Punchlines November 2015

The Magazine for the Paderborn Community November 2015

Remembrance Day

Sunday 8th November 2015

“Lest We Forget�

Paderborn Community - NEED TO KNOW! The Magazine for the Paderborn Community

For the latest accurate and official information • Paderborn GIO facebook Site

Contents

• Bfgnet.de/paderborn

Westfalen Garrison 4 & 5................

CommunityRemembrance Spotlight 6...................................

Day Anglo-German Club Celebrations 8 & 9...................................

10............... Churches & Chaplaincy Team HIVE 11................... hristmas1 NEED TO KNOW Need to Know 12 to 15...................................

Ex HECTORS ANGEL 16 & 17...............

20............... Puzzle Page ArmyBig Library Info Service 21.......................

Brew&Up 2013 BIG BREW UP 2015 22 & 23....................................

Fiji Day 2013 Dominica Fundraising 24.................................

Competitions Certificate Presentations 25 & 26..............

27................GOC Regional Command Visit Education 28 to 33.........

32................AWSome Garrison Newsletter Round Sports 35 to 37..................................

Winter UNIT UPDATES 41 to 48.....................................

Brit Fest

• HIVE Purple Pages Weekly Newsletter

- subscribe at: www.bfgnet.de/hive-europe/pppform.html

Find out whats happening! View our online calendar at:

www.bfgnet.de/paderborn/whats-on

Acknowledgements Dave Allen Army Press Office (Germany) Dominic King, Army Photographer Cpl Mark Webster RLC HQ BFG (SCS) Yvonne Neely 20X, Garrison and Paderborn Station All UPO’s, UWO’s and contributors to Unit submissions Chaplaincy, Community Services and Agencies Staff, parents & pupils of all contributing Garrison schools AWS John Buchan Afterschool Club All advertisers Our gratitude to everyone who submitted material and contributed to this months edition of Punchlines.

Copyright: PUNCHLINES is published bi-monthly by kind permission of the Commanders of 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade and Westfalen Garrison. It is not an official publication and the views expressed, unless specifically stated otherwise, do not reflect MoD, Army or Garrison policy and are the personal views of the author. It is self funded through advertising revenue.

No responsibility for the quality of goods or services advertised in the magazine can be accepted by the publishers or printers.

The Garrison Information Team reserves the right to omit, amend or edit any advertisement, article or picture at their sole discretion, without liability.

Produced and edited by the Garrison Information Office.

Printed by Druckerei Egeling Werbetechnik. Tel: 05253 940565

info@egeling.com

Paderborn Community

For the latest accurate and official information!

52 52 51..................................Garrison Contacts

Moving in and out of the Garrison - Check out this link for some handy information! http://bfgnet.de/paderborn/paderborn-pubs/index.php

CONTACT DETAILS Please send your stories, photographs and information for the next issue to: E-mail: punchlines.magazine@gmail.com

Telephone : Civ: 05254 982 2105 Mil: 94879 2105

Address: Punchlines HQ Westfalen Garrison Antwerp Bks, BFPO 16

If you want your story included in the Christmas 15 edition of Punchlines, please send it to punchlines.magazine@gmail.com

by Fri 13 Nov 15 Did you know that Punchlines is also available online? www.bfgnet.de/paderborn/publications 3

HQ Paderborn Station Commander Lt Col J Pott (MBE)

November brings an opportunity to reflect on the busy summer we have enjoyed in Paderborn. With training continuing both at home and away, it is good to see that so much has been going on within the wider service community.

The last couple of weeks have seen a number of high profile visits to the Station by members of the Royal family and Generals. Many have returned with fond memories of their time in Germany and have been hugely impressed with the innovation applied to projects, the improvement in streamlining processes and the real spirit of ‘one team’ regardless of which organisation you work for. Our guests have left with an enriched understanding of what the Station delivers and the contribution that you all continue to deliver. The messaging post-visits has been very positive.

Much progress has also been made when drawing on best practice across the Station and from external locations as we welcome new members to the Paderborn community. There is clear creativity and drive for progress across all of our supporting functions. Despite resource constraints in some areas, we are still rich in opportunities and there is no shortage of ideas to match the potential. As such, I am keen that Paderborn Station continues to develop and I promise to lead further improvements to the environment in which we work and live.

Finally, while the machine may never stop moving, it is important that we, both as individuals and as teams, take time to utilise the wide range of sporting and social facilities to relax, enjoy ourselves and spend time with our families and friends. Halloween has just been and gone, and Bonfire Night celebrations are just around the corner. I very much look forward to seeing you all there.

Paderborn Station Bonfire Night Thursday 5th November from 5.30pm

Best Guy Competition @ 6pm Bonfire Lighting @ 6.30pm Fireworks with Laser Light Show @ 6.45pm

Bad Lippspringe Sports Pitches FREE Transport & Admission

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Poster Competition Winner Home-Start Paderborn Mums & Tots Group

Remembrance Parade 2015 A Remembrance Parade will take place on Sunday 9th November at 1045hrs Outside Headquarters 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade and Headquarters Westfalen Garrison on Normandy Barracks, Sennelager.

Services begin at 1045hrs, please be seated by 1030hrs.

Please remember to dress appropriately and wear your poppy with pride.

Design the Christmas 2015 Punchlines Front Cover It’s that time of year again, the countdown to Christmas will soon be upon us.

The Garrison Information Office are thinking ahead to the Christmas 2015 edition of Punchlines and would like to invite the children of Paderborn Station to get creative and design our front cover.

The competition winner will be selected by Brigadier Ian Mortimer, Commander of 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade.

Your artwork should be A4 size, in portrait and without text.

Please put your name, age, school and contact details on the reverse.

Entries should be sent to: Punchlines Front Cover Competition, Garrison Information Office, HQ Westfalen Garrison, Antwerp Bks, BFPO 16

Entries must be received by Monday 9th November “Good Luck”

Christmas Posting Dates 2015 The advisory latest posting dates for mail being sent from Forces Post Office are:

UK

Worldwide Destinations

Letters & Packets (1st Class) - 14 Dec Letters & Packets (2nd Class) - 14 Dec Parcels - 09 Nov

Letters & Packets - 27 Nov Parcels - 21 Sep

European Destinations Letters & Packets - 07 Dec Parcels - 27 Nov

BFPOs in Europe Letters & Packets - 11 Dec Parcels - 27 Nov

Letters to Father Christmas* Last Posting Date - 30 Nov Send to: Father Christmas Santa’s Grotto Reindeer Land XM4 5HQ *Affix normal postage

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Spotlight On Our Community

Tell us about yourself.

Peter Amos BFG Vehicle Examiner

I was born and raised in a small North Gloucestershire village, and joined the Army in 1965 aged 15 as an apprentice Vehicle Mechanic. My regular service ended in 1980, before beginning my Civilian career with the National Express area works in Cheltenham. I later joined the MOD team as a Tech Officer at Ashchurch vehicle depot.

Upon moving back to Germany in 1987 I became employed with 57 Station Workshop, where I was promoted from Vehicle Mechanic to Inspector, and eventually Chief Inspector.

I remained here until 1994 upon redundancy. Before long, I began working with BFG at 3 Battalion Civilian Workshop as part of the Power Pack Repair facility. During my time there I was selected as a BFG Examiner, and followed the centralisation to Crocker Barracks in 1997, then again to Normandy Barracks in 2001. I have remained there until my recent retirement.

What is your role?

My role involves the statutory examinations of vehicles based upon the UK MOT and Host Nation TUV regulations.

What is your connection to working with the British Forces in Germany?

My wife is German, and seeing as though I spent almost nine out of my twelve years in BAOR/BFG I have become very used to Germany and the way of life over here.

What have being part of the British Army Community taught you?

I don’t believe it has so much taught me, but reminded me of my days when I was younger and living in Gloucestershire when there was tremendous community spirit. Unfortunately, this has declined over the years (as the village has expanded out of proportion since then). Being a part of the Paderborn Station community has revived my faith in community spirit, reminding me of how it was and should be.

What are your plans for the future?

Upon my retirement I plan to return to Gloucestershire for some time to visit my mother. However, I don’t have any firm plans at present so I am somewhat apprehensive - I just want to enjoy my retirement and see what comes my way.

What is your favourite thing to do here in Paderborn?

Paderborn, as a City, has plenty to offer but nothing specific springs to mind. After living here for almost twenty-eight years, I have seen most of the area and taken part in many activities. It has been nice to explore the area.

If you could be a V.I.P for the day, who would you be, and why?

I would like to be a film actor, for example: Harrison Ford, filming a scene for one of his films. The reason being is diversity, as many actors take on different roles. It is great how actors integrate into their different roles.

What three items can you not live without, and why?

1.

2.

3.

My wife (not that she is an item) for the support she has always given me.

English black tea (this is the best) - I am not a fan of any other types of tea.

My car so we can get around more accessibly.

If you were Station Commander for the day, what would you change or add, and why?

I would arrange a discussion day where all departments including all Military, Voluntary and Civilian-based (UKBC, LEC and Dependants), in order to help everyone understand how they fit into the operation of the Station.

Which would you prefer?

English or continental breakfast? Continental breakfast Afternoon Tea or Kaffee und Kuchen?

Kaffee und Kuchen Draught or bottled beer? Depends where I am Summer or Winter? Winter England or Germany? Both Car or motorcycle? Car Walking or cycling?

Walking Bratwurst or frikadelle? Bratwurst Ketchup or mayo? Neither 6

Tigers Charity Skydive The Tigers Freefall Parachute Display Team (Tigers FFT) consists of volunteers from various Battalions of the Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment. They perform displays throughout the country, the majority of which are carried out within the Regiments recruiting areas. The teams OC is Capt Ian Wicks, RCMO at 1PWRR based on Barker Barracks in Paderborn. In his current role, Capt Wicks deals with Wounded, Injured and Sick (WIS) personnel within the Regiment. In order gain an understanding of the services available to WIS soldiers, Capt Wicks visited the Personnel Recovery Unit (PRU) based in Sennelager, where he met with the 2IC, Capt Rodney Poulter. During a tour of the facilities, Capt Poulter mentioned that the PRU does not receive any military funding and therefore they are very reliant on fundraising events. This is something that Capt Wicks was able to relate to, as the Tigers FFT is also completely self-funded and the team knows exactly what it is like to keep pushing for sponsorships and donations. With this is mind, Capt Wicks set about organising a fundraising event to raise money for the PRU, as well as the Princess of Wales’ Benevolent Fund. What does a skydiving enthusiast think of in order to raise money, skydives of course!

On Saturday 3rd October, having never skydived before, 8 civilians from across BFG took part in the tandem skydive with the Tigers FFT, that took place at the Bad Lippspringe Parachute Centre. The idea was for those who wished to take part to raise a minimum of €300 each. Although the event was to predominantly raise funds for the PRU and the Princess of Wales' Benevolent Fund, BFBS' Misty McCready and Mike Howarth saw this as an opportunity to participate and also raise money for the BFBS Big Salute. Misty said, “I am doing the tandem fundraise for the BFBS Big Salute, which supports five outstanding Forces' charities - BLESMA, Blind Veterans UK, Combat Stress, FAB and Veterans Aid. These charities work tirelessly to support the Forces community and, as part of that community, this is about giving something back - one day I, my family, my children, or someone I know, might need their help.”

Mirroring Misty’s sentiments, Mike Howarth added, “I am here because Misty and Ian talked me into it. Misty placed a message on my Facebook page, so all my friends could see it and I couldn’t back out.” So how was Mike feeling before his jump? “I feel good. It is a sunny day, spirits are high and I am excited.”

Laura Morgan-Jones is a dependant of 1AMR, based on Dempsey Barracks in Sennelager. She saw the advert for the charity skydive event and mentioned to her husband that she thought it was a good idea, before she knew it her husband had her signed up to it. Laura said, “I’m feeling nervous, but as it is getting closer I am excited. I don’t think I will remember it very much, it is one of those experiences where you need to grab the memories quickly.”

After all the safety briefs, demonstrations and paperwork, the morning began with a display from the Tigers FFT. This was followed by the 8 tandem jumpers taking to the sky, on what was to be a beautiful sunny day. The whole experience was to divide the group in their opinions of jumping from a perfectly good plane, however that is 8 more people with one of the items on their Bucket List ticked off.

After her jump, Mrs Amanda Jones very honestly said, “I was really relaxed going up. I was second out of the plane and as I shuffled to the front and sat on the edge I suddenly became nervous. I was worried that I would forget what to do.” At the point of jumping out Amanda said, “I felt like I couldn’t breath. To be honest, the initial jump was a feeling I didn’t enjoy, I mean you’re just falling out of the sky!” Did Amanada enjoy any part of her experience? “I started to enjoy it once the parachute opened and we were floating about, enjoying the sites of Paderborn from a completely different view, I felt really good at this point. I am glad I done it and my Instructor, Brendan, was brilliant. I would like to say Thank You to all the guys.”

After everyone had completed their skydive, the team OC, Capt Ian Wicks, presented the 2IC of the PRU, Capt Rodney Poulter, with a cheque for £1254.80. This money will be used for the PRU Christmas function, which will give them the opportunity to extend the party invites to include families for the first time.

Information and updates by the Tigers FFT are available on at www.twitter.com/TigersFFT or www.thetigersfft.co.uk

Anglo-German Bonds Burning Bright Back in 1965, a small group of individuals developed an idea to form a society between British and German communities, which would further friendship and understanding between the two communities in Paderborn.

It was to also provide an insight to both the British and German traditions. The society was initially named The Society of Friends, with a committee consisting of six German and four British founders. In its first year, the society had in excess of fifty members join and was shortly after renamed the Anglo-German Club Paderborn.

The British presence within the Anglo-German Club Paderborn has fluctuated throughout the years, due to military duties and frequent postings; nevertheless, many Club events still are and will continue to be enjoyed by both the British and German communities. It has been fifty years since the founding of the Anglo-German Club Paderborn, and this year the Club celebrated their fifty years of friendship.

Alongside the Anglo-German Club Paderborn’s anniversary celebrations, was the 40th Anniversary of the TownTwinning Partnership between Paderborn and Bolton. The first connection between the two towns was in 1973 when the Bürgermeister of Paderborn, Herr Herbert Schweite, attended the Signing Ceremony of the Town-Twinning between Le Mans and Bolton. This resulted in discussions and great interest by the parties from both Paderborn and Bolton. In 1975, exactly forty years ago, an official ceremony was held where the Bürgermeister of Paderborn and the Mayor of Paderborn signed a Partnership Agreement, which marked the beginning of a friendship between the two towns.

Celebrations began on Friday 11th September with a performance, in English, of a play called ‘Heroes’, by Gerald Sibleyras, translated by Tom Stoppard and performed by the Bolton Little Theatre in the Paderborn Theatre, which was open to Club members, as well as the general public.

Members of the Anglo-German Club Paderborn and honorary guests were then invited, on Sunday 13th September, to attend a Church Service in the Paderborn Dom, followed by the official reception in the Historisches Rathaus (Historic Town Hall).

