The Sustainer Winter 2025

Sustainer THE

Corps Motto: We Sustain

Parade by Albert Elms

Lion, Sword and Crown by Craig Bywater

Welcome to the winter 2025 edition of The Sustainer.

If you are serving in The RLC and are reading this it means you have accessed your Corps magazine online, via the Downrep, the RLC App or the RLC Association website.

As has been briefed in the last two editions, from this edition, RHQ The RLC has now stopped sending printed copies to RLC units and RLC service personnel serving with other units, formation HQs and within military establishments.

Corps headquarters knows that in the past thousands of hard copies of the magazine have never reached their intended readers due to not making it beyond post room or squadron office floors. Each copy of the magazine costs around £1.80 to print and we have been fortunate that for many years the magazine’s bulk distribution has been facilitated by BFPO free of charge. Cost saving measures have already seen some other Corps and Regiments made pay to use the BFPO system and an additional cost such as this would not be sustainable for The RLC.

The cessation of printed copies as outlined above will save the RLC Charity at least £9,500 a year. This money will be used instead to help fund the RLC App. The RLC Charity receives its income from dividends on

EDITOR’S NOTE

investments and your contributions via the One Day’s Pay Scheme. So, if you haven’t signed up to the RLC App do so now as you are helping to fund it.

Now the majority of Sustainer’s readership is viewing it online, from the spring 2026 edition the magazine will benefit from a redesign to make it more user-friendly for viewing and reading on mobile devices and laptops. The new design will have a cleaner layout, using fonts designed for screens. There will be better use of images and fewer words per page. This means if you are submitting an article it will need to be concise and to the point and the accompanying images must be high quality. Guidance on article submissions will be issued separately in the New Year.

Despite the move to a predominantly digital publication, Sustainer remains the key element of the Corps’ historical record and its scope and reach is greater than before. Please continue to support it with your articles and news stories.

Thank you for your support in 2025 and I wish you a very Merry Christmas and safe and successful 2026.

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 –27 Feb 26, Summer –22 Jun 26, Winter –2 Oct 26

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

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

Email: peter.shakespeare100@mod.gov.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 7901 676309

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

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

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

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

Advertising: While we do accept paid-for advertisements, space is very limited. Please contact the editor.

Security: This Journal contains official information. It should be treated with discretion by the recipient.

© Crown Copyright: All material in this Journal is Crown Copyright and may not be reproduced without the permission of the Regimental Association of The Royal Logistic Corps.

© Cartoons are copyright.

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

Front Cover: A Class 1 Pet Op on Ex FIRST COMMAND. Image Cpl N Tanuku RLC Media

Movement Controllers train in Norway

Movement Controllers from 29 Regiment RLC the Norwegian and Canadian Armed Forces recently deployed to a large rail terminal in Sessvollmoen Norway to conduct Ex CENTURION EXPRESS 25. The exercise saw the Movement Controllers carry out essential rail training. This exercise enabled them to gain hands-on experience under strict safety protocols, enhancing practical skills and enabling confident supervision of rail movements in real-world settings. By gaining this type of practical experience, Mov Cons can contribute to smoother operations and increased productivity. Working alongside NATO partners such as the Norwegians and Canadians also strengthens interoperability which will enhance mission readiness, streamline multinational logistics coordination, reinforcing NATO’s collective operational effectiveness.

Exercise FIRST COMMAND

The RLC’s Class 1 Petroleum Operators course recently conducted Exercise FIRST COMMAND at Barton Stacey Training Area.

This demanding 14-day exercise is designed to test their trade knowledge, command skills and leadership preparing them to take on the role of Person in Charge (PiC) of a deployed bulk fuel installation (DBFI).

Throughout this exercise, each student takes on a 24-hour leadership rotation, managing trade scenarios that challenge their decision-making, teamwork, and operational planning skills. It’s an intense but rewarding phase of their training developing confident, capable leaders who are ready to take charge in any environment.

Exercise CAMBRIAN PATROL

RLC Officers and Soldiers won 20 percent of the gold medals awarded to teams at the 2025 iteration of Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL. Known as one of the world’s most demanding patrolling exercises this was an outstanding effort.

The teams awarded gold were: 10 Queen's Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment, 13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC, 9 Regiment RLC and the Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion.

Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL is an international mission focused and scenario-based exercise. It is not a competition, although patrol performance is assessed

throughout based on Battlecraft Syllabus and Individual Training Requirement, in addition to robustness and leadership.

Made up of phases - each of 48 hrs, over 10 days – patrols cover approximately 60km (the average climb and descent is over 1,000m) carrying up to 32kg per person. The exercise is designed to be arduous, and all participants must be prepared both mentally and physically.

Teams from 1 Regiment RLC and 27 Regiment RLC were awarded silver medals with the team from 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC picking up bronze. Well done to them.

Image: Sgt C Eden RLC Media

EXPLORE YOUR CORPS TODAY

The RLC App launched on 2nd June 2025 as part of a new strategy to transform the way The RLC connects across the Corps Family.

Aimed principally at connecting and informing serving personnel about everything the Corps does; importantly it is also about keeping our veterans, families and our Forming Corps veterans in touch.

The RLC App includes Pinboard, Search & Connect, Groups, Events and Chat functions, as well as signposting to a range of support. It is downloadable for mobile devices free on Android and Apple, as well as being accessible through a MODNET friendly web-app for desktop, laptop and tablet computers.

Since launch nearly 6,500 people have signed up with just under 3,500

being serving personnel. That means there are around 7,500 serving RLC officers and soldiers who are missing out on everything the RLC App has to offer.

The greater the interaction the more you, the user, benefits.

Special Interest Groups in the App include Sports teams, societies and associations, Career Employment Groups (Trades), Units, Veterans, Social and many General Interest Groups. News posts from Corps HQ keep all ranks, wherever you are serving, informed about key Corps events, developments and provide access to the monthly DOWNREP.

If you’re not on the RLC App you are missing out, so download it and sign up today.

‘‘Please take a moment as you read this to reflect on your achievements this year, and please also take a moment to thank all those people in your lives that have made your personal sacrifice possible

THE COLONEL RLC'sPERSPECTIVE

As the year draws to a close, it gives us all the opportunity to reflect on the success and challenges of another busy year in the Corps.

This year has been shaped by two guiding priorities: that of maximizing the Corps’ core logistic expertise to support the warfighters and accelerating modernisation to meet the evolving landscape of conflict. The launch of the new RLC Strategy in February provides a framework to pull the disparate elements of the Corps together to cohere expertise and resource to maximise success. This year members of the Corps have participated on 23 active operations with 8% of the Corps deployed at any given time, supporting Defence’s efforts both at home and overseas: demonstrating our persistent contribution to the nation's security.

Modernisation efforts reached new levels with more than £11.5 million invested in advanced sustainment concepts and increased lethality. Highlights included 3,500+ new handheld radios and smart devices across all three Logistic Brigades, enabling encrypted communications and improved situational awareness. The arrival of 460 Palletised Load System vehicles has enhanced protected mobility and, in some units, doubled lift. This work will continue into 2026 with 8 Squadron, 27 Regiment taking on the first fleet of autonomous vehicles, aligning military vehicle capability with emerging industry technology.

People and welfare remained central to The RLC’s success and are the focus of the RHQ. The RLC Charity, funded in part by the One Day's Pay Scheme, delivered over £3 million of funding to various critical activity across the Corps from supporting RLC

Benevolence for soldiers and officers and their families in need, to funding to assist with Sport and AT. The RLC yet again is 'The Corps to Beat' at sport. The Corps remains the Army Sports Champions for both Major and Reserve Units; this year 13 Air Assault Support Regiment taking the Major Unit Trophy and yet again 165 Regiment picking up the Reserve crown. The Corps boasts a formidable; three Olympians, five National Governing Body Athletes, 25 UK Armed Forces selections, 134 selections and 20 Armed Forces and individual champions. From the Benevolence Fund the Corps has supported over 1,500 cases requiring benevolence support which includes the Respite Holiday Scheme offering well over 100 families from The RLC the chance to take a break and get away.

But these statistics underpin a Corps running at a high operational tempo, and people are at the heart of the Corps’ success at every turn. Behind every achievement or operational success is a member of our cap badge making a difference. I am constantly struck by the positivity of our people and their willingness to go the extra mile for others and make a difference. I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you for what you do.

Please take a moment as you read this to reflect on your achievements this year, and please also take a moment to thank all those people in your lives that have made your personal sacrifice possible.

On behalf of the Corps, I wish you and the wider Royal Logistic Corps Family, a very Happy Christmas and successful and prosperous New Year and I look forward to seeing many of you out and about in 2026.

Colonel J S Powell ADC

Army Surf Riders Hit the Waves in Portugal

In September, WO2 Matthew Price, 9 Regiment RLC, took part in Ex PENICHE SURF, an overseas visit with the Army Surf Riders in Peniche, Portugal. The exercise brought together 24 personnel from across the Army, representing a diverse mix of cap badges.

Peniche, renowned for its worldclass waves, provided the perfect training ground for this physically

demanding activity. The trip gave participants the opportunity to sharpen their surfing skills, strengthen camaraderie, and build mental resilience through sport.

The presence of a representative from The RLC highlighted the Corps' commitment to sport and personal development. It was a memorable experience that showcased the Army’s dedication to developing well-rounded

soldiers through challenge and sport.

This annual overseas visit serves as preparation for the upcoming Inter-Services Surfing and Bodyboard Competition, typically held on the north coast of Cornwall, UK.

If you are interested in becoming part of Army Surfing, please contact: 9RLC-90Sqn-SFCWO2@mod.gov.uk

National recognition for RLC fisherman

SSgt Begha, currently a SPSI in 158 Regt RLC, has joined England’s finest anglers with a place in the England Fly Fishing team.

But behind his moment of triumph at the England National Qualifier, lies a story of grit, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. Just three years ago, SSgt Begha picked up a fly rod for the first time. What began as a curiosity quickly became a passion, and soon, a mission. SSgt Begha began his journey by joining the Army Fly Fishing Federation, where he gained valuable experience through various competitions and developed a deeper understanding of

competitive angling. He dedicated countless hours of personal time on the water, honing his skills and mastering the craft.

His rapid progress and evident potential were soon recognised by the Army team, leading to his selection for the prestigious Inter Services competition. Over time, he has earned multiple awards within Army level events.

At the national qualifiers, he competed against 99 of the country’s top anglers. His hard work and relentless commitment have now paid off. He has secured a place in the England team. This is not only a remarkable personal achievement for SSgt Begha, but also a proud moment for the Army.

‘‘Looking ahead to 2026, let us carry forward the values that make our Corps exceptional: professionalism, teamwork and a steadfast commitment to delivering world class logistic support

As winter settles in and we approach the end of the year, it feels like the right moment to pause, reflect and look ahead. Over the past months, the resilience and professionalism across The Royal Logistic Corps have stood out once again. Whether supporting operations overseas, delivering essential training or sustaining units through demanding exercises, you have shown the adaptability and determination that define our Corps.These qualities are tested even more during winter, when harsh conditions challenge both our equipment and our resolve, and time and again you rise to meet them.

Winter can also be a difficult period personally. Welfare remains one of my highest priorities, and I encourage every leader at every level to keep a close eye on their people. Often the simplest actions such as checking in, taking time to listen or offering support make the biggest difference. And to anyone who needs help, speak up. No one in this Corps stands alone, and we are always stronger when we look out for one another.

This year also marked the launch of our Corps Strategy… An important milestone for our future. Its success depends on all of us, and as we move towards 2026, I encourage everyone to revisit it and think about how you can contribute. Developing our skills, modernising our capabilities and strengthening our partnerships will not happen overnight, but steady progress from all of us will shape the future we want for the Corps.

We have also continued to push ourselves to be more capable, more agile and more lethal. The drive to triple our lethality is not just a slogan but a genuine shift in mindset that is already influencing how we train and operate. Exercises such as Ex NORTHERN STRIKE have shown what we are capable of when we push our limits. The grit, determination and professionalism on display during that military skills exercise were exceptional and proved that our people can thrive in the most demanding conditions. The same can be said for our

FROM THE RANKS

participation in Cambrian Patrol, one of the toughest patrolling events anywhere in the world. Our teams represented the Corps with pride, resilience and tactical excellence, demonstrating that we remain competitive at the very highest levels. These achievements highlight a Corps that is confident, capable and ready for the future.

Staying connected is essential, and the RLC App continues to grow as a key tool for communication and engagement. If you’re already using it, help us spread the word and encourage others to join the conversation. The App makes it easy to stay informed about Corps news, events, and opportunities, and provides a simple way to share achievements and ideas. Our strength lies in our collective knowledge and experience; together, we can make the most of it. Share the App with your colleagues today and help keep the Corps connected.

As we close out the year, I want to express my sincere thanks to every member of the Corps. Whether Regular or Reserve, deployed or working hard in barracks, your dedication underpins everything the British Army delivers. I also want to congratulate all those who have reached WO1 this year.Your achievement reflects years of professionalism, commitment and leadership, and it sets a clear example for others to follow. Congratulations as well to those recognised in recent honours and awards.Your success demonstrates the high standards we all strive for. Looking ahead to 2026, let us carry forward the values that make our Corps exceptional: professionalism, teamwork and a steadfast commitment to delivering world class logistic support. Together, we will continue to uphold our proud traditions while embracing the innovation and change that will define our future.

I wish you and your families a safe, restful and happy festive season. Thank you for everything you do for our Corps and for our Army.

We Sustain.

WO1 W E Marquis Corps Sergeant Major RLC

MEDICAL LOGGIES FIND THEIR RHYTHM

As part of the 2025 CYCLONE training series 84 Medical Supply Squadron (MSS), a niche defence asset responsible for medical and blood logistics, deployed to Barton Stacey training area to conduct Ex PANTHERS PULSE (CT A/B).

The purpose of the exercise was to validate 84MSS to ensure it is competent to provide medical and blood supply capabilities worldwide. Each medical detachment deployed a det commander (SNCO), 2IC (JNCO) and between three and five medical and blood SCOs. The exercise was planned and executed by SHQ under the direction of the STWO, WO2 Orton.

84MSS personnel were assessed on various medical supply scenarios including establishment and operation of a Det, Blood Storage Unit (BSU) temperature

The RLC Sustainment School is continuing to expand its course delivery this quarter; providing Army Reserve Chef courses, a Contract Management Awareness course and Communication training for Reservists which includes Bowman and Watchkeeper. In addition, at the request of RHQ The RLC and supported by 104TSB, the Sustainment School has added Driver Training to its ever-

mapping and receiving, storing and issuing of plasma cells using the correct processes and procedure. Once established, the Dets processed hundreds of demands and completed over 30 taskings, as well as dealing with scenarios including loss of power to the BSUs and the sudden absence of the Det Comds, to test the leadership of the 2IC and Det SP. It was also a valuable opportunity for experienced personnel to transfers KSEB to newer members of the squadron ensuring skill retention. The highlight during this exercise was taking part in a scenario with the support of a Chinook to deliver a casualty from Barton Stacey to Buckley Barracks and then return to Barton Stacey with a golden hour box. 32 SP from the Sqn and attachments had the opportunity to participate and for many it was their first time in a helicopter.

expanding portfolio. They have successfully delivered two Defence General Service Driver (DGSD) courses for Land Rover and will be delivering DGSD SV courses. To book a place on a course simply use the RHQ The RLC Distributed Training Course application on Power Apps. Courses are open to Regular and Reserve SP. HAZMAT training is due to be delivered in early 2026.

Pte King Combat Stress

East Midlands Outreach team member, Pte Jessica King (RLC) has climbed Mount Snowdon carrying the 25kg in weight that she lost personally with the support of her colleagues and friends in aid of Combat Stress.

Pte King says: “In August last year I was posted to Outreach Team Recruitment Group in Chilwell, Nottingham. Over the past year I have been on a mission to improve both my physical and mental wellbeing. Through consistent training and lifestyle changes, I've manged to lose 25 kilograms, a transformation that's not only changed my health but also my mindset and confidence.

“My goal is to raise £1,000 for Combat Stress. I am currently at £385. Every donation helps provide vital mental health support to veterans and serving soldiers.”

To support Pte King, scan the QR code.

Reach for the stars

The officer who will take over command of 4 Regiment RLC in October 2026 has had a remarkable army career, so far.

Lt Col Andy Thackway MBE grew up in a deprived part of North Wales in the 1990s, that offered limited employment opportunities. By his own admission, he left school with a handful of mediocre GCSEs having failed to apply himself. He had a strong desire to move away and better himself, because he feared getting stuck in a rut; an all too familiar situation for many young people both then and today.

He had friends who had turned to a career in the Armed Forces as a way of escaping and making something of themselves. Their tales and experiences inspired him to take this path.

On 6th September 1997 Andy Thackway, along with millions of people around the world, watched the funeral of HRH Princess Diana on television. It was a moment that would shape his life and one that arguably initiated the chain of events that brought him to the point he finds himself in his life and career today.

Already decided on enlisting in the Army, he was struck by how smart and professional the Welsh Guardsmen were who escorted Princess Diana’s coffin through the streets of London to Westminster Abbey.

Suitably inspired, he joined the Welsh Guards and, following basic training, embarked on a career that – thanks to the chain of command in his Battalion who recognised and nurtured his talent and potential – saw him reach the rank of Lance Sergeant, pass the Army Officer Selection Board (AOSB), attend RMAS, and commission into The RLC. Embarking on a career as an Officer, career highlights include learning Nepali, commanding Gurkha soldiers, commanding 2 Squadron on operations – which earned him an MBE –and, most recently, being selected to command 4 Regiment RLC.

Today Lt Col Thackway heads up the Unacceptable Behaviours Team in the Army Personnel Services Group in Army Headquarters, which is where The Sustainer caught up with him.

He explains: “My commissioning journey started in 2006. I was a Lance Sergeant in the Signals Platoon in 1st Battalion the Welsh Guards; so I was what an RLC soldier would know as a Comms Spec. My Company Commander and Company Sergeant Major took me to one side and said they thought that I had the potential to go for commissioning. Initially I was quite reticent!

“My initial reaction came from the moment people suggested I had the potential to achieve something greater than my current role. That can feel intimidating because it means stepping out of your comfort zone and risking failure. But when those people, whom you respect, place their confidence in you, it should inspire a determination not to let them down. For anyone facing this, my advice is to recognise that it’s a blend of feeling inspired by their belief in you whilst being slightly daunted by the challenge ahead. Success lies in reconciling those two emotions.

“Fortunately, my chain of command saw the potential in me, and they gently persuaded me. They put time and effort into developing me by giving me presentations to deliver, giving me written work to do, and it built up my self-confidence to the point at which I felt ready to go to the AOSB.”

But going for it also had its challenges. Lt Col Thackway continues: “I was quite concerned that, as a Lance Sergeant and a member of the Sergeants’ Mess, if I failed officer selection, I would come back to the Battalion, and my position would be untenable. So, my OC enabled me to go on selection without saying to anybody else what I was going for… I think they put

Image: Sgt C Eden

RLC

together some spurious excuse about a signals course. And that reduced my fear of failure.”

But L/Sgt Thackway clearly didn’t fail the AOSB and was soon to become OCdt Thackway starting the 44week Regular Commissioning Course. Did his previous service as an Infantry Soldier give him an advantage at Sandhurst? “Previous soldier service with any cap badge gives you a big advantage in the junior term of Sandhurst for two important reasons. First, you understand that basic training is a game. You know that it doesn’t matter how well your locker is done, it will still not meet the standard the following day, so you may as well get some sleep. Being able to rationalise things in this way means that you don’t take things personally and you’re mentally stronger for it. Second, when everyone else is flapping, you retain a calm head because it’s not new to you; you know what you’re doing. And that will have a steadying influence on the rest of your Platoon. This puts you in a position of leadership on a course designed to select and train leaders; the advantage is self-evident.

“However, this advantage levels out by the start of the intermediate term, where the ability to think critically and plan outweigh the ability to polish boots. My advice to any former soldiers going to Sandhurst would therefore be, use the junior term to your best advantage: help others mentally and physically adapt to life in the military and build the relationships that you might need to call upon when the later terms push you out of your comfort zone. Whatever you do, don’t rest on your laurels!”

Lt Col Thackway admits that before joining the Army, or even going to Sandhurst, his knowledge of the Royal Logistic Corps was limited. He says: “At Sandhurst I went through the Arms and Services process, which is the point at which you choose the cap badge you're going to commission into. I had no strong preference and certainly knew very little about The RLC. I went around all the Corps and Regimental stands to see what they had to offer. But the offer from The RLC was absolutely exceptional. And thankfully the Corps wanted me.”

What has happened since? Lt Col Thackway explains: “I commissioned in 2007 having completed the year at Sandhurst, and if anybody's reading this and is in any doubt about whether to go for it, the commissioning course is absolutely fantastic.

“My Troop Command was commanding Gurkhas in 10 QOGLR. I'd been fascinated by the Gurkhas because they're brilliant people with a brilliant culture and shortly after joining the Regiment, I went to Nepal for three months and did the long language course. Returning, I took my troop to Kenya for two months and did the buildup training for Afghanistan. In theatre the pinnacle of that tour was commanding the Force Protection Troop, protecting the combat logistic patrols, going from Bastion up to Sangin and other areas in Helmand.

“The level of responsibility that I had at that point was, absolutely incredible. After that, I went to university for three years on a fully funded residential degree, and I read a BSC in logistics and a BA in social sciences and politics concurrently. So having left North Wales with a handful of mediocre GCSEs, I then finished as a Captain with two degrees, and that really scratched the higher education itch.

From there I did several staff jobs, which taught me a huge amount. I spent four years at Abbey Wood, where I learned project management, safety, how to budget, how to manage a team that included civil servants and military along with a whole host of other skills.

“Perhaps the best job of all was sub-unit command. I took over 2 Squadron,1 Regiment RLC, in June 2021. I had been its Squadron 2IC and so I was absolutely thrilled to go back. Sub-unit command demands so much from you emotionally, intellectually, and physically, but it gives so much back.

“You learn so much about yourself, and you have the privilege of commanding an incredible group of people and taking them on operations. And that's what I got to do. I deployed three times. The first time was to a bunker in Preston, during Op RESCRIPT. We took 190 drivers

and backfilled the Northwest Ambulance Service working over an area of 5,000 square miles. We reduced the category two to five emergency response rates by 50%. When I came back, I was incredibly privileged to be appointed the Regiment’s acting Commanding Officer for three months while my CO was deployed. On her return, I then deployed on Op INTERLINK to an eastern facing role for the next two months.

“Just 48 hours after returning from that deployment, I deployed on Op ISOTOPE – Defence’s contribution to the small boat migration crisis. Three very different operations, each time taking my squadron with me. That close proximity to a squadron gives you the chance to really know your people, to positively influence their careers and support their families. That’s a genuine privilege.”

Following his time at sub-unit command, Maj Thackway was awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2024. Promoted to Lt Col, he now heads up the Unacceptable Behaviours Team at Army HQ. He explains: “We're effectively the sensing function for the Army Personnel Services Group. We deliver three key services that help to uncover behaviour in the Army which we would want to challenge.

“The first is climate assessments, where we go into units, speak to focus groups and really get an understanding of what it’s like to work in each of the Army's units, how leadership is permeating, and the kind of culture that's prevalent. The second is the Dispute Resolution Support Service, which is the new name for the Army Mediation Service with a few other supporting activities. It’s a very personal service that aims to restore operational effectiveness by bringing people together who previously couldn't work together or had a fractious relationship and allows them to resolve their differences. And the other mechanism we operate is the Speak Out anonymous, confidential, reporting line.

