out of trade while you wait?

Get your RCMO to speak to your career manager about the variety of roles in and out of trade.

DIDyouKNOW The OAVL currently advertises Vacancies across 13 RLC trades, Pte-WO2.

Find it on the MS Web.

OFFICER CAREERS APC RLC Officers Section SO1: Lt Col Collins The Officer’s Section has another comprehensive year of career management ahead including: preparation and running of the Boards as listed below. Changes in personalities this year will see Maj Jo Marples take over as the Captains’ desk officer in mid-March and Lt Col Jo McCord is leaving us and the Regular Army, with Lt Col Den Howard due to ‘take the reins’ for the LE community in July.

We are all looking forward to seeing many of you at the unit visits this year, with a week in late May and a second week mid July.

The first week will start in the north in the Catterick area, moving to York and then Grantham finishing in London at Regent’s Park and Northwood. The second week will start at Bicester, moving to South Cerney, Bulford, Marchwood and Aldershot. The intent is to have a separate bespoke visit to Abbeywood later in the year.

Key Dates for the next four months

Key Dates

Event

Action

14-17 May

IG2 Board

Follow direction on receipt of the Calling Notice from your CM.

20-24 May

Unit Visits (North)

Wait out for the Calling Notice from your formation HQ and then book the date with interview.

5-6 Jun

Summer No 4 Appt Board

Follow direction on receipt of the Calling Notice from your CM.

10-12 Jun

LEOCAB

Follow instructions in 2018 DIN 01-022, DEC 2018

17-19 Jun

Summer No 5 Gr 2 Appt Board

Complete updated Job Specs and PPPs as stated from CM and keep your eye on updated jobs list.

8-10 Jul

LEOCAB

Follow instructions in 2018 DIN 01-022, DEC 2018

15-19 Jul

Unit Visits (South)

Wait out for the Calling Notice from your formation HQ and then book the date with interview.

23-24 Jul

No 2 Appointing Board

Follow direction on receipt of the Calling Notice from your CM.

8 Aug

PTC Board

Calling notice will be distributed Easter 2019. Ensure that all MS is at the APC well ahead of the board date.

9 Aug

SCRD Appointing Board

Calling notice will be distributed Easter 2019. Ensure that all MS is at the APC well ahead of the board date.

MS Terminology and Updates: A regular bulletin on various departments and terminology within the APC may assist you in understanding different aspects of career management and finding your way around the MS Web. For this edition, here is a quick overview on officer boarding.

8 CM General Staff. Headed by a full Colonel, this department runs the career management for all full Colonels (OF5) and Brigadiers (OF6). The department provides the Secretariat for promotion boards to Colonel (Blue List) and Brigadier (Green List).

8 CM Ops. Also, headed by a Colonel, CM Ops has several departments, which for boarding purposes includes the Demand/Career Field Managers (CFM), the No 4 and No 5 Board.

8 Demand/CFM. The Demand and CFMs collectively manage the Lieutenant Colonel (OF4), Major (OF3) and Captain (OF2) liabilities. They can advise on post availability, rotation and are responsible for liaising with the E2 (non-cap-badge specific) chain of the command in these posts.

8 MS4. This department within CM Ops is headed by an SO1 and runs No 4-boarding activity for the appointment for all Regular and Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonels (OF4). The No 4 Board provides the Secretariat for the No 4 Board promotion to Lieutenant Colonel (Pink List) and for the Command Board.

8 MS5. This department also within CM Ops, is headed by an SO1 and focuses on the appointing of Grade 2 (Majors, OF3) and Grade 3 (Captains, OF2) staff appointments. There are three Grade 2 appointments boards each year (Spring, Summer and Winter) and two Grade 3 appointments boards (February and September). MS5 provide the Secretariat for the annual promotion board to Major (Beige List) and confirms all appointing at Sub Unit and Subsequent Command.

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15

THE SUSTAINER | DSL

The Defence School of Logistics Commandant: Colonel John Atkins In 2019, the Defence School of Logistics has started to deliver Postal and Courier and Petroleum Operator training in Worthy Down. Although Deepcut is not due to close until 2021, we are also exploring ways of delivering more Supply and Command training in Worthy Down over the next 12-18 months.

Promotions. Congratulations to Maj Sandra Hodgson, Maj Chris Darke RE (both of Supply Training Wing) and Maj Claire Masters (Command Wing) who have been selected for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel in the last year. We also celebrate with Captains Charlie Frost, Jordan Town (Command Wing) and Sean Birchnall (QM(T) in Deepcut), all selected for promotion to Major. Finally, congratulations to SSgt Michael Baxter (73 Sqn) on his selection to promotion to Warrant Officer Class 2.

In January, Command Wing said farewell to its current chief instructor, Lt Col Rob Wagstaff RLC. Rob is returning to operational duty and DSL staff wish him all the very best for the tour and his next posting.

Command Wing Chief Instructor Lt Col Rob Wagstaff RLC We focus here on the Troop Commanders’ Course (TCC 78) and its battlefield study. Fresh from an intense period of the course, where the young officers learn about commanding an RLC troop, the Logistic Estimate and complete the week-long field exercise, the battlefield study provides an opportunity for the Troopies to understand the realities of combat and get an invaluable appreciation for the way that weather and terrain can affect logistic operations. Hopefully it will inspire them to study the lessons of war more often and to take their own soldiers to former battlefields.

Bastogne and back again: A Troop Commander’s tale An early morning rise for TCC 78 signified the start of the three-day battlefield study in the penultimate week of the Troop Commanders’ Course.The party made for the Chunnel and then on to Bastogne in the Ardennes. Bastogne was to be the base for the study and the location of one of the major actions during the Battle of the Bulge. During the study, ably-led by our guide Steve Williams, we analysed and presented on various aspects of the battle, including offensive, defensive and logistic considerations.The aim was to consider the effect that logistics (and the lack of it) had on the outcome of Germany’s last major western offensive.

On our arrival at Hotel Melba, five scene-setters were delivered by five pairings of Troopies. These provided some important background information and covered the course of the battle, the aims of the German plan and the strengths and equipment of both sides.

The second day started with the retracing of the path of Kampfgruppe Pieper, led by the infamous Joachim Pieper, from its initial thrust at Helsenborn Ridge to its ultimate demise several days later at the hill-top village of La Gleize. Over the course of the day we examined several 16

areas, including the holding of the SS Panzer Divisons at Helsenborn Ridge and the cutting of three of the five main German ‘Rollbahns’ (supply routes) by the Americans. This was the only area along the salient where the Allied line was not pushed back. From a logistic perspective, it was arguably the death knell for an already doomed operation.

Of particular interest to the course, was the outcome for the Kampfgruppe, which lost around 70% of its armoured vehicles due to lack of fuel, rather than being knocked out by the Allies. This, combined with the unsuitability of the single-lane routes which they used, provided an important lesson on logistic planning. The group also visited the sites of several SS atrocities, including Malmedy.

Day three was centred around the siege of Bastogne and included a visit to the Bastogne War Museum and US War Memorial. This showed us the battle from both the Belgian civilian and German soldier perspectives, along with that of the Allies. Highlighted to us was the importance of ‘non-teeth arm’ units in the battle. There were numerous examples of logistic and reconnaissance units holding up Panzer columns and buying crucial time for the reorganisation of the defence of the Ardennes.

The study emphasised how the German offensive around the Ardennes was operationally affected by the minor, almost coincidental actions of small groups of soldiers; in particular the delaying action by 18 US soldiers commanded by a lone, 20-year-old Lieutenant, which held up the attack for 18 hours. The logistic aspects of the battle were critical to both sides; the Germans extended their tail further than their MSRs could cope with and the US forces (despite their immense resources) had their supply chain hampered by the poor weather and frequently cut by the Germans. The Battle of the Bulge has been a great case study from a CSS perspective and the Belgian beer isn’t too bad either!

8 TCC78 at La Gleize in the Ardennes

Food Services Training Wing (FSTW) Chief Instructor: Lt Col Fletch Fletcher RLC In the second half of 2018, Food Services Training Wing (FSTW) personnel were involved in a wide range of tasks which show-cased the excellence of our instructors.

The RLC and RAF staff were committed heavily in supporting and competing in Ex JOINT CATERER, held at the Defence Academy in Shrivenham. Plenty of medals were won by FSTW staff and impressively, by trainees. The result was a (narrow) RAF victory, but everyone involved

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DSL | THE SUSTAINER

learnt a great deal about their trade, making them better chefs and instructors.

In Nov, Sgt Bruce Barber RLC was asked to produce a fat carving to be presented at the Army Games of Remembrance, by the Army Football Association. The carving was to be a replica of the ‘Christmas Truce’ sculpture, depicting the scene as British and German soldiers shook hands on Christmas Day 1914. The carving was presented at the match in front of 14,000 spectators.

Looking ahead into 2019, FSTW will deploy a training team to deliver specialist training to the Afghan Army in Kabul, in addition to a group of instructors demonstrating their skills in the British Embassy in Paris.

Army Apprenticeships – what’s new? In 2013, the Government led an overhaul of apprenticeships, stipulating that future apprenticeships should be designed by industry so that the ‘workforce-needs’ of employers were being met. Fast forward six years and new apprenticeship standards covering employment routes into the hospitality sector have been developed: Army and RAF chefs will be completing the Production Chef apprenticeship at Level two. This will start on the ‘Defence Chef Basic’ course (aka ‘Class 3’ for the Army) and be completed after approximately 12 months in unit. RLC chefs will be completing an extensive continuation training programme in their first unit, before being assessed by an independent assessor nominated by the End Point Assessment Organisation, the Army Catering Training Trust, supported by the Apprenticeship Warrant Officer based in Food Services Training Wing.

It is hoped that the first chefs to enroll will commence the new style apprenticeship in Jan 2019. The development of The RLC chefs’ apprenticeship has been led by WO1 (SSM) Nic Thomas-Savell RLC, supported by personnel from FSTW and the Field Army and will be a truly military-owned apprenticeship.

Supply Training Wing Chief Instructor Lt Col Dutch Holland RLC DSL’s Supply Training Wing (STW) delivers logistics and other specialised training in support of the Field Army (as well as tailored training events for other organisations, such as DE&S). The Wing comprises three divisions: Engineer Logistics Division (ELD), Supply Operations Division (SOD) and Quartermaster Division (QMD).

8 Quartermaster Division (Left to right): WO2 Gurung RGR – WO2 Stones RA – WO2 Bennett YORKS – WO1 Yates RLC – WO2 Cordy RLC – WO1 Curson RIFLES – WO2 Reilly RDG – Capt Davies RLC (QMD Senior Instructor)

Quartermaster Division QMD, arguably the busiest division within STW, is responsible for training over 1,200 regular and reserve All Arms personnel annually (All Arms Storeman, R/SQMS and Quartermasters), with courses running simultaneously and in many cases,‘back to back’ to meet the Army’s training output requirement. The Division has 11 permanent staff, which includes military and civil service instructors, with the military team predominantly drawn from the Senior Soldier Continuity Post (SSCP) list.

The latest addition to this team is WO1 Eddie Yates (exSenior Military Instructor of the Wing) who has brought some significant supply experience and capability to the team: congratulations to him on his selection for his first

8 Far from the tropical climates Mariners often operate in, trainee Mariners must learn to disassemble and build a Mexifloat while in the water in grip of an icy Feb day at the Sea Mounting Centre, Marchwood

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17

THE SUSTAINER | DSL

8 Mariner Class 1 course, attended by Cpl Evely, LCpl Grace, LCpl Keough and LCpl Wright (all from 17 Regt RLC) conducting beach and slipway recce’s using the Army Work Boat and Combat Support Boat, (vessels provided by 17 Regt RLC)

SSCP appointment. With significant churn expected in 2019, the addition of Mr Yates takes the QMD team’s combined years of military service to over 200 years.The annual SSCP roadshow is a must for all RLC Warrant Officers who (rather than head for civi street or the Officers’ Mess) want to continue their regular military careers in the logistic and training environment.

73 Training Squadron OC Maj Ed Rosevink RLC Over the last quarter, 73 Training Squadron has had a significant changeover of instructors, resulting in a challenging but rewarding period.The Maritime Department is delivering Mariner Class 1, 2 and 3 courses and has recently delivered the Royal Engineer Maritime Safety Course.The Port Operations Department has delivered 11 standalone mechanical handling equipment courses, five crane courses and Port Operator Class 3, regular and reserve training, to soldiers joining 17 Regt RLC and 165 Regt RLC respectively.WO1 Mark Constantine was welcomed to the Sqn and takes on the mantle of the Senior Military Instructor. He has subsequently delivered the Port Operator Class 1 Course.

The Vehicle Supply Specialist (VSS) Department has welcomed its new Senior Instructor, SSgt Samuel Taylor.

SSgt Taylor, he has taken over from Sgt Billy Matthews, who had stepped up and performed the role admirably during a prolonged period of gapping.The VSS has delivered instruction at the Armour Centre (ARMCEN), Bovington, on the VSS Class 3 Armoured Vehicle Course, qualifying 16 regular and reserve soldiers on 43 vehicle platforms.

Exercise NEPTUNE CHALLENGER took the VSS to SPTA as part of the VSS Class 1 Course, teaching and testing the 8 The Army’s senior female Mariner, Sgt Sallie Black, joined 73 Trg Sqn in Oct 18 as an instructor

8 LCpl Adu-Aboagye with civil service and military members of 73 Trg Sqn work to clear overgrowth and tidy St. Mary’s Church graveyard prior to Remembrance Sunday

operation of a Vehicle Replenishment Section (VRS).

While focused on training, there has still been time for development. Sgt Matthews organised a Sqn visit to the poppy factory, learning about its work supporting serving members of the Armed Forces and veterans. Cpl Atkinson qualified as boat crew for the RNLI and has been involved in numerous ‘call outs’ and Sgt Colman organised a Sqn day clearing overgrowth from St. Mary’s Church in Eling prior to Remembrance Sunday.

Over the festive period the Sqn said farewell to Sgts Colman and MacKay, Cpls Waiter and Heath and LCpl Adu-Aboagye and welcomed Sgts Black and Levy, Cpls O’Brien and Donaldson and LCpl St-Ville.

Our new maritime instructor, Sgt Sallie Black is the senior female Mariner in the Army. Over the last 15 years her trade has taken her all over the world. Highlights have included Belize, Oman and she has worked as crew on a variety of army boats. As a Cpl she held the highly responsible position of Coxswain of a Mexeflote deployed to the Caribbean on hurricane disaster relief operations.

Since the beginning of January, Sgt Black has been instructing on the Mariner Class 3 course. She is a role model for any female soldiers considering a career in the Maritime trade.

8 VSS Class 1 conducting site recces prior to deployment (L to R: WO2 Gott, SSgt S Taylor, Sgt Matthews, SSgt M Taylor)

18

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

Social Media – everyone is doing it For good or bad, everyone seems to be talking about Social Media, the influence on our children, positive or negative, news access wherever seemingly in the world you are, false or otherwise and keeping in touch with your virtual social circle if only to keep a streak going.

So, whether you are a SnapChatter, a WhatsApper, a Facebooker, a YouTuber, an Instagrammer or a Tweeter or maybe you abhor the technology and don’t subscribe to any of these platforms, but with 90% of UK adults now online and smartphones the most commonly owned internet-enable device among all age groups, there is no denying that social media over the past decade has seen exponential growth and is here to stay.

The Army has embraced all these platforms, to a greater or lesser degree and the RLC has done the same. As a Corps, effective external communications will help us get the right message across, at the right time, to the right people, consistently and accurately.

There are currently four main platforms that you can find an RLC presence on, all of them are seeing more and more followers and subscribers. With the emphasis heavily on recruiting and retention it is vitally important that we connect with our soldiers and potential recruits through these channels as well as engaging with those who have left and those who have an interest in the Corps and its activities.

What’s interesting is the demographics. Facebook is the largest social media network by far and is indeed The RLC’s most successful platform in regard to numbers, around 13.5k followers. Focus groups, undertaken last year with RLC soldiers under the age of 25, suggested that printed matter, websites and Facebook didn’t resonate with them. Indeed, Facebook’s demographics are on a downward trend as younger users leave, attracted by the immediacy of sites like YouTube, Instagram, WhatsApp and Snapchat. Anecdotally, Facebook attracts the over 50s, Twitter the over 40s whilst if you are under 20 you are more likely to use Instagram, SnapChat and a few other platforms that most have never heard of such as Tumblr, Periscope and Vimeo. The following of popular bloggers and vbloggers (Video bloggers) is in the millions and their influence is far reaching.

Administering these platforms is extremely labour intensive if the content is going to be relevant, fresh and up to date. Followers can comment and message at any time, so administration is not limited to normal office hours. Most of our Facebook direct messaging comes in over the weekend or late at night. If our main effort is to increase recruiting and retention within the Corps, then we need to go after that ruthlessly, prioritising the younger element and the platforms they use, speaking in a language that they can relate too. It is not effective communication or an effective use of very limited resources to ‘spray and pray’ content in the hope that some of it sticks, somewhere.

It is also important that we are able to measure our success. Ultimately, we are looking to drive traffic onto

8 Facebook (top) is the largest social media network by far and is indeed The RLC’s most successful platform in regard to numbers.

Younger users are attracted by the immediacy of sites like YouTube (above), Instagram, WhatsApp and Snapchat

The RLC recruiting pages and see an uplift in applications from our primary target group. This alongside the average notice to terminate by RLC soldiers decreasing. However, it is always good to see the monthly uplift in figures for each platform. We monitor the other Corps to ensure we are keeping up and aspire to surpass them but we all find ourselves in the same boat with each media channel and there is an open dialogue within the cap badges to share best practice.

So, whatever your platform of choice, we would encourage you to engage with The RLC on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ TheRoyalLogisticCorps Twitter: @rhq_the_rlc Instagram: Army RLC @royallogisticcorps YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCQoqq-OX7jZ0aKqFx2FVjeQ or just search for Royal Logistic Corps, it is probably easier!

www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

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ROYAL LOGISTIC One of the main focuses for The RLC this year as it enters into its next 25 years, will continue to be recruitment into its trades.

There are 16 RLC trades and every one of those trades is accredited to national apprenticeships, some of which can achieve up to degree level.

Over the next 16 pages we take a dedicated look into what each trade can offer if you're thinking of retraining.

MARINER

PETROLEUM OPERATOR PORT OPERATOR DRIVER COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST

SYSTEMS ANALYST AMMUNITION TECHNICIAN

MOVEMENT CONTROLLER

TANK TRANSPORTER

LOGISTIC SPECIALIST (SUPPLY)

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www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

CORPS TRADES PHOTOGRAPHER

DRIVER AIR DESPATCHER

POSTAL AND COURIER OPERATOR

VEHICLE SUPPORT SPECIALIST

MARINE ENGINEER

CHEF

www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC TRADES: DRIVER

More than just driving a truck

By Sgt Antonio Brunetti, Transport Control Tower During my time in the driver trade I’ve had the opportunity to work on many interesting and varied projects.

I’m currently working as a member of the three-man team at the Army Transport Control Tower which consists of a Master Driver (Warrant Officer), a Staff Sergeant and myself.

The role of the project is to monitor and analyse the use of the Army TLB MoD fleet and employed drivers in order to make cost savings in the number of third-party contracts that are put out to tender.

We’ve been looking at MAN SV cargo variants of the 6,9 and 15 tonne type and the white fleet which includes coaches and minibuses, to make sure they are fully utilised across the Army.

My role specifically is to look at data from JAMES and CLARITY – green and white transport management systems.

I use the systems to report root causes back to the divisions and provide recommendations for best practice. We’ve recently completed v1 of a planning guide for coaches and minibuses across the UK and Germany. Version 2 will be published in Sep 2019.

One project I’m particularly proud of is for the Joint Air Mounting Centre. We have been looking into whether there is a cheaper alternative to transport troops from South Cerney to Brize Norton as using private hire coaches and their drivers were costing up to £200,000 per year.

Our research has located five coaches which are not being utilised fully across the units so we are conducting a six month trial period using these vehicles with MoD drivers instead. We should be able to save £1 million over five years.

To be able to see a project through which we initiated and be given the green light for our work is incredibly satisfying and working in a four-star HQ will enable us to apply any benefit right across the military.

The project was originally 22

8 The role of the Army Control Tower is to monitor and analyse the use of the Army TLB MoD fleet and employed drivers

intended to run for six months but has now been extended for a further six months. I will finish my stint on 1 Apr when I will deploy back to my unit 17 Port and Maritime Regiment.

Rewarding The driver trade itself is incredibly rewarding, in our work as logisticians, efficient transport is the link that holds everything together.

This is whether we are doing an airport run to get a troop out on a deployment or working on an exercise to get rations out from a second line echelon base.

But it’s also more than just driving. The servicing and maintenance aspects of the trade give you invaluable skills, whether you’re making the transition to a commercial environment or working on your own car at home.

Plus, there is the ability to

progress. I joined The RLC at the age of 16 as a Chef but decided to transfer to the Driver trade as a new challenge. I’m now 31 and still enjoying it now.

One of the stand out memories for me was of my time with 44 Squadron at Sandhurst offering driver training support to the Officer cadets from Nov 2015 to Jan 2017. I would highly recommend this experience to any driver, it was a great opportunity.

My interests lie in the management of vehicles and I love the variety of transport you get to work with as a Driver plus the travel involved.

There are plenty of opportunities for training too and I’ve completed my Drivers Examining Course where I examine new drivers weekly.

My future plan is to progress to a Master Driver as quickly as possible.

I can’t recommend entering the trade enough. It’s more than just driving a truck, transport operator/ manager is much more reflective as a job title.

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RLC TRADES: DRIVER COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST | THE SUSTAINER

By WO1 (SSM) Mark Gill, Training Officer, Comms Spec Head of Trade

A myriad of deployments

The Comms Spec trade has been deployed across a myriad of testing environments supporting numerous exercises in the Joint Space working not only alongside our partners in UK Defence, but also in conjunction with multinational elements. I’d like to highlight two instances out of many over the last six months.

EXERCISE INTEGRATED SERPENT The 2nd Medical Brigade Communications Specialists deployed to Sennelager, Germany in Oct 2018 to conduct an interoperability exercise with the US Army Medical service.

The exercise tested both the UK and US Main Treatment Facility (MTF) which incorporated both nations Patient Care Pathway and tracking multinational patients going through both facilities.

Alongside the clinicians and other medical personnel, the G6 teams got the opportunity to develop cross pollination communications between the facilities. This incorporated the use of numerous communications assets including a Tactical Voice Bridge (TVB) which linked both nations’ radio nets, providing an all informed net across the tactical space.

ComBAT was used for the UK MFT to send R2s and other critical information back to the Patient Evacuation Coordination Cell (PECC).

In the absence of Royal Signals communications systems to support the deployment, BOWMAN was tested to the extreme, delivering results and proving it still has a place in the modern-day environment.

Cpl Coleman 2 Med Bde. “We linked communications for casualty evacuation using various systems and ComBAT for reports and returns. It was a very eye-opening experience working with other nations and seeing how we can communicate together using a spectrum of communications assets.”

EXERCISE SAIF SAREEA 3 Defence’s main effort for 2018 saw over 5000 British troops deploy to

Oman to work alongside their Omani partners. 9 Regt RLC led the Theatre Entry Group responsible for the theatre arrivals and departures of personnel and equipment with 1 Regt RLC providing support to 1 AI Bde Headquarters and the Exercising Battlegroup.

The main exercise was split into three phases presenting greater challenges across communications networks with every step as the distances and flow of communications traffic increased.

In addition to this the arid desert conditions created greater levels of difficulty. Notably at the peak of the exercise a tactical communications network was maintained across a 180km Battle lane using solely BOWMAN communications incorporating rebroadcast stations and a display of expertise. The deployed troops admitted that this experience gave the opportunity to test and refine their skills with the environment testing equipment and amplifying any mistakes made.

Cpl Hogg 1 RLC. “This was the first deployment for me as a Section Commander. It gave me chance to develop my leadership skills and I was allowed freedom of movement with my section. It also gave me the chance to practically conduct my trade within a harsh environment. Towards the end of Ex SS3 I was awarded the Land Component Commanders Coin, something I am very proud of.”

8 Ex Integrated Serpent tested both the UK and US Main Treatment Facility (MTF)

The Future of Comms As part of the whole LE TacCis overhaul, BCiP 5.6 in now being delivered across Defence, this is the first of some major changes to the way that our armed forces communicate. The changes at this stage are relatively subtle, with some new user interfaces improving data entry and providing greater levels of battlefield situational awareness.

The biggest improvement is in respect of the software packages with notable upgrades to ComBAT. 1 Armoured Medical Regiment Comms Troop, which was the first RLC supported entity to receive the upgrade in the last quarter of 2018.

The unit RSWO took the opportunity at the recent trade study day to deliver a presentation sharing his experiences and spreading best practice tips to the audience.

8 Ex SAIF SAREEA was split into three phases presenting greater challenges across communications networks

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC TRADES: CHEF

A valued profession

By Maj Gen (Hon) David Morgan-Hewitt Eight years ago I was invited to become the latest in a long line of Honorary Catering Advisors to The Army. I had no idea at the time just how many amazing and dedicated young chefs I would have the pleasure of meeting over the next few years.

In my day job I run The Goring, London’s last remaining family owned luxury hotel. We have 36 chefs working in our 70-seat restaurant and three small private dining rooms.

