The Sustainer Summer 25

Sustainer THE

Corps Motto: We Sustain

Parade by Albert Elms

March: Lion, Sword and Crown by Craig Bywater

This edition of The Sustainer is the final one that will be circulated in print to the bulk of the serving Corps. From the winter 25 edition only the members of the RLC and Forming Corps Associations who are entitled to receive a hard copy, as part of their membership, will continue to do so. We will also continue to print copies for engagement and recruiting purposes.

The Sustainer will remain the Corps’ primary source for ‘in-depth’ news and articles, keeping you informed about what the wider Corps has been up to, and the central pillar of the Corps’ historical record.

This reduction in printing and distribution costs will help fund the RLC App. If you haven’t downloaded the RLC App, see pages 2 & 3 of this edition for more information.

As most readers know the digital version of The Sustainer can be accessed via links on the RLC App Pinboard and on the Home Page of the RLC Association website. For the best viewing and reading experience I encourage you to view it on a PC or tablet. Both the RLC web app and the RLC Association website can be viewed on MODNET devices.

Shifting the focus onto this edition, the theme was ‘new ways of working’. Several units embraced this and there are some very insightful and thought-provoking

EDITOR’S NOTE

articles on how operating methods and tactics are being adapted to meet the new operational challenges facing military logisticians and to drive efficiencies.

With sport forming a huge part of Corps and Army life and with it being central to the ‘offer’, this edition has 13 pages, covering individual sports, sports awards, competitions and events. And don’t forget that in the RLC App there are currently 57 groups you can join that cover most of the sporting and AT disciplines available to you. If a sport interests you join its group and get involved.

And finally, as the march into the digital age gathers pace, over the autumn we will be giving The Sustainer a makeover. Its current format and layout were not designed to be viewed as an online magazine so we will be making some changes to the page templates to make the viewer/reader experience more user friendly for PCs and mobile devices. This will inevitably mean fewer words and more images so please bare this in mind when submitting your articles. The next deadline for articles and unit reports is 6 Oct 25.

8 Peter Shakespeare

Email: Peter.Shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk

Contact: +44 (0) 7901 676309.

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

Editorial Staff

Editor: Peter Shakespeare

Editorial assistant: Anne Pullenkav

Email: anne.pullenkav@icloud.com

Graphic Design: David Blake

FORTHCOMING SUSTAINER COPY DEADLINES:

Winter –6 Oct 25, Spring –27 Feb 26, Summer –22 Jun 26

Change of Address: Serving members of the Corps who are due to move into or out of non-RLC appointments (eg E2) and other subscribers are requested to notify the Editor of their change of address. No information, no magazine!

Publisher: The Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps, RHQ The RLC, DCLPA Worthy Down, Winchester Hampshire. SO21 2RG.

Email: peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 7901 676309

Typesetting, Printing, Binding and Distribution: Holbrooks Printers Ltd, Norway Road, Hilsea, PORTSMOUTH, Hampshire PO3 5HX.

Data Privacy: We distribute The Sustainer using mailing data held in a secure contacts database within RHQ The RLC. Your inclusion on this database is by virtue of the fact you are serving in the military, or you are a current member of the RLC or Forming Corps

Associations. The Sustainer only uses your personal data for the purpose of sending you the magazine. The mailing data is treated in the strictest confidence, is password protected, is only shared with our printer and is deleted after each use. If any serving RLC personnel have concerns with regards to the storage and use of their personal data they should contact RHQ The RLC’s Data Protection Officer, Richard Stockman. Richard is Assistant Regimental Secretary and can be contacted at: Richard.Stockman256@mod.gov.uk

Photographs: The Editor accepts photographs for publication on the understanding that those submitting them have, where required by data protection legislation, obtained consent to publication from those depicted. Anyone who believes this is not the case or has a DPA related concern should contact the Editor. peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk

Advertising: While we do accept paid-for advertisements, space is very limited. 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: Pte Hom Gurung 15 Sqn QOGLR

The RLC APP – Connecting the Corps

Launched on 2 Jun 25, the RLC APP is a significant investment by the Corps designed to be the RLC information and virtual social hub, connecting every aspect of the Corps Family as never before.

Our challenge

The RLC is the largest and most diverse Corps in the British Army. Connecting our major units can rely on the Chain of Command. But with 40% of our regular officers and soldiers working in staff roles within Directorates, Formation HQs, in Stores Troops, as Chefs, ATOs, ATs, Drivers, Communicators, Photographers and Suppliers at First and Secondline, in units and establishments across the Army and wider Defence - and with our reservists spread across the UK - keeping our serving cohort in touch with their Corps Family, and each other, has always been a massive challenge. This challenge increases further when The RLC’s large veteran community and nearly 14,000 veterans in membership of The RLC’s Forming Corps associations are taken into consideration: not forgetting the all-important families of the above.

Why an App?

Simple really… 95% of the Corps Family have a smart phone or laptop computer. A mobile app and MODNET friendly web app gives you the ability to connect with your Corps, and with your colleagues and friends, so you can chat and keep in touch with everything that is going on and with everything that interests you. It also gives us –RHQ The RLC, your Heads of Trade, your Sports Clubs and Associations the Veterans’ Associations –the ability through the special interest groups in the RLC APP to bring all our communities together in one easily accessible place.

How does it work (What’s in it for me?)

When you join you automatically become a member of the ‘primary’ Royal Logistic Corps Group. This group will send you notifications of new content and Corps events. You can then request to join as many of the other groups that fit your particular areas of interest. The table below lists the current categories and groups. This list is not exhaustive, and more RLC Groups will be added as required or by popular demand.

**NOTE – The RLC APP is developed and provided by the Military App. The platform has been adopted by other regiments and corps in the British Army and the Military App has included App-user wide groups which may be of interest and benefit to the wider serving and veteran military community. The Military App also provides a range of user support information which can be accessed in the app or from the Military App website: https://www.militaryapp.org/ login/app-support?regiment=rlc

IMPORTANT – The RLC APP is not an official MOD platform. Under no circumstances should it be used to post content that is classified OFFICIAL or above. Any news or events that refer to classified information should include a ‘more information’ link so serving personnel can see the

OFFICIAL information via MODNET Sharepoint from the web app, if using a MODNET device, or via Defence Connect if using a personal device.

How to I join?

The mobile RLC App is free to download for Apple and Android personal devices from the App Store and on Google Play. There is also a web apphttps://www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk/ web-app/ - which is approved for use on MODNET laptops and mobile devices.

NOTE: If you have downloaded and registered with the mobile app, you can use the same username and password to access the web app.

Whether you are downloading the mobile app or wanting to access the web app, you need to register. You also require the RLC APP Group Code (THIS IS CASE SENSITIVE) to complete the registration process. If you don’t have the code, you can ask your Chain of Command for it, or your Sports club or Society, your Veterans’ Association or you can request it at registration by submitting your name, corps, service type (regular, reserve, veteran, etc) and email address via the app’s online verification form. If accepted, you will be emailed the RLC Group Code. Once you have the code, by whichever means, you enter it and your email address, and you will be sent a 6digit verification code. Once you have entered it you can then complete the registration process.

How do I make the most of The RLC APP?

The key to getting the most from the RLC APP is to join all the groups that are relevant to you engage with other members and contribute to them.

Here is an example: You are a Corporal serving as a Logistic Specialist (Supply) in the RLC 1LO team attached to the Royal WELCH. You are an aspiring RLC corps footballer, you are a keen runner, and you want to learn to sail. You are married and deploy a lot with the Battalion.

How can the RLC APP help you?

Firstly, you must join your trade group, which should have information from your Head of Trade about developments and opportunities within your trade. You can connect with other people you know in your trade and chat and share experiences. You should join the RLC Football group, the RLC Athletics group and the RLC Sailing group to keep in touch with what’s happening and join in on the chats. You canconnect to the JNCO’s group for some banter. Get your wife to sign up as well and join the RLC Partners and Families Group. As the Royal WELCH is also signed up to the Military App platform, you can ask for its Regimental App code and you and your wife can access

its app from within the RLC APP. You and your wife can keep up with what the Battalion is doing, and your wife can join its family’s group for the times when you are away. And finally, you should use the RLC APP to read the Sustainer to get all the latest detailed information about what the RLC and its units and people have been up to over the last four months, including careers information from APC, exercise, operational and sports reports and a whole lot more.

The RLC APP’s success is in your hands!

As we mentioned at the top of this article, the Corps has made the investment to provide you with this excellent communication and information platform. It has something for everyone, the ability to grow to meet your needs and the potential to truly unite The RLC family; providing everyone who is part of it with support, comradery, information and fraternity.

Learn more here: https://www.royallogisticcorps.co.uk/ community/about-the-rlc-app/ For technical support email: help@militaryapp.org

For any RLC related questions email: app@royallogisticcorps.co.uk

Download the RLC APP for mobile today

‘‘There is a real respect for the professional skills of our people. This might not be apparent to all of you, all the time, but when I visit the units and formations we support, they are always quick to point out what force multipliers you are

THE COLONEL RLC'sPERSPECTIVE

A year into the role, and with a new Corps SM by my side, I thought it was worth reflecting on a year in post and providing a look forward for the exciting and undoubtedly busy twelve months ahead.

When I look at this past year, my first thought is “where did the year go?” It has undoubtedly been the fastest of my Army career, reflecting the pace at which the Corps and the Army is moving, and the complexity of the tasks we face. The diversity of both our people, and what we are being asked to do is simply phenomenal, and I am impressed daily by everything I see.

There is a real respect for the professional skills of our people. This might not be apparent to all of you, all the time, but when I visit the units and formations we support, they are always quick to point out what force multipliers you are. Of course, it is nice to receive compliments, but I routinely remind people that it should not be a surprise that well trained and well-motivated people, who know their trade, add greatly to any situation. Keep being humble and keep being brilliant in all you do.

There is a sense of Corps family when it matters. Routine business is rightly conducted at unit level, but when the Corps comes together for events such as the Festival of Sport and Exercise NORTHERN STRIKE, we do it as a whole Corps family, and this allows us to deliver a coherent logistic effect on operations and exercises when it really matters. We must continue to capitalise on the unique opportunities that a Corps as large and diverse as ours has to offer, to incorporate the talents of our people at work and at play, and we must continue to work hard to

include all of those who might sometimes feel on the peripheries of the Corps too.

One of the major challenges the Corps faces is that of workforce. I have most recently had the pleasure of meeting sixty-nine outstanding new junior soldier entrants from AFC(H), and to be the inspecting officer on a passing out parade at ATR(P) too. And on 8 August, I had the pleasure of welcoming our newest intake of twenty-four Second Lieutenants into the RLC. To see all these young people, full of anticipation, and with the whole world at their feet is a true privilege; within their ranks sit future Regimental Sergeant Majors, Commanding Officers and Heads of Trade, and everyone in the Corps must do all they can to capitalise on this enthusiasm and help deliver on the promise of a fulfilling, challenging and exciting career choice. But we need more people just like these to join our ranks, and I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to be advocates for the Corps and to encourage others to become part of the RLC family.

So to the future. With the newly released RLC strategy as a handrail, and the new and improved methods of communication to assist us, we must cohere our efforts to ensure we are ready to win on operations now. We must train to become ever more resilient and integrated, and to maximise what we have to be the most effective war fighters we can. Every one of us has a part to play in this effort.

Once again, I would like to thank you all for everything you do for the Corps, and I wish you a safe latter half of the year.

Colonel J S Powell ADC

8

New Corps SM Reserves appointed

WO1 Andy Lock has taken over as the Corps Sergeant Major Reserves. He enlisted into 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC (formerly RCT) as a Driver in 1998.

Completing basic training at PWoG Barracks, Grantham and subsequent trade training, he was a proficient DROPS operator, and deployed on numerous squadron and regimental exercises across the UK and overseas.

In 2003, he mobilised on Op Telic 2 with 27 Theatre Logistic Regiment as a Section Commander and latterly Ops Senior, sustaining vital supplies from Shiaba Log-Base across the AO. In 2010 he mobilised on Herrick 13 with 13 Air Assault Support Regiment as the Fleet Manager, maintaining 200+ platforms, at full readiness to transport vital supplies across the British AO.

In 2021 WO1 Lock assumed the 157 Regt WO1 Reserve role, reintroducing the CO’s Sword Competition post Covid. A task that demanded high standards of planning, co-ordination and execution for this coveted event.

As the Drum Major of 157

Regiment Corps of Drums, he has performed across the UK, including at several high-profile members of the Royal Family.

A keen skier he has represented 157 Regt at several Ski RLC, Alpine competitions in Germany and Austria.

WO1 Lock says: “I’m absolutely honoured to take up this role, and I am passionate about supporting our RLC Reservists, working in partnership with our Corps Sergeant Major and the wider RHQ.”

In May members of 132 Aviation Support Squadron RLC, joined a group from 7 Battalion, REME to represent the Unit at the International Military Pilgrimage (Pèlerinage Militaire International, PMI) held in Lourdes, France. The three-day event that brought together over 15,000 military personnel from more than 41 countries, uniting in a spirit of peace, faith, remembrance, and camaraderie.

The King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 – Military Division

The Royal Logistic Corps congratulates the following Officers, Warrant Officers, SNCOs and JNCOs on their awards and commendations in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 – Military Division.

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire

OBE

Col PA Allen - late RLC

Capt (Retd) S Steel

MBE

Lt Col KK Bingham VR

WO1 A Johnston

Lt Col B Sunil Kara

Maj MJ Murphy

WO1 CPJG Sinclair

Col (Retd) N Gilbert - late RCT/RLC

King’s Volunteer Reserves Medal

WO2 JC McMillen VR

King’s Commendation for Valuable Service

Lt Col MC Long QGM

Meritorious Service Medal

WO1 RM Collins

WO1 UAT Hill

WO1 M Hunter

WO1 DJW Lutunatabua

WO2 C Macneill

CGS Commendation

SSgt M Ben-Moussa

Maj JJ Cameron

Capt JDJA Cooke

Cpl SA Garrity

A/Maj GT Harvey

Maj JJ Hill

Sgt CF Preece

Capt OS Rogers

CFA Commendation

WO2 TS Jacobs

Sgt CL Watson

Comd SJC Commendation

Lt Col DL Aspin

WO1 IF Bigger

WO2 AD Bishop

Capt DWC Knott

A/Maj CM Smith

Capt CD Venn

COMARRC Commendation

Maj RAC Gibbs

Maj RS Lambert

SSgt RR Spaull

Editor’s note: In the New Year’s Honours List 2025 Military Division reported on page-2 of the spring 2025 edition of The Sustainer, we listed the award bestowed upon Major General GG Ewart-Brookes CB incorrectly by prefixing his name with the incorrect rank. General please accept our sincere apologies.

‘‘My commitment is clear: to champion our people and ensure we continue to deliver the world-class logistic support for which The RLC is renowned

It is an immense privilege to be appointed as the Corps Sergeant Major of The Royal Logistic Corps. I step into this role with humility, pride, and a deep sense of responsibility to represent every soldier and officer who wears our cap badge. My commitment is clear: to champion our people and ensure we continue to deliver the world-class logistic support for which The RLC is renowned.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the honour of serving alongside some of the most professional, resilient, and adaptable individuals in the British Army. From my earliest days at Phase 1 training, through operational deployments, and into regimental appointments across the UK and overseas… I’ve seen what makes our Corps exceptional. It’s not just our capability or our equipment. It’s our people. Across all trades, each of you plays a vital role in sustaining the fight. Without your dedication, nothing moves.

That’s why one of my top priorities as Corps SM is to be your voice at the highest levels. I will work closely with the Corps Colonel and senior leaders to address the issues that matter most –whether that’s improving welfare, enhancing career opportunities, or ensuring training is fit for purpose. But I can only represent you effectively if I hear from you directly. I’ll be visiting units across the Corps, speaking with soldiers at all ranks, and I want to hear your experiences, concerns, and ideas.

This year marks an important milestone for The RLC with the launch of our new Corps Strategy. This is more than a leadership plan –it’s a shared vision for our future. It outlines how we will look after our people, develop our skills, modernise our capabilities, and build upon our civilian partnerships, to remain at the forefront of military logistics. I encourage every member of the Corps to read it and reflect on how it applies to you. Whether you’re a

FROM THE RANKS

junior soldier or a SNCO, you have a role in bringing that strategy to life.

To support this, we’ve also launched the RLC App –a new tool that connects us like never before. It puts Corps news, events, career information, and resources in your pocket, wherever you’re serving. It’s also a platform for sharing achievements, lessons learned, and good ideas. I urge you to download it and make use of it –it’s one of the simplest ways to stay informed and engaged with our wider Corps family.

While change and innovation drive us forward, our strength lies in the people who make up The RLC. Whether in barracks, on exercise, or on operations, it’s our shared commitment to each other that defines us. Leadership at every level must inspire –not just through professional excellence, but through genuine care, humility, and the courage to listen. We move forward together, grounded in trust, teamwork, and a deep respect for the role each of us plays.

Finally, I’d like to congratulate the newly appointed Corps SM Reserves, WO1 Andrew Lock, on taking up this important role. The Regular and Reserve components are two sides of the same coin, and together we form a stronger, more capable Corps. I look forward to working closely with him to ensure the voice of our Reserve soldiers is heard and valued at every level.

I also want to thank my predecessor, WO1 (Comd SM) S Muir, for his outstanding service to the Corps. He leaves behind a strong legacy that I am determined to build upon.

I am proud to serve as your Corps Sergeant Major and excited about the journey ahead. Together, we will uphold our traditions, embrace new opportunities, and continue to deliver the exceptional logistic support that defines us. We Sustain.

WO1 W E Marquis Corps Sergeant Major RLC

Former RLC Chef is the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chiefs of Staff Committee (SEAC)

WO1 (SEAC) Sarah Cox took over as the third SEAC in April 2025. She began her Army career within the Army Cadet Force and joined the British Army at 16 as an Apprentice Chef. Following her apprentice training, her career consisted of catering roles and appointments. Operational tours in Sierra Leone, Iraq, Bosnia and UN Cyprus followed as well as instructional postings at both trade and military training. She has also held command and leadership appointments in the People space.

The SEAC role provides an independent and focused source of advice to Government Ministers, the Chief of the Defence Staff and the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COS) as required within the Whole Force Concept, particularly on personnel matters. WO1 Cox provides advice, assessment, recommendations and feedback to the Chief of Defence People and the COS Committee on standards, professional development, education, training, pay, promotions, quality of life, and

health of the Armed Forces and other areas which affect the total force construct and accompanies them on their visits when required. Another key part of the role is to represent the UK Armed Forces interests at various international senior enlisted conferences/seminars through national strategic level engagement, building partnerships with other nations and international allies.

Commenting on her appointment, WO1 Cox said: “It is a real privilege

Aye! We were there

Maj Mark Catherwood RLC has written a sonnet about The RLC’s Waterloo Battle Honour

Eight Companies of ‘Wagoneers’, For our forces, did we sustain, And did ye not remember when, The Coldstreams' flank did wane? At Hougoumont, the Guards did stand, ‘Til supply and shot had dwindled, And ‘twas it not by Pte Brewer, Their hope and fight rekindled? He drove his train, through Hellish fire

To break the French's line. So when 'Bony' threw his forces here, They faltered every time.

Aye, The Royal Wagon Train were there at Waterloo, ‘Tis why for our forebears, this Battle Honour flew.

to be appointed as the SEAC for the UK Armed Forces. Never did this 16-year-old Chef ever think that they would be the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chiefs within Defence. I must thank the Corps for the opportunities and support it has shown me over my career… The RLC will always be my Army family.”

Chabeel Day A Moment of Reflection, Service and Solidarity

On 2 Jul 25, Sgt Pardeep Kaur MBE organised an event to mark Chabeel Day at the Defence School of Logistics and Administration (DSLA) at Worthy Down, on behalf of the Defence Sikh Network (DSN). Chabeel Day marks the martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji –the fifth Guru of the Sikh faith and the first Sikh martyr.

Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred in 1606 for standing up for truth, justice, and freedom of belief. In honour of his sacrifice, Sikhs across the world observe this occasion by serving Chabeel – a sweet, chilled drink to others as a gesture of humility, compassion, and unity.

The event at the DSLA brought together service personnel and staff to reflect on this significant moment

in Sikh history. Chabeel was offered to everyone on camp, fostering meaningful conversations and shared understanding of Sikh values such as seva (selfless service), equality, and resilience.

Commenting on the day, Sgt Kaur said: “Organising Chabeel Day was a chance to honour Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s legacy in a way that brings people together. It’s a reminder that

kindness and courage go hand in hand, and that we can uphold those values every day through small but powerful acts of service. Events like this help foster inclusivity and interfaith awareness across Defence. The Defence Sikh Network continues to champion opportunities that bring communities closer through education, remembrance, and shared values.”

The new RLC Strategy outlines the Royal Logistic Corps’ vision, purpose and plan for achieving operational excellence by 2030. By embracing innovation, modernising capabilities, developing our people, and fostering partnerships, The RLC will position itself as the cornerstone of Defence’s ability to succeed in contested, multi-domain environments. With a focus on readiness, integration, and maximising fighting power, the RLC will ensure the British Army’s logistic advantage in future conflicts.

Foreword by The Master General of Logistics

Officers and Soldiers of the Royal Logistic Corps family,

Launched on 2 July 2025, the RLC Strategy aims to set the conditions for us to become match fit, training and preparing our people mentally, physically and administratively for the demands of today and tomorrow's fight. It provides the handrail for all Corps activity focussed on achieving this vital end state.

Success will be judged on our ability to work as one. In these testing times - where the challenges we face are vast, and the resources at times scarce - progress will only be achieved if we can cohere our efforts and put the weight of the whole organisation behind the nominated Line of Operation Owners. If we do so, we'll reinforce our reputation as a whole-force Corps of first choice to support the Army's warfightershome and aboard.

To do that, this strategy is for all: Regular and Reserve, Serving and Veteran. It is designed to guide our leadership and assure our decision making so that we better align the Corps’ finances and energy to our most valuable and valued outputs. You must hold us to account if we aren't doing so.

The RLC Strategy for 2030

I would be grateful if everyone across the whole Corps Family can take time to read it and understand their role in the plan to make us better able to survive the fight and fight to survive.

Major General JEA Chestnutt CBE

8 The RLC Strategy for 2030 has a clear vision and core purpose

Introduction

The Royal Logistic Corps must remain agile, responsive, and resilient in the face of a rapidly changing strategic landscape. Global instability, technological disruption, and the complexities of modern warfare demand that The RLC evolves to maintain its critical role in supporting Defence’s operational objectives.

As the Army’s largest Corps, The RLC is at the heart of sustaining combat power. By integrating cutting-edge technology, developing highly skilled personnel, and enhancing partnerships, we will ensure the Corps is ready to meet any challenge - from large-scale, high-intensity conflict to

humanitarian support. Our focus is getting our people ready for warfighting across the components of fighting power contributing to a credible warfighting capability and the CGS’s targets of doubling lethality by 2027 and tripling by 2030.

This strategy provides a roadmap to ensure The RLC delivers worldclass logistic support, strengthening our proud heritage while adapting to future demands.

Situational Context

The Defence environment is becoming increasingly complex and contested, defined by global instability, hybrid threats, and the integration of multiple operational domains. State and non-state actors are exploiting grey-zone tactics, cyber warfare, and disruptive technologies to challenge traditional military superiority. Concurrently, Defence faces resource pressures that demand greater efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in delivering operational capabilities. As the Army’s largest Corps, The RLC must adapt to this rapidly evolving landscape to remain a critical enabler of the Army’s ability to mobilise, sustain, and succeed in high-intensity conflict.

Amid these challenges lie significant opportunities for The RLC

to strengthen its position as a battle-winning force. By harnessing emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics, the Corps will work together with industry to revolutionise supply chain

8 The RLC Executive Committee will implement robust mechanisms to monitor and evaluate progress, including a Quarterly Review and conduct an annual strategy audit to refine goals in response to evolving Defence priorities

management and improve operational agility, supporting the UK growth agenda. Strengthening partnerships with NATO allies, industry leaders, and academic institutions will foster innovation and ensure interoperability in multinational operations. Building on its proud heritage, ethos and professional excellence, The RLC is uniquely positioned to deliver decisive logistic support across the full spectrum of operations, from warfighting to humanitarian assistance, ensuring the Army’s competitive edge in future conflicts.

DOWNLOAD THE RLC STRATEGY FOR 2030 TODAY

8 ‘Our People’ is one of the Strategy’s four Lines of Operation and like ‘Our Skills’, ‘Our Capabilities’ and ‘Our Partnerships’ has its own distinct lead and set of Enabling Objectives

Public Duties Reinforcement Company

In April 2025, soldiers from 15 Air Assault Support Squadron QOGLR, 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC were given the opportunity to deploy on ceremonial duties in London as the Public Duties Reinforcement Company (PDRC). For most units, the training follows a familiar structure - four weeks of basic drill practice, followed by a twoweek Short-Term Training Team (STTT) package at Woolwich’s Royal Artillery Barracks, before achieving Fit for Role status. However, for 15 Sqn, this process was anything but typical.

Having just returned from a previous commitment, the Sqn had only two weeks before transitioning directly into the STTT. Thanks to an exceptional training plan delivered by the Sqn operations team, in particular the SSM, and the unwavering dedication of all ranks, The Sqn arrived at the STTT confident and well-prepared. The Sqn’s performance impressed the instructors from the outset.

After two intensive weeks with the training team from No 7 Company Coldstream Guards, who did a fantastic job, the Sqn successfully mounted its first King’s

Guard on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace. The next parade was a landmark. The newly introduced Sunday Parade, saw the Sqn march the Colour from Buckingham Palace to St James’s Palace. We were proud to be the first PDRC to conduct this historic new ceremonial duty.

Not long into the deployment, the Sqn was honoured to participate in the VE80 celebrations. The detachment at Buckingham Palace, led by a Guard’s Subaltern,

performed alongside three military bands in a royal salute to Their Majesties The King and Queen during their arrival and after the flypast. It was a moment of immense pride for this QOGLR satellite sub-unit to represent the RLC and Brigade of Gurkhas in such a prestigious national event.

