The Sustainer Summer 23

Sustainer THE

Journal of The Royal Logistic Corps R SUMMER 2023

THE ROYAL LOGISTIC CORPS Celebrating 30 years since formation

#WeSustain

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 31 No 2 R Summer 2023

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Contents 2 Foreword The foreword to RLC30 by HRH The Princess Royal

7 Royal Visit HRH The Prince of Wales visits The RLC in Poland

10 RLC30 - 1 Jun 23 Parade, thanksgiving and celebration in Winchester

74 14 The Carmen A 30-year thriving relationship

18 Connected Chefs New Defence Connect platform for RLC Chefs launched

20 Op GOLDEN ORB 20 Sqn’s role in the Coronation

22 Op INTERLINK Logistic support to Ukraine’s Armed Forces

32 Red & Black on tour 13 AASR visits iconic WW2 sites

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

70 Sports Awards 2023 See who won what at the 2023 RLC Sports Awards

74 Adaptive Skiing Rehabilitating WIS military personnel on the slopes

EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to the re-scheduled summer edition of The Sustainer. You will see that the edition is dedicated to recording all the events that have happened across the Corps to mark RLC30. There are also some interesting and insightful articles covering other activity and events and I am grateful to all our contributors.

It has been good to see some articles submitted for this edition by RLC Service Personnel attached to non RLC units. The 40% of the Corps that is detached accounts for 40% of what the Corps does, whether that be work, sport or just personal achievement. As The Sustainer forms the official historical record of the Corps, I encourage more of you to allow us to record what you are doing.

As previously advertised, there will be one more edition in 2023, with a copy deadline of 2 Oct. I am aware that the autumn is always a busy period for exercises and events, so to ensure we can include your reports in a timely fashion, if you need an extension please contact me. The deadline for the spring 2024 edition is 10 Jan 24.

Since 2017, RHQ The RLC has benefitted from having

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: Anne Pullenkav Email: rlcsustainer@gmail.com Graphic Design: David Blake Copy deadlines for THE SUSTAINER: 2 Oct 23, 10 Jan 24, Summer 24 TBC 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

members of the RLC’s Army Photographer trade within the media and communications team. In July we said farewell to Sgt Nick Johns and Cpl Anil Gurung, who have moved on to start new roles. Their contribution to the Corps’ media output has been immense and much of their work has benefitted wider army communications.

We hope to see another Army Phot in the team in the future, but for now our ability to support Corps activity is significantly reduced.

On a brighter note, in June we welcomed our new Media and Communications Assistant Anne Pullenkav.

Anne has a master’s degree in media and communications and will be a huge asset, especially in the area of improving and developing The RLC’s digital platforms.

I hope you enjoy reading this edition and I look forward to receiving your articles in the autumn prior to publication in the winter 23 edition at the beginning of December.

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: HRH The Princess Royal inspects the RLC Freedom of Winchester Parade. Image: Sgt N Johns SNCO RLCVPT.

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A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE The Colonel RLC

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The highlight of this reporting period is unquestionably the RLC30 event

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This is the first in the new format of the thrice yearly Sustainers.The decision was reluctantly taken as a result of reduced staff in the Corps HQ and the production costs of the publication, to reduce it from four to three editions per year. I would like to formally record that the purpose of the Sustainer is not just a regimental newsletter, but it serves as a permanent historic record and an essential part of the fabric of our Corps’ heritage. As such publishing your regimental, trade group or personal accounts in Sustainer becomes even more significant; because while we are in the digital age, there is no guarantee that in the future we will be able to access imagery or accounts recorded on websites or on social media accounts, if those platforms are shut down.

The highlight of this reporting period is unquestionably the RLC30 event.The purpose of the event was to formally, albeit belatedly, mark the relocation of the Corps home to Worthy Down and Winchester, previously not possible due to COVID-19 restrictions.This was an opportunity for the Corps Family regulars, reserves, cadets, veterans and families - to reunite, celebrate and enjoy our new home. It also provided the platform for local dignitaries, youth and community leaders and ‘gatekeepers’ to meet their new local army unit,The RLC, and build long lasting positive relationships with us.

The event was an astounding success, despite a rather chilly and early start (0400 silent hours rehearsal) the weather became kinder throughout the day lifting spirits further. Prior to the inspecting officer arriving we were treated to a double pass of a CH47 from 28 Squadron RAF, facilitated by the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron.The inspecting officer was our Colonel-inChief, HRH The Princess Royal, assisted by the honourable Nigel Atkinson Esq Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire accompanied by the Master General of Logistics, and Maj Gen Gerry Ewart-Brookes, late RLC.The parade absolutely filled the city centre and was an indomitable sight.

The turn-out, drill and bearing of all concerned

was absolutely exceptional.

Immediately following the parade, there was at the Service of Thanksgiving in Winchester Cathedral.

At 1,000 years old it was a spectacular backdrop to a Corps celebrating its coming of age. Following the service was a series of formal receptions, both in Winchester at back at camp; events transitioned into an open day and open-air concert.

In numbers - including bands, cadets and veterans - over 600 personnel were on parade; 1,800 people attended the Service of Thanksgiving, including two Members of Parliament, one three star and 20 two-star generals (serving and retired).The logistics behind the event were equally spectacular. 80 separate transport details (co-ordinated by Maj Matty Barton, 44 Sqn RMAS) and over 1,800 meals served under the leadership of Maj Gav Dickerson, supported by the Head of Trade,WO1 Foulds, and wider chef trade.There was a BBQ for 800 people that had been on parade (and families) and 700 enjoyed a combined mess curry lunch provided by the chefs of the QOGLR. At a VIP lunch served in the Officers’ Mess, MGL reflected on the past 30 years and trailed what the future may hold. I commend to you review his “Letter from the Future” which is enclosed in this magazine. In total c3,000 personnel - serving, retired and local civilians - attended the events at Worthy Down camp, demonstrating the passion and belief all ranks have for the Corps.Whilst I have done so privately, I would like to publicly record my thanks to all those who supported the event through planning and delivery (cohered by Lt Col Louise Stewart).

In other news, the Corps HQ bid a fond farewell to Capt Chris Sutherland (assigned to 13 AASR) who handed over to WO1 (CRSM) Stevie Muir, who we offer a warmest of welcomes. Chris put in a herculean shift culminating with delivery of the Freedom Parade of Winchester.

Likewise after an extended gap in the HQ (ably covered by Maj Simon Robertson) we also welcome Lt Col Chloe O’Brien as our COS. And finally a massive congratulations to all ranks who have been awarded state and operational honours since the last publication.

We Sustain.

Colonel P A Allen ADC

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THE RLC ASSOCIATION TRUST | THE SUSTAINER

The RLC Association Trust Annual Report and Accounts 2022 (Abridged) The regimental activities of The RLC are funded through private (nonpublic) funds held within“The RLC Charity”,The RLC Association Trust (Registered Charity No 1024036).

These charitable funds comprise of contributions from serving members of The RLC via the Day’s Pay Scheme (DPS) as well as investments providing income and growth.

The Master General of Logistics as the titular Head of Corps chairs the Trust Fund supported by a board of Trustees representing the serving Corps, RLC Veteran community and four predecessor Corps (RCT, RAOC, RPC and ACC). The Forming Corps donated the Trust’s initial capital which having been invested has been the Corps’ financial underpinning for the last 29 years.

The objects of the Trust are the promotion of the efficiency of The Royal Logistic Corps, support to fraternity and the relief of need for eligible personnel. Each year the Corps reports on the status of these funds.

Annual Report 2022 (Abridged) The Trustees remain confident that the objectives of the Trust, namely, welfare and benevolence support for its past and present members and the efficiency of the Corps, are being met.

Additionally, that the plans for the Trust are sound and well placed to meet the current and future needs of The RLC. The Trust activities, wherever possible, include public benefit and community engagement.

Investing for the future All of the Trust’s investments are held in the Armed Forces Charities Growth & Income Fund; the investment performance has been affected by world markets and the war in Ukraine and following a sizeable loss in value has shown signs of recovery; meeting fully the ability to fund the Corps objectives in 2022 and beyond.

Despite the planned reductions in the size of the Corps, the Trust’s funds remain sufficient to support without detriment to Corps efficiency and those in need. Expenditure is being well managed with the combined value, as at 31 Dec 22, of the investments within the Trust being £40.1M. Public benefit Responsibilities extend to the wider community; the Corps Open Day (provided free of charge to the public), The RLC Museum (which received a grant of £100K) and other heritage support. The Corps funds Freedom Parades, Reserve Bands and the Corps of Drums which perform at a wide range of public events providing closer ties with our society. The RLC Foundation promotes professional excellence within the Corps.

Objectives and activities The Trust supports the activities of The RLC, the largest Corps in the Army, totalling some 11,000 Regular and 4,000 Reserve soldiers: funding and managing the fraternal activities of Predecessor Corps across some Structure, governance and 80 branches. The budget in 2022 to management support all Corps activities was The key challenges are to maintain £2.51M. Regular, trained RLC income levels to support the full range of Reservists and Veterans of The RLC Trust responsibilities against a and Predecessor Corps are eligible continuing backdrop of a reducing for benevolence support. military strength and income from the Communication with the Corps and DPS which for 2022 totalled £1.086M. our Associations is through The RLC Reviews of the Armed Forces will Website,‘The Sustainer’, The ‘RLC inevitably continue to reduce and Foundation Review’ plus a total of 10 change the structures of several Regular Newsletters at a total cost for and Reserve units and re-locate others. publications, including distribution,

of £99.5K. Grants totalling some £510K were made to support sport and adventurous training including shared use of the adventurous training lodge (Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre) in the Lake District.

Achievement and performance Support to Benevolence represents the greatest single financial outlay of the Trust. The Army Benevolent Fund received a donation of £150K in 2022 and 1,012 grants totalling £638K were made to those in need.

All Regular members of The RLC contributing to the DPS continue to be covered for accidental death or injury whilst off duty. Unfortunately, we made three deaths in service grants in 2022. The DPS also provides the Medical Discharge Grant Scheme; in 2022, £54K was paid to 97 eligible medically discharged soldiers to assist with their enforced return to civilian life; an average grant of £561 per claimant, based on £90 per year of service to a maximum of 10 years.

Efficiency of the Corps The Trust continues to support Reserve Bands, Pipes and Drums and the Corps of Drums who continue to play an increasing role in community engagement and perform at charitable and public events. The Central Sergeants’ Mess received funding of £33.3K. The Headquarters Officers’ Mess, to which officers pay specifically an additional 50% of a Day’s Pay for events, spent £106K. Furthermore, grants continue to be made to assist units and formations in maintaining RLC traditions and heritage and fostering community engagement.

Summary: Income from the DPS, investments (including growth), donations and subscriptions in 2022 totalled £3.2M. Expenditure across the full range of Corps activities for the said period was £2.6M.

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FROM THE RANKS

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I am truly humbled and feel extremely privileged to be offered this prestigious position and the opportunity to serve you, as your Corps Sergeant Major

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I would like to take this opportunity as I open up this edition of ‘From the Ranks’ to warmly say thank you to everyone who has supported me upon taking up the appointment of Corps Sergeant Major RLC. I am truly humbled and feel extremely privileged to be offered this prestigious position and the opportunity to serve you, as your Corps Sergeant Major. It would be remiss of me not to give a massive shout out to my predecessor, Captain Chris Sutherland. Chris worked tirelessly for two years to support our soldiers, their families and encourage an ‘esprit de corps’; often to the detriment of his own personal circumstances. Chris, I wish you and the family all the best on the next chapter.

April commenced with the annual Regimental Sergeant Majors’ Cadre taking place in Worthy Down.

Thirteen highly talented Warrant Officers attended. The week was full of rich discussion, debates, enhancing cohesion, and preparing them suitably for their formidable appointments at regimental duty.

Good luck to you all.

As we all know, May and June enabled us to witness two extremely monumental events. Firstly, we had Operation GOLDEN ORB, the coronation of His Majesty’s King Charles III. 34 personnel (Officers and Soldiers) from twelve different trade groups had a once in a lifetime opportunity to be on parade in London witnessing our King being formally throned. And as you will read later in this magazine, many of you worked tirelessly behind the scenes providing the real life support, transport and movement control that made that parade and the ceremonial possible. A fantastic job, well done.

Secondly, we formally celebrated our thirtieth birthday at the home of

our Corps in Worthy Down. A total of 600 personnel marched through the City of Winchester, the largest marching contingent in its history, with a further 1,800 personnel attending the Thanksgiving Service in the historic Winchester Cathedral, and then celebrating in style at the open day and party in the park later that evening. A massive well done to every single soldier who put themselves forward to be part of the planning, administrative support and to those who actively took part. It is because of your selfless commitment, dedication, and relentless work ethic, both events were resounding success stories.

I will close by mentioning four items; the ‘respite holiday scheme’ that our benevolence fund supports is going from strength to strength.

To date, we have managed to support 35 family holidays since May, with a further 25 planned for summer and autumn.The ‘apprenticeship scheme’ is of extreme value to our soldiers.

However, it is currently being undervalued and not being subscribed to its full potential. I implore the chain of command to invest in a strategy which enables our soldiers to maximise this offer. A review into our ‘dress regulations’ is underway.This will not only enhance them but provide unambiguity and simplicity for soldiers to understand the dress standards expected. Lastly, many congratulations to all ‘recipients’ who were named in the recent ‘King’s Honours List.’ It truly is wonderful and inspiring to see soldiers being awarded recognition for their commitment, unwavering devotion and continued support to the greater good, well done.

I hope you all have an amazing summer with your family and friends.

I look forward to visiting you and your Regiments post summer leave.

WO1 S A Muir Corps Sergeant Major RLC

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

Op INTERLINK - Visit of HRH The Prince of Wales

The RLC congratulates the following serving RLC and late RLC officers and soldiers who have received honours and awards since the last publication of The Sustainer.

Operational Awards March 2023 MBE Maj MRH Player Maj LF Shepherd KCVS Captain LMM Powell Private HJ Dear The King’s Birthday Honours List 2023

On 22 Mar 23, RLC personnel deployed in Poland on Op INTERLINK, had the honour of playing host to HRH The Prince of Wales.

His visit predominantly focused on meeting the rotation of UK service personnel that were working within the Logistic Enabling Node (LEN) SHQ and LEN(Poland); however, the visit also gave the Prince a chance to meet Ukrainian and Polish counterparts as well as civilian enablers. His Royal Highness had time to meet and interact with a large cross section of the workforce, including the non RLC cap badge service personnel and the RAF movements team that assist in the daily operation of the LEN. Not only was the visit an opportunity for His Royal Highness to meet the

individuals involved and understand their roles within the operation, but also to gain a grasp of the logistic processes that occur within the LEN. Due to the keen and forthcoming attitude displayed by the soldiers in attendance on the day, His Royal Highness came away with both. It was a successful afternoon and an occasion that will live long in the memory for all involved, especially for the Ukrainian representatives present, for whom it was particularly poignant.

Currently under Op INTERLINK, there are three LENs operating in across the breadth of Eastern Europe, which fall under the command of the LEN SHQ in Poland. You can read more about the RLC’s involvement in Op INTERLINK on pages 22 and 23.

CBE Brig AC Luedicke OBE Col TJ Symonds MBE Lt Col JL Brown Maj PJ Cornish Maj R Marshall WO1 A Salihu WO2 JJ Du Toit WO2 DC Penny Cpl WJ Ross KVRM Captain DG Burgess VR

The Felix Festival The Felix Festival 2023, is taking place at the Hop Chapel located at the Broadtown Brewery, Broad Town, SN4 7RB. The event is taking place for the first time since lockdown and is in a brandnew location.

With free camping available starting from 15 Sep it's a fantastic opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable festival experience and enjoy live music from talented artists from 2pm until midnight. In addition, there will be an on-site

bar, catering and breakfast will be served on Sunday morning.

Now in its twelfth year, the Felix Fund charity is dedicated to providing financial assistance and welfare support to current and former military personnel who have conducted or assisted with EOD & Search operations for the British Military and SO15 EOD & Counter Terrorism Policing.

For more information visit: https://www.felixfund.org.uk/ felix-festival-2023/

On 20 May 23, Pte Victoria Moxon, an RLC Driver with 13 Sqn 2 Med Regt RAMC had the honour of carrying The Royal British Legion Women’s Section Lambourn Branch Standard at the RBL Annual Conference 2023 in Torquay.

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THE SUSTAINER | NEWS On 2 Jan 1946 at the ‘North Savernake Sidings’ near Marlborough, eight soldiers of The RLC’s Forming Corps lost their lives, and a number more suffered injury when 200 tons of ammunition loaded on a train, exploded. Members of the National Fire Service and Great Western Railway risked their lives to prevent far more massive ammunition explosion that would have destroyed a large part of the town.

On 23 Apr 23, the Master General of Logistics and Mayor of Marlborough unveiled a memorial under High Walls in New Road Marlborough to the soldiers of The RLC Forming Corps who lost their lives.

A team led by Col (Retd) Ed Newman, historian Neil Stevens and Marlborough builder Roddy Millar raised the funds to create the memorial with grants from The RLC Association, Marlborough Town Council, Marlborough History Society, The Kennet Valley at War Trust, Sam MacArthur of

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Savernake Memorial

Ramsbury Stonemasons - who inscribed the stone.

The creation of the memorial was supported by The RLC Heritage committee, the RLC Museum and the unveiling event was made possible thanks to support from 9 Regt RLC, the Royal British Legion and Marlborough Town Council. The event was attended by around 500 members of the public and the

Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire.

Many relatives of those involved in the events of that day came back to Marlborough for the unveiling.

David Moore, who emigrated to Canada 50 years ago, travelled back with members of his family to witness the unveiling. His father, Harold Moore was one of the GWR railwaymen awarded a BEM (British Empire Medal) for their role in saving much of the town.

singles. Following the round robin, the tournament continued with both cup and plate competitions, ensuring players of all standards had a chance for silverware. Special congratulations go to Pte Alice Lane and SSgt Myles Smythers, winners of the Womens’ and Mens’ Singles Championships respectively.

The championships closed with the inter-unit doubles final, with a large crowd witnessing 7 Regt and 27 Regt compete in a hotly contested match. It could have gone either way, and with the momentum swinging back and forth, 7 Regt ultimately claimed the championship.

RLC Tennis The RLC Tennis Championships took place over 22-25 May in perfect conditions at the Aldershot Tennis Centre. Over 40 players from across the Corps attended, with all displaying the friendly competitive spirit that embodies the best of Army sport.

The event proved a great opportunity to bring new players to the fore, with some gaining their first experience of competitive tennis. The round robin format ensured all players benefitted from several rounds of matches, competing in both doubles and The 29th RLC Individual and Inter Unit Squash Championships will take place during the period 17-19 Oct 23. The venue will be Winchester Racquets and Fitness, Bereweeke Road, Winchester, Hants, SO22 6AP. The competition categories include: Open, Plate, Closed, Veterans, Ladies and Inter Unit.

Further details are available from 8

The 29th RLC Squash Championships WO2 I Butterworth, Secretary RLC Squash Rackets Club. Contact email: Ian.Butterworth386@mod.gov.uk Entry forms should be completed and returned with the appropriate entry fees no later than Fri 15 Oct 21.

Players can register online by following the link from the QR code.

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NEWS | THE SUSTAINER

30 on RLC30

Embracing the Spirit of Fiji

By Sgt Rigamoto LRS SNCO F Coy, 3 RANGER Bn In a vibrant celebration of diversity and unity, on the 22 Mar 23, 3 RANGER Battalion embraced the spirit of Fiji as it embarked on a captivating journey into the heart of Fijian culture. Following the triumph of the previous Caribbean and Nepalese themed cultural lunches, the Bn’s Fijian community took centre stage, treating their fellow soldiers to a mesmerizing cultural awareness lunch.

A dedicated team of Fijian soldiers donned their traditional attire and worked tirelessly to create a feast for the senses. Led

by SSgt Asha Gurung and the RLC Catering Team, composed of Cpls Mpate and Dewis-Goodman, along with LCpls Pun and Jones, demonstrated their culinary expertise through mouth-watering

delicacies like roast chicken, flavourful curries, refreshing Kokoda, and Cassava and Dalo.

This was served by WO2 Bevu, CSgt Yabia, and LCpl Tagirara.

For the more adventurous, WO2 (CSM) Nakalevu and Sgt Kamaiwaka extended an invitation to savour the traditional Fijian drink, yaqona/kava/grog. The Officers’ Mess enthusiastically led the way in the festivities, with the sound of "Bula!" echoing through the air.

The Fijian community radiated their deep-rooted values of family, respect, and community throughout the event. They embraced their fellow soldiers with open arms, generously sharing their cherished customs, and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of the entire unit.

The event served as a reminder of the power of diversity, illustrating how understanding and celebrating different cultures can enrich the fabric of a united community.

RLC Orienteering triumphs in Europe In June, RLC representatives achieved remarkable success at the European Masters Games Sprint Orienteering Champs in Tampere, Finland.

Col Lucy Giles secured a gold medal in the W50 category, closely followed by Maj Claire Sapwell in Silver. In the Male 50 Class, Maj Richard Barrett also won gold. The Army Orienteering team competed in the middle-distance event across the challenging Finnish terrain, followed by a well-deserved rest day before the long distance race on 30 Jun 23.

Pte Bolt, an RLC Movement Controller from 29 Regt, celebrated his 30th birthday on the Corps' official 30th birthday on 5 Apr 23.

He marked the occasion while deployed on Op SOREHAWK in Mali as part of the Theatre Drawdown Unit tasked with redeploying the Long Range Reconnaissance Group from its UN Mission.

This monumental task, following a parliamentary announcement for the extraction of UK troops from Mali, involved over 20 C-17 flights, a Team Leidos contracted convoy of 130 ISO containers, more than 100 vehicles, and the redeployment of 264 personnel. With Logistic Supply Specialists from 6 Regt, Movement Controllers from 29 Regt, and a Port Operator from 17 P&M Regt, the operation required accurate accounting, thorough rehabilitation, comprehensive reconciliation, teamwork and responsibility at all levels, and ensuring thousands of items were efficiently returned to the Strategic Base.

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC30

The Royal Logistic Corps formally recognised its relocation to Winchester Garrison and marked its 30th anniversary on Thursday 1 Jun 23.

While the 30th anniversary of the Corps’ formation was on 5 Apr 23, in order to take advantage of the June weather, coincide the celebrations with school half-term to enable more of the Corps’ family to attend and combine RLC30 with the granting of the freedom of the City of Winchester and Corps Open Day, an ambitious whole day event, conceived by the MGL, was planned and co-ordinated by Lt Col Louise Stewart and her RLC30 team, working out of RHQ The RLC at Worthy Down.

The day began with a series of civic engagement events

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comprising a high-profile parade through the centre of Winchester, marking the granting of the freedom of the City to The RLC, a Service of Thanksgiving in Winchester Cathedral followed by civic and VVIP receptions in Winchester and Worthy Down.

Over 500 members of the Corps were on parade, including a cross-section from Regular and Reserve Units, RLC Veterans and RLC badged Army Cadets. As can be seen in the unit reports in this edition, participating units began

putting in the hours on the drill square for several weeks prior to the event in preparation for the big day. In the days leading up to 1 Jun, Worthy Down camp saw its population swelled with RLC parade personnel who gathered for a series of parade rehearsals conducted under the watchful eyes of the Corps SM, assisted by two drill instructors from ITC Catterick.

The parade formed up at Peninsular Barracks in Winchester at 0300hrs on 1 Jun for a full rehearsal before participants changed into No2 dress ready for the 0900hrs form up. Commanded by the Colonel RLC, Col Pat Allen ADC, and led by the pipes and drums of 157 Regiment RLC, the parade stepped off at 0930hrs with swords drawn and bayonets fixed

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and marched through Winchester City centre to the Guildhall where it formed up and awaited the arrival of The RLC’s Colonel in Chief, HRH The Princess Royal.

The parade then received formal addresses from the Mayor of Winchester, Councillor Angela Clear, and the Colonel-in-Chief. Her Royal Highness inspected the parade accompanied by the MGL, Maj Gen Simon Hutchings OBE and she used the opportunity to speak to many of the officers and soldiers on parade. The parade then marched past the Guildhall, concluding at the entrance of Winchester Cathedral.

The Service of Thanksgiving in Winchester Cathedral was attended by HRH The Princess Royal and was conducted by the

RLC30 | THE SUSTAINER

Right Reverend David Williams, Bishop of Basingstoke and the Reverend Michael Parker KHC CF, the Chaplain General.

It recognised the 30-year history of The RLC and featured a number of prominent speakers. Maj Gen DL Burden CB CVO CBE (Director General Logistic Support (Army) 1993-1995) 2Lt Annie Peerless (4 Regt RLC) and WO1 (Corps SM) Chris Sutherland read the lessons.

Lt Col Nicola Roberts (HQ Fd Army), Reverend Stephen Pratt (Chaplain DCLPA) WO1 (SSM) L

Kidman (11 EOD&S Regt RLC) and Sgt Prince Yeboah-Asuamah (DSLA) offered prayers. The hymns were accompanied by the Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas and musical interludes were performed by the Winchester Military Wives Choir and The RLC Fijian Choir led

by WO2 (SSM) LQ Tokonibau (9 Regt RLC).

As is befitting an event staged by the British Army’s logisticians, a massive logistical effort was required to transport many hundreds of Service Personnel, VIPs, guests and event attendees into and out of Winchester, adhering to tight time lines. This effort was delivered by 20 and 44 Sqns using military transport and a fleet of buses and coaches hired in for the event. Shuttle transport

Lt Gabe Thomas (33Sqn, 4RLC) I deployed as one of the three officers leading the 4 Regt RLC contingent on the Corps’ 30th anniversary parade. It was an exceptional privilege to be part of such a significant event which was evidenced by the huge public turn out and the number of senior officers and dignitaries in attendance. As Logisticians it is rare that we are able to partake in public duties of these types and it gave a much greater appreciation for the hard work that is required to produce such spectacles.

Working as part of such a tight knit team was equally rewarding, seeing the effort and enthusiasm that the troops put in was uplifting. On the run up to the parade everyone clocked up many miles of marching - plus some very sore arms later culminating an impeccable display of military professionalism and teamwork during the nighttime rehearsals in the city, and on the parade itself.

