The Sustainer Spring 24

Sustainer THE

RLC

RLC

RLC

Corps Motto: We Sustain

Parade by Albert Elms

Slow March: Lion, Sword and Crown by Craig Bywater

Welcome to the spring 2024 edition of The Sustainer. This is the first of three editions this year and publishes eight weeks later than normal to adjust to the new frequency. The summer edition will publish in early September, so please can I have your submissions by 5 July.

Many of you will be aware that in the latter part of 2023, RHQ The RLC conducted an audience survey that looked into the uptake and value of its media and communications output - RLC Comms Refresh.

The survey was distributed to active RLC and Forming Corps Association members and serving RLC SP (Regular, Reserve and FTRS) using a combination of direct email, via the Downrep and Chain of Command, plus a final push using RLC social media. The total potential reach was 31.3K. There were 3,282 responses. 67% were Veterans, 21% Regular SP, 8% Reserve SP and 4% others. The representative sample was 10.5%, which is very good.

54% of respondents said they read The Sustainer, which is pleasing. Of the 46% who said they did not, the biggest reasons were accessibility to it (58%) and

EDITOR’S NOTE

awareness of it (22%). We print and distribute around 5,000 copies per edition and to address accessibility, since late 2018 a digital version has been available on the ISSUU flipbook app. We post links to it on the RLC and Army websites and on the RLC’s Facebook page. The RLC website also has an archive of digital editions on its News landing page. Please spread the word around your units, among your friends and colleagues and on your social media platforms.

Only 4% of this sample said they didn’t like it. The majority of those who read it like it (design and content) but around 25% of respondents who read it felt there was room for improvement in some areas. If you have a view on this please contact me, provide some specifics, and we will look at how any shortcomings can be addressed. I hope you enjoy this edition and I look forward to hearing from you.

8 Peter Shakespeare Email: Peter.Shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk

Contact: +44 (0) 7901 676309.

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

Editorial Staff

Editor: Peter Shakespeare

Editorial assistant: Anne Pullenkav

Email: anne.pullenkav@icloud.com

Graphic Design: David Blake

2024 copy deadlines for THE SUSTAINER:

Summer - 5 Jul 24, Winter - 4 Oct 24, Spring 25 - 4 Mar 25.

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

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

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: Cpl Nathan Tanuku, RLC Media - Ex LOGISTIC BOARDER

RLC Chefs help to mark NATO 75

By Sgt Rhys Pandeles, Battlegroup Kitchen Manager Op CABRIT 14

In a celebration marking NATO’s 75th anniversary, a group of chefs from OP CABRIT 14 embarked on a culinary adventure across Estonia.

With infectious energy, the chefs journeyed across the country, infusing their travels with music and camaraderie, reminding everyone of the joy found in exploration, good food and creating memories. From Parnu to Tartu, Voru, Saillimanne, Yovi, and Tallinn, they showcased their improvisational cooking and culinary expertise.

The culinary journey featured a diverse array of dishes, from canapes to salmon and caviar, freshly made pizzas, homemade sun-dried tomato bread, indulgent chocolate brownies improvised smash burgers and homemade smoked chicken wraps.

Guest and dignitaries were treated to a captivating culinary history lesson, tracing the evolution of cooking techniques from the pioneering days of Alexsis Benoit Soyer’s stove oven to the modern era of improvised cooking. The immersive experience provided insight into culinary innovations over time.

Attendees also had the opportunity to explore the OFCS kitchen, witnessing first-hand the tools and technologies that have shaped culinary landscapes throughout history.

The celebration not only honoured NATO’s longstanding commitment to global security but also showcased the diverse talents within its ranks. Our Chefs embodied the spirit of collaboration and excellence that defines NATO’s mission.

Four RLC Service Personnel are named winners at The Worshipful Company of Carmen’s Defence Awards. With the MGL and other members of the Corps in attendance, the winners were presented with their awards by the Colonel-in-Chief, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

Looking for a ew hallenge

We are ecruiting! Carmen’s Awards

The winners were, (left to right) Sgt Daniel Whalley (19 Tank Transporter Squadron (The Carmen’s), Cpl Michael BerefordHartwell (151 Regiment), Pte Ali Samuel (20 Transport Squadron (Soldier of the Year)) and Lt Luke Laine (1 Regiment (Carmen’s Sword of Honour)).

159 Regiment RLC - HAP support to Op INTERFLEX

The handling and processing (HAP) support for Op INTERFLEX is currently led by 159 Regiment. At a location in the West of England designated for the HAP operation, 159 Regt’s work is nicknamed ‘Project Amazon’ where the kit donated by partners from across Europe and beyond is sorted, categorised and stacked. Troops often have no ability to predict what might be coming next, so must rely on their ingenuity and improvisational skills to make sure every item gets to where it needs to quickly and efficiently.

The slickness and speed of the operation has been remarked upon independently by many highprofile visitors to the HAP, including Comd 102 OSB. The integration of reservists from across 102 OSB and the wider Army into this system has been seamless, and there are no signs of friction between the services, all three of which are involved in the operation. The HAP task has developed into somewhat of a flagship operation for the Army Reserve, with reservists making up 47% of the HAP workforce. Driving this exceptional performance, no doubt, is the visible pride that all personnel have for their contribution to the operation. Despite the relatively spartan facilities, the sense that this is ‘for real’ has kept morale high, and ensured procedures are followed diligently. On the second anniversary of the start of the war, a cadre of Ukrainian officers visited their men, and made an address to

the British personnel stationed in support of the HAP. According to visiting 159 Regt chaplain Padre Justin Parker, “there was no-one without a lump in their throat by the end of the Ukrainian Colonel’s speech. Still, there was little time to reflect. Deliveries were still coming in, and there was a new intake coming in the next day. The assembled personnel jumped back into the action with enthusiasm; the Ukrainians couldn’t wait a day, so neither would they.”

RLC Fly Fishing

RLC Fly Fishing is holding its annual competition at Grafham Water between 27 and 31 May 24.

Events include Top Rod, Top Novice, Best Boat Pair and Heaviest Bag. The competition is open to all ranks from the Regular and Reserve regardless of ability. You can enter via the QR code.

For further information contact: SSgt Vishan Gurung Skype: +443001581898 Email: Vishan.gurung350@mod.gov.uk

The King’s New Year’s Honours List

The Royal Logistic Corps congratulates the following officers, warrant officers, senior non-commissioned officers and soldiers on their awards and commendations in New Year Honours List 2024 Military Division.

CBE

Colonel L M Giles

MBE

Captain G A L Clarke

Major P A Harrison VR Private E C Okenyi

Chief of the General Staff Commendation

Staff Sergeant J Bowes

Warrant Officer Class 1 J F Detoeuf

Major S J Falinski

Captain A D Hobson

Lieutenant L R Laine

Major D S Matthews

Major J P Oxley

Major M F R Pomfrett

Major J S Revell

Captain T Sheppard

Major H E H Travis

Warrant Officer Class 2 S M Tyler

Warrant Officer Class 2 M R Watkins

Commander Field Army Commendation

Warrant Officer Class 2

E A K Agblekey

Acting Warrant Officer Class 1

D J Constantine

The Field Army Logistic Support

Clothing Team

Staff Sergeant P Gurung QOGLR

Sergeant G Owusu-Ansah

Major D S Rumney

Captain A J Turner

Commander SJC(UK) Commendation

Major S J Middleton

Commander SJC(UK) Op Golden Orb Commendation

Sergeant A J Moorcroft

8 The HAP hangar kit issue stations

‘‘It has been a career highlight and a tremendous privilege to be your Corps Colonel through what has been an interesting epoch for our Corps

A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE

This is the final Sustainer article I write as Corps Colonel, in what has been an interesting period that has seen a series of unexpected global events.When I assumed the role, the pressing issue was understanding and delivering the future soldier programme as part of the Integrated Review and what this meant for The RLC. Of course, for our family the significant headline was the loss 3 Regiment RLC in addition to what initially felt like reduced opportunities for some trade groups and positive opportunities for others.

I recall one of the first events I attended back in January 2022 was to present at the annual WO1s’ Convention, a tough gig for a newly appointed Corps Colonel. I was challenged regarding the Future Soldier change programme and had we been cut too lean? Little did we know that within two weeks Russia would invade Ukraine which would positively change how Defence and the Army looked at logistics and cause us to revisit some of the assumptions made in Future Soldier. The Corps has been tirelessly committed to supporting NATO since then and many lessons have been identified and some old ones (stockpiling, transport, and logistic readiness) have been recycled. Many of you have contributed directly and indirectly to operations supporting the Eastern Flank in a way that was unexpected, two years ago.

Away from NATO, the Corps has been continuously committed to supporting other Defence operations, whether that is crisis response in Sudan, Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief response operations in Turkey or most recently air drop operations in the Levant. It is clear, that in addition to preparing and training for warfighting operations, the Corps is more committed to operations now than ever before.

The past couple of years has

The Colonel RLC

been marked with a number of other key events. The death of our beloved late Queen Elizabeth II and the state ceremonial events which the Corps was committed to at no notice, whether participating in state ceremonial events or Real Life Logistic Support, were closely followed by the spectacular coronation of King Charles III at which I was immensely proud to lead The RLC contingent on parade. This was the second state ceremonial event within 12 months enabled by nearly 1,000 RLC soldiers. We also formally celebrated moving into our new home in Winchester with the event known as RLC 30. It was a career highlight for me to see multigenerational RLC Officers and Soldiers, Army Cadets, Veterans, Regulars and Reservists all stood shoulder to shoulder, Private to General on parade in front of our Colonel in Chief. We truly cemented our place in history.

There have been so many highlights over my tenure it is impossible to list them all, but when meeting Junior Soldiers at Harrogate, Pirbright and Officer Cadets at RMAS, it is always a huge privilege to see the energy and commitment that the next generation will bring to the Corps family. At the other end of the spectrum spending time, either in my informal visits or the annual Founder’s Day Parade, with our wonderful Chelsea pensioners who have given a life of service, has been a deeply humbling experience and reminds me that we must remain connected as an extended family. It has been a career highlight and a tremendous privilege to be your Corps Colonel through what has been an interesting epoch for our Corps. I would like to formally thank you and record my gratitude for your loyalty, tenacity, and selfless commitment to the service of our Corps, the Army and the defence and security our country.

We Sustain.

Colonel P A Allen ADC

On Wednesday 24 January, four Service Personnel were admitted to the Worshipful Company of Carmen, the London Livery company with transport and logistics links and which is proud of its links with The RLC.

The Services have initiated sponsorship of specially selected logisticians, two from each Service, to be admitted as Associate Freemen into the Carmen and Gloved at a special ceremony. Although the selected RN individuals were unable to attend the ceremony held at Carmen’s Hall, RLC and RAF personnel were inducted into the Company in the presence of the three senior Service logisticians.

8 L to R: Acting Master, Mr Leon Daniels, the MGL Maj Gen (Retd) Simon Hutchings OBE, Lt Rohit Pun RLC (DST Leconfield), Sgt Daniel McCarroll RLC (Tpt Branch, Andover), VAdm Andy Kyte CB, Sgt Daniel Robinson RAF (DMTS Brize Norton) and Flt Lt Matthew LePut RAF (RAF Wittering), AVM Richard Pratley

The Carmen induct military logisticians

Thirty-one members of the Commando Logistic Regiment, who have died in service with the Regt over the last fifty years, were honoured, on 11 Dec 23 in a dedication ceremony at the Royal Marines Memorial Garden, situated at the former RM Barracks, Eastney.

The RLC and members of its Forming Corps, who were among those being remembered, were represented in the Honour Guard made up of Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Army personnel.

CO 159 Regiment - with a small team from 123 (Telford) Squadron - visited Babcock at MOD Donnington, to scope building a mutually beneficial relationship as part of the RLC Foundation.

There are obvious geographical as well as personal links; The Honorary Colonel of 159 Regiment (Brig Alistair Deas) is the Director Training Defence Land for Babcock International Group and 123’s OC (Maj Roger Hill-Harding) a Supply Chain Manager at the Telford DSG site.

After an initial briefing, Brig Deas gave an enthralling insight into how a premier Defence Contractor provides support to the Field Army. The team was fascinated at how Babcock engineers are rehabilitating the Army’s fleet of armoured vehicles, and how their personnel have overcome the challenges of integrating MJDI into their supply chain.

Building upon the success of last year’s event, Ex WAGON CHALLENGE 24 will take place at Sledmere House, Home of the Wolds Wagoner, on 19 May 24.

Teams from across the Corps will take part in activities replicating the role of a World War One Wagoner including driving a horse drawn wagon, leading a horse around the arena, and loading a horse drawn rully. There is also a Tug of War contest! All RLC units are encouraged to enter a team, further information is available at the QR code.

‘‘We were honoured to be able to host our Colonel in Chief, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal at the Defence EOD, Munitions & Search Training Regiment (DEMS), Bicester

The initial four months of 2024 have already proven to be fast paced for our people as they prepare and deploy across Europe this spring.

Following successful coaching and training sessions, plus competition during Ex NORDIC KNEES STRETCH and Ex ALPINE KNEES BEND in December 2023, the Corps successfully deployed a plethora of teams from our units to compete at the Divisional, Army and InterServices skiing Championships across the months of January and February in Ruhpolding. A monumental effort from 17 Port & Maritime Regiment saw the Regt make a clean sweep across all disciplines, winning the SAS Cup and being crowned the Inter-Unit Nordic Ski team of 2024. 6 Regiment and 9 Regiment also covered themselves in glory with finishing 5th and 7th respectively. Thank you to all the coaching staff, administration teams and competitors.Your hard work, dedication, determination, and selfless commitment has yet again flown the Corps’ and your regimental flags high, well done.

The first of my visits this year was in January with the Colonel RLC. We had a fantastic opportunity to visit our officers, soldiers, and their families who are permanently based in British Army Training Unit Suffield (BATUS), Canada. The team continues to safeguard the infrastructure and uphold the training resource to ensure we have an overseas training estate which can deliver arduous and realistic training for low level or Battle Group size exercises. The key message from Commander BATUS, Lt Col P Eaton RLC is: “BATUS is firmly open for business.” A truly insightful visit, and the experience of being exposed to minus 40 Celsius will never be forgotten. Other visits included, Naval Command Headquarters, a Gallantry awards

FROM THE RANKS

dinner night at 29 Regiment, capability visits to 11 and 27 Regiment and a visit to 152 (North Irish) Regiment and 321 EOD & Search Squadron. All were superb occasions, which gave me the opportunity to engage with soldiers to gain understanding of their professional outputs. Thank you for inviting me and giving up your time to host me, it really is appreciated.

Building upon the success stories of last year’s Warrant Officer Class One convention and Junior NonCommissioned Officers development day; we planned and delivered both events again in February. I must give a shout out to Regimental Sergeant Majors Richie Bould and Sammy Hogan-Henry and their teams. It was because of their support and application, that both events were delivered to a high standard, and full of rich content for those who attended. We were honoured to be able to host our Colonel in Chief, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal at the Defence EOD, Munitions & Search Training Regiment (DEMS), Bicester. The officers and soldiers delivered truly magnificent presentations and capability stands displaying just how important and developed the DEMS community is within our organisation. I would like to finish off, by firstly, congratulating all of our Staff Sergeants from across our sixteen trade groups who selected for promotion to Warrant Officer Class Two. Every promotion for a soldier is special, but I believe this one to be extra special when it is rewarded with a Royal Warrant from the King. An incredible achievement, well done. Secondly, I would like to warmly welcome our newest soldiers to the Corps family.You all have bright futures ahead, please maximise and take every opportunity which presents itself.

WO1 S A Muir Corps Sergeant Major RLC

IoH Membership Offer for Military Caterers

The professional body for managers and aspiring managers working and studying in the hospitality, leisure and tourism industry, the Institute of Hospitality (IoH) is offering reduced membership fees for serving Armed Forces personnel (Regular and Reservist) and MOD civilian personnel.

The primary purpose of the Institute is to promote professionalism through lifelong learning. This is achieved through engagement with hospitality educators around the world, through its knowledge library resources and through a programme of professional development events.

Membership benefits include webinars, mentoring, a knowledge centre, employment law advice and the IoH magazine. Membership fees for MOD SP (Affiliate Year 1 –entry level for all new members) start at £25.00 p.a. Normal price

Pte Elliot, attached to the Light Dragoons and Pte Van der Vaart, attached to 26 Regiment RA are the latest winners of the Mackenzie Award, named after Wally Mackenzie, formerly of the Army Catering Corps.

The award is granted every year to a British Army Chef for outstanding achievements, either in or out of the kitchen and both winners have shown clear evidence of selfless commitment, leading by example, and have undertaken extra-curricular activities. Qualities that were immortalised by the late Wally MacKenzie.

An extract from Pte Elliott’s 2022 citation reads: “Pte Elliott boxed with her unit, she fed the former Prime Minister Liz Truss and the current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on Op INTERFLEX. She also won

£190.00. The IoH is also offering discounted membership for Veterans. Scan the QR code for more information.

Exemplary RLC Chefs Recognised with Mackenzie Award

gold in a catering competition and assisted the CPD of two Private Chefs with their functional skills”.

An extract from Pte Van Der Vaart’s 2023 citation reads: “Pte Van der Vaart embodies exceptional leadership qualities, setting a compelling example in every aspect. He demonstrates outstanding fitness within the Regiment and leverages his abilities to inspire others to excel in their professional and personal growth. Pte Van der Vaart has completed his AAPTI course and is currently training for his All-Arms Commando Course. He volunteers at his local church helping with services and the local community.”

The Head of Trade WO1 (SSM) Martin Foulds says: “With passion, dedication and the desire to ‘win’ and get better each day, LCpl Olivia Elliott and Pte Andrew Van der Vaart both embody the essence of what it is to be a RLC Chef. I’m proud of their efforts and proud to serve alongside them.”

162 Regt welcomes its new Honorary Colonel

Colonel Cameron Macnish has been appointed Regimental Honorary Colonel of 162 Regiment RLC. Born and bred in Australia, Col Macnish was commissioned into the Australian Army (Royal Australian Corps of Transport) in 1982.

After a few postings in Sydney, in 1984 he was lucky enough to be selected for Ex LONG LOOK and was attached to 54 Engineer Support and Ambulance Squadron RCT in West Germany, during Exercise LIONHEART. He enjoyed this so much he transferred to the British Army (RCT) in 1986. Having completed a number of operational tours, he was appointed CO of 152 (Ulster) Transport Regiment from 2004 – 07. He left the Army in 2010 and is now Head of Operations at Team Leidos. In January 2024, His Majesty the King appointed him Honorary Colonel 162 Regiment RLC for three years, where he looks forward to meeting as many of the Regiment’s soldiers and officers as possible.

YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL

OFFICER WING 2024

RLC Officers’ Career Management Team

Lt Cols: Lt Col Tim Beck

Ms Lindsey Cooke

LE Offrs: Lt Col Jason Lowe Mrs Windingoudi Ouedraogo

Res Offrs: Maj Mark Orr

Snr Majs: Maj Steph Coles

Mr Grahame Macdonald

Mrs Jessie (Shona) Carstairs

Jnr Majs: Gapped Gapped

Capts: Maj Becky Ritchie

Lts: Ms Leigh Motherwell

Mr Paul Kent

Mrs Anne Marie Friel

A Career Manager’s View - By Maj Becky Ritchie

SO2C RLC Offrs Wing, CSS

The commencement of my tenure as the OF2s Career Manager at APC has been both demanding and enriching. Despite the forewarning of the challenges associated with starting in August, I embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly. Following the completion of ICSC(l), I relocated my family to Newcastle and promptly immersed myself in my responsibilities at APC. Following a successful handover/takeover (HOTO), I seamlessly transitioned into the Senior Captains Regimental Duty (SCRD) grading board. Collaborating with the exceptional team at APC has been a privilege, and I wish to provide you with an overview of our recent activities, forthcoming initiatives in the upcoming year, and share some valuable insights.

APC Update

Career Management Portal (CMP). Career Management is becoming increasingly digitalised. The CM Portal is managed by APC making it agile. This means we can continuously improve and update the system to be better for the users and us. The feedback we get is important for this betterment, so if you feel there is a way that CMP could change progress, do not hesitate to send in your ideas. The most recent update that effects users allows you to complete PPPs for separate boards concurrently.

APC organisational design review. The APC is currently undergoing an organisational design review of Army Career Management, APC legislative output delivery and the provision of Kentigern House enabling support services. The review is designed to ensure the benefits of digitisation and wider army transformation are exploited and reflected in the APC’s future structure. The review may result in new organisational structures and amendments of job specifications for those roles within APC, to reflect future capability requirements.

RLC Offr CM Update

Welcomes and farewells. We have welcomed in a new LE Career Manager and former 2IC at 13 AA Sp Regt RLC, Lt Col Jason Lowe. He has taken hold of the LE desk and is excited to get round and meet people on the upcoming unit visits. He also has a new team member, Ms Windingoudi Ouedraogo. Maj Sue Mulhern has now departed the RLC Officer Wing and the Army

after serving 24 years Regular service. Maj Steph Coles has stepped in to fill this position. We are hoping for a new member to join us to take over Jnr Majs Career Management on the next Gd2 Board, but for now it is gapped and being covered by Maj Steph Coles.

Annual report finalisation. Finalising ARs is recognised within APC as one of the single most timeconsuming activities that is undertaken. Balancing the available workforce resource with the requirement to produce ‘Board Safe’ reports demands a reduction in the number of ARs that are required to be returned for amendment and the subsequent re-checking prior to finalisation. To this end, APC will shortly issue revised direction to the MS Reps and Chains of Command to proactively reduce the volume of ‘Board Unsafe’ ARs being submitted to the APC for finalisation.

Regimental Jobs Fair. On 17 Apr 24 the RLC Officers’ Wing hosted a Regimental Jobs Fair. Held on Teams, it is available to those eligible for the appointments it will focus on. It was recorded and then placed on SharePoint for ease of access to those who could not attend. It highlighted roles that will be available in 2025/2026 as well as provided an understanding of the activities our regiments will be conducting during that period. It will focus on SCRD, Sub-Unit Command, Regt’l 2IC, QM(T) and QM.

Unit visits. Unit visits will resume this year following the COVID-19 hiatus. We anticipate the opportunity to visit your units, engaging in face-to-face interactions with many of you. Additional details regarding dates and locations will be provided in due course. Our current planning sees us visiting to the north, south and southwest. We hope to see you there.

SCRD. The SCRD board now aligns roles and officers that are available during April to March the following year. This ensures it coincides better with other boarding activity. SCRD grading is held in October. Those who cross the quality line (30) will receive a Calling Notice for the SCRD PPP process and the dates of the Appointing Board. All SCRD appointments will become available to view and apply for from BeL results day. This enables one PPP to be completed and hopefully forgoes the requirement to complete OOC SCRD choices, making it fairer for everyone.

Getting the message across

Understanding your FAD. Understanding the timing of your FAD is crucial to facilitate future career opportunities. You can then understand what boards you will be aligned to in the future and can start to look at possible jobs that will be on that board. MS Web has the most up to date version of the CM Calendar. This has all MS4, MS5 and Corps boarding activity on it. Including when results will be released.

Sweep-up Board. Going through to a Sweep-up Board does not indicate that you are not competitive; rather, it can result from various factors. These include not providing enough options for the board’s consideration, potential confusion arising from the choices presented, appointments being pulled, misalignment between your Career Profile Sheet (CPS) and your preferences, or the board’s prioritisation of appointments. Presently, challenges exist in filling positions marked with ‘Should’ or ‘Could’ priorities. If a significant portion of your options falls under these categories, securing a role may pose additional challenges. The competitive landscape is intense, with supply and demand challenges leading to an expanded pool of candidates resulting in strengthening everyone’s KSE-B. It is essential to view a Sweep-up Board positively, as it can open doors previously unavailable and offer unthought of opportunities.

Did you know?

• You can receive an AR in the same reporting year as a Short Tour or Duty Period (minimum 5½ months for OCE, 6 months for routine), but you must have the correct amount of time in post.

• When selecting Non-Preferred (NP) option on CMP you should note that this is classed as a Directed Posting if you are selected for the role. Use this option wisely, if you put it on your PPP you’re still an option for the board even if directed.

• Your career is in your hands - literally. With the CMP you can now search for roles, complete a PPP all from your mobile phone through the Defence Gateway. However, I would strongly suggest writing it out first and saving it! Write it, re-read it, revisit it and re-write it.

There are 17,000+ Unclaimed Armed Forces Pensions

The Forces Pension Society says its ongoing campaign to assist Veterans to claim their pension rights is gathering momentum.

This is partly a result of the publication of the latest AFPS Annual Report (July 2023) showing the number of unclaimed deferred pension benefits grew further in 2022/3, reaching more than 17,100

The Society also reports added momentum was provided by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, announcing in its recent Veterans’ Strategy update that: “The OVA is working with the MOD and the Forces Pension Society to reunite more veterans with unclaimed, deferred pension benefits.”

The key issues of this growing concern are:

• Anyone serving after April 1975 now aged 60 or over could have an Armed Forces pension if they served for two years or more.

• The pension is not paid automatically – Veterans must apply to Veterans UK using AFPS Form 8 or call 0800 085 3600 for information.

• Between June 2020 and May 2022, over 4,000 preserved Armed Forces pensions went unclaimed.

Forces Pension Society CEO, Maj Gen Neil Marshall said:

“These unclaimed pensions, in many cases, represent quite substantial sums of money. And the situation has not improved, with the number of unclaimed pensions rising. We applaud the engagement of the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, and we also urge anyone who may know a Veteran who has not yet claimed a pension to visit the Veterans’ Gateway website without delay. For our part, the Society will maintain its focus on this issue until we see more of these pensions in the hands of those who earned them.”

The Royal Logistic Corps Association and Forming Corps Associations Membership

If you are keen to enhance your network, join a group of like-minded professionals who share a common purpose, or just catch-up with lost friends and acquaintances, why not join The RLC Association or one of The RLC’s Forming Corps Associations? If interested, please contact the Veterans, Families and Civil Engagement Officer (VFCEO) - Victoria Parkes at:

Email - VFCEO@rhqtherlc.org.uk Telephone - 01962 887785

Alternatively, you can download the Membership Registration Form from the RLC website.

https://www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk/who-we-are/the-rlc-association/

Since 1976 the Exchange Programme ‘LONG LOOK’ has offered exchanges with both the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces, and more recently with the Canadian Army. Lt Estridge from 80 Postal and Courier Squadron (29 Regt RLC) was successful in his application and selected for the September to December 2023 exchange with the Australian Army, attached to 9th Force Support Battalion based out of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) base Amberley near Brisbane.

