Blue Dog Bugle - 6 RAR Association

The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
Blue Dog Bugle
Command Team Insight
Commanding Officer MTF-1 - Lieutenant Colonel Jason Blain, CSC
Regimental Sergeant Major - Warrant Officer Class One Stephan Colman
FROM THE COMMANDING OFFICER
May 2010
Volume 1, Issue 3
Inside this Issue
1
Welcome by the Commanding
Officer of the MTF
2
RSM ‘s View‘s
S1 Cell - Headquarters
Mentoring Task Force 1
3
Mentoring Team – Alpha
(MT –A)
4
Mentoring Team Charlie
(MT-C)
5
Combat Team Delta (CT-D)
6
Mentoring Team – Echo (MT-E)
7
Mentoring Team – Foxtrot
(MT-F)
8
Mentoring Team - Golf
(MT-G)
Engineer Task Unit (ETU)
12
Logistics Support Company
(LSC)
14
Padre
The men and women of MTF-1 are continuing their great work in Uruzgan
Province, Afghanistan. Working side by side with our Afghan National Army and
coalition partners we have made some real progress in security and development in
the province. Recently many members of the Battle Group were involved in
Operation JENUB FAYDA (Pashto for Southern Advantage). This operation was
aimed at expanding security and development opportunities in southern BALUCHI
Valley as well as increasing the capability of the Afghan National Army. It was a
success on all fronts and our soldiers continue to work hard in this area to reinforce
the gains made as part of this operation.
We have had a number of high profile visits recently and we all appreciated the
Governor General visiting prior to ANZAC Day. Her Excellency expressed her
pride and gratitude for the difficult and demanding job being done by all members
of MTF-1. The Minister of Defence (Senator John Faulkner) joined us for ANZAC
Day and his speech to the men and women serving here was inspiring. Senator
Faulkner acknowledged the dangers faced by our soldiers and the legacy we hold as
the modern ANZACs.
ANZAC Day was commemorated in different ways by the MTF, however all Patrol
Bases held a dignified Dawn Service and reflected on the sacrifices of those who
have gone before us. At the main base in Tarin Kowt we were able to participate in
Two Up and Crown and Anchor with money raised destined for Legacy. All
members at all Patrol Bases and at the HQ in Tarin Kowt were able to enjoy a
couple of beers thanks to the generosity of Carlton United Breweries. They sent us
1800 cans of VB and with the temperature warming up the cold beers went down a
treat.
Our leave period has commenced and members of the Battle Group are en-route to
vacations in Europe or back home with families. They have all earned their break
and I hope all have a relaxing and enjoyable leave period. In order for us to
continue our operational tempo we have had our reinforcement Platoon Groups
arrive from Australia. The men and women of these Platoons have completed their
final training here at Tarin Kowt and many are now outside the wire conducting
operations with the Afghan National Army. Having observed these soldiers training
in Australia I know they will perform extremely well in the field.
I hope the Blue Dog Bugle continues to provide you a good snapshot of what your
loved ones are doing in Afghanistan. Our rear details staff and welfare officers
continue to work hard to assist families and partners and I thank all those involved
in the recent Open Day in Enoggera. Please keep letting us know what we can do to
assist you during the absence of your loved one while they continue to serve with
distinction in Afghanistan.
Jason Blain
LTCOL
CO 6 RAR BG (MTF-1)
1
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
BLUE DOG BUGLE
RSM’s View
Hello Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls,
We are well and truly into the deployment and your wives, husbands, girlfriends and boyfriends are doing a magnificent job
within their own fields of expertise. The soldiers on the ground outside of MNB-TK are doing well under difficult circumstances
and are unsettling the insurgency within their area of operations (AO). We have had numerous visitors to the area and all have
commented on the outstanding work MTF-1 has done. We have unfortunately suffered a number of casualties with some being
returned to Australia for further treatment, all are expected to make full recoveries and return to work in the future.
The Bushmaster vehicle is excellent and offers us great protection when travelling throughout the AO. The Engineers work has
been invaluable and they are doing well identifying where the improvised explosive devices are and dealing with them
accordingly. The Infantry are patrolling in various types of terrain and encountering the insurgents, winning the encounters they
have had. Logistic Support Company (LSC) is supporting the Battle Group well and is working long hours to keep the troops in
the field supplied with what they need to perform their duties. When we visit the troops they are in good spirits and have their own
stories to convey, these young men and women continue to amaze me with their attitudes and devotion to duty. I know that they
all miss their families and make the most of an opportunity to contact home. We have been well supported by you and from a very
large part of the community in Australia sending care parcels, letters and good will messages.
ANZAC Day was commemorated across the AO with services held in all locations which went very well. A number of personnel
were able to have two beers on the day and others will take the opportunity when it avails itself. To you all thanks for your
support and keep it coming to my wife Margaret thanks.
Headquarters Mentoring Task Force 1
From the ADJT/S1/Welfare Officer - CAPT Andy McCarthy
ROCL/ROCTFA has commenced this month, for the S1 cell this was a huge relief. Volcano’s, Passports and Visa’s aside it was
good to see the first groups going home to AS to see family and friends or off for a well deserved holiday abroad.