Windsor Castle Guard

Beyond central London, 15 Sqn was also tasked with guarding Windsor Castle. A place of immense historical significance and architectural beauty, Windsor draws visitors from across the globe, especially during the vibrant summer months. Tourists come not only to admire the site’s grandeur but also to pay their respects at the final resting places of Queen Elizabeth II and King Henry VII. Each morning, the detachment marched through the streets of Windsor and into the castle; a powerful and unforgettable experience for anyone involved. With members of the Royal Family frequently in residence, sentries must remain highly alert, offering correct compliments and always maintaining ceremonial discipline. The Captain of the Guard was

8 Change of Guards - Tower of London

fortunate enough to attend the Easter Matins service with the Royal Family and during the postservice reception, met several members, including His Majesty The King. He said without a doubt, it was one of the most surreal and memorable experiences of his life.

Windsor Castle is also home to the thirteen Military Knights. They are retired service personnel selected to reside within the castle and perform ceremonial duties. As a gesture of gratitude and to foster intergenerational bonds, the Sqn invited the Knights and their partners for an evening of traditional Nepalese food and

entertainment. The event was a great success, filled with warmth, shared stories, and mutual respect. It’s hoped that future PDRCs will continue this tradition to strengthen the relationship between those serving now and those who have gone before.

HM Tower of London Guard

The duties extended further, as 15 Sqn also assumed responsibility for the detachment and Captain of the Guard at the Tower of London - one of the most historically symbolic postings in the British Army. Charged with upholding centuries of tradition while executing modern ceremonial responsibilities, the role demanded a careful blend of heritage, leadership, and precision.

The Captain of the Guard oversees

several key ceremonies. The daily Opening Ceremony, performed before public admission, involves the formal unlocking of the Tower gates. The Ceremony of the Word sees the Chief Yeoman Warder issue the daily password to the Captain of the Guard - part of the Tower’s historic secure operations.

Most renowned of all is the Ceremony of the Keys, a ritual that has taken place every night for over 700 years. Precisely at 21:52, the Chief Yeoman Warder presents the keys to the sentry, symbolising the official locking of the Tower. This sacred ceremony is a living piece of history - steeped in continuity and protected by the professionalism of the soldiers who carry it out. Being part of this tradition is an enduring honour and a privilege none of us will forget.

The deployment on PDRC was more than a ceremonial task - it was a chance to represent the Corps and Brigade of Gurkhas at the highest level, uphold national traditions, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether on parade at Buckingham Palace, marching through Windsor, or standing watch at the Tower of London, 15 Sqn demonstrated the pride, discipline, and professionalism that define its Regiment and the Corps.

8 Capt of the Guard (Capt Sudip Gurung) leads the contingent for the Word ceremony - Tower of London

8 Soldiers from 15 Sqn smile as they pass the Fit for Role inspection prior to Public Duties - Wellington Bks, London

8 A soldier from 15 Sqn leads the march after completing their first guard mount alongside the Grenadier Guards in front of the Long Walk at Windsor Castle

YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL

RLC Soldiers

SO1 – Lt Col Mark Lambert

SO2 – Maj Nicky Hemsworth

WO1 – WO1 Sonya Jaffe

Trade Career Managers:

AT – Capt Craig Lynch

QOGLR - Capt Pawan Sherchan

Dvr/Dual trade – Mrs Catherine Brown

LSS/Systems Analyst – Mrs Jackie Dynes

Mov Con/PCS/Photographer/Chefs / Wet Trades –

Ms Carolyn Murray

Terms of Service/Co-ord – Mrs Charmaine Lawn

SO1 RLC Soldiers – Lt Col Mark Lambert

A period of change within the RLC Soldier Branch has seen us say farewell to WO1 Wayne Marquis to take up the role of Corps Sergeant Major and welcome WO1 Sonya Jaffe to Glasgow. Bringing a wealth of experience to the role WO1 Jaffe takes the lead for RSM, SSM, Instructor and Recruiter assignments and management for SP when in these roles. We also say farewell to Capt Steve Edwardes-Kennedy who single handedly dragged our Defence Connect page into the 21st Century and leaves us to return to the world of ATOs. In his place we welcome Capt Craig Lynch to be the new lead for all ATs.

The pace of life remains fast in the branch with promotion and appointment boarding being the focal areas as we work through the scale that the Junior Ranks bring. As hundreds of RLC personnel consider future assignments, it is key to understand the importance of the ePPP. This document tells the board what roles you would like to be considered for and why you are the right fit for the job. It is the only document written by you that the board sees and uses in its decision making. Use it wisely! If you are not sure how to use it then attend the RLC CM Portal Brief the day after all promotion board results are released. It is also

linked on our OneNote and Defence Connect pages. All personnel are reminded that their first port of call on career advice is their RCMO; early engagement is always the best option. They know how and when to raise issues further, making sure the right information is available to decision makers. Direct engagement by personnel with APC often delays decision making.

Instructor aspirations – Important information for Service Personnel

Service Personnel (SP) aspiring to become instructors at Phase 1 or Phase 2 training establishments and fill those key roles to help shape and mentor the next generation of soldiers, should engage with their 1RO at the earliest opportunity.

Key Information:

The instructor selection process

If selected with an asterisk (*), you will be considered for the Instructor Appointing Board. This includes review by your Cap Badge Employment Group (CEG) Board. Please note: the Instructor Board will convene prior to the CEG Board.

Training Establishment assignments

Myth busting: SP assigned to training establishments do not receive an additional half-point that was historically awarded for this appointment. Boards consider performance and potential equally across all roles.

DBS checks

All SP selected for instructor appointments will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

RLC representation at RMAS

There are currently no RLC soldier instructors at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS), a gap we are keen to address. RLC personnel are strongly encouraged to consider this opportunity.

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/

RLC Recruiter process and opportunities

Army Career Centres (ACCs):

Provide tailored advice to potential recruits and support Corps-specific recruitment.

Corps Engagement Team (CET):

Based at RHQ The RLC, Worthy Down Camp. They promote RLC careers through school visits, college outreach, and national events.

Outreach Teams (OTs):

Engage directly with target recruiting populations to generate interest and convert it into enlistments.

RMAS specific courses to be aware of:

Sandhurst Instructor Development Cadre (hosted by 85 (Herring) Sqn RLC): LCpl – Sgt

SIAC BC (Sandhurst Instructor Aptitude Course Briefing Course): Sgt – SSgt (to assess suitability and gain and understanding of the main course)

SIAC/PTA (Sandhurst Instructor Aptitude Course / Potential Trainer Assessment): Sgt – SSgt

All Instructor Pathways:

Look at Life & Pre-Employment Training (PET) (hosted by 85 (Herring) Sqn RLC): Pte – Cpl

Instructor expression of interest QR code:

Expression of Interest:

Open to UKTAP from OR1–OR4 across all RLC trades. Interested personnel should express their interest via their Chain of Command. With Line Manager support, potential recruiters should register for a Recruiter Insight Day or a Recruiter Assessment Event. QR code below:

Formal Career Plans (FCPs)

FCPs are now delivered via the My Career App and will be initiated by career managers (CMs). Personnel who are due to receive an FCP (either 16-year point or promotion to Sgt) need to either accept or decline their FCPs on My Career App before the CMs can prepare/deliver the FCP.

Stay Connected with Defence Connect

For the latest updates on promotion and appointment boards, as well as upcoming unit visits, make sure to regularly check out the Defence Connect page. It is your go-to resource for key dates and essential information. Just search for CM RLC Soldiers.

If you are serving in the Royal Logistic Corps Reserves, and can afford or make the time, there is a wealth of opportunities to deploy in support of Defence and the Regular Army. While not everyone will get to command an operation in an iconic part of the world, there are some great opportunities and roles overseas that need filling at every level. This is my story.

I am a reservist. In February 2024 I was forwarded a trawl for a position as Commander Op PENSACOLA. It looked interesting and following a discussion with my wife my bags were packed and two weeks later I was at MRTC. The experience has been fantastic, I had a huge learning curve, but the staff support I received was excellent, along with the feeling of doing something really productive.

OP PENSACOLA is the Land Operational Command’s (LOC) Operation in the Western Balkans Region (WBR). It was set up following direction from the Secretary of State for Defence in 2019 and it deployed in July 2021. It has a remit to cohere and support UK Land training activity in order to deliver greater effect in the region working through and with the Deployed Network already in situ.

I led a small team of staff officers who would coordinate Short Term Training Teams (STTT) to deploy to the region in cooperation with the Defence Attaché and their staff to provide training in accordance with certain parameters often with the objective to increase the local military capability in support of achieving NATO goals. The

Op PENSACOLA

The Western Balkans Land Regional Coordination Cell

By Lt Col Chris Butterworth

countries within the remit are, North Macedonia (MKD), Kosovo (KOS), Albania (ALB), Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Montenegro (MNE) and Serbia (SER). I was lucky to have an excellent team that consisted of Maj Ben Denchai RTR who was replaced by Maj Chris Kelk RIFLES in June and Maj Stuart Sullivan QARANC who was replaced by Maj Stephen Probst SCOTS DG in July. Majs Denchai and Kelk fulfilled the SO3 role based

in Sarajevo while Maj’s Sullivan and Probst fulfilled the SO2 role based in Skopje with the SO1.

The SO2 is allocated KOS, MKD and ALB while the SO3 covered BiH, MNE and SER. I as the SO1 covered the regional remit and tied all the activity together. This gave me excellent opportunities to travel and enhance relationships with the Deployed Network as well as our allies in the area and the Host Nations. During this period the staff enabled STTTs providing such training as Close Quarter Battle, Recce, Sniper Training, Women in Peace and Security and C2 CSS. The period of my deployment also coincided with Op CHELONIA that included EX AUSTERE WOLF and OPREH the Strategic Reserve Force (SRF) of 2 YORKS deployment into

8 Vehicles unloading in Pashaliman, South Albania as part of EX AUSTERE WOLF by members of 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC and 165 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC

8 1 Royal Anglian Sniper Platoon training BiH forces. A panoramic sketching lesson

ANGLIAN

KOS in support of ELGIN (K). As my post before this deployment was as 2IC, 165 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC I was particularly interested in EX AW as it saw the deployment of soldiers I have regularly worked with on their ACT. EX AUSTERE WOLF was a 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade deployment that landed an entire Theatre Enablement Group (TEG) in austere conditions across a beach into Pashaliman a former Soviet naval base in Southern Albania. 17 Port and Maritime Regt RLC commanded by Lt Col Terry Wilcox formed the TEG and included all the trades and specialists required to make the deployment possible. The equipment was transported from the UK on the Ro-Ro Hartland Point and from there it was ferried to the beach via Mexeflote. The exercise pushed many soldiers outside their comfort zones and there were many challenges, all of which they overcame leading to a very successful exercise. More detail of this deployment can be found on the Army webpage at: https://www.army.mod.uk/news/ex ercise-austere-wolf-pashalimannaval-base-southern-albania

Although Op PENSACOLA is primarily concerned with increasing the capabilities of our Allies’ militaries, being one of very few British military staff based in the region did lead to some other fantastic experiences, from representing the British Military at a Bulgarian WW1 Remembrance service (where we were their adversaries); attending diplomatic events such as the King’s Birthday Party and Kosovo Partners’ Conference and a Veterans visit and ceremony to commemorate 25 years since our involvement in the NATO intervention. This all lead to a very busy tour made enjoyable by how welcoming I found all the locals to be. I hugely recommend the West Balkans to anyone planning adventurous training (make sure you check with the Defence Attaches first!) as on my weekends off I had some great experiences from horse riding to hiking in pristine national parks. I also managed to complete the Skopje half marathon and to win a regional veterans’ fencing competition. The WBR is also ideal

for cultural visits with many Roman and Ottoman ruins, fantastic cities and lots of scope for Battlefield Studies: the first of which to take place studying the 1999 intervention in Kosovo wasorganised by the Integrated Warfare Centre during my tour.

8 165 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC troops on EX AUSTERE WOLF in Albania. L to R: Sgt Steve Malpass, Lt Col Chris Butterworth, Cpl Shannon Hopkins, Sgt David Tremaine

Commanding Op PENSACOLA has been a great experience, made all the better for seeing what good we can achieve supporting our Allies. The STTTs we have received from units from all over the Army have been excellent and the soldiers hugely professional. The esteem that the host nations hold you all in is a credit to you and your units. The feedback I have received from the STTT staff is that deploying on these tasking is also one of the most fulfilling things they have done in their careers. All the STTT staff have stated they would come back and do it again if given the chance. I recommend to all commanders. If you get opportunity to send troops on a STTT to the WBR, take it. Your soldiers will benefit from the experience and come back reinvigorated knowing they have done a good job and have been well appreciated.

8 Mexeflote construction in South Albania from the side of Hartland Point

Defence School of Logistics and Administration

Comdt: Gp Capt Rachel Mawdsley OBE RAF

85 Squadron

It has been a busy start to the training year, with 204 Students completing their ALDP MT with the Sqn since Easter and the same pace expected through the remainder of the training year. Add to this the support to the OSPREY Holdover training program that is currently being led by SSgt Ben Harper and his dedicated team (Sgts Lucy Blair, Emily Boffy and Kris Naden); the team has done well to also manage to fit in remodelling the RLC Potential Trainer Assessment, based on feedback from the previous courses.

Whilst the teams have been busy, continuous improvement has not been left by the wayside. Without spoiling the advancements too much for future students: the Sgt’s ALDP teams have refined their MS delivery within courses to allow for more time for students to gain the understanding they need before becoming a 1RO. The Juniors’ ALDP team has been looking at the time spent on the orders process and how the uptake can be maximised for students. They have also been refining the BCS phase of both courses to increase the training benefit, interest and realism of the courses.

LSTW HQ

LSTW HQ has welcomed a new Sub-Unit.The new and fourth addition to the Wing is the Air Command Training Squadron (ACTS) which delivers RAF Officer Logistics Training and Joint Contracts Awareness Training amongst others; as well as the Defence Logistics Staff Course (DLSC) in partnership with the University of Lincoln.We must also bid a very sad goodbye to Maj Richie Walker, who has had a huge impact on the Wing as the Chief of Staff.

DMTS

Throughout the spring, the Defence Movements Training Squadron’s (DMTS) main effort was to deliver 184 course instances to 1,538 trainees with no signs of a reduction any time soon due to an increasing training demand in 25/26.

Despite the Sqn’s jampacked FOE, a highly motivated AD Team took the initiative to use alternative training areas to improve training delivery by conducting the Rail Loading Supervisor practical training at Bovington Training Area in March. Despite the logistical challenges of getting Mov Con trainees to Bovington, the practical training added realism and prevented any training deficiencies so was worth the effort overall.

DMTS also celebrated the achievements and talents of the AD Team. They won the Defence School of Logistics and Administration Outstanding Team Performance Award for their excellent teamwork, innovative training, and exceptional resourcefulness. Additionally, Sgt Rainford’s tireless output and creative approach to training efficiencies alongside his significant contribution to the wider service, especially his charity work raising £1,500 for the Combat Stress, was recognised by a 1* commendation from the Comd DCSp.

8 A Section Commander briefs prior to an assault

8 Students take up position in defence

Logistics Specialist Training Wing HQ –CO: Wg Cdr Samantha M Smy MA RAF

8 Comd DCSp experiencing the C17 VR Technology first hand

In April, DMTS hosted the inaugural visit of Comd DCSp, Brig Bunkle, and took the opportunity to highlight its innovative use of C17 VR technology to aid its training delivery across many of its courses. DMTS also welcomed a new LE Officer, Capt Jay Mall, as the Squadron 2IC as well as celebrating the promotions of both SSgt Hardwick and Sgt Rainford to WO2 and SSgt, respectively.

DPSTS

Spring 2025 has seen the high tempo and varied range of course delivery from the Defence Petroleum and Specialist Training Sqn (DPSTS) continue. From Advanced Tailoring and Dangerous Goods to Petroleum Laboratory Operators and Pet Op Initial Trade Training. The Sqn bade a fond farewell to WO2 Ronny Khoza who moves to Regional Command’s Petroleum Inspectorate after several years at DPSTS working his magic to make things happen seamlessly behind the scenes. He will be sorely missed but has prepared his successor WO2 Ben Hill well.

The OC and Snr Trainer have worked their passports hard this term, developing relationships with partners from the USA, South Korea, Germany, and France. Conversations that will inform how we train better for interoperability and higher survivability in a post Ukraine war environment have begun to ensure British Army’s fuel storage, testing and delivery can meet the needs for the future.

DPSTS visited Holzdorf, Germany, for a trilateral rail fuel transport meeting with French and German counterparts, hosted by the Bundeswehr Specialist Engineer Training & Exercise Centre (SETEC). This enabled DPSTS to generate rail training material to meet the emergent training needs of the Field Army.

73 Squadron

73 Sqn brings readers insights from two exciting opportunities.

Long Look – By Corporal McLocklan

In April this year, I had the opportunity to deploy on Exercise Long Look at the Army School of Transport in Puckapunyal, Australia. As part of my deployment, I

worked alongside Australian Instructors, observing their methods, exchanging ideas, and comparing the differences in our teaching approaches.

My first assignment was with my host and liaison Sgt Patrick Turner in NCO troop, which is part of the Command Training Wing (CTW) where he delivers the Basic Officers Course. I was there to observe and exchange training practices, including instructional delivery and tactical methodology. The contrast in teaching styles between our forces provided valuable insights into refining leadership training.

Next, I was assigned to the Oversized Vehicle Troop, where I witnessed firsthand how Australian personnel train drivers within their transport trade. I observed their instruction on the MAN HX81 series heavy transport lift vehicles, equivalent to our Oshkosh fleet. This included their permit system and the principles of load security, lashing, tying down, and securing multiple loads. This training has broadened my understanding of their approach to logistics operations using road trains.

My third assignment placed me with the Road Transport Wing [RTW]. One of their responsibilities is to train Initial Trade Trainees (ITTs). This aspect differed significantly from UK training, as Australian personnel focus exclusively on military vehicle instruction. Once qualified, trainees earn their Defence Driving Licence, enabling them to operate military vehicles only, on public roads. The primary vehicles they train on include the HX40M [SV 6T] and HX77 [EPLS] with trailers.

While working with the Road Transport Wing, I also had the opportunity to observe Perentie Troop, a holding unit for ITTs. Here, trainees undergo military continuation training while awaiting further career courses, qualifying them in their individual trades or posting assignments.

Reflecting on this experience, the differences in training methodologies between the UK and Australia were striking. The Australian military’s approach to transport qualifications places a strong emphasis on specialisation within military vehicle operations, ensuring personnel are highly proficient in their specific transport roles.

8 Obligatory Australian Wildlife picture, no sharp teeth or poison a bonus

Exercise Long Look offered invaluable exposure to alternative training perspectives, reinforcing the importance of adaptability and knowledge exchange in military logistics. The lessons learned during my deployment will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing evolution of my personal development as an instructor delivering trade training to Vehicle Support Specialists.

8 DPSTS develop Rail Fuel Training with German and French counterparts on Holzdorf

8 The Australian Army Road Transport Wing training ITTs

Supporting Maritime Security in the Caribbean

By Cpl Mark Maudsley.

I recently had the privilege of deploying to the Turks and Caicos Islands with the Royal Navy International Maritime Training Team (IMTT) to deliver two one-week engineering courses focusing on outboard motors and small boat systems for personnel from the Turks and Caicos Islands Regiment, the Marine Police, the Coast Guard, and the Department of Fisheries.

Each group had up to ten students, and we covered a wide range of topics - from basic engine components and how carburettors and fuel pumps work, to practical, hands-on fault-finding. The training was tailored around the vessels they use regularly, including Gemini RIBs, SAFE boats, and former RNLI-designed craft.

The training was provided by the UK at the request of the FCDO to help counter the increasing threat from maritime and overseas crime. With the aim of improving their confidence and capability in diagnosing and repairing faults themselves - vital skills given their demanding roles –these teams are often on the front line of maritime operations, including intercepting drug runners, dealing with illegal migration from Haiti, and carrying out search and rescue tasks around the islands. Additionally, the RN IMTT conducted training in VBSS, craft handling and navigation.

The engagement was incredibly rewarding. The students were motivated and really threw themselves into the practical aspects of the course. By the end of each week, you could see the improvement in both their understanding and their confidence in working on the engines. In total 54 students attended the training, 20 from the engineering courses.

It’s been a great experience professionally and personally, and it really highlighted the positive impact we can make through specialist training. It also reinforced the importance of international cooperation and how much value The RLC brings to missions like this.

Supply Training Wing

Supply Training Wing (STW) hit the ground running in 2025 with both the QM’s Division and the Supply Chain Division reinvigorating several courses ready for the new training year. QMs Div has made the biggest content change in decades which will affect every unit in the Army, by merging both the RQMS and CQMS courses into the allnew All Arms Quartermaster Sgt’s (AAQM Sgt) course.

This new course has been designed to align training delivered by STW to the Land Training System, particularly “TRADEWIND”. The new AAQM Sgt Cse will deliver Field Army with qualified competent G4 experts from Sgt to WO and will most importantly negate the requirement for CQMSs to return to DSLA upon assignment to RQMS. This single course will save up to 32 training weeks per year and allow the QMs Div team more white space to deliver more course instances across the plethora of their output. SCD using the same “TRADEWIND” handrail has also worked hand in hand with QMs Div as they designed the AAQM Sgt course and have aligned the training objective of this course with the Supply Chain Manager course (Supply SNCO course). In adding the required few training objectives from QMs Div means that moving forward Supply Chain SNCOs will also gain the AAQM Sgt competency. Again, this will save a vast amount of training wastage for professional logisticians and qualify them during this upgrading course to take on the roles of either CQMS or RQMS in the future.

All of the Div’s came together in April to plan and deliver an Inset week. The aim was to develop teamwork, promote well-being and enhance professional and personal development contributing to the operational effectiveness of the Wing. Each of the five Div’s delivered a wide array of activity designed to meet the aim and consisted of a Unit Authorised Adventure Training (UAAT) Mountain Bike activity; a potted sports competition to develop speed, strength, skill, agility and teamwork; an urban orienteering competition designed to foster team cohesion, enhance navigation and problem-solving skills, and provide an enjoyable and engaging experience; a talk on mental health, outlook and training for success designed to promote health and well-being; a threat brief capturing lessons from Ukraine to develop collective understanding of the threats posed to the JSC in a warfighting environment; a E2E Joint Supply Chain brief designed to provide an overview of the E2E Joint Supply Chain from a Land and Air perspective to contribute to professional development and collective understanding of the joint supply chain; a workshop focused on CPD and a LinkedIn master class; and to bring the week to a close a wellbeing 8km walk designed to provide an opportunity to reflect on the success of the inset week over brunch as a team.

Our Land Command Training Sqn (LCTS) has been busy hosting a wide series of briefs to provide Continuous Professional Development (CPD) for SSgt – WO1 across the entire Corps, with particular focus on conceptual development to enhance career aspirations. CPD explored relevant logistic doctrine, particularly the Theatre Logistic Laydown (‘The Cone Show’), current logistic operations and RLC career paths, all delivered by relevant subject matter experts. Currently, the LCTS team is working towards integration of the final exercise for the RLC Troop Commanders’ Course - Ex TIMBER TRUSS into the LWC directed CYCLONE series of exercises. A fantastic opportunity to work directly alongside RLC units as they work towards validation.

As one of DSLA’s Multicultural Leads- Sgt Bijay Hirachan along with Cpl Alena Gurung planned and executed a Holi festival. The event aimed to showcase unity, togetherness, and cultural diversity in line with DSLA’s commitment to multiculturalism and diversity.

The significance of celebrating Holi at DSLA went

8 The STTT enjoying a group photo in the sun

beyond just a festive occasion. It served as a platform to strengthen relationships among military and civilian staff, promoting a deeper understanding of cultural heritage and fostering cross-cultural appreciation within the organisation. Moreover, the event offered a well-deserved break from the daily routine, injecting a dose of moraleboosting energy and creativity into the DSLA community.

The final and most successful part of the year so far was the annual DSLA Awards night where, The Master of the Worshipful Company of Educators kindly endorsed this year’s winner of their Training Team of the Year Award. This award is presented to a team that has contributed most to their unit and DSLA through their continual professional development and student facing delivery during a training year.

Winner of the Worshipful Company of Educators Best Training Team award, was the Engineer Logistics Division (ELD), STW. This was swiftly followed by Miss Lesley James from the Quartermasters Div, STW winning the new instructor of the year award for her stalwart work since joining the team and Sgt Reece Fowler, Supply Chain Div, STW coming a very close second place for the outstanding contribution of the year award.

Catering Training Wing

CO: Cdr F Coles-Hendry RN

Catering Training Wing has been busy on all fronts this term. Instructors from CTW supported 167 Regt RLC on Ex ARMY SUSTAINER, as judges for the improvised cooking phase of the week.

Additionally, CTW deployed on Land Training Systems CYCLONE activity alongside the RLC Tp Comds Cse and 12 Sqn from 1 Regt RLC. This proved to be a great synchronisation of resources and efforts, as well as an opportunity to utilise drones for thermal imaging, which aids in reviewing tactical deployment of chefs in the field.

Within the wing, work is ongoing to install a new “Concept Kitchen”. We hope to establish revised methodology and more efficient kitchens, all whilst reducing the radiant temperatures generated and reducing demand on chefs in unit.

CTW has also been privileged to receive lectures and training from Master Butcher Julien Pursglove from the Worshipful Company of Butchers. He led a lamb butchery masterclass which saw instructors get stuck in and process three lambs which sharpened the instructors’ skills. This training is in preparation for the re-introduction of game prep and cooking as part of the Field Training Phase and will hopefully provide additional skills to our young chefs in training.

CTW is always looking for future instructors to face the challenge of catering training. Chefs passionate about their trade, eager to see change and driven to succeed are strongly encouraged to get in touch. The role is demanding yet rewarding, with genuine opportunity to influence the way we train our new soldiers.

Visits to CTW are always welcome, and it only takes an email to get started!