A four-piece orchestra called ‘Quartett Intermezzo - Dr. Martin’ (Anna Kulisiewicz-Martin, Caroline Martin, Martin Rudkowski and Dr. Wolfgang Martin) was playing as guests arrived to the reception, creating a friendly atmosphere ready for the formal proceedings. The Bürgermeister of Paderborn, Herr Michael Dreier, offered a very warm welcome to all, especially to HM General British Consul in Germany, Mrs Susan Speller, and the Mayor of Bolton, Mrs Carole Swarbrick, who had travelled to Paderborn for the event. Herr Dreier said, “The relationships between Paderborn and Bolton would not be as strong as they are without the continuous support of the Anglo-German Club Paderborn, especially the Treasurer of the Club, Herr John Greaves. The mere signing of certificates does not make these kinds of partnerships, they come alive by people meeting one another and developing friendships. The support of the Club is more vital now than ever, with the withdrawal of British troops on the horizon.”

Mrs Speller, who sits in the British Consulate in Düsseldorf, remained confident that the relations will not dwindle, “The good relations between Paderborn and the people of Great Britain will remain strong even after the withdrawal of British Forces. An incredible number of people attend the celebrations in Paderborn. It is very touching.” Over the years, many British people that have been stationed in Paderborn but have since long gone, still come back to visit.

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The German Chairman of the Anglo-German Club Paderborn, Herr Heinz Köhler, fondly remembered his two highlights of the Club, since taking up the position in 1995, “There have been many Anglo-German events over the years, but the two highlights for me have been: firstly, the Anglo-German Carol Service, which is a significant event in our calendars and takes place every year. It is an opportunity for both communities to come together and celebrate Christmas. Secondly, the 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade Homecoming Service, which was held in the Paderborn Dom last year. It was to welcome home soldiers from their time of service in Afghanistan, but to also remember those who had fallen. It demonstrated the close and deep bonds of friendship in one of the most gripping and moving services I have been to.”

The Mayor of Bolton, Mrs Carole Swarbrick, first visited Paderborn sixteen years ago, in which time she has seen a lot of changes as the city has developed and grown, she stated, “The one thing about Paderborn that has remained the same is the warm welcome we have been greeted with upon our visits. Bolton is proud to be in partnership with Paderborn.”

Herr Dreier presented Mrs Swarbrick a mounted certificate from the City of Paderborn, whilst Mrs Swarbrick returned the gesture with an engraved crystal glass plaque on behalf of the City of Bolton, in recognition of the 40th Anniversary of the twinning partnership. The pair then went on to officially sign a new ‘Supplement of Protocol’ partnership agreement, to seal the friendship between Paderborn and Bolton for many more years to come. During the various speeches, Herr Manfred Müller, Landrat Kreis Paderborn, clarified, There has been a clear change in Anglo-German relations over the last seventy years, but it is apparent today that good relations are strong; not least thanks to the help of the Anglo-German Club, which has been a fixed component of the social life between the two communities here in Paderborn.

Gratitude was given to the City of Paderborn and its surrounding areas for the organisation of the celebrations and for everyone’s continued support. The Sparkasse Foundation was given thanks, along with the Anglo-German Club Paderborn Treasurer, Herr John Greaves, and German Secretary, Mrs Heidi Johnstone. Members of the Club were recognised for their solidarity and loyalty over the years, as without them, there would not have been an endearing Club, here in Paderborn.

Events are held throughout the year for Club members, which is an opportunity to engage with the German community, learn about their culture and even strengthen command of the German language. If you would like more information about the Club, or are perhaps interested in joining then please email: info@dec-paderborn.de or tel: John Greaves (Treasurer): 05293 475, Heidi Johnstone (German Secretary): 05254 982 2723.

Churches in Paderborn Station St Christopher’s

St Peter’s

Sunday Worship @ 0900hrs including Junior Church

Sunday Worship @ 1100hrs including “SPLAT” Junior Church

(Dempsey Barracks)

(Barker Barracks)

Our Lady of Lourdes RC (Normandy Barracks)

Sunday Mass @ 1100hrs including Children’s Liturgy

For further information please contact any Chaplain

HQ 20 Armd Inf Bde

HQ Westfalen Garrison

Revd Mike Thomason CF

Gapped - Contact Bde Chaplain

Office: Mob:

Office: Mob:

05254 982 2051 01735 103404

05254 982 2033 01722 086348

20X-G1-CHAP-SNR@mod.uk

WestfalenGar-HQ-Chaplain@mod.uk

The Queen’s Royal Hussars

35 Engr Regt & 3 CS Bn REME

Revd Justin Bradbury CF

Revd Heather Rendell CF

Office: Mob:

Office: Mob:

05254 982 2966 01722 086315

QRH-HQ-PADRE@mod.uk

05251 101932 01735 205861

35ENGR-RHQ-PADRE@mod.uk

1st Bn Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment

Army Scripture Reader

Revd Neil McLay CF

ASR Ray Hendricks

Office: Mob:

Office: Mob:

05251 101274 01722 086347

1PWRR-HQ-PADRE@mod.uk

5th Battalion The Rifles Revd Fr Pip Smith CF Office: Mob:

05251 101559 01722 578097

5RIFLES-BHQ-PADRE@mod.uk

St. Peter’s Church 01756 280663

www.sasra.org.uk

The Chaplains are here to support those of all faiths and those who have none.

If your Unit is not listed above, please contact the Brigade Chaplain.

New HIVE Information Support Officers in Paderborn Station Following the departure of Paulini Laqere in June and Cassandra Thompson in October, both the HIVE in Sennelager and the HIVE at Barker Barracks have new HISOs in place.

Kelly Pickard joined the team at the end of July after moving to Paderborn with 1 Med Regt from Hohne Garrison.

Kelly spent the first few weeks working between both HIVEs, but has now assumed her permanent role in the HIVE at Barker Barracks, Paderborn.

Kelly says of her recent appointment, “After being a military wife and full time mum to my three wonderful boys for the last nine years, I’m now looking forward to the challenge of working in the Hive.”

Sam Crowther started volunteering with the HIVE at the end of June, after she visited the HIVE to source local information, being newlywed and living for the first time in Germany.

Whilst chatting with the HISO Cassandra, Sam mentioned that she was looking for something to do on an ad hoc basis whilst settling into life in Germany. Cassandra suggested helping out in the HIVE as that way she would not only meet new people but also learn her way around the local area and local systems very quickly.

Sam said, “I really enjoyed volunteering at the HIVE and meeting new people and I am so pleased that I have now become a staff member.”

The HIVEs in BFG/SHAPE and Brunnsum have recently come in line with HIVE UK and now sit under the umbrella of the Army Welfare Service.

As part of this transition the HIVE has started blogging to ensure that you are provided the very latest information on a range of topics. Sign up to your local Blog in Paderborn and Sennelager by logging onto www.paderbornhive.blogspot.com

The HIVE in Barker Barracks is open from Monday - Friday from 09:00-13:00.

Sennelager HIVE is open Mon-Fri from 09:00 -14:45.

Local Christmas Markets 2015 Paderborn 24th Nov - 23rd Dec

NEW from HIVE We are now blogging!

Sign up today for up to date information on what’s on in your local area.

You will find us at: www.paderbornhive.blogspot.com Supporting the Service Community

Schloss Neuhaus 4th - 6th December Bad Lippspringe 28th - 29th November Delbrück 28th - 29th November Bad Driburg 26th - 29th November

Pick up your Christmas Market Guide in Paderborn & Sennelager HIVE 11

Autumn - The Colourful Season

Rebasing

Summer has gone and the trees are beginning to show their beautiful coloured raiment. Shortly the leaves will begin to fall, and when it becomes humid, it can cause the streets, pavements and sidewalks to become slippery fairly quickly. It is now a very busy period of road cleaning and sweeping for ASP (Abfallentsorgungsund Stadtreinigungsbetrieb Paderborn), the cleaning department of City Council. About 900 kilometres of municipal roads and passages have to be cleaned. The nine road-sweeping-machines used by ASP start at 0600hrs and continue working until 2000hrs to ensure that the local environment and surroundings for drivers and pedestrians are clean, safe and comfortable to use.

As part of the Army 2020 restructuring, the presence of British Forces in Germany is vastly reducing as drawdown and rebasing are set in motion. The most relevant and up-to-date rebasing information can be found at:

However, each individual has their own responsility for the home and property. The pavement in front of each house is to be cleaned by the owner or the tenants, when necessary. Please do not just place the dust and leaves into the gutter, instead collect them and place them in your dustbin, or place leaves into the green biobin.

This is to enable ASP to focus on sweeping the roads, and allows yourself make a contribution to recycling.

If there are too many leaves (including those from your garden) for the biobin, you can bring them free of charge to one of the ASPrecycling plants, at the following of locations: An Der Talle (Opposite TOP-ZOO) Opening Hours: Mon - Fri, 0700-1830hrs & Sat, 0800-1500hrs Driburger Strasse (Near Barker Barracks) Opening Hours: Mon - Fri, 1230-1830hrs & Sat, 0800-1500hrs If you require any further information, please speak with your Estate Manager. Alternatively, contact ASP via tel: 05251 881 718, or visit the website: www.asp-paderborn.de (Available in English).

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www.bfgnet.de

The most recent information published about those of our community returning to the UK, whether as part of rebasing or a routine posting, includes:

Customs & Immigration - exportation of vehicles, expensive

goods, firearms and animals to UK , tax free purchases in BFG, duty free goods, and indicative levels of duty paid items.

Vehicles - importance of the VLO and LVLO and BFG deregistration process of vehicles.

Pets - outlines main requirements of scheme when returning pets

to UK, requirement of a pet passport and price list of carriages of commercial operators when travelling.

www.bfgnet.de/rebasing This part of BFGnet includes information about the areas that BFG personnel and their families may be returning to.

BFGnet is regularly updated. Be sure to keep yourself informed and don’t get caught out during this busy time.

NEED TO KNOW

Sunday Worship Times to Change

The number of churches in BFG are to be reduced to reflect the exodus of the BFG community to the UK. In order for the Royal Army Chaplains’ Department to provide continuity, and an appropriate level of service across the Garrison, there is a need to modify church timings. With effect from Sunday18th October 2015, the five churches across BFG offering Sunday Worship will be:

Our Lady of Lourdes, Normandy Bks, Paderborn: RC Mass at 1100hrs St Peter’s, Barker Bks, Paderborn: Sunday Worship at 1100hrs St Maximillian Kolbe, Catterick Bks, Bielefeld: Sunday Worship at 0900hrs and RC Mass at 1700hrs St Barbara’s, Mansergh Bks, Gutersloh: RC Mass at 0900hrs and Sunday Worship at 1100hrs St Christopher’s, Dempsey Bks, Sennelager: Sunday Worship at 0900hrs Whilst this may be an uncertain time for some, there is also the opportunity to celebrate the opening of the newly refurbished St. Barbara’s Church at Mansergh Barracks. Having undergone substantial refurbishment, it has created vibrant new spaces and accessible disabled facilities, together with a Quiet Space for personal prayer. Resources for world faiths are also available in this room.

Financial Aspects of Resettlement (FAR) Briefs Resettlement Centre Germany has moved from Herford to Normandy Barracks, Sennelager Building 85 (Next to AWS)

Contact: 05254 982 5448 Or Mil: 79 5448 Or: RCGermany@ctp.org.uk

Germany 2015 Financial advisors are engaged by the MoD to deliver these briefings.

The FAR briefings include the following topics: • • • • • • •

Understanding the advice market place Employee Benefits – Now and in the future Managing your Capital – Debt Management, Cash v Assets Investment Products – Risk & Performance Taxation – Income, Capital Gains, Inheritance Commutation – Resettlement, Life, EDP Scheme A talk by: The Forces Pension Society – www.forpen.co.uk

Open for all Service Leavers who are registered with CTP. Resettlement Centre Germany offers: CTW - Career Transition Workshops Guidance on career options Advice on resettlement training courses

FAR briefs are open to all military personnel and spouse throughout their career.

You do not have to be in Resettlement.

Attendance will not count against GRT for those in Resettlement.

To book, please contact Resettlement Centre Germany Tel Civ: 05254 982 5448 Tel Mil: 79 5448

Networking Workshop

From 0900 hrs – 1500 hrs

German CV Writing Workshop

Date

Location

CV Review Help with job applications Review cover letters Interview techniques refresher

Tue 10 Nov 2015

Paderborn

Wed 11 Nov 2015

Gutersloh

Venue 41 AEC, Alanbrooke Barracks, BFPO 22 Mansergh Hall, Mansergh Barracks, Gutersloh, BFPO 113

www.ctp.org.uk

German CV reviews German CV workshop

Barker Barracks Post Office

Registering a Business

Located in Building 7, Barker Barracks

Anyone who has a business or would like to set one up are reminded that it must registered in line with SO BF (G) 5206 & SI BF (G) 3230. Anyone contravening these may be liable for further action being taken.

Opening Hours Monday - Friday (0800hrs - 1530hrs) Counter Service Monday, Tuesday & Thursday (0900hrs - 1200hrs) (1230hrs - 1500hrs) Wednesday - (0900hrs - 1200hrs) (1230hrs - 1430hrs) Friday (0900hrs - 1200hrs) (1230 - 1400hrs) The Post Office is closed for lunch from (1200hrs - 1230hrs) daily

For further information contact the Housing Office Manager, Karen Jackson: Tel (mil) 79 2411 or (civ) 05254 982 2411.

Alternatively collect an information pack which are available at the HIVE.

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NEED TO KNOW

Increase in Kindergeld

All members of BFG who are receiving or have applied for German Kindergeld should be aware of the increases to the rates of payment that have recently been announced. The first increase of 4 Euros per child per month will be paid from 1 September but will be backdated to 1 Jan 2015. Back payments for the period 1 Jan to 31 August will be paid as a lump sum in October. The second increase of 2 Euros per month will be made effective and paid from 1 Jan 2016.

For ease, the current and revised rates (prior to deductions made for UK Child Benefit received) are shown below:

Current Rate

Rate from 1st Jan 2015

Rate from 1st Jan 2016

1st & 2nd Child

€184 per month

€188 per month

€190 per month

3rd Child

€190 per month

€194 per month

€196 per month

4th Child

€215 per month

€219 per month

€221 per month

These increases will take effect automatically, so you do not need to take any action. For those who received Kindergeld earlier this year but are no longer entitled to receive it, the outstanding payment will be sent to the bank account known to the Familienkasse.

RMP Community Engagement Team

Due to the changing face of the BFG landscape there is a change to the way that the Royal Military Police will be delivering policing across the community. Community engagement remains a key component and has led to the formation of the Community Engagement & Intelligence Team (CE&I) a unique team that will focus on liaising with the community and establishing their policing requirements coupled with directing police activity in to the locations it is required.

CE&I will analyse trends in what is being reported to the RMP and ensure that resources are targeting the right places at the right time.

A key part of the role will be to work with the community to provide a safe and enjoyable place to live by liaising with all parts of the community from schools and youth groups across the spectrum to local bar owners and unit commanders.

