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Sustainer THE

Journal of The Royal Logistic Corps ❘ SUMMER 2019

#WeAreTheRLC

Free entr y& Free entry F ree parking Free

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Camping - £5.00 No Caravans or Large Motorhomes

THE ROYAL LOGISTIC CORPS OPEN DAY

Carry on the fun and festivities late into the evening at

THE RLC’S PARTY IN THE PARK 18:00 TIL late • Food stalls • Camping • Beer tent • Top bands & DJs

Saturday 6th July 2019

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Sustainer THE

Corps Motto: We Sustain Regimental March: On Parade by Albert Elms Regimental Slow March: Lion, Sword and Crown by Craig Bywater

formed in 1993

Volume 27 No 2 ❘ Summer 2019

7 10

36 26 28 11

Contents

11 RLC 25 dinner

7 Army Apprentice

12 RLC Pace Sticking

Maj Dean Hammett and LCpl Charlie Phillips recognised at the Army Apprenticeship Awards.

10 Ex Army Sustainer Omani Army chefs are welcome addition to Ex ARMY SUSTAINER.

The RLC looks forward to the next 25 years at the final RLC25 event.

Invented by Gunners, perfected by Guardsmen, the RLC takes on the Pace Stick challenge.

26 Lead First How the best gap-year you’ll ever have, has inspired a career dream of one RLC Reserve officer.

28 Starting Over From Buller Barracks to RESOLUTE, LODESTAR, TELIC and HERRICK. How one injured RLC veteran is conquering his demons.

36 The RLC in the Falklands Our forebears landed in 1982 and we are still there.

42 RLC units Around and about the RLC’s major and minor units.

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A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE An RHQ Perspective

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Turning to the theme of this edition I commend you to read the articles contained herein and learn from the experiences of those authors who have had the misfortune to suffer from physical or mental illness during and following their service

Welcome to the summer issue of The Sustainer. In keeping with the Corps Communications Strategy, we are focusing each iteration of our Corps journal on a specific area. In addition to the usual round up of the impressive contribution’s you have collectively made, this issue will focus on welfare provision. It will shine a light on the support available to all our personnel, serving or retired, regular or reserve. I’d encourage you to ensure that your colleagues and families are aware. It seems like only yesterday that I was putting pen to paper for the foreword for the spring edition; the tempo seems to be increasing as I close in on the final third of my appointment as your Corps Colonel. Some specific highlights since then have seen the final RLC25 event of our anniversary year, 3 Regt covering themselves in glory on the Prairie in Canada and 1 Sqn, 10 QOGLR delivering Public Duties in London.They are taking up almost as many newspaper column inches, as BREXIT (that’s the one and only time I will mention that!). Concurrent to the preparations for its upcoming deployment on Op TOSCA, 27 Regt delivered a ‘knock out’ Corps Boxing championships, where once again the standard was hugely impressive. The period also saw 13 Regt’s boxing team make it to the Army Boxing final where they were narrowly defeated by their arch enemy, 3 PARA, in what was another very competitive evening with bags of courage and sportsmanship on display. The shooting season is also well underway. 10 QOGLR and 152 (Northern Irish) Regt, won the Regular and Reserve FTC OSC competitions respectively. Sgt Surye Gurung (9 Regt) was crowned the overall WO/SNCO winner, best rifle shot winner and runner up on pistol. Best of luck to all competitors at the Army OSC at Bisley in June. The next iteration of the Sustainer will focus on our sporting endeavours and will review the forthcoming Corps Sports Awards Dinner Night, where it is hoped we will have 220 attendees; it promises to be another great Corps evening. May also saw the inaugural RLC Pace Sticking competition in Aldershot, hosted by 27 Regt and delivered by WO1(RSM) Armour. I was impressed

by the skill shown during the competition from our relatively novice teams; we certainly have enough talent to go forward to compete at the International event, held at RMAS. I congratulate everyone who took part and hope this will become an annual Corps event. Turning to the theme of this edition I commend you to read the articles contained herein and learn from the experiences of those authors who have had the misfortune to suffer from physical or mental illness during and following their service. In every case the Corps Charity has supported them and this is only possible because of the Day’s Pay Scheme. The Day’s Pay Scheme is something every officer and solider should be a part of. It supports numerous aspects of military life including sport, AT, Corps events and benevolence. If you are not a member I strongly advise you ask your CoC about how to join. The Corps will see some significant changes during the next ‘term’. The most noteworthy of these will see 25 Regt moving to Leconfield and prepare to deliver the inaugural Combat Logistician Course. It will, prior to commencement of respective Class 3 trade training, provide a foundation for all RLC soldiers as they start their journey with the Corps. We will communicate with you all, through the Chain of Command and your respective Head of Trade, the details of what this will entail. It presents us with a real opportunity, which we must all understand and support. The next Sustainer will be the last produced from Corps HQ here in Deepcut, so it is our intention to provide a review of our time here. If you have some stories and photographs that we could use, please do send them in to the editor. Finally, just a quick word about what is shaping up to be an impressive Corps Open Day (6 July). Due to the impending closure of Deepcut it will take place in South Cerney; this has presented an opportunity to freshen it up with some additional events and activities. I’d like to thank 29 Regt for its overall orchestration and 1 Regt, which is organising the evening’s ‘Party in the Park’. I look forward to seeing you all there. We Sustain C J Francis Colonel RLC

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FROM THE RANKS Summer already – wow! In this edition of “From the Ranks” I would like to address a topic that is very close to my heart and one I believe should be at the forefront of all commanders’ and soldiers’ minds…Welfare. But first, I must mention some notable corps events. In Mar, the Corps closed the RLC25 celebrations, by hosting a Beating Retreat and dinner night at the Guildhall, London. In the presence of HRH, The Princess Royal, MGL and many of our industry partners, the event was a credit to the Corps, thanks to the dedication and commitment of the officers and soldiers, who organised and executed it. The entertainment was, epic! The Kukri display by soldiers of 10 QOGLR was executed to perfection. The Hakka from the Fijian soldiers of 9 Regt RLC made the audience jump but moments later they were soothed by the beautiful voices of these warriors. The event was closed in style by The RLC Band and Corps of Drums, who produced a spectacular finale. Hard to rival, this event will be remembered for years to come. In early May, 13 AASR fought 3 PARA in the Army Boxing finals.To a man, our boxers fought valiantly and courageously, even though some knew they were already defeated.The RLC won three bouts, but 3 PARA prevailed. Many of you watched the final bout online and just when you thought it was all over, LCpl Truepenny dug deep and turned his fight around into a victory for 13 AASR! A week later the Corps Boxing finals were expertly hosted by 27 Regt RLC. 12 bouts of excellent boxing included male and female bouts. Eventually 13 AASR RLC was crowned the overall winner. 6 Regt won best female team and Pte Millington from 27 Regt was crowned best boxer. Congratulations to all our boxers, it has certainly been a great year. I will now turn your attention to welfare. Welfare is a topic that for some reason still carries a stigma.Yet it is perhaps the most important part of any serving person’s life. If we do not understand what factors influence the personal wellbeing of

the officers and soldiers we command, then how can we expect them to fight and win when the chips are down? Welfare is not a dirty word, it is simply what matters to an individual. It is their state of wellbeing, what makes them tick, what drives them and what gets them out of bed each morning. If your personal life is in order, there is less for you to worry about; allowing you to give 100% of yourself to your trade, your team, your commanders and your family. Money matters and debt is currently the number one concern. Everyone has a mobile phone and most, a credit card. Loans are readily available. It is all too simple to use credit to get the nice to haves. However, debt soon mounts up, causing many of us struggle. The constant pressure on young people to have the finest things, results in some of our young officers and soldiers ending up in financial difficulty. More young recruits are joining the Army with existing debt. There is pressure on many serving to send money overseas to relatives that rely on them for support, meaning they struggle themselves. Many re-join the Corps after finding civilian life is different to what they expected and in some cases, individuals return with serious debt issues. Some make matters worse, by turning to pay-day loans or gambling, in an attempt to take control of their debts. I do not have all the answers to these problems, but such is the problem, I must highlight it to increase awareness. If this article resonates with you, there are agencies that you can sign post your officers and soldiers to, should they need help. Details of these are on page 13. For those that are struggling, do not hide. Seek help. It’s no disgrace, because we all need a little help from time-to-time. As a look forward to the autumn edition, I will discuss the One Day Pay Scheme. Enjoy your Summer, I look forward to seeing you while I’m out on my travels. WO1 P S Broom Corps Sergeant Major RLC

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Welfare is a topic that for some reason still carries a stigma. Yet it is perhaps the most important part of any serving person’s life

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THE SUSTAINER | DEFENCE DIGEST

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GLOBAL ADVANCE A snapshot of The RLC across the world

1 8 3 7

ESTONIA

11 Regt 11 Regt has deployed a CSAD in support of Op CABRIT, Estonia. This sees British ammunition technicians at the forefront of a NATO operation, engaging with allied forces at all levels.

4 LECONFIELD

25 Regt This is the last Sustainer to include 85 Sqn and DSU as part of 25 Regt. By the time the next issue publishes in Sept, the Regt will have moved to Normandy Barracks, Leconfield.

BRUNEI

10 QOGLR 2 FRANCE

13 AASR 10 QOGLR has maintained a presence in many theatres, with personnel deployed on Op CATAN and Op FAIRFIELD. In addition to this there has been a continued presence in BATUS, BFSAI and Brunei. 4

13 AASR is preparing for Ex SWIFT RESPONSE, which will be 16 Bde’s priority exercise for 2019. This will see the 3 Para BG deploy to Croatia in June and with it both RHQ and 82 Sqn. Additionally, members of the Regt parachuted into France in Jun for the Normandy 75th anniversary.

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DEFENCE DIGEST | THE SUSTAINER

8 HOLLAND

151 Regt 151 Regt preparations continue for its Level 3 AT expedition Ex FINN GLACIER, a multi event trip in the French Alps, as well as build up training for the Nijmegen marches in Holland.

CYPRUS

27 Regt CYPRUS

156 Regt

6 5 27 Regt is now focussing its efforts towards pre-deployment training for Op TOSCA in Cyprus.

156 Regt is looking to build on its UK-based training with twenty-five personnel deploying on Ex LION STAR (Cyprus) an OTX with 157 Regiment RLC.

MALTA

ARRC Battalion ARRC Support Battalion is preparing for a battalion live fire package and some high-grade adventurous training in Malta and Portugal.

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EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to the summer 2019 edition of The Sustainer. You will see that we have turned our spotlight onto welfare in this edition. Like any other section of society, the Services have their welfare issues. Where these differ from the general public’s experience, are the problems brought on by the stress of prolonged separation from family and combat. And given the number of operational tours servicemen complete now, compared to pre-1990, dealing with the problems associated with physical and particularly, mental injury, are finally rising up the military’s agenda. But as has been highlighted, it’s not all about PTSD. Debt is now the single biggest cause of welfare problems. We hope you find the information and experiences outlined in this issue, useful and interesting. An important part of ensuring wellbeing, is promoting a culture of community and belonging. This comes through good communication. As mentioned in the spring edition, we are striving to improve the way the Corps communicates, both internally and externally and we are developing a brand-new website to help achieve this. We are still a few weeks away from the ‘go-live’ date, but we are pleased to be able to show you a sneak preview of what it will look like and what it contains. And it will be 100% optimised for mobile devices. Follow our social media feeds for updates. On the subject of social media, the Corps accounts

are growing in reach and popularity. Facebook is on the way to 15,000 followers. We have over 4,000 Twitter followers and over 3,200 on Instagram. Please help us to keep up the growth by tagging us, liking and sharing. In late May RHQ The RLC hosted an all Arms & Services social media working group. This was attended by representatives from: Inf, AAC, RA, RE, RSigs, REME and AGC media and engagement teams; plus Army Information and Army Engagement and Communications. While we are all working towards the same principle goal, boosting recruitment and retention, it is apparent that corps and RHQ media teams are often left out of the Army’s communications loop and get little support or guidance. Army HQ left the meeting with a better understanding, that RHQ media teams are actually at the centre of the external communications effort, have a broad reach and are in possession of, or can generate, great content, which could be exploited by the Army. The other big issue is external communications are massively under resourced in terms of people and suitable technology. It was a very positive meeting and there will be more to follow. We hope this open dialogue is the beginning of positive change.

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.

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, Maj R Barrett. Email: Richard.Barrett862@mod.gov.uk Members of the Associations should contact RHQ The RLC’s Personal Information Risk Manager, Shelley Whittaker. Email: Shelley.Whittaker650@mod.gov.uk

Editorial Staff Editor: Peter Shakespeare Assistant Editor: Miss Anne-Marie Causer BA (Hons) Email: rlcsustainer@gmail.com Graphic Design: David Blake Copy deadlines for THE SUSTAINER: 5 Jul 2019, 1 Oct 2019, 10 Jan 2020, 13 Apr 20 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!

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

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

Publisher: The Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps, Dettingen House, The Princess Royal Barracks, Deepcut, CAMBERLEY, Surrey GU16 6RW. Email: peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Tel: +44 (0) 7901 676309

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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.

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

Front Cover: Cover images by: Peter Shakespeare, 152 Regt, Vishal Gurung, Sgt Gary Kendall, Cpl Ben Beale

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HONOURS AND AWARDS | THE SUSTAINER

ARMY APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR 2018 The Army Apprenticeship Apprentice of the Year awards ceremony held at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, saw two RLC representatives awarded for their efforts in Army apprenticeships. Maj Dean Hammett, previously of SO2 Trg Ops, RHQ The RLC, was runner-up in the Apprenticeship Champion category and LCpl Charlie Phillips (29 Regt RLC) was the Intermediate Level 2 Apprentice award runner up. Huge honour Maj Hammett said:“I felt very honoured and humbled to receive the award as this is very much a team effort in delivering The RLC Apprenticeship programme to our soldiers.” In his role as SO2 Trg Ops for The RLC, Maj Hammett has ensured that over 10, 500 soldiers have achieved the various trade courses they need to provide specialist logistic support to the Army. His secondary role has been the delivery of The Army Apprenticeships programme which forms part of the training. Some of his major achievements in this role have included producing an apprenticeship video for The RLC. Maj Hammett has also been tasked with reducing the number of current suspensions due to exercise deployments and operations worldwide.Working closely with the Army’s training provider Pearson TQ he has designed workbooks which can be taken with soldiers allowing them to gather evidence of their training while on deployment. Consequently, suspensions have reduced from over 600 last year to under 300 and is still reducing every month. Col Colin Francis MBE ADC, Corps Col RLC said:“Maj Dean Hammett has been imperious in his support of The RLC Apprenticeship Programme. He uses his great experience and knowledge, gained throughout his Army career, to excellent effect.” “His engagement with the military chain of command has ensured success. The RLC Apprentice offer is extensive offering nine programmes to 1500 soldiers at any one time; the largest by some distance in the Army.” Shining example LCpl Charlie Phillips of 29 Regt enrolled on the Army International Trade & Logistics Operations apprenticeship programme back in 2018. As a Movement Controller he has most recently been deployed on Ex SAIF SAREEA 3, a combined military training exercise between UK and Omani Armed Forces in Duqm, Oman. His role has been to lead a small team of Movement Controllers on multiple movement tasks such as controlling the movement of convoys on the road network, unloading ships and moving personnel and freight by air transport. He said:“Being on this apprenticeship has enabled me to put all that classroom-based knowledge into practice, covering practically every form of movement.” “Whilst being deployed on Ex SAIF SAREEA 3, I have been able to apply all the skills learned on the NVQ, from

8 LCpl Charlie Phillips was the Intermediate Level 2 Apprentice award runner up

completing simple forms to dealing with other agencies whether that be units or customs.” “By being enrolled onto this apprenticeship it has made the movements trade more enjoyable for myself by making sure I cover nearly every aspect of movements. It has developed me into a better leader and tradesman.” Lt Col Colin Munce MBE RLC, CO 29 Regt, said:“For the past year, LCpl Phillips has embraced wholeheartedly every aspect of the Army Apprenticeship Scheme. In doing so he has made a tremendous contribution to the Regiment and has continually showcased the benefits of apprenticeships to his peers and the chain of command.” “There is no other apprentice in this regiment who so embodies what it is to be a modern apprentice. LCpl Phillips deserves formal recognition, not just for his resolute commitment to the Apprentice Scheme, but for reaching a level of professional achievement to which all other apprentices should aspire.”

Congratulations to the following who have received The Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) for distinguished service, or for gallantry in the last quarter: WO1 R Ladell WO1 S Cox WO2 G Ponsford WO1 S Dickinson WO1 M Robertson WO1 D Griffiths WO1 N Watkins WO1 P Gurung WO1 C Jefferys

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THE SUSTAINER | NEWS

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Lord Lieutenants’ certificate WO1 Barry Withers of 243 Sqn 159 Regiment has received a Lord Lieutenants’ certificate from WMRFCA for his services towards the Cadet Association. Mr Withers has been a member of the Reserves for the last 37 years and has worked his way up to the impressive rank of Warrant Officer Class 1. His citation called him “a man of considerable energy who continues to produce results in any area required and always of the highest quality with his forte firmly recruiting and training”. Meanwhile his Regt calls him a great friend and an asset to the Sqn. 8 WO1 Withers receives his citation

RLC PLACEMENT SCHEME WITH LONDON STANSTED The RLC has entered into a new partnership with London Stansted by trialling a military placement scheme to provide serving personnel with civilian work experience at the airport. During the placement, SSgt Lisa Rokoyadre from 13 Air Assault Support Regiment (13 AASR), will work with the airport team to support its busy operation and skill share while seeing first-hand what goes on behind the scenes to keep the airport running smoothly. “The opportunities for serving military personnel to engage with commercial organisations such as London Stansted are rare but very significant,” said SSgt Rokoyadre. “The project I am currently supporting has given me elements of both personal and professional development. It’s also provided ‘a look

8 SSgt Lisa Rokoyadre from 13 AASR is working on an industrial placement at London Stansted

at life’ within the civilian sector as ultimately, at the end of my military career, I hope to make a smooth transition to civilian employment.” The initiative, in conjunction with

RLC sporting achievements The RLC has received several sporting achievements worthy of note since Sep 18: Hockey: The Men’s team won the indoor hockey InterCorps Championship. Skiing: 6 Regt RLC won The Princess Marina and are the Army Alpine Champions and Runners Up Army Nordic. 1 Regt RLC are the Inter-Service and Army Nordic Champions and are Runners Up in The Princess Marina. Triathlon: Capt Matthews won Ironman Barcelona as fastest amateur. He now has a slot at the World Championships in 2019 (ICSC(L) permitting). Rugby Union: RLC(W) won the season opening festival of rugby and the ARU(W) Champs. Nine players represented Army ‘A’ and there were four players in the Army Senior team. 8

Colchester Barracks and the first of its kind at any UK airport, will also enable airport operational teams to learn from the army’s considerable investment in staff training. In 2017, London Stansted became the first airport in England to pledge support for the Armed Forces community and their families by signing up to the UK Armed Forces Covenant. Last year it was awarded the prestigious Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme Silver award to reflect its support for serving and ex-military personnel and reservists. External placements in Industry form part of the Army’s Maximising Talent initiative which aim to provide military personnel with exposure to civilian industry in order to develop and broaden their knowledge, skills and experience.

Enduro: SSgt Hicks won a gold medal representing Great Britain at the World six-day Enduro Championships in Chile. LCpl Childs won the Army championship (Female) and finished 7th in the British Enduro Championship (Female). LCpl Robb won the Best RLC rider at the Army Champs and won the Expert Enduro category in NI. Pte Mack won the Army Championships (Reserves). Martial Arts: BJJ - Two RLC competitors represented the Army team at the IBJJF European Championships in Lisbon in Jan 19. Cpl Leon Hinds won Silver in his weight category before going on to win Gold in the Open weight category. Basketball: The RLC won all three titles at the Inter Corps in Nov 18. This was the first time that any Corps or Service has ever achieved a clean sweep. This also coincided with the men winning the Army title for the third year running and the women for the fourth consecutive year.

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

BRITISH AIR MAIL SERVICE CENTENARY COVERS

ATO embarks on epic cycle ride for charity At the time of press, Ammunition Technical Officer, Captain James Wadsworth of 421 EOD & Search Squadron, was due to set out on an epic 570-mile cycle ride to raise money for bomb disposal charity,The Felix Fund. He and a team of 20+ riders, aim to pedal from Edinburgh to Windsor and then on to Cardiff covering the distance in four days, in the Tour de Troops The Castles challenge 2019. The challenge, taking place from 5 to 8 Jun, will take in the sights of Edinburgh,Windsor and Cardiff Castle.

A special reception at Cardiff Castle is due to be held in the banqueting hall to celebrate completing the ride and will include a performance from the Welsh Male Voice Choir and a three-course dinner. To donate to the challenge visit https://www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/tourdetroops-thecastles Meanwhile, The Felix Festival 2019 is taking place on 7 September 2019 near Reading. It is also in aid of the Felix Fund, with the previous two events raising in excess of £45,000. More information about the festival is available at Felix Festival

LATEST RECRUITS TO PASS OUT AT PIRBRIGHT

The RLC has welcomed 12 recruits, the latest to pass out from the Army Training Regiment, Pirbright on 3 May. The OC of The RLC Corps Engagement Team, Captain Hattie Bennett and WO1 RSM Ritchie Armour, were both present at the

event.WO1 RSM Ritchie Armour said:“It is great to see such a diverse group of young people embarking on an exciting, challenging career in the British Army and the Corps that focuses on trades qualifications and continued professional development.”

To mark the centenary of the first International British Air Mail Service,The British Forces Philatelic Service (BFPS) has published a commemorative cover featuring the original oil painting “First Air Mail” by Terence Cuneo. An international British Air Mail Service was first proposed in Jul 1917. Following trials jointly carried out by the RAF and the Royal Engineers (Postal Section), a regular air mail service was set up and began to operate between Folkestone and Cologne on 1 Mar 1919. Its purpose was to provide troops of the British Army stationed in Germany with a fast mail service. As well as the standard cover, there are three signed limited editions available, all of which will help raise funds for The RLC Benevolent Fund. These limited editions are signed by: Colonel AD Moffat OBE – Head, British Forces Post Office, Wing Commander Tim Brookes BA (Hons) MA RAF – Officer Commanding 18 (Bomber Squadron) (a descendant of one of the original squadrons participating in the airmail service) and Jacqueline Pearce-Gervis, Daughter of Flight Lieutenant Leslie Pearce – 120 Squadron RAF. Lt Pearce was one of the original pilots who took part in the air mail service and it’s suggested he’s also the pilot in the painting shown on the cover. The covers can be ordered from the BFPS online shop (www.bfps.org.uk/shop) or by post by sending a cheque (payable to ‘BFPS CIC’) to BFPS,The Old Post Office, Links Place, Elie, LEVEN, KY9 1AX. BFPS is a registered Community Interest Company (CIC) working closely with the British Forces Post Office (BFPO).

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THE SUSTAINER | NEWS This year the annual Army-wide catering competition Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 19 welcomed a team from the Royal Army of Oman, who competed in the Improvised class where they came second. In addition, the Omani Army got involved in the Field class, two Grand Prix teams, one Live Pasta entry and one Live Hot Dessert entry. It was great to see them get involved in so many classes, producing excellent dishes. International teams are always welcome at the event to show-off their skills. Meanwhile, competition was fierce across all the catering classes. In the Static class, exquisite cake decoration or sculptural skill, imagination and incredible design was demonstrated in all the entries. A huge part of the competition involves improvisation. Whereas in the kitchen at home you cook a meal with a gas/electric hob and an oven, in Ex ARMY SUSTAINER chefs are challenged to cook a meal for 20 people using a self-made system. They have to improvise with their very basic kit and equipment and see what they can come up with. And as always,

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Ex ARMY SUSTAINER welcomes Omani Army

incredible meals were cooked on the most basic of equipment. This year, Michelin star awarded chef, Sat Bains, joined the chefs and shared his thoughts on cooking and the inspiration behind the development of his dishes and what

Catering for the Ten Tors Challenge

8 The Ten Tors Challenge weekend saw Reserve chefs from across the South West come together

Challenge was the theme over the Ten Tors Challenge weekend which brought together over 2000 young people (mainly cadets) in teams of six on Dartmoor National Park for a 10

weekend of hiking to ten specified tors. During the weekend, Reserve chefs from across the South West came together to receive tuition from two expert Artisan Bakers, one of whom

drives him to strive for excellence. Thanks go to him for his superb demonstration of his "Lenton Lane" dish, (the Sat Bains take on a rocky road was inspired by the notoriously bumpy road to his restaurant in Nottingham) and all of his insights. was The RLC’s very own WO2 Mark Provan, who is a Reservist with 165 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC. Mark was joined by Mr David Berry, a lecturer from South Devon College. Training like this arms army chefs with skills that enable them to cater for large numbers of troops, as well as fine dining. The chefs produced a wide range of mouth-watering breads including; Pain de Campagne, spelt loaves and Italian Focaccia. All the breads were served later at a lunch held for VIPs visiting the Ten Tors Challenge. During the Ten Tors Challenge itself, teams navigate routes of 35, 45, or 55 miles depending on age. The teams are self-sufficient and must carry all that they require to complete the route. This year 39th Signal Regiment – The Skinners – were providing the ground to air support comms, as well as supporting the comms from the Tors to the Ops Room. Well done to everyone involved for making this yet another incredible weekend for all those in the Army Cadet Force.

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GUILDHALL DINNER | THE SUSTAINER

RLC25 draws to a fitting close at the Guildhall in London the Band of The RLC and was followed by 450 plus diners sitting down to a fabulous five course meal in the banqueting hall of this historic building. During the evening we were entertained by the Corps of Drums, the Fujian Choir and the Gurkha Khukris Dance. HRH The Princess Royal was in attendance along with MGL, Lt Gen Sir Mark Poffley KCB OBE. It was a fitting end to our anniversary year and an opportunity to celebrate The RLC's bright future.

Photography; Sgt Nolan, Sgt Kendall

On 21 Mar 19 members of The RLC gathered to bring to a close RLC25 and look to the next 25 years and beyond. The event was the inspiration of the Colonel RLC, Col Colin Francis MBE ADC and took place at the Guildhall in the City of London. The guest list reflected the joint environment within which military logisticians now work, not only other arms and services but also the civilian and contractual component. The evening commenced with a Beating Retreat by

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE

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The RLC Pace Stick Competition On Wednesday 22 May, six teams from The RLC and one guest team from the Welsh Guards, gathered at Gale Barracks in Aldershot to compete in the inaugural Corps Pace Stick competition. The use of the Pace Stick in the British Army dates back over 200 years and was first used by the Royal Regiment of Artillery to establish the correct distance between guns in a gun line. The Pace Stick was adopted by the Foot Guards as a means for measuring the correct marching pace, the distance between ranks and the distance between a soldier’s heels when stood at ease. In 1928 the Academy Sergeant Major at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, WO1 Arthur Brand GG, developed a specific set of drill instructions for the use of a Pace Stick and shortly afterwards held a competition between RMAS instructors and the Guards Training Company. This tradition of pace sticking has continued, has spread to other armies and now it even has its own world championships, held each year at RMAS. A team consists of four: three stickers and a driver. The driver issues commands and marches to the rear. They complete a series of static drill movements using the stick and march along a ‘runway’ in slow and quick time, using their sticks to keep the correct pace and changing sticks while on the move. The competition also includes an inspection for turnout. While RLC RSMs carry Pace Sticks as a badge of authority, they are not used in drill to the same extent as is found in the Infantry or Household Division. Staging a pace sticking competition was the brain child of WO1 (RSM) Richard Armour. Having served as a Platoon Staff Sergeant at RMAS and as an SSM at ATC Pirbright, he is an experienced sticker and has competed in the 12

8 1 Regt receives its prize from the Col RLC

8 Best driver award

8 ATC Pirbright on the runway

8 Best sticker award

8 RSM Armour with CSM Reid

world championships. He felt the competition was a good way of introducing full use of the Pace Stick to the Corps as a whole, a way of improving drill standards and a competitive spirt between RLC units on the drill square. Competing in The RLC’s very first Corp competition were teams from: 1 Regt RLC, 4 Regt RLC, 6 Regt RLC, 13 AASR, 27 Regt RLC, ATC Pirbright and 85 Sqn from DCLPA. The winning team was 1 Regt, with 13 AASR coming a gallant second. Cpl Greenhalgh from 1

Regt won the Best Sticker award and WO2 (SSM) Hickey from 13 AASR won Best Driver. At the prize giving, the Colonel RLC, Col Colin Francis congratulated WO1 (RSM) Armour for conceiving and organising an excellent first event, 27 Regt RLC for hosting and thanked the judges: Capt Falls RLC 16 Air Assault Brigade and WO2 (CSM) Reid SG RMAS and Military Masterpieces for their generous sponsorship of the event. We look forward to seeing the event become part of the Corp calendar.

