101 years ~ 1915 - 2016

WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE 2 0 1 6

Cymru Am Byth

WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE 2016

COLONEL-IN-CHIEF Her Majesty The Queen

COLONEL OF THE His Royal Highness The Prince of KG KT GCB OM AK QSO PC ADC

REGIMENTAL COLONEL General R J Æ Stanford MBE

REGIMENTAL ADJUTANT Colonel (Retd) T C S Bonas BA

ASSISTANT REGIMENTAL ADJUTANT Major M Browne BEM

REGIMENTAL VETERANS Jiffy Myers * REGIMENTAL HEADQUARTERS , , , SW1E 6HQ Contact Regimental Headquarters by Email: [email protected] View the Regimental Website at www.army.mod.uk/welshguards View the Welsh Guards Association Website at www.welshguardsassociation.com Regimental Veterans Officer [email protected] * AFFILIATIONS 5th The Royal Australian Regiment HMS The

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2 WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE CONTENTS Forewords Tours Regimental ...... 4 Saint Charles de Percy ...... 79 Commanding Officer ...... 6 Operation Somme Reflect ...... 80 1st Battalion Welsh Guards Exercise Somme Dragon ...... 81 The Prince of Wales’s ...... 8 Centenary Pilgrimage to The Somme ...... 82 Number Two Company ...... 12 Regimental Battlefield Tour ...... 86 Number Three Company ...... 16 Headquarter Company ...... 18 Other Articles Support Company ...... 22 Off to the Races ...... 89 Regimental Band Honouring the Regiment’s Sportsmen ...... 90 Tattoo Down Under ...... 25 Town Remembers its Fallen Sons ...... 91 FA Cup Final ...... 27 The Welsh Guards Collection ...... 92 Thiepval Memorial ...... 27 The Association Battlefield Tour ...... 94 Distribution of Officers ...... 30 The Llanelli ...... 96 Distribution of Warrant Officers ...... 32 Gilbert Priddy - 100 Not Out ...... 97 Honours and Awards ...... 33 Walk On Wales 2016 ...... 98 Battalion Training South Wales Police Charity Boxing Event ...... 99 Contemporary Operating Environment Force ...... 34 Regimental Veterans Officer Report ...... 101 From Platoon to Staff Officer ...... 40 Exercise Immediate Response ...... 42 Welsh Guards Association Mortar Platoon Cadre ...... 45 Secretary General’s Report ...... 103 Battalion Sports Branch Report ...... 103 Welsh Guards Polo ...... 46 East Glamorgan Branch Report ...... 104 Welsh Guards Boxing ...... 48 Llanelli Branch Report ...... 105 Welsh Guards Enduro Team ...... 57 London Branch Report ...... 105 Welsh Guards Officers’ Mess Ski Trip ...... 59 Merthyr Tydfil Branch Report ...... 106 Mont Ventoux Cycling ...... 60 Midlands Branch Report ...... 107 Exercise Welsh Pyrenean ...... 60 Branch Report ...... 107 Adventure Training Montgomery and Branch Report ...... 109 1st Battalion Ski Trip ...... 64 Round the Island Race ...... 66 North of England Branch Report ...... 111 Bavaria ...... 67 North Wales Branch Report ...... 113 Regimental and Battalion Events Ogmore Branch Report ...... 114 St David’s Day ...... 68 and West Glamorgan Branch Report ...... 116 Pembroke Town Rallies Again ...... 69 Welsh Guards Reunited Branch Report ...... 118 The Oratory School CCF Inspection ...... 70 Welsh Guards Association Darts and Shoot ...... 124 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visit ...... 71 Annual General Meeting ...... 126 HMS Prince of Wales – Affiliates’ Day ...... 72 Forecast of Events ...... 129 Centenary Wood at Coed FFos Las ...... 74 Remembrance Sunday 2016 ...... 75 In Memoriam ...... 130

Front Cover: Guardsman Watters, Lieutenant Lewis and Sergeant Hedges in the Cemetery at Saint Charles de Percy. Back Cover: The Battalion Boxing Squad, Household Champions 2016.

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Major General R J Æ Stanford MBE, Regimental Lieutenant Colonel FOREWORD

he past twelve months have seen a period of success as well as change for by the Regimental Support Team in North Tthe Battalion, the Band and the Regiment more broadly. The only constant and South Wales, addressing the medical in the Army of today is change and we can expect to see more changes in the downgrading of Guardsmen and reducing coming months as the structure known as is refined to enable the the numbers leaving. All this takes a lot of Army to field a properly structured war fighting division. work which often goes unrecognised behind the scenes but without it we would The current Army structure is not an Intelligence, Surveillance and not survive. optimised for this especially when new Reconnaissance (ISR) Company. A huge Another aspect of Regimental life which cutting edge equipment comes into amount of training has taken place to merits comment, is the depth of talent that service in the coming decades. This will ensure the right people are trained on a currently exists in the Regiment. A Field have an effect on the Battalion and I am wide range of vehicles and weapons as Marshal, three serving Major-Generals, confident we will be the beneficiary; more well as learning the tactical drills such a nine Lieutenant Colonels of whom three of this once we know the detail of any battalion requires. In order to achieve this are presently in command, three other announcements. There are also potential a great deal of time has been spent on Lieutenant Colonels already selected for changes ahead for the terms and exercises on and elsewhere, future command, three Lieutenant conditions of service for our men, and including in Kenya for No 2 Company, Colonels at the Advanced Command and potentially women, in the future. There is a Slovenia for Battalion Headquarters and a Staff Course and a strong pack behind degree of uncertainty at the moment Combined Arms Simulated Training (CAST) must bode well for the future of the surrounding the future accommodation in Germany. All this hard work will Regiment. The same is true of the model, the package for new joiners and culminate, and be tested, in Jan – Mar 2017 Sergeants’ Mess where we have the potential for flexible employment of on EX WESSEX STORM. Amongst all this considerable strength in depth with three some description. Uncertainty is never field training I am delighted the Battalion Regimental Sergeant in key welcome but we must modernise our has found time for a considerable amount appointments. We should never be method of employment, to a degree, and of sporting and adventurous training complacent but this tally is a very healthy we can be assured that the Chief of the activities which add a very important General Staff is very closely engaged in all one and reflects really well both on those element to the ‘moral component’ and of these programmes and will ensure we get individuals and the Regiment. course help retention. On top of all the the best offer possible. focus on the tactical issues of conversion The Regimental Band remains at our core In the last 12 months the Battalion has the Battalion has kept a very close eye on and a flagship for us in ways that others converted to become a Light Mechanised manning levels; they are not as robust as cannot achieve. Despite a never-ending Battalion equipped with the FOXHOUND we would like and a lot of effort has been workload across the year, they remain ever vehicle and restructured the orbat. No 3 expended in all aspects of this from cheerful and fiercely Regimental. They Company is no longer a Rifle Company but recruiting, where we are very well served continue to be one of our best assets and

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proud to be so. They represented the the use of the internet and social media, or Officer) continues to do enormously Regiment, and the nation, at Thiepval to a combination of both, which Welsh valuable work across the Regiment in commemorate the anniversary of the Guards Re-United do so well. Mention of welfare and other forms of support. We are Somme on 1 July and they had a very the Association would not be complete very grateful for all he does for us and I successful trip to and New without the Offa’s Dyke walk organised by encourage you to read the article he has Zealand. We have much to thank them for Jan Koops and Dai Graham held in written in this issue which covers what he and we are lucky to have the Senior June culminating in to has done in the past year. As a Regiment, Director, Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Roberts, remember the 34th we continue to make a considerable as one of our number. The Band is kept Anniversary. Although never billed as a amount of grants to those in need very busy with daily as well Walk on Wales 2, it nevertheless saw wide amounting to many, many thousands of as excellent support to Regimental events participation and raised funds for the pounds. I would like to thank all those who as much as they can. They have had a good Welsh Guards Charity. My congratulations have helped to raise funds this year for the year and deserve our thanks for all they do to all who took part, particularly the small WG Charity; your support continues to for us. band who did the entire walk; my thanks make a considerable difference. again to Jan Koops and Dai Graham for We continue to have a very good affiliation I also want to thank the Association another great achievement. Trustees, the Branch Presidents and with Worshipful Company of Drapers who Our Cadet Detachments in Wales and in Committees for all their work and have done so much for us and who England remain an important part of the enthusiasm in helping to keep our continue to do so. We are very fortunate to Regiment and we must continue to nurture Association going as the organisation it is. have their friendship and support and we them. The Regimental Recruiting Team, They are the glue that keeps our veterans look forward to inviting them to various under Sergeant Jury, does a lot to support together, without them we would not have Regimental/Battalion events in 2017. them, as does the Battalion. I am delighted the seventeen branches we have. It is good Alan Peterson, who has done so much to Finally I would like to express my thanks to to see the Association continues to have an support the Regiment these last few years, the Regimental Trustees who do so much annual battlefield tour to Hechtel and NW agreed to be an Honorary Colonel ACF for the Regiment, nearly all of it unseen and excellent also that the Llanelli Wales as a Welsh Guardsman. He has gone and entirely voluntary. They have Branch organised its own branch trip to about his role with his usual gusto and significant responsibilities ensuring that and as well. I also greatly enthusiasm and we are already seeing the not only do we fulfil our charitable appreciate what Major Charlie Carty, fruits of his work. We must not lose sight of objectives as laid down by the Charities Chairman of the Swansea Branch, does in the cadets’ special value to the Regiment. Commission, but also that our financial and organising annual trips back to the legal standing is watertight and we remain Our Regimental Veterans Officers, Jiffy Falklands for our 82 veterans. I hear a viable and prosperous charity. Our Myers, (the former Regimental Casualties nothing but positive feedback for these Trustees are all former Welsh Guardsmen, journeys and I know that for many they or the wife of one, and they are at the very have found solace from visiting the Islands We should never be heart of the Regiment always providing in peaceful times. The Association remains complacent but this tally excellent advice on a range of issues as a hugely important part of the Regiment’s is a very healthy one and well as looking after serving and retired DNA and whilst it faces challenges, we reflects really well both Welsh Guardsmen in many and varied must try hard to ensure its continued good ways. We owe a great deal to them and on health, whether this is through traditional on those individuals and the Regiment’s behalf, deserve a real vote structures or realising new ones such as the Regiment. of thanks from us all.

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Lt Col DWN Bevan MVO, Commanding Officer 1st Battalion FOREWORD am writing this foreword on my laptop in a barn complex on a crisp Forces and thankfully we have been able ISalisbury Plain. In the surrounding buildings and woods the Companies are to regularly support their training events, quickly replenishing their combat supplies after last night’s deliberate attack often taking our Light Mechanised equipment and vehicles with us to give the and preparing their fighting vehicles for a long and complex advance to cadets first-hand experience of them. contact. This is a battalion preparing for Readiness in 2017. Elsewhere in Surrey, we have been involved in supporting local Armed Forces The first year of our second centenary has utility in today’s security environment. and commemorative events and our been dominated by the Battalion’s As well as training ourselves, the Battalion sports teams have managed get a foothold conversion to Light Mechanised as has been heavily involved in supporting in local fixtures. Welsh Guards boxers are part of 11 Infantry Brigade. This is a other units’ training, particularly those in conducting joint training sessions with marked change from the , tunics 11 Infantry Brigade. With large teams local youth clubs and our footballers are and Light Role of London District. It has deploying to Kenya and to support demonstrating their prowess with local involved re-structuring the Battalion to its teams. Army 2020 ORBAT, training roughly a third major test exercises and smaller teams of snipers, driving instructors, chefs etc. of the Battalion to drive and command the Thanks to the generosity of the trustees, providing training support to other various Light Mechanised vehicles, and sport is a very healthy part of life. exercises, we are certainly gaining training the Companies how to operate For the last few years, an increasing range additional opportunities sharpen our skills, and fight from these diverse platforms, of sports has been offered to the Battalion, albeit with the added nights out of bed. I procured for operations in . many of which have been proposed by the make this point to further illustrate how The training has been necessarily Guardsmen themselves. The take-up has busy the Battalion continues to be, with its progressive and demanding and seen the been amazing and as a result Wednesday focus having switched from state Battalion go through a series of exercises afternoons are dedicated to sports ranging ceremonial and public duties to Light ranging from live firing on Salisbury Plain from rugby to rock climbing to endurance Mechanised operations. It is even more so to conducting combined arms staff motocross to road-cycling, although the when one considers our current stand-by planning in Slovenia and Germany. It is latter seems to be the preserve of the older commitment to security in London. testament to all our soldiers that they have members of Battalion. There has been real met the significant challenges and Whilst conversion has been our main competitive success too, with the Welsh demands of conversion with such focus, the Battalion has been concurrently Guards boxers winning the Household characteristic . The esprit de corps conducting both Defence and Community Division Championships, the sailing team efficiency, determination and drive that the Engagement. To kick start our new finishing high up in the Round the Island Guardsmen are demonstrating on this relationship with Indonesia and South East Race and Blue Red Blue Cup, the cross- current exercise are candid proof that 1WG Asia, the completed an country runners collecting numerous has grasped the Light Mechanised skills intensive tour of the region which, medals and the polo team winning at the and are rapidly developing, through according to Her Majesty’s Ambassadors HAC. With the standard of skiing improving testing and adjusting, what is ostensibly a and High Commissioners in the area, so much from the Battalion’s annual spring new capability; one which has significant hugely impressed all those who heard ski trips, the Battalion is also sending a ski them play, not least as they performed in team to the Infantry Championships – their tunics and bearskins through the there is space for more silverware. Indonesian summer heat. The pace of life in The pace of life in Battalion is relentless, Battalion is relentless, Closer to Pirbright, the Companies have but there is a real sense that we are doing but there is a real sense been deepening our ties with our local something worthwhile. And with communities in Surrey Heath, Runnymede Readiness comes the promise of adventure that we are doing and Spelthorne. These areas are fortunate and the Guardsmen certainly have the bit something worthwhile. to have so many enthusiastic Army Cadet between their teeth.

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THE PRINCE OF WALES’S COMPANY Y Ddraig Goch Ddyry Cychwyn - The Red Dragon Gives a Lead

Maj Spencer Smith Gdsm Collins Lt Gill Gdsm Davies 74 2Lt Razzall Gdsm Durkan 2Lt Ross Gdsm Dyer WO2 Peters Gdsm Fisher CSgt Bick Gdsm Griffiths 10 Sgt Edwards Gdsm Goddard Sgt Evans Gdsm Hackney Sgt Jayne Gdsm Hall Sgt Sale MC Gdsm Harty Sgt Skitt Gdsm Howells 1 Gdsm Hunt LSgt Carr Gdsm Jackson fter a year of celebration, 2016 promised a period of LSgt Davies Gdsm Jones 97 Areflection and some hard work in preparation for the LSgt Dove Battalion’s new role as Light Mechanised Infantry. Gdsm Knill LSgt Greenman Gdsm Kropacek It is worth mentioning the LSgt Jones 78 the Company started their Gdsm Lapping closing lines from last year’s conversion to become a Lt LSgt Jones 91 article which spoke of the Gdsm Lewis 22 Mech Battalion, with the LSgt Pickersgill-Jones impending deployment to the inevitable focus on driver Gdsm Manning . Much to the LSgt Rutledge training. This required a huge Gdsm Manfield joy of our families we did effort from every member of LCpl Allport Gdsm Mortlock indeed make it back in time for the Company and especially LCpl Divavesi Christmas, and to top it off the those younger Guardsmen Gdsm Murphy 04 LCpl Frost deployment was hugely who only just received their Gdsm Murphy 38 beneficial to all who went. Not provisional licences. Many a LCpl Harris Gdsm Nabukebuke only did they make the most of man found himself becoming LCpl Henneberry Gdsm Namakadre Onion Ranges, but the an accomplished driver of a 7 platoons took every tonne vehicle, despite the fact LCpl Kirui Gdsm Petrakis opportunity to conduct they had only started driving LCpl Love Gdsm Rice battlefield tours, visit the local earlier in the year. LCpl Lovell Gdsm Philips 65 wildlife and build relations Since 2015 the Army has been LCpl Lucas with the RAF – whilst putting Gdsm Philips 10 placed on standby to provide their Typhoon pilots through LCpl Morgan assistance to the civil Gdsm Robins the bayonet assault course! LCpl Noyes Gdsm Singleton authorities under the banner In January we said goodbye to of Op TEMPERER. The Prince of LCpl Roberts 72 Gdsm Sture Lt Gill for a short detachment to Wales’s Company found LCpl Whiles Gdsm Thomas 07 JCTTAT in Shorncliffe, he themselves as the lead LCpl Williams Gdsm Thomas 76 deployed to the Kingdom of element for the Battalion and Saudi Arabia as the Ops Offr for were on 12 hours’ notice to Gdsm Campbell Gdsm Ward a Short Term Training Team. move for much of January and Gdsm Ceesay Gdsm Watkins Meanwhile back in Battalion February. This inevitably had

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1. Foxhounds on Excercise. 2. The Prince of Wales’s Company, Onion Ranges, Falkland Islands. 3. The Battalion Shooting Team in Action.

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an impact on what training we returning home at the end of could undertake and how far July. No sooner had 3 Platoon we could travel, but 2Lt Ross returned home then 2 Platoon made up for these restrictions deployed to Belize. They had by leading the Battalion been chosen to support the Shooting Team through final exercise for the Platoon numerous competitions. Division, something we have done Despite conflicting tasks the regularly over the years. On team performed with aplomb this occasion though, the at the 11 Brigade competition exercise did not go to plan and qualifying for the 1 Div competition and then duly it turned into a real-time qualified for the Army Shooting hurricane relief effort in Competition at Bisley. They support of the Belizean deserved to bring home some authorities. Fortunately the silverware, but on this occasion situation was less serious than it was not to be. However a the initial estimate and the greater prize is for the taking exercising managed to 1 by investing in the spark of deploy for the final few days of interest that has been their time in country. harboured and commitments In September the Company permitting, we will compete in returned from summer leave 2017 hoping for success again. revitalised and ready for a busy As the year progressed we autumn of back-to-back picked up an increasing exercises. Both Prince of number of external tasks and Wales’s Company and Number overseas deployments. The 2 Company had the same first of which was Ex TWIN training objectives so it was TOWN. This CT1 exercise in decided that they should pair Sennybridge gave us the up throughout September and opportunity to integrate with 3 conduct their CT1 training in R WELSH for the first time since tandem. This was done over a 2014. The Reservists arrived en period of 4 weeks in Elizabeth masse Saturday morning and Barracks Pirbright, on conducted a number of Longmoor training area and advance to contacts Salisbury Plain. throughout the day. 2 The final piece of the Lt Mech A quick re-ORBAT followed by conversion was developing our night recces on the enemy SOPs which formed the first positions, set the conditions for week of our CT1 training. This a deliberate dawn attack to was supported by the advisory round the weekend off. team from The Armoured Concurrently 3 Platoon were Vehicle Training Advisory Team attached to 1st Battalion (AVTAT), who helped us with all Guards and the teething problems that deployed to Kenya on Ex emerged as we got to grips ASKARI STORM. The Battalion with the new vehicles. This in are now veritable veterans of camp training was followed by the Askari Storm exercises, but a joint deployment to the opportunity to return there Longmoor covering both once again was welcomed by mounted and dismounted all members of the Platoon. As training serials. With a new ever the final days of the vehicle to operate from, came a exercise gave them the chance new challenge and it was great to complete some fantastic to see the Guardsman adventure training before immersed in the training and 3

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On this occasion though, the exercise did not go to plan and it turned into a real-time hurricane relief effort in support of the Belizean authorities. helping to develop the SOPs Battalion has not been we have used since then and mechanised for well over a will take forward into 2017 and decade and most, if not all of the beyond. corporate knowledge regarding With the Indian summer passing mounted operations has been the first week of October bought lost. It is perhaps because of the with it an autumnal snap, perfect compressed ‘exercise season’ weather for field firing. Battalion that we find ourselves in a good Headquarters kindly assisted the position to tackle the rest of the companies throughout, by year head on. At the time of providing the range staff and G4 writing we are in the final days support to ensure we could fire before we deploy on exercise to unhindered. Despite a wet and Salisbury Plain and Germany, windy start every man went both exercises are the validation down the range, culminating in a of this year’s hard work. The big simple, but effective platoon test comes in January next year attack. 4 when we deploy on Ex WESSEX As the year draws to a close it is STORM, until then the Plain worth reflecting that the beckons!

1. WO2 (CSM) Peters. 2. The FUP. 3. Welsh Guardsman, PCD Students and Staff provide in Belize. 4. As Above. 5. The Final Day of Ranges. 6. Company Leaguer on Longmoor. 5

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NUMBER TWO COMPANY Gwyr Ynys Y Cedryn - The Men of the Island of the Mighty

Maj Mathieson Gdsm Dean Lt Campbell-Schofield Gdsm Deemer Lt Elletson Gdsm Duval Lt Lewis Gdsm Evans 32 2Lt Minihan Gdsm Goodwin WO2 Cope Gdsm Harriss-Jones CSgt Heath Gdsm Heeps CSgt McEvoy Gdsm Jacobs Sgt Bennett Gdsm Jenkins 80 Approaching to receive the President of . Sgt Green Gdsm Jones 94 Sgt Hedges Gdsm Kalis his reporting period has seen Number Two Company demonstrating the diversity of the . In the Sgt Jones 51 Gdsm Kissiedu T final months of 2015, the Company mounted guard at the LSgt Davies 35 Gdsm Lamb Royal Palaces, exercised the freedoms of and LSgt Frowen Gdsm Lewis 85 Newport, provided a guard of honour at Brookwood LSgt Knill Gdsm Miotti Cemetery for the unveiling of a new Great War memorial LSgt Millins Gdsm Mulready and received the President of China in the Buckingham LSgt Small Gdsm Nagata Palace quadrangle as part of a State visit. LSgt Tancock Gdsm Parry 12 Around this, the entire The final weekend of standby LSgt Williams 43 Gdsm Patel company enjoyed ten days of was used for a group back to basics green soldiering LCpl Campbell 78 Gdsm Payne paintballing trip in Woking. on Thetford Training area as Sport and adventure training LCpl Duffell Gdsm Pickering part of the Battalion Battle also featured in the LCpl Gassama Gdsm Poole Camp. programme. Three members LCpl Jones 57 Gdsm Powell This allowed the platoons time (Guardsmen Coombs, Prothero LCpl Gurung 04 Gdsm Prothero away from camp to focus on and Sullivan) of the Company LCpl Koranteng Gdsm Rowlands 47 their core business and take guaranteed themselves a the time to embed the recently white Christmas by LCpl Lewis 39 Gdsm Rowlands-Bell arrived new Guardsmen. The volunteering to be part of the LCpl Morgan 14 Gdsm Sullivan following week, the Company Battalion skiing team for LCpl Okeke Gdsm Taylor moved to Sennybridge to Exercise FROSTED BLADE. compete in a very wet, cold LCpl Parry 91 Gdsm Thomas 59 Guardsman Coombs loved and demanding Leuchars Cup. skiing so much that he Gdsm Adamson Gdsm Thomas 61 The final lead up to Christmas returned to France two weeks Gdsm Al-Ekely Gdsm Todd saw the Company switch focus later to take part in the Scots Gdsm Bilkey Gdsm Trow again to training to support Guards ski trip with Lance Gdsm Brace Gdsm Turner the Metropolitan Police in the Sergeant Hughes 34 and event of an increase in the Guardsmen Adamson, Gdsm Caswell Gdsm Williams 07 security threat in the capital. Mortlock and Rowlands. Gdsm Carter Gdsm Woods Ranges were hastily booked, Concurrently, the Second in Gdsm Couling Pte Kwateng mandatory training swept up Command, Lieutenant Alsop and briefings, visits and gained a place in the Guards rehearsals conducted. Cricket Club team for their tour

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of South . Continuing his Commonwealth soldiers. adventurous streak, Lance Victory was achieved in the Sergeant Hughes 34, with Battalion March and Shoot Lance Jones 57 event in May with Lieutenant gained a place on a Grenadier Lewis’s team gaining first Guards parachuting event in place. This was followed up by Netheravon. McEvoy’s team winning the pace-sticking with As the Battalion handed in Lance Sergeant Small awarded Home Service Clothing and the prestigious “best sticker” moved from London District to prize. 11 Brigade in January 2016, the Company experienced the first In June we executed the stage of the re-orbatting second phase of the Battalion required for our new Light re-orbat. This saw the 1 Mechanised Infantry role. movement of twenty-five Our small group of machine junior members of the gunners moved to Support Company move to the new Company and we gained a Number Three Company and complete platoon from Support Company in time to Number Three Company. undertake their respective Shortly after this, with support cadres. from the rest of the Battalion, Upon completion of our the Company deployed to conversion courses, attention Kenya. Our role was to play the switched to learning to use the Contemporary Operating vehicles tactically. The run-up Environment Force (enemy) for to summer leave involved a lot 1st Battalion The Royal of low-level training so that we Rifles on Exercise ASKARI were able to come together 2 STORM. Please see the separate collectively in September both article for the detail. mounted and dismounted. In After a successful seven weeks amongst the Company range in the sun, the return to a mild week in Hythe, a 60mm mortar spring in Pirbright was most cadre, mandatory annual welcome. Leaving Lieutenant training serials and an Campbell-Schofield behind as underslung range, the temporary Operations elements of the Company also Officer for the took part in Walk on Wales, the Training Unit Kenya, our drivers World Pacesticking and commanders began competition, supported the converting to the Foxhound state opening of the Welsh vehicle for our Light Assembly and a Woodland Mechanised role. Trust World War One project, 3 This ran alongside ranges, team medic courses, the basic 1. Warrant Officer Class Two (Company Sergeant Major) radio users cadre, language Owen and the memorial courses, a trip to the Welsh sentries at Brookwood National Opera, cadet force Cemetery. inspections, quarter guards for 2. Sergeant Bennett teaches several senior officer visits, Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear drills supporting the Women in during Battle Camp, Thetford Ground Close Combat Study, Training Area. the Regimental 3. Sergeant Marsh at the start of commemoration in Saint the Leuchars Cup, Sennybridge. Charles de Percy as well as a 4. Guardsman Carter conducts maintenance training during multi-cultural day run by the the first Foxhound drivers’ Padre with our Foreign and course. 4

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commemorated the Battle of Lance Sergeant Hughes 34, the Somme as part of wider to the Training Wing and Army efforts, a 160 Brigade Reconnaissance Platoon battlefield tour, and a respectively. We welcomed leadership day at Her Majesty’s Lance Sergeants Green and Ship Victory. Small from Guards Company, Catterick, Lance Sergeant Fresh back from summer leave, Frowen who transferred from preparation for collective the and Lance training events began. Ranges Sergeant Tancock from were run, orbats were Headquarter Company. scrubbed and deployability Sergeant Green, after was the watchword. promotion, is now platoon Simultaneously, Lieutenant sergeant of Number Four 1 Campbell-Schofield took part in Platoon. the Battalion Headquarters exercise in Slovenia, At the time of writing we will IMMEDIATE RESPONSE. shortly return to Salisbury Plain September saw the Company for Battalion-level collective start Light Mechanised build- training and then Germany to up training. First stop was support Battalion Longmoor for eight days, split Headquarters in the Combined between dismounted and Arms Staff Trainer. We have mounted. The Company Exercise WESSEX STORM firmly refreshed basic skills and in our sights and we look began to understand the way forward to readiness in 2017. in which vehicles adjust every aspect of soldiering. Following this were three glorious days 2 spent live firing up to platoon level on Salisbury Plain. Routine moves in and out continued at key stages of the year. Before Christmas, Lieutenant Martin moved to Machine Gun Platoon and was replaced by (now Lieutenant) Elletson. 1. Lance Sergeant Hughes 34 and After Kenya, Company Jones 57 ready Sergeant Major Owen for parachuting. swapped posts in the Training 2. Lance Corporal Campbell 78, Sergeant Marsh and Lance Wing with Company Sergeant Corporal Dimmock at the Major Cope. Colour Sergeant world premiere of the Welsh 3 Scarf moved to the Regimental National Opera’s production Careers Management Office ‘In Parenthesis’ at the Wales Millennium Centre. and was replaced by Colour Sergeant McEvoy and then 3. Battalion March and Shoot winners. Harriss-Jones, Lance Colour Sergeant Heath. Corporal Gurung, Guardsmen Lieutenant Alsop now Thomas 59 and Adamson, commands the Anti-Tank Lance Sergeant (now Sergeant) Platoon. Lieutenant Campbell- Green, Lieutenant Lewis, Guardsmen Smythe, Taylor Schofield has handed over and Brace and Sergeant Number Four Platoon to Hedges. Second Lieutenant Minihan 4. Battalion pacesticking and is now the Second in champions: Colour Sergeant Command. This year also saw McEvoy, Sergeant Hedges and Lance Sergeants (now the move of Company Sergeants) Green (best overall stalwarts, Sergeant Marsh and sticker) and Jones 51. 4

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1. Lieutenant Lewis, Sergeant Hedges and Guardsman Watters at Saint Charles de 3. Guardsmen closing with the Percy cemetery. enemy during dismounted 2. Second Lieutenant (now training in Longmoor. Lieutenant) Elletson, Lance 4. Foxhound camouflage and Sergeant Small and concealment. Guardsmen Sullivan and 5. Live firing in Hythe. Turner with the Regimental Adjutant and the rest of the 6. As above. group before they began their 7. Members of Number Two journey along Offa’s Dyke for Company at Her Majesty’s Walk on Wales 2016. Ship Victory. 7

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NUMBER THREE COMPANY Fy Nuw, Fy Ngwlad, Fy Mrenin - My God, My Land, My King

Maj Mulira LCpl Williams 60 Capt Evans LCpl Williams 22 Capt Webster LCpl Williams 32 Lt Alsop LCpl Williams 54 WO2 Lawman LCpl Worthington WO2 Hughes 62 Gdsm Bamsey 24 CSgt Lewis Gdsm Bamsey 70 CSgt Parry Gdsm Bodden-Edwards CSgt Griffiths 42 Gdsm Boswell CSgt Davies 96 Gdsm Davies 82 CSgt Evans 31 Gdsm Davies 37 Sgt Brereton Gdsm Davies Sgt Cummins Gdsm Dade Sgt Crew 1 Gdsm Dudley Sgt Urch Gdsm Emmanuel he last six months of 2015 saw a busy period of State Sgt Jones 73 Ceremonial and Public Duties and low level training Sgt Cunningham 76 Gdsm Evans 37 T for the Iron Men. Sgt Lewis 88 Gdsm Evans 16 LSgt Chambers Gdsm Faulkner They approached it with their course. The event was LSgt Clowes Gdsm Felton typical professionalism and contested by platoons from LSgt Divers Gdsm Fitzgibbon good humour, even after the across the Battalion but was LSgt Deeks Gdsm Grimshaw rigours of the Queen’s Birthday won by 8 Platoon commanded LSgt Forde Gdsm Godsall Parade. In the background ran by Lt McNeil-Love and LSgt LSgt Hughes 34 Gdsm Howard the constant battle of Bladon. Second place was won LSgt John Gdsm Howells preparing for conversion to by 7 Pl under Lt Lewis and Sgt LSgt Millins Gdsm Hudson Light Mechanised Infantry, this McEvoy, meaning a clean LSgt Parry Gdsm Jones 13 mainly consisted of getting sweep for the Iron Men. The LSgt Robinson Gdsm Jones 71 Guardsmen the right driving standard of performance is not LSgt Powell Gdsm Jones 73 licences and was steered by only testament to the high LSgt Sterling Gdsm Jones 84 CSM Griffiths 96. In November standards set by all in the LSgt Viavialevu Gdsm Koch-Perry the Company deployed to Company, but also to the LSgt Williams 91 Gdsm Locke Thetford for CT1. This was with unbreakable bond felt by all in LCpl Adams Gdsm Mason the aim of preparing the the Company. This has been LCpl Agu Gdsm Matthews Company for the Leuchars Cup true throughout its history, but shortly afterwards. CT1 was a LCpl Assare- Beddiako Gdsm Meredith was felt more than ever due to LCpl Buretini roaring success, with training Gdsm Morgans the imminent reorbating of the LCpl Butler ably directed by Company Gdsm Morris Battalion. LCpl Davies 44 Second in Command Gdsm Moseley LCpl Dimmock Lieutenant JR Farmelo. The The reorbat would involve the Gdsm Openda LCpl Dunn hard work done in Thetford rapid and deep transformation LCpl Everett Gdsm O'Leary bore fruit on the Leuchars Cup. of Number Three Company LCpl Forgan Gdsm Phillips This was an arduous 24 hour from a rifle company to an LCpl Jones 89 Gdsm Richards patrols competition on intelligence, surveillance and LCpl Kigotho Gdsm Roe Sennybridge Training Area in recognisance (ISR) company in LCpl Muteti Gdsm Self difficult weather. It involved order that the Battalion meet LCpl Mitchell Gdsm Soko numerous stands including a the layout of a Light Protected LCpl Moriarty Gdsm Thomas 00 vehicle recovery with mass Mobility Battlegroup. As a LCpl Retallick Gdsm Walker casualties, a CBRN serial, an result, the men of Number LCpl Roos Gdsm Williams 45 ambush, a platoon attack, and Three Company would be split LCpl Sandison Gdsm Williams 25 culminated with an assault up and sent to other

