RLC The Sustainer Spring 2020

Sustainer THE

Journal of The Royal Logistic Corps â?˜ SPRING 2020

www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk

#WeAreTheRLC

The Royal Logistic Corps Nurture Team

What are we?

The RLC Nurture Team is a brand new team set up to help guide and assist with any needs or queries a British Army recruitment candidate may have about The RLC. We work closely with all Army Career Centres around the country providing essential knowledge of The RLC and the trades we offer. Our aim is to support candidates that have a preference towards joining the RLC prior to completing their 14 weeks Basic Training. We do this by having one on one chats in an Army Career Centre or over the phone, answering any question you the candidate may have, while also giving useful advice where needed. We also run Army Awareness Activity weeks giving candidates a better insight into the Army as a whole, as well as providing a more in-depth look at each individual trade that The RLC has to offer.

Who we are and how to contact us

To contact us, in the first instance visit your local Army Career Centre. You can find your nearest centre by visiting the British Army Career Centre finder - https://apply.army.mod.uk/army-career-centre-finder Alternatively you can get in touch with any of us using the detail listed or you can send a PM to the Royal Logistic Corps Facebook page @TheRoyalLogisticCorps

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 28 No 1 ❘ Spring 2020

34 7 57 63 26 70

Contents

12 1917

7 RHQ The RLC

14 Gurkha 150

Welcome to the Corps’ new home of Worthy Down

9 Cover story RLC Capt crowned Army Champion

11 RLC Museum Museum receives a Royal gift

The making of a blockbuster

1 Squadron RLC celebrates 150th

26 Trades focus Four months in the life of a Mov Con

28 Bomb truck Jenga Life as an Ammo Tech

34 Op BARYTONE A personal account of hurricane Dorian

40 Army Phots Some of the winning images

by RLC Photographers

42 Unit reports What you have been up to over the last three months.

76 Ex SKI RLC News, views and results

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A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE An RHQ Perspective

‘‘

Finally, this is me signing off as your Corps Colonel.

Echoing my words at the outset of my tenure, it has been an enormous privilege.

I will look back upon it with a massive sense of pride. I have loved every minute of it and have been proud to promote the Corps, whilst boasting about all of your contributions

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Welcome to, the first 2020 edition of The Sustainer and the first published from our new home in Worthy Down.

This iteration focuses on the Corps’ many and varied trades, where you will find some fascinating profiles of some of our young tradesmen and women.

As well as a round-up of unit business there are also some eye-catching articles on the Army Photographic competition, the fantastic Ex SKI RLC, 1 Sqn QOGLR’s 150th Anniversary celebrations and a focus on our new home, here in Worthy Down. If you haven’t been here yet I implore you to visit; it is an impressive facility and will only get better as the development concludes during the next 12 months.

Once again, our soldiers and officers have contributed at every opportunity.We have people deployed around the world on operations and exercises demonstrating the prowess of our Corps. Some noticeable achievements include 27 Regiment’s hugely successful Op TOSCA tour of Cyprus, which draws to a close this month. I had the privilege of visiting them where the sense of pride and professionalism was palpable.

Much of 104 Logistic Support Brigade is still deployed across Europe supporting our US colleagues and 6 Regiment has just recovered from Ex WESSEX STORM. Completing such a successful exercise, whilst simultaneously delivering Ex SKI RLC, tells you all you need to know about their impressive contribution.

Continuing with a sporting theme we have seen success on the sports field and plenty of recognition for some of our teams and individual sports stars. 6 Regiment retained its Princess Marina title as the champion skiing regiment in the Army, whilst the 1 Regiment Nordic team had a really impressive season; cleaning up at every competition across the Army, less the coveted RLC Patrol Race,

which went to 154 Regt for the first time (WO2 Sanderson now has the complete set of winners medals).

We also have teams in the finals of the Army Rugby Cup and Plate competitions. In terms of endeavour no greater example can be found than 3 Regiment’s Guinness World Record van pull.They raised huge sums for mental awareness charities pulling the DHL van 76 kms non-stop in 12 hours.

You should all be aware of our ‘best in class’ Apprenticeships programmes. We have more soldiers than any other cap badge enrolled. At the recent Army Apprenticeship Awards presentations Pte Jaden Dunn, Catering Tp, 4thBn The Royal Regiment of Scotland, received the Highly Commended Young Apprentice of the Year Award and Mr Peter Ramsden, of the RHQ team, who coordinates and develops the programmes, received a Special Recognition Award for his contribution to the Army’s most complex programme.The period has also seen Cpl Rebecca Brown crowned Professional Army Photographer the Year 2019; many many congratulations.

Finally, this is me signing off as your Corps Colonel. Echoing my words at the outset of my tenure, it has been an enormous privilege.

I will look back upon it with a massive sense of pride. I have loved every minute of it and have been proud to promote the Corps, whilst boasting about all of your contributions. Delivering the RLC25 celebrations and moving the Corps HQ to Worthy Down, whilst drawing a line under both our and our predecessors time in Deepcut, have been notable events for us all and have set the conditions for the next epoch in our development; you will all, I am sure, be at the very heart of that. I’ll finish by thanking you all for your friendship, guidance and professionalism during the last three-plus years and ask only that you support my successor, Colonel Jon West, as well as you’ve supported me. Thank you.

We Sustain C J Francis Colonel RLC

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FROM THE RANKS It is 1030hrs on 5 Mar 20. I have just left Blenheim Palace. I cannot believe what I have just witnessed…Twelve men, made up of RLC and AGC personnel from 3 Regt RLC and a member of DHL Supply Chain, have just set a new Guinness World Record.That’s right, 3 Regt RLC are World Record holders! They pulled a VW Transporter van through the night, in cold and damp conditions, for 12 hours, non-stop! The GWR stood at 8km covered in the time, but 3 Regt RLC smashed it, completing a distance of over 76km - Wow! I spent the night watching the event and talking to the team as they completed their change overs and was blown away by their very modest attitudes.They were ably supported by volunteers from the Regt and the local area.

They set out raise £10,000 for MIND and ABF and they were well on the way to reaching their target, when I drafted this article.

What a truly inspirational group of officers and soldiers.This is the very reason that I love what I do and why I love our Corps, the Army and the officers and soldier within it.Well done 3 Regt RLC, you absolutely nailed it and you are the very definition of what the #ArmyConfidence campaign is trying to encapsulate.

Congratulations!

Every day I wake up, our people are always doing exceptional things. Be that on operations around the globe; exercises like Ex DEFENDER EUROPE; or bringing home the sporting silver wear to demonstrate our excellence.We are a Corps with many strengths.We should all be very proud of this, but you should be very proud of what you do to contribute to our success. Our people are our greatest asset; so, thank you for all that you do and well done!

There is one person in particular, I would like to single out. It will not be lost on you that our Corps Colonel is moving on.

He will not be straying far as he is

the next Commandant of the Defence School of Logistics. Col CJ Francis MBE ADC has been the Colonel RLC for just over three years. He has visited every unit across the Corps, visited many exercises and operations, sporting events, awards ceremonies and has shared a drink with most of us.

Together we have travelled the length and breadth of the country, clocking up some serious millage.

However, no matter the distance, the hour of the visit or the weather conditions, he is there and he is there because of you.

During his tenure, whether in person or from afar, the Colonel has had his hand in the mangle regarding each and every one of you. He has been at the helm, steering the ship perfectly and often through stormy waters, during times of uncertainty and constant change. No matter the difficulty of the situation he always puts you first. He is very passionate about his role and I have witnessed this passion on many occasions. He is often locked in battle, ensuring that you get the best deal and will not let it lie until the battle is won.

He has guided the Corps to where it is today.We have moved location, been reshaped and rebased in some areas and our ethos and reputation have never been better.We are strong, together like never before, we believe in ourselves and we are held in very high regard across the Army and Defence and this is down to his leadership. For that we thank you Sir. You leave the Corps in a much better place. Of your many achievements there is one that stands out and that has to be the RLC 25 celebrations. In many opinions these events have been our wakening.The Corps, our ethos in particular, has only rocketed since.We really have, come of age!

We (I) wish you and your family the very best of luck in your future and I know we will see you around the Corps. I think you will enjoy the pages ahead as we pay a little tribute to you for a job well done sir!

WO1 P S Broom Corps Sergeant Major RLC

‘‘

During his tenure, whether in person or from afar, the Colonel has had his hand in the mangle regarding each and every one of you.

He has been at the helm, steering the ship perfectly and often through stormy waters, during times of uncertainty and constant change

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THE SUSTAINER | FAREWELL

#WeAreTheRLC

Thank you Colonel Colin During his tenure as the Colonel RLC, Colonel C J Francis MBE ADC (Colin) has been the most photographed person in The RLC. And one of the busiest. His role requires an officer with a diverse skills set and at times strong constitution, given the number of evening events he attends.

The Colonel doesn’t normally like his picture to appear too frequently in The Sustainer, but in recognition of his time as Col RLC, we decided to bring you some of his best bits. A few images that capture Col Colin in action, utilising his skills, and dressing up box, for maximum effect.

Colonel, thank you for everything you have done for The RLC.

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#WeAreTheRLC

FAREWELL | THE SUSTAINER

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EDITOR’S NOTE Firstly, I would like to say… If you are reading this, I’m relieved and delighted! No, the fresh paint fumes in the new Regimental HQ in Worthy Down haven’t got the better of me; it is a serious point. Unfortunately, when all the IT moved from Deepcut to the Corps’ new home, there were some issues with publications distribution database.

Hopefully these are resolving, but our sincere apologies to anyone serving, who didn’t receive their copy of the 2019/2020 RLC Review. We have a pile of returned copies in the office, from officers and WO1s who have moved on to new postings since the 2018 iteration was sent out. If you missed your copy, let us know and we can get one out to you.

This edition of The Sustainer is focused on The RLC’s trades. Despite recruiting targets being met currently, the effort continues at pace. To help raise awareness of some of the great opportunities and jobs available to soldiers serving in The RLC and to help the Corps’ Engagement and Nurturing teams, we have included some personal accounts from young soldiers about their experiences. These young soldiers have a real passion for what they do and what they have achieved.

The magazine will be available to view online from the new RLC homepage on the official Army website and from the Corps’ own website: www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk. Please share the link to

the online edition, with anyone you know, who is considering a career in the Army or is still deciding on a career path.

On another note, I would like to publicly thank the former curator of The RLC Museum, Andy Robertshaw, for his unique insight into the making of Sam Mendes’ Hollywood blockbuster 1917. Andy is an expert WW1 historian and battlefield tour guide. He was the historical advisor on the movie and also had a similar role on War Horse. Sadly, the meticulous detail that went into making it such a compelling film, didn’t earn it the Oscar for Best Picture, but if you haven’t seen it, you should.

While I am on the subject of reviews, in this edition is the first in a series of book reviews.

Maj Gen David Shouesmith brings you his view on a recent read. The book has a logistics related theme running through it. If you would like to contribute a book review in the future, see page 38 for more details.

2020 promises to be a busy year. Please spare some time to send the Corps’ media and communications team news (with high quality images please) about what you are getting up to, so we can share it with the wider Corps across one or several of our media platforms.

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 Assistant Editor: Miss Anne-Marie Causer BA (Hons) Email: rlcsustainer@gmail.com Graphic Design: David Blake Copy deadlines for THE SUSTAINER: 13 Apr 20, 6 Jul 20, 5 Oct 20, 11 Jan 21 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

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

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

Security: This Journal contains official information. It should be treated with discretion by the recipient. © 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: Capt Hattie Bennett © Matt Noone

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

Welcome to Worthy Down

Regimental Headquarters The Royal Logistic Corps is now firmly established in the Corps’ new home of DCLPA Worthy Down, near Winchester.

The Defence College for Logistics Policing and Administration (DCLPA) is a Tri-Service campus and is now a hive of activity, colour and cap badges, given the variety of uniforms worn by permanent staff and students alike.

The RHQ is located in the centre of the college, in the left hand side of building 204; the other side being occupied by RHQ The Adjutant General’s Corps. Building 204 borders a large parade square with a band facility and drill shed on the other side. Located on the ground floor is the main conference room, Corps Col, Corps SM, COS, The Corps Adjt and the Trg Ops team. Upstairs is The RLC Association Secretariat, RASC/RCT and RAOC Associations, Benevolence, Media & Comms, the Video Production Team, CRLO and the CET and Nurture Teams.

The open plan office layout is the polar opposite of Deepcut’s Dettingen House, but benefits include fast open access Wi-Fi, hot desks, clean modern washroom facilities and close by are the WOs’, Sgts’ and Officers’ messes, single living accommodation, a modern gymnasium, a shop, hairdressers and the Junior Ranks’ dining room. At the head of the parade square is the RAOC War Memorial.

Worthy Down is still very much under construction and so not currently seen at its best. But it will be a great environment once completed. Parking within the college is currently an issue, with 1800 planned spaces to accommodate considerably more vehicles, once Worthy Down is working at full capacity. If you are visiting RHQ The RLC as a group we would advise coming in one vehicle. The car parks currently available for visitors are normally full by 08:30.We look forward to welcoming you to the new home of The RLC.

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THE SUSTAINER | NEWS

#WeAreTheRLC

US Meritorious Service Medal Captain Jordan Kemp has been awarded the US Meritorious Service Medal for her contribution to Operation SHADER. Deployed as the Support Centre Director for US Special Operations Forces, Task Force Jordan, Captain Kemp, was the principle CS and CSS planning officer for counter-ISIS operations in Southern Syria.

She said:“It was an unforgettable tour and I felt so fortunate to experience planning real-time operations as part of a coalition team of Jordanian, US and Norwegian SOF.” “I am very grateful to have been formally recognised by the US for my contribution to the Task Force and I would highly recommend this career broadening OCE to anyone looking to be stretched, work hard in a new environment and visit a fascinating region of the world.”

Capt Kemp commissioned into The RLC in 2014 becoming Troop commander at 1 Regt RLC in

PEACEKEEPING MEDALS IN CYPRUS RLC troops deployed on Op TOSCA have been awarded service medals in recognition of the peacekeeping mission in Cyprus.

Among those awarded were soldiers from 27 Regiment RLC who are nearing the end of their six-month tour patrolling the buffer zone in Nicosia.

For many of the soldiers, it has been their first overseas tour and their first operational medal.

Troops were handed their medals at the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) Winter Medals Parade by the Commander of UN Forces in Cyprus.

Over 1000 personnel from different nations make up the UN force in Cyprus on what is one of the world’s longest running peacekeeping missions.

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Germany, where she deployed on Op HERRICK 20. She then became Troop Commander at Army Training Centre Pirbright. Op SHADER was her first posting as a Captain.

She currently works as a Collection Manager in the Joint Intelligence Operations Centre and will be joining 9 Regt RLC as the Regimental Operations Officer this summer.

THE QUEEN'S NEW YEAR’S HONOURS LIST 2020 The New Year’s Honours List 2020 has this year recognised the following Army (RLC) Personnel:

Lieutenant Colonel Derren Mark BATTERSBY-WOOD, The Royal Logistic Corps

As Officers (OBE) Lieutenant Colonel Kehinde Adetunji Oluseyi Olajuwon SORUNGBE, The Royal Logistic Corps

QUEEN’S VOLUNTEER RESERVES MEDAL Warrant Officer Class 2 David PERRING,VR, The Royal Logistic Corps, Army Reserve

As Members (MBE) Sergeant Guy Fitzroy Oronde LOWE-BARROW, The Royal Logistic Corps Captain Colin MACNAB,VR, The Royal Logistic Corps, Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel (now Major) Richard James McCORD, The Royal Logistic Corps, (now Army Reserve) Major Maikali William NAWAQALIVA, The Royal Logistic Corps Major Stephen Richard ROBERTS, The Royal Logistic Corps Sergeant Emma Kay SMITH, The Royal Logistic Corps Lieutenant Colonel Simon James STEVENSON,The Royal Logistic Corps

Promotion to WO2 Congratulations from the Col RLC to all recently selected for promotion to Major and WO2.

Pictured: SSgts Thomas and Chapwanya with the COS RHQ The RLC, Lt Col Dyer.

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

Capt Hattie Bennett was crowned Army Ladies Slalom Champion at the Army Alpine Ski Championships in Serre Chevalier in January.

Capt Bennett, who is OC of The RLC Corps Engagement Team, based at RHQ The RLC, has a had an extremely successful season.

She was crowned top female overall at the qualifying championships, Ex SPARTAN HIKE, winning both the Slalom and Giant Slalom and placing second in the Super G and Downhill. Going on to the Army Championships it was a hard fought battle for the Slalom title but a comfortable lead from the first run led her to victory by a narrow 0.66 seconds. She was also runner up in the Giant Slalom and finished third in the overall combination. This success led to selection for the Army team, competing at the Inter Services Snow Sports Championships in Meribel, where the Army Ladies finished second overall. At Ex SKI RLC Capt Bennett was presented with her Corps Colours.

RLC Captain crowned Army Ladies Slalom Champion

3 REGT RLC ARE RECORD BREAKERS

3 Regiment RLC has set a new Guinness World Record for the furthest non-stop vehicle pull in 12 hours.The 12-man team (nine RLC and two AGC personnel from 3 Regt, plus an employee of attempt sponsor, DHL Supply Chain) worked in shifts of four, to smash the previous record by more than 62km.

During the night 4/5 Mar 20, at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, they pulled the 4,000lb VW Transporter van through the night, overcoming the inevitable challenge of fatigue, while enduring the foulest of cold, windy and wet conditions the March weather

could throw at them.

The record attempt was organised by Capt Aaron Thompson and Capt Jonathan Kinahan.

Their aim was to raise £10,000 for mental health charity MIND and the Army Benevolent Fund; two charities close to 3 Regt's heart.

The team was ably supported by volunteers from the Regt and the local area.The world record attempt attracted regional TV and radio coverage and a record audience on RLC and army social media.

Spectators, including most of the Regt in the closing stages, cheered the team as they set their amazing 76km record.

The RLC Association Annual General Meeting The RLC Association AGM will take place at the Defence College of Logistics, Policing and Administration (Building 101) in Worthy Down,Winchester SO21 2RG at 1630hrs on Tue 2 Jun 20.

All serving officers, soldiers and members of The RLC Association are encouraged to attend the AGM to hear how the Corps is progressing and how the funds are being spent in support of the serving, reservist and veteran communities. Details of the audited accounts for 2019 will be posted on The RLC website ahead of the meeting. Those wishing to raise items at the AGM are to submit them in writing to the Regimental Secretary by Fri 24 Apr 20. Email: Stephen.Yafai983@mod.gov.uk In order to ease access to Worthy Down, Association members wishing to attend are to notify Lt Col (Retd) JE Knowles. Please submit names and vehicle numbers to: Email: Jonathan.Knowles749@mod.gov.uk Agenda: 1. Opening Remarks. 2.

Minutes of the last AGM. 3. Trustees Report and Audited Accounts for 2019. 4. Election of Auditors. 5. The RLC Update. 6. AOB.

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THE SUSTAINER | NEWS

#WeAreTheRLC

Onwards and upwards for the only female Army drummer 6 Regt RLC organises record breaking pre ski training camps A total of 12 Regular units and four reserve teams attended Ex KNEES BEND, the Alpine technique and race specific training based in Hemsedal, Norway. This was the highest attendance to date.

110 officers and soldiers, including 56 novices, took advantage of the magnificent training opportunity with first class instruction and professionally organised race training.

Ex KNEES STRETCH in Obertilliach, Austria, saw a total of 113 officers and soldiers, from 11 Regular and four Reserve units take advantage of the Nordic ski training on offer. Instructors from the Corps, Kandahar racing and Mr Alan Eason from Snow Sports England provided the training. Both camps ensured that all units gained the necessary knowledge to succeed at the Divisional and Army championships and at The RLC Ski Championships.

At the first RLC dinner night to be held in the officer’s mess at Worthy Down, MGL on behalf of the Corps, recognised Pte Aung Khin’s time with the RLC Corps of Drums (CoD).

Pte Aung Khin was posted into the CoD from 9 Regt in Apr 17. She remains the ONLY woman to hold Class 2 in Drumming and Bugling from the Army School of Ceremonial, All Arms Drumming and Bugling Course. Something which she and the Corps, hold in high regard.

During her time in the CoD, Pte Aung Khin performed at the Lille Tattoo with The RLC Band and at both RLC 25 events. Pte Aung Khin has also deployed to Cyprus to support 27 Regt RLC for their Op TOSCA cocktail party and to Estonia

in support of KRH BG boxing night.

Pte Aung Khin was selected to go skiing as part of RHQ RLC Alpine Ski Team, where she conducted two weeks Alpine training in Norway.

Upon completion of her PNCO Cadre, Pte Aung Khin is posted to 600 HQ Sqn 6 Regt RLC.

The RLC Badminton Championships 2020 The RLC Badminton Championships 2020 will take place at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks Grantham 05 – 09 Oct 20.

The competition is open to all serving RLC Regular/Reserve officers and soldiers, regardless of ability.

Events include: Inter-Unit Team (RLC

Cup), Novice, Mens Singles, Ladies Singles, Mens Open Doubles, Ladies Open Doubles, Mens Unit Doubles, Veterans Doubles, Mixed Doubles, Mens Plate And Ladies Plate.

For more information contact: Cpl Netra Bahadur Gurung, RLC Badminton Secretary on: Mil: 94222 3110. Civ: 01252 348110.

MASTERCHEF 2020 - APPLICATIONS CLOSE 15 APR. Applications are now open for MasterChef: The Professionals 2020. Long established as one of the UK’s top culinary competitions, BBC 2’s show returns for its 13th series.

The producers are extending the opportunity to any RLC Chefs who may wish to enter this year’s competition.You can apply at: www.masterchef.com/professionals The Culinary Olympics 2020 RLC Chefs formed part of the Combined Services Culinary Arts team that secured a silver and bronze medal at this year’s event, held in Stuttgart in February. Over 2,000 chefs from across the world came together to compete in cooking’s largest competition.

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

RCT brooch returned by HRH The Duke of Gloucester HRH The Duke of Gloucester is downsizing and has been returning the various gifts and trinkets he has accumulated over the years. He has returned the RCT Badge Brooch which was presented in 1965 to his mother Princess Alice wife of Field Marshal HRH the Duke of Gloucester Earl of Ulster KG KT KP GCB GCMB GCVO ADC (P), Colonel in Chief of the RCT, The RLC Museum director, Maj (Retd) Simon Warmsley visited HRH The Duke of Gloucester, with Col Nigel Gilbert (RCT Association) to collect the RCT Brooch. All went well and they had a pleasant 25 minute chat.

The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester said they would be happy to see it displayed in The RLC Museum or for it to be auctioned at Christie’s, where it might attract a good price, with the proceeds from the auction being used by the Corps’ Charity.

THE NEW VETERANS’ RAILCARD

Cpl Leon Hinds has added a European Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Gold to his World Masters title.

He was the star, of the Army team at the IBJJF European Championships in Lisbon, Portugal, winning the Master 2, Super-heavyweight category. This follows his win at the World Masters competition in Las Vegas. He is the only athlete to win Gold for the Army in a top-level IBJJF tournament; a feat he has now achieved three times in his first year as a purple belt. The Army team continues to grow and hosts monthly open training sessions in Aldershot.

A new railcard will help veterans save almost a third on most rail fares, benefiting more than 830,000 veterans who do not already qualify for existing discounts.

On sale from 11 Nov 20, the railcard will help open up employment and retraining opportunities and enable veterans stay in touch with friends and family.

The railcard will cost £21 for a limited period, before rising to £30.

“Discounted train travel is a fantastic way to recognise those who have served this country, and the speed at which plans have been worked up shows how seriously we are taking our commitments to make the UK the best country in the world to be a veteran,” says Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Johnny Mercer.

An update on the Veteran ID card The roll out of Veteran ID cards has begun, albeit later than planned.

Personnel who have left the military since December 2018 will automatically be given one of the new ID cards.The cards allow veterans to easily verify their service to the NHS, their local authority and charities, helping them to access support and services where needed.

The MOD aims to launch phase 2 to the wider veteran community, as soon as practicable, enabling existing veterans to apply for a card. Information on how to apply will be released closer to the phase 2 launch date.

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THE SUSTAINER | 1917 – WORKING ON A BLOCKBUSTER

Andrew Robertshaw is a freelance military historian.

He is the former Curator of the RLC Museum. Andrew works for television and film productions and also acts as subject matter expert for military Battlefield Studies and is a member of the Guild of Battlefield Guides. He can also lecture on aspects of military history illustrated with real and replica weapons and equipment.

In the summer of 2018 I received an unexpected telephone call from a film producer. He explained that Sam Mendes was beginning the process of making a film, set in the Great War and that I had been recommended as a potential military advisor by both Sir Peter Jackson and Adam Sumner, who work for Stephen Spielberg.

I was, of course flattered, but what followed was a two-day series of interviews with the film’s producers before I met Sam Mendes himself. As part of this process I had signed a ‘non-disclosure agreement’ and was sent the screenplay with every page watermarked with my name to ensure secrecy for the film. I met Mr Mendes at Shepperton Studios at the end of the interview process; I had a surprise for him.The story was based ‘loosely’ on his grandfather, Alfred Mendes, who served on the Western Front between 1916 and the end of the war. had noticed that the film was dedicated to Alfred and this gave me his regiment and regimental number.

I used my background as a historian and as former curator of the RLC Museum to arrive in the office with Alfred’s full service record. I got the job!

What followed was an introduction to a variety of departments at the studios. Set Decorating, Props,The Armoury, Graphics and Costume. My first job was 12

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Making 1917: From the battlefield to the big screen

to produce a ‘Bible’ on weapons and tactics in 1917 that would be used to arrange platoons in action and provide the correct mix of weapons. I was fortunate that the costume supervisor as an old friend from ‘War Horse’ and together we devised the correct mix of equipment and insignia for the various units to be portrayed. In the dialogue it is mentioned that one of the principle actors was ‘at Thiepval’ and received a medal.This puts him at the capture of Thiepval Ridge in September 1916, by the 18th Division during the battle of the Somme.

Critically the same division was also in the area south of Arras in the spring of 1917, during the advance to the Hindenburg Line.

With this in mind, we selected 8th Battalion the East Surreys; a New Army Unit.The insignia was straightforward but the

8 1917 opening sequence trench signs

choice of equipment was more of a challenge. New Army units were issued with leather Pattern 1914 equipment, but the best available was the Web 08 equipment. Soldiers took the opportunity to ‘acquire’ it whenever possible because it was better and made the wearer look more like a regular. Hence, we chose to equip George, the actor, with a medal and 08 showing he clearly was an experienced soldier and Dean, the newer soldier, with Pattern 1914.

There was a question about the unit

8 Editing 1917

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1917 – WORKING ON A BLOCKBUSTER | THE SUSTAINER

insignia carried by Lance Corporals Schofield and Blake in the film.The production had selected 2nd Devons, who were in the area, but the village through which the pair would pass, was specified as Ecoust, South East of Arras. 8/9th Devons took this village in early April but the decision had been taken that it would be ‘The Second’ and the advice was not followed.

This point is critical to understanding a military advisor’s role in filmmaking. Directors will listen but if the historical facts stand in the way of the dramatic narrative you stand to be over ruled. In ‘War Horse’ one scene involves a pair of German howitzers being pulled up a steep hill by horse.The fact that those guns were only ever moved by mechanical transport and could fire over the hill would detract from the drama (to say the least).

As part of the process of developing the locations, for which models were built in every case, I had the opportunity to insert some logistics into the narrative. In the initial scene the two actors pass through a camp equipped with rations, cook houses and a laundry. As they go into the first communication trench they pass incoming mail being sorted and handed out for distribution.The production called for a full mile of trenches dug on multiple locations, which were spread from near Chesham, to Oxfordshire and then onto Salisbury Plain. Once we were on location my job changed. Paul Biddiss, ex Parachute Regiment, was the technical advisor and he dealt with weapon handling and movement, while I was there to be consulted on historical points. For me this involved providing briefings on the British soldier of 1917 to the Supporting Artists (SAs) - previously Extras - in the multiple ‘Boot Camps’ and on a couple of wet days giving talks on the progress of the war and the many myths that surround trench warfare.