After a week of introductions and familiarisations to the Australian Army, he deployed onto a weeklong road move with elements of 26th Transport Squadron. The task entailed driving up to Gladstone from Brisbane, loading the trucks with US Army equipment ranging from vehicles and trailers to miscellaneous items and driving it down to Bandiana before repeating the process. The week Lt Estridge was attached to the packet saw him complete one full run, driving 4,000km (2,500 miles) in that period.

After a weekend to recuperate from the consumption of service station and truck stop food, he deployed again, this time on Exercise OVERLAND with 8th Petroleum (Pet) Platoon to Cowley Beach Training Area in Far North Queensland. As a stark reminder of the size of Australia, it was 2½-day drive covering a distance of 1,600km (1,000 miles) simply to get to the training area, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn in the process and moving to the tropical northeastern coast.

Ex OVERLAND is the ‘Nautical Petro’s’ annual exercise for troops from 8th and 9th Petroleum Platoons to qualify their Pet Ops and exercise their full capability. 8th Platoon has an inland focus, while 9th Platoon focuses on the marine environment. When operating

Taking a long look down under

together their capability covers the movement of fuel from ship to land and then, onward distribution inland without support from fixed infrastructure. On the ground, this involves using an LCM-8 landing craft to deliver fuel to the beach storage area from an offshore fuel vessel, pump missions inland via the Inland Pipe Distribution System to deliver fuel into an inland Bulk Fuel Installation and finally into vehicles. Whilst not a Pet Op himself, Lt Estridge gained valuable insight to what is a key RLC trade,

through observing the procedures of the Pet Ops during the exercise.

Being one of the two Army units based on the largest RAAF base in Australia, he also took the opportunity to see as much RAAF equipment as possible: the highlight being an airside tour inside and around their C-17s and KC-30A tankers as they were prepping for a sortie. In addition to this, he got to drive in the Fire Section’s firefighting vehicles and control the water cannons before visiting the Aeromedical Evacuation Sqn’s full VR training suite. Lt Estridge also had the opportunity to train and qualify on the M4 rifle and H&K USP (pistol) used by Australian Special Operations Command (SOCOMD).

To wrap up his busy three months in Australia, his final few weeks saw him bouncing from dinner night to function, fostering and maintaining international relations with his hosts during their ‘silly season’. The Long Look exchange is a unique opportunity to embed within a foreign unit and learn from their operating procedures, as well as share British methods, promoting interoperability, with the bonus of being abroad and immersed in a different culture.

8 Loading a US Army tanker onto an Australian equipment transporter in Brisbane

8 Australian Pet Ops use landing craft to bring fuel ashore

8 Lt Estridge fostering international relations with the Australian Army

By Jon Harris and Sean Rogers BMfS, Movements Management

Defence Support needs to leverage data and technology to increase platform and equipment availability, continue to develop environmental, sustainable and cost-effective logistics and maintain a culture of interoperability that places NATO at the heart of Defence.

BMfS is first and foremost, a business change programme encompassing Engineering and Logistic Support with Process modernisation, IT modernisation and a Business Modernisation as the mechanisms to deliver the changes required.

BMfS seeks to Modernise Defence from legacy processes to align with leading practice across both the commercial support sector and with Allies. This in turn allows for future Defence business processes to be underpinned by Commercial Off the Shelf (COTS), cloud-enabled, evergreen information systems, integrated with the Defence Digital Backbone, cyber-secure and accessible globally. The introduction of Robotic Process Automation and AI, where appropriate, will remove the need for human intervention in non-value adding tasks and the implementation of a simple, intuitive interface will reduce the need for specialist training, minimise instances of human error and improve the user experience.

Capability will be delivered through Enterprise-Wide Support Services (EWSS) and Enabling Services. These are: Engineering Through Life Support (ETLS), Inventory Management (IM), Movements Management (MM) and Item Visibility. Our enabling

What is Business Modernisation for Support (BMfS)?

services aim to provide digital and data technologies to support business transformation. These are - Common User Platform (CUP) –Providing a common look and feel, single sign on, automated processes, business process orchestration, where users can access lightweight apps.

Operational Data ServicesMaster data, specialist application licences, Automated Programme Interface (API) integration and Systems integration. Decision Support delivered with Data Exploitation services will provide better, more accurate data analytics, reporting, metrics and modelling providing a single source of the truth.

Management is a pan-Defence capability that will enable users to request, plan, task, control, execute and track the movement of personnel, materiel and equipment on multiple journeys using various modes of transport. This will be achieved by transforming the current capability into a set of secure, intuitive, and easily accessible services, which support standardised industry best practice.

Scalable, upgradable and easy to learn, the solution must be usable in all global workplace settings and be effective, regardless of network capability. Data generated by the solution must be coherent, accessible and available to support Operations, Readiness and Training.

The end solution will remove several swivel chair interfaces, ad-hoc tools and paper-based processes as well as replacing core legacy applications. Additionally, it will provide seamless integration with, our Allies, Coalition Partners, Other Government Departments, and Industry.

BMfS will enable three key deliverables under Movements Management.

Defence Air Passenger Services System (DAPSS)

The Defence Air Passenger Services System (DAPSS) capability will provide a flight scheduling, reservation processing, and aircraft despatch capability to manage air passengers and their baggage to ensure the sustainable, safe and efficient operation of the Air Transport Force and MOD passenger charter aircraft worldwide.

The DAPSS Project has procured and will implement a Commercial Off the Shelf (COTS) Air Passenger Information System to modernise the current system expected by March 25. Additional functionality will be provided, specifically to include Load Control function and modern peripherals such as passport readers, Boarding Card and Bag Tag printers. DAPSS will meet regulatory requirements to seamlessly integrate Advanced Passenger Information to UK Border Force.

The system and supporting peripherals will be deployed to the nine Main Operating Bases both at home and overseas and will also be used in any global location on a MOD Cloud connected MODNet device.

The team have had proactive engagement from The RLC and RAF movements community who were invited to support the procurement process, providing valuable insights when setting the requirements and evaluating the tender bids. The competition has been successfully concluded and we are pleased to announce that Unisys have been selected with their solution for DAPSS, introducing a number of IT and process improvements. DE&S Digital, with support from the BMfS Programme, will now start working with our Industry Partner Unisys to transition from the current system over to AirCore 7.0. We are planning multiple virtual and Face 2 Face roadshows in 2024, dates to be released shortly.

Defence Freight Movements Service (DFMS)

An affordable pan-Defence Freight Movement capability, providing a secure, intuitive, and easily accessible service to plan, task, control and execute the movement of Equipment and Materiel through the Defence Support Chain. Scalable, upgradeable, and easy to learn, the DFMS must be usable in all global workplace settings and be effective regardless of network connectivity. Data generated by the DFMS must be standardised, coherent, available and support full interoperability with Industry, Partners Across Government, and Coalition Forces in support of true End 2 End Movement Capability and to support Operations, Readiness and Training.

The DFMS Project seeks to procure and implement a COTS product, covering the components within the overall MM capability, which are: Movement Requisition, Transport Management, Yard Management, Ports Management, Global Trade Management, Consignment Visibility and Global Network Management

Progressive releases of these components will allow several core legacy applications to be replaced and seamless integration established to support Operations, Readiness and Training.

The project team has been hard at work capturing User and System requirements with engagement from Logistics professionals in the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, UKStratCom and Defence Munitions, to ensure DFMS meets the current and future demands of the Front-Line Commands. The project is almost ready to progress to PQQ with the ITN evaluations to follow later in 2024. DFMS is expected to achieve Full Operating Capacity in 2028.

Logistic Functional Area Services (LogFAS)

Movements Management is to manage the delivery of technical and user enhancements to enable more effective LogFAS use by the Front-Line Commands (FLCs) and enhance interoperability with NATO and Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) nations. It must also manage the transition from LogFAS to the replacement Enablement Support Services (ESS) programme which is planned to achieve Full Operational Capability (FOC) in 2028.

What’s next?

We hope this article has given you an insight into what the BMfS programme is delivering over the next few years and has helped increase your awareness of how these new technologies will help you in your current and future roles. This is a really exciting time in Defence Logistics and Support and as these new capabilities are developed, we will be publishing more information to keep you informed as well as getting you directly involved with the changes through our continued user engagement to bring you along on the Business Modernisation for Support journey.

Defence School of Logistics and Administration

Commandant

Gp Capt G Williams RAF

Food Services Training wing (FSTW) Worthy Down CO – Cdr Frances Coles-Hendry RN

Apprentices Bake Off – Cpl Dunn

Apprenticeship week saw a British Army style Bake Off hosted by the Food Service Training Wing.

Nine teams of two apprentices from across Southeast and Southwest Apprenticeship Ambassador Networks were joined by one British Army team in the third annual competition.The Army team comprised of driver apprentice Pte Amika Joseph of 1 Medical Regiment, Tidworth, and apprentice Tpr Akeem Woods of the Kings Royal Hussars, also based in Tidworth. Both have been friends since childhood, growing up in Saint Vincent before joining the British Army in 2021.

With strict timeline limits in the crowded kitchen, all 20 apprentices were tasked to produce two bakes each.The first was of their choosing, provided it referenced the ‘Life Skills’ theme of the 2024 National Apprenticeship week, while the second was a tray of Chelsea buns, as baked by RLC Chef apprentices during their final assessment. Given the complicated method, this proved perfect test of skills that the trainees had developed within their varied apprenticeships.

The bakers were closely monitored by Cpl Jaden Dunn, who was supervising the kitchen. Cpl Dunn is from Dudley and did his Army Chef apprenticeship 14 years ago, which has led to a varied and exciting career. In Cpl Dunn’s words:“Apprenticeships give people a lot more opportunity to improve their knowledge and lead on to major qualifications which is second to none.”

Pte Amika Joseph believes the best thing about

apprenticeship is that you get to be involved with civilian organisation so if you decide to leave the Army, you will have qualifications that will help you to get a job in civilian life.Tpr Akeem Woods believes that learning a whole new trade whilst earning at the same time is refreshing and rewarding which is ideal for apprentices.

The Army is the number one apprenticeship provider in the country and has been for the past three years. It was important during National Apprenticeship Week that we interacted with our civil sector partners – we’re devoted to apprenticeships and keen to show that 95% of soldiers who join The RLC get offered the chance to receive a trade related apprenticeship.

The Bake Off is brilliant – it’s great to have so many apprentices from so many places, because everyone’s apprenticeships stories are a little bit different. Doing apprenticeship in the Army is first and foremost about being a soldier, there are certain skills that we learn – ways

of behaviour and doing things that mean we’re actually very good at problem solving. Lastly, we’re just lucky that we work in an organisation with so many people driven to perform at their best.

Logistics Specialist Training Wing HQ – CO – Wg Cdr

Samantha M Smy MA RAF

LSTW HQ

The Logistics Specialist Training Wing comprises three training delivery squadrons, based at Worthy Down, Marchwood as well as Brize Norton and continues to deliver a wide range of logistics training outputs. On 12 Feb 24 the Wing welcomed a new Commanding Officer, as Wg Cdr Samantha Alexander MA MSc RAF handed over Command to Wg Cdr Samantha M Smy MA RAF.

73 Squadron

The Vehicle Support Specialist (VSS) training team has streamlined training delivery of the VSS Class 3 course with a full review and update of material presentations.The new material is interactive and engaging, aiming to provide students with a more hands-on learning experience.The team has also implemented more comprehensive assessments to better evaluate the students’ knowledge and proficiency. Additionally, the course will now be delivered on location in Ashchurch at the Stored Equipment Fleet UK (SEF UK), providing students with an immersive learning experience.“We believe that the changes we have made will significantly improve the training experience for the students, keeping them engaged and eager to learn,” said Cpl James Dodds, JNCO,VSS training team.“We are excited to have the opportunity to offer this training at SEF UK, which allows the students to learn the theory side then move straight onto the practical elements due to the vehicles and CES equipment available to us at SEF UK,” added Cpl Thomas Harwood JNCO,VSS training team.

Defence Petroleum and Specialist Training Squadron (DPSTS)

In addition to a busy schedule delivering Petroleum Operator, Dangerous Goods as well as Defence Tailoring and Equipment repair courses, DPSTS found time to plan the charity event ‘12 Hour Climb for Climbers Against Cancer’. On 23 Jan 24 Sgt Mitchelmore and Maj Selman

8 DPSTS’ Climb for Climbers Against Cancer raised £1,115 for the charity

delivered and participated in a 12 hour climb to raise money for Climbers Against Cancer.The aim of the event was to complete laps on the Worthy Down climbing wall, attempting to climb the height of Mount Everest (8,849m). Members of DPSTS, 73 Sqn and other Worthy Down permanent staff and trainees also joined in to support the event. Sgt Mitchelmore recalls:“The day started off well with 2,000m climbed in the first 1hr and 30mins.With only four climbers on the wall for most of the morning the task felt unachievable, however a surge of climbers over lunchtime and into the early evening meant that the summit of Mount Everest was achieved by 1600hrs and 10,200m had been reached by 1700hrs. Mission accomplished, however still another four hours to go! At 2100hrs when bodies were tired and mental resilience had been pushed to its absolute limits, a total of 1,571 laps of the wall had been climbed; this equated to an overall ascent of 14,139m (Mount Everest on top of Mont Blanc) and an overall sum raised of £1,115. As well as benefitting the charity, the climb enabled organisers to promote Worthy Down Climbing Club and showcase sport climbing within the Armed Forces.” Climbers were pushed to their limits with the event providing them with a sense of achievement for getting up the wall, even if it was just once – every lap helped! Personnel who took part discovered that their endurance was far greater than they knew. Fatigue over the next few days was exceeded by the sense of achievement.

Defence Movements Training Squadron (DMTS)

DMTS welcomed the Director Land Warfare (DLW), Maj Gen Barry CBE, who visited Caerwent Training Area to observe the Movement Controller Class 1 and 3 courses conducting the BCS phase of the course on EX DRAGON WHEEL.The week-long exercise assesses trainees in managing a Movement Control detachment in field conditions;

8 The VSS Class 3 course training in the SEF UK hangers

alongside enabling the Future Soldier vision, HWF26 and the Land Training System.The Army Delivery team wished to highlight how trade and tactical elements were integrated with each other and how they meet the three challenges of DLW's intent: Protection of the license to operate, filling the combined arms gap, and transforming at the pace of relevance.This iteration of the exercise was a perfect opportunity to showcase its evolution since its creation on the sport fields of RAF Brize Norton in 2016. It was the first time that ammunition and pyrotechnics had been used to enhance the realism of the operating environment for the trainees.There was also a trial of communications equipment delivered by DXC Technology who provided Starlink Wi-Fi, ACII laptops and TeamSpeak. After a tour of the area to see where the digging-in and tactical activities were taking place, DLW received briefings from syndicates on the current operational situation.This also provided an opportunity for him to interact with the trainees directly and gauge their understanding of the role they fulfil within the LTS.The visit culminated in an opportunity to observe a final attack where the sections had patrolled to a suspected enemy location and conducted necessary CPERS drills, they then came under enemy attack while extracting that CPERS and sustained a casualty resulting in a CASEVAC.

Supply Training Wing - CO Lt Col Nick Homer MBE RLC Rolling off a busy period leading up to the well-earned festive break, the Supply Training Wing has been forging the pipeline for the 24/25 training year that begins in April, whilst still delivering a raft of G4 courses across each of our five Divisions.

With a vast amount of churn in the Quartermaster’s Division, they bid farewell and good luck to three members of the team and with three new instructors inbound shorty coupled with a drive to implement Land Warfare Centre’s new Land Training System; this will vastly change how we deliver in the near future.

As ever there have been small windows of opportunity for the troops to get away for both personal career development opportunities and sport, with WO1 Doug Tilney managing to partake in the latter. Along with two other soldiers from Command Wing, DSLA; WO1 Tilney deployed to Norway at the end of 2023 to participate in Ex Knees Bend which culminated in competing in the RLC Ski Championships (Alpine). After a week and a half of training the competition began in earnest. Daily racing saw

competitors completing at Slalom, GS and Super G (where speeds on snow exceeds 60mph). From the 110 competitors there were some impressive results with WO1 Tilney finishing 32nd, Cpl Luke Brandley (Team Captain) finishing 74th and Cpl Tom Fastnedge showing some very impressive results in the novice category.

Sgt Yeboah Asuamah delivered a reading to the Army Benevolent Fund’s annual carol service held at the Wren Chapel – Royal Hospital Chelsea. Not only was the deputy CGS, Lieutenant General Dame Sharon Nesmith DCB in attendance but the event brought together CEOs of the Corporate and Commercial World, Industrial Partners and various prominent individuals from society.The service provided a fantastic opportunity to share service life experiences with the corporate world and the need for the existence of service charities such as ABF, as well as making a vast sum in charitable donations.

In a bid to delve deeper into the integration of apprenticeships within the Ministry of Defence's (MOD) phase two training, Dr Andrew Murrison MP recently visited Worthy Down to understand how the military incorporates civilian qualifications into its training programs.

Sergeant Fowler and two trainees from the RLC Log Spec Supply course Class 3, provided valuable insights into the mechanisms through which the MOD integrates apprenticeships into phase two training. Highlighting the importance of aligning military skills with civilian standards, enabling service members to transition seamlessly into civilian roles post-service.

During the visit, trainees shared their personal journeys and how the apprenticeship framework enriched their training experiences.They emphasised the practical application of the skills acquired, both within the military context and beyond. From logistical operations to supply chain management, the apprenticeship program equipped them with versatile skills applicable across various industries.

The MP's visit underscored the MOD's commitment to fostering a holistic approach to training, one that not only hones military prowess but also equips personnel with transferrable skills for civilian endeavours. By intertwining apprenticeships with phase two training, the MOD ensures that service members are well-prepared for the challenges of tomorrow's workforce.

The RN Division has been busy running courses that included professional promotion courses, Pre-joining Courses and Dangerous Goods.

8 DMTS students conducting a section attack on the BCS phase of Ex DRAGON WHEEL

The RN/RFA Pt II trainees on the AB Basic Supply Chain Qualifying course undertook visits to HMS Victory, Portsmouth Naval Base and RNAS Yeovilton as part of the course to gain an understanding of naval history and supply chain in the Surface Fleet and the Fleet Air Arm.

The RN Reserve Logs Courses have been run successfully over the period with Reservists undertaking 2-week courses to enable them to work/manage and lead a Forward Logistics Site.They also conducted a Ship’s visit to HMS KENT and a tour of the RLC Museum with their Instructor CPO Lisa Guy.

In November the RN Division hosted a group of Veterans from the Royal British Legion. The group, known as ‘kitbags’ is an activity group for veteran dementia sufferers across Hampshire. They recently expressed a wish to visit the Worthy Down Camp as it is on their doorstep, so the RN STW agreed to give them a tour of the site.Two of the members of the group were based at Worthy Down during their military service, one when it was HMS Ariel and the other with the

8 One of the RN veterans visiting DCLPA Worthy Down had served there when it was HMS Ariel

Royal Army Pay Corps, so it was a moving experience to have them back as guests to show them how Worthy Down has evolved over the years since their service.They

particularly enjoyed the way that all the staff engaged with the veterans, it really made them feel part of the Armed Forces community.They toured the FSTW facility, starting with the Ships Galley and Wardroom and then witnessed the advanced Army catering course in action in the kitchen. After that they toured the RN STW ship simulator facility where they relaxed and reminisced about their military time.

The Royal Marines organised and held the RM Supply Chain Seminar at Worthy Down for all RM Supply Chain Seniors.VAdm Andy Kyte CB (UKStratCom-DefSp-CDLS and Chief Naval Logistic Officer) attended and briefed the seminar.

8 RN Reservists on HMS KENT

8 The RN Reserve Log Course with Monty’s Rolls at the RLC Museum

8 VAdm Kyte CB briefing the Royal Marines supply chain

The Defence School of Transport

In this edition of The Sustainer, we reflect on how resource constraints and the introduction of the Land Training System (LTS) are encouraging the rapid transformation of training delivery at DST.

Revolutionising Driver Training at DST: The Role of Simulation in the Modern Era

In June 2022, DST received a significant boost of funding from the Army Research, Innovation and Experimentation Laboratory (ARIEL) for the acquisition of Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) simulators, marking a pivotal moment in modernising driver training at DST.

Following a short tender process, LANDER Simulation Systems, was selected to supply and install four LGV simulators, along with associated support and initial training packages. Whilst the initial product was ‘off the shelf’ for the global market, LANDER tailored the software specifically to the European road systems and military tactical applications.

The four-day installation process, initiated in March, was captured via time-lapse video, showcasing the seamless integration of innovative technology into the centre of driver training at DST.

Through Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL), the simulators will serve as versatile platforms for several trials and experiments, encompassing every facet of the driving ecosystem, from Licence Acquisition (LA) to tactical transport operations. This experimental framework enables us to challenge existing norms, optimise training opportunities, and expand the horizons of personnel development while mitigating potential threats.

To foster innovation within the DST training space, a disruptive method will be adopted. This method seeks to encourage a culture of continuous improvement and forward-thinking.

In addition,Virtual Battle Space (VBS4) continues to provide DST with a virtual military environment for land, air and sea training, experimentation, and mission rehearsal application capability. It

Commandant: Colonel Laura Craig-Braddock

COS: Lt Col Damion Moxon

GSM: WO1 M Hickey

combines a substantial content library, powerful scenarios, terrain development tools, and after-action review capability that immerses the trainees in a high-fidelity virtual environment. With the new easy to use GEO terrain generator tool, it can virtualise any off/on road network/foreign city centre recreating accurate drive routes.

Aspirations in advanced technology don't stop there. DSTR is now exploring opportunities to leverage sUAS (Small Uncrewed Aircraft System) drones, currently utilised by the Media Support and Training Area Management team, to deliver sUAS training and awareness to service personnel attending driver training courses.

With support from SO2 WARDEV Combat Manoeuvre Centre, permanent staff from DST will undertake courses to enable them to deliver training courses to instructors (Train the Trainer), and students, providing situational awareness in the use of sUAS for logistic support/

8 DST now has four LGV driving simulators tailored specifically to the European road systems and military tactical applications

delivery in modern warfare and qualify them in basic practical flying.

The training course consists of two parts: a theory course set on the Defence Learning Environment (DLE) and practical course(s) delivered through embedded training at DST.

We believe that simulation-driven training offers limitless potential for enhancing driver education and we are poised to shape the future.

Enhanced Training Pipeline for 25 Regiment RLC: Optimising soldier time within the driver training pipeline.

The driver training pipeline for new soldiers in 25 Regiment RLC has undergone a significant transformation, moving from two modular courses to several shorter training segments. The restructuring not only simplifies the training process but also allows squadrons to monitor soldiers' progress, reducing holdover time and improving overall efficiency.

The revamped pipeline comprises eight modules spanning 68.5 days of training, ensuring soldiers receive a gradual and comprehensive training experience. Beginning with an Induction session at DST, soldiers familiarise themselves with available educational and welfare resources. They then proceed to the Logistic

8 DST Media Support uses drones to film training activity such as convoy drills

Foundation Course, covering essential RLC trade knowledge while instilling RLC ethos and acquainting soldiers with the Corps, its Units, and trades.

Soldiers undergo a 30-day License Acquisition Course (LA25) to obtain Category B, C, and C+E licenses. DST's training structure facilitates swift progress from theory to practical training, transitioning from camp to civilian roads. Instructors tailor training to each soldier's learning pace, ensuring they meet the 30-day target, highlighting the effectiveness of soldiers and DST training teams.

Following LA25, soldiers progress to the 10-day General Service (GS25) course, learning about DST’s green fleet, documentation, and driving specifics for vehicles like 6-tonne Supply Vehicles and Land Rovers. They also receive training in dangerous goods, night driving, winter conditions, and trailer towing.

Soldiers further undergo GS Tactical (GS25), a four-day training module incorporating mounted and unmounted vehicle use, culminating in a one-day exercise. To complete their driver training, they participate in Basic Vehicle Mechanics (BVM) for 1.5 days. Additionally, select trades (Drivers, Port Operators, Air Despatch and Communication Specialists) then also attend the 10-day Enhance Palletising Loading System (EPLS) Course.

The new driver training process reduces training time and ensures soldiers are operationally ready for their roles, enhancing efficiency. It is crucial for RLC soldiers to depart DST fully prepared for their future units, capable of performing tasks worldwide.

Supporting Distributed Training: Strengthening the driver training ecosystem

DST is privileged to possess vast real estate (776 acres in total) dedicated to driver training. Despite its remarkable infrastructure, the facilities have primarily served regular Service Personnel during the week, leaving weekends underutilised. However, through collaboration with the Army Reserve, DST is pioneering a new concept in training –Supported Distributed Training (SDT) –to optimise the utilisation of resources and bolster the capabilities of reservists.

SDT enables Army Reserve units to leverage DST facilities for weekend training sessions. Through this scheme, individual units bring their own DST-trained instructors, utilising the training areas, classrooms, and vehicles. This not only ensures adherence to the Safe System of Training but also enables reservist instructors to maintain currency - a challenge they often face due to limited training opportunities.

The School is currently in the midst of a pilot scheme with the Royal Logistic Corps Reserve and 150 Transport Regiment RLC, aimed at evaluating the feasibility and efficacy of SDT.

The success of this pilot for the RLC(R) is evident, with significant achievements in various training areas including Licence Acquisition, Driver Trade Training (ADR), and EPLS. Since its inception in Jan 24, over 30 soldiers have undergone training, all reporting positive experiences and a sense of belonging within the wider Armed Forces community.

Looking beyond weekend training sessions, there lies the potential for individual units to utilise the facilities for Annual Continuous Training (ACT) camps –a crucial component for reservists to attain their Certificate of

8 DST’s 776-acre training estate is dedicated to driver training. Inset: DST’s training facilities could be utilised for Annual Continuous Training (ACT) camps

Efficiency (CofE). Recently, 150 Regiment RLC conducted Ex WAGONERS SKILLS at DST, facilitating training for 30 service personnel. This demonstrates the scalability and versatility of DST facilities in accommodating extended training programs to meet the needs of reservists.

The introduction of Supported Distributed Training (SDT) not only enhances the operational readiness of reservists but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and integration within the Armed Forces community. By providing reservists with access to state-of-the-art facilities and ongoing training opportunities, DST can contribute to their professional development and retention within the Army Reserve.

DST does not have a monopoly on innovative ideas and would encourage engagement and feedback from any of its customers on how the School can rapidly improve delivery. Similarly, there is an open door to any stakeholders who wish to come and visit DST and help us to continually improve.