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WELFARE | THE SUSTAINER

Help! When you need somebody… Large training units see a large throughput of personnel every year. In the case of units delivering Phase 1 and 2 training, their welfare teams are in the front line and are very well trained and experienced. The welfare SNCO at the Deepcut Support Unit is Sgt Dave Heron MBE. He and the welfare team deal with multiple cases from across rank and age ranges. The Sustainer asked Sgt Heron to give an overview of current issues. He says: “Debt management and management of soldiers from the Commonwealth are the two biggest issues we deal with currently. We see this from the recruitment stage, through training all the way to NCOs returning for training from the Field Army. We see a lot of soldiers joining the Army having been in care. They are not obliged to disclose this, so we only find out when something goes wrong. The reasons why they were in care could be abuse or a number of complex issues. In the Field Army the Chain of Command (CoC) needs to be aware and must gain an understanding of how this can affect people in later life. Children in care, get no guidance about money and this group readily gets into debt. “The new Future Accommodation Model threatens to be a big issue. If individuals are in debt and get court orders, or have poor credit history, this may affect them getting approval to rent a house. To give you an idea of the frequency where debt is the underlying case of a welfare case, 50% of cases I deal are caused by financial issues of some type. For young British soldiers it is normally car finance. For those in their 30s its marriage break up and for Commonwealth soldiers it is family. If they are the eldest child and culturally are responsible for their family, they end up sending too much money back home. This is something the CoC must be aware of and understand, as it’s not something we can change, but it can be managed. “And the fact that there are increasing numbers of soldiers from the Commonwealth serving, means

commanders at all levels need to appreciate the time differences and that there will be odd times of day, to them, when these soldiers need time to contact their families. Because they are often older, this can mean they have wives and children thousands of miles away. “Mental health issues are a problem and there is stigma attached to them because you cannot see the wound. Some are PTSD, but also work-related stress, tragedy in people’s personal life or abuse in early life, are common.” Sgt Heron makes the point that while background checks are carried

WELFARE RESOURCES • Primary Level – Chain of Command, Regimental Career and Management Officer, Unit Welfare Officer, Padre, HIVE, Regimental Admin Officer and Medical Officer. • Secondary Level – Community support facilities, Relate, local authority support (UK), Army Education Centre, Army Families Federation, Army Welfare Service (AWS), British Forces Social Work Service (Overseas), Homestart, and Confidential support line. • Forces Charities – RLC Association, Royal British Legion, SSAFA, Help for Heroes, Blind Veterans UK, Benevolent Fund, Combat Stress and ABF (The Soldiers’ Charity).

out on potential recruits, under the rules on privacy of information, individuals do not have to disclose certain things. If they do, confidentiality must be respected and if there is a need to pass this up the CoC, their permission must be forthcoming, and this must be recorded. He adds that in circumstances where a soldier does disclose confidential personal information, which can often be because they simply want to talk to someone about it - and their performance is unaffected - no action is required other than, record it maintaining confidentiality. He also makes the point that while the Army has been geared up to integrate the Nepalese culture for decades, there is far less understanding of Indian, African or Caribbean cultures and this can create issues. He continues: “When I came to Deepcut in 2017, 80% of Phase 2s were Commonwealth. None of the new Troop Commanders or Corporals had experience or understanding of their cultural needs, so had to be educated. It didn’t mean they treated these soldiers differently, but there was a requirement to understand them, so they could manage them correctly. Management of welfare issues often breaks down because of confidentiality, stigma and approachability. I hear this from returning NCOs when I brief them. Some say they will never go to unit welfare because of it. The result is people either suffer in silence or crack. The Army Welfare Service will deal with cases on an independent basis, but only once they have been referred by the unit. This can be initiated by their CoC or any superior they trust. If they don’t want to speak directly to their unit CoC, there are other options, such as the Padre, the MO, SAFFA or the local HIVE, who can act as an intermediary. This is especially important for partners to know, who could be suffering at home. The most important message is, if you need to talk to someone and ask for help, do it. There is no disgrace in this and no stigma attached.”

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC WEBSITE

#WeAreTheRLC

The new Royal Logistic Corps website Sneak preview A brand-new website for the Corps is in the advanced stages of development. The core focus of the new site is The RLC today and sends a clear message about who we are and what we do. The overarching purpose of the new website is to help boost soldier and officer recruitment and to clearly set out our career paths and opportunities. Its principle call to action is ‘JOIN US’. For those already serving in The RLC, and in particular for the 40% who are detached to other cap badges and our veterans, it will also become an information hub to help them stay in touch and to contribute to our story. The design visuals shown here are what the pages will look like on a desktop computer. But the website will be fully optimised for mobile devices and is being

developed so pages load quickly, and navigation is straightforward. The pages are designed to play video and these windows will be activated where appropriate. 8 The home page The home page header will hold scrolling images or a video. Mid page navigation will direct viewers to some of the key areas of the website. Our social media feeds will be displayed throughout the website. Within the news section there will be an image gallery in addition to information of what is going on around the Corps and our main events.

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RLC WEBSITE | THE SUSTAINER

8 Who We Are and Careers Within this section are pages listing our regular and reserve units. A brief description on each accessed from a grid of unit emblems will link to the unit pages on the Army website. There are also pages for The RLC Association, The RLC Foundation and a page giving information about the Cadet Forces. The biggest section is devoted to careers, both soldier and officer, regular and reserve. Visitors will be able to access information of career and professional development opportunities and see in detail the career ladders for all of our 16 trades.

corps fixtures and details about adventurous training activities, contacts and resources.

8 Sport and Adventurous Training Sport and AT is a massive part of corps and army life. The website will include information about all our sporting activities, the annual RLC Sports Awards,

Next steps There has already been an enormous amount of input from stakeholders to get us to this point in the design and development process. We are still collating and refining content. The aim is to commence user testing at the end of Jun 19. Once all feedback has been actioned we hope to be in a position to go live a few weeks after this. Look out for updates and announcements on the RHQ The RLC Facebook page.

8 Community and Heritage We are hugely proud of our past and care greatly for those no longer serving. Within the Support section of the site is information on the activities of The RLC Association Trust, The RLC Benevolence Fund, on welfare resources and our Forming Corps Associations. There is an entire section dedicated to The RLC Museum, its collections, services and activities.

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THE SUSTAINER | CAREER MANAGEMENT

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YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL Career management team RLC soldiers - SO1: Lt Col Stewart SO2: Maj Brown WO1: WO1 Adams A message from the SO1 Soldiers

SSgt to Cpl. The locations and the break down of these posts can be seen on the table below.

Welcome to the APC page of the summer edition of The Sustainer. I hope that you enjoyed the new format and continue to find the information provided of use. In this edition, we have concentrated on opportunities at Phase 1 and Phase 2 training establishments. We are always looking for volunteers to serve in these vitally important roles, so if interested, please read on. The next edition will concentrate on recruiting opportunities.

IDENTIFICATION SJAR – Instructor recommendations. It is vitally important that 1ROs and 2ROs identify talent for these critical posts as early as possible. Prior to making SJAR recommendations the CoC must ensure that the soldier is keen and willing to serve in a Phase 1 or 2 training establishment; this should be annotated at both 1RO and 2 RO on the soldier’s annual report. Recommendations must not be made with the sole intent of raising the profile of an individual at the board; individuals should genuinely want to do the job. Those selected to become an instructor at a Phase 1 or 2 training establishment on a promotion board will be directed into a post that is specific to their recommendations from their Instructor Development Cadre (IDC) report.

8 Do you remember basic training? Are you ready for a challenge? The RLC has a wide range of opportunities to serve at both Phase 1 and Phase 2 Trg establishments as an Instructor or PTI. Currently there are 176 RLC tied posts throughout Phase 1 and 2 establishments, rank ranged from Location

SSgt posts

Sgt posts

Cpl Posts

AAPTI Cpl

ATC (P)

2 (ASLS)

ATFC(W)

AFC(H)

ATC(G)

25 Regt RLC

85 Sqn RLC

TSU (Worthydown)

SUMMER 2019 – Key Dates Soldiers Key Dates

Event

Action

30 Jun

WO2 & WO1 SJAR due

Warrant Officers, have you had your SJAR?

2-4 Jul & 9-11 Jul

LCpl-Cpl Board sits

No action required.

25 Jul

LCpl-Cpl Board results

Find the results on MS Web, under Board Proceedings at 0900hrs.

1 Aug

Pte SJARs to APC

Ptes, get on JPA and confirm your SJAR has been finalised. If not go and see your boss today!!!

31 Aug

WO2 & WO1 SJARs to APC

Warrant Officers, get on JPA and confirm your SJAR has been finalised.

2-5 Sept

LE Commissioning Board sits

No action required.

9-12 Sept

Pte – LCpl Board sits

No action required.

17-18 Sept RCMO Conf

Any points for your CM? Get them to your RCMO to take to Glasgow. Not in an RLC Unit and think your RCMO should be included in the conf? e-mail us and let us know (APC-CSS-RLCSldrs-Sect1a-SO3)

Should a JNCO subsequently fail the IDC or voluntarily withdraw from the instructor preparation process he or she will be deselected. It is therefore incumbent on 1ROs and 2ROs to ensure that their recommendations match the personal aspirations of the individual. This will enable The RLC to assign soldiers with appropriate KSE to suitable positions in accordance with the Army Manning Priorities and other imperatives; this not only meets the needs of the service, but also aids the development and progression of the individual.

DRIVERS! Ever thought about being a Staff Car Driver? Contact your RCMO, you could fill one of the posts: WO2 x1; SSgt x2; Sgt x5; Cpl x13; LCpl x5 SELECTION AND TRAINING Initial identification. At each LCpl – Cpl Promotion Board individuals who demonstrate the potential to be effective ARITC Instructors are identified and their details are captured by the APC. WO1 RLC Sldrs, who manages the Corps’ training posts in ARITC, then selects the individuals who are selected for promotion to serve within the Phase 1 & 2 environment. Those selected will be published on the promotion board with an asterix next to their name. Those selected should then be loaded onto the IDC by RHQ RLC. The IDC is a seven-day course run three times a year by Command Wing, DLS and will further assess the individuals’ suitability as an ARITC instructor. It is not a select out process, it is used more as a check zero prior to assignment. Individuals will be graded highly competent, competent or not competent. After a firm recommendation at IDC, the CoC will then be requested to load these

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CAREER MANAGEMENT | THE SUSTAINER

DIDyouKNOW Chefs: The courses below must be completed before you’re eligible to board for promotion: Pte - LCpl Chef Class 2 LCpl – Cpl Chef Class 1 Cpl – Sgt Production Supervisors Cse Sgt – SSgt UCM Cse WO2 – WO1 FSWO Cse individuals onto further instructors’ courses and consider attaching them to a training wing, to further develop their instructional skills.

OFFICERS’ CAREERS Career Management Team: SO1: Lt Col Collins SO1 LE: Lt Col Howard SO2a (Jnr Majs): Maj Bratcher SO2b(Snr Majs): Maj Cooke SO2c (Capts): Maj Marples SO2d (Lts/TACOS): Miss Motherwell Which appointment board are you due to run to? Your Future Availability Date (FAD) dictates the appointment board that you will run to for your next assignment. Each of the appointment boards covers set ‘assignments windows’ which are detailed below. Hence if you are a Captain and your FAD is 20 Jun 20 and due to run to a staff appointment then you will run to the autumn No 5 Grade 3 Appts Board. Board and offer Following ECAB direction, board and offer (B&O) is being introduced for conversion from an Intermediate Regular Commission (IRC) to a Regular Commission (Reg C). This will be introduced on ASB) 2019 and applies to both DE and LE Officers. 2018DIN01-151 provides the details and should be read in conjunction with a separate direction from RHQ The RLC, the latter detailing the criteria required to enable RLC DE Capts to be considered at ASB 19 onwards. B&O for SSC to IRC remains extant and therefore there is no longer a requirement for any officers to apply for conversion of commission. The RLC ASB will convene 18 Sep 19, due publication 7 Nov 19.

Mandatory Filtering Checks. Having been identified as potential ARITC Instructors, APC will then initiate a 'Red Cap' check (RMP filter) and DBS check. Anyone failing these mandatory checks will not serve in ARITC. A sanity check by the CoC prior to any Instructor recommendation being given should be carried out. Further Training. At the same time as issuing assignment orders or prior to, WO1 RLC Sldrs will also centrally load individuals onto the two-week All Arms Skill at Arms Instructor (AASAA) course.

In addition to the AASAA course individuals must attend an eight-day Defence Train the Trainer (DTTT) course held at the ARITC Staff Leadership School (ASLS) prior to taking up an appointment as an instructor. Individuals are encouraged to attend as many additional courses as possible (Drill Instr, MATT 3 Instr, CBRN Instr), prior to assuming their ARITC employment, to improve their employability and military knowledge. More Information can be found at Corps Instruction H14.

Key Dates

Event

Action

8-10 July

LEOCAB

Follow instructions in 2018 DIN 01-022, DEC 2018

15-19 July

Unit Visits (South)

Wait out for the calling notice from your formation HQ and then book the date with interview.

23-24 July

No 2 Appt Board

7 Aug

PTC Board

Calling notice was distributed Easter 2019. Ensure that all MS is at the APC well ahead of the board date.

8 Aug

SCRD Appt Board

Calling notice was distributed Easter 2019. Ensure that all MS is at the APC well ahead of the board date.

3 Sept

ICB/SCB

Ensure that all MS is at the APC well ahead of the board date. Noting that finalisation of reports is required after submission of the reports.

4 Sept

Arms Selection Board (LE Commissioning)

6 Sept

Reserve ICB/SCB

17-18 Sept

No 2 Appt Board

18-20 Sept

Arms Selection Board (Change of Commission)

Follow instructions in 2018 DIN 01-151, for Reg C policy change.

24-26 Sept

No 5 Gr3 Winter Appt Board

Complete updated job specs and PPPs as stated from CM and keep your eye on updated jobs list.

Grade/Rank

Appt Board Spring

No 5 Grade 3 OF2/Capts

1 Aug-31 Dec

No 5 Grade 2 OF3/Majs

1 Aug-31 Dec

No 4 Grade 1 OF4/Lt Cols

1 Oct-31 Dec

Initial Grade 2 Summer

Autumn

Winter

1 Jan-31 Jul Mar-Jul

1 Jan-30 Apr

1 May-31 Aug

1 Jan-31 Mar 1 Apr-30 Jun 1 Jul-30 Sep

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THE SUSTAINER | CAREER MANAGEMENT

#WeAreTheRLC

MS Terminology and Updates: What is the difference between E1 and E2? E1. E1 appointments are cap badge specific and so for the RLC, these are appointments that can only be filled by an RLC officer or soldier. As per E2 posts, the E1 posts are prioritised by each TLB, however they are filled/appointed based on RLC manning prioritisation and availability. E2. In the main these appointments can be filled by any cap badge, however there may be a preference stated such as combat support preferred etc. Applying for an E2 post carries greater risk of a directed assignment due to army manning prioritisation. Types of standing boards at the APC Standing boards are routine boards with a set format. The three main types of standing boards are: 8 Promotion. Promotion boards select officers and soldiers for promotion to the next rank. These boards review and score service

personnel (SP) appraisal reports in comparison with peers and place SP in an order of merit. The score may be used to inform a subsequent career manager decision for an individual. In certain cap badges, soldier promotion boards may also be the authority to select soldiers for specified appointments. 8 Terms of service. Terms of service boarding is a process where the output affects the SP commitment. The Army Engagement Board deals with all amendments to terms and conditions of service (TACOS), including commissioning, conversion of commissions, PVRs, career intermissions, flexible service, transfers and reinstatements. 8 Appointment. Appointment boards are convened to select the most appropriate SP for an appointment, considering the requirements of the job specification (JS), SP, knowledge skills and

Free entry F ree entr y& Free F ree parking

Gates open at 12:00

experience (KSE) together with career profile and preferences. In conjunction with promotion grading boards, appointment boards can also be the authority for promotion. Boards assure the authority of aspects of the broader appointing process, particularly in the case of submitted E1 staff proposals. It must be noted that not all army appointment decisions are subject to the boarding process; most routine selections in the soldier and junior officer areas are conducted out with any formal board. Other standing boards include: • APC E1 boards. • Unit and regimental boards. The MS binding principle Remember that all appointing follows the rule of the MS binding principle: The needs of the Army must come first: those of officers, soldiers and their families must come a close second. In the next edition, we will detail APC E1 RLC boards for regimental duty. FR

#PARTY IN THE PARK #WEARETHERLC

Camping - £5.00 No Caravans or Large Motorhomes

18:00 TIL late • Food stalls • Camping • Beer tent • Top bands & DJs

Saturday 6th July 2019

WHAT’S WHA AT’S ON? us Pipes plus Massed Bands plu

& Drums

t n h i e y P tr

JOIN US AT THE RLC CORPS OPEN DAY

SATURDAY 6TH JULY 2019

Duke of Gloucester Barracks, South Cerney, Nr Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 5RD

Duke of Gloucester Barracks South Cerney, Nr Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 5RD

Military capabi lit lity y demonstr tra atio tion n

The Silver Silver Stars Stars parachute parachute display team The RL RLC C Endur uro o motorcy cyc cle le display team Equessttr ria ian disp lay Spor ts

TIMINGS: Corps Open Day 12:00 - 17:00 Party in the Park 18:00 - late

Reoffender Operation 77 DJ Just Caveill The Decade Doctors

F Farmer’s armer ’s mark market, et, ffood ood s stands tands & rrefreshments efreshments

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TR Y

Camping - £5.00 No Caravans or Large Motorhomes

THE RLC’S PARTY IN THE PARK

ark

THE ROYAL LOGISTIC CORPS OPEN DAY

Carry on the fun and festivities late into the evening at

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Food stalls Camping Beer tent

#WeAreTheRLC

DSL | THE SUSTAINER

The Defence School of Logistics Commandant: Col John Atkins As in previous issues of The Sustainer, we have included a range of updates from across the school, covering the activities of the staff, several of our courses and changes to training. In the first quarter of 2019 the school’s instructors have also led the way in fuel capability innovation and deployed to Afghanistan to deliver catering training to the Afghan Army. We have also welcomed Lt Col Andy Moss as the new chief instructor of Command Wing: his first task was to take responsibility for the delivery of RLC and AGC CLM training with effect from 1 Apr 19.

8 Command Wing staff and Tp Comds’ Cse 779 discuss the battle for Vimy Ridge at the Canadian WW1 memorial in France

Command Wing (Deepcut) Chief Instructor – Lt Col Andy Moss OBE RLC The Troop Commanders Course – Broadening horizons: Every four months, Sandhurst produces a collection of young officers and it falls to the staff at the Troop Commanders’ Course (TCC) to mould these individuals into leaders, ready to send out into the Corps. Like most courses TCC 79) proved to be a steep learning curve for many and built on the basic skills taught at Sandhurst. Preparing the new TCs for life in their new units, includes some notable challenges, including Ex TIMBER TRUSS (supported by 4 Regt RLC) on Salisbury Plain. It provides the new 2Lts the first opportunity to put into practise the theory they have learned in the classroom: the exercise was a success with the new officers learning a huge amount. Ex TT includes the planning and execution of distribution points, as well as the running of a field storage area and a Sqn ops room. The escalation of activity by the OPFOR meant that by the end the 2Lts were able to appreciate the challenges of this kind of operation in the field. With the exercise complete, it was time to develop the students' understanding of the conceptual component, so the TCC embarked on a battlefield study, focusing on the battles of the Somme. The group explored the different challenges facing FM Haig and his troops in Belgium and France between 1916 and 1918: This was an eye-opening

experience for most, as the sheer scale of the challenges faced put our current problems into perspective. Split into syndicates, the 2Lts each gave a presentation on an aspect of the conflict with topics including: trench warfare logistics, the invention of tank warfare, the impact of the battle and the last 100 days of the war. Understanding the ground and how it affected what soldiers did and why commanders made certain decisions was extremely valuable. Similarly, seeing the dedication of the local population to acts of remembrance was very moving and the course took part in the nightly vigil at the Menin Gate: the fallen are not forgotten here! With the help of a professional historian and drawing on the school staff’s experience of recent operations, the 2Lts were able to gain a greater understanding of the factors affecting each campaign: More importantly they should recognise the vital importance of continuing to learn from history and gaining an appreciation of geography throughout their careers. A new clutch of Troop Commanders is heading out into the huge variety of RLC units. Meanwhile, the DS are looking forward to a short break before continuing to refine the course and work on their own professional development. 73 Training Sqn (Marchwood) OC Maj Ed Rosevink RLC 73 Sqn’s port operations department has delivered courses on various MHE platforms, mobile cranes and ships’ cranes. Three Port Ops, who successfully completed the ships’ crane course (aboard Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Lyme Bay) have been awarded Regulated Qualification Framework (RQF) by the Defence Awarding Organisation (DAO). The department also upgraded soldiers from 17 Regt to Class 1 Port Op and six new soldiers qualified as Class 3 Port Ops. The maritime operations department delivered Class 3 training to soldiers joining 17 Regt and to reservists from 165 Regt RLC, while also delivering Class 2 Mariner upgrades for soldiers from 17 Regt. The Sqn is working towards the accreditation of all Mariner courses with RQFs as well as supporting RHQ The RLC to develop a Mariner apprenticeship level 3 for the trade. The VSS department delivered Class 3 and Class 1 upgrade courses as well as Cat H (tracked) and Cat G (road roller) licence acquisition. The Sqn continues to deliver other courses; SSgt Sammy

8 RLC Mariner Class 3 course delivered by Sgt Sallie Black. 7 trainees successfully completed the course: 6 were Voluntary Transferees. L-R Pte Emmanuel Kusi, LCpl Stephen Jenkinson, Sgt Sallie Black (Instructor), Pte David Monaghan, LCpl Sebastian Haywood, LCpl Michael Herne, Pte Phillip Booth, LCpl Nathen Keys

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THE SUSTAINER | DSL Taylor, SI VSS, has been delivering Cat D (minibus) licence acquisition training to members of DSL (LSTW and FSTW) and 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC to enhance capability. Our PTI, Mr Dan Turner, has been conducting studies and determining the best approach to incorporate the new Physical Employment Standards (PES) into Sqn PT to ensure trainees and staff are ready for the new challenges. Outside of work Cpl Jay Northall, one of the Sqn’s VSS instructors, had the privilege of attending the RLC 25 dinner night at London’s Guildhall with WO1 (Conductor) Davies. Cpl Northall said it was a “great experience” and it was fantastic that our JNCOs could represent their trade and be recognised in this manner. Cpl Adrian Trevenna, Sqn Duty of Care NCO, worked closely with 17 Regt’s welfare team to arrange for Phase 2 trainees to see the latest offering in the ‘Movie Machine’: they got a break from training and saw a newly released film in the barracks at no cost. Capt Mark Watson, 73 Sqn 2IC, delivered Ex DIAMOND SNOWPLOUGH, enabling 24 people to qualify with Ski Foundation Level 1 and 2. Food Services Training Wing (Worthy Down) Chief Instructor Lt Col Fletch Fletcher RLC Food Services Training Squadron (Land) (FSTS(L)) has delivered a range of courses including: Chef Class 1, Production Supervisor, Unit Catering Manager, Royal Navy Field Skills and Defence Chef Basic (DCB – Army Class 3). Food Services Training Squadron (Air) (FSTS(A)) has delivered a Catering Managers course, Supervisors and Advanced Skills courses for both caterer and chefs as well as basics courses for both trades. Outside of the normal training regime, opportunities have been taken to develop and enhance the team’s skills including a three-week instructor standardisation package delivered by Mr Alan Starling and Mr Phil Birnie to ensure that all the newlyassigned staff know what standard is expected when delivering the DCB course. Game preparation and bread making workshops have also been planned to allow the SMEs in those fields to impart their knowledge to the more

STW – Instructor profile WO2 Ben Cordy Time served: 22 years. I am the lead Instructor in STW, for both the regular and reserve QMs’ courses as well as the RQMS reserve course. Currently based in Deepcut we are due to move to Worthy Down in the autumn of 2020. My main interest, in addition to the routine delivery of courses, is to continue to develop the QMs’ course and introduce new technologies and training techniques. I have been part of QMs’ Div for 24 months and I am due to be assigned in 2020. I pride myself in being the SME in the instructor arena for the All Arms Courses: My background in the supply trade has been invaluable in ensuring course currency. As well as the QMs’ Course, I have delivered Regimental Quartermasters Sergeant (RQMS), Company Quartermasters Sergeant (CQMS), Unit Application Administrator and Oracle

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8 Cpl Graham Wickham and LCpl Luke Pettinger plating dishes during the culinary competition in the USA

junior instructors.The members of FSTS(L) took advantage of two great opportunities in the first quarter of the year. Firstly, SSgt Goble led a small contingent of the British Army Culinary Arts Team (BACAT) to compete in the 44th annual Joint Culinary Training Exercise (JCTE) International Category in Fort Lee, USA. Up against teams from Canada, France, and the USA, the BACAT did exceptionally well, earning five bronze medals and one silver between them. The second event was the provision of a Short Term Trg Team (STTT) to the Afghan National Army Officer Academy (ANAOA) in Kabul. The team of four, led by WO2 Lynnette Marston, deployed for two weeks to provide guidance to the chefs of the ANAOA and help introduce new working practices to improve food provision. It was no small feat, especially within such a short time frame and the lack of formalised structures with local food service provision. The chefs employed by the ANAOA receive no formal catering training which is an area that the STTT were asked to support. The team made various recommendations whilst in theatre on how provision could be improved as well as conducting basic training with the chefs. This culminated in a competition between the two kitchens on the site which produced some 8 Mariner Class 3 Reserve course. Cpl Alex Pugh (165 Regt RLC) operating the controls for the Mexeflote ramp

Discoverer courses. Outside of work I do get time to go to the gym. Unquestionably the best part of being an instructor is the interaction on each course with 21 late entry officers, all with diverse backgrounds in G4 and the often-difficult challenges that the training audience bring. There is no better feeling than when a student arrives on the course with the ‘rabbit in the headlights’ look on their faces on day one and leaves four weeks later with the confidence and understanding for them to be a successful QM. I am looking forward to the move to Worthy Down and genuinely cannot wait to deliver the QM course in an environment that provides high quality infrastructure, fantastic facilities and a training environment suitable for the modern Army.

