Here - British Army

Transcription

Here - British Army

May 2011
THE GUNNER • MAY • 2011
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Here is the Larkhill-based team that
brings you The Gunner every month,
The RA Journal twice a year and The
Blue List annually.
OPSEC
The Regimental Secretary Col
(Retd) NG Quarrelle oversees all
publications
Editor
Maj (Retd) Mike Shaw
can be reached on:
(Civ) 01980 84 5652
(mil) 94322 5652
Deputy Editor
Miss Kate Knowles
can be reached on:
(Civ) 01980 84 5241
(Mil) 94322 5241
Blue List
Miss Lucy Neate
can be reached on:
(Civ) 01980 63 4204
(Mil) 94322 2204
Gunner Publications
HQ DRA, Royal Artillery Barracks,
Larkhill, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 8QT
Fax: 01980 84 5210
Email: gunner@hqdra.army.mod.uk
www.army.mod.uk/artillery
Cover
Please note: Emails over 5MB will
NOT get through to us. Please send
photos as original jpegs, NOT in
Word documents. Many thanks!
Mr Jack Hargreaves, retired Gunner
WO and now Head Coachman at the
Royal Mews, gets ready to collect
HM The Queen from Westminster
Abbey after the wedding service of
her grandson, HRH Prince William,
to Miss Catherine Middleton.
Photo by Sgt Ian Vernon
The views expressed in this publication do
not necessarily reflect official opinion in any
way. All articles and photographs published
in The Gunner become copyright of Gunner
Publications and must not be reproduced
without permission from the editor.
ALL articles and photographs relating to
continuing operations MUST be cleared through
your chain of command, and be signed off by your
commanding officer, at a minimum. If you are in
any doubt please phone The Gunner: 94322 2204.
the gunners
todayall welcome
Grand opening
£320,000
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£150,000
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£50,000
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£40,000
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The total money raised so far
for the Gunners Today project
is £160,800 – just over half
our target! If you would like to
contribute, please go to:
http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/
team/GunnersToday
G
unners Today is a three-phase exhibition
that will mark the considerable and ongoing
contribution provided by the Royal Regiment of
Artillery to operations since 1982. The central
themes to each element of the exhibition are:
• An overview of the campaign (the where,
why and how).
• The development of artillery (what and
how equipment, technology, procedures
and capabilities were used during each of
the campaigns).
• The Modern Gunner (the human aspects
of what it was like to be a Gunner before,
during and after these deployments, told
in their own words).
The first phase, will be open for viewing on
Thursday, 16 June and focuses on operations
in both Iraq and Afghanistan. There will be a
short equipment demonstration followed by a
musical display starting at 2pm. In addition
to a Light Gun detachment from 7 Para RHA,
there will be elements of The King’s Troop RHA,
the RA Band and the Pipes and Drums of 19
Regt RA and 40 Regt RA.
For more information please contact
Firepower on 020 8855 7755
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Editorial
May 2011
Registered Charity Number 244656
H
Jack Hargreaves and Mark Sargeant (ex King’s Troop RHA RQMS
who also works at Buckingham Palace) at the wedding of HRH
Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton
(4)
Regimental news
In action
(6) 74 Bty (The Battle Axe Company) of 39 Regt RA
back home in barracks.
Up Front
(8) A look at the Land Environment Air Picture
Provision capability (LEAPP). (10) Fireshadow, loitering
with intent. (12) Ex SPHINX FOUNDATION, 4/73
(Sphinx) Bty, 5 Regt RA, get back to basics. (13) The
YOs brush up on their map reading skills. (14) Gunner
Sunday at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. (15) Gunners
celebrate the Royal Wedding. (16) 42 (Alem Hamza)
Bty, 32 Regt RA retires into suspended animation.
(17) 101 Regt RA (V) say some fond farewells.
(17) B Bty, 1 RHA proudly displays its glorious history.
(18) A look and a listen at the RA Band.
(20) Ubique. (22) Postings and promotions.
(24) Regimental Family round up.
(25) Letters. (26) In memoriam.
Sport
(28) A slalom of skiing. (20) A sailing summary.
32) A Gunner rugby round up.
(36) Notices. (38) Competitions.
(39) A Neate ending.
ow people cope with fear, fatigue and stress in battle has always
fascinated me. As a Cold War warrior who was never really
called on to go head-to-head with an enemy, and therefore never
having had my own courage truly tested under fire, I have nothing but
the utmost respect for British soldiers, and by extension our Gunners,
who are regularly being so tested in Afghanistan; not once but many
times. It is a simple statement of fact to say that my admiration for
them knows no bounds.
It is not that I am entirely without operational experience. As my
regiment’s young operations officer in the early months of 1973, I was
called on to help train the soldiers of 36 Hy AD Regt RA for a tour of
duty in Belfast – a process that included preparing myself mentally
for the challenge ahead. Like most people I didn’t discuss my anxiety
about how I might react to coming under fire – but it was certainly a
worry lurking at the back of my mind. Then, the weekend before we
deployed, a ‘Grand Charity Folk Concert’ (I quote from a poster still in
my possession) was staged in the regimental gymnasium, attended by
at least 600 members of the regiment and their wives and girlfriends.
The stars of the show were two talented singer-songwriters called
Harvey Andrews and Graham Cooper. I had never heard of them and
attended the concert rather reluctantly at the insistence of my wife.
I’m glad she made me go because the evening became one of those
seminal moments around which lives and careers change – and it
taught me a sharp lesson about the attitude of the British soldier. More
on that in a moment.
In its way last month’s royal wedding must have been just as testing
for its organisers and the members of the armed forces who took part.
By any standards, it was a well organised and colourful occasion, the
sort of thing our country can still stage with considerable style and
panache.
Meanwhile, the wedding slightly overshadowed two other events
worthy of mention. First, the 60th anniversary of the Battle of the
Imjin River was celebrated on Easter Sunday and second, Anzac Day
was celebrated in the UK on Easter Monday. In Korea in April 1951,
less than 900 British soldiers, supported by 45 Regt RA, 11 (Sphinx)
Bty RA and 170 Ind Mor Bty RA, showed almost superhuman courage
and tenacity to hold off nearly 30,000 Chinese troops for three days,
a turning point in a major war, while in April 1915, soldiers of the
Australian and New Zealand Army Corps showed equal bravery as
they went ashore at Gallipoli, meeting fierce resistance and withering
machine gun fire from the Turkish Army as they did so. A reminder,
if one were needed, that the concept of British and Commonwealth
soldiers showing courage and resilience of the highest order when
under fire is nothing new.
Which brings me neatly back to my opening remarks. The highlight
of the folk concert was a song called The British Soldier. Written by
Harvey Andrews the year before, and sung to a silent, packed house,
it tells the story of a young soldier who sacrifices his life by throwing
himself on a bomb, being blown to smithereens, but saving the lives
of several Irish Catholic children. “Blimey,” I thought, as the song
reached its conclusion. “That won’t go down very well with this lot,
or their wives. Don’t they know we’re off to Belfast next week and
that some of us won’t be coming back?” As the closing lines “…who
used his youthful body as a means towards an end, who gave his life
to those who called him murderer not friend…” rang out there was a
moment of utter silence. Then pandemonium broke out as everybody
stood and clapped and cheered and stamped their feet in applause.
Two encores were demanded, and delivered in what can only be
described as an electric atmosphere. It was as clear a demonstration
of the makeup of the British soldier as you could possible witness; no
apprehension, no fear, no dread – just a desire to get there, get stuck
in and get home again. May it ever be thus.
RACF
4
regimental news
The Welfare Secretary of the Royal Artillery
Charitable Fund is pleased to receive calls
for assistance from the serving and retired
regiment at any time. If you need assistance
or you know of someone who does, please
telephone him on (01980) 63 4309 or
(Mil) 94322 2309.
Disbursements
In March the RACF disbursed the sum of
£64,254 (one per cent more than the same
period last year) on 152 individual cases (two
per cent more). From all sources the sum
of £171,576 was disbursed on those cases,
making an average grant of £1,129 for the
month.
From a 52-year-old retired
Gunner
I would like to thank you from the bottom of
my heart for your help during a difficult time
with illness in my family.
Words cannot express how I feel except to
say that you have reduced our stress greatly
with your very kind donation.
I will never forget what the RACF and
SSAFA have done for my family and me.
From an 83-year-old
widow of a World War Two
Gunner
I write on my mum’s behalf to thank the RACF
for their very generous donation towards her
new boiler and shower. It has made a big
difference to her and taken a huge worry of
off her shoulders.
She is very appreciative of your kind help
and assurance, as am I.
Thank you very much indeed.
From a 67-year-old retired
Gunner
I would like to thank you very much for your
contribution towards an electric wheelchair. It
has made a great difference to me, giving me
freedom and independence.
With many thanks
RHQ RA, Artillery
House, Artillery
Centre, Royal
Artillery Barracks,
Larkhill, Salisbury,
Wiltshire SP4 8QT
Duncan Essay
T
he Duncan Essay is an annual essay writing competition which is open to all serving
members of the Royal Artillery (regular and TA) and is sponsored by the Royal Artillery
Institution. The competition is open to all ranks. Warrant officers who are due to attend the
Late Entry Commissioning Board are strongly encouraged to submit an entry. Essays must be
the original work of a single author. Submissions are to be sent to SO2 Regt Pol, HQ DRA by
30 September 2011.
Essay composition
Essays are to be between 2,000 and 3,500 words in length and must be unclassified. The
submission should be anonymous, using a nom de plume or motto that will be recorded
by the RAI secretariat against details provided on a covering letter which must include the
rank, name, address and other contact details. The essays may be illustrated with pictures,
diagrams, charts, graphs but their source should be stated for copyright purposes. Essays are
to be submitted in hard copy on A4, single sided using Microsoft Word (or another Word
compatible application) using Arial 11 font with 1.5 spacing. They are to be submitted in paper
form and on a CD. Essays that have been submitted to military journals (eg The British Army
Review, The RUSI Journal or The Journal of the Royal Artillery) can be included; however, all
essays will become the copyright of the RAI and may be reproduced in journals and magazines
belonging to or associated with the RAI (at the discretion of the Regimental Secretary).
Judging panel and prizes
The judging panel comprises the DRA, COS HQ DRA, AD Cap, Comdt RSA, AD Pers/
Regt Col and somebody external to the HQ. Prizes will only be awarded to those personnel
whose submission is of sufficient quality – where essays are not up to the required standard, no
award shall be made. A gold and silver medal are available and cash prizes of up to a total of
£3,000 may be given annually. Successful entries will attract a formal notification to the chain
of command that could be reflected in overall performance assessments (OJAR or SJAR).
In the future, an overall performance A-grade will require evidence of mental agility, rigour
of thought and self development – the essay is one mechanism of providing that evidence.
The results will also be promulgated in RAI publications and the medals and prizes will be
presented at the DRA’s Conference. The decision of the panel is final.
Essay titles
1.
It is predicted that in the future our forces will have to fight in areas and situations that
are: congested; cluttered; contested; connected; and constrained (note one). What are the
implications for the Royal Artillery (note two)?
Note 1: Future Character of Conflict – Crown Copyright Pam 02/10c5, available at www.
mod.uk
Note 2: Essays may look at the implications for the regiment as a whole, or particular
roles.
2.
With pressure on ammunition budgets and significant developments in simulation, where
should the Royal Artillery’s ‘live versus simulation’ balance lie?
3.
Op ENTIRETY has bent the RA out of shape to meet the growth in demand for joint fires
integration, precision fires, targeting, battlespace management and ISTAR capabilities.
Is this an enduring requirement beyond 2015 and how should the RA re-organise beyond
operations in Afghanistan?
4.
Given the ongoing work on people as a strategic edge as well as work on the Ex AGILE
WARRIOR and FCOC, what should the RA approach be to the types of soldiers and
officers we would wish to recruit into the Gunners?
5.
Is there a need for the RA TA to reorganise and adapt to maximise its utility beyond
2015?
6.
Are home ownership and second incomes, providing greater stability, more important
than accompanied service for the next generation of officers and soldiers?
7.
Networked information systems have the potential to revolutionise individual and
collective training for officers and other ranks; an opportunity being exploited by the
RA embracing distributed training capabilities such as VBS2. How might the RA exploit
similar capabilities to revolutionise its ability to educate its officers and soldiers?
regimental news
T
he annual RA ERE Convention will take place in Larkill
on Friday, 8 July. The aim of the convention is to update
Gunner officers on regimental matters, in a broad sense. The
principal target audience is the SO1/SO2, and in particular those
on the E2 staff who might be somewhat divorced from Gunner
issues. However, any serving Gunner officer or warrant officer
is welcome to attend.
Attendance in 2010 was low, and barely justified the staff
effort (including presentations from senior staff from HQ
DRA and elsewhere) required to stage the event. In the event
that there is insufficient interest, the 2011 convention will be
cancelled. Any decision to cancel the event will be promulgated
in late-May.
Anyone wishing to attend the convention should contact
the HQ DRA Registry (ArtyCen-DRAHQ-Mailbox).
Regimental events
May
4
5
5
7
8
9
11
12
12
13
17-19
Seringapatam Day – 34 Bty, 14 Regt RA and 38 Bty, 40 Regt RA
Drivers Day, I Bty, 7 Para RHA
RA Industry Dinner, Armoury House, HAC
RA Vets RFC v 7 Para RHA Vets RFC, Kneller Hall
Shah Shuja’s Day – T Bty 12 Regt RA
REME FC v RA FC (Quads), Blandford
R Sigs FC v RA FC (Quads), Blandford
Subalterns’ Dining In Night, RA Mess, Larkhill
Inter-Corps Football Tournament (Women), Aldershot
RA FC v RE FC (Quads), Blandford
Hockey Outdoor Inter Corps Championship: Men, Ladies and
Masters, Aldershot
18
Rugby League - REME v RA Aldershot
21-22 RA Assembly, Blackpool
25
Hail and Farewell Dinner, RA Mess, Larkhill
26
Board of Management
26
Gibraltar Day – 9 Bty, 26 Regt RA; 21 Bty, 47 Regt RA;
23 Cdo Bty, 29 Cdo Regt RA
27
Hondeghem Day – K Bty, 5 Regt RA
27
Pontavert Day – 5 Bty, 19 Regt RA
June
2
Royal Salute – Anniversary of the Coronation of HM The Queen,
Hyde Park
6-10 Gunner Cup Football Tournament, Larkhill
9
Colonel Commandants’ Briefing and Dinner, RA Mess Larkhill
10
Alexandria Day –11 Bty, 16 Regt RA and 4/73 Bty, 5 Regt RA
10
RAML Board Meeting and AGM, Newcome Hall, Conf Rm 1
10
Royal Salute – Birthday of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh,
Hyde Park
13
Royal Salute – Official Birthday of HM The Queen, Hyde Park
17
Battery Formation Day (1748) – 7 (Sphinx) Bty, 29 Cdo Regt RA
18
Waterloo Day - H and G Btys, 7 Para RHA; D Bty, 3 RHA; 16 Bty,
26 Regt RA and 30 Bty, 16 Regt RA
22
Master Gunner’s Committee – 120th Meeting, Newcome Hall
23
Plassey Day – 9 Bty, 12 Regt RA
30
Lucknow Day – 55 Bty, 26 Regt RA
July
2
5
9
21
22
27
28
RA Service of Remembrance, National Memorial Arboretum,
Alrewas
RACF AGM, Newcome Hall
Tomb’s Day – 143 (Tomb’s Troop), 19 Regt RA
Chin-Kiang Day –P Bty, 5 Regt RA and 127 Bty, 19 Regt RA
Salamanca Day – E Bty, 1 RHA
Louisburg Day – 53 Bty, 5 Regt RA
Talavera Day – 46 Bty, 32 Regt RA
August
1
2
12
26
26
Minden Day – 12 Bty,12 Regt RA and 32 Bty, 16 Regt RA
Arrah Day – 58 Bty, 12 Regt RA
Sovereign’s Parade, RMAS
Java Day –137 Bty, 40 Regt RA
Le Cateau Day – 132 Bty, 39 Regt RA
Information supplied to The Gunner is subject to change. Please
check with the individual organisers concerned that the information
is still current, or contact SO2 Pol on 01980 845830
Royal Artillery
ERE
Convention
5
6
in action
The TFH HQ Targeting Cell: The BC and SO2 Tgts Maj Nick Jarman; SO3 J2 Tgts Capt
Owen Punter; Tgts WO, WO2 Paul Manuel and Targeting SNCO Sgt ‘Jock’ Bradley
CO 7 Para RHA, Lt Col Gary Wilkinson, hands BC 74 Bty, Maj Nic
HERRICK 13 plaque
The Battle Axe
in action
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ck Jarman, an Op
e Coy
7
4 Bty (The Battle Axe Company) of 39 Regt RA deployed to Afghanistan for the second
time in as many years in September of last year on Op HERRICK 13. The battery, using the
GMLRS weapon systems, was once again providing Task Force Helmand with precision fires.