“It's an intensely people-focused job. Thinking about my next job, in terms of preparation for command, being able to go into units and see what works, what doesn't work and how leadership initiatives are being received at the lowest levels will be a big help.”

Throughout his army career, Lt Col Thackway has received some class leading mentoring and guidance. Which individuals stand out? He replies: “I think probably, two people stand out. The first one from a professional setting is Brigadier Patch Reehal. He's not in the Army now, but I worked for him twice: first when he was Commander of 28 Squadron in 10 QOGLR. The second time was when he was the Commander of 101 Brigade, and I was acting Commanding Officer of 1RLC. In terms of somebody who leads by example and genuinely cares about his soldiers, he was very inspirational. The second, from a personal perspective, is my wife, who recognises all the opportunities that there are and has encouraged me to go for them.

I must also mention Rupert Pim – my Company Commander in the Welsh Guards – who put me forward for commissioning.”

And having been on the receiving end of some great leadership what is Lt Col Thackway’s advice to junior officers and SNCOs: “You need to want to make a difference to your people's lives. A really profound difference. To do that, you need to know them, and you need to understand them. By doing this you will recognise the diversity that you have in your workforce and will be able to spot the talent. This takes time, but it’s a fundamental aspect of leadership.

“When I look at the people that I previously mentioned, they all saw potential in me, but they also invested time and energy into helping me see my own potential; almost leading me to the water. And, you know that's what makes the big difference. The RLC is full of incredibly talented people, and so it's likely that as a Troop Commander or a Senior NCO, you are going to have soldiers working for you who have the potential to go onto great things or a commission. In my case, I didn't have the self-confidence necessarily to go for it straight away, so it might be a process that you go through with them while you explain what the commissioning process is and what the outcome will be. But if you're in any doubt, get them to go to the AOSB - there’s nothing to lose. The Board is not looking for a finished product. It's looking for a raw material, and that raw material exists in many forms and there's a strong likelihood that it's in you. Do a bit of research about what the commissioning process entails, go for it, and let the Army Officer Selection Board decide.”

“There's a saying… You only regret the things in life that you didn't do.”

Exercise DRAGOON STEELBACK

Exercise DRAGOON STEELBACK

was an Adventurous Training Expedition to the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.

In July 2025, a band of intrepid soldiers swapped the rolling hills of England for something altogether more dramatic: the jagged ridgelines of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. Over 14 days, a joint team from 158 Regiment RLC and 2 Battalion REME embarked on an adventurous training expedition that pushed limits, forged friendships, and delivered an experience none of them will forget in a hurry. The expedition was planned, coordinated and delivered by SSgt Shaktihang Begha, of 158 Regiment.

Mountains, heat, and high spirits

The team partnered with members of the Moroccan Armed Forces and Gendarmerie, tackling a series of punishing routes that zigzagged up rocky trails and across high mountain passes. Each day brought its own brand of challenge: steep climbs, blistering temperatures, and the sheer stamina needed to keep moving when the air got thin and the legs turned heavy. Step by step, the group pulled together, pushing past fatigue, sharing the load, and finding humour in the toughest moments. Their final prize? A triumphant summit of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak at 4,167 metres. Standing at the top, looking out over the endless sweep of mountains and desert beyond, the sense of achievement was undeniable.

More than just physical Adventurous Training (AT) isn’t simply about testing physical limits. It is about sharpening the skills that matter most to soldiers. For Army Reservists in particular, who juggle civilian careers alongside military service, AT provides a rare chance to step away from the day-to-day and develop qualities like leadership, initiative, resilience, and adaptability in a challenging but controlled environment. As the

days unfolded, those qualities were put into practice. Decisions had to be made quickly, routes navigated carefully, and morale kept high when the going got tough. These weren’t just hiking lessons, they were lessons in command, teamwork, and endurance that will pay dividends on future operations.

Bridging borders

Equally rewarding was the chance to train shoulder to shoulder with Moroccan counterparts. Sharing meals, swapping stories, and laughing together around campfires, the barriers of language and background soon dissolved. What remained was a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that crossed cultural and military boundaries. It’s this spirit of

8 The 158 Regt Cohort

international collaboration that makes such expeditions truly special. In an age where cooperation is key, building relationships in the mountains translates into stronger ties on the world stage.

Backed by support

None of this would have been possible without the backing of the RLC Charity, whose generous funding helped bring together a diverse team for this unforgettable experience. By investing in opportunities like these, the RLC Charity continues to enrich military life by creating moments that challenge, inspire, and leave lasting memories.

8 Summiting Mt Toubkal was done in the true spirit of international collaboration

YOUR CAREER, YOUR CALL

RLC Officers Career Managers:

SO1 – Lt Col Steph Coles (from Dec 25)

Senior Maj – Maj Ken Ritchie

Junior Maj – Maj Joe Hegarty

Captains – Maj Francesca Hunter

Subalterns – Miss Leigh Doherty

We say a fond farewell to Lt Col Tim Beck who leaves the team on retirement from the Army after 37 years. After four assignments within the APC, his expertise and dry sense of humour will be missed by all, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

Please help us to help you

This year we have seen a far higher than usual error rate in Officers’ reports. Some 65% of DE Captain reports had to be returned to units for changes and this error rate is reflected across the officer ranks. Reporting Officers, administrators and the subjects must ensure ARs are completed in line with direction issued in JSP 757. Time spent checking reporting dates, recommendations etc. will ensure reports can be finalised more effectively once they reach APC. Time spent engaging with unit administrators and MS reps to rectify errors is time spent away from career management.

The balance of supply and demand is continuing to play out in all Officer appointment boards; RD, E1 and E2. It is therefore crucial for Service Personnel to

understand the priority of positions they are applying for. Please ensure that your preferences are realistic and compliant with guidance given by your Career Manager and/or the relevant boarding secretary. We strongly recommend watching The Savvy Soldier short video on You Tube, which includes some great tips which are applicable to all.

The future remains digital APC continues to strive for digital excellence with 25/26 being the APC’s “Year of Data”. With a focus on data literacy, data protection, data governance and data assurance across the year, the RLC team is upskilling to meet the information needs of the organisation. The APC Optimisation team is continuing to improve the Career Manager Manual with a new Wiki resource available to all through MS Web. In addition, the Career Management calendar for 2026, which includes detailed boarding dates and cap badge-specific tabs, is now available on the MS web. Looking to the future, we are tracking imminent JSP757 direction on the use of AI in generating reports, robotic-process automation being introduced to generate Assignment Orders autonomously and the possible inclusion of virtual board member to augment live board members. All of this is in development so please watch out for the associated communication packages on the DOWNREP.

RLC Recruiter process and opportunities

Army Career Centres (ACCs):

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

Corps Engagement Team (CET):

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

Outreach Teams (OTs):

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

RMAS specific courses to be aware of:

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

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

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

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

Instructor expression of interest QR code:

Expression of Interest:

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

Formal Career Plans (FCPs)

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

Stay Connected with Defence Connect

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

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Exercise VENTURER ANZUK CADET 25

By Cadet Cpl Macsen Morgan 207 Detachment

On the 3 July 25, 20 cadets, including some badged RLC, and five Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAV) from Middlesex and North West London travelled to Australia to take part in Exercise VENTURER ANZUK 25. They joined cadets from New South Wales Brigade AAC and the New Zealand Cadet Corps. After a 21-hour journey, we touched down in Sydney Airport and then made our way to Timor Barracks in Dundas, Sydney which would serve as the base of operations for the majority of the trip.

Our first opportunity to meet our Australian hosts came the following day during a visit to Lancer Barracks, Parramatta where they are based. Here we were treated to our first BBQ and to a display of vehicles used by the Royal NSW Lancers from WWI all the way up to Vietnam. The collection includes ACE, a fully functioning Matilda tank which served in the Pacific theatre of WWII.

There was no shortage of opportunities for the cadets to educate themselves on ANZAC military history with visits to the National Maritime Museum, the Australian Army Museum of Military Policing and the Australian Army Museum of Military Engineering which gave the cadets an in depth insight into the history of many of the major parts of the

the

and differences with their British counterparts. The most poignant visit of the first week was most definitely that to the Anzac memorial located in the centre of Sydney which was educational, interesting and a reminder of the significant sacrifices made by the Australians and New Zealanders in wars ranging from the Boer War to Iraq and Afghanistan. The final significant event in Sydney was a visit to Government House where we were delighted to receive a coin celebrating the coronation of His Majesty The King courtesy of the Governor General’s private secretary, Colonel Miller RFD.

On day seven of the exercise, we were joined by the Australian main contingent from 22 Battalion AAC in order to begin the six-day tour

around the state of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory of Canberra. Following a lengthy coach journey to Canberra the first stop was Anzac parade which is lined with 13 beautiful memorials honouring the sacrifices of Australian and New Zealand troops. This visit was enhanced as our Australian hosts shared their knowledge of the events covered by the memorials. On completion it was then on to Royal Military College Duntroon (Sandhurst equivalent) which would be home for the next three days.

Over the three days at Duntroon, the cadets were joined by the New Zealand contingent who were coming off the back of their amazing victory at the Australian Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge. We toured Duntroon and took part in command tasks alongside the Australians in mixed teams which built stronger bonds between the cadets from both nations. On the last day in Canberra, the cadets from all three nations visited Parliament House which provided yet another interesting and educational experience showcasing the differences and similarities between the British and Australian institutions. After this, the cadets took part in the daily Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War

8 Australian Engineers Museum Holsworthy

8 All three nations having a good time at the Wagga Wagga BBQ

Australian Defence Force and showcased

similarities

Memorial where all three nations lined the Pool of Reflection and a wreath was laid on behalf of the cadet forces. This ceremony was in memory of Pvt R.L Cornwell who sacrificed his life taking Tobruk in Libya in WW2.

Once our time at Duntroon was over, we visited the recruit training centre at Kapooka and were then able to meet cadets from the 24th Battalion AAC based at Wagga Wagga. The cadets found this day to be one of the best representations of the ANZUK spirit with activities like a barbecue and even a tri-nation rugby game, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. Cpl Corneschi (216 Tottenham) said: “It was one of the best cadet bonding experiences I’ve had and it really represented the spirit of ANZUK.”

All three nations were given the opportunity to deliver presentations on a variety of topics with the British cadets speaking on the history and structure of the ACF and their different cap badges; the New Zealanders spoke on their recent competition victory, and the Australians gave us a brief history of Kapooka barracks. The following day it was then onto Cowra where the cadets learnt about the Cowra breakout, which led to the deaths of 235 Japanese POWs and which was once again a sobering reminder to the reality of life in wartime. The cadets laid a wreath in the Cowra Commonwealth War Graves cemetery before driving on to stay with another Australian cadet unit at Marrangaroo, where they enjoyed another delicious BBQ. On the way to this destination the coach did a circuit of the Mount Panorama race circuit – but no records were broken!

Following a chilly night the following morning the cadets spent half a day at Scenic World in The Blue Mountains where everyone agreed that the name Scenic World did not do justice to the views on offer. Here they rode cable cars across the canyon, took a train on the steepest railway in the world and explored the fauna and flora along the many footpaths down in the valley. All too soon, it was time to return to Sydney and our last couple of nights in Timor barracks although we still had some touring to do.

The following day we took the train into Sydney and walked across the famous harbour bridge before catching the ferry to Manly which is right on the outer edge of the harbour. We had time for a visit to the beach – too cold to swim –and a quick lunch before returning to the city center. There we visited the Sky Tower and its amazing views as well as experiencing a VR ride around the outside of the tower – weird but great fun. That evening we had the ENDEX dinner where some presentations were made to the staff and enjoyed another excellent BBQ given by our hosts.

On the morning of the final day, we visited Paddy’s Market on the way to the airport for some essential souvenir buying before starting the long flight home via Singapore. On the way back we had time to look back on a brilliant two-week experience and reflect on what we had seen and the new friends that we had made. We are looking forward to hopefully meeting up again in 2026 for VENTURER ANZUK SOMME 26.

A selection of comments from those who took part:

Cadet Sgt Nicole Dosanjh, 19 Coy (RLC)

I found this trip to be a truly unforgettable experience as it gave me the chance to connect with new people as well as reconnect with friends I had made last year, all whilst learning more about Australian history and their diverse culture. Throughout the two weeks we visited a range of museums, war memorials and wildlife parks. I particularly liked our visit to Blue Mountains scenic world as it was a serene experience and allowed us to strengthen our bond with our Australian hosts. I am very grateful to have been given to opportunity to participate in this trip as it is something I would not be able to have done outside of cadets.

Cadet Cpl Barrington, 23 Coy (RLC)

The trip was, overall, a great experience which lived up to all our expectations of Australia. We saw a plethora of war memorials and museums and most importantly we met a large number of cadets from Australia and New Zealand that we were able to interact with and befriend, with many of us making friends for life.

8 Wreath laying at the Japanese cemetery at Cowra

8 Cadet Sgt Dosanjh of 193 (RLC) detachment located in Southall

Defence School of Logistics and Administration

Comdt: Gp Capt Rachel Mawdsley OBE RAF

85 (FOLEY) Squadron

85 (Foley) Squadron delivers LCpls - Sgts ALDP courses as its principal output. As a team of instructors, bonding, challenges and education are critical to keeping the team fresh and motivated for the students, this article covers some of those elements.

RLC Potential Trainer Assessment (PTA)

As part of the RLC’s re-invigorated drive to refine the pipeline for JNCOs aspiring to become the next generation of instructors for the Corps, 85 Sqn ran the new five-day course to help assess SP to prepare for future roles in Ph1 to Ph3 training delivery. With approximately two thirds of the cohort of recent LCpl to Cpl promotions having been recommended for instructional roles, the PTA is crucial to ensure the quality of these potential instructors and uphold the standards and reputation of the Corps.

Nine hopeful instructors, ranging from Pte to Cpl, attended the course and were put through their paces. After an introduction to basic instructional techniques, they delivered their own mock lessons, covering a range of subjects from fieldcraft through to conceptual understanding of Combined Arms Manoeuvre. This was then topped off with various visits and voices of experience to enhance wider awareness of the numerous instructor roles.

Under the watchful eye of the Sqn’s Sgts and 2IC, the students demonstrated a great range of potential and came away with an understanding of the next steps for their potential instructor journey. The Sqn looks forward to seeing more members of the Corps pass through its doors, attend the course, and ultimately project the RLC’s ethos across the Army’s various training establishments.

Trail Walker 2025

Two soldiers from 85 Sqn formed part of a DSLA team of four, to enter this year’s Trail Walker event, supported by three other members of 85 Sqn as support crew. Trail Walker is a gruelling 100 km foot race across the South Downs raising money for the Gurkha Welfare Trust. Participants are expected to complete this challenge within 30 hours.

The team set off at 0600hrs on Sat 20 Sep 25 with the aim of completing the event in 16 hours. To start with, the weather conditions were good, the team’s energy was high, and everyone was up for the challenge. However, the ground proved to be difficult, not only for the team on foot but also for the vehicles which often became stuck on the boggy ground at the checkpoints. As the day drew on and the light started to fade, the weather turned; winds picked up, to the extent some checkpoint tents were blown away. At this point our team was at check point 7, 12hrs in, with 30km to go. Spirits started to dwindle and the conditions became tough.

However, in true 85 Sqn fashion, the team continued to support each other and pushed on through. They used discipline and tenacity to finish and, more importantly,

employed teamwork and loyalty to each other to ensure they all finished together. They crossed the line just after 20 hours to complete this incredible achievement.

Logistic Specialist Training Wing (LSTW) HQ

CO: Wg Cdr Samantha Smy

This period has been both challenging and rewarding, with significant changes across LSTW. New OCs have taken command. Maj Jules Rann takes over the helm of 73 Sqn; Sqn Ldr Lowri Simner moved into command DMTS; Maj Carl Genari has joined DPSTS after completing the Defence Operational Energy Course and Sqn Ldr Samuel Warby now heads ACTS. Maj Georgie Mawbey has taken on the demanding role of COS, supporting all. Despite these transitions, our trainers continue to deliver excellence across all courses.

Defence Petroleum and Specialist Training Squadron (DPSTS)

OC: Maj Carl Genari

DPSTS has maintained a high tempo, successfully delivering courses that qualify Officers, Soldiers, and Civil Service staff to sustain Defence globally. A highlight was the graduation of the latest cohort from the Defence Operational Energy Course (DOEC), including OC Maj Carl Genari. After seven months of rigorous training, these Officers, including international students from Australia and Oman, are now qualified Operational Energy Specialists and can proudly wear the DOEC badge on their mess dress.

DPSTS also hosted the Chaplain General of His Majesty’s Land Forces, Reverend M D Parker KHC CF, who toured the Realistic Working Environment (RWE) for the

8 85 Sqn. Members of 85 (Foley) training team finish the 100km Trail Walker event

RLC Postal and Courier Class 2 and All Arms Basic Tailor courses. Padre Parker engaged with trainees, discussing their experiences and aspirations.

Air Command Training Squadron (ACTS)

September marked the reintroduction of the Defence Logistic Contract Management Awareness Course after an 18-month hiatus. Delivered for the first time by LSTW, the course was attended by personnel from a range of units, including HQ ARRC, 1 Regt RLC, and 10 QOGLR. Covering topics such as MOD procurement, contract implementation, and management, the course provided valuable insights into the commercial branch’s functions.

73 Squadron

During the summer, 73 Sqn personnel balanced well-earned leave with professional development and volunteer activities. Capt Taylor (2IC) and SSgt Coxall (Maritime Instructor) were trained to conduct War Grave site visits, cleaning and reporting on 66 headstones across multiple sites.

The Squadron also participated in the Goggins’ Challenge from 27–29 August, completing four miles every four hours for 48 hours while carrying 15kg. Of the eight participants, five completed the challenge, covering 99,712 steps and burning over 7,000 calories each. They raised £773.80 for the Army Benevolent Fund.

Congratulations to SSM MacPhee, Cpl Seal (73 Sqn), Maj Genari, Flt Lt De Jonghe, and Sgt B Limbu (DPSTS).

Defence Movements Training Squadron (DMTS)

OC: Sqn Ldr Lowri Simner

DMTS operated at full capacity during summer 2025, delivering 55 courses and qualifying 440 personnel. Highlights included the graduation of two RAF Basic Movements Training courses and the Army Movements Class 3 course, marking the completion of the recruitment pipeline. The Squadron also successfully delivered the second pilot of the rewritten 12-week Officers’ Movements Training (OMT) course.

DMTS supported various initiatives, including recruiting events in Swansea and Exeter, a Cadets’ Summer Camp, and more. In May, the Squadron hosted AVM Shaun Harris, Director Support, showcasing preparations for the Phase 2 training surge in 2026/2027 and demonstrating VR training equipment for C-17 loading. The Squadron also bid farewell to Sqn Ldr Kev Farrell.

LSTW continues to excel in delivering world-class training while adapting to change and embracing innovation.

This term has been all about change. A raft of new instructors has been selected and will begin training this winter ready to instruct on Class 3 and Class 1 courses. A new Comd DSLA and new CO CTW sees the review and future refinement of our direction. Pair this with the introduction of Land Training Systems to the RLC Strategy and CTW is primed to continue enhancement of training delivery.

Catering Training Wing (CTW)

8 Reverend M D Parker KHC CF visits the Postal RWE DPSTS

8 DPSTS Goggins Challenge

8 AVM Shaun Harris

The continued development of Field Training Exercises in anticipation of the next Ex COMBINED WARRIOR will showcase just how far the wing has come over the last 12 months.

CTW facilitated the DSLA Affiliates’ Day, linking in with the other schools to host our combined partners and show our appreciation of the support that these relationships bring.

Included in this was the donation of £9,500 to partnered charities, which was raised by the School’s RN working environment.

Supply Training Wing Driving Defence Logistics Forward

This quarter has been another whirlwind for the Supply Training Wing (STW), as the team continues to deliver trade training at pace across four key fronts. From reshaping flagship courses and championing innovation, to investing in people’s development and strengthening the bonds of teamwork, STW has shown once again that it thrives under pressure. The energy across the Wing is unmistakable, a reflection not only of the demand for skilled logisticians, but also of the dedication of those who make the training happen.

8 Realistic working environment

STW continues to be the beating heart of Defence logistics training, delivering specialist education not just for the Army, but across all three Services, Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force. This tri-service reach underlines the importance of STW in shaping logisticians who are prepared to operate seamlessly in joint environments. By training personnel from every corner of Defence, the Wing ensures that logisticians share a common foundation of skills, standards, and professional ethos, enabling them to support operations effectively whether on land, at sea, or in the air.

Quartermasters Division

The Quartermasters Division has kept a relentless tempo this quarter, successfully delivering six Reserve courses to more than 52 trainees. What makes this achievement even more impressive is that the training was conducted across reduced timings as the reservists only have 15 days to be trained in a demanding schedule that highlights both the commitment of the instructors and the determination of the reservists. By condensing high quality training into such focused delivery windows, the team has maximised efficiency without compromising standards, ensuring that every trainee leaves better equipped to meet the needs of their units.

Supply Chain Division

The Supply Chain Division (SCD) has also maintained a high tempo, with continued trade course evaluations and the successful launch of the newly restructured and redesigned Supply Chain Strategic Manager Course and Supply Chain Manager Course. Both courses were delivered for the first time this quarter and were extremely well received, marking an important milestone in the professional development pathway for Supply Chain Operators. During the summer stand period, the Division further demonstrated its commitment by delivering two Reserve courses, training a total of 21 reservists. Beyond the classroom, the team also celebrated individual success with SSgt Hunter being selected as the Chief Mechanic for the RLC Go-Karting Team, a fantastic achievement that reflects the diverse talents and passions of STW’s instructors.

Engineer Division

The Engineer Division has also had a particularly busy quarter, successfully delivering five courses to a total of 49 trainees. This consistent output reflects the team’s strong commitment to providing high-quality, specialist training that equips students with the technical skills and confidence they need to excel in their roles. The dedication of the instructors has ensured that despite the demanding tempo, trainees have benefitted from an engaging and professionally rewarding learning experience.

8 SSgt Hunter, Go-Karting Mechanic

The Troop Commanders Course

Two fantastic groups of young officers have passed the RLC Troop Commanders Course (TCC) since the last edition of the Sustainer. It has been great to see them integrate into their units and meet them at Corps events such as Ex NORTHERN STRIKE where many were receiving prizes with their teams. A huge thanks to 12 Sqn 1 Regt RLC who put on a fantastic Ex TIMBER TRUSS and pre deployment capability briefing day, whist concurrently conducting their own CYCLONE training. There has also been some fantastic work from the team in Leconfield to modernize the DST phase of the TCC, introducing two

additional nights in the field, and demanding vehicle day and night navigation exercises. Looking forward the course will integrate with 8 Sqn 27 Regt towards the end of their CYCLONE period in October. More broadly a huge thanks for the continued support across the Corps with units always putting in the time and effort to host and educate the new cohorts of Troop Commanders.

RAF Division

The RAF Division has also demonstrated remarkable dedication this quarter, training a total of 131 students. Unlike other areas, the Division pressed ahead without taking a summer standdown period, a testament to the team’s unwavering commitment and tireless work ethic. Their ability to maintain such a high throughput of students while sustaining professional standards highlights the crucial role they play in ensuring the continuous development of skilled personnel across the Wing.