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outstanding results. The STTT visit was concluded with a personal thank you from the ANAOA Commander Brigadier General Shariffi and Colonel Idris, the Garrison Commander. As we approach Easter, the FSTW team is looking forward to an increase in Army Chef trainees and a well-earned AT package in the summer. Supply Training Wing (STW - Deepcut) Chief Instructor Lt Col Dutch Holland RLC Supply Training Wing (STW) comprises three divisions that deliver logistic and other specialised training to generate and maintain the needs of the Fd Army. The 3 Divs are Quartermaster Division (QMD), Supply Operations Division (SOD) and Engineer Logistics Division (ELD). STW instructors include RLC and RE instructors and SSCP WOs drawn from an array of army cap badges. Ex STALLION CHASE – 24-hour charity run. On 30 Jan 19 members of STW took part in a 24-hour Charity Run organised by 25 Regt RLC in support of the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF). This arduous challenge was made even more difficult as it coincided with some Siberian weather.The STW Team (nicknamed the STW Avengers) was made up of different cap badges, various ages and abilities and consisted of Lt Col “Dutch” Holland RLC, Capt Scott Anderson RLC (Team Captain), SSgt Karma Rai RE, SSgt Frankie Atkins RLC, Sgt “Tiger” Field RE, Sgt Kawasi Amponsah RLC, Sgt Gerean Sealy RE and Sgt “Macca” McLellan RE. True to its name and their fighting spirit, the Avengers battled through all the challenges facing them, running 177 km within 24 hours and being the overall winners out of six teams taking part. STW raised £227 out of a total of £650 for ABF. After the event the team had little time to celebrate and enjoy their moment of victory as they were immediately back in front of their students delivering lessons. A brilliant effort for an incredible cause.

8 FSTW Op TORAL STTT – L-R Sgt Rachel Ainsworth, Sgt Shaine Ryland-Gasher, Maj Kelly (ANAOA Mentor), Sgt Mark Hollingsworth and WO2 Lynette Marston

Logistic Specialist Trg Wing (LSTW) Chief Instructor Wg Cdr Paul Buxton RAF LSTW delivers a broad range of training to Army and RAF personnel in each of its four squadrons: 73 Sqn (Port, Maritime and VSS); Defence Petroleum and Specialist Trg Sqn (Pet Op, PC Op, Tailor, Eqpt Repairer); Defence Mov Trg Sqn (Mov Con) and Logistic Supply Trg Sqn (RAF Log and Sup training). Defence Movements Training Sqn (DMTS - Brize Norton) OC Sqn Ldr Jack Holt RAF The Defence Movements Training Sqn (DMTS) was formed in 2010. Movements operator training for the Army Reserve, which was previously conducted in Grantham, was also added to the DMTS catalogue of courses. This brought the Army and RAF Movement Controller trades under one roof. Since this change, the DMTS has been on a persistent quest for seamless training delivery, with the aim of fostering the right mindset amongst service personnel whose paths will cross throughout their careers. The DMTS delivers Phase 2 and 3 training to over 2,000 personnel a year on more than 40 separate movements-related courses. These are not only for the Army and RAF movements trades, but also include numerous all-arms courses. Training is delivered to personnel of all three services, civil servants and

8 Sgt Ramu Rai receiving his badminton prize

Army Inter-Corps badminton championships. Sgt Ramu Rai (detached from 10 QOGLR to SOD) took part in the 2019 Army Inter-Corps badminton championships for as part of the RLC Team. The event was held at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks in Grantham, from 29 Jan – 1 Feb. As reigning champions,The RLC team was keen to retain its title. Unfortunately, it was defeated by the Royal Signals in the finals with a score of 3 – 6. An excellent effort from Sgt Ramu Rai and rest of the RLC team.

8 Sgt Zoe Burrell-Knipe RLC of DMTS with a class of RAF Elementary Movements trainees

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international forces. Wherever possible, cross-pollination of instructors is used to ensure SMEs are employed to best effect, no matter which course is being delivered and to whom. In addition to the training staff, DMTS has a small support team taken from the RAF movements trade. Originally the team’s primary role was to support RAF trade training, such as acting as a traffic team during activities which involve the practical elements of loading aircraft. Now, the team also assists army training delivery, by supporting the field exercises at the end of the Movement Controller Class 1 and 3 Courses. In addition to real time logistics support, they are actors in scenarios and form part of the directing staff, adding a joint element for the soldiers under training. The growth of joint training delivery at the DMTS has been well received by staff, students and trainees alike. The joint ethos promoted at the DMTS will, ultimately, be to the benefit of the trades and defence, as the personnel trained on the DMTS go out to deliver on operations and exercises worldwide. Defence Petroleum and Specialist Training Squadron (DPSTS – West Moors and Worthy Down) OC Maj Neil Swift RLC Sqn WO WO2 Carl Lamb RLC The RLC’s SNCO Pet Op and RAF fuel training courses are now being delivered in DCLPA’s new Building 101 in Worthy Down. Initial feedback about the quality of the accommodation and other new facilities is very good. The Sqn has been able to declare IOC for the move earlier than anticipated and maintain the momentum of transition from West Moors to Worthy Down. Changes to the Sqn in the first quarter of this year include the incorporation of postal and courier and unit equipment repairer training and all tailoring courses under the Sqn’s chain of command. As a result, DPTS has been renamed. The next issue of the Sustainer will include a feature on these new courses and the vital specialist training they provide. Additionally, the Sqn was successful in securing money from the Army Innovation Team, to procure three new

8 DPSTS demonstrating the new “Pop-Up Bunds” procured using money from the Army Innovation Team

prototype ‘Pop-Up Bunds’ from a UK supplier. The concept of these new bunds is to provide greater freedom to units to be able to conduct realistic operational bulk petroleum training with fuel, at any location in the world, with a considerably reduced risk of environmental contamination. A willing team from 13 AASR’s 63 Squadron, led by Sgt Nainabahadur Limbu, set the bunds up for a demonstration. A full PXR on the new kit can be sourced from OC DPSTS. This equipment, alongside the Tactical Refuelling Area (Land), is intended to offer logistic commanders increased freedom of manoeuvre for the forces they sustain on the battlefield: The new Strike Brigades, the Lead Armoured Battlegroup and the Commando and Air Assault brigades.

SSAFA LONDON CENTRAL BRANCH - WOULD YOU LIKE TO HELP? If you live in or near the London area, could you spare two or three days over a week or fortnight helping Service veterans and their families in need? The SSAFA London Central Branch urgently needs more volunteer caseworkers and divisional administrators. The SSAFA London Central Branch has four regional divisions broadly within the North and South Circular Roads and two specialist divisions: the homeless Veterans Aid and Prison-in-Reach. Over 12 months, the 83 volunteer caseworkers of the Branch have dealt with 6,700 cases in central London, where many veterans tend to congregate, and dispersed £1.2M in goods, help and support for ill and indigent veterans and their families on behalf of the Services and other charities. The SSAFA London Central Branch is pleased to recruit anyone of the right aptitude, dedication and temperament. Among the most suitable are former

Servicemen or their spouses, including members of the RLC, some of whom may have completed a second career or who now may have a little time to spare for volunteering. If you are in good health, live in central London, or, are resident within 40 or so minutes of commuting to central London and would like to give a little back to your former comrades of all services and their families in distress, then the Branch would like to hear from you. Please call 0203 900 2040 and leave contact details, or, better still send your contact details by Email to ssafarecruiter.loncen@gmail.com The Branch will then get in touch with you to explain what is involved in being a SSAFA volunteer caseworker and how to join this team passionately dedicated to looking after all those who have served their country, but who now have fallen upon hard times, along with caring for their families.

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TRADE: VEHICLE SUPPORT SPECIALIST | THE SUSTAINER

A BUSY START

WO1 (Cdr) Davies and Sgt “Billy” Matthews

By WO1 (Cdr) M “Jethro” Davies Head of Trade, Vehicle Support Specialist (VSS) The year has started off busy and will remain so for the next eight months. We have had VSS SP attached to BATUS to assist with Exercises PRAIRIE PHOENIX and STORM, The constant supply to BFSAI and support to Op SHADER by those in BFC. This does not also include the trade training that 73 Sqn has delivered. An excellent achievement by Sgt “Billy” Matthews in co-ordinating Exercise SEAHORSE INCREMENTUM. This has seen several VSS and VS personnel conducting Return to Role Training on various Armoured, Plant and B Vehicles. I have received feedback from many individuals who thoroughly enjoyed the training provided. Well Done Sgt Matthews. I look forward to visiting VSS personnel in the upcoming months and seeing you at the Corps Open Day on 6 Jul.

Ex Seahorse Incrementum in action

Rewarding experience By Cpl Martin – 142 (Queens Own Oxfordshire Hussars) Veh Sqn, RLC As a reservist our roles can change, luckily, I’ve only had to experience this once, but what a rewarding experience it has been. I have been a reservist for nearly nine years now and started reserve service as a communication systems operator (CSOP) in the Royal Signals. We were told four years ago that this role, for us, would cease to exist and would become a Vehicle Specialist Squadron as part of The RLC, something far removed from the job we had grown accustomed too. It was either this or travel much further afield. I took the option to stay and become a Vehicle Specialist. I soon realised that the role of the squadron would suddenly become very niche and that the VS world was indeed a specialist trade group. Over the last four years I’ve progressed through various trade courses and now successfully reached Class 1 whilst also completing my CLM course to be promoted to the rank of Corporal.

I’ve learnt more than I could imagine about all aspects of receipt, storage, driving, maintenance and issue of vehicles, in and out of various depots across the UK in relation to my new trade. Being a Vehicle Specialist reservist has given me something in return though, I now have my C+E license and can drive numerous military vehicles right up to a Warrior tracked armoured vehicle. This is absolutely different to my civilian job as a research manager. My regular colleagues have played a massive role in this progression and have accommodated me on various courses and exercises to increase my knowledge, skills and indeed put all this training into practice. I’m currently looking forward to another year of training on further vehicle variants and courses that will give me further qualifications and progression and our annual deployment exercise to SEF(G) in Mönchengladbach, Germany.

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THE SUSTAINER | TRADE: CHEF After a year in post these are the three things I have learnt. 8 Our most important asset is our people and they are the key to our future success. To say that our people are our most important asset might seem a strange statement to make, but you would be surprised how many seem to forget this fundamental fact. Adventurers, thrill seekers, creative types and sports supremoes, we are fortunate to have them all in our trade. No matter where they are from, their background, ability, rank or age, our soldiers want to make a positive impact on those around them and build a secure future for their families. Focusing on the success of our people and the emotional investment they have made to the Corps, their wants and needs and by building on their individual strengths will put us in a better place for the future. 8 Opportunities are plentiful, if you are ambitious you should grasp them with both hands. Individual and team profiling is a fundamental tenet of success in our Corps and by extension, the path to promotion. Opportunities are profiling, they can be selfgenerated such as community work, formal such as participating in team sports, or as simple as volunteering for a trawl. However or whenever they present themselves, you need to consider each one as a chance to develop your professional

8 WO1 (Cdr) S Griffiths

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A learning curve By WO1 (Cdr) S Griffiths, Command Food Service Warrant Officer, Head of Trade, Chef

knowledge, whilst proving your ability to adapt to new environments and situations; this is the magic key to unlocking future success. If you are willing to grasp all the opportunities you can, you will do well in your career. If you choose not to push your boundaries, stay in one place without stepping out to challenge yourself, you should not be surprised if success and your peers pass you by. 8 Department heads, RCWOs and UCMs have more influence than they sometimes believe. We often talk about the future of our trade, the potential to develop or future proof it and the management of our people and the environments they work in. For me, no other group is better placed or equipped to take ownership and lead our trade forward than our SNCOs. In particular, the department head is bestowed with our greatest responsibility and is arguably the most influential role in our trade; they are our engine of change.

8 Chefs have many opportunities to progress their careers including working onboard Naval vessels such as the HMS Queen Elizabeth

We need leaders who have purpose, clarity of vision, a firm moral compass and loyalty. The loyalty works both ways and neither shrinks from responsibility to admonish or fails to praise when it is due. The moral fortitude to know what is right and where the boundaries exist between what is and is not acceptable behaviours. The clear vision to identify a direction and set a course to steer that incorporates and absorbs external influences but remains steadfast and true. The sense of purpose and style that creates a positive unequivocal and lasting impression that others would wish to replicate and take forward as their own. That to me is the power wielded by our SNCOs and department heads. How do you influence our people to follow you?

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TRADE: AMMUNITION TECHNICIAN | THE SUSTAINER

By WO1 (Cdr) Andy Bannister The Ammunition Technicians (ATs) and Ammunition Technical Officers (ATOs) of The RLC remain as busy as ever in the UK and around the world, serving both within the Corps and in units outside. 11 EOD & Search Regiment RLC has continued to support the Civil Authorities at home, maintaining a call-out rate of somewhere near 2500 tasks a year and maintaining 24/7/365 staffing of the UK EOD Ops Room. Since Jan, the Regt has deployed ATs and ATOs to 15 different countries in support of operations, exercises and training. Overseas travel has included Belize, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, the Falkland Islands, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Nigeria, Oman, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine and USA. The Defence EOD, Munitions & Search (DEMS) Trg Regt delivers world-class training from its two sites in UK and has sent representatives overseas to assist international partners with training and training development. Since the beginning of 2019, teams have visited Bahrain, Italy, Holland, Denmark, Nigeria, Canada, USA, Egypt, Rwanda, Germany, Morocco, Algeria, France & Kenya. ATs and ATOs from 33 and 35 Engineer Regts (EOD&S) continue to be held at readiness for deployed operations, including those in support of Airborne and Commando forces. They have travelled to Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Iceland, The Falklands, USA, and Ops PADUS, HALLEX and SHADER.

Strength to strength

The officers and soldiers from our profession serving with the Intelligence Corps in 2MI Battalion as part of Defence’s Materiel & Personnel Exploitation capability continue to deploy on Ops CATAN, BLANCA and SHADER, with CPD exercises to The Falklands for trade development. ATs from Defence Munitions Depot Kineton have been recognised for their work in delivering Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM) community engagement, which they have achieved alongside their operational role supplying and managing ammunition and explosives across Defence. The MoD’s Chief Scientific Advisor awarded commendations to SSgts Stark, Bowl, Sgt Bray, Cpls Anders, Rayworth, Rose, Sanders and LCpls Hendry, Seal and Walker, as well as some of their RAF and civilian colleagues. The Kineton team

8 The MoD’s Chief Scientific Advisor has awarded commendations to SSgts Stark and Bowl, Sgt Bray, Cpls Anders, Rayworth, Rose and Sanders and LCpls Hendry, Seal and Walker

delivered 87 events in 2018 (27% of the MoD recorded total), engaging with some 3000 young people, often at evenings and weekends. Professionalisation Our trade membership of, and level of engagement with, the Institute of Explosives Engineers (IExpE) goes from strength to strength. Student membership for members of the AT Class 2 and the ATO course remains free and thanks to the efforts of Lt Col Child, Inspector Explosives (Army), newly qualified personnel are now entitled to free Technical Membership for their first two years (ATOs) and three years (ATs Cl2) in trade. The Engineering Professionalisation Recognition Award (EPRA) launched by Defence last year has started to gain momentum within the AT trade. Class 1 technicians (Cpl and Sgt) who register and are subsequently awarded Engineering Technician (Eng Tech) through IExpE can claim an EPRA of £3000. WOs and Officers awarded the status of Chartered Engineer (CEng) can claim an EPRA of £2000. Congratulations to Cpl Fisher of 621 EOD Sqn for being the first AT to be awarded Eng Tech and claim the EPRA. 8 ATs from Defence Munitions Depot Kineton have been recognised for their work in delivering STEM community engagement

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Lead First 2Lt Claire Charlesworth is 22 years old and is currently a reserve officer on the Lead First graduate scheme serving with The Royal Logistic Corps. Lead First is a 12-month programme aimed at university graduates. The scheme is open to people with no previous reserve service and those already serving in the reserve. They must attend and pass the eight-week reserve officer commissioning course at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS). The scheme is also open to young officers who have already been commissioned into the reserve. Lead First officers are awarded a 12-month, Full Time Reserve Service (FTRS) contract and a programme is then developed, personalised to each individual, enabling them to develop their leadership, interests and skills. This is achieved by attending courses, deployments, regimental duty or any other available opportunities that fit within the programme decided. Much of their time is spent serving with the Regular Army. At the end of the scheme, participants can then opt to remain as a serving officer within the reserve, apply to train for a regular commission or can return to civilian life. 2Lt Charlesworth graduated from the University of Birmingham with a degree Geography in 2017. She joined 162 Regiment RLC as a reservist in 2016 and was introduced to Lead First and mentored through the process by her then OC, Maj Mike Deck. How long have you been involved in Lead First and what have been the highlights so far? 2Lt Charlesworth says: “Firstly I would like to say, that enrolling onto the Lead First scheme is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I was commissioned in Jul 2018 on completion of the reserve officer commissioning course at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. 26

Since then my feet haven’t touched the ground! “It’s all been brilliant, but I suppose the main highlight of my year so far, has been attending The RLC’s Troop Commanders (TC) Course alongside the latest intake of regular RLC young officers. During the course, I learnt a multitude of skills that hugely advanced my military professional competencies, as well as having an unforgettable time and meeting friends I will have for life. “Learning to drive a GS Land Rover by day, night and on varying and challenging terrain gave me an insight into the responsibilities of our soldiers and how far they can push their vehicles. An understanding of the practical use of our vehicles was combined with our extensive conceptual studies of logistic operations on Ex TIMBER

8 2Lt Charlesworth with her mentor and former OC Maj Mike Deck at RMAS

TRUSS, the final exercise and culmination of our training. Whilst on Ex TIMBER TRUSS we, with the support of soldiers from 4 Regiment RLC, set up distribution points, forward support areas and conducted road moves in convoy. I personally commanded a rolling replenishment. This was the first time I had commanded soldiers in the field and the knowledge gained from working with highly trained and experienced, regular soldiers and NCOs was truly invaluable.” On commissioning, 2Lt Charlesworth spent some orientation time working in 162 Regt’s RHQ in Nottingham before a spell as a TC within 59 Squadron, 29 Regiment RLC. She continues: “Whilst at 29 Regt, I relished working with soldiers every day and hugely increase my understanding of what regimental duty is like. I also travelled to Germany to visit 69 Squadron,

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ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

where I was taken on a task by the movement controllers. It was to facilitate the RMAS senior term’s movement from Germany - where it had conducted Ex DYNAMIC VICTORY – back to the UK. “My interest in sport has been hugely supported during my time on Lead First. I competed at corps level in RLC Netball’s second team at the inter corps championships and represented 162 Regt in badminton at the corps championships where I personally came second in the both the female singles and doubles. I hope to continue this and represent The RLC next year. I also got to witness our soldiers competing at army level in the Skeleton Bob at the International Winter Games held in Germany. Sport is a fantastic opportunity to meet new people, develop fitness and have fun. I have loved the key part it has played in my Lead First year.” The social side of mess life is also an important part of a career in the Army and 2Lt Charlesworth has been fortunate enough to attend several dinner nights at 29 Regt, 162 Regt and during her TC’s

course. She adds: “I have found the dinner nights and the social side of mess life hugely enjoyable and everywhere I’ve been I have been made me feel incredibly welcomed into the regimental and corps families. Other opportunities have included a battlefield study to Ypres in Belgium, where we visited the area where the first ever pieces of footage of the WW1 were captured. The preserved trenches, the cemeteries and other significant locations from WW1, bought all the lessons we have learnt and things we have heard, to life. This trip was

both truly humbling and interesting and I hope to be able to deliver a battlefield study about WW2 to my own soldiers in the future. “So far I have relished every minute of my time serving with the Regular Army and The RLC. I have learnt about delivering training that will benefit the soldiers under my command at 162 Regt, gained transferrable skills and gained friends for life. I would thoroughly recommend the Lead First scheme to anyone thinking of joining the regular or reserves. The experience I have gained will serve me well in future and I have loved every minute.” Such has been the positive impact of her experiences to date, that 2Lt Charlesworth has decided she wants a full-time career as an army officer. She has been adopted by The RLC and will attend the Regular Commissions Course at RMAS starting in Jan 2020. Because she has already attended The RLC Troop Commanders Course, on commissioning as a regular officer, she will be posted straight to a regiment and she says she cannot wait.”

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE David is from a military family and joined The Royal Corps of Transport (RCT) in 1990. He wanted to join the RAF as a photographer but couldn’t due to age. His father had served in the RAF for 24 years as a supplier, so he decided to join the Army as a supplier, but there were no vacancies. He was told the quickest way into logistics was as a driver, so he signed up for this trade. David takes up the story:“I was in C Troop, (Taku Forts), in basic training at Buller Barracks, Aldershot then it was onto driver training at Leconfield. I did four years with 2AFA RAMC cap badged RCT and RLC, at Osnabruck, followed by 14 Tpt Sqn at HQ ARRC in Mönchengladbach. I was naïve when I joined, and it took eight years to re-trade as a Supply Controller. I was posted to the 22AD RA PC&A, and then 105 Sqn BATUS, Canada for a couple of years. Following this was 67 Sqn, 6 Regt in Dülmen in the Local Resources Section (LRS),Whole Fleet Management at the Theatre Fleet Support Unit, Mönchengladbach, the QM’s Dept at 9 Supply Regt RLC, Buckley Barracks, Hullavington and PC&A at 2 Supply Regt, Princess Royal Barracks, Gütersloh. There were two further units: Brydon House at the Personnel Recovery Unit (PRU) Normandy Barracks, Sennelager and Phoenix House PRU, Munster Barracks, Catterick. “During my career I did several operational tours. IFOR/ Op RESOLUTE 1995/96, Split North Port, Croatia, Op LODESTAR 1997/98 in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina where, with my attached unit, I did two six months back-to-back tours, Op TELIC 1, 3 and 5 in Iraq and Op HERRICK 11 in Afghanistan.” David maintains that his first unit was the best:“I loved Germany. If I had my career over again, I’d start there. I loved the idea of being in the military, a soldier rather than just a trainee. It was the independence, away from family, being in charge of my own destiny. For job satisfaction, it was the LRS in 6 Regt. I did two tours of Iraq with them and Ex ULAN EAGLE. It was great to work and 28

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STARTING OVER

8 David was medically discharged from the Army in 2013 and since then has battled hard to overcome depression

Leaving the military can be everything you hoped for or not at all what you expected. And discharge is not always a conscious choice. Lt Col Sheryl Stonehouse spoke to injured veteran David “Aitch” Hubber, about his experiences integrate with civilians, setting up contracts, overseeing them and working as part of a small team. Operationally, I am most proud of Op TELIC 3, where I worked with the Navy and RAF. As a four-man team, we controlled the theatre’s electronic counter measure equipment… potentially lifesaving assets.” While David was in BATUS in 2001, he fell over playing ice hockey. He severely damaged his coccyx. He continues:“I suffered from quite severe back pain and I tried to protect the injury by sitting and walking differently. In 2011, the injuries I have now were attributed to the on-going effects of that injury. I was diagnosed with degenerative

lumbosacral disease and suffer chronic pain. I now use a wheelchair and walking aids in my daily routine. I was medically discharged from the Army on 15 Oct 2013.” But civilian life took its toll on David:“It’s been hard,” he says,“and I suffer from depression. One day you were in a job you loved, the next, injured and unable to work, discharged, then home and nothing! Also, I’m not always in a good place mentally; a result of incidents in Sarajevo. I arrived after the conflict, during ‘the curfew’. Driving through ‘Sniper Alley’ was always a panic, though I don’t recall being shot at. Driving from location to location, I saw things I would rather not have seen; it plays on your mind.” David’s medication means he is unable to work traditional hours. He

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ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

may spend half a day asleep or not be able to work due to his pain or after-effects of the meds. He says mentally and physically he can’t say how he’ll be feeling from day to day. However, he found a career that suited his skills and lifestyle and is now an award-winning website developer. He explains:“Web developing gives me the flexibility to work when I want to and feel able. I support, free of charge, many charities through my web design and digital media skills. I have competed in archery as part of the UK team in the inaugural Invictus Games, with the British Army team and in several regional competitions. At the Invictus Games, I was lucky enough to take golds in the individual and team events and also a silver team medal at the Warrior Games in Quantico,Virginia.” David’s rehabilitation has been helped by people from many organisations, including: Help for Heroes, BLESMA, SSAFA, Ripon Rotary Club, A Soldier’s Journey, the Samaritans and Veterans UK to name but a few. Also, Deptherapy, who offer specially adapted scuba diving programmes for seriously injured

service personnel.With them David has participated in adaptive scuba diving in the UK, Egypt and Pacific. He also had support from the RLC Benevolence Fund, which partially funded his orthopaedic bed1. David is passionate about army veterans and has a message to the Government and the Corps.“I believe that military veterans need a greater support system than they already have,” he says.“There needs to be an all-encompassing approach in line with the Armed Forces Covenant, involving the military, the government, councils, support services and charities. It is not the MOD’s job to look after veterans once they’ve left the service but their knowledge on military life and its challenges is invaluable in helping non-military support workers effectively provide the support veterans require. There is discrepancy on the support veterans get depending on their postcode. Another veteran and I are in the same county, 24 miles apart, similar injures and both medically discharged, but there is a difference in the support we receive.”

8 David won gold at the inaugural Invictus Games and a silver team medal at the Warrior Games in Quantico, Virginia

As far as The RLC is concerned, David says he misses The Sustainer and other military publications such as KIT.“On discharge you receive so much information,” he adds,“I didn’t pick up the information that I could join The RLC Association2. As far as the future is concerned, David’s aim is to build up his web design and development portfolio and qualifications. An aspiration is to involve other veterans in web development, thereby supporting them, as he strongly believes veterans must support one another. In conclusion he says:“As the problems veterans experience are highlighted, I hope there will be increased support.Veterans need to talk openly and honestly about the issues they face.We need to support each other, and social media can be a good place to do that. The veteran’s story doesn’t have to be one of doom and gloom commonly portrayed in the media. I am a big Twitter fan for talking and I have 30+ Twitter accounts including @BritishSoldier, @BeyondInjury and @ForcesTweeter. It may sound odd to have so many accounts, but each has a different function and a slightly different demographic and I use them all.” 1 If you are medically discharged and have been a member of The RLC Days’ Pay Scheme you are entitled to £60 for every year you have served beyond two years. 2 Anyone who has served with The RLC is eligible to join the Association. For £15 a year you will receive quarterly copies of the Sustainer and a copy of The RLC Review, a newsletter and a badge. For more information contact: jonathan.knowles749@mod.gov.uk

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We all hope that in our time of need, someone will be there to help us. Care and compassion are watch words for The RLC Benevolent Fund, who seek to serve the RLC community for life. The RLC Benevolent Fund is part of The RLC Association Trust, a registered charity and it has a legal obligation to ensure that the Corps’ money is spent in line with the objectives of the Trust. If you want to view these obligations, they can be found on The RLC website. So, what does Benevolence mean? For the Fund it is the provision of financial support to those in need who perhaps have fallen on hard times or have a short –term problem, be it medical or financial and is intended to be a help up, rather than a hand out, to get people back on track. The Fund exists to relieve distress among serving members of The RLC and former members including the Forming Corps and their eligible dependants. The aim is to give speedy relief in cases of proven need, hardship or distress through investigation and the full facts being put to The RLC Controller, Benevolence. The Fund doesn’t work in isolation. It has to ensure that its charitable funds are not spent on facilities that should be provided by the State. You are eligible for support if you are or have been a regular soldier within The RLC or its Forming Corps or a reservist with three years continuous service or a dependant of either of these. Applications are 30

RLC Benevolent Fund made via the Common Application Form (Form A 2002) which can be found on The RLC website and submitted via SSAFA Forces Help, the Royal British Legion (RBL) or other recognised authorities. A telephone call (01252 833363) relaying the salient details is enough to start the process with the paperwork submitted quickly afterwards. The office is manned during the week with a small team of five and there is an answerphone outside office hours. However, it is a team that stretches beyond this small and dedicated nucleus based at RHQ The RLC.

