The Sustainer Winter 2024 by Holbrooks Printers Ltd

Sustainer THE

Corps Motto:

by Albert Elms

March: Lion, Sword and Crown by Craig Bywater

The RLC’s publications are the responsibility of the RLC Heritage Committee due to the role they play in recording the Corps’ history.

This magazine as The RLC’s principal journal has a charter defined by the Heritage Committee. It is: “To record 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 the 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.”

This charter is published below in every edition. The reason I am highlighting this to you, is over the last 18 months some RLC units have been unclear whether they must submit a unit report for every edition. Paragraph 1 of Annex A to RLC Corps Instruction I-Series 13 states: “All regular and reserve RLC regiments and independent sub-units are required to submit a unit report for each issue of the magazine.” One reason for this is The Sustainer forms part of The RLC’s official historical record. The other is the journal plays a key role in keeping the whole Corps family informed and in touch.

EDITOR’S NOTE

I respectfully request that Commanding Officers ensure their units submit their reports or request extensions by the published deadlines. I also request that the requirement above forms part of handover/takeover between Adjutants as unit Adjutants are our primary points of contact.

Official business done, I would like to thank the RLC personnel and troops attached to other formations and regiments for their contributions to this edition. 40% of The RLC are attached and keeping them in touch with their Corps has always been a challenge. While this edition was focussed on their stories, we welcome input from the 40% –or our extended family as we have titled the articles – in every edition.

Finally thank you to everyone who has contributed to The Sustainer over the last 12 months. I fully appreciate how busy you are with commitments and taking time out to write reports and articles is additional work. But if you don’t, what you do will be lost to those who follow. I would like to wish our readers and contributors a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

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:

Spring 25 - 4 Mar 25, Summer - 5 Jul 25, Winter –6 Oct 25

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

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

Email: peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 7901 676309

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

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

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

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

Advertising: 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.

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: Ex NORTHERN STRIKE 24. Image: Sgt C Eden RLC Media

THE MASTER GENERAL OF LOGISTICS

Major General JEA Chestnutt CBE

It’s been quite a year. Everyone reading this will have their own reflections: Deployment on Op Tours; support to NATO commitments; modernisation; professional development; sporting success. If we compile a list between us all, it will be endless and typifies a year that’s marked with incredible individual and team success.

As I reflect on the last eight months as your 4th Master General, I would associate 2024 with the letter ‘C’. Why? Because I see a corps that’s committed, credible, cohesive and competitive. Visiting units and hearing your stories, I also see a strong and vibrant community.

Across the globe, we retain our sprit of excellence and professionalism. Committed at Readiness or serving overseas in support of Army or Joint deployments, you remain trusted and credible partners across NATO.Your collaboration with US and Partner Forces has delivered outstanding success during Op LINOTYPER, and in support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. So too have you earnt your spurs – especially for those aligned to high readiness forces or in niche trades – in support of those operating across the Middle East. We live in troublesome times, but your resolute commitment to providing assured logistic support has been incredible.

What’s made a tangible difference has been your entrepreneurial sprint to innovate and adapt our way of winning.You have risen to CGS’ challenge to increase our fighting power.You know the way we deliver logistic support in competition, crisis and conflict must change. The way you’ve embraced change – or sought to create it - has been so impressive.You are leading the way in trying to increase our survivability, enhance our communications, and think differently about how we support forces across extensive lines of communication.

In my visits, I see a corps family that is faster, fitter and ready for what lies ahead. If you ever wanted a more visceral and gritty demonstration of that, then I encourage you to visit or compete in the Corps’ Annual Military Skills Competition.

That drive to be the very best is equally apparent on the sports field. Our first Corps Sports Competition in early summer was a superb success. So too was the Corps dominance at the Army’s Sports Awards. Both were priceless opportunities to celebrate the importance of sport in building personal and team resilience, and to recognise the breadth and diversity of talent we have across our Corps. There are very few sports where the Corps isn’t on the podium, or commanding vitally important management roles at Army, Combined or National level.

To enable you to deliver success, your senior leadership have taken active measures to tighten up our governance and focus on what matters most to you. Many will be aware of the significant changes made to your Corps Charity and the RLC Foundation – now rebranded as RLC Connect. The same applies to the RLC Council, Executive Committee and Regimental Affairs Committee. Each board has refreshed its membership, charters, cadence and outputs, so that they better align with the Corps’ Strategy and Plan for betterment. Across the entire serving and retired community, I know that all our Senior Leadership – now united around a single vision and purpose – are dedicated to ensuring we are delivering initiatives and change that matter most to our Corps, now and into the future.

If we get this right, we’ll be well set for 2025 and beyond. To do that, we need to keep communicating. That’s why I’ve asked your Corps HQ to focus hard on this into 2025, looking at all the available tools so that we can share best practice, and continue to learn. The first thing we’ll share will be a revised MGL Reading list which I’d encourage you all to help keep relevant. So, if you read something that you know will help others, then please let the HQ know.

That leaves only one “C” left – Christmas. For those who can get away, do enjoy that special time and recharge your batteries so you’re ready for the challenges ahead. And for those who remain at readiness or deployed over the Christmas break; take good care of yourself and we all wish you speedy and safe return.

We Sustain.

At the 2024 Army Sports Awards held at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst on 14 November The RLC won four of the 10 awards presented on the night. They included the top awards of Army Sportsman of the Year and Major Unit of the Year. This fantastic achievement that showcases the Corps’ winning mindset and the unique Army Offer that sporting opportunities provide.

Army Sportsman of the Year

Cpl Steve Cox

Born and raised in Zimbabwe; Cpl Steve Cox is a world-class athlete who represented his country in the single sculls at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Rowing from an early age, Cpl Cox won gold in national and international junior events before joining The RLC. He took a five-year break from the sport to pursue his career in the British Army and returned to competitive rowing in 2016. Over the last eight years he has competed at 10 World Cups, five World Championships and this year’s Olympic Games. As a soldier he has shown equal talent, coming top of his recruit intake and winning an award on the All-Arms Commando Course.

Army Sports Official of the Year

Cpl Andrew Cook

Cpl Andrew Cook is a Port Op in 17 P&M Regt RLC. In his 7th season as a registered official with English Ice Hockey his contribution to the sport, both military and civilian has been outstanding. Cpl Cook not only manages the games in the Elite Ice Hockey league, he is also a key

The RLC at the top of its game

player in the RLC Ice Hockey team and is a media rep for the Army Ice Hockey Association.

Major Unit of the Year

1 Regiment RLC

1 Regt RLC won the Major Unit of the Year Award receiving twice the number of votes of its closest rival in the category. The Regt encourages and supports its personnel to

compete in as many grassroot level sports as possible and has been successful as a unit in several sports including Tug-of-War, Boxing, Skiing and Cross-Country. The Regt’s recognition is especially notable as was achieved despite a backdrop of demanding operational commitments.

Reserve Unit of the Year

165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC

Thanks to its mantra of ‘give it a go’, 165 P&M Regt RLC was named Reserve Unit of the Year for the second year running at the 2024 Army Sports Awards. The Regt is fortunate to count many good athletes among its ranks including Olympian Lt Kerenza Bryson, who has been a source of inspiration for her fellow reservists. But its secret is it advertises army sport widely and encourages its reservists to participate whenever possible, resulting in some of newest soldiers having been talent spotted by Army teams in recent months.

Photo credit: © Alligin (UK) Ltd 2022 / British Army Sports

‘‘I will be asking you to unite under a new Corps Strategy and help me revolutionise the way the Corps communicates with one another in an increasingly digitised fashion

A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE

And there it is,‘blink and you miss it’, a whole year passes, and what a fantastic year it has been.

Christmas and the New Year is a time for both personal and professional reflection, and also a time to look forward to the excitement and challenges of the year ahead.

Firstly, to reflect. The year for the Corps has been if not the busiest, then probably one of the most diverse on record. I say this as a result of the enormous complexity of the operations and exercises our people have supported; from building our partnering relationships with NATO allies on Op LINOTYPER, Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER and on Op CABRIT, to ensuring the legacy of previous conflicts are resolved morally in the work our people are doing in support of Op LAZURITE. Challenges have also been felt in the recruiting space, with numerous personnel involved in the Army Experience 24 and those routinely engaged in ATTRACT and NURTURE activity to ensure a constant flow of capable people into our Corps. To you all, I am enormously grateful for everything you have done.

The Corps has achieved unprecedented success on the sporting front with almost an embarrassment of riches at the Army Sports Awards; Best Regular Unit, Best Reserve Unit, Regular Unit Runner Up, Reserve Unit Runner Up and also third place in both of those categories too, the bragging rights go on… Individual successes included Cpl Cox taking the crown as Sportsman of the Year and Cpl Cook taking the Best Official Award. Genuinely I am in awe of what our Corps does, and we must continue to be proud of our achievements as we go about our daily business. At the grass roots level, the RLC Festival of Sport in July brought together sportspeople from across the Corps to enjoy a day

The Colonel RLC of sport and family entertainment. More recently the Military Skills Competition provided an opportunity for members of the Corps, old and new, to prove their metal in a testing competition held at DST Leconfield. The ARRC Support Battalion and 1 Regiment RLC becoming overall male and female champions respectively.

Personally I reflect on a whirlwind three months as Corps Col. Whilst I can probably no longer say ‘new’ I can say I am very much still in the understand phase and I am hugely grateful to everyone; from the soldiers of 25 Regiment who spoke so candidly to me at the military skills competition, the wonderful individuals I meet whilst out and about, to the unit command teams, and senior leadership, who have brought me up to speed. Each one has made a unique and indelible mark on me which I hope I can use to the benefit of the Corps going forward.

And so, looking forward. 2025 promises to be another challenging year, potentially on an unprecedented scale. Deployments around the globe, and challenges closer to home will continue, along with the inevitably unforeseen world events. As we have seen this year the power is in the team; serving and veterans, regulars and reserves, and it is my intent to draw this team even more closely together. I will be asking you to unite under a new Corps Strategy and help me revolutionise the way the Corps communicates with one another in an increasingly digitised fashion. I will need your help to support the RHQ and provide feedback and assistance when we are not hitting the mark as promised.

All that remains is for me to wish you all, the whole RLC Community, a safe and happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year and I look forward to ever greater collective success in 2025.

Colonel

J S Powell ADC

RLC Flyfishing leads the way at the Inter Services

This year, the Inter Services (IS) event at Grafham Water was held over the period of 09 - 11 Sep 24. It showcased the exceptional talent of the Royal Logistic Corps, with three dedicated members representing the Army.

Among them, two proudly secured their spots on the official team, while the third earned the position of travelling reserve, demonstrating their readiness to support the team at any moment.

Continuing the tradition, the Army triumphed once again at this year's IS. A highlight was RLC team member SSgt Shaktihang Begha from 158 Regt RLC, who not only won the prestigious biggest fish award, but also earned his first Army colours. SSgt Begha’s remarkable achievement has set a benchmark for others, and we hope to see more RLC service personnel following his example.

Retired RASC, RCT and RLC WOs’ and SNCOs’ event

The RASC, RCT and RLC Retired WOs and SNCOs Club was initially set up in 1984 by WO2 Dave O’Bee for a handful of WOs and SNCOs who gathered for a fish supper. It was officially adopted by the RCT in 1986 and has continued every year since.

The Club is open to any retired Warrant Officer or Senior NCO from the RASC, RCT and since 1993 those from the RLC who wish to attend.

The club’s 2025 event will take place over the weekend 04 - 06 April 2025 at The Village Hotel, Farnborough. The weekend will run as follows:

Fri 04 Apr –1900hrs – AGM, followed by a curry evening and catch up.

Sat 05 Apr –Golf competition (for those interested), Grand National. There will be a Black-Tie Dinner Night in the evening. Lt Gen Sir Martin and Lady White will attend as guests of honour.

The event is well attended and can cater for up to 200 people (wives, husbands and partners are welcome). For further information contact Tim Tatler at: secwossncos@gmail.com or via Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/ qLTfMhEcUMXpnmkd/

Transference of The RLC Association Trust to The RLC Charity

Following 31 years of dedicated service to the RLC Corps Family, The RLC Association Trust has successfully transferred its operations to The RLC Charity (1209610), now established as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).

This transition makes the charity compliant with extant policy and strengthens its ability to support The RLC fraternity, past and present. The switch, which was overseen by appointed solicitors, offers enhanced legal protection and efficiency, ensuring that the Charity can focus more resources on delivering valuable support where it is needed most throughout the Corps.

Whilst the name may have changed, the RLC Charity’s commitment to the welfare of RLC soldiers, officers, veterans, and their families remains unwavering. The RLC Charity will continue to offer vital assistance, such as benevolence grants, mental health support, family respite and support to Corps sport, building on the proud legacy of The RLC Association Trust. With this new structure, the Charity is better equipped to grow its investments to meet future challenges whilst supporting the evolving needs of the Corps Family.

The change has been a necessary exercise, but one that presents an opportunity as the Charity recommits to supporting the Forming Corps and all those that have served in The Royal Logistic Corps.

8 SSgt Begha receives his award

‘‘Please keep up the astounding work, it does not go unnoticed, and we, RHQ The RLC, really do appreciate everything you do for our Corps family

As I sit here, writing this article on a snowy and cold winters day, it has given me yet another opportunity to reflect upon what extremely professional and skilled soldiers we have within our humble Corps family.We knew at the end of 2023 that 2024 was shaping to be an extremely challenging year across both Field Army commitments and NATO supporting exercises; and it has proved to be the case. I have been extremely proud this year to wear our RLC colours and that is because of ‘you’, the soldiers that serve in this fantastic Corps. I am genuinely grateful to every single one of you for continuing to deliver for the betterment of one another, the reputation of the Corps and flying our flag and colours high across all areas of the globe.

So, when our heads are down and we are ploughing through the tempo and commitments, we can quickly forget some of our successes and the year’s more poignant moments. Therefore, I would like to highlight some, not all, so you can reminisce and feel proud of not only your personal and professional achievements but ours as a Corps family. Deployments: Ex STEDFAST DEFENDER (deployed across 13 European countries), Ex AUSTERE WOLF (practise readiness as the Strategic Reserve Force via ship-toshore and beach landing in southern Albania), Op CABRIT, Op SCORPIUS (INTERFLEX & INTERLINK). Sporting achievements: The Olympic Games, Paris – Lt Kerenza Bryson representing GB in modern pentathlon and Corporal Steve Cox representing Zimbabwe in rowing, Army Sports Award winners: 1 Regiment (Best Major Unit), 165 Regiment (retaining the title –Best Reserve Unit), Cpl Andrew Cook (Army Sports Official of the Year), Cpl Steve Cox (Army Sportsman of the Year).

We have also seen significant changes within the Corps Headquarters – a transference of the ‘RLC Association Trust’ to the ‘RLC Charity’, a new Master General of Logistics (Maj Gen Jo Chestnutt CBE,

FROM THE RANKS

and new Colonel RLC (Col Jacqueline Powell ADC) and plethora of other key appointment changeovers.With the support of ‘yourkindness’ by giving up one days’ pay, our benevolence has continued to provide essential and valuable support to our Corps family (regular, reserve, veterans and families), with over £635,000 being provided this year, and nearly 100 families having the opportunity to escape on our Respite Holiday Scheme’,What a sensational year! To close, 2025 looks exciting and full of promising opportunities to skilfully develop at the heart of key operational activity and on the global map. Please relish this challenge! The Corps Headquarters will also be continuing to develop communication platforms to better connect the Corps, as well as drafting a focused and purposeful Corps strategy to ensure we remain: ‘professionallycapable, highlyeffective,delivering logisticsgloballyandlookingafter whatmatterstoyou’.When the festive period arrives, I sincerely hope you and your families have a wonderful time together and enjoy your much deserved time off. For those of our soldiers who are deployed, we especially thank you. It is never easy being away from loved ones and certainly even more challenging over Christmas; but I hope you are able to utilise our digital friends to stay connected.

Please keep up the astounding work, it does not go unnoticed, and we, RHQ The RLC, really do appreciate everything you do for our Corps family.

WO1

S A Muir Corps Sergeant Major RLC

Calling all darts players

RLC Chef, SSgt David Lever is part of the Defence Dart Community (DDC) committee. In July 2024 the DDC organised Op BULLSEYE – the largest military darts event ever held – which took place at the Grand Hotel in Blackpool. He says he wants to raise awareness among darts players serving in The RLC around the growing interest in the sport within the Armed Forces community.

SSgt Lever explains: “Currently, darts is not classified as an official military sport but the event organisers and founders of the DDC are striving to ensure darts will be recognised in the future.”

Op BULLSEYE was a pairs tournament where professional darts players generously gave up their time to participate. They included Masters champion Chris Dobey, Premier League champion Glen Durrant and 2004 World Matchplay winner, Colin Lloyd. Also on hand for the event was the voice

of the darts, Russ Bray and PDC Master of Ceremonies John McDonald, who is ex 1 Para.

Over 650 military competitors (serving and veteran) took part in qualifying events up and down the country, in the months leading up to the tournament. 15 qualified to go forward to the finals in Blackpool.

The eventual winners of Op BULLSEYE 24 were veteran Vince Tipple and former PDC World Youth champion Keegan Brown (who were 6 darts into a 9 darter in 1 leg).

SSgt Lever adds: “The event was an outstanding success which could not have been achieved without a fantastic committee and some amazing sponsors that helped the vision become a reality and despite some obstacles along the way it has created fantastic exposure for darts, putting the sport firmly on the map across Defence. In the process we also raised a total of £13,500 for SSAFA The Armed Forces Charity. This has been divided up and distributed to several in service committees across the country where we believe that the donations would help current serving personnel more effectively. The captivation that Op BULLSEYE has generated has been nothing short of mind blowing with the big question will there be an Op BULLSEYE 25? Of course, is the answer.”

For more information email: David.Lever223@mod.gov.uk

Going Dutch in Wales

In early October, prior to Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL, 27 Regt RLC was proud to host the Netherlands’ 11th Battalion Air Assault Recce for joint training ahead of the gruelling 2024 event.

Known as one of the toughest military challenges, teams from across the globe pushed their endurance, teamwork, and skills to the limit as they navigated the rugged Welsh terrain during the 48 hours allowed to complete the patrol. Both 27 Regt and the Dutch team achieved silver medals. These were in addition to gold and silver medals for teams from 13 AAS Regt RLC and a silver medal for the team from 9 Regt RLC. Well done to all.

A Junior Officer’s Perspective of the Joint Support and Enabling Command

By Captain Harry Ziegler RLC – Executive Officer JSEC OPS J3 Division

For those reading who are yet to recognise the subject of this article having read only the title, you may not be in exclusively isolated company. Nestled high in a fortress above the Swabian city of Ulm sits the Joint Support and Enabling Command (JSEC). In September 2021, the then Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) declared the JSEC at full operational capability, having started on this journey since its inception in only 2018.

The JSEC is still a young headquarters but has been set on a path to disrupt and reinvent the status-quo of bi- and multi-lateral coordination between nations to instead centrally coordinate logistics and enablement. This is travelling in only one direction… Forwards. If you are yet to hear of the headquarters, that is sure to change in the upcoming months and years.

With its close to three hundred members of staff comprised of officers, soldiers, and civilians from 25 of the 32 NATO member countries, the headquarters is directly subordinated to SHAPE and is the coordinating authority (at the operational level) for enablement within SACEUR’s AOR during peacetime and for reinforcement by forces and the ensuing sustainment during crisis and conflict. To accomplish this challenging task, the JSEC continues to undertake the development of a comprehensive network of POEs / PODs, mobility areas, contracts with host nations, standards for infrastructure, and requirements for the accompanying enablers to operate this network –these can be described as the physical and functional layers of the network. The updating and creation of this network remains an iterative and perpetual process, but the JSEC already boasts significant successes in this field: of note, the headquarters championed a ‘military Schengen’

between the Netherlands, Germany, and Poland to truncate red-tape and bureaucracy to ease the transportation of military equipment and personnel across national borders.

This was and remains an innovative and exciting initiative, but the headquarters of course continues to further promote such innovation in the quest of fulfilling its given task. From January 2025, the JSEC will do this under a new structure as a fully-fledged member of the Allied Command Operations in the form of a NATO Command Structure where it has access to NATO common funding. What this means in practice, following this month’s Post Allocation Conference, is a greater commitment from across the member nations to staff the headquarters in a more balanced make-up with a lower reliance on the host nation, Germany, to do so.

The UK is no different, and the JSEC will see a steady and substantial increase of British officers and soldiers from across all three

services over the course of the next three years. This significant change not only signals a positive change across the Alliance but provides ample opportunity for British logisticians to contribute to and put their stamp on how the headquarters achieves its mission.

For those yet to consider working in NATO, or perhaps may have even discounted themselves due to a lack of multi-national experience need only cast an eye on the deteriorating European security situation since the Russian annexation of the Crimea in 2014 and renewed Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022; to swiftly understand the importance currently placed on collective defence. Even though NATO does not yet find itself in conflict, the role of the JSEC to set the theatre for eventual deployments in the case of conflict can exist only in peace time. The ongoing work in the headquarters must happen before large-scale forces cross SACEUR’s AOR to meet a potential Russian threat.

To give some idea of the scale of

that undertaking, it was quickly recognised after the headquarters’ inception in 2018 that the plans for enablement that had existed in the Cold War were far than fit for purpose, with civilian- / industry-led organisations now playing a leading role in the transportation of vehicles, troops, and materiel across the Euro-Atlantic area and an eastern-front more than twice the length of its former size; NATO was forced to re-think how it sets the conditions to coordinate this. In their recent article in the RUSI, the former Commander JSEC Lt Gen Alexander Sollfrank and his Political Advisor Sergei Boeke highlight that Russia possesses one single enabled space where its troops can move without impediments. There are no difficult border procedures to navigate, and the (civil) governance system is geared to support the nation’s defence system. We know this to not be the case across Europe and to go one-step beyond just the political and organisational structure of these networks, the physical structure of NATO’s networks poses a challenge too. Those who have undertaken the planning and execution of crossborder rail operations can attest to the difficulties posed for example by differing gauges in the Baltic States and Finland when compared to the rest of Europe.

The continued efforts of the JSEC, through its preparations for enablement, to contribute to both the overall deterrence and defence of the Alliance remain amongst the highest priorities for SACEUR. As the headquarters enters the next phase of its journey it requires a

new wave of agile and progressive thinkers to cement itself at the centre of NATO military and political thinking. From a personal and reflective perspective, the opportunity to serve within the JSEC has been an immensely valuable experience. Serving at the JSEC whilst it continues to grow from a nascent Force Structure to a Command Structure, on the tip of many tongues in the corridors of NATO HQ and SHAPE, has given me profound exposure to conversations and decision-making

in the field of logistics at the very highest levels. As I prepare to leave the JSEC next year, I anticipate really only seeing the true extent of my development once in my next job: the diplomatic skills one cultivates, the understanding and appreciation of how other nations think, plan, operate, and execute one gains, and ultimately the professional development as a logistics officer I have undertaken.

Ulm is a terrific city to live in and there are few greater pleasures than being part of a tight-knit British community whose active involvement in the headquarters’ social calendar matches only that of the scale of its contributions to the various ongoing work strands. For those fortunate enough to be posted to the JSEC, let it be known that you will have the opportunity to make active contributions to the improvement of enablement across SACEUR’s AOR, no matter how big or small that may be.

REFERENCES:

RUSI – Enablement and logistics as critical success factors for military operations Comparing Russian and NATO approaches – Alexander Sollfrank and Sergei Boeke

Jürgen Knappe, Sergei Boeke

8 Officers, soldiers, and civilians from 25 of the 32 NATO member countries serve on the JSEC staff

8 Maj Gen Gerry Ewart-Brookes (late RLC) is the senior British officer at JSEC

8 JSEC centrally coordinates logistics and enablement for NATO forces

YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL

RLC Soldiers Section

SO1: Lt Col M Lambert

SO2 Sect1: Maj N Hemsworth

SO2 Sect2: Ms Catherine Brown

SO2 Sect3: Ms C Johnston

SO3: Capt S Edwardes-Kennedy

WO1: WO1 W Marquis

SO1 RLC Soldiers – Lt Col Mark Lambert

I have been in the post as SO1 RLC Soldiers since September 2024 and I am really looking forward to working with you and representing you at the Army Personnel Centre. I have arrived at a time when the APC is embracing digitization. We have not printed an appraisal report since March 2020, and all our boarding is now conducted using digital information with the new CM Portal being a key enabler to that progress. This step forward makes it easier than ever for you to have your aspirations and personal considerations seen by boards for both promotion and your future assignments. I encourage you to engage with this process and take the time to make sure the information you input is coherent, understandable, and relevant. For PPPs, tailor your overarching profile comments to the board and ensure they align with the individual job comments. Remember, aside from your Annual Reports, this is the only document that the board members will use to make a decision about you; and you have the opportunity to shape it.