8 WO1 Hilton receives Miss James’ New Trainer of the Year award

8 Engineer Logistics Division win best training team of the year award

8 Holi Festival in full flow at Worthy Down

8 Julien and the team after butchering the lamb

8 WO1 (SMI) Bale and the team on Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 25

Working within the Movement Control Centre at the Sea Mounting Centre Marchwood, a new concept of how to operate within 17 P&M Regt RLC was born out of necessity during OP LINOTYPER, where existing port processes failed to keep pace with operational demands. As documentation errors and inefficiencies mounted, it became clear that small but meaningful process changes were needed. The first improvement I made involved replacing handwritten tallies with a simple Excel-based system. By copying data from spreadsheets into a digital tally sheet with embedded formulas, staff could verify item serials instantly during loading. This effectively stopped cross-loading errors and marked the beginning of a more modernised approach to port operations.

A major challenge lay in the manual population of Cargo and Stowage Report (CSR), with thousands of rows of data and multiple spreadsheets requiring complete accuracy per period. To solve this, I designed and built the Port Management & Assurance System (PMAS). Initially tested with prototype Near Field Communicaton capabilities, the final system removed this functionality in favour of scalable simplicity. PMAS instead draws data directly from a master Cargo Load List (CLL) database and allows port users to input serial numbers and assign stowage electronically. This eliminated human error from manual entry, provided live visibility of items within the port, and enabled better space management –delivering critical insights for operational decision-making.

New Ways of Working

Innovation and ingenuity win the day at 17 P&M Regt RLC

By Cpl M Drabble, 53 HQ Sqn

The previously time-consuming exports “Can Consignee Accept” (CCA) process was also overhauled. We had relied on individual emails, taking approximately five minutes per consignment. While the Microsoft Form already existed, I built and attached a Power Automate flow that transformed the process endto-end. Now, when a consignor submits a delivery request through the form, the data is instantly validated against set criteria. If approved, the system automatically sends out an acceptance email with a unique reference number. This automation has saved more than 120 hours of staff time in a matter of months and accepted one thousand nine hundred requests, improved delivery visibility, and added real-time flexibility for both port users and consignors.

Beyond port operations, these innovations inspired improvements elsewhere in the Regt. I have created a gym RFT and SCA

8

booking system that notifies the armoury automatically, generating pre-filled scorecards for gym use, and sends reminder emails one month before expiry to prompt rebooking. Meanwhile, the Motor Transport (MT) Booking System, developed by Capt Fulton, is now a customised, digitised FMT1000 submission with full justification tracking. Users can now monitor the status of their requests, and MT staff can better prioritise and manage fleet demand. Together, these systems represent a wider cultural shift across the Regtadopting smarter tools and automated workflows to save time, reduce errors, and enhance operational output.

8 During OP LINOTYPER, existing port processes failed to keep pace with operational demands

Handwritten tallies are now a thing of the past

8 Movement control automation has saved hundreds of hours of staff time at Marchwood

Once upon a drunken evening, an RLC veteran and his two mates sat in a pub, debating the age-old dilemma… Just how fit we were compared to how fit we THINK we are. Naturally, after several rounds too many someone proposed an excellent idea. We would walk the West Highland Way! A mere 97 miles with full kit. What could possibly go wrong?

Full of bravado, we each returned home to inform our significant others of this heroic quest. Their response? My two friends were swiftly told by their wives to stop being ridiculous, leaving me, accompanied only by my Border Collie, Shep. And thus began the epic march across Scotland in late March, all in support of Walking With The Wounded.

Late March in Scotland is a season lovingly known for its blizzards, downpours, relentless wind. Prepared for the apocalypse, I trained in the Yorkshire Dales with my 18.5kg bergan packed with essentials: my kit, Shep’s jungle blanket, his food, my six days of dried rations and a two-person tent. The sun was shining when I started at Milngavie, where I promptly followed some fellow walkers - only to realise they were heading to their hotel!

Map now in hand, I tramped onward and reached Drymen by 22:00, seven hours and several blisters later. The next day led me to Balmaha, where I discovered the best pain relief known to man - two pints of cider. By now, my shoulders were raw, and my pack felt like a medieval torture device.

Walking With The Wounded

A lonely trek, and a dog who didn’t complain.

By Maj (Retd) Jon White TD VR

Slowly but surely, the lightweight dried rations I'd packed started doing more harm than good. Let’s be clear: they taste like boiled socks. And, shockingly, they also make you feel like boiled socks. The best decision of the trek? Binning them immediately and replacing them with actual food.

Here’s the thing about doing this solo: your brain turns against you. You have ten-hour days of marching through uneven, cruel terrain that forces you into deep mental negotiations. You contemplate bottling out. You question your choices. You start singing ridiculous songs and realise - with horror - that you’ve reached 1,011 bottles on that wall.

Meanwhile, Shep merely trotted ahead, delighted by the madness.

Ten-hour days

After Loch Lomond, my journey took me past Bridge of Orchy, Glencoe (where I had a solemn moment imagining the 1692 massacre while eating scampi and chips in the rain), and up into Rannoch Moor. The miles blurred into old military roads, droving paths, forests, logging routes, and the infamous Devil’s Staircase. Finally, on the last day, Scotland delivered the inevitable sleet.

At Fort William, I collapsed onto THE SEAT, a statue of the old man massaging his feet. I had survived. And raised over £1,100 - enough to fund nine mental health sessions for retired soldiers.

For those willing enough to attempt this, here’s some advice:

1. Hire a luggage company –because an 18.5kg pack is not fun.

2. Eat real food –because boiled sock rations are a crime against humanity.

3. Do it with friends –unless you particularly enjoy debating life’s existential questions with a dog.

4. Do it for a cause –because then you can’t back out.

8 Jon White transferred into the RLC from Green Howards and held the post of Sqn Cdr at 104 Pnr Sqn 168 Pnr Regt before taking up a training role at 15 NE Bde. Mobilsied in 2006 he served with 19 Lt Bde on Op Telic 9 and then JF Sp7 (A), 11 Lt Bde and finally at 16 Air Assault Brigade in Colchester. Until recently he served as a CFAV with Yorks North and West Cadets.

8 Four pairs of sore feet recover in

8 Jon White and Shep

Fort William

8

of marching alone through cruel terrain resulted in Jon debating life’s existential questions with his dog

The Defence School of Transport

Comdt: Col Laura Craig-Braddock • COS: Lt Col Damion Moxon • GSM: WO1 W Ball

New ways of working

The Defence School of Transport remains committed to transforming at the pace of relevance to ensure the delivery of Defence driver training is fit for purpose and safe. Current examples of this include the recent delivery of PLS operator and instructor conversion training, and the introduction of the Wheeled Multi-Platform Instructor (WMPI) course. Once qualified, a WMPI can deliver authorised distributed driver training on any vehicle platform listed on the WMPI permitted list, provided they are current and competent on that platform.

DST also adopts new ways of working during Communications and Information Systems (CIS) training, employing Agile ways of working to accelerate transformation.

Communication Information Systems (CIS) Sqn Training at DST: Enabling new ways of working through modern training methods

In an era defined by rapid technological advancement and evolving operational demands, DST’s CIS training is playing a pivotal role in shaping a more agile, connected, and digitally capable force. DST’s CIS training is no longer confined to traditional classroom-based instruction; it now embraces a dynamic blend of modern delivery methods designed to empower personnel to operate smarter, faster,

and more collaboratively across diverse environments.

Modernised training for modern operations - The training programme has been transformed to reflect the realities of contemporary military operations, where digital communication, secure data handling, and real-time information sharing are mission critical. Trainees are equipped with the skills to deploy, maintain, and troubleshoot a range of CIS equipment ensuring connectivity in both static and mobile scenarios. Integration of modern training methodologies that support adaptability, interoperability, and continuous learning at DST include:

• Blended Learning. A combination of classroom instruction, e-learning modules, and virtual simulations allows trainees to engage with content at their own pace while reinforcing core concepts through hands-on practice.

• Scenario-Based Simulations. Realistic field exercises and Comms Ex planning replicate operational environments, enabling trainees to apply radio communication protocols under pressure.

• Virtual Reality and DLE. Immersive technologies are used to simulate complex communication networks and battlefield scenarios, enhancing decision-making skills.

• Interactive Digital Platforms. Online portals and mobile apps provide on-demand access to training materials, SOPs, and troubleshooting guides, supporting

learning anytime, anywhere.

• Collaborative Learning Environments. Group-based problem-solving tasks, trainee research for back-briefs and peerto-peer feedback encourages teamwork and communication.

Empowering the future forceBy embedding CIS training within the broader context of new ways of working and leveraging modern delivery methods, DST is developing a fighting force that is not only technically skilled but also forwardthinking and mission ready. As the demands on Defence communications continue to evolve, the CIS innovative training approach ensures that service personnel are prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow with confidence, competence, and creativity.

How Agile ways of working are accelerating digital transformation across DST Agile is more than a methodology, it's a mindset that empowers individuals and teams to achieve DST’s goals through data-driven decision-making and collaborative problem-solving. By focusing on priorities and working iteratively, Agile enables teams to deliver value quickly and adapt to change effectively.

Among the various Agile frameworks, Scrum has proven to be the most suitable for the DST Senior Leadership Team (SLT). Scrum promotes small, empowered, crossfunctional teams that work from a dynamic backlog - a prioritised list of tasks that evolves with the project.

The Scrum cycle at DST

• Sprint Planning. Every three weeks, the SLT selects three high-priority goals from the backlog to focus on during a Sprint. This time-boxed cycle allows the team to deliver tangible progress on the most critical issues

• Weekly Scrum meetings. Throughout the Sprint, the SLT and project leads meet weekly to review progress, coordinate efforts, and resolve any blockers. These meetings ensure alignment and

8 CIS training is playing a pivotal role

help maintain momentum toward achieving Sprint goals

• Sprint Review. At the end of each Sprint, a review meeting is held with stakeholders and customers.The focus is on gathering feedback, inspecting the product, and ensuring that all objectives have been met. Adjustments to the backlog are made based on these discussions

• Sprint Retrospective. Following the review, the SLT conducts a retrospective to reflect on the process and identify opportunities for improvement. The team commits to testing at least one new idea in the next Sprint to support continuous improvement. Effective facilitation by the DST HQ Scrum Master is key to this process.

Achievements and impact

Agile practices have enabled DST to deliver approximately 28 products this year. These include enhancements to Senior Defence Driving Examiner capability training, refined workforce Terms of Reference, optimised technical infrastructure, introduce course loading via the My Trg App, and the delivery of training for the PLS platform, among others.

Scrum has transformed how DST operates, enabled collaborative planning, rapid feedback, and a culture of innovation. Agile ways of working are helping DST deliver valuable outcomes more efficiently, ultimately enhancing operational effectiveness across Defence.

‘Search‘UKStratCom Agility’on MOD SharePoint for more information on Agile and Scrum’

DST strengthens key partnerships

Continuing the theme of innovation in working practices, we recently welcomed two significant visitors to DST.

DVSA CEO visit reinforces training standards

DST hosted Loveday Ryder, CEO of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, in a visit designed to strengthen existing partnerships and explore future collaborative opportunities. The engagement provided an excellent platform to showcase DST's capabilities and build upon the established relationship between the two organisations.

The visit highlighted the critical importance of DST's relationship with DVSA, particularly regarding Driver Licence Acquisition Training and Testing. This partnership forms a fundamental component in maintaining the school's Licence to Operate, ensuring that military personnel receive training that meets civilian regulatory standards.

Safety focus with the Defence Land Safety Regulator

In a separate visit, DST welcomed Brig Ben Wrench, Head of the Defence Land Safety Regulator. The comprehensive visit programme demonstrated DST's unwavering commitment to safety across all training activities.

Safety remains central to DST's operations, with protecting the Licence to Operate serving as the primary consideration in developing, designing, and delivering every

course, whether conducted at the school or through distributed training methods.

Brig Wrench observed the Wheeled Multi-Platform Instructor Course, examined simulation capabilities, and reviewed the transformation of Driver Licence Acquisition Training and Testing programmes.

Both visits highlight the importance of maintaining strong relationships with regulatory bodies and safety authorities in delivering world-class military transport training.

RLC Sports Awards – Outstanding Achievement Winner

Congratulations to DST’s Corporal Paige Atwell who has been recognised for her exceptional contributions to Army sport, balancing military duties with elite performance and leadership in both ice hockey and strength athletics. A founding member of the Army Fury women’s ice hockey team, she has played a pivotal role in its development, and her leadership earned her the role of assistant captain and later Team Manager in 2024.

Cpl Atwell also claimed the title of UK Armed Forces Strongest Woman 2025, breaking records and earning a place in Britain’s Strongest Woman. She also qualified as a coach and launched the first inter-service strongman/woman competition at DST Leconfield.

Her tireless dedication, organisational skill, and inspirational leadership have left a lasting legacy in Army sport. We can all agree that Cpl Atwell is a truly deserving recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award.

8 Cpl Paige Atwell

8 Sprint Cycle

8 DVSA CEO Loveday Ryder on the driving Sim at DST

Nestled on the edge of Southampton Water, Marchwood has long been a cornerstone of British military maritime operations. Since the early 1970s, it has played host to military diving activities, evolving into a hub of underwater capability and expertise. The Defence Diving School, established in the 1995 on Hilsea Island Portsmouth, further cemented Marchwood’s role in training and deploying Army and Royal Navy divers. Today, it remains a vital location for the development and deployment of military divers including those from 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC.

The 17 P&M Regt dive team is a specialised team that is trained to operate in some of the most challenging environments. Their roles span a wide spectrum of underwater tasks, including port infrastructure inspections, underwater demolitions, search and recovery operations, and the clearance of obstructions or explosive threats. These capabilities are essential not only for military operations but also for humanitarian missions, where divers may be called upon to clear disaster-struck ports or assist in rescue efforts. Their work ensures that the Army’s maritime logistics chain remains unbroken, even in the most adverse conditions.

Among the Regt’s standout performers is Cpl Jones, whose journey through the Army’s diving ranks has been nothing short of exemplary. Having first passed his Army Diver Class 2 (AD2) course in 2017, he went on to complete the Army Diver Class 1 (AD1) course in 2019. Most recently, he achieved the pinnacle of Army diving by successfully completing the Army Diving Supervisor (ADS) course - a gruelling nine-week programme that tests every facet of a soldier’s physical, technical, and leadership abilities. The ADS course is designed to prepare divers to lead complex and hazardous underwater operations, requiring not only advanced diving skills but also the ability to make critical decisions under pressure. Cpl Jones’ success is a testament to his resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Diving Deep: The RLC’s Military Divers

Joining him in the spotlight are LCpl Monsellato-Boyd and Pte McCreery, who have both recently passed the AD2 course. Their achievement is particularly significant, as they are the first RLC soldiers in over two years to complete the course and join the dive team. The AD2 course is known for its intensity, high attrition rate, demanding mastery of underwater navigation, search and recovery, demolitions, and engineering tasks - all under highstress conditions. Both soldiers demonstrated exceptional grit and determination, earning their place among the ranks of Army divers.

These accomplishments mark a new chapter for the 17 P&M Regt

8

8 The Army’s diving courses are extremely demanding both mentally and physically

dive team. With fresh talent and renewed momentum, the team is well-positioned to continue delivering critical support to military and humanitarian operations worldwide. Whether clearing underwater hazards, conducting vital repairs, or supporting amphibious missions, the contributions of these divers will be invaluable.

17 P&M Regt and The RLC proudly congratulate Cpl Jones, LCpl Monsellato-Boyd, and Pte McCreery. Their achievements not only reflect personal triumphs but also inspire the next generation of soldiers to dive into one of the Army’s most demanding and rewarding specialisations.

If you are interested in becoming a Military Diver within The RLC, it is an option for all home trades within 17 Port & Maritime Regiment.

Be it a Port Operator, Mariner, Marine Engineer or Vehicle Support Specialist, all these trades are recruiting so there is opportunity to transfer to 17 P&M Regt. If you are interested in becoming a Military Diver within the Regt, email: Christopher.Brown214@mod.gov.uk for more information.

Cpl Jones with his ADS certificate

What a day to remember! The fourth annual Wagoners’ Challenge galloped into action on Sunday, 11 May 2025, transforming the idyllic gardens of Sledmere House in Driffield into a vibrant celebration of military heritage, physical endurance, and community spirit. This unique event is a collaboration between 150 Regiment RLC (Wagoners’ Reserve), the Sledmere Estate, and the Museum of the Wagoners’ Special Reserve. Together, they brought to life the legacy of the original Wagoners’ of WWIcourageous men and animals who played a critical role in military logistics during the Great War. Their vision was first realised by Colonel Sir Mark Sykes, the 6th Baronet of Sledmere.

A challenge like no other Twelve teams from across The RLC battled it out in a series of tough, exhilarating events designed to test their strength, leadership, and teamwork. Just like their WWI predecessors, competitors had to adapt quickly –especially when horses were involved! Events included: The Pack Horse Race, The Bale Challenge, Driving the General Service (GS) Wagon, Tug of War and The Gun Run.

After a hard-fought contest, it was 1 Regiment RLC who took home the coveted title of Wagoners’ Challenge Champions 2025. A massive congratulations to the team!

A festival for all ages

More than a thousand visitors joined the fun, with the grounds of Sledmere House offering a packed programme for all ages. Highlights included: a stirring performance by the 150 Regt Band, WWI displays

Wagoners’ Challenge 2025

Heritage, horses, and heroics at Sledmere House

By Lt Col (Retd) Sheryl Stonehouse

and reenactments by the Museum of the Wagoners Special Reserve, demonstrations from the RLC’s Horse-Drawn Heritage, live blacksmithing by Farrier Jarvis Browning, informative exhibits from East Riding Council, the Royal British Legion, and various service charities.

The day also featured a delightful buffet lunch hosted by the Waggon Club in the beautiful Orangerie, where members gathered to enjoy great food and share stories.

Hats off to the organisers

Congratulations go to 150 Regiment RLC for their outstanding organisation, the Sledmere team, and the dedicated staff and volunteers from the Museum of the Wagoners’ Special Reserve. We can’t wait to see what’s in store for next year!

Exercise ARMY SUSTAINER 2025 was held at Prince William of Gloucester Barrack on the 17 May 25. There were over 140 entries, coming from 25 units covering the RLC, the RAF, QOGLR and the five other nations that attended.

The competition was hard fought across 14 categories – ranging from edible centrepieces, knife skills, to team field catering. The international cohort performed highly – with The Royal Army of Oman and Lithuanian Armed Forces chefs winning in a slew of categories.

The head judges of the event all highlighting the teamwork and leadership capabilities of all the teams involved.

Once again, the event helped the 167 Regt RLC, 104 TS Bde and the wider Armed Forces solidify ongoing defence engagement and continue to showcase the capability of their Chefs.

Ex Army Sustainer 2025

The winners were:

• Nations Day – Lithuania (1)

• Open Skills Vegan Dish –LCpl Mitchell

• Open Skills Poultrty Dish –LCpl Sewell

• Junior Knife Skills – Pte Rana

• Open Skills Fish Dish – Laima Jasiuniene (Lithuania)

• Open Skills Pasta Dish –Pte Aseri Loko

• Open Skills Hot Dessert –LCpl Marriot

• Open Novelty Cake Display –Hussain Al AL Ajmi (Oman)

• Open Centre Piece Display –Cpl Ganesh Bhujel

• Street Food Challenge –Zyginta Puziene (Lithuania)

• Junior Chef of the Year –Pte Alfie Jones

• Senior Chef of the Year –Cpl Pun

• Field Challenge – Cpl Umit Rai, LCpl Niman Rai, Pte Abiral Rai

• Improvised Challenge – LCpl Rai, Pte Conners, Pte Hardy

Images: Sgt C Eden RLC Media Team

RLC Connect continues to go from strength to strength, developing an ever-expanding network with the commercial and academic logistics communities. Our core aim is: To promote professional development in the Corps through engagement with industry and academia. This remains at the heart of all that we do.

The Corps extends a very warm welcome to Oracle and Allied British Ports who have recently joined RLC Connect. Moving forward together we look towards a mutually rewarding partnership.

DHL hosted by Webinar, a Service Leavers Transition Workshop - 14 May 25

Service leavers were briefed on the pathway from their military career to civilian employment and the importance of mapping across their military qualifications to their future employment. They were also advised on the excellent work that the Career Transition Partnership does within their transition phase. Those attending the Webinar had the opportunity to speak to the presentation team, most of whom were military veterans. This was a very successful event and those attending are now better informed as they transition to civilian employment. DHL is holding its Team Managers Symposium at RMA Sandhurst on Thu 2 Oct whereby any Service Leaver in their last 6 months who wishes to attend should contact the Business Support Manager at: RLCConnect2024@gmail.com

RLC Connect visit to Cardiff Buses - 20 May 25

The aim of the visit was to get an overview of the various elements of delivering a public transport service

RLC Connect

which included planning, vehicle capability, engineering and driver skills. Craig Hampton-Stone (late RLC), Managing Director Cardiff Buses and his team set the scene with briefings on Strategic Operations, Scheduling and Service Delivery and Engineering Capability. We also had a tour of their maintenance facility and operations room. The operations room monitors all bus activity within the Cardiff area which enables instant remedial action should there be a problem with congestion, road closures or accidents. The maintenance facility has the unique capability of providing in-house repairs to their bus fleet. A very worthwhile and informative visit.

RHQ The RLC Exercise LOG SAFARI - 21 Jul 25

Forty-three RLC Connect members enjoyed a visit to Worthy Down on 21 Jul. The day started with a guided tour of the RLC Museum hosted by the Director of the

Museum, Maj (Retd) Simon Walmsley. After the museum tour our members visited the specialist trade capability stands showcasing various equipment's. They also received a series of informative briefings from our soldiers from the Petroleum Operator, Movement Controller, Postal & Courier Operator, Driver Communications Specialist and Air Despatch and Chef trades plus and insight into Air Assault Support. RLC Connect members were also briefed on how The RLC provides logistic support and other essential services to the Army, Royal Navy, Air Force and our NATO and coalition partners.

RLC Connect Awards Citations

RLC Connect Awards citations should be submitted to Alan Woods (rlcfwoods@gmail.com) by 5 Sep 25. This is a unique opportunity for the Chain of Command to recognise the excellent work that is being done by officers and soldiers from across the Corps. Further information can be found on the RLC DOWNREP.

The Battle of Kangla Tongbi is remembered as one of the fiercest battles of WW2. It took place in Burma (now Myanmar) on the 6/7 April 1944. 221 Advanced Ordnance Depot was staffed by troops from both the RAOC and (Indian) IAOC. It sat in an exposed position at the side of the ImphalDimapur Road, had little in the way of a defensive perimeter and was tasked with supplying troops defending the Imphal Base.

On the night of 6 April 1944 the 33rd Japanese Division in a surprise move, cut in behind the Allied Forces lines, establishing themselves on the Kohima –Manipur highway and started

The RLC Museum

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

advancing towards Kangla Tongbi.

The Depot staff put up stiff resistance and were fired upon constantly through the night, culminating in a dawn attack from the high ground. The attack was thwarted by a well sited Bren Gun manned by Havildar Basant Singh. A clerk in the IAOC, he was awarded the Indian Distinguished Service Medal for his action.

Major JPM Boyd, the senior Ordnance Officer at the Depot, led a series of aggressive counter attacks, causing the Japanese to withdraw, for which he was awarded the Military Cross. WO1 (Cdr) Parker who took part in these counter attacks, also led a small team against a Japanese machine gun position and in the face of heavy fire, captured it killing three Japanese soldiers. For this action WO1 (Cdr) Parker was awarded the Military Medal.

When WO1 (Cdr) Parkers’ Military Medal appeared in an auction, the RLC Museum did not

hesitate to bid for it. With assistance from a V&A/Arts Council England purchase grant, the museum was successful, and the medal can now be put on display. Ordnance staff or Logisticians, in today’s terms, are first and foremost soldiers and no matter what their role. They must be ready and willing to fight and engage the enemy, at any time and with no notice. The three soldiers recognised above exemplify the fighting spirit of the Logistic Soldier.

RAOC gallantry at the Battle of Kangla Tongbi

Since its inception in July 2023, the RLC Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) team has rapidly established itself as a pioneering force in promoting the sport within the Corps and the wider Army. BJJ, known for its emphasis on technique, discipline, and mental resilience, provides invaluable benefits to serving personnel. Through rigorous training, competition, and shared experiences, The RLC team has built camaraderie, enhanced physical fitness, and developed problem-solving skills applicable both on and off the mat.

In two years, the RLC BJJ team has made remarkable strides. We began in November 2023 with an exclusive seminar with one of the UK’s most well-known grapplers and 2021 ADCC Trials winner, Eoghan O’Flanagan, who offered invaluable insights into the technical and strategic aspects of the sport.

2024 was an exciting year, marked by significant milestones. The team competed at the Army BJJ Championships in February coming away with two gold medals, eight silver and a bronze. In April, we hosted a coaching course and a seminar with ADCC European Trials winner, Taylor Pearman, further strengthening our technical and instructional capabilities. May saw an intensive week-long training camp at Long Eaton BJJ, preparing our athletes for the Inter-Services and Front-Line Services competitions in June where they won a further three golds, three silvers and a bronze.

RLC Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Jiu-Jitsu going from strength to strength

October saw another training camp that set the stage for the AJP Abu Dhabi Competition in November, a major international event that tested our team against elite global competitors. The team is consistently representing The RLC and the Army by entering civilian run competitions.

One of our most active competitors, SSgt Leon Hinds, a black belt, has competed at the highest level in the UK and abroad, earning podium positions at all levels. One highlight was his gold medal at the 2024 IBJJF World Masters Championship. When asked about his BJJ experience, Leon said: “One of my favourite things about BJJ is the community. You meet people from all walks of life, and everyone supports each other. It's like a big family. Plus, there's always something new to learn. Even now, after years of training, I still feel like a beginner sometimes.”

Now in 2025, the team competed at this year’s Army Championships and Front-Line Services Championships, leaving with two gold and two silver medals: a testament to the dedication and progress of the team. Looking ahead, we will have many

opportunities to attend training camps, seminars and compete, both within the UK and abroad, where we aim to build upon our success and continue pushing our limits.

The creation of the RLC BJJ Team was driven by a desire to expand the sport within the Corps and the broader Army. We firmly believe that BJJ is more than just a martial art - it is a tool for personal growth, resilience, and operational effectiveness. The sport fosters attributes such as perseverance, adaptability, and strategic thinking, all of which are essential in military service.

