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The Household Cavalry Journal

Contents

Incorporating The Acorn and The Blue and Royal Preface by The Commander Household Cavalry ................... 4

Vol. No. 5 1997/8 Editor: Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) JS Olivier, The Blues and Royals.

Household Cavalry Regiment

Pages 5 - 25

Colonel-in-Chief Her Majesty The Queen Colonel of The Life Guards and Gold Stick :

Major General Lord Mirhael Fitzalan Howard GCVO, CB, CBE, MC, DL

Colonel of The Blues and Royals and Gold Stick:

General Sir Desmond Fitzpatrick, GCB, GCVO, DSO, MBE, MC

Commander Household Cavalry and Silver Stick: Commanding Officer Household Cavalry Regiment:

Colonel PS WF Falkner, OBE, The Life Guards

Lieutenant Colonel B WB White—Spunner, The Blues and Royals

Commanding Officer Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment:

Foreword by the Commanding Officer ................... 5 Diary of Events ..................................... 6 A Squadron, The Life Guards .......................... 9 B Squadron, The Life Guards ......................... 11 C Squadron, The Blues & Royals ...................... 13 D Squadron, The Blues 81 Royals ...................... 15 Headquarters Squadron .............................. 17

Lieutenant Colonel HS} Scott, The Life Guards

Quartermaster’s Department ..........................

Quartermaster Technical’s Department .................

Light Aid Detachment ..............................

W03’ and NCOs’ Mess ..............................

The Band of The Life Guards .........................

The Household Cavalry Recruiting Team ...............

Pastoral Notes from the Chaplain’s Office ...............

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

18 19 20 21 23 25 25

Pages 26 - 48

The Life Guards Battle Honours Dettingen Peninsula

Ypres (1914) Langmarck (1914)

Bapaume (1918) Arras (1917)

Souleuvre

Palmyra

Noireau Crossing

Syria (1941)

Waterloo

Gheluvelt

Ypres (1917)

Amiens (1944)

Tel el Kebir Egypt (1882)

Nonne Boschen St Iulien

Arras (1918)

Brussels

El Alamein .

Hindenburg Line

Neerpelt

North Africa (19424943)

V

Relief of Kimberley

Frenzenberg

Epehy

Nederriin

Arezzo

Ypres (1915) Somme (1916) Albert (1916) Scarpe (1917) (1918)

St Quentin Canal Cambrai (1918) Selle Somme (1918)

Nijmegen Lingen Bentheim North West Europe

Advance to Florenec

Retreat from Mons Marne (1914) Messines (1914)

Broodseinde Poelcappelle Passchendaele

France and Flanders (1914-18) Mont Pincon

(1944-1945) Baghdad (1941) Iraq (1941)

Italy (1944) Gu1f(1991)

Battle Honours Tangier (1662—1680)

Mons

Ypres (1917)

Mont Pincon

Dettingen

Le Cateau Retreat from Mons Marne (1914)

Somme (1918) St Quentin

Souleuvre, Noireau Crossing

Knightsbridge

Amiens (1944)

Defence of Alamein Line

Avre

Messines (1914)

Brussels

E1 Alamein

Broodseinde

Armentieres (1914)

Neerpelt Poelcappelle

El Agheila Advance on Tripoli

Willems Fuentes d’Onor Peninsula

Nederriin

Ypres (1914)

Musical Ride .......................................

The Band of The Blues and Royals .....................

Household Cavalry Training Wing .....................

Winter Training Troop ..............................

Equitation ........................................

41 45 46 47 48

WOs’ & NCOs’ Mess ................................ 35

Household Cavalry News

Pages 52 - 92

Gothic Line

The Blues and Royals

Beaumont

26 27 30 32 34

,

Paardeberg South Africa (1899-1900) Mons Le Cateau

Warburg

Foreword by the Commanding Officer ..................

Diary of Events ....................................

The Life Guards Mounted Squadron ...................

The Blues and Royals Mounted Squadron ...............

Headquarters Squadron ..............................

Tesex — April 1997 ..................................

The Queen’s visit to Combermere Barracks ..............

Open Day - Sunday 15 June ..........................

Exercise Bright Star .................................

Battlefield Tour - E1 Alamein .........................

2HCR Battlefield Tour — Normandy ....................

The Freedom of Windsor Parade ......................

A Squadron... “Live at the Palace” (Bosnia 1997) .........

The Big Freeze... D Squadron, Norway Deployment ......

Summer Camp .....................................

CSPA Tour to Argentina .............................

La Dolce Vita - Italy 97 ..............................

My Year with the HCR ..............................

Exercise Zulu Cockney - South Africa ..................

Exercise Maple Leaf (x) ..............................

Exercise Autumn Tango ..............................

Exchange Visit to the Garde Republicaine in Paris ........

53 54 56 57 59 60 62 63 65 67 68 69 70 72 73 74 77

The Special Commisioning Course Namibia 1997 ......... 79 Bosnian Elections... Order from chaos .................. 81 The Household Cavalry Regiment Sports The Household Cavalry Ski Team 1997/8 ................ 82 Rugger Football Cricket Riding the Cresta ................................... 85 The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment Sports Polo .............................................. 86 Cricket

Passchendaele

Waterloo

Langemarck (1914)

Balaklava

Gheluvelt

Amiens

Veghel Nijmegen

North Africa (1941-1943)

Arczzo Advance to Florence Gothic Line

Sicily (1943)

Hindenburg Line Sevastpol

Nonne Bosschen Beaurevoir

Egypt

Cambrai (1918)

Tel el Kebir

St Julien Ypres (1915)

Rhine North West Europe

(1944-1945)

Frezenberg

Sambre

Relief of Kimberley

Baghdad (1941)

Loos Arras (1917)

Pursuit to Mons

Paardeberg Relief of Ladysrnith

Iraq (1941)

France and Flanders

Palmyra

South Africa (1899»1902)

Scarpe (1917)

(1914-1918)

Syria (1941)

Italy (1943—1944) Falkland Islands (1982)

recipient. The opinions expressed in the articles in this journal are those Crown Copyright: This publication contains official information. it should be treated with discretion by the (:L1\“.1lt"\'t)rll’t e Ministry of Defence. No responsibility lor the goods or serofthe authors and do not necessarily reflect the policy and views. official or otherwise. of the Household advertisements are included in gootl ltllll’l. vices advertised in this journal can be accepted by the Household Cavalry, publishers or printers and

Road, Northampton NN3 6AQ. Tel: 01604 497565 The Journal was designed and printed by Crest Publications, Moulton Park Centre, Redhouse

News from the Associations The Life Guards Association Annual Report .............

Minutes of the 63rd AGM of The Life Guards Association . . .

The Life Guards Association Charitable Trust Accounts .....

Association Notices ...................................

The Blues and Royals Annual Report .....................

Minutes ofthe AGM ofthe Blues & Royals ................

The Blues and Royals Association Accounts ..............

Association Notices ...................................

Notices for both Regiments .............................

89 89 90 92 93 98 94 96 97

Pages 89 - 112

Household Cavalry Museum ............................ 98 Obituaries: The Life Guards ............................ 98 Obituaries: The Blues and Royals ........................99 Nominal Rolls ....................................... 103 The Household Cavalry Association (Dorset Branch) ....... 108 An Old Warrior’s Profile .............................. 110 Notices ............................................. 1 1 1 Book Review ........................................ 112

Covers : The Front Cover shows:

The Rear Cover shows:

The Queen at D Squadron’s Arctic Warfare Stand, during her visit to The Household Cavalry Regiment.

Princess of Wales Funeral Procession passing through the Tilt Yard at Horse Guards.

Household Cavalry Regiment Household Cavalry Regiment

Preface

Household Cavalry Regiment

by Colonel PSWF Falkner, The Life Guards Commander Household Cavalry.

Foreword by Lieutenant Colonel BWB White-Spunner, 0 doubt the Commander House— hold Cavalry reflects every year on the extraordinary diversity of events that are recorded in the Journal. Each year seems busier than the last and this one is no exception. Looking at the forecast, next year will see no let up.

This is no bad thing; our remit is to pro— vide, from Knightsbridge, the very highest standard of ceremonial excellence and from Windsor highly trained reconnaissance soldiers who are always at the very cutting edge of the field army. These two apparently contradic— tory roles are what gives us our unique— ness and strength and our ability to do both to the standards required lends us all an unusual versatility which is apparent from the pages that follow.

Change is the order of the day. Since the early 19905 the Army has been subjected to a number of reviews, one of which resulted in the Union of our two Regiments. Even now the Strategic Defence

Review, called for by the new Govern— ment, is approaching conclusion and its impact on the Household Cavalry can only be guessed at. What we hope for, of course, is that we are able to continue unchanged in Knightsbridge and that the Household Cavalry Regiment retains its exciting role in the forefront of the army’s deployable forces. It is this after all that enables us to recruit and

retain the best quality of officers and other ranks. At the time of writing the Household Cavalry is some 70 under strength. In this we are no different to the Army as a whole but we are working hard to redress the balance and we rely heavily on our excellent recruiters and retired members to encourage young men to join. It is also a great credit to all ranks serving that manpower deficiencies have not interfered with our performance. This is especially true of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment which is some 50 soldiers under strength yet consistently produces the highest standards.

During the past year we have been pillo-

ried in the Press for being unrepresenta— tive of the ethnic makeup of the country.

Ethnic minorities form about 7% of the population and the Commission for

Racial Equality has given us until

The Blues and Royals, Commanding Officer. he Regiment has just returned from exercising our Freedom of Windsor.

The day started with the Mayor presenting NATO medals to D Squadron in Windsor Castle during a snow storm. It was followed by the whole Regiment marching past The Mayor & Council of The Royal Borough on the steps of the Guildhall. All five squadrons marched together, with the Standards carried in Spartan vehicles, both bands and a mounted detachment. After the parade the Council gave the whole Regiment lunch. It was a wonderful day, if a bitterly cold one, and it marked the end of an eventful year.

Colonel PSWF Falkner, The Me Guards Commander Household Cavalry

March 1998 to prove that we are not racist as an organisation. Of course we know that we are not and we are working hard to prove it. As I write we are awaiting our first ethnic minority officers and soldiers. Recruiting them has been difficult enough but we are confi— dent that we have found the right quality and that, in a very short time, such ethnic minority officers and soldiers will become quite normal to see as Household Cavalrymen both at Windsor and Knightsbridge.

Women are now allowed to serve in all parts of the Army except for the Household Cavalry, the Royal Armoured Corps, and the Infantry. Even these areas are under review. But our two bands are open to women and the first recruits are already undergoing their musical training at the Army School of Music.

Three should be in Riding School by May 1998. They must of course attain the normal Household

Cavalry standards of riding and musical ability and there will be no concessions in dress. The important thing is that uniformity is retained when on parade.

For the moment the Household Cavalry Regiment’s involvement in Bosnia has come to an end with D Squadron’s

return after a very successful tour in November 1997.

This followed six squadron tours as well as the deployment of RHQ and HQ Squadron. As part of the highest readiness troops in the Army the Regiment was also stood by for operations in Zaire as well as deploying to Egypt in October. Much of 1998 will be spent in Canada and days away from home will considerable.

As I said at the beginning, it is the ver— satility of our officers and other ranks which enables both our regiments to be so successful and they do so despite the changes imposed on them and despite manpower shortages. Our Warrant Offi— cers and Non Commissioned Officers remain top quality and we consistently provide more than our fair share of RCMs to Yeomanry and other regiments as well as senior instructors at Bovington. Ethnic minority recruits are beginning to flow in and we will shortly have women in the bands. There will be fur— ther changes ahead. None of this should worry us. They are merely symptoms of universal change which will quickly become normal to us. We will continue to recruit, retain, train, lead and manage our people to maintain the Household Cavalry’s great strength.

Since I wrote last year’s Forward every sabre squadron has completed a tour in Bosnia; C Squadron returned from Glamoc in Herceg Bosna last February and B Squadron from Banja Luka in March. A Squadron followed B in Banja Luka from March to July and D Squadron followed them in turn from July until December.

All squadrons were kept very busy, particularly D who had to cope with two sets of elections as well as an attempted coup. Apart from their purely military work ensuring military compliance with the Dayton Agreement, the Regiment has also done an enormous amount of humanitarian work in Northern Bosnia. I can not list all the projects here but I must mention the five nursery schools that we have renovated - Radost, Novo Selo, Sitnes, Srbac, and Alexandravac. I must also mention the refugee Village of Orahovo which has been made into a viable community by the Regiment’s efforts. Lt C P MacDonald LG, was even elected Mayor and his Corporal of Horse, CoH Poynter LG, Deputy Mayor by the grateful residents. Lt Macdonald was

duly awarded a QCVS in recognition of his work there. It is, however, nice to have everyone home for Christmas and for the whole Regiment to be together for four months until Easter.

Another high point of the year was Exercise Bright Star in Egypt last October.

RHQ, B, C & HQ Squadrons deployed under command of an Ameri— can Division as part of a multi-national exercise. We spent two weeks conduct»

ing low level training in the Western

Desert near Alamein and carried out our Annual Firing on a range built on the edge of The Qattara Depression. We then had four days R & R, did a two . day tour of the Alamein Battlefield, led by Brigadier The Duke of Wellington, and then participated in a ten day ,_ exercise. It was a most valuable opportunity to rehearse our role in the new Joint Rapid Deployment Force and to train in the vast open spaces of the desert.

Lieutenant Colonel BWB While-Spanner on Ex Bright Star

Otherwise we have had the usual hectic round of training, support to other exer» cises, firing, individual trade courses and so on. We are very lucky to have such a challenging role at Windsor. The Regiment continues to be 3rd.United Kingdom Division’s Formation Reconnaissance and, within that framework, A & C Squadrons support 5 Airborne Brigade and B 8: D support 3 Commando Brigade. We continue to have a large number of soldiers passing “P Coy” and wearing the red beret and we now also have a steady stream through the All Arms Commando Course.

Our role means that we always have one squadron on short notice to deploy with the Joint Rapid Deployment Force and that squadron maintains one air droppable troop at very short notice to enplane.

Last year that troop was stood to four times; twice for Zaire, once for Albania and once for Bosnia.

1998 will be dominated by our provision of the enemy force at the Army‘s train— ing base at Suffield in Canada. We crew a fleet of specially converted CVR(T) and act as a live opposing force for exer» cising battle groups. B & C Squadrons will be in Canada from April until July and A 81 D from August until October.

In September we are doing our own dedicated Formation Reconnaissance exer-

cise at Suffield which is a first and which should be both interesting and rewarding. Canada offers many oppor— tunities for excellent training, both of

the conventional and adventurous variety, as well as for R & R and it should be a very enjoyable package. 1998 should also see our vehicles start to be fitted with their new diesel engines and Thermal Imaging sights should be installed in 1999.

With such a busy year last year, and with so much absence to come in this, I would not want to end without paying tribute to all that our long suffering fam— ilies put up with. We are one of the most heavily committed regiments in the Army and it does mean that we are all away from home far too much. Howev— er, hopefully the creation of a third Reconnaissance Regiment last year and the possibility of a fourth in this may mean that the worst of our separation is over by 1999. I also briefly want to congratulate those who have been honoured in the last twelve months; CoH Kirkpatrick RHG/D for his MBE, Lt C P Macdonald for his QCVS and Capt Rhodes-Stampa LG, for his GOC’s Commendation and WOZ Fisher RHG/D and SCpl Flynn LG, for their Joint Commander’s Commendations which were all earned in Bosnia.

We are very busy at Windsor but we are also very lucky. We have got an excel» lent role, we are based in our home town, we are nearing full manning and we have wonderfully supportive families. We are ending 1997 and looking forward to 1998 with the comfortable feeling of a job well done but looking forward to more to come.

Household Cavalry Regiment

Diary of Events January 7 - 22 February A Sqn Bosnia training at Lulworth, on Salisbury Plain, and at Sennybridge in Wales

Ski/rig on Exercise Frozen Crane in Canada CoH Wells. SCp/ Mat/Itder, COH Stevenson. Capra/n WJP Srrnpsoanee and Tpr Brook

The Mayor of W/ndsor taking the Sa/ute at the Freedom of Windsor Parade

10 - 2 March D Sqn Winter deployment to Norway with 3 Commando Bde

14 - 18 April Command Troop, To Signals’ School RAC Centre then Salisbury Plain for radio tests of the replacement wireless to Clansman kit.

15 - 10 February C Sqn return from Bosnia, Medal Parade, and Leave.

20 - 24 Army Air Corps Battle Group Trainer with HCR input.

A Squadron on TALO W/m 5 Airborne Bde. Colonel of The Ufe Guards. Col PB Rogers. The Duke 0/ We/l/ngton and others watchrng the Drunihead Serwce during HCR Open Day

28 - 23 March C Sqn support TESSEX for lst Bn The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment and are stood to, ready to deploy to Zaire.

l7 - 7 July B Sqn support lst Mechanised Brigade’s FTX on Salisbury Plain.

10 RHG/D Association Dinner.

11 Cavalry Memorial Parade.

23 LG Band beat retreat at Officers’ House.

29 H Cav Recruiters’ Day at Windsor.

March

February

12 Her Majesty The Queen, Colonel—inChief, visits Combermere.

Regt 21C recce for Ex Bright Star in 13 - 16 Egypt.

Potential recruits work experi ence visit.

C Sqn fire at 3rd Division’s Skill-atArms Competition and win the Falling Plate match.

7

18 - 20 CO visits Bosnia.

1 H Cav recruiting video filming starts.

2

10 - 14 HQ 3 (UK) Division’s Command Post Ex lst Foray.

ll - 16

HCR judge RMA Sandhurst Drill Competition.

4 HCR Battle Group “Deep Battle” Study Day and dinner night.

7 — 28

May 1 -2

24 - 28 C Sqn support lst Gurkha Rifles’ Bat—

All month D Sqn pre-Bosnia training at Lul— worth and on Salisbury Plain.

HCR Battle Group TESTEX on Salisbury Plain.

1st Call.

22 - 24 A Sqn replace B Sqn in Bosnia.

8 26 - 6 June Comd Tp support HQ 3rd Division’s Command Post Ex.

June

CO visits Bosnia and Norway.

17 - 21 C Sqn to lst Mechanised Brigade FTX

B Sqn support Troop Leaders’ ex on Salisbury Plain.

Commander H Cav visits.

11 - l4 Troop Leaders’ Test Exercise on Salisbury Plain.

Airportability Study Day at Air Movements’ Centre South Cerney.

20 - 23

April 2

D Sqn support Troop Leaders’ ex on Salisbury Plain.

2-3

9-25 C Sqn support 5 Airborne Brigade FTX in Scotland.

13 - 23 CO, 21C, Ops Offr, and QM recce Ex Bright Star in Egypt.

20 - 27 A and D Sqns swap in Bosnia.

12 - 13 C Sqn support Troop Leaders’ training on Salisbury Plain.

21-23 Comd Tp Support HQ lst Reece Brigade tactics seminar.

Combermere surveyed for UNICOM installation.

18 - 12 September B Sqn support the British Army Equipment Exhibition.

21 - 25

24 A Sqn Medal Parade.

5 Vehicles load for Ex Bright Star.

7 Annual LG v RHG/D cricket match at Burton Court (another LG victory).

8 - 14 B Sqn support 3 Commando Brigade ex in Wales and Devon.

A Sqn support 5 Airborne Brigade ex in Scotland.

14 - 15 CO’s Command Post Exercise.

17 Lunch for Lieutenant Colonel (QM) Meakin.

Support to HCMR Summer Camp.

19 21 Sea containers arrive for Ex Bright Star.

27 HCR lead final coordination conference for Ex Bright Star.

27 - 31 Recruiting Team visit Liverpool and the Chatsworth Show.

14 HM The Queen’s Birthday Parade.

LG Association Dinner.

1 - 3 Recruit firing on Guided Weapons near Larkhill, Salisbury Plain.

10 - 20 18 - 23

6 21 - 2 April Easter leave.

H Cav Recruiting Team run an Adventure Training Camp for potential recruits at The Guards’ Adventure Training Centre, Fremington, Devon.

July

Grand Military Race meeting (success for Captain Ogden LG).

Lunch for Majors Giles and Lane RHG/D.

All month

B Sqn support Recruiting Team visit to Sunderland.

1 - l4

2-7

August

28 C Sqn support Airborne Forces’ Day.

The Band of The Life Guards play/n9 at Ban/a Luke Cast/e with A Son.

Sta/King Moose rn CVHT. Norway

Commission for Racial Equality visit.

22 H Cav Offrs, W05, and SNCOs dine out Col P B Rogers Commander H Cav. Z3 - 5 November Comd Tp, B, C, and HQ Sqns, E Bty 1 RHA, A Coy 1 LI, B Coy 2 PARA Ex Bright Star Egypt.

23 » 26 Support lst Bn Scots Guards’ Battle Group Trainer.

September 26

tle Group Trainer.

6-9 29 - 7 April

B Sqn Medal Parade then Leave.

C Sqn support 5 Airborne Brigade Trainer.

15 HCR Drumhead Service and Open Day.

24 - 26 August All personnel stationed at Combermere take 18 days’ leave during this period.

1-4

H Cav recruiters’ meeting.

HCR Battlefield Tour to Northern France with veterans of 2HCR.

Household Cavalry Regiment Household Cavalry Regiment

27

4

10 - 31

Support Windsor Police Open Day.

Battle Fitness Test: 100% pass.

Comd Tp support lst Allied Rapid Reaction Corps NATO ex.

A Squadron, The Life Guards

6

27 - 28 Recruiting Team host Crown and Manor Boys’ Club.

Party at Windsor Castle for those who helped extinguish the fire.

8 - 18

29 - 1 October A Sqn support Joint Services’ Staff College demonstration, and Troop Leaders Course on Salisbury Plain.

Royal Wessex Yeomanry race (H Cav 2nd!).

14

S Airborne Brigade Tactical Airland Operations’ and Riggers’ course at RAF Brize Norton.

14 Army Benevolent Fund Band Concert.

14 - 20 B Sqn support 3 Commando Brigade

October Ex Bright Star in Egypt for RHQ,B, C, and HQ Sqns, including; Airborne and Amphibious insertion Annual Firing in Qattara Depression leave in Cairo, up the Nile and on the Red Sea El Alamein Commonwealth Commemoration Service and Battlefield Tour led by Brigadier The Duke of

15

Wellington

20 - 24

Army Military History Conference.

16 Windsor Park Equestrian Club Lunch.

18 Guard Room inspection.

ZIC, Ops Offr, and QM recce United States’ Army Simulation exercise at Grafenwoehr, Bavaria.

10 day exercise providing formation Reconnaissance for 3rd US Infantry Division.

20 - 4 November A Sqn support NATO Command Post

9 . 14 D Sqn return from Bosnia.

Ex at Sennybridge, Wales.

24 Visit by the new Major General commanding The Household Division (Major General E J Webb-Carter OBE formerly Grenadier Guards).

EX Purple Link at RAF Chicksands.

30 - 31

12 Troopers’ Christmas Dance.

13 WOs’ and NCOs’ Mess Draw.

15 Children’s outing to Windsor pantomime.

17 Freedom of Windsor Parade for HCR complete after D Sqn Medal Parade at Windsor Castle.

Carol Service in Garrison Church with lst Battalion Scots Guards.

WOs and SNCOs to Officers’ Mess.

18 Brick hanging.

A Sqn support Troop Leaders’ ex on

Salisbury Plain.

28 - 10 January Ski team on Ex Cockney Powderhound in the Alps.

December Field of Remembrance.

1

5 Airborne Brigade March and Shoot

9 Remembrance Day Parade.

Salute taken by new Commander H Cav

Col P S W F Falkner LG. 10 - 17 Leave.

Leave.

NB. Throughout the year Household Cavalrymen attend Royal Marine Commando and Parachute Selection training.

November 6

19 - 5 January 1998

Bosnia was on everyone’s mind at the start of 1997. With a new Squadron Leader at the helm, the Squadron set off to Lulworth, Salisbury Plain and the Brecon Beacons for a short, sharp intro— duction to Peace Support Operations.

The programme was intensive but, in hindsight, prepared the Squadron for a dramatic change of events at the end of our tour. Preparations for Bosnia went exceptionally smoothly - much credit must go to the unsung heroes in HQ Squadron, namely the QM, QM(T), MTO/Families Officer and Paymaster.

They set us off on the road to Bosnia — all we had to do was pack our bags and go through the air mounting procedure, which at long last has been greatly simplified. Taking over from B Squadron was a smooth transition and we hit Bosnia running.

In barracks SCM Camp and SQMC Pringle had the bit firmly between their teeth and totally revamped the Wood

Factory.

LCpl Wood and a team of

cohorts built a JNCOs bar whilst CoH McGuire (RHG/D) put his Blue—RedBlue interior design skills into overdrive in the Officers and SNCOs Bar. There was even a Guards Depot touch with an “Adair Walk” and E II R insignia on the gates to the vehicle park. All was complete in time for the visit by Comd MND SW, Maj Gen Webb-Carter. He became a frequent and most welcome visitor and we were most grateful that he presented our medals at the end of the tour.

competition.

2- 5 A Sqn support 5 Airbourne Bde Leading Parachute Battalion Group ex

LCoH Smrth awarded h/s NATO medal by the Rt Hon N/cho/as Soames MP.

2H0? 0h Battlefield Tour “Faith"

Life in Bosnia was full of surprises. It started off remarkably quietly but as the weather warmed up so did the political climate. Key to the success of our tour

4 Troop A Squadron at Bah/a Luke Airport

was the way in which every soldier pulled his weight and carried out his duties with commitment and professionalism. This was very much a team effort and one of the most remarkable statistics was that in the whole of our tour we didn’t have a single road traffic accident - it may seem like a strange point to raise but it is the biggest killer in Bosnia and over £100M has been written offin RTAs in the last 2 years.

There were numerous events during our tour and these are recounted in more detail in “Live at the Palace” which you will find later on in this journal. This is a flavour of our tour, as recounted in our Diary of Events which

4 Loop in [he held, .

r:

is now held in the archives in the Museum : 20 Februaryl997 ~ 20 July 1997 A Squadron Mention must go to the key players within the Squadron. First of all the SCM : W02 Camp was a sucker for pun— ishment and took on the added responsibility of Administrative Officer. This was no mean feat and he burnt the mid— night oil throughout the tour. Capt RC Taylor, ZIC and Sqn Ops Offr, ran the daily ops taskings from the Wood Factory Ops Room. He had a cunning master plan which allowed for a 10 days ops cycle and a four day rotation through the Troop House near Gradiska. His life

The Squadron Leader presenting Lt Col Bradshaw (CO KRH/ With a punt at the end of the Bosnia tour

4.1.2, a;

Household Cavalry Regiment Household Cavalry Regiment

Back in Windsor the priority was a well carried 4 weeks leave. However, this was not before our Medal Parade on 24 July where relatives, friends and children came down for a relaxing afternoon, a fine lunch and much merriment. It was also time to say farewell, and a warm “thank you", to W02 Camp who is now firmly ensconced at RMAS as a CSM.

SCpl Pringle — Trg W0 at HCMR

CoH Cripps - SCpl at D&M School CoH Stillwell ~ SQMC at BATUS CoH McGuire (RHG/D) — SQMC at NBC Regt, Swindon CoH Miller 7 Troop CoH HCMR

The rest of the year has been quiet and mundane in comparison. The priority has been courses which has left the Squadron stripped of manpower. We made up numbers for Ex BRIGHT STAR and about 25 members of the Squadron deployed to Egypt for a touch

of desert warfare.

Those left at home

LCoH Wood — to British Airways, on leaving the Army LCpl Brown 294 - to ATR Pirbright as a LCoH Instructor LCpls McCauley, Hoggarth to HCMR as LCsoH

stagged on at the gate and were kept on their toes by the new SCM, W02 Barry.

it. ' ‘I

A U

Hoggarth. A son, improwses transportation to.

805F718.

was never dull and it was a rare event if he left the office before midnight. He was also the Squadron Security Officer and carried out a thorough review of our base security plan which proved invaluable on the night of 16 July. Capt JRD Barnard networked his way around Bosnia as the G5 Liaison Officer, keep— ing the locals contented and trying to invigorate life into the NGO community. The Sqn Tiffy, SSgt Pratt (REME), did an outstanding job in keeping the vehicle fleet on the road and also in ensuring that his team got their fair share of sport and adventure training.

SQMC Pringle had his work cut out with the plethora of accounts which he had to manage. Accounts have been the downfall of many units in theatre and thanks to his hard work we managed to avoid any dramas.

VRS Site Inspections, football matches, community projects, adventure training, P Coy training, visit of The Band of the Life Guards and Glamoc ranges were all memories on our tour. However, it was the last 3 weeks which will be engraved on everyone’s mind: capturing the Kozara TV transmitter, securing the Presidential Palace, overwatch on the Domat factory and the grenade attack on

Sadly RAAT commitments continued at their normal frenetic pace and we continually have to juggle vehicles and manpower to support exercises. In late November we were supporting three major exercises (an ARRC CPX in Ger— many, a TALO in Wales and a BBGT at Warminster) and it was therefore a very depleted A Squadron team who sat down to coffee with the Major General

Household Division and the Colonel of the Regiment when they visited on 24th and 26th November respectively.

We have had to say farewell to the fol» lowing NCOs: W02 Camp - CSM at RMAS

A Sat/adron run for Bosnia Char/ty

B Squadron, The Life Guards

Next year A Squadron continues as the JRDF Squadron and will work alongside 5 AB Bde until August 1998. We will then deploy to BATUS for four months as the OPFOR which will hopefully include plenty of Adventure Train— ing. Life in the Army continues at a busy pace but everyone continues to pull his weight and maintain the high stan— dards of the Regiment. It is very much a team effort and, as such, is the saving grace of the Regimental system. Long may it continue and let us hope that the forthcoming Strategic Defence Review

recognises the importance of both armoured reconnaissance and ceremoni» al duties.

hristmas in the Wood Factory in Banja Luka was as merry as local rules allowed. The Xmas draw run by SCM Valentine was viewed as a suitable substitute for Father Christmas with everyone having a present to open. The New Year brought many things, such as a cold weather front, the breakdown of the electrical supply and heating system and a new Squadron leader. Major MC van der Lande made a final tour of his area of responsibility before handing over the area and Squadron to his replacement Major RRD Griffin. The Squadron remained busy with a wide variety of projects aimed at helping the more needy families in our area and the projects like the wood delivery task undertaken by the Troops in November started to pay dividends. l Troop were still hard at work in Orahova. This village was largely populated by refugees and was desperately poor.

Led by Lt C P MacDonald and CoH Poynter 1 Troop worked tirelessly to build the foundations upon which the locals could expand.

Several Micro enterprise initiatives were implemented and took root giving the locals a lasting means of support, a sense of purpose and a true sense of community. Lt C P Mac— Donald has subsequently been awarded the QCVS for his and his Troops outstanding efforts. The locals liked him so much that at one stage they asked him to be their Mayor !

ensure that the school was a safe and healthy environment in which the local children could work and play. Looking at the Kindergarten in February before the Squadron left one could hardly recognise it as the . squalid wreck that we had seen some six months earlier. Anew roofwas in place and the building had been painted inside and out. School supplies , had been found with con- _ siderable help from fami» lies back in Windsor and a playground had been built with bits begged, borrowed and liberated from a large area.

SCpl Flynn was awarded a Joint Chiefs Commendation for his excellent work.

3 Troop were leading on the Farrier pro— ject. In conjunction with Knightsbridge the plan was to get a farrier from HCMR with a mobile forge who could not only treat and shoe the local horses but could also try to bring the local farriers into the twentieth century. This was initial1y met with some resistance by the locals but thanks to the tactful and charming team of Lt A] L Fox-Pitt and CoH Hodder and the skillful services of Farrier L/Cpl Middleton they were soon won

oven 2 Troop led by SCpl Flynn and CoH Howie were working minor miracles at the local Kindergarten. The Troop even sacrificed their precious days off to

4 Troop on loan from the Queen’s Royal Lancers and led by the ever reliable Captain I M Thompson bolstered up the

B San watching the Amer/can fire power demo

”"\

5 Sam, pre Ex Bright Star mspec {Ian

troops and kept busy mostly on the mil~ itary side of operations.

GW Troop’s GS efforts centred around the Seskovci Wicker Factory in the Srbac municipality. Their efforts saw a derelict workspace turn into a profit making wicker retailer employing local people and using local resources. This was a real success story and like other projects left the locals with an ongoing business concern to run as they wished.

Worthy of mention was Captain R] C D Phelps’ organ recital in a church which had an ambient temperature of —lOc. It was well attended by SFOR, local mili— tary and civilians alike and composed by the organist himself ~ it was a resounding success. It should be noted that CoH Bonner and the rest of the troop worked overtime in the freezing condi-

B Sqn form up. Ex Eng/7t Star

the Wood Factory. It was a transition from Peace Support to Peace Enforcement and everyone rose to the challenge.

Once again it was a team effort and everyone played his part in maintaining the peace. It was with great relief that the squadron returned unscathed on 20 July 1997.

Household Cavalry Regiment 10

Household Cavalry Regiment

tions to allow Captain Phelps the time to practice.

Squadron Headquarters had also been busy. CsoH Curson and Dixon worked non-stop, supported by all members of the troop to ensure that communica-

tions were maintained on several differ— ent means 24 hours a day. The troops spent many a cold night in their isolated rebroadcast station on top of the Wrekin mountain surveying the damage caused

by US cruise missiles.

It should be noted at this stage that none

ofthe G5 projects would have been quite so successful without the positively Her— culean efforts of Captain J A M Corse (RHG/D), the G5 Liaison Officer, who used every trick in the book to secure

funding for the various projects.

His

alter ego, D] “]C”, also spent some considerable time entertaining the locals with a regular spot on the local radio,

although what they made of his more obscure African tunes we will never know.

The military side of operations was busy and all of the troops were well used to dealing with the Bosnian Serb Army (VRS) either on barrack inspections, confiscations, general monitoring tasks or occasionally the odd game of football.

The Sqn 21C, Captain S] Rhodes —Stam— pa, was awarded a GOC’s Commenda—

tion - his third in that theatre for his actions during a riot in the centre of Banja Luka. This sort of incident was typical of what the troops were prepared to deal with day to day at short notice.

There were many other high points during the tour, too many to mention here.

Of note was the Household Division Dinner Night with Major General E] Webb-Carter and the Commanding Officer as the guests of honour. It was a resounding success and was attended by nearly every member of the Division in Theatre.

It also gave the Squadron Leader the opportunity to practice his

new language skills in the local dialect and to test Drill Sergeant Evans (WG) on how many Guardsmen you can get on a table. Particular thanks must go to the pipers who appeared out of the woodwork and kept the party going to the small hours.

The arrival of the A Squadron advance party was the indicator that this particu— lar tour was drawing to a close and the Squadron were all back by the end of February. The medal parade was taken by the Rt Hon Nicholas Soames MP

12

Household Cavalry Regiment

who then joined the Squadron and their families for lunch in the Gym.

C Squadron, The Blues and Royals

Marclt saw the Squadron spread to the four winds for some well deserved leave, upon our return it was back to business as usual with a new SCM. , W02 Valen— tine, handing over to W02 Tate. Lieu— tenant C P MacDonald and Tpr Close both attended and passed the Commando Course which was tremendous news.

The Squadron deployed on numerous Exercises with 3 UK Div, 3 Cdo Bde and various other groupings. Old skills were practised, such as boat drills with the Commandos, and unusual roles rehearsed, such as the defence ofa repli— cated Soviet trench position on Salis— bury Plain.

This tested both the Squadron and CoH Hodder’s asbestos hands. As usual the Squadron took the attacking forces by surprise by firstly having twice the fire power of an Infantry Battalion (they did not know that you can ground mount a GPMG) and secondly getting COH Curson and SHQ to erect a dummy mast in the killing zone!

The major feature of the end of the year was the Regimental deployment to Egypt. This placed the Squadron in a challenging environment with the abili~ ty to bypass the usual training restric— tion; that of lack of space to really get some work done. Everyone enjoyed the challenging range package, battlefield tour and the subsequent Exercise. It was a great pleasure to be able to work so closely with the Egyptian Army and observe the differences in each other’s doctrine and training, of which there were a great many!

Throughout the year the Squadron has had many visitors in many different

anuary saw the Squadron’s return from Bosnia after a highly successful tour in Glamoc. The tour did not end without incident however, as a heavy snowfall on the day of departure caused one of our mini buses to leave the road and park upside down with its cargo of unhappy soldiers.

The REME'S favourite OS “72" LCoH SW/nbt/rne. Tprs Hanson and Gray.

places.

Lieutenant General Sir Hew Pike in Bosnia, The Rt Hon Nicholas Soames to present medals in March, The Colonel in Chief in May, The Major General in Egypt and the Colonel ofthe Life Guards with his new wife in December.

The end of another busy year is now looming and the Squadron is looking forward to a challenging time next year in Canada. We have said farewell to some wonderful characters: Major M C van der Lande to the MOD, Captain R] C D Phelps to HCMR, Lieutenant C P MacDonald to be the future RSO, W02 (SCM) Valentine to be the RCMI at the Signals School. The Squadron also welcomed 2Lt’s Peas— good, Rees - Davies, Blount and Han— bury - Bateman

LCpI Saunders. Tpr Walker and LCoH Vernon as enemy for 7 Mecn Brigade.

Some of the Squadron were able to get away on leave after the medal parade, whilst the others received the vehicles on their return. At this point we bade farewell to the Squadron Second in Command, Capt. J lugs-Chambers, who departed to HCMR to be replaced by Capt.AD Dick who came from HCTW. In February we took over our JRDF commitment, and immediately embarked on a series of TALO exercises in order to re-hone our skills. The Squadron also provided vehicles and manpower for Exercise Gophers Stress on Salisbury Plain.

In March we sent a troop to work with l PWRR on SAb Bde’s TESEX on Salisbury plain. During this exercise trouble flared in Albania and the troop as well as l PWRR, found themselves sitting at RAF Lyneham waiting to be deployed.

This never happened, although every— one involved gained good training value. Meanwhile various members of the Squadron were taking part in the 3 (UK) Div CPX in various locations in southern England.

At the end of the month the Squadron departed on some well—earned leave.

However, almost immediately the JRDF troop was called back in response to the troubles in Zaire.

Once again they found themselves sitting on the runway at RAF Lyneham, waiting for the green light. In the end they did not go, but everyone gained good value from the experience as well as a number of free inoculations!

May, with the whole Squadron involved in one way or the other.

As the JRDF duty Squadron, we put on a display showing the air portability of CVR(T). Unfortu-

nately our plan to use a crane to simulate a CH47 lifting a Scimitar was thwarted at an early stage!

The regimental open day was a great success with the Squadron providing a mobile display of all vehicles in the CVR(T) range.

June was a relatively quiet month, which enabled us to carry out our ATD training. We also continued our TALO training program, giving some of the Squadron’s newer members a chance to fly in a C130 for the first time.

The SCM, SQMC and CoH Spandley were part of the guard of honour at the wedding of Capt. J Eyre. An enjoyable time was had by all, helped by the fact that the local scrumpy producer had donated a large amount of his produce to the guests!

July started well with a visit to the Fuller’s Brewery in West London. The group was extremely well looked after and was allowed copious amounts of beer as well as some excellent food. For the remainder of the month we took part

in Ex PEGASUS STRIKE, the 5 Ab Bde FTX in Stranraer. The greater part of the exercise was spent at South Cerney as the brigade went through the activa-

A C Squad/on striker be/ng Hfreo by a CH47 on TESEX

tion stage of the ‘operation’. The exer— cise itself nearly ended in disaster when

one of the C1305 carrying the majority of the Squadron decided that it had had enough, just as we were in the process of taking off. However, two hours later, and after some remedial engineering work, we departed safely. Unfortunately, once we had deployed we were severely restricted by the amount of move— ment that we were actually able to do, as The Queen with Major McCullough and C Squadron

In April the Squadron had its first chance in nearly a year to exercise as a complete unit, when we moved onto Sal— isbury Plain for the TESEX. The deep battle scenario was new to almost every» one in the Squadron, and we all agreed that it was a steep learning curve, especially after Bosnia.

The Queen’s Visit was the main event in

Household Cavalry Regiment

remaining blank days. The team ‘j was amused to discover some rather bedraggled and aged look— ing peace protesters who were Still living on the now non-existent perimeter fence line.

‘ . ". ~ i

Some of the more senior members of the Squadron attended the battlefield tour to France. It was a most interesting and productive week, with much fun had by all. The presence of the old comrades was an added bonus, and it will be a long time before we forget some of their stories.

1" Much of the month was spent

Tor W'lf/EU‘IS. C San Ex Bright Stat

most of the area was private land. However, the exercise did enable us to prac— tice a deployment, and all the necessary activation drills, and from that at least we gained a great deal of knowledge.

The SCM left the exercise early in order to receive his GOC’s Recommendation for his excellent work in Bosnia.

August bought with it the summer leave period, which gave the Squadron the chance to disappear prior to the intense preparations that were to follow, before deployment to Egypt.

However, during the run up to our over— seas exercise we were able to get out and have a change of scene on a couple of occasions.

A Squadron paint-balling trip to Greenham Common was put into action after we identified one of the few

Tpr Parr and Tor Smith. C San, Ex Bright Star

' ' attending a series of lectures and briefs prior to our departure to Egypt. One which was particu— l larly unpleasant and memorable was the health brief which did much to explain what would happen should we not fill our R and R with sufficiently construc— tive activities!

Exercise Bright Star was the main focus for 1997. The first phase was by far the most valuable from a Squadron point of view as it provided us with the opportu— nity to cover Troop level training. This provided crucial training time for the newly formed troops, giving us all the opportunity to bond as units and sort out the grass roots operating procedures which create an effective and smoothly running fighting machine. For the trig» ger happy, the live firing provided enor— mous quantities of ammunition, which was mostly fired on the exhilarating bat» tle runs across the desert. It was a fascinating experience, especially for those members of the Squadron who had not been in the desert before. To have so much space to exercise over was a great

luxury, and a good break for the troops to get away from our own training grounds, which tend to become a little repetitive and predictable.

Nearly all the Squadron took up the offer of one of the number of R and R packages available. Some saw the pyra— mids, others went diving, but all had an

extremely interesting time.

After our return to England, we moved straight into preparation for the Remembrance Day parade. After the event, the Squadron enjoyed a week’s leave following our month in Egypt.

Since the return of our vehicles, the Squadron has been on a busy mainte— nance programme to bring the vehicles back up to scratch after the rigours of the desert.

The Christmas season is as busy as ever, with an endless stream of functions and events.

The Freedom of Windsor Parade is the focus at present, but we all look forward to 1998. With BATUS ahead, it should be an eventful year.

Over the year the Squadron has bade a sad farewell to a number ofits members.

These include:— Maj G M D McCul— lough to the Spanish Staff College, Capt J E A Ings-Chambers, Capt C W G Rodway and Capt H F Whitbread to HCMR, CoH Spandley to HCMR and CoH Birch to the QM’s Dept.