Your career at your fingertips with ‘My Career’ App

The ‘My Career’ app is your one-stop shop for managing job applications and keeping tabs on your job listings. It provides seamless access to vital information. This app is transforming the way APC understands and supports your career aspirations, making it easier than ever to align your goals with the opportunities available.

Inside the Appointment Board process

Appointment boards are the next step in the promotion process and the way we align those to their next role when they come to their Future Availability Date, and staying informed is crucial. After each promotion board results are announced, the RLC Soldiers section hosts CM Portal briefs via Microsoft Teams. These sessions are packed with valuable content:

• Examples of successful ePPP submissions

• Detailed timelines for the board process

• Crucial deadlines for ePPP submissions

• Dates when the boards convene.

Not only do these briefs provide a wealth of information, they also offer a live Q&A segment, allowing direct interaction with us at APC. If you can’t make it to the live session, don’t worry. Recordings are available on the APC RLC Soldiers SharePoint page, ensuring you never miss out.

Of note, 30% of LCpl ePPPs were still to be submitted at the deadline. The board can only select for appointments based on the evidence in front of them and will assume where no ePPP has been submitted that the SP is content to go to any of the jobs on the board. Therefore, please ensure that your ePPPs are submitted in a timely manner to give the board members the opportunity to appoint you to the right job.

Promotion Board preparation

All Promotion Boards are now conducted using the CM Portal. The CM Portal filters candidates in and out of the portal using the information available on JPA. The Boarding Section will also run reports prior to promotion boards taking place but again these reports draw information from JPA. This means that if your details are wrong on JPA you could be filtered out of the promotion board.

SPs and their Chain of Command should ensure that all details held on JPA are correct, particularly checking their trade is correct if re-trading, trade qualifications and seniority dates.

Dealing with promotion results

Promotion results day can be a rollercoaster of emotions. If you find yourself on the list of unsuccessful candidates, it’s important to remember that competition is fierce, with performances often very difficult to separate. You can request feedback through your Chain of Command but be patient. The APC team is particularly busy after results day, focusing on building appointment boards and addressing numerous role-related queries. We ask you allow at least a week before requesting feedback.

Key Updates You Need to Know

Soldier Terms of Service (SToS)

An updated SToS was published in Oct 24. This crucial document covers assignments, promotions, and transfers, providing clear guidelines for those looking to understand their career progression and eligibility for promotion.

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 the Defence Connect page. It is your go-to resource for key dates and essential information. Just search for CM RLC Soldiers.

RLC Soldiers OneNote

A OneNote page has been distributed to all RCMOs, it contains details of the latest forms for submission to the APC and the details about upcoming Unit Visits.

RLC Systems Analysts

Logistic Information Services Troop (LIST)

Based in Bicester the Logistic Information Services Troop (LIST) is part of 259 (Global Information Systems) Signal Squadron, 13 Signal Regiment. The Sqn provides Defence wide, expert support to tactical communications systems and how they seamlessly share information with other systems, both within our own networks and multi-nationally.

The LIST is made up of The RLC’s Systems Analyst trade. With an entry rank of substantive Sergeant, or above, the trade consists of highly skilled Logistic Information Service Specialists who operate across Defence to deliver support, including troubleshooting wide area networks, installing servers and upgrading software and hardware.

The LIST has had an exceptionally demanding year, marked by significant milestones. Notably, the troop provided critical support to Op LINOTYPER, delivered the new Non-Data Centre Hardware (NDCH) set to replace current logistics systems, and underwent a formal trade review

by the Joint Service Job Evaluation Team (JSJET).

A standout accomplishment was the troop's support task to Op LINOTYPER, where Systems Analysts deployed in support of the Theatre Enabling Group and deployed Formations. This included managing incidents, training personnel, technical guidance, and assurance across multiple countries. Deployed Analysts supported in excess of; 40 Field Service Packs, four Concentrator Service Packs and up to 200 laptops. Their efforts ensured that logistics operations continued smoothly, regardless of conditions, adapting the logistical communications infrastructure to facilitate supply chain operations across the deployed space.

The introduction of NDCH was another milestone, with the troop playing a key role in rigorous network testing and data exchange across the MOD Carrier Network.

The User Acceptance Test (UAT) during Ex WESSEX STORM was pivotal, with 7 Regiment RLC conducting field tests under the

direction of the Systems Analysts, ensuring the system's readiness for the deployment phase into wider Defence.

The Systems Analyst trade also faced a thorough review by JSJET. This evaluation, conducted across all three Services, used an algorithm to determine the Through Career Whole Trade Score (TCWTS), critical for comparing the trade group to others within the MOD and influencing pay supplement. Troop members completed detailed job evaluation proformas and delivered capability presentations to the judges. The trade, through diligent efforts, scored higher than previous years across all rank ranges. Results of the review are eagerly awaited by the troop.

In conclusion, this year has been marked by significant progress and achievements across multiple project streams, highlighting the dedication and expertise of the Systems Analyst trade in advancing Defence Logistics Systems.

8 SSgt Prophet delivering assurance training to OP LINOTYPER exercising troops, from 9 Regiment RLC

The RLC within 2 FS Bn REME

By Sgt R Aiken

Who we are and what we do

2 Force Support Battalion REME is based in Leuchars, Scotland. St Andrews is six miles away, so an ideal area for the golf fans. We are part 102 Operational Sustainment Brigade and provide Level 3 ES MAT support to 1 (UK) Division. Throughout 2024, the unit has been aligned to UKSB, Op TEMPERER and Op LAZURITE with personnel currently held at readiness for the ARF LSG. All this activity has seen RLC soldiers from across the Bn heavily involved. Within the Bn there are 1+43 RLC personnel broken down across the different departments and trades.

MT Dept and Comms Dept

The department has had a very busy year. In the last four months, it has been actively supporting the Battalion through all its commitments. Sgt Jackson played a crucial role by providing communication support during the BHQ led Ex TARTAN STALLION 6, ensuring smooth and reliable communication throughout the exercise. Meanwhile, Cpl Meek has been leading the vehicle familiarisation training for those aligned to the Logistic Support Group (LSG) enhancing the unit’s operational readiness. During this busy time Sgt Jackson organised a Coy BBQ to help build team cohesion and boost morale which was well attended and enjoyed by all those present. WO2 Johnstone and Sgt Jackson also managed to squeeze in some golf, both deploying with the Bn on an OSV golf trip to Florida where they played numerous golf courses.

The QM Dept

The Logistic Support Team has been busy with supporting the move of the full QM’s Department successfully into a newly refurbished building. Throughout, the LST has also supported the Battalion on numerous exercises at home and overseas including Ex RED STORM, NOMAD STALLION, ALPINE STALLION and Op

LAUZRITE on which one of our LCpls deployed in a specialist female role, helping assist the wives and children of EPs. The LST has also been heavily involved in the HOTO and management of the units UKSB commitment and have personnel aligned to both Op TEMPERER and the ARF LSG. The team recently received the Battalion’s Standard Stock Module for ARF consisting of clothing packs, CBRN equipment, ACTO, Medical Kit and Level 1 ES Spares. Pte Taylor successfully completed his ADR training and is held at readiness for Op ESCALIN and in his spare time he has completed the Scottish half marathon. Sgt McLuckie visited our sister unit 7e Regiment du Materiel in Lyon and is also part of the management team for the Battalion football team.

The RLC Stores Troop

The RLC Stores Tp has had a busy period with three personnel deployed overseas as TDS to Kenya, Belize and the Falkland

Islands, with Sgt Boswell deployed to Cyprus on Op SHADER. Stores Tp personnel have also been aligned to UKSB, Op TEMPERER and Op LAZURITE with a significant proportion of the workforce held at readiness as part of the ARF LSG. Whilst all this has been going on the Stores Troop has also moved location into a temporary building until our newly refurbished technical accommodation is completed. Among this very busy time for the Troop, personnel have managed to get some down time and played golf in the Corps championships.

Op SHADER 18 – Sgt Boswell

Sgt Boswell deployed on OP SHADER 18 as the SNCO J4 TECH based in RAF Akrotiri in the middle of April of this year. His primary job role is the management of all weapons, ancillaries and controlled drugs throughout the Middle East. Concurrently he has dealt with all

8 Sgt Boswell deployed on Op SHADER

8 LCpl Vakatalai assisting with community engagement in BATUK

daily issues and prepared and issued equipment for IAs deploying out to the various bases throughout the Operational AOR. This involves regularly daily check ins with the CQMS Dept on the ground ensuring they have the right equipment to deal with routine activity, visits and short notice taskings that arise. The biggest part of the role is liaison with the RAF movements team in Cyprus to ensure that all equipment gets to the right location. At times this can be challenging as what we think is a priority, may not be a priority in the eyes of the RAF.

BATUK TDS – LCpl Vakatalai

LCpl Vakatalai deployed to BATUK as the RSG JNCO in January. Whilst

conducting his duties within the RSG, LCpl Vakatalai has made the most of his time in BATUK to take on additional roles such as the Shopfloor JNCO and JAMES Rep for CSS 2nd line. He has also been able to conduct some interest lessons and delivered lessons on the Reverse Supply Chain process and EC to other departments. LCpl Vakatalai has been able to summit Mount Kenya and has organised a

community engagement project where BATUK personnel assisted with refurbishing a local school, an AT package which included white water rafting and kayaking and also captained the BATUK volleyball team to victory against the KDF, Kenyan Air Force and the Prison Service.

The Royal Logistic Corps Association and Forming Corps Associations Membership

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/

8 LCpl Vakatalai enjoying some R&R at Mount Kenya

RLC Soldiers at the heart of 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion REME

Embedded within 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion REME, more than 50 RLC soldiers ensure that everything from vehicle parts to food and communications support runs smoothly, making vital contributions to the overall mission. The Bn’s RLC personnel work across key departments –Stores Troop, Command Troop, and the Catering Department –each playing an instrumental role in ensuring the operational effectiveness of the Bn. The unsung heroes, The RLC’s contributions are indispensable.

Stores Troop: The backbone of supply operations

Stores Troop within 4 ACS Bn is integral to sustaining its readiness, ensuring the provision of essential equipment and supplies. Over the past year, members of Stores Troop have been deployed on multiple exercises and operations, including Op LINOTYPER, where they played a critical role in ensuring that forward replenishment pools were stocked to enable armoured exercises across 12 ABCT. Its contribution isn’t limited to home turf. Stores Troop personnel have also deployed individually on operations and training exercises in Nigeria, Kenya, and Belize, enhancing global military cooperation and enabling operations worldwide. These deployments have tested their adaptability in varying climates and operational environments. Closer to home, they continue to support high-tempo armoured exercises, providing vital logistic support. Several members of the troop are also highly qualified instructors and played a large part in delivering recent ITR camps in Warcop, ensuring the readiness of the entire Bn.

Command Troop: Keeping the Battalion connected and mission ready

Command Troop is responsible for ensuring the Bn’s communications are seamless and secure, which is

crucial for operational success. Recently, the troop has been busy with deployments to Poland and Germany, working alongside European contingencies and the legendary 101st Airborne Division as part of Ex COMBINED RESOLVE and Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE.

At the heart of Command Troop's remit is delivering Complex Platform User courses, designed to train the battalion on cutting-edge communication and logistics systems, keeping it ahead of the curve in modern warfare. Beyond technical duties, Command Troop’s personnel also shine in the sporting arena. Some members have represented the Bn in a variety of competitions, with notable achievements including national representation in the England

fishing team in Croatia and the Polish rugby team; and strong performances in the Bn’s crosscountry running competitions.

Catering Department: Fuelling the fight and supporting communities No military unit can function without being properly fed, and 4 ACS Bn REME’s Catering Department takes this responsibility to the next level. Known for more than just providing hot meals, the catering team has had a hand in community outreach and charitable efforts. Recently, they raised over £1,000 for Combat Stress by completing a gruelling 10-mile march, demonstrating their commitment to supporting veterans' mental health.

Beyond the kitchen, these chefs have been involved in feeding at local homeless shelters, extending their skills and generosity beyond the barracks. In the field, they have been part of several key military exercises, including deployments to Germany, Saudi Arabia, Albania, Gibraltar, and the Falklands, ensuring that troops are well-nourished in all corners of the world. They are also active on the sports field, participating in cross-country events and football, while also taking on adventurous training activities.

8 RLC Comms Specs ensure the Bn’s comms are seamless

8 Members of the Catering Department during AT in Wales

12th ABCT Chefs

The past quarter has been exceptionally demanding for the RLC Chefs within the 12th Armoured Brigade Combat Team (12 ABCT), as they supported a variety of exercises and operations. Notably, Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE and Ex COMBINED RESOLVE stood out, aiding the 12ABCT Battle Groups as part of Op LINOTYPER.

This multinational NATO exercise spanned from the UK through Germany to Poland, with the catering team responsible for feeding approximately 2,800 troops during Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE and around 900 during Ex COMBINED RESOLVE across three different locations.

The chefs faced numerous challenges during the deployment, including issues with local LPG gas supply, fresh food deliveries, and frequent changes to the feeding plan. Additionally, they contended with extreme weather conditions, with temperatures soaring to 42 degrees Celsius. Many chefs had never participated in an exercise of this scale, marking it as one of the largest conducted by the Army in two decades. The chefs from the 12 ABCT collaborated tirelessly, showcasing remarkable team spirit and a positive work environment,

with Corporals and Lance Corporals mentoring younger Privates, helping them develop new skills, and encouraging them to create diverse menus and themed nights.

The field kitchen during Ex IMMEDIATE RESPONSE served as a morale booster for troops, providing a welcome respite after long days of training. Service Personnel eagerly anticipated hot meals and socialising with colleagues, which fostered camaraderie. The chefs consistently received gratitude from everyone who visited the hotplate, as they strived to meet various needs, accommodating requests for meals at different times and ensuring cold water was available on hot days, along with hot drinks during colder weather. At the end of the exercise, numerous chefs were acknowledged for their exceptional

efforts, with SSgt Nayacatabu and Pte Jayes from the 1st Battalion of the Mercian Regiment, along with Cpl Peacock from the 21 Engineer Regiment, honoured with the 12 ABCT Brigade Commanders Coin. Additionally, Cpl Cassidy, Cpl Mendy from KRH, Pte Deucu of 2 Med, Pte Banda, LCpl Gurung of 1 Mercian received a Commanding Officer’s coin. The team maintained an excellent standard of service, earning recognition and appreciation from all involved throughout the exercise.

Upon returning to the barracks, chefs from 1 Mercian, in partnership with chefs from 1 R Welsh and the Brigade Food Services Warrant Officer (BFSWO) of the 12 ABCT, organised a successful fundraising effort. Their initiative was aimed at supporting communities in the Caribbean affected by Hurricane Beryl, raising an impressive £1,200. This collaboration not only demonstrated their culinary talents but also their strong commitment to humanitarian causes. Overall, it has been a memorable effort by the Royal Logistic Corps Chefs from across 12 ABCT, highlighting their teamwork, generosity, and willingness to make a difference on operations and in barracks.

8 Numerous 12 ABCT chefs were recognised for their exceptional efforts

On 16 Sept 24, the first elements from 17 Port and Maritime Regiment deployed to Albania, arriving in Durres Naval Base as part of the 104 Brigade Theatre Enabling Group (TEG). With the main body arriving over the next 24 hours, the Regt quickly had the HQ established and began planning for two weeks of maritime activity.

Ex AUSTERE WOLF was a 104 Brigade led exercise to Albania, demonstrating the capability of the Brigade to inload the UK’s Strategic Response Force (1 RYORKS) and subsequently the TEG, into the Balkan region across a beachhead. The exercise was conducted in Pasha Liman, an old Soviet port currently in use by the Albanian Coastguard. This was an austere port, with no deep-water berths and limited infrastructure, providing a challenging location to test the capability of the TEG.

A further challenge included a quarter of the work force being dropped to R1 to support operations in the Middle East. These members had to be redeployed from Albania, back to the UK and then on to Cyprus within 24 hours’ notice. As a result, the decision was made to redirect the Strat RoRo to Durres Port to inload the SRF, rather than continuing to Pasha Liman. After a rapid and compressed planning cycle the Regt pivoted to provide a Port Task Group to Durres Port, with a new offload plan and attachments from across the TEG. This hybrid gang completed the offload and restow of the ship in just under 12 hours, a testament to the resilience and hard work of the Port Operators, Vehicle Support Specialists and various other attached elements of 104 Brigade. On completion, the ship

Ex AUSTERE WOLF 24

was restowed to allow it to continue to PLM for the TEG exercise phase. With 1 RYORKS equipped and continuing to Kosovo, 17 P&M Regt looked south, to the port of Pasha Liman. The Regt deployed over three days, with 51 Sqn deploying ahead to enable the immediate unloading of the RoRo on arrival. The Mariners and Port Ops aboard the ship began unloading as soon as the ship anchored at 0700hrs. Following a quick build of a Mexeflote, crewed by Mariners from 52 Sqn and reservists from 165 P&M Regt, unloading began to get the first of the Sqn equipment ashore. Concurrently, Port Operators were establishing a beach for the Mexe to land on and offload its cargo.

Over the next three days, the team had to work tirelessly to offload over 100 vehicles and ISO containers into the port of Pasha Liman. Despite challenges from infrastructure, space, relentless mosquitos and enemy activity, the team from 51 Sqn (with attachments from 52 and 53 Sqns – 29 Regt - 162 and 165 Regts) achieved the offload in just under 72 hours. While the Port Sqn worked the ship, other elements of the TEG worked hard to establish themselves across PLM. 16 SIGS helped set up and enable the RHQ, 36 RE made hasty repairs to a damaged culvert to enable the mobility of the TEG across it and the PHTT from 22 MMR established and provided medical cover for all exercising troops.

On 23 Sept, the Regt hosted VIP guests including the Albanian Deputy Prime Minister and the UK Prime Minister’s envoy to the Balkans, Air Chief Marshall Lord Peach KG GBE KCB DL.

After the offload from the RoRo was complete, the Regt immediately moved on to the task of reloading the ship, in time for sailing on the morning of 28 September.

Once the ship was loaded and ready to sail, the Regt recovered to Durres Naval Base and took the opportunity to enjoy a few days exploring Durres and Tirana before flying back to the UK.

8 OC 51Sqn briefs the troops at the start of the exercise

8 The Mexe prepares to attach to the RSP on the RORO

8 VSS offload specialist vehicles from the Mexe

Defence School of Logistics and Administration

Comdt: Gp Capt Rachel Mawdsley OBE RAF

Supply Training Wing

CO: Lt Col Nick Homer MBE

As the summer break disappears rapidly into the rearview mirror, the freshly rejuvenated team in STW get back to the grind of course delivery and we reflect in this update about what it means to be part of the RLC cohort that do not serve at regimental duty.

Being part of a busy tri-service environment clearly has its challenges, but they pale into insignificance when compared with the personal and career enhancing opportunities that can be grasped. Working alongside other Arms and Services gives opportunity to have a much wider defence perspective and especially here in the STW, where working fluidly across the floorplate is massively encouraged by the Chief Instructor. This can see RAF delivering Army courses or Army teaching the Royal Marines for example, enhancing both trainers and trainees along the way.

Another advantage of stepping away from regimental duty and working outside of the Corps, is it gives somewhat of a gear change to your career. The hustle and bustle calms somewhat and life certainly here in DSLA is a much steadier drumbeat with fewer “fastballs” due to the training year being forecast well out in advance.

The opportunities to teach and become real subject SME enhances individuals and makes them much more employable for future roles. As for life out of the office, having the opportunity to attend Royal Navy and Royal Air Force functions and events, such as Battle of Britain dinners or Pickle Night not only fills the social calendar but are also great fun opportunities to understand both traditions and what makes the other Services tick.

Regarding being away from daily duties, a number of troops from STW had the opportunity just prior to the summer stand down to get away on some awesome adventure training organised by Sgt Dil KC from the Royal Engineer Div. An awesomely organised multi-activity three-day package in Wales. Based out of Maindy Barracks, which was surprisingly sunny for the entire trip, saw the team conduct hill walking up Sugarloaf and Pen y Fan over the first two days, followed by a day of mountain

biking around Afan bike park. SSgt Hunter from SCD was personally requested to be deployed up to Edinburgh to be the CQMS for the second year in a row for the worldrenowned Edinburgh Tattoo.

The QMs Div has been fortunate to have three additional members attached to the team from 9 Regt and 10 QOGLR respectively to assist delivery of courses due to staffing shortages they’re currently suffering. The “Surge” team have settled in seamlessly, picking up the course content rapidly and are poised to deliver their first solo All Arms Stores Accountant courses from early September. This should massively assist the wider Field Army with more spaces available to get troops trained over the

8 STW staff enjoying the sunshine on the hillwalking phase of the 3-day multi-activity AT package in Wales

8 STW staff posing at the entrance to Afan Bike Park on the MTB phase of the 3-day multi-activity AT package in Wales

8 SSgt Hunter posing with a Piper at the Edinburgh Tattoo

coming months until they return to their units all the better for having the opportunity to work in this All Arms, Tri-Service teaching environment of DSLA.

We’ll wrap this update up with a personal perspective of life outside of mainstream RLC units, from Sgt Reece Fowler one of our instructors in the Supply Chain Div.

“Being assigned to DSLA Worthy Down has been an incredibly rewarding experience, both professionally and personally. The environment here has been beneficial for my career growth and has provided a great setting for my family life to flourish. The community is supportive, and the opportunities for personal development are abundant.

“As a supply instructor, I have the privilege of teaching the future logisticians of today’s army, enabling them to succeed in future operations. My role within the Supply Training Wing, has been particularly fulfilling. This unique setting allows individuals from different branches of the military to learn and bond together within the supply world, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration.

“This post has given me the chance to develop essential leadership skills, mentorship abilities, and effective problem-solving techniques. The experience has been invaluable in honing my ability to guide and support others, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges they will face in their careers.

At the end of my three-year assignment, I will leave the Supply Training Wing with a comprehensive understanding of supply knowledge. This will enable me to further develop my subordinates within the British Army, ensuring they have the competence and confidence to excel in their roles. The skills and experiences gained here will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on my career and the future success of those I mentor.”

Command Wing

CO: Lt Col Robert Williams

85 (Foley) Sqn

Exercise MERCURY LANDING - On 9 Sep 24, 85 (Foley) Squadron, took 28 permanent staff from the DSLA to Crete on a Battlefield Study (BS) to deepen the understanding of the Battle of Crete; specifically, the airborne invasion by the German forces during Operation Mercury in 1941. The study spanned key locations, giving participants a strategic and tactical overview of the challenges both Allied and Axis forces faced during the battle. The BS focused on the western sector of Crete, mirroring the paths Allied soldiers took during the battle.

Six syndicates delivered presentations on various strategic aspects of the battle, such as the strategic importance of Tavrontis Bridge a key point for the Allied forces to access Malame Airfield. As well as Hara Sfaklion viewpoint, where the group discussed the importance of Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Extraction (SERE) techniques highlighting the difficult terrain that Allied forces had to traverse to reach the evacuation point. Additionally, visiting the RAF memorial and wreath-laying ceremony by Sqn Ldr Smith honoured fallen soldiers, emphasising the sacrifices made during the conflict.

The study also retraced the retreat of Allied forces through challenging terrain like Imbros Gorge and Hill 107, where the harsh conditions and lack of resources added to the hardships. This experience allowed participants to reflect on how factors like terrain and logistics influenced the outcome of the battle and

contrasted with modern-day considerations around health, safety, and tactical planning.

In essence, the study not only revisited historical events but also provided modern personnel with insights into the operational difficulties and strategic implications of the battle, helping them draw parallels with contemporary military challenges.

Braemar Gathering - Members from 85 (Foley) Squadron participated in this year’s prestigious Braemar Gathering. The event took place in the heart of Scotland, in the picturesque village of Braemar. The Braemar Gathering, held annually on the first Saturday of September, is one of the most renowned Highland Games in Scotland, with a history dating back to 1832 in its current form. This year’s gathering was attended by His Majesty King Charles and Queen Camilla. 85 Sqn entered a mixed team led by Sgt Andrew Cartledge to compete in the Medley Sprint Relay where they took first place amongst the mixed team categories. Units wishing to participate next year are invited to contact Sgt Cartledge.

Since Jan 24, Comd Wing has been working with the Logistic Requirement Setting Team, Land Warfare Centre WarDev, and the Field Army to define and scope the future of logistic officers’ training. The current courses (RLC Troop Commanders, RLC Captains and RLC Majors) have been reviewed by External Validation and found wanting against the rapidly increasing threat, the ever-evolving form and function of sustainment, as well as the demand created from current operations. So what?

