Army Reserve Quarterly: Spring 2014

Army Reserve Quarterly: Spring 2014
03
Plenty of physically demanding
adventurous training, with skiing
naturally at the forefront in winter.
Plenty of world - class
military training.
Additionally in this edition
we report on Army Reservists
helping the public in times of
need, both in the Philippines
and the UK.
One might be
tempted to ask
if there are two
Army Reserves.
the contributions of
Army Reservists in
the World Wars and
subsequent conflicts
including Afghanistan,
not to mention the
Olympics, floods and
other UK tasks.
The Army Reserve reported
in these pages is thriving, and
for those with a blinkered
vision of what is does, ARQ
really does show that the
Army Reserve is definitely
More Than Meets The Eye.
The Editor
editorarq@mail.com
One Army,
Regular and Reserve
In ARQ units and Because the same few faces
up again and again on TV
individuals of the Army pop
and elsewhere to tell us the
Reserve tell their stories, Army Reserve won’t work.
and once again the range For some reason
of activity is impressive. they chose to ignore
Signaller Perry Draycott 32 Sig Regt in Cyprus.
ARQ Spring 2014
04
P
airing is not just about
shared military training,
the value of building selfconfidence, team work and
leadership through adventurous
training is another vehicle for
building relationships between
Regulars and Reserves.
When 101 (Northumbrian) Regiment
Royal Artillery set off on exercise
Northern Magpie 14, the group
included soldiers from 39 Regiment,
their paired Regiment under
Army 2020.
Conducted at Claviere in the
Piedmont (North West) region of
the Italian Alps the exercise included
Army Reservists from Regimental
HQ, 203 (Elswick) Battery, 204
(Tyneside Scottish) Battery, 205
(Durham Volunteer Artillery) Battery,
269 (West Riding) Battery and the
REME detachment.
The village of Claviere
Calviere is a small resort which sits
on the border with France, the
fantastic 250 miles of ski runs in the
Milky Way area on its doorstep.
The characteristic mountain village
architecture of Claviere is a charming
blend of old and new, set amidst
breath taking scenery.
ARQ Spring 2014
The group was divided into sub
groups depending on levels of ski
proficiency from the first time skier
to the more mature competent skiers.
The days that followed included
snow ploughing for the beginners to
various runs for the more experienced.
The weather started off cloudy and
foggy with poor visibility, this added
to the challenges that lay ahead,
especially for the beginners who
could not see the end of their skis.
05
101 at Clavieres
Gunners
Hit The Slopes
By day three the weather had
improved to reveal the stunning
panoramic scenery of the Italian and
French Alps and the skiers went over
the border to ski around the French
resort of Montgenevre.
This was quite an eye opener,
particularly as the first run of
the day was down a near vertical
black run, which proved to be
an extremely challenging and
entertaining affair to say the least.
During the exercise avalanche drills
were covered, concentrating on the
different layers of snow that make
up the piste. Skiing also took place
in a snow park which had jumps and
high banking turns.
The Gunners had the chance to take
their Ski Foundation tests with most
passing and a number achieving
their Ski Foundation Level 2.
During test day over 31 miles were
covered on skis and vertically over
26,600 ft were skied with one
member of the Group recording a
speed of 73.2 miles per hour, not bad
for two planks attached to your feet.
Without doubt the Exercise was
an unqualified success bringing
together elements from 101
and 39 Regiments engendering
comradeship and team work.
Undoubtedly this will aid the
continuing goals and new
challenges that face the regiment
under A2020. Events like this will
also have a positive effect on
recruiting and retention.
101 Regiment is a precisions
fire regiment with their main
equipment being the Multiple
Launch Rocket System (MLRS).
ARQ Spring 2014
06
Army Reserve
is Air Reserve
A
rmy Reservists from across
England have been training
to work with the Army’s
state of the art Wildcat and
Apache helicopters.
The first step in this process
started with a trial of the Ground
Crew Reserves Phase 2 Army
Aviation Trade Training course
at the Army Aviation Centre
in Middle Wallop. This 15 day
course retrains soldiers who are
currently serving with other Army
Reserve units to allow them to be
rebadged into the Army Air Corps
as helicopter handling teams and
ground support crews.
ARQ Spring 2014
07
As part of Army 2020 infantry men
and gunners are now taking up
the challenge of helping to keep
the Army’s helicopter fleet flying.
Rifleman Alex Pead-Walsh from
Gloucester is joining the 675
(Rifles) Squadron. He said,
“The course has been very
challenging and rewarding,
We have had the opportunity
to go up in the helicopters.
I am looking forward to
seeing how it all works.”
Air Trooper Chris Kemp from Bognor
Regis has only recently joined the
Army Air Corps as an Army Reservist
after serving 10 years with the Royal
Air Force. He was also part of the
first course. He said
“The course has been a lot to
take in so I have listened and
Squadron
Formed from
Based
675 (Rifles)
B Company 6th Battalion The Rifles
Taunton and Yeovil
677 (Suffolk
and Norfolk
Yeomanry)
Bury St Edmunds,
Norwich and
Ipswich
678 (Rifles)
E Company 7th Battalion The Rifles
201 (Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire Yeomanry)
Parachute Battery Royal Artillery.
Milton Keynes
and Luton
679 (Duke of
Connaught’s)
D Company 3 PWRR
655 Sqn AAC
Portsmouth and
Middle Wallop
learnt and the trainers have been
very good. I have enjoyed it.”
The new course at Middle Wallop
has included training to work with
helicopters carrying under-slung
loads, fuelling, air safety and also
an introduction to fire fighting.
Captain Rich Murray, the officer
commanding ground training at
Middle Wallop said,
“The Army Reserve soldiers have
been working very hard and have
impressed everyone with their
enthusiasm for their new role.”
ARQ Spring 2014
08
Water
Water
Everywhere
O
peration Pitchpole was the military support
and assistance provided to local authorities
during recent flooding. In many areas the
flooding was worse than it has been for 65
years and although the local and national agencies have
detailed plans in place to deal with the issues of flooding
– when it happens so quickly, and on a national scale,
their limited resources are quickly stretched.
Fortunately, in such circumstances they are able to
request military assistance to help them in their
efforts to protect property, infrastructure and life.
7 Rifles were one of the first military units to be
utilised in this role and played a key and central
role throughout the efforts.
During the weekend of 7-9 February the battalion
was due to undertake an exercise on Salisbury Plain.
Having had a week of heavy rain, and more forecast for
the weekend, the men of 7 Rifles were expecting what
would have been a challenging, yet rewarding, weekend
to be made just slightly more difficult by the poor
weather. Inclement weather kit was packed, weapons
were drawn from the armoury and vehicles were loaded
at the various company locations to begin their move to
a central rendezvous location on the Plain.
Less than 30 minutes into the journey the call came
from Battalion HQ to divert from training to flood
relief operations.
With all sub-units now at the HQ in Reading a quick
re-organisation shaped the soldiers into a force capable
of conducting simultaneous recces of flooded locations
with the Environment Agency and also deploying
assistance troops to locations at very short-notice.
As events had developed at such short notice, and
a formal request for assistance had only been given
on the Friday evening, 7 Rifles were the first on the
ground in this area.
The unit was called upon to conduct a number of tasks
which the Environment Agency and local authorities
deemed to be essential and of immediate importance.
Sandbag walls were erected to protect property, and a
ARQ Spring 2014
hefty repair to a weir pool which had burst its banks and
was about to flood an electricity sub-station providing
power to 40,000 homes were the first two tasks.
When told of the situation at the sub-station
the Riflemen worked tirelessly filling over 1500
sandbags and successfully shoring up the defences
at the substation. This was a massive boost to the
mens' spirits as it was felt that they had really
made a difference to local people.
After the weekend a number of the battalion
continued to help the operation.
With many major tasks now complete or underway the
Army were called upon to access the most remote and
inaccessible locations. One of these ‘isolated tasks’ was
to help individuals from their homes in Newport, Isle of
Wight, and assist in saving their most valued possessions
which were at risk due to collapsing cliffs – a task which
saw the men of 7 Rifles being deployed and extracted
by two Chinook helicopters.
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Photo: Riflemen Andrew Grant and Matt Corrigan
“The flood emergency was an
opportunity to do something
radically different. We reacted
to the situation and worked
well together as a team. It was a
rewarding feeling in getting a hands
on approach and actually helping
the local community in preventing
the floods from destroying their
homes. We received much praise
and thanks. It’s a great feeling to
know that we can adapt to crises
when called upon and the lads were
surprised to see themselves in the
news later
that evening.”
Rfn Gregory Pratt
“It was often the smallest of
gestures that seemed to have
the biggest impact both on the
Riflemen and locals. This was
particularly evidenced in the village
of Eastbury in Berkshire. Whether
carrying people from their front
doors through the water or digging
ditches for run-off in gardens, the
genuine gratitude of local residents
had a great impact on the troops.
This not only made our efforts feel
valued but also helped to maintain
a sense of purpose despite the
adverse conditions.”
Second Lieutenant Tom Ogden
“This was local soldiers helping
the local community.
Whilst military training is clearly
very important, this homeland
resilience task was an excellent
opportunity to help those of our
counties who have supported us
so loyally over the years.”
Lt Col James Bryant,
Commanding Officer.
ARQ Spring 2014
10
A Feat
of Mental
and Physical
Strength
Published in the Northumberland Gazette on the 05 December 2013
G
azette reporter James
Willoughby joined the Army
on a memorial competition in
Scotland, which was the first major
exercise between Edinburgh-based
3rd Battalion The Rifles (3 Rifles) and
the Fifth Battalion Royal Regiment
of Fusiliers (5 RRF), which has Army
Reserve centres across the North East
of England, including in Alnwick.
Not really the outdoors type, my kit was a
mix of borrowed items, from waterproofs to
walking boots, camouflage to a torch.
I didn’t even know how my ration pack
worked. All of a sudden, I was involved in
a military exercise, wading through boggy
ground to get the best footage I could,
eating tubed chocolate spread and sharing
a tent with brave individuals who had
served their country overseas.
Minus five degrees, decked out in
camouflage and sleeping in a tent in the
middle of nowhere in a remote part of
southwestern Scotland.
