The Sustainer - Spring 2022

Sustainer THE

Journal of The Royal Logistic Corps R SPRING 2022

World-class • Innovative •Adaptable

We Sustain

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 30 No 1 R Spring 2022

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Contents 2 Maj Gen ST Hutchings OBE A message from the new MGL

10 Future Soldier How it impacts on The RLC

14 RLC Chefs Feeding the UK’s Specialist Military Units

16 BATSUB The RLC smashes it in Belize

22 Ex FALCON AMARANTE 21 13 AASR swaps planes for trains

26 Heads of Trade Systems Analyst, Ammo Tech, VSS

31 Sports reports RLC sport comes out of lockdown

37 Falklands 40 The RLC Museum remembers Op CORPORATE

40 Lightening Force An RLC officer’s experience working within team F35

42 Unit news A round-up of reports from across The RLC

76 Whisky Galore!

2OSG's Jacobite rebellion Battlefield Study

EDITOR’S NOTE Just as we begin to put the COVID-19 pandemic behind us, that unthinkable thing British Army of The Rhine (BAOR) veterans, such as myself, trained to face has rolled into the Ukraine.

As I write my editor’s note, I cannot help casting my mind back to the mid 1980s, when the British Army was present in corps strength - three armoured divisions - prepared to face an invasion by the USSR - with our numerically stronger American allies.

After decades of changes in terms of the political and threat landscapes, defence cuts – which started with ‘Options for Change’ in 1990 - and a focus switch to the Middle East: today the British Army possesses an appropriate force to help defend against our old adversary of two armoured brigades, an armoured infantry brigade, an artillery brigade, an air defence group and a close support engineer group.

By the time you read these words, this ex BAOR warrior sincerely hopes that the West’s political will, lethal support to Ukraine, the incredible resolve and bravery of that nation’s military and population and economic sanctions, will have done their work, seeing Russian forces return to their bases in their motherland. Anything less is a dismal prospect.

One positive is our allies in Europe have rapidly woken up and smelt the vodka, with announcements of increased spending on defence. I hope the UK follows suit, so we are better equipped to face every threat.

In this issue the new Master General of Logistics introduces himself, sets out his intentions, highlights his priority themes for the Corps and on pages 10 and 11 we include the details of ‘Future Soldier’ and how it will affect The RLC and its basing. We bring you an insightful report from an RLC Major serving with the F35 Lightning Force and the experiences of an RLC Captain who recently completed a tour as the first female and first non-infantry Operations Officer at the British Army Training Support Unit Belize.

Hot on the heels of this edition of The Sustainer, will be the publication of the 2022 RLC Foundation Review in April. At 128 pages it contains some very well written and researched articles and for the first time, it will be circulated electronically direct to the majority of serving recipients.

For the summer edition of The Sustainer, I will be asking for articles themed around ‘People and Ethos’.

An objective of The RLC Corps Strategy, we would like to hear about how you are professionalising and valuing your people at every level, what measures you take to strengthen ethos and how you maximise talent; whether that be your own, or members of your team.

I hope you enjoy this edition and thank everyone who have contributed.

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

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

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

Editorial Staff Editor: Peter Shakespeare Editorial assistant: Miss Katherine Lack Email: rlcsustainer@gmail.com Graphic Design: David Blake Copy deadlines for THE SUSTAINER: 11 Apr 22, 11 Jul 22, 7 Oct 22, 16 Jan 23 Change of Address: Serving members of the Corps who are due to move into or out of non-RLC appointments (eg E2) and other subscribers are requested to notify the Editor of their change of address. No information, no magazine!

Publisher: The Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps, RHQ The RLC, DCLPA Worthy Down, Winchester Hampshire. SO21 2RG. Email: peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Tel: +44 (0) 7901 676309 Typesetting, Printing, Binding and Distribution: Holbrooks Printers Ltd, Norway Road, Hilsea, PORTSMOUTH, Hampshire PO3 5HX. Data Privacy: We distribute The Sustainer using mailing data held in a secure contacts database within RHQ The RLC. Your inclusion on this database is by virtue of the fact you are serving in the military, or you are a current member of the RLC or Forming Corps

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

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

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

Front Cover: 13 AASR with French allies on Ex FALCON AMARANTE 21

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THE SUSTAINER | THE MASTER GENERAL OF LOGISTICS

#BritishArmyLogistics

A message from the new MGL In January 2022, Major General ST Hutchings OBE was appointed as the third Master General of Logistics. General Simon is currently serving within UK Strategic Command as Director Joint Support, based at MOD Abbey Wood. In the first edition of The Sustainer of his tenure, General Simon introduces himself, sets out his intentions, highlights his priority themes, whilst reflecting on the Army’s #Teamwork initiative and what it means to the Corps.

So what of my role and what does it mean to be the MGL? Well first off, it gets me out to see all of you delivering logistic effect, which is the best bit. But it also means that I’ll be championing the logistic function at the heart of decision making within the Army and into Defence.

I’m also responsible for the governance of The Royal Logistic Corps and with it the maintenance of our esprit-de-corps, including standards, culture, ethos and behaviours, more of which in a moment.

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I have been part of The RLC family since its formation in April 1993 and can trace my roots back a little further to parts of the forming union. What I can say sincerely, is that I am, and will always remain, a proud logistician; and as someone who has served with and alongside every trade and specialism we have in the Corps. It feels good to say that for I know that you all feel the same.

However, it is fair to say that as a collective across Defence we have not always afforded the correct level of importance to the role that logistics plays as a capability in enabling the way we operate and fight. Some of the causes relate to the structures, systems and processes required to deliver the logistic effect not being prioritised, whereas others stem from us occasionally self-censoring and not speaking up.

What is not in doubt though, is the quality of the people we have undertaking those logistic roles and specialisms across our regular and reserve regiments and units. I could cite many examples where this is the case, from distribution and movements tasks in response to the COVID pandemic, to force protection roles, embedded specialists or those sustaining global crises across the world.We are everywhere, always. At the forward edge of every operation, conflict or disaster sustaining and enabling those freedoms to operate.We also have 40% of the Corps working in support of other capbadges and Services, which in turn offers unrivalled opportunities to ply our trades and make a difference.

In this my opening gambit as your Master General of Logistics, I want to focus on three key themes and set out a little more about me and what motivates me.

The first relates to Future Soldier and our Corps Strategy. For the Corps the outcome is positive, for you will know that we’ve been able to preserve our Regimental structures at the right level and in the right numbers; a vital enabler to the way we envisage operating and fighting in an era of constant competition.

But we must not stand still for transformation is required to support a force that will be persistently engaged, more integrated and operating at greater reach at the same time as being more dispersed.

Going forward, we must build upon the functional expertise we have retained by exploding data to inform logistic choice and generate the freedom and tempo to manoeuvre.

So, there will be some turbulence and necessary upheaval, for change is unsettling, and it will need sound leadership to get us through it.You have my commitment and that of the senior leaders in the Corps to explain what we’re doing and why it matters; and we will, wherever possible, try and tailor the outcomes to fit individual needs.We must also all be comfortable with uncertainty though and be bold where it matters.

The strategic vision that we have set out in our Corps strategy is clear: A world class, innovative and adaptable Corps, sustaining continuous activity at home and around the globe. All underpinned by a people focussed ethos and the exploitation of data and cutting-edge technology.

In the coming months you will hear how we intend to

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

#BritishArmyLogistics

THE MASTER GENERAL OF LOGISTICS | THE SUSTAINER

refresh that strategy and you should be actively seeking to engage with it and support us in delivering the strategic goals and objectives.You will also hear how I intend to resource those outcomes with our own Corps non-public funds, where it is right to do so, particularly when it comes to supporting and developing our people.

Secondly, I wish to position The RLC at the forefront of the sustainability journey that the Army is embarked upon and guide where we must get to. As much as anything this will require a changed mindset, for I see significant opportunities to be enhancing operational effectiveness, which will inevitably be progressively degraded if no action is taken by not moving towards a more sustainable and greener logistic enterprise. In so doing we will maintain the principle that operational effectiveness and capability should not be compromised solely to deliver a sustainable solution.

The RLC should view itself as the enablers of SelfSufficient Operations. Striving for self-sufficiency on operations, through the generation of power via sustainable and portable equipment and technologies such as solar power, should be our aiming mark as it allows greater resilience. Energy efficiency can serve as a force multiplier, because it increases the range and endurance of forces in the field and can reduce the number of combat forces diverted to protect energy supply lines, which are vulnerable to both asymmetric and conventional attacks and disruptions.

Over the months ahead you will see a structured programme, underpinned by the Corps strategy, to harness ideas for how we, as a Corps, become fast followers in sustainable logistics.

Finally, and unquestionably the most important of my

themes relates to our culture and the standards and behaviours we exposure as a Corps.You will have heard that the Army is getting behind the notion of teamwork being the basis for exploiting the very best of working together. For it is about maximising the talents of all our people to achieve our goals and ultimately drive better operational outcomes.

You should know that I wish to see The RLC acting as the beacon for the rest of the Army to follow when it comes to creating inclusive, high performing teams comprised of leaders at all levels that can get the very best out of their people, working in concert to ensure that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.We have, after all, been an organisation with our trades open to all for longer than most and thus recognise that we can achieve advantage through difference. #Teamwork has to be about our day-to-day life where we actively strive to remove barriers, maximise diversity and enhance operational capability through true inclusion. I should add that this is not just about gender, race, and religion; for refreshingly we are increasingly recognising that social and cognitive diversity ought to form part of the conversation. As someone with neurodiversity (namely dyslexia) that I’d consciously hidden for most of my military career, I am now finally able to seek the positives and what it means for me.

Organisational diversity needs to be reframed around the narrative that it underpins operational effectiveness and is not just ‘the right thing to do’.

In conclusion, it is an honour and a privilege to serve our Corps as the MGL and in so doing I will use the platform it presents as the basis to serve you and to promote the cause of the logistics in the Army and Defence as a whole.

Master General of Logistics - Diversity, Inclusion and Behaviours Statement To all RLC Soldiers and Officers 1. As the MGL for The Royal Logistic Corps, I wish to see us acting as the beacon for the rest of the Army to follow when it comes to creating inclusive, high performing teams, that celebrate diversity and are an exemplar of positive behaviours.

2. Our purpose as logisticians is clear. We attract talent from the widest possible backgrounds for employment in a variety of roles across the world. It is important to work within a working environment where everyone can flourish, and the Army’s Values and Standards remain the bedrock to inform our thoughts, words and actions. However, as MGL I wish The RLC to go further and adopt ‘Kindness’ and ‘Understanding’ as additional core values.

8 Kindness Demonstrating humility and compassion in recognition that each one of us is human and vulnerable in some way; that no-one has all the answers, and everyone has a valid contribution to make.

8 Understanding Putting ourselves in the shoes of another

to understand the world through their lens with genuine curiosity that seeks to assist in providing what others need to receive, rather than what we want to give.

3. The ‘why’ is easy. It has been demonstrated time and again that equitable logistic organisations outpace and outthink their competitors. As a result, diverse and inclusive workplaces earn deeper trust and more commitment from their employees, creating a positive culture through good behaviour.

4. I intend to adopt the mantra ‘Advantage through Difference’ as the principle we can rally around and I will strive to lead an organisation where our people feel valued, supported and cared for. However, should our people feel it necessary, we will adopt a challenge culture where you are able to speak out safely and without prejudice.

The dividend is increased performance and operational outputs but more importantly people are just happier!

5. I hold myself personally responsible for creating an inclusive culture across The RLC. I will: • Strive for the right tone to be set throughout the Corps, leading by example • Improve my own level of awareness and understanding, learning from other

members of the Corps and from the external training and assistance that the Army mandates • Instigate an MGL Coin presentation in personal recognition for those that best exemplify Kindness and Understanding as core values • Invite diversity and inclusion advocates onto the RLC Regimental Council • Create greater diversity in the Corps Colonel Commandants Plot • Use inclusive language in all my dealings, be open to challenge and be prepared to challenge those who fall short • Include my preferred pronouns in my signature block and will explain why that encourages inclusion as part of my visits to units • Make the most of reverse mentoring opportunities and strongly encourage our Corps senior leaders to do so too • Create an MGL Advisory Board from across the Corps to listen and better understand the lived experience of our people and to use as a sounding board for ideas.

MGL January 2022

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

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A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE The Colonel RLC

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At the time of writing, the situation in Ukraine continues to develop. A timely reminder of disregard of the rules-based order by our adversaries and that we must be poised to react to global crises

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In my first contribution to The Sustainer as Colonel RLC, it would be remiss to not formally acknowledge the efforts, commitment and achievements of my predecessor who steered and steadied the ship through one of the most challenging epochs in recent history. I am immensely grateful to Colonel Jon West for all that he did for the Corps and wish him well for his future endeavours at Army HQ. As an introduction, and for those of you who may not know me, I commissioned in to the RLC in 1999.

I have had the privilege of serving across the Corps in the UK and Germany in a variety of Regimental Duty appointments. More recently I have held a series of operational roles that brought me into contact with a full variety of our trades on global operations where I have seen the amazing work being undertaken by our specialists. We should be rightly proud of how we are contributing to the success of Army’s contribution to operations at home and abroad.

I won’t attempt to summarise the huge contribution that the Corps continues to make to Defence. As always, the Unit Briefs within The Sustainer are superb, they encapsulate the diversity of operational output that you are each making to ensure that we continue to be a world class army.

The Future Soldier programme has well and truly landed and The RLC fared well. And whilst we will all be sorry to see 3 Regiment RLC being disbanded, opportunities across the wider Corps remain broadly unchanged, particularly at sub-unit level. I sense that there will be further opportunities going forward – data and digitisation are a huge part of the logistic industry – the RHQ and a discrete project team are actively seeking a blend of tech and trades to ensure that logistic data relevancy is enhanced in this digital era.

At the time of writing, the

situation in Ukraine continues to develop. A timely reminder of disregard of the rules-based order by our adversaries and that we must be poised to react to global crises.

OPSEC and the speed of developments preclude me from commenting further, but we wish a safe return to those who are supporting NATO contingency response, those assisting in the Humanitarian Response Task Force and those UK based staff working around the clock to deliver vital support forward. We Sustain.

For many years the Corps ran its own online PRI shop from the old Regimental Headquarters in Deepcut. With the move to Worthy Down it made eminent sense to refresh the service, expand our horizons and increase the level of quality, approved goods available to the diaspora of RLC personnel working across Defence.

To that end we have partnered with main supplier, Ammo & Co, to operate RLC Direct. It provides a much-improved shopping experience. Importantly, this new online ‘Corps’ shop ensures a source for uniform accoutrements that meet the correct MOD specification.

Specifically, for the Corps it brings revenue into The RLC Association Trust, which as your charity underpins all the privately funded aspects supporting The RLC. I encourage all of you to visit the shop at https://rlcdirect.com to browse the available stock lines.

A final word of massive congratulations to those who were recognised in the 2022 New Years Honours list: Col Craig Hanson (CBE); Col Kirsten Dagless (OBE), Lt Col Lucy Butler and Major Marty Hayes (MBE). Plus a huge haul of MSMs to Capt Biggs, WO1s Clarke, Cowan, Jackson-Smith, Phillips, Halliday, WO2s Cowan, Eva, Isle and SSgt Gurung. It is genuinely heartwarming to see so many friends and colleagues’ efforts rightly recognised against such tough competition.

Colonel P A Allen ADC

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#BritishArmyLogistics 62 Sqn deployed to Kenya on Ex ASKARI STORM 3/21 supporting the 2 Rifles Battle Group.Working within the CSS group, both Drivers and Suppliers were tested throughout the three-month deployment.The focus of the exercise was the development of trade skills and knowledge with an emphasis placed on both experimental methods of operating and dispersal.

The exercise also presented opportunities for soldiers to learn new skills like how to attach a helicopter under-slung load, such as a Quadbike or ammunition. All soldiers performed expertly, further increasing the reputation of 6 Regt RLC within the Corps and wider Army.

After the exercise, 62 Sqn personnel also took part in partnered training with the Kenyan Defence Force (KDF).

This saw soldiers take part in jungle warfare, SERE training and sporting activities which increased the understanding between the British Army and the KDF and contributed to the persistent engagement that the British Army hopes to achieve with the Global Hub footprints across the world.

During breaks from their duties, both soldiers and officers got the opportunity to conduct various AT packages and community engagement events. 95% of SP from the CSS group got to conduct AT, which included activities ranging from archery to white water rafting. Community engagement was equally well received too, with soldiers and officers from the Regt supporting ongoing community projects in schools, orphanages and prisons.The work that they achieved will have a lasting impact and make a real difference to the lives of those within the local communities. Until next time Kenya, Uende salama!

ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

Jambo from Kenya!

By Cpl Elliot, 62 Sqn, 6 Regt RLC

8 Cpl Elliot clinging to the raft

Looking for a new challenge We are recruiting!

?

Pte Johnson climbing down the cliff

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FROM THE RANKS

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Events in Ukraine have dominated the mainstream media, shocking the world.

As part of the UK’s response, some of the Corps are stood by at various operational readiness levels, with 1,7 and 29 Regiment’s deployed in supporting the humanitarian efforts in neighbouring countries

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Hello everyone. It is hard to believe that spring is upon us and it feels like so much has happened since my last ‘from the ranks’ update.Whilst visiting the Corps following the announcement of Future Soldier, I have been extremely impressed by Soldiers’ positive approach towards the impending change.We as the Soldiers of The RLC must continue to adapt, develop and embrace positive change.

The Corps has continued to be at the forefront of UK resilience operations and as the last of the MACA tasks drawn down, it its fair to say the Soldiers of the Corps have been instrumental in support of the Ambulance Services around the UK and I am incredibly proud of every one of you, who has been involved.

Events in Ukraine have dominated the mainstream media, shocking the world. As part of the UK’s response, some of the Corps are stood by at various operational readiness levels, with 1,7 and 29 Regiment’s deployed in supporting the humanitarian efforts in neighbouring countries.

Once again this proves the Soldiers of the Corps are relevant and ready to provide effect, where and when required.

As you will all be aware, the British Army recently conducted Op TEAMWORK. This was aimed at education, identifying and addressing our Cultures and Behaviours. As the most diverse Corps in the British Army, I believe the Corps should be leading the from the front regarding Diversity and Inclusion and look forward to seeing what direction comes next from Army HQ. As I write this article, we celebrate International Women’s day 2022. The Corps has some of the most inspirational women in the British Army, who are breaking down barriers every day. It seems fitting to congratulate WO2 Sheri Lucas MBE who was recently awarded the MBE

by Her Royal Highness The Princess

Royal at Windsor Castle. Also, in this Sustainer, is an account by Capt Hannah Kirkham of her time as the first female and first non-infantry Ops Officer at British Army Training Support Unit Belize.

At the start of my eighth month as the Corps SM, I continue to travel around the Corps impressed and humbled when meeting Soldiers, who always have a story to tell. One of my recent visits was to DM Kineton and it saw me meet and brief the Class 2 Ammunition Technician (AT) Course; who on their penultimate day were on great form, itching to get out and use their new professional AT qualification. Once again, I was privileged to attend AFC Harrogate’s Graduation parade welcoming 92 Soldiers to the Corps, as well as meeting the award winners and their families, some from The RLC. On the sporting front, the Men’s Corps Football team moved to second place in the Massey League, after recently beating last season’s league winners the Infantry 7-2. There was also huge success from 2Lt Kerenza Bryson, a Troop Commander at 165 Regiment, who won the National Modern Pentathlon. Her sights are now firmly set on representing Great Britain at the next Olympic games.

The Corps representation in the Inter-Services and Army Rugby squads continues to increase, with six Soldiers recently selected to represent both teams.

RHQ the RLC is about to take on the Medicine Ball Challenge, to raise awareness for mental health and supporting ABF the Soldiers Charity.

The Real-Life Support team and I continue to plan and refine Corps Open Day 2022. It takes place again at Duke of Gloucester Barracks South Cerney on 2 Jul 22 and we will deliver a day with subtle changes that will see less Soldiers working, giving more of you the ability to enjoy your Corps Open Day. WO1 C Sutherland Corps Sergeant Major RLC

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

#BritishArmyLogistics

ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

A Pass Out Parade surprise!

Friday 18 February 2022 marked another successful Pass Out Parade at the Army Foundation College Harrogate which saw the newest soldiers complete their Phase 1 training, including 96 junior soldiers who have joined The Royal Logistic Corps.

The event was particularly memorable for one soldier, Pte Leach, who received a surprise from his father the night before the Parade.

WO2 Leach, who is also serving in The RLC, had the privilege of surprising his son by presenting him with his Corps stable belt – a very proud moment for them both.

WO2 Leach commented:“It’s fantastic to have my son following in my footsteps.”

8 A proud moment for the Leach family

Congratulations to Pte Leach and all of the junior soldiers who Passed Out of Harrogate, the Corps wishes you every success in your Army careers.

Remembering LCpl Davey Timmins QGM

Following the generous and humbling gift of the medals of the late LCpl Davey Timmins QGM to the Corps in 2021, The RLC presented his parents, Cathy and Stephen Timmins, with a replica medal and citation at a ceremony in Glasgow on 10 February 2022.

The presentation was made by on behalf of the Corps by Colonel Commandant, Brigadier Chris Murray CBE and was hosted by 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC at 221 Squadron’s ARC in Glasgow. Also present were representatives from 11 EOD & Search Regiment RLC, Glasgow and Lanarkshire ACF and 51 Brigade.

Davey Timmins QGM was a member of Glasgow and Lanarkshire ACF prior to joining the regular Army and in his memory the Davey

8 Mr & Mrs Timmins with the Memorial Trophy

Timmins QGM Memorial Trophy was commissioned by the RLC Association and presented by Brigadier Murray to the Commandant of Glasgow and Lanarkshire ACF Colonel Derek Coulter at the event.

A connection has been made between LCpl Timmins’ former regiment ,11 EOD&S Regt, and the ACF Battalion to ensure someone from 11 Regt is present annually when the trophy is presented to the top Army Cadet.

221 Sqn RLC provides regular support to its local Glasgow and Lanarkshire ACF Detachment and Colonel Coulter has agreed that he would set in motion the process to rebadge the detachment to The Royal Logistic Corps.

How it’s made: the Platinum Jubilee Medal The RLC Media Team recently visited the Worcestershire Medals Service Ltd, the company which has been tasked with the production of the Platinum Jubilee Medal.

Acting as a token of the Nation’s thanks and following the long-standing tradition of awarding medals to mark Royal Jubilees, the medals are being presented to Armed Forces personnel who have completed five full calendar years of service to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee later this year.

The company holds the current medal contract with the MOD and is now responsible for creating over 400,000 Platinum Jubilee medals – the largest project the company has had in 10 years.

The team were fortunate enough to meet the company’s Master Director and designer of the medal, Phil McDermott, who took them through the process of how the medals are made; a lot of which he completes himself by hand.

SO1 Communications, Lt Col Sheryl Stonehouse remarked: “It was fascinating to see how our medals are being produced by this outstanding British company and the contributions being made by many long-serving, dedicated employees in order to help us celebrate this great achievement of our Monarch.”

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7

THE SUSTAINER | RLC SPORTS AWARDS

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The RLC Corps Open Day returns in 2022 On 2 July 2022, following a 24-month hiatus thanks to COVID-19, The RLC Corps Open Day will return to Duke of Gloucester Barracks, South Cerney (nr Cirencester).

Hosted by 29 Regiment RLC, the day is intended to be a day out for the Corps and a celebration of The RLC. To this end the organisers are keeping uniformed ‘on duty’ participation to a minimum. The event is open to all serving Officers and Soldiers (Regular and Reserve), RLC and Forming Corps veterans; as well as families, friends and the local population.

The event will open at 1200hrs

8

with a festival of sport including a park run, a variety of unit level sporting competitions and it will see the return of the popular Tug of War competition.

Military stands will be reduced compared with previous years and will be capability led, showcasing a selection of The RLC’s diverse career employment groups and The RLC’s specialist units to inform those serving in the Corps and members of the visiting public and veterans. There will also be civilian run trade, food and refreshments stalls.

Two Corps run messes will be on site at the 2022 event, one for

Officers, WOs and Sgts and an OR’s bar (Cpls and Ptes).

There will be traditional arena displays including the ever popular RLC Enduro team, RLC Equestrian display team, a Joint Helicopter Support Squadron Chinook display, a display by The RLC’s Silver Stars parachute display team and a military marching band display featuring The RLC Corps of Drums.

The day will be rounded off with a ‘Party in the Park’, which will have a later start than in recent years.

More information will be published on The RLC Facebook page and on the RLC Association website once available.

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CONVENTION | THE SUSTAINER

WO1 Convention

By The RLC Corps Sergeant Major, WO1 Chris Sutherland

In early February The Royal Logistic Corps’ Warrant Officer Class One Cohort came together for the first time in two years for the WO1’s Convention. The event was hosted by 29 Regiment RLC in South Cerney. After the turbulence of the pandemic, I felt the need to reset the convention, focussing on our biggest asset…Our People.

The theme of the convention was ‘Understanding our people, Communication, and instilling Corps ethos.’

Over 100 WO1s and selected WO1s attended the two-day event, which was social, educational and informative. The aim of the convention was to educate, inform and provide awareness to the senior soldier

cohort of the Royal Logistic Corps; preparing them with the tools to understand and deal with current and future issues that affect the Corps and more importantly the people that serve within the Corps.

The presentations were delivered by Officers and Soldiers from inside and outside the Corps, all of whom delivered their subject expertly and in keeping with the theme. The convention culminated in a superbly supported Corps Dinner Night, during which the Master General of Logistics, Major General Simon Hutchings OBE spoke about the direction in which he is taking the Corps.

A huge thank you must go to the team at 29 Regiment, lead by WO2 (SSM) Kalem Hicks. Without Team 29 the convention would not have been delivered and supported in the professional manner it was.

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THE SUSTAINER | FUTURE SOLDIER The British Army is changing the way it operates. The Integrated Review has set the British Army on a course for the most radical transformation in two decades.

Known as ‘Future Soldier’ it will become a modern Army that is more agile, more integrated and more expeditionary - ready for the next challenge, not the last.

This involves thinking differently about emerging threats, how it deals with them and the skills, capabilities and equipment that the Army needs.

For The RLC, the outcome of Future Soldier is positive. To shape the Corps’ Form and Function, it presented sound logic to maintain the Regimental structures; a vital enabler to the way it envisages operating and fighting in an era of constant competition. The Corps secured agreement to reverse the plan to create standing Combat Service Support Battalions; a proposal that would have reduced the Corps’ span of command, as well as impacting on the lived experience of our people. Going forward, The RLC retains functional expertise in its structure (at the right level and in the right numbers). Command opportunities remain extant, offering exciting prospects for all to enhance their relevance and utility to the Army, Defence and the Nation.

Close Support 13 AA Sp Regt remains in support of 16 AA BCT in Colchester and Brize Norton and will increase by a sub unit commensurate with the increased output of 16 AA BCT. 60 CS Sqn QOGLR will re-subordinate from 4 Regt in Abingdon to form 15 AA Sp Sqn and relocate to Colchester. 3 (UK) Div restructures to 2 Armd BCTs. The resulting reduced requirement for logistic support will result in the disbandment of 3 Regt in 2023. Its CS & GS Sp sub unit titles will be retained in other RLC units. 4 Regt will remain in support of 12 Armd BCT and remain in Abingdon until the station closes in 2029. 4 Regt will then re-locate to Catterick. 60 CS Sqn will be re-instated in 4 Regt as an UKTAP sub unit. 1 Regt remains extant and will resubordinate to support 20 Armd BCT. 6 Regt will re-organise as a 10

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Future Soldier – What does it mean for The RLC?

light CS unit in support of 7 Lt Mech BCT. SP within 6 Regt will form the majority of a re-styled 32 Sqn. The RLC Reserve will provide close logistic support to 1 Deep Recce Strike BCT. Divisional Support 101 and 102 Op Sust Bdes will provide Div level support. The RLC will have three Div Sp Regts. 10 QOGLR and 27 Regt RLC will support the 3rd (UK) Division via 101 Bde. 7 Regt will support 1 (UK) Div via 102 Bde. The large F&GT Sqns in Div Sp Regts will each be reorganised into two squadrons, creating a new sub-unit in each regiment. This will improve the span of command. 17 F&GT Sqn will be reinstated in 7 Regt; 7 F&GT Squadron will be reinstated in 27 Regt. 31 F&GT Sqn QOGLR will be reinstated in 10 QOGLR. 66 F&GT Sqn in 9 Regt will reorganise to form a standalone fuel sqn and its general transport troops will form 21 Tpt Sqn. The RLC Reserve will provide close logistic support to 4 Light BCT. Theatre Sustainment 104 Th Sust Bde will continue to provide specialist theatre enabling capabilities to Defence, Allies and Partner Nations. The increased demand for this capability from

NATO has created opportunity for the Brigade to resubordinate to the ARRC, with the UK retaining national primacy. The range and scale of capabilities commanded by the Bde remain unchanged, although Future Soldier will see more SP deployed, more of the time. Therefore, demand for movement control will grow. 29 Regt will form an additional troop of Mov Cons and every BCT will have Mov Cons on its staff. 29 Regt will also re-organise into three Mov Con Sqns and a P&C Sqn. The demand for post office functions to support exercises and operations has decreased. Consequently, there will be a reduction in the number of P&C Ops across the Corps, with the trade remaining focussed on courier services. 29 Regt will reduce from five P&C Tps to three Tps within a retitled 80 PC Sqn. 99 PC & Mov Sqn will be removed from the 29 Regt ORBAT. Army Reserve The Future Soldier structures will demand more of our Army Reserve units in a warfighting scenario.