16 NUMBER THREE COMPANY NUMBER THREE COMPANY WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

Companies in the Battalion, manning until men were with a lucky few remaining moved around the Battalion in Iron Men. All those in the June. Company were naturally June saw the Company really saddened that it was to be spring into life again with all 4 their company chosen for this platoons given a massive uplift fate, but it gave them huge in man power. The Company drive to ensure the Company was to be headed up by Major finished the year strongly. This JJS Mulira MERCIAN, with WO2 is evident in the superb Lawman as CSM and CSgt performance in the Leuchars Davies 96 as Company Cup. Central to the transition was the Officer Commanding, Quartermaster Sergeant. The Major TJ Badham. All those in Reconnaissance Platoon was 2 the Company were convinced taken over by Capt TAG Evans that Number Three Company and CSgt Evans 31. The Anti very healthy position. The fishing team, with both WO2 was not being consigned to Tank Platoon by Lt OFA Alsop continued development of Lawman and himself representing the Battalion in a history, but was evolving into a and CSgt Lewis 29. CSgt Parry niche capabilities gives the 48 competition in November. specialist company with niche 95 was to join the Sniper Battalion a serious edge with Platoon later in the year on roles. Any Guardsman that Ex WESSEX STORM and a The next 12 months hold many wished to remain an Iron Man completion of his stint as readiness year approaching. opportunities and challenges could do so, if he were to pass Company Quartermaster These capabilities will continue for the Iron Men, however one of the necessary cadres Sergeant to the Platoon to be honed on CT2 training given the promising start made run by the Reconnaisance, Anti Commander’s Division at IBS and CSTTX in Germany before since reorbating, and the age Tanks, Sniper or CIS platoons. Brecon. Finally the CIS Platoon the end of 2016. old determination and sense of was taken over by Capt JWB As a result of this all in the Out of work, the Company humour Three Company Webster, on his return from ITC Company kept their chins up continues to throw itself into Guardsmen, they will no doubt and saw the remainder of 2015 Catterick, and WO2 Hughes extra-curricular activities and rise to them with ease. out with real style and pride. who joins the company from sport. LCpl Moriarty (Recce) Major Badham left the the 1st Battalion Coldstream was the pride of the Battalion 1. Recce Pl looks on as the 3 Coy company for pastures new to Guards. The next priority was with a stunning performance competes in the Bn Pace assume the post of Military to run the respective cadres in the Sticking Competition. Assistant to DCOM CJITF-OIR in necessary for selection into Boxing Championships and 2. Sgt Cunningham issues vehicle CES prior to Excercise. Kuwait. any of the aforementioned continues to be involved with 3. LSgt Chambers conducting a platoons. These were to take the Battalion side. CSgt Lewis After Christmas leave, the termal soak on a possible FRV place between June and July, 29 runs the Battalion carp during the Recce PI Cadre. Company Second in Command, with the Recce Platoon going Lt Farmelo, moved to his new far and wide to Otterburn, job as Battalion Intelligence Brecon and Salisbury Plain. The Officer, a role he will thrive in. Anti Tank Platoon ran a The next six months would see successful cadre under CSgt the Company very much in a Lewis 29 and Sgts Crew, state of transition, with men Cummins and Lewis 88. This preparing to move to other took place on Salisbury Plain companies or on driving and made best use of the courses. The post of Company facilities at the Land Warfare Sergeant Major was also Centre in . The handed over from WO2 Sniper Platoon, under LSgt Griffiths 96 to WO2 Lawman. Powell, went to Otterburn, WO2 Griffiths took over the Lydd, Brecon and Warminster. position of Drill Sergeant and The CIS platoon did not still proudly sports his Iron undertake a cadre, instead Man accoutrements around focusing on in house training camp. January saw the and external courses as the Battalion officially reorbat and year progressed. move from London District to 11 Infantry Brigade, however The conclusion of all of the there would still be minimal cadres left the Company in a 3

NUMBER THREE COMPANY 17 WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

HEADQUARTER COMPANY Ofna Dduw, Anrhydedda’r Brenin - Fear God, honour the King

Lt Col Bevan Sgt Abraham LSgt Morris LCpl Scaife Maj Smith Sgt Buller LSgt Ramsey LCpl Seruvati Maj Howell Sgt Cunningham LSgt Gurung LCpl Temale Maj Hughes Sgt Davies 83 LSgt Carrier LCpl Thomas Maj Johnson Sgt Evans 88 LSgt Dove LCpl Thomasson Maj Leeson Sgt Harris LSgt Gleeson LCpl Wharmby Maj Beare Sgt Hemmings LSgt Van Eyssen LCpl Williams Capt Campbell Sgt Marsh Cpl Putty Gdsm Armstrong Capt Jones Sgt Pheasey Cpl Stanley Gdsm Adekoya Capt Marsden Sgt Lewis Cpl Gurung Gdsm Arnold Capt Ryan Sgt Soko LCpl Bond Gdsm Ankhra Capt Young Sgt Wilks LCpl Bishop Gdsm Broome Capt Brown Sgt Bentley LCpl Campbell 90 Gdsm Carter Capt Gillham Sgt Heney LCpl Glanville Gddsm George Capt Butler Sgt Gautam LCpl Kelly Gdsm Hathway Lt Farmelo Sgt Gurang LCpl May Gdsm Hawkridge Lt Richardson Sgt Jessey LCpl Price Gdsm Morgan WO1 Taylor Sgt Lyall LCpl Mottram Gdsm McLaughlan WO1 Healy Sgt Burrows LCpl Roberts Gdsm Little WO2 Morgan Sgt Wallace LCpl Selby Gdsm Logan WO2 Ridgeway-Buckley Sgt Vickers LCpl Picton Gdsm Philips WO2 Griffiths Sgt Townsend LCpl Bacon Gdsm Rowlands WO2 Geen LSgt Barnes LCpl Broome WO2 Owen LSgt Biggs LCpl Brown 88 Gdsm Theophilus WO2 Edwards LSgt Devine LCpl Emmings Gdsm Watson WO2 Harriman LSgt Hillier LCpl England Gdsm Williams 07 CSgt Deren LSgt Horrell LCpl Jackson Gdsm Williams 62 CSgt Jefferies LSgt Jones 09 LCpl Kuchu Cfn Adam CSgt Parry LSgt Lucas LCpl Lapita Cfn Hope-Parry CSgt Scarf LSgt Morgan 65 LCpl Lowther Cfn Lill CSgt Treharne LSgt Stevens LCpl Towwnsend Pte Arthur-Nyarkoh SSgt Douglas LSgt Peinaar LCpl Meekcoms Pte Gurung SSgt Reason LSgt Williams 05 LCpl Mahlangu Pte Wainwright Sgt Rogers LSgt Coldrick LCpl Ratchford Pte Hannah SSgt Potter LSgt Montgomery LCpl Proctor Pte Francis

18 HEADQUARTER COMPANY WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE HEADQUARTER COMPANY

the year. In addition to this long accountability and care. The standing commitment the pace of life is rapid and the men department supported No. 2 in the Platoon have worked Company’s deployment to hard to support the conversion Kenya as COEFOR and the to Light Mech, Support Prince of Wales’s Company’s Weapons Cadres and Company trip to Belize to support the level exercises. When not Platoon Commander’s Battle supporting these activities, Course. The whole department RAAT and normal department have worked tirelessly during routines take place. With all this this busy year, particularly Sgt going on, a twisted sense of Buller and LSgt Foody. humour helps to prevail. There has been a major The calm guiding natures of reshuffle of personalities within Capt Butler, CSgt Parry 64 and CQMS HQ Coy, CSgt Derren delivers a perfect punch at the Household the QM department. Major Sgt Evans 88 have enabled the Division Boxing Competition. Pridmore handing over MT Pl to fight through the grey Quartermaster to Major mist and produce a high e have seen two Company Commanders move on Hughes and RQMS (M) Williams standard and service. It’s fair to 205 who promoted to WO1 and Wfrom HQ Coy in the past year. We said goodbye to say the MT Platoon has moved to Sandhurst as New achieved a great deal during Major Karl Dawson who was selected to teach at the Land College Regimental Sergeant Warfare Centre on the JOTAC and Captains’ Warfare 2016. They have passed the all- Major. We have welcomed Capt important inspections such as Courses. Major Darren Pridmore has moved aside for Campbell as Quartermaster the LSI and ECI due to sheer Major Frankie Howell () to prepare himself for Technical, RQMS (M) Morgan hard work and effort during his ICSC(L) course starting in January 17. 10, Cpl Putty and Pte Gurung such demanding times. In the into the department. background, Capt Butler has With the personality changes Derren has settled into the G4 been managing the Household and a busy forecast of events, world from the Mortar Platoon. The new role of Light Division Boxing Team and HQ Company has tackled the He led the way in July during Mechanised Infantry has set getting them ready for fight challenges in 2016 and is fully the Household Division boxing some challenges for all of the night against the Parachute focussed on the events that lay competition. He was the oldest departments in Headquarter ahead in 2017. contender and he fought Company. Not since the Regiment. This year we have courageously but was narrowly Battalion had the infamous seen the departures of CSgt CSM Geen has the privilege of beaten on points by his Scots Saxon vehicle have we seen the Hughes, Gdsm Rowe, Gdsm being the CSM but also the Guard opponent. MT Platoon work flat out on Williams 02, Gdsm Williams 62 Company 2ic. Warrant Officers license acquisition, vehicle and Gdsm George. that have completed a tour of It has been another busy year CSM HQ will know the for the Quartermaster’s challenges of accounting for Department supporting the The new role of Light Mechanised the departments during day to Regiment on numerous varied day barrack administration. It and diverse activities. This Infantry has set some challenges for has been tackled with a calm began with Op TEMPERER over all of the departments in Headquarter approach and most importantly the Christmas period which has a sense of humour. CQMS continued to run throughout Company.

HEADQUARTER COMPANY 19 HEADQUARTER COMPANY WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

1

The acceleration has been felt Battalion’s small arms and low-level skills of radio units and promoting the trade. keenly in the Royal Electrical and support weapons. communication, vehicle Every member of the Mechanical Engineers Light Aid movement drills, establishing Department has deployed on Since completing REME-specific Detachment. Despite camouflaged harbour locations various taskings. The first collective training over a week substantially growing in size and tactical repair. quarter of the year saw the on Longmoor training area in over the last twelve months the chefs deploying to Kenya to May 2016, it has been all hands The training meant that as the influx of over forty new support various units on Ex to the pump to develop fitter sections deployed Foxhound, Husky and RWMIK Askari Storm and some low level alongside their companies for vehicles and a demanding competence on the new the first time on Exercise training exercises. Our chefs schedule of platform and vehicles - both as operators and Ledbury Hunt, they were well took the lead for the Beating of collective training, the vehicle maintainers – and provide the prepared for the challenge of the Retreat cocktail parties. LSgt mechanics in particular have equipment availability to allow supporting the companies as Montgomery was selected to been feeling the pinch. The the Battalion to train. The they conducted their first represent the Army at the Tri- , too, have been busy, exercise on Longmoor was a service Annual Catering good opportunity to run out the mounted collective training deploying to all parts of the UK exercise since the early-2000s. Competition of which she came Company fitter sections and LAD in support of live firing ranges Integrating fully with the away with Silver Best in Class Headquarters to practice the using the full breadth of the companies allowed a number award. Our Chefs have been of early vehicle-related issues to taking part in various sporting be resolved apace and avoided events such as the cycling trip to equipment downtime the Pyrenees and Ladies Corps interrupting training; it also Football and RLC Rugby. reinforced tactical lessons The AGC Det has had a busy and learned earlier in the year. The varied year. All hands were LAD is now looking forward to called to the pumps for the deploying en masse for annual G1SI which resulted in a Battalion-led collective training strong green pass. Numerous and demonstrating readiness to members of the detachment deploy on operations by attended and passed several supporting the Welsh Guards CLM courses and most of the Battle Group, with all its juniors attended Land Rover GS attached arms, in 2017. conversion and BRU courses. Along with normal Battalion life The RAO, Maj Leeson, LSgt Van and routine commitments the Tonder, LCpl Lotter and LCpl Kirui chefs have been far and wide participated in the AGC Triple supporting various Reservist Crown which involved a 12 mile 2

20 HEADQUARTER COMPANY WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE HEADQUARTER COMPANY

3

X-Country march with 15 Kg The PT staff headed up by SSgt and a shoot at the half way Rogers have delivered well- point. They came a very credible constructed PT and catered for 24th out of the 120 teams who all numbers and abilities. The entered. LSgt Dove and LCpl regime of three sessions of PT a Lotter both attended and week has seen an improvement passed the 8 week All Arms PTI in fitness, wellbeing and weight course in and are now loss in some cases. LCpls regularly taking Coy PT sessions. Campbell 90 and Price have kept a keen eye on attendance LSgt Coldrick has been selected and sweat levels whilst for promotion to Sgt and moves encouraging the Company to to 3 Med Regt in Preston. The break down their physical Det Comd 2Lt Richardson barriers. It is a proven fact that promoted to Lt and was aerobic exercise can decrease awarded a D Pers Admin levels of tension and improve Commendation for his excellent self-esteem. The PT sessions work throughout the year. Sgt have certainly done that in most Gurung won the AGC Squash cases. Plate and LSgt Van Tonder won the novice category. On the AT As an Irish Guardsman front, the RAWO, WO2 Harriman, commanding a Welsh Guards organised a highly successful Company, it comes as no cycling trip to the French surprise how easily I have Pyrenees Mountains which was settled into the Battalion. The both challenging and great fun ethos of the for all participants. Pte runs in all of our veins and, Castledine, LCpl Lotter and LSgt although we may think we are 1. The LAD preparing vehicles for Dove attended a 5 day multi all different, we are very alike in CT2 Training on Salisbury Plain. activity package in the Isle of many ways across the Division. I 2. CSgt Parry & LSgt Pienaar not Wight and had a great time. Life am looking forward to my time quite worked out they are continues to be busy but fun for with the Battalion and all the ringing each other. 3. Pte Castledine, LCpl Lotter and all members of the 1WG AGC challenges and the banter that LSgt Dove sailing off the Isle detachment. lie ahead. of Wight.

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SUPPORT COMPANY Nac Ofna Ond Gwarth - Fear Nothing but Disgrace

Maj Figgures-Wilson LCpl Price Gdsm Lewis Capt Smith LCpl Purvis Dmr Maund Lt Martin LCpl Ryan Gdsm Macedru 2Lt Colley LCpl Siviter Gdsm Mitchell WO2 Davies LCpl Siwale Gdsm Murton CSgt Vuevueika LCpl Skates Gdsm Morgan CSgt Young LCpl Wolfendon Gdsm Mwelwa DMaj Johnson Dmr Asamoah Dmr Njie Sgt Evans Gdsm Bastable Dmr Parry Sgt Howells Gdsm Burchill Gdsm Qaranivalu Sgt Thomas Gdsm Brown Gdsm Rees LSgt Davies Gdsm Canavan Gdsm Rees LSgt Davies Gdsm Casey Gdsm Riby LSgt Griffiths Gdsm Ceesay Dmr Roberts LSgt Hill Gdsm Charles Gdsm Rowlands 75 LSgt Kirumira Dmr Davies Gdsm Robinson LSgt Parr Gdsm Davies Dmr Sarpak LSgt Parfitt Gdsm Davies Gdsm Shields LSgt Rowlands Gdsm Dennis Gdsm Smith LSgt Reeves Gdsm Edwards Gdsm Stott LSgt Sheppard-Smith Gdsm Evans LSgt Shapland Gdsm Harding Gdsm Tavaga LCpl Alport Dmr Hillman Dmr Thomas LCpl Crowley Gdsm Healy-Roberts Gdsm Twose LCpl Evans Gdsm Jones Gdsm Waqanisaravi LCpl Hughes Dmr Jones Gdsm Watts LCpl Howells Dmr Jones Gdsm Weaver LCpl Kemp Gdsm Jones Gdsm Watters LCpl Mathews Gdsm Korosaya Gdsm Woodman

22 SUPPORT COMPANY WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE SUPPORT COMPANY

016 has been a fantastic year for Support Company. It 2has seen the Company finish off Public Duties in style and then switch fire across to the new exciting role of Light Mechanised Infantry.

Having recently taken the same day we welcomed command of the Company, the Machine Gun Platoon from I must say thank you to Maj the Rifle Companies. This saw Andrew Dunlop for his hard the Coy reduce from over 140 work over the majority of the men to now around 90 men. year and I am sure he will join The first task for the new me in saying a big thank you to format of Sp Coy was to deploy CSM Davies 03 who has been a a large proportion of the constant balance to both of command team to Kenya to our “good ideas”. The Company support the 2RGR exercise. This 1 has had a number of saw Maj Dunlop lead the PRT number of Guardsmen and Battalion who were competent individuals who have worked and develop the live ranges to Lance from the Rifle with the light role GPMG and extremely hard over the year to test the Ghurkha Battalion. The Companies. Capt Smith and his took them on to the next level. promote. They are listed below: deployment was a great test Platoon planned and delivered By the end of the cadre the 25106903 WO2 Davies for those who deployed. It saw a testing yet enjoyable cadre Platoon were live firing off the the newly qualified CSgt Young for all members of the Platoon. RWMIK’s and bouncing around 25118754 CSgt Vuevueika execute his first Mortar ranges. This cadre culminated in the the training area conducting 25157883 DMaj Johnson Those who did not deploy Platoon live firing and all tactical actions in the vehicles. were thrown straight into the members of the Platoon The future of the Platoon is 30124753 LSgt Reeves driver training and all the passing the annual tests. This very bright and the young 25224394 LCpl Skates testing that it required. has set the Platoon up for commanders are looking to success not only on Ex Wessex take this capability to the limit. The start of the year saw the The driver and commander Storm but also for those who It will be very exciting to see Coy tackling the final parts of training has seen the Coy attend the Mortar courses at the MG PL firing the Battalion Public Duties. They worked worked extremely hard, having the Support Weapons School. in with a mixture of HMG and extremely hard up to the last not worked with vehicles since GMG. Guard and there certainly was the “good old Saxon days”, we The Machine Gun Platoon a big sigh of relief at the end of have had a lot to learn. The deployed to Knook camp. This 1. Support Company Vehicle the last Guard. The last 3 years Guardsmen have now been was the first proper guns cadre Ranges. of Public Duties have seen the trained to drive a 12 ton for a few years. The cadre took 2. The Mortar Platoon on Coy as a whole work extremely armoured vehicle around the those members of the their Cadre. hard making sure the standard roads of Surrey. A scary in London was to the required thought after a proportion of level, whilst ensuring that we them were barely able to drive remained a capable Support a car 12 months ago. The Weapons Company. The Guardsmen and Junior putting away of the Bearskins Commanders have grasped signalled the signing for this new role by the horns and vehicle documents. are relishing the new challenges and capabilities at January saw Sp Coy change their disposal. from the old version many of us have known, to the modern For the middle part of the year version we now have today. the Coy deployed on the We said goodbye to the Anti- specific weapons cadres. The Tank, Reconnaissance and Mortar cadre was run on Sniper Platoons who moved Salisbury plain. This saw the over to Number 3 Company. On Platoon receive and train a 2

SUPPORT COMPANY 23 SUPPORT COMPANY WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

1. The Machine Gun Platoon on their Cadre. 2. LCpl Crowley on his Plant Course. 3. The Corps of Drums on Indonesian Breakfast TV. 4. The UK Tri-Service massed Bands demonstrating the Arrow Head. Crown Copyright 2016.

1

The Assualt Pioneers have experienced some very good retained the Corps of Drums parties. Hopefully this role as well as developing the becomes a more regular new capability. Drum Major occurrence for the Corps and Johnson has worked extremely will see them maintain a high hard on getting every member level of musical ability. At the of the assault pioneers through very least they will be able to their relevant courses. This has seen Drummers, who have play Happy Birthday very spent a large proportion of well!!! their life playing music on the The back end of the year has forecourt of Buckingham seen the Coy up the level of Palace, now explosively preparation. We have had entering a building or clearing about 20 people deploy to a mine field. This not only shows the ability of the Belize for a month to support Guardsmen and the quality we the Platoon Commanders recruit but the true diversity of Battle Course, the Battalion has the Guards. The Platoon this conducted CT1 field and live year has had 2Lt Colley from 3 training. The culmination of 2 Royal Welsh attached to be the this training in 2016 will be the Platoon Commander. This has Battalion CT2 package which been a great success with him will see the whole Company learning the ropes as a Pl deploy to Salisbury for 10 days. Comd as well as helping the This will prepare and set us up DMaj with some of the for success in 2017 when we challenges of Comd. 2Lt Colley will leave us post Wessex Storm have the mountain to climb of in 2017 an we will wish him Ex Wessex Storm and the year well on his future military being sat at readiness. All you career, be that in the Reserves can say is what a change a or attending RMAS on the year makes, January we were regular course. standing on the Forecourt to A small group of Drummers November and standing on the went to South East Asia to training area with over 30 support the Queen’s birthday vehicles and getting down to celebrations. They saw most the nitty gritty of proper countries in the regions and infanteering again. 3

24 SUPPORT COMPANY WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

BAND OF THE WELSH GUARDS

Lt Col Roberts LCpl Judd

WO1 Burton LCpl Libby

WO2 Bailey LCpl Dilley

CSgt Hancock LCpl Bannister

CSgt Hunter LCpl White

CSgt Gregson LCpl Wood 4 THE ROYAL EDINBURGH Sgt Farnworth LCpl Lockwood DOWN Sgt Fomes LCpl Ramplin UNDER Sgt Gardner Musn Morgan Fanfare for the Future Musn Sam Miles Sgt Johncock Musn Watt he Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an event which Sgt Mercer Musn Geldart Tcaptures the attention of audiences around the world. In the many years that performers have participated in Sgt Blue Musn Laws the Tattoo it has only taken place overseas on three previous occasions. Sgt Llewellyn Musn Philp February 2016 saw the Tattoo Armed Forces. It promised to Sgt Evans Musn Coleman tour for the first time to be a show of pomp, ceremony Melbourne, Australia and and pageantry, an LSgt Williams Musn Stowell return to Wellington, New unforgettable experience for Zealand. The event was a all who took part. LSgt Dawson Musn Miles unique opportunity for the The weeks preceding the to Tattoo saw the band travel to LSgt Browett Musn Mason join forces with other military Portsmouth for joint rehearsals bands from the UK, with the Band of Her Majesty’s LSgt Lightfoot Musn Johnston international groups, and (Royal Band) and representatives from the the Band of the LSgt White Musn Finney Australian and College. Under the direction of LCpl Wing Musn Salter ...thunderous applause ringing in our ears as LCpl Llewellyn-Jones we finally marched off, blinded by thousands of camera flashes.

BAND OF THE WELSH GUARDS 25 BAND OF THE WELSH GUARDS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

big entrance into the packed arena. Our high level of professionalism and flair shone through as we wooed with our impeccable display, thunderous applause ringing in our ears as we finally marched off, blinded by thousands of camera flashes. It was a moment we will treasure for many years to come. The second leg of the tour took us to picturesque Wellington, New Zealand. A stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains and sea greeted us as we moved into intensive rehearsals in the compact Westpac Stadium. We were 1 fortunate to experience the the Principal Director of Music, Saturday 6 February dawned effectively and add the traditional Haka greeting from Royal Marines (Lt Col Nick early for the Band as it began finishing touches to our display the local Maori group Grace) we started intense the 23-hour journey to before we transferred to the performing in the show, the musical rehearsals. Rehearsals Melbourne, a short stop off in cavernous Etihad Stadium in massed UK bands returning the greeting with traditional then moved to the drill square provided a welcome the centre of town. A life-size song in fine voice! where the Tri Service Massed break from the long flight. On replica of Edinburgh Castle arrival in Melbourne and after Bands worked to perfect their created a stunning backdrop to Undeniably the Westpac a good night’s sleep in our drill. The marching display was rehearsals there, skilfully re- Stadium provided a much university accommodation we not without its challenges, in created by local craftsmen. more intimate space for the made our way to Moonee show, the open roof revealing particular the extended line At last it was time for our first Valley Racecourse to begin the glittering stars of the and arrowhead formations, performance. There was a three days of rehearsals. The Southern Hemisphere as we requiring every team member tangible feeling of tension and venue provided us with performed for the masses. As to have absolute confidence in excitement in the Band as we enough space for all the cast the last show drew to an end, their movements. members to rehearse waited backstage to make our the lone piper honoured those fallen in battle with an evocative lament. As we started our 32-hour journey back home to the UK we could reflect on what had been the trip of a lifetime for many in the Band, from packed stadiums, exploring two very different but fascinating cities and the chance to bring the magnificence of the heart of British ceremony to the people of Australia and New Zealand.

1. Performing between the Australian Army and Navy Bands for the Finale. Crown Copyright 2016. 2. The Full Cast During the Finale at the Etihad Stadium. Crown Copyright 2016. 2

26 BAND OF THE WELSH GUARDS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE BAND OF THE WELSH GUARDS

THE NATIONAL COMMEMORATIVE EVENT TO MARK THE CENTENARY OF THE LCpl Liz Libby

THE FA CUP FINAL 2016 he Band of the Welsh Guards was greatly privileged to Musn Leslie Stowell Tbe involved in the Centenary Commemorations for the Battle of the Somme at Thiepval, France on the1st July he Band of the Welsh Guards performed at the 2016 2016. TFA Cup Final, contested between Crystal Palace and United at Wembley earlier this year. Rap This was the national importance of the event in artist, Tinie Tempah, singer Karen Harding (of X-factor commemorative event for the which they were to play a part. Battle of the Somme, which fame) and the NHS Choir joined the Band to perform to a The night before the saw the largest loss of life in commemorative event an all- crowd of over 90,000 fans. British war history, with an night vigil service took place, estimated 1,000,000 men The Band travelled to the Roberts, invited several with selected personnel taking stadium a few days before the members of the crowd to being killed or wounded during the battle. twenty-minute watches on the Final to take part in the rather conduct or to participate in memorial in silence; complex rehearsals and the various pieces– causing Arriving in France on the 27th honouring the fallen. The Vigil performance was to include something of a media surge. June, the Band started included all nations that fought marching alongside, and Prior to kick-off, the Band preparations for the event and and lost lives in this battle and through, dancers and flag participated in the build-up settled into the was a poignant start to the bearers to a rap track by Tinie sequence on the pitch, before accommodation in a French centenary event. Tempah, before performing taking centre stage to await Barracks over an hour from the National Anthem and the The Band of the Welsh Guards the arrival of the teams. Tinie Thiepval. Arriving at Thiepval traditional Abide with Me. lead the Guard of Honour - Tempah gave a great on the first day of rehearsals, Number 1 Company 1st On match-day, the Band performance before the NHS one is always taken aback by Battalion Irish Guards - out to arrived and shortly afterwards Choir joined the Band for a the magnitude of the beautiful start the service. The Band had marched out to perform to the moving performance of Abide memorial and of the previously provided incoming crowd. This included with Me. The set concluded thousands of gravestones and background music for the huge The Great Escapeand Brasilia in with the National Anthem, crosses that cover the congregation of 10,000 front of the statue of Bobby sung by Karen Harding, after cemetery. The memorial was including Royalty and senior Moore. The Director of Music, which the Band marched off to built at a point where the dignitaries from around the Lieutenant Colonel Kevin huge applause from the crowd. strongest hold of the German Army was based, before the world. The French Guard of French and British troops Honour - provided by Saint-Cyr, attacked uphill and fought the French equivalent of RMAS bravely to eventually win the Sandhurst – represented the land. Many members of the French soldiers and their Band took time to pay their performing respects in between rehearsals some impeccably played and reflect upon the French music.

BAND OF THE WELSH GUARDS 27 BAND OF THE WELSH GUARDS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

The Thiepval Memorial. Crown Copyright 2016.

With the congregation seated with the Morriston Orpheus 'Abide with Me' on solo piccolo Anthem, a huge honour to play and the Guard of Honour in Choir to perform 'Keep the whilst walking through the with a world class orchestra. place, we awaited the arrival of Home Fires Burning' while battlefield. A solo tenor singer Paul Hughes, General Manager members of the Royal Family, footage from 1916 was shown then took the second verse and of the BBC Symphony led by the HRH The Prince of on the screens set either side the Band, conducted by Orchestra wrote to the Senior Wales and the HRH The of the memorial. This was Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Director of Music after the Duchess of Cornwall. They arguably the most moving part Roberts, joined in for the event: "It was a huge privilege were greeted by the President of the event and there were remaining verses which the and pleasure to work of France, the British Prime many tears shed by the huge congregation sang. alongside you at the Thiepval Somme event. My admiration Minister, the President of the audience as film from the era The Royal Marines provided for what you and your Irish Republic and a former was shown. Love letters, the Last Post for the two musicians do knows no bound. President of Germany. diaries and letters home were minutes’ silence, the slow Amazing." High praise also all recited to draw evocative falling of the red and blue The march ‘Voice of the Guns’ came from senior military images and recreate the poppies showing British and led the Guard of Honour off to personnel and the BBC feelings and thoughts of the French allegiance. Wreath stand vigil by the gravestones Producer and FCO event soldiers caught up in the laying at the foot of the cross in and crosses and to attend the organiser for the part the Band events of 1916, some of which front of the memorial was then gun salute, which involved played in the event. ‘La were delivered by descendants followed by solo piper, LSgt guns used during Marseille’ concluded a moving, of soldiers at the Battle of the Ryan Wilson (IG) lamenting from the British and French emotive service, reminding Somme. The choir de Laree 'The Battle of the Somme'. Armies. The service then those present of the atrocities Francais then sang 'La continued with readings Brass players from the Band of war and the sacrifices of Madelon' to further images written by men and women were then required to join with individuals and nations, captured from the time. involved in the Battle of the the BBC Symphony Orchestra believing that this was the war Somme. The Band joined forces Musician Max Mason led to perform the British National to end all wars.

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RRRRP SpecialSpecial ooer:ee :r £3£30 £20 + pp&p + p&p Cќљіћȱђюћȱ Foreword by HRH The Prince of Wales

Order before 1st September 201 and pay ay only £20 + £5 per copcopy py for postage ag and packapackaging. Fill in the order form below and return with a cheque made out to ‘Welsh‘WW Welshelsh Guards ds Band TTradingradinng account’ un to : ee BandB and acaccountant,cccouo nttanant, Ban Bandand of tththehe WWeWelsheelllssh GuarGGuards,uaarrds,ds, WWeWellingtoneellinllinngggtttoon BBarracks,arrracacckkks,s, BBirdcageirrdddcacaagggee WWaWalk,alk, London,Londdoon, SSW1EW1E 6H6HQHQQ ForoF r fuffurtheru ehetr enquiries:iesriunqr ies: EEmaiEmailmai [email protected]@hobol ottmail.mai ccoom TTeTelephoneeellleeepp noh e : 020 20 7414 3275 27

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Email::limaE TTeele l e p hhop o n e ::neho WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

DISTRIBUTION OF OFFICERS

DISTRIBUTION OF OFFICERS as at 1 January 2017

REGIMENTAL HEADQUARTERS Colonel-in-Chief Her Majesty The Queen Colonel of the Regiment His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales KG KT GCB OM AK QSO PC ADC Regimental Lieutenant Colonel Major General R J Æ Stanford MBE Regimental Adjutant Colonel (Retd) T C S Bonas Temporary Captain M J Wright Assistant Regimental Adjutant Major M Browne BEM Director of Music Lieutenant Colonel K F N Roberts MMus FLCM LRSM psm CAMUS 1st BATTALION Lieutenant Colonel D W N Bevan MVO Commanding Officer Major E S Mathieson Second-in-Command Major T C Spencer-Smith Officer Commanding The Prince of Wales’s Company Major G C Charles-Jones Officer Commanding Number Two Company Major J S Mulira MERCIANS Officer Commanding Number Three Company Major F W Howell IG Officer Commanding Headquarter Company Major B J Figgures-Wilson Officer Commanding Support Company Major A L Hughes Quartermaster Captain J P Marsden Adjutant Captain J M Young Operations Officer Captain J W B Webster Regimental Signals Officer Captain A Campbell Technical Quartermaster Captain T A G Evans Officer Commanding Reconnaissance Platoon Captain O F A Alsop Officer Commanding Anti-Tank Platoon Captain A J N Smith Officer Commanding Mortar platoon Captain M Butler IG Motor Transport Officer Captain J J Jones Unit Welfare Officer Captain L Ryan Regimental Careers Management Officer Lieutenant J F Z Martin TBC Lieutenant J P Gill Second-in-Command The Prince of Wales’s Company Lieutenant T Campbell-Schofield Second-in-Command Number Two Company Lieutenant J Lewis Officer Commanding Machine Gun Platoon Lieutenant P Razzall Platoon Commander Prince of Wales’s Company Lieutenant G Elletson Platoon Commander No 2 Company 2nd Lieutenant L Colley RWELSH Assault Pioneer Platoon Commander 2nd Lieutenant C Ross Platoon Commander Prince of Wales’s Company 2nd Lieutenant E Anderson Platoon Commander Prince of Wales’s Company 2nd Lieutenant T Minihan Platoon Commander No 2 Company 2nd Lieutenant W Clarke Platoon Commander No 2 Company 2nd Lieutenant E Scott-Bowden Platoon Commanders Battle Course 2nd Lieutenant F Ruscombe-King Platoon Commanders Battle Course

30 DISTRIBUTION OF OFFICERS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION OF OFFICERS

EXTRA REGIMENTALLY EMPLOYED

Major General R H Talbot Rice CBE Director, Land Equipment, Defence Eqpt & Sp Major General B J Bathurst CBE GOC London District and Major General Commanding The Household Division Major General R J Æ Stanford MBE GOC Regional Command Colonel G A J Macintosh OBE Advisor Royal Jordan Army Lieutenant Colonel B P N Ramsay OBE Commanding Officer 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, Catterick Lieutenant Colonel G R Harris DSO MBE SO1 Parliament, MOD Lieutenant Colonel G C G R Stone Commanding Officer ATR Lieutenant Colonel N Mott MBE Staff Quartermaster, ITC Catterick Lieutenant Colonel H G C Bettinson Morpheus Dep Project Manager, MOD Lieutenant Colonel J D Salusbury Advanced Command Staff Course Lieutenant Colonel M L Lewis Chief of Staff 101 Logistic Brigade Lieutenant Colonel C T Sargent MBE OP SHADER, Kuwait Lieutenant Colonel H S Llewelyn-Usher Advanced Command Staff Course Lieutenant Colonel T A Smith Chief of Staff School of Infantry Major T J Badham SO2 Off Pol CA/Dev, Army HQ Major A J Salusbury OC Senior Division, IBS Brecon MajorJ W Aldridge SO2 Contest Asia, MOD Ops Dir Major J D Livesey MOD A Block Major C J P Davies SO2 Media, NATO Rapid Deployable Corps, Major A F Bowen SO2 Flex Engt System, MOD Major K Dawson SO2 DS, JOTAC and CWC, LWS, Warminster Major D Pridmore ICSC (L) Major C H L Beare ICSC (L) Captain C S N Fenton ICSC (L) Captain E R Emlyn-Williams SO3 G7, Anti Tanks, Sp Wpns School, Warminster Captain A L Major Adjutant ITC Sp Bn Captain T W J Hutton Extra Regimental Duty Captain A W Budge ADC GOC London District Captain D Luther Davies SO3 G2/G3 Ops Offr BATUS Captain M Pollard MTO, 1RRF Captain M J Wright Assistant Equerry to HRH The Prince of Wales Captain J O Dinwiddie 2IC Pathfinder Company, 16 Air Asslt Bde Lieutenant M R C McNeil-Love EX LONG LOOK New Zealand INFANTRY TRAINING CENTRE CATTERICK Lieutenant E J Clarke Platoon Commander Lieutenant T W S Evans Platoon Commander

DISTRIBUTION OF OFFICERS 31 WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION OF WARRANT OFFICERS

DISTRIBUTION OF WARRANT OFFICERS AND BATTALION STAFF AS OF 1 JANUARY 2017

REGIMENTAL HEADQUARTERS Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant 25018575 WO2 SA O’Brien REGIMENTAL BAND Band Master 25085276 WO1 RD Burton Band Sergeant Major 24710515 WO2 K Bailey 1ST BATTALION Regimental Sergeant Major 25050230 WO1 C Taylor Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant (Main) 25044310 WO2 D Morgan Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant (Tech) 25061898 WO2 M R-Buckley Drill Sergeant 25096596 WO2 A Griffiths The Prince of Wales’s Company 25088682 WO2 S Peters CSM Number Two Company 25102725 WO2 D Cope CSM Number Three Company 25062354 WO2 N Lawman CSM Headquarter Company 25075959 WO2 J Geen CSM Support Company 25106903 WO2 D Davies Regimental Signals Warrant Officer 25074462 WO2 DK Hughes EXTRA REGIMENTALLY EMPLOYED RSM New College RMAS 25020405 WO1 C Williams RSM 24921250 WO1 E Griffiths RQMS MTMC 25036627 WO2 G Williams UWWO Infantry Battle School 25038700 WO2 M Parry CSM RMAS 25067519 WO2 M Parry Training Warrant Officer Pirbright 25066690 WO2 A Davies LONG SERVICE LIST ACIO Wrexham 24623898 WO2 RJ Brace

32 DISTRIBUTION OF WARRANT OFFICERS WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

HONOURS AND AWARDS 2016

COMMANDER OF THE ORDER OF THE Major General RH Talbot-Rice

MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE Major K Dawson

NATIONAL DE LA LEGION D’HONNEUR Alfred Hunt

LONG SERVICE AND GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL 25018575 WO2 SA O’Brien RQMS RHQ 25102725 WO2 D Cope CSM No 2 Company 25111462 Sgt Buller G1098 Stores 25127109 Sgt AP Mercer Regimental Band 25067668 LSgt Stevens RD Staff 25135065 LSgt Morgan Welfare NCO 25135135 LSgt Williams Accomodation NCO 25136042 LSgt Barnes Ammo NCO

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BATTALION TRAINING

1 Contemporary Operating and 1st The Queen's Dragoon drive out the British Army Guards provided a platoon for ( and the remainder of Environment Force - Exercise force protection. a notional 11 Brigade), the African Union and anyone else With the Battalion having been ASKARI STORM 2/16 who stood in our way. through ASKARI STORM in late Major E S Mathieson 2014 and some members of Before that began we had the Officer Commanding Number Two Company the Company returning to opportunity to conduct a week Kenya for their third or fourth of bespoke company training st Battalion Welsh Guards completed the latest round time, all ranks relished the in the splendour of Ol Maisor, 1of State Ceremonial and Public Duties in January 2016 opportunity to approach the where we were hosted by the and moved from London District to 11 Brigade. Shortly exercise from the other side. local landowner. Deploying afterwards, Number Two Company took part in Exercise We felt that Shannon's Maxim with fifty-six members of ASKARI STORM 2/16. ("the enemy knows the Number Two Company and system") would be both an thirty-one from the rest of the This rotation was to see two fraternity were represented. advantage and disadvantage. Battalion, this week allowed us relatively unusual occurrences. Number Two Company played Understanding British military to consolidate the basics Firstly, the exercising Battle the Contemporary Operating doctrine, tactics, techniques before we were at the disposal Group was 1st Battalion The Environment Force (the and procedures would allow of the British Army Training , deploying enemy), B (Rorke's Drift) us to anticipate the Gurkhas' Unit Kenya. from . Secondly, all three Company, 1st Battalion The action. However, it would also elements of the newly Royal Welsh provided the potentially make us established Welsh Combat Gurkhas' third rifle company complacent and stop us from 1. The Company Group arrives in Kifaru Barracks, Nairobi as it truly exploiting the freedom transitions to the exercise. Most days we were also treated to our we were afforded as the Sortu 2. Acclimatisation training in personal safari as Africa's finest Peoples' Army. We, as Sortu the early morning with the (Ethiopia) soldiers, had invaded Gurkhas. paraded past our harbour and ranges. Jela (Kenya) and were tasked to 3. Live firing on Ol Maisor.