Our aim is to continue growing the team, increasing participation, and ensuring that soldiers at all levels have access to high-quality coaching and competition opportunities; through structured training sessions, elite-level coaching, and international exposure.

For those looking to challenge themselves, improve their physical and mental resilience, and become part of a tight-knit team, get involved and check out the RLC BJJ group in the RLC App.

8 The team has benefitted by training with some elite grapplers

8 SSgt Hinds wins gold at the World Masters

8 In 2024 the team had a highly successful Army BJJ Championships

Royal Logistic Corps Annual Festival of Sport

On the 19 Jul 25, The RLC came together at Worthy Down for its annual Festival of Sport. The festival is a vibrant celebration of teamwork, competition, and the chance to try something new. The event brought together Service Personnel from across the Corps, creating a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of sporting activities while fostering camaraderie and unit spirit.

The day kicked off with an impressive Sports Fair, featuring 31 different sports for attendees to explore.

From the precision and skill of fencing to the fast-paced world of esports – and even the adrenaline of motorsports – there was something to appeal to every interest and ability.

Following the Sports Fair, individuals and unit teams spent the day testing their skills, competing in friendly matches, and discovering new talents. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and determination as participants battled it out for trophies, while also enjoying the chance to step outside their comfort zones.

And the winners were…

Rugby Winner - 9 Regt

Netball 17 P&M Regt

Football White Cup – Regular RLC Men’s Golf Winner – 17 P&M Regt

Longest Drive & Closest to the Pin –LCpl Organ (29 Regt)

Athletics 5k run

Junior Male

Winner - Pte Muktan (13 AASR)

Junior Female

Winner – Pte Nave (6 Bn REME)

Senior Male & Overall Winner

Winner – SSgt Bowling (13 AASR)

Senior Female

Winner – Sgt Preece

Masters Male

Winner – SSgt Green (7 Regt)

Masters Female

Winner – Col Miller (Army HQ)

Basketball Winner – 10 QOGLR

British Army

Warrior Fitness Winner – 6 Regt

Feats of Strength Grip Strength

Challenges

Winner – Pte Flaherty (6 Regt)

Watt Bike - 6 sec best effort

Winner – 2Lt Insley, 29 Regt (1366W)

Ski ERG - 90s max distance

Winner – WO2 Anderson

Laser Run Team

Modern Winner – 10 QOGLR

Pentathlon Individual Winner – 2Lt Hartley

Orienteering Unit

Regular Unit Winners: 10 QOGLR

Reserve Unit Winners: 152 Regt

Individual

Fastest Male Novice Winner:

LCpl Gurung 193 (10 QOGLR)

Fastest Female Novice Winner:

LCpl Etiang (9 Regt)

Fastest U25 winner: Pte Rai 914 (25 Regt)

Sport Climbing Unit

Winner – 9 Regt

Individual

Winner – Pte Kyle Flaherty (6 Regt)

Badminton Open Doubles

Cpl Biraj Rai (10 QOGLR)

Cpl Sajan Gurung (29 Regt RLC)

Mounted Skill RLC v Countess Mountbatten’s at Arms

Corps Colonel’s

Own Legion of Frontiersmen

The Winners of the 6 competitions were:

1. Team Lance – RLC

2. Team Sword - RLC

3. Individual Lance – Maj James Ware RLC

4. Individual Sword - Lt Col Ange

Briggs RLC

5. TR&AP – Maj James Ware RLC

6. Master at Arms (highest point scorer overall) – Maj James Ware RLC

Challenge Winners - 13 AASR

On 15 May 2025, The RLC held its Inter-Unit Boxing Championships at the 27 Regt gymnasium in Aldershot. The night saw nine bouts between various regiments of the Corps with an appearance from the RLC Corps of Drums during the intermission.

Huge congratulations go to Private Smith (27 Regt), who was awarded Best Boxer of the night and to 27 Regt who took the overall title.

Winners:

• Pte Smith (Lightweight), also Best Boxer, 27 Regt - Female

• Cfn Modourie (Lightweight), 27 Regt – Male

• Pte Radman-Daw (Light-Welter), 29 Regt – Male

• Pte Knight (Welterweight), 17 P&M Regt – Male

• Pte White (Light-Middle), 9 Regt – Female

• Pte James (Light-Middle), 29 Regt – Male

• Pte Fairbrother (Light-Heavy), 1 Regt – Male

• Cfn Thompson (Light-Heavy), 27 Regt – Male

• Cpl Davis (Cruiserweight), 27 Regt – Male.

The Corps congratulates the victors and all the boxers who took part in what was a superb display of courage and sportsmanship in the best traditions of the Army and Corps.

RLC Boxing

The RLC Inter-Unit Boxing Championships 2025

Sunshine, adrenaline, and the roar of determination… RLC Wakeboarding 2025 delivered another unforgettable week at Box End Park, where soldiers swapped boots for boards and discovered the power of pushing limits.

Now in its third year, the RLC Wakeboarding Camp has become more than just a sporting event; it’s a transformative experience. Designed to challenge both body and mind, the camp offers soldiers a unique opportunity to step away from their daily duties and immerse themselves in a sport that builds resilience, confidence, and camaraderie.

What began as a modest cable wakeboarding competition has grown into a full-scale, multidiscipline event. This year’s camp featured Cable Wakeboarding, Water Skiing, and Boat Wakeboarding, giving participants a broader platform to test their skills and discover new passions. Over the past three years, nearly 90 soldiers have taken part - many of them complete beginners - proving that this sport is as accessible as it is exhilarating.

Wakeboarding might seem like an unusual choice for military training, but its benefits are undeniable. It demands focus, balance, and mental toughnessqualities that translate directly into military life. For new riders, the learning curve can be steep, but the reward is immense. Every fall is

RLC Wakeboarding

Building confidence, camaraderie, and champions

followed by a rise, every wipeout by a comeback. It’s a sport that teaches perseverance in the face of challenge - a lesson every soldier understands.

This year’s camp culminated in a high-energy competition, with eight regiments vying for the title of Open Wakeboarding Champion. The event featured both Open and Novice categories, encouraging

participation from all skill levels and fostering a supportive, team-driven atmosphere.

The 2025 Competition Results

Team Champions

• Open: 17 P&M Regt

• Novice: 6 Regt

Individual Champions

• Ladies Open: Sgt Leann Lord – DST

• Ladies Novice: Pte Sharleen Holt

– 27 Regt

• Mens Open: Sgt Jason Cole – 17 P&M Regt

• Mens Novice: Pte David Pascoe –17 P&M Regt

These results reflect not just talent, but the dedication and spirit of every participant. Whether they were seasoned riders or first-timers, each soldier brought their best to the water - and left with new skills, new friendships, and a renewed sense of purpose. As the sun set on another successful year, one thing was clear: RLC Wakeboarding isn’t just a sport - it’s a movement. It’s about giving soldiers the space to grow, the courage to try, and the support to succeed. And with each passing year, it’s inspiring more people to take the leap.

Time flies when serious training and competition is underway! Team RLC kicked off the 2025 military equestrian season at the RAF Championships with top 10 placings in all the classes they entered. Lt Col Becky Darke was part of the Inter-Services team in the first leg of the 2025 competition, coming second individually with the team securing second in the dressage competition.

Other results:

Lt Col Hannah Hewins – Intro dressage – two 1st places Maj Georgie Mawbey – Novice dressage – 8th

2Lt Brian Leung – 105 cm and 110 cm showjumping – 5th and 8th

Later on in May, several key fixtures were held: the UK Armed Forces Dressage Championships, the Royal Windsor Horse Show and the Grassroots Championships at Badminton Horse Trials.

Lt Col Darke had top 10 placings across all four classes she entered showing her consistency at the level she and her horse are currently competing at. Lt Col Hewins, in her role as UKAF Equestrian Association treasurer presented the prizes at the UKAF Dressage Championships and remarked that: “It was a pleasure to spectate this time. Lt Col Darke was one of 13 Army riders, amongst 30 tri-service riders all showing incredible commitment,

RLC Equestrian

RLC Equestrian – RLC and Army Team updates

By 2Lt B Leung

good spirit and fantastic teamwork with their horses.”

At the Royal Windsor Horse Show, 2Lt Brian Leung and Pte Charlotte Keers, both from 151 Regt RLC, were part of the two Army teams to place team 4th and 5th in the the Kingdom of Bahrain Services Team Jumping competition.

And finally, 2Lt Leung had an educational and humbling time at the National Grassroots Eventing Championships at Badminton Horse Trials. After a strong start in the dressage phase and a ‘ride-bythe-pants’ showjumping round, they had a bit of an unscheduled dismount on the x-country phase after a slight error of judgement by 2Lt Leung; “It was a bit of a disappointing finish upon reflection, but we are both injuryfree and I definitely learned from our first ever championship experience. I am very grateful for the RLC’s support to getting to where I am, and who knows, we may qualify again for 2026.”

How to get involved:

The club provides riding opportunities for all RLC Service Personnel regardless of prior experience. Training at the RASC Larkhill caters for all abilities, proving stabling for our horse owners, or a horse for non-horse owners. It has facilities including an indoor menage, outdoor menage, BE XC course, hacking on Salisbury Plain, and a range of jumps. There is no associated membership fee, and the team is always are pleased to see new faces. Please get in touch with Training and Grassroots lead Maj Georgie Mawbey (georgina.mawbey101@mod.gov.uk) or club secretary Maj Rose Lambert (rose.lambert334@mod.gov.uk) to see what the club can offer you.

8 Pte Charlotte Keers riding her own horse in the Services Show Jumping at Royal Windsor Horse Show

8 2Lt Brian Leung pictured with the Club Chair Lt Col Lucy Anderson at the Grassroots Championships Badminton Horse Trails

8 2Lt Brian Leung in the show jumping phase of the Grassroots Championships Badminton Horse Trails

RLC Judo

RLC Judo triumphs at the UK Armed Forces Championships

The UK Armed Forces Judo Championships returned with full force on 12 Jun at Fox Lines, Aldershot, showcasing elite-level competition and camaraderie among the British Army, Royal Air Force, and Royal Navy. The event drew judoka from across the Services, competing in a range of weight and experience categories, with the British Army ultimately retaining the coveted Inter-Service title.

Among the standout performances for RLC Judo was Sgt Ben Stanley of ATSG, DM Kineton, who delivered a remarkable showing in the -73kg divisions. Competing in both the Veteran Dan Grade and Dan Grade categories, Sgt Stanley clinched gold in the former and silver in the latter, demonstrating technical precision and resilience throughout his matches. His dual podium finishes were instrumental in bolstering the Army’s overall medal tally.

Also making waves was Cpl Sprake of 17 Port and Maritime Regiment, who dominated the90kg Intermediate category, securing gold with a commanding performance. His aggressive style and tactical awareness earned him top honours and further reinforced the Army’s dominance in the intermediate ranks.

In the -81kg category, SSgt Harper, attached to 5th Regiment Royal Artillery, showcased grit and determination across both the Veteran Intermediate and Intermediate divisions. His efforts were rewarded with bronze medals in both categories, contributing valuable points to the Army’s team

score and exemplifying the depth of talent within the service.

The championships were not only a platform for individual excellence but also a testament to the strength of Army Judo as a collective. With consistent podium finishes across multiple categories, the Army successfully defended its Inter-Service title, outperforming both the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy in a tightly contested tournament.

The event at Fox Lines was marked by high spirits, sportsmanship, and a shared commitment to excellence. Spectators and fellow service members cheered on competitors, creating an atmosphere of unity and pride. The championships also served as a vital opportunity for athletes to qualify for the National Teams Championships held later in the year and international

competitions, furthering the development of Judo within the UK Armed Forces.

RLC Judo continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of its athletes, coaches, and support staff. The success at Aldershot underscores the importance of sport in fostering discipline, resilience, and teamwork—core values of military life.

As the dust settles on another thrilling edition of the UK Armed Forces Judo Championships, The RLC can celebrate not only its medal haul but also the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines the event. With champions like Sgt Stanley, Cpl Sprake, and SSgt Harper leading the charge, the future of RLC Judo looks brighter than ever.

8 SSgt Harper, Sgt Stanley and Cpl Sprake with their UKAF Championships medal haul

Where Exceptional Education Meets Outstanding Opportunities

At the Duke of York’s Royal Military School (DOYRMS), students benefit from an all-round education set within 150 acres of stunning Kentish parkland, combining academic excellence, enriching opportunities, and outstanding pastoral care. For eligible Forces families receiving the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA), this exceptional boarding experience is available at just £592 per term.

The school goes beyond academic achievement to nurture confident, capable young people. From the moment you step onto the campus, the school’s emphasis on care and wellbeing is clear. A dedicated pastoral team, including Houseparents, academic tutors, and matrons, ensures students feel secure, supported, and part of a caring community.

This nurturing environment helps students thrive academically. DOYRMS has been recognised with two SSAT Educational Outcomes Awards and is ranked in the top 5% of schools nationally for consistently exceeds national GCSE progress benchmarks. Small class sizes and a commitment to developing leadership and life skills ensure each student receives individual attention and grows into a well-rounded young adult.

school’s facilities reflect its ambition: a £24.9 million refurbishment delivered modern learning environments, an Olympic-standard athletics track, and a cutting-edge sports centre. Beyond the classroom, students engage in a wide range of activities that promote courage and loyalty –values rooted in the school’s proud military heritage.

More than 200 students from Forces families attend DOYRMS, forming close bonds within a structured House system. The school remains open during exeat weekends for those who wish to stay, and reliable Wi-Fi access ensures regular contact with family, helping to create a true home-from-home environment.

With strong pastoral support, academic excellence, and a focus on character development, DOYRMS prepares students for impressive futures - whether that’s a place at a Russell Group or Oxbridge university (where 40% of students obtained places), a professional apprenticeship, or direct entry into a chosen career.

Visit www.doyrms.com to arrange a private tour or register for one of the school’s regular open mornings and discover why DOYRMS is where exceptional education meets outstanding opportunities.

The

RLC Polo

Between 25 Apr and 2 May 25, the RLC Polo team returned to the renowned Jurassic Park Polo Academy in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, run by Selby Williamson. Selby, who coaches several British Army regiments and international players, provided expert training and top-quality horses to prepare the team for the upcoming UK season, which is now underway.

The journey took the team from Heathrow to Johannesburg, then Pietermaritzburg, followed by a scenic two-hour drive to the farm near the Drakensberg mountains. Accommodation was in various farm cottages, with communal meals offering great networking opportunities with other guests. Training began with fundamentals using ‘wooden horses’ to refine swing technique dismounted, followed by daily stick-and-ball sessions and chukkas actually on the horses. Playing alongside higherhandicapped players really helped elevate the team’s tactical awareness and cohesion.

A highlight was competing in the local Championships at the nearby Zwartberg Polo Club. Despite a fast-paced start from the home team, The RLC rallied to draw 4–4 in a thrilling, high-quality match showcasing teamwork and resilience.

The RLC Polo team extends sincere thanks to Jurassic Park Polo Academy for its outstanding hospitality and support, which played a vital role in the team’s development.

The trip to South Africa helped the team prepare for the RA Cup on 26 May 25 where they kicked off the grass season at a rainy Tedworth Park Polo Club, competing in Division 2 against the RA Veterans. Despite it being the team’s first match together since Africa, it was able to draw on the training from Jurassic Park and quickly found rhythm. Capt Christiansen scored the opening goal in Chukka 2, followed by a second in Chukka 3 following a

8 In SA daily mounted stick and ball sessions and practice chukkas with more experienced players elevated the team’s game

strong setup by Maj Prescott. Throughout the first three chukkas, the pace was fast and energy high on both sides.

Though the RA Veterans rallied in the final chukka to level the score, the match was awarded to The RLC after a decision by Lt Col (Retd) Simon Ledger, in recognition of their teamwork and skill. Thanks to the RA Polo Club for hosting a fantastic event.

For anyone interested in joining

the RLC Polo team, please follow ‘RLC Equestrian Polo’ on the RLC APP and get in touch with Capt Henry Christiansen or Lt Col Lucy Anderson. We are always looking for new players to join our sport.

8 The Team in South Africa: Capt Christiansen, Lt Col Anderson MBE, Maj Hemsworth

8 ‘Wooden horses’ were used to refine the player’s swing and stick techniques

The RLC Sports

The RLC Sports Awards took place on the evening of Friday 18 July 2025 in the Worthy Down Officers’ Mess. With over 280 in attendance and entertainment provided by the RLC Corps of Drums and the band of the Royal Army Medical Service, it was a celebration of the sporting excellence that The Royal Logistic Corps is renowned for.

We would like to thank the Army Sport and the following sponsors for supporting RLC sport and making the glittering evening that is the Sports Awards possible: Agility Defence and Government Services, Akhter Computers Ltd, Briggs Defence, Edwin Doran Sports Tours, J&K Financial Solutions, KBR Fastrax Logistics, Motif8 Embroidery & Print Ltd, Pearson, Peli Products Ltd, Silver Lady, Squarcle, Warrior Assault Systems, Wye Valley Tyres.

Congratulations to the winners and all the runners up.

Images: Sgt Cameron Eden RLC Media

s Awards 2025

Category Winners

Sports Team of the Year - RLC Netball

Sports Coach of the Year - Cpl Kerry Keane

Sports Official of the Year - WO2 Abi Lang

Young Sportswoman of the Year (Presented by Lt Kerenza Bryson 2024 Olympic Modern Pentathlete) - Pte India King

Young Sportsman of the Year - Pte Ollie Welsh

Sportswoman of the Year - Sgt Becky Wilson

Sportsman of the Year - Capt Richie Cann

Outstanding Achievement Awards - Cpl Paige Atwell & RLC Aquatics (two-way cross channel relay)

Sporting Ethos - Lt Ella Bromley

Lifetime Achievement Awards: Maj Nigel Prescott, SSgt Joe Baker, Maj Richard Barrett

Pioneer Spirit Award (Best Unit) - 165 Regt RLC

Hemming Belt (Best Boxer) - Pte Kieran Cooper

Sports Personality of the Year - Pte Ollie Welsh

By Lt Nathan Yates

Earlier this year, seven members of the RLC Parachute Team – The Silver Stars - took to the skies once again during an Overseas Sports Visit (OSV) to Skydive Spain, in Seville. After conducting essential refresher training at the Army Parachute Association, Netheravon, the team deployed to Seville for two weeks of skill development, currency training and personal progression.

The team represented a rich cross-section of RLC Regular and Reserve personnel. This unique blend of experience – ranging from 50 jumps to over 6,000 – generated an environment of both mentorship and mutual learning, bringing together newcomers and seasoned parachutists alike.

A focus on core skills and new horizons

The primary objective of the OSV was to maintain currency and competence across the full spectrum of military sport parachuting disciplines. With an emphasis on developing the precision and professionalism required in several activities, the team clocked up more than 150 parachute descents from altitudes between 5,000 and 13,000 feet. Each jump offered an opportunity to master different aspects of the sport:

• Formation Skydiving (FS) saw team members linking together in freefall, building pre-determined shapes mid-air at terminal velocity.

• Tracking allowed jumpers to move horizontally at speed during freefall.

• Canopy Training enhanced control and precision once under the parachute, an essential skill for safe and accurate landings.

A standout highlight of the trip was the team’s Canopy Relative Work (CRW). CRW involves two or more parachutists flying their canopies in close proximity and docking onto each other’s parachutes, forming dynamic formations in midair. Unlike the high-speed freefall formations of FS, CRW is conducted after parachute deployment and demands exceptional precision, communication, and trust.

Sports Parachuting

The Silver Stars: Inspiring the next generation of RLC Skydivers

A new mission: Building the future

While public displays have long been a proud tradition of the team, it has shifted focus this year. Our efforts are now fully dedicated to inspiring, nurturing, and developing current and future talent within the military sport parachuting sphere.

The OSV to Seville marked a decisive step toward that future –developing soldiers and officers not only as parachutists but as leaders, coaches, and mentors within the military sport parachuting community. The goal is to create a sustainable pathway for Regular and Reserve personnel within the Corps to experience the unique challenges and rewards that sport parachuting offers.

Why

get involved?

Military sport parachuting is much more than an adrenaline rush. It cultivates resilience, sharpens

decision-making under pressure, and builds a level of teamwork and trust few other activities can match. It demands a blend of physical fitness, mental agility, technical skill, and mutual support.

Come fly with us

As we look ahead, we are actively seeking new members who are ready to take on the challenge. Whether you are an experienced jumper or new to the world of skydiving, there is a place for you on the team. With access to coaching, development pathways, and opportunities to refine your skills at some of the best drop zones in the UK and abroad, your next great adventure could start with a single step out of an aircraft into the sky.

For more information

Lt Nathan Yates (nathan.yates102@mod.gov.uk)

8 CRW was practised during the OSV to Seville

8 Come fly with us!

RLC Enduro

Motorcyles and Defence Engagement in France

Having successfully completed an Overseas Sports Visit (OSV) in 2019, it was once again time for the RLC Motorcycle Enduro team to deploy to France on a nine day OSV, using the opportunity to not only train and improve our riding skills on the bespoke 50 hectare site East of Toulouse; but also meet with our friends from the French Army, maintaining the strong relationship started five years previously.

Collecting the bikes and riders from across the UK, the team met in Tidworth to secure the kit and finalise any administration, before heading off to the Eurotunnel in Folkestone. When in France we successfully navigated Paris in the silent hours, then headed South. After hours of tolls, autoroutes, fuel stops and service station food we arrived in the South of France to rain! Once unloaded half the team prepared the bikes whilst the others travelled ten minutes down the road to the local town, to stock up for the week with supplies. With the administration complete and bikes prepared, we settled into our rustic country home for the night, ready for the week of riding ahead.

The next day we started to recce the massive Royal Hills site, working out where the numerous riding routes and tracks went, and confirming what they offered for our experienced riders, on the multitude of bikes brought over

from the UK. Once familiar with the site, the team was well prepared to execute its rider training development plan for the following six days, bringing on and improving the collective skills of all riders. Whilst riding the Royal Hills we also came across a team from Strak Future electric bikes, who were based at the track for a few days filming an advert for one of their new electric Enduro bikes. Our team jumped at the opportunity to ride one of their bikes for the day, getting to experience the instant torque and silent running of the bikes, but also having to contend with the reduced range and planning the recharge times. A great experience for the riders, enabling them to weigh up the pros and cons of electric bikes, over our more traditional two and fourstroke machines, firsthand.

On day three of our time in Realmont, the RLC team also took the opportunity to build upon the friendship with one of our closest NATO friends and Allies, the French Army. Having collected Lt Col Lionel Rochel, a French logistic officer from Toulouse, we introduced him

to the bikes, the riders and fitted him up for the next few days of riding. Lt Col Rochel has a similar passion for all things two wheels but spends much of his time riding on the roads, so the next few days on the Enduro routes and Motorcross tracks were a real eye opener for him, but one he loved.

With the week of rider training and Defence engagement successfully completed, with no injuries, the teams cleaned and repaired the bikes, loaded up and headed back to the UK ready for the new UK Enduro season to begin. All involved had an incredible time in France, building up their skill set, technical ability and physical stamina.

The RLC Motorcycle Enduro team would like to take this opportunity to thank RHQ The RLC for enabling this OSV, as well as providing its continued support to the team throughout the year. We look forward to deploying overseas again in five years’ time.

8 French logistics officer Lt Col Lionel Rochel (right) joined the team at Royal Hills

8 The training camp in France has prepared the Enduro team for the 2025 season

RLC Hockey

tour to Holland

By Sgt Andy Harvey and Pte Cai Strawbridge RLC Hockey

Grass roots sport is so important to the Army. Fitness, team building, and competition are just some of the benefits that sport provides. It is for these reasons that the RLC Hockey Club is promoting and developing the sport, trying to show the opportunities that playing it for the Corps can provide. The plan… A long weekend in the Netherlands for our developing players to train, team-build, and watch the elite of European clubs battle it out in both the men’s and women’s European Hockey League championship finals!

The recent RLC Hockey trip provided a blend of sporting excitement, cultural enrichment, and skill development for participants of varying experience levels. The highlight of the tour was attending the European Hockey League finals, where players witnessed Europe’s top clubs battle it out for the prestigious title. The fast-paced, high-skill matches provided valuable insights into elite-level hockey, inspiring developing players with top-tier performances and tactical play. A much larger-supported sport in the

8 Cpl Mandidzinga with elite hockey player Ambre Ballenghien at the European finals

Netherlands compared to the UK, the huge hockey crowds were new to most people used to watching the sport in the UK. The passion exhibited by fans coming together from across Europe for the competition was truly impressive, a real carnival experience!

A day dedicated to training proved to be a valuable learning

8 The RLC Hockey squad following training in Holland

opportunity for all participants. A professionally led training session at a renowned Dutch hockey facility, the mix of beginners and experienced players allowed for a dynamic exchange of skills and knowledge. The players engaged in drills focusing on technique, positioning and game awareness, and the session provided a unique opportunity to take what we had learned from the elite hockey we watched and try to replicate it ourselves on the field.

The short tour also included a day visit to Arnhem, a city of great military significance. Arnhem was the site of the famous WWII Battle of Arnhem, part of Operation Market Garden. The team visited key locations such as the John Frost Bridge and local war museums, learning about the bravery and sacrifice of Allied soldiers, and giving us perspective of our own experiences as soldiers. It was a powerful reminder of shared history and the enduring bond between nations.

Overall, the trip was inspiring both on and off the field… An example of the camaraderie within the RLC Hockey community and hopefully developing players for future successes on the pitch! A resounding success, plans are already underway to replicate this trip at next year’s European championships.

8 The squad took time to visit the WWII Arnhem battlefields

1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BICESTER

CO: Lt Col D Harrison • Adjt: Capt F Copland • RSM: WO1 A Wardle

Project Tyr: Forging the future of logistic warfighting.

1 Regiment RLC has launched Project Tyr. It is a bold and uncompromising commitment to mastering the demands of highintensity warfighting; born from the hard-earned lessons of recent conflicts. The project is an ‘All-In’, whole-force transformation aimed squarely at sharpening our lethality and operational edge.