On a day-to-day basis I would meet the SA’s as they arrived on location, by bus but on one occasion in cattle trucks, to do a check over of equipment. Despite this I noticed in the film that at least one soldier, in an important scene, lacked a very obvious bayonet scabbard.Webbing was often in the wrong place, respirators incorrectly worn and people issued with the wrong weapons. All of this was a challenge

8 Some 1917 Supporting Artists

with 50 or so people, but on days when there were three to four hundred on location, almost impossible. One feature of soldiers is their good humour and endurance.

This could be expected from Service men and women, but not low paid ‘Extras’. At one point on Bovingdon Airfield, the location near Chesham, when it was below zero, wet and with gusting sleet, I asked a group of the troops why they were prepared to put up with conditions.The answer surprised me.They all said that they weren’t complaining because if their day was bad at least they would be going home that night and no one was shooting at them! At least one of them said he had signed up because his great grandfather was in the trenches and he ‘owed it to him’. Quite a few of the crew took the opportunity

to ask me to research their family members, who had served in the Great War and there were times when the production felt like ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’. However, this shows to what extent the history had become important to many involved in the production.

Moments that stand out include Sam Mendes' speech to the troops after the last of many ‘over the top’ sequences. He thanked everyone for creating a critical point in the film and there was a spontaneous cheer. Sadly as the SAs went back to the crowd tent to hand in weapons, it struck everyone that ‘that was it’; we would never meet again, as 400 people with a common purpose. Many of the actors were more than a little confused to discover that their part in the film was ‘really’ one day. I also remember with some amusement the lorries on the road outside the replica farm. It rained the night before the shoot and although the vehicles all ran beautifully on the wet chalk the solid tyres simply revolved! Watch the film, they do not drive uphill!

1917 is not a perfect piece of military history, but is compelling drama that introduced a worldwide audience to a little know aspects of the Great War.The German retreat to the Hindenburg Line, open warfare and not so bloodthirsty generals.

8 Andy Robertshaw, Director Battlefield Partnerships Ltd 07768 065054 www.imdb.com/name/nm1579398/ www.andyrobertshaw.com

8 The 1917 field laundry set

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THE SUSTAINER | 1 SQUADRON 150

8 Painting by Anthony Cowland.

1 Squadron performing State Ceremonial Public Duties

1 Squadron Royal Logistic Corps is the oldest squadron in The RLC. Since its formation from elements of the Military Train at the Royal Artillery Barracks, Woolwich in 1870, as 1 (Depot) Company Army Service Corps, the Sqn has undergone several designations.

It become 1 Squadron, The Royal Corps of Transport in 1965, 1 Squadron, The Royal Logistic Corps in 1993 and then 1 Squadron, The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment in 2005.

2020 is 1 Squadron’s 150th Anniversary. To mark the occasion, the Officer Commanding, Major Nicholas Heppenstall MBE and his team planned a trio of celebrations.

On 8 Jan 20, 14 members of 1 Squadron deployed to Nepal to undertake an 180km arduous trek from Phedi to the holy temple of Muktinath; at almost 4,000m above sea level in Mustang District, this temple is one of four holy sites all Hindus and Buddhists should aspire to visit during their lifetime.

They were joined by Corps Colonel RLC, Col Colin Francis MBE ADC and Col Dominic Fletcher, who had been the OC of the Sqn in 2004, when it transitioned from British to Gurkha soldiers. The team was humbled to have this opportunity – 14

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Gurkha 150 the first time many of them had visited the Himalayas!

The second event was a Bhela (a commemorative gathering) which took place in the Gurkha Welfare Trust Welfare Centre, Kaski on 25 Jan 20. There was a mix of over 60

8 The khukuri dance

serving members, service pensioners and families who had travelled from across the country of Nepal to attend the memorable event. Additionally, OC 1 Squadron was hosted by Maj (Retd) Krishna Bahadur Gurung MVO MBE, proprietor of The Gurkha Museum.

There he donated money raised by the Sqn along with a painting of the Sqn carrying out State Ceremonial Public Duties in 2019.

The final element of the anniversary celebrations was bringing together, for the first time in history, all ranks from across the multiple designations that 1 Squadron has had, for a dinner night held in the Officer’s Mess at the Royal Artillery Barracks Woolwich, on the 15 Feb 20, the very anniversary of the formation in 1870. Included among the guests were Col (Retd) John Coombes, who was OC 1 Squadron, RCT at the time of its 100th anniversary; Lt Col Huw Williams MBE, who was a driver in 1 Squadron, RCT in 1983 and later, the Quartermaster of QOGLR; Col (Retd) Tony Barton

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GORE TROPHY | THE SUSTAINER

8 OC 1 Squadron, Maj Nicholas Heppenstall MBE with Col (Retd) John Coombes, the OC of 1 Squadron during the 100th anniversary in 1970

8 Members of the 1 Squadron RCT Association

who was the OC 1 Squadron on Op GRANBY in 1991; and Maj Gen Duncan Capps CBE, the senior serving officer within the 1 Sqn alumni. Additionally, there were a spectrum of soldiers and officers ranging from Gurkha soldiers, just nine weeks out of their infantry training at Catterick, to serving officers who had been part of 1 Squadron during the pre-QOGLR period. It was a truly special occasion where everyone, no matter what epoch of the Squadron’s history they had served in, what operations they had served on, or indeed what country they first came from, felt part of the same team.

Maj Gen Capps delivered a speech, taking us back to the very start of his career as a 2Lt in 1 Squadron and how the history and attitude influenced him in the years to come. Our host and the current OC 1 Sqn, Maj Heppenstall MBE, spoke both of the tenacity that has endured in 1 Sqn throughout its many transitions and of the bright future ahead.

He said: “We are all collectively, united by the fact that we have had the privilege to serve in the oldest Squadron within The Royal Logistic Corps. The phrase, ‘the whole is greater than the sum of its parts’, first coined by Aristotle, embodies the spirit of the Army and it is clear to me that 1 Sqn, like all great teams, really is greater than the sum of its constituent parts.

“I found myself therefore asking, what is the Sqn’s strength? How has it endured such change over the last 150 years? I’ve come to realise that over this time there

8 Maj Gen Capps formally unveils the Squadron’s painting by Anthony Cowland

8 A display by the 10 QOGLR Pipes and Drums

have been a number of enduring elements and these go deeper than the Sqn’s identity in terms of its role, or the race or religion of its soldiers. The strength of 1 Sqn is the character and tenacity of its soldiers, it is the empathy of its young officers and SNCOs, who have the confidence to display courage in their decision-making

and set an example to others.

Perhaps above all else however, the most important strength constantly demonstrated has been the sense of duty we have all felt and the importance we have placed on the idea of service – service to each other within the Squadron, service to our country and service to the Crown.”

Photography by Sgt Andy Reddy RLC/Crown Copyright

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS

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The Defence School of Logistics Commandant: Col John Atkins The New Year has brought even more positive change to DSL.The Royal Navy, the Royal Marines and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary are ‘moving in’ and teams from HMS Raleigh and the Commando Training Centre have arrived in Worthy Down (WD) already: the first RM supply course to be delivered in WD began in February. More RAF instructors have also joined us from RAF Halton.The Maritime Realistic Working Environments (RWEs) for logisticians and chefs are now complete and are outstanding additions to this school’s training facilities.

The newly re-titled Supply Chain Division (part of the Supply Training Wing and responsible for training the LS(S) trade) was honoured by the Command Ordnance Warrant Officer for the excellent work it has done to introduce new training opportunities at the Point of Need in our soldiers’ careers. I can only add my heartfelt thanks to WO1 Dave McNeill and the team for their outstanding work. Course delivery goes on in Marchwood, Brize Norton and Cranwell and each Sqn is examining ways to enhance training, including the use of simulation: Command Wing has taken the first steps to introduce simulation in the Tp Comds’ Cse and Defence Movements Trg Sqn is examining Virtual Reality training (73 Sqn has had a maritime simulator for some time now so are slightly ahead of the curve).

We are also celebrating with everyone selected for promotion recently: in Command Wing, Captains Lizzie Verge and Rob Charlesworth to Major. SSgt Sonya Jaffe and SSgt Ryan Rourke (85 Sqn) and SSgt James Carter (DMTS) to WO2. And huge congratulations to two people on the Pink List: Maj Ged Hennigan (now in the Falklands) and Maj Joe Petty AGC (SPS), OC of the AGC CLM Sqn. And finally, we have said a sad but fond farewell, to the Chief Instructor of Food Services Trg Wing (FSTW), Lt Col Fletch Fletcher, after 37 years of exceptional service.We are extremely grateful to him for all he has done to prepare the Wing for transition. He has also provided outstanding opportunities for his staff and trainees to develop their culinary and leadership skills and to help the Corps to recruit high quality people. He will be missed but he has left a lasting legacy, in the people that he has trained and mentored over the years. The same can be said of anyone who chooses to be an instructor in the Defence School of Logistics.

encompass all RN, RM, RAF and RFA supply training, with instructors from all services delivering the full range of logistic supply training to their students. This will present a superb opportunity to not only develop our instructors through their exposure to a far broader training delivery environment, but also opportunities to develop the individual courses currently being delivered by each of the Services.

Exciting times ahead for all personnel in STW and something all instructors are looking forward to immensely.

Supply Training Wing (STW - Deepcut) Chief Instructor – Lt Col Dutch Holland RLC Final preparations for the long-anticipated move of the Wing to Worthy Down at the end of March are taking place.They are being conducted while the normal frenetic pace of life goes on.The four divisions continue to deliver training in Deepcut, which has included the first batch of Combat Logisticians completing their LS(S) Class 3 course as trained soldiers.The new programme of courses for TY 20/21 is set to be delivered in the new college from mid-April.

The move will also see huge changes to the structure, direction and training output of the Wing, since it will

Pte Sadip caught up for lost time when he arrived at the Defence School of Transport and completed his Initial Trade Training (ITT) in just three months. Gaining his Cat B licence prior to joining the Army, he passed his Cat C in just four days and C+E in five days. This additional licence acquisition was one of the key reasons for joining The RLC as LS(S), in addition to the transferable skills he would gain as a supplier.

During the FAM training element of the Combat Logistician course, he was familiarised not just on the 6T SV but also Land Rover. He enjoyed the convoy drills training and the cross-country driving in particular.

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Pte Sadip Gurung – Experiencing the new Combat Logistician course and completing Class 3 LS(S) training as a trained soldier.

Pte Sadip Gurung attended the LS(S) Class 3 course, which he finished on 31 Jan 20. Already assigned to 7 Regiment RLC (68 Sup Sqn), Pte Sadip is one of our very first Combat Logistician trained soldiers to complete the course.

The third generation of his family to serve in the British Army, he was strongly encouraged by his Grandfather and his father, who served in 1 Royal Gurkha Rifles. Arriving from Nepal in 2005, Pte Sadip started his basic training at ATR Winchester in Feb 19. An injury at week six, meant he had to undergo two months of physio and rehabilitation training before finally passing out in Aug 19. During his period of rehabilitation, his strong desire to pass out and complete his training, along with the support from the staff at ATR Winchester, was what kept his mind focused on the job in hand.

8 Pte Sadip Gurung undergoing MJDI training on his LS(S) Cl 3 course

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TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER

8 TCC81 and staff of the AGC CLM Sqn alongside French colleagues at the Memorial of the Voie Sacree, Verdun

BCCS was cold. It took place in the second week of Dec 19, but he knew it was only going to be three nights long, so he was determined not be beaten by the British weather.

Pte Sadip was posted to 7 Regiment RLC in Dec 19 and moved into his own room. A keen sportsman, he has signed up already for the basketball team and has his name down for the cricket team – he is a left-handed player and may be one to keep an eye on!

Arriving in Deepcut to attend the LS(S) Class 3 course as an ITT complete soldier, has its benefits. He was able to bring his own car and has more freedom to come and go in his own time, which works well for him as he has family in Aldershot,Warminster and of course his father in Folkestone.

There will be no time for ‘skill fade’ now he has finished the Class 3 course. He is going straight out on exercise with his squadron!

Logistic Specialist Training Wing (LSTW – HQ and DPSTS in WD) CO – Wg Cdr Liz Corry RAF LSTW provides the broadest range of courses within the School: 75 basic, pre-employment and specialist training courses to circa 5,000 Initial Trade Training and Subsequent Trade Training logisticians per annum of varying ranks from all three services. We also train international students, civilian grades and defence industry partners. Training takes place across four squadrons based at: Marchwood (73 Trg Squadron); Worthy Down (Defence Petroleum and Specialist Training Squadron (DPSTS), Logistics Supply Training Squadron (LSTS)) and RAF Brize Norton (Defence Movements Training Squadron (DMTS)). As part of Project WELLESLEY, LSTS is in the process of relocating to WD from RAF Halton and is expected to achieve Initial Operating Capability in Apr 20. The training audience across the Wing, includes officers of The RLC and RAF Logistics Branch, as well as soldiers and airmen and women of the Petroleum Operator, Movements Controller, Mariner, Port Operator,Vehicle Support Specialist, Marine Engineer, Logistics (Supplier) and Logistics (Mover) trades.With the advent of Combat Logistician, DMTS has also received the first three trained soldiers from Leconfield who wish to become Movement Controllers.

Command Wing (Worthy Down) Chief Instructor – Lt Col Andy Moss OBE RLC Command Wing offers three snapshots of activity from the last quarter of 2019. Firstly, we report on Troop Commanders’ Course 81 (TCC81). Each course conducts a

battlefield study (Ex TIMBER SCHOLAR) which examines the logistic considerations of “Soldier First”, nil sine labore (‘nothing without labour’), innovation, resupply over the last tactical mile and interaction with civilian contractors.

There was an additional element for TCC81. Secondly, we report on the Wing’s support to Op ORBITAL, providing a STTT in Kyiv – a fascinating experience and a real challenge for the instructors delivering to a predominantly OF3-OF5 audience. Thirdly we shine a light on the extracurricular work of 85 Sqn, showing that the inculcation of quality in our instructor cohort, is more than a thorough understanding of doctrine and a DTTT course.

Ex TIMBER SCHOLAR (TCC81) In Nov 19, six CW staff (including members of the AGC CLM Sqn) and 26 students of TCC81 deployed on Ex TIMBER SCHOLAR. This battlefield study considered the Western Front of the First World War and involved in-depth study of the British and French sectors in the Somme and Verdun areas respectively.

The timing of this exercise was especially poignant as it coincided with the annual Armistice Day commemorations.The course departed earlier than normal

8 2Lts Tom Davies (on the left) and Tom Hare at the CWGC

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS in order to conduct a Field Service in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission ‘Norfolk Cemetery’ site near Amiens, where nearly 800 British soldiers are buried.This service was followed by a period of study around the battlefields of the Somme, where students had the opportunity to analyse concepts and themes relevant to them as officers and logisticians. A short move to the Verdun battlefields was concluded by a stirring visit to the French memorial to the Voie Sacrée near Verdun, where the course was privileged to be joined by Col Lescofitt and Capt Nabet, both of the French Arme du Train.

Ordinarily the course would return to Worthy Down at the conclusion of the field study phase of the exercise, but TCC 81 was offered the opportunity to conduct twinning activities with their French Army counterparts from Les École Militaries de Bourges. This is the spiritual home of French Army Logistics and the base from which their equivalent to the TCC is delivered.What followed was an extremely beneficial day of exchanging lessons and ideas by both students and staff as well as an opportunity to learn some French Army procedures on their virtual training suite. Finally, and perhaps most beneficially, the course was able to develop bonds of fellowship with their French comrades through the tried and tested method of a PT competition. TCC81's Ex TIMBER SCHOLAR proved to be a varied and extremely compelling event.

8 The TCC81 learn about the first day on the Somme at Newfoundland Memorial

Ukraine STTT Oct 19 saw a small team from Command Wing deploy to the Ukraine in support of Op ORBITAL, together with Ops Offr 3 Regt and RTO 4 Regt. The five-strong team was based at the Ivan Chernyakhovsky National University of Defence in Kyiv. Over two weeks, they were responsible for training an audience of 50 tri-service Ukrainian personnel up to the rank of Colonel in logistic operations.

This was a demanding course, requiring the translation and explanation of some complex subjects, not least the convoluted command relationships that exist in NATO. During this highly-successful training mission, both sides learnt a great deal, drawing praise from the 3-Star Ukrainian Head of Logistics and leading to a request for more of the same. The trip was not all work though, as the UK team took the opportunity to visit Chernobyl, site of the worst nuclear disaster in history; after all there is always an opportunity for a bit of CBRN training!

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8 STTT 2819 (Maj Ben Palmer, Capt Brenda Morgan, Lt Col Andy Moss, Capt Andy Nicholls) with senior Ukrainian delegates in Kyiv

There is significant scope for developing UK instructors on such a STTT task. All instruction was via an interpreter; a useful training evolution. There was a requirement to unpack technical and doctrinal jargon in the simplest way possible. This is challenging in areas where Ukrainian doctrine has no easily-translatable equivalent. The training audience were steeped in Soviet doctrine and obviously not familiar with NATO concepts and terminology. This means that the instructors need to dig deep into their professional knowledge and to develop the ability to communicate concisely under pressure.

In addition to developing instructional techniques, this was an opportunity to get a glimpse of a military culture much different from ours, while supporting an operational Defence Engagement task.While hard work, the team enjoyed the experience. Finally, the opportunity to see a foreign city well off the tourist trail and to absorb some of its history, has made the instructors more informed officers.

85 Training Squadron The focus of 85 Sqn is very much on the impending transition from Command Leadership and Management (CLM) training to the Army Leadership Development Programme (ALDP). The staff have worked very hard to review and implement a new syllabus for a pilot course that was run by the Sqn in Sep 19. Since then, the JNCO and SNCO CLM training teams, led by SSgts Sonya Jaffe, Peter Poole and Ryan Rourke, have been contributing to the further development of the ALDP. They continue to make suggestions as to how it will look and be executed throughout the Army. The pace of this work will accelerate in the first quarter of 2020.

Not content with representing The RLC in the development of a pan-Army programme, the Sqn contributes strongly to the third strand of the Chief Instructor’s intent – establishing the Command Wing as a visible player in the Worthy Down community.

Christmas involved a very enjoyable and busy social period with 85 Sqn taking every opportunity to get involved with activities ranging from the SNCO v Officer football to Cpl Phillip Watson putting on a very successful Macmillan Coffee Morning for all the staff in WD, raising £324 for cancer research.

Finally, the Sqn JNCOs are encouraged to organise Continuous Professional Development events. The Sqn had a great day in London recently, when they visited the Royal

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TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER

8 Sgt Sergio Heredia and Cpl Phillip Watson with Mr Gallagher from the RHC

8 Pte Stacha Bicar presents her cake to a 96-year-old 8th Army veteran at the RHC

Hospital Chelsea. The day was led by Cpl Ashley Davies who planned and coordinated the visit. The highlight of the visit was the unique and personal insights from 67year-old Mr Gallagher, one of the In-Pensioners who guided us around the hospital.

A look at the life of an RLC Catering Instructor Sgt Iain Tress RLC I have been an instructor at FSTW since May 19 and have found life as a SNCO Catering Instructor a really enjoyable job. Taking a small group of trained soldiers through the Defence Chef Basic (DCB) course is highly rewarding. The culinary skills phase of the DCB course is 12 weeks long and in that short period of time we equip our chefs with all the fundamental cookery skills that they will need in their first appointment. Mentoring the students plays a big part in the job and helps them manage the stress of dealing with a steep learning curve.

The qualifications gained from teaching at the Wing are necessary and worthwhile. The Defence Train the Trainer course (DTTT – known as ‘D Triple T’) allows instructors to achieve an NVQ level 3 in Adult Teaching with the opportunity to progress to a level 5 Coaching and Mentoring qualification.

Like other units, FSTW still gives the opportunity to conduct Adventurous Training and last year the Wing travelled to Germany to complete activities including kayaking, rock climbing and canyoning. The opportunities to travel are available here as much as they are in the Field Army. Last year alone, FSTW instructors deployed to: Afghanistan as part of a STTT; Paris to work in the British Embassy; New Zealand on Ex LONG LOOK; Gibraltar leading catering support for an exercise in Morocco and I deployed to Norway, delivering Catering Support for the Royal Signals Nordic Ski Team, so there is never a dull moment.

All in all, life as instructor can be fast-paced but is highly enjoyable at the same time and I would fully recommend anyone thinking of becoming an instructor to enquire about availability as it is a fantastic place to work.

Food Services Training Wing (FSTW - Worthy Down) Chief Instructor – Lt Col Fletch Fletcher RLC As the Combat Logistician initiative got underway, there was a brief pause in trainee throughput at FSTW.The unexpected space in the diary was filled with some fabulous training and travel opportunities for the instructors. Cpl Ryan Elsbury, from the Duty of Care team, deployed with the Royal Gibraltar Regiment as an acting Sergeant to an exercise in Morocco; Cpl John Bagudu travelled to the Falkland Islands; several chef instructors developed their culinary skills at the London restaurant ‘45 St Jermyn Street’ and the Chewton Glen Hotel; and the SMI, WO1 Jamie Edwards, conducted an audit on behalf of Army HQ in Kenya.There was also the opportunity for some skills development for a group of trainees who had the privilege of making Christmas cakes for the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

The cakes were presented in early December, much to the delight of the In-Pensioners. As we enter 2020, SSgt Peter Moffat entered a team of young chefs into a cookery competition against civilian counterparts at a local college.

The team did exceptionally well, bagging various gold and silver medals. No mean feat considering two of the team are still on their apprenticeship!

After many years of planning and preparation, the Wing is looking forward now to welcoming the Royal Navy team from HMS Raleigh and all the new opportunities this will bring as we become a Tri-Service training wing. Ahoy there, shipmates!

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THE SUSTAINER | TRADES: PORT OPERATOR

By WO1 Mark Davies It is with great pride that I write my first article as Head of Trade.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my fellow Port Operators for their can-do attitude and professionalism.

Delivering real effect, be that in the remote BFSAI location where we have been delivering since the conflict, to the present-day disaster relief operations. I must also give thanks to the home bank operations within the SMC, to the Quay Foreman, WO2 Mckechnie and all those maintaining the port operations and spine for live tasks throughout defence and beyond.

It does not go unnoticed.

I look forward to meeting with as many of our SP as possible in my tenure and welcome feedback on the challenges faced on all levels.

I engaged with Col Dagless (Trade Proponent) at a Professional Development meeting where we discussed the Nationally recognised NPORS accreditation and further accreditation through the Defence Awarding Organisation (DAO) One of my initial visits to vessels being loaded within the SMC reinforced the need for a drive on some key MHE qualifications.

This was again reinforced due to 1/5th of the Regimental deploying on DEFEUR20 and a need to reshape our SOTR programme to meet our demands. I would like to take the opportunity to thank DCLPA and particularly key personalities within 73 Trg Squadron for their support on this.

I conducted the initial invaluable RECCE for DEFEUR20 as part of the

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Delivering real effect

8 Disaster Relief Operations in the Caribbean

8 The trade has a positive can-do attitude

TEG where we engaged with our US counterparts and walked the route from departing the SMC and the route throughout Europe.

We have a substantial number of our Port Operators posted throughout the Corps including Sgt Beaney as the CAL SNCO, Sandhurst. Our live tasks have seen us working with many other units within the Corp and the wider Army.

Disaster Relief Operations in the Caribbean have seen unprecedented storms throughout the region, delivering devastating damage. Our SP were on hand delivering our niche ship to shore capability directly where it is required.

BFSAI and the Mighty 460 Port Troop continue to deliver real effect.

In 2019, WO2 Tonu handed over the Quay Foreman role over to WO2 Andrews and WO2 Sprake is now holding this proud position within Trade.

We also have our Ships Warrant Officers (SWO’s) onboard the Bay Class, with SWO, WO2 Mckerrell coming to the end of his two-year post in 2020. We also have WO2 Mayor a SPSI within our sister reserve unit 165 Port & Maritime Regiment, covering one of the positions for an interim period.

We will be challenged by the significant number of deployed personnel on DEFEUR20 whilst still maintaining all our other commitments, however I hope we can still manage to compete on the sporting field.

I look forward to meeting you all.

Continue to look after each other and represent our trade well.

8 Port Operators are posted throughout the Corps

8 WO1 Mark Davies

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TRADES: LOGISTIC SPECIALIST (SUPPLY) | THE SUSTAINER

By WO1 (Cdr) Daniel Winfield Fellow trades men and women of Logistic Specialist (Supply) trade, as Head of Trade I have the pleasure of writing to you all. We are considered the backbone of the British Army, responsible for supplying 125,000 items of materiel and equipment to continuously support the Army in 500 locations globally.

Our role includes the procurement, storage, forecasting demand, tracking and management of the Army’s £11.3 Bn forward held inventory, which is the largest and most complex supply chain within the United Kingdom. Logistic Specialist (Supply) are employed throughout the entire supply chain, from strategic base to first line, including the provision of intimate support to Special Forces.

To achieve this the Logistic Specialist (Supply) trade has seen significant development over the last 12 months. A review of trade training and critical needs analyst progressed with 14 new courses being developed at pace to deliver “point of need training” in accordance with their promotion profile and role, whilst having the opportunity to gain academic qualifications throughout their career.

Supported by accreditation throughout, the trade courses have increased capability and provide opportunities which allow our tradesmen and women to progress in their professional development. It is pertinent to note that this significant advancement would not have been possible without every one of you and notably the continued commitment and

Backbone of the Army

engagement of those involved from Land Warfare Centre and Defence College of Policing and Administration. I have seen firsthand the benefits these new courses are now delivering on recent unit visits.

The more specialist qualifications such as the Advance Inventory Management Course have been developed, for those employed within provisioning roles in REME Stores Sections and second line Custodian Accounts.

Data management, exploitation and forecasting modelling are all key to trade advancement, no longer as a trade can our primary role be considered manual skill set.

Defence is conducting modernisation and transformation at pace and we must seize opportunities to strategically place individuals at the heart of any

8 Sgt Klogo conducts data analysis of Army Inventory

supply chain transformation.

Under programme, like the Army Support Chain Initiatives, we have led the way in Defence to better understand forward held with inventory. Within the Army Support Chain Initiatives more progress was made in 2019 to ensure continued employment and SQEP for our LSS personnel remain at the right level to enable them to manage inventory both in peace time and ultimately preparing for the contingency operations. This saw the establishment of Custodian Accounts in 10 QOGLR and 27 Regt RLC. Inventory Management Cell (IMC) continue to expand in various divisions and brigades such as 6XX, 1X and 101X with establishment of Brigade Fulfilment centres (BFC).

I would like to thank you all for your professionalism and approach in delivering daily across the defence supply chain, be that in strategic base or on operations.

Notwithstanding your continued support, be assured all your efforts are not without notice. As Head of Trade, it is my intention to continue this work into the future.

8 The recent Army Inventory Control Tower board meeting

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21

THE SUSTAINER | TRADES: SYSTEMS ANALYST To The RLC, the Systems Analyst (SA) trade is just a small part of what is a very capable organisation. But the effectiveness that the trade has brought to the larger Defence picture is bigger than you would expect for such a small body of individuals.

The story of the trade goes back to the late 1950s, where the Army had started to embrace new technologies, which included the use of computers. The RAOC became the industry lead in digitisation with the introduction in 1962 of the first stores system.

Prior to 1976, RAOC officers were primarily responsible for the design and development of new IT systems within the Corps. However, with the growth of demand and the ever-growing popularity of automating supply processes there was a limit to suitable candidates to fill the role. This resulted in the first OR becoming involved, being WO2 (SQMS) Alan Chapman, the first recorded Programmer/Systems Analyst.

Since then, the trade has grown to 30 Warrant Officers who have been involved in the development of a large amount of applications and systems shaping the current logistic systems used today.

Changes to the Army in the 1990s meant a large part of the supply chain was contracted out to civilian industry. This changed the role of the SA, who became focused on deployed support for operations and exercises.