Regular Regimental structures will show their warfighting Army Reserve component, allowing reserve posts to be mapped to a deployed demand. In addition to the current demand for individual

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FUTURE SOLDIER | THE SUSTAINER

augmentees and formed groups of squadron and smaller size, the Army will require The RLC Reserve to deploy formed units. By 2025 the Army Reserve is expected to lead on National resilience tasks, subject to future planning work.

Overall, the RLC Reserve will close two squadrons, receive an additional squadron from another cap badge and re-role one squadron. The number of units will remain the same and there will be one less squadron. The total workforce requirement in RLC units is expected to be around 4,704.

Less where a location is closing there will be no requirement for any trained reservist to change their normal Army Reserve Centre.

The Army Reserve cannot generate everything so, for the first time, the Army must articulate what it requires from its Strategic Reserve. These posts will be shown in Army Reserve unit structures. This change allows the Army Reserves training margin to be brought within the total workforce requirement of 30,100.

Basing Future Soldier is supported by a revised Basing Plan. For The RLC there will be a small number of unit moves from 2023 to the end of the decade, driven in the main by the closure of Dalton Barracks, Abingdon. In advance of its final move to a refurbished barracks at Leuchars in Scotland, 7 Regt will move from Kendrew Barracks, Cottesmore to Dalton Barracks Abingdon in 2023. 4 Regt will also move to a new barracks in Catterick. 9 Regt will remain in Buckley Barracks, Hullavington. By 2030 the Corps will have an increased footprint in Northern England and Scotland providing a better balance for our people.

Conclusion Unit level structures have been designed in detail and are ready for implementation.

Implementation orders will follow directing the re-subordination and

reorganisation of units. Where the number of posts within a rank and trade at a unit is reducing APC will commence the process to reduce the number of personnel who receive early assignments. The future Corps structure provides it with an optimised force design providing a licence to continue to operate as a World-Class, Innovative and Adaptable

organisation. It further strengthens the Corps to ensure it is fit for the demands of the future operating environment. As Future Soldier moves from design to implementation, please support the subtle changes to The RLC’s structure and laydown and continue to look after those who make our Corps so valuable to the Army, Defence and the Nation.

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11

THE SUSTAINER | CAREER MANAGEMENT

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YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL Career management team

RLC SOLDIERS SO1: Lt Col Bratcher SO2: Maj McHugh SO3: Capt Jack WO1: WO1 Neilson QOGLR: SSgt Subba In my first Sustainer update I warned that future Career Management would require more input from you as individuals.

The developments in CM Digitisation are starting to allow this to happen. Your access to personal JPA information through the My Career App and Defence Connect is the start of this and is available now.

This allows you to check that the JPA data stored about you is correct and up to date. Whilst many of the next set of functions such as digital PPP and Job Specs are still being developed, you can see the level of interaction that will be possible and needed. You need to stay engaged as updates are published and to help we will keep you updated through your CoC and RCMO, the Sustainer and the RLC DOWNREP. Unit visits are starting again with the first round in April and a second week in June already booked. The rest of the article below details the importance of your PPP and how to complete it; do not underestimate the PPP, this is your chance to inform the board your preferences and why you are suitable for those jobs. You must also be aware that the needs of the Army must come first, so being realistic in your aspiration is key. If in doubt ask,

your CoC, RCMO or HoT are all there to help you. I look forward to engaging with you all as APC RLC Soldiers undertake this year’s Unit visits.

Direct Notification - UPDATE The use of Defence Connect to inform all Service Personnel (SP) of boarding results is proving to be a valuable tool in the process of ensuring that promotion results go to SP in a controlled manner. The days of What’s App/rumours/miss information etc. have hopefully now begun to disappear. Direct Notification will still take place on the Wednesday from 09:00hrs to 15:00hrs, however policy has been updated as per ABN119/2021 Change to Promulgation of Board Results. The key point to note is that the release of information to the Chain of Command and public notification has changed to Wednesday at 15:30 on the day of release. This will allow the CoC to remain fully informed of the information relevant to their SP on the same day results are released.

Again as a reminder if you have not done so please ensure that you and your people are digitally ready to receive notifications through Defence Connect 20210317_ Defence_Connect_User_Guide.pptx (sharepoint.com). SP not setting up their own Defence Connect correctly is the main reason Direct Notification fails.

The RLC Soldiers E1 appointment process and the importance of the Posting Preference Performa (PPP)

Calendar of Events: Key Dates

Event

Action

30 Mar 22

Sgt – SSgt board results

Direct Notification 0900-1500 hrs

31 Mar 22

Sgts SJARs to APC by

No action

31 Mar 22

LCpl SJAR due

LCpls, have you had your SJAR

31 May 22

Pte SJAR due

Pte, have you had your SJAR

01 Jun 22

Cpl – Sgts board results

Direct Notification 0900-1500 hrs

01 Jun 22

LCpl SJAR to APC

No action

27 Jul 22

LCpl – Cpl board results

Direct Notification 0900-1500 hrs

01 Aug 22

Pte SJAR to APC

No action

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RLC Soldiers has now completed the first iteration of E1 Sldrs appointments, this involved newly selected WO2-WO1 and all substantive WO1s eligible for appointing (assigning) in Promotion Year(PY) 22/23. This information is aimed at all RLC soldiers in order to inform you that as we move through PY 22/23 there are going to be changes. It is vital that all SP understand the way in which they are selected for an Appointment (Job/Posting) has been subject to a fundamental reform and update.

Appointing is the term that will now be associated with all postings, it involves all SP that are due to be assigned (posted) being considered at the appropriate Appointments Board. In short if you are due to move in the PY, you will be added to Runners List for the Appt Bd. For ease and to give you all a basic understanding we will use the Cpl Sgt process: Cpl - Sgt Promotion Results • 1 Jun 22: Direct Notification Wed 09:00-15:00hrs • 1 Jun 22: Chain of Command and Public Notification via MS Web 15:30hrs • 2 Jun 22: Jobs/Vacancy list released by CM • 10 Jun 22: All Sgt (selected/ substantive within PY 22/23) PPP’s to APC • 20-24 Jun 22: Sgts Appointments Bd • 29 Jun 22: Results published MS Web (RLC Board Proceedings).

The above is just an example of what to expect and the timelines anticipated to be followed. Now let’s discuss the Appointing Board Process. IAW Annex G to CM Boarding Manual the E1 Soldiers Appointment Board, will be convened throughout the promotion year for all OR1-OR9. Selection, deselections, extensions and reductions in tenure will be considered. The task is to appoint all newly selected SP, all substantive SP due to move in the PY and to appoint in acting rank ahead of PY. The E1 Appointment Bd with be

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#BritishArmyLogistics composed of SO1/SO2 RLC Soldiers (Chairman), a representative from the Field Army and the appropriate desk Career Manager. For SSgt and above the board will first consider the appointment and the KSE-B required for the position. From the PPP process, a Runners List (RL) will be produced for each position. The Appt Bd will consider the following evidence: Job Specifications, Annual Reports, Career Profile Sheets and Posting Preference Performa (PPP).

The PPP is your opportunity to indicate your wishes and how you intend to shape your career. In

CAREER MANAGEMENT | THE SUSTAINER essence this is your job application.

Information on how to complete and enhance your PPP can be found in the completion notes 1 -13 and there is a very good presentation to assist you on the MS Web “APC Sldr PPP Webinar Presentation”.

The importance of a correctly structured and accurate PPP cannot be underestimated.

Another good practice is to have your PPP reviewed and endorsed by the CoC. Also please follow the guidance issued from your respective Career Manager when they ask for your PPP.

When writing your PPP there are some valuable guides that may assist you: • Be very clear what is important to you: career vs locations and any family considerations • Research the post: speak with current incumbent and ensure that you have the KSE-B’s for the job • Would Love, Wouldn’t Mind and Non-Volunteer: correct use of these phrases is vital, and • Ensure you match each job youhave chosen and build the Competence/Supporting Comments box to match.

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

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC ROLES MAB (CHEFS) Have you ever wondered what it is like to work as a Chef in support of a UK Specialist Military Unit?

Currently, there are over 60 RLC Chefs, both regular and reserve, providing daily catering support to specialist military units in the UK firm base and deployed. The focus of activity is centred around a bespoke Garrison PAYD model which is planned, co-ordinated and delivered by RLC Chefs without the support of a Contracted Delivery Partner which exemplifies the Chef Ethos. In particular the necessity is to be: ‘agile in thought and skill’, ‘ensuring mission defining deadlines are met’ and that we: ‘adapt to our environment and remain focused on service delivery’.

This further complements the ethos and values of the organisation we support regarding humour, humility, self-discipline and operating within a classless society. It is these values that really define serving with specialist military units and see our people empowered, valued and respected at all levels.

Feeding the UK’s Specialist Military Units Within the specialist military group there are six Catering Departments of RLC Chefs, ranging from Class 3 Pte’s to the WO1 (Gp Catering WO). The work is demanding and rewarding in equal measure, so look no further if you wish to feed your ambitions. You could find yourself as a newly promoted LCpl provisioning and planning for an exercise or operations within the UK or overseas, deploying with, and managing your own team.

Notably, you are afforded significant freedom of movement and can truly release your full potential and culinary flair.

Reporting directly to a ‘badged’ SQMS & SSM at such a junior level is only the beginning of your empowerment journey, as when approached they will not tell you how to do it, but rather ask you, as a young and upcoming JNCO ‘’What do you need from us to achieve your plan?’’. Although this might sound daunting to some, the level of exposure, experience and

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UK Specialist Military Units – the Chef CEG

knowledge you will gain will be second to none, with potential to progress at a much faster rate than your peers.

A look at life – RLC Chef JNCO Having applied and been selected for employment in a Specialist Military Unit, I recall thinking that would be an opportunity to go work alongside the best in world and was delighted to be given the opportunity. What a chance to demonstrate what I had been trained to do in a unique environment.

As a private soldier there was a lot of responsibility on me - I was expected to organise functions, themed nights and wives’ nights with minimal oversight while continuing to carry out my normal duties as a British Army Chef. There were a lot of meetings and conferences which required precise planning and organising to ensure they ran smoothly. Working lunches were a frequent occurrence with a high standard being maintained throughout. In addition to these tasks we had to provision for rations which is a time consuming job ensuring all food safety processes were carried out from

the ordering, cost, delivery, stock rotation to delivering constantly which always has its pressures.

Working at this particular unit it is normal to work at least one rank up if not two ranks at times – you rarely get this opportunity elsewhere and It is a truly unique.

There are a lot of skilled people working alongside you to advise and assist you. You must have that personal pride with the food you produce. All ranks will come through the hotplate ranging from top rank officers to private soldiers and there should be no change in standard.

Moving to a different unit within the group on promotion I was again in the thick of it. Exercises and real time events were happening which we had to react and adapt to very quickly. It his hard work but personally I think there is no better post in the Army! You constantly need to be thinking on your feet and adapting to all scenarios. You will put in situations that no other person at your level will be exposed to within any other organisation.

This will set you up for the rest of your career as you will learn skills that you can have for rest of your life and become more employable.

Overall, my time here has been very unique and challenging but extremely rewarding. An assignment to specialist military units should not be taken lightly and isn’t for everyone as you will constantly work under pressurised situations, which you will have to adapt to quickly due to the operational impact.

Learn more If you are a JNCO wishing to apply your trade within the UK’s Specialist Military Units, speak to your RCWO. All you need to be is fully deployable, physically robust and willing to work hard.

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#BritishArmyLogistics Where support helicopters are deployed, it is highly likely they will be accompanied by a Mobile Air Operations Team (MAOT) from the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS). RLC Drivers and Driver Communication Specialists form a large part of a MAOT meaning the JHSS contains a large representation from the Corps. The Sqn deploys around the world often working at the sharp end; requiring a high level of basic soldiering skills.

Ex FALCONS AMARANTEFrance. By Pte Wiltshire RLC. The road move to Septfonds in Southern France took three days.

There had been a lot of rain and flooded ground added complication for the MAOT, as it rehearsed how to place vehicles into nets for underslung loading beneath a Chinook. This is the preferred method to move French vehicles and cargo on Op NEWCOMBE. Over the next week, the team netted a variety of vehicles, some of which were close to being too big for the net. This helped us understand the technicalities of netting abnormal loads so they can fly correctly. Once the training was complete the team was netting vehicles by day and night to support French Infantry units.

The culmination of the JHSS involvement was when in a four-hour period, the team netted and moved seven French All-Terrain Vehicles. We had 20 minutes between hooking one load and having the next two ready for the incoming aircraft. The exercise benefited the team as it replicated some scenarios and time restraints we will face whilst deployed in Mali.

Ex INUA ASKARI/ Ex ASKARI STORM – Kenya.

By LCpl Siddons RLC. JHSS deployed a MAOT to BATUK in Sept 21, to support Ex INUA ASKARI 21. The exercise saw a deployment of three Puma Helicopters for environmental training (ET); as well as, Aviation support to the Battle Group (BG) deployed on Ex ASKARI STORM 21.

After a RSOI package, the first task was to support the Puma Force ET. This included deploying to areas within the Kenyan Plains to set up

EXERCISE | THE SUSTAINER

JHSS Exercises

HLS markers at night. A challenge in difficult conditions coupled with the threat from the many dangerous wild animals. Luckily, with only one close call with a pack of Hyenas, Puma night training was successfully completed.

During Ex ASKARI STORM 21 the MAOT was mostly tasked to support the BG with movement of equipment and personnel. One task of note was to move two Coys complete with CEMO, quads and trailers. Further taskings included the movement of vehicles, fuel, water and rations. The final task was to enable the aircrew to practice landings in heavy dust, to return the exercising troops Quads and Trailers. Unfortunately for the MAOT, this meant being engulfed in dust and low visibility of the ‘hook’, but it prevailed.

Exercise HOOKER’S SWORD 21.

By Master Aircrew Attridge RAF In Dec 21, the Sqn deployed to Caerwent Training Area to test and revalidate basic soldiering skills.

Preparation of Tactical Engagement Simulation (TES) kit was followed by the platoon, consisting of RLC, AAC and RAF personnel, settling into their routine in the Forward Operating Base (FOB).

8 A Comms Spec on Ex HOOKER'S SWORD

Night routine was established just in time for enemy forces to test ‘stand to’ reactions and allow the Comms Specs to send sighting and contact reports through to the Ops Room. First light saw patrols being sent out to recce suitable areas to locate HLS’s in known enemy areas. Section Battle Drills were tested before the HLSs were prepared and marked.

The platoon moved from the FOB to set up a harbour location.

Training stands throughout the next day included Counter IED drills and Basic Combat First Aid. The culmination of the week was a Platoon Attack. With supporting GPMG overhead fire, the sections took and held enemy positions before carrying out a Casevac back to the FRV.

8 A French ATV netted and ready

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15

THE SUSTAINER | BELIZE EXPERIENCE

By Capt Hannah Kirkham Stepping off the plane to be greeted by a wall of humidity, sunshine and blue skies, I couldn’t help beaming with delight and excitement. I was about to spend the next six months as the first female and first non-infantry Operations Officer (OpsO) at the British Army Training Support Unit Belize (BATSUB). Understandably my excitement was tinged with a little nervousness.

Belize, also known as “The Caribbean Jewel”, is the only English-speaking country in Central America and with a British colonial heritage maintains strong ties with the UK. Steeped in Mayan history and rich in biodiversity, it has a lot to offer. From pine wood forests in the highlands and dramatic waterfalls, to the tropical jungle and the mangroves on the coast, Belize is home to an amazing array of wildlife. The humidity typically sits at 90% and temperatures are consistently above 30°C. Within 10 minutes your shirt has sweat patches and you long for a cool breeze. Lying on a drug smuggling travel corridor to Mexico in the North, poverty and crime are well known partners. Yet at the same time Belize is one of those tropical countries that has seen investment and development with luxury resorts, casinos and an influx of tourism. When crime and corruption are rife, the contrast of wealth and deprivation can be stark.

BATSUB has small unit status and is the descendent of what once was British Forces Belize (BRITFORBEL). A garrison sized force, it was active from 1981 (when Belize gained independence) up until 1994, when Guatemala accepted Belize was a sovereign nation and not as previously claimed, a part of Guatemala. Since then there has been a reduced British Forces presence under BATSUB. Located in Price Barracks, the unit has only 17 permanent and 21 temporary staff and sits at the end of a 5,000-mile trans-Atlantic supply chain. Its main mission is to facilitate expeditionary training for Light Role infantry forces in the jungle. At the same time, infrastructure development, 16

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Smashing glass ceilings in Belize

disaster response planning and defence engagement activity keeps BATSUB busy.

My first impression of the OpsO job was that it was a busy role.

With a backlog of exercises that could not run due to COVID-19, I arrived when the gates opened allowing troops to train in the

8 BDF Officer Cadets conducting a CASEVAC after a platoon attack

8 Visit to BATSUB, Price Barracks,

by Commander Field Army Lt Gen R Wooddisse CBE MC

Belizean jungle once again.

BATSUB was also embarking on its transition into a Land Regional Hub. As the point of contact for visiting units and controlling the forecast of events, I authorised or denied exercises. I was also heavily involved in routine unit business that kept the cogs turning. I did not want to let myself, my cap badge, or BATSUB down. Through hard work and opening up new lines of communication, I kept my finger was on the pulse at all times.

Co-located on Price Barracks is the Belizean Defence Force (BDF). It has a close relationship with BATSUB. There is no doubt the BDF is overstretched but through short term team training facilitated by BATSUB, the BDF’s capability is developed and strengthened.

Some training event highlights The Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst (RMAS) ran a commissioning course based

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#BritishArmyLogistics around jungle training to produce versatile leaders in the BDF. Concurrent to this, the percussion and brass music ringing around camp was a good indication that the band of the Grenadier Guards were teaching BDF musicians the more technical aspects of military music. To strengthen resilience, 24 Commando Regiment RE mentored the BDF to be better prepared for the next natural disaster. We also welcomed high profile visits including the Governor-General of Belize, Her Excellency Froyla Tzalam; the Commandant RMAS, Maj Gen Duncan Capps CBE and Commander Field Army, Lt Gen Ralph Woodisse CBE MC. One of the main pleasures of the job was working with a great variety of people from different backgrounds. I never quite knew who was going to walk into my office on a daily basis. As well as Belizeans, I found myself working with Americans, Jamaicans, Canadians and Norwegians, along with Special Forces elements.

It was fun comparing military norms, whilst understanding and acknowledging different work cultures.

Some activities required co-ordination with a different set of partners. These included The British High Commission, the (Belize) National Emergency & Management Organisation, The US High Commission, the Defence Attaché based out of Jamaica and Astrum Helicopters who provide BATSUB with its air and medevac capability, which is critical. Because of the requirement to conduct regular recces, I often found myself above the tree line in the Bell Helicopter, on visits to interact with the troops on the ground. To see the tangible output of a vast amount of planning was rewarding.

Keen to get more exposure to the operating environment, I was able to link up with the BDF boat service. Transiting the Belize river in their Recon Craft allowed me to see the huge array of wildlife on either side of the riverbanks, which was fascinating. Additionally, a Staff Exercise was held, which included a survival day, command tasks and

BELIZE EXPERIENCE | THE SUSTAINER

8 Presenting to the BDF females on an empowerment day

8 Waterfall rappelling in Bocawina, South Belize

lessons. It was hard to ignore the howls of the Howler Monkeys and the buzzing, chirping and hissing of jungle creatures at night. The hammocks ensured we slept above the ground and as for the rest of the kit, we hung it or tied it up high, so you didn’t wake up and find a nice surprise in your kit…or shoe!

In my downtime there were visits to the old Mayan temples, which revealed the sophistication of this ancient civilization. Scuba diving off the tropical islands of Caye Caulker and San Pedro showed the rich colours above ground were more than matched below. Ziplining and waterfall rappelling offered an adrenaline buzz and fishing boat trips off the glorious beaches of Hopkins and Placencia provided fresh catch dinners, which were simply the best. It was nice knowing all this was available at the end of a busy week.

My experience over the six

months was enhanced by a great team around me. Overcoming challenges and tests that are unique to Belize made it even more rewarding.

I enjoyed working with numerous nationalities and military organisations. A willingness to listen, learn and accept other ideas and opinions went a long way in making this a successful and very enjoyable tour. This also paid dividends to connect with a beautiful country of different cultural norms and a laid-back Caribbean spirit. If I said I wasn’t going to go back to Belize...then I’d be lying!

8 Standing shoulder to shoulder with Belizean & Jamaican Defence Force Colleagues

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS

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Defence School of Logistics and Administration Commandant Gp Capt L Griffin RAF The School was delighted to learn that eight of its current members of staff were deservedly recognised for their outstanding accomplishments in the New Year’s Honours List 2022. Of the recipients, WO1 Neil Hodgson, Logistics Supply Training Wing, was recognised for his work in revolutionising the delivery of Defence Movements training in support of the Army’s Operational deployment capability; just one example of the excellent work that is being delivered across the entirety of the DSLA.

8 Osprey: Positivity – Purpose – Passion – Promise

8 WO1 Neil Hodgson during the LSTW Innovation Day last year

As the School reaches its first anniversary in April 2022, the DSLA will be marking the occasion with a new award, ‘Instructor of the Year’.The award will recognise an instructor whose work goes above and beyond the classroom; they will be an inspirational instructor who has made a significant and positive impact upon the learning experience of trainees.We are looking forward to presenting the award at the School’s inaugural Dinner Night in May 2022.This will become an annual award, coinciding with the completion of each training year.

January has seen the introduction of a new framework at Worthy Down, to manage holdovers.‘Osprey’ was formed on 4 Jan 22 and offers positivity, purpose, passion and promise to trainees who are spending time out of the formal training programme.The stand-up of Osprey is an important milestone for the DSLA, as it affirms the commitment of the School to investing in the professional and personal development of our trainees.The knowledge, skills and experiences that trainees will gain during their time with

8 Opening ceremony of the Lekali Chulo Messing Facility

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Osprey will help them to excel in their future careers and build life skills that will benefit trainees for years ahead.

More broadly,Worthy Down Station was delighted to see the opening of the Lekali Chulo Messing Facility on 8 Dec 21, thanks to the AGC HQ for leading the development of this great facility supporting our Nepalese community and the Whole Force at Worthy Down. Great activity is taking place across the School and it is fantastic to see staff exploiting the opportunity to engage in AT, representative sport and battlefield studies once again!

Command Wing – Chief Instructor Lt Col Andy Moss OBE RLC Command Wing keeps delivering a busy schedule of courses whilst concurrently striving to maintain highly relevant content and innovative teaching.This period has

8 Commandant DSLA observes Field Logistics Division 3 training the Majors’ Course

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#BritishArmyLogistics been no different, with initiatives enacted across Defence to engage and deliver optimum training to counter emerging threats and meet the contemporary training requirements.

Field Logistics Division 3 continues to deliver the two-week RLC Majors’ course, enhancing the ability of newly promoted RLC majors to support divisional warfighting through the use of discrete divisional tactical actions. Students on the most recent course took to this extremely well and the useful experiences of those with formation headquarters logistic planning experience contributed enormously - there was certainly stimulating discussion amongst students that contributed to effective group learning. 20 more RLC majors are now better prepared for the demands of their initial SO2 appointments.

Core outputs continue at pace for the team in Field Logistics Division 2 with the delivery of the RLC Captains’ Course and the Defence Logistic Contract Management Course (DLCMC). The DLCMC continues to provide vital contract management training to Defence and, under the supervision and watchful eye of Capt ‘Archie’ Archer, has returned to face-to-face delivery - the benefits of which have been felt immediately.

Field Logistics Division 1 continues to improve content whist running a 28-strong RLC Troop Commanders’ Course (TCC), successfully strengthening ties with the Defence School of Transport in Leconfield to deliver a tailored package that fits well with the overall course.TCC Lesson content is continually being reviewed and considerations are being made to accommodate expected future training

TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER

8 The Majors course delivering the results of their deep logistic planning

8 The RLCMC practiced briefing using models

8 The RLC Troop Commanders’ Course trains on convoy drills and the associated tactics, techniques and procedures required for successful road moves

requirements. An example of this is engagement with units operating unmanned aerial systems to develop tactics, techniques and procedures in response to this additional threat in the battlespace.

In the background to this training, Command Wing has been liaising with other cap badges to explore mutually beneficial training opportunities and develop best practice, hosting REME trainers at Worthy Down to examine future possibilities.

Life continues at pace too in 85 (Herring VC) Sqn with the usual drumbeat of Cpls and Sgts ALDP courses being delivered from Worthy Down and Longmoor. It has been pleasing to see attendance from non-RLC students increasing on our courses, particularly from our Royal Gurkha Rifles and Royal Artillery colleagues.This mix has certainly led to new networks being formed at the JNCO level, which should lead to better training opportunities at regimental level.

In addition to their day jobs, members of 85 Sqn have completed numerous exciting development opportunities including attendance on the Section Commanders Battle Course, an NLAW live firing package (kindly facilitated by 4 Regt RLC) and training support to the Winchester College Cadet Force.

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS Looking ahead, the Fd Log 2 team is preparing for the return of the International Logistic Officer Course (ILOC) to the curriculum.The team will deliver the ILOC on behalf of Defence once more in July. Further details and an update will feature in future editions of the Sustainer.

2022 looks bright for 85 Sqn having been selected as the Sqn of choice to run distributed ALDP packages to all Army units stationed outside the UK.The first is a much anticipated bespoke JNCO/SNCO package to members of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment in June this year.

Also coming up after a two-year COVID-19 enforced hiatus, Command Wing will be visiting its French equivalent military logistic training establishment (les ecoles militaires de Bourges) in February, with a view to re-energise the long-standing partnership and establish mutually beneficial training opportunities.

The Wing bids farewell to Majors Tim Isherwood and Liz Polson, who depart on deserved promotion to ICSC. Also departing is Capt Andy Griffiths. All are warmly thanked for their commitment and dedication during their tenure.

Major Hiroshi Theodorakakis is hugely congratulated for his well-deserved selection for promotion to Lt Col, due in part to his sterling work within Command Wing and his significant contribution to the RLC Strategy; and congratulations also go to Capt Matt Coleman for being selected for promotion to Major, Maj Janet Johnson on her promotion to Lt Col and SSgt Jallow for his promotion to WO2.

Huge thanks from Command Wing to the credible external presenters who have engaged so constructively with the courses we deliver. These supporting interactions are an enormous help towards ensuring the success of the next cohort of RLC leaders.

Logistic Specialist Training Wing CO Wg Cdr Samantha Alexander RAF Returning from a well-deserved Christmas leave period, Defence Petroleum and Specialist Training School (DPSTS) immediately turned its focus to supporting the increase in training required for Petroleum Operators, following the release of the Future Soldier directive. RLC instructors are now working hard to generate additional resources, equipment, SET bids, fuel and training areas ready for the additional personnel arriving at DCLPA. Simultaneously DPSTS personnel have also been working alongside their Royal Engineer partners, building a Joint Operational Fuel System (JOFS) dry training bund at Worthy Down.The construction of this will provide real training benefit to the RE plant operator students, as well as the RLC Petroleum Operators who can utilise the bund in future DPSTS fuel training serials - this has all been completed whilst demonstrating incredible value for money.

Hard work has continued across the Wing, but 73 Squadron and Defence Movements Training Squadron (DMTS) did manage to get away on a relaxing team cohesion day before Christmas.The visit included military and civilian staff who went for the day to the famous Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds. Sadly, Mr Jeremy Clarkson was not present to sign the 73 Sqn Diddly Squat book.