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THE SUSTAINER | RLC30

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Major Tony Shearan Regimental Quartermaster 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC As soon as I heard that 13 AASR was providing a contingent to the Freedom of Winchester Parade as part of RLC30, I volunteered to lead it. I was a newly titled RLC Private soldier (ex Dvr in the RCT) on the 1993 RLC formation parade. This time, when the Colonel-in-Chief took to the steps of Winchester’s Guildhall, I was a major and stood front and centre of a contingent who wore the maroon berets of 16 BCT and the green berets of the Cdo Bde. It was truly an honour to be leading the contingent and the day for me was incredibly special due to me being at the birth of The RLC. The parade was so poignant for me for other reasons. My own personal pride of leading soldiers was obvious but also in recognition of what The RLC had offered throughout my career. In the last 30 years The RLC has provided the tools to better myself, the opportunity to travel, and to challenge myself both physically and mentally. It was in acknowledgement of the mates still serving, their families and those who have left but still watch from afar. I have witnessed regiments and sub units form, disband and reform and I have deployed on a plethora operations wearing a RLC cap badge. I have seen RLC’s brand, shaky at first, get evermore stronger and now one of the best recognised within the British Army.

from Worthy Down camp to Winchester, via satellite car parks started in the early morning and continued well into the evening.

Event catering at Worthy Down was provided by Sodexo and Chefs and trainees from the Food Services Training Wing.

The Community (Corps) Open Day for 3,000 people specifically targeted the breadth and depth of the talent within The RLC, promoting the aspects of diversity, sport, STEM and sustainability, representative of the modern Army and The RLC. Set up around The RLC Museum at Worthy Down, the STEM Village had representation from the Driver Communication Specialist Trade (interactive radio display), Driver Air Despatch Trade,

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Ammunition Technician Trade (bottle rockets), Chef Trade (cooking demonstration), Driver and Logistic Specialist (Supply) Trade, Petroleum Operator Trade, Photographer Trade (interactive media), Mariner / Marine Engineer Trades (work boat display), Reserve Unit 165 Regt (recruitment stand), the Army Education Group (wooden tank building) Commando Logistic Regiment (future supply capabilities) and a display of the future vehicles of the British Army. The RLC Nurture

Team was also on hand to provide information and support for recruits and potential recruits thinking about joining the Corps.

The main arena, stage and messing facilities were set up on the Worthy Down sports pitches and visitors enjoyed displays from the RLC Riders, the Extreme Bike Show, local falconers, 10 QOGLR’s Kukri Dancers, the Worthy Down Rock Band, The RLC Silver Stars parachute display team and The RLC Corps of Drums. Other attractions included veteran’s charity stands, RLC Esports, an African drum workshop, a funfair and stilt walkers.

The open day transitioned to an open open-air concert which concluded at 2130hrs. Visitors partied the evening away to music

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RLC30 | THE SUSTAINER

Cpl Andrew Maycock 32 Squadron 6 Regiment RLC Firstly, what a fantastic experience and an absolute honour it was to be part of this great celebration.

Being part of it was an incredibly proud lifetime achievement, especially giving a salute to HRH The Princess Royal. The day overall was amazing, starting off with a parade around Winchester followed by a Service of Thanksgiving at Winchester Cathedral, where we had a fantastic performance from different musicians and VIP speeches. I can certainly say everyone who took part did themselves proud! After the service, the celebrations moved to Worthy Down which was a really great opportunity to meet fellow members of the Corps and enjoy a few drinks in the glorious weather. As the day turned to night, it turned into an open-air concert which brought everybody even closer, and the spectacular firework display - which certainly took everyone by surprise - gave us great memories of the event.

played by Ministry of Sound DJ, Oopsie Daisey and live bands included, Dance Nation, Helix and Hounds and Jon Clare. At 2200hrs the event finale was a spectacular firework display.

The 1 Jun 23 RLC30 event was a huge undertaking and there are far too many people involved in its planning, organisation and execution to thank individually, but needless to say there was an amazing effort from all involved in the planning and execution. There is no doubt that the day achieved its aim of firmly establishing The Royal Logistic Corps in its new home of Winchester Garrison, something that was not possible during the two years following the closure of Deepcut thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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THE SUSTAINER | CARMEN COMPANY

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The Worshipful Company of Carmen - 30 Years of a thriving relationship

By Lt Col (Retd) Richard Castle, Defence Liaison Officer Those of you not familiar with The Carmen, you might be asking: what is The Carmen and what is its association with The Royal Logistic Corps? What are the Carmen’s Defence Awards?

This article hopes to answer these questions and give you more information about this historic London Livery Company.

The Worshipful Company of Carmen is the 77th of 111 London Livery companies, but the only company specifically associated with transport and logistics. We are very proud of our association with HM Forces, an association that goes back to the start of Napoleonic Wars when The Carmen offered the Government 420 carts and 1,000 horses. Indeed, I often wonder when I see the famous Battle of Waterloo painting “The Royal Waggon Train at Hougoument Farm”, depicting desperately needed ammunition arriving for the 3rd Regiment of Foot Guards, whether the cart or the horses, driven by Pte Joseph Brewer, were provided by The Carmen?

Today we have close relationships with all three Services and the senior logisticians of each act as Honorary Assistants to the Court, our governing body. The holders of these prestigious appointments are currently RAdm Andy Kyte CB (Chief Naval Logistics Officer and the future Chief of Defence Logistics and Support in the rank of VAdm), Maj Gen Simon Hutchings OBE (Master General of Logistics) and AVM Richard Hill CBE (Senior Logistician (RAF)).

The association with The Royal Logistic Corps started with the Royal Corps of Transport in 1975 and carried over on the Corps’ formation in 1993. Like many other Livery companies, The Carmen has formal associations with various 14

units across all three Services. For many years we have been affiliated with 19 Tank Transporter Squadron RLC (The Carmen’s) and in 2021 we formed an affiliation with 151 Regiment RLC. We are proud that the late Lt Col Paul Holder RLC held the prestigious Master’s appointment for the year 2014-15 – the first serving officer to be appointed Master of any London Livery company since the Second World War. Here is a recent quote about The Carmen from the Master General of Logistics, Maj Gen Simon Hutchings OBE. “I remain grateful and appreciative of the close relationship that we, as Army logisticians, maintain with The Carmen. Whilst the ancestry of the Carmen may be steeped in history and tradition, their outlook is fresh and modern. Of the many learnings I have gained during my military career, there is one in particular that I find myself employing and drawing upon consistently. And that is the one that recognises the importance of networks and friendships in defining success.

Whether that’s in a business or

personal capacity, a strong network of like-minded people is a powerful combination to have and draw upon when things are challenging.

That’s The Worshipful Company of Carmen. If you’re someone remotely interested in the importance of transport and logistics there is no better organisation to have as friends.”

The Carmen hold a Defence Awards Dinner each Spring when the very best logisticians from the Royal Navy, the Army and the Royal Air Force receive their prestigious awards. Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, the Corps’ Colonel-in-Chief, served as Master of The Carmen in 1986-87 and, as usual, presents these awards personally. Although formal presentations are made during the dinner itself, the recipients are also presented to Her Royal Highness in a more informal setting earlier in the evening. The 2023 dinner was held in Plaisterer’s Hall on 21 Feb. The photograph above shows Maj Gen Hutchings, entertaining guests, including the Corps’ Colonel-inChief, albeit that she was wearing the uniform of an Admiral!

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CARMEN COMPANY | THE SUSTAINER

The photos below show the Royal Logistic Corps recipients receiving their prestigious awards: The Worshipful Company of Carmen is open to all within the Corps and special membership rates apply to those serving, both Regular and Reserve. We are particularly keen for young soldiers and officers up the age of 36 to join us as Associate Freemen, or anyone, regardless of age, can apply to join as a Freeman,

hopefully then becoming a Freeman of The City of London and applying to upgrade their membership with us to become a Liveryman.

For information about The Carmen, including details of how to join us, please look at the website: www.thecarmen.co.uk Alternatively, please email the Defence Liaison Officer, Lt Col (Retd) Richard Castle at: defenceliaisonofficer@thecarmen.co.uk

8 The Carmen’s Sword of Honour - Lt Angharad Hunter,

8 The Carmen’s RLC Soldier of the Year Award - Pte (now LCpl)

8 The Carmen’s 19 Tank Transporter Squadron RLC (The

8 The Carmen’s 151 Regiment RLC Award - WO2 Kareen Thomas

9 Regiment RLC

Carmen’s) Award - Cpl Mathew Humphreys

Revan Gurung, 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC

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 | CAREER MANAGEMENT

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YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL RLC SOLDIERS Lt Cols: Lt Col Tim BECK LE Offrs: Lt Col Paul EATON Res Offrs: Maj Mark ORR Majs (Snr): Maj Sue MULHERN Majs (Jnr): Maj Steph COLES Capts: Maj Chris PFLEIDERER Capts (Des): Maj Becky RITCHIE Lts: Leigh MOTHERWELL It has been a while since the APC CSS Career Management Branch (RLC Officer wing) had a full complement of Career Managers (CMs). This marks an opportunity to review the last 12-24 months and identify opportunities to improve our career management service in line with the APC’s programme of modernisation.

What better place to start than by reviewing the career management experiences of those we manage.

The CM Survey 2022 Last year, the RLC Officer Wing conducted an internal review by means of a Career Management Survey which was sent to all Regular RLC officers, OF1-OF4. The intent was to gain valuable insight into the perceptions and

understanding of current career management processes and practices. Thank you to all who took the time to complete the survey. We received 822 responses from the cohort which, given current commitments, is a respectable 65% return.

Overall, responses were positive with the vast majority of the RLC officer cohort feeling satisfied with the CM support they had received.

That said, there is always room for improvement!

A Likert scale was used to answer most questions, but the free text feedback box at the end of the survey provided the richest data. 48% of the 822 respondents left feedback points and this data was coded to identify themes to be addressed. Respite came in the form of the odd amusing feedback comments such as “Potato”, “I don’t want to!” or “I only hear from my CM when they want a PPP off me,” …funny old thing!

The positive 43% of the free text feedback was positive. Reassuringly, RLC officers have felt well supported by their

CMs but there was a general consensus that this was not consistent throughout careers and is (CM) personality driven. It was pleasing to hear that most officers have found their CMs approachable and had received trustworthy advice, which they felt had their best interests at heart. Despite sentiment that cohorts were too large for CMs to understand individual career aspirations, the data suggested that the majority of officers were content.

Unsurprisingly, there was a link between those who felt supported by their CM and those who were satisfied with their more recent assignments.

Areas for development 57% of the free text feedback suggested that, in JSP 757 terms, there were “areas for development!” The Army’s career management system is founded on the boarding process. Often, the issues raised led back to appointment boarding. Trust in the career management system is the Military Secretary’s vital ground and there is a perception that this has been eroded over time. It was actually the most common complaint from the 13% of officers who rated RLC Officer Wing less than 3 out of 5. Even those who had positive career management experiences doubted the fairness and transparency of some boarding processes.

Appointment boarding The last thing CMs want to do is direct members of their cohort into assignments. A measure of CM success is how well the needs of the organisation and individual are balanced.

In a sense CMs are “PID fillers”, but selections are made after careful consideration and deliberation. This is done in conjunction with the post prioritisation, which is directed by HLBs, not the APC. Invariably, there will be ‘Non-Discretionary’, ’Critical’ and ‘Must’ fill appointments which are not popular and have no

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volunteers. Where possible, these appointments are rolled to future boards or, where appropriate, presented as AHR opportunities.

Despite every effort to select runners for their WL preferences, there will be those who won’t be. It is unavoidable. Appointments are considered in priority order – those “Critical” fill appointments with no volunteers will have the most appropriate selection made from the whole pool of runners, based primarily on KSE-B. As the No4/No5 E1 (RLC) Boards sit first, all runners to that particular appointment board will be considered, regardless of preference for E1 or E2 (pan-Army).

Where possible, E1 and E2 preference is facilitated but holistic consideration for the career aspirations and domestic circumstances for all runners informs this decision.

In the survey, the E1 Boarding process received the most scrutiny, although there were other RD boards which had honourable mentions.

Previously, these boards followed a similar boarding process; CMs would make decisions and these decisions would be ratified by the relevant Secretariat. We maintain that the boarding process has always been conducted thoroughly and fairly but it is recognised that this method could leave the process vulnerable to abuse.

CM Portal We hope that the introduction of the CM Portal and the move to a standardised (Boarding manual compliant) boarding process pan Army has improved trust in the career management system. E1, OF2 ATO, and SCRD appointments

CAREER MANAGEMENT | THE SUSTAINER

are now all boarded, each board consisting of five members, one of which is appointed as the Chair (typically OF5) and all boards include an independent (non-RLC) member. Board Members have access to a runner’s full AR history, supporting comments for each appointment, and general profile comments. The latter gives individuals the opportunity to articulate their career aspirations as well as any personal and domestic circumstances they wish the board to consider. Board members, not the CMs, interpret what runners want and where they best fit the current jobs on offer, with APC CMs providing secretariat support.

Out of Committee (OOC) selections were a common source of frustration. Authorised for compelling reasons by the relevant Secretariat, not CMs, OOC selections are not usually made once a jobs list is live. Decisions are encouraged to be made in committee unless the circumstances are exceptional.

Changes to jobs lists are frustrating (for CMs too) so, to avoid disappointment, it is always worth cross referencing our PPPs with the final jobs list before it closes.

Lines of communication Understanding plays a pivotal role in the perception of career management. There appears to be uncertainty about processes.

Whether that be how boards work, how promotion quotas are decided and applied, or simply when it is appropriate to engage with your CM. The F2F career management touchpoints have tailed off since COVID-19 and we have relied on online sources, such as MS Web and the RLC DOWNREP, to spread

career management news. This is a fundamental shift which relies on an initiative-taking nature to pull information. Getting back on the road to visit units is certainly an aspiration moving forward; the data was clear that this would be welcomed.

Successful officer career management is heavily reliant on the Adjutants and the CoC for the more junior cohort. More regular, consolidated, updates from CMs will improve awareness of career pathways, timelines, and associated processes. The Adjutant Symposium has recently been centralised and delivered by HQ RLC, which will certainly help cohere the career management message across the Corps. For the more senior end of the officer cohort, continuity of CM and consistency of advice is more the concern. Getting consistency in key appointments across Defence relies on healthy competition to make appropriate selections – rare for CM appointments.

If CMs are gapped, whether that be due to trawl or low fill priority, it is the decision of the HLB, not the Corps. Moving forward, gapped appointments are inevitable but there is centralised support on offer, such as MS5 Webinars, which reduces the burden on CMs. My Career App lets users search and favourite jobs for future consideration, helping individuals identify more bespoke career aspirations specific to the individual.

Summary Thank you again to all who participated in the CM Survey. We will strive to improve awareness and understanding by seeking to improve lines of communication.

Career Management is a privilege, and the team want to deliver the best service possible. Please continue to engage with the process, attend webinars, seek information from MS Web, and gain insight from mentors. CMs will always make themselves available to offer the most current context and help shape those insights into workable plans…to be delivered over the course of a career, and within the limitations of each board, of course!

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THE SUSTAINER | CONNECTED CHEFS

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Keeping RLC Chef’s connected…

On Defence Connect The Chef trade is one of the founding trades of The RLC and the most dispersed, with chefs working in units and formations across Defence. In a bid to utilise technology, to keep the trade group in-touch and current, ‘Connected Chef’ has been launched on Defence Connect.

The platform is a secure and innovative tool designed to keep junior chefs connected with the Corps and wider trade. It aims to enhance professional development, is a place for networking, as well as staying in touch with friends.

Additionally, the platform is forward thinking and adaptive, catering to the needs of its members and followers. Currently still in development, the ‘Connected Chef’ will also focus on key areas such as trade courses, adventurous training and sport, education and development, and current affairs within the trade.

For trade courses, the ‘Connected Chef’ will provide information on course dates and pre-requirements, ensuring The RLC’s chefs have access to the necessary information for career progression. Additionally, it will offer updates on upcoming events and available courses for those interested in specialising in a particular activity within adventurous training and sport.

In terms of education and development, the ‘Connected Chef’ will provide accreditation advice, apprenticeship updates, and opportunities for SLC and ELCs. It will also offer information on industry placements, allowing chefs to explore various career opportunities.

Staying up-to-date with current affairs within the trade is crucial, and the ‘Connected Chef’ will provide the latest Field Army updates and address capability challenges. Furthermore, it will offer mental wellbeing signposting, ensuring our chefs have access to the support they may need.

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Lastly, the ‘Connected Chef’ will feature a Head of Trade Forum, providing a platform for open discussions and sharing of ideas amongst chefs.

So far platform has gained significant traction, with 12% of trade chefs following it, which equates to 161 followers and 130 members.

The architects of The Connected Chef, Sgt Kirk Davis (The RLC’s HQ Officers’ Mess Events Manager) and SSgt John Bisset (28 Engineer Regiment (C-CBRN)) say: “We are confident that the ‘Connected Chef’

8 Sgt Davis

8 SSgt Bisset will greatly benefit our junior chefs, keeping them connected, informed and empowered in their professional journey. We would like to extend an invitation to any volunteers who are interested in joining our team. Members are encouraged to blog, share images of their day-to-day life in their regiments, and connect their catering department pages to the ‘Connected Chef.’ We would also like to highlight that this profile can also serve as an online CV for the platform, so please share the link to the online Sustainer. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting development.”

Defence gateway Jive: https://bit.ly/3XZnbNs Group: The Connected Chef: https://bit.ly/44wwpn3

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EXERCISE | THE SUSTAINER

Exercise ARMY SUSTAINER 2023 167 Catering Support Regiment RLC hosted this year’s Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 2023 on Armed Forces Day. The event showcased various culinary challenges for regular and reserve Army Chefs in both live cook and field catering disciplines. The Regt’s emerging priorities throughout the event were the culinary arts team competing, VIP functions and logistical support which was overseen by WO2 (SQMS) Whitby and his team.

Prior to the event, the regimental culinary arts team carried out recipe development and higher culinary skills to meet the strict judging criteria. Sgt Young took up the challenge of one of the toughest catering disciplines, entering the Senior Chef of the Year event. It is extremely demanding and reserved for experienced and accomplished caterers to deliver, in 90 minutes, a three-course plated restaurant meal for two covers on OFCS equipment.

His menu consisted of an innovative asparagus ice cream and chicken broth followed by a quirky take on a roast dinner with a chocolate fondant as dessert. The level of commitment and dedication he showed to achieve perfection in this task resulted in Sgt Young being named the Senior Chef of the Year.

SSgt Johnson led the improvised field catering team eagerly supported by Cpl West and Pte

8 The Improvised Field Team winners SSgt Johnson, Cpl West and Pte Alexander – with Commander 104 Bde and Col (Retd) Appleton

8 Sgt N Young (Senior Chef of the Year winner) and the Commander 104 Bde

Alexander. This event tested their improvised field catering core skills, using a range of cooking equipment, with wood as the fuel source, to produce a two-course meal to sustain 20 deployed personnel. The event was made even harder by the addition of a mystery box of ingredients which tests the catering knowledge and repertoires of all competitors to produce a high culinary catering dining experience. They produced fresh breads and pasta dishes as part of the menu provision and their ability to work as team and communicate effectively was clearly evident to the judges. Their hard work and efforts duly paid off by winning the event outright thanks to their commitment and professionalism shown throughout.

The static classes showcased the chocolate skills work of Sgt Wilson and L/Cpl Marriot with the temperature being one of many inhibiting factors they had to contend with. L/Cpl Marriot excelled in this event and achieved a well-deserved third placing in her first major static work in a competition. Sgt Wilson provided an excellent display narrowly missing out on a place, but her mentorship to the team throughout the event was a major factor in its success. Cpl Rogers was the overall winner in the Novelty Cake section, producing an inspired and technical nautical themed contribution at this year’s event.

A special mention goes to the following 167 Regt personnel.

Firstly WO1 (SSM) Oberhoffer, the Regt’s Technical Training Officer,

who managed and mentored the competitors throughout the whole event. His efforts culminated in the excellent results the Regt achieved in 2023. Ex ARMY SUSTAINER was managed and supported by WO1 (SSM) Stones, SSgts Higgs, West and Symes-Clarke, Sgts Morton and Hayball, L/Cpls Hennessey and Phillips, and Ptes Robinson and Martin. The winners and competitors will now go through to compete at this year’s Ex JOINT CATERER 2023 Tri-Service event.

167 Regt RLC’s Ex ARMY SUSTAINER roll of honour: 5 Senior Chef of the Year Winner – Sgt Nigel Young.

5 Improvised Field Catering Winners – SSgt Johnson, Cpl West and Pte Alexander 5 Novelty Cakes first placeCpl Rogers.

5 Centre Piece Works in Chocolate third place – L/Cpl Marriot 5 Centre Piece Works in Chocolate – Sgt Wilson.

8 L/Cpl Marriot (Static Chocolate Works Display 3rd place)

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THE SUSTAINER | OP GOLDEN ORB

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20 Transport Squadron RLC was intimately involved in the planning and execution of transport in London to support the Coronation of HM King Charles III. Following the funeral of the late Queen in September 2022, London District began planning for the new monarch’s coronation. 20 Sqn was absorbed into the planning team to directly provide SME guidance to the headquarters on transport provision within London. OC Charlie Frost and Ops Officer Elliot Barker worked alongside the staff to cohere transport requirements for all London District subordinate units.

With the London transport plan taking shape, 20 Sqn was the critical point of liaison between London District (JMC L) and 101 Log Bde (JMC Log). A joint transport plan was created between both organisations to incorporate all movement from concentration areas and transport for London-based units and non-military organisations. This formed the basis for all transport requirements in the build-up to the King’s Coronation, as well as the day itself. It allowed 20 Sqn to inform multiple agencies to enable effective policing of approved routes. This included transit to and from railheads to support the insertion of

20 Transport Squadron RLC: Op GOLDEN ORB

8 Sgt Mooncroft briefs Pte Samuel on his route to the Tower of London

troops via rail, which was wellpublicised during the event.

During the execution phase of the operation (24 Apr – 6 May 2023), 20 Sqn was based in the London Military Operations Centre (LMOC) in Wellington Barracks. Working alongside partners in London District Headquarters, 20 Sqn provided tracking and assurance of

all transport moves into London, briefing the commanders daily.

20 Sqn adopted a dispersed footprint with drivers and vehicles strategically placed across London and the wider South-East to execute the circa 400 transport tasks for Op GOLDEN ORB, moving 10,680 SP a total distance of 13,250 miles during the operational window.

Outside the LMOC, 20 Sqn personnel were dispersed to deliver effect across various agencies. The most critical were The Royal Household and Metropolitan Police Gold Command.

The Royal Household WO2 Scott Nesbitt WO2 Nesbitt was selected to represent 20 Sqn as the Royal Household Liaison Officer owing to his outstanding performance in the same role during Op LONDON BRIDGE. WO2 Nesbitt engaged with The Royal Mews before the operation’s outset to understand the role’s requirements and how he could best add value. His relationship with Mr McIntyre, Transport Manager of The Royal Mews, was critical to developing his understanding of the nuances of transporting the Royal Family. WO2 Nesbitt offered insights on how to best manage the transport plan, navigate police exclusion zones and balance Mews assets against task requirements. His contributions were noted by both the Crown Equerry and the Royal Operation Lead. He was cited as a critical asset in the execution of The Royal Household’s transport plan. He worked primarily from the Royal Operations Centre in Buckingham Palace. He even managed to gain a spectacular view of the garden moment from his office window above HM The King.

8 Pte Pool, Capt Bass, LCpl Gurung and

Pte Wood were drivers and LOs for the Senior Officer Cohort and Service Chiefs

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OP GOLDEN ORB | THE SUSTAINER

Following the successful completion of the Coronation, WO2 Nesbitt then deployed to Windsor Castle, where he was intimately involved in logistical support to the Coronation concert. He managed all aspects of the load and unloading of acts and VIPs to the concert as well as management of the real estate to support their ingress and egress.

8 WO2 Nesbitt with the Gold State Coach while detached to the Royal Mews

Met Police Gold Command WO2 Ian Winks WO2 Winks worked alongside members of London District

8 WO2 Nesbitt’s view of the Garden Moment from the window above the King’s balcony Headquarters within Met Police Gold Command to deliver overwatch on all military transport moves into London. Using the joint transport plan, he liaised with police officers on the ground to gain access to the total exclusion zone for 20 Sqn and 101 Log Bde vehicle moves that otherwise would not have been permitted access. His presence in Gold Command proved particularly invaluable for the movement of the six service chiefs, for which 20 Sqn provided two staff car drivers. His ability to quickly and accurately troubleshoot issues at a tactical level significantly reduced the time military vehicles were held at police checkpoints, assuring timings were met and mitigating the security concerns around high-profile stationary principles.

His contribution to the transport plan’s success was noted by several personalities within both the Met Police and London District Headquarters.

8 Sgt Richardson introduces himself to Maj Gen Ghika

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THE SUSTAINER | OP INTERLINK

Op INTERLINK is the UK contribution to support the delivery of donated ammunition and equipment to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU).

Countries working alone would compete with limited resources to deliver support where a coalition of the willing can maximise use of assets and enhance efficiencies.

The magnitude of the requirement has seen the largest employment of military logistics in Europe since World War 2. The UK, with The RLC at the helm, has led this effort through the International Donor Co-ordination Centre (IDCC), and the three Logistic Enabling Nodes (LENs) located across eastern Europe, since the very start of the conflict. It has been a proven concept which has seen the employment of multi-modal, multi-nodal concepts within international logistics and the deployment of seven trade groups of The RLC. The IDCC HQ is a pan-defence operation to cohere and co-ordinate international donations and acts as the J4 branch of the larger US 3-star led Security Assistance Group - Ukraine (SAG-U) which was established in Nov 22 as relief for 18 Airborne Corps. Between Aug 22 and May 23, the IDCC was led by Headquarters 102

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102 Operational Sustainment Brigade – Op INTERLINK Comd: Brig Tim Crossland COS: Lt Col Dylan Read OBE CSM: Sgt Maj Morten Fosland, Norwegian Army

Operational Sustainment Brigade (102OSB), with 23 contributing nations in order to facilitate and support the demand signals from Ukraine. HQ 102OSB’s initial deployment of six months extended to nine in order to ensure continuity of support to the AFU during a critical phase in their offensive preparation and execution.