We welcome Maj T E Thornycroft from CATC, Capt A D Dick from HCTW and Ct P Stucley, D Scott and R Lewis from their Troop Leaders Courses.

D Squadron, The Blues and Royals he beginning of the year saw the Squadron preparing for Winter Deployment to Norway with 3 Cdo Bde, this being the second time a Household Cavalry Squadron was attached to the Bde, B Squadron being there last year.

The training started at Asegarden, where for three weeks the Squadron was put through its paces by the Marine Instructors from HQ and Sigs Coy, 3 Cdo Bde. There were many fairly competent skiers in the Squadron, but even these had some trouble adapting to the ‘Pussers Planks’ used by the Marines, the new style of skiing causing mental stress to some more than others (CoH Peat being to skiing what Genghis Khan was to community relations). A final fond farewell was bade to the Marines at Asegarden, the Squadron Leader however made the fatal mistake of allowing Lt P A Bedford to make the final speech.

Twenty minutes and 100 sleeping people later, there was much relief as he finally took his seat.

From Asegarden the Squadron moved to much more pleasant surroundings, even at —30 0C, to Malselv— fossen some 300 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Here the Squadron was left to its own devices and allowed to get on with its own special-to-arm-training.

This was a new experience for most as the temperatures were very erratic.

Training consisted ofa range period followed by a Squadron level exercise the culmination being a final exercise acting as enemy on a Bde level exercise. This produced many new experiences. LCpl

D Squ Op Badge/ Pm/avor

Toon -now LCoH— locked the 2 IC in the back of a Sultan (with the help of an NBC lock and a generous dose of ice), and Lt C] Trietline (LG) and CoH Snell saw off many incursions by the SBS on their stretch of defended coastline.

From Norway back to Windsor and the Squadron was reduced to wearing Tshirts for a month before re~acclimatizing. It was here that changes had to be made to the Squadron ORBAT for pre Bosnia training. Ifthat was not enough, a regimental TESEX on Salisbury Plain reared its head in April. Although this was a hectic period, the Squadron

received good value training as a unit in as far as 2 Bosnia ORBAT permitted, and the two new Troop Leaders (Cts M C Antelme and L A J Brennan), got their ‘blooding’ with the Squadron. The final change for Bosnia saw the sad parting ofC J Trietline (LG) and CoH Snell from their partnership in 3 Troop, bringing a trembling of the lower lip to Lt Trietline, and it took him some time to get over this most monstrous decision.

Pre-Bosnia training took place in May /' June at Westdown Camp on Salisbury Plain (again!)

A very realistic and D Son Tug of War team With opposmon Open Day Laktasr

C! Scott. C San. Ex Bright Slat

Household Cavalry Regiment 14

Household Cavalry Regiment

Headquarters Squadron t has been, unsurprisingly, a busy year for Headquarters Squadron.

Throughout the year members of the Squadron were attached to the various LODESTAR deployments or were providing coverage and rear party support from Windsor. In the meantime the day to day running of the Regiment did not stop. The squadron supported everything from build up training for TESEXs, to the all consuming BRIGHT

STAR.

.9 «I

J

Half Marathon KRH

exciting package was provided by the UNTAT group, culminating in a 2 day exercise at Copehill Down which brought the best out of everyone in anticipation of the future deployment in

July.

The Squadron took over from A Squadron at the Wood Factory in Banja

Luka at what was a critical time in the development of the internal political power struggle between Mme Plavsic (the President) and Radovan Karadzic (her predecessor). Ultimately this struggle was to last the whole tour, but from the position of new arrival it seemed a

daunting task indeed.

Not only were

there factional problems to contend with, but two sets ofelections as well. In this onerous task the Squadron had the help of Lt W P F Bye (AGC) from the Admin Office in Windsor, and it was his

task to run the Squadron’s planning for the elections in September, after which he jetted off immediately to join the rest

of the Regiment in Egypt. Capt A J Mayhew was the G5 officer in charge of all things to do with local aid / Hearts

and Minds.

Unfortunately, we were required to move out of the Wood Factory into the Metal Factory on the other side of Banja Luka for security reasons due to the

increased tensions. This was a supreme effort on the part of SQMS Harris and

both he and his department deserve a great deal of praise for the way they packed the Squadron off so quickly and efficiently. On arrival at the Metal Factory, and after a month in tents, the

«3,.

m -.

G/amoc Ranges

D Sqn CO's wsm Pin/aver

Squadron was finally allowed to settle down (after nearly 2 months in theatre I), just in time to deal with the elections.

These went very well and with few problems and certainly did not overshadow the deployment as many had expected.

Numerous events happened during both the September and November elections.

Those which no doubt will stick in the minds of members of D Squadron are

normal, the Squadron had experienced nearly every aspect of a Peacekeeping / Stabilisation role and were happy to return to Windsor having spent only 19 weeks in the UK this year.

the months ‘On Stag’ outside the Domet

G V Woyka is away to Warminster, Lt C J Trietline (LG) is off to HCMR, SCM

The year began with elements of the Squadron supporting A Squadron’s pre~ Bosnia training on Salisbury Plain and Sennybridge. March saw the build up to the TESEXs and troop training on Sal» isbury Plain (again) with the squadron taking over Westdown Camp. Simultaneously members of the squadron were already preparing to deploy with D

Squadron to Bosnia. During the time in Westdown Camp, the Quartermaster, Major A] Mead LG, moved on to the

At the time of writing the Squadron is in the process of returning toWindsor and is to bid a sad farewell to many faithful folk. The Squadron Leader, Maj

BOWMAN trials and the QM(T), Capt MA Harding RHG/D, moved across to “boots and socks”. Capt NP Sackett

HM The Queen with Ma/ MR Brown meets W02 (TO) Nicholson and other Squadron members.

er similar strands of elements that were deploying directly from Cyprus. Unfortunately, the Squadron Leader, Major MR Brown RHG/D was taken very ill in the middle of the summer and was unable to see at first hand all his hard work come to fruition.

loan stores but still found time for a spot of drill, firstly with the Remembrance Parade and then with the Freedom of Windsor Parade. We also welcome back D Squadron which means that in terms of equipment the Regiment is complete for the first time in four years.

RHG/D returned from Pirbright to take Factory, the many excursions into DowntOWn Banja Luka guarding the Presidential Palace from the Police and then the Police from themselves, the “Battle of Fisherman’s Bridge”, when the Squadron was the final block in the defence of Banja Luka from a mob of over 3, 000 angry pro Karadzic supporters, and many, many more. By the end of the tour, which slightly shorter than

Norris is to become the new RQMC and SQMC Harris is leaving for ATR Pirbright. We wish them all the best for the

future.

over in Tech.

No sooner were we back from Wiltshire than we were into Cavalry Sunday and HM The Queen’s visit, for which Headquarters Squadron had the lead. The visit is covered elsewhere but the work put in by the Squadron Leader and the Squadron Corporal Major was reflected in the success of the whole day. Need— less to say the sun even shone when it was supposed to.

2 To D Son. G/arnoc Ranges

A few weeks later was the Regimental open day, again with much organising behind the scenes by the Squadron Leader. With this out of the way, the Regiment and Squadron turned their sights to Ex BRIGHT STAR and Egypt.

The Squadron Leader, as Unit Emplane— inent Officer, ably assisted by

Captain JR Holbrook LG was thrown into the fray as UEO, and the Squadron oversaw the painting and loading of all the stores and equipment and the endless typing and retyping of manifests.

The exercise, although enormously hard work, has given a remarkable depth of experience to the squadron. Captain

MA Harding RHG/D took over as acting Squadron Leader and ran “Camp White-Spunner” whilst in Egypt. On return the squadron sorted out all the

We say goodbye to WOZ Atkinson RHG/D who is going up to Knightsbridge, and welcome Major CA Lockhart RHG/D who took over from Major Brown and promptly disappeared to get married. We wish the new Major and Mrs Lockhart well. We wish Major Brown a speedy recovery. We finally look forward to 1998 where as OPFOR, MMS BG and JRDF we will try and split ourselves three ways rather than the customary two, and still try and give change for a pound.

RHQ being set up in Egypt Ex Bright Stat

WOZ(SCM) Atkinson RHG/D and LCpl Wymant, did sterling work organising the staff table. This involved troops moving by air trooping in Hercules, VClO and Tristar, moving freight by sea, both on civilian and military shipping; moving vehicles and stores by aircraft, Royal Fleet Auxiliary shipping and Army shipping (Yes, the Army actually owns some ships); and bringing togeth-

Household Cavalry Regiment 16

Household Cavalry Regiment

Quartermaster’s Department

Ration Storeman - LCoH Winter LG replaced by LCoI—I Callow RI-IG/D. Ammunition Storeman - LCoH Martin LG replaced by LCpl Stickland RHG/D.

I will come as no surprise to anyone to hear that this year has been one ofthe busiest for this department. To cata— logue all the operations, exercises and events supported by this department would take far too long, test your patience and probably force you to turn the page. Just spare a few moments of your time to cast your eye over the remainder of this article and we will endeavour to prove what an exciting, fulfilling and, dare I say it, meaningful existence we have working in such a highly charged department.

It all began in April with TESEX on Sal— isbury Plain, followed by the Commander«in—Chief’s visit to the Regiment, fol~ lowed closely by the Regimental Open Day. All these were liberally interspersed by a myriad of other exercises and sub unit operations. Oh, by the way, let’s not forget the normal sometimes mundane daily tasks which are so often taken for granted but play such a significant part in the upkeep of the Regiment and the barracks. The major exercise of the year was

Ex BRIGHT STAR, the HCR Battle Group in a multi-national exercise in the Egyptian desert - by far the most chal— lenging task to befall this department for some time.

It meant having to split the department in half, the unlucky half who are always the unsung heroes, staying to mind the store. The remainder deployed to set up and administer a tented camp for

Most have moved on to other military jobs except for LCsoH Edwards and Winter, who have left to try their luck in civilian life. We wish them all well and extend our gratitude for all their hard work. Good luck to the new group, your work is already mapped out.

The latrines. . communal and good for holding conferences and answering the call of nature, {Ki/ling Mo birds With one stone)

Quartermaster Technical’s Department The Chefs at work. Ex Bright Star 97,

approximately 750 personnel in the desert. With the help of the Engineer Recce Troop, who built the showers, ablutions and latrines, we set about erecting everything except the accom— modation tents, which were supplied by the Egyptian Army. This promised to be an extremely hectic exercise.

This year has seen a full turnover ofpersonnel in the department. They are as follows:

QM - Maj A] Mead LG replaced by Capt M Harding RHG/D.

RQMC — WOZ Maher RHG/D replaced by WOZ Norris RHG/D.

There were two major stumbling blocks; Nature and the Egyptian culture, nature in the form ofa sandstorm, which wrecked half the camp the day before the advance party arrived, and the heat and flies, which constantly threatened the health and hygiene aspects of the camp. If inexperienced

Accm SNCO » SCpl Cross LG replaced by CoH Birch RHG/D. Local Works Liaison SNCO - CoH Vaughan LG replaced by CoH Cox RHG/D Clothing Storeman — LCoH Edwards LG replaced by LCoH Hooper RHG/D.

with dealing with Egyptians, as most of The Activation Part/ and live civilians raising Ihe Regimental Flag. Ex Bright Star 97

us were, then you were on track for a steep learning curve.

Their culture does not allow them to say NO and the expression ‘Inshallah’ (God Willing) means always ask for what you require at least three days in advance and maybe then you will receive it, if indeed it is what you asked for! All of these tried one’s patience to the limit, but would you have missed an opportu— nity to see the Pyramids, dive at Sharm-al»Sheik, play rugby in Cairo or sail down the Nile? Never!

As I write this we are continuing our preparation for Annual Firing in Castle» martin.

This will be closely followed by the activation party deploying to BATUS to prepare for OPFOR.

18

Household Cavalry Regiment

The Sandstorm The OM and RQMC in despair as the camp is ripped apart, Ex BRlGl—lT STAR 97.

nce again the year has been diverse.

We have had the usual commitments to Bosnia with A and D Sqn deploying on OP LODESTAR. While in England the year began with TESEX. The department was split between Windsor and Salisbury Plain. The Tech Storemen deployed to the Plain to act as Battle Group Tech. This included meeting the demands of the KOSBR as the Infantry Battalion. SCpl Plater now knows Warrior part numbers off by heart. (He is becoming a real anorak.)

After all the action of TESEX, we set— tled into the peace and tranquillity (Plll), of the day to day running ofTech.

Our complete Landrover fleet was changed over. The old 110’s (which can now be seen being driven around by London TA Regiment) were replaced by Truck Utility Medium (TUM), or, as they are known, “ Wolf”. These beasts are 2.5 litre turbo diesel all singing and dancing Landrovers, (people now smile when they are told to carry out MT details). As you can imagine many a tear was shed when the old ones left.

July saw the change over of the Bosnian Squadron, D Sqn replacing A Sqn. These handovers are only made easy by the fact that it is only the gun vehicles that are taken from the Regiment. Tpr Coupland RHG/D returned with A Sqn and LCoH Beulah RHG/D went as the QM(T) representative with D Sqn. After some very well earned Summer leave, the main effort was Ex BRIGHT STAR - a multi—national Task Force exercise in Egypt. The planning had

been going on all year, but at the eleventh hour, as always, things changed. The shipping space had been cut and we were only permitted to take one binner and two shipping containers.

In these three we had to take all the spares for two Sqns and RHQ Troop plus associated B Vehicles. “Not a problem” I hear you say. Indeed it was not. We were then told that there would be no second line support. (However, we did manage to get a few items flown out).

The team that deployed, SCpl Plater RHG/D, LCpl Jones LG, LCpl Marsh RHG/D assisted by the QM(T) did an outstanding job.

They managed to deploy for some fourteen days with sufficient spares to keep the vehicles supplied. The lessons learnt were invaluable, especially if we are to deploy on an Out of Area Operation.

If 1996 was, in Tech, the year ofthe Helicopter Underslung Load Equipment (HUSLE), then 1997 will be the year of Air Helicopter Dispatched Replens. We have now become well versed in marker panels, firefly marker lights and all things aeronautical. With the HUSLE and Air dispatched equipment we now almost need to have a dedicated aerial delivery storeman. The Tech storeman of today certainly has a varied and interesting job spec.

without them to prepare the ground for our return, we would have floundered.

We have had many changes in the department since the last journal. Capt M A Harding RHG/D now has to take a longer walk to work, in fact to the QM Dept. His place as QM(T) has been taken by Capt N P Sackett RHG/D. The main changes have been on promotion.

Congratulations go to CoH Plater RHG/D on promotion to SCpl, LCpl Jones LG to LCoH and to Tpts Marsh RHG/D and Spares RHG/D to LCpl. We have said farewell to LCoH Mow— bray RHG/D and Tpr Coupland RHG/D to civilian life, and special congratulation goes to LCpl Spares and his wife Debbie on the birth oftheir son Samuel.

“OI/res Casts Ex Bright Star

It has proved to be a varied year with experiences from past years much used and more experiences gained.

The avenues that were explored last year have in some cases become super highways. As with all years, those that did not deploy on operations or exercise kept the flag flying in Windsor, and

Household Cavalry Regiment

The Light Aid Detatchment As for the rest of the Regiment, the year has been an extremely busy one within the LAD. Until February 97 there were two Fitter Sections in Bosnia, one supporting the JRDF Squadron, another running the usual gauntlet of 5 Brigade and 3 Brigade exercises, and of course the trusty Headquarters Squadron Fitter Section keeping things together whilst everyone else was away on the ‘Gucci’ deployments. Too many people have come and gone in the last year to list, but suffice it to say that turnover within the LAD has been close

A Son Fitter Section, Ban/a Luka

to fifty percent since the last Household Cavalry Journal went to print. The

years service. Who could forget that double act? SSgt Damms is now a policeman in the West Midlands (keep your speed down) and SSgt Stead was last heard of (repeatedly) practising his 1000 yard ‘death stare’ in the Hampshire area. Both will be missed. Capt P Wise, the EME, left after 18 months with the

delightful CVR(T) fleet has kept us all challenged on a regular basis, and I have found myself increasingly likening our

task to that of keeping one hundred and twenty classic cars on the road when the manufacturer and vintage car dealers are really no longer interested in that model

because it is so old. But still it soldiers on, and maybe one day the elusive TRACER will appear in Windsor...

One year ago those fitter sections that were not in Bosnia were braving the

A

.3

tions take place for a possible move to Zaire. Life is never dull.

April saw C and D Squadrons on Salis— bury Plain for TESEX, with the first proper attempts being made to play the new ‘Deep Battle’ concept for Armoured Recce. This went relatively well, particularly for C Squadron Fitter Section after Sgt Pearson found out that the A303 actually took him lSOkm behind enemy lines with complete impunity to enemy fire. This fact may prove useful information for any special forces who may read this article. His book - “The

hold Cavalry Squadron in Bosnia for a while. Following summer leave was the

build-up to Ex BRIGHT STAR. Much activity took place in the scramble to

the Regiment. It was patently clear to all

ary, to be replaced by A Squadron as the

that she was primarily interested in seeing the famed GERV (now sporting a ‘by Royal Appointment’ cipher ) presented to her by the even more infamous SSgt

Buck.

the call of duty.

rain like it - it seemed to have been trained to penetrate Gortex and to ‘top attack’ armoured vehicles. Perhaps a secret training programme had been

implemented by the Bundeswehr just before their departure. At that time B and C Squadrons were in sunny Bosnia and probably enjoying better weather

than the rest of us. Both had good tours and the fitter sections, many on their

one that was shot away”, will be available soon from all good bookstores.

second Bosnian tour, had to work hard

for their pay. C Squadron returned in

sole Armoured Recce

Squadron

in

Bosnia. This event saw a fond farewell being said to Glamoc, and the sentry box being installed in Banja Luka — at least some standards were being maintained!

May saw the visit of HM The Queen to

Her Majesty was obviously

delighted and enlightened by the experience, but was curious as to why the cutting edge of military technology was

The end of 1996 saw an exciting scramble to prepare for a JRDF deployment to

ground-mounted. The lack of suitable

Albania - with the supposed 72 hours

steps was not mentioned...

notice to move ending up as 4 hours to prepare a squadron to move to Lyne— ham. A sense of deja vu also occurred in

early 1997 when a similar period of ‘increased LAD activity’ saw prepara-

Sawyers, arrived in early December just in time to take part in the Freedom of Windsor parade and to experience Brick Hanging.

v

January 1997 and B Squadron in Febru—

martin during the annual Regimental Firing period. Never have I witnessed

The new EME, Capt H Gordon-

A busy year once again, during which the LAD continued to do what it does best - drill with a little vehicle maintenance and repair thrown in! Apparently HM The Queen is keen to see the GERV again soon.

HM The Queen with Captain PA Wise and membe/s of the LAD,

prepare the vehicles for shipping, and the availability figures would have made any EME proud — many thanks to all crews and fitter sections for the work involved. The exercise went remarkably well, considering the facilities available, although LSgt Dean managed to break more than his fair share of SAMSONS before disappearing to his new posting.

The EME and the ASM achieved infamy as The Black Widows, with their remarkable SAS-style desert motorcycling skills and daring resupply raids behind enemy lines. R&R went well, and Cfn Thorndyke even managed not to fall in love whilst in the land of the Pharaohs - surely a first? Sgt Cook performed admirably on the boat party, both going to and returning from Egypt — worthy ofa medal for drinking beyond

wind and horizontal rain of Castle-

LAD to take up a post as an instructor at Sandhurst and ASM Harvey departs shortly for a penal posting in Belize.

Summer leave was preceded by the changeover between A Squadron and D Squadron in Banja Luka, with D Squadron deploying as the last House-

The run-up to Christmas saw the Fitter Sections busy with drill, PRES, drill, post-Bright Star maintenance, drill, ATDs and a little bit of drill ~ whoever said the REME cannot do drill?

A few special farewells took place during the year - in particular SSgt Damms and SSgt Stead both of whom left after 22

WOs’ and NCOs’ Mess As seems to be the norm nowadays this has been another very busy year for the Regiment, and this has been

reflected in the WOs’ & NCOs’ Mess.

To mention all the events that happened in the Mess this year would need more than the 450 words allotted to this article, so perhaps we can pick out and men— tion just some of the more colourful ones. On the 5th April, we hosted the Mounted Regiment to a Cabaret night here in Windsor. This was a great success and it was nice to see so many faces back here in Windsor again.

May was probably the busiest month of the year, starting with The Blues and Royals Association Dinner.

Held in Windsor for the first time in a number

of years, there were over 350 guests seat-

cers and their wives before Her Majesty left the Mess. This was an occasion which we will treasure for ever. Finally, in May we dined out W02 (RQMC(T)) Lewis LG, W02 Evans LG and CoH Pankhurst LG, We wish them well in civilian life.

June was not quite so hectic, but still busy. Firstly it was The Life Guards Association Dinner, 21 mirror image of

The Blues and Royals Dinner, and just as spectacular. This was followed the next day by the Regiment’s Open Day and in the Mess we had a lunch for Mess members and their families which everyone thoroughly enjoyed.

Throughout the year the Mess strengthened its ties with the Sgts’ Mess of the Scots Guards with a number of Warrant Officers lunches both in our Mess and

ed in the Gymnasium, and with the new liner up it made for a spectacular venue.

Two days later, and with many cleaning hours put in, we were honoured to have HM the Queen visit the Mess. Her Majesty managed to speak to everyone in the Mess on the day which made it really special for all those in attendance.

During a break in the weather we managed a photo call with the Warrant Offi—

Household Cavalry Regiment 20

Household Cavalry Regiment

got together both Officers Messcs ofthe Household Cavalry and both the W0s’

& NCOs’ Messes with both The Life Guards and The Blues and Royals Bands, for an outstanding and colourful evening here in Windsor.

Sadly in November we said farewell to SCpl Clavering to civilian life and again we wish him well. Remembrance Sunday Lunch seems to grow every year, and with over 250 Mess members, their families and Old Comrades sitting down, we had a very good afternoon.

Also in November, we hosted the ex members of 2 HCR to lunch this year instead of dinner. Initial concerns about how many would turn up were soon put

to rest as we sat down to a marvellous lunch with a full house. Such a good time was had by all, that it looks like being in the diary for some years to come.

The highlight of December was the whole Regiment being in Windsor for the first time in 18 months, which made all our Christmas functions that bit more special. The Christmas Draw was a roaring success, even though, with 600 attending, it was a bit of a squeeze.

Then it was on to Brick Hanging. The Brick this year was hung by Mr Maurice Young and it was great to see so many old faces again this year. Looking ahead to next year we have the Burns Night supper on the 17th January and the New Years Dinner on the 20th January.

CoH Smith at the Open Day

The Band of The Life Guards he Band of the Life Guards’ hectic year began in early January with a number of Windsor Castle guard mounts. Sadly this was shortly followed by the band being asked to play for the funeral ofex—RCM ‘Bunker’ Lloyd at the garrison church in Windsor.

After inflicting a heavy footballing defeat upon the Regimental Admin Office the band took a well earned weeks leave. Some ofthe younger band members kept up the Household Cavalry tradition of‘Work hard, Play hard’ by tak— ing a holiday in Tenerife. Needless to say both sun and sand were rarely seen!

Senior Mess Members theirs. Sadly in the New Year the Scots Guards leave for NI but hopefully our paths will cross again.

One of the highlights of the year was on the 22nd of October, when we dined out the then Commander Household Caval— ry, Colonel P B Rogers. For the first time since any of us can remember we

W01 (RCM) W01 (BM) W01 (ASM)

Lindsay LG Cooper LG Harvey REME

W01 W02 (RQMC)

O’Donnel AGC(SPS) Maher RHG/D

W02 (RQMC(T)) Nicholson LG W02 (SCM) Barry LG

W02 (SCM) W02 (SCM)

Tate LG Fisher RHG/D

woz (SCM) woz (BCM) woz (RSWO) woz (RGWO) woz (ABCM) woz (RCWO) woz (AQMS) W02 (SQMS)

Norris RHG/D, Graves LG Carney RHG/D

Ford RHG/D

February was a relatively quiet month for the band. We travelled down to the Army Training Regiment at Pirbright to play for a passing out parade, and the orchestra was in action at the Dorchester Hotel in Park Lane, playing for the annual War and Peace Ball.

Young LG Humphreys RLC Griffiths REME Hyland AGC(SPS)

March began with yet more Windsor Castle Guards and more passing out parades at both Pirbright and Catterick.

Soon afterwards everyone got stuck into

their state kit in preparation for the Commanding Officer’s Inspection.

A few days after being inspected in goldcoats the band slipped into their Combat 95 and flew offon a whistle stop [our of Bosnia. After settling into the accommodation at the Wood Factory, the Band began four days of non—stop marching displays and concerts includ— ing such wonderful venues as Srbac, Celinac, Banski Davor, the stadium at Gradiska (bus depot included!!!) and finally two concerts in Jajce.

After a somewhat hairy flight back to the UK, the band took a few days off to recover then started straight back into the rehearsal routine in preparation for recording our new CD ‘Royal Windsor’, A few days after ‘cutting the new disc’ the band headed off to Scunthorpe on a schools tour that was very well received.

The remainder of April was spent preparing for the various rehearsals leading up to the Major General’s Inspection.

Unfortunately this was also the time

when we said goodbye to our Director of Music Major C J Reeves. His enthusi— asm and musical expertise will be sadly missed and the band would like to wish both him and his wife Margaret the very best in his new appointment at the Adjutant General’s Corps Band.

The band would like to welcome Major Malcolm Torrent from the Adjutant General’s Corps who is taking over at the helm and we look forward to having many eventful mounted bands under his baton!

May was a very busy month which included Cavalry Sunday, more mounted band rehearsals for Beating Retreat and the highlight of the year for the

regiment at Windsor, the visit of Her Majesty The Queen to Combermere Barracks.

In June as well as taking part in the usual Household Division Beating Retreat and Queens Birthday Parade the band headed off to the Lincolnshire County Show to beat a dismounted

The Band at Ban/a Lt/Ka Castle, 25 Marc/7 7997

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The run in to leave in August was another busy few weeks * for the band. After complet— ing some more public duties it was time for another trip away with the musical ride.

November saw the band, mounted for the last time this year, taking part in The

Lord Mayor’s Show. This was also the first time the Director of Music had rid~ den at the front of the band for a cere~ monial occasion.

This time it was to the Sunderland Air Show where «t Musician Carter was in his element brushing up on his aircraft recognition at every opportunity! . Exactly one week before sum? mer leave the band made the

‘, annual pilgrimage to the East‘ bourne bandstand. After fin-

The Household Cavalry Recruiting Team

The band has enjoyed a successful sport~ ing year with resounding football victo~ ries over The Blues and Royals Band, The Royal Military School of Music, The Adjutant General’s Corps Band and both The Coldstream and Welsh Guard Bands. The cricket team also had some success against such teams as The Band of The Grenadier Guards and the East—

In response to the decline in numbers joining the Household Cavalry it was decided to form a Recruiting Team early in the year. The Team consisted of two Corporals of Horse (Harris and Hastings RHG/D) and one Officer (Captain D Pickard LG).

The integration of the Household Caval— ry Mobile Display Team (MDT) with the Royal Armoured Corps came to an

bourne police CID no less! L/Cpl untimely halt in March, leaving the

‘ ishing late on the Friday evening, we hot-footed it up to . ! the Birmingham Metropole Hotel for yet another marching display, then raced back down the M40 to play at the

Guards Chapel on Sunday morning and to give a concert on the Castle Hill in Windsor The Band of The Ute Guards atJa/ce Bozmaflerzegoma, Maren 1997

retreat and also to provide musical support for the musical ride. On returning

it was straight back into the marching band routine with displays being well received at the Guards Polo Club, Chelmsford and the Officers Mess. All this was fitted in around the now frequent guard mounts at Windsor Castle.

During July the band played the usual summer venues of Guards Polo Club, Castle Hill, two garden parties at Buck— ingham Palace and also a trip to Edinburgh to play for an Investiture at the

castle.

Musn D'Arcy and COH Cook.

during a very hot afternoon.

Returning from leave fully refreshed the band ended September by playing hosts to the Brinkworth Youth band for a day, and also being entertained by the youth

bands very own skipping display team!

October saw the the band playing for a passing out parade at the Hendon Police College, then, for the first time, towards the end of the month we travelled to North Wales to perform two concerts in Llandudno and Wrexham for the Royal British Legion. This was also the moment when Rhyl was introduced to the vocal ‘karaoke’ talents of Major Torrent.

Wheeler was again part of the Household Cavalry Golf team that retained the

Colonel in Chief’s Cup and he also took part in the Army Golf Championship at Little Ashton near Birmingham.

Regretfully we had to say goodbye to CoH Pankhurst and Musician Sturgeon.

The band would like to wish them every

success in civilian life. We also welcome to our ranks Musicians Eccles, Hughes and, from The Hussars Band in Ger— many, Musician Barker.

We are also very proud to be sending two members of the band back to the Royal Military School of Music to commence training as Student Bandmasters. We

wish CoH Allen and L/CoH Willman the very best of luck and we perhaps

might see them back at the Household Cavalry one day as either Bandmasters or Directors of Music!!

newly formed Recruiting Team to take on as many of the MDT tasks as possible. The added tasks proved to be useful as it gave the team the opportunity to travel countrywide gaining a valuable insight into the ever changing world of recruiting. Also the lessons learnt when dealing with the general public gave a sound foundation for us to work on throughout the year.

In between travelling to and from Country Shows and Fairs, the Team under— took a variety of tasks from short formal presentations to 5-day Look at Life schemes, which gave interested young people the opportunity to live Army life for 5 days prior to committing them~ selves to joining the Army, and hopefully the Household Cavalry.

To the uninitiated the modern media and advertising world is a complete mystery, not to mention very expensive, but we are making headway with the

CoH Wrbber/y presenting the Bodney Shie/‘d to Watton ACF

assistance of a few well informed cavalrymen both past and present. A special thanks must go to Peter] Ashman for all his assistance and advice. At the time of writing we have just completed the film» ing for a new recruiting video due for release in early 1998.

The Household Cavalry have spent a lot of time and effort trying to develop recruitment within the ethnic communities. It has been an education for all concerned but at last we seem to be moving in the right direction and hope— fully the effort will pay off with ever increasing momentum; changing public opinion is a marathon not a sprint!

The allocated target figures for 1997/98 have almost been met. This is mainly due to the tremendous effort by the Recruiting SNCOs around the country, with some areas having more success than others because of their location. To

maximise the use of the limited number of recruiting posts some will relocate in the North of England, an area of great potential. Further development of this potential will be strengthened by two Special Recruiters in the New Year.

HOWAY THE LADS!

blending m we”

Pastoral Notes from the Chaplain’s Office

by Padre P Bosher (RA ChD) 997 has been a good year for me in being able to get to know and take part in the life of the HCR. Although I have been in Windsor for nearly 2 years, the first year was spent with the Scots Guards and their tour of Northern Ireland. To some extent we have made amends this year with visits to Squadrons on TESEX, a short trip to Bosnia, the Queen’s visit, and the Drum Head Service on Open Day. All of those events were special in their own way but the highlight for me, and I hope you, was our Garrison Carol Service in December complete with Mexican wave. My thanks to all those who helped with music and readings at the services.

I have valued being a part of your day to day lives and such involvement has allowed you to see, I hope, that my job is to serve you.

To that end life in the Chaplain’s office has got busier as time has gone on, with an increase in the number of wedding inquiries and baptisms. Without my own church it has meant putting people in touch with the right church or negotiating with the local churches, so that we can use them. On the personal front it has been good to have soldiers, both married and single, pop in for a chat, and I hope that this relaxed and confidential way of doing things is of benefit. It always takes time to build up something new, and to have a full time chaplain is a new experience for Windsor. My time with you comes to an end in January 1998 but my successor will take over in February, and I am sure that you will make him as welcome as you have made me over the last 2 years.

Household Cavalry Regiment 24

Household Cavalry Regiment

25

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

Diary of Events January

Foreword

by Lieutenant Colonel HSJ Scott, The Life Guards Commanding Officer Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

he Mounted Regiment enters 1998 in good order, with more men than last year and less scaffolding. Last year there were 70 all ranks trained in the Riding School and there remains every expectation that the improved recruit— ing position is continuing. The arrival of these young soldiers has allowed the posting ofa number of drafts to Windsor via driver training at Bovington, so driv— ing the manpower engine of the House— hold Cavalry. It is the Household Caval~ ry recruiters who need to be thanked for

this improvement, both in the offices around the country and in the team based at Windsor.

Now that the Union is over 4 years ago, a full posting cycle is near completion.

One of the perceived benefits is an

increasing number of NCOs returning to Knightsbridge on second tours, who will not need to spend time in Riding School, thus making them immediately available in the stable yard. Each year the percentage of mounted trained Household Cavalrymen increases and nears the target of 70%. You only need to look down the Regiment paraded for inspection to notice the high percentage of soldiers with medals to bear testimony to our dual trained capabilities.

The reference to scaffolding was to the

lifting of an eyesore that was the work— ing platform for the replacement of windows in the Peninsula Tower, a much welcomed improvement to all the flats.

However, while that matter is resolved the planning for the refurbishment of the stables lurches forward. A job that was to have begun in January 1999 has now slipped at least a year. This will

entail the vacation of the stables while the work is carried out, possibly to Barracks Chelsea.

if it is not possible to set up in Hyde Park. At least this essential work is in the programme.

Many will share the disap— pointment felt at the cance— lation of the Royal Pageant of the Horse to some excep» tionally foul weather that waterlogged the show— ground in Windsor Great Park. All the planning had been done and horses were about to be boxed down when word of the cancella~ tion came. We would have had 180 horses on parade.

It may be that the whole thing will be resurrected in the Jubilee year of 2002.

Summer camp was a real break from London duties. ' Glorious weather was enjoyed by men and horses, ' and just for a change the Open Day was not washed out. The 1998 Open Day is scheduled to be on Sunday 23 August at Bodney Camp near Thetford and all ranks, families and Association Members are welcome to attend.

The horses came back early from grass in order to prepare for the forthcoming State Visit in February. We had a large

group of foreign military attaches visit— ing and full dress inspections so January was not a quiet month. On top of all that, the Musical Ride formed far earlier than usual for a trip to the Paris Horse Show after the escort.

February February was notable principally for the State Visit of the President of Israel and Mrs Weizman and rehearsals were very beneficial as the Regiment had not rid» den in State Kit for some months.

Desert Orchid also came to stay in the barracks and all were amazed at his size or lack of it. He looked very little dif— ferent from a trumpeter’s grey! The Minister for the Armed Forces came to visit and brought the Irish Defence Minister with him.

March March was not busy ceremonially but was punctuated by Visits to the Regi— ment in the form of Major Gen RJ Hay~ man Joyce CBE (late RH), several disabled children and a German film crew.

Captain E A D Andrewes RHG/D came Lieutenant Colonel HSJ Scott. The Life Guards Command/rig Officer The Household Cava/ry Mounted Regime/7t

In 1998 we look forward to State visits in May and December, as well as the regular programme. I hope that in 1998 we will have as many people getting abroad as in 1997. The Musical Ride performed in France and Germany in 1997, and in 1998 will be travelling to Holland and Greece as well as throughout Great Britain. There is time for sport and other activities to keep up the levels of variety and fun. Our HQ Squadron team won a recent London District multi—sport competition, and there have been notable performances and successes in football, squash, rugby, swimming and cricket. One of the best football moments was W02 Bellringer LG scoring for Queen’s Park Rangers youth team against our own team, the team he has managed for the last 2 years. The

final result was made respectable by a goal from CoH Patternotte LG. We need to build on this and win the Cavalry Cup.

a Cropper in the Grand Military Race at Sandown, much to everyone’s amuse—

‘

3v

The Soverergh's Escort and the Guard of Honour at the State V/S/I of the Presrdentiof Israel.

ment despite the amount of money backing him! Military training in the form of range periods, BFTs and CFTs was also carried out.

unusual sight at Knightsbridge. The latter half of the month, was taken up with preparation for the Major—General’s Inspection of the Regiment. The weather was fine and the parade went very well.

April April started with two staggered leave periods, when the barracks, as always, was fairly quiet. We had an influx ofvis— itors for the Spring Open Day. The Musical Ride performed and Brigadier The Duke of Wellington, formerly of The Blues, took the salute in the presence of several other distinguished senior Household Cavalry officers. The King’s Troop formed up on the Square in the middle of the month which is an

May The early part of May was spent in preparation for the unseasonal State Opening of Parliament, following the General Election. The weather favoured us again and the parade passed without a hitch. The preliminaries of the Richmond Cup competition were held in barracks and the final contestants were judged at the Royal Windsor Horse

The Sta/tease Party to the House at Lord's for the Open/mg o/ Par/lament

As we set off into 1998 let our priorities be to maintain progress towards full manning, to continue to demonstrate the highest ceremonial and horse management standards, to promote the Household Cavalry as the ‘Best of Both Worlds’, and keep some time for variety

and fun.

With thanks to all for 1997, including our civilian riders, civilian staff and horses. I hope everyone enjoys next year as much as I enjoyed last year.

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

26

Household Mounted Cavalry Regiment

October The Major General paid a formal Visit to the Regiment at the beginning of the month and we were visited by the Minister for the Armed Forces of Brazil, General Zenildo shortly afterwards.

Several soldiers departed for the sea for a trip on Gladeye and others went to Fremington for some land—based adventure

., A The Lord Mayor of Westmii in the large

training.

The German Ambassador and his wife watch Tpr Mattison LG cleaning kit, LCpi Wood provides the commentary

it Parading out of the arena at Spruce Meadows on Great Britain Day

HCMR Athletics Team. Winners of the Prince of Wales Cup at the London District Athletics Day

Show, where the prizes were presented

by HM The Queen. The end of the

July

month, as ever, was dominated by briefings, recces and rehearsals for the Queen’s Birthday Parade, but the Musical Ride had the opportunity to go to the Rhine Army Summer Show and Melton Mowbray. In between all this hectic activity, the new book on the history of the Household Cavalry by Major JNP Watson was published and a very suc—

of the Horse, the first week of July was very peaceful and we were able to start roughing off horses earlier than planned and a long weekend was granted to all those who had not been able to take one a week earlier. The Musical Ride and mounted Band of The Blues and Royals

cessful Press launch was held in the WOs’ and NCOs’ Mess.

Owing to the cancellation of the Pageant

rode down to Earl’s Court to entertain the crowds at the Royal Tournament for two weeks. Everyone else spent the time preparing for Summer Camp and get-

ting the horses fit. We closed the gates for the day on 10 July while the Coun-

June June is a very predictable month for HCMR and 1997 was no exception. It kicked off with the Beating of the

Retreat and moved on to almost simultaneous

rehearsals for the Queen’s

Birthday Parade and the Garter Service.

tryside Rally took place in the park. The WOs challenged the officers to a showjumping competition on a sunny morn» ing in the manége much to the amuse— ment of the joggers - there were bodies everywhere!

The Regimental Veterinary Officer Major HRG Carruthers LG contemplates the forthcoming Major General 's Inspection

August Taken up almost in its entirety by Summer Camp at Bodney Camp in Norfolk, the Regiment basked in glorious sunshine for almost the whole time and the suntans displayed by all ranks made some suspect that we had enjoyed ourselves. The level of competition was high and the variety of equestrian activ— ity huge. The Open Day was a huge success and we raised more money than ever before for local charities. Socially, the weather made for some tremendous rides to the pub and some excellent squadron barbecues. The Revue, held in the WOs’ and NCOs’ Mess, had people crying in the aisles and some stars were born in the process.

HMO”. visit to HMS Westminster returning from the Gulf L to R. Tpr Bassett LG. Tor Lutherburrow RHG/D. LCoH Mil/er HHG/D. Tpr Porter LG. Tpr Carmichael RHG/D.

Two soldiers were, however, lucky enough to go to SHAPE in Belgium as a

September The leave periods started in September after the frenzy of returning to London, taking over the Queen’s Life Guard and putting more horses out to grass. The funeral cortege of Diana, Princess of Wales went past the barracks on its way to the funeral in Westminster Abbey.

The Regiment had almost no involvement in the funeral but many soldiers and their families watched from the vantage point of the tower block and the messes. The drum horse and trum~ peters of the Musical Ride disappeared offto Wembley for the Horse ofthe Year Show and it was good to be able to sup— port such an important equestrian

Two officers from

the Garde Republicaine in Paris Visited us for three or four days and were introduced to, among other things, hunting in Leicestershire and some of the officers’ cooking. A reciprocal visit was arranged for the following month.HQ Squadron triumphed in the GOC’s Inter'unit Sports Day held in Windsor, Battersea and Woolwich.

The Queen‘s Me Guard on The Mail lead by Tpr Pratt on a very damp day

December

November The Commander Household Cavalry

The beginning of the month had the

paid us his first formal visit since

whole regiment busy with the State Visit of the President of Brazil and Senhora

assuming that appointment in September and he was glad to renew old acquaintances from his time as Commanding Officer in Windsor.

Once again, the drum horse and trumpeters,

this time with the whole Band of The Blues and Royals, accompanied the magnificent display at Wembley of the

event. All the officers and NCOs went

Spanish Riding School of Vienna, who

to Windsor for a splendid dinner to say farewell to the outgoing Commander Household Cavalry, Colonel P B Rogers.

Over 300 sat down to dinner in the Gymnasium at Combermere for a truly memorable evening.

only make rare appearances in the UK. The Lord Mayor’s Show and the Ceno— taph Parade were the major ceremonial commitments of the month, although

the end of the month saw us in the build up for the State Visit in December.

Cardoso. It was a Double Standard Escort, The Life Guards finding the senior Stan— dard on this occasion. It took place on a bitterly cold day with a biting wind, but horses and men coped well. The Royal Wessex Yeomanry Race took place shortly afterwards and it was good to see that horses which, only days before, had been escorting Her Majesty down The Mall, were throwing themselves (and a few of their riders) over a demanding cross-coun~ try course. The normal Christmas festivi— ties ensued and, once the horses had been sent for some winter grass at Melton Mow— bray, the Regiment departed on leave.

The Life Guards Mounted Section walk past the Mayor of Windsor during the Freedom of Windsor Parade

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prize for winning the Richmond Cup. Royal Ascot and the Household Division Seaview Regatta were also opportu— nities for others to relax. A long week-

end was taken by some at the end of June in preparation for the extra burden of the Royal Pageant of the Horse. Having planned to move almost the entire

regiment to Windsor in the last couple of days of June and changed leave and

grass dates for men and horses respec— tively, it was all cancelled at the last minute. All that work, on behalf of the organisers, came to naught.

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

The Life Guards Mounted Squadron 997 was heralded with the arrival ofa fine selection of remounts and the start of the BI course. This was completed by six members of the Squadron.