However some of the staff did manage to make sizeable donations in the form of a bumper Christmas shopping spree in the farm shop.The remainder of the team took to tasting the scrumptious sausage rolls and coffee being offered by the Farm’s Snack Shack. Everyone managed to 20

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8 Members of 73 Sqn with the Grand Tour Bolivia episode Jeep Wrangler

sign the barn wall and get a photo by both the Grand Tour Bolivia episode Jeep Wrangler and Diddly Squat Farm sign.

This was followed by a visit to the to the Hook Norton Brewery, famous for supplying Blenheim Palace with beer and ale.The team had a bespoke brewery tour and even got to feed the horses (the brewery is only one of three breweries in the UK that still deliver by horse and cart) before visiting the Rollright Stones in Chipping Norton – nearby prehistoric megalithic monuments built from large natural boulders.The stones are naturally pitted, giving them extraordinary shapes - Cpl Northall was able to provide some very interesting explanations to this! The day was a great success and enjoyed by all, it was excellent to see the Sqn 73 team and DMTS sharing experiences and identifying many commonalities between them.

Supply Training Wing - Chief Instructor Lt Col Devendra Ale MVO MBE QOGLR The period running up to Christmas saw Supply Training Wing continue to deliver courses across all five Divisions to try and satisfy Defence’s needs.This has been challenging due to the pandemic and increased demands and best effort have always been maintained.

With the expanding requirement to utilise the reverse supply chain using ISO containers, there has been a growing need to train more personnel across all three services. An example of demand can be demonstrated with the Cargo Transport Unit (CTU) Supervisor’s course. Since October 2021 instructors from all three services have delivered in total 19 course instances with 277 tri-service personnel successfully trained.The bulk of the instances happened in Worthy Down; however one instance took place in Cyprus. Over a normal training year, STW is forecasted to deliver 42 courses, either as a standalone or embedded in a single Service or All Arms courses.

Supply Chain Division has been scoping the opportunities to exploit non-residential training with some successes and merits on some courses. However, the requirement for face-to-face learning, practical supply training and receiving a lived experience from the trainers was very much recognised and further financial investment would be needed to expand our non-residential portfolio.

The Wing entered a team into the Worthy Down 6A-side football competition. Unfortunately the team didn’t win but did gain plaudits for having an average age of 40+ (at the one stage the goalkeeper and two defenders had a combined age of c.150!) There were some sore legs later that week. A fabulous competition that brought some of

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TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER

the oldest together with the youngest from STW and the wider college.

Comdt DSLA, Gp Capt Griffin visited the Wing in Dec 21 and presented a 1-star Commendation to Cpl Davidson for his outstanding work in RAF Div and across the STW floor plate.This set the Wing up for Christmas leave and since the start of the year, RAF Div has delivered across its full portfolio to military and civil service trainees, including a combination of DLE and residential instruction to the civilians. An exciting development that should provide facility savings.The Engr Log Div welcomed a full course of Royal Engineer Log Specs, only to see numbers cut by positive COVID results.We are still in challenging times, but the Wing continues to remain flexible and responsive in order to train future logisticians.

Food Services Training Wing – CO Commander Gary Manning RN. Christmas catering at Crown Hill Community College - by Sgt Nico Chambers

8 Sgt Chambers with the Crown Hills Community catering team

During the 2021 Christmas period, I was approached by Crown Hills Community college in Leicester to assist in the catering of Christmas meals for 1,500 students, teachers and permanent staff. I have previously assisted the college during busy periods and provided cooking demonstrations for students.This year was far more challenging - the requirement was to feed all students and staff within one hour whilst having to adhere to strict COVID-19 regulations.

Due to the pandemic, the college opened various feeding locations allowing the students and staff to all have their lunch within the hour while still being socially distanced.The feeding areas included the playground - offering ‘grab and go’ food - whilst the main kitchen provided hot plated meals.

I am currently a chef instructor at the Food Service Training Wing and I have previous experience working on

8 The first of 300 Christmas dinners prepared by Sgt Chambers and the college chef

exercises and operations. A task like this allowed me to put into practice my skills and knowledge to assist the college to deliver their best Christmas dinner considering the required restrictions. I was able to ensure all students were catered for within the time frame and with the best possible quality of food provided. Having a military chef in the college gave the students an insight into military catering and the students enjoyed asking a multitude of questions about my day-to-day life in the Army.

The first task was to decide on how to organise the logistics of feeding all the students and staff.Working alongside staff at the college, we decided to give each year group a plated Christmas dinner option or the choice of a Christmas themed baguettes, wraps, sandwiches and cakes served at five different locations on campus.The preparation was a busy time. The morning was spent cooking and plating 300 Christmas dinners for each year and preparing the food for the next day. I focused solely on the cooking of the Christmas dinners with the Head Chef at the school.This included roast turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings.This then took the strain off the staff in the kitchen, allowing them to focus on break time meals and the rest of the feeding throughout the school.

Each day was a massive success, challenging but rewarding, with positive feedback from staff and students. For some students, this was the first time they had tasted turkey or eaten a traditional British Christmas dinner. Seeing the plates coming back empty and the smiles on all the faces meant to me the diners enjoyed the food and felt the Christmas spirit, making the job incredibly satisfying. Feeding so many students and staff at Crown Hill Community College is something I will endeavour to do again in the future.

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

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THE SUSTAINER | 16 AA BDE EX FALCON AMARANTE 21 Ex FALCON AMARANTE 21 (Ex FA21) was the French led A-CJEF FTX. Alongside 11e Brigade Parachutiste, it included troops from 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team (16 AA BCT), and for Ex FA 21 it was based around the 2 PARA BG. Ex FA 21 took place in Caylus Training Area in the vicinity of Toulouse, France in Oct/Nov 21.

During the initial exercise planning, 16 AA BCT was offered the opportunity to use French military rail cars to assist in the deployment of the Brigade’s vehicle fleet to the south of France.

Noting that many of our vehicles would have otherwise needed to be moved via low loaders, Maj Frost (SO2 Log Sp, 16 Bde HQ) and I assessed that there was a great training opportunity and a significant cost saving to be achieved. Our engagement with Rail SMEs in Army HQ was fruitful and the benefits to move via rail on Ex FALCONS AMARANTE was supported.

FRET SNCF is the French military rail provider. It moves the military rail cars, plans and executes French Military vehicle movements and is NATO approved. FRET SNCF has the luxury of an embedded French Mil Ops Team and they are well versed at working with all NATO partner militaries but particularly the US and France. Ideally, we would have liked to have moved the vehicles by rail from the UK, but during our research, we discovered that it was not financially viable.

We decided to move the vehicles Loading could not have been any simpler

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Waggons away!

16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team swaps the RAF’s C17s for French rail flats to move its vehicles on Ex FALCON AMARANTE 21 –

By WO1 David Keech, BCWO 16 AA BCT

by road to Calais and from there FRET SNCF was able to load and transport onward.

The total journey took 26 hours and covered some 1,700 kilometres. Stops were around 10 minutes to change over train drivers and there was no need for vehicle drivers to rest overnight as the train just carried on through the night while they slept. At the rail

8 In order to work at the rail head in Calais, all the soldiers had watched the mandated, but outdated “Lethal Weapon” rail safety video and had a very thorough brief by the Bde and Regional Command Movers

head near Toulouse, unloading was a simple process. From there, it was only a 45-minute drive to the exercise area.

The rail accommodation car was provided by French Military, free of

Within a few hours all vehicles had been safely loaded by our Drivers/Commanders

All vehicles were secured to the rail flats with the necessary paperwork and checks conducted by the contractor

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16 AA BDE EX FALCON AMARANTE 21 | THE SUSTAINER

8 Basic, but comfy accommodation

cost. It consisted of two second class carriages with 10 cabins that had six beds in each. The cabin had a comfortable bed, electric sockets, lighting and a heating system. The carriages also had a toilet and sinks at each end. Bottles of drinking water were issued as the water was fit for washing, but not for drinking.

I took time to speak to the soldiers to find out what their thoughts were as 16 AA BCT had not used this method of travel before. Feedback was very positive as the alternative was a four-day road move with three overnight stops. For those vehicles that did make the road trip, some drivers had broken down, had negative experiences at customs, issues with traffic or challenges getting through the French tolls.

Here are some soldiers’ thoughts on the experience: “Rail is something which must definitely be utilised in future deployments. It was straight-forward and quick once in operation.

Its use will reduce the strain on

8 Rail made the 1,700-mile journey easy.

Road took four days

vehicles prior to the start of exercises or operations.” – Lt Thomas (RLC).

“The process at the rail head was quick and worked efficiently due to good planning. We worked well with the civilian company, although there was a language barrier. The drivers were co-operative making the process as painless as possible.” - Cpl Bloomfield, (RLC).

“I thought that the railhead itself ran very smooth after we got the first few vehicles through.” Cfn Burns (REME).

Early on we could see the benefits of using rail. FRET SNCF was very efficient, understood our needs and provided an excellent service. Travelling on the train on the way down was a good way to see the project reach its fruition and

see the benefits. Movement by rail has proved itself and it will definitely be an option in the future.

It is highly unlikely that 16 AA BCT would deploy via rail upon activation for operations which are more likely to see the R1 and R2 vehicle fleets move via air in the first instance and subsequently by sea.

In the absence of such assets for routine exercises contracted rail moves can bridge the gap; saving time, money and degradation to the vehicle fleet and the drivers. 16 AA BCT will plan to take the lessons from this rail deployment onto Ex SWIFT RESPONSE 2022 where it is hoped that some vehicles will move via rail instead of road.

start of ex. Rail cabins with beds were provided for the Drivers & Commanders to rest.

• Increased speed of deployment as no need for drivers resting.

Train drivers change over only took 10 minutes and the train continued its planned journey.

• Vehicles were fully fit upon

arrival. Why run a Marathon before a Rugby match!

• The Train can be diverted at short notice if required to fill other commitments.

• SQEP revalidated and gained.

• Options to deploy across multiple countries for future exercises.

Summary of Benefits • Achieved Interoperability of Strategic and Operational Movement with other nations.

• Cost effective. Circa 50% less expensive than contracted haulage.

• Reduced carbon emission footprint.

• Soldiers arrived rested prior to

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS

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The Defence School of Transport The closing month of 2021 ended with a sustained push to deliver over and above expectations.

The Op ESCALIN surge finally drew to a close as new requests to deliver support to DVSA and the provision of driver training to Service Leavers came in.

Simultaneously, DST staff have task organised internally on a rolling basis to maximise prioritised outputs within ongoing resource pressures.

While teaching personnel from across Defence to the standard required to gain a civilian driving licence, and then teaching them how to operate a range of military vehicles on operations, remains the core of DSTs work; it does not capture a sense of some of the other activities which add to military capability and which are championed by the school.This article therefore takes a look at two areas which many people do not immediately associate with the Defence School of Transport; sport/physical development and the development of CSS CIS skills.Whilst the constant throughput of students and training staff commitments can frustrate attempts to build team performance over an entire season, DST staff continue to work hard to develop individual skills, which translate to sporting success.That same approach to helping individuals be the best that they can be, is also seen in the professionalism of the DST CIS Sqn instructors – ably demonstrated in their most recent achievements during the first Exercise SKYWAVE in 2022.

Exercise SKYWAVE On 20 January 2022, 17 units across Defence participated in Exercise SKYWAVE. The exercise, which is conducted by DST’s Communications Information Systems Squadron during the Regimental Signals Instructor (RSI) course, tests units’ abilities to establish long range communications via High Frequency (HF) means, across various distances, meaning frequency and radiation selection are key to success.

It is the role of the RSI course to plan, co-ordinate and execute the exercise.

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Commandant: Colonel Chris Henson QGM COS: Lt Col Ben Aumônier RLC GSM: WO1 J Girvan

8 Ex SKYWAVE tests units in establishing long-range communications

8 Comms with Estonia were possible on Ex SKYWAVE

This incorporates Path Profile Analysis to establish the best frequencies to use and produce all the relevant instructions for units to follow.

Impressively, every unit established HF communications with their Control Station. Locations included: Plymouth, Tidworth, Aldershot,Wattisham, Preston, Bicester,York and Cottersmore. Most impressively, OP CABRIT located in Estonia managed to communicate with a number of units over a distance of 1,700 Miles.

This highly successful exercise enabled both senior and junior members of the Driver Communications Specialist trade to test their knowledge and skills. CIS Sqn would like to thank all the units that participated and looks forward to the next Ex SKYWAVE taking place in July 2022.

Sporting achievements During the challenges that 2021 presented, sport across DST assumed

greater importance; it provided a focus for service personnel, allowing them to develop, both physically and mentally, through the platform that sport provides.Whilst large scale team events were hampered by COVID-19 restrictions, some sports still flourished.

The Golf society continued to grow from strength to strength with a healthy blend of serving, retired and association members.The golfing calendar is always packed with plenty of fixtures and events which sees the society visit some of the best courses across the North. In 2021 the society hosted 11 fixtures, with each event attracting 20-30 personnel. Plans for 2022 are well underway in what promises to be another great year out on the fairways; with the first event scheduled for Mar 22 at Driffield Golf Club. In the meantime, the society is investing in equipment and access to facilities to further promote the sport across DST. The Triathlon team headed up by Capt Hoggart RE and his team enjoyed an extremely successful 2021, claiming both individual and team success across varying disciplines, ranging from triathlon, duathlon and aquatic activities.The team is consistently one of the best supported, structured and promoted across DST and continues to deliver outstanding results year after year.

Moving forward in 2022, the team has

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#BritishArmyLogistics futureproofed itself by investing in coaching staff.The team has loaded various members onto Lv 1 coaching courses, which will enhance the training delivery and prepare for the departure of coaches who will be leaving DST throughout the year.The team is currently preparing for the 2022 season and will be entering all UK North series of events; covering all disciplines. Not content to rest on its laurels, the team continued to train at the Humber Triathlon club over the festive period.

Cross Country continues to be one of the largest and best supported sporting activities Army-wide. DST has a large selection of individuals to choose from to represent the Unit on the competitive racing circuit in UK North and in the Army championships.

In November 2021, DST hosted the UK North Championships. The event was held on the Beverley Westwood estate and attracted over 200 runners.

Not only was the event organised by DST’s gymnasium team, impeccably led by Cpl Tennant, but our junior teams also claimed first place in the team competition.

Orienteering, like Cross Country, has been an ever-present activity across

TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER

Defence; with the transferable skills required to participate, overlapping into the context of military life.The orienteers’ led by WO2 Lucas have been busy honing their skills, both on and off camp.The team has enabled its members to be released to attend various courses which will add huge value to the team in relation to training and hosting events. In 2022, the team will be hosting several events at DST, as well as preparing for its upcoming sports tour of Cyprus.

The Rugby team throughout 2021 has been heavily involved in the 7’s scene, reaching both the plate finals

8 DST focussed on Rugby 7s in 2021

8 DST hosted the UK North Cross Country Championships on the Beverley Westwood Estate

in the Midlands Trophy and the Williams Trophy, winning the later.

The squad continues to grow and with the difficulty of fielding 15 players plus substitutions, the team will be focussing on 10’s for 2022 with an aim of developing the club to participate in 15’s.

Looking ahead, there are several stand out events being planned by the DST Gymnasium staff. These will further promote, identify and enable service personnel to experience the benefits and effects sport can have on individuals and the ethos it can help develop throughout a unit.The team will be organising a UK North Sporting talent identification combine, which will be the first of its kind within the area.The event is aimed at promoting sport, identifying talent and enabling service personnel to take part in future sporting events.The event will expose soldiers to the physical demands of certain sports and will be used to highlight potential physical talent that can be developed, shaped and nurtured.This will act as a foot in the door for service personnel and aims to promote the sporting capability of the Armed Forces; demonstrate the effects sport has on the operational output of units, as well as providing a safe place to hone their skills on the sporting arena which will also aid in retention.

In closing, exciting times ahead for service personnel at the DST and for sport in general as we continue to get back to an action-packed sporting FOE, which will showcase the sporting prowess of the School.

8 Sporting talent will be developed, shaped and nurtured at DST during 2022

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THE SUSTAINER | HEADS OF TRADE

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Vehicle Support Specialist (VSS)

By WO1 (SSM) Michael Jones Recent times have been very uncertain and hard for many of us, but I have noted how hard you are all still battling on with day-to-day tasks. This has involved overcoming numerous challenges: from increased shipping activity with 17 Port & Maritime Regt RLC at the Sea Mounting Centre, supporting various Brigade and Field Army tasks, delivering continuation training and deploying on exercises to support to many operations. Training is key to VSS progression, it validates the trades capabilities and ensures that our people are current, competent and ready to deploy at all times.

Op WINDFIRM continues with a planned end date of 31 Mar 22.

The past year has seen some significant challenges with the movement of equipment through the decontamination process with circa 7,000 platforms and associated equipment deemed free from asbestos and over 5,500 platforms issued from Ashchurch depot to alternative storage sites across the UK. More recently we hosted the Director Land Equipment (DLE) Maj Gen Crook to oversee the last vehicle through the decontamination process.

Additionally DLE presented Cpl Hope with his LS&GC Clasp.

Once the task completes, all personnel that have been aligned will return to their parent units. A massive thank you to all involved for the past 24 months, it couldn’t have happened without the support from the VSS. The VSS Section in BATUS has, over these past few months, been supporting Ex PRAIRIE 26

TRANSPORTER. The bi-annual Port Task Group working in temperatures as low as -40°C from the prairies in Alberta to the East coast of Canada have returned over 350 platforms to support future exercises in the UK and Germany.

In Jan 22 the VSS in BATUS also said farewell to WO2 Reid after a 24-year career.

May 21 saw over 120 VSS, including Army Reserve personnel, deploy onto SPTA. The exercise delivered key Armoured Vehicle

8 Cpl Hope is presented his LSGC Clasp

8 Armoured vehicle competancy training, Salisbury Plain

competency training across our qualified drivers to maintain policy compliance and defence capability.

COVID-19 Force Protection measures were enforced prior to being placed into crew bubbles; from there they deployed on a variety of platforms including CR2, Warrior, Bulldog, CVR(T), Panther and AS90. The exercise saw all personnel being challenged and tested on Armoured Vehicle Standing Orders, vehicle components and controls, emergency procedures and driving techniques. The exercise was finalised with several VIP visits, including the Corps Col, Corps COS and Corps SM and DComd 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade.

We are working hard in the background and recently have reviewed all trade training courses with an introduction of the SNCO course to bring the trade into the modern era with potentially civilian recognised accreditation.

Finally, it is a huge honour to represent our trade and I am extremely proud to be your Head of Trade. If you have any concerns or questions then please submit them through your CoC. I look forward to visiting you all in the near future or to welcoming you at the next Trade Working Group. Thank you for your continued support.

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THE SUSTAINER | HEADS OF TRADE

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Ammunition Technician

By WO1 (Cdr) Ed Clinton This year marks a significant achievement in the Ammunition Technician trade’s history. The British Army’s original ammunition trade formed in 1922. A century later and the Ammunition Technician trade is prospering more than ever. This has been highlighted by yet another fast paced year for the trade. Deployments in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), Ammunition Technical Support (ATS) and Weapons Technical Intelligence (WTI) roles highlight the continued requirement for the trade to maintain the highest explosive safety standards.

These being most prevalent with the trade’s role in supporting Op PITTING, where our technicians not only deployed on short notice to Kabul; on arrival the breadth of their role was significant. From dealing with a suicide device using EOD principles, to the complexities of inspecting and movement of all explosives from the theatre.

Elsewhere, the team at DM Kineton also directly contributed to recent operations. The quick reponse to ensure 100-plus complex weapons - the Next Generation Light Anti-Tank (NLAW) weapon - were

8 Ammunition Technicians monitoring NLAW firings having supported the outload to Ukraine

servicable and operationally ready for Ukraine again highlights how critical the role of an Ammunition Technician is.

Substantial changes in equipment have also seen our junior technicians being asked to do more. The new EOD Remote Controlled Vehicle (RCV), the T7 Harris, is now fully operational and used by Ammunition Technicians throughout the world. As one of the most advanced EOD RCVs in the explosives industry, the requirement for the Ammunition Technician to adapt to modernisation and automation as part of the future force is becoming business as usual. These high levels of training and intellect have been recognised over the past 12 months, with 56 new into trade soldiers, enrolling on the Ordnance, Munition and Explosives (OME) Diploma. A Level 4 award, it is the joint highest of any Diploma a Private soldier can enroll on in the

8 The T7 Harris used by Ammunition Technicians throughout the Army

British Army. As a final good news story, with hard work from the wider trade, eight full Ammunition Technician Class 2 courses have been filled back to back, an impressive feat noting the difficulties of recruiting and training during COVID lockdowns. In addition to this, the staff at DEMS Trg Regt, notably Muntions Squadron, have continued to develop the training package and delivery. Now achieving a pass rate of 80+% in the last year, this is the highest rate for this course in some time.

Whilst not all areas across Defence that the trade has supported can be covered in this short article, the soldiers and officers of the trade should be immensley proud of their achievements. The trade’s contribution to the Army and also wider Defence continues to be of great significance: the trade continues to deliver and excel.

I To celebrate 100 years of the Ammunition Trades, DM Kineton will be hosting an ATO100 summer event ensuring all of the trade’s achievments are recognised, bringing new and old together.

8 Ammunition Technicians supporting Op PITTING with 33 Engr Regt (EOD&S)

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HEADS OF TRADE | THE SUSTAINER

Systems Analyst

By WO1 (SSM) Jason McConnell MBE The Systems Analyst Career Employment Group are the Information Technology (IT) specialists for Logistic Information Systems. The trade is looking for IT enthusiasts from across the Corps with varying opportunities across the trade including networking, IT projects and IT service management; these are the fundamental skills developed to enable logistic networks and data communications around the world.

Transfer opportunities are for Sergeants (minimum rank) given the shape, size and responsibility of the CEG that totals a workforce of 25. The dynamics of the trade enable hands on from the start and fosters a culture of personal and professional development that enables career progression in a challenging yet rewarding environment. All enquiries to transfer to the Systems Analyst trade can be directed to WO1 Jason McConnell (HoT) or WO2 Craig Lloyd.

The Systems Analysts are employed in various roles across Defence and as such have introduced training reform to meet these challenges. A standardisation, whereby individuals are trained and qualified in areas ranging from IT service management, Cisco Certified Network Associate and Windows Operating Systems, ensure that as a CEG, it is meeting defence transformation and the Corps’ strategy head on.

The Systems Analyst’s role and deployments are as individuals in most cases, but on occasion can be as part of a small team that is dependent on volume of equipment required, scale of deployment and

the SQEP needed in a role. An example of such a deployment is Ex KHANJAR OMAN 2021 where SSgt Jamie Clarke supported the 1 Royal Irish Battle Group.

We also have a Systems Analyst currently serving in the HQ British Force Post Office, Northolt and in UKStratCom Defence Support. Both have provided their perspective of what their current position entails: WO2 (SQMS) Paul Parsons, UKStratCom The Systems Analyst role within Def Sp, Jt Sp, DSCOM is to support the activity of digital and technical transformation, which is part of a wider defence transformation programme led by the Chief of Defence Logs & Support. DSCOM is at the very vanguard of digital transformation developing and delivering at pace. The digital team or ‘Tech Cell’ in which the Analyst is the SME are delivering digital solutions in unison with Defence technology and Business partners KPMG, Squarcle and Tech Modal.

This provides the supply chain operations control tower with cutting edge applications informed by the users that have digitalised various manual processes, but the work continues.

WO2 (SQMS) Sinclair John, BFPO, RAF Northolt WO2 John is the RLC Systems Analyst employed within Technical Support Services (TSS), HQ BFPO. He joined the organisation in

8 SSgt Clarle on Ex KHANJAR OMAN

May 2021, in the role of WOIC Future IT Developments, responsible for the management of all C4I platforms within HQ BFPO and throughout the British Forces Post Offices.

This has afforded him the opportunity to lean in and support other projects such as the Warehouse & Distribution Function on the Future Maritime Support Programme at HMNB Clyde and Portsmouth, as both Naval Bases migrated WITS, RIDELS and CRISP printers from legacy networks to MODNet. The Systems Analyst CEG is a unique and colleague driven trade, whether serving or having completed your service. Members are always looking out for opportunities to support each other throughout our service and beyond, which is a testament to the success of the newly instigated RLC Systems/Programmer Analyst reunion that was formed pre pandemic. To support this theme the trade would like to wish Cdr Kevin Bennett MBA and WO1 (SSM) Barry McConnell the very best after completing their full service.

If readers are interested in the trade, as well as the technological evolution of the logistic ICT equipment, WO1 (SSM) Blackwood has authored Digitising Kalamazoo.

The book details this and it will be available from the RLC Museum from March 2022.

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THE SUSTAINER | 60 CS SQN QOGLR From the Welsh mountains to the Welsh streets, 60 Close Support Squadron has been making an unforgettable impact over the past year. By Maj Alex Wilson, OC 60 CS Sqn QOGLR. In October 2021, 4 Regiment RLC undertook the ambitious task of entering two teams into the gruelling Cambrian Patrol (CP) challenge. CP sees the teams patrol over challenging terrain with heavy loads in an attempt to receive a coveted Bronze, Silver or Gold medal.

CP is recognised as the toughest patrolling competition in the world and roughly 5% of teams entering will receive the ultimate reward of Gold and almost a third of the teams do not even complete the challenge. This a testament to the sheer difficulty of CP. 4 Regt entered two patrol teams, made up of personnel from 60 CS Sqn QOGLR. In addition, the Regt also hosted the Czech International team from 42 Mechanised Infantry 'Svatováclavský'.

The incredibly demanding physical conditioning and robustness required to succeed in CP is not to be underestimated. In addition to honing their military patrolling skills, the teams conducted loaded marches over the Yorkshire 3 Peaks, Durdle Door and the South Downs, to fully prepare them for what Welsh mountains would throw at them.

However, the hard work and dedication put in by all personnel would be for nothing if the teams did not perform on the day.

D-Day finally arrived for the patrol teams and so began a nervous 48 hours for the team manager, SSgt Ganesh Gurung. Instrumental to the success of the teams, he tracked their progress closely, waiting tensely in anticipation for them to reach the finish.

With blistered feet and battered backs, Patrol Team 2 was delighted to be awarded with a Gold medal, the first team to receive a Gold medal in 2021. In addition, GOC 3 Div awarded them with a GOC’s coin in recognition of their efforts.

The Czech team received a Silver medal, an impressive feat given they competed in their second language and over unfamiliar terrain with foreign equipment. All the pressure 30

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Abingdon’s Gurkha loggies excel

was now on Patrol Team 1, which looked on as CGS began awarding teams their medals. Never in doubt, Patrol 1 received another Gold medal and in doing so made history.

With tears of joy and the widest of smiles, 4 Regt and 60 CS Sqn QOGLR had achieved their mission of receiving two Gold medals and making history!

On return from CP, 60 CS Sqn’s character and resilience was tested again, as the Sqn was deployed only 48 hours later. This time, the troops of 60 CS Sqn took to the streets of Wales where they would be making a difference by assisting the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST). Dispersed across the entire Principality, from the urban metropolis of Cardiff, to the remote mountains of Snowdonia, the impact of 60 CS Sqn’s efforts in Wales has been both far reaching and enduring.

8 CP Patrol Team 1 Commanded by SSgt Yogendra Thakuri

8 CP Patrol Team 2, commanded by Lt Max Walker with Commandant RMAS, Maj Gen Capps, Comd 101 Log Bde and Col of the QOGLR, Brig Reehal, Deputy Commander General, 3 UK Div, Brig Meredith, CO 4 Regt RLC, Lt Col Gartside

A Tri-Service effort, troops from across the Armed Forces have deployed to all corners of Wales as part of the WAST Driver Support Force (WDSF), led by Maj Alex Wilson. Assisting the paramedics with essential driving duties and vital first aid support, the effects of this MACA Task have provided WAST with the much-needed support that they have required during a winter of increased strain on the NHS. The nature of working as a paramedic is demanding on many levels. The long and unusual working hours combined with unpleasant and potentially traumatic incidents mean that the troops have needed to display high levels of resilience, professionalism and competence. Everyone’s commitment to deploy in support of the NHS in Wales has been exemplary and their unquestioning commitment, relentless hard work and undeniable resoluteness is worthy of special mention.

Jai 60 CS Sqn QOGLR, Jai 4 Regt RLC, Jai QOGLR, Jai Brigade of Gurkhas, Jai British Army!