Furthermore, the UK provides the battle winning asset to the coalition in its IDCC Mobile Teams (IMT) and enablers; ATs from 11 EOD&S Regt,

8 A donated BMP arriving at a LEN for onward movement to Ukraine

VSS from 17 P&M Regt and Dangerous Goods Consignors from across defence. These teams are held at 24hrs notice and deploy across the globe to LIAISE and RECCE potential donations and facilitate their onward movement to the LENs. Without these teams the level of assurance and speed of delivery of donations would be compromised, risking increased 8 The IDCC HQ, an international coalition of the willing

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OP INTERLINK | THE SUSTAINER

8 A UK delivery of WOLFHOUNDs

enroute across Europe

shortages to the AFU and delays to their counter offenses.

The LEN locations are RLC-led enterprises operating under the IDCC, facilitating the cross-load and delivery of donations from UK and International partners into Ukraine. During the tenure of 102OSB these nodes have been led by teams from 27 Regt RLC, 4 Regt RLC and 13 AAS Regt RLC, along with supporting attachments from across the Corps. Each LEN is multi-modal in nature and operates across dislocated locations throughout the Host Nation AO. Each hub is composed of an RLC Junior Officer, a WO/SNCO and a troop-sized compliment of experts who work to deconflict deliveries and manage the resources at their disposal to overcome logistic challenges. This has often meant working at pace, overcoming multiple language barriers and the changing priorities of stock required urgently in Ukraine to keep pace with the war. This has only been achievable through close liaison with, and support from, the UK Defence Attaché network who are able to co-ordinate effectively with the Host Nation military and wider agencies.

Most recently the LENs successfully facilitated the large inload of kit and equipment that will be used as the ‘fist’ for the next counter offensive. The UK specific contribution to this included the delivery of Challenger 2 MBTs, MASTIFF, BULLDOG, CVRT, CRAAV, AS90 self-propelled guns, HUSKY and associated arms and ammunition. For this epic and rapid movement of platforms, possibly the largest since the first Gulf War, each vehicle had to be loaded and unloaded by VSS from 17 P&M Regt RLC and positioned

for inspection by 6 Bn REME prior to cross-load and onward movement to Ukraine in a competitive timeline.

For many on Op INTERLINK this has proven to be the pinnacle of their military experience. The impact of completing their operational role and witnessing the direct impact that this can have on a country through the cumulative efforts of a combined international force at reach cannot be understated, and as we look to the future of Ukraine and Europe long may the collaboration of effort

continue. The daily international co-ordination, deconfliction and synchronisation with the SAG-U has seen real benefits to the conflict in Ukraine. Below are some key delivery statistics from 102OSB’s 9-month deployment: • Total of 104,000 tonnes in donations • Over 19,000 anti-tank systems • Over 900,000 artillery rounds • Over 1,000 air defence systems • Over 2,200 armoured vehicles • Over 1,800 support vehicles • Over 101,000,000 small arms rounds The RLC, 102OSB and our professional military logisticians have delivered genuine effect to the battle space and have showcased the best of the Corps in its 30th year. And as NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated in February 2023: “Key capabilities like ammunition, fuel and spare parts must reach Ukraine before Russia can seize the initiative on the battlefield. Speed will save lives. It is clear that we are in a race of logistics.”

We Sustain and Slava Ukraini!

8 Challenger 2 Main Battle Tanks enroute from Marchwood to Europe

8 Challenger 2 Main Battle Tanks in Ukraine

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS

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Defence School of Logistics and Administration Lt Col Alex O’Brien RLC, Acting Commandant DSLA DSLA said goodbye to the Commandant, Gp Capt Georgia Williams, in early May. Gp Capt Williams left on promotion to Air Commodore as Head Capability Support at Strategic Command.The HQ escaped for an afternoon to the Tower of London, and the ceremony of keys for her farewell.The team wishes her the very best in her new role.

The DSLA and station continue to be a hive of activity, supporting events, visits, and providing training.The second annual DSLA Awards dinner night took place in April, which saw three highly deserving winners; Fuel Instructor LCpl Halliwell (RLC) - Best New Trainer; Chef Instructor LCS Machin (RN) - Best Trainer Award and CQMS Sgt Bagadu receiving the Outstanding Contribution award. DSLA was honoured that para-Olympian, Ms Rachel Morris, could attend the awards to give a heartfelt and inspiring speech about her road to success.

The School continues to work hard and play hard. Having trained over 11,000 SP across the School during the training year, the School sent its permanent staff away on Ex TRI SKI (skiing in Morzine, France), Ex OBJECTIVE ENABLER (battlefield study to Malta), Ex HERRINGS JUMP (battlefield study to Arnhem) and several other overseas training trips to Canada, Australia, America (US Joint Culinary Centre of Excellence), Germany (US/NATO Joint Contracts course), and Gibraltar (Ex WORTHY WARRIOR).

Furthermore, the School conducted an Honours and Awards ceremony with 19 personnel receiving medals or commendations.This was a highly momentous afternoon celebrated with friends and families.

DSLA has hosted a plethora of visits over the last few months. DCOS Fd Army, Maj Gen Thorpe; The Revd (Gp Capt) Alasdair Nicoll, the Deputy Chaplain-in-Chief (Operations); His Majesty's Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson, Esq; a delegation from the Australian Defence Forces; the Defence Attachés and Brig Cattermole; and Commander Combat Manoeuvre Centre.The visits helped the guests gain a broader understanding of DSLA’s role.The School has hosted some significant events for both the logistics and wider community; RLC30, NATO Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP), Global Air

8 EX Herring Jump

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8 Ex HERRING CHALLENGE

Forces Climate Change Collaboration, National Apprenticeship Bake-Off Week, Ex COMBAT CATERER for local catering colleges, and several events for the Jon Egging Trust. It is always a pleasure to see the wide variety of activities above the routine of delivering training. It has been a fast-paced few months and at time of writing, the team was looking forward to welcoming the new Commandant, Gp Capt Rachel Mawdsley OBE due to arrive from RCDS in August.

Command Wing – CI: Lt Col Rob Williams Troop Commanders' Course 91 – By 2Lt Gethin Chadwick In April, 24 Royal Logistic Corps Troop Commanders finished the 14-week course intended to bridge the gap between The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and the Field Army.

Conducted primarily at Worthy Down Station, new officers undergo four phases of training, each aiming to provide them with the tools necessary to take up their first command appointments.These phases focus on logistic doctrine, transport/driving, tactical operations, and management of RLC soldiers.Troop Commanders undergo various physical training activities, including competing in various military skills events within the station.The crowd favourite is the Herrings VC challenge, consisting of a five kilometre weighted run, command task, DCCT shoot, and military knowledge quiz.

Phase two of the course took place outside Worthy Down Station, at the Defence School of Transport Leconfield, where the Troopies were instructed on CIS, the theory of transport and driving.They left Leconfield with an increased awareness of the work involved in the driver and communication specialist trades. In addition to the practical skills gained, the phase provided an appreciation for movement timings and vehicle capabilities that would prove vital to planning logistic operations.

One of the most anticipated parts of the course was the unit attachments, where the Troopies visit their regiments for the first time.The highlight of my attachment to 10

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8 TCC91 Ex HERRINGS CHALLENGE

QOGLR was experiencing Gurkha outdoor messing and being welcomed to the Regt by Lt Col Sugdon and Major Basantadhoj shortly after. Most importantly, from the attachments,Troop Commanders are able to understand what is expected from them in their respective Regts and return to Worthy Down motivated.

The events and activities that took place alongside the main course content, proved to be highly beneficial.Troop Commanders had the opportunity to engage with key personalities in The RLC and the wider forces in 'fireside chats'.The key personalities included Lt Col Bhundia (CO 9 Regiment), Lt Col Ekman (CO 25 Regiment), and the Corps Sergeant Major,WO1 Sutherland.They all shared valuable experiences with the course and advised the group on leading soldiers.

Another notable event was the debate night between the RLC Troop Commanders, ETS ITT officers, and individuals attending the PODP/PRAMs course (pre-RMAS course for serving soldiers and future officer cadets).This gave us the scope to discuss important topics facing the UK Armed Forces in 2023, ranging from the threat posed by China to diversity and inclusion within the Army. In addition to gaining an improved understanding of such topics, this event gave the cohort opportunities to practice public speaking and present balanced arguments.

To prepare for life in the Officers’ Mess, and so junior officers can organise rewarding activities for the soldiers under their command, the cohort were encouraged to organise events throughout the course.These included

8 TCC91 on Ex TIMBER TRUSS

TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER

8 TCC91 on Ex TIMBER TRUSS

8 TCC91 on Ex TIMBER TRUSS

8 TCC91 visit to 10 QOGLR

sports competitions, mess events, the final course lunch, and dinners outside of camp.Troop Commanders practiced defence writing while also enjoying some downtime.

The most challenging fortnight of the course was when Troop Commanders were introduced to the nuances of the logistic estimate. During this time, troops adjust their ability to plan infantry operations to planning logistic operations.

By the end of a series of TEWTs (tactical exercises without troops) the course cohort felt more comfortable applying the Four Ds of logistics and delivering orders.

The course culminated with Ex TIMBER TRUSS, the summative exercise conducted on Salisbury Plain. In their first exercise as junior officers,Troop Commanders could lead soldiers and put into practice the tactical understanding they developed in Phase 3 of the course.The cohort delivered many orders and conducted challenging logistic actions each day.The exercise enabled the Troop

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS

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Commanders to demonstrate the application of their understanding of logistics in the field and confidently lead soldiers.The exercise could only have taken place with the valuable support from the 9 Regiment RLC. Although much of the development as Troop Commanders will inevitably come from experience, this course is pivotal to starting junior officers on the right foot.

Logistic Specialist Training Wing (LSTW) – CO: Wg Cdr Sam Alexander Defence Petroleum and Specialist Training Squadron (DPSTS) under the LSTW, provided vital fuel support and training to organisations and personnel across Defence throughout April 2023; including simultaneously coordinating and managing the following activities.

Officer Petroleum Course (OPC) exercise – DPSTS’ main effort was the deployment of OPC on Ex FIRST FLOW, introducing officers from the British Army and the RAF, as well as the Omani Air Force and New Zealand and Australian Defence Forces, to the Joint Operational Fuel System, in a deployed environment.

Joint Service Job Evaluation Team (JSJET) - Working with the head of the Pet Op trade and more comprehensive Field Army RLC units, DPSTS successfully hosted the JSJET team on an exercise at Barton Stacey.

Tanker to Tanker exchange - Following the temporary closure of the Defence Fuels Depot in West Moors, DPSTS was required to utilise the civilian fuel tanker to tanker exchange contract via DE&S.This exchange, hosted by the 7 Regt RLC, enabled DPSTS instructors and SET Troops to receive fuel before the JSJET and OPC Ex, from both civilian and military BFCVs. Contingency-packed fuel stocks - Defence contingency packaged fuel stockpiles started to decline as a result of the temporary closure of West Moors. Since DPSTS had the necessary personnel, fuel, and equipment deployed; they were able to replace thousands of litres of F-54, restoring Defence supplies to the predetermined levels.

Support to Ex WESSEX STORM fuel resupply – Throughout Ex FIRST FLOW, DPSTS and the 9 Regt RLC collaborated closely. Upon the conclusion of Ex FIRST FLOW and its closure, instructors transferred the remaining bulk fuel to 9 Regt vehicles, which then supplied units and individual vehicles with diesel in response to Ex WESSEX STORM's high demand and to mitigate the closure of West Moors.

All in all, a hectic and productive month for DPSTS personnel.

Food Service Training Wing - CO Cdr Tom Shaves RN Article by Sgt Ravi Kumar, Chef Instructor, FSTW (L) An inset week at Food Service Training Wing Worthy Down is when all permanent staff, especially chef instructors, can learn something new, pick up a new skill, and plan for the new term.This time, a butchery workshop was organised at FSTW, and MB-F Julien Pursglove, a talented and knowledgeable member of the Worshipful Company of Butchers, served as the host.This was an area of interest for the team, and 12 attended the masterclass.

Butchery improves the experience of cooking meat.The perfect cuts of meat and the suitable cooking method impress the dish.This knowledge helps the chef master the ability to ensure that nothing goes to waste when they work with every part of the animal, from head to tail. From cattle 26

8 FSTW butchery masterclass

to chicken, different cuts of meat can be used in diverse ways. Making wise choices for meat cuts gives a chef the satisfying experience of serving a delicious meat dish. As instructors, possessing this skill set helps ensure that this can be transferred to future military chefs.

The butchery masterclass was successfully delivered with a series of PowerPoint presentations followed by a live demonstration using a lamb carcase.The presentations started with explanations of several breeds of Bovinae (cattle) and sheep and their usage for cooking. It was interesting to learn about various species of animals and their meat cuts and understand why expensive meat cuts are costly.The knowledge of several terms used in the butchery world was fascinating. Mr Pursglove also explained the current UK law and high animal welfare standards, which highlighted the importance that the animals must be respected and treated right before being brought into the slaughterhouse. He had a great passion for fine meat cuts and artisan butchery.

The practical portion of the masterclass began at KCR for the chefs after lunch.The attendees learnt about all the different lamb cuts from Mr Pursglove, as well as what to look for when making a purchase.The course gave participants insight into how to manoeuvre meat skilfully, from fat content to bone density.

Everyone has their preferred technique for boning a lamb.The team was astonished by Mr Pursglove's attention to detail and knife skills in minimising wastage while boning the lamb with ease.The most exciting part of the day for everyone was the practical session.The cohort had the chance to use their newly acquired abilities on a separate carcase, gaining knowledge and confidence regarding the various cuts of lamb.The new skills learnt through this class showed a sense of amazement around the room.The cohort was given the opportunity to use a whole lamb shoulder to practise trimming, boning, rolling, and tying. Mr Pursglove walked them through the cuts and showed them how to cook delectable lamb dishes.

This masterclass added another tool to their skill box.The masterclass was a hub of shared information on unfamiliar butchery terms, cuts of meat, and practical knife skills,

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which can be transferred to their work at FSTW, Worthy Down. All instructors who attended the masterclass walked away with something new. Also, inspired and educated with new skills and knowledge, and in the future, all of them will use the ability to train future chefs.

Supply Training Wing – CI: Lt Col Nick Homer MBE Article by Sgt Tom Adams The Wing maintains its high tempo of delivering supply training across all Tri-Service phases of Logistics Supply.

Sgt Yeboah-Asuamah (SCD) joined forces with Plt Off Collyer (SO3 Ops & Plans) to form a two-member team representing STW at the DCLPA's yearly Ex HERRING CHALLENGE competition.The multi-activity challenge includes a five kilometre weighted march with seven-and-a-half kilos, incorporated with a command task, a Tri-Service knowledge-based evaluation, and a shooting DCCT as the final exercise.The team had an ebullient event posing the second fastest time on the weighted march with 44 minutes.

8 Royal Navy visit to Portsmouth

8 RAF Trainer Force Development Day

8 WO1 Tilney at the RLC Ski Championships

WO1 Doug Tilney deployed to Norway in early December 2022 to participate in the RLC Ski Championships. After a week's race training, the competition began in earnest, with WO1 Tilney competing in all disciplines. Daily events saw the Super G, GS, and Slalom competitions conducted, with WO1 Tilney finishing an impressive 39th out of over 120 competitors.

An outstanding performance by Cpl Beckham saw him selected to represent the UK Armed Forces Sea Angling Team. Competing at the national level against the Sea Match Angling Federation and National Police Team in Norfolk, he finished 26th out of 45 competitors.

Mr Hills, Mr O'Brian, and Sgt Kampala enjoyed a weeklong battlefield study dubbed Ex HERRINGS JUMP (JH) 23 in the Netherlands.The five-day study was both professional and academically stimulating, encouraging members of DSLA to think analytically and critically, and demonstrating how to run an effective and efficient study day. Ex HJ (23) was an immersive exercise into the planning and execution of one of the most daring operations in living memory.

ITTs from RN SC 2204 had a great time visiting Portsmouth Dockyard, where they were able to learn about the history of the Royal Navy as well as see the kind of work, they will be doing at the Waterfront Logistic Support Group. A well-earned break from teaching allowed the RAF Division to travel to London for a Trainer Force Development Day and explore historical sites.

Ms Jolene Hone, who is leaving QM Div after more than five years, was bid farewell by the team.Well-wishers hope she succeeds in her new position at Worthy Down. May brings another staff churn as the senior instructor, Capt Mac McLachlan, and lead CQMS course Instructor,WO2 Mick Sedman, both move on to new pastures. Finally, the squad also extends its congratulations to SSgt Afriyie, who has earned a BSc (Hons) in logistic management from the University of Lincoln. Great effort!

8 SSgt Afriyie

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THE SUSTAINER | FSTW Food Service Training Wing (FSTW) entered the 2023 International Salon Culinaire. This is regarded as one of the world’s top competitions for chefs.

The event took place on 20-22 Mar 23 during the Hotel, Restaurant & Catering (HRC) Show at ExCeL London.

The International Salon Culinaire is the only event of its type and is judged by senior members of the leading chefs’ associations: The Association of Pastry Chefs, The British Culinary Federation, The Craft Guild of Chefs, The MasterChefs of Great Britain and The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts.

The Salon comprises over 100 competitions across four different categories – Salon Display, Live Theatre and Skills Theatre and Sugar Craft. Professional chefs, junior chefs, students and apprentices are invited to enter one or more competitions from the full selection, with the Sugar Craft section open to professional cake makers.

Continuous Personal Development (CPD) The focus for FSTW was to use skills learnt from CPD masterclasses over the past years and showcase what it has to offer.

This was a great opportunity to bring together the FSTW Tri-Service military chefs and industry partners in a challenging and competitive environment in order to demonstrate, develop and test FSTW’s catering capability.

Competing chefs in this year’s competition demonstrated effective leadership, teamwork, and culinary ability through innovative skills.

Awards All the competitors are scored according to the International Salon Culinaire standard – there are medals across all sections. For each Live Theatre and Salon Display class (Kitchen/Larder; Restaurant Plates; Pastry and Sugarcraft) there is a 'Best in Class' award where the winner receives a commemorative plate in addition to their medal. There are also four Chair of Judges’ awards and Best in Category awards, recognising the best of the best.

Sgt Dinesh exhibiting ‘Fu Dog’ 28

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International Salon Culinaire 2023

8 FSTW team came to support their

fellow team mates and experience what ExCeL London had to offer

8 Sgt Ridgway, Sgt Dinesh and Cpl Fred

entered a decorative work in fat showing outstanding talent

(representative of a historical guard dog to ward of nagative energies) was awarded silver for his outstanding craftsmenship.

Sgt Ridgway exhibiting ‘The Crown’ (representative of the Coronation Crown) was awarded a respective Merit for his outstanding efforts.

Cpl Fred exhibiting 'The Golden Eagle', (representative of nature's beauty) was awarded bronze for her magnificent efforts.

She said: "I am privileged to be invited to display my carving ‘The Golden Eagle’ at the prestigious Salon Culinaire in London this year.

With such a wide range of competitions, exhibitors and events, HRC is an irresistible opportunity to learn so much, connect with

industry professionals, admire the high calibre culinary skills and soak up the electrifying atmosphere. It’s not to be missed!

“Salon Culinaire 2023 was an outstanding success, with all the theatre kitchens buzzing from early doors till the last competition. I was so proud to see the industry showing off its professionalism, creativity, hunger, and tenacity.

Well done to all the chefs that took part in this year’s event.”

8 Students and apprentices are

encouraged to enter the competitions

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THE SUSTAINER | TRAINING MATTERS

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The Defence School of Transport Since the last edition of Sustainer, and despite a busy few months, the Defence School of Transport has still managed to pack in a hugely successful Armed Forces Day, officially open the new net zero accommodation, and a Gurkha Temple.The School has also handed out one or two awards to both military and civilian staff and congratulated those who have been promoted.

Sadly, there hasn’t been room in this article to include all of the sporting achievements, but the School looks forward in anticipation to sharing those with you in the next edition.

Beverley Armed Forces Day 2023 As the largest combined force within the region, the Defence School of Transport (DST) has been at the forefront of supporting the local Armed Forces Day event in the market town of Beverley.This year, DST in conjunction with Soldiers’, Sailors & Airman’s Families Association (SSAFA - The Armed Forces Charity), made this an extra special event by opening the gates to Normandy Barracks to the local community and wider region. Utilising the driver training area, the event provided the School with the opportunity to showcase what it does, and the local community to show first hand their appreciation for HM Armed Forces.

A small team was initially assembled to plan an event that grew over time to see the whole of DST involved; from our youngest recruits to some of our more seasoned Civil Servants (CS).With the last event of this scale delivered back in 2017, the military corporate knowledge was far from current, but luckily for those leading with the planning, the CS staff, of whom many of them are veterans themselves, were on hand to not only advise, but assist in the execution.

To say the event ‘went big’ could be seen as a slight understatement. But with nearly 1,000 platform associated pieces of equipment managed on site daily, once the team started ‘adding to basket,’ it was hard to stop. Driver Training Squadron started things off, with what can only be described as a 30

Commandant: Col Chris Henson QGM COS: Lt Col B Aumônier GSM: WO1 M Hickey 8 Beverley Armed Forces Day

8 Beverley Armed Forces Day

wall of activity, highlighting the journey the newest recruits take in gaining their licences, before transitioning onto the specialist platforms delivered by the Military Driver Training Squadron.

Sandwiched perfectly in-between was the Specialist Transport & Management Squadron and Communication Information System Squadron, displaying the next levels of training DST delivers, from Mechanical Handling Equipment (MHE) to the more complex communication systems. Amongst this were some of the sites Industry Partners, such as Mainstream and Babcock, all of which added excellent value and complemented what was on show.

25 Training Regiment RLC and members of Physical Development department within Establishment Support brought up the rear of the military stands, which set about covering some of the non-driving specific training and opportunities available within DST. This ranged from adventure training to cultural understanding and once again highlighted the range of activity DST delivers daily.

Although the vast majority of the stands were made up of DST departments, the event would not have been the success it was without the attendance of some associated organisations.With far too many to list, from the Blue Light Services, Army

Reserve, Cadets, and Mr Steve Thorpe (MDTS) and his merry band of historical vehicles, there was variety and something for everyone; and all of which worked harmoniously and dynamically to ensure the day went to plan. Equally, the scale of attendance by both the military and supporting charity organisations was fantastic.

Given the pressures we all face in day-to-day life, it was reassuring to see so many actively engaging with both the veteran and serving community. The day would not have been the same without entertainment from the York Military Wives Choir, Humberside Police Concert Band, Beverley District Pipe Band and amazing vocals from a Bootleg Buddy Holly and the wonderful Cherie Lawrence who serenaded the crowds with her vintage WWII classics.

Nearly 5,000 visitors attended the event, and without the hard work and commitment of DST’s workforce the event would not have been the success it was.

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TRAINING MATTERS | THE SUSTAINER Bikram Thapa (QOGLR) and his team and was attended by key personnel from across DST and 10 QOGLR, including Maj Basantadhoj Shahi, Gurkha Major QOGLR, Capt Bhim Shreesh, Gurkha Adjt QOGLR, religious teachers from ITC Catterick and Aldershot, Permanent Staff and their families along with QOGLR ITTTs.The newly built Gurkha Temple will help to boost the moral and spiritual strength for service personnel and their families.

New net zero accommodation opens at DST Brig Richard Brown, Head of Infra Plans, Army Basing and Infrastructure, formally opened New Net Zero accommodation at the DST on 26 Jun 23.

The new ‘green’ accommodation will benefit military personnel undertaking driver training while supporting Net Zero targets for Defence.The two new multi-occupancy buildings, which were delivered by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) for the Army in just nine months, will accommodate students completing short courses at DST. Built by offsite construction specialist Reds10, the blocks provide 112 bedspaces across two-to-three-person rooms, alongside ablutions, drying and utility rooms.The accommodation also incorporates sustainable features, supporting the Army’s contribution to UK Government targets for Net Zero by 2050.These include rooftop solar panels, air source heat pumps and heat recovery systems. SMART building technology is installed in both buildings and will supply detailed

8 Brig Brown and the project team at the opening

information on their energy usage, to better understand emerging trends and lead to increased efficiency.

Brig Brown said:“I am delighted to open this sustainable short course accommodation for DST Leconfield, which has been delivered as part of our expansive and ongoing investment to enhance living conditions across the Army estate. I have been very impressed not only by the speed of delivery of these buildings, but by the high-quality finish of the interior, which demonstrates the Army’s enduring commitment to provide the infrastructure that our people need and deserve.”

Gurkha Temple On 29 Mar 23, the opening ceremony of Gurkha Temple took place at Defence School of Transport.The temple was officially opened by DST’s Commandant, Col Chris Henson QGM.The Temple will provide a place of worship for Hindus and Buddhists.

The ceremony was organised by Capt

8 Lesley Holdsworth with her Civil Service Bronze Award & Comdt DST

Promotions and awards Congratulations to DST personnel who were presented with Long Service & Good Conduct Medals from Brig Lee Daley, Commandant Defence College of Logistics, Policing and Administration on a recent visit to DST. SSgt Hughes SSgt Henderson Sgt Aldred Cpl Barker Cpl Fairburn

Congratulations to those within DST and 25 Regt RLC on their recent promotions to Sergeant.

Cpl Aitken Cpl Bolton Cpl Cole Cpl Fairbairn Cpl Ford Cpl Hanwell

8 Gurkha Temple opening

Cpl Sharp Cpl Taffinder (Accumulated Campaign Service Medal)

Cpl Jefferis Cpl Knowles Cpl Marsh Cpl Smith Cpl Smithurst Cpl White

In recognition of their selfless commitment and dedication to their work at DST, LCpl Bunkum has been awarded a Commandant’s Commendation. Mrs Lesley Holdsworth has been awarded a Commandant’s Civil Service Bronze award and Cpl White RAMC has been awarded a Commandant’s Coin.

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE

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Red and Black On Tour In February 2023, members of the 13 Air Assault Support Regiment embarked on a battlefield study to explore Europe’s military history focusing on the events of World War II. Over the course of the trip, the group visited several locations, from the solemn grounds of Auschwitz to the iconic landmarks of Berlin. This tour offered a unique perspective on a defining moment in history.