Births:
Congratulations to SGT’s Harry and Rebecca Kleid, CAPT Brendan and Emma Perkins and CPL Craig
and Nicole Gresham.
A monthly reminder to all families that this Newsletter is available both electronically (via email) or Australia Post for hard
copies. This can be organised through the Unit Welfare Officer in Australia, CAPT Graham Palmer ((07) 33327825 or 0438
464164). If you would like this to go to other family members (Mothers/Fathers) this can be organised through CAPT Palmer.
2
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
Mentoring Team – Alpha (MT –A)
The ‘Regulators’ of 2 Pl, Callsign I12
Since the last Bugle, Mentoring Team Alpha (MT-A) has maintained our commitment to the local nationals of the Mirabad Valley
Region in support of the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) and Afghan Government. Our main effort remains the people
of the Uruzgan Province..
The Mentoring Team was able to provide much needed medical support to the local population during a combined Afghan
National Army (ANA) and Australian medical clinic, which was conducted in the heart of one of the local villages. With the aid
of an additional medical team including the Battlegroup doctor CAPT Glen Mullhall we treated over 60 locals over the course of
the 2 day clinic. Illnesses and conditions ranged from simple stomach complaints to some possible cancer cases. Most of the
illnesses could be solved by providing the area with clean water, we have a few ideas how to achieve this but it will take some
time.
ANA and MT-A have continued to have success finding numerous caches and improvised explosive device (IED) which goes
some way to providing security to the people of the Mirabad Valley. This success has come at a price with PTE Sam Smith and
CAPT Callum Pollock needing to be evacuated to Tarin Kowt for minor injuries. LCPL Craig Gresham PTE Tim Wilson, and
CAPT Aaron Cimbaljevic have all had to return to Australia the latter two for further treatment and are doing well, the entire
Mentoring Team wish them a speedy recovery. We also pass on our best to SGT Grant Carter and hope to see him very soon.
We welcome a new OC into the Mentoring Team, Major Peter Ketton who has replaced Major Jason Groat who has returned to
Australia.
MT-A enjoys an extremely good rapport with our ANA partners and the local nationals in Mirabad. Although there is a very real
threat present in the valley the Mentoring Team remain in high spirits and continue to work extremely hard with very positive
results. The mentoring team is in awe of the support we receive from our
loved ones and the general Australian population and greatly appreciate your efforts. A puzzling thing is the number of
Cosmopolitan, Women’s weekly and New Idea mags we receive from 39 PSB, not quite sure why but a few Bike, Car, Ralph,
Sporting and Topical mags instead would be nice. Until next month…..
3
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
Mentoring Team Charlie (MT-C)
A1 Echelon (V38)
G’day all,
We are a group of 5 RAEME tradesmen that provide maintenance support to MT-C, I guess you could say that we are a bit like
the RACQ of the Company. We have 2 mechanics, an armourer, an electronics technician and a recovery mechanic. We have two
maintenance variant ASLAV’s (Gun Cars) that provide us with a mobile workshop. Our job in Afghanistan is to move around the
outlying Patrol Bases and repair any equipment that goes down. So far we have been busy with weapons, night vision equipment,
vehicle services and in the wetter months; recovering vehicles from the mud.
Some of our highlights so far have been:
• Throwing sheets of ice at each other after water puddles had frozen over during the night.
• Seeing a Bedouin convey where they had strapped a chicken by the feet to the back of a donkey.
• Initiating CAPT Dean Scmidt into our team as our rear gunner for a trip to FOB Mirwais. He now believes he is a fully
fledged RAEME brother.
• Having a poor attempt at a beard growing competition.
• Seeing how many people the Afghanis can squeeze into a Toyota Hilux. About six in the dual cab and about ten more in
the tray.
We would like to thank our loved ones for their love and support. We miss you very much and we will be home with you soon.
Arte et Marte
4
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
Combat Team Delta (CT-D) in Afghanistan
It is hard to believe it’s May already! The Combat Team has been so busy that time is positively flying by.
The first of our team members have already begun returning home on ROCL while the rest of us continue
to provide the Battlegroup’s mobile combat element.
Our predictions of seeing more of Uruzgan than any other element of MTF-1 has come true. Almost all of
the Combat Team has been to every patrol base, supplementing the Australian and Dutch forces as they mentor and train the
Afghan National Army (ANA). This variety has been welcomed as if you can remember from the last edition of the Blue Dog
Bugle, the landscape of Uruzgan is simply stunning.
Mentoring the ANA has been a challenge for all members of the Task Force, but particularly for Combat Team Delta. We are not
structured to be a ‘mentor team’ so it is a testament to the ingenuity and flexibility of our soldiers that they can bond with soldiers
of a very different culture and language and raise them to a higher standard. We are sure every digger in the Combat Team will
have an amusing ANA experience to tell when they return.
We have settled into a very busy and honestly at times frantic, but workable routine for our tasks. There is at times literally a
spreadsheet the size of a wall in the 2IC’s office detailing where everyone needs to be! It is proving a fantastic experience for
everyone involved. The Combat Team and Platoon staff have worked hard to ensure that every soldier gets the most out of this
deployment, and as the stories we are sure will tell, no one is missing out. For example on ANZAC day the Combat Team was
deployed on an Operation in the Baluchi Valley - for many of our soldiers this was their first ANZAC day away from home. We
were able to perform a dawn service as the sun rose over the Afghan mountains, enjoy a traditional tot of rum in our morning
brew, then patrol out and continue our job. A very special ANZAC day for all involved.