Captain J H F Fuller, meanwhile, sum— moned all his bravado, and threw him— self head-first down the mile of compacted ice that comprises the Cresta Run. On one occasion he managed to receive the dubious honour ofbeing presented the ‘Shuttleeock Tie’ for those competitors who have had dramatic high speed exits at Shuttlecock Corner, and lived to tell the tale.

‘9

Major N D Garrett filling the position of

To relax after the Escort, certain mem< bers of the Squadron hosted Queens Park Rangers Football Club and, ques— tionably, threw down the gauntlet, (proverbially that is) for a match. This ended in an honourable 6-1 defeat. Cap— tain M G Holden-Craufurd, LCpl Forte and Tprs Adamson and Scott were all in the Regimental Rugby Sevens Team, which did exceptionally well in being the runners—up in the London District competition.

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After a strenuous session of Officers spring drills, the Squadron formed two divisions on the Double Standard Escort for the President of Israel, with Second Field Officer. This occurred particularly early in the calender, which meant the premature return of most horses from their winter break.

.

The Life Guards Queen's Birthday Parade Heiihue Party.

On the same day as the General Election, the Squadron found Numbers 1 and 2 Division for the Major General’s Inspection, which went extremely well.

However, there was no time to relax as rehearsals immediately started for the State Opening of Parliament. Captain C E O Allerton commanded the dismounted detachment at the Cavalry Memorial Parade. The ceremonial commitments did not stop Captain M G Holden-Crau— furd, Captain J H F Fuller and LCoH Davidson from competing as part of the Skill—at«Arms team which swept the board at the Aldershot Show.

June was dominated by the Queens Birthday Parade and the Garter Service at Windsor. The first rehearsal for the Birthday Parade went so well that we thought that it could not be repeated.

However, perhaps reflecting the heavy programme at the beginning of the year, another excellent parade was witnessed.

The Garter Service was carried out in cooler conditions than on previous years, much to everyone’s relief.

July saw a lot of to-ing and fro-ing with commitments for the Pageant of the Horse, which sadly had to be cancelled

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W02 (SCM) Bel/ringer LG hears lrorn The Adjutant Capt S St M Miller RHG/D prior to the Major Genera/s Inspect/Oh

The Colonel of the Reg/meril meets LCoH Hayes LG and Phantom at Summer Camp

due to the weather conditions, as it would have been a magnificent spectacle.

July also saw W02 (SCM) Bellringer bid farewell to the Squadron, handing over to W02 (SCM) Lanahan.

Captain R J C D Phelps took over 3 Troop from Captain M G Holden-Cran— furd who has moved to command the Training Wing, and Captain A Lawrence took over 2 Troop from Captain J H F Fuller who is currently commanding the Winter Training Troop.

This years Summer Camp started off on a high, with l Troop winning the Troop Tests, with 3 Troop runners up and 2 Troop coming fourth. Tpr Armstrong, riding Opera, won the Squadron Junior Ranks’ showjumping and W02 (FQMC) Wright won the Senior Ranks Handy Hunter riding Unknown. Open Day

Captain R] C D Phelps soon found his first task was to command the dis-

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mounted Cenotaph Parade, whilst Maj (DOM) M Torrent was thrown in at the deep end with 8 hours in the saddle for the Lord Mayor’s Show. Currently the Squadron is rehearsing for the Escort for the President of Brazil, before sending the majority of the horses out for a well deserved break after a long and arduous ceremonial year.

again produced many prizes for the Squadron; Captain] H F Fuller won the Tent Pegging and LCoH Weston on Urgent won the Swords, Lancer and Revolver, which was notable as it was the first time LCoH Weston had actually attempted this discipline. Captains M G Holden-Craufurd and C E 0 Allerton were 2nd and 3rd respectively in the showjumping riding Sultan and Opera, but Tpr Spooner stole the day, being joint winner of the 5 bar competition on Whisper. Both rider and horse had only passed out into Army life two months previously. CoH Gray and Sultan won the ride and drive competition, alleged— ly more down to horse than rider/driver.

In October, the Squadron Officers and

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NCOs dined out the slightly tired looking Squadron Leader, whose wife had just given birth to their first child.

Major N D Garrett was feeling the pace!

He handed over the Squadron to Major J D A Gaselee, who had just returned from a tour with the Welsh Guards.

Major N D Garrett however, has not gone far as he has now taken on the position of Headquarters Squadron Leader.

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Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

30

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

5

The Life Guard Farrier Party on the Major Generals inspection

was commanded by Major J A Lydiard

The Blues and Royals Mounted Squadron

Wilson and the Standard W02 (SCM) Willacy.

carried by

The Blues and

Royals Band mounted The Queen’s Life Guard on a number of occasions, Captain l) E Hughes competed in the Wind» sor Three Day Event on Boo»Radley and the month ended with the Lord Cham— berlain’s Rehearsal for The Queen’s Birthday Parade.

November started with the traditional move of Captain E A D Andrewes to run Winter Training Troop

for the fourth and sadly last time! He was ably assisted by LCpl Kendle and Tpr Broom. December saw the last of the horses disappear to grass at Melton Mowbray and the Squadron going on leave over the Christmas and New Year period.

The first half of June was taken Lip by

1997 started with a hang! The Squadron

returned from leave, quickly followed by the horses from grass in preparation for the State Visit in February. The Musical Ride reformed and the Squadron Leader’s and Commanding Officer’s Full Dress Inspection took place in earnest

with a very high standard of turnout.

The remounts arrived and were named Warburg, Warsaw, Waterloo, Wellington, Wexford, William, Winston, Wiseman

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Capt LEA Chauveau leading the Blues and Royals DIVlS/On.

and Woodbine.

The Blues and Royals Band joined in the preparations in February mounting with the Queen’s Life Guard. The Com— manding Officer’s Horse Inspection was

Captain J E A lugs—Chambers, H F Whitbread and LCpl Haywood joined the Squadron in March, having returned

ed his refresher course before the

Squadron had five days’ leave over the Easter period.

from Bosnia, and Captain D E Hughes

a great success due to the hard work put

departed to command the Household

The momentum continued throughout

in by the Troops, the horses having only been in from winter grass for four weeks.

The cobwebs were blown away with Troop Drills and the gradual build up to

Cavalry Training Wing. Captain E A D

April with preparations for the Major General’s Inspection on lst May, which

the State Visit of The President of Israel on 25th February with the Sovereign’s Escort being commanded by Major J A Lydiard Wilson and the Standard being carried by W02 (SCM) Willacy. Imme-

diately after the parade the Musical Ride departed for France where the early morning Watering Order could be seen

around the streets of Paris.

Andrewes departed to civilian life and is still working with horses putting the Sporting Life onto the Internet. 3 Troop organised a visit to Bovington and the Tank Museum which was thoroughly enjoyed by all and their beer recognition skills were greatly enhanced.

The Squadron also provided two Outriders (LCoH Hackman and Bye) for The Grand Military meeting at Sandown.

Tpr Wood rejoined the Regiment after a brief spell in civilian street and complet—

Captaln EAD Andrews Escort Commander for the Opening of Par/lament

Beating Retreat on Horse Guards, rehearsals for the Garter Service on 16th June and, the highlight of the year, the Queen’s Birthday Parade on the 14th, which was commanded by the Life Guard Squadron Leader. W02 (SCM) Willacy handed over to W02 (SCM) Maxwell and departed to become the RQMC at Lulworth, having had two very successful years and his character will be missed by all. The emphasis then changed as preparations for the Pageant 0f the Horse took place with planning, proposed rehearsals, uniform fittings and the training ofhorses to take part in a variety of different events and roles. Sadly, 0n the 27th, the Pageant was cancelled due to adverse weather conditions one day prior to our departure for Windsor. Rapid re—planning took place with the horses not going to Summer Camp being “roughed»off”, some lucky individuals were sent on leave and the Musical Ride departed to the Royal Tournament.

was a beautiful spring day and produced

an exceptionally high turnout and good horsemanship. It was also the first time that the new Drum Horse Spartacus had been on parade and he made a proud replacement for Belisaurius, behaving immaculately. The State Opening of Parliament followed fourteen days later on a warm summer’s day, which made a welcome change to the normal chillier November date. The Sovereign’s Escort Blues and Royals prepare to move onto Horse Guards L to R: Tprs Millington, Purser and Scott t . ”5'7”“

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.

Training for Summer Camp started in July with Exercise “Warm—Up” taking place at Melton Mowbray, involving twenty soldiers and horses who had the opportunity to enhance their Show» jumping and cross country skills com— bined with the all important dance tech— nique at “Tubes” night-club.

The Bombing Memorial parade took place on the 19th July attended by the Life Guard Squadron with the Commanding Officer laying the wreath. The Musical Ride returned from the Royal Tournament and almost immediately departed for the Cheshire Show, return— ing just in time to depart with the Squadron to Bodney Camp.

Summer Camp was a welcome duties that had ary.

It was a

Tpr Bodycoat on Oulberon at Ho/kam Beach, Summer Camp August 7997

are too many to list here but the highlight was LCpl Kendle and Tpr Cooper winning the Junior Ranks Cross Coun— try. Tpr Cooper is now known as “Equine Bob”. Captain J E A Ings— Chambers and SCpl (SQMC) Shatliff came second in the Senior Ranks Cross Country having been beaten by the Vet~ erinary Officer and Master Farrier. It was strongly rumoured that it was the only time the SQMC was seen on a horse at Camp. Tpr Brown won the Junior Ranks Show—jumping and we were beat— en by the Life Guards Squadron in the sack race! A special mention should be made of the SQMC’s department with Tprs Hinds and Young who would appear in the heat half way through the morning ride with cold cans of drinks to save those who were dehydrated. The Colonel of the Regiment’s visit on the 12th was a highlight for the Squadron and he remarked how well he thought the soldiers were and how the horsemanship had greatly improved. Summer Camp came to an end with the well earned promotion of LCpl Griffiths and

Hockings and Tprs Broom, Semczyszyn and Wood, The Musical Ride departed to Chatsworth and the exhausted Squadron to Hyde Park Barracks.

We returned from Summer Camp to go

on leave, more horses were sent to grass; Lt W Battle-Jones led the party to Spruce Meadows with LCpl Wood; Tprs Abbott, Brown and Walker departed to the AMEC at Melton Mowbray, LCpl Kendle, Tprs Millington and Scott departed to Winter Training Troop and SCpl (SQMC) handed over to SCpl (SQMC) Harris to become the RSWO at

HCR. After a well earned leave period all the horses returned from grass in October in preparation for the State Visit in December.

Captain H F Whitbread commanded the Lord Mayor’s Show, Lt W Battle—Jones was posted to Northern Ireland and Major] A Lydiard Wilson handed over the Squadron to Major T P R Daniel on 7th November after two fantastic years.

Early morning stables for the Blues and Royals at Summer Camp.

L to R LCpl Falers. LCpl Ansell and Tprs Galbraith. Scott and Metcalf

was enjoyed by all and break from ceremonial started back in Febru— Summer Camp to be

remembered not only for the fantastic weather, beach rides at Holkham, paintballing and barbecues but for also the success that the Squadron had in every

Warm-n.

activity it took part in. All the results

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

32

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

MT has had a very busy year with no major dramas. However as if falling off a motorbike at Summer Camp and breaking his ankle was not enough for LCpl Camp LG he also allowed one of the Metropolitan Police Escort Cars for The Queen’s Life Guard to unseat him on South Carriage Drive. CoH Everett is now looking for stabilisers for a Honda Pan-European!

Headquarters Squadron his year has been a busy and event» ful year for Headquarters Squadron.

The shortage of manpower in the sabre squadrons has required Headquarters Squadron to fill even more saddles in escorts than usual, whilst still providing the administrative support for the parades.

In addition, the cancelled “Pageant of The Horse" in Windsor Great Park had all of the departments going into serious planning and prepara~ tion loops, all to no avail.

Personalities within the Squadron have changed little over the past year, with a few notable exceptions.

In February W02 (RQMC) Nicholson LG handed over to W02 (RQMC) Burns LG and promptly moved to HCR as RQMC there and W02 Haywood RHG/D who had formerly been the Riding Staff Warrant Officer became SCM. He has held the reins ever since! For the lion’s share of the year Major IW Kelly LG remained as Squadron Leader. However, in October he departed to become Superintendent of the Royal Mews and handed over to Major ND Garrett LG, who had just completed two years commanding The Life Guards Squadron.

iThe Army Cup FLCpl Lawsori LG H? the forge.

LCoH Twyman RHGD. LCoH Slingsby RHGSD SCpl All/HS RHG Dano’ SCpl Hunter RHG D holding off all comers

Park in front of Her Majesty the Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh and an audience of some 20, 000 in celebration of their Golden Wedding anniversary.

The cast was to have been approximately 1,000 horses strong and of heavy reliance on the Mounted Regiment in many forms and guises.

Headquarters

Squadron was actively involved in planA February State Visit by the President of Israel meant that the annual round of Full Dress Inspections and Horse Inspections came earlier than usual, providing a great deal of work for the Farriers, Saddlers and Tailors. In addition to this, Headquarters Squadron ran Mili— tary Training (Annual Weapons Tests, First Aid Training, Combat Fitness Tests and Basic Fitness Tests) for the Regi-

ment.

With the arrival of the Major General’s

Inspection and Parade at the end of April, the whole Regiment was prepared for the “silly season”. The May General Elec— tion brought about a May State Opening

of Parliament that led into the rehearsals for the Queen’s Birthday Parade. As always the Garter Service followed hot on the heels of the Birthday Parade, with Headquarters Squadron personnel again strong in numbers in the Divisions and

Staircase Party.

Throughout the year preparatory planning had taken place for The Pageant of

The Horse. This was to have been a oneoff spectacular staged in Windsor Great

ning to move the complete Regiment to Combermere Barracks and then to providing temporary stabling in the Great Park. Accommodation for all soldiers, saddles and equipment had to be planned in addition to the transport.

The tailors shop prepared “different” uniforms (Victorian Riding School, World War 1 Cavalry and Horsemen of the Apocalypse to name but a few) and the Quartermasters prepared contracts for forage for the horses and food for the men. Unfortunately the Pageant was cancelled owing to torrential rain and the arena disappearing in a sea of mud (no matter how appropriate that may have been for World War 1 Cavalryll) and the tremendous effort applied by the

Summer Camp provided a welcome break for the members of Headquarters Squadron, offering opportunities to get back in the saddle and compete in all the competitions. The Squadron was well represented in the prizes with notably the Farrier Major W02 (FQMC) Wright LG and the Veterinary Officer Major H R G Carruthers RAVC won the Senior Ranks’ Handy Hunter, SCpl Atkinson RHG/D came second in the Senior Ranks’ Show Jumping whilst W02 (SCM) Haywood RHG/D showed he still had winning style in the Five Bar Competition.

Following some well deserved leave after Camp, the Squadron continued its support to the Regiment through Adventurous Training in October, the Cenotaph parade and Lord Mayor’s Procession in November and the State Visit of the President of Israel in December.

The year’s end has seen the usual round of pre—Christmas activities including getting horses to grass at Melton Mowbray.

Squadron came to nought.

The cancellation did not leave a hole in the Squadron’s programme. The Musical Ride and the Mounted Band of the Blues and Royals performed at the Royal Tournament in July. Once again members of Headquarters Squadron were deployed in supporting roles, whilst the remainder prepared to deploy to Bodney Camp in preparation for Summer Camp.

The Forge has seen varied successes this year. In addition to the Farrier Major’s noteworthy win at Summer Camp (albeit after 19 years not winning) the Forge has produced many excellent results at civilian and military shoeing competitions. FLCoH Middleton LG and FLCoH Adams RHG/D rode as the farriers for the Queen’s Birthday Parade.

FLCoH Middleton has now taken part

in the Birthday Parade both on foot and mounted, having transferred from the Coldstream Guards. FLCsoH Bainbridge LG and Pearson LG have both left the forge for civilian life and LCoH Macdon— ald LG has handed in his Riding Instruc— tor’s spurs and joined the forge, together with LCoH Ireton RHG/D. Congratulations go to LCpl Casey RAVC , who has been attached to HCMR for the last two years and has just completed his Bl Course with Honours.

The Saddlers’ Shop has had a busy year not only with the usual year’s saddlery work in support of ceremonial but also in saddlery courses for three ofthe shop.

LCOH Twyman RHG/D qualified as a B1 Saddler, LCpl Mackenzie LG quali— fied as a B2 Saddler and Tpr Woods LG qualified as a B3 Saddler. In addition four of the six regimental saddlers man— aged to find time to get married!

The Regimental Admin Office contin— ues to thrive under the care of Major TR Spry AGC and W02 O’Daly BEM AGC. The turnover of AGC has been to numerous to print. However, notably SSgt Wood AGC (formerly RHG/D) has returned to us as the Service Fund Accountant.

As this article is being written Brigadier Andrew Cumming is presenting Long Service and Good Conduct Medals to CoH Goodwin RHG/D (Saddler’s Shop)

”Look no hands ".

Ma/or lW Kelly LG prepares to go on parade for the Major Generals lnspecl/on lor the last time.

and CoH Polley RHG/D (Families

NCO). Meanwhile W02 (RQMC)Burns LG is handing over to W02 Atkinson RHG/D and preparing for civilian life.

We wish both he and his family well.

A very busy year for Headquarters Squadron, which will no doubt not seem so busy once 1998 gets underway.

The WOS’ and NCOs’ Mess he year started off with the New Year’s Dinner held in the Gymnasi— um on the 17 January. This was run by the Officers’ Mess Manager, SCpl Lana— han LG, who was on loan for this period.

An impromptu performance was given by members of the Blues & Royals Band, which added enjoyment to the evening.

SQMC Shatliff also put on an entertain— ing Dinner Dance which was greatly supported by a large majority of the Mess Members and wives, some in fancy dress.

Fathers from all over the country came to London for a weekend on request from their serving sons for an outstand— ing meal and entertainment from the Pipes and Drums of the lst Battalion Scots Guards. It is hoped this function will become an annual event. This led straight into our 3 London Marathon

The Warrahl Officers of HCMR at Summer Camp The Household Cavalry Mounted Heglmt

men, W02 (FQMC) Wright LG, SCpl Lanahan LG and LCpl Bentley RHG/D crossing the finishing line in 3 hours 30

minutes together and inviting their sup— porters and guests in for a well deserved meal and light refreshments.

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

34

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

35

The Standards and Standard Bearers of the Household Cat/airy Mounted Reg/merit on Holse Guards Parade

The Mess tried to identify 4 couples who

might reach the finals for the National Line Dancing Team on a Country 81 _Western night organised by SCpl Weller LG. Unfortunately there were too many left feet for a serious bid to be made, nevertheless the evening proved enter— taining.

Colonel P B Rogers (late RHG/D), Commander Household Cav— alry and Major LRet’d) J N P Watson, who wrote “Through 15 Reigns”, also came to the Mess during the period for their pre lunch drinks.

At the end of a busy Ceremonial season it was time to get out for a well deserved Summer Ball, which was held outside Barracks in the Queen’s Grand Stand at Epsom Race Course. The function was organised by W02 (SCM) Bellringer LG

and SCpl SQMC Shatliff RHG/D and they did the Mess proud. Apart from the rain, which nearly prevented the photograph from being taken, the function was described as one of radiance and rhythm. We said farewell to W02 (SCM) Willacy RHG/D who departed to be the RQMC at Lulworth and W02 (SCM) Bellringer LG to civilian life, only to be replaced by W02 (SCM)

Maxwell RHG/D and W02 (SCM) Lanahan LG. Summer Camp proved an excellent 3 weeks; not least because the weather was on our side.

array of topics causing a lot of head scratching. The Games night once again was thoroughly enjoyed with the main event being Sumo Wrestling. The title

of Sumo Champion this year went to LCoH McGarry RHG/D. The Commanding Officer and Officers were invited into the Mess for the Review Night with all acts taken with the spirit with which they were intend— ed. LCoH Ashdown RHG/D headed the assault with a good team behind him.

Sadly we had to say goodbye to LCoH Ashdown RHG/D as he returned to Windsor.

The Senior Handy Hunter was won at last by W02 (FQMC) Wright LG and the Veterinary Officer.

The Mess had an extraordinary Farewell Luncheon for the outgoing Adjutant,

Capt S St M Miller RHG/D which was held outside in the midday sun. Once again the chefs put on an exquisite meal.

Entertainment Committee, put on a healthy menu of entertainment for the duration of camp. The Quiz night was a well organised evening in which SCpl (SQMC) Coleman LG covered a vast

36

We said farewell to three Blues & Roy— als, W02 Partis, W02 Mardon and SCpl Rose at the end of November on completion of 22 years service. A good turnout of personnel from both Regiments came to say goodbye and good luck.

ernised.

non stop time for the Mess Manager CoH Halfhide RHG/D and his team, and the a la Carte in October saw a good turnout. All the Squadrons dined out their Squadron Leaders within a week of each other at the beginning of November.

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On 6th December the Christmas dance was held in two areas, the Gymnasium for the meal and the entertainment, fol— lowed by the Mess for the Disco. This was the only way W02 (SCM) Maxwell and SCpl (SQMC) Harris could get all personnel seated to see the band and enjoy the meal. This year the Brick was hung by Major (Ret’d) A W Kersting RHG/D with a good gathering ofserving and retired personnel from around the

country.

The Regimental Corporal Major’s wife, Anne Manning, and committee organ—

September came and leave started. The bar was closed whilst a rebuild was going on, the 4th floor being caged up for storage of Mess equipment, whilst on the 6th floor carpets have been laid in the corridors and the shower room mod»

October through to January 98 was a Both W02 Godson RHG/D, the President of the Mess Committee, SCpl (SQMC) Coles LG, President of the

Various wine, port and schnapps tasting sessions have been held, all labels were approved of but the Mess eventually ended tip selecting 2 new white and red wines, a new port and an array of assorted schnapps.

ised various functions for the wives throughout the year. There was an out» standing Christmas dinner at which a number of husbands put some of their skill to the test as waiters.

On Christmas Day the Mess opened up for various Mess Members and families to have Christmas Lunch and a few drinks. New Year was seen in by a large gathering of Mess Members dressed for the occasion and looking forward to another year of wide ranging and frequent Regimental social activities in what remains a strong and well supported Mess.

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The M8 Guards Band at a Wee! coma/1 II7 Srbac BUSH/a

The Musical Ride Ride Officer: Captain G W Howson LG Riding Master: MaiorI Sanderson LG Ride Senior Non-Commissioned Officer: CoH Bridges LG he year started earlier than usual for the Musical Ride with a trip to the Continent. We were engaged to perform

at the Paris Horse Show in late February, so rehearsals started immediately after the end of Christmas leave. Long, cold hacks to Wormwood Scrubs on wintery January mornings paid off and we departed for Paris two hours after finishing the State Visit of the President of

Israel.

Half of the Ride were lucky

enough to travel in style and comfort on the Eurostar, while the remainder of the Ride travelled overland and across the Channel. The weather was very rough and we only just managed to persuade the ship’s Captain to allow the horses on the ferry. Four tremendous days in Paris ensued and, along with some very good performances, we took a watering order on to the streets of Paris, accompanied by the Commander Household Cavalry, Colonel P B Rogers. The Ride took in such sights as the Place de la Bastille and Notre Dame. Our performances were accompanied by the band of the Paris Fire Brigade who were extremely capa— ble and proud to be associated with the Household Cavalry.

A few weeks passed before performing at slightly less exotic locations — the Regimental Open Day in April and the Aldershot Show in early May. Captain G W Howson LG and LCpl Marsh RHG/D,

the mounted drummer, had to employ all their diplomatic skills to persuade the organisers that the proposed accompaniment with a synthesiser was not really suitable for a display by nineteenth cen— tury heavy cavalry - the organisers of a military show had not been able to obtain the services ofa military band! A trip to the Rhine Army Summer Show followed and we basked in the early summer sunshine and the older members of the Ride reacquainted themselves with the watering holes of Paderborn and Sennelager. The only serious mishap of the season occurred when two soldiers fell off after a collision. Neither horse nor rider was seriously hurt and we continued to the delight of the crowd. A large beer tent sponsored by Murphy’s was positioned rather too close for com— fort to the stables and they received a lot of trade from thirsty Household Cavalrymen. It was good to see LCpl Newell LG and LCoH Payne RHG/D who were enjoying life in tax»free Germany, running the Paderborn Equitation Centre.

On return from Germany, we then visit— ed Melton Mowbray for a one-day show and were able to revisit some of Melton’s dazzling night-spots, including Tubes, the spiritual home of many Household Cavalrymen. We then took a break from performing in order to concentrate on the ceremonial season.

Directly after the Garter Service, the

Ride left for Lincoln.

The Lincoln

Show is extremely well organised and we were looked after very well indeed.

We were all ready to retrain for the Royal Pageant of the Horse and to form the majority of a Ride two divisions strong, when the whole event was can— celled at 24 hours notice owing to the Passchendaele-like conditions in Wind‘

sor. We then had a bit of extra time to rehearse yet another new routine for two weeks at the Royal Tournament. It was based on the full routine, but had to be cut from 22 minutes to 9. The Riding Master also included some trick riding and LCoH Hackman RHG/D and Tpr Broom RHG/D amazed the crowds and members of the Royal Family with their daredevil skills to the theme of Super— man. The mounted band of The Blues and Royals accompanied the Ride with great dash. After hours entertainment at Earl’s Court was extensive and nights often rolled in to mornings. The highlight of the fortnight was the Riding Master, the Ride Officer and CoH Bridges LG performing a sensitive rendition of a number of hits by Wham! and other popular dance combos. CoH Kemp RHG/D also stole the show with a dazzling display of youthful energy and a worryingly accurate impression of Elvis Presley.

The MUS/Ca/ Ride unde/ the Command of Capt GW Howson LG at the Aldershot Show,

2077M 70%" e x1:

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A Squadron GW Firing In Oils/bum,

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

Musical Ride 1998 - Look Forward.

JUNE Leahurst Pig Show & Country Fair Liverpool University, Veterinary Teaching Hospital

20/21 ‘ ,

Leahurst, Neston

Lilliput Lane Collectors Fair Enesco European Giftware Group Ltd Skirsgill, Penrith

Cumbria’CAll ODP

South Wirral 23/24 Regimental Open Day

Cheshire CountryShow 'CheshireAgricultural Society

HCMR,

- Clay Lané'Farm

London SW7 ISE

,

Mai-ton, Winsfors, Cheshire

CW7 2Qi~t

JULY

«a?

LCD! Mount LG IaCKrng up Cuanz. a Mos.

land for the Air Show. The Northeast is a very friendly area and the night life is exhausting even for the most hardened of partygoers. We had a slight mishap when the PR1 tent blew away after it had taken all the brain power of the Ride

.r

Heathfield 81 District Agricultural Show, MUS/Ca/ Ride Parade. Hyde Park

j 12

Broomfileds, Courtlands,

Lay-Down horse

With only one day of rest after two solid weeks of performing, the Ride then departed for the Nantwich International Cheese Festival. Although a startling contrast from gay Paris, the organisers were most hospitable and fed and watered us most generously.

From there we went all the way up to Sunder—

‘

. ‘

1997 took us to all sorts of extraordinary places and we performed in the presence of many members of the Royal Family, other important dignitaries and tens of thousands of members of the general public, in England and abroad. The Ride featured in numerous newspaper and magazine articles and on prime time television on ITV during the Royal Tournament. Throughout, the members of the Ride performed splendidly and worked very hard to keep the Regiment in the public eye. Admittedly, a lot of

Officer and the brawn of LCoH McGar~ ry RHG/D to put it up in the first place.

Minor damage to a car was the result, but the main problem was that the tent did not actually belong to the Ride and was torn to shreds I After Summer Camp and performing at the Open Day, we departed Bodney

directly for Chatsworth and the final show of the year. Stabled in the shadow of Chatsworth House itself, it was a memorable weekend for a variety of reasons. After two performances in cloaks on the Saturday, Sunday’s itinerary was completely washed out as the arena was under a foot of water by lunchtime. The rest of the day was spent digging drainage ditches into the stable lines as the horses were up to their fetlocks in water. Sunday had also dawned to the incredible news of the death of Diana, Princess of Wales.

The trumpeters added solemnity to a brief but moving ceremony by playing the Last Post and Reveille, during the show. We did think that we might have had to return to London post haste, but that was not, in the end, necessary.

fun was had no doubt as both for the skills and in licity.

along the way but there is to the value of the Ride, development of equitation terms of regimental pub»

ATR Firbr‘ightOpen Day, urban. ‘ Surrey. ‘ '

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Nutley, Heidi-led” .:' '

East Sussex.

22-047Aug-

Vi '

Land van Ooit, Drunen, Holland.

1998 should be a bumper year and planning for the next season began in June 1997. Trips to many County Shows are in the offing and plans for an exciting tour of Holland are well under way for July.

Tp/ Wr/lrams HHG/D tending to Janus, the MUS/Cal RIC/e Drum Horse Ill 7997

iU?RN i i “ as] OB

REESE FACULTY of VETERINARY SCIENCE Leahurst

.Alilboy

LEAHURST PIG SHOW AND COUNTRY FAIR

10th COLLECTORS FAIR 20 8: 21 JUNE 1998 Featuring The Household Cavalry Musical Ride

Easter Monday 13th April, 1993;

9. 30am - 5.00pm

The competition will include all UK rare p/g breeds

About Lilliput Lane Lilliput lane produce the world's finest hand-crafted miniature cottage sculptures. Ideal as gifts for your loved-ones, and prized by collectors

Gloucester Old Spots. Bribsh Saddloltaclr. Middle Mia. Berkshire. Large Black. Tanmnlr and British Log

throughout the world. Available from all leading China (St Glass Retailers, The Show will feature Tom Alty with his One Man and His Pig Display Team

Department Stores and Giftware Shops. join us at Woburn Abbey

and as its main attraction has great pleasure in welcoming the

Musical Ride of the Household Cavalry

Lilliput Lane are pleased to offer free tickets (worth £8.50 each) for this year's event to those currently serving with, and retired from, The

Household Cavalry For further information: Leahurst, Naston, South Wirral, L64 7TE Tel 0151—794 6033 Fax 0151-754 6034

Applications for tickets should be made in writing to: C Masters, Lilliput Lane Show Organiser, Enesco European Giftware Group, Brunthill Road, Kingstown Industrial Estate, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 OEN. Postal applications only please, clearly stating your name, address, and the number of

tickets you would like. Maximum of {our tickets per application.

Deadline for applications 11 june 1998.

THE l‘NIVl" RSITY 0f LIVERPOOL

If you do not wish to receive future mailings, please tick this box El @1998 EEGG Ltd.

Household Cavalry News 42

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

43

Musical Ride 1998

Look Forward.

The Band of The Blues and Royal

AUGUST

138th Dorchester Agricultural Show 23

Regimental Summer Camp Open Day.

One of the fastest growing shows in the South of England

The Eye Show, 17, Victoria Hill Eye, Suffolk

he Calender for 1997 has proved to be a very busy year, with the Band of the Blues and Royals undertaking many varied and challenging engage~ ments. The year began quietly, with many members of the band taking the

1P23 7HH opportunity to complete their medical training and education.

SEPTEMBER 04

Dorchester Show, 27, Durngate Street, Dorchester Dorset, DT1 IJP

Saturday, 5th September 1998 at Came Park, Dorchester For more details Tel: 01305 264249 Fax: 01305 251643

Newbury & Royal County of Berks Show Newbury Showground Priors Court, Hermitage Thatcham, Berks, RG18 9QZ

NOVEMBER 6/7/8

International Jumping of Brussels Brussels

Tuesday 23 & Wednesday 24 June 1998 The Showground, Tabley, Knutsford on (he occasion ofllw 1601/1 :1m111't'r5t1rfv Shot.” at mt platted In {cc/conic

Athens Military Pagent THE HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY MUSICAL RIDE

C/O British Embassy

with will hr presenting tlmr[icrlin‘mulu‘r on but]: zlttvr u] (/1! Show

Athens Greece

Details from: Cheshire Agricultural Society, Clay Farm, Marton, Winford, Cheshire CW7 2QH . Tel: 01829 760020

Old Comrades the Household Cavalry Regiment NEED you NOW as Ministry of Defence Civilian Security Officers at Combermere Barracks, Windsor Permanent Posts Based at Windsor you will be Working in a military barracks where you will be responsible for security. A shift system will be in operation for which additional allowances are payable.

You will be required to monitor entry and exit of vehicles and personnel; patrol grounds and buildings; issue and check passes; escort visitors and contractors; conduct security checks and complete and maintain various records.

During March the preparations for the Major General’s parade began with the usual round of inspections and exchanges. The parade itself took place in Hyde Park on a beautiful spring day and was judged to be a great success.

This was a good start to the ceremonial season, which continued with the Beating of the Retreat on Horse Guards Parade and, of course, the Trooping of the Colour, which saw Major (DOM) C R C Garrity RHG/D, mounted on Har» vester, ride off parade for the last time.

The Garter Ceremony and Royal Ascot then followed, with the band now in full swing and preparing for three weeks mounted duty in support of the Musical Ride at the Royal Tournament. Once again the band acquitted itself with high honours, whilst receiving favourable comments from Her Majesty the Queen.

October saw the band Visiting D Squadron in Bosnia. Major G V Woyka

RHG/D, the Squadron Leader had arranged a full programme of events, the highlights being a massed bands concert in Banja Luka, a Squadron “Open Day” , which was an outstanding success for D Squadron, and a Regimen—

The Household Cavalry Mounted Band commanded by Major (DOM) CRC Garnty RHG/D durrng the Regimental Walk Past on the Queen ‘5 Brrthday Parade

advantage of a free day to experience a little of the local culture in Croatia before flying home.

Medal Parade for D Squadron at Wind— In November The Spanish Riding School of Vienna arrived on their three week tour of England and, accompanied by the band and mounted trumpeters, gave performances in Doncaster, Birmingham and London.

years of age, be of smart appearance and in a good state of health. Any

tal “Church Service” for all denomina-

successful candidate will have to attend a medical.

tions.

Salary/Benefits

The Blues and Royals Band with the Squadron Leader of D Squadron The Blues and Royals and Major GV Woyka RHG/D at the metal factory rn Ban/a Luka on the/r vislt to Bosnra.

Starting Salary will be £8353pa. On successful completion of training the salary will rise to £9061 pa.

The band were able to take

On the 17th December 1997 the band was delighted to perform during the

sor Castle. Later the same morning, on a cold winter’s day, with snow falling, standards flying and the bands playing, the Household Cavalry Regiment exer— cised its Freedom of Windsor, bringing

The Blues and Royals Band rn Troo/r Harbour Croat/a haw/7g returned from their vrsrtr to D Squadron The Blues and Royals rn Bosnla

A shift allowance of 20% of basic pay

is payable plus a flexible rostering allowance of 4%.

Successful

candidates will qualify for a non—contributory pension scheme and be Qualifications/Experience Training will be provided, however, applicants should be between 1855

entitled to 25 days paid leave per year. There are also 10 |/: days Public and Privilege Days, Uniforms will be provided.

For an application form please contact: ACSM London Districty, Recruitment Department, Royal Military Academy,

Adjutant or RCM

Household Cavalry Regiment Combermere Barracks, Windsor,

Berks, SL4 3DN.

Tel 01753 755231 or 755247 (fax 755206)

telephone Miss T Smith

Red Lion Lane Woolwich, London SE18 4]]

on 01817815968

We m an equal nppunumum employer and are fully committed in equal opportunlty politics The Mtnmrv of Dole-nu: positively welcomes appllculmm from suitably qualified indn'ldualx ll'rL‘SpL‘tlle' oi racial origin. sex or disillulm'

_——l

44

Household Cavalry News

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

45

the ceremonial season for the band to a fitting conclusion.

The year has seen considerable move— ment in the key positions within the band. Firstly in March we said farewell to W01 (BM) Pennington who was post-

ed to The Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall, as the Project Offi— cer and we congratulate him on his promotion and commission in the rank of Captain. In his place we are pleased to welcome WO 1 (EM) Brigdon (formerly the Parachute Regiment) who has successfully completed riding school and is enjoying life as a fully fledged Cavalry— man. Also we are very pleased to welcome Captain (DOM) R] Owen and his wife Sally. Captain R] Owen has recent— ly served with the Light Infantry, but

began his career as a member of The

Life Guards Band.

Winter Training Troop

He has been

appointed Director of Music to the Blues and Royals and takes up his appointment in January 1998.

Captain] HFFuller LG

Finally, we say farewell to Major C R C Garrity RHG/D who after 38 years service retires in April 1998. He is setting up home in the Highlands of Scotland where the golf, fishing, skiing and particularly the whisky are in abundance. We wish

him all the best of luck for the future.

Once again the year closes with the band acquitting themselves in the very high— est traditions of the Household Cavalry, continuing to be outstanding ambas— sadors for the Regiment and bringing much credit to all concerned.

Major (Do/W CRC Garrrly RHG/D and Mayor GV Woyka prror to the departure of the Band to Sp/rt for its return to Brrtarn

ousehold Cavalry men, since the beginning of time, have hunted to hounds and the 1996/97 season was no different to any other. The Regiment subscribed to three packs; The Quorn, The Belvoir and The Cottesmore.

Melton Mowbray is the centre of this heart land, where twelve Cavalry Blacks, six Household Division horses and two Guards Saddle Club horses are stabled.

The Saddle Club subscribed to a total of 16 days hunting a week. These were four on a Monday and Friday with The Quorn, four on a Tuesday with The Cottesmore and four on a Saturday with the Belvoir. The switch from Wednes— day to Tuesday proved very popular. It was also convenient for horse allocation, as the hunting week is now divided into two packets of two days.

During the 1996/97 season the Troop provided 196 days hunting for Officers, and 53 days for Non Commissioned Officers and other ranks. This was some twenty more days than the year before, despite a three week freeze over Christ— mas. Once again the benefits to the horses are endless and very apparent; the horses get the opportunity to jump a large variety of obstacles with their “blood up” and consequently become more forward going and experienced to different situations. This is not only a benefit to the Saddle Club but to the Troops at Knightsbridge, hopefully making a calmer horse on parade. The soldiers learn a great deal about horse management and improve their equi— tation skills, not just on the hunting field but also on competing in a number

of Hunter Trials and Team Chases, which provided a number of winning rosettes.

Captain E A D Andrewes RHG/D led a four man team in the Belvoir Team Chase, winning first place for a Military Team. He was again victorious in win— ning the first Military competition and first Household Division competitor in the Melton Ride. The Saddle Club say goodbye to Paddy Jo, Rosa and True Blue who are all retiring along with Cap-

tain E A D Andrewes RHG/D who is finally giving up the reins after three seasons and heads off to the civilian world handing over to Captain J H F Fuller LG

Household Cavalry Training Wing Captain M G Holden-Craufurd LG he Household Cavalry Training Wing has had an extremely busy year, with up to four different rides run— ning consecutively at any time through— out the year. With the Khaki ride now consisting of 13 weeks, the programme is therefore condensed and requires both determination and diligence from trainees, together with a high degree of proficiency from the staff and riding instructors. I am pleased to report that the standard ofrecruits passing out from the Training Wing is still very high.

Standards are also helped by the greater

six weeks are spent in intensive riding before passing out of “khaki” and enter— ing the final four weeks of kit ride.

The Coach Troop has had a successful year with CoH Mitchell RHG/D at the reins. For the first time in the history of the Coach Troop, they won both military and civilian classes at the Cornwall Agriculture Show. They have also continued their high standards throughout the year during appearances at Royal Ascot and Regimental weddings, and making a very popular exhibition at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

By appolnlment to H M Queen Elizabeth H addler and Lnnner

CLI FF~ BARNSBY Saddles Bridlework and Accessories Ceremonial Military Police and Training Saddles Manufactured by

variety of riding now afforded to those

LG for their efforts in constructing the new canter track and cross country jumping lane in Windsor.

Once again the 13 week programme has The trainees now been fine tuned. spend their first seven weeks at Knightsbridge which culminates in

their drill pass out.

They then move

down to Windsor where the remaining

Summer Camp was both beneficial and lively for all concerned. The Training Wing was tasked to put on a display on Open Day which went exceedingly well and the large number of spectators gathered in thankfully better weather than the previous year. The trainees then had the pleasure of watching Captain DE Hughes RHG/D being ripped bodily from his horse by W02 (EWO) Waygood LG during the horseball competition, fortunately suffering only dirty breeches and a slightly torn shirt.

[teat—at Officially Appointed Contractors: Col JWM Ellery (late LG) rrd/ng Nutmeg dtrrrng hrs Inspection of Nr/megen Krz Ftrde Passoul

who goes to JCSC, CoH Brooke LG to 5 Cadet Training Team in Chatham and CoH Farmer RHG/D who bravely takes over the Officers Mess at Windsor. We

****fifi*l

in training, as various mounted excursions to Pirbright, Sandhurst and the south coast to carry out long hacks, cross country, and beach rides are now written into their programme. At this stage, thanks must be passed on to W02 (EWO) Waygood LG and SCpl Weller

Ministry of Defence Royal Mews Household Cavalry King‘s Troop City of London Mounted Police Metropolitan Mounted Police Royal Army Veterinary Corps Suppliers of Military and Ceremonial Saddlery to Foreign Governments and Royal Stables.

welcome Captain MG Holden-Craufurd LG and CoH Holden LG (no relation) Soon after Summer Camp HCTW bade farewell to Captain DE Hughes RHG/D

Globe Works, Lower Forster Street, Walsall, England WS1 1XG Telephone: 01922 621676 Fax: 01922 722575

who replace them.

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

46

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

47

E quitation

by Major I Sanderson LG he year began with the Regiment supporting the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst Hunter Trial and the Army Hunter Trial at Larkhill.

Hunting continues to be very popular with all ranks and many soldiers had the opportunity to follow the Sandhurst Drag throughout the winter months.

The Regiment competed in many military and civilian show jumping competi» tions where LCoH Jenkins RHGr‘D had a very good year riding his new horse, Ramillies, into regular placings. LCpl Arkley LG also found time, when riding on the Musical Ride at the Rhine Army Caor JHF Fuller LG Lt MG Holderrc

Summer Show, to enter and win most competitions on his ride horse, Trah— erne. SCpl Hunter RHG/D continues to encourage the less experienced riders to compete at various local shows to gain valuable experience.

In Horse Trials, once again, W02 Way» good LG has had a very successful year, gaining over 100 Horse Trials points and placing him in the top 100 riders rank— ings. He has had numerous wins on Joust, which belongs to The Queen. His horse Crackeriack also won an advanced class at Weston Park Horse Trials.

Throughout the winter the Riding Mas—

we LG and cm Kemp PHG.‘D .shot Horse Shovv

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.,

Photo '1. courtesy olMaxMr/lrgan

FLCoH Barnbrldge LG, and FLCoH Lawson LG compet/ng /n the Army IntervRegirnenta/ Shoe/rig Camper/tron. ,

“h.

LCpl Turner HHG/D.