Land Logistics Command Training Sqn

Initial Trade Training - In April 2025, Comd Wing will pilot an all new operationally and threat focused RLC Troop Commanders’ course, which integrates with the Land Training Systems CYCLONE series of training events. The new course will focus on preparing Troops and Squadrons for deployment and executing logistic effects within a contemporary threat scenario. The days of Ex TIMBER TRUSS, as we know it, are ending with Ex TIMBER CYCLONE seeing young RLC officers being integrated into Field Army’s Collective Training CHARLIE events. This will ease the burden on the Field Army from extensive SETT trawls while guaranteeing young officers will command troops in a ‘safe to fail’ environment.

Subsequent Trade Training - The RLC Captains’ course will be retargeted at first tour Captains taking over Sqn 2IC appointments. This course will mainly be focussed on how Squadron-level logistic activity supports Unit-level logistic and sustainment effects. It will also cover how to prepare Force Elements at Readiness and maintain Combat Effectiveness while deployed. This is expected in autumn 25.

8 DSLA Staff in Crete on Exercise MERCURY LANDING

The RLC Majors’ course will be redesigned and become a Logistic Sub-Unit Commanders’ course. This will focus on planning and executing logistic and sustainment effects at sub-unit level and integrating this into the joint support network. This is expected in spring 26.

The staff elements of both these courses will be extracted and a formation-level sustainment staff course will be created. This course is designed to prepare RLC officers (OF2-4) and potentially WOs to take over 1-4* Headquarters logistic staff functions. This course will fill the supply and distribution SQEP gap that exists within The RLC. This is expected in autumn 25.

In addition to these changes, Command Wing has developed the Defence Logistics Contract Management Awareness Course (DLCM Awareness Course) for triservice personnel working in or around contracts. This course enables personnel in contract related staff appointments or Sustainment Fusion Cells to understand the basics prior to attending the Defence Logistics Contract Management Practitioner Course. This high-level course, currently being designed, will teach personnel to conduct contract management operations both overseas and in the UK.

Logistics Specialist Training Wing

CO: Wg Cdr Samantha M Smy MA RAF Defence Petroleum and Specialist Training Sqn Shining a light on the specialist skills we provide, aside from our main deliverables of Fuels and Postal & Courier trade training, DPSTS trains the majority of Defence Dangerous Goods Consignors, Unit Health and Safety Advisors and Managers, and Ceremonial Dress and Equipment Repair Tailors for the Army and wider Defence.

Our mixed Army, RAF and Civil Service Dangerous Goods Training Team has surged significantly to meet the vast increase in demand for Unit Consignors, to support both high readiness for NATO commitments and current ops activity across Europe. Training circa 530 SP per year, this enables units to outload ammunition, fuel, and other DG legally by land, air and sea in support of ops and training.

DPSTS’ one-man Health & Safety cell continues to deliver top quality training to over 220 H&S Advisors and Managers per year. With significant changes to H&S delivery in coming months, the Sqn remains ready to support the Field Army.

The ceremonial uniforms of the British Armed Forces are the envy of nations worldwide and are the defining feature of many state and royal events. Fabrication and repair of uniforms particularly for the Household Division and Scots Regiments has always been a highly specialist skill, and the DPSTS tailoring team train all Unit Tailors through an eight-week (Basic) and 10-week (Advanced) course. Those assigned to Scottish regiments additionally complete the 10-week Highland Dress course. An awesome capability in themselves, the team has launched into action to support London District and units on ceremonial duties around the country, for state events such as the Queen’s Jubilee, the state funeral of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the King’s coronation.

Our Equipment repair tailoring instructor delivers capabilities such as vehicle canopy and tent repair, as well as repair and tailoring of bergens, webbing and a plethora of other rugged fabric items. Highly sought after by high readiness expeditionary units, the training provides increased vehicle and equipment serviceability and greatly reduces load on the supply chain.

73 Sqn (Port, Maritime and Vehicle Specialist Training) Over the summer months, personnel from 73 Squadron have worked hard to facilitate a variety of courses for students, all at different stages of their maritime careers. With these courses have come many great accomplishments, with 100% pass rates coming in the Mariner Class 3, Mariner Class 2 and Port Operator Class 3 courses. All these newly qualified students are now

8 85 (Foley) Sqn Medley Sprint Relay team at the Braemar gathering

8 Capt Dorman conducting G3 planning

8 International students visit 17 RLC hosted by 2Lt Farrelly

applying their well-earned trades within 17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC. In addition to the trade courses, 73’s instructors have also run Power Boat level 2 courses, allowing students to learn how to operate smaller, outboard driven vessels. The recent PMOC (Port & Maritime Officers’ course) also delivered a 100% pass rate, allowing a new group of commissioned officers to take command roles in the maritime trades.

In between courses, 73 Sqn personnel also had the opportunity to take part in adventurous training activities, with several members of the Sqn travelling to Ibiza on Ex BALAERIC WATCH. There was also an opportunity for members of the Sqn to visit the historic Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower in Gosport. The Sqn also sadly said farewell to SSgt Trevenna, who has posted to 17 P&M Regt, following an incredible seven years with us. An evening of Indian food and interactive cricket was organised to give

SSgt Trevenna an appropriate send off, with everyone in the Sqn offering thanks for his incredible contribution.

Defence Movements Training Squadron

Over the past three years DMTS has utilised continuous improvement to empower individuals, analyse processes, enhance monitoring of statistics, and completed a full Peril Cycle. This has had a positive impact of enhancing the work-life balance for all personnel within DMTS. Enabling DMTS to strive in areas to enable the CI team to deliver detailed evidence hopefully to be one of the first to receive the Gold Accreditation from Field Army. By increasing continuous improvement throughout DMTS, it has provided the school with an opportunity to analyse ways to improve, eliminate wastage and streamline operations. We have empowered CI Champions into each department to monitor and improve areas they work closely in. Monthly meetings will be held to monitor updates and introduce best practices. This will also feed into the good practice register for utilisation across LSTW and the wider DSLA. DMTS is investigating the use of Power BI, a cutting-edge interactive IT system, to analyse course stats and produce findings that can be delivered to the unit key leaders. The Sqn has also started work on the introduction of the MyTraining app for future use on courses and enhance passage of information.

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/

8 Advanced Tailoring trainees undergoing instruction

8 Port Operator Class 3 students loading a Mexeflote raft prior to an exercise on Browndown beach

8 Members of the 73 Sqn take part on Ex BALAERIC WATCH off the coast of Ibiza

British Forces Brunei (BFB)

Ex WYVERN HIMALAYAN 24: BFB Garrison Support Troops in Nepal

By SO3 Log Sp Capt D Knott RLC (expedition leader) and GCWO: WO1 S Loghmani RLC

The Langtang Valley in Nepal was the breathtaking setting for Ex WYVERN HIMALAYA 24, a Type 3 Adventurous Training expedition undertaken by 14 members of the Garrison Support Troops (GST). Our team, set off from Brunei, ready to face the challenges of high-altitude trekking, unpredictable terrain and cultural immersion, while developing key teamwork and leadership skills.

We began the adventure in Nepal’s capital Kathmandu. The first few days were spent acclimatising to the altitude and ensuring our equipment was ready for the trek ahead. Spirits were high as we prepared for the challenging journey ahead.

Our trek officially began with an eight-hour jeep journey from Kathmandu to Syaprubesi. As the road wound through the Himalayan foothills, the scenery unfolded into stunning terraced landscapes and rushing rivers. Upon arrival, we began trekking through lush rhododendron forests, crossing numerous suspension bridges over fast-flowing rivers and numerous waterfalls gradually climbing in altitude.

One of the highlights of the expedition was reaching Kyanjin Gompa, an ancient Buddhist monastery nestled in the valley at an altitude of 3,870 metres. The peaceful setting gave us time to reflect on the spiritual significance of the region and offered breathtaking views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks. We were also introduced to local yak herders, who kindly shared fresh yak milk with the group, a unique experience that none of us will forget.

A greater challenge was when we pushed ourselves to summit Kyanjin Ri at 4,400 metres. The climb was steep, and the thin air made it more difficult to breathe, but the team showed incredible determination and spirit. Reaching the summit provided a stunning panorama of the Langtang

mountain range and glaciers, with the sheer scale of the Himalayas all around us.

Our biggest challenge came on Day six, when we tackled Tserko Ri, standing at 4,985 metres. Setting off in the early morning, we climbed in near darkness with only head torches to light the way. The incline was relentless, but the moment we reached the summit was a euphoric one. We stood at nearly 5,000 metres, overlooking the Langtang range and distant glaciers, feeling an immense sense of accomplishment.

Following the trek, we transitioned into a Battlefield Study

(BFS) with visits to Gorkha and Pokhara. In Gorkha, we visited the Gurkha Museum and the Gurkha Welfare Trust Area Welfare Centre, where we met with a retired Gurkha Warrant Officer who continues to serve the community. This interaction was a powerful reminder of the deep history and sacrifices made by the Gurkhas, and it was an honour to meet those who support their welfare today.

The final part of our journey took us to Pokhara, where we embraced the local culture and took in the magnificent views of the Annapurna Mountain range. Highlights included visits to the World Peace Pagoda, Tal Barahi Temple, and witnessing the sunrise over the Himalayas from the famous vantage point at Sarangkot. This serene and picturesque part of Nepal was the perfect way to close our journey.

Reflecting on the experience, Ex WYVERN HIMALAYAN 24 was more than just an adventurous trek, it was a journey of growth, leadership and cultural exchange. The lessons we learned while navigating the terrain, meeting the local people and adapting to life at high altitudes will stay with us for years to come. The qualities displayed by every member of the team throughout the journey exemplify the best of The RLC.

8 The BFB GST team at Thulo Syabru Hillside

8 Capt Knott at the 4,985m summit of Tserko Ri

Ammunition Technicians

The RLC’s Ammunition Technicians have the opportunity to serve on attachment with British Forces in Brunei, Cyprus, the South Atlantic, Kenya and with Commando Forces.

HQ Commando Forces –WO2 Anscombe, WO AT

The Ammo Cell UKCF (3 Cdo Bde) has had a busy 12 months, with multiple deployments in support of Navy and Royal Marine taskings.

I undertook the Cold Weather course and deployed on Winter Deployment 24, with taskings in both Norway and Sweden. This was followed later in the year by Ex PREDATORS RUN 24 in Australia’s Northern Territory, affording the unique opportunity to work closely with AT counterparts in the ADF and the US Marine Corps.

Navy tasks have seen deployments to Bahrain, Oman, Brunei and Australia, facilitating the periodic resupply of operational warships in the Gulf and South Pacific.

We look forward to supporting Winter Deployment 25 in the coming months, providing ongoing support to naval operations around the world, and being prepared for the emergent operations and commitments that UKCF may undertake.

BATUK – LCpl Birch, AT. Sgt Goulding, Ammunition Tp Comd

There has been no let up to the relentless pace of life for the Ammo Troop at British Army Training Unit Kenya. A key output has been two large scale, self-sustaining, logistical demolition exercises in the previous 12 months, successfully destroying several thousand items of unserviceable ammunition.

Preparation for Ex HARAKA

STORM gathers pace with the troop providing vital support to facilitate CTG’s flagship warm weather light role validation exercise. When not constrained by their workload members of the troop have been utilising their time to engage with and support the community, most recently donating furniture, and painting classrooms at the local Gakawa School which neighbours the Ammunition Depot.

LCpl Birch has had a particularly enjoyable time whilst in BATUK, remarking; “My time as the Ammunition Technician TDS here in Kenya has been thoroughly enjoyable. While it has been excellent for brushing up and improving on my ammunition technical skills and knowledge, it is not so thick and fast that I have not been able to take full advantage of this incredible country’s beautiful scenery, amazing animals, and exciting nightlife. As a small team we have full autonomy to do as we please to get the job done, then relax on safari or stretch ourselves on AT in our downtime.”

8 A 3 Cdo Bde AT processing ammunition in Australia

8 The aurora borealis lights up the sky on the 3Cdo X Cold Weather course

8 An unserviceable ammunition demolition in Kenya

8 AT’s have helped support the local Kenyan community

The Defence School of Transport

Comdt: Col Laura Craig-Braddock • COS: Lt Col Damion Moxon • GSM: WO1 M Hickey

A guide to the adaptation of the Defence Driver Training system

By Col Laura Craig-Braddock

Wheeled driver training provides foundational skills for the Army, RAF, and Royal Marines. Every year Defence requires 12,000 new licences and approximately 20,000 operators trained. This equates to a system which delivers 140,000 training days a year.

What will change? Currently, driver training is complex and it’s hard to know the difference between your PLS, EPLS, SLDT and FLRT.The Land Warfare Centre and its driving school, the Defence School of Transport (DST) are focusing on simplifying the ecosystem and moving from a just-in-case system, where we train service personnel at the start of their career to a just-in-time system where we train only those who need it in preparation for use on a CYCLONE exercise or RM/RAF equivalent. Why change? There are multiple reasons for changing the system, but in big handfuls there are three major factors:

1. Land Training System (LTS). The LTS has transformed the way in which training is to be delivered in future. Less time and resource are focused upon individual training in what is known as TRADEWIND, with more time and resources focused upon sub-unit training events, known as CYCLONE.

2. Workforce resource. Driver training is delivered in a whole force construct, with 35% of the system delivered by civil servants. The civil servant recruitment freeze has seen the workforce resource reduced by a third in the last 18 months; hence the system has had to change.

3. Technology. Transforming at the pace of relevance is applicable for driver training as much as it is anywhere else in Defence, and technology and advancements in

simulation and management information systems are accelerating the pace of change. How will we change? The system is undergoing several change programmes, but the five most important adaptations are: Simplifying Licence Acquisition Training (LAT) and testing. Licence Acquisition Training (LAT) is currently controlled by both Home Command and Field Army, in duplicate systems. The DeLTA restructuring project aims to move all LAT under the DST, in Field Army. So what? These changes won’t happen until 2026 but by having the system under the control of one school there will be greater visibility

of the entire 12,000 licences required by Defence each year. 100% of the training will be provided by a single contractor and the examination and administration will be conducted by the DST.The compromise is that the new system will not have the variety of locations (we will be moving from 19 exam locations to 9) and will be centralised to meet the limitations of the fiscal envelope of both the contractor and authority resources. The project is exploring ways to exploit automation, and in time, LAT booking will be via TARGET just like any other Army course. In the interim, alternative automation solutions will be used to get us to TARGET and to an

upgraded version of the system that talks to the Driver Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).The new LAT system will commence from Apr 26

Expanding our operator output. A licence means that personnel can legally drive a vehicle, however, Defence has an obligation to ensure that personnel can operate a vehicle in challenging conditions, at day and by night.This training is known as operator training and Defence currently converts individuals across 21 courses from Land Rover to OshKosh MLET, in schools or via Distributed Training (DT).

MyDrive has greatly improved the way we track and record operator competence and in future the MyTrgApp will also improve the way we track and record training competence, giving much more visibility of competence to both the individual and units.

In the future, the volume of DT will need to increase and to support this growth the DST is now offering a range of resources from: accommodation, vehicles, training area and simulation to support DT conducted at Leconfield.The reserve community have already greatly benefited from Supported DT but the opportunity is open to all. If you think that your Unit could benefit, please explore the DST site on the Defence Learning Environment for further information.1

Increasing the capability of our instructors. Maintaining safe instructors who are assured to be at the standard required is a critical output to operating a safe system of training. In future, potential vehicle instructors will only need to attend one course at the Leconfield DST site to become a Wheeled Multi-Platform Instructor (WMPI).The WMPI will cover instruction, will train people to understand what safe driving training areas are and will assess operator competence in the most effective way. Instructors will need to have a competence in a platform to deliver instruction on it, but this can be done in unit and recorded on MyDrive. If an instructor wants to instruct on another platform, they simply need to demonstrate the competence on that platform and have it recorded on MyDrive, without having to complete a separate course.WMPI is fundamentally ‘train once, instruct many’ and will start from Mar 25

Formalising our examiner provision. Defence currently trains 150 part-time Defence Driving Examiners (DDEs) each year who are required to test students for LAT, in accordance with the compendium of mandatory courses (now ACSO 3245). The DDE course is three weeks long and is tightly regulated by the DVSA who grant Defence permission to train its own examiners, a freedom for which we must retain. A DDE is a secondary duty, and these DDEs also have a primary role meaning that it can be a challenge to find a DDE who is available to test. Moving forward under the DeLTA restructuring project, the system will have full-time DDEs in each of the nine exam locations and hence Defence will only need part-time DDEs for resilience and to provide flexibility for our reserve community.The new LA

Footnotes:

testing system will commence from Apr 26

Delivering within a Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) wrapper. Transforming at the pace of relevance is critical and all changes sit within a TEL wrapper, including the use of simulators, drones and VBS4. The wrapper is available as part of the Supported DT offer.

We are conscious that these five adaptations delivered between Mar 25 and Apr 26 may sound like ‘jam tomorrow’ but just like the rest of Field Army, we are adapting whilst concurrently delivering 20,000 courses a year.We don’t have a monopoly on good ideas and greatly appreciate Unit feedback and engagement. If you do have an idea please utilise the Defence Ideas platform, tagged DST. 2

1. https://dle.ice.mod.gov.uk/course/index.php?categoryid=10304

2. Type Defence Ideas in the DefNet homepage.

Working outside the RLC’s Units

As a Tri-Service unit, the Defence School of Transport (DST) is a hub of diversity and collaboration. As part of The RLC's 'Attached 40%' WO2s Robert Cooke and Debindra Limbu and Sgt Lee Aldred share their experiences.Their stories provide insight into the challenges, rewards, and professional growth opportunities that come with working in such a dynamic environment.

WO2 Robert Cooke –A Multi-Service Perspective at DST

Working as the TCWO at the DST offers a unique blend of experiences that can be challenging but highly rewarding. Detached from a mainstream RLC unit, I’ve been exposed to a multi-service working environment with the RAF, Navy, Royal Marines, and Civil Service. Navigating the distinct policies of these four services has sharpened my adaptability, a skill that will be invaluable in future roles as a Senior Master Driver (SMD), particularly at a strategic level.

In my role, I also collaborate closely with Babcock International, ensuring contractual KPIs are met, conducting assurance audits, and offering guidance to protect the licence to operate. This involvement has provided me with an in-depth understanding of how contracts are set up, implemented, and maintained –experience that would typically be handled at a higher level in a mainstream unit. These insights have been invaluable.

Working within the DST provides the unique benefit of operating between unit and 2* level.This position allows me to stay updated on current practices, policies, and regulations while gaining firsthand experience working alongside higher formations to maintain operational capability. Additionally, DST has afforded me time and resources for professional development. I have completed several courses, including CMI Level 6 Management, ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, IOSH Level 3 Managing Safety, and the NEBOSH General

Certificate, all funded by the Staff Development department.

Socially, the Tri-Service Mess offers a rich variety of functions, allowing for networking and a broader understanding of what each service has been up to.

While there are some challenges to being detached, the professional growth and opportunities far outweigh the negatives, making this an immensely valuable experience.

WO2 Debindra Limbu –From Operational Tours to Culinary Excellence

Enlisting into The RLC in April 2005, my career journey over the past 19 years has been filled with gratitude and accomplishment. From my early days as a young military chef, to my current role as Regimental Catering Warrant Officer at the DST, I have had the privilege of serving alongside incredible individuals and tackling a wide range of challenges and opportunities.

My career has taken me around the globe, with deployments to Afghanistan, Cyprus, Canada, Kenya, and Germany. My experiences in Afghanistan were particularly formative, teaching me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of providing essential support to troops in the most demanding environments.

Throughout my career, my passion for delivering high-quality catering services has been a driving force. Whether in barracks or on the frontline, my goal has always been to ensure that our personnel are wellnourished and cared for.

My role at DST marks a significant milestone in my career. As RCWO, I am eager to contribute to the modernisation of our catering facilities, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the military community. I believe investing in modern facilities, offering quality food, and creating a welcoming environment can greatly improve the morale and well-being of our troops. It is my vision to set a new standard for military catering at DST.

Having lived through the challenges of military life, I understand the importance of access to basic necessities in the toughest conditions.

As I reflect on my career, I’m proud

of my contributions to The RLC and the British Army. I’ve had countless opportunities to learn, grow, and develop as a leader. My hope is that my legacy will be one of service, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Sgt Lee Aldred –Driving Excellence in Training and Standards

As the Training and Standards Assurance SNCO within Military Driver Training Squadron (MDTS), I hold a critical role in ensuring that our department operates at the highest levels of performance, compliance, and quality. My primary responsibility is overseeing the development, implementation, and evaluation of our instructors’ training needs, ensuring they have the resources necessary to provide top-quality instruction.

In addition to maintaining training standards, I serve as a mentor to help the team reach its full potential.This role has presented both challenges and opportunities, particularly as I have adapted my leadership and communication skills to work closely with civil servants –a new experience for me. Many of these civil servants have significant military experience, and their insights have greatly enhanced my own professional development.

My position allows me to collaborate with different branches of the British military and provides MDTS members with opportunities to enhance their skills, knowledge, and effectiveness.

The integration of civil servants and Tri-Service personnel fosters a collaborative environment that benefits from both fresh military insights and the deep expertise of civilian staff. This mix creates a wellrounded, effective team that drives better outcomes.

WO2s Cooke, Limbu, and Sgt Aldred exemplify the diversity and strength that comes with working in a Tri-Service environment. Their experiences highlight the invaluable contributions of the 'Attached 40%' at DST, showcasing how a blend of military expertise, adaptability, and collaboration leads to professional growth and mission success.

Achievements, funding success, and future plans –

By Maj S Marshall

The Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) cadet development committee has made significant strides over the past three years, and it’s time to share its progress, funding achievements, and plans. This article will outline how our strategy has shaped our success; highlighting the recent funding milestone, and discuss how we plan to engage and involve everyone moving forward.

Strategy update: Our path to improvement

Three years ago, we set out on a mission to improve our cadet program through a clear strategy. Our approach was simple but impactful: Rejuvenate, Engage, and Evolve.

Rejuvenate – Post-pandemic this meant updating our engagement methods and resources to better serve our cadets. We aimed to provide a more modern and effective cadence of communication, ensuring senior cadet leaders to Cadet Force Adult Volunteers were supported and aware of our ambition and commitment to supporting those cadets they lead and serve.

Engage - Focused on building stronger connections within our community; by fostering better relationships between cadets, regular units, and reserve forces, we aimed to create a supportive and cohesive network that enhances everyone’s experience.

RLC Cadets

Cadet Development Committee: Chair - Brigadier S Rayson (late RLC) Secretary: Maj S Marshall RLC

Evolve – We are now adapting to new challenges and opportunities. We knew that to stay relevant and effective, we needed to continuously improve and update our approach, keeping our program dynamic and forward-thinking. This has seen a standing commitment to content in Sustainer and direct brand engagement for all cadets from HQ RLC.

Funding success: A significant achievement

I’m excited to announce that we’ve recently secured £10,000 in support of our RLC cadets. This is a significant achievement that reflects the confidence and support of our stakeholders. This money will help us expand our activities, improve our resources, and offer more opportunities for our cadets. It’s a chance to take our program to the next level and make a tangible difference in the lives of our cadets.

Future engagement and activities: Moving forward together

Looking ahead, our goal is to build on this success and continue to engage and involve everyone in our programme. We have set up a dedicated page for RLC cadets, which functions similarly to a regular unit page. This new platform will highlight the

impressive work of our cadets, showcasing their achievements and fostering collaboration with both regular and reserve units. Additionally, we continually refresh our thinking to deliver the best service to both cadets and those who volunteer their time to support them. It reflects our values and commitment to excellence, while also providing a clearer picture of who we are and what we stand for. This was recently linked to a cadet rebadging ceremony where we welcomed the Aldershot and Farnborough ACF detachments into The RLC cadet family.

8 Cadets becoming an RLC detachment

In closing, our RLC cadet program has achieved a lot over the past three years. We’ve successfully implemented our strategy, secured valuable funding, and are set to engage more deeply with our community. This is an exciting time for us, and we look forward to building on our successes and continuing to make a positive difference. We hope you will look forward to hearing more on the impact we’ve had and how you too can get involved.

BFSAI RLC Cohesion Day

Uniting Strength and Spirit in the South Atlantic

By SSgt M Hackshaw SNCO IC Ammo Sub Depot & EOD

On the 30 August 2024 I organised a memorial RLC Cohesion Day for all available RLC personnel stationed within the British Forces South Atlantic Islands (BFSAI) - the Falklands. The event was a resounding success, uniting members from various departments and understanding the importance of togetherness within The RLC cohort. With a significant presence across most departments, The RLC plays an essential role in the functioning of BFSAI, despite operating in a predominantly RAF established environment. Their expertise and dedication to their trades are crucial in maintaining the smooth operation of logistics, ensuring that their contribution is both recognised and valued. RLC personnel continue to demonstrate an in depth understanding of their duties, often collaborating seamlessly with their RAF and Navy counterparts while maintaining their distinct identity and purpose.