The weeks and months ahead look to be as busy as any we have encountered thus far in our tour. There will be more operations to
the far reaches of Uruzgan, more reconstruction and more engagement with the locals. In other words, more of everything we
have done with more to look forward to. And of course, we will begin returning home for our mid-tour leave.
Everyone here is missing home and our families. But the mail keeps coming in and the messages of love and support from you at
home never fail to keep us motivated. Again, thankyou from every here at Combat Team Delta and stay tuned for more news from
Afghanistan.
5
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
MT Echo
Since the last Bugle the members of MT-E have been conducting operations in Mirabad Valley, the Baluchi region, Tarin Kowt as
well as operating in neighbouring Kandahar province.
The entire mentor team came together to successfully mentor the ANA through the conduct of the largest ever convoy operation
for the 4th ANA Brigade. The convoy from Tarin Kowt to Kandahar enabled the ANA to resupply their forces, pick up
reinforcements and new equipment, enabling them to continue their development and successful operations within Uruzgan
Province. The convoy also allowed the mentors to take some time out at the vast Kandahar Air Base and do a bit of shopping for
gifts to send home to our loved ones.
MT-E with the A10 at Kandahar Air Field
After returning to the province MT-E has dispersed across the AO to support the range of operations in Uruzgan.
In the Baluchi region to the north of TK the Recon mentors (AKA “Special – to themselves anyway – Forces”) have been
conducting recon, screening and overwatch tasks in support of the Battlegroup operations, while the Engineers (AKA “Ginger
Beers”, with extra emphasis on the ‘ginger’) have completed numerous search and clearance operations in the valleys below.
CAPT Hodge was also attached to the operational HQ to assist with the major operation, and give his stomach a rest from the
copious amounts of ANA chi tea he was consuming for his duties back in TK.
Over in the Mirabad Valley, east of TK, LT Harrison and Cpl Grantham are mentoring the ANA engineers as they conduct
security patrolling and searches throughout the valley – having great success in uncovering Taliban weapons caches and supply
dumps. Cpl Uppman continues to mentor the ANA recon soldiers in Mirabad after MT-E reluctantly lost SGT Lanigan to CT-D.
The OC was also forced to sign out CAPT Fahey to MT-A, who was sent to Mirabad to assist with their operations.
Meanwhile back at the ranch…
In TK the HQ continues to mentor the 4th Kandak through planning future operations, manning and logistic issues. In a concerted
effort to ‘get outside the gate’ the OC - MAJ Ryan and CSM - WO2 Doyle managed to
hitch a ride to visit the MT-E boys and the 4th Kandak troops in Mirabad and were even treated to a traditional Afghan meal on
arrival, it was probably good for their stomachs to get back to TK at the end of the day, although it was rumoured that the main
course was happily walking around the FOB the day before.
6
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
The Artillery mentors (“The Gunners”) have made huge progress with the ANA – particularly with their equipment – and, fingers
crossed, will be overseeing the first firing of the ANA artillery in Uruzgan in the next few months. This will be a huge
achievement for the ANA and MT-E.
As always the hard work of the mentors and the Battlegroup is only part of the picture and the continued, unwavering support
from our loved ones back home is providing the essential motivation and support for the guys here in Afghanistan. To everyone
back home – thanks for your help, we appreciate it more than you know.
OP TOR GHAR III convoy to Kandahar
CSS OMLT (MT - Foxtrot)
Hello again from Mentoring Team (MT) Foxtrot or as we like to call it MT Flexible, Fragmented and Facetious. First of all too all
our family and friends a big hi and thanks for the support. I think Streety is winning in the number of mail packages (Crackers is
not far away), so to all other family members keep them coming as we do appreciate them. As with all things Army, some changes
have been made. First, the great return of WO2 Steven Doehnert to the team has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to
the maintenance side; you can see I am writing this can’t you. WO1 Brown has been on ROCL and over this time he sat for his
selection board to transfer to the dark side (and was successful), the Empire will be happy. An operational promotion will see him
made up to CAPT and moved onto Kandahar. Congratulations WO1 Brown, oops, CAPT Brown.
Our good CAPT Howells was volunteered for a stand in watch keeper and was so good at it he is now on the permanent staff. He
loves doing the late shift (midnight to dawn), as it gives him time to catch up on all the Non Technical Inspection paperwork. He
is looking rather pale as only glimpses of him are seen in the fading light of dusk, as he makes his way to his crypt. This all should
end once he returns from ROCL, which he and WO2 Johnson are off on in the next week or so. Lucky LT Morgan is on ROCL
now, not bad being last into country and first out.
WO2 Darren O’Connell our resident carpenter come signaller has almost completed the radio comms repair room renovations,
with the help of our resident Steptoe and Son aka WO2 Johnson and SGT Carpenter, begging,
stealing and borrowing any piece of wood they could lay their hands on. Good job boys. As I mentioned earlier the knowledge and
experience of WO2 Doehnert came in handy as Darren’s TA.