Looking ahead

This quarter has showcased the breadth and depth of the Supply Training Wing’s output, from delivering high volumes of training across the Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force, to restructuring key courses and maintaining professional excellence. Each Division has contributed to developing the next generation of logisticians, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resilience to support Defence in any environment. The dedication of instructors and staff across STW continues to be the foundation of its success.

THE WHEELED MULTI-PLATFORM INSTRUCTOR (WMPI) COURSE

COURSE DETAILS

Duration: 3 weeks

Availability: Now live on TARGET

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

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

IMPORTANT NOTES

All legacy DST instructor qualifications remain valid.

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

INSTRUCTOR CONVERSION

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

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

8 12 Sqn Host TCC pre deployment

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

Between 15 and 19 September 2025, 10 personnel from RHQ The RLC were given the opportunity to deploy on Ex EAGLE LOGISTICS, a battlefield study to Krakow, Poland. On 18 September we visited Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II concentration camps. The main purpose of this visit was to learn more about what occurred there during World War II and the Holocaust. Many of us have studied the Holocaust, however it’s very different when you are personally standing in the place where those crimes against humanity were committed.

Auschwitz I, is located near the town of Oswiecim. It was originally established as a Polish Army barracks but in 1940 the Nazis took it over and repurposed it as a prison camp referred to as ‘Main Camp’. Auschwitz II - Birkenau is located near the Polish village Brzezinka, around two miles from main camp. It was built primarily as an extermination camp and construction began in October 1941. The largest of its kind, the Auschwitz - Birkenau camp was essential to carrying out the Nazi plan for the ‘Final Solution’.

Auschwitz left its mark as one of the most infamous camps of the Holocaust. The camps became fully operational over the course of nearly two years, 1940 - 1942. Auschwitz closed in January 1945 with its liberation by the Soviet army.

It is estimated that Nazi Germany deported at least 1.3 million people to the Auschwitz camp complex between 1940 and 1945. Of that 1.1 million people (mainly Jews) lost their lives in the gas chambers, through other forms of execution and as a result of starvation and illness. During the Holocaust, Auschwitz was the only concentration camp where prisoners received tattooed serial numbers. In 1941 tattoos replaced serial numbers sewn to prisoners’ uniforms. Only those prisoners selected for work were assigned a camp serial number and tattooed. Those sent straight to the gas chambers were not.

When I visited Auschwitz, I don’t think anything could have prepared me, mentally or emotionally for the overwhelming rush of feelings that came over me. The moment I

Ex EAGLE LOGISTICS

Battlefield study – Poland

By Private Shannon Campbell - RLC Corps Engagement Team

walked through the gates and saw the haunting words "ARBEIT MACHT FREI" ("Work sets you free") above the entrance to the main camp, a wave of silence hit me. It was as if the air itself carried the weight of everything that happened there. The atmosphere was so still that the only sound I could hear was the crunch of my own footsteps and those of others visiting, echoing softly across the gravel as we moved from one part of the camp to another. That quietness said more than words ever could explain.

As we walked through the different buildings, listening to the tour guide’s voice through the

headset, I could hear the emotion and passion in every word. It made the stories come alive, and for the first time, I could truly picture the reality of it all. The main things that will be imprinted on my mind forever were the personal belongings such as suitcases marked with their names the piles of hair and the worn shoes, especially a little red shoe that stood out from the rest. Each photograph we saw captured a moment of pain and humanity that words could never fully express. Later, walking through Auschwitz II – Birkenau, the vastness of the site was overwhelming. Seeing the long stretch of the train track leading into

the camp was chilling, a reminder of the countless people who arrived there, unaware of what awaited them. Standing beside one of the old railway wagons, I felt a deep sadness, trying to imagine how terrified and confused those innocent individuals must have felt in their final moments of freedom. Seeing remains of the huts and destroyed gas chambers, where the SS had tried to hide what they’d done was heartbreaking. It was a hard-hitting reminder of the scale of what happened, and it left me with a feeling I’ll never forget.

Leaving Auschwitz, I felt a heaviness that words can barely describe. It wasn’t just a sadness, it

was a deep ache, a sense of disbelief that such cruelty ever existed. Walking out through those same gates, I couldn’t help but think of the 1.1 million people who never left. Their faces, their names, their lives all reduced to ash, memories and artifacts behind glass.

Visting Auschwitz changes something inside you. It makes history feel painfully real. It forces you to confront the darkest side of humanity while reminding yourself of the fragility of compassion, of freedom, of life itself. I think that’s why it’s so important that we continue to visit; to learn and to remember to make sure we don’t repeat history.

On reflection, visiting Auschwitz as part of this battlefield study has left a lasting impact on me, both personally and professionally. I have gained a better insight into how German soldiers received and obeyed orders without question, often under the threat of death themselves. This has made me realise the importance of the moral courage within the military. As I continue my career as a junior leader in the modern army, my biggest takeaway is the responsibility to speak up when something is wrong. Leadership is not only about following orders, but also about doing what is right, even under difficult circumstances.

Credit: Sgt C Eden RLC

The Defence School of Transport

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

DST’s Contribution to Driver Training and Comms Spec Skills: Supporting the RLC Strategy Building on the Winter 24 edition of The Sustainer, where DST outlined the changes to the Driver Training Ecosystem, this article provides an update on progress to date, how these changes align with the RLC Strategy for 2030, and the next steps as we approach the April 26 transition.

Key changes Winter 24 – Winter 25

Over the past 12 months, DST with our TRAs, has been actively transforming both Driver and Comms Spec training to better meet the needs of the Corps, the Army and Defence. Significant progress has been made, including the piloting, design, and implementation of the Wheeled Multi-Platform Instructor (WMPI) course, which is delivering 192 course spaces this training year.

We have also focused on improving support for Reserves, refining how LATT and WMPI are delivered. Our first Reserve-by-design WMPI course will launch soon, and of the 568 personnel supported through Supported Distributed Training over the past year, 35 have been Reservists.

In collaboration with the LWC Business Centre, we have awarded the Licence Acquisition (LA) training contract to Hughes Driver Training, which will commence in April 26. As part of the testing element of this transition, we have confirmed nine practical LA testing locations and begun recruiting full-time Civil Servant Defence Driver Examiners (DDEs). These will support the two new centres we are acquiring from Regional Command in Catterick and

Colchester, both of which will begin delivery in April 26.

Additionally, we have introduced two new platforms, PLS and GASKET 3, and restructured Normandy Barracks to ensure we are operating within +/- 10% of our 370.4 Full-Time Establishment headcount. In the area of Comms Spec training, we have made significant strides in exploiting blended learning and technology to modernise delivery. Further details on this transformation were shared in the last edition of The Sustainer.

How the changes blend in with the RLC Strategy?

Fortuitously, these changes are fully aligned with the RLC Strategy, particularly EO3: Exploiting the Land Training System (LTS). DST supports units by ensuring access to sufficient and effective instructors to meet training and upskilling requirements. Notably, because 100% of LA (up to 12k in TY2026/7) will be delivered by our contracted partner, Hughes, Defence will not need to train parttime Defence LA Instructors or DDEs, giving critical time back to the Field Army. We also encourage units to utilise Normandy Barracks as part of Supported Distributed Training to deliver their own training. In addition, we are streamlining delivery to ensure that training is aligned with CYCLONE and recommend listening

to Gen Barry’s ‘This MeansWar, Training is Credibility’, podcast, which will provide further insights into the evolution of the LTS.

DST is also contributing to EO1: Strengthening Soldier Skills by revising our Military Skills and Professional Development programme, hosting Ex NORTHERN STRIKE, and submitting a DCSp team to Cambrian Patrol. Furthermore, we are supporting EO2: Optimising Trade Training and Professional Technical Courses by expanding our apprenticeship portfolio with the addition of a Level 3 Comms Spec apprenticeship and are delighted that we have successfully secured two FTRS staff to support DST’s outputs using ESFA funding, both of whom are RLC.

Next steps for the Apr 26 transition

Approaching the April 26 transition, there are several exciting and critical steps that will further enhance our training delivery. We are set to launch our prototype LATT app, which will significantly optimise course spaces for ITT and STT, ensuring greater efficiency and accessibility. Efforts to align and streamline Distributed Training (DT), particularly for HAZMAT, are progressing, supported by recent simplifications to funding. We remain hopeful that Prog RAPSTONE will deliver additional

8 DST has introduced training packages on the PLS 8x8 vehicle and Gasket 3 bomb disposal vehicle

simulators for DST and DT hubs, which would further strengthen our training capabilities. On the equipment front, we are making progress, with course design and piloting underway for GASKET 4 and the RTFL (Manitou) rollout. Additionally, we are preparing to respond to the Op INVECTOR and RAF Logs surge of Initial Trade Trainees around April 26, ensuring we are ready to meet this demand as effectively as possible.

These changes have been achieved despite a reduction in civil service workforce resources of a third, and while there have been challenges along the way, your solution-focused engagement has been invaluable in helping us achieve the best outcomes for everyone. DST supports a diverse range of customers, and your collaboration has played a key role in our progress.

We shared these updates at the RLC CO and RSM Cabal in October 25 and will do so through a short video in the New Year. Thank you for your continued support as we work together to deliver capability to Defence and support delivery of the RLC Strategy.

Cpl Paige Atwell Shines at WHEA World Championships with Third-Place Finish

October marked a proud moment for the Defence School of Transport as Cpl Paige Atwell took to the competition floor at the World Heavy Events Association (WHEA) World Championships, held for the first time in the UK at Dominus CrossFit Gym in York. Representing in the fiercely competitive U75kg category, Paige delivered a powerful performance across four gruelling events, ultimately securing a third-place podium finish among elite athletes from around the globe.

Having placed second at the WHEA British Championships earlier this year, Paige earned her spot at the Worlds –a prestigious event that brings together the strongest competitors in the sport. Over the course of the weekend, she tackled the Max Deadlift, Max Log Press, Farmers Carry for Time, and Stone to Shoulder, pushing herself to new heights and achieving personal bests in several disciplines.

“I’m so proud of my achievements,” Paige said after the final.“I absolutely

love the thrill of competing. It pushes me to be my best and I hope I can inspire women across Defence to discover something they’re truly passionate about, and to chase it with everything they’ve got. I came away

8 (L-R) Capt Lucas and LCpl Bastian during the Mind Sport Challenge

from this competition with new personal bests, and I’m so excited to see what’s next.”

Her journey to the World Championships has been one of dedication and resilience, but Cpl Atwell is just one of a growing community of service personnel pushing boundaries in this genre. DST is set to host the Forces Strongman and Strongwoman Qualifier Competition in Oct, offering service personnel the opportunity to compete in a range of strength events for all levels of experience and weight classes. We will bring you an update in the next edition.

And finally more spectacular achievements

SSgt Regan and Cpl Devaney pushed themselves to the limit, both mentally and physically to raise over £700 for SSAFA, Their challenge? Running 4.2 miles every hour, on the hour, for 24 hours straight. That’s a staggering 100.8 miles in total.

Meanwhile, Capt Lucas and LCpl Bastian took on a punishing 12-hour Murph & HYROX challenge, raising £359 in support of Mind.

Competing solo, they powered through a demanding mix of HYROX and Murph workouts: over 23 miles of running, hundreds of bodyweight reps, weighted carries, sled work, and power-bag lunges, thousands of metres on the ski erg and rower and a relentless series of burpee broad jumps and wall balls.

These combined extraordinary efforts not only raised funds but showcased the power of perseverance and teamwork.

8 Cpl Atwell placed third in her category at the WHEA World Championships

8 Cpl Atwell lifting 65kg in the Max Log Press

Every July, the Dutch town of Nijmegen hosts one the largest international endurance events in the world: the Four Days Marches. Tens of thousands of people come together to walk between 120200 kilometres over four days, as spectators cheer them on within a uniquely festive atmosphere.

Alongside the civilian marchers, armed forces personnel from various nations also take part. Accommodated at Camp Heumensoord, a temporary military installation on the outskirts of Nijmegen, they cover approximately 40 kilometres daily whilst carrying a minimum of 10kg. With most boots hitting the ground before sunrise each morning, the teams must reach the finish line before 1700hrs in order to remain in the event.

The British Military Contingent (BMC) annually fields between 750-850 marchers from across the Army, Navy, RAF, University Officer Training Corps (UOTC), and Cadet Forces. This year, 793 individuals were initially entered, including 130 UOTC Cadets and two members of the Australian Defence Force Academy. There was one team from the Royal Navy, three from the RAF, with the remainder from the Army and Cadet Forces. Furthermore, seven dedicated Safety Marchers supported discipline and welfare throughout the route. All participants first completed an 80km qualifier with their unit - a requirement which is met in all conditions, such as when a 2005 Queen’s Dragoon Guards team undertook theirs at night in the Iraqi desert, between patrols.

Behind the scenes, the BMC support staff play a vital role across logistics, administration, medical support, and hospitality. Composed of Regular and Reserve personnel, predominantly Army and RAF, the team’s wide-ranging expertise keeps British marchers supported. This includes rest area provision, where RLS personnel operate across multiple settings from camp to field-based locations. Those assisting along the route deploy to their designated areas for the duration of the event, whilst the OC Route Support (BMC HQ) and OIC RLS remain mobile. Activities also continue throughout the wider support chain, with personnel and

Sustaining the March

UK Rest Area Operations at the Four Days Marches in Nijmegen

By Capt E H Booth 151 Regt RLC (Nijmegen BMC HQ Staff)

supplies repositioned to meet evolving needs. In 2025, for instance, RLS staff transported over 16 tonnes of water across the four-day period.

Rest areas are essential components of endurance events. They provide participants with hydration, nourishment, and medical care to help anchor morale and sustain them through to the finish line. According to Pte Rebecca Shruer of 151 Regt RLC, who completed the Four Days Marches in 2025: “Rest areas are safe locations to rest and refuel away from the crowds.” The Marches have 2-3 communal stops for military personnel along each route, their location changing

daily. Overseen by the Dutch military, they contain designated zones for each contingent including a joint UK-US area, owing their pooling of RLS resources under the coordination of OC Route Support. Among the BMC’s RLS teams on the ground for 2025 were 154 Regiment RLC and 243 Multi-Medical Role Regiment (MMR), divided into three specific rest area teams: RA1, RA2, and RA3. The author of this article, from 151 Regiment RLC, was OC Route Support.

Beyond logistical and medical support, rest area staff carry out a number of other essential functions such as guiding and tracking teams as they enter and exit sites. This enables BMC HQ to maintain situational awareness across the route and supports downstream preparations. The system functions as a unique supply chain ecosystem: interconnected, responsive, and with mutual visibility. Operating within a wider network of stakeholders, each with their own structures and functions, RLS staff work alongside civilian agencies and other military contingents to sustain the event’s momentum. “In RA1, without building the relationships with the

8 RLS staff at the joint US/UK rest area

8 Medical teams have to be flexible to deal with surges in patients

other nationalities early on, we wouldn’t have been able to function to full capability throughout. We all assisted each other…” observed WO2 T Strachan of 154 Regt, RA1 IC and RLS 2IC.

Within this multifaceted framework, rest areas can become dynamic pressure points shaped by fluctuating footfall, time constraints, and the ripple effects of upstream activity. Sudden surges in troop arrivals are not uncommon, straining provision. Staff must be resilient as they balance continuity of care against the need to move troops forward to the finish line. The 2025 catering and medical teams, for example, benefitted from teamwork and preparation. Capt Sammi Gardiner of 243 MMR, RA2 Medical Commander, noted that her team: “adapted their medical centre layout for Day 3, following a large surge of patients on Day 2 which overwhelmed the facility. The team demonstrated flexibility and the ability to apply last minute changes to an already drilled design and process.”

Another challenging location within the network is Charlemagne Field, an additional stop towards the end of Day 4. All marching contingents gather to receive the Four Days Marches Cross, an official decoration awarded since 1909 to recognise marching proficiency. Shortly afterwards, they then set off down the ceremonial Via Gladiola into

Nijmegen town centre, where highdensity, celebrating crowds line the street and the large volume of troops immediately merges with civilian marchers. Personnel are launched in columns as part of a staggered release to help ease the possibility of congestion. For context, around 6,400 military personnel marched in 2025. Cooperation between all stakeholders thus becomes critical for maintaining flow and the event schedule, particularly within individual rest areas where RLS support continues to be provided.

The success of rest area provision during the Four Days Marches hinges on effective supply chain coordination, with BMC support staff working in close collaboration with their US counterparts and

wider stakeholders to deliver resources and services effectively. Initiative, adaptability, and developing strong interpersonal relationships are particularly important for ensuring resilience under pressure. As noted by Capt Mikhail Smethurst (BMC HQ) of East Midlands UOTC: “Against unpredictable rest area sizes, including being in city centres with no grass for securing down tents… staff work incredibly hard to deliver the RLS for Nijmegen.” The BMC’s annual success reflects not only logistical precision, but also the shared commitment to care and celebrate that defines the spirit of the Four Days Marches in Nijmegen.

8 243 MMR Regt divided into three rest area teams

8 In 2025 793 individuals entered from the UK Armed Forces

8 Some rest areas are in urban settings which presents unique challenges

The Royal Logistic Corps Angling Team has claimed victory at the 2025 Inter-Corps Championships. Held at the Glebe Fishery in the Midlands and competing against some of the best anglers from across the British Army; the RLC team demonstrated skill, determination, and teamwork to secure the top spot in a closely contested event.

The competition, hosted by the Royal Signals, saw challenging conditions that tested all participants. Heavy rain, a sharp drop in temperature, and bright sunshine on match day made the fish difficult to catch, however the RLC team rose to the occasion. After two days of practice the team devised a plan, with the unpredictable weather forcing them to adapt quickly during the match.

The final results were incredibly close, with the RLC finishing in first place with 14 points, narrowly beating the REME on 16 points. The Royal Engineers and Royal Signals tied for third place with 20 points, whilst the Infantry put in a valiant effort to finish fifth despite being one angler down.

Section Winners:

• Lake 1a: Lt Col Burrell (REME) –106lb 1oz

• Lake 1b: Sgt Moonsamy (150 RLC) – 69lb 8oz

• Lake 4: Cpl Elliot (Royal Engineers) – 96lb 12oz

• Lake 5: SSgt Bentley (Royal Signals) – 73lb 9oz

• Lake 6: Cpl Hodson (150 RLC) –84lb 9oz

• Lake 7: WO1 Knight (102 Bde (RLC)) – 66lb 1oz

RLC Crowned 2025 InterCorps Angling Champions

The road to this success began in September with the RLC Championships where the team honed its skills and built confidence for the Inter-Corps event. Despite the tough conditions on match day, the teams’ perseverance paid off. In a dramatic final 20 minutes, Sgt Moonesamy managed to add an impressive 50lb to his net, securing his section win and helping the team clinch the overall title.

This victory highlights the dedication and talent within the RLC Angling Team and is a testament to their hard work and preparation. The team would like to thank The Glebe Fishery for hosting the event and the Royal Signals for organising

such a fantastic competition. Congratulations to all the Corps that participated, and a special well done to the RLC Coarse Angling Team for bringing home the trophy!

Team:

• Sgt Daniel Moonesamy (Team Captain)

• WO1 Lee Knight

• WO2 Garry Hatton

• WO2 Paul Hardstaff

• SSgt Garry Kilner

• Cpl Dave Cline

• Cpl Will Hodson

Any personnel wishing to get involved with angling can contact Sgt Moonesamy, email: Daniel.Moonesamy850@mod.gov.uk

8 WO1 Lee Knight with his winning catch

8 Sgt Daniel Moonesamy with his winning catch

8 The competition was held at Glebe Fisheries

From Last to First 2025 has been a successful season in for the RLC’s Carp anglers. The Corps has held four separate qualifying events (QE) on a variety of waters including Broadlands near Southampton in flood conditions; Willow Park fisheries in Aldershot; the high paced Drayton reservoir and finally, Manor Farm on the Linear Fisheries complex in Oxfordshire.

Throughout these events competing anglers from all over the Corps set out to achieve the most points they could, to gain a qualifying position to represent the RLC team. This past season has proven one of the toughest yet with constant leaderboard changes throughout until the final QE, where even then multiple anglers could have achieved a qualifying position. In the end it came down to the final QE of the season at Manor Farm where a team of six were selectedSgt David Whitehouse (Captain), Cpl Mike Brown, Cpl Tom Stevens, Cpl Ben Stevens, LCpl Billy Hughes, and LCpl Matt Justice. Sgt Whitehouse and Cpl Brown also qualified to compete in the Army Individual Championships due to placing as the top two anglers within the Corps.

Despite both Sgt Whitehouse and Cpl Brown doing relatively well in the individual championships draw, the match was tough with only around 25 Carp being landed in the match by 11 of the 22 anglers competing. Sgt Whitehouse placed 9th and Cpl Brown lost two Carp which would have scored him in the top five. This would have allowed him to qualify for the Army team.

After the Individual Championships

RLC Carp Fishing

were completed, the team championships were set to take place, where each Corps represented enters three pairs to make up their team. The team had a good idea of where they wanted each pair to fish within the sections, however the draw had different ideas placing 8th, 10th and 11th out of 11. Despite being so low down in the draw the team managed to secure three average swims to fish but these were far from where the bulk of the fish had been identified as being.

Each pair was picked to fish their section based on who was best suited to deal with each swim, then the match began a short while later. After having a delayed start, Sgt Whitehouse and Cpl Brown got off to a strong start and managed to land five Carp well before dark on the first night, securing an early lead.

Working through the night the pair cemented their lead by

catching a total of 10 Carp, also placing both highly as individuals within the rankings. Unfortunately, the night was all quiet for the other two pairs.

The arrival of a new day brought a change in weather which saw the carp move off and away from Sgt Whitehouse and Cpl Brown ending up in front of Cpl Stevens’ pair. The pair took full advantage of the opportunity landing two Carp in quick succession catapulting them onto the leaderboard. Around the same time LCpl Justice landed his first Carp, boosting morale considerably across the whole team. With all three pairs now having caught, the team settled into second place overall.

The night arrived and with it so did more Carp for the Stevens pairing. They persisted working through the night putting more Carp on the bank raising them through the ranks within their section. One more Carp on the morning of the last day secured them a section win.

LCpls Justice and Hughes continued to fish hard, managing another Carp through the night which also in turn boosted their position from 9th to 7th by morning of the last day.

In the final hour of the match LCpl Hughes managed to catch a 35lb

8 Cpl “Mikey” Brown (left) and Sgt Dave Whitehouse (right), both of 47 Air Despatch Squadron

Mirror Carp which boosted his pair from 7th to 4th. Despite these efforts from all around it was uncertain to the final position of the team as the Royal Engineers had also been working hard on that final night and managed to catch several Carp boosting their rankings.

The match was concluded, and all teams made their way around to the presentation area. The presentation was announced by the Army Carp Angling Chairperson, with the Royal Armoured Corps

placing 3rd, the Corps of Royal Engineers in 2nd, and the Royal Logistic Corps the winners. At the same time the top five anglers were announced for selection to the Army team with the Royal Logistic Corps securing two places. In 3rd was Cpl Brown and 2nd Sgt Whitehouse. Unfortunately, Cpl Ben Stevens narrowly missed out on 5th place by only 1lb 1oz.

2025 has been a great year for the team with three of the six anglers being brand new to Corps Carp Angling and managing to make the team and all help achieve the win.