Soon we will employ another 16 chefs to run a second restaurant we are opening.

Although there are far fewer chefs now in the Army than when I first became involved, their importance both on operations and back on base has never been more vital. With the move to contract catering as the main solution for feeding our troops the specialist skills of the Army chefs have become increasingly important and valued.

I have dined in many Cookhouses and Messes over the last few years and I can always tell when there are military chefs in the kitchen. I have seen just what our chefs can do when preparing special meals for celebration events, in competitions and, most importantly, in the field.

Military chefs should never underestimate the great regard in which they are held by their colleagues across The Army. On operations, they are able to provide an unimaginable boost to morale when they work their magic across and beyond the ration packs.

Being a military chef is not for everyone. You need to combine being a fit, deployable soldier with the skills and grace required to create food which lifts the hearts of those eating it.

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Life inside JFC Specialist Units By a Military Chef As an RLC Chef, working within a Specialist Military Unit environment, the work is both highly rewarding and an opportunity that I would recommend to anyone, at any rank. My journey here started back in 2011 and has seen me progress from Pte to senior Cpl in seven years.

One of the things that struck me when I first arrived is that this is a grown-up environment to work in.

The ethos is based on a ‘classless society’, which means you are all treated equally, regardless of rank or capbadge and valued for your expertise at your level.

This ‘relaxed’, yet high tempo, operationally focused environment is not for everybody, but if you can operate and conduct yourself discreetly and professionally, you will undoubtedly gain a higher level of confidence and professional capability.

Life within this Specialist Military camp is different to all other PAYD units. The Garrison operates a bespoke ‘in-house’ PAYD system, managed and operated by RLC Chefs, supported by Contractor Mess Hands and Stewards.

This affords ongoing catering management experience at every level, as well as the expected delivery of core and higher culinary skills. I firmly believe I’m a better chef, manager and leader as a result of my experience here.

Over the last two years, the Unit has increased its focus on ‘Human Performance’, which we as chefs are heavily involved in. We work closely with external performance nutritionists to offer the very best food to the Specialist Military community and we’re recognised as being an important component in maintaining operational effectiveness.

Garrison social and recreational life is second to none. The facilities

8 The facilities within Hereford Garrison are some of the best in the Army

within Hereford Garrison are some of the best in the Army, if not the country. Whether it be gym-based, aquatic or outdoor pursuits, everything is catered for here, underpinned with an outstanding level of welfare support to soldiers and their families.

The opportunities to deploy attract me above everything else.

As the catering lead NCO, it could be deploying as a part of a domestic response in support of a COBRA initiated Military Aide to Civil Authority or travelling overseas for 6-8 weeks in charge of feeding for a sqn, atts, dets and other governmental departments.

In barracks, the list of UK /foreign royalty and VVIP visitors reads like the weekly edition of ‘Hello’ magazine. There is certainly no room for complacency. Over the last year, RLC Chefs have provided catering support to 86 different exercises and one enduring operation. I have certainly travelled during my assignment and have been fortunate to visit countries like Malaysia, America, Brunei, Africa and the Middle East, to name but a few.

Without doubt, the Specialist Military Community is somewhere every chef should serve if they want to broaden their skill set. The general expectation is to develop and work to a rank above and be relied upon to make decisions on the ground, in an environment where there are multiple moving parts and changing commitments.

In my opinion, there is no better place to be assigned to!

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RLC TRADES: PETROLEUM OPERATOR | THE SUSTAINER Exercise ARCHAEOPTERYX DAGGER saw members of Pet Tp CLR and 66 Sqn 9 Regt RLC deploy to provide integral fuel support to Commando Helicopter Force on their trainees’ final exercise Ex MERLIN STORM. The task given to Pet Tp was to be able to provide storage for 100,000ltrs of F-34 and Forward Refuelling Points (FRP).

26 Nov 2018 was your usual wet and windy morning, typical of most Pet Op exercises, but this did not deter Pet Tp and Cpl Heeson from building the PBFI required to store the F-34. This was Cpl Heeson’s first time at being site commander and the Person In Charge for the commissioning of the site and throughout the exercise. Once the site was built, rehearsals were conducted prior to the site being commissioned with F-34 with the AP (Pet) Sgt Lilley RE coming from 516 STRE. Four inloads and two days of work later saw the PBFI in RMB Chivenor fully inloaded with 100,00ltrs of F-34. The Pet Ops went into mission rehearsals for establishing a FRP prepping HUSLE Nets and going through helicopter handling skills.

The weekend saw Pet Tp conduct the first of three FRP serials with Air Portable Fuel Containers (APFCs) being underslung and delivered to the BRAUNTON BURROWS Training

Ex ARCHAEOPTERYX DAGGER

By WO2 (SQMS) Whiteley Ops WO

Area. It took around eight minutes to establish the FRP before a Merlin then landed alongside for fuel, unfortunately this was a dry run through on this occasion. Pet Tp conducted both day and night FRP’s before finally delivering fuel to a Merlin whilst establishing the FRP in a shade under 7 minutes.

The culmination of the exercise was a stores drop by C130 onto Saunton Sands beach working alongside 47 AD Sqn, CHF and 47 Sqn RAF making this a truly tri – service serial. 47 Sqn RAF dropped two pallets of stores, including APFC’s, which were recovered by members of 47 AD

8 The Pet Ops in mission rehearsals going through helicopter handling skills

Sqn, LS Sqn and LFSS Sqn CLR. CHF unfortunately were unable to lift the loads from the beach and LS Sqns vehicle fleet was called into play.

The exercise was a resounding success truly harnessing all three services in a CSS environment with Pet Tp CLR showcasing their capabilities to CHF. The Pet Ops in CLR have a niche capability in their delivery of a FRP and the support to CHF, which is destined to continue and provide a new level of training and deployment for the Pet Op trade.

Becoming a Trade Proponent

By Col A Maddison, Assistant Head Capability Joint Logistic Enablers Defence Logistics When I was asked if I would be interested in becoming the RLC Trade Proponent for the Petroleum Operator trade, I was only too happy to take on without any hesitation.

I completed the Officers Petroleum Course in 1994 and proceeded to jobs in a Petroleum Sqn and as an SO3. As a Major I commanded a Fuel Support Sqn and did a Fuels staff appointment as an SO2.

My most recent fuels interactions were in planning for a fuel strike in 2012 whilst an SO1 in Army HQ. Operationally I have been heavily involved in fuel provision on Op GRAPPLE, BANNER, FINGAL, TELIC and HERRICK. As trade proponent I have already had some useful meetings with the Head of Trade and look forward to assisting him in further developing the Petroleum Operator career structure, recognised qualifications and opportunities.

Furthermore, I hope to be able to promote Petroleum Operator capabilities across the army so that greater utilisation of the flexibility delivered to operations is achieved. As part of this I also hope to create an improved career path for officers completing the OPC beyond Tp Comd.

Petroleum Operators frequently work under difficult conditions as well as having to overcome the technical challenges presented routinely when operating in the field.

These are often solved using a combination of intellect and hard work. I understand the pride and rewards such actions bring within the trade.

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC TRADES: POSTAL AND COURIER OPERATOR

Amazing opportunity

By Pte Cassie Holberry

I have served nearly ten years in the British Army Regular and Reserves. I have recently posted from 13 Air Assault Support Regiment, where I was serving as a Driver, to 29 Regiment RLC to assume my new role as a Postal Courier.

Having been at 29 Regt a mere three months, I was offered a six-month deployment on Op TORAL. This is my first time out in Afghanistan and although I had only three weeks to complete my Pre-Deployment Training. I saw this as an amazing opportunity to gain trade experience.

Working over Christmas required some long shifts, but it is a very rewarding job giving people their Christmas mail, so all the hard work pays off.

As a class 3 Postal Courier, the highlight of my tour is flying on the Pumas and Black Hawks to run counter services at a different location in Kabul. I am enjoying my new job as a Postie and looking forward to what the future brings.

Postal & Courier Operator Postal and Courier Operators ensure the secure delivery of mail to soldiers, sailors and airmen both in the UK and overseas helping troops stay in touch with family and friends and sometimes specialising in top secret mail delivery.

Operators play an integral role in maintaining one of the Army’s vital lines of communication, ensuring the welfare and morale of deployed troops remains high.

The day to day job involves handling all types of mail, whether it be official or private. Operators are trained on and work with the latest IT systems from Royal Mail and the British Forces Post Office.

Postings vary worldwide, but can include locations such as Washington, Canada, Cyprus, Nepal, Brunei and Gibraltar.

Though predominantly based at South Cerney, there are great opportunities for travel and sport (Skiing, Shooting, Rugby and many more).

Operators are given responsibility early in their career and the chance to run their own Forces Post Office anywhere in the world, which includes dealing with military and civilian customers.

There is also the chance to gain a vast array of qualifications including the CAT B+E driving license, Qualifications & Credit Framework (QCF) – Level 2 in Mail Services, Level 1 in Functional Skills (Progress to level 2 in Unit), and Defence Awarding Organisation qualifications, ranging from Level 2 Award in Postal Courier Services up to Level 5 Management of Postal Courier Services.

Knowledge development

By LCpl Tiernan Boland I joined as a Postal Courier Operator in 2017. I have really enjoyed my time in the postal trade so far.

I have been to Germany for trade training which I really enjoyed, working in the sorting office and on the counter really helped me develop my knowledge prior to deployment.

Previously, I deployed to Oman on Op KIPION, which was great. During my

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deployment I carried out general sorting office duties and carried out courier runs to the British Embassy. I have also worked on the counter dealing with many of the military personnel that are on camp sending mail back to loved ones in the UK. The biggest highlight of my tour so far has been the opportunity to fly, delivering diplomatic mail to the other end of Oman in support of Ex SAIF SAREEA 3.

www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

RLC TRADES: MARINE ENGINEER | THE SUSTAINER

Supporting the Royal Marines

By Cpl Danny McGurk, AWB Engineer, 17 P&M Regt EXERCISE Saif Sareea 3 saw Mariners and Marine Engineers from 17 Port and Maritime Regiment deployed to an Amphibious Beach Unit on the Omani coast in support of the amphibious landing element of the exercise. This involved a ship to shore move of personnel, vehicles, and equipment from HMS Albion, RFA Cardigan Bay and RFA Lyme Bay. These movements were predominantly enabled by Royal Marine Vessels, however a vital element in the final stage was provided by 17 Port and Maritime Regiment, which deployed two Mexeflote modular rafts reconfigured into a single Causeway and an Army Work Boat to provide close support. The Causeway allowed for loads to be discharged onto the beach without the Royal Marine Vessels physically touching land, making the final part of the ship to shore movement a considerably quicker evolution.

Risk element The Mexeflotes, Work Boat and their crews were deployed from RFA Lyme Bay and MV Anvil Point.

With the assistance of the Work Boat, the Mexeflotes were reconfigured into a single Causeway complete with accommodation modules for the crew and propulsion units allowing it to self-deploy. It then sailed to the ABU with navigational and communication support provided by the Work Boat.

Upon reaching the ABU, sunset was approaching and the anchors to secure the Causeway in position were yet to be deployed.

Deployment and positioning of these anchors always carries the potential for an element of risk due to the very nature of the equipment involved.

For many of the crew members this was the first Causeway they had been deployed on due to such operations being a rare occurrence.

This, coupled with the diminishing

light conditions, made it a challenge for everyone involved. A brief between the vessel crews was carried out, with an emphasis on safety and communication. The anchors were deployed successfully, securing the Causeway in place for the duration of the exercise.

The exercise saw the Causeway’s crew assist in the offloading of Royal Marine Vessels during night and day under tactical conditions as well as carrying out routine maintenance. The Work Boat remained at anchor off the coast as a safety vessel and communications link between the ABU and Royal Navy and RFA ships.

On completion of the taskings at the ABU, the Causeway retracted from the beach then sailed back to RFA Lyme Bay, again with the Work Boat in support. Upon reaching RFA Lyme Bay, the Causeway was reconfigured back into two Mexeflote rafts which were then lifted onto the ship’s flanks. The Work Boat then sailed to MV Anvil Point where it was recovered using the ship’s crane.

Unique capabilities This element of Ex SS3 involved five Marine Engineers from the rank and qualification of Pte Class 3 up to Cpl Class 1. In brief they were responsible for operation, maintenance and repair of all mechanical and electrical systems onboard. Each Mexeflote crew

8 The Ex involved a ship to shore move of personnel, vehicles, equipment and stores from HMS Albion, RFA Cardigan Bay and RFA Lyme Bay

included a L/Cpl Class 2 as the Chief Engineer and Pte Class 3 as the Second Engineer. As well as routine engineering tasks, their responsibilities also included the operation of the vessel’s propulsion units. The Army Work Boat crew included a single Cpl Class 1 Engineer, who again had the same responsibilities but on a more complex vessel.

Due to the nature of the exercise, the Army vessels were very much isolated from the spares and repair support usually in place, thus emphasising the importance of keeping the equipment functioning in order to allow the crews to sustain themselves and carry out their taskings. This in turn placed a considerable amount of responsibility onto individual Marine Engineers to ensure all equipment remained functioning correctly. This coupled with not having an immediately available Marine Engineering CoC to turn too, meant that decision making was very much up to the individual.

Overall, 17 Port and Maritime Regiment’s involvement with Ex SS3 was very successful and demonstrated the unique capabilities which can be provided by its vessels and personnel.

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC TRADES: MARINER

By Cpl Mathew Coxall, Mexeflote commander, 17 Port & Maritime Regt In early Sep 2018, Mexeflotes, an Army Workboat and a Combat Support Boat deployed on several ships as part of the Amphibious Task Group (ATG) and conducted build up exercises in the Mediterranean before moving through to Ex SS3 in Oct 18 where the ATG conducted ship to shore discharge of the fleet using Mexeflote.

We needed to meet up with the ATG in Duqm in Oman at the beginning of Oct for the Ex SS3 phase. On arrival in to Duqm we were pleasantly surprised by the brand-new airport and the workers camp, which we ended up staying at for nine days. From experience this could have sunk morale, but the food and accommodation were excellent and with fast, free wifi to boot, we were a happy bunch of lads.

Once we finally made it to the ship it was straight to work to

Re-joining the Army as a RLC Mariner

By Pte Morgan I left the Army in 2013 as part of the redundancies and found it difficult to adjust to civilian life, I bounced from job to job and wasn’t really gaining any satisfaction from what I was doing.

So, I decided to re-join the Army and on the 14 Nov 2016 I was posted directly from Civvy Street to 17 Port & Maritime Regt RLC in Southampton. I only had to wait a few weeks before I commenced my Mariner Class 3 course.

To serve on a military vessel as a Mariner you must also complete a Basic Sea Survival Course in Portsmouth which covered ships CBRN procedures, abandonment drills and survival at sea, fire-fighting and ship’s damage control. We also had a week in Worthy Down which covered basic food hygiene and food preparation because as a Mariner, each member of the crew must muck in with the cooking.

We ended up with free food for

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A Mariner’s view of Ex SS3

8 The Causeway proved vital to the success of the exercise and once again showed the versatility of the Mexeflote

reconfigure the two Mexeflotes into a Causeway. Immediately on completion, we left the sanctuary of the ship and headed to a predetermined beach where we would anchor the Causeway to the beach and the seabed for the duration of the exercise.

Once we had managed to manhandle in place all four of the huge sea anchors, we spent the

the week as everything we cooked we got to eat (if I hadn’t burnt it).

Since my training, I have been in Zulu Tp in 52 squadron, where we hold the Mexeflote capability. I have been on various trips around the world including the Caribbean for six months as part of the Hurricane Relief effort, Oman on Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 for three months, and Ex LION STAR in Cyprus with our sister Reserve 165 Regiment.

Soon I will be deploying on several amphibious exercises around the UK before we all head out to Estonia.

The opportunities to deploy on various exercises around the world are vast and I’m enjoying my time back in the Army as a Mariner.

Life onboard during APT(N)

By Cpl (Helen) Mason-Young Apart from the regular Army and Navy exercise programmes which Mariners find themselves involved with, we have a standing commitment to support a Royal Fleet Auxiliary ship, the RFA Mounts Bay, in the Caribbean 365 days a year.

following six days deployed on the Causeway with regular resupplies of fresh water and ORP being brought from the ship.

Soldiers will always manage to make the best of things and can usually manufacture what they need from things around them, this was no exception as we utilised an empty water bottle on a pole as a makeshift shower and ponchos to create an outdoor shaded area to give us some respite from the sun.

The Causeway proved vital to the success of the exercise and once again showed the versatility of the Mexeflote which is now 56 years old.

After the Causeway recovery phase everyone was looking forward to a few more days at the camp in Duqm before the flight home on the RAF’s big grey bird with another job well done, with Mexeflote still demonstrating its exceptional defence capability.

From Jun to Nov each year the RFA Mounts Bay is deployed as the UK’s first line response centred around delivering Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) to the Islands of the Caribbean if a major hurricane hits landfall.

The main method for the delivery of large quantities of aid relief to the islands via ship to shore is by the Mexeflote embarked onboard the Mounts Bay which is commanded by a Cpl Class 1 Mariner.

As the Mexeflote commander I deployed in support of HADR operations in 2018 onboard the Mounts Bay. During my deployment we visited more than 12 different Caribbean islands where we conducted vital reconnaissance for contingency planning in the event of natural disasters. Fortunately, the Caribbean was spared any major devastation this time. This was one of the best deployments I have been on in my army career. APT(N) is a very rewarding deployment and a welcome break from normal amphibious operations.

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RLC TRADES: PORT OPERATOR | THE SUSTAINER

By Cpl Clarke, 17 Port and Maritime Regiment I joined the trade in 2005, six days shy of my 20th birthday, having decided against going into the Infantry because I was sold by the opportunity to get my licenses and see the world.

Thirteen years later I’m still in the trade and still loving it. One of the perks about being part of a working Regiment is that there is always a job to be deployed to on every day of the year.

The first trip I was deployed on was to Norway on a two-day exercise moving kit for Force Protection. It was my first trip and I loved it, despite the weather making us really seasick.

Another stand-out trip for me was in 2010 when we deployed to Australia on Ex LONG LOOK, a three-month exchange programme with the Australian Army. I was mainly working out of the main land base in Townsville, but when the work was done I got the opportunity to travel around the country.

We were supplied with a car for our trip and I made some life-long friends who I’m still in contact with.

Exciting In the latter part of 2018 we were deployed on ATG 18 as part of a Force Protection team travelling up the Suez Canal and then onto Oman.

During this three-month deployment I was tasked with training up the other ten members of the team in the vessel weapon systems. It was particularly challenging because as well as conducting the training, I had to resume my trade hat as soon as we

A trade like no other

8 ATG 18 saw port ops deployed as part of a Force Protection team travelling up the Suez Canal and then on to Oman

entered port.

This was as well as being on night alert for any threats. During the exercise, we were scoped out by a number of small vessels who beat a hasty retreat as soon as they saw that military personnel were onboard!

A highlight of the exercise was live firing GPMGs off the back of the ship which we don’t normally get the opportunity to do.

The exercise culminated in a joint exercise with the local military involving 20 warships, a real spectacle to see.

New challenges I’m just about to deploy out to Mombasa, Kenya to discharge and backload kit and equipment in support of BATUK from a Joint Rapid Reaction Force Roll On Roll Off vessel.

Five days later, I will deploy out to Sunnypoint in America to discharge exercise equipment consisting of

armoured Landrovers and ammunition for Ex WAR FIGHTER. It could take anything from a couple of hours to a couple of days and will involve 12-hour shifts.

Opportunity One of the best things about the port op trade is the amount of qualifications and licenses that you can work towards. During my 13 years I’ve acquired my HGV license along with the ability to man mobile and harbour cranes and forklifts, all of which are really valuable for when I leave the Army.

Also, 17 Regt is one of only two regiments that are permanently based in one location, Marchwood down in Southampton. This has the advantage of creating a settled environment to bring up my children and means that my wife can stay in one job for as long as she chooses!

Beyond this, if you’re into your sports, we’re renowned for our sporting prowess, we used to be known as “17 Sports and Pastime Regiment” for good reason.

There is plenty of opportunity for sailing and the Corps Yacht is stationed here for most of the year.

Our Nordic Ski team is one of the best in the Army and we have excellent Alpine Ski, football, rugby and basketball teams.

There is plenty of opportunity for AT too. Last year we had the opportunity to go to Germany for some downtime which included kayaking, mountain-biking, and hill-walking.

8 During ATG 18 Cpl Clarke was tasked with training up the other ten members of the team in the vessel weapon systems

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC TRADES: LOGISTIC SPECIALIST (SUPPLY) With the closing down of operational engagements on Afghanistan, OP CABRIT in Estonia happens to be the main operational effort of the Army in recent years. The extreme weather conditions of the Baltic state and the pace of work together with the workload, make it a challenge for logistics as a whole.

As a Supplier by trade and a storeman, sustaining operations is always the main effort. This can only be achieved by making available and providing the troops with whatever is required to make them function and carry out their duties efficiently.

OP CABRIT has been a challenge due the fact that supporting a Battle Group is completely different from supporting dependencies back in the unit because of the diverse nature of cap badges involved.

It has also been a challenge due to the recent changes in the logistics support partners of the MoD, in areas such as transport, provisioning, inventory, distribution and the reverse supply chain, that handles the repairable aspect of battle spares.

Because of this, availability of

Ex SAIF SAREEA 3

By Pte Cherry, 84 MSS I deployed with my small detachment from 84 Medical Supply Squadron to Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 in Oman.

Our mission was to receive, store and distribute Medical Materiel in the form of medicines and equipment required for the medical assets in-theatre to operate successfully.

The tentage and all of the kit we required were sent ahead weeks before we actually flew into Oman. When we did fly we had to endure a five-day delay in Al Minhad due to aircraft issues.

This seemed to delay everything including some of the vital Medical Materiel Shelf Life (MMSL), which was to prove very challenging so close to the start of the exercise.

We had very little time to start processing the thousands of items that were to follow allowing the

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The logistic challenges for OP CABRIT 3

By Cpl Agbor, Op CABRIT, 4 Armd Cs Bn REME, RLC Stores

spares to support the Battle Group has been a difficult issue. Having one item that is required by three to five sections of the Battle Group poses a big challenge to make the priority call on who to issue an item too.

The social amenities and the welfare support provided to soldiers in OP CABRIT is fantastic.

We had great opportunities for adventure training and to visit

Field Hospital and all dependencies to carry out their functions within the SAIF SAREEA AO. Our dependencies were made up of units spread around all areas of Oman, from Duqm port area in the south where the Theatre Entry Group had a Role 1 facility to deal with everyday medical issues, through to the Air Base at Musannah, which also had elements requiring our support.

I thoroughly enjoyed the long weeks of work in the hot desert sun and it gave me an appreciation of how hard it can get doing “Med Log”. I look forward to putting my learning and experience to good use in the future.

OP TRENTON 5

By SSgt Taylor 84 MSS Jul 2018 saw six personnel under the command of SSgt Taylor from 84 Medical Supply Sqn (MSS) deploy on Op TRENTON 5 in South Sudan in order to

8 OP CABRIT offers many positive advantages for trade development

the communities in Estonia.

Overall OP CABRIT was a great operational package that for us came with lots of positive advantages for trade development by allowing us to work with a very diverse group of soldiers from various cap badges.

support the RAF Role 2 Hospital (R2H) in what is a UN Level 1 humanitarian crisis.

The very nature of South Sudan provided real austere challenges for 84 MSS and the supply chain where climatic conditions hindered much of our deployment. A fragile and protracted supply chain, much of which was dictated by the rainy season, ensured that we only received medical supplies (Cold Chain) every 60 days.

Midway through our tour, we received direction from PJHQ to drawdown the R2H and handover patient care to the Vietnamese Medics.

The planning and extraction of kit and equipment out of theatre proved challenging, requiring support from the UN and working with the Vietnamese to ensure a smooth transition. We will use the experience gained for future deployments.

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RLC TRADES: MOVEMENT CONTROLLER | THE SUSTAINER

By WO1 (Cdr) Rob Ladell, Head of Trade, Movement Control Movement Controllers (Mov Con) are found at every level across Defence and this niche trade is made up of under 600 regular and reserve soldiers.

This small cohort of specialised personnel are responsible for the planning, preparation and movement of personnel and materiel across the globe by all transport modes; road, rail, sea and air.

During 2018 the trade coordinated and controlled the movement of some 60,000 personnel across 130 countries; if you were to line up all the people, freight and vehicles it would stretch from London to Edinburgh with a little to spare.

Mov Con personnel work in a fast paced, high pressured and regulated environment that requires a flexible, proactive and ‘fixer like’ attitude.

Empowerment at every level is a given and even the most junior of soldiers has the authority to make decisions to influence the plan, to improve processes, safety and save money.

‘‘

During 2018 the trade coordinated and controlled the movement of some 60,000 personnel across 130 countries; if you were to line up all the people, freight and vehicles it would stretch from London to Edinburgh with a little to spare

Most recently the position of the trade as a keystone to Defence activity was showcased in two of the largest and ambitious exercises conducted in a generation; the peak of which saw some 25,000 soldiers deployed concurrently across the globe.

Ex SAIF SAREEA 3, involved the deployment of some 2,500 soldiers and 750 vehicles from 3 (UK) Division to the hot and sandy climate of Oman to work alongside 60,000 members of the Sultans armed forces. This clearly demonstrated our ability to deploy, sustain and recover at reach.