Bastogne As the group arrived in the small Belgian town of Bastogne, it was impossible not to feel the weight of history in the air. This unassuming town was the site of World War II’s most intense and gruelling battle the Battle of the Bulge. In December 1944, German forces launched a surprise attack on the Ardennes Forest, hoping to divide Allied forces and cut off their supply lines. The town of Bastogne, held by American troops, stood in their way.

The Bastogne War Museum offered an incredibly engaging and informative experience, which the group embarked on through a guided audio tour. The tour follows the war from the viewpoint of four individuals, each offering their unique perspective on the events that unfolded. The group learned about the experiences of soldiers on both sides of the conflict and civilians caught in the crossfire.

The exhibits were vivid and engaging consisting of several expertly reconstructed scenes ranging from equipment such as tanks, trucks and an array of weapons used by soldiers to the personal effects of the period. The museum was designed to give realistic representations to visitors of the experience.

Berlin The next stop was the vibrant city of Berlin, where the group immersed in the history and culture of the region. The Brandenburg Gate, an iconic symbol of the city, was a remarkable sight. Its grandeur and beauty were 32

testament to the enduring spirit of the city and its people.

At Checkpoint Charlie, the group was transported back in time to the tense days of the Cold War. The checkpoint, once a heavily fortified crossing between East and West Berlin, now serves as a poignant reminder of the divisions that once existed in the city. The Berlin Wall, the most iconic symbol of the Cold War, was a stark reminder of the city’s tumultuous past.

Auschwitz Visiting Auschwitz is a profound and emotional experience that leaves a lasting impact. It's tough to fathom the scope of the crimes committed at this site. Torture and starvation-related deaths were widespread. However, the sheer scale of the murder that took place

8 Solemn path leading to Auschwitz

8 Group photo outside of Brandenburg Gate here is overwhelming. It is estimated that 1.1 million people (mainly Jews) lost their lives in the gas chambers and through other forms of execution.

The tour guide has been leading tours at Auschwitz for 16 years. His grandfather was a survivor of the camp, which gave him a deeply personal connection to the site and its history. His personal connection and emotional investment in the site added an extra layer of gravity to the tour, making it even more impactful. His insights about the experiences of those imprisoned in the camp gave us a deeper understanding of the human toll of the Holocaust.

The most staggering thing about the visit is the realisation that Auschwitz was a factory of death, a place where the Nazis carried out their genocidal plans with chilling efficiency. The horror of this reality is almost impossible to imagine and highlights the continuing need to remember and learn from the past.

Colditz Castle Colditz Castle, located in eastern Germany, is a Renaissance-era castle with a fascinating history.

During World War II, the castle was used as a prisoner-of-war camp for Allied prisoners, many of whom were officers who had attempted to escape from other camps.

Despite being heavily guarded,

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ARTICLE | THE SUSTAINER

several prisoners managed to escape from Colditz, a testimony to their resourcefulness and ingenuity.

The castle guide, Mike, explained the details of the escape attempts with the group and painted a vivid picture of life as a POW. One of the more famous attempts was a tunnel escape where the prisoners dug under the chapel. They had to move an enormous amount of rock which they hid on the roof.

Eventually, the roof collapsed under the weight, leading to the tunnel’s discovery prior to its completion.

Mike’s wealth of knowledge and his ability to tell the story of Colditz Castle and its prisoners made for a memorable and thought-provoking visit. The castle now serves as a museum and tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the fascinating history of this remarkable building.

8 Snowy view of Colditz Castle

8 Visit to Airborne Museum

Pegasus Bridge As the group departed for Calais, they had time for one final visit, where they received a detailed briefing from WO2 Reyes-Contreras on the historical significance of the pre D-Day operation at Pegasus Bridge. On the night of 5 June 1944, a group of British soldiers carried out a daring mission to capture the bridge before the German forces could cross it. The operation was a success, and Allied forces held the bridge for the remainder of the war. It is the site of the first casualty of the invasion as well as the first liberated building.

Summary The trip was an incredible experience offering a unique perspective from the viewpoint of other countries involved in World War II from Bastogne, where American troops defended the town during the Battle of the Bulge; to Auschwitz, a powerful reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust. The visit to Omaha Beach, and Pegasus Bridge helped the team learn about the D-Day invasion. Each stop provided a deeper understanding of the war. Overall, the trip was a poignant reflection of life during wartime Europe and the sacrifices made by those who fought and died in the conflict.

8 Team listening intently about the

D-Day operation near Pegasus Bridge

Omaha Beach and the Airborne Museum Omaha Beach in Normandy was the site of one of the most famous battles of World War II, the D-Day invasion. On 6 June 1944, Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy in what was the largest amphibious invasion in history. The invasion aimed to establish a foothold in Europe and ultimately defeat Nazi Germany. The Airborne Museum features a wide range of exhibits and artefacts, including a comprehensive collection of weapons, uniforms, and equipment used by Allied and German airborne forces. www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk • Facebook: The Royal Logistic Corps • Twitter: @UKArmyLogistics

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THE SUSTAINER | EXERCISE

Ex WAGON CHALLENGE 2023 was bigger and better than ever before and due to its success has become firmly fixed in the RLC’s calendar of events. The event was held in the grounds of Sledmere House, a magnificent grade 1 Georgian country house in the East Ridings of Yorkshire on 14 May 23. The estate is still in the hands of the Sykes family, who are direct descendents of Sir Mark Sykes, 6th Baronet of Sledmere, who created the Wagoners Special Reserve in 1914 following the difficulties of mobility and supply faced by the British Army during the Boer War and in particular the lack of skilled transport drivers.

Much like the wagoners of the First World War, soldiers of today were put through their paces in a series of challenges to showcase the skills and challenges of working with horses and the vehicles they hauled, as well as highlighting the soldiers of WW1 who went from farm to the front. Under the direction of 6 Regt RLC from Dishforth and 150 Regt RLC from Hull, a series of challenges were created with Martin Watts, the curator of the Museum of the Wagoners Special Reserve.

These included: 8 Bale Challenge - A timed event to load 18 bales of hay onto a flatbed wagon, lead the wagon pulled by a Clydesdale around a lake and then unload the hay again.

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Ex WAGON CHALLENGE 8 Driving the GS Wagon - The RLC Horse-Drawn Heritage Team was 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 of a pair of horses. The Army Service Corps used over 50,000 GS Wagons in France in WW1. It was an all-purpose vehicle carrying everything from supplies and soldiers to munitions and food.

The Wagon can be seen on display at the RLC Museum, Worthy Down.

8 Tug of War - When your wagon is stuck and there are no horses available, you need to pull it out with force. RLC Horse-Drawn heritage was proud to donate a 1913 silver cup originally inscribed as a Tug of War Trophy for presentation to the winners of this event.

8 How well do you know your horse? - Each team nominated a member, who spent time with one of the famous Sledmere Clydesdales and their trainer, learning everything they could about the animal. They were then asked a series of questions including how much did the horse eat and how much laden weight it could pull?

The sun shone all day and the event attracted a large crowd from

an interested public to friends and family. An estimated 1,000+ people enjoyed the grounds, events and display stands, as well as an ice cream or two. The RLC Horse-Drawn Heritage team was delighted to have been invited to have a display stand again this year and a steady stream of visitors throughout the day recounted tales of their grandfathers’ experiences and admired our WW1 soldier’s bell tent and display of WW1 memorabilia. The Colonel RLC, Col Pat Allen ADC visited the event and was impressed by the commitment and dedication he saw throughout the day. He remarked: “It’s great to see Horse-Drawn Heritage out promoting the history of the Corps.”

The knockout ‘Tug of War’ competition was won by 13AASR. However, despite their comprehensive victory in this competition, it was not enough to clinch the top prize. That honour went to 27 Regt RLC who were consistently competitive in each event and were deservedly crowned Wagoner Champions 2023.

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 team. The day was hosted by the Sledmere Estate, courtesy of Sir Tatton Sykes Bt.

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EXERCISE | THE SUSTAINER

Photo credit: Cpl B McKenzie RLC VPT

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THE SUSTAINER | ARTICLE In 2021, I wrote to the previous Colonel RLC (Col John West ADC) to ask his permission to set up an RLC motorbike safety initiative with the following aims: 1. Rider Safety.

2. Promote the Corps.

3. Build relationships.

He agreed and after placing an article in the Sustainer, there are now 30 RLC motorcyclists on the distribution list. Unfortunately, due to COVID travel restrictions and work commitments no events had been formally arranged, until recently.

In October 2022, a few riders got together for Ride to the Wall, which is an annual event where thousands of motorbikes ride to the National Arboretum to remember the names of the fallen and in turn raise money for the local charity.

In 2023, the schedule of ‘Biker Down’ courses across the UK was released. These are free courses run by the UK Fire and Rescue Services as they realised that bikers tend to ride in groups, so the course gives basic first responder advice if a member of their group has an accident. I know a number of RLC members have already signed up for some of these courses. As well as this, advanced motorcycle and ROSPA course information has been distributed.

The highlight of this year, however, has been the self-funded battlefield tour to Ypres and the surrounding area. In April, 12 RLC bikers put their name forward to participate in a four-day trip totalling over three hundred miles from our meeting point at Folkstone

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The RLC Motorbike Safety Initiative

By Maj Chris Scott OC Donnington Support Unit

8 Ride to the Wall

8 Tynecot Cemetery

8 The RLC Riders group outside the Flanders Museum

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services and encompassing sights and memorials around the Somme.

Following our initial day of travelling, the second day saw the group visit sites such as Tyne Cot Cemetery, the site of the Christmas truce and the 2,000 hours vigil at the Menin Gate. It also gave a member of the group the chance to visit his grandfather’s grave in Hazebrouck Cemetery. The third day saw the group riding further afield to Thiepval Memorial in

France and a tour around Vimy Ridge. This day saw the riders in the saddle for nearly six hours. The trip was successful as it covered aspects of all the initiative’s aims: 1. Group riding is an effective way of learning new techniques of riding due to the vast experiences of all riders in the group and trains the rider’s concentration as they have others to think about, not just themselves.

2. This trip promoted the Corps from within as hopefully it aided with retention due to the different nature of the event.

3. The trip built relationships across the RLC’s trades across all different ranks.

The next proposed event is off road training to assist with bike handling. This will depend on funding and diaries.

If you are interested in being added to the members’ distribution list please email Maj Chris Scott for more details – Christopher.scott837@mod.gov.uk

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RLC MUSEUM | THE SUSTAINER

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

Contemporary Collecting The challenge of capturing The RLC’s story of today, to tell an audience of tomorrow

The RLC is 30 years old this year and it is important that the museum captures the recent history of the Corps and it is struggling in some areas. The increased use of digitisation means that photographs and documents are less often printed onto paper and placed into albums or into folders, which then surface years later.

Fortunately, sources like the Defence Imagery website and The RLC’s own digital archive, helps to make up for this shortfall in images, but not documents, diaries or maps.

The production of an Annual Unit Historical Record seems to have stopped in recent years and now the only reliable historical record of Corps activity over the last 20 years is the Sustainer Magazine.

Moreover, collecting objects for display is also a concern. The RLC Museum has many objects and equipment depicting the story of EOD when an RAOC responsibility, but virtually nothing since the RLC

8 A Unit Historical Record

formed. Our three EOD wheelbarrows are all Op Banner 1980s vintage. Interestingly the head of collections at the National Army Museum expressed a similar concern during a visit last week.

The RLC Museum can help a researcher study Forming Corps involvement in the D-Day landings, but not RLC involvement in Op PITTING. Perhaps this is understandable, because recent operations are still sensitive. But will the digital documents, maps, Op Orders and images of Corps involvement in Op PITTING be available to the museum archive in 10 or 20 years’ time?

Support to the COVID-19 pandemic (Op RESCRIPT) , the late Queen’s funeral (Op LONDON BRIDGE), the new King’s Coronation (OP GOLDEN ORB) and current operations in Eastern Europe (Ops CABRIT and INTERLINK) will all eventually become historic events and thus interesting stories, which should eventually be told in the RLC Museum.

A recent donation of Log IS and Postal equipment was fantastic.

8 1980s RAOC EOD Equipment But what about the latest catering equipment, EOD Wheelbarrows, fuel handling devices or even radios used by a Drivers Communications Specialist?

So, this article is a plea that the Museum is remembered as equipment is discarded or disposed of. When you are long retired and decide to bring your grandchildren to visit the RLC Museum to see the kit you used while serving, I’m sure you’d like to hope there will be something in our collection for them to look at.

8 Modern Postal Equipment

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THE SUSTAINER | THE RLC FOUNDATION The RLC Foundation continues to go from strength to strength, developing an ever-expanding network of links to the commercial and academic logistic communities. The Foundation’s core aim – to promote professional development in the Corps through engagement with industry and academia – remains at the very heart of all that it does.

On 26 Apr, Unipart hosted a ‘Resilience in Supply Chains’ event at Unipart House, Oxford. The event was well supported by the military and our industry partners.

Simon Wheelton, Director Strategy and Business Development Aerospace and Defence at Unipart Logistics and Team Unipart showcased their diverse range of products and expertise during a visit to Unipart’s Advanced Supply Chain Institute (ASCI). The ASCI is a multi-purpose learning and collaboration space where tomorrow’s supply chains are reimagined, enhanced and transformed, to develop innovative ways to use digital technology and automation to transform businesses, increase resilience, reduce cost and lower environmental impact.

The guest presenters were Adam Jones, Divisional Director of Sector Strategy and Business Development, Unipart Logistics and Maj Gen Phil Prosser CBE, Director Joint Supply Strategic Command.

Both presenters focused in on the resilience supply chain challenges faced by the commercial sector and within the military environment.

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The RLC Foundation

8 Maj K Shultz, Maj J Revell, Mr Darren

Leigh CEO Unipart, RLC Foundation Chariman Maj Gen A Fay CB, Mr Adam Jones, Mr Simon Wheelton, Maj J Howell, Maj N Roberts

8 RLC Foundation Award Winner

Mr Jacob Thomas-Llwellyn and Brigadier Patch Reehal MBE

On 1 Jun, our corporate partners attended the RLC30 Freedom of the City Parade and service of Thanksgiving at Winchester Cathedral. Many of them then travelled to Worthy Down Camp for the Open Day and Party in the Park. Feedback from our corporate membership has been extremely positive.

On 14 Jun, Brig Patch Reehal MBE, Commander 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade, presented Mr Jacob Thomas-Llewellyn with his award for submitting the best article to be published in the 2022 RLC Foundation Review. Jacob’s article entitled “Project OS-6: The laying of the Lake Ladoga Fuel Pipeline 1945 – 1946” received high praise from the military judges. Jacob unfortunately could not be present at the 2022 awards dinner and we are delighted that he has now received formal recognition for this achievement.

This award was kindly sponsored

by Unipart Logistics.

8 Major General Phil Prosser CBE Director Joint Support

After the respective presentations and a tour of the ASCI, a lively Q&A session followed, which further explored the many supply chain and sustainability challenges that we all face. This was followed by an excellent lunch before those attending departed.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BICESTER CO: Lt Col L Butler MBE • Adjt: Capt E Bevan • RSM: WO1 Filmer 2 (CS) Squadron Busy is the natural state of mind for 2 CS Squadron, so forming The RLC’s marching contingent during Op GOLDEN ORB was something it took in its stride. This was immediately followed by a two-week regimental exercise, Ex STAMPEDING RHINO. The Sqn was chosen to form the number one marching contingent for the RLC30 event after having the honour of representing The RLC at the King's coronation. During the parade in Winchester, HRH The Princess Royal took time to speak to personnel, including the 1 Regt cohort led by 2 Sqn’s Officer Commanding Capt L Steen.

Following the inspection, HRH took the salute from the ten RLC contingents led by 2 CS Sqn. The RLC30 event was thoroughly enjoyed by all and a proud end to the busy period.

12 (CS) Squadron 12 Sqn worked alongside the remainder of the Regt on the Regt’l exercise which focused on deployment in a tactical environment. This allowed the troops to work as a collective in conducting logistic activity and other tactical actions. The Sqn was given the opportunity to lead in the planning and execution of the 20 ABCT driving competition for units from across the Brigade. To the dismay of the other competing units, the Sqn maintained its reputation and took the winning team title.

The highlight of the quarter was Ex RHINO ANGLING. The weeklong event organised by WO2 (SSM) Booth saw Carp Anglers from across the Corps paired with those from the Regt.

The event focused on fishing and positive effects of spending 24 hours away from technology while immersed in nature.

23 (GS) Squadron Alongside its real-life support capability, the Sqn has continued

to focus on developing its military skills whilst deployed on Op CABRIT. The 1 Regt shooting team, under the command of 2 Tp Comd Lt Bamsey, competed in the divisional shooting competition, placing an incredible fourth, and successfully advancing to the Defence Operational Shooting Competition, where it won the title of 2023 Falling Plate Champions.

74 (HQ) Squadron In May, 74 HQ Sqn deployed on Ex STAMPEDING RHINO. The Sqn was tasked with establishing a BSG and CSC, which were new experiences for many, as well as supporting the EXCON element and supplying crucial communications to the Task Squadrons. The RHQ was tested with a challenging planning cycle, led by the Regimental 2IC, Major Andy Thackway.

Away from the field, the Sqn deployed several personnel as the Real Life Support element of RLC30, providing vital support to a fantastic day in Worthy Down. In sport, the football team, led by the Regimental Operations SNCO, SSgt Shane Butlin, won its league and the South Sixes tournament,

8 HRH The Princess Royal, escorted by Capt L Steen, as she inspects soldiers of 2 (CS) Squadron qualifying for the Army Sixes. In athletics, the 1 Regt’s men’s team achieved qualification to the Army Inter Unit Championships after a close competition at the UK South Championships and in Tug of War, Sgt Taper and Pte Flannery represented the Army.

8 Sgt Tapper (left) with other members of the Army Tug of War Team

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

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4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON CO: Lt Col A Gartside • Adjt: Capt C Nottage • RSM: WO1 J Brackenbury

The start of the year has been busy for 4 Regiment RLC, with deployments on Op CABRIT and INTERLINK, plus exercises ORION and IRON FIRE. Below are some first-hand experiences from those deployed.

33 Squadron 4 Regt has recently returned from a six-month deployment on Op CABRIT 11. Forming part of the newly established Theatre Support Squadron (TSS), a multi-disciplined squadron featuring nine cap badges of various supporting elements, led by an HQ from 33 Sqn. Providing the second-line capability for the TSS, the Stores Troop was responsible for the transit of all materiel in and out of Estonia.

With the JOA spanning over 1,000km from Finland to Poland, the Sqn was kept busy, performing a variety of functions from delivering fuel via CSTs to utilising EPLS to deliver stores across the Baltic Region. Members of the Sqn gained a huge amount of driving experience in winter conditions.

All soldiers performed exceptionally, allowing the TSS to implement new practices that will stand for future iterations of Op CABRIT. 40

4 Squadron On 27 Mar 23, 4 CS Sqn deployed as a Composite Logistic Squadron on Ex ORION - a multinational military interoperability exercise in France. This started with a green fleet move from Oxford totalling 380 miles. During the exercise 4 Sqn was engaged as the National Support Element (NSE) for the 3 RIFLES Battlegroup and 12 ABCT HQ, working alongside French and Belgium Logistic counterparts and testing NATO interoperability.

On top of the primary support tasks, 4 Sqn was able to conduct its own in-field tactical training, as well as learning about WW1 history of the area, which included a visit to the Verdun Museum and adjoining Cemetery and an evening spent in a WW1 trench system.

Both 4 Sqn and the French NSE were keen to learn how each other operates. Joint activities ranging from a friendly football game to cross-loading fuel from a French CST to a British CST, allowing 4 Sqn’s fuel troop to continue the sustainment of those deployed.

60 Squadron Ex-IRON FIRE On the 11 Feb 23, 60 Sqn deployed a Troop to Sennelager on Ex IRON FIRE providing real life support to

8 4 Sqn deployed alongside French forces the RTR battlegroup. Deployment kicked off with an extensive road move from Dalton Barracks to Normandy Barracks via the town of Monchengladbach for an overnight stop. For many, this was the first time driving on continental roads, providing a challenging and at times entertaining experience.

The safe arrival of the convoy in Sennelager saw a period of rehabilitation and training; a highlight of which being an excellent demonstration by 1 Military Working Dogs in both protection and search roles.

Moving into the exercise phase saw demands for lift coming at short notice. Bulk fuel proved to be the most critical aspect, with two hard working crews and their CSTs running daily between a refinery in Hamburg and Normandy Barracks, sustaining the whole BG. Distribution was conducted in the evenings of the 11-day exercise, also providing an excellent opportunity for the Troop to operate tactically in the field.

On conclusion of the exercise and after a brief rehab period, the Troop returned to the UK before being sent on a much-deserved Easter leave.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DISHFORTH CO: Lt Col J Lockett • Adjt: Capt JP Oliver • RSM: WO1 S Lucas MBE Continuing the development as a Close Support Logistic Regiment, 6 Regiment RLC has had a busy few months supporting training and operations across the globe.

Personnel recovered from successful deployments in Oman and Mali; supported the coronation on Op GOLDEN ORB; deployed to Salisbury Plain with 4 Regiment RA; stood a sqn up for the United Kingdom Support Battalion and began RHQ preparation for Ex ARRCADE LEDGER in Germany. All of this while embracing the Corps’ history and rightly rewarding our people for their fantastic achievements.

At the beginning of the year, ten soldiers from 6 Regt, led by WO1 Lutunatabua, deployed to Mali to assist with the theatre drawdown of Op NEWCOME. Supporting the Long Range Reconnaissance Group they were responsible for logistic assurance and account management for the redeployment of over 250 SP, 130 ISO containers and 100+ vehicles. A mammoth undertaking, they showed professionalism and tradecraft in a tricky operational commitment; a testament to their LSS skills.

Around the same time, 64 CS Sqn was supporting the 2 R ANGLIAN Battlegroup in Oman, honing its soldiering skills and tradecraft. The Sqn successfully supported the Battlegroup to complete validation training and in

the spare time managed to take part in some exciting AT and cultural visits.

Continuing to develop ways to be better logisticians, in June 62 GS Squadron deployed on Ex SUNDERLAND DAGGER, an artillery exercise run by 4 Regt RA. It is widely known that artillery logistics is a dark art; so being able to understand demand signals, provisioning and distribution considerations, will prove invaluable when assuming Very High Readiness in January 2024 as part of NATO’s Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (Land).

On top of the main commitments, the Regt continues to embrace and promote its proud heritage. This is exactly what the Regt did at the annual Waggoners’ Challenge event. Held at Sledmere House, the event pays homage to generations

8 A 4 Regt RA gun position on Ex SUNDERLAND DAGGER

gone by and celebrates the ethos, pride and culture of the WW1 waggoners. Supported by 150 Regt RLC, the day saw RLC teams compete for the Waggoners trophy with 27 Regt RLC winning overall.

Moving into a more recent era, 6 Regt has a proud pedigree of sporting success and has won the Army Sports Trophy for three years in a row. To recognise this, the Regt hosted a Sports Awards dinner night for 120 of the Regt’s personnel. Eight of the sports stars won awards, and Deputy Commander 1(UK) Div, Brig Gen Laurentin, was the guest of honour.

This followed the success of the Regt’s Thirsk race day, where 150 personnel received free tickets to attend a race day as a reward for their charitable work with the ABF. Enjoyed by all, it was a welcome reward following an exciting yet demanding start to the year.

The Regt also said farewell to Lt Col Andy Richardson and welcomed the new CO, Lt Col Jennifer Lockett. The development of 32 CS Sqn is well under way, with the first 6 Regt Sqn OC and SSM now in post. 6 Regt is now in a great position to continue providing professional, capable and agile logistic support to the Light Division.

8 The Regiment’s sports awards dinner night

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

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7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COTTESMORE CO: Lt Col D Groce MBE • Adjt: Capt A Coe • RSM: WO1 G Hardy Throughout the spring and summer, 7 Regiment RLC has conducted no less than two operational sub-unit deployments and a sub-unit level OTX. This has been combined with support to RLC30, the 17 Squadron reformation parade and the Regt’s move from Cottesmore to Abingdon.

The Spring saw 17 Sqn deploy to BATUK on its first exercise since reformation. Deploying on Ex ASKARI STORM, 17 Sqn led the CSS Gp in support of 1 COLDSTREAM GUARDS BG. On return from Kenya, the Sqn took well deserved leave and subsequently began preparations to support the RLC30 Freedom of the City Parade through Winchester. Several long days and one incredibly early morning of rehearsals culminated in a terrific parade.

In June, 17 Sqn celebrated its reformation with a parade in its new home of Dalton Barracks. The event was made more special with previous OCs in attendance, providing the link from when the Sqn was disbanded in 2011. The salute was taken by Brigadier A D McRae MBE, himself a previous OC of the Sqn. 9 Sqn has conducted its relief-in-place from Op INTERFLEX. During the six-month commitment, over two brigade’s worth of troops have received comprehensive clothing and equipment issue prior to conducting basic infantry training across the UK. The incoming Handling and Processing (HAP(UK)) team is comprised of a HQ element from 156 Regt and further IAGs from across 1(UK)Div and the wider Armed Forces. 9 Sqn is now focused on initial preparations to deploy A Tp to BATUK in support of 2 REME on Ex HAKARA STORM 2/23.

At the time of writing, 68 Sqn is preparing for deployment across Eastern Europe on Op INTERLINK as the Logistic Enabling Nodes (LENs) lead sub-unit. The 42

deployment will mark the 18 month point of 7 Regt having provided continuous deployed support to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and on their return the Regt will have been deployed at sub-unit or above level for a full two years – an unprecedented operational commitment. Over three quarters of the Regt have deployed operationally across either Op INTERFLEX or INTERLINK. 617 HQ Sqn has been at the forefront of 1(UK)Div’s mounting exercises and conceptual development. The first of these was

8 Pte Wiggins receives the RLC 6’s cricket trophy from Lt Col Yates

8 The 17 Sqn reformation parade Ex JERBOA HALBERD 23. This saw 600 personnel and 250 vehicles from 7 LMBCT successfully deploy through a centralised mounting area at Kendrew Barracks onto Ex ARRCADE LEDGER, simulating a brigade deployment at scale for conventional warfighting. With JERBOA HALBERD now complete, 617 Sqn is priming itself for Ex WESSEX HALBERD in October; a larger and yet more complex exercise, followed by NATO mounting exercises for Ex BRILLIANT JUMP and Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE next year.