Yes, my initial few hours with the Army
were very much a baptism of fire. But the
two-and-a-bit days that I spent over the
Border for The Brownson Trophy at the end of
November proved eye-opening and inspiring.
Welcome to the Army, I thought, as I laid on
my military-style camping bed having just eaten
a meal from my very first ration pack. I felt as
far removed from so-called normality as I could
possibly be. This, after all, was a far cry from
anything that I have ever experienced before.
Make no mistake, I have always respected
members of the Armed Forces for their
incredible bravery, self-sacrifice and service.
But having experienced the commitment,
dedication and the mental and physical
strength on show during this particular exercise
– named in honour of 3 Rifles’ Corporal Lee
Brownson, from Bishop Auckland, who was
killed in Afghanistan in 2010 – my admiration
has gone up even further.
Yes, it was all a bit overwhelming at first, but at
least I was sleeping in a tent at night and was
driven around in an Army jeep – another first
for me I might add – to get to the various parts
of the exercise. The soldiers in this competition
could only dream of such luxuries.
Here they were, troops of all ages and
experiences, sleeping outdoors under a poncho
ARQ Spring 2014
James Willoughby
in freezing conditions, hiking for miles on end
for numerous days over some tough terrain in
Galloway and tackling various challenges, from
launching an assault on enemy defences to
honing their armed combat skills
at Kirkcudbright.
And for a lot of this time, the hardy troops
were carrying around six stones of kit. That’s
nearly as heavy as me! I actually tried on an
equipment-filled bag and almost collapsed.
But what this inspiring inter-platoon
patrols competition demonstrated was an
overwhelming sense of character and desire
to be the best.
Take 21-year-old Rifleman William Campbell,
from North Shields, for example.
While he admitted that the exercise – his first
of this nature – was tough, his enthusiasm
to learn and develop as a soldier never
wavered, even after a number of days in to
the gruelling competition. He said: “It has
been challenging and a lot harder than I
11
thought, especially the terrain, because you’ll
be walking one minute and then you’ll be up
to the waist in a bog.
“But it has been interesting and really good
and I have learnt a lot of new skills.”
It’s a mentality which oozes through the ranks.
As Major Nathan Teale, of 3 Rifles, explained:
“We use this exercise in tribute to
Cpl Brownson to make sure that through
the duration of the competition, while it is
arduous, it makes us better at what we do.
It tests, under the spirit of competition and in
his memory, our ability to make us better and
stronger.”
The competition, designed to test and develop
core dismounted infantry skills, included a
Reserve element from 5 RRF and formed the
first major exercise between them and the
Regular soldiers from 3 Rifles.
It represents a changing tide.
As from 2020, the British Army, for the
first time, will fully integrate Regulars and
Reserves within a whole force, in response
to the strategic challenges it is likely to face
in the future.
Consequently, over the next few years, the
role of the Army Reserve will be expanded
and they will work even more closely with
the rest of the Army.
This means that there will be more
opportunities for people who want to enjoy the
challenges that come with being a Reservist.
For Maj Teale, The Brownson Trophy was an
important aspect of the integration. He said:
“Under the future Army structure, Army 2020,
which is an excellent idea, the relationship
between the Regulars, such as 3 Rifles, and the
Reserves, such as 5 RRF, is absolutely critical.
“We, the 3 Rifles, stand shoulder to shoulder
with 5 RRF. They are our partner unit.
We will be required to work together in
all operations we deploy on in the future.
“Because we need to work together, i.e,
integrate really closely, this is the first major
exercise conducted to allow us to do that, to
strengthen the relationship between the two
units, work together, cross-pollinate knowledge
and learn to soldier, so when the time comes
we are good to go.”
“I think the Reserves can learn from the
Regular Army, because the Regulars have
got a lot of experience, which we can lean
on. I think we can help the Regular Army
too. While they might look at things from an
Army perspective, we might look at things
from a civilian perspective.”
Future exercises are planned, including one
in Kenya next year, which should feature
elements from both units.
The integration seems to be leaving a
positive stamp on the troops. Corporal Chris
Yorke, of Chester-le-Street and part of 5 RRF,
worked with 3 Rifles’ mortar platoon to carry
out live firing during the exercise.
He enjoyed the experience of working with
the Regulars and believes the integration is a
good thing.
He said: “Although it is only the first steps
of the integration, it is going well. The noncommissioned officers from 3 Rifles have come
to our Army Reserve Centre and have
been conducting training with us so
we can conduct training with them."
James Willoughby gets to grips with a rifle
This article appears with the kind
permission of the Northumberland Gazette.
Photographs by Petty Officer Jim Gibson RN
ARQ Spring 2014
a Gr eat Fa mily day oU t!
Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th July 2014
Abbey Field, Colchester, Essex CO2 7NZ
Attractions include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Red Devils Freefall Parachute Display Team
Over 400 Musicians, Pipers and Drummers
Napoleonic, WW1 & WW2 Re-enactments
Laser Clay Shooting & Laser Tag Mock Combat Village
Funfair, Zorba Balls, Bumper Boats & Mini Assault Course
Modern & Vintage Military Vehicles & Weapons
Trade Stands, Refreshments & Much More!
ispl ays
motorcycle d
esse x doG displa
y te am
li ViNG History
BUy ticKets NoW*
Adults £15
Family ticket £35 (two adults & two children – extra child £5 ea.)
Concessions £12 (seniors & children under 16, armed forces discount**)
Disabled £12 (maximum one carer free of charge per wheelchair user)
VIP packages available (advance purchase only)
www.colchestermilitarytournament.co.uk or call 0844 871 8819
Staged by ABF The Soldiers’ Charity to raise funds for our
serving soldiers, veterans and their families. * Tickets also
available on the day at full price – Adult £18, Family ticket £50,
Concessions £15 ** Identity cards required on entry to the
event to gain armed forces discount.
FUNFair
13
The Minister sees first aid skills with Officer Cadets
Officer Cadets
Meet Minister
M
inister for International
Security Strategy,
Dr Andrew Murrison,
watched Officer Cadets
conducting Army Reserve training when
he paid a visit to Glasgow and Strathclyde
Universities Officer Training Corps.
Dr Murrison made the trip to see what goes
on at the unit which is made up of 150
Officer Cadets from the four Universities.
During the evening he watched the Officer
Cadets take part in their training, including
field craft, tactics, planning and decision
making. He also spoke to them about their
recent ascent of Mount Kenya and plans for
an ascent of Mont Blanc.
Dr Murrison said: “I hope that more of
you will continue in the footsteps of
your predecessors – capitalising on the
knowledge, opportunities and skills you have
acquired here by joining the Army Reserve.”
Lt Col James Bryden, Commanding Officer of
Glasgow and Strathclyde Universities Officer
Training Corps said:
“In the last year we have
sent members of the unit
to train in Africa, Russia
and the US as well as
any number of exercises
across the UK.”
ARQ Spring 2014
No Hiding for
Harassment
T
he Army's policy on eradicating harassment for any reason
is well known. Respect for others is a hallmark of the
British Army: it comes from the duty to put others first
and means that there is no place for prejudice or favouritism.
The 2014 Sexual Harassment Survey is being sent to a pre-selected
number of Regular and Reserve officers and soldiers inviting them to
take part.
This survey provides the opportunity for individuals to say if sexual
harassment has affected their life in the Army.
The evidence generated by the Sexual Harassment Survey is a
vital source of information that assists the Army in developing
future personnel policy. To support this process, it is important
that the views are representative of those across the Army and
therefore all selected individuals are strongly encouraged to
complete and return their surveys.
Completed surveys are to be returned before the survey closes on
Mon 28 Apr 14. All data is collated anonymously and the paper copies
are subsequently destroyed. All responses remain strictly confidential
and no individual can be identified with their data.
15
Capturing Partnering
Army Reservist’s
Afghan Tales
by Lieutenant Claire Jackson RLC
L
eaving behind her civilian job
as a TV Production Manager
Lieutenant Claire Jackson is
Combat Camera Team leader
attached to 7 Armoured Brigade
on operation Herrick 19, more
commonly known as the
Desert Rats. Swapping modern
offices for remote desert bases she
helps tell the British military’s story
in Afghanistan. She is an officer in
the Media Operations Group, the
Army Reserve element of Army
Media and Communication.
The three man team is also made up
of Sergeant Dan Bardsley, photographer
(PHOT), and Sergeant Paul Shaw,
video camera operator / Electronic
News Gatherer (ENG). Whilst they are
both Regulars in the Army, Lt Jackson
is an Army Reserve in the Royal
Logistics Corps.
Whilst both Sgts Bardsley and Shaw have
completed several tours between them,
this is her first operational tour.
As part of her role she has regularly
blogged about her experiences, we
reproduce some extracts overleaf.
The CCT at work
ARQ Spring 2014
16
Afghan soldiers training by the British Army
I joined the Army Reserve in 2009 as a
private soldier then followed the Officer
path and commissioned in October 2011
into the RLC. I subsequently transferred
into the Media Operations Group
(MOG), a national unit for personnel
with specialist media skills, and one
which has a 27 day level of commitment
which suited me and my busy work
schedule as a Production Manager for a
tv production company.
Having passed the selection day with
MOG, I soon discovered the role of the
CCT having listened to a presentation
from a team who had just returned from
a six-month tour. It had me hooked and I
immediately decided that was going to be
my goal. And here I am now a year-anda-half later, sitting in Helmand Province
leading a combat camera team.”
My job is to organise and set up the
jobs, direct and produce, and write up
the stories. I ensure that all jobs are
completed and pushed out to various
media outlets. Jobs can be as simple as
hometown stories on military personnel
around Helmand that are pushed out
to local and regional press, to requests
that have been generated by the MOD
in London which requires us to capture
footage and imagery for use to push
out the national broadcasters for
use worldwide.
Our first tasking was to cover the
handover of Patrol Base (PB) Ouellette
from British troops to the Afghan
National Civil Order Police (ANCOP).
Dismantling fortifications
ARQ Spring 2014
Having been in theatre for only six days,
suddenly we find ourselves outside the
wire and at the flight line about to catch
a Chinook out to Ouellette.