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

#BritishArmyLogistics For all budding hotshots, who love a day on the range, The RLC has a group of likeminded fellow shooters who love to bring the shotguns out and smash a few targets both for fun and competitively.

Otherwise known as “Clay Pigeon Shooting”, there is no need to worry, because no actual pigeons are harmed in this sport.

The sport itself is relatively new as a recognised RLC Corps sport, but is growing year on year, with the fourth Corps Championships being held at Bramley Clay Target Range this year. Top prizes were taken by team captain, WO2 Chris Pye, who won the Corps High gun and Cpl Charlotte Preece, who defended her Female High Gun title. Finally after winning the very first RLC Championships, 17 P&M Regt took back the title of RLC Unit Champions. Since the inception of the RLC Clay Shooting Team, it now boasts three members shooting for the Army Team and two shooting within the Army Development Squad.

Our very own female hotshot Cpl Preece has been selected for the female development squad and LCpl Redford qualified for the Olympic Pathway for the discipline Olympic Trap. The RLC Team went on to compete at the Army Clay Target Championships held at Barbury Shooting School in Wiltshire. Competing against many far more established Corps the RLC placed second overall to gain its

SPORT | THE SUSTAINER

RLC Clay Target Shooting

8 Members of the Corps Team competing at the 2021 Army Champs.

Left: Cpl Preece starting her journey with the female Army Development Team

highest ever placing at the Army Championships. The winners “REME” are the team to beat and

The RLC has formed a great relationship with them; sharing many days on the range including at the Corps Championships.

RLC Clay Target Shooting is accessible to everyone of all abilities and the Association is actively looking for new members to take up the sport. This year the team had four of its members qualify to become CPSA Level 1 Instructors, allowing them to teach novice shots to be safe and competent with a shotgun and host more taster days throughout the coming season for all units (keep your eyes out for Pt 1Orders). Many of our major units have club guns meaning you don’t need a your own to shoot. Just turn up with your ear defenders and eye protection (supplied if required) and the instructors and unit reps will do the rest.

More information on how to get involved in RLC Clay Target shooting can be found on the Association’s Defence Connect page, where a list of unit representatives can be found, or through our social media pages or by contacting the team captain WO2 Chris Pye at: Christopher.pye428@mod.gov.uk 8 2021 Corps High Gun WO2 Chris Pye. He also qualified for the Army Team

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORT

#BritishArmyLogistics

RLC Netball

By Lt Ellie Sutherland The RLC 2021 Netball Squad welcomed many new players following a long period without any organised sport. The season kicked off with the Inter-Corps Championships training camp, with our new coach, ex-RLC and Welsh International Fern Davies quickly setting the tone for the week. The two-day training camp covered everything from netball basics to set match-plays, allowing the coach to select the three teams for the upcoming tournament.

As part of its preparation, the squad travelled to Cheltenham College to play Hucclecote’s U16 Regional and Premier Division team. A fantastic evening of challenging match-play to prepare the squad for the upcoming championships.

In Pool A, the RLC Red team had a strong start to the championships, securing wins against the first two opponents, the Intelligence Corps A and the Army Air Corps A. Unfortunately, despite all the hard work and determination, this winning streak ended when playing against the Army Medical Services’ A team.

With plenty of frustratingly close matches, the Reds performed better throughout the tournament and as they spent longer playing as a unit. The tournament ended with

a competitive and low scoring match against the overall winners of Pool A, the AGC A team.

The RLC Blue team had a fantastic tournament, winning all but one of their matches. Most notably, they beat the Adjutant General’s Corps B team 12 – 6 during a tense match to determine who was to enter the final. With the support of both coaches and the rest of the Squad, once again, the Blues secured a win against the AGC B team to be announced winners of Pool B! After only a few training sessions together and the first experience of netball for some members of the RLC Yellow team, the team set out with determination and teamwork for the championships. Improving individual skills and gelling as a team, as the competition progressed, RLC Yellow was able to secure a couple of wins against REME B and AGC Devs. An impressive debut for the team as it was placed sixth overall in Pool B.

8 The RLC Inter-Services squad

A fantastic week which allowed the RLC netball squad, with many new members, to get back together after a long period of not playing.

The Squad shows a huge amount of potential and is looking forward to future competitions.

The following RLC players were selected for the Army Women’s Netball Long Squad for the upcoming season; Captain Kate Whitby 157 RLC, Captain Gemma Pearson 11X*, Captain Jordan Kemp 9 RLC, Cpl Allie Taylor 3 Sigs, Cpl Andi Taraki 17 RLC*, Pte Naomi Williams 17 RLC*, Pte Lo Tuigau 36 RE*, Pte Loz Naitau 29 RLC, Pte Darcelle Francis 17 RLC* (*received an Army Cap against the Republic of Ireland on 30 Oct 21).

Two RLC players have also been selected for the new Army Men’s Netball Squad and invited to trial for Knights, a professional men’s squad; Pte Lowther 17 RLC and Pte Griffiths 29 RLC. Men are invited to join any RLC netball training events and fixtures.

If you are interested in getting involved, please speak to: RLC Squad Captain: SSgt Verlander: Lauren.Verlander310@mod.gov.uk Army Men’s Netball Team Manager: WO2 Stevens Jay.Stevens199@mod.gov.uk Upcoming fixtures: 18 – 20 Mar 22: UK tour in Cardiff 13 Apr 22: RLC vs Challengers (Gloucester Prem) 27 Apr 22: Boden Cup (RLC Inter-Units – Aldershot) Nov 22: Overseas tour (location TBC) 8 A flying interception by Pte Williams, 17 P&M Regt

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#BritishArmyLogistics

By SSgt Gowing Ex RLC RUNNER 3 The rescheduled Ex RLC RUNNER 3 in September 2021 was a great success that brought together 41 enthusiastic runners of all abilities from across the Corps. Ex RLC RUNNER aims to educate and develop those interested in taking their running to the next level.

Excellent sessions were delivered by the training team (Cpls Jack Halsey, Nabs Gurung and Issac Boatang and Sgts Ant Curtis and Stu McCluskey) who ensured a safe and effective camp and deserve thanks. Delivering a holistic approach to health and wellbeing there was first class catering support from Sgt Ash Harker and Cpl Ben Smith who delivered an outstanding healthy menu. The exercise culminated with the ‘Latrigg’ race won by Cpl Charlotte Preece and Lt Max Walker.

Flying start to the Cross Country season The 2021/22 XC Season kicked off in September with 4x4 relays at the Inter-Corps at Tweseldown, where the RLC Ladies masters took Gold, the Seniors Bronze and the Male Juniors, Silver. There are exciting times ahead for the XC team with a number of challenging events.

Winter training has continued and

SPORT | THE SUSTAINER

The RLC Up and Running

the team is looking forward to a highly competitive season.

The RLC is selected to represent the Army and UK Armed Forces There was a strong showing at the London Marathon with four RLC runners selected to represent the Army (Cpl Jack Halsey 2:42:16, WO2 Phil Devine 3:00:38, Maj Debbie Whiston 3:15:41 and Maj Jacquie Barlow 3:49:38). Lt Max Walker and Cpl Jack Halsey were both selected for the UK Armed Forces Team Relays and for the Army at the 10K

8 Runners on completion of Latrigg

Leeds Abby Dash, along with Pte Ifan Philips (3RLC) who made his Army debut with 35:19.

The committee would like to thank all units for supporting RLC Running.

Want to take your running to new level? Then become part of the RLC Runner community. Ensure you connect on social media or email 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: @UKArmyLogistics

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORT The RLC Sailing Association (RLCSA) has four distinct disciplines - offshore sailing, dinghy sailing, kitesurfing and windsurfing - within one club.

2021 summary In 2021, members of the RLCSA represented the Army at the Services’ Offshore Regatta and the Inter-Services Dinghy Racing Championships. At a Corps level, the offshore racing team retained the Dolphin trophy as the overall winners of the Army Offshore Regatta and one of our windsurfers competed at the Inter-Corps Championships, finishing in the top third.

The Seaview Regatta was a great success in 2021. The aim of the regatta is to introduce novice sailors and their chain of command to racing, alongside offering continuation training for those already qualified to progress in the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) scheme.

Due to COVID restrictions there were limited opportunities for our kitesurfers and windsurfers in 2021. Despite the limitations, the windsurfers have continued to develop foiling skills with two RLC sailors attending the introductory foil racing series.

2022 look forward The RLCSA is always looking for new members across all disciplines to broaden participation and intends to host a multiactivity day in 2022 to introduce members of the Corps to the disciplines. Sailors and riders of all ranks and experience are encouraged to attend the multiactivity day and the planned events below.

The RLCSA intends to enter the 2022 Inter Corps Championships in all four disciplines. The offshore team will defend the Dolphin trophy in May 22 and the 2022

The RLC Sailing Association Commodore: Vice Commodore: Rear Commodore Offshore: Rear Commodore Dinghy: Rear Commodore Kitesurfing: Rear Commodore Windsurfing: Secretary:

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#BritishArmyLogistics

RLC Sailing Association

Seaview Regatta will be held between 7-9 Jun 22.

For those who would rather sail outside of the UK, the Corps yacht (Spirit of Saint George II) will be based in the Balearics in summer 2022. Units and individuals can charter the yacht for weeklong legs.

Training opportunities The Army InshoreSr Sail Training Centre (AISTC) is based in Baker Barracks, Thorney Island. The AISTC is the perfect location to learn kitesurfing, windsurfing and dinghy sailing in the Army. The facilities and instructors at AISTC are fantastic, offering a full calendar of practical courses between Apr and Oct. Unit and individual bookings are available and standard learning credits can be used in support of courses. Once personnel have achieved the basic qualifications, they can develop those skills using the RLCSA kitesurfing and windsurfing equipment at RLC training events or use the facilities and equipment at local sailing clubs. The Joint Services

Brig J Chestnutt Col E Corrigan Lt Col V Crompton MBE Lt Col B Ekman MBE Capt G Clarke Sgt C Casteleiro Capt N Hemsworth

8 Racing in 2021 despite restrictions

Adventurous Sail Training Centre and the Army Offshore Sailing Centre are both based out of Gosport and offer opportunities for offshore activities and courses. All three sailing centres are fully accredited with the RYA or British Kitesports Association.

The RLC has previously sent soldiers for an attachment to the AISTC as seasonal instructors.

Serving as a member of the AISTC team, soldiers (with no previous experience) are given the opportunity to learn skills across the breadth of water sport disciplines (such as dinghy, windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand-up-paddle boarding and powerboating) gaining instructor qualifications and developing them as future leaders.

For more information on the RLCSA, please contact the secretary: Nicola.Hemsworth953@mod.gov.uk search RLC Sailing on Facebook to join the closed group or follow rlc_sa on Instagram.

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

#BritishArmyLogistics As with all sports teams across the three Services, Ice Hockey was plagued with a lack of training and fixtures due to the pandemic. Any hockey played after this drought, thanks to the lockdowns and with no ice-time, would therefore be fraught with difficulty both on and off the ice; with training camps and fixtures proving even more arduous to arrange.

An impressive victory against the REME made The RLC the 2021 John Edwards Cup Champions, but the annual Army Cup would prove a real test for RLC Ice Hockey, playing teams from across the Service, namely The Infantry, Royal Engineers, REME A & B, Royal Signals and a mixed cap-badge team, The All Stars. Numbers were as strong as ever for The RLC and having reached the roster maximum for one team alone, meant the team had to be split into two, giving double the chance of success but also twice as much pressure.

Nevertheless, the show had to go on and the tournament would be played. RLC A got things underway with comfortable victories against REME B and the Royal Signals; beating them 7-1 and 13-0 respectively. The RLC B team missed out on a first day opening win, coming up second best for their opening games by strong teams from the Infantry, All Stars and REME A. The first day of play was rounded out with RLC A losing to a well-drilled Sappers’ team, but still in with a chance at a shot for the semi-finals.

Day two and the final round of

SPORT | THE SUSTAINER

Ice Hockey in a pandemic

games of the Army Cup saw RLC B beat REME B bagging themselves a playoff place for the Plate final against the Royal Signals. This proved to be a closely fought, fast paced game, with RLC B coming up trumps and winning by a score of 1-0 with a goal by Pte Bradley White.

The RLC A team would have to beat a well-trained REME A side, in order to progress to the Cup final; in what would turn out to be a repeat of the John Edwards Cup earlier in the year. Doing just that, RLC A narrowly came out on top in the dying minutes of an end-to-end

8 RLC Team A at the Army Cup

game with crucial goals from Cpl Fred Morley and Capt Jake Broad to seal the deal.

The two days of action-packed hockey all came down to an Infantry vs RLC A final. Both teams fancied their chances and neither were about to be walked over. The game proved a stalemate until the last period where Cpl Morley bagged the all-important goal to crown the RLC A The Army Cup Champions 2022.

The RLC Ice Hockey Team looks forward to its upcoming overseas visit to Canada in 2022, where it will conduct a training camp utilising facilities in BATUS, then compete against both civilian and military teams across Alberta, including the likes of Canmore, Banff and Edmonton, finishing up in Calgary.

If you are interested in taking up the sport of Ice Hockey, or you have previous playing experience and wish to compete for The RLC, Army or at Tri-Service level, contact The RLC Chiefs’ Manager: SSgt David Thomson – david.thomson635@mod.gov.uk 8 RLC Team B win against the R Signals

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

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RLC MUSEUM | THE SUSTAINER

Op CORPORATE By - Major (Ret’d) Simon Walmsley Director, The Royal Logistic Corps Museum

The Falklands War took place forty years ago this year and all the Forming Corps of The RLC deployed soldiers to support the campaign. Logistics were a vital component of this operation, which was conducted some 8,000 miles away from the UK. The Falklands War is the last war in which Britain acted alone and in which every aspect of logistic support was achieved inhouse, or by requestioning civilian assets such as North Sea Ferries to transport the force and its equipment south.

In every subsequent major war or campaign since 1982, British military involvement has been part of a coalition, normally as part of NATO or a UN force, which makes the Falklands War the last truly British show.

The RLC Museum captures the story of the Falklands War in a single display case, containing a Disruptive Pattern Material combat jacket, some 58-pattern webbing, a “Deputy Dawg hat”, a selection of weapons, a fragment of a mortar bomb and a South Atlantic Medal with rosette. It is difficult for these

8 Falklands Display Case

few objects, some pictures and supporting text to convey to the visitor the harsh conditions experienced by the soldiers on this campaign, or the difficulty The RLC’s Forming Corps had in supporting and sustaining the force during the ground war.

There were very few vehicles available. Many of the support helicopters and other vital equipment had been lost with the sinking of the Atlantic Conveyor and most soldiers were required to walk great distances across boggy terrain to reach their objectives. The force was resupplied from the small harbour at Ajax Bay, with limited

space, a tiny jetty and many missing pieces of equipment, especially fuel handling capability.

However, under frequent and regular air attack the resupply process did work and although stock levels were dangerously low, the force was sufficiently supported to allow the war to be won.

The few objects we have on display, held under bright lights in a glass box can look sterile, flat and lifeless and struggle to impart the story of this difficult operation.

It is for this reason many museums build dioramas, or mini stage sets, so that the objects on display can be seen in context, such as a WW1 trench experience. But there is no room for a larger Falklands display in the new RLC Museum.

Thus, The RLC Museum tries to use “people’s stories” where it can, to flesh out displays like this. The written account of a soldier who was part of a campaign, can bring a story to life. Someone describing how their feet sunk in six inches with every step, paints a more vivid picture, than a historian recounting that the land was waterlogged.

So if you are passing Worthy Down please do visit the museum and see our Falklands Display case, where my “Deputy Dawg hat” which I was wore as an 18-year-old soldier deployed on Op CORPORATE, is on display.

Ajax Bay 4 June 1982

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC FOUNDATION

#BritishArmyLogistics

MGL’s Professional Reading List was published nearly two years ago. Since that time, circa 40 books, countless journal articles and internet links have been appraised and publicised to support MGL’s aspirations for the Corps to create and retain a repository of historic, contemporary and personal/ professional development information.

The List is planned to be updated in 2022 and all Corps and ex-Corps members are asked to submit their recommendations to the Foundation Chairman, Maj Gen Angus Fay CB, for consideration. In support of the List’s update, the 2022 RLC Foundation Review will contain several appraisals of a range of publications with the drawdown from Afghanistan as a central feature. For now though, Tim Marshall’s Sunday Times bestseller and Rails of War are reviewed below. These popular entry level publications, covering a bewildering array of geopolitical matters, offer the opportunity to develop a knowledge baseline from which the big issues of the day can be contextualised.

MGL’s Professional Reading List and the RLC Foundation Book Club

The Power of Geography

By Tim Marshall, Eliot & Thompson, London, 2021 Prisoners of Geography, 10 maps simply explained in one book that bring a semblance of understanding to contemporary world politics – what’s not to like? That was Tim Marshall’s New York Times and Sunday Times best seller prequel to this year’s publication, The Power of 38

Geography. Unsurprisingly, this book is also a Sunday Times best seller and rightly so. Marshall’s literary formula is based on a simple premise; the history and future of selected states and regions is predominantly dictated by their geography. What are Iran’s future options if it wants to shed its isolated status, what direction can Saudi Arabia take when the world moves away from oil derivatives and where does Britain fit into a multipolar world? Marshall offers some fascinating insights on these three imponderables plus five other states, the Sahel and the environment of space. Explained in a witty style, each self-contained chapter explores the history, economics, culture and religious considerations of each state/region by using geography as the driving influence of historic and future options. A compelling read, filled with hard to refute facts and easy to dip into – a welcome starting point for those interested in broadening their knowledge of international relations.

Rails of War: Supplying the Americans and their Allies in China-Burma-India

By Steven James Hantzis, Potomac Books, Imprint of the University of Nebraska Press, 2017 Hantzis tells the story of one small but vital element in what is still widely considered a forgotten theatre of WW2 – The Far East; China-Burma and India. The account is told through the exploits of the 721st Railway Operating Battalion, one of seven major US units sent to operate 700 miles of railway between Calcutta and Ledo in January 1944. A vital part of the theatre plan was to supply Chinese forces (the Kuomintang) together with British and US special operation units in the fight against the Japanese. The railway was the life-line to Ledo from where the

materiel was airlifted over ‘the hump’ (the road from Ledo was not built when the railway men commenced their mission). The story is as much about men versus the environment as it is the enemy.

One of those unusual books which members are likely to find inspirational as ordinary men are routinely ordered to accomplish extraordinary tasks. Rail might seem a dated mode of transport but one only has to think about how the Northern Distribution Rail Network, running from Riga over 3,000 miles to Afghanistan, was by political and operational necessity, a route along which well over 100,000 containers were moved to support coalition forces. Who knows what modes of transport will be relied on to deploy and sustain forces over the next three decades but only a brave (or rash) planning team will dismiss rail out-of-hand. Hantzis offers some valuable insights into the type of enduring challenges that will need to be overcome in future conflicts and underpins why some semblance of core rail knowledge needs to be retained.

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#BritishArmyLogistics The Royal Logistic Corps Foundation exists to foster the relationship between the RLC, industry and academia; sharing best practice, knowledge and mutual understanding amongst logistics professionals.

Regrettably the RLC Foundation Awards Dinner on 3 Nov 21 was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions. The Worshipful Company of Carmen came to the rescue and the Foundation managed to air a virtual awards event via YouTube on 29 Dec 21. There were eight awards presented on the night and award winners and the award sponsors are shown below: 8 Mentoring Support Award – WO1 Andrew Saupe. Sponsored

by Wincanton 8 Industry Professional Development Award – Squarcle.

Sponsored by TVS Supply Chain Solutions 8 Regional Partnership Award – World Fuel Services. Sponsored

by Fastrax 8 Best Article published in RLC Foundation Review Magazine – Mr Jacob Llewellyn. Sponsored

by Leidos 8 Thought Leadership Award – TVS Supply Chain Solutions.

Sponsored by World Fuel Services 8 Junior Initiative Award – OCdt Alexander Champion.

Sponsored by Squarcle 8 Apprentice of the Year Award – LCpl Kyle Williams. Sponsored

by Pearson TQ 8 MGL’s Special Recognition Award – Lt Tom Martens.

Sponsored by DHL On 27 Jan 22 the RLC Foundation Winter Lecture (The Brave New World) attracted an online audience of 160 viewers. The event was hosted

by Maj Gen Simon Hutchings OBE, Master General of Logistics. Guest presenters were Professor Beatrice Heuser, Chair of International Relations at the University of Glasgow and Damian Alexander, a Logistics Advisor for Leidos.

On 10 Mar 22 the Foundation hosted a Future Management of Data event via Zoom.This event was hosted

by Maj Gen Angus Fay, Chairman of the RLC Foundation. Guest speakers were Ewen Mallock, Head of Technology at Techmodal and Simon Puttick, Head CIO, Defence Support UK Strategy Command.

RLC FOUNDATION | THE SUSTAINER

The RLC Foundation

PA Consulting will host a webinar event on 26 Apr 22. This virtual event will focus on living up to COP26 by achieving more sustainable supply chains. Guest speakers will include Kim McCann a Partner from PA Consulting and Brig Lee Daley, Head of Logistics Transformation, Defence Support Command.

RLC Foundation is still working from home but plans to be back in the office by Apr 22. Present contact details are:

8 Regrettably the RLC Foundation Awards Dinner 2021 was cancelled

• Director - Alan Woods: rlcfwoods@gmail.com • Business Support Manager Chrissie Ross: therlcfoundation@gmail.com To follow the Foundation on LinkedIn or Facebook, search for Royal Logistic Corps Foundation or for more information about the Foundation, visit our website: www.rlcfoundation.com

Future events will be published in the next edition of The Sustainer

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THE SUSTAINER | F35 - A TALE OF TWO SHIPS A tale of two ships, a logistician and some Fifth Generation Jets.

By Maj B RLC, SO2 Air Land Integration, F35 Lightning Force.

No two days are the same in the Army, or so the saying goes. But for yours truly there are days with remarkable similarities, such as getting lost onboard two identical aircraft carriers. How can this be something you can find yourself doing on two continents in consecutive months?

Newly appointed as the F35B Lightning Force Air-Land Integration Officer (ALI) and the only British Army officer inside the operations team for the Fifth Generation Stealth Fighter Jet, this comes with the territory as well as being the first Army officer to have served with both new Aircraft Carriers. For reasons of operational security, the F35 Lightning Force has asked me to conceal my identity.

So why is there a Loggie playing with fifth generation jets?

Such heady responsibilities do provide rich opportunities to develop and operate at the vanguard of the Joint Strike Fighter programme.

Seeing the opportunity on an E2 jobs list, I continued my unorthodox career path and went for it. It has not failed to deliver. I am part of a wider Battlefield Co-ordination Detachment (Air) (BCDA) cell and sits within a small team of Army personnel spread across the RAF, providing similar duties across the RAF’s Typhoon squadrons and

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Double Vision

other frontline squadrons. These also includes Ground Liaison Officers (Captains), a role open to any cap badge.

F35B Lightnings Based at RAF MARHAM in Norfolk, and working directly to two F35B Lightning squadrons, I find myself at the vanguard of ALI doctrine development as well as planning and executing the iconic fighters’ engagements with land targets.

As the F35B programme sees jets fly east from America like migratory birds and as the soon to be third Front Line squadron (809 Royal

8 The F35 Lightning Sqn on the flight deck of HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH

Naval Air Squadron) stands up; interest from the Army matches an appetite to fully integrate the stealth fighter jet into Land Operations – which is where I come in.

By its very nature the Lightnings’ natural habitat is on the flight deck of our new aircraft carriers. Within the space of two months, I embarked on an adventure into the North Sea, working on 207 Sqn’s first embarkation on our newest Carrier HMS PRINCE OF WALES. This was a resounding success and a first Carrier Qualification for this leviathan of the seas.

Life onboard HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH and PRINCE OF WALES Weighing in at 65,000 tons each, the two carriers are goliaths of the oceans. Getting lost onboard is something that brings a wry smile to the sailors’ faces, as they attempt to deliver instructions in the foreign language that is ‘Jack speak’: port, aft, heads, forecastles, oggin and avast to name a few of the terms.

Life onboard is no pleasure cruise; with incessant drills (fires/floods/ crash on deck/man overboard), bringing home the tangible risks.

8 Maj B onboard HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH in the Arabian Gulf

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8 Maj B on the flight deck of HMS PRINCE OF WALES for Carrier Qualifications

Good food, comfy beds and four hot meals a day, more than make up for living below the waterline and you soon settle into a routine (mainly of getting lost and found again). Turning on channel 17 of the ship’s TV brings live images of the flight deck, showing you what’s flying and whether you can slip up for a run when the ship is not at Flying Stations.

I had the privilege of accompanying the “chock-heads” launching and recovering jets onboard PRINCE OF WALES one evening and words cannot explain the exquisite thrill of being feet away from 60,000lbs of warplane as she slips past your fingertips, racing away into a pin prick of light in the ink black night sky; the exhaust flux quite literally knocking the breath out of your chest… then silence!

No sooner had I washed the sea salt from my combats for the first time, I was faced with the prospect of delivering Close Air Support to the 4 Brigade and RIRISH Battle Group deployed in the searing hot wastes of Ras Madrakah in Oman; and a chance to deploy with HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH in the Arabian Sea. The Ras Madrakah training area…

The new BATUS Acting as the Ground Liaison Officer (GLO) I flew out to join the Carrier

F35 A TALE OF TWO SHIPS | THE SUSTAINER

Strike Group (CSG) in Oman and shaped another first for Defence by integrating the immense combat firepower of the CSG into the Army activity, delivering Land Persistent Engagement in Oman. This culminated in yet another first when F35 Lightning ‘strikes’ were delivered by 617 Dambuster Sqn and 211 USMC Wake Island Avengers onto a challenging OPFOR target array deep in the Wadi Hytam complex. Another first being the execution of Forward Air Controls Airborne (FAC-A) from one of 1 AAC’s Wildcats, whilst those on the ground craned their necks to watch the Apache wheeling overhead. It was really a glimpse of a Lightning that everyone was seeking. They weren’t left wanting as eight carrier launched Lightnings streaked in at 200ft!

With the draw-down of BATUS another door opens. Ras Madrakah training area and Duqm are likely to become household names amongst the military as the Army pivots to its Land Regional Hub (LRH) and Persistent Engagement in the Sultanate of Oman. Coming in at a little under 1,500 sq. miles, the area is home to the nomadic Bedouin peoples who could also be seen safely gathered on a hillside watching these new ‘ships of the desert’ coming in to deliver their ordnance. Working alongside our Omani brethren is not something new and Ex KHANJAR OMAN 21

8 A F35 Lighting from 617 Dambuster Sqn conducting show of force into the Oman Desert on Op FORTIS/Ex KHANJAR OAMN. Credit: Sgt Maher RLC

8 Ras Madrakah training area. With the draw-down of BATUS another door opens

paved the way for future annual exercise cycles to fill the gap left by the reduction in BATUS activity.

With an ideally placed deep water SPOD and International standard APOD in Duqm and Joint Logistical Support Base, Ras Madrakah promises to deliver opportunity in spades. Activity will see increased International, Multi Domain and Combined Arms exercising in an area considerably bigger than BATUS and with differing challenges of operating in the desert. The future looks bright.

The opportunities the Corps provides to work well outside the RLC domain cannot be better exemplified by this RLC Major’s experience of finding himself writing combat doctrine and executing operations at the tip of the RAF’s spear. Next time you’re on exercise look to the skies and you might just see a Lighting streaking overhead.

8 HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH departing Duqm port, Oman, headed for the Suez Canal

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

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1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BICESTER CO: Lt Col H Cook • Adjt: Capt C Graham • RSM: WO1 J Halliday 1 Regiment RLC remains committed to delivering logistic support across the full spectrum of military and civilian activity.

With 2 Squadron driving over 84,500km on Ex IRON VIPER, 23 Squadron deploying overseas on Op CABRIT and 12 Squadron providing support to the Welsh Ambulance Service as part of Op RESCRIPT, individuals have still found time to excel in the sporting environment with some the achievements highlighted below.

2 Squadron Motorsports - The Sqn, supported by elements from across the Regt, helped Bicester Garrison and Mission Motorsport - a charity whose aim is to get disabled veterans into motorsport - deliver a ‘Coffee and Supercars’ event, serving refreshments and running stands on personal weapons, communications and vehicle maintenance. The event saw around 200 supercars including the very latest Lamborghinis, Ferraris and a £0.5M 1973 Porsche GT7 descend on Bicester for the day, to raise money for this worthy charity.

Unsurprisingly, given the clientele and the quality of bacon and egg rolls served by Cpl Gibson and Cpl Bradley, the cash tins were soon full!