Cohesion day served as an important reminder of all The RLC’s core values and its motto: “We Sustain.” It was a day not just for fun and camaraderie, but also to reinforce the idea that, despite being in a remote location, the personnel are united as one body. The gathering helped prevent the isolation that can sometimes come with such deployments, ensuring that members of our Corps remain focused and connected to the bigger picture.

The event featured various activities, including group photo, food, and games, fostering a sense of community among those present. It was a welcome break from the routine and an opportunity for everyone to relax, bond, and strengthen relationships outside of their daily roles.

The presence of Lt Col Askey (DCOS) and Maj Utley (2IC JFLU) added further significance to the day.

Both officers actively participated in the event, taking the time to engage with RLC personnel on a

personal level. They stressed the importance of recognising the hard work and dedication that goes into the maintaining the operational effectiveness of BFSAI. More than just a job, their involvement was a reminder that each member of The RLC plays a critical role in the larger mission and that their efforts do not go unnoticed.

Cohesion Day was not only a celebration of The RLC cohort’s collective spirit but also a moment to pause and reflect on the vital role they play within the border context of the British Force in the Falkland Islands. By coming together, RLC personnel strengthened their bonds, re-affirmed their purpose, and reminded themselves of their importance of teamwork and resilience in the face of their unique challenges.

This day was a testament to the enduring spirit of The RLC, ensuring that even in remote postings, they continue to embody their motto working together as one to sustain the force.

Seven personnel, rank ranged from Private to Brigadier, deployed as part of the RLC Sports Parachute Association (SPA) to Skydive Spain in Seville in October 2024 on a two-week Overseas Sports Visit (OSV) to maintain parachute jumping currency, and train for military and national-level competitions. The OSV afforded experienced parachutists the opportunity to develop individual skills while performing increasingly stimulating activities, requiring more refined and timely decision making in a controlled yet challenging environment.

Initial meteorological challenges for the first few days proved shortlived, and it became clear that Skydive Spain would be an ideal location for cohesive SPA training. The first activities undertaken were some confirmatory ‘hop & pop’ exits where the parachute is deployed immediately on exit from the aircraft at a medium altitude (5,000ft) to reinforce parachutists’ situational awareness and canopy piloting discipline. Once personnel were reconfirmed as safe and competent under canopy, high altitude lifts (13,500ft) were undertaken to refresh and develop Formation Skydiving (FS) skills in freefall.

Five personnel deployed for the first week. Pte David Platt was given expert FS coaching by Capt Amii Calway and LCpl Rhian Hogg to develop his confidence and skills in freefall. Concurrently, Lt Col Dave Pickersgill and Capt Dean Hoskins undertook Canopy Relative Work (CRW) training, where parachutes are flown in close proximity, a discipline which requires teamwork, split-second timing and skilled canopy piloting ability.

Brig Tim Symonds (who recently re-qualified as a skydiver with the

Ex SILVER ENDURANCE

Skydive Spain 13 - 26 October 2024

Army Parachute Association after a 16-year hiatus) and Capt Jon Caulder travelled to Seville for the second week of training. After a few medium altitude jumps to acquaint themselves with the dropzone, FS and CRW training resumed in earnest with the rest of the deployed personnel.

Whilst Capt Calway and LCpl Hogg worked on FS skills with Brig Symonds, Lt Col Pickersgill and Capt Hoskins introduced Capt Caulder to CRW. Over the course of

ten jumps, he challenged his instincts to build and fly two, three and four-stack Canopy Formations (CF) and gained both CF1 and CF2 competencies. Capt Caulder said: “Progression in skydiving isn’t just about pushing the limits of altitude and freefall; it’s also about mastering the art of canopy flight. During this week of canopy training, I focused on the new discipline of ‘Canopy Formation,’ it took me beyond the basics of maintaining separation distance between canopies. Instead, we skilfully manoeuvre our canopies into close proximity and fly them in precise formations. It’s a great reminder that true growth comes from embracing new challenges.”

Towards the end of the OSV, the whole group jumped from ‘the top’ (i.e. 13,500ft). Flags were flown and personnel successfully built ‘speed stars’ (where everyone dives out of the aircraft to form a ring in freefall) – the collective beaming faces confirmed that the OSV ended on a high!

While the RLC Silver Stars Army Parachute Display Team is currently not conducting displays, the RLC Sports Parachute Association is as alive (and current!) as ever.

Find us on social media (Facebook Skydive RLC/Instagram Skydiverlc) to find out how you can start your own skydiving journey.

From 8 to 14 September 2024, 19 Tank Transporter Squadron led 27 Regiment RLC’s battlefield study to Monte Cassino, Anzio and Rome. A Road to War Brief was conducted on the Thursday prior to the deployment and a priming reading pack was promulgated electronically to give everybody a broad-brush picture of the strategic necessity of the campaign and its relation to Operation OVERLORD. The main body deployed in the early hours of Sunday morning flying to Rome to meet up with the RLS team. From there the whole group drove down across the Gustav Line and into the Liri Valley.

Day 1:

Having set the scene for the first battle and the Rapido river crossing the temperature dropped and the heavens opened, replicating some of the conditions the US 36th Infantry Division, the T-Patchers, faced in its ill-fated attempt to secure a bridgehead. Syndicate A broke down the stages of a river/obstacle crossing prior to putting those stages into the context of the battle in January 1944. Running through the events of the day and the huge numbers of Allied casualties, Padre Pete Atkinson led a discussion about, in the face of an existential threat, whether we still have a national appetite to risk the lives of our Service Personnel against seemingly insurmountable odds. Having envisioned the river crossing from the Allied perspective, in small boats crossing the raging waters to face barbed wire, minefields and mortar bombardment; the group walked up into what would have been the heavily fortified and advantageously elevated town of St Angelo. Using the handrail of a doctrinal river crossing we then discussed the Axis perspective of defending the Gustav Line and the logistic challenges of reinforcing and rebuilding obstacles to prepare for subsequent Allied assaults. The second half of the day incorporated a visit to the Roman fort to the south of Monte Cassino Abbey to highlight the limited accuracy of Allied artillery fire and viewings of the film Operation MINCEMEAT to ground the Italian campaign in the

Battlefield Study

Ex Cassino Royale – The four battles of Monte Cassino and the liberation of Rome in 1944

deception plan which was part of the preparation of Operation OVERLORD.

Day 2:

In the morning, we visited the Polish War Cemetery, discussing II Corps’ part in Operations DICKENS and DIADEM, the 3rd and 4th battles. We then experienced firsthand the challenging terrain, walking up the steep craggy hillside to the memorial obelisk providing a useful vista of the battle grounds between the valley floor and the imposing Monte Cassino Abbey. Having discussed avenues of approach and the limitations of mechanisation, resorting to mules and manually carrying materiel over the rugged, pockmarked and cratered mountainsides, under the barrage of German artillery and machine gun fire, we visited the Doctor’s House of Hill 593, otherwise known as Sacrificial Hill. Here we discussed the casualty evacuation plan, the bravery and steadfastness of the Polish medical teams, conducting field surgery and

saving lives as shells and shrapnel rained down upon their hastily constructed canvas dressing stations. Following the same route that relay teams of stretcher bearers would have carried the wounded, we reached the Cavendish Road and the 4th “Scorpion” Armoured Regiment Memorial Sherman Tank.

At the memorial Syndicate B briefed about the obvious bottleneck for the armoured advance and how we would have now conducted a Vulnerable Point analysis prior to advancing into a channelled potential killing area. We then discussed the technological advances made since 1944 and the use of Unmanned

overarching strategic

Aerial Systems which could have been employed to survey the Allied axis of advance, obstacles and enemy positions.

After lunch, we visited the Monte Cassino Abbey itself. Walking up the hill to the now rebuilt Abbey we took in the views and discussed what a fantastic defensive observation post it could have been if the Germans had decided to use it as such.

On the Abbey steps we discussed the Allies’ controversial decision to bomb the Abbey during Operation AVENGER, the second battle. The poorly executed bombing, using the wrong munitions, turning the Abbey into a more defendable structure was then examined and Syndicate C delivered a brief about the Law of Armed Conflict, military necessity and proportionality balanced against the moral and ethically implications of bombing such a site of historic and religious significance. This led nicely onto a debate about the use of force and whether it was militarily necessary to target similarly protected sites in Gaza and Ukraine.

Day 3:

To round off the Monte Cassino element of the battlefield study we discussed the fourth battle, Operation DIADEM, which was the first truly collaboratively planned and sequenced attack of the Italian campaign. The use of flanking formations forced the Axis to culminate and withdraw allowing the Polish Corps to secure the ruined Abbey. We examined contemporary multi-domain operations and our levels of lethality in the 3rd line space. We then visited the Commonwealth War Cemetery of Cassino to pay our respect to the fallen and conduct a service of remembrance.

From the cemetery we drove to the Anzio, the location of Operation SHINGLE, a beach landing planned to relieve the pressure on the Allies during the first battle of Cassino. The group received a presentation in the Anzio Museum covering the whole campaign and particular focus on the indecision and frictions of Operation SHINGLE, referred to later by Winston Churchill as a “beached whale” of a failure.

Day 4:

To bring the beach landing to life we visited PETER beach, discussing the establishment of two Division’s worth of materiel and the implications of contradictory orders such as “be bold, don’t take any risks.” Much like other elements of the campaign the weather had a severe impact and as the Allies were waiting for non-existent reinforcements, the rivers surrounding Anzio flooded forcing the Allies to remain on the beach as Germany sent five divisions to push the Allies back into the sea. Given the amount of materiel ground dumped on the beach, as landing craft were repurposed in preparation for D-Day, the group split into their respective syndicates and discussed the logistic laydown, multi-point dispersal of stock and use of buildings of opportunity as the German railroad guns (Schwerer Gustav) targeted the beach from 100kms to the west. Given the initial success of the recce group having arrived in Rome three hours after the first landing craft arrived on the beach, we discussed the Allies’ failure to seize the initiative and maintain their momentum.

As part of the Operation SHINGLE, we discussed the challenges of operating in built-up areas. We studied how both the Allies and Germans fought over the same key terrain, at times sharing the same buildings to gain a tactical advantage. The second battle, Operation AVENGER, was in part to relieve the pressure on the Allies in Anzio. It then took almost five months for the Allies to break out of Anzio and march towards Rome. Which is what we proceeded to do that afternoon. Once in Rome we learned about the Italian resistance in Via Rasella and the subsequent massacre of 335 Italian civilians in the Ardeatine Caves. Visiting the site of the resistance led targeting of the Nazi Police in May 1944, you can still see the bullet holes in the

walls. We then discussed the decision to liberate Rome rather than pursue the German 10th Army allowing them to reset on the Gothic Line and although a propaganda coup, Carlo D’Este referred to it “as militarily stupid as it was insubordinate”.

Day 5:

A day to explore Rome and reflect, troops were asked to contemplate their own warfighting mentality and whether they were mentally and physically prepared for a fighting a near peer enemy. They were also invited to reflect on all the historic events we had covered during all four battles and what they may have done differently if they were in a position of operational command. The decision to bomb the Abbey was contentious but with the benefit of hindsight the Allies stagnation on the beaches of Anzio was the most criticised. As we came to the end of the battlefield study, singled out for his analysis, good humour and consistently adding value, Craftsman Wooley was awarded the Italian Medal for Merit.

A truly fantastic battlefield study, ably supported by the quite brilliant RLS team, during which lessons from history were brought to light in the context of modern divisional warfighting, friendships were formed, and memories made.

V Squadron Commando Logistic Regiment RM

CHIVENOR

CO: Maj D Withers RLC • SSM: WO2 M Ward RM

In 1964 it was recognised that logistical support to Commando forces required a bespoke solution with highly trained and motivated specialists providing expertise in the harshest of operating environments. The Squadron was born. Since then, the Squadron has adopted many names and structures, but one thing has remained unchanged, the unrelenting excellence of its personnel.

Over the years the Squadron has been known as: Operational Field Park, ORD Squadron, Logistic Squadron and Logistic Support Squadron.

But now as 3 Commando Brigade restructures to the UK Commando Force (UKCF), ditching conventional Amphibious Operations in favour of Maritime Special Ops the Sqn has had to modernise with it into its current guise, V Squadron.

The Commando Transformation project has seen the most significant change to the Sqn in recent years to reflect the changing nature of Commando operations. Whilst still very much an RLC Sqn at its core, the dynamic has changed. The Sqn workforce is now 60% Royal Marine and consists of Supply, Mobility, Petroleum, ES and Drone Troops as well as a Sqn HQ

capable of commanding a wide range of operations. Other RLC specialists have been utilised in the 1st line Sqns (D&W) providing very close support to Commando Strike Companies.

It is fitting that this transformation took place in 2024, the year in which we celebrated our 60th Anniversary. As part of the celebrations the Sqn hosted a special reunion, allowing serving Sqn members, to reunite and reminisce with old friends, remember those no longer with us and celebrate the day they earned their green berets and joined the best club in the world.

At the time of writing the Sqn is busier than ever, we have RLC specialists held at readiness in Cyprus to support activity in the middle east, conducting joint training in Australia, and supporting operations which for security reasons can’t be disclosed. Alongside this we have soldiers and marines at very high readiness to deploy on operations anywhere in the world. The Squadron is also enjoying a surge of success on the All-Arms Commando Course with both soldiers and officers earning their green berets.

Over the last 48 months as the only 2nd line support element in UKCF, V Sqn has been integral to

8 The Sqn and attachments on the flight deck of RFA Mounts Bay on AS23

every activity and operation that has been conducted, ranging from Arctic warfare training through operations in support of Ukraine and high readiness activations.

Op POLARBEAR saw a middle of the night activation for SHQ, followed by a not so simple transfer to Cyprus conducted in 13 hours from activation. Once in position, the planning was conducted and orders given. The Sqn was responsible for ensuring an evacuation handling centre could be built. Concurrently the Sqn located and processed the humanitarian aid stores, which quickly turned into a giant game of Jenga with the ship’s crews! Dayto-day activity of ammunition for ranges and ensuring the Littoral Response Group was logistically setup for success. Upon completion of the task the Sqn quickly switched to the recovery. Once again, RLC specialists were called on to provide support, ensuring that all equipment was returned to the UK in the correct manner, ready for it to be rapidly turned around for future operations.

Sqn Ops 2023 saw the first full Sqn deployment since OP HERRICK 14 in 2011, this time in support of discreet operations. A challenging but rewarding time, saw all cap badges and trade groups as well as a troop from the Armoured Support Group RM come together and thrive in an unconventional operating environment. An opportunity that

will likely be a career highlight for many of those involved.

The Commando Course

The Commando Course is a success story of the past two years. The Sqn has consistently run the most successful Pre-Commando Package (PCP) in the entire Commando Force with course-oncourse improvements in pass rate. The knock-on effect being more green lids in the Sqn and Corps. The course which prepares all ranks to undertake the All-Arms Commando Course, is physically and mentally demanding and requires instructors of the highest standards to get the best out of the students which the Sqn is very fortunate to have.

Ex AUSTERE WOLF 23

The exercise demonstrated not only the utility of the Sqn but also getting back into its traditional environment; the Sqn deployed onboard RFA Mounts Bay for a four-week exercise in Germany, enabling 104TSB by gaining theatre entry and co-ordinating the arrival of the UK TEG by sea. Taking a Troop of Commando Engineers under command the Sqn was able to secure and clear the beach before commanding the beach area and managing the arrival of the TEG.

Public engagements

Never ones to shy away from the spotlight WO2 Holloway and the OC, were present at the passing out parade at AFC Harrogate. This would be a RLC and family affair for WO2 Holloway, providing him the opportunity to present RLC accoutrements to his son. This visit was also an opportunity to speak with other trainees with aspirations of serving with The RLC and inform

them of the many benefits of volunteering for Commando Service as well as dispelling some myths, something we do not always have an opportunity to do.

Op INTERFORGE (M)

After a short notice task to provide specialist amphibious training to Ukrainian Marines came to UKCF, the Sqn was again front and centre. Tasked with the reception and processing of 750 Marines the Sqn deployed and took over the UK HAP at South Cerney with a small team over the deployment windows. Injecting our own brand of energy, humour and ruthless efficiency to the process, the team pushed out long hours issuing equipment to the Marines and preparing them to move to their training locations. It was an all-in effort with the SHQ working alongside the team.

The work didn’t stop there as the Sqn was also heavily involved in the training with the OC leading on the Combat Estimate training for the Bn HQs, supported by SMEs

from the Sqn as well as teams enabling the training activity. It was a humbling experience to be a small part of Ukraine’s fight for freedom and something that will stick with us for a long time.

Charity events on the home front

Members of the Sqn, laced up for the 60 miles in 60 hours challenge. Celebrating the Sqn’s 60th birthday and an opportunity to get outside and push the resilience barriers. The event was organised by Cpl Sarson in aid of the ABF with donations received and a comedy cheque presented.

Serve with the Commando Force

If you are a self-motivated individual who can be ready to deploy on operations anywhere in the world often at short notice in small teams then you could serve in the UK Commando Force and have a chance to earn the Green Beret. Speak to your Adjt/RCMO or contact us on Instagram @vcommandosquadron

8 Members of the Sqn team before the final leg of the 60 for 60 challenge

8 The next generation of RLC Commandos join the family

8 The OC and WO2 Holloway welcome future Commando Pte Barugh into the Corps

8 The Pre-Commando Package on a speed march

Ex NORTHERN STRIKE

The annual RLC Military Skills Competition (Ex NORTHERN STRIKE) was held at the Defence School of Transport, Leconfield, on 19 Oct 24.

Teams were tested on their military skills competency and knowledge - CBRN, CIED, BCD, CIS, Vehicle Recognition and Corps history. Role fitness was delivered as Representative Military Tasks involving loading a vehicle with combat supplies by hand. The shooting stand involved engaging four targets with five rounds on each, with points awarded for grouping. The teams also had to complete two loaded ‘fastest’ team marches. The 8km loaded march saw the teams compete over undulating terrain and challenging obstacles at pace. These ranged from water obstacles, both crawling through and traversing over, through to HESCO climbs and vehicle crossings. The fastest 2km team march was designed to test the physical and mental endurance of the teams. The route provided a challenge of running on wet sand, grass and tarmac after already completing the 8km loaded march and RMT physical activity.

Results

Stand winners

Best Military Skills Stand9 Regt Male

Best Shooting - 10 QOGLR Male

Representative Military Tasks29 Regt Veterans

Speed March 8km - 13 AASR Veterans

Fastest 2km - 13 AASR Veterans

Best teams

Best Male Reserve - 162 Regt

Best Male Regular - GARRC Sp Bn

Best Female Reserve - 165 Regt

Best Female Regular - 1 Regt

Best Mixed Reserve - 154 Regt

Best Mixed Regular - 29 Regt

Best Vets Reserve - 150 Regt

Best Vets Regular - 13 ASSR

President’s Trophy - LCpl

Whitehouse 150 Regt

Overall Winner - GARRC Sp Bn

On 27 Sep 24, The RLC Association Trust transferred its undertakings to a new Charitable Incorporated Organisation and is now known as The RLC Charity. The RLC Foundation as a subsidiary of the trust remains part of the new RLC Charity and following Charity Commission legal guidelines has changed its title. The RLC Foundation is now called RLC Connect.

RLC Connect continues with the existing aims of promoting professional development within the Corps through engagement and in partnership with industry and academia.

Military Planning Day, Colchester

On 25 Sep 24 the officers and soldiers of 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC hosted a military planning event at Roman Camp, Merville Barracks, Colchester. This military planning event showcased military operational logistics and exposed our corporate members to the military decision-making process.

The event was conducted under a tented simulated tactical area, which brought a sense of realism to the unfolding battlefield scenario. Under the mentorship of professional military officers, the event concentrated on how the military makes decisions and subsequently executes the orders process during the planning stages of a military operation. Corporate members received an appreciation of why mission analysis prior to military engagement is so important; it shows how the military makes sense of the environment in which it is operating, how the communication chain works and how it creates missions and tasks and how it manages inherent risks and uncertainties. A great event, thank you 13 AASR.

RLC Connect

Military and Industry Logistics Collaboration Day

On 2 Oct 24, PA Consulting hosted a Military and Industry Logistics Collaboration Day at its recently refurbished Global Innovation and Technology Centre at Melbourn, Hertfordshire. This event represented an opportunity for 40 members of the Army logistic community and RLC Connect members to engage in workshops looking at the logistical challenges currently facing Defence. The themes examined how the collaboration between military logisticians and industry counterparts could be developed and improved to support operational deployment of the Army in a future conflict scenario. The aim was to enhance understanding of each other’s processes and capabilities, identify opportunities and help develop closer cooperation and collaboration.

The day included a tour of the Global Innovation Technology Centre. The tour showcased PA Consulting's unique ability to combine science, engineering, design and human factors, amongst other capabilities. It was a very informative day, and feedback has been very positive. Thank you, PA Consulting.

8 Military Planning Cohort - What a cracking day

8 Our Mission Plan is the best plan

8 PA Consulting attendees

8 Group discussion

The Royal Logistic Corps Museum’s latest exhibition, Rations for Two, tells the story of pregnancy and maternity in the British Army. From the famous fawn maternity smock to the modern MTP maternity uniform, thirty years of maternity uniforms are displayed next to the stories of mothers who serve. The exhibition was opened by the Colonel RLC, Colonel Jacqueline Powell ADC, who also features in the display.

Today, pregnant servicewomen are issued an expanding maternity uniform and serve in non-combat roles right up until their due date. They command regiments, plan operations and run medical centres. Breastfeeding women camo-up in foxholes, drive tank transporters and train troops. However, this was not always the case, and prior to August 1990 British servicewomen were discharged at 14 weeks pregnant. When the MOD implemented maternity leave in 1990 it did so practically overnight, having been found in breach of the 1978 EU Directive which nullified any military exemptions to the Sex Discrimination Act (1975). It was a challenging new era for both servicewomen and the Chain of Command, navigating how pregnant and postpartum women could be soldiers.

Uniform has a considerable impact on a soldier’s sense of identity and can affect unit cohesion. Previous iterations of the maternity uniform, such as the fawn maternity smock that changed very little from 1997 to 2017, singled out pregnant servicewomen as different from their unit. The modern MTP maternity shirt and trousers

Rations for Two: Pregnancy and Maternity in the British Army

By Sam Jolley, Collections Manager The Royal Logistic Corps Museum

maintain a soldier’s military identity, whilst also considering the needs of a growing bump.

Juggling parenthood and a career can bring challenges in any job, but the demands of military service often put extra pressure on new parents. In recent years the Defence Breast Feeding Network has supported the implementation of breastfeeding rooms across 100 defence sites. Many Physical Training Instructors are now proficient in pre- and post-natal exercise programmes, helping

servicewomen return from maternity leave fighting fit in safe and sustainable ways. Wraparound childcare funding, before and after school care for primary school children, helps soldiers commit to both career and family. Rations for Two: Pregnancy and Maternity in the British Army runs until 26 July 2025. The Museum is open from 09.30 to 16.00, Tuesday to Saturday. Entrance is free.

8 Corporal Natasha Day MBE, whose story features in the exhibition, with her son Charlie

1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

BICESTER

CO: Lt Col L Butler MBE

• Adjt:

Capt

Bevan

• RSM: WO1 S Filmer

As Op CABRIT 14 draws to a close, Fuel & GT Tp successfully ensured a smooth handover from the 5 RIFLES BG to the RDG BG by executing both the inload and outload of general freight at Paldiski Port. A week of housekeeping and equipment care has ensured that the final 1 Regt commitment to the EFP BG on Op CABRIT 15, is set up for success. Those deploying on Op CABRIT 15 have been preparing for their upcoming tour through Pre-Deployment Training. Ex RISING PHOENIX, gave the soldiers the opportunity to practice Section level tactics and logistic operations. Fuel and GT Tp then deployed onto Ex LETHAL PHOENIX where it enjoyed a fantastic opportunity to conduct LFTT up to Section level on Dartmoor Trg Area. The training concluded on Ex COMBINED TUSK, a HQ validation Ex alongside 3 Bn REME. The Troop is now fully prepared to take up the mantle on what will be the Regt’s final CABRIT rotation in support of 20 ABCT.