Members of the team are qualified to advise in crime reduction matters and are available to give general policing advice when requested, additionally there is a key focus on working with partner agencies such as the German Civil Police (GCP) in order to deliver a first class service to the community.

The CE&I Team is led by Sgt Jay Strickland and has elements working within both Paderborn and Gütersloh areas to ensure coverage of the whole BFG community, for more information or to request assistance for routine matters please call us on the following number:

Civilian: 05254 9822467 or Military: 94879 2467 For all crime and incident reporting continue to use existing numbers for the RMP Ops Room, Germany:

Routine Calls - Civilian: 05254 982 2223 or Militray: 94879 2223 Emergency Calls - Civilian: 05254 982 2222 or Military: 94879 2222 In an emergency when you require an immediate police response always call 110.

Health Visitor Office Change of Telephone Number The telelphone number for the Health Visitor Office, located in Barker Barracks Medical Centre, has been updated with immediate effect:

Civilian: 05251 101 142 or Military: 94879 3142

Use of Social Media The use of social media is accepted by Defence and, when used appropriately, should be encouraged. The issue we face is not why or how we use social media, but how well we use it.

There is a guide that tells you what is and isn’t acceptable social media behaviour for military personnel at the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/34247/social_media_info_card.pdf

BFBS Germany Big Salute The BFBS Germany Big Salute charity auction will be held on Friday 13th November.

Are you able to donate a ‘money can’t buy item’?

BFBS are currently looking for some great items to be donated, example items from last year included ‘Command a Warrior’, ‘Live like a General’, ‘4 Scots Boxing Night’ etc These ‘money can’t buy’ type items go down so well with the audience and help to raise money for BLESMA, Combat Stress, Blind Veterans UK, FAB and Veterans Aid. If anybody has an item suggestion, please email BFBS at: germany@bfbs.com Full details of the 5 Forces Charities can be found at www.bigsalute.com

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Leaving Children at Home Alone (NSPCC “Home Alone" Guidance 2011)

As a parent, caring for your child is your number one priority. But sometimes you might have to spend time away from your child, whether it’s to go to work, go out for the evening or just to nip out to the shops.

There’s no legally set age at which it’s OK to leave your child at home alone. It depends on whether yours is mature enough to cope in an emergency and feels happy about being left alone. Children mature at different ages and every child is an individual.

Your children rely on you to protect them and you are responsible for making sure that they are happy and well looked after in your absence.

Is it ever safe to leave your young child alone? What are the dangers and risk of leaving yours at home alone?

There are many important things to consider before you decide to leave a child alone. These include: • • • • •

The age of the child The child’s level of maturity and understanding The place where the child will be left How long, and how often, the child will be left alone Whether or not there are any other children with the child.

You are the best judge of your child's level of maturity and responsibility. Some current guidance to consider: • •

•

Never leave your baby or young child home alone, not even for a few minutes, regardless of whether they are awake or asleep. The risks are too dangerous – what if you were delayed or your baby was sick?

If your child is under 12, they may not be mature enough to cope with an emergency. They should not be left alone for more than a very short time. Many young children play outdoors with other children without supervision; most people would agree that this is an important part of growing up. To leave children outdoors for a considerable length of time though or to allow them to wander off without knowing where they are going would be unacceptable.

If your child is under 16, they shouldn’t be left alone overnight.

When leaving older children, make sure that they are happy about the arrangements and that they know how to contact the emergency services. Most parents would think it's OK to leave a 16-year-old alone overnight. But to leave them for a week would be unacceptable. Your child might be mature enough to be left alone, but consider; are the friends that they are bringing into your home when you are not there, mature enough?

Did you know?

There’s no legal age limit for leaving a child on their own, but it’s an offence to do so if it places them at risk.

Parents can be prosecuted for neglect if they leave a child unsupervised “in a manner likely to cause unnecessary

suffering or injury to health”.

What is neglect?

If you fail to meet your child’s basic needs, such as food and warm clothing, or constantly leave your child alone,

this is known as neglect. Neglect is as serious as other forms of child abuse because the effects can be just as damaging and long-lasting.

For further information Download the NSPCC “Home Alone" information leaflet at: http://www.nspcc.org.uk/ Or for advice on leaving your child home alone or what to do if you are worried about a child being left home alone, contact:

British Forces Social Work Service, Central Referrals on: +49 (0) 800 724 3176

Coping with Christmas It may be the Season of Goodwill, but for some people, the bright lights of Christmas can highlight any relationship problems they may have. The holidays mean extra time off and if your relationship is already under pressure, having to spend more time together could widen the cracks.

Holidays are about family, food and fun, especially enjoying the season with that special someone.

But what do you do when the one you love has returned from deployment and you are finding it hard adjusting to life together again? Try to remember that just as it took several weeks to settle into the deployment routine it can also take time to get back to normal and the key here is communication. However if there were unresolved marital or family issues before deployment, or that arose during R&R, they are likely to still be there at the end. The Christmas break may give you the opportunity to talk things through, but if you have a houseful of visitors this might not be possible. If you spend most of the holiday bickering and can’t resolve matters alone, you might want to consider relationship counselling.

Money is one of the main causes of arguments in relationships and the temptation to overspend on food, drink and presents is great at this time of year. Try to agree a budget and stick to it, however tempted you are.

By the time the holiday arrives, you may feel exhausted and the combination of rich food, alcohol and lazy days can kill the mood for sex. If your relationship is fine, then don’t give each other a hard time for a lack of intimacy over the holiday. Instead, support each other so that when you feel less exhausted, the passion will return. If your relationship is rocky, your lack of sex may be a major wake up call - a session with a Relate therapist could help sort things out.

A holiday can be the perfect time to discuss problems, but if you feel you need some professional help and want to speak with someone in complete confidence, call or email Relate to make an appointment.

We can offer face to face counselling or, if you prefer, counselling by phone, Skype or email. To arrange a free, confidential appointment or for further information, email us at office.relatebfg@gmail.com or call (Civ) 05219 254 2709 (Mil) 81 2709

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Ex HECTORS ANGEL by Serina Donkin “We’ve all got one of those friends’ who manages to talk us into doing something that our heads are simply screaming “NO” at. “Go on,” they say, “It’ll be fun.” Somehow convincing you that it is a good idea; well, that’s what happened to me.

I agreed to take part in Ex HECTORS ANGEL, a wives exercise organised by 35 Engineer Regiment LAD. I don’t do camping; in fact have spent the last 19 years of being a parent trying to avoid camping and the nearest I have even got to it is when we hired a 5* motorhome, that was traumatic enough for me.

The first hurdle to get past was the kit list, as I am a novice with some of the terminology. Why would I know what a KFS is? Well it turns out that it is merely Knife, Fork and Spoon, but it highlights the fact that I don’t know what I am doing. At this point my husband steps in and before I know it I am fully kitted out and my bags are packed (as well as a reminder that I am not going into SAS training). In the short car journey to Barker Barracks nerves (and some excitement) set in, as I am about to become Recruit Donkin for the weekend. I’m committed, there’s no getting out of this now.

On the Parade Square the other ladies are excitedly chatting and taking the all-important selfies, however I’m off for a last minute nervous dash to the toilet, perhaps a little too casually as on my way back I hear the roar of the AQMS, WO2 Dan Rowe getting the ladies lined up. Now I suddenly find myself racing across the Parade Square, not a great start. We are introduced to Capt Colin Lees, the ASM, WO1 Steve Curry and the shouter, Dan Rowe.

We are informed that from this moment on we are all now Recruits, there will be no longhaired Generals for the rest of the weekend and that everything we do is now being scored. After all, it was a competition, and to emphasise this we are split into Sections, run by Cpl Louw (1 Section), Cpl Kyle Gowen (2 Section) and Sgt (Percy) Percival (3 Section).

I am placed in 2 Section and our first task is Drill. Cpl Gowen takes us through our paces, which I think is going well (despite being laughed at for tick-tocking), however before long the shouter is back and shifts the tempo up a gear, our comfort zone is gone again. Soon enough, it is time for parade and we form up in front of WO1 RSM Ben McGauley who is judging our every move, goodness knows what we must look like.

We patrol our way through Barker Barracks to our camp, which to our delight features a toilet block and tents (sleeping on the floor is much easier to bear knowing we had protection from all the monsters that could potentially get in our hair). Grabbing a Ration Pack each, we head to a small wooded area, where the AQMS attempts to talk us through the art of applying Cam Cream; however when let loose we seem to go mad with it, whilst insisting on mirror checks and more selfies. Time for lunch! Lunch is a gourmet delight of Ration Pack food, after being expertly shown how to use Hexy Blocks to cook with. Now I am not saying the food was delicious, however the variety was a pleasant surprise and we even had cake!

With lunchtime over, and our tracks covered (well sort of) it is time for the tractor task (Light Wheeled Tractor to be precise). Spr McIntyre talks us through the challenge and how to operate the machinery. Now it doesn’t sound too difficult, until we realise that if you aren’t gentle then that tractor will shake like it is at a party. That poor Sapper is now about to spend the whole day being shook within an inch of his life. The same could be said for the Bulldog, which also has the potential to cause damage to its Commander, LCpl Hillier, who at one point looks as though he is going to be thrown from the hatch during a particularly heavy braking moment.

16

Next up: shooting. I am slightly concerned at how many of my Section’s eyes light up as we step into the indoor shooting range. All briefed up by the training team, we are now laying in position and it is at that point that I learn something new about myself; I can’t actually close my left eye. This is not very helpful as the weapons are operated from the right-hand side. The solution? To wear an eye patch, which is not a particularly good look. I also learn that some of my Section has issues - they couldn’t wait for the automatic! This is when I notice the first glimpse of our competitive spirit show; we are going to win this!

Between tasks, 2 Section manage to fit in a chocolate break despite our busy schedule, which is lucky seeing as though we are about to have our energy drained by Sgt ‘Bruce’ Forsyth, Cpl Peck & Spr Humphry during Bayonet training.

First is a calm talk through the safety brief (little do we know this is leading us into a false sense of security), and after a demonstration the Instructors suddenly become possessed. Without time to think we are being beasted in ‘Hell’ and screaming hatred at dummies, as we quite literally stick the knife in. By the time we conduct our last advance, there is no need to be reminded to shout, “KILL KILL KILL,” as we throw ourselves at the dummies, letting them know just how much we hate them, talk about bayonet rage!

After all that excitement, we head back to our little camp for the night. Much to our surprise, cot beds have been erected in our tents whilst we have been out; it is safe to say we are very happy bunnies. This doesn’t last long though; we are on the go again, this time with a timed orienteering challenge. Working as a team, we follow clues and drag items (including another poor dummy) back to our camp. At this point, we are more than ready for some wining and dining. Once our kit and bed space are sorted, we toast a “Happy Birthday” to Anja Reynolds (who weirdly chooses to spend her birthday this way). The rest of the evening is spent filled with laughter, singing, wine, a BBQ, cake and Pub games. If this is what our soldiers do on exercise, then I don’t see what the fuss is all about.

The following morning we head down to the Gym, where very quickly we come to realise that the ninja assault course set up outside is for us. The QMSI, WO2 Dean Moss takes us through a warm up (which actually feels like a full aerobics session). Without thought on our part, we throw ourselves completely into the assault course, as we know it is timed and we want to give it our all. What a mistake, if we had listened properly (probably taking selfies during this important piece of information) we would have known that after a quick water break we would be doing our timed session, oh dear!

So twice around the assault course and having completed two Command Tasks, our time with the PTIs is over. Wrong! Now they want two members from each section to go again, and as I am confused as to which we are being timed on, I have to give it 100% again. The last bit of life is sucked out of me and I’m ready to go home, but not before a well earned Sunday Roast in the 35 Engineer Regiment WOs’ & Sgts’ Mess.

The whole experience was amazing and was made so enjoyable by the organisers and helpers who went out of their way to ensure we had fun. Despite my abs being on fire, my voice failing and the aches that have set in, I would thoroughly recommend giving this type of opportunity a go.”

“Many thanks to everyone involved in Ex HECTORS ANGEL, see you next year.”

WRVS NORMANDY BARRACKS WRVS NORMANDY BARRACKS PRESENTS PRESENTS

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AROUND100 100DVDS DVDSTOTO AROUND GO!!!!!!

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All we ask for is a All we ask for is a small donation small donation

Normandy Barracks CENTRE OPENING WRVS Centre CENTRE OPENING

HOURS HOURS Opening hours are Are advertisedon on the Aredisplayed advertised on the the entrance to WRVS Centre entrance to to WRVS entrance theCentre Centre SUBTITLE. SUBTITLE.

Did you know LSU Paderborn are moving?

————— To —————

Normandy Barracks Building 139

FURTHER INFORMATION TO FOLLOW! 18

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Puzzle Page November 2015 Band Aid

Sudoku

What bands are represented by these pictures? To help you out the number of letters is indicated underneath each picture. So for example if the answer were to be New Order then you will see (3,5).

(5)

(3,9)

5 8 6 9 2

CAT COT COG DOG

Tosohatchee

Three Lakes

Lake Jessup

Green Swamp

Cassia

Yvette

Wesley

Start with one word, change one letter at a time forming a new word each time you do until finally you reach the target word eg CAT to DOG can be done like this:

Jan

Word Warp

Heather

(3,7)

Danielle

(3,7,6)

3 4 2 4 8 2 6 9 9 5 8 1 4 7 6 3 8 9 3 6 5 5 9 4

8 miles 9 miles 10 miles 11 miles 12 miles Cassia

Here are some more for you to try: BOOT

PALE

SHOE

DARK

LIVE

SLOW

Green Swamp

Lake Jessup Three Lakes Tosohatchee

BAND FAST

Notes:

Scrabble Dabble

E 1 A 1 C4 H 3 L 2 C 4 I 1

How many words of 3 letters or more can you make using the Scrabble letters above. There is at least one seven letter word. Target: Fair 5, Good 10, Excellent 15 words.

Several members of the Florida Trail Association have decided to each hike a different trail segment today to check for storm damage. Using only the clues that follow, match each hiker to their start and end points and determine the total distance hiked by each.

Clues 1. The person who started at Green Swamp walked 2 more miles than Danielle.

2. The hiker who trekked for 9 miles started at Tosohatchee.

3. Of the person who started at Cassia and the hiker who started at Three Lakes, one is Jan and the other walked 12 miles.

4. The hiker who trekked for 10 miles is either the person who started at Green Swamp or the person who started at Cassia.