Karting - The final event before the Christmas event was the annual ‘Sleigh Race’: Squadron teams compete to cover a two-mile course, requiring a combination of skills including a good strategy (SSgt K Harbour) a lightweight driver (Pte Dickinson), a high quality sleigh and some grit and determination to propel it. This year, 2 Sqn was the clear winner.

12 Squadron Skiing – The 1 Regt Nordic Ski team deployed on Ex BLUEBELL, a REME training camp in preparation for the Army Championships. Two good weeks of training, both biathlon and classic skiing, culminated in two 7.5km Biathlon races where a largely novice team all managed to 42

get over the line. Capt Newton won the women’s category and Cpl Weaver finished seventh in the men’s race after some technical issues with a ski. The team now looks forward to deploying to Germany and competing against the rest of the Army.

23 Squadron The OC, Maj Byrne, continued his work on the Op RESCRIPT project to manage the roll out of the COVID-19 vaccination for 12–15-year-olds.

Meanwhile workforce numbers started to slowly rise, with the return of Sqn personnel from operations.

Boxing & Mountain Biking - Away from work and trade related

8 Christmas Sleigh. (from L-R): Capt Treglohan, Pte Norton, Pte Timmins, Pte Dickinson, SSgt Harbour, Pte McGinley, Pte Waters, LCpl Weir and LCpl Cox

business, the Sqn has seen success across several sporting disciplines, most notably LCpl K Austerfield being successful in selection for the Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) as part of the Army Elite Sport Programme (AESP) in boxing. Cpl K Welsh has also found success in MTB Enduro, being selected and competing for the Corps and Army team.

74 Squadron Wargaming - Aside from enabling all the Regt’s activities, the highlight of 74 HQ Sqn’s sporting activities this quarter has been the hosting and competing of the Wargaming Championships (South). The event saw teams from across the Army competing with representation from the Army Air Corps, Infantry, Engineers, Signals and Logistics.

1 Rifles came away as the overall team winners. Cpl Matthew Cuckson (Comms Tp) put together an amazing competition and is deserving of a special mention.

8 LCpl Austerfield (left) following her victory at the MK Londsdale Cup. Despite a dislocated shoulder she still managed to win the bout!

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

3 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col G Wincott • Adjt: Capt A Baldwin • RSM: WO1 R Conway The end of 2021 brought a whirlwind of exciting and demanding exercises for 3 Regiment RLC, all whilst maintaining a focus on operational readiness, supporting commercial organisations and continuing its overseas deployments. The period has been an excellent developmental opportunity for every soldier across the Regt.

Kicking off the exercise period, 32 Sqn conducted a comprehensive training package ahead of Ex IRON STORM, consisting of complex dismounted ranges on a variety of weapon systems designed to really test and develop firers under pressure. This culminated in the Sqn deploying fully ready to support the KRH as part of the CSS task force.

Meanwhile, 31 Sqn deployed on Ex CHAMELEON STACEY taking everyone back to basics, focusing on the fundamentals of soldiering.

35 Sqn was busy hosting the first regimental “Strong Soldier” competition highlighting each squadron’s impressive lifting capabilities in a series of gruelling contests with 31 Sqn coming out on top.

In between exercise periods the Regt entered Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL, achieving a Certificate of Merit under arduous conditions throughout the competition.

Continuing to develop their range skills, soldiers from 32 Sqn

8 31 and 32 Sqns supported 20 ABCT on Ex IRON VIPER

8 32 Sqn’s Scottish AT package saw individuals gaining winter mountaineering and climbing qualifications deployed to conduct a live NLAW range in early November, giving soldiers the opportunity to engage tank targets up to 300m.

November saw the culmination of all sqn exercises with the Bde exercise, Ex IRON VIPER. It gave the Regt a chance to test its mettle and conduct trade training within a Bde context. Working tirelessly, the Regt came together to deliver a close support logistic capability to its fighting dependencies. The troops encountered a wide range of complexities from torrential downpours to snowy conditions, complex attacks and CPERS scenarios, all on top of its complex deployed role of sustaining the battle. 21 GS Sqn ensured all battle-winning materiel was in a fit state ready to surge forward as soon as it was demanded, moving forward with the battle as it progressed deeper. Concurrently, 31 and 32 CS Sqns were committed to the delivery ammunition and defence stores in support of 20 Armoured Brigade Combat Team (20 ABCT) in a succession of distribution points, largely conducted by night. The Regt proved its capacity to sustain high-tempo operations.

The benefit of working hard is that

it's easy to justify playing hard.

Following 32 Sqn’s three-week autumn adventurous training package in the Lake District, soldiers from across the Regt were able to get out onto snow and take advantage of the winter environment. Ex KNEES BEND, the RLC Alpine Ski Camp, saw alpine skiers of all experiences train together in Norway in preparation for the Divisional Championships that was cancelled last minute.

Other members of 3 Regt deployed to the Scottish Highlands to take part in an extremely demanding AT package led by 32 Sqn, which saw individuals gaining winter mountaineering and winter climbing qualifications. The Regt squeezed a lot of AT in and will continue to deliver as many AT packages as it can over the next quarter.

3 Regt has had ample opportunity to come together regardless of trade to provide close support in its core role, while taking advantage of the space in-between to conduct challenging, progressive training. It has been an excellent training year despite the challenges of COVID-19, a training year that culminated with a Station Christmas Fayre that really brought to the fore how cohesive the Unit has continued to be.

8 Rock climbing in the Lake District

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4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col A Gartside • Adjt: Capt J Critien • RSM: WO1 G Johnson The last three months have continued to see 4 Regiment RLC committed to operations and exercises while preparing for the announcements within the Integrated Review. The Review outcome will see 4 Regiment resubordinate to 12 Armoured Brigade Comat Team in early 2022.

Some of most significant events during this quarter have been the ongoing support to the Welsh Ambulance Services Trust (WAST) MACA and support to a plethora of exercises. On the WAST MACA, a Tri-Service and pan-regimental team, led by OC 60 CS Sqn QOGLR, has provided ambulance drivers across Wales. While on exercise, the Regt has supported numerous tasks, including Ex IRON VIPER (in support of 101 Bde validation).

Alongside operational tasks, sport and military skills have remained at the forefront of activity and despite the level of operational commitments there have been numerous successes. There are perhaps too many to mention, but some of the highlights are below.

Like many RLC units, 4 Regt trained for and competed in the Gore Trophy. The Unit performed exceptionally well across all disciplines and was placed second in the male event and second in the female event.

In support of the ABF, Cpl Rana

8 Help for Hasti charity run

8 Cpl Wilson – RLC Young Sportswoman of the year (33 GS Sqn) organised an Inter-Sqn football competition. After a closely fought event, 4 CS Sqn (C Troop) was crowned champion after an all 4 CS Sqn final. The result was fiercely contested by the losing team who claimed there was too much time added on, during which

C Troop scored a winning goal!

4 Regt was also crowned the RLC Volleyball Champions. The team, led by Sgt Nishan Gurung duly accepted the award from Brigadier Reehal MBE, to add to the growing list of volleyball successes this year.

Two teams from the Unit also achieved phenomenal and historical success at the Cambrian Patrol in October, both winning a Gold medal (the first time a sub-unit has won two golds) proving their all-round soldiering skill and resilience throughout an arduous event.

Other highlights have included a charity event to support Maj Chris Brannigan and the ‘Help for Hasti’ charity, away days to climb Pen-y-fan, LCpl Vivek being crowned the RLC Novice Male Badminton Champion and Cpl Wilson being awarded RLC Young Sportswoman of the Year at The RLC Sports Awards.

To end the year, there was the usual Seniors Vs Officers football match (5:3) and also a Ptes vs JNCOs match, which saw the JNCOs comfortably beat the Ptes.

From the start of January 22, training has started to prepare a squad of Boxers for an Inter-Sqn event in March 22.

8 The Inter-Sqn Football winners

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DISHFORTH CO: Lt Col A Richardson • Adjt: Capt H Suff • RSM: WO1 M Hickey Sport It has been another busy and successful period for 6 Regiment RLC in terms of sport. Cpl Limbu and LCpl Quigley represented the Corps in the Inter-Corps Badminton Championship. Both helped their respected teams triumph in the finals. Capt Lewis Taylor won Gold representing the Army at Alpine Skiing in Austria. Pte Pursglove was selected for the Army Women’s Rugby Team trials and the Regimental Masters’ Team placed second in the Army Cross Country Championships.

8 CDLS meets with members of the Regimental Catering Department

Promotions This quarter saw the WO2 to WO1 and WO2 SSgt to WO2 promotion boards announced. Congratulations go to WO2 (SSM) Macrae and WO2 Lt and SSgts Errington, Nash, Hall, Guthrie and Wooley for promoting to WO2. An amazing achievement and a major milestone in your professional careers. This quarter also saw the promotion of our Regimental 2IC, Maj Duncan Lowe. Congratulations on your promotion to Lieutenant Colonel.

Visits The Regt was honoured to host not one but two VIP guests this quarter.

6 Regt soldiers got the chance to meet Lt Gen Richard Wardlaw OBE, the Chief of Defence Logistics and Support, who spoke about his strategic priorities and talked to them about their recent work whilst

8 LCpl Quigley and Cpl Limbu at the RLC Badminton Championships (UK) Div visited the Regt for the first time in his tenure and presented the Regt with the Rhino Sports Trophy, an accolade for the best sporting unit with the 1 Div.

8 DComd 1UKXX, Brig Gen Laurentin with CO 6 Regt, Lt Col Richardson deployed on operations. Two 6 Regt soldiers also received 3-star commendations for their efforts.

Brigadier General Jean Laurentin (FRA) the Deputy Commander 1st

Teamwork The entire Army downed tools and focused on what really matters, looking after our people. After a regimental brief and teamwork-based PT, the entire Regt broke out into small focus groups to discuss a variety of important issues. A very constructive day was had by all.

8 Capt Lewis Taylor (600 Sqn) was part of the Gold medal winning Army Alpine team

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7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COTTESMORE CO: Lt Col D Groce MBE • Adjt: Capt D Smith • RSM: WO1 D Todd It has been a busy period for 7 Regiment RLC, with a number of sporting events and achievements balanced against ongoing commitments to operations and exercises both overseas and in the UK. The Regt has seen individual excellence across boxing and fencing and team participation and success in football and rugby.

Alongside this, as well as being deployed on MACA in support of the Scottish Ambulance Service, 7 Regt has been reassigned within 102 Bde in the recent Integrated Review and will move to Abingdon in 2023, which will prove both a challenge but also a tremendous opportunity.

Boxing The Regimental Inter-Sqn boxing was rescheduled due to deployment on the MACA task and will now be held in March. In Army Boxing the Regt has a number of success stories. Cpl Cocker of 617 (HQ) Sqn, was selected to coach the Army Boxing Team and in Dec 21 appeared on the BBC whilst coaching the team through the semi-finals and final of the Senior Development Championships, England Boxing. Pte Karau of 68 Sqn boxed for the team in the featherweight category.

Fencing LCpl Noyes, 617 (HQ) Sqn, represented the Army in the 2021 Inter-Service fencing competition at RAF Cosford in Nov 21. He had a strong individual showing and beat all other RLC athletes in the elimination rounds which resulted in him being crowned the Corps champion for 2021. A fantastic effort from a superb soldier.

Rugby The 7 Regt Rugby team has been reinvigorated post-COVID and attended a number of competitions.

Most recently it ran away as the overall Plate winners at the Midland Rugby Sevens Touch Competition 46

2021. A great result for a newly-formed team. The team has also stepped up its community engagement, hosting Wakefield Trinity Ladies Rugby League for a training session. They were put through their paces physically by our PTIs and conducted a number of other tasks to work on their teamwork and cohesion.

Football The Men’s team followed up its success in the Army Cup by making it to the Army Super Cup Final. But the really good regimental football news story is the emergence of a Women’s team for the first time in the Regt’s history. The team entered the Inter-Service Sevens League, with the best performance, a convincing 2-1 victory over RAF Waddington. The team captain, Cpl Howlett, secured the win with a 35-yard screamer. The team is also aiming to go on tour to Poland later

8 Northampton Town FC conducting some teambuilding exercises

8 7 RLC Ladies’ Football team first game! this year. In terms of community engagement, the football manager, WO2 (RQMS) Blackburn, hosted Northampton Town FC at Kendrew Bks. During the visit, 7 Regt coaching staff and PTIs put the team through its paces in a pre-season training camp.

CO’s sports competition 7 Regt takes physical fitness and competition seriously and uses sport as a vehicle to challenge the soldiers. This spring the Regt is running a CO’s sports competition, which is inter-sqn and will run over a series of events. The first two events were tug of war (won by 68 Sqn) and Volleyball (won by 617 (HQ) Sqn). It’s all to play for with a number of events yet to come and the winning sqn being the Sqn with the most total wins in all the events by the end.

Other Alongside a busy period for Regt’l sport, the Regt has maintained usual commitments. Notably deploying 68 Sqn to Scotland to assist the Scottish Ambulance Service. The future of the Regt will be an exciting challenge as it moves into 2023. The Regt will hand over the LBSG commitment to 6 Regt RLC, relocate to Abingdon and retrain the officers and soldiers to set up for success in the new role.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULLAVINGTON CO: Lt Col A Bhundia • Adjt: Capt L Brooks • RSM: WO1 P Douglass In the build-up to the Christmas leave period, 9 Regiment RLC has remained largely committed to both operations and exercises, with service personnel deploying on Op PITTING, the closedown of Op CATTALO and MACA support as well as deploying on and supporting numerous UK based exercises.

90 Headquarters Squadron Autumn saw most of 90 Sqn deploy in a Real-Life Support Role on Ex IRON VIPER 21. This also gave the new CO an opportunity to test and adjust OF4 TEG HQ in order to conduct future planning and prep for Ex DEFENDER 22 and beyond. 90 Sqn and the RSM organised and ran the inter-ranks Christmas football matches which saw the JNCOs beat the Ptes 3-2 and the Officers narrowly lose out to the WO and SNCOs 1-0.

66 Fuel and General Transport Squadron 66 Sqn has been maintaining a high tempo of activity throughout the winter period. Deploying on exercise to Ardersier Port in Inverness, the Sqn’s Petroleum Operators worked alongside their partnered unit 152 Regiment RLC and trained in their key function of establishing Bulk Fuel Installations and delivering 300,000 litres of fuel to exercising troops. Shortly after the petroleum operators had cemented their trade training, they deployed on Ex FINAL FLOW to support the training of the new Petroleum Officers in their final certification exercise. The Sqn has also continued to provide MACA support, driving ambulances to relieve pandemic demand as well as provide examiners to test civilian LGV drivers needed to re-enforce the civilian workforce. 66 Sqn is now preparing to deploy on a CT Alpha/Bravo exercise to maintain currency in soldiering, prior to the planned deployment on Ex DEFENDER 22 in support of NATO forces in Europe.

94 Sqn QOGLR Despite overseas and UK commitments, 94 Sqn still managed to partake in this year’s RLC Squash Championships. After a lengthy time away from the sport due to COVID, it was a happy moment for all the players to be reunited with the squash court. In a very short space of time, a new team was formed, encouraging novice players to take up the sport.

The team played well taking part in RLC and Midland Championships, winning the RLC plate and winning the Major Unit UK Midlands Championship. 94 Sqn personnel also formed part of the unit Volleyball team which won silver at the RLC Championship. As a Gurkha unit 94 Sqn also celebrated Dashain. This event was hugely successful and was great way to improve Kaida and team cohesion.

More recently the Sqn has assisted with the Ex IRON VIPER 21 operating the SPOE/D and held

8 The TEG HQ was tested on Ex IRON VIPER

8 94 Sqn's squash team won The RLC Plate Sqn soldier outings into Winchester to see the Gurkha museum.

Following a much-needed winter leave, the Sqn will deploy to Brecon for CT Alpha/Bravo and DEFENDER 22 preparation.

Panthers Rugby It’s been busy few months for the Panthers Rugby team. After another fantastic win in November against 8 REME (62-10) the team looked forward to the next match against its nemesis, 12 Regt RA. Huge congratulations go to LCpl Vasuitoga and Army XV team-mate Pte Kotobalavu - both 84 MS Sqn - who have earnt a three-month selection with Castleford Tigers and a training contract the Dragons RFU respectively. Pte Kotobalavu, alongside SSgt Groves-Smith AGC(SPS) and Cpl Gormley (66 Sqn), also wore the Rugby for Heroes shirt at Gloucester stadium against a combined UK Armed Forces team. An amazingly fast game with legendary players such as Mike Tindall, Delon Armitage and Jordan Crane. All ticket sales were donated to the charity which helps service leavers transition to civilian life. The Regt also has six players in the Corps Side. In the recent match against the Royal Artillery, The RLC ran out 50-10 winners.

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10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment ALDERSHOT COMMANDER: Lt Col G R Sugdon • Adjt: Capt R Melhuish • RSM: WO1 M Rana Upon returning from a delayed but well-deserved summer leave, 10 QOGLR has thrown itself straight into the Nepali festive season. This saw the Regiment celebrate both Dashain and Tihar.

Dashain is the 15-day festival which is a key time for families to reunite, exchange gifts and give blessings. The Regt held events on four of the most significant days.

One such day is Kalaratri, which saw members of the Regt and their families come together for Bada Khana (supper) followed by a magnificent cultural entertainment show. Performers came from across the Regt and the Regimental Family to conduct comedy sketches and cultural dances, including the renowned Khukri dance, as well as many other entertainment displays.

Tihar is the five-day festival which celebrates significant religious symbols, such as the cow, which is sacred in Hinduism and symbolic of wealth. On this day the Regt hosted a large feast prepared by the QOGLR wives and played a series of games to bring luck and prosperity in the year ahead.

Whilst, 10 QOGLR has been busy celebrating key cultural festivities, it hasn’t stopped the Regt deploying personnel on several exercises; either for our own training or in support of others. Exercise IRON

VIPER, the annual Brigade exercise on SPTA validated both 27 Regt RLC and 3 Regt RLC. 10 QOGLR deployed Observer Mentors to support their development and provided Task Force Hannibal, the enemy component of the exercise.

It provided an excellent opportunity for QOGLR to learn key lessons in preparation for the 10 QOGLR regimental exercise in early 2022.

It goes without saying 10 QOGLR has as always been heavily involved with sports throughout

8 QOGLR are crowned RLC Vollyball champions this period. The Regt deployed a team to Norway to conduct alpine ski training under the direction of Lt Rebecca Old. The Regt has also taken part in several competitions such as swimming, where SSgt Carr finished second in his category, earning a silver medal.

The Regt also won the RLC Volleyball Championship and the RLC Badminton Championship for the third year in a row; with several members of the Regt winning their respective categories, including Pte Bishal Babu Khadks, who won beat the Army champion to win the singles.

At the end of 2021, the Regt was very proud to celebrate that three of its serving personnel had been included in the New Year’s Honours List. SSgt Sergeant Yambahadur Gurung was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal whilst both Major Emerson Hanley and SSgt Santosh Rai were awarded GOC 2* Commendations.

8 It's three RLC Badminton championships in a row

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11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Regiment RLC DIDCOT CO: Lt Col M Miller • Adjt: Capt R Dunbar • RSM: WO1 S Soper Members of 11 EOD & Search Regiment RLC have had some outstanding recent sporting achievements, all of which has been achieved whilst the Regt has continued to provide its ‘no fail’ operational outputs of EOD and Search in the UK and worldwide ammunition technical support.

In addition to individual sporting achievements, Vauxhall Barracks, Didcot, home to the Regimental Headquarters and 421 EOD & Search Squadron, is now the proud owner of a bespoke Strength and Conditioning Facility. The facility was opened in November 2021 by GOC Regional Command, Maj Gen David Eastman, who participated in the inaugural PT session. The facility is a vast improvement on what was previously available on site and is a much needed and long anticipated upgrade to the lived experience. Wasting no time in making use of the new facility, members of the Regt have participated in the British Army Warrior Fitness (BAWF) competitions, a test of various components of fitness, ranging from power to aerobic capacity.

The team not only put in a fantastically strong performance but also made the most of the opportunity to introduce new athletes to the sport.

There has also been much delight with the return of Corps training camps and there has been regimental participation in the recent RLC Basketball and RLC Tennis disciplines with a high expectation for the upcoming 2022 season. The Regt is proud to have a number of elite athletes that have achieved recent Corps and Army successes.

Army Skiing Championships – Cpl Critchley 621 Sqn’s very own Cpl Critchley AGC (SPS), has had an outstanding showing in the recent Army Skiing Championships. The prestigious event took place in Serre Chevalier, France and she

8 The inaugural PT session - such trepidation team event and coming sixth overall for the ladies’ competition.

8 The stalwart Sgt Parkinson was able to take first in the ladies’ Giant Slalom, second in the Downhill and second in the Super Giant Slalom, coming second overall in the ladies’ competition.

She was subsequently selected for the Army Ski Team that went on to compete in Méribel at the Inter-Services Snow Sports Competition (ISSSC) where she contributed to the Army Ladies’ team winning Gold in the downhill

Army Rugby Team – Sgt Parkins Sgt Parkins, also from 621 Sqn, continues to be a stalwart of the Corps, Army and UK Armed Forces rugby teams and is currently in the build-up phase for the Army’s upcoming Inter-Services campaign, which will culminate in the legendary Army vs Navy match at Twickenham Stadium in May; an achievement he has been extremely proud of and an event that is keenly awaited due to the cancellations in the last two years.

Army Sports Car Racing (ASCR) Cpl Gillett Cpl Gillett from 321 Sqn has been actively involved in the ASCR which is one of the many branches of the motorsport discipline available in the Army. She is currently performing the role of the team photographer and member of the pit crew and was able to support the team’s biggest highlight in 2021 by winning the Class B category in the Birkett six-hour relay race. She is looking forward to graduating to the driver’s seat this year and attend the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium.

The Regt now looks forward to many more sporting successes in the coming year!

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13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER CO: Lt Col R Edwards • Adjt: Capt O Todd • RSM: WO1 G Patterson The last quarter has been a varied and busy period for 13 Air Assault Support Regiment. With Op PITTING recovery complete, the Regt has re-focused on training, maintaining very high readiness as well as deploying personnel on exercises and operations.

Ops ELGIN and ALLIED SOLACE A number of personnel from 13 AASR deployed to Kosovo with 1 RGR BG on Op ELGIN. Their role was to sustain the BG as it supported NATO’s ‘KFOR’ to maintain peace and security in the region. The team deployed all over Kosovo to support company groups from 1 RGR who were rotating through various training and demonstration serials. The situation rapidly changed for the 1 RGR BG who were re-tasked onto Operation ALLIED SOLACE; a mission to support the processing and relocation of NATO Afghan employees evacuated from Kabul.

The 13 AASR troops, accustomed to dealing with rapidly changing situations, were critical to developing the Op ALLIED SOLACE sustainment plan. This was a highly testing and rewarding medal earning deployment for all the 13 AASR team.

Ex FALCONS AMARANTE 21 During Nov 21, the 63 Sqn CSS Gp, which included a platoon from 8 Fd Coy and personnel from 47 AD Sqn, deployed to France on Ex FALCONS AMARANTE 21. On this multinational brigade level FTX, the Sqn Gp was tasked to sustain 2 PARA BG and two BGs from the French 11th Brigade Parachutiste.

The Sqn Gp enabled the Bde deployment and recovery by road, air and rail, over 1,600km to the south of France, by establishing and delivering five different support nodes, including three Convoy Support Centres and two Railheads. On the FTX, the Sqn Gp sustained all BGs with Airborne Tp and CS Tp executing night-time DPs and HUSL resupply with the 50

47 AD Det observing French AD operating procedures.

The RLC Swimming Championships A team selected from across 13 AASR competed in the RLC Swimming Championships. The team’s hard work was rewarded with a strong performance on the day; winning the overall championship. There were outstanding performances from Pte Morrin - winning 50m Backstroke and 50m Freestyle, Lt Firth winning 100m IM and 50m fly and Capt Allinson, who won the 100m freestyle.

8 13 AASR Swim Team

season and hone their alpine skills.

With two weeks of hard training, the team delivered great results, finishing third in the giant slalom and Cpl Russell finishing third out of 93 racers. They look forward to building on their success in early 2022.

With an exceptionally busy 2021 drawing to a close, 13 AASR is already looking forward to the challenges of 2022, including very high readiness and major overseas exercises.

Visits to Colchester 16 Air Assault BCT and 13 AASR hosted the Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Sir Ben Key KCB CBE and the Secretary of State for Defence, Rt Hon Ben Wallace. They heard first-hand accounts of the incredible personal experiences on Op PITTING, as well as discussing the Regt’s role on the end to end supply chain on the operation and the future Integrated Review capabilities and opportunities.

Ex KNEES BEND Soldiers and officers from across 13 AASR deployed to Norway on EX KNEES BEND to begin the ski

8 Chief of Joint Operations Vice Admiral Sir Ben Key

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17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTHAMPTON CO: Lt Col V Crompton MBE • Adjt: Capt N Brown • RSM: WO1 B Sweeney

17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC has returned from the winter leave period recharged and ready to tackle a diverse range of tasks lined up for 2022. Elements of the Regt will deploy on Ex DEFENDER 22 as part of the Theatre Entry Group, based in two European ports whilst the remainder will continue to operate the SMC, as well as deploying on several Port Task Groups across the globe.

The Unit is also turning its attention to support the 40th Anniversary of the Falklands conflict; a huge variety of events are being planned to mark this poignant occasion.

53 Enabling and Headquarters Squadron Over the previous six months, 53 Sqn has been maintaining a high pace life within the Regt. Continuing to support shipping activities, 104 Bde trawls, IFAC commitments, a deployment onto Ex LION STAR 5 (EX LS5) to achieve TL CHARLIE and latterly it delivered a highly successful driver training exercise Ex SEAHORSE INCREMENTUM (Ex SI) - on behalf of 104 Bde. The 104 Bde driver concentration exercise was held at Avon Compound, Salisbury Plain Training Area. This comprehensive training package was designed to take our Combat Logisticians one step further in their employment groups, training them to become qualified driver/operators. During their training they were taught GS vehicle conversion and tactical vehicle movements; in addition they

8 Ex Seahorse Incrementum

were provided with MAN SV 15T conversion and EPLS operator courses. The exercise was conducted over six weeks, pulling instructors from across the Bde to deliver a successful driver training exercise, delivering some 176 training spaces for our junior soldiers. During the GS vehicle and tactical phase the students were taught how to maintain their vehicles and equipment, drive their vehicles safely cross country, whilst tackling various obstacles, to moving into tactical locations both by day and by night; including being able to carry out camouflage and concealment procedures.

Looking ahead, the Sqn and the Driver Training Wing will deliver another iteration of Ex SI during the first half of 2022. The Sqn will refine its soldering skills during Ex SEAHORSE RISING in Feb 22 and will then switch its attention to enabling the Regt’s commitment to Ex DEFENDER 22.

52 Port Squadron 52 Sqn was incredibly busy over late 2021 with a significant number of deployments. Ex KHANJAR

OMAN saw a gang deploy in support of a joint forces exercise with 4th Inf Bde and Omani Forces; while Op ELGIN saw a gang deploy in support of 1 RGR out to Albania. A little closer to home, a Mexeflote crew, a gang of Port Operators and members of the dive team deployed on Ex AUSTERE CRUSADER in Scotland, supporting 39 Engineer Regiment in their annual fuels exercise.

It’s not only outward support the Sqn has been focused on over this period. In anticipation of Ex DEFENDER next year, the Sqn began preparations with a MATTs camp. This ensured that over 100 personnel are fully prepared for the events in 2022. This culminated in a Sqn BBQ, followed by a visit to the RLC Museum the next day. Troops were split into five groups and tasked with researching one of the five battle honours. They then presented their findings to the OC, SSM and the remainder of the Sqn. The Sqn has also had a significant amount of sporting success. LCpl Redford was shortlisted for the Olympic Clay Pidgeon Shooting Development Team and LCpl Jenkinson and Cpl Hicken were selected to play Army level rugby.

Looking forward, the Sqn has a lot on the horizon, with troops deploying on Ex PINESTICK, Ex COLD RESPONSE 22, Ex DEFENDER 22 and Ex AUSTERE WOLF to name but a few.

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25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LECONFIELD CO: Lt Col R Amor • Adjt: Capt C Woods • RSM: WO1 T Rennie Over the last few months 25 Regiment RLC has been involved in several sporting events, delivered internal training and has conducted a review of the Continuation Training for the Private soldiers as they prepare to join the Field Army.