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2

1. Rehearsals before a company attack. 2. Learning to use the simulated large calibre fire support weapon systems. 3. A group receives kayak instruction at Savage Wilderness. 4. The Company’s accommodation in Camp TWIGA, Archer’s Post.

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Most days we were also Hour by using the Company treated to our personal safari Second in Command, our as Africa's finest paraded past vehicle mechanic and some our harbour and ranges. The signallers as a rogue team in week finished with live close two Hiluxs behind enemy lines. quarter battle shooting by Once all the excitement was night and a beer in the field to over and the kit had been celebrate Saint David's Day. handed in we enjoyed five This important date also days adventure training at brought good news for Lance Savage Wilderness. This Corporals Davies 35, Davies 89 allowed controlled and (Support Company attached) supervised fun as a suitable and Williams 43 who all closure to our time in Kenya. promoted to Lance Sergeant. Three lessons stand out from After two administration days our time as enemy. Firstly, in Laikipia Air Base (East), one sometimes seemingly random of which was used for an courses of action work out and Equipment Care Inspection, the pay off. Sensibly adapting what Company moved to Archers is taught in training can be Post. This week was a three- very productive. Specifically, way rotation for the Battle we experimented extensively Group with companies moving with task organisations to between live firing, defence create mobile manoeuvre and an enabling phase. The groups, multiple fire support latter two were our groups and exploited vehicles responsibility and we enjoyed much more than normal. full battle procedure to give Secondly, owning the night is orders, war-game and crucial. We were limited to one rehearse each phase. handheld night vision device Combining conventional per fire team and felt the doctrine with insurgent and constraint. Movement in the human-wave tactics, we dark was laborious, often sought to fully exploit gaps in painful and the element of the Gurkhas' formations. The surprise was much harder to second and third company achieve. Finally, indirect fire is a attacks saw us breach the significant force multiplier. This objective and destroy their is often overlooked in training command but the exercise forced us to The final exercise was held on use the mortar fire controllers Lolldaiga and allowed us, extensively. Most of the again, freedom to roam with casualties we inflicted were the minimal constraints. This result of accurate and allowed the Junior sustained mortaring by a 1 Commanders the opportunity knowledgeable controller who ruthlessly pursued the Gurkhas to test their assumptions about wherever they moved. what works best and adapt 1. The view from one of what they had learnt at Brecon. Lance Sergeant Hughes 34’s Our time in Kenya was observation post. Highlights of the week interesting, productive and 2. Number Two Company Group included killing the refreshing following Public at the end of the exercise – Commanding Officer during Duties. At the time of writing, Gatooma, Lolldaiga. the Battle Group attack (with a elements of the Battalion have 3. Lieutenant Colonel J Davies direct hit from a General returned to Kenya to support MBE, Commanding Officer, Purpose Machine Gun) and 1st Battalion 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles receives a Centenary disrupting the final obstacle and will hopefully find our Leek at the end of the exercise. crossing three hours before H- experience useful.

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with various mindboggling proved an invaluable abbreviations from SO3 J1 JHF experience and excellent (K) to SO2 G7 OS. My job as SO3 preparation for future courses J3/5 can simply be explained and jobs. as staff captain responsible for The challenges faced by a Staff planning and operations. In Officer are very different to roles and responsibility it could those of a Platoon Commander. loosely be compared to the For example, on exercise the Operations Officer in an Platoon Commander may infantry battalion. The main battle with cold, fatigue and areas I was responsible for hunger yet still have to plan included security (working and execute a complex platoon with the force protection and manoeuvre. A staff job lacks local security), writing the physical privations but the standing orders, integration of organisational and co- new staff and the reporting of ordination challenges are incidents. equally testing. One of my first The biggest difference jobs was to organise the arrival between being a Platoon and reception, staging and Commander and a Staff Officer onwards integration for a is not commanding group of 42 incoming staff Guardsmen. As a Platoon from the . This Commander I had around 24 required the arrangement of Guardsmen to work with on a transport, accommodation, From Platoon Commander daily basis. This included security, feeding and briefing everything from physical for the group over a 3 day to Staff Officer training, discipline, welfare, period. It covered moving from By Lieutenant T R Campbell-Schofield reporting and training when in Nanyuki (BATUK HQ) in Officer Commanding Number Four Platoon/ Company camp. When on exercise, it was northern Kenya to Nairobi, Second in Command, Number Two Company, 1st Battalion to manoeuvre, position and collecting the incoming staff, Welsh Guards and SO3 J3/5 British Army Training Unit Kenya dictate the tactics of the conducting the briefings in platoon. As SO3 J3/5 there is Nairobi and then returning to aving only completed the Platoon Commanders’ no such responsibility. This is Nanyuki for further instruction HBattle Couse in May 2015 I imagined I would not be in probably the part of platoon and job handovers. Such an a staff job until considerably later in my military career. command I have missed the event had many moving parts However, in February of this year I was sent to Kenya as a most. Another big difference and involved personnel from Contemporary Operating Environment Force Platoon included the large amount of almost every department in Commander to assist 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles defence writing staff jobs BATUK. Matters were made require. Prior to working in more difficult by the fact many Battlegroup. Kenya, I think I had looked at staff members were on post- After this I found myself sat work, security meetings and Joint Service Publication 101 exercise leave when I began behind a desk in Headquarters defence writing! In this article I (Defence Writing) only a planning this. It was a handful of times and thought it rewarding event to run and British Army Training Unit hope to explain the differences was the preserve of Majors and made me aware that when it Kenya as SO3 J3/5. Having and challenges of staff work above. In the three months I compared to those of platoon comes to staff work, the devil spent six weeks charging spent as a Staff Officer I found really is in the detail and that command. around the savanna with myself using it every day. Such while it is good to trust, it is Number Two Company and British Army Training Unit work is not exciting and is better to check. One of the menacing the Gurkhas I was Kenya Headquarters has a often time consuming and advantages of doing a staff job thrown into a world of staff whole host of staff positions laborious. However, it has at such an early stage was the

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Joint BATUK, Saracens and Nanyuki Jackals rugby on Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy. exposure it gave me to higher organising, a venue was set, troops to command or work conditions for success in many level planning and teams gathered and transport with. However, for my broader complex events or operations organisation. Prior to this the sorted. Four teams from education as an Officer it and should hold me good only meeting I had ever BATUK, 25 Flight Army Air proved invaluable especially, stead for my next job as attended was a company level Corps, the and exposure to the writing and Company Second in Command, conference. As SO3 J3/5 I a local team from the Nanyuki production of staff work. It is Number Two Company in found myself in BATUK Jackals Rugby Club took part in clear that this sets the September. conferences at least twice a a touch sevens tournament on week being asked questions the Ol Pejeta Wildlife on security by the Commander. Conservancy. To play rugby to As a Platoon Commander, I a backdrop of Mount Kenya thought very little about with Zebras grazing by the anything outside of my pitch was an incredible company but now I have a experience and the Saracens greater awareness of the inner team were very friendly and workings of a unit great sportsmen. It was headquarters. certainly not the kind of thing I thought I would end up Work ranged from the organising but definitely mundane to the bizarre. At nothing to complain about! reasonably short notice it was announced members of To conclude, being a Staff Saracens Rugby Club were Officer lacks the fun and thrills coming to climb Mount Kenya of being a Platoon and wanted to play a game of Commander. It was certainly touch rugby with BATUK. After frustrating to be bound to a a frantic few days of desk for three months with no

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Exercise Immediate Response 2016 uring September, the Battalion was fortunate to Dparticipate in a two week long joint NATO exercise which was designed to help cohesion between its member forces, show that we are willing to commit and

1 participate to aid other members and also as a show of force to prove that NATO can work and co-operate effectively as a multinational force.

Amongst those taking part which had a vast collection of were members from Slovenia, vehicles and weaponry from Croatia, Macedonia, Hungary, 1939 through to the more the United States and of course modern systems used in the the UK. The Welsh Guards Slovenian War of deployed as a Light Independence. We were very Mechanised Infantry Battle ably guided around by a local Group Headquarters complete historian, who was fluent in with attachments as well as English and who gave a very in providing a number of people depth and eye opening tour on to use the computer systems to an area that few of us knew 2 act as the troops on the ground much about. The museum (LOCONs). itself is set in an old barracks and was the launch point for The journey was a long one, the spearhead of Yugoslavian although Google maps tanks during the War of suggested it would take only Independence in 1991. 14 hours to arrive, the reality was 27 hours on a coach, so Now for the main event. We one can imagine the relief that then took part in three days of was felt upon arrival. The camp our own integral training with was basic and with the planning processes as well as majority in 16 man rooms, allowing the LOCONs to space was tight. Suffice to say practice certain manoeuvres. the Officers’ room soon turned Once content, the initial into an actual Mess! The first planning process started prior 3 few days were filled with to D-Day for the initial brigade familiarisation and learning, operation, holding ground in a most notably on the computer defensive position. This was a systems we would be using as great test for us in hard terrain they were very different from and really made the planning the ComBAT terminals we are teams consider the capabilities used to using as a of the vehicle platforms that headquarters. Thankfully, the we are now operating in. We first Sunday was freed up for a were eventually set and day of exploration and cultural confident that our plan would learning. We first visited The hold back the enemy Park of Military History at Pivka (Bothnian) forces that were

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moving south to our location. It was after this first action that Unfortunately it soon became we realised the constraints clear that the brigade plan was against us in terms of the a little risky, especially with a technology the LOCONs were lack of reserve and as we using. The enemy forces could watched the digital map on the move at the same speed in screen in the tent rapidly turn vehicles through woodblocks red with vast enemy forces as they could on roads and a popping up all over the area combination of this and other we knew we were in for a good technical difficulties made the 5 scrap. The Prince of Wales’s actual fighting of the battle for Company was heavily reduced the LOCONs an incredibly by indirect fires early on in the challenging task. However we battle, which left a large gap in overcame the technical hurdles the plan for the enemy forces and re-cocked in preparation to utilise. We were gradually for the next phase. worn down to a combat effectiveness of around 25 per cent. Initially we licked our wounds and were trying to figure out how we could have done better, only to be then given the after action review (AAR) to realise that every other country’s forces had 6 been destroyed entirely 1. The Slovenian tent. leaving a pocket of 1WG to 2. Setting up 1 WG BG hold the entire Brigade Headquarters with the Slovenian tent, which defensive line. The computer was like the Taj Mahal in systems were all paused at comparison. 1700 hours, which made for a 3. Listening in to the brief at very civilised war that gave us Pivka Military Park time to partake in some PT 4. Sgt Hemmings (Int Sgt) trying prior to supper. This was to pass off as Slovenian Special Forces in the Museum shop. always a welcome change of pace and for the most part we 5. Capt Smith (Mor PI Comd), Capt Marsden (Adjt), Major made do with the facilities and Smith (Bn 2IC) and Major conducted standard circuits Pridmore (OC HQ Coy) in the caves. Major Pridmore was and sprint sessions to keep 7 ticking over. It was only mistaken for a Stalagmite a few times. towards the end of the trip that 6. A group of the Battalion’s PT was spiced up by a yoga officers (left) in awe of the session given by the Battalion Postojna caves during the Second in Command. Initially underground train journey we all thought it was a slack 7. The Second in session to relax, we were very Command showing us a true ‘Warrior’ pose. wrong! Many undignified 8. The CO explaining the control poses were struck and the pain measures to be used on the and inflexibility were a wonder final advance. ‘If in doubt, go to behold. this way...’

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The second phase was an remained at a good combat advance by the brigade to effectiveness and ready to secure crossings over a river carry on with the battle. near a large city in order to Exercise Immediate Response establish a foothold from was a great opportunity for the which to launch onto the Battalion Headquarters to enemy who had consolidated practice our planning to our north. We were to be the processes and was our first brigade reserve for the initial opportunity as a new moves and then launch into headquarters to practice the heart of the enemy position concurrent planning and after completing a forward execution of operations. passage of lines (FPOL) with It allowed us to see areas 1 the Slovenian and Croatian forces. Finally the orders came where we needed to improve through and after our second and also helped us to establish long planning cycle we had a operating procedures for plan set for the advance and certain tasks that we will no were getting into the finer doubt encounter in the future. details much more efficiently. It was a great experience to The next day we were work with other member launched but due to us being forces of NATO and to see how the reserve we had a slow start each other works and I know to the battle. However after all participants took a lot from the exercise. Although there the American battalion were frictions with technology secured the crossing points and ways of working, it was a and the Slovenian and Croatian great opportunity to work as a forces had suffered high levels multinational force and see the 2 of attrition, the Welsh Guards benefits and constraints that moved up to strike the final working under a headquarters blow. We systematically from a different country cleared our area of operations produces. (AO) although we struggled with support from brigade with their reconnaissance assets and artillery as most of them had been destroyed prior to our launch. Equally a 1. Capt Young (Ops Officer) being rumour had been passed very enthusiastic about the around that the end of the exercise. exercise was nigh, and we had 2. The Battalion Second in determined that our final H- Command explaining the planning process to the 3 Hour would be at midday on Slovakian and Macedonian the final day of simulation. At Battlegroup. 11:48 hours we noticed that 3. The Commanding Officer most of the other forces were briefing Col Wickham beginning to leave the brigade (DCOS 34th (US)) Inf Division during the exercise. chat net we were using to 4. The two sides to the Welsh communicate to each other, as character clearly demonstrated well as receiving messages during a lull in the battle. WO2 saying “Great to work with you Lawman (CSM No 3 Coy and ISTAR WO - seated),pointlessly all!!! ” the smiley face is not an ☺ optimistic about our chances exaggeration. So our final push without any form of ISTAR and lacked certain integral brigade CSgt Derren (CQMS HQ Coy - assets, however soon after the standing) in abject misery when he considers how to exercise was brought to a halt clear up the brew area on and only the Welsh Guards ENDEX. 4

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tactical live-firing package. The to utilise it. During the two- Platoon embraced the week package, the Platoon was challenge and worked hard to also able to work-out how best prove themselves with the two to pack the Husky and to live mortar Sections occupying out of it, as it lacks the trailer Mortar Lines and Harbour space of the Landrover. areas under cover of darkness Looking forward to Ex WESSEX each night. The end of the STORM there is still plenty of week saw the Platoon, work to do in the New Year and including all the new mortar- undoubtedly the Platoon will men, complete its ACMT and continue to find new ways to set itself up ready for the year utilise the new vehicle. ahead, as the Battalion The Platoon is currently in a prepares itself for readiness in strong position as it looks the new year. towards next year, with Gdsm, During the second part of the both experienced and new, Cadre, the Platoon's challenge being confident in their role 1 was to get to grips with its new and embracing the new vehicle platform, the Husky. challenges which face them. This is a large beast, but is WELSH GUARDS MORTAR currently without doctrine as to PLATOON – CADRE 2016 how it is to be employed. This Capt AJN Smith has given the Platoon freedom Officer Commanding Mortar Platoon to experiment in ideas for its Support Company employment and how it can be used to best effect. A deployment into the Deepcut 1. Sgt Thomas and his section his year has seen the Welsh Guards Mortar Platoon ready to step off on the Heavy Driver Training Area enabled a annual Cadre split into two parts, the light-role Carry Tab. T certain amount of ‘bedding-in' training and live firing, followed by another two-week 2. Gdsm Weaver practising low with the Husky and an level night drills out of the vehicle conversion and training package, as the Platoon opportunity to learn how best Huskey. gained its new vehicle platform.

This year has seen the Welsh taking the lead on ensuring Guards Mortar Platoon annual that the experienced mortar- Cadre split into two parts, the men had their knowledge light-role training and live refreshed, as well as making firing, followed by another sure the new Gdsm gained the two-week vehicle conversion knowledge required in order and training package, as the that they could pass their WHT Platoon gained its new vehicle on the 81mm Mortar for the platform. first time. With the successful completion of these lessons For the first three weeks of the and the twice-daily PT sessions Cadre, the Platoon, including (which included a 5-mile heavy 12 fresh-faced new mortar- carry - something of a shock to men, the new Platoon the system of the new Gdsm), Commander, Capt Smith, and the Platoon pushed out onto the new 2IC, CSgt Young, the Plain to conduct a 48-hour deployed to Westdown Camp dry exercise to test the on Salisbury Plain. The large Platoons' skills. number of new members meant that, for the first time in After a one-day weekend a few years, the Platoon was at (Saturday only), the Platoon full strength when it arrived in conducted its battleprep in Westdown Camp. The first ten readiness for a deployment days were fast-paced and during the hours of darkness crammed full, with the NCOs on the Sunday for a week-long 2

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BATTALION SPORTS

1 particularly amongst the non- make his debut in a combined WELSH GUARDS POLO commissioned ranks, and to side and, whilst they were by Capt J P Marsden (Adjutant) start to routinely win divisions squarely beaten, the at tournaments. With that in enthusiasm remained un- mind, the Battalion’s sports fair tempered. elsh Guards polo has gone from strength to provided some new blood and, strength over recent years and has now established The next tournament was W despite a very busy Battalion Captains vs Subalterns, played a core of dedicated players who are playing regularly forecast, Colour Sergeant Phil over a fine summer weekend, over the summer in all major military tournaments. Major Derren and two Guardsmen somewhat defined by Captain Chris Davies handed over the captaincy to Captain James went to Tidworth Polo Club for Josh Webster dismounting Marsden for the 2016/17 season with the club in good a polo course. The club gained without permission in the first shape. some highly enthused new chukka and spending the players who were capable of During the off season the club Llewelyn-Usher as Secretary. remainder of the tournament being competitive in the lower saw a restructuring and the This has allowed advice and in Southampton hospital. divisions of military establishment of a committee support to be provided and Fortunately his pride was the tournaments and, over the kindly headed up by General formalised the club's presence. main casualty and CSgt Derren course of the season, the Sir Redmond Watt as President, answered the call to play the The focus for the season was development of CSgt Derren in Major General Robert Talbot- remainder of the tournament twofold: to build on the particular was excellent. The Rice CBE as Chairman and in his stead, with the Welsh amount of players involved, first tournament; the Royal Lieutenant Colonel Henry Guards winning in one of the Artillery Cup, saw us enter an most major tournaments in the 'A' side and a 'B' side for the military calendar. Captain Josh Webster dismounting without first time. A solid first run out permission in the first chukka and spending saw the 'A' side come away The AGC Cup and exhibition with a second place to a strong match at Guards Polo Club the remainder of the tournament in HAC side. The 'B' side saw were spread over the week of Southampton hospital. Guardsman Bamidele Adekoya the August bank holiday. The

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AGC Cup saw the Welsh Guards come off the boil losing in the final to a reinforced AGC team that we had soundly beaten earlier in the season at the RA cup. However, the loss galvanised the team heading into what is always a very tough and competitive match against the at Guards. While for the first half we held our own, quality and riding experience showed through and in the second half the Household Cavalry were too strong, particularly in the ride-offs, and played to their handicap. The final tournament was Artillery 2 Company's 105 Tournament held at Ham Polo Club which the club was incredibly privileged to receive an invitation to during the season. With a Battalion deployment to Slovenia we had to field a team that had not had an opportunity to gel. Headed up by Lt Col Llewelyn-Usher with Captain Alex Major and Major Chris Fenton the Welsh Guards triumphed taking home the 105mm shell as the club's first major trophy and capping off a mixed but excellent season for Welsh Guards polo. The perennial problem with polo is finance. Final thanks must therefore go to those that enable the club to flourish. Through a combination of the generosity of the Regimental Trustees, Battalion support, the Army Polo Association through 3 Lt Col Simon Ledger, the Household Division and 1. The Welsh Guards ‘A’ Team. significant personal From l to r: The author, Capt Major, Lt Col L-U, CSgt Derren. contributions we have managed to maintain and 2. The composite Welsh Guards ‘B’ Team. From l to r: Gdsm Adekoya, an RA offr, grow the famous green and CSgt Derren and another RA offr. white renaissance on the polo 3. Capt Webster after his dismount without permission. pitch. Not smiling but screaming...

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Household Division Champions 2016 Wining Team. the potential; who would be IC of administration, LSgt WELSH GUARDS BOXING prepared to sacrifice their Lucas, had a long list of tasks to Captain Milton Butler spare time and be willing to be completed in a short time; commit themselves fully designing and ordering the ‘Winning is much sweeter when you’re the underdogs.’ towards the journey ahead. It tracksuits, competition strip, fter a very successful and exciting Inter Company was important for all involved vests, Household Division belts ACompetition, there was huge appetite for more to find the balance between and trophies, to name but a boxing within the Battalion. training and the Bn Conversion few. In all of the above he to Lt Mech Inf. exceeded expectations. We focused on keeping our Household Division Training was gathering Once we had identified the training sessions busy on Competition in April 2016. This team that would go forward, Tuesday and Thursday would give all 7 the the intensity of training evenings, as well as sports opportunity to come together increased and we utilised all afternoon on a Wednesday. in a very different environment our expertise and resources to This encouraged many other than on Horse Guards on ensure we had the winning newcomers to the sport; some the Queen’s Birthday Parade formula. From the start the of whom enjoyed the fitness and do battle against one Welsh Guards were very much and others keen to compete. another. seen as the underdogs as Welsh Guards Boxing was other regiments from across growing and we needed The proposal was accepted by the division, more accustomed something big to channel all the Major General to boxing, fancied their that enthusiasm towards. Commanding the Household Division and immediately we chances of winning and made HOUSEHOLD DIVISION BOXING got to work. We continued their intentions very clear, COMPETITION 2016 some more than others. with our evening training The aspiration was for the sessions and used this as a There was plenty more to do Welsh Guards to host a way of identifying those with other than training. The team’s

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LCpl Moriarty was adamant not to miss out and started his training whilst out in Kenya.

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momentum and soon came week and using the weekends the launch of the teams that as R&R. Each member of the would be competing in the team still had their share of Household Division Boxing duties to fill and used Turners Competition 2016. Gdsm Boxing Academy in Camberley Dennis was appointed as Team as an alternative to avoid Captain and represented the missing out on training. Part of Welsh Guards at Horse Guards the team’s final preparations to the Major General. included sparring against 4 Rifles, Engineers, Artillery and THE HARD YARDS the Army Team. Confidence The team was now training 3 - was high and all of the hard 4 times each day, 5 days a work, effort and time put in by

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SSgt Rogers and LCpl Ryan was this seriously”. All briefings, followed his lead and each keen eye for detail and starting to pay off. reception of teams and Welsh Guardsman stepping experience made sure we had officials, weigh in and medicals into the ring raised the roof. all areas covered. The final TIME TO DELIVER were completed in a result was very befitting for the TEAM FINALISTS We were now ready for the professional manner. The Household Division and prelims. SSgt Rogers and his important part of the business After a successful week of exceeded expectation. To add gym staff got to work on was due to start with Sgt Evans preliminary bouts it was clear to the excitement of the main organising and preparing the (Moose) who was first to open to all of the other teams and event; we had 6 Welsh Guard gymnasium fit for competition. the competition. With the gym guests that the Welsh Guards finalists winning 4 out of the 7 The final layout was very packed to the rafters full of were a class above the rest. bouts. impressive; it was a clear nerves and anticipation, we RQMS Morgan got to work statement to all who entered, needed a win; and he preparing the main venue at “the Welsh Guards were taking delivered. The remainder the Army Combat Centre. His

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Gdsm Harty – Lightweight Sgt Evans 07 - Light Welterweight LCpl Moriarty - Welterweight

Gdsm Dennis – Middleweight Gdsm Thomas – Light Heavyweight CQMS Derren - Heavyweight

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1. Team Captain with the winners’ cup. 2. Two-time Light Welterweight Champion. 1 2

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Before

During

End result

WINNING IN STYLE BEDDING-IN weekends saw a complete ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS transformation. Once the gym Each finalist put in a sterling We needed to relocate the A number of achievements and performance and gym; a small space in the was completed to a high spec awards have been made demonstrated real grit, vehicle sheds was soon made and to everyone’s approval, it throughout the year. The determination and courage. available and work began. For became the home for the Branch presented They showed true fighting two weeks sleeves were rolled newly formed Household LCpl Ryan with the Sports spirit and gave every Welsh up - clearing rubbish, drilling Division Team who would Person of the Year Award. He Guardsman a real sense of holes, painting and plenty of compete against the Parachute attended the annual dinner in pride. hard labour, long nights and Regiment. the Angel Hotel in

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1

2

Abergavenny and received the to grow. There is a real buzz in award for his coaching ability the gym during each sports and success. LCpl Campbell afternoon and on Tue and Wed and Gdsm Jones 94 were evenings. The door is always successful in gaining a place in open to anyone keen to learn a the Household Division Team new skill, socialise and get fit, and were selected to represent or wanting to compete. Only the Household Division against three rules apply when you the Parachute Regiment. The enter the gym; respect each Worshipful Livery Company of other, work hard, and enjoy Wales presented each member what you’re doing. We will look of the Welsh Guards team with to enter a team into the 2017 a tankard in recognition of Household Division their success in the Household Championships. The Division Competition and gave anticipated Inter Company’s is the team a cheque for £1000. promised to be much bigger This kind donation will help the team visit professional Welsh clubs and boxers, and 1. Past Master Windsor Coles OBE help to purchase kit and accompanied by Mrs Sue equipment needed to improve Hewerdine presenting the quality of training. team with their tankards. 2. LCpl Ryan receiving his Sports THE FUTURE Person of the Year Award. 3. LCpl Campbell representing Welsh Guards Boxing has the Household Division against made its mark and continues the Parachute Regiment. 3

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and much more competitive than ever before. GOAL FOR 2017 Our main goal for 2017 is to build and develop a team full of new talent; capable of competing against the best there is by entering the Army Championships and winning. "Cymru am Byth"

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CSgt Hughes at Lee Walters Off Road Training School.

always attracts a mixed bag of During the summer the WELSH GUARDS guests. As a team we are the Battalion also requested we ENDURO TEAM first team in the Infantry to provided a display for the compete at this level. families day at Elizabeth CSgt Hughes 39 Barracks, as we aren’t a display Midyear the team entered the team and don’t normally his year has been somewhat disjointed with CSgt Welsh International 3 Day provide displays the team set Hughes posted to ASLS and Sgt Simons posted to Enduro, this is part of our T about setting up a small loop HDPRCC, this has created some issues in training together annually calendar and an which included some log but hasn’t stopped the team progressing on to achieve authorised event under the jumps, tyres and a chicane banner of the Army Sports great things. through trees. The display was Control Board. The event, held well received and riders This year has been somewhat The team entered the British in mid Wales, attracts riders enjoyed showing their talent to disjointed with CSgt Hughes Enduro Championship series from all over the world. Two the home crowd. posted to ASLS and Sgt Simons this year, a series of two day days in the Welsh hills riding posted to HDPRCC, this has events around the UK testing 150 miles a day, on a time card The team still adds to the created some issues in training riders from all abilities by brings varied challenges, retention and recruitment together but hasn’t stopped means of a time card enduro. however the team are always effort with bikes often being the team progressing on to These events are popular and happy to be riding and used by the Regimental achieve great things. the Welsh Guards paddock representing on home soil. Recruiting Team in South

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1 2 3

Wales, this helps attract young The Welsh Guards Enduro Sgt Simons entered the 1. Sgt Simons Natterjack men as the sport is very Team has taken the forefront in Championships and came Enduro 2016. popular in wales. We also have setting up the first ever away with the Best Infantry 2. Welsh Guards set up at the paddocks for the Welsh 3 Day. some new riders joining us Infantry Enduro Team, CSgt Rider award. 3. Sgt Simons and CSgt Hughes’ next season. One of which is a Hughes was selected as Next season will see us bikes ready for the Welsh. Junior Soldier at the Army Chairman and our riders have compete at national level again 4. CSgt Hughes, river crossing, Foundation College Harrogate. received Infantry calling in the British Enduro Welsh 3 Day. He initially joined the army as a notices to represent the Championship and we have 5. CSgt Scarf, Welsh 3 Day. , however decided he Infantry next season. also been tasked to run next 6. Team Set up Family day set up. wished to leave due to missing year’s Army Championships 7. CSgt Scarf and Sgt Simons the sport so much, luckily we During the winter the team which the team are excited conduct a field repair on have some friendly forces in hosted 50 army riders on D1 Simons’ bike. about, this will bring great PR Harrogate who got him in and D2 for Exercise Training to the team and the Regiment. touch with the team and we Wheels, this was an army managed to get him cap event to train riders for the As ever the team are all badged and is now a Welsh Army Championships the grateful for the support we Guardsman. We also have following weekend. As D1 and receive from the Battalion and more interest from Battalion D2 are our training areas we the chain of command, anyone and look forward to were able to offer great interested in supporting or welcoming and supporting experience and knowledge to riding events please get in new riders. pass onto other riders. touch with the author.

The team still adds to the retention and recruitment effort with bikes often being used by the Regimental

Recruiting Team in South Wales. 4

5 6 7

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1. The Regimental Lieutenant Colonel, Officers, wives and girlfriends above Les Gets with Mont Blanc behind. 2. Second Lieutenant Elletson, Lieutenant McNeill Love, Second Lieutenant Lewis, Evans and Campbell-Schofield and Second Lieutenant Ross enjoying the slopes.

1

headed out into the town to We were lucky with the snow OFFICERS’ MESS SKI TRIP see what it had to offer. As the whole weekend and were 2016 expected, we found it to be a able to ski until darkness on fun town with plenty of après- Second Lieutenant G F Elletson most evenings. By the last day ski bars. Officer Commanding Number Five Platoon, everyone was able to ski Number Two Company Our evening of leisure didn’t together with those starting stop us being out on the slopes rom 21 to 25 January 2016 fifteen members of the 1st with less experience at the early the next morning to find beginning having improved FBattalion Welsh Guards Officers’ Mess, accompanied that we had been incredibly greatly due to the favourable by wives and girlfriends enjoyed a long weekend skiing in lucky with the snow. It had conditions. the French Alps. been dumping all week and had cleared up as we had In true Army fashion, our trip Once we arrived in Morzine, In all it was a great trip and arrived. The next few days started with a mini-bus we were joined by the one which we hope to make an followed a pattern of great journey. Thankfully it wasn’t Regimental Lieutenant Colonel annual occasion. It was not skiing, nice lunches and a (Major General Stanford MBE) just good for the officers too far and we set off from couple of glasses of mulled and his wife Fiona. involved but also for the wives Pirbright for Luton airport, with wine or beer before supper our ultimate destination being It was too late for skiing on the then back out in to Morzine for and girlfriends as it helped to Morzine, a lovely town in the first night so we consoled those with any energy left or enhance the family feel which heart of the Portes du Soleil ourselves with a delicious off to bed for those feeling it in the Welsh Guards Officers' region of the French Alps. supper in our chalet and then the knees a little bit. Mess is so proud of.