7
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
We conducted a MAG 58 range shoot; low and behold we have found the replacement for Steven Segal in the Under Siege series,
when our resident cook and CSM WO2 Pete Clothier who kept to his nick name of Chora Pete with superb marksmanship skills
by destroying all targets with devastating firepower and with a twinkle in his eye. Look out Arnie, Rambo and Bruce.
Unfortunately we in the MT-Foxtrot have had our first Non Battle Casualty, as a certain CAPT, who will not be named (CAPT
Weston) found himself entangled in a sticky situation following an altercation with a adhesive fly trap. The member is recovering
well with reports that there are no flies on him. Thanks for the morale boosting laughs Sir.
Our fearless leader (MAJ Chris Clapton) left us recently to attend a course on how the Afghan Army Logistics System works. 8
days away for a 2 day course (something to do with flight schedules or so he said). This left us in the hands of acting OC Dennis
Weston (our 2IC was on shift as mentioned above). He obviously did well as we are still here, or is it the boys did well as he is
still here? Either way, welcome back Boss and well done Dennis.
Our fractured days are now numbered as we will soon be reunited to assume full mentoring responsibility for our Afghan logistic
counterparts. This will present new challenges and hopefully some more interesting stories for the next edition.
Bde Mentoring Team (MT Golf)
The eight lads from the 4th ANA Bde Mentoring Team (MT Golf) continue to make improvements with the ANA and have well
and truly settled into an effective routine. Dave Lucas plans our recreation activities and has enabled the boys to get out to range
and also participate in a couple of minor team games. These games turned out to be a disaster, however, as all the boys still think
they’re eighteen and we’ve only just managed to avert a number of lads requiring full body castes.
At the start of the trip we all wrote short and long term goals to be achieved whilst in country and it is pleasing to see these goals
slowly being accomplished. All the lads in MT G can see the improvements in our Afghan partners (strictly work related) and we
estimate that the 4th ANA Bde will be a different organisation to the one we inherited in January.
As the days are ticking by everyone is getting excited about the prospect of seeing their families and having a well earned break.
Everyone in MT G is in good spirits and still thoroughly enjoying working with the ANA. Everyday is an adventure and the boys
are certainly appreciating the change from their normal jobs.
Engineer Task Unit (ETU)
Well hullo everybody once again from Engineers.
We have been very busy since we last wrote to you all.
Squadron Headquarters
The Squadron Sergeant Major, WO2 Panteli, and I went up to Combat Outpost MASHAL and Forward Operating Base
MIRWAIS the other week to visit the lads in the field. We went up on a resupply convoy. It was very dusty. The SSM decided
that he would ride shotgun up the front and keep an eye on the lads (CPL Blewitt and co and SGT Hartigan's EOD Team) and
their procedures so I was relegated to a Protected Mobility Vehicle at the end of the convoy. It was very dusty and congested
within Tarin Kowt and then became a mountainous moonscape once we left the main road heading north.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal
At MIRWAIS, I accompanied SGT Hartigan, Petty Officer Walker and Leading Seaman Twine on an explosive ordnance disposal
task. They were extremely methodical and professional and dealt with the task with a minimum of fuss. The soldiers from
Mentoring Team Charlie helped the Afghan Army soldiers keep children away during the task just as our police would back home
if the fire brigade turned up. Little children are the same everywhere - they always want to see - especially when there is a special
robot to watch! All the soldiers were cognisant of civilians during the task and were very thorough in ensuring that the little
children stayed away.
8
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
Mentoring Team Charlie Engineer Troop Commander
After that we caught up with CAPT Middleton, the engineer troop commander stationed there. He is attempting to grow a
moustache. He looks like a cross between Merv Hughes and Alby Mangels. We suggested he keep the mo to impress his lovely
lady friend (Lana is lovelier than any of the models who travelled with Alby). CAPT Middleton has been providing excellent
advice to Mentoring Team Charlie and conducts his duties in a very precise manner. He has also been getting some excellent care
packs sent to him from his Mum. The SSM and I complemented him on those care packs, especially the ones he told us he is
going to get very soon. Mother Middleton - Matt will certainly appreciate the efforts you went at the post office to ensure the
parcels were 'the correct weight'.
Mobile Trade Training School and Works Supervisor - Chora
We caught up with CPL Corrigan and SPR Sumskis as well. They have been running a mobile trade
training school in Mirwais with the local Chora lads. They have built a great chook house (and the
chickens are laying fresh eggs, boys and girls), a classroom, and have completed lots on repairs around the
base and run some great training up there. They have also adopted a little puppy called 9 MIL. There is a
photo of him attached, boys and girls. We shared a fantastic Afghan meal with them and their instructors a really nice lamb curry, tomato bruschetta Afghan style and fresh naan bread. These are the sort of things
you remember from these tours. We also saw WO2 Moylan who is running projects in vicinity of the base.
He is doing very well and joined us for the meal. It is amazing what 3 construction engineers can
accomplish if left to their own devices. They have really value added to the base and the area despite their
small size and are well regarded by all who they have supported.