Cpl Stevens says: “My first year in the Corps qualifiers was a real eyeopener. I was excited and nervous, learning new waters and tactics. To make the team in the first season was a great achievement. To then win the Inter Corps Championships is a feeling I’ll never forget, the pride, the relief, and joy all rolled into one”.

LCpl Justice adds: “In my first year of the qualifiers the pressure was immense. I was nervous but excited knowing I had an opportunity to prove myself. Making the team was brilliant, it was a validation of all the hard work I’d put in. During the final, the match was hard going, surrounded by anglers all wanting to win, especially on our lake which fished even harder, we faced tough conditions. When we finally were announced the champions, it was an unbelievable moment”

In my first year of the qualifiers the pressure was immense. I was nervous but excited knowing I had an opportunity to prove myself. Making the team was brilliant, it was a validation of all the hard work I’d put in

LCpl Hughes, the only reservist member, who also qualified within his first year, comments: “In my first-year fishing within the Corps QEs I didn’t really know what to expect especially as a reservist. It was great getting involved within the four QEs and managing to make the team to represent the Corps. The match was tough going for us, but we managed to pluck away and catch the three Carp that got us 4th place within our section right at the eleventh hour. What a first year it has been, managing to qualify for the team and to then win the team championships”.

To top it all off, both Cpl Stevens have managed to achieve personal best captures at the QEs this year with Ben catching a Mirror Carp of 38.08 lbs and Tom catching a Common Carp of 33.08 lbs. Well over 20, 30 lbs plus Carp were caught within Corps matches and the Championships. As we move forward to the next season, the team will be starting in October back at Linear Fisheries on Brasenose 2. As well as our standard four QEs we will be holding training camps for the first time to hopefully help more anglers achieve greater results within their personal angling or within Corps events. The Corps is always looking for new members join, so if you wish to join follow us on Instagram @rlccarpers, or join our Facebook group, Royal Logistic Corps Carp Team.

As another busy year draws to a close for RLC Equestrian, we reflect on a successful 2025 season, with 25 RLC service personnel representing the Corps at competitions ranging from beginner level to UK Armed Forces standard.

At the pinnacle of the sport, Pte Charlotte Keers (151 Regt RLC) achieved an impressive top 10 finish in a highly competitive section of 80 riders at the Wellington International Horse Trials. Competing in the 1.15m class (CCI2*S) against professional riders, her performance was outstanding. Pte Keers currently represents the Army and has recently been selected for the UK Armed Forces Equestrian squad –a significant achievement.

This year also saw Lt Col Rebecca Darke (JSCSC) and 2Lt Brian Leung (151 Regt RLC) represent the Army in Dressage and Eventing, respectively, further showcasing the Corps' talent at the highest levels.

A special mention goes to Sgt James Dodd (DSLA), whose consistent performances across all military equestrian fixtures this year have demonstrated remarkable development and competence. His contributions have been invaluable to the team, and we look forward to seeing his continued progress in the years ahead.

The Army Development Pathway, expertly facilitated by Maj Georgie Mawbey (DSLA), has continued to support novice riders entering the competition circuit. This year, five RLC officers and soldiers competed in the Army Grassroots League (AGRL), achieving numerous placings in

RLC Equestrian

RLC Equestrian – RLC and Army Team updates

By 2Lt B Leung

Dressage and Showjumping. The Army League, which bridges the gap between AGRL and the main competition circuit, enabled more experienced riders to maintain their competitive edge using Royal Artillery Saddle Club horses.

Notably, Pte Hannah Robinson (151 Regt RLC) seized this opportunity, competing successfully in the 80cm and 85cm classes. Both leagues remain vital in

nurturing new talent for the team.

The provision of monthly clinics at the Royal Artillery Saddle Club in Larkhill, free to all RLC soldiers and officers, continues to be a popular initiative. This year, 10 new members joined the team, benefiting from the excellent training opportunities. We are deeply grateful to the RLC Central Sports Committee for their continued funding, which allows us to welcome new talent into the team, regardless of ability level.

As we look ahead to 2026, we remain committed to fostering equestrian excellence within the Corps and supporting our riders at every stage of their journey.

How to get involved

You do not have to own your own horse to get involved, nor do you have to have ridden before! We can provide all the training and opportunities for you to develop if you get the bug. There is no associated membership fee, so please get in touch with Maj Georgie Mawbey (georgina.mawbey101@mod.gov.uk) and Maj Rose Lambert (rose.lambert334@mod.gov.uk) to sign up.

Pte Charlotte Keers (151 RLC) at Wellington International Horse Trials in the 1.15m class (CCI2*S)

8 Army Grassroots League Pte Robinson (156 RLC), centre and foremost!

8

8 Sgt James Dodd (DSLA)

A busy summer 2025 season continued with the team, supported by Cornet Che Burnett of the QRH, faced the Royal Navy in a one-day Military Development Tournament at Perham Down. With the RN starting 1½ goals ahead due to handicaps, The RLC began under pressure. Early coordination was lacking, and the QRH player was still finding his rhythm. However, Chukkas two and three saw a strong turnaround.

The RLC team gelled, breaking through the RN’s solid defence led by Dean Bassett. Goals followed, enabled by improved teamwork and well-executed passes. In Chukka four, the RN capitalised on RLC fouls to claw back two goals. Despite the heat and fatigue, the RLC held firm, scoring twice more to secure the win. The final goal was a standout moment of teamwork, with three players contributing before Col Anderson MBE finished it off. The match ended 5–3 ½ in favour of The RLCa more cohesive performance than the previous tournament and a well-earned victory.

Next for the team, the Captains' and Subalterns' Tournament brought together a host of Armed Forces teams. Representing The RLC were Col Lucy Anderson MBE, Maj Nigel Prescott, Maj Nicky Hemsworth and Capt Nick Lowe. Following a strong pre-season in South Africa and success throughout the season, The RLC was placed in Division One for the

RLC Polo

8 The RLC team was placed in Div 1 at the Captains’ & Subalterns’ tournament

first time. Saturday’s match against the Household Cavalry was hardfought, but despite solid play, The RLC fell 6–1. On Sunday, they faced the Royal Artillery in the bronze final. Though The RLC showed great teamwork and determination, they were defeated 5–2, with both goals scored by Col Anderson MBE, including a standout solo run from halfway. Despite the results, the team’s performance reflected the Corps’ commitment to tradition, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Their efforts were well received by spectators and fellow players alike.

Following this tournament, the military polo community was rocked

8 Below: The RLC and RN teams at the Mil Dev Tournament

by the loss of Capt Lizzie Godwin LG, a talented HCav player who passed away recently. Her contribution to military polo will be remembered, and The RLC extends heartfelt condolences to her loved ones.

The RLC has also had a fantastic season with players in the Army team at both interservice competitions. First, the RAF took on the Army Team at Druids Lodge on 6 Jul 25 to contest the Sassoon Cup, the annual Polo challenge between the two services. In this instance unfortunately, the stronger RAF team won by 5 ½ goals to 4 and completed a rare tri service double by beating both the RN and the Army. Next was the Rundle Cup, the annual match against the Navy. The Navy started with a ½ goal handicap advantage, meaning the game couldn't end in a draw, but the Army scored first through William Cecil in the first chukka. Steve Worsley replied for the Navy in the second chukka, but it was in the third and fourth chukkas that the Army sealed the win with four more goals. Col Lucy Anderson MBE played in both matches as part of the Army Team, a fantastic achievement and great to see the RLC representing in the highest levels at Polo.

The team is now getting ready for the Arena Polo season where the intent is to build on this summer’s success. A taster session will be opened out to all in the Corps so look out for the calling notice, we want to see more RLC soldiers and officers on the pitch!

The RLC Institution exists to foster the relationship between The RLC, Industry and Academia, sharing best practice, knowledge and mutual understanding amongst logistics professionals.

There has been an important development in the continued evolution of the organisation. Following careful consideration, discussion and wider consultation, the Professional Excellence Committee has agreed to change our membership organisation's name from RLC Connect to The RLC Institution (RLCi).

This change, recognising that RLC Connect has not hit the mark as a brand, marks more than just re-branding… It marks a deliberate and strategic step forward in the support of the RLC Strategy for 2030. As we grow in influence and impact, the term Institution better reflects the seriousness and formality with which we are approaching our mission: to bring together the Corps, related industry and academia in the pursuit of professional excellence.

The new name captures our intent to play a more recognised and structured role in shaping the future of the military logistics profession - supporting innovation, thought leadership, and

The RLC Institution

collaboration at the highest levels. It aligns with our broader strategy vision and the expectations of the increasingly diverse and aspirational community of RLC soldiers that we serve.

Be assured that while the name has changed, our core values, charitable objectives, and commitment to advancing knowledge and best practice remains unchanged. The change of title became effective on 1 September 2025. We look forward to working with all of you as we take this next step in our development, and we welcome your continued engagement and support as we further strengthen the Institution's position and impact.

On 15 Oct 25, 4 Regt RLC hosted the RLC Institution’s MGL’s Leadership Symposium at Dalton Barracks, Abingdon. The event was attended by 25 delegates from industry and 66 from the RLC

community, with 39 attending online. The day began with MGL, Maj Gen Jo Chestnutt CBE opening the Symposium with an overview on leadership challenges. Comd 101 Op Sust Bde, Brig Craig Hanson CBE focused on the complexities and realities of sustaining warfighting in a multi-national Corps, building on experience gained during the execution of Ex WARFIGHTER in the US with III US Corps. Neil Jurd OBE author of a best seller leadership book - and who now runs a successful leadership training organisation - talked about leadership in the civilian environment. WO2 Ben Page from the British Army's Centre of Army Leadership at RMAS presented on the experiences/realities of war, linking to Army Leadership operations and doctrine. Simon Wheelton from Toll Government Defence examined the challenges of leadership in the commercial workplace. CO 151 Regt RLC, Lt Col Andy Balchin, discussed the leadership challenges when commanding a Reserve Regiment as opposed to a Regular Regiment.

A big thank to 4 Regt RLC for hosting an excellent Symposium.

8 Leadership Symposium Group

8 Mr Niel Jurd OBE

8 Brig Craig Hanson CBE

The RLC Museum

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

The RLC Museum’s latest temporary exhibition examines the history of The RLC and its predecessor’s relationship with one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, the Olympic Games.

Between 1908 and 2024, over 30 of our officers and soldiers have participated at the Olympic or Paralympic Games, with many winning medals for their achievements. Equipment, medals, clothing and archives are on display for this exhibition, as well as stories and accounts of the soldiers who took part. Below are just some of the soldiers represented in the exhibition.

exhibition. Both Baillon and Johnson went on to serve with the ASC during the First World War.

Musa Audu represented Nigeria at the 2004 Games held in Athens whilst serving in The RLC. He competed in the 4 x 400m relay race, where he won a bronze medal.

RLC chef WO2 Emma Blackett (nee Fowler) competed in the biathlon at the 2006 Winter Olympic Games held in Turin. She further represented Great Britain at numerous international events but also saw active service on Op Telic as a Combat Chef and became a Staff Sergeant Instructor at RMA Sandhurst.

In 1908, the fourth modern Olympic Games were held in London and featured three members of the Army Service Corps, two of whom won medals. Major Cyril Dugmore competed in the triple jump, whilst Louis Charles Baillon was a key component of the English hockey team that took home gold and remains the only Falkland Islander to do so. The standout performance went to Victor Louis Johnson, a renowned and accomplished cyclist, who won the gold medal in the 660-yard sprint. His 1908 racing bike with no gears or brakes is on display at the

The infamous 1936 Olympic Games were held in Berlin during the height of Nazi rule. Lieutenant John Sheffield, then of the Royal Horse Artillery, competed in the 400m hurdles at the newly constructed Olympiastadion. Despite not winning a medal, he was able to witness the brilliance of Jesse Owen, who famously defied Hitler’s plans to use the Games to display racial supremacy. Sheffield transferred to the RAOC after catching Polio and eventually retired as a Major General and was Corps Commandant from 1970-1974.

Corporal Barry Lillywhite Royal Corps of Transport competed in the modern pentathlon at both the 1968 Mexico City and the 1972 Munich Olympic Games. Lillywhite joined the Army as a boy soldier, enlisting into the RASC Junior Leaders Battalion before joining the RASC Mechanical Transport Section at Sandhurst. Later in his career he transferred to the Army Physical Training Corps, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel and Commandant of the Army School of Physical Training.

The Royal Logistic Corps has also been represented at the Olympic Games on a number of occasions since its formation in 1993. WO2

Corporal Stephen Cox is an accomplished rower who competed in the 2024 Games in Paris representing his home nation of Zimbabwe. He couldn’t speak highly enough of the support he was provided by The RLC, which allowed him to train five hours every day, in order to reach peak fitness for the games.

Second Lieutenant Kerenza Bryson is both a qualified Doctor and a reserve Officer with 165 Port & Maritime Regiment. She competed at the 2024 Games in the modern pentathlon eventually finishing in ninth place despite breaking an Olympic record in her heat. Although she didn’t win an Olympic medal on this occasion, she was crowned the individual modern pentathlon European Champion in 2024 and has her sights set on Los Angeles 2028. The RLC Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday, 09:30-16:00 (last entry 15:30) with the exhibition on display until September 2026.

From Front Lines to Finish Lines: The RLC and its predecessors at the Olympic Games.

8 Junior RSM Barry Lillywhite

Image: (RLC Museum)

8 2Lt Kerenza Bryson

8 Louis Charles Baillon (centre)

Image: Falkland Islands Museum and National Trust)

Image: RLC Media

Ex NORTHERN STRIKE

Exercise Northern Strike 25 (Ex NS) is The RLC’s annual military skills competition. Hosted by 25 Regiment RLC at the Defence School of Transport, Leconfield, Ex NS saw 54 teams from across the Corps compete in a series of activities which tested physical robustness while placing a greater emphasis than before on cognitive agility, tactical decision-making, and leadership under pressure. It’s designed to reflect the demands of the modern battlespace and pushes the teams to demonstrate adaptability, cohesion and operational effectiveness.

The activities included an 8km loaded march, designed to replicate an advance to contact carrying personal equipment. Along the route of the march were various obstacles the teams have to cross. After the 8km march, various military skills stands test soldiers’ military knowledge. These range from Counter Improvised Explosive Device (CIED), Chemical Biological Radioactive and Nuclear (CBRN) to Battlefield Casualty Drills (BCD), a Communication Information Specialist (CIS) stand and the 25m live firing range.

The final activity consists of a 2km best effort run which is designed to test the soldier’s physical ability. The final kilometre includes the carriage of a 100kg stretcher with teams crossing the finish line to the RLC Corps of Drums playing them in for the final 100m. The overall winning team was the 13 Air Assault Support Regiment (Mixed Team).

The Category winners were:

• Male Team Reserves - 157 Regt

• Male Team Regular - 17 P&M Regt

• Female Team Reserves - 165 P&M Regt

• Female Team Regular - 1 Regt

• Mixed Reserve - 154 Regt

• Mixed Regular - 13 AASR

• Veterans Reserve - 165 P&M Regt

• Veterans Regular - 13 AASR

• Best Military Stands - DM Kineton (Mixed)

• Best Shot - 1 Regt (Mixed)

• Fastest 8km - 13 AASR (Vets)

• Fastest 2km - 13 AASR (Vets)

• RMT Winner - 17 P&M Regt (Males)

• President’s Trophy - Pte Locklin

1 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

BICESTER

CO: Lt Col D Harrison • Adjt: Capt F Copland

Following a well-deserved summer leave period, 1 Regiment RLC returned in September, ready for a busy term of improving as warfighters in the lead up to Ex IRON TITAN. Despite the busy main effort, there was still time for a regimental family’s day and adventurous training.

After a break of some years, 5 Sep 25 saw the return of the 1 Regiment family’s day (Rhino Day). Bringing together all ranks, it offered a well-deserved opportunity to recognise the achievements of the past year and strengthen the bonds that make the regimental family so special. Capability stands, fairground rides, and live performances entertained families throughout the day, while food stalls serving cuisines from around the world showcased the diverse cultures represented within the Regt. The day was a true celebration of teamwork and community and recognised the important role the families of the Soldiers and Officers play in allowing the Regt to succeed as warfighters. As night fell, the event moved into the Bicester Garrison gymnasium for an evening event with music and dancing, again to live performances. After a successful return, Rhino Day is set to grow year on year, and Rhino Day 26 is already set to be a day to remember!

As the Regt continues to relentlessly drive towards improving as warfighters, it welcomed representatives from across the Deep Recce Strike (DRS) Brigade, both from the HQ and subordinate units, for a

• RSM: WO1 A

Wardle

collaborative working group. Bringing together G4 personnel from across the Bde, the event collaboratively encouraged coherence and tackled the conceptual challenges the Regt faces as it takes on the new role of supporting the DRS. This work continued as the Regt deployed on Ex IRON TITAN in November and tested the products of this event. Furthermore, in preparation for the exercise, the Regimental Training Wing, qualified the Regt in the new PLS vehicles and the Protected Mobility fleet, enabling IRON TITAN to be the largest exercise deployment of the Regt in recent memory.

In a break from this training, the first two weeks of October saw the Regt conduct a two-week package of Adventurous Training, using the Low Gillerthwaite Lodge, in the Lake District. The package saw a

large proportion of the Regt enjoy multi-activity training including mountain-biking and mountaineering. The training aimed to challenge both physical endurance and mental resilience whilst developing teamwork in a demanding yet inspiring environment. Led by instructors from across the Regt, the mountain biking developed confidence and control on increasingly technical routes, whilst the mountaineering days saw everyone summiting and descending Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, from the Wasdale Head side, in just over four hours. Whilst the remoteness of Low Gillerthwaite provided the challenge of evenings without access to phones or WiFi, the groups rediscovered the joys of conversation and board games. A successful package, 2026 will see AT in 1 Regt grow, with two ambitious overseas expeditions to Spain and the USA for rock climbing and skydiving.

8 The Officers’ Mess set up for the DRS Working Group in October

8 Members of 12 Sqn enjoying challenging adventurous training in the Lake District

4 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps ABINGDON

CO: Lt Col M Brown • Adjt: Capt D Brandy • RSM: WO1 A Smith

CABRIT 16: Adapting to the Modern Battlespace

In today’s operating environment, dispersion has become increasingly vital to counter threats such as small Uncrewed Aerial Systems (sUAS). In response, 4 Regiment RLC has focused on testing and refining dispersion tactics, shaping how a Close Support Regiment should operate in a rapidly evolving battlespace.

On 1 Mar 25, personnel from 4 Close Support Squadron and 33 General Support Squadron deployed on Op CABRIT 16 to Estonia, forming the Theatre Support Squadron (TSS) in support of the 1 MERCIAN Battlegroup. As part of NATO’s Forward Land Forces, the UK leads the framework in Estonia, with CABRIT representing a sixmonth commitment.

The TSS was a diverse formation, comprising personnel from two services, eight cap badges, 12 units, and 24 trade groups - many working together for the first time. Led by 4 CS Sqn SHQ, the TSS provided second-line support to 1 MERCIAN BG and 1 YORKS SU in Poland, later expanding to support 4 Bde during Ex HEDGEHOG.

Throughout the summer, 4 Regt personnel used the deployment to train, develop, and modernise, drawing on lessons from the contemporary environment. Despite a demanding schedule of CABRIT-directed tasks and exercises - including support to two Battlegroup exercises and the 1st Estonian Brigade - the TSS

prioritised internal training, allowing troops and departments to conduct their own exercises.

CABRIT 16 featured major multinational exercises such as BOLD EAGLE and HEDGEHOG, with over 15,000 troops operating across Estonia. The TSS was one of the few subunits across Defence to simultaneously plan, conduct operations, and execute training. This enabled 4 Regt to refine its SOPs in real time, adapting to modern threats.

Two key examples of this innovation were Exercises DYNAMIC PISCES 3 and 4. Fuel &

General Transport Troop led DP3, a troop-level exercise focused on operating in a battlefield contested by sUAS. The troop experimented with camouflage, concealment, dispersion, and deception, navigating Estonia’s marshy terrain and operating in isolated harbours, disconnected from the chain of command.

DP4 marked a CABRIT first: Supply Troop conducted a dispersed logistic supply exercise, with elements spread miles apart. This set a precedent for future supply operations, embedding dispersion as a core principle. Troops also engaged with simulated civilians, testing their ability to gather information and de-escalate tense situations.

Preparing for CABRIT 17

Back in the UK, 60 CS Sqn and the remainder of 33 GS Sqn began preparing for CABRIT 17. Their predeployment training (PDT) commenced with a Live Firing Tactical Training (LFTT) in July, supported by the Land Training System (LTS), which provided protected time for focused preparation.

Training culminated in Exercise IRON CYCLONE, held on Salisbury Plain in support of the RTR Battlegroup. This was the first opportunity for personnel to operate as part of the CABRIT 17 TSS. Over nine days, they conducted DPs, managed supplies, and validated their readiness for the challenges of a winter deployment.

8 Ex DP3 saw troops navigate Estonia’s marshy terrain

8 Ex DP4 simulated engagement with civilians

6 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps DISHFORTH

CO: Lt Col B Watts-Evans • Adjt: Capt O Pearman • RSM: WO2 D McQuillan

As 6 Regiment RLC rebalances its fleet and resets its people from support to the Allied Reaction Force (ARF), focus is now shifting on its upcoming commitments within the EA2. Utilising two unique opportunities to build fieldcraft and trade competence, there are two sub-units currently deployed in BATUK and supporting the Handling and Processing (HAP) element of Op INTERFLEX; but time is still found to support military skills exercises and adventurous training, where many people and teams have excelled.

The Regt has also recently said farewell to Lt Col Jen Lockett, who is leaving the service after more than 20 years, with a combined Officers’, WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess Dinner. The Regt welcomes Lt Col Bev Watts-Evans as the new CO.

62 Squadron

62 Sqn has taken charge of the HAP, supported by the wider Regt and the mobilisation of 20 Army Reservists from 158 Regt RLC. This tri-service operation has provided many personnel with their first experience working alongside other services and NATO partner nations.

The HAP is responsible for processing and equipping Armed Forces Ukraine personnel (AFUs) and for training in the UK. With each AFU member receiving approximately £3,000 worth of kit, the biggest challenge has been the inventory management of over 2 million items, equating to a value of £55+ million.

This deployment has provided our personnel with an appreciation of operational scale, volume and scope that cannot be replicated by any exercise. Unlike regular logistical channels, where the unit holds the dependencies’ stores and issues as required; the HAP demands materiel directly from Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), requiring precise forecasting to account for a 12-weeklead time. This has given LSS personnel

invaluable experience managing a complex account and a huge warehouse. For all SP involved, it has been a privilege to be the first, and last, interaction that AFUs have with the British Armed Forces, and to support a nation fighting for its survival.

64 Squadron

64 Sqn is focused on preparing for Ex RHINO STORM in 2026. The Sqn has developed several training packages, including a two-week GPMG cadre to build competence and confidence on the weapon across the Regt.

In October and November, they conducted a four-day urban exercise at Whinny Hill alongside LCpl ALDP training. Beyond military skills, 64 Sqn has taken the lead in organising the Regimental Boxing Team, with fighters training three times a day for a Regimental Boxing Night vs 3 Medical Regiment in December.