Lt Watts of 109 Squadron led a mixed team of NCOs from the Regt to Hemsedal, Norway for a three-week Ski training camp, culminating in single competition races of Slalom and Giant Slalom.

Many of the NCOs who took part in this event were novices and so for them it was a real ‘Zero to Hero’ event. During the initial two weeks of skiing, and falling over, the team trained and prepared for the competitions. Cpl Marsh performed very well, being one of the very few novices who completed his race. Cpl Bolton however excelled by coming second in the Female Slalom and fourth in the Giant Slalom.

Capt Blackwood and Cpl Ranatora took the 25 Regt Rugby team - made up of both Permanent Staff and Private soldiers under training - out to the East Midlands Touch Rugby Sevens Tournament, hosted by The Queen’s Dragoon

8 For some of the novices who attended ski training in Norway, it proved to be a ‘Zero to Hero’ event

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Guards. The tournament saw them compete against a large number of more experienced teams from across the Army. While facing some very tough and experienced opposition from the likes of 7 Regiment RLC and The Royal Anglian Regiment, they performed very well for a team brought together only weeks before and finalised the week of the tournament. The 25 Regt team finished the tournament as runners up for the Plate. A good achievement for such a junior team and one that will hopefully lead to these players getting involved in Army sports and enjoying all it has to offer in the future.

The Regt has also been putting a lot of hard work into revamping the Continuation Training programme.

This has been headed up by the Regimental Training Wing and was introduced throughout January and February 2022. It is a much more comprehensive structure and seeks

8 Finishing runners up in the Plate at the East Midlands Touch Rugby Sevens Tournament was a great achievement for the Regt’s newly formed team

to build on the training they have received at Basic Training, while expanding their knowledge of The RLC and how the Corps conducts its business while on operations across the various trades.

25 Regt Permanent Staff have also developed their own training.

Building on the success of previous Continuous Professional Development days they committed a large portion of the Regt to a mental health at work first aid course. This course proved a valuable addition to the training already conducted and builds on the skills of providing critical Duty of Care roles. As a training establishment with such a large population, it is of course vital that those who work here are not only able to support the training population but also each other.

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27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col D J Fisher MBE • Adjt: Capt A Heathwaite • RSM: WO1 R Simpson The 27 Regiment RLC athletics team participated in the RLC Athletics competition and the South East Athletics Army competition in May. The 27 Regt Ladies team put up a strong performance, resulting in a well-earned second place. The following athletes were chosen to represent at Corps level: Pte Naqasima – Long Jump and Triple Jump, Pte Rismay – Discus, Pte Robson – Stringer and 400m Hurdles, Pte Francis – 400m and LCpl Hughes – Hammer. It was a really strong performance by all and an amazing display of sportsmanship from athletes who entered events they haven’t competed in before.

The re-established regimental hockey team, following the enforced COVID-19 break, brought new players into the sport. The Regt held training sessions throughout Wednesday afternoon sports periods in the run up to the Bari Cup in Sep 21. This provided the basic training for those who were new to the sport. The Bari Cup proved to be the perfect setting for the Regt’s new team and the team performed to a high standard throughout, despite unfortunately losing the cup to 29 Regt!

Following the Bari Cup, the Regiment hockey team competed in the UK South Inter-Unit Hockey League to contribute to the Army Hockey Cup. Each month the Regt encourages new players to participate in the sport, resulting in a comfortably top half position in the league. With new players being recognised and enjoying the sport it looks like a promising year for the 27 Regt hockey team with Lt Parry, SSgt Miles and Cpl Clark going on to represent The RLC. The Regimental Alpine Ski Team participated in Ex KNEES BEND in Norway as preparation for the Army Qualifying Divisions on Ex SPARTAN HIKE and Ex RLC SKI. The Alpine Ski Team was formed of Lt Parry, SSgt Edris, Cpl Sheriff and Cpl Whitchurch; with LCpl

Longhurst and Pte Reid participating as novices. All with previous skiing experience, the team thoroughly enjoyed the training offered by UNIQ Snowsports, despite the temperature reaching -21°! The training camp saw skiers develop at different levels, from SSgt Edris who has previously competed for The RLC, to novices who have never experienced ski racing. All refined the skills required to get the fastest race times.

The Regiment goes from strength to strength on the rugby front, having re-establishing the Regimental team. There are regularly in excess of 25 players turning up on a Wednesday afternoon. On the playing front, the

8 Pte Francis leading the 400m

8 RLC Athletics Championships

Regiment has produced some outstanding results culminating in the final game against KRH, which the Regt won 34-12. The new year looks promising with more players being recognised and going on to represent Corps teams in both fifteens and sevens.

Capt Mal Roberts has finally taken charge of his first competitive match as the Head Coach of the Army Senior first team. This is the first occasion that an individual from the Corps or Forming Corps has held this prestigious appointment. Appointed in May 20 and having conducted an open trial in Oct 21 where in excess of 90 people took part, he finally prepared his side to take on Esher, and ran out the 69-21 winners.

Finally, the Regimental football team has gone from strength to strength and has the ability to field two teams. Several new players have been added to the strength of the squad, with some showing potential to play at Corps level in the future. The team is currently competing in the league, Army and league cup competitions, allowing for plenty of opportunities for the players be competitive and improve their skillsets. Mention should go to Capt Mo Sabo, who represented the Combined Services for the first time this season.

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29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTH CERNEY CO: Lt Col J Symons • Adjt: Capt G Garner • RSM: WO1 A Burrell Despite the many challenges presented over the last few years, 29 Regiment RLC’s Centurion Teams have continued to represent the Regt across the sporting world.

Below are examples of a few selected sports from across the Regiment, but there have been fantastic achievements from individuals throughout.

Football With a record of 11 wins and only one loss from 15 games played, the 29 Regt football team may be heading for victory. This consistent performance has resulted in it sitting second in the FA Southern League Central Division; four points behind the leaders, with a game in hand. These performances are not limited to league football as the Regt has also had success in the Army Challenge Cup. Beating 27 Regt RLC 4-0 in in the third round, the team now faces 1 Mercian for a place in the quarter finals.

Table Tennis The recently formed Centurion Table Tennis team has really made an impact. The team is already participating in the British Army Championship. In Oct 21, a team of 10 players led by Capt Limbu participated in the Championships in Aldershot. Coming home with a runners-up trophy at the Plate Championship (Intermediate level), the team now looks to compete in the British Army Table Tennis Championship in February 2022.

Badminton Badminton team success! With a Wednesday afternoon frequently seeing upwards of 25 people turning up, the team has already successfully completed its first aim and has fielded the largest team at the RLC Inter-Unit Championships.

With 22 players representing the Regt, they achieved seven podium finishes. Following the success in Oct, 14 members of the team moved to November’s Open Army Championships. Unable to resist, the team outperformed once again, reaching the podium seven times. Pte Gurung and Maj Shephard have obtained Army titles in the veterans and mixed doubles respectively. Further to this a title that has not been held by a Corps team, the ladies’ team broke decades of tradition and won the Ladies’ Cup. The team now looks forward to representing the Corps at the inter Corps competition, with one player moving to represent the Army UKAF team. A fantastic achievement by all involved.

8 With 11 wins and one loss from its last 15 games the 29 Regt football team is eyeing victory

Equestrian Disco Diva and Maj Darke have been achieving all round, particularly in their speciality, Dressage to Music. With limited build up the pair successfully qualified for the Petplan Equine Area Festivals Summer Championships and placed seventh of 30 riders. Already on to the next competition, they competed in the three-day competition at Sheepgate Equestrian Championship, coming home with four wins and a second place, ensuring qualification for the semi-finals at elementary. Their final competition of the year was at Bury Farm Equestrian Village and they qualified for the semi-finals at Medium. The duo is now preparing for the semi-finals with hopes of placing in the top ten.

Pistol Shooting Pte Bromfield has impressed all round currently ranking as the number one Rapid Fire Pistol shooter for Wales and is ranked 10th for 10m air rifle. These remarkable results have now qualified him to represent Wales in the upcoming Commonwealth Shooting Federation Competition, in line with his training aspiration to compete at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

8 The Badminton team has enjoyed a successful season

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The Defence EOD, Munitions and Search Training Regt BICESTER CO: Lt Col M Long QGM • Adjt: Capt C Parsons • RSM: WO1 Tom Kowalewski RE DEMS Training Regiment is recognised world-wide as a centre of excellence. Every year countries from around the world send their EOD and Search operators to learn from its instructors. This also provides an excellent opportunity to understand the threat picture in different countries and understand how devices are being dealt with on the front line.

Following a long break due to COVID-19, DEMS is finally starting to welcome international students back.

IEDD Squadron IEDD Sqn welcomed students from Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Oman & Tunisia on to the International IEDD course held at DEMS Kineton from 11-29 Oct 21. The course is designed for Officers and SNCOs who already have a pre-existing knowledge in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). The students attending the course had a varying degree of experience, ranging from some only attending a basic IEDD course to others having conducted multiple deployments as an Operator in some of the most challenging environments. This created a great opportunity not only for the instructors at DEMS to pass on their experience and knowledge gained conducting tasks within the UK and oversees but also allowing the students to share their experiences and differing approaches.

8 CMD Personnel at the Humanitarian Demining School in Kenya

Italian exchange As part of the reciprocal UK-ITA exchange programme, CMD Squadron welcomed Captain Carmine Saulino from the Centro Di Eccellenza C-IED, based in Rome, Italy. The purpose of the visit was to share knowledge and instructional techniques with a greater focus on Mines and Booby Traps (M&BT) and instructional methods, models and tools (MMT).

The Kenyan Humanitarian Peace Support School From the 4-11 Dec 21 members of CMD Sqn conducted a visit to the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS) in Nairobi Kenya.

The visit was conducted to understand the training and mentoring opportunities for DEMS Trg Regt to help support the British Peace Support and training (Africa) BPST (A) and the HPSS. The schools aim is to teach CIED, WIT, Search, CMD and IEDD to Sub Sahara African countries. They also help run pre deployment training to neighbouring countries before they deploy on missions within their country. During the week-long visit, the team were involved in training design led by the UN for the CMD course to ensure it met the UNMAS standard. The school will be the first school to be UNMAS accredited not only in Africa but the world.

Search Squadron 2021 saw the return of Search Squadron’s International courses and a chance for many instructors to

8 IEDD Sqn trainer provides feedback to an overseas student prior to approaching a device

put their Training International Learners and Trainees qualification to use for the first time. Firstly, the five-day Ground Sign Awareness Instructor Course was attended by students from Germany, The Netherlands and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with many students opting to stay for the C-IED Co-ordinator Course the following week. This was an excellent opportunity to share operational tracking knowledge and experiences from different forces from around the world and benefitted the training team hugely by expanding our collective awareness.

The C-IED Coordinator Course gave us further opportunity to share KSE, with all students delivering informative (and often hilarious) “country briefs”, further improving the knowledge of the training team. All students were keen to return to their own nations and share their new found life-saving knowledge.

Lastly, the three-week International Search Advisor course saw an eclectic mix of students from Sri Lanka, Maldives, Germany and Kazakhstan. The students were asked to deliver a brief introduction. Immediately, we realised the language barrier would prove challenging.

All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable and informative experience was had by both students and trainers.

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150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL CO: Lt Col D Aspin • Adjt: Capt B Walters • RSM: WO1 B Stephenson 150 Regiment RLC has a great pedigree when it comes to sport and provides significant opportunities to the members the Regt. Below are some accounts written by the individuals from the Regt on their recent sporting achievements.

WO2 McCoubrey Band Warrant Officer 2021 saw a returning Army team attend the outdoor Tri-Service archery competition hosted by the RAF. After a hard-fought event the Army claimed its first win. The second event witnessed archers representing the Army, Royal Navy and RAF take the opportunity to shoot together in a friendly competition at the National Indoor Championships on 5 Dec. Since 2019, and despite the challenges of the pandemic and a service life, many unknown faces from each Service have taken up the sport. I also attended the first Army-led archery coaching course which was held in Abingdon. The course saw members from all three Services come together with the goal of growing archery. The course will enable more beginner courses to be run by members of the Army Archery Team and Tri-Service teams, throughout the UK and at British Forces’ locations around the world.

2Lt Crabb-LaHei Troop Commander No matter what sport you want to play, the Army has a team for it. I have been rowing for three and a half years and only recently joined the Army Rowing Team. Recently, I rowed for the Army in the British Indoor Rowing Champs. This event was made even more fun as it was on the same weekend as the Regimental Christmas competition in Altcar. All done virtually, I set up my rowing machine in the Altcar gym ready for my races – the first being the most challenging: a 2km sprint. Due to outdoor activities being rained off, the whole of 217 56

Squadron, who were on the weekend, came to support me. It was the perfect environment to go very fast and the support from my Sqn helped me win and set a new British indoor record. I am certain that their encouraging words pushed me that little bit harder. It hurt, but it was worth it.

Throughout the year, the Army Indoor Rowing Team runs a competition where it releases a new rowing challenge each month.

You can join in at any time.

Pte Greening - Driver I have been in the Army Reserve for three years working as a Driver with 218 Squadron. I used to play club rugby and have always challenged myself physically, so the Army Reserve seemed like a natural progression for me, providing an opportunity to make

8 WO2 McCoubrey Tri-Service Archery

8 2Lt Crabb-LaHei setting an new British record new friends and face new challenges. A friend approached me about attending trials for the Army Women's Rugby League. I just laughed and said, ‘I’m retired’. I thought I haven’t played for 10 years having focused on life and my child; but then decided to grasp the opportunity. I attended a training session at Aldershot and was thrilled to be selected and played my first game for the Army the very next day. Unfortunately, we didn’t win, but the support of the other players made me feel incredibly welcome. The season, like all good things, came to an end.

Whilst it was a great one, it also came with heartache. In the Super League South final, we dominated the game and we were seconds from victory, but in the dying seconds the opposition scored. My achievements this season were recognised when I was nominated for ‘Coaches Player of the Year’ and selected for the prestigious UKAF Rugby Team. The team won the Team of the Year Award. My first season has filled me with pride. For me, still being new to Army life, this was a momentous experience to say the least.

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151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CROYDON CO: Lt Col D Taylor • Adjt: Capt T Joyce • RSM: WO1 B Hinton 151 Regiment RLC had an another busy build up to winter leave.

Several exercises and planning remained the key activities for the unit. The Force Preparation Schedule was developed and released to detail up-coming activity and Op TOSCA premobilisation training continues.

Ex TRIDENT LEADER II 29 Oct 21 saw over 60 personnel deploy to Longmoor Training Area to conduct leadership and teamwork orientated tasks. WO2 Poole masterminded the exercise which consisted of four command tasks that were specifically designed to test all levels of communications and leadership styles. Map reading was tested as personnel patrolled throughout the area to reach the variety of stands.

A competitive element was added to ensure team cohesion was enhanced and on the final day, personnel were rewarded with a five-kilometre log race and prizes given to the highest scoring syndicate and to those who displayed outstanding leadership.

Ex TRIDENT TRADE II With several trades offered at 151 Regt, satisfying training for all of them can sometimes be problematic. However, 124 Sqn successfully co-ordinated key activities for all ranks and trades to ensure competencies were up to date. Clerks were able to complete several training serials including a pay presentation, skills update and an information finding exercise.

Combat Medical Technicians were tested on sick parades, multiple casualty scenarios and a presentation on medical history and abbreviations. Communication Specialists concentrated on principles, antenna theory and establishing a CP. The Chefs were tested on the OFCS were they provided food for all exercising troops despite the elements being against them. Drivers were then tested on their loading and

8 Padre Stuart Hull ran a session on spiritual welfare during Ex BYZANTIUM TRIDENT I which dived deep into morality, values and ethics lashing, B3 – B2 lessons and cross-country driving.

Ex BYZANTIUM TRIDENT I Over the period 7 - 9 Jan 22, 240 Sqn conducted Ex BYZANTIUM TRIDENT I - a G1 focussed training weekend supported by SME guest speakers. Over the course of the training, SP were instructed on several topics. Saturday: Physical Health, the new Role Fitness Test & Nutrition (Cpl S Hussein); Spiritual Welfare (Padre Stuart Hull) which dived deep into morality, values and ethics and generated an enlightening discussion amongst the SP present; Life Skills and Welfare (Maj T Finch, LONDIST), which gave a good understanding of all the support available for Regular & Reserve Soldiers serving or ex-services; Diversity & Inclusion (Capt D Gregory) with some good ideas for how 240 Sqn can ensure it maintains and improves an inclusive environment that respects and utilises diversity to ensure the Army can continue to be an attractive career choice for Regulars and Reservists; Mobilisation & Readiness (Capt D Gregory) including the requirements to be ready and available to mobilise, as

well as the critical Reserve consideration of employer awareness, support and approval.

On the Sunday morning concurrent activities were organised with the soldiers.

Undertaking (and all passing) and SCR, whilst the Senior Ranks and Officers were instructed on best practice Appraisal Reviews (Capt D Bashford), the SP regrouped for briefings on general Reserve Admin (Maj A Janaway), much of which was information many SP had not brushed up on in some time, so of great use. External presenters were utilised on the Sunday afternoon, with a Counter Terrorism Protection Officer briefing on terrorism and security awareness, the brief and presentation were very thought-provoking and with SP making mental note of some of the tell-tale signs to look out for and consider in their military and civilian lives. Finally, a pensions brief was supported via Zoom by Denis Mulholland, of Denis Mulholland Financial Solutions Ltd, which highlighted that there are number of MOD Pension schemes (75/05/15), and it came to light that some 240 Sqn SP could potentially be able to apply for some of the 05 scheme benefits.

8 151RLC Chefs’ field catering skills were tested on Ex TRIDENT TRADE II

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152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST CO: Lt Col C Sykes • Adjt: Capt A Gordon • RSM: WO1 G Furlong In the closing months of 2021, 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC has succeeded in delivering its outputs, both in support to large scale exercises and to operations.

Despite facing ‘bracing’ Scottish winter weather, the Regt’s personnel have shown they can provide fuel support in all conditions as the Army’s only bespoke fuel regiment.

Ex AUSTERE CRUSADER 152 Regt deployed on Ex AUSTERE CRUSADER, a Theatre Enablement Group exercise. The Regt’s mission was to take over the storage and movement of bulk fuel from ship to shore in Ardersier, Scotland, from 9 Regt RLC. Deployed on the exercise was 400 Fuel Squadron and a composite of 211 and 220 Transport Squadrons.

The planned hand over of the Bulk Fuel Installation (BFI) was interrupted by the Ardersier landowner building a bonfire close to the established BFI and planning to light it as part of their November the 5th celebrations, before the BFI could be decommissioned. This unexpected event allowed 152 to grasp an opportunity to construct their own BFI in Kinloss and provide greater experience for the Transport Sqn as they moved fuel between Ardersier and Kinloss.

Siting, building, commissioning and running a BFI provided a greater training opportunity than 400 Sqn’s Petroleum Operators had expected. They embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and delivered a functioning BFI that was solely run by Reserve personnel.

152 Regt’s Drivers were similarly exercised beyond the level they had expected. Their exercise culminated with a four-day driving task to move 45,000 litres of fuel from Kinloss to Dishforth, before recovering to Cairnryan port for EndEx. Despite the cold weather, austere conditions, and facing constant new tasks, the Regt conducted its duties with professionalism and enthusiasm.

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8 152 Regt at the operational BFI

8 Building the BFI

Op RESCRIPT 152 Regt was involved in the MACA support to the Scottish Ambulance Service. Pte McKeown deployed over Oct – Nov 22, providing PCR testing at Mobile Testing Units across the Central Scotland Belt, as part of a four-man team. He deployed in all weather conditions and interacted directly with the general public to deliver PCR testing whilst supporting MTU sites in Helensburgh and Falkirk.

Football The Regt has not been solely focussed on exercise and operational output. The Regt has a long-standing history of footballing excellence. This was continued this year when the team retained the Army Reserve Sixes Football Cup, narrowly defeating 6 RIFLES 3 – 2 in a ferociously fought competition.

8 The Army Reserve Sixes Football Cup

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154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DUNFERMLINE CO: Lt Col S Johnson MBE • Adjt: Capt F Blair • RSM: WO1 W Marquis

Ex IRON VIPER was 154 (Scottish) Regiment’s biggest task during the autumn period, giving the Regt the opportunity to practice its current role of third-line logistics and to work closely with its partnered unit, 27 Regt RLC, supported by soldiers from 151 and 157 Regts.

In total, the Reserve Component was made up of 43 people. The exercise was formed to simulate the creation of a logistics supply chain in theatre. RSOI was conducted at Abingdon before conducting a road move to Nescliffe, which was to become the Joint Supply Area. Eventually, the Regt was tasked to begin moving supplies to the Divisional Support Area, followed by transport loops to the Brigade Support Groups on Salisbury Plain.

Pre-deployment training included lessons about the Defence Logistics Laydown. This was a good opportunity for the soldiers to see this in operation and understand the scale of it. Usually on reserve

training exercises, there are no suppliers, bulk fuel installations, USTs and attached REME. This was a good opportunity to see how the process of getting loaded, re-fuelled, recovered and repaired (if necessary) works whilst deployed.

Ex IRON VIPER also had actors throughout the exercise who played roles of anything between friendly civilian farmers, to aggressors, which again is something that rarely happens during reserve training. This provided a degree of realism and the soldiers got first-hand experience of reacting to these in an appropriate manner. There was also frequent indirect fire and small arms fire, which tested the soldiers’ defensive skills. These skills and drills are likely to become a more prominent part of training, due to the Regt's re-rolling as a Close Support Logistics Regiment by 2023.

Ex IRON VIPER was the last camp for SSgt Bleakly, SSgt Morris and Sgt Clark. The OC of 221 Squadron is also moving on to a

8 Ex IRON VIPER was the biggest task of the autumn period local UOTC. The Regt wishes them all the very best of luck with their future ventures and would like to thank them for their contributions to 154 Regiment.

The Regt also entered a combined team into Ex AUTUMN LEAVES (British Army Motorsports Association night navigation rally).

The team (Maj Urquhart, Lt Westland AGC RMP, SSgt Morris, Cfn Thomson, Cpl Livingstone and Pte Hunter) won first Overall Crew, first Team, first Military Green Fleet crew and first Army crew between them.

Further to this sporting success, the Regt also sent a team to Ex KNEES BEND in Norway. It was a great opportunity for the team to train together again and hopefully build up skills for future Divisional and Army championships. The team had a very successful few weeks and they were awarded best female (Lt Whyte), best junior (Pte Leslie) and overall, the team finished in third place.

In addition to this, the Regt also hosted the Royal Gun Salute at Stirling Castle in November to mark the birthday of HRH The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay. Brig Meredith (DCG 3 UK Division) joined us as the Reviewing Officer, and 5th Regiment Royal Artillery (The Yorkshire Gunners) provided the firing party.

8 The 154 Regt Ex KNEES BEND Team in Norway

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156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL CO: Lt Col T Steed • Adjt: Capt A Maclaverty • RSM: WO1 R Thomas 156 Regiment RLC has continued its pace of activity in the last quarter of 2021, leading towards the well-earned Christmas stand down period, with a myriad of activities. They included: the annual Regimental Military Skills Competition; various BCS and ACMT weekends; recruitment events within the NW; the Liverpool Remembrance weekend; success for the Regimental football team; various Lord Lieutenant award ceremonies and the hand over to Lt Col Trevor Steed as Commanding Officer 156 Regiment RLC from Lt Col Kevin Haigh on Monday 1 Nov 21.

Football The Regimental football team has been active during the off season and has entered a variety of events in order to keep refine and hone the skills of the team in preparation for the 2022 Army Cup. Firstly, the team participated in the Remembrance five-a-side competition hosted by Everton Football club on 9 Nov 21 and after winning all six games the team won the event. The team then entered into the two-day Army 6’s competition in Grantham over 27-28 Nov 21. 156 Regt won the group on Saturday but eventually lost in the semi-final on Sunday.

Chalker Cup 2021 The Chalker Cup is an annual event held by 156 Regt which aims to deliver a professional, challenging and all-inclusive competition that

develops teamwork and tests the leadership of officers and soldiers, whilst promoting Regt’l ethos. In 2021, the competition comprised of a variety of stands, which had both a military and leadership element and included: section attacks, an observation stand, an obstacle course, Scorpion air rifles, casualty extraction, vehicle handling and clay pigeon shoots. The event was visited by the Comd 101 Log Bde and the Bde SM. The event was hard fought but eventually won by 381 Sqn, who retain the cup for another year.

Remembrance week Remembrance Parades within Liverpool are notoriously large and well-supported events. However, due to COVID the city saw a slightly more subdued schedule of events. With CO and RSM 156 Regt RLC being CETF Commanders for the NW AOR, the co-ordination of the military support to these Remembrance Parades sits firmly with 156 Regt. On Thursday 11 Nov 21, the CO and RSM laid a wreath during a Remembrance Service staged at the Liverpool Cenotaph. They were joined by other serving personnel, cadets, veterans and other local businesses, as well as a flotilla of vessels which sailed to Liverpool City Centre down the River Mersey.

On Sunday 14 Nov, the CO, with other members of 156 Regt RLC, attended the City’s Annual Service 8 New 156 Regt RLC CO, Lt Col Trevor Steed

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8 2Lt Brown following her RMAS passing out ceremony of Remembrance held in the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral.

Additionally, 160 other members of 156 Regt actively participated in over 14 smaller services across the NW AOR, with many more in attendance at services.

Awards The Lord Lieutenants are the Queen’s representatives in each county and each year awards are presented to personnel who have gone above and beyond. This year, 156 Regt personnel received four awards across Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire. They included OCdt Brown, WO2 Rogan, Mrs Fran Bywater and a unit award for the Regt’s contribution to Op RESCRIPT. Moreover, OCdt Brown has successfully completed her officer training and passed out of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on Saturday 20 Nov 21 as a 2Lt and joins 381 Sqn, Lancaster, as a Troop Commander.

Looking Forward The Regt is now preparing for the 2022 – 23 Forecast of Events which looks challenging and engaging. It includes: AT expeditions, supply technical training weekends, further BCS and ACMT weekends to refine soldiering skills, leadership and development weekends and a two-week ACT, which may incorporate Exercise CERBERUS in Germany, alongside 101 Log Bde and 3 UK Div.

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157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CARDIFF CO: Lt Col B D N Beaumont • Adjt: Capt J Restell • RSM: WO1 R J Bould 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC has continued to provide exciting and relevant training to its Reserve Service Personnel (SP) towards the back end of 2021 and into 2022. Not content with solely being excellent trades men and women, the Regt has also focussed on developing its teams, empowering its JNCOs and thinking outside of the box.

Ex FIGHTING DRAGON, 23-24 Oct 21 Embracing the principle of “Soldier First, Tradesman second”, 224 Sqn took the lead on a Military Skills training weekend on Perham Down Training Area. Sections conducted a mini Cambrian Patrol style activity, where they had to tactically navigate around the training area, remaining undetected by a “hunter force” and successfully find all the checkpoints. The Sqn also had the pleasure of hosting Brig A Dawes CBE, Comd 160 Bde as he observed the Sections conducting their patrols.

Ex LLAWEN DRAGON, 11-12 Dec 21 The festive period saw the Regt deploy to Sennybridge Camp to run a team building competition with results going towards the CO’s Sword Competition. Led by the XO and Permanent Staff from across the Regt, teams had to navigate through a series of mental and physical challenges and accrue points towards the league table. An escape room, STEM challenges, RFT introduction, fancy dress run, musical challenge and many more activities forced teams to think outside of the box and build trust in each other to overcome the problems. OCdt Jones, 398 Sqn, led his team through the contest and said “I enjoyed guiding my team through each of the tasks and thought we showed good teamwork and communication, especially in the physical challenges where we excelled. As an OCdt it was another great opportunity to

learn what it is to be a leader, especially with the CO’s Sword as the prize!”. In a tightly fought competition, 398 Sqn, based in Queensferry, North Wales, were the winners on the day and also took home the CO’s Sword for the efforts throughout the year, congratulations to them.

Ex DRAGONS COMPASS, 15-16 Jan 22 Despite COVID-19 trying its best to hamper the preparations of Potential Officers everywhere, the Regt ran a training weekend

8 580 Sqn conducting the RFT Intro session on Ex LLAWEN DRAGON designed to educate both Regular and Reserve SP from across 101 Bde and 160 Bde, who may be interested in commissioning. This included insights into the types of assessments found at Army Officer Selection Board, Main Board. Ten Direct Entry and three Late Entry Short Service Engagement candidates were put through their paces with cognitive assessments, command tasks, interviews, discussions and planning exercises.