My first tasking, first time in a Chinook,
and first time outside the wire all in one
job. Since then flying in military aircraft
has become very much like hailing a cab
as it’s the main form of transport outside
Bastion whether it be in a Chinook, a
Hercules C130 or an American Osprey
(like something out of Avator – a cross
between a helicopter and a plane).
During the tour we’ve had a lot of
requests from the BBC and ITV to provide
footage for some of their prime time
shows including – ‘ITV’s Surprise Surprise’
who wanted a Christmas message
The CCT deploys by helicopter
17
recorded from a serving soldier, imagery
for a Remembrance Service which was
shown live at the Albert Hall, footage for
the Sun Military Awards from personnel
who had been nominated for Awards,
and items for the BBC One Show. It’s
good when you see your product on
broadcast on tv and in print, you feel
very proud.”
VIP visits are part of this job, and we’ve
had a few of them. Our job is to cover
the visit and provide relevant footage and
imagery to support a press release and
news package. We’ve had visits from HRH
the Duke of York, and the former England
footballer Michael Owen, however, the
most memorable ones would have to be
Katherine Jenkins and Gary Barlow who
both flew out to Camp Bastion to sing
to the troops. The atmosphere at both
events was electric and brought a smile to
many troops faces.
One noticeable thing about this Herrick
tour compared to the earlier ones is the
change of pace as we withdraw out of
Afghanistan with the ANSF taking the
lead, and the type of stories that we are
pushing out. The stories tend to feature
re-deployment and base closures and the
Afghans growing as an Army.
We’ve filmed at Shoraback a few times,
the Afghan National Army (ANA) base
next door to Bastion where British troops
A normal street scene
A story for International Women’s Day
have recently opened up a battle school
similar to Brecon called the Regional
Corps Battle School (RCBS). Here ANA
soldiers are put through courses to
develop and improve their weapon
skills in the battlefield. We covered the
opening ceremony and the Afghans
looked very professional and proud as
they marched onto the parade square,
and I was quite impressed.
One memory that I will definitely be
taking back with me from this tour is a
recent trip to Kajaki, a tasking for the
Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT)
where they have been carrying out road
inspections on the Route 611, the main
supply route in this area.
Not only is Kajaki breath taking, but it
was good to see the locals looking so
happy and at ease around the troops.
Seeing how the work on this route
has improved their lives was such a
great feeling. The smiles on the kids’
faces said it all and this is one trip
that I will remember for a long time.
This tour has been a fantastic experience
for me, and such a world away from the
office I left behind in Warwickshire. I still
have to keep reminding myself at times
of how lucky we are to be doing this job,
with such a diverse range of taskings.
And for me being an Army Reservist,
and this my first tour, it’s a real privilege.
Photos - Sgt Dan Bardsley RLC
and Lt Jackson.
Kajaki
ARQ Spring 2014
18
Lord Mayor’s Show
T
he Honourable artillery
Company has always had
strong connections with the
City of London. In the early
part of the 17th Century the Court
of Aldermen appointed the chief
officers and paid the professional
soldiers who trained members of
the Company. Today the Lord Mayor
and Aldermen are honorary members
of the Court of Assistants which
governs the HAC.
Since the Restoration, the Company has
provided Guards of Honour in the City for
visits by members of the Royal Family and
overseas Heads of State. In gratitude for the
Company’s role in restoring order to the City
at the time of the Gordon Riots in 1780 the
Corporation of London presented "two brass
field-pieces" which led to the creation of an
HAC Artillery Division
Photos: The HAC at the Lord Mayor’s Show
Photographs by Jonathan Ivey
ARQ Spring 2014
19
Saluting Her Majesty
T
he Honourable Artillery Company
(HAC) fired a 62-gun Royal Salute
at HM Tower of London on 6th
February to mark HM Queen’s
Accession to the Throne.
Her Majesty is Captain General of the HAC.
This very traditional event took place in
conditions that represented very well the
weather that has been the hallmark of
the year to date.
The Royal Salute
Photographs Jackie Pringle
ARQ Spring 2014
21
Get Skilled Up
L
eadership and management are core skills for all
military personnel, and are amongst the most
transferable of skills into the civilian world.
The following accreditation opportunities are
available to Reserve soldiers and officers to enhance
their civilian CV:
Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) Level 3
Certificate in First Line Management. Available to soldiers
and officers who successfully complete the Range Management
Qualification (Parts 1-3) delivered by Regional Training Centres (RTCs).
A portfolio of evidence is compiled using assessed coursework from
the RMQ course.
Chartered Management Institute (CMI) or ILM
Level 5 Certificate in Leadership and Management.
Available to Direct Entry officers who successfully complete the
Army Reserve Commissioning Course. Completion of a personal
development plan, which is externally assessed by the awarding
organization, is required.
Chartered Management Institute Level 7 Certificate
in Strategic Leadership and Management.
Available to Late Entry officers who successfully complete the Late Entry
Officers course (LEOC). Completion of an additional assignment, which is
externally assessed by CMI, is required.
Accreditation of Defence Instructor Training
and Coaching Skills.
Training and workplace coaching skills are directly transferable to the
civilian workplace and will be valued by many employers, depending
on the employee’s role. The following accreditation opportunities are
available to Reserve soldiers and officers.
City & Guilds or Edexcel Level 3/4 Award in Preparing
to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector.
Available to soldiers and officers who successfully complete the
Defence Instructional Techniques (DIT) course delivered by Regional
Training Centres (RTCs). A portfolio of evidence is compiled using
assessed coursework from the DIT course plus some additional work
undertaken by the individual.
Professional Recognition Awards and Membership
of Professional Bodies.
This type of accreditation is not linked to specific training courses but
recognises an individual’s experience in a vocational/professional area,
gained over a period of time. Professional recognition awards usually
require a one-off payment and may confer the right to use postnominals; membership of a professional body requires the continuing
payment of an annual membership fee and will usually confer the right
to use post-nominals. Membership of a relevant professional body will
enhance a civilian CV. The following opportunities are available to Army
Reserve soldiers and officers:
City & Guilds Senior Awards.
The Senior Awards are a professional recognition award, recognizing
competence and career experience gained over a period of time in
rank. The criteria and procedure for applying for a Senior Award in
leadership and management, available to all Army personnel via DETS(A),
are identical for Regular and Reserve personnel. The minimum rank
required to apply for a Senior Award is Sgt. Defence Information Note
2010DIN07-182 is the reference. Senior Awards are also used by a
number of Arms and Services to recognise competence in vocational or
trade skills. A one-off payment is required and City & Guilds confer the
right to use post-nominals.
Membership of the
Chartered Management Institute (CMI).
Similar criteria apply to Regular and Regular personnel.
2010DIN07-77 is the reference.
Membership of the
Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM).
Similar criteria apply to Regular and Reserve personnel. ILM website is
the reference.
Membership of the
Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT).
This is available primarily to RLC personnel. Similar criteria apply to
Regular and Reserve personnel. 2010DIN01-211 is the reference.
Membership of the
Institute of Administrative Management (IAM).
This is available primarily to AGC(SPS) personnel. Similar criteria apply
to Regular and Reserve personnel. IAM website is the reference and
SO2 WLD DSPS(A) is the internal contact.
City & Guilds or Edexcel Level 3/4 Certificate in
Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector.
Available to soldiers and officers who successfully complete the
Defence Train the Trainer (DTTT) course delivered by Regional Training
Centres (RTCs). A portfolio of evidence is compiled using assessed
coursework from the DTTT course plus some additional work
undertaken by the individual.
ARQ Spring 2014
22
‘More Than Meets The Eye’
T
he Army’s latest recruitment
campaign ‘More than meets
the eye’ is now well underway.
The campaign was well received on
social media.
“@armyjobs Hi guys, that's one of the greatest ads I've
ever seen, thank you for your service! PS do you know
who made the music for it?”
The campaign is focussed on both the
Regular Army and the Army Reserve,
showcasing the breadth of opportunities
that are available with the key message,
“wherever your potential lies, you can
fulfil it in one of the hundreds of roles in
the Army.”
“The new @armyjobs ad is brilliant”
“RT @matdicko: I think the new army ad is the best one
for a long time #bethebest”
Over the first weekend alone,
applications submitted increased 100%
against the normal run rate for Reserve
soldiers, with over 26,000 website hits on
the first day alone.
“That was a great advert, so cool.”
“Awesome work was put into that! awesome,
heading to the centre to apply this Tuesday :) ”
Army Reserve
Recruiting
Simplified
T
Improved medical
clearance process
and online
application form
his February the Army Recruiting Group launched a new,
streamlined medical clearance process and a simplified
online application form, providing an improved joining
experience for candidates.
The enhancements make it easier and quicker for recruits to join
the Army and ensure as high a level of complete, accurate applications as
possible.
The new medical administration process now consists of just
16 initial questions, compared to the previous 159, allowing medically
fit candidates to move to assessment in around 45 calendar days.
Equally, the number of upfront questions has also been reduced
on the online application form, which now uses plain English.
Most significantly, the new form is accessible from mobile devices
such as smart phones and tablets.
ARQ Spring 2014
23
The Royal Yeomanry display the new
building and recruiting signage.
Photo courtesy of Greater London RFCA.
Joining Up is
Worth the Wait
P
rivate Elliott Norman from Selby became
the first soldier to be attested into 4th
Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment this year
after a having first attempted to enlist fourteen
years ago!
Sadly at that time he broke a leg, thereafter went to
college, then university, got married and had children.
Norman told ARQ: “Now at the age of 34 it is my last
chance to join the infantry in York. I am very much
looking forward to being measured up and getting my
uniform so I can start my training.”
In civi street he is a security supervisor at York Hospital.
Picture: Pte Norman swears his allegiance to Her Majesty
in front of Officer Commanding Maj Ken Albon.
Photo by CSgt Stuart Coles
24
I
n January 2014 the
Royal Monmouthshire
Royal Engineers (Militia)
sent a team of four to
compete in the Exercise
Telemark Titan, the British
Telemark Championships
in Rauris, Austria.
Competing alongside other
units from all three services and
civilians the Royal Mons was the
only Army Reserve Team, other
than several lively Officer Training
Regiment squads, to take part.
Telemark
Challenge
for Militia
The first week was spent
receiving first class instruction
that catered for complete novices
up to the GB squad.