32 Squadron

32 Sqn is deployed in Kenya to support the 1st Bn Welsh Guards Battlegroup during Exercise HARAKA STORM. Its primary task was the in-load of the battlegroup, delivering 47 loads to the FOB and COB over a gruelling seven-hour journey from Nyati Barracks. Once established, the Sqn provided routine resupply of water, fuel, and combat supplies across challenging road conditions, which tested and developed drivers and packet commanders. For their efforts, four personnel from 32 Sqn received coins from the CO of 1 Welsh Guards. In addition to its operational duties, the Sqn engaged with local communities, volunteering to paint a school. 100% of Sqn personnel participated in Adventurous Training, including mountain biking and rockclimbing foundation courses, as well as multi-activity packages.

Looking ahead

6 Regt is preparing for a EA2 focused 2026, supporting both the 7th Light Mechanised Brigade and the 4th Light Brigade in the Brigade Support Group. This training will then culminate with the Regt contributing elements to Op CABRIT, forming a Theatre Supply Squadron. Our purpose is clear with exciting challenges ahead!

8 Community Engagement in BATUK –32 Sqn engaging with the local community whilst on Ex HARAKA STORM

8 White water rafting in BATKUK –part of the multi-activity AT package SP experienced exhilarating white-water rafting

9 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps HULLAVINGTON

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

9 Regiment RLC has continued to operate at pace throughout the third quarter of 2025, supporting defence outputs and deployments across the globe. The past few months have been extremely busy, with Regt’s emphasis on CYCLONE, culminating with its deployment on Ex AUSTERE SHIELD.

Ex AUSTERE CYCLONE PANTHER

As part of the CYCLONE training series and a lead-up to Ex AUSTERE SHIELD, 9 Regt showcased readiness, preparedness, and Special to Arm expertise spanned over two weeks and multiple training areas across the UK. The Regt refined and improved foundation skills, as well as integrating new ones, such as, Suppliers managing a dispersed FSA, Petroleum Operators responding to drone attacks, General Transport drivers navigating challenging terrain, and RHQ elements conducting tactical relocations to increase survivability and lethality. Lessons were learned, and SOPs sharpened at all levels in preparation for the Regt’s validation on Ex AUSTERE SHIELD.

Ex AUSTERE SHIELD 25

Ex AUSTERE SHIELD 25 (AS 25) is one of a series of exercises led by the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) to strengthen alliances, deter threats, and reassure citizens in JEF member nations. Alongside Ex

FOREST GUARDIAN (3 SCOTS), Ex

AS 25 formed part of Op TARASSIS - a large-scale series of Land, Sea, and Air activities across Norway, Finland, Latvia, and the Baltic Sea in September and October. 9 Regt deployed as the OF4 TEG, comprising of two composite subunits, one REME Coy, and augmentees from across 104 Bde and the Field Army. In a challenging and austere environment, the TEG enabled 8 Engr Bde’s entry and exit into theatre and provided second line support as they conducted a series of engineering tasks around Latvia. The exercise saw 9 Regt validated to Level D, ensuring it maintains its VHR enabling capability for Defence.

Ex NORTHERN STRIKE

9 Regt submitted two teams, male and mixed, that performed

8

exceptionally well in the recent competition Ex NORTHERN STRIKE in Oct 25. Both teams performed to a high standard, demonstrating flexibility, cohesion, and resilience. Special note to Pte Charles for having the fourth highest result on the range on the day. The competition provided valuable lessons and reinforced operational effectiveness in a complex and dynamic environment.

Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL

At the beginning of October, eight members of 9 Regt participated in Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL, winning the coveted gold medal. Under the leadership of Lt Rob Blackman, the team managed to complete their beat-up training in a little under four weeks, a significant achievement within such a short timeframe. This can be attributed to the excellent leadership and coaching provided to the team, along with the personal grit and determination shown throughout the buildup and during the competition. Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL remains a constant in the regimental training calendar and provides a fantastic opportunity for our soldiers to prove the high levels of competence.

8 The Ex CAMBRIAN-PATROL team collect their gold medals

A 9 RLC team on course at Ex NORTHERN STRIKE

10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment

ALDERSHOT

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

Over the past year, 10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (10 QOGLR) has demonstrated a clear commitment to development and adaptability in response to the evolving threats faced by the British Army. This progress has extended beyond technological advancements, with a strong emphasis on investing in personnel. The Regt ensures its people remain highly trained, flexible, and capable of operating alongside partners and other force elements. Throughout, it has maintained the unique morale and identity that define its character, making this a dynamic and impactful year.

The Regt’s operational readiness has been evident in its global deployments. In April, two Troops from 1 Supply Squadron were active on opposite sides of the world: 94 Troop (attached to 28 Squadron) deployed on Operation HEDGEHOG in Estonia, while Seremban Troop (attached to 27 Regiment RLC) participated in Exercise WARFIGHTER in Texas. These deployments involved complex logistical movements across land, sea, and air, and highlighted the Regt’s ability to integrate seamlessly into different command structures. Their contributions enabled 3 (UK) Division to operate effectively alongside international partners, reinforcing 10 QOGLR’s global relevance and capability.

Innovation has played a central role in enhancing the Regt’s readiness. 36 Squadron QOGLR has led the way with the Adaptive Caterer project, introducing a fully functional field kitchen housed in an ISO container. This initiative significantly reduced setup time from hours of manual labour to mere minutes using the Enhanced Palletised Loading System. The project was successfully validated during two major exercises and represents a leap forward in agile and modular sustainment.

Digital transformation has also been embraced, with updates to Logistics Information Systems and the integration of Starlink assets to improve communications. 1 Squadron QOGLR alone has rewritten over 20 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), covering areas such as CounterUncrewed Aerial Systems (CUAS), deception operations, communications setup, and remote security. These changes demonstrate a proactive approach to modern warfare.

Given the increasing threat posed by Uncrewed Aerial Systems, 10 QOGLR has taken a leading role within 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade’s Tactical

Innovation Group, contributing to the assessment and development of CUAS capabilities.

At the heart of all these advancements are the Regt’s personnel. Their development, both professional and personal, has been a priority. While many have deployed on operations worldwide, those remaining in the UK have excelled in other areas, winning Army-level competitions in Taekwondo, Badminton, Basketball, and more. Adventurous Training has also featured prominently, with expeditions including skydiving in California and a multi-activity package in Bavaria involving 60 personnel. These achievements reflect the talent, drive, and spirit of the soldiers who form the core of 10 QOGLR.

The Regiment’s unique Gurkha identity continues to underpin its cohesion and morale. Cultural events such as the Kasam Khane Parade and Dashain celebrations were conducted with pride and reverence. These occasions serve as powerful reminders of tradition and unity.

As the Regt looks ahead to 2026, it does so from a position of strength, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

8 S Tp on Ex WARFIGHTER (Texas)

8 Comd 10 QOGLR sky diving in California

11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal & Search Regiment RLC

DIDCOT

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

As part of President Trump’s recent state visit to the UK, 621 EOD Squadron deployed various personnel from across the Sqn in support of Op LIBERTY, a policeled, multi-agency task force entrusted with providing security during the visit. The Sqn’s role was to provide EOD and ECM cover whilst the US President was hosted by HM King Charles III and Sir Keir Starmer at Windsor Castle and Chequers, respectively. This assistance was requested as part of 11 EOD & Search Regiment's enduring support of police forces across the country under current Military Aid to the Civil Authorities (MACA) Op TAPESTRY.

Although the Sqn is well-versed in high-profile events, having recently provided a similar level of support during the state visit of President Macron, there was a clear understanding from the outset that complacency would not be tolerated. This meant, among other things, that all venues were to be revisited and specific AORs determined alongside Thames Valley Police and US Secret Service (USSS) counterparts. The Sqn also delivered a capability demonstration to provide mutual understanding and integration across the USSS EOD and Police CBRN response teams.

Once the operation commenced, the team was forward based at key locations to provide an immediate response capability. Owing to the nature of the visit, various capabilities were available to

provide an appropriate response whilst maintaining as low a profile as possible. This was evident when the team was alerted to a suspicious item in a nearby location during routine police searches. Elements of the EOD team responded swiftly and discreetly to avoid causing panic among the public. The suspicious item was quickly investigated and, thankfully, turned out to be a false alarm.

During Op LIBERTY, there were numerous instances of private drone pilots entering the restricted airspace, which presented a new set of challenges across the multiple agencies aligned to the operation. EOD teams were required to work seamlessly with Met and Thames Valley Police Counter Drone operations alongside specialist C-UAS capabilities from the RAF and RA.

8 EOD team integrated with the Police, FRS and Ambulance CBRN teams

Although this is a new challenge within the UK, there has been a well-documented increase in drone activity overseas, and lessons learnt from Op LIBERTY will directly influence MACA and Warfighting EOD tasks in the future. As this threat is constantly evolving, specific training had been developed and undertaken by all members of the team prior to the event. This training has also been incorporated into the ongoing EOD training undertaken by the Sqn. It involved liaising with SMEs and gaining knowledge of cutting-edge technology to improve the Sqn's understanding of the various threats posed, increase operational effectiveness, and minimise risk to all involved.

Despite a busy schedule, the team had the opportunity to witness the striking displays arranged to welcome the President and First Lady. The visit began with a flypast by the Red Arrows over Windsor, featuring trails of red, white and blue. Later, the team had front-row seats as the Red Devils Parachute Display Team descended into Chequers, carrying both the Union Flag and Stars and Stripes.

The operation was an overwhelming success, with the Prime Minister delivering a message expressing his gratitude for the hard work and dedication shown by all involved. He reiterated how historic a second state visit is and the impact it has on bilateral relations.

8 EOD Team integrated with a C-UAS Giraffe radar team

13 Air Assault Support Regiment RLC COLCHESTER

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

Ex TOTEMIC – 63 Squadron

From late-night calls to movement within hours, TOTEMIC rehearsed a crisis no-notice mobilisation of 16AABCT’s AMBG1 with 2 PARA currently the lead. For 13AASR, it was the chance to prove the Regt’s unifying purpose of being ‘always ready’. 63 Squadron as the affiliated CS Sqn was on point to enable deployment to the JAMC. This involved the full spectrum of logistic enabling activity: inspecting vehicles, fuelling, bundling weapons, issuing ammunition and elements of the PEP. Convoys were marshalled from Colchester, freight prepared and kit checked to assure deployment standard. The BCT’s speed of response relied on 13AASR’s reaction and enabling preparedness, with resupply chains in place before 2 PARA could deploy; 300 vehicles and 1,000 personnel were rapidly generated. 13AASR transitioned from barracks to operational posture, proving its ability to synchronise and mobilise. Every soldier played a part. As Comd 16AABCT said: “We have done more than previously, because we are preparing for war.” For 13AASR, it reaffirmed a truth that readiness is not a target, but a state of mind.

Ex SABER JUNCTION –

15 Squadron QOGLR 15 Squadron recently deployed to the Joint Multinational Readiness Centre in Hohenfels, Germany on Ex SABER JUNCTION (SJ) alongside 7,600 personnel from 15 other allied nations. Working under the

US 83rd Combat Sustainment

Support Battalion (CSSB) and alongside the 18th CSSB, 15 Squadron developed interoperability in their core role through lifting US equipment, integrating communications and convoys with their counterparts from the US alongside resupplying units from the Netherlands. Ex SJ provided the Sqn with a great opportunity to develop TTPs and interoperability ahead of assuming readiness and AMBG1 in 2026.

Ex MOBILITY GUARDIAN –

47 Air Despatch Squadron

47AD Sqn participated in Ex MOBILITY GUARDIAN with a UK ATLAS A400M successfully despatching NATO containers onto Kunsan Assault DZ, South Korea.

This was the first time this system has deployed from a UK airframe, having been rigged by the USMC, modified and overseen by JADTEU AD test and evaluation teams, and

Sqn and RAF

then dropped by a 47 AD crew to a South Korean partner force. A significant interoperability achievement with the UK as the gold standard for aerial delivery. This is a testament to the trade knowledge of our personnel and has pioneered the route for greater interoperability with NATO and partners.

24 Squadron

24 Squadron was the lead for 13AASR’s deployment on Ex COBRA WARRIOR 25. The Arrivals Departures Airfield Control Group (ADACG) - consisting of 2IC 24 Sqn, a Driver Comms Spec, along with a Forward Repair Team (FRT) from 8 (Para) Field Coy and a Heli Team from 63 Sqn - launched from RAF Brize Norton to conduct Rapid Air Landing into Carlisle Lake District Airport. The ADACG are central to 16AABCT’s Joint Forcible Entry capability and become the ‘centre of the hourglass’ controlling all FE arriving by air. With the force package deployed the focus then switched to supporting 1RGR’s Heli-Assault onto a nearby training area with the 63 Sqn rigging Under Slung Loads and 8 (Para) Field Coy conducting forward repair of vehicles and equipment.

8 Bonet brief on Op TOTEMIC

8 47AD

personnel on Ex MOBILITY GUARDIAN in South Korea

17 Port & Maritime Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

SOUTHAMPTON

CO: Lt Col T Goodall MBE • Adjt: Capt B Capon • RSM: WO1 R Brown

17 Port and Maritime Regiment RLC continuously prepares to deploy at short notice to support worldwide Port Task Groups and the TEG OF4 HQs generating a plethora of activity. Currently circa 80 troops are deployed across 13 countries supporting operations, exercises, support to experimentation and training tasks. A range of deployments over the last couple of months include SP deploying aboard RFA LYME BAY as part of Ex ARCTIC TIDE in Norway, Dive Troop’s participation on Ex FUELS PLUS in BFC.

Op SHELLPROOF saw SP deploy to Scotland in support of Defence Munition Protection. Closer to home, Ex SEAHORSE WRENCH saw the Workshop deploy to Bramley to conduct collective trade training in the field. The collaboration of 165 P&M Regt RLC conducting their annual trade training with 17 P&M Regt showcased adaptability, practical engineering skills, and integration of Regular and Reserve troops.

The Sea Mounting Centre (SMC) has had 52 sailings so far this year. Supporting nine different operations and exercises, three GiK, as well as the usual Falkland Island Resupply and East of Suez sailings.

With a permanent presence in BFSAI and BFC; Cyprus MARPOL training emphasised environmental protection of the Western Sovereign Base Areas. Crews practised how to hold the line against contamination at sea, sharpening their confidence to respond immediately, building professional pride amongst those deployed. The last few months in BFSAI have seen 460 Port Troop and East Cove Military Port working towards CBF’s direction on Readiness to fulfil the mission of DETER any potential aggression against BFSAI overseas territories. This saw SP from the Regt working on the basics of outpost military operations through six key components: Operate, Medicate, Communicate, Fight, Move, and Understand.

On the home bank, the Unit hosted a visit on behalf of 104TSB from the Commander of the US 16th Sustainment Brigade. The visit involved briefs on the Field Army Support Strategy along with 104TSB unit capability briefs and a capability demonstration from 17 P&M Regt showcasing what the Bde offers to the TEG and can offer to our NATO Partners.

Attendance at the New Forest & Hampshire County Show allowed the Regt to showcase its capabilities

whilst engaging with local community. Alongside a plethora of community engagement events the Regt has attended connecting with crucial partners such as ABP and Red Funnel. The Regt is also delighted to re-sign the New Forest Covenant later this year.

The Army Maritime Mural was opened by the MGL in the All-Ranks Diner. Commissioned as a tribute to the proud and storied legacy of Army Maritime, it honours the contributions of the Regt and the many units that have shaped its history. It also serves to strengthen the enduring bond with the Regt’s distinguished veteran community. The mural vividly illustrates three major operations: Op OVERLORD, Op CORPORATE and Op GRANBY.

As part of an arduous Adventurous Training expedition, a team of 18 from 17 P&M Regt visited Arctic Command prior to setting off on Ex ARCTIC SEAHORSE. Completing the 160km Arctic Circle Trail, there were lots of sore feet but high morale from this massive accomplishment. Most recently, our Military Skills Team completed the Fan Dance, a gruelling 15-mile route march in the Brecon Beacons, attained Male Team Winners and best at the RMT event on Ex NORTHERN STRIKE and were awarded bronze standard at Cambrian Patrol.

8 Members of 17 P&M about to set off on Ex ARCTIC SEAHORSE Boat during Comd 16th SB’s visit

8 The Best Male winning team at Ex Northern Strike

8 A MEXE preparing to cross deck with an Army Work Boat and Combat Support Boat during Comd 16th SB’s visit

27 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

ALDERSHOT

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

8 Fuel & General Transport Squadron

During a focused week-long exercise at 27 Regiment RLC’s Training Wing, 8 F&GT Sqn participated in the Interim Combined Arms Simulations (Deployable) [ICAVs(D)], led by junior NCOs. The exercise enhanced operational readiness through realistic scenarios, reinforcing leadership and tactical skills.

Troops conducted convoy movements, tactical drills, and SOP refinement, with night driving adding complexity and testing low-visibility navigation. INLOAD and OUTLOAD procedures were a key focus, ensuring rapid and secure movement of CSUPs across the battlespace.

A major innovation was the introduction of drone SOPs, including HAWKEYE and LONGBOW TTPs, improving concealment and vehicle survivability. The exercise strengthened individual skills

and collective cohesion, ensuring 8 Sqn remains Ready, Relevant, and Integrated.

7 Fuel & General Transport Squadron

Following Ex WARFIGHTER, 7 F&GT Sqn focused on closing down and accounting for all equipment, including returning loaned assets and redistributing items across the UK. This complex logistical effort showcased the Sqn’s professionalism and teamwork.

Preparation for Ex TITAN STORM saw troops deploy to Eelmoor Training Area for a dismounted field exercise, reinforcing core soldiering skills such as camouflage, section attacks, field admin, and navigation. This back-to-basics training reinvigorated the team and ensured mission readiness for future operations.

19 Tank Transporter Squadron –Op CABRIT 16

In March 2025, 1+27 SP from 19 Sqn deployed to Estonia on Op CABRIT 16 as the HET Troop within the Theatre Support Squadron. Starting with Ex YMIR, the troop covered 16,200km to support 15 US Army AFVs in 1 MERCIAN’s validation exercise. Over the tour, the troop completed 91,000km across seven NATO exercises and 201 vehicle moves. Ex HEDGEHOG was a highlight, with 58 armoured vehicles moved across 25,000km, supporting UK, US, and Estonian forces and transporting over £226 million in equipment.

Interoperability was tested during Ex WARPAINT, supporting a concept trial for global AFV airlift within 96 hours. Between exercises, the troop refined TTPs and SOPs, feeding lessons into regimental doctrine ahead of Ex IRON TITAN. The deployment offered professional growth and built confidence through real-world operations.

77 Headquarters Squadron

77 HQ Sqn continues to support the Regt’s outputs, recently taking over administration of 91 Sqn Rear Operating Group, expanding its workforce and trade coverage. The Sqn led GOC 3 (UK) Div visit to 27 RLC, delivering a capability display at Eelmoor Training Area, including a HET stand and field lunch. This showcased the Regt’s capabilities and allowed the GOC to provide strategic guidance.

The Regimental Training Wing is delivering 101 OSB’s Live Fire Tactical Training at Warcop, supporting CFA’s intent to double lethality. Training includes dismounted section attacks and mounted GPMG ranges from OES SV top cover.

Looking ahead, the Sqn is preparing for its role in CYCLONE and TITAN FTXs and exploring opportunities for Alpine and Nordic skiing - rewarding hard work with representation at Regimental and Corps events.

8 7 Sqn reinforced its core soldiering skills on Eelmoor Training Area

8 8 Sqn JNCOs led the Sqn’s participation in ICAVs(D)

29 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

SOUTH CERNEY

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

With continued support to worldwide overseas deployments alongside in-camp training, sport and exercises, it’s been another high tempo period for 29 Regiment RLC.

With an increasing focus on squadron level training, 80 Postal and Courier Squadron has supported its busy deployments schedule with both ITR and trade training exercises. A key part of the calendar was Ex CENTURION SWIFT 2 - this year’s iteration of trade training in the field. Building on last year’s Ex CENTURION SWIFT, this comprised setting up and running Field Post Offices (FPOs) over multiple training areas, to simulate the provision of Postal and Courier services to a deployed battlegroup in the field. With training covering road moves in a contested environment, handling of both mail and secure courier packages and the defence and closedown of an FPO in a contested environment, the week was used to develop SOPs and train the Sqn’s soldiers in a new environment, pushing the trade towards the Army’s warfighting focus.

The changes in the Postal and Courier Trade were put into focus with the Annual Postal and Courier trade convention, bringing postal and courier operators from both Cyprus and Northern Ireland to South Cerney, whilst remotely linking with those deployed from Brunei to the Falklands. With presentations from across the trade, including technical advancements and the trade’s future direction, the day was crowned by the awarding of two Conductor’s coins to WO2 Robinson and Pte Barton, as well as the inaugural Postie of the Year award awarded to LCpl Manthorpe. A great achievement for all she has done, this is now the highest honour available for Postal and Courier Operators at OR8 and below.

On top of trade training, 80 Sqn also ran a fantastic week of AT at the RLC Lodge in the Lake District. With soldiers taking part in both hill

walking and mountain biking across the lakes, it was muchneeded time off for some of the soldiers in the Sqn to relax together before the summer standdown period and the move to the next operational rotation from the start of October.

Across the wider Regt the Movement Control Squadrons have been busy with more deployments and the continued operation of the Joint Air Mounting Centre here at South Cerney. 50 Squadron has worked to optimise the staffing requirements in the JAMC to further their capability and improve the soldiers’ weekly timetables, with updated training and a better

work-life balance for everyone aligned.

Furthering interoperability, 59 Squadron deployed Movement Controllers to Canada to assist 4 Canadian Movement Control Unit with this year’s Operation BOXTOP, resupplying CFS Alert in Greenland with vital supplies from Montreal. This has developed the trade’s capability learning to operate further with partner forces, skills which will be used again in the future.

Alongside all operational outputs, two 29 Regt Centurions who competed earlier in the year in DefOSC, were selected to further represent the British Army Combat Shooting Team (BACST) at the Cyprus Operational Shooting Competition. Forming part of two, six person teams they put on an outstanding display and the BACST dominated, securing both first and second place in a field of eight teams.

The Regt looks forward to a busy autumn period with continued support to global operations and the furthering of multinational partnerships.

8 An FPO in action receiving Defence Courier Services on Ex CENTURION SWIFT 2

8 59 Sqn’s Movement Controllers with their Canadian counterparts in Greenland

20 Transport Squadron The Royal Logistic Corps

LONDON

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

Ceremonial State Visits

This period, 20 Transport Squadron RLC has delivered excellence at home and overseas, representing the Corps on prestigious national events - from the King’s Birthday Parade to the French and US Presidential state visits. Overseas the Sqn has been developing resilience through Adventurous Training (AT).

Earlier this year, the Sqn played a pivotal role in supporting the State Visit of the President of France and on another occasion the President of the United States of America. These were significant diplomatic events on the national calendar. As part of the United Kingdom’s ceremonial welcome, 20 Transport Squadron was responsible for planning and delivery of complex transport tasks across London. The Sqn provided the logistical backbone that enabled the smooth coordination of personnel and vehicles.

Operating within tight security frameworks, the Sqn worked closely with partners across Defence, the Metropolitan Police and LONDIST. The Sqn’s seamless execution ensured that the Armed Forces’ contribution to these state visits was delivered to the highest standard.

Ex COCKNEY CHALLENGE 25

Following this busy period, the Sqn turned its focus to developing leadership, teamwork and resilience through an AT package in

Cyprus. Against the backdrop of the Troodos Mountains and Mediterranean coastline, personnel took part in a dynamic multi activity programme that included mountain biking, hill walking and waterbased training.

