The Sustainer - Summer 2022

Sustainer THE

Journal of The Royal Logistic Corps R SUMMER 2022

Her Majesty The Queen Celebrating 70 years of loyal service

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 30 No 2 R Summer 2022

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32 40 59 77

Contents

20 Interoperability

3 RLC Association

28 Ukraine

The RLC Association holds its first all-ranks

5 Colonels Commandant Brig Luedicke becomes an RLC Colonel Commandant

10 RLC Athletics Results and pictures from the Corps championships

The RLC shares best practice with US Army

An RLC Foundation Book Club analysis

32 Ukraine Insights from the Op ORBITAL media officer

35 Vive La France DCLPA cements its Franco-British defence partnership

37 The RLC Museum Crimean War…A lesson from the past

40 The RLC Boxing The Corps boxing championships return in 2022

42 Unit news A round-up of reports from across The RLC

77 Ex WAGON CHALLENGE 6 Regt creates a WW1 mil skills event in Yorkshire

EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to the summer 2022 edition of The Sustainer.

For those of you who follow The RLC or British Army on social media, some of the images of the Corps and Forming Corps on this month’s cover will be familiar.

A national theme of Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee has been to reflect on events and moments from each decade of her wonderful 70-year reign. A few weeks ago HQ Home Command asked all the Arms & Services HQs to submit images taken of their corps or regiments that reflected this theme. I am pleased to say that The RLC’s submission – several courtesy of The RLC Museum – was the first to be published on the British Army website and across its social media channels.

So what are the images on the cover that represent 70 years of service to The Queen and country?

1950s – An RASC driver at the Brandenberg Gate in Berlin 1960s – Trainee chefs at the ACC training centre in Aldershot 1970s – 29 Sqn RCT driver training in Hong Kong 1980s – The RAOC Commando Ordnance Sqn Op CORPORATE 1982 1990s – The rebadging ceremony prior to the RLC Formation Parade 1993 2000s – 1 Log Sp Regt RLC Op TELIC medals parade, Germany Charter: The Sustainer records the activities and achievements of the Corps family, its units and personalities, as well as the organisations of the Forming Corps and their Associations. It keeps soldiers of today in touch with each other and soldiers of yesteryear in touch with the Corps of today. The Journal is not only a means of cohesion and communication within the Corps but also a source of research material for posterity.

Editorial Staff Editor: Peter Shakespeare Assistant editor: Miss Katherine Lack Email: rlcsustainer@gmail.com Graphic Design: David Blake Copy deadlines for THE SUSTAINER: 11 Jul 22, 7 Oct 22, 16 Jan 23, 17 Apr 23 Change of Address: Serving members of the Corps who are due to move into or out of non-RLC appointments (eg E2) and other subscribers are requested to notify the Editor of their change of address. No information, no magazine!

Publisher: The Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps, RHQ The RLC, DCLPA Worthy Down, Winchester Hampshire. SO21 2RG. Email: peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Tel: +44 (0) 7901 676309 Typesetting, Printing, Binding and Distribution: Holbrooks Printers Ltd, Norway Road, Hilsea, PORTSMOUTH, Hampshire PO3 5HX. Data Privacy: We distribute The Sustainer using mailing data held in a secure contacts database within RHQ The RLC. Your inclusion on this database is by virtue of the fact you are serving in the military, or you are a current member of the RLC or Forming Corps

2010s – 17 and 165 P&M Regt personnel deliver humanitarian aid Hurricane Dorian 2019 2020s – RLS outside Kabul Airport Op PITTING 2021.

While we are unable to publish any detail of The RLC’s involvement with NATO’s support to Ukraine, other than what has already been released by Defence, we hope to do so in a future edition. But we have brought readers an insight to the background to the conflict courtesy of the RLC Foundation Book Club.

Additionally Capt Alex Stephenson describes his experiences as the Op ORBITAL media officer in Ukraine during the weeks leading up to Russia’s illegal invasion.

On the subject of NATO, Interoperability is also a common theme in this edition with accounts of work going on with the logisticians within the US and French armies. The theme for the autumn edition is ‘technology’. This is the second pillar of The RLC Strategy and we are inviting contributions that show how the Corps is leveraging technology to deliver world-class logistics to our Armed Forces.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this edition and I hope you will find it an informative an enjoyable read.

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

Associations. The Sustainer only uses your personal data for the purpose of sending you the magazine. The mailing data is treated in the strictest confidence, is password protected, is only shared with our printer and is deleted after each use. If any serving RLC personnel have concerns with regards to the storage and use of their personal data they should contact RHQ The RLC’s Data Protection Officer, Richard Stockman. Richard is Assistant Regimental Secretary and can be contacted at: Richard.Stockman256@mod.gov.uk Photographs: The Editor accepts photographs for publication on the understanding that those submitting them have, where required by data protection legislation, obtained consent to publication from those depicted. Anyone who believes this is not the case or has a DPA related concern should contact the Editor. peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk Advertising: There is normally no space for commercial advertising, please contact the Editor.

Security: This Journal contains official information. It should be treated with discretion by the recipient. © Crown Copyright: All material in this Journal is Crown Copyright and may not be reproduced without the permission of the Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps. © Cartoons are copyright.

Disclaimer: No responsibility for the quality of the goods or services advertised in this Journal can be accepted by the publishers or their agents. Advertisements are included in good faith. The contents of this Journal and views of individual authors or units does not necessarily reflect the policy and views, official or otherwise, of the Corps or Ministry of Defence.

Front Cover: Images: The RLC Museum, Defence Images, Shutterstock.

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THE SUSTAINER | NEWS

#BritishArmyLogistics

The Colonel RLC Reserves

Colonel Phil Stone has taken up post as Colonel RLC Reserves. He takes over from Brigadier Gillian Wilkinson who moves to the APC on promotion to take up the appointment of Deputy Military Secretary (Reserves).

Colonel Stone joined the Army as a soldier in 1984. He was commissioned into the Royal Corps of Transport in 1987 and after an initial tour as a Recruit Troop Commander in Aldershot, he was posted to 16 Tank Transporter Squadron in Germany and completed operational tours on Op GRANBY and on Op BANNER. A posting to the School of Logistics followed where he taught on all the junior officers’ courses.

As OC 20 Sqn, he was heavily involved in planning and supporting military events in London, in particular the funerals of HM The Queen Mother and HRH Princess Margaret.

After three years as SO2 CSS Commitments in Army Headquarters, he was posted to 4 Logistic Support Regiment as Second in Command.

The unit deployed to Afghanistan on Op HERRICK 6 providing logistic

Six members of the Corps are recognised in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours The following RLC and late RLC officers and RLC Warrant Officer have been granted state honours by Her Majesty The Queen in the annual Birthday Honours List: Brigadier NC Allison CBE Brigadier JEA Chestnutt CBE Lieutenant Colonel RA Emmerson OBE Major DP Cornwell MBE Captain PM High MBE Warrant Officer Class 1 JR Hutch MBE

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support to 12 Mechanised Brigade.

On promotion to Lieutenant Colonel, he attended ACSC and was subsequently posted back to Army Headquarters as SO1 Logistic Assurance charged with conducting logistic support inspections of the Army’s main overseas bases. He was then selected for command of 167 Regiment RLC in Grantham.

Colonel Stone left the Regular Army in 2012, immediately transferring to the Army Reserve. He was appointed as SO1 G7 Training in Grantham before moving to a Career Management Policy role in the Army Personnel Centre in Glasgow, where he was charged with introducing the Reserves’ Beige List. In 2017, he was posted to the newly formed Reserves Directorate in Army Headquarters focussing on reserves policy and integration. During this time, he mobilised under Op REDFOLD and deployed to Cyprus to assist in BREXIT planning for British Forces Cyprus. From January 2021, he was seconded to the Strategic Centre within Army Headquarters to support planning and implementation of the Integrated

Review with a specific focus on Army Reserve structures within EMBANKMENT. From August 2021, he was the lead SO1 for implementing the initial stages of Army Reserve Transformation.

Outside of work, Col Stone lives with his wife Jenny and his two daughters Martha and Eliza in Andover. In his spare time he enjoys travelling, restoring classic cars, and watching and participating in any sport.

‘I am delighted to have been selected for this appointment and to have this opportunity to serve with the Corps once again. It is an exciting time to be a reservist and although there are significant challenges brought about by Future Soldier, I believe there will be many opportunities, not least for better training and further Regular/Reserve integration. For the first time in many years the Army Reserve has a defined purpose to deliver for warfighting and a secondary task to provide UK Resilience. I look forward to working with you all and having the opportunity to meet with as many of our reservists as possible over the next three years’.

PLATINUM JUBILEE MEDAL

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Medal has been awarded to eligible members of HM Forces, the Police, Fire, Ambulance and Prison Services at parades across the UK. On 31 May 2022, at Worthy Down Station 256 personnel from the

Station's Tri-Service staff formed up on the parade square where they were awarded their medals by the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire.

The square became a sea of colour as squads were organised into mixed services and cap badges.

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#BritishArmyLogistics

NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

WW1 theme for Platinum Jubilee Walk

FUTURE SOLDIER The personnel of 60 CS Squadron QOGLR have joined 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC as the newly formed 15 Squadron QOGLR. Pictured above, the CO and RSM of 13 AASR, Lt Col R Edwards and WO1 G Patterson, visit the Sqn in Abingdon, to present members of the Sqn with the red beret worn by the units of 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team.

4 Regt has welcomed the new OC of the 60 CS Squadron RLC, Maj Andy Edwards and those who are joining the Regt to reform 60 CS Sqn RLC.

Royal Logistic Corps Horse-Drawn Heritage is participating in the War Horse Memorial Platinum Jubilee Walk.

Taking place between Monday 4 July and Sunday 21 August; dressed in WW1 uniform War Horse Memorial ambassador Rob Underhay (57) and his Cob cross pony, Blaze, will walk the 520 miles from Balmoral Castle to Windsor Castle. Blaze will give the appearance of a WW1 pack horse with authentic harness.

Supporting events in Durham, York, Melton Mowbray and Windsor are planned along the route.

RLC Horse-Drawn Heritage will provide authentic WW1 horse-drawn vehicles under the supervision of Lt Col (Retd) Edward Waite-Roberts and Major (Retd) John Butler with support provided by Major Alison Shaw.

War Horse Memorial hopes to raise enough funds to help RLC Horse-Drawn Heritage with its restoration programme and give a bursary to one young apprentice to be trained in the skills of restoration.

The RLC Association dinner The first RLC Association dinner took place at the Garrison Officers’ Mess, Bicester on Friday 25 March 2022. 70 plus diners were in attendance across all ranks and the reception and entertainment was provided by a 10 QOGLR Piper,The Waterloo Band and The RLC Corps of Drums by kind permission of Colonel Pat Allen ADC, Colonel RLC. The President of the Association, Major General Ian Copeland CB, welcomed the guests and thanked all the RHQ The RLC staff who had participated in the organisation of the event, particularly the VFCEO Victoria Parkes and Regimental Secretary Lt Col (Retd) Steve Yafai. Additionally, he

thanked the Bicester Garrison Commander and all the mess staff who made the evening such a success. This was the first such event held by the Association and it hopes

it will be the first of many opportunities for Association members to catch up with friends old and new. To join the RLC Association scan the QR Code.

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A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE The Colonel RLC

‘‘

Part of that normal is of course that RLC units and specialist personnel are fully committed to operations globally and continued support to UK operations through MACA tasks

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My first six months as Colonel RLC have flown by and from the limited opportunity that I have had to visit RLC units and people; it is great to see that business has returned to normal.

Part of that normal is of course that RLC units and specialist personnel are fully committed to operations globally and continued support to UK operations through MACA tasks. While much attention continues to focus on the eastern flank, I was recently briefed on the UK Operations’ support to the Commonwealth Games. This is a significant undertaking with a healthy RLC presence supporting EOD tasking and Real-Life Support.

Regarding operations in Eastern Europe, further evidence – if any more is needed – regarding the significance of operational logistics, both in the lack of logistic planning and preparation by an adversary; but also how coordination and control of good logistics and associated distribution, is a disproportionate force multiplier and operational level enabler.

Never has there been a better time to be a #proudlogisitician.

By the time this issue of The Sustainer hits the streets we will be looking forward to the RLC Sports Awards and the RLC Corps Open Day, having delivered the RLC Association inaugural (all ranks) Dinner Night and a range of sporting events such as the Briggs Cup, the Barry Cup, the RLC inter-unit football and the RLC inter-unit Cricket Championship and a range of other events including the Corps boxing night and Corps athletics championships.

At Corps level we continue to

achieve huge sporting success, including: Men’s football winning the Massey league, 4 Regt winning the Army Cup and 152 Regt winning the Reserve Cup. Women’s football won the Army Cup and were runners up in the league and RLC cricket won the Inter-Corps T20.

17 Regt won the Army Rugby Union Premiership Shield, and of note, nine RLC players represented the Army in the Army vs Navy Babcock Trophy at Twickenham.

Much of the sporting and social events in the RLC diary are funded from the RLC Charity and from subscriptions into the RLC Day’s Pay Scheme. We have been working hard to modernise the scheme to ensure better access, transparency and how the scheme benefits you. The Charity Commission report can be found online (registered charity 1024036) and we have produced an easy to understand guide to the Days Pay Scheme which is currently being distributed to units.

Finally, huge congratulations to the following who received state honours and awards on the Operational List: The Queen’s Commendation for Bravery: Captain LE Russell. Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service: Lieutenant Colonel C O’Brien, Staff Sergeant A Pearson.

I also extend the Corps’ congratulations to those who were recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2022: Brigadier NC Allison CBE, Brigadier JEA Chestnutt CBE, Lieutenant Colonel RA Emmerson OBE, Major DP Cornwell MBE, Captain PM High MBE and Warrant Officer Class 1 JR Hutch MBE. Hugely well deserved.

Colonel P A Allen ADC

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

Higher Command and Staff Course (HCSC) 22

Brigadier Anna Luedicke OBE

By Brig Tim Crossland – Comd 102 Log Bde

The booklet welcoming us to HCSC 22 proclaims that attendees are within the top 2% of Defence.

Gulp! Imposter syndrome hits immediately. Whatever the reality, it is an absolute privilege to be granted four months of full-time study at this stage in our respective careers.

The 2022 course saw four attendees who were previously from The RLC – we believe this to be the first time the Corps has had so many students on one course. Focused on the operational level and with 41 members from Defence and various partners across government, the course has benefited from the slight easing of COVID-19 restrictions this year.

With visits to Paris, Israel and a capstone staff ride to South Korea it has been an enlightening and rewarding course. Refreshed and with batteries recharged, we are now looking forward to the next stage of our careers.

Pictured are the late RLC members in Jerusalem with the Defence Attaché (DA) Colonel Jim Priest (also

8 The HCSC RLC Cohort in Israel

late RLC) shortly before he promotes and goes to be the DA in Germany.

Colonel Colin Munce will remain in Shrivenham as the Course Director of HCSC, an extremely prestigious and influential tri-service appointment.

Colonels Craig Hanson and Owen Bunkle will promote immediately upon the end of the course and take up new appointments as ACOS Log in Field Army HQ in Andover and Head Logistic Ops and Plans within the MoD respectively. Brigadier Tim Crossland will take command at 102 Log Bde (soon to be the renamed Op Sustainment Bde).

The emblem of HCSC is the kingfisher. This is based on the famous T.E. Lawrence quote: “Nine-tenths of tactics are certain, and taught in books: but the irrational tenth is like the kingfisher flashing across the pool, and that is the test of generals.” Let us hope this crop of HCSC graduates can have the occasional flash of inspiration rather than anything too irrational!

We take great pleasure in announcing that Brigadier Anna Luedicke OBE has been appointed a Colonel Commandant of The Royal Logistic Corps.

Brigadier Anna is currently serving as the Head of the Commissioning and Managing Organisation within Defence Equipment & Support.

Colonels Commandants are responsible for guarding Corps traditions, fostering esprit de corps and representing Corps interests, initiating and fostering civilian territorial connections and regimental alliances as well as advising on regimental matters when consulted.

They are selected by the Master General of Logistics (MGL) from serving or retired officers, normally of at least 1-Star rank.

Appointments require the approval of the Sovereign. The tour of duty is initially for three years but this can be extended on MGL’s recommendation.

Brigadier Anna comments: “I am incredibly honoured by this appointment and look forward to promoting the Corps’ interests and traditions throughout my tenure.”

The MGL adds: “Brig Anna is an exceptional officer with a raft of relevant experience that will bring gravitas and experience to the role. I am delighted that she’s one of our Colonel Commandants.”

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FROM THE RANKS

‘‘

This year’s Founders Day, saw 28 Chelsea Pensioners from the Forming Corps’ on parade.

The drill and turnout was impeccable as always. I encourage you all to go and visit our Pensioners

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So apparently its summer already.

2022 is passing extremely quickly with the Corps continuing to deliver logistic effect around the globe. I continue to be surprised and impressed just how far and widespread our Soldiers are, all doing an amazing job supporting the British Army and Defence.

Since my last edition of “From the Ranks” there has been a huge amount to talk about. We had a day dedicated to our people, which saw the British Army down tools and deliver Op TEAMWORK. I personally feel the Corps is at the forefront of understanding and looking after its people, but we should always strive to improve and the message I want you all to take away is:“Treat people how you would like to be treated yourself”.

The Corps’ footprint in Europe has increased, as units support the ongoing NATO effort to provide defensive military support to Ukraine and humanitarian support to its people.This has seen Officers and Soldiers from 1, 7 and 9 Regiments and 104 Theatre Enablement Brigade deployed providing expert Logistical Support on Op INTERLINK. 13 Air Assault Support Regiment deployed on Ex SWIFT RESPONSE a 16 Brigade Combat Team exercise in north Macedonia.

On the sporting front we have seen the return of Corps Boxing. 6 Regiment fought hard to be crowned RLC Boxing Champions of 2022, with 13 Regiment ladies crowned female champions. I must make a special mention to Pte Bladen (13 AASR) who was awarded overall best boxer.

I was also privileged to present the prizes at the Corps tennis competition held in Aldershot. It was refreshing to see novice players learning a new sport.

This year’s Founders Day, saw 28 Chelsea Pensioners from the Forming Corps’ on parade. The drill and turnout was impeccable as always. I encourage you all to go and visit our Pensioners.

The country stopped to celebrate

the Platinum Jubilee, which was a chance for us all to reflect and be proud to serve in the British Army and recognise the service of Her Majesty the Queen as she celebrates 70 years on the throne. Some of our Regiments also have some very important anniversaries on the horizon. 17 Port & Maritime host Falklands 40 celebrating forty years since the Falklands conflict. The Ammunition Technician community look forward to celebrating 100 years of their trade, with an ATO 100 event.

As the UK attempts to recover from the economic strain of the pandemic, RHQ The RLC recognises that the cost of living of is increasing for everyone. There is work going on to look at how we support our people who have fallen on hard times. My big plea to you all is that if you are struggling, please reach out to your CoC and Welfare teams.

I will sign off by plugging the RLC Corps Open Day, taking place in South Cerney on 2 July 22. The day is intended to be a day out for the Corps and a celebration of The RLC. To this end the organisers are keeping uniformed ‘on duty’ participation to a minimum. The event is open to all serving Officers and Soldiers (Regular and Reserve), RLC and Forming Corps veterans; as well as families, friends and the local population.

The event will open at 1200hrs with a festival of sport including a park run, a variety of unit level sporting competitions and it will see the return of the popular Tug of War competition. Military stands will be reduced compared with previous years and will be capability led.

Two Corps run messes will be on site, one for Officers,WOs and Sgts and an OR’s bar (Cpls and Ptes). It really is shaping up to be a great weekend, finishing off with a Party in the Park. Please come along and get involved.

Keep being awesome and making a difference.

WO1 C Sutherland Corps Sergeant Major RLC

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#BritishArmyLogistics

The Corps Pace stick competition was held at St Omar Barracks, Aldershot, on Tuesday 24 May 2022. It was second time it has been held since the event was launched 2019, the 2020 and 2021 competitions being cancelled due to the pandemic.The event was open to all RLC serving personnel; Pte to WO2.

History of the Pace Stick The Royal Artillery claim to have introduce the Pace Stick into the British Army during the Crimean War in 1852, as way of measuring precise distances between guns. The design of the stick was very straight forward replicating a walking stick with a silver or ivory knob at its end.

The infantry further developed the stick into drill and (the late John Lord MVO MBE) started holding annual pace stick competitions at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst where the world pace stick competition, now takes place.

This year’s event had an attendance of seven teams from across the Corps. Each team consists of four members comprised as follows: the driver who delivers the words of command and three team members. Over the course, the teams march down in slow time and quick time whilst alternating the stick between the left and right hands. The teams are marked on uniformity and overall high standard throughout the sequence by three Judges.

ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

Royal Logistic Corps Pace Stick Competition 2022

The challenging and highly competitive competition is designed for teams to demonstrate a high standard of personal drill and their skills at pace sticking.Teams were officiated by three Judges, President of the board Capt RT Falls, WO1 (RSM) M Hickey and WO2 P Gordon (Royal Regt of Scotland).The event was organised

by SSgt Rowlett and the prizes were made, donated and sponsored

by Military Masterpieces Ltd. Prizes were presented by Col RG Hallett OBE.

8 The teams must demonstrate a high standard of drill

The following prizes were awarded to: Overall Winners: 1 Regt RLC. Runners-up: 27 Regt RLC. Best Sticker: Cpl M Boucher 1 Regt RLC Best Driver: WO2 (SSM) A Wardle 1 Regt RLC. 8 Below: left to right - Col Hallett with the 1 Regt team; The best sticker award was won by Cpl Boucher 1 Regt; WO2 Wardle is awarded Best Driver by the Corps SM

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THE SUSTAINER | OP WINDFIRM Op WINDFIRM, the operation which sought to decontaminate over 7,000 military vehicles and assets from Asbestos, has successfully come to a close.

Playing a key role in the operation were RLC Driver Vehicle Support Specialists who worked tirelessly to ensure all vehicles were moved, decontaminated and received at new locations safely and in-line with current regulations.

Service Personnel worked with a range of vehicles including the Challenger 2 MBT, Warrior, Mastiff, Jackal and MAN SVs. To mark the operation’s success and to recognise the achievements of those involved, Conductor’s Coins were presented to personnel for their individual efforts.

WO1 (Cdr) Davies presented a Conductor’s Coin to Cpl Darren Hope of 9 Regiment RLC for his outstanding performance throughout Op WINDFIRM and support to SEF(UK). Cpl Hope is in an extended term of an expansive military career and although assigned to 9 Regt RLC, he sits in a Pid within SEF (UK).

This role really took shape on the build up to and throughout Op WINDFIRM, when Ashchurch vehicle depot closed due to the Asbestos issue surrounding its infrastructure.

As his Conductor’s Coin citation states: “Cpl Hope was the service person we never knew we needed; even after the planning phase of the project, which resulted in the additional workforce, Cpl Hope continued to be pivotal. His expansive knowledge and experience as a Vehicle Support Specialist was undoubtably

#BritishArmyLogistics

VSS support to Operation WINDFIRM

essential during the time of the site closure, enabling AHQ to have some access to its Stored Operational Fleet during the setup of, and throughout, Op WINDFIRM.Cpl Hope is forward leaning in his approach; he needs no guidance in planning and executing tasks given to him and his calm and intelligent approach to dealing with civilian agencies has created a great working relationship amongst the combined workforce.”

Cpl Nicholas Thompson of 165 P&M Regiment RLC was also awarded a Conductor’s Coin for his outstanding performance throughout his time with the Land Equipment Optimisation Team

8 Cpl Hope being presented with his Conductor's Coin

(LEOT) and on Op WINDFIRM. Cpl Thompson is in a full-time reserve service assignment to the LEOT in a role which sees him carrying out various duties surrounding the disposal of equipment either via civilian auction or government to government sales.

He also played a fundamental role in the success of Op WINDFIRM; using the knowledge and experience gained over 20 years served as a reservist, he seamlessly switched between LEOT and Op WINDFIRM tasks, making him an extremely valuable asset.

WO2 (SQMS) Perrett, another Vehicle Support Specialist involved in the operation, was also recently presented with his Royal Warrant

by Maj Gen D Crook, Director Land Equipment. Maj Gen Crook commented: “The British Army is built on the strength and experience of its SNCOs and Warrant Officers.

It was a genuine privilege to be asked to present Mr Perrett with his wholly earned “Warrant” – it marks the effort and commitment of a long journey of service.”

8 Cpl Thompson received a Conductor's Coin for Op WINDFIRM

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#BritishArmyLogistics WO1 (Cdr) Ed Clinton the Senior Ammunition Technician was invited to be a voting member at a recent Regimental Selection Board held at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He was refreshed and encouraged by the experience.

“It is perhaps easy to fall into the preconception that the regimental selection process for young Officer Cadets, is carried out in smoke filled rooms, whiskey tumblers in hand; and without a vague lineage to royalty dating back to 1703, you would not be considered fit to wear the uniform of your chosen Regiment or Corps, let alone grace the steps of Old College. While this may still be the case for some capbadges, for The Royal Logistic Corps it could not be further from the truth.

“The selection process Officer Cadets undergo to join Corps or Regiments on commissioning happens during the second term at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and can be one of the most stressful elements of the yearlong commissioning course.

The candidates select up to two capbadges to apply for and the mainstay of the process is an interview with senior members of the regiment or corps.

“The RLC panel on the occasion I joined it, consisted of: The Col RLC – Col Allen ADC, the head of DSCOM - Brig Chesnutt CBE, CO 3 Regt – Lt Col Wincott and for the first time, a Senior Soldier was present as a voting board member.

I was hugely humbled to be invited to step in on behalf of the Corps SM. With a panel assembled, the wider staff at RHQ the RLC had crafted a clinical rubric designed to ensure fairness and parity across the board. This rubric guaranteed the panel focussed on four key areas: leadership potential, cognitive ability, corps suitability and bearing and credibility. The areas were well quantified allowing for accurate scoring throughout, with a standard APC two-point differential applied if board members were out; although this rarely happened.

“Having now fully understood the process, 47 candidates had been lined up to be interviewed for 27 available slots, across an intense

ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

RLC Officer selection… behind the smoke

three days. A point of note, that resonated prior to the interviews, was an instruction from The Col RLC. This instruction ensured that all the board members made the candidate feel comfortable and they left with an awareness that The RLC “is a family”. A clear tone to set at this early stage. Now at this point, a little apprehensive, the

interviews began. The variety of backgrounds, experience and ability was evident. From hiking Kilimanjaro, being an elite level boxer, with a personal favourite aspiration of mine being “seeing how fast I can drive my Fiat 500 down the autobahn”; the potential RLC Officers encapsulated different elements of the Corps’ values.

Whilst all candidates were clearly of a good quality, the ones selected for the Corps really were exceptional and without doubt have fantastic careers ahead of them. Even if they choose not to become ATOs..!

“A final point to note, having now successfully applied the new rubric to the Regimental Selection Board process, wider corps and regiments have acknowledged the RLC’s current process as best practice and have subsequently adopted it. For what it is worth, having a soldier’s voice supporting the selection process for the Corps’ future leaders can only be a good thing. The process is fair, objective, measurable and clearly a far cry away from any misconceptions soldiers may have about nepotism at the upper echelons.

The future is bright.”

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC ATHLETICS

#BritishArmyLogistics

The 2022 Royal Logistic Corps Athletics Championships The RLC inter major and minor units athletics championships took place at Tilsley Park, Abingdon on Tuesday 24 May 2022. Teams from across the Corps competed in a range of track and field events, with Abingdon Station being crowned Major Unit Champions and its female team placing first in the women’s competition. The headline results were: Major Units: 1st - Abingdon Station (152 pts) 2nd - 17 Port & Maritime Regt RLC (125 pts) Minor Units: 1st - Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) (81 pts) 2nd - 6 Bn REME (61 pts) Female: 1st - Abingdon Station (139 pts) 2nd - 27 Regt RLC (122 pts) A set of full results can be found on the RLC Athletics page on Defence Connect.

Photography by Cpl Barry McKenzie

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RLC ATHLETICS | THE SUSTAINER

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THE SUSTAINER | CAREER MANAGEMENT

#BritishArmyLogistics

YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL Career management team

RLC SOLDIERS SO1: Lt Col Bratcher SO2: Maj McHugh SO3: Capt Jack WO1: WO1 Neilson QOGLR: SSgt Subba In this iteration of Your Career, your Call, the RLC Soldiers team at the Army Personnel Centre in Glasgow would like to give readers the opportunity to get to know them.

Lt Col S Bratcher MC – SO1 RLC Soldiers Hi I am Lt Col Simon Bratcher. I was commissioned into The RLC in 2000 and qualified as an ATO in 2004.

Outside of work I enjoy outdoor sports, have just taken up archery and spend a lot of time walking with my dogs.

Units served in: 6 Supply Regt (Tp Comd and RSO), 11 EOD Regt (Tp Comd, SO3 and OC), OPTAG, 51 (Scottish) Bde, Defence Intelligence, DEMS Trg Regt, SJFHQ and APC. I have completed three tours of Iraq, one of Afghanistan and I spent a year in Kuwait.