At the same time the planning, preparation and initial deployment of Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE was happening which involved the deployment of 1,600 personnel and 1,000 vehicles from 1 (UK) Division to the icy and snow-covered training areas of Norway.

A deployment test for the Mov Con trade as it included the complexity of planning and delivering movement from the UK to Norway using road and rail assets across a ‘line of communication’ some 1,130

An introduction to the defence ‘fixer’

8 Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 involved the deployment of some 2,500 soldiers and 750 vehicles from 3 (UK) Division

miles long. The hostile environment that Norway presented combined with the elongated supply routes tested the flexibility of the Mov Con teams; both in the deployed and headquarters (HQ) space.

These challenges included vessels being delayed, aircraft diverting into unplanned airfields due to bad weather and the difficulty of smoothing the often bureaucratic and differing customs requirements within the six countries along the routes.

During both these exercises Mov Con were employed throughout every stage; from the strategic planning conducted by HQ Fd Army, Permanent Joint HQ, Divisional and Brigade HQ and Defence Support Chain Operations & Movements (DSCOM), to the ‘on the ground’ executive work conducted by Regional Command, 29 and 17 Regts RLC. These, and many other overseas tasks, are conducted against a steady drumbeat of routine activity to support Defence; not least of which is delivering the Army rebasing plan, compassionate travel of some 835 personnel and 390-unit liaison and assurance audits.

2019 looks to be just as busy as 2018 with multiple large deployments including further use of the national and international rail networks in support of major exercises; demand for the trade’s skills is exponential and evidenced in the number of honours, awards and commendations received.

The diversity of the roles the trade finds itself in combined with the problem solving autonomy offered at a junior level means no two days in work; be it behind a desk or snow-covered railhead, are the same.

The fast-promotional speeds and unprecedented travel opportunities are also a bonus.

8 Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE involved planning and delivering movement from the UK to Norway using road and rail assets

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC TRADES: AMMUNITION TECHNICIAN

Life in EOD

By Sgt Richard Newe, 621 Squadron, 11 EOD My experience of life within an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Tp is fast paced and offers a huge variety of experiences.

One of the routine taskings for an EOD team on mainland UK is the collection of ammunition and explosives from police stations, a task that must be completed within seven days of police request.

The ammunition stored by the police is recovered in several different ways; during searches, by the public handing it in or during an EOD task. Regardless of how it has been recovered, the police need our support to dispose of it.

On a recent EOD task, I was required to recover various Small Arms Ammunition (SAA) and pyrotechnic natures. First, each item had to be inspected to ensure its safety mechanisms were suitable for storage and transport.

After getting through 35Kg of various SAA with no issue, we began inspecting the pyrotechnic natures. Having looked at a few items I noticed that one of the

AT2

By LCpl Billam, Course Mentor The Ammunition Technician Class 2 course is the first step in trade training for any potential Ammunition Technician. The course is six months long and attended by both Phase 2 and Phase 3 soldiers.

For the first seven weeks of the course trainees are based at the Defence Academy Shrivenham, there soldiers learn the principles and science behind ammunition design and explosive theory.

The remainder of training takes place at DEMS Training Regiment in Kineton and covers in detail, all current land service ammunition, how to store, inspect and manage it safely and how to dispose of it responsibly.

I had a good time on the course and particularly enjoyed the disposals phase, it was

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8 11 EOD&S Regt RLC conduct an average 2500 tasks per year

smoke grenades had degraded and decided the best course of action would be local disposal.

Identifying a suitable area to dispose of ammunition on public land can be difficult as some disposals require 100s of metres to be safely cordoned. Fortunately, after discussion with the police, it came to light that was a local disused quarry.

With the use of PE8; the current in-service high explosive, detonating cord and a detonator, we set up the disposal and retired to the firing point. With the cordon

based on the range at Kineton and proved to be a good break from the classroom before we did HAZMAT. I also made some good friends.

The Class 2 Course is academically rigorous, but very rewarding and ensures any potential Ammunition Technician is up to the standard required by Defence before being presented with a trade flash at graduation.

AT1

By Sgt Wilson, Ammunition Technical Tp Instructor After a minimum of three years as a Class 2 technician, completion of the Class 2 Training and Development Record and attaining the rank of substantive Corporal, we become eligible to attend the Class 1 course.

This course is five months long and is, currently, the final trade course that we must complete.

8 The Ammunition Technician Class 2 course is the first step in trade training for any potential Ammunition Technician

in place, I gave the order to carry out the controlled explosion.

Having now completed the EOD element of the task, we recovered back to the Tp location and then put our ammunition technical core skills to use by correctly packaging, marking and sealing the recovered ammunition to be safely stored prior to movement to QinetiQ at Shoeburyness. This is one of many varying tasks an EOD team is expected to do daily with 11 EOD&S Regt RLC conducting an average 2500 tasks per year.

It’s broken down into three main phases including Storage and Surveillance and Conventional Munition Disposal. We then move onto unexploded ordnance (UXO) disposal, where we learn how to identify and dispose of foreign ammunition and ammunition which has been found e.g. old grenades from WW2.

The final phase of the course is Munitions Incident Database (MIDS) investigations. This phase builds on everything we taught so far, renders safe procedures from the CMD phase, practical application of storage and all the technical details we have learnt in our careers. The course is intensive; however, it trains technicians how to carry out the duties of an AT for the remainder of their career. I have enjoyed conducting the explosive disposal of complex weapon systems.

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RLC TRADES: DRIVER AIR DESPATCHER | THE SUSTAINER

A year as an RLC Air Despatch Crew Commander

By Cpl Craig Harkess 2018 started with a deployment to Oman as part of a Short-Term Training Team (STTT), to coordinate plans for future training with the Royal Army of Oman and enable them to create their own Aerial Delivery capability.

Working as part of a small team and developing the plan for their aerial delivery capability was sure to be a highly rewarding task, but by no means an easy one! Following a series of briefs from our team it was obvious that an Air Despatch capability would be an asset to their army and so it was set that we would return to assist in development of their new trade.

Following my return to the UK, I had the pleasure of commanding a Section on the Tp’s BCS Exercise in Sennybridge. I was then posted to 381 Tp, from the Squadron Training Wing. This saw my role change from training new Air Despatchers to leading a crew both on the hangar floor with the preparation of stores and as the Commander of the crew on aircraft.

My first challenge in the Tp was being selected to deploy on Ex TARTAN SPIRIT, a week long tactical flying exercise in Scotland. I was responsible for ensuring all stores were correctly rigged, loaded and despatched, as well as leading the six-man crew that deployed for

the exercise – one of which was the Commanding Officer!

In a very busy exercise, we completed 20 drops over multiple sorties throughout the week, allowing one of the Ptes to gain the prestigious Air Despatch Brevet.

After a brief return to the Sqn lines and some well-earned summer leave, I redeployed to Oman, to deliver the training and development required for them to have their own Air Despatch capability. The language barrier was initially difficult to overcome as well as understanding the culture of the Omani Army and tailoring our training programme accordingly.

After the first few weeks we had found the right balance of theory and practical work and we proceeded to the training airdrops.

These drops were so successful that halfway through the exercise we had to order more parachutes from the UK to keep up with the demand.

After every successful drop there would instantly be a requirement to conduct an extra airdrop for another dignitary to observe.

8 Air Despatchers have delivered the training and development required for the Omani Army to have their own Air Despatch capability

It was an extremely challenging yet rewarding few months that culminated in the successful air drop of 16 tonnes of simulated ammunition from an Omani C-130 aircraft as part of the SAIF SAREEA 3 firepower demonstration, by all accounts stealing the show.

After returning, I quickly deployed to Toulouse on Ex FALCON AMARANTE in support of 3 PARA as the Detachment Commander with two flying crews and a DZ crew. A daunting task from the get go, we were informed that the earliest we would receive our equipment would be Wednesday; the drop was planned for 1000hrs Thursday morning!

After briefing my troops, I was pleased to see that they approached this task with the kind of resilience and vigour that over the years I have come to expect from all Air Despatchers. The working day carried on until 0300 except for the crew that were going to fly the sorties. On Thursday morning we successfully loaded the aircraft and subsequently completed two airdrops of quad bikes and trailers along with some simulated ammunition to 3 PARA. 8 Ex FALCON AMARANTE supported 3 PARA with two flying crews and a DZ crew

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC TRADES: SYSTEMS ANALYST

Deploying on Ex SAIF SAREEA

By WO2 Jason McConnell MBE Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 was a bilateral exercise conducted with the Sultan of Oman's Armed Forces. The Ex was defence’s main effort for 2018.

3XX requested L3 support for a Systems Analyst to undertake a recce in Mar 18. This recce was conducted by myself with CSS Gp (1 RLC), BG (1 Mercian) and 1 Sig Bde where concepts and plans were being forged from a blank canvas.

Given the dispersed nature of the locations for Ex SS3 a requirement to travel across the country was paramount to ensure suitable plans were being considered for all outstations.

Post recce, invitations to both JFCIS and Logistic working groups (PJHQ) enabled the Systems Analyst to add value to the bigger OPCIS picture or fundamentally utilise its own capability and operate independently to ensure greater logistical coverage across Oman on behalf of the users.

Two RLC Systems Analysts deployed to ExSS3; however, this was staged into two phases. Both Systems Analysts were continually surged to outstations to either setup their LogIS or to provide L3 support in resolving any problems with either network or applications.

A ground perspective

By SSgt Nicholas Burger I deployed on the 27 Jun 18 with the Theatre Enabling Group.

The main task prior to the Joint Logistical Supply Base (JLSB) being taken over by Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) from the Port of Duqm Company was to recce and establish where the TEG logistic entities wanted to setup their Logistic Information Systems Deployed Hardware (LIDH).

After the initial setup of the TEG a site visit to key Ex SS3 areas was conducted to obtain a greater understanding of the user’s aspirations for the deployment of LIDH pan Oman.

Forecasting when and where users would arrive in Oman in line 34

8 Once the work was completed, SHAFA had the largest foot print of LogIS in the region

8 Logistic Information Systems Deployed Hardware (LIDH) setup

with Intial/Full Operating Capability was necessary to ensure early engagement in our efforts to support LIDH. Once all the LIDH locations were established Cyber Compliance Checks were instigated by 591 SU and 215 MI Section. Systems Analyst support was divided North/South to provide maximum coverage for L3 Log IS support.

Ex SS3 ended for myself on the 10 Oct 18 after handing over my responsibilities to SSgt Nelson. The success of my deployment was steered by all groups and agencies that supported the effort of bringing the LIDH deployment together.

By SSgt Nicholas Nelson The TEG was established and all enabling troops filtered through the ROSM process before being released to their respective working locations.

I deployed to Shafa with the CSS Gp, with an objective of facilitating the LogIS infrastructure into what was going to be the largest of the UK Camps with in Oman.

The requirement and tempo for me initially was substantial as the user’s reliance on the Systems Analyst was high given the lack of exposure to the LogIS equipment’s being used.

Once completed Shafa had the largest foot print of LogIS in the region, roughly dispersed across a 4 square kilometre AOR, but was easier to manage as they were local.

As the fire power demo concluded, the tempo for the Systems Analyst increased dramatically to keep track of commodities as sites were closing and re-establishing at JLSB. Ex SS3 was an outright success for the Systems Analyst as further understanding of our capability from a planning, development and delivery standpoint are no longer understood by the few, but now by the many.

Increasing efforts will endure post this Ex to ensure we continue to demonstrate across Defence that LogIS and the RLC Systems Analyst continues to translate requirements and deliver critical logistic services to the Joint Force in the deployed space.

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RLC TRADES: PHOTOGRAPHER | THE SUSTAINER

By Cpl Tom Evans, Army Photographer 2018 was an extraordinary year for my post. I travelled to six different countries in order to show the public what their Army was doing.

These included operations in Poland and Estonia and Afghanistan, as well as overseas exercises in Kenya, Norway and Canada.

Photographers are at the forefront of the British Army.

We deploy for relatively short periods, sometimes at short notice, having to acclimatise to different environments quickly.

Army Photographers are the ultimate ‘Strategic Corporals’.

We have to understand the Army’s branding and deliver its messages to the public through video and still imagery.

Sometimes this involves storyboarding a video production in advance, but often it is done on the ground, knowing what to capture to show the public what their Army is all about.

We have some of the best cameras and associated equipment on the market.

Like all soldiers we have to make choices when it comes to packing equipment, balancing our ability to move fast, with the capabilities we want to have. It varies from task to task.

We see every job, every cap badge. Not when they are lined up awaiting inspection, but when they are at ease, working normally. This is a real privilege.

What I learned was that no matter what part of the Army you are in, everyone is grafting.

Public support gives an Army it’s morale, which is a component of its fighting power. But we also have a duty to document the stories of our soldiers for future generations, in the same way Army cameramen did in the First and Second World Wars.

The Army photographic trade has taken me all over the world. In 2016 I worked as the Prime Minister’s Photographer for six months, which took me to many countries including China and India. It genuinely is the best job in the world.

Capturing the true face of the Army

By Sgt Jamie Peters, Army Photographer I’ve been delivering a photography course over the last seven months which has taught trainees the basics of the trade from manual exposures all the way through to advanced lighting techniques.

The training was progressive and designed to equip trainees with the skills to progress in a digital age.

A mix of four RAF, Navy and civilian instructors usually deliver the course, but as this was an Army only one, I delivered all the training with another Army RLC Photographer, Sgt Dek Traylor, this meant we could deliver an Army specific version of the tri-service course.

I hadn't been an instructor prior to this so it was a challenge to do 28 weeks with lots of prep during the evenings. It was immensely rewarding seeing the difference from week one to week 28 and a proud moment when the trainees graduated.

In this information age, being able to capture images and video of what the Army does is vitally

8 Sgt Jamie Peters RLC captured some of the first British troops to leave Afghanistan and return home when the Helmand Province was handed over to Afghan forces

important at a strategic level.

Photos can sway public opinion, support key messages of the Army and Government, as well as showcase the Army on an international stage.

I don't think any other job within The RLC or even Army can offer as much variety as being an Army RLC Photographer. Once they take up post the new photographers will see and capture the full breadth of the Army from operations across the globe to ceremonials with the Royal Family.

I joined the trade from the Royal Engineers in 2011 as a Lance Corporal. My two highlights to date were the Combat Camera Team on Op HERRICK 17 in Afghanistan and Op GRITROCK in Sierra Leone during the Ebola outbreak.

Nothing really compares to the feeling when you see one of your photographs on the front page of The Times or video footage on the ITN News. I get paid to do my hobby, what's not to love about that.

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC TRADES: VEHICLE SUPPORT SPECIALIST

Transferable skills

By Cpl Dellar, 17 P&M Regt I originally enlisted into the British Army in 2004 and joined the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards. After spending 12 years as a Guardsman I decided to retrain with many options open to myself I decided to join The RLC as a VSS in late 2016.

Once transferred into the VSS trade I was assigned to 17 P&M Regt RLC at Marchwood and started my new career by completing my Driver and VSS Class 3 courses.

During my time at 17 RLC, I have been on various Port Task Groups and deployed to BATUS in support of Ex PRAIRIE PHOENIX and have also upgraded to a VSS Class 1.

One of the main reasons about the re-trade was the variation of the job and locations. The VSS has a lot to offer and I have completed all my Driving Licenses, HAZMAT and numerous other courses which are all transferrable to the civilian sector.

Multiple vehicle training

By Cpl Killey, 17 P&M Regt I joined the VSS trade from Phase two training in 2010 and I’ve now been a VSS for nine years.

I didn’t believe I would see as much of the world as I have done since joining, from visiting places in Europe to travelling to Canada, America, Falkland Islands and Africa.

But it was the vehicles that attracted me the most to the trade. When I was told you could be trained on every vehicle the Army has to offer including the likes of the Challenger II, Warrior, AS90 and Buffalo, I found it hard to turn the opportunity down.

On my FMT I have been trained on at least 30 different types of vehicles including A B and C variants.

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An evolving trade

By WO1 (Cdr) “Jethro” Davies, Head of Trade VSS

In my first submission to the Sustainer and the first VSS article in a number of years, I would like to start off with thanking all current VSS and VS (Reserves) for your hard work and dedication since taking the helm. The VSS role has changed immensely over the years, however I am proud of what the trade has evolved into.

The trade has been undermanned over the last 12 months, but great work has been done to mitigate the manning shortage. We have seen

8 The VSS Section has been supporting Op Shader unloading and loading aircraft of various vehicles arriving into Theatre

the last Class 3 course fully attended and various personnel from different cap badges re-trading into the Trade.

But there is still work to do and I will be looking at a recruitment drive in the next four to six months.

Currently WO2 Marcus Collings is working on creating the VSS SNCO course, which should be piloted in Training Year 19/20.

High pressure environment

By Sgt Frobisher On 28 Jun 18 I deployed with a three-man team from 17 P&M Regt RLC to support 9 RLC on Ex SS3 where I was one of the Sgts in command of the VSS Section within RV Troop as part of the Theatre Enabling Group (TEG).

My team and I, including personnel from 9 RLC, worked with TEG HQ to run a Vehicle Control Centre (VCC), responsible for the receipt, storage and the onward movement of approximately 1300 vehicles and associated platforms

8 In Oman VSS’s have offloaded six Strat RoRo’s worth of vehicles on a semi austere port

throughout the Force Maintenance Area (FMA). During the four months I spent in Oman we offloaded six Strat RoRo’s worth of vehicles on a semi austere port in extreme heat and wind.

Making sure we got the job done safely and efficiently meant operating in an intense highpressure environment, but I thoroughly enjoyed the challenges SS3 presented.

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RLC TRADES: TANK TRANSPORTER | THE SUSTAINER

By LCpl Kings, DTTO Class 3 Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 was an interoperability exercise between the British Military and Omani Forces where 19 Tank Transporter Squadron, 27 Regiment RLC, deployed to provide a heavy lift capability to the lead armoured Battle Group that deployed from 1 Armoured Infantry Brigade.

I was part of a troop strength of Driver Tank Transporter Operators (DTTOs) along with several Sponsored Reservists, who regularly deploy with the Squadron.

The initial workload started with moving equipment on its arrival from the ROROs at Duqm Port to the main Joint Logistic Support Base (JLSB). There was a variety of different loads moved, from CVRT to MBT and even ISO containers along with the infamously large Rough Terrain Container Handler (RTCH) used to load them.

The next task was to ensure the fleet of fourteen HET’s were fully serviceable and ready to use at the Battle Group’s disposal. This was extremely challenging due to the hot climate and extremely critical timings which had to be met.

New orders came in to move heavy armour from the JSLB to the main exercising assembly area at

Life on the Oman road

8 Moving CR2 over challenging ground

Shafa Camp which involved me and my co-driver sharing the driving on journeys lasting up to 12 hours each way under testing conditions dealing with heat and demanding road conditions.

These moves enabled me to fully understand my role as a DTTO and identify what equipment the Battle Group had to play with.

After the live fire power demonstration, the main effort for us was to recover the heavy armour and artillery back to JLSB. Due to some heavy use over the exercise there were several dead loads unable to drive onto our

My First Tank Transporter Tour

By Pte Longman I am Pte Longman, ‘Millie’ to my friends and I’m a 23-year-old Tank Transporter Operator. I volunteered to deploy on Op CABRIT in Estonia to gain more military experience and to further my trade knowledge.

My initial thoughts of the camp in Tapa were to expect a basic set-up with minimal infrastructure and welfare facilities. However, when I arrived in Estonia I was pleasantly surprised.

The facilities on the camp blew my expectations away, we have a CV gym in the block just a floor below my room, with the British gym a two-minute walk away.

There are saunas available to use in the bathrooms, a TV, vending machines in the block and air conditioning in all the rooms.

8 Pte Longman celebrates her birthday on tour

There’s also a movie night every Friday in the auditorium showing movies that have just been

8 LCpl Kings on the ground

trailers, this meant pulling the winches out and conducting several winch jobs.

This was extremely testing in the heat but gave us a great sense of achievement once the HETs were ready for the road. released or are still in the cinema.

I’ve only been here for a short while, but I have already learned so much and gained a lot of confidence in my job, something I was lacking prior to coming out here.

Since I became a Driver Tank Transporter Operator, I have only driven in the UK on the left-hand side in a right-hand drive vehicle, but out here you drive the same right-hand drive vehicle on the opposite side of the road. This was daunting at first but with practice I have become comfortable doing it.

One of my favourite drags so far was taking a Challenger 2 down to the city of Tartu for a public event.

It was challenging and exciting at the same time as I had to unload the tank in the city centre on a busy main street surrounded by locals with their cameras.

To conclude, it’s my first tour and I’m away from my family and friends, but I have settled in well and I’m happy with my work.

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RLC SAILING 2019 Ex WEST EXPRESS 13 – 17 MAY 2019 A sail experience week for soldiers and officers of The RLC running from JSASTC, Gosport. Novices and experienced sailors both welcome. A great opportunity for service personnel of all ranks to be introduced to offshore sailing!

Initial upfront cost of only £20 pp.

Ex ALGARVE WATCH 10 APR 2019 – 2 OCT 2019 (Limited availability remaining) Charter The RLC Corps yacht Spirit of St George on the Portuguese Coast. Based along the Algarve coast with easy access to fantastic sailing areas in the warmer climates.

Charters run from Wednesdays for a seven-day period.

Charter costs are £900.00 per week.

Full adventure training clearance has been approved with limited funding to make a smoother organising package for chartering units.

For more information on both packages see the RLC website: www.rlcsailingassociation.com Or email: Alistair.Coe101@mod.gov.uk

ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

Ex WASHINGTON RECOVERY 2018

By SSgt Ben Groves, Ammunition Technician Oct 2018 saw a team of four Wounded Injured and Sick (WIS) individuals from the Personnel Recovery Unit for Scotland and Northern Ireland (PRU S&NI) compete in the 43rd United States Marine Corps Marathon in Arlington, Virginia, Washington DC. The marathon is an annual event hosted by the Allied Forces Foundation (AFF), the UK host the Cateran Yomp each summer in Perth, Scotland. The AFF is a British-American foundation established to recognise and further the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom, working to raise awareness and funding for allied wounded and their families affected by the conflicts of Iraq and Afghanistan.

Pre-marathon Arriving tired and weary the team were ushered away from Dulles airport on a Department of Defence (DoD) Bluebird bus to a homely and comfortable inn on the outskirts of Quantico Marine Corps base. It was an upgrade from previous years when personnel were accommodated on the base in 60 man ‘Full Metal Jacket’ style barrack blocks minus the drill sergeant.

With just a few hours sleep it was a wake up to a still warm bus for a long drive to visit the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) building where all personnel were treated to a very informative ‘show and tell’ presentation on the history

8 All personnel gave everything they had, and all finished the marathon with times to be extremely proud off

of Improvised Explosive Devices (IED’s) used in recent terrorist attacks. There was also an opportunity to get ‘hands on’ with a comprehensive display of weapon systems including a minigun!

In the afternoon we found ourselves at Arlington Cemetery and had the honour to witness the Sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Saturday was marathon registration day at the Gaylord National resort in DC followed by a carb loading pasta lunch at Washington Union Station. None of the UK WIS personnel competing are able to run a marathon distance and so were allocated a hand cycle sourced by the AFF International Hand Cycling Team.

The cycles were old, had seen better days and creaked enough to raise concerns. But in true ‘Tommy’ style, all made the best of a bad lot, patched them up with black nasty and loaded them onto the trailer in preparation for the big day.

Race day Sunday 28 Oct was race day! And with a horrendously early start at a time that should only ever been seen once in a day, personnel boarded the faithful Bluebird for the long drive to the start line.

Full of excitement and trepidation, all prepared for what was to come and fell asleep at the back of the bus.

Lined up at the start line the hand cyclists were waved off by a fly over from an MV-22 Osprey, Marine 1 and a slightly unnecessarily loud canon fire. All personnel gave everything they had, and all finished the marathon with times to be extremely proud off. The AFF provide Physical & Mental Rehabilitation through Marathons and Sport and this was no exception. All personnel gained an enormous boost in their wellbeing by completing this challenge through adapted sports.

Since completing the marathon, two personnel are seeking funding for their own handcycles on which to compete at future events and one has secured a fully funded place at the Big Battlefield Bike Ride in 2019 with Help for Heroes.

Overall, it was an unbelievable experience that helped cement to all the WIS exactly what could be possible through adapted sports. A huge gratitude of thanks is owed to all who provided funding including RHQ RLC, various welfare funds and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

8 Lined up at the start line the hand cyclists were waved off by a fly over from an MV-22 Osprey, Marine 1 and a slightly unnecessarily loud cannon fire

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE In late summer 2018, 17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC deployed two teams to support 3 Commando Brigade on Amphibious Task Group 18 (ATG 18). This was a four-month deployment to Albania, Oman and Qatar on RFA Lyme Bay and MV Anvil Point, which showcases the Regt’s unique capabilities.

The first phase of the exercise involved the Regt deploying two Mexeflotes and a Combat Support Boat (CSB) onto RFA Lyme Bay and an Army Work Boat (AWB) and an Enhanced Ramp Support Pontoon (ERSP) onto MV Anvil Point prior to sailing to Plymouth to embark Royal Marines (RM). Along with the marines, three RM Land Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) and eight Offshore Loading Craft (ORC) were also embarked.