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EXERCISE WELSH PYRENEAN BULL 16 WO2 (SQMS) M Harriman AGC(SPS) (Regimental Administrative Warrant Officer) Participants: WO2 Harriman OIC Ex – AGC (SPS) Sgt Green WG Sgt Bennett WG LSgt Deeks WG LSgt Morgan WG LSgt Williams AGC (SPS) Gdsm Garvey WG Pte Hannah RLC

he aim of Exercise Welsh Pyrenean Bull was to cycle Tfrom the Atlantic Coast to the Mediterranean Coast in 4.5 days along the arduous Pyrenean Route and whilst doing so climbing some of the famous climbs of the Tour de France.

On Sunday the 21st August, we Tuesday 22nd August – The all returned early from First Day Cycling from Hendaye Summer Leave to embark on a to Oloran St Marie a mere 80 road trip from Elizabeth miles. The first shock of the day Barracks Pirbright to Hendaye though was after about 500m, on the West Coast of the South out of the hotel, turn right and of France via an overnight then suddenly, a cheeky 1.5 MONT VENTOUX CYCLING Ferry Journey from Portsmouth mile climb at 10% without the TRIP 2016 to Caen. After all the personal legs not even warmed up. The contribution was collected, the banter had already started, Lieutenant Colonel DR Evans MBE kit and bikes were loaded onto with the guys realising what a difficult journey they were n the 25th May 2014 Ben Parry cycled to the top of the transport. After much deliberation of which bikes about to embark on. Mont Ventoux in the south of France. At 1,912m high O were going on what vehicle Throughout the first few hours, it is considered the hardest of all the mythical Tour de and who was travelling with routines were set, with small groups being created France climbs and rightly so. whom, we set off on our way. depending on ability and The journey was long with At the time, he was probably occasions, I was wearing Ben’s natural speed. Quite clear was various stops to ensure the only functioning on one lung. cycling top. Sgt Green and LSgt Deeks had guys were fed and legs were This is a serious climb and aspirations of leading for the Both routes join at Chalet stretched. We finally arrived in Ben’s achievement was an duration, with the slightly Reynard with 6 km remaining our start location in Hendaye example of his tenacious larger framed guys taking up to the top. The last 6km is by after an 11 hour drive in France. the rear. After various determination. Sadly, as we all far the toughest part of the Priority one was room refreshment stops along route know Ben’s long battle with climb. I found it hard going allocation, followed closely by and a few bike adjustments we cancer ended in December with two lungs functioning food! This was to become a finally got to our first overnight 2015. how Ben reached the last 6km constant routine for the next 5 stop in Oloran St Marie at To celebrate Ben’s on only one lung is simply days. The food was sorted, so it quite remarkable! achievement, in June this year I was time to ensure are bikes 1. The start at Hendaye on the (Ray Evans 87) decided to go to On the second day, in Ben’s were ready and fit for purpose Atlantic Coast. Mont Ventoux and follow in memory I placed a Welsh for the next day’s cycling. It 2. Sgt Green, LSgt Deeks, Ben’s pedal steps, cycling from Guards badge given by Evans only seemed prevalent to take Sgt Bennett and LSgt Williams at the top of Col De Peyresour. Sault to the summit and again 24 on the Tom Simpson a short ride down to the sea to 3. Sir, my feet don’t reach the from Bedoin to the top the Memorial and reflected on conduct the mandatory tyre pedals. LSgt Deeks at the Top following day. On both Ben’s great achievement. dip and view the sights. of Tourmalet.

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1 about 1700 hrs. Back to stops along the route for routine, room allocation and energy gels and more water, it food time. But this time the was time for a short descent team knew who were the before the next climb, the Col snorers amongst the group de Soulor, a rest then the huge and were keen to avoid them. descent to that start of the Open choice for food after the famous Tourmalet. It was a first night of cycling was 2115 m climb to the Col, MacDonald’s for 7 of the 8. LSgt following the path of some of Williams had other aspirations the great of the Tour de France. and it was Pizza for him on his It was 18km of grinding, Jack Jones. Then, before we standing on the pedals, shirts knew it, it was bed time. open, gasping for air and working in pairs. The pecking Wednesday 24th August. Day 2 order was the same, with of Cycling from Oloran St Marie 2 courageous efforts by all the to Bagneres De Bigorre. The cyclists. Lots of photos taken at first day with big climbs, tests the summit, before another of stamina and will power. major descent to the lovely After a small breakfast, a bike overnight location in Bagneres repair and a short vehicle ride de Bigorre. to the start point, it was time for a 10km warm up before the Thursday 25th August – Day 3 ascent of the first major climb; of Cycling from Bagneres De the Col de Aubisque at 1709 m Bigorre to Massat, known as and 12% ascents. The group the longest day and it’s the shortly split after the start of RAWOs 50th Birthday. The the major ascent with Messrs efforts of the previous day Green and Deeks out in front, were showing, with a with the remainder climbing at requirement for steady start to a steady pace within their warm up the legs, just in time capability. After a number of for the first major climb, the Col 3

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1. Tue 23 Aug 16 Start from Hotel 4 Hendaye 4 Oloron Ste Marie 160 km, 2200m climbing 2. Wed 24 Aug 16 Start from Hotel 4 Oloron Ste Marie 4 Tourmalet 4 Aste = 140 km, 3530 m climbing 3. Thu 25 Aug Start from Hotel 4 Aste 4 Porte De Aspet 4 Massat = 170 km, 3110m climbing 4. Fri 26 Aug 16 Start from Hotel 4 Massat 4 Col De Port 4 Prades = 145 km, 3400m climbing 5. Sat 27 Aug 16 Start from Hotel 4 Prades 4 Perpignan 4 Cebere or Canet Plage = 98 km, 620m climbing Total distance 713km, Total climbing 12500m d’ Aspin at 1489m, a great The penultimate day of cycling Sunday 28th August – The Over 40,000 ft of climbing and effort by all cycling with all and only a 100 miler that return trip Canet des Rousillion 400 miles was completed, with making the summit, Sgt encompassed Col de Port 1429, via Calais to Elizabeth Barracks three soldiers completing over Bennett and LSgt Williams Col de Pailheres 2001m and Col Pirbight. At the end of every 400 miles, with 2 completing were now into a daily routine Du Jau 1506m. The team was great trip, there must be some the entire distance, all in 4½ and grinding out the climbs at into the daily routine and now punishment, the long drive days. The 2017 Cycle season is their speed, with the front working as a group or splitting through France to race for the looking good for the newly runner just requiring water at into 2-3 smaller groups for Ferry. Great efforts by the formed Welsh Guards Cycling regular intervals. An enjoyable prolonged climbs. drivers, especially Sgt Morgan Club. downhill will always result in who drove for what seemed Saturday 27th August- Day 5 of Thank you to the RAWO WO2 M another climb, after a long like an eternity, meant we Cycling (the Sprint) from Prades Harriman for organising the undulating section, it was up finally got to Calais just after to Canet des Rousillion. The day exercise and sacrificing his the Col de Peyresourde at the planned time. A quick everyone wanted to cycle and 50th Birthday and to the 1586m and Col de Portet d phone call to the Battalion and hit the Med on a push bike. A Regimental Trustees for Aspet 1069m. The light was P&O, a change of ticket time mainly downhill route and team providing such generous fading and it was only the front and ‘Bob’s your Uncle’ - we are work resulted in an excellent funding for the trip. runners of Sgt Green and LSgt on the Ferry and before we average speed. The end was Deek who managed to make know it, back in Blighty and on near and the smell of the med, a the hotel prior to night fall. Sgt the way to EBP. well-earned beer and a hotel Bennet, LSgt Williams and with swimming pool was near. Ex WELSH PYRENEAN BULL Gdsm Garvey required a short A great last effort and a slight (WPB 16) was an arduous Cycle lift to get them to the overnight detour resulted in the 6 out of Tour, that tested the courage, hotel in Massat. Dinner was the 8 members of the team stamina, team work of the taken in the lovely beer garden hitting the med and doing the cyclists and the robustness of celebrating Q Harriman’s 50th compulsory tyre dip. A rush the supporting elements, Birthday. Situation and a slight back to the hotel for a relax in basically cyclists on rest days. 1. LSgt Williams and Garvey stomach rumble resulted in no the pool before the nights The effort by the entire almost reaching the summit alcohol being consumed. of another Col. festivities. A few drinks and a exercising personnel was 2. Yep we were first and wanna Friday 26th August – Day 4 of grand meal overlooking the fantastic, with all exceeding look cool. LSgt Deeks and Sgt Cycling from Massat to Prades. Med. their previous personal bests. Green.

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ADVENTURE TRAINING

1ST BATTALION SCOTS GUARDS SKI TRIP 15 – 23 JANUARY 2016 Lance Sergeant D Hughes 34 Section Commander, Number Four Platoon, Number TwoCompany

5 – 23 January 2016, Lance Sergeant Hughes 34 1took a team of Welsh Guardsmen on a 1st Battalion Scots Guards ski trip to Val D’Isere. The team consisted of Guardsmen Evans 35 from The Prince of Wales’s Company and Guardsmen Adamson, Coombs, Mortlock and 1 Rowlands from Number Two Company. This is Lance Sergeant Hughes’s account of the week.

For years I thought horse Blue Red Blue family welcome riding on the Rocky Mountains which eased a lot of the in couldn’t be beaten. nerves. When asked if I would like to go with the Scots Guards I was Val D’Isere is amazing. a little apprehensive. Going to Everywhere we went it was another Battalion with a small covered in four feet of snow number of Welsh Guards but it didn’t stop the liveliness Guardsmen to look after was a of the town as it would do back little nerve racking. home. The town itself from Furthermore, snow, ice and the bottom to top has bars left and cold generally aren’t my type right of the road as far as the of thing. Days before the trip a eye could see were shops, number of ranks would come selling all sorts of ski up to me saying how jealous equipment and clothing and they were that I was going. large wooden hotels, which They couldn’t stop with all the stories from their trips to the look amazing in the snow and slopes and it made me really with plenty of atmosphere. On excited to go. When arriving at a clear day you could see the Mons Barracks in Aldershot, vast mountain range covering home of the Scots Guards, I the small town and ski lifts was instantly met with a warm could be seen for miles.

Within a day of learning we were all going down small green slopes and by the end of the trip red routes were considered easy.

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Myself and a few of the this trip was by far the best Guardsmen had never skied adventure training I have done before, which wasn’t a in my Army career and we are problem. The Scots Guards ski very grateful to the Scots instructors were some of the Guards for inviting us. best instructors I have worked with. Within a day of learning we were all going down small 1. Hitting the slopes. green slopes and by the end of 2. As Above. the trip red routes were 3. The resort by night. considered easy. Without the 4. Lance Sergeant Hughes 34 at teaching and knowledge of the front with Guardsmen Adamson, Mortlock, Rowlands, these instructors, I don’t think Evans 35 and Coombs behind. any of us would have enjoyed 5. Lance Sergeant Hughes 34 the trip as much. In summary, poses before heading downhill.

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1 ROUND THE ISLAND RACE 2016 Major E S Mathieson Officer Commanding Number Two Company

he annual J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the TIsland Race, organised by the Island Sailing Club, is a one-day yacht race around the Isle of Wight.

The race regularly attracts over This year, five members of the 1,700 boats and around 16,000 Officers' Mess entered the race sailors, making it one of the in Gladeye, the Household largest yacht races in the world Division yacht. Majors Aldridge

2 and the fourth largest MBE, Figgures-Wilson and participation sporting event in Mathieson and Captain Major the UK after the London and Second Lieutenant Elletson Marathon and the Great North got round in eight hours, forty- and South Runs. one minutes and nineteen seconds. Competitors come from all over the UK, other parts of Europe and as far away as the USA to follow the 50 nautical mile course. Starting on the famous Royal Yacht 1. Major Mathieson, Second Lieutenant Elletson, Captain line in Cowes, the fleet races Major and Major Aldridge MBE westabout, to The Needles, aboard Gladeye. round St Catherine's Point and 2. Lieutenant Elletson and Major Bembridge Ledge buoy and Figgures-Wilson getting ready back into the Solent to the to cross the start. 3. Gladeye passing the Needles. 3 finish line at Cowes.

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ADVENTUROUS TRAINING, BAVARIA, 22-28 AUGUST 2016 2Lt Lucas Colley 3 R WELSH (Assault Pioneer Platoon Commander)

embers of the Welsh Guards travelled to Bavaria, MGermany at the end of August for a multi-activity Adventure Training package comprising kayaking and rock climbing. 1 Twelve personnel from the featured in the film Chitty several metres of clear open and back from Elizabeth Battalion attended, in glorious Chitty Bang Bang) from near water to navigate around! The Barracks, the quality of the late summer sunshine, for the top. Many of the faces weather consistently held out training provided more than what was to be a very exciting required a lot of chalk to for us all week, with barely a made up for it. Overall, the trip week. The party divided into maintain a firm grip and the single cloud in the sky and was as advertised; an excellent two groups, with each group hand- and foot-holds weren’t temperatures hovering around reward for several members of doing two days of one activity always obvious. We were 27 degrees; absolutely perfect the Battalion for their hard and then swapping over. consistently put to shame by a conditions for both activities. work over the last year. After a fairly emotional 24 hour few groups of obviously The quality of instructors was minibus journey we arrived at experienced climbers, who high and we had a great day’s 1. Following Gdsm Twose (Sp Coy) during the first day on the lake. our lodge in the little mountain seemed to be able to scale and R&R on the fifth day, 2. LCpl Whiles (Prince of Wales’ village of Wertach. The first day descend the faces at an culminating with a night out unbelievable pace. Company) brings his kayak in at was spent drawing equipment, on the town. Although it was a the end of the river journey on the safety briefs and all the usual Nonetheless, everyone enjoyed long journey in the minibus out last day of training. stuff. After scouting the local themselves and spirits were area for a beer later that high. The small group sizes and evening (ably assisted by SSgt quality of instruction were a Rogers’ fluent German) we blessing in this respect. turned in, ready for the first The kayaking was also highly day of activities. enjoyable, starting out with The rock climbing, while not one day on a lake to learn the overly technical, was core skills before building on conducted on some relatively them on the second day by challenging faces and resulted following a river for several km. in one particular platoon Again, a particular platoon commander folding himself commander did an excellent into some very unusual shapes job of losing it, trying to paddle while trying to get up one upstream and capsizing his particular slope! The party kayak, to much amusement of hopped across the border into the Guardsmen following up. Austria to locate the most However, Gdsm Twose did suitable slopes – one of which seem to manage to find every offered a distant view of single prominent rock in the Neuschwanstein Castle (as river, despite there being 2

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By about 0830, as the men from beneath their umbrellas. were in three ranks ready to CSgt Stephen O’Brien was step off to march through the awarded his Long Service and camp to the Chapel, the Good Conduct Medal; a dozen heavens opened. Lance Corporals were A scurry ensued once again; promoted to Lance Sergeants troops ran to don waterproofs and welcomed into their new in a hopeless attempt to stay Mess, as were some very good dry. They marched off, to the Guardsmen promoted to Lance unmistakable high-pitched Corporal. Of note was the new scraping sound of Lightweight Honorary Colonel, Alun Waterproof Jacket MVP, MTP Petersen, who continued his

1 NSN 8415-99-443-5952; enough support for the Battalion by to make any Infantryman’s skin joining the parade in his official ST DAVID’S DAY 2016 crawl. The forage caps capacity for the first time and drenched, the streets laden handed leeks to the cadet Capt D Luther-Davies with sodden leaves, pressed contingents. As always, the (Reconnaissance Platoon Commander) uniforms soaked, buff belts Association showed a huge greyed by water, the shiniest of amount of support to the day t David’s Day 2016 with 1st Bn Welsh Guards started as boots dulled by the rain. All the with 102 Association members Sit always does, with weary Guardsmen wandering hours of hard work in the build on parade. Once formalities around camp looking at the ground. up to that morning was undone were concluded, Lt. Gen. Bashall by a heavy rain shower. received the salute for the “Areas” it’s called, a special Once everything was in place, Battalion march past led by the “black spot” was being held this the Drill Sergeant could be It didn’t stop the VIPs, the Commanding Officer. particular morning. All in order heard shouting out words of Association, cadets and family to make sure our camp and command, and as if by members attending, shaking After the parade, each Mess had especially our parade square accident, the men marched their umbrellas as they entered lunch with their guests. Cawl, a was immaculate for our guests. immaculately; the halting of Pirbright Chapel for the Service. traditional Welsh soup of We tormented ourselves with boots on tarmac was so timely Nor did it stop the hearty cheese, lamb, leek and potato our collective desire for singing of Welsh hymns and accompanied by a hearty roll that the final aggregate drive of perfection. renditions by the Battalion’s was served. A band and a the Battalion’s heals sent a very own choir. comedy show were put on for Troops flurried in and out of the booming echo across the entire the Guardsmen in the Dragon cookhouse and their The Battalion marched back to Pirbright Garrison. Club (All Ranks Bar) later that accommodation blocks, Elizabeth Barracks under the evening. The band and comedy sweeping walkways, picking up The sky was clear; it looked as if same torrent, almost a little club put on an excellent show litter, raising flags and parking it was going to be a nice day. All lighter, socks squelching by this entertaining all in attendance Foxhound armoured vehicles in the soldiers disappeared to don time. There, they formed up capping off a fine celebration of different display positions. their Number Two Service Dress. with the Association and cadets the Welsh Guard’s centenary for the parade. Lieutenant year. General James Bashall CBE, Commander Personnel and Happy 101st birthday the Welsh Support Command (now Home Guards. Cymru am Byth. Command as of May 2016) was the senior Officer on parade 1. The author, with Captain Jeff and presented Officers and Jones (Unit Welfare Officer) leading No 3 Coy off parade Warrant Officers with their with Lieutenant General leeks before leeks were given Bashall CBE taking the salute. out to all on parade by their The Regimental Lieutenant respective Company Colonel is next to him on the dais. Commanders. A proud 2. WO1 (RSM) Dunn adjusts his collection of guests and family forage cap having been members looked on steadfastly presented with his leek. 2

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PEMBROKE TOWN RALLIES AGAIN Colonel T C S Bonas

ver since the Freedom of Pembroke was conferred Eupon the Regiment in February 2006, our liaison and links have remained strong and we have been back several times since.

The latest such visit was on 21 produced an excellent lunch for April where we were invited to us all and after speeches and receive a donation to the Welsh the cheque presentation we 1 Guards Charity for £1,170 (a few dispersed, although the Corps more hundred was received of Drums returned that evening later). This donation to our to play music for the Council’s charity was but one of several Annual Achiever Awards. we have received from Aside from the once again kind Pembroke Council since 2006. donation to the WG Charity, our The culmination of this recent presence in Pembroke was fund raising was an abseil much appreciated and the down the Castle walls phase “a little goes a long way” organised by Councillor Aden certainly applies here. A most Brinn, himself a former Mayor enjoyable day had by all and of the town and the force our bond with Pembroke ever behind this and previous fund stronger. raising efforts for the Regiment. Prior to this, the Corps of Drums 2 1. The Mayor Councillor Pauline marched through the High Waters and Regimental Street watched by an excellent Adjutant Colonel Tom Bonas local turnout and dozens of taking time out to chat with local schools on the walk up to Pembroke school children castle. marched behind waving Union 2. Councillor Pauline Waters and Flags. The Mayor, Councillor Councillor Aden Brinn and Pauline Waters and the Deputy Deputy Mayor Denise Evans Mayor, Councillor Denise Evans, presenting the cheque to took the salute from the dais Colonel Tom Bonas. outside the front of the Town 3. The Mayor Councillor Pauline Waters and Colonel Tom Bonas Hall. The Corps of Drums with Welsh Guards Corps of marched onto the Castle to play Drums in Pembroke appropriate music for the 4. Corps of Drums with Councillor abseilers and the large crowd Aden Brinn and team. 3 that had gathered to watch. The Regimental Support Team were also present adding additional colour and Welsh Guards presence as was the Regimental Adjutant who perhaps thankfully was not asked to take part in the abseiling in his Frock Coat. Not so for two Drummers who rolled up their sleeves and whizzed down the Castle wall. The Town Clerk, Mrs Susie Thomas, and her small team 4

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THE ORATORY SCHOOL CCF BIANNUAL INSPECTION 2016 Captain James Marsden

fter some particularly torrid weather in the run up, the Aclouds had cleared and on 12 May 16 the Battalion sent a number of Welsh Guardsmen to The Oratory School to support their CCF Biannual Inspection.

This was the latest in a number The Javelin was also well of events supported by the received with the Guardsmen Regiment since the school delivering expletive-free briefs changed its affiliation from the and spinning dits about to the Welsh Guards in weapon systems to drum up 2013 and the second biannual interest before the cadets went inspection we have attended. to the Army Recruiting Team’s inflatable assault course. Our On arrival the Commanding involvement was confined to Officer, accompanied by the the Army detachment of the CCF Regimental Adjutant, inspected however, as testament to the a detachment from the School’s Guardsmen and their CCF. The boys had clearly enthusiasm, cadets from the worked hard on their turnout Navy and RAF sections were and drill and, while not quite soon seen getting hands on the Queen’s Guard-ready, they kit. would rival some Phase 1 recruits! A short congratulatory The final parade saw the address from the Commanding traditional brief exchange of Officer saw a break for lunch presentations between the held in the School’s Black Room Commanding Officer and the – a venue somewhat familiar to School CCF Contingent Colonel Bonas who, some years Commander, previously, had been School Marland Green MBE. The Captain and whose name is Regiment presented the School immortalised on the boards in with a framed print of HM the entrance hall. Queen Elizabeth II presenting the Battalion with our New It is rare that the boys and staff Colours at Windsor. The at the school get to see or Commanding Officer then handle the firepower an addressed the CCF Contingent infantry battalion has at its as a whole, once more disposal and so the afternoon’s reiterating the importance of activities were met with great events such as the Biannual enthusiasm. As anticipated the Inspection and the links headline items were the GMG, between the Regiment and the HMG and .338 sniper rifle. School.

1. The Commanding Officer presenting a picture of the New Colours Parade in 2015 to the Contingent Commander, Wing Commander Marland Green. 1

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1. Welsh Guards Mortar Platoon with Sqn Ldr Discombe, Deputy OC BBMF and Eric. 2. Csgt Young and Gdsm Qaranivalu enjoying the Typhoon. 1

BATTLE OF BRITAIN The tour of the Battle of Britain their hanger and the MEMORIAL FLIGHT VISIT Memorial Flight was followed opportunity to sit inside a Capt AJN Smith by a visit to No 29 Sqn, who fly Typhoon cockpit. Officer Commanding Mortar Platoon Typhoons and train RAF pilots Support Company new to the aircraft. Flt Lt The trip was a much needed Wilkinson gave the Platoon a and well-deserved break for n June the Welsh Guards Mortar Platoon made a two- brief on the aircraft's the Platoon and presented a Iday visit to Lincolnshire - an opportunity to take a break capabilities, its continuing good opportunity to socialise from 'green' training, to see something different and to development, including the as a group in a more-relaxed relax as a group. development on ground to air environment; it was extremely integration. The brief was successful and much enjoyed They were fortunate enough to infantry veteran who had seen followed by a walk around by all. be able to organise a visit to action in the Far East during see the Battle of Britain WW2. After a short caffeine fix Memorial Flight (BBMF) at and a brief about the role of Royal Air Force Coningsby. the Flight we were left in Eric's Because of the distance from very capable hands for a tour Pirbright, an overnight stay of what has to be one of the was necessary and Lt Col Stone most impressive and inspiring was kind enough to provide hangers in the world. It hospitality at the Prince William included Hurricanes, Spitfires of Gloucester Barracks in (including one of the last flying nearby Grantham. This gave examples of one that actually the opportunity for an fought in the Battle of Britain), enjoyable curry night. Chipmunks, Dakotas and, of course, the massive Lancaster The following morning the bomber. Eric gave an Platoon made their way to RAF impressive and informative Coningsby for a meeting with talk, and it was noted (and Sqn Ldr Mark Discombe, appreciated) that the 'squady Deputy OC BBMF, and his team, banter' transcends the years! which included Eric, an ex- 2

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Ian Groom MBE. All the guests, HMS PRINCE OF WALES including representatives from AFFILIATES’ DAY the Cities of and the Worshipful Captain Leighton Ryan Company of Goldsmiths, The and No. 27 eptember 2016 saw CSgt Scarf and myself represent Squadron RAF were amazed as Sthe Battalion on the celebration of the Regiment’s Capt Groom MBE conveyed affiliation with the HMS Prince of Wales moored at Rosyth stories of heroism and gave an Dockyard, Edinburgh. This was a day that we were both insight to what life must have privileged and proud to attend and celebrate our history. been like for these brave heroes out at sea for months The HMS Prince of Wales is this battle proved a tactical on end. It was an informative currently one of two ships victory for the Germans, it insight to how they operated undergoing construction for success was short lived as the and how it can be related to the with a planned fuel leaked from the Prince of the way we approach warfare active service date of 2020. This Wales forced the Germans to today. will be the 7th ship named abandon their mission On the completion of the briefs after HRH the Prince of Wales allowing the British its we were given our very stylish with the first being launched operational victory. Second to protective equipment, which back in 1765 and the most that, angered by the defeat of consisted of hi-vis vests, hard recent of the fleet being a King our sister ship, HMS Hood, lost hats and steeled toecap boots. Charles V-Class battleship. at the same battle and as a Luckily for me, our issued boots Again a ship rich with history testament to the British were sufficient enough to save gaining active service during formidable spirit, a large scale having to change in to those as the Second World War, in counter attack saw the Bismark I don’t think I would have particular the Battle of sank a mere three days later. allowed any photographs to Denmark Strait where it fought be taken. on 24 May 1941 against the The celebrations of the Prince formidable German battleship, of Wales Affiliates’ Day began Once on the ship, you the Bismark and the heavy with a brief delivered by the immediately got a feel of how cruiser Prinz Eugen. Although ships current captain, Captain large the ship is. Having gone 2

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3 up several flights of stairs until you could imagine buying to be tucking into it. Whilst you reach the flight deck you ammunition straight from the eating, all the guests were all immediately get to see the ship warehouse at Amazon, then able to pose questions and fill in and its enormity. The flight you can imagine what their the gaps from how they did it in deck is approximately 16000 ammunition storage area was the Second World War to how square metres and has a like, vast is not the word. To see we have developed our capability of holding up to 40 this kind of technology and how capability to such an extent that 1. Capt Leighton Ryan and CSgt aircraft, ranging from -35 it operates was just an insight to we are now. A point that David Scarf in front of the bow Lightning II, Chinook CH47, how efficient and prepared we resonated throughout was how of HMS Prince of Wales at the Apache AH 64, Merlin HM2 and as the Armed Forces have welcome we had been made inaugural Affiliates day in Rosyth dockyard, Edinburgh. HC4, Wildcat HMA2 and AH1, or become. The system is and just to the extent at how 2. HMS Prince of Wales ships crest. in Guardsman’s language you automated and allows the keen the staff at HMS Prince of could rehearse an entire operators to essentially 3. A mock up of what both Queen Wales is to maintain Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers Queen’s Birthday Parade on command the system to bring communications and continue will look like when complete. there, including the horses! up required weapons from to develop our affiliation with HMS Queen Elizabeth and deep magazines to their HMS Prince of Wales. Once we had finished on the the team. preparation areas on the 2nd 4. The Highly Mechanised flight deck and discussed just deck with no need to go down Looking to the future we are Weapon Handling System how this thing actually floats planning to host the staff of the (HMWHS) nicknamed the to the magazines. ‘Mole.’ we moved to the lower deck HMS Prince of Wales at Elizabeth where we visited the on-board Once the weapons are Barracks with the hope of a facilities including a dentist and prepared the system will deliver rugby or football match to its own top of the range the weapon to the 2nd deck welcome our guests and show surgery. When we commented using motorised machinery and our appreciation for an on how similar it was to the role lifts to allow them to be sent to extremely informative and 3 theatre in Camp Bastion we the flight deck ready to be used enjoyable trip. I know that I, for were informed that much of to their maximum effect. one, will be paying close what they had in there had in The day concluded with a buffet attention to the continuous fact been up cycled from this lunch, which was very tasty, build of this amazing vessel and unit. however, I’m not sure that they will hopefully return to One area that stuck in our were quite prepared for two of Edinburgh next year to see its minds from the day was this: if the Welsh Guards rugby team development. 4

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to see all the cadets involved CENTENARY WOOD AT COED and really taking ownership of FFOS LAS, 29 JUNE 2016 the tasks, with the relevant team leaders organising their 2Lt Lucas Colley 3 R WELSH people effectively and quickly. (Assault Pioneer Platoon Commander) Ultimately, despite the lements of the Battalion deployed to Coed Ffos Las in inclement weather, a thoroughly enjoyable day was South Wales on 29th June to facilitate a Community E had by all and several Engagement event. Our aim was to support the Woodland thousand trees were planted Trust shaping the Centenary Wood at Coed Ffos Las, as for the Centenary Wood. part of the commemorations of the 100th anniversary of Naturally, this piece of the Battle of the Somme. woodland will grow and blossom into a substantial The main effort of the event On the day we had orchard with the potential for was to enhance the profile of approximately 100 cadets further expansion. As a the Battalion, through the arriving from the various commemorative piece, it is development of strong ties groups. After a swift reception highly fitting as it also serves to with the Army Cadet Force and and a briefing for the day in restore extra timber to an area Military Prep Colleges from the village hall, they were that was heavily de-forested in across Wales. A recruiting brought up to the exercise area the First World War in order to stand was set up to highlight where the Battalion staff were provide structural the Welsh Guards’ capabilities waiting to put them through reinforcement to the front-line 1 and equipment. Each company each of their tasks. The trenches. This provides a provided a different emphasis command tasks were highly highly suitable and the various cadets who competitive, with the RAPTCI commemoration for all the attended were put through co-ordinating and collating Welshmen who fought at the their paces in a series of results. Each of the command Battle of the Somme and command tasks. The centre- tasks had a different theme, strengthens our links with the piece command task was laid dependent on the Company Woodland Trust, the MPCT and on by the Assault Pioneers, responsible for running it; for the local Army Cadet Force – in with all the cadets required to example the LAD had a vehicle time this should generate extra plant as many trees as they recovery task and the Medical recruitment for the Battalion could within a set time. Extra Centre had a casualty and keep our presence visible challenge was provided by the evacuation task. Our paired in South Wales. In addition, not thoroughly wet weather, which Reserve Battalion, 3 Royal only were Welsh Combat resulted in us having to re-set Welsh, also attended to represented but a wider view and replace some of the generate extra recruitment for of the Army was given to those tentage at various times the Reserves, as well as our aspiring cadets who may wish building up to the event! A lot sister Welsh Combat unit, the to join other arms and services of frustration went very high Queen’s Dragoon Guards. in the future. after having set approximately four tents, one was wrecked As well as being a good piece within minutes by strong of local community work for 1. Number Two Company’s Lt Lewis and Sgt Hedges winds and the other three the cadets to engage in, the enthusiastically join in the looked highly questionable… whole day gave them a brief tree planting, or is it mine Nevertheless, we persisted and flavour of what the Army can clearance? the weather eventually gave us offer – working as a team, 2. Ex-Welsh Guardsman some respite towards the end under challenging conditions (now Royal Welshman) WO2 Thomas 53 also gets to grips of the evening. and time pressure. It was great with planting a few trees.

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that the Regiment was often on to be a Field Marshal. referred to affectionately as the It was decided shortly after, 'Foreign Legion' by the rest of the Household Division. that I should get down to some proper soldiering, so I was sent Still, I was in two minds until to join the Scots Guards who Colonel James Malcolm told were short of officers on an me that, if I chose theWelsh operational tour of NI. The Guards, I would be going to Scots Guardsmen quickly Berlin. ‘You’ll be right in the dispensed with my surname Permafrost of the Cold War' he said, adding, just in case that and simply addressed me as didn't do the trick, 'oh, and of Mr Smith. A few months later, I course you'll get a generous was back again to NI, this time overseas allowance to help to South Armagh with the with the racy social life'. My Welsh Guards. It was at the mind was made up. height of ADDRESS GIVEN BY following the massacre, in late What Colonel James didn't tell CAPTAIN PAUL DE ZULUETA me, however, was that within a August 1979, of 18 members of week of landing in Berlin, I the Parachute Regiment and IN THE GUARDS’ CHAPEL would be responsible for the Queen's Own Highlanders Remembrance Sunday 13 November 2016 guarding Rudolf Hess, the at Warren Point, and the murder of Lord Mountbatten he poet and writer, Siegfried Sassoon, who fought in prominent Nazi politician, serving a Life sentence at and members of his family. I the Great War, was always worried that people would T Spandau prison. But I was left the army in 1986. forget the Battle of the Somme. more fortunate than a brother It's only when you reach middle officer who, one day, found ‘Have you forgotten yet for the When I was just sixteen, I age that you begin to realise World has rumbled on', he received a letter from the himself patrolling past Hess who, and what, has been wrote in his poem 'Aftermath' Regimental Adjutant of the who was tending his small fruit important in your life and the in 1919. Grenadier Guards asking and vegetable garden. He anchors of friendship and family whether I'd like to come for an heard Hess say 'Vould you like a On July1st this year, as the that have held you steady. interview during the next plum? My brother officer, Nation began its startled by Hess's words who school holidays. I'm not sure It was the summer of 2009 that Commemoration of the was never known to say Somme's Centenary, a number what military talent they had brought this home to me. I was picked up on, but my Mother’s anything, stammered 'Well, of us from the Regiment met at how kind of you, thank you'. walking to my office in Victoria 7.30, the time that fateful family had been . when my Blackberry beeped. It My grandfather 'Boy' Browning Hess, a wily old fox, later whistle sounded 100 years was an email from Colonel Tom won the Distinguished Service reported him.'British officer ago, to observe two minutes Bonas, our Regimental Order aged 19 in 1917 serving steals plum' was then escalated silence. Adjutant, informing me that with their Second Battalion. He to the highest authorities. the Commanding Officer, A contemporary of Sassoon's, was just one of three officers Colonel James was right about Rupert Thorneloe, had been the writer AP Herbert, once from his battalion to survive the social life. Our said that 'Every Englishman that day. commanding officer at one of killed in action in Afghanistan. has an image of the Somme'. his regular meetings with the We'd already been saddened But I was torn between the For me, the image is of the Pals Berlin Brigade Commander, a by the deaths of Mark Evison, battalions, that army of friends, Grenadiers and loyalty to my humourless Scottish Sean Birchall, Toby Fasfous and sustained by their Faith and father, Peter, and my cousin Presbyterian, found himself Dane Elson on the same their sense of duty and service, Philip, who had both been in asked by the Brigadier as to gruelling tour, but Tom's email drawn from the same towns, the Welsh Guards, only a why young Welsh Guards shook me. None of my villages, cricket teams and couple of months ago, contemporaries had met factories: miners, shipping someone asked me which Officers were so often to be clerks, porters and errand Regiment I had served with. I found in nightclubs in the Rupert, or any other of the boys, artists and aristocrats. said the Welsh Guards to which French Sector. Our Welsh Guardsmen killed in The image stays with me he replied 'Really, what with a Commanding Officer looked action. But we all felt a sharp because it was the gift of family name like Zulueta, how did that him straight in the eye and said sense of loss as though an and friendship that the Welsh happen then? I let the remark 'Only on sports afternoons, Sir'. unknown, but much respected, Guards gave me. pass, though I was reminded My Commanding Officer went cousin had passed away.