Within the Army Personnel Centre I am responsible for supervision of all aspects of the RLC Soldier Wing, attendance on all Soldier Wing Promotion and Assignment Boards (less Pte – LCpl).

Maj L Polson – SO2 RLC Soldier Hello, I’m Maj Liz Polson. I was commissioned into The RLC in April 2007. Outside of work I compete in CrossFit and am an avid backcountry skier, spending much of the winter in the Alps.

Units served in: 17 P&M Regt – Port Op Tp Comd (Op TELIC 10, HERRICK 10), DTUS Birmingham – Instructor, 29 Regt – Sqn 2IC, OIC PC Sqn (Op HERRICK 20), Army HQ – SO3 PersOps, DCSU – Adjutant, [Career Break], 7 Regt – 12

Plans Officer, Comd Wing – Instructor, ICSC(L).

Within the Army Personnel Centre I am responsible for cross desk policy co-ordination within Soldier Wing, RLC management planning, CSS No.7 Board co-ord, RSM & SSM Appointment Boards.

Capt SM Jack RLC – SO3 RLC Soldier Wing Section 1 Hi I’m Capt Stevie Jack. I joined the Royal Corps Of Transport in 1992 as a Driver. With the formation of The RLC I was afforded the opportunity to transfer to the Ammunition Technician trade in 2002. Outside of work I am motorbike daft and enjoy short breaks around Scotland wild camping.

Units served in: 10 Tpt Regt RCT Dvr – LCpl, 39 Inf Bd NI GOC’s Rover Gp, 27 Regt RLC, 11 EOD Regt RLC LCpl – Cpl (Dvr), Army School Of Ammunition AT Cl2 2003 transferred, 921 EOD Sqn, 521 EOD Sqn Sgt – SSgt, DEMS Trg Regt A Team SSgt – WO2, 11 EOD&S Regt WO2 -WO1, DEMS Trg Regt, MUNS Trg Sqn SAT – Commission and my previous post to the APC was 521 EOD Sqn 2IC. Within the Army Personnel Centre I am responsible for supervision and career management of the Ammunition Technician Trade from WO1 – LCpl; management of Ammunition Technician and Ammunition Technical Officers OCE manning.

WO1 Neilson RLC APC CSS 2IC of RLC Soldier Wing Section 1 Hello, I’m WO1 Neilson. I Joined The RLC in 1999 as a Driver Tank Transporter Operator.

Outside of work I enjoy family time, deer stalking, fishing and walking with my dog.

Units served in: 8 Regt RLC, 3 Tank Transporter Squadron as a Pte to LCpl, Army Training Centre

Pirbright as a LCpl – Cpl, Trg Section Commander, Army Training Centre Bassingbourn as a Sgt Trg Platoon Sgt, 27 Regt, 19 Tank Transporter Squadron as a training and admin Sgt, 7 Regt 16 Tank Transporter Squadron as a Troop SSgt and SQMS, 7 Regt 16 Tank Transporter Squadron as a Warrant Officer Class 2 SSM, 154 Regt 221 Squadron as a Senior Permanent Staff Instructor WO2, Defence School of Transport as a Warrant Officer Class 1 RSM and finally Army Personnel Centre Glasgow.

Within the Army Personnel Centre I manage the following appointments: The Corps of Drums; Recruiting Appointments – Ranks Pte – SSgt; Training Appointments Basic & ITT – Ranks LCpl – SSgt; Senior Permanent Staff Instructor – Rank SSgt; Squadron Sergeant Major appointments; Regimental Sergeant Major appointments.

Responsibilities: 2IC of RLC Soldier Wing Section 1; assist in the Career Management of section 1 trades and appointments; maintenance of key appointments within Training and Recruitment Establishments; co-ordination and promulgation of VEng Fll and VEng Long boards; loading of RLC Personnel on JSWOC and RMAS Instructor Courses.

SSgt Subba GSPS – CM QOGLR Soldier Wing Section 1 Hi I’m SSgt Subba. I joined the GSPS as a RGR Clerk in 2006 before the formation of GSPS in 2011. Outside work I enjoy skiing, hiking and travelling.

Units Served: 2 RGR as a Despatch Clerk in Bn HQ as a Pte, 36 Engr Regt as a Junior Sqn HR within 70 and 69 Gurkha Field Sqn as a LCpl, 36 Engr Regt as a Senior HR Admin within 20 Field Sqn as a Sgt, 30 Sig Regt as a Staff Support Assistance (SSA) as a Sgt. Within the Army Personnel Centre I am responsible for the following: supervision and career

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Carolyn Irwin

Catherine Brown

Charmaine Johnston

Tracy Bryceland

CAREER MANAGEMENT | THE SUSTAINER

management of Pte to WO2 Gurkha Soldiers within 10 Queen's Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (10 QOGLR) including Gurkha Chefs within the Brigade of Gurkhas.

Implementation of Army Workforce Levers The purpose of rescinding ABN038/2021. ABN038/2021 was issued in Apr 21 when there was significant uncertainty about the future Army structure and a requirement to reduce the size of the workforce to 73,000 by 2025.

Following the publication of Future Soldier, and subsequent analysis and workforce planning, it is now considered appropriate to rescind ABN038/2021.

Key Points to note: It is normal business for workforce levers to be used in workforce planning to ensure that the Army has the right number of Service Personnel, at the correct ranks and with the required skills, to undertake its operational tasks. Decisions on Reserve to Regular Transfers, Early Release, Notice to Terminate and Premature Voluntary Release withdrawals, and extensions in service will return to business as usual.

The Royal Logistic Corps Association and Forming Corps Associations Membership If you are keen to enhance your network, join a group of like-minded professionals who share a common purpose, or just catch-up with lost friends and acquaintances, why not join The RLC Association or one of The RLC’s Forming Corps Associations? If interested, please contact the Veterans, Families and Civil Engagement Officer (VFCEO) - Victoria Parkes at: Email - VFCEO@rhqtherlc.org.uk Telephone - 01962 887785 Alternatively, you can download the Membership Registration Form from the RLC website. https://www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk/who-we-are/the-rlc-association/

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THE SUSTAINER | EXERCISE Now in its 22nd year, Ex JOINT CATERER is a Tri-Service event that allows chefs from the Armed Services to compete in a wide range of culinary classes, with the focus being on operational catering. The 2022 iteration took place at the National Exhibition Centre as part of the Public Services Catering Expo on 15 and 16 Mar 22. The aim of the exercise is to both challenge personnel and to demonstrate the ways in which military caterers can support operational commanders, thus contributing to the moral component of fighting power.

Mobilising the fierce rivalry that exists between the three Services, Ex JOINT CATERER provides a unique opportunity for the Royal Navy; the British Army and the Royal Air Force to participate in a competition that further develops their chef’s culinary skills, nurtures pride in professional achievement and builds team spirit, all for the ultimate benefit of the Armed Forces as a whole.

The Army team manager, WO2 Pete Moffat (1WG RCWO) says: “I was very proud as the team manager to watch all the team grow and pull out the results they did over the two days of competition. It is great to see the young (and old) enjoying the profession we all signed up for.”

The results are as follows.

Where it reads best in class next to team member’s name, they are the Inter-Services Champion for 2022 in that event: Junior Chef of the Year Pte Megan Sands MAB7 – Gold Medal Pte Hannah Clarke 1 Royal Irish – Bronze Medal Senior Chef of the Year LCpl Jaden Dunn 1 Royal Anglian – Silver Medal Sgt Ben-Moussa 16 AABCT – Bronze Medal Junior Plated Chicken Pte Nayan Gurung 22 Signal Regt – Gold Medal (Best in Class) Open Feathered Game Cpl Viet Phan 1 REME – Gold Medal (Best in Class) 14

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Ex JOINT CATERER

Open Plated Lamb Pte Theo Carr 3 Rifles – Silver Medal Open Plated Fish Cpl Paul Bennion 167 Regt RLC – Bronze Medal Open Plated Pasta Cpl Jayandra Pun 7 Bn REME – Bronze Medal Open Plated Vegan LCpl Steven Stewart 167 Regt RLC – Gold Medal (Best in Class) Open Street Food LCpl Brett Silk 1 Mercian – Certificate of Merit Open Hot Dessert LCpl David Wood 36 Engr Regt – Silver Medal (Best in Class) World Class Food Cpl Malvern Mafemera JSSO Cyprus – Silver Medal Open Pie Challenge Cpl Stephen Cormack 3 Rifles – Certificate of Merit Open Services Junior Cook and Serve team Pte Megan Sands MAB 7 (Head Chef), Pte Theo Carr 3 Rifles (Commis Chef), Pte Nayan Gurung 22 Signal Regiment (Front of House) – Bronze Medal

Open Services Open Cook and Serve team LCpl Brett Silk 1 Mercian (Head Chef), LSgt Giri Pun 1 Welsh Guards (Commis Chef), WO2 Steph Blake Coldstream Guards (Front of House) – Bronze Medal.

WO2 Steph Blake was awarded a Silver Medal Best in Class for Front of House.

Open Field Challenge Cpl Ram Pun, LCpl Sachin Limbu and Pte Santa Sherma QOGLR – Silver Medal Open Celebration Cake Cpl Bertrand Edwards 36 Engr Regt – Bronze Medal Open Centre Piece LCpl Sachin Limbu QOGLR – Gold Medal (Best in Class) LCpl Prakash Gurung QOGLR – Gold Medal WO2 Shahin Logmani 36 Engr Regt – Silver Medal Cpl Krishan Pun QOGLR – Silver Medal Sgt Deoman Limbu 36 Engr Regt – Bronze Medal Cpl Shakti Pun 36 Engr Regt – Bronze Medal LCpl Nichaell Lebang 36 Engr Regt – Certificate of Merit LCpl Prabin Magar36 Engr Regt – Certificate of Merit

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS

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Defence School of Logistics and Administration Commandant Gp Capt L Griffin RAF Having stood up one year ago, the Defence School of Logistics and Administration (DSLA) reached its first anniversary following formation in April 2021 and reached a key milestone on 31 Mar 22 as the School declared Interim Operating Model.

This is a key achievement on the journey to reaching Full Operating Capability by the end of training year 2024/25.

This final structural change has seen an expansion of the DSLA workforce and capability with the creation of a new wing in the School (Training Support) which has moved staff from Headquarters DCLPA into the School to support training design, training validation, technology enhanced learning and staff development.

The DSLA hosted its first whole School Honours and Awards ceremony on 5 Apr 22 with Commandant DCLPA as the senior guest. Staff from across the School were recognised for their outstanding contributions and the following members of The RLC received awards:

2nd clasp to Long Service and Good Conduct Medal • Major Fulford Long Service and Good Conduct Medal • Staff Sergeant Calloway • Staff Sergeant Jallow • Corporal Bettridge Chief of the General Staff Commendation • Warrant Officer Class 1 Langman • Sergeant Mitchelmore

8 Sgt Vikki Mitchelmore

8 SSgt Gibril Jallow

8 WO2 Patrick Osei-Konadu

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8 Planning is underway to host Brigadier General Nannt in the near future

The School has now received nominations for the Instructor of the Year Awards where three awards will be made at the DSLA Anniversary Dinner Night. Awards will be made for the Best Newcomer Instructor, Most Outstanding Support and Instructor of the Year.The School is looking forward to hosting Director Joint Support, Major General Hutchings, as the senior guest, together with senior representatives from across the wider logistics and administration community.This is an exciting opportunity to recognise outstanding commitment and emerging talent.

The DSLA has been busy re-establishing its relationships with international partners and during the last month, Commandant DSLA and members of Command Wing accompanied Commandant DCLPA on visits to Les Ecoles Militaires de Bourges and Logistikschule Der Bundeswehr.

Both visits have re-established ties with and reinvigorated working relationships between key College personalities whilst demonstrating our intent for greater partnership in

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8 Outside Logistikschule Der Bundeswehr

the future.The recent visit to Logistikschule Der Bundeswehr will be reciprocated in June and planning is already underway to host Brigadier General Nannt and his team to aide our approach to Force Optimisation and to advance our training as we operate agenda, alongside sharing best practice insights into building our approach to becoming a Centre of Excellence.

Command Wing – Chief Instructor Lt Col Andy Moss OBE RLC A high tempo of courses and initiatives continues in Command Wing and in Fd Log 1. As part of the RLC Troop Commanders’ Course 88, 36 personnel including former Commandant of the Defence School of Logistics, Col Atkins with Lt Col Gareth Davis providing academic support, deployed to the Netherlands for Exercise TIMBER ARNHEM under the leadership of Capt Jade Kavanagh-Barnes.

The exercise was a conceptual development event during which students studied the planning and execution of Operation MARKET GARDEN.The exercise deepened the students’ understanding of combined arms operations and the planning and execution of operations at the operational and tactical level, with an emphasis on sustainment.The students were successfully tested by way of formal summative assessments of their presentations which ranged in scope to also include moral issues and the value of ethos and self-sacrifice.

Prior to this, the Flagship TIMBER TRUSS exercise (Ex TT) had to be rapidly amended when the Ukraine crisis unfolded; the vehicles aligned to it were no longer available due to readiness requirements and so Exercise ‘TIMBER VIRTUAL TRUSS’ took place over three days at the

8 Sgt Tamang of Command Wing joined Fd Log 1 on Ex TIMBER ARNHEM and provided a captivating vignette

TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER Simulation Centre,Warminster. During this exercise, the student Troop Commanders were given severely restricted planning timelines and were challenged with orders delivery before executing their missions virtually.The training facilities were excellent and we were able to ‘train to failure’ due to enemy actions – something not possible on Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA) which created a new dynamic to training. Nothing quite can replace the real Ex TT though, and so we look forward to hosting this now departed course back on the next course to train on SPTA and fully complete their training objectives.

The Captains’ Course continues to be delivered in Fd Log 2, as do preparations for the Defence Logistic Contract Management Course (DLCMC). Capt Tom Frost prepares to join Maj Tom Wallis from Fd Log 1 on a Short-Term Training Team deployment to support the Nigerian Army College of Logistics.

Fd Log 3 invested the time it had available between its courses in cultivating its international partnerships as COVID restrictions eased.This involved two visits to the Defence School of Logistics and Administration’s sister school in Bourges, called the Ecole du Train et de la Logistique Opérationnelle.The aim was to enhance UK and French interoperability by exchanging instructors and sharing experience.We probably have much to learn from the French experience in Mali and the Sahel.

8 Maj Theodorakakis, Capt Hobson and Maj Mortimore at the British Embassy, Budapest, with Mr Richard Shackleton, Deputy Head of Mission

Though little investment was needed in Command Wing’s relationship with the Hungarian National University of Public Service, which has hosted the Joint Logistic Operations Course (JLOC) for several years, it was still useful to meet with key personnel in the British Embassy, Budapest.This was Maj Mortimore’s (OC 85 Sqn Herring VC) idea as the recce to Budapest was also used as an early handover/takeover for Maj Mortimore, who will be taking the lead for the JLOC in late September. Maj Mark Player will then take the helm as the actual SI Fd Log 3 upon his return from Op CABRIT in October.

On top of running their usual plethora of high-quality Army Leadership and Development Programme courses in a similar vein to that of the AGC Sqn within Command Wing, 85 Sqn organised and ran a successful Military Skills Competition in Worthy Down Camp.Twenty teams from across Worthy Down competed in the Herring’s Challenge Military Skills Competition on 23 Mar 22 which was superbly organised by SSgt Ben Calloway of 85 Herring VC Sqn.The competition was established to commemorate 2Lt Herring’s actions on 23/24 March 1918 at Montagne

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS Bridge, France and is now set to be an annual event for Worthy Down station.The four-person teams each competed in a 5km loaded march in Combat Equipment Fighting Order before having their shooting skills tested on the Dismounted Close Combat Trainer and completing military knowledge tests.The Worthy Down Support Branch (gym staff) were crowned overall champions. Of note for The RLC,Tp Comds’ Course 88 achieved first place on the loaded march (which included completion of a Command Task) with an impressive time of just over 30 minutes.The hot weather during the day added to the challenge and all teams are congratulated for their excellent efforts.

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Logistic Specialist Training Wing CO Wg Cdr Samantha Alexander RAF

Finally, from Field Log 1, congratulations go to 2Lt Francesa Waters on achieving Top Student on TCC 88.

Movement Controller Class 1 and 3 Battle Craft Syllabus Phase by SSgt J Hardman, Army Delivery DMTS Defence Movements Training Squadron (DMTS) recently provided Movement Controller Class 1 and 3 training to Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) personnel at RAF Brize Norton.

This included the culmination of training in the Battle Craft Syllabus (BCS) element which included the collective deployment of all students to Caerwent Training Area supported by DMTS staff.

Upon arrival, students were required to set up their locations (technical and domestic accommodation) in austere field conditions and run a 24-hour ops room for up to one week.Throughout the deployment, they were required to operate as a Movements Detachment in support of operations under the command of a Brigade Movements Warrant Officer.

Both courses are specifically designed to progress through movements activities pre-deployment leading into the field phase.Training prior to deployment is facilitated through classroom lessons, site visits and virtual reality methods. Class 3 training provides an introduction baseline package to The RLC whilst the Class 1 course focusses on trade-specific responsibilities such as Movements Control Check Point Reconnaissance, risk assessments for a multi-modal environment and Call Forward Instructions.

Both courses are aligned to run concurrently in order to facilitate training benefit for both Class 1 and 3 students.

Class 1 students are given the opportunity to manage subordinates in the field whilst giving Class 3 students the opportunity to put all theory-based learning to the test in practical situations prior to arrival at 29 Regiment RLC, their first Field Army unit.

Importantly, the BCS element of Movement Controller training ensures logistic personnel are trained as they operate. During the exercise, students are trained and assessed in physically and mentally challenging conditions in order to prepare them for future operations. All tasks are completed while reacting to an ever-changing operational environment, resulting in the trainees having to adapt to the threats of CBRN, cyber attacks, IDF, CPERS, dismounted enemy and GPS-denied environments.

Both courses exploit the opportunities the field environment provides and are enjoyed by both staff and student alike with one student recently commenting:“The course built our confidence and was challenging but enjoyable.”

8 2Lt Francesca Waters receiving her top student prize from CI Lt Col Moss

8 The Mov Con BCS Phase provides an opportunity to put all theory-based learning to the test in practical situations

8 The winning team with OC 85 Sqn, SSgt Calloway and CO Worthy Down Support Branch, Lt Col Stuart Allen

85 Sqn are also in the final planning stages of executing the first distributed overseas ALDP package to a British Army unit. In Jun, the Sqn will be deploying to Gibraltar to deliver a JNCO and SNCO course to over 30 members of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment. If successful, then the Sqn will likely be called upon in the future to deliver packages to units based in major overseas garrisons such as Cyprus, Canada and Kenya.

8 Members of 85 Sqn in Gibraltar conducting a recce of the training estates

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Supply Training Wing (STW) - Chief Instructor Lt Col Devendra Ale MVO MBE QOGLR STW has had a very successful quarter; as well as the day-to-day training delivery, it has been focussing on improvements to the realistic working environments workforce health and wellbeing and teamwork projects.

The Army Realistic Working Environment, used mainly by the RLC Log Spec (Supply) and Mil Engr Log Specs received an upgrade and two Transport Containers (OPOs) and a Transport Containers (Stores) have been delivered which will ensure the trainees are taught and tested in equipment and environments conducive with unit exercises and operations. Additional bulk stock is expected to be delivered, this is to increase the types of commodities and vary the transporting solutions required to ‘Pick and Pack’ for their customers.

Not to be outshone, the RAF Div have also improved their realistic working environment, utilising a clearer layout and negotiating additional IT which has enhanced their trainee experience and increased first-time pass rates.

STW has entered teams into two physical competitive events, the Army Half Marathon 2022 in Fleet and the Command Wing organised ‘Herring’s Challenge’, a military skills event packed with physical and intellectual tasks. On both occasions, each team had a mix of gender, cap badge (RLC, RE, RAF) and Service (Army & RAF), with each teams producing a credible performance and further strengthening the joint floor plate bonds. Notably, two PBs in the half marathon, Sgt Gurung RE 1hr 34mins and Cpl Adam RAF 1hr 38mins.To their credit, the Herring’s Challenge team placed sixth out of 17 teams and were the highest placed mixed gender team.

Separately, Sgt Nat Pavlou was selected and has attended several training sessions for the Army Clay Shooting Female Development Squad - she will definitely be one to watch out for in the future.

From the RN Div,WO1 David May, in his role as the Lead Training Officer for the RN Supply Training Wing, welcomed a new class of Phase 2 students to the College in February and amongst them was his daughter AB2 Danielle May. Danielle passed out from HMS Raleigh on 18 Feb 22 and started her Phase 2 training at Worthy Down on 28 Feb 22.

On completion of her 8-week Phase 2 course here at DCLPA, she will be assigned to RNAS Yeovilton, exactly the same place as her dad 38 years ago.

Finally, Lt Col Ale was invited to the Nepali Embassy in London on the 8 Mar 22 to celebrate the occasion of Nepal Army Day.The event was attended by the Ambassador of Nepal to the UK, His excellency Mr Gyan Chandra Acharya,

8 Visit to the Nepali Embassy

TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER

8 WO1 May with his daughter AB2 Danielle May

8 Competing at the Fleet Half Marathon

Lt Gen Richard Warlaw OBE (CDLS) in his capacity as the Colonel Commandant the Brigade of Gurkhas, and dignitaries representing numerous other nations.

Food Services Training Wing – CO Commander Tom Shave RN FSTW Inaugural Training onboard HMS Prince of Wales Training as they fight, RN Catering Services Class 21.03 enhanced their Realistic Working Environment experience, embarking on HMS Prince of Wales in her home port of Portsmouth.This inaugural ‘field training’ gave students the auspicious opportunity to experience the sights, smells and sounds of an operational warship for the first time.

The Royal Navy’s largest warship became home for the students for four days as they undertook catering duties within the largest of five onboard galleys, preparing, cooking and serving meals for some 400+ personnel. Additionally, they were exposed to catering storeroom and accountancy procedures, retrieving and issuing daily stores to the galley, as well as gaining an insight into their crucial shipborne roles of firefighting and damage control. In awe of the sheer scale of the 65,000-tonne ship, students were also engaged in a timely ‘store-ship’ of fresh, frozen, and ambient provisions to support a forthcoming period at sea, illustrating the importance of maintaining endurance to support operational capability.

A unique and invaluable insight into Defence Engagement training, the students were also afforded the opportunity to work alongside the Ship’s Company and assist in the craft production and front of house service for an eight-course charity meal hosted by the Commanding Officer in the impressive Flag Dining Room. All students commented that this had been a demanding yet equally rewarding experience and one of huge benefit as they prepare to join their new sea-going units in the trained strength.

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THE SUSTAINER | UK/US INTEROPERABILITY After two years of delay, and a great deal of planning, the British delegation for the Anglo-American Sustainment Symposium assembled early in the morning to meet our US Army counterparts in Fort Lee, Virginia USA for a day of detailed desk-level logistic interaction and discussions on how the British and United States Armies can deliver synergyi in the field of logistics.

Key delegates at this symposium were Col Joe Colacicco (Chief G3 at the US Combined Arms Sustainment Command (CASCOM)), Lt Col Suzie Cox (SO1 Logistic Operations Support at HQ Field Army, Logistic Operations Branch) and Lt Col Stu Vernon (CASCOM LO from The British Defence Staff, USA). All three individuals were instrumental in the meticulous preparation for this symposium, corralled by the ever-diligent Major Jeff Seitz CASCOM’s Chief FuOps. Major Seitz is the Chief of Future Operations for the United States Army’s Combined Arms Support Command and holds responsibility for US-UK interoperability.

Deconfliction and compatibility in the logistic sphere had been achieved; indeed, integration was going well. However, the burning question posed to the British Army by their Chief of Defence Logistics and Support (CDLS), was how we, as logisticians, might deliver a more powerful Support Advantage? Both the USA and UK saw interoperability as being key to answering this question. When operating with allies, challenges arise and compromises made, but for the purpose of this symposium, Col Colacicco, and Lt Cols Cox and Vernon, were seeking to maximise the potential benefits, and not just to find workable solutions.

The trio had chaired a series of remote working groups prior to the symposium, which ensured the UK and US were aligned before the syndicate work began in earnest.

Log C4I, Petroleum and Ammunition had been discussed, and Log Planning had even made an appearance. Indeed, this highly productive pre-work had set the scene for in person talks perfectly.

With people associating voices to faces over coffee, the mood was 20

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UK – US Sustainment Interoperability drives forward

By Major Adam Wise, SO2 Plans Logistic Operations Branch HQ Field Army, ACOS Logistics Pillar. Maj Wise holds responsibility for developing HQ Field Army’s logistic interoperability with its allies

positive and purposeful.

Maj Gen Mark Simerly (Commanding General CASCOM) warmly welcomed the British delegates to The Sustainment Centre of Excellence in Fort Lee, saying that he wished he could take all of us to the site of the battle of Petersburg, just down the road as it was a famous British Victory in the Revolutionary War, and last resting place of Major General William Phillips, the most senior British officer to be buried on foreign soilii.

His words were clearly aimed at putting the visiting team at ease and delivered his intent perfectly.

Maj Gen Simerly had been very enthusiastic to open the symposium and take part in the initial discussions. In his energetic opening address reiterated the importance of our bi-lateral alliance and emphasised its utility as a force multiplier in future conflicts. He saw the collective sustainment of UK and US forces as being crucial to any victory within Europe as the UK

8 Col Joe Colacicco head of CASCOM G3 and Lt Col Suzi Cox SO1 Log Ops Sp HQ Field Army headed up their respective delegations

would provide not only one of the three war fighting divisions (3 UK Div) within the US 5th Corps, but also a Theatre Sustainment Brigade into the 21st TSC (104 Th Sust Bde).

It was through this partnership that the UK and USA would employ “the advantage that wins in the contested logistic environment”iii.

Day one of the Sustainment Symposium saw the UK delegates hosted by the principal Corps Headquartered in Fort Lee, CASCOM and the Army Logistic University (ALU), where the Dean, the Commanding Officer and the Command Sgt Maj explained their concept of education. The briefs were all enriching and absorbing and the ALU is an absolute must for further DCLPA engagement.

The USMC QM’s School detachment briefed they had

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#BritishArmyLogistics removed all mess tins (confusingly called mess kit) from their inventory.

(As a Brit, I personally found this astounding due to the inability to independently “brew up”). We were all relieved to hear that the reintroduction was being trialled.

Further, their basic Quarter Masters (Supplier) Course included a full lesson set on victualling fish, chickens and even pigs. This innovative and expeditionary approach in embracing small unit procedures on a grand scale merits further study, not to mention the prospect of deployed bacon.

The second day’s briefings saw many of the SME briefers from the previous day return to take part in in-depth discussions. The team ventured off into five distinct working groups, sharing our national understanding of interoperability for the respective specialist areas. The focus then shifted to developing synergies between the two Force Elements.

Concurrently the operational and operational planning SMEs from the UK and US focused their attention to the Interoperability Handbook.

Col Colacicco and Lt Col Cox, aided

by Lt Col Vernon, worked on the strategy for ensuring that the Interoperability Handbook was current and accurate and reflected the substantial changes to both USA and UK Army structures since the note was last attacked in 2017.

Interchangeability, compatibility and standardisation were the key topics for discussion within the ammunition working group. The conference highlighted that both the UK and US use the same laydown for the resupply of ammunition during operations, so working together to reduce our collective logistic tail should in principle be a straightforward process. However, we both have a habit of over-complicating said process. This is both exciting and, the exact result that we were seeking to achieve in these talks. It was agreed that this was the perfect opportunity to simplify our collective footprints in the future and combine them.

The fuel WG examined several concepts of employment for both fuel and water interoperability as well as seeing the US training facility in action (breath takingly

UK/US INTEROPERABILITY | THE SUSTAINER

advanced). A single use fuel concept was explored, and niche fuel discussions revealed that both the USA and the UK were working on similar challenges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Log C4I WG discussed how the 21st TSC is focused on helping to develop the use of LOGFAS, in line with NATO direction, by the deployable Brigade Combat Teams that it would deploy into Europe.

EUCOM views the use of LOGFAS as essential to the integration of the US Army Force Elements onto the possible defence of Europe, we all agreed that we were behind the bell curve in NATO but would work hard to catch up.

Lt Col Vernon had arranged a fabulous opportunity for the UK delegation to understand the cousins better through a guided tour of the Ordnance Corps Training Support Facility. An outstanding collection of military vehicles (inc seriously cool tanks), and weapons from 1776, through the pre-war era, to the modern day, from the three Ordnance Corps historians.

The historians then guided us through a battlefield study of the defence of Petersburg during the American Civil War, its logistical challenges, and the failure of the Union Army to close off the city, meaning that resupply throughout the entire attempted siege was always possible. Our academic hosts were keen to stress that to understand the current state of the USA, one needed to return to the American Civil War, the reconstruction era, and its abrupt

8 The UK Delegation in front of the US Army Combined Arms Support Command (CASCOM)

end, having briefed the 3* Re-Naming Committeeiv just this, on the day of our symposium.