On the sporting front, WO2 (SSM) Richardson led the Army Men’s Team at the National Tug of War Championships alongside two other members of the Regt - LCpl Bradbury and Pte Jones. The Army team pulled against the current European and World champions and came away with an impressive second place finish. This podium finish represents the first Tug of War medal for the Army in 21 years.

The cricket team has continued from last season’s performances by retaining the RLC 6s competition in 2023 and has now reached the Army Cup quarter finals with the aim of repeating last season’s success of reaching the final.

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULLAVINGTON CO: Lt Col A Bhundia • Adjt: Capt C Bevan • RSM: WO1 C Blackburn 9 Regiment RLC celebrated RLC30 at the end of another busy period of exercises, deployments, sport, adventurous training and community engagement.

66 Fuel and General Transport Squadron 66 F&GT Sqn is currently undergoing an exciting reorganisation which will see the Sqn split to form 66 Fuel Sqn and 21 GT Sqn. In February, the Sqn deployed on Ex PHOENIX SCORCH, the Sqn’s TL A/B exercise in Otterburn. The soldiers and officers were on a three-day rotation of fieldcraft, driver training and driver training validation. The Sqn also supported Ex TIMBER TRUSS, which involved over 120 personnel and more than 60 vehicles.

It has been a successful year for the Sqn’s boxers, with five representing the Regt at the Corps Boxing Championships.

Furthermore, B Troop’s Pte Williams has had success in the Army Boxing Championships, becoming the Army Champion in her weight category.

66 F&GT Sqn has also spent plenty of time on the drill square, with over 70 people from the Sqn on the Freedom of Malmesbury Parade and 37 people on the RLC30 parade.

84 Medical Supply Squadron In May, personnel from 84 MS Sqn deployed to Estonia in support of a NATO led CivMil MedLog TTX. The exercise, designed and executed by the SME on blood logistics within NATO, was to test the efficiency and interoperability of the Estonian Defence Force and the civilian sector. Specifically, in the distribution and consumption of blood supplies during a NATO Article V situation.

84 MSS personnel were invited as directing staff due to their specialist knowledge of the medical supply chain.

At the conclusion of the exercise, a comprehensive list of lessons

learned were captured to help shape future doctrine. All participants gained a huge amount of value from the exercise. For 84 Sqn personnel the exercise provided a fantastic opportunity to work with NATO colleagues and understand better how allies operate.

90 (Headquarters) Squadron Another busy period for 90 Sqn but there was still time for some extra-curricular activities, such as the inter-sqn ‘Safe Skills Driving competition’… which 90 Sqn won!

There were additional trawls and deployments with elements of the catering department departing for Ex WARFIGHTER and Comms Troop deploying on Sqn exercises en-masse to develop those new to

8 The Col QOGLR presents winners’ medals at the Khukuri Competition

8 84 MS Sqn provided DS to the NATO CivMil MedLog TTX

trade and to test those with more experience. In support of RLC30, the Sqn provided parade marshals, and was excellent day for all those that attended.

94 Squadron QOGLR The Colonel QOGLR’s inter-sqn Khukuri competition took place in Aldershot. 94 Sqn emerged triumphant in hockey defeating 1 Sqn 3-1. The Sqn also enjoyed success on the football field in a nail-biting final between 94 Sqn and 15 Sqn. The journey to victory was not without its challenges. The volleyball and basketball teams of 94 Sqn faced formidable opponents, resulting in fourth-place finishes in each event.

As the tournament reached its grand finale, the event culminated with a rousing closing speech from the Regimental Colonel, Brig P Reehal MBE who emphasised the essence of the Khukuri Competition, which lies not solely in victory but in the collective spirit and sportsmanship exhibited throughout the tournament.

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THE SUSTAINER | UNITS

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10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment ALDERSHOT COMMANDER: Lt Col O Nyman • Adjt: Capt S Smith • RSM: WO1 L Sunuwar Having completed MACA operations and public duties, July 22 saw 10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment reorganise in preparation for Operation TOSCA 37.

Once deployed, personnel endured a mandatory quarantine period for five days. Unable to leave camp, soldiers and officers used their ‘yard time’ to conduct physical training around the building. Upon release, personnel were soon conducting routine patrols within the buffer zone, in addition to QRF and guard duties.

Dashain came around very quickly, which saw the Head of Mission, Mr Colin Stewart, and the Force Commander, Major General Ingrid Gjerde, visit Ledra Palace Hotel, welcomed by a show of dancing and singing to celebrate this important event in the Nepali calendar.

Both Sector 2 and the Mobile Force Reserve (MFR) trained hard for UNFICY’P’s Military Skills Competition. The MFR took first place in the event with Sector 2 placing not far behind. Focus was also placed on soldier self-development, with the TOSCA Regiment’s Adventurous Training Team (TRATT) running AT courses every week; resulting in the majority of deployed personnel being qualified in a foundation course. This boosted morale throughout the operation, with soldiers able to get out of Nicosia,

8 UNFICPY Sector 2 and Mobile Force Reserve Medal Parade at Ledra Palace Hotel in March 2023

8 Charity DOKO race in aid of the earthquake in Turkey and Syria

challenge themselves and experiencing Cyprus more broadly.

The tremors of the earthquakes that devastated Turkey and Syria in early 2023 were also felt in Cyprus.

A humanitarian aid collection

centre was soon established at Ledra Palace Hotel, receiving aid from the local population and businesses for onward transportation to affected areas.

Soldiers were busy collecting, organising and delivering clothing, blankets and food to the so-called Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus for them to be used in the support of those affected by the earthquake. Recognising similarities to the earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015, soldiers from the MFR also organised a Doko race across the United Nations Protected Area to raise funds for the earthquake relief efforts.

A busy tour both operationally and with additional activities, for many soldiers it was their first operational deployment. After a period of post operational tour leave, personnel returned to a busy summer term. There is much command churn, but the Regt looks forward to reconstituting its conventional structure, incorporating 31 Squadron, and completing its hasty collective training pathway ahead of Ex IRON TITAN in autumn 2023. The Regt lies on an inflection point; peacekeeping duties have concluded, the road back to logistic operations and warfighting begins.

8 HRH The Princess Royal visited the Buffer Zone in January 2023

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UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Regiment RLC DIDCOT CO: Lt Col R Swan • Adjt: Capt R Dunbar • RSM: WO1 W Ball As The RLC celebrates its 30th anniversary, it provides an opportunity for this regiment to look back on its recent history and a moment to reflect on what has been an incredibly busy and proud three decades.

Continuing from its distinguished history in The Royal Army Ordnance Corps, 11 EOD&S Regt RLC maintained its world-class reputation for delivering Improvised Explosive Device Disposal, Conventional Munitions Disposal and Ammunition Technical Support both in the UK and overseas.

From 1993 the pace of operations has remained relentless.

As part of the commitment to UK MACA, the Regt has dealt with ~76,186 EOD tasks in the UK alone, averaging ~2,540 a year with approximately 20% of these being IED taskings. As ‘The Troubles’ in Northern Ireland began to subside through the 1990s, 11 EOD Regt, as it was called at the time, found it had an increasingly pivotal role in numerous operations around the world including: Kosovo, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. Notably the threat of IEDs skyrocketed in Afghanistan and Iraq which became a defining and deadly factor of each conflict.

Despite the risks the Regt’s personnel have remained committed to the core role of protecting others, often involving putting their own lives on the line to do so. As a result, in the last 30 years, personnel from the Regt

8 The Regiment receiving Firmin Sword of Peace in 2018

8 Northern Ireland. The ‘Troubles’ still

dominated during the 1993 amalgamation

8 The late WO2 Gary O’Donnell GM and bar in Afghanistan. The Regiment had a heavy and crucial role in the conflict have been awarded 120 Honours and Awards for gallantry whilst conducting EOD duties: 16 Mentions in Dispatches, 42 Queen’s Commendations for Bravery, 39 Queen’s Gallantry Medals, 3 Military Crosses, 16 George Medals, 1 Conspicuous Gallantry Cross and 3 George Crosses. The latter being the highest award for gallantry not in the presence of the enemy, equal in stature only to the Victoria Cross.

The Regt itself was awarded the Firmin Sword of Peace in 2018 in recognition of the assistance to the Didcot Power Station tragedy (Op BRIDLED) and the safe disposal of 2,4 Dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNP) from school laboratories nationwide (Op MATSU).

The Unit’s expertise and experience with explosives made it

an indispensable resource in these situations and it was called upon assist in the wake of the 7/7 bombings, Manchester Arena bombing and Salisbury poisonings to name a few.

Tragically this commitment has not only been recognised and commended but has also resulted in members of the Regt continuing to pay the ultimate price and giving their lives in service over the last 30 years, particularly in Afghanistan where six members of the Regiment died whilst carrying out IEDD duties on Op HERRICK: Capt Dan Shepherd GM, Capt Dan Read, Capt Lisa Head, WO2 Gary O’Donnell GM with bar, SSgt Olaf Schmid GC and SSgt Brett Linley GM. They were all High Threat Operators who were at the forefront of an incredibly challenging and ever-changing IED threat. In Iraq too, SSgt Chris Muir lost his life conducting EOD duties on Op TELIC. As the Regt looks ahead, it is hard to predict where and what kind of operations it will be involved in, within a more turbulent and technologically advanced world.

However, looking at the recent past, it gives confidence that whatever the threat or challenge, 11 EOD&S Regt’s people will meet it.

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13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER CO: Lt Col R Edwards • Adjt: Capt K Smith • RSM: WO1 D Bunn The first half of 2023 has been extremely busy for 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC. The Regt has deployed on humanitarian operations at short notice; supported the UK’s contribution to NATO’s assistance to Ukraine; deployed on several exercises and formally welcomed the Regt’s newest sqn.

15 Squadron QOGLR re-subordination parade On 1 Feb 23, the Regiment held a parade at Merville Barracks to mark the formal re-subordination of 15 Air Assault Support Squadron QOGLR into the Regt. With marching contingents from each sqn taking part, Brig Reehal MBE, Commander 101 Operation Sustainment Brigade and Colonel 10 QOGLR, was the inspecting officer.

Ex WESSEX STORM April saw a large contingent of the Regt deploy to various training areas across England and Wales as part of Ex WESSEX STORM. The Regimental Headquarters and 24 HQ Sqn deployed to Caerwent to provide higher command to exercising troops, experimenting with planning processes and keeping the HQ agile with their deployed role.

Meanwhile, 15 Sqn deployed directly in support of the 2 RGR Battlegroup as part of its validation prior to taking over high readiness responsibilities in June. The Sqn simultaneously supported the 1 R IRISH Battlegroup in its new role as Light Recce Strike within 16 Air Assault BCT. The Sqn practised the inload of stores to a SPOD, before moving to Salisbury Plain to support the BG with airborne resupply. The Sqn’s Airborne Troop, newly qualified in the role, demonstrated its utility to the BG by conducting HUSL operations and DZ clearances.

Humanitarian operations As part of high readiness commitments, elements of the Regt 46

have deployed twice in support of humanitarian operations so far this year. In February, elements of 63 Sqn acted as the Mounting Group for the 16 Medical Regiment led deployment to Turkey, in aftermath of the earthquakes in the country (Op GREENLIGHTER). Two members of 82 Sqn deployed forward to Turkey to assist with the inload of essential medical supplies.

In May, a composite Troop from 82 Sqn deployed as part of the 3 PARA Battlegroup to support the non-combatant evacuation operation in Sudan. The Troop deployed to Cyprus in anticipation for onward movement into Sudan itself. Once the requirement changed, the Troop played an important role in the procurement

8 63 Sqn provided the Op GREENLIGHTER Mounting Group

8 Brig Reehal MBE inspects 15 AAS Sqn QOGLR

and processing of essential supplies for those evacuated from the country.

Op INTERLINK In March, elements of 63 Sqn deployed to Eastern Europe to support 4 Regt RLC on Op INTERLINK. Members of the Sqn have been deployed across Poland and Slovakia to ensure the UK’s materiel support to the Armed Forces of Ukraine is delivered.

Extracurricular activities and sporting success In addition to numerous deployments, the Regt has continued to prove its excellence in the sporting arena. So far this year, the Regt’s BAWF team has placed first in the Midlands League, the Basketball team was crowned London District Major Unit Champions, and the Boxing team were crowned the RLC Boxing Champions.

After an impressive start to 2023, the Regt looks forward to continuing to test itself across the world, starting with 82 Sqn’s upcoming deployment to Kenya on Ex HARAKA STORM and 63 Sqn’s deployment to Cyprus on Ex KRONOS WARRIOR.

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17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTHAMPTON CO: Lt Col TD Wilcox • Adjt: Capt D Levens • RSM: WO1 S Chambers

Foreword by the Commanding Officer Having taken over in April, I assume command of an outstanding organisation that whilst consistently deployed on operations around the world, is well represented across Corps and Army activities. This is visible on the sports field, in the water, at engagement events and awards ceremonies. I must pay tribute to my predecessor Lt Col Verity Crompton MBE for her custodianship during the turbulence of COVID-19 and the early UK response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which the Regt has been directly involved in supporting.

As I take the baton, we have an exciting few years ahead and I see a bright future. Project Marchwood is gathering pace and we are developing a new relationship within the port, now that Associated British Ports (ABP) have purchased the Sea Mounting Centre concession. There are a number of opportunities to cultivate a new working relationship and capitalise on what ABP has to offer in terms of size and experience. We are also working hard on developing new equipment capabilities for the future, together with our sister regiment, 165 P&M Regt RLC. Life in the Regt is vibrant; proud, professional and enjoyable – the hallmarks of an outstanding and high performing team.

marching troops to contribute to the RLC30 parade in Winchester on 1 Jun 23. 165 Regt also provided troops, making a hybrid contingent of Regular and Reserve. Despite the busy shipping forecast in support of Defence efforts all over the world, the marching troops spent three weeks being moulded into a finely tuned body of soldiers by 17 Regt’s ex-Guardsmen, Sgt Dellar and Lt Wylie and under the watchful eye of WO2 (SSM) Adekunle. Practice occurred daily for two hours, before the troops returned to shipping. On the day, the troops performed excellently, led by Officer Commanding 53 Sqn, Maj Will McCartney, they proudly marched through the streets of Winchester.

RLC30 marching troops 17 Regt was humbled to provide

8 Op TELIC painting

The journey through 30 years With the passing of a huge milestone in the Corps’ 30th Birthday, 17 P&M Regt reflects on its role in supporting Defence since 1993. In 1995, the Regt deployed to support the UN mission Op

8 17 RLC - RLC 30 - Marching Troops CHANTRESS in Angola. The same year saw a team support Op GRAPPLE VII in the Balkans. With Marchwood Military Port, receiving a massive expansion in the wake of the Falklands conflict, it was ready for its first proper test in 2003 with the start of Op TELIC. The second Gulf War saw the Regt deploy to the far bank to receive materiel for the deployed forces. Our sister took over running of the Sea Mounting Centre in Marchwood as ROG. In 2008, the RFA’s Landing Ship Logistics were retired and replaced by the modern Bay-Class LSDA’s which the Regt has had a full-time presence on ever since, deploying in support of 3 Cdo Bde and in humanitarian response roles. Most notably of these was hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017 which saw the detachment from 17 Regt deliver six tonnes of humanitarian aid to Anguilla using the formidable MEXE-Flote raft. The Regt deployed on rotations of Op HERRICK in 2008, 2009 and 2010. In 2013, the Regt deployed for Op TOSCA and spent six months supporting the UN peacekeeping mission in Cyprus. In recent years the Regt has provided support to enduring operations such as Op ESCALIN and the UK’s COVID-19 response.

17 Regt has been at the forefront of material support to Ukraine as part of Op INTERLINK, discharging 100’s of vehicles and equipment through the SMC.

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25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LECONFIELD CO: Lt Col B Ekman • Adjt: Capt S Adamson • RSM: WO1 T Jones Since the start of 2023, 25 Regiment RLC has competed in numerous sporting events, been involved in several extra-curricular activities and engaged with other forces from around the world.

25 Regt is not exclusively responsible for training that the future soldiers of the Corps. The Regt regularly takes part in military competitions and challenges as a unit. The latest endeavour was The Wagoner’s Challenge Military Skills Competition, where the Regt secured a podium finish. It was no easy feat, so trainees and permanent staff worked as a team to complete unique military tasks, putting their intellectual and physical skills to the test. Up against several other major RLC units, the teams showed focus and determination to showcase their military abilities.

Adventurous training is an important part of the 25 Regt experience as it allows the trainees to challenge themselves in a different environment. Sgt Cummings took the lead in organising a six-day hike along the famous West Highland Way for a group of soldiers, who were all novice walkers. With the assistance of experienced military guides, the team trekked the 96-mile trail through the scenic Scottish countryside. Constantly offering support and encouragement to

each other, the soldiers completed the arduous march showing fantastic endurance whilst building their mental resilience. This activity demonstrated the skills taught by the Army to face adversity and embrace challenge.

Sporting success has also been a feature of this busy period. Cpl Karki was named champion at the Army Table Tennis Championships, whilst also taking a team to experience the competition.

Establishing a DST club and running regular training sessions, it has allowed ITTTs to try a new

8 25 Regt secures podium finish on Ex WAGON CHALLENGE Challenge

sport and develop new skills.

Table tennis was also included in the CO’s Shield, encouraging friendly rivalry between the DST pillars. Furthermore, 25 Regt has played an important part in the success of DST in the UK North Championships, finishing in the top two at every event they have taken part in. This included a victory in the volleyball.

Finally, 25 Regt had a strong showing at the 63rd International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes.

With representatives from over 40 nations, 25 Regt personnel marched through the streets swapping memorabilia and building relationships with our allies. In what was a magnificent atmosphere, connections were made with sailors, airmen, and soldiers, including members of the French Foreign Legion. The members of DST were then treated to Father Paul McCourt narrating all the touching stories and lessons related to Lourdes.

8 Trainees covered 96 miles along the West Highland Way

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27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT CO: Lt Col B Reehal • Adjt: Capt R Limbu • RSM: WO1 R Simpson Op GOLDEN ORB – By 2Lt Harris Asher and 2Lt Connie O’Grady.

Saturday 6 May 2023 saw the Coronation of King Charles III. Over 6,000 members of the British Armed Forces, as well as personnel from 35 Commonwealth countries, played a part in the pageantry. The RLC played a vital part in providing real-life support (RLS) that ensured the parade, which was the largest military ceremonial operation in over 70 years, and the largest move by rail since Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral, could take place.

Work began on 24 Apr 23, with the establishment of three concentration areas for British Army soldiers at Aldershot, Longmoor and Pirbright. Between these concentration areas, 2,204 SP were housed, fed, and given space to practice their drill with the help of members of the Army School of Ceremonial.

In a space that measured just 330 x 200m, over 1,000 SP came together to create Concentration Area Pirbright (CA(P)). Represented were: 380 members from across 40 nations of the Commonwealth, Overseas Territories and Realms; 536 members of various cap badges across the British Army and RLS was provided by 140 members of 27 Regiment RLC. Packed into CA(P) was a café, a barber, a 24-hour prayer room, a welfare centre, a tailor, armoury, a medical centre, a dining hall and the Commonwealth Hub. The BFBS ice cream van even paid a visit, instantly boosting morale.

This, coupled with the mix of many diverse cultures and British cap badges, gave Pirbright an electric atmosphere.

The first serial of Op GOLDEN ORB saw all parade personnel descend on RAF Odiham to conduct a daylight rehearsal of the procession. This involved the movement and control of over 70 coaches transporting soldiers, sailors, and aviators from concentration areas across the country. Members of 27 Regt

managed the coach movement in and out of the airfield, making sure that personnel were directed to their appropriate areas and could conduct the rehearsal in good order.

Four days later, the overnight rehearsal was underway with marching troops from the British Army moving from concentration areas via coaches to Farnborough and Alton railway stations, then onward to London Waterloo. 27 Regt soldiers and officers operated

8 380 members from 40 nations of the Commonwealth, Overseas Territories and Realms came together at CA(P)

8 The BFBS ice cream van was a real morale booster

at all stages, ensuring troops were marshalled at concentration areas.

The overnight rehearsal proved invaluable for the day itself, providing key lessons for the control of coaches and personnel.

For some members of the Commonwealth, it was their first time in London. One member of the Falkland Islands had never stepped foot in the UK; his very first time seeing sights such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament was during the overnight rehearsal.

On the day of Coronation, the marching contingents had an early start and were awake at 0200 hrs.

Coaches departed Pirbright at 0400 hrs for the first trains leaving Farnborough station at 0644 hrs.

All personnel were moved off the coaches and onto the trains by the train marshals, ready for the march over Westminster Bridge and into Wellington Barracks.

To round the whole day off, the RLS team threw a cohesion event at CA(P) to celebrate and congratulate all the members of marching contingents held there.

The night was spent eating, dancing and celebrating His Majesty the King’s Coronation.

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29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps SOUTH CERNEY CO: Lt Col E Sedgwick • Adjt: Capt Z Marsden • RSM: WO1 S Goldsborough 50 Squadron The previous quarter saw 29 Regiment RLC’s Very High Readiness (VHR) soldiers deploy on Op POLAR BEAR. SSgt Morris and Sgt Ramsay were deployed at short notice to establish the HQ for the Theatre Enabling Group to assist with the recovery of evacuated persons and military assets from Sudan.

Later they were followed by Cpl Books, Cpl Mewes, and Ptes Rai, Fletcher, Minhaz and Nyanjui; who assisted the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office in enabling the Temporary Safe Location (TSL) to help the evacuation effort. In a very short time, 2,300 multinationals and military personnel were evacuated.

This task also included the recovery of approximately 85 tonnes of military freight to be returned to the UK. The skills and talent of those deployed was noted with a personal thank you from PJHQ. 59 Squadron Sgt Martyn York has recently returned from a six-month tour having been employed in the International Donation Co-ordination Centre in Germany. 29 Regt currently has three SP deployed to the IDCC Operations Cell.

Sgt York was employed as a GLOC SNCO within the IDCC Ops Cell and was responsible for the planning and execution of surface transport, ensuring customs and dangerous goods regulations are adhered to across the continent.

This can range from large convoys of heavy equipment transporters for the movement of vehicles or ammunition, to small loads of medical supplies. In addition to managing UK’s lift across Europe, the GLOC Movements team also facilitates allied donor movements, planning and supplying transport for those countries without the assets to move organically, or for those who cannot due to geopolitical reasons. In addition to his primary duties, he was afforded 50

the RLC Boxing Night by Ptes Mohammed, Brass, and Moran.

They all fought impressively doing the Sqn and the Regt proud. The achievements of all the individuals and teams within the Sqn will come to a celebratory head with the marking of the Sqn’s 120th birthday.

8 Sgt York at Emden Port the opportunity to redeploy to Emden Port with the Deputy Minister of Infrastructure of Ukraine’s assistant to complete his Government Authorised Explosives Representative competency.

69 Squadron Despite SP being continually deployed on important exercises and operations abroad, 69 Sqn deployed troops on Ex CENTURION DAGGER. During the exercise conducted in Sennybridge, SP were tested on their BCD knowledge and abilities in a dismounted, and wet, close-combat environment. The exercise was topped off by the successful completion of the LCpl ALDP by LCpl Luckhurst.

In addition to this, 69 Sqn was heavily and bravely represented in

80 Squadron Soldiers from 80 Postal and Courier Sqn recently received the rare opportunity to practice their infil and exfil drills from a Chinook Helicopter. Ex CENTURION CHINOOK saw the troops patrol out onto the airfield in readiness for the arrival of the helicopter from RAF Odiham. After conducting swift loading drills, the Chinook took off and flew around the local area, including some low flights over camp and SFA. For many SP on board, this was their first ever flight in a helicopter.

Postal Courier Operators deploy all over the world, often operating on their own or part of a small team. Some of the locations they deploy to are required to deliver mail to remote locations. This training ensures they have experience of embarking and disembarking from a Chinook as well as giving them flight experience and a better understanding of the forces involved (especially the downdraft and how that can impact the loading and unloading of mail).

8 Postal Courier Operators conduct Chinook training

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150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL CO: Lt Col H McCullough • Adjt: Capt A Ellis • RSM: WO1 B Stephenson The last few months have seen monumental change at 150 Regiment RLC. Most notably the Regt had the privilege of welcoming 160 (Lincoln) Squadron to the Regt from 158 Regt RLC. To coincide with this the regimental badge was refreshed to incorporate 160 Sqn and better represent the Unit's heritage, whilst helping to aid recruitment and retention by galvanising the regimental identity.

Alternative shooting and flag change weekend The last assured event of the 22/23 training year saw the Regt come together with 160 Sqn for the first time to partake in an “Alternative Shooting” weekend. This included live firing, DCCT, archery and clay pigeon during the day; with a flag change ceremony and all ranks function being held in the evening.

As well as a good regimental turnout, the Regt was pleased to host members of the wider regimental family to thank them for their continued support. The Sunday saw the Regt receive a brief from the CO before wrapping up with potted sports, before departing in high spirits.

Reporting from around the world The Regt has been fortunate enough to have a number of reservist officers and soldiers take full advantage of the trawls on offer, to get out and practice their role alongside Regular counterparts. With personnel currently deployed in Germany, Kenya and Belize, either on exercise or as part of a standing commitment, 150 Regt personnel are certainly clocking up the air miles!

Sporting success Pte Benson has had his first taste of Army first XI cricket recently, after being selected for a place on the team to compete against the RAF. He no doubt made a lasting impression with a memorable

8 Officially welcoming 160 Sqn to the Regiment

Rescue Service, Hull City Council and Hull FC. The day saw those in attendance receive a number of briefs, including Army Leadership, diversity, and the lived experience before moving onto command tasks and a planning exercise. With positive feedback received, the Regt looks forward to running a second event in the summer.

8 Pte Benson in his Army Cricket Debut

inaugural appearance which saw him hit the ball for six on his first bat, bowl one player out and catch another out to help the Army secure a victory. Well done Pte Benson.

Ex ATLANTA EMBRACE The Regt was pleased to host Ex ATLANTA EMBRACE as part of a female leadership and development programme in partnership with Humberside Police. In support of civil and employer engagement, attendance was opened up to other prominent organisations within the area including Humberside Fire and

Trade progression As a transport regiment, 150 Regt is always striving to help personnel progress with qualifications that benefit them in the Reserves, but also within their civilian career. A significant number of personnel from across the Regt have gained their C+E license recently around their other commitments. As part of the Recruitment and Retention Pilot, the Regt is striving to streamline the training pipeline to reduce the time taken to progress.