5. Yvette didn’t go exactly 11 miles.

6. Danielle walked somewhat more than Heather.

Answers available via email: punchlines.magazine@gmail.com

Army Library and Information Service Sennelager Library: 05254 982 2481 British Army ‘Military Book of the Year’ The results of this year’s British Army Military Book of the Year Award were very tight.A panel of fourteen Army judges read all six books and independently ranked them by merit; merging their results produced the winner. The results were:

1. Ring of Steel by Alexander Watson (64 votes) 2. Good War by Jack Fairweather (62 votes) 3. Waterloo by Tim Clayton (58 votes) 4. National Express by Richard Vinen (39.5 votes) 5. The Reckoning by Patrick Bishop (36 votes) 6. Stout Hearts by Ben Kite (34.5 votes)

October Half-Term @ the Library ‘Thank You’ to everyone who took part in our Spooky Halloween activities this year. Lots of fun was had with children making monster tea light lanterns, horrific hand paintings and decorating bloodcurdling biscuits. ‘Thank You’ to Capt Marion Kingston 2iC 41 AEC for her scary storytelling! The winner of the ‘Guess the Weight’ of the pumpkin competition will be announced in the next edition.

What was your favourite read of 2015?

As the year draws to a close, it is now time to reflect on the best books published over the last 12 months. What have you read this year that you would recommend to other readers?

Tell us what you have enjoyed, and which titles didn’t live up to your expectations. Hand your mini reviews in to Sennelager or Barker Library before Fri 13 Nov to be in with a chance of having your review published in the Christmas edition of Punchlines.

We look forward to reading your reviews!

Celebration of Peace Local British and German communities united on Sat 26 Sep to celebrate 70 years of peace since the end of the second World War. Around 200 people gathered and the sun made a welcome appearance for the celebrations in Marienfeld.

Bürgermeisterin Sabine Amsbeck-Dopheide, who opened the event, explained that the Allied troops laid the ground for this festival 70 years ago, “for this freedom, a lot of people have died.” Referring to the current refugee situation, one of two causes that were supported by the event through donations, she explained, “It’s understandable that the refugees would seek out countries, like Germany, where there have been several generations of peace, confirming: ‘they have come to stay’.”

Austin Boothroyd, musical director at the Gütersloh Music Centre and one of the founders of the event, said, “70 years of peace was the title right from the beginning and it was Andreas Müller that suggested we had a combined British and German celebration. It has been a joint effort and from our point of view has been a community thing, the British who live here and the Germans, coming together and doing a joint project.”

An outdoor church service then took place at the War Memorial by the Klosterpforte Hotel. Afterwards, as the crowds relaxed with their picnics, an open-air concert was held. Various schools from the surrounding area entertained the audience; Gütersloh Music School played Sweet Georgia Brown, the Anglo-German brass band played John Lennon’s Imagine and Blankenhagen School Choir sang ‘I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing’.

In the early evening, the community was then treated to a performance of The Peace Makers, written by Karl Jenkins. Karl Jenkins used quotes from inspirational figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Teresa and Nelson Mandela for his compositions. Austin expressed, “We have a great piece of music to finish the evening, it fits in perfectly with our theme.”

Inside Marienfeld Abbey, the German and British choirs combined for the performance and were joined by orchestra soloists Rhiannon Llewellyn and Claudia Lawong; Andreas Müller conducted.

During the interval two school children, one British and one German, lit candles, which in turn were used to light the tealights that had been placed in jam jars and used to create the image of a dove of peace, on the courtyard floor, as part of the event’s finale. Austin explained, “It was Rev Richard Downe’s idea: we see images of bridges covered in padlocks, a symbol of love. There is a togetherness about that idea which we love, so just as night falls we will be lighting the image of a dove in flames to symbolise the unity of Germany and Britain since 1945.”As the community left the performance, the dove could be seen from the doors of the abbey, a highlight of the evening.

The Big Brew Up 2015 - “Thank You Paderborn Station” The Big Brew Up takes place every year; it has become SSAFA’s biggest fundraising event to raise money for Armed Forces personnel and their families, from which all proceeds go back into benefitting our local communities. This year the official dates were 22nd to 28th June, however due to various commitments during the Summer months, Paderborn Station made the decision to hold their Big Brew Up events in October - ensuring that the entire community could get involved.

The Big Brew Up kicked-off on Sat 03 Oct with the Big Tombola, which was held within the Paderborn Community Hub. Volunteers spent the day selling Raffle tickets for the chance to win one of the many prizes. In order to encourage our community to take part and donate, the SSAFA volunteers also assisted in packing the shopping bags of those who visited the NAAFI Max. To jump start the coffee mornings for the week, Barker Barracks held a combined Big Brew Up, which was organised by the wives of 35 Engr Regt, 3 CS Bn REME and 1PWRR. This joint venture was held in Monty’s on Barker Barracks – the home of 3 CS Bn REME’s Wives Committee.

Rachel Boxall, whose husband serves with 35 Engr Regt, explained, “Each of the Unit’s have Soldiers away, so it was decided that a combined event was would be a great way to bring everyone together, and for Soldiers and families from different Units to mix.”

QRH added a twist to their Big Brew Up event, as the Regiment took part in a ‘Fun Run’ to build up their appetites. Competing against one another, two teams ran circuits, which had been mapped out around Athlone Barracks, whilst they carried heavy equipment. Chefs served up a delicious choice of bacon or sausage baps, as well as the usual tea and coffee to the famished soldiers. The Commanding Officer, Lt Col A Porter, said, “The work of SSAFA in Germany is vital, especially with the reduced number of Units based here. QRH have two squadrons currently in Canada so SSAFA is supporting many of our families during this time of separation.”

5 RIFLES donned their fancy dress costumes to start their morning with an aerobics session. With costumes ranging from 1980’s Gym Queens to the Ninja Turtles, the Regiment (attempted) to follow a high intensity aerobic workout, which was a rather ‘interesting’ sight.

Much to everyone’s relief, the routine was shortened slightly due to technical issues. Everyone was then able to relax with a hot drink and a cake, kindly made and donated by the Regimental family.

On Dempsey Barracks, 1AMR not only held the usual coffee morning with an amazing array of cakes, they also held a charity auction in order to raise as much money as possible. There was plenty for the Regiment to bid on, with donations ranging from a Tandem Skydive to a 2-hour house cleaning service. All items were sold with many having received very generous bids, culminating a total of €1249 being raised for SSAFA. An additional €687 was raised by donations for the cakes.

Fun and disorder was the day for the Paderborn Station Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, which took place in the Normandy Welfare Room. The usual disarray of Alice in Wonderland decorations filled the room, with WO2 Mark Heap once again excelling himself in decorating this highly themed Big Brew event; it featured a wide selection of sweet treats.

Finishing off the Big Brew Up events for 2015 was HQ 20th Armd Inf Bde, where there was the usual array of homemade goodies on offer.

To add a little more excitement, a Custard Pie Challenge was organised, some unlucky volunteer had the pleasure of being ‘pied’ with a custard pie. This proved rather popular amongst those in attendance.

Not surprisingly, our community came together to support these events and raise awareness of SSAFA, but more importantly to raise funds that will go into benefitting our community; a total of €6066.60 was raised.

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Digging Deep for Dominica On Thu 27 Aug, Dominica succumbed to the devastating effect of Tropical Storm Erika. Hurricane season causes tropical storms annually, but Erika caused more wide spread devastation than could have ever been anticipated: 300mm of overnight rain resulted in mass floods, paralysing numerous villages and interrupting a vast majority of roads, telecommunications and electrical infrastructure.

Consequently, villages have been relocated to towns where locals are offering their support and help, but the number of people who have been affected is extremely overwhelming.

Dominica belongs to the Caribbean chain of islands, with a population of approximately 72000. It is just 754km2, with mountainous terrain and has multiple water features, which in many ways contribute to the vulnerability of the island during natural disasters, such as tropical storms and hurricanes.

So far, it is known that two families have died as a result of landslides and floods. The Government and people are of the Commonwealth of Dominica are working feverishly to conduct search and rescue operations, and to restore utilities, however progress is slow and resources are awfully limited.

Pte Patti-Mene Edwards from 3 CS Bn REME, a Dominican National, was in the UK at the time of the storm and upon her return to Germany she was determined to help raise money to support the communities in need. Pte Edwards explained, “As far I am aware my family is safe and well, but in one way or another we will have all been affected by the tropical storm, as we live within a close-knit community. It is extremely difficult not being there with them. My commitment to the British Forces means I am in Germany, however that doesn’t mean I can’t do my bit in supporting them.”

With this in mind, Pte Edwards contacted three other personnel, whom are also Dominican Nationals and are currently serving in BFG: Pte Marie from 3 CS Bn REME, Cpl Charles from 2 CS Coy REME and Cpl John from 6 Regiment RLC to brainstorm and come up with a fundraising idea. With the help of SSgt Yates, 3 CS Bn REME QMSI, they organised a run/cycle /row event, which was to cover the distance from Paderborn to Dominica.

The event kicked off in the Barker Barracks Gymnasium on Mon 21 Sep, which was a 2-day stage of the fundraiser. Whilst the team made every effort to dig deep and cover as much distance as possible, it was proving a little harder than they initially thought, due to work commitments; the target distance was altered to, a still challenging, 4000km. Stage two was held in the Paderborn Community Hub, Sennelager, on Fri 25 and Sat 26 Sep. Sgt James, 3 CS Bn REME, took part in the challenge to show his support, he said, “I am from the Caribbean, so although the storm has not directly impacted me, it is very close to home and I want to do my part for charity. You would not typically find me in the gym, but it has been rather refreshing to get on a bike after a busy day at work.”

The static bikes proved to be the most popular choice of equipment, as it was the most effective at covering distance; it was also the most tiring. This did not discourage some light-hearted competitiveness between the cyclists, in order to break each other’s records. The competition heated up when a female Dependant made it onto the leaderboard, giving the male Soldiers a good run for their money. Now this was a challenge that had to be beat, as a girl couldn’t possibly beat them. In the end, Pte Pun from 3 CS Bn REME rode victorious, reaching a distance of 43.8km in an hour.

Once again, our community pulled together to show support to the people of Dominica, with many Units, agencies and individuals offering their time and services. Barker Barracks Gymnasium supplied static bikes, rowing machines and treadmills, NAAFI donated refreshments and JB’s located on Barker Barracks supplied packed lunches. In addition to this, Soldiers and families went along to join in and/or show their support, but more importantly to raise much-needed funds to help the people of Dominica in their time of need.

BFBS also showed amazing support prior to and throughout the event. Pte Edwards said, “I cannot thank BFBS enough for their support, especially Mike Howarth and Misty McCready.” BFBS generated media coverage before the start of the event, and called daily for an update on how it was all going. Pte Edwards extended her thanks to Aimee at BFBS for her impromptu TV interview.

On Sat 25 Sep, Shantel John-Richardson saw a BBQ organised by the Caribbean Linkup committee as the perfect opportunity to kindly ask for bucket donations, in order to raise additional funds for the cause. Shantel explained, “I am from Saint Vincent, which is an island situated in the Caribbean so the devastation that Dominica has experienced is very close to home for me.” Members of the Royal British Legion Paderborn Branch dug deep in their pockets to also donate, helping Shantel to raise a total of €127.70.

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To date, due to generous support of the Paderborn Station community over €2100 has been raised but support does not end there. Many have been directly affected by the impact of Tropical Storm Erika, but many have also been affected indirectly. Support to this worthwhile cause can be continued, by contacting SSgt Yates, 3 CS Bn REME, at Barker Barkers Gymnasium to donate.

25 Years of Volunteering Recognised On Thu 17 Jul, Mr Jake Porter MBE was awarded a St. John Ambulance ‘25 Years of Volunteering Certificate’

by Major General Stanford, GOC Regional Command, for his voluntary services to the community.

The certificate was awarded to Jake in the presence of colleagues, friends and member of the community in the Arndt Strasse Community Centre, whilst the GOC was visiting Paderborn Station to see first hand the amenities available.

Senior Chaplain 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade, Reverend Mike Thomason proudly read Jake’s citation as the Area Manager of St. John Ambulance, which highlighted the tremendous amount of time Jake has dedicated St. John Ambulance and more.

Jake began volunteering with St. John Ambulance in 1988, and for the last five years has taken lead of the Volunteer Unit and been the Lead Trainer with St. John Ambulance in Germany.

Much of Jake’s free time has been given to provide first aid cover at community events across BFG, and for many years coordinated the medical provision for the Rhine Army Summer Show. In more recent years, Jake has offered Essential First Aid courses to our community, with over 200 people having been trained this year.

Also, as part of his volunteering with St. John Ambulance, Jake acts as a liaison officer with Malteser Hilfdiest and Johanniter Hilfdiest (sister organisations of St. John Ambulance). Through Malteser Hilfdiest, Jake has been involved in Humanitarian work within Eastern Europe, from which these close ties were recently recognised with the awarding of a Knighthood from the Hungarian Order. Jake has been the lynchpin of the organisation in Paderborn for a considerable time.

Over the years, Jake has supported many community activities from lead work with the Badgers, the Cadets and adult Units to umpiring in Army Hockey. Jake is actually very well-known within Army Hockey with being involved since in 1971, first as a player and for the last twenty-nine years as an umpire. He continues to mentor and teach new umpires for the sport. In addition to all this, he is the Chairman, Standard Bearer and Case Work for the Lippe Branch of the Royal British Legion.

In 1995, the commitment provided by Jake was recognised by the Queen when he was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his voluntary services to the Military community, Army sport, and St. John Ambulance. In 2003 the Queen gave his work with St. John Ambulance further recognition, and he was admitted to the Order of St. John, in the grade of Officer.

Liaison Officers Honoured Two members of British Forces Germany have been awarded the distinguished Verdienstkreuz - one of the highest decorations for services to the state of Lower Saxony at a ceremony in Hannover.

Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) (Retd) Tony Domeisen and Major (Maj) (Retd) Hugh Pierson received the award from Ministerpräsident (Prime Minister of Lower Saxony) Stefan Weil in recognition of many years service in promoting British-German relationship.

“Liaison Officers are the catalysts between the British Forces and the various civilian German authorities, institutions and organisations,” said Prime Minister Weil during the ceremony. “Both of them have excelled in establishing a scenario of trust coupled with mutual respect and understanding, particularly evident when British soldiers were deployed on operations leaving their families behind as part of the local community.”

Tony Domeisen has spent much of his career promoting British-German understanding ands friendship. Following a 30 year service with the Royal Anglian Regiment, concluding as a Lt Col, with postings among others to Celle, Mönchengladbach, Paderborn, Mühlheim and Hannover.

He was awarded an MBE in 1998 for services to a NATO-led exercise Certain Strike. Tony joined the then Joint Services Liaison Organisation in 1998 as a Services Liaison Officer (SLO), the intermediary between the British Forces and the German authorities, the armed forces and communities. In 2009 he was awarded the Bundeswehr’s Ehrenkreuz in Silber in recognition of promoting the military link with the British Forces. Tony currently works as the SO1 Liaison at HQ BFG responsible for relationships with state ministries.

“This award is quite humbling and of course naturally proud to have receive such an honour,” said Tony. “Part of me would like to think that this award recognises the part my father played in Hannover and across Lower Saxony from 1945 to 1962. There is no doubt that he as Intelligence and Liaison Officer was recognised by Lower Saxony and its communities for when I arrived in post as the Land Liaison Officer in 1999 I had people ringing me up welcoming me back!”