Under the operational command of 7 Para RHA, the battery began its training in earnest with
a succession of high intensity exercises; Ex HELMAND GUNNER at Stanford Training Area
and Ex PASHTUN SABRE at Otterburn. While the GMLRS troop was providing fires for the
brigade combined arms live fire exercise at Otterburn, the battery echelon was busy preparing
ISO containers and the targeting cell was exercising with 4 MI Bn in Bulford. Needless to say,
the learning curve was steep but one to which the Battle Axe troops rose admirably. A rapid
succession of brigade MST serials in Warminster preceded a welcome extended summer leave
period prior to deployment in September.
Once in theatre, and following a robust and informative in-theatre training package, the
battery dispersed to its disparate locations. The more junior troops in the battery soon had their
first experience of ‘austere’ living conditions and all of the connotations associated with it! It
did not take long however, for all of the crews to receive their first fire missions and thus earn
the regiment’s nickname of the ‘Long Range Snipers’.
Precision
The increased utility of precision fires means for the first time that those responsible for
issuing the command ‘fire’ were able to see both the launch of the rocket and its impact in
real-time at the target location. This cross-cuing of assets enabled many successful targeting
engagements against IED laying teams, particularly in the IED ‘hot zone’ in Gereshk. Support
to operations Op OQAB PELELIU and Op OMID SHESH tested the adaptability of all of the
detachments and their response to calls for fire was both timely and accurate.
While preparing for a road move to improve GMLRS coverage, Martinique Troop was
involved in a particularly heavy contact which saw them expending thousands of rounds from
their defensive positions. As a reward for their tenacity the troop received copious amounts of
Danish hospitality.
Christmas in Helmand signified the half-way point of the tour and most locations were
visited by the CSE show and the band of the Parachute Regt. MOB Bastion was visited by
Soccer AM and, unfortunately for the battery quartermaster’s (future) wife, the BQMS was
broadcast live to the UK, performing what can only be described as a rendition of a Happy
Monday’s music video. The battery celebrated its 202nd anniversary in style on 24 February,
with the BSM kindly organising for refreshments to be sent out to the troops, where the battery
citation was read by the youngest members of each troop in each location.
Following a successful tour and a short stay in Cyprus, the battery recovered to Albemarle
Barracks at the beginning of April. The battery now looks forward to adventure training
expeditions to the south of France, sailing and hill walking in Scotland, while those who
remain with the battery for its next deployment will keep a watchful eye on the calendar for
Op HERRICK 17 in 2013…
by Capt Owen Punter
Below right: ONSLAUGHT 81
caught in the downdraft of a
MERLIN
8
up front
A LEAPP into th
E
volution has taught us that nature will adapt and that hunters will
take to the skies in order to get the advantage against the prey; the
prey in an effort to defend against this threat will employ techniques
to defend against this, be it meerkats sheltering in television studios
selling car insurance or rabbits burrowing into their warrens; all have
adapted to the threat from the skies.
The Royal Artillery as the provider of air defence for the land
component has provided this force protection since November 1914.
Some 98 years later, 2012 will be a turning point for the Royal
Artillery; it will take delivery of the Land Environment Air Picture
Provision (LEAPP).
16 Regt RA will take ownership of the LEAPP capability with a
view to supporting battle space management by providing additional
situational awareness in formation headquarters and enabling air
defence systems.
The technical field trials of the LEAPP system will be carried out
towards the end of this year with the operational field trials in 2012
prior to deployment on Op HERRICK. 16 Regt RA and JAPPLE
personnel will provide the majority of the operators for the system.
LEAPP will provide the land component with the eyes to look
into the air at range, combined with a feed from the air component;
a capability that will provide situational awareness to commanders at
all levels in order to command and control their battle space. LEAPP
draws together information from a variety of sources to provide troops
on the ground with a precise and timely picture of what is going on in
the air. By sharing this information quickly, securely and accurately
LEAPP will provide the awareness required to fight on the modern
battlefield
This is not creating a brand-new capability, what it is doing is
pulling existing capabilities together and fusing them rapidly into a
single common picture which is easy to understand in near real-time.
LEAPP will have five of its own sensors: Saab’s Giraffe AMB (GAMB) truck-mounted surveillance radars, and through Link 16 will
also be able to receive data from other assets such as the Mk 7 Sea
King ASACS and E3 Sentry air surveillance platform. The system
will then assemble a nearly instantaneous picture of what is going on
in the air thus aiding operations.
Saab’s Giraffe is a truck-mounted, 3-D agile
multiple beam surveillance radar
that is housed in a single
container
with
environmental and CBRN
protection, mounted on
a cross-country capable
platform. Its animal name
comes from the fact that the
radar sits on an extendable
mast in order to deliver
a broader surveillance
coverage. The system takes
about 10 minutes to set
up and activate and three
minutes or less to takedown in order to evade
enemy aircraft moving
into anti-radiation missile
range.
The control node
Unlike
conventional
search radars that rely on
elevation scanning technology, the G-AMB covers a large elevation
range simultaneously by using one wide beam for transmission and
multiple, digitally-shaped narrow beams for reception.
The radar also has uses beyond air surveillance, including the
ability to track ballistic weapons such as rockets, mortars and artillery
shells, and figure out both their point of impact and their point of
origin for exploitation. Some of you will recognise this equipment as
that previously used in Op TELIC to enable the C-RAM capability of
the Phalanx gun.
The information provided by the LEAPP system will be spread
across the battlefield and interface with headquarters by four truck
mounted Lockheed Martin-built control nodes and three air picture
pallets mounted on air picture trailers. The air picture trailers provide
the same capability as the control nodes without the use of an
environmental shelter and embedded Bowman systems with a view to
enhanced agility to provide a fly-forward capability.
Digitization and smaller electronics affect the battlefield in a
number of ways. In the area of air defence, it has become possible
to make small radars quite powerful, while also connecting them
in networks that can provide a combined picture of a broader area.
The result is a system that makes short-range assets like shoulderlaunched anti-aircraft missiles far more effective, these systems
in action
9
he future
can serve singularly as quickly deployable initial protection for key
sites, be combined to extend coverage over a local region, or serve as
a form of local distributed backup to guide larger and more advanced
missiles if higher echelon radars are knocked out.
Minimise
Their usefulness even extends beyond enemy forces. One of the
toughest problems involved in coalition warfare is ensuring that
simple misunderstandings or lack of a common picture doesn’t lead
to ‘friendly fire’ tragedies. A deployable local air situational system
can minimise those odds.
The pictures used to illustrate this article were taken at the LEAPP
demonstration event held in conjunction with the LEAPP Capability
Integration Working Group (CIWG) by Lockheed Martin UK at their
Ampthill facility last month.
G-AMB
by WO2 Matt Thompson
10
Fire Sh
U
nlike most of the equipment based articles that appear in The
Gunner, this article is on a capability that is not yet in service,
and at the time of going to press still remains in development. The aim
of this article is therefore to describe both the new capability that it is
planned to deliver, and the very unusual process by which it is being
created by a combined industry and defence team – a process which
may become a model for future equipment acquisition.
The Fire Shadow weapon is a land-based
precision attack system, also known as a
loitering munition. The key characteristics
of the system are its persistence (available
to be launched rapidly in all conditions); its
endurance after launch to remain in the target
area, or be diverted to a new target; and the
low collateral damage that arises from its
accuracy. Fire Shadow is part of the Indirect
Fire Precision Attack (IFPA) project, which is
already revolutionising the manner in which
artillery fire is delivered on the battlefield. A
guided version of the MLRS rocket was the
first element of IFPA, and has been in use on
operations since 2007. Guided MLRS flies
very accurately to a point pre-determined at
the time of launch. Fire Shadow is the second
element of IFPA, and is designed to attack
mobile and re-locatable targets, or targets
where it is not possible to produce the very
accurate coordinates and altitude on which
Guided MLRS depends. Fire Shadow is also
being run as a spiral development project.
The early operating capability version is
being delivered at an accelerated pace in
order to meet the needs of Afghanistan,
but the intention is to refresh regularly the
design of the system and allow it to evolve
to match user experience and the
rapidly changing character of future
warfare.
The Fire Shadow EOC system consists
of a command post, which plans and controls
an engagement in response to a call for fire
from an observer, and a launch detachment
that prepares the Integrated Munition
Launcher (IML) for firing from a site that can
be co-located or remote from the command
post. The key system characteristic is the
presence of a ‘man in the loop’ (MITL) in the
command post, looking at real time imagery
transmitted by the weapon’s seeker head, that
promises great flexibility within current rules
of engagement and targeting policy. Critically
it can provide the observer with decision
making support, and the opportunity to wait
for better conditions before continuing an
engagement.
Innovative and flexible
The system characteristics are a result
of the innovative and flexible acquisition
methodology adopted by the project team,
using a cardinal point specification rather
than the more common User Requirements
Document to drive the development of the
capability. This allows the project to respond
to changing operational requirements and
make use of new technology as it matures.
This dynamic approach also reflects the role
of experimentation in the system delivery
with an implementation team from 39
Regt RA and RATDU providing technical
and tactical experience throughout the
development work.
Both the speed of development and the
hadow
11
Man in the loop
Rocket boosted launch
Day-night operations
Two-way data link communications
Loitering capability
Missile
characteristics:
Weight: less than 200 kg
Length: less than 4 m
Cruising speed: ~150-300 kph
Operating altitude: up to ~15,000ft (dependent on scenario)
novel approach causes a degree of wariness training will begin this September, delivered started in order to train fire support teams and
and discomfort within Defence. A munition by a combined team of industry and military joint fire cells. All of this is taking place in
with autonomous control, long endurance and personnel. The course will include training parallel with the firing trials that culminate in
multiple seekers will be relatively expensive for commanders on how to fight the system; a user firing involving those that will deploy
and affordability affects trialling
identified from with it to Afghanistan.
autonomous control, athe lesson
and training methods. This can
integration of other
Fire Shadow and loitering munitions are
be mitigated by improving the long endurance and
capabilities. Work on the a new military capability and many of the
use of simulation for training
integration of the system approaches that are delivering these are new.
multiple seekers
but this is not how capability
into collective training While the early operating capability will offer
is usually developed and cultural change is including MOUNTAIN DRAGON has begun increased targeting flexibility and utility, it
required to enable it. Targets will also need to and importantly the development of a model is only a waypoint on the delivery of a full
be sufficiently important to justify a munition within the VBS2 synthetic environment has capability for the future Army.
since they cannot be returned once fired,
however the objective cost for Fire Shadow
is in the same order as a GMLRS munition,
and if this can be delivered this should not
be a significant issue. If the system is to be
deployed to maximum effect on operations it
needs a share of already congested airspace
and a slice of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Experimentation has validated the concepts
and draft procedures to deliver this but it
will still require organisational flexibility
from the myriad of stakeholders concerned.
The most significant issue is that the Fire
Shadow capability is completely novel
and confidence in the system has yet to be
proved; the deployment of Fire Shadow
on Operation HERRICK as an operational
capability demonstration (OCD) provides an
opportunity to build this confidence under the
most testing of conditions.
The preparations for the OCD have already
begun and the Fire Shadow Troop was
formed up in 39 Regt RA in April this year.
The troop have started foundation training in
subjects such as the use of full motion video
by Capability Branch, HQ DRA
and ground to air communications. System
General
Characteristics:
up front
box head
12
Exercise Sphinx Foundation
R
eturning to work after a long period of
post-operational tour leave, I was (almost!)
enthusiastic to learn that along with other
members 4/73 (Sphinx) Special OP Bty, 5 Regt
RA, I was going on exercise. Even more so when
I learned that for the first time my role was
that of a patrol commander, a far cry from my
recent deployment in Afghanistan as a tactical
air controller in a fire support team. The exercise
would focus on 4/73 Bty’s core role of surveillance
and target acquisition, from the OP environment.
Three patrols were to deploy to find and observe
an enemy location, with the exercise grand finale
rumoured to be either an ambush, or a deliberate
attack. In addition to the STA patrols, a six-man
patrol from the Theatre Surveillance Troop, in the
later stages of mission specific training, deployed
to conduct their own continuation training, while
LATEO Troop also deployed to Aldershot in troop
strength, with three patrol soldiers from 4/73 Bty
acting as instructors.
The week prior to the exercise focused on
low-level training with refreshers on close target
recce, river crossing and troop RV drills, OP site
selection, and ambushes. At this early stage
it became clear just how much ‘skill fade’ had
occurred in recent years as a result of the battery’s
ongoing operational commitments, predominantly
in the fire support team role. Getting back to the
basics and building on from there
proved to be the best approach to
the problem.
Three patrols were dropped
off at a water tower on
the southern edge of
Aldershot training area.
Two patrols were
tasked to conduct
an infiltration
on foot towards the target area, construct OPs
and begin reporting. The third patrol (and in some
respects the one that drew the short straw) was
dropped off at the same location and infiltrated
further to the north-east until they reached a predesignated RV, from which they would establish
a Bergen cache. Protected by two members of
the patrol, the remaining four members began an
area search across ground that comprised both
open moorland and blocks of woodland. Their
mission was to identify the operations cell for
our enemy, known as the Force Against Western
Interference, a notional Islamic extremist group
operating and recruiting internally within the UK.
An inter-visibility study taken from a map
left me confident that the best position from
which to establish ‘eyes on’ was from a clump
of gorse bushes. They sat on a short but steep
slope, 300 metres south of the target. The sheer
volume of camouflage needed meant that we
were constructing the OP from 2100 hours on
Monday until 0600 hours the following morning.
Finally complete our efforts were rewarded with
good arcs onto the target, protection from the
weather and an OP large enough even for our
GPMG gunner – a six foot three inch giant. My
patrol remained in the OP, logging all movement
and activity and reporting events in real-time
until Wednesday evening. At that point, we were
re-tasked
to collapse our OP and
conduct a
recce of both a troop RV
and an
ambush site in order to
lead a
troop-level ambush.