Ex ALBANIAN LION Ex ALBANIAN LION is a NATO exercise which saw British Forces working alongside their counterparts from Albania, Croatia and Slovakia.

The team supported British RM and Albanian commandos conducting raids from LCAC’s and ORCs. These demanding operations were conducted during the day and the night, in all weather conditions, which showcased the capability and determination of the team. Credit must be given to the team’s Port Operators, who operated the ships’ cranes. Further to this, the 17 Regt team trialed the deployment of ORCs into the water by using a JCB to push an experimental 8 The Mexeflote loading the Medic team’s vehicles before transiting back to RFA Lyme Bay

40

Ex ALBANIAN LION

trailer from RAF Lyme Bay. The team excelled in this challenging environment and managed to get all the RM craft in the water in an efficient and timely manner.

While the Port Operators were busy, the crew launched Inflatable Raiding Craft (IRC) from the Mexeflote. It was also being used as a pontoon to load personnel on and off the LCACs and ORCs. The final raid saw the Mexeflote being used to its full potential bringing the medical team vehicles from the shore to RFA Lyme Bay. This was a great opportunity for the 17 Regt detachment to demonstrate the Mexeflote’s full capability to the British and Albanian Forces embarked on board the ships.

Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 With Ex ALBION LION complete, the detachment sailed through the Suez Canal to join Ex SAIF

8 Port Operators operating RFA Lyme Bay’s crane to put a RM LCAC in the water

SAREEA 3 (Ex SS3). During this transition, the team became the ships’ force protection. Manning the ships’ defence systems, which include 50 Caliber heavy machine guns and Miniguns, is a unique opportunity for anyone in the British Army as they are the only protection for the ships as they go past some of the most dangerous countries in the world. Once both ships had made their way to Oman they joined HMS Albion to provide the amphibious assault package for Ex SS3. This saw all the craft 17 Regt had deployed, fully utilised to help land the RM fighting forces and their heavy equipment and vehicles onto beaches enabling them to move forward from the beach to engage with the enemy.

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ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

Ex SEAHORSE CENTURY 2018 The second half of 2018 saw numerous visits and events in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One. Ex SEAHORSE CENTURY saw 40 soldiers from 165 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC and 17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC deploy to north west France to conduct a battle field study. In the centenary year of the end of the Great War, where strong partnerships led to the eventual defeat of Imperial Germany, it was apt that the week should see stronger bonds established between two counterpart units of The RLC. A busy programme was supplemented by knowledgeable and engaging historians from HQ South West and saw the team visit the Somme, Arras, Le Hamel, Cambrai and St. Omer to learn more about the conflicts of the First World War and to commemorate the incredible sacrifice made by so many. Some highlights included a trip to the Serre Road Cemetery N02 where WO2 Tim Merrel was able to visit the grave of his great uncle who was laid to rest during the war. At the Longuenesse Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery, the youngest member of the study group, Pte Anderson from 17 Regt, was given the honour of laying a wreath at the grave of the

8 Above: Ex SEAHORSE CENTURY saw 40 soldiers from 165 Port and Maritime Regt and 17 Port and Maritime Regt deploy to North West France to conduct a battle field study

8 Wreath laying

youngest RASC soldier, to lose his life during the battle of St. Omar The group visited Flesquierse to study the fierce tank battles which occurred one hundred years ago.

165 Regt has proud historical links to this battle ground as its very vehicle squadron, 142 Vehicle Squadron, The Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars, fought in the area. The Yeomanry was sent there after only one month’s training by non-other than Winston Churchill; he was a Major in the unit and had served as First Lord of the

Admiralty. Coincidently, a local remembrance ceremony was taking place in the nearby village and the locals were only too happy to invite the group to join in.

Additionally, the local Mayor invited 165 Regt’s Commanding Officer, Lt Col Hampton-Stone, to join him in laying a wreath at Flesquierse cemetery cenotaph.

Once the wreath laying had finished the group visited the site of the battle of St Quentin canal. The battle involved British, Australian and American forces operating under the British Fourth Army. They eventually breached the Hindenburg Line, which signalled the beginning of the end of the war for Germany. It was also very poignant that it was one hundred years to the day that this action took place.

The battle field study was a superb opportunity for all the members of 165 and 17 Regts to increase their understanding of warfare and doctrinal development; paying particular attention to the role and importance of logistics on the battle fields of the First World War. Lessons which are still pertinent one hundred years later.

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THE SUSTAINER | VETERANS

8 L-R: Lt Col & Mrs Len Clifford, Brig & Mrs Brian Ridley, Col Mike Hughes and Lt Col David Morgan at the curry lunch 7 Sep 2018

President: Brig (Retired) R A Hood QVRM TD DL Chairman: Lt Col L Clifford TD It does seem an anathema to the active military, but the period between our AGM & dinner night in Apr and our autumn luncheon on 7 Sep, has been devoid of club activities. However, this lacuna was ended with a superb curry luncheon held in the library at the Army & Navy Club. The Club embodies all the military traditions and its ambiance is second to none. The staff looked after us very well and our meal was excellent. It really is good to get together in good fellowship and friendship.

Three of our members were honoured in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in Jun 2018. There are: KCB: Lt Gen Sir Mark Poffley KCB OBE KCVO: Maj Gen Sir Martin White KCVO CB CBE JP OBE: Maj His Honour Raymond Naqvi OBE TD Many congratulations to these members recognised for their service to the Crown.

Whilst the Waggon Club has had a period of inactivity, some of our members have been very busy, notably: 4 Lt Col Edward Waite-Roberts TD, Majors John Butler and Alison Shaw with the Corps Heritage Collection of vehicles and horses during an excursion to Belgium in Sept.

4 Maj Patrick Marsland-Roberts TD, and Master Carman, took members of his Guild and their partners to Lincolnshire for dinner at Prince William of Gloucester 42

8 L-R: Lt Col & Mrs Stephen Haywood, Col Mike Hughes at the curry lunch 7 Sep 2018

Barracks where they experienced the great tradition of hospitality for which this camp is known and loved by those who have served there. They stayed at the hotel which stands on the site where, in World War One, the Machine Gun Corps was founded and trained. A double dose of military history. As Master Carman, Maj Marsland-Roberts also held a very successful “Cart Marking” ceremony in the City of London to which many military personnel were invited.

4 Lt Col Colin Thomas TD VR undertook a bicycle ride from London to Paris to raise funds for

8 Lt Col Colin Thomas TD VR cycle ride

the Royal British Legion. He raised a considerable amount of money for this worthwhile cause.

The Membership Secretary backed him on behalf of The Waggon Club to complete this gruelling journey.

2019 planning is already well ahead of schedule with our chairman booking suitable venues for functions. Indeed, we already have had several offers of presentations in respect of various military subjects for our spring lecture and social evening.

Of course, not all members can attend every event which is why we have four meetings every year to give as wide an opportunity as possible to those who lead very busy and active lives. Our year closes with a much appreciated Christmas luncheon which, this year, will be held in the Cavalry & Guards Club in London.

8 Enquiries from qualified officers regarding joining The Waggon Club should be addressed to: Lt Col R A Pow TD, 6 Croft Close, TONBRIDGE, Kent, TN10 4LA or robertpow@blueyonder.co.uk

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RLC FOUNDATION | THE SUSTAINER On 7 Nov 18, the fourth annual RLC Foundation Awards Dinner was held at the HQ Officers’ Mess at Deepcut. The MGL, Lt Gen Sir Mark Poffley KCB OBE hosted the event. 105 serving military and civilian partners attended. The principal aim of The RLC Foundation is to encourage professional development and thought leadership by engaging with industry and academia.

The Awards programme, recognises significant achievements in line with both these aims.

Without generous sponsorship from our industry partners this would not be possible. We would like to thank all our sponsors and Kuehne & Nagel for sponsoring the Awards Dinner programme.

The award winners and runners up were: • The RLC Foundation Mentoring Support Award – Sponsor: Royal Mail – Winner: WO1 Shaun Broom, Logistics Training and Development Team. Runner-Up: Capt James Boyce, 1 Regt RLC. Citation: WO1 Broom provides dedicated logistic training assurance to all regular and nonregular RLC units. His role is vital to maintaining the professional and technical development of our soldiers and ensuring competence and operational capability.

• The RLC Foundation Industry Professional Development Award – Sponsor: Kuehne & Nagel – Winner: Mr Shay Cooper, The Goring Hotel.

Runner-Up: Ernst & Young.

Citation: Mr Shay Cooper is the Executive Head Chef at the Goring Hotel, Belgravia, London.

He has successfully integrated RLC Chefs into his Michelin Starred kitchen and we are in no doubt that his mentoring and support was instrumental in our Chefs achieving the Gold award at last year’s inter-services catering competition.

• The RLC Foundation Regional Partnership Award – Sponsor: General Dynamics – Winner: Royal Mail Group. Runners-Up: The Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Drivers and Versilia Solutions.

Citation: Alongside the BFPO, the Royal Mail Group provides vital

RLC FOUNDATION AWARDS DINNER 2018

communications services to our service personnel and their families, enabling them to stay in touch wherever they may be serving. It is a strong supporter of the Armed Forces Covenant and employs in excess of 250 reservists.

• Best Professional Article in the RLC Foundation Review Magazine 2018 – Sponsor: DHL: Winner Capt Tom Saddleton, 10QOGLR. Runner-Up: 2Lt Rob Abernethy, 27 Regt RLC. Article Title – Toxic leadership – can it truly be cut out of the military?

• The RLC Foundation Thought Leadership Award- Sponsor: Babcock – Winner: Kuehne & Nagel. Runner-Up: DHL. Citation: Kuehne & Nagel is a founding corporate partner of the Foundation. Its contribution to both our officers and soldiers has been truly outstanding and DHL has supported numerous Foundation events and are staunch supporters of the Armed Forces Covenant.

• The RLC Foundation Junior Initiative Award – Sponsor FSL Winner - Lt Jake Ardley, 3 Regt RLC. Runner-Up: LCpl David Battey, 3 Regt RLC. Citation: In recognition of the formation of the RLC 25 years ago, Lt Ardley organised an expedition to the Lake District to climb the 25 highest peaks. The expedition was a resounding

success and the positive social media it attracted enhanced the reputation of The RLC within the civilian community and within wider military circles.

• The RLC Foundation Apprentice of the Year 2018 – Sponsor Leidos - Winner Pte Nishan Singh, 27 Regt RLC. Runner-Up: Cpl Jason Platts, 5 Med Regt, RLC attached.

Citation: Pte Singh has displayed professional dedication and an unwavering focus to achieve his Apprenticeship at a consistently high standard. Immensely proactive and motivated, Pte Singh epitomises what can be achieved through the Apprenticeship scheme to enhance both professional standards and personal development.

Many congratulations to both the winners and runners-up for their outstanding achievements in 2018. The Awards nomination process for 2019 will be promulgated to the chain of command in Feb 2019 and will be posted on the Foundation website.

Readers are encouraged to identify suitable candidates who can be nominated for their achievements.

For further information, contact: Alan Woods – Alan.woods195@ mod.gov.uk and Chrissie Ross Chrissie.Ross100@mod.gov.uk.

Website: www.rlcfoundation.com We are also on Facebook & Linkedin.

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THE SUSTAINER | MUSEUM Why do The RLC’s officers and WO1s wear spurs with their mess kit?

I remember being asked this question once and being a little unsure of my answer. Thus, the purpose of this article is to look at The RLC’s long and very close association with the horse and horse drawn transport. Of note are the many horse related trades we once had and the vast number of horses we were once responsible for.

It all started in 1794 with the Corps of Royal Waggoners, the Army’s first ‘Logistic Soldiers’, who were raised specifically to drive horse drawn waggons in support of the Flanders Campaign. Their name was changed in 1802 to the Royal Waggon Train and it was this organisation that supported The Duke of Wellington, by providing horse drawn logistic support throughout the Peninsular Campaign and at the Battle of Waterloo, winning the Corps its first two Battle Honours (Peninsular and Waterloo).

In 1856, just after the Crimean War, The Land Transport Corps consisting of 9,000 men and 24,000 horses was reduced in size to 1,200 men. Organised into six battalions, it was renamed the Military Train. It was eventually reduced further and organised into troops, with each troop having a Captain, Trumpeter, Harness Maker, Farrier, Sergeant Wheeler, Smith and 56 Privates, with eight assorted General Service (GS) waggons and 41 horses. The soldiers were specifically selected for their ability to work with horses and the troops served during campaigns in India, China, New Zealand and Canada, winning two

8 F Marrison ASC 1906

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Museum Musings

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

of our VC’s and two more battle honours in the process (Pekin and Taku Forts).

In 1891, the Army Remount Service depots, responsible for supplying horses to the Army, were run by the Army Service Corps (ASC). Each depot had an ASC company with a Quartermaster, Sergeant Major, Farrier Sergeant, three Sergeants, Corporals and Lance Corporals, four Shoeing Smiths and 50 Privates. The depots were based at Woolwich, Melton Mowbray, Aborfield and Dublin, with a couple more overseas, although this number quickly increased during WW1.

In WW1, the British Army had over 600,000 horses, the vast majority being used by ASC Horse Transport (HT) companys for pulling waggons within the supply chain, as no other vehicle was more adept at crossing rough terrain or rutted roads near the front line.

Horses were also used in large numbers by the Royal Horse Artillery and Royal Field Artillery and other units such as the Cavalry.

In 1921, the RASC still had 31 HT Coys equipped with GS Waggons, although these were slowly reduced and replaced by Motor Transport (MT) Companys, with the last HT Coy being disbanded in 1929. Fortunately, the animal

8 The RLC has a long and close association with the horse and horse drawn transport transport skills were retained at the RASC training centre in Aldershot, where RASC and RCT officers were taught to ride right up to its closure in the late 1960s.

During WW2, the RASC reverted to using animal transport in Cyprus and in Italy, where 45,000 mules and horses were formed into Pack Transport Companys. The RASC in Burma, in support of the Chindits, used horses and mules to carry supplies along jungle paths, although oxen and even some elephants were pressed into service.

The traditions and long association of The RLC with horses and horse transport are kept alive today by the RLC Coaching Board (http://www.rlcheritage.co.uk/) who will be storing their many waggons, coaches and carts for public display in the new RLC Museum at Worthy Down.

In conclusion, our officers and WOs wear spurs to honour and remember the thousands of our forebears, who rode horses, drove carts and pulled waggons, across many continents, during countless wars and often in terrible conditions.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BICESTER CO: Lt Col N Crew OBE • Adjt: Capt C Campbell • RSM: WO1 Z Sharif It’s been a particularly busy period for 1 Regiment RLC, with a large focus on supporting 1 MERCIAN Battle Group (BG) on Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 in Oman. As the lead CSS Unit, the Regt formed the CSS Gp HQ and commanded troops from several units, delivering second line support to the land component.

2 CS Sqn deployed as the Log Sqn conducting road moves in convoys of up to 40 vehicles, covering over 400km daily in temperatures up to 40 degrees. As well as the real time deployment enabling activity to set the force, the exercise phase also provided a challenging environment to test driver skills and junior leadership.

23 GS Sqn deployed a Stores Tp to manage the large GS account and Bde Log RV at Shafa Camp. A plethora of other specialist enablers from 74 HQ Sqn also deployed to support various CSS Gp functions throughout the theatre. During the exercise the CSS Gp contributed to the movement of over 1000 vehicles and containers, racking up an impressive 800,000km driven.

The experience gained from operating in a Joint Force of over 5000 UK and 60,000 Omani personnel in a demanding environment, at reach, has provided invaluable experience and lessons learned to all participants.

In the UK, the remainder of the Regt was equally busy supporting a myriad of tasks, as well as continuing to develop military skills and competing in sports events.

The Regt deployed soldiers and officers to no fewer than six countries, including a deployment to Belize to support Ex MAYAN STORM. The Regt deployed a Tp to provide support for the 101 Log Bde exercise, Ex IRON PYTHON, delivering both logistic support and OPFOR functions to help facilitate the exercise. Concurrent to this, the Regt deployed a further Tp to provide the lead for Ex LOG SAFARI, and teams to support Ex DYNAMIC VICTORY, Ex PRAIRIE

PHEONIX, Ex HERMES PEAK and Ex JAYWALKER. While deployed on these tasks, 12 CS Sqn also took the lead for the Regt’s team at The RLC Military Skills Competition in September, where under the leadership of Lt Henry Clayton-Hatfield, the team obtained a top third finish. The regimental Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL team led by Lt Charlie Bevan, also put in a great performance and received a bronze medal in the world-renowned arduous patrols competition.

In Nov, the Regt also participated in the 100-year anniversary of Remembrance commemoration events. A team under the leadership of Cpl Cole managed to help collect over £11,000 at Kings Cross Station on Remembrance Sunday itself and 12 CS Sqn took

8 Bicester Remembrance the lead on the parade in Bicester town centre.

On the sporting front 12 CS Sqn sent a team of ten individuals to The RLC 25 Squash Championships.

All team members played well but a special mention goes to SSgt Johnson, who was the runner up in the female individual category. Over the same period, a team under the leadership of LCpl Baildon competed in the RLC Swimming and Water Polo Championship.

The team managed to win eight medals, three of which were gold.

This busy period has empowered soldiers at every rank to ‘step up’, enhancing the development of personal trade skills and providing the perfect opportunity to develop the leadership skills to shine in the Army. Furthermore, the Regt’s soldiers at every rank continue to represent The RLC and Army, in a myriad of sports and competitions.

Looking forward into 2019 the Regt will use the valuable skills and experience gained to take on all challenges that come its way and to continue to develop its ‘Team First’ ethos.

8 Collection at Kings Cross Station

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

3 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col S Cooke • Adjt: Capt A Thompson • RSM: WO1 M Robertson In Nov 2018, a cohort of 30 officers and soldiers from 3 Regiment RLC travelled to Northern France and Belgium to examine the Hundred Day Campaign (Last 100 Days of WW1), with specific focus on the less understood area of logistics.

By studying both the allied and enemy perspectives, this battlefield study explored 41 key themes including: logistical implications and modern-day lessons, the integration of combined arms, the importance of training and innovation of technologies and tactics which enabled 3 Regt to draw lessons of contemporary relevance. This study also provided an opportunity to provoke thought and professional discussion in the lead up to the week in France with visiting lectures from Andy Robertshaw and Dr Nick Lloyd.

The study started with a visit to Mons, where we received an overview of the Great War from a local Belgian historian. Focus then switched to 1918 for the remaining four days. The Battle of Amiens, which represents the beginning of the Hundred Day Campaign, has a good claim to be the turning point on the Western Front and the troops conducted a TEWT from the Australian Forces vantage point at Le Hamel. It was here we studied the BEF weapon systems and the associated logistical system during this battle and the preceding battle at Le Hamel.

The battles for the Hindenburg Line were then covered in outline, with focus on the 2nd Battle of the Sambre near Ors, where Lt Wilfred Owen MC lost his life. This showed the British Expeditionary Force at its most potent as it demonstrated combined arms synchronised and simultaneous set piece attacks.

The conclusion of the study was spent analysing and discussing the evolution of motor and horse transport, where we visited the War Horse Memorial at Chipilly.

In the year that celebrated the centenary of the end of the First 46

World War and The RLC’s quarter century, interest and relevance to the development of modern armies remains, with many lessons to be understood by the present day professional soldier logistician. This timely battlefield study enabled its participants and the wider Regt to reflect on the sacrifices made during the Great War. Mud, sweat and tears In Dec 2018, the Regt held an intersquadron competition, which tested teamwork, quick thinking, fitness and military knowledge. At the start of the race the Sqns received two burdens to carry around the course and an IC and 2IC were chosen at random to take command of their Sqn. The winners would be determined by the fastest time.

After a tough warm up on the assault course, the teams followed the route around the airfield and encountered three checkpoints. The first stand, ran by the LAD, imitated a land rover tyre that needed replacing. With no input from SNCOs or officers, the soldiers had to work as a team to complete the task in the time given.

Following a gruelling and muddy route to the second checkpoint,

8 War Horse Chipilly teamwork and communication knowledge was tested. This was also JNCO and below led. With fatigue starting to set in, the ICs and 2ICs had to motivate their teams for the final push. The last checkpoint imitated a RTI with multiple casualties. With all-round defence placed out and the casualties being appropriately triaged and treated, the Sqns had to get a casualty as quickly as possible back to the start of the competition.

Once all the Sqns were back, the CO and RSM, WO1 paraded the Regiment to announce the winners.

Congratulations went to the LAD who came first and 35 HQ Sqn who followed behind them in second place.

8 LAD came first in the inter-squadron competition

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col C I Hanson • Adjt: Capt M J Ruocco • RSM: WO1 D Phillips In Nov 2018, 4 Regiment RLC deployed on 101 Logistic Brigade’s Ex IRON PYTHON. This was the first time many had seen the Regt deploy in its entirety and all the frictions that come from that. The Regt received a huge uplift in its vehicle fleet, collecting vehicles from our reserve units as well as the land training fleet. This proved an interesting but worthwhile venture, allowing the Regt to deploy almost its entire ORBAT. Once deployed, the CS Sqns settled into the routine of conducting nightly resupply operations, sending DPs out and moving through the BSG. All this was conducted in AOs we would likely work in and from, during any contingent deployment.

At different times during the exercise, the Regt occupied an area in Redcar Steelworks, an old munitions factory at Dalbeattie, various infrastructure in Hartlepool Port and aspects of the Durham and Tees Valley International Airport. All these introduced the Regiment to operations in the congested and contested environment.

The focus of the exercise from a CS Sqn point of view, was to trial some innovative new tactics that had been long discussed. The aim was for the tactical action to be section commander led, allowing more responsibility and freedom within the mission and remoting command elements to satellite positions. Despite challenges in

8 The Regt Alpine Team

command and control, as well as the increasing complexity of the scenarios encountered, the JNCOs took on the challenge with aplomb. It was a great environment, providing the freedom to test new procedures and conduct thorough AARs to assess how junior commanders handled the change of TTPs. Throughout the exercise 33 GS Sqn deployed the custodial account, maintaining real time support to 12 Brigade, as well as exercise play support to the Regt. All told, the exercise was a real success.

Winter Sport The regimental Alpine team took a group of seven to the Corps’ training camp held in Hemsedal, Norway, for two weeks. Here they were put through their paces having never raced before and, in some cases, having never even put skis on before.

This was a great opportunity for personnel across the Regt to learn something new and challenging and to visit a different part of the world.

The conditions were perfect if a little too cold, hitting minus 20 degrees most days! This has set the Regt up well for the upcoming Corps Championships, Ex SKI RLC, to be held in Ruhpolding in Feb 2019.

In Dec 2018, the Regt’s Nordic ski

8 The Regt Nordic Team

team deployed on Ex KNEES STRETCH in Obertilliach, Austria.

With most of those deployed having never touched skis before, they performed extremely well. The team made great progress, thanks to the busy training schedule, learning and perfecting this challenging sport.

GURTAM inclusion Since the first tranche of Gurkhas arrived in the summer, they have continually integrated themselves into 60 Sqn and the wider Regt, going from strength to strength.

The Nepalese community in Abingdon celebrated their Dashain festival on the camp in what was an excellent event celebrating Nepalese culture and values.

The Colonel of the Brigade of Gurkhas visited the Regt in Oct 2018 with Commander QOGLR, to meet the soldiers and see how well they are fitting into life in Dalton Barracks.

They left very impressed with the attitude of both the Gurkhas and serving British personnel in terms of integration. The future of the Sqn looks positive with more Gurkha soldiers due before it finally re-badges under QOGLR.

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DISHFORTH CO: Lt Col L Green • Adjt: Capt T Furlong • RSM: WO1 J Sumner

The last quarter has been a busy one for 6 Regiment. Most recently, the Regt’s snowboard team has been away competing at the Corps Championship in Flachau, Austria.

Team members competed in three main disciples: Slalom, Slopestyle and Bordercross. The open team made up of Lt Morris, SSgt Le, Pte De Carteret and Pte Matafonau came third overall. SSgt Le was Best Overall Female Open Rider and won all three disciples. Pte Matafonau won silver in the Slalom.

The novice team made up of Pte Davidson, Pte Brown, Pte Hayward and Pte Marchinton also came third in the Novice category.

Pte Davidson won all three events and took Best Overall Novice rider.

Both Pte Matafonau and Pte Davidson have been invited to compete at the Army Championships as part of the Corps team.

In addition to the snowboarders, the Regimental Ski Team has also been in action competing at the Divisional and Army Championships – more to follow on their progress in the next edition.

Particular recognition for the season so far must be given to LCpl Williams who was selected to represent the Corps team. He will now progress to race in International Biathlon Union races across Europe.

Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE 18 (62 Sqn) The Regt played host to BFBS during rehab of vehicles which had deployed on Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE and Ex WESSEX STORM. BFBS was able to capture the huge process it takes to get vehicles from their post exercise condition back to one where they are fully deployable. The exercise involved the majority of 62 Squadron deploying to continental Europe and Scandinavia with a considerable proportion of its fleet in support of a multinational NATO Force.

Ex WESSEX STORM 5/18 (64 Squadron) 64 Squadron deployed on Ex WESSEX STORM 5/18 in support of the Light Dragoons Battle Group exercise throughout Nov and Dec. The exercise allowed

8 64 Squadron Deployed on EXERCISE WESSEX STORM

individual troops to hone and adapt their SOPs to work in harmony with a cavalry unit. In advance of the main exercise phase, the Sqn also conducted its own bespoke CT1 Soldier First training which was a valuable opportunity for troops to prepare for their upcoming deployment to Kenya in 2019.