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In the autumn of that year, a life, is now the youngest Colour number of us got together to Sergeant in the British Army climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and about to go to Sandhurst and Snowdon in 24 hrs to to train our future Officers. remember them, and support That's why as we our Afghanistan appeal. commemorate the centenary Alun Powell, who had been my of the Somme this year, the platoon sergeant led the walk, image that remains in my mind his presence, as well as his is that of the Pals Battalions, ability to read a map, as that army of friends and family, reassuring to me as it had been 'To these I turn, in these I trust ' 35 years ago. wrote Sassoon a month before In late September this year, I the Battle. A hundred years went with the Regiment on a later, we would say the same battlefield tour to Normandy to about the Welsh Guards, 'To see where the Regiment had these I turn, in these I trust fought after D Day, and visit the And as to Sassoon's gentle graves of those Welsh rebuke, 'Have you forgotten Guardsmen killed in action. It yet'? I return to July 1st this was a good mix of us, past and year. After my brother officers present, from Guardsman to and I had observed the two General, to our good and minutes silence, we went our generous friends from the separate ways. As I got on the Drapers’ Company. I remember underground, in the seats asking the Guardsmen why opposite me, sat three men they had joined the Welsh dressed as First World War Guards. soldiers handing out cards Without exception, they said with the names of those who because a cousin or an uncle had died that day, 100 years had served, or their best mate ago. My card read: from school had joined up. Micklethwaite, East Lancashire One Guardsman told me he'd Regiment, Accrington Pals, felt a sense of purpose for the aged 20. first time in his life when he'd Later that day, I watched on the watched a Welsh Guards BBC, the centenary homecoming parade in his Commemoration at Thiepval. home town of Bangor. It was a beautiful and moving I once heard Rabbi Jonathan ceremony. As Her Majesty said, Sacks talk about Leaders as it was a day for quiet thinking Educators and Mentors. It's and contemplation. Like today, something we've done very it was also a time to remember well as a Regiment. We're all the 1539 Welsh Guardsmen proud that this single-battalion killed in action since we were Regiment has produced more formed in 1915, and those Generals than any other Welsh Guardsmen who single-battalion Regiment in continue to suffer mentally and the British army over the last physically from recent conflict. quarter of a century. In For me, there is no such thing Normandy, I met one of our as an ex Welsh Guardsman, or Non Commissioned Officers a former Welsh Guardsman, who, after a very rough start in just a Welsh Guardsman.

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REGIMENTAL & BATTALION EVENTS 77 Welsh Guardsmen attending the wake following the Requiem Mass for Major Peter Owen-Edmunds 14 October 2016

Back row (l to r): Rupert Cockcroft, Tony Ballard, Andrew Morgan, James Farquharson, Tommy MacDonald-Milner, Brian Keane, Neville Hamer, William Syms, James Manningham-Buller, Aldwyn Wight, Julian Sayers, Nick Drummond, Hugh Boddington, Roddy Sale

Front row (l to r): Tony Downes, ??, Robin Malcolm, James Scott-Bowden, Richard Stanford, Keith Astley, Robert Talbot-Rice, Olly Richardson, Tom Bonas, Richard Powell, Ray Evans, Micky Senior, Simon Rhodes.

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SAINT CHARLES DE PERCY JUNE 2016 Lieutenant JJC Lewis Officer Commanding Number Six Platoon, Number Two Company

n 5 June 2016 four members of 1st Battalion Welsh OGuards departed for Normandy to visit the village of Saint Charles de Percy to commemorate those who fell in the battle for the area. The group consisted of Lieutenant Lewis, Sergeant Hedges, Lance Corporal Armstrong and Guardsman Watters. Upon reaching border control joined at lunch by the son of an the officials on duty were Irish Guards Officer who helped somewhat intrigued by the liberate the area and indeed the tunics, bearskins and other village itself. He was items in the boot of the car. accompanied by an architect After a long conversation in who was an expert on the war 1 “Franglais” we managed to and how it impacted the locals. did everyone when it came to We were welcomed with open convince the French Border We chatted for a long time the National Anthems. There arms and the people of the Agency that we were indeed on about the significance of the must have been 200 people village were very willing to our way to Normandy for an Battle of Saint Charles de Percy present at the ceremony. share their stories and official ceremony and not part and how the Guards Armoured memories. All in all, it was a When the ceremony was over of are-enactment group. Division played such a key role in fantastic day. we marched down to the the liberation. We heard how We left Calais and cruised 1. Guardsman Watters, the Chateau was under constant through the beautiful Northern Memorial where we laid a Lieutenant Lewis and Sergeant sniper fire but this didn’t stop a France countryside until we wreath and had a minute’s Hedges in the Cemetery at young platoon commander Saint Charles de Percy. reached the small and charming silence. The proceedings came 2. Veterans and locals get into village of Saint Charles de Percy. from wandering outside to eat a to an end and drinks were laid bowl of strawberries that had position as the ceremony It was getting late in the evening on for us. begins to get under way. as we pulled into the drive of the been left on the terrace. Mayor of the Villages With lunch finished it was time Chateaux.The door flung open to get changed for the and the Mayor greeted us in ceremony. We walked up to the good English much to my relief Cemetery with cars hooting as my GCSE French is beginning their horns and waving at us. to become a little rusty. We ate a simple meal, told stories and The ceremony itself was moving went to bed. and it was great to see some of the veterans as well as the In the morning we woke to civilian population who were fresh coffee, cheese and eggs present during the liberation of before conducting a recce of the the village. Lance Corporal cemetery and Armstrong played the Last Post in the centre of the village. on the bugle beautifully after We were very kindly asked to the wreaths were laid. The local lunch with the Mayor. We were school choir sang and then so

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1 3

The focus was to set this historic must have been extremely OPERATION SOMME REFLECT battle in its context, in terms of difficult when it could take – ARMY STAFF RIDE 2016 its contribution to the Great War, hours to receive basic updates the legacy it created for all from the front line. Major E S Mathieson involved, as well as its relevance Officer Commanding Number Two Company, It was also very interesting to be to modern warfare against a 1st Battalion Welsh Guards given insight into the Battle of peer enemy. We were privileged the Somme from the enemy to be accompanied by officers he British Army’s official report on World War One, the perspective. German accounts from the armies of Australia, TKirke Report, made clear the requirement to translate are often overlooked and having Canada, France, Germany, specialist academics presented learning from the past into lessons for the future. (United Ireland and New Zealand. Each Kingdom, British Army, 1932. Report of the Committee on afforded us situational country representative had their awareness as we considered the Lessons of the Great War. London). opportunity to recognise the how and why the Germans sacrifices of their forebears as were fighting. In this spirit and with clear The joining instructions we travelled between direction from the Chief of the reassured us that we were not cemeteries. These poignant We returned to our day jobs General Staff, 128 temporary taking part in a battlefield tour spots allowed us to overlook the humbled by those he went students were selected from but a staff ride, which required and reflect upon the before us and inspired by the across the Army. Support came detailed preparation and losses suffered. chance to immerse ourselves in from the other two services, preliminary study. This was duly a piece of international history. multiple directing staff, shaped into pre-reading, a One striking feature of the The discussion generated will academics and a real-life study day, one week on the Somme is the level at which the duly be translated into changes support team. We were to Somme and then an Army was operating. Corps and to doctrine and published on undertake a detailed study of exploitation day. divisions were manoeuvring the Army Knowledge Exchange. the Battle of Somme. and it is easy to become lost in the numbers of soldiers involved. Accounts of the battle regularly discuss general officers as being the key drivers of success and responsible for failure. In a much diminished modern army, this level of command is increasingly difficult to relate to, especially when advanced technology is 1. The South African memorial, factored in. Commanding a Delville Wood. company requires extensive and 2. The Australian memorial, constant communication. Pozières. Making decisions for and 3. The 1/8th (Argyll) Battalion Argyll and Sutherland applying mission command to a Highlanders memorial, dispersed force of thousands Beaumont Hamel. 2

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1 On the site of many of the to remember the dead but also, EXERCISE SOMME DRAGON original trenches and as soldiers, to find out how Second Lieutenant G F Elletson battlefields lie graveyards and these battles were fought and Officer Commanding Number Five Platoon, memorials to the fallen soldiers. how tactics progressed in this Number Two Company We spent time visiting the war with the development of graves and delving into the technology and lethality. xercise Somme Dragon was a battlefield study 5 – 10 stories of some of the EJuly, led by 160 Brigade. It focused on the Welsh individuals who are buried contribution to the Battle of The Somme and centred on there. There are also a large the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Mametz Wood. number of unmarked graves as 1st Battalion Welsh Guards was represented by myself often it proved impossible to and Sergeant Hedges. identify bodies of the dead. Thiepval Memorial is the focal 1. Second Lieutenant Elletson point for this and has engraved and Sergeant Hedges at the Although the Welsh Guards about the birth of the Royal Air Welsh Memorial in Langemark were not involved directly in this Force through the Royal Flying on it the names of 72,246 (located near Pilkem Ridge in battle our presence allowed us Corps and how early aeroplanes missing soldiers who lie in the former Ypres Salient). to show support for our fellow were used as spotters for unmarked graves having fallen Welsh regiments and to artillery. at the Somme or subsequent acknowledge the incredible battles. On the final day we The study was led by Captain sacrifice of Welshmen in the visited the memorial and a Mark Evans (3rd Battalion Royal Great War, particularly from 38th ceremony was led by the Royal Welsh) who had a thorough (Welsh) Division. The group was British Legion who paid tribute knowledge of First World War to those whose fate is unknown. Tri-Service and this diversity history and was able to bring ensured that subject matter the study to life by including The trip was thoroughly experts were always available to stories of his own Great worthwhile and was deemed by explain the detail of all elements Grandfather who fought in the all who were there as extremely of the fighting. Most interesting Battle of the Somme. This was educational. It also gave us a were explanations of how continued throughout the week chance to reflect on the artillery barrages were used, as people whose families had sacrifices made by the sometimes to the detriment of been involved in the battles generations before us and the British soldiers at the start of the being studied were encouraged hardships which they endured. war, and how the ‘rolling to speak about what they had It is important for us to barrage’ technique was discovered through personal remember a hundred years on developed. We were also taught research. what happened in the war and

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of my entire life. After a quick song burst of “For Those in Peril on the Sea”, Spider and Stan somehow managed to sleep in a cabin but Kelvyn and I were bordering on being sea sick and soon realised why we chose to serve in the Army as opposed to the Royal Navy. It was a relief to get back into the confined space of Spider’s car when we arrived in France for the onward journey to our hotel. We arrived at the hotel at 0700hrs where Stan, Kelvyn and I soon realised that ‘Spider Webb Tours.com’ had booked a hotel in the middle of a mention our kit. Somehow, we deserted French village, an CENTENARY PILGRIMAGE TO managed to fit our bags into hour and a half journey away the car but hats off to Kelvyn from where we wanted to be THE SOMME for spending the entire car in the Somme. There was not a Captain Lyndon Davies QARANC journey in the rear seat soul or a bar in sight and we 29 June – 3 July 2016 practically hidden under boxes, began to get concerned that bags, coats and Spider’s our Pilgrimage to the Somme our members of the Welsh Guards Association infamous bowler hat and would prove difficult from a Ftravelled to France on a pilgrimage for the 100th puppet monkey. With Spider location so far away. At this Anniversary Commemorations for the Battle of the driving, Stan in the front point the priority was to get a cup of tea and breakfast so we Somme. Their presence added an extra special passenger seat and Kelvyn and tried to stay positive thinking ‘it contribution to this important event. me in the rear, we embarked on our Pilgrimage. It was a will all work out OK’. However, relief arriving at the ferry negativity soon cropped back David (Spider) Webb, Stan When Kelvyn and I arrived at terminal to be able to get out into the fold with the hotel Evans and Kelvyn Jenkins all the RV point to meet Spider and of the car. refusing to serve us until we served with the Welsh Guards. Stan for the outward journey in had checked in – and check in Lyndon Davies serves with 203 Spider’s car, we did not expect The pleasure of reaching the was at 1500hrs, 8 hours away. (Welsh) Field Hospital and is an to be greeted with a car ferry terminal in New Haven Associate Member of the Welsh already full to capacity with was soon short lived by the In true Army spirit, the ‘adapt Guards Association. very little room for us not to roughest 4 hour ferry crossing and overcome’ mentality kicked into action and we decided to drive to the Somme for a recce and have breakfast in Avril Williams’ café at Auchonvillers. Avril has met us all before when we have visited on battlefield tours. After a grand entrance singing “There’s a bright golden haze on the meadow… Oh what a beautiful morning”, we were greeted with a welcome and a smile and Avril served a stunning breakfast with countless mugs of tea that hit the right spot. On hearing our predicament, Avril suggested that we should drive to Mailly Maillet, a village 2 miles away

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and look for a house that may got into the mind-set of living have a couple of spare rooms. the life of a soldier 100 years Sadly there was no reply at this ago and to be able to watch house but by an amazing their discipline, historical stroke of luck we bumped into practices and military routines a very helpful lady. She was the of that period was an Secretary to Mr Rod Bedford, education in itself. the Chairman of the Royal Amongst the re-enactors was British Legion Somme Branch, Chris Coode, ex Welsh Guards who is a Retired Grenadier Prince of Wales’s Company and Guard. She introduced us to a a member of Llanelli Branch lovely elderly couple, Lilienne Welsh Guards Association. It and Gillies who agreed that we was really nice to meet him. could stay in a house that they Kelvyn and Spider joined in the owned in the village at a very re-enactment theme by reasonable rate. Needless to wearing their traditional WW1 say, we bit their hands off by period Welsh Guards uniforms. this offer and we were touched by the incredible warm The first cemetery we visited welcome shown towards us by included the grave of 2nd these lovely genuine people. Lieutenant Henry Norman Spider without much Grant, Lancashire , persuasion promptly cancelled who came from the beautiful the hotel and our Pilgrimage old Welsh market town of Hay finally got off to a great start on Wye, who died aged 23 on right in the heart of the the first day of the Battle of the Somme. Somme. Kelvyn who is also from Hay on Wye and served During the Great War, the During the battle, Ginchy had significantly complemented for many years as a musician in village of Mailly Maillet was a an advanced dressing station our trip by the information he the Welsh Guards Band, found Casualty Clearing Station and and amongst the Guardsmen shared. Part of Stan’s collection it particularly poignant playing there is evidence of this to this who died there is Gdsm Joseph is Gdsm Wilcoxon’s ‘Death Coin’ the Last Post at 2nd Lt Grant’s day. The house used as the Oswald Wilcoxon Welsh Guards and we laid a wreath at his grave. Spider carried the Field Hospital still stands with who died on 10 September grave. Pictured is Spider at Association Standard for the its exterior walls displaying the 1916 age 22years. We were Gdsm Wilcoxon’s grave with North Wales Branch. After the scars of shrapnel from the war. very fortunate to have Stan the ‘Death Coin’. four of us conducted a very It is hard to comprehend the Evans with us, who has dignified ceremony at this We then called at Avril Williams’ volume of casualties in their devoted many years as the Officer’s grave, we proceeded many thousands that must dedicated curator of the Welsh café for some lunch and on to the site of the Sunken Road, have passed through this Guards Museum. He is an behalf of us all, Stan presented where 100 years ago, many facility. As a medic, I could only expert on the history of the her with a beautifully framed soldiers awaited for the order but try to imagine how Regiment and his knowledge and embroidered Welsh to advance on the first day of stretched to their limits those the battle. medics must have been. An elderly lady in her 90’s lives We conducted a ceremony at there now and the house was the Sunken Road and were owned by her father at the unexpectedly joined by a time of the battle. To add to the number of spectators who had atmosphere, it was a lovely stopped their vehicles from the surprise seeing a First World nearby road to watch what we War Field Hospital re- were doing. They seemed to enactment group in Royal appreciate our ceremony and it Army Medical Corps, Queen was lovely to add to their Alexandra Imperial Military experience of visiting the area. Nursing Service and We then proceeded to the Warwickshire Regt uniforms Guards Cemetery at Ginchy setting up camp on the village and paid our respects with green. These re-enactors soon another dignified ceremony.

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presented the Mayor of with a framed cross stitch of the Welsh Guards badge made by Anneka Langley to commemorate the centenary of the Somme. This was hugely appreciated by the Mayor and was met with warm enthusiastic applause by the guests. We concluded Spider’s presentation with the four of us bursting into song singing ‘We’ll keep a welcome in the hillside’. In the beautiful acoustic of this fine old hall, it sounded like there were 400 of us singing in harmony! That brought the whole room to its feet with a standing ovation. It was a very special moment. We were later informed that the Mayor had placed the presentation in his office stating that he was so touched by it that he wanted to ensure Guards badge as a token of exemplary bugle playing had commemorative dinner in a that the Welsh Guards would thanks for pointing us in the been heard by many and we beautiful old hall located in remain in the hearts of the right direction of Mailly Maillet were approached by the Arras’ Museum of Art in the people of Arras. We for accommodation. Chairman of the Somme presence of the Mayor of Arras. understand that he has We regarded this as a huge decided to conduct a regular By the time we returned to the Branch Royal British Legion honour and gratefully ceremony at the bronze Welsh village, word had got around asking if we would take an accepted the invitation. Guards memorial to that we had been holding active part in the village’s demonstrate his appreciation dignified ceremonies at key commemoration on 1 July. The Welsh Guards has a strong for what the Regiment did for locations around the Somme. We were also invited by him to association with Arras having his town. We were all delighted The sound of Kelvyn’s attend the Battle of the Somme fought there in both World to hear this news and were Wars. In the garden outside the humbled that a simple gesture hall where the dinner was held, by Spider had left a legacy in there is a large bronze plaque Arras that will hopefully in honour of the Welsh Guards. continue into the future. We conducted a ceremony here before the dinner. The following morning at 0728hrs, exactly 100 years The dinner started with from when the battle Greetings being read out from commenced, the four of us Her Majesty the Queen and were on parade on the church from the President of France steps in Mailly Maillet leading which emphasised the an Act of Remembrance with significance and prestigious Kelvyn playing the bugle to the nature of this event. Spider was sound of the re-enactors given the honour to toast the whistles and the sound of the memory of those who took church bells. Spider lowered part in the Battle of the Somme the Standard for the two and he then addressed the minutes’ silence before Kelvyn guests drawing their attention sounded Reveille and I recited to the links between the Welsh “They shall grow not old…” Guards and the town. He Later that morning, we

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participated in another service outside the church involving a full parade of re-enactors and local villagers. We were extremely fortunate to have Kelvyn on our trip who added something very special with his faultless bugle playing. As a result, he received the honour of being invited to play the bugle on the steps at Thiepval British War Memorial on 2 July for an official Royal British Legion ceremony. This was for a major commemoration in memory of the Irish Division where 2,000 guests were expected. Having completed the latter few years of his colour service in the Irish Guards Band, it was fitting and appropriate for Kelvyn to accept this invitation. He played Last Post and Reveille at Thiepval to an impeccably high standard making a real difference to the ceremony. I’m sure that his experience of playing for many years in state ceremonial events helped deliver a top class performance which he should be justifiably proud.

Our Pilgrimage sadly came to Guards in everything that they an end the following day and do and it was a real privilege after presenting our generous for me to accompany such hosts, Lilienne and Gillies with special people on such a an identical presentation to memorable trip. what we gave to Avril Williams, we returned to the UK with the The trip has inspired us to knowledge that we had travel to France and Belgium in experienced and contributed 2017 and again in 2018 to to something very special. mark other First World War centenary commemorations. The Welsh Guards family can In the meantime, I will try and be rightly proud of individuals find out if Spider’s claims that such as Spider, Stan and Kelvyn the initial disappointment who for many years have surrounding the hotel was a consistently represented the decoy to hide the fact that he Regiment and the Association had actually planned the best in a very positive light at home trip we could have ever wished and abroad. I have great for. respect towards them all for Well done Spider! Thank you their loyalty, pride and Stan and Kelvyn. commitment. They are true ambassadors for the Welsh Cymru am Byth!

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It is a bright and sunny day but German counter attack to the the Autumn sun is too weak to main beach landings. Rhydian lift the morning chill and most Vaughan (Rhyd) takes over as of us are wondering how best guide with his customary style: to recover an extra layer of a mixture of anecdotes, clothing from our suitcases in humorous aside and home the bowels of our coach. Tim baked tactical insights. We visit Pritchard-Barrett (Tim P-B), our Madame Arlette Gondree's battlefield guide, calls for our cafe at the bridge, she is a child attention and for an anxious of six at the time and her cafe, moment I expect him to say, wreathed with war "Right Mr de Zulueta, I'd like memorabilia is an obvious you to orientate us all to the choice for croissants and coffee ground". Reading maps and at €5 each. Almost everyone judging distance has never who visits the Normandy been my strong suit, though I battlefields goes to Pegasus always chuckle at the military Bridge, and most will pop into rituals of, "Look to your front, the cafe. Although it's late red roofed barn, go right, two September, I see two other o'clock from barn, lone tree, to coaches arriving as we leave. I be known as bushy topped look around to see if I can spot tree". Luckily, I'm not asked to Madame Gondree's well- perform and Tim P-B begins to appointed chateau. set the scene. I look around at Before lunch we find time to 1 my expectant tour colleagues - visit the Bayeux military it is a wonderful mix of past cemetery. Sir Frederick WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL and present Welsh Guardsmen, Kenyon's vision in 1918 was from Guardsman to General that a British cemetery should BATTLEFIELD TOUR and those loyal, generous and have the appearance and ALLIED INVASION OF well cut supporters of the reassurance of a well-kept Regiment - the Worshipful English garden. Some 4468 NORMANDY Company of Drapers. It is quite Servicemen rest there, Captain Paul de Zulueta a view from where we are including a number of German 28th September - 2nd October 2016 standing and easy to see why soldiers, many of whom were Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, just 17. A cemetery of this size t is nine o'clock in the morning and we are standing 500 charged by Hitler with can almost seem impersonal Ifeet above sea level at Rommel's water tower near the "Throwing the Allies back into so I stand by the grave of a Town of Colombelles. the sea", chose this spot to Welsh Guardsman, Guardsman review his limited options. Thomas Alcock who was killed Context is important on a aged 19, just four days after D- Battlefield Tour and Tim P-B Day and offer a prayer in his reminds us all of how Europe memory. The Visitor’s looked in June 1944. More than Remembrance book at the 70 years on, we can still sense cemetery's entrance contains that this is one of mankind's the usual well-meant big moments. There is no time comments: “Why?” and "We to lose as we make our way to must never allow war again”. those emotionally laden place Though one comment, “Well names of Pegasus Bridge, the done, keep it up lads” seems Merville Battery and Juno bizarre. beach. We marvel at the flying skills of the glider pilots who, In the warmth of the late flying from Dorset in the dead midday sun, we eat a simple of night, land Major John lunch of crunchy baguettes, Howard and his men within 50 foie gras, salami, French yards of the bridge, sealing off cheeses and grapes washed the ever present threat of a down with a crate of Rose and 2

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Normandy cider. After lunch, Rhyd and Tim P-B injectsome realism into the Tour - 'the fog and chaos of war ' – and arrange for our transport to break down. It's a tiresome four hour delay but not without its consolations as, after a poor night's sleep on the ferry and Reveille at 4.45am, most of us are content to get our heads down on the stranded coach. Our hotel in Bayeux arranges for a school bus to pick us up and so, after a wasted but restful afternoon, we arrive in Bayeux at 6pm. Unlike Caen, which the Allies controversially flattened in June 1944, Bayeux is a stylish town, easy on the eye andrich in culture. The cathedral, consecrated in 1077 in the presence of William the 3 Conqueror, sits in the Town's degree cinema. This shows Saving Private Ryan, voted as way behind thefront line. A centre and looks its best at remarkable and original war the finest war film evermade. brave man, I suspect, who night, beautifully lit and just a footage from D-Day and the Rhyd shows the film's travelled up to his infantry little eerie. days after. It's very moving as it extraordinary 14 minute comrades to bring fresh bread French town planners, unlike shows not only combat scenes opening sequence on the and was hit byGerman mortar our Town Councils, know that but how the invasion affected coach's video. Tim P-B, who is fire.We walk down to the beach simplicity and elegance works local families and their American on his Mother's side, and look back at the cliffs that best and keeps the 'street children. Our next stop is the does the events at Omaha run along this five mile stretch furniture' to a minimum. German war cemetery at La great justice with knowledge of coast. Tim P-B tellsus that Thatevening, we do our own Cambe. Rhyd, who briefs us at and emotionalintelligence. there were between 120 and thing, no cliques, but enjoy the the cemetery's entrance, says First, the cemetery hits you 150 German machine guns company of foie gras, steak that how a country buries its straight between the eyes. firing along their longest axis ' frites, ripe camembert, vin war dead tells us a lot about Whether it's the 9,387 in enfilade'. UStroops had rouge and calvados. The young the country and its culture. I'm gravestones made of Italian embarked 12 miles out in their Officers and Guardsmen, not not sure; I think it tells you how Carrera marble, the geometric in a swollen sea. spoken for, strike a rich local a country sees the war. On precision of the layout over 70 US records suggest they lost seam on Tinder (for those born French wargraves it says, 'Mort acres, or its position on the 2,500 menon the assault, but before 1980, this is a casual Pour La France' (died for bluff overlooking Omaha Tim P-B thinks it's closer to hook up social media site France). The German WW2 beach, the cemetery, through 5,000. We walk back to the which hoovers up available grave could never say 'Died for its sheer scale, tells you how coach lost in our own thoughts women within 5kms - actually Germany' as they gave up their America sees WW2 and its andmore than just a little a minibus of Norwegian lives for a murderous, Nazi magnificent contribution to thankful. As we travel back to women). We have a new coach regime. The German cemetery the Allies victory. Bayeux, I notice that people for Day 2 and set off at 9 o'clock at La Cambe contains 22,000 remain in quiet and personal I stand by the grave of Pte for Arromanches and the 360 dead. It has a melancholy contemplation. rigour about it; no flowers, Charles Smith, QM's bakery US The next morning, Tom Bonas, dark granite stone. One grave 1st Infantry Division 'The Big our much respected 1. The view of Bayeaux Cathedral says aged 16; another aged 72. Red'. I wonder about how from the Tour Party's hotel. Smith died, as the Divisional Regimental Adjutant, looks 2. The Tour Party at Omaha We all have high expectations bakery must have been some grave as he approaches me Beach looking back towards of our next venue: Omaha the Bluffs where 150 German Beach and the American machine guns were positioned Its sheer scale, tells you how America in enfilade. cemetery. I wonder if it's 3. Captain Vaughan briefing the because most of have seen sees WW2 and its magnificent Tour Party at Omaha Cemetery. Steven Spielberg's classic film contribution to the Allies victory.

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Guardsman's grave, but my eye catches a rare gravestone. It is of a German Jew, Erhard Alentein, who escapes from Germany before war breaks out, changes his name to Edward Andrews, and dies fighting with the on August 10th 1944. Our last stand, which Tim P-B describes beautifully, is the fighting involving The Guards Armoured Division and our Second Battalion which results in the death of the artist, Rex Whistler,one of our most loved sons, from a mortar round. We visit his grave at Banneville - La - Campagne. The cemetery's entrance, with its long tree framed avenue leading to the The Tour Party at the cemetery at Banneville La Campagne where Rex Whistler is buried gravestones, the sun glinting on the autumn leaves, seems tucking into my breakfast briefings from Tim P-B on Arthur Conan Doyle's poem, God given for such a dazzling croissants. For some reason I and the The Guards Came Through. artist. There is half an hour to blurt out, tank battle at Villers – Bocage The day finishes with our Gala kill before we embark at which, had our coach arrived, “Morning Tom, cock up on the dinner at the Lion d' Or hotel. Oustrieham so we all walk we would have visited. Tim P-B coach front?” Our Regimental Lieutenant down to the sea at Sword tells some rather good Colonel, Major General Richard “How did you know?”he says. anecdotes about the Beach where our Third Infantry Stanford, closes a terrific Regiment's important Division landed on D-Day. “Just a hunch from an evening with well-chosen contribution, including that of There is not a cloud in the sky overheard conversation last Major Sir Richard Powell, who words and thanks to those and we marvel as a night!”I respond. “Well, you're lying concussed in a ditch,has who have made the trip such a Frenchwoman, well into her spot on”. his silver cigarette case stolen success. We have 11 NCOs and 80s, strides purposefully into We all gather to discuss and by a German soldier. On Guardsmen from the Battalion the sea. I wonder if, as a young agree Plan B. It all pans out regaining consciousness, a with us, and General Richard girl, she was a witness to that surprisingly well as I suspect German officer asksPowell rightly praises them as momentous day. most of us welcomed a change examples of why the Regiment how he's faring. Sir Richard As the ferry pulls away from of pace from the trauma of informs the Officer that one of remains a source of pride and the harbour, I congratulate Tim Omaha. Bayeux, with its his men stole his cigarette case. optimism to so many. I look P-B and Rhyd for giving us all famous Tapestry, the The German Officer is furious, across to where CSgt John such a jolly and worthwhile Cathedral, the new WW2 finds out who the culprit is and McEvoy is sitting. Not an easy time, and all in the , cafes and knocks him out with one start in life, he is the youngest family. I think we all feel a lot charcuteries is as good place as punch. The Battalion's mortar Colour Sergeant in the British better for the experience. We any in which to while away a officer, Captain Adam Smith, Army and about to go to are fortunate in our strong day. The sun continuesto bless speaks about the 81mm Sandhurst to train Officer us.Of course, we have to have mortar and the devastating Cadets. The Services remain a links with the Drapers' some military input so we all effect of mortar fire which powerful engine for social Company whose members on gathered at 1130 in the accounts forso many mobility. It is our final day and this trip were such good Churchill Hotel, where most of casualties in WW2. I finish the we have until 4pm when we company.Our final thanks to us were staying, to hear briefing with a rendition of are to embark on our ferry our Regimental Lieutenant back to Portsmouth. Tim P-B Colonel, General Richard The German Officer is furious, finds and Rhyd take us first to Stanford, and our Regimental Ranville cemetery where many Adjutant,Colonel Tom Bonas, out who the culprit is and knocks him Welsh Guardsmen rest. without whose support, no trip out with one punch. Usually, I stand at a Welsh would have been possible.

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he annual Welsh Guards day at the races is now very Captain Peter Hastings played Major General Spencer-Smith Tfirmly part of the Regimental calendar. The first race rugby for The Army but racing was a member of a Tattersalls day was in 1999 at Bangor-on-Dee and for the following was his life. His father had committee, Major Vere-Nicoll five years it was at Hereford and then in 2005 we went to trained three Grand National on his horse Ballverine twice where we are now firmly established. winners and he followed suit won the Grand Military Gold in 1953 and trained over 300 Cup and Major W D Gibson on winners. His son-in-law Ian The 17th Race Day in May 2016 celebrates its Centenary this Klaxton won it four times. Balding, father of Claire, followed the usual pattern, year regularly plays at Epsom, reserved tables in the Royal Ascot, Kempton Park and succeeded him at the stables Welsh Guardsmen, their ladies, grandstand, a good lunch, bar at Longchamps for the Prix de in Kingsclere and trained over friends and families will be off and for those watching from L’Arc de Triomphe. 2000 winners. to the races again in May. the balcony facilities to place Some will back winners, others The racecourse with the Brigadier J C Windsor Lewis bets and for the lucky few a strongest connection to the rode in the Grand National losers but everyone will have a place to collect their winnings. Regiment is Sandown Park, before the Second World War, great day. A Welsh Guards day. It is another Association event, Esher where the Training a gathering of Welsh Battalion was stationed in both Guardsmen, their ladies and world wars. In more recent friends and a golden times we have got to know opportunity to enjoy a day at Ludlow Racecourse and in the races, generally in glorious 1999 and 2009 held sunshine. We sponsor one of Association Biennial Dinners the races, named The Welsh there. Guards Association Handicap, Lieutenant Colonel Charles the owner of the winning Stephens was Regimental horse is presented with a silver Adjutant when the Race Day statuette of a Full Sergeant, was launched in 1999. The and there is also a prize for the holder of a permit to train groom of the best turned out horses, he rode in many races horse which is decided by the and won the Household ladies who judge the runners Division point to point on the in the paddock. Major General’s charger which Captain David Davies has he describes as “an Army issue organised the day since the horse!” first and was very pleased with Two renowned Regimental the attendance this year and riders were Captains Anthony the continued support. A Day Mildmay and Peter Cazalet who at the Races in Shropshire is a served together in the 2nd delight, and some regulars like Battalion. Captain Mildmay the London Branch stay in a rode in the Grand National nearby hotel thus making a before and after the Second week-end of it. World War and among his The Regiment’s links with thirty-two wins were eight at racing have been many and Cheltenham. Captain Cazalet varied, riding, training and played County cricket and owning horses while the owned and trained horses and Regimental Band which rode in three Nationals.

