Magazine of the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
In 2020, REME launched the Lifting the Decks initiative, with a focus on the mental wellbeing of serving REME personnel and veterans.
We are in the process of re昀ning Lifting the Decks, increasing accessibility with an added emphasis on reminding our REME Family to speak out about ‘what’s on their mind’ and that, whatever stage in their life, we will always be here to listen to and support them.
If there is something on your mind troubling you, big or small, whatever the cause, we are here to listen and to help. If you wish to get in touch regarding yourself or concern for someone else, please don’t hesitate to contact woym@remecharity.org
Corps
Editor: Mrs Sarah Eden + Corporate Communications Officer
RHQ REME, The Prince Philip Barracks, Lyneham, CHIPPENHAM, SN15 4XX
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Contents:
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General Handling: This publication contains official information and should be treated with discretion.
Colonel REME’s Festive Message
2025 has been another remarkable and demanding year for our Corps – one that has tested our adaptability, strengthened our unity, and reaffirmed our place at the very heart of the British Army. Across operations, exercises, modernisation efforts, and Corps life, REME soldiers and officers have once again demonstrated the professionalism, ingenuity, and resilience that define our cap-badge.
The last 12 months have been defined by two key themes –modernisation and transformation. As the Army fields new capabilities – AJAX, BOXER and ARCHER among them – the Corps has adapted at pace. We are reshaping our structures to support two warfighting divisions and a NATO Corps headquarters, rewriting our doctrine to ensure equipment support is ready for modern warfare, and exploring ways to upskill our workforce in areas such as drone maintenance, additive manufacturing, robotics, and Artificial Intelligence. This evolution is guided by our ongoing REME Plan 2025 and the developing REME Plan 2026, which continue to improve both the lived and working experiences of our people.
Our success is built upon the excellence of our people. This year, Lieutenant General Anna-Lee Reilly was promoted to three-star rank, joining Lieutenant General David Eastman –our Master General – and Lieutenant General Simon Hamilton. For the first time in our history, three of the Army’s eight serving three-star officers wear the REME cap-badge – a truly extraordinary achievement. Twenty-four outstanding Warrant Officers have been selected for Late Entry Commissions, and twenty-two serving REME personnel were recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours List – all shining examples of dedication and leadership.
We are also proud of our Corps’ vitality. Our workforce strength sits just under 100%, inflow remains buoyant, and outflow has stabilised – a clear sign that REME continues to attract and retain exceptional people. The REME Charity and REME Association have once again been pillars of strength, providing practical and emotional support across our serving and Veteran communities. Initiatives such as the Leafyard app and the Lifting the Decks Challenge continue to promote mental wellbeing and the power of connection, while new Branches and growing Breakfast Clubs demonstrate that our family spirit endures nationwide.
This year also marked 10 years since our move from Arborfield to Lyneham – a milestone we celebrated with pride. The Anniversary Games at Lyneham brought together over 1,500 REME soldiers in competition and camaraderie, and the Freedom of Wokingham Parade once again showcased the enduring bond between the Corps and our historic home. The REME Museum has gone from strength to strength, hosting major public events, enhancing its digital offer, and receiving national recognition – preserving our legacy for generations to come.
Our sporting achievements continue to make headlines. REME retained the REME–RAF Boxing Cup in Cyprus, won the RNRMC Field Gun competition at HMS Collingwood, and dominated the Inter-Corps Hockey Championships – with the men taking gold and the women finishing a strong second. REME Fencers took double gold at the Inter-Services Championships, while two REME personnel broke national records representing GB at the World and European Speed
Skydiving Championships. And with two young JNCOs now trialling for Team GB Biathlon, the Corps’ sporting spirit has never been stronger.
We were also privileged this year to celebrate the 107th birthday of our oldest surviving founding member, one of just 14 remaining pioneers of our Corps’ creation in 1942. Their legacy – of innovation, determination and service – remains alive in everything we do.
As always, the festive season gives us time to reflect on those we have lost. We remember LCpl Aaron Wright, Cpl Carl Anderson, Cpl George Nixon, WO2 Paul West, Cpl Mohammed Shahid, and Sgt Nareshkumar Rai, and all members of our wider REME family who have passed this year. We honour their service and their sacrifice, and we hold their families in our thoughts.
As you gather with loved ones over the festive period, I encourage you to take pride in all that you have achieved. Remember our colleagues deployed across the globe, and raise a glass to absent friends. 2025 has been a year of challenge, change and success – and it is your professionalism, your adaptability and your unity that ensure REME remains the backbone of the British Army.
Thank you for everything you have done for our Corps this year. I wish you all a restful and joyful festive season, and a healthy and prosperous New Year.
Arte et Marte.
A Day in the life at 17 Port and Maritime Regt, REME Workshop
Scribe: Capt Lee
Intro
17
Port and Maritime Regiment, REME Workshop have been busy across all areas of service life throughout the first half of 2025. Kicking off the year with a deployment to Longmoor Training area on Ex SEAHORSE RATCHET, where the Wksp conducted collective military and, Individual Training Requirements (ITR) training. Upon return, a host of technical and equipment courses were completed by members of the Wksp; supporting the Regiment’s diverse equipment. C fleet plays a key role in the Port Operations. Courses included TEREX Crane Maintainer, Operational Hygiene Maintainer and familiarisation on the Liebherr recovery equipment.
The Shipyard’s vessel inspections team flew to Cyprus to inspect MEXEFLOTE, supporting deployed equipment on ship.
On the sporting front, the Wksp has seen great success, with
three soldiers being selected for the REME Corps Mountain Biking teams and Cfn Takyi (Metalsmith) representing the Corps, Army U23’s and receiving an Army senior team call up in his first season of Football. LCpl Whittle has also seen huge success, representing the Women’s Corps and Army Rugby Union teams, proving an instrumental figure throughout the season. Her sporting prowess along with other members of the Wksp, ensured they took home the Major and Minor Unit’s Female trophy at the REME Annual Athletics Championships. An impressive endeavour, beating all nine REME Battalions and a host of REME Wksps/LADs in the process.
Closer to home, a recent win at the latest CO’s cup HYROX competition keeps the competition fierce across the Regiment in the CO’s annual inter Squadron/Wksp competition. Coming together most recently for a week in May, the Wksp conducted a multi activity Adventure Training package in North Wales. Under glorious sunshine, all in the Wksp pushed themselves and enjoyed some time away from the tools.
Cpl Crane –Vehicle Mechanic perspective
Tools clanking, engines humming and the aroma of the salty sea air subtly mixed with engine oil and molten metal. This is the daily reality for the skilled tradespeople of 17 Port and Maritime Regiment, REME Workshop (17 PandM). Located within the industrial Sea Mounting Centre (SMC), Marchwood, Southampton is considered the heart of British shipping in the South and so is a fitting home for the British Army’s Maritime Regiment. 17 PandM’s dedicated team plays a vital role in supporting not only the Royal Logistic Corps’, but wider strategic Defence Maritime capability.
A Workshop with the ability to operate all over the world in support of Defence Maritime logistics. In the last year the Wksp have deployed domestically and overseas. Sending a Fitter Section to Albania on Ex AUSTERE WOLF, a 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade (104 TSB) overseas Field Training Exercise. The Regiment and Wksp hold soldiers and equipment at readiness in support of the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) Theatre Enabling Group (TEG). Proving a worldwide deployability capability, landing equipment and arms on ‘the far bank’ anywhere, at any time; a feat few countries can boast. The deployed team received a nomination for the best engineering small team of the year at the REME Engineering awards missing out narrowly on the top prize. As a workshop we have also deployed on Ex SEAHORSE RATCHET, to provide us with an opportunity to get up to date on our individual training requirements. Also, re-sharpening existing soldiering skills and drills, whilst ensuring we are ready for our
REME Major and Minor Units Female Athletics Champions
ever-expanding deployments. It isn’t all work no play here at 17 PandM Wksp. We have deployed a team on Ex SUPREME GLACIER, Alpine Skiing in Austria. Spending 3 weeks completing Ski race development training in preparation for the Corps Alpine Skiing competition, Ex SNOW SPANNER. This took junior soldiers across all trades from a Ski novice to intermediate within a short time frame.
Cpl Neal, LCpl James and Cfn Black represented the Corps in the Army XC and Enduro Mountain Biking series. Cpl Neal is one of our lead Class 1 Vehicle Mechanics in the repair section and when LCpl James and Cfn Black aren’t tearing it down the side of a mountain they’re members of a team of skilled Metalsmiths and Shipwrights. Their role having completed the Shipwright Course is to make crucial, complex repairs to our fleet of Army Vessels, as well as using their niche skills to conduct bespoke fabrication work for the wider Regiment and Defence. As a team, they achieved third place overall in the major unit series. They’re often away in different corners of the country honing their skills and utilising their sports parades on those Wednesday afternoons, rain or shine.
LCpl Whittle is one of our most experienced Class 2 Vehicle Mechanics in the Workshop, and when she’s not spanner-ing hard, repairing an SV or Land Rover, she’s head to toe covered in mud playing for the Army 7s Rugby team, where she was pivotal in winning the 2023/24 season.
LCpl Gunn
– Metalsmith (Shipwright CEQ), Class 2
To say Vessels Platoon in the shipyard has had an interesting year of activity would be an understatement. From hosting the first iteration of Project BROKKR training, to deploying a Metalsmith FRT on Ex AUSTERE WOLF 24. The Metalsmiths and Shipwrights of 17 Port and Maritime Regt REME Wksp have been in high demand throughout every facet of 104 TSB. Offering an extremely niche and professionally complex output, the Shipyard Section is highly relied upon within the Unit; constant MEXEFLOTE repairs, A/B/C fleet vehicle work and of course, a vast array of ‘ground-up’ engineering jobs including fabrication. The Vessel Inspectors have been busy, flying out to Cyprus to inspect MEXEFLOTEs and on the home bank utilising the plasma-
Wksp AT – Yr Wyddfa (Mt Snowdon) Summit, North Wales
Sunset in Albania on Ex AUSTERE WOLF
REME, RLC and AGC Corps Mountain Bikers, 17 PandM Regimental Team
cutting capability, to support numerous Units within the Army.