There were some opportunities for quieter moments including a hill top Remembrance Service and a visit to Salisbury to see the museum of the Berkshire and Wiltshire Infantry.

Promotions and Presentations In Dec, the Commanding Officer had the privilege of promoting a number of individuals from WO2 to WO1 and Captain to Major.

Captain Roberts QM(T) and recently posted Captains O'Leary and Catherwood, were promoted to Major. WO2 (SSM) Parker has been promoted to WO1 (RSM) and will shortly be moving to 1 Reg. WO2 Donnelly was also been promoted to WO1.

In addition to promotions, a number of individuals were presented with their Long Service and Good Conduct medals by 102 Log Bde Commander Brigadier Blair-Tidewell. WO2 MacPhereson and SSgt Catling were presented with their LS&GC. WO2 AsafoAdejei was presented with his LS&GC and his Royal Warrant.

8 WO2 Parker and WO2 Donnelly receiving their promotions to WO1 from Lt Col Green

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7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COTTESMORE CO: Lt Col J Edwards • Adjt: Capt E Duplessis • RSM: WO1 A Newham During the months leading up to Christmas, 7 Regiment RLC successfully deployed on numerous Corps and Army taskings.

Farewell and Hello The end of 2018 saw the Regt bid farewell to Lt Col Steve Cornell.

Bidding farewell to the CO, the Regt lined a route out of camp and he was treated to a ride in a working Scammell Commander to the camp gate. We wish him and his family the best of luck for the future. The Regt welcomed the new CO, Lt Col Jim Edwards and his family.

ASR18 617 Sqn was tasked with delivering Real-Life Support (RLS) for ASR18, the CGS’s 100th anniversary battlefield study to France. The RLS included a wide range of tasks such as the movement, feeding, accommodation and personal administration of attendees. Over the period of 10-28 Oct 2018, all personnel were deployed to France and stayed in Camp de Sissione, 26km west of Leon. The exercise also gave opportunities for elements of the BCS to be met.

The main benefit realised from ASR18 was the opportunity given to personnel to develop a wide range of skills, mostly outside of their primary trade. ASR18 saw suppliers taking on driving details and gaining confidence as the exercise progressed. They were also exposed to MT checks and procedures related to the vehicles, which will benefit them going forward. While this was advantageous, it also highlighted that more of this basic level training needs to be conducted day to day.

The RLS was a real success and this was constantly being fed back to the personnel involved. The audience was a mixture of high ranking officers, as well as international representatives.

Therefore, it was essential to get it right and thanks to the great effort of the soldiers and officers involved it went very smoothly.

EX TIMBER TRUSS 9 Sqn was tasked with supporting Ex TIMBER TRUSS in Nov for the new cohort of Troop Commanders (TC). While this exercise is designed to test the TCs in planning and execution of logistic support, it also provided and excellent training opportunity for the drivers and suppliers of 9 Sqn. The exercise saw 4 Transport Tps and a Supply Tp deploy to Caerwent, Wales to conduct simulated logistic taskings across Sennybridge. The rugged terrain and narrow country roads proved challenging for the drivers while the deployment of an FSA proved testing for the suppliers. The training value was realised by the new TCs and soldiers of 7 Regt alike.

Orzel Dinner Night The Orzel Dinner night was a fantastic occasion to catch up with both former and serving officers of 7 Regt. Recognising its long history was the focus of the night. It was a special occasion which included several former COs; with the

8 The RLS included a wide range of tasks such as the movement, feeding, accommodation and personal administration of attendees

majority accompanied by their RSMs of the day. Guests even included a former TC who started their career in 1967 with the unit.

The Regt was also honoured to host Lt Col Rado Sulek, a Polish Officer Army from 1 Logistic Bde who travelled specifically for the occasion. The history of the MSO was provided by Lt Col (Retd) Robbie Campbell, which preceded the official naming of the regimental Antar after Wladislaw Paterek (the Godfather of the MSO) who devoted almost 40 years of his life to the British Army. The evening was interspersed with extracts of the unit history which included the extraction of troops from Dunkirk in 1940, maintaining supply lines in the Middle East with horses in 1942 and troops landing in Normandy on D-Day plus three. Special thanks must go to Wayne Meadows for renovating the Antar, the RLC Treasurer for devoting funds to assist in the renovation, 19 Tank Transporter Sqn for providing all the tractors and the REME Museum for the loan of the Scammell Pioneer.

Bialo Czerwoni!

8 CO Departs

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9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULLAVINGTON CO: Lt Col A J C Geary • Adjt: Capt C Hardwick • RSM: WO1 R Vincent A new year, but the same pace of life for 9 Regiment. The Regt is already gearing up for the plethora of commitments it has coming up this year, including Ex WYVERN TOR (support to the Ten Tors event) and the FTC European Terrain Walk in May. The recovery from Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 concluded in Jan slightly later than originally planned. A number of personnel were lucky enough to get leave over Christmas, others, including the CO, spent Christmas Day in Duqm, making the most of the situation by enjoying a middle eastern take on the traditional Christmas Dinner.

The transition has now been made to Ex KANJAR EDGE, with 2Lt Long heading up the 84 MSS team responsible for supporting the newly established Field Hospital.

Also, returning to camp after a successful deployment were members of 66 Sqn from Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE; although it was a quick turnaround for the OC, Maj Jon Coningham, before starting PDT for his upcoming tour on Op SHADER in Feb 2019.

Royal visit The Regt was incredibly privileged to welcome Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal to Buckley Barracks on 22 Jan 2019. She was briefed on the Regt’s main commitments over the last 12 months and had the opportunity to meet recently deployed soldiers and their families.

HRH also met a number of the Regt’s sports stars and the silver medal winning Cambrian Patrol Team. The opportunity arose to present Op SHADER medals to Maj Player, Maj Gardner MBE and Capt Butterworth – a fantastic way to recognise their efforts.

Training and sports Elsewhere, life in Buckley Barracks has continued at a pace with a multitude of visits, courses, exercises, sports and AT. 84 MSS was recently visited by 50

representatives from the US National Guard, keen to better understand this niche capability.

Cpl Brooks has been providing Basic Life Support and First Aid training to Cadets from Cheltenham College Combined Cadet Force and both 84 MSS and 95 Sqn have visited the Gurkha Museum in Winchester to expand their knowledge under the Gurkha Growth Programme.

In 95 Sqn, Materiel Troop paid Leidos in Bristol a visit to develop their knowledge of storage and management of Priming Equipment Packs (PEPs) in anticipation of a Forward TEG PEP arriving.

90 Sqn has quietly been increasing the capability it can provide to the LSS trade and the wider corps through the Supply

8 HRH The Princess Royal met a number of the Regt’s sports stars and the silver medal winning Cambrian Patrol Team during her visit

Training Facility (STF). An uplift in LOG IS terminals has been installed which has increased teaching volume to five classrooms; which coupled with new UINs and VITAL nodes, is enabling exercising units to conduct more realistic training.

With regards to sport, special congratulations must go to the Nordic team, who despite being made up of complete novices, won the best shots outside of the top three teams. Additionally, Cpl O’Hara and LCpl Papp competed at the Army Bobsleigh Championships, finishing second.

Cpl O’Hara has subsequently been asked to represent the Army in only her second season - a phenomenal achievement.

Finally, huge congratulations go to Capt Lasisi for his success on the beige list and WO2s Bodill, Rokovucago and Pullen for their selection to WO1. Also, a warm welcome to the new Tp Comds, 2Lts Brandy, Nazir and Shah.

8 HRH also presented Op SHADER medals to Maj Player, Maj Gardner MBE and Capt Butterworth

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10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col A West • Adjt: Capt S Patterson • RSM: WO1 P Gurung The end of the year is routinely a busy period for 10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (QOGLR) with the religious festivals of Dashain and Tihar, also with the regimental deployment on Ex IRON PYTHON, falling in quick succession.

Since the last edition, Lt Simon Smith led an arduous level three hill walking expedition to Iceland, the Regt secured gold medal glory in the world’s toughest patrolling competition. Gold and silver medals were won at The RLC swimming championships and the regimental squash players secured second place at the major units Army squash competition.

Deployments The new year began with the deployment of 19 Logistic Supply Specialists to BATUS, Canada on Ex PRAIRIE PHOENIX. Personnel from 1 Squadron QOGLR, 27 RLC and 9 RLC (a truly composite group) have been working on the preparation and rehabilitation of vehicles after the winter training period.

Jan has also seen 1 Sqn begin preparations for Public Duties in earnest, with seven soldiers recently passing the Standard Drill Instructors Course at Catterick.

Meanwhile, back at Gale Barracks, all 90 marching troops were measured for No 1 dress uniform by the Garrison tailors and an insightful recce to LONDIST was conducted by the Command Group.

Continuing the success of Ex KHUKURI EAGLE in 2018, 28 Squadron conducted left-hand-side driver training and subsequently deployed to Germany for three weeks on Ex KHUKRI CHIL. Here the Sqn will brave snow and cold to deliver training including; LFTT and vehicle and platoon live ranges.

Closer to home, both squadrons were further able to demonstrate and describe their trade knowledge during Ex LOG SAFARI, where sections delivered distribution point and transport stands to the newly commissioned RLC Troop Commanders’ Course in Deepcut.

Other activities Wider regimental activity has included preparation for readiness, with visits to the Joint Casualty 8 LSS BATUS deployment - The new year began with the deployment of 19 Logistic Supply Specialists to BATUS, Canada on Ex PRAIRIE PHOENIX

8 Ex TIGER KHUKURI TEIDE - 10QOGLR exercises during the last quarter include Ex TIGER KHUKURI TEIDE

‘‘

Jan has also seen 1 Sqn begin preparations for Public Duties in earnest, with seven soldiers recently passing the Standard Drill Instructors Course at Catterick

Compassionate Centre in Gloucester and Aldershot’s Personnel Recover Unit to broaden understanding of the role they play in service personnel welfare.

The soldiers and officers of 10 QOGLR gather as one to extend its congratulations to Maj Devendra Ale MVO MBE for his selection for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel, the first in the history of the Regt.

Following in his footsteps, we wish to congratulate WO1(RSM) Prakash Gurung, WO2 Uttam Limbu, WO2 Surendra Purja, WO2 Pawan Sherchan and SSgt Wesley Greaves, who have all be selected for LE Commission. Shyabash, Jai QOGLR!

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11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment RLC DIDCOT CO: Lt Col N G Joynes QGM • Adjt: Capt L Selman • RSM: WO1 P Gonzalez 11 EOD&S Regiment continues to deliver EOD capability and ammunition technical support worldwide. This quarter has also included major search tasks, Remembrance, trade training, and a little festive fun.

Travel, remembrance and Christmas at 721 EOD Sqn 721 EOD Sqn has covered some serious ground this quarter, with deployments of varying sizes to deliver EOD Ops in Northern Ireland and Iraq; exercise support in Oman and Eastern Europe; ammunition technical support to the Falklands and Cyprus; defence engagement in Sierra Leone and Thailand, as well as some well-earned adventure training.

Back in the UK, 721 Sqn attended the Remembrance Parade in Tewkesbury in November. After the march past and act of remembrance, the Sqn was invited into the Royal British Legion for some much appreciated refreshment and a chat with the local veterans. Those in attendance swapped old tales and new and took the time to remember all those who went before us. Notably, Bielefeld Tp took part in the last ever Remembrance Parade in Catterick Bks and a small delegation laid a wreath at the EOD memorial at the National Arboretum. The Sqn also hosted the family of SSgt Brett Linley GM, who’s memorial stands in the grounds of the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess.

As Christmas approached, 721 Sqn came together for the soldiers’ Christmas lunch, which saw an array of Christmas jumpers, ranging from the sublime to the offensive. In the spirit of goodwill to all mankind, members of the Sqn collected money for orphanages across Moldova, supporting the idea that every child should have a gift at Christmas.

Those involved dug deep and hopefully brought a few smiles over the festive period.

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MACA search with the Yorkshire Police Charlie Tp, 421 EOD&S Sqn, completed Op BAKESEA; a hazardous environment search in support of West Yorkshire Police.

The Tp was responding to a request to assist in a search for potential fire arms at a known hide location. Two full search teams deployed on this operation and over the course of 60 hours, searched through an old pool hall.

Adding jeopardy to the proceedings, the hall was found to be heavily contaminated with Asbestos. This was a great opportunity for the Tp to show the versatility of their capability and after a lot of hard work in breathing apparatus, the search teams were able to provide a high level of assurance to West Yorkshire Police.

Remote controlled vehicle and decontamination training Shorncliffe Tp, 621 Sqn, started the New Year with an exercise focusing on the training of No 2 EOD Operators. This was an ideal opportunity for the less experienced No 2s to be let loose with the various Remote-Control Vehicles (RCVs) and equipment held by the Tp. Day one began with lessons on how to maintain and manage the various RCVs and equipment that are vital for their main role providing EOD support to the south-east of England. Afterwards they practiced vehicle clearances, ranging from small hatchbacks to seven-seaters.

8 621 Sqn CBRNe Training This was their first attempt at remotely clearing a vehicle from start to finish. This is not a quick job and tested their ability to remain focussed and alert for very long periods. The next two days consisted of pushing the RCVs to their limit, through the fields and mud of the training area, as well as tackling houses, stairs and basements. The culmination of the exercise was a CBRN focused task, which required strict decontamination drills and the ability to undress the No 1 Operator without contaminating themselves. The exercise was a first for the Sqn and everyone involved returned with an increased understanding of the capabilities of their equipment and greater confidence in their own abilities.

8 Logistic Demolitions during Ex SAIF SAREEA

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13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER CO: Lt Col M Genko • Adjt: Capt O Stilgoe • RSM: WO1 R Falls Over a period usually characterised by winding down towards the festive season, 13 Air Assault Support Regiment found itself completing a rather productive quarter. While much of the Regt maintained readiness in line with the Air Manoeuvre Battlegroup (AMBG), the vast majority of our personnel have been committed to various overseas training exercises, such as Ex FALCONS AMARANTE and Ex ASKARI STORM. Personnel have also been detached to places such as the Falklands, Germany, Holland and the USA. The invaluable experience that these soldiers will have gained will no doubt greatly enhance the Regt’s operational capability in the future.

Ex ASKARI STORM In Oct 2018, 63 Sqn deployed in support of 2 PARA on Ex ASKARI STORM 18-5. This was the battlegroup’s final validation prior to assuming Very High Readiness as the AMBG. The exercise provided a great opportunity to test soldiers on both their fieldcraft and trade expertise in an arduous operating environment. These challenging conditions provided excellent training as lines of communication were often stretched over large distances through scorching savannah and mountainous terrain, therefore pushing the over-worked BATUK fleet to its limits.

However, it wasn’t all work and no play. The vast majority of the Sqn managed to engage in some form of adventure training, ranging from the 2-Star kayak course and white-water rafting to mountain biking and hill walking in the beautiful savannah. Further to this, the men and women of the Battle Group were ever keen to support community engagement activities.

This resulted in a 63 Sqn led multiactivity day, at one of the local orphanages, where donations of new football kits, football goalposts and a repaint and rebuild of parts

of the orphanage were gratefully received.

8 82 Sqn and 515e (Fr) Regt parade on

Ex FALCONS AMARANTE In Nov 2018, 82 Sqn deployed on Ex FALCONS AMARANTE 18.

The exercise saw troops deploy to the south of France as part of a French lead CSS Group. 82 Sqn were fully integrated into their French equivalent, 515e (Fr) Regiment du Train and were tasked to support both the 3 PARA Battle Group and the French 11e (Fr) Brigade Parachutiste.

Interoperability was key throughout and included British resupply of French forces and vice versa. While not all our methods of working were compatible, the exercise gave the Sqn a greater understanding of how our allies work and how we might operate with them in as part of the A-CJEF. To round off the exercise, both 82

Sqn and 515e (Fr) Regiment took part in a moving remembrance parade on Armistice day.

8 LCpl Eady conducts community engagement at the local orphanage

Armistice Day

Regiment daily business While not on operations or exercise, the Regt has been busy conducting a host of other activities and events, including a vast array of soldier development days, culminating in selecting and preparing the Cambrian Patrol team. It went on to achieved the Silver Award; a fantastic effort. The Regt also enjoyed a successful boxing night, where 82 Sqn were crowned winners of this year’s event. All involved truly embodied the regimental ethos and put on a fine display of physical and moral courage. Concurrently, 65 Tp deployed on Ex BERCHTESGADEN, a battlefield study to enhance its understanding of our values, standards and knowledge of WWII. The exercise took in Dachau, near Munich and the infamous Eagles Nest near Berchtesgaden.

The most poignant moment of which was standing in Dachau Concentration Camp.

The outlook for the Regt over the coming months is looking positive, with plenty to look forward to including opportunities for adventurous training ranging from; scuba diving in Malta, to Alpine and Nordic skiing and a battlefield study to Normandy, before jumping into various exercises throughout 2019.

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17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTHAMPTON CO: Lt Col P Eaton MBE • Adjt: Capt M McGarvey-Miles • RSM: WO1 G Richards 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC has continued to support operations and exercises globally over the last few months.

Despite the high operational tempo, the Regt has continued to develop its tradesmen and women both professionally and physically through CT1 and CT2 training, a reinvigorated physical training program and adventurous training.

Exercise and Operations update The final quarter of 2018 proved professionally rewarding and challenging for all trades in the Regt with a short notice Port Task Group (PTG) to Darussalam in Brunei. Realising that the theatre facilities were not up to par and the local workforce unfamiliar with dockside crane operations, Brunei Garrison requested assistance from the Field Army with the discharge of MV ANVIL POINT. In Oct, the Regt assisted with the redeployment of equipment from Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE, providing various PTGs and detachments for several tasks. While the initial deployment was a simple series of discharges in Fredrikstad, the redeployment tested the sea-going skills of our Port Operators. With the RoRo loaded in Fredrikstad, the PTG remained on board to conduct the unload in Teesport, racking up 20 days at sea between ports.

PTGs were not the only contribution to Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE. 52 Sqn generated two Operational Hygiene detachments to support the exercise with other personnel trawled from across the Regt for railhead operations and convoy support centres.

Throughout Nov the Regt generated a series of PTGs to support the build-up of equipment for Ex KHANJAR EDGE 19 (Ex KE19) and the drawdown of Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 - both in Oman.

Meeting this requirement has proved challenging due to the extended deployment period placing considerable pressure on PTG manning across the board.

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While most of the Regt enjoyed a well-earned break over Christmas, the Sea Mounting Centre (SMC) remained active. On the 28 Dec 18, the MV EDDYSTONE was loaded with equipment, including helicopters, by Port Operators and Movement Controllers in preparation to support Ex KE19.

Looking forward, the Regiment is heading into the first quarter of 2019 at pace. The programme is quickly filling up with PTGs and preparations for the Joint Expeditionary Force (Maritime) training progression and Ex IRON VIPER 19 continuing in earnest.

Sports and AT The Regt has continued to engage in sporting activities from cross country to rugby. Following the success of the rugby team at the Williamson Cup there has been a series of hard fought games throughout the league against high calibre opposition such as the Defence Academy at Shrivenham and the Pilgrims at Hereford

8 The Regimental Cross-Country team following their successful retention of The RLC Major Unit Championship Garrison. With one more game to go, the Regt hopes to make it to the league finals.

The Regt has also deployed soldiers to Europe to take part in the Nordic Skiing season. The team consists of a cross section of soldiers of the Regt from skiing veterans such as LCpl Foley to complete novices such as Pte Sprake. Lt Wilkins has taken the team through a vigorous training program, which set them up for early success at the Divisional Championships. In the initial race, the 15km Classic, the team won Team gold for the Regt, LCpl Foley claimed Senior gold, Pte Sprake won Senior and Junior Novice Gold, and the Regt also won Senior Novice Bronze.

In other sporting news the RAO Maj Baker, and Lt Stradling were selected to represent the Army in the inter services orienteering where the Army won overall. The Regt also has experienced success in cross country where the unit retained The RLC Major Unit (males) title, qualifying the Regt to compete in the Army Championships.

8 Pte Sprake takes his first tentative steps on snow

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25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DEEPCUT CO: Lt Col M A Scannell • Adjt: Capt F Harris • RSM: WO1 D Burditt 25 Regiment RLC continues to prepare to move RHQ and 109 Sqn to Normandy Barracks, Leconfield and to support the re-subordination of 85 Sqn while delivering CLM training and managing the delivery of Initial trade training to phase two soldiers.

109 Sqn Organised by Lt Andy Rolfe, 28 members of 109 Sqn deployed on Ex YPRES EXPLORER, a battlefield study designed to help both the phase two soldiers and permanent staff increase their understanding and appreciation of the hardships and sacrifice that were made over the five battles of Ypres fought during WW1. Led by expert historian Andy Robertshaw, the exercise was particularly poignant as it was undertaken during the weeks leading up to the 100-year commemoration of the signing of the Armistice. This was followed by a different experience when on 1 Nov 18, all members of 109 Sqn’s permanent staff undertook the famed 16-mile Fan Dance over Pen Y Fan and the surrounding mountains. It was a challenging event for all, aimed at further increasing team cohesion and performance through the shared challenge. Capt Adam Rough led the team over the Pen Y Fan as a group, albeit at a taxing pace. This was followed by a best effort on the eight-mile route back. This tested everyone’s mental ability to complete the event and to also vie for bragging rights.

8 109 Sqn Permanent Staff on completion of ‘Pen Y Fan’

85 Sqn 85 Sqn has continued to deliver the RLCs JNCO, SNCO and WO CLM courses over the last three months qualifying over 200 NCOs and 40 WOs for their CLM part one. The Sqn also conducted two Instructor Development Cadres ((IDC) formally known as JPIC delivered by Sgt Dean Foster and Sgt Craig Briley.

The IDC educates selected JNCOs for future roles in either a Phase (Ph) 1 or Ph2 training establishment and 85 Sqn. All RLC JNCOs selected from the promotion board for instructional posts must attend this course prior to assignment to a training establishment. The Sqn also delivered a SNCO IDC course for the pre RMAS selection cadre.

13 SNCOs took part from around the Corps supported by five ex RMAS instructors who helped in assessing and developing the candidates throughout the cadre.

The top student on the cadre was Cpl Gallagher from AFC (H); 11 candidates received a positive recommendation to be developed as future RMAS instructors. More detail about the courses will be in the next edition.

8 Members of 25 Regt showcasing their singing talents

Deepcut Support Unit (DSU) DSU has engaged in various activities with the local community, which has enabled various personnel from across the Regt to interact with the local residents. The Regt had the honour of hosting residents from Camberley Manor care home at our Remembrance Sunday parade in the Corps Church. We had the pleasure of hosting George who is a retired Major, who previously served at Deepcut Station.

During the Regt’s soldiers’ Christmas Day celebrations, WO2 (SSM) Jamie Rixon took various personnel from the Regt to Camberley Manor care home to wish the residents a Happy Christmas. WO2(SSM) Jamie Rixon and Capt David Thom (Padre) and various members of the Regt put on a carol service at the care home, which was enjoyed by the residents and the members of the Regt who got to show case their singing talent.

Congratulations go to Maj Fiona Dangerfield, Officer Commanding, who has received a Queens Commendation. The Sqn Second in Command Capt Malcolm Roberts was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. WO2 (SSM) Jamie Rixon and SSgt Denise Morgan were presented with Long Service and Good Conduct medals.

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27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col J C West • Adjt: Capt O Mcgarvey-Miles • RSM: WO1 W Eagle The pace of life at 27 Regiment RLC has continued at a high tempo, with numerous taskings and exercises over this quarter.

19 Tank Transporter Sqn continued to support Ex SAIF SAREEA 3, providing heavy lift capability to the UK BG. The HET Troop arrived in Oman in Aug 18 and was put straight to work at the Joint Logistic Support Base (JLSB) in Duqm. This entailed working closely with the LAD completing level one and two maintenance whilst moving all heavy armour from the port to the JLSB. The next task was to move the heavy armour from the JLSB to Shafa Camp, a total of 450 km.

Each leg took approximately nine hours with up to 18 vehicles per convoy spanning 1.5 km. After driving in the extreme heat, the soldiers then had to unload and refuel all vehicles before some well-earned rest. The main effort was the fire power demonstration with HET Tp moving AS90, Challenger II and Warrior. The troop also played a key role in the recovery phase returning all heavy armour to the port.

The troop commander, Lt Conor Jeram, commented: ‘It was a great learning opportunity allowing me to exercise my own command and control, planning and man management. Liaising with different cap badges and the Royal Omani Police developed a wider understanding of how the Army works with outside organisations as well as within itself.”

Ex IRON PYTHON In Nov 2018 the Regt deployed on its annual CT3 exercise, Ex IRON PYTHON. As part of the exercise the Sqns conducted BCS training; practicing how to operate in a harbour location as well as practicing mounted contact drills.

The Regt embedded soldiers from 154 Regt RLC and 156 Regt RLC, as well a small attachment from 1 MWD and 4 RMP, which truly enhanced the training and 56

gave an insight to the junior soldiers on integrating other units.

An observer team from twinned Regiment 516 Regimen du Train also deployed to study how the Regiment trains and operates.