MUSIC/an Spelght RHG/D before the Cavalry Memorial on Remembrance Sunday

‘

W02 Waygood LG n'dlng Oracle at the Belton Park Horse Trials

ter competed in dressage and again qualified for the National Championships.

Mounted Skill at Arms remains part of the training of the Household Cavalry man. This year the Regiment competed in the three major events: Aldershot, Royal Windsor and the Royal Tournament. Aldershot was the most successful with the team winning the Tent Peg~ ging Cup and CoH Kemp being Master at Arms.

All ln va/n .. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse desrgned for the cancelled Royal Pageant ol the Horse L to R: SCpl Weller LG. Steven Gregory (costume desrgner} and Capt HF Whltbread RHG/D

Mus/cal Ride at Chatsworth House.

«a 4.4.4

:ze ‘

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48

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment

Tel/Fax 0121 454 5393 Vlinimum order 25 £10 95 no vat outside UK Shieldclocks £17.50

The HottSehold Cavalry anch Troop awart [liedeparlttre of Lt Gen Srr John Foley. the outgorng Chle/ of Defence lnte/l/gehce Sta/l. from the Old War Off/Ce br/rla’rng

Command/Hg Officer and Adjutan! HCMH inspecllng prior to the OUeen's Birthday Parade.

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Tpr Bamhursl assrsred by Tpr Ga/braithHHG/D prepares to mounr up m rhe szaole yard 5! Horse Guards

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Trumperers /eadrng me Star/case Parry info the House of Lords.

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The band of The B/ues and Royals fo/mwed by (he Slalrcase ParIy a! 2/19 Gamer Ceremony,

WHN‘) W ‘ WW (71%:er (yr/rum

Marc! ND Gang” am The L/fe Gr/a/dg Sovenegn‘s Standard sa/L/[e The Queen

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Photo caugesy olMaxMr/rrgan

FLCoH Barnbridge LG, and FLCoH Lawson LG competing in tlie Army lnterFlegimenta/ Shoerng Competition.

LCp/ Turner HHG/D,

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Mug/man Sperght RHG/D before the Cavalry Memorial on Remembrance Sunday

U A2. .,l . 7 9 Master in a rural setting.

All in vain. Tlie Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse desrgned for the cancelled Royal Pageant ol the Horse L to R' SCpl Weller LG, Steven Gregory (costume designer) and Capt HF Whitbread HHG/D if

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MUS/cal Ride at Chatswonh House

Household Cavalry News

TESEX-April 1997

by Major T P R Daniel RHG/D actical Engagement Simulation Exercises (TESEXs) are the most realistic form oftraining available to the Army. To the uninformed the exercises are conducted using Tactical Engagement Simulators (TES) that are essentially sets of laser emitters and sensors attached to each individual soldier and most military equipment and fighting vehicles on the exercise area. Essentially these grown up versions of Quasar crossed with paint ball replicate the engagements between armoured fight— ing vehicles and men in a battle.

EA ‘ I , fl ‘ Summer Camp Lunch. Capt CEO Allen‘on LG spots the mint whilst Maj HRG Carruthers LG and Bosco look on.

Since the end of the cold war the best way to use Medium (now Formation) Reconnaissance outside a General Deployment Plan and in the forecast Less Dense Battlefield has evaded the British and other Western Armies. In addition how we are to target new longer range weapons is also something of a thorny issue. The discussion is further muddled by the very brave and success— ful dash of the 16/5 Lancers behind the Iraqi front line and into their rear areas during Operation DESERT STORM only for their ageing CVR(T) to be overtaken by the newer CHALLENGER I once the enemy’s resistance started to collapse. From this experience, fuelled

by American doctrinal thought, a new Deep Battle Doctrine has evolved in which it is proposed that armoured reconnaissance forces and attached arms move into the enemy’s rear areas and fight a separate Deep Battle before and during the conventional engagement of contact forces.

In early April 1997 the Regiment got together for a very intense and argumen— tative study day led by the Ops Officer.

Concurrently SCpl Miles RHG/D and his hard working Training Wing did excellently in implementing a hectic training programme to ensure all participating troops were trained or retrained in the use of TES equipment.

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WOs' and NCOS Mess. Summer Ball 7977 at Epsom Racecourse,

Later that month RHQ, Headquarters, C and D Squadrons departed Windsor for the familiar territory of Westdown

A SC/mttar m an Op position with TESEX Laser attached

Camp and Salisbury Plain for Troop and Squadron Training. They ran and tested the two sabre squadrons and attached arms in an attempt to trial on the ground what modern day equivalents of Fuller and Liddell Hart were busy concocting on our behalf.

It immediately became clear to most involved that this was something different from the norm. The sheer number of different organisations involved, or meant to be involved, was staggering.

Something approaching at least the size ofa Brigade, and more like a Divisional, Headqttarters seemed to have grown up around the Commanding Officer who proved himself a tnan big enough to handle it. In the background the R50, Capt A B Methven LG, amazed all concerned with the complexities of his CEIs, and the RSWO W02 Carney RHG/D and an exceptionally flexible Command Troop displayed one of the skills enforced on the Regiment by numerous tours in Bosnia: the ability to set up and immediately speak to absolutely anyone, anywhere, all the time, including to a large number of people who didn’t bother to tell you they were coming and who have forgotten to bring their radios.

The new doctrine is supposed to work on the basis that in some cases the high potential gain of sending forces into the enemy’s rear area will out—weigh the very high risk of casualties when doing so. Historically the Royals had conduct— ed that sort of action very successfully and with few casualties towards the end of the second Battle of El Alamein.

Despite being told that the TESEX was to be a controlled experiment to see if it was practicable to operate in such a way on a modern battlefield, C Squadron Cynics, commanded by Maj G M D McCullough RHG/D, soon dubbed the plan they were presented with “Operation Certain Death" but nevertheless got on with it. Each exercise eventually consisted of an insertion across the restrictive Avon, crossings followed by two days of frantically trying not to be annihilated by a WARRIOR company from 1 KORBR and tanks of the RDG who had not had the benefit ofa 30 day air war to soften them up. At the same time the squadrons continued reporting back information to RHQ and striking high value targets with simulated artillery, real jets and helicopters. Once that was complete, what was left of each squadron had to conduct a squadron raid which included the under slinging

Household Cavalry News

53

of CVRtT) under CHINOOK and then escaping back to friendly territory or hiding up before allowing attacking friendly forces to follow on.

D Squadron Leader, Maj G V Woyka, decided to lead his raid from the front and had his vehicle knocked out under him. As the remainder of his squadron belted east across Salisbury Plain in a controlled withdrawal, and with no way ofarranging a pick-up, he had no option but to set off the twelve or so kilometres after them.

known for mincing their words actually told the Commanding Officer it was one of the toughest exercises they’d ever taken part in. As a Regiment, a great deal was learned and a great deal still needs to be done to enhance our equip— ment and to further validate work done to date. Whilst elements of the doctrine will continue to be trailed in Egypt, it is hoped that there will be sufficient imag— ination to allow the concept to be taken further by the Regiment in BATUS, Canada in 1998.

Generally the strain, even in TESEX terms, of being surrounded and hunted by the enemy with only professional egos at stake, let alone men’s lives, proved exhausting. Two seasoned Cor—

a, —

porals Of Horse from C Squadron not

,

IVS/7C1 GTOUP assemh/thg IOI' ’79 Queen ‘5 wsit to Combermere.

The Queen with members of B Squad/on

The children of the Kt/tde/ganen meet the Queen

ul'

”new!“ . .

The Queen’s Visit to Combermere Barrracks

by W01 (RCM) Lindsay LG he pomp and ceremony experienced by the Mounted Regiment rarely touches us here in Windsor. However, on the 12th of May that was about to change with the visit to Combermere of Her Majesty The Queen. In the run up to the

visit few of us had much to do as the ini— tial burden was taken by HQ Squadron Leader Maj Brown. However in the week preceding it there was much rehearsal to be done by everyone, culminating with the Commander Household Cavalry’s rehearsal on the Friday. The weekend, prior to Her Majesty arriving was a

The tone of the visit was set right from the start with an impressive display of drill from the Barrack Guard, com— manded by CoH Snell RHG/D. Next it was onto the Square where the sun was now shining brightly.

There Her Majesty met members of the Sabre Sqns and Headquarters Sqn. During the walk around the square Her Majesty was also introduced to a number ofstands, B Sqn showing GW, C Sqn demonstrating aspects of our airborne role, and D Sqn, having created a small winter wonder— land, showing off their arctic skills.

change of focus to The Blues and Royals‘ Association dinner and Cavalry Sunday, then a line switch back to the visit with lots of sweeping, painting and cleaning on the Sunday afternoon.

Monday morning finally arrived and with it guess what? RAIN. Umbrellas were summoned and wet weather programmes were starting to be talked about as the

final area cleaning was done and the Associations and families started to arrive.

The appointed hour was almost upon us

and the Sqns were still practicing Gortex on, Gortex off as the rain came and went, then, as the Royal car drove into camp, the clouds broke and the sun shone. For the rest of the day, as if by Royal appointment, whenever Her Majesty was outside the sun came out and when ever she went

inside it rained, although the Adjutant will tell you that’s how he planned it.

The programme now took Her Majesty into the Gymnasium, where she met groups from the Associations, the RAO, Recruiting, Training Wing, and the LG Band. While Her Majesty was in the gymnasium there was lots of activity in the Warrant Officers‘ and Non Com-

missioned Officers‘ Mess as the Warrant Officers and their wives were practicing climbing on and off the stand in the garden as the weather kept chang~ ing. Suddenly she was there in the Mess and straight away everyone’s apprehensions faded as Her Majesty made everyone feel relaxed and at home, and once she had spoken to everyone, there was enough ofa break in the weather to have the photo taken in the garden.

After the WOs’ & NCO’s Mess, Her Majesty went to the Officers’ Mess for a photo with the Officers and lunch. At

the same time the rest of the Regiment had lunch with their families in their respective messes. While Her Majesty was finishing her lunch the rest of the Regiment, having had their lunch, were transported to the Quadrangle in Wind—

sor Castle for the Regimental Photo— graph. Lots of shouting and sizing off then ensued but after about 30 minutes everyone, except for the Officers, were now in place. Just in time for the sky to open once again and the rain started to pour. So it was off the stand and into one of the archways around the Quad— rangle, all 350 men squeezed like sar— dines in a tin.

The Reg/mental Photograph at Windsor Castle g-r

Ten minutes before Her Majesty arrived the Officers started to gather in the Quadrangle and the sun came out. The

shout went up and with lots of clatter everyone got back on the stand, although this time instead of 30 minutes it took 3. The Officers took their positions and as the last one sat down Her Majesty arrived. The photo was taken and the visit ended with resounding cheers echoing around the Castle as Her Majesty said farewell to the Regi— ment. Well it was all over! All that was left was for the Regiment to be trans— ported back to Combermere, and every— one to reflect on what a great day we had had, most of which can be borne out by the marvellous albums of pho— tographs which I’m sttre people will

treasure for years to come.

The Queen with Ma/ot GV Woyha RHG/D talking [0 members of D Squadron RGH/‘D

Household Cavalry News 54

Household Cavalry News

55

Open Day - Sunday 15 June

Exercise Bright Star

by Major GGE Stibbe LG

by Captain AB Met/wen LG

The Household Cavalry open day was held on the 15 June. It was an ideal opportunity for family and friends, as well as the general public, to visit the Regiment and gain an understanding of our varied roles and equipment, in a

relaxed and fun environment.

The morning started with the Drum Head Service which was conducted by the Padre, Captain P Bosher.

Many members of the Regimental Associations attended the service, adding to the oceasion. After the service everyone retired to their respective messes for lunch.

In the afternoon the regiment carried out a number of displays on the square for the large crowd that had gathered. C Squadron formed up, one by one, in a

talk through of the formation of an Armoured Reconnaissance Squadron. B Squadron performed an immaculate drill

display under the commands of CoH Bonner. MT carried out a display of driving skills on vehicles ranging from motorbikes to a skid car, and the Band of the Life Guards ‘Beated the Retreat’. All this was finished off by a display of historic vehicle, many crewed by association members, who used the vehicle during their time in the Regiments. Ex WOI Evans returned to the Regiment to command the Ferret he used in the Gulf War. The salute was taken by the Colonel of the Life Guards, Major Gen— eral Lord Michael Fitzalan Howard.

The visitors were also invited to get a closer look at some of the equipment on parade with a number of displays and stands. These included contemporary and historic vehicle displays, kit and equipment displays, and displays by the RMP and 7 RHA who joined the Regi— ment for the day.

, e Regimen? on parade

Exercise BRIGHT STAR was a multinational exercise held throughout

October in

The Colorie/ of the Life Guards rs welcomed by [/76 RCA/l

The visitors, including many children, had a wonderful day. Thanks go to all those who took part, especially to Major M R Brown RHG/D for organising such an interesting an varied day.

The Corinna/icing Oil/oer rams Nita L the Drum Head S. .

ri‘ kg‘1'.

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a 5iii a?

Gtrtirtl Standard (4/

the Egyptian Western

Desert. The area of our tribulations was bounded by the Alamein minefields to the west, the Bay of Arabs on the Mediterranean to the north and the Qattara depression to the south. The resultant space was wide and gave us a huge area.

The ground varied from the expected flat open desert around our camp to the scarp and rock of the depression. The camp itselfwas centred on Mubarak Military City, the Egyptian equivalent of Westdown Camp. This was at the eastern end of the Alam Halfa ridge, 6 miles from the high water mark of the Deutsche Afrika Korps ambitions in North Africa. It was also the former site of VIIIth Army’s Headquarters.

This had then been known as the “meat safe” owing to the mass of flies trapped inside the fly screens. Curiously, to escape this, Monty moved his tents to join those of the RAF Desert Air Force at Burg el Arab, in the first recorded instance of “jointery”. Mercifully we were spared a plague of insects. Our Joint efforts also gelled in a somewhat shorter time than the two years leading up to 1942.

The exercise was in four parts. There were also amusing recce, deployment and recovery phases. The Battle Group was a remarkably polyglot affair, with all three services and the Fleet Auxiliary involved.

The coalition task force involved ships, jets, transport aircraft, helicopters and tanks of the United States, Egypt, France, Italy, UAE and Kuwait. This was the biggest British deployment to Egypt since 1956.

Planning began over a year before, with the Second-in-Command and the Quartermaster making repeated journeys to Cairo and Alamein. Joined by the Commanding Officer’s R Group for the final conference, we had a chance to experience the heat and smell of Cairo in mid— summer, and marvel aghast at the local driving. Egyptian bureaucracy made for slow negotiations, but by the end ofJuly everything was in place, or so we thought.

Imagine our surprise when the advance party arrived at Cairo West airbase only to be held hostage for the first 23 hours

by the Egyptian equivalent of the Naafi.

All leading banker/credit curds tIL'L'L‘flIL’d.

They ran a closed shop on their over—

B San line up //7 the desert

priced transport and refused to allow our hire buses onto the base, disregarding a July agreement.

An impasse was reached; we had to back down and the matter is still being pursued by HM Ambassador. Our unintentional sojourn was actually a blessing in disguise as a sandstorm (the infamous khamsin) had just blown dOWn the camp which the Quartermaster and his activation party had spent a week constructing in the desert. Our welcome also gave us a taste of the modus operandi of our Host Nation over the next five weeks. Support problems notwithstanding, the rest of the Battle Group flew in. Once one accepted that movement had to be booked a day in advance, and that the convoys only start— ed around noon when our escorts were ready, life became much simpler.

The initial phase was sub unit training coupled with bilateral affiliation training with the Egyptians.

B and C Squadrons and A Company of the First Battalion The Light Infantry, attached from Cyprus, disappeared into the desert for some really first class field fir— ing. The squadrons were able to con— duct, under the watchful eye of Captain NG Woolgar QRL and his safety team from the gunnery school at Lulworth, a range package even more adventurous than BATUS. The Deep Battle, com» pressed in space and time, was conducted as squadron 24 hour battle runs, including Guided Weapon firing, battle simulation from our attached sappers

and squadron and troop raids. During darkness the troops practised resupply

by Chinooks flying forward with internal loads mounted on rollers which were used for the first time since the GulfWar and by Hercules’ dropping supplies by parachute.

In the meantime, in spite of the threat of Egyptian Air Defence Command to shoot down our Gazelle helicopters and their subsequent grounding of all coalition flying as a punishment, other unusual training took place. Given the presence of two British ships (RFA Sir Tristram and HMAV Arakan) we had agreed to several joint amphibious landings. The first of these was a bi-lateral affair with B Squadron under command of an Egyptian wheeled mechanised battalion. This went ahead in spite of the shallow waters of the Bay of Arabs and Egyptian pre—dispositions to put the exercise scenario before harsh logistic reality. The result was actually quite a success and a spectacle for the visiting Egyptian generals. The ships were even made to move their anchorage 800 metres to the right because it improved the backdrop for the reviewing stand. B Squadron and the Logistic Beach Unit of 17 Port and Maritime Regiment managed to look suitably impressive as they roared off the beach and our hosts, unaware of the planning involved, applauded as the landing was able to move inland and seize a D2 for the initial para drop.

Household Cavalry News 56

Household Cavalry News

57

Battlefield Tour - El Alamein

by Lieutenant Colonel W5G Doughty LG ost of the great battles of the British Army have been fought in what one might describe as familiar surroundings: European countryside and under European skies. But our army is nothing if not cosmopolitan: it has campaigned almost everywhere. The North African desert does, however, have a spe— cial significance. The battles that were fought there between 1940 and 1943 were not colonial skirmishes, they were pivotal to our later successes. It was during this desert campaign that the British

Army became a contemporary army -

Tor Aflpon QIVE‘S RHQ secunw

This drop was an ambitious plan to insert B Company, 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment, carrying live ammunition, into the middle of the exercise. They had been in isolation at RAF Akrotiri and had sent their Pathfinders on ahead by Chinook two nights before. They recced and marked

the DZ and the British Hercules trans» port aircraft came in exactly on time and right on target. The company dropped without injury and two Land Rovers also dropped and drove off the DZ. The Egyptians, Emiratis and Kuwaitis dropped ten minutes later and the coalition considered the amphib/para phase a great success. Yet work was only just beginning for B Company, who then tabbed 40 Kms south to the ranges to launch a dawn live firing attack, supported by Ct P Stucley’s troop in C Squadron.

The exercise then moved on to R&R and saw most of the battle group disappear off to either the flesh pots of Cairo or the diving centre at Sharm el Sheik at the tip of

the Sinai Peninsula.

Sun tans were

topped up, cavalry charges made round the pyramids and the rugby team beat the Cairo Expats before joining a raft race

down the Nile. Some more adventurous souls journeyed down to Luxor (this was three weeks before the terrorist attack) and saw the antiquities.

The third phase was the battlefield tour of El Alamein. For this we were fortunate that Brigadier The Duke of Wellington, formerly RHG, was able to come out and

visit. He led the Household Cavalry at

the International and Commonwealth Memorial Services at the Commonwealth War Grave by, appropriately enough standing in front of the French contin— gent. That evening he held the battle group spellbound with a lecture on his part in HCR’s battle.

Lt Col WSG Doughty LG also came out and provided an overview on the history of the North Africa Campaign. The next day the battle group visited the old minefields (some still live), the site of the stand of the Rifle Brigade at Kidney Ridge and the location of the breakout into the Italian rear areas

by The Royals. Much of what happened 55 years ago is still very relevant to the Regiment’s role today.

The start of the final exercise was signalled by the arrival of the American Army, in the shape of the Third Infantry Division out of Fort Stewart, Georgia.

We worked as their divisional recce and found that we were much closer in the way we did business than we might have even hoped. They were very friendly and helpful and much fun to work for.

Alas, Egyptian over-control moved up a gear and our area was reduced to a tri— angle 10 Kms by 8 Kms. It was a waste when we should have had the Whole desert to play with. By coincidence we were next to our newly affiliated French Cavalry Regiment, Le Premier Regiment de Spahis. Assisted by Captain B Poole RHG/D, the language barrier was broken down and friendships made upon which we hope to expand in the coming year. The final phase progressed slowly but just being in the desert was a consolation for the lost opportunities.

Tpr Be/Iy C Sqn

It was towards the end of the exercise that SSgt Fisher from the Royal Logistic Corps at South Cerney was tragically killed in a road traffic accident on the highway between Mubarak Military City and Cairo.

So the exercise finished. As expected, it is amazing what can be squeezed in short order into freight when everyone wants to go home. After the month long logistic headache, harsh lessons had been learnt and so the recovery plan ran smoothly. All credit must go to the Quartermaster, Captain MA Harding

RHG/D and his team in “Fort White» Spunner” and to Major R Attard RLC who headed up the logistic cell in Cairo.

In retrospect, Ex BRIGHT STAR was a useful exercise in a number of ways.

The Regiment campaigned successfully and independently in a way no»one would have thought possible only a few years ago.

The depth of experience forced upon the Regiment, particularly Headquarters Squadron, will stand it in good stead for the next few years. The squadrons and companies were able to train unmolested in a realistic fashion in a harsh but stimulating climate. Everything done was new and forced people to develop their flair and imagination.

Above all, in spite of our sometimes inscrutable hosts, it was fun, which is supposedly why we all joined in the first place.

much more recognisable to today’s army than the pre—war one. There were many hard learned lessons, but perhaps the campaign’s greatest legacy was that it emphasised the importance of cooperation, not just between the different arms and corps, but between the services too and particularly with the RAF. Some of those lessons were, of course, later forgotten, but such is the nature of education. War provides its own incentives.

The Household Cavalry Regiment went to Egypt in October 1997 to exercise across the same stretch of desert that 2nd HCR and the Royal Dragoons had fought over during the decisive battle of El Alamein in 1942. Some things have, of course, changed. The coastline is now a long ribbon of mostly unoccupied holiday homes, but the beaches are still there - including those on which the New Zealand Division enjoyed a short rest from the battle - before yet another bloody night attack. The Egyptians have improved on the Italians’ most Sig» nificant wartime contribution to the campaign - the coast road A which is now dual carriageway but probably still as dangerous. Inland, the desert sands have shifted, an irrigation ditch has been constructed, and the battle’s famous topographical features » Miteirya Ridge, Kidney Ridge, and others, remain as indistinguishable as ever.

The flies — those ubiquitous flies that feature so horribly in the films of the battle - have miraculously disappeared.

HCR’s RHQ was actually pitched on the site of the Meatsafe - the Army HQ that Montgomery described as the rendeVous for every fly in North Africa — but the flies have now gone. Surprisingly, and unlike the even older battlefields of France and Flanders, there are few physical remains of war. The armoured

hulks have long since been dragged away for scrap, but, fortunately, a few are preserved at the Alamein museum.

The fearsome 88mm anti tank gun still somehow manages to seem lethal, unlike the old tanks held together with thick layers of sand coloured paint.

Collectors of memorabilia were, however, mostly disappointed by the battle— field, although a few people did manage to drive over some German mines - fortunately without incident.

What is it that strikes one so forcefully about this battlefield? It is so different to the altogether more friendly countryside of Northern Europe. There is no cover in the desert, the ground is either

too rocky for digging-in or too soft to provide shelter. It is an alien environ— ment — like the sea, it is just as much the enemy as, indeed, the enemy.

The pounding of artillery, the dive bombing of Stukas, the incoming whizz of tank shells - they somehow seem more dangerous here. And when we stood on the start line from which the infantry launched their first night assault, the starkness was palpable. N0 protection, and no camouflage, just the most awe— some and formidable minefield that an army had ever faced.

The highlight ofour battlefield interlude in the desert was the visit ofThe Duke of Wellington who, in a lecture, described,

SCp/ F/ynn (LG) carrying the cross at the Sen/c9 of Remembrance

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59

the academic brilliance of Dr Holden— Reid, a well renowned expert on Mili— tary history from RMA Sandhurst.

Lt Col WSG Doughty LG lectures on the Battle of E! Alameln.

Remembrance Parade El Alamein Cemetery.

so eloquently, a ‘worm’s eye view’ of life in an armoured car regiment during the desert campaign. This was the first time that The Duke had been back to Egypt since the battle, and on the last day ofthe tour the Second in Command organised a helicopter to fly him down to the southern end of the Alamein position,

And finally, the magnificent El Alamein Cemetery, overlooking the battlefield from the north, has a very special poignancy.

‘A corner of a foreign field... ’, Rupert Brooke’s words ring in one’s ears. Unlike so many of those small English garden cemeteries in Belgium and France, this is not a field but a vast stretch of sandy desert tamed by well watered plants, but devoid of the customary grass. Neither is it an exclusively English cemetery - a reminder

where his troop had fought during the battle. Mount Himeimat was one prominent feature that had not changed, and he recognised it immediately.

Like all cross channel journeys, the beaches of France came as a welcome sight on the morning of Monday 1 September. In France, our journey start— ed at the memorial museum to the Bat— tle of Normandy, in Bayeux. The Com— manding Officer, Lt Col B W B White— Spunner, introduced us to the tour, and gave each of the old comrades the chance to introduce themselves, with a short description oftheir role during the campaign. Much to the amusement of the rest of us, there were healthy dis— agreements as to the finer points oftheir accounts. Dr Holden»Reid rounded up with a general overview of what we were to study during the following days. that 8th Army was a truly Common— wealth army - its five infantry divisions being from Australia, India, New Zealand, Scotland and South Africa.

But the central theme of this and, indeed, all war cemeteries, is that it is a memorial to lost youth — a reminder that regardless of who starts the wars, it is always the young that fight them.

2 HCR Battlefield Tour - Normandy

by Lieutenant P Stucley, RHG/D s a relatively recent arrival to the lower reaches of the Officers mess, I was pleasantly surprised to be offered the opportunity to travel on the “2 HCR Battlefield Tour of Northern France”.

The tour, organized by Capt S J RhodesStampa , LG was to follow much of the fighting 2 HCR were involved in across the region during the second world war.

The party represented a spread across the NCO’s and Officers messes but, most importantly, we were lucky enough to be accompanied by twelve old comrades, all of whom had been involved in the action with ZHCR , particularly in the areas we were to look at. This of course added great value as they were able to bring a certain place back to “war-life” with fascinating descriptive accounts of what had taken place. The first hand knowledge was backed up by

The following morning, after a quick tour of the Bayeux Tapestry, we contin~ ued along the route to St Martin de Bre— saces. While we travelled leisurely in the comfort ofthe rather spacious coach, the old comrades recounted the problems they had encountered in the area.

Due to the closeness of the countryside, their movement in the armoured vehi» cles had been slow and extremely hazardous.

During the trip we visited a number of museums and memorials dedicated to the servicemen who gave their lives. At each stop it was clear to all, that immense time and care was spent maintaining these graphic reminders of the horrific events. At each cemetery there was certain to be a fallen HCR comrade, and thus a wreath was laid with due formality at the base of the immaculately lined grave stones. Trumpeter LCoH Gough, dressed in full ceremonial kit perform— ing the Last Post and Reveille beautifully at each location.

and immaculate picnics laid out on linen covered trestle~tables. Good use was made of the local farm produce, the beautiful scenery, and the fortunate weather that accompanied us.

The younger members of the party were taught a lesson or two on ‘booze’ consumption by the senior members of the party!

From St Martin de Bresaces we followed the route to Powles Bridge and onto the St Charles de Percy war cemetery were we paid our respects to Tpr R S Gamble (RHG). Tpr Gambles vehicle commander, Mr. Foster was also with us, which made the occasion even more poignant.

On the third day we travelled from Venom to study the three bridges of, Faith, Hope and Charity. Mr Brook, whose son is presently serving in the Regiment, clearly recalled the events which took place over fifty years ago and once again, the old comrades had their audience hanging off every word.

The final day was spent studying a different era of war. The group moved up into the Somme Battlefields, firstly to

visit the shelter museum in Albert.

Then onto Theipyal, the largest war

memorial to British servicemen in the world, before finally wrapping the busy schedule with a look at a well maintained section of Canadian Front~line. This gave a graphic picture of how close the two lines were in places, in this case a

matter of only five metres or so.

To many of us, this last morning was most shocking. The first World War has been well depicted in so many books and films. But, to visit some ofthe relatively untouched sites, and to see the bomb craters, the trench systems and the close

The Ad]! and HCM on the Normandy Battlefield

proximity in which enemies fought one another, left us graphic memories which will be an unforgettable experience. We witnessed thousands of names inscribed in the stone walls of the colossal monument at Theipyal, which is capped by the inscription:- “Here are the names of Officers and men of the British Armies who fell on the Somme battlefield July 15 » February 1916 but to whom the for— tune of war denied the known and hon~ ourable burial given to their comrades in death”.

And so we headed home, to Windsor, leaving behind a memorable week filled with high spirits, and more sober moments of remembrance. The journey back was, of course, not without the obli— gatory duty free stock up. It has to be said that the managers of the Calais Supermarche will now, most probably, be living it up in St Tropez on the profits

2 HCR Old Comrades.

At St Martin de Bresaces we visited the museum of the war. The couple that ran the museum had devoted their lives to the cause. They had been liberated as children by the allied advance, and had built up the museum in honour of those men who had fought in the surrounding countryside. They took great pride in what they did and have developed an amazing display on limited funding. A presentation was made to them by the Regiment outside the museum and the local press gathered to witness the return of some of the individuals to whom the museum is devoted.

79 dunno {lie Norma/my Battlefield Tour Mr Jock Occardl Wll/l Ll Col Fla/y. Can! A chk and COM MCGllllE

In true Household Cavalry style, lunch every day arrived in the form ofelaborate

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The Freedom of Windsor Parade

A Squadron. . . “Live at the Palace” (Bosnia 1997)

by Captain SC mees, RHG/D

by Major C N Mitford—Slade, LG

he Freedom of Windsor parade which took place on 17th December was certainly the largest spectacle seen in Windsor for many years. The entire Regiment was out on parade accompa— nied by 8 armoured vehicles, A bitterly cold day set the scene and by the time the parade stepped off there was horizontal snow blowing before our faces.

bemused Director of Music looked on as a 4-Star American General swept past him on the way to the President’s office. The stone staircase in the Banski Dvor had an ‘Adams’ style appearance with armed Republika Srpska police at every corner. The ground floor of this impressive building in central Banja Luka had been occupied by the Germans in the Second World War and used for stabling their horses. It had now been transformed back into an opera hall with an overhanging balcony.

The parade had its origins with the return of D Sqn from Banja Luka in Bosnia. Searching around for an appropriate venue it was decided to use the

The President’s Office was on the top

grounds of Windsor Castle as a fitting backdrop for the presentation of the NATO medals. The Mayor of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead was invited to take the salute and before anyone had time to sit back and think the occasion had developed into the entire Regiment exercising our right to the ‘Freedom of the City’ with the council entertaining D Sqn into the bargain.

The council also very kindly offered to give the entire Regiment lunch in Combermere barracks once the parade

was over.

D Sqn’s medal parade was held in the lower courtyard of the Castle. Attired in combats they were nearly outdone by the council who decided to process from the Town Hall in their official finery.

The robes certainly appeared substantial from a distance however closer inspection showed that there was little thought given to warmth in the design!

The Sqn and council then braved subzero temperatures as the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Leader of the Council hand— ed out the medals. The Council then offered the Guildhall up for families and Sqn personnel to thaw out in and The Regiment forms up at the Castle gates

floor o.

'

I

_,.

Marc/7mg Party from The Household Cavaln/ Regiment,

put on an excellent selection of earned refreshments.

well

Meanwhile the Regiment was forming up ready for the Freedom Parade. The cold continued as fierce as ever providing not a little surprise when one of the band fainted.

Hypothermia was not expected! The parade passed gracefully from the omnipresent RCM via the Adjutant and splendidly raucous Second in Command to the Commanding Officer. Stepping off to the glorious sounds of the Household Cavalry bands, surely the most versatile and finest in the British Army, the pageant continued.

Snaking through the bitter cold and past the more than bemused plethora of shop— keepers and tourists the Regiment most certainly made the impact desired.

Both the D Sqn medal parade and the Freedom parade were watched by the Colonel of the Life Guards, Major General Lord Michael Fitzalan Howard. He was joined by the new Commander of the

Household Cavalry, Colonel PSWF Falkner and Colonel JWM Ellery.

The parade was followed by lunch for the entire Regiment held in the Gym and Cookhouse. A number of presentations were made including the Tucker Trophy to CoH Paternotte by the Mayor and Mrs Harding. Colonel Michael then presented Army Colours for Tai Kwondo to WO 2 Tate and the American Army Achieve< ment Medal for LCOH Barrett for his work with the American Special Forces in Former Yugoslavia.

It was most certainly a spectacular day and one that will not be surpassed for some considerable time. The amount of work and effort put in by all concerned was the real reason for the parades considerable success and this was made an even more notable achievement considering the time pressure that everybody at HCR is now under in the “leaner” army and the great generosity of The Mayor and Council.

RHQ and A Squadron mare/7mg down the Castle H///.

Both had their own agenda, one to set up for an evening concert and the other to discuss politics of the nation. The con— cert was definitely the success story as politics in this country is shrouded in lies, deceit, mistrust and Mafia under— tones. The General, who turned out to be Commander SFOR, sadly could not stay for the concert but had time to look in on the rehearsal before his departure.

Another General took his place for the concert, this time our own British General, Maj Gen E J Webb-Carter, Com— mander MND SW. That morning the Band of The Life Guards had enter— tained local children, including those from the Radost Kindergarten (refurbished by B Squadron) and a nearby orphanage. The transformation on the children’s faces will be a sight which no one will forget. The fear and tears of recent years had been brushed away and broad smiles appeared in every corner.

The evening performance was a rather more staid affair but was certainly well received.

The visit by The Band of The Life Guards was a great success. It set the scene for A Squadron’s tour and broke down many barriers. They performed at a street concert in Srbac; a children’s concert in a tiny cinema in Celinac; Beating the Retreat outside the old cas— tle in Banja Luka; and gave a Wembley style performance before the start of the “A Squadron v Gradiska Brigade” foot-

ball match. Sport and music proved to be the best mediums for meeting the local community and giving SFOR an acceptable face. We were not an “Army of Occupation” but were sincerely playing our part in maintaining stability and working towards long term peace. On

ILCOH Rees (near) and Lt TAD Cape patrol/mg near Laktas:

the football front we played matches twice a week throughout our area.

There was always a large crowd, a pig roast and a few crates of pivo to greet us.

Sadly we did not win a single match, but it is the taking part that counts.

The first four months of our tour were relatively quiet.

There were a few excitements such as a large confiscation at the Gozna Missile site, a major move of dangerous chemicals, appeasing the “women from hell” and escorting an aid convoy over the Gradiska Bridge. However, nothing prepared us for the change of events which started on 28 June 1997.

On that day the Squadron stepped up the tempo from its normal quiet routine.

President Plasvic had sacked her Interi— or Minister, Kihac, the day before and had then flown off to the UK for busi— ness. The President had finally decided to make her stand against the Pale hard liners, her very own Government, who were following orders from the indicted war criminal Karadic, rather than the President. Kihac, the sacked interior minister, was not going to stand down

without a fight.

This was a classical

power struggle but with the President away it gave the Pale mob time to reor» ganise and plan their strategy. They started to take control ofthe Banja Luka area and gained the support of the local police. The Anti-Terrorist Branch in Banja Luka, based at the Domet Factory, was taken over by the Pale supporters while a small, team of police loyal to the

President hoarded themselves up in the President’s Palace. In the early stages the situation was very confusing and A Squadron carried out 24 hour patrolling, and a permanent presence on the Domet Factory, and resumed their traditional recce role of information gathering. All number plates of suspicious vehicles were recorded and then monitored as they moved around town.

The President flew back into Banja Luka on 1 July with rumours abounding about kidnap attempts, bribery and intimidation. Earlier that morning CoH Core had carried out an early morning VIP escort, closed down and with main armament loaded while the IPTF extracted two informers from the centre of town. In the afternoon CoH McGuire went to investigate the situation at the Kozara TV transmitter as the President was planning on making a public broadcast that night. He witnessed the Prije— dor police taking control of the transmitter and the setting up of a series of road blocks. The Squadron Leader flew over the site to assess the situation and advise MND SW. At 1800 hours that evening we were given verbal orders to take control of the TV transmitter, through peaceful means, by 1945 hours when the President was due to broadcast her speech.

Time was critical and LCpl Stafford’s driving skills were put to the test. Driving at 135 kph on the local roads and taking the Kozara mountain road at

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63

rally speeds required great concentration. We took the first check point at speed and arrived inside the compound

at 1905 hours.

Lt Bellman and his

Troop waited in reserve 500m below the

transmitter. After careful negotiation, and bringing forward a section into a tactical position, the local police backed

off. After the transmission went out live we were ordered to pull out (apparently on orders from PJHQ). This was most

unfortunate as it then took 3 months of negotiations before SFOR could guarantee freedom of information by all politi— cal parties.

Our first successful mission had been completed but it was 23.30 hours on 1 July when A Squadron were truly put to the test. Capt A Lawrence, the Ops Offr,

received a call from Comd MND SW that we were secure the Presidential Palace immediately.

The Squadron Leader set off at once whilst three troop mounted up. The President’s life was in imminent danger and it was believed that a terrorist attack had been planned for that night. After a quick briefing in

the President’s Office « with the Presi— dent, her security adviser and Comd

MND SW - the Squadron Leader put together a plan of action. Meanwhile Lt Cape’s Troop had arrived and secured the outside of the palace, positioned on all four corners. This inner cordon was in position within ten minutes.

Capt Barnard and CoH Thomas were the next on scene to set up a forward Operations Room in the ground floor of the Banski Dvor. Sets were remoted in through the window, maps were put up, furniture reorganised, shutters and curtains closed, body armour and helmets for everyone. The sight that really set scene was LCpl Mathieson, eagle eyed behind a loaded GPMG, waiting to take on anyone who was out to cause trouble.

Back in the Wood Factory it was all

hands to the pump: Echelon provided our base security with 4—Tonners closing the road, the heavy weight team of Tprs Lindsay, Bickerdyke and Pettipher pro~ viding an aggressive prowler force, with

The Blg Freeze

D Squadron, Norway Deployment

by Lieutenant P A. Bedford, RHG/D

an OP set up on the roof. The Ops Officer put in place an outer cordon with all available CVR(T) to make - a ring of steel securing all routes into the Presi— dential Palace.

SCM Camp had the admin support team on overdrive; interpreters recalled from home; chefs providing a 24 hour service and meals on wheels, SSgt Pratt poised with spanner in hand and SQMC Pringle issuing out key stores as required. This was a team effort— everyone contributed to the success of that night.

Monrtonng of VRS weapons movement

Within 40 minutes the outer cordon was in place. Just in the nick oftime, as we later found out that a team had set out to “take” the President but had been put off by our ring of steel. We held firm all night and just before first light we carried out a relief in place

park, , right next to the petrol bowser.

CoH Tovell and LCoH Wood were the first to react, using their infantry skills to skirmish through the vehicle park.

They engaged two suspects who got away with their lives as they used the CVR(T)s for protection.

Another 2 grenades went off, the last of which nar— rowley missed LCoH Wood as it bounced off the roof and rolled back onto the pavement. A number of suspects were arrested that night and they were handed over to IPTF and the local police.

These suspects were later released and subsequently raised a law suit for DM240,000 against A Squadron!

with 3 RMP. Soon after this the VRS were given permission by SFOR to provide a permanent armed guard for the President. Our actions on the night of 1 July could be justified on the grounds that we were there to prevent a civil disturbance : SFOR were the only force who could legitimately protect an outbreak of violence.

This set the scene for the next three weeks as A Squadron maintained a high tempo of operations. The shooting of Smjco Drlaca on 10 July added another dimension to an already tense situation.

SFOR, for the first time since the Daton Peace Agreement, were now a potential target and the security state was raised.

We were now prepared for anything and on the night of 16 July the revenge attack took place. The target was our vehicle park at the Wood Factory. Two hand grenades exploded in the vehicle

Capt A Lawrence and Lt TAD Cape with the Dan/sh [Jason Off/cer. (Geo “\ , d

Four days later we handed over our area to D Squadron. Everyone returned safe— ly to Windsor. Reflecting on our tour we can proudly say that A Squadron made a significant contribution to peace and

stability in the Banja Luka area of Republica Srpska. We will be remem— bered by the local community for the numerous civil aid projects which we undertook, by the VRS for our fair handed approach and by those serving in SFOR for our actions during the first 3 weeks in July.

CoH Core LSgt cnr/ds (RWY). W02 Cantu and OOH Stevenson amongst w/lagers of Crow/sh

3 ‘"""'a‘f""+. ”*2f?

fter hearing B Squadron’s stories from the previous year’s deployment, it was with mixed feelings that the Squadron looked forward to two months in the cold and dark of Northern Norway in the depths of winter. We managed to fine tune our mandatory predeployment briefs to avoid any of the unnecessary tasks, such as running around camp half naked to acclimatize to the cold.

After our brief introduction to what lay ahead, it was time to do as the natives do and spend Christmas building up that much needed insulation layer around the waist. The Squadron deployed less GW troop, at the beginning of January via South Cerney and RAF Lyneham.

The beginning of the journey was very much an indication of what lay ahead.

After a few days delay and a few interesting events which included getting on the correct plane which didn’t work and getting on the wrong plane which did work, we eventually set off for the Arctic Circle.

The deployment was split into two main parts; the first instructional part run by the Royal Marines which included the NSSC course (Novice Ski & Survival Course) and the WWC (Winter Warfare Course), and secondly the special-toarm part, which included Troop and Squadron level training culminating in a final exercise with the Dutch Marines.

The NSSC & WWC were both instructed by the Royal Marines HQ and Signals Squadron based at Asegarden Camp, a few kilometres outside Asegarden. The British Army uses part of the camp every year to carry out Arctic Warfare training.

Asegarden itself is a pic— turesque Norwegian coastal town located approximately 100 kilometers inside the Arctic circle. It survives on a local forestry and fishing industry as well as revenue from visiting forces.

Asegarden Camp is a fully functional Norwegian Army training camp where conscripts carry out their basic training.

Our accommodation was separate from the Norwegian recruits. It was rather cramped yet comfortable, but most important of all, warm. Snow banks had

built up to the first floor in places but it was made quite clear that the only

LCp/ Che/l demonstrating the "Nov/c5" emergency stop procedure

means of entry, and particularly exit, was to be via the front doors. Due to the delays in the flight there was no time for settling in, and we were thrown straight in at the deep end, issued with all our equipment and rushed into lectures.

Both the education centre and the cookhouse, which incidentally produced some excellent food, were merely a stone’s throw away, although a rather perilous little trip at that.

There were two NSSC courses running concurrently, one for D Sqn and the other for units attached to the Marines.

The NSSC is mandatory for all units on winter deployment.

It lasts for two weeks and teaches basic skiing skills, starting with the diagonal gait and progressing through Christis, stem Christis, parallel and then finally onto telemark turns and stops. It also teaches basic survival skills, like recognizing potential avalanche areas or building emergency shelters. The initial emphasise was to get to grips with military skis or “pussers planks” as quickly as possible.