Jan 24 saw the arrival of Project BROKKR into the shipyard. An innovative metal-spray 3D printing technology, BROKKR aims to explore new avenues for component fabrication, utilising Additive Manufacturing techniques. Deployable to austere environments, where normal sustainment options may be stretched thin or even completely compromised. The shipyard hosted trainers from Spee3D who delivered initial
training on the kit to a group of tradespeople from 104 TSB.
Nov 24 saw the shipyard send two Shipwright trained soldiers, along with the Regimental Fitter Section, to Albania in support of Ex AUSTERE WOLF 24. They provided a field welding and metalwork capability to the deployed BattleGroup, carrying out repairs to the MEXEFLOTE. Even getting stuck into supporting environmental repairs with pneumatic drills, to support the work carried out by the Royal Engineers.
In the wood shop, carpentry tasks have included the fabrication of a new wooden frame for the ‘Korea Bell’ –usually sat within the grounds of Tidworth to serve as a reminder of the Royal Tank Regiment’s contribution to the Korean War, which was in dire need of rejuvenation. Thus, the Shipwrights of 17 Regt Wksp constructed a faithful replica to ensure the bell will continue to hang in its rightful place for many more decades.
Other tradespeople within the Section have been hard at work designing and manufacturing an array of equipment storage solutions and training aids for 73 Sqn; the attached Maritime Training Squadron. Requests for CES storage and VSS trade training equipment were designed and produced by the junior members of the Workshop.
Despite a focus on engineering prowess, the Shipyard Section has members who pursue other areas of personal development. Cfn Takyi, a Class 2 Metalsmith, received the call up to represent at Army level, at this year’s annual Football championships.
A strong forward, Cfn Takyi secured the winning goal for the U23’s side and bagged 3 assists. Consequently, he was elevated to the senior team and helped to ensure that the Army came away with the overall victory, beating the top teams from both the Royal Navy and RAF.
Ground works with Royal Engineers, enabling onward movement of the force across an austere port
New REME RHQ sign
Practicing welding techniques
Exercise RAGING SHACKLE
7-11 July 2025
In my role as the Battle-Group Recovery Mechanic SNCO (BGRM) on Op CABRIT 16, I organised and ran a week long recovery camp on the Central Training Area (CTA) this article will delve into the personal experiences of some of my fellow Recovery Mechanics.
Conducting vehicle recovery training is essential to ensuring our operational effectiveness while deployed. As a trade group we often struggle to get out and train due to the
other jobs that consume most of our time.
Estonia provides a challenging environment for training. The CTA is full of bogs, which makes it rather easy for vehicles to get stuck; which has led to a very busy tour for my team. This has also led us in enhancing interoperability with our French counter parts, as the SVR is a class above the French equivalent; resulting in us often lending a hand.
By maintaining these critical trade skills, we reduce the risk of mission delays and prevent further equipment damage; this only enhances overall force mobility.
As the BGRM, I feel it is my responsibility not only to the Recovery Mechanics out here but to all the sub-units that they are confident and capable in all recovery operations; safeguarding both lives and assets while upholding the professionalism expected on deployment.
Instructor – Cpl Boghurst
Deploying on recovery exercises is vital for the training and instructing for Recovery Mechanics. ‘Recy Mechs’ are in a situation where we cannot implement training for physical recovery on a daily basis,
Cpl Boghurst, LCpl Birmingham – French Griffon Jib and winch (real time recovery)
whereas the other trades can learn a lot about their trades in camp. Going out onto a training area allows the Instructors to develop the Class 3s and Class 2s. Ex RAGING SHACKLE allowed us to conduct training while on deployment on Op CABRIT; teaching different winching techniques to educate the soldiers further. Teaching the class 2s new techniques and introducing them to different ways of completing tasks, was educational for all those in the syndicate. Moving forward, these technical training exercises need to be carried out whenever there is a chance to do so, it would give all those in trade a great opportunity to improve their knowledge, it’s also a nice refresher for those who have been unable to get hands on with the winching side of the trade
Class 2 Student LCpl Rowe
Exercise RAGING SHACKLE was an exercise that was solely based on training for Recovery Mechanics within the BattleGroup on Op CABRIT 16. During the 5-day period, there was a lot of different stimulating jobs to test our ability to recovery casualties in different scenarios with varying limitations. I found this exercise extremely useful preparation for my class 1 course and a good reminder and revision on the basics. I found that I struggled a bit at first because I’ve been posted with a CRARRV unit for the last 2 years and haven’t touched anything SVR related for a while, but eventually, with working on the SVR during this period, it all come back like a flood. I personally found that this course expanded my knowledge in the following areas;
How to place your recovery equipment, how to use the equipment on your vehicle to get the job done, how to do
different set ups of the equipment to get to the end goal, etc.
During this period, I’ve met some good folks who I’ll undoubtedly come across again, the memories that I’ve made with them will stay with me forever.
Teamwork and cohesion were pertinent factors that made this exercise such a success, this goes to show how important these factors are on or off the shopfloor, on or off exercise and indefinitely, on Exercise RAGING SHACKLE.
A big thank you to Sgt Goyne, the Instructors, the trainees/my peers, the mozzies, and flies for making this exercise what it was.
Cpl Fear Instructor Ex RAGING SHACKLE – OP CABRIT 16 Recovery Camp
During OP CABRIT 16, we delivered a highly effective recovery camp under Exercise RAGING SHACKLE. The exercise brought
LCpl Rowe and LCpl Birmingham – side over side being recovered with a Tirfor winch and SVR
LCpl Rowe Cfn Robinson – W-pull on a CRARRV as part of a 2-crew task
together two syndicates: one comprising experienced Class 2s, including a few newly qualified Class 3s, and another consisting of Class 2s actively preparing for their Class 1s. Throughout the week, students were fully engaged, taking part in demanding training serials designed to stretch their knowledge, test their experience, and encourage innovative thinking. The level of commitment and enthusiasm demonstrated clearly reflected the value of this training.
This exercise reinforced the critical importance of recovery camps to our trade. Removing these Technical Training Exercises (TTXs) would risk a significant loss of practical experience and development opportunities. We cannot rely solely on unit-based training, as operational tempo and day-to-day demands often limit availability. TTXs like this are essential to ensuring we continue to produce highly capable, competent tradespeople who enhance the Corps’ operational effectiveness.
Cfn Dec Class 3
Recovery Mechanic
I enjoyed learning off new Instructors and learning new ways to undertake recovery. I think it gave us all a new insight on the many different types of recovery in the field. It got quite tough though, with the amount of flies and mosquitos, luckily for me Cfn Sheldon was the main target. The weather played its part being torrential rain one minute and clear sunny skies the next. Everyone enjoyed having BBQs in the evening and enjoying the time we had out of Tapa camp. It also helped us class 3s get a few things ticked off our trade proficiency development books which we wouldn’t be able to do normally. However, for the other students that where class 2s this camp offered them a way to further progress their knowledge and skills to ensure their readiness for the class 1 course. The recovery camp also increased cohesion between Recovery Mechanics from all different units; building friendships and provided a useful way to pass around knowledge of the trade. Overall, the recovery camp was a success ensuring all students got the best out of it and gained useful knowledge that will better them in their career. My favourite part of the camp would have to be learning new ways of recovery off new Instructors and meeting all the different people of the trade.
A French Griffon drives of the track, not the first or last, I’m sure – Real life recovery while on the training area
2 crew job simulating a river crossing gone wrong – One SVR providing a check tack
2:1 winch task for the Class 3 – 2 up a hill on the CTA somewhere
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REME Cadet Camp 2025
– Ex TECHNICAL RESOLVE
Scribe: Major Owen Larsen
Ex TECHNICAL RESOLVE 25 was the rejuvenation of the highly successful REME Cadet Camp that was previously delivered from 2018 – 2020 by Capt Jon Farish.
For its reinstatement in 2025, Capt Jon Farish joined forces with Maj Owen Larsen to assist with establishing this event as an annual permanent fixture in the REME calendar.
The overall aim of the camp was to: Deliver a life changing experience to 20 senior REME Cap-badged Cadets who are in the most influential decisional years of their early adult life to hopefully inspire and nurture the potential future cohort of military minded technical Engineers.
We managed to secure the Irish Guards Light Aid Detachment in Aldershot (thanks to AQMS Kwame Hinson) to base this from and planned to conduct the camp during their summer stand down period to minimise impact.
For a whole week, we had 20 Cadets from two London REME Cadet Contingents (Royal Russell School CCF under Capt Nathaniel Quick and Avanti House CCF under Lt Charl Weyers) who descended onto the LAD.
The Cadets were split down into groups of 5, with each group being
assigned their REME Vehicle Mechanic Class 1 Mentor for the week, they then spent 5 days going through the process of replacing a clutch plate on an Army Land Rover vehicle. During this process their VM Mentors predominantly got the Cadets to lead with the hands-on procedures under their supervision, while tutoring them on the Land Rover’s components to learn more about mechanical and engineering principles. The Cadets performed admirably throughout, hoovering up all the work we had earmarked for them in record time and in total the Cadets completed: 6 Land Rover engine lifts, replacing 2
clutches, 2 sets of brake pads & discs and finally two-wheel bearing replacements just for good measure.
Being based in Aldershot too we were also able to organise the additional serials for the Cadets:
• A memorable Irish Guards camp interest walkaround and mascot meet
• A captivating visit from the Corps Engagement Team (Sgt Gough)
• An amazing hands-on visit to the 9 REME Bn Metalsmiths (Sgt Pretorius) and Recovery Mechanics
Finally, an inspirational career talk from Col Tim Turner DComd ASOB
For the Cadets though, the highlight was probably the visit of Col REME Iain Wallace at the end of the week, with him awarding each of them with their Hammer & Pincer Cadet badge which they will be proudly wearing on their Cadet Brassard for all to see.
A huge thank you goes to all the VM mentors for their top-quality tuition and Cadet mentorship throughout the camp:
• Cpl Jordan Cook 4 Rangers
• Cpl Jack Holmes 3 Rangers
• Cpl Lee Oliver 12 RA
• Cfn Eamon Kearns 16RA
• LCpl Stuart Gainsford 103 REME
• LCpl Dean Spooner 9 REME
Next year we are again looking to roll this out again across the REME ACFs and CCFs, so please if you (or a REME Cadet contingent that you know of) would like to be involved then please get in touch with: Farish, Jonathan Capt (9REMEBHQ-RCMO)
Jonathan.Farish787@mod.gov.uk
Major Owen Larsen (NAVY FGEN LOGS-SO2 ES Plans) Owen.Larsen983@mod.gov.uk
From Nepal to Lyneham – Cultural Awareness in Training
Scribe: Sgt Jackson, SAAE
The Army trains a wide range of individuals from diverse backgrounds, but how much do our Instructors actually know about how the cultures of those students affect their learning styles?