The striking concepts to take away from UK’s attendance at the Anglo-American Sustainment Symposium must be to capitalise and build on the relationships that were forged. The ability to reach consensus and feed off each other’s enthusiasm in a face-to-face setting must never be underestimated. Closer links for junior officers should be encouraged, and future exchanges and visits should be explored.

Much was established and achieved, but more yet can be accomplished in short order by determined and enthusiastic SMEs with a thirst for improving both of our armies.

The British delegation must thank our hosts for the exceptional generosity that was shown over this excellent and highly productive symposium.

Endnotes i The extra energy, power, success ... that is achieved by two or more people, companies or elements working together, instead of on their own. ii He contracted Typhoid Fever at Petersburg, Virginia, dying on May 13, 1781. iii Maj Gen Rodney Fogg, (then CG US CASCOM), Army Sustainment, Apr-Jun 21, p. 10 ivThe Commission on the Naming of Items of the Department of Defence that Commemorate the Confederate States of America or Any Person Who Served Voluntarily with the Confederate States of America. Fort Lee is named after Civil War Confederate General Robert E Lee.

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS

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The Defence School of Transport Our people and ethos The Defence School of Transport caters to a varied training audience which ranges from trainees on initial Driver training, through to 1* Defence Attaché pre deployment training.

Much of the training focusses on practical skills but DST also delivers Defence’s professional MT management training to all levels from JNCOs to MTOs to MDs as well as the CSS CIS skills which underpin logistic capability.With upwards of six thousand trained at Leconfield, with a comparable number supported through distributed training, the school represents a considerable portion of the DCLPA and LWC training engine. By far, the most critical resource to deliver this capability are the people of DST. The people truly represent a Whole Force effort, with Service Personnel from all three Services, civil servants and contractors working together to plan, design, deliver and assure training, provide ITT duty of care, life support and maintenance to the site and training area.The common aim: that trainees graduating from DST at its main site in Leconfield, and our outstations across the UK, gain the professional skills which underpin and deliver military capability with individuals prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

Like most training establishments, DST has had to respond to an everchanging demand in terms of training requirements and numbers of students in recent years. At the same time, resource pressure, pandemic constraints and our responsibility to deliver efficiency have provided a significant challenge to all areas of our workforce.The experience of our Civil Service staff, many of whom have served for a considerable time with DST following successful careers in the military and commercial sectors, has been invaluable and is underpinned and enhanced through the operational experience and currency of our military staff.

Building and maintaining a professional and valued workforce – Delivering Defence output with a Whole Force team presents a leadership challenge at all levels in 22

Commandant: Colonel Chris Henson QGM COS: Lt Col Ben Aumônier RLC GSM: WO1 J Girvan

8 WO1 (Cdr) Mark Underdown

building and sustaining a common ethos and professional team spirit.

Whilst our daily focus lies with enabling the success of students in training, the unity and professionalism of the Permanent Staff team is key to delivery. Over the last year, and as part of a wider transformation effort, DST staff have been working to improve internal communication and empowering management to break down cross service and departmental frictions which have accumulated over successive years of change.To this end, the School has invested in delivering middle management training, enlisting the services of a leadership and management consultant, Andy Harmer, who has delivered workshops to a representative cohort of people from across the School.The workshops focus on communication skills, building trust, building cohesion and leading and managing through change.The workshops, which subsequently dovetailed into the Op TEAMWORK initiative, have led to the establishment of a guiding coalition of change leaders, empowered to lead change within the parameters of the DST vision.

Developing a unified team and shared organisational identity – Since the days of the Army School of Mechanical Transport, Defence Driver training has undergone a variety of organisational changes and rationalisations. Bringing the disparate elements under a unified brand and identity was one of the Commandants first tasks upon assuming command in Sep 19. He identified that DST, quite rightly, should be proud of its reputation of producing quality trained individuals for operations at home and abroad, and that while at the school, trainees receive the best care and instruction with a common goal under the DST brand.The brand, which is increasingly recognisable, cements workforce identity built on a consistent role, geographical location and historical ties. It is intrinsically linked to the DST vision which sees the school leading within the driver training industry, established as a ‘Centre of Excellence’ within Defence, delivering practical driver operator skills and specialist vehicle and transport management training.

There is still a long way to go in terms of DST’s transformation journey; leadership challenges in a large organisation such as DST will always be complex, however the organisation is built on the dedication of good people, and through investment and professionalisation under a single brand and identity, combined with effective communication and leadership, the organisation will be worth more than the sum of its parts.

Conservation – BioBlitz Over the next four years, Leconfield Carrs, in conjunction with the DIO Environmental Team, are inviting local nature groups onto the School’s training estate to help conduct a BioBlitz. A BioBlitz is a survey conducted over an intense period, in our case a weekend, to record the species that live within that area.This year, volunteers will cover weekends in May, July and September. Not only

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TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER

8 The BioBlitz aims to observe species that share DST’s unique training area

to develop students personally and professionally into capable soldiers.

will the BioBlitz give us a better understanding of the species that share our unique training area, but also how we can help them to thrive. It will offer the chance for volunteers to get a taste of what the conservation group has to offer and the brief time frame makes the search more exciting; with volunteers working alongside experts with a real depth of knowledge. Identifying rare and unique species groups will also enable the group to develop a management protection plan while balancing military training with conservation, habitat and landscape.

Exercise SKYWAVE (Ex SW) Earlier in the year, 17 units across Defence participated in Exercise SKYWAVE. The exercise, which is conducted by DST’s Communications Information Systems (CIS) Squadron during the Regimental Signals Instructor course, tests units’ abilities to establish long range communications via High Frequency (HF) means, to various distances, meaning frequency and radiation selection are key to success. It is the role of the course to plan, co-ordinate and execute the exercise.This incorporates Path Profile Analysis to establish the best frequencies to use and produce all the relevant instructions for units to follow.

Impressively, every unit established HF communications with their Control Station. Locations include: Plymouth, Tidworth, Aldershot,Wattisham, Preston, Bicester,York and Cottesmore. Most impressively, Op CABRIT located in Estonia, managed

DCLPA visit On a recent visit, Brigadier Caldicott CBE, Commandant DCLPA, was given an insight into the new continuation training package at 25 Regiment RLC, where he got to experience both practical and theory lessons.The training is a mixture of fieldcraft skills, military theory and lectures, designed

8 Exercise SKYWAVE

to communicate with several units over 1,700 miles away.

This hugely successful exercise enabled both senior and junior members of the Driver Communications Specialist trade to test their knowledge and skills. CIS Sqn are now looking forward to the next Ex SW, taking place in July 2022.

Honours and Awards Congratulations to WO1 (Cdr) Mark Underdown, who has been selected for the prestigious appointment of Conductor. Mark is the Training Officer of DST's Communication Information Systems Squadron and will hold the Conductor title as Head of Trade for Driver Communication Specialists.

8 Gary Openshaw being presented his trophy by Comdt DST

RLC Clay Shooting Competition Congratulations to Gary Openshaw on receiving the ‘Reserve Top Shot’ award at the RLC Clay Shooting Competition.

Gary, a reserve Sgt with 150 Regiment RLC, is also a Civil Service Defence Driving Examiner at DST who runs the Clay Shooting, Archery and Air Rifle club at Normandy Barracks.

8 Brigadier Caldicott CBE, Comdt DCLPA, on his recent visit

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THE SUSTAINER | HEADS OF TRADE

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By WO1 (SSM) MR Foulds

Chef With this being my first article for The Sustainer magazine, I’d like to introduce myself, but before I do, I’d like to say a huge thank you to Capt Olly Rogers. Capt Rogers has left a legacy that is going to be very hard to follow and will be sorely missed as a tradesperson, although I know he will still wear our trade on his sleeve. He has now taken up the post of SO3 Comms in the RHQ The RLC – the very best of luck Sir. I’m WO1 Martin Foulds, the new head of the Chef trade – a role in which I’ve spent pretty much my whole career pursuing. To be head of the trade that made me who I am today is such an honour and I really do have the Chefs’ best interests at heart.

I have a couple of themes that I’d like to concentrate on during my tenure and the first is that I’m people-focussed and will make every effort to try and visit as many in the trade as I possibly can.

The second theme is to lead and support the trade through the changes of the recent Future Soldier Review and to communicate the finer detail of this as soon as I’m able to.

Finally, I’d like to increase the trade’s reputation within The RLC and recognise the great people we have in our trade.

We have had many recent successes within the trade. Firstly, Exercise JOINT CATERER, the highlight of the Inter-Services culinary arts world. To name every category and what each chef achieved would fill up most of this 24

8 Pte Joslyn receiving her Army Intermediate Apprentice of 2022 Award

article so I’ll hone in on the gold medal winners – Pte Megan Sands (Junior Chef of the Year), Pte Nayan Gurung (junior plated chicken), Cpl Viet Phan (open feathered game), LCpl Steven Stewart (open plated vegan), LCpl David Wood (open hot dessert), WO2 Steph Blake (front of house as part of the cook and serve team) and LCpls Sachin Limbu and Prakash Gurung (open centre piece).

On the international front, Sgts Rachel Ainsworth and Grahame Wickham both competed in this year’s joint culinary training exercise in Fort Lee, America and came away winning Best International Team.

We also celebrated Pte Joslyn being crowned the Army

8 Ptes Theo Carr and Megan Sands recently received Army Sergeant Major’s Coins

8 Cpl Viet Phan – Ex JOINT CATERER

Intermediate Apprentice of 2022 having pitted against all apprentices across the British Army, she came out on top. Finally, a huge congratulations to Cpl Marius Mostert who competed in the Armed Forces Caterer of the Year Awards as part of the Public Sector Hospitality Awards in London.

I’ll close by saying farewell to some of our senior WO1 cohort, whom will very soon move across to the Officers’ Mess, paving the way for the next generation of senior Chefs. We wish them all the very best and hope that, although no longer a Chef by trade, they will always keep a close eye on us.

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HEADS OF TRADE | THE SUSTAINER

Driver Communications Specialist

By WO1 (Cdr) M R Underdown A view from under the headset I would firstly like to take this opportunity to thank all Driver Communications Specialists within our outstanding trade for the hard work and dedication you continue to show.

As with many other trades across the Corps, we have seen some great improvement with recruiting and retention. At present, we have a constant stream of re-trades, this is down to Comms Specs advertising the trade well. If you have any fresh ideas for recruiting and retention, I would like to hear them. Please feel free to email me directly at mark.underdown273@mod.gov.uk, regardless of rank.

The Trade Structural Review is now 68% complete with enrichment and de-enrichments happening constantly to meet the new trade structure. Another success for the trade has been the Financial Retention Incentive seeing 10 service personnel being given £7,500 for a three-year RoS. Training and CPD Accreditation has continued evolving for the trade with the full backing of the Corps. As at the time of writing this article, the change is in place for the Class 3 soldiers to now be enrolled in a Driver Apprenticeship and for the Class 1 soldiers to be enrolled on the Level 3 Information Communications Technician Apprenticeship. To date, we have 43 Class 1 soldiers enrolled on the apprenticeship scheme with further opportunities to follow throughout the training year.

One of the many other elements of Continuous Professional Development available has been the highly successful PG Cert in

Wireless Communications delivered by Ubi-Tech through the University of Wolverhampton. I would like to express my congratulations to the 15 Comms Specs who graduated from Wolverhampton University in September 21.

Exercise SKYWAVE On 20 Jan 22, 17 units across Defence participated in Exercise SKYWAVE (ExSW). The exercise, which is conducted by DST’s Communications Information Systems Squadron during the Regimental Signals Instructor (RSI) course, tests units’ abilities to establish long range communications via High Frequency (HF) means, to various distances, meaning frequency and radiation selection are key to success. It is the roles of the RSI course to plan, co-ordinate and execute the exercise, incorporating Path Profile Analysis to establish the best frequencies to use as well as producing all the relevant instructions for units to follow.

8 17 units took part in the successful Ex SKYWAVE

Impressively, every unit established HF communications with their Control Station. Locations included Plymouth, Tidworth, Aldershot, Wattisham, Preston, Bicester, York and Cottersmore.

Most impressively, Op CABRIT located in Estonia managed to communicate with a number of units over a distance of 1,700 Miles.

This highly successful exercise enabled both senior and junior members of the Driver Communications Specialist trade to test their knowledge and skills.

I would like to thank all units that participated and look forward to the next ExSW taking place in July 2022. If you would like to take part, please contact WO2 Gary Adamson – gary.adamson622@mod.gov.uk Look forward In future articles, I will endeavour to keep you all abreast of current issues and developments within the trade.

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THE SUSTAINER | FUNCTIONAL SKILLS You would be forgiven for thinking that 25 Training Regiment RLC’s priority is to teach the soldiers of the Royal Logistic Corps to drive vehicles, understand the theatre logistic lay down and improve on the military skills already taught at their Basic Training establishments. However, there is one more important quality they must gain before they leave and join their respective units; this quality is education!

Pearson Teaching and Qualifications (TQ) is an independent civilian contractor whose aim is to provide functional skills to all apprenticed soldiers.

Functional skills are vital as not only do they enable the soldier to promote within the Army, they have many practical functions relating to the role the soldiers perform. They also have many uses for the soldiers if they do decide to leave the British Army and pursue another career.

These skills range from CV writing and budgeting to form filling and job application letters.

On average fifty percent of the

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Enabling, Teaching and Supporting The RLC’s Soldiers

soldiers on an apprenticeship who arrive at 25 Regt have no GCSEs and no further education. This coupled with the fact that many of the soldiers who are older learners, may not have been in a classroom environment for years. This is where the Pearson TQ team is key to helping narrow the gap.

During the soldier’s induction into 25 Regt, they are given a Learning Assessment by the team. This is to

recognise the individual soldiers’ strengths and areas that require improvement. After the initial education assessment, the staff of Pearson TQ invest time with each soldier explaining an individual learning programme in order to make sure that each soldier has the best possible chance of passing their examination.

The Regt is committed to supporting Pearson TQ by assuring that no soldier on an apprenticeship leaves without gaining at least a Level 1 in both Mathematics and English. Pearson TQ will also provide that soldiers’ future units with all learning materials, exam results and information they have on each soldier they have taught, enabling the Royal Logistics Corps to keep investing in its soldiers’ educations and ultimately their futures.

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#BritishArmyLogistics Trade update – Air Despatch WO1 Andy Williams has been appointed as the new Head of Trade for Air Despatch.

So far, 2022 has been a busy and exciting year for 47AD Sqn. By Cpl Bradford. The start of 2022 saw the Sqn deploy on Ex AUSTRAL ENDURANCE. Eight members of the Sqn worked out of RAF Mount Pleasant, in the Falkland Islands and air dropped essential supplies to the British Antarctic Survey Team in Antarctica. A total of 7 Sorties were completed each lasting 10 hours in duration and critical supplies were air dropped from the C130J Hercules.

This was quickly followed by Ex CHAMELEON, a bi-annual validation exercise involving over 1,000 pax in RAF Akrotiri. 381 Troop deployed and worked alongside other units. 47AD rigged a wide variety of loads during the exercise but the main AD system used was Free Drop Aerial Delivery (FDAD).

During March, two AD crews conducted a nine-hour sortie at short notice from RAF Brize Norton to Estonia and back as part of Ex DIRT TRACK. This was to resupply troops on the ground with some much-needed equipment and to demonstrate the long-range insertion capabilities of the Atlas A400M aircraft.

In May, two crews deployed to Alaska as part of Ex RED FLAG, one of the largest NATO exercises.

During the exercise, support was provided to personnel on the ground by means of AD of small stores.

They also took part in fighter evasion drills. This is where the AD crew stand in the doors of the C130J and spot enemy fast jets whilst conducting low-level manoeuvres.

The Sqn also deployed on Ex SWIFT RESPONSE, a major NATO exercise in North Macedonia. Working together with US counterparts, rigging each other’s loads such as quad bikes, trailers, rations, and ammunition, the exercising troops were able to maintain their

HEADS OF TRADE | THE SUSTAINER

47 Air Despatch Squadron 2022

momentum showcasing the versatility of aerial delivery.

With all of this going on the sqn has still managed to run a successful Basic Air Despatch B3 course and a Despatch Crew Commanders B1 course with another seven newly trained Air Despatchers and two newly qualified DCC’s taking up their positions.

In addition, the 31 May saw HRH The Princess Royal visit RAF Brize Norton, and 47AD had the pleasure to be part of it. HRH was briefed on the Container Delivery System, the exciting opportunities that the A400 provides, and the multi-faceted role of the Sqn in Defence.

The Joint Air Delivery Test and Evaluation Unit (JADTEU) AD Section CDS trials in Spain The JADTEU AD Sect recently deployed to Spain to give advice and work alongside the A400M Airbus Multinational Trials Team in the flight trials of the max weight Container Delivery System (CDS).

Several air drops were conducted testing different configurations.

It was a challenge to ensure UK rules and the other nations rules were all followed.

8 Ex AUSTRAL ENDURANCE

100mile charity walk In Aug 21, ten members of the Section took part in a four-day charity walk. 105 miles of the Cotswold Way, from Chipping Campden to the centre of Bath were covered across various types of terrain and gradients. The Section was delighted to raise the sum of £2,175 for Erskine Veterans Hospital, which has cared for exservicemen and women since 1916.

Ground assessments of Air Despatch systems on the A400m aircraft With the C130 exiting service next year, JADTEU has been a hive of activity bringing the current air despatch systems over to the A400m aircraft, while also trialling new systems that will enhance future capabilities. Flight trials of these systems are due to start the second half this year.

Parachute symposium Personnel from JADTEU attended the parachute symposium held in Toulouse, France. Here, innovative and new parachute solutions were discussed. This also provided an opportunity to enhance interoperability with the French and US Armed Forces.

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THE SUSTAINER | UNDERSTANDING THE WAR IN UKRAINE

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Despite weeks of assurances from the Kremlin, on the 24 February 2022, many woke to the news that Russian forces had started their invasion of Ukraine. War had come to Europe when many had thought that conflict was nearly outlawed as a mechanism of international relations.

Over the next few years, there will undoubtedly be an outpouring of publications and media diatribe about the Ukrainian War, its reasons, conduct and long-term effects. Many armchair generals, self-appointed military experts, consultants, politicians and news hacks will have a view. Whether this European conflict represents a Stunde Null (zero hour) for global liberal democracy remains to be seen. The only thing that we know for certain is that published quantity is unlikely to be aligned with quality. In an attempt to navigate through this publishing mêlée and media debris, the RLCF Book Club will try to answer the question of whether we should be worried about Ukraine and what sources you may wish to consult to help determine an informed view.

Perhaps the easiest approach to measuring the threats posed by the war is to focus on three themed aspects. Firstly, the wider implications for Europe and the international community, secondly, the conduct and character of the conflict with its potential legacies, and finally, the West’s attention span whilst in the hailstorm of widespread domestic economic and social challenges.

The War in Ukraine shocked the 28

Credit: Shutterstock

Ukraine: Should we be worried that this is a Stunde Null for Liberal Democracy? An RLC Foundation Book Club Appraisal

West, not so much for its ferocity, that came slightly later, but because many believed that war had been outlawed, at least in Europe. Hathaway’s and Shapiro’s The Internationalists (2017), offers evidenced insights into the dangers of returning to an earlier age of settling international disputes and the potential opportunities in the twenty-first century if war can be avoided. Watching the endless news cycle of the besieged Ukrainian cities is like stepping into a living past. Few would have thought that scenes reminiscent of conflicts in the twentieth century would have re-emerged in present day Europe. Liberal democracy is under an overt physical attack by an autocracy which threatens the balance of the world order. The problem for the West is that this order was created by institutions largely under the control of the leading liberal democracies at the end of the Second World War. The Bretton Woods System for example, spawned the IMF and World Bank and international trade relations were stabilised to a degree by the General Agreement

8 Unity March in Kyiv demonstrating Ukrainians' patriotic spirit and resolve to resist Russian aggression

on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). Whilst no single initiative was perfect, they did offer the means by which individual states could work to stabilise the international system and their part in it. In effect, the post-war global institutions underpinned capitalism, facilitated global trade, encouraged broad cultural understanding and recognised shared values and standards. Liberal democracy had a framework plan that offered betterment – or so liberal nations believed. The line was easily drawn between democracy believers and the others. The Cold War made it simple to visualise and politicians reaped the rewards of a clear communications strategy that people could understand. With this general comprehension, Kissinger’s (World Order, 2015, p.37) view holds true in that to be stable, the international order has to reflect a uniform perception. Russia however has openly challenged this perception of the rules-based

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provides a broad historiography of the country and the reasons why, what he terms, ‘the Ukrainian crisis,’ erupted in 2014 and how the situation was likely to get worse before it got better.

So what of the Russians? Much of Putin’s rhetoric is centered on making Russia great again (an unwitting admittance of its decline). He has fabricated a historiography that the Kremlin believes supports a war narrative.

To understand the paranoia that surrounds Putin and his acolytes, Roxburgh (Moscow Calling, 2018) offers a view from inside the country and cites Tyutchev (p.343) where, ‘You can’t understand Russia with the mind alone…In Russia you just have to believe.’

And it seems Russians do believe, as Lawson (The Sunday Times, 2022, p.24) reports, ‘domestic support for Putin has only grown in the wake of the invasion of Ukraine.’ If we are to convince the majority of Russians that liberal democracy is not a threat to them, it seems we have some way to go to break through the apparatus of state propaganda and Putin’s internal watching-eye. Whilst Ukraine is currently the regional focus, there is more to play for and Moscow knows this. Ukraine sits on an ideological fault line that stretches north to the Baltic and south east along the Belt and Road Initiative to Taiwan. If the cracks are allowed to travel – and they will likely follow the weakest path, other autocracies may also determine that war may once again be a credible mechanism to reshape the international system.

Credit: Pixabay

system and usurped three-quarters of a century of law, order and accepted norms. Prior to this latest assault on Ukraine, President Putin was largely successful in sustaining his autocracy through bluff, cyber-attacks, assassinations, false-flag operations, energy leveraging and money laundering. Pursuit of this multifaceted war in the grey zone confirms the Kremlin’s recognition that might is the preferred edged tool of Putin’s governance.

Inadvertently, Putin may have undermined his regime and inadvertently strengthened liberal democracy with his latest actions in Ukraine. In 1988, a Russian political propagandist declared to the West that, ‘we are going to do something terrible to you…we are going to deprive you of an enemy’ (Kominsky, 2011). Fukuyama (The End of History and the Last Man, 1993) unwittingly mirrored this prophecy when he declared that the cessation of the Cold War represented, ‘the end of history’.

With liberal democracy seemingly triumphant and denied an opposing ideology, it could be argued that since the demise of the Soviet Union, the West has taken its liberal values for granted and its contingency preparations to defend its principles have withered accordingly. Of course, it should be remembered that from 1991, Ukraine’s politics were not particularly coherent and its institutions of governance remained contested from a myriad of opposing quarters as it attempted to fill the void left by communism.

Sakwa (Frontline Ukraine, 2016)

UNDERSTANDING THE WAR IN UKRAINE | THE SUSTAINER

So, Ukraine is important, not only for the future health of liberal democracy in Europe but also globally. To help sustain the West’s liberal values we have to contest Putin’s aggression and to do that we need to understand the conduct and character of a war that may be mirrored along the ideological fault line.

There has been nearly four months to assess the operational plans and combat effectiveness of Russia’s forces. Many have been surprised at the perceived lack of tempo in securing what military pundits have identified as ‘Ukraine’s centre of gravity’. Urban areas, power plants, ports and transport nodes have been targeted but in many regions the fighting has lacked precision and developed into an attritional campaign. Much has been proffered over the capabilities of the Russian Army and its blunt, blundering advances (and withdrawals). Perhaps to better understand the conduct of the Russian offensive, one has to take a historic view of conflict in Ukraine with that of other contemporary regional conflicts.

In WWII, the Russians eventually liberated Ukraine from the Reich in an operation which commenced on 25 December 1943. In total, five major offensives were conducted with one centred on Kiev – sound familiar? The Red Army ground to a halt 80 miles south-west of the city on 14 January 1944. Why? – in March 1944 the Germans adopted a festung strategy to defend the largest urban centres in a loose operational concept known as the 8 Pursuit of this multifaceted war is the preferred edged tool of Putin’s governance

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8 A residential building damaged by Russian aircraft in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv

friendly fire and suicide (BBC Podcast, online).

Whilst the kinetic lines of development are similarly contested in Ukraine, the West has adopted a dual strategy which maximises its soft power and monopoly of international institutions. As well as supplying lethal and logistic aid in conjunction with humanitarian assistance, it is also treading a well-worn path of outcasting through banishment from the recognised economic framework of the international order. Outcomes of penalising international defaulters through economic sanctions is neither immediate nor a demonstration of marshal commitment, but it can be effective. The array of ever-increasing commercial punitive measures is yet to fully impact on the Kremlin’s war but Mulder (The Economic Weapon, 2022) offers a historic view where

Credit: Shutterstock

Panther Defence Line. The defence of Korel and Brody in western Ukraine are examples of how cities can be successfully defended – albeit at great cost. Similar scenes were played out in Grozny in 1995, where the Russians re-learnt how hard it is to assault and subjugate a city (Grau and Thomas, Marine Corps Gazette, 1999). Perhaps the Russians knew that taking and holding Ukraine’s large urban centres would be expensive given the scale and complexity of the task. According to The Economist (March 2022, p.15), US Army doctrine stipulates that 20-25 soldiers per 1,000 people are required to hold down an insurgency. Presumably, these soldiers need to be well versed in counter-insurgency and capacity building in unison with essential governance regimes – the Russian Army has shown little skill in this area in Afghanistan, Georgia or Chechnya. If one needs to be convinced, Goltz (Chechnya Diary, 2003) offers a vivid, first-hand account of how the Russians operated in Chechnyan cities.

If Russian forces did enter into the hearts of Ukraine’s cities, the likelihood is that the complex terrain would nullify much of the fighting advantages that they enjoy in standoff engagements in semi-urban areas. Even with modern technologies such as drones and thermobaric weapons, the dehumanizing nature of fighting in urban areas has not significantly changed since WWII and readers need only read Beevor’s Stalingrad (1998) or Glantz’s Red Storm over the Balkans (2007), to gain an understanding of why aggressors are reluctant to get embroiled in urban contests of will. Putin’s Generals will certainly want to avoid what Beevor (p.131) describes as a squalid rat war fought amongst the rubble. There will certainly be a cohort of Russia’s political elite and Putin’s inner military circle who are aware of the cost of fighting such a war from recent experience.

In December 1979, Russia’s planned short operation of liberation in Afghanistan morphed into nearly a decade of contested occupation. In total, 15,000 of its soldiers died, 3,000 of them by

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THE SUSTAINER | UNDERSTANDING THE WAR IN UKRAINE

8 The UK cost of living crisis will distract people from Geopolitical issues

sanctions can be lethal but may also prove less of a honed weapon than originally envisaged. The way that Moscow has attempted to choreograph the war has failed to break the will of the Ukrainians. A lack of coherent Russian combined arms actions, poor logistics, indiscriminate bombing, plunder, illdiscipline and low morale have proven counterproductive – at least so far. How multifaceted hard and soft power pressures can be sustained by the West may depend as much on domestic challenges and agendas as international ones.

Geopolitics has never been conducted in isolation and growing capitalism and globalization has increased the dependency and complexity of economic, political and social interactions. That said, domestic agendas can still affect and frequently eclipse global issues.

One of the real concerns is that whilst we know Ukraine is important, conflating issues, such as the cost-of-living crisis, could relegate it and the sustainment of liberal values to a close second. A single mother in the UK who cannot afford heating through the 2022/23 winter is unlikely to be focused on defending liberal values over a thousand miles away. The view from her freezing window may not be one of urban warfare, but if she

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has no control over her offspring’s immediate predicament, she might feel that concerning herself with geopolitics is somewhat of a luxury (if she feels anything at all). Why does this matter to Ukraine? Carville (1992), when campaigning for Bill Clinton, explained it in a nutshell, ‘it’s the economy stupid’ and specifically the domestic economy.

Perversely, the single mother exercises her perspective on government priorities through her democratic voting rights. By prioritising her domestic issues over challenges to global liberal democracy, she unwittingly changes the government’s international focus as more of the available political bandwidth is taken with alleviating home economics. Using this example, which will be played out in millions of homes over the coming winter, Ukraine seems to have a certain political and economic shelf life.

The Economist (2021, p.7) captures liberal democracy’s predicament where, ‘Britain will not be taken seriously abroad if it is falling apart at home’. Supporting global democracy therefore may form part of the background landscape rather than the focal point. Ukraine will no doubt remain important – but only to a degree. Britain’s (and many other European nations’) domestic agenda will likely ensure that supporting liberal values abroad has a financial saturation point beyond which voters may refocus on domestic issues. Perhaps Europe can afford to sustain domestic and foreign policies with equal priority but nothing is certain in an out-of-control cost-of-living crisis.

In summary, Ukraine is important if the ideological struggle between liberal democracy and autocracy is to be sustained and western focused global institutions are to remain primus inter pares in their controlling influence over the rules-based international system.