8 Soldiers from 150 Regiment supporting Ex ASKARI STORM in Kenya

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151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CROYDON CO: Lt Col E Lewis • Adjt: Capt O Roberts • RSM: WO1 S Jaffa

Much of the work behind the scenes this quarter was geared towards preparing 151 Regiment RLC for IOC (1 Jul 23) of the Future Soldier Implementation Order (IO).

The IO directs significant changes for 151 Regt. The key changes are the re-subordination of 871 Sqn from 162 Regt to 151 Regt and the re-rolling of 562 Sqn from a transport squadron to a tanker squadron. At this stage, estimates are being conducted to understand what the personnel and training implications of this are; and how the Regt can best pivot to accommodate them. Alongside the rest of the Army, members of 151 Regt have also been focussing on recruitment and the ‘Engage to Recruit’ drive. The Regt is planning several recruiting activities this year that it hasn’t explored before, but which nevertheless present an opportunity to expose it to the target audience of 26 – 34-year olds.

As the training year came to an end, the Regt was on track to have

8 Ex COCKNEY TRIDENT LAKES was based at the RLC AT lodge

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121 service personnel achieve their Certificate of Efficiency – broadly in line with previous years. Training wise, there has been a real push on AT, which research data suggests is one of the most retention positive forms of training the Army Reserve conducts.

Ex COCKNEY TRIDEN SKI 2023 Ex COCKNEY TRIDEN SKI was the Regt’s annual ski expedition. This year it covered Ski Foundation 1 and 2 (SF1 and SF2) at the Les Contamines ski area, France. 17 service personnel (SP) from all ranks attended this expedition along with a returning instructor from 2022, LCpl Shire (4 Rangers) and two new external instructors; Lt Cdr Lockett (FAA) and Col McNeil (PJHQ). Whilst the weather did not co-operate at times, the expedition was successful in covering all elements of the ski syllabus and challenging the SP. The SF1 ski group successfully had the novice skiers down on red runs by the end of the week and a hunger to return for more in 2024. The SF2 ski group all had their first tasters of ski touring, winter mountain safety and a challenging intro to off-piste skiing and tackling “ski variables”.

All the SP were successful in passing either SF1 or SF2, which was pleasing. The Regt is grateful for the support from the instructors and the RLC Association, through the One Day’s Pay scheme, for enabling this expedition.

8 There was no lack of snow on Ex COCKNEY TRIDEN SKI 2023

Ex COCKNEY TRIDENT LAKES 24-26 Feb 23 SP from 151 Regt took on the Lake District during a tepid February, for their AT exercise. Based at the RLC lodge, the activities available explored the pastoral Pennines through hiking, mountain biking and climbing Scafell Pike.

Scafell Pike was the ambition of the mountaineers and they had excellent luck with the weather, enjoying the view between bursts of cloud. Red-faced and red-eared in the minus 5˚ wind, they celebrated at the tallest point in England.

Everyone had the opportunity to push their comfort zones when it came to the Mountain Biking through a range of routes and gradients. Ptes O’Connell and Hodgkins led the mixed rank groups and challenged every person to push themselves.

Next quarter The next quarter was also a busy one for the Regt. Six soldiers returned from their deployment on Op TOSCA, one of the Sqn OCs is deployed to the USA in support of 3 Div’s WARFIGHTER exercise; the RTWO will again be leading the Army Reserve shooting team in the US and the Regt is also providing support to LONDIST’s ’13 Bridges’ event for Armed Forces Day.

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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 Ex GREEN SHADOW 3 120 members of 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC deployed to Kinnegar Logistic base where the Regt develops its training capability from previous exercises. RHQ was responsible for assessing Sqn planning abilities, providing direction and guidance to assist in the planning cycle. 220 and 211 Tkr Sqns were tasked to conduct road moves around Northern Ireland, utilising the ICAV simulator system to conduct Distribution Points in the virtual enviroment. 400 Pet Sqn were tasked to establish a Bulk Fuel Installation whilst 227 HQ Sqn were responsible for ensuring all RLS requirement for the Regt was met.

Regimental operational shooting competition Training year 22/23 concluded with the Regimental Operational Shooting competition, held at Ballykinler Training Centre. After some excellent marksmanship, 400 Pet Op Sqn were crowned the winners, some of whom will represent the Regt at the ARRC and Army shooting competitions.

152 (North Irish) Regiment celebrates RLC30 in Northern Ireland By 2Lt C R Lindsay A Troop Commander 211 Tanker Squadron Over the weekend 20-22 May, 152 Regt RLC celebrated RLC30 on the north coast of the Province in collaboration with 38 (Irish)

8 The 152 Regt RLC30 Regimental Open Day

8 Several expressions of interest were received at the RLC30 Open day

Brigade, the Reserve Forces and Cadet Association and the Causeway Coast & Glens Council.

This wasn’t the first event to mark this key date in the Corps’ history. On 5 Apr 23, on the anniversary of the RLC’s formation, the Regt joined other RLC reserve units in a ‘Four Peaks Challenge’ to ascend the four highest peaks in the UK simultaneously at sunrise.

On 20 May 23, the Regt organised an open day with support from other army reserve units and cadet associations, within the picture postcard location of the West Bay beach at Portrush. The following day, the Regt held a service of thanksgiving to reaffirm our Freedom of Coleraine, kindly granted in 2008. These events provided an excellent platform to engage with local communities from

across the spectrum of the Armed Forces family in Northern Ireland.

During the open day, activities included vehicle displays and recruitment stands, with the key events, an eye-catching Gun Salute from 206 (Ulster) Battery Royal Artillery and 152 Regimental Bugles, Pipes and Drums display.

The busy nature of this event displayed the dedication and absolute professionalism from all of our personnel. As a people focused organisation, that professionalism allowed the Regt to enhance and sustain its reputation.

On Sunday, the Pipes & Drums led three guards from 152 Regt RLC and a cadet detachment to St Patrick’s Church, Coleraine. The service of thanksgiving was held to affirm the Freedom of Coleraine, the Regt's commitment to the Royal Logistic Corps, and loyalty to HM King Charles III. The Regt's Honorary Colonel, Col A Millar, the Lord Lieutenant of County Londonderry, took the salute along with Brig Gillian Wilkinson, who previously served in 152 Regt and Col Phil Stone, Corps Colonel Reserves.

Without the demanding work and selfless commitment from all of the Regt's officers and soldiers, none of this would have been possible.

8 The Freedom of Colraine Parade

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154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DUNFERMLINE CO: Lt Col S Johnson MBE • Adjt: Capt P Ryan • RSM: WO1 A Maloney 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC continues to forge ahead with its re-subordination to 4 Light Brigade Combat Team (LBCT) and welcomes the challenges that brings. The Regt must re-zero its training and mindset to that of a second-line logistic regiment in order to bring adequate support to its dependent units. Mostly this has distilled as tailoring driver training, and a sharper focus on close support and combat skills.

In May, the Regt deployed the football team to Cyprus, led by Lt Marshall, SSgt Wardle, Sgt Pottie and Sgt Garrity. The team played various Army and RAF units from the British contingent in Cyprus, as well as training with local staff. The event was a total success, and was thoroughly enjoyed by all who took part, continuing the Regt’s success with football this year.

With similar success, and to celebrate the Corps’ official 30th Birthday, in Apr 23 the Regt despatched a team to climb the Four Peaks under Maj Urquhart and WO2 Knox. Battling through severe inclement weather, they were able to firmly plant the flag of the Corps.

In Dunfermline, home of 239 and 8 154 Regt climbers overcame severe weather to mark the RLC’s 30th birthday

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527 (HQ) Squadrons, on 13 Aug 23 the ground was broken for the new ARRC building. The new building will be the home of Headquarters and 239 Squadrons for many years to come, with the brand-new facilities supporting the Sqn's training and daily work.

The Regt’s engagement with Army Motorsport has continued, in particular Pte Storm and Pte Welsh, who came fifth overall, and first in the Army, at Ex SAXON EXPRESS at Bovington. Through rancid weather conditions and

8 Ptes Storm and Welsh placed 1st in the Army at Ex SAXON EXPRESS

waterlogged, sandy soil, they persevered, demonstrating their tenacity and expertise.

Late in July, the Regt congratulated 2Lt Barnes on completing his commissioning course, and welcomes him into the 154 RLC Officers’ Mess. In August the Regt will also welcome Lt Col Stewart as its new UESO and Capt Pryor as Adjutant.

8 A 154RLC piper keeps spirits up on the 4 Peaks ascent

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156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL CO: Lt Col T Steed • Adjt: Capt B Griffin • RSM: WO1 R Thomas The new training year commenced in April and since then 156 Regiment RLC has completed a number of valuable training weekends, including; ACMT, BCS and Driver/Trade training. The experience gained here will ensure the soldiers are well prepared for deployment on Ex IRON TITAN 23 in September.

The Regt also continued to support Op INTERFLEX and contributed to Corps and RPOC events marking RLC30 and the Battle of the Atlantic. Concurrent to all this, several AT events were undertaken, including hill walking, rock climbing and sailing.

Preparations have also begun for Ex NORTHERN LIGHTS, the Regt’s overseas AT Exped, which will see 156 SP deploy to Iceland for seven days of mountaineering covering over 80kms along the scenic Laugavegur route.

RLC30 On 5 Apr 23, soldiers and officers from 156 Regt marked the 30th anniversary of the Corps by climbing Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain. The group climbed through the night, ready to mark the occasion come dawn, alongside other units that had climbed Mt Snowden, Ben Nevis and Slieve Donard. Despite very poor weather, the climb was a great success, and the Corps’ flag was unfurled come daybreak.

8 Since April training weekends, have included: ACMT, BCS and driver training

ships, RAF flypasts and a military village. Over 40 SP from 156 Regt supported the three-day event, resourcing a variety of stands that demonstrated army capabilities.

Op INTERFLEX 8 Battle of the Atlantic 80 in Liverpool

Battle of the Atlantic The Battle of the Atlantic 80th anniversary celebration was a Tri-Service event commemorating the longest continuous military campaign of the Second World War. The event was quite a spectacle, featuring numerous Navy

In June 2023, 156 Regt SP assumed command of Op INTERFLEX’s Handling and Processing facility (HAP) at South Cerney. The HAP receives all Ukrainian soldiers commencing training in the UK, ensuring that they are properly equipped for the training ahead. The Regt will remain on task until December and expects to facilitate the training of over 16,000 Ukrainians in this time.

Looking forward The Regt’s current main effort is a successful deployment on Ex IRON TITAN 23 in September. This will see the Unit deploy two Troops in support of 10 QOGLR and 27 Regt RLC. While deployed, the soldiers and officers will conduct an LFTT package and gain valuable trade experience while working alongside partner units.

8 Marking RLC30 at the summit of Scafell Pike on 5 Apr 23

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157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CARDIFF CO: Lt Col A Briggs • Adjt: Capt R Sayer • RSM: WO1 C Jones

Now 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC is firmly into training year 23/24, it is worthwhile looking back on everything accomplished throughout 22/23 as the Regt strives towards being useful, usable and used. A highly successful year, TY22/23 was designed to test the reservists whilst embracing the new ITRs and enhance the Regt’s reputation across the Army.

In total 157 Regt conducted 93 separate training events across six countries and facilitated 120 reservists achieving their annual Certificate of Efficiency and gaining their bounty. The Regt mobilised 20 reservists across various UK resilience Ops such as support to the Welsh Ambulance Trust, the Commonwealth Games and Op INTERFLEX. The Regt also attended a staggering 199 separate recruiting events to encourage the next generation of reservists to commence their journeys with 157 Regt.

The 157 Regt Ski Team In March 2023 circa 20 members of the Regt got the opportunity to gain the Ski Foundation Level 1 or Level 2 in Les Contamines, France.

The conditions were exceptional with many powder days ensuring all were put through their paces.

Maj Claire Abel, who also planned and conducted the exercise, said that: “Conditions have never been so good, everyone loved it and it was a really enjoyable week. It is great to be able to put something like this on for reservists who have been working hard throughout this training year.”

Ex DRAGONS TORNADO 23 In June, eleven members of the Regt travelled to the Picos de Europa National Park in Northern Spain to conduct a multi-activity AT expedition, which included rock climbing, mountain biking and summer mountaineering. With the weather switching between sunny days and storms, all participants 8 Mountain Biking in Northern Spain

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8 Regt Ski exped in France

got to enjoy all three activities, testing their confidence and skill set in the challenging terrain of Northern Spain. 2Lt Tim Johnston, who planned the exped, said: “It is a privilege to be able to conduct this type of training with reservists who are balancing their military careers alongside their civilian employment and busy personal lives. They all thoroughly enjoyed themselves and it is activity like this that will stay in their memories for a long time.”

Farewells The Regt would like to say thank you and goodbye to those who have left for pastures new in recent months. The Executive Officer (XO) Maj Matt Winchester, leaves after his two years in Cardiff for a posting at 16th US Sustainment Bde in Ramstein. Maj’s Claire Abel (OC 580 Sqn) and Nick Stacey (OC 249 Sqn) have moved on to WUOTC and 101X respectively.

The Adjutant, Capt James Restell departs to learn Dutch at the Defence Academy prior to an appointment at the Dutch Land Warfare Centre. Finally, our RCMO of the last 17 years, Capt Glenn Hall MBE, has finally called time on his 48-year military career and is looking forward to his retirement in Barry. Capt Hall’s contributions to this Regt have been immense during his tenure and we wish him all the best for the future.

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158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH CO: Lt Col A Swales MBE • Adjt: Capt J Eddie • RSM: WO1 E Eversley The last quarter has been a busy one for 158 Regiment RLC. The major focus has been a regimental re-structuring, under the Integrated Review. The Regt has reorganised from a transport regiment to a reserve aviation support regiment.

The Regt lost two sub-units to 150 Regt RLC and 159 Regt RLC, whilst also gaining two sub-units, one from 159 Regt RLC and the other from 6 Regt AAC; which is unprecedented. The re-structuring is a fantastic opportunity, however, for the Regt and its SP. Gaining a sqn of AAC SP and the introduction of a fuel transport capability, offers the chance for the Regt to put on some excellent training, brining things back to basics and looking into the future of supporting the Aviation BCT. In addition to the planning of training, whilst also looking to keep recruitment and retention at the core of everything the Regt does, four CSTs and trailers were delivered from BATUS to the UK. After an in-depth repair and restore programme, the Regt will finally take delivery of these and be able to incorporate them into future training.

This quarter also saw the Regt take first place at the RLC Clay Target Corps Team Championships.

Held at Bramley, the team achieved a fantastic result after keeping some stiff competition at bay and scoring 188 points. Not only did the Regt win the Championship, they

also took the award of Reserve High Gun, with a Private soldier from 261 (Horsa) Sqn, based in Milton Keynes, registering an individual score of 73 out of 100.

The Regt also deployed to Snowdonia National Park to conduct some AT. The multi-activity package included walking, caving, mountain biking, climbing, sailing and paddling. With the focus squarely on developing personal skills in leadership and confidence, as well as exposing some of the reservists and Permanent Staff to some controlled risk, this was also an opportunity, after a busy few months, for the officers and soldiers to let their hair down whilst also reflecting on what the remainder of the year holds for them.

8 The winning clay target team

The STEELBACK series of exercises have been in full swing with Ex SB12, one and two being completed. Ex SB 12 was focused at troop level training. SP took to the road to develop their driving skills in packets, as well as working on route cards, night driving and manoeuvring. Ex SB1 was more of a capability demonstration, particularly as the Regt had deployed its newly resubordinated 261 Sqn, who just days before were badged AAC. This was an opportunity for the Regt to really understand what its role is as part of the Avn BCT and showcase this to its newly acquired sqns whilst bringing them into the fold. Ex SB2 focused on cross country driving, a favourite of all RLC drivers. The intent of this exercise was to have SP who are confident and competent in driving on all terrain, in all environments in all likely vehicle variants. In addition to the SB series, SP from 158 Regt also deployed on Ex CAESARS RUN with 7Bn REME. This mini-CAST exercise was to prepare the BSG for validation in the coming months and ensure that 158 can plug into 7Bn to provide Log Sp to the Avn BCT. 8 Mountain Biking in Snowdonia

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159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COVENTRY CO: Lt Col A Heather • Adjt: Capt W Douglas • RSM: WO1 P Whiting 159 Regiment RLC continues to provide opportunities across training and operations while members of the Regt support each other over a range of other activities. Whether working toward individual goals, attending training events or planning experiences for others; all ranks have shown their willingness to continue supporting each other.

Ex BARBARIAN TRUST opened the New Year with a weekend of trade training scenarios, ITRs and an RFT to blow off some cobwebs.

While continued Log Spec training included developing the C2 of a Field Storage Area and Command Post; 203 Tpt Sqn from 158 Regt joined the exercise in anticipation of its formal re-subordination in Apr 23.

An opportunity to get back on the slopes with Ex DRAGON BARBARIAN SKI in France was not to be missed. While external instructors provided the bulk of the tuition, it was great to see 159 Regt’s own Cpl Danni Parker take the lead, passing on her own experience and knowledge.

Unsurprisingly it was another well-received event with everyone pushed just beyond their comfort zones and showing fantastic development in their own team-work, leadership and decision making.

February saw Ex BARBARIAN DRIVE in Nesscliffe, with troops keen to further their understanding of their vehicles and refresh their skills. The exercise was a great opportunity to go back to basics.

Once the refreshes on JAMES, first parading etc. were done, the green fleet was back on the area. With convoy drills as a foundation, a reintroduction to contact and anti-ambush drills was well received. The exercise planning team appreciated overhearing…

“This was a weekend to remember,” … from some as they headed for transport back to their civilian jobs the following morning.

While all of this was going on, 58

numerous individuals attend DSLA Worthy Down, successfully completing their Class 1 LSS course and RLC Captain’s Courses.

Meanwhile some of our CMTs joined 1 Regt (thank you) for their Team Medic courses, returning with much praise for their regular counterparts.

It wasn’t all trade and classroom work though, with Pte Kenyon joining The RLC’s AT initiative, achieving his SMF qualification.

Ex HALBERD SCHOLAR partnered Regular and Reserve JNCOs from across the Bde to deliver some invaluable leadership training, tailored specifically for the Regt’s newest commanders. Two

8 Lt Cartern ran a series of basic skills range packages for the Regt

8 Soldiers awarded their Class 1 LSS certificated at DLSA

days of lessons, workshops and fireside chats wouldn’t have been enough without making sure there was the opportunity to practice commanding some foot-drill, rather than being marched through it. The Regt extends a particular thanks to WO1 (Army SM) Carney and the Defence Dyslexia Network, whose briefs really brought home the significance of our JNCOs’ new responsibilities to their troops.

The training year culminated with the Regimental Military Skills Competition and its own awards evening. The focus was the announcement of the 2022/23 Hawley Trophy winner – the Sqn with the highest score across multiple events over the year.

Congratulations went to OC 123 Sqn, Maj K Taylor, taking the prize on behalf of his Sqn. The evening was also a fantastic opportunity to recognise Cpl Newey as Junior Commander of the Year, Pte Masakovskis as Private soldier of the year and those who contributed directly to Op BRIDGE. The highlight of the evening remained the opportunity to welcome our own Chelsea Pensioner, WO2 Robert Lonsdale, to his first of hopefully many regimental functions.

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162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM CO: Lt Col W Steel MBE • Adjt: Capt O Lewis • RSM: WO1 D Teal Ex KRONOS HUNTER The culmination of several months of planning and preparation in mid-May, saw 162 Regiment RLC deploy to Cyprus on Ex KRONOS HUNTER 3. Members of the Regt were joined by individuals from 151 Regt, 29 Regt, 30 Sig Regt, 2 Med Regt and 2 OSG. To kick off the exercise the Regt took part in a two-day range package at Akrotiri ranges, which challenged and tested the reserve soldiers. The first day focussed on soldiers zeroing their weapons and then moving onto the pre–Annual Combat Marksmanship Test (ACMT) to prepare them for the actual ACMT on the second day.

Throughout the exercise members of the Regt had the opportunity to take part in cultural and sporting activities. These included trips to the United Nations Protected Area (UNPA) which is in the buffer zone between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot sides of the island. The soldiers were guided around the abandoned airport and given a brief on the history of the conflict in Cyprus, they also had the opportunity to explore Nicosia and cross the border into Northern Cyprus. Moving on to the exercise phase; after the receipt of orders the exercising company deployed onto the training area and on the afternoon of the first day the soldiers got to experience a helicopter insertion in a Puma, giving many individuals their first ride in a helicopter. Over the next three days the exercising troops conducted patrols, setting up of observation points, occupation of a

8 Members of the Regt on the Akrotiri ranges

8 LCpl Taylor, 281 Sqn, joined The RLC Op GOLDEN ORB marching contingent

harbour area and a final attack on a small village.

The exercise was testing with the soldiers experiencing tough conditions that included high heat and rough terrain, unfamiliar to those who had not trained in this kind of environment before. After a week and a half in Cyprus everyone deployed back to the UK to conduct trade training at South Cerney. This was a structed programme which saw people focussing on improving their trade knowledge to enable greater deployability in the future.

The overseas training exercise (OTX) gave the soldiers the

opportunity to develop their military skills in a learning environment that gave them the space to test and adjust. Before deploying on the OTX, the majority of the Unit's soldiers had never been on an oversees exercise, in a military helicopter or fired pistol. The opportunities for personal development could simply not be replicated back in the UK, so for some this may have been a once in a lifetime experience. The subsequent trade training enabled them to hone their trade skills making them more deployable and employable in their trade roles.

Op GOLDEN ORB LCpl Taylor from 281 Sqn took the once in a lifetime opportunity to take part in Op GOLDEN ORB - the Coronation of King Charles. The build-up consisted of low-level drill training slowly ramping up to full rehearsals. The day itself started at 0230hrs and LCpl Taylor and others took a bus and then train from Pirbright to Waterloo. After some admin, food and hydration they marched in reverse order to Whitehall to wait for the Royal procession and then paraded back to Buckingham Palace. The highlight for LCpl Taylor was three cheers in front of the Royal Family and he says he feels very lucky to have taken part in such an event.

8 Several soldiers had their first helicopter flight on Ex KRONOS HUNTER

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165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC PLYMOUTH CO: Lt Col G Symonds • Adjt: Capt A Stephenson • RSM: WO1 R Ligairi Since February, 165 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC has been focussing on retention, recruiting and building readiness in preparation for the annual continuous training camp (ACT) later in the year. The biggest regimental event this spring was Ten Tors, which saw 265 Port Sqn supported by regimental personnel provide plant and vehicle control support, in support of HQSW. Looking forward to the summer, the Regt will continue to develop its soldiers delivering trade, conceptual and adventurous training to ensure the Regt is prepared to run the Sea Mounting Centre (Marchwood) and logistic beach unit (Browndown beach) during the ACT main exercise.

142 (Queen’s Own Oxfordshire Hussars) Vehicle Squadron After achieving their CoE, members of 142 Sqn have prioritised increasing the currency and competency of the VS personnel.

Additionally, they have been conducting various “Engage to Recruit” events throughout the last quarter and are set to continue this through the summer. 142 Sqn has said farewell to Maj John Nevitt, and warmly welcomes the return of Maj Andy Lister, who has now taken up position as the OC. 232 Port Squadron Over the past three months 232 Squadron has been working towards individual CoEs, with the final event, focussing on weapons, communications, CBRN and physical tests. The Sqn led on the preparations for Armed Forces Day in Falmouth, Cornwall, in June, which included numerous flag raising ceremonies. Additionally, the Sqn prepared for the Royal Cornwall Show and assisted with the Ten Tors.

265 Port Squadron 265 Port Sqn took the lead for the traffic management element of the 60

Ten Tors event, providing workforce, liaison and damage control. Working on “Engage to Recruit” activities, 265 Sqn was involved in the Plymouth half-marathon and also had individuals running. The Sqn was sad to say goodbye to the SSM, WO2 Farrell, in April.

266 Port Squadron 266 Sqn’s recruiting team has assisted 11 Brigade with its engagement events, delivering leadership challenges to over 130 south coast companies on Longmoor Training Area. It also hosted a Southeast regional forces’ employer engagement event at Southampton, offering local companies a chance to engage.

The Sqn delivered an excellent special to arm training exercise in Caerwent, where soldiers practised their section battle drills and

8 STA training weekend at Wkye Regis in Dorset

8 Members of 266 Sqn at the Plymouth Half Marathon

battlefield first aid skills. The Sqn also led an expedition to Kalymnos, Greece, testing individuals’ skills and determination to work outside their comfort zone on some very challenging, but rewarding, climbing sites. Members from across the Regt attained single pitch foundation qualifications.

266 Sqn said farewell to Maj Mark Cowling MBE, and welcomed the new OC, Maj Alexander Gannon. The Regt also welcomed 2Lt Connie James on her successful commissioning into The RLC. 710 (Royal Buckinghamshire Hussars) Operational Hygiene Squadron With six volunteers currently mobilised on Op ILKANE, the Sqn taking over the distributed training of operational hygiene from DLSA, delivering a special to arm training exercise in Bramley and mountain biking in Mallorca, the Sqn has not stopped. 710 Sqn also provided the operational hygiene support to Ex WESSEX STORM during February and March with LCpl Vaughan stepping up as the Detachment Commander for the first time in challenging conditions.

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167 Catering Support Regiment RLC GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col M Dyos • Adjt: Capt C Richards • RSM: WO1 A Cartwright

167 Catering Support Regiment RLC has been extremely busy within the UK, supporting RLC30, by providing technical trade expertise to sustain over 800 personnel. This was achieved through a celebration in culinary provisioning, working alongside the regular component and relishing the opportunity to deliver the very best in logistical support.

Sgt Harrogate led the 167 Regt ‘live cook’ cohort that supported RLC30 with insightful management and planning strategies in order to empower the individual team members in learning and developing their key skills in a demanding and testing environment, assisted by Sgt Hayball, who utilised his wealth of knowledge and experience at every opportunity to provide solutions to complex problems in order to meet tight deadlines throughout the event. L/Cpl Assan-Mensah was the final member of the team and her constant ethos of hard work, selfless commitment and dedication was clearly demonstrated throughout the event, and she was dynamic and extremely proficient in her duties throughout.