The day to day responsibilities of

8 WO1 (SSM) Blackwood with Rtd Col Robert Herdman, Master Programmer, ADP Bicester in 1972

22

#WeAreTheRLC

Shaping logistic systems

By WO1 (SSM) Terry Blackwood – Senior Systems Analyst

the SA trade now include level 3 incident resolution for MJDI, SEESUPS, VITAL and OLIVER. The configuration, deployment and support to the systems hardware and peripherals. This includes deployed servers for joint deployment, a large pool of CIS hardware, including the Field Service Packs (FSP), which enables access to logistic applications anywhere in the world.

8 WO2 (SQMS) John deploying Log IS in OP CABRIT

The SA is also responsible for the deployed support of other applications including JAMES deployed, LogFAS and GoldESP. Additionally, the trade provides user familiarisation training and acts as the SME for FLCs when planning the logistic IS footprint for the multitude of exercises and operations.

The last decade has been a very busy time for the trade, with support to operations being paramount. The introduction of MJDI to the Tri-service has kept the trade busy with the deployment and installation of servers and Logistic Information Deployed Hardware worldwide.

Since 2019, the SA trade has been involved in the upgrade of

8 SSgt Ridley and Sgt Smitheringale installing MJDI onto a Royal Navy frigate

MJDI to 11G on deployed servers worldwide, including the Royal Navy fleet. The upgrade to the FSP network required SAs to deploy in support to operations, including OP CABRIT. The team have deployed to locations such as BATUS, BATUK, Venezuela and Sudan to name a few.

The SA trade was recently approached by RHQ The RLC with a view to providing technical advice, guidance and support relating to the move of an internal IT system from Deepcut to Worthy Down. The task in question was deemed extremely important by the RHQ as the system in question underpinned a number of outputs from the Secretariat that stemmed from finance, to benevolence and support to the regular, reservist and veteran community. Whilst the task did prove to be more complex than originally anticipated due to the need to engage with a number of external stakeholders, the small team of SA used their in-depth technical expertise and knowhow to overcome the issues and restore connectivity in a short period of time, much to the appreciation of RHQ The RLC 2020 brings new challenges this includes the technical refresh of MJDI, which will see SAs deploying once more worldwide in support.

The replacement of the new HandHeld Devices in place of the aging MC9090 will start in the summer.

The organisation is also going through change and by June it will be moved under the command of 13 Signal Regiment.

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#WeAreTheRLC

CAREER MANAGEMENT | THE SUSTAINER

YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL Career management team RLC soldiers - SO1: Lt Col Stewart SO2: Maj Brown WO1: WO1 Neilson A message from the SO1 Soldiers This issue of The Sustainer is focusing on The RLC’s trades, training, as well as professional development opportunities. At the APC we are responsible for your career once you have completed your Subsequent Trade Training (STT), through to your discharge.

The big focus for us, as directed by the two star General, is retention. More of our day to day business is focused on Posting Preference Proformas (PPP), movements boards and finding the right fit for our soldiers, as best as we can, whilst satisfying the needs of the Service. It’s a tough gig, but we can assure you our Career Managers try their best. A part of the attempt to support retention for those who maybe considering leaving the service is, we will always look at the possibility of ReTrading. If a soldier has the prerequisite qualifications or skill set we will always offer Re-Trading as an option.

Re-Trading/Transferring. Such is the variety of employment within The RLC, that Re-Trading and Transferring are key to our Corps’

DIDyouKNOW Ammo Techs & Marine Engineers DO you want £2000? READ ABN 101/18 – Engineering Professional Recognition Award manning. Section 3 of RLC soldiers branch are a team of long-serving and hardworking civil servants whose entire job revolves around the art of finding people alternative employment in The RLC. The Corps remains as popular as ever and although we are undermanned as a Corps, we are not in as bad a situation as most others. In 2019,

274 Number of successful re-trades and transfers to the RLC in 2019 Section 3 successfully completed 274 transfers, of which 130 came from RLC soldiers wishing to re-trade within the Corps. This is a retention positive stat, because as a Corps, we kept those quality soldiers in the Army. The RLC

Ser

Trade

Rank

Criteria

Cse Length

1

Driver Comm Spec

Pte

SC, GTI>46

23 weeks

2

Driver Tank Transporter

Pte

Cat B, C&E

3 weeks

3

Petroleum Operator

Pte

Cat B, GTI>47,

22 weeks

4

VSS

Pte - LCpl

Cat C&E, GTI>40

Variable

5

Logistic Specialist (Supply)

Cpl

MJDI, AA Storeman

Variable

SPRING 2020 – Key Dates Key Dates

Event

Action

14-20 Mar

BATUK Unit Visit

Serving in Kenya? Get yourself on the roadshow presentation.

31 Mar

Cpl SJARs due at APC

Cpls, check your JPA. Has your report made it to the board?

2 Apr

SSgt Promotion Board results

Available to all on the MS Web at 0900hrs.

11 – 15 May

Cpl – Sgt Board sits

No action required.

1 Jun

LCpl SJARs due at APC

LCpls check your JPA. Has your report made it to the board?

4 Jun

Sgt Promotion Board results

Available to all on the MS Web at 0900hrs.

remains popular across all cap badges as a transfer destination.

We successfully transferred 100 infantry soldiers in the Corps last year, which brings a welcome variety of experience into our ranks.

The remaining 44 successful transferees came from a healthy selection of the remaining cap badges, the next biggest groups coming from the AGC, then the Armoured Corps.

100 Number of Successful Transfers to the RLC in 2019 from the INFANTRY Pioneers. A great example of a Re-Trading “good news story” in The RLC, is that of the Pioneers. Due to the trade being discontinued, a career path now no longer exists for the Pioneer tradesman that remain. No promotion prospects, no Pioneer tied jobs. Of the Pioneers we have left, 18 are in the midst of re-trading, putting their army careers back on track. They will once again be able to promote and as an added bonus, they bring their existing skills into their new trade!

What can you do? As a 1 LO, or part of an RLC Sqn attached to another cap badge, YOU are the front line in our recruitment activity.

You sit in the NAAFI and hear the moans and groans of the other cap badges. Why not leave a copy of the Sustainer lying around and encourage people to read all about what our Corps gets up to and all the opportunities available for potential re-traders!

Vacancies across the Corps can be found at the Official Army Vacancies List (OAVL), which can be found at the following link on the MS Web, under Jobs Lists; https://modgovuk.sharepoint.com/ teams/2678/Job%20Lists/SitePages/ Home.aspx

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE The definition of a career is an occupation undertaken for a significant period of a person's life and with opportunities for progress.

Driving a heavy goods vehicle professionally is one occupation, which given the average age of HGV drivers in the UK (54) may not, for many who do it, fall under the true definition of a career.

Pte Fern Cookson is from Fleet in Hampshire. She left school after completing GCSEs and a BTEC in public services. Choosing not to follow her friends and embark on another five years of higher education, she looked around for work in her local area. She says: “There wasn’t much around and I wanted to start a career, so I looked at the Army and realised there were so many career options to choose from and decided to join.”

Pte Cookson was not old enough to join as a regular soldier and had to follow the junior soldier route and attended the Army Foundation College in Harrogate. “When I joined up, I wanted to serve with the Kings Troop, as I used to have my own horse,” she explains. “I was told I couldn’t as there weren’t any vacancies, for my year, so was offered The RLC. The trade that appealed to me was driver, as you can get good qualifications and there are lots of career and travel opportunities.”

During Phase 2 training at DST Leconfield, she gained her Cat C and C+E driving licences and a Level 2 in Driving Goods Vehicles.

She was posted to 44 Support Squadron RLC. The unit primarily

#WeAreTheRLC

Professional Driver How many nineteen-year-old young women can boast Cat C+E and D driving licences and a career as a professional driver, where the sky’s the limit? Peter Shakespeare reports

provides transport support to the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS). The Sqn operates around 100 pieces of equipment ranging from cars, pick-up trucks, Land Rovers and coaches; to MAN SVs, a couple of 8x8 DROPS vehicles and a forklift. The OC is Maj Kevin Carpenter. Kevin joined the Army as a private soldier in the driver trade and was commissioned as an LE Officer from WO1. He says that 44 Sqn provides one of the best starts for soldiers embarking on a driving career. “The squadron is very much centre stage as far as

8 44 Sqn operates 100 pieces of equipment

The RLC is concerned. It is the first time that most of the Army’s future leaders come into contact with ‘real’ soldiers. We have 60 other ranks and they are all ambassadors for our corps and the Army. It was the case that we only took second tour soldiers. Now we accept soldiers straight from Phase 2 training, but only the best will be considered. We are regularly complimented about the professionalism of our drivers and we hope that when the Officer Cadets experience working with RLC soldiers, it will encourage them to apply to join the Corps.

“I was ‘in trade’ up to the rank of Cpl. Promotion is linked to specialist qualifications, so a Cpl in the driver trade will be qualified as a Class 1 Driver, have achieved a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Driving Goods Vehicles and a Level 3 Certificate in Logistics and Transport. I diversified from the driver trade and followed the instructional route. Having worked in various training establishments, including here at RMAS as a platoon staff sergeant.

I returned to my trade as a WO2.

8 Roadworthiness and compliance are key

24

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#WeAreTheRLC

ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

8 Drivers conduct basic servicing

8 Pte Cookson also holds a Cat D licence

8 RMAS's drivers represent the RLC

You can serve your whole career in roles linked to your chosen trade, but if after nine years on the vehicle park, you fancy doing something else, the Corps will accommodate you. Now I am commanding a squadron, I served in as a soldier.”

Pte Cookson continues: “We are not just trained to drive. We learn vehicle maintenance and do basic servicing, like changing oil and fuel filters, engine lubricants, wheels, or replacing wing mirrors. You can do the civilian driver CPC and transport manager’s CPC and go onto learn about transport planning, running a transport office and vehicle availability management.” Maj Carpenter adds: “The management of vehicles and

adherence to roadworthiness regulations and compliance with road traffic law, is regularly audited and the responsibility for policing this rests with RLC driver trade Warrant Officers, who hold the position of Master Driver. There is one at each formation headquarters from Brigades up to Divisions and then the Command Master Driver at Army HQ.” Now she is has been in the Army for nearly three years, we ask Pte Cookson whether she is in it for the long haul? “The great thing about being a driver in the Army, is you are not driving every working day.

On exercise you could drive for six days in a row, but back in camp, it could be one or two days driving a

week. The rest of the time will be spent cleaning and maintaining the vehicles, doing physical training and sport. I spent three months skiing, have been adventurous training in Germany, which included rock climbing, white water rafting and hill walking.

I was also sent on a course to get my Cat D, coach licence and I did my combat health course so I can do things like test and purify water so it is fit for the soldiers to drink when deployed.”

“This posting is for four years and there are good opportunities for promotion here. I am currently on a 12-year contract. I am really enjoying it so, having done my first three years I will definitely stay on.”

Maj Kevin Carpenter

Pte Fern Cookson

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25

THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE

By Pte Spencer, 29 Regt Pte Spencer joined the Army as a junior soldier at 16 and attended the Army Apprentice College in Harrogate. Originally from Lancaster The RLC and the Movement Controller trade were her first choice. She says she was attracted to it by the travel opportunities and the level of responsibility she would be given even as a Private Soldier. The Army appealed as a career because she didn’t want to follow the crowd and go to college only to end up working in a stereotypical job for a woman.

Now aged 18 and working at the Joint Air Mounting Centre in South Cerney, Pte Spencer works on passenger and freight flights, ensuring passengers are checked in and looked after through to boarding and transfer to the flight at RAF Brize Norton. On flights allocated to her, she ensures all freight is checked in, is correctly packaged, is within weight limits and accounted for and all paperwork, including import and export documentation, is correct.

Recently she was attached for four months to British Forces Brunei. Pte Spencer says: “This small garrison, consisting of a Battalion from the Royal Gurkha Rifles, the Jungle Warfare Division, 7 Flight AAC and a large selection of other cap badges making up the Garrison Support Unit, which I was attached to.

“Getting to Brunei involves a flight from Brize Norton to the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. I was greeted with intense humidity and the hustle and bustle was immense and immediately I understood that I had been thrown into a foreign situation in a foreign country. Ordinarily you would expect to have a period of acclimatisation, but straight away I was immersed into the processing of freight and liaising with Bruneian Customs agencies to offload my delayed flight. This was a unique position as I was the most junior soldier on the flight, but I was entirely responsible for the correct processing of the huge amount of vital kit and equipment for the Garrison. However, this did not bother me, as I benefited from 26

#WeAreTheRLC

Appealing career

gaining previous experience on Ex GRYPHUS TRAIL, which also required constant interaction with both customs and the exercising units.

“After settling into my new role, I rapidly started to switch my mind to dealing with sea bound freight in preparation for the inbound ship, Anvil Point, with over 250 tonnes of ammunition, several vehicles and other freight required by the Resident Infantry Battalion, 7 Flight AAC and the Jungle Warfare Division. On docking, I was fully embedded within the Port Task Group and was responsible for the collection and sorting of the shipping paperwork (Bio certificates, application for shipping space and standard shipping notes). This then reminded me how important the Movement Controller trade is, as the Port Task Group could have failed, if we didn't arrange transport for containers to

8 Gaining experience of the Bell 212 with 7 Flight AAC

be collected, book space for containers travelling back to the UK or if paperwork wasn't correct.

“Whilst in this amazing place, I was exposed to so many opportunities.

I completed the team medic course, deployed into the

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Sustainer SPRING 2020_Layout 1 10/03/2020 20:27 Page 27

#WeAreTheRLC

ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

13 & 14 M AY 2 0

jungle with the training team to learn reading maps in the jungle.

This was an intense situation as the entire map is just green! I was taught how to read the ground and how to rely on the use of contour lines and other ground features.

Part of my experience involved creating an emergency winch hole for the Operational Tracking Instructors Course. I also managed to see how military tracker dogs and their handlers were employed in such an arduous environment.

“7 Flight AAC invited me to work alongside them and their Bell 212 helicopters, acquainting me with stage 1 briefs and how to ‘en-plane’ and ‘de-plane’. This covered the hazards expected with the Bell helicopter. This aircraft is only used by the British Army in Jungle environments, so it was great experience for me as the majority of passengers are unfamiliar with the aircraft.

“Whilst deployed to Brunei I had the opportunity to explore the region and experience the culture of SE Asia. I managed to visit a wide variety of places, such as bathing

8 Meeting some swimming elephants in Bali

with elephants in Bali, taking a boat trip around Phi Phi Islands in Thailand, visiting the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, experiencing the busy lifestyle of the Philippines whilst in Manila and I managed to immerse myself in the Grand Prix in Singapore. Brunei is perfectly situated to offer a sublime opportunity to travel and to experience the varying lifestyles of East Asian culture.”

As far as professional development is concerned, Pte Spencer says, while in Brunei, she gained valuable experience booking flights through the civilian system and dealing with the civilian airlines, in addition to taking on responsibilities not normally expected of her rank. These are not tasks she would do at the JAMC. She says dealing with civilian flights is easier than military ones as personal documentation such as passports must be in date and held. It is not unusual on military flights for passengers to turn up without ID cards or the MOD 190s to be out of date.

She says the four months spent in Brunei was a simply fantastic experience and she is now ready for her next adventure. She is aiming for promotion and would like to return to Brunei on a two-year posting as a Corporal. But Movers are posted to all parts of the world, where the Army has a presence, in order to get personnel and equipment there and back. So she can look forward to a wealth of opportunities to see even more of the world.

INTER UNIT ORIENTEERING CHAMPIONSHIPS LONGMOOR TRAINING AREA

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27

THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE

#WeAreTheRLC

Life as an Ammunition Technician I am LCpl Healy. I am an Ammunition Technician serving in 721 EOD Sqn, 11 EOD & Search Regiment RLC. A single day as an Ammo Tech in the Regt is incredibly varied. There are a lot of duties, training and general day-to-day jobs like you will find in any other unit. Like many other units across The RLC we are constantly busy. The only difference within our role is we are also working at an operational pace, as we strive to support the civil authorities dealing with explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) across the UK. Whilst conducting Immediate EOD duties, you are on ten minutes notice to move, ready to drive anywhere within your Area of Responsibility (AOR) in support of the civil authorities. The vehicle we use is a highly modified 9-tonne DAF lorry (EOD Van/Wedgewood). Although the vehicle is coming to the end of its service life, the MT Department works exceptionally hard to ensure that it is kept on the road.

A typical call-out will take you through a mixture of rural and urban

environments, whilst travelling on blue lights, driving defensively through rush hour traffic, to a remote location or a building site that you have never heard of or knew existed. On one call-out, we went to an industrial site in Herefordshire where someone had found three WW2 grenades, which had found a home under a tanker containing 7000 litres of diesel. Just what you want on a cold, wet and windy Thursday evening in November! As with many jobs it’s likely that you or the operator have never been to the location before,

8 A text book first parade

but as with every job you must navigate your way there and locate the police, who are waiting for you to resolve the situation.

That was all very high adrenaline stuff, but five hours before that drive to Herefordshire, I was inspecting ammunition containers.

Although this can be a mundane part of being an AT, it is a vitally important task. These containers had only been collected the night before from a police station in Kidderminster and a result of someone in the town clearing out their Grandad’s attic. The other part of my role is processing reports from previous incidents. This is a fascinating part of the job, as you get to widen your situational awareness and understanding of what else has been happening in your AOR. All in all, my role as an Ammunition Technician at 11 EOD & Search Regt RLC is a complete other world from my previous civilian jobs. I have only been in the trade for two years and have had countless unforgettable experiences including deploying on Op SHADER. I look forward to progressing in my career and trade to become an EOD Operator.

8 Bomb truck Jenga

28

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#WeAreTheRLC

ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

By Maj RJ Crane MBE RLC – SO2 CSS As the inaugural report from CSS team at British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) is published, we wish to highlight the far and wide reaching activities that Corps members enjoy here in Kenya. There are opportunities open to 10 RLC trade groups.

This demonstrates the diversity and importance of RLC postings, both permanent and temporary and the near unrivalled experiences available.

The last six months have seen Movement Controllers and Port Operators working in Mombasa and Ammunition Technicians operating in Somalia. Our Supply Specialists, the MD and Ammo Techs climbed Mt’s Kenya and Kilimanjaro. The Drivers played in both the Diani Beach Tournament and the Nairobi Sevens. Many others have donated their time and efforts in community engagement projects supporting local Kenyan communities and also the BATUK Panto in which The RLC demonstrated some of their hidden talents. The event was performed to both local children and the BATUK families, raising over £750 for local charities.

The RLC opportunities in Kenya include: • The BATUK Ordnance Warrant Officer (BOWO). They are responsible for providing assurance to BATUK Commander and enforcing policy on all logistic matters.

• The Movements team consists of one MCWO and two LCpls (ATLO). The team is boosted by surge personnel from 29 Regt RLC for the exercise phases.

• The Logistics Support Specialists provide second line support to BATUKs QM, REME and MT departments. They provide D&G to all deploying CSS elements – a role that see’s some real time supply work.

• The Ammo Techs are essential to the success of BATUKs training.

They provide the required level of expertise on a day to day RLS mode, as well as supporting both the many exercising troops and the local Kenyan Defence Force on all AT related matters.

Trade Opportunities in the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK)

• The BATUK Postal Section provides postal and courier support to all deployed service personnel, dependents and exercising troops.

• The Master Driver provides assurance to Commander BATUK for an extremely large vehicle fleet of over 750 green fleet platforms and 300 white fleet vehicles.

• RLC Drivers support BATUK in various driver roles including MTWO, White & Green Fleet Managers, stores and admin roles.

• Chefs deploying to BATUK in a TDS role have two main objectives, supporting BG exercises and catering for 300 PS and TDS on a daily basis.

• Pet Ops provide quality assurance and fuel delivery to all BATUK locations and in support of exercises.

• Communication Specialists ensure BOWMAN kit is readily available and all platforms are fitted, tested prior to issuing to the BGs. • Port Ops and Vehicle Specialists deploy in support of the Movers, ensuring the bi-annual Maint Sail goes off without a hitch.

The next few months will see The RLC in BATUK finding the balance between work and play, The 2 LANCS SPIG exercise is on the

8 RLC Suppliers assisting the local community

horizon and there are opportunities to participate in upcoming events such as: The Great Grevy's Zebra Rally – a two-day photographic census to monitor the status and health of the endangered and iconic Grevy’s zebra, only found in northern Kenya, Ex ZULU PANGA – a battlefield tour to South Africa and other team building activities.

The prospects offered for both trade knowledge and professional development are the reason why so many choose to return as temporary staff and why the competition for permanent postings can be fierce. For any info on postings to Kenya email: ctg-batukcss-so2@mod.uk

8 Promoting road safety in Kenya

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29

THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE

#WeAreTheRLC

By Pte Casey Wright Driver to Helicopter Handler

Branching out in trade

Pte Casey Wright, 18, joined the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) in the Spring of 2019, as a 17-year old straight from Phase 2 training.

Originating from Wrexham, North Wales, Pte Wright was attracted to the Army because of the wealth of sporting activities. “I chose The RLC because it was so big on sports – you get plenty of time away to play”. Despite having no military background, she quickly managed to overcome the culture shock of basic training, passing out of Pirbright in Nov 18.

Within a few short weeks she was posted to the Defence School of Transport at Leconfield, and

started her RLC Driver Phase 2 training. Without having ever driven a car, she gained all her licences – passing them all at the first attempt. All at the age of 18.

On posting to JHSS, Pte Wright built upon her professional driver qualifications, quickly becoming a Rigger-Marshaller and soon after a Landing Point Commander.

Pte Wright also deploying to California for three months. “I really enjoyed it. It was good to be somewhere different and I learned more about my job – especially in the desert environment.”

On joining the Sqn, Pte Wright seized the sporting opportunities available, quickly joining the local rugby team playing as a winger and inside centre. Even though she had never played rugby, she has quickly grown to love it and went for a trial for the Army team.

Although she didn’t get through, Pte Wright was happy about her first trial: “There was so much

‘‘

I’ve always been very sporty, very active

30

experience on the trials – guys who had trialled before last year, who had played for The RLC; the experience levels were hard to match! But I'm definitely going to come back next time.”

Looking forward to the rest of 2020, Pte Wright is enjoying a new role in Sqn Ops; “I like to understand everything that is going on in the unit... I enjoy the responsibility, especially being so young.” Pte Wright is looking forward to qualifying as a PTI this year to capitalise on her aptitude for sport. She’ll also maintain her skills in her day job with upcoming deployments as a helicopter handler. And she is just as keen to stick to the rugby, having just been confirmed to play for The RLC, her ambitions to play on the Army squad are stronger than ever.

So what is her message to young soldiers in their first couple of years serving with The RLC? “Don’t be lazy, don’t get complacent and grab every opportunity with both hands” is Pte Wright’s advice – sound advice and mature beyond her 18 years.

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#WeAreTheRLC

ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

Sgt Vikas Talwar joined the Royal Logistic Corps in 2009 as a Logistic Specialist (Supply).

In 2019, he re-traded to The RLC Systems Analyst (SA) trade and joined the Logistic Systems Support Team (LSST) based in Bicester.

I’ve always had a keen interest in the Systems Analyst (SA) trade and in Apr 19, I approached my Chain of Command to re-trade. I was invited to LSST for “An insight in the day of a SA” in Bicester, where I was introduced to the team and took the opportunity to ask questions.

I was impressed with the volume of work and the capabilities the trade delivers to not just the Army, but across Defence, with a team of just 20 people.

After a re-trade assessment to determine suitability, I conducted an initial interview with the SA Head of Trade.

Following an interview with The RLC RHQ SO2 SPSO, I was accepted for SA probation training in Oct 2019. I was on detachment from my parent unit and away from my family during weekdays. SA probation period was challenging, working long hours and learning new skills. The probation period involved completing in-unit assessments to meet training objectives, predominantly related to deployed Logistic Information Services (Log IS).

Simultaneously, I was given a topic to research on LINUX operating systems for delivery at the final stage of my probation. If successful I would become an SME in that subject area and assigned to the area of the team responsible for IT operating systems. The research took me to new and exciting territories, engaging with

By WO2 (SQMS) SLH John, Systems Analyst The Systems Analyst is a unique trade group within The RLC comprising of highly skilled, dynamic and effective Logistic Information Systems Specialists, who operate across Defence to deliver end to end Level 3 Support to Deployed Logistic Services. We are a small

An amazing trade

civilian and MOD service delivery partners and stakeholders.

In Dec 19, I successfully completed SA probation and qualified as an RLC Systems Analyst. I now can further learn new IT skills, work in a professional team, receive a pay rise (Trade pay - Supp 2), support

8 Sgt Vikas Talwar at work

exercises and operations worldwide and work with project teams. I can also now be posted with my family to Bicester where we can become part of the LSST family. Systems Analyst is an amazing trade.

WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN diverse team, predominantly made up from Logistic Specialists and some Communication specialist and Postal and Courier CEG. Recruitment opportunities are targeted at substantive Sergeants with a minimum of eight years return of service and of an RLC CEG.

Benefits include: Job satisfaction, a diverse role, pay increase depending on previous trade, a wide array of personal development opportunities and family stability. Interested candidates should contact WO2 (SQMS) SLH John, GPTN: 94240 5947

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE Swapping a 100-tonne Heavy Equipment Transporter for white fleet and staff cars, doesn’t sound that appealing. But two young and dynamic Driver Tank Transporter Operators, Pte Satta and Pte Barron-Edwards, joined the G4 Logistic Support team within Headquarters South West (HQSW) during 2019 to fulfil a variety of MT related roles. Both have now been selected for promotion to LCpl and have found their new roles, challenging, interesting and rewarding.

They have given personal accounts of their time within a Regional Point of Command (RPoC), a formation that delivers the Firm Base across the expansive South West region in addition to leading UK resilience operations at time of need.

Pte Satta – “My role within the HQSW has seen me drive Commander South West around the whole of the UK, often at short notice and sometimes at unsociable hours. No two days are ever the same and I have supported many different events including the National Armed Forces Day 2019 in Salisbury, where I helped coordinate the transport for the

‘‘

No two days are ever the same and I have supported many different events including the National Armed Forces Day 2019 in Salisbury, where I helped coordinate the transport for the parade

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#WeAreTheRLC

Driver Tank Transporter Operators on tour parade. I have also worked with MCI (Military and Civilian Integration) team supporting the setup and running of Military Insight Personal Development courses for college students to have a look at military life.

My main role is working within the White Fleet Transport Office and to provide support to the transport department (South West).

This has seen me deal with many different units across the South West on topics including speeding reports, RTCs and Loss Reports including total loss (i.e. cars being written off). Furthermore, during my time here, I have been able to acquire my Cat D licence to my FLRT qualification.

I have found that although I work hard, I am given lots of responsibility and benefit from both trips in support of the Commander in addition to professional development.”

Pte Barron-Edwards – “During my time in HQSW, I have learned a great deal. My role varies from booking vehicles, assisting in maintaining the HQ fleet to enabling the behind the scenes activity to keep the Army in motion alongside other agencies and figures in the public sector. Working as driver within HQSW does come with its downside such as last minute taskings, waiting for meetings/events to finish and working long hours across evenings and weekends. In my role I need to prepare well. This includes: route planning, traffic management, adherence to timings and all associated paperwork. On occasion I have deployed overnight or gone abroad and lived in hotels paid for by the Army.

I have enjoyed my time away from 19 Tank Transporter Squadron as it has been eye-opening and provided an environment to improve my knowledge and experience. I have enjoyed stepping away from my home unit and

‘‘

Whilst at HQSW I have been presented with various opportunities including a parachuting course, a start on achieving my D1 licence and a variety of courses to aid my career and development

comfort zone to learn something different and try a new challenge.

I now have new knowledge and skills to offer my Squadron upon return. I would strongly encourage soldiers to step away from their home unit to seek new opportunities and challenges.

Whilst at HQSW, I have been presented with various opportunities including a parachuting course, a start on achieving my D1 licence and a variety of courses to aid my career and development. I’ve worked hard and it has been professionally and personally rewarding – you just need to grab the opportunities when they appear.”

Life away from regimental duty can be a daunting prospect for some. But with around 40% of The RLC attached to other units and formation HQs across the Army and Defence, the Corps offers unrivalled variety of posting and location opportunities.

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ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

Feeding an Army on exercises and operations is a big job. RLC Chefs are trained to provide healthy food wherever they are and whatever the conditions.