In order to find out, the School of Army Aeronautical Engineering (SAAE) at Lyneham recently held the first in a series of Cultural Awareness days, beginning with a Gurkha –Nepalese theme.
The aim was to create an appreciation of the Nepalese culture and Gurkha involvement within the British Army in order to allow Instructors to tailor their teaching styles and enhance the learning experience for Nepalese students.
The day started with a PT session inspired by the Gurkha selection process. Cpl Shrestha, a PTI who had transferred from the Royal Gurkha Regiment (RGR), was able to educate the group on his own experience.
The team marched with loaded Doko baskets to gain an
appreciation of the high standards and physical challenges that all potential Gurkha soldiers face.
Following the physical challenge, the team was then put through its mental paces with an educational presentation, which included an overview of Nepal and its main regions, a brief history of the Gurkha’s and their war involvement including how the Gurkhas’ join the British Army. They then looked at the current Gurkha units and involvements within the British Army, the Gurkha selection process and the main Nepalese festival (Dashain). The presentation ended with an explanation about the Gurkha Welfare Trust, including what work they do in Nepal.
Sgt Diwash from the REME Arms School, also an RGR transferee, then gave his personal account of Nepal and his career within the British Army. The SAAE members found this very interesting and asked questions around the challenges Sgt Diwash has faced, career aspirations and cultural factors. A group task then followed about how to apply this new knowledge: each individual team discussed the importance of Diversity & Inclusion (D&I), how the event could affect the learning experience of students, and, what improvements SAAE could put in place after the event. Following this, the individual team discussions were then discussed as an overall group; which promoted different ideas and perspectives.
Finally, a reward for this work: lunch! This saw a variety of Nepalese food being served with multiple curry’s, sides and condiments on offer.
This was one of the highlights of the day, creating a real appreciation of the culture we were focusing on, allowing the team to review the event together.
The event was well supported with a lot of positive feedback given from all levels, highlighting the importance of holding similar days and the benefit they have.
The group not only enjoyed the day they gained an appreciation of the Nepalese culture, built stronger teams, and developed ideas on improving the experience for students at SAAE as a whole.
Sgt Diwash giving his personal experiences from Nepal
The SAAE team using Doko baskets as a part of their PT session
SAAE Enjoying some Nepalese cuisine
Remembering M.E 13 Number 1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading), Weymouth
Scribe: Mike Jones AAE, Eng Tech, FIMI, AMIRTE, MSOE, LCGI, ARPS
We are pleased once more to be informing and updating you with Corps history covering M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth. I am sure you will recall the article in Aug/Sep 25 version of Craftsman Magazine under Corps history detailing my Father-in-law’s time at M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth during WWII. We informed you of the pending commemoration Plaque honouring the immense contribution the men of M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth provided to the success of the D-Day landings.
On 5 September 2025 at Weymouth Town Hall, the invited guests and dignitaries arrived at a wonderful sunny Friday morning in Weymouth. Colonel REME, Colonel Iain Wallace OBE ADC and Corps Secretary, Major (Retired) Geordie Wright-Rivers REME were the key dignitaries to the success of this event. The celebration commenced with Ann providing us with a few words describing her Father’s character and legacy with M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth, together with how this had influenced her own MOD career. This was followed with a few words of thanks from me, Colonel Iain, current Weymouth Town Council Mayor Cllr Caroline Nickinson and retired Weymouth Town Council Mayor Cllr Jon Orrell. Colonel Iain and Weymouth Town Mayor Cllr Caroline Nickinson then ceremoniously unveiled the plaque. Previously, Geordie had only seen electronic images of the plaque, but despite this he was so impressed his instant response was, “Get it, we need this, it’s phenomenal!”.
Ann and I have been dealing with this for over 5 years and we saw the plaque in the flesh for the first time back in July of this year. An awesome inspiring piece of Bronze
Bronze Commemorative Plaque purchased by the REME Charity
Ann and Mike Jones
commemorating the deeds of these inspirational REME Craftsmen. However, it was pleasurable to witness Geordie and Colonel Iain’s reaction seeing the plaque for the first time in the flesh. It gave Ann and I immense gratification to know that all our persistence, blood sweat and tears had paid off.
The plaque is located in a high footfall position. Many will now see and learn of the significance of M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth. It sits on the main entrance pillar to Weymouth Town Council Town Hall, and overlooks what was the exact location of the rear workshop park entrance to M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth.
The event went well with some unexpected results. Ann and I tread this path for many reasons, predominantly for the history of M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth, and to ensure that her Father’s legacy does not fade away to oblivion in the pages of the past. The unexpected results from the event assured us that as a consequence of our actions the Corps history and legacy will not fade away.
After the formal unveiling of the plaque and group photos we retired to Weymouth Council Chambers for refreshments. For Ann and I the interactions between Geordie, Colonel Iain and Council staff was pleasurable to witness. Ideas, suggestions, future projects were bouncing off the walls and the ceiling. Listening to Iain and his future ideas for embedding this story in Corps history was impressive and was music to our ears. As Colonel Iain correctly stated, the story is vital for young REME Craftsmen in understanding the Corps history and the critical role it played to the success of the D-Day landings. His thoughts and aims to include Weymouth and the legacy of M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth to be part of this historic educational process were inspirational and we cannot ignore the boundless enthusiasm of Weymouth Town Mayor Cllr Caroline Nickinson. They definitely want to include the REME Corps in the future with Armed Services celebrations and commemorations.
Providing a space in council chambers for some form of commemoration of the Corps was another offer not to be refused, over to Geordie for this one, who I am sure was equally as pleased to learn of Weymouth Town Council’s enthusiasm. Weymouth Town Mayor Cllr Caroline Nickinson finished by clearly stating that REME Corps is now a definitive part of Weymouth’s history, which is to be remembered and celebrated.
We slept well Friday evening in the comfort that REME Corps, Weymouth Council along with Weymouth Museum, will join together in the future to continue to celebrate and commemorate
Mayor Caroline Nickinson and former Mayor Jon Orrell
Corps Secretary and Colonel REME
the legacy of M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth. We had not anticipated these liaisons but nevertheless were astounded and pleased to have witness it all unfold in front of eyes and ears. In total, with the research for the book, and the plaque it has taken 30 years to get this point. I must confess not full time 30 years, more importantly the last 10 years after retirement from fulltime employment has afforded us more time to dedicate to this project.
However, irrespective of the time spent over the last few years on this project, Friday confirmed that it was worth every
second, every drop of blood sweat and tears. This is what Ann and I dreamed of and planned for to ensure that the REME Craftsmen of M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth were remembered. We are pleased to announce that we are there, however we are equally pleased to announce it’s not over. Whilst we have successfully completed one leg of our journey, the doors have opened to another exciting adventure of our journey. We look forward to keeping you informed of progress, sustaining and maintaining the legacy of M.E 13 No.1 Experimental Workshop REME (Wading) Weymouth.
Mission accomplished!
MSEC(L) Trip to DSEI
Scribes: 2Lt Bearman, 2Lt Darshan, 2Lt Marques De Assis and 2Lt De La Fuente
Military Systems Engineering Course (Land), or MSEC(L), serves as Phase 2 training for newly commissioned officers, equipping them with the special to arm knowledge and skills required for their appointments as REME Platoon Commanders and their future careers within the Corps.
On Wednesday, 10th September, the MSEC(L) course travelled from Lyneham to London to attend Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) to broaden their professional understanding of emerging defence platforms and cutting-edge technologies.
With over 1,700 exhibitors and 170 international delegations in attendance, the event provided a unique opportunity to explore innovative concepts and advancements in defence.
Since the trip was at the beginning of the course, the officers were organised into groups to foster team cohesion and encourage collaborative thinking. This approach also helped them focus on identifying future equipment and technologies that could enhance ES (Equipment Support) elements, setting the foundation for a forward-thinking mindset.
The first group was tasked with identifying equipment that could assist ES elements in effectively protecting themselves from drones. A few companies offered similar systems, but the one that stood out the most was from DroneShield – the only company presenting mobile detection and defeat Counter-UAS equipment. Their DroneSentry system employs Radio Frequency (RF), radar, and optics, covering a large range of detection and tracking methods. It is also mountable on various vehicle platforms for on-the-move protection and can be set up to cover fixed infrastructure. Additionally, it integrates with portable RF detection systems, which provide the user with the distance, frequency, and direction of enemy UAS; enabling this data to be utilised with their soft-kill DroneGun system.
The second group investigated equipment that would help repairing forward as a part of a Forward Repair Team (FRT). They explored both
DroneGun system
hardware and software, showcased at the event, that aimed at enhancing the efficiency and capabilities of support personnel and Commanders alike. This included an extended SV(R) with additional axles and power, to virtual mapping and navigation software allowing Commanders to plan faster. Opportunities for new training were also being exhibited, emphasising augmented and virtual reality to provide training scenarios that would be difficult to replicate otherwise.
The third group explored equipment that could help the REME “successfully hide to survive and conduct equipment support.” Among the solutions considered, personal camouflage such as ghillie suits stood out for their potential to reduce drone detection by making soldiers less visible to thermal cameras.
The group also highlighted the value of smaller workshops (the size of a shipping container), which reduce the footprint on the ground while still enabling complex repairs. Finally, they noted the effectiveness of advanced camouflage nets; large, durable, and made from thermalresistant materials designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings.
In conclusion, the DSEI trip offered MSEC(L) officers a valuable opportunity to engage with cutting-edge defence technology, strengthen their teamwork and broaden their professional outlook.
The knowledge and insights gained will serve them well as they prepare for their future roles as REME Platoon Commanders.
The REME Shop carries a varied range of items from branded clothing, gifts, statuettes, accessories, military uniform items and bespoke personalized products on request. The Corps shop is located within the REME Museum and offers a collection service.
The REME Trading Company (of which the shop is a part of) is a ‘not for profit’ and runs in support of The REME Charity for The REME Family.