The team’s repeated ability to improvise in their catering was again clearly demonstrated and was an integral part of the feeding solution due to the various resources and locations being used

8 Sgt Harrogate, Hayball and L/Cpl Assan-Mensah with the RLC30 catering team

8 The RLC30 Cake made by Sgt’s Conybeer and Sgt Wilson

in support of the event. The team’s physical and mental robustness were rigorously tested at all stages of the process. They met the demands with a measured and intelligent management style, providing the golden thread of catering support.

Additionally Sgt’s Conybeer and Wilson took on the challenge of producing an RLC30 inspired celebration cake, working tirelessly

8 Recruitment remains a key priority for 167 Regt RLC

in this catering discipline to produce a masterpiece in design and create the desired effect in showcasing the Regt’s resilience in support of the event. The team were professional, passionate and proud throughout, worthy ambassadors and worked collaboratively with their regular counterparts with evident ease.

Recruitment remains a key priority for 167 Regt and the recruitment team led by Capt Pemberton and WO2 Peace are the driving force behind an imaginative and effective team of recruiters who represent the armed forces to the wider public using a variety of information pathways, practical demonstrations and presentations. 167 Regt’s recruiting team also attended the RLC30 open day in Worthy Down.

167 Regt also hosted Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 2023 on Armed Forces Day, which showcased various culinary challenges for the Regular and Reserve army chefs in both live cook and field catering disciplines.

The Regt’s emerging priorities throughout the event were the culinary arts team competing, VIP functions and logistical support, which were overseen by WO2 (SQMS) Whitby and his team.

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2 Operational Support Group RLC (2OSG) GRANTHAM CO: Lt Col A Chambers • 2IC: Maj J Bastin • RSM: WO1 Allison Group overview With the implementation of the 23/24 Training Directive, 2 Operational Support Group is focusing on improving the overall availability and readiness of its personnel for what looks to be a busy year ahead. Training weekends have been plentiful with members of the Group continuing to improve and develop their trade skills and meet their ITR requirements. Concurrently the Group continues to raise its profile and support operations with Maj Sapwell continuing in her role on Op ILKANE, Maj Hicks on Op CROSSWAYS and Maj Kill preparing to deploy with RHQ ARRC on DEFENDER 23.

Ex KRONOS HUNTER 3 Elements of 500 Comms Troop recently returned from supporting Ex KRONOS HUNTER 3, whilst attached to 162 Regiment RLC. This exercise provided an opportunity for a number of personnel to achieve their ACT whilst also developing low level fieldcraft tactics and STA serials in Cyprus. The exercise itself provided unique opportunities for reserve personnel to conduct platoon level attacks across different terrains and buildings. Although not a 2OSG event this exercise provided yet more opportunities for reserve personnel to experience the unique ‘offer’ that the Army affords to personnel and no doubt provided long-lasting positive memories to those that attended, whilst concurrently improving their deployability and experience.

which provided excellent routes for the group. Two routes were completed, and the afternoon route was an arduous climb of over an hours’ worth of uphill, followed by an exhilarating decent across undulating ground taking in plenty of twists and turns.

The walking routes were similarly challenging. Hay Bluff was completed on the Friday which was a long and hard day’s walk.

Saturday saw Table Mountain being climbed; the almost summer conditions afforded participants some wonderful views of the Welsh countryside. 2OSG continues to focus and plan on AT opportunities as part of the ‘offer’ coming up on the agenda is a five-day event based around The Lake District National Park, followed by a nine-day event in Dartmoor. For AT enthusiasts, this is going to be an exciting summer!

Adventure Training (AT) 498 Labour Support Unit ran an AT exercise for members of 2OSG over the period 14-16 Apr 23. Based at Sennybridge, a mixed group of personnel undertook either a day’s mountain biking and a day’s walking/mountaineering or two days walking/mountaineering.

The mountain biking was based at Afan Mountain Biking Park,

Promotions, welcomes and farewells The Group would like to congratulate SSgt Andy Hale on his well-deserved promotion to WO2.

In terms of ‘hails and farewells’ the Group will see a significant number of key personnel move on to new jobs and opportunities. Of note Maj Nanovo is off to become Dep Comd Reserves 102

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8 SSgt Smith and LCpl Shaw supporting Ex KRONOS HUNTER 3, Cyprus

Operational Sustainment Brigade and Maj Wilson, WO2 Dempsey and WO2 Pounder are all retiring.

The Group would also like to wish Maj De Lusignan and Pte Cox all the best as they move to new assignments. On a more positive note, the Group is pleased to welcome Captain Adam Rough.

Looking forward Operational commitments later in the year will see 2OSG provide its specialist members to support the ARRC led Ex STEADFAST JUPITER and the Group’s ACT will take place in September balanced with more AT and an exciting battlefield tour to Jersey.

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

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British Army Training Unit KENYA SO3 CSS: Capt S Hwangbo Celebrating RLC30 in Kenya On the 30th anniversary of the Royal Logistic Corps’ formation, WO2 Michael ‘Mick’ McGee, SSgt Will Welch and the RLC30 Committee of BATUK planned, organised and delivered an RLC Open Day, as well as a fantastic RLC30 dinner night.

Every RLC trade in BATUK was represented on the open day, including Driver, Logistic Supply Specialist, Petroleum Operator, Postal & Courier Operator, Driver Communications Specialist, Movement Controller, Chef and Ammunition Technician (AT).

The stand that caught people’s attention the most was the AT stand, led by SSgt Doyle, Sgt Goulding and Cpl Jeyes. There were opportunities for families, friends, Locally Engaged Civilians (LEC), soldiers and officers to experience the simulated weight of a bomb suit, carrying simulated weight to go on a task to destroy Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) which BATUK ATs often do, saving the lives of people and animals. There were many items of UXO and conventional munitions on display, all of which an AT may come across on any given UXO task. There were even two search lanes, including one where visitors could experience the difficulty of conducting the ‘pin & gag’ on a Trip Wire Initiated Grenade (TWIG), and another where buried devices could be found using the Vallon.

Overall it was a fantastic day; well received by all members of BATUK. Opportunities in BATUK –

By Cpl Jeyes (AT) Kenya has proven to be a great place with a vast number of opportunities you simply don’t have access to in the UK; wildlife safaris being one of the obvious experiences. There is plenty of opportunity to attend various AT packages, including but not limited to: mountain biking, rock climbing, mountain climbing, archery,

kayaking and more. There have been chances to get away on battlefield studies to learn about the history of wars in Africa and see different parts of Africa as a result.

So far, I have attended a battlefield study where we were accommodated in Voi and travelled each day of the week to key locations of the First World War, discussed and learned about what happened in the location and what

8 The AT stand had something of interest for all ages

8 Postal & Courier were among the seven other RLC trades at the open day

we could learn from the past events. I have also taken part in the Rock-Climbing Single Pitch Foundation (RSF) Course, where I gained an Army-recognised qualification for rock climbing which allows to me to go onto further courses and develop my skills even more.

BATUK presents a lot of sporting opportunity from football, volleyball, basketball, golf, triathlon and more. Typically, BATUK staff are allowed a Wednesday afternoon away from work to take part in sport(s) of their choice, and sometimes a Friday morning too, as well as weekends. Each sport often raises the chance for its team members to travel away for a week to play their sport against other teams, greatly funded by BATUK, not at the expense of team members. Many of these teams visit Mombasa to play, as the volleyball and football team will by the end of this TDS rotation.

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The Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion GLOUCESTERSHIRE CO: Lt Col G Allen RLC • Adjt: Capt H Bennett • RSM: WO1 R Wiseman Ex FLYING JAVELIN 23 For the Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion, much of January was spent on Ex FLYING JAVELIN, and with over 1,000 soldiers from 1 Sig Bde deployed across the UK, it gave the Bn’s soldiers the opportunity to further their professional capacity, test new ideas, ensure readiness and prepare for the Bn’s role as a key part of the NATO Response Force (NRF) in 2024.

The exercise was a success in allowing the testing of the conceptual work that occurs in HQ ARRC. It saw the Bn effectively fulfilling its role as the enabling, sustaining and protecting force ahead of NRF next year.

Opening of the Buddhist Temple At a ceremony in early February, Lt Gen Nicholas Borton DSO MBE, Commander Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, officially opened the Bn’s brand-new Buddhist temple. The temple will enhance the moral component of fighting power within the Bn and deliver a new source of spiritual strength for many of its soldiers. Additionally, members of the Bn and their families raised an impressive £1,800 for the benefit of The Gurkha Museum. The success of the project was due to the hard work of the Bn’s Gurkha Major, Maj Baldeep Tamang; his efforts will

Gurung, deployed to Denmark to deliver the RLS component for Ex DYNAMIC FRONT 23. Over a period of six weeks, the team showcased its ability to provide vital support to a 3-star ARRC HQ, deployable anywhere in the world at a moment’s notice.

8 Lt Gen Borton at the Buddhist temple opening

leave a lasting impression on the Bn for years to come.

Ex SNOW SAPPER In February 2023, QGE and RE personnel deployed on Ex SNOW SAPPER in Austria for a week of skiing. It was an excellent opportunity for QGE Sappers to learn to ski and enjoy the experience after a busy year of exercise and training. All the novice participants achieved the Ski Foundation level one certificate.

Ex DYNAMIC FRONT Meanwhile, a large composite troop, ably led by Capt Lalkaji

The Battle of Imjin River dinner night In May 23, the Officers’ Mess hosted the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess, for the Battle of Imjin River Dinner Night. Centred around the Korean War, the Bn had the honour of hosting some of the few surviving veterans of the Glorious Glosters who fought at the battle, alongside Brig (Retd) Vine the last CO of the Regiment before its amalgamation, Brig Biggart the UK Senior Representative at HQ ARRC, and various other guests from the local community.

Readings telling the story of the battle were presented throughout the night, with dramatic decorations and reenactors lending more colour and bringing an impressive array of weapons to display. Under the direction of Maj Adam Wise, it was truly an evening to remember.

Ex JAVELIN TRIANGLE 23 In May 23, Power Troop and Close Support Troop (CST) personnel from 14 Sqn deployed to Wyke Regis Training Area as part of Exercise JAVELIN TRIANGLE 23 to carry out Combat Engineer training.

Organised by SSgt Bhupendra Gurung and his team, both the Engineer and CST personnel within the Sqn undertook key serials in mobility (watermanship, bridging), dry demolitions (counter-mobility) and sustainability. This provided a great opportunity to develop and validate engineers and assault pioneers, allowing troops to progress into further training and prepare for future exercises and the NRF in 2024.

8 Reenactors at the Imjin River dinner night

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20 Transport Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps LONDON OC: Maj C Frost • SSM: WO2 G Keen 20 Transport Squadron RLC has had a busy few months with primary focus being on the preparations for Op GOLDEN ORB. While busy, it has been able to exploit a number of exciting for opportunities for its SP. Skiing exped support Each year 20 Sqn supports a number of overseas skiing expeditions with coach driving personnel who are then given the fantastic opportunity of skiing at nil cost. This year, the Sqn managed to get nine soldiers away on various expeditions, all of which got to experience over a week of skiing in some of Europe’s best resorts.

These individuals will then form the basis of 20 Sqn’s first RLC SKI team for the 2024 season.

Defence Engagement at Wembley As a member of LONDIST, 20 Sqn has been fortunate to receive a number of opportunities to support Defence Engagement opportunities through the Football Association and Wembley Stadium. The most recent event was the Carabao Cup

8 Members of the Sqn before the Carabao Cup Final

Final, where four members of the Sqn participated in the pre-match flag bearing ceremony, which saw them get onto the pitch in front of a raucous 80,000 fans. Following the ceremony all four members of the team got free tickets to watch the sold-out match from the stands as Manchester United won on the day.

GOC LONDIST visit In March, the Sqn welcomed Maj Gen C J Ghika CBE, General Officer Commanding London District and Major General Household Division for a unit visit. He was briefed on 20 Sqn’s involvement in Op LONDON BRIDGE and the progress in planning for Op GOLDEN ORB. He was also shown the developments the Sqn is making on fleet innovation. This includes electric coaches and hydrogen cars, which are being trialled by 20 Sqn on behalf of Defence. This element included a brief by Sgt David Richardson of Surrey Police Force who operates a hydrogen vehicle as his daily patrol vehicle and could provide first hand knowledge of it’s

8 20 Sqn refined and developed its basic soldiering skills on Ex COCKNEY REBEL

benefits and drawbacks. Whilst visiting, the GOC handed out commendations to two Sqn personnel including SSgt John Tully for his exemplary contributions across a number of domestic operations during his tenure.

Ex COCKNEY REBEL 23 In March, the Sqn deployed on a CT1 exercise on Salisbury Plain to refine soldiering skills developed through the annual training pipeline. The exercise incorporated basic patrolling skills, close target reconnaissance, deliberate attacks and a bayonet range to finish! The exercise was a good opportunity for the soldiers to remain focussed on fieldcraft and soldiering skills in between a busy ceremonial calendar. Despite the adverse weather conditions, there were plenty of smiling faces and the quality of soldiering was commented on by the Directing Staff.

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THE SUSTAINER | OTHER UNITS

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44 Support Squadron Royal Military Academy SANDHURST OC: Maj M Barton • TCWO: WO1 L Brier 44 Support Squadron RLC is a part of the Station Support Unit 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 challenging but rewarding working environment.

Army officer training culminates with Ex DYNAMIC VICTORY, a two-week deployment to Germany, which is the pinnacle of the Sqn’s support profile. The Sqn plays a critical role in the support of the exercise while benefiting from excellent internal training opportunities. The transcontinental deployment provides ample opportunity for RLC Drivers and the chain of command to exercise their operational skills, from multi-day driving to ensuring all the customs regulations are met, while experiencing some German and US hospitality.

The Sqn deployed on Ex ESSENTIAL ACE, a cross-country driving exercise on the Eelmoor training area. This package had soldiers experience challenging driving conditions, a timed vehicle recovery stand, and basic convoy drills. The opportunity was also taken to invite Lt Col Dodge to visit and participate in cross-country driving.

The Sqn took the lead in supplying transport resources for RLC30, which necessitated the Sqn facilitating over 100 transport serials to support the event.

RMAS Chapel visit By Cpl Sobowale – A Tp 44 Sqn visited the RMAS chapel and Old College as a form of team cohesion and to learn about the history of the Academy.

Beyond individual introspection, the Sqn’s visit to the chapel fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among its members.

Bound by their shared purpose, they stood shoulder to shoulder, supporting one another through their presence. Conversations

8 Ex ESSENTIAL ACE vehicle recovery stand blossomed, stories were shared, and experiences exchanged, strengthening the bonds that hold the Sqn together.

The chapel visit left an indelible impression on each member of the Sqn. The experience served as a reminder of the importance of self-reflection, the power of unity, and the need to find solace amidst life's challenges. It instilled a renewed sense of purpose and invigorated their commitment to supporting one another through thick and thin.

Amidst the tranquillity of the sacred space, they found solace, reflected on their individual journey’s and forged deeper connections with one another.

8 Ex ESSENTIAL ACE lesson

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OTHER UNITS | THE SUSTAINER

British Forces Brunei - RLC Logistic Support BRUNEI SO3 Log Sp: Capt N Kelsey • GCWO: WO1 S Loghmani

Personnel from the Brunei Garrison Support Troops (GST) have taken part in a jungle experience event and overnighter in the Labi Jungle. Cpl Christian Delice, RLC Stores Section, spent the afternoon learning about how to survive in one of the most austere environments UK military personnel are exposed to.

Instructors from the Brunei Signal Troop led the Jungle Survival Skills demonstration stands.

They taught personnel about the natural flora and fauna; how to make water dehydration bags attached to trees; which plants could produce water for human consumption; how and where to find food - that is in abundance in the jungle - and how to identify whether it was safe for human consumption; in addition to how to make effective fire using lint. The evening activity started with the traditional Ghurkha ‘Curry Messing’ and was rounded off with games by the campfire and a lesson in how to set up our hammocks before retiring to our safe havens whilst trying to avoid the various wildlife that roams the jungle floor!

In March, WO1 Shahin Loghmani (GCWO) and LCpl Harry Southall (ASD JNCO) returned to the UK to compete in this year’s Army Taekwondo Championships in Aldershot. Both came away with

gold medals and selection for the Tri-Service Taekwondo team later in the year. Well done!

During the same month, DCOS BFB and the RLC contingent also bid farewell to its longest serving civilian worker, Mr Wee - the head chef at junior ranks kitchen in Medicina Lines. The SO3 Log Sp, the GCWO and UCM all thanked him for his hard work and commitment over the past 33 years.

RLC and QOGLR personnel have not only supported 1RGR troops on exercises in Australia and Thailand, but they have also provided an important link to dependants within the Garrison. On 23 Mar 23, Sgt Hemletta Gurung and Sgt Mukesh Rai organised a Chinese-themed practical cooking lesson for the students at Hornbill Primary School. The children were encouraged to get involved with chopping vegetables, preparing dough for dumplings and preparing batter and the sauce for sweet & sour chicken. The best part of the event was the taste testing!

The RLC Stores Section organised 3 FLCB (Hyster) courses as an initiative to uplift the deployment capability of the soldiers, whilst also enabling BFB Garrison departments to operate effectively. The course was led by SSgt Prabin Rai, QOGLR and delivered under the leadership of

8 Personnel at the RLC30 celebration Cpl Benyamin Limbu and Cpl Sijan Kauch. 16 SP and 2 LECs from across the Garrison successfully completed the course and also qualified as Hyster operators.

Two highlights this year were the celebrations for the 30th Anniversary of the Royal Logistic Corps and the Coronation of King Charles III. The celebrations were marked with an officers and seniors vs juniors basketball competition in which the officers and seniors came out victorious. The celebration continued in the evening with the RLC30 cake cutting ceremony. A video sent by RLC Corps SM to all outstations, along with readings by LCpl Harry Southall and The RLC poem read

by Sgt Hemletta Gurung, rounded off the formal activities. Food was provided by the exceptionally talented QOGLR chefs and refreshments cemented the close bond between RLC and QOGLR personnel within the Garrison. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by all.

To mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, RLC personnel were invited to the British High Commissioners reception in the Radisson Hotel in Bandar Seri Begawan.

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THE SUSTAINER | EXCHANGE VISIT

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An RLC Driver Communication Specialist inside Tactical Communications and Information Systems (TacCIS) Troop 13 Signal Regiment

By Cpl Bennellick (RLC) L3 TacCIS Engineer TacCIS Tp, 259 (GIS) Sqn, 13 Sig Regt Ex ORANGE LIGHTNING Netherlands, 12 – 16 Jun 23 Blandford Camp is home to the Defence School of Communications Information Systems (DSCIS). It also encompasses the 13 Sig Regt RHQ and 259 (GIS) Sig Sqn. A vital artery of which is TacCIS Tp, and within that there is a little-known cohort of willing RLC Driver Communication Specialist (DCS) L3 Engineers, supporting Land Environment TacCIS at a moment’s notice. These DCS will, without hesitation, triage, assist and advise any RLC unit that needs their help in the BCMS, BCIP and CIS domains. The following is an account of how Cpl Bennellick and his L3 colleagues were invited to join an interoperability visit to the Netherlands and the Dutch Marines’ CIS team.

Monday After the ‘hurt locker’ departure time of 0200hrs on 12 Jun, we made our way to Harwich port.

After eight hours on a ferry, I think everyone started to go stir crazy and I speak for all of us when I say we were so glad to get off.

The evening finished off with a meal with our POC CSgt Richards and the Dutch liaison on the ground, Sgt Renzo de Leeuw, before settling into our five-star Dutch military accommodation with a ‘Brucey Bonus’ of free brews in virtually every building, which was welcomed by the entire TacCIS team.

Tuesday First day of a week of early starts began in Van Ghent Kazerne Barracks with an introductory brief from the Dutch Marine’s Troop Commander CIS, Lt Paul Rijs. He led with a tongue in cheek video on his country and peoples’ common light-hearted misconceptions, 68

followed by a brief on his troop’s role and ORBAT. We were then kindly offered a tour of an ongoing ROM (Maintenance) course, which blew our minds due to the learning curve expected of them in such a technical subject. Next, we were shown their version of a LBTA

8 HMS ROTTERDAM's Antennas

8 Dutch Marine Corps mural, Rotterdam

(Land Rover Based Training Aid). A notable point was they could cable track from one port to another due to how the kit was laid out.

Following this we moved to Doorn, which houses the two working Dutch Marines units. This location is also home to the Marines SST, which is our Dutch Marine CIS service desk counterpart. They had recently had various issues come through to their desk, so what better time to discuss them when you’ve got six L3 TacCIS engineers from the UK Tri-Service service desk in front of you. They gave the issues to us to discuss to see our personal and technical views on them. This provided them with great technical suggestions to take away.

Following this we were shown around their working office, their NIMCIS (BOWMAN) test rack and the current in-service equipment that they as a CIS SPOC team have to advise on. We ended the day with a continental evening meal, a

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EXCHANGE VISIT | THE SUSTAINER

few drinks and watched Lt Ward-Lilley (R SIGNALS) tragically miss the black ball in a game of pool.

Wednesday The day started with a return move to the camp in Doorn. Whilst our hosts squared some admin, there was a bit of time for yet another free “wet” (brew) much to Sgt Speyer’s (RM) delight. Two minutes had elapsed since his last one!

Next, we moved to Driesprong training area. This was a good opportunity to visit Dutch students on the Marines’ CIS course at the eight week point whilst they were in the field. The NL SST then delivered a continuation presentation on example kit and configurations they are looking to trial. We then moved around their demonstrations which included SPR RF-7850, Trellisware and BRACER. All the stands proved intrinsic and fully absorbed the whole TacCIS cohort. Whilst here we had the pleasure of a NL field lunch provided by their main kitchen. It’s safe to say the British Army’s food contractors could take some pointers from their Dutch opposites.

The day finished with a move to our final accommodation for the next two nights in Nieuwe Haven, Den Helder.

Thursday Thursday was the last full day of activities. We had the pleasure of

being hosted onboard the Dutch Navy’s HMS ROTTERDAM. We were shown their MCO (Main Comms Office), their JBR (Joint Briefing Room), the HQ of the maritime 1-star staff, and the bridge; before having a technical discussion on the ship’s CIS equipment layout. We then went over to Texel to meet the Marines of 1 ATG, their BSM and the CIS team.

Here we looked over their Land Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVP), with the Dutch showing us an older and a newer variant with improvements to the BOWMAN fit.

We sat down and discussed some ongoing faults they had and offered some solutions - who doesn’t love digging into BCMS and looking at comms plans to assist others, which is our bread and

8 The TacCIS section with the SST TST team

butter here at TacCIS Tp. We returned to Nieuwe Haven, for a quick change before an evening social to say thank you and award (and receive) some gizzits to those individuals without whom we couldn’t have made this trip.

Friday Friday saw the team hit the road to catch the ferry home, arriving just in time! Once on board we enjoyed some rest, sleep and looked forward to the four-hour drive home once back on UK soil.

Despite the early starts and late finishes, I think can speak for everyone in the team to say it was a fantastic trip allowing us to put names to faces with the NL CIS SST and some other bits in between. The opportunity to collaborate and integrate with the NL version of TacCIS Tp has proved vital in continuing our links over here. The hospitality we enjoyed throughout the visit was second to none and we look forward to hosting the Dutch team on a visit to TacCIS sometime soon.

For more information on RLC Driver Communication Specialist roles for Cpl-SSgt within 259 (GIS) Sig Sqn, please contact your RCMO. For any BCIP TacCIS issues at unit level or any queries on the above job roles and the various opportunities they provide, please feel free to reach out to Cpl Bennellick. Email: Samuel.Bennellick215@mod.gov.uk 8 Visiting kit stands in the field

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORTS AWARDS

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2023 RLC Sports Awards

The 2023 Royal Logistic Corps Sports Awards were held at the St Omer Barracks Gymnasium on 6 Jul 23 courtesy of 27 Regiment RLC. Over 75 individuals and units were nominated for awards in 2023 which is testament to the strength and depth of the RLC’s sporting prowess and achievements.

Music for the evening was provided by the Army Medical Services Brass Quintet and the RLC Corps of Drums - courtesy of The Royal Corps of Army Music and the Colonel RLC, Col P Allen ADC. Sports Personality Sports Team

LCpl May Percival RLC Male and Female (Rugby League) Sports Coach Cpl Kerry Keane (Boxing) Sports Official Capt Bryan O’Donnell (Football) Young Sportswoman LCpl May Percival (Hockey) Young Sportsman Pte Lewis Harvey (Boxing) Sportswoman Pte Jerry-Lee Palmer (Boxing) Sportsman Capt Max Walker (Athletics & Cross Country) Outstanding Achievement Cpl Binod Gurung (Powerlifting) Sporting Ethos RLC Women’s Rugby Union Team Lifetime Achievement Maj Jacquie Barlow (Cross Country & Nordic Skiing) Awards Capt Mal Roberts (Rugby Union) Pioneer Spirit Award 6 Regiment RLC Hemming Belt Pte Jerry-Lee Palmer (Boxing) The RLC would like to thank the its sports sponsors: Army Sport, Briggs Defence, Motif8, KBR/FTX Logistics, Pearson TQ, Squarcle, Silver Lady, Peli Products, Agility, Mace and J&K Financial Solutions.

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SPORTS AWARDS | THE SUSTAINER

Photo credit: Cpl B McKenzie RLCVPT

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Scan to book

#BritishArmyLogistics Personnel from 11 EOD & Search Regiment RLC recently deployed on Ex TIGER FELIX JUMP, a skydiving expedition to California, USA. The aim of this exciting trip was to qualify as A-licenced skydivers. This licence allows individuals to jump on their own without instructors. This was achieved using the Accelerated Freefall Course which consisted of eight levels of jumping, ranging from two instructors at the start to finishing the course and jumping on your own. A further 10 consolidation jumps are then required to become a licensed skydiver.

The expedition gave a break from the busy life of duties within the Regt, with a valuable lessons learnt.

All personnel found this to be a testing experience, which was designed to push individuals out of their comfort zones and to learn a new skill in a high stress environment. Jumping out of a plane is not something everyone can do. Learning the skills needed to embrace the fear and more importantly overcome it is a lesson that all party members experienced on this expedition. Finally, learning to complete your required drills and movements in the sky was a testing experience for all that jumped.