After a detailed
ground recce we
arose at first
light to begin
constructing a model and prepare orders for an
orders group. The details of the troop RV were
passed to the command post and from there
the information was disseminated to the other
patrols. At this point we relied on our SOPs to
deconflict friendly and enemy activity.
Time for rest was minimal as the orders group
started just five minutes after the last patrol
arrived at the RV. The scheme of manoeuvre that
emerged from the orders saw a 26-man fighting
patrol moving to occupy positions within a
slightly ‘situationally adapted’ linear ambush. The
execution phase ran like clockwork and the key
enemy leaders were successfully engaged, with
maps and documents obtained for subsequent
exploitation. The only unexpected occurrence
was a follow up of small arms fire onto the rear
elements as we extracted from the ambush area.
We reacted by a simple peel down the track on
which we were patrolling until the firing ceased.
For good measure we put in a deception leg
during our withdrawal route to ensure that we
were not being observed. We left content with
core skills refreshed and eagerly awaiting our
next tasking.
The 4/73 Bty STA Patrols Course is run twice
a year and accepts candidates from across the
Army. If you are interested in joining 4/73 Bty
or would like more information, please contact
the recruiting officer on 94731 5636 or 5943.
Alternatively,
you can look
up
DIN2010DIN07-086
on the
intranet.
by Bdr Garry Hunter
13
Exercise YOUNG MANOUEVRIST
E
xercise YOUNG MANOUEVRIST
is a key technical stepping stone
on the Young Officers’ (YOs’) Course.
The aim of the exercise is to develop
an understanding of a number of RA
capabilities while also providing an
opportunity to look at different troop
command roles prior to making initial
posting decisions. The exercise for
YOs’ Course 193 was divided into a
number of stands with the YOs rotating
between close support, air defence
and MLRS stands. In addition, a
night vehicle navigation exercise was
organised to test their ‘ropey’ map
reading.
The close support package involved
battery
movement and firing. The
A war like 2Lt Amy Poskitt
YOs found themselves acting as
battery recce officer and planning movement and deployment of the
guns. Once in action, they rotated through command post officer
appointments and firing their first live fire missions. On the air
defence stand, students were briefed on the role and tactical tasks of
an air defence troop commander. Training then focused on vehicle
and equipment husbandry, recce and deployment of weapon systems.
Hands-on experience with HVM also gave an insight into the daily
routine of the detachments. The MLRS stand emphasised the need for
the YOs to fully appreciate what the soldiers have to do on the ground,
and much fun was had trying to camouflage the weapon systems (to
varying degrees of success). The YOs then went on to look at the
2Lt Tim O’Neill expressing his passion for MLRS.
issues of crest and its effect on the launcher, before rotating through
CP and launcher seats.
The night vehicle navigation exercise provided a challenging new
experience. The importance of being able to read a map accurately
cannot be under estimated and all of the YOs were up for the challenge.
Navigating while in a vehicle at night proved to be a unique experience
for most but only got the better of a few.
From here the YOs go onto their specialist discipline training
before the G1/G4 phase followed by moving to their first regiments.
by 2Lt Simon Phillips
n
up front
14
up front
Gunner Sunday
O
n Sunday, 3 April
blessed with fine
weather, many of us visited
the Royal Hospital, Chelsea
to spend a day with our
Gunner In-Pensioners.
Gunner Sunday is an
annual event organised
by the hospital officers
and staff and we count
ourselves fortunate and privileged that we are invited to join them in
their splendid surroundings.
This year the Royal Artillery Association was well represented with
10 Standards on parade and many more veterans watching from
the sidelines. RSMs and soldiers from 3 RHA, 19 Regt RA and 39
Regt RA took this opportunity to meet up with their sponsored
In-Pensioners and join them for a pint and a chat following the
chapel service.
If you have never been to the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, it’s
well worth a visit and if you are a Gunner then Gunner Sunday
will provide you with a truly Regimental family day.
19 Regt RA with In-Pensioner Mr Dennis Muir
up front
15
A right royal
celebration
H
aving been swept up
in the Royal Wedding
whirlwind the residents
of Milne Crescent (also
known as Malibu
Crescent) got together
to celebrate the Royal
Wedding with a street
party. Being military
k
c
lo
road b
families we love to
elie bin
e
h
w
e
Th
go all out with the
patriotism and red, white and blue of
our Union flags.
WO2 ‘Baz’ Burns (RE) rallied all residents with a stirring letter and kept
the wedding-fever on track. The Prime Minister was on side with a thumbs
up for street parties, so there was no stopping us; bunting and flags a-plenty,
tables and benches collected, set up and laid by WO2 Kenny McWann, WO2
Stevens and the residents who gathered at 1000 hours. As the crescent
has several family members away on operations, the remaining families
rallied to decorate their houses and share the barbecue and entertainments
to ensure that they enjoyed the day to the full despite the absence of their
loved ones.
Lauren McWhan and Poppy Moffitt made commemorative bookmarks
to sell and Miss Holly Moffitt painted nails – this was done for a small
fee which raised money towards the Salisbury Hospital Stars appeal. The
wheelie bins were dressed up and used to block the end of the crescent
and a prize of a cake was given to the best dressed
bin, judged by popular opinion and hosted by ‘Big
Baz’. The winners of the bin competition were Harriet
and Lauren McWhan and Callum and Kate Priestley
who together made Her Majesty the Queen. Some
of the wives dug out their old wedding dresses and
Caitlyn
and Am
y
performed an impromptu parade, which went down
very well! There was a royal quiz trail, guess the
weight of the jar and other carnival-style games with donated prizes.
(‘Baz’ Burns and his good lady wife worked hard to get some locally donated
prizes for a raffle that included beauty treatment and local restaurant meal
vouchers amongst the varied prizes.)
There were dance classes run by Mrs Sam Dunn which the girls (young
and old) got stuck in to. RA BSM, WO2 Dave Moffitt ran the children’s
games (herding cats) which commenced in the
afternoon with sack, egg and spoon and skipping
races, there was also a pin the tail on the corgi.
Everyone had plenty of food and fizzy pop which
allowed the children to sleep well and the adults
Dave and Kenny – the
to sit in the bunting-clad street until late into the
calm before the storm
night reminiscing and meeting neighbours they had
previously only said good morning to.
On reflection it was a great day and everyone entered into the royal
spirit. Roll on the next wedding or royal excuse for a party!
by WO2 (RABSM) Dave Moffitt
O
n Friday, 29 April, The Garrison Artillery re-enactment group
carried out a 21 round salute on behalf of the people of
Buckinghamshire to honour the wedding of HRH Prince William to
Miss Catherine Middleton. The group used three of its prized World
War Two 25-pdr field guns. It all took place at the famous Boer War
memorial at Coombe Hill Buckinghamshire, overlooking Chequers.
Among the crowds of spectators were veterans of the old Royal
Bucks Yeomanry (who used to be an artillery field gun regiment)
and members of the High Wycombe branch of the RAA. Jonathon
Catton, the chairman of the group said how honoured they had felt
to be asked to carry out the salute.
The royal couple (Morgan and Poppy)
16
up front
42 (Alem Hamza) Bty RA
S
ince returning from Op HERRICK 12 in
November last year, 42 (Alem Hamza)
Bty, 32 Regt RA has filled its final few months
prior to going into suspended animation with
one eye on the past and one fixed firmly on
the future.
The first major event upon its return from
operations was the post tour medals parade.
Preparation for this event started months
before and while still on tour the battery
received confirmation that the ‘greatest living
explorer’ – Sir Ranulph Fiennes – had agreed
to present the medals. The day commenced
with a brief equipment demonstration and
operational briefing by members of the
battery. Sir Ranulph remarked that his own
job as a serving officer would have been
made considerably easier if some of the
technology that we take for granted today
had been available. After presenting the
medals, he delivered a brief synopsis of
his military career saying that some of the
features he remembered of operating in
a COIN environment were still relevant
today. Following the parade he mingled with
members of the battery and their families and
signed numerous copies of his new book.
Shortly after returning from
Christmas leave, 50 members
of the battery deployed on
Ex EAGLE’S OBSERVER,
a battlefield study to Belgium
and Northern France.
The aim of t h e
exercise was to visit the battlefield the battery
had fought on in the First World War and
examine the development of airborne ISTAR
during the two world wars.
The first day of the exercise concentrated
on the Battle of Neuve Chapelle where 5
Mountain Bty RFA fought with distinction
and went ‘over the top’ alongside the infantry,
with the pack howitzer providing in depth
support once the objective was taken. As
various first hand accounts of this action were
read and discussed on the site of the battery
gun position, the scale and complexity of
the operation became apparent and the need
for a detailed intelligence picture readily
recognised.
The next day focused on the development
of airborne observation, with presentations
on both balloon and aircraft observation
parties. It was interesting to note that even
in those early days collecting information
was often easier than disseminating it in
a timely and accurate manner, as portable
radios were still a developing technology and
handwritten messages dropped from the air
were still being used. Some of the UAS pilots
within the battery were no doubt glad not
to
have been born a century earlier
when their job would have involved
hanging
in
a
wicker basket
suspended
below
a
hydrogen
balloon a few
hundred yards
from the front
line. After participating at the ceremony of
remembrance at the Menin Gate, the battery
moved west to Northern France and looked at
the development of the Air OP and the role of
the RA observer in a joint organisation during
the Battle for Normandy.
The aircraft, communications and ALI
doctrine had moved on considerably in
intervening years, but the enduring features
of early integration and clear and well
understood operating procedures were clearly
identified. The battles beyond the beaches
in the irrigated fields of the Bocage drew
some startling parallels with contemporary
operations in Helmand. Communication
difficulties, narrow fields of view, close
quarters fighting and a 360-degree threat
were and are enduring features, proving
that although lessons have been identified
they cannot always easily be solved. Here
again, the importance of an eye in the sky
was identified as a battle winning capability.
In addition to studying the battlefields, the
battery had the opportunity to visit a number
of war graves in both Belgium and France
and pay their respects to fallen members of
the battery and relatives of serving members.
As part of the 1 Arty Bde IUAS
restructuring, 42 (Alem Hamza) Bty RA
was placed into suspended animation on 25
February 2011. This restructuring will deliver
five identical IUAS batteries within 1 Arty
Bde. These batteries will each be equipped
with TUAS and MUAS and be deployed
within the harmony guidelines for the first
time in seven years.
However, progress comes at a cost, and in
this case the cost is the loss of battle honours.
To mark the transition of 42 (Alem Hamza)
Bty RA into suspended animation a final
parade was held on 25 February to mark the
lowering of the battery flag for the last time
in its present incarnation.
up front
I
t is a sad month for the regiment and the Royal Artillery this year
as we say farewell to two members of 101 (Northumbrian) Regt
RA (V).
Capt Alan Parker joined the Army as a Junior Leader in 1967 and
served with 1 RHA for the majority of his career before becoming the
RSM of 32 Hy Regt RA in Dortmund. He was commissioned in 1989.
During his 44-years service he has served in seven Gunner regiments
and HQRA 3 Div, and is currently the regimental operations support
officer in 101 Regt RA (V). Operationally he has served in Northern
Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo and Belize. With the Army he has also visited
all stations in Europe, Cyprus, Greece, Channel Islands, Canada,
America, Mexico and Honduras.
17
Farewell
He is retiring to Darlington, where he lives with his wife Janet,
close to his two sons and their families. His enthusiasm, professional
work ethic and his wealth of knowledge and experience will be sorely
missed.
Maj Stuart Eaton enlisted in 1968 serving in the Regular Army for
28 years. For the last nine he has been the permanent staff administrator
for 204 (Tyneside Scottish) Bty, 101 Regt RA (V). During his career
he has also served in seven Gunner
regiments as an officer, commanded
Q Bty in 5 Regt RA and had postings
to Germany and Australia. In addition
he has deployed to Cyprus, Northern
Ireland and Iraq, and in 2002 was
awarded a Commander in Chief Land
Forces Commendation for meritorious
service.
Maj Eaton retires to the north east
where he currently lives with his wife
Maryln, daughter Michaela, and son
Raymond. Having spent so much time
with 101 Regt RA (V), first as a TM
and then as PSAO, he is well known
by all ranks. His eloquence, style and
panache are what we all remember him
for, but his extraordinary knowledge of
the soldiers in his battery is what he is
revered for.
by Capt Annabel Bonas
B get an A for history
hen 1 RHA moved into a new our
new regimental headquarters in 2009
each of the batteries was encouraged to make
a concerted effort to display their battery
history. For B Bty RHA our focus at that
time was on Operation HERRICK 11 and
our Afghanistan deployment – thus it was
not until our return last year that work on the
battery history room was really driven on.
In recent months the battery has invested
much time in getting to grips with its property
and history. Once photographed and properly
catalogued we were in a position to decide
where the pieces ought to be displayed.
Through a combination of a very generous
RAA grant and money made available from
the battery account we now boast some
fantastic cabinets to display our historical
artefacts in a history room now re-titled
Downman’s Room. This is in memory of
Lt Gen Sir Thomas Downman KCB KCH
(1773–1852) who fought at the battle of
Sahagun and in a remarkable career was
Director General of the Artillery and the
Commandant at Woolwich.
Our thanks go not only to the RAA for the
generous grant, but also to two distinguished
former battery commanders – Brig GL
Body and Col BGG Nicholson. Not only
did they willingly give their time but they
also presented the battery with a number of
historical pieces.
Brig Body presented a couple of fine prints
of Lt Gen Downman and Col Nicholson, a
direct descendant of Downman, donated a
snuff box made from the hoof of the general’s
favourite charger, which was killed during
the battle of Segovia in 1812, along with the
musket ball that killed the horse.
The battery now proudly displays
its historical artefacts, ranging from old
photographs of the1936 battery football team
right through to recent pictures of operations
in Iraq and Afghanistan in a fitting setting.
by Capt Tom Major
W
18
up front
The Royal
Artillery Band
Orchestra
&
A
s the Royal Artillery Band and Orchestra nears its 250th anniversary, LBdr
Russ Danckert takes a look back at the country’s oldest professional
orchestra and their journey through time.
It is the passion for music and in particular for the Royal Artillery Band
and Orchestra that drives many of its musicians to uphold the standards
set out at the conception of the orchestra in 1762. This unique musical
organisation demands that its musicians are competent on both string and
wind instruments. Capt William Phillips instigated the beginning of The
Royal Artillery Orchestra with his desire for musicians who could provide
music both on parade and in the mess.
He stated that the band was ‘to consist of eight men, who must also be
capable to play upon the violoncello, bass, violin and flute, as other common
instruments’.
From these eight men the Royal Artillery Orchestra was to consolidate
its position as one of the oldest and finest musical organisations in the
military. The orchestra began to grow in size. In 1801 the Royal Irish Artillery
Band was amalgamated with the Royal Artillery Band and the number of
personnel increased to 22. It was on an unknown date sometime between
1810 and 1815 that the famed Royal Artillery concerts began. They were to
become a regular feature of London musical life for well over a century with
many of the later concerts held at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall.