Over the last few months, the focus of the Corps’ attention has been firmly on Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER 24. This is hardly surprising given the scale of the exercise – with 90,000 troops from all 32 NATO Allies deploying; it is the largest military exercise in recent times. The British Army’s contribution to this NATO exercise, named Op LINOTYPER, has seen 16,000 service personnel deploy in a wide range of roles, from combat to support.

The goal of Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER 24 is for NATO to demonstrate its ability to project, sustain and recover troops to and from Europe on a large scale, to enhance interoperability at all levels, and to test the speed with which forces can be deployed. With 32 nations working together, it seems very appropriate that this exercise is taking place as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of NATO.

17 RLC

7

The main challenge for all of this is one of logistics - deploying tens of thousands of soldiers into mainland Europe, along with all their vehicles and equipment, and sustaining them for weeks or months before recovering them back to the UK is a complex task. This includes the tactical actions of enabling travel clearances, fuel, feeding, accommodation, replenishment of stores and recovery of waste, at the very least. These tasks are all conducted by The RLC’s various trades and branches, with significant support from other corps. The RLC’s contribution to this exercise can be summarised as mounting, projection, and sustainment. The responsibility for each of these has

Op LINOTYPER

fallen to a different CSS brigade –and encompassing a great deal of the Corps in some form.

Mounting - Mounting has been the responsibility of 102 Operational Sustainment Brigade (OSB). It is made up of 7 Regt RLC, along with Medical and REME assets, and generated an UK-based mounting group to ensure that all vehicles and equipment are fit for purpose and arrive at the correct port of embarkation ready to leave the UK. 102 OSB used an earlier exercise, Ex WESSEX HALBERD, to ensure it understood the roles and responsibilities of a mounting brigade ahead of Op LINOTYPER, and all of the brigades which have partaken in activity (7 LMBCT, 12 ABCT, 16 AABCT and 1 Avn BCT) will have been supported by the efforts of the RLC’s soldiers and officers within 102 OSB.

Projection - The next stage, projection, has been delivered by 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade (TSB) which consists of 9 Regt RLC, 17 Port & Maritime Regt RLC, 29 Regt RLC, 9 REME, and several reserve units contributing, including 165 Regt RLC and 167 Catering Support Regt RLC. 104 TSB is responsible for getting soldiers, vehicles, and equipment out of the UK and into theatre, be that by air, sea, road or rail. Once in theatre,

troops were received into theatre, staged in Sennelager, onward moved to final locations and then integrated with other NATO forces so that they were fully prepared to conduct their operations. On Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER 24 specifically, 104 TSB was tasked with forming an OF6-led headquarters in Germany and OF4-led Enabling Groups in Germany, Denmark and Poland respectively.

The OF6 headquarters, known as the Theatre Enabling Group (TEG) HQ, controlled the movements and operations of all three enabling groups in Europe. Based in Sennelager, it received reports from force elements on the ground, collating information and issuing orders to ensure the continued success of operations. Also in Sennelager was Enabling Group (South), a mix of 9 REME and 9 Regt RLC, containing the Theatre Support Area (TSA), which included field kitchens, movement control cell, supply areas, marshalling areas and will be operational for over six months –the longest of any contributing regiment on Op LINOTYPER.

Enabling Group (East), generated by 17 P&M Regt RLC, supported the recovery of 7 LMBCT following Ex POLISH DRAGON. Its HQ element in

8

confirming

LMBCT vehicles ahead of load onto RoRo

8 17 RLC controlling the loading of a Coyote onto Civilian Line Haul

Gdansk controlled moves by land, sea, and air using a number of tracking and communication technologies. Port Operators loaded vehicles and equipment onto roll-on roll-off (‘RoRo’) ships, faced with significant space constraints at times. 17 Regt also took over control of Syzmany Airfield from 7 Regt, facilitating the loading of combat vehicles onto civilian Heavy Equipment Transporters (HETs). EG(E) received visits from Air Attache Gp Capt Brown and the 104 Brigade Commander, Brig Smith. On the home bank, the Sea Mounting Centre (SMC) in Marchwood has been used throughout for the inloading and outloading of equipment by regular Port Operators and their reserve counterparts from 165 P&M Regt RLC.

Sustainment. Sustainment has been primarily delivered by 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade with elements of 10 QOGLR, 27 Regt RLC, 5 REME and several reserve units, they were deployed to provide logistic support between the Divisional and Brigade Support Areas. 10 QOGLR deployed ahead of 7 LMBCT, setting up a number of logistic support locations across Germany and Poland. With these in place, 7 LMBCT was able to deploy quickly and safely on both Ex BRILLIANT JUMP 2 and Ex POLISH DRAGON. Of note, 10 QOGLR demonstrated that it was able to provide logistic support on much larger scales than stated in doctrine. At the end of March, 27 Regt took over from 10 QOGLR and

will continue to run Convoy Support Centres (CSCs) in support of Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE, Ex SWIFT RESPONSE and Ex COMBINED RESOLVE. Chefs from across the whole force, based in Sennelager provided vital support during this hand over period, where the camp had large volumes of personnel transiting through. As part of this sustainment, Primary Bulk Fuel installations (PBFIs) were built in both Sennelager and Holzdorf –operated by 104 TSB and 101 OSB personnel respectively.

104 Th

Interoperability. Interoperability has been, and will continue to be, a key theme of Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER 24. Not only has significant collaboration taken place between RLC units, but also

8 Refuelling of the Dutch 43rd Mechanised Brigade ahead of their contribution to Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER

with civilian contractors, other support corps, such as REME and the Royal Signals, and with the force elements The RLC has been sustaining. 17 P&M Regt also worked closely with the Navy and RAF on Ex NORDIC RESPONSE as well as building key relationships with Polish Civil Authorities in the ports of Szczecin and Gdansk. 29 Regt RLC has led efforts in respect of UK-US Interoperability by forming Enabling Group (West) in Denmark and embedding within the US 16th Sustainment Brigade; helping them inload a US Brigade (1/1 CD) through the port of Esbjerg and beyond. As well as this, 101 OSB and other 104 TSB personnel conducted joint studies with members of 21 Theatre Sustainment Command in future technology of a ‘CSC-in-a-box’: rapidly deployable CSCs which can be moved across Europe swiftly. Throughout Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER, The RLC has already demonstrated its ability to overcome a multitude of challenges to successfully deploy and sustain thousands of troops over very large distances for extended periods of time. The remaining months will continue to test and develop all the different capabilities and trades of the Corps, and its abilities to communicate and operate with different groups.

8 RTCH loading Spanish armoured vehicle

8

Sust Bde Primary Bulk Fuel Installation near Sennelager – operated by members of 66 Sqn (9 RLC)

8 Refuelling of 12 ABCT packets by 66 Sqn (9 RLC) ahead of their move form Sennelager to Poland

In a remarkable display of endurance, camaraderie and charitable spirit, 20 members of Salamanca Company, Army Training Regiment Grantham, undertook the Lands’ End to John O’Groats Challenge.

By Cpl Subash Limbu (RLC)

The challenge was a gruelling duathlon covering 874 miles, including eight marathons (209.75 miles of running), coupled with a staggering 665 miles of cycling. This extraordinary feat unfolded over three intense days from November 22nd to 24th, 2023.

The brainchild of Cpl Ivan Mujungu (RLC) and Cpl Subash Limbu (RLC), the event was not only a test of physical prowess, but also a testament to the commitment of the participants towards community engagement and philanthropy. The 20-strong team faced the daunting task with a united purpose: to raise funds for charity while experiencing the renowned Lands’ End to John O’Groats challenge first-hand.

The funds raised were allocated judiciously, with 60% directed towards the Grantham Food Bank and the remaining 40% supporting ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. This

distribution reflected the organisers' commitment to addressing both local community needs and broader national causes.

The charity event's overarching aim was to foster community engagement, strengthen team cohesion, conduct a successful fundraiser for charity and glean insights from the renowned Lands’ End to John O’Groats challenge.

The carefully outlined objectives included building positive relationships with the local Grantham community, promoting team bonding within Grantham station members, and raising significant funds for charity.

The rigorous schedule of the challenge unfolded over three consecutive days. On the first and second days, participants covered a formidable 140 miles of running and an additional 360 miles of cycling. The third day saw a symbolic one-mile run (lap of honour) followed by 125 miles of cycling. This strategic breakdown ensured a balance between the duathlon's demanding components while emphasising the monumental cycling distance on the final day.

The success of the event was palpable, resonating not only in the

achievements of the participants but also in the positive feedback received from all involved. The Salamanca Company team demonstrated not only physical endurance but also a strong commitment to their objectives, proving that challenges of this magnitude can be conquered through teamwork and determination.

Beyond the physical accomplishments, the charity challenge left an indelible mark on the Grantham community. The relationships forged during the event extended beyond the Salamanca Company, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration. The funds raised made a meaningful impact on Grantham Food Bank and ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, further solidifying the event's purpose and success.

In conclusion, the Lands’ End to John O’Groats Charity Challenge stood as a beacon of resilience, unity, and philanthropy. The participants not only conquered an arduous physical challenge but also demonstrated the power of collective effort in making a positive impact on both local and national levels.

48th Joint Culinary Training Exercise Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia

By WO1 (SSM) Pete Moffat DCWO 1 (UK) Division

The 48th annual Joint Culinary Training Exercise (48th JCTE) took place in Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia between 27 Feb and 10 Mar 24. This year the manager, WO1 Pete Moffat had the privilege to take 10 chefs, one mentor and a RLC Photographer to capture every moment. The team was split into international competitors and British Army Culinary Arts Team (BACAT) competitors for individual and team events.

The team departed for Virginia on the 27 Feb. With a 23-hour travel time the team arrived at its hotel shortly before midnight and everyone was glad to see their beds.

Day 1 started with Cpl Dunn competing in the Armed Forces Chef of the Year which is a five-hour competition with a mystery basket of ingredients and a larder to assist in producing four portions of a four-course meal, comprising of a hot appetiser, a soup or a salad, a main course, and a dessert of the competitor’s choice. Arriving at the Joint Culinary Centre of Excellence (JCCoE) at 0530 in the morning, he ensured he had all equipment required for any situation, he then began to cook at 0630 with a completion time of 1130 for service. His dishes were then judged and scored, and results were announced. Meanwhile SSgt Henderson got to work with the Senior and Junior team to ensure all were ready for their competitions starting with the Student Team Challenge and the Senior Pastry Chef of the Year.

Day 2 saw the student team and the Senior Pastry Chef of the Year compete in their categories. The student team consisted of all junior members where they were to prepare, cook and present six portions of a four-course menu comprising of a fish starter, a salad, a main course with a modern twist on the classic ‘Poulet Sauté a la Catalane’ from the classical cookbook Escoffier and finished off with a dessert. The team also had to show good communication skills as well as timings to ensure the dishes went out in order as per a restaurant service. All the above was to be

The teams consisted of the following:

Team Manager: WO1 Pete Moffat

Team Mentor: SSgt Paul Henderson

Photographer: Cpl Barry McKenzie

International Team Captain: SSgt Rachyel Ainsworth

International Chef: Cpl Jaden Dunn

Senior Team Captain: Cpl Chris Finch

Senior Team 2IC: LCpl Brett Silk

Senior Team Chef: Cpl Jayandra Pun

Senior Team Chef: LCpl Wayne Jackson

Junior Team Captain: Pte Kendra Simon

Junior Team 2IC: Pte Izzy Awudi

Junior Team Chef: Pte Derrick Ofori Yeboah

Junior Team Chef: Pte Jorge Hamilton

complete in 90 minutes with a 20-minute plating window. The team did not disappoint.

LCpl Silk then took to the stage to compete in the Senior Pastry Chef of the Year where he had to present four-portions of a plated cold dessert in 90 minutes with a few caveats.

On to Day 3 and the competition didn’t slow down with another two categories for the team with the Nutritional Challenge and Junior Chef of the Year. Pte Izzy Awudi represented the team in the Junior Chef of the Year where she had to prepare cook and present a pork dish with suitable garnishes for four people in 60 minutes. Pte Awudi took this category in her stride and completed the dish with five minutes to spare. She prepared Pan Seared Pork Loin, Celeriac Fondant filled with Pork Ragu topped with a herb crumb, Celeriac and Parsnip Puree, Spinach, Glazed Carrot, Apple Puree and finished with a Cider Jus.

The nutritional challenge was a challenge for SSgt Henderson with many sleepless night counting calories, fats, proteins and carbohydrates. The team consisting of Cpl Chris Finch and LCpl Wayne Jackson had to prepare a four-course menu for four people. The meal had to include a hot appetizer; soup or salad; an entrée; and a dessert; three portions for judging and one for display and critique. The total caloric value of the meal should not exceed 1,000 kcal per person. The team managed to make a menu that comprised all the caveats and the judges commented on the complexity of the Courgette and Goats Cheese Cannelloni being a standout dish in the category.

Day 4 saw all members of the Senior and Junior teams compete in the MKT Challenge (which is the US version of our Field Catering System) with the Senior team cooking and the Junior team serving. This event requires the preparation of 50 portions of a complex four-course meal consisting of one soup; one composed salad; one meat dish, one vegetarian dish, one starch side dish, one vegetable side dish, one

The results were:

Armed Forces Chef of the Year – Cpl Jaden Dunn –Silver Medal

Student Team – Pte Kendra Simon, Pte Izzy Awudi, Pte Jorge Hamilton and Pte Derrick Ofori Yeboah – Silver Medal

Senior Pastry Chef of the Year – LCpl Brett Silk –Bronze Medal

Nutrition Challenge – Cpl Chris Finch and LCpl

Wayne Jackson – Bronze Medal

Junior Chef of the Year – Pte Izzy Awudi – Bronze Medal

MKT Challenge – All team members – Gold Medal

Junior Pastry Chef of the Year – Pte Jorge Hamilton – Bronze Medal

International Categories

Bread Display – Cpl Jaden Dunn – Silver Medal

Fish Platter – SSgt Rachyel Ainsworth – Gold Medal

Contemporary Hot Kitchen – Cpl Jaden Dunn –Gold Medal

Plated Cold Dessert – SSgt Rachyel Ainsworth –Gold Medal

sauce; and a dessert utilising the established field feeding platform. The team had four hours to prepare and cook the menu. The team did extremely well with the final plate being served with one minute to spare on the clock.

Day 5 was when the competition really started to heat up with the start of the international categories and the Junior Pastry Chef of the Year. Pte Jorge Hamilton represented the team in this category where he had to produce four portions of a plated hot dessert in 90 minutes. His dish comprised of a Dark Chocolate Fondant, Caramelised Banana, Chocolate Shards, Banana Ice Cream, Dark Chocolate Soil, and a Caramel Sauce. Pte Hamilton utilised the whole 90 minutes ensuring he made every element from scratch in front of the judges and showing his skills.

piece and slice being the same size and cut evenly before dipping in Aspic Jelly to ensure that the food looks the very best for the judges. Again, this must be done last minute to ensure the very best result so another 36-hour shift for our second internationalist event and for the Team Captain.

The first event in the international event was Cpl Dunn in the Open Bread Display, where he had to produce three different types of dough with two products from each dough type for a total of six different items, Items should be freshly baked without any spray lacquer. The choices of dough he could choose from were extensive. Starting 36 hours earlier, Cpl Dunn started making his doughs and garnishes to ensure everything was perfect. Working through the night baking all the breads whether that be two loafs of each or 12 rolls of each. He then had two hours from 0400 – 0600 to set up his display and ensure that everything was in place for the judging to commence at 0630.

Day 6 and another all nighter for SSgt Rachyel Ainsworth who continued with the international category with the Show Fish Platter with suitable garnishes. This being no easy task and ensuring every

Day 7 and the final day of the competition. The final two categories in the international event saw Cpl Dunn compete in the Contemporary Hot Kitchen and SSgt Ainsworth compete in the Cold Plated Dessert. Cpl Dunn was up first where he had 60 minutes to prepare cook and present a hot pork dish of his choice. His dish was Sousvide Pork, Glazed Pork Belly, Puffed Rind, Macadamia Nut Puree, Roasted Onion, Apple Ketchup, Pan Roasted Cabbage, Potato Croquette, Hen of Wood Mushrooms, Lions Mane Mushroom, Apple Cider and Malt Sauce finished with Apple and Morels topped with Micro Chervil. Again, using every second to ensure the dish was perfect he finished his dish with seconds to spare the judges automatically had a smile on their faces and delved straight into judging his dish. Second up with SSgt Ainsworth who had 90 minutes to prepare cook and present a Cold Plated Dessert of her choice, her dish was Lemon Tart topped with Meringue Shards, Lemon Curd, Italian Meringue, Candied Lemon, Toasted Coconut, and a Coconut Ice-Cream, garnished with Chervil and yellow blossom leaves. Again, maximising the time given she executed the dish to perfection with a little time spare and the judges again were mesmerised by the plating techniques and devoured the tasting plate.

Day 8 was presentation day and for the chefs to receive the accolades they deserve. With over 300 people receiving awards this was no easy task for the Sergeant Major Gibson of the JCCoE who got all competitors and their supporting teams in the auditorium for 0700 to ensure that when 1000 came this would run like clockwork. 1000 and the VIPs and guests arrived, and the presentation got underway.

The international team did not only win all the medals (top left) but were crowned International Champions for the third year running something that has never been done by any team in the history of the competition. A huge well done to all that competed and the management staff for their efforts with all competitors medalling and returning to the UK with Silverware and the International Trophy.

Support for Mental Health in Ghana

By Cpl Gordon Amoah 4 LBCT Catterick

Over the recent festive period, a group of seven British soldiers originally from Ghana, spearheaded a Mental Health Campaign in Support of Accra Psychiatric Hospital in Ghana.

The seven-strong team, all passionate about mental health, were inspired by efforts of the British Army’s drive to address mental health in recent years and felt encouraged – and as a way of giving back to societyto lend a helping hand to institutions in Ghana supporting mental health which are in dire need of assistance. The team was also touched by the deprived nature of the infrastructure and the general environment, as well as the myriad of issues affecting patient care and rehabilitation during a previous visit to the hospital.

The Accra Psychiatric Hospital is responsible for the treatment, welfare, training, and rehabilitation of the mentally ill. It was commissioned in 1906 and currently has a 600-bed capacity but continues to struggle financially despite the Ghanaian Government`s best efforts. The top ten OPD Diagnosis of the Hospital are Schizophrenia, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Seizure Disorder, Alcohol & Substance Abuse, Acute Psychotic Disorder, Dementia, Anxiety Disorders, Mental Retardation and Migraine.

The serving British Soldiers who came together in their individual capacities to organize and solicit for funding support for this laudable charity event are as follows: Cpl Richmond Kwateng (AGC-4 LBCTCatterick); Cpl Gordon Amoah (RLC-4 LBCT-Catterick); LCpl Michael Kankam-Boadu (AGC-JSSU-Digby); LCpl Emmanuel Sanihyiah (10 QOGLR-Aldershot); Cpl Emmanuel Amedzou (19 Regt RA-Tidworth); Cpl David Osei-Adu (25 Regt-Leconfield) and Cpl Michael Kwatia (13 AASR-Colchester).

The Team reached out to the hospital in the first instance to enquire what its current pressing needs

were. This was necessary as the team did not want its support to be misplaced and wasted. Based on the feedback from the administrators of the hospital, the team set out to raise £2,000 through JustGiving. This was well supported by the Soldiers' Units and individuals passionate about mental health, who donated to support the cause. In addition, they also appealed for donations of clothing items for varying ages within their respective Units with the intention to ship them to Ghana to support the hospital.

As part of the mental health campaign, the team also embarked on a series of physically challenging activities to further raise the awareness levels. These included a Push Challenge which involved doing 300 push ups each day for a continuous 30 days; this caught on quite well as a lot of the Troops and Chain of Command got involved, especially at 13 AASR based in Colchester.

8 Cpl Amoah, Cpl Kwatia, Cpl Sanihyiah, Cpl Kwateng

8 Cpl Kwateng with Cpl Amoah

8 Cpl Williams, Naomy Williams and Cpl Amoah

Also, collectively, team members covered over 1,400 miles engaging in various activities such as running, tabbing, cycling and rowing, among other activities. At this stage it is only befitting that two individuals not part of the team of seven - who dedicated their time and efforts to challenge themselves to contribute a lot of miles to the physical challenge be mentioned and celebrated: Mrs Naomy Williams (civilian) and WO1 Peter Longden BOWO of 4th Light Brigade Combat Team (4LBCT). Thank you, for your great efforts!

The JustGiving fund raising efforts yielded a total of £2,168.56 which exceeded the initial target of £2,000 by over 8% and was utilised to procure the items shown at figure 1.

The official presentation of the items was carried out in the morning of 9 Dec 23 at the premises of Accra Psychiatric Hospital in Ghana and in the presence of staff of the Hospital and other well-wishers.

In addition, through the magnanimity of both military and civilian staff affiliated to the Army, the team was able to amass four big MFO boxes of clothing which were shipped to Accra, Ghana to support the Hospital. Special thanks go to colleagues and seniors of the seven respective Units for their donations and support

and most especially the military and civilian staff of 4 LBCT based in Catterick for their immense contributions to make this charity event a huge success.

The Hospital through the reps who received the donations expressed great satisfaction and appreciation for them and intimated the immense difference the donations would make to supporting patient care and rehabilitation. They also encouraged the team to reach out to them regularly with such timely support every now and then.

The team believes that there is help out there for mental health issues and so individuals especially military personnel must not suffer in silence and feel isolated. Instead, they should reach out to the various support groups that provide help.

8 Figure 1: Items presented to Accra Psychiatric Hospital

8 Handing over donations to hospital staff in Ghana

8 Top left: Cpl Amoah on a tab. Top right: Cpl Kwateng clocking up the miles. Above: Soldiers from 13AASR led by Cpl Kwatia in Press Up challenge

17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC

The Port OperatorsAnchors of logistics

Every day, 17 P&M Regt’s port operators embark on a rigorous planning and coordination journey. Their tasks are multifaceted, involving close collaboration with military leaders, logistics officers, and civilian contractors to orchestrate the seamless flow of goods in and out of strategic locations. Attention to detail is their watchword, for any oversight could disrupt critical supply chains and compromise operational readiness.

Once operations commence, these dedicated individuals oversee the loading and unloading of ships and trains, utilising heavy machinery with precision and skill to handle diverse cargo. From operating cranes to manoeuvring forklifts, their expertise ensures that goods are handled safely and efficiently, regardless of size or weight.

Moreover, port operators are entrusted with maintaining accurate records and documentation, tracking inventory and monitoring shipments in real time. This wealth of information serves as a cornerstone for decision-making at all levels of command.

Beyond their technical responsibilities, port operators also shoulder the mantle of force protection and security. Enforcing strict protocols and conducting security patrols, they safeguard sensitive areas against threats ranging from terrorism to sabotage.

This vast array of responsibilities has taken port operators all over the world. With standing commitments in Cyprus, The Falkland Islands and Gibraltar. Alongside these standing commitments, they have also been committed to supporting Op CABRIT, INTERLINK and LINOTYPER.

The Vehicle Support SpecialistsDriving force behind the scenes

The VSS have undergone a radical change moving from 53 Sqn into the two task Sqns, 52 and 51. They

are now a composite part of the Port Task Groups (PTGs) which deploy all over the globe.

Despite the demanding tempo, the VSS personnel remain dedicated to their duties, balancing operational commitments with personal development and leisure pursuits.

The evolution of Mexeflote technology - Enhancing maritime capabilities

A quiet evolution is underway in Mexeflote technology. Designed to provide extensive beach landing capabilities, Mexeflote's flexibility has been its strength and challenge in modernisation efforts.

Recent upgrades in Mexeflote technology underscore the Regt’s commitment to enhancing maritime capabilities. From new severe cold weather suits for extreme conditions to integrating maritime radios with automatic identification systems (AIS), these advancements enable enhanced communication and navigation in diverse environments.

Engineering improvements, including more powerful engines and redesigned bow articulator jacks, promise to enhance operational efficiency and reliability, ensuring Mexeflote remains a

8 17 P&M Regt’s Port Ops deploy to locations across the world

versatile asset for years to come. The increased power of these engines now means MEXE are amongst the most capable landing craft in the fleet. As Mexeflote technology evolves and the Regiment's personnel navigate the complexities of global logistics, one thing remains constant - the unwavering commitment to mission success and the tireless dedication to serving the nation with pride and professionalism.

Littoral Response Groups (LRGs): LRGs are specialised military units designed to respond quickly to crises and conflicts in littoral, or costal, regions. They first deployed in 2023; they are the UKs first point of contact. Composed of a mix of Naval, Royal Marines and specialised units (17P&M), they split the world into two hemispheres. The Regt’s trades embark and remain on board the ships in four-month stints, exercising with Commando Forces and being poised to respond to any emergency. Op CHAMBRAY is the most recent response of an LRG where they helped deliver aid to GAZA.

27 Regiment RLC

Petroleum Operator

Workforce – Year 22/23 was a great year for promotion within Trade for 8 Fuel & General Transport Squadron. The reformation of F&GT Sqns across the Corps has seen a host of new positions open. One LCpl and ten Ptes have been selected for promotion in this reporting year. This Ptes board is one of the largest in 27 Regt’s history.

The Regt has been hosting several Look At Life prospectives from other cap badges. These SP are interested in re-trading and taking employment within the growing trade. The financial incentive that the British Army has offered is likely the stimulus for this, meaning that SP are not transferring for the right reasons. The Trade continues to struggle with civilian recruitment.

Equipment - Self-Dispensing

Fuels

Pallets (SDFPs) trials

Field Army has provided 27 Regt with the opportunity to be involved with the trials and testing process of the newly procured SDFPs. The SDFPs concept has been reinvigorated over the past year with the only two SDFPs being assigned to the Regt. The Regt has been involved with working groups, user reports, modification proposals and equipment training. The current SDFPs are the smaller varieties which possess limited capability, however, if the trials succeed and the equipment brought into service the larger varieties could provide resilience when working at reach and reduce the burden on CSTs.

Driver Tank Transporter Operator

The Driver Tank Transporter Operator (DTTO) Trade and 19 Sqn, remains as busy as ever. Providing Defence’s sole heavy lift capability, 19 Sqn is committed to delivering strategic effect of behalf of Field Army. A troop is on constant rotation on Op CABRIT and the Sqn deploys on every large scale 101 OSB exercise and operation. The School of Tank Transporting has also been busy qualifying new SP on Medium and Heavy Equipment

Transporters (MET and HET) on their biannual Class 3 courses and advancing existing trade members on their Class 1 DTTO courses, which will culminate in a challenging tactical exercise testing their skills and drills against an enemy threat.