Unless Russia is subjected to punishing retributions that shape its behavior away from conflict, war could once again be back on the table as a bona fide mechanism for resolving international disputes.

Ukraine’s sovereignty is therefore paramount to influencing thinking in other autocratic capitals of the world. To support liberal values in

UNDERSTANDING THE WAR IN UKRAINE | THE SUSTAINER

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the Ukraine, democracy must be seen to be credible at home, primarily through sound economics.

Significant domestic malfunctions could threaten to curtail any sustained focus on international affairs. Closer to home, global Britain can only be projected from a firm economic base and some nimble domestic/foreign fiscal rebalancing is required before the autumn if Ukraine is to remain in focus. Alarmingly, despite all the deaths, destruction, war crimes, displacement and financial ruin, Ukraine could just be the calm before the storm – there is a growing spectre of autocracies threatening the international system. Attriting liberal democracy’s enemies as far out as possible as part of a coalition still seems a credible strategy but sustaining good intentions through a financial crisis may be a challenging ask.

Nonetheless, whether the heating is on or not, Ukraine should remain important. Instead of asking should we be worried, perhaps the real question is how worried should we be? Winter is coming, and while there is unlikely to be any clear winner in Ukraine, there is certainly potential for several losers – at home and abroad.

References Beevor, A, (1998) ‘Stalingrad’, Viking Publishing.

BBC World Service, The Soviet Union’s Afghan War, History Broadcast. Online at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct3 c58 [Accessed 6 April 2022].

8 The realities of Warfare: A damaged school in Barmashovo, Ukraine

Carville, J., A political strategist for Bill Clinton’s 1992 Presidential campaign, he used the platform of the failing domestic economy as the cornerstone of the Democrats election strategy together with health care and change versus the same, as simple slogans to catch the electorates attention and focus the campaign team.

The Economist, Britain’s Place in the World, Leader Section, January 2-8th 2021.

The Economist, The Stalinisation of Russia, Leader Section, March 12-18th 2022.

Glantz, D, M. (2007) ‘Red Storm over the Balkans: The Failed Soviet Invasion of Romania, Spring 1944’, University Press of Kansas.

Goltz, T. (2003) ‘Chechnya Diary: A War Correspondent’s Story of Surviving the War in Chechnya,’ Thomas Dunne Books.

Grau, L.W., and Thomas, T. L., “Soft Log” and Concrete Canyons: Russian Urban Combat Logistics in Grozny’, USMC Gazetta, October 1999.

Hathaway, O. A., and S.J. Shapiro (2017) ‘The Internationalists and their Plan to Outlaw War’, Penguin Random House UK. Kissinger, H. (2015) ‘World Order’, Penguin Random House UK. Kominsky, E. (2011) ‘Amongst the Chatter, America Burns’, Harvard Political Review.

Roxburgh, A. (2018) ‘Moscow Calling – Memoirs of a Foreign Correspondent,’ Birlinn Ltd, Edinburgh.

Sakwa, R. (2016) ‘Frontline Ukraine – Crisis in the Borderlands’, I. B. Tauris & Co. Ltd, London.

The Sunday Times, Russians won’t change their minds on Ukraine, Comment, 10 April 2022, p.24.

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THE SUSTAINER | OP ORBITAL MEDIA

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RLC MEDIA OFFICER IN UKRAINE Insight into being the deployed media officer for Operation ORBITAL (Ukraine).

By Capt Alex Stephenson

In September 2021, I was lucky enough to deploy, through a trawl for Operation ORBITAL, as the SO3 Media within the permanently Ukrainian based Headquarters. Operation ORBITAL was the military capacity building mission between the UK and Ukraine.

Established in 2015 following the annexation of Crimea and the war in the Donbas, HQ Operation ORBITAL would deploy Short Term Training Teams (STTT) to deliver non-lethal training, ranging from two to six weeks within various locations and with various units across the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU).

Prior to my deployment, my media experience was limited to completing the Defence Communicators Course and being the Unit Communications Officer for 29 Regiment RLC, as a secondary duty as my time as a Squadron Second in Command.

Although my media experience was limited, being the Unit Comms Officer whilst at Regimental Duty allowed me to learn and develop my skills at low level media operations within a safe environment where many of the responsibilities of the role were transferrable to my time deployed. I would fully recommend for anyone currently serving in The RLC, officer or soldier who is interested in military media operations to volunteer and become a part of a Unit Communications Cell.

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ORBITAL during routine business Prior to December 2021, there had been a few occurrences of escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia. However, Operation ORBITAL continued to deliver essential training to the AFU, like many other multinational partners such as the Canadians through Operation UNIFIER and the US, through the Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine (JMTG-U).

During this routine activity, my job was incredibly interesting and allowed me to develop myself outside of the usual RLC Officer expertise. It also allowed me to work with RLC Photographers, a trade group I had previously never had the opportunity work directly with. My main responsibilities, being the only UK military media point of contact in theatre was to; launch and manage official social media channels, capture content of STTT activity, edit the captured content into a final product and maintain positive relationships between the UK and the AFU Public Affairs Officer network; whilst also maintaining relationships with my multinational counterparts.

There were some challenges to these responsibilities. Being the sole media service person in theatre, capturing all STTT activity, factoring in the size of Ukraine and the dispersion of training across various locations, meant I relied on my AFU Public Affairs Officers to capture content on my behalf.

However, the working relationship

8 The Op ORBITAL Tactical Recognition Flash

that had been built over the past seven years between ORBITAL and the AFU meant this support was mutually beneficial and allowed for a certain freedom of manoeuvre when it came to media operations.

A large proportion of the role was spent liaising with Permanent Joint Headquarters (PJHQ) and the J9 (Media, Legal and Policy) department. As the overarching command headquarters over the operation in Ukraine, all authority sat with them. Although Letters of Delegation were later released to me, allowing media in theatre to be executed at pace. However, all substantial media activity had to be planned and staffed to PJHQ J9 prior for approval.

Russian tensions In the beginning of 2022, towards the latter half of my tour, a significant shift change was felt throughout our HQ, with the continued increase in Russian build-up on the Ukrainian borders.

For the first time the UK declared a shipment of lethal aid in the form of Defensive Anti-Tank weaponry and a deploying STTT to train the AFU on the weapon systems. It was stated in Parliament, that this activity would fall under the Operation ORBITAL framework.

On 20 January 2022, Operation ORBITAL released the initial footage of the first shipment of lethal aid being delivered to Kyiv

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#BritishArmyLogistics alongside our AFU partners. The footage was used by international media outlets with a significant increase in international journalists contacting myself wanting to view future ORBITAL training.

The initial difficulties arose during this time of a ‘no media’ policy on the deployed STTT however, with often conflicting narratives on the situation, photos were regularly released through Ukrainian media.

Being the only UK media point of contact in theatre at the time, and the deployed STTT operating over 500km away in L'viv with the HQ still operating out of Kyiv, controlling any external media proved difficult.

ORBITAL had never been in the media limelight as much as it was in January 22. For seven years, relatively low level STTT’s had deployed to Ukraine and never broken out of much more than regional, if not the military, media echo chambers. This media attention peaked on 28 Jan with the first rotation of STTT’s concluding with a live firing package. 82 international and national journalists were invited for a media event during the morning of the ranges, all equally interested in the UK involvement in the training. Through liaison with PJHQ J9 and higher organisations, strict Lines to take and a no-interview policy were passed down to myself to execute.

All good plans never survive, and the media event on 28 Jan was no exception. Immediately following the arrival of the media party escorted by the AFU, they received briefs from the Head of AFU Media for the L'viv Military Academy and myself. Following the brief that no 8 AFU soldiers during an Op ORBITAL training package

OP ORBITAL MEDIA | THE SUSTAINER

UK Service Personnel were to be interviewed, at least five journalists immediately pulled out their microphones for questions from myself. Where the majority where simple to answer and the LTT were utilised, some journalists from tabloid organisations asked more pressing and awkward questions such as: “Are these soldiers now regarded as special forces after their training from the British Army?”

No matter the answer you give, the journalist will always be able to spin it to fit their narrative.

However, after only briefly appearing on BBC News at 10 at a moment - I wasn’t made aware of that I was being filmed - the event was largely a success with no strategic blunders being made and the AFU organising and executing an efficient and professional media event at short notice.

I must stress however, although dealing with external media organisations doesn’t come without challenges, these opportunities for military media officers are rare and are often an excellent opportunity to showcase and develop the

8 AFU Officers answering questions at the press conference during the media event in Jan 22

media ‘brand’ of whatever organisation you work for.

I mentioned that this was the peak for Operation ORBITAL within media operations as we all know on the 24 Feb the Russian tensions boiled over, with their full-scale invasion into Ukrainian territory. Days prior the announcement was made by the Armed Forces Minister that all British troops had withdrew from Ukraine.

The final days of my deployment were spent media monitoring the Ukrainian social media accounts we knew of, to allow HQ ORBITAL and our intelligence team understand and analyse the open-source updates we were receiving through social media.

Lessons learnt from my experiences Upon reflection, my deployment to Ukraine was an excellent opportunity to develop myself as an officer within media operations and to understand the freedoms, challenges and opportunities working with the Joint Multinational environment can present, when planning, executing and refining media operations.

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, Media Operations although not core business for the officer cohort, do provide an alternative and interesting route to develop your pan-Army expertise whilst also allowing to work with the RLC Photographer trade. I fully standby that if anyone is interested in Media Operations and the future activity that can lead into, then an individual should volunteer. The experiences from my deployment were not only developmental but also incredibly fascinating.

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THE SUSTAINER | FRENCH LOGISTICS SCHOOL VISIT

By Maj H T Theodorakakis MBE, SI Fd Log 3, DSLA The Defence College of Logistics, Policing and Administration (DCLPA) was invited to the French Logistic School (Les Ecoles Militaires de Bourges) to participate in the formation day celebrations of French logistics.

This celebration was run by the French School of Transport and Operational Logistics (Ecole du Train et de la Logistique Opérationnelle), DCLPA’s sister school in France. This formation day celebration is called the fête du Train.

The DCLPA delegation consisted of the Commandant of DCLPA, Brig M E G Caldicott CBE, the Commandant of the Defence School of Logistics and Administration (DSLA), Gp Capt L Griffin RAF, and Maj H T Theodorakakis MBE from the Command Wing who was previously an Exchange Officer with the French Army. While the primary motive for sending the delegation was to demonstrate our shared commitment to the Franco-British defence partnership and to interoperability, it was also an opportunity to revitalise personal relationships between key college personalities and to signal our intent for greater partnership in the future.

DCLPA’s delegation was but one of three: The Deputy Commandant from the German Logistics School represented Germany and the Belgian Armed Forces Deputy Head of Training represented Belgium.

The DCLPA delegation was also accompanied by the CSS Liaison Officer of the British Defence Staff, Paris, Lt Col E M Sedgwick RLC, who also manages all visits and liaison matters in-country.

Most logistic units of the French Army were represented by either their Commanding Officers or Regimental Seconds-in-Command and, representing higher formations, was Commander Logistic Support of the French Field Army, a 2-star general. The French Chief of the Army Staff attended the actual formation day parade and dinner afterwards. As something equivalent to a Corps Open Day, many other French Army logisticians of all ranks gathered in Bourges for the two days.

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The fête du Train

8 After the Act of Remembrance

The arrival The international delegations were treated to a dinner shortly after their arrival by the French leadership. This provided an opportunity for the DCLPA personalities to get to know their French counterparts better in a relaxed setting. This was all the more important as French partnering activity had not occurred at all since the first COVID lockdown. With new leadership on both sides, it was important to re-establish the personal chemistry on which all successful alliances run.

The French are particularly good at hosting like this: the food consisted of regional specialties accompanied by regional wines.

They also naturally adhere to protocol: at exactly 2250 the Commandant of the French School of Transport and Operational Logistics, Colonel Guillaume Santoni, thanked the delegations and wished them a good night. The evening provided an opportunity to at least start the conversation of investing in more substantial partnering activity.

The day of the celebrations The day of the fête du Train started with a continental breakfast with the same French hosts. As French service personnel had to participate in an inter-regimental sporting competition and the young officers’

course had to select their first units, the French had arranged for the international delegation to visit their museum and then the Sancerre vineyard before the evening’s ceremonies.

The French train their young officers for a year and mark them on a variety of tests. These result in them receiving an overall grade at the end of their course. The highest scoring student will get their first choice of unit, the second their first choice, unless it has already been selected by the highest scorer, and so on until the final student is placed.

The Museum of Military Transport (Musée du Train et des Equipages Militaires) is a new facility opened in 2021 that contains various collections of logistic soldier uniforms, equipment and documents from the time of Napoleon to the First Gulf War. Spacious, bright, and well-appointed with original weapons, the soldiers and officers of Bourges rightly take great pride in the museum. For the British serviceperson, the museum has interesting vignettes on French campaigns in Algeria and Indochina, which offer easily accessible perspectives on operations that the British Army has not experienced. The great care and sensitivity with which the Museum describes the actions in Algeria, in this post-Colonial environment, is also a useful lesson in messaging.

The international delegation then moved to Sancerre, an hour’s drive away from Bourges in the Loire Valley. This is the location of various vineyards that give the area its eponymous fine wines. The Chateau de Sancerre vineyard gave the delegation a tour of its vineyard, historic buildings, and winemaking facilities.

The ceremonies After a fine (and free) lunch at a local restaurant, the international delegation was transported back to Bourges where, after a quick-change parade, they attended a Roman

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Catholic Mass. The religious commemoration of the formation

by Napoleon of the Regiments du Train was attended by all Commanding Officers or Regimental Seconds-in-Command and all the general staff present, including General Canitrot, Commander Logistic Support of the French Field Army.

Once Mass had ended, an act of remembrance was conducted with the assembled dignitaries, regiments, students and instructional staff at the School’s Monument to the Dead. This service, which was more of a parade as the religious elements had already been covered during Mass, was accompanied by the unfurling of various Regimental Colours. This added to the sense of history and ceremony and was worth the extra drill movements.

Once dismissed from the Act of Remembrance, the same group moved the short distance to the School’s parade square where the main parade took place. This was presided over by the French Chief of the Army Staff, General Pierre Schill, who read the order of the day that Napoleon wrote when he formed the Regiments du Train.

Gallantry awards were also presented for logisticians recently returned from operations in Mali. As tradition dictates, the parade was inspected by a young officer on horseback dressed as Napoleon before the current intake of young officers was given the name La Promotion Daguet, after the French Operation name the First Gulf War. Among the many impressive things about both parades, the participation of the civilian staff for the entire duration stands out, particularly given how long the parades lasted. The civilian members of staff of all age groups stood respectfully in their allotted ranks, demonstrating strong endurance and a great sense of civic duty.

The celebrations After the parade was dismissed, the assembled service persons retired to the dining facility (France had to do away with Messes years ago) and were served a fine meal using regional ingredients. A

FRENCH LOGISTICS SCHOOL VISIT | THE SUSTAINER

central long table of guests, higher ranking visiting logisticians and their hosts was flanked on either side by ranks of tables containing the various regimental colour parties and representatives.

The French Tringlots (a slang word French logisticians call themselves) use the fête du Train to catch up with old friends. For historical reasons, Les Ecoles Militaires de Bourges is in the centre of France, which allowed its military to exploit interior lines tactics and get supplies equally quickly to any of its frontiers when France was at war. Nowadays it makes it easy for Tringlots to assemble annually.

The Tringlots wear what can only be described as a drinking hat (that looks like the RLC Side Hat) when socialising and drinking called a calot. The French Chief of the Army Staff addressed the assembled audience after dinner while wearing a calot, congratulating them on their formation day, and stressing the need to be ready to deploy, at short notice if necessary, in light of current events. For those who were still thirsty, the all-ranks bar was opened.

The results Great personal rapport was established between the college and school commandants and their French counterparts. This meeting, under the guise of an official ceremonial visit, was but the first step in restoring a regular battle rhythm of exchanges that would allow UK and French

8 DCLPA delegates at the Chateau de Sancerre Vineyard

instructors to share best practice and learn from each other’s experience. Notably, the French are still conducting protected logistic moves in hostile territory in Mali. As demonstrated by the valour of the logisticians decorated at the parade, they are acquitting themselves well on operations.

The Command Wing of DSLA will be sending two instructors to observe the French combined arms exercise in which all young officers on special-to-arm training attend the same exercise performing their actual role.

There will be much to learn from how the French conduct this type of training as it is very compatible with DLW’s Force Optimisation work strand. DCLPA is also looking forward to hosting a reciprocal visit to the UK for the French delegation later this year.

The lessons for RLC Officers and Soldiers All RLC units are paired with a French unit. 2016DIN07-113 provides the detail on how to conduct partnering activity. The French are very keen to work with their British counterparts and exchanges like this are easy to plan.

They are also an excellent way to better understand one of our most important defence partners and increase interoperability. As the French Chief of the Army Staff said, we may be asked to do this sooner rather than later.

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THE SUSTAINER | EXERCISE In February 2022, members of 13 Air Assault Support Regiment (AASR) deployed to Kuwait on Ex DESERT WARRIOR 6 to provide Real Life Support (RLS) in addition to developing interoperability with the US Army. By Lt M Clary Ex DESERT WARRIOR 6 saw British troops from across 16 AABCT conduct surveillance and reconnaissance training with the newly re-roled Kuwaiti Armed Forces 4th Bn and the Kuwaiti National Guard.

13 AASR was initially tasked with providing RLS with several drivers and an Ammunition Storeman to manage the Ammunition Compound for the duration of the exercise.

Upon arriving in Kuwait, the 13 AASR team was able to establish a multitude of contacts from the US Army based at Camp Buehring with the intent of exploring joint training opportunities outside of the RLS commitment.

As the team consisted of members from 82 Squadron’s Airborne Troop, specialist training opportunities focused on HUSLE (Helicopter Underslung Load Equipment), known as ‘Sling Load’ to the US Army, started to be developed. HUSLE is a core capability of 82 Squadron Airborne Troop, normally utilised by enabling the rapid replenishment of vital supplies to the 3 PARA Battlegroup wherever they are located in the battlespace.

The US Army generously provided Airborne Troop with teaching facilities for the duration of the exercise. This consequently enabled the team to deliver Rigger Marshaller and Landing Point Commander theory lessons, under the direction of Heli Handling Instructors SSgt Whitley and WO2 Jones.

Due to the length of the exercise, 13 AASR was able to offer training to multiple units from across 16 AABCT. This included elements of 2 PARA, 3 PARA, 23 PARA RE, 1 R IRISH and Pathfinders; further enhancing the capabilities of all units involved. This also presented a great opportunity for more junior members of the troop to showcase their knowledge, an area where LCpl Cooper, Pte Ramsay and Pte Dobson excelled.

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Ex DESERT WARRIOR 6

8 US Army UH-60 lifting a netted load prepared by British troops

8 SSgt Whitley giving direction to British troops prior to working with US Army CH-47

This training was further complemented by the US Army, 11th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade (ECAB), who provided the team with UH-60 and CH-47 support to complete the practical side of the syllabus. In addition to providing the British troops with a unique aircraft to work with, it also enabled the 11th ECAB to revalidate 13 Pilots and 17 Crew Chiefs in HUSLE/Sling Load training, significantly improving interoperability between 13 AASR and the US Army.

Once training with the British units was complete, the team set out to further strengthen relations with the Americans by seeking more opportunities to share best practice. This resulted in combined interest lessons on HUSLE/Sling load being delivered between 13 AASR and 389th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion; 1067th Composite Truck Company; 2-2 Infantry; 3rd Brigade Combat Team and 10th Mountain Division from the US Army.

Having developed strong relationships in the prior training, the US logistics units provided additional opportunities to enhance the knowledge and experience of the 13 AASR team. This saw members of the Regt being exposed to various different US vehicle platforms whilst also learning about US Army convoy operations through joining a tasking to the SPOD in Kuwait.

Ex DESERT WARRIOR 6 was a highly successful exercise for 13 AASR. Not only did the team effectively fulfil their RLS commitment, they were also able to create highly engaging and valuable training with a key NATO partner. Furthermore, the exercise gave the junior soldiers a great opportunity for development, particularly through their roles in assisting with the delivery of both theory and practical training.

8 US Army CH-47 preparing to lift a Humvee

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RLC MUSEUM | THE SUSTAINER

The Crimean War (1854-1856) By - Major (Retd) Simon Walmsley Director, The Royal Logistic Corps Museum

Given the ongoing events in Europe today, it is perhaps appropriate to reflect on the Crimean War of 1854-1856, when Britain, France and Turkey fought Russia in the region.

For the British, the Crimean War is remembered for its military and logistical incompetence as well as for the bravery and endurance of its soldiers, who fought in the harshest of conditions. The resulting reforms, enquiries and commissions, which examined the failings in this war, were far reaching and transformatory; leading to many changes in the governance of the British Army and also in its supply, transport, feeding and medical arrangements.

The few Commissariat officers with the force found it impossible to supply the Army correctly, leading to severe shortages of food, fodder, clothing and tentage. The bitter winter of 1854 saw soldiers dying of the cold for lack of winter clothing, as well as from malnourishment, scurvy and disease. The eight-mile track between the small port at Balaclava and the soldiers’ encampment was a near impassable quagmire, while a lack of control at the port saw food rotting, whilst soldiers went hungry.

Because the Government had disbanded the highly regarded Royal Waggon Train in 1833 as a savings measure, the Army had no integral transport organisation and instead relied upon the Commissariat Department, a uniformed part of the Treasury, to hire, supply and transport non warlike stores, such as food, clothing, tentage and the like.

Whilst the Field Train Department of the Board of Ordnance, a

separate government department staffed again with uniformed civilians, provided the war like stores to the Army.

The Times correspondent William Russell left no time in reporting these shortcomings over the telegraph wire to the newspapers in London and the resulting furore nearly bought down the Government and galvanised them into action. In January 1855, a Land Transport Corps was raised under Colonel William McMurdo, to carry the goods and so resupply the Army.

A short railway track was also erected at vast expense to hasten resupply from the port. Celebrated chef Alexis Soyer invented a new stove to provide centralised feeding, deploying to the region to oversee its use and to train regimental cooks.

As a result of the Crimean War,

8 Balaclava Port 1855

8 The Land Transport Corps Crimea 1855

the Board of Ordnance, a huge government department, was disbanded and the Commissariat was transferred from the Treasury to War Office control. The responsibility of transporting and supplying the Army came under military control, and the Military Stores Department was raised, the forerunners of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps.

The RLC soldiers of today can trace their lineage in an unbroken line back to these Land Transport Corps soldiers in the Crimea, then apart from a small gap, even further back to the renowned Royal Waggon Train and the Battle of Waterloo.

In an ironic twist, the current conflict in the region involving Russia has seen severe logistical shortcomings on its part, significantly hamper its forces’ combat effectiveness. The moral of the story of most armed conflict is ignore the lessons of the past at your peril.

While Britain, France and Turkey are not engaged in direct armed conflict with Russia today, as members of NATO they are supplying Ukraine with defensive weapons, equipment and humanitarian aid, thanks to world class military supply chains.

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC FOUNDATION As we look to the future, the RLC Foundation (RLCF) seeks to play an increasingly central role in creating a “A Corps of informed, energised, highly professional soldiers, with the knowledge and networks to succeed in all environments and circumstances”.This can only be achieved with partners from industry, academia and professional bodies, but also from the wider Defence logistics community, the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force and the Civil Service.

The RLCF is delighted to inform the Corps that Lt Gen Richard Wardlaw OBE, Chief of Defence Logistics and Support, RAdm Andy Kyte CB, Chief Naval Logistics Officer and AVM Richard Hill, Director Support Transformation, have all accepted honorary membership of the RLC Foundation.This direct linkage with the wider Defence community will enhance our collective understanding of each other’s business, driving more effectively towards adopting best practice, and increasing the professional network that is essential to achieving the collective aims of The RLC and the RLC Foundation’s Strategies.

On 26 Apr 22, PA Consulting generously sponsored a webinar event - Living up to COP26, achieving more sustainable supply chains. Our guest speakers were Viliame Nonovo, Principal Consultant and Kim McCann, Partner and Sustainability Proponent both from PA Consulting, Simon Wheelton, Director of Utilities, Defence and Consumer Sector at Unipart Logistics, Air Commodore Ange Baker, Head of Force Development,

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The RLC Foundation

Sustainability and People and Brigadier Lee Daley, Head of Logistics Transformation, both from Defence Support Command. For those who couldn’t attend this event, visit the RLC Foundation website to access the link.

On 11 May 22, RLC Foundation corporate members visited RMAS. This event is hosted by Maj Gen Duncan Capps CBE, Comdt RMAS and included a leadership briefing and a tour of the Indian Room and the RMAS Chapel.

Future events On 19 Jul - Ex LOG SAFARI at Worthy Down training area.

RLC trade specialists will showcase trade skills within a field force setting to corporate members.

This will be followed by a visit to the RLC Museum.

8 RLCF members on the steps of Old College at RMAS in May 22

28 Sep 22 - 13 Air Assault Support Regiment is running a Military Planning event for RLCF members.

This event will be staged within a simulated field force headquarters, with hands-on activity for members, who can get to grips with military supply chain issues.

The RLC Foundation are now working from 101 Log Bde and from home. Contact details are: Director: Alan Woods rlcfoundation@gmail.com or Alan.Woods195@mod.gov.uk Business Support Manager: therlcfoundation@gmail.com Follow the RLCF on Linkedin and Facebook by searching for Royal Logistic Corps Foundation or visit our website: www.rlcfoundation.com The RLCF Book Club – A View from the Trenches Something different from the RLCF Book Club this issue. Whilst units will no doubt be feeling budgetary pressures; they are also likely to be challenged with providing cost effective personal/professional development training opportunities for their junior leaders. This is where the Book Club can help. Battlefield studies are officially recognised as an essential element in training soldiers 8 RLCF members will have the opportunity to visit Ex LOG SAFARI in July

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(yes, soldiers – this is not an officers’ sport) but they can prove to be a financial burden on tight budgets.

The good news is that no unit, whether home or abroad, is far from a battlefield and with a little imagination, clever staff work and a small team of administrators, some exceptional unit led studies can be organised and executed at little cost.

If more than one day can be devoted to the study, then it is also relatively easy to develop a local battle into part of a broader campaign conducted over sequential or intermittent days.

The best way to plan and execute a local battlefield study is to break the preparatory work down into phases.

The first phase is a broad examination of the locality to determine what is available. There are numerous books and websites (check the Battlefields Trust website) that give a short overview of battles (and campaigns), some have maps/photographs, and many have suggested battlefield walking routes.

Whilst these suffice for a general study, a military audience will demand deeper analysis and various topics will need to be discussed; strategy, tactics, leadership, technology and logistics, to name a

RLC FOUNDATION | THE SUSTAINER

few. Planners should consult Richard Holmes’War Walks (two volumes 1997), Ken and Denise Guest’s British Battles (1996) or William Seymour’s Battles in Britain 1642-1746 (two volumes 1975) to get a feel for what is available and achievable within the allocated study timeframe.

The next phase requires planners to identify the desired learning outcomes from the study and to do this a more detailed understanding of the period (to give context) is necessary together with obtaining access to some specialist publications.

Again, there is good news here, your local library and/or museum are likely to hold a repository of information. Army libraries are also likely to hold previous local Battlefield Study PXRs which can provide a wealth of information.

The third phase is to break the study down into the various themes that will allow learning outcomes to be achieved. To do this you must walk the ground. This initial ground recce is to identify suitable stopping points (known in the military as ‘stands’) where certain learning points can be illustrated and discussed, together with some basic administration. Think views, transport and toilets and you

8 Relavent battlefield studies can be executed cost effectively in the UK

will be off to a good start. The ground and an explanation of what happened, when and why is what brings a battlefield study to life so choose your stands carefully.

Finally, identify what resources you are going to commit to the study, visits to museums, pamphlets (self-generated or commercially published), maps/air photographs (think local repro resources), allocation of questions to groups/individuals etc.There is also the not insignificant planning for transport, parking, meals, ablutions and guest speakers (if you need them). If possible, conduct a complete run-through with sequenced timings to confirm the viability of the study.

Over the next month, the RLCF website plans to publish a worked example of a local battlefield study in Southern England, together with an illustration of how this can be developed into a two to three-day campaign study. For now, the book review below is just one example of the literature available for expanding a local battlefield study into a low-budget learning opportunity for all ranks – it just needs some clever planning and enthusiasm, something that the military are renowned for! If units are keen to pursue the opportunity of planning a local battlefield study, then they can contact the RLCF for advice and guidance.

8 No unit is far from a battlefield

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC BOXING

The RLC Boxing Championships return in 2022

#BritishArmyLogistics By kind permission of the Commanding Officer of 27 Regiment RLC, Lt Col B Reehal, the RLC Boxing Championships finals took place at the St Omer Barracks Gymnasium on Thursday 26 May 2022. This followed a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

The Championships provide an opportunity to identify future talent for the RLC Boxing team; some of whom will go on to represent the Army.

6 Regiment RLC fought hard to be crowned the RLC Boxing Champions of 2022, with 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC ladies crowned female champions. Pte Bladen (13 AASR ladies) was awarded best overall boxer.