The activity was designed not only to push physical limits but also to strengthen interpersonal bonds within the Sqn as personnel are often sent on individual tasks and rarely work as a collective. It was great to be away from the pressures of daily operations. Importantly, the package was great for supporting mental health and wellbeing, offering a valuable opportunity for

8 Cyprus provided the perfect setting for the Sqn’s annual AT package

reflection and growth; setting SP up for a return to barracks refreshed and ready for the busy Autumn ceremonial season.

Battlefield Study: Bastogne to Arras Nineteen members of the Sqn set off for Belgium to learn about the logistical challenges faced by the Germans and Allies in World War II during the Battle of the Bulge in 1944/45. They followed KG Peiper’s advance through the Ardennes and the famous encirclement of the 101st Airborne Division at Bastogne. Following this they journeyed to Vimy Ridge and Tyne Cot Cemetery near Ypres to pay respects to those who lost their lives in World War I. The party attended Menin Gate for the Last Post which is played every day at 20:00. Each year 20 Squadron aims to complete a BFS with both its military and civil service personnel to enhance the cohesiveness and teamwork within the Sqn.

8 BFS personnel with a WWII King Tiger tank in the Ardennes

44 Support Squadron Royal Military Academy SANDHURST

OC: Maj Z Zmitrowicz • TCWO: WO1 L Brier

It’s been a busy and rewarding summer period for 44 Squadron, with operational deployments, sporting excellence, and adventure training at home and abroad. The Sqn has once again demonstrated its adaptability, fitness, and professionalism across a wide range of demanding environments.

In July, the Sqn deployed to Germany to support in Ex DYNAMIC VICTORY. This final validation phase at Hohenfels and Grafenwöhr tested the full range of tactical and soldiering skills for the soon to be commissioned officers. The exercise proved a valuable testbed for individuals to showcase leadership, resilience, and combat readiness. The performance of 44 Sqn was outstanding, reinforcing its reputation for dependability and operational excellence.

Back in the UK, the OC’s Sports Competition was another highlight of the summer. The multi-discipline event featured a 2k run, swimming, and bike riding. Personnel from 44 Sqn approached the competition with energy and enthusiasm, pushing themselves to the limit and showing the kind of physical fitness and team spirit, we take pride in. It was a great opportunity to switch gears from squadron duties and connect through friendly but fierce competition.

One of the standout achievements within 44 Sqn came from Pte Allen, who continued to impress at the highest levels of Army sport. She represented the Army in a series of events, and her commitment and talent were on full display at the CSSC 6s football tournament, where she was named Player of the Tournament. Her contribution in both the CSSC competition and the Army 6s tournament in Aldershot has brought immense pride to the Sqn. She stands as a role model for others, showing what can be achieved with focus, discipline, and drive.

Adventurous training featured strongly this summer as well, with

8 Pte Allen was named Player of the Tournament

teams heading abroad to embrace physical and mental challenges in some of the world’s most stunning environments. In Italy, soldiers tackled mountain biking, hillwalking and rock climbing in the Dolomites, taking in breathtaking alpine views while developing confidence and leadership skills in unfamiliar terrain. The training was as enjoyable as it was demanding, and participants returned with new experiences, new friendships, and a fresh appreciation for personal challenge.

August also saw a group undertake an expedition to Morocco, where they trail-walked their way up Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. The altitude, terrain, and heat tested endurance and teamwork - an unforgettable experience for all involved.

September marked the start of a new phase, as the next intake at RMAS begins training. 44 Sqn will continue with the same high standards, ready to assist the Academy. Whether it’s on the field, on deployment, or on the mountainside, 44 Sqn continues to deliver across the board.

8 AT in Italy included mountain biking, hillwalking and rock climbing

at the CSSC 6’s football tournament

VICTOR Squadron, Commando Logistic Regiment RM

CHIVENOR

OC: Maj T Stanford RLC • SMM: WO2 C Williams RM

VICTOR Sqn provides 2nd line logistics support to the UK Commando Force (UKCF) and 1st line LSDs to 40 and 45 Cdo RM. The workforce is predominantly RLC with SCO and Pet Op trades but also contains a Royal Marines Transport Troop. We are a diverse and fully integrated team of specialists committed to the unique challenge of sustaining Commando Force (CF) operations worldwide.

After an intense period of preparation and training, CLR deployed to the Norwegian Arctic Circle on the month-long Ex ARCTIC TIDE. The exercise sought to test the sustainment organisation of UKCF within a Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) framework as the CF continues to train for operational activity in the High North and Arctic Regions. V Sqn embarked on RFA LYME BAY and facilitated by our 17 P&M Regt colleagues, launched assault landings on Norway’s coast. The Sqn moved forward to establish an FSA ashore while simultaneously managing a 4th to 1st line supply chain, with LYME BAY acting as the 3rd line. The Sqn then reembarked the ship for transit to a second littoral location before landing again and repeating the process, simulating CLR’s agile deployability in support of Commando operations. The exercise was challenging but extremely useful for all involved as CF sustainment SOPs for operating in the High North Region - an increasingly important theatre for the Commando Force - are developed. Lessons learnt from this exercise, the war in Ukraine, as well as good ideas from all ranks are blended to build a logistic doctrine that will benefit CF for many years to come. Alongside the expected demands of operating in the High North, V Sqn SP were able to enjoy the amazing Norwegian scenery as well as repeated displays of the Northern Lights which were so strong during the first assault

landing that night vision devices were unnecessary.

In July the V Sqn SCOs conducted the first in a series of look at life opportunities. During which, personnel from across the Corps visited RMB Chivenor, received briefs on the unique activities of the Sqn and got to have a go on the Commandos’ famous ‘Bottom Field’ assault course. The visit was finalised with a whole-Sqn Nepalese Curry social where attendees could spend time among the troops and hear for themselves, the excellent opportunities the Sqn

provides. If you are interested in attending a future look at life event, please keep an eye out for our RLC App adverts and via emails sent through your unit CoC.

Outside of work the Sqn has seen numerous SP participating in various activities. In July the Sqn competed in the RLC sport competition at Worthy Down, achieving the following: runners up in Basketball, 3rd place in BAWF, knockout stage in Badminton and LCpl Westbury placing 2nd in the 5km X-Country over-30s category. In July, a number of the Sqn visited the Gurkha Museum in Winchester, providing a fascinating insight into the rich culture of the Gurkhas. A particularly poignant time to visit the museum as V Sqn strengthens its ties with 94 Sqn QOGLR, 9 Regt exchanging ideas and support to the benefit of both. In September, three teams from CLR competed in the gruelling Poole to Lympstone run, covering 44 miles split over two days along the south coast, with one of the teams placing 5th out of 30 total teams from across CF. If working with UKCF interests you, sign up for our ’Look at Life’ unit visits or follow our Instagram account @vcommandosquadron to see what life is like for V Sqn personnel and the RLC’s Commandos. You won’t know what you are capable of until you try!

8 GS Tp landing ashore from LCU

8 LCpl Westbury and Lt Rex running during Poole to Lympstone race

132 Aviation Supply Squadron Royal Logistic Corps

WATTISHAM FLYING STATION

OC: Maj J Humphreys • 2IC: Capt A Warnes • SSM: SSgt J Reardon

At the heart of a transformative chapter for Army Aviation, over the last 11 months, 132 Aviation Support Squadron has been vital in evolving air power. Assisting with ES Mat provision for E-model Apache, 132 Sqn ensured zero operational pause, no supply gaps, and uninterrupted momentum.

During this shift, 132 Sqn deployed the new RLC supply chain model, forming composite subunits that supported AAC BGs on multiple exercises providing dispersed tactical logistic nodes. These tested the Aviation Logistic Network from depot to first-line delivery, collaborating with contracted and cross-service partners to deliver Aviation Log and ES Mat effect. Every part delivered, every convoy moved, every demand met; executed with pace and professionalism.

Exercises like ATRIUMS 25.1, ARTIMUS 25.2, CT(B), and DOMINION ensured 132 Sqn was prepared for Ex PINION TITAN at the end of the training year. Every move, decision, and supply run pushed the limits. Fieldcraft sharpened. Logistics became a weapon. Soldiers adapted fast, responded faster, and held the line under pressure.

Ex CEASERS MARKSMAN followed a tactical live fire exercise that sought to build on the basics already taught, providing opportunity for the most junior

soldiers to experience TLFTT buildup training. 132 Sqn showed what it has always been… Trained, equipped and ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. 132 Sqn remains ready, capable, and dependable. Then came Ex PINION TITAN supporting both 3AAC and 4AAC. Rapid resupplies and a wartime tempo proved their strength in a warfighting at scale context. The Sqn ensured both BGs were sustained throughout the exercise with both ES Mat and CSups, establishing multiple nodes across 1 Avn BCT’s AOR.

Amidst high operational demand, 132 Sqn found time to write a remarkable history on the track. In May 2025, the Sqn entered the RLC Athletics Championships and emerged as Minor Unit Champions

8 Ex ATLAS EXPLORER pushed participants physically and mentally

for the very first time in history. A hard-fought, high-octane clash of strength, speed, and spirit. The Sqn fielded a formidable team of eight SP. Behind the podium stood soldiers shaped by challenge, success, and failure. Whether in warehouse, on tarmac or in the field, 132 Sqn unity and resilience shone through.

Ex ATLAS EXPLORER honed technical and navigational skills in a demanding alpine environment, including emergency procedures. Controlled exposure to risk enhanced physical and mental robustness while strengthening cohesion and nature’s unforgiving terrain became a testing ground for leadership.

From treacherous hill walks to adrenaline fuelled rock climbing and mountain biking, every challenge was a lesson. Soldiers were pushed physically and mentally and through this experience trust and mental agility were formed.

It has been an exciting year. With Christmas standdown around the corner. 132 Sqn is looking forward to some well-earned rest and recuperation.

8 132 Sqn are RLC Minor Unit Athletics Champions

150 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

HULL, LINCOLN, TYNEMOUTH, LEEDS, DONCASTER

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

Exercise RHINO HEART 25

The culmination of several months planning and training saw a successful deployment to Sennelager, Germany on Ex RHINO HEART 25 (Ex RH25). Members of 150 Regiment RLC (and attachments from the Regular Army) deployed in support of 19 Bde to conduct a combined-arms, multi-national FTX. The first phase of the exercise focused on ‘Specialist to Arm’ training, affording the opportunity for our reservists to ‘shake out’, refine TTPs and practice their trade. The second phase shifted focus and the deployed Sqn was responsible for supporting two BGs.

A highlight from this phase of the exercise was the execution of a long drive across Germany; two packets of vehicles driving in excess of 250km. The Regt’l HQ deployed to command the CSS Gp which consisted of REME, Med and RMP FEs from across the Field Army and synergised the efforts of all the supporting Arms to maintain 19 Bde’s combat effectiveness. With a focus on ARes modernisation, C2 utilised state of the art communications (WAVE) which enhanced situational awareness of the CSS elements and was the envy of the supported Bde HQ.

During the deployment we were fortunate enough to host Brig Newland, Comd 102 OSB; Col Dyos, Deputy Colonel RLC and Lt Col Clements, SO1 Reserves 102 OSB. In review, the exercise was a huge success, promoting cohesion of personnel and developing professional competence. Stand out performances from WO2 (RQMS) McCoubrey, awarded a Brigade Commander’s Commendation; Sgt Hardstaff, Pte Mortimer and Pte Dyson-Bell, each receiving a Brigade Commander’s Coin.

Quarter in Review

Despite the summer stand down period, the Regt kept its momentum with a steady drumbeat of activity. The Sqns in Lincoln and

Hull upheld their commitment to the community by hosting the prestigious RFCA Lord Lieutenant Awards. Meanwhile, there were plenty of reasons to celebrate, with well-earned promotions highlighting the dedication and excellence of our personnel.

For those unable to deploy to Germany, the Regt provided an alternative ACT - Ex LOW MOORto aide in our people’s professional development. By providing the opportunity to attain driving licenses, the Regt ensures that its personnel gain the necessary practical skills that will serve them well both in and out of uniform.

The Band

The Band continues to go from strength to strength, proudly representing the Regt at events across the UK and Europe. Their performances have become a hallmark of excellence, from highprofile concerts to localised flashmobs, the Band consistently showcases their professionalism.

8 On Ex RH25 convoy moves were in excess of 250km

As their numbers increase, so too does their drive and ambition. The Band remains actively engaged in recruiting talented musicians, welcoming new members who each bring something to the table. This commitment to growth ensures the Band remains versatile, dynamic, and ready to meet the demands of an increasingly busy schedule.

The Band has been busily preparing for its ACT at Worthy Down where the Band Master and Band PSI hope to refine their repertoire, strengthen cohesion amongst members, and, above all else, prepare for future engagements with a push to be recognised as The RLC’s ARes Band, which would attract additional musician PIDs to enhance its presence across Defence and contribution to Defence Engagement.

Join Us

We have sub-unit locations in Doncaster, Hull, Leeds, Lincoln and Tynemouth and we are always looking to hear from those considering joining or transferring across from the Regular Army. To find out more about the Regiment and current availability scan our QR code. If you’re about to leave the Regular Army, then let us assist you in your transition and provide you opportunity to understand your worth in the Army Reserve or how we can support your success.

8 The 150RLC band has played at events across the UK and Europe

151 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

CROYDON

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

Pushing limits and building teams, it has been a season of growth for 151 Regiment RLC. Alongside an eventful training and engagement schedule, numerous attestations have taken place and the Regt has been widely represented in sports. More than twelve driver qualifications have also been awarded at various levels, with many individuals due to undertake further training soon.

Holding four Palletised Load System (PLS) vehicles, 151 Regt has been delivering intensive fiveday training packages that cover everything from vehicle handling to mastering the load handling system capable of offloading and recovering flat racks up to 16.5 tonnes. Due to its left-hand drive setup, there is also a driving assessment on public roads. LCpl Cox (871 Sqn) described the course as “an excellent opportunity to work directly with equipment not often accessible to Reservists.” For Pte Watson (871 Sqn), loading and unloading the flat racks was tough, but “with excellent instruction and practice, it eventually clicked.” Similarly, during his recent C+E training, Pte John (240 Sqn) highlighted additional benefits of informative and engaging trade training: “The course was rewarding and the instructor shared valuable wisdom for my career, from his own experiences.” Beyond developing capabilities behind the wheel, momentum was also found through Adventurous Training. 151 Regt’s 11-strong team participated in the arduous 4Days Marches in Nijmegen, walking 23-30 miles per day whilst carrying a minimum of 10kg. The team leader, Maj Herlihy (124 Sqn), was “very proud of everyone’s dedication and resilience, pushing through pain and fatigue each day to cross the finish line as a complete team.” Pte Lurescue (240 Sqn) found the event “very beneficial for health, and challenging.” Around the same

time, six individuals boarded a 38ft Dehler yacht in Cyprus for offshore sailing as part of Ex COCKNEY TRIDENT HALYARD. Covering between 24-39 nautical miles daily, with winds occasionally up to 20

knots and waves around 2-3 metres in height, the crew worked cohesively although pushed beyond their comfort zones.

Back on land, 562 Sqn conducted a battlefield study in Normandy. Retracing the path of the beach invasion and the vital supply lines that sustained it, they honoured the legacy of those who forged logistical victory. Meanwhile, members of 508 (HQ) Sqn participated in Ex NORTHERN STRIKE in the US. This involved operating military vehicles like the Humvee and Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV), with extra-curricular activities including cadaver searches with the US Marine Corps and a Blackhawk helicopter ride. Innovative training and teamwork were also present at the Military International Drone Racing Tournament (MIDRT) at RMAS. Combining technical acumen with tactical flair, Lt Newton (508 Sqn) adeptly made the case for the Regt to have its own team in the future.

151 Regt also pushed boundaries in army sport at the Corps level. LCpl Cunningham (871 Sqn) participated in the Inter-Corps Open Water Swimming Championships. Finding the event “really inclusive, with swimmers of all levels competing,” she encourages “swimmers to compete next year.” The races ranged from 750m to 3km, with a 400m relay at the end. Elsewhere, LCpl Hughes (240 Sqn) put on an impressive show in his debut year fishing for the Corps. After winning the ICCC he recalled: “I was put in A10 on Brasenose and, with only a couple of hours left of the match, I caught my first carp at 16Ib 1oz. After an hour, I managed another at 35lb 11oz.” Beyond enhancing personal and professional capabilities, such diverse opportunities and experiences continue to strengthen 151 Regt’s operational effectiveness, foster esprit de corps, and prepare its personnel for future challenges both at home and abroad.

8 The Regt has delivered intensive PLS and C+E training packages

8 LCpl Hughes with his winning Carp

8 This year’s MIDRT has inspired 151 Regt to form its own team

152 (North Irish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps BELFAST

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

The period from August to October 2025 has been a productive and successful few months for 152 (North Irish) Regiment RLC.

August marked a significant milestone for the Regt with the commissioning of 2Lt Hunter. He officially joined the Regt, assuming the role of Troop Commander within 400 (Petroleum) Squadron. His arrival strengthens the leadership team and brings fresh energy to the Squadron. LCpl Jessica Hamilton also brought pride to the Regt by being shortlisted for the prestigious Reservist of the Year award at the Northern Ireland Veterans Awards. This recognition highlights her dedication and exemplary service as a reservist.

Adventurous Training (AT) featured prominently in August, with Permanent Staff deploying to the Mourne Mountains for an overnight wild camping expedition. This was followed by a kayaking session in Strangford Lough, fostering team cohesion and resilience. Meanwhile, 211 Squadron conducted its own AT package, deploying to Enniskillen for a weekend of challenging and rewarding activities. These events reinforced the Regt’s commitment to developing physical and mental robustness among its personnel.

September saw a focus on operational readiness and professional development. The Regt deployed on two key exercises: Ex SHAMROCK WARRIOR and Ex SHAMROCK LEADER.

Ex SHAMROCK WARRIOR saw troops deploy to Warcop and Albemarle Barracks, where they concentrated on trade course qualifications. Training progressed to include the development of anti-drone tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), with support from 4 YORKS. This exercise enhanced the Regt’s operational capabilities and ensured personnel remained prepared for supporting the TEG.

Ex SHAMROCK LEADER focused

on the professional development of Officers and SNCOs. Participants revisited the Combat Estimate, refining their understanding of the ‘Seven Questions’ planning process. The exercise included a historical study of the Battle of Stamford Bridge, culminating in a visit to the battlefield site. The experience was enriched by cultural visits to the House of Lords and Southwick House, providing valuable insights

into military history and leadership.

The Regt continued its support to the wider Corps, with Cpl Nummy Taggart showcasing her skills by piping in the top table at the RLC Warfighting Dinner Night. This contribution highlighted the Regt’s commitment to upholding Corps traditions and esprit de corps, showcasing our valuable Pipes & Drums.

The month concluded with several positive achievements. Six members of the Regt were awarded the Volunteer Reserves Service Medal (VRSM) during a presentation evening, recognising their long and dedicated service. Additionally, LCpl Smyth represented the Regt with distinction, playing a key role in the Army Rugby League team’s victory over the RAF.

The period from August to October 2025 has been one of significant activity and achievement for 152 Regiment RLC and demonstrates its commitment to excellence, professional development, and teamwork. These accomplishments reflect the dedication and hard work of all personnel, ensuring the Regt remains ready to meet future challenges.

8 The VRSM Awards Evening

8 Cpl Nummy Taggart at RLC Warfighting Dinner Night

154 (Scottish) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

DUNFERMLINE

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

Ex TARTAN HYBRID

Annual Continuous Training: 6-20 September 2025

Within a Reserve year it is often difficult for SP to find the time from their regular employment to help maintain 154 Scottish Regiment’s key skills base. This year was particularly pertinent given the need to train or familiarise and update drivers on the new PLS vehicle, so an Annual Continuous Training (ACT) ‘Courses Camp’ was required.

After muster on the morning of 6 Sep 25, the Regt deployed in its now familiar East Coast and West Coast packets bound for Longmoor Camp in Hampshire. The ‘Cadet season’, Op LAZERITE and general heightened training activity across the Regular Army meant that a 9hour journey south was required. Turning the journey into a training opportunity, JNCOs and Ptes engaged in route card writing and bonnet brief delivery before the green fleet departed for an overnight at DST Leconfield en route, and the white fleet cruisers invaded the South at speed in a single shift.

Longmoor Camp can variously be described as ‘interesting’, ‘worn’, or ‘lived in’ but the proximity to various excellent training areas, combined with the enthusiasm of the average Reservist made it an excellent base. The two weeks saw quantities of soldiers managing risk safely and communicating that management through the required quantity of written words, signatures and mitigating factors. Concurrently the Defence Train the Trainer courses were learning how to tie a Windsor knot and then delivering a lesson in this critical skill. Both these courses, so easily accessed in Regular units, provided much needed regimental skill sets but were also visibly seen to increase soldiers’ confidence at every level.

Whilst the technocrats were slumming it in Longmoor Camp’s well-worn lecture halls, the ‘154 ACT Driver Training Wing’ got amongst the green fleet. The RCWO and the Regt’l Medic SNCO

were to be seen heaving and sweating over Land Rover and 6-tonne SV spare wheels, before bouncing into the cookhouse full of smiles, after a vigorous session of off-road driving.

PLS and 6-tonne SUV vehicles seemed to be almost everywhere, being inspected, serviced, onloaded and offloaded, and clambering ably over all forms of terrain. Everyone was given the chance to see what the new PLS truck was capable of, and there were smiles all round. The B3 – 2 conversion courses spent a dampish night in a harbour area (although quite why that is a requirement, is uncertain) and generally got the trucks wet and muddy in pursuit of expertise.

In the second week, whilst the

other modules trained more soldiers, the ‘154 Skill at Arms Wing’ headed out to the Barton Stacey training area to qualify SP on SA (M) 18, or the ‘MQual’. Our logisticians were to be seen safely conducting some aggressive section attacks amongst various explosions and smoke. Many enemies were put to the sword, and a core of our SP can now plan and execute a blank firing exercise with pyro – and safely include a piper.

The weekend of an ACT period is generally given over to some form of cultural/military history event and our incursion southwards led us far enough to get amongst some naval folklore. A trip to HMS Victory and the Naval Submarine Museum was a good way to get out from under the feet of the myriad Army Cadet organisations that arrived in Longmoor over the weekend. At the end of the fortnight, we beat a victorious retreat home across Hadrian’s Wall having achieved everything we wanted - uplifting the Regt’s Key Skills Base, along with making some soldiers very happy. Job done.

8 Despite the distance, Longmoor provided an excellent location for the 154 Courses Camp

8 Camouflaging the vehicles in the harbour area

156 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

LIVERPOOL

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

This quarter has seen a marked increase in both pace and complexity for 156 Regiment RLC, reflecting the growing demands of operational readiness on the Army Reserve. Central to this was the successful delivery of regimental exercises, the Ex ROSE series, which rigorously tested and enhanced the field competence of soldiers and officers in preparation for their role within 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade’s exercise, Ex TITAN STORM 25.

Alongside the green skills training, the Regt also demonstrated its sporting excellence, with personnel competing at a high level in various Army angling competitions and proudly representing both the Army and RLC in rugby union. The quarter was further distinguished by a historic moment in the Regt’s history, as over 90 personnel paraded together for the first time as a full regiment at the Liverpool Remembrance Parade, the largest of its kind outside London.