Hugh Pierson had a 22 military career serving with the Queen’s Royal Irish Hussars, finishing as a Maj before joining the Joint Services Liaison Officer as SLO Bergen-Hohne where he has remained ever since. A well known and respected figure in the wider Hanover area, Hugh spends much of his time in extramural activities in the interests of British-German relations. As Deputy Chairman of the Hanover-British Association, he was actively involved in the celebrations of the tri-centenary of the Personal Union, which saw the first of the Hanoverians Kings on the British throne.

“These Liaison Officers excel not just through diplomatic finesse, humour and the world-famous British understatement,” said the Prime Minister, “but also through a very personal interest in Germany and its people. They are the face of the United Kingdom in their respective areas of responsibility, perhaps more so than Ambassadors or Generals who often exchange their appointments. It gives me enormous pleasure to award them the Lower Saxony Cross of Merit.”

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Long Service Certificate Presentations Congratulations and celebrations were the order of the day on Wednesday 5th October when Westfalen Garrison Commander, Colonel John Connelly, presented civilian personnel from across Paderborn Station with Long Service Certificates, in recognition of their years of service to Her Britannic Majesty’s Forces.

Klaus Ebbes (12 Years Service) - Herr Ebbes has been employed as a general labourer maintaining the house and grounds of both Epsom and Newmarket houses, where he is still employed. He has seen seven 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade Commanders, and four, now, Garrison Commanders pass.

Steven Lendor (12 Years Service) - Mr Lendor joined the GGS in June 2003, and was located at Dempsey Barracks for six years before transferring to Athlone Barracks. Four short years later, he relocated Normandy Barracks where he remains today.

Jörg Kass (12 Years Service) - Herr Kass began work at Barker Barracks, with

the GGS in June 2003, where he spent a total of nine years before being transferred. Over the last three years, he has divided his time between Normandy and Alanbrooke Barracks.

Ian Hamill (25 Years Service) - Upon leaving the Army in May 1989, Mr Hamill

Arap Helcin (12 Years Service) Herr Yalcin joined the GGS back in June 2003, working as an Armed Guard in Athlone Barracks. He has since been promoted to the role of Senior Watchman.

joined GLSU Bielefeld working at the 1st Corps Trps WKSP REME. About six months later, he transferred to 62 Ord Coy when an armours post became available. Since 1992/1993, when the Unit moved to Gütersloh, Mr Hamill has been an armourer with TAG (G) in Sennelager.

Nigel Murray (25 Years Service) - Mr Murray was originally working as part of

the MSO Dog Section based in Hameln. As the MSO drew down, he transferred to the GGS to become an Armed Guard and Senior Watchman but remained in Hameln. Mr Murray aided with the closure of Hameln, and in 2014 took up post in Paderborn Station.

Steven Scholes (35 Years Service)

Leslie Williams (25 Years Service) Mr Williams began serving with the GGS in Lübbecker, back in 1990. He also served in Minden, Rinteln and Hameln before each of their closures, which he assisted in, before relocating to Paderborn. During his time, Mr Williams has taken up roles including an Armed Guard, and later as a Shift Supervisor.

Alan Wallace (12 Years Service) Mr Wallace started working with the GGS back in March 2003. During his time of service, he has served at all locations within Paderborn Station, and assisted with duties in HQ Westfalen Garrison and HQ 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade.

Andrew Miller (25 Years Service) Mr Miller served in the Army for fourteen years as a Supply Specialist. Upon leaving in 1988, he took up the role as a clerk in the Workshops of 636 Mobile Civilian Transport Group based in Werl, before moving into their Workshop stores when a position became vacant.

When the Unit disbanded in 1993, Mr Miller moved to Normandy Barracks to take up the as the Equipment Manager in the Officers’ Mess, and remained here until 1999. Since then, he has worked within the QM’s department; working closely with Accommodation Supervisor and helping run the DAS account.

He was promoted to Supervisor in 2014, upon the retirement of the former Supervisor.

Mr Scholes joined 65 Engineer Park, Crocker Barracks, in August 1980 and held various storekeeping roles within the Park. When the Engineer Park closed in 2000, he took up the role as Senioe Storekeeper at the Distribution Outlet on Athlone Barracks. Six years later, he moved to his current position as the Paderborn Garrison, now Station, Cleaning Manager.

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, two Civilians were unable to attend the presentation so will be presented with their certificates at a later date.

Bernhard Düsterhus (25 Years Service) - Herr

Düsterhus joined the SWS Troop Paderborn Alanbrooke in March 1990. As part of his role, he was responsible for the installation and repair of telephone and network cables, inside and outside of buildings. In March 2000, he transferred to the QM’s Department Paderborn Station after the disbandment of SWS that took place in 2009.

Mark Banks (25 Years Service) - Between 1990 and

1995, Mr Banks was employed as a Dog Handler in Herford before transferring to Paderborn. After eighteen years working with dogs, he changed to become an Armed Guard in Normandy Barracks.

GOC Regional Command visits BFG The GOC Regional Command, Major General R J Æ Stanford MBE, visited BFG 15-17 September 2015. This was his first to British Forces Germany since assuming his current appointment.

The GOC spent his first day being briefed by Commander British Forces Germany (BFG), Brigadier Ian Bell, and his principal staff in Bielefeld on the broad range of issues that HQ BFG is required to address and some of the key challenges with which it is currently dealing. He also visited some HQ BFG branches and was briefed by a team from Hohne Garrison on their observations following the successful Garrison closure. This phase of the visit included a working lunch in the Catterick Barracks Officers’ Mess and a visit to the Contract Repair Branch in Rochdale Barracks.

The following day, the GOC visited Paderborn Station, Westfalen Garrison, to gain an understanding of the Firm Base Support provided and learn from members of the community how this impacts positively on them.

The Commander Westfalen Garrison, Colonel John Connelly, emphasised the wide and varied role the Headquarters plays in providing all manner of Firm Base Support to our soldiers, which the General then had an opportunity to see at first hand by visiting amenities in Paderborn Station.

The first stop for the General was the Vehicle Licensing Office (VLO) where he was introduced to staff and customers by Mr Mark Amabile and Frau Carola Stallmeier. He was briefed about the benefits to the community of having a one-stop facility for vehicle registration and how the system has been vastly improved over the last 18 months.

Next it was onto the Paderborn Community Hub. Paderborn Station Staff Officer, Mr Tim Hopkins, talked the General through the changes that had been made within the building that have resulted in a centralised hub for key community services, such as the HIVE, Library, Post Office, AFF, LSU, SSVC. General Stanford received a detailed brief about the work of the HIVE from Mrs Anita Pluckwell and Mrs Stefanie Potter before meeting the staff who run the Sennelager Library. The General took a particular interest in personal experiences of moving to Germany.

The General then took time to view the newest addition to the Paderborn Community Hub, the PRI shop, where he spoke with Mrs Kelly Tucker and Mr John Pluckwell, who were instrumental in setting up this excellent facility and heard how the aim of the shop was to provide the community with items that are not available from the NAAFI. The PRI Shop staff highlighted the significant savings our community can make on purchases of top branded items such as Pandora and Northface. Finally the General moved onto the NAAFI where the Operations Director for Germany, Mr John Goddard, explained how the NAAFI is able to provide a ‘taste of the UK’ and offers access to Duty Free goods.

After a quick trip across town, the General visited the Arndt Strasse Community Centre. Mr Peter May briefed about the role and fantastic services provided by the Army Welfare Service (AWS) and WO2 Pete Wyatt explained the use of the Community Centre by a variety of groups such as Home-Start and how important the centre is. With its close proximity to Bishopspark School, Service Families Accommodation and the NAAFI Local on Uhland Strasse, it provides a real focus for the local community.

Finally to round the busy morning off, and with a well-deserved brew in hand, the General spent a good half an hour chatting to the community, in the Bluebell’s Café, listening intently about their personal thoughts of living and working within Paderborn Station. This was also the perfect opportunity to award Mr Jake Porter MBE a certificate, on behalf of St. John Ambulance, for his 25 years of volunteering and services to the community. Awards like these further highlight the vital role that dependants and volunteers play in supporting BFG. The General understood the importance of such a good support network and applauded the work done by agencies such as HIVE, Home-Start and Community Link Officer.

The GOC then drove to the Theatre Fleet Support Unit (Germany), where he was briefed on the key issues faced by the staff of this important facility, before flying back to the UK. On the conclusion of this successful visit, Brigadier Bell stated that he had been delighted to welcome Major General Stanford to British Forces Germany. The GOC had left with a good understanding of the challenges faced by BFG in the delivery of firm base support, the regulation of drawdown and the requirement to engage closely with the Host Nation authorities.

Acreswood Macmillan Coffee Morning Every year, since 1990, Macmillan Cancer Support have asked people from across the UK to hold a coffee morning, which has become Macmillan’s biggest fundraising event. Last year Macmillan raised £25 million; this helped the charity to provide medical, emotional, practical and financial support for the 2.5 million people in the UK who are facing cancer, whilst also campaigning for better cancer care. This year, the official date for the Macmillan Coffee Morning was Friday 25th September; however commitments sometimes prevent events from being held on this exact date, Macmillan Cancer Support welcome events to take place at a time that is convenient for you.

This is exactly what Acreswood Nursery did on Thursday 24th September, when fun and cake were the order of the day for staff, children and parents. Mrs Claire Revell, Manager Acreswood Nursery said, “Macmillan Cancer Support is a charity which is very close to my heart. We all wanted to support this fundraiser, whilst also hosting a Stay and Play event at the Nursery”. Claire also explained, “The Stay and Play is an opportunity for parents to come along and see what fantastic facilities we have at Acreswood. It is also a chance to promote the Nursery to new families arriving in Paderborn Station as we are in a great location, right in the heart of our community.”

Deputy Manager, Mrs Zoe Williamson, and Claire Revell both have friends who are sadly currently battling breast cancer. Zoe said, “The reason the staff are so passionate about raising money for Macmillan is because of a 3 year old boy who once attended the nursery. He had Leukemia, which we thought was getting better, however he has since been diagnosed with a brain tumour and the staff who worked so closely with him found it really hard to deal with.”

With the majority of staff dressed in green to further highlight the charity and their fundraising event, the children had the opportunity to enjoy play time with their parents, painting their hands green and eating cake, which were kindly donated by staff, parents and the CESSAC Bluebell’s Café. All in all, the Coffee Morning raised a total of €205.37.

Karl Allen was enjoying some time with his son, Hudson. He said, “I attend all the children’s events at School, I would hate to think my child was the only one without a parent present. Not only that, this is a good opportunity to support such a worthwhile cause and eating cake is an added bonus.”

Acreswood Nursery is open from 0830 hrs to 1500 hrs, for children aged 3 months to 5 years, during term time. Being located on Arndt Strasse means that Acreswood is right in the heart of the Paderborn community, it is conveniently situated within close proximity to Bishopspark School, NAAFI Local and the Arndt Strasse Community Centre. The Nursery has made great use of all the space they have available to them, including a secure outside area, which can host a variety of outdoor fun and games.

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Bishopspark School Celebrate Fiji Day On Fri 09 Oct, Bishopspark School held an assembly to celebrate Fiji Day. The assembly was put together by mums and dads, who are part of the Fijian community here within Paderborn Station.

The children were taught about life in Fiji, the geography, climate and lifestyle, even the subject of rugby came up! The staff and children were then treated to a display of traditional singing and dancing, which involved many of Bishopspark’s very own pupils.

The head teacher, Mrs Brenda Titley, was closely guarded by two warriors throughout the whole event, which was a source of great delight for the children. Once the assembly was over everyone was given the chance to sample some Fijian cuisine, which was a treat enjoyed by both pupils and staff alike. Bishopspark School would like to say a big ‘Thank You’ to all of those who gave their time to make this such a special occasion, and hope they all managed time to enjoy Fiji day themselves.

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William Wordsworth & Robert Browning Fiji Day Celebrations On Fri 09 Oct, members of William Wordsworth and Robert Browning Schools came together to celebration Fiji Day. Mrs. Leawere, who is a member of the Fijian community in Paderborn Station, came into the school to give a talk about Fijian culture to all of our children. The Fijian morning included traditional singing and dancing. The children even had the opportunity to sample some Fijian food, which received positive reviews. Robert Browning School would like to give thanks to everyone involved in helping make the morning such a success.

What A Lovely Surprise!

A pupil at John Buchan School, Ellen Rees, had a lovely surprise when she returned to school at the beginning of the Autumn Term.

In the summer, as part of a science lesson, Ellen wrote to David Attenborough; she told him how much she enjoyed his programmes and also asked him questions about how he first became interested in nature.

Much to Ellen’s surprise all of her questions were answered

by David, in person, in a hand written letter! He told her that he first became interested in science when finding fossils, as a child, near his home in Leicestershire. Hopefully this will inspire Ellen to follow in his illustrious footsteps.

AWSome Trick ‘or’ Treat

Halloween Crossword Across 2. To pull a... (5) 7. White and see-through (5) 8. Lives in hell (5) 10. Has white fangs (7) 12. Built with hay (8)

Down 1. Came to life by lightening (12) 2. Orange and round (7) 3. Black and starry (5) 4. Flying cave dwellers (3) 5. Come out of graves (7) 6. Made of bones (8) 9. Has a green face (5) 11. Also known as sweets (5)

Halloween Poem Pumpkins have faces Costumes are scary Trick or treat is a word for please Getting sweets as you go along Out in the pitch black knocking on doors A hundred treats to last you all year

Colour In Corner

Across 2. Prank 7. Ghost 8. Devil 10. Vampire 12. Scarcrow

Answers

Down 1. Frankenstein 2. Pumpkin 3. Night 4. Bat 5. Zombies 6. Skeleton 9. Witch 11. Candy

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35 Engr Regt Macmillan Coffee Morning Do you know that one in three of us will face cancer at some point? Whether that be yourself, a loved one or even a colleague. To ensure that no one will face it alone, Macmillan Cancer Support holds the World’s biggest coffee morning every year to help raise funds, and awareness to support those facing cancer.

On Wed 30 Sep, 35 Engineer Regiment Wives’ Committee did their part, by holding a Macmillan Coffee Morning in Bridges on Barker Barracks. The coffee morning was organised by Eloise Cheales, with members of the Wives Committee volunteering their time to help serve cake and make the all-important brews. Whilst the wives organised and ran the morning, the Regiment played their part in supporting them, by advertising the event across each of the Squadrons and encouraging the Soldiers to attend throughout. It was the perfect opportunity for Soldiers and their families to come together and have a catch up, whilst indulging in some homemade goodies, all whilst fundraising. All funds will go to supporting patients with cancer and their loved ones.

Cakes were generously donated from across the Regiment, with a homemade chocolate fudge cake and homemade carrot cake proving the most popular. Whilst everyone appreciated the large variety of options available, sadly the healthy plate of fresh fruit was overlooked, in favour of the indulgent selections. There was no set cost for a cuppa and cake, funds were all based on generous donations, which generated a whopping â‚Ź400. Events such as these would not be such a success without the continued support from our community.