It was the dawning of a great musical organisation; an orchestra of
unsurpassed ability, even in those days. It gradually grew in size and in
musical excellence during the following decades. The appointment of Ladislao
Zavertal as the civilian Director of Music in 1881 led the orchestra to its most
celebrated heights for a period of almost 25 years. Under his leadership the
orchestra, now numbering nearly 90, attracted eminent composers, huge
audiences and distinguished guests from across London to winter concerts
in Woolwich. Such was the orchestra’s reputation that on several occasions
Queen Victoria, herself a very competent musician, engaged the orchestra
by Royal command to play during and after state banquets. The orchestra
had many famous admirers; not least amongst these were Sir Edward Elgar
and Sir Edward German. Each had good reason to thank
Zavertal, for he had performed their works
while they were still in
relative obscurity. Zavertal was also good friends with Anton Dvorak, who
visited Woolwich and the orchestra’s rehearsal room a number of times to
try out his pieces and it is highly likely that Dvorak’s famous New World
Symphony was first played by the Royal Artillery Orchestra.
Over the years countless musicians from the Royal Artillery Orchestra,
particularly from around the 1950s, have taken their place in the top echelon
of the music world. Notably guitarist Julian Bream, French horn players
Alan Civil and Denzil Floyd plus composers Harrison Birtwistle and Gordon
Langford. The orchestra has toured with Sir Harry Secombe, Anne Shelton
and Semprini, accompanied world class soloists such as Nigel Kennedy,
Stephen Isserlis, Carlos Bonnell, David Russell, John Ogden and more
recently Hayley Westenra in a showcase concert at Salisbury Cathedral.
The orchestra continues to perform to the public all over the country
in support of the Royal Regiment of Artillery and regularly performs at
investitures and other state events in Buckingham Palace and Windsor
Castle. The Royal Artillery Band is the only band in the Corps of Army Music
able to provide a concert orchestra and full marching band, (not at the same
time). From the humble beginnings of just eight musicians, peaking in the
mid-1970s at 120, the 49 musicians of today carry on the traditions of
what has become a national treasure. They continually strive to maintain the
highest standards in military bearing and musical accomplishment; values
laid down just over 249 years ago.
The Royal Artillery Band
As one of eight London-based state bands, the Royal Artillery Band also
supports all state ceremonial duties including the historic Changing of the
Guard at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, and all royal and state
visit gun salutes with The King’s Troop RHA in Hyde and Green Parks. When
not employed on ceremonial duties, the Royal Artillery Band retains strong
links with the Royal Regiment, performing whenever and wherever for
Gunner regiments across the world.
Voice of the Guns
As well as the orchestra the Royal Artillery Band further boasts not only
one of the oldest and finest Army musical establishments but arguably the
most versatile. Another string to the bow of the musicians that work within
the band is one of Army music’s finest contemporary ensembles.
‘Voice of The Guns’ is the new rock orchestra of the Royal Artillery. The
group is a product of the 2008 Music of the Night festival in Plymouth,
subsequently taking centre stage at the Corps of Army Music flagship
contemporary autumn outdoor music festival Rhythm Force which is
held every autumn at the Royal Military School of Music at Kneller Hall,
Twickenham, London. Voice of The Guns is unique in Army music in
that the string capability of the orchestra is added to the mix creating a
contemporary soul and R and B orchestra, with front-line horns, guitars
and vocals. Voice of the Guns, like all of the Royal Artillery Band’s smaller
ensembles, is employed to provide musical support to the regiment and
up front
Concert band
The concert band, like the orchestra, has a long and proud history
supporting the regiment at home and abroad with a broad repertoire of
music from traditional military band favourites to contemporary symphonic
wind band works. In recent years regular concert highlights have included
the Shrewsbury Flower Show, Birmingham Symphony Hall, Music of the
Night in Plymouth, annual trips to the British Embassy in Algiers and military
tattoos in China, Switzerland and the Netherlands. As an ongoing part of
musicians’ training and development, regular public concerts are staged.
The band does not receive any financial benefits from such concerts. All
profits are donated to service charities.
Jazz quartet
The jazz quartet is a small, informal ensemble of gifted musicians who
play jazz classics and their own improvisations. Built around the traditional
string ping and piano, the ensemble is led by an incredibly talented young
jazz saxophonist, and is supported with drums and the optional addition of
flugel horn.
String quartet
The Royal Artillery string Quartet is an experienced ensemble of
musicians from the string section of the orchestra. The quartet, like all Royal
Artillery Band ensembles, is regularly employed to provide musical support
to the regiment, and in particular for incidental music at mess functions and
ceremonial dinners. The Royal Artillery string quartet also plays a valuable
role in supporting state events, regularly playing at St Jame’s Palace for the
Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards.
Brass quintet
Forthcoming engagements
The Royal Artillery brass quintet is one of the more versatile ensembles
offered by the band. This experienced group of musicians is formed from
the orchestral brass section and performs a diverse repertoire of the highest
standard. The quintet is engaged on a regular basis to perform incidental
music at regimental events including formal mess dinners and cocktail
parties, and is regularly heard at Mansion House in London, adding ambience
to the Lord Mayor’s banquets. For over 10 years the quintet has proudly
supported the England rugby team at the RFU post-match dinners, always
finishing the evening with the iconic Post Horn Gallop, a piece synonymous
with Royal Artillery tradition.
If you are interested in booking the band please contact the band office.
For all up to date news, where to see the band and recruiting please visit
the band’s website.
Woodwind quintet
The woodwind quintet of the Royal Artillery Band is formed with select
players from the orchestral woodwind section. The quintet offers a viable
alternative to the traditional string quartet and brass quintet. The subtle
characteristics of the ensemble provide music of a more delicate nature
ideal for background music at a dinner or cocktail party. For this reason the
quintet is often employed to provide musical support to regimental mess
dinner nights. The quintet also forms the nucleus of the ensemble used
to provide the opening background music at investitures in Buckingham
Palace, a very prestigious and important role.
Fanfare trumpets
The spectacle of the Royal Artillery fanfare trumpets adds flourish and
prestige to any occasion. A fanfare to announce the arrival of HM The
Queen or to open a newly constructed military museum, the trumpets add
dignity and a sense of ceremony. Trumpets are available in any combination
from a solo trumpeter for a regimental funeral to a full team of eight with
percussion instruments.
May
10
11
12
18
25
30
31
Changing of the Guard, St James’s Palace
Orchestral Concert, Woolwich Barracks
Hail and Farewell Dinner, RA Mess, Larkhill
Changing of the Guard, Windsor Castle
June
01
02
07
09
10
11
12
13-16
Investiture, Buckingham Palace
Royal Salute, Hyde Park
Queens Birthday Party, British Embassy, Algiers, Algeria
The Royal Artillery Band
Woolwich Station, London SE18 4BB
0208 7813219
office.raband@armymail.mod.uk
www.army.mod.uk/raband
the wider Army. Its contemporary format and sound enable it to offer music
for evening functions, especially for after-dinner entertainment and unit
parties. Importantly the ensemble is able to provide morale boosting shows
to British troops both at home and overseas.
19
20
ubique
Officers of 1 RHA visited Firepower on 1 April as part of an officers’ education exercise that also involved
visits to HQLF, HQ 3 (UK) Div, the HAC and the MOD
Op HERRICK 13 meets Op HERRICK 14. Incoming and
to right: Capt Steve Stewart, Capt Daz Rawcliffe, Capt
Andy Parker, Capt Wayne Picken, Capt Glyn Williams, Ca
Paul Bennett
At the top of the steps, left to right: US Defence Secretary Robert M Gates, Dr Liam Fox, Gen Sir David A team of 11 runners from 103 Regt RA (V) took part in
Richards and Adm Mike Mullen, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, at the Pentagon, Washington the Liverpool Half Marathon on 28 March, raising over
£2,000 for service charities
DC. Picture: Cherie Cullen, US Department of Defense
Lt Col Mark Mackenzie Crooks and Pipe Major Noble with the 101 Regt RA (V) Pipes and Drums Band show off some Brig Will Bramble, CRA 3 (UK) Div (left) p
of the trophies they have won.
Mark Howard with his LS and GC Medal
ubique
21
Maj Ben Ingham, sunglasses, running
the Kabul half-marathon. Ben is currently Members of the RA Precision Fires BCs’ Course,
serving with the ISAF Joint Command HQ 2011. Left to right: Maj James Freeman-Griffith, Maj
Tom Foss-Smith, Maj Joe Garton, Maj Eyton Parker
in Kabul
outgoing LE officers conduct a hand over in Camp Bastion. Left
t Steve Williamson, Capt Liam Kelly, Capt Gregg Pillinger, Capt
apt Tom Cruise, Capt Chris Kerr, Capt Batty Battersby and Capt
Altcar Training Camp is celebrating 150 years since
The DRA carried out his annual inspection its foundation. As part of the celebrations Merseyside
of The King’s Troop RHA in April. Photo by ACF, including Cdts Sara Molyneux and Connor
Sgt Ian Vernon
Skerry, have planted 2,000 trees
presents Bdr
Lt Col Mike Valencia
officially
opened a new Army Cadet Force
detachment at Sarum Academy,
Salisbury on Wednesday, 30 March.
Students from St Joseph’s Wyvern
College and Bishop Wordsworth’s
academy have already joined
and it is open to cadets from any
school. The unit is sponsored and
supportedby 14 Regt RA, based at
Larkhill
Maj David Haws takes over from Maj Nathan
Sempla-Ntege (left) as the joint fires advisor to
the BAG, 3/215 Bde, on Op HERRICK 14
Long range love! Three members of
105 Bty, 1 Regt RAA, Gnr Michael
Moon, Gnr Brendan Nikolajew
and Bdr Stephen Nicholes, who
were posted to Colchester last
February to serve on Op HERRICK
13 attached to 7 Para RHA, will be
returning to Australia with beautiful
English brides! Picture courtesy of
Cascade News and Mail Online
Members of 106 Regt RA (V) at the start of the Lincoln 10.
From left to right: Capt Andy White, Lt Col Miles Brown,
WO2 (SPSI) Chris Mullen and WO1 (RSM) Mick Greaves.
22
update
Postings
Ellis
4 Regt RA
01-Dec-10
Sgt
Hastings
19 Regt RA
01-Jul-10
SSgt
Cadman AM
HQ RSA
SMIG UAV
01-Sep-11
Sgt
Willis
19 Regt RA
04-Mar-11
SSgt
Forster S
26 Regt RA
WO TAC GP
01-May-11
Sgt
Robinson
16 Regt RA
06-Dec-10
WO2
Hook NA
101 Regt RA (V)
SPSI
12-Apr-11
Sgt
Smith
16 Regt RA
01-Apr-10
WO2
McWhan KB
16 Regt RA
WO CIS
01-Sep-11
Sgt
Jennings
16 Regt RA
07-Jun-10
Sgt
Nothard
3 RHA
31-Mar-10
Promotions
Sgt
Blackett
3 RHA
01-Sep-10
Sgt
Porter
16 Regt RA
29-Jul-10
Sgt
Mawby
26 Regt RA
20-Sep-10
TO BOMBARDIER
Sgt
Newton
26 Regt RA
21-Jun-10
Sgt
Short
26 Regt RA
07-May-10
Bdr
Welbourne
5 Regt RA
08-Mar-11
Sgt
Swinscoe
26 Regt RA
04-Jun-10
Bdr
Cockfield
5 Regt RA
04-Feb-11
Sgt
Stanley
26 Regt RA
21-Jun-10
Bdr
Culshaw
39 Regt RA
01-Apr-11
Sgt
Tomkinson
26 Regt RA
28-Jun-10
Bdr
Fennel
4 Regt RA
11-Mar-11
Sgt
Wood
26 Regt RA
03-Jan-11
Bdr
Brown
4 Regt RA
20-Mar-11
Sgt
Jarrett
5 Regt RA
15-Jun-10
Bdr
McSkelly
1 RHA
21-Mar-11
Sgt
Hayward
47 Regt RA
01-Nov-10
Bdr
Higson
King’s Troop RHA
10-Dec-10
Sgt
Jones
47 Regt RA
10-Jan-11
Bdr
Morgan
1 RHA
01-Apr-11
Sgt
White
47 Regt RA
14-Dec-10
Bdr
Woolridge
1 RHA
01-Apr-11
Bdr
Koroi
4 Regt RA
22-Mar-11
Bdr
Rose
3 RHA
31-Mar-11
Bdr
Tetlow
5 Regt RA
05-Apr-11
WO2
Schofield
RSA
01-Apr-11
Bdr
Devonport
5 Regt RA
05-Apr-11
WO2
Devlin
RSA
01-Sept-10
Bdr
Challenger
5 Regt RA
05-Apr-11
WO2
Yeoman
RSA
01-Apr-11
Bdr
Silau
4 Regt RA
15-Mar-11
WO2
Sadler
5 Regt RA
01-Oct-10
WO2
Sallis
5 Regt RA
01-Apr-10
WO2
Wilkinson
47 Regt RA
01-Apr-10
TO Sergeant
Sgt
TO WARRANT OFFICER CLASS TWO
WO2
Fretwell
47 Regt RA
01-Oct-10
Sgt
Warrington
8 CTT
07-Aug-09
WO2
Hudson
3 RHA
01-Apr-11
Sgt
Smith
4 Regt RA
01-Aug-10
WO2
Callaghan
3 RHA
01-Apr-10
Sgt
Green
4 Regt RA
01-Jul-10
WO2
Norris
3 RHA
01-Apr-11
Sgt
Quinn
29 Cdo Regt RA
01-Sep-09
WO2
Busher
29 Cdo Regt RA
01-Apr-10
Sgt
Cox
32 Regt RA
09-Dec-10
WO2
Cochran
29 Cdo Regt RA
01-Apr-11
Sgt
Osbaldeston
32 Regt RA
04-Apr-11
WO2
Swinburn
16 Regt RA
01-Apr-11
Sgt
Pearson
32 Regt RA
01-Aug-10
WO2
Hopper
7 Para RHA
01-Apr-10
Sgt
Robson
32 Regt RA
01-Apr-10
WO2
Bryan
PJHQ
01-Jul-10
Sgt
Smith
32 Regt RA
08-Oct-10
WO2
Shaw
HQ DRA
01-Apr-11
Sgt
Thompson
32 Regt RA
29-Mar-10
Sgt
Trigg
32 Regt RA
01-Aug-10
Sgt
Hilton
32 Regt RA
01-Sep-10
Sgt
Bennett
32 Regt RA
31-Oct-10
Sgt
Pain
32 Regt RA
31-Oct-10
Sgt
Glover
1 RHA
01-Apr-10
Sgt
Phillips
40 Regt RA
Sgt
Burt
Sgt
Gazette
COMMANDS AND STAFF
14-May-10
Gen Sir David Richards GCB CBE DSO ADC Gen late Royal Regiment of Artillery is
1 RHA
27-Jul-10
appointed Honorary Colonel Commandant Media Operations Group (Volunteers) 18
Cooksey
1 RHA
01-Jun-10
Jun 09 in succession to Maj Gen Sir Sebastian Roberts KCVO OBE tenure expired
Sgt
Hosking
1 RHA
01-Jun-10
(Belated Entry)
Sgt
Smith
1 RHA
11-Oct-10
Sgt
Noller
4 Regt RA
31-Jan-11
Lt Gen R A D Applegate CB OBE relinquishes the appointment of Colonel
Sgt
Telford
4 Regt RA
01-Dec-10
Commandant Royal Regiment of Artillery 1 Mar 11 tenure expired
update
Maj Gen A S Ritchie CBE relinquishes the appointment of Colonel Commandant Royal
23
TERRITORIAL ARMY
Regiment of Artillery 1 Mar 11 tenure expired
Group A
REGULAR ARMY
Lt (on probation) (Acting Capt) G Blackborough to be Capt (on probation) 23 Nov
09 (Belated Entry)
Regular Commissions
Maj M J G Rimmer from Intermediate Regular Commission 21 Jan 10 to be Maj with
seniority 31 Jul 02 (Belated Entry)
Lt Col R L Pizii retires on retired pay 1 Mar 11 and is appointed to Reserve of
Officers
Lt Col A Astbury retires on retired pay 13 Feb 11 and is appointed to Reserve of
Officers
2Lt (on probation) T O L Williams is confirmed as 2Lt 12 Jul 06 with seniority 12
Jul 05 (Belated Entry)
Capt (NRPS) S A Keyland retires 10 Jan 11