At its core, Project Tyr is about readiness. We’re rebuilding our corporate knowledge, rigorously testing our vehicles and equipment, and rewriting our SOPs to reflect the brutal realities of modern combat. This is about more than preparation, it’s about dominance. We are preparing to fight and win on the transparent battlefield, where every move is seen, and every second counts. We’re embedding constant Counter-ISR tactics, adapting to the ever-present threat of UAS and UXO, and drilling relentlessly to deliver life-saving traumatic casualty care under fire. By January 2026, 1 Regt will stand ready to meet these challenges head-on. Project Tyr is a living initiative: we will continue to evolve, adapt, and lead the way in the fight of tomorrow.

23 Sqn - Ex BULL STORM

1 Regt deployed a composite Log Sqn led by 23 Sqn to support Ex BULL STORM at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK). The Sqn provided Log Support, including in the field, in support of 11 Brigade. This support has been delivered using a fleet of 15T MAN SV and EPLS vehicles, while the Logistic Supply Specialists (LSS) team worked tirelessly in camp to ensure demands were met accurately and on time. Operating in sub-Saharan Africa presented unique challenges for the soldiers. To protect their kit from potentially dangerous or acquisitive local wildlife, they slept with all their equipment inside their mosquito nets. When nets weren’t

available, troops had to rigorously shake out their kit each morning to avoid nasty surprises!

Initially, the Sqn supported 3 SCOTS and 1 Royal Anglian during their LFTT phase. This involved demanding 16-to-20-hour resupply round trips, with at least one convoy departing daily. Upon completing this phase, the focus shifted to supporting exercising troops in the field.

In the field, the Sqn adopted a new tactical posture, operating three dispersed, multi-functional logistic nodes rather than the traditional single-function setup. These nodes, operated at Troopminus level, not only reducing their footprint and enhancing survivability but markedly overhauled what a Brigade Support Group looks like.

To further adapt to the demands of peer-on-peer warfare, where artillery poses a primary threat, the Sqn rehearsed and refined innovative concepts. They

minimised time spent out of cover by employing ‘vehicle exchange’ Distribution Points (DP) and dead drops for stores. Over the course of the exercise, they reduced time on the ground in the conduct of a DP from over 45 minutes to under 5, significantly improving survivability and operational efficiency.

After an intensive and rewarding eight weeks of training, the soldiers embraced a variety of adventurous training (AT) packages. From abseiling down waterfalls and braving the infamous ‘Devil’s Toilet’ to honing bushcraft skills with a Maasai Warrior. Opportunities that few locations can rival. Beyond the adrenaline-fuelled activities, the soldiers also engaged with the local community through meaningful outreach projects. In their downtime, they explored the bustling town of Nanyuki and embarked on unforgettable safaris, making the most of their time overseas.

1 Regt efforts on Ex BULL STORM demonstrate its adaptability and commitment to supporting operational success in challenging environments.

8 Battlegroup support involved daily 16-hour resupply convoys

8 Sub-Saharan Africa presented unique challenges and experiences for the soldiers

4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON

CO: Lt Col M Brown • Adjt: Capt C Nottage • RSM: WO1 A Smith

Op CABRIT 16

4 (Close Support) Squadron, 4 Regiment RLC, has deployed on Op CABRIT 16 as the lead sub-unit for the Forward Land Forces (Estonia) Theatre Support Squadron. The Sqn is a 150-strong multi-cap badge Sqn responsible for providing 2nd line CSS to the Forward Land Forces (FLF) Battlegroup and any other UK force elements inside the wider JOA. The TSS is a sovereign UK asset which is often also called upon to support our NATO Allies operating in Estonia. Its broad suite of capabilities includes a Fuel and General Transport Troop, a Supply Troop, a Heavy Equipment Transporter (HET) Troop, an RMP detachment, an Equipment Support (ES) Platoon and an Operational CIS troop.

The TSS has been instrumental in supporting two exercises in the first half of the tour, Ex BOLD EAGLE 1 (Ex BE1) and Ex HEDGEHOG (Ex HH). Supply Troop has been a key enabler to all activity for the BG and wider UK assets, innovating working practices to streamline efficiency. ES Pl (from 4 REME) has also been key in supporting BG and TSS vehicle readiness before, during and after deployments. The Sqn has also had some fantastic WARDEV and experimentation take place between the BG A1 Echelon and F&GT Troop as we adjust our

TTPs to the contemporary operating environment. Meanwhile the HET Troop has driven thousands of safe kilometres to INLOAD and OUTLOAD armoured vehicles of both the BG and our partner nations.

The main event was Ex HH, a large multinational exercise which saw NATO partners training together to test and rehearse the National Military Defence Plan (NMDP) for Estonia. This saw the FLF Brigade deploy from the UK to train alongside Op CABRIT force elements. It was a highly successful exercise which successfully demonstrated the UK’s ability to execute its part in the NMDP. Support from all TSS capabilities was crucial to operational success, including CPERS and convoy support from the RMP, J6 support from the CIS troop at a multinational divisional level, HET movements across the JOA, forward repair from the ES Platoon, suppliers ensuring materiel was available to support the fight, as well as F&GT Troop sustaining the fight directly by executing new and innovative practices with the A1 Echelon.

It has been a thoroughly rewarding and professionally fulfilling tour thus far. The TSS is looking forward to providing further CSS to the JOA as well as exploiting its own training activities.

8 The Op CABRIT 16 Theatre Support Squadron

JCCC Burials

4 Regt was deeply honoured to be offered the opportunity to take the lead in conducting two burials of six unknown Commonwealth soldiers from the Great War. Padre J Roberts and a bearer party, led by SSgt M Daniels AGC(SPS), travelled to France on the 28 Apr 25 to carry out the services.

The burials took place at Ovillers and Loos Cemetery. The remains that had been uncovered were found in locations that would have seen action during the opening days of the Somme offensive in 1916, the Second Battle of Bapaume in 1918, the Battle of Arras in 1917, the Battle of Loos in September 1915, and potentially the Hundred Days Offensive in October 1918.

107 years on, British and Commonwealth soldiers’ remains are still being uncovered across France and Belgium, predominantly found with no artefacts to help identify them. The incredible investigatory work the team at JCCC does, ensures that those found are laid to rest alongside their comrades, who made the ultimate sacrifice.

It was a great privilege to pay tribute to our fallen comrades and ensure that they were laid to rest in a dignified manner.

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

DISHFORTH

CO:

Lt Col J Lockett • Adjt: Capt O Pearman • RSM: WO2 D McQuillan

Throughout the summer, 6 Regiment RLC has maintained a busy tempo across exercises, training, and sport. The Regt’s hangars have been filled with a full complement of vehicles; the LAD is fully engaged in maintaining the fleet to ensure maintained readiness for the Allied Reaction Force and other upcoming commitments.

Readiness

Over the past eighteen months, 6 Regt has maintained R1 readiness under the Allied Reaction Force, demonstrating our capability to deploy at short notice and to develop multinational interoperability. Overall, our commitment to ARF has amounted to over 469,894 miles driven over the past 18 months, and 177,335 miles since the New Year alone. During the period the Regt has been held at R1, collectively our vehicles have circumnavigated the Earth 19 times!

Training

Throughout May and June, 64, 62, and 32 Sqns have conducted field training exercises to maintain readiness and prepare for upcoming deployments. Conscious of the threat from UAVs, countering the increasing threat from drones has been built into this training throughout, as well as building on key logistic capabilities.

Deployments

62 Sqn is currently preparing to assume responsibility for the Handling and Processing Unit (HAP UK) in South Cerney as part of the RLC’s contribution to Op INTERFLEX. Simultaneously, 32 Sqn is undergoing final preparations for its deployment to Kenya on Ex HARAKA STORM.

Visits

6 Regt hosted the Colonel RLC and the Corps Sergeant Major, updating on current activity, and the achievement of soldiers across the

Regt. While at Dishforth, the Corps Col presented numerous Long Service & Good Conduct medals, recognising our personnel’s service, and their family support.

Subsequently, the Regt was visited by Commander 102 Brigade, Brig Geary OBE, whose visit included presenting Master General of Logistics Commendations to the Army Supply Training Facility, recognising its contribution to activity across Defence.

Sport

6 Regt has continued to perform admirably in sport. In Sport Climbing, a newly established, junior-led climbing team started strong, achieving first place in all categories at the RLC Corps Climbing Competition. Rugby remains a strength, with recent

fixtures against 17 P&M Regt, 9 Regt, and Ripon RUFC as part of the Briggs Cup. Not only this, five members of 6 Regt RLC have represented the Army Women’s Rugby League Team winning both matches to-date, by a margin of 34-4 and 72-0. The football team also delivered an excellent season, winning the Army North Division 2 League following several competitive matches.

Regimental Shooting Team

The Regt recently participated in both the Corps Operational Shooting Competition and the 1 (UK) Division Operational Shooting Competition. These events highlighted the Regt’s regular investment in our marksmanship abilities and operational effectiveness. The shooting team took part in a training package held at Altcar Ranges where they were able to familiarise themselves for the first time with the L85A3 and Glock 17 Pistol.

The Regt’s NATO commitments have been challenging yet immensely rewarding and have seen the Regt deploy to both Poland on Op LINOTYPER and Romania on Ex STEADFAST DART.

8 The 6 Regt members of the Army Women’s Rugby League Team

8 The 6 Regt RLC Shooting Team getting hands-on practice with the General Service Pistol

7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

ABINGDON

CO: Lt Col JC Corbett MBE • Adjt: Capt B Wray • RSM: WO1 R Booth

The last term has been exceptionally busy for 7 Regiment RLC, marked by a redeployment from Romania following Ex STEADFAST DART and a shift from being held at readiness for the Allied Reaction Force to the Follow-on Land Forces (FLF). Despite these demands, the Regt has maintained its readiness whilst continuing to conduct exercises, Adventurous Training (AT) and sport.

9 Fuel and GT Squadron continued its pivotal role in fielding and training the Army’s new Palletised Loading Systems (PLS). With 28 vehicles received and hundreds of drivers trained across Defence, LCpl Sole deserves special recognition for personally training over 200 Service Personnel. This injection of 28 PLS vehicles represents a significant leap in the Regt’s ability to deliver logistics over greater distances, enhancing Divisional fighting power. Simultaneously, 9 Sqn deployed on Ex TIGER IGNITE to trial innovative fuel storage solutions. Capt Kyle Franklin, supported by HQ 102OSB, navigated policy and compliance frameworks to enable indoor and dispersed fuel equipment testing… A Defence first. This pioneering work is set to reshape fuel training and bolster the Regt’s technical resilience in support of multi-domain operations.

In July 17 Fuel and GT Squadron led Ex LETHAL ORZEL 2, focusing on Dummy, Deception Camouflage and Concealment (D2C2) techniques to enhance survivability. Over 100 personnel from 17, 68, and 617 Sqns deployed to Bovington’s self-sufficiently building, living in and operating out of cubshelters, whilst also trailing a range of CAPSTONE Projects for Defence. The exercise was immensely successful, showcasing the Regt’s ability to innovate under tough conditions and learning to adapt to emerging threats. The integration of D2C2 techniques with experimental technologies provided valuable

insights for future operational planning, while the collaborative efforts across squadrons reinforced interoperability and tactical cohesion. The lessons learned will directly inform future training and doctrine development.

Behind the scenes, 68 Squadron worked diligently to close legacy UINs from Op TRENTON. This complex and meticulous task involved reconciling years of financial records, verifying asset locations, and ensuring that all publicly funded activities were accurately accounted for. The Sqn’s efforts not only upheld Defence’s commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility but also demonstrated exceptional attention to detail and perseverance in navigating administrative challenges. Work culminated in March with a remarkable £26 million in Defence expenditure formally written off.

In May, 44 personnel deployed to Val Thorens for Ex SNOW ORZEL, completing five SF1 and one SF2 ski

groups. June saw two more AT trips to Cyprus and Malta where they took part in mountain biking, rock climbing and diving. Over 100 personnel from across the Regiment have participated in AT since April. On the sporting front, 7 Regt has done exceptionally well, finishing second in the Army Football 6’shighlighted by Pte Reed’s impressive 19 goals in nine matches. The Regt’s Female Athletics Team also shone, securing second place out of 13 teams at the UK South Athletics Championships. The Regt has also competed in BAMA eventsEx SALAMANCA SPEEDRUN, Ex ROADMASTER - and the Nijmegen Marches. Additionally, the Regt has spearheaded Corps Drone Racing, with Lt James Finch driving the establishment of the Corps Drone Racing Centre of Excellence.

Looking ahead, 7 Regt remains poised and prepared to meet its FLF commitments. 9 Sqn is set to deploy on Op LAZURITE, while 17 Sqn will take part in Ex PINION TITAN, supported by key elements from 68 and 617 Sqns. With a strong foundation of operational success and professional excellence, the Regt enters the next term with confidence, ready to sustain its momentum and deliver across all domains.

8 7 RLC Female Athletics Team, with an outstanding 2nd in the UK South Athletics Champs

8 Commanding Officer and Regimental 2IC receiving an Ops Brief in a CUB Shelter, Ex LETHAL ORZEL 2

10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment

ALDERSHOT

COMMANDER: Lt Col O Nyman • Adjt: Capt H Ziegler • RSM: WO1 T Limbu

New ways of working –

By 2Lt Max Hunt

Between late April and early June 2025, 10 The Queen's Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment deployed on Ex HEDGEHOG 25 (Ex HH), a major NATO validation and rehearsal of Estonia’s National Defence Plan. Operating as part of the Forward Land Forces (FLF), 10 QOGLR commanded the CSS Group for 4th Light Brigade, integrating elements from 28 F&GT Sqn, 1 LSS Sqn, 4 Coy REME, and 22 MMR. The exercise tested FLF against a live enemy and showcased 10 QOGLR’s adaptability and innovation. Two key developments emerged.

As part of Project ASGUARD, the CSS Group trialled DDS –Android handsets mounted on body armour or carried by personne –running the Android Tactical Awareness Kit (ATAK). This system provided real-time mapping, friendly force tracking, threat alerts, and mission overlays. ATAK’s secure chat enabled rapid, decentralised communication and enhanced command and control. This lightweight, intuitive tool has the potential to transform how mounted CSS elements operate. 10 QOGLR has since bid for a significant number of ATAKenabled DDS, aligning with the Chief of the General Staff’s vision for software-enabled lethality.

In a logistical twist, the Regt was tasked with transporting ‘defensive stores’ that turned out to be two lorry loads of 30ft trees rather than the expected ISO containers. Undeterred, 10 QOGLR used an industrial sawmill to process the timber into manageable sections,

8 10 QOGLR used an industrial power saw to convert trees into trench revetments

which were then loaded onto EPLS flat racks and delivered to MDA positions. This timber was crucial for constructing trench systems for three Battlegroups, requiring six EPLS platforms over four days. The hardened positions proved effective during the FTX phase, withstanding attacks from numerically superior OPFOR.

8 28 F&GT Sqn in Estonia

Estonia’s forested terrain made this a valuable lesson in using local materials for defensive construction –an approach that could be vital in future operations.

Ex HEDGEHOG 25 marked a milestone for 10 QOGLR, reinforcing its reputation for operational excellence and forward-thinking. By embracing cutting-edge digital tools and demonstrating ingenuity in overcoming logistical challenges, the Regt not only fulfilled its mission but also set a benchmark for future NATO operations. The lessons learned will continue to shape its role within the FLF and NATO’s collective defence.

New ways of working on Ex WARFIGHTER, Texas, USA, saw 34 Tp, 1 Sqn, principally conserving energy and workforce. Its initial ORBAT was a conventional three sections, however, workload only required 10-12 pax at any one time. Thinking tactically, they changed the ORBAT from three to two sections, with one on duty as normal, the other on 48 hours rest, both rotating accordingly. The greatest success of this was to give sections ample time to recuperate and enjoy Texas. Ex WARFIGHTER was an efficient and significant success because of this new way of working.

11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Regiment RLC

DIDCOT

CO: Lt Col R Swan • Adjt: Capt A Hunter • RSM: WO1 K Butler

11 EOD&S Regiment RLC

continues to provide bespoke ammunition technical support to wider Army units, operations or exercises at home and abroad, in addition to EOD STTTs supporting international partners. During March – June of 2025 the Regt has deployed 36 service personnel to 15 countries, providing AT/EOD support and assurance activity to deployed formations. Headlines include Ex WARFIGHTER, Ex BULLSTORM and several EOD and Search STTTs to Ghana.

This is in addition to the 12 SP deployed on enduring operations across the globe such supporting Op CABRIT, INTERLINK and SHADER. Within the UK, the Regt has provided AT support to 16 UK-based activities, including Ex WESSEX STORM 1/25 conducting GMAT, safe-to-move inspections, logistic disposals, assisting with weapon trails and producing field-storage licenses.

Ex FELIX MORALIS –

A battlefield study to Berlin

By Sgt R Swindells Chester Tp 521 EOD Sqn

Personnel from across 11 EOD&S Regt came together to conduct a battlefield study in Berlin across a four-day period. The aim was to discuss the morality and ethics around historical events in Berlin during WW2 up until the Cold War, covering challenging topics such as forced labour/slavery, mass extinction, human experimentation, eugenics and racism, including antisemitism. Visiting various locations across Berlin, participants discussed the morality of war, challenging each other’s views, with agreements and disagreements. The engagement from all personnel contributed to an all-round successful study.

The good weather played its part for the first couple of days by providing a brilliant setting for the group to get 20,000 steps in each day visiting the various locations,

including full use of Berlin’s sometimes confusing but efficient train network. However, an unexpected train strike towards the end of the study hampered transport plans: a common occurrence in Britain we must have been inadvertently exported. The good weather didn’t hold out though, and a gloomy day added to the cold atmosphere during a visit to Sachsenhausen concentration camp. An interesting visit and learning about the atrocities that took place there was an eye opener for all. A memorial and museum now stand there for all to see, remembering those that suffered.

The group was broken down into pairs to deliver back briefs for each location, covering a general overview of the event and tasked with answering questions designed to get the group thinking about the ethical/non-ethical aspects behind various events, whilst providing an opportunity to discuss how can we relate historical case studies to the manner we conduct ourselves as land forces today. Challenging views in an open and respectful environment was encouraged and this led to brilliant discussions, some could have gone on for hours, however more of Berlin needed to be seen.

Locations visited included the Nazi book burning memorial, the Brandenburg Gate, a Flak Tower,

8 The 11 EOD&S

the Berlin Victory Column, the Reichstag, the Resistance Museum, Hitlers bunker and the Holocaust Memorial. Here the 11 EOD&S Regt Padre delivered a service of remembrance. The groups also covered topics such as attempted assassinations against Hitler, including the ‘Stauffenberg plot’ and the consequences of such plots. As the study progressed towards the Cold War, sites included the Berlin Wall, the ‘Soldier jumping the wall’ and Checkpoint Charlie.

Analysing the impact of the Berlin wall generated significant discussion with many SPs highlighting that something that seems so alien - encircling half of a capital city with a wall - was in fact not that long ago in our history. The decisions made by the border guards could have escalated the situation into a nuclear war, changing life as would know it today.

A successful study to a beautiful city steeped in history, not to mention the German delicacies, with the word ‘currywurst’ mentioned more often than not. Thoroughly enjoyed by the whole group, a battlefield study to Berlin is highly recommended to the wider Corps.

Regt group near the Brandenburg Gate

13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER

CO: Lt Col P Chapman • Adjt: Capt S Cator • RSM: WO1 S Jones

Honouring tradition

Between April and June, 15 Squadron proudly served as the Public Duty Reinforcement Company, supporting the London Central Garrison by carrying out ceremonial duties at Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, Windsor Castle, and the Tower of London. Looking ahead, the Sqn is preparing to deploy on a NATO-led exercise in Germany which is a great opportunity to enhance operational capabilities and strengthen international partnerships.

International collaboration

47 Air Despatch Squadron’s training wing recently welcomed a team from Oman on Short-Term Training Team (STTT) from the 28 Apr to 2 May. The twelve personnel from the Sultan’s Special Forces, the Sultan of Oman’s Parachute Regiment, and the Royal Air Force of Oman completed a bespoke DZNCO course as part on ongoing STTT training with Oman. This visit built on a previous deployment to Oman earlier this year, reinforcing the strong and growing collaboration between our forces.

Ex BULLSTORM

8 Parachute Field Company REME has deployed to Kenya on Exercise BULLSTORM 25, supporting 11 Bde as it transitions from a Security Force Assistance Brigade to fullscale warfighting under the direction of the Commander Field Army. The unit is delivering vital second-line Equipment Support while adapting to modern battlefield challenges, including drone threats, through advanced camouflage and concealment training.

Beyond the battlefield, the team made a meaningful impact at Tharau Special School in Laikipia County, helping construct a new dormitory for children with disabilities and organising a football match to promote inclusivity and foster community spirit. They plan to return to deliver care packages containing toys and

8 An Omani Air Force officer presents a plaque to 47 AD Sqn during the STTT

clothing. The deployment concluded with adventurous training at Savage Wilderness, featuring white-water rafting, archery, climbing, and kayaking, providing both physical challenges and team-building experiences.

Ex VENTURE SPIRIT

Personnel from 24 (HQ) Squadron and 63 Squadron, as part of the Lead Company Group (LAF Ech), have been deployed on Ex VENTURE SPIRIT 25-1. The exercise included rapid air landings

8 Members of 13 AASR execute a rapid airlanding during Ex VENTURE SPIRIT

at Leuchars Airfield, the establishment of long-range communications, and airmobile operations from Wattisham Airfield. These activities have been crucial in refining operational readiness and enhancing their ability to execute rapid deployment missions effectively.

Celebrating our families

On the 29 Mar 25 Colchester hosted a special day for Officers’ Mess families, offering a hands-on look at the life and responsibilities of the Regt. Activities included shooting, cross-country driving, ration tasting, vehicle demonstrations and capability briefs. It was followed by an evening that featured a live pianist, a three-course meal, and a performance by the 15 Sqn Kukri dancers.

At RAF Brize Norton, families enjoyed a fun-filled open day with face painting, a BBQ, and a bouncy castle. Highlights included a demonstration of 47 Sqn’s capabilities and a guided tour of the newly refurbished Dakota aircraft. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and showcase the pride we take in our work.

Looking ahead

47 AD Sqn is pleased to announce that Riggers from the US 82nd Airborne Division will be conducting training at RAF Brize Norton, consisting of rigging, flying, and Drop Zone operations. This builds on the already strong connection between Air Despatchers and Riggers, which will hopefully see continued integration and interoperability opportunities.

Promotions

A huge congratulations to the 17 outstanding individuals from 13 AASR selected for promotion to Staff Sergeant. We wish you continued success in your new roles.

‘Always ready, 13 AASR enables 16 AA BCT to be first to the fight and win’

25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

LECONFIELD

CO: Lt Col D Cornwell • Adjt: Capt E Lelliott-Moore • RSM: WO1 T Jones

British Army Warrior Fitness: Pushing Soldiers to Their Limits

The British Army Warrior Fitness (BAWF) competition stands as a testament to the dedication and physical prowess of soldiers within the British Army. More than just a fitness test, BAWF is a challenging competition designed to push participants to their limits, fostering a culture of peak physical readiness relevant to the demands of military operations. Structured in accordance with the Army's physical training guidelines (AGAI Vol 1 Ch 7) and a direct output of PROGRAMME THOR, BAWF incorporates varied exercises that enhance the fitness components crucial for operational effectiveness and long-term health.

BAWF events often feature a series of workouts, released periodically and demanding a blend of strength, endurance, and agility. These workouts can range from rowing and burpees to more complex exercises like deadlifts, clean and jerks, and demanding runs. The competition embraces inclusivity, with categories for individual men and women, masters (older age groups), and various team configurations. It is well documented that team orientated sports like BAWF build and promote leadership, discipline, resilience and confidence. Furthermore, the competitive element provides a prime opportunity to professionally network, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

This year's 24/25 UK North competition has seen exceptional performances from teams representing 25 Regiment RLC and the Defence School of Transport.

The Male Masters team - WO2 Hillary, WO2 Moody, Sgt Mars (team captain), Cpl Graham, Cpl Harris and Cpl Middletonconsistently demonstrated their fitness and determination. They secured three out of the four podium finishes across all events and qualified for the Army finals in

June. Testament to their hard work and dedication they impressed throughout the Army Finals, securing a third-place finish in the Army finals overall.

The newly formed female teamCapt Lucas, SSgt Armstrong (team captain), Cpl Artwell, Cpl Howlett

and LCpl Bastian - is also making waves in the BAWF competitive arena. Showcasing teamwork and their physical fitness, they secured their first podium in the UK north competition. Unfortunately, they marginally missed out on qualifying for the Army finals. However, far from discouraged and determined, they are building upon their successes in UK North competition to qualify for the Army finals in 2026.

BAWF is more than just a competition; it is a reflection of the British Army's commitment to maintaining a force that is physically robust and ready for any challenge. The demanding workouts and the spirit of competition cultivate not only physical fitness but also mental resilience and camaraderie among the participants. As the 25 Regiment and Defence School of Transport team continues to compete, they embody the spirit of BAWF, demonstrating the dedication and athleticism that define the modern British soldier.

8 The 25RLC masters team take third place on the podium at the Army final

8 Consistent podium finishes throughout the season resulted in qualification for the Army final

27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT

CO: Lt Col E Bowman • Adjt: Capt M Dyte • RSM: WO1 M Wallwork

7 Fuel and General Transport Squadron

After six months of planning and preparation, 7 F&GT Sqn deployed on Ex WARFIGHTER 25.4, taking on the critical Real-Life Support role. This large-scale multinational exercise saw approximately 1,600 personnel deploy from the UK to Fort Cavazos, Texas. Comprising of 180 personnel from across various RLC trades, the Sqn played a pivotal role in enabling 3 (UK) Div to be validated by III (US) Corps.

A standout moment was the opportunity to engage in real-world rail operations. At Corpus Christi, soldiers assisted in unloading ISO containers and vehicles from RoRo ships onto rail platforms, before continuing the journey to the Rail Point of Disembarkation at Fort Cavazos. Over the three-month deployment, the Sqn not only supported the exercise but also conducted valuable interoperabilitytraining with U.S. counterparts. The experience offered a unique chance to enhance joint operational capability.

Beyond the demanding work, soldiers also had the chance to explore the cultural richness of Texas. Highlights included visits to the NASA Space Centre in Houston, rodeo shows in Austin, and the iconic Longhorn parades in Dallas.