Searchers and Responders
We left MIRWAIS and proceeded to MASHAL. There we caught up with CPL
Jauncey's team and SGT Corporal's EOD Team. These blokes are all in great spirits and
morale is high there. MASHAL is a real outpost. The lads have become quite lean and
have grown beards. SPR Edwards showed us a rifle they found and which he has
restored - a 1919 Lee Enfield. When I first saw him, he looked like one of the members
of the Contiki Expedition! Clarkey has been building around the base - quality work
check out the photo. Spin looks more and more like Wolverine every time we see him.
Find enclosed some shots of the lads. It was great to see them and they are doing very
well.
Force Engineer Construction Team
Speaking of which, the FECT have been doing some great work out at Patrol Base Wali upgrading their kitchen and facilities.
They will be doing the same elsewhere soon. For a small group they do a great job and whilst their job may not be the most
savoury, they are amongst the most sexy and savvy people in the Battle Group. Just ask SGT Walker – you would be forgiven for
thinking you were at the Edinburgh Tattoo with the amount of Bagpipe music coming from his office!
Engr Observation and Mentoring Liaison Team (OMLT)
This hand picked and cover boy crew are located in MT-E (but we see them quite a bit). Kav, Fabian, Earpie, Flano, Buts and
Grantham are doing very well and are certainly at the coal face showing the ANA Engineers how to do things best. The ANA lads
they are working with are a genuinely good bunch. The guys are value adding especially given their size and they are side by side
in the field with their ANA Engr counterparts. We'll look to hearing some more from them in the next edition.
Works Team
Hi there just a few words about the Works Section.
The Works Section is a team of seven engineers, one Afghani and two American-Afghani
personnel who work on projects to benefit the people of Uruzgan. We work with the local
government to deliver projects that provide some of the things we take for granted in
Australia – like roads, schools, health clinics and shops. This involves us inspecting the
progress of the work to make sure the people are getting what they deserve.
Sometimes we are lucky to see more traditional forms of transportation like donkeys and
camel trains. The attached photo is Coco the Camel (as my daughter calls her) going past
9
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
one of our work sites. Also at this site Darren Fong our very own Australian-Afghani
surveying (an in joke as the locals always think that he is Afghani as he has made a real
effort to speak Pashto – plus there is also his moustache!). Sometimes we have the
chance to play with the children or just take the opportunity to provide a pen or two –
see the attached photos of us playing volley ball and talking with the kids.
Some of our more exciting work involves the construction of a new school for Girls in
Tarin Kowt and a new Mosque and Madrassa (a religious school) in Sorkh Marhgarb. I
have included pictures of these so you can see what we are trying to provide to the
community.
Well I hope that helps to explain some of the work we do. Speak to you next time
Concept drawing of Mosque and Madrassa
Concept of front entrance
General News
We now have commenced ROCL so all the soldiers are starting to head off to Australia or Europe and we wish them and their
loved ones well.
Some important visitors have seen us of late, most notably the Her Excellency, the Governor General. A counter IED display was
set up for her visit which was received very well. Families of combat engineers, dog handlers and EOD personnel – be very
assured that your fellows are well regarded, respected and recognised for their efforts.
We have also had a number of visits from senior officers and parliamentarians as well. We have started doing displays which
encompass all the different things we are doing - the works team have developed project booklets, we introduce the combat
10
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
engineers, dog handlers and EOD Technicians who may on base, the Trade Training School and the Force Engineer Construction
Team.
We have been working hard to keep the lads in the field informed and supported as much as possible. CPL Appleton and CAPT
Patchett have been doing some great work with respect to Patrol Base maintenance. We run into the lads from CPLs Hammond,
Toms, Stamp, Pahl and Blewitt’s teams when we see them and they are all busy but keeping well. They always come in to say
hullo and love a chat with the SSM, WO2 Panteli. And he doesn’t mind a chat either – Danielle, he certainly has the gift of the
gab!
I would like to add that I have spoken to Chief Petty Officer Harvey and SPRs Andrewartha, Parker-Benton, LeFanu and Brown
and they are doing well. The Chief has a fair way to go with his finger injury and Tommy will be off his feet for a while with his
broken leg. It was good to speak to them. SPR Andrewartha sounds like he is making the best of his wounded warrior status with
the ladies!
That’s all for this time. We will get some more input from CAPT Milburn’s team for the next edition.
Best regards to you all
MAJ Carl Miller
OC ETU
Logistics Support Company (LSC)
CHQ – Coy Clk
Admin is what everyone loves to hate. So far in the 3 months I have been here, the admin for LSC is running smoothly and at a
steady pace. The next few months will be a rollercoaster with the ROCL/ROCTFA movements having commenced and people
coming and going from Aust and abroad.
One of the most important jobs I have picked up is sorting and distribution of mail. The excitement I get when I go up and sort the
mail for hours on end only to have nothing with my name on it, well words just aren’t enough to describe the feeling... It has been
decided that with CAPT Cann always getting 2-3 parcels in each mail drop, CHQ will rotate in the task of helping open her mail
and then we can also share in the joy of receiving mail.
Q-Store
In the first article the RQ was quoted as saying ‘when the dust settles, everything will slow down’. Well, welcome to the Afghan
Summer and the dust storms.