The boots and bindings are very differ~ cut to those found on normal skis and proved a challenge even for those who claimed to be experienced downhill skiers. A competition was held between sections early on. Both courses were lined up at the top of the slope and briefed on the rules, of which there were none! As you can imagine the scene was of carnage- a melee of arms, legs, sticks and skis scattered about the slope. The

fastest and safest way down the slope appeared to be lying on your back with skis in the air! The last eight days of the course were spent in the field practicing all that we had been taught. It consisted of spending a few nights in ten-man tents, to tame the yeti’s among us, followed by four-man tents and then final» 1y above the tree line and into snow shel— ters, with day and night skiing as well as various demonstrations throughout the exercise. Night skiing , although thor— oughly enjoyable once you’d got to grips with pussers planks, was not without its dangers. Due to the lack of ambient light and thus shadows, distinguishing shapes bumps and sometimes holes is nearly impossible, and unfortunately meant that you only found out about them when it was too late.

LCpl “kamikaze” Chell unfortunately broke his ankle whilst night skiing. Only one obstacle remained prior to completing the N880 ice-breaking drills. Everybody was forced to ski with a Bergen into a hole in the ice, then had to get all his kit out, recite his name, rank & number, crawl out, roll around in the snow to get rid of excess water and then drink his ration of rum.

Once the instructors were satisfied that

we were competent enough, we moved onto the Winter Warfare Course to learn how to develop infantry tactics in the arctic. The course itself was just under two weeks and included everything from basic soldiering, cam and conceal-

Household Cavalry News 4”

Household Cavalry Ne

65

majority of us, synchronized ice skating in scimitars proved to be not only invaluable training but also a memo— rable experience.

An impromptu change in the weather, gave us the opportunity to test our driving skills in blizzard conditions, which not only completely disorientate you but also affect both your sense of distance and speed.

LCOH Barrett navrng drfir‘cu/ry rememoerrng nrs Hegrmenrar‘ number

ment, to the more entertaining aspects

such as firing whilst skiing. Once the initial instruction had been carried out we were then put to the test in a Squadron/Company exercise, which involved trying to locate and attack the instructors. After some epic feats in a snow storm the exercise was deemed to be a great success.

After our adventures in Asegarden, it was time to move North to Malselvefossen, 200 Km further inside the Arctic circle to rejoin our beloved vehicles.

Bardufoss is a small town which lies in the Bardu valley. The region is Characterized by long interconnecting narrow valleys surrounded by towering mountains which rise suddenly from the valley floor.

After our initial settling in period with our beloved CVR(T) (with heaters working), we progressed onto Troop and Squadron training which incorpo— rated a range package, heli handling drills, and the opportunity to have a look at, as well as drive, the Leopard l tank as used by the Norwegian Army.

The range period proved to be a rather interesting affair. Trying to stay on the battle runs themselves was a challenge in itself, not to mention trying to judge distances in poor visibility.

D Squadron adapted quickly and came away with good results. The helicopter handling drills was an experience most people rated as entertaining as the ice breaking drills on the NSSC, and to be avoided if possible.

The grand finale of the tour was a joint exercise with the Dutch Marines which included a 70 km road move, some amphibious operations and the subsequent move through some rather impressive Fjords onto the final objec« tives. The road move took its toll as petrol started to freeze with the combi— nation of falling temperatures, wind» chill and a certain element of condensation in the tanks. The Squadron was

Summer Camp

by Captain L E A Chauveau RHG/D

fter what had been one of the most tiring of the modern Ceremonial seasons the Regiment went to Norfolk for a well deserved break from The Mall and Queens Life Guard duties, which were now in the safe hands of the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery having taken over from the Blues and Royals on the rare occasion of a Long Guard.

Tpr Sharpe takrng a break wnr/e LSgt Frdd/er and LCoH Barrett prepare a snow hole

The return journey was a painful reminder of our initial problems leaving the UK. The flight was cancelled due to lack of sufficient friction on the runway?? We then opted for plan ‘B’, driving four hours south to Narvik, where we spent the night in a hotel and flew the following morning, as opposed to spending the night in a tent, hoping that conditions would improve overnight.

Overall, D Squadron’s deployment was a great success thanks to the help of the host nation and neighboring units such as Clockwork Navy whom the Zi/c liaised with on a regular basis. Everybody learnt valuable lessons, improved on existing skills and came away having added some flavour to their broad based knowledge of soldiering.

The overall view of camp was that it was the most successful ever. As with all successful exercises there is a mission statement, “to give the men and horses a break from normal duties and to improve horsemanship skills”.

The weather was perfect throughout which made a change and helped create an excellent atmosphere.

The visits were kept to a minimum with The Major General visiting for the Junior Ranks Handy Hunter and The Commander Household Cavalry for the Senior Ranks Handy Hunter.

The senior ranks was won by Major H R G Carruthers LG (Veterinary Officer) and

W02 (FQMC) Wright LG and the junior ranks by LCpl Kendle and Tpr Cooper both RHG/D. The show jumping was won in the juniors by Tpr Brown RHG/D on Vengeful and the seniors by Lieutenant M G Holden— Craufurd LG on Sultan.

Mornrng Stab/es rn me Life Guards Mounted Squadron at Summer Camp L to R' Tprs lddon. Mount/0rd, Krdd, McKenzre. Adamson, Thompson LCpl Rae/ford. LCOH Srokoe.

On the sporting front the Regiment played 3 cricket matches against the locals with victories in all matches but new friends made as well as plans for annual fixtures. The Officers’ Mess versus WOs’ & NCOs’ Mess cricket was not as close as last year with the Officers coming out as victors, the secret weapon was the Riding Master showing that Yorkshiremen don’t just talk about it.

The golf course was in much use with the Commanding Officer wining the Regimental competition with the Mas— ter Saddler coming second. First prize

was a set of tees and 2nd prize a 2 week holiday in Tunisia!

Day to day riding in the sunshine was excellent. The best sight was spotting SCpl (SQMC) Shatliff in his landrover supplying much needed liquid refreshment to the Troops who would then disappear off to another Troop saying “lets get it on Gentlemen”! The usual beach visits were much enjoyed by everyone in the sunshine and many discovered for the first time the delights of horses swimming. >

split with half acting as OPFOR with a The Squadron was accommodated in

Company of Dutch Marines.

the Malselvefossen tourist centre which was built as a summer camp and a base for some of the best salmon fishing in Norway along the river Malselv. The center is hired by the MOD every winter for training. It consists of a number of small, slightly cramped, yet comfortable

”/1 Arm Ha/f Cnrl/y Mum!" , I. to R , Unknown Lt PA Bedforo‘. CoH Gray LCoH Trr'nrck, Tpr Cullen and LCoH Barrett

chalets and a main building with the . .' (3 ¥ Tpe Adamson LG. Tpr Prest LG. Tpr Mountford LG preparing reed away

reception area, offices and restaurant.

After settling in, we then moved on to driver training, firstly using the vehicles

on a disused German WWII airfield to get a feel for manoeuvering in the deep snow. After a few hours on the airfield, certain individuals found that tracking moose proved to be a far more interest— ing way of getting to grips with the ter— rain. After becoming used to the deep snow it was time to progress onto skid pan training on a quiet corner set aside for us at Bardufoss airport. For the

EC Members or The B/ues and Raye/s Mounted Squadron

CoH Parrernolte and CoH Goodwrn wrtn Col Rogers

Household Cavalry News 66

Household Cavalry News

67

Captain J T Lodge LG set up an excel~ lent Troop test competition which involved much new blood with stands such as clay pigeon shooting, rabbit skinning and other country activities. 1

Troop Life Guards won the silverware ably led by Captain CEO Allerton and

CoH Lowe.

Open day saw a record number of people attending from far and wide and the various competitions were hotly contested

especially the Officers versus SNCOs’ horse ball which brought a whole new

meaning to the word “friendly” and cul— minated in a spectacular crash between

Captain L E A Chauveau RHG/D and Captain J E A Ings-Chambers RHG/D.

and friends brought the house down with a brilliant show.

The FIBUA village was booked for Squadron paint balling which turned out to be very popular for the junior ranks.

There were some noticeable heroics but Tpr Sherlock RHG/D lead some of the most daring “Victoria Cross” winning sorties!

The mission statement was achieved with an excellent break from London duties and horsemanship skills were much improved in a good package where all got out of camp at one stage or another. Quote of the camp has to be from a senior riding instructor during a show jumping lesson when the Commanding Officer cleared a jump, “now that’s what I call show jumping Colonel”! All cleared up, we headed back to London, that’s what I call a Summer Camp!

For the second year in a row we had a Review in the WOS’ and NCOs’ Mess which was an outstanding evening and managed to surpass last year. Yet again the talented LCoH Ashdown RHG/D

La Dolce Vita - Italy 97

by Captain C WG Rodway RHG/D It may come as a surprise for some of you to learn, as it did for me, that in the event of a NATO deployment, an entire Italian armoured brigade, the Ariete, will come under command of The Third (United Kingdom) Division. So, keen to learn more and with an eye to promoting international relations, I left the cold, wet shores of Old Blighty and headed south in my trusty Ferrari-rosso coloured “Cavarrliay” for the sun- and Chianti-soaked hills and plains of La Bella Italia.

and 16th Century architectural masterpieces by such masters as Berlini and Bernini.

There were many differences to accustom oneself to - not the least of which was the old lingo ! Operationally, the Italians have a large, 8—wheeled recce vehicle called the BLINDO CENTAU— RO. This is used in a role where the vehicles operate in 4 car troops, have the capability to hit targets as they locate them, armed as they are with a 105mm

cannon.

I was to be seconded to the Lancieri Di Montebello, the prestigious Roman cav— alry regiment, which operates in a recce role as well as carrying out ceremonial duties at the Quirinale, the old palazzo of Roman kings, Popes and now 11 Presidente della Republica.

CSPA Tour to Argentina

by Capt A]L Fox-Pitt alermo Saturday 27 September 1997.

The band marched of and the two teams, the Argentine Army and the British Combined Services paraded before a large crowd which included the President of Argentine Polo, the Chief of the Argentine Defence Staff and the British Ambassador. This year was the first time since 1963 that the two

thanks to resolute defending and the brilliance of Captain AIL Fox-Pitt’s penalties (scoring 5 out of7 from all distances) the British held the Argentineans to a 7-7 draw. The extra chukka was not played due an injury received in the last chukka by one of the Argentineans.

National forces had met on a Polo field.

The game between the Argentinean 7 goal team and the British 4 goal on the number two ground was extremely hard fought over the six chukkas. The home

team had the better of the open play but

Capt Fox»Prtt rn action

The Palermo game was the culmination of a two week Combined Services Polo Association (CSPA) tour during which the team stayed with Dr Marcos Llambias at the E1 Retiro Polo School just

outside Buenos Aires. This enabled the team to practice and try ponies for the matches and receive coaching from Marcos Llambias (5 goals). But beside the Polo the team had a marvellous time being endlessly entertained by Dr Llambias’s friendly family.

Before the Palermo game the team had played two matches against the Argentine Army losing 56 at San Jorge and 3-

4 at El Retiro. Victory on handicap but as the matches were played on open the series went to the Home team.

The Combined Services Team: L—Ft Sdn Ldr Am 'Ashraf (O) Capt Roger Mart/M7), 2nd Lt NICK Cowley {7).

Capt/Andrew FoxeP/tt (7) and Ma] Mark Cam (7)

The barracks are situated to the north of the city, across the Tiber on Via Flaminia Vecchia — the very first of the great Roman roads. The parade ground is sur— rounded by warm, honey-coloured buildings and shaded by palm trees. As well as working with the Regiment I was attached in a minor capacity to the Defence Department at the British Embassy. Here I was under the direction of the Defence Attache, Brigadier J A Anderson (late The Gurkas).

The embassy was designed by Sir Basil Spence in the 1960s, so my greatest PR role, in fact, was trying to convince the Romans that a large, squat, concrete edi— fice, built on huge stilts, overlooking the site of one of the most important battles of the Republic and Garibaldi’s canipaign at Porta Pia, was in fact a great architectural addition to the elegant streets and piazzas filled with 14th, 15th

The turret was highly manoeuvrable with a fast power traverse and laser range-finder and superb optics with sev— eral magnification variables. From our position in barracks on top of a hill, we felt quite voyeuristic when spying on people in their apartments. I certainly got my share of turret-time ! The Centauro was designed very much as a defensive vehicle, ready to shoot up the motor— ways and give any invading forces a sharp punch on the nose. It was incred— ibly easy to drive and, as all 8 wheels steer, highly manoeuvrable. Early on I

was fortunate to be given command of one. The exercise, a one day affair, went fine until the drive back to Rome, la Citta Eterna. By this stage, my Italian was coming on in leaps and bounds, but faced with two Sicilian soldiers who spoke no ‘Eenglis’ and still finding Ital» ian driving, one—way systems and the Highway Code somewhat beyond my grasp —as well as that of most Italians - a simple road move, once I’d obviously lost the main convoy, turned into a two hour tour of the main sights of Rome !

Unscathed, reasonably unruffled and still totally uncomprehending what was

Capt Rodway wrth the Head Sta/l of the Defence Language School. Perl/Ola. The Commandant, General Grazranl, Centre

Catchrng up on a few old war stories.

going on, I somehow made it back.

Strange thing was, that was my first and last time I commanded on my own (0 Solo Mio I).

As far as ceremony goes, the Lancieri no longer have horses, but carry out all duties dismounted. They wear large, dark cloaks and carry long lances and provide quite a spectacle. There is 21 separate unit in Rome called the Cuirassieri.

They are a part of the Carabinieri, the military police, and provide the President’s ceremonial bodyguard and wear a uniform not dissimilar to ours. The Regiment still has its height bar in place and to join recruits have to be a minimum of6"2", and they are the butt of all jokes for their dim reputation. Obviously very different to us!

A B/lno'c Centauro' ~ The ltallah Scrmltar

Household Cavalry News 68

Household Cavalry News

69

An interesting statistic: the Italian army is 4x larger than our own ~ however we spend 4x more on ours. Italian soldiers are conscripts and serve for nine months.

Every three months there is a new intake and the training has to start again. Obvi— ously, it is difficult to achieve a high standard in such a short time and in many respects they appreciated our modus operandi. As more demands are made on the Italians to take on more UN roles, such as Somalia and the ongoing Bosnian mission, they take their professionalism very seriously and great changes towards a professional army are in the offing.

One serious problem remains - pay. An Italian soldier receives 5000 Lira a day. This equates to roughly £2 l Not even enough to buy a cappuccino in Via Veneto. Obviously the change to a professional basis will require an urgent review of pay.

Four very happy months passed in Rome and I was made very welcome by Colonel Fadda and his officers.

Amongst all the green work. I still found time to explore the attractions Rorne had to offer, drink very good cof— fee, try out chat up lines on very beautiful, sophisticated and totally uninterested Italian girls and ride (horses).

The Italian Cavalry School has an equine centre, only 5 minutes from the

barracks, which comprises a racecourse, show —jumping arena and polo pitches; all of which I was able to make great use of.

Bidding farewell to Rome, I moved to

I help?” To which he looked me in the eye and replied “ I am the Commandant here. and more to the point can I help you?" He never let me forget this great Rodway-open-mouth-and~enter-footism, but was an immaculate host.

the beautiful, Etruscan hill capital of Perugia in Umbria. Umbria is in the centre of Italy and the site of such devastating earthquakes in August. Luckily I took my photographs in July! I was now to teach at the Italian Language School.

This is located in a beautiful 13th century convent, originally built for the noble young ladies of Perugia to edify their spiritual life. It was eventually closed down because of a too riotous and lusty

way of life! Now I was to walk its Cloisters decorated with 13th century frescoes, pointing out the finer details up close to various Italian, Danish and Swedish nationaIs I met.

The school is run by a brilliant man called General Graziani. He speaks fluent French, Danish, German and English — with a Tennessee twang. On my first day, a Sunday, I saw a man in shorts smoking a pipe and talking in this Tennessee twang. I thought “How ghast» lyl Some American tourist has strolled in uninvited.

Better get rid of him sharpish”. So I wandered over and said “Excuse me sir, but who are you and can

Four months whizzed by, with more experiences and friendships made than I can possibly recount in one article: from skiing in mountains one hour from Rome, to helping direct a Shakespeare play in English at the University of Perugia, as well as telling unruly colonels and generals to shut up and behave in my English lessons.

But, to conclude, I would thoroughly recommend the Army Scholarship Language Scheme to any young officer. With the option of going to countries such as Italy, Spain and Egypt, it is an opportunity not to be missed. A special thanks to Brigadier Anderson and all the staff at the

Embassy, Colonel Fadda and the officers of the Lancieri di Montebello, General Graziani and the staff of the language school and my special friends Lieutenants Francesco Gratton, Generoso Rocca and Pietro Salvatore. Now at Knightsbridge with the largest language school in London at 106 Piccadilly, I can barely wait to “Scambiare la lingual”.

The first week was spent taking over from Capt R R Philipson-Stow, in the One Troop Leaders slot.

We then deployed to Firing Camp in a rather wind swept Castlemartin Ranges - a far flung corner, it seemed, from the pleas— antries that I had experienced earlier in the Summer with the QOY Before we could deploy to Castlemartin the possibility of going to Zaire was on the cards for almost two weeks and the G3 briefings and GPMG drill often went on into the night; this was a slight culture shock. Yet somehow it drew quickly into context the wide arm and infinite flexibility of the HCR and the whole JRDF commitment.

After the high spirits in the Mess over Christmas it was time to sort out Arctic Kit, a rather large Naval Kit Bag was carted off to all four corners of Combermere collecting equipment. How innocent we were. The Marines were intent on immersing us in all their idiosyncrasies, lots of cold water and a fair amount of snow. Our boys rose to the occasion and fought off all attempts to alter the HCR mindset.

The thought Police would not rule the day.

However, neither the Royal Marines nor The Blues and Royals were able to alter the extreme weather conditions. Once or twice I felt like the ‘Lawyer on Holiday’ and suffered the ‘exploding Bergen syndrome’, having left my nanny behind. The best bit was working with the Dutch, who in their haste to slow everything down, gave us the opportunity to take in the breathtak— ing Norwegian Fjords.

Having thawed out, I was then given GW Troop and the quick romp through the inside ofa Striker with two ofthe key players to help me along, LCoH Pass and Tpr Cane. With best wishes from them and lots of ‘tips from the top’ from the Mess I joined the second of the Troop Leaders courses in Warminster. After a further six weeks of the Armoured Recce tactics, with the support ofB Squadron’s merry warriors, we all completed the course successfully, with one or two of The Blue and Royal Officers; Mssrs Stucley, 0. Bedford and Bellman, who also passed, despite being double hatted as racing correspondents and gurus at a number of weekend race meets.

Almost immediately afterwards I returned to complete a shortened version of the pre—Bosnia package on Salisbury Plain. The reality ofactually going to Bosnia hit home suddenly. The vague thoughts that I had whilst on exercise in Northumberland- tearing around the countryside and being ambushed by random Geordies stealing jam rolls— was not altogether different from the ‘Battle of the Buses’, and being over run by children and teddies and a severe shortage of chocolate. Spending time out on patrol in the dramatic Bosnian countryside, being ambushed by my own troop and doing random and exciting things each day, will not be erased for many

years.

Finishing the deployment and writing this piece for the Regimental Journal, I am struck not just by how many differ— ent things I have been lucky enough to do, but also by how busy the Regiment is. I will have to retire early and continue to soldier as a Yeomanry Officer, but will not forget a fabulous and exciting year. The Mess in Windsor is now ever more inviting, as the Bosnian Winter descends.

James Cape] welcomes

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The Queen’s Own Yeomary had actually prepared me rather well for many of the situations, and rather more for the characters I would meet in D Sqn, The Blues and Royals. Never was there a dull

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Household Cavalry News

70

Household Cavalry News

Exercise Zulu Cockney - South Africa

Exercise Maple Leaf (x)

by Cornet 1A5. Bellman, RHG/D

Spruce Meadows - Calgary 1997

hile in Bosnia I heard of a signal

by Captain WBartle—jones RHG/D

buzzing its way round the Wood Factory, asking for 2 UEL qualified

In early September the Regiment sent six deserving members on the annual exercise to Spruce Meadows, Calgary, Canada. Leaving London accompanied by six members from the Kings Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, we travelled through the endless rows of barriers placed for the funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales. As you can imagine emotions were mixed, the silence on the bus expressed the feelings of all.

guides to assist on a 3 week expedition in

South Africa with the Coldstream Guards.

Needless to say I made a serious effort to offer my services to the expedition after convincing the Squadron leader it was an excellent idea, of his of course, to let me

go. On the 12 October 1997 I turned up at Chelsea Barracks to meet the expedition, of which the Coldstream Guards element had only just returned from 6 weeks exercise in Belize, very tired and very tanned.

The next day we intrepid explorers were on our way to darkest Africa. During the journey the in— flight movie decided to die on us, forcing the air hostesses and drinks trolley to work overtime in order to quell the restless expedition members.

Our first stop was Cape Town where we stayed with 9 South African Infantry Battalion. The town proved a suitable setting for the start of the expedition with Table mountain acting as a spectacular backdrop and the Atlantic and Indi-

an Oceans meeting close by. Our first expedition effort was to climb Table Mountain which, when we reached the top, seemed to have a formidable weath—

er pattern all of its own.

We then moved north through the fertile wine region of Stellenbosch (home of KWV) in our spectacular grand tour bus, and then on to the Orange River, which acts as a natural border between South

Africa and Namibia. Here we ventured out along the Orange River in fifteen 2man kayaks complete with supplies.

The Orange river is flanked on either side by an impressive range of mountains. It proved a challenging experience as we passed through its rapids and torrents, occasionally watching supplies float past our kayak as ramming and gen— eral sabotaging became a regular pastime

En Masse rrver assault on the Orange R/ver ,. Sout‘n Afrrcar’Nam/b/a

tered other river dwellers once. The soli— tude was quite something.

smith, Islandwana and Rourkes Drift, of which the latter is essential visiting.

Our guides proved equally interesting, one of whom was a former South African Army Officer, who had spent most of his career crossing the border to raid guer— rilla camps.

The final phase was spent recovering in the surf and beach resort of Durban, where again the Coldstream Guardsmen proved excellent hosts. Here both the highs and lows of South Africa can be enjoyed.

One memorable night was spent in the Durban Club where the waiters seem older than the 200 old year building itself and almost as musty; downtown seems to have scenes which would widen even the most worldly eyes,

From here we moved on in our Magical Tour Bus (now beginning to smell) to Pretoria and Johannesburg where we met up with the Household Division Association, who held an excellent cock— tail party. The younger members then educated us on Johannesburg nightlife.

On to the Northern Province and Phallaborwa near the Kruger National Park, home of South Africa’s big game and 7 South African Infantry Regiment, who proved excellent hosts. During our two days here we managed to see most of South Africa’s big game and several kills.

The next stage was on to the Natal Midlands and the Drakensberg Mountains where we were to climb Giants Castle.

The mountains formed a spectacular backdrop to the trek, but the trip was cut short by a rather spectacular fire, which began to sweep through several re— entrants forcing our intrepid party off the mountain and back down to base

camp.

evening tribal gathering, the guardsmen would display their interesting vocal range and grasp of the English language!

been teaching at Staff College out there.

Throughout the 5 days we only encoun-

Here we visited the Battlefields of Lady-

river. Evenings were spent camping on the riverbanks where, during the

HOUSEHOLD

CAVALRY MOUNTED :zl‘fvw. numb"; '

“ La""‘ttmiiul

KwaZulu Natal and Ladysmith was our next move where we were hosted by 5 South African Infantry Battalion, whose Officers Mess members had fond memo— ries of the Silver Stick from when he had

on the more peaceful stretches of the

VA L\F

Heathrow saw our flight over-booked, and we were forced to take a flight to Toronto where we would catch a connec— tion onto Calgary, with an added five hour delay. We were compensated with complementary drinks for the duration of the flight, only fifteen hours! On arrival we were met by Bob Wise (Director of Special Events), Kate Bemish (Assistant Event Co«Ordinator) and Karen Mast (Riding Mistress). They were to be our guides and entertainers for the forthcoming show. Our accommodation turned out to be a deserted army barracks that was up for sale, just outside central Calgary, which proved more than adequate.

as Guardsman and Officers soon found.

South Africa is still a fascinating coun— try, still emerging from its recent changes. The country is still rich in his— tory and energy and even more so than ever it is still a country worth visiting.

C/a/m/ng Stake in the Oakensberg Mountams. S Afr/ca

On touring the Spruce Meadows show ground one is amazed by the size, beauty and professionalism that it promotes.

With three arenas, each with their own collecting ring and warm up area and a vast equestrian fair selling everything from wicker donkeys to indoor riding schools, visitors had much to see. Those were only the main attractions, with Capt W Bart/erJones RHG/D and LCp/ Wood doing a colour guard at Spruce Meadows.

fl.

.

aunt-n

Top oil/ing. but no! yet in fights. .LCpI Nurla/ LG and LCoH Scove/l RHGr’D Fee! stil/ firmly on me ground.

L [o R Tpr Stockil/ LG, Lt W Barr/e Jones RHG/D, LCoH Hackman RHG/D, LCp/ Wood RHG/D and CoH Gaodwrn RHGrD

promotional tents from many different countries selling precious jewellery to Germany Bratwurst sausage and CoH Goodwin’s RHG/D personal favourites such as Dutch vodka, French dentures and American staircase lifts.

Our horses were fitted with State Kit and ridden under the expert (half closed) eyes ofLCoH Hackman RHG/D. Although a light brown in colour and almost uncontrollable they looked the part once mounted by Household Cavalrymen as one would expect. After each class we would escort the winners and runners—up into the arena and then perform a Musical Ride past the relevant sponsor. This proved more than entertaining for both the crowd and ourselves, as bands, flags and South American stallions broke into full swing. We also performed standing colour guards for sponsors much like that of the boxman at Horse Guards.

R and R was spent in Banff, Alberta and Golden, British Columbia where the generous donations from the Commanding Officer’s, Adventure Training Fund and the Southerns’ provided the Troops with two days white water rafting, a 4x4 day Rocky mountain extravaganza and a visit to the Banff Hat Springs. Calgary night life was certainly enjoyed to the full, where we met the Canadian version of the Spice Girls.

The exercise was fantastically hosted by the Spruce Meadows team, special thanks from Cell Goodwin RHG/D,

LCoH Hackman RHG/D, LCpl Wood RHG/D, Tprs Stockill LG and Benfield LG and Captain W Bartle—Jones RHG/D go to Marg and Ron Southern, Bob Wise, Kate Bemish, Karen Mast, Randy Fedorack and the Canadian Spice Girls for a wonderful two weeks.

Off-road Quad B/kmg in Brit‘s/i Columbia.

a,

The mini Olympics were attended by all competitors and special event perform—

ers of which we were a part. Unfortunately our hand to eye co-ordination had been seriously affected by the pre tournament drinks so relegating us to eighth, one above the Kings Troop. All were presented with tournament jackets and caps, and we presented a mounted breast cypher from a goldcoat to the delighted event organisers Marg and Ron Southern. The end of the show party was held in the Ranchmans Club in central Calgary, and attended by almost all.

Household Cavalry News 72

Household Cavalry News

73

simulator took a knocking when we demonstrated our gunnery skills and the tank park stood in awe of the English

Exercise Autumn Tango

performing neutral turns.

Captain C E O Allerton LG The following day back in Buenos Aires we found ourselves invited to watch a he United Kingdom and Argen« tinean Military Contacts Pro— gramme was set up in 1993 to help foster better relations between the two coun— tries after the Falkland Island Conflict.

The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment had hosted such a visit in November 1995. In September 1997 it was our turn to visit them.

parade celebrating the l401h Anniver— sary of the Regiment De Infanteria L Partricios. The march past, in front of President Menem, included parties from all the South American countries. The President was not present for the lunch party after the parade. However, we were introduced to the Second in Command of the Army, General Maximo R Groba, who told us of his concern for the Chilean Army contingent who, during a rowdy party the year before, had lost their national flag and had returned home in disgrace. The Commanding Officer ofthe Partricios had the far from delicate duty of cutting the anniversary cake. The sabre he used was wheeled from above his head, causing the supporting table to look decidedly unhappy when the blow landed.

As for why Captain H F Whitbread,

RHG/D and myself were chosen, I would like to say it was down to our extensive knowledge of Latin American custom and our mastery of the Spanish language. If the truth be known however, it may have been down to good luck and being at the right place at the right time. Selection over, we were informed that we would be staying in Argentina for twelve days as the guests of “Los Grenaderos,” a cavalry regiment with a ceremonial role similar to our own at

HCMR.

Our tour would also include

visits to other regiments in and around the capital.

After an uneventful 16 hour flight from

London we arrived at Buenos Aires International Airport to be met by a small entourage consisting of Colonel H P D Massey late RHG/D and two Argentine Officers from The Regiment of

Grenaderos. Colonel Massey, who had only recently taken over as the Military Attache, gave us some useful words of advice before rushing off to some press— ing meeting, leaving us to get on with improving international relations.

One of the two Argentine officers was Captain Hernando Fredes, whose face dropped as soon as he realised that Captain Whitbread and I had learnt our Spanish on the flight over. However our guide, though initially daunted by his task, soon perked up when he realised that his English was not that bad and our mime was at least amusing.

At the

dards, had an extremely bushy moustache, calmly unloaded a magazine from his pistol at what appeared to be the driver of a passing moped. This target practice or revenge, whatever it was, paid scant regard to the passers by in the butts! When the lights eventually turned green, despite the flight instinct seen in most pedestrians, I was bemused to see how slowly all us “car— dwellers” moved on. In fact, on reflection, this was to be the only time we would witness deference to the highway code during our stay.

Having arrived on a weekend, our hosts decided the following morning that we should go on a tour of the city. I shall not rattle on any more about Argentine drivers; suffice to say they have a rigor ous style which would make a hardened London driver look sedate. Hernando “Mansell” Fredes was no exception.

After we had got over the initial shock we learnt to laugh and even to joke.

Humour is, of course, the natural defence mechanism we all use to deal with raw fear.

Our journey from the airport to the reg-

iment was far from uneventful and was to prove a useful introduction to driving in Buenos Aires. At one particular set of traffic lights we were witness to what can only be described as a zealous case

of “road rage” by the driver of the car adjacent to us. The gentleman concerned who, even by Argentine stan-

Our tour would take us to the Latin Quarter, the home of Tango in Buenos Aires. Street theatre, dance and market stalls lent to the authentic experience.

Tango, which some say is going through a youth revival in Argentina, is an acquired taste. When youth performs, it can be quite appealing.

On the Monday morning we met Colonel Reimundes, the Commanding Officer of the Grenaderos, who explained that they were the only purely ceremonial regiment in Argentina, with a strength similar to that of our mount— ed regiment in London. Their ceremo— nial role differs from ours most notably in that their day-to-day role is a purely dismounted one, guarding the Presiden— tial Palace. In the mounted role the Regiment is employed on state visits and Presidential escorts, the most important being The State Opening of Parliament on the 4 March every year.

On the Commanding Officer’s recommendation we spent the rest of the day on a tour of the Congress building. By chance we bumped into the head of security who took it upon himself to give us an in depth behind-the—scenes tour. This included a detailed account of his role and exact proximity to the President when he addressed Congress.

The following day we travelled some sixty kilometres out of Buenos Aires to visit the Armoured School at The 8th Cavalry Regiment in Magdeleno. Here the majority ofthe Argentine Armoured Corps is trained in gunnery and D&M before deployment around the country.

The barracks had a distinctly armoured school feel about it, though perhaps there was a little less shouting than might have been witnessed on an average day at Lulworth. The Sp 105mm

Our hosts, keen for us to see as much of Argentina as possible, changed the orig— inal programme and arranged for us to visit the 4th Cavalry Regiment based in San Martin De Los Andes. This would involve a one and a half hour flight west into the heart of the Andes. The 4th Cavalry has the task of patrolling vari— ous crossing points through the Andes on the Chilean Border.

Their distinction lies in the fact that alongside the use of the light tanks, jeeps and motorbikes, they had a fully operational mounted squadron.

The Andes, not surprisingly, has a very Alpine feel about it and the buildings and the layout of towns reflected this influence. The Barracks of the 4th Cav— alry regiment were no exception; indeed

Our Guide. the author with Cece/Ia, Number 9 wrtr‘i Captain Whitbread RHG/D

ble routes. During the summer months, when grass was readily available for the horses, soldiers would be rationed for about five days, with resupply being mainly for the men. However, during the winter resupply had to be carefully thought through if a patrol was to cover any reasonable distance. Patrols varied in size, though we were informed they usually consisted ofat least 8 horses. On larger patrols pack horses would also be tasked with the responsibility of carry— ing ammunition and SF machine Guns.

that wound their way up through the foothills. Luckily Cecilia and number 9 were seasoned professionals who would wisely stop at the slightest hint that we were going to unbalance them. In fact after nearly six hours in the saddle, which included a quick break for lunch, we were feeling pretty self-assured; con« fident enough to give our hosts elocu— tion lessons while descending ‘the hill’, a chorus of “The rain in Spain...” could be heard echoing through the Andes on

Our horses were no doubt carefully selected, mine was called Cecilia, which was a novelty because almost every other horse merely owned a number. Captain Whitbread rode number Nine.

My experience of riding horses along mountain paths is nonexistent. Initially I was a little worried, because the larger boned Cavalry blacks I am used to would, with the odd exception, have refused to walk along some of the two foot wide paths

To complete our visit our hosts arranged for us to have a morning skiing. Despite the snow not being at its prime, we had a wonderful time. In fact we skied until the early afternoon when sadly a light drizzle stopped play. Our last evening with the 4th Cavalry Regiment started with a gift exchanging session which then developed into a champagne bottle opening competition. The Argentine Cavalry favours a highly curved sabre,

our return.

O/d patrol meets new, Capt Whitbread obserwng

the Officers’ Mess could only be described as a large Ski Chalet. The officers of the regiment where utterly charming and were keen to get us to do as much as possible during our short stay. After a night out on the town is was clear that San Martin aspired to be the Verbier ofthe Andes — even though it was in the very last days ofthe ski season the town was humming. The next day

we had an early start. After meeting the Commanding Officer we discovered that he had arranged for us to go out on a small mounted patrol. The mounted squadron had some 100 horses in at any one time and another 200 roughed off locally. Mounted Patrols were mainly used to clear some ofthe more inaccessi—

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Household Cavalry News

75

which handles differently from our straighter heavier weapon. But Captain Whitbread and I adapted our technique accordingly and opened our bottles with, I hope, enough style to keep face.

The next morning, a little worse for wear, we travelled the six hours by road to Bariloche where, after a night’s

stopover, we would catch a flight back to Buenos Aires. Bariloche overlooks the crystal clear water of Lake Nahuel

Huapi and has a fantastic View of the Andes. In Argentina Bariloche is syn— onymous with chocolate, and on sampling it I would agree that it is extreme— ly good. I was amused when one proud

confectioner insisted that it was an Argentine who had invented fudge; he was surprised to hear that the Swiss

made chocolates as well l Bariloche is also the home of the Argentin Army’s Mountain Warfare School.

The Mess and surrounding buildings resembled ski chalets. Howev— er, the air of efficiency that flowed through the barracks also gave us a clear impression that, despite the congenial living quarters, the school took its training seriously. A Major Booth, an Argen— tine of English ancestry and proud of it,

talked to us about the school’s role. On one side they produced some very good

downhill skiers and on the other side the School trained the army to fight in Mountain and Antarctic conditions, the most prominent of their students being

On returning to Buenos Aires we found that Colonel Massey had invited us to dinner. The following day we had been invited to watch a polo match between a touring British Military team and the Argentin Army.

We met Colonel Massey at the Hotel he and his family had been staying in while a private resi— dence in Buenos Aires was sorted out.

Dinner would also be the inaugural

meeting ofthe newly formed Household Cavalry “Buenos Aires Club”. The Club consisted of The Colonel; David London, a former Life Guards Officer now working for the Foreign Office; Harry

Exchange Visit to the Garde Republicaine in Paris

By Captain R j’ C D Phelps LG Many people are unaware of the influence that the French cavalry have had on The Household Cavalry.

“Aiguilettes”, “cartouche”, “shabraque”, “cuirass” and “epaulette” reveal a will— ingness on our part to adopt the smarter

pieces of uniform which that nation has Whitbread and myself. Sadly the fifth

The outcome of 1982 aside, it was

member, Captain Andrew Fox-Pitt, who had come out with the polo team from Windsor, was unavailable. The meeting was chaired by Mrs Massey who made sure we did not just talk army.

explained to us by one embarrassed but

The polo match the next day was a close run thing, with the British taking an early

lead, although by the end of a frantic second chukka our hosts had notched up a two goal advantage from which we never really recovered from. In the end we were out done 6—5. That evening we were invited to drinks at the British Embassy.

There we were introduced to the Head of the Army, General Belza, as well as the charming General Groba, who was more than a little interested in what we had been up to. Captain Fredes, who was also in attendance, was clearly worried for his career and had to be assured that we had kept our report respectable.

the Cazadores or Commando troops.

When we pressed him on what the training involved he could only reply that they

As a British soldier visiting Argentina you cannot fail to draw attention to

spent a lot of time getting cold.

yourself.

The author on patrol with Ceci/ia.

because of the Falklands Conflict and the still contentious issue of the sovereignty of the Islands. Our deco— rous hosts naturally never broached the subject. However, outside formal conversation we endeavoured to probe for opinions. Those to whom we spoke had not fought in the war, but the turmoil that their country went through after the conflict made their views valid. The opinion that their armed forces had been beaten fair and square was nobly acknowledged in a “the best team...” kind of way.

Of course this is mainly

candid host that every Argentine is brought up to believe that the “Malv— inas” are both geographical and histori— cally part of Argentina and nothing in the short term would change this fact.

created, but the ideas for many of those were gained via booty from the battle-

field.

not be faulted.

Happily there is a more friendly influence which continues today through our affiliation with the Garde Republicaine in Paris. There are only three mounted ceremonial units left in Europe: our own, the Royal Guard in Madrid and that in Paris. The Garde Republicaine descend from the Garde Imperial of monarchist France and have changed little but in name since those times.

They are therefore the closest counterpart that The Household Cavalry has and our affiliation together is natural.

Captain Whitbread and I both agree that riding in the foot hills of the Andes was the highlight of our trip, but the genuine way in which we were looked after wherever we went will be the most lasting impression we have of Argentina.

The Garde Republicaine is now part of the Gendarmerie, meaning that its members are policemen rather than soldiers. As with The Household Cavalry, people move between operational and ceremonial duties, but there is still a

To summarise; it may be presumptuous to remark on the distinctly British influence, which we sensed in the regiments we visited. It could just be the similarity in which the Argentine adhere to tra— dition and values they hold that gave us this impression. What was quite appar— ent, however, is that, as hosts, they can—

strong sense of pride in being part of the Garde. The components of the Garde are a mounted regiment and two infantry battalions, and thus it equates to The Household Division. It is there— fore one of the roles of the Gendarmerie to preserve the historic traditions ofmil— itary ceremonial in Paris via the Garde.

They are fortunate in that they are fullly manned, inhabit a series of beautiful and historic barracks in the centre of Paris and around the outskirts, together

with having a very high standard ofanimal in their 500 horses.

At Hyde Park Barracks, we had acted as host to two members of the Regiment of Cavalry from Paris and they became our hosts when I went over for four days with CoH Moore, RHG/D, in the second Week of November. We were accommo— dated in a comfortable hotel owned by the Gendarmerie near Saint Germain des Pres and a driver put at our disposal.

The focus of our visit was the Armistice Day parade at the Arc de Triomphe on 11 November. It was a substantial and

Capt RJCD Phelps LG and CoH Moore PHG/D with the Commandant and Headauartels Officers at the display of the SpeCIa/ Format/on by the Garde Republicaine.

moving parade. The Champs Elysees was clear through its entire length, affording a magnificent setting for the Cavalry Regiment’s walk up. They had about 200 horses on parade, with their mounted band, the only other one in the world. As with our own uniform, theirs has changed little since the second part of the last century: black unjacked boots, white breeches, blue coatees, no cuirass but a brass helmet with plume and long tail (criniere) down the back.

It seemed bizarre but heartening to me that a socialist republic should continue such splendour. The more I saw of the Garde Republicaine over those days, the more it became clear that funding, manning, popularity and political support were not amongst their problems.

The Regiment of Cavalry lived in style.

Their quality of life was high: three course lunches with wine as standard and some very fine horses. The stan~ dard of equitation was impressive, as revealed by a series of “special formations” which we attended. These are put on once a month in the main barracks in the presence of the General and Commanding Officer. They are displays in period costume from the 17th Century to the present day involving foot drill, music, dressage, motorbikes and the carousel (a larger version of our musical ride). Our host, Colonel le Baron de la Porte du Theuill, is the world military riding champion and therefore was not

short in the credibility stakes. Many of the horses were of exceptional quality.

This lovely mid 19th Century headquar— ters barracks was in the solemn and impressive “empire” style, with several floors of accommodation above the sta— bles in the traditional manner and an enormous indoor riding school.

Inevitably Dressage was generally the discipline in which they excelled and many of their best horses had a jigsaw of plaques and badges around their boxes revealing their achievements. I met one eight year old chestnut which was amongst the best, but was so highly strung that she could not relax or be content in her box without a domestic rabbit in there also. The rabbit rested languidly in the corner ofthe stable and both seemed very content.

Our visit did not just comprise being spectators at parades and displays, participators in mammoth lunches and dinners and visitors to the night clubs of Paris. We went out riding twice, both times in two large forests on either side of the city. The first time was in the Bois de Vincennes, a popular place for Parisian recreation of both the legal and less legal varieties. Interestingly, the police and cavalry roles of the Garde combine here as the patrols are carried out on horseback. It is by far the most practical way to police the large ram— bling area of the forest which counts drugs dealers and prostitutes as its more

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Household Cavalry News

77

The Special Commisioning Course Namibia 1997

by Captain G R Breilmeyer, The Blues and Royals

Capt PJCD Phelps LG and CoH Moore RHGD on the dais at the Armistice Day Ceremony at The Arc oe Tr/omphe.

Capt RJCD Phelps LG and CoH Moore RHG/D share a joke after me Afm/SI/CS Day Parade In Paris.

habitual users. The second time we went riding was further outside Paris in the area surrounding the former royal hunting lodge at Saint Germain. The Cavalry Regiment have their remount barracks there and they enjoy an enormous area of forest, turf and tracks in which they are able to test themselves and their horses. We had a long ride of about two and a half hours on two spir~ ited horses who seemed little interested in the not very considerable amount of sleep that we had spent during the pre— ceding night when the appeal of our beds had been matched against the night clubs of the Champs Elysees. On our return we had yet another magnifi-

cent lunch with the customary variety of wines and rich food. This was delightful and we certainly had an appetite. However when we went to dinner at the house of one of our hosts that evening (the other had had us to his house the night before) and we had course after course of truly indulgent food, the weariness of the day began to descend

upon us.