Ghillie suit
REME Charity Trustees visit to 6 Armoured Close Support Battalion, Tidworth
Scribe: Paul Tumim
The REME Charity, your charity, is there to foster the esprit de Corps of REME. It does this through a range of activities that includes maintaining the heritage of the Corps through the REME Museum, providing funding for sporting clubs, supporting communications such as this magazine, and providing welfare, social activities, and grants for the members of the REME family: a family for life that encompasses both the serving and Veteran communities.
Like any other charity, the level of these activities, depends upon resources. And it is the Trustees, who are unpaid volunteers, but have the responsibility of making sure that those resources are maximised for the benefit of the Charity. This in essence is a case of ensuring that the REME Charity can do as much as it can today; whilst always mindful that it also needs to be there for as long as there is a REME family to support. To help in this task, two of the Trustees have non-military backgrounds, James Foster and your scribe, and bring both specific skills - finance and investments – as well as a broader, civilian perspective to the Charity.
The kind invitation from Lt Col Rob Ashton to visit 6 Bn REME, was therefore doubly welcome both as a chance to meet members of the REME family, but also to educate James and myself on the range of work being done by REME. We were joined on our visit by fellow Trustee, Bob Fram, who also just happened to have been a former CO of 6 Bn REME. His claims that he too needed to learn about what REME were doing, did not quite ring true. But he was able to check that his portrait was still hanging in pride of place in the Officers’ mess.
Ajax Simulator
The day began with coffee and the chance to meet members of 3, 4 and 6 Bn REME: some excellent questions – “what does the Charity do?” After a briefing on the structure of 6 Bn REME, we then had an introduction from LCpl Sunwar, Cfn Scarrf, Cfn Tembo and Pte Yabakivou on the weapons systems that REME supports: a surprise for a civilian to see that bayonets still feature prominently. This was followed by a visit to the Ajax Fighting Vehicle and its training simulators, kindly shown to us by Sgt Keevash. Wonderful equipment, baffling in its complexity, but brilliant in the way that the human brain is taught to manage it using learned behaviours.
After lunch in the Officers’ mess, with another chance to meet members of 6 Bn REME, the afternoon session began with a vehicle recovery demonstration from Sgt Durham and Cpl Batty, which highlighted the physical and mental proficiencies required to successfully carry out this process. This was then followed by a visit to the metal workshops and a chance to marvel at the skills of Cfn Hannon and Cfn White, and to then show them why the Trustees should stick to their day jobs. After final farewells from Rob and his team, all three REME Charity Trustees left Tidworth much the wiser and immensely impressed by what they had seen.
So, what were my impressions and what did I learn? I was firstly struck by the vast range and variety of work done by the REME, and this was just one Battalion, all of which required a high degree of skill and professionalism. I was also conscious of the demands made on the REME, which almost by definition will always exceed resources. But those are just the hard facts, and in the brief time that I was with 6 Bn REME I sensed an enormous level of dedication and commitment, which essentially boils down to that magic ingredient esprit de Corps.
It is always inspiring for the Trustees of any charity to meet the people that they serve, for if nothing else, it should underline the importance of the work done by the Charity. This was most definitely the case here, and by the end of the visit I would have answered that question “what does the Charity do?” slightly differently. Rather than just listing the various things that we finance, I would say that the Charity is there to help put that esprit into the Corps, and it does so by doing all it can to support that very special REME family.
Bob, James and I are immensely grateful to the members of 6 Bn REME for providing us with such an insightful day, and for hopefully improving the work that we do as your Trustees.
Ajax
Vehicle recovery
James Foster and Paul Tumim
The Corps Engagement Team
Are you a LCpl or Cfn looking to post in this year’s 2025 assignment board?
Interested in inspiring the next generation of potential REME soldiers? Continue your personal development?
Do you have various positive trade experiences to share and do you like managing your own time within a team?
“The Corps Engagement Team attends many events such as, MOTO GP, various road shows, as well as Engineering Schools / Colleges.”
If you feel like this job could be for you then please look for RHQ REME CET jobs on the CM portal.
Location: RHQ REME, MOD Lyneham
CL2 assignments for 1 Year. (Apprenticeship complete preferable) CL1 assignments for 2 Years
REME Servicewomen’s Conference & Dinner Night 2025: Empowerment, Education and Connection
OScribe: Cpl Scarlett Spridgeon
ver 150 attendees from across the Corps gathered at MOD Lyneham on 15-16 October 2025 for the REME Servicewomen’s Conference and Dinner Night; a landmark event designed to inspire, inform, and connect. With a focus on creating a professionally rewarding experience and fostering a powerful support network, the two-day programme delivered on three key objectives:
• Inspire and empower women within REME
• Inform, educate and understand female-specific policy and concerns
• Build personal and professional connections to establish an all-rank support network
Day One: Voices of Strength and Change
The conference opened with refreshments and a warm welcome, setting the tone for a day of inspiration and open dialogue. The morning panel discussion was a highlight, featuring:
• Lt Col Hobbs, who spoke on psychological safety and the importance of inclusive leadership.
• Sgt Taylor, whose story of resilience and thriving through adversity resonated deeply.
• Capt O’Brien, sharing her experience of the Forces Atlantic rowing challenge and the power of teamwork.
• WO2 (AQMS Hoare, reflecting on her career and encouraging attendees to “not be scared to fail.”
A buffet-style “meet and mingle” lunch followed, allowing attendees to build connections across ranks and trades — a tangible step toward the Corps-wide support network the event aims to foster.
After lunch, Becca Meadows delivered an outstanding presentation that captivated the room. Her session covered nutrition, working with our cycles, stress management, resilience, and the vital connection
REME Servicewomen’s Conference and Dinner Night
The opening of the breastfeeding room with The REME Servicewomen’s Chair Maj Lauren-Rose Taylor, Co-Chair Cpl Scarlett Spridgeon, Sgt Amie Kirwin who made it all happen
between wellbeing and leadership. Interactive and engaging, her talk was pitched perfectly for the audience, offering practical insights and empowering strategies that resonated across all ranks.
The afternoon saw the opening of MOD Lyneham’s second breastfeeding and pumping room, a milestone initiative led by Sgt Amie Kirwin, reinforcing the Corps’ commitment to supporting servicewomen’s health and wellbeing.
Attendees then explored a series of informative stands, including:
• Lara Mallet from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, highlighting the value of professional registration.
• Aurora New Dawn, a charity supporting survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking.
• The REME Charity, showcasing its ongoing support for Corps members.
• Thea Jackson, NHS pelvic health physiotherapist, and Capt Trunks offering insights into female-specific health concerns and pelvic health.
• Heidi Watts from the Defence Breastfeeding Network, advocating inclusive workplace practices.
The day concluded with a formal Dinner Night at the Harris MM Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess – a celebration of Corps pride, shared experiences, and the strength of community. The evening was opened with captivating speeches from Brig Clare Phillips CBE and Col Iain Wallace OBE ADC, both of whom spoke with passion and authenticity about the importance of inclusion, leadership, and the future of women in REME. Their words set a powerful tone for the evening, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.
Day Two: Deepening the Dialogue
Day two began with a powerful workshop led by Aurora New Dawn, offering practical tools and support for those affected by gender-based violence. The morning session was followed by another buffet lunch, continuing the theme of connection and conversation.
In the afternoon, Detective Inspector Troy Smith from Wiltshire Police’s Volence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) team delivered a meaningful and impactful walk-through on sexual offending; a sobering but essential discussion that underscored the importance of awareness and prevention.
The conference closed with a women-only discussion group, providing a safe and confidential space to raise issues, share concerns, and propose solutions. This final session embodied the spirit of the event; honest, empowering, and forward-looking.
A Catalyst for Change
The REME Servicewomen’s Conference and Dinner Night was more than a gathering, it was a catalyst for change. It created space for voices
to be heard, policies to be understood, and relationships to be built. It reminded us that empowerment is not just a concept, but a practice that requires commitment, collaboration, and courage.
As the Corps continues to evolve and events like this ensure that every member, regardless of gender, rank, or background, has the opportunity to thrive.
Brigadier Clare Phillips CBE
Sgt Aishlen Taylor presenting on the Inspirational Panel
Colonel Iain Wallace OBE ADC
REME Tennis Team Training Camp OSV August 2025
Scribe: SSgt Power
REME Corps Tennis Teams Embark on High-Intensity Overseas Training Camp in Croatia
This summer, the REME Corps Tennis teams, along with the Royal Signals team, took part in an Over-Seas Visit (OSV) training camp in Croatia. The camp marked a pivotal moment in their preparation for the upcoming Army Tennis Inter-Corps Leagues. The Corps Tennis team hadn’t conducted an OSV since 2016, and this one was finally made possible by SSgt Power, Sgt Simanjuntak, and Maj Smith from the Royal Signals. Held over the course of a demanding and highly productive week, the camp aimed to sharpen the team’s physical, tactical, and technical skills under the intense conditions of the European clay courts.
High-Level Training on Clay Courts
Hosted in the picturesque coastal town of Biograd, the REME Teams trained twice daily at the clay court facilities provided by the Ilirija Tennis Centre. The challenging sessions were led by experienced players and Coaches, including Sgt Simanjuntak, who recently completed his Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) level 2 Coaching
Members of the REME Team
The REME and Royal Signals Teams
qualification. The slower surface forced players to adapt their movement, point construction, and endurance, making it an ideal environment to build match toughness and strategic discipline.
Morning sessions typically focused on high-intensity drills, movement patterns, and stroke refinement, while afternoon blocks were dedicated to tactical match play, team doubles formations, and scenario-based practice. Off-court sessions included strength and conditioning and team-building activities designed to solidify cohesion and morale within the squad.
A Crucial Step Towards Inter-Corps Success
With the Army Inter-Corps Winter Tennis League fast approaching, the Croatia camp came at a critical time. The REME Team is determined to maintain and build on its success after winning the most recent Inter-Corps Summer League, and the overseas camp provided an essential foundation to help them achieve this. Playing and training on clay not only tested their technical abilities but also demanded high levels of physical and mental resilience; qualities that will prove invaluable when the teams return to compete on the faster surfaces in the UK.
The camp also allowed for squad selection refinement, with internal match play used to assess form, fitness, and chemistry, particularly in doubles pairings; which are often decisive in inter-Corps competition.
Players Selected for Army and UKAF Teams
A standout feature of this year’s squad is the high calibre of its athletes. Several REME players attending the OSV have not only cemented their spots within the Corps teams but have also been recognized at higher representative levels, highlighting the depth of talent within the REME Tennis ranks.
