154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

DUNFERMLINE

It was a flurry of activity for 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC in the run-up to Christmas. Ex MUDMASTER was one of the highlights at the end of last year, with civilians and military personnel putting their off-road driving, recovery and navigational skills to the test.

The 100-mile route started in Edinburgh and finished in Glasgow, travelling across some of the most difficult terrain for off-road driving the UK has to offer! The Regt saw some successes in a variety of categories. LCpl Brooks and OCdt Worden came first in the truck category, while Maj MacLachlan and Capt Sparks won first for 154 Regt. Thank you and well done to all who took part. It is by far one of the most popular events in the training calendar, not only for the Regt but across the wider RLC.

Maj Davidson led a battlefield study to the Netherlands where the party studied the bold and ambitious plan to drop over 30,000 paratroopers up to 70 miles behind enemy lines to secure multiple bridges in the infamous Operation MARKET GARDEN. Whilst the focus was on command decisions at all levels, particular attention was paid to the implementation of the supply chain throughout the operation and how the implementation of good logistics can have a decisive effect on the battlefield.

The CO’s Sword Competition also continued with all sqns taking part in a rowing competition across the central belt. The teams consisted of all ranks and commitment contracts, and it was as simple as the furthest rowed in a certain period. 251 Squadron (Irvine) was the winner by a country - ‘nautical’mile earning it some points for the leader board! The overall winners will be announced in April 2023.

Recently the Regt has returned from Garelochhead Training Area. Despite the weather being traditionally Scottish, all trades exercised successfully in their capacity and gained some valuable training. Brig Seal paid the Regt a visit and despite the weather not playing ball, the Regt was able to greet the Brigadier with a warm Scottish welcome with accompanying banter.

There have also been a few changes in key personnel within the Regiment. A special mention must go to SSgt Inglis who has taken over as the SPSI of 221 Sqn in Glasgow. Not only has be brought a wealth of military knowledge and experience, but he is also the 2022 overall Drivers Champion of the Armed Forces. The Regt also welcome a new RSM, WO1 Maloney and looks forward to his experience and guidance over the next few years.

156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

Liverpool

CO: Lt Col T Steed • Adjt: Capt B Griffin • RSM: WO1 R Thomas

On returning from a ‘Soldier First’ focussed overseas training exercise in Croatia, 156 Regiment RLC jumped back into technical skills, conducting an LSS Class 32 upgrade course to maintain our soldiers’ trade ability. In November, the Regt began preparations for Remembrance Sunday, with representatives from each subunit marking the day in Wirral, Liverpool, Sefton, Southport, Lancaster and Manchester. The final few weekends of 2022 were spent ensuring our individuals met their annual Individual Training Requirement, before culminating in the Chalker Cup competition. Alongside this activity, Ptes McPartland and Sergeant finished as runners up in the RLC Orienteering Championship Female Team event, while 10 of our soldiers travelled to Norway to represent the Regt in Alpine and Nordic Skiing. In the New Year, the Regt delivered an M Qual course, qualifying 32 pax across 12 units to safely deliver battle lessons, ensuring quality training can continue to be delivered through 2023. The regimental male football team had a great start to the year with a 9-1 victory over 75 Engineer Regiment, while LCpl Dumbell was selected as captain for the Army Reserve Women’s football squad.

The Chalker Cup

The Chalker Cup was presented to 156 Regt by Baroness Chalker of Wallasey and has been the InterSquadron competition ever since and is awarded to the Sqn which performs best in a military skills competition, focussing on the core tenets of marksmanship, military and trade skills and physical ability. Prizes for the fittest soldier and best marksman are also awarded. This year was unique in Chalker Cup history, as 156 Regt’s partnered regular units, 10 QOGLR and 27 Regt RLC also entered teams. After a gruelling competition, witnessed by DComd 101 Op Sus Bde, it was 381 Sqn, 156 Regt that emerged the victors. That evening all visiting units and 156RLC personnel were hosted for a soldiers’ Christmas dinner at Bootle ARC.

Awards

This quarter Sgt Robinson, and LCpl Doddrell received their Volunteer Reserve Service Medals for ten years’ qualifying service in the Army Reserve; while Cpl Parsons received a clasp in recognition of 15 years. Capt Tony Sandle also formally received a CGS’ Commendation in recognition of his extraordinary work to support the UK COVID response and his engagement with the Veteran community.

Looking forward

The Regt remains focussed on mobilising personnel in support of Op INTERFLEX, providing training to Ukrainian volunteers. This will be supported by numerous trade and instructional qualification courses, ensuring the Regt’s personnel deploy in good order. Concurrently, the Regt is preparing for deployment on Ex IRON TITAN 23, developing the soldiers’ trade ability and driving skills to ensure a smooth integration with 10 QOGLR and 27 Regt through the 101 Op Sus