Outside of the habitual high tempo business as usual, the emphasis on heavy lift in support of Ukraine has increased exponentially in the last 12 months. 19 Sqn’s first engagement of 2023 was the successful completion of Op ALBA, which saw the successful uplift of 107 platforms from across the country and delivered to SMC Marchwood to fulfil the UK’s Giving in Kindness commitments to the ongoing war in Ukraine. These platforms ranged from CVRT all the way to Challenger 2’s and running 24-hour operations was completed in just under three weeks. This saw the beginning of a fast paced and busy year for everyone in the Sqn.

Following on from Op ALBA, B and E Troops deployed on Ex PHEONIX WOLF, based initially in Abingdon but covering the length and breadth of the UK, fulfilling Field Army taskings, set in an exercise context to achieve Training Level Bravo. This set the conditions for 19 Sqn to deploy on masse on Ex IRON TITAN 23, the largest CSS exercise ever configured. During the exercise 19 Sqn drove the equivalent of driving to Papua New Guinea and back delivering hundreds of tons of battle winning equipment and achieving Training Level Foxtrot in the process.

During the first quarter of 2024, the Sqn’s focus has been split between preparing two Troops for Op LINOTYPER and A Tp’s Op

8 The reformation of F&GT Sqns across the Corps brought a host of new opportunities for Pet Ops

CABRIT rotation. Yet again the Sqn and the trade has proven itself vital and integral to 3 (UK) Division’s warfighting capability and the Very High Readiness Joint Task Force’s manoeuvres on the largest NATO exercise in over 30 years. Just another example of 19 Sqn and the DTTO trade delivering real time operational effect on the home and far banks.

So what awaits potential DTTO prospects?

The DTTO Trade is an elite subbranch of the RLC Driver Trade so you will conduct your initial trade training at DST Leconfield, giving you the opportunity to be dual traded so eligible to promote on both the DTTO and Driver promotion boards. For those already qualified on General Service fleet they can re-trade to DTTO and all subsequent training in conducted in house at 19 Sqn’s School of Tank Transporting. The Sqn is based in Ward Barracks in the beautiful rolling hills of Bulford and if successful on your Class 3 course you will spend the majority of your career here, giving you and your family a degree of stability coupled with constant opportunities to deploy.

The School of Tank Transporting will load you onto firstly the MET course, gaining experience and time behind the wheel before training you up on the MET’s bigger brother; Oshkosh M1070F Heavy Equipment Transporter. With 700 horsepower and a maximum payload of 72,000 kgs you could be

in charge of the largest military vehicle in Defence. From there you will work to upgrade your competencies from an A3 to an A2 by completing a prerequisite number of drags (trips with a load on board) and other trade related activities. Once the A2 upgrade has been completed, you will become eligible for the A1 upgrade course giving you the qualifications required to lead a packet of HET across mainland Europe and further afield in support of UK Defence.

What does the future hold for the trade?

As the only trade to increase as part of the Integrated Review, plans are in place to further enhance employability and increase promotion prospects. As part of the Materiel Distribution Land 25 Project, the Army is scoping future heavy equipment platforms to cope with the increased size and weight of our battle winning equipment meaning the trade is at the forefront of innovation, testing new and exciting ways of taking the fight to the enemy. The trade relies on re-allocation of training the retrades from across Field Army, but we need more highly motivated and deployable individuals to continue to deliver consistent strategic effect. When you join the trade, you join a family of tank transporters with a rich history and an even brighter future.

9 Regiment RLC

Beginning a career in LSS –Pte Khim Bahadur Chhetri, 94 QOGLR Sqn

Op CHAMBRAY

I deployed on Op CHAMBRAY with a small section of LSS personnel and this operation held special significance for me as it marked my first overseas operational deployment. It was a great opportunity to work with some exceptional JNCOs who cultivated the trade knowledge of many young private soldiers whilst deployed, including myself. I learned a lot and returned to the UK a better soldier with a hunger to further my LSS knowledge in the deployed environment.

Op LINOTYPER

I did not have to wait long. Three months later, 94 Sqn QOGLR deployed to Germany for Op LINOTYPER, the largest NATO exercise since 1984. Whilst deployed the Sqn operated within the JSA (Joint Support Area), which comprises of the Ammo Troop, Log RV Troop, and Mat Troop.

During this tour, I worked in Log RV EG South, specifically in the consignment tracking of stores arriving in theatre and reconfiguring them for the onward movement to DSA1 and beyond. My main responsibility in the Log RV is to ensure that the packages are correctly tracked on VITAL. Moreover, given my recent experience on Op CHAMBRAY, I now mentor and supervise junior Privates to enhance their trade knowledge. I am also looking broaden my trade knowledge and gain a wider understanding of the plethora of deployed aspects within my trade.

In a nutshell, 2023 was a fantastic year for 94 Sqn QOGLR, 9 Regt RLC. I, like many of my peers, have learned a huge amount surrounding the different aspects of my trade. I look forward to continuing my LSS journey and the opportunities that 2024 will bring to the Sqn and the soldiers of 9 Regt.

Life Saving Logistics –By Pte Limbu and Pte Pellet, 84 Medical Supply Squadron

The position of a Logistic Specialist (Supply) plays a crucial role in The RLC in ensuring the smooth operation of the logistic supply chain. Upon arrival at 9 Regt, we were assigned to 84 Medical Supply Squadron (84 MSS), a unique squadron in Defence. This role brought with it additional training and responsibility in handling both blood and medical supplies. In 84 MSS, the focus shifts from traditional supply chain management to the specialised realm of medical logistics. To support this, we have an embedded medical cell of RAMC personnel, including biomedical scientists, pharm techs and CMTs. 84 MSS is tasked with supplying a wide range of medical stores, including blood, medical gases, and drugs, to support medical assets in various theatres of operation. The attention to detail required when handling drugs and medical supplies becomes increasingly important due to the critical nature of the supplies and restrictive and time sensitive storage constraints. The opportunities within 84 MSS extend beyond supply chain management, offering avenues for personal and professional growth. From collaborating with CLR RM, to serving as a medical supply specialist within 16 Air Assault Brigade, the Sqn presents a myriad of deployment opportunities both domestically and overseas. One of the defining features of 84 MSS is its commitment to maintaining stock conditions to NHS standard policy, highlighting the squadron’s reputation as the MOD’s niche medical supply capability.

Op LINOTYPER saw two five-person Dets from 84MSS to provide a critical med supply capabilities and support the deployed field hospital. This tested our SP, ensuring they are current and competent to fulfil this essential role. It was an exciting opportunity to develop doctrine, and work alongside our NATO partners as well both RAMC and RLC colleagues.

We are excited to see where this journey takes us next!

8 Pte Khim Bahadur Chhetri

151 Regiment RLC boasts an ever-expanding cadre of junior officers and this trend is set to continue throughout 2024-25, with more individuals due to attend the Army Reserves Commissioning Course Short (CCS) at the world-renowned Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) and many others in the process of undertaking their selection examinations at Westbury. Here, recently commissioned 2Lt Emily Fisher of 210 Squadron shares her most memorable moments from CCS 233, in 2023.

“On 25 November, I paraded with 105 fellow Officer Cadets (OCdts) across a frost-covered Old College square at the conclusion of CCS 233. The Reserves Commissioning Course Short consists of four twoweek modules that can be completed individually across different intakes over a period of 12 years, or all in one go (‘from zero to hero’). All incoming Reserve Potential Officers (ResPOs) attend, as well as those wishing to become Regular or Reserve Professionally Qualified Officers (PQOs) including dentists, physios, and padres. Whereas Modules C and D must be completed at RMAS, Modules A and B can also be undertaken with a University Officer Training Corps (UOTC) either as one module per year spread over two academic terms (university students only) or as a series of weekends for ResPOs attached to Reserve units.

I’d completed Module A at RMAS in February 2023 and returned for Modules B-D across six weeks October to November. Module A sees OCdts learning the basics such as kit and equipment preparation, drill, and navigation. A baptism of fire, it is a brilliant introduction to military life. There is an increased focus on leadership skills during Module B, as well as getting to grips with radios and voice procedure. Module C begins with an assessment under exam conditions on the ability of OCdts to conduct the Combat Estimate and deliver a set of orders. This is consolidated with a five-day field exercise involving plenty of command positions and very little sleep. Lastly, in Module D, military leadership skills are further developed during a

Marching Tall Along the Commissioning Pathway

final field exercise and lessons on subjects such as war studies and personnel administration. Throughout all four modules there are also plenty of regular PT sessions and inspections! The Commissioning Parade, culminating with OCdts marching proudly up the steps of Old College, marks the end of the course.

Despite ‘some of the worst weather a Commissioning Course Short has ever seen,’ my time at RMAS was a brilliant experience and a big change from my normal 9-5 office job! Particular highlights were the visit from 210 Sqn’s Ops Officer and SSM midway through

8 2Lt Fisher (facing camera) with her RMAS stretcher race team in the freezing cold Wish Stream during her final commissioning course exercise in 2023

Module C’s Exercise WAVELL’S WARRIOR with enough snacks to sustain the whole platoon and competing in the historic stretcher race through the Wish Stream on the final day of Module D’s Exercise HORROCK’S ENDEAVOUR. It was brilliant to return to Sutton as a Second Lieutenant and I look forward to building upon what I have learnt at Sandhurst in 2024. Many thanks to all at 151 Regiment for their support.”

By Maj (Retd) Sip Powers

Let’s not beat about the bush, there was a reason for completing probably one of the toughest challenges in the UK, which until the 26 Aug 23 only six people in history had ever done. To put that into context, more people have stepped foot on the moon!

After being retrospectively medically discharged from the HM Forces in 2022 after completing 34 years’ service and suddenly losing Bessy, our incredible 11-year-old Staffy in January of the same year, I came close to taking my own life. I was ashamed, embarrassed, I felt like a coward and a hypocrite and I couldn’t talk to anyone about it. My wife Emma is the only person who knows the truth and it took me a long time to come to terms with my actions and tell her. I knew I had to do something to support other veterans out there that were struggling, many who don’t often have the same level of support and love that I have.

In order to make people sit up and listen, I decided to complete all 214 Wainwrights in a single selfsupported non-stop round. After conducting months of research and planning the date was set for the 1 Aug 23 starting from Moot Hall in Keswick allowing myself 25 days to complete the ultra-endurance challenge. Once again, I would be supporting Combat Stress in an attempt to raise their profile across the UK and conduct some important fundraising at the same time.

I intended to follow the Paul Tierney speed record route with some minor changes. His route is approx. 540km long, mine would be approx. 600km due to physically not being able to commit to the fell running lines carrying an expedition bergan weighing in excess of 20kg. This would also include 36,000m of ascent (four times the height of Mt. Everest from sea level). What I hadn’t prepared for, which would have a dramatic effect on the distance eventually travelled, was the weather!

It’s important to understand that being self-supported meant a great deal of pre-planning and setting up eight replenishment stashes logistically placed around the

“The

hardest mountain to climb is the

one within!”

600km route. This would allow me three days of supplies on my person before reaching each stash for a complete replen. This also meant it was imperative that I reached each stash as planned so I didn’t run out of food and supplies. This could be life threatening as a type 1 diabetic and someone suffering with autoimmune syndrome and having a permanent stoma, I probably should have mentioned these facts earlier, as it makes this extreme endurance event a hundred times more difficult and challenging in comparison to an able-bodied person completing this extremely difficult journey.

At 0600hrs I set off from Keswick

joined by my former Sergeant Major, Rob the 2IC of Combat Stress and the world-famous mountaineer Alan Hinkes. It was hammering it down which would continue for the next five days. On day six the weather finally broke and I completed the longest planned day in extremely warm conditions. Unfortunately, this would have an impact on the next two days as I was forced to filter less than desirable water from a high mountain tarn to mix with my much-needed High5 powder to keep my blood sugars from becoming too low. After a couple of hours, I started to suffer with DV, having had my bowels and rectum removed this meant my stoma constantly filling up with liquid and require continually emptying, increasing my dehydration and risk of hypoglycaemia. I gritted my teeth and made it to the end of day six destination where I continued to be ill all night but had the opportunity in the safety of my tent to square away my admin.

0500hrs and the start of day seven. I had struggled with my blood sugar control all night but needed to press on across the Scarfell massive. I have completed a lot of extreme courses, expeditions and competitions

during my 34 years’ service, including 17 Ironman events. I have been a diabetic for almost 30 years and deployed on numerous operational tours, something unheard of in most serving personnel so I believed I had a pretty good understanding of this disability. I was not prepared for the next eight hours trekking across some pretty technical terrain virtually having a permanent hypo! Eventually breaking down in tears with the realisation that there was the potential for me to slip into a coma on the side of the mountain - and with once gain honking weather probably unlikely to be found for some time - I realised I needed to wrap. I managed to get a signal and called Emma. Concerned for my safety she also came to the same conclusion. I thought of all the wounded soldiers I had worked with during my Battleback years and pictured these incredible individuals with horrific physical and mental injuries and remembered all of them not giving up. “It’s not about what you can’t do but all about what you can do”, words I had told them all, countless times. After taking a detour I decided to carry on. I knew I wouldn’t reach my objective, so I decided to make camp close to a clean running stream, drink as much fresh water as possible to hopefully flush out my system and once again sort out my admin and control my blood sugars.

scrambles where I thought I was going to kill myself. Out of those 26 days, only seven of them could be classed as good weather. I walked for days soaked to the bone but maintained a rigorous wet and dry routine each night to ensure my tent remained a place of sanctuary and not of misery… The military had taught me well.

Having survived the last couple of days, even though I was now a day behind schedule, I felt strong again and was back on track. Onwards and upwards! There were many periods along the 26-day journey where I felt like giving up. I struggled with negative thoughts and constantly questioned why I was doing this. I spent many hours talking to myself out loud; I went four days without seeing another person and experienced several moments including river crossings and downclimbing grade 1

There were many highlights, thinking of them now as I type these notes I am welling up. Many of my friends and former colleagues joined me along the route, some of them as a surprise, Les! They were a massive lift to my morale and gave me the strength and determination to keep going. I also met some wonderful Cumbrian locals that showed me unbelievable acts of kindness that I will never forget. And to all the Wainwright baggers that stopped to chat and were stunned to hear I was completing all 214 in one sitting, some of them jealous as it had taken them over 40 years! I witnessed amazing sunsets and sunrises, herds of deer running as a pack across the fells below me, sheets of rain billowing in front of a rainbow close enough for me to touch and a heron land within metres of my tent. These were all things that instantly made me burst into tears overwhelmed with joy and beauty of the surroundings.

What have I learned? To appreciate the simple things in life,

to take nothing for granted and to love Emma more! When you are faced with difficulties try not to worry about what inevitably is coming up ahead of you but instead look over your shoulder and see how far you have come. Anything is possible if you believe in the cause and you keep going and don’t give in. In order for you to know your true limits you have to push them first. I know that I have cast aside some demons I have carried for far too long, the mountains have always been my sanctuary, I wish everyone could experience a brief period of my journey. It was the reason why I set up Extreme Outdoors to allow anyone, especially our veteran community to live that experience in order to support their own mental wellbeing.

Finally, for those that love stats, the total distance travelled was 709.78km (thanks to pants weather and unforgiving terrain) and 43,528m of ascent, one more Mt Everest than planned for good measure and a test of determination!

The RLC Alpine Skiing season 2023/24 proved arguably one of the Corps’ greatest in recent memory, with the biggest Ex ALPINE KNEES BEND (AKB), ten RLC teams competing at the Qualifying Championships and four Unit teams qualifying for the Army Alpine Championships. Ultimately 6 Regt RLC was crowned as the Army Alpine Champions and two RLC soldiers were selected for the Army Alpine Team!

Alpine Skiing

Competitive Alpine skiing is distinct from other sports due to its combination of speed, technical skills, and distinctive challenges posed by mountainous terrain and environmental conditions. It requires a high-level of physical fitness, it breeds strength, endurance, agility, and flexibility. It develops soldiers’ balance and coordination, while simultaneously testing their decision-making ability to make split-second decisions to choose the optimal racing line, adjust to changing snow conditions, and react to unexpected obstacles. Our athletes develop mental robustness to overcome fears, stay focused under pressure, and battle unpredictable conditions.

Beyond the obvious professional development associated with planning, organising, and conducting overseas training, team captains face complex financial planning challenges and learn to manage the significant risk associated with winter sports. In

The RLC Alpine Skiing Season 2023/24

By Capt Mark Lewis-Taylor RLC Alpine Secretary

doing so, their understanding of their primary roles and conducting an estimate inherently improve. Alpine skiing requires an in-depth understanding of equipment, maintenance, tuning, edge and pressure control, body positioning, course analysis, and tactics. As such, it requires a combination of understanding theory, applying technical knowledge, and learning to adapt to the environment and circumstances.

Alpine skiing, especially in a competitive setting, involves facing

challenges and setbacks. Not only do soldiers developed resilience, but they are also forced to learn to bounce back from disappointments and persevere in the face of adversity. Competitive Alpine skiing demands discipline in training, technique, and overall preparation. Likewise, it emphasises fair play, respect for opponents, adhering to extensive rules and regulations, and general sportsmanship.

Pre-season

The season commenced in September 2023 with Ex NOVICE RACER, a bespoke training camp for 25 Training Regt RLC, introducing Phase 2 ITTTs to a new sport, and giving them a brief insight into what the Field Army has to offer. Under UNIQ Snowsports instructors, our civilian ski coaching partners, it gave 20 novices (individuals who have never skied before) the opportunity to learn the basics of Alpine skiing and identify future talent at grassroots level. Consequently, ten were selected to deploy on Ex AKB in Norway for a further three weeks of training and compete at the RLC Alpine Championships. We aim to expand this training camp across the RLC to introduce more novices

across the Corps to the world of Alpine skiing.

Ex ALPINE KNEES BEND 23

(17 Nov – 11 Dec 23)

Now in its 14th year, Ex AKB, the RLC Alpine Race Training Camp, was again held in Norway with instruction provided by UNIQ Snowsports race coaches and military instructors from across The RLC. It took place this year in two phases, starting at SNØ Oslo, an excellent indoor facility that allows consistent snow conditions, fast turnaround, and a brilliant environment to get your ‘ski legs’ back, before moving to SkiStar Hemsedal, one of Norway’s best ski resorts.

Ex AKB deployed 123 RLC soldiers and officers from 16 Regular and 6 Reserve units, ranging from novice skiers through to Army athletes. The exercise included 19 females (an all-time record for Ex AKB), 31 novices (including 10 ITTTs from 25 RLC) and 16 Juniors (aged U21). The cold conditions and perfect snow enabled the athletes to train in three disciplines: Slalom, Giant Slalom and Super G. They had almost sole use of the training pistes for the duration of the camp which, coupled with the small group sizes, allowed for exceptional training and enabled some excellent progress throughout the camp. This year we also exploited some additional training opportunities by running night slalom training under the floodlights and training with local Norwegian ski racers, giving the RLC athletes more time to finesse their technique. The training camp culminated in the UNIQ x RLC Dual Slalom which saw mixed ability

teams of eight race in an adrenaline fuelled, highly competitive, head-tohead environment.

RLC Alpine

Championships (12 – 18 Dec 23)

All 123 racers competed in the RLC Alpine Championships in three different races: Slalom, Giant Slalom, and Super G. Each race had both an individual and team element with individual prizes for Men, Women, Reserve, Veteran, Junior, and Novice.

The first championship race was the Slalom, the most technical discipline that sees the racers complete short turns using their hand and shin guards to ‘slap’ the plastic turning gates as they made their way down the hill. Often the most exciting race to watch with a number of slips, trips and falls and also the most physically demanding – think a non-stop, full body HIIT workout combined with inch-perfect ski turns for up to two minutes at high altitude! The second championship race was the Giant Slalom, the purest of the skiing disciplines, which sees athletes challenged in their endurance, technique, physicality, and power. 30 gates, 280m vertical

drop, this event will test the racers’ ability on steeper and flatter sections and of course produce the best ‘edge angle’ for the allimportant action photos! The final championship race saw the blueribbon event – the Super G. This saw the racers strap on their long skis (up to 210cm!) over a 2.4km course, hitting speeds of up to 60mph! This really challenges the racers’ courage, strength, and endurance. It also requires a technical delegate, provided by Maj Lloyd Diprose RLC, to ensure the safety for the athletes and hill team. Albeit not a championship race, but certainly one in the pipeline for next season, the RLC Alpine Championships finished with the RLC Dual Slalom – a cross between Slalom and Giant Slalom with the added competition of having a relay element; two teams, head-to-head, first team complete at the bottom wins!

We thanked the Corps Colonel and Corps Sergeant Major for joining us, who were able to witness first hand some excellent racing and present the awards. Congratulations to 9 Regt RLC for winning the overall team competition, and SSgt Jackson and

Lt King (both 9 Regt) for winning the Men’s and Women’s competitions. A full list of results can be found on our Instagram page.

Qualifying Championships and Army Alpine Championships (7-17 Jan/18 – 27 Jan 24)

The two qualifying championships, known as Ex SPARTAN HIKE (SH) and Ex PIPEDOWN (PD), run concurrently in Serre Chevalier and Les Contamines, France. This year The RLC entered ten teams (nine unit teams and an RLC Ladies team) across both competitions. Each competition runs six championship races: two Slalom, two Giant Slalom, one Super G and one Downhill. At Ex SH, congratulations to 6 Regt and 1 Regt for taking first and second in the Giant Slalom and Slalom respectively, and 1 Regt placing second in the Giant Slalom. Individual congratulations to Cpl Russell, LCpl Riddell (both 6 Regt) and LCpl Percival (23 Engr) for taking various podium positions. Over at Ex PD, congratulations to 9 Regt RLC for winning the Giant Slalom, Slalom and overall unit, and to Lt King (9 Regt) for her various podium finishes!

At the conclusion of the two qualifying championships, teams and individuals are selected to go forward to compete at the Army Championships, Ex LION’S CHALLENGE in Serre Chevalier, where they face longer and tougher courses. This year, 1 Regt, 6 Regt, 9 Regt and 13 AASP Regt all qualified through their assured performances at the Qualifying Championships. Of note, this was the first year ever that 13 AASP Regt made it past the Qualifying Championships. The Army Championships saw continued success in team and individual competitions with 6 Regt winning the Slalom and Downhill, 9 Regt winning the Giant Slalom with 13 AAASP placing third in the Slalom. Individually, LCpl Riddell (6 Regt) and LCpl Percival (23 Engr) scored a host of podium places. Ultimately, 6 Regt RLC were crowned the Army Alpine Champions, and, in conjunction with the 6 Regt Nordic Team, were crowned the Princess Marina Trophy Champions! Huge congratulations also go to 13 AASP

Regt for placing third in the Princess Marina.

Inter-Services Snow Sports Championships

Due to their results at Ex LION’S CHALLENGE, Cpl Russell (6 Regt RLC) and LCpl Percival (23 Engr Regt) were both selected to compete for the Mens and Ladies Army Alpine Ski Teams. This saw the very best of the Army compete against the RN and RAF. LCpl Percival’s various podium positions boosted the Ladies Army Alpine Ski Team to become the Inter Service Ladies Team Champions! She was later selected to compete for the UKAF Alpine Ski Team at the British Championships later this year in Tignes, France.

Look Forward

The RLC Alpine Committee has already started planning for the

2024/25 season. If you have already skied before and want to do some more or have never skied and want to learn a new sport, then please get in touch with your Unit Alpine Skiing Officer to register your interest. This year we aim to reserve some spaces for individuals who come from minor units or are serving outside RLC units, and more females, juniors, and skiers from across the ability range to join us next year. If you want to know more, please get in touch with Capt Mark Lewis-Taylor, the RLC Alpine Secretary, via MODNet. Also, follow the RLC Alpine Instagram pages: @rlc_winter_sports and @rlc_alpine to be the first to know about dates and what’s in store next season. We thank all of our sponsors for their unerring support and look forward to working together in future seasons.

The RLC Foundation continues to go from strength to strength, developing an ever-expanding network of links to the commercial and academic logistic communities. The Foundation's core aim is: ‘To promote professional development in the Corps through engagement with industry and academia’ – This remains at the heart of all that we do.

The RLC Foundation Awards Dinner Night

On 29 Nov 23 the RLC Foundation Awards Dinner Night was held at the Combined Mess, Worthy Down. We were delighted to welcome the senior logisticians from the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, VAdm Andy Kyte CB and AVM Richard Hill, both honorary members of the Foundation. Congratulations to all winners, and a big thank you to our generous sponsors.

The RLC Foundation

5 RLC Foundation Junior Initiative Award sponsored by Pearson TQ - Cpl Luke Hester, 11 EOD&S Regt RLC

5 RLC Foundation Apprentice of the Year Award sponsored by World Fuel Services - Pte Jack Epps, 9 Regt RLC

5 RLC Foundation Sustainability Recognition Award sponsored by Unipart Logistics UK - 20 Tpt Sqn RLC

8 Q&A session Brig M Caldicott CBE and Brig L Daley

RLC Foundation Award Winners:

5 RLC Foundation Mentoring Support Award sponsored by TVS Supply Chain SolutionsSgt Martyn York, 29 Regt RLC

5 RLC Foundation Industry Professional Development Award sponsored by Squarcle –DHL Supply Chain

5 RLC Foundation Regional Partnership Award sponsored by PA Consulting - GXO Logistics and 158 Regt RLC

5 RLC Foundation Award for Best Professional Article in the Review Magazine sponsored by Kuehne & Nagel - Maj Andrew Cox, Army HQ, Andover

5 RLC Foundation Thought Leadership Award sponsored by Leidos - Unipart Logistics

Conductor's Coin winners – To reward a soldier outside of the official Honours and Awards list for work 'over and above' that which is expected within their trade:

5 Driver - Cpl F Oddy, 6 Regt RLC

5 Movement Controller - Cpl C Roberts, 29 Regt RLC

5 Postal & Courier Operator - Pte N Danso-Dapaah, 29 Regt RLC

5 Driver Communications Specialist - LCpl S Salisbury, 7 REME

5 Driver Air Despatcher - LCpl D Bright, 13 AAS Regt RLC

5 Chef - Pte L Menzies, 4th Bn The Royal Regiment of Scotland

The Inaugural Defence Support Training and Transformation Conference

On Thursday 15 Feb 24 the Defence College of Support (formerly DCLPA) and Defence Support Logistics Transformation delivered the inaugural Defence Support Training and Transformation Conference at Worthy Down. This event was jointly sponsored by the RLC Foundation and Babcock International.