Cpl Jones and Sgt Simanjuntak were selected for the Army Development Squad and helped the team win the Inter-Services Development Championships 2025. LCpl Rai won the Army Men’s Singles Championships 2025, aided the Army A Squad in winning the InterServices Championships 2025, and in doing so, earned selection for the UK Armed Forces tennis team.
These players bring with them experience from highlevel competitions, including the Inter-Services tournaments and civilian LTA events, further elevating the performance standard and providing inspiration for team members aiming to follow in their footsteps.
Looking Ahead
As the REME Corps Tennis teams return from Croatia, the focus now shifts to applying the lessons learned and maintaining momentum heading into the interCorps season. With enhanced fitness, honed skills, and a reinforced team spirit, the teams are well-positioned to make a serious impact on the courts this year.
The success of this OSV reinforces the value of investing in high-performance training environments with the generous support provided by REME Sport and the Army Sports Lottery Board. More than just a physical test, the camp in Croatia was a statement of intent from REME tennis; underscoring their commitment to excellence and their ambition to challenge for top honours in the Army Tennis League and beyond.
Cpl Jones taking flight
Doubles action from LCpl Rai and SSgt Power
SSgt Power loading his weapon
NORTHERN ENDURO SPROCKET 25
Mountain Biking in the Heart of the French Alps
Scribe: Major C Kipling
From 19–26 July 2025, 102 Battalion REME conducted Exercise NORTHERN ENDURO SPROCKET 25, an exhilarating overseas mountain biking expedition in the world-renowned Portes du Soleil region of France. Based out of Morzine, the group also made extensive use of neighbouring bike parks in Les Gets, Châtel, and Lindarets, tackling a wide range of terrains and trails throughout the week.
The expedition saw 15 personnel take part, composed of a mix of Regular and Reserve soldiers, including four from their paired regular unit, 1 REME. The aim was to develop technical riding skills, build physical resilience, and promote team cohesion in a challenging outdoor environment.
The riders covered a variety of cross-country and downhill trails; ranging from established green, blue, and red runs, to more demanding routes, such as the descent from the summit of Pointe des Mossettes and the scenic trail around Lac de Montrionde. The diverse and technical terrain tested both fitness and skill, providing a real sense of adventure throughout the week.
A key training milestone was reached during the exercise,
Expedition group photograph on the summit of Pointe des Mossettes on the Switzerland border
Sgt Handley enjoying the trails that ‘Super Morzine’ Has to offer
when eight personnel successfully achieving their Mountain Bike Foundation (MBF) qualification. Those who were already qualified took the opportunity to gain logbook days and valuable experience towards their Mountain Bike Trail Leader (MBT) qualification.
Beyond the physical challenge, the expedition
fostered camaraderie, personal development, and professional growth. It also provided a powerful reminder of the value of adventurous training in developing adaptable, resilient, and mission-ready soldiers.
Exercise NORTHERN ENDURO SPROCKET 25 proved to be not only a test of endurance and technical capability, but also a celebration of the adventurous spirit of 102 REME. It was, without question, a fantastic week enjoyed by all.
Achieve EngTech, IEng, or CEng status through a dedicated route. With a streamlined application process, costs reimbursed by REME and eligibility for the Engineering Professional Registration Award (EPRA) - now is the ideal time to get professionally registered.
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Apply today For support contact our Defence Liaison O cer dlo@imeche.org
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A member of 102 REME and 1 REME taking in the views
Capt Saint, Sgt Handley, WO2 Roberts and Cpl Schubeler taking a break and an opportunity for a group picture
SSgt Edem Siawor EngTech MIMechE
REME Corp Team Table Tennis Tour –
Ex APACHE SPINNER 25: New York
and Washington DC. 13 – 24 July 25
WScribe: Cpl Pachuau IC REME Table Tennis Media and promotion
hen most people think of Army exercises, they imagine drills, discipline, and dusty boots. However, for Exercise SPINNING STALLION, the REME’s first Corps Table Tennis Tour, came spin serves, lightning-fast rallies, and some unforgettable moments on and off the table. As well as preparing the team for the first Army run Inter-Corps Championships in September 2025, SPINNING STALLION was a chance to participate in a table tennis tour experience that combined competitive spirit with camaraderie, all wrapped in the backdrop of two iconic American cities: New York and Washington, D.C.
From Barracks to Backspin
The tour kicked off in New York, with the team flying into JFK International Airport, New York on 13 Jul; a city that never sleeps. We were hosted at Westchester Table Tennis Center, known for its serious Table Tennis competitions and where world Parkinson Championships are held. Walking in, the energy was electric; a huge hall with rows of 20 tables, the sharp sound of balls pinging off paddles; it felt like stepping into a different kind of battlefield.
Representing the REME, there was a sense of pride walking in wearing our tour T-shirt. However, that didn’t stop the locals from giving us a run for our money. The team learnt quickly from being trained by and playing some of the top players in New York. The Army teaches you to not back down from a challenge, and the challenges on these tables were no exception.
Whilst in the city, amidst the busy playing schedule the team managed to find time to attend an educational visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and the National Museum of the American Indians organized by Cpl Tek Gurung.
Washington: Precision, Power, and Patriotism
Next stop: Washington, D.C. After a 4 hour bus ride, the team finally arrived in D.C. The atmosphere here was a little more formal; fitting for the capital. We played in a facility that had produced top players in America, and it showed. The level of play kicked up a notch, and so did our focus.
One of the highlights for me was seeing the club’s top junior player, an 11-year old, beat a very experienced REME team player. The match had everything; fast exchanges, fist bumps, a near dive to save a point and a crowd that started cheering us on. It was a good comparison of Army life: resilience, strategy, teamwork, and grit.
Team members with the BLACK BIRD – Udvar-Hazy Centre Washington DC
The team managed to fit in another educational visit in the form of a tour of the White House, where we had the opportunity to go inside and see where the President conducts business, and a long but insightful walk to Arlington National Cemetery where we witnessed changing of the guard at the tomb of the “Unknown Soldier”.
More Than Just a Game
What stood out most during this tour wasn’t just the competition - it was the connection. Whether it was bonding with fellow soldiers over postmatch meals, or trading tips with civilian players who loved the game as much as we did, this tour reminded me that table tennis is more than just a sport. It’s a bridge; between people, between places, and even between different walks of life.
Representing the REME and Army in a setting like this felt special. It was about showing discipline in a different form, showcasing respect, and bringing our team spirit off the base and into the community.
Final Serve
Looking back, this Table Tennis tour was one of the most unexpectedly rewarding experiences of my time in service. It was fast-paced, full of laughs, a few humbling defeats, and a lot of heart. New York and Washington gave us the venues, but it was the people, the players, the organizers, and my fellow teammates who made it truly unforgettable. If you ever get the chance to blend service with sport, take it. You never know what kind of stories, or spin shots, you’ll come home with.
REME Table Tennis is a new sport formed in the latter end of 2024. If you would like to get involved, please find us on Instagram @reme_table_tennis, or on the contacts here: Chair: Capt Matt Hutson matthew.hutson101@mod.gov.uk
Team Captain: Cpl Samir Thapa Samir.Thapa113@mod.gov.uk
Think your playing days are behind you, think again.
✔ Over 30 years old
✔ Regular or Reserve
✔ All standards welcome – from seasoned vets to total beginners.
Enjoy rugby the way it is meant to be played.
Whether you are a former player keen to keep competing, or new to the game and looking for a fresh challenge, we welcome you to join for the 2025/26 season. Interested? Contact:
REME Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu –Representation at the Highest Level – Las Vegas Edition
Scribe: Captain John Woodman
REME continues to be represented at the highest levels of our sport. Months of rigorous training camps –supported by the Army through specialist training days with elite Athletes, as well as both domestic and international camps – have enabled our Athletes to compete at the very top, including the World Masters, one of the most demanding events where most competitors are full-time athletes or Instructors. For REME soldiers to step onto that stage and win matches, despite balancing operational commitments and time away on exercises, reflects the professionalism, resilience, and growing quality of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) within the Corps, Army and across the UK.
This has only been possible through the generous support of Indigo Fitness, providing strength and conditioning resources and innovative performance analysis, combined with financial backing from the Corps. Without this commitment, opportunities such as these would be almost unachievable. Sport remains a vital part of the Army offer, with opportunities across almost endless disciplines – you simply need to pick a sport that inspires you. As with all of
these Over-Seas Visits (OSVs) there is also usually scope to experience some local culture!
Recent highlights for REME BJJ include REME Athletes winning the Army Championships and proudly representing both the Army and Corps at the European Championships in Lisbon. The size and reach of REME allows us to achieve broad representation across Army-level sporting events – all it takes is showing up, committing yourself, and getting noticed.
Looking ahead, we are planning a series of Corps-led grassroots training events, complementing the bi-annual Army-led BJJ skills course (loaded on Target). The REME Martial Arts Association is determined to maximise participation, with regular training already taking place in Lyneham’s main gym, as well as in major establishments across the UK. There are also opportunities to train overseas, including on camp in Episkopi, Cyprus, and even on certain deployed exercises.
If you are interested, have questions, or need any assistance, simply search for REME BJJ on Defence Connect or drop me an email – I’ll be more than happy to help.
Sgt Jamie Pritchard centre REME flag, Capt John Woodman right side of REME flag
REME Development Ice Hockey Defeats Royal Signals Development team in Strong Display
Scribe: WO2 Rossiter
On Wednesday 3rd September, the REME Development Ice Hockey team delivered a commanding performance against the Royal Signals Development team at Swindon Ice Rink, securing a 4–1 victory in an exciting and hard-fought encounter.
REME came out with intensity from the opening face-off; quickly establishing control of the game. Their teamwork paid off early, as LCpl Karl Hughes netted the first of four unanswered goals in the first period. Cfn Cian Moore, Cfn Bradley Hodges and Cfn Emma Hutton also found the back of the net. It was a dominant showing that set the tone for the remainder of the match.
The game featured all the hallmarks of competitive military ice hockey; some sharp passes, strong defensive play, and plenty of physicality. Both teams demonstrated impressive commitment, with some heavy collisions and determined efforts on both ends of the rink.
The Royal Signals responded in the second period with a goal of their own, showing resilience and improved structure.