The enthusiasm and camaraderie
was excellent, and so was the
banter - particularly between
the Army and Navy skiers.
The second week was filled
with racing which again catered
by Second Lieutenant
Jake Falconer
for everyone with a 60 strong
championship series of races
running concurrent to the
development series.
Telemark racing defines
what is challenging about
military sport with a mixture
of disciplines and obstacles
developing the competitor’s
fitness, courage and skill.
The pinnacle of Telemark racing is
‘The Classic’ which consists of a
long Super Grand Slalom course
including a jump, a wrap
(a 360 degree banked turn) and a
100 metre uphill skate to finish.
Further information can be
found on the Army Winter
Sports Association and British
Telemark websites.
Bring on the Reserves
and their Proud History
by Julian Brazier TD MP
A
s our Regular Army
concentrates on a few large
“super garrisons” and the
National Service generation
fades away, it is right that we should
restore the principal connection
between the military world and the
civilian population.
The Army Reserve gives us that connection locally recruited and based at more than 300
centres. Not only that, but it will enable Britain
to afford the capacity to regenerate its Army;
each Reserve unit costs around a fifth of its
Regular counterpart and brings to the Forces
civilian skills and fresh thinking.
Time to revalue the Reserves
Reservists have often been undervalued by the
regular military establishment. As the nation
mobilised in 1914, the Secretary of State for
War, Field Marshal Kitchener, derided the
250,000 strong Territorial Force as a
“Town Clerks’ Army” and sidelined them to
create his “Kitchener” battalions from scratch.
Yet Britain’s first commander in France,
Sir John French, commented:
“Without the assistance which the
Territorials afforded between October
1914 and June 1915, it would have
been impossible to hold the line in
France and Belgium.”
On July 1st 1916, the first day of the Battle
of the Somme, two of the Territorial divisions
by then in action, 46th (North Midland) and
56th (London), were selected for the dubious
honour of creating a diversion, by attacking
the strongest point on the German line, the
formidable Gommecourt Salient, to facilitate
ARQ Spring 2014
a breakthrough further south. The guns,
infantry and machine guns of the Germans
were entrenched behind acres of barbed wire,
yet the attackers lacked the artillery to shred
it so the 56th London Division blew corridors
through the wire with homemade Bangalore
torpedoes (iron pipes filled with explosive).
2nd Lt Rex Petley recalled:
“It was really magnificent the way
every man, cool and collected, strolled
out through quite a stiff barrage
to the tape I had laid down ... The
smoke lifted for a few seconds …and
I noticed the men were inclined to
bunch on the right. I shouted an order
and they shook out as if they were on
Wimbledon Common."
Two hours on, they had captured all
their objectives.
By 1918 Territorials had provided
two fifths of our combat units
– and won 71 Victoria Crosses.
25
And they’re off
The need for Reservists on operations
Since 2002 28,000 British Reservists have
deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Thirty have
given their lives and 70 have won decorations
for gallantry but, since 2009, they have
usually been used as individual reinforcements
– sidelining their commanders.
Yet the Americans use large numbers of formed
Reserve units, making use of their civilian as
well as military skills. In Afghanistan, I have
visited National Guard units with roles ranging
from mentoring the Afghan Police to defending
remote development task forces along the
Pakistani border. In Iraq, they worked with the
civilian population, using their experience as
policemen, businessmen, farmers.
Reservists. Yet Britain’s Lieutenant General
John Lorimer commented in 2007, when
a Brigade Commander in Afghanistan.
“Somme Company (of the London
Regiment) was an outstanding
body of men: well trained, highly
motivated and exceptionally
well led.”
Interestingly they are the regimental
descendants of the 56th London Division
who attacked the German line back
in 1916.
Reserves key to Future Forces
In Afghanistan our Army has reached peak
form again, but the US Marines they work
alongside deploy many formed Reserve units.
Australia and Canada give many of their
peacekeeping tasks to their Reserves, as
well as having deployed combat companies
to Afghanistan. All three allies have
proportionately larger Reserve forces than
we plan to recruit.
Meeting the target of 30,000 trained
reservists by 2018 is achievable. It will provide
an immediate source of extra capability,
a range of specialist skills and a long-term
framework for expansion, not affordable
on a full-time basis.
We must learn the importance of using our
Reserve Forces from history as well as our
English-speaking cousins today, not least to
restore the principal link between the Army
and the nation.
Some ex-officers argue the timeless refrain
that modern war is too complicated for
Based on a longer article that appeared
in The Times
Julian Brazier is Conservative MP
for Canterbury and Whitstable.
He was an Army Reservist for 13 years,
serving as an officer in 21 SAS.
With General Sir Nicholas Houghton and
Lieutenant General (Retired) Sir Graeme Lamb
he produced the Future Reserves 2020 report
in 2010. In the same year he was re-elected
to the Common's Defence Select Committee.
He is chairman of the All-Party Reserve Forces
and Cadets Group.
ARQ Spring 2014
26
International Women’s Day
on the Front Line
by Lt Claire Jackson RLC
photos by Sgt Dan Barnsley RLC
T
he Army’s equality policy was highlighted as part
of International Women’s Day with case studies
of Army Reservists at work on Operation Herrick.
Lance Corporal Man-Yiu Wong is on her first tour in Afghanistan, where her role is Movement
Operator and Air Transport Liaison Officer, involving checking in passengers, delivering passenger briefs
and the specialised role of looking after passengers flying on compassionate grounds.
LCpl Wong has only recently left full time education, completing an MA in Crime Science last year.
She had been in the cadets in Hong Kong and is now serving in 159 Regt RLC, enjoying the
opportunities the Army Reserve offers.
On return from Afghanistan her plan is to find a job in the Ministry of Defence or the Foreign
& Commonwealth Office, or in the world of crime analysis:
“Being in the Army shows I can work under pressure; it’s given me experience in prioritising
and multi-tasking”.
Lieutenant Sophie Hardman from 151 Regt RLC is currently based in Camp Bastion, working as
a transport troop commander in Theatre, responsible for 28 soldiers on her first tour.
In civilian life Lt Hardman works as a Sponsorship Manager for an IT events company, liaising with
other IT organisations.
She told ARQ that while life in theatre is very different from her life in civvy street - and with much
longer working hours - the tour has enhanced her knowledge of the RLC, and the management of
people and teams in civilian life has helped in her Army Reservist role; so much so, she hopes to be
promoted to Captain on her return to the UK.
Private Theresa Moloney was studying sport science at college prior to her deployment to theatre,
where she is enjoying her tour undertaking redeployment supply work, preparing and logging kit for
return to the UK.
Already a successful footballer, Theresa plays in the Reserves Team. Now Pte Moloney says her time in
Afghanistan has given her new skills and more confidence working with a variety of people, ranks and services.
The Army Reserve works because she was looking for an exciting job, which kept her fit and
allowed her to travel and play football.
During her tour Pte Moloney has met Prime Minister David Cameron and Michael Owen on
their visits to theatre.
Lance Corporal Emily Harrison originally joined the Regular Army as a Movement Controller.
On leaving the Regular Army LCpl Harrison took a business degree at university and now works
as a Business Development Consultant for an IT software company.
“You are perceived as being reliable if you are a Reservist,” said the Lance Corporal,
whose civilian role involves project management, trouble shooting and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Now in 162 Regt RLC LCpl Harrison is on her third tour, this time in Afghanistan, where she is working
as a Movement Operator and Air Transport Liaison Officer. A particular skill she has gained is an ability
to speak in public, essential for her vital role.
ARQ Spring 2014
27
Big Toys
for REME
Craftsman Caroline Cohen works on a SA80 rifle
as part of her Class 3 Armourer trade training.
She serves with 103 Battalion REME based in Crawley.
She is a Solicitor in her civilian occupation.
A
rmy Reserve soldiers from
the Royal Electrical and
Mechanical Engineers
(REME) have been receiving
hands on training with millions of
pounds worth of current operational
vehicles and equipment.
Exercise Southern Bluebell was to update
their knowledge and competency at their
trade, developing them as individuals, so that
ultimately they are able to be mobilised.
The training on offer included battle damage
repair on protected patrol vehicles like those
being used on operations in Afghanistan
such as Mastiff 2 which costs £1.5 million.
Craftsman Ben Edgley works on an the wheel axle of a Coyote vehicle on
Exercise Southern Bluebell. Edgley serves with 150 Recovery Company in Redhill
and is currently studying to be a Aeronautical Engineer at Kingston University.
Craftsman Mark Robinson from Manchester
has served for nearly four years with 127 Field
Company (part of 101 Force Support Battalion
REME) based in the City. When not in uniform
he is a student studying Mechanics.
He said:
“This training makes you think of things
that you would not usually think of using
to fix a problem, like using a jerry can to
make a radiator, or using a glove to seal
a hole. I can bring what I learn at college
here and visa versa.”
As part of the exercise the Recovery Mechanics
were set the challenge of using two 30 tonne
Man recovery vehicles to rescue a fuel tanker
that was on its side, pulling it up right and
then taking it back to a safe location.
Photos: Capt Tom McShane REME
ARQ Spring 2014
28
What is a
High Readiness Reservist?
A
High Readiness Reservist
is an Army Reserve who
has signed an additional
agreement undertaking to
be available within a given response
time in support of UK operations.
The HRR agreement can last for a
defined period of up to 12 months
Under the HRR Agreement the soldier can be
called out on short notice for UK Ops and is
required to respond and report for duty at
their Army Reserve Centre within 12 or 24
hours as specified in their agreement.
It does however require the consent of the
soldier’s employer. This is vital to ensure that
Army Reservists Get Discounts
in Canada and Australia
Rewards for Forces are pleased to have teamed up with
fantastic forces discount services in Canada and Australia to
help its members to access useful discounts oversees.
APOD (www.apod.com.au) is the Australian Partners of Defence
website which offers Australian as well as Commonwealth
Defence Force Families membership to discounts on a wide range
of services for all Rewards members visiting Australia. Holiday
makers can take advantage of discounts at Marriott Hotels, Herts
Car Hire, the Flight Centre and many more offers to make their
holiday unforgettable and affordable. Also on offer are discounts
at well-known attractions such as Sea World, Majestic Cruises
and WB Movie World.