8 Fuel and General Transport Squadron

8 F&GT Sqn has been integral to the Rear Operations Group supporting Ex WARFIGHTER. Simultaneously, the Sqn has prioritised increasing vehicle readiness through the Equipment Care (EC) Task Force initiative. By focusing on proactive maintenance, inspections, and repairs, this significantly improved the availability of the regimental vehicle fleet. Additionally, the Sqn showcased its competitive edge by participating in the Army Operational Shooting Competition. Competing against some of the best in the Army, the Sqn’s representatives performed admirably.

In summary, these achievements underscore the Sqn’s adaptability, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.

91 Supply Squadron

91 Sqn has been aligned to predeployment training for operations abroad. Additionally, Service Personnel (SP) have also been deployed on Operation INTERFLEX (HAP), supporting the training of Ukrainian troops.

Pre-deployment training has involved developing shooting skills with a series of both rifle and pistol ranges, culminating in a three-day TLFTT package at Hythe Ranges. The final day of the package saw SP engage in five vs five urban ‘simmunition’ serials, confirming and testing CQB drills.

A multi-day exercise to confirm green skills followed. This saw deploying SP establishing harbour locations and conducting dismounted patrols, encountering both IEDs as well as orange and red forces. Following CRBN serials, exercising troops proceeded to conduct defensive, deliberate actions, conducting simultaneous section attacks.

19 Tank Transporter Squadron

19 Sqn, DTTOs have deployed to Greece and Romania on Ex STEADFAST DART and to Texas as part of Ex WARFIGHTER. Cpl Mulley covered the tactical responsibilities of the BOWO, receiving the Bde Comd’s coin for his efforts.

The School of Tank Transporting, helmed by Head of Trade WO2 Chapman and Senior Instructor SSgt Thompson, had an absolutely phenomenal year in terms of training and delivering new DTTOs to the Corps. In the last three months it has delivered two Medium Equipment Transporter courses, one DTTO Class 1 course, one DTTO Class 3 course and a DTTT course.

Concurrently the Sqn has been maintaining our perpetual commitment to Op CABRIT with C Tp under Lt Jobling working heavily with the US Army to move their armour across the Baltics.

8 C Tp 19 Sqn has been busy moving British and US armour across the Baltics

8 7 Sqn conducting Interoperability training with US and British CSTs

29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

SOUTH CERNEY

CO: Lt Col T Brazier • Adjt: Capt F Taylor • RSM: WO1 C Corderoy

Another busy period for 29 Regiment RLC, with the squadrons continuing to rotate under the FORM cycle. 50 Sqn closed off its commitment to Short-Term Enabling Tasks (STETs) with a memorable deployment to America for Ex WARFIGHTER. Upon moving into the Joint Air Mounting Centre (JAMC), the Sqn led on Special to Arm (STA) training for our partnered reserve unit, 162 Regt RLC. A resounding success boosting regular and reserve interoperability.

Comms Tp has continued to be evaluated in new environments to better support the Regt and 104 TSB HQ. Ex CENTURION TEMPEST saw the troop deploy to sunny Caerwent to establish comms at SU level whilst also ensuring a vital link to higher HQs. 55 Sqn has also taken the lead on AT for the Regt, planning and executing a fantastic AT package for the Regt in Capel Curig. The two-week package saw soldiers exposed to mountain biking, rock climbing and kayaking; thoroughly enjoyed by all and an opportunity to do something different outside of the usual operational commitments.

59 Sqn deployed to Romania and Greece on Ex STEADFAST DART in support of the ARF and 102 OSB. The Sqn transported over 2,000 pax and 900 pieces of VaME using a combination of rail, road and sea movements. On return the Sqn moved to STETs, with soldiers deploying on Op HEDGEHOG, BULL CYCLONE, JEBEL STORM and Ex WARFIGHTER; just to name a few. As the Sqn moves forward, it does so under new leadership as Maj Jimmy Starling hands over to Maj Ornella McGarvey-Miles.

Alongside long-term deployments to Kenya, Estonia and BFSAI, 69 Sqn took the lead on Ex CENTURION TEMPEST to validate ahead of future taskings. Taking a back-to-basics approach, the Sqn developed low-level skills, including training on pistol, before moving

into the field to practice soldiering skills whilst balancing trade development. Operating in the urban-rural interface, the Sqn was assessed in an unfamiliar environment facing a complex threat, all whilst running an FMCC and ensuring support to Bde HQ.

80 Sqn showed off its trade for the JSJET team at the BFPO London. A decisive win that saw the JSJET team learn a great deal about the small, niche and relatively unknown trade. As Defence’s only Postal and Courier

8 Counter-IED Drills on Ex CENTURION TEMPEST

8 29 Regt's Women's team at the Corps OSC

Services Sqn, 80 Sqn remains highly committed. Soldiers from the Sqn maintain a global presence with permanent deployments to BFSAI, the Middle East, Belize, Cyprus, Kenya and more.

Alongside operational outputs, members of the Regt have found time to compete in other activities, coming away with great experiences and some more silver for the cabinet. The boxing team has strived for success, setting regimental records as the 104 TSB champions and runners-up in the Corps championships. WO2 Kilfoyle has also led the Regt’s female contingent to glory, competing and scoring highly at both the Corps and Defence Operational Shooting Competitions. Finally, the Regt has also seen success in the Orienteering space, placing second out of all major units at the Corps Orienteering Championships. As we move into the summer period, the Regt says a fond farewell to multiple members of the Regt. Not to name them all but we say goodbye to Maj Rob Mortimer (Regt 2IC), Maj “JJ” Jean-Marie (OC 50 Sqn) and Maj Jimmy Starling (OC 59 Sqn). With this comes new arrivals and the Regt looks forward to welcoming new members to the Centurion family.

20 Transport Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps

LONDON

OC: Maj Z Lester-Morris • SSM: WO2 S Hardman

Not all heroes wear caps

Each June, London becomes a living stage of British pageantry for the official celebration of the Sovereign’s birthday. With over 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians, a dazzling display of military precision watched by millions worldwide. But behind the grandeur lies a relentless engine of effort. We go behind the scenes of Trooping the Colour with 20 Squadron RLC.

Making the monumental possible 20 Sqn doesn’t just support this spectacle; it makes it possible. Tasked with providing logistical support to London District units, the Royal Household, and the MOD, the Sqn is the unsung enabler of the summer ceremonial season. The work begins with the enormous operation of forward mounting the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery into Regent’s Park Barracks. That means relocating 90 horses, 110 soldiers, WWI-era guns and all the associated ceremonial equipment. The vehicle park at Regents Park is closed and repurposed. An entire ceremonial infrastructure is moved from Woolwich to central London; complete with temporary living accommodation in the form of marquees; tailor shops, and farrier setups are constructed from scratch - all meticulously managed by the Sqn to ensure everything runs with military precision.

Rehearsals before dawn Rehearsals kick off long before dawn. One example… 01:00 AM VE Day rehearsal in Parliament Square, followed by the VE 80 Parade just hours later, and a Hyde Park gallop the next day. From there, it’s straight into the Royal Windsor Horse Show and then back to Regent’s Park for four intense weeks of prep for the King’s Birthday Parade.

All this happens alongside other key duties: Buckingham Palace Garden Parties, barracks inspections, the Order of the Garter, and the Presentation of New Colours –each requiring seamless planning and execution.

Behind every step, 20 Sqn moves

The final lead-up to Trooping the Colour includes full-dress Major General’s and Colonel’s Reviews. While the nation watches the polish and precision, 20 Sqn remains in motion –delivering horses to Parliament Square at sunrise and keeping every moving part aligned.

The quiet champions of tradition Without 20 Sqn, there would be no seamless transitions, no horses ready for ceremonial salutes, no troops on time and in place. The Sqn’s commitment, both military and civilian, ensures that tradition and pageantry are upheld without disruption.

Our personnel don’t march on parade or salute the King, but their impact is just as vital. Their days start before sunrise and end long after the crowds have gone home. They don’t wear plumed helmets or polished medals, but they are the force that keeps ceremonial Britain running like clockwork.

Because not all heroes wear caps - some are behind the wheel of a car, KB, Luton and coach or in charge of accommodation, or loading horses at 2am. And without them, the splendour of Trooping the Colour simply wouldn’t be possible.

44 Support Squadron Royal Military Academy SANDHURST

OC: Maj Z Zmitrowicz • TCWO: WO1 L Brier

In recent months, 44 Support Squadron RLC has continued to demonstrate its commitment to excellence through a diverse range of activities. These have included demanding field training to enhance operational effectiveness, a battlefield study to deepen historical understanding, and a charity initiative supporting education in Nepal. Together, these efforts reflect the Squadron’s dedication to professional development, historical insight, and meaningful contribution beyond its core duties.

Ex ACES TYRE: Sharpening core soldiering skills

From 12 to 14 May, 44 Sqn participated in Ex ACES TYRE - a comprehensive and intensive training programme designed to enhance core soldiering and mobility capabilities under challenging field conditions.

The exercise focused on refining essential operational drills aligned with contemporary conflict scenarios. Troops rehearsed actions on contact, demonstrating swift and coordinated responses to simulated enemy engagements while maintaining unit cohesion under stress. A key component involved casualty evacuation from vehicles, where personnel practiced rapid extraction and life-saving treatment in hostile, high-pressure situations - skills critical in both combat and humanitarian operations.

Recognising the evolving nature of modern threats, the exercise also included scenarios involving drone attacks. These vignettes aimed to sharpen situational awareness, decision-making, and rapid reaction to aerial surveillance and strike threats. Pre-planned drills further developed structured, efficient responses.

Driving skills were tested through cross-country mobility and nightdriving exercises, challenging soldiers to navigate difficult terrain

and operate vehicles in low-visibility conditions. These sessions reinforced teamwork, communication, and precise vehicle handling in unpredictable environments.

The exercise culminated in a demanding final serial that integrated all elements trained, requiring adaptability, composure, and leadership under pressure.

The exercise proved to be a valuable opportunity for 44 Sqn to sustain operational readiness and reinforce mission-critical competencies in a controlled yet dynamic setting.

Battlefield Study: Lessons from Gallipoli

In May, five members of 44 Sqn participated in a week-long Battlefield Study on the Gallipoli Peninsula - Turkey - alongside personnel from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst Training Support Unit.

The study aimed to develop professional understanding by exploring the strategic and tactical challenges of the Gallipoli campaign during WWI. Each day included visits to significant sites such as ANZAC Cove, Suvla Bay, and Chunuk Bair, offering powerful insight into the Allied attempt to overcome the stalemate of the Western Front through a new front in the Dardanelles.

A key highlight for the team was retracing the steps of the ANZAC forces during their assault, helping to contextualise the operational

hardships and decision-making pressures faced by commanders on both sides. Participants analysed the terrain, studied leadership decisions, and discussed the enduring relevance of these lessons in today’s military environment.

The experience not only provided a greater appreciation for the sacrifices of those who fought but also deepened participants’ understanding of how modern doctrine has evolved. The study reinforced the value of historical analysis in developing critical thinking and tactical awareness among today’s military professionals.

The Dorney Lake Half Marathon

On 7 Jun 25, 14 personnel from 44 Sqn, completed the Dorney Lake Half Marathon to raise funds for the Depot School in Dharan, Nepal. Despite busy training commitments, the team raised £581 to support renovations at the school, which provides quality education to children of ex-British Gurkhas and the wider community. The effort reflected strong teamwork, commitment, and a deep connection to the Gurkha heritage. Team 44’s initiative highlights the spirit of service beyond duty - supporting global communities through fitness, fundraising, and unity.

8 Seremban Troop after successfully completing the Dorney half marathon raising money for charity

VICTOR Squadron, Commando Logistic Regiment RM

BARNSTAPLE

OC: Maj T Stanford RLC • SMM: WO2 M Ward RM

V Sqn provides second-line logistics support to UK Commando Forces (UKCF) and first-line supply capability to the Littoral Response Groups (40 and 45 Cdo RM). It is predominantly RLC with SCO (LSS) and Pet Op trades but also contains a Royal Marines Transport Troop. The workforce is a diverse and fully integrated team of specialists committed to the unique challenge of sustaining Commando Force operations worldwide.

The Sqn continues to support Op INTERLINK seeing ranks build and become confident in their supply knowledge as well them seeing the real time output of their work. On return from Easter leave the Sqn immediately became the Main Effort for a CF Exercise. Ex ARCTIC TIDE will see UKCF’s second line Litoral Strike Group (LSG), linking in with the Littoral Response Groups’ (LRG) F Ech within a tactical scenario in the High North Region.

Petroleum Troop has continued to push the boundaries of what is expected of a Petroleum Operator with most of the Troop completing Embarked Forces Sea Survival, Rigger Marshal and SERE courses, allowing them to conduct Helicopter Underslung operations onboard Royal Navy vessels in support of the Commando Force. The Troop has also been at the forefront of Defence innovation, completing Ex TIGER IGNITE with 7 Regt RLC partners, which saw the first use of the Joint Operational Fuel System (JOFS) used for live fuel operations within buildings as well as small scale tactical fuel sites.

Innovative use of existing fuel capabilities

In May Transport Troop explained to young soldiers at the Army Foundation College what life is like in the Commando Forces. It was a successful demonstration with some recruits expressing interest in a career as a Commando Logistician.

LCpl Coultrip at the Army OSC LCpl Coultrip had a highly successful time as a member of the first all-female shooting team at the Corps then Army Operational Shooting Competitions. Marksmanship is incredibly valuable for CF and LCpl Coultrip’s abilities will be utilised during V Sqn’s training to ensure that everyone can benefit from her experience. Others in the Sqn travelled to Bavaria where they conducted a multi-activity AT package at the Royal Navy AT lodge, gaining a much-needed break and seeing the great opportunities a career in the Armed Forces offers.

Helicopter Underwater Escape Training

As the autumn and winter exercises get closer the Sqn has also begun its training preparation with concentrations on Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) and Embarked Forces Sea-Survival Courses (EFSSC) which allow us to integrate with our CF and RN partners and work from shipping. Members of V Sqn, of all genders and backgrounds, are encouraged, but not forced, to complete the AllArms Commando Course. Potential Commandos are supported with training and advice to ensure they can perform to the best of their abilities. Pending CoC approval sign-up to the course is available

through 24 Cdo RE’s SharePoint. A total of three courses run each year. The course is demanding but progressive, offering SPs the chance to learn tactics and techniques relevant to Commando operations while testing their physical and mental robustness and ultimately, earning the coveted Commando Green Beret. If this is something that interests you, do not hesitate to reach out to the Sqn, sign up for our ’Look at Life’ unit visits or consider following our Instagram account @vcommandosquadron to see what life is like for V Sqn personnel and the RLC’s Commandos. You won’t know what you are capable of until you try!

8 Pet Troop deployed on Ex TIGER IGNITE

8 LCpl Coultrip’s marksmanship abilities will enhance V Sqn’s training

THE WHEELED MULTI-PLATFORM INSTRUCTOR (WMPI) COURSE

The WMPI Course is a new instructor qualification delivered by DST, replacing the former Defence General Service Driver Conversion Instructor (DGSDCI) course and multiple other platform-specific instructor courses, including Quad, CAV, EPLS, PLS, Snatch, MRZR, OSK Driver Instructor, CST, MLET, Winch, CALM SV.

Once qualified, a WMPI can deliver authorised distributed driver training on any vehicle platform listed on the WMPI permitted list, provided they are current and competent on that platform. Further updates will be shared as soon as they are available.

COURSE DETAILS

Duration: 3 weeks

Availability: Now live on TARGET

Who: All Defence personnel who are required to deliver distributed driver training.

When: All dates are available on TARGET and in the DST Course Pamphlet.

IMPORTANT NOTES

All legacy DST instructor qualifications remain valid.

Existing training materials will continue to be available to support distributed training for the foreseeable future.

INSTRUCTOR CONVERSION

Planning is underway to convert current DGSDCI and other wheeled platform instructors can transition to WMPI qualification. The goal is to complete this conversion as quickly as possible, while maintaining all safety and quality standards.

150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

HULL, LINCOLN, TYNEMOUTH, LEEDS, DONCASTER

CO: Lt Col S J Barker • Adjt: Capt S Greaves • RSM: WO1 C Stephenson

A highlight in the Regimental calendar is Ex WAGONERS’ CHALLENGE; an event that brings together Regular and Reserve units from across the Corps to compete for the coveted ‘Horse and Wagon’ Trophy. The 2025 competition marked the fourth annual event which is held in the grounds of Sledmere House, East Yorkshire, owned by the Sykes family. Sir Mark Sykes raised the Wagoners’ Special Reserve in 1913, a Unit that shares some lineage with 150 Regiment.

Competitors take part in a series of events including; the Bale Challenge, the Gun Run and Tug-ofWar. The overall winners of this year’s event were 1 Regiment RLC –the first time that a unit has won back-to-back events. Special thanks to the Sykes Family and Sledmere House for allowing the event to be held in their grounds, the Museum of the Wagoners’ Special Reserve, curated by Mr Martin Watts, and to Maj Al Holmes (QM) and Capt Stu O’Hagan (PSAO, 218 Squadron) for putting together such a memorable event.

Quarter in review

The Regt enters the new training year with a renewed sense of purpose and rigour. A specific focus has been made on achieving mandated ITRs in a more engaging manner through meaningful training serials. The Regt’s first major exercise provided the opportunity to get back into the field with dismounted, fieldcraftfocused, serials in Catterick.

Capt P Bowler (ROSO) and his team of recruiters continue to use their ingenuity to attract prospective soldiers and officers to the Regt. In support of the recruitment effort, the Regt has partnered with One SC Media, a company local to the RHQ in Hull, to develop its social media presence across several platforms to improve recruitment within subunit locations. The MD, Subhash Chatterjee, and his team of

photographers and videographers have helped support a series of recent events and it is anticipated that the Regt’s ‘new look’ social media presence will be launched in the coming weeks.

Perhaps the single-most important development over the past quarter has been the uplift in our vehicle fleet, specifically, the introduction of 12 PLS as well as several EPLS and FFRs. The Unit will also be in receipt of a CST(W), it will be the first platform of its type to enter service in the Regt’s history owing to 218 (Tanker) Squadron’s re-rolling under ‘Future Soldier’. The new additions to our fleet will allow our Army Reservists to be gainfully employed, once qualified, and to get more from their voluntary service.

Looking forward

The next major milestone for the Regt is Ex RHINO HEART 25, supporting 19 Brigade. Serving as the Unit’s ACT, our RHQ and Transport Squadron will deploy to

8

Sennelager in October to put into action everything that has been rehearsed and exercised over the summer months.

Sgt S Hardstaff (RSI) has taken the lead in developing new and novel ways of working by establishing a drone capability. Now a fully qualified operator, he has recently acquired the necessary licences to fly UAS that will support future exercise capability as well as Unit lethality through aerial reconnaissance and CSS node security. The RSI has also been working with higher formations to both improve the Unit’s combat effectiveness through improved communications platforms (Wave and Bracer). The benefit being enhanced situational awareness as well as an upskilling of our Communications Specialists.

Join us

We have sub-Unit locations in Doncaster, Hull, Leeds, Lincoln and Tynemouth and we are always looking to hear from those considering joining or transferring across from the Regular Army.

Equine familiarisation during Ex WAGONERS’ CHALLENGE

8 Fieldcraft training in Catterick

151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

CROYDON

CO: Lt Col A Balchin • Adjt: Capt S Copson • RSM: WO1 B Woolley

151 Regiment has been implementing innovative practises at every level, driving forward new approaches to training and operational effectiveness. Enhancing warfighting capabilities and survivability, these developments will ensure the Unit remains agile and ready for evolving challenges. Alongside this, we have been actively expanding recruitment and outreach activities, attracting new talent and fostering deeper connections with the community.

Located in South London, 210 Sqn has introduced a new practice whereby personnel of any rank deliver a presentation on current cultural events and personal experiences. Championed by the OC, Maj Marshall, this initiative aims to enrich understanding and leverage the diverse abilities and backgrounds within the team. These briefs are delivered on ‘Food and Phys’ training nights, utilising the more informal environment so as everyone can come together to unwind after PT. The Sqn is also embracing modern remote working practices, with the training programme now including regular online sessions - allowing personnel to work from home or wherever they may be. Beyond these developments, 210 Sqn has also celebrated new achievements. One highlight was securing victory at the Regt's Military Skills Competition, with individuals undertaking a series of challenges designed to test their soldiering skills. Additionally, 2Lt Fisher was awarded The Carmen’s 151 Regiment RLC award.

In Croydon, 508 (HQ) Sqn took a fresh approach to recruitment and engagement. It held an open evening during a training night and explored innovative event advertising techniques to engage new audiences. Potential candidates were invited via DRS, whilst Cadets attended as part of an initiative designed to foster inperson engagement with the local

ACF. Sqn personnel were also encouraged to invite friends and family, and there were some new stands including a Virtus display. It was a highly successful and enjoyable event: five expression of interest forms were completed, two Cadets showed keenness to join the Sqn upon turning 18yrs, and there were two subsequent Attestations into the Sqn. Furthermore, attending families were thrilled to gain insight into their loved ones’ roles in the Reserves, strengthening their overall connection to the ‘Trident’ family. With word spreading about the open evening, 508 Sqn anticipates even greater attendance at September’s event, which is set to be even bigger and better.

Rounding off an excellent series of innovation and achievements across the Regt, Barnet-based 240 Sqn has progressed both locally and further afield. Corporal Fox completed the intensive Palletised Loading Operator (PLO) course at DST Leconfield, showcasing his exceptional talents throughout the hands-on training and testing. Moreover, 2Lt Leung became the first service person to successfully compete at the National Grassroots Eventing Championship. 240 Sqn has also enriched its training delivery and adaptability, through exploring creative alternatives and

leveraging the wealth of transferable skills among its personnel. DGSDC Instructor Sgt Spooner applied his extensive knowledge and skills in novel ways within the Tri-service environment: “I worked in conjunction with Babcock and the RAF at Northolt, training some of their service personnel in Land Rover GS to enable them to deploy to the Falklands.” Elsewhere, since her article on Army Motorsport was published in The RLC Review, Captain Booth has been researching how competing in 4x4 Navigation events can benefit unit training, recruitment, and retention objectives. From competition successes to workplace innovations, 151 Regiment has proactively embraced a multifaceted approach to skill development and personnel engagement. This commitment has delivered tangible results across various settings, as reflected in Pte Iley’s recent experience tackling complex terrain in an SV, which “offered a valuable mix of vehicle familiarisation and practical driving experience…a good blend of skillbuilding, refreshers, and offroading, increasing my confidence in my trade and role.”

8 The victorious 210 Sqn Mil Skills team

152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST

CO: Lt Col J Monument

• Adjt: Capt S McIlveen • RSM: WO1 S Bowers

The period from March to July 2025 has been a busy and highly successful few months for 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC, marked by significant achievements in shooting, field training, community engagement, and personnel development.

After a winter period of intensive preparation, the Regt’s shooting calendar officially commenced with the Regimental Operational Shooting Competition (ROSC) in March, ably won by 400 Sqn. This internal event marked a strong start to the year, sharpening the marksmanship and tactical shooting skills across the unit and laying the foundations for further competitive success in the months to follow.

April saw the Regt building on the momentum of the ROSC, taking pride in winning the RLC Corps Operational Shooting Competition. Competing against both regular and reserve units across the Corps, this achievement demonstrated the high standards of training, discipline, and commitment within the Regt’s shooting teams. In parallel, operational field training continued with a regimental deployment on Exercise GREEN SHADOW 2 to achieve CT(B). This phase of training focussed on troop-level trade skills within a field environment, with an emphasis on soldier first principles. It marked a key stage in the Regt’s progressive training cycle.

In May, the Regt played a leading role in community engagement, spearheading VE Day celebrations in Coleraine. The Pipes and Drums were front and centre, representing the Regt with pride and strengthening links with the local community. Operational shooting success continued, with the team securing a win at the Northern Ireland Operational Shooting Competition, a competition involving all NI-based Units. This reaffirmed the Regt’s position as a leading force in marksmanship across both the Corps and the region. In other sport, the Regt entered a team and performed well

in the RLC Orienteering Championships, placing third overall in an excellent effort.

June saw the Regt operate across a broad spectrum of activities. A section of Pet Ops from 400 Sqn deployed to the United States on QMLLEX, gaining valuable international exposure and enhancing interoperability with allied forces. Back in the UK, the Regt took the lead on Ex POTENTIAL WOLF – a PO and SSE candidate development weekend held in Grantham for 104 TS Bde and RLC Reserves. The exercise provided potential future leaders with an immersive and challenging training experience. Exercise

GREEN SHADOW 3, the culmination of the CT(C) training cycle, saw widespread regimental deployment across all Northern Ireland training areas. This phase tested and validated collective field skills, logistics support capabilities, and tactical integration across squadrons. Additionally, the Pipes and Drums deployed on a combined Band Camp with 154 Regt RLC, making great strides in growing our ever-successful band. With shooting never far away on the calendar at this time of the year, the Regt also performed excellently in the Army Reserve Operational Shooting Competition (AROSC), placing 2nd overall but winning a host of individual titles.

July saw the first official visit by Brig Joe Brown, the newly appointed Commander of 104 Bde. More sporting success saw the orienteering team win the NI Orienteering Champs 2025 whilst 211 Sqn supported Foyle CCF target rifle shooting training. Overall, this period has demonstrated the Regt’s operational effectiveness, esprit de corps, and commitment to excellence across all areas.

8 Ex GREEN SHADOW 2 Trg Serial

8 ITR Training Weekend

154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

DUNFERMLINE

CO: Lt Col C O’Brien • Adjt: Capt W Griffith • RSM: WO1 D Knox

Another busy period for 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC, seeing the delivery of Real-Life Support (RLS) to the British Military contingent on Nijmegen Marches, several Bde Comd commendations and the opening of a new golf simulator at the Regimental Headquarters location.