However, REME maintained composure and saw out the remainder of the game with a disciplined defensive effort, denying any further scoring opportunities. The final score line reflected REME’s strong start and solid all-round team performance.
This match marked another positive step in the development of REME Ice Hockey, which continues to grow in both participation and performance. The sport provides an excellent opportunity for soldiers to stay active, develop teamwork, and enjoy the fast-paced, high-energy environment of ice hockey.
REME Development Ice Hockey is open to all ranks and skill levels, from experienced players to complete beginners. Anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to get involved.
The development programme runs most Wednesdays at the Swindon Ice rink. For more information or to express interest in joining the REME Ice Hockey programme, please contact WO2 Tom Rossiter at RHQ.
Professional Recognition Awards
The REME Arms School is a City & Guilds qualification provider for Professional Recognition Awards (PRAs). As such, it can offer the Level 4 Licentiateship (LCGI), Level 5 Affiliateship (AFCGI), Level 6 Graduateship (GCGI) and Level 7 Membership (MCGI) awards in Engineering to REME personnel who meet the criteria set out below.
The awards are Regulated Qualification Framework (RQF) accredited qualifications which enable candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills within any sector or role. City and Guilds are the experts in accrediting work‐based achievement. Those achieving these awards will be entitled to use an appropriate, internationally recognised post‐nominal: Licentiateship, Affiliateship, Graduateship and Membership. They may also assist candidates working towards higher level qualifications.
Successful candidates will receive two certificates from a PRA: A City & Guilds award (which entitles the holder to use post nominals) and a Regulated Qualification Framework award. These awards are part of the PRA scheme from City & Guilds that is recognised in civilian industry. They are vocational qualifications based upon your experience and expertise.
The awards are offered under Royal Charter.
Licentiateship – Level 4 – £123.00
REME personnel who have attained 2 years substantive Cpl and have completed all Phases of the JNCO ALDP (MT/ME)/CLM training are eligible for the Level 4 – Licentiateship (LCGI) award in Engineering.
This is comparable to Higher Level Apprenticeships and Certificates of Higher Education.
Graduateship – Level 6 – £160.00
REME personnel who have attained 2 years substantive WO2 and who have completed all phases of the WO/ALDP (ME)/CLM training are eligible for the Level 6 – Graduateship (GCGI) award in Engineering.
This is comparable to a Bachelor’s Degree.
Affiliateship – Level 5 – £153.00
REME personnel who have attained 2 years substantive Sgt and who have completed all Phases of the SNCO ALDP (MT/ME)/CLM training are eligible for the Level 5 –Affiliateship (AFCGI) award in Engineering.
This is comparable to Diplomas of Higher Education and Foundation Degrees.
Membership – Level 7 – £195.00
REME personnel who have attained two years substantive Major and who have completed all parts of the ISC (L) training are eligible for the Level 7 Membership (MCGI) award in Engineering.
This is comparable to Master’s Degree and Postgraduate Certificate.
Benefits
The Licentiateship, Affiliateship, Graduateship or Membership PRA recognises the individuals experience and expertise in the vocational field of Engineering. They allow you to gain valuable recognition for your professional and academic development within the REME and are widely recognised in outside industry.
E‐Certificates
City & Guilds have created E‐Certificates as well as issuing hard copies of certificates. E‐Certificates are globally accessible, secure and completely reliable. This means that employers can validate a potential employee’s qualification certification quickly and securely.
Eligibility
These qualifications are available for all REME trade groups. To qualify applicants must be either a Regular currently serving in the Army or a Veteran who has left within the last two years. Standard Learning Credits cannot be claimed for these awards.
Application Guidance
Current serving Regulars interested in applying for the PRAs listed, should do so by using the on line App available via MODNet SharePoint, PRA Application. Veterans within two years of having left the service should e‐mail their enquiry to the Applications details as shown below.
Additionally, as part of your online application you will be required to:
• Regulars, please provide clear evidence of seniority (JPA printout/screenshot is acceptable) as proof you have achieved the appropriate rank with two substantive years’ experience. This must clearly show name/service number and be uploaded as part of your online application.
• Regulars, please provide clear evidence of requisite training (JPA printout/screenshot is acceptable) as proof you have successfully completed the appropriate level of CLM or ALDP equivalent. This must clearly show name/service number and be uploaded as part of your online application.
• Veterans must please provide copies of your discharge documentation / Certificate of Service.
• Please note, no payments are to be made until you have received approval confirmation of your application. Partial payments cannot be accepted and will be rejected. Applicants will be invited to re‐apply with the correct amount.
Applications
• REME Regulars to apply please use the guidance within DIN: REME ARMS SCHOOL Professional Recognition Awards 2025‐26
• REME Veterans (within two years of having left the Army) to apply please forward your enquiry to:
remerhq-corpssocialmedia@mod.gov.uk
Use a standalone camera
! Shoot RAW (if you can edit this) or JPEG.
! Do not use in-built filters.
! For a shallower depth of field open the aperture and zoom in.
Use your smartphone
! Never digital zoom.
! Don’t use computational photography modes. Shoot natural and edit later.
OR
What We’re Looking For:
! Use natural lighting, smartphones don’t cope well in the dark.
! Clean your lens.
! Keep subjects face towards the light.
Are you ready to lead from the front?
REME Rugby League is seeking a passionate, experienced, and driven individual to take on the role of Head Coach. This is your chance to inspire, develop, and lead a team of talented players to success on and off the field.
**Application Deadline: 19 December 2025**
• Proven coaching experience in rugby league.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• A commitment to developing players’ skills and fostering team spirit.
• The ability to represent REME Rugby League with pride and professionalism.
• A deep understanding of the game and tactical expertise.
How to Apply:
What We Offer:
• The opportunity to work with a dedicated and talented team.
• Support from a passionate rugby community. A chance to shape the future of REME Rugby League.
• The pride of representing the Corps in a competitive and rewarding environment.
If you have what it takes to lead the REME Rugby League to new heights, we want to hear from you!
Email your interest and cover letter detailing your experience and vision for the team to: Nathan.Green283@mod.gov.uk – REME Rugby League Team Manager
Be the driving force behind REME Rugby League’s success. Apply now and make your mark!
Special Devices – The AVRE
By Zoe Tolman, Museum Archivist
Last time we looked at various devices used to clear out obstacles in a much safer way for the Sappers involved.
One of these, the Goat, was fitted to the Assault Vehicle Royal Engineers (AVRE), and in fact there were many variants of this particular tank modification.
The primary motivation for the AVRE was the same Dieppe raid which inspired the previous article’s explosive modifications. Engineers had been greatly obstructed in their work by the heavy rate of machine gun fire on the beaches, and it was decided that those RE units with armoured formations should also have some sort of armoured vehicle to protect both them and their stores. Interestingly, more modern variations of the AVRE went by the name of Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers instead, after some initial
confusion as to the meaning of the acronym.
In 1942, the first AVRE prototypes were made, based upon the Churchill tank. This was suggested due to its pannier doors on the side which would allow Engineers to carry out their work without necessarily leaving the protection of the vehicle, or at least to do so within cover. A fake door on the other side of the opening and aprons on both doors provided further shielding. Later designs considered both the Sherman and the Ram, but the Churchill proved the most suitable foundation. Despite initial designs and modifications already being made, it turned out that Shermans simply weren’t available for the AVRE role and focus turned to the Ram instead.
This however had ‘inferior obstacle crossing ability, smaller crew space, lighter armour’ than the Churchill, and it was also noted that the side doors had worse placement than on the Churchill and there was generally less available stowage space.
Stowage space in the AVRE was increased by removing the partitioning in the hull, as well as the ammunition bins. The turret basket was also removed and the seats suspended from the turret itself instead. New storage compartments were then put in which could stow up to 36 cubic feet of engineer stores – explosive charges, detonators, cordex fuse, primers, and various other equipment depending on the job in hand – and brackets mounted on either side of the tank for different special devices, such as the Goat, to be fitted to.
Focus then turned to arming the AVRE with a standard obstacle clearing device, the Petard motar. To try and speed up development, trials were made at first with the 20lb anti-tank bomb already used with a 29mm spigot mortar. However, the explosive amount within this bomb wasn’t considered strong enough for demolition work - for just a 3ft breach in a 6ft reinforced concrete wall, it took a whole 14 rounds. They therefore decided instead to develop as large a round as possible which could still safely loaded and fired.
They came up with the ‘Flying Dustbin’. This took the form of a light metal warhead 9” diameter by 8.5” long, with a much thicker back plate further reinforced by 6 stiffening ribs, and all then fitted onto a standard 29mm spigot mortar bomb driving tube which contained the fuse and propellant charge. The war-head itself was filled with a mixture of two types of explosives with a total charge weight of 26lb (over 3 times as much as the first bomb), while the whole dustbin weighed in at 40lbs.
The recoil from this however was considered too strong to fit to the turret ring of the Churchill with a fixed spigot,
The Churchill AVRE
An AVRE being dropped off for repair
and so a recoiling one was mounted instead. When cocked, the spigot remained in its recoiled position, upon firing it would fly forward into the driving tube of the dustbin and detonate the propellant cartridge, and the force from this would then put it back into position ready for the next round to be loaded. During testing, 9 rounds were sufficient to blow a 12ft wide gap in a 6ft reinforced concrete wall, allowing the Churchill to pass through with ease.
They further designed variants of the Petard for different roles. For example, a timed fuse in the dustbin meant the explosives could be used to clear antitank minefields; an AVRE firing three rounds of dustbin, moving 50ft between each round, was capable of clearing a path 28ft wide through 90ft of minefield. Also, firing the original spigot mortar bomb filled with 8.5lb of smoke mixture instead could be used to create a large smoke cloud very quickly.
Once the initial testing was over, the Department of Tank Design drew up the designs and passed them over to REME in 79th Armoured Division to carry out the conversions and create the next round of AVRE prototypes in June 1943. The instructions were carried out with a few amendments of their own, notably the retention of the turret basket, which were later approved and adopted into the final design in September. Over 600 AVsRE were produced during the war, including an initial 108 converted by REME in time for the D-Day landings, where they proved incredibly successful.
REME Women Football Trials
Whether you are an established player or have limited Unit football opportunities for females, REME Women are looking for REME Soldiers and Officers for the Corps team this season.
Fill in the form by Scanning the QR Code or at the link.