Throughout the exercise 77 HQ Sqn was responsible for the smooth operating of the Divisional Support Area. 19 Sqn attached the MLET Tp to 8 Fuel & GT Sqn and established a CSC in Cottesmore to support other 101 Log Bde exercising units. They also had to manage real-time taskings from HQ Fd Army, concentrating on the removal of Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 A vehicles from Marchwood Military Port. 8 Sqn established two BFI locations in Cottesmore and RAF Wittering, simultaneously supporting the real-time flow of troops and materiel to Log Nodes

8 Cambrian Patrol

across the country. The task also involved distributing a vast amount of simmo (c1500 pallets). 91 Sqn operated the ammunition storage area as well as handling real time aviation stores for 7 REME and 3 AAC (AH-64) on Ex TALON PYTHON. Overall the exercise was a success with over 330 personnel and 150 vehicles deploying.

Another key achievement for the Regt this quarter was Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL. Following a short preparation time of about five weeks, in Oct eight members of 27 Regt embarked onto one of the Army’s most renown military competition.

About 140 teams across the British and overseas armies took part and were not helped by the terrible weather conditions resulting from storm ‘Callum’.

Battling fatigue, the team performed exceptionally well in every stand. Everyone gave it their all and their efforts culminated with the team winning the Silver medal; a feat totally unprecedented in the history of the Regt.

The Regt has also been busy on the sporting front, winning the male and female Army Inter-Unit Basketball, and The RLC Swimming Competition.

8 Ex IRON PYTHON Convoy

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29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTH CERNEY CO: Lt Col C G Munce MBE • Adjt: Capt R D Irvine • RSM: WO1 L E Russell

As 2018 drew to a close, the tempo in 29 Regiment showed no sign of relenting. With personnel supporting the major Defence exercises such as SS3 and Trident Juncture, delivering robust BCS and adventure training and participating in remembrance services across the local area, the Regt stayed true to its motto: “REBUS IN ADVERSIS PROFICISIMUR” EX SAIF SAREEA 3 Split across two locations, Duqm and Mussanah, the Movement Controllers deployed and recovered over 1000 pax. A detachment coordinated the creation of a Movement Control Check Point, working closely with both their Omani equivalents and local civilian contractors to deliver movements effects. The Postal and Courier operators have been responsible for the receipt and onward movement of mail as well as providing local currency for deployed troops. Pte Burgess of 80 Sqn was part of the team that was responsible for over 200 bags of mail and 10 tonnes of PMM. 29 Regt has been at the fore of proving enablement with the successful movement of extensive numbers of personnel and post across a new theatre.

EX TIGER CENTURION DEEP

By WO2 Adam Dunmore. In Oct 29 Regt conducted a level three Sub Aqua Adventurous Training

exercise to Malta, Ex TIGER CENTURION DEEP 18. Twenty officers and soldiers from across the Regt underwent a training course to either gain their first diving qualification or build on existing experience through the British Sub-Aqua Club. The exercise was led by WO2 (SSM) Dunmore of 50 Sqn and saw the majority completing the Ocean Diver qualification. Pte Bradford and Pte Binning attempted the Sports Diver qualification. Staying in a self-catering hotel brought a whole new challenge with the troops having to cook for themselves. Needless to say, most evenings were spent in one of the many local restaurants. Notably, on one occasion, five female soldiers notched up a whopping €270 bill experiencing five courses of Maltese fine dining. With Pte Hale acting as the enthusiastic resident photographer, a great deal of high quality photos were taken, much to the annoyance of the instructors. His timing was less than perfect – underwater is not

8 80 Sqn, 29RLC, on their BCS exercise

suitable for an un-waterproofed camera! During the exercise, there was cause for celebration as WO2 Paul Reeves marked his 42nd birthday and Ptes Bradford, BlairMilligan, Finch, Harrison and Ward were successful on the LCpl board.

The expedition was a complete success. All those attended had a fantastic time and gained a qualification in a new sport.

Winter Sport The regimental Alpine and Nordic ski teams have been training hard, attending the skills camps in Norway and Austria respectively.

Some encouraging results in the practice trials have shown some talent emerge in the form of LCpl Dawes and Pte Hale, so hopes are high for Divisional success.

Remembrance To mark the 100th anniversary of the Armistice and to remember all those who have served since, 29 Regt took to the local area.

80 Sqn, was able to raise an average of £1000 a day in poppy collections. Conducting six different ceremonies, the Regt led local communities in their remembrance, with the main effort in Cirencester where 55 Sqn wowed the crowds with its march past.

8 WO2(SSM) Furlong training for the veterans race

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The Defence EOD, Munitions and Search Training Regt BICESTER CO: Lt Col R G Hallett OBE • Adjt: Capt S V C Fox • RSM: WO1 D Piner Late 2018 was a busy time at DEMS Training Regiment. In Muns Sqn, it was decided that the three troops would be reorganised and each troop would teach a course in its entirety. Previously each troop would teach a phase – Storage, CMD, Surveillance and Systems for example. This often led to administration problems, especially timetabling for resit assessments from a previous phase.

Planning manpower for instructor heavy phases, meant perpetually borrowing and lending staff at the last minute. This added to the pressures of working within the training environment and was not particularly effective in its methods.

The ATO Troop had the task of incorporating the 0064 DEOC into the ATO Course for the first time on the 1801 Course.

The new troop structure would enable the trainees to see the same instructors daily which, on the long technical courses, means that individual learning styles and senses of humour (or lack of!) could be noted and acted upon by the training team. This increases the effectiveness of the training overall and the trainee experience improved as a result. The downside for the instructors was that the ATO course takes up an entire training year and there would be little time away. The ATO Course is the longest professional technical course in The RLC. Students are taught for the best part of a year but they have also completed six months of degree level training at the Defence Academy, Shrivenham, before they arrive at Kineton. As you can appreciate, there are many peaks and troughs in morale for the trainees during this intensive course and the addition of a restructured CMD/UXO Phase meant that the stress factor would be ever present in the background.

It was decided that the 1801 ATO Course would be a ‘trial’ course incorporating the 0064 DEOC 58

lessons and assessments, therefore enabling the award of the 0064 Qualification in addition to the ATO qualification. This means that the successful candidates will be qualified and operationally effective as soon as they graduate in Apr 2019. The product is more employable due to the intelligent amalgamation of training objectives that were almost identical but just on two separate courses. This makes the training more effective and efficient as a result. Executing the plan proved to be a little bit more taxing!

Time had to be found within the existing course and the deconfliction of ATO/0064 qualifications led to

8 A training area has been developed to run as much of the course as possible at Kineton

something of a hybrid timetable for the conventional munitions disposal phase of the course. The CMD phase was much shorter than the 0064 course and so there was a lot of analysis and compromise between the two TRA’s governing the courses. Behind the scenes, since Jan 2018, Sgt Grattan and Sgt Watkin have been working tirelessly to develop a training area and kit out four bays worth of 0064 kit with which to run as much of the course as possible at Kineton.

It became apparent quite early on that most of the training could be done at Kineton. This was also a perfect time to fully utilise the regimental agility concept as instructors and resource from two Sqns was required to deliver the first iteration successfully.

At the time of writing, the ATO course is conducting its final assessment phase and looking well prepared. This is testament to a lot of hard work and dedication from both Muns and CMD Sqns. While there is still much work to be completed to enable the next course to run even more smoothly, the Regt is proud to have achieved the aim.

8 The ATO Course is the longest professional technical course in The RLC

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150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL CO: Lt Col M Casey • Adjt: Capt J E Milton • RSM: WO1 P Doherty

The latter part of 2018 proved to be a very busy time for 150 Regiment RLC. Following a successful deployment of 28 of the Regt’s personnel on Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE, the Regt was soon competing for the Marshall Trophy during our annual military skills competition.

Organised by Maj Dee Herraghty and her team in 216 Sqn, this year’s event was held over the weekend of the 13 - 14 Oct 2018, at Warcop. The competition was hotly contested over several stands based around the BCS syllabus.

However, by the Sunday it was clear that the competition for the trophy was between 216 and 217 Sqns. The Sqns battled the severe weather during the final event, the March and Shoot and 217 Sqn was able to maintain its lead, making it the overall winner. The Regt was honoured to host 102 Brigade Commander, Brig J T Blair-Tidewell during the event.

Led by WO2 Alan Poole of 523 Sqn, the Regt continued its focus on basic skills, holding an STA weekend on 23 – 24 Nov 2018. Regimental personnel were trained and tested on a number of their basic trade skills. SSgt Carl Blackburn organised and led the driver stands including; camouflage and concealment, a Highway Code test, FMT forms and Land Rover and trailer reversing.

WO2 Morrish delivered training for the chefs, where they produced some delicious food that the remainder of the Regt were extremely grateful for. WO2 Calum McCaldin ensured that the Communication Specialists were kept extremely busy all weekend with valuable signals training and Maj Simon Thomassen-Kinsey and WO2 Peter Rogers offered insightful G1 training on JPA and claims for the entire Regt. The weekend provided a fitting culmination to a busy year and was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.

WO2 Glen Scarah led a small team, comprising Cpl Ash Harris

and LCpl Elvis Elvidge at The RLC Squash Championships. As the only reservist team to enter the competition, they did extremely well making it all the way to the quarter finals before narrowly missing out to 29 Regt RLC. WO2 Glen Scarah continued to further success, representing the RLC at the Inter Corps Championships where he was placed 3rd in the RLC Division 1 team. He was also presented with his Corps Colours during a dinner to celebrate the Corps’ 25th Anniversary.

The Regt has also enjoyed sporting success at the Army Clay Pigeon Shooting Championships held at Barbury Shooting Ground, Swindon on 30 Sep 2018. The team, led by WO1 RSM Peter Doherty, walked away with impressive results for the Regt; 1st RLC Team and 1st Reserve Team.

Lt Oliver Bird achieved 2nd place

8 Soldiers of 150 Regt testing their basic soldiering skills during the Regimental Military Skills Competition

‘‘

Led by WO2 Alan Poole of 523 Sqn, the Regt continued its focus on basic skills, holding an STA weekend on 23-24 Nov 18. Regimental personnel were trained and tested on a number of their basic trade skills

High Gun (in his category) and Lt Bird and Sgt Gary Openshaw’s scores were counted towards a 4th place overall for The RLC team. The Regt looks forward to continuing its sporting success and building upon the good quality training it has conducted this year into 2019.

‘‘

WO2 Glen Scarah led a small team, comprising Cpl Ash Harris and LCpl Elvis Elvidge at the RLC Squash Championships. As the only reservist team to enter the competition, they did extremely well making it all the way to the quarter finals before narrowly missing out to 29 Regt RLC

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151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CROYDON CO: Lt Col D T Miller • Adjt: Capt B Heinrich • RSM: WO1 V Chappell 151 Regiment RLC has continued to strengthen its bonds with communities across Greater London. The last four months have included the centenary of the First World War, support to the Lord Mayor's Show in London, sporting achievements in skiing, as well as operational deployments.

Remembrance Sunday The centenary of the First World War was commemorated by the Sqns in their local communities. Members of 210 Sqn, Cpl David Simmonds and 2Lt Sarah George attended Battle’s Over - a Nation’s Tribute Beacon Lighting ceremony - at Merton Town Hall. It was one of a thousand beacons lit around the country simultaneously, symbolising an end to the darkness of war and a return to the light of peace. At the same time, members of 562 Sqn attended a Remembrance Day centenary event in France, attended by the Mayor of Marcq en Bareouel and the London Borough of Ealing’s councillors.

The Lord Mayors Show: A Special Appearance Every year, 151 Regt provides a contingent to assist with the official marshalling and stacking of vehicles in the Lord Mayor's Show, as well as providing a float for the Show itself.

To mark The RLC’s 25th anniversary, 151 Regt had some special additions to its float notably, Field Marshall Montgomery’s Rolls Royce Wraith, a vintage Bedford Tanker and an MLET. Thanks must go to 27 Regt, RHQ The RLC, and the RLC Museum for assisting with making the day a success.

‘‘

It was an honour riding in Montgomery’s Rolls Royce, it was the first civilian car to land at Normandy and some very prominent Generals and political figures have been in that car

LCpl Forster 60

In Oct, the officers and sergeants hosted the Worshipful Company of Marketors at their annual curry night at the Honourable Artillery Company. It was here that the 2018 Marketor’s prize was awarded to WO2 Dean Gillson of 562 Sqn for his commitment to the Regt.

Ex KNEE STRETCH In early Dec 2018, 2Lt Jonny Bullock took a group of both experienced and novice skiers on Ex KNEE STRETCH in Austria. Testing their stamina and skills in Nordic Skiing, 151 Regt walked away with an award for best reserve team. Other prizes went to 2Lt Bullock (1st Senior

8 Members of 210 Sqn, Cpl David Simmonds and 2Lt Sarah George attended Battle’s Over - a Nation’s Tribute Beacon Lighting ceremony - at Merton Town Hall

Reserve), SSgt Gibson (2nd Veteran Reserve Novice), Cpl Matthews (2nd Veteran Reserve) and Cpl Warren (3rd Senior Reserve Novice). The team is now looking forward to more success at Ex SKI RLC. Lead First 151 Regt continues its tradition of young officers taking up the unique FTRS opportunity that the Lead First Scheme offers, with Lt Bryony Stevens starting her Lead First in January. She will be deploying to Germany as a troop commander with 10 QOGLR as part of the regimental pairing.

151’s other Lead First officer, 2Lt George, is currently on UK based operations undertaking military aid to the civil authorities. 2Lt George was also selected to support the UK Presidency of the International Association of Reserve Officers (CIOR). In her role as liaison officer, she visited Tallinn, Estonia and celebrated 100 years of the Estonian Defence Force with both the departing and inbound commanders of the Estonian Defence Forces.

8 2Lt Bullock Ex KNEESTRETCH

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152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST CO: Lt Col A Chambers • Adjt: Capt R Mitchell • RSM: WO1 Llewellyn-Jones potatoes) where a simple small cross marks the site of a unique historical event. The Commanding Officer with team coach Sgt P McFarland laid a wreath and a 152 football shirt at the FIFA memorial a few yards from the field.

The Padre again did a wonderful job making everyone realise how lucky and privileged we are in our present time of peace. Col Smyth and Major Simpson gave us food for thought on the numbers that were lost in the four years of war.

All who took part were greatly moved and will remember this trip and those serving soldiers of WWI, the sacrifice they gave for our freedom.

The highlight of the final quarter of 2018 was the successful deployment and execution of Ex LEOPARD STAR (Ex LS), the Regiment’s eagerly anticipated OTX in Sennelager, Germany.

Over 130 soldiers and officers deployed and were tested in their BCS skills as well as their driving.

Bolted onto the back of Ex LS was Ex ULSTER REMEMBERED, a battlefield study following the 36th Ulster Division during World War One. The poignant finale of this saw the whole Regiment on parade at the Menin Gate with the sound of WO2 Green’s pipes reverberating around the impressive monument.

2019 is set to be another busy year for 152 (North Irish) Regiment. The recent NRDC review has identified several training challenges that the Ops team are currently tackling. The Regt has been been fortunate to be awarded an OTX for 2019 with Ex VIKING STAR in Denmark in September. Additionally, the formal partnership with 9 Regt RLC is sure to provide excellent opportunity for shared activity and training.

Ex ULSTER REMEMBERED From the beginning of the battlefield study, it was clear that the enormity of the loss of life at these important military historical memorial sites that our personnel witnessed and connected to, brought home the

8 Over 130 soldiers and officers had their BCS skills as well as their driving tested on Ex LS reality of war. The equivalent of whole towns and villages being killed in a few days was only part of the horrors we learned about. The conditions, which these brave soldiers fought, lived and died in was a far cry from the relative comfort of modern warfare.

Colonel Derek Smith MBE (retd), our invited guest speaker, provided the detail and factual accuracy of the conflict while Major J Simpson (OC 227 (HQ) Sqn), coupled with the investigative skills of Maj P Wray, had prepared eulogies on Regimental members’ families and namesakes.

As a Northern Irish unit the visit to Thiepval Memorial and the Ulster Tower were most fitting. Thiepval Wood and the immediate area were clear examples of the bloody stalemate endured for four years where every inch and yard gained cost thousands of lives.

In the Connaught Cemetery the Padre held a short service surrounded by crosses of the fallen.

The visit then took in the Thiepval Memorial.

Being a strong footballing unit it was apt there was a stop at the 1914 Christmas Truce football match field (now cultivated with

Ex SHARPSHOOTER – Canada International Shooting Competition From 10-22 Sep 2018, approximately 300 sharpshooters from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), Australia, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States participated in the Canadian Armed Forces Small Arms Concentration (CAFSAC). The concentration took place using the professional-grade facilities at Connaught Ranges and Primary Training Centre in Ottawa, Ontario.

The British Army Reserve shooting competition team (BARCST) was made up from individuals from 37 Signal Regiment, 152 (North Irish) Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, 256 Field Hospital and 208 Field Hospital Shooting teams. All these teams have represented their units at domestic shooting competitions and for the first time they all completed our first International Service Rifle competition.

152 (NI) Regt was represented by LCpl Colin Graham and Pte Lee Parker. Both competed in the regimental team at FTC in May 2018 becoming Corps champions.

This success led to selection into the British Reserve team for Canada this year. LCpl Graham finished as top British shot, with Pte Parker finishing fourth.

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154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DUNFERMLINE CO: Lt Col A Wilkinson • Adjt: Capt T J Oliver • RSM: WO1 (RSM) K Poole 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC entered two teams into The RLC’s Military Skills competition, which was expertly executed by 10 QOGLR in Aldershot. The teams began with a military knowledge based question stand before moving onto the assault course followed by a Log Race and a 25m shoot; before concluding with a series of command tasks. Both teams performed exceptionally, especially the female team who retained the title of Best Female Reserve team RLC. Regimental operational shooting competition In Oct the Regt gathered at Barry Buddon, to hold its annual operational shooting competition.

Predictably, the Scottish weather was unkind, but despite continuous windswept rain, the soldiers undertook the Annual Combat Marksmanship Test following by some close quarter marksmanship and familiarisation training on foreign weapons, delivered by LCpl Woods.

The following day the soldiers took part in a series of dynamic competition shoots, which tested communication and teamwork skills as well as individual marksmanship.

221 Sqn were the overall winners of the team prize and LCpl Sean Wall from 230 Sqn was the Regt’s top shot for 2018.

Ex TARTAN CRESCENDO 29 officers and soldiers, including eight from 27 Regiment RLC, travelled to France for Ex TARTAN CRESCENDO, a regimental battlefield study to examine the Hundred Days offensive of 1918. The group visited various battle sites and memorials such as the Australian National Monument, Beaumont Hamel, Mont St Quentin, Bourlon Wood and Riqueval. Syndicates briefed on various aspects of the offensive including: the balance between the doctrines of both sides and the personalities leading them; how information management developed during the war and the 62

importance of logistic support to both sides. The study followed the Allies progress between late Sep and Nov 1918, as they pushed the Germans back to the Hindenburg Line. Syndicates presented on the ethics of warfare, the effects of media and morale, and the paradigm shifts in tactics and technology that led to the development of combined arms warfare, that we recognise today. The study ended with a Remembrance Service held at the Bellicourt CWGC cemetery.

Ex MUDMASTER Ex MUDMASTER is the Regt’s annual safe and skilled driving competition. This year’s event was based at 221 (Glasgow) Transport Sqn and saw 74 crews taking part.

61 competed in Land Rovers (25 military and 36 civilian) and 13 military crews competed in MAN SVs, including personnel from our partnered unit 27 Regt. Over two days each crew completed more

8 RLC Mil Skills 2019 Best Female Reserve team winners

than 20 tests including manoeuvring, trials and orienteering, which were all linked by 150 miles of road navigation. After two hard days of driving and navigation, both on and off road across Central Scotland, the eventual winners in the Regimental class were SSgt Morris and Lt Pugh of 239 Sqn, with Cpl Middleton also of 239 Sqn, OCdt Fay of Tayforth UOTC and LCpl Wade of 27 Regt taking the honours for 1st LGV crew (“Dakar style”) in a MAN SV. Corps Col and Corps SM visit In Nov, the Regt hosted the Colonel RLC and Corps Sergeant Major on a visit to Dunfermline Station. After a unit presentation from the CO and the RHQ team, the visitors were given a tour of the Dunfermline Station infrastructure ahead of the anticipated rebuild by the QM, before moving to Edinburgh Castle where a series of briefings were delivered by the Sqn officers and soldiers from across the Regt on the in-year achievements to date and plans for the next 18 months including: exercises, AT, education and BCS focus along with plans to recapture long term non-attendees. The visit concluded with a trip to Murrayfield, where despite a valiant performance, Scotland narrowly lost to a clinical Springbok side.

8 LCpl S Wall – Top Shot 2018

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156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL CO: Lt Col T Gould QGM • Adjt: Capt C Monk • RSM: WO1 B Gallagher 8 WO2 Martin receiving his CGS’s

It has been yet another busy quarter for those in the North West’s Logistic Regt. 156 Regiment RLC has participated in a First World War battlefield study in Belgium and France, contributed across the region to the Armistice one hundred commemorations and the highlight of the year, was the annual regimental military skills competition – the Chalker Cup. Ex MASTERS SUSTAINER 381 (Lancaster) Sqn led a group of over forty soldiers from the Regt on a Battlefield Study to France and Belgium in Oct 2018. In what was a reservist led exercise, Maj Collier, the OC, nominated LCpl Hamer and Pte Rowan to formulate its content in conjunction with the military academic Dr Jonathan Fennell, from Kings College, London. Over four days of study, the exercise covered topics including; leadership, military innovation, CSS and the concept of remembrance. Members of the Regt had the opportunity to lay a wreath in the daily act of remembrance at the Menin Gate in front of hundreds of spectators.

The exercise was even more fitting, given that it was the hundredth anniversary of Pte George Masters being awarded his Victoria Cross.

Commendation from Comd 101 Log Bde

The exercise took the opportunity to follow his exploits and visited the site where he ran the gauntlet under fire to win his award in 1918.

Remembrance All five Squadrons participated in remembrance ceremonies within their own localities across the region; from Lancaster in the North, Salford in the East, Birkenhead in the South and Southport in the West. As the lead Army Community Engagement unit within Merseyside, WO1 (RSM) Brendan Gallagher, liaised, planned and ultimately executed an iconic Remembrance parade in partnership with the civic authority

Liverpool City Council. This year’s ceremony was all the more poignant with it being the hundredth anniversary of the First World War Armistice. In recognition of this and a deviation from the norm, the Regiment was asked to provide five soldiers wearing replica First World War regalia, to parade as the honour guard at the cenotaph. An estimated eighteen thousand spectators joined the numerous Tri-Service (principally reserve) military units drawn from across Merseyside.

Chalker Cup The culmination of the Regt’s year always ends in the Chalker Cup military skills competition. This year the event was held for the first time at Holcombe Moor Training Area.

The competition, designed to be both mentally and physically challenging consisted of command tasks, weapon handling, assault course and a section attack. The weekend was the perfect opportunity for the Bde Comd, Brig Ewart-Brooks to visit. Despite the inclement weather the event was enjoyed by participants and spectators alike. After a closely fought competition, 238 (Sefton) Sqn retained its title for the second time.

CGS’ Commendation Presentation As part his visit, Brig EwartBrookes presented a number of awards to members of the Regt, the most notable of which was a CGS’ commendation to the RAWO, WO2 Martin AGC(SPS). Following a career spanning twenty-six years in the Regular Army and a further twelve in the Reserve Forces, WO2 Martin’s contribution in the realm of administration has been nothing short of phenomenal. He is a very worthy recipient of such a notable award.

8 The Honour Guard at St Goerge’s Hall, Liverpool’s Remembrance parade

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157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CARDIFF CO: Lt Col A M Madams • Adjt: Capt A J Gutzu • RSM: WO1 K Williams

157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC came together in its traditional style at the beginning of Dec at the annual Christmas training weekend. Ex RUDOLPH DRAGON is the culmination of the year’s efforts over a weekend of competition, and features the soldiers’ traditional Christmas lunch.

This year personnel converged on the capital, Cardiff, to be woken up with the traditional Christmas treat of ‘Gun Fire’ served by the Commanding Officer. After the all important safety brief and warm up, teams representing the five Sqns set out to find a challenging round robin of stands ranging from a ‘Safe and Skilled’ stand, where personnel had to reverse various vehicle types around a series of obstacles, to stripping and assembling both the GPMG and SA80 A2 in the fastest times.

There was even a mini gun-run around Maindy Barracks. The soldiers had to navigate around the 12-mile route completing all the stands in the best possible time, to be in with a chance to win the coveted Ex RUDOLPH DRAGON trophy for their Sqn. 580 (Glamorgan) Transport Squadron fielded the winning team. Tipping the balance, they also won the Commanding Officer’s Sword Competition. Many congratulations.

Col Hearty QVRM VR, DComd 101 Log Bde, visited the Regt and 64

presented WO2 Wellstead with a CGS’s Commendation and Volunteer Reserve Service Medal (VRSM), Sgt Cooper (VRSM & Clasp), LCpl Moreman (VRSM) and WO2 (SSM) Williams received his Royal Warrant parchment.

Also in Dec, Maj Tindale the Executive Officer (XO) was promoted to Lt Col and he also celebrates the honour of being made an MBE in the New Year’s Honours list – a great end to 2018.