Exercise ROSE Series

In the build up to 101 OSB exercise, Ex TITAN STORM 25, the Regt deployed in the field for Ex ROSE WALK/SPRINT/STORM. This exercise series is crucial to ensure the currency and competence of soldiers and officers across the Regt and preparing them to deploy on Ex TS25 and be validated as a deployable squadron and headquarters. Ex ROSE SPRINT was visited by the Colonel RLC,

Corps Adjutant and Corps

Sergeant Major. This afforded the Regt to highlight its readiness to Corps HQ. In addition the visit presented an opportunity for awards to be presented to our officers and soldiers.

Sport and AT

A cornerstone of the Army offer is sport and adventurous training.

The Regt attended the RLC Festival of Sport where seven members of the Regt played in the coveted White Cup football fixture. This is the tip of the iceberg with representation across a plethora of sports from Angling to Rugby and everything in between. The key highlight was the adventurous training expedition, Ex ROSE STEEL. 14 soldiers and officers from across the Regt deployed to Morzine deep in the French Alps for a multi activity adventure package.

Remembrance Parade

This quarter saw the Regt commemorate Remembrance. A solemn and vital tradition that remembers the extraordinary courage and ultimate sacrifice of those who gave their lives in the service of their country. This year marked a historic milestone for 156 Regiment RLC, as it proudly paraded as a regiment for the first time at the Liverpool Remembrance Parade, the largest outside of London. Over 90 personnel from across the Regt came together to take part in this significant event, demonstrating unity, pride, and a deep commitment to honouring the fallen. Their presence served as a powerful symbol of Remembrance and the enduring spirit of service that defines the Regt.

8 Angling is just one sport 156RLC has enjoyed success in

8 AT in the French Alps

8 The Col RLC presented awards during her visit to Ex ROSE SPRINT

157 (Welsh) Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

CARDIFF, SWANSEA, CARMARTHEN AND QUEENSFERRY

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

Another busy quarter for 157 (Welsh) Regiment RLC, seeing the Regt continue to build on skills and drills, focusing on preparations for Ex TITAN STORM 25 through continuous CPX/FTXs, aiming to be one of the first Reserve Regiments to validate to TL DELTA.

Urban warfighting

Taking the lead as the Regt's Urban Tactics ITR instructor, SSgt Gibbons designed and delivered a robust training package at Caerwent. The exercise successfully progressed soldiers of all ranks and experiences through a meticulously planned build-up phase, concluding with a dynamic full-scale Squadron level building clearance exercise. A fantastic training package ever increasing the Regt’s Warfighting capability.

Racing down the slopes

580 Tpt Sqn has welcomed Pte Mica Moore, a highly accomplished Bobsled Olympian, to into the Regt, and she didn't come empty-handed! The Regt has taken receipt of an actual bobsled, currently featuring a very patriotic, but soon-to-bereplaced, Canadian emblem.

Ex NORTHERN STRIKE

Five SP from across the Regt participated in Ex NORTHERN

STRIKE with the US National Guard. This deployment was an invaluable professional development opportunity, enabling personnel to forge strong collaborative links and gain hands-on experience with our transatlantic partners. Critically, the exercise provided specialised training that significantly enhanced the Regt’s logistic capabilities and future readiness.

The CO’s Sword

Competition

This training year introduced a revamped CO's Sword competition, structured around four major training weekends. The first event, in May, was a demanding program that included a Regimental Operational Shooting Competition (OSC), a full weekend of shooting, the Annual Combat Marksmanship Test (ACMT), and Multi-Position Shooting on the Advanced Counter Firing MMTTR range. Even bayonets were fixed for added realism and training complexity.

In June, the second event saw the Sqns descend upon Caerwent

Training Area for a challenging Military Skills Competition.

In August, the third event was a non-stop sporting round-robin. The day took a dramatic turn during the introduction to Modern Pentathlon when a torrential downpour hit. Undeterred, SP completed the gruelling event, competing as individuals and teams in a 1km run followed immediately by a laser pistol shoot: 50 seconds on the clock to hit the centre spot of the target five times. The Regt looks forward to its final instalment in Dec, where the Sqns will compete in the drill competition.

Farewells

The Regt extends a sincere thank you to those who have recently departed. Executive Officer, Maj Tom Evans, leaves to take up his promotion to Lt Col. Also departing amongst the OF3 cohort is Maj Anthony Hutcheon (OC 580 Sqn), and Maj Jon Scammell (UESO), who leave following long, illustrious careers in both Reg and Res service. Finally, outgoing Adjutant, Captain Robbie Sayer, is transitioning into the civilian world, and Padre Beale leaves following successful conversion to Reg service. Finally, a massive congratulations to our very own WO1 A Lock, who has assumed the role of Corps Sergeant Major (Res).

8 Ex NS saw 157RLC SP work with the US National Guard

8 A Sqn level building clearance exercise was held in Caerwent

8 The CO's Sword competition saw an introduction to Modern Pentathlon

158 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

PETERBOROUGH

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

158 Regiment RLC has continued to deliver across operations, training and community engagement, maintaining a high tempo of activity that reflects both our professional ethos and the commitment of our people.

Operations

Eleven service personnel from across the Regt paused their civilian careers to deploy on Op INTERFLEX, serving for six months on the HAP (UK). They are providing essential workforce support to 6 Regiment RLC; once again demonstrating the adaptability and professionalism of the unit when called upon for operational duty. It is a reminder of what makes Army Reservists unique: one week in an office, the next on the front line of delivering national defence tasks.

Training

Training has been full throttle. Drivers stripped things back to basics, practicing the art of concealment with camouflage nets, perfecting load restraint, and even building improvised garages in the field. Communications Troop and the regimental Chefs joined them, sharpening their own trade skills while testing themselves in tactical scenarios.

A composite SHQ deployed too, putting command and control through its paces ahead of the Regt’s major milestone of the year, Ex PINION TITAN with 1 Avn BCT this November. Adding to the

excitement, the Regt took delivery of its first LHD PLS vehicles. Reserve soldiers have already been trained on the new kit, ensuring 158 Regt will be ready to deliver seamless support when called upon.

Adventure Training

In July, 14 members from the Regt and 2Bn REME deployed on Ex DRAGON STEELBACK, an expedition to Morocco to summit North Africa’s highest peak, Jebel Toubkal (4,167m). The expedition was planned and lead by 294 Sqn SPSI, SSgt Begha and was further enriched by the support of 16 members of the Moroccan Armed Forces, offering opportunities to learn about their culture, traditions and way of life.

Engagement

It hasn’t all been camouflage nets and convoys. Engagement has been front and centre, with 200 (HQ) Squadron and 202 Squadron leading the charge for Armed Forces Day in both Yaxley and Ipswich respectively. Recruitment has also stepped up a gear. Under the guidance of the new RCMO, and with the relentless efforts of our ReMSOs, the Regt has boosted its outreach to local businesses, communities and individuals. The results speak for themselves. Over 30 new candidates have been allocated to 158 Regt compared with the previous quarter.

Visits

September’s training weekend brought a special highlight as the Regt hosted a line-up of distinguished visitors. Among them were Brig Tim Seal TD DL VR (Honorary Colonel, 158 RLC), Col Viliame Nanovo (Deputy Commander, 102 OSB), Lt Col Robert Clements VR (SO1 Reserves, 102 OSB), Col Mike Dyos (Deputy Colonel RLC) and WO1 Andy Lock (Corps Sergeant Major Reserves).

The guests met with our newly appointed Regimental 2IC, chatted with drivers and chefs, and even watched a live demo of HF-tomobile communications from our talented Comms Specs. The weekend also carved out time for recognition, with awards presented to soldiers by both the Honorary Colonel and the Deputy Commander of 102 OSB.

Looking ahead

With operations underway, training ramping up and engagement reaching new heights, 158 Regt has shown once again that the life of a modern Army Reserve Unit is as varied as it is rewarding. With Ex PINION TITAN, Remembrance Day and our CO’s Challenge Cup weekend, the story of the Regt’s busy year is far from over.

8 158 Regt summits Mt. Jebel Toubkal

8 A 158 Regt soldier receives their award from Col Nanovo

159 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

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

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

159 Regiment RLC is mid-way through a season of Annual Continuous Training (ACT) events which are all building our capability development at pace. One highlight was Exercise NORTHERN STRIKE 2025 (Ex NS25) in Michigan, USA. Drivers, Suppliers, Medics and Admins from the Regt joined with other UK elements and deployed to Camp Grayling as part of a Military Reserve Exchange Programme (MREP), hosted by the US Army National Guard, US Army Reserve, and US Marine Corps.

Ex NS25 serves as part of the validation pathway for the host US units and the UK’s Forward Elements (FE), enabling integration between nations to develop strong working relationships. Our teams were embedded with US hosts at Brigade, Battalion, and Company levels and trades. First impressions of the vast training estate, the rows upon rows of vehicles and hardware and even the excellent facilities on camp were slightly eclipsed by the intensity of the summer weather! All troops had extensive training opportunities including drone operations, driving US military vehicles (Humvee and Medium Tactical Trucks), and shooting with the M4 rifle.

When troops deployed into the field, they worked closely alongside

US counterparts to assist convoys delivering food, fuel, and other stores, as well as establishing Ops rooms and communications platforms. They learned new skills such as HELIVAC procedures in Blackhawks, with complex medical serials and practiced tactical differences between nations. The suppliers had established a Forward Logistic Element (FLE) with the 490th Quartermaster Company and also qualified with the US Marine Corps in mortuary affairs. By doing so, they became the most current and competent troops in the British Army in the vital skills of search, recovery, handling, and repatriation. As NS25 drew to a close, with an impressive final parade and camp-wide party culminating in a fireworks display, our Reservists enjoyed newly acquired military skills and enduring multinational friendships.

Further opportunities across the Regt have included many others gaining qualifications in Category C+E driving and the new SCO Practitioners and Supervisor courses at Worthy Down. 203 Squadron gained a major boost to operational capability with the arrival of new PLS trucks and these will offer greater flexibility and efficiency in future operations. The Sqn also played an active role in the 80th VJ Day commemorations

held in Loughborough, ensuring the strong local ties and paying tribute to those who served in the final chapter of WWII.

On the sporting front, a highly successful multi-disciplinary regimental sports day in June concluded with a fiercely competitive inter-squadron Tug-ofWar competition. Two of our best MTB Enduro riders joined the Corps team at Meribel to participate in the Enduro2 race series; and not to be outdone on two wheels, Pte Lancaster took first prize in the Motocross Enduro Clubman class at Round 1 of the Army series. The Regiment also deployed to Wertach, Bavaria for two weeks to conduct Summer Mountaineering and Mountain Bike Foundation.

8 The victorious Inter Sqn T-o-W team

8 Cpl Moloney racing for the RLC MTB Enduro team

8 159RLC SP trained on US weapons during Ex NS25

162 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps NOTTINGHAM

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

162 Regiment RLC has had a packed few months, with training, exercises, and publicfacing events all reinforcing the Regt’s professionalism and adaptability. From balancing ‘green’ soldiering skills with trade expertise, to meeting the public on Army Reserves Day, the Regt has been demonstrating what it means to be ‘Movers’ in today’s Army Reserve.

New Commanding Officer

The Regt bid farewell to Lt Col Hodgson and welcomes Lt Col Clarke who returns to 162 Regt, where her A/Res journey began eight years ago. Looking ahead, Lt Col Clarke is eager to shift her focus towards delivering key enabling capabilities during upcoming exercises, culminating in Ex STEADFAST DART 27.

Sharpening Skills on Catterick Training Area

162 Regt recently conducted a challenging and rewarding FTX at Catterick Training Area. The weekend provided an invaluable opportunity for troops to enhance their fieldcraft, reconnaissance and leadership skills in a realistic and demanding environment.

Troops were divided into syndicates and tasked with conducting a close target reconnaissance (CTR) of enemy observation post (OP) locations near a main supply route (MSR).

The following morning troops were tasked with preparing deliberate attack orders to clear enemy forces. For many Section Commanders, this was their first experience with the orders process.

Medical support for the exercise was kindly provided by 214 MMR, who supplied a Combat Medical Technician. Troops also benefited from a lesson on Battlefield Casualty Drills (BCD) and major trauma control, which was well-received.

Blending Trade, Soldiering and Public Engagement

Ex WYVERN NEXUS gave the Regt a chance to fuse its soldiering skills with trade responsibilities.

Personnel were out in the field tallying vehicles, conducting route recces, and establishing a Convoy Marshalling Area (CMA). These tasks tested both precision and adaptability. Tallying demanded accuracy under time pressure. Route recces required sound judgement to identify risks and plan accordingly. Setting up a CMA reinforced the Regt’s ability to create order from complexity, ensuring that movement activity could flow effectively in a deployed environment. The exercise was a strong reminder that movers must be as comfortable in the tactical field environment as they are behind a desk or at a port.

The Regt has also invested in

adventurous training through mountain biking. More than a recreational break, this activity challenged personnel to navigate difficult terrain, manage risk, and rely on each other’s support.

Back at home station, drill nights have been enhanced through instructor support from 29 Regt RLC. Their expertise has helped polished 162 Regt’s Trade skills with real currency and expertise.

On Army Reserves Day the Regt turned out in strength to engage with the public and showcase the diverse opportunities available in the Army Reserve. From explaining the unique mover role to sharing personal experiences, 280 MC Sqn highlighted the value of reserve service both to individuals and to the Army.

Looking forward

Whether it has been tallying vehicles in the field, navigating downhill trails, presenting on parade, or meeting the public, 162 Regt RLC has shown versatility and commitment. The blend of soldiering, tradecraft, adventurous training, and engagement reflects the essence of the mover role: precise, adaptable, and always ready to deliver.

8 Hon Col Cameron Macnish welcoming the new CO at her dine in

8 This quarter has seen a focus on sharpening soldiering skills

165 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC

PLYMOUTH

CO: Lt Col J G Porter • XO: Maj D White • RSM: WO1 P Viant

Ex MULBERRY CYCLONE

In September, 165 Port & Maritime Regiment deployed on Ex MULBERRY CYCLONE, the Regt’s annual training event for 2025. Reservists from across the UK (from Scotland to Cornwall) came together to complete both soldierfirst and trade-specific training, aiming to achieve their Annual Certificate of Efficiency.

Training commenced with a week of special-to-arm activities. Spread across the South of England, troops from the various Trades developed their skills. The Port Operators established a Logistical Beach Unit (LBU), graded the beach, set up a beach master’s hut, laid trackway, and implemented a one-way system. Mariners and Marine Engineers battled challenging conditions on the water operating both Mexefloat and Combat Support Boats. The Chefs worked tirelessly to sustain soldiers operating on the beach, whilst Vehicle Specialists from 142 Squadron supported operations at MOD Stafford.

During unworkable sea conditions, Mariners conducted virtual training on land utilising virtual reality headsets to hone their collision TTPs in congested waters. When favourable sea conditions allowed, Port Ops and Mariners conducted sea-to-shore operations under the cover of darkness - an especially demanding task, completed for the first time by many. Concurrently, developmental courses essential to Reserve soldier progression were delivered in partnership with 17 Port & Maritime Regiment RLC.

On completion of trade focused training, those deployed re-rolled into an infantry company, integrating trades and supporting units across platoons to hone urban operation skills. For some, this phase served as a refresher, for others, it was their first experience operating in the environment. All adapted quickly, transitioning from beach to village and demonstrating the diverse skillset required to defend

port locations in wartime. The exercise culminated in a companylevel dawn attack, reflecting modern operational challenges and enhancing 165’s readiness.

The two-week training concluded with a Cohesion Day, where the Regt enjoyed healthy competition at a go-karting track and shotgun range - an opportunity to relax and strengthen team bonds.

International collaboration in action

At the end of July, 2Lt Hal Gamble, a Troop Commander from 265 Squadron based in Plymouth, attended the annual Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers (CIOR) Young Reserve Officers’ Workshop (YROW) in Madrid. This workshop introduces reserve officers from all services to NATO, bringing together participants from

member and partner nations for a week of learning and collaboration.

The week began with country briefs, where delegates presented on their respective nations’ history, culture, and armed forces. The opening ceremony, held at a Spanish Marines’ barracks, included a parade overseen by the Spanish Counter Admiral and brought together participants from YROW, the partnered medical workshop, and the SNCO workshop.

Throughout the week, attendees received insightful briefings on NATO’s structure, mission, and operations. They engaged in discussions on interest-based negotiations and participated in realistic crisis simulations. In these scenarios, officers represented various NATO countries and were tasked with responding to simulated Article 5 activations - offering a glimpse into decision-making processes in Brussels during a crisis.

The workshop concluded with a visit to the Spanish Army’s Aviation Academy, featuring a tour and operational displays of helicopters including a Chinook, Super Puma, and Eurocopter.

A gala dinner marked the end of the event, celebrating a week of learning and camaraderie.

8 Mariners train utilising virtual reality headsets to hone collision TTPs

8 Laying trackway during ACT

167 Regiment The Royal Logistic Corps

GRANTHAM

CO: Lt Col J Rathbone • XO: Maj C Brown • RSM: WO1 G Burns

167 Regiment RLC continues to support operational deployments providing varied and interesting experiences for our personnel. Currently there are nine Reservists mobilised on Op INTERFLEX (HAP UK), Op LAZURITE, Op TOSCA, Op SHELLPROOF and Op GLANCE, which further demonstrates our Reservists commitment and contribution to operations. Opportunities are aplenty for our personnel with a constant stream of requests for support to various exercises not only in the UK but overseas.

This period has seen 500 Comms Sqn soldiers provide tactical communications to 2 Med Gp on Ex PAEON CYCLONE, 111 Cat Sqn soldiers provide Catering Spt to Ex PINION TITAN, 112 Cat Sqn continue to provide Spt to EX AUSTERE SHIELD in Latvia and Ex EAGLE OWL in Kansas. 498 Ops Support Sqn has provided Officers and WOs to Ex STEADFAST DUEL in Brunssum and Ex AVENGER TRIAD in Corsham, enabling Log and HNS.

In August, 112 Cat Sqn planned and delivered Ex DRAGON CUMBRIA 25. This multi-activity Adventurous Training exercise provided an opportunity for members of the Regt to deploy to the Adventure Training Centre (ATC), Low Gillerthwaite, located in the Lake District. The aim was to develop individual leadership, decision-making and enhance teamwork while building team cohesion. Nineteen members of the Regt took the opportunity to monopolise on the Army Offer and what it means to be an Army Reservist, by balancing civilian careers with their Army Reserve Career.

Regular to Reserve recruitment

A push on Regular to Reserve recruitment is underway. As personnel opt to depart the Regular Army, the Army Reserve may provide the soft landing if required. 167 Regiment RLC is a nationally

recruited Army Reserve Regiment, providing sustainment support to operations and exercises across the UK and globally. The Regt has opportunities for Chefs, Communications Specialists, Supply Chain Operators and Staff Officers. As a nationally recruited unit 167 Regt personnel have a reduced

training commitment of just 19 days per year, though there are many options for greater commitments including mobilisation.

Looking forward

The regimental forecast of events is packed with activity in the next quarter. We will see personnel deploy to Kansas, Estonia, Cyprus, Gibraltar, Jordan, and Isle of Wight amongst a multitude of other short UK commitments. As we welcome Major Craig Boyle as the QMjoining the regiment from LONDIST - and WO1 Graeme Burns who joins the regiment as the RSM, we wish a fond farewell to QM, Maj Allie Sharp as she leaves for 156 Regiment RLC as the QM and Adjutant Capt Callum McColl who departs for 20 Bde and his new role as SO3 G3 Movements. They will be sadly missed, and we wish them all the best endeavours for the future. Congratulations to WO1 (RSM) Graeme Burns and WO1 Steve Whitby on being selected for an Army Reserve Commission and Congratulations to LCpls Lai and Mole on successfully completing their AR PTI Basic Course where LCpl Lai was named Top Student.

8 Canoeing was one of the Ex DRAGON CUMBRIA activities

8 WO2 (SSM) Kennedy providing instruction to Pte Howell (500 Sqn) on Ex DRAGON CUMBRIA

British Forces Brunei - RLC Logistic Support

BRUNEI

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

British Forces Brunei (BFB) has been busy sustaining all the new personnel and families from 2 Royal Gurkha Rifles (2RGR) and 667 Squadron (Sqn) Army Air Corps over the last quarter, helping them to settle in and begin their work in their new environment. There has been a focus on how the RLC in Brunei want to respond to the new RLC Strategy, which has provided indepth discussions and has helped to identify gains to be made soon.

BFB has identified the below factors to consider:

• Winning on Operations – BFB should be able to provide fast, responsive and readily adaptable support to Defence, particularly in planning and executing movements in support to the RIB.

• Enhancing readiness through professional excellence – Ensure that personnel are fit to deploy, motivated, and ready to apply expert knowledge, skills and experience in logistics. Maintain the high standards and be accountable and transparent.

• Maximising fighting power through sustainability – By utilising the new digital web based applications and managing Defence assets well to rapidly provide information and solutions to commanders at all levels.

• Enhancing integration – Be the vital link between civilian and military organisations, maintaining good relationships within the area and by providing the initiative to use data to provide a better service to the Brunei Garrison.

Updates

The Movement Control Centre (MCC) has been busy both finishing the major movements of personnel and material as well as planning for up-and-coming exercises.

Op HALIFAX, the swap between 1RGR and 2RGR as the resident infantry battalion (RIB), has been completed and elements of the RIB will be deploying on Ex ALAYA

The MCC has also been working on the movement of 667 Sqns helicopter airframes, which will be arriving in Oct/Nov as well.

The Stores Section successfully conducted tender sales in July, inviting and engaging with civilian participants from the local community to bid for second hand and surplus stores and equipment. This event not only ensured responsible and transparent disposal of Defence assets, but also strengthened ties between the military and local civilians.

Local civilians were invited to attend and bid, creating positive engagement with the community. The auction was carried out in a fair, open, and transparent process, ensuring full accountability. It helped to reduce waste and make good use of reusable items, supporting sustainability.

The Tender Sales also strengthened relationships between military personnel and local civilians through cooperation and trust and showed the professionalism and reliability of the Store Section and the wider RLC. Additionally, the sale gave store personnel valuable experience in planning, teamwork, and communication.

DCOS Challenge Cup

On 17 Sep 25, the QOGLR Det organised an inter-departmental

volleyball competition within the Garrison Support Troops (GST) as part of the DCOS Challenge Cup event. Five teams participated, including Log 1, Log 2, HQ, BST, and 667 Squadron, all demonstrating high enthusiasm and competitive spirit. Ultimately, Team Brunei Signal Troop (BST) secured victory through exceptional performance.

The DCOS Challenge Cup is a year-round initiative featuring various sports activities within GST, British Forces Brunei. The primary objective of these events is to enhance soldiers' physical fitness - such as strength, endurance, and agility - which are vital for operational readiness. Additionally, participation promotes mental resilience, confidence, and discipline. Team sports also foster camaraderie, unit cohesion, and a shared sense of purpose, while offering a constructive outlet for stress and aiding soldiers in managing the demands of military life.

WARRIOR, a joint exercise between 2RGR and Indian forces.