The Regt supported the Nijmegen Marches, assisted by personnel from eight other units deploying from Dunfermline to Nijmegen in Holland. The Nijmegen Marches, or International Four Days Marches Nijmegen (Interationale Vierdaagse Afstandsmarsen Nijmegen) is the largest multi-day marching event in the world, held annually in Nijmegen. Including civilian participants, the event regularly sees around 40,000 people complete the challenge, with military teams completing 40km per day carrying 10kg of equipment each. Over the course of four days, three support points were established, 24,000 litres of water distributed and the circa 800 military personnel from the British contingent were supported during their four day, 160km march, with plenty of assistance given to the American military participants. With only 35 SP, the RLS co-ordinated 16 vehicles and enabled a successful delivery of the event. With participants spread across the day, the team expected customers from 05:20 until around 20:00 – a full day for both participants and RLS alike! RLS 2IC, WO2 T Strachan said: “Having never worked together before, the RLS team pulled together and performed well above what we were expecting. An unforgettable experience that many will try and get on again.”

The Regimental Honorary Colonel, Brig (Retd) Duncan was able to visit and present two Warrant Officers with commendations on behalf of Comd 102 OSB Bde. WO2 A Carson received a commendation for exemplary selfless commitment

and compassion, while WO2 Adamson received recognition for managing to ensure the 51 Bde DeLTA remained open and functioning allowing driving licence acquisition to continue in Scotland. The final Comd 102 OSB commendation was awarded to the civilian responsible for managing the delivery of the new Army Reserve Centre, Mr Gavin Fry. His diligent work and tireless co-

ordination saw a successful build, with obstacles like the discovery of WWII SIP Grenades taken in his stride and dealt with efficiently. The Regt is very grateful for the construction of an updated and upgraded RHQ and looks forward to fully moving into the new build. Following a very successful curry lunch provided by the Regimental chefs, the Honorary Colonel was treated to a quick round of simulated golf on the Regt’s new Foresight GC3 Launch Monitor Golf Simulator. The well-established 154 Regt Golf Team is pleased to be able to hone its skills yearround, not having to rely on a break in the Scottish weather to take to the course! The new simulator allows a number of courses to be played, along with analysis and coaching for the Regt’s keen golfers. The simulator also offers novice golfers an opportunity to access the sport without excessive club fees or spending the larger part of their day searching through the rough for stray golf balls. A thoroughly excellent piece of equipment which will undoubtedly increase participation across 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC.

8 The Regt’s Hon Col, Brig Duncan on the new simulator with members of the golf team

8 WO2 Carson is presented with her award

156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL

CO: Lt Col A Tang • Adjt: Capt M Rodgers • RSM: WO1 P Black

156 Regiment RLC has had a particularly busy quarter, involving a range of activities that allowed personnel to showcase their teamwork, endurance and military skills. From the Annual Combat Marksmanship Test (ACMT) and the Regimental Chalker Cup competition to the Army Powerlifting championships, these events allowed participants to showcase their talents in a range of relevant areas such as, military transport, shooting, battlefield casualty drills (BCD) and overall strength and sporting capability.

The Chalker Cup encouraged friendly competition between squadrons within the Regt and squadrons from its sister regiments, 27 Regiment RLC and 10 Queens Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (10QOGLR). The Regt also marked Armed Forces week with many events, including a flag raising at Liverpool Town Hall and marching through Eccles to Winton Park, reflecting on past sacrifices whilst celebrating and showing appreciation for all current and former military personnel.

Sport & AT

Members of 156 Regt have been representing the Regt across a plethora of sports across the wider RLC and the Army. These range from clay target shooting at the RLC/REME Clay Target Championships, Army Powerlifting Competition and Army Rugby Union. This quarter saw the Regt attend the RLC Festival of Sport. The event is a great opportunity for Soldiers and Officers to participate in new sports, focus on building camaraderie, boost physical fitness and hone important military skills. In addition to all the sport being conducted, members of the Regt have arranged and deployed on various AT packages monopolising on the Army Offer and what it means to be an Army Reservist, balancing civilian careers with their Army Reserve career.

Chalker Cup Military Skills competition

The Chalker Cup is a regimental level military skills competition with all the 156 Regt squadrons competing in teams alongside teams from 27 Regiment RLC and 10 QOGLR. Stands included a 2km best effort TAB, a gun run, BCD, vehicle recognition, military transport, military knowledge and a command task.

Always a tough competition and hard fought, the winner this year is

238 Sqn, with 235 Sqn the close runners up. In third place was 1 Sqn from 10QOGLR.

Every year the Chalker Cup allows 156 Regt’s soldiers to practice their trade skills and test their fitness in a fun and competitive environment; whilst also developing their ability to work in a close-knit team. This improves the Regt’s readiness and integration with its regular counterparts.

65th International Military Pilgrimage, Lourdes

Focusing on the moral component during this quarter, members from 156 Regt attend the International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes. This annual tradition was founded in 1958, when the French invited the Germans as a gesture of reconciliation and charity after World War II. It is a special time to remember and honour those who have lost their lives in past and current conflicts and a key reminder of what the ultimate sacrifice is. It helps foster a mindset built around reflection and unity, key components which form some of the corner stones of the Armed Forces.

8 Members of 156 Regt in Lourdes

8 156 Regt participated in Armed Forces Week events in Liverpool

157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

CARDIFF, SWANSEA, CARMARTHEN AND QUEENSFERRY

CO: Lt Col T Shaw • Adjt: Capt R Evans • RSM: WO1 H Blackmore

Ex SNOWCLOUD DRAGON 2025

– By Capt J John (224 Sqn)

Ex SNOWCLOUD DRAGON 2025 (SD 2025) was a joint 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade (OSB) Reserve Type 3 Adventurous, Leadership & Resilience expedition led by 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC. It took place in Flaine, France, from the 14 – 30 Mar 25, with 64 Regular and Reserve personnel deployed from four 101 OSB Army Reserve units over two five-day ski foundation packages.

The journey down to Flaine was flawless with all units meeting for a night of luxury in St Martin, before the onward journey to Flaine. Once in resort, all the required kit was issued, and all groups hit the slopes ahead of schedule.

The ski in / ski out accommodation was superb and ensured first day beginners didn’t have far to walk far to try skiing for the first time. Conditions on the first day were challenging with zero visibility, however from then onwards the sun shone and temperatures rocketed.

The Ski Foundation (SF) 2 (intro to ski touring) groups made good use of the conditions and smashed out some high-level off-piste routes including the highest point in the Grand Massif ski area at 2,561m (Tetes Des Lindres). The SF1 (beginners) groups progressed at pace, and their lift passes certainly weren’t wasted.

Overall, a superb package delivered by 157 Regt, which was enjoyed by all, with the impressive award of 30 x SF1 and 20 x SF2 qualifications over the two weeks.

Ex DRAGON ARC 25 -

By SSgt Callaway (224 Sqn)

Riders from 157 Regt, Deputy Comd 3 (UK) Div and invited guests from the RLC Cycling Association embarked on Ex DRAGON ARC 2025 (Ex DA25) from 1 to 5 May 25. This extraordinary endeavour involved a challenging circumnavigation of the Regt’s Army Reserve Centres by bicycle. The

event commenced and culminated at RHQ in Maindy Barracks, Cardiff. Five legs saw the team cover a total distance of 625km, with over 6,500m of elevation.

The primary objective of Ex DA25 was to raise public awareness of 157 (Welsh) Regt in our home base through a series of Community Engagement (CE), and Employer Engagement (EE) events throughout Wales.

Day one saw members of the Regt ride from Cardiff to Carmarthen (224 Sqn) via Swansea (223 Sqn) and an Employer Engagement event at Parc Y Scarlets, Llanelli (130km). On day two, riders cycled from Carmarthen to Dolgellau on what

proved to be a very lumpy 116km with over 1,645m of elevation. On day three we were joined by members of RLC Cycling Association who conducted some big hill training prior deploying to France on Ex ETAPE RIVEIRA. Ride leader for day 3 was Capt Wayne Roberts of 398 Sqn, who guided us through his backyard (Snowdonia National Park) to Mold town centre where we held a community engagement event. The day concluded with a short 10km to Army Reserve Centre, Queensferry (398 Sqn).

On day four we headed south from to Builth Wells, with a designated finish at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Showground; at 160km.

The last day took the riders to Cardiff via the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park and the infamous ‘Beast of Wales’ climb at Talybont, before dropping down through the Taff Valley.

The exercise was made possible by generous financial support by the Wales Reserves and Cadet Fund, providing an incredible £773.21, and the 157 Regt support team.

8 The 157 Regt Ex SD 2025 team in the French Alps

8 CO and cyclists with His Majesty’s Lord Lt of Dyfed at Parc Y Scarlets

158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH

CO: Lt Col J Gallagher • Adjt: Capt T Martens • RSM: WO1 D Black

In April, 158 Regiment RLC had a change of command with Lt Col Anna Swales MBE handing over to Lt Col Judith Gallagher. This change also saw a new RHQ team arrive as the XO, Adjutant and RSM have all handed over in the last few months. The Unit also welcomed in a new Regimental 2IC.

A highlight in March was the Commanding Officer’s study weekend. This event allowed for a deep dive into each Sqn's priorities, risks, and sustainment plans, fostering strategic thinking and ensuring our plans contribute to being the best. We also explored how data on recruitment can be leveraged by OCs and the wider team to unblock barriers and target areas for increased effort, enhancing our long-term resilience and readiness.

In April, 202 Sqn ran a highly successful BCS focused weekend. This built on section battle drills, field craft, first aid training, communications, living in the field, and critical ground sign awareness training for C-EO. This training is fundamental to individual and collective lethality and readiness. By May, the Regt’s focus shifted to collection of vehicles such as our FFR Land Rovers to ensure we have the organic capability and readiness to conduct preparation training for exercises later in the year. Across June, work continues with vehicle collections with 158 Regt collecting its PLS vehicles resulting in a significant increase of lift capability. Moving forward, the Regt will ensure it trains instructors for the PLS allowing us to train our drivers inhouse, and we will send our fitters out on courses to ensure the care and maintenance of the vehicles.

New ways of working 158 Regt has actively sought innovative ways to work and streamline processes to enhance our effectiveness and efficiency: Offline Supplier Training Facility (STF) – 294 Sqn has demonstrated

innovation by building an offline STF for manual accounting that mirrors the MJDI system. This local innovation supports the professional development of our LSS. It provides a secure, practical environment for soldiers to complete workbook training towards their Class 2, without needing or having access to live systems.

E-gaming platforms– A 202 Sqn led project has ensured the Regt now has five portable laptops along with the gaming kit required, ensuring each Sqn can deliver egaming driver training. Furthermore, 202 Sqn purchased two drone controller systems to allow our SP to practice via a gaming system. These digital solutions provide a flexible and efficient means to practice and refine their skills,

reducing reliance on physical assets for initial training and thereby streamlining preparation and enhancing readiness.

Adaptive Sqn HQ deployment drills– In March 158 Regt demonstrated varying Sqn HQ deployment configurations in three stages (full, lighter, very light) showcasing a highly innovative approach to operational planning and readiness. It informs how our Sqn HQ can rapidly adapt to different operational environments, from uncontested to highly kinetic, ensuring C2 can be established and maintained effectively, thereby enhancing our lethality and readiness.

Sporting achievements

The Regt has had a plethora of sporting achievements over this period, including RLC Go Kart Team drivers, RLC Corps Clay Shooting Team members and second place at the Inter-Unit Squash competition. Highlights include Pte Barnes from 201 Sqn representing the UK Armed Forces Rifle Team at the World Long Range Championships and WO2 Haywood and Pte Evenden representing the Army Motorcycle Road Racing Enduro Team.

8 Pte Barnes competed at the World Long Range Rifle Championships

8 Two members of 158 Regt are in the Army Motorcycle Road Racing Team

159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

COVENTRY, TELFORD, WEST BROMWICH, STOKE-ON-TRENT, BURTON, LOUGHBOROUGH

CO: Lt Col R K Pelan • Adjt: Capt S Soper • RSM: WO1 S Fiakegbe

Delivering impact across the Globe Operational deployments provide rich and varied experiences across 159 Regiment RLC. Currently there are 13 Reservists mobilised on Op INTERFLEX (HAP UK), Op LAZURITE and Op SHADER, further demonstrating the Regt’s adaptability and operational contribution. Alongside these deployments, our soldiers have taken up exercise and Temporary Duty Staff roles in Kenya, Belize and the Falklands. From January onwards Regular and Reserve personnel have also been deployed to Romania on Ex STEADFAST DART with 102 OS Bde, and to Oman for Ex DESERT KHANJAR, further strengthening our international engagement and operational capability.

Strengthening connections at home

159 Regt conducts a successful employer engagement programme across the West Midlands. The Regt was invited to attend GXO’s annual driving competition at Telford, the Multimodal Exhibition at the NEC Birmingham, and also in June the Regt delivered the keynote regional leadership event for businesses, Ex FUTURE LEADER at Donnington. Working with Regional Command and the WM RFCA the Regt hosted 40 team leaders and managers from a range of public and private sector employers in order to offer an introduction to military leadership skills and methods. These events all contribute to our Regt’s identity

8 Cpl Moloney summiting Mt Kilimanjaro whilst deployed to Kenya

as the ‘Midlands’ Combat Logisticians’ as well as reinforcing the benefits for employers and the skills of Reservists who appreciate their support.

Driving capability forward

203 (Loughborough) Squadron has recently grown its training capability with the arrival of Palletised Load System (PLS) trucks

and will start to integrate these alongside the current MAN Support Vehicle fleet. As the fielding programme matures and the safety cases are secured this modernisation will significantly enhance the logistical agility, protection, and interoperability with NATO Allies. The introduction of these new vehicles marks a positive step forward, and we look forward to training our Drivers and being ready to support future exercises and operations.

Peak experience in Kenya

While mobilised to Kenya, Cpl Moloney took the opportunity to join a team from BATUS on a physically demanding and mentally challenging expedition to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro –the tallest peak in Africa at 5,895m (over 19,000ft). The trek traversed dense forests, rocky ridgelines, and steep ascents including the iconic Baranco Wall. Despite suffering the effects of slight altitude sickness, Cpl Moloney reached the summit at sunrise with clear skies and breathtaking views. These expeditions are important to build leadership and resilience training while also showcasing the unique opportunities available while serving.

8 Ex Future Leader delivered leadership training to 38 students in middle management from local employers

8 The team with the new PLS trucks

162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM

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

Ex KRONOS HUNTER 2/25

By SSgt Wardman

Over the period 12–27 Apr 25, 162 Regiment RLC and Army Reserve personnel from across the RLC deployed on Ex KRONOS HUNTER 2/25 (KH2/25) in Cyprus, demonstrating the ongoing commitment of 104 TS Bde to showcase the strength, cohesion, and capability of its Reserve forces. The exercise brought together soldiers from 152, 165, and 167 Regts, supported by their regular counterparts from 9 Regt who provided Combat Medical Technician (CMT) cover.

The training package included core military skills and a challenging but rewarding navigation phase, with troops excelling across all aspects of the field exercise. Maj Chris Scott XO of 162 Regt praised the success of the deployment: “This was a fantastic opportunity to bring together multiple elements of the Corps in a warmer climate. A shared understanding of basic military tactics and procedures is crucial as we look towards future overseas deployments.”

Troops were also given the opportunity to experience some of the unique cultural and historical elements of Cyprus. Over 50 service personnel (SP) took part in the “Green Line Tour”, visiting the UN-controlled buffer zone that divides Cyprus. The 180km border tour gave SP a chance to deepen their understanding of the island’s complex history and geopolitical significance. The tour included a fascinating visit to the now-

abandoned Nicosia International Airport, a highlight for many.

For those looking for adventure, mountain biking and hill walking proved popular, although high winds meant water sports at Tunnel Beach had to be put on hold.

In addition to the tactical training and cultural activities, troops also had the chance to complete a clay pigeon shooting day. Run jointly by WO2 Burns and Mr Mark Aguni of the local shooting school on the outskirts of Episkopi Garrison, over 40 SP successfully completed their Level 1 certification. Despite a small cost to cover admin and certification fees, spirits remained high, with all participants proudly receiving merit badges at the end of a long but enjoyable day on the range.

Exercise KH2/25 showcased not only the professionalism and enthusiasm of the Army Reserve but also the value of combining demanding military training with

opportunities to bond, explore, and grow as individuals and as a Corps.

104 TS Bde subalterns complete induction at 17 P&M Regt In May, subalterns from across 104 Bde gathered at 17 P&M Regt for a week-long induction package. Among the attendees were Lt George Thompson, 2Lt George Harold, and 2Lt Justin Morgan from 162 Regt.

The induction covered a range of essential topics, including unit recovery officer duties, the use of BAMs and WISMIS systems, and unit adventure training. According to 2Lt Morgan, the week also featured "some rather cheeky PT" adding a physical challenge to the programme.

The hospitality extended to the 162 Regt officers was exceptional. The subalterns expressed their gratitude for the warm welcome they received, particularly during a visit to the WO’s and Sgt’s Mess. Blessed with sunny weather throughout the week, the officers had the opportunity to explore the stunning local area, which added to the overall experience. The week concluded on a high note, with 2Lt Morgan attending the Corps Boxing event at Aldershot, hosted by 27 Regt. The evening was a resounding success, providing an exciting and memorable end to a productive and enjoyable induction.

The subalterns left 17 P&M Regt with new skills, fond memories, and a deeper connection to their Corps.

8 The 162 Regt cohort on Ex KH2/25

8 Three 162 RLC subalterns are inducted into 104 Bde

165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC

PLYMOUTH

CO: Lt Col G Symonds • Adjt: Capt D White • RSM: WO1 P Viant

The last quarter has been a dynamic and rewarding period for 165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC, marked by new equipment arrivals, community engagement, and high-profile visits.

New vessels

The Regt recently became the first unit in the British Army to receive and test the new Gemini 650 RIBs: enhancing the Regt’s waterborne training capabilities. The capability will be great addition to the fleet, increasing the time Mariners have to train at the helm. Developing the trade skills of Mariners on the water and experience operating a range of different vessels further contributes the operational effectiveness of 165 Regt’s Reservists. Access to waterborne training is a vital asset for attracting and retaining Reserve soldiers, offering unique and engaging opportunities that enhance both skill development, retention and recruitment.

Outreach

Community engagement remains a cornerstone of 165 Port & Maritime Regiment’s identity as a Reserve unit, with soldiers actively supporting local and national events. On 11 May, Isle of Wight Troop took part in the annual ‘Walk the Wight’ charity event, helping raise over £410,000 for Mountbatten Hospice by providing

‘back walkers’ –volunteers who assist participants, ensuring route safety, and close marshalling points. This marked the Troop’s tenth consecutive year supporting the Island’s largest fundraising event. Meanwhile, 232 Squadron demonstrated the versatility of the Port Operator trade during the Ten Tors Challenge in Dartmoor National Park, where it laid, maintained, and recovered Class 30 Track in support of 9 Regiment RLC. Their professionalism and teamwork ensured smooth operations throughout the event, further highlighting the Regt’s commitment to excellence and community contribution.

Commander 104 TS Bde visit May saw Brig Simon Smith MBE, Commander of 104 Theatre

8 165 Regt is the first unit in the British Army to receive and test the new Gemini 650 RIBs

Sustainment Brigade, visit 165 P&M Regt. The visit began with a demonstration and sea trial of the new Gemini 650 RIBs on the River Tamar and Plymouth Sound. At 265 Squadron, the Brigadier participated in a battle PT session followed by a fireside chat with personnel. Members of the Regt accompanied Brig Smith to Princess Yachts –one of the Regt’s industry partners –where the party toured production facilities and joined a sea trial aboard a 72ft luxury yacht. The visit facilitated by Honorary Colonel Adrian Bratt, further demonstrates another unique strength of the Army Reserve. The visit concluded with a visit to 232 Squadron in Cornwall with traditional pasties to mark Brig Smith’s departure as Comd of 104 TSB.

A look forward

The Regt is looking forward to the activity that lies ahead in the summer months. We will see personnel deploy to Norway on Ex NORWAY EXPRESS and the Regimental deployment on Ex MULBERRY CYCLONE.

8 Comd 104 TSB at Princess Yachts during his regimental visit

167 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps GRANTHAM

CO: Lt Col J Rathbone • Adjt: Capt C McColl • RSM: WO1 S Allison

167 Regiment RLC is a nationally recruited Army Reserve Regiment, providing sustainment support to operations and exercises across the UK and globally. The Regt has opportunities for Chefs, Comms Specs, LSS and staff officers. We welcome both new recruits and Regular to Reserve transfers. As a nationally recruited unit 167 Regt personnel have a reduced training commitment of just 19 days per year, though there are many options for greater commitments including mobilisation.

Ex ARMY SUSTAINER 25

With over 140 entries, over 25 units and five nations attending, this year’s Ex ARMY SUSTAINER proved a great success. The competition was hard fought across 14 categories – ranging from edible centrepieces, knife skills, to team field catering. The international cohort performed highly – with The Royal Army of Oman and Lithuanian Armed Forces chefs winning in a slew of categories. Representing 167 Regt, Pte Alfie

Jones was awarded Junior Chef of the year, while Cpl Hannah Marriot won two prizes – in the Hot Dessert and Centrepiece fields, for her “Hooch in a Hoody” chocolate sculpture. Across the competition, Army Chefs showed the flair, enthusiasm and rigorous determination that the trade is famous for.

Sporting excellence

167 Regt has embraced opportunities for individual and team sports and has achieved some well-earned prizes. Maj Kev Swinbourne led the regimental team to victory in the RLC’s inter unit Orienteering Championships at Deepcut. Capt Lucy Powell represented The RLC in Inter-Corps Water Polo, with the team securing second place. 112 Sqn’s LCpl Yvette Adair represented The RLC in the Inter-Corps 10km and has been selected for the UKAF Masters team for the Great North 10km.

Ex HUSKY BADGER

21 members of the Regt deployed on a Battlefield Study to Sicily, conducting conceptual training on the allied landings in southern Europe. Maj Ian Cooney led the exercise, focusing on logistical support to operations in the littoral zone. The study sought to draw comparison with the Regt’s current role within the Theatre Enabling Group, against those providing logistical support during Op HUSKY. The key learning outcomes focused on the leadership and moral component, C2 challenges, CSS planning, joint operations and adoption and adaptation of new technology. The nature of the operation was unfamiliar to the participants in terms of the operating environment and drew useful learning points in operating in a joint/multinational coalition. Members of the Regt also took the time to participate in the parkrun at Palermo with LCpl Andy Rawlinson completing his 200th.

8 Learning from the CSS lessons of WWII in Sicily

8 Judging at this year’s Ex ARMY SUSTAINER

8 167 Regt has seen team and individual sporting success

8 Cpl Marriot’s “Hooch in a Hoody” winning chocolate sculpture

British Forces South Atlantic Islands (BFSAI)

FALKLAND ISLANDS

DCOS: Lt Col D Askey RLC

Ex MARCH for Falkland Heroes

By

LCpl Vijay Gurung 748 Troop. On 29 Mar 25 against the backdrop of the rugged, windswept landscape of the Falklands, a powerful story of endurance, remembrance, and solidarity unfolded. Sixteen determined soldiers from the tri-service BFSAI embarked on a 50km march, each bearing a 20kg load, in a solemn tribute to the heroes of the 1982 Falklands War especially the revered Gurkhas of 1/7th G.R.

But this was no ordinary march. It was a pilgrimage of spirit and strength, culminating with the installation of a sacred Nepalese prayer wheel, the mani, at the 1/7th Gurkha Memorial.

A Spiritual Gift from Nepal

The mani a prayer wheel inscribed with ancient mantras is a powerful symbol of peace and eternal remembrance. When spun clockwise, it is believed to release prayers into the world. By placing this sacred object at the Gurkha Memorial, the marchers honoured not only their fallen forefathers but granted visitors the ability to pay silent tribute through spiritual connection.

The day began at 0630hrs. After a heartfelt introduction by Vijay Raj Gurung (OIC), a historical reflection from Tulsi (IC), and safety and mobility checks led by PTIs Yukesh and Jalan, the team set off promptly at 0700.

The 50km route to the Gurkha Memorial, divided into five gruelling checkpoints, pushed participants

far beyond physical endurance it became a test of spirit and willpower.

As the Gurkha Memorial finally came into view, marchers were welcomed by the cheers of supporters an emotional crescendo that transformed pain into pride, and endurance into honour.

After a final brief and muchneeded rest, the team mounted the prayer wheel at the memorial. It was not just a symbolic gesture it was a spiritual offering. Now, anyone who visits can spin the wheel and send a prayer to those who gave their all. The mani, blending cultural heritage and military honour, now stands as a beacon of remembrance for generations to come.

Volleyball and momo

Later that day, the energy shifted to celebration. The largest volleyball tournament in Falklands history kicked off, with 14 teams, including four civilian squads, competing in a spirit of camaraderie and unity.

To top it all off, a charity momo event serving delicious Nepalese

dumplings dished out smiles with every plate. It wasn’t just food; it was culture, comfort, and connection; boosting morale and bridging communities.

A Day That Gave Back

This day was also about giving. Thanks to collective efforts and the generosity of all involved, an impressive £5,595 was raised. After key expenses, £4,805 shared between MPC School and the Gurkha Welfare Trust, supporting education and welfare both in the Falklands and Nepal.

One day, many legacies

The day was a living testament to service, sacrifice, and unity. From the solemn silence of the march to the roar of volleyball cheers and the warmth of shared meals, it reminded all who took part and all who witnessed that remembering the past doesn’t have to mean staying in it.

By honouring those who came before, embracing the present, and investing in future generations, this remarkable day in the Falklands proved that even on the most remote edge of the world, humanity, courage, and compassion endure.

British Forces Brunei - RLC Logistic Support BRUNEI

SO3 Log Sp: Capt J Main • GCWO: WO1 S Loghmani

New ways of working in British Forces Brunei

The RLC personnel within British Forces Brunei (BFB) have been busy preparing for the changeover of units within the garrison. 1 Royal Gurkha Rifles is being relieved by 2 Royal Gurkha Rifles as the resident Infantry Battalion, and 230 Squadron, Royal Air Force is being replaced by 667 Squadron, Army Air Corps. These changes in personnel, equipment, and resources present fresh opportunities and challenges, encouraging new ways of working as a unit. Currently the RLC departments are working hard to improve and modernise systems of working, to allow for an easy transition for our dependencies.