12 (CS) Squadron

On 25 Aug 24, 12 (CS) Sqn, recovered from Op INTERLINK. A rewarding and busy six months, the ROTO saw the Sqn navigate numerous operational and tactical changes. These included the relocation of the technical areas and accommodation, the early stages of the transition towards the newly announced NATO Security Assistance and Training Ukraine (NSATU) mission, for which the LEN played a critical role in aiding planning. 1 Regt personnel were also heavily involved in efforts to enhance the visibility and efficiency of the supply chain into Ukraine. Back in the UK, personnel within the ROG deployed on Op LAZURITE, and supported Ex WYVERN TOUR. The ROG also supported Ex DYNAMIC VICTORY for RMAS and Ex TIMBER TRUSS for Phase 2 of the RLC Troop Commanders’ Course. The secondary key focus has been

maintaining and restoring the Regimental fleet in preparation for Ex CYCLONE FIST and moving towards a readiness period in 2025.

23 (GS) Squadron

Members of the Sqn, both from Stores Tp and BLRV Tp, have been deployed in support of Ops: INTERLINK, CABRIT and LAZURITE. On Op CABRIT 14, Stores Tp was involved in military exercises as well as opportunities for educational development. Throughout Ex SPRING STORM, the principal exercise for 5 RIFLES BG, Stores Tp deployed a supply team 200km south of Tapa and was able to ensure efficient delivery of fastmoving spares to their dependencies. Throughout their time in Estonia, the Tp was able to complete an IBSR shoot as well as Urban Training. While in Estonia, Pte Claughan and Pte Gurung were presented with their WSM by the Secretary of State for Defence. The Sqn also led a Battlefield Study to Monte Cassino which took 40 personnel from the Regt from Italy. The Sqn also organised the Regimental Military Skills Competition as the third event of

the CO’s Shield. The Sqn came out victorious in what was an enjoyable day.

74 (HQ) Squadron

Members of 74 HQ Sqn have supported Op INTERLINK, Op CABRIT and Op LAZURITE. Comms Troop had the opportunity to prepare and execute Ex RHINO LINK (15 - 26 July 24). Cpl Graham (RSI) with support from LCpl McAllister (RSI) and LCpl Penaluna (RSI), planned and delivered the exercise which aimed to strengthen the fundamental trade skills required of a Driver Communications Specialist. This was accomplished by means of a week-long PACEX aimed at verifying and testing radio platforms, followed by a second week honing their skills whilst living in field conditions. The exercise also allowed the troop to develop the driver side of the trade.

Back in camp the Sqn has been heavily involved in the Regimental Cricket team who won the RLC T20 competition and reached the semi-finals of the Army Cup this year.

4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

ABINGDON

CO: Lt Col M

Brown

• Adjt: Capt C Nottage • RSM: WO1 A Smith

4 Regiment RLC has enjoyed a busy summer of sport and adventurous training following the Regt’s return from Op LINOTYPER. This was achieved whilst deploying 60 CS Sqn on Op INTERLINK, building 4 CS Sqn towards Op CABRIT and preparing for RHQ participation on Ex CERBERUS 24.

The inaugural RLC Festival of Sport (FoS) in July saw 4 Regt compete in a variety of events, emerging victorious in British Army Warrior Fitness and across several categories in the Cross-Country running and runners up in the under 600 Tug of War competition. The 4 Regt Rugby Team ‘The Dalton Eagles’ had a very successful summer, finishing second at the FoS, and winning the Army Community 7s Tournament. The Inter Services 7s Tournament

concluded their season with another fine runners-up finish.

78 members of the Unit were able to conduct three weeks of AT in Capel Curig, challenging themselves by mountain biking on the trails and summer mountaineering in the Northern Welsh hills. The troops thoroughly enjoyed their time away and benefitted from some rare sunny Welsh weather with all having the opportunity to complete both Summer Mountain Foundation and Mountain Bike Trainer qualifications.

Post summer leave, full focus returned to readiness and operations. 60 CS Sqn (Maj John Petch) led elements of his sub-unit and other unit attachments to assume responsibility in Op INTERLINK nodes in Poland, Romania, and Slovakia. In-barracks, the Regt tested a wargaming tool in

development for JOTAC at the LWC. 4 and 7 Regiments exercised a hasty planning cycle and orders group. Feedback will modify the ruleset and make it more user friendly for future JOTAC courses, as well as a requestable resource for BG level audiences.

We also commenced the first of our ‘WARDEV Speaker Series’ with Maj Katy Coulthard (OC 41 Coy, 4MI), addressing ‘Logistics in Contact: Lessons from Ukraine’. The importance of operational logistics and considerations surrounding resupply were identified as key failures of the current war.

Targeting log nodes to deny and destroy resupply was the primary mechanism to slow the pace of battle. Understanding the enemy’s improved find and strike capabilities, and the impact of Electronic Warfare signatures emphasised the criticality of enforcing camouflage and concealment when static, as well as the importance of decoys and deception in warfighting. The Officer to Corporal audience used a collaborative session afterwards to discuss the key themes, using them to inform our priorities for TTP.

8 4 and 7 RLC Wargaming

8 Trail adventures in the Welsh woodlands

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

DISHFORTH

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

6 Regiment RLC’s focus, while committed to the Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (Land) (VJTF(L)), has been the preparation for, and deployment on, Ex WESSEX STORM (Ex WS): as part of the first ‘Super WESSEX’ which validated two battlegroups and the BSG simultaneously.

During Ex WS, 6 Regt conducted rigorous training, validation and optimisation; focusing on the contemporary environment throughout. The Regt deployed the full fleet on a 300km road move to Salisbury Plain Training Area before dispersing into squadron locations. Squadron level BCS training (while supporting battlegroup live firing), refined and tested the Regt’s SOPs for situations including small arms attacks, indirect fire, CBRN and UAVs. This also allowed experimentation, including improving camouflage, concealment, dispersion and deception; especially against the constantly increasing UAV threat. Battlegroup integration was conducted, with 1 R YORKS and 1 SCOTS GDS. With 7 Bde providing a large number of LUCIE nightvision devices, CS Sqns were able to conduct quality night training, conducting tactical moves and DPs at night, entirely on NVDs. This challenging training greatly improves survivability while conducting resupply tasks.

6 Regt’s training set the conditions for success during a testing validation phase. Integration with 7 Regt, providing third-line logistics, was well tested – including a range of Priority 5 requests. This allowed for rapid resupplies to the BSA and Battlegroups, enhancing the Brigade’s Combat Effectiveness - vehicle availability actually increased throughout the exercise. Alongside routine resupplies and IRGs, 6 Regt delivered large-scale CBRN decontamination, and force protection for forward medical teams. Throughout, close cooperation with REME, RAMC and RMP elements saw the BSG fully resource the requirements of both Battlegroups.

A successful conclusion of the

exercise saw 6 Regt validated as 7 Brigade’s Close Support Logistic Regt. While on Ex WS, 6 Regt transitioned from the NATO Response Force (NRF) to the Allied Reaction Force (ARF), which sets the Regt as the lead for 2nd line logistic capabilities in support of ARRC’s high-readiness force. This means the Regt continues to hold troops at high readiness to deploy.

Despite the high-level of core outputs, 6 Regt has still made time to focus on developing personnel and sporting excellence. After Ex WS, the Regt has exploited opportunities to run multiple AT expeds including mountain biking, rock climbing and mountaineering –even utilising the Unit Authorised AT process, so a leadership development course could escape the classroom and go climbing locally at Brimham Rocks.

Sport remains a key part of 6 Regt’s daily business, and success here has come in many forms. 6 Regt won the Army (North) Major Unit Badminton competition (both the team and individual champions), and the team headed to the Army Championships in November. 6 Regt won the Bari Cup hockey tournament, with a relatively new team playing at a high level from the start. The Regt was also named the RLC FA Major Unit Football champions, with a tense match against 7 Regt ending 2-0. In the Bismark Challenge, 6 Regt’s female team won first place in impressive style, with the Regt narrowly finishing second of 180 teams across 1 Div.

Looking forward, the Regt will shift its focus onto preparing for Ex STEADFAST DART (STDT25).

STDT25 is a SHAPE sponsored exercise testing the deployment of the ARF. 6 Regt will travel over 800km to Romania to establish the BSG and provide logistic support to the BG and possibly our NATO partners, as well as conducting live firing training.

8 The 6 Regt Bismark Challenge teams

8 North Army Badminton Championship Major Unit Winners

7 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

ABINGDON

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

As the prime logistic component within 102 Operational Sustainment Brigade (102OSB), 7 Regiment RLC remains ready to commit personnel to support 1 (UK) Division across the globe, with 68 Squadron at the heart of those deployments. 68 Sqn has balanced NATO readiness with a significant pace of life in the Regt as the Sqn conducts essential training and several essential deployments in trade.

NATO’s Allied Reaction Force (ARF) commitment has been the core of 68 Sqn commitments. Providing logistic support for NATO’s Rapid Response Division, as part of a wider strategic mission. To hone its skills for the ARF, the Sqn deployed on Ex WESSEX STORM, a six-week exercise, with nodes spread across the UK, working with other Sqns within 7 Regt to deliver stores and materiel to dependencies.

68 Sqn also continues to support on operations around the globe. Firstly, Op INTERFLEX / INTERLINK as part of the UK’s enduring support to Ukraine. Located in the UK and across Europe, providing logistic support to British and Ukrainian forces including real life support to training and supplying essential stores to Ukrainian personnel. Next, Op SHADER where SP from 68 Sqn have taken valuable roles within the British Army’s presence in Cyprus, coordinating the smooth movement of inventory through the location

and assisting theatre demands for ammunition.

In addition to their standing commitments, 68 Sqn has utilised its trades to assist with British commitments within Estonia, BATUK, BFSAI, BATSUB and operations in Somalia.

Following Ex WESSEX STORM, the other Sqns within the Regt

have realigned their focus on Readiness for deployments across the globe: The Regimental main effort being, Ex STEADFAST DART 2025 (Ex STDT25). 17 Fuel & General Transport Squadron is the lead for this deployment under the auspices of the 7 Regt RHQ, where it, with elements of 617 HQ Sqn, will deploy under 102OSB for up to four months as part of the ARF Logistic Support Group.

Whilst a large part of the Regt is deployed in Romania on Ex STDT25, 9 F&GT Sqn will be preparing and training for the early fielding receipt of twenty Palletised Load System (PLS) platforms from Ashchurch. With 68 Sqn conducting PDT for the next rotation of Op INTERLINK. Finally, 7 Regt would like to thank all present and past serving members of the Regt for attending the Regimental day. Particular thanks go to Maj Gen (Retd) Duncan Capps CBE for taking the parade on what will be his final act as Regimental Colonel. We wish him all the best for the future. Bialo Czerwoni.

8 7 Regt were team winners of the Military Cup at the Andover Trail Half Marathon

8 Maj Gen Duncan Capps CBE presenting Coronation Medals to members of 7 Regt on Orzel Day

8 Regimental dismounted GPMG training

9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULLAVINGTON

CO: Lt Col S Lavery • Adjt: Capt A Hooper • RSM: WO1 D Ravenscroft

9 Regiment RLC has maintained exceptional output with both overseas and UK training while executing commitments at home. The Regt has been keeping busy while improving readiness for next year.

Training

In September, a composite troop with elements from 21 and 66 Sqn deployed to Albania on Ex AUSTERE WOLF. The troop established a Theatre Enabling Group headquarters to facilitate the delivery of training to 104 Brigade as well as providing real life support to other activity in the region.

21 Sqn also deployed on Ex KEY PRIME, a three-week training package covering mounted and dismounted tactical drills at both Tp and Sqn level, culminating in an urban operations package in the final week. This has ensured its readiness for the coming year and allowed the soldiers to practice both their green and trade skills in the field.

The regimental Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL team earned a silver medal this year. An excellent achievement reflecting their tactical ability and physical and mental resilience. The Regt also had two teams participate in Ex NORTHERN STRIKE with great success, especially in the military knowledge stand.

Overseas studies

Autumn has seen a range of developmental opportunities outside of exercising and military skills competitions, including a number of Battlefield Studies.

94 Sqn ran Ex ALLIES STUDY to Belgium, which focussed on the Battle of the Bulge. Soldiers visited the Museum of War and discussed how the individual defensive positions used at the time would fare in modern warfare. Soldiers also visited the 101st Airborne Museum where they were taught about how the Ukrainian army is using strategic lessons from the

past to inform their planning.

The 9 Regt RLC LAD led Ex BUCKLEY SCHOLAR to Eastern Germany, examining the advance of the Red Army in 1945 from the perspective of Seelow Heights and Berlin in the final days of the Third Reich. Soldiers related the events at Seelow Heights to modern peeron-peer warfare and how new technology, doctrine and weapons could have changed the TTPs used by both militaries.

Competition and sport

9 Regt has continued its tradition of sporting success in recent months, from hockey and badminton teams

8 Pte Rose finished first in Ex PANTHERS DOKO

in respective Corps tournaments, to members of the Regt taking part in a netball tour to South Africa, playing rugby for The RLC and participating in the Army Squash Championships.

Charity

Eight personnel in two teams from 9 Regt completed Ex TRAILWALKER, a challenging 100km ultramarathon organised by the Gurkha Welfare Trust. Soldiers from across the Regt also participated in Ex PANTHERS DOKO, a five-kilometre best effort carrying a traditional Nepalese basket weighing 15kgs. The event was won by Pte Rose who finished in 29 minutes and 4 seconds.

Looking Forward

9 Regt is now preparing for Ex STEADFAST DART, which will see a large proportion of the unit supporting the ARF road move from Germany to Romania. We will maintain readiness in line with the Army Operating Order and Forward Land Forces as we move into 2025.

8 9 Regt awarded silver on Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL

10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment ALDERSHOT

COMMANDER: Lt Col O Nyman • Adjt: Capt K Kormi • RSM: WO1 T Limbu

CT C – Ex KHUKURI OLYMPIAN

The autumn period has been busy for 10 The Queens’ Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment, with continuous training as part of the Allied Response Force (ARF). In September, the Regt deployed on a regimental exercise to focus on trade training for the Regt’s five trades. The aim was to trial and practice optimised SOPs developed from lessons learnt in contemporary theatres. For the Drivers, it proved to be a fantastic test. With each squadron spread between different training areas around the South of England, movement was constant and demanding.

The transport troops were always on the move but utilising small packets of just a few vehicles led by Junior NCOs, to minimise their footprint. Equally, the Comms Specs had to focus on their footprint establishing spread out, dug in, HQs and re-broadcasts maintaining lines of communication, while focusing on camouflage and concealment. For the Suppliers, LogIS was employed to host live accounts but with the complexity of using a novel SkyLink comms suite to maintain connectivity.

The Pet Ops were tested throughout due to short timelines and ever-changing demands for bulk fuel storage as the missions progressed. They proved to be agile and efficient, with a PBFI installation only taking a matter of hours to establish towards the latter stages of the exercise. Finally, the Chefs deployed into the field to sustain the troops with fresh rations cooked in austere environments. Deep within

woodblocks and under arduous weather conditions they proved to be a force multiplier.

Adventurous Training

The Regt has also been busy with multiple adventurous training activities. Twelve soldiers completed an introduction to skydiving course, and although the weather was uncertain all twelve managed to complete multiple jumps. We look forward to seeing them progress on towards their instructor qualifications and taking more SP from the unit away to the US in early 2025.

28 Sqn deployed 60 soldiers on Ex TIGER’S TEETH to conduct a multi-activity package in Bavaria, Germany and Lermoos, Austria. Throughout the course of the two weeks, soldiers enjoyed some summer mountaineering summiting Mt. Rubihorn (6,480ft), practiced the climbing and belaying during rock climbing, kayaked on the crystal water of the Bavarian lakes, and raced down the Austrian slopes under the cable carts on mountain bikes. A hugely fulfilling package and well-earned reward for the Sqn’s soldiers.

8 10 QOGLR’s skydivers

Ex Cambrian Patrol

October could have meant only one thing for eight driven and determined soldiers. It was time to put weeks’ worth of preparation and commitment to the test as they crossed the start point for Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL. Having trained alongside other units of the Brigade of Gurkhas, Nepali Army and the Rifles, the 10 QOGLR team felt strong and ready for the 70km patrol with military skills stands. The team did fantastically on each stand and made great time on the patrol finishing with a silver medal. A great effort and fantastic achievement by eight top soldiers.

Trailwalker

Another great achievement was won by the 10 QOGLR Trailwalker team which completed the 100km race over the South Downs in just 12 hours and 52 minutes! This severely impressive time saw it finish 16th out of more than 270 teams. Great effort and congratulations to the team!

Dashain and Tihar

Finally, one of the highlights of the QOGLR calendar, Dashain and Tihar, have been celebrated among the Regt and friends. Alongside the festivities, the Regt was privileged to see so many of our talented soldiers perform at the Dashain celebration in Aldershot.

8 The 10 QOGLR Cambrian Patrol team

11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Regiment RLC

DIDCOT

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

11 EOD & Search Regiment RLC continues to provide bespoke ammunition technical support to wider army units on operations at home and abroad. Within quarter three the Regt has deployed 42 service personnel to 16 countries, providing AT support to 26 overseas activities. These include major international inter-operability exercises and Ops ELGIN and ARENGA. This is in addition to the 13 SP deployed on enduring operations across the globe such as Op ALUMINUM, CABRIT, INTERLINK, SHADER and SCORPIUS. Within the UK, 36 SP have provided AT support to 21 UK-based activities, including GMAT, safe-to-move inspections, logistic disposals, assisting with weapon trails and producing field-storage licenses.

Weapons Intelligence Specialist Warrant Officer (WISWO) Op INHERENT RESOLVE/Op SHADER. By WO2 Budgell The Regt routinely supports Op INHERENT RESOLVE and Op SHADER through the deployment of the WISWO for – typically – sixmonth rotations. The WISWO’s responsibility on Op SHADER is to provide Weapons and Technical Intelligence support to the Combined Joint Task Force (CJTF) 2* HQ at camp Arifjan Kuwait. Explosive threats to Force Protection (FP) are identified from Collectable Exploitable Material (CEM) and analysed by the WISWO. Recommendations are then made to ensure risk factors to FP are As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP).

The WISWO’s position alternates

between Camp Arifjan, Kuwait and Erbil Air Base, Iraq. Primarily focused on Counter IED (CIED) the WISWO can also conduct exploitation on all explosive threats, including conventional munitions and One Way Attack Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (OWAUAV).

Continued Close Support

Ammunition Detachment (CSAD) support to Op CABRIT. By Sgt Donaldson, 721 EOD Sqn 11 EOD&S Regt routinely deploys Close Support Ammunition

8 While deployed on Op CABRIT the CSAD has represented the Theatre Support Squadron in several sporting competitions

Detachment (CSAD) pairs to numerous operational theatres, including Op CABRIT (Estonia) which is a standing commitment. In 2024 the Op CABRIT CSAD have enabled multiple major training activities such as Ex SWIFT RESPONSE in collaboration with 16 Air Assault Brigade, Ex SPRING STORM, and a weapons effect demo for a number of NATO allies. Supporting the resident Battlegroup deployed to the region, CSAD delivered a unique explosive power demo, showcasing a variety of munition effects to the audience. In addition to supporting these activities, they have ensured the integrity and serviceability of ammunition held in theatre, through the physical inspection of, and technical accounting of, in-theatre stocks. The main effort toward the end of Op CABRIT 14 was ensuring the backload and disposal of unserviceable and surplus ammunition which included a logistic demolition with an NEQ of 600kg. Outside of routine work the CSAD has represented the Theatre Support Squadron in sporting activities such as Rugby, Tug of War, and the Battlegroup 5km race.

8 WISWOs evaluate the explosive treat from UAVs in addition to conventional munitions and IEDs

8 A CSAD member getting to grips with Estonian weather

13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER

CO: Lt Col P Chapman • Adjt: Capt D Vachha • RSM: WO1 D Bunn

Operations and global engagements

This period has seen the return of a subunit from Op ORBITAL, another working under the 82nd Airborne Division in the US on Ex RATTLESNAKE, with smaller teams supporting search and rescue operations in the South Atlantic, training and support delivered to MAB exercises, a Short-Term Training Team to Oman to enable specialised training to the Sultan of Oman’s Parachute Regiment and the Sultan’s Special Forces, as well as wider 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team (16 AA BCT) deployments to Op TOSCA and Ex CHAMELEON.

A milestone celebration

In September 2024, the Regt held a parade and families evening to mark its 25th anniversary - a significant milestone. During the ceremony the Colonel RLC presented recipients with their King’s Coronation Medals and reflected on the Regt’s storied history.

Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL Gold

Known as the toughest military skills competition in the world, Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL demands exceptional physical and mental endurance. Having conducted an arduous selection and preparation package in Sennybridge, the two regimental teams entered the competition confident and fully prepared. Both teams put in an outstanding performance earning the Regiment a gold and silver medal. Of note the gold was the only top accolade won by a CSS unit in 2024.

The RLC Military Skills competition

Although getting fastest 8km march, fastest 2km march and best Veterans, the 13 AASR Vets team narrowly missed out on first place by four points. The mixed team performed admirably too finishing second in class and third overall in the military stands.

Arnhem 80 celebrations

Another milestone in the legacy of the Regt’s forbearers saw soldiers from across 13 AASR in Arnhem for the 80th anniversary of Op MARKET GARDEN. Led by CGS, CFA, Comd 1 (UK) Division and Comd 16 AA BCT; members of the Regt jumped into the original Op MARKET GARDEN drop zones from 1944 along with airborne forces from other NATO countries. The crowning moment saw OC and SSM 47 AD Sqn parachute from an original WWII Dakota to commemorate the role and sacrifice of Air Despatchers during the operation.

Sport

In sport we have seen successes winning the REME Major and Minor Unit X-Country Championships, echoed with the Regimental team becoming Midlands Athletics and X-Country championships. Strong results at the Berlin and Frankfurt marathons and successes in

football and the Regimental racket sports tour to Nepal amplified a good quarter of sport for 13 AASR.

A look ahead

On the horizon is winter sports and AT, inter-subunit boxing, a subunit deployment on Op INTERLINK LEN, a subunit deployment on Op ORBITAL, summer Public Duties in 2025 and a six-week deployment to support US SF exercising in Germany.

Promotions

As we look to our future, we congratulate the 47 soldiers from 13 AASR selected for promotion to Lance Corporal in October 2024. We wish them all the best in their future roles both within and outside the Unit.

13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC

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

8 The 13 AASR team awarded a gold medal on Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL

8 Col Jackie Powell ADC presented the King’s Coronation medals

8 Members of 13 AASR jumped into the Arnhem DZs at Arnhem 80

51 Sqn

17 Port & Marine Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

SOUTHAMPTON

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

51 Squadron has continued to deploy Port Task Groups into Europe and across the world in support of various activities from Ex CERBERUS to Op CABRIT and more. On top of these commitments, the Sqn deployed on Ex KRAKEN STORM to Sennelager Training Area, Germany in early August, developing the Sqn’s urban fighting skills. From 16 Sept to 01 Oct, 51 Sqn deployed to Albania on Ex AUSTERE WOLF 24, in loading 1 RYORKS to the Balkan regions for NATO exercises, as well as conducting a Theatre Enabling Group offload from a RORO ferry at anchor.

52 Sqn

52 Squadron has continued to work the Sea Mounting Centre, ensuring the smooth loading and unloading of shipping to enable UK forces to deploy globally.

The Sqn has continued its support to the Royal Navy, with a detachment aboard RFA Lyme Bay enabling Ex PREDATORS RUN in Australia – a Brigade level amphibious exercise with the UK, US and Australian militaries. Another detachment was deployed, at short notice, to embark on RFA Mounts Bay and provide ship-to-shore logistics capability to the forces at readiness in the Eastern Mediterranean.

A Mexeflote crew from 52 Sqn deployed on Ex AUSTERE WOLF in

September, providing the essential capability of offloading a ship while at anchor to the exercising TEG.

The Sqn also conducted Sailing AT around Mallorca, developing teamwork and camaraderie between personnel from across the Regiment.

53 Sqn

53 Squadron has been heavily tasked in enabling regimental, and wider army activity. The PMCC team continue to work hard to ensure the SMC runs smoothly, most recently deploying over 200 vehicles and containers on Ex AUSTERE WOLF.

The Operational Hygiene Troop continue to deploy in support of numerous exercises, most

recently Ex JORVIK STORM, enabling the Joint Expeditionary Force Field Hospital.

Comms troop have deployed regularly in support of various regimental exercises, including Ex KRAKEN STORM and Ex AUSTERE WOLF, including establishing a full OF4 Headquarters in an austere setting on AUSTERE WOLF. Around these busy commitments the Sqn conducted and ITR training camp on the Isle of Wight in September to ensure currency and readiness to deploy is maintained throughout the Sqn.