The visit to the Garde Republicaine which CoH Moore RHG/D and I enjoyed was a model of hospitality and pleasure. It would not have been possi— ble for us to have been better treated or to have enjoyed ourselves more. I left

with a profound respect for the way in which the Garde worked and their high standards of horsemanship and sense of tradition. They have not only survived, but are thriving in a situation where some might have predicted demise.

There is also a terrific sense of fun and emphasis on enjoyment which is captivating.

Our two hosts, Lieutenant Soulabail and Adjutant Long, thorough— ly enjoyed their time at Hyde Park Barracks which is a relief when one thinks of the faultless time that they gave us.

What better link could there be than when natural affiliation translates to perfect hospitality.

Awards and Commendations for 1997 Colonel PSWF Falkner (LG) Captain S J Rhodes Stampa (LG) Captain JAM Corse (RHG/D) Lieutenant CP MacDonald (LG) SCpl Flynn D (LG) CoH Kirkpatrick I (RHG/D) Sgt Street MD (AGC(SPS))

OBE GOC’s Commendation MND(SW) GOC’s Commendation MND(SW) Queens Commendation for Valuable Service Joint Commanders Commendation, Bosnia MBE GOC’S Commendation Hong Kong

OOM! The South West African predawn half—light erupted with the sound of assorted explosives, small arms fire and flame. In extended line a score of grinning, tiger striped spectres hurled themselves from the safety of a low embankment towards their burning objective. Breaking into fire teams they closed in. AK 47 assault rifles enthusiastically raked the position, as smoke and illumination grenades added to the increasing mayhem.

Enemy troops screamed dramatically and fled into the path of the cut—offs fire.

Suddenly through the apocalyptic chaos, with alarming velocity, hurtled none other than Major Hawala in a small white Nis— san Micra. Still dazed from a hearty evening in Windhoek, the Osona Base Commander perceived Special Commissioning Course l/97s Exercise First Foray final attack to be a full scale assault on his Base and charged to the rescue. Officer Cadets scattered from the path of the oncoming vehicle and in startled amazement the attack ground to a halt. In a haze of perplexed oblivion the gallant Major raced onward towards the rising dawn.

On 26 May 1997 I arrived at RMA Sand— hurst for a week of briefings and warm— up training with the 6 man Short Term Training Team destined for Namibia.

Our mission was to run the first Officer Commissioning Course for the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) since their Independence in 1990 and in so doing, also advise the NDF instructors who were to take the helm for the next course. The team was a well balanced cavalry/infantry mix consisting of a Major, two Captains, a WOZ (Course RSM), a Staff Sergeant and Colour Sergeant.

A short introduction to the recent history of Namibia will help to explain our involvement with this stunning and extraordinary African country. After the lst World War Germany was required to renounce its colonial claims in German South West Africa and South Africa was granted a mandate to administer the country. Following WWII South Africa decided to annex South West Africa as its own province. The International

Court of Justice determined that South Africa had overstepped its boundaries and in 1956 the UN decided South African control must be terminated. As South Africa tightened its grip, growing discontent amongst the African people of Namibia led to the formation of the South West African Peoples Organisa— tion (SWAPO). A guerrilla campaign began in 1966 and in 1972 the UN declared SWAPO the legitimate representative of the Namibian people. The conflict continued until 1989, when an agreement was reached and South African troops withdrew. SWAPO was elected into power and Namibian Independence granted in 1990.

Following independence, with Namibia now a part of the Commonwealth, a large British Military Advisory and Training Team (BMATT) was deployed to assist with the establishment of and provide initial training for the NDF, a tricky task which involved combining combatants from the two warring sides into one new force. This now stands at 5 infantry battalions, with some limited artillery, engineer and logistical support.

Since then, Britain has provided a series of training teams to fulfill a variety of tasks. Having had little fresh blood in the officer corps after seven years of existence, the need for young NDF offi— cers became a priority. So it was with this background that our team was formed and I was launched into a most rewarding and entertaining 7 months.

On arrival at Windhoek Airport, we were met by our Namibian ‘liaison’ officer for the tour, whose liaison duties appeared to terminate the following day.

Having escorted us to Osona Base, our new home 70km north of Windhoek, he vanished and was never seen again.

We were then left in the hands of the infamous Major Hawala (the Base Commander) and introduced to our first mouth-watering encounter with Namibian Army food. The staple diet is mealie meal porridge or rice and a lump of unidentifiable gristle, generously doused in a water ‘soup’. Initially Cape chicken was on the menu; an unfortunate bird which appeared to have been

starved to death prior to arrival in Namibia!

Osona Base is a subsidiary of the Mili— tary School Okahandja (MSO).

‘Centre of Excellence’, which runs all training courses for the NDF. Set 10km south of Okahandja (the nearest town) and a little like something out of ‘The Wild Geese’, it consists of some basic accommodation and classrooms looking onto a large dirt drill square. It is an ideal location for training, in an attractive, though arid area and used to be a renowned South African recruit training camp. The surrounding bush is classically African; a mixture of dry grass, evil thorn bushes and small trees, with a range of rocky hills to the

back of the base.

The training area

supports a reasonable amounted of wildlife and I would often bump into warthog, kudu, mountain zebra, baboons and the odd bat—cared fox whilst our running. An interesting change from Windsor Great Park!

We began with a much needed two week preparation period, prior to the arrival of our 48 potential officers. Facilities were limited, so a degree of ingenuity and resourcefulness was immediately required. The course was to be split into two main parts; an Officer Selec— tion Course lasting five weeks, followed by the Commissioning Course itself. The cadets were divided into two platoons commanded by Captain Gray-Cheape (Black Watch) and I. Understudying and aiding us, we had a staff of NDF officers and SNCOs, with varying degrees of knowledge, enthusiasm and experience. All appeared to share a similar passion for lurking under shady trees.

The potential officers put at our mercy had participated in recruit training for 1000 NDF entrants the previous year.

Expecting them to be the top 5%, we soon discovered their selection to be somewhat random, the list never having made it to the MOD! One individual had even been back termed during his training. Our own Officer Selection Course therefore proved vital in weeding out those with limited military apti-

Household Cavalry News 78

Household Cavalry News

79

south is Fish River Canyon; Namibia’s answer to the Grand Canyon. In the north the famous desert adapted ele-

phants can be found in Damaraland

One P/atoon on the final exerctse.

and Etosha Pan Game Reserve boasts one of the highest concentrations of game in Africa. Perhaps the most spectacular region is the Namib Desert, with its sea of huge orange dunes, stretching lSOkm inland from the coast. Where the desert merges with

the grass plains and mountains of the Naukluft, the land takes on an almost mystical appearance. In short, it’s a

fabulous and fascinating place to travel.

An Open Day was held towards the end of the course, in order to encourage

entrants from civilian life to apply for the next intake.

This involved a drill

display, platoon attack demonstration, a complete Namibian Air Wing fly by (2 helicopters and a Cessna!) and several static stands. I ran a command task stand and painted the oil drum islands an immaculate blue-red-blue. Civilians were encouraged to participate with some immensely entertaining results, before being demonstrated the DS solution by a well rehearsed team of cadets The Commissioning Course ended on 13 December with a Pass Out at Osona Base. President Nujoma took the salute and presented the best cadet with the President’s Sword, donated by the British Government. 35 Officer Cadets received their Commissions to face a challenging future, commanding old soldiers with experience of the pre-inde-

pendence conflict.

They have the advantage ofa thorough and disciplined training, from a team which injected enormous enthusiasm and energy into an outstanding job. Overall our work was regarded as a huge success. In 1998 the NDF will run their own course with a proportion of civilian entrants and lasting 11 months. I will cherish many memories of my time in Namibia, which was without doubt the most enjoyable, rewarding and fulfilling experience of my 8 year Short Service Commission.

But one parting memory stands out above the rest . . . the look of absolute astonished delight on the beaming face of Lucia, our enormous Herero cleaning lady, when I presented her with my duvet on the final day of the tour!

‘»

Open Day Command Task Demonstrat/on.

tude and leadership qualities. A cross between RCB, Basic Training and Rowallan Company, it concentrated on revising the cadets in basic skills, testing their leadership potential and providing a basis knowledge for the Commissioning Course to follow.

Having been informed that they were all trained in map reading and navigation, only 6 hours of revision were pro— grammed into the syllabus. We soon

discovered they had been taught in classes of 100 by one NDF instructor!

Eventually after 26 hours of lessons in the evenings and at weekends, the message began to sink in. For one or two, even the metric system proved an almost insurmountable hurdle. The prospect of teaching the estimate and orders process was daunting to say the least!

Fitness was high on the agenda and only

limited by our imagination.

Osona’s

very own ‘Hungry Hill’ featured regularly in PT sessions, a path having been diligently cleared to the summit by the cadets.

Dramatically embellished to

‘Hungry Lion Mountain’, it had a last» ing impact on their morale and fitness.

The author

extremely keen to succeed. They pos— sessed sound personalities and a good sense of humour. Organisational skill and initiative was lacking, but improved as the course progressed. By the end of the Officer Selection phase 40 cadets were selected to go forward to the Com— missioning Course.

field firing areas with generous arcs.

Having already had 6 negligent discharges, our 2 day live firing package was tense, but thankfully shortened by a dramatic bush fire on the first day!

In early August, after a short period of leave, the Special Commissioning

tric Station on the border with Angola,

Course began.

Although much con—

densed, it was designed along similar lines to the RMA Sandhurst course, concentrating heavily on counter insurgen— cy skills. Each subject was introduced with a series of central lectures, followed by classroom platoon seminars to explain in slow time what had been taught. This gave the cadets plenty of opportunity to ask all manner ofrandom and extraordinary questions.

Being extremely inquisitive, they frequently wanted to know exactly what to do in any given situation. For example, ‘Captain, what would you do if you were forming up for an attack and suddenly saw two hungry lions stalking you?”.

These great imaginative gems kept us on our toes throughout the course.

Quotes spring to mind such as, ‘Captain, why you make us run up so many

hills?!” and following a CFT, ‘Captain, where did you learn to walk so fast?!’, but as a rule their fitness was outstanding.

General robustness and an almighty high pain threshold meant few

injuries and rapid recovery.

The majority were in their early twenties, spoke reasonable English (the offi— cial language in Namibia) and were

The Pres/dew presents OCdt Ngold with the PreSIdent‘s Sword, for the Best Cadet.

Each phase of training was followed by an exercise in the bush, concluding with a ten day counter insurgency exercise at the end of the course. With the excep— tion of the endless thorn bushes, the Namibian bush is a pleasant place to operate. The dry heat is intense but not uncomfortable and it rains for only a few weeks each year (generally around December and January). The training area is enormous and includes several

To broaden the officer cadets horizons, trips were organised to the vast Rossing Uranium mine, the Ruacana Hydroelecthe Export Processing Zone in Walvis Bay and the MOD and Stock Exchange in Windhoek. A five day period was set aside for adventure training, a new concept for the NDF. Whilst half of the cadets completed a civilian static line parachuting course, the remainder went walking in the Waterberg Plateau Park,

or with myself in the Naukluft Mountains. This was a challenging hike completing the first half the Naukluft Trail, renowned as one ofthe most demanding and spectacular routes in Southern Africa. For the cadets, now extremely fit from countless march and shoots, stretcher races and steeplechases, it was a welcome holiday.

With two periods of leave built into the programme, there was time to travel the country and admire the great diversity of stunning scenery. Namibia has a tiny population for a country of its size and a modern, well developed infrastructure.

The tarmac and gravel roads are in excellent condition, making travel over the vast distances relatively fast and pleasurable. On Namibia’s western side, the Atlantic Ocean hammers into the desolate Skeleton Coast; an endless area of barren grey shingle. To the east is the rolling Kalahari Desert and in the far

Bosnian Elections

Order from chaos

by Lieutenant WP F Bye AGC (SP5) Squadron The Blues and Royals walked into a situation of complete disorder. The National Assembly had been dissolved a week prior to D Squadron’s takeover — (Judged as being an Illegal Act some weeks later). The local government elections had been scheduled for the middle of September, delayed by months from their original date. The Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, (OSCE, or Organisation for Spreading Confusion in Europe) was in charge of monitoring and administrating the Elections. The Local politicians were involved in a power struggle between Plasvic in Banja Luka and Krijnic (Milosovic) in Pale.

The Local Election Committees (LEC’s) seemed to be the only organisations who knew what they were doing.

stations, Helicopter Landing Sites and routes to and from the polling stations, and providing a secure storage space for all polling material and maintaining framework patrols within the Squadron Area of Operations.

SFOR was trying to keep as low a profile as possible while still keeping a grip on

The Squadron performed remarkably well given the circumstances. It crashed out with great regularity on a Sunday evening, returning to base for a small amount of maintenance on Fridays and Saturdays before starting the cycle

the overall situation.

As a result D

Squadron was liaising between the locals, OSCE, the national power strug»

gle and the SFOR participation.

Working with OSCE was an experience.

The personnel were from all walks of life, ranging from retired BBC camera— men to Dutch Olympic rowers. The grasp on how and what support D Squadron was able to provide was as varied as the people who worked for OSCE. It ranged from believing the Squadron could, and should, provide a communications network to rival ‘Cellnet’, to not wanting any help other than the supply of people to soak up abuse and supply 24 hour ration packs.

again. The search for the polling staD Squadron’s mission was to provide selective support, within capability, to the OSCE for the municipal Elections period, while continuing current operations in accordance with the Battle Group Operations Order, in order to assist in the fair and free elections with— in the Squadron’s Area of Operations (AO). This involved finding all polling

tions proved to be a useful self help guide to each troop’s AO. With a certain amount of debatable map reading from the author, the tasks were completed almost to schedule.

The BELUGA Group (Belgians, Lux— embourgers and Greeks) delivered the election material and the Squadron

,5,

.

.

Lt WPF Bye (AGO) searching for pol/mg stations.

Quartermaster Corporal’s department distributed it. The elections took place and most of the material returned to the Squadron.

The most complicated method of judging what type of vote an individual had, where they had to cast it and which Opstina they were voting for,

meant that three different return routes were used for the completed ballots.

Fortunately the final votes reached the Squadron secure storage area 20 hours after the polls closed. No counting had taken place but they had all been sorted into different groups.

At this point the Author made a sharp exit. The weather was cooling down for the start of the Winter and it was rumoured that there was a seat on a plane leaving for Egypt and a warmer climate in the near future.

Household Cavalry News 80

Household Cavalry News

81

The Household Cavalry Regiment Sports The Household Cavalry Ski Team 1997/8 Exercise Cockney Powderhound III

by Lieurenant 0 Bedford It was with high ambitions that this year’s squad departed for Verbier on 30 November 1997. Last season the team had had its greatest success to date, winning the Royal Armoured Corps (RAC) Championships, and coming second in the Divisional Championships; and therefore the aim for this season was twofold: to go one step further in attempting to gain a top three placing in the Army Winter Sports Association (AWSA) Alpine Finals, whilst develop— ing the new talent required to remain competitive in future years. After much debate the final squad contained three

L! O Bed/01d. Slalom, RAC Champions/ms. Verb/er 97/8

Officers and five OR’s — LI 0. Bedford (Team Capt), Capt A. Fox—Pitt, Ct D. Scott, LCpls Amos, Bassett, Beech, Tate, and Tpr Eastick (HCMR).

The House/told CavaJ/y Sk/ Team at the ASH/A Alp/me Fma/s. Serre Cbeva/Ier 97/8

The team arrived in Verbier, and quick— ly settled into its chalet in Pathiers, on the outskirts of Verbier. A lack of snow to begin with limited the range ofpistes we had available to train on. This meant that, whilst we were able too work on technique, there was little scope for some of the more adventurous activities.

By the end ofthe second week, however, with fitness improving and some fresh snow, the top groups took the opportu-

LI 0 Bedford 3 seconds before fa/l/ng m the AWSA Down/W Serre Chews/tar 97,8

“Eel :5" ~

nity to do some Ski Touring in the local area. This gave individuals the opportunity to learn some mountain survival techniques, including Avalanche Drills, whilst enjoying the fresh powder skiing.

The third week heralded a change of direction as pole training began in earnest.

This continued until New Year’s Eve and was conducted up at Savolyres, on a specially prepared, and cordoned off piste. The training cycle was organised around a seven—day pro— gramme, and ran from 0830—1600 Monday-Saturday with Sunday at one’s own disposal. It started with Giant Slalom (GS) Training, before moving onto the more technical Slalom (SI) and, where circumstances allowed, training races were held to prepare individuals for the arduous racing ahead.

eral strong teams: 4 AAC had the cur— rent Army Champion; and 2AAC had two current Army Team Members.

Whilst we could not compete on an individual basis, our strength lay in the depth of the squad. The A Team (Capt Fox-Pitt, LCpl Beech, LCpl Tate, and Lt Bedford) were all within the top 20, and started well winning the first two Team events, the GS and 81. A Third place in the Team Super Giant Slalom (SG) left the team with only a slender lead over 2AAC at the start ofthe Downhill (DH).

Unfortunately, a very fast run by Capt Cooper (2AAC), in which he beat the Army Champion, meant that the team lost the overall RAC Championship by a mere three seconds.

remaining five moved onto Serre Chevalier for the Land (UK) Championships.

With the Air Corps Regiments racing on another hill, the challenge this time came from the Queen’s Royal Hussars (QRH), the Army Champions. The first events were the Individual and Team GS, in which the QRH beat us comfortably into second place.

Taking a reserve soon proved to be wise after LCpl Beech was injured in a fall and subsequently missed four days skiing. The third race was the Individual and Team 81 combined, and proved to be our best in the season. With Captain Fox—Pitt, skiing extraordinarily well in his first season of racing, winning the Individual Gold and the rest of the team finishing within the top ten, the Champions were beaten for the only time throughout the season as we took the Gold. The team then went on to finish well, coming second in the SG and DH, giving them two Silvers in both the 3(UK) Div and Land (UK) combination.

Cap! Fox-Pm on (he G/anl Slalom at the 3(UK) [31v Championships. Serre Chevalter 976

At the end of the Divisionals, Ct Scott

had to return to Otterburn for GW firing, whilst the A Team went on to compete in the AWSA Alpine Finals, also in Serre Chevalier.

After several large snowfalls, totalling approximately 130 cm, the pistes were in excellent condi— tion and with blue skies abounding expectations were high for some good racing. With Capt Fox-Pitt and LCpls Beech and Tate all putting in solid per— formances, the team achieved its ulti— mate aim when it took the Bronze medal in the Team GS. Unfortunately, after this the team never lived up to its potential as a lack of experience and weariness took its toll, and individuals started to fall in races. The team went on to finish thirteenth in the 81, after the contraversial disqualification of LCpl Tate, fifth in the DH, and sixth in the SG. This left us in sixth overall at the end of the racing. These results, whilst not truly reflecting the strength of the team were

still the highest the team has ever achieved. The potential for next year was summed up when the QRH Team Captain, after his team had retained their title as Army Alpine Champions, tipped the HCR as possible Army Champions.

As usual, the success of a team is as much dependent on the level of support available to it from its parent regiment as it is on the skills of the individual.

This year both Regiments gave to the Ski Team unprecedented levels of sup— port. This was not only in the form of very generous donations by both PRIs, the HCCCF, and both SOTs but also in the availability of personnel and materiels; and it was this that ultimately decided whether or not we were to be successful, as we were this year.

Capt Foerttt does his lumps comse Verb/er sQ/le. DOWi’Wi/l Verb/er 97 8

we

Not surprisingly, the apres-ski was fairly lively with each Regiment holding a drinks party, as well as several dinner parties. There were also a number of extra—curricular activities organised ranging from an inter—Regimental Volleyball competition, won by us, through ice hockey, and onto a Carol service.

The B Team (Ct Scott, LCpl Bassett, LCpl Amos, and Tpr Eastick) was by far the strongest team in their competition, and it was no surprise when they won every event. Had they been allowed into the A Team competition, they would have finished 9th out of 14! Particular praise must go to Ct Scott, and LCpl Bassett both of whom skied very well, and could have competed well at the Army Finals.

Race week was quickly upon us, and this year the competition was particularly strong, with the Air Corps fielding sev-

The end of Verbier saw the return of LCpls Amos and Bassett, and Tpr East— ick to Regimental duty whilst the

\

Household Cavalry News 82

Household Cavalry News

83

Rugger

Cricket

by Captain N Sackett, RHG/D

By Lieutenant R Peasgood RHG/D

he Rugby has risen again as one of the major sports in the Regt. The season has begun very well, having played 7 games and won 6. At the time ofwriting we are in the semi—finals of the Cavalry Cup, LONDIST Cup and the

final of the Prince of Wales.

very eventful. Rush hour

he regimental team had one of the quietest years on record due to an amalgam of operational tours and regi— mental commitments. This meant that only one competitive match took place during the season and typically we were faced with the oldest enemy of all... The Mounted Regiment.

in Cairo makes London *' seem very very tame. The match was played on a mixture of sand and grass on the famous Victoria

,_

ground under floodlights, a first for most of the team.

The highlight of the year was whilst on Ex BRIGHT STAR 97, a game in Cairo was arranged against Cairo Ex Pats.

The game was very hard.

The Ex Pats team consist—

ed of very large AntipadiThe day started off fairly badly when the one and only bus seemed to be double

booked. This was resolved and with our intrepid driver Ahmed we set off. The first stop was a very dodgy backstreet, faces on the bus began to look worried and Ahmed brought us to his friends stable, from there we would be able to hire horses and camels to visit the pyramids.

After much haggling a good price was arranged and off we went, a cross between the magnificent 7 and Indiana Jones.

This finished with a visit to yet another friend to buy perfume, once again hag-

ans and South Africans, as , , well as Brits, proving to be V , very strong. As always the “ The Rugby Team In act/on.

HCR team gave a striking The season continues. Tpr Bullen has performance and managed a win 20—5. had a training session with Army U21, Both teams then retired to a small water— and a number of team players played for ing hole which comes under the AmeriSlough. can Embassy. The drinks flowed and we are glad to say we also won the third half.

The trip back? Well Ahmed, we believe, was the only one awake.

Capt N Sackett

made this the order of the day. Because most of the team were young?, our pre match CARBO food consisted of eating at Pizza Hut. On the first try we missed the restaurant, this was not a problem for Ahmed. With a bus full he reversed the wrong way down a four lane carriageway

SCpl Grantham

Lt R Peasgood SCpl Kingston

Lt 0 Bedford

SSgt Snell

CoH Smith

CoH Hodder

CoH Rees

CoH Howie

Sgt Bradbury

LCoH Hemming

LCoH Trinick LCoH Barratt

Sgt Street LCoH Clubley LCoH Smith

LCpl Davis

Tpr Bullen

Tpr Hooson-Owen

LCpl Greensmith Tpr Dibb

Tpr Spencer

Tpr Jones

Tpr Costain

Tpr Williams

Tpr Trencher

Tpr Lewis

to ensure we got to the restaurant.

The game was at Mardi, (the equivalent of Knightsbridge). The trip [here was

SCpl Shatliff

SSgt Ward CoH Wells

LCoH Anderton LCpl Saunders

Football

by Captain D Pickard, LG he disruption to the fixtures pro-

ever increasing amount of commit-

gramme at the end of last season

ments, have also been overcome by the

and the beginning of this was overcome by a new resolve to reform a strong squad. Anyone even remotely interested was encouraged to join up.

The response was excellent with the number of registered players increasing from 15 to 43.

The squad policy to give all players a

game on a regular basis has produced some interesting, not to mention frustrating results. Cancellations due to the

squad system

very good results. A couple worth men— tioning are the 4-2 wins over the Guards Depot and the Coldstream Guards.

A couple of interesting developments have arisen from the large squad system.

Firstly, the new bloods were shocked to discover the lack of resemblance between army and civilian football.

We have at present two corps players, CoH Paternotte and LCpl Lythe, with the prospect of two more in the near

Also the difference in the style of foot-

If we can complete our League Fixtures for the season we will surely be promoted to the First Division. We are currently Fourth with games in hand.

ball played by the old and bold compared to the present long ball game. The overall improvement in the squad skills has been good and we are seeing some

revenge next season.

The only other game of note was the annual grudge match between The Life Guards past and present and The Blues and Royals past and present, an event that always brings a healthy rivalry out in all competitors and spectators alike.

The Life Guards batted first under the guidance of team Captain M HoldenCraufurd and made excellent headway with a solid half century by Johnny Cooper. Ably supported by W02 Lana— han and with a late flourish by Lieutenant Colonel HS] Scott, The Life Guards finished with a massive total of 230. In reply The Blues and Royals were kept under the axe by WOZ Lanahan

who bowled marvellously -and as a result was unofficially voted man of the match— and were bowled out relatively quickly to the glee of The Life Guards who ran out victors by over 100 runs and with plenty of time to spare, the latter fact being the most important as it allowed the festivities to begin earlier than initially planned. The day was helped by a lack of rain and a healthy turnout of players and spectators of all age groups, the fixture looks set to

become a permanent one.

On a congratulatory note Lt L Brennan RHG/D and Lt R Peasgood LG were selected to represent the Army under— 255 during the season and at the InterService championships held this year at Portsmouth.

Riding the Cresta

The Rugby Squad 1996 - 97

gling and free drinks (non alcoholic)

LCpl Short LG bravely undertook the task of captaining the side in the most inclement conditions and after negotiation with his opposite number agreed to shorten the match to a 15 over free-forall. Having won the toss and elected to field the Regiment did well to contain Knightsbridge to 111 at the end of their 15 overs and confidence ran high in the friendly camp.

Unfortunately confidence ran a little too high and with 2 balls remaining and 13 more runs

required LCpl Short gracefully with« drew his men. A good day out—ifa little wet- was had by all and we await our

future.

by Captain AB Methven LG he most important thing initially about the Cresta is to find one’s boss in a moment of extreme weakness and persuade him that missing a whole week of paperwork in favour of attempting to break the occasional bone is actu~ ally character building and a worthy use of the army’s time. Having thus made this vital connection I made my way at the start of the Services’ training period to the charming Alpine village of St Moritz to try my hand at tobogganing.

house, changing room _ and storage hut. Junction and the bar of the Kulm Hotel are the spiri~

The Cresta was started over a hundred years ago by a few enthusiastic Englishmen in a small gully behind the Village Church. It ran down the run of a stream to the charming village of Celerina. St Moritz itself was perched on the south facing sunny mountain slopes at five and a half thousand feet. Today Celeri— na and Moritz Bad (in the valley by the lake) are just like any other ski resort but St Moritz Dorp still retains its tradi— tional charm as one of the first Swiss resorts (its altitude making the steep

I went under the misap— prehension that all riders were permanently terrified. This is not so. The main emotion is pure exhilaration. This is incidentally a very good hangover cure. Beginners only really fall out of Shuttlecock which is a soft landing in powder and straw. It is only by speaking to the more experienced riders that one hears of hard knocks at speed on the unforgiving upper banks and the resultant fear inspired and act of will required to continue striving for the most perfect line and hence the fastest time.

paths rather brisk work).

The run itself is about lZOOm long.

Beginners start two thirds of the way up at Junction, which includes the club-

tual homes of the St Moritz Tobogganing Club. The first language ofthe club is still English and the Committee has a fair splattering of addresses between the Highlands, London and Zurich.

Cap! AB Met/wen coming off Shuttlecock yet again

proud owner of a shuttlcock tie, having taken ten rides to learn the hard way that unless an effort is made to steer hard, rider and toboggan will always part company on this infamous bank.

This makes for exceptionally poor value for money at more than one pound per second. When even I manged to make it round, however, the finishing speed of 70 mph is its own reward.

I urge other members of The Regiment to make the effort to try their hands at

this addictively exciting sport.

I have to confess that I was the worst beginner of my intake and am now the

Household Cavalry News 84

Household Cavalry News

85

Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment Sport

A mixture of the old and new combined for a very successful season that was enjoyed by all. The final tally read played 8, won 7, lost 1. A team reached the final ofthe London District Cup and played 16 Regiment Royal Artillery.

The match was very close but 16 Regiment (heavily bolstered by attached personnel) won in the end with the GOC London District presenting the prizes.

by Major SH Cowan, RHG/D

has eluded the team.

At present there are five officers who regularly play in both domestic and mil— itary tournaments. Several others have been selected for military tours. Mai Cowen, Capt Fox Pitt and Lt Lewis have represented either the Army or Combined Services; Capt Fox Pitt touring Argentina with the Combined Ser»

vices’ team. The Guards Polo Club continues to try and invest in new players with Beginners’ Courses throughout the season. This scheme allowed novices to have 10 lessons at a reduced rate at Rib— blesdale Lodge with their professional.

It was a success in 97 and it is hoped to be run in 98. The team entered 3 tour-

by Captain L E A Chauveau RHG/D he 1997 season saw a great revival in Cricket at the Mounted Regiment.

Polo Household Cavalry Polo has had another “Curate’s Egg” of a season.

The good parts are that there is a strong quorum of players, there are opportunities for new players to learn and that the team has won a fair proportion of the military tournaments. The sulphurous side is that again the Inter Regimental

Cricket

naments this season, win-

ning the Captains and Subal— terns, and the Major Gener— al’s. Sadly the team lost by a goal in the semi finals of the Inter Regimental to the Foot Guards, who went on to win the tournament. This was frustrating, as the team was strong and well mounted.

There is an option that the tournament, like the Grand .

Military, may be opened to retired officers in the future.

The 98 season may be a lean one. Individual postings and a BATUS deployment will reduce the availability of the team. However we will enter all the military tournaments.

Any novices wishing to learn, through the Guard’s Polo Club, should contact Maj Cowen on Netheravon Mil 8001.

Whilst it is good to see strong interest and emotions are still stirred by polo

The Major Genera/s Cup. LF: M. Bar/ow A Fox Pm. F Tay/or. S Cowen

Play duhhg [he Captains and Suba/tems

within the Regiment, polo is under pressure as a military sport.

The increasing costs of a more professional sport and the demands of military com— mitments have definitely put pressure on young players.

There were some notable performances but LCpl Smith’s LG 104 against the Royal Regiment of Wales and half centuries from CoH Halfhide RHG/D against Windsor and Lieutenant Colonel H S J Scott LG against Watton XI deserve a mention. The Commanding Officer sorted out the kit shortage with some excellent buys that will serve the team for years to come. The whole team played with excellent spirit and enthusi— asm and with much of the team around next year it promises to be an excellent season. Thanks go to CoH Halfhide RHG/D as manager and vice—captain for all his hard work and organisation.

New.

The 7stXI. Runnerseup m the London a [3/5 of Cricket F/na/s.

Team Members 1997 Lieutenant Colonel H S J Scott LG Captain L E A Chauveau RHG/D Captain M G Holden-Craufurd LG W02 (SCM) Lanahan LG

CoH Halfhide RHG/D

CoH Kemp RHG/D CoH Patternotte LG LCpl’s Lyth, Smith Forte all LG, Tpr Ireland RHG/D

Golf

by Major CRC Garrity RHG/D he 1997 season began with the traditional warm up match against Sunningdale Green Keepers in a four» ball stableford competition. The match was played on the new course at Sun— ningdale Golf Club which was in an immaculate condition enabling all five teams to produce some exciting golf After a strong challenge by the Household Cavalry the Sunningdale Keepers won 3 matches to Z. In April the opening round of the Colonel—in»Chief’s Cup took place at Worpelsdon Golf Club in which the Household Cavalry were able to field three teams, with the A and B Teams winning through to the semi—finals.

The concluding rounds took place in September and at the end of the morning the scene was set for an exciting final between Household Cavalry A verses

”It:Ma/ Bab Gar/W. [he Househo/o’ Cavalry non play/mg Capra/I7. rece/ves the cup from Ma/co/m Roberts a Dream of Flenmgs Ma; Gen Peter Let/chars am (70/ SM James Ma/CO/m loch on

After an epic struggle with some of the best golfto be produced during the competition the Household Cavalry A Team

retained the Colonel-in -Chiei’s Cup for the fourth year in succession.

Grenadier Guards A.

Household Cavalry News 86

Household Cavalry News

87

Football

News From the Associations

by W02 (SCM) Langham LG he 1996/97 season saw a large num— ber of potential and senior players in the Regiment.

Working through Queen’s Life Guard duties and courses the lst XI was able to play 12 games this year and won seven, lost three and drew 2. As a result we were runners up in the Londist Minor Unit League for the 2nd consecutive year.

Regiment.

The Life Guards Association

The following represented the RAC during the course of the season: CoH Patternotte LG, LCpl Broom RHG/D, LCpl Lythe LG and Tpr Jordan LG. In addition the following regularly represented the Regiment: W02 (SCM)

Annual Report 1996

The highlight of the year, however, was

Bellringer LG, W02 Godson, W02 (SCM) Lanahan LG, W02 (FQMC)

the opportunity to play the Queens Park Rangers’ Youth Team. This team con— sisted of a number of recently signed young players that show the potential to be the team’s stars of tomorrow. The result, the reader may not by surprised to hear, was a 6 -1 victory to the Visitors, who included a guest player in the form of W02 (SCM) Bellringer LG, who has been the driving force behind the Regimental team for the last four years.

Amazingly he even managed to score a goal on which he was able to dine out on for a number of weeks afterwards. CoH

Patternotte LG scored the goal for the

Wright LG, CsoH Lowe LG, Patternotte LG, LCsoH Auld LG, Davidson LG, Hockings RHG/D, Jenkins RHG/D, Lythe LG, Twyman RHG/D, Young LG, LCpls Broom RHG/D, Forte LG, Ireland RHG/D, Rowan LG, Stubbings RHG/D Tprs Anderson LG, Benfield

Patron Her Majesty The Queen President

Committee Chairman: Lieutenant Colonel HSJ Scott

Major General Lord Michael Fitzalan Vice Chairman: Major GGE Stibbe

Howard GCVO CB CBE MC DL Vice Chairman: Major JDA Gaselee Honorary Treasurer: Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) AD Meakin

Trustees of The Life Guards Charitable Trust W02 (SCM) Be/lr/nger LG plays his /ast Army fool— ba/l game... for the Queen's Park Rangers Your/7 Team against the Housho/d Cavalry Regiment.

LG, Ingham LG, Mountford LG and Sherlock RHG/D. ringer LG who leave the army. The latter has completed 22 years service including many supporting Regimental

Finally the team would like to bid farewell to all members of the team returning to Windsor but particularly to

football.

LCpl Stubbings RHG/D and W02 Bell—

almost as much as his experience.

Lieutenant Colonel HS] Scott Major JDA Gaselee Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) AD Meakin

Auditors

His decibels will be missed

Rugby

Messrs Grant Thornton Grant Thornton House Melton Street Euston Square London NW1 ZEP

Honorary Secretary: Captain (Retd) R Hennessy-Walsh

Serving Members

Non-Serving Members

Major AJ Mead

Lieutenant Colonel SV Gilbart-Denham, CVO

Captain JT Lodge

Mr LK Thomas

Captain JS Holbrook

Major NE Hearson JP DL

Captain M Whatley

Mr CE Dean RVM

W01 (RCM) WR Lindsay

Captain LD Stratford MBE

W02 (RQMC(T)) CI Nicholson

Mr D Johnson

W02 (SCM) PC Lanahan

Captain AM Cherrington

W02 (BCM) I Graves

Mr NW Taylor

W02 (SCM) AR Tate

Captain WAB Henderson

W02 (SCM) R Barry

Mr CD Watson

by Captain L E A Chauveau RHG/D he Rugby season 96-97 was one of

mixed fortunes for the Mounted Regiment XV. Some of the more experi-

Minutes of the 63rd Annual General Meeting of The Life Guards Association

enced players hung up their boots claim— ing old age but those who knew them well would say if that was their excuse they should have done it years ago, they

Held at Combermere Barracks, Windsor on Saturday 14 June 1997

have been old for ages! We had no soon— er said farewell to the Welsh Guards then we welcomed yet another Welsh

he Chairman opened the Meeting at 1800 hours by welcoming everyone

Regiment to London District in the form of The Royal Regiment of Wales.

Their country’s game may be in turmoil but their Regiment’s is not.

present.

We were

knocked out of the London District Cup by the Scots Guards and The Cavalry Cup by the Queens Royal Lancers both of whom, as some form of consolation, were beaten by the Windsor Regiment.

In the London District 75 we got to the final with some notable performances

but lost in the end to the lst RRW in an excellent game. Team spirit has been excellent and we go into the new season

full of hope as a new generation of play-

». n;

ma.

The Mounted Peg/men! Team, I/na/Ists in the Load

who’s hard work was crucial to the teams performance. We have new blood coming back from Windsor and CoH Halfhide RHG/D will take over as Man— ager for the remainder of the season in which it is hoped the team can continue to build on its experience.

ers are coming forward and the team is

improving steadily. Thanks must go to LCoH McGarry RHG/D, as the Captain

The following players represented the Regiment regularly:

m & D/‘str/‘Ct 7—a»sfde Rugby Competition.

Captain L E A Chauveau RHG/D, Capt M G Holden—Craufurd LG, LCsoH McGarry RHG/D, Foster RHG/D, Hockings RHG/D, LCpl’s Forte LG, Smith LG, Turner LG, Conroy LG, James RHG/D, Ireland RHG/D, and Tprs Scott LG, Adamson LG, Idden LG, Musn Stroud RHG/D.

The Minutes of the Sixty Second Annu— al General meeting were published in the current edition of the Journal. It was proposed by Major Hearson and seconded by Mr Dean that they were a true record of the proceedings.

Honorary Treasurer’s Report: The draft accounts published in the cur rent edition ofthe Regimental Magazine for 1996 have now been confirmed as correct by the Auditors. The funds remain in a healthy state and the investments with the United Services Trustee

(which cost £153, 000) are now valued at £508, 300. So far this year we have received 14 applications for assistance and have rejected three ofthese for various reasons. This year we have received £1, 100 from the estate of the late Major Henry Montgomerie—Charrington (last year the amount was £850) and we have also received a legacy of£4, 700 from the estate of the late Mr A Green (294958) who served from 1933 to 1936 and who died in August last year. I would like to mention that we have every assistance from the Army Benevolent Fund and we have already received from them £6, 000 this year to help with the grants made from Association Funds.

The report was approved by Mr Sayers and seconded by Captain Henderson.

Honorary Secretary’s Report: The Association Office or, as it is now more correctly known, Horne Head— quarters Household Cavalry, has had another busy year. In addition to maintaining details of former members of

both Regiments, the Office also administers the newly appointed Household Cavalry Recruiting Officer and his team together with a Civilian Careers Cell, details of which were published in the current Journal. I would ask all mem— bers of the Association to let me know should they ever be in a position to offer employment to a Household Cavalryman. Non»serving membership is now at 2, 349 which is an increase of 54 since this time last year and an increase of 79

News from the Associations

88

Household Cavalry News

since 1995. I continue to be encouraged by the annual increase in membership despite the deaths of 28 of our members whose obituaries are shown in the Jour-

nal. Sadly a further 11 have died since the Journal was published. Details of these obituaries will appear in the Newsletter. Committee meetings continue to be held quarterly to decide on policy matters and the financial subcommittee continues to make grants to worthy causes both young and old, and to widows. The report was approved by

Mr Etches and seconded by Captain Cherrington.

Any other Business: EXPENDITURE a. Mr ]E Lloyd wished to thank the Association and the Regiment for all the help that his family had been given after the death of his father.

b.

Mr C Watson wished to know

whether any member of the Regiment had been diagnosed as suffering from Gulf War Syndrome. Nobody present

was aware of any such case. c. Mr G Hitchman asked what could be done to reduce the cost of Dinner tickets

1996 259.00 3 427.13 416.13 822.50

for pensioners. The Chairman promised that the Committee would address this problem at their next meeting.

(1. Mr L Pritchard, Chairman of the North Staffordshire Branch Association, thanked the Committee for their con— tinued support.

602.00 256.90 198.80 67.78 10.50

e. Mr Sayers asked that the custom of wearing medals for the Annual Dinner should be compulsory for all.

14,724.88

Election of Committee:

1997 1,880.38 4,148.55 127.62 822.50 2,057.94

Office Equipment/Misc. expenses Postage Stationery Auditors’ Fee Secretary’s Honorarium Membership Cards/Rule Books Wreaths/Funeral expenses Donations Combined Cavalry Association Empire Field of Remembrance St. George’s Memorial Chapel Miscellaneous Donations (see note 5) Grants

719.61

139.52 71.16 5.25 1,428.00

27,993.11 180.00 4,962.75

In accordance with normal custom the non—serving members of the Committee resigned but they all offered themselves

for re—election for the coming year. Proposed by Captain Holbrook and second—

‘

ed by Mr Scott.

'

Annual Dinner 1996 5,390.03

493-53 32.00

Regimental Kneelers - Gds. Chapel Regimental Magazine

Cost 4,896.50 Income Bank Charges

64.00 9,726.10 47,546.47

Invested with United Services Trustee Bank & Deposit Balances as at 31 Dec

50,405.13

83 726.47

92,205.76

INVESTMENTS 469,038,37 47,546.47 516,584.84

RECEIPTS 1996 41,344.18 10,000.00

Subscriptions and Donations 1799.12 122.90 35.79 1,891.69 21,644.34 5,360.00 850.00

Bank Balances as at 1st January HCav Charitable Trust (One Day’s Pay)

1997 47,546.47 10,000.00

4. The Legacy from the estate of the late 294958 Tpr A Green.

1. Investments Cost of shares held on31 December 1997: Number of shares held: Market value of shares held on 31 December 1997: Value per share on 31 December 1997:

153,208.17 61,675 £556,863.57 £9.029

The share holdings on 31 December 1997 are attributable to the following: LG Association Helping Hand Fund LG Charitable Trust Interest on Deposit Accounts Dividends from United Services Trustee Grants from Army Benevolent Fund Legacy the late Major HE Montgomerie—Charringtonl (see note 3) —Legacy the late 294958 Tpr A Green (see note 4)

2 398.85 140.40 237.81 2,286.46 17,087.19 7,660.00 195.16

556,863.57 50,405.13 607,268.70

NOTES ON THE ACCOUNTS

The Life Guards Association and Charitable Trust Income and Expenditure account for year ending 315t December 1997

Investments at current value as at 1 Dec Current Bank and Deposit Accounts

Charitable Trust:

Sir Roger Palmer Fund: Helping Hand Fund:

He died on 12 August 1996 and served in the Regiment from 1933 to 1936.

5. Miscellaneous donations made to: Monty’s Statue Appeal Thames Valley Hospice Holy Trinity Church Broom Farm Kindergarten

56,286

1,081 4:308

The Charitable Trust holds 1,051 shares on behalf of the Regimental Funds of The Life Guards. These shares cost £7,314.47 and are valued on 31 December 1997 at £9,489.48

4,729.89 2. Miscellaneous

£100.00 £314.00

Gurkha Memorial Appeal

£314.00 £500.00 £100.00

Ex-Servicemen’s Mental Welfare Societv

£100.00

In View of the publication date of the Regimental Journal the accountants have not yet completed the audit for 1997 and therefore these accounts are published in draft form for the information of members and their correctness will be confirmed at the next Annual General Meeting of the Association in 1998.