It’s business as usual for the QWEES, busy supplying stores and equipment to the Battle Group and returning surplus and
unserviceable equipment to Australia. The QM has been kept very busy on the ADF supply Blog site (also known as “LNIDS”)
and with the maintenance of his beard.
This month has seen the importance of the humble battery, and the challenges get them delivered. The suppliers have been busy
individually boxing and consigning many thousands of batteries which provided many hours of enjoyment for everyone un-boxing
them at our end. We were also audited this month, so yes, corporate governance and stocktaking still occurs on operations.
Transport
This month was a relatively busy one for transport section with elements sent to Patrol Base (PB)
“WALI” to support the Engineers upgrading the PB. The section also had members deployed to PB
“MIRWAIS” to support operations in that area for a two week period. As usual we also had
numerous tasks in Tarin Kowt/ Kamp Holland supporting everyone in this area. Overall the guys and
gal are enjoying the fruitful and challenging tasking that appears on a regular basis.
11
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
Technical Support Platoon
Situation no change for the RAEME brethren in regards to work as equipment always requires maintenance and repairs
throughout Afghanistan. There have been some changes in the workshops size as we have managed to takeover the tent next door,
after it was vacated by the Air Movements’ people. The head shed and VM’s moved next door increasing their floor space and
allowing the electrical and fitter fraternity to spread out and increase the volume on our radio.
Tool of the week has also been implemented to reward the silliest comments or
biggest faux par within the workshop. All nominations are sorted and voted on after
Friday’s orders group and the winner is rewarded with a 4kg spanner which they are
to carry around for the week until the next tool is awarded. Sgt McAlister was the
inaugural winner just pipping the ASM in a closely fought battle.
ANZAC day on operations is
always special, and adding to
this we were lucky enough to
have a major workshop
involvement this year. We
combined our trade skills and
made lights for the memorial, lights for the lectern and installed steel pads
for the catafalque party to perform their drill movements on. Three of our
crafties were lucky enough to be involved in the catafalque party and
performed well on the day.
The ROCL period has started and the boys are excited to spread their wings
and either head home to Australia and see their family or travel around Europe looking for love. We wish the lads well and hope
they have an enjoyable holiday with refreshes them for the remainder of our tour.
Well that’s all for now, until next time……. Arte et Marte
RAP
So the members of the RAP are now into our third month and a considerable amount
has changed since we first arrived. We are no longer virgins to the resus bay, saving
lives and limbs, we have also picked up a few extra shifts which has helped us
develop further and adjust to the Dutch system.
We have seen almost everything from squeezing pimples, treating gastro outbreaks,
conquering the not so common cold to almost curing cancer... almost!
We have also seen our fair share of children in the resus bay which quite a different
experience for Army medical staff who are used to treating soldiers. Some of the staff
also recently got the chance to go out on ‘Medcap’ activities. That’s when we send a
team out to an Afghan community to conduct a health clinic. It was a really good
experience and we hope we made a bit of a difference.
Morale is as high as it has been all trip with weekly poker, fortnightly BBQs and of
course pay day brings the joy that helps us to survive. The RAP is slowly changing
with the up coming and needed ROCL/ROCTFA starting, this is finding the medics
starting to move all over the place doing their best to fill the gaps.
From the OC
Again thanks to everyone at home for your continued support. We know you’re doing it tough too and I can bet that you didn’t get
lobster, crab, lamb shanks and ice cream on ANZAC Day! We’ve been told that people back home are actually reading this
newsletter and appreciate the stories and photos, so next month we’ll try extra hard to include some interesting and funny quips
and pics. Cheers!
12
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
From the Chaplain:
Greeting to you all once again in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. Another month has gone past us so quickly. A
lot of you are having your loved ones back home on ROCL or holidaying somewhere in Europe right now. Thank you for your
support and prayers. We can’t achieve our mission by ourselves. When you are happy and get on
with the job back there at home, we are happy also over here because we know that we are all
doing this together with you all.
As I reflect on another ANZAC day, especially far away from home, I can easily relate the
COURAGE and SACRIFICE of all those before us to you all. When we talk about courage, we
talk about the quality of being brave. For all the members of the Battle Group, it is the ability to
face danger, difficulty, uncertainty or pain without overcome by fear. For you all the partners,
spouses, mums, dads etc., it is the quality of being brave to face loneliness, tiredness in dealing
with the children, and uncertainty of what tomorrow brings and the difficulties of doing things by
yourself without your loved one. I salute you all for your courage. Your courage enables us to get
on with the job given to us by our country.
When we talk about sacrifice, we talk about giving away so much for the sake of others. This
includes precious time with your loved ones. You gave away a lot because you are not selfish. You
gave so much for the sake of others.
I pray to God that may he continue to bless you all with strength, energy, and good health. Please continue on to pray for all of us
here. Thank you to all of you who sent Birthday cards and Mothers’ Day cards for us to use. Thank you for those who sent letters
of encouragement. Every one here makes use of the cards. For all the mums, I wish you all a happy mother’s day.
Every one is doing well and morale is still high here. You play a big part on this. God bless you all until next time.
Remember: “Behind one able person, there are always other able people.”
Padre Al Lavaki
MTF1 Chaplain.