The event consisted of a day of presentations followed by a visit to the RLC Museum, culminating with a much-needed curry supper. We must thank all those who presented throughout the day but especially to our Foundation members: Babcock International, Unipart UK, Pearson TQ and Squarcle who all gave up their valuable time to join us providing some very interesting insights to their own unique role and challenges in the global market from logistics, data analysis, strategies and new emerging threats to industry. The day was drawn to its conclusion with an update and the thoughts from Chief of Defence Logistics and Support (CDLS) VAdm Andy Kyte CB.

Review article winners

Congratulations to the 2024 RLC Foundation Review article prize winners, chosen by an independent assessment panel.

5 Best Article - Maj Colin Taylor RLC, DE&S Abbey Wood - £200

5 History Category - Maj Colin Taylor RLC, DE&S Abbey Wood - £150

5 General Interest CategoryLt Bethan Lambe RAMC, 1 Med Regt - £150

5 Operations & TrainingMaj Nicole Evans RLC, Jt Sp Enabling Comd - £150

5 Personal & Professional Development CategoryMaj Leon Berry AGC, RHQ AGC - £150

5 Special Merit AwardCapt Simon Smith RLC, 10 QOGLR - £100

8 Apprentice of the Year, Pte J Epps and Award Sponsor Col (Retd) C Francis CBE, World Fuel Services

8 Conductor Coin Winner Cpl C Roberts and Maj J Starling

It is difficult in only a few words to accurately describe the scale, importance and immense contribution that the forebears of The Royal Logistic Corps played, in support of the D-Day landings of 1944. The Royal Army Service Corps (RASC) and Royal Army Ordnance Corps (RAOC) secretly stockpiled vast quantities of supplies, transporting them to France despite hostile weather and intense opposition.

Army Catering Corps cooks of the 22nd (Independent) Parachute Company, were amongst the first British troops to land on D-Day, dropping in at dawn behind enemy lines. Other cooks arrived by landing craft and often under fire, provided hot meals for the units fighting to clear the beachheads.

13 Pioneer companies landed on D-Day itself, with 10 more landing the following day and the Pioneers handled over 80,000 tons of ammunition during the first 10 days of the landings.

The supply of petrol was vital to the landing’s success. RASC and Pioneer Companies were involved in laying the Pipeline Under The Ocean (PLUTO) to supply petrol directly to France. RAOC Ordnance

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

Logistic Support to the D-Day Landings

8 The Pipe Line Under The Ocean initially made landfall near to the port of Cherbourg to the north of the D-Day beaches. As Allied Forces advanced into northern France liberating the channel ports, a second pipeline came ashore near Calais

Beach Detachments, with special boxes weighing less than 100lb each, supplied troops on the beaches with ammunition and other essential stores. Following the Allied breakout from the D-Day landings’ beachheads and subsequent advance through France up to the Low Countries, the airborne troops at Arnhem, fighting behind enemy lines, were kept supplied by RASC air despatch crews, who dropped vital supplies to the besieged force.

The bravery, resilience and determination of these logistic soldiers helped 150,000 allied troops go ashore on the first day of these landings, with thousands more arriving each subsequent day after that. Operation OVERLORD eventually led to the unconditional German surrender on 7th May 1945; a victory made possible by the support provided to the fighting echelons by military logisticians.

8 The RASC had squadrons equipped with the General Motors DUKW amphibious vehicle, which was used to great effect during the D-Day landings

8 British Pioneers lay trackway on Sword beach so heavy vehicles can bring ashore thousands of tons of ammunition

2 (CS) Squadron

1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

BICESTER

CO: Lt Col L Butler MBE • Adjt: Capt E Bevan • RSM: WO1 S Filmer

2 (CS) Sqn deployed on Ex IRON CYCLONE as a part of the 1 Regiment RLC CSS Gp to Sennelager between 27 Sep 23 –15 Dec 23 to conduct Mission Ready Training prior to deployment on Op CABRIT (E) 14 in Mar 24. The exercise reinforced the importance of Combined Arms Manoeuvre and integrated training. The CSS Gp formed a BSG (-), with 2nd Log, 2nd Line Med and 3rd Line ES capabilities.

The Sqn also featured prominently within the Regt’s Nordic ski team. A novice team attended the RLC championships in Obertilliach and ended its season with a strong performance at the Divisional Championships.

Since the start of the year the Sqn has been focused on conducting pre-deployment training for Op CABRIT(E).

12 (CS) Squadron

12 (CS) Sqn turned its attention to Op INTERLINK with predeployment training commencing after Christmas leave. The primary activity was Ex FULLY LOADED MEERKAT, a two-week JTR and urban warfare package at Longmoor. The package, which doubled as the Regimental PDT for CABRIT and INTERLINK saw almost 100 personnel complete JTRs 1 to 10 in readiness for their subsequent deployments. The highlight was the four-day urban warfare package, which progressed from room clearances to a deliberate company attack to clear a full street.

The Sqn featured prominently within the Regt’s Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL team. The team achieved a bronze medal, and everyone is tremendously proud of all those involved. The Sqn also won the Regt’s Cross-Country race, ensuring the CO’s shield was awarded to 12 (CS) Sqn.

The Sqn is now busy operating Logistic Enabling Nodes across Eastern Europe, facilitating the

23 (GS) Squadron

Following Op CABRIT 12, the start of 2024 has focused on supporting both 2 and 12 Sqns with concurrent operational deployments to Eastern Europe. Whilst Op INTERLINK has highlighted the importance of a robust supply chain in modern warfare, it was Stores Troop’s deployment on Ex IRON CYCLONE that really showcased how demanding this can be. The “front-line” is no longer clear cut; the use of drones has the potential to make every building or warehouse a target.

The Sqn has also focused on delivering the 20th ABCT Operational Shooting Competition, hosting a visiting French Officer, and its own BCS and StA training; the delivery of several battle lessons on Logistic Information Systems was especially well received by 20th ABCT HQ. On the sporting front, the Sqn remains

committed to Boxing, Shooting, and Football; and is hopeful for some AT in the new financial year.

74 (HQ) Squadron

Members of 74 Sqn have been integral in the support of various exercises and overseas operations including ongoing commitments to Op CABRIT and Op INTERLINK. December saw most of the Sqn deploy to Germany in support Ex IRON CYCLONE 23. Additionally, as the new year set in, the Regimental Training Wing under the supervision of Sgt Wanem, conducted SA K (18) qualifications to qualify additional static range safety supervisors which will be crucial for the Regt’s organisation of the upcoming BOSC. January saw Comms Troop setting up a deployed Mobile HQ to be used for future ABCT Rear and Regimental HQ deployments throughout 2024. The layout was well received by members of the Regiment as well as by the Bde Comd on a recent visit.

Success has come in waves in the sporting arena. Pte Flannery (Comms Troop) finished first in the Army Alpine skiing competition. Pte King (Comms Tp) successfully represented the Army first team in Rugby Union in a game vs Sweden and Sgt Coombs (also Comms Tp) represented the Army Rugby League first team in the 2024 Challenge Cup.

delivery of military aid to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

8 1 RLC Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL team achieving bronze medal

8 Pte Flannery representing the RLC in Alpine Skiing

4 (CS) Sqn

4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON

CO: Lt Col M Brown • Adjt: Capt C Nottage

• RSM: WO1 J Brackenbury

Following a busy year filled with overseas exercises, 4 CS Sqn has transitioned quickly from the Christmas break to preparing for Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE 24. Since return, the Sqn has been working tirelessly on prerequisites for the deployment such as equipment preparation, training, and G1 deployability. The Sqn has exploited opportunities to train and qualify the troops by running a GPMG Cadre, Driver Conversion Training as well as Armed Police Integration training in support of Op TEMPERER. Ahead of Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE 24, the Sqn is deploying on Ex BLACK EAGLE, a Regimental exercise to conduct dispersed Close Support Logistic training, focused around SPTA. On the sporting front, individuals from the Sqn have managed to feature on Alpine and Nordic Skiing Championships as well as the Army Rugby league.

33 (GS) Sqn

33 GS Sqn has had a busy few months. Following a period of dispersion on numerous operations such as Op INTERLINK and Op CABRIT; 33 GS Sqn has had soldiers deployed on, Ex IRON CYCLONE, Ex IRON TITAN and Ex ORION in France. The culmination of the last quarter was a squadron deployment on Ex BEAVER-ONSEA, which focused on CT(A) and CT(B) training. Working up from basic infantry skills, the Sqn transitioned to a period of trade craft, honing its ability to travel long distances, utilise FLRT and reverting to manual accounting processes. All whilst operating in a hostile environment dealing with threats such as IEDs, complex attacks, IDPs and UAS. The Sqn performed exceptionally ahead of its deployment on Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE 24.

60 (CS) Sqn

November 23 saw 60 CS Sqn deploy on Ex DISMOUNTED

a CT(A) exercise run in a complex urban/rural interface conducting operations during the day and night. Deployment saw the revision of basic soldiering at section level before progressing into the urban terrain. While the troops enjoyed trading a wood block for one of Caerwent’s many FOBs, the bitterness of the Welsh elements, paired with keen DS, meant the troops were put through their paces. Their newfound confidence resulted in the completion of two nighttime Tplevel Heli-insertion raids, providing a unique platform for the soldiers to use their skills to successfully Raid, Clear and Exploit known enemy positions under the cover of darkness. Hungry for more and armed with new intelligence, the exercise culminated in a Tp+ Deliberate Attack that saw the troops coordinate and control fires and operate alongside FF Elms. All of the troops thoroughly enjoyed the variety of challenges the exercise entailed.

75 (HQ) Sqn

Since returning from deployment on Op INTERLINK, 75 HQ Sqn has been at the heart of preparations for 2024. 75 Sqn conducted CT(B) training that saw Comms Tp deploy into the field where they conducted low level skills and drills and experimentation with cam and concealment. This will be key for the upcoming deployment on Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE 24. For this

the Sqn has focused on renewing ITR competency and ensuring the fleet is up to the required standard. 75 HQ Sqn conducted a series of ranges and patrol days that saw SP conduct dismounted close combat drills in a tactical scenario. In the background of the ongoing work towards Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE 24, 75 HQ Sqn has continued to have SP deployed on a plethora of overseas taskings.

RHQ

RHQ recently undertook a deployment on Ex ACES HIGH 23, assuming the role of CSS Gp HQ for the Lead Armoured BCT during a command post exercise at Sennelager. This meticulous preparation serves as a crucial step for its forthcoming participation in Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE 24, an integral component of the broader Op LINOTYPER 24 initiative. The deployment demonstrates the unit's commitment to readiness and future operational commitments.

SHROOM,

8 Members of 4 Sqn conducted GPMG trg

8 75 Sqn during Ex ACES HIGH 23

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

DISHFORTH

CO: Lt Col J Lockett • Adjt: Capt JP Oliver • RSM: WO1 S Lucas MBE

As at 1 Jan 24, 6 Regiment RLC assumed its role as the logistic component for NATOs Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (Land) (VJTF(L)). Following a significant training and preparation period, the Regt deployed on Op LINOTYPER to prove its ability to meet the diverse challenges this role requires of us. It started with Ex BRILLIANT JUMP in February which saw a composite logistic squadron and the RHQ deploy from the UK to Germany and then march across Europe into Poland to conduct multinational integration training as part of Op LINOTYPER. The Regt was responsible for sustaining a diverse, muilti-capbadge combined arms force of over 1,500 Service Personnel as well as supporting the UK’s multi-national allies. During this phase the Regt conducted logistic integration training with Spanish and Polish allies, looking at similarities and differences in equipment, tactics, techniques and procedures as well as honing our own skills. The Regt also took the time to develop its knowledge of end-to-end supply chain management, working closely with

10QOGLR which provided third line support and tested white fleet to green fleet materiel distribution to expand the ability to operate at reach. Ex POLISH DRAGON 24 was the second part of the deployment, where the Regt and other British Units fell under a Polish higher command structure to project force across Poland to show just how credible the VJTF(L) really is. This involved a wide wet gap crossing over the river Vistula as well as supporting a multi-national live fire exercise phase. In total, the Regt helped sustain a force that projected over 2,500km across Europe and then successfully redeployed from Poland to the UK ready to redeploy anywhere in the

world within five days. A significant feat of logistic management and supported well by partner logistic regiments deployed on Op LINOTYPER.

With a proportion of Regt deployed, it remained the responsibility of those within the UK to maintain and enhance their own readiness for the VJTF(L). This involved deployment on an interesting and challenging urban operations training package to ensure all ranks and sub-units can all protect themselves and defeat threats within this complex terrain and operating environment. An enjoyable exercise, it marked a notable increase in learning lessons from an active land war in Europe to enhance the Regt’s capability should it be called upon to deploy. Looking ahead, the Regt remains focused on ensuring it is ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. The Regt is beginning preparations for an exciting Ex WESSEX STORM in June that will see the Regt support two Battlegroups training across Salisbury Plain and the wider UK. All of this is to ensure the Regt remains as prepared as possible to meet threats VJTF(L) may face.

8 Members of the Regiment and wider VJTF(L) forces receive a brief from Comd VJTF(L) in Poland

7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

ABINGDON

CO: Lt Col JC Corbett MBE • Adjt: Capt B Wray • RSM: WO1 G Hardy

The last few months have seen 7 Regiment RLC heavily involved in operations and exercises both at home and overseas. The ongoing commitments have taken a huge amount of effort from everyone in the unit and reflect the exceptional capabilities of its personnel, and the brilliant support of their families.

9 Sqn has now firmly settled in Dalton Barracks. Much of the Sqn was deployed on Ex HARAKA STORM 3/23 in support of the 1 Grenadier Guards Battlegroup. Owing to the harsh and surprisingly wet conditions, the exercise was incredibly challenging. Providing 2nd Line support to the BG and Task Force Hannibal (TFH), troops from across the Regt remained in the field for the duration of the three-week exercise. 7 Regt had the opportunity to trial previously unused validation criteria, which will be utilised in future exercises to test the CSS Gp’s operational capability. SP from 68 Sqn also trialled the Field Supply Platform (FSP) to determine its effectiveness in the field. The ground-breaking software digitalises the receipting and demand processes. The efforts of the Soldiers in the field were complimented by fantastic AT packages, which included white water rafting, waterfall abseiling and mountain biking.

More broadly, 7 Regt continued operational commitment to supporting Ukraine has seen the majority of 68 Sqn’s soldiers deployed on Op INTERLINK, working towards Defence’s Main Effort. In various locations across Europe, soldiers have experienced temperatures ranging from 35 to21 degrees and a busy workload. Despite the climatic challenges, the soldiers have continued to operate at the highest level. Notable highlights included swimming in glacial lakes and a memorable Christmas day, which saw the troops being awoken with traditional gunfire. With the HOTO

period looming, 68 Sqn SP were looking forward to seeing friends and family and enjoying some welldeserved post tour leave.

17 Sqn deployed on Ex TIMBER TRUSS in support of the DSLA Troop Commanders’ Course’s final exercise. It provided a perfect opportunity for the troops to demonstrate their extensive trade knowledge and driving ability. It also provided a chance for them to show their versatility and fulfil both transport and supply capabilities during the exercise, whilst acting as a Close Support Logistic Sqn. A team from 17 Sqn also participated in Ex MUDMASTER in Scotland testing the raw skills of its drivers in particularly testing conditions.

617 Sqn has been heavily engaged with Ex BRILLIANT JUMP; a mounting exercise targeted at testing 102 OSB’s ability to mount

a variety of force elements. This will prove vital in demonstrating the UK’s ability to deploy at scale. With Op LINOTYPER on the horizon, 617’s focus switched to operating alongside Partner Nations in NATO. The lessons learned and the experience gained throughout this exercise will be of monumental importance in determining how the Regt operates in the near future.

In January eight 7 Regt SP deploy on Ex LOGISTIC BOARDER 24, the RLC’s annual snowboarding championships. The team was largely comprised of novices who had never touched a snowboard. Despite their inexperience, the boarders performed exceptionally and were the top novice slalom team in the competition.

The Regt now looks forward to a heavily committed 2024, with both UK Standby Battalion and NATO readiness tasks, and a lengthy Ex WESSEX STORM.

8 White water rafting on HARAKA STORM 2/24

8 17 Sqn deployed on Ex TIMBER TRUSS

8 17 Sqn performing self-recovery on Ex TIMBER TRUSS

9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

HULLAVINGTON

CO: Lt Col A Bhundia • Adjt: Capt C Bevan • RSM: WO1 C Blackburn

9 Regiment RLC has continued to conduct adventurous training and excel across the sporting spectrum despite another busy period of operations, exercises and community engagement.

Op

CHAMBRAY

94 Sqn QOGLR deployed on Op CHAMBRAY on 14 Oct 23. 14 highly experienced LSS personnel deployed RAF Akrotiri (Cyprus) to establish a Log RV for the Theatre Enabling Group. One of the major responsibilities of this team was to track, trace and receive millions of pounds worth of operationally vital pieces of kit and equipment for 45 Cdo RM, 2 RGR and 15 Sqn QOGLR. Additionally, the team also had the crucial responsibility of delivering humanitarian aid to the conflict zone.

Op

LINOTYPER

94 Sqn QOGLR and 84 MSS Sqn deployed to Germany for Op LINOTYPER, the largest NATO exercise since 1984. Whilst deployed on Op LINOTYPER, 94 Sqn operated within the JSA (Joint Support Area), which comprises of the Ammo Troop, Log RV Troop, and Mat Troop.

Two five-person dets from 84 MSS Sqn provided critical medical supply capabilities and support the deployed field hospital. This tested the Sqn’s SP, ensuring they were current and competent to fulfil this essential role. It was an exciting opportunity to develop doctrine, and work alongside NATO partners as well both RAMC and RLC colleagues.

21 General Transport Squadron

Following the disbandment of 3 Regt RLC, Jul 23 saw the formation of 21 GT Sqn within 9 Regt. The Sqn was very much focused around the Logistic Supply Specialist (LSS) trade where the Sqn maintained the second-line Custodial Account for 20 Armoured Infantry Brigade and of note, it played a key role on Op CABRIT 7, 9 and 10.

As a GT Sqn, new challenges have been faced with the Sqn now focused on the Driver trade. In late 2023 the Sqn deployed to Germany on Ex AUSTERE SHIELD and deployed as a Fuel and General Transport Sqn on Op LINOTYPER, where it was responsible for long distance road moves across Europe, providing vital logistic enabling and sustainment support.

During both of 21 GT Sqn’s deployments to Germany, 21 Sqn’s drivers faced the enduring task of establishing and sustaining the Joint Support Areas (JSA) and Divisional Support Areas (DSA). This involved driving ISO containers and other equipment hundreds of kilometres, giving commanders the hefty task of managing driver’s hours correctly, with the help of Convoy Support Centres (CSCs). The CSCs provided a welcome resting point for both 21 Sqn and deploying 7 Bde drivers, to fuel their vehicles in a safe and secure environment, perform vehicle maintenance and repairs with the REME Light Aid Detachment.

Ex PANTHERS ROCK

In the shadow of the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, 9 Regt recently embarked on an unforgettable journey into the world of urban tunnel warfare, a Battlefield Study and an

Adventurous Training CPD Exped. SP ventured deep into the intricate tunnels of Gibraltar, honing their skills in navigating these labyrinthine passages. From tunnel construction to hidden chambers, 9 Regt SP learned the art of subterranean combat.

Against the stunning backdrop of Gibraltar's cliffs, there was also the opportunity to do paddle boarding and cliff jumping, enhancing physical and mental resilience. Conquering challenging terrains were just some of the adrenalinepumping activities.

The Gibraltar government kindly led the team through historical battlefields, sharing insights into the strategic significance of Gibraltar.

8 Under the shadow of ‘The Rock’

8 Cliff jumping during Ex PANTHERS ROCK

10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment

ALDERSHOT

COMMANDER: Lt Col O Nyman • Adjt: Capt S Smith • RSM: WO1 L Sunuwar

Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER

The majority of 10 QOGLR personnel have been deployed at sites in both Germany and Poland, contributing to Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER; and providing direct support to 7 LMBCT as it moved across Europe. 10 QOGLR personnel established themselves in two divisional support areas (DSAs), one in Germany, the other in Poland, in addition to two convoy support centres and an additional logistic node further east in Poland. The deployment provided opportunity for deployed personnel to really practice their trades. The Regt’s drivers have gained valuable experience on the European road network and tested a new white fleet concept to transport stores at scale (Megalifta self-loading truck capable of holding up to 2 x 20ft ISO containers or 1 x 40ft ISO container). The Regiment’s petroleum operators constructed and operated PBFIs within both DSAs. The Regt’s suppliers have established and maintained a lengthy supply chain. The Regt’s chefs provided hot food for circa 450 people daily.

Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL

The Regt committed a team on Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL in October 2023. Only one team member had completed the arduous patrol competition before. The event started well with all scoring 100% on the kit check. By 0930hrs, the team was off and had begun the 60km patrol carrying approximately 40kg in weight. Of the actions conducted, the tactical river crossing really stood out. Both riverbanks had turned to mud due to preceding footfall, analogous to a slip-and-slide back into the river. Fortunately, the team maintained its footing. Upon finishing the patrol competition, the 10 QOGLR team was welcomed back to civilisation in classic style with Gurkha messing. The 10 QOGLR team gained the highly coveted

gold medals, well-earned and symbolic of the team’s exceptional performance.

Insight from the Survival Nepali Language Course

From September to December 2023, two officers from 10 QOGLR undertook the Survival Nepali Language Course in Pokhara, Nepal. The course offers students an opportunity to study the Nepali language under the tutelage of experienced Gurkha SNCOs, including the QOGLR’s own Sgt Suman Gurung.

While a large portion of the course takes place in the classrooms, students receive ample

opportunity to explore the country and immerse themselves in allwalks of Nepali life. Towards the middle of the course, students are attached to an Area Welfare Centre (AWC) for a week, where they can test their new-found Nepali language skills to communicate with Gurkha pensioners and learn about the issues facing the local area. The course is followed by a Duty Trek, a period of two weeks where students travel on-foot, visiting pensioners, widows and rural school children.

A highlight of the course is Ex UKALI ORALI, more commonly understood as the Doko Race. All officers on the course finish the race with a much greater appreciation of the high demands of the Gurkha selection process. Students on the September course were very lucky to celebrate both Dashain and Tihar in Nepal.

The course is enormously beneficial to junior officers in the Brigade of Gurkhas. Above all else, being able to connect with Gurkha soldiers when they talk of their home country is instrumental to building lasting relationships that enable operational effectiveness.

8 SNLC students meeting a family in Gorkha during Duty Trek

8 SNLC student crossing the line of the famous Doko Race

11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Regiment RLC

DIDCOT

CO: Lt Col R Swan • Adjt: Capt R C Oxborough-Clarke • RSM: WO1 W Ball

With the increased frequency of exercises and operations, 11 EOD & Search Regiment RLC has seen a significant increase in requests over the last quarter to provide its bespoke ammunition technical support, both in the UK and globally. This increased demand is on top of the daily MACA EOD and Op TAPESTRY commitments, which has seen over 380 conventional munition disposals and 80 IED taskings to date across the UK.

The Regt has 36 SP at readiness to react in support of Field Army at any given time. Within Q1 of 2024 the Regt has already provided support to 29 UK exercises, 16 overseas exercises, as well as deploying 20 SP on an operational footing. This large demand of workforce ensures that all units can effectively and efficiently train to the highest standard, safely achieving the most out of the ammunition at their disposal.

Op FOSTER – The Plymouth air dropped weapon incident

On 20 Feb 24, whilst digging foundations in his daughter’s garden in Plymouth, her father uncovered what he believed to be a buried WW2 bomb. This sparked Op FOSTER, spanning nearly five days with a multi-agency response including the Army and Navy, and resulted in one of the largest evacuations since the end of WW2.

The Police were called to Keyham, Plymouth to investigate the find, and after liaison with the Joint

Service EOD Operations Centre (JSEODOC), a Royal Navy EOD team based in Plymouth were tasked to the scene. They identified the bomb as a German ‘Sprengbombe Cylindrisch’ SC500 Air Dropped Weapon (ADW) containing 221kg of high explosives, which posed a significant risk to life and property. These bombs were dropped in their thousands during WW2, some of which did not detonate and are still present in the ground today, just waiting to be unearthed.

Requested through the JSEODOC, specialist assets were requested including mitigation from 33 Engr Regt; mapping from 42 Engr Geo; an ADW team from 621 EOD Sqn; and a JRLO to link the multitude of civilian organisations together, including the Police, Fire, Ambulance, Urban Search and Rescue, and the local council.

MACA Tp, 33 Engr Regt, the specialists in mitigation, were tasked with building HESCO BASTION works to protect the surrounding houses. Around 80 tonnes of sand were used to shield the surrounding properties, with MACA Tp working through the night to ensure sufficient mitigation was in place.

Concurrently, the ADW team worked to gain information on the two transverse fuses to enable identification of the best course of action to render the bomb safe. This was a painstaking process including referencing historical pamphlets and conducting radiography to further expose the munition and ensure there were no anti-handling issues.

This key detail allowed the EOD team to have confidence to move the bomb through the centre of Plymouth to a slip way to enable destruction at sea, thus preventing damage to property. However, further cordon and evacuation would be necessary to keep the public safe during transport to the sea. This involved implementing a 300m exclusion zone around the 1.8-mile route and evacuating 10,300 residents – no easy task but the emergency services did a stellar job managing this problem.

At 1730hrs on 23 Feb the cordon was lifted, and the public were able to return to their homes. The bomb was safely destroyed by demolition at 2151hrs on the 23 Feb ’24 around two miles off the coast in the English Channel by EOD Operators from the Royal Navy.

8 The German SC500 bomb in situ

8 The SC500 after transport by road to Torpoint Ferry

8 Radiography of the bomb being conducted in situ

8 33 Engr Regt created the HESCO BASTION mitigation system

13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER

CO: Lt Col R Edwards • Adjt: Capt K Smith • RSM: WO1 D Bunn

Exercise BLACK CHARIOT

In February 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC deployed on Ex BLACK CHARIOT; a regimental exercise designed to test soldiers in their fundamental trade skills. The exercise was spread across the North of England and Southwest Scotland, with troops training on multiple military training areas alongside Troops on Public Land (TOPL) locations. These included Stranraer Port, Carlisle and Lake District Airport, Ennerdale Water Treatment Plant, Galloway Forest, RAF Spadeadam, Otterburn and Driffield. Throughout the two-week deployment, sub-units developed their trade skills in a tactical environment with arduous terrain and weather conditions; focussing on dispersal of troops and moving every 48 hours in order to remain agile.