The event was live streamed on YouTube by the RLC Comms Team, which ensured it could be viewed by the widest possible audience.

The RLC Corps boxing results Male team winners – 6 Regt Runners-up – 29 Regt Female team winners - 13 AASR Runners up – 4 Regt Best boxer – Pte Bladen – 13 AASR Most gallant boxer – Pte Baguley – 9 Regt Individual Corps Champions: • Female Feather Weight – Cfn Brookes 4 Regt • Male Feather Weight – Pte Ellis 17 P&M Regt • Male Lightweight – LCpl Raynor 6 Regt • Male Light Welterweight – Pte Naylor – 6 Regt • Male Welterweight – Pte Jarmolinski – 13 AASR • Male Light Middle – Pte Jones – 6 Regt • Female Light Welter – Pte Bladen – 13 AASR • Female Welterweight – Cpl Stevens – 13 AASR • Male Middleweight – Pte Blood – 6 Regt • Male Light-Heavyweight - Pte Mohamed – 29 Regt • Male Cruiserweight – Pte Howard 29 Regt • Male Heavyweight - LCpl Lawson – 6 Regt • Female Welterweight – Pte Hase 27 Regt • Male Super Heavyweight- Cfn Keenan – 4 Regt.

Photography: Cpl Barry McKenzie

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1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BICESTER CO: Lt Col H Cook • Adjt: Capt C Graham • RSM: WO1 J Halliday 1 Regiment RLC has been busy.

With much of the Regt associated to tasks and deployments, the focus has been on training and readiness. At the centre of it has been its people with the #TeamRhino ethos underpinning it all. We are ready.

2 Squadron This term has seen 2 Close Support Squadron committed to supporting the North-west Ambulance Service as part of a MACA task. 170 soldiers and officers from 1 and 27 Regiments deployed across the region in support of 37 ambulance stations. The soldiers completed a clinical and driving course before taking on the role of a Paramedic Emergency Service Assistant, working alongside a Paramedic or Technician.

Throughout the deployment, the soldiers worked as small independent teams alongside their NHS partners. Section Commanders worked autonomously and exercised their leadership skills in a challenging environment. The soldiers worked, on average, four 12-hour shifts a week. On a typical shift they would attend between three to eight emergency callouts.

No two of the 12,500 callouts attended were ever the same. The soldiers represented the Army with humility and professionalism and they should all be proud of the positive impact they have had.

12 Squadron 12 Close Support Squadron has been preparing its people aligned to high readiness tasks. The Sqn received a reduced timeline to be prepared, a challenge it has met head on. The Sqn has deployed on numerous exercises where the focus has been ‘READY for operations’. Ex MANDATED MEERKAT ensured all personnel completed basic mandatory training at a troop level, Ex RHINO ALLOY saw the Sqn achieve readiness to deploy, and finally Ex MOORLAND MEERKAT; a mounted 42

exercise, to fine tune skills and drills in all our vehicles.

During the limited time the Sqn was not deployed in the field, a critical focus was the increase in specific skill sets. JNCOs completed courses in Close Protection Unit Mastiff Driver and Commander.

Similarly, Ex ZERO MEERKAT focussed on increasing offensive superiority through a General Purpose Machine Gun range package. Not only was the Sqn operationally facing, but Yankee Troop also took part in PROJECT THESEUS - leader-follower experimentation - to enable the Field Army to understand and develop its utility.

23 Squadron This term has seen 23 General Support Squadron rapidly re-role to provide a Convoy Support Centre at high readiness to support any potential movement of NATO troops.

This required the Sqn to rapidly develop a new plan and change what and how it goes about its business. At the core of this was the soldiers, and at the end of a difficult,

8 12 Close Support Squadron deployed on Ex RHINO ALLOY

often confusing five weeks, it was the Regt's people that delivered change through their flexibility of mind, engagement and determination. It has highlighted just how important our people are, and that whilst challenges may be faced, almost all are able to be overcome with the right people and ethos. It is that ethos of the team that has stood them out as wanting to perform and deliver. It has been a whole team approach and one in which the Sqn has wholly delivered.

74 Squadron 74 Headquarters Squadron started the year with an increased focus on a range of inclusive activities designed to support the wider Regt and increase awareness of the three pillars of mental resilience. Whether through the faith committee, LGBT+, multicultural groups or neurodiversity leads, everything has been designed to strengthen #TeamRhino as it meets the challenges that this year has thrown at it.

Hand-in-hand with this has been the support to ongoing operations and exercises, enabling readiness across the Regt. This has required the whole team to drive towards maintaining a high state of readiness.

2022 has started at a fast pace supporting all activity the Regt undertakes. The Sqn is looking forward to a full calendar of overseas deployments, exercises, sports and adventurous training.

8 A/LCpl Thompson providing security and firming up his basic soldiering skills with the General Purpose Machine Gun on Ex MOORLAND MEERKAT

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3 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col G Wincott • Adjt: Capt A Baldwin • RSM: WO1 R Conway 3 Regiment RLC has been able to resume a sense of normality after its busy exercise period and learning of its future removal from the Army ORBAT. With a re-focus on training to prepare for our future commitments, including UKSB and Op CABRIT, this quarter has also provided opportunities for self-development with an emphasis on its people and ethos, whilst continuing to maintain operational effectiveness and community outreach. There has also been a plethora of adventurous training opportunities; it has been an exciting start to 2022.

In the pursuit of maintaining operational effectiveness, the Squadrons deployed on a mounted field training exercise to further refine the TTPs learnt in previous validation exercises both on Ex RED TRINITY and Ex IRON VIPER, as well as improving squadron cohesion.

The exercise additionally served as an element of pre-deployment training for 21 GS Sqn in preparation for its continued support overseas, deploying on Op CABRIT 10, in Estonia. This iteration of Op CABRIT saw a much larger contingent deploy, with the OC deploying for the first time to command the Theatre Support Squadron.

Out of the field and into the gym, the Regt conducted an inter-sqn British Army Warrior Fitness (BAWF) competition. Individuals were given the opportunity to represent their sqns in a physically

8 3 Regt takes a keen interest in BAWF

and mentally testing environment, in both team and individual events, showcasing the commitment and hard work required throughout the build-up training. Following the inter-sqn BAWF competition, the Regt competed at Army level, taking its most talented competitors and giving them the platform to compete at an even higher level. All team members showed unbelievable commitment and effort, but unfortunately no medals this time.

3 Regt has a keen interest in BAWF as it encourages soldiers to remain physically fit which is critical to maintaining operational readiness.

Keeping with the theme of people and ethos, 3 Regt helped host the Station Ghanaian Independence Day celebrations. These celebrations were to commemorate Ghana’s independence from Great Britain on 6th March 1957. This is an annual event which brings the Ghanaian community across the world together to celebrate. In Abingdon it was celebrated with multiple cultural displays including traditional foods and attire. This was emulated in full tradition within Dalton Barracks bringing together both 3 and 4 Regiments to develop cultural awareness of the Ghanaian communities’ customs. 3 Regt prides itself on inclusion and mindfulness and Abingdon station commits to understanding its people and their values, enabling inclusiveness across the station.

Members from 31 Sqn travelled to Thorny Island for adventurous

8 Abingdon Station's Ghanaian Independence Day celebrations training, completing a week of sailing, mountaineering and mountain biking. Most attendees were novices in most disciplines and over the course of the week developed exponentially in confidence as well as skill.

Individuals were making progress by pushing themselves beyond their comfort zone, moving from understanding the basics right through to the advanced level skills which truly tested them on everything they’d learnt. Soldiers developed their perseverance, confidence, and skillset, becoming competent in activities they were new too. Whilst away there was a short hiatus and troops seized the opportunity to visit HMS Queen Elizabeth including a guided tour. It was shortly followed by a visit to the Sub-Aqua Museum, learning about the progression of forces diving equipment and capability dating back to the 19th Century.

The week proved to be developmental and educational which is the exact aim of adventurous training.

Despite disbandment looming, 3 Regt’s personnel have displayed resilience and professionalism, fulfilling a number of operational and readiness commitments. As always, it has been a busy period, but the Regt remains focussed on its people and the development of its ethos, no matter the challenges ahead.

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4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col A Gartside • Adjt: Capt J Critien • RSM: WO1 J Brackenbury Exercises, MACA support, sport, operations and re-subordination… the business of 4 Regiment RLC has continued over the last few months!

Recently back from a near six-month MACA deployment to Wales supporting the Welsh Ambulance Service, 60 CS Squadron QOGLR immediately left 4 Regt to join 13 AA Sp Regt as the newly formed 15 Squadron QOGLR. 4 Regt then welcomed the OC, Maj Andy Edwards, and everyone else that has joined the Regt to form the new 60 CS Sqn RLC. Concurrently, 4 Regt has re-subordinated from 101 Logistic Brigade to 12th Armoured Brigade Combat Team. The new Brigade Commander, Brig Cornwell OBE, visited the Regt at the start of April and all ranks are very much looking forward to joining the ‘Ace of Spades’ and other brigade units on upcoming overseas exercises, operations and other activities over the next few years.

Amongst all the exercises and tasks, the Regt, under the planning and stewardship of 4 Sqn and the gym staff, hosted an inter-squadron boxing competition. Beginning with 68 personnel across the Regt starting training in January, of which 57 had never fought before, each sqn had full squads of motivated novices. Under the watchful eyes of Lt Gen Wardlaw OBE (CDLS), Brig Reehal MBE (Comd 101 OS Bde), Brig Cornwell OBE (Comd 12

ABCT), and WO1 Carney (Army Sergeant Major), the evening saw 10 excellent bouts from the boxers who had earned their place in the finals having fought their way through the preliminary bouts. A tight contest between 4 and 33 Sqn saw 33 Sqn crowned overall champions, with LCpl Ashish Rana collecting the trophy for best squadron on behalf of the 33 Sqn team; and Pte Barlow (33 Sqn) collecting the judge’s award for the best boxer of the night.

A ‘Meet the Army day’ gave an opportunity to show children from the local Abingdon area what the Army and the Regt does. Stands from all sqns and respective Corps Engagement Teams showcased such elements as weapons, command tasks and an introduction to Army physical

8 Cpl Krish Limbu at the 'Meet the Army Day' training. Our engaging soldiers made the day a huge success and despite the rain coming down in the afternoon, everyone went away with huge smiles from an interactive and informative day.

The CO’s Cup competition has seen 33 Sqn take most of the recent success. In addition to winning the inter-squadron boxing, the ‘Beavers’ narrowly beat 60 CS Sqn QOGLR in the march and shoot and pipped 4 Sqn in the hockey, with Lt Henry Willis captaining both teams. The 4 Regt Ladies’ basketball team, became the Army Champions and the Men’s football team walked out the winners of the Army Challenge Cup beating 1 Mercian 3-2 in the final on 4 May 22.

Now personnel from the Regt are preparing to head to Poland to begin the first of a series of training events that will lead to a Composite Logistic Squadron deploying on Op CABRIT in the autumn to support the King’s Royal Hussars Battlegroup. Preparations for the Poland deployment are well underway, with the ISO containers being loaded and final vehicle maintenance being conducted.

8 LCpl Rana and Pte Leddy boxing

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6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DISHFORTH CO: Lt Col A Richardson • Adjt: Capt H Suff • RSM: WO1 M Hickey 6 Regiment RLC has been active, deploying on Op STONESMITH, Op TEMPERER and Ex ASKARI STORM 1/22. There was success on the Sgt to SSgt promotion board for Sgt Jackson, Sgt Maher and Sgt Scott. The Regt continues to dominate in sport with multiple successes, including a first Army Rugby Cap for Pte Pursglove who scored two tries on her debut against the RAF. At the Inter-Regimental Boxing night held at Dishforth, 6 Regt boxers won an 8-3 victory over 27 Regt. The Regt has resubordinated to 7 Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team (The Desert Rats).

Green Rhino Project GREEN RHINO is a 1 UK Div initiative aimed at reducing logistic burden, conserving energy, promoting biodiversity, capturing carbon and collaboration throughout 1 UK Div units. Three initiatives that have really gained traction over the last quarter are the Hedgehog Hotels, which provide safe spaces for our wildlife; tree planting, which increases biodiversity and the ‘Boris Bikes’.

Discarded bikes from across camp are being upscaled and used all across the Regt.

of materiel from Nyati Barracks into the exercise area to support the infantry Battlegroup, the fully deployed and self-sustaining CSS Group conducted its own training serials providing close support.

Throughout, the CSS Group was under the same austere conditions as its infantry counterparts whilst also maintaining the fleet, managing stocks and supplying its dependencies, all while dealing with additional RLS taskings.

Boxing In April, 6 Regt hosted an InterRegimental Boxing night against

Training The Regt is quickly gaining a reputation as the place to go to gain qualifications. This is largely down to the efforts of the Training Officer Capt O’Hagan and his team.

Instructors have delivered ADR, EPLS, RTS, Team Medic, FLRT/Hyster, GPMG and pistol training in an effort to further develop the soldiers, improve readiness for operations and increase competencies.

Ex ASKARI STORM 1/22 64 Sqn deployed to Kenya on Ex ASKARI STORM (AS) 1/22 in January operating as part of the CSS Group. In addition to the wellversed third line logistic movement

8 Pte Toons was awarded bast boxer at the inter-regimental boxing

8 The CSS Group on Ex ASKARI STORM 27 Regt. The evening consisted of 11 excellent bouts that were all fought in a competitive and respectful manner. 6 Regt began the night with four convincing wins for Ptes Mills, Toon, Jones and LCpl Raynor. Pte Toon, (pictured) received the award for the best boxer of the evening in the men’s flyweight category.

Op STONESMITH With much of the Regiment deployed in Kenya on Ex ASKARI STORM 1/22 and preparations already underway for the takeover of the LBSG, life in the Regt was already moving at a fast pace.

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, 6 Regt was stood up as part of the Humanitarian Assistance Task Force (HATF).

The different departments across the Regt put in a herculean effort to rapidly bring two Sqns and the RHQ component to R1(24/48) and full Theatre Entry Standards.

In early March, a sub-unit departed for Marchwood to load the vehicles bound for Poland. Later a force deployed to Lublin Airport to marry up with the fleet and a drive across Poland to form the HATF Pre-Positioned Force, a composite Force including the HCR, 214 Signals, 32 Engr and 6 Regt RLC.

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7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COTTESMORE CO: Lt Col D Groce MBE • Adjt: Capt A Coe • RSM: WO1 D Todd It has been another busy quarter for 7 Regiment RLC, which has seen personnel deploy to locations worldwide on exercise and operations.

The squadrons have been busy developing both trade and soldiering skills. 68 Sqn soldiers have been busy on Ex TOWER TACTICS, focusing on key soldiering skills on a weekly basis. The opportunity works concurrently with being able to keep our soldiers fully trained and verified through the new ITR’s, maintaining the deployability of the Regt.

In May, 9 Sqn deployed on its CT Alpha, Ex TIGER ATTACK, to the Leek and Upper Hulme training area. This followed an ITR week, meaning the soldiers could put their revised skills to the test in a field environment.

Similarly, 617 HQ Sqn deployed on its own CT Alpha, Ex ORZEL FIGHT, in order to test its own soldiering skills in the field.

As well as conducting internal training, 7 Regiment has deployed soldiers in support of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on the gruelling Ex LONG REACH, providing new opportunities for those who deployed.

The Regt has seen significant sporting success this term.

The cricket team starting the season unbeaten after four games, with three members having been selected to represent the Corps team. Capt Capon had success in the Hamble Series Army sailing, finishing second across the Army in a very

competitive field. SSgt Taylor has sustained his fantastic start to the RLC Carp Fishing Competition by following up his first place in January with a third-place finish in May. The football team has continued its success by finishing as the runners up in the Army Sixes, losing out on penalties in the final against a strong 3 RIFLES side. With more tournaments planned, they will be looking to regain some silverware under new management.

Recently, the Nepalese community at 7 Regt organised a Doko Run with the aim of raising money for The Gurkha Welfare Trust and Rutland Air Ambulance.

This saw participants of all ranks racing cross-country with a traditional Nepalese wicker basket, held in place with a head-strap and

8 The 2022 7 Regt Cricket team loaded with 25kg. In total, they raised an exceptional £1,844. This was split evenly between both charities and a huge achievement to all those involved.

The Regiment once again participated in the Commando Speed March in the Scottish Highlands. The team worked hard and put in a fantastic performance yet again at the event.

Op TEAMWORK continues to be a focus, with follow up events already in the pipeline throughout the year.

Many soldiers and officers have actively stepped forward to drive the change that Op TEAMWORK demands; working hard to achieve positive transformation across the unit and broader Kendrew Barracks community.

8 9 Sqn – Ex TIGER ATTACK

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9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULLAVINGTON CO: Lt Col A Bhundia • Adjt: Capt L Brooks • RSM: WO1 C Blackburn 9 Regiment RLC has had a busy start to the year. Concentrating on individual soldiering skills and squadron-level exercises ensured the Regt has not been found wanting when the call came in to deploy on operations in Eastern Europe in addition to the major overseas exercises it is also supporting.

66 Fuel and General Transport Squadron 66 Sqn kicked off the year with the Sqn deploying to Brecon to conduct Soldier First training. This was followed by Ex PHOENIX DEFENDER in February, a trade-based exercise on Salisbury Plain to develop the skills required for successful deployment on Ex DEFENDER 22. Shortly after, it was all hands on deck to prepare the vehicles and equipment for movement overseas via RORO, while also conducting range and MATTs packages in Dartmoor ahead of deployment. This hard work paid off in March when the Sqn successfully deployed to Denmark for Ex DEFENDER 22.

This will see the Sqn operate alongside a host of allied nations, across several countries.

Concurrently, the Petroleum Operators deployed on Ex PHOENIX REFRESH, building the trade skills needed to remain a valuable part of NATO’s VJTF. 84 Medical Supply Squadron 84 Sqn recently deployed on Ex PANTHERS STRIKE, a CT1 exercise where troops had the opportunity to practice their low-level tactics and were refreshed on skills such

as Cam and Concealment, pairs Fire and Manoeuvre and eventually moving up to Section Attacks. The troops were then shown how to occupy a harbour and sustain themselves in the field. Despite a number of challenges being thrown at them, such as their recce groups getting contacted, the troops overcame these with ease. The Sqn finished on a high, with a series of increasingly complex platoon level actions and a big final morning platoon attack.

90 (Headquarters) Squadron It has been a busy and successful return to work for 90 Sqn this spring preparing SP for deployments on Ex DEFENDER 22 and to Eastern Europe. The Unit also saw several SP from the Sqn deploy on Ex LOGISTIC BOARDER to compete in the RLC Snowboarding Championship.

Notable mentions go to Cpl James Tighe who placed first in Boarder Cross and SSgt Matty Wallwork who placed third in Slope Style (and also led the Regimental team throughout). Further success was achieved when 9RLC was placed

8 90 Sqn at the National Arboretum first overall in the Novice Team category – well done!

Following on from Op TEAMWORK, 90 Sqn has conducted regular sqn cohesion days – most recently it conducted a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum, ably led by Sgt Clare Annesley. The visit saw 20 members of the Sqn attend a Remembrance Service before conducting a tour of the Arboretum.

Additionally, a number of JNCOs delivered educational briefs on some of the various monuments dedicated to different Arms and Regiments of the British Army.

94 Squadron QOGLR 94 Supply Squadron had a very busy period prior to Easter break. In January, 94 Sqn deployed on Ex KHUKHURI SHINE, where troops did their MATTs followed by a week of BCS phase relishing the famous Brecon weather.

On 29 Mar, the Colonel of 10 QOGLR visited 9 Regiment RLC. During the visit he updated the Sqn with the new opportunities with the amelioration of QOGLR. After the visit he savoured the delicious food which was cooked by the SQMS department alongside Sgt Ram and his team.

In addition, the Regt said a fond farewell to RSM Douglass and is delighted to welcome RSM Blackburn.

8 The Colonel QOGLR Brig Reehal MBE during his visit to 9 Regt

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10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment ALDERSHOT COMMANDER: Lt Col G R Sugdon • Adjt: Capt R Melhuish • RSM: WO1 R Gurung Since returning from Christmas leave, 10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment has had a busy start to the year. This started with one of its Troop Commanders – Lt Fredrick Dickson – returning from the Survival Nepali Language course. This is a three-month course offered to all Troop/Platoon Commanders within the Brigade of Gurkhas, giving them the opportunity to experience Nepali culture whilst learning the language.

The course itself involves the notorious Doko race and ends with a trek over the hills and mountains of Nepal. The Doko race is a six-kilometer speed march up mountainous terrain carrying a 15kg woven basket with straps across the head and each shoulder. Lt Dickson opted for the Eastern Trek route, visiting the homes of retired Gurkhas and their dependents.

10 QOGLR has continued to deploy on various exercise over the past six months, starting with Ex TRIDENT SOLDIER in late January, where the Regt supported its Reserve Regiment 151 Regt RLC by providing seven soldiers as instructors and playing enemy forces. This was swiftly followed by Ex KHUKURI ISLAND, a Basic Close Combat Skills Exercise conducted by 36 Squadron on the Isle of Wight, utilising Jersey Camp training area. All of this training

8 Brig P Reehal MBE receiving a brief

from RV Tp, 1 Sqn, whilst on Ex KHUKURI ENDEAVOUR

8 Ex KHUKURI ISLAND troop exercise on the Isle of Wright

culminated in the Regimental exercise - Ex KHUKURI ENDEAVOUR; a Collective Training CHARLIE exercise focusing on the construction of a PBFI and operating logistics at reach, with a

weathered eye on the horizon for Op TOSCA that 10 QOGLR deploys on later on this year.

In addition to all these exercises, 28 Squadron deployed for two months on a Military Aid to Civil Authorities (MACA) task to assist the Yorkshire Ambulance Service.

Around 85 personnel were there assisting with general duty ambulance services across the South, East and West of Yorkshire which included a mixture of driving tasking and clinical assistance.

This spring sees the Regt committed to Public Duties over the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, with the Regt providing guard at Buckingham Palace, St James’ Palace, Tower of London and Windsor Castle. It has supported various community engagement exercises, such as Ex WYVERN TOR in May on Dartmoor Training Area.

10 QOGLR was the main effort for the exercise, where over 2,000 young adults were tested both physically and mentally over the terrain on Dartmoor training area.

8 Maj J Sutton addressing Brig P Reehal

MBE and Lt Col G Sugdon on Ex KHUKURI ENDEAVOUR

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11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Regiment RLC DIDCOT CO: Lt Col M Miller • Adjt: Capt R Dunbar • RSM: WO1 S Soper The Ammunition Technical trade benefits from one of the most developed professionalism pathways in The RLC. 11 EOD&S Regiment RLC, as the employer of such a large proportion of the Army’s ATs, is front and centre in supporting its soldiers to gain transferrable qualifications based on the wealth of technical knowledge and expertise gained from trade tasks. This ethos of the continual pursuit of excellence and professional development is engrained across the Regt. This article focusses on two recent personal endeavours: LCpl Krzysztof Skubis from the Close Support Ammunition Detachment (CSAD) Troop in Catterick and SSgt Iain Sutton from Nottingham Troop.

After nearly three years of study, SSgt Sutton – who was selected to attend the Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) programme in 2019 – has only a year left of his learning journey; that has seen a mixture of both in-unit and residential study at the University of Portsmouth. When he completes this course, he will gain a BA(Hons) in Business Leadership and Management and will also be given the opportunity to become a Chartered Manager with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

The Regt actively encourages the local management of its people’s time in a way that balances routine work requirements and operational commitments against personal development opportunities such as this. Equating to approximately one day of dedicated study a week on average, both SSgt Sutton and Nottingham Troop have made a significant time contribution in pursuit of this endeavour, but it has been well worth making. It has exposed him to aspects of management that a SNCO wouldn’t normally experience. This includes accountancy, marketing and project management: developing his overall

understanding of these subjects as both a manager and leader. It has also given the Regt an opportunity to develop and improve itself as several of the modules have involved a critical analysis of the Regiment and has resulted in a number of insightful recommendations to improve the working environment.

SSgt Sutton “This degree apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity to develop my holistic leadership and managerial abilities, while also gaining a degree and professional accreditation. It certainly hasn’t been a simple task, but given that

8 SSgt Sutton enjoying another day in the office

8 LCpl Krzysztof Skubis (left) qualifying

as a Class 2 Ammunition Technician and enrolling on the OMET Level 4 Apprenticeship and Maj Nick Handy (right)

this degree is fully funded, it was an opportunity that couldn’t be missed. It also keeps my Enhanced Learning Credits unused, providing me with the chance to conduct further learning with financial aid from the Army should I wish. I would definitely recommend anyone interested in studying for a degree to visit the CMDA Defence Connect Site as this apprenticeship programme is now being opened up to more and more people.”

Meanwhile, LCpl Skubis completed the Ordnance, Munitions and Explosives (OME) Technician Level 4 Apprenticeship, which he started in June 2021. This is a new apprenticeship that is now open to all Ammunition Technicians upon qualifying as a Class 2 technician.

LCpl Skubis’s course was the first to be able to enrol in the apprenticeship. Due to both his commendable efforts and trade skills – and with credit due to the support he received from his Troop seniors and trade mentors – he has been able to complete the apprenticeship well ahead of schedule. Not only does this make him one of the first people in the Army to gain this qualification, but he has also been nominated for the Army Apprenticeship Award in the advanced category.

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13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER CO: Lt Col R Edwards • Adjt: Capt O Todd • RSM: WO1 G Patterson It has been another busy period for 13 Air Assault Support Regiment, which has seen members from all squadrons deploy on multiple exercises and concurrently prepare for a two-month deployment to North Macedonia to demonstrate force with 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team.

Air Despatch achievements 47 Air Despatch Squadron completed the first Atlas A400M air despatch sortie outside the UK on a nine-hour round mission to Estonia supporting Op CABRIT. The sortie demonstrated successful long-range insertion capabilities and air-land integration. Sgt Rayner and Cpl Eggleton were on the ground as Drop Zone NCOs conducting the recce, setup and co-ordination of the Nurmsi Drop Zone. The squadron also deployed to the Falkland Islands with 47 Squadron RAF on Ex AUSTRAL ENDURANCE to resupply the British Antarctic Survey Team with essential supplies to support its ongoing research.

Dismounted close combat training 82 Air Assault Support Squadron is preparing for its deployment as a dismounted infantry company in August on Ex NOBLE PARTNER, a multinational exercise in Georgia.

This has seen them conduct a Transition to Live Fire Tactical Training package at Lydd and Hythe ranges, including section in defence, IBSR and moving target ranges. Ex NOBLE ERTI in January saw the Sqn deploy as platoons in

8 Lt Soulby and Capt Grieves with Lt Col Edwards after they both recieved the Carmen Sword 50

the dismounted infantry role for the first time. The exercise acted as a remind and revise of the core skills covered during basic training, leading up to a platoon attack on an enemy objective. This lead on to Ex NOBLE ORI, which saw the Platoons conduct OBUA and urban warfare training including building clearance and patrol formations in the urban environment.

Regimental boxing 13 AASR had the pleasure of hosting the new Colonel RLC and Corps Sergeant Major to demonstrate the Regt’s unique capabilities and present LS&GC medals to the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess. They then attended the Inter-Squadron Boxing event. Following two days of preliminary rounds and a final event consisting of 11 bouts; a valiant effort from all boxers, saw the competition convincingly won by 82 AASp Sqn. Short Term Training Teams This quarter has seen two separate STTTs deploy to the Middle East. Ex DESERT WARRIOR was a 16 BCT STTT to Kuwait where nine members of 13 AASR provided RLS to 16 BCT whilst also developing interoperability with the US Army and sharing joint practices on Helicopter Under Slung Loads. The Female Engagement Team

8 Female Engagement Team with the Jordanian Coy Staff

deployed to Jordan once again to reinforce the influence and relationship of 16 BCT with the Jordanian Armed Forces. This time four instructors worked at the Jordanian Royal Military Academy where the first all-female company of 53 Officer Cadets are currently completing the Future Knights Commissioning Course.

Swimming success Following on from the Regt’s success at the RLC Swimming Championships, Lt Firth went on to represent the Corps winning all of her events and helping the RLC ladies’ team to win the overall title for the first time in over a decade.

The Worshipful Company of Carmen Award 63 AASp Sqn had two winners of the Carmen Sword for the ‘Best Junior Officer’ in the Corps. Lt Grieves received the 2020 award for her actions during Op RESCRIPT locating and distributing life-saving ventilators in support of the NHS. Lt Soulby received the 2021 award for his leadership and professionalism whilst deployed on Op PITTING during the unprecedented humanitarian air evacuation from Afghanistan.

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17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTHAMPTON CO: Lt Col V Crompton MBE • Adjt: Capt N Brown • RSM: WO1 B Sweeney 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC has seen a huge increase activity during the spring and early summer of 2022. In line with global events, the team at 17 P&M Regt has supported the outload of vast quantities of kit and equipment whilst also continuing its pursuit of sporting excellence with a record number of SP being called up to play Army level sports and the regimental teams competing across several sports.