They can be found in every unit, are posted all over the world and some go on to prepare meals at national and international culinary competitions and even for royalty. There are also opportunities to work on-board ships cooking for the Royal Navy.

So what really inspires young people to join the Army as professional chefs? Pte Natalie Williams and Pte Brandon Morrison recently completed the Defence Chef Basic (DCB) course. We tell their story.

Pte Natalie Williams Pte Williams comes from Grenada in the Caribbean and was a preschool teacher before joining the British Army. The idea of joining up came from her father and she was interested in becoming an RLC chef.

She submitted her application in Oct 18 and flew to the UK in Mar 19. She subsequently attended the Recruit Assessment Centre and was offered a place to train as an RLC chef.

Pte Williams completed basic training at ATR Pirbright and found the experience both physically and psychologically challenging, as she had not had long to prepare for the physical demands of army training.

With strong support from her family, she managed to complete training and worked hard to maintain a positive attitude. She found that adventurous training was a huge confidence builder.

Pte Williams started the Defence Chef Basic (DCB) course in Jul 19 and commenced her Production Chef Apprenticeship. She enjoyed her training, commenting that the instructors delivered all the training with absolute passion and dedication. This invigorated further her desire to be a first-class tradesperson. She also started enjoying PT more and is building her fitness levels prior to her first posting.

As the end of her training, she participated in a Christmas Cake workshop and competition and was fortunate enough to be selected to visit the Royal Hospital Chelsea for the cake judging. Her

Becoming an RLC Chef

dedication and enthusiasm for catering really shone through during the workshop and she was interviewed by BFBS radio where she discussed the cake making process and how she found it so interesting.

Her performance and maturity during training meant she was selected for a very high profile posting as her first tour. She is exceptionally proud of this achievement.

Pte Brandon Morrison Pte Morrison always wanted to be a chef. He was inspired by his father who was a great home cook.

Brandon was unsure of what route to take in order to achieve his ambition and initially went to a catering college. But this, combined

8 L-R Pte Natalie Williams and Pte Brandon Morrison

8 Trainees at the Royal Hospital Chelsea as the results of the cake decorating competition are announced. L to R Ptes: Kudakwashe Simbai, Brandon Morrison, Thomas Garner, Nabin Thapa, Adam Middleton, Randel Norbert, Natalie Williams, Annie Williams and Stacha Bicar

with the cost of daily life, was not enough for him. The RLC Corps Engagement Team, presented at the college and he learned about the benefits of joining the Army.

He immediately started the enlistment process.

Pte Morrison joined the Army to gain confidence and get into the work-place quicker than the civilian route. He was also attracted by the opportunities to undertake adventurous training and sport. He completed Phase 1 training and while finding it mentally and physically challenging, he says it showed him he could achieve things that he never thought possible. Pte Morrison completed the DCB course in 2019 and thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the training which included kitchen skills, field catering and Basic Close Combat Skills (BCCS).

Pte Morrison also completed a Christmas Cake, which was presented to the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Something he felt was an honour and he took much pride in baking. Pte Morrison is hoping to have a long career and is now posted to 30 Signal Regiment, where he intends to make inroads into some of the sports teams.

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE

By Pte Dan Eastlake I am a reservist serving with 266 Port Squadron, 165 Port & Maritime Regiment. My trade is Mariner Class 3. I wrote this account while deployed with, 17 Port & Maritime Regiment, aboard RFA Mounts Bay, as part of Atlantic Patrol Task (North). Our role was to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the islands of the Caribbean during hurricane season.

It was a six-month deployment and my role was as a member of the Mexeflote crew. The Mexeflote is a series of linked pontoons, which in its standard configuration forms an 18 cell raft. Mexeflotes transport stores, personnel and equipment from ship to ship, ship to shore. With two Thrustmaster 5.9-litre straight six turbo diesel engines, it has a max peacetime payload of 110 tonnes. It is controlled and steered with hand signals given to the engineers who operate the engines.

When Hurricane Dorian hit the Abaco Islands, it caused massive devastation. Hurricane Dorian was the most powerful hurricane ever recorded in the North Atlantic. Very slow moving, it took a long time to pass over the islands, resulting in catastrophic damage.

Within hours of the hurricane moving back out to sea, Great Abaco was the first area we were able to respond to. Arriving at Marsh Harbour, it was immediately clear just how much damage had been caused by the hurricane.

Damage, destruction and death on

#WeAreTheRLC

A Personal Account of Hurricane Dorian

a level, I and many of our crew, had ever witnessed. It immediately became clear just how desperate the survivors were. There was little or no fresh water available, limited medical supplies and little shelter available. Our first run ashore consisted mainly of these items. For me and many of the Mexe crew, this was the first time we had ever operated it outside of a training environment, so initially it was an exciting adventure into unfamiliar waters. Within minutes of landing on the island however, it dawned

8 Pte Eastlake

on all of us just what a serious a situation we faced. The people who remained on the islands had lost everything and to a certain degree their survival now depended on us and the aid we could deliver. The general feeling changed immediately to one of an extreme need to help these survivors in whatever way we could.

Our next priority was to land the HADR Troop (Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief). It comprises Commando Engineers from the Royal Engineers and Royal Marines and they began clearing roads with their heavy plant and other equipment, allowing the local emergency services to start to work and to restore power using mobile generators to essential buildings. A suitable beach, Treasure Cay, was chosen for the landing, but as there was no hard slipway to land them we deployed with our Port Operators and their trackway so they could make a temporary slipway on the beach.

Shortly after returning to the ship, we learned that Little Abaco, had 8 The first relief supplies landed

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ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

been cut off from the main island.

These people were in desperate need of help, having gone several days with no fresh water. Once again we swung into action. We had a limited supply of bottled water on board the ship, however the ship is capable of producing its own fresh water. The Captain explained the situation over the Tannoy and asked for volunteers to start to fill the soft plastic water containers from any available fresh water outlet aboard the ship. What happened next was amazing… It seemed every member of the ship’s crew, regardless of rank and service, was by a water outlet, be it on the flight deck, in the galley, in the bar, filling containers of water until every container was full. Once complete, the task of loading the Mexe began again, with many of us having had little or no sleep.

Usually the job of loading the Mexe would be down to our Port Operators, but with so much to be hand loaded, the whole ship’s company came together once again and human chains were formed to load whatever couldn’t be loaded using forklifts.

Once fully loaded we set off for Little Abaco. Arriving at Coopers Town, the destruction caused by the hurricane was abundantly clear. We had to make a slow and careful approach to the slipway, as the depth of water was inconsistent and there were several underwater obstructions that had to be avoided. Luckily we had a very experienced coxswain in Corporal Keogh, who throughout this deployment, always managed to get us where we needed to be, often in very challenging conditions.

Once we were secured to the slip way the task of unloading began.

There was a huge effort to get all the aid unloaded as quickly and efficiently as possible. This took place under the relentless Caribbean sun with humidity nearing 90%. Many of the ship’s company who were not on essential duties, came ashore in the ship’s fast boats to assist.

Once unloaded, we cast off and headed back for the ship, arriving several hours later. While we had been at Little Abaco, another area on the main island had been identified as having a good solid

slip way, secure storage area and even a warehouse that had stood up to the hurricane. The decision was made that we would concentrate on landing the remainder of the ship’s disaster relief stores here, as it would make an ideal distribution hub. HADR Troop was also working its way towards it clearing main roads as they went. Upon our return to the ship the process of loading started again. We left the ship’s dock in the early hours of the morning and headed off into the night. Two hours later we secured to the slipway to unload.

We were under the impression that once unloaded, HADR Troop would have arrived. However this was not to be the case as things changed at the last minute, so we headed back to the ship and reload the Mexe with the last of the relief aid, literally emptying the ship of every last pallet and box of aid. Then it was back to unload and recover HADR Troop and their equipment.

Sailing this time in daylight, made

8 The devastation from the air

the journey considerably easier to navigate and we secured to the slipway and unloaded the remainder of the stores. HADR Troop had managed to gain access to the warehouse, which amazingly, had very little damage.

All the stores were moved into the warehouse and we loaded HADR Troop’s plant equipment and vehicles along with our own and set course back to the ship.

Although for many of us we had worked almost constantly for the best part of a week with very little sleep, grabbing only an hour here and there and getting by on strong coffee and hastily eaten meals, there wasn’t a single one of us who would have complained if we had been asked to go straight back out again. Such was the need of the people of the islands we were there to help. I believe we all felt very proud, I know I did, to have been part of such a massive humanitarian aid effort.

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE

By Maj John Langridge RLC With the closure of British Forces Germany (BFG) in 2019, it is of great relief that Ayrshire Barracks in Monchengladbach, two camps in Sennelager and Wulfen will remain open for the foreseeable future, as part of Future Defence Presence in Germany.

SEF(G) is a vehicle storage site, which is an independent unit command on behalf of Army HQ. It currently stores in the region of 2100 different platforms with most being in a Controlled Humidity Environment (CHE) and split between two fleets, the Stored Operational Fleet and the Sustainment Fleet. It employs ten military personnel (six x RLC) and some 74 Locally Employed Civilians (LEC). Ayrshire Barracks also provides several lodger units with a location to work, such as Defence Equipment Sales Agency, the Labour Support Unit, the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Babcock and others.

As well as OC you are also Head of Agency for employment of LEC’s, head of establishment and completely independent.

2019 has been a particularly busy year for the team here at SEF(G). In the early part of the year we received in over 100 platforms from QRH, PWRR and1 Med Regt as they were all leaving Germany and returning to the UK or Cyprus.

We have hosted exercising troops from 10 QOGLR using Ayrshire as a Convoy Support Centre (CSC) on their way through to Sennelager, to undergo live fire training. The US Forces have used Ayrshire twice this year as a (CSC) to get their

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The Stored Equipment Fleet Germany (SEF(G))

troops in to Poland. We have supported various training serials, from 5 Bn REME undergoing Ex DRAGON REVIVAL, 142 SQN VSS reserves on Ex MARLBROUGH WARRIOR and Ex VIGILANT GUARDIAN to name a few. Various project teams have been in and out throughout the year upgrading platforms with newer technologies.

SEF(G) has been actively engaged in the support of preparation of equipment’s for Op CABRIT and was involved in the outload of equipment’s as part of TRACTABLE 19. Throughout the year we have had various visits from COS RC, Comd BFG, Comd BAG, Comd 104 Bde, 3 Div, 12 Bde and various commanding officers from different regiment’s and battalions. The highlight being 104 Bde’s terrain walk, where we briefed on various

8 SEF(G) holds 2100 vehicle platforms

stands to the 60+ officers in attendance. Over 600 issues or receipts of vehicle platforms have been conducted this year, which is significant; all whilst maintaining 900+ platforms at R5. Finally, we handed over 100+ vehicles to the newly formed Land Training Fleet in Athelone Barracks, Sennelager, which next year will see troops from the UK exercising on the fleet in Sennelager.

Throughout the year, SEF(G) has organised events to raise monies for the RBL and McMillan nurses as well as boosting LEC morale by providing a pop-up kitchen once a month with themed lunches.

In Sep 19, five military members of the team deployed to Cyprus on Ex DIAMOND NEPTUNE, which was a type three sailing expedition.

This was enjoyed by all who went with a cultural visit on the last two days ending in Paphos.

SEF(G) is isolated and independent but offers the benefits of being based on mainland Europe for travel and a cultural experience, including all the benefits of service overseas. More importantly, it is enduring for the foreseeable future and I would recommend this post to any whom are seeking a challenging but rewarding role under Army HQ. 8 Ex DIAMOND NEPTUNE

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THE RLC FOUNDATION | THE SUSTAINER

8 The winter lecture concentrated on global supply chains

The Royal Logistic Corps Foundation is the focus for engagement between the Corps, industry and academia; sharing best practice, knowledge and mutual understanding amongst logistics professionals.

The RLC Foundation has just launched a Book Review Club.

In future, The Sustainer will contain book reviews by volunteers from the Corps, on subjects of logistic and topical interest to enhance professional learning throughout the Corps.

The RLC Foundation programme for 2020 got underway on 30 Jan with the Winter Lecture at The Bell, St Omer Barracks, Aldershot.

The Lecture concentrated on ‘Global Supply Chains; A new environment, emerging priorities and new requirements’. Our guest speakers for the evening were Richard Hunt, Chairman of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and a past CO of the Engineer Logistic Staff Corps and Richard Wilding, Professor of Supply Chain Strategy at Cranfield University. Against the backdrop of

The RLC Foundation uncertainty post Brexit, the supply chain challenges that lie ahead will test our logisticians greater than ever before in terms of risk profile, supply chain terrorism, cyber security and digital revolution, to name a few. The post lecture debate with healthy audience participation was testimony to an excellent evening lecture. It was thoroughly enjoyed by over 70 attendees. Our sincere thanks to 27 Regt RLC for its excellent support throughout.

On 26 Feb, TVS Solutions ran a ‘transition’ workshop event for RLC service leavers. This event concentrated on how to prepare RLC personnel for transition to civilian life. The thrust of the event was to give some generic support to RLC service leavers, with a sector-specific dimension based on their trade skills and expectations.

By popular demand, we now plan to hold another ‘transition’ workshop later in the year and

details will be promulgated in May. These workshops do not undermine the good work that CTP and OA already provide for triservice leavers, it just gives our people a bit more on top.

On 9 Mar, the D Group UK Defence held an event at its offices in Grafton Street, London.

The event focussed on on the ‘relationship between industry and the military’. The UK is a world leader in integrating industry into its defence supply chains - for supporting platforms and weapon systems, providing communications and in creating the logistic network to deliver to troops and overseas.

But just how much more could industry do for defence and what are the risks? Read our website post to find out.

Future Events: 23 Apr – DHL and Army Log Sp ‘Reducing Logistic Need’ event 5 May – Wincanton ‘innovation’ event.

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THE SUSTAINER | BOOK REVIEW

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This edition of The Sustainer, features the first in a series of book reviews. The brainchild of The RLC Foundation, the reviews are aimed at promoting continual professional development. Some leading influencers in the Corps, past and present, have been asked to review literary works they have read, that tell stories about managing and overcoming logistical challenges. Their reviews will contain their impressions of the works and they have been asked to point out any lessons highlighted that relate to challenges that face or will face the military logistician.

And include food for thought!

People at every level can benefit from professional development and lessons learnt at the grass roots level are as important as those affecting global logistics strategies. So if you know of a good read or have read a book that you feel could benefit or inform other professional logisticians, The RLC Foundation would like to hear from you. Please email: Chrissie.Ross100@mod.gov.uk The first review is by the Chairman of The RLC Foundation, Maj Gen David Shouesmith.

DEEP SEA AND FOREIGN GOING Inside shipping, the invisible industry that brings you 90% of everything.

By Rose George Portobello Books, 2013 This book reads as a series of journalistic feature articles, taking the reader through the complexities and realities of the global container shipping industry, which accounts for some 90% of the world’s physical trade movements. The analysis is set in the context of the historic romanticism, and hardships, of maritime life and sets out how the shipping container, in the space of a short few years in the late 1960s, came to dominate the global freight industry. It illustrates how the industry’s infrastructure (ships, ports, inland transport systems and global data networks) also transformed to enable shipments to be executed and tracked through multiple customs points, shipping agents and merchants.

The author also exposes a darker side to this industry; though sitting at the heart of the global trading 38

network it is unseen by most; seafaring standards have dropped and the opacity of ownership, flags of convenience and the multi-tiered charters combine to make apportioning responsibility and accountability something of a challenge. She writes of the two ships lost each week through poor maintenance, and the two thousand lives lost annually through accident, sinking and negligence.

The contrast with the much more visible air freight sector is stark.

Also unseen is the pollution (which dwarfs that emitted by the airline industry) and the physical impact on sea-life – notably to whales in the North Atlantic.

There are some interesting “so what’s” for the military logistician in this book. Firstly, whilst technology often brings rapid and disruptive change and benefits, some of the longer term costs and risks are harder to discern. Alongside the cost, velocity and precision benefits the container has heralded, have we fully understood the longer term network risks and the impact on

people and the environment? Have we opted for quick cost savings and convenience but ignored the more complicated downsides?

None of this is a reason not to adopt technology, but we need to do so mindful of all the costs and risks over time, especially when our nation’s strategic commercial and defence interests are at stake and especially so as the UK forges its post-Brexit economic future.

How do we ensure the quality and reliability of our maritime network?

While the Royal Navy’s protective presence is one aspect, what measures are needed to preserve UK access to the civilian shipping needed to support future expeditionary operations at scale?

What is the role of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary in all this? Air transport is highly responsive but cannot shift volume when needed. And what of China’s pivotal role in driving the global shipping economic model?

Has the UK adapted to these changes commercially or militarily, or are we just holding our breath that all will be ok on the day?

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MUSEUM | THE SUSTAINER

Museum Musings

By Maj (Retd) Simon Walmsley Director, The Royal Logistic Corps Museum RAOC Civilian Clothing Depots – The “Demob Suit” At the end of WW2 some five million servicemen and women had to be demobilised through a series of specialist depots that were established across the UK. Most were staffed and coordinated by the Forming Corps of The RLC. After gathering at Military Collecting Units, soldiers were batched and sent onto Military Disembarkations Units and finally to Dispersal Units, although later these were combined and often co-located. They were spread across all regions of the UK so that soldiers could be released close to their final destination and to reduce congestion.

At these units the soldiers had their discharge paperwork completed and were de-kitted. One of the final units they visited was an RAOC Civilian Clothing Depot (CCD), where they exchanged the uniform they were wearing for civilian style clothing, known affectionately as a “demob suit”.

8 Arriving at the depot

8 Selecting a hat

Each soldier could choose either a double-breasted pin-stripe threepiece suit, or a single-breasted jacket with flannel trousers. He was entitled to a hat, be it either a conventional fedora or trilby or for those who preferred it, a traditional working man’s flat cap. Two shirts (with matching collar studs); a tie; a pair of lace up shoes and a raincoat completed the ensemble.

Clothing was sized and labelled in a similar way to military uniform, together with the War Department 'arrow' marking. This was detached once the suit had been accepted. The soldier was also asked if they wished to keep their army greatcoat and if so, it was debited by the Regimental Paymaster when their account was finally closed. The demob suit was often the first proper suit many soldiers had ever owned and as soldiers left the barracks “spivs” would offer £5 for the full outfit; a tidy sum in those days.

Many of the demob suits were made by the Leeds firm of Burtons, who also made a quarter of all British military uniforms during WW2. Burtons was established and run by Montague Burton who first started trading in 1903. Knighted in 1933, Burton was actually a Lithuanian Jew who fled pogroms in his country of birth, to build one of the biggest clothing chains in Europe. It still survives today. When a soldier is dressed in all of his

demob clothing including, his shoes, shirt, suit and hat, he was deemed to be wearing the “Full Monty”.

Eventually most of the CCDs closed and the few remaining took on additional responsibility for issuing ceremonial uniforms and were retitled Ceremonial and Civilian Clothing Depots RAOC. One of the last Civilian Clothing Depots in the UK was 2 CCD RAOC based in York which closed on 15 April 1948 after issuing nearly one million demob suits. At its height it was staffed by just over 200 soldiers and five officers and one day over Easter 1948, it is reputed that one soldier every 12 seconds passed through its doors.

8 Choosing a suit

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THE SUSTAINER | THE ARMY PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

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ARMY PHOTS The current role of The RLC photographic branch has many facets. It provides a worldwide media capture capability in order to promote and protect the reputation of the British Army along with providing specialist operational photographic training to a variety of other departments and regiments.

In the past 12 months, the RLC’s Army Photographers have been employed in over 25 countries.

The 2019 Army Film and Photographic Competition saw both professional and enthusiast army photographers enter 700 still images and 90 video productions, representing the best photographs and moving imagery taken in 2019, in the hope of scooping one of the coveted awards.

Unique in the history of the event, The RLC’s Cpl Rebecca Brown became the first female soldier to win the top professional award: British Army Photographer of the Year.The 29 year old, from Beverley in Yorkshire is a former combat medical technician with 4 Armoured Medical Regiment. She won Best Pro Portfolio and was a runner up in two other categories.

Professional category winners Portfolio: Cpl Rebecca Brown RLC Best Army Image: Cpl Nick Johns RLC Portrait: Cpl Jonathan Adams RLC Story: Cpl Ben Beale RLC Soldiering: Cpl Nick Johns RLC Sport/Adventure Training: Sgt Ben Maher RLC Open Video: Cpl Ben Beale RLC The RLC also produced an amateur category winner, in Cpl Danny Houghton for his portfolio.

The RLC’s Army Photographer trade relies on internal transfers.

Applicants must be substantive LCpls with two recommendations for promotion to Cpl. 40

Pro Story winner - Cpl Ben Beale 'Trident Juncture 2'

Pro Portfolio winner - Cpl Rebecca Brown 'Welsh Warrior'

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Pro Portrait w

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THE ARMY PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION | THE SUSTAINER

Pro Soldiering and Best Overall Image-winner - Cpl Nick Johns 'Take Knee'

Pro Sport/AT winner - Sgt Ben Maher 'Desert Tango’

rait winner - Cpl Nick Adams 'Gurkhas Guard’

Amateur Portfolio winner - Cpl Danny Houghton 'Accuracy'

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

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1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BICESTER CO: Lt Col N Crew OBE • Adjt: Capt E Thompson • RSM: WO1 A Parker The fourth quarter of 2019/20 has been another busy period for 1 Regiment with support to Op TRACTABLE, an awards night and continued sporting successes achieved in multiple fields.

2 CS Squadron In October, 2 CS Sqn was given the task to support Op TRACTABLE 19.

This involved facilitating the movement of the QRH BG equipment to Tapa camp, Estonia.

It was a mammoth journey of approximately 2000km, offering an excellent opportunity to practice TTPs and interoperability with host nation forces.

Empowerment was a key theme of Op TRACTABLE and as such a JNCO was tasked to take charge during each leg of the move. Each move was done at night with no electronic forms of communication or navigation, ensuring basic skills were tested to the highest order.

The entire move went without incident, eventually arriving in Tapa Camp after 11 days to complete the in-load of equipment to the QRH BG. 12 CS Squadron 12 CS Sqn has experienced a period of significant high tempo, supporting a multitude of exercises including Ex IRON VIPER; the Bde ME. This provided a great opportunity to further refine STRIKE TTPs and empower the JNCOs to command their sections on the ground.

Given recent Regtl’ success in both trade and on the sporting front, an awards night was held to recognise excellence over varying fields. A highly successful event, 12 CS Sqn saw success through multiple awards including, the highly coveted Rhino Trophy.

With the year ending, 12 CS Sqn, under the direction of Cpl Tomlinson, engaged in a community outreach programme to support those less fortunate over Christmas. This involved the soldiers gathering and providing clothing and volunteering at a soup kitchen, providing hot meals for those in need.

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Looking to the future, 2020 looks like a busy year as the Sqn prepares for BCS and Ex PRAIRE STORM 3 & 4, in addition to further developing the STRIKE concept and TTPs. 23 GS Squadron Focusing on UK support, 23 GS Sqn has begun to shape the evolution of the Regt’s support to ASCI. In support of new dependencies that have resulted from a changed 1 AI Bde Orbat as it transitions to STRIKE, a fresh focus will see the Sqn project its capability both further and more frequently.

Outside of barracks, the Sqn under the lead of Lt Blythe, planned and executed an entertaining AT package for the Regt utilising the RLC Lodge in Lower Gillerthwaite.

74 HQ Squadron This period saw trade and soldier training a prominent focus for 74

8 Pte Harrison winning the 3 Div Christmas Cake competition

8 2Lt Andy Myers and SSgt Bradley Holdaway with Polish host nation counterparts in CSC, Poland Sqn. Comms Troop’s preparation for the BCIP 5.6 uplift included several ‘Train-a-Trainer’ courses, ensuring the successful training of 81 personnel.

BOWMAN training led by Cpl Jameson means the Regt can now look forward to utilising the BCIP 5.6 equipment on exercises throughout 2020. In addition, LCpl Mensah conducted a Defence Train-a-Trainer Course for six personnel, furthering 74 Squadron’s training capacity.

74 Squadron’s Catering Dept saw Pte Curry win ‘Best Chef’ in the Regimental Awards Night and Pte Harrison win the 3 Div ‘Best Christmas Cake’ Competition – 1st of 80 entries! Additionally, LCpl Cheese took home a silver medal in the street food category at the Major series competition as part of the British Army Culinary Arts Team at Eastleigh College.

Congratulations go to Cpl Cole for raising £845K for the RBL over the remembrance week – an incredible effort. The Sqn was also successful in promotions; congratulations go to WO2 Khan for promotion to WO1 and to WO1(SSM) Steen for selection for a Late Entry Commission.

74 Sqn remains heavily involved in boxing and 2020 brings numerous training opportunities ahead of another exciting year.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

3 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col G Wincott • Adjt: Capt R Ritchie • RSM: WO1 G Millar 3 Regiment RLC has enjoyed a well-deserved quiet last quarter, following a very busy 2019.

Providing support to Op CABRIT 5 has been a main focus for the Regt.

From October 2019 to March 2020, soldiers from Herring Tp, 31 Sqn, deployed to Estonia on Op CABRIT 5, in support of the Enhanced Forward Presence QRH BG. Alongside counterparts from 19 Tank Transporter Squadron, 27 Regt RLC, the soldiers were responsible for the transport and movement of all BG vehicles and equipment. For many soldiers it was the first taste of a tour, and a great experience for them.

The Troop arrived as Op TRACTABLE was coming to an end. This allowed the soldiers to work in conjunction with the 4 RLC drivers still in theatre, moving ISO containers and vehicles to Paldiski Port, ready to get shipped back to the UK. From there, the Troop supported the main BG deployment onto the nearby Central Training Area and subsequent sub-unit exercises all over the country.

December saw the departure of the French No 5 Coy, with the Troop assisting in moving the majority of their ISO containers to the port. The

8 EPLS enjoying the first snows of the Estonian winter

Troop then enjoyed a welldeserved break over the Christmas period, enjoying BG festivities and a visit from the Prime Minister.

At the start of the New Year, the Troop helped the Danish Company arrive to replace the French contingent and then moved straight into cold-weather training.

Run by the Royal Marines. The Cold Weather Operator Course (CWOC) gave the soldiers an insight into operating in harsh weather environments and also living out of a survival shelter, utilising the natural resources in the area.

The main event of the tour was the BG deployment to Latvia at the end of January, to complete a week long-range package in Adazi ranges. Deploying ahead of everyone else, the Troop was solely responsible for the movement of ammunition, targetry, fuel and rations for the whole BG. A few soldiers were then detached in support of the Royal Artillery Battery in theatre, moving 155mm ammunition from the ammo compound direct to the gun line, to simulate a warfighting scenario.

Outside of all the hard work, the Troop has been able to explore the JOA, visiting Helsinki and Riga on leave weekends. Although having been promised temperatures of -30 Celsius and a harsh Baltic winter,

8 The first movement of vehicles in support of Op TRACTABLE

the weather has remained relatively mild, allowing to Troop to explore more of the country that would normally be out of reach because of the weather.

The Troop is now coming to the end of the tour and gearing up to complete the final task of moving ammunition, ISOs and vehicles in support of the RRF relief in place into theatre. All in all a great tour, and a fantastic experience for all those that deployed.

8 The Troop undergoing snow chain familiarisation in preparation for the icy weather

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4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col C Yates • Adjt: Capt S Kennedy • RSM: WO1 D Phillips

Ex IRON VIPER 33 (GS) Sqn deployed a Bde Log RV Troop in support of 4 Bn REME to test the concept of the BSG Forward. Sqn personnel injected logistics expertise into an ES focused Bn and were heavily engaged with the BHQ. During the exercise, the Bde Log was fully operational 24hrs a day, providing the Bn the support it required. The Troop also acted as the end loop for 10 QOGLR, which was being tested on its ability to supply the BSG. The exercise was conducted in urban environments. One challenge was the lack of space, which resulted in the Bde Log RV being split across two sites within a large business park.

Army Combat Power Demonstration (ACPD) This year’s ACPD saw 4 (CS) Sqn, under the command of Maj Matt Tyers, representing and showcasing Close Support Logistic capabilities on Salisbury Plain to a multitude of organisations. The Regt successfully established a functional Bde Log RV and demonstrated a Distribution Point to highlight the intricacies and logistics of moving supplies through a theatre.