Christmas Cards

678.45

£3,129.70- Sales — £3206.65 £2,451.25 - Cost — £2850.00

68 grants were made to members of the Association or their widows during 1997.

Income £4735.00 Cost 53416812

3. The Legacy from the estate of the late ‘ Major HE Montgomerie-Charrington. died and 1956 to 1944 from Regiment the in served officer This

Dinner 1997 -

83 726.47

566.88 94,205.76

(signed) AD Meakin Lieutenant Colonel Honorary Treasurer The Life Guards Association

in the Bahamas on 1 June 1992.

News front the Associations 90

News from the Associations

The Life Guards Association Notices

Annual Report 1997

(See also Notices on Page 97)

Correspondence for the Association should be addressed to: The Honorary Secretary The Life Guards Association Home Headquarters Household Cavalry Combermere Barracks Windsor Berkshire

3. Regimental Items for sale Various items with the Regimental Cypher are available from the House— hold Cavalry Museum at Combermere

Barracks. A list of these items for sale appear in this Journal or can be obtained

from the Curator on 01 753 755203.

SL4 3DN

4. Annual General Meeting

Tel: 01 753 755297 Facsimile: 01 753 755161

The 64th Annual General Meeting will be held in Combermere Barracks, Windsor on Saturday 13th June 1998 commencing at 1800hrs.

1. Membership 5. Annual Association Dinner All members of the Association are requested to introduce the Association to all those eligible for membership under Rule 2 of the Rules of Membership.

2. Life Membership

The 63rd Annual Dinner will be held in Combermere Barracks, Windsor on Saturday 13th June 1998 commencing at 1900hrs.

Dress: Lounge Suit with medals (not miniatures). Colonel PSWF Falkner, who commanded Household

Cavalry Regiment from October 1992 to In accordance with Rule 4 of the Rules of Membership any Annual Member of the Association may become a Life

Member on payment of £15 in the case of officers and £5 in the case of other ranks.

August 1994, will be in the chair. Tickets will not be available at the door and must be obtained through the Honorary Secretary using the proforma enclosed with this Journal. Personal guests will

The Blues 8: Royals Association

not be permitted to attend. The Regimental Corporal Major will offer the hospitality ofthe WOs’ & NCOs’ Mess to all Association members and their wives after the Dinner. However, it is neces~ sary for him to impose a restriction on children accompanying their parents into the Mess unless they are aged 18 or over. Please also note that ladies should not attend until after the Dinner.

President :

General Sir Desmond Fitzpatrick GCB, GCVO, DSO, MBE, MC.

Committee:

Capt MA Hardin Capt OM Sackett

Lieutenant General Sir Richard Vickers KCB, LVO, OBE. (Chairman) Lt Col BWB White « Spunner RHG/D

Major TPR Daniel RHG/D

W02(RQMC) L Atkinson

W02 (SCM) H Ford W02 MR Hayward W02 (RQMC) VP Maher

Hon Treasurer Major (Retd) EL Payne 6. Life Membership Card/Book of Rules The Book of Rules was sent out to all members with the 1996 Newsletter. All non-commissioned members were also sent a Life Membership Card.

Any member who has not received these items should contact the Honorary Sec— retary.

7.

Hon Secretary Major (Retd) JG Handley

Non Serving Members

Asst Secretary Major (Retd) AW Kersting Legal Advisor AT Lawson - Cruttenden Esq. TD MA Serving Members

Christmas Cards

Details of the 1998 Christmas Card will be announced in the Newsletter which will be issued in or around August 1998.

In view of the large demand on them, members are advised to submit their orders as soon as they receive the proforma which will be sent with the Newsletter.

Lt Col (Retd) WR Marsh Major (Retd)J Peck Major (Retd) B Lane Capt (Retd) RB Yates Mr K Adams Mr DH Clark Mr D Ellis Mr W Henderson Mr H Hunter

Mr PB Lawson Mr WR Macdougall Mr CE Mogg Mr CE Missenden Mr M Pinks Mr MA Shillabeer Mr KA Taylor Mr P Wilson Mr W Steel

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting Held at Combermere Barracks on Saturday 10th May 1997 1. Opening remarks

Commander Household Cavalry. the two Commanding Officers and party at the F/e/ds of Remembrance Service. . n. m m. _ “my .

n w. m III II‘ tlj'

W01 (Bandmaster) JD Brigden W02 (SCM) RJ Carney W02 TR Francis WOZ(SCM) Maxwell W02 (SCM) MJW Norris

The President opened the meeting at 1910 hrs by welcoming all members pre— sent. He then handed the meeting over to the Chairman, Lt Gen. Sir Richard Vickers.

The Chairman expressed the regret of all association members at the news of

the sad death of Lady Templar.

and a therefore a number of photocopies of the minutes & accounts were distributed within the meeting room.

Mr Twinn asked if steps could be taken to ensure that the journal arrived in time in future and the Chairman agreed to approach those concerned. It was then PROPOSED by Mr Triggs and

SECONDED by Mr Idle that the minutes be passed CARRIED.

He

advised the meeting that a memorial ser— vice would be held in The Chapel Royal at the Royal Hospital Chelsea at llOOhrs

on 01 July 1997.

2. Minutes of the Previous meeting.

The Chairman stated that the minutes of the Annual General Meeting 1996 were published in the Household Cavalry Journal for 1996/7 which had been despatchcd to all members of the Association. However it had become clear that due to late publication, not all members had yet received their copy

3. The Accounts The Treasurer gave a summary of the accounts for the period 1 Jan - 31 Dec. 96 followed by a short report on the benevolent expenditure for the past 5 months. He went on to remind the meeting ofthe great support given to the association by the Hon Legal Advisor, particularly in the field of the audit of the accounts and asked the meeting to support a vote of thanks to Major Lawson ~ Cruttenden. This was heartily endorsed by all.

It was then PROPOSED by Mr CE Mogg and

SECONDED by Mr DH Clark that the accounts for the period he passed.

CARRIED

4. Committee members.

The Chairman informed the meeting that under Rule 12 of the Constitution and Rules, Mr F Collingwood and Mr AG France retire from the committee.

The committee recommend Mr WT Steel to fill one vacancy and it was then PROPOSED by Major M Brown and SECONDED by Major B Lane that Mr Peter Wilson be asked to fill the second vacancy.

CARRIED Mr Lawson noted the prospective resignation from the committee of Mr Bourne and asked if it would be neces— sary to nominate a replacement at this meeting. The Secretary replied that this should be considered at the next com-

News from the Associations 92

News from the Associations

93

mittee meeting in order to give time to identify a suitable and available replace—

ment.

5. Other Business (a) Venue for the Annual Dinner

It was PROPOSED by Mr M Twinn and SECONDED by Mr S Appleby that the association rules be changed to allow the venue for the dinner for any year to be decided by a majority vote at the Annu— al General Meeting of the preceding year. The Chairman to have a casting vote in the event ofa tie. A considerable discussion then ensued which re—iterated the many points in favour and against

the respective venues of London and Windsor.

Lt Col White Spunner reminded the meeting that agreement to a particular venue 1 year in advance would be very difficult for the hosting regiment due to operational and train— ing commitments.

The Chairman summarised the feeling of the meeting that whilst London was clearly a convenient place for many, the dinner should occasionally be held at Windsor, particularly when the Com—

manding Officer HCR was badged RHG/D. However, whilst we were given every assistance, we were in fact the guests of the respective regiments, and it was not proper for the association to pre-empt Commanding Officers in the allocation of their resources. The pro— posal was therefore not voted upon.

(b) Vesting Day Memorial Dinner Mr Triggs outlined a proposal for a celebratory dinner to commemorate the 30th anniversary ofVesting Day in 1999.

The event to be open to wives / partners and guests . In view of the potentially large attendance the event should not be sponsored by either of the two regi— ments, and would be held at a venue catering for large events such as Birm— ingham, Blackpool or Bournemouth.

The event to be self supporting and run by a voluntary sub committee.

A discussion on the merits of the pro— posal then followed. Major Brown questioned the need to celebrate vesting day after such a considerable interval, and reminded the meeting of the very con~ siderable work and funds which would be involved in the preparation and exe— cution of an event of this scale. Mr Hul— land asked if the membership could be canvassed for support before a decision was taken. Mr Triggs noted that his research had shown that most large venues were fully booked up to 2 years in advance and that a prompt decision would be needed. Mr Dunkely then expressed concern that an event of this scale could mitigate against the Annual Dinner since many would not be able to afford the cost of two attendances in the

year.

On a show of hands the proposition was NOT CARRIED.

regiments, the meeting did not feel that Mr Funnell came within the rules for Honorary membership and the application was not approved.

STOCK 0N HAND £9,161.15

£8,823.68

Regtl Histories

£0.00

£0.00

Sundry Creditors

(d) Obituaries Captain L Evans noted that the obituary notices for the late RCM Berrisford, SCM Peake and J Butterworth were not included in the latest edition of the Journal. The Secretary informed the meeting that these notices were included in the lists sent to the Editor, but that as he had not been given a chance to proof read the association submission nor yet received a copy of the current edition he was unable to give an explanation. The Secretary went on to say that in response to requests, and in order to enable easier identification, the ser— vice number of the deceased would be included in the obituary notice in future.

£78,988.93

Net current assets

£81,370.14

£86.597.17

INVESTMENTS (see note 1) At cost Market Value

$186,597.17

£45 1,193.21 £165,586.10

TOTAL ASSETS

£167,967.31

£158,334.02 £165,586.10 £7,252.08

ACCUMULATED FUNDS Balance as at 01 Jan 1997 Balance as at 31 Dec 1997 EXCESS OF INCOME

£167,967.31 £165,586.10 £2,381.21

Schedule of Investments 1996 Market Value £220,577.79

Units held 29057

United Services Trustees Combined Charitable Fund Equities Investment Fund for Charities (CHARIFUND) M& G Charifund Acc. Units

(c) Annual Dinner 1996 Mr Finnie commented on the behaviour of some serving and non serving mem— bers at the 1996 dinner and expressed the hope that this would not be repeated. The Chairman noted these remarks and assured the meeting that steps had been taken to avoid any future repetition of these events.

£515,031.70

£71,290.34

8878

$260,591.57

1443

$198,733.51

100601

Units held 29057

Market Value £248,146.78

8878

£84,962.46

1443

£76,291.41

100601

£105,631.05

Barclays Unicorn Exmpt.Trust

£451,19321

£515,031.70

TotalValue

(c) Honorary Membership The Secretary informed the meeting that he had received an application for Honorary Membership for Mr H Fun— nell who had served in the RAF detachment at Wulfenbuttel when that station was manned both by The Blues and The Royals.

Whilst noting Mr Funnell’s happy association with both of the old

Income and Expenditure Account

There being no further business to discuss the meeting closed at 1915hrs.

For the period 01 Jan—31Dec 1997

EXPENDITURE

INCOME

The Blues and Royals Association

Grants InvestmentDividends Deposit a/c Interest Subs &Donations Annual Dinner Tkt Sales Christmas Card Sales Book Sales Royalties Sales of Journal Sundries

TOTAL

1996

1997

Grants Memorials Wreaths Postage Annual Dinner Christmas Card

£10,445.62 £0.00

£909.88 £2,626.59 £4,576.62 £1,389.58

£13,414.44 £0.00 £1,335.50 £3,694.32 £5,129.48 £1,450.00

£206.53 £2,670.00 £0.00

Costs of Journal Administration

£5,905.75 £4,614.03

£6,875.00 £6,394.83

£40,674.78

TOTAL

£30,468.07

$38,293.57

Excess of Income

£2,381.21

1996

1997

£0.00

£1,814.83 £11,075.39 £4,184.00 £1,770.70

£0.00 £17,655.11 £2.474.73 £11,869.58 £4,468.00 £1,330.83

£550.39 £943.00 £0.00

£37,720.15

£17,381.84

Balance Sheet as at December 3lst 1997 Excess of Income

£7,252.08

REPORT OF THE INDEPEN _ . DENT EXAMINER

CASH ON HAND

The Blues & Royals Assoctation

CASH AT BANK £2,175.26 £66.230.71

a true and I have examined the Balance Sheet and income and expenditure account and report that in my opinion these accounts give

Current account

£9‘931'81

Deposit Account

£62,428.52

£1.421.81

SUNDRY DEBTORS

£18613

£69,827.78

TOTAL CASH&DRs

£72,546.46

for the year ended fair view of the state oft he Association’s affairs at 31 December 1997 and the surplus of income over expenditure on that date.

AT Lawson Cruttenden TD. MA» 10/11 Grey’s Inn Square,London WClR 5JD.

News from the Associations 94

News from the Associations

95

Association Notices

Notices Information for Members ofbath The Life Guards and The Blues and Royals Associations

All correspondence should be addressed to:

The Queen’s Birthday Parade and Review

The Hon. Secretary The Blues & Royals Association Combermere Barracks, Windsor, Berks. SL4 3DN

Tel: 01753 755297

The Queen’s Birthday Parade will be held on Saturday 13th June 1998 with the Colonels’ Review on 6th June and the Major General’s Review on 30th

Annual General Meeting

May. A limited number of tickets for the Inner Line of Sentries (standing only) will be available for members through the Honorary Secretary of their respective Associations.

The 30th Annual General Meeting will be held at Hyde Park Barracks, Knights— bridge, on 9 May 1998 commencing at 1830hrs. The Agenda for the meeting is set out below. All members are invited

Beating Retreat

to attend. Members wishing to place a Farewell lunch to Lt Col Ray Glles and Major Brian Lane at HCR

resolution before the meeting should write to the Honorary Secretary at least 6 weeks before the meeting.

wards by kind permission of the RCM

Agenda

The Hyde Park Bombing Memorial

HCMR.

Minutes of the previous AGM The accounts for the period ending 31 Dec 1997 Election of Committee Members Other business

Members are reminded that there will be a service of remembrance held at the memorial on Sunday 10 May 1998

directly after the Cavalry Memorial Parade has ended.

Association Annual Dinner Notifications.

The 30th Annual Dinner will be held at Hyde Park Barracks, Knightsbridge on Saturday 9 May 1998 at 1930hrs. Dress: Lounge Suits. No Medals. Tickets will not be available at the door and must be obtained through the Hon Secretary.

Members are requested to notify the association office of any changes to their contact details as soon as possible in order that they may continue to receive communications from the association and in particular the Annual Journal.

who have now left the Regiment and returned to civilian life. Their primary task being to bring to the attention of the association cases of members who were in difficulty through illness or oth— erwise and who were in need of financial or other support. It was the practice to publish their names & addresses in the annual journal, but this was discontinued on advice from the Security branch— es in whose opinion the publishing of details of ex soldiers could constitute a danger of person attack.

member and only Official Guests will be

Area Association Representatives

We are now advised that this danger no longer exists or is very unlikely and the committee have decided that the Area Representatives system should be revised and re instituted. Any member who feels that he is able to devote some of his time to assist in this way is asked to write to

permitted. To assist with security, mem— bers are asked to be prepared to present some form of identity on entering Barracks. Ladies may not attend the dinner, but are welcome in the mess after-

In the recent past, a number of members agreed to act as representatives for the association within their immediate area in order to maintain a focus for those

The Secretary, Home HQ H/Cav, Combermere Bks, Windsor SL4 3DN.

Application proformas will be sent to all members . Due to limited seating space, tickets will be restricted to one per

B/gadler Parker Bow/es. Lleutenant Colonel While Spunner Colonel of The Reg/ment and Colonel Rogers at The Blues and Royals ASSOCIal/on Drnner r

M“_,.r

W07 (RC/VI) Mannrng RHG/D and W02 (SC/W Lanahan LG lay a wrealh at the Hyde Park BOInb/ng Meniorlal on Remembrance Sunday 0 ,, « i;

The Massed Bands of the Household Division will Beat Retreat on Horse Guards at 2130hrs on Wednesday and Thursday 3/4 June 1998. Performances

will be floodlit. Ticket prices are £10, £8 and £5 (all reserved seating) and can be obtained from the Treasurer, Household Division Funds, Horse Guards, Whitehall, London SW1A ZAX (Tel No: 0171 414 2271 or Credit Card Bookings 0171 839 5323) Cheques/Postal Orders made payable to “ Household Division Funds” Bookings are also available

through outlets of Edwards 81 Edwards and Keith Prowse. There is a 10% dis— count for groups of 10 or more.

Combined Cavalry Parade and Service The 74th Combined Cavalry Old Comrades Parade and Service will be held in Hyde Park on Sunday 10th May 1998.

Members of the Associations should assemble in Broad Walk at 1030hrs on the grass behind their Regimental Marker Boards. Dress will be lounge suits and medals (not miniatures). Due to the security arrangements members should give themselves plenty of time to get to the Assembly Area. Members are invited to Hyde Park Barracks after the Parade but admission to the Bar— racks will be by ticket only through your respective Honorary Secretary or on the day.

Change of address

HM Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, Commander Household Cavalry with Col PSWF Falkner and Capt (Held) Henessy-Wa/sh at [he Field of Remembrance,

their Association of their change of address. Any correspondence returned by the GPO as not having been deliv— ered will result in that member being placed in the non—effective part of the database.

Household Division Associations Branches/Clubs Members may wish to know that the Association Office holds a list of all Household Division Branches across the United Kingdom. Members who would like to be put in contact with them should contact the Honorary Secretary.

The Branches/Clubs are in: Birmingham, Blackpool, Chester, Cleveland/South Durham, Colchester, Corn— wall, Ellesmere Port/Neston, Louth, Luton, Manchester, Morecambe, War— rington, Wolverhampton, Yorkshire and North Yorkshire.

Regimental Open Day The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment will be holding their Annual Camp at Bodney between 5th and 26th August 1998. Open Day will be on Sun— day 23rd August to which all members of the Associations will be most wel— come. Sadly operational commitments prsent HCR from holding an open day this year.

SSAFA Forces All members are requested to inform their respective Honorary Secretary, through Home Headquarters, of any change in their address. Every year both Associations lose touch with a number of members who have failed to inform

Help - Recruitment SSAFA Forces Help need more volunteers from each Association to be Casework Supporters who are visitors, trea»

surers, administrators and fund-raisers.

SSAFA Forces Help volunteers are there to provide practical help, advice and friendship to all serving and ex— serving men, women and their families.

More than 85,000 call on the charity every year. Training is given (2 days), out-of-pocket expenses are paid. Job satisfaction guaranteed.

If you can spare a little time for a “comrade”; please contact: Ann Needle Branch Recruitment Office 19 Queen Elizabeth Street

LONDON SE1 2LP Tel: 0171 403 8783 ext. 223 who can put you in touch with your

nearest team.

Brick Hanging.

HCR brickhanging will be held in the WOs and NCOs Mess at Combermere Barracks at 1200 hrs on Thursday 17th December 1998. HCMR Brickhanging will also be on 17 December 1998.

Massed Bands Concert The Royal Festival Hall The Massed Bands of the Household Division will play in concert at the Royal Festival Hall on 9th December

1998. * Tickets are priced at £9.50, £12, £14.50 £17 and £20.00 and are available fromthe Royal Festival Hall booking office, Belvedere Road, London SE1 SXX. Tel No 0171 960 4242 and available from 3 June 1998.

News from the Associations 96

News from the Associations

97

Household Cavalry Museum

The Blues and Royals

Staff: Major (Ret’d) AW Kersting (formerly RHG/D 1954-86), Mrs Janet Watts he move of the Museum from Combermere Barracks Windsor to Horse Guards is now gathering pace.

The coming year will involve numerous meetings to discuss with organisations such as Heritage what alterations, if any, can be made to the Horse Guards; talks with the builders, and perhaps most important of all, how to raise the funds to pay for all the costs involved. It is, of course, a very exciting project and when completed will certainly put the Muse—

um on a sound financial footing, which in these days of rapid changes towards Museum funding is of the utmost importance.

There was a high number of visitors to the Museum during 1997, particularly during the summer months. The highlight was of course the visit of HM The Queen on 12 May. Visitors included local and overseas schools, Historical Research groups, Cadets, Business

groups, Rotary Clubs, British Legion, Military Historians and writers, Foreign Language courses from Beaconsfield and many overseas visitors.

During the year the Museum was donated items of uniform from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and various items of Regimental Memorabilia from former members of the Regiments and the general public.

Obituaries The Life Guards 294969 Cpl RA Tristram Served from 18 Apr 33 to 22 Feb 46 Died 13 Jan 94 aged 84 years

305832 Cpl P Allen RHG Served From 1941 to 1946 Died 20 Sep 1996

23538785 5/Cpl PFM Cain RHG/D Served from 1959 to 1982 Died March 1997

Captain T W Tucker RHG/D

19104055 Tpr D Allin RHG Served from 1946 to 1949 Died July 1995

2321072 Tpr L.Doust 1RD

305810 Tpr PFT Reddyhoff RHG Served from 1928 to 1953 Died 6 May 97

306833 W02 HE Allock RHG Served from 1946 to 1968 Died 1997

Major RH Egar RHG/D

23215897 L/Cpl AJ Atherall RHG

22782955 W01 W Hearn RHG/D

Served from 1958 to 1967 Died 26 Mar 1997

Served from 1955 to 1978

Died July 1997

79272560 Cpl J Spink RHG Served from 1940 to 1946 Died 1996

304814 W01 JC Berrisford RHG Served from 1928 to 1953 Died October 1996

24253853 TprJ Hartley RHG/D Served from 1971 to 1976 Died December 1997

304948 Cpl G C Searle RHG Served from 1932 to 1945 Died 08 November 1997

Major DH Browne MBE 1RD

Col Baron VAN MOYLAND RHG Served from 1949 to 1950 Died November 1996

22782958 W01 NLP Wood MBE (RHG/D) Served from 0000 to 0000 Died 08 December 1996

305405 W01 J Neill MBE RHG Served from 1939 to 1963 Died 10 Aug 97

294964 W02 WB Turner

295608 Cpl WH Barrett

Served from 1927 to 1945 Died 31 Oct 96

Served from 1932 to 1946 Died 30 Apr 97 aged 87 years

Served from 13 Mar 41 to 6 Nov 46 Died 4 Jul 97 aged 77 years

22454054 TprJ Beattie RHG Served from 1951 to 1953

22205390 Cpl PC Austin 190570 Cpl SJ Glover Served from 21 Jan 39 to 23 Jul 45 Died 12 Jan 97 aged 76 years

Served from 1 Jul 49 to 30 Jun 54 Died 19 Dec 96 aged 66 years

295586 Tpr J Stock

Died 21 May 97

Served from 1939 to 17 Aug 46 Died 30 Nov 96 aged 80 years

320096 Sgt CE Cannon 1 RD

295158 Tpr E Mead 21000143 W02 DC Miller Served from 12 Jan 48 to 28 Jun 70 Died 17 Jan 97 aged 66 years

6202679 Tpr SLR Cole Served from 8 Oct 36 to 16 Apr 46 Died aged 81 years

Served from 19 Nov 79 to 1 Oct 86 Died Oct 96 aged 37 years

Served from 1 Jan 47 to 2 Oct 52 Died 11 Dec 96 aged 67 years

Served from 1959 to 1971 Died July 1997

Served from 1938 to 1946 Died March 1997

403777 W02 CA Palmer 1RD Served from 1930 to 1952 Died 17 September 1997

305333 SQMC Coverson-Biles RHG.

14579327 Tpr JA Patching 1RD

Served from 1938 to 1960 Died March 1997

Served from 1944 to 1947 Died 4 December 1997

406425 Tpr T Reilly 1RD Served from 1934 to 1938 Died 1996

144911400 Sgt S Yates 1RD Served from 1944 to 1947 Died 21 October 1997

Served from 24 Aug 37 to 1 Oct 39 Died 23 Aug 97 aged 81 years

24417852 Tpr R Taylor 296741 P Wormington

Served from 1931 to 1945 Died 1997

Served from 1952 to 1977 (Tfr to RAPC) Died May 1997

23969285 CoH T York Served from 8 Oct 64 to 17 Nov 78 Died 14 Sep 97 aged 51 years

294681 Cpl JP Smith 295079 Major E Smith MVO Served from 4 Sep 35 to 15 Nov 41 (on discharge to a commission) Died 18 Dec 96 aged 79 years

22205630 Tpr KW Leverton Served from 1953 to 1956 Died 28 Jan 97 aged 63 years

Served from 28 Feb 44 to 25 Dec 47 Died 2 Feb 97 aged 70 years

14892641 CoH C Davies

294686 CoH GD Harrison

Served from 30 Dec 44 to 5 Apr 48 Died Jul 90 aged 76 years

Served from 9 Jan 28 t0 9 Oct 35 AND 17 Mar 41 to 28 Dec 45 Died 12 Sep 97 aged 88 years

Served from 2 May 64 t0 2 May 69 Died 30 May 97 aged 53 years

late The Life Guards

by Major General Sir Desmond Langley KCVO MBE formerly The Life Guards

295522 E Axelrod Served from 16 Jan 41 to 18 Oct 46 Died 7 May 97 aged 76 years

23122710 Tpr JA Wiley Served from 1955 to 1957 Died 23 May 97 aged 60 years

29617] CoH EC Willett Served from 1945 to 1965 Died 12 Mar 97 aged 72 years

Lieutenant Colonel Sir Rupert Hardy Bt

Captain STC Hanbury

295440 CoH K Collinson Served from 1939 to 1945 Died 18 Feb 97 aged 77 years

296276 Tpr K Punchard

Served from 26 Nov 27 to 25 Nov 35 AND from 31 Aug 39 to 18 Mar 45 Died 25 Mar 97 aged 89 years

294726 COH GB Hale Served from 1 Oct 28 to 30 Nov 45 Died 29 Sep 97 aged 86 years

23614160 Tpr MG Preston Served from 19 Mar 59 to 2 Apr 62 Died 26 Jun 97 aged 60 years

Lt Colonel Sir Rupert Hardy Bt Served from 1923 to 1956

22525123 CoH GB Cooper

Died 22 Mar 97 aged 94 years

Served from 10 Aug 50 to 13 Mar 77 Died 8 Jul 97 aged 65 years

21052882 Tpr AE Skiggs Served to 3 Nov 49 Died 24 Oct 97 aged 68 years

Major MS Wilmot Served as Paymaster 1960 to 1973 Died Oct 97 aged 80 years

295251 WS Cook

388704 Surgeon Lt Colonel GH Bulow

Transferred to RASC 27 Apr 40 Died Mar 97 age unknown

Served from 21 Mar 48 to 21 Oct 68 Died 12 Jul 97 aged 73 years

upert Hardy died on 22 March 1997 Rat the age of 94. He will perhaps now be best remembered as the first Commanding Officer of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

He was born in 1902, was in the Shooting Eight at Eton and joined The Life Guards in 1925 after Trinity Hall, Cambridge and some time in the Staffordshire Yeomanry. He attended the Equitation Instructors’ Course at Weedon in 1927/8 and married the Hon Diana Allsop in

1930. He was promotcd Captain in 1932

and was commanding Headquarters Squadron The Life Guards in 1936/37.

When war came he took command ofC Squadron in the lst Household Cavalry Regiment which sailed with their horses as part of the lst Cavalry Division to Palestine where for a year they patrolled and carried out internal security duties.

Shortage of equipment delayed mechanisation but C Squadron were the first to benefit when a little became available, receiving a few Morris trucks in October

Obituaries 98

News from the Associations

Obituaries

99

1940. In March the following year the Regiment’s horses were handed in and

pation of Syria. After bypassing French positions which refused to surrender, the

replaced with 15 cwts. When Habforce

Regiment arrived before Palmyra and

was formed in May, 1HCR took the lead in Kingcol, driving through the khamsein down the pipeline that crossed the desert from Mafraq in Jordan, to the

was subjected to heavy air attack, there being initially no air support available.

For a few days Rupert temporarily commanded the Regiment before Palmyra surrendered, and the subsequent advance to Homs led to the French agreeing to an armistice. He then reverted to Second in

relief of Habbaniya on the Euphrates, joining part of the Arab Legion under Glubb Pasha on the way. As it reached its destination, C Squadron was machine— gunned from low altitude by what were believed to be German aircraft, and four of Rupert’s men were wounded.

C Squadron was then given the task of defending the nearby Fulluja Bridge.

The land around had been flooded by the Iraqis and the Squadron needed to wade for three—quarters of a mile pushing rafts

made of oil drums carrying its kit, while being covered by artillery fire. It then had a seven mile march along the Bund before reaching the bridge.

Habforce was divided into two columns for the final move to Baghdad and C Squadron acted as advance—guard to Kingcol which formed the southern column. After capturing Khan Nuqta Fort and taking several prisoners it came under heavy fire and Rupert had to advance across open desert to bring his Vickers machine guns to bear on the enemy, forcing them to withdraw.

Another attack was necessary next day before the Squadron could cross the Tigris and enter Baghdad.

The following month, June 1941, 1 HCR led the advance on Palmyra and the occu—

Command during the Regiment’s march to Teheran to link up with the Russians and open the southern supply route to the Soviet Union.

After the Regiment’s return to Jerusalem in October 1941 he was employed in staff appointments in 8th Army in the Western Desert until he returned to the United Kingdom in June 1943. After a year serving at home he went to North West Europe and spent two further years on the staff, including being Town Major for a time in Belgium. When the ceremonial role was being reintroduced at Knightsbridge, he commanded The Life Guards Squadron in its early days before retiring from the Army in 1948.

By then aged 51 he was very much the kind father figure to his junior officers, with his slow mile and twinkle in the eye. He was a horsemaster and his expert knowledge of stable management kept us on our toes. The occasional chance to exercise his charger was an education in the joy of a really well— schooled horsed, but Colonel Ru, as we disrespectfully called him, had a style all his own and his horizontally-projected elbows operating like pump-handles caused the men to whistle, and the band to play, The Farmer’s Boy, when he came down the yard to Stables.

After his second retirement, he lived in the Pytchley country at Spratton and continued to enjoy his hunting with them, the Cottesmore and the Quorn until he was over 80, sharing his love of horses with Didi, his wife, who was a very good horsewoman and judged sidesaddled classes after the war. He was very keen on racing and was for a long a Steward at Towcester. He was a good shot and stalked for many years. He will be long remembered by us and sadly missed by Didi, Rosemary, Richard and

his grandchildren.

He was recalled from the Reserve by Colonel Ferris St George in 1953 as Second in Command at Knightsbridge and, after the Coronation and the move of Headquarters Household Cavalry to Horse Guards, he took command of the Mounted Squadrons, later to be desig— nated the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

“Now the lad which was, And the farm now has, Often thinks and smiles with joy, And will bless the day He came that way To be a Farmer’s Boy’.;

were still on solid wheels. As Technical Adjutant Roddy became responsible for setting up driving and maintenance courses as few men in a cavalry regiment in those days knew how to drive or had any knowledge of the inside of an engine. This was a major task, but worse was to come for Roddy when the Regiment, barely two months later, was put on two weeks notice to be opera— tionally ready to move to Iraq, where a pro—German faction had occupied Baghdad and where German aircraft had already landed in Mosul. Therefore when the Regiment left Palestine to cross the desert for Iraq on 1 May 1941, it was in fact setting out on the first of three successful campaigns, the second to support the Free French against the

Vichy French in Syria and the third to move back across Iraq and into Persia to join up with the Russians in Teheran, thus helping to secure all that part ofthe Middle East against any further German aggression.

Roddy now became a key figure in all these operations. Moving always in the rear of the column with his small group of mechanics (usually with no protection from marauding Iraqis keen for a bit of spoil), picking up our broken down vehicles, repairing some on the spot and towing others, always arriving in leager hours after the Regiment, and then repairing them in the dark ready to move next day.

The problems that Roddy was faced with throughout these moves are too many to describe here, but many were overcome by his ability to

obtain from wherever he could, and by whatever means, spare parts, tyres and even captured Iraqi and French vehicles, to replace those 15 cwts which were no longer serviceable. History even has it that he commandeered a Haifa taxi as

the CO’s staff car for the initial move across the desert into Iraq. By the time the Regiment has returned to Palestine after six months of almost continuous movement the average distance covered by each vehicle was around 6000 miles.

For a Technical Adjutant responsible for keeping the Regiment mobile, this was an outstanding achievement on his part.

After the Regiment returned to Pales— tine, mechanised training continued under Roddy’s supervision until the Regiment finally became an operational armoured car regiment in time to take part in the battle of El Alamein and oth— ers thereafter. Roddy, having played his part in the Regiment’s conversion from horses to armoured cars, continued to serve with the Regiment until the end of the war, first as Second in Command of a squadron and then as Squadron Leader.

Roddy had many other excellent quali— ties as a serving officer and was a popular and much respected member of the Regiment. Curiously Roddy also had

the rare and unusual gift of foresight.

On one occasion while travelling on a train from Aleppo to Beirut he suddenly told the occupants of his compartments to take their luggage down from the racks and lie on the floor as the train was

going to crash. A little later three carriages were indeed derailed and a number of people killed.

After the war Roddy went to work at Lloyds and later started his own broking firm and members agency, specialising in equine cover.

In January 1945 when the Regiment returned to England after four and half years in the Middle East and before setting off to join in the advance in North West Europe, Roddy married Ursula Wyndham Quin. He leaves a son, Adrian, and a daughter, Zara, to whom we send our deepest sympathy.

Major The Lord Roderic Pratt late The Life Guards

Captain STC Hanbury

by Colonel W H Gerard Leigh CVO OBE formerly The Life Guards

late the Life Guards

By Colonel J D Smith-Bingham, formerly The Blues and Royals

oddy Pratt died peacefully after a hort illness on the 30 May 1997 aged 81. He was a widower, his wife,

Ursula, having died four years before.

sued the many sporting activities expected of subalterns in those days. He played polo and was a member of the regiment’s subalterns’ team, hunted, and in particular was a successful amateur jockey winning amongst other races

After going to Eton he went up to Cam-

a Grand National trial at Gatwick and a bridge. While there we both whipped in to John Nevill (now Lord Abergavenny)

who was Master of the University Drag.

By coincidence, all three of us were

shortly to join The Life Guards.

In those few years before the war, Roddy a keen and accomplished horseman pur-

Military Handicap Chase at Sandown.

It was therefore a surprise to some of us when on the outbreak of war he was appointed to a new post for a cavalry regiment, that of Transport Officer and later Technical Adjutant. Little did we realise then what an important post that

would turn out to be and how well Roddy would carry it out.

In January 1940 Household Cavalry Regiment, having been formed as a composite regiment of The Life Guards and The Blues when war was declared, moved to Palestine and became part of the First Cavalry Division. It was not

imon Hanbury died on May 30 last Syear. He was born in 1944, the son of Captain T F] Hanbury, also of The Life Guards, and was educated at Ludgrove and Eton. He was not a great academic but was Keeper of the Field and an exceptional athlete, winning many school competitions. After Eton he went abroad and taught in Chile before returning to Mons He and then joining his Regiment.

until March 1941, however, that it finally handed in its horses and became a motorised cavalry regiment mounted in

served in Cyprus and Borneo in addition

ancient 15 cwt trucks, some so old they

to Windsor and London.

He left The Life Guards in 1969 and after a varied career in both banking and stock broking he became a Director of White Horse Distillers; he was made responsible for their operations in Latin America, the Far East and the Iberian Peninsular. In 1989 he set up and was General Manager of United Distillers in Portugal. In 1993 he was seconded by them to the Department of Trade and Industry to advise companies who were trading in that area.

Obituaries 100 Obituaries

101

Simon, always elegant and immaculately turned out, was one of those individuals

who possessed the powerful combina— tion ofexceptional charm with a marvellous sense of humour, considerable sporting prowess and success in busi— ness helped by a flair for languages. He was a talented horseman both in the hunting field and on the polo ground, a

member of The Life Guards team when they won the inter~regimental in 1968 and also in the team that won the Smith’s Lawn Cup in 1972.

Three years ago he inherited Casa Nir-

vana, a part of the beautiful Hanbury Botanical Gardens, one of the finest on the Italian Riviera. With his usual skill, Simon flung himself into restoring the house and garden with great energy and enthusiasm, as well as working as a con— sultant for Garcia Wine Company. It all seemed too good to be true and indeed that was the case. He began suffering from back aches which he initially attributed to an excess of outdoor work; however it was in fact the onset of can—

cer which eventually, after a year of courageous battling, cost Simon his life.

He is greatly missed by all his many friends but none more than by his wife Carolyn and his children Serena, Melissa and Jonathan to whom we all extend much sympathy over their sudden and tragic loss.

Nominal Rolls as at December 1997

HEADQUARTERS HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY Horse Guards

Windsor

Col 1’ S W F Falkner: Comd H Cav Lt Col (Retd)] S Olivier: Regtl Adjt

RESERVE OFFICERS The Life Guards

The Blues and Royals

Mai C H N Graham

Capt T C Boles

Mai (Retd) A W Kersting: Museum Capt R Hennessey-Walsh: CDC

SSgt Lewis R D. RLC: Chief Clerk Maj The Hon M R M

Capt C M B Daly

Watson

Capt M C Goodman

Capt A C Ogden

Capt E B S Mountain

Lt S R Sporborg

Capt] B Poole Capt C R F Ward-Thomas

LCOH Cordwell L: Driver

Regimental Corporal Major ]ock Neill late The Royal Horse Guards

THE HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY REGIMENT

By Brigadier The Duke Of Wellington KG MC OBE MA DL formerly The Royal Horse Guards

Headquarters Squadron

RHQ It has been my happy experience over the years to know many fine Warrant

Officers and NCOs in the Household Cavalry, especially of course in The Blues, but I can think of no—one for whom I had a greater affection and respect than ex-RCM Neill. By pure coincidence I happen to remember his arrival at Windsor as a young recruit a few days after the war started. It was a busy time. Reservists were returning, recruits were coming in and, to complicate matters, drafts of horses were con— stantly arriving at the Southern Railway Station at Windsor.

Nevertheless, I remember seeing a fine looking young man called Neill whom someone told

me was the latest member of his family

and always the first to point out extenu—

Lt Col BWB White—spunner

ating circumstances for some unfortu—

Maj GGE Stibbe

nate miscreant who had got into trou— ble. In short, ]ock Neill was a very fine Warrant Officer and my great regret is that, of his own choice, he decided not to go on in the Army as a Commis— sioned Officer, nor as RSM at Sand— hurst which he turned down. There were many times in Cyprus when we shared moments, both of stress and light-heartedness, and I particularly remember the latter as I recall with great pleasure the fun we both got sometimes out of dealing with awkward situations. At the end of his service in Cyprus in 1958 he received a well deserved ‘Mention in Dispatches’.

Capt SA Tomes Capt ]RDBarnard W01 (RCM) Lindsay WR

SHQ Maj C A Lockhart

W02 (SCM) Harris A M P SCpl Grantham SM LCOH Turnbull P] LSgt Gregory RM (AGC) Tpr Hancock ]E

Unfortu-

nately we did not serve together during the war as he was in 2 HCR and I in l HCR but, as soon as the war was over, we found ourselves serving together culminating in those years of active ser— vice in Cyprus in the 50’s when, as Commanding Officer of The Blues, I had the good fortune to have Mr Neill

as my RCM for two years.

Active service throws up problems not normally encountered in peacetime sol— diering but he carried out his considerable responsibilities with the same skill, wisdom and humour as he coped later

with the very different problems of being the RCM at Knightsbridge; always assertive but never officious,

always a disciplinarian but never unfair,

I have mentioned briefly our service together in Cyprus but of course ]ock Neill had a distinguished career in NW Europe with ZHCR. After rapid promotion he found himself CoH of Z Troop ‘A’ Squadron, a troop which ‘made its name’ in 1944 by securing an important bridge over the Somme. As a result of ]ock Neill’s initiative the German bridge blowing unit was neutralised and the bridge saved. Subsequently his troop was one ofthe first to enter Brussels.

Capt ]AM Course SCpl Miles DM

Pte Smith C

Chefs

QM(T) Department CoH Wills DC Capt O Sackett W02 NicholsonCI SCpl Plater IM LCoH Ibbotson T LCpl ]ones CC LCpl Marsh A LCpl Spares S] Tpr Coupland S] Pte Burford (AGC)

Families CoH Kirkpatrick I MBE

Officers’ Mess

SCpl ShatliffT CoH Walker PG CoH Robertson KW CoH Lowe ]ML LCpl Carrington D LCpl Robson DH ]ock Neill met his wife in Berlin in 1950 where she was serving in the Control Commission. They were married for 45 devoted years and the Regiment shares with her the loss of a great Household Cavalryman. I look back on our service together with great nostalgia and mourn him as an old and dear friend.

LCpl Short ADW LCpl Stainsby G

LCpl Gilliespie SA LCpl Greensmith MR Tpr Cook NW Tpr Costain MO Tpr Smith D A Tpr Vick A Tpr Wyborn SGK

Capt] S Holbrook SCpl Cowton K N

CoH Ablott M LCOH Beaumont MN LCpl Clancy L LCpl Cox G LCpl Lofts NA Tpr Campbell MP Tpr Corway MA Tpr Deick GA Tpr Goater SM Tpr Harvey MA Tpr Lindsay D

Dental centre Mai P Johnson LCpl Crummey

QMS DEPARTMENT Capt MA Harding W02 Maher VP CoH Birch G CoH Vaughan SDM LCoH Edwards K LCoH Hooper MA

LAD Capt Gordon-Sawers W01 Harvey A

CoH SmithIM

WOZ Griffiths IS

Tpr HulseCE Tpr Drury N Tpr Bushall WGL

SSgt King N SSgt Patey IM SSgt Pidhaieckyi Sgt Bradbury M Sgt Brooks Sgt Cook SG Sgt Hawkins SA Sgt Ingle Sgt McClure N Sgt Osborn LSgt Blackett LSgt Godfree PA LSgt Hughes SM LCpl Chamberlain LCpl Clark LCpl Cropper LCpl Hayward SB LCpl Mayes A LCpl Poole M LCpl Probert D LCpl Williams Cfn Fitzsimmons AD Cfn HarmanCP Cfn ]ohnson S

Recruiting Team Capt D Pickard CoH Hastings GK

APTC SSGT Ward CoH Wells AS

Admin

Lt WPF Bye WOl O’Donnel

LCpl Wareing N

LCpl ]ones GD LCpl Donnachie V]

W0 & NCO Mess

Capt MMT Burton»Doe

Surg Maj C O’Kane LSgt Dodsworth S LCpl Southall G]

W02 Humpreys Sgt Eachus DC Sgt ]ones P LSgt Johnston 1] LSgt Nash ]B LSgt Thorne RD LCpl Bateson D] LCpl Garraway P

LCpl Griffiths M SCpl Farmer AP LCpl Mardon AD LCpl Wyard SM

MT TROOP

Capt AB Methven

Sgt Francis G] LSgt Andrews DK LCpl Wymant SR

Provost

Medical Centre After Cyprus ]ock Neill became RCM at Knightsbridge. As such I saw him reg— ularly as I was Silver Stick at the time and I remember the distinction with which he carried the Sovereign’s Standard on State occasions.