Ex KNEES STRETCH 157 (Welsh) Regt’s Nordic ski team enjoyed their time in Obertilliach, Austria joining others from the Corps on Ex KNEES STRETCH. The delegation consisted of Maj Abel, OCdt Pritchard, Ptes Thompson, Sherman, Leishman (has skied before) as well as Pte Breeds, (a complete novice) who deployed after passing out of basic training just one week before. All enjoyed the opportunity to hone their skills on the slopes, even with the daily

8 580 (Glamorgan) Transport Squadron Winning Team

inject of morning PT in the snow.

The team even found time for a cultural visit to Lienz before finally putting all that they had learned to the test on race day winning several medals – the regimental team left Ex KNEES STRETCH, very much looking forward to Ex SKI RLC. Attachments The Regt continuously seeks out opportunities for personnel to deploy and showcase their skills and this quarter has been no exception. In Nov, personnel deployed with paired regiment, 10 QOGLR, on Ex IRON PYTHON and Dec saw the return of personnel from several deployments: Ex JEBEL SAHARA alongside 2 YORKS in Morocco, Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 with 1 Regt RLC in Oman. Feb 2019 will see 12 personnel deploy on Ex KHUKURI CHIL in Germany, again with 10 QOGLR. The Regt will bid a fond farewell to several personalities over the coming months including the XO, Maj Tindale MBE. On promotion, he will take up a post at the DCLPA. The Adjt, Capt Rudge, is leaving the Army for a career in education and linguistics and the RSM, WO1 Williams, has been selected for an LE commission and leaves us after less than a year for 27 Regt RLC.

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158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH CO: Lt Col A Gifford TD • Adjt: Capt P Goodfellow • RSM: WO1 J Goodridge At the end of 2018, soldiers and officers from 158 Regiment RLC were deployed on several large exercises globally: Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE and Ex ASKARI STORM. Meanwhile the rest of the Regt was involved in the Armistice centenary parades around the country. Entering 2019, the focus on training will change to enhance BCS skills, in preparation for the Regt’s annual exercise in Slovenia.

Trident Juncture Exercise TRIDENT JUNCTURE was the largest package of NATO manoeuvres for years. Its scenario was based around an attack on an alliance nation, bringing into play article five of the organisation’s treaty – a robust military defence from all member states.

Members of 158 Regt deployed to Norway for the exercise in late Oct 18. As individuals augmented to 2Bn REME and 62 Sqn RLC, they could provide support in a variety of ways. Support to the initial deployment came in the shape of drivers and assistance to set and run convoy support centres. Sgt Tom Ratcliffe (200 Sqn) provided communications support throughout the whole exercise.

Captain Kelly (203 Sqn) and Captain Hueck (202 Sqn) deployed during the LIVEX phase. Capt Hueck was

utilised as liaison officer between 4 Brigade the Battle Group and Capt Kelly supported 62 Sqn as an operations officer controlling rear ops and real life support to the exercise. This was an exciting and challenging opportunity for reservists to deploy in support of a NATO exercise and integrate with regular army colleagues.

Remembrance weekend Nov marked 100 years since the end of the First World War – a conflict that saw 8.5 million soldiers globally lay down their lives. On Sunday 11 Nov all Sqns from 158 Regt RLC had soldiers and officers parading throughout the country to mark the event.

8 Capt Hueck and Capt Kelly on Ex TJ 18 160 Sqn (Lincoln) was involved in three events over the remembrance period: on the 4 Nov it provided a guard of honour at the Remembrance match held on Lincoln City FC’s ground, as well as a recruiting stand.

On the 10 Nov, the 2IC Capt S Jessop laid a wreath at the town centre civic parade and on 11 Nov the whole Sqn paraded at the Castle in Lincoln and marched to the Cathedral for the Remembrance service.

8 On Sunday 11 Nov all Sqns from 158 Regt RLC had soldiers and officers parading throughout the country

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159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COVENTRY CO: Lt Col P Allen • Adjt: Capt A Hanna • RSM: WO1 N Cabo The latter stages of 2018 and early 2019 have seen members of 159 Regiment RLC continue to deploy in role as logistic specialists both in the UK and abroad. The Regt has excelled on the sports field and in adventure training pursuits, commemorated Remembrance Day and had a member of the Regt receive a prestigious award in the New Year’s Honours List.

The Birmingham launch of the Poppy Appeal was a particularly well supported event at the beginning of Nov 2018. Soldiers from the West Midlands based Sqns braved the Birmingham weather, with collection buckets and ABF Poppy merchandise and were met with gratitude, generosity and in some cases free brews from the public. This was followed later in the month by Remembrance Day celebrations throughout the region, duly supported by soldiers from 159 Regt RLC. Soldiers from the Regt have deployed on regimental training concentrating doing what they do best; delivering logistics in the field.

Over the period of a training weekend, members of the Regt deployed into the field and simulated the establishment of a Field Storage Area in austere conditions. It was great training and mentoring and tested our Logistic Specialists.

Charitable work continued in the form of the annual regimental cake decorating competition immediately prior to stand down.

With entries from across the

8 Ex BARBARIAN SKI 19

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8 Remembrance Day military family including, Army Cadets, Air Cadets and members of the Regt, it was a closely contested battle. A combined effort from Air Cadets: Bates, Dryden and CarterPrice emerged victorious. The cakes were subsequently auctioned off for charity raising a total of £358 for good causes.

The Christmas period brought snow to the UK and West Midlands in particular. In sub-zero conditions, some lucky members from the Regt departed to France, to take part in Ex BARBARIAN SKI 19. This is an overseas adventurous training expedition. Whilst on the expedition 22 members of the Regt attained their Ski Foundation Level 1. It was an outstanding expedition lead by Capt Speak, who was ably assisted

by Captains Cox and Cunningham.

The New Year’s Honours List brought some good news for the Regt. After 33 years of combined service, regular and reserve, our Regimental Catering Warrant Officer, WO2 Guest, was awarded the Queens Volunteer Reserves Medal; only 13 such awards are made annually.

The Regt has welcomed back Maj Marshall from an extended deployment overseas in support of

8 WO2 Guest QVRM Op SHADER. He will shortly be departing the Regt and will be moving across to another reserve unit. The Regt wishes him every success for the future.

At time of writing, snow is a more welcome sight for those members of the Regt lucky enough to be deployed on Ex SKI RLC. A three week RLC Skiing Competition, fingers are firmly crossed in the hope the team will bring home some silverware.

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162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM CO: Lt Col T Hope MBE • Adjt: Capt B Spilsbury • RSM: WO1 J Thompson The last quarter of 2018 has been a busy period for 162 Regiment, with soldiers deployed across Europe on exercise and the Middle East on Operations.

In addition, the Regt has continued to deliver in a number of sporting events, including Badminton, Skiing and Hockey, the latter of which has seen LCpl Charlesworth-Cheshire-Newton selected for the Army team.

The Regt bids farewell to Maj Mike Deck QVRM who posts from OC 871 Sqn to HQ RLC as SO2 Reserves; he is replaced by Maj Chris Violet.

Ex ARCHERS OVERLORD Two weeks before the 100th anniversary of the end of WWI, 28 soldiers from the Regt, under the command of OC 281 Sqn Major Jerry Cross, undertook a battlefield study to Normandy.

Prior to the trip the group was split into four syndicates, with each syndicate given a research topic relating to Operation Overlord, the codename for the battle of Normandy (the Allied operation that launched the successful invasion of German-occupied Western Europe during WWII).

Day one of the study started with a visit to Pegasus Bridge, where the first syndicate gave their presentation and WO2 Andy Smith’s previously undiscovered acting talent was revealed during his recital of famous

Churchill quotes. Following a brief visit to Ranville to see a Commonwealth War Cemetery, there was a visit to the D-Day landing site, Sword Beach and then to Arromanches where there was a brief on the construction and operation of the Mulberry Harbour.

Day two saw the study groups head to the American sector. First off was Omaha beach, followed by a visit to the Overlord Museum.

The National Guard’s beachside monument set the backdrop for the third syndicate’s presentation which identified what lessons had been learnt from Ex TIGER, the codename for a series of large-scale rehearsals for the D-Day invasion.

Sainte-Mère-Église,a short distance behind the Utah beaches, provided the back drop for lunch the village church spire still adorned with a parachute depicting where an American parachutist had become

8 Members of 162 Regiment RLC ‘assaulting’ Utah Beach during Exercise Archers Overlord ensnared all those years ago.

From there it was a trip to the dunes of Utah beach to learn about PLUTO, the WW2 Pipeline Under The Ocean. The battlefield study concluded with a brief visit to the German war cemetery at La Cambe.

The Ex was an excellent experience. Everyone who attended the weekend took away a greater insight into not just the huge logistical implications surrounding D-Day but the sheer scale of sacrifice of those that took part in the landings.

Look forward 2019 begins in the same manner as 2018 finished with soldiers conducting pre-deployment training in preparation for Operations in the Middle East and regular attachments to 29 Regt RLC to conduct trade specific tasks in the JAMC and further afield.

The significant serial in the early part of 2019 will be preparation for the Regimental ACT scheduled to take place in Germany in Jun to Aug. The ACT will see 162 Regt soldiers conducting trade specific training and tasks whilst assisting 29 Regt RLC with the drawdown of PC and MC capabilities in BFG. 8 Members of 162 Regt RLC during their Battlefield Study in Normandy

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THE SUSTAINER | RESERVE UNITS

165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC PLYMOUTH CO: Lt Col C Hampton-Stone • Adjt: Capt P Cussins • RSM: WO1 M Dowland As 2018 drew to a close 165 Port and Maritime (P&M) RLC once again looked back on another busy and productive year in the Army Reserve. Congratulations must go to Captains Scammell and Thompson who were selected for promotion to Major and a warm welcome to the new QM, Major Chris McSherry.

The Regt also said goodbye to SPSI Grant Fulton who is leaving the Army and the outgoing QM, Major Garth Taylor who is going onto ICSC(L) and is currently scratching his head whilst perusing doctrine pamphlets.

165 also welcomed a new Honorary Colonel into the fold, Brig Justin Stanhope-White, who has already been presented with his very own blue jumper.

Additionally, three new Ptes completed their basic training: Rebecca Clark, Harry Woodhall and Samantha Acunin; welcome to the Regt.

Operationally, 165 P&M continues to support the Regular Army with Reservists deployed on Port Task Groups to Oman and Atlantic Patrol Taskings (North), as well as supporting the Sea Mounting Centre in Marchwood.

Training Training never stops at 165 P&M and Falmouth Docks was the setting for some Special to Arm (StA) training which was laid on by 232 Port Squadron in Nov. The training was well attended by all three Port Squadrons (232, 265 and 266) and is essential training to keep soldiers current and competent, as well as to learn new skills.

One task completed during the weekend was the grading back and infill of the helicopter landing site within the docks. This is the same process used when establishing a logistic beach unit and requires skilled operators to master equipment such as JCB 436 and JCB 541/70, as well as Terrex 35 T cranes.

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The training was visited by the CO, Lt Col Craig Hampton-Stone and the RSM, WO1 Mark Dowland, who addressed the soldiers and took the opportunity to promote two soldiers: WO2 Sion Batchelor became substantive and Cpl Richard Trevor was promoted to Sgt. The Port Squadrons were not the only ones brushing up on their technical skills either: 710 Operational Hygiene Squadron, based in Aylesbury, held a technical weekend training package aimed at improving and maintaining trade skills which was rounded off by its Christmas Function. During this training LCpl Yvonne Todd and Pte Ian Andrews were surprised but delighted to be presented a Commanding Officer’s coin to reflect their hard work and dedication to the Sqn.

8 Cpl Martin was privileged to ride a horse into the town at the head of the parade

Eleven members of the Regt were invited to take part in the Remembrance Service at the Royal Albert Hall and did a fine job of representing the Army Reserve on national television.

142 Vehicle Squadron travelled to Erquillines, Belgium, to pay its respects. The Sqn, which has a full title of 142 Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars, has a long and illustrious history, including having Sir Winston Churchill as one of its alumni.

During the trip Cpl Martin was privileged to ride a horse into the town at the head of the parade, replicating the arrival and subsequent liberation of the town by the Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars exactly 100 years ago.

8 The arrival and subsequent liberation of the town by the Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars was re-enacted as it took place 100 years ago

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

167 Catering Support Regiment RLC GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col J A Cattermull • Adjt: Capt J Caine • RSM: WO1 A Ward This quarter has seen an array of activities for the members of 167, winning 16 medals at Ex JOINT CATERER 18, supporting exercises in Germany and Norway, conducting several trade courses including an Officers and SNCOs cooking course for non-chefs and a quick few weeks skiing amongst other sports.

Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE 18 Ex TRIDENT JUNCTURE 18 was an enormous NATO led exercise with over 30 nations taking part. Its focus was to ensure that the multinational forces are trained and able to operate together, to respond to any threat, from any direction with a force of up to 40,000 troops.

167’s team, led by SSgt Lee Whiteley, comprised of Sgts Brian Hunt, Jeff Tomlinson and Jimmy Walker, Cpl John Bartlett, LCpls Keith England and Wendy Manning and Pte Andy Rawlinson, deployed in support of the 4th Infantry Brigade under the FSWO WO1 JJ Kingsbury.

The SNCO’s were there for six weeks, whilst the JNCOs opted to join the team for their two-week camp. The chefs were split between a former Norwegian Army base in Haslemoen and a sports facility in Åkrestrømmen. Åkrestrømmen cookhouse was a field kitchen setup, housed in the former ice rink and included the G4 accommodation, servery, dry store and dining room. The dry store was located inside the ice rink to reduce the chances of everything freezing solid outside! Trying to pour out a can of frozen beans for breakfast preparation at 04:30 just isn’t a barrel of laughs!

Haslemoen cookhouse was designed to feed up to 1,000 people, on a basic ‘stew style’ Norwegian menu, so the more complex British menus, feeding upwards of 1,800 soldiers, was a challenge to say the least.

A field kitchen was built at the rear of the cookhouse to expand the capability and carry out the vegetable preparation and cooking.

As it was -11°C the team wasn’t exactly over-run with volunteers for the veg shift. The team soon realised it wasn’t getting everyone fed as efficiently as it could, so it built a third servery.

Several functions were laid on for the Brigade Commander and several visiting dignitaries, which included the delights as a Trio of Beef served with a seasonal medley of vegetables, champ potato, sweet

8 Several functions were laid on for the Brigade Commander and several visiting dignitaries

potato rosti and rich beef jus. This was finished off with a smooth lemon tart recipe courtesy of the “River Cottage”.

Considering the complexities of the cramped accommodation, the restrictive and insufficient facilities at the cookhouse and the language barriers; an outstanding level of service was achieved.

It wasn’t all 14-hour days and no play though. All 167 Chefs took the opportunity of a couple of days in Oslo, exploring the sights, such as the Royal Palace and Viking Ship Museum.

Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 19 This annual Ex will be held on the 18 May 19. The competition is open to all regular and reserve chefs.

Please contact your CoC to get more information from WO1 (SSM) Barton on samantha.barton893@mod.gov.uk 8 A field kitchen was built at the rear of the cookhouse to expand capability

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THE SUSTAINER | OTHER UNITS

20 Transport Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps LONDON OC: Maj R Habbershaw • SSM: WO2 A Salihu During Sep, the Sqn was nominated within the Best Regional Partnership category at the 2018 RLC Foundation Awards.

The OC and 2IC attended the event alongside the Master Driver and the Clerk of the WCHCD. The Sqn has maintained a long working relationship with the Company which includes driver training its junior soldiers, as well as helping with its annual Magical Taxi Tour (more on that later).

The category was hotly contested but on this occasion the award went to The Royal Mail. The entire Sqn is extremely proud of its efforts and the local relationship it has built with the WCHCD. This nomination has only made the team more determined than ever to win the category at the 2019 awards ceremony.

The 20 Sqn affiliation with the Company is never worthier than at the time of year that the Magical Taxi Tour comes around. For those in the dark, the annual three-day tour organised by WCHCD is an all-expenses paid trip for children with chronic debilitating illnesses and life-limiting conditions to Disney Land, Paris.

This annual event has transported thousands of terminally-ill children to Euro Disney by black taxi and offers the children a magical opportunity to meet their

favourite cartoon characters, as well as offering much needed respite to their parents.

The event starts with a Big Breakfast at Canary Wharf which A/WO2 Hill, Sgt Russell and six Sqn members attended, met and talked to the 200 children and formed a line at the exit as they departed to wave them on their way.

Field of Remembrance The Field of Remembrance is a memorial garden at St Margaret’s Church organised annually by the Poppy Factory in Westminster. For eight days the lawn between Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament is marked out with 250 plots for Regimental and

8 2018 RLC Foundation Awards Armed Services Associations.

Members of the Sqn who took part in the recent Field of Remembrance this year also had the opportunity to meet HRH Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex.

Promotion and awards The Sqn would like to congratulate WO2 (SSM) A Salihu on his selection to WO1. It would also like to congratulate Maj Habbershaw and SSgt Chikwaka on receiving their Long Service and Good Conduct Medals, in addition to LCpl Singh and Pte Woodall whom received the RLC Conductor’s Coin.

Sports The Sqn continues to raise its profile in the sporting arena. After entering the Army cross country team relays, it managed to grab second placed Minor Unit with the OC encouraging the team from the rear and running alongside three other members of the Sqn; Maj Oxley, LCpl McGuire and LCpl Singh.

Farewell and welcome The Sqn bids a fond farewell to Pte Muir who left on promotion to 3MI and a warm welcome to Cpl McKay, LCpl Blair, Pte Coles, Pte Didcote and Pte Molloy.

8 Sqn personnel receiving their awards 70

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

132 Aviation Supply Squadron Royal Logistics Corps IPSWICH OC: Maj K Mann • SSM: WO2 Madine Continuing in the same vain as the autumn, the winter period for the Sqn remained busy. Ex LIGHTNING FORCE 18b, Ex IRON PYTHON, Ex TALON PYTHON and Ex SCOTTISH WARRIOR headlined the period with the addition of two successful charity events and the issue of a Conductors Coin.

Ex LIGHTNING FORCE 18b Oct 2018 saw an eight-man team from the Sqn led by SSgt Saimone Wacokecoke deploy with a Deployable Spares Pack (DSP) to support 653 Sqn, 3 Regt AAC Aircrew Under Training (AUT) and Front-line crews to ACT Level 2.

The DSP, a 750-line items of spares worth approximately £18 million, is carried on a six-vehicle convoy; this provides the Sqn with a chance to practice supply aspects of logistics.

Ex IRON PYTHON and TALON PYTHON As part of a 3UK XX end to end logistics testing exercise named Ex IRON PYTHON, 132 Sqn’s two-phased deployment involved a ten-man team initially deploying with 71 Avn Sp Coy to Stanford Training Area to provide Aviation Equipment Support (AES) materiel.

The team then moved to Kendrew Barracks with one of its three DSPs in support of 3 Regt Army Air Corps providing First-Aid Aircraft Outfit (FAACO) on the flying phase of the deployment, Ex TALON PYTHON. Ex SCOTTISH WARRIOR A battlefield study (BS) to Scotland, led by 132 Sqn’s Cpl McLeod on behalf of the Bn, was aimed at exploring the battles of Scottish independence in the period from 1300 to 1600. It included reenactment of the Battle of Bannockburn and visits to Sterling and Edinburgh Castles. The effort from Cpl Mcleod together with previous efforts earned her a Conductor's Coin - exceptionally well deserved.

London Poppy Day Nov saw Major Kerry Mann (OC) lead the Sqn to London's Liverpool Street Station under the banner of the Royal British Legion.

Comprising of collection teams from across the Attack Helicopter Force based in Wattisham, Suffolk 8 Pte Puttick doing what he does best

8 The Sqn in a reflective mood at Bildeston Village Remembrance ceremony

and Colchester's 16 Air Assault Brigade, soldiers, airmen and officers hit the station.

Armed with cash buckets, bags of wit, charm and youthful good looks (the LE Officers were kept in the background) the team of around 50 personnel mingled among the population of London's commuters selling poppies and other merchandise in an effort to raise money for the much-loved forces charity. The sum collected was a massive £18,000, a 57% increase on 2017.

A look ahead 2018 was another impressive year for the Sqn as it displayed dynamism, excelling in its activities.

2019 sees a line-up of more FOE including Exercises JOINT WARRIOR, TIGERS CLAW and CRIMSON EAGLE together with a Battlefield Study to Crete.

8 132 Avn Sup Sqn exploring defensive positions of the Scottish Battle

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THE SUSTAINER | OTHER UNITS

Logistics Wing, Cyprus Operations Support Unit (COSU) CYPRUS OC: Wg Cmd C Brown • OC JLS: Maj C Ralling • Adjt: Capt J Hill The RLC soldiers from COSU have continued to provide logistic support to the operational requirement on island. With the drawdown of the summer months, individuals from COSU have been skydiving, partaken in endurance events, local XC leagues and found time to participate in a number of further activities across the island.

Cyprus Walkdown In Oct, 11 members of Postal and Courier and Ammo Troop took part in the inaugural Cyprus Walkdown.

It’s a 25.7mile challenge, just shy of marathon distance where participants must navigate via a series of manned checkpoints from the top of Mt Olympus, Troodos (1,952m) to Happy Valley, Episkopi (sea level).

The team of 11 was the largest to enter the competition and remained together the whole way. Each team member showed stamina, grit and determination to cross undulating, arduous terrain in 28-degree heat in a very respectable time of 6 hours 45 minutes. It was interesting to travel so far on foot and explore some of the quiet Cypriot villages in the mountains.

Some members of the team will be tackling the challenge next year and hope to improve on the time set by 2018’s team.

Remembrance Day The sun shone once again on what was a very well observed Remembrance Day across the island. Services in Dheklia and Akrotiri were attended by RLC members of COSU. In Happy Valley, Episkopi, Sgt Odamtten (Ammo Troop) was selected to have the honour of carrying the Branch Standard on behalf of the RLC Foundation. He carried out the task with outstanding professionalism and a great credit to the Corps.

the Christmas period and the PC Operators dealt with a huge influx of mail in Nov and Dec. Due to the BFPO lead times, the Christmas campaign on the island began in Oct with PC Troop spreading the word about the rules and regulations with regard to online ordering, mail dimensions and methods of delivery.

Thereafter, a steady stream of Christmas presents arrived on island through the BFPO system for those permanently stationed and Op SHADER personnel.

As well as mail in, PC Troop also played a pivotal role in passing on letters to Santa!

In Dec, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited RAF Akrotiri and brought Christmas mail for individuals currently serving on operations. Meanwhile it was all hands-on deck for PC Troop which had soldiers on duty all the way up to Christmas Eve personally delivering items to families just in

8 HRH's The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at RAF Akrotiri

time - a true demonstration of the Christmas spirit.

The efforts of PC Troop were highly commended by Op SHADER and all permanent dependant units across the island. The PC Ops will now enjoy normal service resuming in Jan and find time for a welldeserved mince pie. They were not the only RLC soldiers on duty over Christmas from COSU. Ammo Troop ATs remain on permanent standby for EOD incidents on the island, Log Specs, Drivers and Movement Controllers all match the operational requirement across the Sovereign Base Areas. RLC soldiers across BFC are all commended for their continued efforts.

8 The team at the finish. From Left to Right. Cpl Gurung, LCpl Caseley, Cpl Davies, Capt Miller, Pte Jones, LCpl Limbu, LCpl Gurung, Pte Limbu, LCpl Ormerod, Pte Noble, Cpl Thapa

Christmas Undoubtedly the busiest time of the year for Postal and Courier Troop is 72

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) BENSON, OXFORDSHIRE OC: Maj E Andrews • SSM: WO2 G Johnson Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) continues to support heli operations and training, covering deployments and commitments overseas in the USA, BFSAI, SAIF SAREEA 3, Op TORAL and Op NEWCOMBE in Mali.

The new year saw the Sqn deploy personnel to Norway in support of Ex CLOCKWORK, and a new team will deploy to Mali in support of the RAF Chinook Force.

Additionally, there has been a great deal of work and planning from all department heads in preparation of the Sqn’s CT1 and CT2 exercises. These exercises will test all personnel on their fieldcraft knowledge and allow the RAF personnel within the Sqn to acquire new skills. CT2 will validate individual Heli-Handling skills, with JHC supporting the Ex with a variety of aircraft. The Ex is vital for maintaining currency in the Sqn’s primary role.

Sqn Ops Sqn Ops continues to balance requests and tasks from the wider defence community. These tasks are all carried out in addition to the management of the Sqn’s tactical load parks within RAF Benson and RAF Odiham, which is crucial to the training of aircrew and ground units. During this quarter, JHSS said farewell to Maj Mark Hale the Ops O, who was dispatched in

traditional style with a leap into a freezing cold river on a Nov morning, with the remainder of the team joining him. The Sqn welcomes Capt Carl Genari as the new Ops O. Military Air Operations Team (MAOT) The MAOTs continue to deploy in support of operations worldwide.

As well as commitments in Mali, Afghanistan and the USA they have also been busy in the UK, including Op SIRPLE, the US presidential visit to the UK. Alongside other Sqn personnel they operated and ran three separate HLS including RMAS Sandhurst and Chequers House.

Working alongside the US Secret Service, they ensured the safe arrival and departure of Marine One carrying POTUS and FLOTUS. They also worked with Cdo MAOT and JADTEU to undersling a

8 Maj Mark Hale was dispatched in traditional style with a leap into a freezing cold river

decommissioned RN Sea King Helicopter from a CH-47 for delivery to Marchwood Port. This was then loaded onto a ship and taken to Norway where it was donated to the Norwegian Armed Forces.