All this is set against a backdrop of further preparation and delivery of the Falklands War 40th Anniversary celebrations, readiness commitments and the deployment of Port Task Groups around the world.

Ex COLD RESPONSE Consistent with its global commitments, the Regt has returned to a home-from-home aboard the RFA Mounts Bay. Primarily a troop carrier and cargo ship, it was used as a staging point for some 385 Royal Marine and Army Commando personnel engaged in Ex COLD RESPONSE; the Amphibious Arctic Warfare exercise held in Norway.

25 RLC and REME personnel, led

by Lt Farndale RLC, augmented the

8 The MEXE, CSB and LCU return to RFA Mounts Bay

Ship’s Company, enhancing and adding to its capabilities. Key to the success of the exercise were the two sections of Port Operators under the guidance of Sgt Milham.

Putting their unique trade skills to the test, they ensured that that the discharge of hundreds of tonnes of vehicles and equipment was made possible in a safe, efficient and timely manner.

A demonstration of Army Maritime capability was forthcoming when the MEXEFLOTE (MEXE) deployed 70 tonnes of vehicles and stores to a beachhead supported by the Combat Support Boat (CSB). Able to self-sustain and remain on the beach day and night, Army Mariner Class 1 Cpl Keogh and his crew ensured that training and familiarisation opportunities were available to their amphibious brethren.

Dogged by the climate and extreme sea and weather, the six-week exercise was replete with challenges, but having returned to the UK, all are looking forward to the future amphibious and port tasks in the coming months.

Marchwood community projects As we emerge from what has seemed like two years of winter, Sgts Sellen and Pothecary have led soldiers from 53 Sqn re-engaging with the local community across a series of schemes and projects.

8 17 P&M personnel built allotments at a local school

These have included: building a new allotment space at the local primary school, regenerating the Regt’s memorial garden and creating a new ‘Regt'l Greenspace’ where soldiers can grow their own crops and have some of their own outdoor space to socialise in.

These projects are only achievable with the hard work of the Regt’s SP, volunteering their own time and energy. Their efforts have supported the mental wellbeing of 17 Regt’s soldiers, whilst reinvigorating its partnership with the local community.

Ex SEAHORSE INCREMENTUM 22 The Regt'l Driver Training Wing led a 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade driver concentration period, held over five weeks on Salisbury Plain training area.

This training package took Combat Logisticians one step further in their employment groups, training them to become qualified drivers/operators.

The evolution and continuous improvement of this exercise has vastly increased the employability of the newest soldiers in the Brigade, whilst providing them with an insight into their future as Logisticians in a modern warfighting environment.

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25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LECONFIELD CO: Lt Col R Amor • Adjt: Capt C Woods • RSM: WO1 T Rennie

Since the start of 2022, 25 Regiment RLC has been engaged in numerous extra-curricular activities, competed in a variety of sporting events and been involved in important community engagement days.

A keen historian, Cpl Marsh of 110 Trg Sqn has worked hard to organise several interesting educational visits over the past few months. A group of 10 trainees conducted a battlefield tour of numerous World War 2 sites in East Yorkshire, visiting air strips and defensive positions used in the Battle of Britain and Operation MARKET GARDEN. A large group also attended the Royal Armoury in Leeds where trainees undertook a guided tour, looking at historical weapons dating from the Middle Ages. In small groups, the trainees conducted research and planned presentations on a topic of their choice. 2Lt Pavlopoulos has taken the lead on facilitating CPD discussions for permanent staff on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, resulting in some engaging debates. This has kept all those in attendance up to date with current affairs and, amongst other things, has offered the chance to develop thinking and understanding of modern-day logistic issues and tactics.

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8 Trainees visted WW2 airfield during their Battlefield Tour

8 Four 25 Regt ITTTs finished in the top 10 at the Military League North orienteering

Local community engagement is a large part of the 25 Regt ethos.

Both 110 Trg Sqn and 109 Trg Sqn have an ongoing commitment to support the Plant a Tree Today (PATT) foundation. Several groups have gone out to the East Hull area and planted 2,200+ trees. Part of the project involved collaborating with tri-service military veterans to provide them with social and emotional support. The training wing has been progressively developing the continuation training programme that is delivered to the trainees to provide the highest possible value within resources. This included adjusting the BCCS training to cater to the requirements and knowledge gaps of the trainees. Section Commanders conducted night

navigation practice and lessons covering basic field skills. Once the foundations were secured, the trainees took part in an ambush and a three-hour platoon attack on four enemy positions.

Cpl Bolton and Cpl Marsh led an orienteering team of six ITTTs in the Military League North competition.

The Regt had four of the participants finish amongst the top 10. A great result for what was their first orienteering competition.

Elsewhere in the Regt, as the CO’s Cup draws to a close, the Sqns have competed in a Gun Run and Duathlon. The 25 Regt HQ team claimed the victory for the Gun Run, whilst the 110 Trg Sqn Permanent Staff team won the Duathlon with Cpl Devaney being the individual winner completing a 2km run 10km cycle – 2km run in under 32 minutes. In other sport, Cpl Ranatora has developed the confidence and ability of private soldiers on the Rugby pitch by conducting regular training sessions. He took a team to a Midlands touch rugby competition where they emerged victorious, as well as being finalists in the RLC RUFC Briggs Cup.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col B Reehal • Adjt: Capt A Heathwaite • RSM: WO1 R Simpson February saw the rapid deployment of personnel from 27 Regiment RLC on Op IRON SURGE. This was the movement of armour from Sennelager Camp in West Germany to Tapa Camp in Estonia. Spearheaded by personnel from 19 Tank Transporter Squadron, the Sqn drove over 2,000km in seven days.

Many of the soldiers that deployed were newly qualified and this was an amazing opportunity to not only put their newfound trade skills into action, but also to push their limits as soldiers.

At Sennelager’s Athlone Barracks, the trucks were prepped for their eventual loads. During this time the plan was made and delivered. Once the loads were on and the vehicles Bio Washed for their eventual entry into Poland, the Sqn was able to set off. In each of the countries transited there were different escorts, from multiple packets with personal escort vehicles to one massive convoy being led by the police. Being able to adapt to this meant command and control at each stage was tested.

Military Police assistance helped the Sqn to avoid many traffic jams and get through each country as smoothly as possible. The interoperability of NATO countries also made it a lot easier for the convoy to avoid potential obstacles.

Overall, the experience was beneficial for all involved, weather it was learning new skills, operating in new environments or working with the host countries. As an Army we talk a lot about Eastern Europe and for many it was a key experience to be able to really understand the ground and the climate they may have to operate in, in the future.

Ex TIGER WOLF SLALOM

By Lt Parry, 19 Sqn On 4 Mar 22, 23 Service Personnel from across 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade departed to Val Thorens, France, to earn their SF1 or SF2 qualification. For many of

them, this was their first experience of Adventure Training overseas and the first time some had seen snow.

All of them were excited about the prospect. The trip was broken down into groups of ability, those who had never skied before were in SF1 group. The remainder all had skiing experience so were able to achieve their SF2 qualification.

Ski Foundation 1 course: The SF1 course had an easy start with an introduction to sliding, ploughing and turning on the magic carpet at the bottom of the green slope. Monday saw the students’ progress from a plough turn to a plough parallel turn, giving them the confidence to attack a green slope. From Tuesday through to Thursday, skills were refined as

8 A MET is being washed down before we set off on the journey

8 Pte McLauglin helping marshal a CRAAV onto the Back of a HET

confidence gained for those in the SF1 groups. Naturally, for some this came quicker than others, but by the end of the week students were able to tackle a blue slope with considerable ease and an improved ratio of time spent vertically to horizontally.

Ski Foundation 2 course: It was a sore start for many, but we were back on the slopes completing drills to refine our skiing technique and develop confidence.

This continued through Tuesday and Wednesday where we continued to attack the blue slopes and then take on the red slopes of the resort. Thursday consisted of the long-awaited ski touring afternoon after a morning of avalanche training. Friday was a free ski day for all students, but the visibility significantly impacted the success of this due to many of the lifts being closed.

After six months of planning, I was relieved that the pressure was finally off and the expedition had been a success. Organising such an expedition was truly rewarding in the knowledge and skills I learnt from it, as well as the satisfaction in seeing soldiers enjoy themselves whilst participating in AT abroad.

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29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTH CERNEY CO: Lt Col J Symons • Adjt: Capt N Subba-Row • RSM: WO1 A Burrell Falklands War 40th Anniversary Association Dinner 2 Apr 22 was the 40th Anniversary of the start of the Falklands War. The occasion was recognised at a commemorative dinner held in the Officers’ Mess of 29 Regt in South Cerney. In 1982, 29 Regiment Royal Corps of Transport was the driving force behind the deployment of the UK Taskforce on Op CORPORATE and was home to both Air Despatchers and Movement Controllers: The Postal and Courier Operators of today’s Regt were then part of the Royal Engineers.

The dinner night saw serving Officers and Warrant Officers of the Regt host 40 retired and serving members of the Air Despatch, Postal Courier and Movement Control Associations that were involved in Op CORPORATE. Maj (Retd) Ron Cockings MBE was the OC of 59 Movement Control Sqn and deployed to the Falklands; he gave a detailed account of the challenges of requisitioning civilian shipping to compliment the RN and RFA vessels. Lt Col Kev Bingham spoke for the Posties and explained how mail was hooked onto the back of C-130s returning from Air Despatch sorties, which meant a wait of only six days from a deployed soldier writing a ‘bluey’, to their loved ones in the UK receiving it. Retired WO1s Pete Edgington and Jack Barnett were Air Despatchers of 47 AD Sqn (then a sub-Unit of 29 Regt) and delivered over 250 sorties, including the longest ever recorded, at over 26 hours. This made for a truly unique occasion, with real-life accounts of the delivery of these core trades under the most demanding of conditions.

Ex DEFENDER preparations NATO’s Ex DEFENDER is a recurring, large-scale multi-national training and posturing exercise.

This year’s exercise will be centred on Poland and is expected to involve around 18,000 troops from 20 countries, including the UK. 54

Following orders from 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade in early 2022, 29 RLC started the preparation by deploying Movement Controllers (Mov Con) and Postal Courier Operators (PC Ops). 99 Sqn conducted a CT A/B exercise (CENTURION SPRING) over a two-week period in March. It gave the opportunity to sweep up on all MATTS, MCCP checks and trade training for both Mov Cons and PC Ops. The Mov Cons were given the opportunities to review their Government Authorised Explosives Rep (GAER) qualifications at the Sea Mounting Centre in Marchwood, familiarise themselves with rail moves and complete the Basic User LogFAS course.

Under WO2 Caveill, the PC Ops were brought up to speed on the running of deployed Forces Post Offices in the Regt’s Postal Training suite, which replicates the postal technical equipment found in a live overseas FPO. More to follow as DEFENDER 22 goes live in May, with 32 personnel from 29 RLC deploying across Denmark, Poland and Germany as part of 104 Bde’s Theatre Enabling Group.

Army Rugby Union VASE Q/F: 1 LANCS V 29 RLC The proverbial game of two halves, saw 1LANCS coming fast out of the blocks. Within the first 20

8 Serving members of 29 Regt with Op CORPORATE veterans at the Falklands 40 dinner minutes, 1LANCS had run-in four tries; with 29 RLC’s three-point reply, it was looking to be a long day for the visitors. Some ‘gentle encouragement’ from the team Captain (WO2 (SSM) Corderoy), 29RLC came into the second half transformed. Five tries in quick succession quickly put the belief back in the team. An outstanding turnaround saw 29 Regt 38-3 down at half-time but winning 38-39 – living proof that it isn’t over until the final whistle.

29 Regt went on to win the Semi-Final vs 22 Regt RE 50-19 in a tough physical game. Go Centurions!

8 Rugby kit lays ready for 29 Regt's

victorious ARFU Vase semi-final team

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

The Defence EOD, Munitions and Search Training Regt BICESTER CO: Lt Col M Long QGM • Adjt: Capt C Parsons • RSM: WO1 Tom Kowalewski RE The most important element of the training team at DEMS Training Regiment is its people.

The instructor’s ability to bring the best out of their students and to keep up to date with the latest techniques available to them, is of paramount importance.

Luckily, the Regt operates within the Royal School of Military Engineering (RSME) group and therefore has a large allocation of resources available to it, which allows the Regt to keep on the cusp of leading industry techniques and equipment. This was the focus of the latest Trainer Development Day organised by Search Squadron.

The day brought together members of the four training sqns at DEMS Trg Regt as well as SMEs, stake holders and training development cells from across the Group. There was an update on the Regt’s Training Transformation program which focuses on high performance coaching, mentoring and techniques, highlighting areas for improvement and cross pollination between delivery squadrons to get the best results from the students. The use of virtual reality to build a realistic training environment was discussed with demonstrations from the Royal Engineer Warfare Wing of its RivR classroom in a box equipment, which is already in use within RSME and could be used in DEMS

in the future. Innovative tech solutions within the search environment were also discussed and a demo from Lecia Geosystems showcased the benefits of surveying using 3D solutions to capture accurate imagery and data on an area of interest.

Culture and instructor ethos were also discussed at length, the student experience is a key metric covered in all post course reviews and even if the student is not successful, the experience of DEMS and the course should be a positive one. Instructional techniques and understanding the human factor in all elements of the instructor student relationship is key.

Presenters from Mid Kent College Training delivered a compelling brief on blending learning solutions

8 A student on assessment at DEMS Training Regiment

to enhance the trainee experience.

These presentations led into syndicate activity where members from each sqn at every rank level discussed how the Regt can improve and what it already does well. This cross-regiment discussion meant that every sqn could benefit from tried and tested methods and techniques. Every course is different, but the techniques needed to get information across accurately and successfully to students are similar, if not the same.

A curry supper and evening expo from the tech companies provided a relaxed evening to socialise and swap ideas after a busy term.

Following Easter leave, regimental personnel embarked on visits to Sweden and Kenya as the Regt continues to build relationships with other EOD and Search partners around the world. Courses will continue as the threat of explosive ordnance continues to impact on operations around the world and DEMS Training Regiment stands ready and prepared to meet that challenge and train the next generation of EOD and Search Officers and Soldiers.

8 A 3D printer showing training aids to instructors at DEMS Training Regiment

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150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL CO: Lt Col D Aspin • Adjt: Capt A Ellis • RSM: WO1 B Stephenson The last quarter has truly epitomised “the offer” with personnel from across 150 Regiment RLC taking up various opportunities to represent the Regt and Corps in sport and compete for their sub units in the regimental competition, the Marshall Trophy.

It has also seen personnel, both regular and reserve, strive for victory in the Wagoner’s Challenge, participate in a multitude of core military and trade training, as well as host everyone from the GOC 1 UK Division to local agencies. From the use of a mobile driving simulator owned by Clipper Logistics to a visit to the Red Arrows at RAF Scampton; the links to civilian employers have yet again benefitted the wider Regt and enabled retention positive, interesting activities.

March saw the culmination of the Regt’s Marshall Trophy, which with one event remaining, was too close to call. The final event was a hardfought shooting competition on the ranges and was won by 219 Squadron, with the overall trophy being taken home by 216 (Tynemouth) Squadron.

April saw personnel take part in the inaugural Ex WAGON CHALLENGE, recognising the Corps’ heritage as a unique military skills competition designed to replicate the lived experience of a Wagoner from WW1. This challenge saw the

8 The netball team after taking part in the RLC inter-unit competition

8 A member of 217 Sqn using the Clipper Logistics driving simulator

Regt compete against other units at Sledmere House near Driffield in East Yorkshire. There were nine events in total which included a tug of war, a bale challenge and wagon

run… A bit different from the Role Fitness Test! After a tremendous effort the team ended the day with a top 10 finish.

Also in April the regimental netball team competed in the RLC inter-unit competition. It proved to be a steep learning curve for four members of the team who stepped out onto the court having never played netball before. Despite this the team rose to the challenge and finished in a very respectable fourth place.

523 HQ Sqn was recently visited

by Army Veteran Ray, who gave his thanks to those that helped him, after he became seriously ill during the Remembrance Parade last year. RHQ and 523 HQ Sqn were pleased to host Ray and his family as he thanked members of the Army Reserve and our public service colleagues from Humberside Police, Yorkshire Ambulance Service, and St John’s Ambulance, who all provided assistance on the day. CO’s coins were presented to recognise the exceptional professionalism and teamwork that was demonstrated by all of those involved.

8 Members of 216 Sqn after winning the Marshall Trophy

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CROYDON CO: Lt Col E Lewis • Adjt: Capt O Roberts • RSM: WO1 B Hinton 2022 kicked off with 151 Regiment RLC seeing two new key role changes. First and foremost, Lt Col Ed Lewis, took over from Lt Col Debs Taylor as the new Commanding Officer having stepped up from being a previous Regimental Second in Command.

And secondly, Major Noel Sheeran has taken over command of 210 Squadron. The Regt welcomes you both and looks forward to working with you.

Another typically busy period for the Regt has seen several training weekends take place, including Ex TRIDENT RECRUIT I. The exercise saw the dawn of a new era of training for the recruits who are in various stages of the CMS(R)21 pipeline. Staff conducted revision and interest lessons specifically tailored to recruit level and the training was conducted alongside Ex TRIDENT SOLDIER III, which enabled the recruits to see what an exercise for fully trained soldiers was like. The Regt is looking forward to more, highly successful TRIDENT exercise weekends throughout the year.

In February, the Regt participated in the Army-wide Op TEAMWORK, which included a deeply insightful day at the Union Jack Club, where there was discussion covering a number of thought-provoking topics. February also saw the Regt

participate in new RFT Bootcamps at St Omer Bks. Regimental Soldiers and Officers were put through their paces with a runthrough of all aspects of the RFT. The team of regimental PTIs advised on best techniques, how to prep kit effectively and how best to train for the new RFT. But it’s not all work. In March, 151 Regt descended on Chamonix, in France, for its annual winter adventurous training, Ex COCKNEY TRIDENT ALPINE, following a twoyear hiatus. Participants were blessed with sun and blue skies that allowed for ideal skiing conditions on well-groomed slopes across the numerous ski resorts in the Chamonix area. Eight personnel from Private to Major gained their

8 Op TOSCA 37 training on the ranges Ski Foundation 1 qualifications, including an attachment from the Regt’s paired regular regiment, 10 QOGLR. The remaining personnel embarked on continuation training to consolidate their existing ski qualifications. We would like to thank the Ulysses Trust and the RLC Association Trust for their generous support.

All of this activity has been in preparation for the regimental personnel’s primary role as Reserve Soldiers, working alongside our Regular counterparts. In support of 10 QOGLR’s deployment on OP TOSCA 37, 562 Sqn’s SPSI (WO2 Poole) delivered three training weekends in support of the Individual Training Requirement (ITR) enabling 101 Op Sust Bde to successfully mobilise seven personnel to deploy to Cyprus alongside 10 QOGLR. Training consisted of the SCR, all the way through to core combat skills elements of the ITR. The key highlight from the training was all personnel significantly improve their ACMT Marksmanship shoot and 100% pass rate at RFT(S), meeting Commander 10 QOGLR’s intent of zero risk with the AR. A great start to the year, which the Regt looks forward to continuing.

8 Ex COCKNEY TRIDENT ALPINE

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152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST CO: Lt Col R T Clements • Adjt: Capt A Gordon • RSM: WO1 M S Macrae The start of the New Year saw some changes within 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC as the Commanding Officer and Regimental Sergeant Major both conducted their hand overs. The Unit bids a fond farewell to Lt Col CJ Sykes TD and WO1 G Furlong and welcomes in Lt Col RT Clements VR and WO1 MS Macrae. The Unit has been focussing on trade skills and green skills, as it looks towards supporting DEFENDER 22.

Op RESCRIPT – Scottish Ambulance Service 152 RLC has maintained consistent support to the Scottish Ambulance Service throughout Op RESCRIPT. Six Reservists from the Regt were mobilised over 4 Feb – 1 Apr 22 to act as ambulance drivers. After the mandatory administration in MRTC Bassingbourn, they undertook two days of Ambulance Service training incorporating various aspects of medical training and ambulance driving.

Although mobilised from one unit, the soldiers were geographically separate, supporting Ambulance Services in Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow, Dunfermline and Edinburgh.

The typical day was a 12-hour shift working alongside a paramedic in the ambulance. Depending on location, calls for support could begin immediately. Tasks varied from benign tasks moving patients between hospitals to life-or-death situations. Incidents the ambulances responded to included: road traffic collisions, cardiac arrest, alcohol and drug use, stroke victims, cliff rescue with the Coastguard and a ski rescue in Glenshee. The workload was four to five patients per shift, and they conducted three to four shifts per week. On average, our mobilised Reservists completed 24 12-hours shifts over a twomonth period.

The Scottish Ambulance Service could not have been more 58

welcoming to the Army and the Service Personnel from 152 Regt.

All those who mobilised feel they made a difference in helping the people of Scotland and have a real sense of pride at their accomplishments.

Regimental Operational Shooting Competition 152 Regt prides itself on the high-quality shooting teams and the commitment to shooting from the soldiers in the Regt. The Regimental Operational Shooting Competition (ROSC) is a large event in the Unit’s calendar. Taking place on the ranges of Ballykinler, during an un-seasonally warm March in Northern Ireland, three squadrons competed for the best team and best overall shot.

400 (Petroleum) Squadron were the best overall team. The best shot went to WO2 Hamilton, also of 400 Sqn. The future looks strong for the Regimental Shooting Team, with seven new B Class shots identified for future mentoring and coaching.

The shooting team is looking forward to testing its skills at Bisley this year.

Community engagement 152 Regt conducted a demonstration of the Unit’s

8 Hon Col Millar and CO Lt Col CJ Sykes TD at the 152 Capability Day

capability during a visitors’ day in Magilligan Training Centre. The Unit hosted our Honorary Colonel Alison Millar, the Lord Lieutenant of Londonderry, along with thirteen Deputy-Lord Lieutenants and Paula McIntyre MBE, who is High Sheriff for the County of Londonderry and a notable chef within Northern Ireland. It was a chance to demonstrate the bespoke nature of the Bulk Fuel Installations as well as the Close Support Tankers and Unit Support Tankers used to transport the fuel.

Furthermore, all were mightily impressed by the abilities of the Unit's chefs to cook in austere conditions and Paula McIntyre was most taken with the versatility of an Army field kitchen.

WO2 McClements and Cpl Kavanagh were awarded their Lord Lieutenant certificates at Hillsborough Castle. WO2 McClements was awarded for his 34 years of Reserve service and support to charities including MacMillan Cancer and Combat Stress. Cpl Cavanagh was awarded for 24 years Reserve Service that includes two operational deployments to Iraq and Cyprus.

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RESERVE UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DUNFERMLINE CO: Lt Col S Johnson MBE • Adjt: Capt F Blair • RSM: WO1 W Marquis As part of Op RESCRIPT, 10 SP from 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC mobilised on a MACA task to support the Scottish Ambulance Service. This makes 22 Reservists in total mobilising in support of this operation over the last two years. The SP worked out of HMS Dalriada for two months, not only driving ambulances and helping to cater for the ambulance staff, but they also received first aid training as first responders. All the SP worked incredibly hard to support the Scottish Ambulance Service during this incredibly busy time.

Of note, Pte Roberts received a Commendation from Commander 51 Bde for all her efforts.

The Regt recently hosted both the Commander and Deputy Commander of 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade. Brig Patch Reehal MBE joined the Regt for its Special to Arms training weekend.

During the weekend, SP took part in trade specific training and they also had the opportunity to practice safe driving skills (in Land Rover, FLRT and Support Vehicle), as part of the CO’s Sword competition. Col Simpson visited the Unit for the final MATTs weekend of the last training year, where our SP completed CBRN training and LF4.

Congratulations to Capt Macnab MBE VR who received his MBE at The Palace of Holyroodhouse from HRH The Princess Royal, and also to Sgt Clark who received the third Clasp to his VRSM on his last day in service after 35 years as a Reservist.

8 Ex MUDMASTER is open to land Rovers, trucks and motorcycles

Paragliding AT (to become a coach), Tayforth Summer Camp and various weekends (especially looking out for the CO’s sword events where squadrons compete to be the best!).

“My future plans are to attend the regular Commissioning Course in September 2023 and commission into The RLC. In my experience it has been very worthwhile to join a reserve unit and immerse myself into reserve life. The skills, people I have met and life experience I have gained are invaluable, giving me greater clarity on my career prospects. I am extremely grateful to everyone who has helped me in my journey.”

8 Capt Macnab with his MBE Perspective from OCdt Laurie (251 Sqn) “I joined the OTC and then transferred to the Reserves as a solider. I later passed AOSB and I am now an Officer Cadet. This is a brief insight into my journey.

“I was part of Tayforth OTC then transferred to 154 Regiment RLC, with the intention of commissioning into The RLC. By joining 154 Regt I aimed to gain experience of the Regimental way of life.

“Since transferring to 154 Regt I have completed a consolidated Module Bravo and Basic Training Delta; allowing me to be Phase One trained. I have also participated in a battlefield study in Culloden, Ex MUDMASTER, the RLC Military Skills Competition (supporting the team) and many other weekends. This gave me the confidence, personal development and knowledge to best prepare for Main Board. My experience with 154 Regt, while still being attached to Tayforth, has resulted in me attending Winter Camp, further developing my officer training. This all aided in passing Main Board in February 2022.

“This summer I am going to complete my C + E (further developing my driver training), the Nijmegen Marches in Holland,

Ex MUDMASTER 2022 The Regt will be organising Ex MUDMASTER, the most northerly round of the Inter-Services Driving & Navigation Championship on 29-30 Oct 22 in Scotland. Last year’s event saw over 100 vehicles take part and the event is open to Land Rovers, trucks and motorcycles.

For further information please visit the British Army Motorsports Association website at: http://www.armymotorsports.co.uk/ Disciplines/4x4-Navigation

8 OCdt Laurie

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156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL CO: Lt Col T Steed • Adjt: Capt A Maclaverty • RSM: WO1 R Thomas 156 Regiment RLC spent the last quarter of training year 2021/22 concentrating on certificate of efficiency completion; completing a myriad of MATT packages, ACMT weekends and physical fitness events in order to increase the overall deployability of the Regt. In the last three months, the Regt has seen a myriad of activities ranging from: leadership weekends, Brigade military skills competitions, the Regt’s football progression in the Army Cup, Logistic Specialist (Supply) trade training, a basic close combat skills weekend and a myriad of promotions (Pte – LCpl, WO2 – WO1 and Maj – Lt Col).

The Connaught Shield On Saturday 5 Apr 22, a team from 381 (Lancaster) Squadron represented 156 Regt at the 101 Logistic Brigade Military Skills Competition. The Connaught Shield competition, steeped in over a hundred years of military history, tested their knowledge, fitness, communication and teamwork.

They displayed grit, determination, and experience to complete the various stands; from section attacks, stretcher races and casualty evacuation to command tasks, vehicle recovery and problem solving. Facing fierce competition from 103 Bn REME, the team from 156RLC emerged victorious in the Reserves’ competition. In addition, the team came a very respectable fifth out of nine teams (beating four Regular Army teams) with 10QOGLR coming first. On the back of this success, 156 Regt will be entering a team into both the RLC Military Skills Competition and the Cambrian Patrol in 2022, to build upon these successes.

Ex SAVA STAR 22 The Regt’s main effort for 2022 is the deployment of 120 personnel to Croatia for Exercise SAVA STAR 22.

This is an infantry based exercise, which will see members of 156 Regt embed with the Croatian 60

Armed Forces from 10 – 25 Sep 22.

This will test the Regt’s G1 and G4 chains to ensure the Regt can deploy overseas in good order, but more importantly, it will test the low-level skills and drills of each soldier and officer. Moreover, the training benefit from working alongside a Foreign Armed Force will provide invaluable training benefit for all those involved.

Overseas training expedition – LENANA MASTERS (Kenya) 12 members of 156 Regt will participate in Ex LENANA MASTERS, an overseas adventurous training expedition to Kenya ,which is forecast to take place over 11-22 Jul 22. This will be a high-risk and remote summer mountaineering expedition to climb Mount Kenya over six-days, reaching a maximum altitude of 4,985m at Point Lenanan, third-highest summit of Mount Kenya. This will involve a series of

8 The 156 Regt RLC team on the Connaught Shield with the first place Reserve shield build-up training weekends to ensure that the team is prepared for the arduous environment they will find themselves in while in Kenya and will include navigation and first aid.

Looking forward The Regt has a lot to look forward to for training year 2022/23, with the deployment on Ex SAVA STAR being the pinnacle of the forecast of events in the next 12 months.

However, there is a lot planned in the build-up to deployment; further BCS and trade training weekends, continued preparation for the Role Fitness Tests (RFT) - which replaces the Annual Fitness Tests (AFT) in 2022/23 - numerous adventurous training expeditions and battlefield studies, command visits and military skills competitions.