Wksp

The REME personnel of the Wksp have been involved in the full range of regimental activity. Metalsmiths are aligned to LRG(N) in the Eastern Mediterranean and LRG(S) in the Indo-Pacific providing essential repair and maintenance capability to the deployed teams. Personnel from the Wksp have also deployed to provide essential support to various exercises, most recently Ex AUSTERE WOLF, which saw a full fitter section deploy to Albania, providing ES to a fleet of over 100 vehicles.

Extramural

In July, several teams from the regiment competed at the RLC Festival of Sport, winning the Rugby and Netball competitions. The Rugby 7s team continued the trend on 24 Jul, winning the InterService championship. The Regt continues its success in water sports with Pte McCreery winning the Inter-Services Slalom Windsurfing Championship. In addition to sporting success the Regimental Welfare team work tirelessly to support our people and the veteran community, with veteran’s coffee mornings running monthly providing a chance for past and present regimental family to come together.

8 Durres Naval Base in Albania was the location for Ex AUSTERE WOLF

8 51 Sqn conducting urban training in Sennelager

25 Training Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

LECONFIELD

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

Ex NORTHERN STRIKE 24, planned and executed by 25 Regiment RLC and the wider Defence School of Transport took place on 19 Oct 24. This exercise showcased the exceptional capabilities and teamwork of soldiers from across The RLC. The event brought together 44 teams both Regular and Reserve representing the diverse strength and skill from across the Corps.

This competition aimed to test the skills and capabilities of the participants in a realistic and demanding environment, focusing on the Land Warfare’s Essential Skills: Shoot, Move, Communicate and Medicate. Taking place on the DST training area, the teams endured mental, physical, and cognitive tasks. Despite the demanding conditions, the teams displayed strength and maintained a healthy competitive spirit throughout. The exercise was broken into six phases.

Phase 1 of the competition involved a thorough kit inspection to ensure that participating teams possessed the appropriate kit and equipment prior to their arrival. This inspection is conducted to verify that all teams have the necessary resources for the competition.

Phase 2 required participants to apply their military skills and knowledge in high-pressure situations to demonstrate their operational effectiveness. This phase focused on assessing their abilities and readiness for real-life combat scenarios. BCD, CIED, Communications, CBRN and OPFOR Recognition were all tested with an additional Corps history stand.

Phase 3 of the event involved an 8km loaded march. The teams had to work together and demonstrate a strong sense of cohesion and effort to overcome each task they encountered along the route whilst attempting to complete the course in the fastest time possible.

Phase 4 was the Representative Military Task. Each team was required to hand load an EPLS with

critical supplies in the fastest time. Participants were provided with a list of required items, which they had to locate and load safely for transportation.

Phase 5 involved testing the soldiers’ shooting skills in a combat situation. As they entered the range, they were required to put their training into practice and demonstrate their personal weapon proficiency. This phase aimed to assess their ability to handle real-life scenarios and engage targets effectively.

Phase 6 was the culmination of the rigorous exercise; a best effort 2km speed march, with a stretcher for the final sprint. The competitors

displayed outstanding determination and skill throughout the entire phase, pushing themselves to their limits. This last race tested their endurance, agility, and mental strength as they navigated through the everchanging landscape.

The Gurkha ARRC Sp Bn emerged as the overall winners with the highest score throughout the entire day of the competition. They showcased exceptional skills, teamwork, and determination, which led them to secure the top position. 13 Regt RLC Veterans claimed the prize for both 8km and 2km speed marches demonstrating fantastic commitment and mental resolve. Overall, an outstanding level of commitment and effort was demonstrated by every team, with 10 regiments walking away with silverware for their efforts.

Additionally, this year’s Presidents Trophy was awarded to LCpl Whitehouse of 150 Regt RLC, for demonstrating exceptional courage and determination.

NORTHERN STRIKE 2024 was a fiercely contested event that showcased the dedication and sportsmanship of all participating teams. The competition was marked by intense effort and a spirit of healthy rivalry, making it a memorable experience for all involved.

Credit:

27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ALDERSHOT

CO: Lt Col E Bowman • Adjt: Capt R Limbu • RSM: WO1 R Rourke

Following a successful return from support to Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER in Europe and regeneration activity at home, 27 Regiment RLC has continued to support Brigade, Divisional and Corps commitments which have also included the successful delivery of RLC Boxing Championships.

The last quarter has been busy with personnel deployed on Ex HYDRA ROCK (7 Squadron Exercise in Gibraltar), Ex CYPRIOT WOLF (91 Squadron led Adventure Training in Cyprus) and successful completion of the Board of Officers in preparation for the changeover of command with new Commanding Officer Lt Col E Bowman now in post. The Regt also saw Sgt Watson leading the Inspire and Thrive event in Bulford that targeted personal resilience and mental health awareness with the Regt heading to summer leave with the conclusion of the annual Lewis Memorial Trophy through Festival of Sports where 77 HQ Squadron was victorious.

The Regt’s focus continues to be on maintaining its current readiness commitments, and an enduring commitment to modernisation. Recent commitments have been a battlefield study to Monte Cassino under 19 Squadron (Ex CASSINO ROYALE); Regimental Collective Training (Ex WOLF OLYMPIAN – TL A-C); commitments to CERBERUS 24; and preparations for Regimental Level 3 Adventure Training to Nepal (Ex DHAULAGIRI YATRA) in November led by Cpl Thapa and Cpl Rana. The military skills teams have also been preparing for Ex NORTHERN STRIKE and Cambrian Patrol.

Ex HYDRA ROCK –

By Pte Hendrie, 7 F&GT Sqn

Between 7 and 21 Jul 24, service personnel from 7 Fuel and General Transport Squadron deployed on Ex HYDRA ROCK, an overseas deployment to Gibraltar. This challenging exercise exposed

soldiers of all ranks to an increasingly complex urban environment as well as introducing them to subterranean warfare. The intent was to build upon the solid foundations the Regt had built through its newly acquired Urban Ops Instructors and the ITR 10.4 package delivered previously in the year.

Ex HYDRA ROCK was split into three distinct phases, the first being a training phase, during which the soldiers were taught how to operate in an urban environment and were exposed to Gibraltar’s famous cave systems for the first time. Before the arrival of exercising troops, the training team had the opportunity to attend a train-thetrainer package led by the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, thus ensuring the material and techniques taught. The importance of adopting a ‘Silent, Violent, Silent’ approach was understood throughout as well as the need to operate effectively in both light and dark conditions. To set the conditions for success, NCOs led lessons on the vital kit and equipment that would enable activity in dark conditions. Refresher lessons on the proper use of HMNVS were conducted as well as introducing many junior soldiers to the Laser Light Module (LLM) - a battle winning asset in the caves.

After a week of training the soldiers were ready to deploy onto the second phase. The exercise phase tested all exercising troops in

both the urban and subterranean environments with serials designed to test both situational understanding and emotional intelligence. Throughout, a civilian population was ever present and added a new layer of pressure in which to test the exercising commanders and their commandand-control abilities. The two deployed platoons simultaneously occupied both the urban village and the over watching cave systems, securing their objectives, and moving into routine to provide a defence against enemy actions whilst awaiting further orders. In the urban village, the exercising troops were tasked with conducting raids and building clearances to deny the enemy freedom of movement and provide the local population security, whereas in the caves the troops conducted clearance patrols. The exercise phase concluded with a dawn company attack on the urban village witnessed by VIP guests from both 27 Regt RLC and 101 OSB. Exercising troops were then extracted from the exercise area using Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats provided by the Royal Navy.

The final phase of the exercise saw service personnel from 27 Regt RLC conduct a battlefield study, looking into the history of ‘The Rock’. Ex HYDRA ROCK was an amazing opportunity, enjoyed by all who attended.

8 Orders deep in the heart of ‘The Rock’

29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

SOUTH CERNEY

CO: Lt Col E Sedgwick • Adjt: Capt Z Marsden • RSM: WO1 C Corderoy

29 Regiment RLC has been busier than ever deploying full squadrons and high numbers of individual augmentees on operations around the world, while continuing to train and develop personnel on the home bank.

50 Movement Control SqnOp LINOTYPER

50 Sqn deployed on Op LINOTYPER to provide movement support for the US 1/1CD RiP between Esjberg, Denmark and Emden, Germany. After establishing HQ at Oksbøl Camp, the situation across Europe rapidly changed adding the task of supporting the deployment and recovery of 16 Air Assault Brigade and 12 Armoured Infantry Brigade. As a result, all the Sqn’s Movement Controllers and attached personnel were deployed across the Joint Operations Area on tasks ranging from working within a Brigade HQ setting, to leading small teams on the ground.

55 HQ Sqn - Op CROSSWAYS

55 Sqn saw some slightly more unique deployments such as LCpl Barlow’s deployment on Op CROSSWAYS, which focuses on maintaining short-range air defence for key infrastructure in Saudi Arabia. His role was to provide essential Postal and Courier Services to the 58 Battery, 12 Regiment Royal Artillery, stationed at FOB Oakes. This service is vital for supporting personnel in this isolated region by enabling sensitive documentation and materials to flow through FOB Oakes, helping to protect Saudi Arabia's energy infrastructure near Riyadh, a key element of the country's air defence strategy.

59 Movement Control Sqn –Ex SENIOR CENTURION

59 Sqn led the 29 Regt organised Ex SENIOR CENTURION, a twoday workshop aimed at all Senior NCOs and Warrant Officers within 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade

interested in pursuing an LE Commission. Nine Warrant Officers, both Class 1 and 2, from Staff or E2 roles, attended and contributed significant value to the event. The workshops included IRTB writing, planning exercises, interviews, and events representative of the SSEA. As is often the case, the real value for participants came from networking with other Warrant Officers also going through the process and current LE Officers at various stages of their career. A particular highlight was the voice of experience from Lt Col Levi Ashley MBE who generously shared an evening to provide a realistic overview of what to expect beyond the first Regimental Duty.

69 Movement Control Sqn - The Joint Air Mounting Centre (JAMC)

This year, 69 Sqn’s primary focus has shifted to ensuring the

8 Despite a massively busy schedule 29 Regt

seamless operation of the JAMC, Defence's central hub for coordinating all flights through RAF Brize Norton, providing essential support to Defence’s global force projection and often running 24hour C2 operations during major Defence movements. Despite this they still have soldiers deployed on Op INTERFLEX, ensuring the smooth operation of the Handling & Processing dept, reinforcing Defence’s main effort, and maintain a small presence on Op CABRIT.

80 Postal & Courier Sqn –Operations, training, and team building

80 Sqn currently boasts the largest operational commitment within 29 Regiment RLC, with 31 personnel deployed across 16 global locations. While most of these deployments focus on delivering postal and courier capabilities, soldiers are also supporting operations such as Op CABRIT, Op SHADER, Op INTERLINK, and Op KIPION. Officers from 80 Squadron have also been actively engaged, with one deployed on Op INTERFLEX and another involved in an Engage to Recruit campaign aimed at attracting the next generation of Officers and Soldiers to the Army.

raised a team who finished second in the ABF Dragon Boat race in September

8 Op LYNOTYPER saw 400 pieces of equipment moved back to the home bank

150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULL,

NEWCASTLE, HARTLEPOOL, LEEDS, BRADFORD, DONCASTER, LINCOLN

CO: Lt Col H McCullough • Adjt: Capt S Greaves • RSM: WO1 P Poole

Training Planning for the Brigade Annual Continuous Training (ACT) camp was at the forefront of 152 Regiment RLC’s activity over the summer months. The Regt deployed to Barry Buddon Training Camp and ably facilitated a threeweek programme with support from 159 Regt RLC that will, ultimately, contribute to the Army Reservists’ Certificate of Efficiency for the training year.

While there was a focus on ‘soldier first’ activities, every effort was made for those attending to gain career enhancing qualifications – such as DTTT and Bowman User –as well as affording the opportunity to explore the Cairngorms with an adventurous training package that included mountaineering, kayaking/canoeing and mountain biking. The ACT welcomed personnel from the Army Reserve and Regular Army with immediate feedback being overwhelmingly positive – perhaps helped by the unexpected sunshine and warmth! Closer to home, driver training was being conducted as an alternative ACT for those more junior members of the Regt looking to complete the B3 driver course.

Celebrating success

The Regt is proud of all the personnel serving within it; balancing the commitment of fulltime civilian employment and demanding high performance as an Army Reservist is no mean feat. Three members of the Regt have received His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Awards for their contribution to the Army Reserve. The following received notification of being recipients: Capt M Thompson (PSAO 217 (Leeds) Squadron), WO2 (SSM) K Petherbridge (SSM 218 (Hull) Squadron) and WO2 (SSM) P Elder (SSM 219 (Doncaster) Squadron. SSM Elder has also recently received the Special Recognition Award by the Doncaster Armed Forces Board.

Congratulations also to the Regt’s newest members, recently passing Phase 1 Training and to the three soldiers from the Regt who recently completed the LCpl ALDP (MT) course.

Community outreach

A great deal of effort is put in by the ROSO, Unit RRMT and ReMSOs – ably supported by sub-Unit personnel – to maintain a presence in our local communities. Their aim, while ultimately looking to recruit personnel into the Army Reserve, is to build bonds and working relationships with local services and organisations. Immediately after the summer leave period the Regt welcomed representatives from local authorities and industries for Ex ATALANTA EMBRACE, a female leadership and development event. The Regiment expresses its thanks to all the guest

8 The 150 Regt Bismarck Challenge team

speakers that supported this wellreceived programme. Most recently the Regt supported Ex MERLIN MANOEUVRE, providing transportrelated conundrums as part of a wider military skills competition aimed at the cadet movement.

Sports and Military Skills

The Regiment continues to see its personnel thrive in and out of barracks with representation in several sporting disciplines. LCpl Benson (160 Sqn) has recently returned from an Army Cricket Team sports tour in Rome and Sgt Moonesamy (218 Sqn) has represented the Corps and widerArmy in several fishing competitions. Meanwhile, a small team of participants took part in the Bismarck Challenge, a four-mile loaded march across Catterick Training Area run by 1(UK) Div.

Join Us

150 Regt has sub-Unit locations in Doncaster, Hull, Leeds, Lincoln and Tynemouth and is always looking to hear from those considering joining or transferring across from the Regular Army. To find out more about the Regiment and current availability scan the QR code.

8 ACT included kayaking/canoeing in the AT package

151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CROYDON

CO: Lt Col E Lewis • Adjt: WO1 (SSM) N Herbert • RSM: WO1 S Jaffa

151 Regiment RLC is just about to close another very busy year. The Regt will see a hand over of Commanding Officer, Adjutant and OC 508 (HQ) Sqn between late November and Christmas leave. This has already seen a flurry of additional year end activity ensuring all handovers are conducted efficiently.

The Lord Mayor's Show 151 Regt is tasked each year with the marshalling of all floats partaking in the Lord Mayor’s Show. The task is demanding from the outset commencing with a 0400 hrs start to ensure all squadrons are within the City of London before road closures are in place. The marshalling teams organise the formation of 141 floats within the procession ensuring they are in the correct order. A tricky task as each float arrives at different times and are made up of different vehicles from horse-drawn to large articulated vehicles. Once complete, the marshalling teams move along the closed route to the halfway point. Here they receive a further brief for the receipt of all floats in the procession at the lunch stop and the restart for the second half of the procession. Once the procession is restarted and all floats are underway, the marshalling teams are hosted in the Royal Courts of Justice.

Change of command

As the tenure of Lt Col ECC Lewis draws to a close it was fitting that the CO was dined out formally by both the Officers and Sergeants Messes during a training event held at the Soldier Academy, Grantham. As well as the COs dine out, the Regt said farewell to Lt Col S Stevenson, Maj M Debono-Evans and a fond farewell to WO2 (SSM) P Gibbs who finished his Colour Service in July and was invited back to be formally dined out amongst his peers. The final piece of this dinner night’s jigsaw was to formally dine in our new CO, Lt Col

A Balchin who assumes command on 1 Jan 25.

Lord-Lieutenant’s Award for 124 Sqn Driver

Cpl Martin of 124 Sqn was officially recognised for her dedication to the Army Reserve, receiving the Lord Lieutenant Certificate of Meritorious Service from the Lord Lieutenant of Kent at a ceremony in Brompton Barracks, Gillingham in November. The Lord Lieutenant's Certificate of Meritorious Service is an award that recognises exceptional service in the Reserve Forces and Cadet community. It is presented to service personnel that demonstrate outstanding leadership, commitment and

innovation. The award is one step below national honours and is a supplement to the New Year and Birthday Honours lists.

Cpl Martin received the award for a long and committed mobilisation at Lydd, Kent as a Driver in which she has performed selflessly in enabling vital training.

Remembrance Service at Pinewood Studios

Regt’s reservists work for an array of different companies. One such company is Pinewood Studios which the Army Film and Photographic Unit (AFPU) used as their base during WW2. Cpl Randall of 562 Sqn based at Southall works at the company’s Shepperton Studios. 562 Sqn visited Pinewood Studios to take part in a Remembrance Service where His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire attended as the guest of honour. With representatives from the RBL, RAF, Imperial War Museum and AFPU, Cpl Randall was the only serving reservist from the company to be present to pay her respects. Cpl Randall spoke with His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant about her trade within the studios and her Army Reserve trade. Two contrasting trades: Painter and Decorator to Tanker Driver.

8 151 Regt Float LMS 2024

8 HM LL of Kent Lady Colgrain and Cpl Martin

152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST

CO: Lt Col J Monument • Adjt: Capt S McIlveen • RSM: WO1 S Bowers

In July, 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC made an impressive showing at the RLC Festival of Sport, achieving second place in the highly competitive tug of war competition. Following this achievement, the Regt received an invitation to the prestigious Highland Games and adding to the success of the event, the 152 Regt Pipes and Drums played a significant role, providing musical support that enriched the event’s atmosphere. Their involvement also extended to the Colonel RLC’s cocktail party. This contribution reinforced the Regt’s position as a key part of the wider RLC community.

The month of August was a busy period for the Regt, starting with a well-attended ITR weekend. On the 18 Aug 24 the Regt hosted a successful families day in Palace Barracks, seamlessly ran by ROSO, Capt Byers. This event brought together personnel, their families, and the wider community for a day of fun and engagement. Highlights included the participation of the Police Service of Northern Ireland Interceptors, who demonstrated their capabilities, and the local fire service, which provided interactive displays for children. In addition to the various children’s activities, a raffle was held, which successfully raised significant funds for the MS Society, supporting a valuable

cause. The family’s day event proved to be an excellent opportunity to strengthen the ties between the Regt, its families, and the local community.

September saw significant change and operational activity, with four soldiers from the Regt deploying on Exercise AUSTERE WOLF, integrating within 66 Sqn of our sister Unit, 9 Regt RLC. There were also two key appointment handovers, with both CO and RSM changing hands. WO1(RSM) Macrae handed the mantle of RSM 152 Regt to WO1(RSM) Bowers in early September. 14 September then saw the dine out for Lt Col Clements from members of the Officers and SNCOs Mess before he handed over the key to the Regt to Lt Col

8 152 RLC and 66 Sqn personnel on Ex AW24

Monument whilst deployed on ACT. The soldiers and officers of 152 Regt thank both Lt Col Clements and WO1(RSM) Macrae for their efforts and achievements during their tenures and wish them the very best for the future.

The Regt’s Annual Continuous Training (ACT) exercise took place in Aldershot in October, with a focus on building operational capability. Over 100 soldiers from both the Regt and the Regular Army were trained in key competencies such as CST, UST and ADR. The Regt also provided essential support to Bovington during this period, supplying 7,000 litres of fuel to Challenger tanks. The ACT also included a visit by Comd 104 TS Bde and an employer’s visit, further enhancing relationships both within the Bde and the wider Northern Irish community.

In summary, the summer period was highly successful for 152 (North Irish) Regiment, marked by sporting achievements, operational deployments, training activities, and community engagement. The Regt continues to demonstrate its versatility, commitment, and professionalism across all areas of activity.

8 152 RLC Tug of War team

154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DUNFERMLINE

CO: Lt Col C O’Brien • Adjt: Capt N Fairclough

Another exciting period of training opportunities for 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC as the Regt continues to strive towards doubling its lethality by developing Driver SQEP, Fieldcraft skills on OTXs and the robustness and health of its personnel.

First and foremost, Maj Dunlop (OC 251 Sqn) led 24 personnel on Ex NORTHERN STRIKE, a multinational OTX in the USA. 527 Sqn OC, Maj Urquhart, has been preparing the British Army Motoring Association’s flagship event, Ex MUDMASTER 24, whilst delivering multiple cross-country driving exercises that test navigational skills. All the while, personnel have made excellent achievements that the Regt is proud of.

Ex NORTHERN STRIKE, Michigan, USA

In August, personnel deployed on Ex NORTHERN STRIKE for their Annual Continuous Training. The multi-national exercise was an excellent training opportunity to develop our lethality as a Logistic Regiment. 24 personnel from the Regt deployed alongside the US 515 Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB) National Guard and the 45th US Marine Combat Logistic Regiment. The three-phase exercise consisted of an RSOI package followed by two tactical moves that increased in intensity. The results were impressive and have left a lasting impression with our US counterparts.

The RSOI package involved

• RSM: WO1 D Knox

training on the US vehicles and weapons systems, which embedded our troops within our US counterparts and set the grounds for success. Thankfully, a comprehensive pre-deployment package in the UK included training on the US platforms, therefore allowing additional time to learn US doctrine and tactics in the field – a strong initiative and astute investment. The conditions were set for 154 Regt to impress its US counterparts during Phase two and three.

These lasted 10 days and provided the very best experience for the Officers and Soldiers whilst our US counterparts were being validated for overseas deployment. 154 Regt personnel deployed as a logistical unit (44 vehicles) onto the vast training area where they were immediately tested in tactical convoy moves, which culminated in the set-up of a very large tactical American Logistic HQ complex. The US injects varied from ambushes to IEDs and real-life tasks, with the added complexity of unmanned aerial surveillance and one-way attack drones. All the while, Sgt Nattres provided a memorable experience for his CMT team where their life-like medical scenarios included Aero-Med CASEVACs. The exercise was intense, but it provided a level of training that accurately replicated real life scenarios.

Training and development

The Regt continues to improve both core and soldiering skills via

training and development, such as driving courses, competitions and sports. Driver competencies continue to improve, along with Maj Urquhart’s enthusiasm toward BAMA. The Regimental Driving Team hosted Glasgow & Strathclyde UOTC’s CO and his team at Ex SCOTTISH ROVER. Land Rovers, old and new, took part in the trial at Charlestown Quarry with Pte Storm of 239 Sqn securing a hard-earned first place in the modern class level.

Highlights of the Unit’s sporting achievements are: SSgt Inlis, 221 Sqn, success at the BAMA Army Sports Car Racing where he is the Army’s third Top Championship Driver after winning 10 of 10 events at the championships. Capt K Wilson won the AGA Scotland Regional Championship in the individuals’ singles event. The achievements are remarkable, and personnel from across the Regt continue to develop strong teams where personnel’s robustness and skills are tested, such as Orienteering.

Last post

The Regt regrets to report the passing of two of its former officers: Maj Mike Young RCT/RLC (former Regt 2IC, OC 221 and OC 251 Sqn) and Maj DS (Dave) Smith RCT/RLC (former OC 230 Sqn and 527 Sqn). Our thoughts and sympathy are with their family and friends.

8 Members of 154 Regt embedded with US Allies on Ex NORTHERN STRIKE

8 Maj Urquhart achieves lift off in his classic Land Rover

156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps LIVERPOOL

CO: Lt Col A Tang • Adjt: Capt M Rodgers • RSM: WO1 K Hicks

156 Regiment RLC has had an exceptionally busy quarter, marked by a series of significant events and achievements. Highlights include the Annual Continuous Training Camp, increasing the Regt’s readiness, and a visit from GOC 3 UK Div; underscoring the Unit’s continued readiness progression and the importance of the Army Reserve within the war fighting division. The quarter also saw honours and award presentations by the DCOS 3 UK Div, recognising regimental personnel’s hard work and dedication. Remembrance activities provided a poignant moment to reflect on past sacrifices, while adventure training (AT) further strengthened the team’s cohesion and readiness for future challenges.

Remembrance

Remembrance Parades in Liverpool and its surrounding areas, marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and the Battle of Arnhem, saw 156 Regt Soldiers and Officers proudly support these events. The RSM (WO1 Hicks) who as Garrison Sergeant Major led a procession with a marching contingent in excess of 1,000 personnel; both veterans and serving soldiers. 156 Regt’s participation in all the events honoured the courageous efforts of soldiers who fought in those pivotal World War II campaigns, and all conflicts since. The CO (Lt Col Tang) had the privilege of being interviewed by the BBC highlighting the impact of

conflict on service personnel and their families.