Comms Tp JHSS Comms Tp is essential in maintaining safety during aviation tasks being the link between the ground callsign and the aircraft.

JHSS now has Comms Specialists flying with aircrew in order to educate operators on air ops and identify the optimum time to establish ground to air links and reducing risk.

Alpha and Bravo Tp Both Troops played an equal part in supporting operations, exercises and routine tasks, with many of the troops clocking up plenty of flying miles.

In Dec, RAF Benson held its own ‘Winter Wonderland’ which included several events and competitions, one of which was the Best Dressed Christmas Tree, won by JHSS. A Troop organised the JHSS Christmas function which was headed up by Cpl Wakeham with the help of SAC Jones and SAC Shippey, a great night was enjoyed by all.

B Troop welcomed SSgt Smudge Smith as the new Tp Comd and Cpls Matavesi and Saunders as new Sect Comds.

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THE SUSTAINER | OTHER UNITS

Silver Stars

OC: Maj R M McSpadden

2018 marks the first year as an official Army Parachute Display Team for the RLC Silver Stars, alongside the Red Devils, PWRR Tigers and the REME Lightning Bolts. And what a year it has been!

Joint Services Parachute Wing The 2018 season commenced with a two-week pre-season training exercise at the Joint Services Parachute Wing in Cyprus.

Seasoned display jumpers, new parachutists and many in between deployed to gain experience together, both in the skies and on the ground.

Following a week of currency and developmental jumps and classroom-based activity, mock displays were conducted around the island, including at breathtakingly scenic locations in Dhekelia and Episkopi. The trip was hugely successful, qualifying former ground crew as display jumpers and training new members to conduct the safety-critical ground duties.

Display season With all display bookings now being formally coordinated through HQ Regional Command, the days of cheap parachute displays are a

thing of the past, particularly for Regimental events unless they support Civil Engagement or Recruiting outputs. In spite of this development, administration and conduct of displays has not changed and OC, Maj Rick McSpadden, and Team Leader, SSgt Dean Hoskins, faced as busy a year as ever.

The Silver Stars’ display season saw the team conduct displays all over the country, including the nationally televised Ebor Festival at York Racecourse to a crowd of 30,000, an Armed Forces Day (AFD) event in Northern Ireland and, of course, the annual RLC Corps Open Day at Deepcut where the team fielded ten display jumpers into the main arena.

It also had the honour of representing the Army at the National AFD in Wales along with the Royal Navy Raiders and RAF Falcons.

In Aug, The RLC fielded its largest team in recent years at the Armed Forces Parachute Championships 2018. Stiffly fought battles ensued throughout the week-long competitions and The RLC contingent walked away jingling

8 It was a gold medal for the AA 4-way formation skydiving team

with success; gold medal in AA 4-way formation skydiving (Capt Amii Calway, Capt Vikki Sorrell, WO2 Grant Macpherson, SSgt Andy Clark); gold in two-way canopy relative work (Maj Dave Pickersgill, SSgt Dean Hoskins); silver in wingsuit acrobatics open (Capt Amii Calway) and bronze in Team Accuracy (SSgt Dean Hoskins, Maj Dave Pickersgill, SSgt Nathan Lewington, Cpl Scott Cozens, Cpl Dave Icely). A huge congratulations to all who competed.

Birthday celebrations In Oct, the team celebrated its 55th anniversary with a Regimental dinner night held at South Cerney, which brought together current and former team members, Corps Colonel, Sport Parachuting Association members and team sponsors.

Preparations have already commenced for the 2019 season, specifically the pre-season training in Cyprus during Mar 2019. The requirement for female only displays has emerged and is anticipated to increase, with Capt Amii Calway taking the lead.

The Silver Stars’ continued survival as the oldest army display team relies on finding new team members, to include female and BAME sport parachutists. If any RLC personnel wish to find out how to join the team, please contact Cpl Dave Icely at 29 Regt RLC, who is the only full-time member of the team.

8 The RLC contingent walked away jingling with success from the Armed Forces Parachute Championships 2018

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

Defence Munitions (DM) Kineton Station TEMPLE HERDEWYKE CO: Lt Col J N Williams • SSM: WO1 S Brennan This quarter has seen Kineton continue to punch above its weight with its output to wider Defence. The autumn and winter has seen ammunition processing at a scale not experienced since Op HERRICK; yet talented soldiers are still finding the time to represent the Corps at various sports and establish themselves as Defence leads in STEM. Defence Munitions The Ammunition Processing Area (APA) has been fully operational for the past six months and there is no shortage of work. The Ammunition Technicians had the opportunity to flex their command and technical skills as The Corps of Royal Marines deployed to Kineton to aid in the delivery of an urgent requirement.

The task of re-fuzing and repalletising 45 tonnes of 105 mm artillery shells was quickly tackled due to the technical competence of the ATs and drive of the Royal Marines.

This quarter has also seen the depot deliver in Defence Engagement, with the Armed Forces of Ukraine visiting to further understand the gold standard practice in ammunition storage.

Community Engagement Nov saw Kineton successful in its bid of £20,000 from the Armed Forces Covenant Trust. This coveted grant will allow Ammunition Technicians to continue to deliver

the Government’s STEM Learning initiative and promote Explosive Engineering to the next generation.

It will further allow Kineton to branch out as an Army STEM Hub, having the capability to provide CPD to STEM Ambassadors across the service.

The recent months have seen continued work with West Midlands cadets, including supporting them on their Winter training camp where the cadets were given engineering tasks to develop their teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Meanwhile, the STEM Team has also been active in the East Midlands with the National Museum of Computing. The museum hosted a #STEMgirls day which saw 88 girls tackling a variety of coding and engineering challenges.

8 The Armed Forces of Ukraine paid the depot a visit

Sport The Commanding Officer has had the pleasure of presenting four different Corps Colours over the past three months. Sgt Charlesworth for cyclocross, Cpl Jennings for road cycling and LCpl Seal for waterpolo and swimming. All three have displayed dedication to their chosen sports and the Corps and their recognition is well deserved.

Dec saw seven personnel deploy on Ex KNEES STRETCH in Austria, The RLC’s Nordic skiing expedition aimed at developing all levels of experience. It saw the troops undertake ten days of skiing in the Austrian Alps with a view to using new skills at Ex SKI RLC in Germany.

Since Oct, Kineton has been participating in the Regional Command Indoor Rowing League for the third year running. This online league is aimed at promoting the sport of indoor rowing across all three services and the Civil Service.

The event gives personnel monthly challenges to develop their physical capacity and mental toughness as they battle the machine - a timely challenge as they work off their holiday indulgence!

8 Dec saw seven personnel deploy on Ex KNEES STRETCH in Austria

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THE SUSTAINER | OTHER UNITS

821 Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Search Squadron WIMBISH CO: Lt Col S Stuthridge • Adjt: Capt M West • RSM: WO1 P Stewart Soldiers and officers from 821 have enjoyed another busy but rewarding period over the past few months with personnel deployed to locations all across the world, including Kenya, Iceland, Oman, Albania, USA, Arnhem, France, New Zealand, Falklands Islands and Australia.

Mainly, 821 EOD&S Sqn deploys to sp the Air Assault Task Force and Lead Commando Group.

ASKARI PINEAPPLE 821 EOD & Search Sqn deployed out to Kenya on ASKARI PINEAPPLE 18. Despite civilian unrest, an initial inability to source a tv signal for the World Cup, intermittent Wi-Fi, no phone signal, all combined with the world's supply of crickets, ASKARI PINEAPPLE 18 was extremely successful.

During the deployment, several attempts were made during the initial phase to move up to Operating Base (OB) SIMBA from Nanyuki but this was prevented due to rioting within Archers Post town. The delay in moving up resulted in the training planned for OB SIMBA being conducted in Nyati, but this had no effect on the clearance with the baseline working hard to ensure all areas were covered.

The baseline successfully cleared seven areas over arduous and 8 Members of 821 EOD&S Squadron RLC conducting IEDD training with the KDF

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challenging terrain under the command of Cpl Bennison. The area cleared was more than 13 km2 resulting in 58 explosive finds of various natures of 105mm projectiles and 81mm mortars.

SSgt Griffiths and Sgt Bacon ran the EOD Team to dispose of the explosive finds, resulting in 26 demolitions; these demolitions have included safe to move, minimum move for disposal and blind demin-situ Render Safe Procedures.

Sgt Smith and LCpl McCaffery undertook an extensive community outreach programme within the Archers Post area during the time the Sqn was located at OB SIMBA. They visited 13 schools and provided 10,000 litres of safe drinking water.

Kenyan Defence Force (KDF) Partnering in the form of IEDD training was conducted by Capt Lee, SSgt Woodhall and Cpl Skea with the integral KDF EOD team.

8 The Sqn visited 13 schools and provided 10,000 litres of safe drinking water

SSgt Willis and a team of four members of the Sqn undertook an infrastructure project within the area surrounding Archers Post.

Playground items, chairs, benches, tables and shelves were donated to two local schools and a water harvesting project was also completed.

Throughout the deployment the evenings were utilised to conduct additional training, making best use of the Sqn being away.

Cpl Payze conducted lessons on the KDF M4 weapon.

The best use of qualifications and skill sets were exploited while deployed to ensure the opportunities of the deployment were utilised to their fullest.

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

105 Logistic Support Squadron (BATUS) OC: Maj L Davis

As the exercise period for 2018 has drawn to a close in BATUS, it is business as usual for 105 Sqn as the first phase of Ex Prairie Phoenix has started.

As the tempo drops a little 105 Sqn is using the time to get ready for its annual logistic inspection (LSA&I). The various departments in 105 makes it possible for the Sqn to perform its tasks as expected; to support and maintain BATUS during and after exercise periods.

Fiji Independence Day Celebration Fiji Day is celebrated on 10 Oct and marks the anniversary of both Fiji’s cession to the United Kingdom in 1874 and its attainment of independence in 1970.

The year’s event was open to all British and Canadian Forces Base (CFB) in BATUS. Commander BATUS and Commander CFB were special guests of honour for the occasion.

Colourful shirts were worn and guests were treated to a host of entertainment acts and numerous Fijian delicacies. The event enabled a better knowledge of Fiji’s history of Independence and understanding of its cultures, traditions and values. This event was put together by the Fijian community in BATUS, headed by SSgt Taukei (FPO).

8 The hardest of all the events in the OC’s Cup was the Cross Fit competition

Dashain and Tihar Nepalese people all over the world celebrate the Dashian festival.

According to Hindu teachings, it marks the victory of Ramayana over the evil demon king Ravana and over the demon Mahisasur.

Temporary Staff from 10 QOGLR organised a Dashain and Tihar festival on 2 Oct 2018. A variety of entertainment was provided by 10 QOGLR soldiers, which included traditional performances such as the Khukuri dance, Jaruri dance and singing.

BATUS Deputy Commander and the RSM were VIP attendees.

Members of 105 Sqn and their families, as well as the wider BATUS community, were also in attendance.

Ice Hockey The ice hockey arena was reopened for the winter season.

8 A snowy Remembrance parade in Calgary

The 105 Sqn and MT Chieftains Team won their first game against the Flames (QMT). Skate school was open to all BATUS military and civilian personnel. In 2017, the Chieftains had their best result in the last ten years by coming second out of five teams. Hopefully they will go one step better to take the ultimate position this year.

Remembrance Day 105 Sqn represented BATUS in Calgary to stand by the Canadian Army as it remembered 100 years since the First World War. This featured a march through the Memorial Drive in Calgary on a very snowy winter’s day.

OC’s Cup 105 Sqn OC’s Cup, a yearly event in BATUS, saw the various departments forming four teams to compete in five events: Battle PT, Volleyball, Football, Cross Fit and Basketball.

The purpose of the OC’s Cup is to foster greater cohesion amongst team members, whilst at the same time testing their competitiveness.

The hardest of all the events was the Cross Fit competition which took place in Medicine Hat after which all participants were treated to Wednesday wings night.

This year’s event was won by Store Shed, with SSgt Curley and LCpl Fleming organising the event.

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORTS REPORT

By SSgt Simon Gowing Exercise RLC Runner, the inaugural Corps running development camp was held in Keswick in October 2018. 22 RLC runners (Regs and Reserves) attended the camp that was hugely beneficial in identifying emerging RLC running talent from across the Corps. Due to popular demand and its success the date for Ex RLC Runner No2 has been fixed 1-6 Sept, details will come out late spring.

RLC Cross Country Champs with new race category Attracting 241 runners The Corps Cross country champs were held for the first time on 14 Nov 2018 in Tidworth and prior to the Ski season. This facilitated greater participation and a more challenging running route. To attract more mature talent a “Super masters” category (male 50+, female 40+) was added to the event and worked a treat with eight runners making the new category.

A big well done to all runners, teams and prize winners, team managers and organisers for outstanding performances and support and a special thank you to all unit chain of commands for supporting RLC Athletics and Cross country.

With too many medallists to name, full results can be viewed at www.race-results.info (type RLC in the search bar).

Jan 19 Army Cross Country Champs This year’s Army champs took place in January 2019 at 3 RSME in Camberley with a strong field of 443 runners, 56 from the Corps. Top prizes went to RLC Runners Maj Ady Whitwam (RMAS) 1st Master

8 The park runners with the Corps Colonel RLC

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RLC runners your Corps needs you!

and 2nd overall, Capt Kev Sheppard (CLR) 2nd master, 3rd overall and Pte Elly Tarus (6RLC) placing 13th senior and 15th overall. Top Female prize went to Capt Ffion Harris (25 RLC) 12th overall.

Inter-Services and Inter-Corps Champs The Army Inter-Services took place this in Feb 2019 at RAF Halton with 3 Corps runners selected for the winning Army master’s team.

Maj Ady Whitwam came 2nd, and Capt Kev Sheppard 3rd, making a big impact to the team. Pte Dave Westbury was away skiing, but a big congrats to him on selection again and his 3rd place victory at the RMAS 10k road in Sept 2018.

27 Feb 2019 was a scorching hot day for this year’s Inter-Corps

8 The RLC Champs

8 Day 5 runners and DS on top of “LA Trigg” with background view of Derwentwater

champs at Tidworth. Even though we had many of our top runners out due to exercise, injury and 20 away skiing the selected team on the day pulled it out of the bag with lots of new regular and reserve talent coming through the ranks to join the team. Thank you and congrats to all selected runners (too many to list) especially to those who made the event on the day, great running all round. We entered every race category apart from the female masters due to falling short by one female masters runner. Everybody performed exceptionally well on the day and gave it their all!!! Results can be viewed on the above website.

Upcoming opportunities: • Weekly Saturday morning 5km Parkruns www.parkrun.org.uk • Wed 1 May RLC AthleticsAbingdon • Exercise RLC Runner 2 (1-6 Sep) Want to become an RLC Runner? Ensure you follow @RLCRunners on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook #RLCRunners #WeAreTheRLC for latest updates and info or contact the RLC Corps Cross Country Team manager SSgt Si Gowing Simon.gowing116@mod.gov.uk

www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

OBITUARIES | THE SUSTAINER It is with great sadness that we report, Staff Sergeant Anthony Keating passed away on 21 Jan 2019, aged 43. Tony was a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Explosive Ordnance Disposal Operator in 521 EOD Squadron, 11 EOD & Search Regiment RLC. Born on 27 Jan 1975, Tony joined the British Army in 2001 and following a brief spell in the Royal Signals, later that year he transferred to the Intelligence Corps. He rapidly qualified as an Intelligence Operator, was promoted to Lance Corporal in 2003 and was deployed to Northern Ireland for a six-month tour shortly after. He made a strong contribution within the Weapons Intelligence environment during his tour and had his first exposure to the Ammunition Technical trade.

In 2004, following his Northern Ireland deployment, Tony took the decision to re-trade as an Ammunition Technician (AT) in the Royal Logistic Corps. During his 14 years as an AT, he committed to ever more challenging operational deployments, on the UK mainland and overseas. These included operational tours of Iraq, Afghanistan and North Africa.

In 2015, Tony took an instructor post at the Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD) Training Squadron, Defence EOD Munitions and Search Regiment (DEMS). There, he discovered his unique talent for IEDD training.

His vast operational experience, coupled with

Ernest was born in February 1883 in Bethnal Green to John Jordan and Ann Waller.

In 1908, he married Matilda Florence Bradbury and they had two daughters; Matilda Caroline and Irene. Ernest joined the Army Service Corps in December 1915. He served in the UK until May 1917, when he sailed to France with the BEF. In November 1917, he sailed to Italy to serve with the 23rd Divisional Train. Tragically, Ernest died when his horse-drawn wagon fell into the River Piave on 30 October 1918. It was thought his body was not recovered. 100 years later, new research came to light that identified the grave of an Unknown Soldier of the Army Service Corps in Giavera British Cemetery to be Ernest’s final resting place. The headstone was changed to reflect this. A rededication Service with members of Driver Jordan’s family in attendance took place on Wednesday 21 Nov 2018.

exceptional communication skills and patience, singled him out as a most capable IEDD trainer.

In 2017 he returned to Catterick Troop, 521 EOD Sqn, where he had spent much of his career. There he continued to coach and mentor ATs and Officers in preparation for challenging EOD courses. His students proved exceptionally successful and in this regard, SSgt Keating made a truly unique and distinguished contribution within 521 EOD Sqn. His lasting personal influence over the professional development of so many will remain a key aspect of his legacy within 11 EOD&S Regt RLC. Tony made an outstanding contribution within the British Army’s Bomb Disposal community. One of the Royal Logistic Corps’ most qualified and experienced Bomb Disposal Operators, he was also a man of great warmth, compassion and understanding. He was held in the highest regard by all within the very closeknit EOD community.

A Newcastle lad, Tony had settled in his family home in Whickham, Newcastle-uponTyne. A military funeral was held in his honour on 5 Feb 2019 in his local parish church. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife,Victoria and his three children, Noah, Finlay and Phoebe, as well as by his wider family and friends throughout the Armed Forces.

8 SSgt Anthony Keating RLC

8 Driver Ernest Robert Jordan 1883 to 1918

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THE SUSTAINER | LAST POST

LAST POST Ahearne – On 12 Aug 18, Maj C J Ahearne MBE RAOC Allen – On 14 Sep 18, Col B Allen RAOC Bailey – On 15 Aug 18, Mr Bailey RAOC Barge – On 19 Nov 18, Mr (ex-SSgt) A C Barge RAOC Baxter – On 29 Aug 18, Mr J J Baxter RAOC Bennett – On 29 Sep 18, Mr (ex-WO1(Cdr)) A E Bennett RAOC Broughton – On 9 Nov 18, Mr L Broughton RCT Bunting – On 28 Sep 18, Mr K S Bunting RAOC Callan – On 21 Aug 18, Maj Gen M Callan CB late RAOC Cant – On 27 Aug 18, Mr (ex-WO1 (Cdr)) L W Cant RAOC Catchpole – On 11 Oct 18, Mr C Catchpole RAOC Church – On 14 Oct 18, Col D L Church late RAOC Collinson – On 10 Jan 19, Mr W Collinson RCT Crabbe – On 4 Dec 18, Maj F Crabbe GTR/RCT Croft – On 3 Aug 18, Lt Col H G H Croft OBE RAOC Curry – On 22 Sep 18, Mr (ex-WO1 (Cdr)) U V Curry RAOC Davidson – On 18 Jan 19, Mr (ex-SSgt) B Davidson RAOC Dawson – On 11 Nov 18, Mr (ex-WO1) J S Dawson RAOC Dixon – On 15 Jan 19, Mr D Dixon RLC Dodkins – On 1 Mar 18, Mr R A Dodkins RAOC Dopson – On 9 Oct 17, Mr A R Dopson RAOC Dunthorne – On 11 Jan 19, Mr (ex-SSgt) A R Dunthorne RASC/RAOC Edwards – On 6 Jan 19, Mr D Edwards RAOC English – On 23 Oct 18, Maj D J English RAOC Feltham – On 2 Oct 18, Lt Col R H J Feltham RAOC Flynn – On 4 Jan 19, Capt DM Flynn RLC Forbes-Ritte – On 20 Dec 18, Capt RL Forbes-Ritte RCT Foster – On 27 Oct 18, Maj J T Foster RAOC Fox – On 23 Oct 18, Maj J E Fox RAOC Gallagher – On 28 Sep 18, Mr T A Gallagher RAOC Garrick – On 1 Mar 18, Capt G Garrick RAOC Godwin – On 26 Nov 18, Maj PB Godwin GTR/RCT Griffiths – On 21 Sep 18, Col D J P Griffiths late RAOC Habgood – On 11 Oct 18, Mr (ex-Sgt) W E C Habgood RAOC Hale – On 31 Oct 18, Col G H Hale Late RAOC Harland – On 30 Jan 18, Mr J M Harland RAOC Haynes – On 26 Feb 18, Mr R M Haynes RAOC

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Holland – On 1 Jan 19, Mr DLA Holland RLC Hooper – In Nov 18, Mr RJ Hooper RASC Hounslow – On 3 Jan 19, Mr E Hounslow RCT Hugo – On 18 Nov 18, Mr ECG Hugo RCT Jenkins – On 27 Dec 18, Maj L J Jenkins RAOC Johnston – On 18 Sep 18, Maj R M Johnston RAOC Kerrigan – In Aug 18, Mr G Kerrigan RASC Keung – On 14 Nov 18, Mr Wong Chi Keung RAOC Kinnear – On 22 Jan 19, Brig DT Kinnear OBE RCT Kirk – On 24 Jul 18, Maj A J Kirk RAOC Leadbetter – On 12 Nov 18, Mr H Leadbetter RAOC Logan – On 8 Feb 18, Col O Logan late RAOC McCarthy – On 9 Aug 18, Mr M F McCarthy RAOC Morton – On 14 Oct 18, Maj C J Morton RAOC Osborne – In Nov 18. Mr D Osbourne RASC Pannell – On 6 Nov 18, Mr (ex-Cpl) R M Pannell RAOC Poole – In Feb 19, Mr G Poole RASC Pritchard – On 9 Feb 19, Mr M Pritchard RASC Reader – On 19 Nov 18, Mr (ex-WO1) N Reader RAOC Richards – On 9 Oct 18, Maj V Richards RAOC Rickard – On 23 Dec 18, Maj AJ Rickard RASC/RPC Ritchie – On 21 Aug 18, Lt Col J D M Ritchie RAOC Sargeant – On 18 Dec 16, Mr J W Sargeant RAOC Scargill – On 3 Oct 18, Mr (ex-SSgt) C P Scargill RAOC Scott – In Jan 19, Mrs A Scott RCT Sinclair-Lee – On 3 Sep 18, Maj R Sinclair-Lee TD RAOC Smith – 25 Oct 18, Mr J Smith RASC Stapley – On 16 Sep 18, Maj R Stapley RPC & RLC Starkey – On 2 Jan 19, Mr (ex-WO2) J Starkey RAOC Sturman – In Dec 18, Mr D Sturman RASC Todd – On 9 Jan 19, Col PKA Todd OBE late RCT Upton – On 24 Mar 18, Lt Col E D Upton RAOC Wallace – On 20 Jan 19, Mr W Wallace RAOC Washbrook – On 13 Jul 18, Mr K L J Washbrook RAOC Weightman – On 13 Dec 18, Mr A T W Weightman RAOC West – On 21 Aug 18, Mr (ex-WO2) J A West RAOC Wilkinson – On 27 Oct 18, Mr T Wilkinson RASC Willis – On 20 Aug 18, Brig M G D Willis late RAOC Wilson – On 2 Dec 18, Mr (ex-Sgt) E Wilson RAOC Windsor – On 17 Aug 18, Mr D Windsor RAOC

www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @RHQ_The_RLC

CORPS LOGISTIC

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THE REV IEW 201 8-2019

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You are invited to submit an essay for publication in the 2019-2020 RLC Review Since its formation in April 2015, the focus of the RLC Foundation has been to promote professional engagement with industry and academia and share best practice; maintain awareness of innovation and to encourage and facilitate thought leadership.

As part of this process The RLC Foundation is inviting officers, soldiers, veterans and civilians working for the military, or in the logistics industry and academia, to contribute thought provoking essays to the 2019-2020 Review. The Review is the professional journal of the RLC and is distributed to members of the Corps serving at home and abroad. This includes all NATO headquarters and the exchange officers based in the USA and Australia. It is also sent to all RLC Foundation corporate partners, supporters and friends.

Essays may be written under the following overarching categories: • Professional Development • General Interest • Operations and Training • Historical Cash prizes There are cash prizes for the best contribution in each category. Prizes are also awarded to: • The best contribution overall • The best contribution by an officer

• Best contribution by a warrant officer or senior non-commissioned officer • Best contribution by a junior non- commissioned officer • Best contribution by a junior officer • Best contribution by a private soldier • Best contribution by a civilian Rules Essays must not exceed 5,000 words and must be properly referenced and supported with good quality relevant illustrations and images.

All articles submitted for publication will be read and marked by the senior officers that make up the RLC Foundation Review board. The prize winners will then be selected from the essays they judge as good enough for publication.

8 The closing date for submissions for the 2019-2020 Review is 30 May 2019.

Entries are open now and submissions should be sent to Chrissie Ross at: Chrissie.Ross100@mod.gov.uk