The Canadian Discount Service www.cfappreciation.ca also
welcomes Rewards for Forces Members when visiting with a
wide array of discounts. Accommodation will be no problem
ARQ Spring 2014
an Army Reservist can be released from his/her
civilian work in time to respond to a call-out.
Without the employers consent, the soldier
cannot be a HRR.
There is an additional Higher Readiness
Reserve Bounty of £428 and a call-out
gratuity of £514.
with these fantastic offers on Choice Hotels, Delta Hotels and
the Knights Inn plus many other hotels spanning the country.
There really is something for all the family with offers on
events and attractions including the World Famous Cirque du
Soleil, the NASCAR Speedpark and Niagara Park which is a
must see attraction.
So if you haven’t already make sure you sign up to the UK’s
largest discount and benefits service for the Armed Forces
that offers serving members of the forces, veterans and their
families’ premium discounts and benefits - Rewarding those
that have served our country. Servicemen and women, past
and present, can sign up or fantastic deals with over 13000
local and national discounts. Just visit www.rewardsforforces.
co.uk to sign up for free and take advantage of discounts with
Frankie and Bennys, Apple, Virgin Holidays and many many
more. There is also an option for members to purchase a
Lifetime Discount Card for a one off payment of £24 to access
all the high street discounts available.
29
In at the
Deep End
W
hen the Army was
called in to help deal with
flooding in what became
known as Operation Pitchpole,
the Army Reserve was part of
Defence's integrated response.
Some of the first troops in the flood
waters were 7 Rifles who found
their training exercise abandoned.
Amongst other contributions 11
Signal Brigade mobilised members
of their High Readiness Reserve to
ensure vital communications, the
Media Operations Group provided
additional press officers to cope
with international media interest,
and other Army Reservists worked
at the headquarters of 143 Brigade.
As the flood waters began to
recede other Army Reservists
were mobilised to support flood
defence inspections.
Signallers Prove Highly Ready
O
ne option for Army Reservists in some units is to
volunteer for the High Readiness Reserve (HRR).
The soldiers are employed on a contract which
offers enhanced financial benefits for the soldiers and
their civilian employers.
11 Signal Brigade use it to put soldiers on no more than
four week periods of mobilisation in the UK on military
aid to the civilian community (MACC) tasks.
During Op Pitchpole 39 Signal Regiment deployed
Army Reservists to provide communications for military
planners operating from the Somerset area.
Uniquely 2 (National Communications) Signal Brigade is
the only military unit dedicated to providing Information
Communications Services (ICS) in support of UK Ops. It is
90% manned by the Army Reserve.
ARQ Spring 2014
30
I
n the testing hot dusty Cypriot
climate the military skills of 32
Signal Regiment were proved as
they took part in Exercise Lion Star.
The exercise was designed to develop
the ability and confidence of the Army
Reserve soldiers in as they deployed as
a full infantry company with supporting
elements, at times operating with
live ammunition. It also tested junior
leadership whilst introducing soldiers to
working in urban environments.
The exercise included 100 soldiers from
32 Regt, plus members of their paired unit
2 Signal Regiment including soldiers of the
Queen’s Gurkha Signals (QGS). For many of the
signallers this was the first opportunity to train
abroad with the Army, and for the Gurkhas
it was the first opportunity to work with
Reservists other than on operations.
Signallers
in the Sun
ARQ Spring 2014
The training started on the ranges in Akrotiri
with a progressive package to get everyone
to a point where they could conduct a Close
Quarter Battle Range with targets appearing
randomly at ranges as short as 10 metres.
Once this was achieved the activity
moved to the training areas outside
Episkopi garrison where the troops
occupied a Forward Operating Base from
which to launch patrols, ambushes and
attacks. They were tested by crowds of
civilians, irate local leaders and snipers.
Throughout this phase first aid skills, reaction
to unexpected events and leadership were
tested and improved.
31
Photo: LCpl Sarah Raby
For Royal Signals soldiers this represented an
ideal opportunity to develop in ways that are
very difficult to replicate on communications
exercises. The lessons learnt will be carried
forward into their core roles making them
more effective signallers.
Sig Perry Draycott, on her first Army
training exercise since leaving training,
said: “This is why I joined the Reserves,
this exercise has been a lot harder than I
ever expected but I’ve really enjoyed it.”
The final results of the exercise were a huge
success. Lieutenant Colonel Rennie-Smith,
Commanding Officer of 32 Signal Regiment
said: “Exercise Lion Star has been the
culmination of seven months of training.
We developed an exercise that was
deliberately ambitious in terms of the aim
and training objectives and the soldiers rose
to the challenge.”
Also giving Lion Star the thumbs up was
Sig Joshua Sims who told ARQ: “It’s been
awesome, we should do more of this,
deploying into a scenario and working
through it, it’s been brilliant.”
32 Signal Regiment is a UK Operations
focussed unit that has been very active
in recent years supporting military tasks
in the UK. It is based across the north
including Derry/ Londonderry, Glasgow,
Darlington and Manchester.
When not supporting operations in the UK
the Regiment sends soldiers to Afghanistan.
14 soldiers deployed to Afghanistan 2013 to
support their paired Regular counterpart,
2 Signal Regiment.
ARQ Spring 2014
32
Perfecting the
Technique of
Falling Over.
D
eveloping leadership, teamwork, physical
courage and fitness as well as qualifying
soldiers in Ski Foundation 1 & 2 were
the aims of Northern Avalanche, 71 Engineer
Regiment's exorcise in Les Deux Alps, France.
Despite the promises that Les Deux Alps was the “Vegas
of the Alps”, the focus was on creating a challenging and
rewarding adventurous training exercise and making sure
everyone passed their assessments.
By the end of the exercise the cry had changed from
“Well I’ve perfected the technique of Falling Over.” to
“I’ve passed.”
71 Engineer Regiment is based throughout Scotland,
including Orkney, and has a squadron in Bangor, Northern
Ireland. Search “71 Engineer” for more details.
A
REME
are Engaging
ARQ Spring 2014
s employer engagement is
given fresh impetus across
the Army Reserve, 118
Recovery Company, Royal
Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
opened their doors to Bernard
Curran Human Resources Director
at TATA steel.
TATA Steel employs Army Reserves across its
UK sites and Mr Curran visited the Corby Army
Reserve Centre where 118 Recovery Company
are based, to learn more about their role and
the training they undertake viewing a range
of equipment including a 30-ton Support
Vehicle Recovery before talking to the soldiers
themselves about life in the Army Reserve.
33
Sappers
Under the Seas
A
s the only Dive Team in the Army Reserve
131 Independent Commando Squadron
Royal Engineers must maintain their diving
qualifications to ensure they are proficient,
meet industry and health and safety requirements and
are ready to deploy on operations.
The Sappers spent the weekend at the Defence Diving School on
Horsea Island in Portsmouth on an exercise specially designed to
refresh their safety and competency skills.
Every year the divers head out to Gibraltar to carry out
operational tasks in the harbour there for the Royal Navy,
which is really good for building up skill levels and provides a
formidable additional capability to the Fleet.
Lance Corporal Edward Little has been an army reservist for 13
years. He is a company director for Dragon Benches, an outdoor
furniture company. “I joined when I was a student. The money
was obviously an incentive but the Commando training was very
appealing. My army training has helped to hone my problem
solving and teamwork skills and it’s shown me that I’m capable
of more than I thought I was”.
The squadron supports 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines
and is based in London, Bath, Birmingham and Plymouth.
Soldiers from the unit regularly exercise in a range of testing
environments including mountains, deserts and the Arctic.
Lance Corporal Edward Little
Based in Northampton and Corby 118 Recovery
Company’s role is to maintain and repair the
vast array of equipment that the Army uses.
Bernard Curran said:
“I am amazed by the soldiers’
enthusiasm. The visit has given
me a greater understanding of the
Army Reserve and the training they
undertake. It is clear all the soldiers
enjoy what they do and are learning
really valuable skills that will help
them achieve their goals in their
civilian careers. It is definitely a win
win situation for both parties.”
Army Reservists train as helicopter ground crew
with the Army Air Corps see page 6-7.
ARQ Spring 2014
34
Feeding
from the Front
A
s a regiment consisting of chefs
167 Catering Support Regiment
is a unique organisation within
the British Army providing chefs
on deployments around the world
including Afghanistan, Kenya,
Morocco and the USA.
Aside from operational tasks the
Regiment provided the catering for
the 20th Anniversary of the Royal
Logistic Corps, preparing and cooking
a banquet in a field kitchen for 600
including the RLC Colonel in Chief,
HRH The Princess Royal.
The Regiment also has an impressive
track record in the world of culinary
arts. During 2013 alone Lance
Corporal Vicky Fowler won Best
in Class at the NEC Hospitality Show
whilst the Regiment gave a medal
winning performance at SCOTHOC,
Glasgow during the “Restaurant of
Nations” event.
We are a busy and diverse unit and we
are constantly looking for new talent.
We have a fantastic training school
and we are more interested in recruits
who are enthusiastic and willing to go
that extra mile.”
Under FR2020 the Regiment is set to
expand in size and the role of the
Army Reserve chef is of increasing
importance. Its Headquarters are at
Prince William of Gloucester Barracks,
Grantham in Lincolnshire, however,
the Regiment recruits from the whole
of the UK.
Of particular note is 167 Regiment’s
very own TV star, Sergeant James
Sinclair-Jones who competed in BBC’s
Masterchef: The Professionals.
He made it to the quarter-finals with
an outstanding effort and comments
such as, “I would really like to see
more of your cooking James”, from
Michel Roux Junior.
Commanding Officer, Lieutenant
Colonel Ian Skipper told ARQ:
“Things have never looked so good
for 167 Catering Support Regiment.
Sergeant Sinclair-Jones feels the heat
on the set of MasterChef.
ARQ Spring 2014
Corporal Fowler on Ex Jebel Sahara in Morocco.
35
Loggies
have a
Pairing Plan
A
s the move to One Army gathers
pace 102 Logistic Brigade are
embedding a Regular subaltern
within a paired Army Reserve unit.