Paderborn United FC Receive Commendation From FLVW Dignitaries from FLVW Kreis Paderborn recently presented a certificate, â‚Ź100 and some footballs to Paderborn United Football Club in recognition of their contribution to sport in Westfalen over the past 25 years.

Chairman of Fussball-und Leichtathletik-Verband Westfalen (FLVW) Kreis Paderborn, Herr Siegfried Hornig, who has held his position in the league for some 20 years, spoke with admiration to the Paderborn United senior team before their match on Sun 04 Oct. He said that it can be challenging to sustain a Football Club in normal circumstances, but for Paderborn United there are the additional challenges of being configured, in the main, from serving soldiers who have to deploy, sometimes for several months as well as the transient nature of the forces community. Herr Hornig stated that the friendship between Paderborn United and Kreis Paderborn has strengthened over the years and that it was a great honour to present the club with tokens to acknowledge the great achievement of the Club.

Indeed at this match the team was down to bare bones as seven players from 1 PWRR were away in the UK on exercise. The team had to start the match with only nine players and were 0-1 down at half time. However, reinforcements were called and by half team there was a full squad of eleven, and the team duly went on to win the match against FC Westerloh Lippling 4-1.

Paderborn United FC has teams playing in the German league for children aged 5-15 as well as the senior team.

If you are interested in ‘the beautiful game’ and would like to learn more about our club please contact us on

paderbornunited@ gmail.com or call the

Chairman of the Club on 05254 982 2338.

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2015 Golf Club Championships This year’s two-day Club Championship competition took place at the British Army Golf in Sennelager, it turned out to be rather challenging for most of the competitors, who began teeing off at 0830hrs on Sat 29 Aug. A total of 103 competitors took part in the championships.

The scores of Day 1 showed good variety, and demonstrated how hard the course was, as it had been set up with some very difficult but interesting pin positions. A notable score was from Maj Mick Burgess who scored a Gross 70, and LCpl Ben Dawson scoring Net 63.

The set up of Day 2 was as taxing as Day 1, but to add to it the weather decided to become extremely hot and humid.

Men’s Division Winners

Women’s Division Winners

Club Champion Gross 148 Mick Burgess Runner Up Best Gross Gross 156 Andreas Pietig Third Gross Gross 160 Bob Smith

Ladies Club Champion Gross 181 Jane Wills Ladies Net Club Champion On CB Net 162 Anne Gülle Ladies A Div Winner Net 162 Holly Thomson Ladies B Div Winner Net 162 Sabine McGregor Chairman’s Chipper On CB 56 Pts Ursula Decker-Lehman

President’s Putter President’s Putter Winner Net 132 Benjamin Dawson President’s Putter Runner Up On CB Net 150 Scott Creighton President’s Putter Third Net 150 Bas Rai

Johnnie Walker Johnnie Walker Winner Net 145 Chris Breedon Johnnie Walker Runner Up On Net 152 Limbu Yakchharaj Johnnie Walker Third Net 152 Steve Allan

Nolda Cup Nolda Cup Winner Net 140 Peter Green Nolda Cup Runner Up Net 142 Andrew Doidge Nolda Cup Third Net 148 Aidan Lennon

STC Cup STC Cup Winner Net 139 Christian Harvey STC Cup Runner Up Net 155 Lothar Wille STC Cup Third Net 156 Rory McGregor

Over 50s Over 50s Winner Net 152 Werner Brosda Over 50s Runner Up Net 153 Kenny McGeehan

The Chairman and Club Captain along with all members would like to make a special ‘Thank You’ to all the staff for their excellent hard work in preparing the competition and organising the event over the weekend. The course is currently in excellent condition and the investment in the greens and overall course maintenance is providing super playing conditions.

A special ‘Thank You’ must go to the sponsors Grant & Green Tax Free Car Sales for providing their support in order to hold this event and they have very kindly agreed to continue with the support for next year too.

Soldiers On The Slippery Slopes To Success Bispingen Alpine Centre in Germany was recently the venue for Exercise SNOW SUMMER the British Forces Germany’s indoor ski and snowboarding freestyle championships.

As Chief of Race, Colonel John Connelly, commented, “This is a fantastic location to start the season from and provides the riders with a chance to show their potential with a view to going forward to the UK championships and later on the Alpine championships.”

For the competitors the facilities at one of the best indoor centres in Europe provided them with many difficult features to challenge them as they progressed down the slopes with something for all the riders regardless of experience to tackle.

One of those riders was Corporal David Sullivan (31) from 1 Military Working Dogs (1 MWD) who has been snowboarding for 8 years, “Snowboarding is a real passion of mine and something I like doing to relax. I have not done much freestyle until this year but I like to push the boundaries of my ability however this indoor course is a lot bigger than I am used to and the kickers are proving very testing.”

Another competitor was Staff Sergeant Graeme McIlmurray (32) of 35 Engineer Regiment who said, “It’s good to get back on the board in a nice and relaxed atmosphere,” and when being asked what the biggest challenges of the course were, Graeme remarked, “Everyone will find different challenge, for some it will be the kickers because they are not used to flying through the air, but for me its the rails and getting your balance right.”

Explaining the scoring system Colonel Connelly said the contestants are given a chance to show the judges what they do and marked on the technical difficulty of the tricks, the speed and confidence at which they attack the course, flair and the amplitude they achieve on the jumps or kickers, sliding boxes and street rails.

So it was after a energetic afternoon of runs down the slopes that the marks were added up and the winners were announced as being Lance Corporal Sam Westlake (28) 6 Regiment RLC who won the snowboarding competition and Private Terrie Murphy (23) of 1 MWD who took the award for the skiing freestyle competition.

On her day Terrie commented, “Today has been a great introduction to Winter Sports and it’s been a very enjoyable experience, I have had a lot of fun skiing and meeting people with similar interests.”

Whereas Sam had previous competition experience, which definitely helped him on the day, “I represented my Corps earlier this year at the Army championships and did ok so I was quietly confident going into today’s competition. I am pleased to win today, it’s good to keep on improving and progressing. Snowboarding is a thrilling sport and you get a great adrenalin rush when you get in some serious air time over the kickers.”

To conclude, Colonel Connelly remarked, “It has been a great day of competition. You need plenty of moral courage and drive and determination to compete in this demanding vibrant sport and there have been plenty of thrills and spills today. But it has been really pleasing seeing the progression everyone has made through the day.”

Colonel Connelly and Lance Corporal Westlake

Colonel Connelly and Private Murphy

Testing Patrol For Brigade Soldiers Soldiers from across 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade have been testing themselves against the elements and the rigours of Sennelager Training Area on a patrol exercise as part of their preparations for the forthcoming arduous Exercise Cambrian Patrol.

For 48-hours the nine teams from The Royal Dragoon Guards, The Queen’s Royal Hussars, The Highlanders 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, 1st Battalion The Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment and 5th Battalion The Rifles were put through a number of physically and mentally demanding military challenges all designed with Exercise Cambrian Patrol in mind.

As Captain Lee Jenkins who organised the 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade patrol exercise explained, “We specifically designed the patrol around the tasks teams will encounter on the Cambrian Patrol, focusing particularly on areas that were identified as challenging last year. With this mind we hope the last two days have given them the opportunity to hone some of their basic infantry and low level skills as well as giving the patrol commanders a chance to see their teams perform under pressure in a similar scenario they can expect to experience on the Cambrian Patrol.”

Carrying all the personal kit and equipment needed for two days in the field the teams had to use their map reading skills to navigate around the training area completing various tasks as they progressed including a river crossing, chemical biological radiological and nuclear drills, reconnaissance techniques, medical evacuation drills and section attacks on enemy positions. All this against the clock and with little or no sleep.

Adding to the pressure the patrols soldiering skills, stamina and dedication were observed throughout with assessors awarding or deducting points depending on how the teams approached tasks and conducted themselves during the duration of the exercise.

Come the end, it was The Highlanders team 1 who emerged as the narrow victors with their patrol commander Colour Sergeant John Knox saying afterwards of the exercise, “Its a very proud moment for us to win it has been a good learning experience for the young soldiers to be pitted against other teams in the Brigade.

Although we have recently done a similar patrols competition back at Battalion, this has been good - testing. The river crossing was challenging and a difficult obstacle to overcome. We had not done it before so it was definitely something to test the young ‘jocks’ and because we crossed in the early evening we then had to go through the night with wet kit which made it just a little more uncomfortable!

You learn a lot about yourself when doing an exercise like this and we have learned a few new techniques on how to overcome and approach the tasks which we can take forward to the Cambrian patrol.”

Before presenting The Highlanders with their medals Commanding Officer QRH, Lt Col Alex Porter, congratulated everyone taking part in the patrol exercise for their fantastic endeavours over the two days.

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HRH On Track With The Reserves In his role as the Royal Honorary Colonel of The Royal Wessex Yeomanry (RWxY) HRH The Earl of Wessex recently visited the Regiment who were conducting their annual training in Sennelager. Germany.

During their time on the training area the 100 or so soldiers, from the only Army Armoured Reserve Regiment, worked closely with one of their paired regular regiments The Queen’s Royal Hussars (QRH).

Maximising their two weeks of training in Germany the RWxY carried out live firing on the ranges with the General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) and SA80, gunnery and driving courses under direction from QRH and probably more importantly provided the Challenger 2 Main Battle Tank (MBT) crews with an opportunity to train in an unfamiliar training environment.

It was amid one of the Challenger 2 MBT training serials that HRH visited and after spending time talking to the soldiers over their roles and how the exercise was progressing he joined a crew as they were put through their paces on a replenishment task; after this he moved to the nearby ranges where he fired several weapons including the GPMG. Among those he spoke to was Major Justin Crumb, who formerly served with the QRH, who said, “It is great to be back here training in Sennelager especially working with the QRH who have been fantastic in facilitating our training package.

The RWxY offers an unique soldiering experience being the only Armoured Reserve Regiment and we are an attractive proposition for ex-regulars as the valuable skills they have gained in the Army can be preserved where previously those skills and experience could have been lost. The Challenger 2 MBT is a great piece of kit and our role is really important working closely with three regular regiments.

It is fantastic to serve on tanks; many people pay a lot of money to have a tank driving experience but in the RWxY you get paid good money to drive a tank around!”

On the visit of the Earl of Wessex Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Godfrey Commanding Officer RWxY remarked, “It is absolutely fantastic that we are so well supported, today we have been able to show our capabilities, provide a little experience of what our reserve soldiers go through as well as demonstrate their enthusiasm and commitment to being in the Regiment.”

For Lt Col Alex Porter, Commanding Officer QRH the exercise had reenforced how well the pairing was working, ”It has been a pleasurable experience and we gain as much as working with the RWxY as they do from us due to the breadth of experience they bring from their civilian careers.

We have worked with them on recent Operations and looking to the future they will be supporting us in BATUS providing reservists in the tank crews.”

Corporal Elizabeth Diamond, a micro biologist in civilian life, saw joining the Reserves as a brilliant decision explained: “I joined 9 years ago after seeing the regiment carrying out recruitment in town. It seemed good they were promoting teamwork, the opportunities to learn new skills and describing the different adventurous training that could be tried. As they were my local regiment I thought I would try it out.

I have gained so much - it takes you out of your comfort zone, improved my confidence and I have learnt the importance of working together and developing skills needed to lead teams, skills I can easily apply back into my civilian role. It has been really beneficial.“ Speaking of the exercise and working with QRH, she added: “It has been brilliant working with the regulars, they have been fantastic sharing so much of their experience with us and we have learnt a lot in such a short period.”

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So the regiment had delivered against its recruitment promises, definitely said Elizabeth, “I have been fortunate to travel to Malta on adventurous training and I ski every year with the the regiment, there are so many things to do - essentially whatever your interest you can usually do it through the Army.”

20th ARMOURED INFANTRY BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS Office Opening Times Mon - Thu: 0830 - 1430hrs Fri: 0830 - 1230hrs

Welfare Team Welfare Officer: Capt Jason Styles Welfare Sgt: Sgt George Oppong Welfare Clerk: Becky Davey

“Bienvenue” from Capt Rick Newman If I may, I would like to take the opportunity to introduce myself as I have recently taken over the reins of 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade’s Media Officer and no doubt you will see me around the Bazaars.

I have spent the last twelve years living and working in Hohne with my wife and two children, so it is very exciting to move to a fresh location with new scenery and places to explore; it feels somewhat unusual to be able take a short bike to interesting places to see and in particular the abundance of local cafés and restaurants.

I am currently doing the rounds and meeting the Unit Press Officers, and look to become the point of contact for any Brigade Media events and activities. Therefore, if you have something which may be of Media interest then please do get in touch.

Finally, I look forward to undertaking the challenges of my new role and supporting our people to the best of my ability.

Contact Details Office: 05254 982 4953 Duty Mobile: 01732 098 662

Information Study Day In October, the HQ 20 Armd Inf Bde Staff and key personalities from across the other Units came together to attend an Information Study Day, which took place in the Leicester Model Room on Normandy Barracks. Brigade Commander, Brigadier I Mortimer commenced the day with an opening address and set the scene explaining that the event was aimed to explore and develop a greater understanding of the complicated world of the ‘Information Environment’. The highly interesting topic then delved into how, as an organisatio, we can work more positively and effectively within the fast moving information environment, which include so many moving parts such as Facebook, Twitter, mobile communications, Internet and so many more information technology infrastructures and systems.

The keynote speaker for the day was the lead researcher for Bellingcat. com, Mr Veli-Pekka Kimivaki. He and his team have used completely open source information, such as Google streetwise and YouTube footage uploaded from mobile phones to prove that a Russian SAM downed the MH17 flight also proving the deployment of regular Russian troops to east Ukraine and this work has been recently shown on Sky News. There were also are representatives and speakers from across the information and intelligence spectrum who gave interesting and thought provoking presentations. The Day was hugely successful and very enlightening in a fast changing information which was led and organised by Major Jim Hadfield MBE, 5 RIFLES and Captain John Black, HQ 20 Armd Inf Bde.

The Big Brew Up It was that time of year again, the SSAFA Big Brew Up. So the HQ 20 Armd Inf Bde staff, families and children gathered to sample some delicious homemade cakes to help raise money for an extremely good cause. A big ‘Thank You’ goes to all those who slaved away in the kitchens to bake some real masterpieces, all of which would have impressed Mary Berry herself! Louise Birch did an excellent job carolling the goodies and ensuring everyone received a good selection of those on offer. ‘Well Done’ to SSgt Ian O’Brien who put himself in the firing line, dressed in rather strange looking forensic suit, for the custard pie challenge.

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5th BATTALION THE RIFLES

Welfare Team

Office Opening Times

Welfare Officer - Capt Nick Hedges Welfare SNCO - Sjt Richard Udale Welfare JNCO - LCpl Michael Walker Welfare Clerk - Mrs Claire Ellis

Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri: 0800 to 1730hrs Wed: 0800 to 1230hrs

05251 101 582 05251 101 582 05251 101 513 05251 101 513

Out of hours contact - 05251 101 534

Providing & Improving Until the End Families of 5 RIFLES recently gathered for the official opening of their recently improved welfare centre facilities, which included a wall muriel painted by one of the wives from the Battalion. Although the welfare team at 5 RFILES already provided a great environment for the wives to meet, the recent changes have made the centre more inviting and with their new soft play area, which will enable the welfare team to offer services beyond the coffee mornings.