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1

30096369 Lance Corporal 1. Battalion Boxing Squad. HONOURING THE REGIMENT’S Jamie Ryan coach of the L/Corporal Ryan, 2016 Sportsman of the Year is stood SPORTSMEN Battalion boxing team. to the left of the Commanding Roy Lewis Officer. After coaching for five years he 2. Lance Sergeant David Bowen, is currently the head coach for he Monmouthshire Branch Trophy for the Welsh the first Sportsman of the Year. the Household Division team Guards Sportsman of the Year was first awarded in T and under him the Welsh 1968 to a rugby player, Lance Sergeant David Bowen, a Guards boxing team has prop forward who played for The Army and London produced outstanding results Welsh. and became the 2016 Household Division Rugby dominated the early was Sergeant Edward Mills Champions. Captain Butler, days of the Trophy, four of the who cycled from Bosnia to Boxing Officer, said of him, “He first six winners David Bowen, Calais, paddled the Channel in Brian Neck, Don Hearne and a kyak, ran the equivalents of got each boxer to believe in Chris Seldon gained distinction three marathons to London himself, he took the time to in Army rugby, but in 1984 a and cycled from Wellington understand each boxer’s tennis player Sergeant Paul Barracks to North Wales, all for individual needs and Weaver was the winner and six charity. differences and was years later the award was passionate about what he was If there had been a Sportsman made to Guardsman Marc doing.” A worthy Sportsman of of the Year award in 1955 Wheeler a martial arts undoubtedly it would have the Year in a Regiment famous exponent. gone to boxer Sergeant Alf for its sporting achievements In 1988 Lance Corporal Bierton Bray the Army Heavyweight and the first coach to win the was recognised for his Champion, but the Regiment’s award Jamie Ryan is also the achievements in rugby, hockey, tradition in the sport is still first to be presented with the basketball and athletics. alive. The 2016 Welsh Guards new Monmouthshire Branch Another worthy winner in 2007 Sportsman of the Year is Trophy. 2

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TOWN REMEMBERS ITS FALLEN SONS Kelvyn Jenkins (late Band of the Welsh Guards.) n Sunday 7th August, the people of Hay-on-Wye Ocame together to pay their respects to the local men who fell during the Battles of Jutland and of the Somme in 1916.

The occasion took the form of a WO1 Paul Willetts, RN. parade, led by Swansea City Red roses were then laid by Pipe Band, and included family members and others veterans both from the local connected to the 12 fallen, to area and from all over Wales, the swelling strains of Herefordshire and Shropshire. “Nimrod” from Elgar’s “Enigma Also present were the Royal Variations”, performed by the British Legion Military Riders, brass band. various re-enactment groups and a spectacular display of 35 A Guard of Honour was formed Standards, representing by the Welsh Guards recruiting various branches of the Royal team in their tunics and British Legion, Naval bearskins and the World War I Association, the RAFA re-enactment group, the Association and other Army Warwickshire Regiment. Many associations, including four thanks go to both these Standards of the Welsh Guards groups, whose role added a Association – our thanks go particular poignancy to the out to all who took part. occasion. Included in the afternoon’s Kelvyn Jenkins, WGA member, proceedings were who had the initial idea for the contributions from Rhayader’s remembrance and who Voices in Unity Choir and a organised all the proceedings, brass band under the direction said the event was a great of Mr Hugh Williams from success, with several hundred Brecon, while local helpers attendees, including two manned the RBL stand, selling pensioners of the Royal gifts and souvenirs to raise Hospital who had made the funds for the Poppy Appeal. trip especially to take part. A Service of Remembrance was ‘This day’, along with the conducted by Padre Ann from remembrance we held last Hereford and wreaths were year to mark the deployment laid, among others, by the Hon. of the Hay Territorials to Aden Dame Shan Legge Bourke in 1915, were both huge DCVO, Lord Lieutenant for successes and much Powys; Chris Davies, MP for appreciated by those who Brecon and Radnor; Kirsty were there. To follow up this Williams AM for Mid and West enthusiasm, plans are afoot, Wales; the Chairman and for 2018, to mark the end of President of Hay and District World War I. So, one for your Royal British Legion and Mr diaries ladies and gentlemen, Kim Hibberd on behalf of the is Sunday, 5th August 2018 Welsh Guards Assocation. The from 12.30pm. We hope to wreath to commemorate the welcome as many Association Battle of Jutland was laid by members there as possible.

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used in our existence. I suppose one exception might be the Statton prints produced in 1975 to commemorate our 75th anniversary. Produced by Statton they were an artistic impression of all things uniform. However, these were never precise examples of the many items now long forgotten. Many discussions have taken place between collectors, dealers and self appointed experts about what was and what wasn’t. So 1 where possible, we base our people were my first Platoon knowledge on photographs. I THE WELSH GUARDS Commander and first Platoon have included a few recent COLLECTION Sergeant in the Junior pieces for our readers to enjoy. S T Evans, Curator Guardsman’s Company 1960. It was Up until 2007 and the new ESTABLISHED 1995 suggested by Brigadier Johnny issue of the Warrant Officer’s President: Brigadier J.F.Rickett. CBE to call it ‘The Welsh Guards buff and sword belt lockets it was the general consensus Chairman: Col. T.Bonas Collection’ That was 21 years ago and so I think we can say that a W.O.’s lockets were the Treasurer: Mr J.O.Willams with confidence that we have same size and pattern as that Secretary: RQMS S.O’Brien most definitely ‘Come of age’ of Other Ranks but with the female buckle (WELSH GUARDS) Curator: Mr S.T.Evans. Cartref ni, 44 Crossfield Avenue, As I look back on every one of being plated silver or chromed. Winsford, Cheshire. CW7 1EG. those years, it is with In actual fact on the now very Tel; 01606 593953. amazement that we have been famous photograph of the E mail [email protected] able to recover in the way of 1920 Battalion staff pictured in uniforms, equipment and Wellington Barracks, three OUR COMING OF AGE archive that we now have. Senior Warrant Officers WO1 Although the concept of a Welsh Guards Collection came There have been many ‘highs’ RSM W.Stevenson, (Reg No 1) and every now and then the to me in 1993 it wasn’t until June 1995 I’d built up enough WO2 J/D/Sgt S.J.Dunkley (Reg odd ‘low points’ An example of No 351) and WO2 S/D/Sgt P.H. items and artefacts and courage to approach certain a high is when you have been people with a suggestion to create a museum of sorts to Roberts (Reg No 15) can be able to secure an item of huge seen (you will need a good display these items in a way that would educate people significance to our history magnifying glass) wearing a into the life and history of our Regiment. before it otherwise might have slightly smaller design with the ended up in a skip because no Top of the list was the then (Rtd) Brian Morgan MBE who shoulders of the lockets more one really knew its importance curved or arched. The width of President of the Welsh Guards had recently retired after 38 or rarity. A low, when one has a sword belt is slightly Association, Brigadier (Rtd) years service in the Welsh not been able to successfully narrower than O.R.’s. On a Johnny Rickett OBE and Lt/Col Guards. Ironically, these two bid for an item sold on an photograph taken in 1975 of internet auction site, especially the Sergeants’ Mess bidding when it goes to America or farewell to HRH Prince Philip , never to be seen again. on leaving the Welsh Guards to But the highs far out way the take up Colonel of The lows. Grenadier Guards before HRH We have often uncovered Prince Charles Prince of Wales items of uniform and took over, the CSM of POW’s embellishments that no one Company is WO2 Len Davies seems to remember. There has (23523062), who is wearing never been, to our knowledge, the very same first Issue a regulation issued covering lockets. Len still has that set of every item we have worn or lockets to date. It is stamped 2

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on the rear to signify the third mint condition, having never set ever made. I wonder who been issued. It makes you had Stevo’s? wonder how many more items of uniform are still out there in In recent years, an unused a suitcase in someone’s loft or pristine set of these lockets basement. I think the highlight were purchased off the of our achievements here was internet auction site by two years ago when The Army (22831407) ex Drummer Boy, Museums Ogilvy trust (AMATO) Guardsman and career granted us accreditation Policeman Ken Hughes an status. This stamp of approval ardent collector of Brigade of will and has already made a Guards ephemera and who huge difference to our has kindly allowed me to accepted status within the photograph the items Army Museums across the U.K. included. Over the years Ken When items become surplus to has been very generous to the other Museums, we are 3 Collection and assures me that included in the offers of these treasures will come back artefacts and display items. An home eventually. example was earlier in the year Another badge that causes Rob Edwards 52 and myself much discussion is the1939 travelled down to Hythe to the issue Foreign Service helmet Museum of the REME, who were undergoing a move to device/badge. Usually referred another site after receiving NHL to as the pagaree badge. The funding, to give us some lovely pagaree or pugaree is the cloth display cabinets. One of which, wound around the base of the we are now in the process of helmet. Another point of building an account of our two discussion is the amount of tours of Afghanistan. I hope to times this material was have them completed by the wrapped around the helmet, beginning of next season. ie, three wraps for the Scots 4 etc, but I can assure you there One of the down sides to of our Regimental crest. It is was no difference to indicate running a Museum staffed approximately 6" x 4"and any particular Regiment. What only by volunteers. We are all doesn’t have any means of we do know, from evidence getting older and some have supporting itself in the way of taken from black and white found it difficult to commit clips or screws. It will be photographs during the short their spare time any more. interesting to see if we can time they were used in Recruitment of new staff is, to discover what it was made for 1939 before be honest, a nightmare and when. Please give me a embarking to France at the because we try to stay open 5 call and I look forward to outbreak of the 2nd WW, is the or 6 hours a day 7 days a week. hearing from you. Besides Welsh Guardsmen we sizes of Officers and O.R’s were Warmest regards are blessed with some very the same. It would have had a Stan 67. slider at the rear to fasten special ex servicemen and 5 behind the pagaree, and, civilians who, without their continued support I have to because there weren’t any 1. The top three W.O.’s and colour photographs, we can admit we could not stay open. Adjt, WAFL Fox-Pitt 1999. only surmise O.R’s were So, without sounding too 2. First Issue 1919. much like a stuck record, if you relieved and a small patch of 3. One of several ideas, red material secured behind find you could help us out as 14K gold plated and enamelled. and the Officers’ ones would far as manning is concerned I 4. An unknown new badge would dearly love to hear from probably have been hot fired alongside a Drum Major’s you. It is a labour of love. badge, 1945 - 2000. enamel. Ken again, has kindly 5. A Worseley foreign service allowed me to photograph an Finally you may be able to help helmet, circa 1929, Cairo. exhibit he recent purchased me. The last photograph shows 6. Unknown Regimental from abroad. This exhibit is in a pressed copper early pattern copper plate. 6

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1 1. CWGC Cemetary at Bourg Leopold. THE ASSOCIATION 2. Brig. Johhny presenting Dorus with a copy of the Regimental BATTLEFIELD TOUR Colours. 3. Battlefield Tour Group. 10TH – 14TH SEPTEMBER 2016 4. Brig. Johnny, having a ‘Sax’ lesson. Brigadier Rickett CBE e all made it to the RV at Pirbright on time on the Wmorning of 10th September, and after a long and very tiring journey, thankfully not disrupted by French lorry drivers, who had threatened to block all motorways around Calais; we arrived safely at The Watermolen, our lovely hotel at Bocholt.

The first thing we did was to church, conducted in Flemish present Dorus, the owner of and English, and accompanied the hotel, with a mounted by an excellent young but miniature copy of the professional sounding Regimental Colours, in orchestra, we marched to the appreciation for all he has town cemetery, where wreaths done for the Welsh Guards were laid in the usual manner. Association in the past. He This was followed by speeches appeared extremely moved given by the Mayor and replied and emotional, and by the time to by Brigadier Rickett, where we arrived for breakfast the the Sherman Tank has been following morning, the Colours placed in the centre of the had pride of place on the wall town. We were then given a near Reception. wonderful barbecued lunch The welcome we received at with lots of wine before we all Hechtel on Sunday morning rolled off to complete the was quite outstanding and ceremonies of the day at the after the lovely service at the CWGC Cemetery at Bourg 2

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3 Leopold and in the woods CWGC Cemetery at Hotton and around Hechtel, where followed the German advance members of the Belgian as far as Celles, where there is a Resistance and two RAF crew Panther tank outside a cafe, members had been shot in appropriately called "the tank!” 1944. All this had only been denoting the high water mark made possible by the ‘Mayor's of the German offensive. Finally Pass’ hung on the mirror of the we looked at a small memorial bus, as if going on to a ferry, on the River Meuse at Dinant, since the roads all around the showing the extent of the area had been closed due to a operations carried out by very noisy Air Show, which Skorzeny's patrols, which had took place throughout the created quite a lot of havoc afternoon. behind the Allied lines throughout the battle. The next two days were devoted to touring the Our final evening was spent in Ardennes to study the Battle of an excellent restaurant in the Bulge, where we followed Dinant, outside of which there Kampfgruppe Peiper's is a monument to honour advance during the first three Adolphe Sax, who invented the days of the battle in 1944, saxophone, for which Dinant is which included seeing a King so famous. After much singing Tiger tank in pristine condition. and bonhomie we retired to On the second day we bed, utterly exhausted before followed the events at sadly returning to Pirbright Bastogne, the sealing of the very early the next day. We had "Bulge" at Houfelaze by the 1st been blessed by the most and 3rd US Armies and the wonderful weather actions carried out by the throughout the tour, which British 30th Corps during this certainly helped to keep long battle. We visited the morale sky high. 4

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Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant both killed in action on 8 June THE LLANELLI of Dyfed, Miss Sarah Elinor 1982 on Sir Galahad, Falklands WAR MEMORIAL Edwards, unveiled the Campaign. memorial in the presence of The Regiment was represented Major John Harding senior representatives from all by a uniformed detachment President of the Llanelli Branch three armed services; the MP from the Battalion; Brian Keane for Llanelli Nia Griffith: the the Secretary General of the he Unveiling and Dedication Ceremony of the new Mayor of Llanelli and other Association, and Mrs Sandra TLlanelli War Memorial to commemorate the lives of local dignitaries together with fifteen Llanelli servicemen killed in action in various Keane; eleven members of the many former servicemen and Llanelli & theatres of war since the end of the Second World War other members of the public Branch of the Association took place on Friday 4th November 2016 at the Memorial including Mr Ian Kirkpatrick, including the President (who Garden Llanelli. the moving force and fund laid a wreath on behalf of the raiser behind this project, Welsh Guards), the Hon. whose son Cpl. Jamie Secretary Alan Cunningham, Kirkpatrick was killed in the Hon. Treasurer Vernon Afghanistan while serving with Jones and Andrew Brown who the Royal Engineers. carried the Branch Standard. The Revd. Aled Huw Thomas, Other members of the Llanelli former Senior Army Chaplain, Branch attending the Wales dedicated the memorial ceremony were Roy Copson, and the Welcome Address and Howard Davies, Tony Davies, Kohima Epitaph were delivered Ken Frederickson, Glyn Jones, by Lt. Col (Retd.) DA Mathias DL. David Stacey and Dai Thomas. The two Welsh Guardsmen whose names are now inscribed on the memorial’s Attended but not in picture Roll of Honour are L/Cpl. NDM Brian & Sandra Keane also Thomas and Gdsm. EJ Phillips Ken & Margaret Fredrickson.

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GILBERT PRIDDY - 100 NOT OUT! Roy Lewis ilbert Priddy (2736881) was born in the Rhondda GValley on June 2nd 1916. His father who died when Gilbert was seven years of age and his brother were miners and Gilbert joined them in Cambrian Colliery, Clydach Vale when he was fourteen.

He worked underground for Depot, Caterham. He was four years, suffered three demobilised in 1946, returned accidents at the coal face and to his former employers in decided to leave and take up a Resolven and then worked for a friend’s offer to join him in company in Avonmouth before 1 Luton as a painter and transferring to Henry Willcock & decorator working on private Co where he worked for 32 and commercial premises. years as a painter, retiring in 1981. The company Gilbert says His next move to Resolven near “built cathedrals, libraries, Neath was a major turning factories, universities, point in his life, he worked at a warehouses, hotels, banks, new aluminium works as a schools, shops and hospitals.” painter and decorator and it was there that he met his future Having settled in Bristol Gilbert wife. They married in 1941 became active in the South West when Gilbert was Guardsman England Branch of the Priddy having enlisted in June Association and in the 1950s 1940. was its Treasurer. Thanks to the friendship and support of He joined the 3rd Battalion and 2 Mervyn Delve, chairman of the in February 1943 went to Monmouthshire Branch of the Tunisia, a land of rugged Association and his wife Gill mountains, rocky hills on which who also live in the Bristol area, defenders had an advantage Gilbert regularly attends over opponents greater in meetings and functions of the numbers. There were to be Branch. He often meets with many battles ahead and Gilbert another 3rd Battalion man, Bill remembers his first which he Powell (2739251) of , says was his hardest, Fondouk. close friends who vividly recall In February 1944 the Battalion with pride their time with a landed in Naples and four days famous Battalion formed in the later were in action at Monte war and disbanded shortly Cerasola the summit of which after it ended. was described as “a confused On the 2nd of June 2016, 3 mass of bare rocks.” Gilbert was Mervyn and Gill, Bill Powell, wounded in the left leg by 1. The Regimental Party on Steve Liversage, Roy Lewis and Gilbert’s great day. The 100 shrapnel and spent three Ron Oliver of the Branch with year old is second from the months in hospitals in Naples left. Association Secretary General and on the Adriatic Coast before 2. On a sunny day, Gilbert is Brian Keane and three serving returning to Britain where he escorted by Mervyn Delve to Guardsmen in tunic order was treated in and his right and Steve Liversage to represented the Regiment at his left. convalesced in Stoke on Trent. Gilbert’s home to celebrate his 3. Steve Liversage presents the birthday cake to Gilbert, whose He then went to the Training 100th birthday. It was a great 4 3rd Battalion friend, Bill Powell Battalion at Sandown Park occasion and BBC West is on his left. Racecourse, Esher and finally as television and Radio Bristol were 4. The very special Centenary a Full Sergeant to the Guards there to cover a memorable day. cake.

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WALK ON WALES 2016 Second Lieutenant G F Elletson Officer Commanding Number Five Platoon, Number Two Company

he Walk on Wales concept was dreamt up by two Tveteran Welsh Guards, Jan Koops and David (Dai) Graham, both of whom served in the Falklands War.

As a result, Jan and Dai are ready to receive the weary at keenly aware of the the next campsite. devastating impact that active Wednesday 8 June was service can have on soldiers particularly poignant for many and their families, as they cope in attendance as it marked the with bereavement, life- 34th anniversary of the changing injuries or the long- bombing of the Sir Galahad. term effects of psychological 1 The walkers stopped for a trauma. The vision for Walk on short moment of reflection on Wales is: the way to Hay-on-Wye and • to remember and shared some words about the acknowledge the importance of remembering contribution of the 50 Welsh those that were killed and Guardsmen who have died wounded on the ship. on active service since the To emphasise the importance end of World War II, and of remembrance, a baton • to create a legacy today for commissioned to the veterans of tomorrow, commemorate all Welsh by raising £1 million for the Guardsmen who have been Welsh Guards Afghanistan killed since 1945, was carried Appeal and Combat Stress. throughout the event. This baton was carried across the This year’s walk started world in 2015 as part of the Monday 6 June at Sedbury Regiment’s centenary Cliffs with a long walk through celebrations, Welsh Guards the hills of the Wye Valley. The 100. walkers were joined on this leg 2 The Walk ended in Prestatyn by the Regimental Adjutant, Friday 17 June. The following who set the pace from the start day the expedition was and provided an update on finished with a church service Regimental news. Everyone in Wrexham to honour those was welcomed into the who were killed and wounded Monmouth campsite by in The Falklands War. currently serving members of Number Two Company. Under the supervision of Lance Sergeant Small, Guardsmen 1. Second Lieutenant Elletson, Dean, Sullivan and Turner were Lance Sergeant Small and Guardsmen Sullivan and on hand to set up tents, tend Turner with the Regimental to blisters, prepare hot drinks Adjutant and the rest of the and provide moral support. group before they began their This developed into a pattern journey along Offa’s Dyke. throughout the twelve days of 2. The Regimental Adjutant with Members of Walking Wales walking with every morning leaving . seeing the team pack up and 3. Jan Koops and members of the leapfrog so that they were team near Welshpool. 3

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through the rounds and which the Chief Constable SOUTH WALES POLICE cheered on by all with Alison’s attended, who, along with CHARITY BOXING EVENT close support. Major Salisbury also laid a wreath on Remembrance day. WO1 (RSM) CA Taylor The event was a great success and a fantastic amount of The Welsh Guards Charity. South Wales Police Charity Boxing event takes place money raised by the fighters, With the cessation of British each year to support a number of Charities, one of the donation and the auction A Army combat operations in that took place on the evening. them being the Welsh Guards Afghanistan Appeal as part Afghanistan the Regimental The RSM was proud to accept a of the Welsh Guards Charity. Trustees and with it the cheque on behalf of the attendance and represented establishment of one single On Sat 12 Nov 2016 the event Regiment by the event the Battalion suitably charity (as opposed to three) in took place at the Vale Hotel, led organiser Gareth Owens. by Gareth Owens, the event An impressive display of 2014 called the Welsh Guards organiser and supported courage from all fighters A short speech took place to Charity, the Trustees believed it heavily by Stuart and Alison pictured above that stepped reinforce the relationship of the would be more appropriate to Elson. into the ring to all in the name South Wales Police Force and focus any future fund raising the Welsh Guards after many away from Afghanistan to of Charity. One of the Awards The Regimental Sergeant Major that have served since 1915. wider Regimental welfare. among others was the ‘Dane was invited to attend assisted During WW1 93 police officers Welfare funds either from the Elson Memorial Trophy’ by LCpl Armstrong, who transferred into the Battalion WG Charity or the WGAA are pictured. played the Last Post and many of these gave the still directed to those in need, impressively on the Bugle in The very first bout was led by ultimate sacrifice. The whether having served in Ceremonial Guard order prior Stuart ‘The Falcon’ Elson who Centennial of the Welsh Guards Afghanistan, , Bosnia, NI, to the start of the boxing which was key in the build-up and was also mentioned with the the Falkland’s or other added a dignified significance training of the team and links to the Rugby match operations. Tens of thousands to the remembrance weekend. demonstrating one of the between the Welsh Guards and have been dispersed this year LCpl Morgan and Gdsm values of Leadership,’ Lead by the South Wales Police, the already on a wide variety of Williams 63 were also in Example’, bravely fighting Presentation of New Colours in needs. Examples have included

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the provision of wheelchairs, home improvements for WG disabled personnel WIA from Afghanistan, payment for civilian courses to allow medically discharged WG to gain employment in civy street, respite holidays and weekend breaks for bereaved families, support to funerals, travel expenses for wounded not covered by MOD. The Welsh Guards Centenary 2015 Special

Events website gives the 1 formal objectives of the WG Charity and quotes from those who have received help, In addition given the generosity of so many, the Regiment have since Feb 14 been able to employ a full time Regimental Casualties officer. He is a former WG WO2, Jiffy Myers with wide experience on welfare matters whilst serving and was awarded the MBE for his output and welfare achievements whilst serving with the battalion and particularly for the battalions first operational tour to Afghanistan. He has made a huge difference in supporting our wounded and bereaved and now has 120 former and serving WG on his books who 2 he is in contact with. Any support received will go to continue those in the Regiment in need, whether physically or mentally affected by operations.

Finally, a mention of what the Battalion are now focussed towards, and that is of course a 1. The Dane Elson Memorial transition to their new role of Trophy. Light Mechanised Infantry and 2. Stuart ‘The Falcon’ Elson. the Very High readiness to 3. The Regimental Sergeant deploy where ever we are Major WO1 Carl Taylor picture with his wife Tracey, Stuart needed from 1 Mar 2017. and Alison Elson. 3

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Welfare Officer is their first provided grants for are as THE WELSH GUARDS point of contact with regards follows: to any welfare matters. For CHARITY AND REGIMENTAL • Home adaptations to those who are no longer support injured or serving, their dependents and WELFARE SUPPORT handicapped veterans and Mr Jiffy Myers our bereaved families, the spouses. Regimental Veterans Officer is Regimental Veterans Officer • Respite breaks for bereaved their first point of contact. he aim of this article is to inform you about how the families. The Regiment provides Regiment supports its serving soldiers, veterans, • Transport costs for injured T financial support by issuing dependents and bereaved families. soldiers, veterans and grants from either the Welfare bereaved families. There are a number of ways in The objectives of the Charity Fund or Afghanistan Appeal, to • Disability aids. which Welfare Support is are: organisations in support of • National Memorials and provided. The first is through 1. To promote the efficiency individuals who are in need. At pilgrimages. the Welsh Guards Charity - of the Welsh Guards. the time of writing, since Registered Charity Number: January 2016, the Regiment • Essential household items. 2. To commemorate or 1152766 has provided 56 grants, remember members or • Food vouchers. totaling £48,106. The Welsh Guards Charity former members of the • Accommodation costs. assessments for these grants Welsh Guards. • Medical costs. The Welsh Guards Charity has are, in most cases, carried out two main funds. The Welfare 3. To relieve persons serving by external charities e.g. SSAFA • Course – Re-training fees Fund and Afghanistan Appeal. or who have served in the and The Royal British Legion. for injured Veterans. Income is generated in a Welsh Guards and their Applications are processed • Essential housing repairs. number of different ways. It dependents in need, through the COBSEO Case To apply for financial support regularly receives donations hardship or distress. Management system. The from the Regiment, contact the from fundraising, the Soldier’s 4. To advance the education Welsh Guards Charity provides Unit Welfare Officer (for those One Day’s Pay Scheme, of the public in the grants alongside other Service serving) or the Regimental businesses and other history, deeds, traditions Charities, working together in Veterans Officer. Alternatively, organisations. The Regiment and role of the Welsh support of an individual’s contact SSAFA or the Royal also has a portfolio of Guards. needs. investments from past British Legion and ask for a donations. These investments To achieve the above All of the applications are caseworker to be allocated. objectives, the Regiment provide a financial return, treated with the strictest of Members of the Corps of Drums allowing the Regiment to provides welfare support in a confidence and are not helping out with alterations to an provide support for the years number of different ways. For published. Some examples of injured Veteran’s home, funded by to come. those who are serving, the Unit what the Regiment has the Welsh Guards Charity.

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1 2 Regimental Veterans Officer in retirement homes and The RVO has assisted Welsh serving soldiers. Some visits Guardsmen find The Regimental Veterans are just a friendly chat but accommodation, employment Officer is a role that is funded opportunities, funding for by the Regiment to support all others are for referring courses, specialist medical veterans of the Welsh Guards, individuals for specialist treatment, grants for essential their dependents and treatment or support etc. items and provides a listening Bereaved families. Initially The RVO’s work is usually ear for those who just want a called the Regimental confidential. However, in chat. Some soldiers that leave Casualties Officer, it was August this year a case was the Regiment can find life decided to change the title for brought to the attention of the outside of the Army difficult to more clarity. Jiffy Myers has press and social media. adapt to and some may suffer been employed in this role with mental health problems since February 2014. Prior to A Welsh Guards veteran had relating to their service. The this appointment, he served in been injured in Thailand and role of the RVO is to support the Unit Welfare Office for 6 was on life support. His family those individuals. years during the Battalion’s were desperate to get him Operational Deployments to home to Wales for treatment. The RVO can be contacted Iraq, Bosnia, Kosovo and The RVO was contacted and on 07456 985727 or email: Afghanistan. with the support of RHQ, [email protected] 1. The RVO visiting LCpl Geraint At the time of writing, since Serving Soldiers, Veterans of Facebook – Welsh Guards Hillard, a veteran injured in the Regiment, the Welsh Afghanistan. January 2016, the RVO has Regimental Veterans Officer Guards Charity and other 2. The veteran’s family and conducted over 70 individual Doctors saying thank you. home visits to injured soldiers, Service Charities, managed to 3. Welsh Guards veterans being bereaved family members, arrange a medical evacuation supported by Jones Brothers. hospitalised veterans, veterans of the injured veteran

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forests like concrete daleks. A lot of organizing goes into WELSH GUARDS ASSOCATION Our sincere thanks go to the arranging these, but made Brigadier and Mrs Rickett for worthwhile when so many President: Colonel T C C Bonas giving up their time so people turn up Vice Presidents: Brigadier J F C Rickett CBE Treasurer: RQMS S Boika selflessly and making the tour Last but not least, again a Secretary General: B Keane Esq. one to remember. tremendous thanks to all , Whitchurch Road, The annual “clash of the titans” Branch Secretaries - without Cardiff CF14 3YE at the Darts and Shooting their help the Association Telephone: 029 2072 6196 competition in September was would fold. E-mail: [email protected] really well supported, I wish you and your families a After the nonstop activities of 2015 when the Regiment especially by our younger happy, healthy and contented celebrated its centenary, 2016 followed in like a lamb, members, who brought with 2017 and look forward to them a breath of fresh air. giving us time to regroup and take stock of where we are. seeing you then. I wish to reiterate my thanks to Brian Keane Sadly, the younger generation During July, the Battalion everyone for their continued Secretary General do not appear to enjoy the invited the Association to their support to Association events. Welsh Guards Association camaraderie of actually ‘Families’ Day’ in Pirbright, and meeting fellow Welsh there were sufficient Association members and their Guardsmen face to face, but partners to warrant a coach CARDIFF BRANCH rather communicate via social from Maindy Barracks to (Formed 1919) media. I accept this is a sign of attend. The weather was President: Colonel C J Dawnay the times and we must move extremely kind to us and the Chairman: David W Parry (22831847) on, but so much is being lost welcome from the Battalion Treasurer: Bill Morris (22217619) by not meeting up over a drink was second to none – thanks Secretary: Terry O’Shea (24047142) or two, reminiscing and to everyone involved in making keeping the Association alive. the day such a success. Following on from our centenary year, it is right to mention that it ended with our Christmas lunch. St David’s Day was the first The Battlefield Tour Group visited Hechtel in September, major event involving the We were joined by the Branch quickly as we went from but was tinged with sadness Association and the Battalion President, Colonel Charles meeting to meeting. Members, since our last two surviving kindly invited us to join them at veterans of the battle for Dawnay, and his charming together with our Branch Pirbright. On a cold, damp Hechtel, namely Arthur Bland wife, Mrs Dawnay. This event Standard represented the morning, we were soon and Ray Cumbley, sadly died rounded off a memorable year Branch at funerals, memorial warmed with hot drinks and earlier in the year, although I for all. services and other military Welsh cakes and it was good to events in Cardiff and beyond. am sure we all felt their spirit Our first event in 2016 was St see many members taking with us. R.I.P. David’s Day, celebrated as The Darts and Shooting part in the ‘march past’. The tour continued on to the guests of the Battalion at competition in September at The AGM continues to be held Battle of the Bulge and, under Elizabeth Barracks, Pirbright. Maindy Barracks, was a great at Maindy Barracks, Cardiff the direction of an excellent This venue brought back many success, thanks to the hard guide of that area, Brigadier during the month of May. This memories from our older work of Brian Keane, Sergeant Johnny Rickett, we had an in has proved to be an excellent members who served there in Jury and the Recruiting Team. depth insight into the years gone by. Stories were re- and popular venue since the This year, a team from the strategies and ultimate fall of told and reminisced increasing cost of travel and the German Army. It was also Battalion also joined us at this throughout the day. accommodation in London, fascinating to actually see the ‘fun day’ out and I sincerely has now made it too expensive remains of the Siegfried Line Although this was a much hope this will continue in years for many people. still snaking through the quieter year, time went by to come.

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Sadly, the Cardiff Branch was Falklands Memorial and then unsuccessful in winning any at the National Memorial at the silver this time, but ‘we’ll be Annual Remembrance Service. back’! On behalf of our President, At the time of writing, we find Branch Officers and members ourselves preparing to attend various ceremonies to pay our of the Cardiff Branch, we wish respects to the fallen in all everyone in the Welsh Guards wars and conflicts. At Cathay’s family a Merry Christmas and a Park, we will lay wreaths at the happy, healthy New Year.

EAST GLAMORGAN BRANCH (Formed 1920) President: Lt. Col. T C Macdonald-Milner Chairman: D Gaule (24141887)/T Morgan Treasurer: W John Hooper (24364279) Secretary: Ken Haines (23523287) Trevone, Duffryn Road Rhydfelin Pontypridd CF39 5RU Telephone: 01443 492316

In January, we began the year with a concert at the Club, which included an Irish Band. They went down like a lead , so the least said the better – suffice to say that they will no longer be made welcome in the valleys! Ken Haines buying the first round?

St David’s Day with the Morgan and, to date, they are –out. I am sure we will be able Allan Thomas, Craig Gaule Battalion at Pirbright was well doing an excellent job. A huge to improve on this next year. and John Little. attended, many travelling by thanks go to Howard for all his July saw members attending Next on the agenda is a four coach from Maindy Barracks, hard work over the years, the Families Day at Pirbright day trip in November, to arranged and paid for by the especially from me, since he with free transport arranged include the National Association. After a damp start, was always there when I from Maindy Barracks, Arboretum. This has proved to the weather cleared, allowing needed help and support. courtesy of the Association. be very popular since our many Association members to In May, our President, Colonel The weather was fantastic and coach filled up almost march behind the Battalion, to Macdonald-Milner retired and the day superb, with plenty of immediately. I am sure the music of the Welsh Guards suggested his son take over entertainment, various stalls everyone will have a good Band. the reins from him. I am and a vast choice of food on time, especially having the The Branch held a ‘Formal pleased to report that this was offer. Well done to everyone opportunity to pay their Dinner’ at the Gelliwasted Club accepted by Colonel Bonas and involved. respects at the Arboretum of course, by Captain Tom on Sunday May 1st, which was It just leaves me to say a very big Macdonald-Milner. Our thanks The Darts and Shoot in Maindy well attended and I am thank you to all our members in are extended to Colonel Barracks, Cardiff was again an pleased to report that the the East Glamorgan Branch and Macdonald-Milner for all the outstanding success, thanks to entertainment was good. also to Kevin Jury from the years he supported the Branch. the hard work of Brian Keane. It Our Chairman of over thirty is an enjoyable day for Recruiting Team who has years, Howard Maine, Sadly, due to various reasons everyone, but particularly for provided us with Guardsmen on informed us earlier in the year the Branch did not attend the East Glamorgan Branch this the few occasions when we Imber Court this year, but requested them. he wished to retire, due to ill year since we collected a fair hopefully it will be once again health. We all agreed that he bit of silver. Brian Owen was Again, a big thank you to Brian established in 2017. would be a hard act to follow, top score in the Shooting and Keane for all the unstinting and decided to share A Falklands Parade was held in Allan Thomas, top score in work he does for the responsibilities of the Chair the park in June, but we Darts. The teams consisted of Association and also the help between Dai Gaule and Tony couldn’t muster a very big turn Brian Owen, Tony Morgan, and advice when needed.