The Fund doesn't work in isolation. Led by former RLC officer, Mary Gallagher, has good working relationships with many large and small military and civilian charities that support those in genuine need. There is extensive co-operation with welfare organisations with a view to sharing the cost of relief. On receipt each application is reviewed and investigated and if appropriate a caseworker is allocated from SSAFA or the RBL. Volunteer helpers and caseworkers investigate each case and advise how the Fund can best help those in need. As part of the review, each case is assessed as to whether what is being asked for can be fulfilled by the state and that the correct benefits are being applied for. Help is given with this. If this is not applicable, then other charitable organisations are looked at, as it maybe that the request is not within the parameters of The RLC Benevolence Fund but can fulfilled by other charitable organisation grants. The demand for support is on a rising trajectory, with some 1500 cases expected to be dealt with this year. The circumstances of those requiring help are wide and varied. The finance available in order to aid The RLC cohort is supplied through serving members participation in

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the Day’s Pay Scheme (DPS). Through participation you are automatically a member of The RLC Association. At The RLC Association AGM, the Fund briefs on how its affairs have been conducted and its money spent. The Fund’s accounts have by law, to be independently audited and presented annually. A summary is published in the Sustainer and sent to the Charity Commission, so it is available for all to see. Benevolence expenditure is substantial. Queens Regs obliges the Fund to spend 50% of the basic Day’s Pay Scheme income on benevolence. Charity Commission regulations do not allow the Fund to accumulate funds for their own sake. The number of people, both serving and retired, making bids on the Fund increased in 2018. 1328 grant applications were dealt with and some £741k given to support those in need. This includes those who have been medically discharged or have experienced an off-duty accident, death or injury. If they are a member of the DPS they can receive a grant of between £10 and £5,000.. Sadly, some have not received a grant because they aren’t a member of the scheme. Money from the Day’s Pay scheme also supports RLC sport, adventurous training, battlefield studies, The Sustainer, The RLC Band and Corps of Drums and The RLC Museum amongst others. Take up has been decline but if serving, regular or reserve, you are encouraged to join as it serves as a good insurance policy and supports the Corps activities for a relatively small sum. Speak to your RAO about joining. Benevolence is about people and

there are many examples of how the Fund has helped our soldiers and their dependents. Like the young soldier whose daughter was born eight weeks prematurely and required specialist treatment in a hospital 45 miles away from their home. As any anxious parents would, they visited their daughter every day and the Fund covered the costs of their travel and parking charges at the hospital, which this young soldier could ill afford. The good news is that mother and baby are now thriving and that the fund alleviated some of the stress at an anxious time for the parents. A young Commonwealth soldier learned of the death of his brother

‘‘

To give away money is an easy matter and in any man’s power. But to decide to whom to give it, and how large, and when, and for what purpose and how is neither in every man’s power nor an easy matter Aristotle, Philosopher

8 The Day's Pay scheme helps fund the RLC Band

who had been killed in a car accident back home in his native country. Whilst the Fund could not help him with his flight costs, it sponsored the request to another charity which was able to cover the cost of the flights. He did however return to his home with a grant from the Fund to support his incountry expenses. It is recognised that there are extra and often unforeseen costs that arise at such a particularly distressing time. Grants don’t necessarily have to be large to make a huge difference. As we age, our health can deteriorate markedly as was the case recently with an RAOC veteran. Confined to a wheelchair and as a result, his mobility compromised, he was unable to get upstairs and his home life was restricted to one room in his house. Extensive house adaptations including a wet room and a stair lift were made, with grants to undertake this work, coming not just from the Fund but a number of other service charities. One example of the collaboration of The RLC BF and other military charities. Needless to say, the improvement in this soldier's quality of life was immeasurable. We are surely obligated to look after our own. Your support of others through the Day’s Pay Scheme and the hard work and diligence of The RLC Benevolence Fund cannot be underestimated. After all none of us can say that tomorrow we may be the ones in need of that support and care. 8 The Day's Pay Scheme funds corps sport

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE Nick Wilson served for 14 years in The Royal Logistic Corps. He deployed on several operational tours including: Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. He was also involved with the training, coaching and mentoring of recruits and Multi-National forces. On leaving the Army in 2012 as a Sergeant, Nick started his own chauffeur car business. The brand he created, became extremely well known and respected throughout Oxfordshire. In 2016, Nick was officially diagnosed as having Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and moderate to severe depression. This was further compounded by a debilitating spinal injury. For four years Nick battled on, speaking out about PTSD through social media and public appearances, whilst dealing with his own personal ups and downs. After a period of making several serious mistakes, Nick suffered a breakdown and his depression and PTSD took him to a point where he was in crisis and suicidal. He finally received some support from Combat Stress and was remitted to rehabilitation. Nick decided to sell his chauffeur business, so he could better understand his condition and where his life might be heading. Initially Nick founded Working Minds Matter with the aspiration of providing a better understanding of mental health to as many people as possible. In 2017, he founded First Step Forward (FSF), a not for profit social enterprise. Nick’s vision for the organisation was that military personnel, veterans and their partners can gain a better understanding of mental health, that empowers them to better manage symptoms and identify their own healthy coping strategies, until they can be seen by professional services gaining the relevant treatment. Motorsport, like any sport, has proven to aid the mental wellbeing and recovery through concentrating only on the here and now, the track ahead, the race and ultimately winning. Nick Wilson 32

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First Step Forward

says it challenges people to focus their minds on the here and now, which in turn reduces the brain’s ability to process negative thoughts, memories of situations from days gone by or over thinking on ‘what might or might not be’. A recent collaboration with fellow veteran, Simon Pendlebury, from SPAR Motorsport, led to FSF sponsoring Simon, for his next season in endurance karting. Nick then saw an opportunity to combine karting with FSF’s current training workshops, to create two specific themed training days: ‘Karting and Holistic’. He says: “I have been researching how motorsport can aide individuals channel their emotions and stressors. Mission motorsport has been doing this successfully for a while now. But a chance meeting with Simon, produced an incredible opportunity for thousands of, not only veterans, but also the partners of service personnel, to learn how to better manage their symptoms and lives, whilst making motorsport accessible and all the benefits this can provide to these individuals.”

8 Nick has used motorsport to aid his own wellbeing and recovery

The initiative has now been expanded even further and through the collaboration of FSF and SPAR Motorsport, they are launching “Racing Minds”. This creates the first ever Veterans’ Karting Championship within the UK and Europe. It will be made up of seven rounds and is planned to be held at eight professional circuits around the country; all chosen for their geographical location, to assist individuals wishing to enter, from the point of logistics. There will be the opportunity for up to 20 drivers to take part at each location and is specifically aimed towards those veterans and partners of service personnel, who have been impacted by those struggling with poor mental health or illness and is non-gender specific. Nick concludes: “This may just be for half an hour, an afternoon or day; it could be for the year ahead. But it is still a break from negative thoughts and will lead to a more focused individual, who begins to look forward to things once again, whilst re-engaging in social activities, finding new friends and realising a better version of themselves.” 8 For more information email: nick@workingmindsmatter.uk

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A key member of any military welfare team is the Padre. Ordained ministers in the Christian faith, as well as, commissioned officers, it is likely many soldiers go through their careers without giving their wider role a second thought. While currently most of The RLC is not deployed on operations, a significant number of soldiers serving in 11 Explosive Ordinance Disposal and Search Regiment (11 EOD&S) can face the personal stress and pressures posed by the real-time threat of injury or death while dealing with unexploded ordnance or terrorist IEDs. Its Padre is the Reverend James Durbin. I am the chaplain to 11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Search Regiment. This is regiment is an unusual regiment for two reasons. First, it has fourteen locations spread across the United Kingdom and Germany. Second, it is the British Army's specialist unit responsible for counter terrorist bomb disposal and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), the recovery and safe disposal of conventional munitions. 11 EOD&S also has an ammunition licencing and inspectorate role. How can a chaplain help such a regiment? Army chaplains are responsible pastoral care, spiritual support and moral guidance of army personnel. Pastoral can include helping service personnel with family stress, mental health issues, bullying, career concerns, bereavement, gambling addiction and a lot more. Some of these issues can be dealt with by welfare, doctors or the chain of command. But sometimes soldiers don't want to talk on record or to someone who is managing and reporting on them. They want to talk to someone in confidence. As I travel around, I might talk to someone about the latest Liverpool football match, the weather, or how their posting is going? We can discuss what state their marriage is in; about a son or daughter they are concerned about; that they saw things on an operational tour that worry them; how they got injured and may need to leave the Army, or that they don't have a good relationship with their parents. Chaplains listen to soldiers

Padre Durbin the Army Chaplain By Captain (The Reverend) James Durbin

whatever situation they are in with respect and confidentiality. They might offer advice, refer them to get help, or just listen. Although I travel around to all 11 EOD&S locations, I can't be everywhere. So how do soldiers and officers get in touch with me? Well they can call, text or email me. But sometimes they need to speak to someone face-to-face. If I can, I will go to meet with them. But sometimes I can't. Fortunately, there usually is another military chaplain closer. I can put them in contact. All chaplains are happy to care for all service personnel in need, which ever unit or service they come from. But I don't just care for the pastoral needs of army personnel. I also support the spiritual needs of all faiths and those who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe. Sometimes I have been asked if Army personnel from certain religions can have beards. I won't give the answer, but if you're interested, read AGAI 59! If someone needs something for their religious needs, like a place to pray, chaplains can get involved. If chaplains don't know the answer, the can ask the MOD Civilian Chaplains to the Military (CCMs). These CCMs come from the Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh faith communities. All regular

Army chaplains are currently Christian ministers or priests from Protestant churches or the Roman Catholic church. They can talk about issues of faith, take a baptism or marry a couple. We pray for the service personnel in our regiment and sometimes pray with service personnel, but only if they want to. Alongside pastoral care and spiritual support, I also teach moral thinking. Most of this is MATT 6 Values and Standards. But I have also taught ethics, such as the morality of war. So, are some circumstances where it is just and right to go to war? Well yes. For example, to repel an invader. As you can see no day is the same for a chaplain, particularly as I travel around the UK. It is a great privilege to pastorally care, spiritually support and give moral guidance to those serving 11 EOD&S. Many of whom face a unique personal challenge; the real possibility they may be called out at any time and face a situation where they risk making the ultimate sacrifice.

8 Reverend Durbin helps support soldiers at 11 EOD&S locations

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By LCpl Ranjot Singh Expressing his feelings about Sikhs, the British Commander-inChief India, Field Marshall William Birdwood was not afraid to express his admiration of the characteristics of Sikh people. His attitude and words explain a lot about the Sikhs’ code of operation and their principles of living. Sikhs have served in the British Army since the mid 19th century. Initially serving as part of the British Indian Army, there are many famous stories that celebrate the bravery of Sikh soldiers which, are not only historical, but have become part of Sikh folk law. Sikh regiments have fought in many major battles on the Indian sub-continent, one of the most famous being the Battle of Saragarhi. On 12 Sep 1897, 21 soldiers from 36th Sikh Regiment defended an outpost against 10,000 attacking Afghan tribesmen. They killed 180 Afghans, held the position for a day and stood to the last man.

‘‘

I am least worried putting my wife and young daughter in the custody of a Sikh soldier because I am doubly sure that they are absolutely safe in the hands of a Sikh

Field Marshall William Birdwood Sikh regiments were deployed to fight in the second Opium War and during WW1 they fought at Gallipoli and on the Western Front and in WW2 played a key role in the Burma campaign. Their bravery and loyalty earned them many awards for gallantry during their service in the British Army. This includes eight Victoria Crosses and numerous Indian Orders of Merit. Today Sikhs still make an important contribution to the British Army. Although only around 160 in number, they form part of the Commonwealth’s contribution to Britain’s Armed Forces and can be found wearing many different army cap badges. Adding the number of Sikhs serving in the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force and the number of Sikhs serving increases to around 300. I serve in The Royal Logistics 34

Sikhs in the British Army Corps as a driver. I was born in the Punjab in India. My parents moved to the UK due to my father’s work. I decided to join them and I moved to the UK in 2010. On arrival, I did a number of random jobs. There was an exhibition at my dad’s work place, which is a Gurudwara in Hounslow. Gurudwara is Punjabi meaning “house of the Guru” or Temple. The exhibition was all about the contribution Sikhs have made to the British Army. I was impressed about this part of the Sikh history and made me think for a second that I wished I was in the British Army. But I did not have enough guidance to know how to make this possible. My best friend told me that his younger brother had been accepted to join the Army. Unfortunately he did not finish his training, but he encouraged me to have a go and told me about the opportunities within the Army and how trade training could help you in a career once you leave. That gave

me the kick start towards starting the application process. He was my inspiration and I made a promise to him, that I would serve for as long as I can. People often ask me what is Sikhism? Sikhism is a religion, which is simple and straight, where there no place for artificiality. We don’t worship idols and we believe in one God. We believe God cannot be seen, has no body and believe everything is a part of God and God is a part of everything. Sikhism was founded in India around 1500. Unlike other religions at that time, Sikhs had no tolerance for the caste system, the widow sati-system, enslaving women or treating women as second class and killing infant girls. Devout Sikhs do not tolerate hypocrisy, slander, the use of intoxicants, drinking, smoking and all evil practices. Sikhism is a religion where pilgrimages are strongly condemned. Sikhism is a religion in which loyalty, thankfulness, charity, humanity, honesty, truthfulness, justice and all other ethical and social virtues are encouraged and commended. None of the wars fought by the Sikh Gurus (Sikh Masters) were fought under the banner of sectarianism or religious fanaticism or intolerance. Hindus and Muslims were included in their armies and fought together under

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their command. The Gurus fought the tyrants of both Hindu and Muslim communities in India and they never captured an inch of territory, because that was not their intention. A Sikh is a combination of saint and soldier. Which means a Sikh is kind as a saint but will also fight for right and reason. He is in harmony with both and while living in the world he struggles for a higher level of life, alongside he also endeavours to achieve his spiritual goals. An American writer, Arnold Toynbee, wrote about the valour and bravery of the Sikhs in his book East and West; “The Sikhs are the burliest men on the earth on the face of planet, tough and capable and slightly grim. If the human life survives the present chapter of man’s history the Sikhs for sure will still be on the map.” (Ref: East and West, chapter: Amritsar and Lahore) I am currently working in RHQ The RLC at Deepcut. I recently arranged a visit for all the staff at the headquarters (military and nonmilitary) to the Gurudwara Singh Sabha Hounslow, where my parents live. The purpose of the visit was to create some awareness about Sikhism and the contribution the Sikhs have made to the British Army both past and present. We were greeted with traditional Sikh hospitality and given something to eat and drink. There is free food available at the temple every day for anyone visiting. The exhibition had a good collection of rare pictures along with the history of each, which explains

the military heritage of the Sikhs in India, through the Guru’s armies to the contribution Sikhs have made to the British Army and the bravery awards they have won in the Indian Army since independence. During the visit we had an opportunity to speak a Sikh veteran who fought in the Burma campaign while serving in the British Indian Army. His name is Mr Rajinder Singh Dhatt. He is 93 and he shared his experience with us and told us how difficult things were back then without the modern equipment we have today. He also told us that he was a PTI. All The RLC visitors were impressed by the welcome they received, the hospitality and the attentiveness of the Gurudwara staff. At the end of the visit, the Colonel RLC, thanked our hosts and presented an RLC plaque as gift to the Gurudwara. I cannot say how thankful I am to the people who showed interest in this visit, whether they attended, or could not, due to busy schedules. I joined the British Army in 2013

8 Inside the Sikh temple and six years have flown past. I love my job and I consider it to be best part of my life, so far. I have always been respected and have been given opportunities. I never faced any sort of discrimination or bias. I have learned so many new skills and I have done many new things which I wouldn’t have considered in civilian life. I always try and explain to other people opportunities in the British Army. When friends from India tell me they wish to join I always try to pass on the best of my knowledge. The British Government has changed the requirements for Commonwealth citizens wanting to join the British Army. I hope more Sikhs will apply. It will be good to have more Sikhs in the Army as was once the case. We are Warriors and Saints. What’s not to like? "Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal!" 8 The visit to the Gurudwara Singh Sabha Hounslow

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The RLC in the Falkland Islands By Maj Peter Cornish, OC Logistic Support Squadron, BFSAI

On 7 Mar 2019, the Corps Colonel, Col C Francis MBE ADC RLC, was hosted by the Logistic Support Squadron for an evening celebrating the contribution of the 100 plus RLC soldiers serving in the Falkland Islands. The RLC cohort came together en masse at the Harbour Lights bar, East Cove Military Port, to greet the Corps Colonel. After he gave a fireside chat on the direction of the Corps, all tucked into a banquet of home prepared Gurkha, Fijian, Welsh and English food. As the night’s festivities progressed, the Corps Colonel took the time to speak to every soldier and was able to learn of the vital contribution that the Corps makes to operations in the Falklands on a daily basis. On island, ten of the sixteen trades are represented, all of which provide a vital contribution to sustaining operations eight thousand miles from the UK. They continue to uphold the Corps’ proud heritage and unbroken presence from the start of hostilities in 1982. With insufficient space to cover all of the Corps’ past ventures, I’d like

to share a little about the founders of 460 (Port) Troop - the last remaining RLC unit on island.

8 The Corps Colonel with the

Port operations history When the war ended, detachments from 17 Port & Maritime Regt RCT and 20 Maritime Regt RCT, that had sailed with the Task Force, formed 73 (FI) Port Sqn RCT in Jun 1982 and set up its HQ in the Falkland Islands Company offices. Their first task was to clear a port operating area through which they could transit the 24,000 tonnes of

stores held on ships in the Stanley Harbour and to receive the stream of other vessels that had already set sail from the UK. This prodigious outloading had to be undertaken during a harsh South Atlantic winter, in the most basic of living conditions, on unprotected lighterage and by men already exhausted after two months of war.

Falkland Islands RLC cohort at East Cove Military Port

8 Maj Cornish with elephant seals at Whale Point

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The work rate to sustain operations was extraordinary, averaging up to 17 hours per day. To help put the effort into perspective, 116 men with four Mexe rafts, two Ramped Craft Logistic, four Fiat Allis Fork Lift Trucks, five Hysters and one operating crane, were responsible for offloading approximately 98% of all stores onto the Falklands required to sustain the locals and a garrison of 4,000. Why the Falklands? There’s something for everyone on the Falklands. This is a wild and pristine wilderness with over 800 miles of coastline. If you love

8 73 (FI) Port Sqn RCT unloading stores at Stanley Harbour

nature, the islands are abundant with penguins, whales, albatross, petrels and elephant seals and are considered one of the best fishing locations for sea trout in the world. If you love sports, there’s kayaking, surfing with dolphins,

wind surfing, a fully equipped gym, climbing wall, bowling alley and state of the art golf simulator. For the artistic there’s photography club, cooking club, cinema, a music club and the Christmas pantomime. For the military historian and enthusiast, come and see the battle sites fought and won by our soldiers, sailors and air personnel. Or you may just want a break from it all and have the time to get that distance learning study finished. Thank goodness I’ve still got a year and a half of my tour here left to make the most of everything this unique place has to offer and perhaps share this experience with some of you.

A soldier’s perspective By LCpl Kirby Remote, rugged and wild, the Falkland Islands are an archipelago that offer an indulgence of unique experiences. Having studied conservation at university I wanted to connect with, and give something back, to the natural environment. So, with this in mind, I set out on a sunny (but ever windy) day in Mar to join 23 Gurkhas, a military family and several local conservation workers to restructure and spruce up Port Stanley’s sea bird rehabilitation centre. This two-hour act of service, turned into seven hours of hard work, enormous fun, a hardy BBQ and an achievement the staff of the reserve had not dared hope for. We painted, cleaned, cleared away, repaired, created a new beach area and constructed a viewing platform for visiting school children. Keen to see marine fauna in its natural habitat, I took a trip to Whale Point. A short, slow cross-country drive from Mount Pleasant Complex exposes even the least adventurous tourist to a thrilling and intensely photographic day out that cannot be found anywhere else on earth. The white sand beach cuts around the mainland like a sliver of moon whose textured surface is scattered with whale bones, pampas grass and penguins that have lived side by side

for generations. An enormous kelp forest calms the currents that would erode the bay and encourages many sea creatures to take advantage of the integral food chain that it supplies. Penguins, dolphins, seals and elephant seals were to be seen, all vying for space amongst the crowded freezing South Atlantic Ocean lagoon that teems with aquatic life. In contrast to the explorations of a world so different from our own, I decided to participate in something I had never found time for in the UK . . . a marathon! But, of course, out here it has the extra special tribute of being named the world’s most southerly marathon and is attended by locals, military and international competitors in a windblown race that adds many extra calories to your daily burn count. No deployment is complete without a battlefield tour and in the

8 LCpl Kirby at the Sea Bird Rehabilitation Facility, Stanley

Falklands, there are more than 20 sites and experiences that are so relevant, alive and tangible it is hard not to be moved by the reality of the war fought here just a mere 37 years ago. Climbing Mt Harriet allowed me to look down from an Argentine vantage point and imagine our advancing British troops as they fought their way towards the besieged town of Port Stanley where the innocent civilians had been captive for 71 days of the 74-day war. I’m grateful to the 255 killed and 775 wounded whose sacrifice restored our nation’s sovereignty to these islands and made it possible for me and countless others to have the freedom to explore this remote and beautiful wilderness on the other side of the world.

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THE SUSTAINER | AIR ASSAULT CHEF Q&A Life in the Chef trade can be fast paced and exciting. Here two RLC chefs explain why they both chose to put up with the heat and stay in the kitchen...

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Sustaining 16 Air Assault Brigade 1

Q&A with Cpl Stephen Fletcher 216 Signal Support Squadron Q: Where are you based? A: I’m based at Merville Barracks in Colchester serving with 16 Air Assault Brigade (16 Bde) in 216 Signals Squadron. I enlisted into the Army seven years ago, initially serving with 16 Bde at 3PARA and then with the Special Forces Group at SFSG. 8 16 Bde chefs support Army wide trawls Q: What is the best part about being an Army chef? A: In my role as a chef I enjoy being challenged and working in the fastpaced environments that these units are recognised for. 16 Bde is the “spear tip” of the British Army, able to deploy at moment's notice and being the first boots on the ground anywhere in the world. This opens up multiple opportunities to train in countries such as Kenya, Falklands, America and Eastern Europe, each bringing their own specific challenges from

feeding a battlegroup of over 2000 troops to feeding a company of soldiers from a remote kitchen. Q: What skills have you gained? A: Time management and problem solving are some of the most important skills I will take with me throughout my career. When we are not away on operations or exercise 16 Bde encourages chefs to showcase their catering talents at competitions such as Army

Sustainer where we placed first in the Field Cookery event. There is plenty of opportunity to achieve civilian recognised qualifications within and outside of trade enhancing our employability, with numerous assessors and an education centre on camp. As a cohort we take it in turns to support the local community by preparing a meal once a week at the homeless shelter. I believe that with the correct mentality and attitude you really can get out what you put into this Brigade.

Q&A with Cpl Hemlatta Gurung 23 Parachute Engineer Regiment

Sustaining 16 Air Assault Brigade 2

Q: What do you enjoy most about the job? A: 16 Bde is constantly on high readiness which means for all chefs serving they are also on high readiness as well as deploying on numerous deployments, working within the CCM, on career courses or trawled to support the wider units within the Army.

The last 12 months for me have been very busy. I have completed my trade course (Production Supervisors, nine weeks) and I’ve supported my Regimental dive team, catering for them on their annual dive to Gibraltar. Two days after returning from Gibraltar I deployed to Cyprus to cater for the Commander British Forces Cyprus (three star General) which has to be one of my highlights of the year, as these posts are only for the very best in trade.

8 Cpl Hemlatta Gurung

Q: What other highlights have you had in your career so far? A: I have previously supported 1 RGR catering for the Soldiers on their Pre-Deployment Training (PDT) before deploying. I also supported the Regiment with its 15-year anniversary celebrations which were a weeklong of VIP functions with a public open day at the end where we fed 4000 people.

To finish off 2018 I deployed to Kenya in support off 2PARA where I received the Battlegroup Commanders coin. Q: What tips can you give to other budding Army Chefs? A: Promotion in the Chef trade can be difficult if you are not willing to put in the extra work needed, however within 16 Bde there are plenty of promotion opportunities that are passed your way. Each year the Brigade is asked if it would like to send chefs onboard ships to support the Navy, which is a great career opportunity. We also have the opportunity to work in Michelin star restaurants in London which can really help expand the chef’s knowledge for finer dining. I’d advise to take every opportunity you are given! This has been a fantastic year for me and this is the reason I joined the Army.

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10 QOGLR PUBLIC DUTIES | THE SUSTAINER

By Sgt Danbahadur Yonjan From our lives back in Nepal, to serving in the British Army, the journey for all Gurkha soldiers, is a long and arduous one. We go through a rigorous selection process, with an almost 1 in 50 chance of success, before completing our basic training in Catterick and then going on to our respective regiments; whether they be infantry, engineers, signals or in my case The Royal Logistic Corps. Not many Gurkhas embarking on this journey would have even thought that one day, they would have the privilege and honour of guarding Her Majesty The Queen. As a young, curious boy, who grew up in the hills of eastern Nepal, I remember hearing stories told by ex-servicemen about the honour that goes along with guarding the royal family. Fast forward three decades and I am lucky enough to be in that same position, going from Nepal to the Palace. From 5 May 19 members of 10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (10 QOGLR), led by 1 Squadron, had the honour and privilege of performing ceremonial Public Duties. This is a fantastic opportunity for all those involved to represent the Regiment, The Royal Logistic Corps and the British Army. It is indeed a rare opportunity for any regiment not in the Household Division to undertake Public Duties. 10 QOGLR has previously had the honour of performing this duty in 1994 and 2015, but this year it is a particularly special as 10 QOGLR is covering the duties for the entire summer period.

Nepal to the Palace

Our preparation saw 10 QOGLR busy sourcing uniforms from suppliers and manufacturers for all personnel undertaking the duties. This had its challenges, as not all the stock uniforms were the correct size for Gurkha soldiers. But we used our knowledge of the supply and logistic chains, to ensure that all members of 10 QOGLR had uniforms that fitted them well, were comfortable and also would look sharp to the public eye. After the uniforms were issued, they were tailored to each individual by the Aldershot Garrison tailor. To ensure that all uniforms were up to standard, there was a final inspection on the 26 Apr by the Senior Major and the Master Tailor from London District. Concurrently, all personnel taking part in Public Duties underwent two weeks of inhouse drill training. Following this, under the watchful eye of the Grenadier Guards training team,

8 10 QOGLR, led by 1 Squadron, has had the privilege of performing ceremonial Public Duties

they ensured that all our personal drill, formations and drill sequences were up to standard. The transition from light to standard drill certainly kept us busy. Despite preparing for and carrying out Public Duties, 10 QOGLR has continued to support its regimental and overseas commitments. So far this year, members of the regiment have deployed to BATUS and the Falkland Islands. 1 Sqn recently completed Ex BANGHARA JHARAJHAR, a week-long BCS exercise and 28 Sqn deployed to Germany for a month on Ex KHUKURI CHIL, a logistic based exercise with driver training serials, LFTT serials, and infantry skills. This has meant that, despite Public Duties being led by 1 Sqn, members from across the regiment are taking part. This regimental cohesion has ensured that we have been able to prepare for Public Duties and remain an effective and deployable regiment. Everyone was looking forward to mounting the first guard on 5 May 19. We stood on parade, filled with pride, joy, and honour. On behalf of the Gurkha soldiers in 10 QOGLR and everyone else involved, I would like to thank the British Army for giving us this fantastic opportunity to serve HM The Queen. 8 Everyone was looking forward to mounting the first guard on 5 May 19

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The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment The RLC’s Gurkha Regiment took over the honour of guarding Her Majesty the Queen in London on 5 May 2019. They have taken on the ceremonial duties, traditionally associated with the Guards’ regiments, for the duration of the summer. Some 120 Gurkha soldiers from 10 Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (10 QOGLR), usually based at Gale Barracks in Aldershot, have been busy on the parade square learning the intricate drill movements and positioning in preparation for their duties in full view of the Royal Household, the admiring gaze of tourists and the British public and critical eye of HQ London District. We bring you a few images from behind the scenes. Photography by: Sgt Paul Randall RLC, Cpl Ben Beckett RLC and Cpl Ben Beale RLC.