Capt S M McPoland resigns commission 13 Oct 10
2Lt (on probation) P D Malan from Territorial Army Group B General List 1 Aug 10
to be 2Lt (on probation) with seniority 12 Feb 09 (Belated Entry)
Lt (on probation) (Acting Capt) S W B Newcombe to be Capt (on probation) 19
Jan 10
Maj P N Curtis retires on retired pay 2 Apr 11 and is appointed to Reserve of
2Lt T O L Williams to be Lt 1 Aug 07 (Belated Entry)
Officers
Capt (on probation) P Ross notification in Gazette (Supplement) dated 9 Dec 08 is
hereby cancelled
Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
Lt T O L Williams to be Capt 15 Sep 10
Maj N P Kalies to be Lt Col 5 Feb 11
Capt (NRPS) R J Wilmont MBE resigns commission 28 Feb 11
Lt Col C J Steadman retires on retired pay 1 Apr 11 and is appointed to Reserve of
2Lt (on probation) M J M Smith commission is terminated 8 Feb 11
Officers
Lt P B Sowton to be Capt 13 Jul 09 (Belated Entry)
Maj I D Copland TD retires 7 Feb 11
Capt A J R Dow retires 18 Apr 11 and is appointed to Reserve of Officers
Capt A B White from Short Service Commission 9 Dec 10 to be Capt with seniority
28 Jun 05
Intermediate Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
Maj B D Ransom MBE retires on retired pay 2 Apr 11 and is appointed to Reserve
of Officers
Capt S Samosa to be Maj 5 Nov 10
Capt T Waldron-Lynch to be Maj 1 Apr 11
Lt T H Ross to be Capt 18 Sep 10 (Belated Entry)
THE HONOURABLE ARTILLERY COMPANY
Group A
WO2 W H Grove to be Lt (on probation) 20 Oct 09 (Belated Entry)
Lt (on probation) (Acting Capt) W H Grove to be Capt (on probation) 20 Oct 09
WO1 K T Brennan to be Capt 7 Jan 11
(Belated Entry)
WO1 A P Fenton to be Capt 2 Apr 11
Capt (on probation) W H Grove is confirmed as Capt 20 Oct 09
WO1 J S Harvard to be Capt 2 Apr 11
Maj S C Briggs TD retires 15 Dec 10
WO1 P A Hodgson to be Capt 2 Apr 11
OCdt J Brett to be 2Lt (on probation) 28 Jul 07 (Belated Entry)
WO1 J H K Simmons to be Capt 2 Apr 11
OCdt J S H Ring to be 2Lt (on probation) 30 Mar 08 (Belated Entry)
Maj N Gaze retires on retired pay 11 Mar 11 and is appointed to Reserve of Officers
2Lt (on probation) J Brett is confirmed as 2Lt 28 Jul 07 with seniority 28 Jul 06
WO1 D Appleby to be Capt 2 Apr 11
(Belated Entry)
WO1 N G Radford to be Capt 2 Apr 11
2Lt (on probation) J S H Ring is confirmed as 2Lt 30 Mar 08 with seniority 30 Mar
WO1 A Wadsworth to be Capt 2 Apr 11
07 (Belated Entry)
WO1 R Davies to be Capt 30 Apr 11
WO1 P M Hazell to be Capt 2 May 11
Short Service Commissions
Lt D B White to be Capt 12 Oct 10
REGULAR ARMY RESERVE OF OFFICERS
Short Service Commissions
Capt G E Parton from The Active List 28 Feb 11 to be Capt
Capt A M Kilpatrick from Territorial Army Group A 1 Oct 10 to be Capt
Capt J R Ackerley from The Active List 31 Mar 11 to be Capt
2Lt J Brett to be Lt 28 Jul 08 (Belated Entry)
2Lt J S H Ring to be Lt 30 Mar 09 (Belated Entry)
These listings are derived
from information provided
by JPA, Glasgow and the
London Gazette. They have
been checked for accuracy
of reproduction. Accuracy of
information itself lies with the
originators.
Intermediate Regular Commissions
24
raa
Regimental
Family
round up
Northern Region RAA
I
n 2002 Hartlepool had four new plinths built as additions to their Cenotaph
so as to include all the people from Hartlepool who have died in conflict
since the end of World War Two. We formed a committee with representatives
from each of the eight other ex-servicemen’s associations in the town.
Since that time the Hartlepool Branch of the Royal Artillery Association, in
conjunction with Hartlepool Borough Council, has been responsible for all of
the military events held in the town. In 2006 the branch chairman suggested
we hold a small unofficial service with the Standards on the 11th of the 11th
at 1100 hours. This now happens each year with hundreds taking part in
this service, as well as the official civic service on the nearest Sunday.
Last year, the night before the 11th, the weather was horrendous to
say the least, heavy rainfall and blustery winds. But much to everyone’s
delight the storm had dissipated by dawn when it turned into a nice bright,
calm sunny, even warm, day. The cenotaph and its surrounding area had
dried out well before the parade at 1100 hours. When we formed up facing
the cenotaph and just before Last Post was sounded, two damp patches
appeared on the edge of the column – they showed the definite outline of
two soldiers in World War Two steel helmets, one carrying a rifle, the other
standing alongside him.
Within five minutes after Reveille had been sounded the patches dried
and faded away. These have never been noticed before and were only 15
feet or so in front of the many people who attended that day, so you can be
sure that we will be looking with baited breath to see if they appear again
this year. By coincidence these apparitions appeared on the cenotaph, just
below where my grandfather’s name appears and who was killed in action
during the First World War. I often wonder if it was my granddad and his pal
that had come to visit me that day or other lonely old soldiers showing their
appreciation for our tribute to the fallen.
Leicester and District RAA
Above and below: The Leicester and District Branch RAA St George’s
Day luncheon, held on 23 March. The branch was joined by colleagues
from Newark and Coventry and in all 60 people attended a memorable
occasion
Gunners Unite
by Tug Wilson
Gunner Sunday
Gunner Sunday was held
this year at the Royal
Hospital Chelsea, on 3 April.
Our picture shows Brig
David Radcliffe, the adjutant
of the RHC, and Arthur Giles
who attended to represent
his old battery, 11 (Sphinx)
HQ Bty of 16 Regt RA, who
were on post-tour leave, and
the battery’s Old Comrades
Association
The Welsh Region of Unite has adopted the RACF their military charity.
In the run up to Christmas their members raised over £2,000 for the
regimental charity. On 22 March 104 Regt RA (V) kindly hosted the
chairman of Unite in Wales, Mr John Burgham and some of his members
to a curry supper where they presented a cheque to the General Secretary
of the RACF. Front row kneeling, from left to right, Maj Jonathon Murday,
Maj John Barclay, Maj Jackie Symmons, Capt Helen Jasper, Maj Sammy
Nicholls. Back row standing from left to right, Sgt Ian Watkins, SSgt Steve
Wakefield, Lt Col Ian Vere Nicoll, Ian Smith, Jeff Woods, John Burgham,
George Maddock, Rhodri Williams and Lt Col Phillip Shepheard-Walwyn.
Remembering Rhyl
Like Len Gill (letters, April) I have fond
memories of Rhyl. I was brought up there
between the wars and in August 1940, when
a third year student at Liverpool University’s
School of Architecture, was called up and
ordered to report to 2nd Signals Training
Centre.
This, of course, was located in Prestatyn
Holiday Camp, the first purpose-built
holiday camp in the country and completed
just months before it was commandeered. A
railway warrant was provided for me and my
horse!
Following basic and other training there
I was commissioned in May 1942 through
Bulford into the RA at Catterick Camp, and
by November I had been posted to 31 Fd
Regt RA in Cyprus where the regiment was
refurbishing in the aftermath of the battle at
Alem Hamza that had occurred the previous
December.
O N Roberts
Buckingham
Nuclear alert!
I write since a nuclear accident in Japan
seems to be hogging the international news.
I am probably one of the last alive who had a
small part in the UK’s only nuclear accident,
which happened in 1957. We were living in
Carlisle where our regiment, 32 Med Regt
RA, was stationed in Durranhill Camp.
Interestingly, this comfortable camp had
been Durranhill Golf Club pre-World War
Two, and the officers’ mess had once been
the clubhouse.
I was adjutant of the regiment in 1957, and
on this particular evening, at about 5.30pm,
while I was bathing my first-born, Sarah, the
doorbell rang downstairs, followed by the
clink of spurs coming up.
The bathroom door opened and there was
the orderly officer, Lt Donald McDonald.
He told me that he’d received a phone call
half an hour earlier from Sir William Penney,
the then Chief of the UK Atomic Energy
Authority. He told him that there had been
an accident at their production facility for
nuclear warheads at Windscale, just down the
coast (now known as Sellafield). He wanted
the regiment, as the nearest army unit, to
provide radiac survey teams to carry out recce
tasks, and he wanted them immediately.
Our CO, Lt Col John Fairclough, was away
for the day visiting HQ Northern Command
in York, and the second-in-command, who I
think was Maj Norman Crawley, could not
be found. So I gave instructions on how we
would find these teams. Ten, I think from each
battery and two from RHQ, each comprising
a sergeant, a driver and a radio operator. As
they became ready with rations and spares
they left independently for Windscale.
As they streamed out of barracks, John
Fairclough arrived back from York, driving
in the opposite direction. He said to me,
“Tony, what are you doing to my regiment?”
I explained and he asked me if I had reported
up the chain to York, which I hadn’t because
I had been too busy getting the show on the
road.
Apparently the incident was discovered
when photographic plates on the Ilford
building in North London became a peculiar
colour and it was realised that a nuclear
‘plume’ (fallout) stretched from Cumberland
to London!
Early the next day we spoke to Sir William
and he invited us to the plant at Windscale.
We set off in the CO’s rather old fashioned,
box-bodied staff car and found Sir William
standing right beside one of the two towers,
which alarmingly was still on fire. He was
trying to control the re-entry to the building
with six highly qualified workers, all wearing
anti-radiation clothing. There appeared to
be an argument going on and it transpired
that these unionised gentlemen had agreed a
huge price for the operation, but were now
demanding an extra £100 each. They had him
over a barrel – and negotiations complete
they went into the building and the fire was
put out. We had little idea then of the effects
of radiation…
This was all rather a long time ago and
I have no idea if our teams, many of them
young national servicemen, who deployed
on the task for a month, suffered and bad,
long-term effects. But I do hope not. What
I do know is that our then prime minister,
Harold Macmillan, decided that it was in the
national interest to keep the matter secret for
30 years!
Brig Tony Clay
Petworth
Creating a bit of a stink!
Reading the Neate ending in the April edition
reminds me that when we were based on the
ranges in the Sinai desert in 1948 we had a
very large, all ranks ‘thunder box’. The pit
was something like 12 feet in diameter and
15 feet deep with a large wooden construction
above that had 12 seats round the edge.
Despite the heavy use of chlorine powder
to kill the cockroaches, some still remained.
So the ‘wags’ developed a bit of a habit.
Before going into residence for a short time
to read the newspaper they would ignite and
drop a thunder flash into the pit to cause the
death of the creatures through the blast effect.
All was well unless an individual was sitting
elsewhere on the apparatus and got a very
nasty and shocking experience when the blast
off went off !
Maj Cornelius Thorne
Cambridge
Neatly done...
The Neate ending in the April edition reminded
me of a very happy time with 36 HAA Regt
RA in Malta between 1955 and 1957. I well
remember the regiment departing for the
exercise in Lybia in the spring of 1956, but I
was left behind to study for the lieutenant to
captain promotion exam, which I managed to
fail. There were many distractions!
I need hardly remind your readers that
1956 was the year of the Suez Crisis, but
what will not be so well known is that 36
HAA Regt was mobilised to its gun sites.
It seemed that somebody in HQRA thought
the Egyptian Air Force might bomb Malta. I
don’t think that they would have had much to
fear from our 3.7-inch guns; 60 Bty, of which
I was part, had to be cannibalised in order to
get the regiment operational.
Consequently, I was out of a job. But not
for long because I was summoned to RHQ and
told I was to look after the entertainers who
had come out to Malta, under the auspices
of the Combined Services Entertainment
Organisation. A large number of troops had
been amassed and were living under canvas at
the Marsa Sports Club and two local airfields,
waiting (in vain) to be called into action.
And so it was that I found myself having
lunch one day with Jimmy Edwards and
Dick Bentley and being told of the former’s
requirements for polo ponies. I was asked to
ensure that there were sufficient ponies for
several chukkas each afternoon, and adequate
gin for Jimmy Edwards, and Champagne for
Dick Bentley (who would drink nothing else)
in the evenings.
A week of that, combined with my duties as
a watch keeper at movement control in Grand
Harbour, which included visiting troopships
to fill my thermos with chilled English beer,
meant I had quite a busy little ‘war’.
My picture (above) shows the CO of 36
HAA Regt RA, Lt Col B Wilson, with the
adjutant, Maj J N Astill on a parade at Tigne
Barracks, Malta, in 1955.
Lt Col Mike Davies
Chard
25
letters
26
in memoriam
Col J R Kynaston DSO MC JP
A
s a Gunner it is with great honour
that we remember Col John Roger
Kynaston DSO MC JP, Deputy Lord
Lieutenant of Shropshire. His regimental
service is a remarkable one. Three words
recur throughout; courage, calmness and
charisma.
Born on 28 August 1914, he was
educated at Eton, then at Christchurch
College, Oxford followed by a decision
to join the Army. In 1935 he attended
the Military Academy at Woolwich
affectionately known as the Shop. He was
commissioned into the Royal Artillery and
posted to 5 RHA. Uniquely, he stayed and
fought with them throughout the war.
At the start of World War Two, he
was promoted to captain and appointed
the adjutant of the regiment. They were
deployed to France and as the principal
regimental staff officer, one of his
responsibilities was to see to the movement
of guns as they supported the battle. You
can imagine his task and the chaos, as the
BEF withdrew to Dunkirk. When asked by
a member of the family how did you get
out of Dunkirk? He calmly stated, “Oh I
just hopped on to a destroyer.” No mention
of the fighting withdrawal; he was a master
of the understatement.
Once in the UK the regiment reformed
and was re-quipped and sailed in convoy
via South Africa to join the 8th Army
in Egypt. John was promoted to major
and during the Battle of El Alamein
displayed courage of the highest order.