Members of 156 Regiment conducting basic close combat skills

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157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CARDIFF CO: Lt Col A Briggs • Adjt: Capt J Restell • RSM: WO1 C Jones Luck has been against 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC. In early 2022, despite COVID restrictions easing off, mother nature had other plans. The rarely issued ‘red weather warning’ would be the next thing to result in cancelled training events. However the dedication and enthusiasm of the Regt's remained intact with their continued attendances at squadron level training during this time. The Regt continued to support the local community by providing personnel to drive ambulances in the region, whilst getting those last few reservists across the line to attain their Commanding Officer’s Certificate of Efficiency.

Welsh Ambulance Service Trust – MACA (Jan - Mar 22) On the 19 Jan 22, 10 members of 157 Regt were mobilised to support the already heroic efforts of the British Army as part of Op RESCRIPT in support of the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST).

Once mobilisation and MST were complete, they were then deployed as ambulance drivers covering the South Wales areas, from various ambulance stations in Cardiff, Swansea, Rhondda and Merthyr Vale. LCpl O'Brien (224 Sqn), based in Carmarthen and Haverfordwest, said: “As a Welsh regiment it was great to have the opportunity to give back to the Welsh community and everyone was very receptive of our presence.” The mobilisation has now come to an end but despite the many hours spent queuing

outside hospitals, they all felt profound pride at being able to step up and support the people of South Wales during their worst moments and left with even greater respect for the paramedics working on the front line.

Ex KNEES STRETCH (Mar 22) Following the disappointing news that this year’s RLC Ski Championships would not go ahead, the Regimental Ski Team was excited to deploy to Austria for a training camp. Ex KNEES STRETCH is a 10-day Nordic ski exercise set in the picturesque mountain village of Obertilliach.

The team included both seasoned skiers and complete novices, who were joined by unit teams from across The RLC. The training regime involved both technical lessons and distance sessions to build ski endurance. The final two days were taken up with racing to give novice competitors an idea of what to expect at next year’s RLC Championships. It proved to be an

8 Officers, WOs and SNCOs of 157 (Welsh) Regt RLC at the St David’s Dinner Night

icy course, testing the skills of even the experienced skiers.

Ex STUDIOUS DRAGON (Apr 22) After an unforeseen delay to the original event, the Regt finally celebrated St David’s Day a month late in Maindy Barracks, Cardiff.

The Regt took the opportunity to get together and discuss the changes brought about by the IR, the challenges surrounding the current recruiting space and to present Honours and Awards to five members of the Regt, including an LS&GC, VRSMs and Clasps. On the Saturday evening, the Officers, WOs and SNCOs held a mess kit dinner night in honour of St David (the patron saint of Wales) as well as to say goodbye to our outgoing Commanding Officer, Lt Col B Beaumont who has come to the end of his time in command. A tremendous night was had, with performances by the Band of the Royal Welsh and a ‘black light’ display by the RLC Corps of Drums.

A particular highlight was an impromptu rendition of the Welsh National Anthem sung by our Welsh speakers in honour of the outgoing CO, a very special moment. The Regt wish Lt Col Beaumont all the best in his next posting.

8 The Regimental Ski Team in Obertilliach

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158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH CO: Lt Col R Futter • Adjt: Capt A Hyndman • RSM: WO1 L Hutchinson Luton North MP visits 201 Squadron On the 15 Feb 22, 201 Sqn had the pleasure of hosting the Member of Parliament for Luton North the Rt. Hon. Sarah Owen MP. During the visit Sarah was treated to several demonstrations highlighting the Sqn’s capabilities, its current role within 102 Log Bde and its future role within an aviation support regiment. She enjoyed speaking to the soldiers and took great interest in their experiences within the Army Reserve. At the end of the visit Sarah presented Volunteer Reserve Service Medal (VRSM) awards to three reservists who have shown exceptional loyalty and commitment to the Army Reserve. The recipients were:

LCpl Rebecca Lee LCpl Rebecca Lee, joined the TA in Oct 11 as part of the East Midlands UOTC, sponsored by 158 Regt.

During her time at university as an OCdt. she completed her RMAS Military Leadership Training and graduated with an Honours Degree in Human Bioscience In April 2016, she decided to have a career change to become an RLC Driver and transferred to 203 Tpt Sqn. Pte Lee was selected for promotion to LCpl in 2018, prior to taking a maternity career break. On her return she attended her PNCO cadre, six months after the birth of her daughter and achieved top student. She also received the CO’s Challenge Coin on Ex HALBERD SPIRIT in May 21.

She is an active member of unit competition teams and has become a very proficient alpine skier and an even more proficient marksman 62

earning her place on the regimental shooting team. She is a keen martial arts participant who holds a Karate 3rd Dan Black Belt. In the adventurous training arena, she is a Jump Master Skydiver and a qualified PADI Rescue Diver.

LCpl Lee has shown her commitment to the Army Reserve by ensuring she has remained trade and soldier qualified every year.

LCpl Katie Millman LCpl Katie Millman enlisted into the TA with 254 Field Ambulance on the 1 Sep 04 as an RLC Driver Radio Operator. In Jan 05 she attended her Basic Military Training Syllabus at the Initial Training Group, Grantham where she was awarded the prize of “Best Endeavour”.

In Nov 07 Pte Millman successfully attended and passed her Driver Radio Op Class 3 course. In the following year she attended the 49 (East) Brigade Regional Training Centre and completed her Defence Instructional Techniques Course Pte Millman was selected for promotion to LCpl in 2008 and subsequently attended and passed her Combat Marksmanship Coach and her Physical Training Instructor Basic Course.

In Jun 12 LCpl Millman was mobilised on Op OLYMPICS as part of the security enforcement element during the London Olympics 2012. In May 2021, LCpl Millman requested a transfer to 201 Sqn RLC. During her military service thus far, LCpl Millman has completed some of the most demanding competitions in the Army such as the Cambrian Patrol - receiving a Merit (2005), Team Bronze Medal

(2007) – and the Army Medical Services Tactical Training Exercise.

LCpl Tracy Richards LCpl Tracy Richards enlisted into the TA with the Royal Rifles Volunteers in Jan 01 as a Rifleman/Signaller on special enlistment. On 20 Feb 01 she was attested into the Adjutant Generals Corps as a Military Clerk AGC(SPS) as part of 7 Battalion the Rifles. In Jan 02 she requested a transfer to the RAMC. In Mar 02 she successfully attended and passed her Combat Medical Technician (CMT) Class 3 course held at Keogh Barracks, Aldershot.

Pte Richards was selected for promotion to LCpl in 2010 where she subsequently attended and passed her Combat Medical Technician Class 1 Course at the Defence Medical Services Training Group.

In 2014, E Company, 7 Battalion the Rifles, based out of Milton Keynes was re-cap badged to the AAC, where she remained as an RAMC CMT. As part of the re-role LCpl Richards attended the Army Air Corps Phase 2 Basic Groundcrew Specialist Training course at Middle Wallop.

In 2017, LCpl Richards was the medic on a military expedition to Morocco, which saw 16 serving personnel conducting a Foundation Summer Leaders Course. This consisted of wild camps and trekking in the Toubkal National Park and climbing Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak.

LCpl Richards requested a transfer to 201 (Bedford) Sqn RLC In May 21 and was assigned into the post of Squadron Combat Medic Technician.

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159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COVENTRY CO: Lt Col A Heather • Adjt: Capt K Cahill • RSM: WO1 (RSM) P Whiting With Ex BARBARIAN MOBILITY 1 behind 159 Regiment RLC, the Unit is now ‘jogging on’ with a focus on vehicle convoy anti-ambush drills at speed, camouflage and concealment in a hide and everybody’s favourite…bashering up.

The M6, Canley to Swynnerton, on a Friday night provided additional convoy driving challenges especially for the newer drivers and co-drivers, while the Sqn’s answer to Lewis Hamilton - LCpl Pinnell unwittingly arrived 15 minutes before the convoy, smirk intact.

Swiftly establishing harbour routine under the watchful eyes of LCpl Fleet, the Sqn resubordinated, rested and prepared for the following day.

Breakfast from Operation Ration Packs complete, the next day consisted of a three-stand round robin; Grenade training, SV top cover and PRR functionality and communications. The grenade stand was well received with some of the SP having never thrown one before.

The SV convoy stand delivered confirmatory drills and procedures for conducting top cover in the MAN SV whilst traveling on a supply route; new to some and a reset for others who provided sandbag stories of 15-mile Combat Logistic Patrols with more ammo than the A-Team.

Top cover, poised for the smell of smoke and carbon, rotated as three adrenaline-pumped packets. The second packet providing enemy and the third conducting

8 Ex BARBARIAN MOBILITY 2 vehicle anti-ambush drills

background activities; practicing Advance to Contact, Assault-Supress-Reserve manoeuvres on foot and Fire Control Orders; to ensure that everyone had rounds down and the compulsory dirty weapon system.

As the day’s activities drew to an end, the expected move back to the harbour area became a quick bonnet brief and a last light move to Nesscliffe training area, where we would occupy a fresh harbour area for the night to practice what we had learned through the day.

The 40-mile journey enabled us to practice vehicle spacing at night, following TAC signs and route cards, the basics of any supplier and driver. We also discovered that the range of a PRR would not extend from the front vehicle to the rear, so a link man relay procedure was required for pretty much the duration of the move. Another valuable training experience.

A bright and early start and field admin squared, left time to build vehicle hides, practice cam and concealment, and wonder why there’s not a mallet in the CES, before the visit of RHQ. Word from Army Reservist Pte Pear, 243 HQ Sqn “Overall, a great weekend aligning mobility and combat skills in a supply context. Yes, it was cold to

8 A briefing prior to SV top cover training begin with, but that was soon forgotten when the rounds went down the range and the blood was flowing. The training benefits for some getting hands on with kit we had only seen in the movies was immense. Sleeping under the stars and feasting on ORP being a massive plus point for myself, reinvigorating why I am a reservist and not in front of the TV on a Saturday night watching Strictly Come Dancing.”

Welcome to the family 159 Regt had the pleasure of welcoming two new recruits to 243 HQ Sqn in Jan 22; Ptes Shackles and Law. With Shackles receiving “Best Shot” we clearly have a new member for the Regimental Shooting Team.

ResPO training with Birmingham University Officer Training Corps A number of the Regt’s ResPOs are benefitting from joint training with BUOTC and for Pte Masakovskis life hasn’t stood still after receiving his Top Student accolade during his soldier basic training. Quickly broadening his horizons, he has recently undertaken the MOD B course with BUOTC where he has been testing his skills and leadership from estimate to etiquette.

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162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM CO: Lt Col W Steel MBE • Adjt: Capt W Charley • RSM: WO2 J Copland A few changes have occurred this month at 162 Regiment RLC, with the previous Adjutant, Capt Nick Covington, being deployed at short notice to Poland and WO1 J Parker, the previous RSM posted to 4 Medical Regiment on assignment as the MTO. Capt Wayne Charley now fills the Adjt role before he leaves the Army after 33 years and moves to Australia to join the Australian Defence Force. WO2 Scotty Copland is keeping the RSM’s chair warm until the new RSM arrives in June.

The Sqns continue to be busy supporting operations and continuous training. The Regt is now ramping up to a busy Annual Continuous Training camp which will mainly focus on driver and adventurous training.

280 MC Squadron The Sqn has had three soldiers pass out of Phase 1 training in this quarter. Pte’s J Waldron, H Whiddon and O Sharpe successfully completed their two-week Module 3 course and took part in a Pass Out Parade at ATU(W) in Maindy Barracks, Cardiff on 7 May 22. These soldiers have been completely dedicated in their approach during periods of COVID lockdown and restrictions on face-to-face training, remaining flexible and agile to changing dates and availability.

Their perseverance culminated in a proud day for the soldiers, their families, and the Sqn. The Sqn looks forward to watching them grow in confidence and knowledge during their Army Reserve careers. A special mention must go to Sgt J Bisatt, the Sqn’s ReMSO, for making it his mission to get these soldiers not only loaded to course but trained to the required level to excel and enjoy their time while training. Sgt Bisatt leads by example and with his continued efforts, the Sqn looks forward to seeing more pass out of the recruit cohort and setting them off on their trade development and soldiering journey.

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281 MC Sqn With the introduction of the new Individual Training Requirements (ITR) in Apr 22, 281 MC Sqn looked to get ahead of the game by utilising the dismounted close combat training (DCCT) facility at St George’s Bks, North Luffenham, to develop Sqn personnel’s weapon handling skills and knowledge. The majority of the Sqn has limited experience firing at any distance greater than 25m and so the requirement to pass an ACMT in order to qualify for their Certificate of Efficiency is a big step change.

The DCCT allowed everyone to hone their fire positions, refresh the marksmanship principles, as well as being able to run through the individual shoots that they will encounter later in the year.

282 Sqn: Ex ASKARI STORM

by LCpl C Lethbridge I recently had the opportunity to assist 29 Regt RLC on Ex ASKARI STORM in Kenya for four weeks in my role as a Class 2 Movement Operator. Upon arriving at BATUK, Nyati Barracks (Nanyuki) I went straight to work assisting the Battlegroup getting ready to leave Kenya. My main duties were assisting with the packing of ISO containers for Air and Sea; also checking that the correct paperwork was completed by the

8 280 Sqn New Recruits - Pte O Sharpe, Pte J Whiddon and Pte H Waldron

departing Units. My other duties included working at JKIA (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) and assisting with the loading of military personnel onto flights back to the UK. Even though it was busy, I still got to enjoy the culture of Kenya; getting time to walk around the town of Nanyuki and meeting some of the locals, going on Safari and walking up Mount Kenya. I enjoyed every minute of this deployment as a reservist, this was an amazing opportunity to use my trade skills and knowledge whilst also seeing an amazing part of the world.

8 LCpl C Lethbridge - at the equator while on Ex ASKARI STORM

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165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC PLYMOUTH CO: Lt Col R Williams • Adjt: Capt L Hunter • RSM: WO1 Liguari

104 Brigade Command Board (RFA Mounts Bay) In February 165 P&M Regiment RLC hosted 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade’s quarterly management board. This was combined with an insight of Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Mounts Bay. Mounts Bay is a Landing Ship Dock Auxiliary (LSDA) central to the provision of port and maritime capability. It can carry a Mexeflote on each side, a Landing Craft Utility in the back and has a Chinook capable landing platform.

The Management Board was incredibly well supported by the ship and her crew. They also treated the Bde to an incredible dinner night in the Officers’ Wardroom with Commodore RFA as the principle guest.

Ex MULBERRY LEADER The Regt was hugely privileged to hold the Mulberry Leader development weekend in Beckett House, at the Defence Academy, Shrivenham. Thanks go to our Padre (Rev Andy Earl) for securing the incredible venue. This saw Officers and SNCOs within the Regt cover a wide range of topics such as the Orders and Estimate process, the Regt’s role within the Bde and warfighting at scale.

Padre Anthony Feltham-White, delivered an insightful presentation on leadership and resilience within the Army. It was the first opportunity Officers and SNCO have had to get together this year, so was an excellent opportunity to hold a dinner night.

Ex WYVERN TIGER SNOW - Skiing Over the period 13-20 Mar 22 members of the Regt deployed to Sestriere, Italy. The group, consisting of Regular and Reserve, Pte to Maj conducted SF1 & SF2 ski training. The Regt was delighted to have SSgt Katie Parker-Morrow from the Defence Courier Service who instructed the beginners group. Capt Tim Squire and Sgt Bailey also instructed. The adventurous training was excellent, the skiing was challenging, there was some excellent snow and some of the days did push people outside of their comfort zones.

There was huge progress in people’s skiing ability with Ptes Gamble, Homan and Blundel finishing the week on black runs.

2Lt Karenza Bryson - Modern Pentathlon World Cup athlete 2Lt Karenza Bryson has been with the Regt for almost a year since completing the Reserve Commissioning Course at RMAS. Since then she has taken over the role of Troop Commander within 265 Squadron, however it's what she does outside of her Army Reserve role which is truly impressive. 2Lt Bryson is one of the world's best

8 2Lt Bryson GB Modern Pentathlon

8 Ex MULBERRY LEADER Dinner Night Modern Pentathlon athletes, having proved this during a strong start to this year's competition season. She placed first in a UK national event in January which then propelled her to an incredible eighth place in the Modern Pentathlon World Cup event held in Cairo in March. What is most remarkable is that 2Lt Bryson has achieved all this whilst studying full time for a medical degree. She is now turning her focus to training for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

RSM handover The Regt said a sad farewell to WO1 (RSM) Ware who hands over his role after two years in post. He has made a huge impact and worked over the past two years to improve the lived experience of personnel within the Regt. WO1 Ware is leaving the Army after completing a full career. The Regt thanked him for his service and welcomed WO1 (RSM) Liguari, who took over in April.

Looking forward Looking forward, the Regt is now preparing for its Annual Training Camp in October which will be held in Cyprus. This will see the Regt come together with other units from 104 Bde and the wider Army, to test the Theatre Enabling Group's ability to operate in a new and challenging environment. This looks to be a really good exercise and a great opportunity for the Unit's reserve soldiers and officers to deploy overseas to train.

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167 Catering Support Regiment RLC GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col M Dyos • Adjt: Capt S W D Parry • RSM: WO1 P Jordan 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC’s sights are firmly set on supporting Ex DEFENDER 2022; with all three squadrons delivering catering support throughout. The world of catering offers little respite as whilst the Squadrons are deployed with the Theatre Enabling Group, the RoG is preparing for Ex ARMY SUSTAINER. The Regt continues to run trade courses, recently completing the popular chocolate skills course ahead of Easter, with another course running in June. In between that the Regt is running Chef Class One and Two courses so there is plenty for units to get involved with.

Ex NORMANDY SCHOLAR 26 personnel recently returned from Ex NORMANDY SCHOLAR, where they studied the logistic support delivered during Op OVERLORD in 1944. The context was pitched against the Regt’s role within the Theatre Enabling Group ahead of deploying on Ex DEFENDER 22.

There was emphasis on the role that the leadership code played in the success of the operation along with how mission command was executed at the lowest level.

During a visit to the Bayeux War Cemetery to pay respects to those that gave the ultimate sacrifice, a rose was laid on behalf of the Quartermaster who lost her Great Uncle in this campaign. The Quartermaster played a huge part in getting the battlefield study to fruition but was sadly unable to attend.

The culmination of the Regimental battlefield study included the British and French forces landing at Sword Beach, a visit to the Hillman strong point explored the repercussions of not clearing this objective in the stated timeline.

Ex JOINT CATERER – 15-16 Mar 22 Birmingham Ex JOINT CATERER is the Armed Forces’ Open Cookery Championships which is held at the 66

8 Exercise NORMANDY SCHOLAR National Exhibition Centre as part of a wider Public Sector Catering Expo. The prestigious competition offers the platform to demonstrate that 167 Regiment is an industry leader with top class military and civilian caterers.

The competition is also a great PR and marketing opportunity, which enhances and supports recruiting strategy. Congratulations go to Cpl Bennion who gained a Bronze medal for a plated sustainable fish dish and Gold Best in Class for LCpl Stewart’s plated vegan dish.

Ex ARMY SUSTAINER – 10 Sep 22 Grantham Ex ARMY SUSTAINER remains the only Army-level field catering and culinary arts competition providing the perfect platform to showcase and recognise catering talent across the Regular and Reserve Chef trade. The intent for this year’s event is to make it tri-service and Multinational with the inclusion of our NATO allies. The 2021 competition saw Industry Partners and personnel from the Royal Air Force take part.

The exercise serves as a fantastic platform to develop new talent, train field skills and highlight potential new British Army Culinary Arts Team competitors, opening up

opportunities to represent the Army team at Ex JOINT CATERER and the Hotel, Restaurant and Catering Show. In turn this can result in potential selection for the prestigious Combined Services Culinary Arts team which competes in catering competitions worldwide.

Throughout the event there were live-demonstrations of winning recipes from the ‘Army EATS Cooking Challenge’ in which soldiers of all cap-badges and trades have been competing to design healthy, economical recipes to be cooked in the single-living accommodation or at home.

Want to enter? Contact: Glen.Stones233@mod.gov.uk

8 Congratulations goes to Cpl Bennion who gained a Bronze medal for his plated sustainable fish dish and Gold Best in Class for LCpl Stewart’s plated vegan dish

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2 Operational Support Group RLC (2OSG) GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col A Chambers • 2IC: Maj J Bastin • RSM: WO1 Allison The end of the training year saw members of 2 Operational Support Group working as hard as ever. With another successful Annual Continuous Training (ACT) period in February, the training year ended with a good proportion of the Unit achieving their Certificate of Efficiency, a testimony to the hard and work and dedication of both the training team and the Unit's reservists. As training continues into the new training year, the Unit has reformed its regime to fit the roll out of the Individual Training Requirement (ITR).

The training team has broken down the new training requirement into bitesize chunks and the Group was able to run a successful Role Fitness Test which had our personnel fully engaged and adapting well to the new standards. Maj Browne and Maj Wilson (the most senior representatives of the Unit) proving there’s still life in the old dogs yet.

Ex DEFENDER 22 Exercise DEFENDER 22 continues to be the Unit’s main effort and 2 OSG is providing a significant contribution, with several personnel deployed into the European Joint Operational Area (JOA) as part of the Theatre Enabling Group (TEG) in support of the US and NATO. Maj Hicks deployed with the advance party for the TEG. With contract management activity at Oskbol Camp and Esbjerg port continuing at pace, he has been extremely busy setting the conditions for subsequent Group personnel to deploy and continue commercial support to the exercise.

500 Comms Troop Members of 500 Comms Troop, Pte Murtagh and Pte Shaw, joined 212 Field Hospital on their ACT at Barry Buddon. Their role during the five-day exercise was to provide communication support for the Ground Manoeuvre Surgical Group Team (GMSGT). This involved

communicating medical evacuation information provided by the surgical group to EXCON and alerting the team to inbound casualties using MIST(AT) reports from the teams on the ground.

Providing communication support when the GMSG was threatened by local forces and ensuring force protection was drawn in to protect personnel was an exciting aspect of the exercise.

The exercise phase included a rotation of personnel staffing the GMSG and dealing with a multitude of scenarios ranging from road traffic accidents to traumatic gunshot wounds. Seeing the team in action really demonstrated the expertise available in our medical services and it proved a great opportunity for 500 Comms Troop personnel to consolidate their skills in the field whilst providing valuable support with their specialist communications capabilities.

8 Providing Comms capability at dusk on 212 Field Hospitals ACT

8 2 OSG completing the RFT Promotions, welcomes and farewells 2 OSG would like to offer a huge congratulations to WO2 Steve Allison on his promotion to WO1 and welcome him into his new appointment as the Group RSM. Congratulations also go to Sgt McNee on his selection for promotion to SSgt. Very well done to both.

The Unit will bid a fond farewell to Maj Cox, who after two years as the Group’s Executive Officer is heading to Army HQ in search of greener pastures. Lt Col Gaudoin, WO1 Gould and WO2 Pounder are hanging up their boots for good to enjoy ‘retired’ life. They have been an integral and instrumental part of the Group and Grantham Station for many years. The Unit wishes them all the best in the future.

About 2 OSG 2 OSG RLC is a nationally recruited unit based in Grantham, which offers real time roles supporting 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade, HQ ARRC, Labour Support and Contract Management across the Field Army, as well as communications support to the Army Medical Services and Field Hospitals. For further Information visit facebook.com/ 2OSG.ARMY.RESERVES

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132 Aviation Supply Squadron Royal Logistic Corps IPSWICH OC: Maj K Desai • SSM: WO2 G Fisher Whilst still meeting the unique logistic challenges of providing support to 1 Aviation Brigade Combat Team as part of the Bde Support Group (BSG) in the deployed space, the peacetime role of the Sqn continues, which is to manage the Apache aviation spares inventory and provide logistic support to its dependencies on deployment.

This period has also been heavily people-focussed, looking to develop the team both professionally and intellectually as well as develop a strong team ethos which has been facilitated by a range of team activities, sports and visits.

8 Personal development with Just Hype

Ex SABRE STRIKE Cpl Walker and a small team of LSS operatives deployed to Lithuania to provide support to Ex SABRE STRIKE. The initial phase of the exercise really tested the skills and ability of the Sqn to deploy with the deployable spares pack at very short notice. The team then spent the next six weeks ensuring the Apache’s from 4 AAC stayed ready to fly. Another successful deployment for the Sqn. Personal and professional development The Sqn has recently had a number of opportunities to engage with industry to share knowledge and gain valuable life experience.

Several different activities were organised from visits to the companies and inviting guest

8 The Sqn visits the Gurkha Museum 68

has also introduced personal development time allowing individuals to use a period every week to focus on a development area of their own choice. This has ranged from coding, mental health and logistics qualifications.

8 The Sqn was successful in the Mariners' Cup

speakers to come to Wattisham to deliver leadership or trade focussed presentations to the soldiers and officers. Some of the companies who have assisted us, include Lotus Cars, Just Hype, Magnus Logistics, Military Leaders and Beinspyred, a local D&I Champion.

It has offered the Sqn's soldiers an opportunity to ask questions of entrepreneurs and business leaders, to try and develop an understanding of different styles of leadership and how it works in the business world. It was also the perfect opportunity to learn about some logistics challenges that the commercial sector face during the pandemic and post BREXIT. The Bn

Team building Following on from Op TEAMWORK, the Sqn has had the opportunity to delve into a number team building days, delivered by the soldiers themselves. An adrenaline-fuelled day at the Go Kart track where the Sqn all competed in a Grand Prix session followed by a match at Ipswich Town football club was one example. Also a great visit organised by Pte Pun allowed the Sqn to get a much better understanding of the Corps’ history and the roles that the various trades of the RLC have played since its formation. Furthermore, personnel were given the opportunity to learn about Gurkha history at the Gurkha Museum in Winchester. Learning about the role Gurkhas have played in most UK military campaigns and the history behind the famous Khukuri knife. A great day out.

Finally, the Sqn competed in the inter-sqn Mariners Cup and with a keen basketball contingent ended up being eventual Champions.

Well done to all.

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Defence Munitions (DM) Kineton Station TEMPLE HERDEWYKE CO: Lt Col D Pickersgill • RSM: WO1 J Walker As a minor unit, Ammunition Technical Support Group (ATSG) has remained extremely busy in support of exercises and various operations across the world. The CO Lt Col DJ Pickersgill had the privilege of hosting DE&S Director Weapons, Mr E Cutts, Brig A Reilly, Mr N Rixon and Ms V Titchen. On this visit, the troops were commended for their involvement with recent operations and exercises and the day ended with an open forum on training delivery and behaviour within the workplace. The Unit has also said farewell to the previous Station RSM, WO1 M Banks, and welcomed the new Station RSM, WO1 J Walker. It has also partaken in Ex KHUKURI ENDEAVOUR, RLC sports competitions and has been working on the solid foundation to improve the lived experience of Service Personnel.

ATSG started the year attending various live firing exercises over a three-week period, alongside the Infantry Battle School Brecon and 35 Engineer Regiment. During the training, personnel observed traditional and urban mortar firings and assisted with NLAW, Guided Munition Ammunition Technician duties at Sennybridge Training Area. The training provided excellent Continual Professional Development for Class 2 and Class 1 Ammunition Technicians.

ATSG welcomed the opportunity to deploy a section to support 10 QOGLR on Ex KHUKURI ENDEAVOUR. This was led by Cpl Rigamoto. The exercise was aimed at providing an exciting and ambitious CT level validation exercise for all sub-units and demonstrated 10 QOGLR’s ability to deploy technically professional, bold, innovative and agile soldiers.

ATSG’s role was to maintain the Munitions Field Storage Facility in support of 10 QOGLR. This detachment presented a platform for Cpl Grannell (121 Squadron) to demonstrate her AT technical

knowledge on field storage, in the presence of 101 Log Bde Comd, Brigadier Patrick Reehal MBE, earning her a CO’s Commendation Coin for her remarkable efforts throughout. During the same period, the ATSG Cross-Country team, led by Sgt Boakye, was also busy representing the Unit at the RLC Minor Unit Cross-Country Championships. LCpl E Allison made his mark during the Army Judo Championships earning himself a silver medal in the 100kgs category and SSgt R Cameron led ATSG basketball team into the runners up position of the West Midlands Minor Unit Basketball Championships 2022.

The Squadrons have caught up on MATTs and trade training and importantly engaged in Op TEAMWORK, which aimed to tackle culture and inclusivity issues in the Service. Individuals were given the opportunity to discuss their personal

8 Cpl K Grannell receiving her CO's Commendation Coin

8 ATSG SP With 10 QOGLR Ammo Troop experience from a JNCO point of view and a SNCO perspective, this provided the CO with first-hand information and feedback.

The DM Kineton Station STEM team continues to provide countless activities to the local community reaching over 116 children, helping to expand their knowledge of basic rocket engineering and interest in building rocket cars at the Compton Verney art gallery and the British Motor Museum over the school half-term period. LCpl Harris and SAC (T) Dymond of 121 Sqn have contributed immensely to DM Kineton STEM team since their arrival in the Unit. They were presented with the CO’s Commendation Coin along with Cpl White, LCpl Pun and LCpl Burr from the MPGS Section. The MPGS PTI personnel were presented with the CO’s Commendation Coin as PTIs, for their efforts in assisting with ATSG PT lessons, management and improvement of the Station Gymnasium during the height of COVID restrictions.