Details of trials will follow on in an email to players. http://Bit.ly/REMEWPlayer
Ballistic data for the Flying Dustbin
A prototype petard on stand used for firing trials
Potteries & District Monthly Newsletter, October 2025
Scribe: Maurice Hope, Photo’s John Hubbert & REME Media
REME Breakfast Club - Saturday the 4th saw the North Staffs REME Breakfast Club come together at The Hungry Horse in Meir. For whatever reason only eleven hearty souls attended and enjoyed a breakfast together followed by our in-house raffle that this month raised £45; this to be added to the current total of £475 which will be handed over to the Corps Charity at the end of the year. With two months still to go we should easily top the £500 mark.
Brian Billings - Tuesday the 7th saw a large branch turnout for the final parade of our branch Secretary Brian Billings whose obituary has appeared in the Craftsman. The funeral service took place at Bradwell Crematorium and the Chapel was completely chock-a-block with the bulk of the branch members having to stand in the Vestry; a mark of how well he was thought of in his own community as well as the branch. A uniformed presence was provided by S/Sgt Graham Smithers from our Regular twinned unit from Beacon Bks in Stafford, which was much appreciated by the family.
Monthly Lunch Event - This month we returned to one of our favourite venues on Tuesday 14th, The Rose & Crown in the village of Stanley, on the edge of the Staffordshire Moorlands.
Ten members attended and raised the sum of £40 from the
in house raffle to go towards branch funds.
On Tuesday the 9th of December we will return to this venue for our last outing of the current year when we host our branch Christmas Jumper Buffet lunch; which this year will see the sum of £200 placed behind the bar so that those present can enjoy a drink on the donation made to the branch from the estate of the late branch member, and one of the very first ladies to wear our cap badge during the war, Mrs Margaret Paling, who passed away early in the year aged 100.
The Corps Freedom of Wokingham parade saw our branch represented by branch Standard Bearer Mr Gil Mould, marching on the parade and our branch Vice President Lt Col John Edwards OBE and his good lady Rosemary viewing from the less energetic comfort of the seated spectator’s area.
Monthly Branch Meeting -There were 12 members in attendance at our branch meeting on the usual fourth Tuesday of the month, held in the Conference Room of the Weathervane Hotel, Lysander Road, Meir, with £22 being raised in our bottle raffle, which this month was won by a delighted branch chairman Mr Ian Webb.
Any ex or serving members of the Corps in the North Staffordshire / South Cheshire area will be made most welcome if you can join us at the above venue.
Gil Mould at Wokingham
John and Rosemary Edwards
Peter Tighe wins a bottle
Joan Martin takes the biscuits
John Wright, diabetic wins the sweeties!!
John wins the Maltesers
Association
#Winch to the Wall 2025
We will remember them
We
In 2017, and the finest traditions of the Recovery trade, an idea was put forward to have a memorial wall for Recy Mechs no longer with us. Where they could be remembered by a simple name plaque. It stands as a lasting memorial to all Recovery Mechanics and testament to the camaraderie and Esprit de Corps that every Recy Mech has for their trade. It was funded by members of the Recovery Training Wing (RTW), the wider Recovery Mechanic family and other benefactors. But because the wall is located inside the wire at MOD Lyneham, non-serving folk have not been able to easily visit (for obvious reasons).
This is where the branch stepped in to organise an official trip so that members of the branch and families of deceased Recy Mechs could visit the memorial wall, but what to call the event?
Everyone has heard of “Ride to the Wall”, an event for motorcyclists from all over the country to support the National Memorial Arboretum, well if its good enough for them its good enough for us, so “Winch to the Wall” was born, although no actual winching is involved much to the disappointment of some members!
We wanted to make the day as special as we could for all those attending, so we needed more than just a visit to the wall. The REME Museum were approached and agreed to organise a guided tour around the Roger Jones MBE hanger; which houses the
Families remembering their loved ones at the Recovery Mechanic Memorial Wall
will remember them
Scribe: John Sibley
historic vehicle collection and the main museum galleries. We descended on the REME museum in force on the 6th September. Having sustained ourselves in Crowns café and had the obligatory H&S briefing we were ready to go. We all moved to the Roger Jones MBE hanger where we were split into 2 groups. Group one reboarded the minibuses and went over to visit the wall at the RTW while group 2 had a guided tour of the historic vehicles. After the groups had completed both activities, we moved back to the main museum building and a leisurely stroll to see the REME Corps history displays. It was a very real pleasure to be able to assist the families of our deceased comrades that were able to attend. It was an emotional day for the parents and Brother of someone who went far to early and for the Son and Daughter of a Recy Mech long passed. I hope the experience evoked memories of happy times with lost relatives and the knowledge that no matter what, they will be remembered by the members of their beloved trade. And finally, the thanks. To the REME museum for
collaborating with the branch in this endeavour, especially Claire and Fi, Maj Ron Karby, Shane Hallett, Sgt Paul Bruce, Stu Martin, Ian Macdonald and anyone else who helped with the planning and execution of the inaugural Winch to the Wall. But most importantly the biggest thank you goes to all those who attended and supported the branch and families, I hope you all enjoyed it and here’s to the next one.
Hanging on his every word, Shane Hallett gives a masterful performance in the Roger Jones MBE Hanger
The Bow Shackle Ball 2025
Scribe: John Sibley
On the first weekend in October the Recovery Mechanic branch of the REME Association held its annual Bow Shackle Ball. It was held at the Derby Mickleover Hotel, and we were thrilled to welcome 76 people to the ball; including our guests of honour, Colonel REME, Col Iain Wallace OBE ADC and his lady Wife Claire. We also welcomed Babs Harris, Chief Executive of the REME
Charity and Misty McCready, REME Association Development Officer.
Most of the guests arrived at the hotel on Friday 3rd October, ready to begin the festivities. That evening saw an informal gathering where old friends were reunited over ‘one or two’ small pale sherries and sausage rolls. Late arrivals were met with a welcome and some fun challenges for ‘tardiness on parade’. Map reading competences and planning skills were tested before they could finally relax. All of which was, obviously taken in the playful manner for which they were intended, with some equally playful reply’s, I’ll leave that one there I think!!
The branch held its AGM on the Saturday afternoon with the available committee members sitting in reverence. We had a good attendance and, as always, a live video link for members to join the meeting who could not be there in person was available. A selection of branch merchandise was also available for members to buy at special Bow Shackle Ball rates and as Recy Mechs like a bargain this went down very well.
And so, to the ball. We assembled for pre-dinner drinks and formal photographs at 1800hrs, dressed in our finest, all of our ladies looked spectacular as always and no two dresses were the same (Phew). First up were formal photographs, Ian Macdonald very kindly donated his time, and not inconsiderable talent, as our photographer again this year. He did a sterling job and even managed to make our chairman look good, some feat that, by the way! I met our guest of honour and his Wife in the foyer and as the dinner bell sounded, we took our seats at the table. Being Recy Mechs, there was very little small-talk whilst food was on the table but between courses there was some lively banter in the room and a stack of impromptu photo opportunities that the eager Mr Macdonald and I pounced on. The food was great, the service excellent and the company second to none; I believe everyone enjoyed their dinner and got totally into the spirit of the evening. Bring on the after-dinner disco, but not
The Committee
Rose between two thorns
before raising a serious amount of money for charity. We had a silent raffle and a concurrent auction where mayhem ruled as the Auctioneers hearing aids clearly weren’t working as they should, but in the end, we made £2,074.15 which will be distributed to worthy causes. A massive thank you to all who donated prizes for both the raffle and auction, be very proud of yourselves, and to Mr Paul Shepard who donated a number of branch merchandise items free of charge. But especially to those that bought raffle tickets and bid in the auction, your generosity never ceases to amaze me.
The dance floor was packed from the first to the last song, even with people that wouldn’t usually dance (You know who you are!). We even managed to get a group photo of virtually everyone without injury, no mean feat either I’d say.
The following morning at breakfast with a few who were slightly jaded to say the least we all said our farewells for another year. A stunning success yet again for the main man behind its organisation, Chris Zeil, well done Chris, same again next year please. Speaking of next year, our
Bow Shackle Ball will be held at Ullesthorpe Court hotel and Golf Club on the 26 Sep 26, get the date in your diary and book early to avoid disappointment, more information on the website soon (https://recymechbranch.co.uk/).
See you all next year
Col REME and Claire, big winners on the night (eat your heart out Potteries branch!!)
You’ve been framed!
Packed dance floor
Obituaries
Honorary Colonel (Retired) Carl Boswell CBE, TD, CEng, FIStructE, FIAgE
Scribe: Brigadier (Retired) Martin Boswell CEng, FIMechE.
Carlton (Carl) Boswell retired from the Territorial Army (TA), now the Reserves, in 1984 as Honorary Colonel REME Specialist Units (Volunteers). His civilian role with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) as Her Majety’s Chief Agricultural Inspector and Director of Field Operations had become the priority. He had an incredible work ethic, was deeply interested in engineering, and was both scholarly and practical. He retired from HSE in January 1993 and was awarded Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the Birthday Honours listing that same year.
Carl was called up for National Service in December 1955. He was met at Honiton station and marched to No 2 Training Battalion, REME to start his basic training and become a Radar Mechanic. However, towards the end of the ten-week course, he was told that he had been recommended to attend the War Office Selection Board as a potential officer. He passed and moved to Mons Officer Cadet School from where he was commissioned in August 1956.
After commissioning he attended the REME schools at Arborfield and Bordon before being posted to 18 Command Workshop in Bovington, Dorset. His first job was as Assistant Adjutant, then Workshop Officer. His then Commanding Officer suggested that he could transfer to the Regular Army, but he declined. However, he had enjoyed his time in REME so much that he volunteered for the TA and was assigned to 87 Army Group Royal Artillery (AGRA) Field Workshop REME in Widnes.
He served in the TA for another 30 years, commanding numerous units, was posted to Western Command and Force Troops Headquarters and was ADEME (V) Sponsored Units and ADEME (V) East before being appointed Honorary Colonel REME Specialist Units (V). He was proud to be one of the founding members of the Broxhead Club, which was established to enable serving officers of the REME Reserve, both Sponsored and Independent, to maintain their interest in and association with the Corps.