His commanding officer was wounded
and John took over the regiment and ran
his part of the battle. There were casualties
and his headquarters was dive-bombed by
Stuka aircraft. John narrowly escaped when
a bomb landed close to his slit trench. His
eardrum was burst but with great courage
he ignored his own injury, tended the
wounded and continued on as if nothing had
happened. For his actions he was awarded an
immediate MC. Part of his citation, signed
by Gen Montgomery, Commander 8th Army
and Gen Alexander, the Commander-inChief, reads: “On one occasion he carried out
a most difficult reconnaissance over a mined
area under shell fire for the purpose of finding
a suitable position for the regiment so that
it could give close support to the armoured
brigade.” It goes on to say, “Throughout the
entire battle Maj Kynaston showed a complete
disregard to personal safety and I consider
that the example this officer has set to all
ranks has maintained the highest traditions
of the service.” He was later evacuated to a
hospital in Cairo but after two days was bored
and elected to rejoin his regiment.
After the successful battles in the Middle
East his regiment, along with other units
from 7 Armd Div, was withdrawn to the UK
in preparation for the D-Day landings, for
which the regiment was again re-quipped.
Seven days after landing John was in action
with his battery around the village of Villers
Bocage close to the city of Caen.
His actions on that day display courage,
calmness and charisma. He is awarded an
immediate DSO. His citation reads: “During
the 13th/14th June 1944 west of Villers
Bocage this officer displayed the utmost
energy, resolution and initiative in fighting
his battery. Owing to the difficulties of
ground he remained during this period with
no protection to his front. He organised his
own patrols and sniping parties at the same
time providing excellent support to 5 RTR
and finally, when attacked at 1900 hours on
the 14th by infantry, he went to the most
exposed troop and controlled fire at 400
yards range. The calmness and determination
of this officer accounted for the magnificent
fighting qualities of his battery.”
What we now know is John’s battery faced
up to the crack SS Panzer Lehr Division
who mounted the first real counter-attack
after D-Day with their new and much
feared Tiger 2 tanks. His action on the day
displayed courage and leadership of the
highest order. His battery, G (Mercer’s)
Bty RHA, fought their guns at close range,
over open sights reminiscent of something
they had done almost to the day in June
1815 at Waterloo. This time it was Panzer
Grenadiers and not French Currasiers in
their sights.
He would no doubt have been
embarrassed to have heard this tribute
of his actions throughout the war. When
asked by a member of his close family
how did you win your medals, there was
a pause, a wry smile, followed by a oneline, understated reply, “By managing to
not get killed!” Great men have humility.
John decided to leave the Army in 1947 and
retired to Hardwicke to manage an estate.
Col John, the Royal Regiment salutes you
for the contribution you have made to its
history and for the exemplary service you
have given to your country. DSG.
Last Post
BAILEY – Gnr Walter Ronald Bailey died peacefully surrounded
by his beloved wife of 46 years, Eileen, and his seven children
on 28 March, aged 80 years. He served as a Gunner from March
1945 until March 1961 and afterwards on the reserves list, a total
of 12 years service of which he was very proud.
COTTON – Lt Col Rodney Cotton died peacefully on 13 April.
Much loved husband, father and grandfather.
GILMAN – The Rev Dr Michael Gilman died on 15 April. He
served as a National Serviceman in the Gunners, worked in the
Church for several years and then became historic buildings
officer for the Greater London Council. For many years he
was a stalwart member of the RA Historical Society, seldom
missing a meeting or visit, and made a significant contribution
to maintaining Gunner history. He will be sadly missed by his
family and friends.
GITSHAM – Eric John Gitsham (known as Jack) of Furlong,
Littleport, Cambridgeshire died recently and will be greatly missed.
GOFTON – Charles Maxwell Gofton OAM, an esteemed
foundation member of the Royal Australian Artillery Association
of Tasmania and honorary life member of the Launceston
Artillery Old Comrades Association died on 2 April. Max (as he
was known) served in World War Two with 2/8th Fd Regt RAA.
He was a fine soldier and will be sadly missed. Our condolences
go to Adrian and Joan, Allyson, Warwick and family.
in memoriam
27
Maj F J French MC
aj Frederick John French, a Gunner
officer who won an MC in World
War Two for his work on early versions of
counter-mortar radars, died peacefully in
Exeter on 25 February, aged 92.
Born in December 1919, French was
just 19 years old when he enlisted in March
1939, joining a TA anti-aircraft regiment
in Cardiff. In August of the same year he
volunteered for regular war service, beating
the conscription that followed soon after
and thereby having a greater choice in the
artillery roles then available. He chose to
specialize in a then secret device known as
radio detection and ranging, which quickly
became known by the acronym ‘radar’.
Having attended a course at the School
of Anti-Aircraft Artillery at Manorbier
he deployed to France with the BEF in
February 1940 as a sergeant technical radar
instructor, his unit’s role being the protection
of British fighter aircraft. Following the
retreat to Dunkirk French refused to be
evacuated without the radar equipment that
had been entrusted into his care and it was
not until June that he reached Falmouth via
St Nazaire.
In the summer of 1940 he operated
radar in the defence of the UK during the
Battle of Britain, before attending officer
training at Shrivenham in the autumn. In
May 1941 he was briefly sent to Arborfield
to train radar operators, most of whom were
young women in the ATS; at age 21 French
was thought to be too young to stand the
inevitable temptations and he was promptly
posted to Inverness!
By December 1941 he was a captain and
an application for an overseas posting was
approved. He spent his embarkation leave
in Exeter during the Blitz, before travelling
for three months from Liverpool to Suez
via Durban in great luxury on the troopship
Empress of India. On arrival in the Middle
East he trained radar operators and helped
them operate anti-aircraft radars in Haifa,
Beirut, Tripoli and Cyprus.
By February 1943 French had
engineered a posting to the 8th Army where
he served under Gen Bernard Montgomery
in North Africa, being presented by ‘Monty’
to King George VI in Tripoli, a highlight of
his career and something he never forget. In
September 1943 he took part in the landings
on the Italian mainland at Salerno. He went
ashore on the first morning to deploy radar
on the beaches, but it soon became apparent
that the Germans had no intention of letting
the Allies form a beachhead unopposed. One
soldier wrote about the first day’s landings
at Salerno: “About daybreak, the German
artillery started shelling the beach, as well as
landing craft along the shoreline and in the
water. In the early morning German planes
would come out of the sun and strafe the
beaches, you could look up at them and all
you could see was the sun until they were
overhead. If you were on the dunes you could
almost reach up and touch them, you could
see the German pilots almost at eye level as
they went up the beaches. If you were caught
in the open all you could do was to fall on
your face and pray, there was no cover. What
made it worse, was our own ships were
shooting at the planes and because they were
so low their bullets were hitting the beaches
and dunes where we were, making it hell on
earth!”
In November 1943 French was sent to
Manorbier for another radar course, returning
to Italy in time for the fourth battle at Monte
Cassino which ended in a bloody victory for
the Allies in mid-May 1944. The Italian theatre
was overshadowed by the D-Day landings on
6 June, but bitter fighting continued all that
year as the so-called ‘D-Day Dodgers’ fought
their way north through Italy. By September
1944 French was heading up an experimental
team to locate German mortars using antiaircraft radar, initially considered a crazy idea
they achieved results, and huge popularity
amongst the divisions they worked with, as
no one else could locate enemy mortars.
French was awarded the Bronze Star by
the Americans for his training and advice
during this time. It was noted that his courage
and quiet perseverance under enemy shell
and small arms fire provided an effective
stimulus to the morale and cheerfulness of
the men working with him.
GRIFFITHS – Sgt Tony Griffiths, ex-J (Sidi Rezegh) Bty RHA,
died on 28 March after a short illness. Tony was diagnosed
with cancer in October of last year and because of its advanced
state was deemed to be untreatable. While his passing was a
relief to him he fought bravely until he was finally sapped of
all energy. His friends and colleagues wish him a fair wind and
good seas for his coming voyage, gone but not forgotten.
KETTLEY-JACKSON – Lt Col Peter Redvers Kettley-Jackson
died in Kingston Hospital on 8 February after a short illness.
He was 81. Devoted husband for 60 years of the late Yvonne,
beloved father of Roxanne and Rowena, and grandfather
In May 1945 he returned to Egypt to
lecture, before returning to the UK by
Lancaster bomber to prepare a countermortar unit for the war against Japan. The
Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings ended
the war. In November 1945 he received a
MiD, followed in December of the same
year by the award of the Military Cross
for his enthusiasm and untiring work in
deploying radar in a counter-mortar role
for the first time. The citation noted that his
success had been ‘directly responsible for
considerably reducing casualties to Allied
troops’. Major French’s work had been ‘of
the highest order involving great danger
and determination’.
In 1946 he was released from military
service. In civilian life he returned to
Exeter and to the family business. In 1948
he married Frances Mortimer and moved to
Bridford, near Exeter, where they lived for
the rest of his life, raising three children,
Elizabeth, Sarah and Thomas. French
enjoyed travelling, especially to Italy, and
being a keen golfer to many of the best golf
courses in the British Isles.
A devoted husband and father, he is
survived by his wife Frances, his three
children, eight grandchildren and four
great-grandchildren.
and great-grandfather to four, the great traveller is at last at
rest.
MORTON – Maj Richard William Barker Morton died
peacefully at home on 15 April, aged 87, after a short illness.
Beloved uncle of Dominic and Serena and friend to many.
PRENDERGAST – Mike Prendergast died on 4 April. He
served as CEPO Woolwich Garrison from August 1973 until
his retirement in December 1983. During this time he was
an honorary member of the RA Mess and consequently made
many friends among the Royal Artillery.
M
28
sport
Gunner
As usual, Gunners have enjo
Here is a visual synopsis o
The 3 RHA Alpine ski team. From left to right, standing, Gnr Alistair Shaw,
Capt Rob Ronz, Lt Col Stuart Williams, Gnr Nicholas Hodson, Bdr Jake
Bouttell. Kneeling, Lt Lizi Nicol, LBdr Aaron Lee. The team combined with
3 RHA’s Nordic ski team to retain the 1 (UK) Armd Div Best Overall Team
in the Divisional OSG Trophy. In the 1 Div Championships, Capt Ronz
came second in the super G and third in the slalom, while Gnr Hodson
won the trophy for best junior in the division.
A team from 39 Regt RA, comprising Capt Lucy Kirkpatrick, SSgt Jones,
Sgt Roberts, LBdr Weddle, Gnr Michael Easter and Gnr Michael Phelps,
pose at the bottom of the slalom piste during the RA Ski Championships
in which they came third in both the team slalom and the super giant
slalom races.
Young Officers’ Course 192 pictured in a snow storm at La Plagne, France, where
each member of the course gained a useful Basic Ski Proficiency qualification and
an insight into organising adventurous training.
In early-February members of 106 Regt RA (V) enjoyed a week of ski training in Hinterglemm, Austria. Two courses, Basic and Advanced Ski Proficiency Alpine,
were undertaken. The weather, snow conditions, excellent slopes and apres ski provided a challenging but enjoyable week for all those who attended.
sport
29
r skiing
oyed a busy and varied skiing season.
of their activities and achievements...
Members of 104 Regt RA (V) cross country skiing in testing conditions as part of an adventurous
training exercise held at Mittersill, Austria. Everyone gained something from the experience,
whether it be a qualification, a love for a new-found sport or muscles they didn’t know existed!
Top: Capt Mark Phillips of 12 Regt RA demonstrating the classic Telemark position
as he passes through a slalom gate in the 2011Telemark Ski Championships held in
Austria. Above: Capt Giles O’Sullivan-Wade, the adjutant of 12 Regt RA (in green),
attempting to finish all three legs of the mountain race at the same championships.
Each leg is usually completed by one member of a three-man relay team!
In January five members of 16 Regt RA enjoyed a week’s adventure
training on the ski slopes of Les Contaimes, France. On the final day they
organised a fancy dress downhill race which shocked other skiers as a lion
(Cpl Chris Ashcroft), a bear (LBdr Terry Eaves), Scooby Do (Bdr Martyn
Butterworth), a cowboy (SAC Matthew Wasimuth) and a ghostbuster
(LBdr Mark Wrigley) hurtled down the slopes! On a serious note, all five
gained their basic Alpine proficiency award.
Capt Trish Patterson of 32 Regt RA, a member of the RA Ladies’ Nordic and
Biathlon skiing team, on the firing point during the Army Championships.
The team came third overall, but won the Military Patrol Race.
30
sport
Under the careful guidance of the
RAYC, off shore sailing has for
many years been a strong Gunner
sport. If you thought sailing was
all about a leisurely cruise, exotic
destinations and a gin and tonic
at sundown, think again because it
can be extremely demanding – as
some members of 1 RHA found out
when they crossed the dreaded Bay
of Biscay. Here are three condensed
sailing articles for you to enjoy,
beginning with the 1 RHA epic.
1 RHA fight it out
Capt James Luck wrote to say that the
six members of 1 RHA who went aboard St
Barbara V last November didn’t quite know
what to expect, but in the end they got rather
more than they expected! The plan was for
the inexperienced crew, under the command
of qualified skipper, Bdr Lee Brook, to take
the yacht from Gosport to Lisbon. All went
well while training in the Solent, though the
familiarisation trip to Torquay that followed
was ‘a little choppy’ and everyone, except
Cpl O’Neill and Gnr Beesley succumbed to
various degrees of seasickness.
A day later we left the UK prepared to be
at sea for about five days. It felt good as the
coast of Devon finally dropped out of view
and with favourable conditions we made 150
miles that day, with a pod of dolphins keeping
us company most of the way. By now we
were getting fairly competent at most of the
jobs on board and changed our first fore sail
at night, clipped to the boat for safety and
getting drenched in the process. That first day
of off shore sailing also proved that no matter
if you call it a ‘watch’ or just cut to the chase
and call it a ‘stag’ getting up in the middle
of the night when cold and soon to be wet is
never fun!
The following day was our first in the After an extremely dogged effort by Bdr
Bay of Biscay and around the time when the Robson to maintain consciousness, if only to
skipper thought it was safe to confide some constantly complain how much his head hurt,
interesting facts, namely, how insurance came the welcome news that a helicopter was
premiums double for boats crossing it during on its way and 30 minutes out. We started
October and November, and how five boats receiving instructions on how to prepare the
had been dismasted there the previous
I don’t care how badly it’s snowing back
week. Suitably reassured we made
good progress again in relatively calm
there, I’m not sailing back
conditions, getting about a third of the
way across the bay… when later that night boat for the rescue: we dropped our main sail
near disaster struck.
(our foresail was still in tatters secured to the
In the late-evening the wind ripped our rail) and motored a steady course.
foresail and as Gnr Beesley and Bdr Robson
Before long a French Air Sea Rescue
clipped onto the boat and prepared to change helicopter appeared overhead and a diver in
the damaged sail, a wave slew the stern a luminous dry suit was lowered, making
of the boat through the wind, causing the several unsuccessful attempts to land on the
boom to swing violently over the cockpit. boat. At length, and after some help with
This propelled Bdr Robson into the side a long pole, he got near enough to the rail
of the cockpit where he hit his head, badly for the crew to drag him in by his legs. He
fracturing his skull. He was quickly taken then came down below decks and suavely
below where Capt Luck and Bdr Brook announced: “Bonjour, I am ze diver,” before
applied a field dressing to a nasty head wound receiving a handover of the casualty, fixing a
as the remaining members of his watch, Gnrs neck brace and heaving him back on to the
Beesley and Renhard, showing lots of nerve deck and fixing themselves back on to the
went forward again to change the sails again winch.
in dangerous conditions. While Capt Luck
After telling us what hospital in Brest
tried to keep Bdr Robson conscious and out of they were going to, a quick radio instruction
shock, Bdr Brook sent off a May Day signal. from the diver into his handset sent the pair
of them soaring up to the helicopter. We
altered course for Brest and began following
in the helicopter’s wake, eventually making
landfall 18 hours later.