Jan Parker, whose husband is attached to the 5 RIFLES LAD, praised the welfare team, she said, “The welfare team are great at looking after their families and listening to what we want, there’s always someone available to listen to us. I think the facilities are really good, the wives are great and we can chat whilst the children play together.” Jan went on to say, “The new soft play area will give us the opportunity to use these fantastic facilities for Birthday parties and general bookings, this is something I intend to use.”

The changes to the welfare centre were made due to the demand for such facilities and it was the wives committee who were the driving force in requesting the improvements, with the welfare team and personnel from 5 RIFLES implementing these requests. It is hoped that the improvements will draw more families into the welfare centre, especially those who may have never been before, and have all been put in place to make any visit a more enjoyable, relaxing experience. Parents will have the ability to enjoy a coffee and chat, whilst their children play in a safe environment. The changes to the welfare centre were predominantly self-sufficient, with some of the costs being covered by the Battalion’s welfare fund. The soft play area was kindly gifted from Bergen-Hohne Garrison, due to their drawdown from BFG and was moved by personnel from 5 RIFLES, who travelled to Bergen-Hohne Garrison to dismantle the equipment from within the Roundhouse, and subsequently they spent two confusing weeks rebuilding it.

At the official opening, Lt Col Mark Wilson, Commanding Officer 5 RIFLES spoke to the families present, “I am delighted to be able to open today the new Soft Play area for the families of 5 RIFLES. Whilst it may seem odd in light of our planned move to the UK next summer, it remains of fundamental importance that where we can make improvements to our lives in Germany, that we do so. The recent refurbishment of the welfare office, coupled with the addition of the soft play area is an important part of that. Hopefully this will encourage more families to come into the Welfare office on a regular basis to meet with other families, carry out routine business or learn more about Bulford.” Lt Col Wilson then went on ask his wife, Katherine who is the Chair of the wives committee, to cut the ribbon to declare the soft play area open.

Attending the coffee morning for the first time was Naomi Brooks and her two children, Rosaleigh (19 months) and Leila (10 months). Naomi said, “I have lived in Paderborn for 3 years but I suffer from social anxiety, so attending this morning is a big deal for me. I am overwhelmed, however I am happy that I gave it a go as this will be a great platform for me to start to mingle with the other wives of 5 RIFLES.” Also attending her first coffee morning was Stefanie Griffiths and her daughter Faith (17 months). Stefanie said, “I am glad that I came, my daughter Faith is really enjoying herself and the facilities here are so much more than I expected. I will definitely be coming back again.”

Capt Nick Hedges, Welfare Officer, explained that the improvements were implemented to draw in wives just like Naomi and Stefanie and he hopes it will encourage more to enjoy facilities they have on offer, he explained, “If you’ve not come before, or was put off for any reason, things have changed dramatically, including the team, so please come along and give it a try. With our impending move back to the UK next year, this safe and friendly environment will give you the opportunity to ask those all important questions about the move and how it will affect you.”

the QUEEN’S ROYAL HUSSARS Welfare Office Opening Times Contact Telephone Numbers Mon - Thu: 0830 - 1700hrs Fri: 0830 - 1300hrs

Tel: 05254 982 2344 Out of hours in an emergency: Guard Room 05254 982 2433

Find us on Facebook - The Queen’s Royal Hussars

COS Land Forces visits BFG The Chief of Staff (COS) Land Forces, Major General T P Robinson CBE, visited British Forces Germany (BFG) on 8th October 2015. The General met with a range of service personnel and their families to gain an understanding of the Firm Base Support being provided and how this is impacted as we move through rebasing.

Having served as the Commanding Officer of the 9th/12th Royal Lancers (Prince of Wales’s) now the Royal Lancers - stationed in Bergen Hohne Garrison, Major General Robinson has a personal and professional attachment to Germany.

Visiting the Queens Royal Hussars (QRH) based on Athlone Barracks, Sennelager, his first stop was a visit to the Tank Park, to meet with personnel from D Squadron where he heard first hand from soldiers and their families about how well they are being supported in terms of firm base and how this impacts on them on a day to day basis. He also met with personnel from the LAD, where he heard of the positives of serving within a Regiment based in Germany.

A tour of the A Squadron Common Room and the Corporals’ Mess allowed Maj Gen Robinson to see first hand the facilities which are available to the soldiers during their recreational time.

Maj Gen Robinson took the opportunity to look around the recently refurbished Welfare Centre, which is seen as the Regimental hub for families. This provided the ideal opportunity for the Regiment to demonstrate how they are continuing to provide support and deliver improvements, which will help to enrich the lives of their families to the end of their time in BFG. This element of the visit provided the families with an opportunity to speak with him directly and provide insight into their thoughts and feelings of living and working within Germany. He welcomed the frank and honest accounts of their time in BFG and their personal opinions of the support and services that are available to them, in particular, Education, Employment and Childcare.

Brigadier Ian Bell, Comd British Forces said, “Maj Gen Robinson’s visit demonstrates the continued senior level focus on supporting British service personnel and their families who are based in Germany. BFG and the Army are committed to ensuring a high level of firm base service continues to be provided.”

43

3 cs battalion reme Welfare Office Opening Times

PRI Shop Opening Times

Mon - Thu 0830 - 1600 Fri 0830 -1500

Mon, Tue & Thu 0900 - 1600* Wed & Fri 0900 -1300

Tel: 05251 101713

*Closed for lunch 1200 - 1300

Out of hours emergency contact via: Guardroom: 05251 101243 Battalion Orderly Officer: 01722 0866330

Tel: 05251 8728785 Facebook: Barker Barracks PRI Shop Fully stocked with Yankee candles and gifts!

Ex DYNAMIC DIVA 2015 On a cold and damp Saturday morning, 14 ladies met on the parade square ready to start their training as part of Ex DYNAMIC DIVA. Events were kicked off by the infamous and feared drill instructor Sgt Nicholls who put the ladies through their paces with some simple march commands. The recruits were in awe at the sheer skill and precision set by Sgt Nicholls, in particular Cfn Pauline Wright who seemed to excel in her speed and sense of direction!

After collecting their weapons the recruits made their way to the Goldgrund Training Area to set up camp. Following a brief talk on how to put up a poncho correctly by LCpl Tilija, the recruits got down to building their sleeping areas for the night. Before heading back to camp for the next task, the recruits got together for a group photo. Cfn Tina Bruce, Pte Becky Moffat and Cfn Zara Turner climbed to great heights on top of a vehicle to ensure the photo was given a real action shot feel!

On returning to Barker Barracks, the group were split into two sections and each had their turn using the indoor shooting simulation facility at 1 PWRR. A brilliant effort was made by all, in particular Cfn Pauline Wright and Cfn Elsbeth Millar who left the training staff in disbelief at their shooting accuracy, the competition was now officially on! Despite their best efforts it was Cfn Sam Payne who managed to score the highest and win the task for Section 2. Once finished it was time to head back out to the training area where an afternoon of ‘Command Tasks’ lay ahead.

Sgt Moffat (aka the Gaffer) set out 4 tasks for each section to undertake over the course of the afternoon, testing each recruit to their limit both physical and mentally. By far the most physically challenging was the recovery of a vehicle through waist deep mud and water. 100% was given by everybody especially Pte Tissington, who enjoyed the mud bath so much; she decided to face plant the murky water whilst attempting to run through the course! It was a tough job but both sections, through sheer grit and determination, carried out the task successfully.

With all events complete, the recruits headed back to the ‘Harbour’ for a change of clothes and to settle down to a delicious ration pack feast. The evening ended with a delicious Nepalese Curry provided by LCpl Tilija for all to sample. After a few light beverages around the camp fire everyone returned to their ponchos for some well-earned sleep.

Sunday morning started at the unearthly hour of 0615hrs with the sound of a very loud fog horn. After a hearty ‘Rat Pack’ breakfast and hot cup of tea, both sections headed out for some bayonet training. Everyone took it in turns to run the bayonet course taking out some serious aggression on each stand. It was like a scene out of Apocalypse Now with some very scary war faces. The screams from Cfn Ruthie Nicholls, Cfn Natasha Gemmell and Cpl Zoe Battiscombe echoed out over the training area as they tore through the task; even the training staff were slightly scared as they attempted to make the experience as realistic as possible chasing after each person with fake blood.

The bayonet training marked the end of the exercise on the area and the recruits headed for the minibuses back to Barker Barracks. LCpl Jo Rumney however decided to use her initiative and find an alternative method of transportation instead of walking the couple of clicks back to base. This was soon discovered whilst waving to the Gaffer on her way past!

A light PT session (apparently) at the gym marked the end of what was an eventful weekend. All that was left to do now was hand in the weapons, shower and a change of clothes before an outstanding three course meal was laid on in the WO’s & Sgt’s Mess cooked by LCpl Gurung.

A lot of effort went in to the exercise this year making the experience as realistic as possible. There were no comfy beds or tents and all activities were conducted by people who volunteered their spare time to help over the weekend. On behalf of all the Dynamic Divas, a special ‘Thank You’ must be made to everyone involved in organising the event and ensuring all the ladies were looked after.

44

35 ENGINEER REGIMENT Welfare Office Opening TimesÂ

Mon - Thu 0900 -1400 Fri 0900 -1200Â Mon - Thu 1400-1630 (Appointments Only) Out of Hours: Barker Barracks Guard Room: 05251 101 243

Regimental Round-Up

Unit Welfare Team

UWO UW SNCO CLERK

Telephone

Capt Mark Brookfield Sgt Craig Broomhall Miss Marion Graham

05251 101 213

Despite the days shortening and the temperature dropping, the pace of life at 35 Engineer Regiment over the next few months shows no sign of slowing. With this high pace though comes excellent opportunities for our Sappers to deploy throughout the world, testing their Armoured, Combat Engineering and Trade skills.

Combat Engineering in the Czech Republic Members of Combat Support Troop, 44 Headquarters and Support Squadron completed a combat engineering exercise in the Czech Republic. The task was to upgrade an existing British Military Training Team facility. It involved constructing two Sangers and building a HESCO perimeter wall around a compound.

Construction in Kenya

77 Armoured Engineer Squadron have deployed to Kenya on a construction tour. The tour will see them build on the work of other Engineer Squadrons and take a step closer to the completion of the training facilities in Kenya. 7 Troop and 8 Troop will be working on an armoury, the community centre and the finance building. 9 Troop will be engaged in a number of community support tasks including upgrading a road and improvements to a local school.

Battlefield Study in Berlin 29 Armoured Engineer Squadron deployed on a 4-day battlefield study to research and discuss the final stages of WW2, in particular the Battle of Berlin in 1945 following the long retreat of the German Army.

Four-day battlefield study

Armoured Exercise in Germany 37 Armoured Engineer Squadron have been perfecting their armoured engineering skills on a two-week exercise in Germany. This is an important step in their preparation for deployment to Canada next year.

Sport In between all the busy work schedules, our Sappers have found the time for sporting success on both the cricket (BA (G) Championships) and football pitch. Others completed the 163km Nijmegen March.

BA (G) Cricket Championships 45

1 ARMOURED MEDICAL REGIMENT Welfare Office Opening Times

Contact Telephone Numbers

Mon-Thu: 0900 - 1530hrs Fri: 0900 - 1230hrs Closed for Lunch: 1230 - 1330hrs

Unit Welfare Officer - 05254 982 2417 Unit Welfare SNCO - 05254 982 2904 Unit Welfare Clerk - 05254 982 2436

Find us on Facebook - 1AMR Welfare Dept

Out of hours (via Regimental Orderly Officer) - 01722 183 996

The Hunger Surgery Café

The Gift Box (PRI Shop)

Opening Hours Mon-Fri: 0900 - 1400hrs

Opening Hours Mon-Fri: 0900 - 1445hrs

Message from Welfare Since arriving in Sennelager the last couple of months have been an extremely busy time, especially since many members of the Regiment are deployed around the world on various exercises and operations. Despite this, our ‘Welcome to Paderborn’ weekend took place in September, which consisted of a ‘Beating the Retreat’ and Cocktail Party to cement our new found friendship with the Western Kompanie and a parade complete with local dignitaries and VIPs; during this parade several members of the Regiment were presented with their Op GRITROCK medals. All would agree that the Regiment has definitely arrived in Dempsey Barracks.

Fax - 05254 982 482

•

Coffee mornings, every Thursday, from 0900hrs

•

Sun 01 Nov - Families Sunday Lunch.

Details to follow.

Welfare Facilities The Welfare Team have various facilities that are available to hire.

These include a PRI minibus, fully furnished flat, bouncy castle and the Serpents’ Retreat, a function room suitable for a wide range of events, such as children’s parties or work functions. If you would like any more details, please call the Welfare Office.

The Glyn Hughes Welfare Centre Families and friends of 1 AMR recently gathered for the formal ‘Grand Opening’ of The Glyn Hughes Welfare Centre, located within Dempsey Barracks.

Members of the Regiment were presented with their Op GRITROCK medals

Friends of 1 AMR Some of our wives and partners have come together to form a friends group; the ‘Friends of 1 AMR’ has been formed to unite the families and friends of 1 AMR, to provide equal opportunities and events where families of all ranks can mix and socialise together.

Commanding Officer, Lt Col Connolly, explained, “It is a real privilege to be opening this centre. It is named after Brigadier Hugh Llewellyn Glyn Hughes, who was the first Allied Medical Officer to enter the concentration camp at BergenBelsen, on 15th April 1945, attached to the 11th Armoured Division. He took control of the camp and the 4600 German and Hungarian soldiers placed at his command, by the German authorities. There have been many facilities named in his honour, including the main hospital after WWII and the Barracks he was posted to at Bergen-Hohne Garrison.

1 AMR began relocating to Paderborn five or six months ago. The Unit Welfare team were given the task to create a ‘heart’ for the Regimental families here in Dempsey Barracks as it becomes our home, and that has been accomplished with the Glyn Hughes Welfare Centre.”

For many of the families, the move to Paderborn has meant some adjustment, however the move has been positively received. Mrs Lindsay Walby, who has taken over the Regimental PRI Shop, The Gift Box, explained, “My family and I literally moved one week ago, so I haven’t had the chance to see much of Paderborn but I am excited to explore and see what there is on offer.”

Located within the Welfare Centre are the Unit Welfare team, The Hair Room (hairdressers) run by Mrs Jan Taylor, the Hunger Surgery café run by Mrs Ella Wilson and The Gift Box (PRI Shop). It is very much hoped over time the centre will expand and offer more facilities to the Regiment’s families.

46

Personnel Recovery Unit (Germany) Soldiers Visit Bavaria For Adventurous Training Overcoming challenge is nothing new for Wounded, Injured and Sick (WIS) soldiers and this attitude of drive and determination was certainly exemplified by soldiers from the Personnel Recovery Unit (PRU) in Sennelager who recently travelled down to Bavaria to undertake an Adventurous Training package.