Hopefully we will see many of the attendees as Officers in the near future.

Promotions 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC is delighted to say that four captains from the Unit were successful on the Beige List 22. They were: A/Maj D Jones (QM) as well as Reserve Capts D Clarke (OpsO), A Hamilton (224 Sqn 2IC) and G Thomson (223 Sqn 2IC). Huge congratulations go to all four and the Regt looks forward to seeing what the future holds for them.

8 The CO presenting the CO’s Sword to OCdt Jones of 398 Sqn

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158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH CO: Lt Col R Futter • Adjt: Capt A Hyndman • RSM: WO1 L Hutchinson The Integrated Review Following the Integrated Review, 158 Regiment RLC will re-role and re-equip to become the sole Aviation Support Regiment within The RLC. This new role will see the Regt supporting the UK’s rotary winged aircraft on exercises and operations throughout the world.

The Regt will gain new skills and qualifications to carry out its duties in support of the Aviation Brigade.

All members of 158 Regt are looking forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in delivering this unique operational capability.

25th Anniversary Dinner – Another milestone in an already prestigious history 2021 was a very special year for the Regt. 158 Regt was formed 25 years ago when elements of The Royal Anglian Regiment were re-designated to 158 (Royal Anglian) Transport Regiment (The Royal Logistic Corps). This merge volunteers from two companies of the 5th Battalion, one company of the 6th Battalion and one company of the 7th Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment.

8 Pte Barnett refuels a CST 62

his performance and contribution to regimental effectiveness, he can only be described as a true force multiplier, excelling in all aspects of his professional competence from G4 equipment support and equipment care through to G7 training. Considered one of the best MATTs instructors, he has trained both soldiers under training and experienced trained soldiers, in all manner of military training but especially CBRN and weapons handling.

For his exemplary attitude, constant reassuring presence, and proactive commitment, Sgt Bolden is a worthy recipient of this year’s Steelback Sash.

8 The Steel Back dinner The forming squadrons of 158 Regt have a rich history. The origins of 201 Squadron dates back to the Archibald Douglas Regiment formed in 1687 that later became the 16th of Foot in 1810. 202 and 203 Squadrons also date back to Foot Regiments formed in 1751 (the 12th and 17th respectively).

In 1996, when the Regt re-roled from infantry to transport, it retained the Royal Anglian affiliation in its title and continued to wear the infantry khaki beret. In July 2014 as a result of Army 2020, the affiliation was dropped, the Regt changed to The Royal Logistic Corps beret and re-subordinated under command of 102 Logistic Brigade.

Steelback Sash – Award for the best Sergeant in the Regiment Sgt Bolden was selected for the 158 Regiment RLC Steelback Sash in recognition of his outstanding contribution over the last 12 months.

Sgt Bolden exemplifies what an Army Reserve SNCO should aspire to. His unparalleled commitment to the Army Reserves is noteworthy, but when allied with

Pte Joel Barnett Pte Joel Barnett was mobilised to the Falkland Isles in March 2021, working with the MT section within 748 Troop, part of the RAF MT Flight. His role was to maintain and account for all driver items for all vehicles. In addition, he had to manage the servicing bay and the tyre maintenance store. This involved changing tyres on every wheeled vehicle in the fleet, from Ford Tourneos to the Oshkosh tankers (CST). Pte Barnett also conducted fuel resupply operations of all the ground-based assets at the airfield.

Prior to deployment, Pte Joel Barnett was only qualified as a Class 3 driver. To fulfil his job role he had to complete a familiarisation on the OSKOSH 6 x 6 fuel tanker and pass the ADR in-tanks qualification.

Pte Joel Barnett’s stand-out experience was while driving to West Island to recover a Support Vehicle that had broken down and change a wheel on it. During this detail he was lucky enough to witness a colony of Gentoo Penguins nesting with newly hatched chicks.

Pte Barnett return to his home unit in Leicestershire in mid-January having been deployed for over 10 months.

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159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COVENTRY CO: Lt Col S Dines • Adjt: Capt K Cahill • RSM: WO1 S Muir Ex HALBERD DAWN 21 In October 2021 159 Regiment RLC led the 102 Log Bde exercise – Ex HALBERD DAWN – at Dishforth Airfield. This aimed to develop trade skills and operational readiness by establishing and maintaining a Field Storage Area.

A composite squadron was formed consisting of SHQ, CSUPS Troop and MAT Troop. The exercise was split into two phases, with the first week focussing on in-camp routine and a confirmatory Field Training Exercise (FTX) in week two.

The Unit’s initiative and adaptability was tested before start-ex, when most key pre-deployment stores failed to arrive at the exercise. A swift run-around later and somehow with a still smiling QM, the troops managed to get it all back on track.

The exercise began in earnest, including troops from 158 Regt, 150 Regt and 2Bn REME joining through some night-time storms, which all present will definitely remember!

The FTX phase used the Decisive Action Training Environment (A fictional scenario created by the U.S. Army) to create a realistic situation for troops to train under.

With the Regt ‘together’, this was the ideal time to recognise those troops due formal awards. The Regt had the honour of hosting the Colonel Reserves RLC, Col Wilkinson QVRM, who presented the awards to, among others, WO2s Dunn and Mitchell, two Pioneers with over 65 years’ experience between them. A huge thanks for their years of dedicated service.

Finally, the exercise gave newly commissioned 2Lt Bates a chance to put his command skills gained at RMAS into practice and gain valuable experience, while making immediate impact with his energy and enthusiasm.

Ex DRAGON BARBARIAN SKI Finally able to get back on the slopes, 15 personnel from across the Regt deployed on Ex DRAGON BARBARIAN SKI. After the mandatory COVID related on-the-bus, off-the-bus, the exercise started early one Saturday morning with the team travelling to Flaine; its home for the week. Day one saw the groups split into Ski Foundation 1 (SF1) and Ski Foundation 2 Continuation Training (SF2 CT). SF1 took to the beginners’ slopes to get comfortable on skis, whilst SF2 CT wasted no time heading up the mountain. SF1 initially focussed on controlling speed using the ‘Snow plough’ turns on the shallower slopes but as confidence grew, they began following up the mountain onto more challenging routes. The weather was superb throughout the

8 Personnel were deployed on Op TOSCA for seven months expedition, providing the opportunity for some fantastic views of Mont Blanc. From the top of the mountain, SF1 made their way down the Aujon and Celestine Routes - affectionately nicknamed ‘The James Bond Run’ for its fast and twisting corners. The cohort was encouraged to use technology to track progress and instil friendly competition, Cpl Parker managed an incredible 60 mph to take the top speed over the week! By the end of the week all skiers had passed their qualifications and were allowed to ‘Free Ski’. This allowed for the groups to join and provided time for individuals to challenge themselves. A great time was had by all involved and the planning has already started to run a similar expedition in 2023.

Op TOSCA return The Regt welcomed 24 personnel home from Op TOSCA after a longer than expected tour in Cyprus.

Members took part in a medals parade hosted by 6 Regt RLC at Dishforth, which was an opportunity to say goodbye to new friends after spending the over seven months intertwined as a unit.

The returning troops were back in the UK for Christmas and many enjoyed catching up with their Sqns at functions held across the Regt, sharing their experience of the opportunities available to reservists.

8 159 Regt on Ex DRAGON BARBARIAN SKI

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162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM CO: Lt Col W Steel MBE • Adjt: Capt W Charley • RSM: WO1 J Parker Remembrance Day by LCpl Walsh 282 Sqn As the UK prepared to honour the men and women who sacrificed their freedom so we could have ours, I was asked to assist with the cleaning of a VC war grave (Sgt Michael Murphy VC) located in Darlington, in preparation to lay a wreath on Armistice Day. Of course I didn’t hesitate to be part of such a task at such a poignant moment in the year. Being an Army Reservist, you join a world-renowned organisation that’s about giving something back to our country and being able to give something back in such a way that honours service men and women of the past; whilst learning about our fallen comrades’ history is something that I can now say I have been privileged enough to do. To have the opportunity to ensure that their history is not forgotten is something I can be very proud of and laying a wreath meant that they can continue to be remembered and I would not hesitate to be part of something like this again.

Ex MUDMASTER by WO1 Weston 279 Sqn Late in 2021, 162 Regiment RLC entered four teams into the British Army Motorsports Association event taking place in central Scotland. The event attracted a large number of teams from across all three Services and from across the UK. Taking part were regular units, reserve units and UOTC units.

This event is not limited to The RLC Driver role, as all military trades require soldiers to be able to drive and operate in challenging environments. This competition tested and challenged drivers over various terrains putting the skills of the team to the test. The teams were challenged in their navigation skills as they had to move from task to task, following maps, route cards and even pictorial diagrams to locate the next challenge.

The 162 Regt team had representation across a number of 64

trades (Chefs, Drivers and Movement Operators), all of which have a requirement to drive as part of their training/deployments. The teams taking part work hard to plot routes around the exercise area utilising various map types and route cards. Once they arrived at a driving task that’s when the skills of the driver were tested. Various challenges were set up across the training area to test all the elements required to be a solid and reliable vehicle operator.

Sporting success With the relaxation of COVID-19 limitations on competitive sport, the Unit wasted no time in getting back to participating in competitive sport from Bde to National sport level.

Maj Clarke (OC 280 Sqn), as well as

8 Sgt Murphy VC grave restoration

8 The 162 RLC MUDMASTER team being selected to represent the Corps in Cross Country competed in the Triathlon National Relay Championships, finishing second in the category. In September, the Unit pitted its sporting warriors against the rest of 104 Logistics Brigade, competing across a range of events from tug of war to eSports. The Unit came together and put on a great display, narrowly missing out on some silverware. A month later, SSgt Burns (282 Sqn) shot his way to third in the Army Clay Pigeon Shooting Championships. In the pool Capt Covington (RHQ) captained the Army through successful Phase 1 of the Water Polo British National League, in early 2022 the team will compete across three weekends in the hope of being crowned National winners in their category.

What’s to come Early 2022 will see the Regt’l Cross Country team once again flex their prowess at the Army and Corps Championships, before the athletes make their cross over into the summer Athletics program. Pte Davies (280 Sqn) is preparing to defend her Inter-Services title at the IS Tennis Championships along with Pte Hines (280 Sqn) who is gunning to retain the IS Female Cricket Champions crown.

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165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC PLYMOUTH CO: Lt Col R Williams • Adjt: Capt N Hand • RSM: WO1 S Ware In December 2021, Reservists of 165 Port & Maritime Regiment alongside members of 167 Regt RLC and other regular RLC units, participated in Ex KNEES BEND 2021, spending two weeks training in the disciplines of Alpine Ski Racing.

Having travelled through storm Arwen and negotiated the COVID-19 entry requirements for Norway, the team arrived at Hemsedal to find a disappointing lack of snow.

Consequently, there was a requirement to travel to another resort, Valdres for the first four days of training, a 90-minute drive through some stunning Norwegian scenery. Though the mercury dropped to -24°C, participants were blessed with about 45 minutes of sunshine in the afternoon. 45 minutes more than anyone would have seen in North-facing Hemsedal.

With fresh snow arriving in Hemsedal, the novice skiers were able to take advantage of the beginner slopes from day three and the rest of the more advanced skiers returned from day five, taking advantage of the near ski-in / skiout location for the remainder of the race training camp.

With training provided by UNIQ Snowsports, the skiers were split into ability groups while Capt Squire took many of the novice skiers. The first week’s training

comprised of slalom training (short quick turns). This involved hammering through a short and steep course with poles bouncing off helmets, shin and knuckle guards - if the skier managed to get close enough to them. The proficient skiers would complete the course in under 90 seconds.

The second week was primarily Giant Slalom training, longer skis, a longer course and gates to negotiate rather than poles. A couple of early mornings (0630hrs) were spent speed training by floodlight for Super Giant Slalom.

This involved even longer skis, a longer course, much higher speeds and burning thighs by the end of the course. The reason it was done early in the morning was to enable

8 Finally the snow arrived soldiers and officers to throw themselves down the mountain barely in control without fear of hitting the general public (who were all still in bed!).

The final day gave all skiers, including novices, the opportunity to demonstrate their improved skills with a slalom and giant slalom competition. This provided great entertainment for spectators with some skiers flying off-course spectacularly and demonstrating acrobatics and aerobatics that their instructors had not taught them. No serious injuries were sustained.

With a range of abilities in the Regt, ranging from those in their fourth season of competitive skiing, others with more than 40 years skiing experience and another with no snow experience at all; a great two weeks of training and skiing was undertaken. The decision to select a team of four for the 2022 RLC Ski Championships was a very difficult one.

Thanks must go to 6 Regt RLC for laying on the event, to Capt Squire for organising the whole trip and for driving (with Pte Arundel) all the kit and skis out; and thanks go to the Chefs of 167 Regt RLC for helping out with the cooking of meals.

8 Setting off on a slalmon run

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167 Catering Support Regiment RLC GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col Mike Dyos • Adjt: Capt S W D Parry • RSM: WO1 P Jordan 167 Catering Support Regiment would like to wish Lt Col Jo Young all the best as the new SO1 Reserves in RHQ The RLC and welcomes Lt Col Mike Dyos as the new Commanding Officer.

His first duty was to judge the much-vaunted Christmas Cake competition. It was a fiercely fought battle with the QM's Department emerging as the winners. The Regt recently ran some excellent trade courses and will include some insights to them in this and further editions.

The Regt has also had the chance to reflect on the Integrated Review announcements by holding an officers and seniors training weekend.

The Chef Class 1 Course The Army Reserve Chef Class 1 course is held at 167 Catering Support Regiment Technical Training Wing and is a 16-day course. The course is a demanding course designed to introduce the student to supervisory management in a catering environment.

The entry requirements to attend the course are: be a LCpl having completed the Army Reserve Chef Class 2, attended two camps or equivalent in role following completion of the Class 2 course.

This course involves a classroom

application to: craft skills and the operation of field equipment during the field catering phase. To finalise the course a multiple-choice theory exam is set relating to all objectives.

On successful completion the student will be eligible to supervise catering staff in a field kitchen and static location.

8 Lt Col Young handing over command to Lt Col Dyos phase - theory of management, menu planning, food ordering, staff rosters, staff organisation, ration accounting and excise planning. The kitchen phase includes: syndicate work, practical food safety, HASAW, food production, staff monitoring, debriefing, nutrition and team supervision. The field catering phase includes: syndicate work, manual handling, vehicle loading, site selection, site transfer, food production, food reclaim, waste management and equipment care.

Testing involves a theory-based entrance test based on the Army Reserve Chef Class 2 and a project set during the theory phase, which must be completed and passed.

Student's production is assessed on a daily basis. The assessment is marked on the student's

Wellness Cauldron Wasting no time the training team hit 2022 running with a well-attended wellness weekend.

While a virtual session, there was plenty of great info to help with the post-Christmas cleanse and RFT preparation. The topics ranged from mental wellbeing to sports nutrition and Pte Prescot deserves a mention for a brilliantly delivered mental health discussion. We also received some excellent sessions from the Garnett Foundation who have delivered Respect for Others Equality & Diversity training since 2009. Its focus groups explored how Quality & Diversity isn’t simply a moral or legal requirement. It leads to operational effectiveness and some great discussions were had online.

The Wildman Trophy The Regt held its military skills weekend, linked to Gen Wildman a previous Honorary Colonel who was also key in developing the OFCS. The stands ranged from RFTs to a march and shoot, with chances to hone individual model making and driver skills inbetween. It was a close call, yet 111 Sqn took the trophy from 112 Sqn in a hotly fought competition.

The following day the Regt visited St Anne's Church for a Remembrance Service. This weekend was a great chance to remember and for the Regt to get together and say farewell to Sgt Gritton, SSgts Orrell and Archibald.

8 The students from the Cake Course receiving feedback from the Training Team

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

2 Operational Support Group RLC (2OSG) GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col A Chambers • RSM: WO1 M Hobson Life at 2 Operational Support Group RLC has continued at pace over the last few months with members of the group continuing to seize the opportunities available. The Group’s main commitments have provided crucial contract management support and local resourcing in Oman as part of the Theatre Enablement Group supporting Ex KHANJAR OMAN. The Group has also supported the ARRC, suppling personnel for Ex STEADFAST LEDA 21 to manage the Logistic Analysis Cell and contract assurance for ARRC G8 Branch in both Poland and Germany. The high tempo continued into 2022, with 2OSG preparing for its second period of Annual Continuous Training (ACT) in February, along with its commitment to Ex DEFENDER 22.

Ex STEADFAST LEDA 21 In support of Ex STEADFAST LEDA 21, Maj Wilson deployed to Bydgoszcz in Northern Poland, leading the Real-Life Support (RLS) contracts for ARRC forward. Over a five-week period, a strong working relationship was first established and then maintained on a daily basis with the key contractors, identifying any problems before they became operational issues and ensuring value for money was achieved for the exercise budget.

The RLS contracts in Poland covered a range of capability functions including ablutions, portaloos, laundry, hygiene, NAAFI facilities and the employment of 24 Polish locally employed civilians who provided manpower in the dining facility/kitchen and for general cleaning services. A key responsibility was carrying out daily monitoring of the services provided, set against the statement of requirement and the provisions of the contracts, to ensure that all parties were fairly treated. Major Wilson’s strong background in Operational Labour Support helped

to ensure that the Polish labour force was fully utilised.

In Sennelager, WO2 McCready and SSgt Lavender formed the Sustainment Fusion Cell working with the ARRC HQ G8 RLS team, alongside Lt Col Richard Jacobs, Major James Bolter and WO2 Ryan Cook; who were integrated into the rear command post as the Logistics Analysis Cell. Its job was to act as risk manager and fortune teller for the Corps’ supply chain and rear area of operations. It proved a great opportunity for the team to test and consolidate its specialist skills, which proved a valuable and critical asset to the exercise.

Ex KHANJAR OMAN 21 WO2 Billy Mccallum and Sgt James McNee, having just completed the Contracts Management course, were deployed on Ex KHANJAR 8 Maj Wilson hard at work on Ex STEADFAST LEDA

8 WO2 McCallum and Sgt Mcnee providing Contract Management Support on EX KHANDJAR OMAN

OMAN 21. They hit the ground running with the first 10 days focused on getting acclimatised to the heat. This entailed tabbing for 60 miles in various dress states. At the same time contracts had to be in place to ensure there was no delay on the exercise start date. It was fast-paced and timelines were tight but due to the detailed training that was received at 2 OSG all deadlines were met.

The main effort is always to provide value for money for the Army, while providing the best equipment for the exercising troops.

Curve balls came in thick and fast; an example being the number of tyres that would need replacing on the white fleet due to the rough exercise terrain. Dealing with local vendors did throw up some challenges but nothing Google translate could not handle.

Welcomes, farewells and promotions The Group welcomes the following personnel: Lt Steven Smith, Maj Rachel Forbes, Maj Viliame Nanovo and LCpl Bancroft. The Gp welcomes you all and looks forward to you being part of the team.

A fond farewell to SSgt Lavender, SSgt Mooney and SSgt Smart.

The Gp wishes you all the best in the future. Congratulations to SSgt Belcher on his well-deserved promotion to WO2.

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132 Aviation Supply Squadron Royal Logistic Corps IPSWICH OC: Maj K Desai • SSM: WO2 G Fisher A new year brings a new set of challenges as the Sqn prepares to enable a Battalion evolving to support ‘Future Soldier’ and the new 1 Aviation Brigade Combat Team (BCT). That said, the normal battle rhythm continues, maintaining a £650m account and supporting the Apaches from 3 & 4 Regt AAC on various deployments and exercises around the world.

Ex CLOCKWORK Cpl Makhura and LCpl Davis deployed on Ex CLOCKWORK in Norway. The initial preparation was to pack the Deployed Spares Package (DSP) and deploy it out to Norway to successfully support the exercise taking place Nov 21 – Feb 22. The first phase of the exercise is cold weather training; a training and acclimatisation exercise led by 3 Cdo Bde which our JNCOs participated and embraced. Cpl Makhura did not hesitate to take the opportunity to break the ice of Norway’s frozen water and remained seemingly unphased by the whole experience. After the initial phase of training, preparation for receiving the attack helicopter platforms, the main exercise started in Jan 22. The aviation specific exercise will generate environmental training for JHC personnel in preparation for Ex COLD RESPONSE, a large-scale Ex in the high north of Norway.

Ex CHAMELEON After the success of Ex PINION OMAN, the Sqn has been busy preparing for another aviation exercise in a warm environment. Ex CHAMELEON took place in Cyprus during Feb 22. Preparation for this exercise began back in Nov 21 with Cpl Lubin and his team having prepared, packed and deployed another DSP to support the Apache airframes being deployed for the 12-week exercise.

Battlefield study The Sqn took some well-earned downtime from work to go for a battlefield study and cultural visit within UK. A great opportunity for some break from the busy

8 The Sqn battlefield study

schedule. Organised and led by Sgt Mgoola, Sqn personnel went to Nottingham’s Battle of Roses, Sherwood Forest and Nottingham Castle, learning about some of the historical conflicts and logistical problems encountered. It was also an opportunity to break away from the busy work environment and a chance some team bonding.

Charitable activities Although the Sqn has been busy supporting exercises and daily tasks, personnel took to time to engage in several charitable events. The Sqn 2IC took members from Wattisham Flying station to London to assist in raising funds for The London Poppy Day 21.

Members of the Sqn also completed the RBL 11/11 Challenge, completing 11kms every day for 11 days to raise more money for The Royal British Legion.

The Movember challenge was taken on by a large contingent of personnel from the Sqn, also pairing up with a local company to help raise awareness of men’s health issues and raise additional funds. All credit goes to Cpl Walker for co-ordinating and organising this great event.

8 Raising the bars for Movember

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

Defence Munitions (DM) Kineton Station TEMPLE HERDEWYKE CO: Lt Col D Pickersgill • RSM: WO1 M Banks As DM Kineton closes off the year and reflects, it is evident that the pandemic has had little effect on output. The Ammunition Technical Support Group (ATSG) maintained its full range of Operational Ordinance Munition Explosive (OME) support to the deployed force as well as conducting contingency training, community engagement initiatives, VIP visits and participation in the Military Skills Competition.

The Station’s main effort for the last quarter was Ex FALCONS TALON, a multi-layered, multi-agency Counter Terrorist Exercise held on the 21 October 2021. Emergency Services and key agencies from across Warwickshire united with the site security teams in dealing with a VBIED, marauding terrorists, multiple casualties and a large vehicle fire. The exercise was overwatched by Brig MWLW Botsford OBE (Chief of Staff to DG(L)) and Mr Richard Medland (the DE&S Infra 1*) as well as a plethora of other key stakeholders.

Role play casualties were supplied from ATSG and all received specialist make-up from West Midlands Ambulance Service making gun shots, burns and open wounds as realistic as possible. The Emergency Control Centre was stood up by Lt Col D J Pickersgill as overall C2 lead for the situation and was ably supported by key individuals within the command team. The exercise was a huge success and received significant praise from the DE&S PSyA 2nd party assurance team. Capitalising on the Brigadier’s attendance, in the afternoon ATSG JNCOs took the opportunity to showcase their trade skills on operational OME storage which was led by SSgt M Brewer.

The day ended with a LSGC Medal presentation in the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess.

The Station STEM team led by Sgt S Phillips, has also been extremely busy throughout this year in supporting multiple

community engagements, providing the majority of the STEM community engagements under 11 Signal Brigade. The STEM team was also requested by RHQ The RLC to support the Royal Engineers’ Corps Engagement Team with Ex STEM NORTH, a presentational opportunity to over 200 pupils daily over one week. Sgt C Saunders, Cpl N Charters and LCpl C Harris as part of the team had the opportunity to showcase the AT Trade by means of exhibiting conventional and foreign ammunition natures.

With the window re-opening for Army Winter Sports, Capt Lowe was back in his element to take an Alpine Ski team from ATSG into the wider RLC competitive world once

8 DM Kineton Station Ski team

again. Build-up training Ex KINETON KEYNES, took place on the indoor slope at SnoZone in Milton Keynes during October and November to help aid the team selection whilst preparing for the challenges ahead.

Sgt Phillips, Cpl Ghale, Cpl Grannell, Cpl Hill and LCpl Harris made the short list to represent the Unit for the season. The team then progressed to the next phase of their training in Hemsedal, Norway for the RLC Alpine Training Camp, Ex KNEES BEND 21. Cpl Ghale had this to say about his personal experience, “It was a long journey from the start of selection to Norway and taking part in the main event. It was an unforgettable opportunity to be away from my daily routine within the depot and represent the Unit with my fellow colleagues at the RLC Ski Championship next year.

This is one of the sports that I have been looking forward to doing since joining the RLC.” Ex KNEES BEND ended with seeding Grand Slalom and Slalom races with some sterling individual performances and even winning a number of prizes.

8 Cpl DJ Heywood and his colleague are treated for gunshot wounds by the Midlands Ambulance Service

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The Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion GLOUCESTERSHIRE CO: Lt Col I Sands REME • Adjt: Capt H Bennett • RSM: WO1 R Wiseman It has been a busy period for the newly redesignated Gurkha ARRC Sp Battalion. The Unit focus from October to December was on Ex STEADFAST LEDA but the soldiers still found time to compete in Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL and Trailwalker, as well as holding the first unit Dashain celebrations in camp.

Trailwalker Two teams from the Bn took part in the challenging 100km route across the South Downs. The event is run in aid of the Gurkha Welfare Trust and Oxfam, providing support to communities in Nepal. Under the watchful eyes of LCpl Prabesh Rai and Sgt Arjun Tamang, the teams trained hard with most of the participants never having run the sort of distances required before.

Both teams were pushed to their limits but completed the event well within the time limit of 30hrs; the ‘A’ team finished in 13hrs 8mins and the ‘B’ team in 17hrs 36mins.

Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL Ably led by Lt Connor Norris, the Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion Cambrian Patrol team had a very successful competition across the arduous landscape of South Wales.

Under the management of Capt Basanta Rai and SSgt Tilak Pun, the team conducted a tough period of preparation and training before embarking on the patrol itself in early October. Battling the harsh terrain, unpredictable Welsh weather and carrying up to 35kg per person, the team was tested both physically and mentally but displayed excellent professionalism and team work throughout. They were rewarded with a silver medal – a fantastic result and one to be hugely proud of.

Dashain The relative return to normality, following lockdown, saw the Bn able to celebrate Dashain for the first time as members of the Brigade of Gurkhas. The Pujari 70

team was led by Major Baldeep Tamang Saheb, the Bn’s first Gurkha Major and we were honoured to welcome Mr Jagadish Paudel, the pundit from the Queen’s Gurkha Signals, to conduct the key puja rituals of Ghatasthapana, Phulpati and Vijaya Dashami (Tika ceremony). The Dashain party was held on the 2 Oct 21 for all Battalion personnel and their families and featured a feast of Nepalese food and an evening of traditional entertainment. A fantastic evening was had by all.

Ex STEADFAST LEDA This year’s HQ ARRC exercise took place in Germany and Poland, bringing opportunities and challenges aplenty. The Bn, along

8 Dashain was celebrated by the new Gurkha Bn

8 The Bn took silver on Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL

with 217 Signal Squadron and 248 Gurkha Signal Squadron, deployed in mid-October to begin construction and preparation for HQ ARRC’s arrival in mid-November.

Half the Bn was located in Germany, with the other half 850km away in Poland. This tested both soldiers and commanders as the Sqns conducted convoy drills and driving skills to get from one to the other. Those in Germany were able to use pre-existing buildings to support the Main and Rear Command Posts, learning the challenges of integrating military and civilian infrastructures.

Meanwhile, in Poland the Sqn was faced with the challenge of transforming an empty field next to the airport into a fully functioning Field Command Post, including working environments, power distribution and defensive structures. This was achieved in just six days, demonstrating the effectiveness and diverse professionalism of the soldiers in the Bn. The Sqns returned to the UK in mid-December for a well-earned Christmas break.

Jai Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion!

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) BENSON, OXFORDSHIRE OC: Maj J Wells • SSM: WO2 P Devine The Joint Helicopter Support Squadron continues to provide specialised Helicopter Handling capabilities to operations and exercises around the world.

Members of the Sqn have worked tirelessly during 2021 to support the growing Defence commitments that Joint Helicopter Command supports.

Elsewhere in this edition, members of the Sqn provide personal accounts of exercises both in support of rotary operations and the Sqn’s basic infantry skills refresher.

Ex FALCONS AMARANTE Ex FALCONS AMARANTE was a French-led airborne expeditionary force exercise alongside units of 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team.