After several days enjoying the limited
delights of Brest while we monitored Bdr
Robson’s recovery and arranged for his
medevac home, we set sail again to see what
else the Bay of Biscay had to offer. The
answer was another ripped foresail on the
first night and the loss of the running gear
on which the main sheet travels as the heavy
conditions continued to take a toll.
After a day spent victualling the boat and
sightseeing in La Corunna, we began the
final leg of the journey, round Cape Finisterre
and south following the coast of Spain and
Portugal to Lisbon. Nobody had told the
sea that we were no longer in the Bay of
Biscay and conditions were not markedly
improved: extremely changeable winds
sport
31
Gunners
Gunner sails the Atlantic
Lastly, WO2 Jase Greasley of 14 Regt
RA managed to get a berth for Exercise
Caribbean Endeavour – a joint services
adventure training exercise aboard a 67-foot
Challenge 67 sail training vessel. The fourweek leg of the yacht’s journey that Jase was
involved in was across the Atlantic from the
Canary Islands to St Lucia.
He wrote: “The crossing of the Atlantic
was different from normal sailing trips in
at sea
meant that everyone worked hard tacking,
getting sails up or down, reefs in or out or any
combination thereof. Two more days of sleep
deprivation and permanent damp brought us
to our ultimate destination: Lisbon.
With Bdr Robson safely back to the UK, it
is probably fair to say that none of us has been many ways as the crew had to get used to not
so pleased to step on to dry land as when we seeing anything apart from water, water and
reached the end of our three week expedition. more water day after day, and it is surprising
All the soldiers from the regiment worked how grown men can get excited by seeing
extremely hard in unfamiliar and arduous a cargo ship. We did have a few flying fish
conditions, learning lots about sailing and land on the boat and had many visits from
themselves. However, as we enjoyed an Ice dolphins swimming in our bow waves. We
also trawled a line to try to catch
Cold in Alex moment in
a pub in Lisbon we saw After 18 sweaty days we some fish and managed to catch a
the BBC news showing
eventually saw land… tasty barracuda. After 18 sweaty
days with no proper shower
Gatwick
Airport
snowed-in and closed when we were due to and sleeping in a sweat-drenched bunk we
be flying in the next day. I think Cpl O’Neill eventually saw land…
“I believe the trip was very worth while; it
summed it up best when he said, “Boss, I
don’t care how badly it’s snowing back there, tested people on leadership and communication
skills and made some people realise that
I’m not sailing back!”
though they are highly qualified in their own
YOs on the Solent
fields, you still need to listen to other people.
Meanwhile, 2Lt Tom Sprigge describes a A personnel gain for we was working closely
weekend nine YOs spent sailing from Gosport with other arms and services and I now have
to Cowes and back, the aim being for them a better understanding of how others work
to learn a little bit about sailing, the RAYC which I believe will aid me in the future.”
and, most importantly, the value of adventure
training for the soldiers they would one day
command, and how to organise it.
An uneventful cruise to the Isle of Wight
and a night in Cowes harbour was followed
by a slightly more taxing return trip against
a stiff breeze and unhelpful tides. There was
inevitably a little ‘mal de mer’ but thankfully
Air Sea Rescue and ‘ze diver’ were not
required.
32
sport
Gunner Rugby Union
T
he Gunner Rugby Union season began
on 15 September last year with the InterCorps Festival at Aldershot following a brief
training camp. A large squad was taken to the
competition to explore new talent and confirm
the squad of 40 players for the 2010/11
season. The competition went well with
victories over the Infantry and Royal Signals
and narrow defeats to the Sappers, RLC and
the REME who were the eventual winners.
Selecting the squad was difficult based on
the emerging talent and the arrival back from
operations of a number of established Gunner
players.
The inter-corps trophy began in October
with our opening fixture at home against
the Infantry and after a shaky start the team
clicked and produced a bonus point victory
of 54-10. Next up was the annual grudge
match against the Sappers on 3 November
2010, again played at home, and a fixture the
Gunners have not won for the last four years.
In a thrilling and nail biting match LBdr Ken
Dowding (7 Para RHA) led his team to 24-19
victory with tries from Bdr Ben Qoroya and
LBdr Toni Tonivala (both 4 Regt RA) to the
delight of the Gunner supporters.
Prestigious
As usual the match was followed by the
annual Gunner Sapper dinner where the
Chairman RARFC, Brig Bramble, reminded
us of the history of this prestigious fixture
dating back to 1889 and then presented
colours to SSgt Marshall USSO, Bdr Pugh
and Gnr Davies 47 Regt RA, LBdr Bratt
16 Regt RA, LBdr Speight 12 Regt RA and
Gnr Boladau 32 Regt RA and an award of
honorary colours to our President, Maj Gen
Brealey.
A development team was pulled together
for our annual fixture to compete for the
Wilkes Cup on 10 November against Jersey
RFC. On a hideously wet afternoon the
team threw away a substantial lead as the
conditions worsened but achieved a fair 17-17
draw. As ever the squad were superbly hosted
and the following day attended a moving
Remembrance Parade at the Cenotaph in St
Helier.
Due to the wintry conditions in early
December our fixture against the Royal
Signals was postponed until February which
meant a long gap including Christmas leave
before the squad came together to play the
RLC, in Abingdon, on 19 January. A strong
team was fielded but with a notable absence
of our captain, LBdr Ken Dowding (who had
been selected to play for the Ospreys) leaving
Capt Jon Easton (26 Regt RA) to take up the
captaincy. The team began well but soon got
on the wrong side of the referee and despite
scoring through a well-worked Gnr Ben
sport
33
Skippers and
crew wanted
season
round
up
n
The RAYC yacht, Saint Barbara V, has been entered into the Sail Training Association’s Tall Ships
Races this year; an annual gathering of a fleet of the world’s most famous sailing vessels and
the opportunity for some fantastic offshore sailing. The fleet gathers in Waterford, Ireland and
sails via Greenock, Lerwick, Stavanger (Norway) and on to Halmstad in Sweden. There are nine
berths on board of which there will be room for up to six ‘trainees’ (50 per cent or the crew has to
be 16-25 years old). The remaining crew will be made up of the skipper and the qualified watch
leaders. This is an outstanding event which gives a mix of challenging offshore sailing, in some
glorious parts of Europe, with a healthy dose of international social opportunities for those taking
part. The dates for the exercise are:
Leg 1: 18 - 29 Jun 11. Gosport to Waterford (Ireland). Delivery Leg. Leg 2: 29 Jun - 10 Jul 11.
Waterford to Greenock (Scotland). Race 1. Leg 3: 10 - 22 Jul 11. Greenock to Lerwick (Shetland).
Cruise in company. Leg 4: 22 - 29 Jul 11. Lerwick to Stavanger (Norway). Race 2. Leg 5: 29
Jul - 7 Aug 11. Stavanger to Halmstad (Sweden). Race 3. Leg 6: 7 Aug - 20 Aug 11. Halmstad
to Gosport. Delivery leg.
Crew will be required to make a personal contribution but much of the trip will be paid for by
Adventure Training grants. HQs, regiments (both regular and TA) and individuals are encouraged
to participate. If interested please contact:
SSgt Smith,Export Support Team (Larkhill)
Tel: 01980 845786, Fax: 01980 845801. Email: uktiestl-fd1@mod.uk
or Lt Col R B Bolton RA, SO1 Export Support Team (UKTI/DSO)
Tel: 020 7215 8218, Fax: 020 7215 8353
Email: robin.bolton@ukti.gsi.gov.uk
by Maj Nick Andrew
Director RA RFC
Jim Philippson Royal Artillery
Memorial 3 Peaks Challenge
14 Regt RA is hosting the Jim Philippson Royal Artillery
Memorial 3 Peaks Challenge on 10-12 June. All Gunner
Regular and TA Regiments and formed teams of four are
encouraged to attend. The event will start at Ben Nevis
followed by Scarfell Pike and finish at Mt Snowdon.
For further information and details contact:
Maj KD Fitchett on mil 94322 5606 or speak with your
RHQ who has the admin instructions
Naiaga (12
Regt RA) try they
suffered three yellow cards in quick
succession losing all their second row which
led to a RLC penalty try. The RLC finished
ahead 16-13 but still enough to earn a losing
bonus point.
The next fixture was the rearranged fixture
against the Royal Signals, at home, on 16
February. The team was keen to put right
the disappointing result against the RLC and
produced an impressive bonus point victory
34-17 putting the team at the top of the merit
table. The final fixture was against the Corps
Festival champions, the REME, in Arborfield
on 2 March with a victory required to confirm
our place in the corps finals. Sadly this was
not to be after a fierce fought game against
an impressive well drilled REME side who
capitalised on a mistake at our lineout to
score a try to win the game 10-0.
While very disappointing to not make
the corps finals, this season has been a real
success notably in our first victory over the
Sappers for four years. We are delighted
with the news that LBdr Ken Dowding (7
Para RHA), LBdr Sam Speight (12 Regt
RA) and Gnr Bola Boladau (32 Regt RA)
have been named for the Army squad in the
Inter-Services and we are hopeful that all
three will make the Army Navy. Our thanks
go to our primary sponsor Interserve and our
additional sponsors; the RAI, Fury Rugby
and the Armed Forces and Veterans Group
for their generous support.
box head
34
sport
sport
35
RA RFC Forecast of Events
Match Date
Event
Location
Remarks
Wed, 18 May
RA v REME
Aldershot
Lawson Cup Round
1 Corps Competition
Wed, 1 June
RA v RE
Larkhill
Lawson Cup Round
2, Corps Competition
Wed, 15 June
RA v RLC
South
Cerney
Lawson Cup Round
3, Corps Competition
Wed, 25 June
Corps Finals
Twickenham,
The Stoop
Lawson Cup Final,
Corps Competition
Wed, 6 July
RA v Royal
Marines
Larkhill
Sebastopol Cup,
Annual Inter Corps
Match, Annual Dinner
Night
Thurs, 28 July
RA 9’s
Challenge
Cup
Larkhill
Challenge Cup , RA
Inter Unit Competition
Fri, 9 Sept
Army v Royal
Navy
Twickenham,
The Stoop
Jack Harrison VC
Memorial Trophy,
Inter Services
Competition
11 May
R Signals v Gunners
Blandford
Quads
13 May
Gunners v Sappers
Blandford
Quads
6-10 Jun
Gunner Cup Week
Larkhill
Gunner football
36
notices
FOR SALE
A copy of History of the Royal Regiment of
Artillery, Anti-Aircraft Artillery 1914-1955 by Brig
NW Routledge is offered for sale. In near-perfect
condition, small tear in dust jacket. Current
web-site price £60. Offers over £40. Tel. 01297
553170.
INFORMATION WANTED
PAST RSMS OF 29 CDO REGT RA
29 Cdo Regt RA will be holding its 50th
anniversary in 2012 and is trying to track down
the contact details of all past RSMs of both 29
and 95 Cdo Regts RA since its formation in 1962.
Anybody with any information is asked to contact
SSgt Harley on 01752 236131 or by email to:
philip@pharley.orangehome.co.uk
GUNNERS WHO HAVE SERVED IN OMAN
For historical records I am trying to compile a
list of Gunners of all ranks who have served in
the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery on loan service
or contract. The list will be lodged with the
archives at Firepower. Please send your details
to Maj Bob Begbie, RHQ RA, RA Barracks,
Larkhill SP4 8QT or email: ArtyCen-RHQRARegtSecAsst@mod.uk
SGT BILL TRUBY - 25 REGT RA
I am trying to trace anybody who knew Sgt Bill
Truby who served in 58 Bty, 25 Regt RA in Jansi,
India, in the 1930s. Any information please to Mrs
C Whittaker (nee Truby) at 21 Woffington Close,
Hampton Wick, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 4EF.
1ST REGT MALAYSIAN ARTILLERY
The committee of the Malaysian Gunner Club is
seeking to contact the undermentioned retired
officers with a view to inviting them to the 1st
Regt Malaysian Artillery golden anniversary in
Jan 2012. Lt Col WE Black MBE, Lt Col PC Pike,
Lt Col DWO Price, Maj NMR Sherston-Baker,
Capt WMR Oliver, Capt WPS Payne, Lt NGSD
Gray, Lt KW Pearce. Please contact Maj AR
Ramachandran by tel: 0603 4108 4518 or by
email to: rama@artimal.com.mal
INFORMATION
RA SHOOT
If anyone is interested in joining the RA Shoot for
the 2011/12 season, please contact the secretary
by email to: richcrawford@hotmail.com
5 REGT RA RACE DAY 2011
The annual 5 Regt RA race day will be held at
Catterick Racecourse on Wed 13 Jul. Further
information and ticket details can be obtained
from Capt Steve Phillips on 01748 87 5607 or
Stephen.Phillips594@mod.uk
12 REGT RA OLD BOYS
I have set up a website for ex-members of 12
Regt RA at www.12regraoldboys.com It seeks
to promote friendship and to keep the family
together and in touch with each other, mainly
through a full forum, with instant chat, photo
uploads and a messaging service. If you require
any further information please contact me,
Robin Oliver. Tel: 01724 735278. Mobile: 07860
934880.
DEFENCE SURVEYORS’ ASSOCIATION
The Defence Surveyors’ Association will run the
fifth in its series of annual seminars on historical
military and hydrographic surveying, mapping
and charting at the Royal School of Military
Survey on Sat 11 Jun. The seminar will run
from 1045 to 1700 hours and six presentations
will be given. The cost of attendance is £15, to
include tea and coffee breaks and a finger-buffet
lunch. Bids to attend this seminar may be made
by email to: maptnolan@googlemail.com by
telephone to 01635 253167 or by writing to M
A Nolan, Tall Trees, Broad Layings, Woolton Hill,
Newbury, RG20 9TS.
42 (ALEM HAMZA) BTY RA
Calling all 42 (Alem Hamza) Bty RA members
past, serving and present. There is a popular
ground swell to form the 42 (Alem Hamza) Bty
RA Association. If you’re interested in being
part of it please let me have your email address
and contact telephone number. Send details
to alemhamza@hotmail.co.uk All ranks are
welcome to join.
ITALY CAMPAIGN MEMORIAL
A memorial is being planned at the National
Memorial Arboretum in Alwrewas, Staffordshire,
to commemorate the Italy Campaign to be paid
for by public donation. Fund raising has begun
and if you wish to contribute or would like to know
more then please be kind enough to contact:
Ann Hamlet by email to: stitchseller@aol.com or
telephone 07982 250913
REUNIONS
47 REGT RA REGIMENTAL REUNION
The serving members of 47 Regt RA would like
to invite all ex-members to a Regimental Reunion
weekend 10 -11 June on Thorney Island. The
weekend will encompass functions in both the
Officers’ Mess and WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess on Fri
10 Jun followed by an all ranks day on Sat 11
Jun. The all ranks day will cost £20 per head;
children under 16 yrs are free. The Saturday will
run as follows: 1200 -1700 - Families Day, 1800
- 0200 - Music Festival (adults only) . The ticket
price will include all entertainment and food
served in the evening. Barbecue food will also
be available for a small charge. There will also be
a cash bar throughout. We are also offering the
opportunity to camp in a designated area - £5
for tents and £8 for caravans, camper and motor
homes. Please contact Maj Carolyne Young, BC
31 (HQ) Bty RA. Tel Mil: 94295 8234 or civil:
01243 388283 or email: 47RA-31BTY-BC@mod.
uk for a return form.