In parallel to his volunteered service, he built a long and distinguished civilian career. Initially he worked as a director of the family business, then joined the Co-operative Wholesale Society (CWS) Architects department. In January 1968 he joined the Factory Inspectorate as a Specialist Engineering Inspector in the Civil Engineering Branch. The role required the production of clear reports and support with legal work as an expert witness. As such he acted in more than a hundred court cases, mostly in Magistrate’s Courts but sometimes at a higher level and in one case, the Battersea Funfair disaster, in the Old Bailey. In 1984 he was appointed Her Majesty’s Chief Agricultural Inspector and head of the service covering the Agricultural Industries - agriculture, horticulture, forestry and fish farming. From 1990, in addition to his Chief Agricultural Inspector role, he was also the Programme Director covering HSE field operations in all industries except Nuclear, Mining and Offshore. He was chair of several British Standards Institute (BSI) and International Standards Organisation (ISO) Committees and a member, or chair, of various European Economic Community (EEC) Committees and UK National Committees, Member of Governing Body of Silsoe Research Institute for Agricultural Engineering, and Chair of the Agriculture Industry Advisory Committee (UK). On retiring in 1993 he became a member of the governing
committee of the Welsh National Trust.
He always had a hobby or two on the go. Some quite complex and some rather expensive: radio modelling where he designed and built his own model planes, fly-fishing and tying his own flies, and playing the guitar. He and his Wife, Doreen, also kept bees and had they shared a passion for horticulture; creating stunning gardens and harvesting fruit and vegetables wherever they lived. He had the use of a darkroom during his period of National service; thus, the Army also created an appetite for photography that could only be satisfied by expensive cameras, a dark room and Adobe Photoshop. Delightfully, both photography and horticulture kept him busy until the end of his life.
Carl died peacefully, aged 92, on 21 October 2025. He is survived by his Wife Doreen, Son Martin married to Karen, Grandson Alex married to Jess, and two Great-Grandsons William and ‘Teddy’. Carl and Doreen had celebrated 70 years of marriage in June and I am so proud to call Carl my father.
Major (Retired) George Marshall REME
Scribe: Carolyne Marshall
My Father, Major (Retired) George Marshall REME, died on 6th September 2025 at the age of 93. He served from 1949, having graduated from Arborfield Army Apprentice School, until his retirement from regular service in 1979. He went on to work for Airtech Engineering Co. and Hunting Engineering Ltd.
During his long military career, he specialized in running workshops for the maintenance of military vehicles. He served in East Africa, Singapore and Malaya, West Africa, Aden, the British Army of the Rhine and Berlin. In the UK he was stationed in Tidworth, Chilwell and Northern Ireland. As well as tinkering with a vast number of different vehicles, George represented the Corps in competitive field hockey and pistol shooting. In the certificate of service written for him being commissioned in 1966, his Commanding Officer wrote: “Warrant Officer Marshall is a mature and intelligent man, well accustomed to
supervising men and running virtually independent workshops. Quiet in manner, he is nevertheless a good mixer, and is thoroughly reliable and dependable.”
In his retirement, he maintained his links with the military by working with the Buckinghamshire Army Cadet Force. He also organized the village Royal British Legion Remembrance Day ceremony in Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, for many years.
Dad thoroughly enjoyed his years in the REME and it was a vital part of his long and well-lived life.
Cpl Leonard JJ Fretter
Scribe: Alan Week - Chairman South Australian Branch 22826089 Corporal Leonard JJ Fretter, born 2nd March 1927 and passed away 28th October 2025 aged 98 years.
Len served with the East Yorks from 15th March 1945 until 28th April 1948.
From 26th October 1952 until 25th October 1955 Len served with the REME.
He saw service in Egypt, Austria and the UK.
He was a founding member of the South Australian Branch and was an active member until ill health saw his attendance diminish a little, but he always made sure that he turned out on Remembrance Day.
Len had a large Family consisting of 2 Sons, 1 Daughter, 6 Step-Sons, 1 Step-Daughter, 21 Grandchildren and 23 great Grandchildren.
Lest we Forget.
Death Notices
FINNEY – Kenneth Finney aged 70 died in October 2025. Service dates unknown.
FORSTER – Cpl (Retd) Peter Forster died on 5th October aged 79. Service dates 62-73.
GREEN – Captain Terry Green passed away on 5th October 2025 aged 82. Served with the Corps between 1961-1973.
HENDERSON – Tom Henderson died on 25th September aged 65 years old. He served for 11 years dates unknown.
LEMON – Col (Retd) Mervyn Lemon passed away on 5th October 2025 aged 82. Served with the REME between 19662000. Survived by wife, daughter, all grandchildren, nephews and nieces.
MURPHY – Sgt (retd) Sam Murphy passed away late September 2025 aged 40 years old. Service dates 03-17.
ROUSSEAU – SSgt (Rtd) Trevor James Rousseau died on 21st October 2025 aged 78 years old. Service dates were 62-87.
TINDAL – SSgt (Retd) Joseph Tindal died on 1st October aged 86. Service dates are Regular 60-82, Reserves 83-93.
WILLIAMS – Maj (Retd) John Williams died on 6th October aged 77 years old. Service dates 64-89.
Death Notice Requirements
In order to publish a death notice we require the following information: Surname, first name, rank, full date of death, ages and dates of service. An obituary with additional career and life information is welcome. To inform us of the death, please contact Pamela Bailey-Yates, Corps Welfare Assistant, Email: welfare@remecharity.org
An apology
In November’s edition of the Craftsman an article titled “Reflections on a great life of the REME family – Brigadier A D Ball CBE” contained an incorrect name under the photograph.
I apologise to the family for any upset this may have caused. The correctly titled photograph is shown below.
The REME Charity
The Trustees of The REME Charity acknowledge with sincere thanks the donations received during the month of SEPTEMBER. They also wish to acknowledge the regular subscriptions received from the Officers and Soldiers of the Corps and retired members of the REME Institution:
London Gazette
06 October No entries 14 October
REGULAR ARMY
Regular Commissions
Lieutenant Colonel S. M. D. HILL 548944 retires 15 October 2024 (Belated Entry)
Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
Major C. HAUGVIK 24826098 retires 24 October 2024 (Belated Entry)
Intermediate Regular Commissions
Captain P. EYRE 30201450 retires 9 October 2024 (Belated Entry)
21 October No entries
28 October
REGULAR ARMY
Regular Commissions
Lieutenant Colonel E. G. WATTERS 540072 retires 2 November 2024 (Belated Entry)
Major T. E. OWEN 25230332 retires 4 November 2024 (Belated Entry)
Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
Major M. SEYMOUR 25047972 retires 3 November 2024 (Belated Entry)
Major G. M. CORSIE 24725243 retires 1 December 2024 (Belated Entry)
Intermediate Regular Commissions
Major D. S. BURCHELL 25127441 retires 5 November 2024 (Belated Entry)
Captain M. W. HERON 30202626 retires 1 December 2024 (Belated Entry)
Intermediate Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
Major A. S. BROWNLIE 30123258 retires 15 November 2024 (Belated Entry)
Captain B. WATHEY 25089509 retires 8 November 2024 (Belated Entry)
If you would like to see how your money is spent, we welcome one or two observers at The REME Charity meetings. The meetings are held midweek, approximately every three weeks. If you would like to observe a meeting, please contact The REME Charity Secretary on ( Mil: 95481 4527 or Civ: 07936902415 in the first instance.
The REME Charity is here for both veterans and serving personnel in times of hardship or need. Contact via SSAFA ( 0800 731 4880 www.ssafa.org.uk or The Royal British Legion ( 0808 802 8080 www.britishlegion.org.uk or your Unit Welfare if serving. All enquiries and information is dealt with in the strictest confidence. If you wish to discuss any benevolence need you can contact us on ( 07936902415, welfare@remecharity.org.
Anyone wishing to leave a legacy to The REME Charity, which is exempt from inheritance tax, can add a codicil to their will. Our registered
More information regarding Corps Mess Functions can found by scanning the QR Code, or by accessing the ‘REME Connect’ website or alternatively email; REMERHQ-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk for all general enquiries. All dates correct at time of printing, please check your monthly Craftsman magazine for amendments.
Leaving the Regular REME?
Why not join the
Reserve?
Security Clearance
Holding SC can give you access to higher paid roles with some companies. As a reservist you maintain this accreditation.
Tax-free bounty
On satisfactory completion of your annual training, you receive a tax-free bounty of over £2k!!!
Your financial security
It makes financial sense. Get an annual tax-free bounty, plus pay, plus pension contributions. Supplement your salary or take the family on holiday.
Your support network
Changing careers is scary. Shared experience builds bonds and friendships like nothing else, it’s worth keeping hold of for when you need it most.
Your option to return (should you need)
Miss your old life?
It could take you 6-12mths to rejoin but as a Reservist, it’s a simple transfer form.
What’s in it for me?
Sport & AT
Whether you love sailing or skiing, as a reservist you get paid to participate in Regular Army sport and AT events.
Holiday pay
Sounds strange, but Reservists get holiday pay too (1 RSD for every 10 trg days).
Get early access to jobs not advertised to civies through the RAJA jobs website, REME only! Wellbeing
Settled to a new area? Reconnect with old Army friends or meet some new. We all need good people in our lives.
Rail card
Reservists get the Forces Railcard (1/3 off travel)
Pay
Either ¼ (2hrs) ½ (4hrs) ¾ (6hrs) or full (8hrs) Reserve Service Days (RSDs) pay @ rank and includes 5% X Factor
Career progression
As a Reservist, you also get annual appraisals, so career progression is still possible including SSE commissions.
Home to Duty Travel
Get your mileage paid for by the Army to attend all training nights and weekends (up to 50miles@MMA rates)
Rank
Pte-SSgt and 2Lt-Capts can normally transfer and keep their rank. WOs might be asked to revert (dependant on available PIDs).
Mobilised service
Between jobs? That’s ok because you can volunteer to be mobilised for overseas deployments and operations on the same pay and allowances as a Regular.
Pension abatement
No pension abatement for Reservists on RSDs. You receive all your pension; your Reserve pay; and contributions to your Reserve pension.
Keep learning
Reservists get access to SLC credits and DLE. Keep growing and learn new skills to support your new career ambitions.
Only 19 days each year
To qualify for your tax-free bounty, your annual commitment is19 days for your first 3 years (only 27 days afterwards).
Reduced ITRs
To qualify for your tax-free bounty each year, you only complete an SCR, ITR Behaviour’s and no annual camp (first 3 years only).