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10 QOGLR PUBLIC DUTIES | THE SUSTAINER

t Mount The Queen’s Guard

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1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BICESTER CO: Lt Col N Crew OBE • Adjt: Capt C Campbell • RSM: WO1 A Parker The first quarter of 2019 has been another busy period for 1 Regiment with the closedown of Ex SAIF SAREEA 3 still on-going, Ex KHANJAR OMAN and continued sporting successes. Ex KHANJAR OMAN In Jan soldiers from 12 Sqn and 23 GS Sqn, deployed on Ex KHANJAR OMAN to provide the logistic element to the Theatre Enabling Group (TEG) over a four-month deployment. The exercising troops conducted protected logistic manoeuvres (PLMs) transporting kit and equipment to exercise areas, followed by PLMs conducting distribution points (DPs) and exchange points (EPs) in support of the Royal Tank Regiment Battle Group (BG). Concurrent to the daily supply loops, under the leadership of 2Lt Bevan Wray and SSgt Jonathan Baker (both 12 Sqn), the Troop+ deployment refined skills as logisticians and enabled battle craft syllabus (BCS) training by practicing convoy drills, actions on and navigation lessons in the desert. 15 individuals led by Sgt Edderson Providence (23 Sqn) continued to build upon the success that 1 Regt achieved after Ex SS3, maintaining supply nodes and incoming freight to enable the BG to operate effectively. During their downtime, the troops were fortunate enough to partake in a battlefield study in Salalah and an excellent adventure training package in Muscat where they conducted various watersport activities. Sporting achievements The Regt’s Nordic ski team continued its exceptional run of form into the 2019 season with impressive victories in both the Army and Inter-Services championships; retaining both titles for the past three years in succession. This is a considerable feat of endurance and determination given that the team 42

was victorious in every one of 20 races across three countries over six weeks, with distances ranging from 5km up to 30km. The team’s highly successful season was generated through significant sacrifice across tough training camps headed up by Capt Sean Twine (23 Sqn) and coached by Cpl John Dunnett (HQ Sqn), where individuals were pushed mentally and physically to their limits. Winning every single Biathlon and Nordic race in The RLC, divisional, Army and Inter services championships is a stand out achievement; having never been accomplished before in military Nordic skiing history. Competition was of the highest standard and the team was never certain of victory. The Alpine team, led by Lt Mark Lewis-Taylor and Lt Henry ClaytonHatfield (both 12 Sqn), performed

8 L-R. 1 Regt RLC Nordic Men's Team. Cpl Carl Kelly, LCpl Carl Aldridge, Pte Miles Cawood, Capt Stringy Twine, Cpl Dan Morgan, Cpl John Dunnett

8 Members of 12 CS Sqn deployed on Ex KHANJAR OMAN enjoying the desert

confidently throughout the season. It was placed fourth overall at the Divisional Championships and third at Ex SKI RLC. As an escape from the cold weather, Lt Will Moore (2 Sqn) took the regimental golf society to Marbella in Mar for a local club competition, which the team won and a training camp to prepare the golfers for what will surely be a successful summer season. The Regt hosted an intersquadron boxing competition in Mar organised by Lt Ed Scott, Sgt Laurence Eades and SSgt Gareth Wall (all 2 Sqn), which saw several novice boxers fight. The women and men should be proud of the courage and discipline displayed in what was an outstanding evening, culminating in 2 CS Sqn taking the overall win and individuals from all squadrons selected to represent the Regt at the Corps boxing. Training In Feb, 2 and 12 Sqns trained in the Unit Based Virtual Trainer (UBVT) in preparation for BCS1 and 2. This was an excellent opportunity to train in an entirely risk-free environment. The Regt then saw each Sqn deploy on BCS1 packages throughout the country to consolidate skills that the soldiers will be expected to demonstrate as we progress into the next quarter and BCS2 on Salisbury Plain.

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3 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col S Cooke • Adjt: Capt A Thompson • RSM: WO1 M Robertson 2019 saw a revival of winter sports within 3 Regiment RLC after a busy couple of years. Eight soldiers deployed on Ex SKI RLC as part of the regimental Nordic ski team. Although challenged by last minute changes to the team, the Regt managed to deploy with both a male and female team. The teams were mostly made up of novice athletes, most of whom learnt to ski on Ex KNEES STRETCH in Dec 18 and had gained their first racing experience at the divisional championships, in Jan. At Ex SKI RLC the teams competed in both individual and team races in classic and skate technique, ending with the patrol race - a march-andshoot style competition over 20km, interspersed with command tasks. The female team produced the stand-out performance of the competition, finishing in fourth place overall at the end of the exercise. The team won a hard-fought bronze medal in the 4 x 5km relay, having been closely pursued by the 1 Regt team in the closing stages of the race. The female team also claimed third place in the patrol race. The men’s team had been plagued throughout the season by team changes and a lack of experience, but managed to deploy in good order and contributed to the Regt’s overall finish position in the team standings. Ex CHAMELEON STRESS 84 young men in the UK commit suicide each week. Ten members of

8 The Colonel RLC inspects the Nordic team 31 CS Squadron decided that marching the 85 miles of the Ridgeway, in 36 hours, was an appropriate way to launch 3 Regt’s new mental health initiative. Supporting the Mind and Combat Stress charity, the event raised awareness to the assistance available to members of the Armed Forces. Many members of 3 Regt have benefitted from the excellent work the charity does in providing ways and information on coping with mental health issues and building resilience. Starting at Overton Hill in the early hours of 14 Mar, the team got off to a good start allowing them a brief respite around the 50-mile mark. As darkness descended, the team had to draw on all its strength to keep up the pace required. Passing over Watlington Hill at daybreak on 15 Mar, the stunning views of the

8 Lt Eve Newton, Pte Whitney Burke LCpl Caitlind Hughes, LCpl Becky Wilson

Oxfordshire Plain came into view and provided a much-needed morale boost. Regimental supporters joined the team throughout the march to provide encouragement. Digging deep during the last few miles, the team arrived at Ivinghoe Beacon at 18:30, completing the walk with 30 minutes to spare. The excellent achievement got 3 Regt’s mental health initiative off to a flying start. The Regt is aiming to put on additional events throughout 2019 to help reduce the negative stigma surrounding mental health. Events include courses aimed at informing members of soldiers and officers how best to help those in need and spot early signs that someone requires assistance. This is particularly important as the unit prepares to deploy to BATUS on Ex PRAIRIE STORM and then onto operational commitments in 2020. 8 The Regt's female Nordic team

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4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col C Yates • Adjt: Capt M J Ruocco • RSM: WO1 D Phillips The new year began at 4 Regiment RLC, with 60 Sqn and the QM’s department leading up the regimental effort of providing real life support (RLS) for 3 Division’s Ex SPECULAR. The herculean task of setting up and dismantling the tented accommodation – ‘tent city’ - for all the exercising personnel set the standard for what work lay ahead for those deployed. Five weeks of hard work, in rather uncomfortable temperatures, did not go unnoticed and numerous members of the Regt were awarded GOC’s coins after exercise was completed. While the RLS team worked tirelessly to facilitate this divisional level exercise, RHQ and 75 (HQ) Sqn were ‘exercising troops’, deploying in the field and delivering CSS effect, while acting as LOCON for 12 Bde. This presented another great opportunity to roll out the Regt’s vehicle based CP and practice planning in a realistic and pressured environment. Winter sport In Feb 19, the Regt fielded both Nordic and Alpine teams to compete at Ex SKI RLC. The teams were captained by Lt Christiansen (Alpine) and Lt Ryan (Nordic) and competed valiantly, with LCpl Conway (33Sqn) placing in the top 20 of RLC Nordic skiers.

Meanwhile Lt Barnes deployed, alongside 12 other personnel from the Regt, to Austria to compete in Ex LOGISTIC BOARDER 19. Many of whom who had never snowboarded before and all performed extremely well. Special congratulations go to Cpl Tembe and Pte’s O’Connell, Delice and Senevanua for achieving gold in the novice team category. Ex TIMBER TRUSS In early Mar 19, 33 GS Sqn supported The RLC’s Troop Commanders’ Course final test exercise, Ex TIMBER TRUSS. It was a fantastic opportunity for both the drivers and suppliers of the Sqn to test their trade skillsets in difficult and arduous conditions. A rewarding week out on Salisbury Plain and good chance for the Sqn’s soldiers, in particular, to see the new troop commanders in action and gain an insight in to

8 GOC 3 Div Awarding Regt Personnel Comd's Coins on Ex SPECULAR

what they need to achieve to command troops in the Corps. 24-hour football 13 to 14 Mar saw SNCOs and officers take on the junior ranks in a 24-hour football match. organised by SSM Douglass (4 Sqn) to raise money for the charity, which supports veterans of all conflicts who suffer with mental health issues, Combat Stress. With a final score of 429-362 the SNCO’s and officers team won the day and a grand total of £5,570 was raised. Not all participants quite realised the size of the task at hand: By hour five, sprints had turned in to jogs; by hour 15 they were walks and by hour 20 they were crawls! An excellent effort to raise a substantial amount of money for charity and awareness of PTSD. Inter-squadron boxing On 28 Feb 19, we witnessed the culmination of weeks of hard work by those who volunteered to represent their Sqns in the inter Sqn boxing night. A total of nine bouts took place and the boxers showcased their ability and determination. Congratulations went to Pte Martin for being named ‘best boxer’ and Lt Griffin for receiving the ‘gallant fighter’ trophy. The Regt thanks Forces Mutual and BFRS for sponsoring the event. 8 The Regt Alpine Team

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DISHFORTH CO: Lt Col L A Green • Adjt: Capt T M Furlong • RSM: WO1 G Sumner It has been another incredibly busy period for 6 Regiment with sub-units deploying on overseas exercises, individuals deploying on operations and a wide-range of sporting successes. Ex ASKARI STORM 2/19 64 Sqn has been supporting 2 Rifles as the CSS Group deployed on Ex ASKARI STORM 2/19. The exercise has offered multiple challenges including the driving conditions, the climate and the wildlife. They provided a unique and testing environment for the Sqn to conduct its training. Additional driver training has also been conducted during the deployment, which has allowed soldiers to be trained to use new vehicle platforms such as the BFA and CST. Exercise, location offered multiple opportunities to conduct adventurous training including: kayaking, mountain biking and climbing Mt Kenya. The Sqn has also been busy with various community engagement projects. It provided play and learning equipment to a local orphanage and helped to renovate a local school. Regimental boxing In Mar, the Regt hosted an inter-unit boxing night with 3 Regt RLC. The event consisted of nine bouts, including a female featherweight bout and two non-scoring bouts against 4 Regt RLC. Out of the six scoring bouts, 6 Regt won overall with four wins. All the boxers

8 6 Regt wins Princess Marina Cup

showed grit, determination and demonstrated the courage it takes to step into the ring. The event was attended by Leeds Warrior and current IBF Featherweight World Champion, Josh Warrington, Josh then spent the evening with our boxers. He expressed how impressed he was with the whole evening, the performance of the boxers and he extended an invitation to the boxers to train in his gym. Sporting excellence The Regt has continued to perform well in a variety of sports over the past few months. It confirmed its reputation within the winter sports community, with the Alpine ski team being undefeated in every event in both the divisional and army championships. The male Nordic team experienced tough competition and finished runners up at both championships. These joint efforts mean 6 Regt has been crowned combined army ski champions, winning the coveted Princess Marina Cup. The female Nordic ski team also had a successful season, coming runners up in both the divisional and corps championships. The regimental snowboarding teams had success in Austria with the open team and novice team coming third overall in their competitions. SSgt Le was crowned

8 Josh Warrington with the 6 Regt boxers Best Overall Female Rider, winning all three disciplines and Pte Davidson won Best Overall Novice Rider. The Regt also had two soldiers selected to compete in the Army Snowboarding Championship. In addition to these successes, the Regt has enjoyed several individual sporting achievements. Cpl Tate and LCpl Brannigan, both from the LAD, have been selected to compete for the Army BMX Team. SSgt (SSI) Bloomer came second at the Inter-Services Skeleton Bob Championships in Konigsee. Her efforts contributed to the Army taking victory in the team event. And finally, Cpl Williams had his first season competing for the GB International Biathlon Union Cup team, following a successful season at divisional and Army level. CGS’s commendation WO2 (SSM) Parker has been awarded a Chief of the General Staff commendation for his outstanding work during his time with the Regt. In particular, his efforts to raise money for the Army Benevolent Fund, the Soldiers’ Charity, were recognised. Thanks to his efforts, the Regt raised over £70,000 and came second from across the Army in the Carrington Drum competition last year.

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7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COTTESMORE CO: Lt Col J Edwards • Adjt: Capt E Duplessis • RSM: WO1 A Newham The first part of 2019 has been a busy time for 7 Regiment RLC, with the Regt taking part in a multitude of training, sport and adventurous training activities. 9 Squadron In Jan, personnel from 9 Sqn, along with elements of 1 Bn REME deployed on Ex ASKARI STORM to provide CSS support to the 1 LANCS Battle Group (BG) and HQ 51 Bde. Ex ASKARI STORM was broken down into four phases. Phase 1 was Live Fire Transition Training (LFTT) and Phases 2 and 3 saw the BG conduct dry fire training. Phase 4, took place on the Loldaiga training area and was the BG FTX. Throughout the exercise there were ample opportunities for troops to get involved in extracurricular activities. In particular, over 90% of the Sqn was able to get away on a twoday adventurous training package. Additionally, some of the soldiers had the opportunity to get involved in the community engagement scheme run by BATUK assisting with decorating classrooms, in a local school. 68 Squadron While 9 Sqn was in Kenya, in Feb the remainder of the Regt deployed on an LFTT package in Lydd for two weeks. The LFTT package involved various shoots at increasing difficulty from individual to troop level to improve both marksmanship skills as well as teamwork to get soldiers to stage 5 shooting capability. The best shots were then identified to represent the Regt at the Brigade Operational Shooting Competition (Bde OSC). Following the LFTT package, 68 Sqn deployed on Ex TOWER DREAD, the Squadron’s CT1 level exercise focusing on the back to basics field craft. The exercise tested all components of basic soldiering, including day and night navigation, administration in field conditions and teamwork. It also 46

8 Ex ASKARI STORM - a chance for some AT allowed members of the Sqn the opportunity to develop seldom practiced skills. Those selected for the shooting team conducted training in preparation for the Bde OSC. 7 In Apr, the Regt’s shooting team travelled to Catterick to compete against all the other Bde regular and reserve units. The competition tested ability and skills, incorporated into realistic scenarios. Overall the team did very well; achieving the top regular shot in two of the shoots. Sport The Regt took part in many sporting and adventurous training events including: skiing, rugby, football and boxing. In Feb, selected members of the Regt were sent to Rupholding in Bavaria to compete in Ex SKI RLC. The event saw multiple competitions in both the Nordic and Alpine disciplines. Competitors had

8 68 Sqn takes 7 Regt inter-sqn victory

to show great determination and courage to compete in the various events. Although 7 Regt did not win this year, both teams put in a valiant effort and continue to improve with hopes of competing and winning next year. The Regt held its annual InterSqn boxing competition, which was the culmination of months of hard work for the boxers. The night saw eight very closely fought bouts of soldiers from various weight categories and skill levels. With many VIPs in attendance, the fighters showed massive amounts of courage and determination putting on a night of high-quality boxing not only in front of the guests, which included former world featherweight champion, Colin McMillan, but also their peers. Overall it was close contested, with 68 Sqn securing the overall victory. Charity As part of the Commanding Officer’s Cup, the final competition of the year was a ‘Tough Mudder’. The competition saw over 100 competitors taking part, completing a 3.5-mile cross-county route, which also included several obstacles. With points amassed from ten competitions running throughout the year, 9 Sqn was the overall winner for 2018. The event raised a total of £430 for the Army Benevolent Fund.

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9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULLAVINGTON CO: Lt Col A J C Geary • Adjt: Capt C Hardwick • RSM: WO1 R Vincent The last couple of months provided a welcome opportunity for some well-earned leave and allowed 9 Regiment RLC to regroup ahead of its upcoming commitments. The spring term has been characterised by a focus on CT1 exercises, trade training, leadership development and sport. 90 (HQ) Sqn has been fully engaged supporting the Regt Bde, Force Troops Command (FTC) and the Corps. Comms Specs participated in various BCS exercises across the Regt, FTC’s Terrain Walk across Europe was organised, 104 Bde’s CAST was supported and pre-courses for DCLPA’s Class 1 and Senior Supplier courses were ran. The Sqn continues to thrive. In Feb, Petroleum Troop, 66 F&GT Sqn attended Ex GREEN SHADOW, a joint exercise with 152 (North Irish) Regt and US Army counterparts. The exercise was a fantastic opportunity for the more junior Petroleum Operators to practice their skills, as well as building relationships with others within the trade. The Sqn also organised a junior leadership development day, with JNCOs receiving a lecture from former England and Saracens rugby player, Will Fraser. The JNCOs were able to consider the similarity of the ethos of civilian sports clubs to the Army’s leadership code and reflect on their own leadership styles. The last few individuals from Ex KHANJAR OMAN returned at the beginning of Apr, after a great performance as part of the CSS Battlegroup testing the concept of deployed CSS Ops. Special mention must go to Cpl Ayrey in recognition of her exemplary hard work and leadership within the detachment. Those 84 MSS soldiers who were not deployed have also been busy on their CT1 at Swynnerton Camp, where their week-long exercise saw the Sqn going back to basics to refresh their soldiering skills which culminated in the defence of a FOB location.

8 The Sqns have been involved in various exercises across the Regt

95 Sqn has also been out developing its skills on Ex KUKRI EDGE in Longmoor and Sennybridge. Cpl Binaya Bajracharya and LCpl Triven Gurung were crowned “best shot” on the rifle and pistol ranges respectively. The exercise then decamped to the STA for a week of section and platoon level training under SSgt Tirtha Gurung and his team of instructors. The Sqn was put through its paces during some challenging Feb Brecon weather, culminating in an excellent Tp+ attack led by 2Lt Nazir and Cpl Jackee Gurung. In other areas, 95 Sqn personnel have been hard at it with professional development visiting the Amazon Fulfilment Centre in Dunstable and local logistics businesses whilst running continuation training on SEESUPS and MHE courses. The Regt’s sporting success continues, with LCpl Swanton crowned the Alpine female novice champion at Ex SKI RLC. The regimental Nordic team finished fifth and the Alpine team finished eight out of 23 teams. Pte Karki won the title of Army Open Men’s table tennis singles champion and won the doubles championship with Sgt Owusu. Pte Osei won the National Single

Lift Championships with a 300kg deadlift. Additionally, 9 Regt won the Brigade Operational Shooting Competition (OSC) and now looks forward to competing in the FTC OSC. Outside military competitions Cpl Shaun Melhuish of 95 Sqn is congratulated for his efforts in raising over £300 for the ABF, including a hard-fought half marathon in London, whilst Cpl Shaw is once again tackling the 2019 London Marathon, after running the same race last year for Combat Stress. The Regt also held an incredibly successful boxing night with the LAD crowed the overall winners – congratulations to everyone who fought on the night. A massive well done to the regimental rugby team for its success in the Army Cup final, beating the Royal Welsh 16-15.

8 90 Sqn on CT training at Swynnerton Camp

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10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col A F West • Adjt: Capt S Patterson • RSM: WO1 P Gurung The regiment has picked up where it left off in 2018, with a great deal of concurrent activity over the past three months as it prepares for public duties and BATUS commitments. The Regt has welcomed several high-profile visitors including the Colonel of the Regiment, Maj Gen ASJ Fay CB, and the Chairman Armed Forces Buddhist Faith Society, Maj Gen RA Magowan CB CBE. There have also been several promotions, most notably ten personnel from SSgt to WO2. The Regt also received the excellent news that Capt Deny Gurung has been selected to take over as the next Queen’s Gurkha Orderly Officer in the summer.

8 28 Sqn Ex KHUKURI CHIL Since the start of the year, there have been numerous sub-unit deployments. 28 Sqn deployed on Ex KHUKURI CHIL, a 24-day OTX to Sennelager in Germany, which involved 117 personnel, 32 vehicles and over 1600 km of packet moves. The main activity phases consisted of: A three-day LFTT package, a five-day driving phase and a fiveday dismounted training programme. The Regt has also been involved in several other exercises, including Ex BANGARA JHARAJAR. This was a five-day dismounted training exercise in Longmoor, conducted by 1 Sqn, under the direction of Lt Stephenson. Additionally, trade specific training has continued, 48

8 1 Sqn Amazon Fulfilment Centre visit with a Hyster course and CST course being run by Sgt Binod Thapa and Cpl Lokraj Limbu respectively. Outside of military training, LCpl Om Gurung executed a superb links to industry day, which saw several 1 Sqn personnel visit the Amazon Fulfilment Centre in Tilbury. The facility is the largest of its kind in Europe and provided an excellent platform for the sharing of best practices, which stimulated healthy discussions regarding supply chain logistics. There has also been a continued drive towards professional development, with the regimental shooting team being crowned winners at the 101 Logistic Brigade Operational Shooting Competition. Under the guidance of 2Lt Alex Ellitsgaard-McNaughtan and LCpl Arshu Gurung, the team has continued its domination of the event. LCpl Arshu Gurung was awarded best shot of the competition, narrowly beating Pte Abhinavan Rai. This success has been replicated in other sporting arenas, with the regimental volleyball team, led by SSgt AppiahBosompem, winning the UK South volleyball championships and the ski team building on the progress from last year’s competitions, with LCpl Min Gurung finishing 16th overall, an outstanding achievement for a novice. Through all this activity, the Commander’s Sword competition

has continued to run and as we move into the final stretch, 28 Sqn has a narrow lead. Recently it has been crowned cross country champions, with Lt Hoccom the overall winner, covering the 10 km route, in a record 37:05. This was 41 seconds faster than his closest rival, Pte Rocky Rai (also 28 Sqn). This event was followed by the volleyball competition, a hotly contested activity in which 1 Sqn pipped 28 Sqn to the title, closing the gap at the top of the table. Overseas, the Regt has maintained a presence in many theatres, with personnel deployed on Op CATAN and Op FAIRFIELD. In addition to this there has been a continued presence in BATUS, BFSAI and Brunei. Finally, the Regt would like to congratulate Maj Indra Tamang for his selection as the next Gurkha Major. The Regt looks forward to welcoming him at the end of Jul.

8 Chairman AF Buddhist Faith Society Maj Gen Magowan

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11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment RLC DIDCOT CO: Lt Col N G Joynes QGM • Adjt: Capt L Selman • RSM: WO1 P Gonzalez 11 EOD & S Regiment continues to deliver EOD capability and ammunition technical support worldwide. This quarter it has also participated in Ex RLC SKI, a UK battlefield study and carried out continuous trade training. CSAD Support to Op CABRIT 3/4 On 7 Jan 2019, a close support ammunition detachment (CSAD) of three ammunition technicians from 11 Regt deployed to Estonia in support of Op CABRIT 3/4. A CSAD has a variety of roles and responsibilities, including the provision of technical advice on ammunition and explosive safety, investigation of munitions incidents, backloading and disposal of out of date and damaged munitions and the safe demolition of items in theatre. As the lead enhanced forward presence (EFP) nation within Estonia, the deployed UK CSAD fulfilled the role of NATO technical authority for all munitions and explosive safety concerns within theatre. This proved especially challenging due to both the language barrier and national variations in policy. In all, the deployment of a CSAD in support of Op CABRIT sees British ammunition technicians at the forefront of a NATO operation, engaging with allied forces at all levels. The deployment provides a varied six months with multiple responsibilities and valuable opportunities for trade progression. Ex FELIX CASTLE Cpl Wickens (CSAT) planned and delivered a highly successful battlefield study, Ex FELIX CASTLE. The study was designed to enhance understanding of the importance of logistics and technological innovation in historical conflicts, through a study of the Anglo-Welsh wars of 10671283. The study was conducted at sites within the Anglo-Welsh border region. This was well received by all who attended and showcased the rich history

8 11 EOD&S Skiing Team available on our doorstep. Even the sun made an appearance making it a thoroughly enjoyable and educational day. Ex DEMON BEACON In Feb, 721 Sqn conducted Ex DEMON BEACON 19 at Nesscliff training area. The exercise is one of three annual exercises that authorising tri-service EOD teams for Military Aid to Civil Authorities (MACA) duties under Op TAPESTRY. Teams from across mainland UK, NI, Gibraltar & Cyprus were assessed under rigorous conditions. We also provided training to various police forces from across our AOR to aid multiagency interoperability. CIMIC Duties 11 Regt has also engaged in a number of CIMIC activities, including a school visit in conjunction with DSTL looking at the technology

utilised by the Regt and the role it plays within a bomb disposal team. Additionally, members of Tidworth Troop deployed to the Bournemouth International Centre to support training of police search advisors from numerous regional police forces. A number of serials were run to develop first responder and search skills when dealing with potential improvised explosive devices. Ex SKI RLC 19 This year 11 Regt pulled an unlikely team of competitors from its EOD and Search duties to compete at Ex RLC SKI. More used to wearing 35Kg bomb suits, the intrepid team was dispatched with Lycra, skis and a nine-seater combi van. For some, day one in the breathtaking Bavarian mountains was more of a ‘crash course’ in ski retrieval, by the start of the competition the team had found its feet. On completion of all events the Regt was placed 12th of 25 teams and one member managed to move 60 places up the leader board. Adventurous training at its finest, the team had unforgettable experiences, forged strong friendships and pushed themselves to their limits. 8 ROV & operator training on Ex DEMON BEACON

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13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER CO: Lt Col M Genko • Adjt: Capt O Stilgoe • RSM: WO1 R Falls 13 Air Assault Support Regiment has had an excellent quarter with members of the Regt deploying on a mixture of collective training exercises as well as adventure training and battlefield study packages. Ex NORMANDY REVERENCE In Mar 2019, 100 members of the Regt deployed on a one-week battlefield study to Normandy, as part of the commemoration of Normandy 75. The focus of this study was three-fold: To commemorate the D-Day landings; the importance of airborne operations in its success and understanding the role that logistics played in enabling this gargantuan undertaking. Following a study day Colchester, a mixture of historian and soldierled stands took the group to sites including: Arromanches les Bains, Merville battery, Omaha beach, Point Du Hoc and Caen. The groups were provided with highly detailed accounts from individuals that took part in Op OVERLORD. Most notable was tracing the steps of OC 82 Sqn’s grandfather, who took part in the assault of Omaha beach. This was an eye-opening experience for many of the young soldiers and officers who learned the reality of what is expected of them in full scale war. Along with the occasional jaunt into Bayeux or Caen, other highlights included the 360-degree cinema in Arromanches les Bains, Pegasus bridge, the Mulberry harbours and the airborne museum in St-Mere-Eglise. This was a great opportunity to learn fundamental military history and reflect on personal accounts. Ex DRAGON FISH In Mar 2019, members of the Regt deployed to the Mediterranean island of Malta on Ex DRAGON FISH. This was an adventure training SCUBA diving package, aimed at qualifying participants to both BSAC Ocean and Sports 50

Diver levels. The exercise began with equipment and pool sessions and for some, a certain level of fear had to be overcome. Following this, the group prepared for their first dive in open water. Malta had been battered by the worst storm for 37 years the week prior to our arrival, causing extensive damage to many sea front buildings and promenades. This devastation made for interesting dives, with the team identifying many sunken treasures, including a BMW M3 next to the wreck of HMS Maori some 15m below the surface. The group became increasingly confident in their abilities and depth progression. The highlight for many during the course were the dives at Cirkewwa. This dive site offers some of the best wildlife on the island, two wrecks to explore and a short swim through cave system. On completion of the Ocean Diver course, the group had a day of R&R in the island’s capital, Valletta and explored the fortified city that has been occupied, conquered and recaptured by several empires. Well rested, the divers began the BSAC

8 One of the groups pose for a photo in front of a Sherman tank

Sports Diver phase of the exercise. Lessons complete and exams passed, the last dive was to be at the Blue Grotto; an impressive open cave system and wall dive. Crystal clear water, a cloudless sky and an abundance of wildlife made for a memorable dive. A great end to the exercise! In other news Ex DECISIVE DAKOTA saw members of 47 AD Sqn deploy on a second battlefield study to Normandy, with JNCOs taking the lead on many of the stands. In Dec 2018, two members of 65 Logistic Support Troop deployed on Ex CARIBBEAN EXPRESS as crew aboard the Joint Services Adventure Sailing Training, Challenge 72 yacht. This proved to be a very testing experience as the vessel battled extreme weather across the Caribbean, eventually returning to Grenada. Look forward The Regt is preparing for Ex SWIFT RESPONSE, which will be 16 Bde’s priority exercise for 2019. This will see the 3 Para BG deploy to Croatia in June and with it both RHQ and 82 Sqn. Additionally, members of the Regt will parachute into France in Jun for the Normandy 75th anniversary. 8 A close encounter on Ex DRAGON FISH

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17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTHAMPTON CO: Lt Col P Eaton MBE • Adjt: Capt M McGarvey-Miles • RSM: WO1 G Richards 2019 has brought little respite to 17 Port & Maritime Regiment, with multiple deployments, squadron exercises and great sporting achievements all occurring simultaneously. Deployments Exercises SOUTH-WEST SWORD, LYME BAY SCRAMBLE, CHAMELEON and JOINT WARRIOR resulted in a large part of the Regt deploying. This was in addition to personnel deployed on port task groups to Belize and Mombasa. The latter saw relationships strengthened with the Regt’s sister unit, 165 Regiment RLC, as we closely together in the overseas ports. Ex MULBERRY ABLE INDURARE, a 51 Sqn initiative, saw sections from across the Regt participate in a gruelling patrols competition across Dartmoor. The teams, all led by JNCOs, navigated ten checkpoints over 30km in some of the most unforgiving terrain. This was not made easier by the unseasonably warm temperatures and 50lbs of individual equipment. With each patrol commander required to plan their own route before setting off and completing a multitude of command and military knowledge tasks, mission command was paramount and demonstrated in spades. However, despite The RLC cohort’s best efforts, the Regt’s Workshop team came first in an unbelievable 18 hours. The Vehicle Support Specialist (VSS) Troop conducted its first ever currency and competency exercise on Salisbury Plain, focussing on Challenger 2 MBT, WARRIOR and CVR(T) and it was great to see personnel from 6, 9 and 10 Regts in attendance. Sport The regimental ladies basketball team, headed by Cpl McPheePeace and LCpl Taraki, did themselves and the Regt proud, by winning the RLC Inter-Unit Basketball Championships. The

team was also runner up in the Army Championships. In Nordic skiing, six individuals were dispatched from Dec to Mar to compete against the wider army. Under the expert eye of LCpl Foley, the team were subjected to an intensive physical and technical training package, before competing in the Divisional Championships in Les Contamines. The weeks of strenuous conditioning paid dividends, as Cpl Garside, LCpl Foley, Pte Brown and Pte Belsten, emphatically established 17 Regt as Divisional champions. This enabled the squad to progress through to the Army Championships in Ruhpolding, Germany, where they finished third in an immensely competitive field. Foley, Garside and Brown all made it into the overall winning corps team. The finale of the season saw the

8 A section navigating over Dartmoor as part of Ex MULBERRY ABLE INDURARE

8 VSS getting to grips with CHALLENGER 2 MBT and WARRIOR IFV

group partake in Ex SKI RLC, where a strong second place finish rounded off a wonderful season, with Cpl Garside obtaining his richly deserved Corps Colours and Lt Wilkins achieving top senior novice. However, the most poignant moment was undoubtedly Pte Sprake’s success in claiming the Stuart Younger Memorial Trophy for top junior. The ornate glass eagle is a stunning tribute to an immensely talented military skier taken tragically young. It had been won three times by LCpl Foley in his youth and as Stuart Younger’s father so touchingly identified at the presentation, to witness a past victor actively mentoring the future, outlines a legacy that his son would have been proud to call his own. In Austria, four members of the Regt took part in the Army Snowboarding Championships. The Regt was placed third overall but won the open slopestyle competition, fighting off some fierce competition on a very challenging and technical course. Individual achievements included a third place for Pte Cole in the competition and selection for the Army team. Pte Riemer-Coulling achieving second in the intermediate boardercross competition. The Regt’s focus is now aimed firmly towards NORMANDY 75 and Ex IRON VIPER 19.