Honours and awards

The Regt presented over 15 honours and awards this quarter, recognising exceptional service and commitment. Of note amongst the accolades was the prestigious Lord Lieutenant Award for services to the Army Reserve, presented to 234 Squadron 2IC Capt Davies. This award highlights the dedication of individuals to their community and the Reserve Forces. Additionally, recipients were honoured with the Volunteer Reserve Service Medal, Long Service and Good Conduct medals, and the MacRobert Award. These accomplishments were presented by Col Brown DCOS 3 UK Div, and celebrate the outstanding contributions made by members of the Regt.

Annual Continuous Training (ACT)

This year 156 Regt conducted comprehensive combat estimate training with its partnered regiments. The training was delivered and co-ordinated by 101

8 Sub-units from across 156 RLC supported remembrance events

OS Bde, and focused on refining operational planning process. This training included joint sessions where the Regt worked closely with brigade staff and partner regimental staff to develop effective plans and assess various scenarios. Simultaneously, the Sub-units engaged in field exercises partnered with 10QOGLR, providing hands-on experience in LSS and catering serials. These exercises helped reinforce tactical proficiency, and interoperability, ensuring that the Regt is fully prepared for real world operational challenges. During the ACT, GOC 3 UK Div visited to observe the ongoing training and engage with participants, providing guidance and feedback, emphasising the importance of effective coordination and the integration of Army Reserve Units.

Adventurous Training

This quarter’s regimental AT package saw the Regt deploy to Wales. Soldiers and Officers from the Regt participated in hill walking, kayaking and mountain biking offering valuable challenges and team building opportunities. The Welsh mountains provided a rugged terrain for the AT packages, testing navigation, endurance, and team cohesion. Overall, a very successful AT event fostering teamwork and cohesion in difficult settings.

8 The Welsh mountains provided the ideal setting for 156 Regt’s AT package

157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps CARDIFF

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

A jam-packed AT filled summer has drawn to a close with the autumn containing a busy schedule of exercises and individual courses. From North Wales to Kenya and Pembroke to Germany, 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC’s footprint has certainly been more than just Wales this year. Looking forward, the 157 Regt team has plenty going on. To name a few, an eager team is chomping at the bit to get out skiing on Ex ALPINE KNEES BEND in Norway and preparing for the annual Christmas exercise - WINTER DRAGON - is well underway. This will see the soldiers and officers go back to basics and test those important low-level skills and drills.

Ex COMMAND DRAGON

This year’s Annual Continuous Training (ACT) was predominantly trade based and offered a perfect opportunity to ensure the troops are well qualified to perform their operational role. This included numerous courses involving the Defence Train The Trainer course, EPLS familiarisation, Cat C licences and even a few new recruits obtained their Cat B driving license. The troops were extremely grateful for the opportunity to be gaining these qualifications in their Army Reserve time. Committed and enthused, the Regt will strive to ensure its troops are given the

opportunity to excel in their trades. The officers and seniors were also put through their paces. The Regimental Headquarters simulated a command post and was locked into several planning cycles throughout the two weeks, tested on all logistic eventualities with some very long days and a few weary eyes by the end.

Nevertheless, the exercise was a standout success and a rare but important opportunity for the

command team to be stretched to their limits.

Finally, the culmination of Ex DRAGON COMMAND was just the start for a few of the command team, who were quickly whisked off to Sennelager in Germany as part of a planning cell for 3 UK Div’s exercise, Ex CERBERUS.

Undeterred by 12-hour shifts and room for very little sleep, the four who flew out did the unit proud and have earned a well deserved few days off on return. By Sgt Liam Kelly (249 Sqn)

Ex TORNADO DRAGON

20 lucky soldiers got the opportunity to travel to Spain for this year’s adventurous training (AT). The exercise consisted of a multi AT package including Mountain Biking, Rock Climbing and Mountaineering/Hillwalking in the iconic setting of Picos De Europa.

The beautiful scenery and warm weather were perfect for the troops to take to the mountains. Maj Evans (exercise lead) was pleased to see the level of commitment the 157 Regt soldiers were putting into the packages; noting a few were ready to face their fear of heights and really get into the spirit of testing limits on AT. Furthermore, he went on to state: “It’s inherently important to keep AT afloat in the Army Reserves. These opportunities are becoming ever more difficult as the Army becomes busier and more committed to overseas exercises and operations. Notably there are a few soldiers here on AT that have never been abroad before, only just obtained their first passport and let alone been offered the chance to gain some valuable life skills and experiences they won’t forget.”

The Regt hopes to get out there again next year and maybe even throw a Ski Exped in March too. As always 157 Regt works hard and plays hard.

8 A few of the troops proudly flying the Regimental flag before they go on to summit

LCpl Davidson-Hall showing off her culinary skills

158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps PETERBOROUGH

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

158 Regiment RLC was fortunate enough to field a number of teams for the inaugural RLC Festival of Sport in July. Sending teams consisting of both Reservists and Permanent Staff, they competed in events including the tug of war and netball. A very successful event for not only the Regt but the wider Corps, and one we look forward to taking part in again next year.

Before moving into the summer leave period, the Regt conducted some Continuous Professional Development (CPD) activity in York, working from HQ 1(UK)Div. After a busy year so far, this was a great opportunity to not only get some quality CPD in but to move into the summer on a high from a more relaxed, social setting. Since the Regt’s re-roll to an aviation support regiment, the focus has been squarely on driving and supplying, aiming to hit FOC against this commitment in 2026, so a weekend of CPD was a welcome change of pace for the officers and soldiers involved.

With recruitment being high on the priority list, both recruitment and engagement activities continued throughout this period, with attendance at events such as the Bedford River Festival, the Military Show Suffolk and Op MARKET HARBOROUGH. Primarily led by the Regt’s team of ReMSOs,

Service Personnel would attend these events to not only show presence in the community and remind everyone that the Army Reserve exists, but to attract new officers and soldiers.

Moving into September, alongside other teams from across the Division, the Regt sent a team and two individuals on the BISMARCK CHALLENGE, completing the four miles across the Catterick training area. This was a great day out to not only complete some physical training, but to meet other units from across the Division and hear firsthand from the GOC his vision and thoughts on readiness and lethality.

As with many Units over this

8 Members of the Regt conducted CPD in York

period, the Regt also collected its King’s Coronation Medals, with some Sqns conducting their medals parades or planning these over the coming months. 201 Sqn, based in Bedford and Luton, invited the Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire to their ARC, with the Commanding Officer attending 202 Sqn in Ipswich to hand out theirs. Both fantastic parades full of incredibly proud officers and soldiers, with some also receiving promotions and Queen’s Platinum Jubilee medals. October will see a re-focus back onto core RLC skills with Ex STEELBACK 05. Soldiers will deploy out to the Aldershot training area to conduct some cross-country driving and getting back into the field, as well as providing support to Ex CERBERUS, deploying an officer with 7 Bn REME within 1 Avn BCT.

Look forward

Remembrance in clearly on the horizon with multiple events taking place across the Sqn locations from Ipswich to Milton Keynes. Whilst preparations for this continue, teams from the Regt will also deploy on Ex NORTHERN STRIKE which should stand them in great stead for completing the CO’s Challenge in December before Christmas stand down.

8 The CO presenting King’s Coronation Medals to 202 Sqn

159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps COVENTRY,

TELFORD,

WEST

BROMWICH, STOKE, BURTON, LOUGHBOROUGH

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

This period saw the regimental focus turn to individual development delivered through a joint Annual Continuous Training (ACT) camp, trade and military skills courses plus an excellent battlefield study to the Balkans. Additionally, personnel have been busy undertaking engagement and recruitment training and delivering events across the AOR.

ACT - Barry Buddon and Grantham

In Scotland team medic, Bowman and driving courses ran alongside ranges and AT with the Regt taking full advantage of the fantastic scenery and unexpected weather. As a separate package the Officers and SNCOs undertook a study package focussing on logistics planning, capability and operational delivery. Bringing this to life included a visit to an ES Bn and a regimental Staff Ride which studied the First Scottish War of Independence and the associated logistical supply chains required for such a prolonged war. Visit locations included Stirling Bridge, Bannockburn and Stirling Castle, the site of numerous sieges. The current incumbents were much friendlier than days gone by, even allowing the 159 Regt flag to fly over the battlements. Finishing with a slight physical challenge the team ‘summited’ the Wallace memorial to view the battlefields from a 360° perspective.

In Grantham training focussed on JNCO’s leadership and enabling capability through the delivery of distributed ALDP and M Qual courses. The courses comprised of a composite, multi cap badge, group of regular and reserves soldiers who complemented each other and increased the benefits of the course. The field exercise was delivered at Leek Training Area which provided the right environment and weather to test personal skills and ability. Students grew confidence in their own ability to operate under adverse conditions.

Building directly on the experience from the field exercise phase, several of the students progressed on to the M Qual qualification. This knowledge combined with skills of safety management enables students to take responsibility for future training delivery. With a 96% pass rate on the LCpl ALDP and 92% on the M Qual cadre, it was highly successful.

Ex BARBARIAN BALKAN

During October 159 Regt led a battlefield study of the Balkans deploying 30 personnel from across 102 Operational Support Brigade.

The study looked at key events during the conflicts of the 1990s. Visit locations included, Sarajevo, Srebrenica, the site of a brutal genocide massacre, Gorazde’ where British troops were based and Mostar, a symbolic and strategically important city.

As well as visiting key sites and locations within Bosnia the group also met the Prime Minister of Gorazde, an elected mayor called Edin Cullov. Highlights of the visit were visiting the 1984 winter Olympics’ bob sleigh track and learning about the Tunnel of Hope which helped to supply the besieged city of Sarajevo from 1992-95.

Although we enjoyed the study there were difficult moments too, like the visit to the memorial at Srebrenica which was the site of ethnic cleansing in July 1995. Around 8,000 men and boys over the age of 14 were killed by Serb forces. The area had been designated a UN safe zone but due to the withdrawal of the UN troops the civilian population were unprotected. Pictures and stories from those who survived tell of the utter misery endured during this time of war. During the visit to Gorazde we held a small remembrance service at the site of the new memorial, which is designated to British servicemen killed during the conflict.

8 Views from the Wallace Memorial

8 The war memorial in Sarajevo

162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM

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

Ex AUSTERE WOLF (Op CHELONIA)

In September, Capt Ian Robinson deployed as the Battle Captain in the TEG HQ on Ex AUSTERE WOLF. He says: “After weeks of preparation, I finally arrived at Stansted airport with black grip in tow. Looking out for other people with the same ubiquitous bag, I located the team from HICON. With the addition of a team of Gurkha Signallers we boarded our flight to Bari in Southern Italy. Arriving at the Italian Army Logistics Base, we quickly set about turning the office space to the rear of a rather noisy Italian coffee shop, into a HICON Ops room. The G6 attachment from 247 Sig Sqn quickly established comms with the team in Albania using Starlink. We were ready for the fight.

With a real life NO FAIL mission to receive and land the UK’s Strategic Reserve Force (SRF) led by 1 RYORKS (Op CHELONIA) alongside the exercise, there was no time to ease in gradually, with movers stood to at the APoD in Tirana ready to receive PAX flights. Due to orders received from higher for a redeployment of a critical element of the TASK ORG the decision was made to relocate the RORO. This highlighted the adaptability of the TEG and the Port Task Group who had to relocate and establish in hours few, ready to receive the SRF. With the impact of other global operations and a re-balancing of the Regular FEs, Army Reserve SMEs were thrust into the limelight, to ensure the delivery of key capabilities was not lost.

Ex AUSTERE WOLF provided a unique training opportunity for the TEG. Exercising ship to shore operations in an austere environment, combined with challenging communication limitations and the constant requirement to maintain a secure location that emphasised the importance of Soldier First principles.”

Ex CENTURION FREEFALL

Plummeting to the ground at 120 miles an hour isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, but when she was offered a place on 29 Regt’s trip to Cyprus to do just that to gain significant AT qualifications, Pte Melissa Murphy (282 Sqn) seized the opportunity.

Pte Murphy joined the group of budding skydivers from 29 Regt, with a few additions from 4 PARA, to undertake Accelerated Free Fall training under Parachute Lead Instructor Capt Amii Calway (279 Sqn).

There were a few tumbles and spins along the way, that Pte Murphy overcame to complete 26 jumps. By the end of the expedition, she was merrily launching herself, unassisted, from the Cessna 208 Caravan 13,000ft above Dhekelia! Get in touch with Capt Calway, OC RLC Sport Parachuting

8 Pte Singh Saini with others wearing the 1897 uniform of the 36th Sikh Regt

Association, on MODNet if you’d like to know any more about skydiving, including how to get involved or learn for yourself.

The Battle of Saragarhi remembered Pte Maninderpal Singh Saini of 281 Sqn, attended the commemoration for the Battle of Saragarhi, held in Wolverhampton on 8 Sep 24.

“The Defence Sikh Network were seeking volunteers to take part in the parade to honour the 21 Sikhs that lost their lives,” he says. “Little did I know, the impact and how deep the respect for our fallen comrades went through the community and Defence. Leading up to the event more information was shared, and I will not be ashamed to admit that I too learnt even more about the 21 Sikhs from the 36th Sikh Regiment who on 12 Sep 1897, faced 10,000 Afghans.

“On the day I felt pride, and a sense of honour. When the war cry of “Bole So Nihal”, meaning “Whosoever utters this, shall be exalted. True is the Great God”, I felt so proud to be representing and remembering the sacrifice of the 21 Sikhs, honouring their sacrifice whilst wearing their uniform in public. The sense of unison and pride from all those attending was incredible.”

8 Pte Murphy exiting at 13,000ft

165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC

PLYMOUTH

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

The last quarter has seen 165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC personnel deploy on an array of deployments and exercises alongside conducting community engagement and adventurous training events.

142 (VS) Squadron – The Sqn deployed to Monchengladbach for its ACT, working and supporting Support Equipment Fleet (Germany) in the movements and maintenance in a variety of B vehicles, conducting battery management system support and additional training on multiple vehicle variants.

This invaluable training has allowed 80% of the Sqn to remain competent in their qualifications further allowing the sub-unit to remain ready in support vehicle support tasks and supporting our regular peers.

Ex AUSTERE WOLF - September saw the Regt deploy a Troop consisting of Mariners, Marine Engineers, Port Operators and Operational Hygiene Specialists to Albania supporting and working alongside our regular counterparts from 17 Port & Maritime Regiment and across 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade. Personnel conduct ship to shore logistics in austere conditions and exercised their skills on a variety of vessel platforms.

Support to Media and Engagement - Throughout the summer and early autumn, the Regt has been involved in a variety of regional and national media projects; most notably members of the Regt have been involved with Army Media’s reserve recruitment campaign highlighting the ability of managing both a civilian and military career. Additionally, Two Troop Commanders have featured on separate national podcasts focusing on time management and dual career fulfilment.

Sport and adventure trainingOn the sporting front, regimental personnel have been equally busy. In August, Cpl Tatman competed in

the Armed Forces Strongman competition placing second overall. To achieve this, he lifted 90kg Atlas stones, 100kg overheads and a 200kg deadlift 15 times.

Additionally, Majors Clarke and Gilbert competed in the six-day international festival of orienteering; a valuable training opportunity which tested the pair

across a variety of terrain coupled with technical orienteering. Maj Clarke came second in her age category whilst Maj Gilbert came fourth. Meanwhile, Capt Holmes competed in the Army Beach Angling Championships where he was selected to represent the UK Armed Forces team where he will compete against the UK Police team later in the year.

The Regt took the opportunity to enjoy the conclusion of Cornish summertime by conducting an adventure training weekend across the county which included hill walking, mountain biking and fitting to our Cornish roots, surfing.

A look forward - The Regt is greatly looking forward to the activity that lies ahead in the winter months. We will see many personnel awarded for their hard work throughout 2024 at the varying Lord Lieutenant’s awards, whilst also focusing on both the Alpine and Nordic ski seasons which so many RLC units will compete in.

8 Cpl Stockbridge conducting his Maritime Log during Ex AUSTERE WOLF

8 Capt Holmes competing in the Army Angling Beach Championships

167 Catering Support Regiment RLC GRANTHAM

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

Exercise Forces Manor

During 167 Regiment RLC’s annual camp to Scotland the unit provided catering support to the opening of the Veterans’ Lounge at Forces Manor in the Highlands.

Forces Manor is described by Tony Brown as a home for all. Tony, a former soldier in the Royal Corps of Transport and the founder of Forces Manor, served in the British Army after starting out as a cadet. The Army gave Tony a home, and now he is giving one back. Tony didn't have the best start in life, but as a result of the children's care system he survived and went on to become a proud British soldier.

Tony served in various locations around the world and, at one point, was the youngest tank transport specialist in the British Army. Serving in the military gave him a home and a grounding, and the values he learned in the Army are those he applies to Forces Manor today.

Forces Manor is a not-for-profit making organisation, which provides accommodation to serving members of all branches of the British Forces, veterans, and their families at incredible value. It provides a high level of comfort in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Award-winning accommodation and facilities are available all year round in the magnificent

Cairngorms National Park. In its first year Forces Manor won a bronze award in the Scottish Veterans Awards and a bronze accreditation from the Armed Forces Covenant.

Forces Manor is run as a selfreliant hotel, encouraging guests to immerse themselves in the experience, particularly with its veteran community, to relive the value of reconnecting with likeminded military and veteran personnel. Forces Manor doesn’t have labels, but it is a place that aims to help the welfare of all guests by providing an environment that is both welcoming and relaxing.

The opening of the Veterans’ Lounge was a milestone, and it was an honour for the Regt to support such an event. The guest

list comprised of many serving personnel from the Army, Navy, and RAF units based in Scotland, veterans, and local charities and businesses. The RLC had a fantastic turnout to support the event with the Deputy Colonel RLC, Col Stone, WO1 Blackburn RLC RHQ, Commanding Officer 167 Regt, Lt Col Rathbone, Maj Bastin Regt 2IC, RSM WO1 Allison and OC 111 Sqn Maj Foster.

As part of 111 Sqn’s chefs annual training they were tasked with preparing the food for 70 guests, working under canvas on a wet and windy hill in the Highlands with the midges biting, they demonstrated their skills and ability to cook in any location and environment. On the day, WO1 Whitby, SSgt Holgate and Cpl Morton delivered the BBQ buffet to a very high standard, showcasing what 167 Regt can deliver. There was high praise from the guests, and many of the veterans, some being ex-RLC, thrived on meeting and talking with those still serving. It was an overall success and excellent opportunity for the Regt to continue its training whilst supporting such a worthwhile organisation.

8 The RSM, Col Stone, the OC 111 Sqn and CO 167 Regt with Tony Brown, the founder of Forces Manor

8 WO1 Whitby, SSgt Holgate, Cpl Morton and Maj Foster and the BBQ buffet table

20 Transport Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps LONDON

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

20 Transport Squadron RLC

continues to provide intimate logistical support to HQ London District, the Royal Household, MOD Main Building, and all London-based units. The unit primarily operates from Regent’s Park Barracks with a detached Troop permanently based within MOD, Whitehall.

Recent events include transport planning, coordination, and execution for the State Opening of Parliament in 2024 following the change of government. This has resulted in a transition of new Defence Ministers into MOD Main Building.

Under new management

20 Tpt Sqn has recently undergone a change of management. Maj Zoe Lester-Morris has taken over as Officer Commanding. Alongside the new OC is also a new command team in the shape of:

• Capt Richard Ockwell as Sqn 2iC

• Capt Charlie McAllister as OpsO

• WO2 Sophie Hardman as SSM

Adventurous training (AT) –Ex COCKNEY CHALLENGE 24

For the second consecutive year, 20 Tpt Sqn has deployed as a unit to Cyprus for a two-week AT package. Ex Cockney Challenge 24 was administered in Episkopi Garrison where participants experienced mountain biking and hill walking in a hot climate.

Supplemented by various cultural and site visits including Ledra Crossing in the heart of Nicosia and the UN HQ, the exercising troops conducted a study into the role of the UN and British Deployed Troops. Building upon the successes of Ex Cockney Challenge 23, 20 Tpt Sqn hosted staff from HQ London District and the Army Engagement Team to allow inter unit cohesion.

Army recruitment campaign

In support of the Army’s latest recruiting campaign, several coaches have been earmarked to

receive a new look, advertising Army recruitment in and around the Capital City. So far, the unit has received two Army recruiting coaches from the supplier with more to come. Feedback during the Army Expo 24 was very positive about this clever use of our vehicle fleet.

Celebrating cultural diversity

20 Tpt Sqn was hosted by other units within Regent's Park Barracks for a first-rate cultural day. A variety of food stalls from around the world were representative of the many cultures and faiths present in Regent's Park. Service Personnel and Civil Servants came together as the Regent's Park Barracks family to celebrate diversity with music and activities.

General Election and the State Opening of Parliament –

By Mr Daniel Maynard

I have been working as a civilian administrator with A Troop 20 Tpt Sqn at the MOD for over a year. In July, my colleague and I were busy with the general election and the state opening of parliament. To be prepared, I had four standby drivers during the first ten days. Our drivers needed to recce the ministers’ new routes, and a fresh set of ministerial staff meant I needed to educate

them on our policies and resources. Through my preparations, A Troop fulfilled all the tasks required by the ministers as well as our regular obligations with MOD Main Building. We arranged things on election day so that every driver and our office had a chance to vote. Only eleven days later we had the next challenge of the state opening of parliament. On that day we had four 3* officers, a 4* Admiral and a Minister that needed transport with only four drivers available. I am proud of my efforts being in the centre of the action ensuring that transport was properly laid on during these major political events in the UK.

8 20 Sqn at Nicosia Airport

8 Maj Lester-Morris

Cyprus Operations Support Unit

JOINT LOGISTIC SQUADRON

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

Ammunition Troop

Ammunition Troop is a key part within Cyprus Operations Support Unit (COSU), providing bespoke ammunition supply and support for a diverse range of exercises and operations. The troop ensures that security of British Forces Cyprus is maintained, providing a 24/7 Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) capability, working closely with the RAF for Aircraft Post Crash Management training, and utilising them for an EOD training serial via helicopter insertion in the Troodos Mountains.

Summer 24 was an incredibly busy period for Ammo Troop, supporting contingent operations such as Op ARENGA, fulfilling our role as the primary global hub for operations in the Middle East. In addition, the troop hosted Ex HADES BIDENT in November this year, a key Defence engagement and training serial in the BFC calendar which brings together expertise from around Cyprus and the UK, such as the Cypriot National Guard, Cyprus Police and UK EOD and search assets.

Joint Movements Squadron –Movement Support Troop (MST)

Summer 24 has been an incredibly gratifying period for MST. The team has coordinated movement activities in support of operations and exercises, whilst finding time to enjoy the adventures the island has to offer. Efforts have been aligned to supporting Op HALIFAX, ARENGA, and TOSCA 40/41, all of which required seamless logistical support in challenging environments. Op HALIFAX saw the teams process 31 ISO Containers, conduct air freight MCCPs and allocate passengers to aircraft within a tight seven-day period. We bid farewell to 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment and welcomed 1st Battalion The Princess of Wales Royal Regiment onto the island. Mov support to Op TOSCA assisted 4 Para changing with 26 Regt RA, during which 240

PAX and 2,000kgs of freight were processed. The MST team was bolstered in numbers by a small detachment of Movement Controllers from 29 Regt RLC; allowing for invaluable operational experience and development opportunities. Whilst deployed, 29 Regt RLC personnel were able to partake in summer AT and get a real feel for island life.

With Op ARENGA coming into full force, MST facilitated redeployment movement tasks for the initial deployment at short notice. The reverse supply chain is where MST really shine, all personnel and equipment that were aligned to Op ARENGA will be recovered to respective unit lines and deployed onto subsequent high tempo taskings. Logistically this is a huge feat, involving interoperability between Standing Joint Force HQ J4, 104 Log Bde Theatre Enabling Group and various external deployed movements agencies.

In addition to the support MST provides to Ops and Ex activity, the team (inc ATLO support) have

manged to enjoy the delights that a posting/deployment Cyprus brings. Pte Kat Rollison, ATLO, exploited opportunities enabling her to reach excelled heights through competing a parachute jumps course. LCpl Elizabeth Ellis was the MST team lead for the British Forces Cyprus Bay-to-Bay 24 swimming race, seeing five troop members swim one nautical mile in open waters. Demonstrating true leadership SSgt Handley threw himself into completing the Gym-to-Gym marathon and 457 Remembrance march, two extremely challenging events.

Looking outside trade outputs and sporting endeavours, MST has also expanded its reach into UKStratCom and logistics within industry. A/Sgt Sergie Williams is now the official reverse mentor to the UKStratCom Comd SM, WO Sara Catterall RAF, assisting in our higher command making the right decisions within Defence. LCpl Derrick Adu Sarfo has been projecting his unique experiences within the Logistics and Supply Chain industry, working with Generation Logistics as an ambassador.