Ex BLACK EAGLE As a finale to 2019, 4 Regt complete, deployed on its regimental CT3 exercise to MOD Sculthorpe in Norfolk. The Regt tested its ability to secure itself from both a hostile enemy force and a desperate local populace that attempted to interfere with our equipment and supplies. In addition, the Regt was required to function as normal despite the constant threat, receiving simulated 44

Credit: Cpl McKenzie

As 4 Regiment RLC comes to the end of its second consecutive year of readiness, it has experienced a busy quarter. The Regt continues to be committed to deployments around the world on operational tours, exercises and Defence engagement taskings.

loads and pushing them forwards to dependent units. Work continued around the clock as the unit continued to supply its real-life dependents through the Custodial Account with no drop in output – a fantastic achievement.

Ex KNEES BEND In Nov 19, ten soldiers from across the Regt deployed to Norway for the annual RLC training camp to develop their skiing. Soldiers are divided into ability-based groups and given intense coaching in order to equip them with the skill-set required to race. Towards the end of the two-week period, skiers then compete against one another to qualify and become seeded for the Divisional and Corps competitions.

Several soldiers had never skied prior to the Ex, yet qualified for the divisional championship.

60 Sqn QOGLR The Regt marked the redesignation of 60 Sqn to QOGLR, with a regimental parade held in Oct 19. The Colonel Commandant of the Brigade of Gurkhas, Lt Gen Sir NAW Pope KCB CBE, inspected the parade. Afterwards, a buffet

8 The 60 Sqn re-designation parade lunch of traditional Nepalese snacks was held and a Ghurkha themed dinner night was hosted in the Officers’ Mess for guests and all corporals and above. Furthermore, as a symbol of the multicultural nature of Abingdon Station, Dalton Barracks now has a Hindu Temple and Buddhist Gumba. On 15 Jan 20, local dignitaries, members of the Regt and the local Nepalese community attended the opening of the facility by Maj Gen A S Fay CB (Colonel of the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment). The entire event was a thrilling display of Nepalese culture and the Regt’s ‘One-Team’ ethos.

Looking forward Although the Regt will soon be ending its tenure at readiness, it must ensure its soldiers are properly trained, so the first half of the year sees a series of CT1 exercises focused on the basics of soldiering. Additionally, the Regt is preparing a team for the shooting season with the hopes of outperforming the strong performance of last year and it will also be sending two teams to compete in Nordic and Alpine skiing at Divisional and Corps level.

Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@4RegimentRLC) to remain current on Regimental activity.

8 4 Regt has seen a busy Ex period

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6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DISHFORTH CO: Lt Col L A Green • Adjt: Capt T M Furlong • RSM: WO1 G Sumner The focus for 6 Regiment RLC at the end of 2019 in the run up to the Christmas period was on community engagement. The Regt is actively involved with the local areas and activities included the LAD and HQ Sqn helping the local National Trust sites with their Christmas displays, as well as preparing the local town of Boroughbridge to welcome thousands of visitors during the Tour de Yorkshire cycle championships.

In addition, implementing healthy habits and sticking to them has been a core theme for 6 Regt.

Maximum participation has been encouraged on the NHS vitality survey, a study designed to explore the health risks impacting personnel. Repetition of this study will allow the trends to be formed over time, tracking progress of the Regt’s soldiers and ensuring that life satisfaction, work life balance and recommendations for improvement are implemented.

Everyone that completed the survey was entered into a draw to win a t-shirt and use of a Garmin watch that they were encouraged to wear on PT. Exercises Ensuring that professional effectiveness is top priority, 62 Sqn conducted Ex DRIVE UP 2, an exercise to ensure both the Driver and LSS trades are fully compliant with how to use, maintain and inspect vehicles that the soldiers

8 Skiing has produced phenomenal success for the Regt

8 6 Regt have been crowned Nordic and Alpine Champions and overall Divisional Champions

8 Cpl Mars receives his Vitality T-Shirt and watch

will be using whilst deployed in upcoming months.

As well as various individual worldwide deployments, the majority of 64 Sqn deployed on a LFTT range package to Scotland honing their marksmanship skills on both SA80 and GPMG ensuring they are fully prepared for the upcoming regimental deployment on Ex WESSEX STORM. The main focus for 600 HQ Sqn has been Ex JERBOA CAST in Germany from early Jan 20.

Comms troop ensured the vehicles needed were in situ before the Christmas stand down period with the advance party deploying straight from the New Year fireworks! A successful two-week period followed where the LBSG worked under 7 Brigade Commander alongside the QDG, 1 R Anglian and 2 R Anglian Battle Groups on the first Super Cast of 2020.

The QM department took the lead on Ex KNEES STRETCH and Ex KNEES BEND, the Alpine and Nordic

training camps in Norway, before the monumental success achieved in the Divisional Championships in France with the Male team winning every race less the patrol race. A fantastic achievement culminating in them being crowned Nordic and Alpine Champions and overall Divisional Champions.

After qualifying for the Army Championships they immediately took the GS competition by storm and were crowned Army GS, Slalom and Super G Champions for the second year running, with individual successes for WO2 Macpherson and Pte Wilson. Congratulations to LCpl Ryan from the Female team who individually qualified for the Army Champs too. All in all, skiing has produced phenomenal success for the Regt.

In other news, Nov 19 saw DComd FdLog Brig Belkinsopp visit the Regt to present LSandGC awards, as well as various Commendations and Operational Tour medals. Well done again to all the individuals who received these awards.

Dec 19 brought the news of promotion for Capt Jon Daulton and Capt Eddy Foster who were successful on the Beige list as well as WO2 Parker, WO2 Palmer, WO2 Hilton and WO2 Walton who were all promoted to WO1.

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7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COTTESMORE CO: Lt Col J Edwards • Adjt: Capt D Tookey • RSM: WO1 A Newham 7 Regiment RLC has enjoyed a busy and rewarding period of diverse challenges, testing the Regt’s trade and soldiering skills in demanding conditions, as well as pushing sporting and adventurous pursuits leading up to Christmas.

Ex ASKARI STORM In support of 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland and 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, 68 Sqn deployed to BATUK as part of a new CSS construct – the ability to exercise two Battlegroups over the same period. This exercise tested every aspect of the Sqn’s abilities to overcome the logistical challenges this ambitious framework required.

The CSS Gp had to conduct supply runs to the local training areas to ensure that the two Battlegroups had all the required resources they needed to have a highly successful exercise. 68 Sqn also worked closely with the RAF in support of calling in Medical Emergency Response Teams to train for real-life casualties, requiring perfect communication skills and developing soldiers understanding of how medical evacuation works.

While deployed, 68 Sqn made every effort to make the most of being in the unique location of Kenya, taking part in white-water rafting,

8 While deployed to BATUK 68 Sqn helped develop orphanages

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mountain biking, kayaking and rock climbing, as well as visiting and helping develop orphanages. A truly remarkable deployment, the Regt trained and performed to a very high standard.

Sports The highlight of any aspiring boxers’ career, the Regt came together on the evening of 17 Dec for the eagerly anticipated Inter-Sqn boxing competition. Twelve weeks of intensive and challenging training culminated in ten bouts of three rounds to determine which Sqn would be named the champion of 2019.

With a selection of hard-fought bouts across a number of weight categories, 68 Sqn was deemed the victors by an antagonising close margin of only one fight. All the participants fought gallantly and the Regt looks forward to participating in Inter Regt’l bouts with an extremely strong selection of skilful boxers.

The Regt has also enjoyed

8 68 Sqn deployed to BATUK as part of a new CSS construct

success from the Regt’l running team who deployed to Cyprus to take part in a variety of long-distance events, culminating in a very strong top ten team finish.

Soldiers of 9 Sqn also enjoyed some much-needed Adventurous Training to reward their hard work and commitment during the year.

Accommodated in the RLC lodge, they undertook a challenging mountain biking and rock-climbing package to test their confidence, robustness and character on a series of hard yet rewarding routes and climbs.

Look forward The Regt is set to enter its training year ahead by assuming the commitment of the Light Brigade Support Group. Continued training and development will be paramount in ensuring success in this endeavour.

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9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULLAVINGTON CO: Lt Col J Brown • Adjt: Capt A Stahlmann • RSM: WO1 R Vincent Out of the 140 teams to enter this year's Cambrian Patrol competition, only 17 were awarded the most prestigious and soughtafter gold medal. 9 Regiment RLC, along with 4 Regiment RLC, were the only two RLC units to do so.

This award symbolised the culmination of a gruelling threemonth training package in which the team covered distances of up to 200km and spent a total of ten days in the field.

During the event itself, the patrol tabbed across approximately 70km of rough terrain, with an average weight of 30kg for a duration of almost 45 hours, with no sleep throughout.

Following the Cambrian Patrol, the Patrol Commander (Lt Pukar Shah) and Regimental Training Wing continued with the green theme by running a Potential NCO Course for 27 of The RLC’s newly selected LCpls.

National Remembrance Parade This year, 9 Regt saw a contingent represent the Corps at the National Remembrance Parade held at the Cenotaph.

After being put through their paces by the Regimental Training Wing in both rifle and foot drill (not to mention the countless hours spent tailoring and bulling!), the group travelled to Wellington Barracks and completed rehearsals under the watchful eyes of the Household Division.

Thanks are in order to the many units who aided with the preparation, particularly to 10 QOGLR and 7 Regiment RLC, for their assistance with blues fittings and the Irish Guards for providing a bespoke Greatcoat fitting.

With both RLC and QOGLR soldiers from 95 Supply Squadron taking part, this was especially pertinent as it was the first year in history that the Nepalese Ambassador has attended the parade. Her Majesty The Queen and members of the Royal Family were all present along with representatives of the Armed Forces, Parliament and Senior Officials from across the Commonwealth.

Cultural visit On 21 Nov 19, 90 HQ Sqn visited the Gurkha museum in Winchester.

8 9 Regt, along with 4 Regt, were the only two RLC units to achieve the coveted gold medal from Cambrian Patrol Organised by Sgt Surye Gurung and Cpl Navin Rai, the trip was an excellent opportunity for the Squadron to learn about the culture, history and formation of the Brigade of Gurkhas in a series of presentations spanning 205 years.

The visit was particularly important with the impending formation of 94 Squadron QOGLR within 9 RLC and was enabled by a generous grant from The RLC RHQ Treasurer. Following these lectures, the Sqn had the opportunity to take a tour of the museum and enjoyed a traditional Nepalese lunch. The museum hosted impeccably throughout and with such an important change to the Regt around the corner, it was a truly significant event to be a part of.

Looking forward With the arrival of the New Year, 9 Regt will see tempo reach new levels as it embarks on two major overseas, squadron-plus deployments; Ex LION SUN in Cyprus and Ex DEFENDER 20 across NW Europe. Apr will also see the 95 Supply Squadron’s re-designation to 94 Squadron QOGLR. 8 90 HQ Sqn visited the Gurkha museum in Winchester

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10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col A F West • Adjt: Capt Z Young • RSM: WO1 P Gurung 10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (QOGLR) has had another busy quarter, moving through the gears as it prepares for the next two years at Readiness. Having secured a CT4 validation from Ex IRON VIPER 19 last year it has now been focussing on its low-level skills, drills and technical trade craft; exploiting training support tasks for training value.

Exercises 36(HQ)Sqn was pivotal in the planning, execution and support to 3(UK)Div's Ex IRON PRIMUS earlier this year. The exercise aim was for 3(UK)Div to experiment with its deployed laydown and structure across multiple Command Posts located throughout Salisbury Plain.

36(HQ)Sqn capitalised on this fantastic opportunity, empowering junior soldiers across three trades to conduct battle craft skills alongside their core jobs.

Drivers from across the Regt covered 100s of miles transporting materiel, food and 3(UK)Div staff officers between Command Posts.

36(HQ)Sqn chefs were feeding up to 300 people centrally and a further 60 with hotbox containers up to three times daily. Helping co-ordinate the multiple moving parts was the responsibility of the Communications Specialists, with the establishment of one static operations room and two mobile relay stations they were instrumental in ensuring

situational awareness at all levels.

Everyone’s dedication and professionalism made for a highly successful exercise.

28 Sqn utilised a number of Specialist Support to experimentation and training tasks to conduct driver training and petroleum operations. Ex BADGER’S STRESS, an SF selection exercise and Ex GREEN SHADOW, supporting 152 RLC in N. Ireland provided great opportunities to showcase trade knowledge and flair. These lead onto the 28 Sqn Battle Craft Syllabus exercise where through a series of serials Sect Comds and junior soldiers were put though their paces in a dismounted role, ideal preparation for Ex NOBLE PARTNER in Georgia, which 28 Sqn will deploy on later in the year.

1 Sqn celebrated its 150th Anniversary this year, firstly with Adventure Training in Nepal which

8 10 QOGLR is now poised to enter two years of Readiness

managed to coincide with some of its soldiers extended leave in the country followed by a dinner night in Woolwich. Since their return they have been focusing on individual and collective trade training designed to be tested on a large-scale security exercise in late spring. Alongside specialist training serials, they had been running the Regt’s Custodian Account which at times has been challenging but ultimately rewarding as 1 Sqn supply specialists are having a daily real-world output.

LAD, alongside its daily battle of recovery and repair, has been concentrating on low level skills in the field. This was highlighted on Ex KHUKURI CARPE DIEM where soldiers conducted special to arm training; recovery and repair alongside Battle Craft Syllabus training objectives. The enemy was resourceful but 10 QOGLR LAD proved they were soldiers first, defending with a warrior spirit. It was a highly successful exercise.

The Regt was honoured to host Col J Davies MBE for the first time in his tenure as Colonel of the Brigade of Gurkhas. It is now looking forward to two years of Readiness.

Jai QOGLR! 8 Ex IRON PRIMUS gave 3(UK)Div an opportunity to experiment with deployed laydown and structure

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11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment RLC DIDCOT CO: Lt Col N G Joynes QGM • Adjt: Capt R Kelly • RSM: WO1 A Turner

This period has been characterised by change and numerous key training activities in addition to the continuance of delivering EOD capability and Ammunition Technical support in the UK and overseas. This has insured there has been no let up to the tempo at 11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) & Search Regiment RLC. Honours and awards The Regiment would like to publicly congratulate Maj Roberts (MBE), the current Regimental Second in Command, as well as WO1 Hughes GC (MSM) and WO1 Grice (MSM) who have now moved onto pastures new, for receiving awards in the New Year’s Honours List.

Project GASKET and STARTER The concept of MACA EOD operations has remained relatively unchanged over recent decades, with improvements in how the Regt operates rather than the equipment itself. Two current projects; GASKET and STARTER have been designed to modernise and replace existing equipment and procedures.

GASKET, the introduction of 297 new vehicles, most significantly a new 4x4 medium scale capability, is perhaps one of the most significant changes to EOD operations in

recent times. This concept is designed around improving agility of the fleet, maximising options available to an EOD team whilst also reducing response times to the 2500-3000 EOD tasks dealt with by the unit each year.

To ensure the Regt maintains maximum capability under Ops TAPESTRY and HELVETIC, STARTER it will introduce a new robot, the T7 HARRIS (122 robots in the EOD community), to enhance the heavy scale capability. This robot has been through a lengthy and vigorous trial period and will offer enhanced communications, robustness and ease of use, amongst other advantages.

With the projects scheduled for FOC during 2020 at a value of £96 million (STARTER) and £17 million (GASKET), it is evident that the investment into the EOD community reflects the ongoing high operational tempo of the duty teams and importance to Defence and wider national security.

721 EOD Sqn - Omani EOD officer visit In November, Ashchurch Troop hosted several Omani EOD Officers as part of their EOD Training.

When the Regt’s extended EOD family arrived at Ashchurch they were greeted by the OC and formally welcomed to the Sqn. The

8 Ex FELIX ARES visit provided a very interesting and informative insight into how the unit’s EOD brothers operate and it was a great chance to exchange EOD experience.

721 EOD Sqn Training Nottingham Troop was involved in Ex GROUSER. This was a multiagency exercise executed in the INTU Shopping Centre in Derby.

Fortunately, this was done in silent hours and all the shops were closed meaning Capt Cahill and LCpl Marfell were able to beat the Christmas shopping rush. The exercise was a great success and it has deepened the already strong relationship the unit has with the local police constabulary.

Ex FELIX ARES In early November, 16 soldiers and officers from the Regt travelled to Athens on Ex FELIX ARES to take part in the 37th Authentic Athens Marathon. The gruelling race tested the participants both mentally and physically, demanding more from their bodies than thought possible. As the exercise fell over Armistice Day, it was only fitting that the troops attended Syntygma Square to pay their respects as their final parting from Athens.

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13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER CO: Lt Col J Beere • Adjt: Capt O Stilgoe • RSM: WO1 N Waring

13 Air Assault Support Regiment has had an excellent quarter following a busy period of exercises concentrating on CT1 and 2, as well as adventurous training and Battlefield Study packages. Sqns also took part in Op TEMPERER over the Christmas and New Year period.

Ex TOY DROP Exercise TOY DROP is a multinational exercise that sees US, Italian and British paratroopers brought together in aid of a US children’s charity. Each jumper brings a toy to be donated to a family in need over Christmas. The exercise is hosted by the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team (‘Sky Soldiers’) based in Vicenza, Italy. It is the United States European Command’s conventional airborne strategic response force for Europe.

13 AASR had the privilege to send one officer and ten soldiers on this fantastic and prestigious exercise with other paratroopers from 16 Bde. It was a great opportunity for the younger, less experienced Para trained soldiers to gain their American jump wings while contributing to something special. All jumpers were jumping 50

the American parachute out of the US C130. The Regt’s Air Adjt, Sgt Saul Jones did a brilliant job organising the exercise from the Regt’s side and a fantastic time was had by all.

Ex BLACK FOX 63 Air Assault Close Support Squadron deployed on Ex BLACK FOX with an aim to develop both JNCO’s and soldier’s leadership while developing their military skills.

The exercise focused on applying the Battle Craft Syllabus in both a rural and urban environment, thus allowing the Sqn an opportunity to train in a more demanding and unfamiliar setting better aligning the unit with the changing nature of conflict.

The OC, Maj Morgans was able to deploy with his whole Sqn. The exercise saw F&GT and GS Troops focusing on their basic driver and supplier skills, while Airborne Troop had the opportunity to practice their helicopter handling capability with three rotary wing and two fixed wing aircraft for the exercise. For some of the younger soldiers this was the first time they had worked with aircraft and absolutely loved it.

8 Ex BLACK FOX focused on applying the Battle Craft Syllabus in both a rural and urban environment

HRH visit 13 AASR had the privilege of hosting a visit from Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal. Each Sqn had a part to play and it was a wonderful opportunity to showcase some of the Regt’s niche capabilities. Towards the end of the visit and to finish on a high, HRH presented soldiers with their LS&GC in the Officers Mess. HRH seemed pleased to receive a bouquet of flowers from the Regimental Second in Command’s son, Joshua, proudly wearing his regimental tie.

Look forward This coming year is going to be a busy but exciting one for all. The Regt will see 82 Sqn deploy to Kenya on Ex ASKARI STORM in support of 3 Para BG and elements of 63 Sqn deploy on Ex SWIFT RESPONSE in support of 2 Para BG in Georgia. Also, there is some fantastic adventurous training planned such as snowboarding and skydiving.

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17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTHAMPTON CO: Lt Col P Eaton MBE • Adjt: Capt M McGarvey-Miles • RSM: WO1 M Calverley 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC has enjoyed a non-stop year; whether preparing for Ex DEFEUR 20 or planning for Brexit, the Regt continues its support for Defence Taskings as well as adventurous training and competing in high-level sports.

Deployments Throughout the year the Regt has contributed to a raft of exercises and operations, across the globe. Atlantic Patrol Task (North) is one of the biggest demands of the Regt and due to the impact of Hurricane DORIAN, a small detachment has been sent out to RFA Mounts Bay. The ship is currently undergoing an annual maintenance period in Curacao in the Dutch Antilles. The detachment contains a mixture of port operators, mariners, marine engineers and a REME vehicle mechanic. Their role onboard is to conduct equipment care and maintenance on vehicles and plant machinery which were heavily used during the 2019 Hurricane Season.

RFA Mounts Bay is due return to the UK later this year for refurbishment.

Members of MEXE Troop also accompanied the Royal Marines on Ex JOINT WARRIOR and the Royal Navy on Ex SOUTH WEST SWORD. On the home front, the Task Squadrons have been hard at work managing operations at the Sea Mounting Centre, Marchwood, in addition to deploying Port Task Groups to Mombasa, Belize and Sunny Point (California), to name but a few.

Against this eventful programme, it has the been the pleasure of the

Regt to host potential RLC Officers on LOG SAFARI, the International Logistic Officers Course (ILOC) and its French Army Maritime counterparts at 519e Regiment (La Rochelle). Maintaining interoperability between the forces is crucial to effectiveness and each educate each other in its own capabilities and procedures in order to maintain and adapt to the high operational effectiveness.

Sports and AT A team of eight soldiers of all abilities and ranks travelled to Obertilliach, Austria, this year, to take part in Ex KNEES STRETCH. Here, under the direction of LCpl Foley (GB level skiier) and his assistant LCpl Brown, the team took part in a progressive and challenging programme to develop the Nordic Ski skills necessary to compete against other regiments within the Corps.

After a gruelling period of training,

8 Members of the Regiment completing adventurous training in Chile

the team achieved outstanding results, claiming several individual awards, as well as the overall team award.

Over the same period, members of the Regt embarked on an ambitious, ten-day expedition across the Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile. On the sixth day the team stepped onto the famous O-Circuit in Torres del Paine, one of the most remote and beautiful areas of South America.

This was a truly breath-taking expedition and the team were rewarded with enviable sights of glaciers, mountains and wildlife.

The future There is much for the Regt to look forward to in 2020: Ex DEFEUR 20, the Joint Expeditionary Force Theatre Enabling Group (JEF TEG) exercise in Europe; Ex COLD RESPONSE, supporting the Royal Marines in Norway; PTGs to Kenya, Oman and Estonia and continued support to hurricane relief work, operating alongside the Royal Fleet Auxiliary in the Caribbean. 2020 is already expected to be an interesting year to say the least!

8 The Regimental Nordic Skiing team claimed the overall team award at Ex KNEES STRETCH

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25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LECONFIELD CO: Lt Col M A Scannell • Adjt: Capt F Harris • RSM: WO1 J Girvan

25 Training Regiment RLC has begun to assign to the Field Army the first wave of Combat Logistician’s whilst continuing to develop the additional military training received by the Initial Trade Trainees during their time with the Regt to ensure that they leave with an understanding of Corps ethos and all that the Army has to offer.

109 Sqn The Squadron has started to develop the Continuation Training Programme that will be delivered to trainees who are not undergoing Driving Licence Acquisition. This training aims to develop the newest members of the Corps by offering them a range of opportunities and a chance to begin experiencing what the Army has to offer.

Recently the trainees have visited Lancaster Castle where they learned about the War of The Roses. They also had a day trip to York where they got an insight into the city’s history as well as a charity event raising money for the Scotty’s Little Soldiers charity.

The Squadron also played a key role in organising and running the Regimental Drill Competition, in 52

particular Sgt Lee Aldred. A fantastic event that was enjoyed by all, the trainees worked underneath a section commander and trained for the week leading up to the competition. In doing so this developed their discipline, drill and instilled a sense of pride in the young soldiers. The drill competition led up to Remembrance Sunday, where 57 soldiers and officers of the Sqn paraded through Beverley at the head of the parade. This was a fantastic moment and the soldiers of 109 Squadron stepped up to plate demonstrating the pride and devotion they have shown to their chosen career. Leading into the new year the soldiers of the squadron are continuing to train hard, with an influx of new individuals at all levels in the Chain of Command.

110 Sqn With the increase in numbers of trainees, competition in the ‘Eagles Challenge’ (110 Sqn Officer Commanding’s Cup) continues to heat up. In the latest round, Cpl Ben Robinson organised a physically demanding event which ended with a simulation of a casualty extraction and gave the trainees an insight into what will be expected in the new

8 Maj Matt Lee and WO2 (SSM) Jonathan Johnson compare scores for the inspection element of the Regimental Drill Competition Physical Employment Standards.

Congratulations go to Cpl Shane Furesz and Cpl Joshua Robertson, who have been shortlisted for the Defence College of Logistics, Policing and Administration Trainer of the Year Award. This award recognises those from across the College who have gone above and beyond in delivering training. It is much deserved recognition for their hard work.

The GURTAM contingent within the Sqn organised this year’s Dashain which included personnel from across the School and the local community. A great time was had by all celebrating this festival.

Sporting success continues with Pte Paige Johnson putting in an extremely strong performance on her debut for The RLC Swimming and Water Polo Squad. Pte Johnson won gold in the 100m backstroke and silver in the 50m backstroke.

She helped secure gold in the ladies 4x50m Freestyle relay and silver in the 4x50m Medley relay and then demonstrated her Water Polo skills assisting the team to second place.

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27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col D J Fisher MBE • Adjt: Capt O Mcgarvey-Miles • RSM: WO1 R Coleman For this quarter, 27 Regiment has been focused on Op TOSCA as well as supporting and preparing for the numerous tasks and exercises around the globe including: Exercise DEFENDER EUROPE 20, Exercise TRACTABLE, Exercise CERBERUS and Operation CABRIT. Op TOSCA The deployed element of the Regt has fully established itself in Cyprus. They have had several momentous events take place, with the first significant task to host the two key political leaders, Mr Nicos Anastasiades and Mr Mustafa Akinci, as well as circa 300 people at the UN Day. The next major event was the Remembrance Sunday Service held at the sensitive area of Wayne’s Keep Cemetery. The following day the Regt hosted both the Northern Cyprus and Republic of Cyprus branches of the Royal British Legion (RBL); the first time that these branches of the RBL have been able to come together for remembrance since their creation, a proud moment for the Regt.

In addition to the operational tasks and the test exercises; meticulously rehearsing the drills for protests and demonstrations, the Regt has also hosted several VIPs and visitors including the UN Cyprus Force Commander, Australian Maj Gen Cheryl Pearce, the Rt Hon Christopher Pincher, Minister of State for Europe, members of the US Embassy, The RLC Corps Colonel and RLC Corps Sergeant Major.

A key highlight for the Regt and the soldiers, was the welfare visit from the Boxing Olympic Medalist Anthony Ogogo. His brief was exceptional, and everyone was moved by his personal struggles, some of the soldiers were also lucky enough to have received some boxing coaching from him.

commitments, as well as conducting preparation work for various up and coming exercises.

91 Squadron has also been working tirelessly to ensure the new Custodian Account is established and ready to received stores. In addition to the on-going and general routine training, the Regt has also been supporting the School’s Modular Programme. The six-week programme is designed to provide an awareness of military life and provides an opportunity for students to talk to the soldiers.

At home The Regt in Aldershot has continued to support its worldwide

8 19 Squadron, has had an action-packed

19 Tank Transporter Squadron With the Army’s only Heavy Tank Transporter capability, 19 Squadron,

quarter on Exercise TRACTABLE 19

8 It is not all hard work in Dhekelia with Adventure Training packages being offered to the deployed troops has had an action-packed quarter with its deployment on Exercise TRACTABLE 19. This was a fantastic opportunity to test heavy lift capability and demonstrate Divisional ability to deploy across Europe and deliver the punch to the Enhanced Forward Presence on Operation CABRIT, Estonia.

Experience gained will be put to the test on the Sqn’s imminent deployment on Exercise DEFENDER EUROPE 20. Operating as part of a wider NATO exercise, this will be the largest deployment of Heavy Equipment Transporters (HET) since Operation TELIC 1. A total of 24x HETs and 3x MLETs will attach to 21st Theatre Sustainment Command (US Army) and the Theatre Enabling Group (104 Logistic Brigade) to move American armour east from Germany/Belgium to Poland. It will be a superb opportunity for the Sqn to put its operating procedures into practice alongside American allies and function within a multi-agency conventional environment.