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LLANELLI BRANCH LONDON BRANCH (Formed 1974) (Formed 1926) President: Mr John Harding President: Lieutenant Colonel C F B Stephens Chairman: Keith Horrell (24838137) Chairman: A. H. Doughty. BEM (2741552) Treasurer: Vernon Jones (22217890) Treasurer: Douglas Wilcox. (2739697) Secretary: Alan Cunningham (24125105) Secretary: Jeff Heenan. (23523251) 19 Alden Drive, Cockett, Swansea SA2 0FH 27 Mount Gardens, Harrogate Telephone: 01792 554151 HG2 8BS E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01423 879326 E-mail: [email protected] Things have been really busy at the Branch this year. It began with a few members attended the Coed Las Tree Another quiet year for London Branch, we managed to Planting (Wood) with Major Karl Dawson, members of the have our 2015 Christmas Party in December with another Battalion and a few hundred cadets. singalong Abba Group. This year’s 2016 Party will feature an Elvis Presley impersonator. It will be interesting to know Can I appeal to all members what the chosen name of the and supporters of the Branch Unfortunately your secretary, The visit to the Imber Court new wood will be. to think of raising their subs was unable to attend last year’s Memorial did not take place in and donations for the coming party, deciding to have several 2016. However, our Chairman A few members from the year? By doing so will enable visits to local hospitals to enjoy Richard Doughty, along with Branch attended the very the Branch to subsidise the additions to the heart system - our Associate Member Ray moving service at Hay-on Wye important events that come now ticking over quite well! Issacs attended with Ray's in ‘Remembrance to the Fallen about now and again. in the Somme.’ My thanks as Secretary goes to Next came a 5-day Battlefield all those that support the tour by the Branch to Belgium Branch financially, to my fellow (a full report and pictures can Officers and the members for be seen in the magazine). All their continued support. who assisted the Secretary in various ways had a Poppy Just to finish, our Branch will Cross laid at various Memorials be holding their Christmas as a way of thanks. lunch on Sunday 4th December 2016 venue yet to be Then on to the Darts & Shoot. confirmed. All are welcome, The Branch carried away the please e-mail or telephone me trophies for the Gerry if you wish to attend. Greenstock Cup and the Darts Competition. It was nice to see Meeting for the Branch for the Battalion field a team, and I 2017 are as follows: hope this will become a norm. On the second Wednesday This is one way of cementing of the Month Wednesday 8th relations with Battalion and February (AGM) April 12th, Association and will increase June 14th, August 9th, the numbers attending over October 11th, and time. I believe a great day was December 13th. had, with only one grumble I heard - which suggested we go back to original targets and not the ones that were used on this occasion. Thanks to all those who worked hard to put this event on. To all our members who are on the sick list we send you sincere wishes for a speedy The photograph shows the Field Marshal advising Douglas how to recovery. “cut the cake” whilst your Hon. Secretary nervously watches Douglas “brandishing the knife!!

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friends. Ray very kindly looks Our thanks to Brian and Sandra after the Memorial, it is hoped Keane for all their help during that RHQ will arrange an Imber the years, also to RQMS Steve MERTHYR TYDFIL BRANCH Court Memorial Meeting in Boika for his help and (Formed 1953) 2017. We have always had a assistance during his time at President: Captain Harry Legge-Bourke very warm welcome from the RHQ and Maindy. Barracks. Not Chairman: Tom Peters (23523035) Staff at the Metropolitan Police forgetting Yvonne and the staff Treasurer/ Sports Club, where the Secretary: Errold Jones (24581438) at Regimental Headquarters. Memorial is situated. 18 Marshall Crescent Sadly several of our comrades Penydarren Our Chairman continues to run have passed to the parade Merthyr Tydfil CF47 9JA the yearly raffle, which keeps ground in the sky, our Telephone: 07903 417048 us afloat. We request Members E-mail: [email protected] to pay our yearly subs at £5 per thoughts and condolences go to their loved ones. year. You will require Our year really started with our trip to Pirbright for St Membership Cards when Our thanks go to all our David's Day with the Battalion, which was well attend by visiting Wellington Barracks. Honorary Members, who have the Branch and hopefully next year, even more members We continue to encourage supported London Branch over will attend after listening to our tales which have been members to keep in touch, many years. told over and over again! possibly by email, letter or even by phone. Our next meeting is the AGM It was really good to meet up faces which was nice to see. Earlier this year we held a on Thursday 5th January 2017 with serving members from Keep it up and see you next surprise 90th Birthday Party at 5pm. RHQ Conference around Merthyr and some year. for our Treasurer Douglas Room, Ground Floor. stories were exchanged. Some Hay-on Wye commemorating Wilcox. Over 40 plus guests Names to Hon Sec of us could not believe how the Battle of the Somme was attended his party held in the if you are attending please. much things have changed. really the next outing for the Garrison Sgt's Mess by kind Members of the Branch Branch which was a fantastic permission of the Garrison Sgt attended the tree planting event with thousands in Major. Douglas was weekend at Coes Ffos Las. It attendance, a really good and accompanied by his wife Joyce was a wonderful weekend well thought out day. and their family and friends. with the only dampener being Congratulations to all those Doug served for 25 years and the awful weather. involved and a big thank you was in Norway, and goes out to our Standard Aden. Rising to the rank of I went to the reunion for ‘The Bearer Mr Neville Hamer who (Superintendent Clerk) Sir Galahad’ in Swansea again attends these events to Regiment Sergeant Major, at this year, although not as well represent the Branch in all Regimental Headquarters attended as in previous years weathers. Thank you Nev. Welsh Guards Wellington as it coincided with another Barracks London. event, there were some new The Branch was invited once

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MIDLANDS BRANCH (Formed 1953) President: Captain T Macdonald-Milner Chairman: K Bartlett (23523202) Treasurer/ Secretary: Jonathan Bayliss (23523208) 2 Weston Court, Long Compton Shipston on Stour Warwickshire CV36 5JX Tel: 01608 684834 Email: [email protected] The past year has been very quiet for us again. The Annual Lunch was held on St David’ Day at a local carvery pub in Worcester. Sadly our numbers have dwindled to 14, which included five members and their partners, and four guests – one of which was a Grenadier.

As with many other Branches Please feel free to telephone or in the Association, the majority email me at any time. of our members are well over Merthyr Tydfil Branch Secratary Errol Jones, with Graham Hurley and We hope to carry on as a Geoffrey Peter Blaszkin and the Merthyr Branch Standard at Fitzroy 2007. the age of seventy and again, Branch but we are finding it as with other Branches, we are increasingly difficult to say again this year to the Civic on throughout the valley. finding it difficult to recruit new the least. Service for the incoming Mayor Hopefully they will be as well blood. We would be delighted of Merthyr Tydfil. A Parade was attended as they are every to see more Welsh Guardsmen Best wishes and good health followed by a Church Service year. at our functions and hope there are sent to members of the then ‘tea and Welsh Cakes, Back in March the Branch lost a are some out there living in the Midlands Branch, and also to all which went down very well. It Midlands, who would like to Association members for 2017. very good member and a close is nice for the Branch to be get in touch. personal friend of mine Mr included in these events and Bryn Satch. Although not hope it will continue into the officially a Guardsman (Welsh future. Regiment) he took to the MONMOUTHSHIRE BRANCH Well it's that time again - the Association like a second (Formed 1920) Darts and Shoot in Cardiff. family, my thoughts and those President: Captain D M Davies There was a very good turnout of the Branch go out to his Chairman: Mervyn Delve (22831721) including a team from the family. Treasurer/ Battalion, so the atmosphere Our thoughts and condolences Secretary: Steve Liversage BEM (24141822) was electric !! The Branch go out to ALL the families and 7 Shaw Close, Ebbw Vale, NP23 6QQ managed to put together a Telephone: 01495 302567 friends of our sadly missed team this year and thoroughly E mail: [email protected] members. We would also like enjoyed everything about the to wish a speedy recovery to There were many events in 2016 to look back on with day which included a few catch all those members who are not ups, a few introductions and pleasure but there were sad moments too. For fourteen in the best of health. more than a few beers. years the Branch was led by Brigadier Thursby Pelham Although no trophies for the Our meetings take place on the our third President since the Branch was formed in 1920. Branch (again) this year, the 1st Monday of the month at His passing along with Colonel Ray Cumbley (2736858) in his day was enjoyed by one and the ex-Servicemen’s Club, Eric Sturdy, Medical Officer to later years, resident in all. A big well done to Brian Lower High St, Merthyr Tydfil the Battalion in Berlin in the Cornwall, died aged 96 in Keane, we know it’s not easy starting approx 2000hrs. early 50s and John Tunley August. He never failed to mate but you pulled it off Members, old and new, are (2741085) of Ebbw Vale was attend the Annual Dinner and again. always met with a warm deeply felt by us for they had the Association Battlefield We are now thinking and welcome. Why not pop along contributed so much to our Tours, a great character, full of getting ready for the and exchange a few old affairs in many and varied stories of his days in the 2nd Remembrance Parades that go stories. ways. Battalion. He never mentioned

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The Spring Lunches at the Maes Manor Hotel in Blackwood and Christmas Lunches at Ebbw Vale Rugby Club are well attended, two more opportunities to get together, tell tall tales and generally have a good time. Apart from the enjoyment we also fulfil our policy to take the Branch to the members in as many places we can in our very large catchment area. A welcome addition to our programme is an annual visit to Bristol to play skittles and enjoy ourselves with the Grenadiers and Coldstreamers. Their home base is the impressive Port of Bristol Social Club, not far from the Severn Bridge and their hospitality is quite excellent. We are of Branch Secratary Mervyn Delve, presenting the Monmouth Branch Trophy to the Welsh Guards course neighbours and as a Sportsman of the Year, Lance Corporal Jamie Ryan. result of our new links over the Severn fellow Guardsmen in that he was recommended for atmosphere in the Angel Hotel, The original trophy has been Bristol come to our Annual a decoration by his Squadron Abergavenny which has been showing signs of wear and a Dinner. Commander, Captain Peter named AA Hotel of the Year, new one was displayed at the To everyone active in the Cazelet and the Commanding Wales 2016/17. Annual Dinner when Lance Branch, our exiles, those Officer Lieutenant Colonel Corporal Jamie Ryan, 1st It was our 37th successive unable to attend our functions Windsor Lewis for his part in an Battalion was announced annual dinner at The Angel and and to the serving Guardsmen action at Visselhovede, Welsh Guards Sportsman of there were some present who of all ranks linked with the Germany in April 1945. had attended every one. Major the year 2016 for his Branch we send our best On a happier note Gilbert T C Spencer Smith, on his home achievements in boxing. He wishes for a happy and healthy Priddy (2736881) our loyal ground, responded to the toast was the first coach to receive year to come. member who lives in Bristol to the Regiment and who the award and thoroughly celebrated his 100th birthday better to do so than the deserved it. Jamie and his wife in June was pleasantly Company Commander of from Llanelli enjoyed their surprised when four serving Prince of Wales’s Company? weekend in Abergavenny and Guardsmen, Branch members added considerably to the In 1967 the Branch President, and the Association Secretary occasion. Captain Spencer Herapath General Brian Keane turned up presented the Monmouthshire Our monthly meetings are held for his party, among them a Branch Trophy for Welsh every second Thursday at The fellow 3rd Battalion friend Bill Guards Sportsman of the Year Angel Hotel, Abergavenny in Powell (2739251) who served to the Regimental Lieutenant January, April, May, July, August, in Italy with Gilbert. It was a Colonel, Brigadier Thursby October, November and wonderful occasion which was Pelham. The first winner was December and at the shown on BBC West news and Lance Sergeant David Bowen Constitutional Club, Bargoed in covered by Radio Bristol. one of the finest rugby players March, June and September. The The October 2016 Annual the Regiment has had. The Annual General Meeting is held Dinner fulfilled its purpose, a award was made on Saint in February at Abergavenny reunion not only of Welsh David’s Day 1968 and every Town Hall followed by a Guardsmen but their ladies year since then a Sportsman of Mayor’s reception which is and families too in splendid the Year has been nominated always enjoyed by members surroundings and a happy by the Regiment. and their ladies.

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MONTGOMERY/SHROPSHIRE BRANCH serving as the RSM at the Royal Ben always said that he would Military School of Music at carry out the duties of Secretary until his retirement (Formed 1950) Kneller Hall before being and, true to his word, after 20 President: Mr R G P Plowden commissioned in 1985 and years in the post Ben officially Chairman: Mr B John (23523171) served in a number of posts, handed over his duties as Treasurer/ Families Officer, Gunnery Branch Secretary to me at our Secretary: Mr J O Williams (23860183) Officer with the 1st Bn Annual Luncheon at the 83 Balmoral Crescent Grenadier Guards and finally as Wroxeter Hotel Atcham on the the OIC the Gunnery Wing at 5th July 2013. Shropshire SY11 2XH the All Arms Training Centre in Telephone: 01691 653244 BAOR. Ben and Di enjoyed travelling E mail: [email protected] around Europe in their caravan In 1966 while on leave after and were looking forward to returning from Aden, Ben met being able to visit vineyards Di at the Music Hall in looking for the best claret wine Shrewsbury, Ben told her that of the region and enjoy the it was his 21st birthday. Ben beautiful countryside as they courted Di for a year before travelled. popping the question but waited a further year before Sadly in January 2013 Ben’s they were married on the 7th health had started to September 1968. deteriorate but he was still determined to go on a trip to On leaving the Army in 1992 France with a challenge he had Ben joined the staff of HQ 143 set himself, to cycle up the Brigade Midland District at hardest part of the Tour de Copthorne Barracks France and to cycle up Mount Shrewsbury, as a Retired Ventoux. This was no mean Officer, responsible for task with failing health starting Centralized Training and at HQ to get the better of him but Ben Midland District all training was determined to succeed areas came under his and managed the gruelling command and to his surprise climb and bought the t-shirt to he discovered that the nearby celebrate his success and Camp had a achievement. flourishing military shoot. He On his return home Ben’s 1 soon became involved and was health had further in his element, it wasn’t long deteriorated and he was In Remembrance At the age of 15 Ben left school before he ended up running it. admitted to hospital for tests. and started work at Caws Captain R J D (Ben) Parry At the same time Ben teamed He was advised that he had a Castle Farm and apart from tumour in his left lung and 1945 - 2015 up with Lt Col Brian Morgan learning to drive a tractor he after a few more visits to M.B.E and both became active In December 2015 I sadly had also learnt to appreciate the specialists it was decided the members of the Association to inform members that country and it is here that his best option was to remove his taking over the duties as Captain RJD (Ben) Parry had love of shooting and fishing left lung. Ben had further tests passed away on Friday 4th Branch Secretary along with really started. In April 1963 at and chemo and radio therapy December at the Royal the age of 17½ Ben joined the Brian who became the Branch treatment and another Shrewsbury Hospital. Welsh Guards and after his Treasurer. They became very operation on his vocal chords. Ben was brought up in Asterly basic training at the Guards active in the Branch and soon As usual he showed the Shropshire and went to the Depot in Pirbright he joined the got down to organising trips to greatest courage and Mary Webb School at Battalion serving in Aden – the Major General’s Rehearsals remained positive. Regrettably Pontesbury. He was known to - Germany – – Windsor Castle and of course Ben was later informed that hide in the hedge on his way to Kenya and the Falkland Islands. Branch luncheons. Ben’s time the cancer had returned and school whenever he saw a Fox During his time he was also at Kneller Hall was soon put to infected his right lung. He was Hunt meeting and would posted to the Guards Depot, good use as he arranged carol admitted to the Royal follow the hunt for as long as Pirbright and Sandhurst as a singing at the Christmas Shrewsbury Hospital and he could for the rest of the day. Drill Instructor. Ben was luncheons. passed away peacefully on the

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4th December with his family St David’s Day Luncheon. at his bedside. The branch held its St David’s Ben’s private funeral service Day Luncheon at our usual took place on Friday 18th venue The Henllan Nr December with family and Welshpool, on Sunday 29th close friends at the Shrewsbury February. As always it was well Crematorium followed by a attended by Members and Service of Thanksgiving for the Associate Members and Life of Ben at the Shrewsbury friends. Town Football Stadium Excellent food, good company, Function Room. Approximately what more can you ask for 400 attended to show their respects to Ben including Queen’s Birthday Parade 2 people he had met and made Members of the branch lasting friendships with enjoyed a visit to London to throughout his Army service watch the ceremony of with the Welsh Guards, his and the time at Sandhurst, Kneller Hall, Colonel’s Review. No 7 the Grenadiers, the Association Company and all the friends he had trooped their Colour under the made during life. watchful eye of Garrison The service was taken by Rev Sergeant Major Andrew Stokes Murry Mc Bride who had met who took over from GSM B Ben during his service as the Mott after last year’s Trooping Chaplin for the KSLI at the Colour. GSM A J Stokes is Copthorne Bks Shrewsbury. originally from Shropshire. 3 The eulogy was read by The Welsh Guards were Brigadier J Rickett who had represented by the Regimental become a close friend of the Massed Band. Also taking part family and they enjoyed many were 43 men lining the route shoots with him near with the Irish Guards on The Cheltenham. Mall. Major C J Sergeant who is currently serving as the Second Ben was once referred to as in Command of the 1st Bn the quiet one, which is a nice Coldstream Guards was the way to describe Ben, a man Major of the Parade. who also led by example which had been his forte Branch Members who throughout his successful attended the Colonels Review army career, he also made and the Queens Birthday lasting friendships with the Parade enjoyed the parades people he met and worked and the weekend. with and who was respected On the Monday morning a visit by everyone he came in to RHQ at Wellington Barracks contact with. proved to be a lovely surprise Ben was a loving husband, when the 1st Bn Royal Welsh father and grandfather, who Regiment were turned out in looked at him not only as a all their glory with Goat and 4 kind grandfather but also a the Pioneers for their good mate! Regiment’s Guard Mount.

Ben will be sadly missed but Branch Meetings 1. Captain R J D (Ben) Parry. not forgotten! The Branch continues to hold 2. John Davies with his wife Denise, enjoying the company of Our sincere condolences go its meetings at the Shrewsbury Mike Astley and wife Linda. out to his wife Di and his son Beaconsfield Club in 3. Dan Powell (right), with his wife Sheila (second left) and their friends, enjoying the day. Daryl and family. Shrewsbury. Meetings are 4. WO1 A J Stokes.

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1 normally held every three opportunity on behalf of NORTH OF ENGLAND BRANCH months. The Club location myself and the members of the makes it a good venue with a committee to say a big thank (Formed 1946) free car park and is just a short you to Branch members, President: walking distance from the Bus Associate Members and Chairman: John Harding (23879339131) and Railway Station. The Club friends for their support Treasurer: Arnold Brassey (24125038) also has a good selection of throughout the year and wish Secretary: Keith Bonehill (22831043) ale. Please contact the Branch you all a Merry Christmas and 5 Halls Place, Secretary for dates, all a very Happy New Year. London Rd, welcomed. Northwich, Cheshire, I would like to take this CW9 8BA Telephone: 01606 41317 E-mail: [email protected] 1. Major C J Sergeant leading the march pass of the Parade for the The Branch AGM. At the end of November, the committee Colonel’s Review of Trooping of the Colour 2016 members were elected to serve a further year. We are sorry to 2. Colours of the with escort marching on lose Keith Oultram as our President, who stepped down at the parade to join the New Guard for Buckingham Palace and St James’s Palace Guard on Monday 6th June 2016. AGM. The Branch thanked him for his service during his term. December, we had our number in front of him, Centenary Lunch at The Mecure indicating that he is number Hotel, Chester. Guests invited, one! He is a Chairman par were Lord Lieutenant of excellence, keeps order and Cheshire, T.D.Briggs MBE, KSTJ follows up the meetings, a and the Lord Mayor & better Chairman you could not Mayoress, Councillor Hugo wish for. Other members of the Deynem and Mrs D Deynem, Committee, I bring your notice who enjoyed the lunch. to – Mrs Patricia Harding & Mrs The photographs are of the Jean Monteith, both ladies have Committee Members, you will looked after us for a number of note that John, giving his years, provided refreshments welcoming speech, has at meetings, year on year, managed to get the table bearing in mind John & Patricia 2

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3 travel from Rochdale every Sunday in the month at the month to attend the meetings. Cheshire Regiments Association Mess at the Castle, Barry Monteith, Social Secretary, who works at Chester. We are indebted to the organising our Hot Pots & CRA for the privilege of meeting Lunches, getting the prizes, there, and I suspect that all the telephoning to round up Branch Secretaries would give everyone for the occasions, anything to have such premises without his efforts it wouldn’t for their meetings, the Rooms work. Arnold Brassey, our consist of Mess, bar & steward Treasurer, keeps an eye on the Michael Smith, who looks after finances and our Standard our needs. Two spacious Bearer, Les Thompson meeting rooms with various (22831397) holds the Standard tables and a kitchen. However when required and indeed is a dark cloud has appeared on 4 5 also our photographer, hence the horizon, CRA are finding the he didn’t manage to get himself cost of running the building, in the pictures, again thanked heating & lighting etc. are for his efforts, as he travels beginning to tell on the from the other side of Liverpool, finances. We are really the only Formby to attend. Without association that uses the these members giving their premises regularly. So we will 3. Left to right: Barry Montieth - time, it would be a No Show have to see what will happen Social Secretary, Keith Bonehill indeed. - Secretary, Lord Lt. T. David shortly. Briggs, Lord Mayor Hugo In June, we had our mid-year Dennem, John Harding - Chair, We wish every Association and Les Thompson - Std Bearer. Lunch at the Mecure Hotel, Regimental Member a splendid which went very well, as 4. Left, Mrs Patricia Harding, coming year. Thanks to Staff at Right, Mrs Jean Montieth. always thanks to Barry. RHQ for their assistance when 5. John Harding, Chairman. Members meet on the last requested, keep well everyone. 6. Arnold Brassey. 6

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NORTH WALES BRANCH The Falklands has become an non ‘North Walians’, I do not important event in the want it to become another (Formed 1936) Regiment’s calendar, 2017 Welsh Guards group on President: Captain A.C. Hopkins being the 35th anniversary of Facebook, it is there purely to Chairman: Graham Binnie (2406077) the conflict and it will attract support the Branch. If Treasurer: Allan Loose (24141839) great numbers. The memorial members wish to invite you to Secretary: Maldwyn Jones (24263892) service now encompasses all any of our regular shindigs, Bulkeley Arms theatres of conflict and our that is not a problem, the more Uxbridge Square thoughts on that day are about the merrier. Menai Bridge those who never returned, North Wales LL59 5DF again all are welcome. Please Sadly not many members Telephone: 01248 712715 be mindful that hotel spaces in attended the St David’s Day E-mail: [email protected] Wrexham are quickly filling up. celebrations in Pirbright. Although many of the older It has been a quiet 12 months in North Wales, following We look forward to seeing you all there. members wanted to attend, it such a busy schedule during the centenary year. has become cost prohibitive. Regular social gathering are None of us are getting any Both Bangor & Wrexham (and having a bar is obviously a held in various locations along younger and would find it sections finished off the top priority !), a notification the North Wales coast and difficult to journey there and Centenary Year with well will be published in the these in the main are back in a day. These events for attended Christmas lunches Reunions section of the Daily advertised via our Branch us these days involves a two and they still continue to meet Post. Facebook page. If you are not a night stay. I have obtained on the third Monday and first The Wrexham Falkland member look us up and costings for 2017 and am Thursday of the month. Memorial weekend as always, request to join. hoping to lay on a coach. Wrexham continue to meet at remains well attended and it is www.facebook.com/groups/ the War Memorial Club at Likewise with the Darts and pleasing to see new faces, that northwalesbranch/. Since its 19:00hrs, all from North East Shoots, hopefully we can get a have never attended in the creation, the page has helped Wales are welcome to join us to decent team together for the past, thoroughly enjoy to attract new members to be pull up a sandbag for a couple next meet. themselves. It should be noted more actively involved with the of hours and catch up with old though this is a ‘Memorial Branch; it is great to have Bill It was pleasing to have the friends. weekend’. I hear from many Guest-Rowlands of Bala back in Welsh Guards Golf Society, hold Bangor section have been that they feel they ‘can’t go’ as the fold, Croeso Bill. Also the a meet in North Wales - the meeting at the Waverly Hotel, they were not part of the page is open to serving first in a very long time, if not members of the Regiment. It is Station Road. However, due to Falkland campaign. The the first time, where they an excellent point of contact a change of management and weekend is NOT about those competed for the Eifion Jones especially if you are re-entering the way the venue is presently who went to the Falklands, it is 98 Cup. My initial thought civilian life, plenty on board to run, which are attracting a about those who never when they booked to play the give tips and advice on how to younger element, it is felt that returned. It is an excellent links in Bangor was … oh dear survive and also assist with the venue is no longer suitable, family weekend and we !!! I had thought of blowing the employment opportunities. and are presently seeking a remember only in a way Welsh dust off my clubs and playing, new location. Once we have Guardsmen can. Everyone is I make no apologies for but decided against it as I settled on a suitable venue welcome. refusing joining requests from would not have been able to

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OGMORE BRANCH (Formed 1982) President: Major A. Denman Chairman: Mr Paul Mockett MBE (22217125) Treasurer/ Secretary Mr Mike Jones (23523201) 40 Garfield Avenue Litchard Bridgend CF31 1QA Telephone: 01656 – 650367 E-mail: [email protected] This year has been like “after the Lord Mayor’s Show” taking into consideration that last year, being our 3 Centenary Year, something was taking place literally carry enough golf balls to get memorable shots of what every month. This year has been very low key with the me around the course!! I look turned out to be a fantastic forward to reading Martyn day, thanks to all who exception of the volunteers who worked on the Griffiths 52’s report of the day. attended, from all over North landscaping at Ffos Las. Hopefully 2017 they will return Wales and Shropshire Borders. north again to compete, where The Secretary attended the were set by Mr Roy Poland I would like to pass on the North Wales Secretary will Branch Secretaries’ Meeting in (22831222) and followed by a gratitude and thanks of the sponsor the Eifion Jones 98 Maindy Barracks on 16th hearty helping of Fish & Chips Branch to Sgt Peter Duffy and Cup. February. As ever it was an from the ‘Chippie’ next door. his Recruiting Team here in informative meeting with The proceeds were donated to In October the Branch made North Wales. The team much discussion between the the Mayor’s Charity. We find arrangements to visit the regularly attend our meetings Branch representatives and this a good way to keep in ‘Weeping window’ Poppy and keep us appraised of what also members of the Battalion. contact with both Councils display that first made its the Regiment is up to. They Our thanks go to Secretary alike, especially as we have the appearance at the Tower of also support funerals, which General Brian Keane for the Freedom of the Borough. London for WW1 families of the bereaved have buffet afterwards. commemorations. The main been extremely grateful. Pete We held our Annual Dinner bulk of the poppies were sold and one of his men attended at On St. David’s Day, a party of us Dance on Saturday 9th April, in off and various military Castle for the took to the road to visit the the Masonic Hall in Bridgend charities benefitted from their Weeping Window visit. The Battalion in Pirbright. It was an and once again there was a sale. The display is presently on Guardsman in full HSC was enjoyable day out over the healthy attendance sitting an UK tour calling at varying hidden out of public view until border, renewing old down to dinner. The Guests of locations. The display will open the very last minute of the acquaintances and Honour were the Mayor and at the National Assembly in photo shoot to prevent him remembering the old days. Mayoress of Bridgend County Cardiff from 5th August to 25th being mobbed. Diolch yn fawr Borough, Lieutenant P. Razzall Our AGM took place on March September 2017, and may I Pete. from the Regiment and the 14th 2016 and Mr Richard suggest to Branch Secretaries Association Secretary General Finally, we wish everyone a Morgan (23877388) due to ill that it is well worth a visit. Brian Keane and his wife Merry Christmas and a Happy health stood down as Tickets are free and available Sandra. We also had the New Year and send our thanks Chairman and was replaced by online on the following web pleasure of having two and Best Wishes to all Mr Paul Mockett. MBE site: www.1418now.org.uk/ Guardsmen from the members of the Regiment, (22217125). Once again for the commissions/poppies/2017 Recruiting & Liaison Team in wherever you serve, also to all umpteenth year the remaining locations/ For those not in the Cardiff in HSC. We must thank the staff at RHQ and at Maindy Branch Officials and South Wales area, the display is our Ladies Section for their help Barracks. Committee Members were re- visiting various locations all in setting up the Hall prior to elected unopposed. over the UK, probably at a the event and also the location which is commutable. On 18th March 2016 we held Manager and Chef for doing us Locations and full details are one of our Quiz / Fish & Chip proud in the catering available on the web site 1. Branch Secretary laying nights at the Wildmill department. We then enjoyed a cross. above. Thanks goes to Phil Community Centre, where an the rest of the evening dancing 2. Branch members at the entertaining evening was had to the music of our musician ‘Hen’ Williams 41 for being our castle entrance. official photographer for the by both local Councillors and Dave Escott. He has attended 3. ’Jam Boys’ R.V. at day and supplying us all with Castle Square. veterans alike. The questions our Dinners for over a decade

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will again be on parade and Poppy Wreaths from the Regiment and the Branch will be laid on the War Memorials as usual. We shall end the year with a Social night instead of an official December meeting for what promises to be a good night. Food as ordered by members will be served and followed by an entertainer for the rest of the evening. Sadly we have lost the following members this last year: 2741097 Albert Burd. 23523478 Mike Skinner. BEM. And one of our staunchest Associate members Mr Barrie 1 Chambers, father of 24645750 and has never let us down, in Town and County Borough. Hechtel Council some three or Rob Chambers, who has been brilliant! four years ago they have with the Branch almost since A coach load of us made our continued to communicate conception. Once again this year the merry way back to Pirbright on and hopefully another Association AGM was held in 23rd July 2016 for the Battalion Branch Meetings are still held delegation from Belgium will Cardiff on 24th May 2016 and ‘Open Day’. It proved very in the Caefatri Public House, be visiting us again shortly. once again it was good to meet interesting with the vast array Bridgend on the second up on home soil. On purely of vehicles they will use in their We turned up this year for the Monday of the month and if selfish grounds it means a lot new role in the Army Order of Darts and Shooting you are in the area please do less travelling. Despite this and Battle. Suffice to say we were Competitions on 24th call in. all the IT gadgets available I still spoiled by the amount and September 2016 in Maindy Our AGM will be on Monday think meeting up face to face is choice of food on display, so a Barracks. Two members short 13th March 2017. If you are the only really good way to big thank you to the Battalion. but still full of optimism able to attend please do come have a conversation. On 23rd September we held despite the physical condition along. The Branch attended the “Flag our second Quiz Night/Fish & of some of our aged players, which was soon to be dashed The Chairman, Secretary and Raising” Ceremonies in June in Chip evening where, once Committee would like to thank conjunction with the Town again we had a good evening when we started the competition. Needless to say all the members for their Council as has become courtesy of the Bridgend support throughout the year customary. We strive to attend “Town Twinning Committee”. we didn't reach a final or come near the prizes and trophies. and especially the Ladies and support the local Council I am pleased to say that since Section at all our meeting and at all events taking place both we introduced them to the Our Branch Annual functions. Remembrance Service was again held in Nolton Church, We wish everyone a Merry Bridgend on Sunday 16th Christmas and a Happy New October 2016 when we paid Year and send our thanks and homage to the fallen Welsh Best Wishes to all at RHQ and Guardsmen from the Borough. the Cardiff HQ. There was a good turnout, supported by the Borough 1. Ogmore Branch Dinner Dance Mayor and Mayoress, local 2016, Guests, Mayor and Councillors and veterans alike. Mayoress Bridgend Borough Council, President, Major A. On Remembrance Sunday, the Denman, MCO. MBE, Branch will again be accompanied by Mrs Denman. represented on the Parades in 2. Ogmore Branch Dinner Dance, Saturday 9th April 2016, Bridgend and Maesteg, Guests, Mayor and Mayoress Bridgend. Our Branch Standard Bridgend Borough Council. 2

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SWANSEA & WEST GLAMORGAN BRANCH (Formed 1927) President: Major Charles Carty MBE TD Chairman: Bryn Pennock (23877288) Treasurer/ Secretary: Peter Williams (23877300) 12 St Peters Avenue Cockett Swansea SA5 5BX Telephone: 01792 416010 E-mail: [email protected] Well Gentlemen, another year has passed and a sad year 1 for Swansea Branch who have lost a few stalwarts of the Branch: men with wisdom and honour who gave everything that a Guardsman and Branch Member could.