BALUCHI SURGE
By Capt Al McPherson
Set against the picturesque rugged mountains and lush green valley of the Southern Baluchi, soldiers of the First Mentoring Task
Force and their Afghan National Army (ANA) counterparts swept the laneways, qualas and fields of Sajawul and Khvajeh Ahmad
in surge operations that delivered an increased security presence in the area.
The operation called Jenub Fayda (Southern Advantage) involved around 300 troops in a major combined ANA and MTF1
security operation that was designed to facilitate Afghan government development opportunities in liaison with the local
community. The main focus of development is education, health and works.
Commanding Officer of the First Mentoring task Force,
Lieutenant Colonel Jason Blain said that support from the
community was strong with local elders voicing their thanks
and airing their concerns at a shura in Sajawul during the early
stages of operations.
“One of the local elders said that increased security would help
build local confidence. He also said that every time he sees the
Australian flag flying he knows his people will be well treated.
That was reassuring and a fine indication of the great work our
soldiers have done in an area that was once dominated by
Taliban insurgents,” LTCOL Blain said.
Around 150 extra MTF1 and ANA soldiers bolstered the force already present in Southern Baluchi for around two weeks.
“The operation was a great success. We had support from the community to construct a security post in Khvajeh Ahmad that will
be manned in due course by Afghan National Police. This demonstrates the trust that has been fostered in the community by our
soldiers as well as the Afghan soldiers and Afghan police,” LTCOL Blain said.
13
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
“Initially we established a range of overwatch positions utilising Australian Light Armoured Vehicles (ASLAV). We also cleared
the main route in the area to make the road usable by the local population. That road is known for improvised explosive device
emplacements so our engineers and search teams cleared legacy IEDs off the route,” he said.
LTCOL Blain said that Operation Jenub Fayda was a
partnered MTF1 and ANA operation that was planned,
rehearsed and conducted together. He said that the
development of the ANA is going very well and added that the
partnered approach is developing ANA skills allowing them to
eventually take over the planning and conduct of these types of
operations by themselves.
“We are well down the road to being in a position where one
day we can comfortably and confidently pass over security
operations to Afghan National Security Forces in Uruzgan
Province. There is still work to be done in regard to logistics in
particular. We have been making great inroads over the last
few months in getting the competency and confidence of the
ANA at a level where they feel comfortable themselves in
taking over operations,” LTCOL Blain said.
A range of combined MTF1 and ANA surge operations will be conducted over the coming months in the Baluchi and Mirabad
valleys as well as the Chora area. “This operation is one of many. We will continue operations like this throughout the MTF1 tour,
“ LTCOL Blain said. LTCOL Blain said MTF1 will deliver a suite of effects including security, development and governance by
working closely with AusAid, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Afghan government and Coalition partners.
Approved LTCOL J Blain CO MTF1 30 Apr 10
14
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
FOR SALE
Rubber wrist bands
Support the boys in Afghanistan
All proceeds go to the MTF-1 Welfare fund for the Soldiers & Families of the wounded.
$ 5.00 ea, we will post anywhere, contact: graham.palmer1@defence.gov.au
Our Sponsors
6 RAR Association
Membership of the association is open to all who have served in or with 6 RAR at any time and we welcome new members.
Click the image on the left border to print an application form or e-mail Arthur Willemse to join the Association.
Subscribe to 'Stand To', our quarterly newsletter- stay informed about reunions, read your mates letters, in '6 Battalion
Lines'- send your own story or photograph. 'Stand To' needs you. It's your call - subscribe now, (only $25.00 to June 2010)
or tell us why you are not subscribing
.
15
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
It's about YOU!
Young Diggers provides services like compensation, welfare and family advice for all serving and ex-serving personnel and your
families.
Whether you, or a family member, have served in the Army, Navy or Air Force on operational deployment or during
peace time, we are here for you.
Our main objective is to enhance and maintain your quality of life.
We provide all veterans with:
• a confidential service
• a non-military organisation who understands
• a non-government organisation you can trust
• easy to talk to ex-military volunteers who have been there
• a voice, in a safe environment, where you can share your feelings and experiences with others
All our information and services are free. We can assist you with accessing counselling services, tools and information on
overcoming the difficulties of serving in the Defence Force, including military to civilian transition, sexual harassment and
disorders like PTSD, plus much more.
Your contacts are: WWW.youngdiggers.com
•
•
•
•
John -mobile: 0408 196218 - President & Welfare Officer
Peter - mobile: 0416 108450 – Senior Welfare Officer
Kevin - mobile: 0433 791452 - DVA Claims Advisor
Sherrie - mobile: 0418 631702 - Secretary & Welfare Officer
FAMILY DAY 18th APR 2010
16
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
17
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
OPERATION HOMEFRONT ~ Absence from Home Support Activities
Operation Homefront recognises the strengths that exist in Defence families and is
DCO Brisbane’s commitment to the Defence community to encourage and facilitate
self- reliance and community capacity for support. DCO-B offers the following
activities, in conjunction with units, to welcome and support Defence families in
Brisbane and surrounding areas.
MARCH
th
Tues 16 – 10 am– 12 pm
th
Wed 17 - 7 pm – 9 pm
Absence From Home Support Activities – Gallipoli Family Centre
(Old Officers’ Mess)
•
•
•
Photography – By Julie de Paola from ‘Photography by Julie’ ~
plus Free Photo shoot valued at $387 for all attendees.