13 of the 15 students achieved the above aim, which is a fantastic effort on all parts and all party members achieved at least one skydive each.

To say the expedition was a success is an understatement. This was with thanks to the instructors for the hard work and effort they put in to ensure the training was conducted in the safest and most efficient way possible; thanks goes

ADVENTUROUS TRAINING | THE SUSTAINER

Ex TIGER FELIX JUMP 23

to all the team at Skydive Perris and special thanks goes to Leonardo, Modux, ISSEE and the Felix Fund charity for additional

funding support. Finally, the support of the Regiment was imperative to making this once in a lifetime course possible.

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THE SUSTAINER | SNOW WARRIOR ADAPTIVE SKI

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Unleash Your Inner Snow Warrior: Conquer the Slopes with Adaptive Skiing

By Cpl Leah Jennings (RLC) JNCO Compassionate Cell MOD Abbey Wood In February 2023, I found myself journeying through the fascinating realm of adaptive skiing, assisting instructors to deliver serials for adaptive skiers during the Snow Warrior Adaptive Ski exercise. The sheer exhilaration of that experience has left an indelible mark, igniting a fire within me to pursue the Adaptive Ski Instructor's course that will be held early next year.

Adaptive skiing uses specialised equipment and training to allow military WIS personnel to experience the benefits of skiing. It unveils a sense of liberation that transcends all boundaries by providing a sense of freedom that is difficult for them to duplicate in other sports. It can be used to enhance personal goals, provide functional rehabilitation, develop confidence and provide a gateway to integrate them into other AT activities.

The Place - The Joint Services Mountain Training Centre (JSMTC) delivers the Joint Service Adventurous Training Alpine Ski Scheme from Obertsdorf, Bavaria but also utilises the two Wertach lodges for Ex Snow Warrior Concentration (SWC) and SWC Adaptive (A) delivery. Concurrently with Serial Four this year, an Adaptive Skiing Serial was delivered for six WIS Service Personnel (SP).

The People - Personnel attending SWC (A) courses are usually WIS SP assigned to a Permanent Recovery Unit (PRU) and are often patients of Defence Medical Services (DMS) who are diagnosed with physical and or neurological injuries. Their SWC (A) attendance is critical to their recovery pathway.

The Training Team - The Training Team includes a combination of Tri-Service Regular and Reserve military instructors trained and qualified through attending a Defence Adaptive Ski Instructor 74

(ASI) course. This transformative two-week course, held annually in January, equips them with an extensive skillset and knowledge.

From mastering specialised equipment to unveiling techniques, these instructors deliver training to individuals with various disabilities.

PREPARE Adaptive Instructors. Before embarking on the path of becoming an Adaptive Ski Instructor, prospective candidates are encouraged to immerse themselves in the world of adapted techniques and equipment. As aspiring assistants, they partake in an immersive serial that offers invaluable hands-on experience.

The demands of adaptive ski

instruction make it only suitable for some. Hence, the assistant serial ensures potential instructors understand how it is delivered before committing to the ASI course.

DEPLOY Instructor training. Skill fade is acute with adaptive skiing, so instructors and assistants deploy ahead of students in order to re-acquaint themselves with the numerous techniques associated with delivering adaptive skiing to accommodate a wide range of illnesses and disabilities. The focus is typically on (but not restricted to) mono-skis (single seated ski), bi-skis (more stable twin seated ski), 3-track (one ski and two ski riggers) and 4-track (both skis with ski riggers).

Student to Instructor selection.

The selection of the perfect student-instructor pair is an art form in itself. Ensuring that every student, regardless of their condition or disability, can partake in enjoyable skiing demands careful consideration.

The exercise aims to ensure the students can ski whatever their condition or disability, so careful consideration provides a suitable technique (mono-ski, bi-ski, 3, 4 track etc.) selected and delivered by

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the right instructor with suitable SQEP. Students arrive, engage with instructors, start their development plans, agree on a contract and understand what they want to achieve regarding clinical, physical, or development goals. The instructors invest unwavering dedication, studying each student's unique requirements, be it physical impairments, specialised assistance needs, or red flags.

Groupings are matched, instructors fine-tune their delivery techniques and equipment and prepare students to commence training.

DELIVER Student Training. There are often two distinct groups: 1 – stand up skiers and 2 – sit skiers. Stand-up skiers undertake the central theme as any SF1 course would, with modification to the activity (in terms of time taken and delivery methods) to cater for student needs.

Mono and Bi-skis. As with the stand-up skiers, the sit skiers work through the central themes with their Adaptive Instructors. Day 1 consists of equipment introduction, fitting and adjustment to meet the student's needs. Flat land drills are explicitly modified to a mono ski and then move to slide and introduction to turns. The central theme features all adaptive skiing techniques, but it is adjusted to suit the nature of skiing. The instructors are constantly assessing the student's progress and 'tweaking'

SNOW WARRIOR ADAPTIVE SKI | THE SUSTAINER

their approach to suit the needs of the students, and in the case of one of the students, a change in sit-ski rigs from a mono to a bi-ski was necessary to keep him moving.

Fatigue plays a big part in the student's progress, and the instructors constantly monitor their energy levels, taking ski breaks when necessary.

The key to delivery is not to overload students with information and to only change one element or piece of equipment at a time.

Students are encouraged to ski and learn alongside similar groupings and, where possible, ski together to team build and bond, share the challenge and experience, and promote a team ethos.

qualifications, adaptive skiing aspires to deliver ski AT in a safe and controlled environment and contribute to their recovery pathway.

The benefits are boundless in areas of personal goals, rehabilitation, confidence, and so on and provides an environment for students to integrate with activities such as AT. However, it needs a throughput of instructors to form the base to select and train. If you can contribute, and the notion of assisting people achieve excites you, engage with the key personalities below and embrace the wondrous journey that awaits you.

Adaptive skiing POCs: Adaptive OIC: Col Nick Richardson.

Email: nrichardson@dstl.r.mil.uk Training Manager: WO1 Alan Robertson. Email: Alan.Robertson705@mod.gov.uk

RECOVER WITH SUCCESS This serial saw two skiers achieve their SF1 award and one skier SF2, which is a testament to the students (and instructors) to apply themselves and achieve their goals. Beyond the

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THE SUSTAINER | SPORT Team RLC kicks off the military equestrian season with multiple successes.

The RAF championships at Sparsholt Equestrian Centre marked the official start of the military equestrian competition season.

Despite the competition falling over the Easter period, team RLC was present in full force, with riders competing at all levels (dressage, show jumping and arena eventing), from post-grassroots, up to Inter-Services (Loriners Inter-Services Competition Leg 1).

Before announcing the results, the team would like to welcome newcomers for this season, Capt Lara Dixon (1 Regt), WO1 Ben Wright (DE & S), Cpl Chris Davidson (attached to 4 SCOTS), Pte Lucy Egglestone (158 Regt), Pte Victoria Moxon (attached to 2 Med Regt), and Cpl Fern Cookson (11 EOD&S).

From the Army Grassroots League the previous year, WO1 Ben Wright advanced quickly. He put in the hard work and found a loan horse to team up with for the 2023 competition season.

A member of the Loriners team, Maj Becky Darke (29 Regt) competed at the highest level of military competition and defeated the RAF and the Royal Navy by a margin of 2% in the overall points.

A significant victory considering the Army team narrowly lost this leg in the 2022 campaign. Capt Lara Dixon and Cpl Chris Davidson finished in the top ten in the London Horse Show qualifier (1/3) which helped gain valuable points in their bid for a spot in the final which is held at the London Excel Centre in December 2023.

At the other end of the competition spectrum, we had the newcomers on their first time out at a military

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RLC Equestrian

8 Cpl Chris Davidson at the RWHS helping with timings and horse and rider preparation so that everyone looked their best.

The RLC team achieved over 14 podium finishes in all!

Other results UK Armed Forces Dressage Championships 4th Place Intro Level: Pte Egglestone (158 Regt) 4th Place Preliminary Level: Pte Leung (151 Regt) 8 WO1 Ben Wright competition either on hirelings (hired horses) or on their own/loan horses.

The team had a field day winning numerous prizes and gaining a lot of valuable experience.

A shout out goes to the invaluable ground support crew who helped with the simplest of tasks such as holding a horse, to

Army One Day Event 2nd Place at 90 cm: Pte Leung (151 Regt) A special mention goes to WO1 Ben Wright for making it through a superb round despite being eliminated for technicality in the show jumping phase.

Flying high at the Royal Windsor Horse Show The team was extremely pleased to have Capt Lara Dixon and Cpl Chris Davidson selected to form one of the four teams to compete in the Kingdom of Bahrain Services Jumping competition.

Both performed brilliantly in their first round of jumping, and Capt Dixon was chosen to jump the second round. The squad finished fourth out of 16 teams, missing a spot on the podium by seconds.

8 Team RLC Equestrian

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8 Brigadier Kevin John Watson Goad CBE ADC

OBITUARIES | THE SUSTAINER Brigadier Kevin Goad died in March 2023 at home in Banbury aged 81. He was born in Poona India, son of Christopher Goad, a REME officer, and his mother Molly. He lived in India until partition, returning to school in Yorkshire until his father was posted to Germany when, at the age of 13, he moved to Windsor School in Hamm where he was captain of cricket and rugby, head of Marlborough House and a keen CCF member.

He attended Sandhurst in 1961 where he was awarded the RAOC Sword and he was to fulfil a 36-year regular Army career, beginning as a platoon commander in the Training Battalion at Deepcut and ending as the first Chief Executive of the Defence Stores and Distribution Agency.

In early 1963 he was posted to 4 OFP in Dusseldorf, the first of many overseas tours.

Here he met Anne, the daughter of a RE major and they married in 1965 in Southampton.

Their first daughter Claire was born in 1966 and, after attending the Ordnance Officers Course, he was posted to Kluang in Malaya, commanding the Aircraft Workshop Stores Section. Kevin and Anne’s second daughter Annabelle was born in Kluang in 1968. A return to UK to attend the Ammunition Technical Officers’ Course was followed by the JCSC and a two-year tour (1970-1972) as an ATO in Northern Ireland, fulfilling both Province-wide ammunition duties and EOD operations, mainly in Belfast during a very demanding period of PIRA activity.

In 1972 he returned to the Far East, this time to Stonecutters Island in Hong Kong harbour as ATO and OIC of the ammunition depot.

A well-rounded early career now gathered pace and he attended Div 1 of the Army Staff Course, leaving Camberley in late 1974 to be DAQMG Ops at HQ 1 Armoured Division in Verden. After a demanding and successful tour under the GOC, the formidably intelligent and frequently acerbic John Stanier, Major Goad returned to the UK to Ord 1 in HQ DOS before returning to Germany and command of 44 RP Company in Paderborn and Pombsen.

Eight months at the National Defence

College at Latimer followed and early promotion to Lieutenant Colonel on the Directing Staff at the Royal Military College of Science at Shrivenham. A sign of his capacity for hard work was the joint author of a major book with DH Halsey entitled ‘Ammunition including grenades and mines’. In the days before laptops, his drafts would have been in his exquisite copper plate handwriting.

1982 brought yet another return to BAOR and command of 4 Ordnance Battalion in Herford. He brought all his experience to this post and the Unit thrived under his leadership and example.

After a short tour in Rheindahlen, Kevin was promoted full Colonel and went to Donnington as Senior Stores Officer and then to Stanmore, joining the Military Secretary’s staff as Colonel PB 9. He brought even-handed judgement and professional rigour to every appointment and he was as perfect a choice as you could get for this officers’ career management post.

It was no surprise that promotion to Brigadier followed in 1992 when he became the Commandant at Bicester. His last job was to be Chief Executive of the Army Stores and Distribution Agency at HQ QMG in Andover.

He became an ADC to the Queen and was honoured with the CBE in the 1997 New Year Honours List.

After retirement from the Army he worked as a consultant and for SSAFA and fulfilled an important voluntary role as chairman of the Corps benevolence committee and brought a huge degree of wisdom to all matters around the fraternity of the RAOC and RLC, always in his characteristically generous and self-deprecating way.

First and foremost a family man, the family were everything to him in retirement, ever the party and trip organiser for Anne, Claire and Bella and his grandchildren. A funeral and Service of Thanksgiving for Brigadier Kevin Goad CBE ADC was held on Thursday 20 April, at the Church of St Peter and St Paul, Kings Sutton, Banbury in the presence of his widow Anne, daughters Claire and Bella and grandchildren Hugo, Annabel, Harry, Sophie and Felix.

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THE SUSTAINER | LAST POST

8 Major General David Botting CB CBE

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David Botting, the last Director General Ordnance Services and professional head of the RAOC, has died aged 85 in Salisbury.

His 36-year Army career began as post-colonial withdrawal was gathering pace and ended after the end of the Cold War. Born in London in 1937, the son of a RAF officer, at just over two, David was evacuated into his grandmother’s care in Fraserburgh on the Aberdeenshire coast where his schooling began before returning to war torn London and St Paul’s School in Hammersmith.

He entered National Service in 1956 and commissioned from Eaton Hall into the RAOC at just 19 in January 1957, gaining a regular commission a year later. Initially he served at Kineton, Blackdown, Corsham and Bramley, the last two after attending the ATOs course in 1961. In January 1962 he married Anne, at her home village of Eversley. They had met on the am dram stage, Anne an accomplished performer, which she remained and a partnership had formed.Whenever possible they were by each other’s side, despite the occasional separating demands of Army life.

In April 1963 David played in the Army rugby cup final for 28 Company Bramley in a side that included the Scottish international, Norman Bruce. They lost narrowly 9-6 to the Welsh Guards. Sport was an important part of his life and he played Corps rugby and cricket and thoroughly enjoyed golf until near the end of his life.

He commanded an independent Platoon supporting the Malkara anti-tank guided missile including test firings in the Libyan Desert, before moving to the Far East, David serving as an ATO in Borneo, Singapore and Malaya between 1965 and 1967. He won a place at the Staff College and the family returned to Shrivenham and Camberley, graduating in 1969. After a weapons staff job in Ammunition research and development the Bottings embarked on a series of tours in Germany, beginning at Ironside Barracks Scheun near Celle.The young officers who served in that barracks where he commanded 11 OFP recall with pleasure and gratitude the influence David and Anne had on their careers, personal and family morale and well-being.

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After 11 OFP he was DAA & QMG in HQ 1st Division before promotion to Lieutenant Colonel in 1975 and command of 154 FAD in Wulfen. This appointment was followed by tours as AQMG Logistic Secretariat in LE(A) Andover and then return to Germany as Commander Supply 3 Armoured Division/CO 3 Ord Bn. In 1982 he was promoted to Colonel as Colonel AQ in 1st Armoured Division and in 1985 promoted Brigadier on appointment as Commander Supply 1st British Corps. In December 1987 he was posted to HQ UKLF as ACOS G1/G4. He assumed the appointment of Director General of Ordnance Services on promotion to Major General in July 1990.

He will be remembered as the epitome of an RAOC officer for the mid-1960s to early 90s generation of officers, NCOs and soldiers. He knew the logistic business from base to unit level and he helped to enhance and highlight the combat support of the Army, bringing it to the forefront of the minds of those he both led and served. His worth shone as he advanced amongst talented peers in the supply world and that became widely recognised in and beyond the RAOC. He brought all his knowledge to the forefront at the pinnacle of his career as he steered his Corps through the most challenging of times, both in terms of commitments and the resource and human cost of Options for Change, even as it faced amalgamation. He played a leading part in shaping the future shape of the Royal Logistic Corps and, two weeks before its formation, hosted Her Majesty The Queen’s final visit to the RAOC. In retirement, David Botting retired to Ford near Salisbury, devoting his time to veteran affairs for the Army Benevolent Fund, as a Colonel Commandant of The RLC and as Chairman of the RAOC Council. He displayed all the fortitude he had shown in his career in caring for his beloved Anne during a debilitating illness followed shortly by his own developing ill health in his final years.

The funeral of Major General David Francis Edmund Botting CB CBE took place in Salisbury on 27 April 2023 attended by his sons, Fred and Stewart and his sister Diana and a large gathering of family, friends and colleagues.

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ROLL OF HONOUR | THE SUSTAINER

Lest We Forget The RLC's invaluable contribution to Defence and national security over the last 30 years has come at a price. We mourn and remember those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice and commend the bravery of our gallantry medal recipients.

Operational Roll of Honour NORTHERN IRELAND - Cpl T Heffy (1993) Pte MA Edwards (1993) LCpl D Wilson (1994) LCpl RC Ford (1998) Cpl A Green (2001) Pte PT Wilkinson (2001) BOSNIA - Cpl PK Bottomley (1994) LCpl SJ Hunt (1995) Pte DJ Baird (1996) Pte SLT Jeans (1996) Pte MJ Symonds (1997) Pte SB Wilson (1997) Pte PJ McManus (1999)

WO2 GJ O’Donnell GM (2008) Capt DM Shepherd GM (2009) SSgt OSG Schmid GC (2009) Capt D Read (2010) SSgt BG Linley GM (2010) WO2 CH Wood (2010) Pte RA Wood (2011) Pte DA Hutchinson (2011) Capt LJ Head (2011) Pte RMC Silibaravi (2012) Cpl AS Roberts (2012) IRAQ - SSgt CD Muir (2003) Sgt JB Nightingale (2003) Pte KL Thompson (2007) Sgt MA Stansfield (2007)

CROATIA - LCpl A Claire (1997)

QATAR - LCpl SJ Holmes (2007)

AFGHANISTAN - Sgt RC Busuttil (2002) Pte AB Cutts (2006) Pte L Reeves (2006)

UNFICYP - Pte JL Sawyer (2015)

Gallantry Medal Recipients George Cross Capt PA Norton, SSgt KS Hughes, SSgt OSG Schmid Military Cross Maj ID Scattergood MBE, Capt SA Scott, Capt SD Bratcher, WO2 JL Palmer, SSgt GD Wood, LCpl DG Dickson Conspicuous Gallantry Cross SSgt JA Wadsworth George Medal Maj MJ Davis, Capt RA Baker, Capt JM Priestly, Capt KMD Ivison, Capt DM Shepherd, WO1 JRT Balding, WO1 NB Thomsen, WO1 AJ Modd, WO1 AO Peat, WO2 A Islam QGM, WO2 JKF Ley, SSgt MA Doyle, SSgt GJ O’Donnell, SSgt SW Dickson, SSgt BG Linley

Queen’s Gallantry Medal Lt Col M Gliniecki, Maj GJ Powell, Maj CTG Driver-Williams, Maj M Long, Capt JP Fidell, Capt WEJ Owers, Capt PG Smith, Capt CJ Henson, Capt AR Wallace, Capt TG Gould, Capt S Buchanan, Capt NG Joynes, Capt MJF Middleditch, Capt VM Strafford, Capt L Fitzgerald-Finch, WO1 RJ McLelland, WO1 EC Heakin, WO2 JA Slade, WO2 ME Quigley, WO2 N MacDonald, WO2 RA Wharton, WO2 M Worral, WO2 NO Hopkins, WO2 SA Rolls, WO2 AR Craddock, WO2 CRG Grant, WO2 A Lane, A/WO2 JG Lester, SSgt JJ Bell, SSgt SJ DeGruchy, SSgt CJ Hewett, SSgt AN Joy, SSgt AJ Nuttall, SSgt RE Bown, SSgt SA Parker, SSgt WE McFarland, Sgt DP Acarnley, Sgt KM Wright, Sgt MC Cunningham, Cpl RA Nealey, Cpl C Gilmour, LCpl W Cuckson, LCpl D Timmins

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THE SUSTAINER | LAST POST

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LAST POST Amey - On 20 March 2023, Mr C Amey R SIGNALS Arnold - On 16 April 2023, Lt Col FW Arnold RASC/RCT Astle - On 25 March 2023, Mr B Astle RAOC Botting - On 18 March 2023, Maj Gen DFE Botting CB CBE Late RAOC/RLC Braithwaite - In December 2022, Mr WKM Braithwaite RASC/RCT Brown - On 11 July 2023, Mr S Brown RCT Brown - On 3 April 2023, Mr D J Brown RAOC Burley - On 1 June 2023, Mr J Burley RAOC Burrell - On 8 April 2023, Mr E Burrell RAOC Byrne - On 22 June 2023, Mrs E Byrne Careless - On 7 June 2023, Mr DP Careless RAOC Chisholm - On 11 May 2023, Mr D Chisholm BEM RAOC Clark - On 19 February 2023, Mr J Clark RCT Cook - On 13 February 2023, Mr SJ Cook RCT Corbett - On 8 March 2023, IP G Corbett RASC/RAOC Corbett - On 8 March 2023, Mr G Corbett Inf/RASC/RAOC Daniel - On 22 October 2022, Lt Col RH Daniel RAOC Davies - On 18 June 2023, Mr RI Davies RAOC Dobson - On 31 May 2023, Mr K Dobson RAOC Eden - On 11 May 2023, Mr RT Eden RAOC Fussey - On 13 June 2023, Mr B Fussey RAOC Gibbs - On 5 March 2023, Mr K Gibbs RASC/RCT Goad - On 22 March 2023, Brig KJW Goad CBE Late RAOC Gray - On 4 May 2023, Lt Col RC Gray RAOC/RLC Hambleton - On 7 March 2023, Mrs D Hambleton Harker - On 28 May 2023, Mr A Harker RASC/RCT Hawley -On 4 July 2023, Mr P Hawley RCT Helmers - On 18 May 2023, Mr W Helmers RASC Hemmens - On 23 February 2023, Mr A Hemmens RASC Hughes - On 17 April 2023, Lt Col MC Hughes RASC/RCT Hummerston - On 29 May 2023, Mr D Hummerston RAOC Humphreys - On 10 June 2023, Mr SJ Humphreys RCT Hutton-Dunton - On 19 May 2023, Major DP Hutton-Dunton RCT Isherwood - On 1 March 2023, Maj MD Isherwood RASC/RCT Jackson - On 13 June 2023, Brig JA Jackson MBE GM Late RAOC Jones - On 16 January 2023, Mr KB Jones RAF Jones - On 14 June 2023, Sgt LL Jones RLC Kirby - On 16 January 2023, Mr D Kirby RASC

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Kirkwood - On 29 March 2023, Mr JR Kirkwood RCT/RLC Lathem - On 20 May 2023, Mr D Lathem RAOC Lawrence - On 15 March 2023, Mr JH Lawrence RASC Lawrence - On 28 May 2023, Mrs T Lawrence Lidlie - On 2 March 2023, Mr M Lidlie RAOC Mackenzie - On 28 January 2023, Mr VR Mackenzie RASC Macro - On 9 March 2023, Maj JA Macro RASC/RCT McCartney - On 11 April 2023, Lt Col MRU McCartney RASC/RCT/RLC Miller - On 24 January 2023, Mr FL Miller RASC Mitchell - On 3 June 2023, Maj P Mitchell MBE QGM RAOC/RLC Parkinson - On 12 January 2023, Capt EA Parkinson RASC Pascoe - On 21 September 2022, Mr G Pascoe RAOC Paton - On 25 February 2023, Mr J Paton RAOC Pike - On 11 April 2023, Mr SR Pike RASC/RCT Ponting - On 27 May 2023, Major KT Ponting REME/RCT/RLC Price - On 11 May 2023, Maj DG Price RAMC Price - On 18 June 2023, Mr RJ Price RCT Prowse - On 28 May 2023, Mr CT Prowse RASC/RCT Rankin - On 20 January 2023, Mr SS Rankin RCT Rawlings - On 14 March 2023, Lt Col KJ Rawlings MBE TD RAOC/RCT Reynolds - On 4 March 2023, Maj DHF Reynolds RAOC Riley - On19 April 2023, 2Lt H Riley RASC Rolfe - On 31 March 2023, Mr D Rolfe RASC Roycroft - On 4 July 2023, Brig MJ Roycroft Late RAOC/RLC Sargent - On 1 July 2023, Mr PN Sargent RAOC Saunders - On 5 July 2023, Mr M Saunders RASC/RCT Simister - On 19 May 2023, Mr K Simister RASC/RCT Spackman - On 9 March 2023, Brig JWC Spackman Late RAOC Stowers - On 24 Apr 2023, Mr AJ Stowers RAOC Turner - On 19 March 2023, Mr J Turner RASC/RCT Turner - On 30 November 2022, Mr D C Turner RAOC Vance - On 31 May 2023, Mr M Vance RAOC Walker - On 11 May 2023, Mr B Walker RAOC Ward - On 9 March 2023, Maj A Ward RAOC/RLC Webb - On 2 February 2023, Capt TA Webb RAOC Welsh - On 3 January 2023, Maj IM Welsh ACC/RCT Wilson - On 22 April 2023, Mr J Wilson RAOC Woollard - On 24 April 2023, Mr KD Woollard RAOC

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“ FOR ANYONE EVEN THINKING OF JOINING, DON’T HESITATE – IT’S ONE OF THE BEST DECISIONS I’VE MADE.”

As a serving soldier you often come across the Chelsea Pensioners. They get invited to the mess. Although they were in the Army 20 or 30 years before you, they’ve done the same things. It doesn’t change. You’re singing off the same hymn sheet. When you’ve been soldiers, you have this bond.

When my wife died, I thought, “What am I doing knocking around in a threebedroomed house? I don’t like this. I’ll apply to be a Chelsea Pensioner”. I came down on a small recce first, because I knew someone who was living there. That first night I went with him to the Pensioners’ club for a beer and as soon as I walked in the door I thought, “This is the place for me”. It took me back 30 years to the sergeants’ mess. In my berth at night, I sometimes think of how many generations of Chelsea Pensioners have been here in these buildings before me.

My four-day trial stay was brilliant. Everyone stops and talks to you. During my interview they said, “Aren’t you a bit young to come in here?”. I said, “I can live independently, I’m not married and I’m in receipt of a state pension, so I meet your criteria. And you need people like me to cheer up those old ones!”

WE ARE WELCOMING APPLICATIONS TO BECOME A CHELSEA PENSIONER. To find out more, contact our admissions team: 020 7881 5204 admissions@chelsea-pensioners.org.uk www.chelsea-pensioners.co.uk/become-chelseapensioner

For me, the best part is going out and representing the Royal Hospital. There’s nothing else to worry about. The hardest thing is choosing what to have for lunch!

For anyone even thinking of joining, don’t hesitate – it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made.

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