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25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DEEPCUT CO: Lt Col M A Scannell • Adjt: Capt F Harris • RSM: WO1 J Girvan 25 Training Regiment has begun a significant period of change. This is the last report to include 85 Sqn and DSU as part of 25 Regt. The time the next issue of The Sustainer publishes in midSep, the move to Normandy Barracks, Leconfield, will be in its final stages. 109 Sqn In Jan 109 Sqn hosted a 24-hour endurance event on behalf of the Army Benevolent Fund. Masterminded by Cpl Danny Burford the participants running in relays, covered hundreds of miles around the sports track, enduring snow, sub-zero temperatures and gallons of lukewarm tea! The Sqn entered a team into the Commando Speed March. Combining a Battle Field Study and historical lessons the week culminated in the famed 7-mile speed March over hilly terrain ending at Achnacarry House. With Capt Robert Tams posting the quickest time bragging rights have been used frequently alongside his brand-new green beret. The move to Normandy Barracks brings about the inevitable changes of Sqn personalities with the OC, Maj Denis Melia, going to Regional Command and Sqn 2IC, Capt Adam Rough, going to RMAS as a Pl Comd. 85 Sqn 85 Sqn continues the delivery of CLM to the Corps’ NCOs. There have been several key Continuous Professional Development (CPD) events that have been run by the Sqn’s SNCOs and JNCOs. SSgt Jaffe ran a MS and leadership focused CPD week involving report writing and grading boards. The week centred around Sir Winston Churchill’s leadership, each SNCO had to write an essay on Sir Winston Churchill and then deliver a ten-minute syndicate presentation to the CO. The week was complimented with a visit to the Churchill War Rooms in London. The JNCOs have been just 52

as stretched by developing their defence writing skills, producing several point briefs and culminating with a syndicate brief. Sgt Hardman coordinated the week with help from the AEC Aldershot. SSgt’s Foster and Whitley were both successful on the RMAS Instructor Cadre. They will take up their new appointments in August. SSgt Hinton was selected to Warrant Officer Class 2 and leaves the Sqn in Jun. The Sqn had to say farewell to the OC; Maj John Frame, Sgt’s Gelling, Mould and Hardman on postings and maternity leave respectively. As of 1 Apr 2019, 85 Sqn came under the command of Lt Col A Moss RLC , CI Command Wing, and is looking forward to delivering CLM to the Corps under the new structures.

8 The Commando Speed March Team in front of the Commando Memorial following the event

Deepcut Support Unit (DSU) Cpl Alithia Gooding-Edghill recently qualified as a mental health first aid (MHFA) Trainer. She has been utilising her new qualification to its full potential, by conducting MHFA awareness courses. The JNCOs from the Sqn visited various locations in London to conduct CPD. The JNCOs visited the Poppy Factory where they were given a brief on its history and a tour of the facility in Richmond. All personnel where given the chance to produce their own poppy. The group then visited the Royal Hospital Chelsea. They were treated to a tour of the hospital and met some of the Chelsea pensioners who reside there, after the tour. Whilst in Chelsea the JNCOs also seized the opportunity to look around the National Army Museum, as it has recently updated all its exhibits. As of 1 Apr 2019 DSU is under the command of Lt Col J Brain AGC (SPS), CO Worthy Down Support Branch and will continue to support those at Deepcut Station and facilitate the sites closure. 8 LCpl D Hodgson wins the Highland Shield for best endeavour at the Commando Speed March

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27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col J C West • Adjt: Capt O Mcgarvey-Miles • RSM: WO1 W Eagle The first few months of 2019 have seen elements of 27 Regiment deployed on exercises and operations in the USA and Oman and Eastern Europe. Back home it has been all systems go on the sporting front. 77 Headquarters Squadron deployed to Austin, Texas in support of Ex WARFIGHTER 19.4. Working closely with US forces, the Sqn planned and executed the RSOI package and provided Real Life Support (RLS) throughout the exercise. The chefs maintained their impressive reputation amongst the US troops by providing a large range of high-quality dishes; even the US senior officers made the extra effort to travel across the camp to use the cookhouse. In addition to Ex WARFIGHTER, the Regt also deployed personnel on Op CABRIT, Ex KHANJAR OMAN 19, Ex PRAIRIE PHOENIX and Op ORBITAL; the latter of which involved deploying specialists to assist log supply and petroleum operator training. Internally, the Sqns have demonstrated an extraordinary ability to support the Regt in its endeavours as well as ensuring competency at all levels and disciplines. 8 Sqn put the Petroleum Operators through their paces on Ex LIGHTNING FLUID, whereas the regimental training wing saw 28 soldiers successfully complete the PNCO cadre. In preparation for the brigade operational shooting competition (the Regt secured second place), all Sqns competed in a regimental operational shooting competition, at which 8 Sqn prevailed. On the sporting front, the Regt’s Nordic ski team, with a mixed team of eleven competitors, deployed on four different exercises over the course of three months. Ex NORDIC NOVICE in Beitostolen, Norway, was the first phase of the season. It consisted of a two-week training package for the two disciplines; biathlon skate and classic. The vast tracks of Bietostolen were testing but

picturesque, offering some of the most impressive scenery - you just had to ski to the top of the high ground to see them! The team then went to Les Contamines, France, to compete in Ex PIPEDOWN (the divisional championships). With fierce competition, the male and female teams held their own. The men qualified for the next stage, and three of the females qualified individually. Both males and females finished third overall. The team then moved to Ruhpolding, Germany for Ex RUCKSACK (the Army championships). The racing schedule for the two weeks was busy, with the females that qualified now racing for the Corps. Technical and hilly, the stadium in Ruhpolding challenged even the best skiers. It was guaranteed that in every single race the infamous hill, ‘Dobbers’, would be included – in one biathlon race it was included five times! Both teams did

8 Breakfast US Army style themselves proud, with The RLC ladies finishing second overall. This boded well for Ex SKI RLC (the Corps championships). Despite poor snow conditions, the females won first place team and the males fourth place. Individually there were some great achievements, with an overall first in the female category and an overall third in the male veteran category. Eight members of the Regt also participated in Ex LOG BOARDER 19. This was a three-week snowboarding exercise that entailed a training package, as well as a competition in Flachau, Austria. Although six of the eight competitors had never touched a snowboard before, the Regt was placed second overall as a novice team, as well as second and third individually. As the first ever snowboarding event for the Regt, coming away with three podium finishes shows real promise for the future. Following the multitude of successes for the Regt across the sporting and military fields, it is now refocusing its efforts towards predeployment training for Op TOSCA. 8 27 Regt females take team win at Ex RLC SKI

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29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTH CERNEY CO: Lt Col C G Munce MBE • Adjt: Capt R D Irvine • RSM: WO1 L E Russell 29 Regiment RLC’s essential task of supporting operations and exercises has continued at pace. Beyond enduring operational commitments to the broader Middle East, Afghanistan, Iraq, South Sudan and each of the permanent joint operating bases and over 100 soldiers this year have been supporting the wider defence exercise programme. 80 Squadron led the latest BCS exercise. Due to the extremely high tempo of commitments that 29 Regt faces, when soldiers could deploy at any time, sqns rotate through delivering regimental BCS training exercises. This creates a regiment, which is full of comradery and friendly competition, as often soldiers from various sqns will now work together in the field. Additionally, the Regt has been delivering essential Postal & Courier Services operator training in the field, setting up multiple Field Post Offices during a trade training and field competency exercise. 29 Regt has also taken the lead for the 104 Log Bde Operational Shooting Competition, with Capt Limbrick and his training team putting soldiers from across the Bde through their paces in preparation for the upcoming FTC shooting competition. The Regt has also maintained its impressive drumbeat of sporting successes. The women’s netball team had an excellent result winning The RLC Corps Championship, winning the Boden

Cup. Members of the Regt also represented the Corps’ enduro mountain biking team at a national event held in the Forest of Dean, displaying some extraordinary performances. SSgt Hughes

8 WO1 Mark Richardson received his MBE

8 SSgt Hughes setting his sights on the Tokyo 2020 Olympics

8 2Lt Matt Lane (far right) with 29 Regiment shooting team and Brig NB Thorpe OBE, Comd 104 Log Sp Bde (centre rear)

(RAPTC) has been honing his skills by working with the GB Olympic development squad, having recently competed in the Cyprus Grand-Prix Clay Shooting competition. The Regt has also hosted Lt Gen TR Urch CBE, Commander Home Command, along with many other VIPs during the annual Rourke’s Drift dinner night where the Master Chef SSgt Heard presented an exceptional menu. The Regt is also supporting the 2019 Flying for Freedom Pilot Course, an organisation working in partnership with Help for Heroes aiming to take injured service personnel both serving and veteran flying to the South Pole later this year. Looking forward, 29 Regt will be the lead FTC Unit at Normandy 75, the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings, and will host the upcoming Corps Open Day on 6 Jul 2019. 29 Regt would like to welcome a new Ops Maj, Maj Dean Hammett, its three new OCs; Maj David Pass (59 Sqn), Maj Sam Cross (50 Sqn) and Maj Jody Slatter (99 Sqn). The CO also wishes to congratulate WO1 Mark Richardson on being made an MBE and Lt Tom Rushby on passing the All Arms Commando Course.

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150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL CO: Lt Col M Casey • Adjt: Capt K Gresham • RSM: WO1 P Doherty The start of 2019 has been a very busy time for 150 Regiment RLC with the challenging task of organising the 102 Logistic Brigade Operational Shooting Competition (OSC) along with a demanding regimental leadership skills package for all ranks. Successfully delivered by Maj (Hutch) Hutcheon and his busy G7 team for all units, both regular and reserve across the Bde area at Wathgill Ranges from 3-7 Apr 2019. The competition was run over four days testing and honing each team's marksmanship skills. Congratulations go to 158 Regt RLC the overall winners! The Bde is made up of members from the Royal Logistic Corps, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and the Army Medical Services. Led by WO1 Alan Poole 523 (HQ) Sqn, who organised the ‘Non-Service Pattern Light Weapons’ shoot to build upon the experience of firing foreign weapon systems from across the globe. The leadership skills weekend took place at QEB Strensall from 17-19 May. This package was designed to facilitate learning, development and the improvement of their leadership skills, learning from the fundamentals of leadership through to the

transactional and transformational leadership spectrum, building on teamwork completing command tasks. There were also other elements, including, orders, the seven questions and a variety of guest speakers from the Army Mediation Service (Speak Out!) and HQ 102 Log Bde. All this training over the two days looked at the Army Leadership Code and the seven leadership behaviours. 216 Sqn RLC was approached in Nov 18 by Lt Col Black from HQ 4

8 Leadership Weekend Bde, to help support the move of several pallets of paint in support of The Clervaux Trust. The Clervaux Trust offers day and residential care places to young people and adults with learning and behavioural difficulties. They support these young people and adults with valuable training, life skills and further education. The Sqn helped and supported the Trust by working with a local Tynemouth decorator, Stephen Hull, who donated pallets of paint to support their new adventure which is called The Fold and is located in Croft on Tess, Darlington. The Sqn transported the paint to Darlington and met the people who work there along with some of the young adults who are supported by the trust. The paint will be used in their new project which is an Army Family Centre to support parents and children facing loss, injury and loneliness. This will hopefully be up and running this year, to support their important and valuable community work within Catterick Garrison. 8 216 Sqn assists The Clervaux Trust

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151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CROYDON CO: Lt Col D T Miller • Adjt: Capt B Heinrich • RSM: WO1 V Chappell The past few months have seen some personnel changes within 151 Regiment RLC. The regimental 2IC, Maj Paul Billings moved on to become OC 201 Sqn in Bedford, with the UESO, Maj Ed Lewis taking his place. We have gained two new troop commanders: 2Lt James Hancock (124 Sqn) and 2Lt Will Kriehn (562 Sqn). This brings the total number up to nine, the most of any RLC Reserve regiment. It has been another successful skiing season under 2Lt Bullock (124 Sqn), who led the 151 Regt contingent on Ex KNEE-STRETCH and Ex SKI RLC. The team did well, putting in some good performances including the females getting fastest reserve team throughout the course and 2Lt Bullock and Capt Heinrich achieving 1st and 2nd Senior Reserve, in the classic discipline. At the sub-unit level, Cpl Diggins was one of only a handful of regular and reserve soldiers to pass the General Service Driving Instructor (GSDI) qualification at DST Leconfield. This means he can assess and qualify drivers not only across the Regt, but army-wide. A real asset to have in a transport regiment! Feb saw a new opportunity for reservists. Four JNCOs completed their team medic course, allowing them to apply advanced BCD and BLS capabilities and assist with MATT 3 lessons. LCpl Newman is once again representing the Regt in the Army reserve women’s football team. Following some build-up training weekends, the team will play as part of Corps Open Day and Armed Forces Day in the Summer. LCpl Hollick completed his PTI course, with two more soldiers due to complete it in Apr. Across the Regt, the PTI cohort is preparing for the new PES due to come in next month and transferring the new assessments in to the reserve. Four personnel deployed with 28 Sqn, 10 QOGLR to Sennelager on 56

Ex KHUKURI CHIL. The exercise involved an LFTT package including vehicle shoot, mounted serials and a dismounted phase testing JNCO leadership, over most of Feb. Back in London, Capt KirkhamSmith ran a much-needed troop commander’s study weekend going through all subaltern-related issues, from EC and managerial checks, to MS and logistics doctrine. Cpls Grainger and Simmonds completed their JNCO command, leadership and management course to make them substantive in rank. An important achievement as it demonstrates to budding Cpls across the Regt, what is required to reach the coveted role of section commander. In Mar the Regt teamed up with 165 Port & Maritime Regt to conduct Mexifloat training over a weekend. Unfortunately, Storm

8 151 Regt females crowned fastest Reserves

8 Mexi-float trg with 165 P&M Regt Freya meant the Mexifloats couldn’t go out to sea, but the drivers benefited from getting the vehicles on and off the waterborne platform. Conducting joint training with other Regts is something the unit will be doing more of in the coming training year. WO2 Pentelow (Ops WO, 124 Sqn) and Sgt Wells (Admin Sgt, 210 Sqn) received the Lord Lieutenant’s Award for Meritorious Service at an event in central London. The Regiment wishes Sgt Wells a happy retirement after an impressive 36 years in the Territorial Army/Army Reserve. In Mar, Lt Stevens and 2Lt Bullock joined soldiers from 10 QOGLR on their winter mountaineering expedition in the Scottish Highlands. Looking ahead to the new training year, there will be a focus on leadership and trade at all ranks. The Regt is particularly keen to develop our JNCOs professionally and personally in all aspects of soldiering, show-casing what the Army Reserve can offer. Later in 2019, the Regiment’s ACT will be the 101 Bde main effort, Ex IRON VIPER, taking place on SPTA where it will test our readiness and deployability as part of our mission.

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

152 Regiment’s main effort for the first quarter of 2019, was the final phase of its annual cumulative training programme. For the first time in recent memory, the RHQ deployed a full EXCON with reservist personnel holding critical positions. Each sub-unit deployed its own headquarters and exercised a simple report and return format aimed at testing internal procedures. The Sqns deployed to FS Aldergrove and various other parts of Northern Ireland to conduct live fuel operations. Supporting the exercise and the build-up and recovery phases, were Pet Ops from 152 Regt’s paired unit, 9 Regt RLC. 9 Regt supplied 20 personnel from C Troop, 66 Fuel and GT Sqn led by 2Lt Brady and SSgt McCrea to support 400 Sqn. The exercise was further bolstered by Sgt Stephenson and a section of C Troop, 8 Fuel and GT Sqn, from 27 Regt RLC. Not content with inviting half of the British Army’s Pet Ops to participate; also, taking part were 20 personnel from the 61st Quartermaster Battalion, US Army. In Jul 17 and 18, regimental personnel deployed to the US state of Georgia to train with the 61st Battalion so this was the reciprocal visit. The exercise allowed US counterparts ‘hands-on’ experience with the British Army’s fuel systems. Following the exercise some of the reservists took great pleasure in exposing our American cousins to the bright lights of Belfast, including some of the Game of Thrones tourist attractions.

Ex GREEN GRAMMAR As part of the revised conceptual development plan for the Regt, a staff-work and MS weekend was held at 211 (Tanker) Squadron in Londonderry. Led by Maj Dunlop (XO) and Capt Mitchell (Adjt) the captive audience were treated to various lessons on JSP 101, IRTBs and report writing. With the ongoing requirement for integration between the Army Reserves and the Regular Army, it was felt that these skills were required to improve the overall understanding and professionalism of the Offr, WO and SNCO cohort, who would likely be called upon as individual augmentees to 104 Logistic Support Brigade.

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Following the exercise some of the reservists took great pleasure in exposing our American cousins to the bright lights of Belfast, including some of the Game of Thrones tourist attractions

To balance the heavy-duty lectures, the Regt held a traditional Burns’ supper, complete with haggis, neeps and tatties with entertainment provided by the Regimental Pipes and Drums. Ex MUDDY WHEELS After basic training, soldiers join 1.5 Trg Troop. This is a troop of newly qualified soldiers that require licence acquisition. To help speed up the process within 211 Sqn, the SPSI

8 For the first time in recent memory, the RHQ deployed a full EXCON with reservist personnel

WO2 Patterson put together Ex MUDDY WHEELS. This was a bespoke package that covers modules one and two of the driver familiarisation pack. The course was run over three weekends, covering white fleet familiarisation and Land Rover conversion. The first weekend was theory based. The second weekend introduced the Land Rover with students driving the vehicle on and off road. The last weekend was focused around the use of route cards and driving in convoy, both on-road and off-road. It is a very beneficial course which paves the way for the B3 course which will be run in house later in the year in preparation for the up and coming OTX which will be held in Denmark. 152 Regt look forward The second quarter of 2019 will further challenge and develop the unit's troops. Ex GREEN SHADOW 1 is the lead up training for our OTX (Ex VIKING STAR) in Sep 2019. Subsequently Ex GREEN GRAMMAR 2 will look at developing the cerebral powers of our senior cohort, focussing on the construct and operation of the Theatre Enabling Group concept. Additionally, preparation will continue for our Level 3 AT expedition Ex FINN GLACIER, a multi event trip in Chamonix, France, as well as build up training for the Nijmegen marches in Holland. These opportunities continue to excite and engage the soldiers.

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154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DUNFERMLINE CO: Lt Col A Wilkinson • Adjt: Capt T J Oliver • RSM: WO1 K Poole 154 (Scottish) Regiment has enjoyed a fantastic 2019 ski season. In both Alpine and Nordic disciplines the Regt toasted success at corps, divisional, army and Inter Services levels. The season got off to a fine start at the Divisional Championships with the Alpine team winning the Super Giant Slalom. It was second in the Giant Slalom and third in the Downhill securing second army team overall. Pte Robert Poth won the Individual Giant Slalom and Super Giant Slalom. After a short trip over the Alps the team continued their good vein of form at the Army Championships, where they finished second overall, the highest position ever for a reserve team. Pte Poth also excelled winning eight of his nine races and in doing so became the Army Slalom, Giant Slalom and Super Giant Slalom champion. Following this success, Pte Poth was selected to represent the Army at the Inter Services Championships where he repeated his stunning feat of winning eight out of nine races to become the Inter Services Alpine champion of 2019, a remarkable feat. The season culminated in The RLC Championships where the Regt retained its title of Reserve Alpine and Nordic Team Champions. It was the second overall Alpine

LION STAR 3, with a main planning conference held to inform and shape the deployment to ensure time is maximised in Cyprus.

8 Pte Robert Poth and Nordic team and second overall Alpine team. Special mentions go to Pte Morven Todd, who was female junior champion, WO2 Mike Roberts who was champion Alpine racer and Pte Maxwell who won every reserve medal possible. A fine season across the board and one they will seek to emulate and improve upon, in 2020. Development weekend In late Jan, Maj Ferguson (XO) organised a development weekend for the officers and SNCOs of the Regt. On the first day, numerous briefings were delivered on a variety of topics including long term non-attenders, the climate assessment and MS. The day culminated in a wine tasting in the Sgts’ Mess, kindly organised by the honorary colonel. The following day the focus shifted onto the Regt’s upcoming overseas exercise, Ex

Uniformed services day 251 Sqn (Irvine) ran a uniform and emergency services course at the start of the year to provide college students with an insight into life in the Army. Throughout the week, over 30 students took part in several events, including command tasks, drill, first aid, navigation and communications. The modules were expertly delivered by regular and reserve soldiers from across the Regt. Brigade operational shooting competition Alongside 27 Regt RLC, the unit's partnered unit, the Regt organised and delivered the Brigade Operational Shooting Competition in Mar 2019. Maj Steven Mathieson (OC 221 Sqn) and Capt Mike Downes (2IC 230 Sqn) were integral in the reserve element of the competition which took place at Pirbright over several days with regular and reserve teams taking part in a series of challenging and diverse shoots with 102 Bn REME and 10 Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment triumphing as reserve and regular champions respectively.

8 154 Regt Alpine and Nordic teams 58

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156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL CO: Lt Col T Gould QGM • Adjt: Capt J Blake • RSM: WO1 B Gallagher In a bid to deliver trade training in a manner that is more accessible for reserve soldiers, 238 (Sefton) Squadron led 156 Regiment’s first LSS Class 3 – 2 consolidation course. With the blessing of 6 Regiment RLC, the course had access to the Supply Training Facility, Dishforth where soldiers built upon their trade knowledge gleaned on their basic course; participants expanded their proficiency of being a competent Supplier, specifically covering: Demands, issues, receipts and account husbandry. The pilot was a success that the Regt will seek to replicate later in the year. Sport Regimental football has experienced a resurgence this season under WO2 John McDermott. The team exceeded expectations by reaching the quarter finals of the Army Reserve Cup suffering a narrow defeat under trying conditions to 3 RWELSH. The team, nonetheless, has had a number of its players’ talents recognised; LCpl ‘Louis’ Reid was selected to represent both The RLC Reserve and Regular teams and in addition, Cpl Frantzen and Pte Murphy joined him in the National Army Reserve side. There is the desire to raise a Ladies’ football team in the coming months and the expectation of fielding both male and female teams in the Army Reserve six-a-side competition in Grantham later this summer. The regimental shooting team continues to go from strength to strength, building on last year’s performance at the Brigade Operational Shooting Competition, improving this year’s points by an eyewatering 50%. The team invested heavily in a shooting training camp splitting its time between the Altcar and Pirbright Ranges. Particular attention was paid to mastering the mechanics of the various shooting serials whilst understanding the idiosyncrasies of the competition range aided the

team’s performance. The team remains convinced that No. 4 Electronic Target Range at Pirbright defies the laws of physics! The team remains hungry for success and is looking forward to participating in the forthcoming 3 (UK) Division OSC; a first for the Regt. It is appreciated that joining the top table of shooting is a marathon, not a sprint, but the Regt remains convinced that it is up for the challenge! Looking forward The Regt commenced the new training year on the first weekend

8 The regimental shooting team has improved upon last year’s performance at the Brigade Operational Shooting Competition by 50%.

8 The football team exceeded expectations by reaching the quarter finals of the Army Reserve Cup

in Apr with an ACMT and AFT completed at Altcar. Initial indications are that the new shoot-move-communicate themed disciplines are being well received by the training audience. The unit is looking to build on its UK-based training with twenty-five personnel deploying on Ex LION STAR, an OTX with 157 Regiment RLC. In the realms of Adventure Training (AT), plans are being finalised by the event organiser, SSgt Morrell, SQMS 234 Squadron, for the SEAVIEW Regatta on the Isle of Wight, where RLC units will compete in Mermaid Class vessels. Looking further afield, ten soldiers will look to test themselves at altitude in the Sierra Nevada by undertaking the John Muir trail, whilst a further eight soldiers will participate in offshore sailing in the Algarve. On the operations front, the unit continues to fulfil its various UK MACA commitments, including Op YELLOWHAMMER and will be mobilising five of its number to deploy with 27 Regiment RLC on Op TOSCA in Sep.