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29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTH CERNEY CO: Lt Col J Symons • Adjt: Capt J Broad • RSM: WO1 L E Russell It has been a productive few months at 29 Regiment RLC with the start of a new year. Of note, the Regt has said a heartfelt goodbye to Colonel C G Munce MBE RLC and wished a warm welcome to Lt Colonel J Symons RLC, the new Commanding Officer.

Over the past quarter, the unit has deployed 85 personnel across six separate operational theatres.

At the time of writing, there are 38 personnel across five NonOperational Enduring commitments, as well as 191 personnel on SSETs across 22 different countries. Additionally, the JAMC has worked around the clock, processing 71 MCCP tasks with 3639 passengers, 16,6927 Kgs baggage and 92,430 Kg of freight between 1 Oct and 31 Dec 19.

Through all of this, the unit has continued to provide fantastic opportunities for its soldier and officer cohorts. Of note was the 104 Bde battlefield study trip to Sicily, tracing the steps of logisticians through the stages of Op HUSKY. This opportunity was open to all ranks and proved to be a hit (the weather was good throughout)! In addition, Lt Pattison-Hudd was fortunate enough to represent the Army in China at the International Army Cadets Week, where she delivered seminars on leadership and the importance of cultural diversity to her peers from across the globe.

Commander’s Shield The Commander’s Shield events have also continued with maximum participation. Most recently, the unit has held the final event: the best effort two miler, where the Regt

8 99 Sqn stole the show and came away overall winners of the CO’s shield

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raced around the airfield in CEFO, trying desperately to get between 99 Sqn and the podium. With three out of four top place prizes going to 99 Sqn, it is no surprise that it stole the show and came away overall winners of the CO’s shield.

As the winter season comes to an end, so does the ski season. It has been a successful season for 29 Regt’s Snowboarding team, who placed second overall in the novice category, with Pte Holberry and LCpl Fincham winning several prizes at the Army and RLC competitions. The Regt has also seen success across several other sports with SSgt Hughes (SSI) receiving his National Shooting Colours (Wales), LCpl Morgan

8 The Regt has said goodbye to Colonel C G Munce MBE RLC and welcome to Lt Colonel J Symons RLC, the new CO being selected to represent the UKAF in women’s football and Pte Waqanidrola earning his first UKAF Rugby Union Cap. As the Regt’s push forward into 2020, Ex DEFENDER looms closer and the unit is looking forward to giving its Movement Controllers the ability to test themselves alongside many of its NATO counterparts.

Alongside this and our regular commitments abroad and on the home bank, the unit is also gearing up to host The RLC WO1 convention and preparations have started for CFA’s upcoming visit to the station.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

The Defence EOD, Munitions and Search Training Regt BICESTER CO: Lt Col M Long QGM • Adjt: Capt G Holdcroft • RSM: WO1 D Piner As a world-leading establishment for EOD, IEDD, search and munitions training, DEMS has hosted military delegations from several nations in recent months; they are keen to understand how we work in comparison to their own methods.

Visits have included personnel from Germany, Kazakhstan and Oman, to name but a few. This has built relationships between DEMS and other like units around the world and shared knowledge that is mutually strengthening. In addition, IEDD Sqn recently ran an international IEDD course which trained personnel from around the world using British techniques.

There is also interest from several nations in ammunition storage and safety courses.

The current course of ammunition technical officers has been undergoing a more integrated ATO conventional munitions disposal (CMD) course. This will give them the sought-after 0064 CMD qualification, which, combined with the 0039 IEDD course, prepares them for operational posts at 11 EOD&S or 33 Engr Regts. This has been a demanding time for ATO Troop, Munitions Training Sqn, whose instructors have delivered this phase with the assistance of CMD Sqn for training aids, real estate and expertise.

In late November, the DEMS awards dinner night saw recognition of good work by several teams and individuals from across the Regiment. Awards were presented by Brigadier Rowell MBE,

8 A trainee ATO practices setting up a Rocket Wrench on the ATO CMD phase

Commandant of the Royal School of Military Engineering (RSME). Pte Connor Davies (Log Spec), who, alongside LCpl Warren (AT), supports Conventional Munitions Disposal Sqn, received an award on behalf of the Sqn from the Comdt.

The AT, Log Spec and Civil Service instructors of All Arms Troop, Muns Sqn, also received an award for the implementation of Project GATEKEEPER 1 (GK1). This project was the development of a new Authorised Representative (Road) ammunition transport course for all-arms personnel from across the Army. The shortened course now incorporates a preparatory Defence Learning Environment package.

Looking forward, the new IEDD remote controlled vehicle (RCV), Project STARTER, is being rolled out on training courses run by IEDD Sqn at the FELIX Centre. It will provide significant additional capability on operational IEDD tasks; trainees now get hands-on with this equipment. Project GATEKEEPER 2 is also moving forward for Muns Sqn. GK2 will see the existing theorybased all-arms and Log Spec ammunition storage courses being rationalised into more practical training. The Base Ammunition Duties course will cover in-unit

8 All Arms Troop instructors received an award for their delivery of Proj GATEKEEPER 1 from Brigadier Rowell (l-r; Comdt RSME, WO2 Rob Burnett, Jade Wilkinson (CS), SSgt ‘Poms’ Pomfret) storage and the Operational Ammunition Duties course will train for ammunition storage on operational deployments and field storage. The next three months will see a busy visit programme from VIPs, including the Director Land Warfare and Commander 11 Signal Brigade; EOD delegations from Sweden and Nigeria; and even a visit from the Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers (an affiliated London livery company). There are also several defence engagement tasks planned including a short term IEDD/EOD training team task to Kuwait. An Alpine skiing package to Austria is also on the agenda.

In March, the unit will bid farewell to the current CO, Lt Col Richard Hallett OBE, and welcome Lt Col Matthew Long QGM into the chair.

‘‘

GK2 will see the existing theory-based all-arms and Log Spec ammunition storage courses being rationalised into more practical training

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THE SUSTAINER | RESERVE UNITS

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150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL CO: Lt Col M Casey • Adjt: Capt K Gresham • RSM: WO1 P Berry Following the trade and training theme for this spring edition, 150 Regiment RLC is using its unit report to introduce LCpl Philip Easom; to share his story of his time in the reserves to date and to highlight the opportunities serving in the Regt present.

LCpl Easom’s military life began in Apr 16, when he joined 216 (Tyne Tees) Transport Squadron, 150 Regt RLC. In the early stages of joining the Army Reserve, LCpl Easom showed a clear aptitude for communications and soon found himself joining Comms Tp. This should be no surprise when you learn that LCpl Easom is in the process of completing his doctorate in Computer Science at Northumbria University. Problem solving at a technical level is clearly LCpl Easom's bread and butter with life as a Comms Spec nicely compliment his civilian vocation.

The comms specialisation has also permitted LCpl Easom to complete his C+E licence. While not routinely associated with the comms trade, it does offers him and the Regt greater flexibility in his employment, with the capacity to re-role as a driver when required.

This also offers an element of cohesion between the trades and overall esprit de corp.

In light of soldier first principles, LCpl Easom deployed for two weeks to Cyprus on Ex LION STAR 18, a dismounted infantry training exercise. The exercise was extremely well received by the troops and offered them the opportunity to carry out basic infantry skills, in an arid climate that many had not experienced before.

The exercise also granted exercising troops the opportunity to complete a live firing range package under the supervision of Maj Hutcheon, the XO. The time allocated to ranges allowed for a steady progression of shoot complexity which included defensive sanger, CQB and advance to contact up to section level.

As a regularly attending Army Reservist, throughout his four years 56

with 150 Regt, LCpl Easom has progressed in rank and role at an impressive rate. He completed his PNCO CLM course in Oct 19, three years after completing his Phase 1 Bravo. The PNCO course cemented a great deal of the leadership skills and experience he had accrued to date, refining his skills as a junior leader able to confidently take on the role of Detachment Commander.

As the Regt looks forward to its

8 LCpl Easom will deploy on Ex HALBERD DAWN 20

2020 commitments, LCpl Eason is now well placed to take on the new challenges of Ex HALBERD DAWN 20 as a Detachment Commander.

To ensure success, LCpl Eason and his fellow Comms Troop members have begun a progressive STA package, which will see exercising troops experience progressively more challenging soldiering and trade focused weekend training opportunities. For LCpl Eason this will include the technical challenge of delivering comms platforms such as TACIS C4I (Command Control Computers and Information). The successful battle for comms means commanders on Ex HALBERD DAWN 20 will have the data functionality needed to make informed decisions across the battlefield. In addition to the Comms element, the regiment looks forward to bringing all its force elements together for Ex HALBERD DAWN 20 as it seeks to demonstrate its full driver capability within the Brigade battlespace.

8 A doctorate in computer science helps master military technology

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CROYDON CO: Lt Col D Taylor • Adjt: Capt T Joyce • RSM: WO1 C Sutherland Sat 9 Nov 19 saw 151 Regiment RLC head to the streets of London for the Lord Mayors Show.

After a cold five o’clock start from 562 sqn (Southall), the convoy armed with an MLET, 6 Tonne SV and a Bedford QL made its way into the centre of London ready for the parade.

The team paraded round the three-mile circuit along with 149 other floats to celebrate the appointment of the new Lord Mayor William Russell. With thousands of people watching on the streets, the soldiers interacted with the public along the route with a noticeable performance from Pte Barber (562 Sqn), who at one point had the streets chanting “151 Regiment.”

Behind the scenes, 40 other soldiers gave a control element to the parade, controlling the crowds and floats throughout the day. Overall, it was a fantastic day enjoyed by both 151 and the public.

8 Members of 151 Regt enjoying white water rafting in Lee Valley

Ex LION STAR The total professionalism displayed

by Pte Arnold of 210 Sqn RLC has been acknowledged with his award of the Commander’s coin in recognition of his hard work on Ex LION STAR. The award was presented to Pte Arnold for the hard work and commitment to his mental health awareness training by Brigadier Prosser Commander 101 Logistics Brigade.

Congratulations to Pte Arnold on this great achievement.

Adventurous training In late October, members of the Regt spent the weekend on the water in Lee Valley honing their skills at white water rafting. Almost immediately, the troops were tested and were instructed to jump into the rapids and remain calm whilst listening to their instructors as they were hurled down the water. The troops were taken out of their comfort zone and made to work as part of a team.

After a mentally and physically demanding day, the troops enjoyed their time learning to ride the waves and strengthened their team cohesion and physical robustness.

8 Cpl Oppong preparing Christmas dinner for 562 Sqn

8 151 parading at The Lord Mayor’s Show

Professional fare at Christmas The chefs at 562 Squadron prepared for a Christmas feast with a difference in 2019. After a busy day conducting weapons training and developing leadership, RLC chefs Corporal Oppong and Private Hari Gurung treated the squadron to a Michelin style dinner.

8 Brigadier Prosser awarding Pte Arnold the Commander’s Coin

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THE SUSTAINER | RESERVE UNITS

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152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST CO: Lt Col C Sykes • Adjt: Capt R Mitchell • RSM: WO1 Llewellyn-Jones

Lt Col Andrew Chambers handed over command of 152 Regiment RLC to Lt Col Colin Sykes in Oct 19. His focus during his command tenure had been ensuring 152 RLC was trade trained to deliver fuel, retaining core skills with shooting and BCS and challenging at the highest levels in football. He leaves the Regt in great order.

Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL 19 The Regt entered the premier patrolling event of the British Army, Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL 19, for the first time in its history. The competition is mission focused and scenario-based and for the unit it was a ready-made exercise that it could use to test the basic training standards of its soldiers in preparation for future operations.

The team undertook six months of arduous training, refreshing key skills such as Dismounted Close Combat Skills, river crossing, quick battle orders/attack, Captured Persons (CPERS) Handling, Artillery Target Indication and recognition of aircraft and vehicles and equipment, all of which has helped to build resilience. The team was successful in achieving a bronze medal, a huge achievement.

Sgt Hill, the patrol commander reflected that it was the: “..best year of his Reserve career. The 58

completion of the patrol and the training for it was hugely physically and mentally challenging. Achieving the bronze medal was a very proud day for myself, the team and the Regiment.” The Regt implemented a tough training regime, where team members reached down as far as they could to deliver.

Ex VIKING STAR 19 The Regt deployed on its second OTX in as many years to Denmark in October on Ex VIKING STAR 19.

The planning and movement of the unit to theatre was demanding, with the focus being a challenging

8 The 4 Peaks Challenge has helped develop and test the Regt’s soldiers in planning and delivering a demanding adventure training package

8 The Regt entered the premier patrolling event of the British Army, Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL 19, for the first time in its history four-day deployment into the field where back to basics infantry skills were tested, combined with building on the ability to resupply fuel through its fleet of CST/USTs, delivered through a range of testing exercise scenarios.

On top of this, there was a threeday package delivering an insight to Operating in Built Up Areas, combined with a testing range package consisting of day and night LFTT. 104 Bde Comd certainly enjoyed his visit with a shoot on the GMPG. 4 Peaks Challenge The Regt continued to develop and test its soldiers in planning and delivering a demanding adventure training package by way of the completion of a 4 Peaks Challenge.

Travelling from Northern Ireland by ferry to the UK Mainland, the team climbed Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, Snowdon and on return to Northern Ireland, Donard in the Mournes over a three-day period at times in very challenging weather conditions. This challenge both stretched the unit in physical and mentally demanding conditions and also helped build retention for its soldiers.

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DUNFERMLINE CO: Lt Col J Yates • Adjt: Capt F Hunter • RSM: WO1 K Poole In Oct 19, 154 (Scottish) Regiment was honoured to receive a visit from HRH The Princess Royal to Dunfermline station. A wide variety of personnel from across all squadrons were in attendance and given the opportunity to meet HRH. They either briefed her on regimental capabilities, training, recruiting activities, sport and AT opportunities, or introduced her to members of their family.

Several soldiers attended the event in their civilian work attire to demonstrate the breadth of experience and skills reservists have. After HRH’s departure, the Corps Col took the opportunity to recognise the commitment and professionalism of the Regt’s individuals in an LSGC and VRSM ceremony. The whole day was a success and a highlight of the 2019 calendar.

Local engagement is an essential part of the Regt’s activities and in November it hosted a Royal Gun Salute at Stirling Castle to celebrate the birthday of HRH The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay. The Regt invited 20 influential local leaders and employers as an opportunity to either introduce itself or cement established relationships.

Mid-November is risky for an

outdoor event but the weather was perfect and all who attended enjoyed the parade and left with a broader understanding of the Regt and wider army.

Training During the final quarter of 2019, the Regt focussed on trade skills.

Several training weekends were designed to ensure soldiers were given the opportunity to complete their upgrade from B3 to B2, as well as conducting revision on low level tactics such as vehicle harbours and DPs. In October, the Regt planned and delivered Exercise MUDMASTER 19 – a 48-hour safe skilled driving

8 HRH meeting family members event across the central belt of Scotland. This year’s competitors included 46 4x4s, over half of which were military teams in Land Rovers, and 12 6T SV teams.

Drivers and commanders negotiated various off-road challenges testing their technical driving skills, whilst navigating between stands on the local MSR network. The winning military crew on the exercise were Lt Pugh and SSgt Morris from 154 Regt RLC – a great achievement against a mixed services field! The exercise is a great opportunity for members of the Regt and all participants, to experience challenging driving conditions whilst also focussing on vehicle preparation and maintenance.

It is open to any military unit and occurs annually in October.

Achievements The Regt is very proud of Capt Colin Macnab who was awarded an MBE in the 2020 New Years Honours List for his dedicated service and commitment to the Regt and Riders Branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland. Congratulations also go to 2Lt Gregory, Todd and Whyte, who all commissioned from RMAS in November into the Regt.

8 Col RLC presenting SSgt Porteous his VRSM

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THE SUSTAINER | RESERVE UNITS

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156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL CO: Lt Col K Haigh • Adjt: Capt J Blake • RSM: WO1 R Armour The North West’s logisticians of 156 Regiment RLC have been able to reflect on a demanding but rewarding 2019 with activity ranging from troops deployed operationally on Op TOSCA, to various overseas adventurous training expeditions.

Remembrance 156 Regt had a footprint at five parades across the North West with the most significant including Lancaster, Bootle, Salford, Birkenhead and Liverpool.

As the garrison lead for Merseyside, WO1 (RSM) Armour was on point for the Liverpool City Centre parade, leading a Tri-Service contingent in front of 16000 spectators and veterans. With fitting readings, including the North West poet, Jane Weir, dignitaries such as the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Cllr Anna Rothery, senior military commanders, veterans and the civilian population, the scene was set for memorable Remembrance Sunday.

2019 Chalker Cup Highly coveted by all squadrons, with year-long bragging rights for the winning team, the Chalker Cup has now become synonymous with the Christmas weekend allowing all competitors to demonstrate their military skills. Alongside the traditional events like the obstacle course and pair fire-andmanoeuvre assessment, new activities introduced required more lateral thinking. The Ready, Steady, Cook stand was one example, with teams under pressure to prepare a culinary feast in only 20 minutes. At the conclusions of the competition 381 (Lancaster) Sqn were victorious with 238 (Sefton) Sqn claiming the March & Shoot Rob Peck Shield.

During the weekend, the Regt celebrated the festive period with the soldiers' lunch; in attendance was its Honorary Colonel, Mrs Lesley Martin-Wright JP DL. The event was kicked off with a memorable carol service led by 60

Padre Michael Rutter, 1 Regt RLC who kindly volunteered to deliver the service. True to form, team 156 did not disappoint with their 'enthusiastic' vocals.

Op TOSCA As most have enjoyed the festive period at home with their loved ones, the Regt wanted to reach out to those members that are currently deployed on Op TOSCA. In the form of bespoke care packages, often centred around their local football team of choice (blues or reds), the deployed team were grateful for the thought and appreciated the bespoke 'nuances' contained. On top of the routine peacekeeping activity the troops have been tasked with, they have also found time to continue their professional development through

8 The Regt has troops deployed on Op TOSCA

8 The Chalker Cup has become synonymous with the Christmas weekend

both 'green' courses, such as becoming team medics, whilst also gaining foundation adventure training qualifications to bring back to the Regt.

Looking forward 2020 has all the hallmarks of being an unforgettable year with the variety of training opportunities reaching new heights.

The training programme is designed to encapsulate the Battle Craft Syllabus within every event; there are Physical Development training / educational opportunities, various driving and trade related technical training and of course, the foundation activities that enable MATTs and the achievement of the Certificate of Efficiency. This will be supplemented by a ski expedition, sailing in the Balearics and mountain biking in Norway.

The Regt, under the control of WO1 (RSM) Armour, is hosting the Corps Pace Sticking competition at Worthy Down, the second of its kind within the Corps.

The main event of the year will be Ex SAVA STAR in Croatia. This unique opportunity will allow the troops to enhance their soldier first and leadership skills in an austere and demanding environment, whilst operating alongside the host nation.

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CARDIFF CO: Lt Col B D N Beaumont • Adjt: Capt A J Gutzu • RSM: WO1 C Hunter 224 Sqn hosted the Brigade Commander and other esteemed members of the military community in Llanelli, home to the Rugby Union Scarlets team, for the Armed Forces Covenant signing on 09 Nov 19. Building a bond with the sports club will undoubtedly open doors for the military community in the region, something the unit hopes to maximise and continue to grow.

Logistics training The sub-units have been training hard throughout the year and consolidated this all over the country during the Special to Arms Training weekend 25 to 26 Oct 19 and respective Sqn FTX’s 22 to 24 Nov 19.

Comprising of convoy drills to Swynnerton training area for 398 Sqn and 224 and 580 Sqn conducting Distribution Points (DPs) between SENTA, Pembrey and the Caerwent training areas, there was a lot going on! 249 Sqn’s Comms Specs spent a weekend at Larkhill courtesy of the Royal School of Artillery practicing their skills on the Land Rover Based Training Aid (LBTA). Here they conducted a full ‘plug-in’ of the communications system before enhancing their voice and R2 procedures.

The chain of command really put their Sqns through their paces with CBRN attacks, urban ops challenges and humanitarian assistance, to name but a few.

Delivering excellent training value, 157 RLC really finished 2019 year on a high. Professionally competent personnel, ready to deploy.

Ex DRAGONS COMPASS A Reserve Potential Officer (ResPO) training weekend led by the Regt was conducted from 25 to 27 Oct 19. The weekend saw 14 ResPOs from eight different capbadges and units, geographically spread across the UK, attend the Army Officer Selection Board style training at Maindy Barracks, Cardiff.

The training allowed candidates

8 The sub-units have been training hard throughout the year

was also the culmination of the hard fought Commanding Officer’s Sword Competition.

Congratulations to 224 Sqn for taking the title for 2019.

8 Ex DRAGONS COMPASS was a ResPO training weekend led by the Regt

to display physical leadership and courage – the Regt wishes them the best of luck to all those embarking on the pathway to commission.

Ex KNEES STRETCH Twelve personnel from across the Regt deployed to Austria on Ex KNEES STRETCH to compete in the arduous Nordic ski races. Pte Regan-Bryant as a novice competitor did an outstanding job and championed when given the opportunity.

Ex RUDOLF DRAGON The Regt deployed to Castle Martin on what appeared to be the edge of the earth, or perhaps the south west tip of Wales! A chance to celebrate a fantastic year of training and the festivities of Christmas, it

Bde Comd visit Brigadier Prosser, Brigade Commander 101 Logistic Brigade, came to visit the unit on 15 Jan 20.

During his stay, the Commander took the opportunity to congratulate some of the Regt’s people with the following accolades: CGS’s Commendation, two were awarded their Volunteer Reserve Service Medal and three competitors of the arduous Cambrian Patrol competition were given silver medals. A special mention to Sgt Walsh who was awarded the Brigade Commander’s Coin for embodying his philosophy of Professionalism, Adding Value and Enjoyment – well done to all!

8 Ex RUDOLF DRAGON - the hard fought Commanding Officer’s Sword Competition

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158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH CO: Lt Col A Gifford TD • Adjt: Capt P Goodfellow • RSM: WO1 P Anderson Looking back on 2019, 158 Regiment can reflect on a busy and successful year achieving in many areas, from deploying on the massed ACT and conducting demanding training for its NRDC commitment, to its many sporting wins with teams and individuals winning at Corps and Army level.

CO’s competition The December Regimental Training weekend was the CO’s competition event. The event tested the Regt on all aspects of the MATTs syllabus.

Starting early on the Saturday morning the squadron teams formed up for a brief from 200 (HQ) Sqn SSM, WO2 Linley. Teams navigated their way around an arduous route through Thetford Training Area stopping at numerous stands where they were tested on CBRN, first aid, and fieldcraft. It was a close fought competition with 160 Squadron coming out on top. Following the competition, the Regt had its soldiers Christmas dinner provided by the skilful chefs the at STANTA. Leadership weekend Ex STEELBACK 9 was a JNCO Leadership and Development

8 During the Dec training weekend, the Regt hosted a sports fair

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weekend and conducted at West Tofts Camp on 10 – 12 Jan 20. The RSM delivered training which would improve the leadership qualities of the Regt's JNCOs. A team from the Army Staff Leadership School (ASLS), led by WO1 (RSM) Cox and SSgt Butcher were invited to come and teach some of the latest goal setting techniques for the JNCOs to highlight areas for individual improvement, in turn making them better JNCOs. On the Saturday afternoon, WO2 (SSM) Wing and SSgt Graham delivered an orders training package which gave the JNCOs the skills to deliver a set of orders to their sections. In the evening, the Commanding Officer and RSM conducted a fireside chat, focusing on retention and empowerment within the Army Reserve. The JNCOs gave the CO and RSM some great points that have been taken away to see if they can be implemented.

The Sunday focused on orders extraction and delivery. The JNCOs were given a set of orders and tasked to produce a set for their section. Overall this was an excellent weekend, providing 158 Regt JNCOs the tools and knowledge to assist them with future challenges and promotional courses.

8 The CO’s competition took an arduous route through Thetford Training Area

Sport During the December training weekend, the Regt hosted a sports fair. Members of the Regt organised stands promoting their chosen sports. These included stands for canoeing, mountain biking and road cycling, skiing, swimming, climbing and caving.

There were numerous things to try including a mountain bike obstacle course and climbing wall, kindly provided by Cambs ACF and an artificial cave from the British Caving Association.

Look forward Looking forward, 2020 will be an exciting year for the Regt as it continues to develop its warfighting capability plus new opportunities to deploy on oversea exercises and operations and make the most of the sport and AT the Army provides.

The Regt has already had a busy start to 2020 with the training cycle swinging back to focusing on basic skills including a MATTs camp and several BCS weekends. The Regimental shooting team has started its training for the next season, the skiing teams are getting ready to go and there is a climbing expedition going to Spain.

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COVENTRY CO: Lt Col S Dines • Adjt: Capt D Gibson • RSM: WO1 N Cabo The past few months has seen 159 Regiment partake in numerous exercises ranging from deployments to Cyprus, adventurous training in Gibraltar and trade exercises in the UK. The Regt bid a fond farewell to Capt Joe Cox, one of its long serving permanent staff admin officers and welcomed Capt Neil Wood back.

Ex LION STAR As the fourth annual continuous training exercise this year, Ex LION STAR in Cyprus provided an excellent opportunity for the Regt to hone its warfighting skills in a challenging environment.

As the exercise involved, troops from ten regiments and four cap badges, it also allowed integration with other units within the Brigade.

Focus throughout was to improve basic soldiering skills and this included a challenging field exercise to test the soldiers navigational and leadership skills.

The training package also included communications training, mental resilience training and a range package, which for some was their first opportunity to fire the pistol and GPMG. Soldiers also conducted attachments to the Resident Infantry Battalion, with suppliers embedded in the Quartermasters Department to complete their Class 3 to 2 upgrade workbooks and PTIs working in the

Garrison gym. A special mention to LCpl Newey who was asked by Commander BFC to lead a number of bespoke lessons.

AT In September, ten members of the Regt deployed to Gibraltar for the annual sub-aqua diving expedition.

As well as developing their diving skills over 142 dives, they assisted the Gibraltar government by surveying several rare species of sea-life and helped with local conservation.

The Regt’s soldiers have also been pushed out of their comfort zones through mountain biking, rock climbing and the annual skiing expedition to Flaine in France.

Congratulations to everyone who

8 DCFA's Visit to 159 Regt RLC passed either their SF1 or SF2 qualification and Pte Ndalama for being the most improved student.

Preparations for next year's expeditions have already begun, which will include a sub-aqua expedition to the Florida Keys.

Other activities Other training has focused on building trade capability, with a mobility exercise in October designed to improve driving skills, mounted navigation and the delivery of orders. In February, the Regt deployed to the Supply Training Facility in Hullavington to enhance its technical skills and develop competencies such as the planning and execution of a Field Storage Area in preparation for Ex HALBERD DAWN 20. During the exercise, the Regt hosted the Deputy Commander Field Army, who spent time interacting with the troops.

Looking forward Building the Regt’s deployable capability remains the priority for the forthcoming year but there will be numerous other opportunities in the programme such as a Battlefield Study to Berlin.

8 Skiing in Flaine

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162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM CO: Lt Col T Hope MBE • Adjt: Capt B Spilsbury • RSM: WO1 J Thompson The latter part of 2019 and early part of 2020 has been a busy period for 162 Regiment RLC. The regimental ski team deployed on Ex KNEES BEND to prepare for the RLC Ski Championships in February. Maj Jerry Cross (OC 281 Sqn) deployed in his usual role as the official time keeper for the Divisional and Army ski championships. On the operational front, the Regt continues to deploy soldiers in support of 29 Regiment RLC, with a regimental footprint on Op KIPION, Op SHADER and Op TORAL. Continued Postal Courier trade support is also being provided in Belize, Brunei, Cyprus and the Falkland Islands.

Elsewhere, as the lead for the trekking team, Capt Judith Gallagher (2IC 281 Sqn), has continued to organise and facilitate training weekends in preparation for the 2020 British Service Mountaineering Expedition to Pakistan later in the year.

A Life in the Army Reserve 162 Regt and the Army Reserve as a whole have a host of opportunities on offer. From adventure training and sport through to trade training and continuous professional development, the Army Reserve has well founded policy and practice in place to assist all ranks. While 162 Regiment is predominantly centred around the Movement Control and Postal Courier and Operator trades, the Regt also has AGC (SPS) clerks, medics and chefs. To highlight the opportunities on offer, LCpl Younger (883 PC Sqn) has written about his time in the Army Reserve so far.