SANDHURST INTAKE SEVEN
Intake Seven is combining with Intake Six to hold
the 60th aniversary of our commissioning on Wed
10 Aug at the RMA. The event will start at 0900
hours with a service in the chapel followed by
the Commandant’s parade and a reception and
luncheon. The basic cost will be £60. Limited
overnight B&B may be available. If not already
received, full details and an application form
for attendance can be obtained from Maj Jules
McColl, Sandhurst Foundation, RMA Sandhurst
GU15 4PQ or email: jules.mccoll@sandhurstfou
ndation.org
G PARA BTY (MERCER’S TROOP) RHA
The fourth all ranks reunion will take place at
The Cliffs Hotel, Blackpool, from 18 to 20 Nov. A
number of serving members of the battery will
also attend. This year is notable in that F and I
Btys are also holding their reunions in Blackpool
during the same weekend. All ex-Mercer’s
personnel are welcome to attend this very popular
and successful reunion, and if not already on the
mailing list, should contact Eric Royle by email to:
ericroyle@live.co.uk
32 REGT RA
A reunion for 32 Regt RA will take place at
the Doric Hotel, Blackpool, 19-23 May. Please
contact Tug Wilson on 01928 712948 for more
details.
5 REGT RA OFFICERS’ MESS REUNION
DINNER
All officers who have served with 5 RHA or 5
Regt RA, including late entry officers who
served with the regiment before commisioning,
are invited to attend a reunion to be held at the
RA Mess on Sat 4 Jun. It is intented to conduct
a serving regimental officers v old boys cricket
match in the afternoon followed by a black tie
dinner that evening. Further information will be
promulgated in due course, for any immediate
enquires and to ensure contact database details
are correct please liaise direct with Maj Charlie
Anderson, 5 Regt RA on 01748 875626 or by
email: 5RA-PBTY-BC@mod.uk
RETIRED GUNNER OFFICERS IN DEVON
The biennial lunch for retired Gunner officers in
Devon is planned to be held at the Officers’ Mess,
Royal Citadel, Plymouth, by kind permission of
the CO 29 Cdo Regt RA, on Wed 22 Jun. Details
are being circulated by e-mail and post. Any
retired Gunner officer in Devon who has not
been contacted and would like to lunch with
fellow Devonian Gunners should contact: By email: gunneroffrslunch@aol.co.uk or telephone
Paul d’Apice at 01626 863129.
1 RHA REUNION DINNER - WARNING ORDER
The 60th annual dinner of 1 RHA will be held at
the RA Mess, Larkhill on Fri 2 Dec. This is the
first time the dinner will be held at Larkhill for
some years, so please book early to reserve
a place. Details of the dinner will be sent to
former members later in the year. Please
contact Maj Iain Harrop on 01980 602344 or
by email to: iain.harrop412@mod.uk
NO 35 YOS’ COURSE
A reunion luncheon for 35 YOs’ Course will
celebrate the 60th anniversary of the course. It
will be held at the RA Mess, Larkhill, on Tue 28
Jun. Details will be sent to all known members of
the course. For more information please contact
Maj Colin Stuart on 02078 347580 or Maj John
Braisby on 01425 270523.
36 REGT RA
A 36 Regt RA reunion to be held on the weekend
of 23-25 Sep at the Village Hotel, Coventry. For
more details contact Monty on 07811442265 or
e-mail gunner460@yahoo.co.uk
to place your notice here contact 01980 634204
G TROOP (MORTAR LOCATING) FROM FIELD
REGTS 1970-1990
G Troop (mortar locating) from field regiments
1970-1990 are holding a reunion at the Garrison
Rooms, The Garrison Hotel, Sheffield on 29 Oct
starting at 1900 hours. Cost is £15 per person,
and includes a buffet meal. Rooms are available
for those requiring accommodation. For more
information please contact Mr Rod Howard by
email at rodneyvhoward@hotmail.com
LE OFFICERS’ ANNUAL DINNER
– WARNING ORDER
The next Late Entry Officers Dinner is planned for
Sat 24 Sep. It will be held in the RA Mess, Larkhill.
The dinner is open to all serving and retired LE
officers and their partners. Dress is black tie.
Accommodation is at a premium and subject to
higher priority bids. Costs: dinner approx £25 per
head, accommodation £10 serving or £14 retired
per head per night. For further information please
contact Maj Craig Purvis on 01980 84 5928.
EX-ARMY APPRENTICES
A dinner for all ex-Army apprentices will be held
at the Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool on the evening
of 24 Jun. For further details please contact
Colin Weir on 01704 875653 or by email to:
chepchappy@btinternet.com
57 (BHURTPORE) BTY RA - WARNING ORDER
57 (Bhurtpore) Bty RA are holding a reunion party
at Larkhill on Sat 21 Jan next year. The battery’s
medal parade will be held on the same day. All
ex-members of the battery, serving or retired,
are welcome. Please contact 2Lt Steph Manning
by email to: bty_57@live.co.uk or tel 01980
845577.
4 RHA
The 50th reunion of 4 RHA being redesignated
4 Regt RA will take place at 1200 hours, Sun 19
Jun, at the National Memorial Arboretum, Staffs
for all past members and their families. This
will take the format of a buffet lunch (including
bar facilities), a wreath laying service and
afternoon tea, finishing about 1700 hours. For
those wishing to stay locally, Sat 18 Jun, the
night before, accommodation will be arranged
at a local hotel. Those accommodated overnight
will be able gather for an informal dinner and a
chinwag in the bar. Anyone wishing to attend the
reunion, who has not yet been contacted, should
please get in touch as soon as possible with
Derek Bender, 23 Heol Will George, Waunarlwydd,
Swansea, SA5 4RS. Tel: 01792 536257.
14 (COLE’S KOP) BTY RA
14 (Cole’s Kop) Bty RA will be holding an all
ranks reunion at St George’s Barracks, North
Luffenham, on Fri 29 Jul. The reunion will
commence at 1330 hours with a families’ day
with activities for both kids and adults. The
evening function will then commence at 1900
hours and will include a live band, DJ, and an
evening meal. Any ex-member who wishes to
attend should contact either: Sgt Stuart Nugent
on 01780 721307, email: stu7272@hotmail.
co.uk or Bdr Dan Capewell on 01780 727655.
NÉRY AND EAGLES - 22ND ANNUAL
REUNION
The 22nd annual reunion for former members
of L (Néry) Bty RHA and N Bty (The Eagle Troop)
RHA will take place at Barnard Castle on Sat
27 Aug. Letters will be sent out in May, anyone
not on the mailing list or doesn’t receive a
copy can make contact through the web site
at: http://www.lneryoca.org.uk
42 REGT RA
A 42 Regt RA reunion will be held on the weekend
of 3-5 Jun at the Royal Clifton Hotel and Spa
in Southport, commencing at 1400 hours. All
members and partners, attached personnel to
the regiment and guests are most welcome on
this traditional occasion. Further details can be
obtained from the secretary by phone to 01132
539278, email Secretary@42oca.com or text
address to 07983 123091.
45 REGT RA OFFICERS’ REUNION LUNCH
The 45 Regt RA officers’ reunion lunch will
take place at the RA Mess, Larkhill, on Sun 17
Jul, in this the 60th anniversary of the Battle
of Imjim. Former officers of 45 Regt (RHQ, 10,
34, 52, 70, 94, 116, 170 (including whilst an
independent battery), 176 and HQ Batteries
and REME Workshops/LAD are invited to
attend. Spouses will be most welcome.
Individual invitations have been sent out to
those members on the list from 2008. For
those who are not on the list or who have not
received an invitation by mid-April and wish
to attend this special reunion, please contact
the secretary, Lt Col David Clubley by e-mail at
davidclubley@tiscali.co.uk or for those without
e-mail, please contact Rev J Michael Phillips,
Heath Cottage, Pinks Hill, Wood Street Village,
Guildford, Surrey, GU3 3DE.
GUNNERS IN BRISTOL COCKTAIL PARTY
By kind permission of the BC 266 Bty RA (V),
the spring Gunners in Bristol reception will take
place at the Artillery Ground, Whiteladies Road,
Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2LG on Thu 19 May from
1900 to 2100 hours. All serving and retired
Gunners in Bristol and surrounding counties
are invited to attend. Partners and relatives
aged over 18 are also welcome. Those wishing
to attend should register for an application form
via by email (preferably) to gunnersinbristol@
googlemail.com, or by letter addressed to The
Secretary, Gunners in Bristol, C/O PSAO, 266
(GVA) Battery RA(V) at the Artillery Ground or by
phone with the secretary, Gerard Churchhouse
on 01208-850016. Tickets cost £10 per
person. Dress: regimental/battery ties.
11 (SPHINX) BTY RA
The 11th reunion of 11 (Sphinx) Bty RA will
take place at the Queen’s Hotel, Newport,
Gwent on the weekend 23-25 Sep. Cost is £15
per person, which includes a buffet and music.
All serving members and former members of
the battery are welcome to attend. For further
details please contact either Arthur Giles on
02083 052499 or by email to: liaison11sbty@
aol .com or Maj Roberts by email to:
CEO@11sphinxbtyweb.co.uk
39 REGT RA
On 9 July 39 Regt RA are holding a reunion
and family day to commemorate the 20th
anniversary of Op GRANBY. The reunion will be
held at Albermarle Barracks. 1300-1800 hours
families’ day; 1500-0100 reunion, band, disco.
Tickets cost £5. Please contact the RSM for
details on 0191 239 3410.
3 RHA OFFICERS’ REUNION DINNER
WARNING ORDER
The 3 RHA officers’ reunion dinner will take
place in the RA Mess, Larkhill, on Fri 25 Nov.
The dinner is open to all officers who have
served in the regiment, including LE officers
who served prior to being commissioned.
Further details will follow in due course. The
dinner secretary will be Maj Tim Davies who
can be contacted at 3 RHA, Caen Barracks,
BFPO 30, by telephone on 0049 05051 962
2737 or by email to: 3rha-m-bc@mod.uk
1903 AIR OP - KOREA
The next reunion will be held on Wed 14
Sep at Cullompton, near Exeter. If you have
not received a letter, and you wish to attend,
please contact Ian or Dorothy Dodd on 01747
838345 as soon as possible, but no later than
8 Aug. If you have photos please bring them
with you.
TO LET
SOUTH WEST FRANCE
Peaceful get-away. Self-contained ground
floor cottage studio apartment (sleeps four,
one double/one twin). British owned and run.
Private terrace with BBQ in cottage garden,
idyllic countryside location with stunning
views, near Lot Valley, Conques, Gorges
du Tarn. Perfect for a chill out and ideal for
walking (routes and guides available), canoeing
and sight seeing. Adventure parks and other
children’s centres within the hour. Skiing in
the winter 50 mins away. 6m pool (Jun-Sep).
WiFi. Nearest airports Rodez (Ryanair) 25 mins,
Albi 1 hour and Toulouse 2½ hours. Visit www.
Luchaut.com for details.
PROVENCE
Peaceful hill village, 25 miles Nice airport.
Comfortable, well-equipped villa sleeps four/
six (two bedrooms two bathrooms). Large
terrace with porches and olive trees for
shade, garden with secure pool and parking.
Wonderful countryside, superb small river.
No
smokers/dogs.
Details:
Couldrey
01785 818228 or 01865 769206. Email:
bcouldrey@aol.com or marion.couldrey@dsl.
pipex.comt
47 REGT RA
The serving members of 47 Regt RA would like
to invite all ex-members to a regimental reunion
weekend 10-11 Jun. The event will take place in
Baker Barracks, Thorney Island. Those wishing
to attend are requested to make initial contact
with Maj Carolyne Young, BC 31 (HQ) Bty RA. Tel:
Mil: 94295 8234 or Civ: 01243 388234 or email:
47RA-31BTY-BC@Mod.uk. The weekend will
encompass functions in both the Officers’ Mess
and WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess on Fri 10 Jun, followed
by an all ranks day on Sat 11 Jun. Further details
including costs will be promulgated in due course.
For now Maj Young looks forward to hearing from
you all.
37
38
competitions
The closing date for all competitions in this month’s edition is Friday 24 June 2011. The winners will be drawn at
random and notified as soon as possible. Don’t forget to fill out the form at the bottom of the page.
Spot the difference
To win an A6 notebook holder and
waterproof notebooks, kindly donated
by GarrisonPRI.co.uk, all you have to is
spot the five differences in the photos
above, fill in the form below and send
your answers to The Gunner.
Please tick which competitions you are entering.
Then fill out all your details and send it to us Gunner
Publications, HQ DRA, RA Barracks, Larkhill,
Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 8QT.
Spot the difference
Wordsearch


Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tel: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
..........................................
..........................................
Last month’s winners were:
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE: WO2 (BSM) Thorne, ATR Pirbright
WORDSEARCH: Mr Steve Truslove, Kent
The Gunner wordsearch
Which one of the military and artillery terms listed does not
appear in the wordsearch? They may be horizontal, vertical,
diagonal, forwards or backwards. Solve the puzzle and you
could win a copy of Eastern Inferno, as featured below.
E
B
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COMPOUND
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astern Inferno - The Journals of a German Panzerjager on the
Eastern Front 1941-1943 does just about everything it says on
the tin. For this is a quality hardback book based on the diaries of
Hans Roth, a German anti-tank Gunner who fought in the holocaust
that was the dreaded Eastern Front. Written over
the course of two years, starting with Operation
Barbarossa, the book tells the story of the bitter
struggle in the harsh and unforgiving Russian
landscape, including first-hand accounts of brutal
massacres and ruthless military tactics.
The book is available from Casemate
Publishing. To order a copy either go to www.
casematepublishing.co.uk or phone 01635
231091. Normally priced at £20 you can try
to win a copy by solving the wordsearch
puzzle above. Enjoy!
up front
T
Neate ending
ed ‘Geordie’ Oldfield sent me this
month’s photo which shows five
members of 12 (Minden) Bty RA in
Palestine in 1947. It was taken at the edge
of Mount Carmel, near Haifa in the North
of the troubled region. “Palestine is often
referred to as a forgotten conflict,” Ted
told me solemnly.
The battery’s long journey began in
Southampton from where they sailed to
Port Said. Next they travelled south to
Cairo where they caught the train up to
Gaza. The last stretch towards Haifa was
by road. “The battery stopped for a few
hours in Nazareth,” remembered Ted.
Whilst there Ted and his crew filled up
their water bottles from what they were
told was a holy well. “It was the best
medicine I have ever tasted,” joked Ted.
“I had just turned 18 years old when
the photo was taken,” Ted told me. I asked
him what it had been like in the wake of
WW2 travelling to such a place at such a
young age. “A lot of us were only kids,”
agreed Ted, “We didn’t really know what
was going on; we were just there to do our
job.” And, the job our Armed Forces faced in
Palestine was a dangerous one.
Prior to my conversation with Ted I
knew little about the conflict in Palestine
during those years before the new Israeli
government. However, what I now know,
I shall never forget.
Left to right: Lt Johny Naylor, 2Lt
Chalky White, Bdr Tang Tansley, Bdr
Geordie Oldfield and unknown.
A
39
40

Here - British Army

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