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157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CARDIFF CO: Lt Col A M Madams • Adjt: Capt A J Gutzu • RSM: WO1 K Williams

157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC deployed over 70 personnel on Ex GREEN DRAGON in Abingdon from 16 - 17 Feb 2019. The exercise was aimed at challenging the Regt in a range of demanding military and logistic specific skills. Raring to go, the troops drove five hours to reach the RV point where an LO delivered the scenario SITREP. Over the next 24 hours, the composite aptly named Viper Sqn was tested on its cross-country driving, actions on ambush and routine in defence. The real test was in the final CBRN serial, where soldiers drove whilst in 4R on convoy lights – something that very few soldiers had ever done before. The CO and RSM didn’t miss out either, they were on foot tabbing around in 4R too!

8 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC deployed over 70 personnel on Ex GREEN DRAGON

And leading from the front, Maj Abel won Best Veteran Female! Meanwhile, a team of eight personnel attended the Brigade Operational Shooting Competition (BOSC) from 2-3 Mar 2019 at Pirbright. As it was the first time the relatively inexperienced team had shot in Osprey, they observed their regular counterparts, revised from the pamphlet and rehearsed the shoots. During the BOSC, the team’s morale never wavered. Although the Regt came away from the competition empty handed, it did qualify for a place in the Army’s Operational Shooting Competition. Ex STUDIOUS DRAGON 19 The annual leadership and conceptual study period, Ex

STUDIOUS DRAGON 19 was delivered by Maj Pete Harrison, OC 223 Sqn in Swansea from 1-3 Mar 2019. This year’s activity saw the officers and SNCOs journey to view the management of the civilian steel production plant, TATA at Trostre, a means of broadening the logistics knowledge of the Regt’s leaders. To finish up the intellectual package, on what was the weekend of celebrating the patron Saint of Wales, Saint David, a regimental dinner night was arranged. With several esteemed guests including Comd 101 Bde Brig Ewart-Brookes and DComd 101X Col Hearty QVRM VR in attendance, Maj Shearan (QM) was awarded his FTC GOC Commendation, WO2 Lloyd (224 Sqn) the Certificate of Service, after completing a full reserve career of 37 years and SSgt Llewellyn (223 Sqn), a Bde Comd’s Commendation. Following the presentations and a delicious dinner of traditional Welsh Fayre, the evening was incomplete without the ‘infamous leek eating ceremony’ in true tradition celebrating ‘Dewi Sant’ in great style! Commissioning Course Short 191 Congratulations to Second Lieutenant Oliver Pritchard who commissioned on 23 Mar 2019 in to 223 Sqn in Swansea.

Sport It has been another fantastic season for the 157 (Welsh) Regt skiers, despite being a relatively novice team from the offset, they did not fail to deliver the goods. Led by Maj Claire Abel, a total of nine medals were brought home. Of note, Pte Powell of 223 Sqn did exceptionally well in only his second season of skiing. His consistently good performance awarded him fourth reserve in the Male Overall rankings, including a great performance during the 10km race where he won third place. 8 It has been another fantastic season for the 157 (Welsh) Regt skiers

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158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH CO: Lt Col A Gifford TD • Adjt: Capt P Goodfellow • RSM: WO1 P Anderson Over the winter months 158 Regiment has focused on developing its basic soldiering skills, it has deployed on several challenging exercises as well as exploiting new technology, it also entered a team into the 102 Bde Operational Shooting Competition. During this period, it has bid farewell to the RSM, WO1 Goodridge and welcomed WO1 Anderson. BCS The Regt has focused on the Battle Craft Syllabus for its training at the beginning of this year. It has deployed on two challenging weekends of training, the first in Feb in Aldershot focused on the special to arm training. The exercise gave the Regt the opportunity to practice transport operations both day and night under challenging conditions and develop its SOPs. This was followed by a basic soldiering exercise in Mar at Yardley Chase. A progressive weekend, the exercise allowed soldiers to remind themselves of basic skills which were built upon throughout. This culminated in a demanding test day with the members of the Regt putting into practice what they had been taught. UBVT 158 Regt participated in a very exciting new concept of training with the use of the virtual training environment. Much like a game’s console, the controls allow you to manoeuvre your person or vehicle in the scenario. The main difference with the UBVT is the opportunity to participate in an environment which can be adapted to meet the needs of individuals. It was the Regt's first experience of the system and it's easy to see how you can save time and resource with the simulation as you're not burning fuel, using ammo and you can just reset and re-run the event if it all goes wrong. It is a great way to inspire the

soldiers to be creative with their decisions and its ideal for mission command and practice solutions in a safe and controlled environment. The package gave a fantastic opportunity to practice vital command and control skills and it was a very productive weekend,

8 The Regt was awarded the prize as Brigade Champions at the 102 Bde Operational Shooting Competition

8 The two RSMs shake hands everyone is looking forward to the next opportunity to progress with the package. Shooting team In Apr, the regimental shooting team competed in the 102 Bde Operational Shooting Competition. It was a particularly hard-fought event with a very high standard of shooting. At the end of the weekend the Regt was awarded the prize as Brigade Champions. Looking forward In the coming months the Regt looks forward to continuing its build up training for the two-week Annual Continuous Training in Sep. In addition to all this hard work it will be making use of the improving weather to conduct adventurous training at The RLC lodge in the lake district and conducting a battlefield study on urban operation.

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159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COVENTRY CO: Lt Col P Allen • Adjt: Capt A Hanna • RSM: WO1 N Cabo Following on from the last iteration, the 159 Regiment RLC team returned after an extremely successful expedition to Ex RLC SKI. A total of 12 people deployed to Bavaria for just over two weeks. The teams competed in both Alpine and Nordic disciplines. Well-deserved congratulations must go out to Pte A Smith for bringing home a plethora of medals on the Nordic front and to LCpl D Parker, who brought home a medal for the Alpine team. The championships were a fantastic opportunity for the soldiers to take part in these adventure sports, which put them outside of their comfort zones. Even more humbling and rewarding was the ability to take one soldier on their first ever trip abroad. As the snow began to melt and the memories of skiing faded away the Regt starts to make the transition to the summer. This included 159 Regt taking the lead on Ex BARBARIAN LEADER, a potential Non-Commissioned Officer command leadership and management course. It was split into two phases and covered the theory and practical aspects of leadership. It was a hugely

8 OCdt R Cartern

successful course that helps identify future leaders in the Army. A huge thank you to Maj A Nicholson and his team for a fantastic two weeks! A massive congratulations to former Private and now Officer Cadet, Ryan Cartern, who successfully passed Army Officer Selection Board and will be attending Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the coming months. It was down to his determination, diligence and determination that aided in his success. The Regt is looking forward to welcoming him back as a junior officer following his commissioning course. And if that wasn’t enough he was also the runner up on the Brigade Operational Shooting Competition with the pistol. A man of many talents and an asset to the Regt. Over the summer the Regt will continue to run its Access to Logistics (A2L) course which offers a consolidated training package taking someone from a civilian to a trade trained soldier. The unit are the only RLC regiment to offer such a package and will continue to do so. The Regt is preparing for a change of commanding officers. A date has been set to dine out the current commanding officer, Lt Col P Allen. Lt Col Allen will be handing over the reins to Lt Col S Dines. The

8 Alpine Ski Team unit wishes Lt Col Allen the very best of luck with his future endeavours and hope he will stay in contact with the Regt in the future. This quarter has the PSAO of 237 Sqn, Capt Alan O Brien, sighing a huge sigh of relief. He has been left without an OC for the last few months but has now warmly welcomed Maj Adam Rendall into the position and is looking forward to taking a long overdue holiday with his family in the summer. Despite this gap, the Sqn has continued to grow in strength and has recently deployed one soldier away on Op TOSCA. More to follow in the next edition. In 243 Sqn, it was an honour to watch WO1 Barry Withers receive a Lord Lieutenant’s certificate from WMRFCA for his services towards the Cadet Association. Mr Withers has been a member of the Reserves for the last 37 years and has worked his way up to the impressive rank of Warrant Officer Class 1. To quote his citation “He is a man of considerable energy and he continues to produce results in any area required and always of the highest quality with his forte firmly recruiting and training”. An asset to the Sqn and a great friend to the Regt.

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM CO: Lt Col T Hope MBE • Adjt: Capt B Spilsbury • RSM: WO1 J Thompson The first quarter of 2019 for 162 Regiment has primarily focused on increasing trade capability in preparation for the 2019 Annual Continuous Training (ACT) camp and CT2 exercise in BF(G). These two significant events will see 162 Regt work alongside, and in cases replace, its regular counterparts from 29 Regt RLC. The CT2 exercise, due to be validated by HQ 104 Log Sp Bde, will see a composite reserve Squadron Head Quarters replace the current regular incumbents of 69 PC and MC Sqn, 29 Regt RLC based in Bielefeld, Germany. The day to day Postal Courier and Movement Control trade taskings across BF(G) will be conducted by reservists throughout this period; the first time such an exercise will have taken place. Elsewhere, 162 Regt has continued to provide manpower in support of 104 Log Sp Bde with two members of the Regt deploying on Ex JOINT VENTURE for the majority of Mar. The Adjt (Capt Bruce Spilsbury) stood in as SO3 G1 for the CT5 validation exercise conducted in Sennelager, Germany, whilst LCpl Hopper (282 Sqn) provided real-life catering support for the duration of the three-week exercise.

Soldier Conditioning Review (SCR) The recently introduced Soldier Conditioning Review (SCR) was attempted by 281 Sqn for the first time during its recent MATTs weekend. With over 50 soldiers attempting the new physical standards, it provided a great opportunity for Sgt Yexley (RAPTC(I)) to introduce the new format to a wide audience. Having overcome a number of teething problems, the consensus amongst the audience was generally positive with soldiers commenting on how the broad range of exercises were

8 The recently introduced Soldier Conditioning Review (SCR) was attempted by 281 Sqn for the first time during its recent MATTs weekend

far more inclusive than previous assessments and far better suited to the modern soldier. Look forward As well as some exciting trade opportunities, the Regt will be organising several Adventure Training packages and charitable events over the summer months. In early Jun, the Regt will deploy to Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre to conduct hill walking, mountain biking, rock climbing and ghyll scrambling. The RAO, Maj Bruce Spencer (AGC(SPS)), is in the process of finalising details for the Coast to Coast walk, an event which will see up to 20 members of 162 Regt attempt the arduous trek during the summer of 2019. On the Community Engagement front, the RAO is also heading up the ‘Walk to Remember’; a 20-mile walk through southern Derbyshire beginning at the National Memorial Arboretum in memory of fallen personnel. 8 The consensus was generally positive with soldiers commenting on how the broad range of exercises were far better suited to the modern soldier

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165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC PLYMOUTH CO: Lt Col C Hampton-Stone • Adjt: Capt P Cussins • RSM: WO1 M Dowland The winter season proved to be another extremely busy one for 165 Port & Maritime Regt. Promotions were in abundance with Maj Stu Vernon getting the ball rolling with his fantastic achievement of being selected for Lt Col. Others soon followed with SSgts Gaz Musson, Mike Smith and Andy King picking up WO2. There was also a plethora of WO2s who were selected for WO1. Study weekend The Officers’ Mess held its study weekend in the grandiose setting of the Wardroom at HMNB Devonport, Plymouth. The conceptual study began with syndicates mulling over focus questions on the Regiment´s Management Directives and finished with an open discussion forum covering a myriad of hot topics. The cerebral activities sandwiched a fantastic regimental dinner night which welcomed the Brigade Commander, the Honorary Colonel and other guests including officers from the unit’s sister regiment, 17 P&M Regiment and officer cadets. Training and exercises Other training continued at a frenetic pace with a BCS weekend held at Glyn House and a Special to Arm training weekend which saw 165 P&M work together with 151 Transport Regt to achieve a road move down to the Sea Mounting Centre and then onto Mexi floats. 142 Vehicle Squadron also had its latest crop of soldiers learning their Vehicle Specialist skills at Ashchurch and becoming proficient with their trade. Other officers and soldiers have been representing the Regt on diverse tasks stretching from Kansas to Turkey: Ex EAGLE OWL saw Cpl Mataitini (710 OH Sqn) deploying as MT support to over 200 personnel from the UK’s Defence Academy, working closely with the US National Guard and US Army. 64

Two officers also deployed as British observers to the garrison town of Kars in Eastern Turkey. Here they observed a Turkish Brigade live fire exercise, witnessed impressive equipment displays and got to see the Turkish Commandos display their competency in the use of shelters, igloos and snow holes. As well as UK observers, the exercise had numerous other countries contributing and observing which created a fantastic opportunity to see how other nations do their business. Adventurous Training As ever the balance was not all work and study with 165 P&M Regt

8 165 Regiment’s ski team finished as second Reserve team and fourth overall

conducting some excellent and fulfilling AT during the last period. Ex MULBERRY SNOW in Vallandry, France provided ski foundation courses for novice and intermediate skiers. Fourteen members of the Regt attended and had a mix of snow conditions which proved to be a challenging week. Secondly, Ex DHEKEKIA DIP was held in Cyprus which provided members of the Regt, some of whom had never previously dived, the opportunity to dive on shipwrecks, including the Zenobia, once they had mastered the basics in a swimming pool. The Regt was also extremely well represented by the skiers at The RLC Ski Championships in Bavaria with a few highlights including; first Alpine Novice won by Pte James Ferguson, Maj Rob Weston placing as second Veteran and second Reserve and Sgt Maj Claire Richards scooping first female Reserve and first Veteran. Overall, the team finished as second Reserve team and fourth overall, an absolutely fantastic achievement. 8 Ex DHEKEKIA DIP provided members of the Regt the opportunity to dive on shipwrecks

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167 Catering Support Regiment RLC GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col J A Cattermull • Adjt: Capt J Gajdus • RSM: WO1 A Ward A team from 167 Catering Support Regiment, led by WO1 (SSM) Chris Marsden, deployed on Ex EAGLE OWL in Ft Leavenworth, Kansas for four weeks. They delivered all catering and logistical matters to the exercising staff and students. Ex EAGLE OWL consisted of 220 regular officers on ICSC(L) and ten chefs, who supported throughout. The average age of the team was over 40 and as such, age brings experience, which leads to wisdom, expertise and a wealth of knowledge! The continuous professional development journey for each member of the team was very encouraging as they learned new skills and adapted their own personal learning to better support the logistical mission. Royal Oman Catering School Whilst most of the country was celebrating the festive break, a team of reserve chefs led by WO1 (SSM) Martin-Chambers were invited by the Omani Defence Attaché to assist with the delivery of the six-week Royal Army of Oman Senior Head Chef course for a fourth time. The main objective was to coach, mentor and develop the Omani assistant instructors and students in both chef, catering and hospitality management skills. The training consisted of three phases; confidence building exercises, professional cookery classes and refining cookery skills. The course ensured that the

assistant instructors were able to deliver their own training, so they were self-sufficient. All aboard! In Oct 2018, two soldiers from 167 Regt were selected on a Full Time Reserve Service secondment to the Royal Navy as chefs. Their predeployment training consisted of water safety, dealing with major flood damage, fire-fighting and the Basic Sea Survival Course. LCpl Ryan Adams joined HMS Dragon, a type 45 destroyer taking part in Ex SAIF SAREEA (Swift Sword) in Oman. It then took part in a Replenishment at Sea (RAS) exercise and was involved in maritime security operations, seizing illegal drugs worth over £56 million. He said: “My main role is ‘Chef’, catering for over 250 crew which on this occasion included planning and producing a cocktail party

8 Technical Training Team in Oman menu for 48 VIPs. I also assisted in controlling firefighting crews when required. The main highlights which stick out for me are having the chance to visit Oman, Dubai, Beirut, Ukraine and Kuwait, which I don’t think I would have ever done if I had not joined 167 Regiment!” LCpl John Edwards was employed at Naval Command before joining HMS Queen Elizabeth, a QE class aircraft carrier. He helps cater for over 500 crew in-port and 1500 at sea over the ship’s five galleys. “The main highlight for me is that I am developing such a diverse range of catering and non-catering skills. Being part of 167 Catering Support Regiment and gaining the skills, knowledge and experience, gave me the confidence to volunteer for an FTRS post. It makes me feel proud to do my part in helping to provide effective chef capability to our Armed Forces,” he said. Sport In other news, the ladies Nordic Team went on to become The RLC Ladies Nordic Reserve Team Champions 2019 for the fifth year running! Congratulations also go to Maj Lucy Eldred who was third female in The RLC President’s Race. 8 Ladies Reserve Nordic Champions 2019

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2 Operational Support Group RLC (2OSG) GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col A Hoey • RSM: WO1 A Clayton

In the last quarter of Training Year 2018/19 2 Operational Support Group (2OSG) HQ has been very busy ensuring its reservists can qualify for the Commanding Officers Certificate of Efficiency. This has resulted in a comprehensive and productive MATTS package that was undertaken in Mar 2019. The training team and permanent staff worked hard to bring together a successful and engaging three days. The 2 OSG ski team was deployed to The RLC Ski Championships in Ruhpolding, Germany under the direction and mentoring of Maj Nial Browne. With a combined age of 180, 2 OSG’s Nordic Patrol Race team was probably the oldest to compete! Sgt Nodwell PSI arranged a very successful adventure training

8 Adventure Training Canoe Syndicate “Before Getting Wet”

exercise at ATFW Castle Martin putting nine group members through the staple disciplines of hillwalking, climbing, canoeing and mountain biking. Despite the mature makeup of the attendees (average age 45), no lasting injuries were sustained, aside from a momentary lack of trust when the youngest group member tried to drown the oldest group member during a trust exercise aboard a canoe. But all was forgiven after a piece of cake and a red-hot latte. Group HQ 2 OSG was able to host the 104 Log Bde Comd, Brigadier N Thorpe, OBE on 15 Feb 2019 during which he was able to meet students on the Contract Management Course and present them with their certificates. The group welcomes back Sgt McNee from the rigors of his RSI course at Leconfield and congratulates him on a successful course. Since his return, Sgt McNee, a FA Level 4 referee, has thrown himself into his refereeing duties with both the Army and the FA minor leagues. 500 Communications Troop This has been a relatively quiet period for 500 Comms Tp but it has had personnel deployed on Class 1 & 2 Comms Op Cse, RLC Ski, MATT 3 Instructors Cse and AT in Wales.

8 104 Log Bde Comd, Brigadier N Thorpe, OBE with the students and instructors of the Contract Management course

The RSWO (AR) WO2 Chris Haith is now in the chair and running the troop after the recent departure of WO1 Mark Hobson. Sgt James (Jimmy) McNee is formally welcomed to the troop as the Permanent Staff Instructor (PSI) and should be congratulated on recently passing his RSI Cse. WO2 Haith also passes on his congratulations to all those who recently passed their Class 2 and Class 1 upgrading courses. Looking ahead to TY19/20, the troop is preparing for BCIP 5.6 uplift, supporting 254 Med Regt and 102 Bde in Sep19, along with providing communications support to 104 Bde on Ex IRON VIPER from Sept to Oct 19. RRMT After a busy 2018 the RRMT had little time to reflect on business before starting the 2019 recruiting programme, with over 30 events already booked and with three local colleges looking to visit 500 Communication Troop, it’s going to be another hectic recruiting year. Congratulations go to Pte James Grimwood (500 Comms Tp) on successful completion of his CMS Phase 1 Bravo at ATR Grantham.

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) BENSON, OXFORDSHIRE OC: Maj E Andrews • SSM: WO2 G Johnson

The Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) continues operating across the UK and globally. This is in support of exercises and Support Helicopters in several different environments. The Sqn currently has Helicopter Handling Teams (HHTs) and members of the RAF Mobile Air Operations Team (MAOT) deployed in the United States of America (California and Idaho), the Falkland Islands and in Mali on Op NEWCOMBE. Teams are also conducting their routine tasks in Odiham and Benson and on national standby to support any UK emergency requirement. MAOT has also been busy revalidating UK, USA and European landing sites, helping maintain JHC rotary asset operational capability. CT1 and CT2 JHSS deployed on a two stage CT1 and CT2 exercise which saw the Sqn initially deploy to Longmoor Camp to conduct low level BCS. This ran the Sqn through the basics of field craft operating out of a harbour and then moved on to fire team and section attacks. Sections were made up of RLC, AAC and RAF personnel many of whom who had not conducted green training together or in the BCS format. The serials included day and night navigation and TES equipment, giving a solid

introduction to those members of the Sqn not familiar with operating in a tactical environment and building on existing knowledge for those who had. The week culminated in the obligatory final dawn attack. The Sqn then transitioned to Salisbury Plain where it conducted a logistic inload of stores and Under Slung Loads, ranging from green fleet vehicles to barrels, Flat Racks and SIMMO. Despite the weather and parts of the plain being inaccessible due to snow drifts, the Sqn carried on prepping and rigging loads, conducting HLS recces and working with partner AAC units to conduct specialist Heli Handling training. This allowed those experienced members of the Sqn with multiple

8 JHSS in action at Longmoor Camp to conduct low level BCS

8 The Sqn in operation on Salisbury Plain international detachments to pass on knowledge to newer members and give them invaluable experience. The Corps Col and RSM both managed to beat the weather to visit on consecutive days with the Corp RSM getting some time ‘under the disc’ and gaining an appreciation for CH47 downwash. Business as usual Upon the successful recovery from CT1 and CT2 the Sqn has again ramped up to a busy programme of supporting ops and exercises across the world. The exercise season in California will see three to four HHTs of five deploy for up to 70 days, whilst UK exercises like KUKRI DAWN and European exercises like SWIFT RESPONSE will keep those not in Mali or the Falkland Islands busy. Finally, the commitment to Ex CLOCKWORK, supporting Cdo Bde training over winter, will close down with a team returning from Norway. From Apr 2019, the Sqn will be busy with only 25% of personnel on station, all other personnel are tasked either on deployment, leave or course. As always JHSS remains a busy and exciting Sqn offering a unique joint, multi cap badge experience and a unique opportunity within The RLC.

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Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion (ARRC) GLOUCESTERSHIRE CO: Lt Col N Thomas QDG • Adjt: Capt R Gibbs • RSM: WO1 M Cox Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion (ARRC) has enjoyed a demanding start to 2019. A deployment on Ex RATTLESNAKE in Mar provided the focus for a detailed force preparation package which included dismounted close combat, combat engineering and expeditionary logistic support. 14 Squadron deployed an allarms group to Louisiana, to embed with the 3rd Brigade Combat Team of the 101st Airborne Division, in Feb. Sappers, Logisticians and Infanteers deployed as exercising troops and also a number of personnel were employed as observer controllers. What followed was an exceptional exercise, which gave all battalion soldiers an experience of significant scale and high-grade training. The swamplands of Louisiana and a highly capable enemy battalion provided a challenging training environment. Following the exercise, those deployed got to sample the delights of the southern US New Orleans style. Exercises As a three-star headquarters, the ARRC regularly plays host to high profile events, one of the largest being Ex LIONHEART. Hosting of some of the biggest names in

8 Lt Gale has been putting his team through their paces in preparation for Ex TIGER ARRC

8 Ex RATTLESNAKE was a detailed force preparation package

NATO, from the Defence Secretary to DSACEUR and Chief of the General Staff, the conceptual study day was led by Commander ARRC. Meanwhile, Lt Gale has been putting his team through their paces in preparation for their exploratory alpine mountaineering expedition to Greenland Ex TIGER ARRC, where they will tackle previously un-climbed peaks and glaciers. Over two weeks in Scotland they all achieved their summer and winter mountaineering foundation qualifications. They will be returning to Scotland regularly to practice their mountaineering skills

ahead of their expedition in Jun, which will see them summiting numerous peaks along the eastern coast of Greenland. Lastly, the battalion had great success at Ex Ski RLC this year with several wins, including Capt Suff RLC being selected to represent the Corps at the Army Alpine Champs. Upcoming events The battalion is now in the planning phases for Ex ARRCADE FUSION when the 3* HQ will deploy into the field, in preparation for a period of readiness as NATO’s lead Corps Warfighting Headquarters. Other opportunities include a battalion live fire package and some high-grade adventurous training in Malta and Portugal. 8 The ARRC regularly plays host to high profile events, one of the largest being Ex LIONHEART

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

Typhoon Squadron - DTUS LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY CO: Wing Commander D Chatten RAF • SSM: WO2 NJI Young RLC Typhoon Sqn has experienced another busy start to the academic year both in and out of uniform during this last quarter. Despite the approaching midyear exam period, its officer cadets have continued to deliver high standards of training whilst at the same time having to balance their academic studies with military life. Although Christmas marks a welcome break in the academic calendar for some, for the officer cadets of Typhoon Sqn it was time to step up a gear or two as they all deployed onto various exercises around the country and overseas. Ex TYPHOON TACK 2 The Sqn undertook the first of two sailing exercises of the academic year in and around the Solent and Isle of Wight amid unusually warm and dry weather. Richard Clegg and Kyle Franklin led the exercise which saw six officer cadets having to get to grips with nautical terminology whilst at the same time having to tie knots, navigate, raise or lower sails many times and make endless cups of tea for the skipper, WO2 Ish Young. Everyone enjoyed the exercise, gaining plenty of sailing experience which they all hope to build upon later in the year in more trying weather conditions. Ex TYPHOON TRACK Jessica Kelly and Oliver Pope organised the sqn’s main Adv Trg exercise for this winter, which saw one staff member and nine officer cadets depart the green fields of Loughborough for the slightly more snow-covered surroundings of Ruhpolding, Germany. Once established in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps, the troops undertook six days of Nordic Skiing, with the aim of gaining a Nordic Foundation Level One qualification. Not only did all the officer cadets have to learn how to ski cross country, but they were also given Command Appointments during the week which saw them having

8 OCdt Jack Morrell on the hills to take responsibility for a number of tasks, such as stores, transport and finance to ensure that the exercise continued to run smoothly. After a hard day’s skiing there was no let up as skis required waxing then lessons on weather and emergency procedures were delivered by the instructor, before a randomly selected officer cadet would have to back-brief the others in the evening on the activities of the day. All of which was designed to develop their confidence and leadership skills for the future. A successful week of training concluded with a qualification, high morale and a call for the Sqn to repeat the exercise again next year, but next time with less hill reps.

8 Learning to balance without using ski poles

8 Testing weather during the ski touring day AT in Castlemartin Ryan Connor was over the moon to be accepted onto his Rock Climbing Foundation Course at the start of the year, and even happier to discover that he would be the IC for the week along with four other First Year officer cadets from the Sqn. Just as happy was Liana Haynes who with another four of her peers was the IC for the following week on an Open Canoe Foundation Course. Both were looking forward to a week of training that took place at Castlemartin on the Pembrokeshire coastline. As potential future officers, the Sqn is looking to invest in them to become a rock-climbing supervisor and canoe instructor at a later date benefitting both the Sqn and the wider Corps in the future.