LCpl Younger’s Story I joined the Army Reserve in 2016 without many qualifications.

Through hard work and dedication, I passed my functional skills in Maths and English with the Military Preparation Course and after completing basic training I elected to become a Chef.

With no previous experience as a 64

Chef, I then attended a further two-week training course at Grantham and on completion of the course qualified as an Army Reserve Class 3 Chef with a civilian qualification of Level 2 in Food Hygiene.

Since joining 162 Regiment, I have fed soldiers all around the world, from meals in the field to silver service dining for functions, where I work as part of a small team or as an individual. Meals are often prepared with limited ingredients, equipment and time, yet the skills I have learned in the Army enable me to produce food of

8 LCpl Younger getting into the swing of things at the ‘Themed Sgts’ Mess Function

8 162 Regt continues to support 29 Regt on Ops KIPON, SHADER and TORAL

a high standard. The compliments I have received are far and wide and after providing dinner for the Commanding Officer and field officers of 162 Regiment, I was commended on providing some of the finest food these officer’s had eaten. Not all work and no play, on another occasion during a Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess summer function I not only cooked some Mexican food, but threw myself into the spirit of the occasion by dressing up as a ‘local’.

Since joining the Reserves, I have gained my driving licences, passed a promotion course, successfully been promoted to Lance Corporal and managed to gain full time employment as a Catering Manager within a care home for the elderly, thanks in part to the experience gained in the Army Reserve.

When asked if I would recommend the Army Reserves, I would say that it is the best decision I ever made. Not only do I gain all these relevant qualifications, get to go all over the world with some fantastic people, I also get paid for doing so. It has completely changed my life.

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165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC PLYMOUTH CO: Lt Col C Hampton-Stone • Adjt: Capt P Cussins • RSM: WO1 M Dowland With the onset of the festive period and 2019 drawing to a close, the busy schedule at 165 Port & Maritime Regt (P&M) showed no signs of slowing down. A healthy number of new soldiers continue to be welcomed into the Regt and a fond farewell was said to WO2 Peter Cain, after an astonishing 40-years’ service, and WO1 Stephen Cooper, who also leaves as head of trade. Additionally, the Regt welcomed home LCpl Dan Bishop who has been deployed in South Sudan with 32 Royal Engineers working as chef to feed the UN team based at Bentiu.

Training Training continues apace and the atrocious weather did little to dampen the soldiers’ morale during a tough BCS weekend held on Bodmin Moor in wintery November conditions. The importance of using the layering system was taught and then thoroughly tested during the exercise with all those involved benefitting from the experience of WO2 Frank Gerrard.

WO2 Bri Wills also shared his extensive MT knowledge with soldiers as he conducted a driver training course in testing conditions at the Braunton Burrows training area. Students learnt vital driver skills to enable them to drive the GS Land Rover over difficult terrain and to become proficient with essential maintenance.

Not all activity was green skills however, with both the Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess holding study weekends in order to test and fine tune their cerebral skills. Officers got their thinking caps on with workshops centred around social media and career management. The Sergeants’ Mess got stuck into debating with hot topics including NATO, mental health awareness and alcohol consumption in the services.

Community engagement A vital part of the Regt’s work is community engagement as, unlike

regular regiments, soldiers and officers are recruited by the unit from the local area, thus, a strong local connection with the community is vital to ensure a steady inflow of new recruits.

Recently the Regt has helped to forge strong bonds with the local Army Cadet Force and Scout group delivering a leadership event and a mechanics badge to these groups respectively. 265 Squadron also organised a successful beach clean day and has hosted another well attended open evening.

Remembrance Day plays a large part in community engagement and the unit was represented across the South West of the country with perhaps the highlight being 266 Squadron’s appearance on the pitch at Southampton Football Club.

With regards to recruitment,

8 The atrocious weather did little to dampen the soldiers’ morale during a tough BCS weekend held on Bodmin Moor

8 To mark Remembrance Day, the unit was represented by 266 Squadron’s appearance on the pitch at Southampton Football Club during this calendar year 165 P&M Regt has now undertaken 287 different recruiting events.

Awards and honours In the last quarter, the hard work of 165 P&M Regt’s soldiers and officers has also not gone unnoticed or unrewarded. Ten of the Regt’s soldiers received The Lord Lieutenant’s Commendations for Meritorious Service.

Congratulations to: Sgt Renwick and LCpl Hackford from 142 Vehicle Squadron; WO2 Mayor and SSgt Light from 232 Port Squadron; WO2 Holland and WO2 Cragg from 264 HQ Squadron; Sgt Dobson and Capt Clarke from 266 Port Squadron and LCpls Bowser and Mitchem from 710 Operational Hygiene Squadron.

Look forward Looking forward to 2020, the Regt will be deploying to Cyprus to conduct its Annual Deployment exercise. This will be comprised of a mix of BCS, ranges, a final training exercise and a good dose of AT to finish off with.

Additionally, the Regt is looking forward to Ex CARIBBEAN EXPRESS which will see soldiers sailing from St Lucia to Antigua aboard a 72-foot yacht.

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167 Catering Support Regiment RLC GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col J Young • Adjt: Capt J Gajdus • RSM: WO1 A Ward

167 Catering Support Regiment had a very successful OTX in Cyprus on Ex LION STAR 5 in Sept and since then has changed its main effort to recruitment, retention and development.

The Regt’s recruitment approach has been reinforced and its training plan is constantly scrutinised and refined. A recent training weekend was Ex WELLNESS CAULDRON, which focussed on incorporating a healthier mentality into soldiers’ lives on both the personal and professional fronts.

Aspirations 167 Regt has soldiers from a hugely diverse backgrounds, with different experiences, skills and aspirations, but they all have one thing in common and that is the drive to improve as chefs, people and soldiers.

One of these soldiers is Pte Andrew Rawlinson, who completed his Alpha and Bravo course in Feb and Mar of 2017. As a 48-year-old he is one of the older junior ranks, but his fitness and enthusiasm make up for his grey hairs! A civil servant, he has worked in the clothing store in Grantham for seventeen years. Issuing hundreds of sets of combats to new recruits and finally issuing a set to himself, he decided it was time to find the confidence and self-belief to come out of his comfort zone.

Since joining the Regt, he was awarded the 2018 Junior Soldier of the year, has been on exercise in the 66

US, Norway and Cyprus and passed both Class 3 and Class 2 Chef courses. He has aspirations for 2020 including a PNCO course, the shooting team and higher culinary skills development weekends.

He says: “I have had some wonderful experiences on Exercises EAGLE OWL and TRIDENT JUNCTURE, working in a kitchen for two weeks and really enjoyed living and working in a team of chefs. In Norway, I was working alongside regulars for the first time and they were very supportive and encouraging.

“The banter in the kitchens is second to none, and even the hardest shifts are good humoured and entertaining. It’s remarkable what is produced under pressure, and the team always works together to get the job done.”

“I have made so many new friends since joining, and even now when I put on my combats it is with

8 167 RLC attending the local park run on Ex WELLNESS CAULDRON

a feeling of great pride that I am part of the Army Reserve.”

Other news The Regt had success in the Corps X-country championships, winning the minor unit trophy.

Captain Kev Swinbourne, 2IC 112 Sqn, attended the Army orienteering championships, winning the Men’s Masters and was part of The RLC team that won the long course team event.

On Ex KNEES STRETCH, Sgt Wightman won the Super Vet 10km classic, SSgt Fowler won the Vet 5km classic, WO2 Richards came second Vet in the 10km skate, third female overall and won the 10km classic, with 167 RLC winning most progressed team overall.

Look forward In the coming months, the Regt is building on a resurgent schedule of higher culinary skills courses that teach using specific ingredients in more refined professional and complex recipes and techniques, such as chocolate, game, cake decorating, spices and fish.

The constant support to exercises and operations continue with Chefs deploying on Exercises LION SUN, EAGLE OWL and DEFENDER 20 and Operations CABRIT and TOSCA. 8 167 RLC Cross Country team and medals

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2 Operational Support Group RLC (2OSG) GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col A Hoey • RSM: WO1 A Clayton Life in 2 OSG RLC has continued to be as busy as ever with the unit continuing to provide manpower support to military operations and exercises.

The Group has WO1 (SSM) Mark Hobson and WO2 (SQMS) Deborah Penny deployed on Op REDFOLD, however the main thrust for the unit was in support of Ex ARRCADE FUSION 19 (Ex AF19).

Ex ARRCADE FUSION 19 (Ex AF19) In November, the Group deployed a team providing specialist logistic analysis, assessment and intelligence teams in support of Ex AF19.

Preparation for Ex AF19 began early in Jan 19 where a small team was deployed to recce the exercise location. Once the location was selected, a detailed statement of requirement was produced to ensure all aspects of Real-Life Support (RLS) for the build, execute and deconstruct/redeployment phase of the exercise were addressed.

The main phase was a two-week period and consisted of approx.

1,200 personnel from 22 different nations, which included an experienced Logistic Analysis team from 2 OSG RLC. 2 OSG RLC’s primary task was to ensure value for defence within the contract and also act as the intermediary between the customer (Army) and the contractor (NAAFI).

The first 2 OSG contract monitoring team (CMT) arrived at RAF St

8 2 OSG's primary task on Ex AF19 was to act as intermediary between the Army and the contractor

Mawgan on 22 Sept 19 with the final CMT in place until 13 Dec 19.

Over the full exercise period, 2 OSG deployed five CMTs to oversee the RLS contracts.

500 Communication Troop The Troop is in a steady state training cycle, which will see several members attend their Class 2 and Class 1 upgrading courses at the CSS Communications Division at Leconfield. Congratulations to WO2 Chris Haith on completing his PG Cert (Level 7) in Wireless Communications which was held at DST, Leconfield.

RRMT This has been a busy period for the team attending over 50 recruiting events up and down the country.

For the last four months, the RRMT has visited the CTP workshops at Kendrew Barracks speaking to over 500 service leavers from the three services on the benefits of joining the Army Reserves.

Promotion and Awards Congratulations to Lt Col Mike Hughes (SO 499 CMU) who leaves the group on promotion to Colonel to take up his new position as the Deputy Commander 104 Log Bde. In addition, congratulations to WO2 Justin Bancroft (RSWO) on gaining his GOC award presented by Maj

8 It has been a busy period for 2 OSG

Gen Thomas Richardson CopingerSymes CBE for service to FTC. Farewells and welcomes A fond farewell to Maj Askey (Executive Officer) who leaves the Group to take up his new position as the QM 4 Regiment RLC. Best wishes to him and his family as he embarks on a new challenge (see you did get a mention in The Sustainer after all).

The Group also said goodbye to Maj Lorrayn Evanson-Goddard and WO1 John Haywood who leave to take up posts with the London District. Also, a sad but fond farewell to WO2 John Brookes (498 LSU), WO2 Craig Barrow (498 LSU) and SSgt Jasmin Hood (499 CMU), who have left on retirement to spend time with family and finally enjoy their weekends. The biggest and saddest farewell of all goes to the Group’s civilian pay clerk Mrs Dawn Harrison who leaves the Group after ten years on promotion as a D Grade Civil Servant to take up her new role at RAF Digby.

Last but by no means least, a big welcome to SSgt (Buck) Rogers who has joined the team as one of the Regular PSI and Ptes Adam Donoghue and Pte Steven Magill who will be joining 500 Comms Tp.

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Commando Logistic Support Squadron (LSS) BARNSTAPLE OC: Maj C Allford • SSM: WO1 C Brett Considering the unrelenting tempo of training and deployments, 2019 was a remarkable year for the Logistic Support Squadron. It is currently leading the supply and sustainment of 3 Cdo Bde troops in the Arctic, developing new fuel handing solutions for the future Commando Force environment and leading the development of Logistic UAVs within the Royal Navy.

CGRM Award During the CGRM’s visit to Commando Logistics Regiment (CLR) at the end of Oct 19, LS Sqn, which is 97 percent Army personnel, received its CGRM’s Commendation and another award, during a visit from the 3 Commando Brigade Commander, Brigadier Matt Jackson DSO. The CGRM’s Commendation was for the Sqn’s high standards over the last two years, maintaining a high degree of professional competence in a very high readiness context, while consistently displaying exceptional Commando skills and fitness.

The second award was the Clifford Coates Trophy, awarded to the best Sqn that took part in the 2019 series of Commando Logistics Regiment CO’s annual sporting events. The Commando Logistic Regiment RM is made up of seven Sqns and some 850 personnel the majority being Royal Marines.

8 Brig Jackson presents the CGRM’s Commendation

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8 CLR ranks keeping warm on the ‘Survive’ phase of Winter Warfare course

Ex CETUS ENABLER 19 On 11 Nov 19, 15 ranks from LSS deployed to Bardufoss, Norway for Ex CETUS ENABLER 19, to conduct the Cold Weather Warfare course. After mandatory lectures, students deploy into the field to spend nights in a ten man tent, a four man tent and then finally a night in a survival shelter.

After collapsing the survival shelters, extraction from the training is via snow shoes to conduct the infamous ice breaking drills. Week two consists of mobility on a variety of terrains.

Despite three feet of fresh snow, week three began with more kit issues, inspections and admin, before deployed after dark on the Monday to insert into two fully tactical troop harbour locations. The following days comprised lessons on section attacks and methods of movement with numerous actions.

Recce patrols were carried out and harbour locations moved, prior to a tactical extraction back to camp for a set of orders for the final attack.

The training area was beginning to clear of deep snow and mobility was getting better, so the Troop pushed on towards the final objective. With fire support in position, the Troop advanced and captured the village which was then held until End Ex was called.

There was a swift extraction via TCV back to Bardufoss for some well-earned Norwegian beer!

Overall, this training was a great

experience and left everyone ready and excited to come back for some continuation training postChristmas leave.

UAV Trials at CLR – By Sgt Hayes 3 Cdo Bde is currently trialling the TRV150 Unmanned Air Vehicle. This will be a new asset allowing the resupply of up to 68kg over an 80km return trip. This is essential to the FCF concept as it gives nearly instant resupply in any terrain.

On 16 Oct 19 LS Sqn deployed to Twenty Nine Palms, California, to develop and trial the logistics drone.

The team of eight, led by Lt Freddie Sochon, tested the Molloy TRV150 and gained experience programming the system and planning autonomous missions.

Malloy provided three support personnel, who offered valuable advice and experience.

The size of the training area and the good weather provided a perfect opportunity to do some testing.

These tests looked closely at battery time whilst carrying various payloads, the GPS system for payload delivery and the drop mechanism for dropping the payload.

Still in the early stage of development, the system showed the capability to develop into a valuable asset. The GPS system along with the drop mechanism proved to be a success by repeatedly dropping the payload on the mark.

Trials continue and it is hoped to simultaneously fly UAV and drop payloads on the same mission.

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Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) BENSON, OXFORDSHIRE OC: Maj E Andrews • SSM: WO2 G Johnson Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS), based at RAF Benson in Oxfordshire, continues its worldwide presence supporting operations and exercises at home and overseas, with an enduring commitment of personnel and equipment to Op NEWCOMBE, Mali and BFSAI, Falkland Islands.

Winter 2019/2020 also saw three personnel deployed to Bardufoss in Norway to train with Commando MAOT for Ex CLOCKWORK 20.

Sqn pers have also deployed to northern Norway where hours of daylight are counted on one hand.

After undergoing Arctic climatic training, the troops were out on the ground with Cdo MAOT managing the landing sites and underslung load operations for a range of helicopter platforms such as Apaches, Wildcats and Chinooks.

In addition, they had the opportunity to qualify on the BV allterrain vehicle, which means that JHSS can now deliver all parts of helicopter handling in extreme cold weather. Ex CLOCKWORK has provided an excellent platform to increase the range of strings to JHSS’s bow.

Alongside the Ops and Ex support, at home JHSS MT section provided RAF Benson with some crucial road safety training, in advance of the Christmas break and adverse winter weather.

Cpl Wakeham was the lead for the Sqn and said: “RAF Benson’s annual Road Safety Campaign

8 Cpl Wakeham providing winter vehicle checks

JHSS In the Arctic Circle

was a station wide initiative was led by MT Trade Training and Licensing (MTTT+L). LCpl Clarke

and I were involved in events as we are part of the Station Road Safety Committee. We provided free winter checks for all personnel and dependants’ cars.”

Cpl Wakeham added: “We also had the Road Safety Simulator out for people to come and try out which was a great success. We conducted speed checks on vehicles using the Speed Indication Device to highlight to drivers the dangers of speeding to pedestrians, especially to children.”

And to target the nationwide spike in drink driving incidents over Christmas, Cpl Wakeham delivered a Drink Driving presentation to the whole Sqn prior to Christmas stand down to ensure a safe break was had by all personnel; who are now all safely back and ready to deliver rotary support into the new decade.

Finally, congratulations to the SSM WO2 Guy Johnson on his promotion to WO1 RSM. In the Spring he will take up his new role as RSM at 4 Reg RLC, based at Dalton Barracks.

8 WO2 Guy Johnson

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Defence School of Transport LECONFIELD CO: Col CJ Henson QGM The Defence School of Transport has not featured much in The Sustainer previously – Although a Tri-Service unit it plays a fundamental role in delivering capability to the Corps.

An article therefore is long overdue.

2019 was a significant year for DST. Delivering Initial Trade training (ITT) to service personnel is a key part (30%) of DST business and in Jul 19, the School was delighted to take 25 Regt RLC under command. This, coupled with the announcement from Commander Field Army to widen the opportunity for licence acquisition for RLC trainees, has given DST a pivotal role in training and shaping all RLC ITT students as they arrive from basic training.

Additionally, the introduction of the Combat Logistician’s Course in Sep 19 represents a big change in how RLC soldiers are prepared for life in their first unit.

The development of the Combat Logistician course is a Sustainer article in itself; right now, DST is still in the pilot phase in terms of its delivery. Its current form incorporates ‘Driving Licence Acquisition’, from category B to C + E, the new benchmark for all RLC trades. On gaining the necessary licences, students progress to ‘Conversion Training’ where they learn to drive military vehicles and conduct tactical mounted training.

Interwoven throughout the course is the Logistical Foundation; providing students with an overview of The RLC and a focus on Basic Close Combat Skills, reinforcing soldier abilities and wider logistic knowledge.

The course typically takes 12 weeks to complete but having gained Category B licences prior to arrival at DST, Ptes Barry, Moody and Daniels completed the course ahead of schedule, much to the pleasure of the new Commandant DST, Colonel Chris Henson QGM, who assumed appointment in Oct 19.

25 Regt RLC sits at the centre of 70

RLC student’s lives at Leconfield, but much of the technical and practical driver training is delivered by the elements of the four technical training squadrons elsewhere within the school. Initial licence acquisition training is delivered by the Driver Training Squadron (DTS). With civilian licences secured, students will move to Military Driver Training Squadron (MDTS) to learn how to apply basic driving skills within a tactical setting and in military vehicles. For some, further specialist driver training including MHE, EOD Vehicle and other technical courses are delivered by the Specialist Training and MT Management Squadron (STMS) and CSS communicators will all move on to instruction under the CIS Training Squadron.

DST is committed to enhancing driving skills over and above its formal training role. In Nov 19, DST

8 Ex RADMASTER delivered a safe and skilled driving competition using service vehicles hosted Ex ROADMASTER, with the British Army Motorsports Association (BAMA). The exercise delivered a safe and skilled driving competition using service vehicles, testing individual driving skills and navigational ability. The event was a great success; competitors from DST and 104 Regiment Royal Artillery were challenged and tested over DST’s 26 Km of off-road circuits. Ex ROADMASTER will return to DST in 2020.

Recognition DST is subject to a regular series of inspections from external sources.

The Movement and Transport Safety Regulator and the External Qualification Authority have recently tested the competence and professionalism of its staff and procedures. It’s great to see the hard work of DST’s staff get recognised - The MTSR Inspectors assessed the DELTA team’s work as best practice and the EQA assessed the delivery of RM driving courses as outstanding. In addition, Sgt’s Bishop, Oiller and Orrell, and Corporal’s Walker and Wilson, were awarded LS&GC medals in Dec 19 by Commandant DCLPA, Brigadier Caldicott CBE. 8 The first graduates from DST’s Combat Logistician course

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105 Logistic Support Squadron (BATUS) OC: Maj L Davis

The exercise season in BATUS may have finished some months ago, but 105 Logistic Support Squadron has been working hard over the last four months to prepare for Ex PRAIRIE PHEONIX. As ever, a vast quantity of materiel and supplies have been managed by the Sqn, all of which must be processed by 105 Provision Control and Accounts (PC&A).

One of the primary efforts of the Sqn throughout the winter months is to ensure that the REME contingent in BATUS has sufficient spares and equipment, so that all platforms are catered for during the winter repair. The staff in PC&A process demands against ongoing jobs on JAMES and subsequently place requests back to the UK. This process continues for the duration of the repair programme, where an average of 18,017 demands are administered. Of these, 16,179 were satisfied by 105 Sqn, and 1,838 were extracted to depot.

Further challenges were also presented by the arrival of the Logistic Support Audit and Inspection (LSA&I) team in Nov 19, however the PC&A department passed with flying colours and received well deserved positive feedback from the inspectors.

In addition, the Sqn has been involved with the reverse supply chain, with the management of Planned Repair (PR) items in BATUS being a further responsibility of 105 Log Sp Sqn. On average, the CAT 1 clerk will send back 1,000 carcasses to their respective depots between September and December. The E&MA cell has also been diligently working alongside DE&S project teams and the REME in order to maintain the sufficient supply of high usage items and resources throughout the winter repair period.

Not to be outdone by sheer numbers, the Stores troop statistics from over the period were also staggering. Nearly 7,000 receipts

had been processed by the department, in addition to a total of 10,267 issues. In terms of freight, the storehouse has received 2,893 packages by sea and 1,323 by air, all of which are ultimately broken down into their respective storage areas or dependents by hand on the shop floor.

The F&L department has enjoyed a relatively quiet period over the last four months. With 302,687l of diesel and 150,263l of Ulgas being issued in support of Ex PRAIRIE PHEONIX. The department has also said farewell to Cpl Havis, the F&L

8 The OC enjoys the ‘friendly’ rivalry at the ultimate frisbee tournament

8 Kayaking is just one of the AT opportunities available to soldiers at 105

2IC and Cpl Sunnar after 18 months in BATUS. A warm welcome is extended to their replacements Cpl Jones and Cpl Makhura. The year was rounded off with a visit from the Head of Trade WO1 (Cdr) Paul Franks.

Although the members of 105 Sqn are still working hard throughout the winter months, the departure of the exercising battle groups does allow for some brief leisure time. On 6 Nov 19, the Sqn held an ultimate frisbee competition between the different departments and units in BATUS. Fun was had by all, with emphasis being put on mustering a friendly rivalry between the troops.

The OC seemed to particularly enjoy this aspect of the afternoon.

This event was not the only respite from work though, as numerous members of the squadron also managed to enjoy AT, with alpine skiing, ice climbing and kayaking being particularly popular.

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44 Support Squadron Royal Military Academy SANDHURST OC: Maj K Carpenter • SSM: WO1 S Clarke EX DYNAMIC VICTORY (DV) is the final exercise for all Officer Cadets (OCdts) at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS).

44 Support Squadron's heavily used fleet of vehicles is used throughout this Ex. The Sqn emsures that over 300 personnel deploy to Germany for the Ex and then it supports all OCdt training for the duration. Last winter term, Cpl Tamang stepped up to act as Ex 2IC for the Sqn. It was an exceptionally exciting and interesting opportunity for this JNCO. This is his story.

The first challenge for me was the management of the 22 other drivers brought in from across the Army to support us for Ex DV. They all come from different cap badges, and all have different experiences and levels of driving skill. After welcoming them to the team, I took them through a series Ex briefs and familiarisation drives to ensure all were good to go to Germany. We had three days to do this before deploying, along with all our own drivers and some 50 vehicles!

Once in Grafenwöhr Training Area (GTA), the Transport IC and I attended daily briefings with the Ex Coordination team to ensure all training went off without a hitch.

Here I was briefing Snr Offrs on our work, offering guidance and advice on transport matters. I made sure that the Dvrs on the ground were looked after and got them to the American PX on occasion. It was

over their Veterans Day Sales, so there were some good bargains to be had.

Besides this and the daily support to training, there was other work I wanted to achieve. I aimed to deliver various lessons to our drivers in order to develop their skills and see them complete parts of their trade workbooks. With the help of the LAD, we were able to run some practical lessons on towing, self-recovery, changing wheels and level 1 repairs. We continued this training over the second phase of the Exercise. This phase involves a complete move of the Exercise, covering a distance of 55 miles to another training area. I was central to the planning and execution of this also.

8 The Ex taught drivers various lessons to develop their skills and see them complete parts of their trade workbooks At this stage we divided our troop in to two sections and deployed out to a FOB on 48 hour rotations. Section Commanders were in charge of any movement plan and all enjoyed this great opportunity and responsibility.

Along with further B3 to B2 training, we refreshed on some basic military skills and tactical lessons such as camouflage and concealment, patrol tac signs and harbour drills.

Overall, Ex DV was a great opportunity for me and those soldiers in the team, to get out, drive and do their job in a tactical environment. It is always a useful experience, and one that has helped me to grow professionally.

44 Support Sqn offers the opportunity for RLC Dvrs to come work with the Sqn for a term.

This gives them a chance to get further driving experience, complete trade work books and deploy to Europe. Please contact 44 Support Sqn or discuss it with your CoC if you are interested.

8 Troops were refreshed on some basic military skills including camouflage and concealment

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132 Aviation Supply Squadron Royal Logistics Corps IPSWICH OC: Maj K Mann • SSM: WO2 Madine It has been another busy period for 132 Squadron with deployments to the USA and Estonia in support of the Apache Attack Helicopter, whilst concurrently supporting 7 Bn REME, 3AAC and 4AAC back home. Despite this, those remaining back in camp still found the time and energy to involve themselves in extra-curricular activities.

On 31 Oct 19, soldiers from the Sqn, together with soldiers from across the Attack Helicopter Force and 16 Air Assault Brigade, participated in the annual poppy appeal by collecting at London’s Liverpool Street Station as part of London Poppy Day. Under the OC, Maj Kez Mann, the day commenced with a 0430hrs start outside the guardroom and finished just before midnight. As the day progressed, teams got to engage with many members of the public, who were interested in finding out the purpose of the day.

From the local businessmen to the everyday passer-by, many took time out of their busy day to donate or stop for a quick chat.

Passers-by were entertained with music being played by the bands of 1 RGR and Colchester Band of CAMUS, bringing life to the mundane commute for the Londoner’s and tourists. A number of soldiers got a chance to visit the

business sector of the city conducting ‘Corporate Walks’ and saw what makes the city tick.

The team was selected to host a visit by Ross Kemp and Britain’s Got Talent Winners Colin Thackery (2019) and LSgt Richard Jones (2016), with Ross Kemp spending 90 minutes at the station finding time to talk to everyone; their attendance proving a crowd pleaser and providing photo opportunities for many of the volunteers.

The event culminated with all volunteers being invited to meet at Leadenhall Market where some food and refreshments were provided free of charge. Another successful year, the total amount raised was £845K with the home team collecting £53,500, which was once again the largest collected by any of the stations in London that day.

8 Pte Shresta poses with Ross Kemp and Colin Thackery

Back at home, Pte Jess Taylor organised a charity event with the aim of raising money for Ipswich and Colchester Maternity units. A day of sport followed by an evening of dining where soldiers provided a range of foods reflective of the cultural diversity in the Sqn. With drinks and the raffle of prizes donated by local businesses, she managed to raise £242 which was gratefully received by the NHS Trusts.

One of the final events of the year saw the Sqn lead on the Bn JNCO leadership development package under Sgt Sarkodie-Danso in Aldershot. With the intent of progressing on from MATT 6 and the Army Leadership Code, the aim was to introduce JNCOs to wider leadership theory and practices.

The package avoided the usual activities of command tasks and leader briefs and included subjects such as Emotional Intelligence, Empowerment and Gen Stanley McChrystals Myths & Realities of Leadership. The final session was the delivery of a leadership toolkit, arming the JNCO’s with tools in which to use when planning and executing projects. The package was well delivered and the JNCO’s actively engaged with the event providing great feedback to the directing staff.