The joint exercise benefited the JHSS team as it replicated some scenarios and time restraints the Sqn will face whilst deployed in Mali. The journey to Septfonds in Southern France took the team three days by vehicle. There had been a lot of rain before the Mobile Air Operations Team (MAOT) arrived, so the ground was heavily flooded in places. This added complication for the team as they rehearsed how to place vehicles into nets for underslung loading beneath a Chinook. This is the preferred method to move French vehicles and cargo on Op NEWCOMBE. Ex INUA ASKARI/ Ex ASKARI STORM – BATUK JHSS deployed a MAOT consisting of RLC Drivers, RLC Comms Specialists, RAF Movers and an RAF Operations Officer to BATUK in Sept 21 to support Ex INUA ASKARI 21. The exercise saw a deployment of three Puma Helicopters for environmental training (ET), as well as aviation support to the Battle Group deployed on Ex ASKARI STORM 21.

Exercise HOOKER’S SWORD 21 In December 2021, JHSS deployed to Caerwent Training Area to complete annual ‘Soldier First’

8 Ex FALCONS AMARANTE

8 Infantry skills training on HOOKERS SWORD 1

training. This was to test and revalidate the basic soldiering skills of personnel that make up the MAOTs who are regularly deployed in support of the Joint Helicopter Command operations and exercises.

A winning streak! – The JHSS Athletics Team by WO2 Devine Army Cross Country Relay - With a calculated plan, the JHSS team of four fought for victory in the Army XC Championship Minor Unit Relay event. SAC Mountford was the pick of the bunch, recording a 5K time of 16:45s, Pte Toomey ran the second leg in a time of 18:00 leaving Flt Lt Greenhalgh and the ever present WO2 Devine to cement the win.

Army Inter-Corps, Inter-Unit & Individual 10K Road Race - After relishing in victory, and with confidence high, JHSS fancied its chances at Castle Combe Race Circuit near Chippenham. WO2 Devine and Cpl Keen produced sublime times under 40 mins rocketing the team up the rankings, with Pte’s Toomey and Kirk then cementing the teams overall

placing. With four best times recorded, all athletes ran very well and again JHSS were crowned 2021 champions.

Southern XC Army Championships - A week later at Gibraltar Barracks in Surrey, Army Championship Race qualification was the prize. Once again, Cpl Keen and WO2 Devine lead the pack with sub-40-minute finishes.

This lightning performance saw the JHSS team win the event and subsequently qualify for the Army Championships.

2021 has been a busy period for JHSS. The Sqn can be proud of its achievements and as the name suggests, it has been a “joint” effort. 2022 looks to be even busier with requests to support exercises in the UK, Macedonia, Kenya and USA. This will be alongside the usual support to operations in Mali and the Falkland Islands.

Furthermore, with the JHSS Training Wing taking on the complete Heli Handling Training syllabus, 2022 will see JHSS support all three services in the delivery of Heli Handling Training.

2022 will also mark the 40th Anniversary of the Sqn and there are already plans afoot to make it a memorable occasion.

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Logistic Support Squadron CLR BARNSTAPLE OC: Maj M Murphy • SSM: WO2 S Kingston Logistic Support Squadron operated at a relentless tempo over the last few of months.

Personnel have deployed to the US, supporting Ex GREEN DAGGER, and Norway for CETUS ENABLER, as well as providing the usual support to 3 Cdo Bde units. Additionally, personnel have been deployed on UK support tasks to the South Wales Ambulance Service.

Ex GREEN DRAGON Seaton Troop recently deployed in support of 40 Cdo to 29 Palms, California. The exercise was a multinational, force-on-force, exercise that enabled experimental integration of Combat Service Support (CSS) troops with 40 Cdo sub-units. Seaton Tp split into two multi-functional CSS troops comprising around 14 LS Sqn personnel in each.

LCpl Sunwar – My time with CSS Tp 1 in America On 11 Sep 21, I deployed on Ex GREEN DAGGER 21 with CSS Tp 1 for two months. It was my first time working alongside the US Marine Corps. The temperature was extremely hot during day or freezing cold at night, so on the first week, we familiarised ourselves with the area. As part of the advanced party, I had the opportunity to learn how to operate various American vehicles like the famous Humvee and MTVR. Moreover, I advanced my training on how to fuel and carry hazardous goods by trailer. The USMC delivers training in a very different style to its British counterparts and this was eye-opening.

We had a brief stand down period before the exercise began and were

8 Preparing to resupply 40 Cdo

lucky enough to visit San Diego and Las Vegas. During the special to arm phase of the exercise, we practised our military and driving skills. This included vehicle convoy drills, night driving using night vision equipment, RV link-ups, caching and contact drills. We then progressed quickly into the second and third phases where we worked alongside 40 Cdo Strike Coys. The final phase was where all of our training came together. I applied the skills learned to tactically support 40 Cdo. I feel proud to have been the part of an exercise where we were able to dominate the opposing US forces.

Welsh Ambulance Service MACA tasking Ptes Andres and Banning from Dieppe Tp deployed to Wales to assist the Welsh Ambulance Service.

Both soldiers drove ambulances so the paramedics could deal with more patients. This has included dealing with critically ill and injured patients on a day-to-day basis in all manner of situations, often under extreme pressure. Both soldiers have worked tirelessly over the Christmas period and their hard work was often commended by

8 TTPs in the desert

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patients and patients’ families. The work that they have done has directly saved lives and the Sqn is proud of them.

Winter deployment 22 Many LS Sqn ranks are currently deployed in Norway. They are busy conducting arduous training in the one of the world’s toughest environments. Cold weather survival and warfare courses will train ranks how to operate and fight in temperatures as low as -30˚C before they apply their new skills on Ex COLD RESPONSE supporting 40 and 45 Cdo, honing both their tactical and trade skills before returning home in April.

Pre-commando package (PCP) LS Sqn, on behalf of Commando Logistic Regiment Royal Marines, is a main donor unit for the All Arms Commando Course (AACC). The PCP is a mandatory four-week course that develops both military skills and physical fitness, giving students the best opportunity to pass the AACC. The PCP is a progressive yet demanding course, starting on day one with an eight-mile loaded march carrying 25kgs and the Royal Marine Basic Fitness Test. Candidates should arrive being able to pass both tests within the allotted timeframes. The next course will start in April 22. If you feel you have what it takes to earn the coveted Green Beret and serve in 3 Cdo Bde, contact LS Sqn Ops at: 3cdox-clrlsops@mod.gov.uk

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Want to work within one of the most diverse and rewarding environments the Army has to offer?

The RLC Corps Engagement and Nurture Teams are looking for enthusiastic, proactive and professional individuals to support in the recruitment and engagement of the next generation of soldiers.

Opportunities available for Ptes and JNCOs (Regulars) from all RLC trades who are looking to take on a new challenge.

Interested? Contact SSgt Vansittart: Michelle.Vansittart645@mod.gov.uk

THE SUSTAINER | DEFENCE CBRN

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The Defence CBRN Centre (DCBRNC)

By Maj W Douglas RLC A very happy new year from DCBRNC. The last six months have been a busy and demanding period for the centre, underpinned by a number of key personnel changes across the various departments. The Centre welcomes its first RLC Commandant in Lt Col Ciaron Dyer, who brings the total Corps representation in the centre up to three officers, the other two heading up the Technical Support Group (TSG) and the Training Design (TD) team.

The DCBRNC has faced numerous challenges in the age of COVID-19, with responsibility for a raft of operationally critical courses that have had to be delivered at all costs. Maj Mark Jones RL and his team of experienced and dedicated instructors have managed this with little disruption, ensuring specialist and enhanced generalist courses – such as CBRN Instructor and Cell Controller – continue to deliver SQEP individuals across Defence.

Supporting these efforts have been Sgt Kev McHardy and Sgt Kerry Wild from TSG, who have been responsible for implementing COVID direction and providing vital instructor depth for the school at very short notice.

Maj Rich Vann RLC leads a small Tri-Service team of training and graphic designers that support the delivery of existing Pan-Defence C-CBRN courses and develop new training as replacement equipment reaches full operating capability. The handover of responsibility for C-CBRN from the RAF to the Army, has resulted in a reinvigoration of C-CBRN training across the Field Army. As a result, the TD team has been working hard to refresh course content and experiment with additive manufactured training aids, virtual onboarding and developing digital walkthroughs of personal drills. Around this work, ‘Team RLC’ has been looking at the ‘what, how and when’ of how the CSS community would respond to a CBRN incident to create doctrine, SOPs and planning considerations.

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8 CBRN Specialists conducting an exploitation task

8 Potential CBRN Instructor training at Winterbourne Gunner

TSG is the single point of contact for SME advice to units and formations across Defence, fielding daily requests for policy and training advice from their network of CBRN instructors, Defence Advisors and specialists. The unprecedented failure of Advanced Respirator Testing System (ARTS) facilities across the Army has resulted in TSG running one of the only available sets. This has led to copious short notice requests for ARTS testing for deploying units, without which they could not complete their PDT. TSG has continued its committed support to Defence collective training, designing serials and writing scenarios for exercises such as WESSEX STORM, ASKARI STORM and the PDT for Op CABRIT. Sgt Wild is also acting as the Centre lead for the organisation of Ex BRAVE BEDOUIN in Denmark, the only multinational Cell Controller exercise in existence.

TSG has also kept its trials team running smoothly, attending a wide range of working groups focussing

on an eclectic mix of subjects. These include discussions on improvement of in-service equipment such as the FUCHS, engagement with DSTL on the impact of facial hair on respirator seals and working with DE&S on the provision of new detection equipment under Project BOSKER. TSG saw the year out with a trip to Boston to conduct environmental testing on EOD and CBRN suits in support of Project SALAMANDER. Use of the testing facility at the United Sates Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine (USARIEM) will inform a wider study by Sussex University on the effect of wearing PPE in different climates.

Moving into 2022, there are several landmark events due to take place at Winterbourne Gunner. The Centre aims to host the first annual Land CBRN Conference, inviting CBRN stakeholders from across Defence and Industry to update Front Line Commands on current/future threats, doctrinal/equipment changes and collective training requirements. This will feed into a comprehensive CBRN estimate later in the year, which will work to inform Defence CBRN policy and capability moving forward. The Centre remains a welcoming Tri-Service working environment open to Corps personnel of various ranks looking for a new challenge away from their primary trade.

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By Major Richie Crane MBE Having been involved in rugby for nigh-on 50 years, I have found the last three years to be the most inspirational thing I think I have ever been involved with. Kenya has provided the opportunity to use rugby to make a tangible difference to the lives of some of Kenya’s least fortunate children and young people.

While serving with BATUK, located three hours drive north of Nairobi, I have spent a lot of time working with the development of rugby at grass roots level. Nanyuki is about as rural as it gets, far away from the glamour of the autumn internationals and even the formal structures of the Kenyan Rugby Union. But it has become a hotbed of rugby, mainly due to the strong connections between BATUK and the local community.

Since arriving in Nanyuki in 2018, I have worked with Denish Gem, a locally employed civilian who has a desire to promote and develop rugby. We have built up a strong relationship and the rugby sessions have gone from strength-to-strength.

The kids are phenomenal. They come from orphanages in Nanyuki walking for an hour to have an hours rugby and then walk an hour back again. Developing the rugby with the kids has been great and working with Dennis has just been outstanding. We've done a lot in this time and it’s been great.

Conditions are a long way removed from what is seen back at home, with an open ground pitch that more that fits the definition of ‘multi-use’ across the whole community and posts made from three wooden poles which have only recently received protector pads thanks to a donation from Richmond RFC. Not that any of this stops the sport.

We have kit that’s stored across the community. Some people bring balls, someone brings tackle shields, someone brings cones. It’s a true effort from everyone involved. The kids run in bare feet or in crocs and the turn of pace they have, the hands, the enthusiasm; it encourages you to keep wanting to do more.

BATUK is the biggest employer

SPORT | THE SUSTAINER

Rugby an essential conduit to the community for BATUK

within Nanyuki, either with direct LECs, or external service providers.

But the relationship between the British Army and local community is much more holistic than simply monetary. For BATUK community engagement is a massive thing.

You get that right; it builds relationships and people can look at the good that BATUK does.

Helping local schools and orphanages with libraries, sewage, classrooms, books and raising money - helping these less privileged people.

It takes time. You have to plant a seed, gain the trust and then it’s a bit of a ‘Field of Dreams’ moment, where if you build it, they will come.

The coaching is paying off on the field for the youngsters, with Nanyuki’s girls in particular shining on the national stage. Some of the 15/16-year olds play in an U20

8 Maj Richie Crane coaching the local Nanyuki kids

ladies’ league and are on the verge of selection for Kenyan National team, benefitting from the coaching which comes from personnel within BATUK, whether on temporary duty or on exercise. Most of the Rugby guys who come out to BATUK engage early, some come out to play and while they might not be qualified, we use their experience from playing and their enthusiasm to be involved to develop the youngsters.

We had a group who donated some Under-7 and Under-14 kits from Kinloss RFC and I had a box arrive recently from East London Rugby Club, which is my son’s rugby club. The support is tremendous, and we couldn’t function without it.

My posting comes to an end in February 2022, just before this article is due to publish and I know that whoever takes up the mantle will not regret it.

I have loved being involved and I think if I hadn’t been involved, I would be leaving BATUK a disappointed person.

8 Nanyuki girls at the BATUK sponsored Octoberfest Rugby Tournament

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THE SUSTAINER | EXERCISE Members of 2 Operational Support Group deployed on Ex SCOTTISH BEAVER as part of a battlefield study to research the Jacobite rebellion of 1745-1746 and the logistic issues “Bonnie Prince Charlie” experienced during the Jacobite invasion of England.

Arriving just outside of Edinburgh, the first stop of the tour was the site of the battle of Prestonpans. At this battle the Highland Army under Bonnie Prince Charlie, routed a well-positioned General Cope and the government forces. The Jacobite scouts had found an out-flanking path, which combined with the famous highland charge, panicked the government forces, leading to a comprehensive Jacobite victory in 10 minutes. Although some of the site has been built upon, an artificial hill has been built to allow visitors to see the ground.

In the afternoon the group toured Edinburgh Castle, which had held out against the Jacobite siege.

During the siege the Jacobite’s were kind enough to re-supply the castle with victuals in exchange for the garrison not shelling the Scottish capital from their elevated position.

So, when your logistic supply chain collapses; improvise, overcome and adapt. Or just use the enemy’s supply chain instead.

The third day saw us move north to Inverness. En-route the group stopped at the Dalwhinnie whisky distillery (much to the delight of Lt Col Gaudoin). General Cope had stopped at the village of Dalwhinnie. When he got information of a dug in ambush the Jacobite’s had set up to the west, not wanting to get ambushed, he marched on to Inverness to save face by advancing and not retreating. But where he gained the capital of the Highlands, he traded it for the open road south, that the Jacobite’s now had to the Scottish Capital - ironically marching quickly south on the military road that General Wade had built to march government forces north to the highlands. This geographical embarrassment by General Cope then led to a hasty march to Aberdeen, where the government forces sailed south (at the time the fastest mode of transport was by ship). This led to the battle of Prestonpans. To this day we believe 76

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Battlefield Study Whisky, logistics and Bonnie Prince Charlie

General Cope stopped at Dalwhinnie not only because it was on the military road, but because it is famous for having Scotland’s highest whisky distillery. Upon investigation of the distillery gift shop, no blue historic plaques were found to support this theory, but Col John managed to arrange a resupply for the Grantham Mess!

Traveling north once again the group was able to visit Ruthven Barracks, which was held by Sgt Molloy and 14 soldiers against a Jacobite siege of 300 highlanders.

One government soldier was lost after the general order of “no heads above the parapet” was given and said soldier promptly put his head

8 EX SCOTTISH BEAVER – Memorial at the Battle of Culloden

8 The highest whisky distillery in Scotland

above the parapet. Let this be a lesson to all young soldiers - listen to your SNCOs. Those that criticise SLA accommodation in the 21st Century would not want to experience barrack life in the 18th Century Georgian army, where you shared your room with nine other soldiers with two to a bed. The cost of a gallon of beer for one penny from the barracks SQMS, may have helped moral.

The final days of the tour were spent visiting the battle of Culloden site and the spectacular Fort George, finishing off the day with an evening meal of ‘haggis neeps and tatties’ and traditional Scottish live music in the local pub.

While battlefield tours are often planned to visit other countries, the Jacobite rebellion of 1745-1746 is often overlooked, but in an era of COVID and limited international travel, the campaign has great examples of logistics, ground selection and getting inside your enemy’s thought process. It culminated in the last ever battle fought on British soil. The aftermath saw the act of union solidified and led to the United Kingdom switching from feudal command and control systems to the Army we recognise today. It also led to a significant increase in international trade and expansion of British influence.

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“IF YOU’RE ON YOUR OWN, THINK ABOUT BECOMING A CHELSEA PENSIONER. IT’S BEEN LIKE A FAMILY.” WE ARE WELCOMING APPLICATIONS TO BECOME A CHELSEA PENSIONER. To find out more, contact our admissions team: 020 7881 5204 admissions@chelsea-pensioners.org.uk www.chelsea-pensioners.co.uk/become-chelseapensioner

Before I came here, I left the house every day, just to get a walk. But then I came back to an empty flat. Nothing – just the television and the phone. I was isolated – now I’ve got people to talk to.

The best thing about being a Chelsea Pensioner is there’s care here for the guys who need it, but you can get out and about. The company’s fantastic and the food is beautiful.

Structure is important in the Army, but here you can come and go as you like.

And there’s lots to do here. I went to the quiz and there was a fantastic music night in the Chelsea Pensioners’ Club – we were all singing.

I respect the history here. Tradition and history are important in the Army and here at the Royal Hospital. All the battle honours on the wall in the Great Hall that’s our history, as soldiers.

If you’re on your own, think about becoming a Chelsea Pensioner.

It’s been like a family.

THE SUSTAINER | OBITUARIES

8 Sergeant Avikali Matai-Masuwale Stores Troop 18 Fd Coy, 3 Armd CS Bn REME

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Sgt Avikali Matai-Masuwale was a Royal Logistic Corps soldier serving with 3 Armoured Close Support Battalion REME. She joined the British Army in the year 2000, entering The RLC as a Logistic Specialist (Supply).Throughout a career that spanned over 20 years she served across the UK and on permanent postings in Canada and Germany. She was always highly regarded throughout her career. As a leader and manager, she displayed incredible drive and commitment to succeed in all she did. As a professional logistician, she had a superb understanding of her trade – always operating at a standard well above her rank.

Diligent, proactive and above all caring, she nurtured and developed those around her and brought out the best in everyone she worked with. She was a truly inspirational character.Whenever others needed assistance, she would be the first to roll her sleeves up and help to resolve any problem, never relenting until they had successfully finished the task. Her personable manner, high professional standard and relentless drive for the development of her subordinates and peers, made her a natural leader that soldiers would readily follow.

Sgt Matai-Masuwale had a fierce intelligence, which was clear to all that worked with her. Her capacity and knowledge were outstanding while her technical competence was boosted by her incredible initiative. On multiple occasions she was required to fulfil a role either one or two ranks above her own; she rose to the challenge each

#BritishArmyLogistics time, always sitting comfortably operating at a higher level. She always demonstrated selfless commitment to her Troop – laying her own work aside to make time for others and then working out of hours and on weekends to ensure her own tasks were completed successfully. Critical inspections and exercises would have had dramatically different outcomes without her invaluable contributions to the output. Often described as the “go to” person within the Battalion’s RLC Stores Troop, the passion she showed every day, alongside her incredibly positive attitude, made her an outstanding ambassador for her department, trade and Corps.

Throughout her service, Sgt Matai-Masuwale was long considered the rock of the RLC Stores Troop, deeply involved in all parts of service life. She would regularly organise troop lunches for soldiers and their families, encouraging esprit-de-corps and the forging of relationships that went beyond just time spent together in work. She was a pivotal figure within the Fijian communities in every location she served in.

The loss of Sgt Matai-Masuwale is a huge blow to the entire Battalion family. The passing of an excellent soldier and truly remarkable person under tragic circumstances has been very hard, it has had a significant effect on all in the Unit. Sgt Matai-Masuwale will be remembered as a person of incredible talent and even greater kindness and selflessness, but also as a friend, mentor and guide to the many members of the Battalion and wider military community who knew and served with her. She will be sorely missed and never forgotten.

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#BritishArmyLogistics

8 Colonel John Riggall OBE 1929-2021

OBITUARIES | THE SUSTAINER Colonel John Riggall OBE was born in Hastings in 1929, the son of Edward Riggall, a former Lieutenant in the ASC during WW1.The family originated from Lincolnshire and it was to this county that Colonel John was posted in 1981 and later retired there. It was the good fortune for CVHQ RCT TA, and latterly HQ RCT TA, that he was posted to Grantham as Commander and following military retirement returned as civilian (Civil Service) DCOS. So many of those who knew him and served with him during this period recognised that not only was he a superb administrator and font of knowledge, but also a very effective mentor to all Commanding Officers, Officers Commanding and to all those aspiring to these positions. Moreover, he was a true friend and as such, was an honorary member of almost all the unit officers’ messes.

Colonel John had a long, varied and distinguished military career and enlisted when the UK had a large Army with bases and postings available world-wide, He enlisted in the General Service Corps in October 1947 and spent some time training with various units of the Royal Field Artillery.

In July 1948, he was accepted into Eaton Hall Officer Cadet School in Cheshire, the seat of the Dukes of Westminster. Accepted by RMAS he was commissioned into the RASC on 18 December 1949.

There followed the usual raft of regimental duties, including a tour in Korea, and as a Captain was Adjutant of 1 Training Battalion RASC. He transferred to the AAC early in

1956 and undertook pilot training on Chipmunk and Beaver aircraft.

Following qualifying as a pilot, he transferred to 656 AOP Sqn RAF (Air Observation Post) in the Far East which was subsequently transferred to AAC. He was awarded a Mention in Dispatches for his work during this posting.

Returning to UK and the RASC, John was promoted to Major in 1962 and the following year returned to AAC thence to Air Supply Wing RASC at Middle Wallop. Following this, he was posted to 656 Sqn in the Far East and later to 30 Flight RASC as Flight Commander. In 1965 he was awarded a military MBE for distinguished service in the Borneo territories.

On return from the Far East he was appointed 2IC of 23 Regiment RCT and on promotion to Lt Col worked for CCRCT in I Br Corps. For two years, 1973/5, he was CRCT in Northern Ireland during the height of “The Troubles”. A tour at the Army School of Transport was followed by promotion to Colonel and appointment as Col Q Mov A at the MOD. 1981 saw Col John posted to CVHQ as Commander. He retired from his military career in 1982 but returned as a Civil Servant and RO2 in the role of DCOS the same year, aiding and abetting his lifelong friend, Brig R E L Jenkins CBE, who succeeded him as Commander CVHQ. He also became actively involved with SSAFA and for his work for SSAFA, his MBE was advanced to OBE. Colonel John will not only be acutely missed by his wife and family, but also by all those who knew him and served with him.

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THE SUSTAINER | LAST POST

#BritishArmyLogistics

LAST POST Ainsley - In December 2021, Lt Col CH Ainsley TD RASC/RCT Aitkenhead - 9 January 2022, Maj R Aitkenhead RASC/RAOC Ankin - On 28 January 2022, Mr C Ankin RAOC Barker - On 18 January 2022, Maj N Barker RAOC/RLC Beall - 24 January 2022, Mr W Beall RASC Biggs - On 14 August 2021, Brig B R Biggs late RAOC Bollers - On 7 September 2021, Maj J J Bollers RAOC Bonner - On 12 January 2022, Mr J D Bonner RAOC Boyles - 18 January 2022, Col RJ Boyles late RASC/RCT Brittenden - On 4 Januaery 2022, Mr G Brittenden RAOC Brophy - On 26 July 2021, Mr J Brophy RAOC Buckle - On 9 December 2021, Mr J E Buckle RAOC Bull - 5 January 2021, Mr D Bull RASC/RCT Cannons - On 22 November 2021, Lt Col R M Cannons MBE RAOC Coburn - 13 November 2021, Mr JB Coburn RASC/RCT Collinson - 4 December 2021, Mr KS Collinson RASC/RCT Collyer - On 7 October 2021, Mr (ex-WO1(Cdr) P Collyer RAOC Cowdry - On 9 August 2021, Brig D F A Cowdry late RAOC Davies - On 22 July 2021, Mr K H Davies RAOC Davies - On 30 January 2022, Maj J L Davies RAOC Dawson - On 22 October 2021, Mr V S W Dawson RAOC Daykin - On 24 November 2021, Maj J G Daykin RAOC de Wolf - On 15 September 2021, Lt Col S G de Wolf RAOC Dennett - On 5 September 2021, Mr M Dennett RAOC Duncan - 4 January 2022, Mr F Duncan RE/RCT Eckersley - On 29 December 2021, Mr F A Eckersley RAOC Foxwell - 24 December 2021, Mr DG Foxwell RCT Giblett - On 12 September 2021, Mr F G Giblett GM RAOC Groves - On 29 September 2021, Mr M J Groves RAOC Hassall - On 16 December 2021, Mr C B Hassall RAOC/RLC Hill - 16 December 2021, Mr M Hill RCT Hobbs - On 28 August 2021, Mr B J Hobbs RAOC Hocking - On 11 December 2021, Mr I Hocking RAOC Irwin - On 3 November 2021, Lt Col B H Irwin RAOC Johnstone - On 22 July 2021, Mr J I Johnstone RAOC Keeble - 19 May 2021, Mr D Keeble RCT Lee - 5 January 2022, Mr GC Lee RASC Lenihan - On 1 October 2021, Mr P Lenihan RAOC Lennox - On 4 September 2021, Brig R N Lennox CBE late RAOC Lewis - 28 February 2022, Lt Col JEC Lewis RCT/RLC

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Lowe - On 26 October 2021, Maj M Lowe RAOC MacNeill - 11 November 2021, Mr OP MacNeill RASC/RAOC MacNeill - On 11 November 2021, Mr O P MacNeill RAOC Malcolm - 4 February 2022, Mr M Malcolm RCT Marshall - On 20 July 2021, Mr (ex-WO2) K Marshall RAOC Marshall - On 27 October 2021, Mr C Marshall RAOC Matai-Masuwale – In January 2022 Sgt A MataiMasuwale RLC Mathams - On 8 October 2021, Col M L Mathams OBE late RAOC May - On 24 February 2021, Mr (ex-Sgt) M J May RAOC McBurnie - On 2 November 2021, Mr S McBurnie RAOC McKeown - On 25 October 2021, Mr J McKeown RAOC Murray - On 31 August 2021, Mr R H Murray RAOC Musson - On 25 October 2021, Mr R Musson RAOC Notley - 7 January 2022, Maj AN Notley MBE TD RASC/RCT O'Shea - On 14 December 2021, Mr A O'Shea RAOC Oliver - 1 November 2021, Mr MJ Oliver RASC Oxley - On 29 August 2021, Mr D L Oxley RAOC Palmer - 18 January 2022, Maj EF Palmer MBE RCT/RLC Palmer - On 9 November 2021, Mr D Palmer BEM RASC/RAOC/AGC Parkes - On 18 July 2021, Mr R Parkes RAOC Parsons - On 29 Janaury 2022, Lt Col M E Parsons RAOC Payne - On 24 September 2021, Mr G Payne RAOC Peacock - 23 November 2021, Mr AJ Peacock RASC/RCT Powell - On 20 November 2021, Mr A Powell RAOC Poynter - On 3 August 2021, Mr L G Poynter RAOC Pumfrey - On 7 January 2022, Mr B R Pumfrey RAOC Rendall - 18 January 2022, Mrs FE Rendall WRAC Rogers - On 10 July 2021, Mr F Rogers RAOC Ross - On 29 October 2021, Lt Col G J Ross RAOC Sexton - On 29 October 2021, Mr J R Sexton RAOC Smith - On 13 October 2021, Mr G W Smith RAOC Turner - 31 December 2021, Mr CG Turner RASC/RCT Vose - On 10 July 2021, Mr J R Vose RAOC Wade - 4 December 2021, Maj ERL Wade RASC/RCT Walford - On 26 January 2022, Capt S T Walford RAOC/RLC Wassell - On 29 September 2021, Mr W Wassell RAOC Watson - 11 November 2021, Mr D Watson RASC/RCT Watson - On 12 July 2021, Mr A H G Watson RAOC Weston - On 30 May 2021, Mr A Weston RAOC Wickes - On 10 November 2021, Lt Col D J C Wickes LVO RAOC Wybrow - On 13 April 2021, Mr R T Wybrow RAOC

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