Three sub-units from across the Regt were deployed, 15 Air Assault Support Sqn (QOGLR), 82 Air Assault Support Sqn and 8 (Parachute) Field Coy REME, along with the Regimental Headquarters and a large EXCON team. 87 vehicles from across the Regt’s fleet were involved in the exercise, covering a total distance of 149,805km conducting DPs, squadron moves, practicing convoy drills and vehicle recovery serials. An impressive quantity of materiel was transported throughout the exercise with a total of 168T moved on pallets over the two-week period.

Op UNDERHILL – Humanitarian Aid to Gaza

Personnel from 47 AD Sqn have been deployed on Op UNDERHILL since March 2024. As part of a multinational coalition consisting of the Jordanians, US, French, Germans, Dutch and other nations, the Sqn has been instrumental to delivering vital humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people.

Notably, to coincide with Eid alFitr marking the end of Ramadan, 47 AD Sqn and RAF personnel took part in the largest

international airdrop into Gaza, collectively delivering hundreds of tonnes of baby formula, flour, rice, cooking oil, tinned food and water in a single day as the culmination of careful planning alongside international partners to ensure the complex mission could be conducted safely and effectively.

Corps Operational Shooting Competition

The Regimental Shooting Team has had an excellent start to the 2024 Operational Shooting Season. They competed in the recent Corps OSC against teams from across the RLC, REME, RE and AGC. Overall, the team came second after a closely fought tie-breaker and won multiple team shoots on the day. Sgt Arshu was the best overall shot and best RLC shot, with LCpl Gale winning the best REME shot on the day. Following its success on the day, the team has now qualified for the Defence OSC in Bisley later this year.

Sporting Successes

The Regimental Boxing Team entered the Army Major Unit Championships and lost in the quarter finals to 1st Battalion, the

8

Royal Yorkshire Regiment resulting in a close fought result of 5-4. The Cross-Country team won the Army XC Championships in January, and had multiple runners selected to represent the Army in their age categories. Additionally, the team came second at the Commando Speed March event at Spean Bridge and won the Cyprus Challenge running competition. In Football the team reached the Army Cup Semi Finals, the best result the Regimental team has ever achieved.

The Regimental Alpine and Nordic Ski Teams had successes throughout the 23/24 season. 13 Air Assault Support Regiment was the combined Nordic and Alpine winner at Ski RLC and the female team also came first. Both male and female Nordic teams and the Alpine team achieved multiple successes at the Divisional and Army Championships too. The Regt continues to achieve winning results in a variety of volleyball, squash, basketball, BAWF and snowboarding competitions.

The 13 AASR team came second at the Commando Speed March event at Spean Bridge

17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTHAMPTON

CO: Lt Col TD Wilcox • Adjt: Capt E Jordan • RSM: WO1 S Chambers

Over the past five months, 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC has emerged as a cornerstone of operational readiness and effectiveness within the maritime and strategic domains. With an unparalleled commitment to Defence and a relentless pursuit of excellence, the Regt has been at the forefront of numerous operations and exercises.

51 Squadron

51 Sqn has demonstrated remarkable versatility and effectiveness in its recent operations. It has been the home Sqn for the past year, covering the Sea-Mounting Centre (SMC) and the rest of the world taskings. In mid-February, it was involved in loading hundreds of vehicles destined for Germany as part of Op LINOTYPER. The Sqn also played a pivotal role in hosting media teams during this outload, highlighting proficiency in managing diverse responsibilities. Moreover, the deployment of members from A Tp on Littoral Response Group South to deliver 87 tonnes of aid to Gaza exemplifies their dedication to humanitarian efforts. Ex KRAKEN RESET in November further solidified the Sqn’s capabilities, as it conducted fundamental military skills training with precision and effectiveness, ensuring operational readiness for future challenges.

52 Squadron

52 Sqn has fulfilled critical roles in TEG readiness and European deployments. With many European Port Task Groups (PTGs) being completed (14 between both Sqns), they have been crucial in the success of Op LINOTYPER, with the most recent being in Gdansk. This showed their capacity to fulfil complex multi-unit inloads across Europe with seamless precision and efficiency. Mexe Tp has been extremely active in recent months, contributing significantly to the humanitarian efforts supplying aid to Gaza. The Tp’s involvement in Ex

FUELS ENDEAVOUR in Germany, alongside 66 Engineer Works Group, underscored its versatility and adaptability, deploying refuelling platforms.

Vehicle Support Specialists (VSS)

The VSS have moved from 53 Sqn to being split into the two task Sqns. In addition to routine port clearance operations within the SMC, VSS teams were deployed to various countries, including Poland, Estonia, Albania, Germany, Greece, Slovakia, Canada and Oman, to conduct port clearance operations during overseas Port Task Groups. A team of VSS returned from Christmas leave early to travel to Graffenwoehr in Germany to receive vehicle familiarisation training on various US Army VAME – VAME they will be operating during Op LINOTYPER when they provide additional port clearance support to the US Army.

53 Squadron

53 Sqn deployed on Ex AUSTERE SHIELD as a Sqn HQ providing invaluable real-life support (RLS). Additionally, serving as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for maritime operations underscores the Sqn’s flexibility. Motor Transport Troops' steadfast efforts in maintaining the Regt’s extensive fleet of vehicles, has been instrumental in ensuring operational readiness and mobility.

8 17 P&M Regt’s VSS have been deployed across the globe on port clearance operations

Operational Hygiene Troop (OH) has been in high demand, serving as the Army's only regular Operation Hygiene capability. The Tp has supported numerous exercises, its most recent being Ex WESSEX STORM in support of SCOTS DG, SF Selection in Sennybridge and Ex CHAMELEON in Cyprus.

REME Workshop

The WKSP has been working tirelessly. It successfully trained of five SP as Shipwrights, which underpins the niche REME trades available at 17. Numerous SP have been deployed and recovered in support of multiple rotations of Op HIGHTIDE. Support to Op LINOTYPER highlights WKSP's significant contributions to 17. All this was done alongside completing all Level two and three repairs on 17 Regt’s fleet.

Sport

The Regt made headlines in January, winning not only the Corps and Divisional Nordic Ski Championships but also the Army Championships. A notable mention goes to WO2 Ben Woolley and LCpl Alfie Sprake, as without their coaching and guidance, this achievement would not have been possible.

25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

LECONFIELD

CO: Lt Col B Ekman • Adjt: Capt S Adamson • RSM: WO1 T Jones

Ex NORTHERN CONCENTRAITON

(RLC) 26 Feb – 03 Mar 24

150 Regiment and 25 Regiment RLC delivered the 2024 RLC Winter AT Concentration in a not so sunny Halton Training Camp (Lancaster) from 26 Feb to 03 Mar 24. The aim of the AT Concentration was to introduce novices to caving, mountaineering and mountain biking with a view to them undertaking further progression to become potential instructors in the future.

Getting out the door was no mean feat, from UAAT to JSATFA, the planning seemed like climbing Mount Everest in itself. The actual arrival of participants from all four corners was a great achievement and several AT students achieved outstanding performances throughout the week.

Opting to undertake a three-day activity in a chosen AT discipline, the students perhaps may not have considered the weather when making their choices. Following arrival of all staff and AT students, the activities began. There were some limitations with equipment, mainly mountain bikes and this required us to rebalance the groups. By day two it was decided to alternate the students through different disciplines and see which ones they enjoyed the most and challenged them. By day three all AT students were conducting an activity they really enjoyed and went for it. This pushed individual limits further and it was clear to see how much the decision to rotate

the students had paid off. 12 out of the 25 students who attended excelled in their chosen discipline and expressed a desire to further their qualifications.

Mountain biking consisted of challenging routes up and down routes in Whinlatter bike trails and finally learning about essential maintenance of mountain bikes. WO2 (RQMS) Gleaves (25 Regt) and Sgt Ford (150 Regt) delivered a super package where vertical challenges and inclement weather tested the limits of all. With great thanks to DST, 150 Regt and 6 Regt RLC for use of their mountain bikes to support this activity; it was extremely worthwhile to see an inspired group of AT students who took so much away from their participation.

The caving experiences became the most popular activity by the end of the week, perhaps due to the climate inside the caves being a lot different outside. The thrill and excitement of vertical abseiling drops, horizontal passages, waterfalls, and thrill-seeking AT

8 Whinlatter Forest provided some challenging mountain biking trails

students; they were transformed to a growth mindset to challenge and push themselves to the limits they may not have gone to previously. The Logchurn cave complex proved to be very popular and offered many challenges and was not for the feint hearted.

The low-level mountaineering activities were conducted at lower than planned levels due to the inclement weather across the peaks of the Lake District. This permitted the instructional staff to concentrate on map reading skills, pushing students to their limits by completing challenging distances and terrain. The feedback from students was positive and identified several individuals who would pursue further qualifications in this AT activity.

Overall a superb week conducted by all those in attendance, the positive student feedback comments identified at least 22 out of the 31 who took part who would like to pursue their qualifications further, on arrival into the unit. Despite a distinct lack of RLC SP volunteering to take part, the numbers were made up by ITTTs from 25 Trg Regt and a great package was put together to deliver what was expected. A welcome visit from the CO of 25 Regt saw him get involved with the caving activities which also made a huge difference to the students who attended.

8 The stormy weather limited mountaineering activities to lower levels

27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT

CO: Lt Col B Reehal • Adjt: Capt R Limbu • RSM: WO1 R Rourke

27 Regiment RLC has had a busy period supporting exercises and operations in the UK and Europe. With this as the backdrop, the Regt has also dedicated time to furthering teamwork and professional development.

Op TEAMWORK

The Regt held Op TEAMWORK Day on 7 Feb to develop soldiers’ understanding of the positive and negative attributes of being part of a team. The format of the day consisted of introducing the concept of Op TEAMWORK, which was followed by Troop Commanders delivering presentations to set the scene for group discussions on themes of teamwork. This was culminated through squadron activities ranging from sports to military museum and military cemetery visits.

Some of the key themes discussed were the two most important qualities of a good team being ‘totally professional’ and ‘sharing a common purpose’, with valued respect for others and determination to hold monthly cohesion events focussed on different cultural groups. The WOs’ & Sgt’s Mess also drew up an SNCO charter to hold themselves accountable against the parameters that they set. Several Sqns highlighted passage of communication as a continued theme although it is a very important aspect.

Whole Life Development Day –15 Feb 24

The 27 Regt Empowerment Team held a Whole Life Development

Day on Thurs 15 Feb 24 in Travers

Barracks Training Wing. The aim of the day was to raise awareness of various educational and career progression opportunities that service life can offer. It also presented a rare opportunity for various trade groups in the Regt to have an audience with their Heads of Trades for a brief on the direction of their trade as well as a Q&A session.

122 service personnel from the Regt attended the event delivered in a series of briefs by the RCMO Dept, Education Centre, Unit Padre, OC 19 Squadron and Heads of Trades from Fd Army. It was proven to be very beneficial to all ranks with regular calendar events planned to allow the RCMO and Education Centre to engage within the Regt on reporting and education. There was also discussion on opportunities through mentoring programmes based on interest groups formed through similar objectives like AT interests and Unit Padre follow-up on moral concepts with Troop rotational briefs focusing on mental resilience and readiness.

Log Planning STTT to Uganda –

By Capt Ann Hunter

In January, I deployed to Uganda as OC on a Log Planning STTT, to support the training of the Ugandan People’s Defence Force (UPDF) ahead of its deployment to Somalia later this year. The Log Planning Course team was made up of four service personnel with a variety of CSS SQEP, including REME, RLC and RAMC. We were tasked with delivering a four-week course to 50 students.

Somalia is one of the highest priority countries for HMG in Africa. Effective from 1 Apr 22, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) was launched. This will ultimately see the handover of security responsibilities to Somali security forces by the end of 2024. The ATMIS force of approximately 20,000 soldiers is currently comprised of troops drawn from Uganda, Burundi, Djibouti, Kenya, and Ethiopia. The Log Planners Course was aimed at the UPDF BG planning staff to further their Log planning capability.

Throughout the deployment, the UK-deployed personnel had great experience working with UPDF personnel and even managed to pick up a bit of Kiswahili which went down very well.

8 UPDF during a Log Planning exercise

8 7 F&GT Sqn discussing five characteristics of teamwork led by Lt Fish

29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

SOUTH CERNEY

CO: Lt Col E Sedgwick • Adjt: Capt Z Marsden • RSM: WO1 S Goldsborough

29 Regiment RLC has been busier than ever over the last quarter, with a wider focus on the lead up to Ex LINOTYPER as well as many SP deploying on Operations and Winter Sports events.

50 Squadron

50 Sqn undertook final preparations for EX STEADFAST DEFENDER 24, where the Sqn deployed in the role of Enabling Group. The training cell worked hard to ensure all involved were set for success, delivering EX DRAGON CENTURION, a three-week predeployment package with their usual aplomb.

On the sporting front, January saw Lt Bennett, Pte Coverdale and Pte Hughes deploy on Ex PIPE DOWN and Ex RUCK SACK with the Regimental Nordic Ski Team. Outstanding performances all round saw the team rack up several medals and Pte Coverdale progressing to represent The RLC at Army’s.

55 Squadron

Alongside supporting ongoing Op INTERFLEX commitments, 55 Sqn deployed on Ex CENTURION DAKOTA, an ITR and AT package at Beckingham Camp. Following this, several personnel from the Sqn represented the unit on Ex NORTHERN STRIKE as part of the winning Mixed Team. To enhance esprit de corps across the Sqn, several cohesion events have taken place, most notably a visit to the Gurkha Museum in Winchester, a Zeppelin trail across London and a JNCO Development Day at Worthy Down. In the CO’s Shield competition, the Sqn took first place in the March & Shoot and Five-aSide events whilst on the charitable front the Regt came third overall in the ABF ‘Race the World’ event, raising over £1,000 for the ABF in the process.

59 Squadron

59 Movement Control Squadron continues to operate the Joint Air

Mounting Centre, playing a crucial role in supporting training delivery for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. As a busy yet rewarding period ends, they prepare to hand over the JAMC to 69 Sqn. With this transition, the Sqn focus is now shifting to readiness, achieved through the delivery of both incamp, and field-based ITRs. This is essential for upcoming operational deployments and exercises scheduled later this year, which will provide valuable opportunities for personnel to gain valuable experience as Movement Controllers.

69 Squadron

The last months of 2023 saw 69 Sqn working as hard as ever, with well over a dozen Movement Controllers from the Sqn deploying on six different Operations across the globe. Many more soldiers also deployed on significant multinational exercises, providing essential movements support to deployed personnel and enabling key defence activity.

Simultaneously, Sqn SP have been away deep-sea diving, boxing, motor crossing, skiing, and representing the Regt and Corps in football and rugby. The Sqn is now focussing on the new challenge of running the JAMC, providing and improving a Defence-level asset for the serving community.

80 Squadron

80 Sqn has 30 pax deployed, across 12 countries, in support of operations, firm base and exercises. This sees all 80 Sqn soldiers

8 55 Sqn conducted a JNCO development day at Worthy Down

deploying at least once every 18 months whilst also supporting and backfilling UK locations, exercises and conducting training. Deployments are not restricted to the soldiers, with officers from 80 Sqn deploying within the last four months on: Op SHADER, Op CABRIT, Op ALUMINIUM, Op LAZURITE, Op LYNOTYPER and Ex LONGLOOK. When in camp 80 Sqn takes every opportunity to conduct ‘other’ activity. Pte Thebe recently organised a cohesion event into London, conducting a visit to the Royal Hospital Chelsea and the National Army Museum, and LCpl Gurung 232 conducted a visit to the Mogra Orphanage in Kenya whilst deployed. The last few months have also seen the new 80 Postal and Courier Squadron flag finally flying proudly above the Sqn lines!

8 29 Regt won the Mixed Team competition on Ex NORTHERN STRIKE

150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL,

NEWCASTLE, HARTLEPOOL, LEEDS, BRADFORD, DONCASTER, LINCOLN

CO: Lt Col H McCullough • Adjt: Capt A Ellis • RSM: WO1 P Poole

One of the highlights of 150 Regiment RLC’s training calendar is the Defence Contribution to Resilience Exercise. Held in the Army Reserve Centre in Doncaster, the weekend sees officers and soldiers conduct resilience training alongside personnel from the City of Doncaster Council, Environment Agency, and Emergency Services. Working with these partner agencies allows greater understanding of how the Regt could best support them and of course sees the troops get hands on a whole host of equipment, including the temporary flood barrier. In Doncaster this is a very relevant skill, with the Don Valley being susceptible to severe flooding, and the Army Reserve Centre previously being used as a staging location for support to previous flood response efforts. As the weekend progressed the HQ element was tested, with the simulation of a live flood event, with requests for sandbags, water, flood defences and 4x4 vehicle support all being fed to the Ops Room to manage.

The weekend also saw casualty drills practiced and demonstrations by the Firefighters, some of whom are also reserve soldiers within the Squadron, on their capabilities and equipment.

Ex WAGONER SKILL

This multi-disciplined week saw several soldiers complete a multitude of courses relevant to their trade, including EPLS conversion, HAZMAT & B3 upgrading. Delivered over nine days at the Defence School of Transport, the courses were delivered by the Regt’s ARes instructors, many of whom are employed as Civil Servants within the Defence School of Transport.

The good working relationship with DST has also seen modular phase 2 training courses commence, which have vastly reduced the training pipeline for

recruits. During the first iteration of this course one attendee had only recently completed their phase 1 training and so had gone from attestation to Phase 2 trained soldier within 12 months! We hope that with the increased flexibility, this approach provides our soldiers, it means it will become the norm.

The 150 Regiment RLC Band

The 150 Regt band has been on a mission to raise its profile and attract new members. As part of this, several unconventional approaches have been taken including taking part in impromptu “flash mobs” around Hull City Centre and hosting open rehearsals. The flash mobs were well received drawing in an audience and provided entertainment to those out shopping within the city centre.

The band, made up entirely of

Reservist Musicians, is a contemporary band capable of covering many well-known artists but also provides ensembles in support of more formal events, such as Remembrance Sunday and other parades. For further information on the band please contact the Band PSI at 150RLCBand-WO@mod.gov.uk

Skiing success!

The Regimental Ski team had continued success at the RLC skiing championships with the team bringing home the Murray Cup after being crowned RLC Reserve Combined Champions! In addition to a whole host of individual awards, the team also finished third overall in the highly contested Military Patrol race.

Join Us

150 Regt has locations in Hull, Leeds, Doncaster, Lincoln, Tynemouth and Hartlepool and is always keen to hear from Regular soldiers resettling into these areas. To find out more information about the Regt and see what opportunities we can offer you check out the QR code.

8 Members of the 150 Regt band taking a break after performing in Hull City Centre Market Hall

8 150 Regiment soldiers erecting flood barriers during resilience training.

151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

CO: Lt Col E Lewis • Adjt: Capt E Jeffries • RSM: WO1 S Jaffa

151 Regiment RLC closed 2023 with some huge successes.

Going above and beyond During late 2023 regimental personnel were committed to numerous exercises and operations in support of 101 OSB, including Ex IRON TITAN 23 in October, with Army Reserve personnel attending to qualify for their Certificate of Efficiency. All were congratulated by the Brigade Commander on their commitment and professionalism. A Community Engagement evening in November was held at the Royal Artillery Barracks, Woolwich. Hosting guests from 101 OSB, civilians who employ the Regt’s reservists, local dignitaries from the London Boroughs, and personnel from the affiliated Worshipful Company of Marketors and the Carmen; the Regt was able to say thank you to all those who support our soldiers and officers. December saw the normal preparation for the festive break. January and February 2024 contained the final assured training weekends.

Taking to the skies and tearing up the tracks with 124 Sqn In November, seven members of 124 Sqn deployed to Perris, California as a part of Ex COCKNEY TRIDENT FREEFALL. Designed to evaluate their potential to become qualified A Licence Skydivers, the training entailed jumping from 13,000ft and completing Levels 1-8 comprised of different techniques whilst free falling. The majority of individuals had never skydived before, yet they excelled at every opportunity when placed outside of their comfort zone. An average of 20 skydiving jumps were completed per person, showing real grit and determination for the challenge. Everyone finished the expedition with an immense sense of pride and confidence, whilst four individuals also became qualified skydivers for the Regt. Maj Herlihy (Sqn OC), applauded the team expedition as ‘a heroic effort by all

and an experience to remember forever.’

Not a squadron to rest on its laurels, 124 Sqn entered two vehicles and crew into the December off-road driving competition MAGNUM SPIRIT in Larkhill, Wiltshire. Run by the British Army Motorsport Association (BAMA), the competition is part of a range of events deigned to promote safe and skilled driving. Entering the 4x4 night driving category, each team had a short time to plot a route using grid references on their maps. Navigators LCpl Jeavons and Pte Farrell, rose to the challenge along a complex route. The driving environment proved difficult with bitterly cold weather, black ice, and plenty of mud and water obstacles around the course. However, drivers, Cpl Martin and Pte Heath were not going to be defeated, however. With time a key factor, the two teams navigated skilfully around the area to finish the competition first in their class.

240 Sqn Impress on Ex SANTA’S

STAG

As 2023 drew to a close, 240 Sqn kept up its tempo of varied training and development opportunities following annual camp; including participation in Ex TRIDENT LEADER, the Lord Mayor’s Show, Remembrance parades, Ex TRIDENT SHOOTER and Ex SANTAS STAG. For OCdt B Leung, the multi-faceted capabilities demonstrated by the Sqn in December was second to none: “Ex SANTAS STAG was an opportunity for everyone to refresh their driver skills and teamwork in a ‘fun’ way. JNCOs were able to exercise some junior leadership by organising and running the stands that were setup. The stands included an SV braking distance test, a reverse and manoeuvrers test, and a command task stand. The weekend culminated with a Christmas dinner served by the SNCOs and Officers, and a chance to reflect on the Sqn’s many achievements as we look forward to the next training year.”

Should any RLC service leaver be interested in joining151 Regt or the Army Reserve in general, please contact the Regimental Second-in-Command, Major Neil Whitewick: Email: Neil.Whitewick309@mod.gov.uk Skype: 03001 692107.

8 Members of 124 Sqn California freefalling

8 240 Sqn enjoys some Christmas cheer

152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST

CO: Lt Col RT Clements VR • Adjt: Capt S McIlveen

The period leading up to and following Christmas was a whirlwind of activity for 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC, as it diligently prepared for the deployment of 26 personnel on Op LINOTYPER to operate a PBFI in support of 104 Th Sust Bde.

One of the pivotal events during this period was Remembrance Sunday, an occasion deeply ingrained in the regimental calendar with significant contribution to local events. On this day, 152 Regt played a vital role in supporting four parades across Holywood, Belfast, Londonderry, and Coleraine.

At the end of November, the Regt united for the CO’s Winter Challenge, held at the Magilligan training centre. This event served as a platform for fostering camaraderie and cohesion within the Regt, as squadrons engaged in a variety of activities including virtual clay pigeon shooting, golf, archery, orienteering and immersive VR simulations. The highlight of the weekend was the Soldiers’ Christmas Dinner in Londonderry, meticulously organized by 211 Sqn, where the Regt came together in celebration of its performances throughout the year. DComd 104ThSust Bde and the Honourary Colonel graced the occasion, with Col Tessem-Cotton providing valuable insights into the focus

areas within 104 Bde, outlining plans for the upcoming year and setting the stage for the Regt’s future endeavours.

The latter part of 2023 was dedicated to sharpening core skills essential for operational readiness, with a particular emphasis on live firing exercises in preparation for the Regimental Operational Shooting Competition (ROSC) which took place in March 2024 and subsequent shooting competitions where the Regt has historically performed excellently. Additionally, a team embarked on Ex KNEES BEND for the RLC Ski Championships.

Despite the challenges posed by unforeseen circumstances, notably the cancellation of several training nights and a regimental weekend in early 2024 due to IYSM, the

soldiers of 152 Regt demonstrated resilience and determination, maintaining a commendable level of activity. In January, preparations for deployments persisted alongside support for ACF events, culminating in the Regt's triumph as the NI Army Orienteering Night Champions. The Regt also took the time to celebrate with a Burns Supper, honouring the Scottish poet's legacy amidst the camaraderie of current and former members.

February heralded further sporting successes, as the regimental football team journeyed to Edinburgh for the Army Reserve Challenge Cup quarter final against 154 Regt RLC. In a display of skill and determination, 152 Regt emerged victorious, securing its place in the semi-finals of the competition to be held in NI against 6 SCOTS.

Throughout these trials and triumphs, the Regt exemplified resilience, dedication, and teamwork, overcoming obstacles to achieve success both in training and on the field of sports. Its unwavering commitment to excellence serves as a testament to the professionalism and esprit de corps embodied by the soldiers of 152 Regt.

8 152 Regt beat 154 Regt RLC in the Army Reserve Challenge Cup quarter final

RSM: WO1 M S Macrae

8 152 Regt’s Pipes and Drums at the Coleraine Remembrance Sunday parade

154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

DUNFERMLINE

CO: Maj K Ritchie • Adjt: Capt G Pryor • RSM: WO1 A Maloney

Much change has taken place since the last Sustainer submission. The Regt bid farewell to the CO, Lt Col Johnson MBE, after over two years in command. The Adjt, Capt Gareth Pryor MBE, has left the Regular Army, however we are delighted that he intends to join the Army Reserve and remain with 154 Regt. We wish both the CO and Adjt all the best for the future and look forward to welcoming Lt Col O’Brien and Capt Fairclough in due course.

Pipes and Drums

The 154 Regt Pipes and Drums have been re-established under command of CSgt Huxter, a former Queen’s Piper. This is fantastic news and will form a large part of the recruiting and retention programme for FY 24/25. Current strength is 12, which comprises a combination of experienced pipers/drummers and SP with no experience. Practice sessions on Tuesday evenings have been well attended and the plan is to introduce occasional day-long practice sessions at the weekend. Once the quorum is of a sufficient standard, the Regt looks forward to collaborating with musicians from 152 and 157 Regts.

Project Newbury

20 long years after a new Army Reserve Centre (ARC) for Dunfermline was first proposed, and after many false starts, the foundations for the new centre are finally taking shape. The original building dates from 1911 and so it is high time for a modern and future proof replacement. Even after the contract was signed doubts of completion lingered after a few UXOs were found during the excavation phase. However, all obstacles have been overcome and construction has moved on at a pace. At the end of April, the steel frame started to be erected and the build came to life.