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Logistic Support Squadron (LSS) BARNSTAPLE OC: Maj J Vain RLC • SSM: WO2 M Smith RM It has been a hectic term for Logistic Support Squadron (LSS) which has seen troops deploy on the regimental main effort Ex AQUILA and Ex NORTHERN WINDS battling the elements in Norway. A logistic support detachment has also deployed to 29 Palms, USA, in support of 45 Commando. The remainder of the Sqn has deployed on Ex SOUTH WEST SWORD, a waterproofing and wading focused exercise and Ex DIDACTIC in support of 47 Air Despatch, where LSS troops controlled DZs on Saunton Sands Beach. The Sqn has also been inundated with courses such as FLRT Operator, ADR and a select handful have attended the Advanced Inventory Management Courses to provide a new capability to 3 Commando Brigade. But the Sqn is maintaining its reputation for playing hard also, with six ranks competing in The RLC Ski Championships in Germany where they competed in both Nordic disciplines, as well as the 20km Patrol Race. LSS competed in the Army Cross Country Championships and came away with Minor Unit Runners Up along with Capt Sheppard taking third place overall and earning a place at the Inter Service Cross Country where he once again finished a credible third. Spean Bridge Commando Speed March The training for the 2019 Spean Bridge Commando Speed March began on the first day back from Christmas leave. Held at Spean Bridge, Scotland, the race consists of a seven-mile individual best effort carrying 16.5kg/36lbs from the Spean Bridge Railway Station to the Commando Training Centre at Achnacarry House. The Regt entered ten competitors with seven coming from the Sqn, ranging from Pte/Mne to the Commanding Officer, who conducted regular physical training 70

on an intensive two-month programme. A much tougher competition than the previous year saw the team finish joint fifth out of 18, with third place only two ‘team average’ points away. Winter deployment 19 Commandos are expected to operate in an array of unique and challenging environments and are considered the experts in Arctic Warfare; a skill-set becoming ever more relevant in today’s geopolitical climate. Subsequently, this winter, CLR deployed to Norway on Ex AQUILA 19 to learn how to survive, fight and sustain their dependencies in the frozen North. The deployment commenced with the Cold Weather Warfare

8 LS Ranks conducting survival training in a Quincy Snow Shelter

8 Arctic camouflaged SV in Norway Course (CWWC), an infamous month-long package, where initially soldiers learnt how to survive in the barren landscape; sleeping in snow-holes and brushwood shelters in temperatures as low as -30°C. Following this, the course entered the mobility phase, before culminating in the tactical phase, where the soldier’s ability to move, fight and operate against the enemy was thoroughly tested. Once fully trained, CLR deployed on Ex NORTHERN WIND 19 in Sweden. This was a 10,000-strong exercise, working in conjunction with four of its NATO allies. The huge geographical scale of the conflict tested CLR’s interoperability with its Norwegian allies. Pre-AACC The four weeks long Pre-All Arms Commando Course has begun. The mandatory course run by the Sqn prepares individuals for the PreCommando Physical Assessments (PCPA) held at the Commando Training Centre, Lympstone. The course is designed to train and educate the individuals in physical fitness and military skills including familiarisation with the bottom field assault course, commando style kit layout and speed marches. More information on becoming an Army Commando from Sgt Hayes Russell.Hayes102@mod.gov.uk

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

Logistics Wing, Cyprus Operations Support Unit (COSU) CYPRUS OC: Wg Cmd C Brown • OC JLS: Maj K Ritchie • Adjt: Capt J Hill For the Postal and Courier operators (PC Ops) in Akrotiri Airbase (COSU) Cyprus, the job stands to change drastically if Brexit results in a no deal. In Mar 2019, the PC Ops of Akrotiri conducted two exercises demonstrating how a no deal Brexit could affect receiving and dispatching mail for all of the British Forces Post Offices in Cyprus at Limassol New Port (LNP). The exercises were conducted in collaboration of the civilian logistics company CPPC and the Sovereign Base Areas Customs Officers who have been working tirelessly with PC Tp Technical Warrant Officer WO2 Hutchinson to find a solution to a no deal Brexit. During the exercises, members of PC troop and CPPC showed how they would have to move received air mail to LNP by the CPPC drivers with a Mail Guard where it would then be sorted into respective BFPO's. The SBA Customs Officers then practiced how they would need to conduct checks and place taxes on valuable items which get held in a "Quarantine zone” where customers will have to pay import tax before collecting it. The remaining mail would then be distributed to the BFPO's as normal. Because LNP is the busiest overseas Forces Post Office destination remaining in the British Army, the processing of mail and the customs checks take a very long time and there have been talks between Customs officials and the CO of CPPC to improve the speed at which the mail is processed with the introduction of conveyor belts and increased space for vehicles. With Brexit on the horizon, the BFPO's are at their busiest since Christmas in contingency planning and will likely be just as busy after Brexit but with the new plans for the mail. The aim is to maintain the service provided to the island and have as minimal impact as possible on service that Cyprus PC Troop provide to the Sovereign Base Areas.

8 Two exercises were conducted demonstrating how a no deal Brexit could affect receiving and dispatching mail

8 LNP is the busiest overseas Forces

8 The SBA Customs Officers then

Post Office destination remaining in the British Army

practiced how they would need to conduct checks and place taxes on valuable items

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Defence Munitions (DM) Kineton Station TEMPLE HERDEWYKE CO: Lt Col J N Williams • SSM: WO1 S Brennan

This quarter has seen Kineton continue to punch above its weight with its output to wider Defence. The winter period saw the unit deploy on a CT1 exercise, maintain its operational output of processing ammunition for the field army and deliver on the Army STEM policy. Country and Western or chalk and cheese – Maj M Ross RLC Busy with a plethora of munition processing tasks for 2019, ATSG (part of DM Kineton), deployed itself on Ex INFANTRY WARRIOR, a tenday field exercise to refresh and practice key and fundamental soldiering skills that may not have been used since basic training. Focusing on the development and

8 Kineton’s Nordic Ski team won Best Overall Mixed Team trophy aided by Sgt Bray and Cpl Fuller

mentoring of JNCOs, the Ex empowered JNCOs to develop plans, give orders and then enact their plans within a modern military conflict context. Upon return to DM Kineton the very next day, those same troops were back to the day job in the Ammunition Process Buildings. Rifles, webbing and helmets were replaced with lab coats, PPE and risk assessments as they returned to complete the mammoth task of de-fusing some 42,000 artillery shells. Whilst a fairly mundane and repetitive task, it is one of many that is not only safety critical, but has a positive effect in many areas, saving costs to DE&S, ensuring a safe product for the troops and allowing for soldiers to expand their technical excellence. Kineton STEM team The winter saw the STEM Team engage in some of their largest events yet. The Army STEM Ambassadors aided the RAF in their Fly to the Line competition which saw 91 primary school children build gliders and compete against each other to win the greatest distance. During the half term break, the team spent the week at the British Motor Museum, one of its long-term community partners. This involved the STEM Ambassadors building pneumatically launched k’nex

8 ATSG deployed on Ex INFANTRY WARRIOR to refresh and practice key soldiering skills

rocket cars and saw 679 visitors during the week. The last major event of the winter was the National STEM Cadet Competition held at Welbeck Defence College. The ammunition technicians were the sole RLC representatives at the event and presented the competing cadets with engineering command tasks. The tasks tested the 260 cadets on their mechanical reasoning and teamwork in a variety of tasks and gave the college students an opportunity to quiz the Ammo Techs on a future career as Explosive Engineers. Ex SKI RLC Kineton’s Nordic skiers returned victorious from the 21st Ex SKI RLC held at the world-renowned Ruhpolding Stadium in Germany. The 13-day event saw the athletes rack up the miles in both the classic and skate disciplines, competing in 5, 10 and 15 km races, ending with the Blue Ribband 20 km Patrol Race. Their hard work paid off as they retained the Best Overall Mixed Team trophy. This achievement is testament to the two ladies, Sgt Bray (team captain) and Cpl Fuller who led the way against their RLC cohort.

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

Silver Stars By Maj R M McSpadden OC With the 2019 parachute display season looming, The RLC Silver Stars army parachute display team (APDT) began its preparations in earnest. The team, accompanied by the REME’s Lightning Bolts APDT deployed to Cyprus, for Ex SILVER LIGHTNING. This exercise is the team’s annual pre-season training and 2019 was the first joint venture for both teams. With abundant knowledge and experience on both sides, the exercise promised to be an excellent opportunity for us to learn from one another. Long before sun rise on 16 Mar, 16 Silver Stars and 16 Lightning Bolts were bound for RAF Brize Norton to board the flight to Akrotiri. Before the day was out, we had joined the advance party and all 34 of us settled into Dhekelia Garrison. While a classroom-based Sunday, covered essential lectures, Monday could not come quick enough. We were keen to get our knees in the Cyprus breeze. The morning’s blue skies didn’t disappoint, and the teams descended upon the Joint Service Parachute Wing (Cyprus) at Kingsfield. By the time the first day of jumping was done, we had collectively completed over 100 parachute descents. With an array of experience levels in the team, the following days saw a variety of activities. One member completed AFF training to qualify as an A licensed skydiver; new members focused on increasing their basic accuracy and jump numbers; intermediate members proved their pinpoint accuracy and gained display clearance for the first time and the seasoned display jumpers reaffirmed their currency on the team’s various parachutes and ancillaries (smoke and flags). As the

week drew on, amidst theory lessons, display training intensified. Individual exits from Kingsfield’s Cessna C208 Caravan were filmed and critiqued. In-air parachute skills developed and landing approaches and accuracy were scrutinised. With over 450 jumps completed, the first week ended on a high and the team was well placed for the week of real time displays around the island. Week two saw displays conducted in a controlled environment at Akrotiri and Dhekelia. This offered the newly display qualified members, a taste of the pressures and risks, of real-time display parachuting. Both APDTs sent teams of display jumpers into Kingsfield, with Commander British Forces Cyprus aboard and watching from the aircraft cockpit, to mark the opening of the new aircraft hangar.

8 Great weather enabled 700 jumps

8 Confirming currency with smoke and flags

Back in the azure-blue sky surrounded Akrotiri, the displays continued, to the delight of local families and schoolchildren. The forecast predicted deteriorating weather for the last few days of training, but one final flourish allowed for a final day of jumping back at Kingsfield to consolidate training, capture some last photos and take the opportunity offered by high lifts for some freefall fun from 13000ft. Fast paced and demanding, both physically and mentally, Ex SILVER LIGHTENING was an unparalleled success. Over 700 parachute descents were made in total by the Silver Stars, averaging 55 per member. Display clearance was granted to a new generation of team members and everyone gained currency and competency on a plethora of parachuting equipment and ancillaries, plus individual achievements galore! Thanks to the management of Maj Rick McSpadden (Team OC) and SSgt Dean Hoskins (Team Leader), the invaluable combined training with the REME Lightning Bolts and the support of Episkopi and Dhekelia Garrisons, the Station Commander, Air Ops and ATC at RAF Akrotiri, BFBS Cyprus and the Chief Instructor and his team at JSPW(C) at Kingsfield, the Silver Stars move into the 2019 display season, prepared and raring to get going! 8 Follow RLC Silver Stars on Facebook and @RLCSilver_Stars on Twitter.

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE Cpl Danny O’Connor RLC of 104 Logistics Brigade and his fatherin-law, WO1 Craig Dignam AGC (SPS), have completed a charity walk from Torrox Costa in Spain, to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar. Covering some 111 miles, in four days, their mission was to raise funds for SSAFA. The decision to walk four marathons in four days, on the Iberian Peninsula was taken just after Christmas 2018, mainly because previous long walks for charity, the pair completed, took place in the cooler countryside of the UK. The family members trained hard for the walk, with Cpl O’Connor having to fit it in whilst on exercise in Germany and Skiing in Austria. WO1 Dignam walked over 360 miles over three months to ensure his stamina levels were adequate for the challenge ahead. WO1 Dignam says: "We walked 42 miles on day one to Benalmadena, which was exhausting. It took us 13 hours with a couple of 20 minute refreshment stops on the way. "Day two was less mileage and with us only covering 30 miles. We finished walking by 5.30pm and reached day two’s destination, San Pedro De Alcantara, in good order. "Day three was a shorter distance again and took us on from San Pedro De Alcantara to San Diego. It was testing in other ways, as the heavens opened and drenched us, but it was light relief in the end. "Day four was euphoric ,with Danny and I hyped up ready to complete the walk of our lives. We started a little later only because the distance was significantly less than all the previous days. We were joined by Dave and Andy, two expats living in Duquesa, who walked alongside for the entire distance until we reached La Linea on the beach. Seeing the Rock in the distance was a real pick-me-up. Two lads from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, greeted us at the Spanish Gibraltar border at 14:45hrs. All we had to do now was walk to the top of the rock. We met this final challenge with renewed energy helped by the other people completing the final 74

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Walk the rock

8 The father-in-law and son team conquer the Rock

four miles with us. We conquered the Rock at 16:25hrs on Saturday, 20 April."

The duo’s fundraising page is still open. Anyone wishing to make a donation to SSAFA can do so at: https://www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/craig-dignam3 WO1 Dignam concludes: “We are already planning for a repeat of this next year, however we are looking at expanding the participants to all military units in UK who can organise a marathon in their location and then hopefully have some members join us for the last 26.2 miles from Spain to Gibraltar.

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RLC FOUNDATION | THE SUSTAINER

The Royal Logistic Corps Foundation exists to foster the relationship between The RLC, industry and academia; sharing best practice, knowledge and mutual understanding amongst logistics professionals. The theme for national and regional events in 2019 is: “demand forecasting, planning and risk management in logistics; from both the commercial and military perspective.” On 28 Feb The RLC Foundation held its launch event at Waltham Cross, London, which was generously hosted by Andy Mewes, director business management, Yodel. Yodel gave a fascinating insight into its integrated planning and development approach, when using data to identify risk within its business model. Accurate data is required to assist forward planning and overall risk assessment must be properly assessed otherwise it affects output. Yodel is in the process of an internal structural review and has now established a direct link with its commercial and operational business which aids future demand forecasting. Colonel Ian Skipper, AH Ops DSCOM gave an overview of how the military coordinates its integrated defence supply forecasting on operations. A comprehensive risk assessment is required to address future sustainment and the commander’s intent. Risk assessment is a vital tool when recovering our armed forces back to the UK after a particular operation or deployment. A lively debate followed, which brought out interesting analysis of the market challenges, affecting the armed forces and the commercial sector.

Foundation visits Yodel

On 28 Mar, World Fuel Service (WFS) hosted an event at RAF Northolt. The event was attended by 46 delegates from industry, the Pet Op trade and the wider military community. David Cork, WFS’s operations director opened the event with an overview of WFS operations and the challenges it faces, when operating in a global environment. David highlighted the complexity of international fuel resupply routes and the problems they face on a daily basis. These problems ranged from maintaining the correct levels of fuel quality assurance from refinery to the customer and the further decanting risk factors when transferring the product to road, rail, sea and air assets against the backdrop of insurgent disruption in the middle east. WO1 Paul Franks, Command Petroleum Warrant Officer at Army Headquarters, round off the morning presentations by giving an overview of current military fuel

capability, demand forecasting and safe systems of work that Pet Ops must adopt when conducting fuel operations. In the afternoon all delegates visited an airfield demonstration of WFS aviation bulk fuel storage tanks, viewed bowser operations and visited a fuel testing laboratory. The Pet Ops displayed their Joint Operational Fuel Systems both for mobile light operational capability with 3 Commando Brigade RM and the much heavier bulk fuel installation, which demonstrated the field storage aspect of fuel resupply. RLC Foundation contacts: Alan Woods Alan.Woods195@mod.gov.uk Chrissie Ross Chrissie.Ross100@mod.gov.uk Tel: 01252 833389 Follow us on LinkedIn or Facebook search for Royal Logistic Corps Foundation or our websitewww.rlcfoundation.com.

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THE SUSTAINER | MUSEUM

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Museum Musings By Maj (Retd) Simon Walmsley Director, The Royal Logistic Corps Museum The contractors have erected the outer steel frame for the new RLC Museum at Worthy Down. Opening to the public in spring 2021, the new exhibition space is more than twice the size of the current display area and will allow many more exhibits to be shown, including more of our historic vehicles. Every inch of the new museum building has been carefully designed, from the double height central gallery with viewing platform, to the large and impressive medal room. Alongside a dedicated research room, there is a presentation room and gift shop. With a large vehicle store visible to the public and a café on site, the new museum will offer visitors a lot more to see and do, allowing us to show off many of the treasures we currently have hidden away. The museum display cases and galleries will also all be new. Working with PLB, the museum design specialists, the new galleries will have exciting new display cases, interactive activities, new text panels and touchscreens, along with many more uniforms, weapons and hither to untold stories from The RLC’s past. Broken down into 12 time zones, called “epochs” the new museum will tell the story how the Corps and its predecessors supported the Army since before the Battle of Waterloo. Starting in medieval times and progressing through to today’s RLC, including every major war or conflict, the story of logistics will unfold. From the provision of black powder and musket balls, to modern artillery shells and complex engine assemblies, NSNs and computerisation, the complex nature of military logistics will be told. All major trades and activities will be covered, and displays will include: catering, air despatch, postal services, EOD and driving. 76

8 SKANSKA and the Museum Team New acquisition The RLC Museum has recently acquired a Chinese Labour Corps (CLC) Cap Badge and intends to use it to tell the story of how during WW1, the Labour Corps recruited large numbers of foreign or “alien” labourers to support the war effort, including a significant number of Chinese. In Apr 1917 the first members of the CLC arrived in France. Recruited directly from China and arriving by steam ship, by 1918 nearly 100,000 had been recruited. They had British officers, often former missionaries from China and British NCO’s, although they had their own rank structure which included Lance Corporals known as “gangers”. Issued blue uniforms, with felt caps and well paid by Chinese standards, they worked behind the

lines where they dug trenches, built roads and railways, repaired tanks and, after the war, cleared ordnance, buried the dead and restored the land to agricultural use. Things did not always go smoothly, there were strikes due to insufficient rice rations and like most soldiers some discipline problems, normally due to gambling or petty theft. However, on the whole things went well. The Chinese labourers were tall and strong, due to a rigorous recruitment and selection process, although an eye condition called trachoma was prevalent and in total about 1,000 of the labourers died in France from disease, accidents or enemy action. Unfortunately, their bravery was rarely officially recognised and of the 52 MSMs awarded to the CLC only five went to Chinese soldiers. 66475 First Class Ganger Liu Dien Chen was recommended for a Military Medal for encouraging other CLC to continue to work whilst enemy shells were exploding close to them, but regulations forbade that he receives the award, which was reduced to an MSM. The last CLC returned to China, via Canada, arriving in Sep 1920. An often forgotten and unrecognised contribution to the British Army in WW1, they were members of the Labour Corps, so can be considered predecessors of the modern day RLC. 8 Major General Kerr, Chairman of the RLC Museum Trust shaking hands with Simon Walmsley the Museum Director

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ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

Lucknow The transport elements of the Military Train were based in Horfield Barracks, Bristol (1856–59) followed by Woolwich (1859-60). In 1856 the Land Transport Corps was renamed ‘The Military Train’. The value of having trained transport personnel had been recognised in the Crimea, where their importance had been recognised by Sir Willian Codrington, who had taken command of the forces in the Crimea. The Train was at first organised in six, then seven battalions. Its most famous battalion was the Second, which was formed at the Curragh, in Ireland by Maj Robertson. He accepted only the very best soldiers, mainly cavalrymen from the Life Guards, Scots Greys, Light Cavalry and some Horse Artillery. The battalion was selected in 1856 as the most efficient battalion for service in the China War. It embarked at Woolwich, but on arriving in the straits of Sunda (near Singapore) was order to India to assist in quelling the Mutiny. On arrival at Calcutta, Robertson was asked what his battalion could do. His reply was: “Anything: cavalry, infantry, or provide gun teams”, so he was allowed the free pick of 500 horses of a native cavalry regiment, which had been dismounted as its loyalty was suspected. The battalion went into Central India under General Sir Henry Havelock, with a force to relieve the besieged British in Lucknow. On 25 Feb 1858 the battalion was ordered to capture two guns, but to reach them it had to pass the whole right flank of the rebels, some 30,000 strong, and drawn up as if on parade. By a miracle, not a man was hit, though only 100 yards from the enemy who opened fire at once. On sighting the guns, which were loaded and were supported by a strong party of infantry, Major Robertson ordered the charge. Every one of the enemy was cut down or put to flight. In recognition

RLC Battle Honours

Credit: Shutterstock

The Battle Honours displayed on the Drums of The RLC, were passed down from the predecessors of the Royal Corps of Transport:

of this gallant act, the two guns were placed outside the lines of the Military Train and all the infantry turned out to cheer the battalion on its return to camp. Pte Samuel Morley and Pte Michael Murphy were awarded the Victoria Cross for daring gallantry on the 15 April 1858, when engaged in the pursuit of Koer Singh’s Army from Azimghur, in having rescued Lt Hamilton, Adjutant of the 3rd Sikh Cavalry, who was wounded and surrounded by the enemy, who were cutting and hacking him whilst on the ground. Both Murphy and Morley cut down several men and although Murphy was himself severely wounded, both he and Morley never left Lt Hamilton’s side until support arrived. When the 2nd Battalion left India, the Governor-General issued a special congratulatory order and a salute of guns was fired. The order is as follows: THE CALCUTTA GAZETTE Extraordinary Saturday, 23 Apr 1859. No 573 of 1859 Notification Fort William – Military Department 22 Apr 1859 The Second Battalion, Military Train, is under orders for immediate embarkation for England. The career in India of this Corps has been short, but brilliant and eminently serviceable to its country.

8 The Residency Lucknow Upon arrival at the Presidency, it was at once converted into a Cavalry Force and sent into the Field under Sir Henry Havelock. Throughout the glorious and most trying summer campaign of which the first Relief of Lucknow was the fruit, the Military Train bore a part which would have reflected credit upon the oldest and most experienced cavalry soldiers. It has since served with distinction in various affairs under Lt Gen Sir James Outram at the Siege of Lucknow, in the operations about Azimghur, and lastly in the harassing Campaign of Shahabad. The Military Train leaves India with the best wishes of the Viceroy and Governor General-in-Council for the future Honour and prosperity of the Battalion. A Salute will be fired from the guns of Fort William on the departure of the Corps. By order of His Excellency the Viceroy and Governor-General of India in Council. A further recognition of the Military Train’s service in the Mutiny was the award of the coveted Battle Honour – LUCKNOW Maj Robertson was created a Companion of the Order of the Bath. 8 The members of the 2nd Battalion erected a memorial to their comrades who had died in the Mutiny. This plaque, which names 2 Officers, 21 NCOs and 33 Private Soldiers, can be seen today in Bristol Cathedral.

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORT

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The 2019 Royal Logistic Cor It was Wednesday 15 May 2019 and the scene was set at Gale Barracks, Aldershot, the venue for The RLC Boxing Championships and home of 27 Regiment RLC. 24 fighters had won through the preliminary knockout tournaments to face each other in the final. In the presence of the Master General of Logistics, Lt Gen Sir Mark Poffley KCB OBE, Commander Regional Command, Maj Gen Duncan Capps CBE and numerous honoured guests, the Corps witnessed an excellent night of sportsmanship and courage as The RLC’s best novice amateur boxers took to the ring. Streamed live on Facebook, the event attracted over 12,000 viewers. CO 27 Regt, Lt Col John West and his team are congratulated for hosting a superb night of boxing and hospitality. All the boxers displayed high levels of skill and determination and their outstanding performances, bode well for the future success of The RLC boxing team. Possibly unique in Army boxing, was the sixth bout of the night. A totally all female affair, with female boxers, a female referee, watched over by the female master of ceremonies, WO1 (RSM) Eagle, the RSM 27 Regt. 5 Team Winners 2019 - Male - 13 Air Assault Support Regiment Rlc Female - 6 Regiment Rlc Team Runners Up 2019 - Male 17 5 Port And Maritime Regiment Rlc Female - 4 Regiment Rlc 5 Best Boxer - Pte Millington 27 Regiment Rlc 5 Most Gallant Boxer - LCpl Sarjant 27 Regiment Rlc

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SPORT | THE SUSTAINER

Photography: Peter Shakespeare

rps Boxing Championships

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LAST POST Amor – On 26 April 2019, Mr R Amor RASC Astley – On 12 January 2019, Mr D Astley RCT Auger – On 11 May 2019, Maj C B Auger BEM – RAOC Barnard – In December 2018, Capt P Barnard RASC Baughan – On 6 February 2019, Mr G Baughan – RAOC Bellinger – On 13 January 2019, Mr M Bellinger RCT Bennett – On 30 April 2019, Mr I Bennett RASC Blackburn – On 23 January 2019, Mr R Blackburn RCT Bowrah – On 30 March 2019, Mr R Bowrah BEM – RAOC Boyle – On 27 March 2019, Maj GP Boyle RCT Brandie – On 10 February 2019, Mr G Brandie RCT Brooke – On 24 February 2019, Mr D J Brooke – RAOC Brooker – On 15 February 2019, Mr DH Brooker RCT Brown – On 28 January 2019, Mr G Brown RCT Bruce – On 18 February 2019, Mr I Bruce RCT Brunger – On 19 February 2019, Mr R Brunger RCT Carver – On 7 May 2019, Lt Col MB Carver RCT Caswell – On 14 May 2019, IP C Caswell – RAOC Causier – On 9 January 2019, Mr W Causier RCT Clarke – In April 2018, Mrs P Clarke Colvin – On 5 April 2019, Lt Col C Colvin RCT Currie – On 2 March 2019, Mr J Currie RAOC Devonport – On 18 January 2019, Mr S Davenport RCT Dobson – On 3 January 2019, Mr A Dobson RCT Dobson – On 7 February 2019, Mr S Dobson RASC L D’Honneur Donnison – On 30 April 2019, Mrs E Donnison Easthope – On 10 January 2019, Mr R Easthope RCT Evans – On 3 January 2019, Mr E Evans RCT Flanagan – On 16 February 2019, Mr A Flanagan RCT Gregory – On 27 March 2019, Maj R M Gregory – RAOC Griffiths – On 27 January 2019, Mr L Griffiths RCT Guile – On 7 February 2019, Mr G E Guile –RAOC Hall – On 5 March 2019, Mr DB Hall RLC Haynes – On 23 January 2019, Mr K Haynes RCT Healey – In April 2019, Mr PE Healey RCT Henderson – On 10 April 2019, Lt Col DM Henderson TD RCT Hind – On 9 February 2019, Col R K Hind – Late RAOC

Hobson – On 6 March 2019, Lt Col J F Hobson BEM RAOC Hodgson – On 11 October 2018, Mr A Hodgson RCT Homewood – On 28 March 2019, Mr EG Homewood RASC Hooper – In November 2018, Mr RJ Hooper RASC Imrie – On 2 March 2019, Mr G Imrie RAOC Ingle – On 27 April 2019, Lt Col D C Ingle RPC Isaac – On 2 May 2019, Col C J Isaac Late RAOC Jamieson – On 4 December 2017, Mr (ex–WO1(RSM)) Jamieson RAOC Lynham – On 13 January 2019, Mr P Lynham RCT Malpass – On 8 February 2019, Mr (ex–WO1)(Cdr)) A Malpass RAOC McCandlish – On 22 February 2019, Mr M McCandlish RCT McCarthy – In January 2019, Mr A McCarthy RCT Merkel – On 31 January 2019, Mr HR Merkel RASC Morgan – On 27 February 2019, Mr R Morgan RCT Morse – On 1 January 2019, Mr P Morse RCT Murray – On 26 January 2019, Mr R Murray RCT O'Neil – On 12 February 2019, Mr P O'Neil RAOC Pieri – On 12 January 2019, Mr F Pieri RCT Pitt – On 19 February 2018, Mr W Pitt RCT Plimmer – On 15 March 2019, Mr N E Plimmer RAOC Podzuns – In March 2019, Mr B Podzuns RCT Potter – On 22 April 2019, Mr (ex–WO2) R Potter RAOC Russett – On 27 January 2019, Capt D Russett RCT Shore – On 13 January 2019, Mr G Shore RCT Smith – On 12 February 2019, Mr SR Smith RCT Smith – On 21 January 2019, Mr J Smith RCT Smith – On 25 October 2018, Mr J Smith RASC Thomas – On 5 March 2019, Maj A Thomas MBE RASC Todd – On 27 February 2019, Mr J Todd RCT Twiner – On 18 January 2019, Mr K Twiner RCT Vandeleur-Boorer – On 19 March 2019, Maj J F V Vandeleur–Boorer RAOC Webster – On 18 March 2019, Maj BR Webster RCT Willis – On 9 January 2019, Mr R Willis RAOC Yaxley – On 6 March 2019, Mr JR Yaxley RASC

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Camping - Â£5.00 No Caravans or Large Motorhomes

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JOIN US AT THE RLC CORPS OPEN DAY

SATURDAY 6TH JULY 2019

Duke of Gloucester Barracks, South Cerney, Nr Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 5RD TIMINGS: Corps Open Day 12:00 - 17:00 Party in the Park 18:00 - late

Reoffender Operation 77 DJ Just Caveill The Decade Doctors

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Food stalls Camping Beer tent