8 Members of the Store Section ready to welcome buyers to the BFB tender sale

8 Volleyball was one of the DCOS Challenge events

Defence Munitions (DM) Kineton Station

TEMPLE HERDEWYKE

HOE: Lt Col S Sutherland MBE • RSM: WO1 S Rodgers

ATSG on the Move – From the Fells to the Frontline of Fitness

The Ammunition Technical Support Group (ATSG) has been hard at work this summer, striking the perfect balance between professional development, adventurous training, and physical challenge. From tackling the hills of the Lake District to pushing their limits in a demanding endurance competition, ATSG personnel have shown exactly what it means to be resilient, resourceful, and ready for anything.

Adventure and leadership in the Lakes – Ex DRAGON DANCE

From 4 – 8 Aug 25, personnel from Defence Munitions Kineton deployed to the Lake District to take part in Ex DRAGON DANCE; an Adventurous Leadership and Resilience Training (ALeRT) week. Thirty Service Personnel (SP) immersed themselves in a multi-activity programme of mountaineering, kayaking, and rock climbing –each designed to test their physical and mental stamina while building confidence and teamwork.

The team were based at the RLC Lodge in Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre, perfectly located for access to training areas such as Lake Ennerdale, Scafell Pike, and Ambleside. Weeks of planning by LCpl Mayne, supported by Cpl Pickford and LCpl Harris, ensured the exercise ran seamlessly. Each of them took on instructor roles too, leading the kayaking and climbing elements. Capt Dock and Sgt Marfell, visiting mountaineering instructors, joined to guide troops on challenging routes up Scafell Pike. True to the Lake District’s unpredictable nature, persistent rain pushed the climbers indoors for parts of the week, but spirits remained high. Evenings without Wi-Fi or phone signal became an opportunity to reconnect the oldfashioned way –over card games, sports, BBQs, and campfires. There were even a few short stops in the local village and a nearby brewery.

For the instructors, the week also offered a valuable opportunity to put qualifications into practice and log Quality Mountain Days, while inspiring others to follow their lead. Ex DRAGON DANCE once again proved the value of ALeRT by building resilience, leadership, and camaraderie through shared challenge.

Team spirit and strength –Ex NORTHERN STRIKE

Hot on the heels of the Lake District success, ATSG represented DM Kineton at Ex NORTHERN STRIKE, a physically demanding test of endurance, military skills, determination, and teamwork. The determined team comprising of Cpl Atkins, Cpl Peat, LCpl Billingham, LCpl Drew, and LCpl Lewis-Painter

approached the challenge with typical professionalism and discipline. Under team captain Cpl Atkins, and with LCpl Billingham leading multiple bespoke PT sessions in the lead-up, their preparation paid off when DM Kineton proudly brought home the Military Stands Award.

Adding an international dimension, LCpl Stokes of the New Zealand Army joined the group as part of a look-at-life exchange programme with ATSG. Acting as cameraman, motivator, and honorary team member. His enthusiasm and professionalism were a welcome addition and highlighted the close bond shared between allied ammunition technicians.

Pride in performance

From mountain ridges to muddy obstacle courses, these recent exercises have captured the essence of what ATSG stands for, professionalism, teamwork, and perseverance. Both events have strengthened bonds within the unit and provided valuable opportunities for leadership, adventure, and personal growth. ATSG continues to live up to the RLC motto: “We Sustain.”

8 SP took challenging routes up Scafell Pike on Ex DRAGON DANCE

8 Ex DRAGON DANCE was an Adventurous Leadership and Resilience Training week in the Lakes

British Forces Cyprus

JOINT LOGISTIC SQUADRON (JLS)

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

RLC Corps Day

On 24 Sep 25, the RLC community in BFC came together for the RLC Corps Day. This was more than just a day of competition; it was a renewed effort to strengthen cohesion across the island as part of a planned series of events to enhance engagement across the RLC community.

The event marked the first time in over two decades that the Corps family in Cyprus had competed for a long-forgotten trophy, rediscovered and restored for the occasion. Eight trade groups formed teams and took part in a series of physical and mental challenges across seven events: Football, Volleyball, Dodgeball, a quiz, two command tasks, and the ever-popular Tug-of-War.

The competition was tough with each trade group bringing their strength. The Chefs impressed with their knowledge, taking the win in the quiz. The Movement Controllers were a force to be reckoned with on the sports pitches, winning every fixture. Meanwhile, the Ammunition Technicians delivered a fantastic score in the second command task, as expected, showcasing their problem-solving skills under pressure.

The Tug-of-War served as a fitting finale, Postal and Courier Operators taking the victory, alongside completing one of the command tasks in a very fast 11 seconds. However, the Suppliers

emerged victorious overall, taking the coveted trophy.

With plans already underway for future events, the RLC community in Cyprus can look forward to a year filled with opportunities. There will be at least one social and one leadership-focused activity per quarter, designed to build stronger connections, foster pride in the Corps, and develop our soldiers. They will also prepare the BFC teams for the RLC Military Skills competition and the Corps Skiing Championships.

Postal and Courier Operator Convention

PC Ops from BFC travelled en masse to attend their trade convention in South Cerney in September. Despite the long journey, it was vital for the team to attend this annual event, to maintain their network across the trade and receive the latest updates from the Trade Proponent. Notably, Pte Paul Barton was

awarded one of only two Conductor’s Coins for outstanding work supporting operations and his dedication to delivering Defence Courier Services in a busy unit.

Vehicle Support Section (VSS)

During Q2, the VSS team supported Op HIGHMAST, enabling the strategic deployment of the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to the Indo-Pacific theatre. In direct support of this output, the team enabled the Royal Artillery to conduct in-theatre vehicle maintenance by providing Equipment Care and Inspection (EC) as well as logistic support. This ensured critical assets remained at the required readiness state throughout.

Operating as a lean but highly capable team, the team also supported multiple overseas exercises across Cyprus, such as Ex COMMANDO PHOENIX, BLUE PHOENIX, KRONOS WARRIOR, and UN-UNFICYP. In addition, personnel from across the unit –including 1 VSS – proudly represented RAF Akrotiri in the Cyprus Operational Shooting Competition. The team achieved second place overall and secured first place in Close Quarters Combat – a testament to their professional excellence and operational marksmanship under competitive conditions.

8 The Suppliers were victorious in the inter-trade competition

8 The newly restored, long forgotten, RLC Corps Day trophy

Logistics Information Services Troop 13 Signal Regiment

BICESTER

TROOPWO: WO1 (SSM) N Nelson RLC

This quarter has been a testament to the exceptional contributions of Systems Analysts both within Logistic Information Services Troop (LIST) and across wider Defence. From individual accolades to operational advancements and training initiatives, analysts continue to play a pivotal role in driving innovation and delivering critical support to the Army’s logistical capabilities.

WO2 Ramon Burrell FWIC, a Systems Analyst currently serving at HQ 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade, has been awarded an Honorary Lifetime Fellowship of The West India Committee. This prestigious recognition highlights his exceptional contributions and dedicated service. The award was presented by the Colonel RLC

who commended WO2 Burrell for his unwavering commitment to the Committee and his leadership within the Army Multicultural Network.

In operational news, the NonData Centre Hardware (NDCH) Full Operating Capability (FOC) milestone was achieved on 15 Aug 25. This significant accomplishment was made possible through the collaborative efforts of multiple stakeholders, including the Joint Systems Maintenance and Accounts Team (JSMAT), who played a vital role in driving the logistical rollout. The NDCH capability is a critical enabler for Front Line Commands (FLCs), allowing them to perform essential logistical functions in deployed environments.

Additionally, the System Analyst

Initial Trade Training programme commenced in September, welcoming two new team members. Over the next six months, trainees will gain a comprehensive skill set, including hardware, networking, and subnetting. Upon successful completion, they will be fully prepared to diagnose and resolve technical issues related to NDCH equipment, ensuring that our users receive seamless support in both fixed and operational settings. These achievements reflect the dedication and professionalism of the troop, whose efforts continue to drive success and deliver outstanding results across Defence.

8 WO2 R Burrell, Systems Analyst, is presented with his FWIC by the Col RLC Col Jackie Powell ADC

The Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

CO: Lt Col S Townsend • Adjt: Capt Z Ajjane • RSM: WO1 Y Angbhuhang

Ex CASSINO SPEAR 25

In July, 30 members of the Gurkha ARRC Support Battalion took part in Ex CASSINO SPEAR, a weeklong battlefield study in Italy - ably led by Sgt Omraj Gurung - focusing on the Italian Campaign of WWII. The study began in Anzio, where participants learned about the critical Allied amphibious landing of 1944 and the challenges of breaking through the German defences, before moving to Monte Cassino which offered a powerful insight into the resilience and sacrifice of Allied forces – including the brave Gurkhas.

Three Peaks Doko Challenge

Cpl Yogen Thapa and his team successfully completed the UK’s Three Peaks Challenge – an endurance event that involved climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon, all within 24 hours. Of note, each team member carried a 10kg load in a traditional Nepali Doko basket secured by means of a head strap. Furthermore, the team proudly raised and donated £1,017 to the Cheltenham and Gloucestershire Hospital Charity Trust supporting the Big Space Cancer Appeal.

Ex BERSAMA LIMA 25

Led by Capt Sachin Gurung, 32 personnel from the Bn deployed on Ex BERSAMA LIMA 25; a

TRAILWALKER 25

As defending champions, the Bn team participated again in 2025 to take on the 100km Trailwalker challenge. With sheer determination and resilience, the team pushed its limits and crossed the finish line with an outstanding time of 11 hrs 50 mins 22 secs. Their effort and teamwork secured an impressive ninth place overall.

NORTHERN STRIKE 25

three-week Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) Tri-Service exercise in Malaysia from 15 Sep –10 Oct 25. Integrated into a composite Company with Malaysian, Singaporean, Australian and UK platoons, the team trained in Kuantan, Pahang. After acclimatisation and RSOMI, they conducted Combat Enhancement Training, Force Integration Training, focusing on shared tactics, weapons systems, CIS capability and basic Infantry skills. The exercise culminated in a five-day warfighting exercise, covering Jungle Counter Insurgency Warfare, Humanitarian Aid Disaster Relief and Air Integration serials and ending with a company attack. Overall, an incredible experience for the participants.

The Bn team delivered an exceptional performance on Ex NORTHERN STRIKE 25, placing third overall among 54 teams. The team achieved second in the male category, excelled on the Military Skills stand with second place overall, and dominated Foreign Weapons with a perfect 20/20. These results reflect the outstanding dedication, teamwork and professionalism of the members.

CAMBRIAN PATROL 25

The Bn proudly competed on the prestigious and demanding Cambrian Patrol 2025, securing a gold medal for only the second time in its history. Led by SSgt Roshan Budha Magar with Sgt Omraj Gurung as Patrol Commander, the team covered over 60km and showcased exceptional leadership, resilience and tactical excellence.

Ex AVENGER TRIAD 25

Ex AvT 25 saw most of the Bn deployed between two sites to project and support the ARRC HQ on a CPX in its UK Strategic Reserve Corps role to NATO. With one CP above ground, and another subterranean, this provided some interesting challenges. The scale of deployment of the ARRC HQ is hard to imagine with the subterranean site using 30km of power cabling, 3km of razor wire and 9,632 hours of build time. The exercise was the largest NATO CPX staged in recent times.

8 Practising vehicle anti-ambush drills on a jungle road

8 Ex BERSAMA LIMA saw members of the Bn train in an Infantry role in the Malaysian jungle

Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS)

BENSON, OXFORDSHIRE

OC: Maj A Hughes • 2IC: Flt Lt C Jacobs RAF • SSM: WO2 L Dowling

JHSS remains at the forefront; continuously supporting tasking from Joint Aviation Command (JAC), as well as providing specialist Helicopter Handling and Underslung Load (USL) capabilities across the globe. Comprising of RLC, RAF, AAC, REME and AGC personnel, JHSS cements itself as the location of Heli Handling excellence within Defence – Together We Deliver.

As of 1 Oct 25, JHSS had five personnel promote from OR2 to OR3. Comprising RLC and AAC personnel from various trades such as Drivers, Communication Specialists and a Supply Chain Operator; this showcases the career development and opportunities found at JHSS. We wish them the very best for the future in their new roles.

Ex WCONUS By Flt Lt Haque (RAF) & Cpl Kahan Orde (RLC) JHSS continues to deploy on Ex WCONUS supporting 7, 18 and 27 Sqns RAF stationed at RAF Odiham. Ex WCONUS is situated in Southern California, USA at NAFEC El Centro (US Naval Air Base)home to the Blue Angels US display team. This area is ideal to facilitate vital desert training such as LALO (Low Ambient Light Operations) and dust landings for RAF Chinook Sqns. Members of JHSS deployed to support; re-establishing HLS (Helicopter Landing Sites), as well as assisting with night and USL operations in the harsh, arid Californian desert.

Right from the get-go, the team was out on the ground reestablishing HLS sites requested from the aircrew. Many of these sites are located on various types of terrain, ranging from sand dunes, salt flats and dried riverbeds. Using GPS, grid references and other aids, the team adapted to their new surroundings, ensuring the sites were suitable for Chinook aircraft to operate in.

Alongside other force elements, JHSS enabled 7, 18 and 27 Sqns to

achieve all their vital training objectives, ensuring they remained qualified to continue to operate globally. Many night taskings would simulate the insertion/retrieval of troops on both operations and exercises, where JHSS would use various light sources (buzzsaw and LMD - Lighter, Marker, Distress) to act as supporting friendly forces. The team also supported USL sorties for newly qualified pilots and aircrew who had their first exposure to the demanding desert environment.

During their downtime, JHSS completed Force Development at USS Midway, San Diego (the home of Top Gun) as well as visiting Air Museums located in Palm Springs and Phoenix, Arizona. They were also fortunate enough to see the Blue Angels display team in action at NAFEC El Centro’s Annual Air Show.

EX KUKRI DAWN

By Cpl Alec Cecil (RAF)

JHSS deployed on Ex KUKRI DAWN at Leuchars, Scotland to support 28 RAF Chinook Sqn Operational Conversion Unit (OCU) on the aircrew’s final exercise before they transferred to frontline Chinook Sqns - based at RAF Odiham.

The team were on the road to several HLS across Scotland at the request of the instructors. These ranged from disused airfields, farmer’s fields, racetracks and rugby stadiums (to include Murrayfield).

Throughout the exercise, various scenarios continued to build for the aircrew both in simulated and real-time JAC taskings. JHSS supported USL serials - including the lift of a Pinzgauer (6x6 military vehicle), L118 Light Gun - provided Pax (Passenger) handling and HLS recces. These were in collaboration with several different civilian/military agencies and services to include Police Scotland, Scottish Rugby Union, the Army Air Corps, the Royal Marines and the Royal Artillery.

During downtime, the team completed Force Development at Edinburgh Castle – learning about the historical and military aspects of the city. They were also fortunate enough to time their visit in conjunction with the ‘Edinburgh Festival Fringe’.

8 Newly promoted JHSS personnel from the OR2 to OR3 promotion board

8 JHSS personnel rigging up L118 Light Gun, ready for pick up by CH47

Maj JG Appleyard DSO, MC and Bar was commissioned into the Royal Army Service Corps (RASC) in 1939. Following evacuation from Dunkirk in 1940 he volunteered for the Commandos and went on to be one of the original members the Special Air Service (SAS).

On 5 October 2025, the RASC/RCT Association during its RLC museum visit and curry lunch Sunday, facilitated the planting of an oak sapling grown in memory of Geoffrey Appleyard close to the war memorial in Worthy Down.

The story of the sapling began when former RCT and RLC officer, Major (Retd) Marco Ciotti LVO, was a newly commissioned officer in the 1980s.

Marco first came across Appleyard’s story on his RCT Troop Commanders’ Course, in Buller Barracks. The DGTM of the day, Maj Gen Derek Braggins, had produced an A5 booklet on Geoffrey Appleyard, a copy of which was given to each officer on the course. Having served with the Commando Brigade, the General’s aim was to inspire young RCT Officers also to aim for the Commandos or Special Forces. Marco became further interested when he read that Appleyard had led a raid on Sark in October 1942, as part of 62 Commando, the Small-Scale raiding Force (SSRF); which was set up on the orders of Churchill. Growing up in Guernsey, Marco had been aware of the WW2 British Commando raids during the German occupation of the islands but didn’t know much about them. He found out more when he left the Army in 1999 and started running battlefield tours of the Sark raid (Operation BASALT) a few years later.

The Appleyard Oak

Some 20 years ago Marco gathered four acorns, during a visit to the Monte Cassino Commonwealth War Cemetery, which lay in front of the slab that lists those with no known grave. Maj JG Appleyard DSO MC and Bar was Ops Officer of 2 SAS during the invasion of Sicily. Aged 26, he died when the plane he was flying in crashed. His body was never found.

After planting the acorns in pots, and nurturing them into young seedlings, Marco planted one on the route of the Sark raid. It thrived initially but has struggled of late. Another died and the third is growing well in Guernsey. Marco had always planned for the fourth to be planted, if possible, somewhere in the main RLC Training establishment.

At a special formal planting ceremony, the fourth oak, or ‘The Appleyard Oak,’ now 14 feet tall,

was planted in Worthy Down Camp. RASC/RCT Association chairman Colonel (Retd) Nigel Gilbert MBE welcomed the guests before Mr Nigel Braggins and Marco both said a few words of explanation and then carried out the planting. The site of The Appleyard Oak is near the war memorial beside the footpath between the Officers’ Mess and the Officers’ Training Wing. Maybe one day a young RLC Officer walking up the path will stop, read the plaque next to the tree, research it further and be suitably inspired to attempt the Commando Course or even Special Forces Selection to fulfil Maj Gen Braggins’ original intent. On presentation of Geoffrey Appleyard’s second Military Cross, following Operation POSTMASTER, King George the Sixth remarked; ‘You again?’ Those who have seen the film about the SSRF and SOE operation to highjack German and Italian merchant ships ‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare’ will recognise this story. Geoffery Appleyard’s character is played by Alex Pettyfer.

8 (Left to right): Colonel Nigel Gilbert MBE, Major Marco Ciotto LVO, Mr Nigel Braggins

8 The plaque on the bench. A larger display board will be erected within a few weeks

8 Planting the Appleyard Oak

Remembrance 2025

Paying our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice

On Thursday 6 November 2025, the RLC Association and The RLC’s Forming Corps Associations were honoured to attend the annual Field of Remembrance service at Westminster Abbey, an event held in solemn tribute to the fallen of the Armed Forces and our Corps.

Hosted by the Royal British Legion and The Poppy Factory,

the Field of Remembrance remains one of the most poignant moments of the national remembrance calendar.

Her Majesty Queen Camilla attended the ceremony as Guest of Honour, bringing a deep sense of dignity and reverence to the occasion. She laid tributes and joined veterans, families, and serving personnel in quiet reflection

among the sea of poppy crosses.

On Sunday 9 November 2025 contingents from the RLC Association and The RLC’s Forming Corps Associations formed up in front of the Horse Guards building prior to marching past and saluting the fallen at the Cenotaph in Whitehall. We bring readers a selection of images from the days.

LAST POST

Mullan – On 15 July 2025, Mr R J Mullan RAOC

Arliss –On 16 September 2025, Maj R Arliss RAOC

Bentley-Marchant – On 28 September 2025, Col H Bentley-Marchant RASC/RCT/RLC

Bradwell – On 19 September 2025, Mr W Bradwell RAOC

Bryan – On 5 October 2025, Maj H Bryan RLC

Burgess – On 28 October 2025, Maj JFE Burgess RASC/RCT

Cary – On 1 June 2024, Lt Col G D Cary RAOC

Clark – On 5 October 2025, Mr PA Clark RCT/RLC

Cooper – In September 2025, Maj CJ Cooper TD RCT

Dadd – On 21 July 2025, Mr (ex-WO2) J W Dadd RAOC

Dawson – On 13 October 2025, Mr P Dawson RAOC

Dawson – On 28 October 2025, Mr T M Dawson RAOC

Docherty – On 28 July 2025, Mr W Docherty RAOC

Duncan – In August 2025, Mr (ex Sgt) C Duncan RLC

Edwards – On 14 July 2025, Mr R Edwards RAOC

Flynn – On 24 August 2025, IP T Flynn RCT

Frise – On 6 September 2024, Mr G B Frise RAOC

Gandy – On 29 October 2025, Mr Keith Gandy RCT

Griffiths – On 21September 2025, Mr T Griffiths RCT

Griffiths – On 4 November 2025, Maj J Griffiths

RASC/RAOC

Gurney – On 19 September 2025,Mr (ex - Cdr) P E S Gurney GM+ MBE RAOC

Hedges – On 19 September 2025, Mr A J Hedges

RAOC

Henderson - On 14 September 2025, Mr M Henderson RAOC

Henty – On 20 December 2024, Maj D M J Henty

RAOC

Herron – On 20 September 2025, Mr (ex-WO2) E

Herron RASC/RAOC

Hiles – In August 2025, Mr (ex Pte) I Hiles RLC

Holding – On 5 October 2025, Mr M Holding RAOC

Holland – In May 2025, Lt Col R Holland BEM MBE

OBE RASC/RAOC

Hopper – On 7 July 2024, Mr F Hopper RAOC

Jones – On 14 September 2025, Maj I T Jones RAOC

Kitchener - On 3 September 2025, Mr F Kitchener

RAOC

Lane – On 31 August 2025, Lt Col B E Lane RAOC

Lewis – On 13 August 2025, Mr T Lewis RAOC

McGough – On 18 August 2025, Mr J McGough

RASC/RCT

McMillan – On 13 September 2025, Mr (ex-WO2) J McMillan RAOC

Melvin – In August 2025, Mr D Melvin RLC

Milburne – On 13 August 2025, Mr J Milburne

RAOC

Moore – On 22 June 2025, Mr K F J MooreRAOC

Munro – On 12 July 2025, Mr (ex-WO1) I J F Munro

BEM RAOC

Pain – On 11 November 2025, Mr M Pain RAOC

Rogers – On 09 September 2025, Mr TB Rogers RLC

Rowlands – On 29 July 2025, Lt Col M Rowlands

TD RAOC

Russell – On 8 August 2025, Mr R Russell RAOC

Sharland – On 4 November 2025, Brig J F F

Sharland Late RAOC

Smith – On 23 February 2025, Capt DWR Smith TD RCT

Stephens – On 11 August 2025, Col HVC Stephens

RASC/RCT/RLC

Stone – On 27 June 2025, Mr PR Stone RASC/RCT

Tarr – On 30 October 2025, Mr (ex-WO2) R Tarr

RAOC

Tring – On 9 June 2025, Mr E E Tring RAOC

Veasey – On 28 October 2025, Mr R Veasey RCT

Vousden – On 5 August 2025, Mr T Vousden

RASC/RCT

Watford – On 28 June 2025, Mr (ex-WO2) J R

Watford RAOC

Watson – On 6 August 2025, Mr (ex-SSgt) L Watson

RAOC

Wormley – On 4 September 2025, Mr (ex-WO2) P

Wormley RAOC

Wright – On 29 August 2025, IP HC Wright BEM RCT

Wrotchford – On 24 September 2025, Mr (ex-Cdr)

A D Wrotchford RAOC

Sustainer Subscriptions

We would like to inform members of The Royal Logistic Corps Association and Forming Corps Associations who currently receive hard copies of The Sustainer, that we will be stopping hard copies for anyone who is not currently paying the annual standing charge of £15.

You will still have free access to the digital version, via the RLC App or RLC Association website.

This change will happen automatically and you do not need to do anything. If this applies to you, and you have any queries or wish to set up a standing order to continue receiving a hard copy, please contact Victoria Parkes on: vfceo@rhqtherlc.org.uk