By June 25 RHQ, 239 Sqn and

527 Sqn will have a new home on the same site as the old Bruce House. The design will be open plan with multi-functional areas to allow for adaptability in an unpredictable world. 154 Regt soldiers and officers will soon have a place to train, socialise and be proud of. Well worth the wait!

251 & 221 Sqns to 152 Regt

The Western Sqns of 154 Regt have participated in a training weekend with 152 (NI) Regt. The main aim of this weekend was to establish links and foster possible future training collaboration between both units. Familiarisation training consisted of a look around 152 Regt’s real estate as well as a regimental brief on the roles and assets. It was particularly useful to see how a Bulk Fuel Supply

8 154 Regt’s new Dunfermline ARC is beginning to take shape

8 Pte Hamilton in the USA, cooking his way to an international medal at the JCTE

Regiment operates and trains considering there are no embedded fuel assets within 154 Regt. Time in the MEL was set aside for team cohesion and to allow the troops to sample the local Belfast area, which included a trip to see Belfast Giants Ice Hockey team in action as well as visits to the Titanic Museum and more notably the Ulster Museum. A big thank to all at 152 Regt (220 Sqn) for hosting and making this possible.

Pte Jorge Hamilton - 221 (Glasgow) Transport Squadron

The British Army Culinary Arts Team (BACAT) was formally invited to represent the British Armed Forces at the United States’ 48th Annual Joint Culinary Training Exercise (JCTE). The team of 13 competed in the international category and the team and individual categories against America, France, Canada, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, and units from across the USA. Pte Hamilton was awarded a silver medal as part of the Student Team of the Year Award category and a bronze in the Junior Pastry Chef of the Year category. A remarkable achievement as Pte Hamilton only achieved Class 3 status in 2023.

156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL

CO: Lt Col A Tang • Adjt: Capt B Griffin • RSM: WO1 K Hicks

The start of 2024 saw the 156 Regiment RLC commitment to Op INTERFLEX wind down, while at the same time our soldiers have made the most of overseas training and sporting opportunities.

Op INTERFLEX

156 Regt personnel finished handing over command of the Op INTERFLEX Handling and Processing (HAP) centre in January 2024, marking the end to a very successful deployment. Under the Regt’s leadership the HAP supported the training of over 16,000 Ukrainian soldiers and processed and issued over a million items of equipment and clothing.

Ex LOGISTIC BOARDER

In April, four soldiers from the Regt travelled to Austria to compete on Ex LOGISTIC BOARDER, the Corps’ snowboarding championships. It was a successful endeavour, with Cpl Ward winning the novice slalom event and LCpl Forde coming runner up in four of the female categories. Pte Reeves was selected to represent the Corps team and remained in Austria for longer competing on Ex SNOW JACK.

PCC4

In March, five 156 Regt soldiers deployed to Fort Irwin, California in support of Project CAPSTONE CONVERGENCE 4 (PCC4). Here

they worked alongside Army Futures and DSTL to experiment with potential next generation logistic equipment, which would enable the automation of many of our current logistic procedures. Throughout the experimentation phase they met with scientists from numerous partner nations, including France, the US and Australia, who also demonstrated

some of their newest technologies. In the down time between activities, the team were able to conduct numerous rides in Black Hawk helicopters, as well as visit Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam, Death Valley and Area 51.

Sport

156 Regt’s men’s football team was unfortunate to lose to 5RRF in the National Army Reserve Cup, losing out on a place in the quarter finals. However, it was not all bad news as later that month they became formally accredited by the FA. The Regt has been working hard to establish a women’s football team, and the effort finally paid off in March when 156 Regt was able to enter a women’s team in the RLC six-a-sides for the first time. The team put in a fantastic effort, with LCpl Connolly winning the Golden Boot, having scored nine goals over the course of the competition.

Looking forward

There is a lot to look forward to in the coming months. The Regt has a Battlefield Study planned to Belgium and France, as well as an adventurous training expedition to the US. Trade training will be the focus over the coming months, as the Regt prepares for ACT in September.

8 The Regt’s fist ever woman’s football team made its debut at the RLC six-a-sides

8 Members of 156 Regt in a US Army Blackhawk during PCC4 in California

8 156 Regt snow boarders had a hugely successful Corps championships

157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CARDIFF

CO: Lt Col A Briggs • Adjt: Capt R Sayer • RSM: WO1 H Blackmore

157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC has seen winter come and go with a plethora of activity. Highlights include Ex WINTER DRAGON, skiing in Norway and Snowboarding in France.

Ex WINTER DRAGON

By Pte Singh – 580 Sqn

The blustery and wet weather didn’t deter the Regt from putting on its annual Christmas exercise, the decider for the coveted COs Sword competition. All squadrons met up at Caerwent Training Area for an inter Sqn mil skills competition where teams and individuals were tested in navigation, command, marksmanship, and problem solving.

Notably OC 223 Sqn had victory in his sights, putting a sterling effort in on the navigation exercise to get his Sqn over the line, claiming victory, and taking the COs sword back to Swansea after a 20-year absence. An admirable effort by all Sqns, the wet weather didn’t dampen spirits and the Regt signed off for Christmas leave in traditional style serving up Christmas Dinner back in Maindy Barracks.

Ex ALPINE KNEES BEND

By WO1 McClean – RHQ

Five members of 157 Regt (a mix of Regular, Reserve and FTRS SP) deployed to Norway on Ex ALPINE KNEES BEND 23. After a 49 hour

journey the team arrived at the accommodation in Hemsedal and began preparations for three weeks of Ski training and racing. With perfect conditions on the slopes the team got stuck straight into training getting pushed through race drills and gates with coaches from across the Corps and UNIQ Snowsports. The two novice skiers were taken through the fundamentals of skiing before progressing on to race training in week two, in preparation for the Corps race week.

Week three saw the whole team participate in all three disciplines of Alpine racing including Slalom, Giant Slalom and Super Giant Slalom. Although no awards were received this year it has set good foundations for the team to build on for next year’s Championships.

8 157 Ski Team in -14C conditions

This was a great experience for all who participated but more so for the two novice skiers who were introduced to the sport and pushed beyond their comfort zone from day one on snow to completing a Super G run in just three weeks.

Maj Steve Read farewell

It’s not often that individuals get a farewell shoutout and a MIS. However, after 43 years of Reserve Service in the same regiment, it seems apt to tribute a paragraph or two to this loyal, committed, and humble officer.

43 Years, having signed up on his birthday on 14 Feb 1981! To put this into context Maj Steve Read has served since the conflict in the Falklands, during two Gulf Wars, the collapse of the Soviet Union, the wars in the Balkans, Kosovo and Afghanistan to name but a few. Initially a Private, he flew through the ranks, commissioned, and promoted to Major; eventually commanding 249 (HQ) Sqn.

With multiple operational tours to his name, never missing a bounty and barely missing a Reserve training day we thank you for your service Steve.

Happy Retirement from all of us at 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC.

8 Maj Steve Read Young and Old

158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH

CO: Lt Col A Swales MBE • Adjt: Capt J Eddie • RSM: WO1 E Emmanuel

Rounding off a busy and successful year, 158 Regiment RLC had representation across multiple sites for Remembrance as well as completing the final STEELBACK (SB) exercise of 2023, Ex SB 07. This saw the Regt deploy to Bassingbourn and the squadrons competing in the CO’s challenge; a patrol competition consisting of various events across the training area including navigation, communications, and a gun run. The Regt also used this opportunity to hold the soldiers’ Christmas lunch.

Moving into the new year, the Regt mobilised a number of reservists, including one regular officer, onto Op INTERFLEX to work within the Handling and Processing (HAP) Facility UK. Going through the same process as any other operational deployment, 158 Regt Service Personnel (SP) volunteered and ensured they were G1 and G7 ready to deploy, deploying on various dates down to South Cerney. Over the few months they were there for tranche four, some of the headline figures are over 86k meals served, the processing of 27 inbound and 15 outbound flights, over seven thousand Ukranian SP hosted and issued with kit, as well as 30 visits hosted. This was a fantastic opportunity for the soldiers and officers to be involved in such a vital activity, allowing

development of skills as well as the opportunity for some of the Army Reservists to bring their civilian SQEP into a military operational environment.

The beginning of 2024 was difficult for all Army Reserve (ARes) units across the Army due to the In Year Savings Measures being implemented. Due to the requirement to reduce expenditure, all ARes units had to make sacrifices whilst thinking of innovative ways to continue training and keep SP engaged.

Despite the reduction of training evenings and assured events, 158 Regt used this as an opportunity to put on various C1 activities, events

for which the ARes will not be paid but are covered as being on duty for various activities and team building events. These were extremely popular and well attended, setting the Regt up nicely to enter the new financial year with a refreshed and engaged workforce. Additionally, and despite these measures, the Regt also saw SP deploy on Ex LOG BOARDER, a fantastic opportunity for both them and the Regt.

With ties to 1 Avn BCT, the Regt also deployed 1 x OR with 7 Bn REME to act as SIDECON for 4AAC on CAST in Sennelager on Ex PINION POUNCE. 7 Bn REME are the HQ of the BSG for 1 Avn BCT for which 158 Regt provides a Transport Sqn. This was a fantastic opportunity to further develop SOIs for the BSG and set both units up for further exercises throughout 2024.

Look forward

Moving into the new financial year, the coming months are unsurprisingly busy for the Regt. Training opportunities are plentiful, with the next big exercise being Ex RHINO HEART which will see numerous SP deploy to Germany. In house training will also continue, with EX SB 01 being conducted on the Barossa training area in April, the first regimental exercise since training was reduced.

8 202 Sqn receiving the CO’s Trophy

8 Members of 158 Regt on Ex LOG BOARDER in Austria

159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

COVENTRY

CO: Lt Col A Heather • Adjt: Capt W Douglas • RSM: WO1 P Whiting

159 Regiment RLC has been busy with three regimental weekend exercises – REFLECTION, READINESS and CHALLENGEthe burgeoning relationship with Babcock, the support our troops continue to supply to the HAP for Op INTERFLEX, and even a regimental cake-making contest in December, won by the Mrs Rose Whiting (the RSM’s wife).

Ex BARBARIAN REFLECTION

The exercise, held in London, tested and developed critical soldiering skills; as well as reminding soldiers of the responsibility and gravity of the role they’ve assumed. The troops needed to use their navigation skills to get around the streets of Central London to visit checkpoints which were places of reflection and remembrance, such as the Cenotaph, the Imperial War Museum and the National Army Museum. At each, they were presented with a topic to debate for which they needed to explore the local area to gather evidence. Practise in researching and presenting arguments was gained during the regimental focus on reflection prior to the exercise. This event also provided a brilliant opportunity to empower our Junior NCOs by appointing them syndicate leaders.

The RLC Foundation –Regimental partnership with Babcock International CO 159 Regt - with a small team from 123 (Telford) Squadronvisited Babcock at MOD Donnington, to scope building a mutually beneficial relationship as part of the RLC Foundation. There are obvious geographical as well as personal links; The Honorary Colonel of 159 Regiment (Brig Alistair Deas) is the Director Training Defence Land for Babcock International Group and 123’s OC (Maj Roger Hill-Harding) a Supply Chain Manager at the Telford DSG site. After an initial briefing, Brig Deas and the team were given an enthralling insight into how a

premier

Ex BARBARIAN READINESS

The Regt’s new-year focus on deployability was kicked off by Ex BARBARIAN READINESS, expertly delivered by 125 Sqn. This event, held at Beacon Barracks in Stafford, was designed to enhance and assess the personal preparedness of attendees, with the spotlight being on Health and Wellbeing. With instruction covering all aspects of one’s personal health, there were also impassioned contributions from many attendees on managing mental stresses and interpersonal conflicts. This was closely linked to the importance physical health has on deployability, with the opportunity to complete both SCR and RFT as part of the package.

Ex BARBARIAN CHALLENGE

Ex BARBARIAN CHALLENGE provided the final event of the regimental annual competition – the Hawley Trophy – and consisted of a military skills competition at the Defence School of Transport, in March. This saw teams from each subunit progress through a series of stands focussed on core military skills. The teams competed with determination and enthusiasm, with 237 Squadron being declared the deserved winners of the Military Skills Competition. On the Saturday evening, the Regt hosted an awards dinner night, which saw the presentation of a number of

accolades including; the Junior Commander of the year, won by Cpl Cullis of 237 Sqn, the Bradley Shield (designed to recognise the professionalism, dedication and hard-work of a Private within the Regt) won by Pte Francis of 123 Squadron, and the Nicholson Trophy (for the JNCO who has delivered or made an outstanding contribution towards training delivery), won by Cpl Clements of 123 Squadron. The CO also took this opportunity to present the Volunteer Reserve Service Medal to Cpl Busk of 237 Squadron, celebrating 10 years of exemplary service in the Army Reserves. 243 Sqn were declared as overall winners of the Hawley Trophy, after a strong performance throughout the year.

Defence Contractor provides support to the Field Army.

8 Ex BARBARIAN REFLECTION outside No.10 Downing Street

8 Pte Francis receiving the Bradley Shield from the RSM

162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM

CO: Lt Col J Hodgson • Adjt: Capt W Eagle • RSM: WO1 L Tokonibau

Much has happened over the last four months. There are many new personalities in 162 Regt RLC but most notably the Regt has been fortunate enough to be appointed a new Honorary Colonel.

The Regt was fortunate to host Brig S Smith, Bde Comd 104 Th Sus Bde. He attended a drill night at 280 Sqn whist OPTW24 was being conducted. It was a great opportunity for the Commander to engage with officers, soldiers and civilian staff.

DComd 104X also took the opportunity to visit the Regt conducting live firing at Kingsbury ranges and was introduced to soldiers completing WHT for the pistol and firing it for the first time. He was particularly impressed how northern units provide training for each other if they are struggling to complete some of their training objectives.

6 Months In – By Lt Col J Hodgson CO 162 Regt

As Commanding Officer, I have been in post for circa six months now and have enjoyed every moment in command so far. Despite the recent In Year Savings Measures, it is still great to see Army Reserve personnel turning up to Drill Nights and weekend training events. It’s also brilliant to see our people being recognised: with Lord Lieutenant Awards for LCpls Taylor (281) Brown (282) and Mr Frank Hadfield (282, Civ Servant). The Regt is also delighted with the recent appointment by His Majesty The King of Col Cameron Macnish as the Honorary Colonel. Going forward and following the restructure of the Regt to three Task Sqns and a HQ Sqn, the focus of the Regt is to increase its capability and therefore what it offers to Field Army. With Postal and Courier no longer a Regt output, all focus is on Movement Controller training but in a realistic environment. The XO, Maj Chris Scott, has been working hard to create new training opportunities alongside 7X Movements Team,

Team LEIDOS and HQ Regional Command Movements Team. All three have provided exciting opportunities for our people to test their current skills and learn new ones away from the standard training environment of the JAMC or SMC. There will be more of this to come as we exploit the 104Bde relationship with Bristol Port and with emerging opportunities on Ex AUSTERE WOLF (Italy/Slovenia) in the latter part of 2024.

Ex NORTHERN STRIKE 23

Following on from the Regt’s success at last year’s competition, the bar had most definitely been raised to retain its winning form. After some pre-training the Regt embarked on defending is crowns, with soldiers from the previous winning team in the cohort and Sgt Weedon and LCpl Kinsman,

providing valuable experience. Not only did the Regt retain its crown as Best Male Reserve Team, the performance on the Mil Skills Stand also saw the Regt awarded the trophy for Best Military Skills Team. The competition was thoroughly enjoyed by all and the Regt is looking forward to Ex NORTHERN STRIKE 24 in hope of another strong performance.

Ex DRAGON FRESHTRACKS

Ex DRAGON FRESHTRACKS (Ex DFT) was a Type 3 External Alpine Skiing AT exercise conducted as Distributed Training and based out of Vallandry in France over the period of 16 – 27 Jan 24. The aim was to deliver Ski Foundation (SF) Level 1 and 2 with one day’s development to 12 members of the Regt.

Team SF1, under instruction from Capt Stephen (Taff) Richards (DE&S) took the novices from zero to “semi” hero and delivered some competent skiers with the experience and knowledge to undertake SF2 in next season. Team SF2 under Maj Mark Watson, took the “experienced” skiers to the next level by introducing them to the world of ski touring.

Overall, all students completed the week injury free, with a few highlighted as potentials to attend a JSMTC SF3 and progress along the instructor path.

8 Teams SF1 and SF2 on Ex DRAGON FRESHTRACKS

8 DComd 104 Bde speaks with 162 Regt soldiers on Kingsbury Ranges

165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC

PLYMOUTH

CO: Lt Col G Symonds • Adjt: Capt A Stephenson • RSM: WO1 P Viant

A busy period of change for 165 P&M Regiment RLC has seen departures and arrivals of key personalities. Most notably WO1 Ligairi has now completed an excellent tenure as the Regimental Sergeant Major and has now moved to HQ London District. We have welcomed WO1 (RSM) Viant who assumed the mantle at the beginning of April.

Ex CARIBBEAN EXPRESS

13 personnel from the Unit attended Ex CARIBBEAN EXPRESS in February onboard the JSASTC yacht Adventure, a Challenger 72 vessel. This was an amazing opportunity for members of the Regt to be introduced to offshore sailing in a fantastic area. The itinerary was busy and included sailing from Rodney Bay, St Lucia to Clifton on Union Island; Tobago Cays to swim with the turtles; Chatham Bay on Union Island; Bequia - a long 36-hour sail to Nelsons Dockyard on Antigua; Deshaies on Guadeloupe; Roseau on Dominica to conduct an amazing Island Tour; Anse de Artlets on Martinique and finally returning to Rodney Bay. The total milage sailed was 590 nautical miles and included four-night sails. The team worked hard in the heat to cover the distance and sail a heavy yacht set up for adventure training. The hard work paid off though with the amazing scenery and the novices came away with a RYA Competent Crew certificate.

Trade training/deployments

The Regt has seen an increase in the mobilisation of Army Reserve soldiers and officers in support of Op LINOTYPER, PENSACOLA and BFSAI to name a few. Additionally, the Regt has recently completed the final training weekend of the training year. Held at the Sea Mounting Centre, training activity saw the integration of our three main trades with Vehicle Specialist training and working alongside Port Operators and Mariners. This type

of training is, and has always been, integral to how the Regt operates and allows our people to deliver live tasks of unloading and loading vessels whilst also supporting 17 Port & Maritime Regiment.

Sporting success

The last quarter has been another success for regimental personnel who have competed in a variety of sporting competitions. Pte McAngus participated in the RLC Equestrian grassroots league

competing and placing 2nd in dressage. Privates Harris and Gough both competed with the UK Armed Forces Rally team placing 2nd. Both Pte Cresswell and 2Lt Kurn represented the Army Reserve Football team and conducted training matches against Stafford and the England Deaf Team. Most notably 2Lt Bryson has continued to compete at the highest level of Pentathlon recently competing in the first Pentathlon World Cup held in Cairo where she achieved Bronze, her focus continues for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

A look forward

Regimental personalities are currently preparing for the Regimental Study Weekend in May, which will also see the Regt celebrate its 10th anniversary. The Regt is also looking forward to supporting Exercise AUSTERE WOLF as part of the Regimental ACT in the summer. Additionally regimental personnel will continue with their various sporting commitments which will hopefully see the Regt retain the Army Reserve Sports Trophy for a second consecutive year.

8 Members of 165 Regt have conducted trade training at the SMC

8 WO1 Viant takes over from WO1 Ligairi as RSM 165RLC

167 Catering Support Regiment RLC

GRANTHAM

CO: Lt Col M Dyos • Adjt: Capt C McColl • RSM: WO1 S Allison

167 Catering Support Regiment

RLC finished 2023 on a high and has started 2024 with a bang –mobilising chefs to Europe on Op LINOTYPER, delivering adventurous training, squadron events and the final weekends of the training calendar.

Competitions

Prior to the Christmas closedown, the Regt’s competitive edge was put to the test at several events. At Ex JOINT CATERER, LCpl Gill won a bronze medal in a hard-fought dessert challenge. The festive atmosphere was in full swing for the Regt’s annual Christmas Cake competition which saw LCpl Archer take first place, and LCpls Smith and Mooney taking a joint second!

Training activities

A busy series of training weekends have seen the end of the annual training calendar and over 70 soldiers and officers achieving their Certificate of Efficiency. In January, the Regt hosted a Wellbeing Weekend - focusing on Mens’ Health, both mental and physical. After completing fitness tests in a rare morning of winter sun, the Regt hosted a selection of speakers to lead discussions on spiritual and mental wellbeing, as well as lived experiences of testicular and prostate cancer. The honest and sincere discussions were thoughtprovoking and provided a great eye-opener for all who attended. 112 Squadron also ran a military education weekend in London, visiting both the Imperial War Museum and HMS Belfast - looking into historic examples of military catering in the different Armed Services, with the field kitchens displayed in the museum and the impressive galley of HMS Belfast. The Army Reserve School of Catering has also delivered numerous courses since the start of the year. Class 3 and 2 chefs have completed their respective career courses, often encountering challenging weather on the field

cookery stages. Regular and Reserve chefs have also honed their technical skills during dedicated weeks focusing on particular cuisines. Chocolate and cake decoration skills proved very popular with students and staff alike, and the fish skills week included a fascinating early morning trip to Billingsgate Market to purchase fish for later preparation.

Adventurous training

In March, members of the Regt, led by WO2 Barber, challenged themselves in the wild weather and terrain of the Lake District on Ex DRAGON LANCS. A three-day

8

programme began with a revision of practical navigation and map reading techniques before heading into the hills. Despite wet and windy conditions, the team ascended parts of the Fairfield Horseshoe to be rewarded with stunning views of multiple Wainwrights and the length of Windemere itself. A long day of walking ended with well earned refreshments once safely back at the vehicles. The final day saw the ascent of Gowbarrow Fell above Ullswater and a great view of the raging torrent of Aira Force waterfall.

Op LINOTYPER

Chefs from 167 Regt have deployed to mainland Europe on the British Army’s largest deployment in years. Since the start of the year, Op LYNOTYPER has seen huge numbers of British and NATO allies deploy to a series of exercises across the continent and 167RLC chefs have been embedded from the very start. Six chefs were mobilised and deployed to both Germany and Poland with 9 Theatre Support Bn REME. The Regt looks forward to their safe return to the UK later this year and for a full report of their experiences.

8 Members of 112 Sqn aboard HMS Belfast

The CO congratulates LCpl Archer in the Christmas Cake Competition

20 Transport Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps

LONDON

OC: Maj C Frost • SSM: WO2 G Keen

20 Sqn Soldiers and Civil Servants share Christmas festivities

Soldiers and civil servants of 20 Squadron RLC celebrated the holiday season with a memorable Christmas lunch followed by a unique outing to the Shard. Embracing the spirit of unity and adventure, the team took full advantage of their time in the vibrant city.

The festivities began with a heart-warming Christmas lunch at a local pub, where soldiers and civil servants gathered to enjoy delicious food and lively conversation. Amidst the festive decorations and cheery atmosphere, bonds were strengthened, and memories were made as colleagues came together to celebrate the season.

Following the meal, the group embarked on an exciting excursion to The Shard, London's iconic skyscraper offering breathtaking views of the city skyline. Bundling up against the winter chill, the team eagerly ascended to the observation deck, where they were greeted by panoramic vistas stretching across the bustling metropolis.

20 Sqn's vital role in facilitating high-level visits and engagements

20 Sqn, a key component of the military support network in London, continues to play a pivotal role in

providing essential logistical support for various significant events and engagements. From facilitating transportation for senior starred officers to hosting international delegations, the Sqn remains at the forefront of ensuring smooth operations across the London District, the Royal Household, and Ministry of Defence (MOD) Main Building.

Recently, the MOD had the honour of hosting a senior officer visit from the Indian Defence Forces. During this visit, Pte Gilfillan of 20 Sqn had the privilege of supporting and driving the distinguished guests, providing them with a seamless experience throughout their engagements.

Pte Gilfillan is awarded Best RLC Soldier by the Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriages

Private Gilfillan’s hard work and dedication have earned him the prestigious Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriage Driver Award, recognising his outstanding volunteer spirit and commitment. His exemplary service stands as a beacon of inspiration, reflecting the values of selflessness and excellence.

Ex TIMBER TRUSS

Ten members of 20 Sqn deployed on Exercise TIMBER TRUSS to support RLC Officer’s undergoing Phase 2 training. As part of the preparation, Service Personnel underwent rigorous pre-training which included cross country driving, ACMT and EPLS training enhancing their readiness for diverse tasks during the exercise.

8 Team 20 Sqn at the top of The Shard

8 Pte Gilfillan with his Worshipful Company of Hackney Carriages’ award

8 Drivers from 20 Sqn refreshed trade and military skills prior to Ex TIMBER TRUSS

Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS)

BENSON, OXFORDSHIRE

OC: Maj A Hughes • 2IC: Flt Lt C Jacobs • SSM: WO2 L Dowling

It is often the case that much of the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron finds itself dispersed in small detachments across the globe. This year has started without exception. Wherever there are helicopters across defence, JHSS is there to support.

Falkland deployment 2024

By AS1 Greetham

JHSS has a constant presence in the Falklands, routinely deploying teams to enable vital helicopter support across the islands. JHSS has had to adapt its processes to tailor and accommodate the new S-92 airframe. The new aircraft has a greater carrying capacity and speed making transporting the essentials to the remote radar sights faster and easier.

Underslung loads can vary, depending on the time of year and what is required to provide support to those in the region. The unpredictability of what equipment may arrive, develops and sharpens the team’s skill set and broadens individuals’ confidence in adaptability. Recently, the team’s skill and knowledge have been tested by creating complex underslung loads for unusual equipment used to improve the remote radar heads around the islands.

The JHSS team has also been assisting with some of the recreational flights laid on for other

sections and families within the Mount Pleasant complex. The Helicopter Support Section offer flights to unique locations where they can get up close and personal with different kinds of wildlife. Not only for avid bird watchers to be able to tick off the likes of the Southern Rockhopper, King Penguin and Black-bowed Albatross; but also, the flights provide a unique opportunity to see seals, dolphins, whales and killer whales.

Operation CLOCKWORK 24 –JHSS 3 Troop

By AirTpr Rawlings

Currently located 200 miles north of the Artic Circle, members from JHSS 3 Troop are currently embedded with Commando MAOT. A combined team, able to break down into smaller teams and rapidly deploy at moment’s notice, is supporting ground and aviation units.