Over five days the seven soldiers participated in mountain biking and kayaking, activities many of the soldiers had never attempted previously, before taking the opportunity to visit the famous Nebelhorn mountain where everyone scaled the peak to take in the breathtaking views.

As with all adventurous training the activities the soldiers took part in were designed to take them out of their comfort zone in a controlled and supervised environment reintroducing them to many skills that form the backbone of the army including physical and moral courage, teamwork and fitness but far more importantly for the WIS it gave them the opportunity to try something completely different and provide them with an alternative focus in a relaxed atmosphere.

For Sergeant Tony Watmuff this was certainly the case as he explained, “It has been surprisingly beneficial, enjoyable and challenging but certainly worth the effort. When you are stuck in a canoe in a middle of lake with someone you don’t really know you have to get on and talk and that has been really good for me.

The staff at the PRU are excellent and contribute massively to your recovery, being sup-portive and always looking to help build up your confidence again. Would I recommend adventurous training to others?

Definitely, it makes you realise you can overcome hurdles and this beautiful setting certainly helps!”

Seeing the soldiers perform so well was particularly pleasing for Major Andy Wilson, 2iC of the PRU who said, “It is a tremendous opportunity for them to come here down to Bavaria to try out some adventure training all of which is low level activity and nothing too arduous.

Adventurous training forms just one part of their recovery programme it gives them a chance to get away from their normal routine, try something different and make new friends.

At the start of the week there was anxiety and nervousness of not knowing what to expect but I can guarantee come the end of the week they will be different people for this experience.”

Lance Corporal Kennedy Ezeonyido said, “Since I was assigned to the PRU in April the staff have been fantastic, really positive giving me encouragement all the way through my recovery programme. I was determined to recover and get back to my unit, 35 Engr Regt who have also brilliant keeping in touch seeing how I am doing, and I am glad to say I will be starting back with the Unit on a graduated return to work programme shortly. This week’s adventurous training has been enjoyable, nice and relaxing. I enjoyed the cycling and the views at the top on the mountain were something else.”

Overall, the week was a tremendous success with both the WIS and the staff benefiting hugely much from the experience. Something Captain Rod Poulter, a Personnel Recovery Officer at the PRC was keen to confirm, “As staff we are here to inspire, enable and sup-port the WIS and adventurous training activities of this nature are of paramount importance, not only for WIS but also for soldiers back at Regiment.

The benefits of adventurous training cannot be underestimated, these activities stretch the guys and are character building; great strides can be achieved in 5 days in this type of environment.”

The visit to Bavaria ended for the PRU with a cultural visit to the famous Neuschwanstein castle.

110 provost company, royal military police Unit Welfare SNCO: SSgt Richard Allen

Opening Times & Contact Details: By appointment via Tel: 05254 982 2725 Out of hours via the Military Police Station on: 05254 982 2223 or Sennelager Mil: (79) 2223 Applying for a Temporary Visitor Authority - All Unit families are reminded that an application must be made prior to the arrival of any visitors from the UK to BFG. The application document, and guidance on its completion, can be obtained from the Unit Welfare SNCO. Contact Details - The Welfare team regularly pushes out pertinent information regarding on-going activities, initiatives and advice. If you believe you are not receiving this information stream, then please get in touch with the team to confirm your personal email address.

Coffee Mornings - Coffee mornings are held in the Welfare Room / Cpl’s Mess, between 1000-1200hrs, every other Friday. Come along, take the weight off your feet and have a brew.

Company Round-Up 110 Pro Coy, have had an extremely busy last couple of months with an ever increasing workload and what seems to be daily dwindling of manpower, everyone’s noses are well and truly to the grindstone. That said, the Unit are extremely determined to get people away from their desks and computer terminals to ensure that the ‘SOLDIER FIRST’ and ‘WORK HARD PLAY HARD’ ethos are at the forefront of the Unit’s mind.

In the last few months, 110 Pro Coy have participated in RMP and QRH sixes football tournaments, a shooting competition with the Bundeswehr, and adventurous training encompassing mountain biking and orienteering. Now with the end of Afghanistan, a change back to conventional warfare was inevitable. A 48hr teaching exercise was organised to re-install the methods that have not really been used for a number of years.

Also 1 RMP are providing a Cambrian Patrol team, where a weeks training was supplied, to give them the best chance of success, whilst competing in Brecon in Oct, conducting a river crossing along with a number of other disgusting tasks.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Mil Civ Forces Health Services (TAS) ........................ x.2333.............................................................. 05254 982 2333 Dental Emergencies (Out of Hours) ........... x.2414 ............................................................. 05254 982 2414 German Civil Police ....................................... 0-110 .............................................................. 110 German Civil Ambulance ............................. 0-112 .............................................................. 112 German Civil Fire ........................................... 0-112 .............................................................. 112 Babcock (Household Faults) ................................................................................................... 0800 888 4242 RMP (Routine Calls.....................................Mil: 2223 or Civ: 05254 982 2223 DEFENCE FIRE & RESCUE SERVICE Emergency.....................................................Mil: 2444 or Civ: 05254 982 2444 Watch Room.................................................Mil: 2367 or Civ: 05254 982 2367 Fire Station Manager...................................Mil: 4160 or Civ: 05254 9824160 Fire Safety Advice/Information................Mil: 2057 or Civ: 05254 982 2057

MEDICAL Barker Bks Medical Centre........Mil: 3258/3256 or Civ: 05251 101 258 326 MRS Sennelager (Main Reception).........Mil: 2414 or Civ: 05254 982 2414

SCHOOLS Bishopspark School..................................................................05251 543 9548 John Buchan Middle School....................Mil: 5411 or Civ: 05254 982 5411 King’s School, Gutersloh........................................................... 05241 84 2210 Chaplains Robert Browning School...........................Mil: 2401 or Civ: 05254 982 2401 Brigade Chaplain............................................Mil: 2051 or Mob: 0173 510 3404 William Wordsworth School....................Mil: 2698 or Civ: 05254 982 2698 QDG ..................................................................Mil: 2436 or Mob: 0172 208 6344 QRH ..................................................................Mil: 2966 or Mob: 0172 208 6315 Robert Browning Affiliated FS1 Settings 1PWRR ..............................................................Mil: 3274 or Mob: 0172 208 6347 Dempsey FS1.............................................Mil: .2603 or Civ: 05254 982 2603 35 Engr Regt & 3 CS BN REME ..................... Mil: 3932 or Mob: 0173 520 5861 Normandy FS1...........................................Mil: 2466 or Civ: 05254 982 2466 5RIFLES .............................................................Mil: 3559 or Mob: 0172 257 8097 Teddy Bears FS1...........................................................................05254 932 443 COMMUNITY SUPPORT Army Welfare Service ..................................Mil: 4340 or Civ: 05254 982 4340 British Forces Social Work Service .....................................Civ: 0800 724 3176 BFG Licensing Offices .................................Mil: 2638 or Civ: 05254 982 2638 Central Bank HQ ..........................................Mil: 4352 or Civ: 05254 982 4352 Customs & Immigration Advisor ..............Mil: 2372 or Civ: 05254 982 2372 Garrison Information Officer ....................Mil: 2069 or Civ: 05254 982 2069 Garrison Amenities (SO3 G1 Coord)........ Mil: 2032 or Civ: 05254 982 2032 Labour Support Unit (LSU)...........................Mil: 3516 or Civ: 05251 101 516 HIVE Sennelager..........................................................................05254 982 2771 HIVE Paderborn.................................................................................05251 57191 Service Liaison Officer ............................... .Mil: 3342 or Civ: 05254 982 3342 Veterinary Clinic ...........................................Mil: 2361 or Civ: 05254 982 2361 41 AEC ...............................................................Mil: 3552 or Civ: 05251 101 552 E-Learning Centre...........................................Mil: 3418 or Civ: 05251 101 418 Sennelager Library......................................................................05254 662 0630 Paderborn Library............................................Mil: 312 or Civ: 05251 101 128

Bishopspark School Affiliated FS1 Settings Honeypots FS1 ............................................................................05251 296603 NURSERIES AND FS1 SETTINGS (For those located at a school, see ‘SCHOOLS’) Acreswood Day Nursery, Paderborn....................................05251 878 1648 Happy Days Nursery Sennelager .........................................05254 930 5160 Happy Hippos ...........................................................................05254 930 5170 TRANSPORT Paderborn Bus Escort Supervisor............Mil: 2960 or Mob: 01722 074 539 Admin Transport Service...........................Mil: 2842 or Civ: 05254 982 2842 White Fleet Clerk.........................................Mil: 2343 or Civ: 05254 982 2343 Youth Club Transport ................................Mil: 4340 or Civ: 05254 982 4340

WELFARE OFFICES Normandy Welfare Ctr/1MWD...............Mil: 2383 or Civ: 05254 982 2383 QRH ...............................................................Mil: 2344 or Civ: 05254 982 2344 1AMR.....................................Mil: 2417 / 2904 or Civ: 05254 982 2417 / 2904 WRVS SERVICES WELFARE OFFICERS WRVS Alanbrooke Bks ..................................Mil: 3531 or Civ: 05251 101 531 35 Engr Regt............................Mil: 3213 / 3305 or Civ: 05251 101 213 / 305 WRVS Barker Bks.............................................Mil: 3229 or Civ: 05251 101 229 1 PWRR...........................................Mil: 3823/3321 or Civ:05251 101823/321 WRVS Dempsey Bks.....................................Mil: 4240 or Civ: 05254 982 4240 5RIFLES.....................................Mil: 3513 / 3582 or Civ: 05251 101 513 / 582 WRVS Normandy Bks..................................Mil: 2617 or Civ: 05254 982 2617 3 CS Bn REME.................................................Mil: 3713 or Civ: 05251 101 713 110 Pro Coy, 1 RMP......................................Mil: 2725 or Civ: 05254 982 2725 20th Armd Inf Bde.......................................Mil: 4699 or Civ: 05254 982 4699 DENTAL Alanbrooke Bks Dental Centre ....................Mil: 3645 or Civ: 05251 101 645 Barker Bks Dental Centre .............................Mil: 3290 or Civ: 05251 101 290 OTHER HELPLINES Normandy Bks Dental Centre....................Mil: 2482 or Civ: 05254 982 2482 Army Families Federation (0900-1400hrs)..........................01520 744 9741 BFG Relate...................................................................................05219 254 2709 Early Years Officers.........................................................05254 982 4902/4903 GUARD ROOMS Athlone Bks ..................................................Mil: 2428 or Civ: 05254 982 2428 Home-Start, Pad...........................................................................05251 528609 Alanbrooke Bks................................................Mil: 3534 or Civ: 05251 101 534 Home-Start, Sen.........................................................................05254 9304723 Barker Bks.........................................................Mil: 3243 or Civ: 05251 101 243 Royal British Legion..........................................05254 4208 or 05250 937 328 Dempsey Bks................................................Mil: 2328 or Civ: 05254 982 2328 Normandy Bks...............................................Mil: 2232 or Civ: 05254 982 2232 If you are using a military phone for the following freephone numbers, remember you still need to dial 0 before the helpline number: Childline........................................................................................0044 800 181 1111 HOUSING Housing Office...............................................Mil: 4435 or Civ: 05254 982 4435 Samaritans...................................................................................0044 8457 909090 SSAFA Forces Line (10.30 - 19.30, Mon-Fri)...........................0044 800 731 4880 Combat Stress 24hr Helpline....................................................0044 800 1381619 BFG PARENT PARTNERSHIP SERVICE Victim Support Central Referral...............................................0044 800 724 3176

HQ BFG, BFPO 140...........................Mil: 94881 2683 or Civ: 05219 254 2683

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Paderborn Anglo-German Club 2015 is the 50th Anniversay of the Anglo-German Club Special events will be orgainsed to commemorate the anniversary.

The Paderborn Anglo-German Club has been in existence since 1965 and its main purpose is the furtherance of friendly relations and mutual understanding between the British and German communities of Paderborn and the surrounding area.

You Break It, I´ll Try And Fix It I´LL HAVE A GO AT ANYTHING -Washing machines, Videos, TVs, Lawnmowers, Hoovers etc Need a hand to set up your satellite?

Also can supply and fit Freeveiw Satellite Give Chris your handyman a call On 0179 5107246

Contrary to popular belief, membership is open to ALL military personnel and civilians. Statistically there are more SNCO’s and Junior Ranks married into the German Community, than Officers and the Anglo-German-Club is run on civilian grounds. An elected committee, for the good and benefit of all club members, manage the Club.

Activities are chosen that are of equal interest to both the British and German members, the more that club members put in, the more the Anglo-German Club can give out. If somebody has an activity that they would wish to see included in the programme of events, they can propose it at the Annual General meeting, which is held in February.

Most if not all club members speak English, so communication is not a problem. The Paderborn Anglo-German Club is open to anyone of any age, race, rank or religion as long as they share the same principles of the Club founders in wanting to further the friendly relations and mutual understanding between the British and German communities of Paderborn and the surrounding area.

To become a member or to receive more information please contact one of the following: John Greaves, Treasurer on Tel: 05293 475 Heidi Johnstone, German Secretary on Tel: 05254 982 2723

35 ENGR REGT CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY FRIDAY 4th DECEMBER 1630-­‐1830hrs CORPORALS MESS BARKER BARRACKS CHRISTMAS CRAFTS, SANTA’S GROTTO, GIFT FROM SANTA, BUFFET & LOTS OF FUN!!!

€5 per child - Closing date: Friday 27th November

TICKETS FROM 35 WELFARE OFFICE

50

COMMUNITY CLIPBOARD

What is a Registered Childminder?

A Childminder:

We recommend parents use Childminders who are registered with BFEYS.



Cares for children in his/her own home.

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Plans engaging activities to help children progress with their learning.

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Is inspected by BFEYS (British Forces Early Years).

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Is trained in Paediatric First Aid, Safeguarding and Child Development.

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Assesses children’s learning through observations and ‘next steps’ using the EYFS.

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Is self employed; running their own business within their home and

Childminders who are not registered are not regularly inspected and therefore may not have the adequate training, knowledge and procedures in place to keep your children safe and to help their learning grow.

creating policies, procedures and contracts with parents. 

Attends network meetings with other Childminders to share ideas and advice.

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Can offer flexible working hours.

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Is covered by liability insurance.

If you are interested in becoming a registered Childminder or are a parent in need of a Childminder please contact: Clare Woods The Hive, Sennelager 01722 115393 or 05254 9824572 childminding.paderborn@sceschools.com

the overseas

experience survey

Tigers Den Presents

BARKER’s BINGO At the Tigers Den In Barker Bks Paderborn Anyone welcome Over 18 The MOD is currently reviewing the overseas offer.

Your experience matters and you could shape the future for Army families overseas.

Please help us help you.

www.aff.org.uk/overseasexperience

Friday 6 November 2015 Doors open @ 1900hrs Eyes down @ 1930hrs Contact Sgt Nige Thompson for Any further info on 0176 47071012