8 Presenting the cheque to Ipswich and Colchester Maternity Units

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Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion (ARRC) GLOUCESTERSHIRE CO: Lt Col N Thomas QDG • Adjt: Capt J Crowley • RSM: WO1 Hall

The last three months have been an incredibly busy for the ARRC Support Battalion with commitments seeing the Battalion compete in a variety of different sporting and military competitions, as well as deploying on a three-month exercise to provide its primary role as enablers for the ARRC HQ on Ex ARRCADE FUSION. The Battalion kicked off the last quarter by hosting the Commander ARRC Lt General Smyth-Osbourne and displaying its capabilities to support his Headquarters. While visiting he had the chance to present Cpl Charles RAMC with the US Army Achievement Medal for her excellent work on Ex RATTLESNAKE earlier in the year. A very well-deserved ending to a great display of the Battalion’s fighting power.

The honour of hosting the Bosnia Herzegovina Cambrian patrol team was bestowed on the Battalion and under the guidance of Staff Sgt Tilak QGE, it prepared a team for what is considered to be one of the hardest military skills events in the world, consisting of a 40-mile course with numerous military tasks while patrolling along the Cambrian Mountains of mid-Wales. The 74

Battalion team’s months of training kept it in good form and it built on last year’s Silver with a Gold, a truly incredible achievement for a group of soldiers who embody the spirit of the ARRC Support Battalion.

Deployment on ARRCADE FUSION in St Mawgan saw the Battalion reset and get ready for entering the period of high readiness. It was the first time the Battalion had been deployed fully onto the ARRC HQ exercise, requiring an adaptability and flexibility of design and operation.

The movement phase saw the Battalion step up and lift enough kit and equipment from Imjin Barracks to RAF St Mawgan in order to sustain over 1,500 troops. Then came the huge task of building the Corps HQ and delivering RLS throughout, an exercise that was not made easy by the inclement weather and the high winds.

It was a fantastic training exercise and a refresher for many of the skills and ideas needed to maintain a Corps HQ. The exercise was also a great opportunity for the Battalion to show its collective readiness and it rose to the occasion spectacularly, with numerous accolades being bestowed on the soldiers for their

8 The honour of hosting the Bosnia Herzegovina Cambrian patrol team was bestowed on the Battalion exceptional work. Including but not exclusively: Cpl Rakesh QOGLR and Pte Bishwas QOGLR who achieved the Command Sgt Majors coin for their excellent work on protected Mobility for the Commanders Staff and LCpl Ushal and Cpl Lalit RGR receiving the ARRC Chief of Staff coin, for delivering exceptional physical training to the Chief of Staff himself.

The year finished with the Battalion Alpine Ski team deploying to Hemsedal in Norway under Lt Kelvey-Brown to take part in The RLC Alpine Ski race training camp on Ex KNEES BEND. The conditions where excellent with temperatures dropping down as low as -11 degrees. A mixed team this year with three experienced race skiers, two novice skiers and one team member who had never skied before, but with all seeing huge improvement while on the twoweek training camp.

Lastly, there was some good news in the form of promotions with Capt Rachel Gibbs and Capt Ganesh Gurung being selected for promotion to Major.

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SPORT | THE SUSTAINER

By Maj Jonathan Ottaway

RLC ENDURO The RLC Enduro team is taking this opportunity to highlight some of our recent successes, as well as to look forward to a highly competitive and busy year of racing ahead.

In late 2019 the team travelled to the South of France to conduct a seven-day training camp, at a world class Enduro, Motorcross and off-road riding facility. With torrential rain as well as 42C heat, the week tested both the riders and the bikes, but the experience was perfect to improve the skills, endurance and abilities. The RLC team also used this opportunity to conduct some key Defence Engagement with our French Allies.

The RLC Enduro team is currently based out of 9 Regt, so we contacted its French partner regt, 121 Du Train, who sent personnel down to stay and ride with the team. A great experience for everyone involved!

In the UK the team continued its great work with the Army recruitment team, setting up an Enduro stand for three days in Western-Super-Mare, as well as competing in the beach race. LCpl Phillips performed exceptional well in this bonkers event, finishing in the top third of the 724 riders and lived to tell the tale. The team, the riders and the bikes were well received by the public, who spent a considerable amount of time at the RLC Enduro stand.

With the UK Enduro Championships coming to a close, it was time for the RLC team to focus its involvement with the World Enduro Championship and the World ISDE 6-Day Enduro in

Portugal. SSgt Hicks was lucky enough to be selected to represent the British Army, but due to an unfortunate injury was unbale to ride at the event. After being told this disappointing news, he stepped up, taking on the role of team manager.

A proud moment for an RLC Enduro team rider, managing the British Army team, at such a prestigious event. Following on from the success at the ISDE and SSgt Hicks’s great organisational skills and leadership, it was agreed that he should continue to manage the British Army team, throughout the 2020 season.

The New Year brought the replacement of team bikes, after a hard 2019 season. We continue to ride KTMs, but in order to stay competitive we have purchased the latest in bike technology. A number of the teams two-stroke bikes now run fuel injection and the ability to remotely map the bikes with different performance settings, depending on the track and weather conditions. LCpl Phillips made a big change on bike selection for the 2020 season, moving from the high revving 150cc two-stroke, to a more torque driven 250 four-stroke machine.

8 The team will ride KTM bikes with upgraded technology in 2020

Finally, with the British Enduro Championship starting in the coming weeks, 9 Regt played host to the first round of the Army Inter Corps Enduro Championships, which saw a field of over 70 riders attend, with personnel also coming from the Navy and RAF. Working with our good friends in the RE and REME Enduro teams, the course was set for this three-hour event.

Fog, ice, mud and then rain helped them experience a truly testing competition on a January afternoon at Buckley Barracks. After a hard fought. but enjoyable event, the RLC team finished second. With bikes and riders in one piece, it was a truly successful day.

Away from the tracks, the RLC and Army Enduro teams are growing in professionalism and popularity. We would like to thank the riders, event staff and our supporters - including RHQ The RLC and the ASCB. Without their selfless commitment, time, advice and enthusiasm, this sport would not be where it is today. Thank you!

If you would like to follow, get involved with the team or simply ask a question, like and follow us on: Facebook: Army MCA The Royal Logistic Corps Motorcycle Enduro Team Instagram: RLCenduroteam Army_enduro 8 SSgt Hicks represented the Army at the World ISDE

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORT

Credit: Captain Jordan Kemp

8 Capt Tim Squire was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to facilitating Corps Alpine Racing

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Credit: Foto Kaesberg

Ex SKI RLC 2020

admin and race teams, I can understand how the experience could benefit any member of the Corps from Private soldier to CO”.

These sentiments were echoed

by Cpl Emma Drew, the Nordic team SQMS and previous National Level Biathlete, “I love seeing old friends from across the Corps.

Being able to facilitate racing and pass on my experience is a privilege. Everyone is really appreciative of the work the admin team do behind the scenes and it makes our job worthwhile.”

SSM Guy Johnson, a regular Alpine race enabler, talked of the relevance of ski racing to soldiering. “The competition brings together people from all ranks and trades in a controlled competitive environment which encourages team cohesion and builds Esprit de Corps. It takes huge physical courage to throw yourself down a mountain at speed. The skiers feel the pressure to deliver for their teams and overcome their fears”.

This year the Championships were supported by the RLC Corps of Drums, who added a real sense of occasion to the Prize-Giving ceremonies and the Patrol Race start line.

LCpl Will Morris, deployed as

8 The Dangerous Pte Daryl Maxwell, 154 Regiment smashing down the Slalom course

the IC Corps of Drums but was also racing for the first time with the RHQ The RLC team, “Being able to ski during the day and showcase the Corps of Drums in the evening has been a great opportunity. We hope to be back next year and enter a full Corps of Drums race team!”

The exercise was visited by 20 regimental command teams who came to visit their racers and support the Championships.

Lt Col (Retd) “Goody” Goodson, has been doing the race results since

Credit: Foto Kaesberg

389 Alpine and Nordic skiers from across the Royal Logistic Corps took to the slopes of Bavaria in February, for the annual Corps Skiing Championships. Ex SKI RLC is the biggest ski-meet in the British Army and is routinely well attended by 33 Reserve and Regular units who entered 55 teams in both Alpine and Nordic categories this year.

Stakes were high with a total of 208 prizes to be won over the fortnight. Teams competed in five major races in each discipline, which culminated in the two Blue Ribbon events - the Super G and Patrol Race. With an increase in silverware and a notable improvement in the calibre of skiing, the competition was fierce.

154 Regiment, who were the first Reserve unit to win the Patrol Race, took the overall Championship Cup, knocking last year’s champions, 1 Regt, into second place.

6 Regt RLC organised the event for the second year in a row and Major Sip Powers, the exercise planner, is an avid supporter of the Championships. “I was previously a “non-skiing” outsider who is now a full believer of the value of SKI RLC. Having witnessed the dedication and commitment required by both

#WeAreTheRLC

8 For the first time the Armed Forces Para Snowsports Team (AFPST) raced in the Nordic Championships

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SPORT | THE SUSTAINER Credit: Foto Kaesberg

#WeAreTheRLC

8 154 Regiment won the overall RLC Championship Cup, with 1 Regiment the Runners-Up 1992; next year will be his 30th Anniversary of attending the event.

“This exercise is the end of a season of training for the skiers and

is crucial in the pathway to talent spot for future Corps, Army and National representation.”

Full race results: www.awsa.org.uk Credit: Captain Jordan Kemp

8 A pre-work sunrise ski for the exercise

8 3 Commando Logistic Regiment lining

8 Corps of Drums, Corps Col Francis and President of RLC Winter Sports Association, Col Kimber

Credit: Foto Kaesberg

up for the Patrol Race inspection

Credit: Captain Jordan Kemp

Credit: Captain Jordan Kemp

admin team, Major Powers and Cpl Fuller

8 6 Regiment Nordic Women’s Team on the ranges during the Patrol Race

Results 1. Capt Tim Squire – Lifetime achievement award 2. Corps Colours: 2. a. Capt Hattie Bennett 2. b. LCpl Chris Brown 2. c. Pte Daryl Maxwell 2. d. Pte Morgan Whyte 2. e. Pte Seb Wilson 3. RLC Champions – 154 Regt 4. RLC Reserve Champions – 154 Regt 5. Patrol Race: 2. a. Women 1 Regt 2. b. Men 154 Regt 6. Alpine Team and Reserves Champions – 154 Regt 7. Nordic Men and Women Champions – 1 Regt 8. Nordic Reserves Men Champions – 154 Regt 9. Nordic Reserves Women Champions – 157 Regt 10. Men Nordic Champion – LCpl Chris Brown 17 P&M 11. Women Nordic Champion – LCpl Becky Wilson Abingdon Station 12. Men Alpine Champion – WO2 Mike Robertson 154 Regt 13. Women Alpine Champion – 2Lt Morvan Todd 154 Regt

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORT The 2019 RLC Squash Championships were held over the slightly earlier dates of 29 – 31 Oct 19 at Winchester Racquets and Fitness Club.

This was to allow for selection of The RLC Squash teams to compete in the Army Inter Corps Championships which were held 12 – 14 Nov 19.

Competition entries this year were considerably lower than previous years, however three full days and over 150 matches were enjoyed by all who attended. In total, 47 players entered across five competition categories: Open, Closed/Novice, Ladies, Veterans and Team.

Additionally, a plate competition was run for those players who were knocked out in the first or second round of the Open and Closed competitions.

A now strong tradition, the annual RLC Squash dinner was again attended by guests who had previously represented both the Forming Corps, RLC and Army competitively at squash, with guests travelling from all corners of the United Kingdom. Guests were joined for dinner by the Honorary President of Army Squash, Maj Gen (Retd) Seamus Kerr CBE, who is thanked for his kind words on the evening and his continuing support to the game.

After a busy and successful competition, the Chair of Army Squash, Lt Col Yvette Ashman AGC presented prizes to all category winners. As well as complimenting the standard of play in the category finals, she was very impressed by the turnout for The RLC Championships.

The Chain of Command are respectfully asked to support RLC Squash where possible and encourage attendance from all standards of players to Army and Corps Squash events.

RLC Squash Championships Results Open Winner Runner Up Ladies Winner Closed Winner Runner Up Veterans Winner Runner Up Team Winner Runner Up Plate Winner Runner Up

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Individual and Inter Unit Squash Championships

8 RLC Squash A & B Teams at the Army Inter Corps Squash Championships 2019

8 LCpl Shaun O’Donoghue (L) receiving Corps Sports Colours from the President of RLC Squash, Maj Gen (Retd) Seamus Kerr CBE Corps Colours Recipients WO2 Andre Hill Sgt Anne Marie Whitehead LCpl Shaun O’Donoghue Army Inter Corps Squash Championships 2019 Once again, despite nominating 14 players for The RLC squads in Division 1 & 2 of this competition, duty commitments prevented two selected players representing the

SSgt Boys WO2 Scarah Cpl Lynch WO2 Butterworth Cpl Tamang WO2 Scarah WO2 Black 10 QOGLR A 10 QOGLR B Cpl Sanjaya Cpl Suresh

RLC. The RLC A Team was again up against it due to the previous RLC Squash Chairman transferring to R Sigs which left an already apparent gulf between No 1 and No 2 players even bigger. Despite this, the team dug in well and with the assistance of tactical resting of players, produced some fantastic results which resulted in an extremely credible third position in Division 1.

Sadly, the absence of some selected players for The RLC squad was to have a considerable impact on how the B team fared in this year’s competition. Despite some battling performances all round, the lack of depth in the squad was to prove costly and unfortunately, The RLC B team was relegated to Division 3 of Army squash. But we’re sure this setback will only be temporary and they will be back in Division 2 in 2020.

Despite the disappointment for RLC B team, the team spirit shown throughout the Championships by all involved was outstanding. Every time there was an RLC player on court, there was a wall of blue behind them supporting and encouraging, demonstrating the true meaning of esprit de corps. We are the RLC! 8 Anyone interested in playing RLC squash should contact the secretary, WO2 Andy Black on 94731 2065 or andrew.black921@mod.gov.uk for further information.

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OBITUARY | THE SUSTAINER

8 Col GT Spate OBE TD DL, Vice-President of the Waggon Club The President, Chairman and members of the Waggon Club committee regret to announce the passing of their Vice President, Colonel Gordon Spate.

Below is a tribute to Colonel Gordon as a mark of respect and appreciation of his 50 years of membership and the work he has done for the Club.

It is with great sadness that we have to record the death of Col Gordon Spate who died on 29 December, aged 87.

Gordon had a resounding career in the Army Reserve, from a National Service commission in the RAF Regiment, to a full Colonel appointment in the Army before retiring in 1987.

A major part of his service was in 151 (Greater London) Regiment RCT, where he was 2IC and Training Major to Lt Cols Donald Burns, Brian Ridley, and Alec Bisset. He then commanded the Regiment from 1977 - 1979 and was promoted after a most successful tour to Colonel, South London District.Throughout

his command he was a great supporter of the RASC/RCT Luncheon Club and, of course, the Waggon Club.

After service with HQ London District he, accompanied by his wife Pamela, went on a tour to Panama with British Petroleum, with whom he had a distinguished and successful career, at the end of which he was awarded the OBE. He was appointed Deputy Lieutenant in 1994 for the Borough of Waltham Forest and was awarded the Freedom on his retirement in 2006.

Gordon was a long standing member of the RAF Club, where he delighted in hosting a wide range of friends. He was also a wellrespected member of his local community of Hockwold-cum-Wilton in Norfolk. For leisure, he and Pamela delighted in travelling widely, especially throughout France, where Gordon claimed he had a nose for a good wine.

For Waggon Club members, it was Gordon’s tenure as our Chairman that elevated, in many ways, the reputation of the Club. Gordon had very high standards and woe betide anyone who took him on with unsupported views. He joined The Waggon Club in 1973 at the invitation of Colonel “Spider”Wheeler, who addressed the invitation letter to “Dear Spate”, a fact that Colonel Gordon found to be ‘charming’. He spent much of his time encouraging members with appropriate skills for committee management and to the development of the Club to realise its potential in the Reserve Army and beyond. All of which have been endorsed thoroughly by our current Chairman and President.

He became Club Chairman in 1993 and stood down at the 2003 AGM, his tenth anniversary in the post and in appreciation of his service to the Club, he was elected VicePresident of the Waggon Club at the AGM on 17 May 2003, an honour he so well deserved.

We shall miss him.

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THE SUSTAINER | LAST POST

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LAST POST Atkinson - On 19 July 2019, Mr G W Atkinson RAOC Baldry - On 18 January 2020 Col P Baldry OBE TD Late RCT Birse - On 5 December 2019, Maj E W Birse RAOC Bowden - On 9 January 2020 Lt Col G Bowden TD RCT Brinsden - On 28 May 2019, Mr D S Brinsden RAOC Burgess - On 8 February 2020 Helga Burgess Casbolt - On 22 January 2020, Lt Col B D Casbolt MBE RAOC Chambers - On 1 October 2019, Maj Gen P A Chambers CB MBE Late RAOC Davies - On 19 September 2019, Mr D Davies RAOC Dray - On 1 January 2020 Brig R Dray Late RCT Driscoll - On 22 July 2019, Mr B C Driscoll RAOC Eastwood - On 16 August 2019, Mr A Eastwood RAOC Esslemont - On 16 January 2020, Mr A W Esslemont RAOC Ewart - On 28 January 2020 Maj B Ewart TD Late RCT Frangos - On 16 February 2020, Mr T Frangos RAOC Godwin - On 29 December 2019, Mr R Godwin RAOC Graham - On 20 January 2020 Mr J Graham RCT Grant - On 14 January 2020, Maj J G Grant RAOC Griffin - On 6 January 2020 Mr EWO Griffin RCT Gritton - On 13 October 2019, Maj M J D Gritton RAOC Hannigan - On 6 November 2019, Mr R A Hannigan RAOC Haynes - On 1 February 2020 W Haynes RCT Hayward - On 4 November 2019, Maj H T Hayward RAOC Hobbs - On 22 December 2019 Maj DFD Hobbs RCT Howard - On 31 July 2019, Mr C Howard RAOC Jeffrey - On 30 December 2019, Lt Col B Jeffrey RAOC Lawton - On 13 October 2019, Lt Col R A Lawton RAOC Loftus - Date not known Mr B Loftus RCT

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Longmoor - On 26 October 2019, Maj R D Longmoor RAOC Lord - In January 2020 Mr P Lord RCT Lucas - On 15 September 2019, Mr T F Lucas RAOC Lukins - On 25 November 2019 Mrs A Lukins RCT Mallon - On 9 Aug 2019, Mr J Mallon RAOC Mangham - On 11 January 2020, Maj J O Mangham RAOC Martin - On 30 November 2019, Mr T Martin RAOC Maxwell - On 6 September 2019, Mr R Maxwell RAOC Murray - On 22 Janaury 2020, Mr I Murray RAOC Newnham - On 14 December 2019, Col A J Newnham Late RAOC Nisbet - On 19 December 2019, Maj A D I Nisbet RAOC Pape - On 6 September 2019, Mr R A Pape RAOC Penrose - On 14 September 2019, Mr L Penrose RAOC Price - On 29 December 2019 Maj IW Price RCT Puckley - On 9 December 2019 Mr Paul Puckley RCT Read - On 25 August 2019, Mr R A Read RAOC Ryan - On 17 November 2019, Mr B P Ryan RAOC Shuttleworth - On 30 March 2019, Mr R Shuttleworth RAOC Sismey - On 27 January 2020 Mr D Sismey RCT Smith - On 9 September 2019, Mr S J Smith RAOC Spate - On 29 December 2019 Col G Spate Late RCT Speight - On 4 January 2020 Mr G Speight RCT Stringer - On 24 May 2019, Mr N Stringer RAOC Swift - On 20 December 2019 I/P CF Swift RCT Webb - On 29 August 2019, Mr C G Webb RAOC Westlake - On 17 January 2020 Mrs J Westlake (RCT) Wilby - On 20 December 2019, Mr V Wilby RAOC Williams - On 19 October 2019, Mr J T Williams RAOC Wood - On 3 January 2020, Lt Col T Wood MBE RAOC

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Sustainer SPRING 2020_Layout 1 11/03/2020 20:57 Page 81

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EST It was hop integrity ia, Estonia of these ed and border nat that with the terr protective itorial ions sec umbrella ured und aggressive of Article er the Westward 5, Russian with any expansion potential notion would be for curtailed, Whilst this of a Soviet Union along for the mo tactic has constrainin dern age been larg g Russian ely succes . geographi sfu c borders, hard power wit hin its trad l in it has pro in equal measure. ven undenia itional Russian rela bly antago at their low tions with nistic est ebb sinc the West subsequen e the end are now t incursio of the Col ns in the could wel Crimea and d War and their l be Eastern Ukr in respons viewed as a bout of retaliato e to extern aine ry ‘muscle al been una flexing’ ble to pre pressure. NATO’s Does a resu strategy vent Rus abroad. The rgent Rus has also sia from sia pose successful exerting a threat constructin Assad and def to NATO influence g paralys the provinc ence of its Syrian security? ing grey and institut Russia’s ally Bashar spaces in ions re-emerge ial interests he sec Alnce in contempor Russia has that can be exploite the policies of stat ures, sign a region ary Wester alled es d for poli been at revolution tical gain n activity player with dom the ina pio ted . Still sha . , and mo neering in a wider by re importa ckled by forefront overt mili global con However, the of this ntly tary tex Col as a action tha despite Rus t. has had t NATO suc d War constraints longer affo sia’s growin to find rd cessfully on g influenc alternative imposes, achieving must now to fix its gaze sole e, NATO can Russia and innova ly in one her look beyond no obj ectives. direction Russian tive me academiasee those add its traditio Thi and indeed General nal itional cha Valery Ger s emerged in the ans of doctrine turn of the llenges tha sphere of interes asimov’s form of for ‘Non-li 21st Cen t to revolution t have aris near war p.1). Sub tury. Com constantly ary military fare en with the sequent plex emerging subversive ’ in 2013 (Popescu, and Eas to challen and irregular entities NATO see 2015, p.

Russian acti tern Ukr ge the We ks to pro are aine hav ons tect. The capabilities stern valu particular in the e demons rise of Isla es of asymm has spawne trated the Crimea mic extrem that etric conflict Russia to factions, d a effe sud including ctive ism in achieve terrorist gro den prevalence its politica at a state level, allo sidesteppin Boko Har of these l objectives ups such am and Al-S wing g NATO’s as Al-Qaed convention say that habaab, reb Front and whilst nea a, Daesh, NATO has al restrain fun el tly been blin ts. This is Julio Mir Taliban. The damentalist politica groups like the Al-N d anda Cal l org usra se clandes ha of the to Russian actions not to Committee non-state tine, isolate anisations, such . Genera NATO Def drafted a as the actors, ope d and geo l ence and report in NATO’s new failing reg rating pre graphicall Security 2015 ent y fluid dominan imes, pre strategic tly Russian sent an organisatio challenge? itled, ‘Hybrid warfare activities unorthodox out of failed or n establis ’ In this : in des hed challenge the Crim super-state he examin cribing how to constra ea and to an . ed in a static they ‘Exp Eas non tern and -military With the perceptible Ukraine, emergenc means (su loited domestic wea economic e of to NATO, ch as pol intimidatio itical, info knesses via it is importa such diverse con n and ma threat of temporary rmational, traditional nt to exa nipulation) threats convention and mine the , but backed and concealed al pressures exerting and innovative, that by the these ent , both and below military means…w to underst ities response.’ hile rem align itse the thre and how aining (Miranda lf to cope sho NATO is ma are capable of ld of a Calha, 201 with these. noeuvring Multiple NAT convention What is 5, p. p.6). to reundeniabl al O review forthcomin e is that today are s and pub g and in the challen lica infinitely tion s have sinc October more dyn Excellence ges facing of the pre 2017, e been amic and for Counte vious cen NATO complex tury. This In conjun ring Hybrid the European Cen continual than those can be attr ction with tre of long-term Threats was ibu this ass suc ted , NAT strategy ist any Ally established in preven cess of the super-b in part to the . against hyb O has outlined its defence.’ ting larg protagoni lock’s det strategy: rid threats (NATO 201 sts to pur e scale errent ‘To as part of 8). This incl sue more for greate conflict, their aim collective r inte ude subversive forcing s. What we see means to and propag r-state cooperatio s a collective agreem Former U.S conseq achieve n to counte anda, as ent .

Analysis r hybrid thre well as categories Secretary of Defenc uently is describ the Bra ed by ats nch’ wit of warfare e Robert inception Security hin NAT neat, tidy Gates as: of a ‘Hy blu O’s Join Division brid “The boxes.” (Gle rring and no lon t Intellige and the support terminolog ger nn, 2009, nce and formation teams’ in y that has p.1). The fitting into of ‘Count 2018 to assistance ‘Hybrid come to predomina er-hybrid provide: Warfare’. to encapsula nt ‘Tailored First responding Allies upon their te this is insurgency targeted request, that of to hybrid of 2002 and described during in pre acti par military thin These new vities.’ (NA the Che yet only gain chen TO, 2018). ing for and king follo tools, red ing trac Article 5, wing the efining the the intent have play Second Leb tion in Western of hybrid remit of ed an influ anon Wa localised NATO’s orig warfare paramete ential r in 2006, resp is to obs rs of wha inal cure the t can legi Europe. Buf onse to Russia’s asy and effective role traditional timately in the mmetric fer be defined actions in Poland now states such as Est as conflict Eastern onia, Latvia, , armed wit hold a permanen Lithuania t NATO h the me and military ans to def presence, end themse lves not only Photo: www.n ato.int

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You are invited to submit an essay for publication in the 2020-2021 RLC Review Since its formation in April 2015, the focus of the RLC Foundation has been to promote professional engagement with industry and academia and share best practice; maintain awareness of innovation and to encourage and facilitate thought leadership.

As part of this process The RLC Foundation is inviting officers, soldiers, veterans and civilians working for the military, or in the logistics industry and academia, to contribute thought provoking essays to the 2020-2021 Review. The Review is the professional journal of the RLC and is distributed to members of the Corps serving at home and abroad. This includes all NATO headquarters and the exchange officers based in the USA and Australia. It is also sent to all RLC Foundation corporate partners, supporters and friends.

Essays may be written under the following overarching categories: • Professional Development • General Interest • Operations and Training • Historical Cash prizes There are cash prizes for the best contribution in each category. Prizes are also awarded to: • The best contribution overall • The best contribution by an officer

• Best contribution by a warrant officer or senior non-commissioned officer • Best contribution by a junior non-commissioned officer • Best contribution by a junior officer • Best contribution by a private soldier • Best contribution by a civilian Rules Essays must not exceed 5,000 words and must be properly referenced and supported with good quality relevant illustrations and images.

All articles submitted for publication will be read and marked by the senior officers that make up the RLC Foundation Review board. The prize winners will then be selected from the essays they judge as good enough for publication.

8 The closing date for submissions for the 2020-2021 Review is 31 May 2020 Entries are open now and submissions should be sent to Chrissie Ross at: Chrissie.Ross100@mod.gov.uk

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THE ROYAL ROYA AL L LOGISTIC OGISTIC C CORPS ORPS OPEN DAY DAY Saturday Saturday 4th July 2020 Duke of Duke of Glouces Gloucester ter Barracks, Barracks, South C Cerney, erney, Nr Cirencester, Cirencester, Glouces Gloucestershire tershire GL7 5RD • Football Football and Rugb Rugby y 7s • Military Military Band and the Pipes and Drums of of the RLC RLC • The RLC RLC Enduro Enduro motorcycle motorcycle display team • The RL RLC C Eques Equestrian trian display team • The Silver Silver Stars Stars par parachute achute display ȟ ¤g ×ūŕŕĚNjċîŕŕ ǛŠîŕ ×ūŕŕĚNjċîŕŕ ǛŠîŕ ȟ ¤g •T Tug ug u oW War ar and The RL RLC C ‘S ‘Strongman’ trongman’ competition competition

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