Three Sqn’s of aviation units from, 656 Sqn AAC, 845 & 847 Sqn

8 In addition to supporting Falkland operations, JHSS assists with recreational flights for families

Royal Navy, consisting of Apache, Wildcat and Merlin Helicopters have been deployed to Norway.

The team has helped all three aircraft types achieve vital training within the Artic, from snow landings to underslung loads in beautiful but unforgiving locations. Fulfilling tasks which include cross country skiing into locations as well as driving the ever-enjoyable BVs, often ending up at locations waist deep in snow.

As the aircraft are now completing their competency training, JHSS and CDO MAOT now look forward to supporting multiple exercises and the yearly tradition of loading up the secluded cabins of the Norwegian National parks with essential supplies.

Heli Landing School

On the domestic front, the Heli Handling School has continued to expand its remit as the Defence Centre of Excellence for Heli Handling, inheriting the Helicopter Load Slinging Equipment Inspector (HLSEI) from MOD St Athan. This builds on the Helicopter Landing Site Manager (HLSM) and Helicopter Handling Instructor (HHI) courses taken on from JADTEU in 2022. The school is now rated by Joint Helicopter Command as the lead training provider in Defence.

8 A troop from JHSS has been in Norway supporting the Commando MOUT

8 Aircraft from three squadrons have deployed on Op CLOCKWORK 24

The challenge of a ‘peacetime army’ largely remote from kinetic battles, is the development of our Service Personnel, making soldiers ready for the rigours of war or challenges they may face on operations… But how do we do this?

“Small teams foster camaraderie, trust, and a sense of purpose among their members. They excel in situations where quick decision making, and decentralised leadership are essential for success” – Admiral McRaven.

Within the context of this quote and through the planning and command of my Regiment’s Nordic Season, I now know what an outstanding training resource RLC and Army Nordic Military Training is for developing soldiers.

As with any military exercise, you are first given your orders. In this instance, it was to form a team, coordinate their deployment through Europe, train them in cross country skiing and shooting, and deliver them to compete against the rest of the Army in Ruhpolding, Germany. As a new team captain, for me, this meant understanding how best to select your team against a backdrop of competing exercise and operational commitments, training, administration and defence writing requirements, accessing vehicles for the season and how to move weapons and ammunition across borders safely and legally.

In military logistics, and especially within the TEG, this is a fantastic tabletop exercise for a young logistician in understanding the requirements and constraints of a (small) military move into and across mainland Europe. At the micro level it was a great way for me to really understand the regimental organisational structures.

Although our trades define us in The RLC, we still strive to embody the “soldier first” approach, requiring mental and physical toughness, awareness, excellent administration, slick rifle handling, marksmanship, and teamwork. From the arrival at our Corps training camp in Austria, nestled in the mountains of a remote village of Obertilliach, it was clear to see the direct translation Nordic has across all these

The operational training benefits of Nordic skiing

By Lt Oliver Smith 9 Regiment RLC

skillsets, and what transpired to be much more.

Like on operations, individuals within the team had to ensure they were prepared for the coming days on top of completing their everyday roles. There was a huge breadth of responsibility, and every member performed a role key to the team’s success; be that looking after the MT fleet, weapons and ammunition, range practices, finances, or the team’s training programme. At the other end of the spectrum, but equally important, was the day to day living standards, cleanliness, cooking (for eight people), rations, kit and equipment.

One of my team described his experience as, “Harder and more complicated than any CT I’ve ever done. It’s mentally stressful and always pushing and testing what my limits are.” Completing a gruelling 20km race to come back to your accommodation, admin yourself and go again the next day, tests determination and importantly how the team reacts to dips in morale. Junior leaders are those who don’t stop when it gets hard. They clearly and visibly sustain a level of functionality that

allows them to lead those who are in need. Our skiers, dealing with being away from the comforts of home, needed to work through occasional dips in spirit. Cohesion within the group, the shared experience with common focus, playing games and socialising, in the rare downtime we had, brought us closer – we worked through the adversity as a team. I hope Nordic has helped me understand and develop my own leadership. However, I am certain that it has expediated the growth of the junior team members beyond anything we could have achieved in barracks, or as part of a much bigger team on exercise. They have practiced and now have the skills to dovetail into, live in very close quarters with, and have the confidence to work, as a collective in an unfamiliar group.

I know we will now all return to our Regiment - and some to operations - not only extremely fit, but well-motivated, confident to lead or be part of a team, with new life skills, and most of all better at our role and more prepared for life in and out of camp. Ultimately, we are more ready for the next war.

The RLC’s year within 1 CS Bn REME

Who we are, and what we do

1 Close Support Battalion REME provides the level 3 Equipment Support capability for 7 Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team (7LMBCT). Throughout 2023, 7LMBCT has been conducting build up training to assume the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (Land) 2024 (VJTF(L) 24) commitment on the 1 Jan 24. This has seen the Bn and all RLC personnel heavily embedded into the Brigade’s activity supporting operations and training in the UK and overseas. There are 1+50 RLC in 1REME within the following areas:

• Comms Dept - Commanded by the Bn’s RSO and a RSigs SSgt. An RLC Sgt is employed as the BSM. There are two RLC Cpls (one aligned to BHQ and one to the lead CS Company), a LCpl aligned to the second CS Company and two Ptes for the Headquarters Company (one to CHQ and one to St Tp)

• MT Dept - This consists of a WO2 as the MTWO, an MT Sgt, a driver training Cpl, three LCpls who are aligned to each Company as the TMA and finally a Pte who is employed as the white fleet manager

• Catering Dept. This is made up of a SSgt as the UCM, a Sgt as the kitchen manager, a Cpl and a Pte

• 1LO - This consists of the 1LO Sgt, a Cpl, LCpl and a Pte

• The RLC St Tp - 7LMBCT’s second-line ES Mat CA. It consists of an RLC Capt, a WO2 as the Tech WO, a SSgt for internal training and assurance along with three Sgts, five Cpls, five LCpls and 13 Ptes.

Sport and Adventurous Training

The Bn embodies a ‘work hard, play hard’ philosophy, with RLC personnel offered every opportunity to participate and benefit from the extra activities on offer. These have included but not limited to:

• Mountain biking in Morzine Organised by the QM’s department of the Bn, this saw 13 members of the Bn deploy to France for a week of mountain biking. The package was aimed at intermediate riders gaining experience on a variety of trails and setting them up to progress onto future instructor courses

• A multi-activity package in Capel Curig. Organised by the Stores Troop saw c50 (including 15 RLC) members of the Bn deploy to Wales to complete a two-week package

• Army Boxing and indoor rowing. This year a Pte soldier was selected for the Army boxing team as well as attending the World Indoor Rowing Championships in Canada

• Festivals of Sport. The Bn has provide teams to both the REME

and the UK North Festivals of Sport including Cricket, Tug of War, Rugby, Football and many more. All sports represented had RLC personnel within the teams, showcasing the Bn’s ‘One Team’ mentality.

Operations and deployments

A highly deployable unit, it has given opportunities for RLC SP to gain operational experiences around the world, some of which are listed below:

• Op TURUS (Nigeria). The Bn deployed an A/WO2 to be the RQ on Op TURUS for a 6-month tour

• UK Support Node Africa. An LS(S) Cpl deployed as an A/Sgt to provide logistic support to a variety of operations in the Africa region

• Op ORBITAL. The Tp deployed an A/SSgt to Germany to provide support to the ongoing training of Ukrainian soldiers

• Op ALUMINIUM. The Tp deployed a team of four (1 Cpl as the LRS NCO, 1 LCpl and 2 Ptes) to Poland in support of the humanitarian aid to Ukraine

• @Readiness tasks. Support has been provided to multiple readiness tasks including Op ESCALIN, Op TEMPERER, Op REIMAGE and the UK Support Battalion (North)

• Op ELGIN. For the short notice deployment of additional equipment and personnel to Kosove, the Bn was called on to provide essential assistance. This saw a team of REME and RLC personnel deploy to SMC Marchwood to receipt and repair

8 The Col RLC with the Bn’s RLC personnel

incoming vehicles as well as an LS(S) team deploying to 1Yorks to provide logistical support to ensure all materiel was accounted for and package for onward transport.

Exercises and training

The RLC personnel have been critical in providing support to all 1 Bn REME and 7 LMBCT exercises both in the UK and overseas:

• Ex KHANJAR OMAN. The Bn deployed three teams to Oman including LS(S) and Dvr Comms Specs to enable the successful BG training activity. These have seen the teams establish Forward Repair Pools and maintain essential communications between Sub-Units. All while working in the high tempo and challenging desert environment

• Ex BRILLIANT JUMP/POLISH DRAGON. In February 2024 the Bn deployed six RLC personnel to Poland as part of the largest NATO Ex in decades. These included LS(S), Chefs and Comms Specs, working hand in hand with both the Bn, wider 7LMBCT as other VJTF(L) contributing nations

• Ex WESSEX STORM. The culmination of the Bn’s training saw it assume the role of the CSS Group Headquarters. RLC personnel from all departments deployed to Salisbury Plain to ensure the successful validation of 7LMBCT units ahead of the VJTF(L) 24 readiness.

Routine training

Throughout this year RLC soldiers have also been dedicated to the betterment of themselves and the wider Bn. With the MT Dept delivering a variety of driver training courses: including familiarisation of all vehicle platforms in the Bn as well as LUCIE and night driving training.

VJTF(L) 24 Standard Stock Modules

In December 2023 the Bn started the receipting process of the largest delivery of Standard Stock Modules in Fd Army. Receiving c22,500 items both the St Tp and the 1LO quickly sprang into action on ViTAL, receipting and repackaging all ES Mat designed to sustain 7LMBCT for 30 days should it deploy on

operations. This task was completed in only 18 days ready for the Brigade to start its readiness period.

Good news stories

1 (UK) Div Team of the Year. A testimony to the hard work and dedication shown by the Stores Tp over the past year, it was awarded the 1 (UK) Div team of the year. A massive congratulations to the Tp for its achievement.

Bn Awards Nights. Every year the Bn hosts its annual awards night with the RLC personnel highly nominated each year. The 2023 results were:

• Innovation award Won by Cpl Bell of the St Tp

• Most Inspirational SNCO/ WO/Offr Won by SSgt Shrehorn of the St Tp

• Team of the year Catering Dept nominated in the final three

• Best Junior Soldier Pte Galliford of the St Tp nominated in the final three

• External contribution award LCpl Crosby of the St Tp nominated in the final three

• Best Tradesperson Cpl Lee of the St Tp nominated in the final three

• Sports award Won by Pte Bladen of the St Tp.

2023 Promotions

Pte – LCpl: 3x LS(S), 1 x Dvr, 1x Comms Spec and 1 Chef.

LCpl – Cpl: 1x LS(S) and 1x Dvr. Cpl – Sgt: 2x LS(S).

What’s next?

After a busy year where the Bn’s RLC personnel have been critical is all aspects of battalion life, and wider 7LMBCT activity, they now look forward to beginning the readiness period on the VJTF(L) 24 commitment. Here the Tp will be held at five days NTM with elements held at 48hrs ready to deploy as part of a multinational Brigade to respond anywhere in the world.

British Army Sports Coins awarded Maj Georgie Mawbey, OC 73 Sqn, DSLA was awarded an Army Sports Coin for her outstanding contribution to Army sport and the conception and development of the competition pathway providing opportunities for army riders to fulfil their riding goals. She tirelessly and single-handily organises and runs events with great enthusiasm and passion which was recognised by Director of Army Sport.

OCdt Brian Leung was recognised with an Army Sport Coin for his dedication to army media promoting the successes of equitation within Army Sport. A RLC Reservist LCpl, now attending his Reserve Commissioning Course at RMAS, Brian has passion and personality which has made him a well-known face and he has pushed equitation further than before.

Army Equitation Association Army Grassroots League series results

The Army Equitation Association Army Grassroots League (AGRL) is aimed at novice riders new to

RLC Equestrian Winter Update

competitive horse riding. In its seventh year, the AGRL ran from January through to March 2024, under the co-ordination of Maj Georgie Mawbey OC 73 Sqn (DSLA). Participating riders must be able to walk, trot and canter in full control (!) and if they wish to jump, be able to negotiate a jumping course of fences at 70cm in height.

The series is comprised of four competitions over three months in two disciplines: Dressage only and Combined Training, which is a dressage test and a show jumping round. Every competition sees the riders perform a different British Dressage Prelim dressage test and a SJ course. Riders are allocated a different horse for each competition to develop their riding ability and ensure that a level playing field is achieved.

The RLC had six riders entered,

8 Pte McAngus jumps into 2nd place in the Combined Training

three in Dressage and three in Combined Training, with placings in every competition:

Cpl Sam McLean-Ward (19 Tk Tptr Sqn) learnt to ride in November 23 and after a total of 22 hours in the saddle, produced incredibly competitive results seeing him place 2nd, 2nd, 3rd and 4th. For this impressive result he was crowned the most improved rider for the league.

Cpl Sean Whitchurch, (27 Regt) and Sgt Ryan Elsbury (unit withheld) both placed throughout the competition. With Whitchurch achieving a 5th, 4th, and a 6th and Elsbury 5th twice and 6th.

In the Combined Training element, the RLC riders had fierce competition but Maj Paul Gotobed from DIO, Cpl Dodds from 73 Sqn (DSLA) and Pte

8 Maj Mawbey with her Army Sports Coin

8 Maj Paul Gotobed was placed 6th in the AGRL Combined Training

Kate McAngus (165 P&M Regt) all held their own achieving a 6th for Gotobed, 2 x 5th for Dodds and a 2nd and 3rd for McAngus.

This league is the start of the Army Development Pathway and sets the foundation for competitive sports as well as providing a support network as they develop to the main circuit. Maj Georgie Mawbey has also now established the Army Intermediate League (AIL) to support riders in the next step of their competitive journey.

We look forward to welcoming as many people as possible, so if you are a novice rider and wish to enter the AGRL or more established without a horse of your own and would like to enter the AIL then please get in touch with Maj Mawbey: Georgina.mawbey101@mod.gov.uk

Maj Mawbey is also The RLC’s MSC lead for centralised training which is held at Larkhill Saddle Club. It is open to all abilities for riders with or without their own

horses. Contact Maj Mawbey and she will very warmly welcome you into the fold. Alternatively, you can find us on Facebook and join us there. RLC Equestrian training clinics are held at The Royal Artillery Saddle Club Larkhill. Future training clinics dates: 30-31 May 24, 20-21 Jun 24, 25-26 Jul 24, 19-20 Sep 24, 31 Oct – 1 Nov 24.

Military Horse Racing experience days

LCpl Stevens from 5 Bn REME (RLC Stores Troop) attended a novice training day at the British Racing School. He received an insight into race procedures, rules of racing, working on body positions on the simulators as well as riding in a light seat and had an introduction to schooling a racehorse over jumps. Cpl Dodds, 73 Sqn (DSLA)

attended the introduction to racing at the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery where he was introduced to all elements of racing both in a practical and theoretical capacity.

Look ahead to the 2024 forecast of events

The next official Army Equitation Association event is the RAF Championships in April, taking place at Sparsholt College in Winchester. This competition is held over three days with a mixture of dressage and show jumping classes. Seven riders from across the ranks will represent the Corps and we eagerly await to see their successes celebrated.

The 2024 season forecast of events has now been formalised and offers the following events:

Date

7-10 Apr 24

4 May 24

18-19 May 24

24-28 Jun 24

16-18 Aug 24

Windsor Horse ShowWindsor, Surrey

Dressage ChampionshipsWestern Lawns

ChampionshipsDefence Animal Training Regiment, Melton Mowbray

ChampionshipsDavid Broome Event Centre, Chepstow

14-16 Oct 24 UKAF ChampionshipsBury Farm Equestrian Centre, Slapton

Dec 24 London International Horse ShowExCel, London

8 LCpl Stevens learning the jockey’s ‘Martini glass’ race-riding position at the British Racing School

RLC Golf South Africa 2024

In January 2024, 16 members of the RLC Golf team participated in an overseas sports visit to South Africa. The team visited Cape Town and travelled along the Garden Route of the Western Cape to Mossel Bay, Knysna, George, finishing back in Cape Town.

On arrival in Cape Town the visit opened with a warm-up round at the historic Royal Cape Golf Club before the team departed the city and moved out for three days to Mossel Bay where it competed in the first two of four matches against Pinnacle Point and Mossel Bay. Two outstanding golf courses, with Pinnacle Point Golf Club, in particular, a bucket list course for golfers around the world. The tough course layout and stunning Indian Ocean views regularly see it placed amongst the top ranked courses in Africa and is widely recognised as one of the most scenic golf courses in the world.

After a short journey the team arrived in Knysna for a match against Pezula Golf Club, followed by the opening round of the internal stableford competition at Simola Golf Club. Again, the courses were fantastic. Both Pezula and Simola are ranked in the top 25 in South Africa and offer stunning vistas and challenges for every level of golfer. The final stop saw the team visit George for four days, for the next three rounds of the internal stableford competition with rounds at Kingswood Golf Club, Oubaai Golf Club, and George

Golf Club. Again, all three courses are comfortably ranked in the top 100 courses in South Africa, George in particular is a beautifully set up course that plays tight and tricky. It is also one of the oldest courses in the Africa having been first established in 1886 following an inspirational visit to England.

After returning from the nine-day trip along the Garden Route, the

team completed the final internal competition round at Atlantic Beach Links before the final match of the tour against Erinvale Golf Club. Erinvale was a truly breathtaking course to end the visit on, set against a back drop so perfect it could have been created by CGI. That said it is another very tough golf course where the team had the opportunity to share the fairways with Joe Long, the 2020 English amateur champion, who is currently competing on the Sunshine Tour in South Africa. All the matches were very competitive, and the team was hosted fantastically at every venue throughout the visit. Cpl Darren Smee emerged as the tour champion, scoring 180 points over his five rounds. It was a fantastic trip and preparation for the next OSV will start in 2026 in anticipation of the 2028 tour. RLC Golf is excited for the upcoming season, which already has many events scheduled. The first major event will be held at Belton Park Golf Club on 21 – 22 May. The team’s main focus this year is on recruiting and developing junior and female golfers. A development package is currently being finalised and will be shared with all Regimental Golf Officers once confirmed. All golfers, regardless of skill level, are welcome to join RLC Golf. For more information, please contact WO2 (SSM) Chris Stephenson, Captain RLC Golf, or SSgt Adam Herbert, Secretary RLC Golf.

8 Brigadier

M J Roycroft

3 March 1951 –

4 July 2023

Michael John Roycroft, was born on 9th March 1951, a son to Jean and Jimmy Roycroft. He was one of five siblings: with David, Susie, Sally and Peter his brothers and sisters. He had a happy childhood and recalled his earliest memories of going to live in Hong Kong and returning with younger sister Susie to then live with Auntie Marie, his father’s sister.

He joined the Army straight from school, where he had attended first St Vincent’s and then Finchley Catholic Grammar at secondary level. He had three main loves in his life, his wife Carole Ann, sport and technology! If he wasn’t playing or watching sport, he was in his study coding and building databases for among many others, his family tree and St Raphael’s Hospice.

His love of sport showed throughout his life whether it was: captaining GB schools at basketball, playing ice hockey in Canada, resulting in a broken collar bone, becoming a rugby referee or ocean yacht master - the latter leading to many sailing trips where father and son were able to spend valuable time together.

Mike shared this love of sport with his whole family, although some were more willing than others to share his enthusiasm. Carole Ann may not have enjoyed the multiple 16-hour Heineken cup marathons, interspersed with rugby league games during the breaks, but that commitment to watching translated into endless hours spent watching their family play netball, rugby, hockey and cricket, sometimes with Mike and Carole Ann completing complex route planning and logistical calculations to watch all four of their children in four different locations on the same day. As a working adult when asked how he managed it and… “What did your work say?” He replied jokingly:“I was the boss, who would they tell?”

A very proud sporting achievement of Mike was becoming President of Army Rugby. He took Army Rugby on tour to Japan and proudly helped the Army v Navy matches become the major annual event they now are, impressively increasing the crowds from 18,000 when he started to over 45,000, by opening it up to the public. In recognition of what he achieved, he became a lifetime Army Rugby vice-president, but what pleased him even more was getting his colours from the Army Women’s Rugby team. He had passionately supported them and was instrumental in gaining the funding for them which secured their future.

Mike himself joined the Army in 1969, attending the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and then being commissioned into the Royal Army Ordnance Corps, the same Corps that his father had served in. In later years he would go on to become a member of

the RAOC Council monitoring benevolence and become a very effective Chair of the RAOC Association, a role which he relished. Having been on his Young Officers’ Course he started his career in Germany with the British Army of the Rhine (BAOR). He then applied and went to the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology to carry out a computation degree. He also attended Shrivenham to do an MSc in Information Systems. He loved this specialised learning, and it was core to his future career within in the Army. He was the go-to person for IT related issues.

He once told a story of how some in his IT class were working on a new type of database called a rational database, which doesn’t sound too interesting except that some of those people went on to work at a little know company called Oracle, now one of the bestknown business software companies in the world! Oh, the path not taken..?

IT systems and computing form a thread throughout Mike’s career, beginning in a period when the military were leading the way with logistic and supply chain systems. He had a full range of staff appointments, including a key one in Andover at the time of the creation of the new Royal Logistic Corps in 1993. He also had command jobs, from running the BATUS RAOC repair and training unit in Canada to becoming CO of Ord Services Berlin. He really enjoyed all his jobs, but Berlin was exciting and very different from anything he had done before. He and Carole Ann embraced the role and life in Berlin, entertaining as generous hosts and joining in the international community as much as they felt they could, whilst they both also made sure that they learnt as much as they could about Berlin.They both found the problems being faced by East Berlin very moving and the unit contributed as much as it could to a period of great change with the Cold War ending.

Mike was always looking to explore different jobs and was very pleased when he won the CEO role of the Defence Clothing and Textile Agency on promotion to Brigadier – as he mentioned in a podcast with Paul Sloane, he was the first army officer to be selected for such a job in open competition with civilian applicants. Following that job, after a very interesting four years, he found himself creating the Army Primary Health Care organisation and was its first director: a nonmedical Brigadier leading a group full of doctors.

Mike left the Army in 2004 and went to run Whitley Village in Hersham and he had a very varied nine years there before leaving and realising that he was still keen to carry on working. Therefore, he then found a job as CEO of St Raphael’s Hospice and he said that he felt that this was the best job he had ever

had and he also felt singularly well qualified to do this challenging work. That was because on some days he was sat in boardrooms with government minsters, hospital executives and incredibly wealthy benefactors and 30 minutes later was working with the facility IT system recoding the database.

He loved being retired though that sadly only lasted for two years before he was diagnosed with the cancer in July 2022 that ended his life. He helped schools as a Safeguarding Governor – Salesians in Chertsey and St Augustine’s in Camberley- as well as helping his local parish community with their Safeguarding and setting up their website. He and Carole Ann spent many years working as volunteers with young refugees and always supported their parish’s voluntary work. They both believed in their faith giving them opportunities to help those less fortunate. Mike’s marriage was the centre of his life and he often said that without Carole Ann’s support he wouldn’t have been able to achieve all that he did. They used to help the church with marriage preparation courses, a

better set of role models for how to be happily married, would be hard to find.

Their children, have all felt totally supported in their choices, even the unwise ones, with parents who freely gave advice, love and support and the family miss Mike greatly. The wonderful outpouring of tributes to him through e-mails, telephones calls and letters to the family seemed to have a central theme, that he was a wonderful and perfect gentleman, in every sense of the word.

One of Mike’s favourite phrases to those who worked for him was,“You can’t build a reputation on what you are going to do.”

Mike’s reputation and legacy is based on very real accomplishments and qualities and lives on through his children and grandchildren, who he loved dearly.

Father, husband, friend, Granpa, Papa, Michael, Mike, the Brigadier or just Daddy, everyone who knew him will agree he was much loved and will be sorely missed.

8 Based on the words of Mike's son, Lawrence Roycroft.

LAST POST

Allen - On 9 November 2023, Mr N F Allen RAOC

Barton - On 15 December 2023, Maj RHG Barton

RASC/RCT

Birch - On 25 November 2023, IP PJ Birch RCT

Blanche - On 13 December 2023, Capt WD Blanche

RCT

Bridle - On 6 February 2024, Maj N J Bridle RAOC

Chambers - On 29 March 2024, Mr R Chambers

RAOC

Eyley - On 30 December 2023, Mr JW Eyley

RASC/RCT

Flanagan - On 23 November 2023, Mr S Flanagan

RCT

Gibbs - On 15 February 2024, Mrs S Gibbs

Glasspool - On October 2023, Mr B Glasspool

RASC/RCT

Gulley - On 19 September 2023, Mr SN Gulley RCT

Harper - On 4 December 2023, Mr K Harper RCT

Hawes - On 12 January 2024, Mr MJ Hawes

RASC/RCT

Hoe - On 13 April 2024, Maj C E R Hoe RAOC

Keogh - On 1 March 2024, Mr F J Keogh RAOC

Kier - On 24 December 2023, Maj J Kier TD JP

RASC/RCT

Kilnan - On 17 March 2024, Mr F Kilnan RAOC/RLC

Lake - On 19 December 2023, Mr V Lake RAOC

Leaver - On 14 January 2024, Lt Col J Leaver RASC/RCT

Pallister - December 2023, Mr M Pallister RASC/RCT

Parker - On 12 April 2024, Mr J Parker RAOC

Pollitt - On 12 January 2024, Lt AD Pollitt RASC

Riches - On 18 December 2023, Maj JMR Riches

RASC/RCT

Robertson - On 1 January 2024, Mr S Robertson RCT

Snell - On 12 December 2023, Lt Col PW Snell

RASC/RCT/INT

Spackman - On 4 February 2024, Col S Spackman

KStJ TD DL late RCT

Stringer - On 31 July 2023, Maj AP Stringer TD

RASC/RCT

Swindale - On 27 November 2023, Mr T Swindale

RASC/RCT

Taylor - On 12 January 2024, Mr J Taylor RASC

Thomas - On 4 December 2023, Mr A Thomas RCT

Wallis - On 7 December 2023, Mrs P Wallis

soldier to have trusted source for ‘off parade’ items, with timely delivery. Additionally, RLC Direct will stock items to support the needs of RLC Veterans and Cadet Forces. We want RLC Direct to become a staple of Regimental and Corps life and an Importantly, the more RLC Direct is used, the more money the RLC Association raises, as every sale generates a percentage donation.