The bonuses, well the Regulars will
take back first-hand experience of life
in a Reserve unit and the Reserves gain
up to date doctrine and training from
the Regulars.
Lieutenant Jonathan Kinahan, a Regular
in 6 Theatre Logistic Regiment in Germany
has been attached to 159 Supply Regiment
RLC, an Army Reserve Regiment in the
West Midlands.
Having served as a Troop Commander
and the Regimental Training Officer in
Germany, Lieutenant Kinahan is now based
in the 159’s Operations’ Room during the
week and at weekends and ‘drill nights’
he performs the duties of a Troop
Commander with 243 Headquarters
Squadron in Coventry.
There are already tangible benefits for
159 Regiment with Lieutenant Kinahan’s
experience and leadership being put to
great effect.
159 Regiment currently has no Army
Reserve subalterns so are missing a key
layer of leadership. Lieutenant Kinahan
is involved in addressing this problem.
Having a Regular
officer recruiting
for a Reserve unit
counters any negative
perceptions of the
professionalism
and value of the
Army Reserve.
Pictured right-Lt Jonathan Kinahan
Reflecting
A
n outline of Army’s national involvement
in the First World War Centenary
commemorations, known as Op Reflect,
has been announced.
The principal national events that the Army will support are:
4 Aug 14 Entry of the British Empire into World War One.
24 - 25 Apr 15 UK contribution to an Australia New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) led event at Gallipoli.
1 Jul 16 Battle of the Somme.
31 Jul 17 Third Battle of Ypres (Passchendaele).
8 Aug 18
Third Battle of Amiens.
11 Nov 18 Victory.
The Army will provide a fitting and dignified contribution to a
series of international, national and regional commemorative
events and programmes seeking to recognise and honour the
sacrifice of all those involved in the conflict and learning lessons
of contemporary relevance.
Throughout the Army will engage with communities and youth
to support the Government’s intent to create a truly national
commemoration and to underpin the role of the Army in society.
Civil engagement activity will continue to be planned and
co-ordinated by the regional chain of command with the rest of the
Army in a supporting role. Given the likely prominence of First World
War commemorations over the period the Army is to be prepared to
support additional civic events and commemorations where possible and
appropriate within available resources. The aim of such engagement is to
mark each anniversary in a dignified manner while cementing the Army’s
position in society.
Individual Regiments and Corps will also conduct remembrance events
to commemorate anniversaries of particular significance to them.
There are also a number of other key anniversaries in the
period 2014 to 2018; these include the 70th anniversary of specific
Second World War battles such as Kohima, Monte Cassino, D-Day
and Arnhem in 2014 and of VE and VJ days in 2015. Equally, the
200th anniversary of Waterloo falls in 2015.
The Army’s approach to these commemorations will be synchronised
carefully with First World War related events.
ARQ Spring 2014
36
•12 Categories for Amateur and
Professional Photographers
•All photographs must have been taken
between 25th Sept 2013 - 5th Sept 2014
•Amateur entries can be submitted online
to - armyphotcomp@yahoo.co.uk
•Closing date for entries 5th September 2014
•Professional entries must submit prints
and a CD - all entries must be in Hi Res
jpeg format.
•Submit your entries online or by post to
Army Picture Editor, IDL 407, Ramillies,
Army HQ, Andover, Hants. SP11 8HJ
2013 Amateur Winner: Sgt Van Zyl
•All entries MUST be accompanied by an
entry form, whether submitted online or
by post. Entry forms, rules and further
details are available in ABN19/14 at
www.army.mod.uk/APC
ADR003221
Army
Photographic
Competition 2014
37
Gunners
in Germany
F
iring 400 shells, abseiling 100 feet,
co-driving German Army guns,
and remembering the horrors of
the concentration camps and the
bravery of Normandy. For 103 Regiment
Royal Artillery the two week exercise
Leopard Star in Germany was very much
on target.
Gunner Jason McTigue from Kirkby 208 Bty
The Army Reservists from the
North West of England were hosted by
3 Royal Horse Artillery based in Hohne
Garrison Germany as the Army maximises
capability by fully integrating full time
and part time soldiers.
The gunners made good use of the Hohne
range complex and fired over 400 rounds
of mixed ammunition during the day and
night time firing. The Reservists also had
the opportunity to visit a German Army fire
power demonstration and close ties were
formed with Panzerartillerielehrbataillon
325 based in Munster.
Gunner Ian Taggart from Liverpool 208 Bty
This German unit is equipped with the
mighty Panzer Haubite PZH 2000 a
155mm self-propelled howitzer.
Gunner Langton checks out the inside of the
German 155mm self propelled gun
Gunner Richie Langton said:
“It was a great experience to be a
co-driver of such a huge armoured
self-propelled artillery gun.”
Battery Commander Major Steve Samosa,
said: “It’s all about developing our
relationship with a Regular close support
Artillery Regiment. Not only do we get
better training but we also develop lots of
contacts and it brings us closer together.
“It would be hugely demanding to
get our vehicles and guns out here,
so for 3 RHA to support us with their
equipment is a tremendous help.”
ARQ Spring 2014
38
During the second week of the exercise,
the Army Reservists tackled the mighty
Konstanz Bahn obstacle course.
With energy sapping obstacles, crawling,
running, climbing, swinging, balancing
and jumping, every technique was
needed to tackle the challenges,
The final abseil descent on the 100ft
tower was enjoyed by all.
The exercise gave the Gunners the
opportunity to take in lessons from the
past with a battlefield study in Normandy
following the advance of Montgomery’s
Operations Goodwood and Epsom.
There was also the chance to reflect with a
visit to Bergen-Belsen concentration camp
in Lower Saxony. When the prisoner of
war camp in Bergen closed the cemetery
contained over 19,500 dead Soviet
prisoners. An estimated 50,000 Jews,
Czechs, Poles, Christians, homosexuals,
and Gypsies died in the adjacent
concentration camp.
Gunner Alan Duxbury from St Helens 209 Bty
ARQ Spring 2014
39
Belsen Memorial
Belsen Obelisk
Recruiting
103
Regiment
has a target
to swell its
ranks by around 30 per cent,
(about 90 soldiers) by 2018.
Major Samosa describes that as
challenging but achievable:
“To that end, 4th Regiment
Royal Artillery is supplying
us with 15 soldiers
and officers from next
October to help with the
recruitment campaign.
“We are already seeing
a gradual upturn in
recruitment, with quite
a few former regular
soldiers as well as university
students coming on board.”
Liverpool Irish fire on Remembrance Day 2013
The Liverpool Irish
A
(Liverpool Irish) Troop of 208 Battery has the unique dress distinction
of wearing the Irish caubeen within the Royal Artillery, worn with a
maroon and light blue hackle.
Their history can be traced back to 1859. After a proud record in the First World
War they landed at Juno Beach in the Second alongside the Canadians.
ARQ Spring 2014
40
“All of One Team”
I
n a recent audit of national
employers the Army was placed in
Stonewall’s Top 100 Lesbian, Gay
and Bisexual (LGB) friendly employers
for the first time, finishing in joint
79th position with the Royal Navy.
Army policy and practice on areas
such as access to benefits for samesex partners and widespread training
of Army personnel on equality and
diversity were examined as part of
the benchmarking exercise.
For ten years Stonewall’s Workplace
Equality Index has helped inform over
800 employers about the impact of
their Equality and Diversity policies
and practices on their personnel.
Participation in the Workplace Equality
Index sends a powerful signal of the
Army’s commitment to its most vital
resource, people.
The audit also reviewed feedback
from LGBT personnel, an impressive
96% of whom believed their senior
management to be supportive of
LGB personnel.
Respect for All
T
he UK armed forces have come second
in the first league table of the most
equality friendly militaries in the world.
This was revealed in a brand new index from
the Hague Centre for Strategic Studies that
ranks the armed forces of 100 countries by
their inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender (LGBT) personnel.
The UK narrowly missed out on the top spot,
but did receive top scores for all its policies
and practices around admission, tolerance,
inclusion, exclusion and persecution.
ARQ Spring 2014
by Officer Cadet Chris Howard
Further information on the
Army LGBT Forum and the support it
can provide to the chain of command
or personnel can be found at www.
armylgbt.org.uk or on Twitter
@ArmyLGBT.
The values we live by - Army life is based on six core values:
Courage; be brave enough to do the right thing,
no matter what the circumstances.
Discipline; set a good example and follow lawful orders.
Respect for others; treat people as you’d want to be treated.
Integrity; be honest and never lie, cheat or steal.
Loyalty; look after your mates and stick with them,
even when the going gets tough.
Selfless commitment; put the team, your mates and the mission
before yourself.
41
HAC on top
of the Slopes
E
xercise Spartan Hike is a divisional
level ski meeting (Nordic and Alpine)
as well as the Army Reserve Nordic
Ski Championships. The aim of the exercise
is to introduce personnel to Nordic and
Alpine ski racing in a safe and controlled
environment and qualify teams for the
Army Championships.
The Honourable Artillery Company
(HAC) returned home from the ski slopes
of Alpe D’huez and Serre Chevalier in
France with another clutch of awards.
This year the HAC had particular success
in the Alpine category when it topped
all units from London District, was the
top Reserve unit and came second in the
overall championships.
There were individual successes for
Trooper Henry Neel and Lance Sergeant
Charlie Martin came 1st and 2nd
respectively in the Alpine Reservist Seniors
category and in the Nordic championships
Trooper Michael Conlon came 2nd in the
Reservist Novice category.
Captains Rob Ronz and Tim Bradshaw,
LSgt Martin, Tpr Emily Handfield-Jones
and Tpr Neel all qualified for the Army
National Championships.
More details about Army skiing can be
found at www.awsa.org.uk
And the HAC at www.hac.org.uk
Photo: HRH Prince Michael of Kent, Royal Colonel, with team members.
ARQ Spring 2014
42
Pension Planning
M
ore details have been announced of
the Army Reserve pensions. From
1 April 2015 all Army Reservists will
belong to the Armed Forces Pension Scheme
2015 (AFPS 15) and man training days will count
towards pensionable service.
However, members of the Army Reserve who belong to the
Reserve Forces Pension Scheme 2005 (RFPS 05), because of
mobilised service, full time reserve service or additional duties
commitments will be covered by separate rules. Unless they have
transitional protection (roughly those aged 50 or over on 1 April
2012) all members of RFPS 05 will transfer to AFPS.
