#BritishArmyLogistics As the Coronavirus pandemic hit its peak in early 2021, 91 Squadron, 27 Regiment RLC, switched their MC 9090 scanners for ammunition boots and Parade Gloss in preparation for three months of prestigious Public Duties (PD). The Squadron’s training saw some early mornings and late nights, not only from the SP trying to learn the complex drill movements required; but also for those in support who gathered uniform and burned down boots. The hard work paid off and on the morning of the 29 Apr it was finally time for the ‘Fit For Role’, inspection carried out by the GSM and Commander London District. Although there is always room for improvement, the Sqn passed the inspection with flying colours, which allowed it to mount guards at Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, the Tower of London and Windsor Castle. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, the Sqn only covered administrative guard mounts, which meant while standing guard in the famous pill boxes, there was no ceremonial march to the guardrooms or the changing of the guard parade. For many of the soldiers it was the first time they had visited the historical London sites, so it was a real eye opener for them. Pte George (pictured) shares her experience: “COVID-19 made preparation for PD exceedingly difficult, as new guidelines and policies needed to be adhered to. Extra precautionary measures were in place to prevent any spread of infection, but this did not deter us from perfecting our drill movements in line with the ceremonial formats. “Despite these challenges, we continued with hard work and dedication. We also maintained a
PUBLIC DUTIES | THE SUSTAINER
27 Regiment RLC Public Duties 2021
high state of readiness throughout ensuring that Army mandatory requirements from ranges to MATTs were delivered. This ensured that we were ready to deliver on wider commitments if required.” “After three months of conducting administrative mounts, Pte George reflects: “Being on the sentry points gave us the chance to reflect on ourselves and the fact that we are not only representing our regiment but the whole Army. This added to the pressure of ensuring our kit and our personal drill was to the highest standard. Having strong encouragement from our Chain of Command and peers was a key part of being on PD, especially as it was the first time for most junior ranks and at times it could be overwhelming. “In addition to the Queen’s Guard, we also conducted random Quick Reaction Force (QRF) simulations so that we understood the procedures and got used to the urgency of getting ready to give support to the police. All the hours of training before deploying on PD helped us a lot, not only physically
but mentally. We also gained an understanding of the hard work that goes into getting a Sqn ready; from the planning and training by the SSM and her team, to the SQMS making sure that we have the correct kit and equipment. “Despite the disappointment of not being able mount the ceremonial parades, PD was a breath taking opportunity. The pride that you feel once you are mounted on the sentry point, being a part of such a prestigious duty and being able to see and guard the Royal Family is an honour and something I will never forget. It has boosted my confidence and made me so proud to represent my regiment, the Army and my country, especially when I marched to my duty post, seeing the amazement and smiles on the faces of tourists. As they videoed and took my picture, I thought about what the Garrison Sergeant Major always saying: ‘Chest up, chins high and let that swag out.' I would definitely do PD again and I advise anyone, if they are given the opportunity, to grab it with both hands.”
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