Mr Bill Cleary, who was 91 This year is the 100th years old and served with the anniversary of the Battle of the 3rd Battalion in North Africa Somme where many Welsh and Italy, was wounded and Guardsmen lost their lives and ended his service in Naples. By Battle Honours which we bear the time Bill came home the with great pride on our 3rd Battalion had been Colours. It was a pleasure and disbanded. an honour to be able this year to visit a number of 1st World Hubert Butt who was 90 years War battle fields and pay old, served with the 2nd homage to our fallen Battalion with distinction as a comrades also to take part tank driver. He was a again in the Last Post wonderful gentleman and a ceremony at the Menin Gate in staunch Branch Member. Ypres where there are listed Mr Roy Bennett, 84 years old, many names of Welsh served with the 1st Battalion in Guardsman. God Bless them - Berlin and London. In Berlin he R.I.P. was Bren Gun carrier driver. The Branch this year has once Roy also served the Branch for again been successful in more than 50 years, holding holding their meetings at St every office in the Branch and James Club, St James Gardens, later became a life Vice Uplands, Swansea, where Kate President. His knowledge of and Gill give us a very warm 2 the Association was welcome and really look after unsurpassed and a great help us. We would like old and new to me in the seven years I have member to join us at the every been Secretary. 3rd Monday of the month from Also very sadly on 17th 7pm, and look forward to September 2016 Ex-Sergeant seeing you there. Mike Skinner passed away, a Welsh Guardsman through and through. He served with the Battalion for many years, 1. Bill Cleary and Colin Jones was a great rugby player and a at Branch Social. gentleman who will be sadly 2. Roy Bennett in Berlin. missed by his family and 3. Roy Bennett at the comrades Menin Gate in Ypres. 3

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Our Sunday lunches again this We only have one member of year have been well attended the Branch left who served and have become a great with the 1st Battalion in the social event every couple of 2nd World War. Mr Bill Dyer is month, but not to dwell on our 94 years of age and is now in a laurels we are still looking to nursing home. We all wish Bill increase the membership of our very best. the Branch and by further articles in our local paper and In October this year the word of mouth. Swansea Branch is going to the Royal National Arboretum and I would also to like to thank our then on to where we will Ladies who attend the Branch visit the Royal Armoury in as Associate members. They Leeds, Eden Hall Camp 1 are a great help and make our museum and then free time in meetings into a social event after Branch Business has been York. concluded. Last but not least I would like to Also congratulations to our thank all the Members and Standard Bearer Amy John Officers for their help and who has just become a Proud support given to me, to my mother to a daughter Megan wonderful wife Pauline and my Grace, Amy’s Brother is also a daughter Nicky for all their serving member of the continued help and effort they Battalion. give to me and the Branch.

1. Hubert Butt, centre on his 90th 2 birthday with Derrick Williams. 2. Ex Sergeant John Williams 300 4. My wife and I at the Branch and Yepman of the guard, Sunday Lunch, Norton House, Major C Carty Rtd MBE TD, Swansea. Ex CSM Bryn Pennock, 5. Myself, wife, son, daughter Major G White Rtd MBE. and grandson at the 3. Falklands Service, Remembrance Parade, Swansea 2013. Swansea.

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WELSH GUARDS REUNITED (Formed 2006) President: Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) Tony Davies OBE Chairman: Major (Retd) Martin Browne BEM Secretary: Dennis (Knocker) Knowles (24122474) 197 Bryntirion Matthewstown Mountain Ash Rhondda Cynon Taff CF45 4EX Treasurer & Tech. Support: Mike Cummins (24472964) Webmaster: Allan Rogers (24220048) Vice Presidents: Alan Parry-Booth (22326094) served in 1WG 1950 - 1952 Ray Skinner (22329571) served in 1WG 1950 - 1952 Mike Wakely (24076183) served in 1WG 1968 - 1977 Larry John (24141857) served in 1WG 1969 - 1982 David Woods (23879346) – served in 1WG 1962 – 1977, served AAC 1977 - 2003 Gwynfor Pritchard (22831515) Served in 1WG 1956 - 1973 It seems like only yesterday that last year’s magazine notes were being produced and we were reporting on the continuing growth of the Welsh Guards Reunited

(WGR) Branch, this year is pretty much the same with WGR Memoirs Of A Country Man by Albert Richard Lewis. membership of both the website and Facebook (page and group) continuing its upward trend. Facebook presence is and although not all branches monitored closely and currently use their area there is As of 1 September 2016 we always had an encouraging anything considered offensive, the scope for them to do so in have the following members: word on any subject. A misleading or false is the future should they wish. WGR Site Members – 3,596 of wonderfully wise man and a moderated. But WGR cannot These areas are secure in so which 2,306 are WGR Branch great poet, his website be held responsible for the much that they can only be members “ProPose” is being maintained views and opinions expressed visited by WGR members who by his friends in his honour – on the many other WG groups have served (and Associate WGR Facebook Page Likes – http://www.proprose.co.uk. set up by individuals and members) and not guests or 1,173 and along with his book which are beyond our control. visitors and so we are very WGR Facebook Group “Memoirs of a Country Man”, fortunate to be able to place in Fast, efficient and fluid Members – 1,195 will ensure that his memory here the regular WG updates communication with our lives on. provided by the Regimental A significant event from last members is a key component Adjutant (we are indebted to year and one which it is only The WGR representation at the and benefit of belonging to an Colonel Bonas for permitting right should head our notes Welsh Guards Association on-line Branch such as WGR us to do this). this year is the loss on 17 March Annual General Meeting (WGA and as our popularity grows 2016 of one of our Branch Vice AGM) appreciated the then so to does the A prime example of just how Presidents and friends; Albert opportunity to talk about WGR dissemination of information. useful WGR can be for rapid Richard Lewis (2734395) aka and the increasing use of social We now have many members communication is highlighted Davidl, who served in 1WG media. We recognize that as that belong to their own local in the tragic case of Adam from 1938 until 1946. A war positive an impact social media geographical branch of the Hobbs, a Welsh Guards veteran time soldier who saw much can have, there can sometimes WGA whilst belonging to WGR involved in a motorbike action. Even at the great age of be a negative side to it also. also. Each WGA Branch has accident in Thailand. The family 94 Albert was a regular WGR strives to ensure that been given their own desperately needed to raise contributor to our topics and both our website and dedicated area on the WGR site funds (£100,000) to bring

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Adam home. One particular Bill Elcock update on his condition and Keith Fizell request for help by the Flicker Morgan 71 Regimental Veterans Officer Griff Griffiths 72 (Jiffy Myers) placed on the WGR Gwynfor Pritchard 15 Facebook page reached 35,000 Roy Hill 75 people in just 48 hours and Stephen Honey was shared 290 times – the Jack Jones 11 power of the internet is there John Reilly for us to all use and benefit Joe Dempsey from. Bryan Jones 52 Keith Smith 90 WGR also, by default, seems to Ken Williams 17 have become the first port of Kev Collett 1 call for anyone “Googling” Larry John Welsh Guards on the internet Mark Edwards 69 whilst looking for WG Mark Lewis 82 information. We receive many David Matthews 64 queries by e-mail (on both the Mike Maloney website and Facebook) from John “Monster” Davies 33 people looking for information Emrys Morgan 82 on records of service, medals Neil Rice or replacements, welfare, Phil Davies 23 media queries, historical facts, David “Spider” Webb etc and we ensure that each Pete Sweeney one is answered as quickly as Ray Smith 79 possible or if we are unable to Chris Williams 30 help then we always sign post Chris Duggan them in the direction of 2 William Scott somebody who can. Dave Jones 76 Just to give you some idea of Alan Simcox the variety of your comrades Wyndham “Skinny” Jenkins that visit WGR on an almost Terry Evans 37 daily basis and with who you Thomas Bevan 55 could communicate with so Robert Belson easily, the following people Martin Browne visited on one day in August: Ray “Yar” Skinner Steven Jennings Lt Col Tony Davies Peter Lewis 18 Andy Brinkworth Tommy MacDonald-Milner Phil Wright Colin Cashman Dennis “Knocker” Knowles Derek Parry 38 Phil Williams 38 John Evans 55 3 Jeff Bishop David Davies 37 Allan Rogers Dave Roberts 69 Bill Franklin David Stacey Alan Parry-Booth Pete Evans 500 Ray Skinner Mike Cummins We are fortunate to have some Peter Lewis 18 wonderful photographs 81 Roberts uploaded to our galleries (now Brian Layton numbering nearly 15,000 Cliff “Harry” Hall images) and a selection of Phil Atwell these are published Dave Fisher throughout our branch report. David Woods In many cases photographs Eric Williams 53 are uploaded with the details Eric Glyn Jephcott of the subjects not known or 4

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recognised, so if anyone can and prosper and of course to recognise anyone in any our branch secretary and photograph who is not named standard bearer Dennis then please let us know so we “Knocker” Knowles (24122474) can update our galleries and who never fails to support all aid people searching in them Welsh Guardsmen and their in the future. families at their time of need. He has paraded the branch We are also most fortunate to standard at a wide variety of have the very talented Neil Rice funerals including Llanelli, (24446066) as a member of Morriston, Bridgend, Cardiff, WGR who helps produce some Pontypridd, Aberdare to name wonderful graphics and but a few and represented the photography work. Aside from Branch at Remembrance taking photographs at events, Parades at Mountain Ash, he has most generously Abercynon and Penrhiwceiber. produced congratulatory cards We are most fortunate to have on behalf of all WGR members such a loyal Welsh Guardsman and posted them to Simon representing us all and we Weston on being awarded the thank him for all that he does CBE and Roy Cumbley, Arthur for the branch and the wider Bland and Alan Appleby on Welsh Guards family, his being been made Chevaliers in unwavering support really is so the National Legion of Honour very much appreciated. 2016. An example of Neil's work is reproduced here. Readers are reminded that, Thank you Neil, your support is thanks to the generosity of our much appreciated. members, WGR holds a complete funeral pack (quality One of our stalwart supporters blue/red/blue coffin drape 5 and WGR Associate member with Regimental Crest, belt, Nick Farr visited Northern forage cap) which is available Ireland on Mon 27 May 16 and for use by anyone having the very kindly laid remembrance sad task of arranging a funeral crosses at in for a Welsh Guardsman. Just City Centre in contact the WGR Branch remembrance of those Welsh Secretary for further details. Guardsmen and a Driver attached to the Battalion who were killed in Northern Ireland during the troubles. They are 23523406 Sergeant Philip Price, 24230319 Driver 1. 1957 – 1958 - Standing; Stephen Cooper RCT, 24315479 DSgt CS Payton, RSM W Phelps, Guardsman David Roberts and DSgt D Roden Seated; Lt Col CA la T Leatham, 24464284 Guardsman Paul Maj W J Burchell. Fryer 2. Some recognisable faces May they all rest in eternal here in Aberdare? peace. Thank you Nick so very 3. ’s CBE card produced by Neil Rice. much for taking the time to do 4. Remembrance crosses, this - appreciated by us all. at the Cenotaph in Belfast. As ever WGR owes a huge debt 5. The indefatigable Dennis of gratitude to our many "Knocker" Knowles, WGR Branch Secretary and members that voluntarily Standard Bearer. donate funds to the site which 6. Lance Sergeant Amerlinck enables the branch to survive with his wife Maria. 6

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in the Quartermaster's office. They were married by the Mayor of the village in the Mairie Town Hall which is just across the road from the farm. 'Marcel cannot speak Polish and his wife speaks no English. But both speak French." LSgt Amerlinck was later tragically killed at Arras on 22 May 1940 and is buried in the Arras Communal Cemetry. His wife, Maria, later settled in Glamorgan were she lived until she sadly passed away in 2003. Another intriguing story which has surfaced due to WGR's involvement in social media concerns a contact message received by WGR from a lady in 1 the USA. A Beatles fanatic, she WGR social media really does the news: Amerlinck is not French. She is was trying to trace the uncover some fascinating WG Polish. She fled from Cracow to whereabouts of John Lennon's "Lance Sergeant Marcel stories which would probably France just before the German bodyguard. She described him, Amerlinck, Welsh Guardsman, otherwise remain untold. One invasion. Like her husband, she from a paragraph in a book, as aged 22, from Cardiff, is on such story concerns LSgt is twenty-two. She is tall, with ‘Leslie Anthony, a 6ft 4ins, honeymoon with his bride in (2734105) Marcel Amerlinck fine features and wavy hair. It 18stone, 33 year old ex Welsh the BJLF front zone, after the was her hair that first attracted who was one fo the first British Guardsman’. first BJLF marriage of the war. Sergeant Amerlinck's attention. soldiers to find a French bride They are in a village not far The first time he crossed the Our forums and Facebook (photograph). behind the line, where they courtyard of his farmhouse group drew a blank; nobody was aware of a Welsh This news travelled far and met when the sergeant was billet he found her helping with Guardsman ever being John wide and on 16 Mar 1940 the billeted there about three the cattle. He saw her every Lennon's bodyguard and all following report appeared in months ago. But Mrs day afterwards, after his work appeared lost until suddenly Leslie Anthony's son contacted us (having seen the topic in the forums). He confirmed that his Father, Leslie William Anthony (22217329), had indeed served in 1WG from 1949 until 1955 and had been John Lennon's bodyguard from 1959 for 7 years. Another piece of fascinating WG history. His Father, now aged 84 is well and lives in . Associate Member and site historian, Nick Farr has continued to provide the Stanley Kiernan award in memory of his great uncle (1038) Cpl Stanley Kiernan WG who was KIA on 1st July 1916 during the raid at Mortaldje. The Branch Committee has 2

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recently reviewed the awarding criteria which has now been widened and it will now be awarded twice a year (instead of quarterly). Nick will now also very generously engrave the winners selected prize with his/her personal details. The following WGR members have been fortunate enough to have had their contribution to WGR recognised by receiving the award since its inception: Mar 13 – Paul Rosser Sep 13 – Roy Hill 75 Dec 13 - Robert Roberts Mar 14 – Albert Davies

Jun 14 - Alan Parry-Boot 3 Sep 14 – Neil Rice wonderful photograph of his Paul Morgan (24578071) aka got first prize for the most Dec 14 – Linda Anne Culpin Father Arthur Thomas Flicker is arranging a WGR handsome Branch there. Well Mar 15 – Maldwyn Jones 92 Dummett (273481) who served reunon over the weekend 28 done members for making the in WG from Jun 39 until Jun 51. Oct in Llandudno and it is very pilgrimage. Jun 15 – Bill Franklin Does anyone recognise the much hoped to include an Once again, we have to thank chap on the right? account of this in next year’s Sep 15 – Graham Larman the people behind the WGR Branch report. Dec 15 – Dennis Knowles WGR is always well website, without which the represented at all WG events As always WGR sent teams to very existence of the Welsh Mar 16 – Andy Brinkworth throughout the year and will the annual WGA Darts and Guards Reunited Branch Sep 16 – Jack Jones 11 continue to support the wider Shoot and although we came (WGRB) would not be possible. Welsh Guards community away without any silverware, The site Management Team are WGR member Roger Dummett whenever and however it can. we most certainly must have purely responsible for the day (24401159) uploaded a

1. Leslie William Anthony (22217329) - Bodyguard to John Lennon. 2. Arthur Thomas (2734815) Dummett (left) 3. Members of the ‘most handsome branch’ at the WGA Darts and Shoot. 4. Back Row: Gdsm Davies, Thissen, Ackermann, Lewis, Keiller Middle row: Gdsm Skinner, Haines, LSgt White, LSgt Powell, Gdsm Evans, LSgt Turner, Gdsm Jones, LSgt Hearne Seated: Gdsm Davies, Pugh, Lt RDM Peel, Lt Col VG Wallace, Lt CRL Guthrie, Capt WS Phelps, CSMI Criddle, Gdsm Bowen, Phillips Front; Gdsm Beynon, Gdsm Griffiths 4

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OUR SITE

Eight years ago I chanced upon A site that’s quite unique Some members look in every day Some use it once a week.

Our ages range from eighteen To a few around a ton The way it’s organised ensures It’s great for everyone.

Designed and built for Veterans And the lads who serve today To aid communication In a very special way.

The news we get is up to date It beats the BBC Mr Alan Parry-Booth, presenting one of his sought after hand - made With every item chosen walking sticks to Neil Rice (24446066) To relate to you and me. to day running of the site, WGR Facebook Group We have the gen from RHQ ensuring adherence to a very www.facebook.com/groups/ And good old Billy Mott simple set of guidelines which welshguardsreunited The way it keeps us in the loop ensure the site is a happy, safe WGR Facebook Page Is always on the spot. and friendly place to visit. In www.facebook.com/pages/w A greetings box for members addition, Allan Rogers, our elshguardsreunited/10901963 To record their special day webmaster, administers the 5828553 Branch online AGM each And R.I.P.’s for comrades WGR Twitter August and really does a Who have sadly passed away. Follow us at: terrific job pulling it all @WelshGuardsWGR For lazy sods and older bods together. Unlike a normal (Include me in the latter) branch AGM at a physical We end our Branch notes, in a A good old fashioned banter box location, the on-line AGM, done manner which has quickly Assists them in their chatter. correctly, takes lot of planning, become customary, with time and patience to get right. another superb poem from Some members live in far flung spots This effort above and beyond our wonderfully talented Vice Like Oz and France and what is expected, really is President, Mr Alan Parry- America and appreciated by us all on WGR, Booth, pictured above Even one in Pontywaun. thank you Allan. The team presenting one of his sought We have a crazy Padre consists of: after hand - made walking Some ex coppers and a nurse sticks (another talent of his) to Webmaster And even one daft bugger Neil Rice (24446066). Allan Rogers (24220048) Who posts his thoughts in verse. Administrator Martin Browne (24433673) Our site administrators Are a really first class band Technical Support That keeps Welsh Guards Reunited Mike Cummins (24472964) As the site Mike Cummins planned. Moderators Dennis (Knocker) Knowles So I’ll propose a vote of thanks (24122474) To members short and tall You make my “Middle Age” complete Neil Rice (24446066) God bless you – One and all. WGR Facebook Jack Jones (24076011) WGR website Alan Parry-Booth www.welshguardsreunited. 21.2.16 co.uk

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DARTS AND SHOOTING COMPETITION

DARTS AND SHOOTING COMPETITION 2016 Brian Keane

he annual Association Darts and Shooting Competition took place once again at the Sergeants’ mess RRW, Maindy Barracks, Cardiff, on Saturday 24th TSeptember. After the disappointing turn-out last year when many members failed to turn up, this year made up for it when we even had a surprise team from the

Battalion. 1

A big ‘thank you’ once again Some may be surprised to see goes to Sergeant Kevin Jury that the Battalion were and his Recruiting Team who ‘runners-up’ in the Shooting controlled the Shooting competition. This is because, competition with their usual according to the rules, serving professionalism and good soldiers can participate but humour and without whose cannot qualify for a trophy. help the day would have floundered. 1. Secretary General with We were honoured to have Mr the trophies. Roy Lewis with us this year to 2. Llanelli Branch, Winners of the present the trophies. Roy has Welsh Guards Association Cup. 2 jut retired as Vice President of 3. Highest Individual Score, the Association and was also Alan Thomas, East Glam. my predecessor at Maindy 4. 1st Bn. Welsh Guards with Barracks. His attendance was ‘extras’. greatly appreciated by Photographs courtesy of Neil Rice everyone present. (www.nhr-photography.com)

RESULTS

DARTS Winners of the Welsh Guards Association Cup: Llanelli Winners of the Abertawe Shield: 1st Bn Welsh Guards 3 Highest Individual Score: Alan Thomas (East Glam)

SHOOTING Winners of the Leatham trophy: East Glam (B) Runners Up: 1st Bn Welsh Guards Winner of the Abertawe Cup (Champion Shot): B. Owen (East Glam B) Winner of the Gerry Greenstock Cup: Andy Harris (Llanelli) William Burman Cup: Not competed for, Swansea Branch not present. 4

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DARTS AND SHOOTING COMPETITION 2016

1 2

3 4

1. Roy Lewis presenting Andy Harris with the Gerry Greenstock Cup. 2. Roy Lewis presenting Brian Owen with the Aberdare Cup. 3. 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, runners up in the shooting. 4. Winners of the Leatham Trophy, East Glam B.

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WELSH GUARDS ASSOCIATION AGM

MINUTES OF THE 86TH ANNUAL alive and also to the Lieutenant Colonel Dai Secretary General for Bevan, and the RSM, GENERAL MEETING OF THE arranging the AGM. He Carl Taylor. WELSH GUARDS ASSOCIATION reported that RQMS Boika is The Welsh Guards now Held at Maindy Barracks Cardiff, at 1100 hrs Tuesday leaving the Regiment at the have 3 serving Major 24th May 2016 end of the year and thanks were also bestowed on him Generals, 1 Full Colonel, 9 President: Colonel T S Bonas for his unstinting work Lieutenant Colonels and Vice President: Brigadier J F Rickett CBE and support to the WGA. 3 RSM’s. Treasurer: Major K Oultram Item 2 – Minutes of Previous Secretary General: B Keane Esq b: The Band of the Welsh Guards has shown interest Meeting in becoming a Branch of Confirmation of the minutes of the Association and the Annual General Meeting Present: There were 6 other Association he was delighted to held 12th May 2015 was members present. support them. J Harding Esq., President proposed by Captain Chris Llanelli Branch: Capt T In Attendance: c: A memorial stone is to be Hopkins, (President North Macdonald-Milner, President Major K Dawson, 1st Btn Welsh unveiled in Llanelli in Wales Branch) and seconded Midlands Branch: Captain H Guards: WO2 M Ridgeway- October, which will include by Mr S Liversage (Secretary Legge-Bourke, President Buckley 1st Btn Welsh Guards: the names of some Monmouthshire Branch) This Merthyr Tydfil Branch: Captain WO2 S Boika, Headquarters Welsh Guardsmen (Branch was carried and the minutes D Davies, President Welsh Guards: Secretaries have already signed. Monmouthshire Branch: received information on Captain A C Hopkins, President Apologies for Absence; this) Item 3 – Finance/Accounts North Wales Branch: Major A Brigadier J F Rickett CBE, Vice d: Battalion was in good order The ARA, Major K Oultram, Denman, President Ogmore President WGA: Colonel C and morale high. They have produced a copy of the Branch: Major C Carty MBE TD, Stephens, President London an extremely busy year, ‘statement of accounts’ for all President Swansea & West Branch: being heavily involved in present and invited any Glamorgan Branch: Lt/Colonel N Owen, Secretary events relating to the comments or queries to be A Davies OBE, President WGR: Cardiganshire Branch: K Queen’s 90th birthday, as discussed with him in his office Mr T O’Shea, Secretary Cardiff Bonehill, Secretary North of well as other commitments. after the meeting. The Branch: Mr K Haines, Secretary England Branch: M Jones, Manning and recruitment accounts show that the East Glamorgan Branch: Mr A Secretary North Wales Branch. was an issue at the moment Association has £19,655.68 for Cunningham, Secretary Llanelli throughout the Army, but the current financial year. Branch: Mr J Heenan, Secretary Item 1 - President’s Address thought this would be a Secretary of Llanelli Branch London Branch: Mr E Jones, a: The President opened the temporary issue, also it was requested names of the Secretary Merthyr Tydfil meeting by welcoming good to hear that Welsh trustees who decide on how Branch: Mr J Bayliss, Secretary everyone, especially Major Guards cadets in Wales Midlands Branch: Mr S Karl Dawson and WO2 were thriving. the money is spent, and was Liversage BEM, Secretary Michael Ridgeway-Buckley informed they consisted of: e: We have, since 2015, been Monmouthshire Branch: Mr J from the Battalion. He was affiliated to the new aircraft President, Colonel Bonas, Vice Williams, Secretary pleased to see eight Branch carrier, HMS Prince of Wales, President, Brigadier Rickett, Montgomery/Shropshire Presidents in attendance as and it is hoped that visits ARA, Major K Oultram and Sec. Branch: Mr M Jones, Secretary well as representation from can be arranged for General B Keane. Ogmore Branch: Mr P Williams, the Association. Thanks Association members in the Secretary Swansea & West were given to Branch All requests for money are future. Glamorgan Branch: Mr D Secretaries for their decided on merit, common Knowles, Secretary Welsh continued hard work in f: The new Commanding sense and for the good of Guards Reunited. keeping the Association Officer of the Battalion is Association members.

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Item 4 – QBP apologised profusely, and took extremely grateful and the bar at Coed Ffos Las. full responsibility, but will carry will remain open until 1700 This takes place on Saturday Major Karl Dawson, Project out a further check of his office. hrs. It is hoped that the turn- June 11th and the Sec Gen was Manager, hopes to get out will be as good as last year. pleased to report that all Item 7 - Association and everyone across Wales involved requests for tickets had been Regimental Battlefield Tours P Williams, Secretary of the and is aiming particularly at satisfied with the cooperation 2016 Swansea Branch requested the the 16 – 21 year olds to assist in of RHQ. attendance of ladies to this digging and planting. Once The Association tour this year event, but was told it was tried completed, it is hoped that it Item 5 – St David’s Day 2017 runs from September 10th – in the past and didn’t work out. will promote the Welsh Guards, 14th, incorporating Hechtel This will be at Pirbright on with walks through the wood and the Battle of the Bulge, Item 10 – Remembrance Wednesday 1st March. The using GPS to pinpoint various where Brigadier Rickett will be Day President has taken on board things of interest. our guide. Due to illness etc, a This year Remembrance Day problems relating to 2016 and few places are now available, Please refer to the full details falls on Sunday 13th promised they would be and if anyone is interested, which have already been November. Wreaths will be rectified. He wished to thank should contact the Sec Gen as circulated to Branch available for collection by the Battalion for all their hard soon as possible for further Secretaries. Branch Secretaries from the work in hosting this. Further details. The total cost is £300 Sec. General’s office after the Item 13 – Junior Guardsmen details will be available closer per person. to the time. meeting. Since there appeared Company Plaque The President also announced to be a problem presenting the A plaque to commemorate all Item 6 – Magazine and that the Regimental Battlefield wreath at the Welsh Guards Household Division Members Branch Reports Tour takes place at the end of Memorial last year, the Sec who served in JGC is to be September to Normandy. General requested that a The ARA stated that the unveiled at the National representative from RHQ be deadline for reports, articles Item 8 – Imber Court Arboretum on Sunday 24th available to assist with this in etc is October 18th. All articles July. Details have been Due to other commitments by the future and was assured by / reports should be sent circulated to all Branch various people involved in the the President that this was in electronically or on disc, since it Secretaries, and the Sec previous planning of the Imber hand. is too time consuming to General agreed to arrange free Court commemorations, it was rewrite these onto computer Since the Battalion is extremely transport if there are sufficient agreed to cancel this year. The for the printers. Hard copies of busy in November, it seems numbers interested. Secretary of the East photographs will be accepted unlikely that there will be a Glamorgan Branch, who has Item 14 – Offas Dyke Walk by post but must be clearly large presence in Wales at this successfully run a coach to labelled, together with a note time, but they will endeavour This is being organized by Jan Imber Court in the past, was of where it should be displayed to provide at least one Koops and, again, details have also finding it extremely within the article. The Sec representative to Branch been circulated. The walk difficult in getting members to General reiterated that Branch towns. commences at Chepstow on attend. reports must be accompanied June 16th and finishes in Item 11 – Christmas Card by a photograph since this is A letter to Imber Court will be Prestatyn on June 17th, the the way to keep readers sent to explain the The ARA reported that there night before the Falklands interested. Newsletters should circumstances and hopefully was a delay with the artist in Memorial Service in Wrexham also be sent in the same way. this event will resume in 2017. completing the Christmas card on 18th June. All welcome, but for 2016, but as soon as it must make their own eating The President wished to Item 9 – Darts & Shooting becomes available, it will be and sleeping arrangements. encourage articles for the Competition uploaded on to the Welsh magazine, whether they are Item 15 - Points Raised at This has been arranged for Guards Association web site. military or just pertaining to Secretaries Meeting Saturday 24th September at local events. Item 12 – WW1 Centenary Maindy Barracks, commencing The main bone of contention Project at Coes Ffos Las A Cunningham was at approximately 1000 hrs for appeared to be that the deaths disappointed that photographs those Branches close to the On 29th June the Welsh Guards of some members were not belonging to John Croft sent venue. The Recruiting Team have agreed to provide included in the ‘In Memoriam’ for 2015 magazine appeared to has kindly agreed to cover the support to the Woodland Trust page of the magazine. The Sec have been lost. *** The ARA DCCT, for which we are all shaping the Centenary Wood General pointed out that he

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can only submit information ‘business list of Welsh received from Branch Guards tradesmen’ on line. Secretaries, which should The question was asked include: Name, Rank, who was going to set Regimental Number, Dates of this up and the response service and Age when died. He from the meeting was it reminded everyone that RHQ should be him! are extremely good in helping His next point was that out with checking their consideration be given to archives, and the President holding a ‘Black Sunday’ for stated that these are presently being updated and saved Welsh Guards since many securely. Association members would like to attend London A few points were raised by for Remembrance Day but attending members: felt committed to 1. Lt Colonel Tony Davies supporting their local towns. (President WGR) wished to 4. A Cunningham (Secretary assure the meeting that the Llanelli) informed the WGR site has now sorted meeting that his Branch out their past problems and were visiting Hechtel 18 all posts are now closely – 22 August and wished to monitored and removed if thank RHQ for supplying a deemed necessary. bugler. Another member of WGR Item 16 - Date of next stated that the site is Annual General Meeting extremely popular and used efficiently to get To be decided. information to their users. The President and Secretary The Sec General pointed out General thanked everyone for that many Association attending and contributing to members are elderly and an excellent constructive are not computer literate, meeting. thus there is also a strong need to communicate in *** Item 6 other ways. Various other The Sec General has further comments were made by investigated the ‘lost WGR members which were photographs’ belonging to taken on board. John Croft and discovered they 2. T O’Shea (Secretary Cardiff were not sent for the Branch) wished to know if magazine, but to the any thought had been Association approximately two given to celebrating 100 - three years ago together with years of the Association in newspaper clippings relating 2019. The President replied to Mr Croft. These items were that it was a little early to later returned to sender by plan anything as yet. registered post by the Sec General, and receipt was 3. Capt. Harry Legge Bourke confirmed by his friend, Mr (President Merthyr Tydfil) Ivor Rowe. wished to know the feasibility of setting up a

128 WELSH GUARDS ASSOCIATION AGM WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE FORECAST OF EVENTS

FORECAST OF EVENTS 2017

JANUARY

FEBRUARY 24 Secretaries’ Meeting - Cardiff

MARCH 1 St David’s Day - Pirbright

APRIL

MAY 16 Association AGM - Cardiff

JUNE 3 Trooping The Colour - Major General’s Review

10 Trooping The Colour - Colonel’s Review

17 THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY PARADE

JULY

SEPTEMBER TBC Darts and Shoot Competition

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER 12 Remembrance Sunday

DECEMBER

FORECAST OF EVENTS 129 In Memoriam - Êr Côf

We regret to announce that notification has been received of the deaths of the following

22831995 LSgt M Worrell 409231 Lord Avebury Died: 12th August 2011, Aged: 70 years Died: 14th February 2016, Aged: 87 years Served: 1958 – 1968 Served:1950-1951

23879382 Gdsm DJD Thomas 22217800 Gdsm D Jones Died: 5th September 2015, Aged: 71 years Died: 24th February 2016, Aged: 87 years Served: 1963 – 1968 Served: 1948 - 1956

2738457 Gdsm B Cleary 2738009 DMaj W Walker Died: 5th September 2015, Aged: 91 years Died: 13th March 2016, Aged: 91 years Served: 1942 – 1946 Served: 1945 - 1974

2739082 Gdsm RE Barnes 2734395 WO2 A R Lewis Died: 30th October 2015, Aged: 90 years Died: 17th March 2016, Aged: 96 years Served: 1942 – 1946 Served: 1938 – 1946

2741804 Gdsm JP Manning 2741814 Sgt J H Griffiths Died: November 2015, Aged: 85 years Died: April 2016, Aged: 89 years Served: 1947 – 1959 Served: 1947 – 1952

24368932 CSgt RN Bevan 2741085 Gdsm J Tunley Died: 11th November 2015, Aged: 60 years Died: April 2016, Aged: 89 years Served: 1975 – 1986 Served: 1945 – 1948

520964 Capt RJD Parry 22217655 Gdsm G Nethecott Died: 4th December 2015, Aged: 70years Died: 2nd April 2016 Aged: 83 years Served: 1963-1992 Served: 1952 – 1974

228335 Capt GR Furze Lt Col DE Sturdy MS FRCS (RAMC) Died: 8th December 2015, Aged: 94 years Died: 3rd April 2016, Aged: 87 years Served: 1942-1946 Served: As RMO 1951-1953

23523412 Gdsm M Saunders 176790 Brigadier M C Thursby – Pelham OBE Died: 2016, Aged: 75 years Died: 24th April 2016, Aged: 95 years Served: 1960 – 1966 Served: 1941 – 1975

22614147 Gdsm R Bennent 22217179 LCpl B Davies Died: 18th January 2016, Aged: 85 years Died: May 2016, Aged: 82 years Served: 1952 – 1955 Served: 1952 – 1956

22831919 LCpl DN Bishop 23523108 Gdsm T Mooney Died:16th January 2016, Aged: 82 years Died: 28th May 2016, Aged: 74 years Served: 1958-1965 Served: 1958 – 1964

2738431 Gdsm R Bevan 23523350 Gdsm M Betts Died: February 2016 Died: 29th May 2016 Served: 1942-1944 Aged: 73 years Served: 1959 – 1964 362192 Sir Timothy Bevan Died: 11th February 2016, Aged: 88 years Served: 1945-1947

130 IN MEMORIAM In Memoriam - Êr Côf

We regret to announce that notification has been received of the deaths of the following

2739147 LSgt H Butt Died: 10th June 2016 Aged: 90 years Served: 1942 - 1946

2657354 Sgt A Bland Died: 21st June 2016, Aged: 95 years Served: 1939 - 1953

25234130 Gdsm T Sloman Died: 2nd July 2016, Aged: 28 years Served: 2007-2016

23523060 Gdsm M T Morris Died: 24th July 2016, Aged: 77 years Served: 1958 – 1961

2736858 Sgt R Cumbley Died: 06th August 2016, Aged: 96 years Served: 1940 – 1947

24626342 LSgt A Legge Died: 16th August 2016, Aged: 51 years Served: 1982-2003

23523478 CSgt M Skinner BEM Died: 17th September 2016, Aged: 76 years Served: 1960-1984

507061 Major P Owen-Edmunds Died: 24th September 2016, Aged: 57 years Served: 1981-1992

2738678 Sgt H Symms Died: October 2016, Aged: 92 years Served: 1942-1948

IN124 MEMORIAM 131 PHOTO GALLERY WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE

ASSOCIATION PHOTO GALLERY

3 1. North Wales Branch Sec. 1 2 Mal Jones. 2. Phil ‘Hen’ Williams 41 with Mal Jones 92. 3. A Tower Poopy, on display at the Branch Sec’s pub. 4. Geraint Owen 64 with wife Debbie. 5. 22831222 Roy Poland, (Ogmore Branch), alongside the grave of LSgt F.Trott. Died 11/11/18. 6. Discovered in Cemetary, Porthcawl, 1245 LSgt F. Trott WG. Died 11/11/18, Armistice Day. 7. 300 Williams, Canada 1964. 8. 89 Tucker, 300 Williams 4 and Kellaway, Gort Barr 1962. 5 6

7 8

132 PHOTO GALLERY

101 years ~ 1915 - 2016 WELSH GUARDS REGIMENTAL MAGAZINE 2 0 1 6