In Mar 22, the ATSG training cohort organised an ACMT amidst the various busy schedules. This was to refresh skills and drills on the range in preparation for station security and future activity. Despite the wet weather, most of the soldiers managed to pass their assessment first time round impressing the ACMT staff with their sheer professionalism.

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The Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion GLOUCESTERSHIRE CO: Lt Col I Sands REME • Adjt: Capt H Bennett • RSM: WO1 R Wiseman

It has been a busy first quarter for the Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion, reconstituting following Exercise STEADFAST LEDA and preparing for its next overseas deployment in June. Following an extended Christmas leave period, the Battalion ran a specialised urban training exercise on behalf of 1 (UK) Sig Bde, putting some hi-tech equipment to the test in an interesting and challenging exercise.

Op TEAMWORK was conducted both in camp and on the urban training exercise with interesting and productive discussion happening across the board.

Regular feedback sessions have continued to ensure that the Bn is as inclusive as possible while celebrating the diversity that is so inherent to the identity of Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion. It’s been wonderful to see so many soldiers and officers take Op TEAMWORK in the way it was intended; the commitment on display at all levels to taking small steps to make others feel more included has been incredibly impressive.

With the relaxing of social distancing measures, unit visits are back on the table. With the Bn still in its first year as a Gurkha unit, it has been host to a number of visitors since the New Year, most notably Commander HQ ARRC, Commander 1 (UK) Sig Bde and the Colonel Brigade of Gurkhas.

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The Unit recently hosted Julien and Pierre, two French officer cadets from The École Spéciale Militaire de Saint-Cyr. Over a two-week period, they joined 14 Sqn on the urban training exercise and went on a number of cultural visits, including Oxford and London.

In return, Julien and Pierre organised a cheese and wine evening in the mess. This was a particularly informative serial for Lt Humphrey, who had somehow purchased three kinds of “the wrong brie”. The pièce de résistance was the Imjin Barracks Burns Night, where they were introduced to reeling, Scottish whisky, and the delights of the Scottish accent. They are now just weeks away from completing their commissioning course and beginning commando training and the Unit wishes them the best of luck for their future careers.

Sport has played an important

8 Some hi-tech kit was used during urban training

8 The Fleet half marathon team part of Bn life with several soldiers achieving impressive results. Cpl Lok was crowned the tri-service badminton men’s doubles champion alongside his doubles partner and LCpl Bivek, finished an impressive 81st out of 1,500 competitors in the Fleet Half Marathon. He was one of 19 from the Bn to take part. Several of the BN’s Royal Engineers and Queen’s Gurkha Engineers enjoyed a week away skiing in February and 13 members of the Bn braved the seas of the Solent for a week of sailing. It certainly wasn’t plain sailing with wind speeds gusting over 30 knots, but many are now looking forward to taking part in Ex BALEARIC WATCH later this year under the careful supervision of Capt Court. Meanwhile, the boxing team has started training for the Bde boxing in November and a number of personnel are having a successful rugby season playing for the ARRC Javelins.

Alongside this, a huge amount of work has gone into improving facilities on camp. The Forward Support Troop has been assisting the Gurkha Major with renovations to the Hindu and Buddhist Temples and creating a functional messing area on camp. The latter will certainly get some use in the next quarter as we welcome new faces and say goodbye to old ones.

Jai Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion!

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Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS) BENSON, OXFORDSHIRE OC: Maj J Wells • SSM: WO2 P Devine 2022 sees the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron celebrate the 40th Anniversary since the official formation, and recognition of its forerunners, the Joint Helicopter Support Unit (JHSU), after the Falklands Conflict in 1982. JHSS will be holding an event at RAF Benson in July to celebrate 40 years of supporting all three Services with specialist helicopter handling skills all around the world. The event will be by invitation to anyone who has been a member of JHSU or JHSS in the past 40 years. For anyone who wishes to enquire about the event, please send an email to ‘Project Officer’ at: BEN-JHSS-40THANNGMB@mod.gov.uk Ex KNEES STRETCH – Nordic Skiing, Austria.

By Sgt Ben Regan RLC In March of this year, Joint Helicopter Support Squadron sent a scratch team to Austria for two weeks to train and compete in the challenging and demanding sport of Nordic Skiing. The novice team consisted of SSM WO2 Devine, SSgt Lewis, Sgt Regan and Ptes’ Davies, Stedman and Toomey, all RLC soldiers from the Squadron.

The two-week exercise tested both the physical and mental robustness of all team members in an unknown environment, while mastering the basics of a physically

8 JHSS has enjoyed success in skiing,

football and athletics in recent months

8 In July JHSS celebrates 40 years since

its formation following the Falklands War

challenging and unfamiliar sport.

All the team members were consistent in portraying the professional image expected of members of the Armed Forces and their positive attitude, motivation and full social interaction made it a

truly memorable event. With dedication and determination, all team members competed in both the Classic and Skate races. It came as a very pleasant surprise when the JHSS team were announced as winners of the overall event and enjoyed a well-deserved celebration. Their return to the HQ saw them added to the ever-growing list of sporting successes for JHSS and bring back more silverware to add to the already bursting squadron trophy cabinet. Once again living up to the Sqn motto, Together We Deliver.

The last few months on JHSS have been particularly successful for JHSS' personnel in the sporting arena with notable achievements in athletics, skiing (see above) and football. All competitions involved RLC soldiers representing the Corps from Private through to Captain, alongside their RAF and other cap badged Army colleagues. These opportunities have given the chance for the Sqn to show how it values its people at every level and strengthens the character and ethos that is so important in the cohesion of a small specialist unit such as JHSS. 8 Sqn members celebrate their win during Ex KNEES STRETCH

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Logistic Support Squadron CLR BARNSTAPLE OC: Maj M Murphy • SSM: WO2 S Kingston The Logistic Support Squadron has continued to operate at full pace, with the majority of personnel deployed on exercise in Norway and the remainder supporting readiness and operations in the UK. As frequently happens in a VHR unit, the established plan for Exercises CETUS 22 and COLD RESPONSE were dramatically changed by world events.

Ex KHUKURI ENDEAVOUR Members of Dieppe Troop, alongside members of 10 QOGLR and 13 AASR deployed on Ex KHUKURI ENDEAVOUR to West Freugh, Scotland, to take part in fuel cross-pollination training.

Throughout the wet and windy weather, the petroleum operators established and maintained a Primary Bulk Fuel Installation consisting of a four-tank site holding 43,000 litres of fuel, developing trade skills and interoperability with the other two units.

Cold Weather Warfare course Throughout January and February, ranks from LS Sqn deployed to Norway to conduct the Cold Weather Warfare course. This course is designed to enable personnel to operate in arctic and mountainous environments and is essential for supporting the Royal Marines on operations. The course itself is split into three phases.

During the initial survival phase, ranks learned how to survive; living in tents, building snow shelters, operating with the equipment and avalanche drills. The week culminates with the infamous ice breaking drills.

Mobility week follows, training personnel how to move in in the environment. Cross-country skiing dominates and ranks learn how to navigate and manoeuvre across the frozen ground in the most efficient and tactical manner. The course ends with a tactical phase and ranks practice tactical drills such as ambushes and deliberate 72

attacks, before forming two troops for a force-on-force exercise, where opposing forces aiming to track, deceive and destroy each other.

Ex COLD RESPONSE Following cold weather course, members of the Sqn moved onto special-to-arm training, including troops moved into an STA package of live firing on several different weapon systems (significantly more challenging on skis!) as well as Tactics, Techniques and Procedures for conducting various resupply and equipment support operations in the arduous environment. At the end of the package, personnel embarked onto RFA MOUNTS BAY for Ex COLD RESPONSE 22, a multinational NATO exercise involving 30,000 troops from 27 countries. Once embarked, the Troop conducted wader drills with the vehicles and capsize drills in the Norwegian Sea before supporting 40 Commando with underslung helicopter loads and logistic support from the ship.

Welsh Ambulance Service MACA Tasking Ptes Andres, Banning, Roddis and Robinson continue to be deployed in Wales to assist the Welsh Ambulance Service, driving ambulances to relieve pressure on paramedics so they can increase the number of patients that can be assisted.

8 During the mobility phase of the CWWC, troops learn how to operate and fight on skis Pre-Commando Package (PCP) LS Sqn, on behalf of Commando Logistic Regiment RM, is a main donor unit for the All-Arms Commando Course (AACC). The PCP is a mandatory four-week course that develops both military skills and physical fitness in order to give students the best opportunity to pass the AACC. The PCP is a progressive yet demanding course starting on day one with an 8-mile loaded march carrying 25kgs and the Royal Marine Basic Fitness Test. Candidates should arrive being able to pass both tests within the allotted timeframes. The next course will start in August 22. If you feel you have what it takes to earn the coveted Green Beret and serve in 3 Cdo Bde, contact LS Sqn Ops at 3cdox-clrlsops@mod.gov.uk

8 Man tents provide shelter from the elements

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44 Support Squadron Royal Military Academy SANDHURST OC: Maj C Swift • TCWO: WO1 M Regan 44 Support Squadron RLC is a part of the Station Support Unit (SSU) responsible for providing efficient transport, ES and tactical communication support to British Army Officer training at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. The Sqn is a busy and active unit with huge opportunities to develop career attributes in a fun and happy working environment.

The lifting of COVID-19 restrictions has seen the return of a full, exciting and energetic FOE for the Sqn. The spring term started with full programme of exercise preparations readying equipment and soldiers for the start of “exercise season”.

In addition to supporting officer training exercises, the Sqn has been enjoying a leadership development programme. The programme commenced this term with Ex ACE OF SPADES, a cross-country driving competition.

During the competition, soldiers experienced the challenging driving conditions of Eelmoor training area, a timed wheel change stand and a blindfolded guiding task. Sgt Butcher of the LAD also provided an educational recovery stand. Sgt Mann delivered an excellent presentation on emotional

intelligence where soldiers were prompted to consider theirs and the CoC actions and how that affects the effectiveness of the Sqn. The next event will see the Sqn conduct a war studies day, visiting Bovington Tank Museum and Lepe Beach to understand the logistical demands of conflict.

Army officer training culminates with Ex DYNAMIC VICTORY, a two-week deployment to Germany.

The Sqn plays a critical role in the support of the exercise whilst benefiting from excellent training

8 Sp Sqn visit to Bovington Tank Museum opportunities itself. The transcontinental deployment provides ample opportunity for Drivers and the CoC to exercise their operational skills from multi-day driving to ensuring all the customs regulations are met in addition to experiencing some German and US hospitality.

Special congratulations go to SSgt Sharp for being selected for promotion to WO2 and Sgt Foote for selection on the SSgt board. WO2 Sharp will assume the WO2 FOT Support at DCLPA in early 2023.

This term has also seen the arrival of two new sqn members who have both settled in extremely quickly to the team ethos and have already deployed in support of officer training. The Sqn is always looking for enthusiastic soldiers to join the team and reap the rewards of working in a historical setting with a full spectrum of benefits.

This is one of the few postings where a soldier can confidently plan their leave up to three years in advance. If this looks attractive to you, feel free to come for a visit and see what’s on offer.

8 Ex ACE OF SPADES; recovery task

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Joint Logistic Squadron CYPRUS Stn Comd: Gp Capt N Thomas • Adjt: Capt J Currie • OC PC & Ammo Tp: Capt A Hoccom The Joint Logistic Squadron (JLS), part of the Cyprus Operations Support Unit (COSU), comprises of six distinct trade troops from both the RAF and RLC. Cyprus is the perfect place for RLC soldiers from all trades to develop technically through its output-led dynamic working environment. There is a consistent high tempo to support the wide-ranging tasks and to deliver operational support.

Postal & Courier Troop As the largest overseas PC dept, there are 19 soldiers dispersed across the island’s four garrisons.

They are supplemented by an agile team of deployed PC Operators assigned to: Op KIPION, Op TOSCA and Op SHADER. The primary daily outputs are to support all Cyprus-based exercises and operations as well as to serve the British Forces Cyprus (BFC) community.

Both Brexit and COVID-19 have brought about significant challenges for PC Operators, which has required all to become highly adaptable and solidify their trade knowledge. One such example has been undertaking the conveyance of Protectively Marked Material (PMM) by delivering and receiving Secret to Top Secret STRAP to 15 on-island units.

Previously a task carried out by the Defence Courier Service, PC Tp has now established itself at the forefront of this service which has enhanced both its reputation and relevance.

8 Pte Wood is part of the Op KIPION dept who deliver Diplomatic Materiel

Similarly, the Op KIPION dept is responsible for the entire end-to-end planning, processing and delivery of Diplomatic Material across the Broader Middle East, routinely delivering critical kit and equipment to Iraq, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UK. A hive of operational activity, Cyprus PC Tp is the premier firm-base training location for PC Operators. They host a steady supply of 29 Regt soldiers, who come with either skill-fade or little experience and leave as competent professionals.

Ammunition Troop The Tp consists of 12 soldiers and is divided into three sections:

Ammunition-Sub Depot (ASD) Management, EOD & Inspectorate and Ammunition Supply.

ASD Management is scaled down version of a UK depot. Led by an Ammunition Technician (AT) Sgt, they work with civilian and military contractors to maintain infrastructure to the highest standards whilst managing the ammunition stockpile and munition serviceability.

EOD & Inspectorate is also led by an AT Sgt and covers the same aspects as an EOD Tp in the UK, providing 24hrs immediate EOD response for IED and CMD within the Sovereign Base Areas of Cyprus, using the latest in UK EOD equipment. All EOD Operators in Cyprus are qualified and licensed in line with the Air Land Proposition, allowing them to deal with crashed armed aircraft; a specialisation held by a small number of personnel within the military. This section is also responsible for investigating ammunition incidents, providing range support and technical advice to all units both exercising and operational within the AOR. The Supply team are tasked with the responsibility of maintaining and scrutinising the second line Ammunition Account. The team has sustained recent operational outputs such as Op FORTIS and Op PITTING. Ammo Troop has eight dependant units within BFC and a host of exercising units visiting Cyprus annually. The team has enhanced its trade knowledge by all obtaining bespoke qualifications (Authorised Representative Road, Basic RLC Ammunition Duties and Dangerous Goods (Surface and Air)). Additionally, several members of the Tp are pursuing higher education in logistics management.

Ammo Tp has the distinguished honour to be the lead within BFC for Defence Engagement thanks to the biannual exercises with local Cypriot national forces and a heavy involvement in STEM. 8 EOD capability demonstration

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British Forces Brunei - RLC Logistic Support BRUNEI SO3 Log Sp: Capt N Kelsey • GSM: WO1 Khem Ollivierre The RLC Stores Section –

by SSgt Prabin Rai The RLC Store Section is the second-line Line Custodial Account which provides level two vehicles spares support to Brunei Garrison workshop and tracks all inbound and outbound consignments of defence materiel. It has been a busy five months for the RLC Stores Section since SSgt Prabin Rai, QOGLR took over as the SNCO in Nov 21. Despite the recent COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions in Brunei, the three-man team has managed to grab some professional opportunities and renovated the infrastructure within the stores. The team has always been very professional and has displayed great versatility when required to receive and then distribute sea and air freight consignments to HQ BFB dependency units.

Early February 2022 provided an opportunity for Cpl Sijan Kaucha and Cpl Benyamin Limbu to attend SA(M) 07 and SA(K) 90 courses respectively along with 2RGR (resident Infantry Battalion) Riflemen. The two-week course was both physically and mentally arduous, taking place in the vast jungle of Brunei. On successful completion both Cpls are now qualified to supervise and coach on a live firing ranges and can plan and execute blank firing exercises with infantry weapon systems and pyrotechnics. Both of them are looking forward to utilising their qualifications and knowledge within the wider garrison units in near the future.

Most recently the RLC Stores Section has superbly organised “Auction 22”. An annual event in the BFB calendar - sadly postponed for two years - it provided an opportunity for the local civilians to purchase surplus goods in a safe environment, which resulted in a positive impact on the Unit’s reputation.

Currently, the RLC Stores Section is working hard in preparation of the

forthcoming LSA&I, they are looking forward to welcoming the assurance team who have been unable to come to Brunei since 2019.

Ex PACIFIC KUKRI 22 (Feb-Apr 22)

by WO2 Ben Vine ATWO Ex PACIFIC KUKRI 22 (Ex PK 22) was an infantry company group level overseas training exercise (OTX) in Australia. As much an exercise in logistical flexibility and adaptation as it was an infantry FTX; B Company, 2RGR and logistic support elements from BFB, faced the impact of COVID, the worst flooding in Queensland since 2011 and record temperatures across Shoalwater Bay Training Area. The first hurdle saw the 120 strong main body stranded in Brisbane with roads to Shoalwater Bay cut in multiple places. After liaison between the BFB Movements Control Cell and the ADF, the soldiers were accommodated and the weapons and stores secured until the flood waters subsided.

After five days of waiting, MCC secured three coaches and multiple trucks to move the stores and pax on the 700km, 12-hour journey to Camp Growl on Shoalwater Bay. Throughout the exercise, the Coy had to balance a localised COVID outbreak with training outputs, however by the middle of the LFTT package the entire Coy was able to

8 From L-R. Cpl Benyamin Limbu, SSgt Prabin Rai, Cpl Sijan Kaucha

launch a deliberate LFTT attack, which culminated in an NLAW engagement onto in-depth enemy armour. This provided some great exposure to infantry tactics for the Guided Missile Ammunition Technical team.

The Coy was able to complete a full range of live and blank tactical training, integrating support weapons including mortars, anti-tank and machine guns to achieve the training objectives.

However, the exercise exposed the logistical challenges faced in delivering OTX’s or similar expeditionary operations at reach from established lines of communication. The real-world frictions represented exceptional training for the real-life support team who had to repeatedly adapt to the prevailing situation to support and sustain the exercise. In total 165 pax, ammunition, weapons and stores were moved a total of 5,500km from Brunei to Australia during the COVID pandemic, which enabled the exercise to be delivered fully and on time. This was an exceptional achievement and testament to the hard work, liaison and adaptability of all involved.

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British Army Training Unit KENYA OC Stores Troop: Capt T Spetch • BOWO: WO1 Z Khan

By Captain Tom Spetch Following the announcement in the Integrated Review about the growth of BATUK to Land Regional Hub (Kenya), there has been a significant increase in activity for all BATUK personnel (and CSS departments especially).

For anyone considering volunteering for a TDS deployment, regardless of rank, I would highly recommend it. BATUK is a high tempo but rewarding environment.

Working daily in your trade, it has certainly tested and improved my logistical knowledge. I would argue that there are few opportunities elsewhere, where you can fulfil your trade competency and currency to such a level, whether this be on support to STTTs and Ops, support to Persistent Engagement activity, Ex ASKARI STORMs and various other CT-F level exercises in Kenya.

Personal highlights from my time in Kenya so far, have been going on Safari, a Mountain Bike Race down Mt Kenya, climbing Mt Longonot, two weeks in Mombasa during a maintenance sail from the RFA and a community engagement project with a local school in Nanyuki.

Farewell to Maj Richie Crane MBE 25 Feb 22 marked Maj Richie Crane MBE last day in Army, after 42 years of service. Joining in 1980 as a chef, he rose to the rank of WO1. Maj Crane was commissioned in 2010.

In 2017, he was awarded an MBE

8 Maj Ritchie Crane and Kerry Crane 76

for his services to RLC Tradesmen.

He spent a great deal of his career in Africa, working with antipoaching missions and travelling around the continent helping establish conservancies. Maj Crane’s final posting was to BATUK as SO2 CSS. BATUK and all those that have served with him thank him for his service and wish him and Kerry all the best for the future.

WO1 Khan, BATUK BOWO With Ex ASKARI STORM 5/21 underway, it has been challenging to ensure that this exercise is well supported by BATUK on all logistical activity. The lack of Land Rover spares in the Army inventory system has had an enormous impact during the regeneration of the Land Rover fleet. The secondline Stores, and Workshops have worked hand in hand to ensure that demands are processed, and jobs completed in a timely manner to facilitate the success of the exercise. In addition to this I have has also been working on the disposal of spares for DROPS and Land Rovers, which are now obsolete. Finally, a big well done to all those involved in the annual Supply LSA&I assurance and thank

8 Road Safety Training was delivered to pupils at Thingithu school

you for their selfless commitment towards their work here in Kenya.

WO2 McGee, BATUK MTWO Over the last few months, running concurrently with the hand over of the vehicle fleet in preparation for Ex ASKARI STORM 5/21, the BATUK MT - made up of the MTWO, Sgt Annesley and Cpl Kilby - visited a local school to deliver Road Safety Training.

Thingithu school, Nanyuki has over 600 children aged from five to 14 years old. Lessons were delivered on ‘Being Seen’ and ‘How to cross the road safely’. This was taught during a film show on the school grounds, in which the children interacted with BATUK MT. On conclusion of the presentation, the children were given several gifts which included a Hi-Vis Vest, colouring books and crayons presented by the MT team. This was the first visit to Thingithu School and the BATUK MT Department aims to deliver road safety training and community engagement projects again in the very near future.

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#BritishArmyLogistics On 7 May 22, ten teams from 102 Operational Sustainment Brigade and local units gathered at one of East Yorkshire's finest stately homes, Sledmere House Estate, to tackle a series of tests that reflected the life and work of the British Army’s Wagoners.

On 5th August 1914, when Wagoner William Maltby CHT530 and fellow members of the Wagoner’s Special Reserve (the Wolds Wagoners) received their call-up notice, little would they know that over 100 years later soldiers from the British Army would be taking part in a military skills competition that reflected their skills and life.

The Wagoner’s Special Reserve was the brainchild of Sir Mark Sykes, 6th Baronet of Sledmere, in response to the difficulties of mobility and supply faced by the Army during the Boer War and in particular the lack of skilled wagon drivers. By 1913 he had set up a Special Reserve of skilled men who could be called up to serve overseas if required. A Wagoner was paid a retainer of £1 and 1,130 signed up.

On mobilisation, 800 of these volunteers were sent straight to France with the Army Service Corps (ASC), the first Territorials to go to the front. By way of continuation training, Sir Mark organised a number of wagon driving competitions to test and hone the skills of the Special Reserve and this was the inspiration behind Ex WAGON CHALLENGE. Martin Watts, the Curator of the Museum of the Wagoner’s Special Reserve and Capt Elliot Backhouse 6 Regt RLC, devised the modern-day competition.

Teams of eight personnel were entered by: 4th Battalion YORKS, 6 Regiment RLC, 7 Regiment RLC, 10 Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment, 25 Regiment RLC (two

EXERCISE | THE SUSTAINER

Ex WAGON CHALLENGE

8 Driving the WWI GS Wagon

8 Tossing the sheaf teams), 150 Regiment RLC, 159 Regiment RLC, 3 Med Regiment RAMC and 2nd Battalion REME. The teams completed eight challenges, which included: The Wagon Run – An endurance race over 2km carrying parts of a wagon across country, followed by reassembly.

Hit the Rat - Rats were a terrible problem in supply depots. A well-aimed stone or swipe with a stick was often used to keep numbers down.

The Bale Challenge – This was timed event to load 18 bales of hay onto a flatbed wagon, lead the wagon pulled by a Clydesdale horse round a course and then unload.

Driving Long Rein - Horses were driven in long reins from the ground as part of their training or when ploughing.

Showing in Hand - Handling a horse was the first basic skill of the Wagoner. Today’s soldiers put their skills to the test.

Driving the GS Wagon - The RLC Horse-Drawn Heritage team were delighted to supply a WW1 General Service Wagon and competitors were tasked to drive a figure of eight course to test their skill and handling a pair of horses.

Toss the Sheaf - Wagoners had to build straw and haystacks. The test was to see how high the soldiers could toss a sheaf.

Tug of War – When a wagon got stuck, Wagoners needed to pull it free. RLC Horse-Drawn Heritage donated an original 1913 silver Tug of War Trophy to the challenge winners.

The day also included a demonstration of the 1861 Wolds Wagon from the estate and a WW1 horse-drawn Horse Ambulance. The Kukri Dance was performed by 10 QOGLR. The day was a tremendous success with everyone enjoying the experience of a totally unique military skills competition. A magnificent bronze trophy of a heavy horse was presented by Mr Jeremy Sykes of Sledmere house, a grandson of Sir Mark Sykes, to the winning 10 QOGLR team. The use of the Sledmere Estate was courtesy of Sir Tatton Sykes Bt. 8 The Bale Challenge

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RLC Cycling RLC MTB Enduro Team New season, new team. The RLC MTB Enduro Team has a new sponsor for the 2022 season in the form of Akhter Computer Ltd and with Durabook taking over as co-sponsor, this means a whole new look for the team’s kit so be sure to keep an eye on social media for our new jerseys.

The season kicks off in Fort William on 23-24 Apr 22 where the team will be competing in the ICERS before heading into the newly formed ACES on 5 May 22 being held at Llandegla. With 16 new riders, the RLC MTB Enduro Team boasts a healthy 10-person main team and an additional six development team riders. You can look forward to updates from the team on social media throughout the season.

Cyclocross - LCpl Andy White With the Cyclocross season just ending, the Mountain bike season begins. l was fortunate enough to be selected for both Army teams’ this year so the graft has begun.

This involved attending the Cyclocross team training camp in Cyprus to condition us into our base phase - it's really important to be able race all year round to have a solid foundation of fitness so that you can train specifically towards the beginning of the season. The Army MTB XC Series, like many other regional and national rounds, have just started so if you haven't already sign up for one, I encourage you to do so. It's aimed at beginners, but even the most experienced of riders get a good race on the day.

The next race for me is a solo 12-hour MTB race called Torq which runs from midday until midnight, it should be a leg breaker!

RLC ZWIFT E-Racing and road racing The RLC e-cycling team has continued the success achieved in previous seasons by finishing in second place overall. With over 60 riders participating across the series, we have become a very close knit, supportive group. As well as the team success, we also 78

8 The female road team (ACCRS) taking place at various venues through the country starting in May going through to September. Please check us out on Facebook and Instagram: RLC_Cycling_association for more details.

RLC CYCLING CHAMPIONSHIPS Keep an eye out for the return of the RLC Cycling championships which will be held at Dalton Barracks, Abingdon - provisional date 14 Sep 22.

8 Cyclist Cpl Karl Welsh landed a number of individual podiums: Capt James Redlar - 3rd Male and 2nd Male Master Sgt Laura Furness - 3rd Senior Female Capt Laura Clarke - 2nd Female Master Capt Sue Chittock - 1st Grand Master Female The races take place on Wednesdays on Zwift, a virtual cycling platform where your output on a bike fitted to a turbo or rollers is replicated by your avatar. The next series will commence in the Autumn.

Our focus has now moved to the Army Cycling Road Race Series

8 Cyclocross - LCpl Andy White

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By Maj Hannah Hewins The beginning of April marked the first 2022 military equestrian competition, The UK Armed Forces Equestrian Championships (UKAFEC) at Bury Farm Equestrian Centre. The competition included: tent pegging, dressage and show jumping. This fixture also hosted the first leg of the Loriners Inter-services trophy, of which the Army is currently defending, which was the dressage leg.

The RLC Tent Pegging Team consisted of Lt Col Angela Briggs (Army HQ), Sgt Antony Bysouth (151 Regt) and Cpl Paul Bennion (167 Regt) all equipped for this season with loaned horses that hopefully knew what to do! The team had only managed to get together for one practice (a couple of days before) with instruction from Maj David Puckey.

The sport of tent pegging is a pre-WWI sport which practices horsemanship skills with lethal intent, where a horse is ridden at a gallop with the use of a sword or 7 ft. lance and the rider attempts to pick up a two- or three-inch-wide white tent peg from the ground. This requires a good eye, riding skills and sometimes strong nerves. The last military competition for Cpl Bennion (as he ends his Reserve Career) saw him win the individual sword and lance competitions, with the team winning the team lance with the three horses galloping in a line.

We had two riders, Maj Rose Lambert (9 Regt RLC) and Maj Becky Darke (29 Regt RLC) compete in dressage and show jumping, with both riders achieving what they had set out to do. Maj

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RLC Equestrian

Darke not only picked up an individual 1st, 2nd and 3rd place across her dressage classes but also helped the Army team hold onto the team 2nd place for the Loriners leg. Her CO, Lt Col Julie Symons, attended the event to watch her success.

Our third rider, Cpl Gillian Gallagher (103 Regt RA) was sadly unable to compete due to a problem

8 L to R: Lt Col Ange Briggs, Cpl Bennion and Sgt Bysouth delight in their wins in Tent Pegging

with her horse however her civilian company sponsors two of the event classes and she received her Army Half Colours shield on the day for her contributions and achievements in Army Dressage over the last season.

Cpl Bennion’s departure leaves a gap in the tent pegging team and any reader wishing to take up this exciting sport or any other horse-related sports and training please get in touch via the RLC Equestrian Facebook page (RLC Mounted Sports Club) or find us on Instragram: www.instagram.com/rlc_equiuk/ The next military fixture will be the Royal Tournament in June held at Melton Mowbray.

8 Maj Beck Darke is congratulated by her CO Lt Col Symons on her dressage wins

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