A prosperous period, MST is looking forward to new challenges on the horizon and welcoming Sgt Dale Johnstone from 29 Regt RLC after his well-deserved promotion to Sergeant.

8 Air insertion for EOD training in the Troodos mountains. Image credit BFBS

8 Ammunition Troop conducting demolitions near Akrotiri

44 Support Squadron Royal Military Academy SANDHURST

OC: Maj Z Zmitrowicz • TCWO: WO1 L Brier

44 Support Squadron RLC is an integral part of the station support unit, providing efficient transport, essential support and tactical communication assistance to British Army officer training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. The Sqn is a dynamic and active unit, offering numerous opportunities for career development in a challenging yet rewarding environment.

Army officer training culminates in Ex DYNAMIC VICTORY, a twoweek exercise in Germany that represents the pinnacle of the Sqn’s support profile. As a support squadron, the unit plays a critical role in this exercise, benefiting from international training opportunities. This transcontinental development allows RLC drivers and the chain of command to hone their operational skills through multi-day driving missions, ensuring compliance with customs regulations while experiencing French, German and American hospitality.

In the past three months alone, the Sqn has covered an astounding

187,000 miles, a testament to its tireless commitment and dedication to the mission. This remarkable achievement has translated into over 4,000 crucial transport operations, ensuring the seamless flow of essential resources, and underscoring its pivotal role in maintaining operational effectiveness.

AT in Bavaria

By Sgt Relf, D Troop Admin Sgt

In the heart of Europe, a team embarked on an extraordinary week of adventurous training in Bavaria, a region renowned for its stunning alpine landscapes, crystalclear lakes, and endless outdoor adventure opportunities. The team comprised of individuals from various ranks and backgrounds united for a shared purpose: to challenge their limits through cycling, mountain climbing and kayaking, all while fostering team spirit, resilience and leadership.

The purpose of this adventurous training is to push participants physically, mentally, and emotionally, creating scenarios where they must adapt, communicate, and rely on their teammates. The Bavarian countryside, with its diverse landscapes, provided the perfect setting to test these skills. This training is not just about adventure

but also about building trust, leadership, and endurance under challenging conditions.

Military Skills

44 Sqn trained hard for Ex NORTHERN STRIKE, the RLC Military Skills Competition. The preparation focused on key areas such as shooting, fitness, Battlefield Casualty Drills (BCD), RLC history and more. This training allowed the team to step beyond their daily tasks and engage in vital military skills, enhancing both their military knowledge and teamwork. We look forward to providing an update on how well the team did in the next edition.

The 44 Sqn Mil Skills team

8 Bavaria offers great mountaineering opportunities

Taking five in the stunning landscape

Army Foundation College Harrogate

By Maj Mark Conlin, Officer Commanding Waterloo Company

The Army Foundation College in Harrogate is the only Phase 1 Training Unit that trains from age 16. There are five Training Companies that are modelled on classic infantry companies, albeit swollen in size (there are typically 5-7 Platoons in a Company, to total up to 300 including Permanent Staff (PS)).

The Junior Soldiers (JS) undergo military Phase 1 training, education and functional skills and outwardbound activities such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award and battlefield studies etc. There is a 49-week long course and a 24-week short course; the former aimed more at ‘teeth arms’ and RLC Drivers, with the latter focussing on JS going to more technical streams.

Visit of RHQ The RLC

The RLC has a surprisingly large footprint at AFC (H), currently with 36 members of PS. The Training Coys hold posts from Sect Comd to Coy Comd. There is a RLC Regimental Catering Warrant Officer (RCWO), and the present RCMO and Contracts Management Officer are also RLC (E2 and FTRS respectively).

On 16 Oct 24, the Colonel RLC, COS and Corps Engagement Team RSM visited the AFC to meet the team and to discuss some key issues. The Corps HQ team met the Regt HQ, including the Commanding Officer, Lt Col Mike Butler ETS, and the senior figures of the Pearson TQ education team. Pearson also assists with RLC apprenticeships and supports RLC Connect.

Col Powell and her team then met

some RLC-aligned JS before fielding Q&A from the RLC PS at a fireside chat in the Sgts’ Mess. There was a good discussion with RLC staff, some of whom had concerns about the impact of a Trg Regt assignment on their MS and trade profile.

The HQ team reiterated that PS are selected into assignments to Training Units. Training and mentoring the Army’s most impressionable and vulnerable cohort develops several key areas of expertise. This includes military skills and personnel management, but also greater exposure to complex and sensitive G1. These skills are of huge value to us as individuals and to our careers as we move back into Fd Army Units. There is no penalty for working ‘out of trade’ and The RLC desk at APC recognises the contribution made in support of the Corps.

Arms and Services Day

The Recruitment Allocation Programme (RAP) assigns each JS to a cap badge and a Career Employment Group (CEG). TY24/25

8 11 EOD 17 P&M and 47 AD presented their specialisms

has 80 entries for The RLC, spread over 10 different CEGs.

The Aug 2024 intake is the first under a new scheme of agnostic loading that makes it much easier for JS to change their cap badge. There’s a larger dropout rate here than in other ATRs, since U-18 JS can request Discharge as of Right (DAOR) at any time. With a start state of ~1,200, that means up to 300 roles will go unfilled.

There’s no policy of proportional representation across the remaining ~900, so it’s imperative for all cap badges to make their allocated JS feel welcomed and part of the team. RHQ The RLC and its Nurture Team supports our plan to reach out to our JS throughout training, from handing out RLCbranded items, to look-at-life days at nearby Units. The Arms and Services Day (think small version of Ex LOG SAFARI) runs twice per year at the College and offers us the chance to show all JS the opportunities available to them through a career in our Corps.

October’s event saw an eyecatching display to showcase specialist trades from 11 EOD Regt, 47 AD Sqn and 17 P&M Regt, with Dvr, Dvr Comms Spec and LSS trades demonstrated courtesy of the RLC team at 1 CS Bn REME.

8 Corps HQ speaking with some of the RLC Permanent Staff cohort

RLC Cycling

Ex NORTH COAST 500

In October 2023, the RLC Road Cycling Committee began organising a challenging expedition to tackle the Scottish North Coast 500; a new route to RLC personnel. After eight months of intense planning, training, and logistics, on 1 Jun 24, 13 Service Personnel (SP) embarked on the 500-mile journey around the Scottish Highlands. The expedition’s primary goal was to foster leadership at all levels. Each day, a different team member took charge, overseeing route planning and bike maintenance. The group set off from Inverness, following the anticlockwise route, which pushed their mental and physical limits. The ride offered stunning views, but also presented challenges with its steep hills and long daily distances. Working together in a peloton, the group overcame harsh weather, and most challenging, the ascent of Bealach na Ba, the UK’s highest paved road, rising 650 metres at the end of a gruelling 130km day. Everyone conquered the climb, boosting morale for the remaining days. The expedition passed quickly, aided by, well-timed support van stops, and the team’s camaraderie. After reaching the west coast, they headed for John O’Groats, pushing through the final days and finishing ahead of schedule in Inverness. The team completed the 500 miles, climbing over 10,000 metres in six days. This was a remarkable achievement that tested even the hardiest cyclists.

Morzine Overseas Tour

In July 2024, following a successful road and e-racing season, the RLC Road Cycling Team headed to Morzine in the French Alps. This week-long training camp covered 550km of cycling with 7,500 metres of climbing. The team tackled famous Tour de France routes, including the Col de Joux Plane, Col de Corbier, Col d’Avoriaz, and Col de L’Ecrenaz. The Alps’ dramatic landscapes and technical descents provided a once-in-a-lifetime cycling experience.

Staying in the luxury Chalet

Hugo, the team was wellsupported throughout the trip. The highlight of the tour was a 200km ride around Lake Geneva, offering spectacular scenery and excellent cycling infrastructure. The week not only enhanced the team's fitness but also solidified friendships.

1,900km Gurkha Welfare Trust Charity Ride

Lt Will Kriehn of 10 QOGLR undertook an incredible 1,900km ride across Europe to raise funds for the Gurkha Welfare Trust, completing this challenge shortly after the Morzine tour. Over 16 days, Lt Kriehn cycled through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and Switzerland, raising nearly £4,000 with Gift Aid. Averaging 120km a day, his journey concluded in Paris, just in time to witness the 2024 Olympics.

Mountain Biking: Cross-Country and Enduro

The RLC’s mountain biking team has also seen success in 2024. The Army Inter Corps Enduro Race Series has been well-attended by RLC riders, with the team securing first place. Sgt Ross Clark and Cpl

Tess Moloney have been selected to represent the Army Enduro Team. New riders are always welcome, with the next selection day scheduled for March 2025 during Ex LOG RIDE 25. Additionally, the Cross-Country (XC) team has excelled in the ACMTBXC Series 2024, with WO1 Gaz Way taking first place in his category.

E-Racing

E-racing has grown in popularity since COVID-19, with The RLC leading the way. The team consistently podiums in competitions, with riders across all five ability categories. The RLC e-racing team comprises around 70 cyclists from different backgrounds, including Regulars, Reserves, and Veterans and all ages. Competitions span a range of formats, from short back-to-back races to individual time trials. The team has its own distinctive kit in blue and yellow, promoting a sense of identity and teamwork during races. As the colder months approach, e-racing is a great way to stay fit indoors.

If you are interested in any type of cycling and at any ability level, please get in touch.

Any cycling questionstom.shaw587@mod,gov and dominic.brandy100@mod.gov.uk

Road Cyclingadam.coulson515@mod.gov.uk

Mountain biking - CrossCountry (XC) and Endurochez.chester453@mod.gov.uk

Ladies Cycling and e-RacingMichelle.DebonoEvans467@mod.gov.uk

8 Taking a break in the Highlands during the Scottish North Coast 500

8 The Morzine Tour saw the road cycling team tackle sections of the Tour de France route

Successes at Army Team level

RLC rider Maj Hannah Hewins has had success over the show jumping season riding for the Army Team on the international circuit. This included The Royal International Horse Show at the world known Hickstead Stadium. Additionally, 2Lt Brian Leung has had joy in stepping up to the Army Eventing Team this season, debuting at British Eventing (BE) competitions. Army Dressage Team rider, Maj Rebecca Darke has been campaigning towards the British Dressage (BD) Championship finals. Stepping up a level, Maj Darke quickly sought to gain the three qualification scores required each at Novice, Novice Music, and Elementary levels, securing a PB of 70% in a semi-final class for sixth place in Novice Music and so an invitation to the National Finals. The partnership now qualified at two levels for the BD Associated Championships and the PetPlan Novice Music Final later in the year: a fantastic achievement in their first year.

The Royal Tournament Army Championships

There was excellent RLC representation at the Royal Tournament, which took place from 17-21 Jun 24 at the Defence Animal Training Regiment (DATR).

Pte Moxon came fourth in Intro A and sixth in Intro B, and Cpl Gallagher came third in the Novice 24 dressage classes on their own horses. In showjumping, 2Lt Leung was sixth overall in the Intermediate league, and WO1 Wright and Cpl Gallagher completed the clear round classes

Equestrian fixtures over the

RLC Equestrian

with success. This representation and these results have scored us points in the inter-corps league for 2024. 2Lt Leung an Army Event Team rider, represented the British Army Team in the eventing leg of the Loriners Inter-Service Championship at the Royal Tournament.

Royal Navy Championships

Maj Hewins, an RLC Army SJ Team rider, represented the British Army Team in the showjumping leg of the Loriners Inter-service Championship at the Royal Navy Championships on 23 Aug 24. Assisted by Maj Hewins’ performance, the Army team won this event gaining points for the inter-Service league 2024.

Royal Artillery Saddle Club, Larkhill (RASC(L))

The RLC Equestrian Team regularly trains at the RASC(L) as it offers top of the range facilities, with an indoor arena, outdoor arena, and a world class British Eventing cross country course. Additionally, the saddle club has good horses that the team can use to train riders of all levels to better establish their skills. This is particularly useful for the team as it allows riders that don’t own their own horses to participate in the sport. Furthermore, the use of hired horses from Larkhill saddle club has been a great initiative that the team have started this year and has

8 Maj H Hewins - Army Showjumping

provided some great opportunities for the team to compete at events on the horse that they train on and know, whilst paying more funds into the saddle club ultimately benefits future training clinics. Training clinics are open to all levels of riders with or without their own horses. There are eight, two-day clinics run a year.

RLC rider Maj Georgie Mawbey also heads up the Army Grassroot (novice riders) and Army Intermediate League which are run at RASC(L) in spring and summer each year. This enables riders to compete against fellow Army riders at the same standard of experience and skill, who do not own or have access to a horse. The leagues are designed as a development pathway for riders to work their way up through the riding levels aiming to feed the riders into the Corps Team, competing at the recognised military events for The RLC.

AGC Polo Tournament Mon 26 Aug

By Maj N Hemsworth

The AGC Polo Cup, held at Tedworth Park Polo Club, on the August Bank Holiday, proved to be a thrilling finale to the summer season for the RLC Polo team. Despite

difficulties throughout the season in fielding a full team, due to operational and exercise commitments, The RLC pulled together for this final tournament and secured a 4-3 victory over the AGC in division two.

The team - consisting of Lt Col Lucy Anderson MBE, Maj Nigel Prescott, Maj Nicky Hemsworth, Capt Nick Lowe, and LCpl Nick Akuffo - came into the game determined to end their season on a high. They set the tone right from the start, with Capt Lowe making a strong impact in the first chukka, scoring whilst ducking the post and narrowly avoiding injury (for a change). The momentum continued in the second chukka, with Maj Hemsworth adding another goal for The RLC, extending its lead to 2-0. The RLC’s cohesive teamwork and effective marking, particularly by

LCpl Nick Akuffo, kept the AGC at bay, and they looked in control as the match approached its halfway point. In the third chukka, however, the AGC began to mount a comeback. Their team managed to score their first goal of the match, narrowing The RLC’s lead to 2-1. The RLC, though, remained composed, continuing to press forward and defend their advantage going into the final chukka. The final chukka was where the match truly came alive. The AGC levelled the score early in the chukka, applying significant pressure on The RLC. Shortly after The RLC then gave away a 30-yard penalty, which was easily put through the posts by the AGC captain. The RLC were undeterred despite losing their lead and Lt Col Anderson delivered an aerial shot and a fantastic run down the length of the field, setting up Capt Lowe for his second goal to bring the score to 3-3 just before the bell. With an additional 30 seconds of play, The RLC won the line out and were quickly at the AGC goalmouth, with a chaotic scramble in front of the goal and every player from both teams getting a touch, but Lt Col Anderson was able to eventually get her stick to the ball and score the winning goal, with seconds to spare, securing a 4-3 victory to The RLC.

The day was rounded off with the award of RLC Colours for Polo to Maj Nicky Hemsworth during the prize-giving by Brig (Retd) Justin Stanhope-White (late The RLC). Congratulations are also due to Lt Col Lucy Anderson, Maj James Wilson and Capt Nick Lowe who have also received RLC Colours for Polo this season.

The RLC team is looking forward to continuing the momentum set at the AGC cup as the winter arena season approaches. The tournament was superbly organised by the AGC and Tedworth Park Polo Club and the RLC team would like to thank them for organising such a great event. Anyone interested in playing Polo is encouraged to get in contact with Capt Nick Lowe (james.lowe643@mod.gov.uk). No prior experience of polo is required.

8 The triumphant RLC team

Inset: Maj Nicky Hemsworth is awarded her RLC Sports Colours

8 Maj R Darke - Army Dressage

Horses and Wagons: The Unsung Heroes of World War I

War horses during the First World War came in many shapes and sizes, from the smart officer’s mount or the large cavalry charger to the strong, powerful work horses that pulled or carried ammunition, supplies, guns and eventually, the wounded. The army of the time could not have functioned without these horses and the men who looked after them.

A WWI soldier put his horse before himself and formed a strong bond with his animal. The Royal Logistic Corps Horse-Drawn Heritage team again held its annual Horses and Wagons: The Unsung Heroes of WW1 at the RLC Museum in August. This event, with the support of the RLC Museum, has proved popular with the local community as well as with the many enthusiasts who come from farther afield. We were delighted to have welcomed over 1,000 people this year and spent three warm and sunny days displaying all the vehicles in the collection, talking to visitors and, of course, taking centre stage were our modern-day war horses, Romeo, Disco and Ivor. The horses, along with their riders - Sgt Anthony Bysouth, Maj David Puckey and Miss Sally Hodgsongave hourly demonstrations throughout the event.

Romeo is a driving horse and stood patiently while Sgt Bysouth talked about how his horse would have been taken up from a farm and shipped off to France as a working horse to help pull a General Service wagon of supplies or ammunition along the supply line or to the front line. Sgt Bysouth explained all the equipment on Romeo as well as his own uniform and the equipment he carried with him. There was a soldier’s Bell Tent as part of the display too, and the

public was fascinated to see inside and discover how many men shared such a small space.

Disco is an officer’s charger and, with Maj Puckey in full uniform, they demonstrated the equipment worn by them both and the techniques used by man and animal in a charge. Although the type of warfare was changing and the mass cavalry charge was no longer utilised after the initial stages of the war, due to the advent of more longrange firepower.

Ivor was particularly popular with visitors as he demonstrated the role of a WWI pack pony. He was harnessed up with the pack animal frame and demonstrated carrying boxes of ammunition to the front line. He also skillfully demonstrated being loaded into the Horse Ambulance to be taken to a veterinary station for treatment to injuries. Many of our visitors were surprised to learn that around eight million horses were used in WWI and many thousands of horses were also treated for bullet wounds, gas and even shellshock.

Each stand was busy throughout the weekend, with skills demonstrations ongoing and lots of chatting to visitors. All our ‘green fleet’ vehicles in the Collection were on display and included: two Mark X General Service Wagons,

Displays this year also included:

Farriery, by Jarvis Browning.

the Mark II Horse Ambulance, the Officers’ Mess Cart, the Water Cart, and an 18 PDR Gun with limber. Additionally, we were able to show off our two immaculate and beautifully elegant (approximately 1875 built) Park Drags together with the believed 1850 built Braque de Chasse by temporarily taking over the Museum’s new DUKW display facility in case of rain.

The entire Horse-Drawn Heritage Team worked hard all weekend and was proud to be able to display all the vehicles and illustrate the life of a WWI soldier. Particular thanks and appreciation is due to 19 Tank Transporter Sqn, 27 Regt RLC, for providing two young soldiers from the Sqn and to the RLC Museum team for its continued support.

Horses and Wagons:

The Unsung Heroes of WWI returns to the RLC Museum over 8, 9 and 10 Aug 25. We look forward to seeing you there! rlchorse-drawnheritage.com

Saddlery, by Paul Allison, himself a former Cpl of Horse from the Household Cavalry who had also previously worked in the Royal Mews.

Wheelwrights, by Croford Coachbuilders & Master Wheelwrights, holders of a Royal Warrant.

Vickers Machine Guns, by Major John Underwood. Soyer Stoves, by the Museum’s indomitable catering team, providing sausage or bacon rolls and refreshments. Uniforms and equipment ‘try on’ for children and adults alike.

The RLC Association - Honouring Our FallenThe Cenotaph Parade, Whitehall, London

On Sunday, 10 November 2024, 90 members of The Royal Logistic Corps Association marched past the Cenotaph in Whitehall to pay their respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

The RLC Association marched alongside comrades from across the Armed Forces, where they reflected on the courage, dedication, and lives given in the line of duty.

On conclusion of the poignant ceremony that included Miss Stacey-Louise Bottomley, the daughter of the late Cpl Phillip Bottomley RLC who was KIA on 27 July 1994 in Sarajevo, Bosnia whilst on tour with the UN, we joined together for a lunch at the Victory Services Club, where we shared memories, renewed bonds, and honoured the legacy of our fallen. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. We Will Remember Them

LAST POST

Alpin - On 16 October 2024, Mr RB Aplin RASC

Atkinson - On 27 July 2024, Mr A Atkinson RAOC

Bant - On 18 July 2024, Mr T Bant RCT

Barnes - On 24 October 2024, Mr GW Barnes

RASC/RCT

Barrett - On 14 October 2024, Mrs J Barrett

Beavan - On 8 July 2024, Maj KJ Beavan RCT

Beech - In August 2024, Mrs J Beech RLC

Bentley - On 5 October 2024, Maj A D Bentley RAOC

Bondsfield - On 19 October 2024, Maj M Bondsfield RAOC

Boyce - On 12 September 2024, Mr A Boyce RCT

Brill - On 26 Septmber 2024, Mr A Brill RAOC

Byrne - On 15 September 2024, Mr A Byrne RCT

Carnwath - On 12 October 2024, Mr K Carnwath

RCT/RLC

Clayton - On 17 November 2024, Mr M Clayton RLC VR

Clifton - On 17 September 2024, Lt Col L N Clifton

RAOC

Cook - On 23 September 2024, Mr M R G Cook RAOC

Crosdale - In October 2024, Mr D Crosdale RLC

Darby - On 19 October 2024, Mr R Darby RASC/RCT

Dexter - On 5 September 2024, Maj A W C Dexter

RAOC

Ewers - On 17 April 2023, Maj T J Ewers RAOC

Friel - On 10 September 2024, Mr N Friel RCT

Garland - On 2 August 2024, Mr A J Garland

RASC/RAOC

Giles - On 3 August 2024, Mr H Giles RAOC

Glenton - On 16 June 2024, Mr G Glenton RAOC

Gorer - On 16 September 2024, Maj DC Gorer

RASC/RCT

Gould - On 7 October 2024, Mr HG Gould RASC

Griffiths -On 27 September 2024, Mr M Griffiths RAOC

Gunson - On 24 September 2024, Col J B Gunson late RAOC/RLC

Hall - On 9 September 2024, Mr P Hall RASC

Hallmark - On 5 August 2024, Mr L Hallmark RAOC

Hammond - On 14 September 2024, Mr M Hammond

RCT/RLC

Harris - On 18 September 2024, Mr M Harris RCT

Hill - On 27 June 2024, Lt W R Hill RAOC

Hughes - On 19 August 2024, Mr M Hughes

RASC/RCT

Jackson - On 10 September 2024, Mr W Jackson RAOC

James - On 8 October 2024, Mr RC James RCT

Jamieson - On 9 September 2024, Mr WS Jamieson RCT

Johnson - On 23 August 2024, Mr M Johnson RASC

Johnson - On 6 September 2024, Mr G Johnson

RASC/RCT

Lane - On 24 December 2023, Mr R J Lane RAOC

Lazenby - On 24 October 2024, Mr J Lazenby MBE

RAOC/AGC(SPS)

Lewis - On 4 September 2024, Mr A Lewis RASC

Magee - On 27 August 2024, Mr H Magee RCT

McCrea - On 19 October 2024, Mr AJ McCrea

RASC/RAOC

McCrea - On 19 October 2024, Mr A J McCrea

RASC/RAOC

Merritt - On 10 June 2024, Lt Col JB Merritt RASC/RCT

Miseroy - On 12 August 2024, Maj PE Miseroy

RASC/RCT

Owen - On 4 August 2024, Pte A Owen RLC

Pay - On 24 October 2024, Mrs S Pay

Potts - On 5 September 2024, Mr C Potts RAOC

Rawlins - On 24 October 2024, Maj R A Rawlins OBE

TD DL RAOC/RLC

Rodd - On 26 September 2024, Mr R Rodd RASC/RCT

Rowley - On 25 October 2024, Maj D W Rowley RAOC

Shilling - On 31 October 2024, Mr PW Shilling

RASC/RCT

Smith - On 11 September 2024, Maj D Smith QVRM

RCT/RLC

Sturrock - On 29 August 2024, Capt J Sturrock RCT

Thompson - In September 2024, Maj NL Thompson

RASC/RCT/RLC

Thorpe - On 11 September 2024, Mr N Thorpe RCT

Vickers - On 28 August 2024, Mr G Vickers RAOC

Warne - On 5 October 2024, Mr MS Warne RCT

Webster - On 24 October 2024, Maj A De G Webster

RASC/RCT

Wells - On 28 September 2024, Lt Col CRH Wells

RASC/RCT

White - On 25 August 2024, Col C H White late

RAOC/RLC

White - In October 2024, Mr S White RLC

Whittal - On 15 September 2024, Mrs KP Whittall

Woodyear - On 20 September 2024, Maj R J Woodyear

RAOC

Young - On 12 August 2024, Maj M Young TD

RCT/RLC/REME

Young - On 18 September 2024, Maj K Young

RAOC/RLC

Young - On 1 October 2024, Maj R Young ACC/RLC

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