Trg Wing

Command Troop

to join The Blues carrying on a tradition going back five generations to the

middle of the last century.

LCoH Wheatley LCoH Winter MW LCpl Peet MD LCpl Stickland

W02 (RAOWO) Hyland BR SSgt Moore M SSgt Lindsay-Smith MR Sgt Street MD Sgt Seabright K

Nominal Rolls 102 Obituaries

103

A Squadron The Life Guards

SHQ Mai C N Mitford Slade

Capt P A Turner W02 Barry R CoH Thomas P]

LCoH Taylor I A LCpL Pickard S J LCpL Vost P Tpr Beaumont A M

Tpr Chinn S L Tpr Dowsett G K Tpr Harris S A Tpr Hooson - Owen G D Tpr Metcalf L A

LCpL Holloway D L LCpL Plant S A

Admin 'Il'oop

Tpr Bridges K R Tpr Bromfield R Tpr Cunniffe T D Tpr Holden N J

Tpr Leslie E C Ptr Mckeown P D

SCpL Kingston M E W LCpL Wood D A Tpr Garrad M Tpr Murgatroyd D J Tpr Macdonald A P Tpr Stay M J

Tpr Catterall NT Tpr Tucker P Tpr Ingham RD

LCoH Kellet AP LCOH Lythe P LCOH Vernon NJ LCOH Jukes ch1 Smith D

chl Saunders N Tpr Burgess JF

Tpr Docherty CWC

l Troop

Tpr Vick H R Tpr Tillin D M

Tpr Hubbard AE Tpr Ingham RD Tpr Lerwill DJ

Lt Z N Catsaras CoH Stevenson D LCOH Heaton L C

Tpr Johnson F] Tpr Dellaney D D

3 Troop

LCoH Irwin J S LCpL Ashton N P

LAD

LCpL Stafford G T Tpr Allport W P

Tpr Spink S C

SSgt Pratt] P Sgt Mew J R C LSgt Bolton C C LSgt Codd B LCpL Keogh F J LCpL Murphy] J

Tpr Webber K I F

LCpL Nixon M

Tpr Glaister M

Cfn Johnson A E C

Tpr Brook A J Tpr Bryant C A Tpr Mitchinson D J

2 Troop

2Lt PW Hanbury-Bateman CoH Hodder SJ LCoH Simpson DJ LCOH Cornock O

LCoH Yeomans M LCpl Garton PD Tpr Beswick CB Tpr Bradshaw JD Tpr Byrne SJ Tpr Creed A

Tpr Greenfield NS B Squadron The Life Guards

GW Troop

LCOH Gardner G C LCoH Matthews S R

SHQ

2Lt JH Blount

LCpL Carrington P J

Maj RRD Griffin Capt S Rhodes—Stampa

Capt W J P Simpson - Gee CoH Core J P

Tpr Butler J S Tpr Hagan N S Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr

Laverty R A Rigby P Ryan K J Wood D M

3 Troop

CoH Tovell A D W LCOH Farrimond S P LCOH Knowles S G

LCoH Tennant G A LCpL Brown R M

CoH Horner D C LCoH Elliott C LCoH Gardner A C LCoH Johnson R M LCoH Mackay S H LCpl Hutton Pte Bartholomew P L Tpr Berry S E Tpr Blackburn I P Tpr Jones W Tpr Leslie Tpr Spencer C A J Tpr Steed M

1 Troop Lt 0 M Bedford CoH Pickford S R LCOH Foster W R LCoH Jones G E LCOH Pearse T LCpl Bulman C W LCpl Parks G J Tpr Bullen C H Tpr Holden N J Tpr Ingram-Mitchell S J Tpr Mackintosh M A

2 Troop

CoH Howie DJ

LCoH Wilson D LCoH Bell M

Tpr Nixon P Tpr Watchorn PB

LCoH Cirghton C D LCOH Hooker L P LCpl Hodgson S H Tpr Lever M Tpr Lidbetter M D Tpr McWhirter Tpr Parr M H Tpr Smith B Tpr Stones R J

chl Forte MM ch1 Basset AT ch1 Rowan Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr

Finney IM Goddard P Forsdick JR Thompson KJ Hadley JR

Pte Winterburn AC

1 Troop

GW Troop

W02 Ford H CoH Elliott C

Lt P R T Stucley

Tpr Dibb J G

Ct J Bellman LCoH Gallighar R C LCOH Galvin A J LCoH Rees D A

LCOH Byrne J J

CoH Gibbons S F CoH Smith N

Tpr Walker LA

Hall N B Johnson C W Jones C A MaCrae I E

LCOH Anderton

Tpr Allford A Tpr Blake M R Tpr Driver P

Tpr Anderson WJ Tpr Murray P

W02 Tate A R CoH Curson AD

LCpL Green C A LCpL Moore R Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpe

LCOH Telling DJ Maj T E Thorney croft Capt A D Dick

LCoH McMillan F] LCoH Conway AP

Admin Troop

Tpr Dimbylow SC Lt T A D Cape

LCoH Lochrane] L

Ct D I Scott

Scpl Maunder KJ LcoH Brown D LcoH Clubley CL LcoH Stewart PA ch1 Scott BL Tpr Hanson PG

LAD

2Lt JG Rees — Davies CoH Paternotte TBC LCOH Swinburne RG LCOH Smith GV ch1 Gibson BK chl Oliver DA Tpr Birch DN Tpr Gray DJ Tpr Haith BD

LCOH Hemming N LCpl Shaw Tpr Bray M F W

Tpr Eaton L G Tpr Grant R A Tpr Marriott A S Tpr Nolan L T Tpr Williams C D

Ssgt Wilson J] Sgt Cunningham A Lsgt Ashover K Lsgt Bates SR Lsgt Bolton Lsgt Holloway M] LCpl Taylor GM

Cfn Wigley AB Cfn Winndle C]

Burton I P Johnson Parker S Williams G C

3 Troop

Tpr Newman J L D

Lt L A Brennan CoH Snell B LCOH Barnard R D LCOH Gallagher LCOH Findell RJ

Tpr Selway A C

LCpl Wall N J E H

Tpr Glaister M A

Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr

Tpr Clarke R S

Adein Troop 1 Troop SCpl Voyce D C LCoH Hemming M A LCOH Ward] C LCpl Bemtley R M LCpl Kincaid M

Lt Trietline CoH Hiscock D R LCOH Barret S B LCOH Webster—Smith K J

Cane RJ Blair D C Roper Taylor Terry Williamson A

4 Troop

LCpl Bell G A

LAD

LCpl Davies S Tpr Daley D P Tpr Dormer G Tpr Imeson Tpr Smith A] Tpr Smith M B Tpr Whelan L F

SSgt Rogers D A Sgt Bradbury S A LSgt Allen G I LSgt Esplin C P LSgt Vietch I A LCpl Cropper N J Cfn Blunn J M Cfn Thorndyke J

2 Troop

D Squadron The Blues and Royals SHQ Troop Maj G V Woyka Capt R R Philipson—Stow

Lt M C Antelme CoH Bowtell A D LCOH Fortune K LCOH Martin W LCpl Bestwick M P LCpl Chell R]

LCpl Sharpe R D Tpr Blockley G

Lt P A Bedford CoH Fermor LCOH Trinick Cpl Morton LCpl Tate LCpl Oliver D A LCpl Oliver (RDG) Tpr Gerrard Tpr Lewis C K J Tpr Johnson Tpr Moffat J A Tpr Tillen

GW Troop

LCpl Haresign R H Tpr Attwood M Tpr Cane M A Tpr Dyke S Tpr Kinsey Tpr Lingard J A Tpr Sandy R Tpr Trencher C J

Admin Troop SCpl Harris S K CoH Mackenzie LSgt Fidler N S LSgt Jervis P

LCoH Shields J LCpl Darby C G LCpl Greenall LCpl Simkins A D LCpl Lewis P LCpl Naylor J Tpr Harwood Tpr Frampton Pte Birchall J R

LAD Ssgt Snell K B Sgt Brooks N Sgt Ingle J LSgt Chambers J P LSgt Downton C LSgt Tinniswood A LSgt Hindley D LSgt Cassidy Cfn Chambers G Cfn Soroka M W

Lt S W D Costello CoH Carrington D W LCoH Pass J

THE HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY MOUNTED REGIMENT Regimental HQ

1 Troop

Lt Col H S J Scott Capt G W Howson W01 (RCM) Manning R P LCpl Fitzgerald Tpr Cromie D K

Capt C E O Allerton CoH Bridges D A P

Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr

CoH Miller G B LCOH Davidson B W

2 Troop

Ravenscroft D J Scott C J Smyth L B Taylor D J

LCOH Taylor S B

Tpr Darlington L

Capt A Lawrence CoH Goodwin S J CoH Parkinson J C CoH Poynter K J LCoH Stokoe A L LCoH Weston C A S LCpl Cooper M LCpl Forte M M LCpl Mount W H

Tpr Dove] R

LCpl Pettipher A P LCpl Radford A LCpl Williams S F H Tpr Adamson S M

Tpr Stevenson V C

Tpr Flood M P N Tpr Jordan A Tpr Lancaster K J Tpr Marriott A Tpr Munnis R A

Tpr Stockill RJ

Tpr Porter A J

Tpr Wharton G

Tpr Porter L G

The Life Guards Squadron 3 Troop Ct R H A Lewis CoH Musgrave R A LCoH Carr] B LCoH Johnson S LSgt Riley M W LCpl Amos R D LCpl Anderson L i LCpl Brown S Tpr Eulert C A Tpr Jones M A Tpr Queen E C Tpr Timney S

Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr

LCOH Brown D

Tpr Ship S CoH Bonner NA

Tpr Featherstone A R

SHQ Troop 2 Troop Lt RAH Peasgood

GWTroop

W02 Norris M J W CoH Cox D W CoH Peat A D CoH Reade

C Squadron The Blues and Royals

LCpl Hammond D K LCpl Jacobs S M LCpl McCauley J S LCpl Tiffoney T J

SHQ

LCpl Watkins G A Tpr Armstrong R T

Maj J D A Gaselee Capt] H F Fuller W02 Lanahan P C SCpl Coleman D M LCOH Allum P W LCpl Royston M R LCpl Le Gallais A]

Tpr Clark P W Tpr Crawford]

Tpr Coupe T

Tpr Benfield D W Tpr Blakeway L G Tpr Brown P L Tpr Connell J W

Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr

Every] M Gannon J S Hare P Iddon J J Jacobi C E

Tpr Kidd L R Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr Tpr

Looker P J Mountford R A Prest W H Thompson M T Wenn G D Weman D W

3 Troop Capt RJ C D Phelps CoH Gray I M CoH Stewart N M LCOH Hayes M T LCoH Hoggarth] S LCoH Parkinson D LCpl Canning K J P LCpl Moore S R Tpr Adamson P

Nominal Rolls

104 Nominal Rolls

105

Tpr Bassett G S Tpr Bysouth A G Tpr Collier P A

LCpl Cain T R LCpl Downing T] LCpl Harrison C P

LC 1W d M “3130:5138 L J

Tpr Gibbs C S Tpr Gray B J

LSgt Livel ' P] LCpl WhitZy] M LC 1 Ho an S L

Tpr HpggJ A

LCpl McNamara K Tpr Abbott D B Tpr

PtepBeartigJ E C Pte Rayner L J LCpl Gilligan

Office's' Mess

BodycoaI M

MA

HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY OFFICERS AT ERE

THE LIFE GUARDS P]HQ Norwood

Maj Gen T J Sulivan CBE

ACE RAPID Reaction Corps

Lt Col W S G unghty

PJHQ Norwood

Col PB Rogers

NATO HQ Turkey 18 (E) PJHQ

Tpr Lindsay M P

Tpr Bovey P J

Tpr McAleney A D

Tpr Callinan S P

Tpr Parry R G

Tpr Crowther s G

Tpr Perry] A

Tpr Edmond D]

Mai H R G Carruthers

Tpr Pratt A D J Tpr Shenton M] TI): 211213131851] E S

Tpr Fletcher N Tpr Griffiths S W Tpr gaydelxg R C

woz Wright G A FCOH Newman S J FLCDH Adams C D

Tgr Sfafford ‘A D

Tpr pr Lunt eWIS RI]

FLCOH BainbrldgeJJ FLCoH Cox-Rusbrl dge S A F

CoH Halfhide P]

Tpr Stafford D D

Tpr Lutherborrow D M

Tpr Waite C T

Tpr Millington M C

5:835 flfigfi‘gfffd

LCoH Hitchcock J D

The Blues And Royals Squadron

Tpr Purser] A Tpr Russell B Tpr Sherlock N

FLCOH Casey S D LS M “4%:th égirerlngK G

LCpl Ireland M R T r Ramsey p ‘

Capt H R D Fullerton Capt T E G Kenyon Capt M Whatley

SHQ

Tpr Uglow T Tpr W315}! L J

FLC 1 P COHTOY P D FLCpl Gammage S D

Guard 0 1' 0m

Ma,- TPRDaniel

3 Troop

Efiggfifgfegfifir

eon spandleyl P

scpl Atkinson p C Forge

Capt ] E A lugs—Chambers

W02 Maxwell P G SCPI Hams P D

Capt M P Goodwin—Hudson CoH Brockhursl C R

LCOH Youn D p

Lt C01 A P De Rm“

MOD HQ D ‘3‘ T

C01 W R R0110

T

Lt Col J R Bayley

MOD M04

Col H P D Massey

DA Buenos Aire

L1 C01 C S K Anderson

AGC Trg GP

Lt Col W T Browne

RMAS

Mai Mai Maj Maj

MOD SMO DERA MOD MDSl HQ 42 (NW) Bde MOD - Army Plans

Lt Col F G S Lukas Lt Col P] Tabor, LVO Maj S H Cowan Maj G M D McCullough

MOD CIS MOD LWlA DG D&D COS Reece Bd Def School of Languages

Maj A] Mead

Bowman Military Trials Team

Capt S St M Miller

Ma], J R Wheeler

HQ Lon Dist

Staff College Canadian

Lt Col D A O’Hanoran

SHAPE

RMAS BATUS ATR Pirbright

Capt P F Streeton Lt W Bartle—Jones Lt M D Swetman

Lulworth

’3 pr Mackenzie A H

WOS’ and NCOS’ Mess

LCOH Dewe

FLCPI Tum“ T D F Medical centre

Ifcfigiifls‘fiisg

ECELTESJABD

Tgr Young] A

LCoH Gaddes A R]

Mai C M Stone

1 Troop

LCoH McCormaCk S J LCpl Ansell D W

Surg Hastings G K LCpl Ball M

Capt L E A Chauveau

LCpl Faiers 1) M LCpl Goodwin R A

Tpr Royston D L Tpr Ryan J P

PRL Huflter D C Waterhouse E A Smylh-Osbourne M C V311 der Lande

HOUSEHOLD CAVALRY SOLDIERS AT ERE

LCpl James D H s LCpl Scott P S

1 Gren Gds l Regt AAC

LCpl Hodge K] LCoH Squire LD

LCpl Smith C A

259 Sig Sqn

LCoH McCartney N

C Sqn QOY

W02 Stanworth JK

CoH McCarley A

LCoH Varley N]

C Sqn RY

SCpl

CoH

LC 1 Swift G P

CATC

MT

4 CTT 5 Regt AAC

CoH COH

Foster] Bright M

DAC

SCpl Rendell RE] W02 BOYd DR

w01 Jeram KS W02 Pilchowski GW

Brooke TJD

LCoH Bye CE

W02 Willacy Fs

CoH Everett 8 A

7 CTT

CoH

LCoH Bayley T J

9 Sig Reg:

LCoH Couling M

{SE01}; groin T 1%: G C

Tpr CBzrowrliJ GIJD F

Maj I Sanderson

LCOH Mackay 1

A Sqn DY

chl Hai‘ifmldlrig; C R

TE: Diriigugehee M G

W02 WangOd R G

LCpl Kendle D H B LCpl Petford D D

Tpr Galbraith C S Tpr Gibson ] W

SCpl Hunter D LCOH Adams C A

LC°H Miller M LCpl Camp I G

AFCO B

LCpl Salmon P

Tpr Gladish D M

LCOH Chambers RI

LCpl Wood M W Tpr Brown M P Tpr Broxholme D T

- SD Tpr Gledhlll Tpr Holt P M Tpr Ireland P G

LCOH Hackman R C LCOH Jenkins D A LCpl Broom J R

Tpr Carmichael ] R

Tpr Metcalf K

LCpl Knaggs J D K

Tpr C00per A A S

Tpr Newton P W

LCpl Ame“

Tpr Early C M

Tpr Parker] ]

LCpl Semezyszyn P E

Tpr Eastick J A

Tpr Santi M A

LCpl Wllhams C A

$1): $223,25ng

$1): $123523 P

QM’s Department

Tpr He es M R

Tpr Tudball A N

Tpr Hoiton T A

Tpr Wri ht D A

Capt} T Lodge

g

W02 N H B urns

R

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P

TS: 83653:; RJP Tpr Shearer K R

S

d

qua r011 SHQ

LCpl Connor K N

ournemglitH

LCpl Wood J _

Smithers SF

DEF Sch Tpt

Carey SM

SCpl Smith T

LCOH Penn A

COH

HQ ARRC Reece Bde i ‘ SCpl Postance Jc p 1 0 d 1 C H D u 13 MR a ace r er 16$ 0 0 g S COH Freeman KR

Maj N D Garrett

LCoH Auld G D

W02 Dodson N

LCoH Fearnley I M LCOH Mackenzie 5 I

SC 1 Coles M SCpl Well I 1J1

LCpl Mitchell D C V

LCOH SCOVCH A M

2 Troop

Tpr Sharpe J J

Capt H F Whitbread

RAO

LCoH Slingsby P D LCOH Twyman P LCoH Walker N K LCoH Wilson D

ATR Pirbright

HQ Londist

LCoH Whiting BJ SCpl Peers NRH

W02 Sandercock JM

ICU (NI)

W02 Burbidge A

JSG (NI)

SCI)1

KOYYW)

SCPI Flynn D

SCpl Kibble LJ

2C3

CDrossdP M1133;

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LCpl Plimmer W A LCpl Stevens M B

Camp SG

LC°H Payne D]

CoH Avison MA COH

:ngH {lenklbnls NI’D

RMLY WOlKidd KR

QDG

Smilh DBC 0 S

RAC Centre

W02 Carpenter TM

RAC D&M School

Benge S

.

ena es

RSC L1Chfield LCOH Hughes AB

f d

LCpl Smart D A

Musn Hughes A N

LCOH Dutton B ]

LCpl Walters G W

Musn Hlnchllffe V T

COH Hfflde“ T 1 COH Mmhe“ PI LCoH Allison P T LCoH Griffiths N L

W02 G. 68 I 0 Ylav R M W 2 (“mg SCPI Lazenbury P D

LCoH Goodchild N J LCoH Matthews J

LCpl Wheeler G W LCpl Whybrow M P

Musn Isherwood D L Musn Jarvis P C

LC H Pearson K A

Musn Bowen N D

Musn Riseley N G

5CD] WOOdhOUSCJ

L 01 K‘ Lia;

CoH Allen RM

LCP

CoH Carson P]

LCpl M3113] N L

CoH Cook 0 N

LCpl Semkln G]

I C l M Th

Sgt Hunter A M LSgt Christen-Greet D

W02

Kitching MR

COH White N A

LCOH Hunt N J M

LCoH MCGarry] E LCOH Overton T L

‘

W01 Cooper T]

LCpl Clare] A LCpl Freeman W C

SCpl Flanagan TJF McKechnie Pl

CoH

Maj M 1 Torrent

er

p

Maj T R Spry

LCpl Edisbury D

Valentine RA

KS LCpl Newell .

Burton LCOH LCoH Walbrook CA5 N' h 11 SRA

Hvett SP

THE BAND OF THE LIFE GUARDS

LCOH Brown L P

SSgt Wood 0 H

Simpson PW

W01 “may JS WOZ Harris SK

CoH

en« rau ur

W02 Haywood C T COH Wharton R D

W02 O’Daly K M BEM

W02

ny SK

o

Tpr Williams A

LCoH Goodall D A

OConnor RD

LCpl

SCpl Mills T

LCoH Ireton A D

CoH RAC Signals School WOl

ATDU

C 1

C

RAC Gnry Wing Hohne

ARRC Sp Bn

Sgt McKee S

0

COH ]A Sykes SJ COH Mills

Ingram TH

COH LCpl

SSgt Baxter T A

apt

Dear AM

.

Dixon T Horne P]

Mas‘e‘ Chef

HCTW M G H ld C

RAC Gmy school W01 Dunkley M

LCoH Pearson DJ Dhekelia Garrison W02

AFCO Manchester

T B Tpr BlggS 1M P pr rown

Tpr Walker C A

CoH Welsh S R

SCpl

AFCO B‘rm‘“gh§$I}:1 Kers h aw ED

SCpl Button A A

COH Hadden M]

Tpr Smallbone R H

.

Armourer

CoH Brown G R COH Goodwin M

Moore KR

W02 Harlow PN SCpl Carter DS

Riding Staff

T

Elliot L]

CoH Addis JC LCoH Bundy JP

LCpl Harrington B D M

Headquarters

SCpl Cripps AG CoH Fisher G

3 Regt AAC 3 RHA

LCpl Stafferton R K

Tpr O’Riordan C ]

SCpl Freeman SCpl Stillwell IM

p

CoH Moore G P

p

8 Inf Bde RAC Centre

M

CoH Dixon D

p McEndoo R M Tpe

THE BLUES AND ROYALS

C01] W M Ellery

‘ p

C

F line

Tpr Ramsden C D Tpr Royston D R

I

COH W

PC

If

Musn Cam D R M

Musn Taylor DJ

Musn DiArCV P

Musn West TS

Musn Sturgeon I R

E‘ [CS-E] N

M usn

“C

Musn Haggerty

M

C

Nominal Rolls 106 Nominal Rolls

107

THE BAND OF THE BLUES AND ROYALS Capt R Owen

LCoH Hughes LCoH Gough LCpl Redman LCpl Collin LCpl Thomas LCpl Groves LCpl Marsh LCpl Jones LCpl Sparks Musn Hodges Musn Witter Musn Hume Musn Kent

W01 Brigden

W02 Hayward W02 Billington

SCpl Francis SCpl Kitching COH Haddock CoH Paine CoH Howe CoH Purnell COH Mitchell LCoH Whitfield LCoH Milne

Musn Musn Musn Musn Musn Musn Musn Musn Musn Musn Musn

Tulip Screen Carnell Thomas Speight King Ravenscroft Stroud Pithers Andrews Bishop

The Household Cavalry Association - Dorset Annual Report of the Dorset “Support” Squadron President: Major General Lord Michael Fitzalan-Howard, GCVO, CB, CBE, MC. Colonel of The Life Guards and Gold Stick.

Chairman: Ray Peck, formerly LG.

Secretary: Barry Idle, formerly RHG/D.

Ere ‘s a note vrom Darzetfolk,

To keep yun in uz f1 ame, Thuz Grockle hunters season iz almost ere again.

The First Parade of 1997 was the AGM in January. A good number answered roll call at the Savoy Hotel and apart

from one member absent with a touch of

three main officers foolishly made it

with

the

secretary

operating

Annua/ Dinner . Charrrnan and guests Back L to R U (30/ T Mon/s, Mr S Keywonn. Chairman. Capt C Sayer, Ma] Gen Langley Front L to P. Mrs Sayer. Lady Lang/ey. Mrs Peck. Mrs Keywortn.

we all know, a deserted firing point is never a nice place to be on a cold February night.

on

SLIDEX - or so he said - and everyone else on GRIDDLE, a good deal of ‘dressing back’ was in evidence and as

The‘bluish’ side ofthemanbershipoonvetged on

WmcborthenightpriortoCavalrySundaybrthe AGM andAmodation Dinner RayPeckgotso involvedwithonepanioilarstorythathefotgotto drewhisibodprbrtoswallowinghewmquicldy ‘pattedbetter’agaimtanoutsidewallbutunfomi— natelymissedthe‘pundiline’,whidmm-MOLife GuanbandaGtenadierwvhatdseP.

We were extremely honoured when asked to send members to the Regiment for the visit of HM Queen. Our representatives were, chairman Ray Peck and wife Paula, Mike and Sheila Wood and Fred Kettle with wife Audrey. They were all present» ed to Her Majesty and extend their th~nks to everyone at Combermere for making their day so memorable — signed photo’s are available at Information Of flces throughout Dorset.

gout and another having had his walking stick impounded by the wife, we were very nearly ‘grockle and correct sir’. The

With the spring buffet/dance approaching, Warning Orders were much in evidence from early February. However,

April was set aside for those all impor— tant ‘silly season’ preparations. The girls needed time to sort through their wardrobe(s) and apply a little cream to the old veins in readiness for the forth coming marching season. The dress preparation of the male species is somewhat shorter and a good deal less expensive. The 20 year old suit is removed from the traditional ‘light pres’, brushed down and ready to wear in less than 20 minutes.

The following morning saw the traditional parade in Hyde Park at the Cavalry Memorial. At the conclusion of the parade, our membership moved to the RHG/D memorial adjacent to South Carriageway Road, where the Hon Secretary, Barry Idle, laid a wreath in remembrance of those who died.

Treasurer: John Triggs BEM, formerly RHG/D.

known they were happy to continue serving and were re—elected faster than a Wally Pitt haircut - a lot cheaper too.

The committee were then elected and lead by George ‘through the chair’ Hitchman, the team of Doug Feltham, Neil Ford, John Bevan and Peter Wilson were sworn in to champion the cause.

bers and guests anended the evening and the notaWe side attraction was a demonstration of the braking dist~nce of a Range Rover, courtesy of Dave Rushton on the hotel car park It would transpire that flower tubs don’t appear in the ‘user handbook’. All those who attended would like to thank the three ‘Main Men’ for their efforts in organising such a great night.

It was thought less than coincidence that the Buffet/Dance clashed with the secretary’s anniversary, and when he

arrived in a stretch ‘limo’ our worst fears were realised.

Phil Fisk was quickly engaged to write and recite a poem - not necessarily in that order entitled The Idle couple from Hants, copies can only be obtained in Dorset, for obvious reasons. Some 120 mem—

The next cry from the secretary was ‘Beating Retreat on Horse Guards, WAIT OUT!’ instructions duly fol— lowed and a dutiful band of ‘kit tykes’

fell in and headed off for that hallowed expanse of gravel at the end of the Mall.

Most had experienced such parades previously and when the shout went out ‘Cloak Up’ we already had one arm in the mackintosh and thoroughly enjoyed the evening of ‘water music’ that followed.

‘Batt/e Day‘ Bovrngton ‘Otrr Recrurters L to F!‘ Peter Wilson. Fred Keri/e, W02 Pi/cnowskr', Jonn Bevan and George H/tcnman

The Life Guards gathered at Windsor for their traditional post—trooping AGM and Association Dinner and with the Open Day plarmed for 9am the following morning, the barracks was some— what throbbing and bursting at the seams - like the good old days. A first class dinner ensued, with top table guests still arriving when the pudding was served. A fall coach load travelled up for Open Day and again we thank everyone at the regiment for all their hard work we all had a splendid day out.

Our annual ‘Firework Cruise’ started with a BANG! I, when Ray Peck saw the boat he thought he had ordered sail past with another parly on board. The poor company rep’ received both barrels, accompanied by a quick introduction in swearing very loud using only four letter words with ladies present. The replacement craft did not quite measure up - by about 40 feet and two decks - however, undaunted, we pressed on and loaded the smaller boat in priority order, beer, members, crew, buffet and wives. The spectacle of Trevor Collett hanging off the back rail as we sailed towards the setting sun conjures up all sorts of things none of which are printable here. Well done Mr chairman for salvaging the night, long may the event continue.

August saw a return visit to the mountain hideaway of Les Moore (formally LG) in deepest Corfe Mullen. Peter and Gwen Wilson again saw to the arrange ments and the barbecued pig was the highlight of a delicious buffet. Mandy Moore is thanked for manning the car parks, toilets and changing rooms. The temperature in the swimming pool was

such that Maureen Fisk performed in the water for the second year running.

The highlight of the year was the Annual Dinner, some 170 plus attending. We were privileged with the pres— ence of Maj Gen Sir Desmond Langley as our guest of honour along with Lady Langley. Denis Clark read ‘aloud’ the traditional pre dinner Rules for Engagement. Phil Fisk and Barry Idle pressed their necks into the backs of the collar and moved like some kind of . lightening’ in response to Denis having been issued his Bus Pass.

December brought the Hon Treasurer to the fore with his Annual Draw. Over 75% of the membership took part in sell» ing tickets and our thanks to W02 R Carney RHG/D who sold by far the most tickets and a special thank you to John ‘Albert’ Firmie for finding so many sponsors providing such high quality prizes.

Through the efforts of all who assisted we raised over £1000 towards our 20~ armiversary dinner to be held in 2001.

The first prize went to Bob Yates - who else.

The year ended with our own St Nicholas “Taffy” Ford, pulling out all the stops with yet another of his marvellous Christmas functions. A first class evening at the Savoy Hotel for well over 100 placed everyone in good order for the impen&g holiday period. Leave passes signed “B” Idle were issued at around midnight and apart from JT BEM reminding all those prepared to listen, that subs were due on first Parade in January 1998, some happy but tired members trudged out and disappeared into the foggy Bournemouth night.

Feature

108 Feature

109

An Old Warrior’s Profile

l. HCR - Annual Reunion The 51st Annual Reunion of lst Household Cavalry Regiment took place on I‘hursday 9 October 1997 in the WOs and NCOs Mess at Hyde Park Barracks by kind permission of RCM Manning.

by W/illiam john Gilchrist DCM fP CSM formerly Irish Guards en the Guards Association of Queensland gave him and his dear

wife Elsa their official 100 year Birthday Party on 28 September 1997, the great old warrior, Horacr Edgar Bishop, was still going. This was the first opportuni— ty we had to congratulate our very special and loyal member since his official 100

Birthday on 19 September 1997. We held this party in the very beautiful RSL Club at Sandgate to a wonderful four course

lunch and a beautiful Birthday Cake with “Congratulations Ted on Reaching 100 Years of Living”. Our Patron the Right Honorable Sir James Killen KCMG and Lady Killen very kindly honoured us

with the pleasure of their company. Ted sat on Sir James’s right and Elsa sat between Sir James and Lady Killen at a

table for four. Two bunches of Blue—RedBlue flowers one each side of his Birthday Cake were on another small table.

ARRAS. The Battalion was disbanded in January 1918, in a twelve months period they had lost 20 officers, 437 men killed in action in that First World War. The Winters and they soldiers conditions up to their waist in mud, rain and unburied dead were the worst than anything hitherto known in war. Ted was then in 7th Machine Gun Squadron/Household Cavalry Brigade after they moved to the Somme area « Somme Battles cost the Regiment 300 casualties in their first action, then moved to Flanders for a short time and back to Somme area again early in 1918. They lost their horses and the men were re—equipped and trained as machine gun regiments.

So Ted got his second Army No 4335 Guardsman T E Bishop in the 1st Guards Machine Gun Regiment in the Slst Highland Division in the Battle for the

Scarpe 25 Ted at 78 at Comoeremere Barracks Windsor

110 Feature

The President, Brigadier His Grace the Duke of Wellingt on, presided and a total of 84 members and guests enjoyed an excellent Buffet Lunch at which we were also delighted to welcome the Silver Stick, Colonel P S W F Falkner.

A little bit of this old warrior’s history

enforcement’s for the 3rd Battle of After our lunch Sir James was called upon to read out and present the official 100 Birthday congratulations telegrams lst from HM The Queen, 2nd The Governor General of Australia, 3rd The Prime Minister of Australia, 4th The Governor of Queensland, 5th Premier of Queensland, 6th Elizabeth Grace MP, Federal Member of Ted’s Electorate, 7th Adrian West MP, Federal Member of Bowman our Electorate and many many more letters and birthday cards, too numerous to record. I then called upon Sir James to present a large framed photo 40cm x 30cm true copy of this small one of Ted taken at Combermere Barracks, Windsor when he was 18 in 1915 signed on the back by our President and Qld members. I also called upon Lady Killen to present a smaller version framed 7cm x 5cm to Ted’s wife Elsa I also presented Elsa with 3 more 7 x 5 for their one

Photographs of 20th Century Household Cavalrymen.

daughter and 2 sons at the close of our party. I presented Lady Killen with one bunch of Blue-Red—Blue flowers and Elsa Bishop with the second bunch.

over the 100 years. Ted to his many friends was born in Shropshire, England on 19 September 1897, second son to Mr and Mrs Edwin Bishop. Ted grew up and went to school in Tunstal until he was 13.

Then got a job in a sheet and medal works until he was 18 and then enlisted into the 2nd Life Guards as No 3685 Trooper H E Bishop in Combermere Household Cavalry Riding Academy when this 82 year old photo was taken (young Ted looking very smart). Ted was then transferred to the Regiments Machine Gun Battalion in Sussex. There much very hard and constant training.

From there to France in April 1917 as re—

August

WANTED FOR PICTURE ALBUMS

The date of the next Reunion has been arranged for Thursday 15 October 1998 at Hyde Park Barracks when we hope to welcome as many members as possible to another Buffet Lunch.

Invitations will be sent out as usual during August and replies please to the Assistant Honorary Secretary, Mr J R Kerrell, 12 Tenterden Gardens, Croydon, Surrey, CRO 6NL.

x.—

and saw Guards Victory March had a good look around to many Demobed man and no jobs. So he decided to come to Australia on the ship Morton bay llApril 1922 spent 6 years in Melbourne

in sheet metal works. Then to N. SW. for 7 years gold digging but never struck that gold rock. Came up to Brisbane in 1935 met his future wife Miss Elsa Wright and married on 5th April 1937 and got 60 years married Queens congratulations in April 1997. Two Queens congratulations letters for 60 years married and 100 years ofliving just great Ted.

ARE INVITED TO SEND An individual postcard size photo (approx 6x4).

Name and Regiment.

Any Regimental dress and date of photo. (Location) To Arthur W Rowlinson. Ex LG IHCR, Mounted Regiment 21 Gadlas Road, Llysfafn, Colwyn Bay,

2. HCR Annual Lunch Ted & Edna as they are today at home.

PAST 0R PRESENT For eventual lodging in the Regimental Museum.

Any man of either Regiment — Irrespective of rank.

It is hoped to hold a lunch again at Windsor during November. As in previous years “Flyers” will be sent to all members once a date has been confirmed.

Clwyd, LL29 8TD Tel No: 01492 514805

THE GUARDS MAGAZINE The Guards Magazine is published four times a year. It includes up-to-date information on all the Regiments in the Division as well as articles of current and historical interest, photographs, letters etc. smartly produced and easy to read. An excellent way of keeping in touch. The subscription is £16 per year, including postage and packing, for the four copies. Available by cheque or banker’s order from:The treasurer, Household Division Funds, HorseGuards, Whitehall, London SW1

I don’t know another man in the world who could claim that.

W.R Warren Engineering Co. Ltd. Ted worked on sugar cane farms, citrus growing farms and Northgate Golden Circle cannery processing pineapples.

Ted and Elsa have one daughter and two sons, nine grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. They retired to live at Palmwoods Queensland during World War II Ted volunteered for the Australian Defense Corp. and got his 3rd service No Q204813 as T. E Bishop “C” Company Yardina.

Ted has gone through the Masonic lodge and is a life member. He

1918

is also a life member of the Guards

somewhere in all this Ted got two weeks UK leave, after that back to France and after Armistic 11 November 1918 moved Belgium and on one occasion served in 4 different Regiments in 4 different Regiment in 4 different . days. Talk about not having time to unpack your . kit and the Sergeant Major shouting at the double Bishop from Belgium to Yorkshire April 1919 for Demob went to London

Association of Queensland and a life member of the RSL Ted and Elsa now live in the free masons Homes Wakefield Street Sandgate Queensland 4017. I am sure Ted would love to hear from any old cavalry man or old guardsman.

Long may you March into your second Century Ted and God Bless you and Elsa and all members of your family. Yours in friendship, Comradeship and Guardsmanship and thank you for your friendship over the past 17 years.

179 Alma Street, Birmingham. 819 2RL Telephone: 0121 359 2808 Fax: 0121 359 0027

Suppliers ofStainless Steel & Nickel Spurs, Bits and Stimps to the Household Cat/ally Regiment

Bill Gilchrist. 3 October 97

Notices

111

l

Enormous Handkerchief Company

Book Review FOR LOVE OF JUSTICE. The Life ofa Quixotic Soldier Major G Derek Cooper, OBE, MC late LG and 1G by Sir John Baynes, Bt, formerly the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)

100% cotton - 21" square. any Household Cavalrymen and Micks will have recently relished “Dangerous Liaison” (Derek Cooper’s war diary from 2 HCR’s campaign with The Guards’ Armoured Division 1944 — 1945); this last year has seen the appearance of Derek’s biography. Not only does it obviously put the Irish Pimpernel’s 2 HCR exploits into a broader perspective, but it also shows courage of conviction and a resolute tenacity to see justice done.

Packed in bags of three.

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the leading " 7 ‘ nianufacturer and g supplier of uniform ' buttons; badges and .

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Now are revealed Derek’s love for Ireland, his subaltern days in the Micks (reminiscent of Field Marshal Alex’s as described in Nigel Nicolson’s “Alex”) and the operational experience gained across north—west Europe with 2 HCR, and subsequently with LG in Palestine where he won the MC at the six day battle of Jaffa. It was during this era that Derek became determined to help humans in need. From their Donegal lair at Dunlewy Derek and Pamela Cooper began their intrepid welfare. Firstly in 1956 with Save the Children rescuing refugees from Hungary. Then the Middle East in Jordan, Iran, the Palestinian refugee camps, and Beirut. Derek’s work prompted him to set up Medical Aid to the Palestinians (MAP) exemplified by the heroic work of the surgeon Dr Pauline Cutting. To quote from Sir John’s epilogue “Apart from their amazing energy, one of the outstanding qualities both Derek and Pamela have demonstrated is the moral courage to back their belief in the causes they take up by going right into the “firing line” without fear of opposition, ridicule, or indignity ”

0 Spots (assorted red, yellow, navy) £7 per bag

0 Tartan (assorted Royal Stewart,

accoutrernents to the UK. Ministry of Defence.

Dress Gordon, Graham of Montrose) £10 per bag

0 Bold Paisley (assorted red, green, navy) £8.50 per bag

Fine Paisley (assorted claret, green, navy) £11 per bag

Cooper “aficionados” may also have read Pamela’s autobiography “A Cloud of Forgetting”. “For Love of Justice” is a wonderful complement to it; it restores the balance, and, above all, in an era, when according to Lord Gilmour’s forward “ . . . The

0 3 of same deSign and colour, price as per design

Clinton administration is now almost wholly obedient to Israel’s wishes . . . ”, it makes an inspirational story. “Derek Cooper Order by post, telephone or fax.

and his Wife Pamela have done more than any other private individuals to help the Palestinians”. Sir John Baynes’s riveting account must be read by anyone who claims an interest in world affairs. After all perhaps only an Irish Pimpernel could per-

suade Lord Rothschild over lunch at the Carlton Club to give him letters to various prominent Israeli officials!

Payment by Cheque, Visa/MasterCard or Postal Order.

Please add £2 p&p (overseas orders charged at cost).

Gift boxes available at £1 each.

The Enormous Handkerchief Co, PO Box 16, Banbury, Oxon OX17 1TF Tel: 01295 758758 Fax: 01295 750800

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With more than 300 years experience in supplying to the exacting standards of the Armed Forces of the world.

“For Love ofJustice: the Life of a Quixotic Solder” by John Baynes published by Quartet Books, 27 Goodge Street, London

WIP ZLD (price £20. 00). 0171 636 3992 “Dangerous Liaison” Derek Cooper’s war diary 1944 — 1945, edited by AJ Maxse (formerly Coldstream Guards) published by Michael Russell (formerly Royal Horse Guards), Wilby Hall, Norwich, NR16 ZJP (price £14. 95).

“A Cloud of Forgetting” by Pamela Cooper published by Quartet Books, 27 Goodge Street, London WlP ZLD (price £19. 95).

KING EDWARD VII CONVALESCENT HOME FOR OFFICERS OSBORNE HOUSE m

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Advertorial

The following was written by me Kelly (Domestic Sales Manager). He has been working for Firmin & Sons plc for over ten years.

Do \tlli nccd I'L‘\Pllt‘ cart- \\ llll fl liuiir nursing in iiilalilt , Established in 1677, with origins dating back to before the reign of Charles II, Firmin & Sons plc is one of longest established companies in the United Kingdom. From its original beginnings in the City of London, it has had more than 320 years experience in supplying products of the highest quality to the exacting standards of the Regiment of the British Army and the Armed Forces of the world. Not Widely known to members of the public, the company has for many years been associated with the Household

Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

Manufacturing and supplying the ceremonial State helmets, cuirasses and many other

accoutrements, so much the hallmark of the senior regiment guarding the person of the monarch. These products, while very prestigious, form a very small part of the company’s range of activities.

In addition to manufacturing a wide range of products for the military, Firmin and Sons plc is also one of the leading suppliers of specialist commemorative and presentation products to some of the Nation’s best known bodies such as the English Football Association, the Championships Wimbledon, M. C. C. , Aintree, Oxford, Cambridge and many other univerSities.

Offering guidance in design to customer specifications, our wealth of experience enables us to provide a wide range of products to suit most occasions. From the striking commemorative and award medals, through trophies and plaques to cuff links, blazer badges and lapel pins, our in-house sales and design teams are able to advise on a product that anyone would be proud to receive as an award or a gift.

Would you like a week or two away from daily worries?

Ifyou have answered ‘YES’ to any of the above questions, why not consider making a booking at Osborne House.

Registered with the Isle of Wight Health Authority, the Home’s extensive facilities offer a haven of comfort, which provide respite care, rehabilitation, and the chance to relax and recuperate, with excellent physiotherapy and hydrotherapy units.

If this is ofiiitercst to you, and if you are a serving or retired Officer, or wife, widow or dependant, of H M Services, or a serving or retired Civil Servant, please contact our qualified staff for further details at ()slmtnc ”misc. lids! (.imcs. Islc (ll “lain POL‘ 6“ [ti

112 Notices

Firmin & Sons plc is a leading manufacturer and supplier to many regiments, national sporting bodies, institutions and clubs, of medals, achievement awards, cufflinks, blazer buttons, badges and many other quality gift items.

0192s? 295]] lux‘ 0195119‘073

Please contact our sales team for further information.

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