There are a number of documents with more
information, but in summary;
Members of RFPS 05 will need to
complete a vesting period of two years
in either of the schemes. For example
if soldiers have served two years in RFPS
05 they will not need to have a vesting
period in AFPS 15, if they have been in
RFPS 05 for one year, they will need to
do one year vesting in AFPS 15.
The vesting period is the amount of time that
an Army Reservist must be in the scheme before
becoming a full member, it is two calendar years.
During this two year period Army Reservists will be
covered by the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
for injuries attributable to service, but will not be
entitled to any monetary benefits under the pension
scheme. After the vesting period is completed
full membership is back dated two years so no
entitlement is lost.
The Government has decided that previous
Army Reserve service on man training days will
not count towards the vesting period, nor will
pension contributions be made for previous
Army Reserve service on MTDs.
All RFPS 05 pension earned in periods
ending prior to 1 April 2015 are
protected, can not be changed, and will
be paid under RFPS 05 rules.
Fuller details are in Army Briefing Note
011/14 dated 17 January. If viewed on
the Army intranet embedded links take
readers to other information. If you can
not access the Army intranet ask to see
2012DIN01-175, 2012DIN01-249 and
2014DIN01-007.
PTSD Resolution
PTSD Resolution is a charity created to provide service leavers, veterans,
reservists and dependants treatment for post-traumatic stress and related
symptoms that is not available through the normal channels in that it is
immediately available, local to where they live, brief in duration, private,
non-intrusive, and highly effective.
This is delivered through our network of some 200 therapists UK-wide.
If you know something is wrong, which is preventing
you from achieving or performing,now or in the future,
contact PTSD Resolution on 0845 021 7873
for immediate, local, brief, effective help.
Details can be seen at www.ptsdresolution.org
ARQ Spring 2014
43
African Mission
for Militia
T
his January 108 (Wales)
Field Squadron of the Royal
Monmouthshire Royal Engineers
(Militia) (R Mons RE(M)) deployed to Kenya
on Exercise Askari Storm 5.
The mission was to provide close engineer
support in an austere and challenging
environment, both in a real time and in
exercise role.
It was the first time that the R Mons RE
(M) have deployed in a combat engineer
role as a formed Troop since Operation
Telic in Iraq.
On arrival in Kenya they were quickly
briefed on the dangers that were out on
the ground such as Black Mamba snakes
and scorpions before moving to Forward
Operating Base (FOB) Swara.
The journey gave everyone the
opportunity to get close to see
springboks, zebras, giraffes and elephants.
Once on the exercise the Royal Engineers
were used to support infantry companies
by filling in anti-tank ditches with the use
of a Medium Wheeled Tractor (MWT) and
crossing gaps with the use of the bridges.
ARQ Spring 2014
44
The event will take place in August this year to mark the centenary of
the outbreak of the Great War.
The Army Reservists are in 350 Field Squadron, 73 Engineer Regiment,
based at Chilwell in Nottingham.
Daniel Waterfield told ARQ “We have already started training and
are looking forward to the challenge knowing that we will be raising
important funds for the Soldiers Charity which gives support to both
serving and retired soldiers and their families.
Sappers Cycle
The Somme
“The route will start at the Horse Guards in London before cycling
through Kent, crossing the channel and then following the length of
the British and Commonwealth section of the Western Front from
Nieuwpoort in Belgium and finishing in Compiegne near Paris four
days later.”
hree Army Reservists from Derbyshire and
Nottinghamshire are set to embark on a 350
mile cycling tour across the former World
War One battlefields in France and Belgium
to raise vital cash for a charity close to their hearts.
To sponsor any of the Reservists taking part please visit their Just
Giving web pages as shown below:
http://www.justgiving.com/Daniel-Waterfield2
http://www.justgiving.com/Josh-Carlisle
http://www.justgiving.com/Damien-Richmond
T
Sergeant Daniel Waterfield and Lance Corporals Joshua Carlisle
and Damien Richmond hope to raise a joint total of £3000 for the
Soldier’s Charity (Army Benevolent Fund) by cycling hundreds of
miles across former battlefields.
To find out more about 350 Field Squadron visit:
http://www.army.mod.uk/royalengineers/units/28728.aspx
Photo: Sergeant Waterfield and LCpl Carlisle
T
he Army Engagement
Group (AEG) part
of Army Media and
Communication
is touring universities to
explain the Army to academics.
Col Simon Browne of the AEG
In February it was the turn of Oxford
academics to host the AEG at an
entertaining and informative dinner at
Pembroke College.
The evening combined a topical reflective look
at the First World War with the opportunity
to explain how and why the Army Reserve is
enlarging, concentrating specifically on the
role of Specialist Group Military Intelligence
and the vacancies within it.
Entertained by the Waterloo Band of The
Rifles, an Army Reserve unit, the 80 guests sat
down to dinner in the magnificent Pembroke
College Hall. Each course was interspersed
with illuminating talks by four distinguished
authors and First World War historians.
Interestingly the audience heard that is was
an Oxfordshire regiment, The Queen’s Own
Oxfordshire Hussars who were the first
Reserve soldiers to be sent into action in
1914 by Winston Churchill.
(QOOH is now a squadron of Royal Signals)
ARQ Spring 2014
Engaging in Oxford
Specialist Group Military Intelligence
The Group will operate in three distinct areas:
1. Regional & Thematic Intelligence Specialists, this will need people with overseas
experience or graduates of foreign languages,
2. Human Domain requiring the likes of anthropologists, psychologists, linguists and
those with the knowledge of countries infrastructure systems;
3. Technical Intelligence Specialist Organisation who’ll need the likes of weapons
analysts and nuclear physicists.
45
It’s all
in the Name
Army Reservists from 4th Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment
mark the arrival of the new signage for Fontenay Barracks in Barnsley.
Lieutenant Colonel Iain MacDonald, the Commanding Officer, said:
“Seeing the new signage go up today is a real milestone
in the new way ahead for the Army Reserve.
It is an exciting future with a wider range of roles,
better training and more opportunities to do things
that you’d never imagine you’d be doing.”
E
xcept where legally required the name Army
Reserve should now be exclusively used to
describe part time members of the Army.
(There is no ‘s’ at the end of Reserve.)
There is no abbreviation for Army Reserve
Army Reserve and Army Reservist should be used
in full wherever possible to differentiate from the
reserves of the other two Services.
Army Reserve and hybrid units should ensure their
digital platforms, including, facebook, armynet,
and other sites, are changed to remove the terms
TA, Territorial Army, (Volunteer) and (V) .
Notepaper, signature blocks, addresses, unit
publications should also be updated.
There is no logo for the Army Reserve,
the Army Crest is used across the Army.
Pembroke College
ARQ Spring 2014
Government Security
Classification System
One Page Factsheet
A ‘GSC Survival Guide’ giving more detail on the summary below is available on the Defence Intranet.
Why
The change is being introduced on 2 April 2014 to ensure all parts of government work to a single and
simpler method of classifying information. This will help save taxpayers’ money. It will also enable a more
flexible approach to security, while improving the security of government information by encouraging
everyone think more about how best to protect it.
What
The old six classifications are reducing to three.
Nothing is changing about dealing with information at SECRET and TOP SECRET.
The old classifications of CONFIDENTIAL, RESTRICTED, PROTECT and UNCLASSIFIED will no longer be used –
except where this is specifically necessary (for example to do business internationally or on certain contracts
with industry).
From April 2014, all information below SECRET will automatically be classified OFFICIAL.
Information with the old markings does not need to be reclassified - and should continue to be protected
according to the previous rules.
How to Handle
Unlike some other government departments, MOD policy is that OFFICIAL information should not be
marked unless it is sensitive – in which case it should be marked (as you would expect) OFFICIAL SENSITIVE;
in some cases there may be a descriptor as well (more guidance/detail is available in the GSC Survival
Guide).
Unmarked OFFICIAL information may be shared inside and outside MOD (including over the internet)
provided you yourself have no reason to think it needs greater protection (for example if it contains private
personal data). So you just need to think whether you yourself are aware of any sensitivity; this is a matter of
common sense and there is helpful advice in the GSC Survival Guide.
OFFICIAL SENSITIVE information should broadly be treated like old RESTRICTED information, with the
important exception that subject to certain strict rules it can be sent over the internet and even worked
on using personal computers. If there is also a descriptor, the information must be stored in locked down
MOSS team sites. (More guidance/detail is available in the GSC Survival Guide).
No immediate changes are being made to DII(F), e.g. to reflect that RESTRICTED and UNCLASSIFIED will no
longer be valid. These changes will happen over time as DII(F) undergoes scheduled upgrades. But in the
interim the simple rule-of-thumb for DII(F) is to handle unmarked information as if it were UNCLASSIFIED,
and OFFICIAL SENSITIVE as if it were RESTRICTED.
Unless there is a specific exemption, information that would previously have been CONFIDENTIAL should be
tested to see if it meets the new test for SECRET. If not, it will normally become OFFICIAL SENSITIVE.
!
Version 07-02-2014
The guidance in this booklet is being developed for use
from April 2014. It is not yet complete or final but is being
shared in order to raise awareness and seek feedback so
that the finished product can be as helpful as possible
47
Mechanics in the
Mountains
A
by Sarah Guilfoyle
fter two days waiting in
Kathmandu airport, Nepal,
12 members of 103 Battalion
REME and two mountain
leaders finally landed at Lukla, known
as the world’s most dangerous airport
at 9186ft/2800m ready for our trek of
a lifetime on Exercise Himalayan Tiger.
The delay, after a year’s planning and
training, meant we were raring to
discover what the Himalayas had to offer
and just how hard trekking at extremely
high altitude would be.
The climb from Lukla to Namchee Bazar
(10958 ft/3340m) provided a gentle
introduction to trekking. We soon developed
an admiration for the Sherpas carrying
enormous loads of trekkers bags, food
and most notably a new fridge freezer. An
attempt by Private James Passfield to pick
up a Sherpa’s load failed and we quickly
appreciated our 33-44lb (15 – 20kg) packs.