Brunei Ammunition Storage Depot

The ammunition department has been busy conducting the largest ammunition movement in Brunei since the COVID-19 pandemic. This saw the team working with local authorities and contractors, building and maintaining local relations through the heavy output. This ammunition in-load will ensure our dependencies have the correct munitions to train and operate with, a key function of our presence in South-East Asia. Simultaneously, the department just had its yearly inspection from the Inspectorate Explosives (Army) (IE(A)). A thorough preparation ensured we can continue our best practices and look to make improvements to our systems and processes.

The Brunei QOGLR

Detachment

There has been a focus on community within the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (QOGLR) Detachment in Brunei, as it has unveiled its new QOGLR Community Centre. The opening ceremony was conducted on the 22 Apr 25 by Lt Col John Jeffcoat (Commander British Forces Brunei and CO 1 RGR). This centre provides the QOGLR personnel and their families a space to relax and

organise events, cohering the team and encouraging growth within our community.

Brunei Movement Control Centre

The BFB Movement Control Centre (MCC) has been practicing modern methods of working in Brunei for the last few years, embracing the introduction of the DSCOMOperational Scheduling & Demand Application (DOSDA). This is a single worksite for a Defence Planning Execution Cycle (DPEC) which allows the MCC to ensure future tasks are planned in good order and effectively. DPEC is updated throughout the deployment cycle of units and leads to the allocation of assets including aircraft as well as ships. DOSDA also allows the MCC to track allocations through an Airlift or Sealift Programme, using technology to best effect to manage our busy programme. This relatively new digitalised method

of processing requests and allocations helps provide a simpler overview of movements, while having the capability to link into other systems in the future.

Kailas Penang Skyrace 2025

On 26 Apr 25, SSgt Sagar Limbu and Cpl Sanjay Limbu from BFB Garrison participated in the 30km Kailas Penang Skyrace held in George Town, Penang, Malaysia. The event supported two charitable causes: Help for Heroes and the Garrison PRI, raising a total of £556. The race presented significant challenges, traversing undulating mountain trails with a cumulative elevation gain just above 2,350 meters. Despite the demanding terrain, intense heat, humidity and all the chaos in between, they pushed through and completed the race in seven gruelling hours.

8 The QOGLR Community Centre opening

8 The Kailas Penang Skyrace

British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK)

NANYUKI

SO2 CSS: Maj A Griffiths • SO3 CSS: Capt D Cook • BOWO: WO1 D Mensah

BATUK’s role is to deliver combined light role and combat service support (CSS) foundation exercises throughout the year, for the British Army on dedicated training areas within Kenya, to deliver success on current and future operations.

BATUK CSS

BATUK CSS fulfils the management and co-ordination of the 2nd Line Storehouse and Ammo Depot in support of the Unit's training delivery function. It is also responsible for MT Fuel Installations (MTFIs) and the movement control of passengers and freight. BATUK CSS is spread across the barracks at Nanyuki and Nairobi and holds around a £14.5m Custodian Account. The BATUK CSS team consists of military permanent staff, temporary deployed staff who are mobilised from 3-12 months, and Kenyan locally employed civilians.

Ex BULL STORM

At the time of writing, BATUK CSS is currently supporting Ex BULL STORM, consisting of an integrated brigade-level (11 Brigade) exercise of blank and live firing exercises (totalling £2.3m of ammunition supplied) from May-Jun 25. The exercise itself has two phases: CYCLONE (Sub-Unit training) and STORM (Brigade

Group Combined Arms Manoeuvre in a warfighting scenario, against a peer/peer threat).

Ex BULL STORM Dedicated

CSS Group

Supporting 11 Brigade on Ex BULL STORM is a dedicated CSS Group, led by 23 General Support Squadron from 1 Regt RLC. Drivers, Log Spec Suppliers and Comms Specs from across the Regt have deployed to Kenya to manage 2nd Line logistic accounts and move equipment and material around the BATUK training areas to enable the successful conduct of 11 Brigade’s exercise.

Maj Fleming, OC 23 (GS) Sqn says: “1 RLC is currently implementing a ‘pivot to warfighting under a change programme called ‘Project Tyr’. Deployment to the austere and challenging environment of BATUK has therefore provided the Squadron with a valuable opportunity to refine dispersed ways of working and to innovate with novel distribution methodologies informed by lessons learned from Ukraine, to better prepare for a return to conventional conflict.”

During this exercising period BATUK CSS, becomes a 3rd Line supply and will be overseeing the movement and replenishment during the exercise. Looking ahead,

BATUK CSS is already preparing for Ex HAKARI STORM, a battle group-level exercise scheduled to take place in Sep 25.

RLC Opportunities

BATUK has opportunities for almost every RLC Trade (Regular and Reserve), including Driver, Logistics Supply Specialist, Petroleum Operator, Postal & Courier Operator, Chef, Movement Controller, Ammunition Technician, Comms Specialist and Systems Analyst.

Life at BATUK

The leisure facilities at BATUK are extremely good, with plenty of opportunities to undertake adventure training packages and courses which include mountain biking, rock climbing, archery and kayaking amongst others. Opportunities also arise to get involved with various outreach work within local schools and communities. There are also plenty of sports to partake in, with a sports afternoon every Wednesday, and an excellent gym. Away from work, there are local cafes, bars and restaurants to visit nearby and the chance to explore places such as Nairobi and Mombasa - or enjoy a wildlife safari!

8 The BATUK 2nd Line RLC Stores Troop

British Forces Cyprus

JOINT LOGISTIC SQUADRON (JLS)

OC: Maj T Saddleton RLC • SMM: WO1 D Wilson RAF

New Ways of Working –Postal Courier Troop

The role of Postal and Courier Operators is a rapidly evolving sector, and as the largest Forces Post Office (FPO) outside of the UK, Postal Courier Tp is at the forefront of this change. The first forces postal organisation was formed in the 18th Century and has undergone a significant transformation. Traditionally, PC Ops were responsible for handling all paperwork manually, resulting in slower operations, confined scheduling, and were more prone to human error.

With the assistance of the Postal and Courier Electronic Records (PACER), the speed, accuracy, and reliability of the postal services within the Armed Forces has improved. The PACER system has also reduced manual errors, through the integration of portable hand scanners used within FPOs. Mail sorting has been automated, and audit trails have been made more comprehensible ensuring accountability and traceability.

Advanced automations, like Optical Character Recognition (OCR) streamlines operations in BFPO HQ. The BFPO’s responsibilities regarding secure handling, transport protocols and delivery, has been optimised through the incorporation of digital oversight, and the use of civilian contractors (CPPC). Furthermore, flexible work arrangements have enhanced collaboration and communication in the workplace.

Despite these improvements, Brexit has implemented new tax regulations regarding military mail, decreasing the volume of mail to less than 300 a day. Only a selected number of personnel are permitted to handle Diplomatic Courier Service (DCS) mail, due to the security requirements.

The innovation has, advanced the quality of work and improved employee satisfaction. The integration of technology has completely transformed the roles of

PC Operators, furthering the value they bring to the UK’s Armed Forces.

Movement Support Troop

Separately, this period has seen Movement Support Troop (MST) at the forefront of delivering and enabling operations, processing several tonnes of freight at short notice during Op ARENGA. In addition, Cpl Williams and LCpl Adu Sarfo deployed to enable the Defence Engagement exercise Ex OLIVE GROVE in support of the Resident Infantry Battalion (RIB) 1 PWRR. These exercises are critical to sustaining the UK’s presence in the region and building relationships with regional partner nations.

MST’s contributions were

recognised and recently caught the attention of the PM, The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer, during his visit to RAF Akrotiri. Touring the base and engaging with personnel, the Prime Minister acknowledged the team’s hard work and dedication to global operations.

A posting to British Forces Cyprus offers more than just an exciting professional opportunity. MST’s experience has shown this, as they made the most of the AT available on island, placing themselves in stretch and developing personally. LCpl Adu Sarfo completed a rock-climbing course with the Cyprus AT Centre and LCpl Ellis embraced a new adventure on the snowy slopes of France, participating in a Skiing Foundation course.

Displaying dedication, resilience, and teamwork, MST showed its commitment to physical fitness by taking part in the gym-to-gym half marathon, and facilitating other sporting events on the island, such as the BFC Inter Services Football competition. SSgt Handley and Sgt Johnstone were key to this series of events, acting as organisers and officials throughout.

8 LCpl Adu Sarfo completed a rock-climbing course following participation on Ex OLIVE GROVE

8 New technology has driven efficiencies and reduced errors in the BFPO in Cyprus

Logistics Information Services Troop 13 Signal Regiment BICESTER

TROOPWO: WO1 (SSM) N Nelson RLC

This summer has seen a period of high operational tempo and significant professional development for Logistic Information Services Troop (LIST). The team has delivered across multiple domains, showcasing adaptability, technical expertise, and a steadfast commitment to operational effectiveness.

A key highlight was the rollout of Non-Data Centre Hardware (NDCH), which has now reached Interim Operating Capability. NDCH replaces the legacy Logistics Information Deployable Hardware and marks a change in capability. Live Services led this critical delivery, ensuring equipment was configured to user specifications, delivering mobile roadshow-style training, and providing seamless integration through both online and overseas installations. Supporting this, JSMAT played a critical role in material accounting and the coordinated movement of equipment, ensuring the right assets were in the right place at the right time. Analysts also provided level three support to large

contingents while undergoing trade-specific training to deepen technical capability across both the troop and the wider user base.

In parallel, LIST supported the implementation of the newly signed JAMES Operational Level Agreement (OLA), configuring and accounting for readiness stocks to reinforce our ability to maintain the Joint Asset Management and

Engineering Solution (JAMES) across the battlespace. These efforts underpin our readiness posture, ensuring tracked assets are accounted for and user ready. Beyond core outputs, two Systems Analysts achieved SANS accreditation, demonstrating our commitment to developing worldclass cyber and technical skills. The Troop also engaged in broader initiatives, including a visit to the Houses of Parliament, representing 13 Signal Regiment at Exercise RACE THE SUN, and continuing our collaboration with Techmodal after the signing of the Systems Analyst Affiliation Document. This work will see us explore the future of ‘Big Data’ and its application within Defence.

Looking ahead, recruitment remains a key priority. LIST’s campaign continues to expand its reach, inspiring the next generation of digital logisticians to join the trade. As we grow, LIST remains poised to support defence outputs with agility, precision, and professionalism.

8 Sgt U Singh configuring NDCH LogIS prior to the rollout

8 Sgt Rigamoto and Sgt H Singh receiving their SANS accreditation

The 250 Divisional Airborne Light Composite Company RASC, served as part of 1st Airborne Division and was initially raised from the former 31 Independent Infantry Brigade Coy RASC. The parachute platoons of 250 Coy had a secondary role as the defence platoon of the brigade to which they would be attached.

The Coy deployed to North Africa, Sicily and Italy prior to returning to the UK in December 1943 for subsequent operations. 250 Coy made Longhills Hall, Branston its base and undertook further resupply by air courses and practiced supply drops at both brigade and divisional level.

Re-named 250 Airborne Light Composite Company, it deployed in the first and second lifts of Operation Market Garden in September 1944.

The Coy supported the brigade advance and lodgement at the Arnhem bridge with an ammunition resupply and supported the establishment of a supply dump near the Hartenstein Hotel and defended the perimeter. After nine days of continuous fighting, the survivors were extracted in boats and taken back to Nijmegen. Of the 10 Officers and 243 Soldiers who landed only five officers, and 83 soldiers made good their escape.

John Griffiths a retired RAF Flight Sergeant wants to undertake a full renovation of the 250 (Airborne) Company RASC, Arnhem memorial, which is situated in the grounds of Longhills Hall.

He explains: "It all started in 1985 when a dozen or so 250 (Airborne) Coy RASC WW2 veterans got together in Heighington, Lincoln. They had all been billeted at Longhills, Branston, prior to Arnhem. Mr James (Jim) Wild, of Heighington, got the idea of a reunion when the men, all members of the Arnhem Veterans Association, gathered in Holland in 1984.

Over the period 22-24 May 1992, the veterans held their eighth reunion at Branston, with veterans attending from as far away as Canada. Jim and Mabel Wild organised the placing of the memorial, near Longhills Hall, on land now owned by Mr Bentley Nelstrop.

The 250 (Airborne) Company RASC, Arnhem memorial

Further reunions were held in May 1994 and May 1995 but, sadly, the May 1995 reunion was the last. Now too old to travel the veterans decided that the VE Day celebrations, which coincided with their annual reunion, would be the finale. Over 60 people met at the Turks Head pub, in Heighington. Their annual visit always consisted of a visit to Longhills Hall, and the cow sheds the soldiers spent time in, prior to Arnhem. Mr and Mrs Bentley

Nelstrop hosted the old soldiers, for a lunch at Westfield Farm.

Earlier this year, I contacted Mr Robert Nelstrop, son of Bentley Nelstrop, seeking permission to clean the memorial (it still being located on grounds owned by him). Robert was incredibly supportive of my efforts. When I visited the memorial, however, it was clear other people were visiting it, with a couple of RBL wreaths laid at the memorial. Despite my best efforts, though, and the Parish Council's, we have been unable to identify who placed the wreaths at the Longhills memorial. Mindful that they may have a family connection to Mr & Mrs Wild (or other now sadly passed veterans) I am wary of doing too much to the memorial. The plaque needs replacing as do some of the slabs and gravel but, until I'm quite sure I'm not treading on anyone's toes, a full renovation will have to wait.

That said, I did visit on the morning of 13 May 2025 and, with the kind assistance of a Mr Maurice Thacker (who lives near the memorial), I gave it a good clean. I think it's come up lovely. I am hoping someone will see this article and get in touch, regarding the full renovation.”

13 January 1954 –19 May 2025

Richard Mark Baker was born in Malmsbury,Wiltshire on the 13th of January 1954. Mark attended Devizes Grammar School and at seventeen he went to Welbeck – the Defence Sixth Form College - where he excelled at sport from the outset and later became head of his house and head boy of the College, as well as Company Sergeant Major of the Army Cadet Force. He was commissioned in June 1973; his stature and bearing having caught the attention of Academy Sergeant Major Huggins who selected him as a stick orderly. He met Jane just before going to Sandhurst. She attended his commissioning parade, and they got engaged soon after.

After attending the Troop Commanders Course, Mark was posted as a Troop Commander to 3 Tank Transporter Squadron based in Sennelager, which included a Northern Ireland tour. An infantry attachment for six months followed with 3 Royal Anglian, followed by a rewarding tour at the RCT Junior Leaders Regiment in Taunton, which was ideal for the newly-weds.

Several postings within Germany followed. As squadron 2IC in 3 Division Transport Regiment, mark was seconded to HQ Northern Ireland as a watchkeeper. Mark then went to 2 Division Transport Regiment in Bunde. In 1986 Mark was deployed on operations with the United Nations Multinational Force and Observers in the Sinai.

In 1987 Mark returned to Sennelager, to be OC 3 Tank Transporter Squadron. He relished managing the special challenges of operating the huge tank transporter vehicles with their exceptional 80-ton loads and leading the robust and highly experienced soldiers that drove and supervised these valuable loads.

In 1989 as a grade 2 staff officer he moved to PB8, the custodian of promotions and postings for RCT officers. The endless visits to regiments and units allowed him to become acquainted with all the officers’ messes and their bars across the RCT. His stamina, advice and candour were widely respected. An exchange posting to Australia followed as SO2 Log Ops in the Australian Land Headquarters during which he deployed as part of the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia. Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 1994, he was chosen for

regimental command as the first non-Pioneer officer to command 23 Pioneer Regiment, shortly after the formation of The Royal Logistic Corps.

A posting to Turkey followed as the Chief J4 Logistics in the NATO Headquarters where he deployed to Macedonia and Kosovo. In September 2001, he returned to the UK to the Army Personnel Centre Glasgow; as the Staff Officer Grade 1, responsible for all RLC soldiers and trades, close to 20,000 of them, for three years. Soon after he was selected become the Regimental Colonel of The Royal Logistic Corps. He was a very natural fit for the job and excelled at it. He was responsible for hosting and briefing Princess Anne on numerous occasions, in her capacity as Colonel-In-Chief of The RLC.

On retirement from the Regular Army in July 2009, Mark stayed close to soldiers by becoming a Captain of Invalids at the Royal Chelsea Hospital for eight years. The wellbeing of people was always Mark’s highest priority, and he was totally authentic in the way he cared for those in his charge at Chelsea. Mark’s career completed a profound full circle when Academy Sergeant Major Ray Huggins joined Chelsea Hospital as an In-Pensioner. Mark’s virtues and stature led him to being selected for placement on the waiting list to be one of the Military Knights of Windsor, just before his illness deteriorated. Disappointingly, he was thus unable to pursue this placement.

Mark, with enduring, strong support from Jane, showed boundless generosity and enthusiasm for entertaining guests throughout his 37-year army career and beyond. He was one of those rare people who brought true joy to those he met; it was always a pleasure to bump into him, sit next to him or meet with him and to hear his banter as well as his infectious laugh. Senior, junior or equal, everyone benefitted from his most affable company. His funeral on 26 June, in the small church where he was married fifty years previously, saw over three hundred friends, family and In-Pensioners gather to say farewell to this much-loved and respected officer and gentleman.

Based on input from Mark himself and family members.Subsequently written by Lieutenant Colonel Paul Duncan,RASC & RCT Council Secretary and Colonel MikeToms.

8 Colonel Richard Mark Baker

It is with deep sadness that I write in memory of a great friend, husband, father, successful business leader and former officer of the Corps –Andrew (Andy) Rhodes. Andy passed away quite unexpectedly in Colchester earlier this month.

My knowledge of his early career is somewhat limited – as I suspect were his memories, for he was keen to enjoy life to the full. I know that having commissioned in 1993, his early career included a start in the inimitable and much missed halls of 23 Pioneer Regiment before moving to 4 Regiment at Abingdon after a spell at ITC Catterick. For my part, I remember his service as part of 16 Air Assault Brigade: at 13 Regiment as Adjutant and subsequently Ops Officer, returning to the Regiment as OC 15 Squadron and subsequently in the Brigade HQ as DCOS. Each appointment coincided with tours to Afghanistan including the first deployments to Kabul and Helmand.

Throughout his time, he established a reputation as utterly professional, an independent and creative thinker and someone with a great deal of compassion and consideration for others, particularly his soldiers. Weather galvanising a disparate joint-service team of fire fighters to cover the Suffolk fire service strikes at very little notice or deploying the first close support squadron to Helmand as part of 3 PARA Battle Group, he proved a skilful, energetic and hardworking leader.

Andy was a keen rugby player and fan. He was a keen supporter of all sports and particularly regimental boxing whilst at 13 Regiment. A true “petrol head” – he loved sporty cars and was never happier than with grease under his fingernails. Latterly, he rekindled his love of motorbikes and enjoyed touring in Europe and planned to do more.

Andy had a true sense of fun and would take any opportunity to wind up others. I remember well the faux evangelism with

which he pursued veganism – driven by health reasons initially but fanned by the incredulity of others. The more it wound them up the more devout he became. And when the noise stopped… so did he.

One who always found time for others, he took a genuine interest in people. These gentlemanly and inclusive qualities have created lasting friendships in military and civilian life and leaves so many with that profound sense of loss.

Andy left a promising military career in 2009. After an initial stint running terminal operations at Stansted Airport, he developed a skill set in construction logistics. This would lead to appointments on major infrastructure projects such as HS2, the development of Battersea Power Station, redevelopment at Aldermaston and others.

Not one to look back, he did maintain some contacts with his past military life through friends. He also actively supported several people as they were going through the journey into civilian life after the Army. It was this that led him to Buildforce and as an ambassador and mentor for the programme, he was glad to have found the right channel for something he felt so passionate about.

Notwithstanding all the activity and hobbies, the one constant in his life has been his family. In Vicky, he found a soul mate and best friend; one whose character made the perfect ying to his yang. For those who knew Andy well, we understand how that could be a challenging portfolio for anyone but Vicky; and he loved and appreciated her for it. In Joe, their son, he never stopped sharing how he was progressing and how proud he was of him and his achievements.

Andy leaves us bereft for the loss of such a larger-than-life person from all our lives but forever grateful to have shared some fantastic times together.

By Lt Col (Retd) Neale Jouques OBE

(Retired)

LAST POST

Aird - In December 2024, Mr (ex SSgt) IJE Aird RAOC

Alexander - On 16 May 2025, Lt Col (Retd) MCS

Alexander RCT/RLC

Alvey - On 21 March 2025, Mr WH Alvey RCT

Anderson - On 1 February 2024, Mr (ex-WO1) P G Anderson RAOC

Armstrong - On 8 Janaury 2025, Mr M R Armstrong RAOC

Atkinson - On 31 March 2025, Maj (Retd) M N Atkinson RAOC

Baker - On 19 May 2025, Col (Retd) RM Baker RCT/RLC

Barnes - On 19 April 2024, Capt (Retd) A M Barnes RAOC

Buinitaria - On 28 July 2025, Sgt AT Buinitaria

RLC/AGC

Bunting - On 1 March 2025, Mr (ex-WO2) B W

Bunting RAOC

Cammack - On 24 February 2025, Mr (ex-WO1) W Cammack RAOC

Carlyon - On 26 April 2025, Mr (ex-WO1) S M Carlyon RAOC

Cockram - On 5 May 2025, Mr WM Cockram RASC/RAOC

Craig - On 17 July 2025, Mr (ex Sgt) AC Craig RLC

Crawford - On 25 June 2025, Sgt K Crawford RLC

Davidson - On 1 May 2025, Maj (Retd) A Davidson TD RCT/RLC

Davies - On 23 June 2025, Maj (Retd OEO) T T Davies RAOC

Davies-Pellow - On 8 June 2025, Capt (Retd) D J G

Devies-Pellow RAOC

Dixon - On 2 February 2025, Mrs JJ Dixon

Dugard - On 5 July 2025, Mr A Dugard RCT

Dymond - On 5 May 2024, Mr R L Dymond RAOC

Eden - On 31 May 2025, Mr G Eden RCT

Elliot - 12 January 2025, Mr E M Elliot BEM RAOC

Elliott - On 13 May 2025, Mr M Elliott RAOC

Evans - On 3 May 2025, Mr JH Evans RCT

Evans - On 9 May 2025, Mr D Evans RAOC

Farrington - On 27 February 2025, Mr J Farrington RAOC

French - On 1 May 2025, Lt Col (Retd) PI French MBE RASC/RCT

Gale - On 14 July 2025, Mr D Gale

Garlick - On 12 June 2025, Mr W Garlick RCT

Gibson - On 21 October 2024, Mr W Gibson RAOC

Goodwin - On 14 March 2025, Mr (ex-WO1) G Goodwin RAOC

Griffith - On 14 June 2025, Mr C Griffith RCT

Groutage - On 30 April 2025, Mr R Groutage RCT

Hall - On 14 June 2025, Mr P Hall RAOC

Hammond - On 14 December 2024, Mr A Hammond RAOC

Harban - On 4 June 2025, Col (Retd) BJ Harban MBE late RASC/RCT

Hill - On 12 June 2025, Mr D Hill RCT

Holt - On 4 March 2025, Mr F G Holt RAOC

Hunt - On 30 May 2025, Mr L A Hunt RAOC

Hutchings - On 14 February 2024, Maj (Retd) RJ Hutchings RASC/RCT

Hutton - On 13 February 2025, Mrs M Hutton RCT

Lambert - On 17 March 2025, Mr B Lambert RAOC

Lane - On 6 July 2025, Mr A Lane RCT

Long - On 15 May 2025, Mr BP Long RCT

Madgwick - On 18 May 2025, Mr R Madgwick

Manuel - On 12 April 2025, Col (Retd) W J Manuel

OBE late RAOC

McCallum - On 22 February 2025, Mr J McCallum RAOC

McCulloch - On 1 June 2025, Lt Col (Retd) B D

McCulloch RAOC

McGill - On 29 May 2025, Capt (Retd) R W McGill RAOC

McKinnon - On 22 February 2025, Maj (Retd) I A McKinnon RAOC

McLeod - On 1 June 2025, Mr W McLeod RCT

Mears - On 27 September 2023, Col (Retd) PS Mears late RASC/RCT

Mercer - On 28 February 2025, Col (Retd) C H

Mercer Late RAOC

Moutray - On 30 May 2025, Mr (ex WO2) A Moutray RLC

Muirhead - On 11 April 2025, Capt (Retd) RH Muirhead MBE RASC

Munday - On 16 May 2025, Mr P H R Munday MBE BEM RAOC

Nicholls - On 21 July 2025, WO1 GR Nicholls RLC

Norton - On 22 April 2025, Mr R Norton RASC/RCT

Orrell - On 30 June 2025, Maj (Retd) GW Orrell TD RASC/RCT

Pain - On 19 March 2025, Lt (Retd) BM Pain CBE QPM

Paul - On 11 June 2025, Mr MD Paul RASC/RCT

Pearce - On 21 September 2024, Lt Col (Retd) F R Pearce RAOC

Ratazzi - On 6 June 2025, Brig (Retd) RE Rattazzi CBE late RCT/RLC

Rhodes - on 6 June 2025, Maj (Retd) AJ Rhodes RLC

Robinson - On 18 March 2025, Capt (Retd) T E

Robinson QGM RAOC

Scott - On 9 February 2025, Mr R Scott RAOC

Sider - On 27 February 2025, Maj (Retd) R W Sider

BEM RAOC

Simkiss - On 13 January 2025, Mr A Simkiss RAOC

Smith - On 26 February 2025, Mr G H P Smith RAOC

Southam - On 7 May 2025, Mr R W Southam RAOC

Spencer - On 16 June 2025, Mr JH Spencer

RASC/RCT

Stafford - On 29 May 2025, Mr W Stafford RAOC

Sunderland - On 24 April 2025, Mr D Sunderland RAOC

Tedstone - On 11 July 2025, Mr N Tedstone

RASC/RCT

Thompson - On 29 May 2025, Mr R Thompson RCT

Tinker - On 12 June 2025, Mr B Tinker RAOC

Walton - On 2 March 2025, Col (Retd) P S Walton late RAOC

Warne - On 3 March 2025, Mr A Warne RAOC

Whittall - On 14 March 2025, Mr R Whittall RAOC

York - On 26 April 2025, Col (Retd) R J York late RAOC