Yoga – Relax and enjoy more balance in your life!
For the Kiddies
Bazil & Grumble – ‘Puppets Galore & Craft Shops.
APRIL
th
Sun 18 – 10 am – 2 pm
th
Tues 20 – 10 am – 12 pm
st
Wed 21 - 7 pm- 9 pm
Defence Kids Activities!
Kids Sports - Come for a fun filled morning full of games and
interactive activities followed by a BBQ lunch!
Venue: Sunday – Gallipoli Barracks
Tuesday - TBA
MAY
Self-Care Indulgence!
Gallipoli Family Centre (Old Officers’ Mess)
th –
Tues 18 10 am – 12 pm
th
Wed 19 – 7 pm – 9 pm
‘Kids in the Park’ Brisbane City Council fun activities for all
ages!
•
Self Indulgence Spectacular – Spoil yourself with an
evening of meditation and relaxation therapies!
Resilience ~ Our Greatest Glory!
Gallipoli Family Centre (Old Officers’ Mess)
JUNE
th
Tues 15 – 10 am – 12 pm
th
Wed 16 - 7 pm – 9 pm
•
•
•
Guest Speaker – Rebecca Rutherford ~ Envisage Coaching
Australia – “Building Resilience - Just another brick in the
Wall”! - Plus 3 Free coaching sessions valued at $427 for all
attendees.
Kids Entertainment – Live Performances for all ages!
Please contact DCO-B on 3354 0500
for further details about these events
and upcoming activities!
18
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
NOTICE BOARD
Upcoming Events.
Battalion Birthday at the Memorial Walk Gallipoli Barracks on Sunday the 6th June
2010. Cost will be $10.00 p.p. for serving 6 RAR & MFT-1 members and their families.
RSVP to Capt Graham Palmer 07 33326935 or email
graham.palmer1@defence.gov.au.
The Gallipoli Barracks Family Centre is open as a drop-in everyday. May to be
used for family social events, just book and get approval through the 6 RAR Welfare
Officer on 0438464164.
There have been a couple of break- ins of late and I would like to arrange a night
were we can have a Police officer give advise on home security and what not to
do around the house. Please email me at graham.palmer1@defence.gov.au if you
would like to attend such an evening.
Family Day 23rd May , see attached flyer
Please understand this newsletter is for all of the MTF-1, as the majority of families are centred around Brisbane, the
newsletter advertises activities in Brisbane. If you require assistance in your local area or require closer support contact
your local DCO office, however I will assist all families regardless of where you are, if at all possible.
Organisations giving support to Members Deployed and Families at home
6 RAR Association, Gaythorne RSL, Greenbank RSL, Sunnybank RSL, Kedron- Wavell
RSL, Young Diggers Association, Defence Community Organisation and Kids in
Cams
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
DCO Brisbane’s National Families Week Event:
Sunday, 16th May 2010, 12 noon ‘til 4pm
Petrie Park, Strathpine
Jazz In the Park Free Community event!
19
Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
Helpful Contact Details
http://www.defence.gov.au/dpe/
http://www.defcom.com.au/
http://www.defcredit.com.au/
http://www.adcu.com.au/
http://www.defence.gov.au/dpe/dpsa/amfrtf.htm
http://www.defence.gov.au/equity/
http://www.arffa.org.au/
http://www.army.gov.au/
http://www.dva.gov.au/
http://www.defence.gov.au/dco/
http://www.dha.gov.au/
http://www.comsuper.gov.au/
http://www.defence.gov.au/dpe/pac/
http://www.defence.gov.au/army/Fairgo.htm
http://www.defence.gov.au/
http://www.armyholidays.com.au/
Commanding Officer 6 RAR
Lieutenant Colonel Mark Jennings
Regimental Sergeant Major 6 RAR
Warrant Officer Class One Brett Brown
Unit Welfare Officer 6 RAR
Capt Graham Palmer
07 3332 6935
0438 464164
Graham.palmer1@defence.gov.au
National Welfare Co-ordination Centre
Freecall 24 hour Hotline 1800 801026
nwcc.australia@defence.gov.au
Defence Community Organisation Brisbane
71 Osborne Road
Mitchelton 4053
(Behind the Old Dick Smith Electronics)
07 3354 0500
1800 801026 (After Hours – through NWCC – 24 hours)
Defence Housing Authority Brisbane
07 3355 8844
1800 249711(24 hours)
20
The Blue Dog Bugle, May 2010
MTF-1 FAMILY DAY
SUNDAY 23 rd May 2010 @ 10 am
Sport and Fun activities for kids of all ages starting at 10 am finishing at 2pm
Michael Hancock and members of the Bronco’ Colts will be in attendance for One hour
from 11am. (Kick a ball around with the Boys)
Bazil and Grumble Show and then plasticine modeling for pre-school and school age children.
Face painting
Sausage sizzle Lunch,
Bushmasters for all to have a ride
Sunday Activities brought to you by:
Greenbank RSL,
Young Diggers Association and DCO
Brisbane
Contact Graham Palmer 0n 0438464164 for more details.
21