The tracks were shared with horses and dzos
(a cross between a horse and a yak) who
definitely had the right of way. Blue sky days
gave us a chance to take in the stunning
views, which would only improve with height,
and provided a welcome distraction from the
rickety bridges we crossed.
ARQ Spring 2014
48
Our acclimatisation day took us to the
Everest View Hotel for our first proper view
of the world’s tallest mountain which is best
appreciated with a steaming cup of hot
chocolate. This served as great inspiration for
us for the rest of the trek.
Moving on from Namchee Bazar the hard
work really began. The ”walk high sleep
low” routine led to a lot of ‘down’ which
at times was disheartening as we knew how
hard it would be to regain the altitude. [This
is the maxim used by climbers. You can climb
more than 1,000 feet (305 metres) in a day
as long as you come back down and sleep
at a lower altitude].
Being self-sufficient we carried our own kit
but stayed in tea houses. They were essentially
buildings with plywood partitions to make
basic twin rooms, their standard varying
with altitude. Invariably there was ice on the
inside of windows on arrival or as soon as the
ARQ Spring 2014
sun went down, there was a distinct lack of
sinks and at altitude toilets freeze. Each tea
house has a communal room with a yak dung
burner which provides a warm escape and
somewhere to relax and eat.
Once we left Machermo at 14,468’ (4410m)
there was a step change in the scenery and
it took “stunning” to a new level. Days of
walking in t-shirts were behind us as the
temperature dropped but we didn’t mind
given our surroundings. We reached the
first of the Gokyo Lakes in time for our
Remembrance Day service.
The following day started at 4am to ensure
the summit of Gokyo Ri (17,486’/5330m)
was reached in time for views of sunrise
over Everest.
Lieutenant Rosy Armstrong claimed to have
been: “the coldest I have ever been in my
life” while slowly snaking to the summit by
torchlight. Each step was a challenge in the
numbing cold but once the sun came up the
pain began to recede into a memory and the
amazing views took over.
After thawing out over breakfast we crossed
a glacier to reach the base of the Cho La Pass,
our next challenge. The pass is a notoriously
hard day’s trekking and we were nervous as we
started. A false peak taunted us as we realised
the pass was somewhere in the snowy distance
and we had a few more hours of dropping
down to come back up.
An uncharacteristic amount of snow required
the deployment of crampon socks (socks
on the outside of your boots!) by some to
preserve their coccyx’s.
We finally conquered the pass after climbing
what felt like a vertical snow wall of steps and
soaked up the sunshine and our achievements.
That night’s tea house was permanently
“around the next corner” but eventually after
eight hours we arrived for a well earned rest.
49
Our final challenge was Kala Pattar at 18,000’/
5500m with the darkness hiding the steepness
of the ascent which we were glad of.
We headed towards what we thought was
the peak and our hearts sank as we carried on
past heading towards a light in the distance.
The boulders which separated us from the
peak seemed infinite but eventually the last
of the group crawled to the top for views
down on to Everest Base camp, enjoying the
thought that the only way from now on
was down.
With every metre descended we felt renewed
energy and enjoyed the increased oxygen
levels. Being able to talk easily again we
shared our excitement at the thought of hot
showers and a pizza in Kathmandu. The trek
wasn’t over though as it was a two day walk
back to Lukla before rest and recuperation
in Kathmandu.
Thankfully our flight from Lukla departed on
time and we were soon back in the relative
luxury of Kathmandu.
Having seen most of the key sites of
Kathmandu on our acclimatisation we felt at
home bartering and wandering the streets.
All too soon we were on the plane with
the mountains disappearing in to the
distance. Everyone agreed that the trip
had been a once in a lifetime experience
and at one (or many) stages everyone
struggled and overcame personal
challenges to continue.
Sergeant Issy Sage described it as: “the most
mentally and physically demanding event
I have ever undertaken”.
We struggled to get Pte James Passfield back
on the plane, claiming he’d “just stay
a couple more weeks and do Everest”.
Maybe that’s an idea for the next
Battalion trip.
Pte James Passfield and WO2 Rob Millward
ARQ Spring 2014
50
Ski the Alps in 2015
by Captain Tania Noakes
A
t what point exactly
are you are committed?
Perhaps it’s difficult
to identify the precise
moment, the turning point, after
which there is no going back
without consequence? Is it when
you first have the idea? First feel
the irresistible pull of a feeling from
somewhere and nowhere which
spins you sideways in a way you
never anticipated…
The idea of Exercise Alpine Arc 2015
has been inside me for years.
Yet the idea of a single continuous journey
through this amazing mountain range, linking
various familiar and less familiar sections,
starting close to Vienna in Austria and finishing
on the Mediterranean coast of France seemed
almost too big to contemplate at first.
Last summer, suddenly, that idea no longer
seemed too big to contemplate.
So I committed to organising and leading
Exercise Alpine Arc 2015, a journey that I
hope will inspire you to rise to the challenge.
Here’s your chance to choose a section of the
journey that will be your own adventure…
your own challenge.
I have divided the journey into 11 stages
of roughly eight days duration between 1
January to 10 April 2015 . There will be six
places available for each stage and a certain
minimum level of fitness and off piste alpine
ski ability will be required by applicants.
ARQ Spring 2014
This could be your chance to commit to
your dream.
You can get more information in DIN Ref:
2013DIN07-166 or by contacting me direct
on Exercisealpinearc2015@gmail.com .
The chosen candidates will be announced on
31 May 2014.
51
Philippines
Mission
for Royal
Engineer
by Sapper Jason Emms
S
apper Jason Emms is
a London based Army
Reservist who serves with
131 Independent Commando
Squadron, Royal Engineers. In
August 2013, he deployed with
24 Commando Engineer Regiment
on Exercise Cougar 13 as part of
the UK’s high readiness maritime
Response Force Task Group.
This involved a series of naval,
land and air exercises which took
him to Gibraltar, Albania, Turkey,
Crete, Djibouti, Oman and India. In
November, as he was getting ready
to return home from the other side
of the globe, the order came for
him to transfer to HMS Illustrious
in Singapore. From there the ship
made best speed to the Philippines
in support of Operation Patwin, the
UK’s relief operation in the wake of
Typhoon Hayyan.
ARQ Spring 2014
52
Sapper Emms describes the operation
which became known as Op Patwin.
Following our four month deployment,
we had been rewarded with some welldeserved rest and recreation in Goa, India,
one of the best party spots in South Asia.
Now homeward bound, morale aboard
HMS Bulwark was very good. We had
heard some information that a hurricane
had hit the Philippines, but in having just
sporadic access to printed or televised
news we had no idea to the extent of
devastation, or indeed that the UK was
considering deploying assets to assist the
humanitarian aid effort.
Our first notice came when our troop
commander came to the mess with
instructions that we had 60 minutes get our
ARQ Spring 2014
field kit and personal items packed and up
on the flight deck ready to cross deck to HMS
Illustrious, Sons of Anarchy season 3, would
have to wait for another day. Moving across
would be our section of engineers, plus
members of 42 Commando.
It would take a full six days of sailing, just
below the maximum speed of 30 knots, to
reach Singapore where the food aid and
supplies were waiting to be loaded in the
hanger decks.
On our first night there, us Sappers (Royal
Engineers) and Bootnecks (Royal Marines)
shifted 100 tonnes of rice sacks into the
hangar deck by hand. For the following
two days we continued to take on supplies
until the hangar deck was full with a total
stores load of 500 tonnes.
With HMS “Lusty” Illustrious being a
helicopter carrier, it was only a short sail to
the Philippines. Military planners and the
Department for International Development
(DFID) had decided that the best use of Lusty’s
capabilities would be in using helicopters to
recce small islands, which up to that point
had received no humanitarian assistance,
and determine which areas needed aid and
reconstruction work. Subsequently, the
helicopters would be underslung with supplies
that could be dropped into the areas that
needed it the most.
My first experience on the ground involved
landing in a small community, where it
had been established that the best use of
resources was to rebuild the roof on a church
and the local school. After being dropped off
by Sea King on the beach in the evening, we
set up bashers,(shelters) and met members of
the community who were very pleased with
our arrival.
53
The locals distributed the aid amongst
themselves, each local town is known
as a barangay, and the person in charge
of the town in known as a barangay
captain. He ensured that each family
got its allocated amount of food.
After a number of other taskings, and
once Lusty had finished delivery of
its aid to the Philippines, we had one
night ashore in the capital Manila. After
nearly a month on the ground, it was
confirmed that our job was done and
that we’d be flying back to the UK,
just in time to be with our families and
friends for Christmas and the New Year.
The following morning our stores were
dropped off, and after collecting wood
from around the buildings, we began
the roofing task of rebuilding the roof
using wood beams and tarpaulin. It took
two days to complete the tasks, and the
buildings were now in a usable condition.
Christianity is a very important part of
life in the region and the church forms a
major part of the community, so getting
the church roof fixed was appreciated
massively by the locals. The parents
were very thankful for us helping to
get the school up and running as by
that stage it had been closed for a few
weeks, and now the children were back
at school the parents could focus on
rebuilding their own family homes.
The next detail was for eight of us
to set up an aid distribution point.
People in this area were lacking
basic supplies, some having not
eaten for a number of days.
A helicopter landing site was set up,
and around five helicopters dropped
in food aid, which we moved with
help from the locals. There were
550 families in this community; and
we had a 20kg bag of rice for each
family, and another food bag which
contained canned food.
131 Independent Commando
Squadron is a widely travelled reserve
unit that has provided engineer
support to 3 Commando Brigade
Royal Marines for the last 35 years.
Its part-time soldiers undertake
the Commando Course to earn the
coveted Green Beret.
HMS Illustrious distributed around
500 tonnes of aid under the direction
of the Department for International
Development (DFID) which included
12,500 blankets, 20,000 candles,
30,000 rice bags, 9,800 tins of
sardines, 8100 tins of vegetables,
17,000 shelter kits, 1,000 jerry cans
and 1,900 water carriers.
ARQ Spring 2014
Let’s Keep
in Touch
ARQ welcomes stories from
Army Reserve units and personnel.
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ARQ has tickets to give away
for the best contributions to the
summer edition.
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ARQ Winter 2013 / 14
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