ISSUE 2, 2012

THE jhc - delivering joint success on operations

a p a c h E Missile Success

RAF BENSON DELIVERS British & Afghan Soldiers REAL LIFE SUPPORT Strike at Insurgency in EXERCISE Operation PASHTUN Cobra JAGUAR Hunt

Journal of the joint helicopter command

LZDZ News Contents Message Issue 2 from the 2012 Commander

Editorial Editor: Sqn Ldr Tom Draper E: [email protected] T: 01264 381 122

Sub Editor: Matt Carter E: [email protected] T: 01264 381638

Advertising 16 12 Sales Manager: Sue Ward E: [email protected] T: 01536 512 624

Design Designer: Chris Keller E: [email protected] T: 01536 521 126

Publisher LZDZ is published by Lance Publishing Ltd, 1st Floor, Tailby House, Bath Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8NL T: 01536 512 624 E: [email protected] www.lancepublishing.co.uk 6 Company Registration Number: 3253372 Printer Lance Print Ltd, Unit 3 22 Houghton Hill Industries, Houghton Hill Farm, Houghton, , Cambridgeshire, PE28 2DH message from T: 01480 492 183 E: [email protected] the commander www.lanceprint.co.uk

Further Information Summer is always a hectic time for us, and notably so www.mod.uk/ this year having included support to the Olympic Games defenceinternet/ to our already rich mix of operational and training aboutdefence/whatwedo/ activity for the , Army and . airsafetyandaviation/jhc ur commitment to the Games to Parliament, I will ensure that all the 29 10 makes some disturbance to changes are explained very clearly holiday plans unavoidable, to everyone in the Command. News Exercise & Operations Exercise Pashtun Jaguar...... 18 and at a time when people Meanwhile, I commend the well 3 PARA Prepare for Public Disorder...... 7 British & Afghan Soldiers Strike Oacross the Command are already digging written articles in this edition of LZDZ. Gunners Battle to be the Best ...... 8 at Insurgency in Op ‘Cobra Hunt’...... 14 Honours & Awards deep in many other areas. I am grateful There is good coverage of our most 845 NAS Plays Host to 56 RQS...... 11 Exercise Serpent’s Anvil...... 20 HMS Ocean Wins Trophy...... 15 for your understanding about this and the recent activities, including some very Wattisham Army Wives’ Choir...... 12 Exercise Chiltern Kite...... 21 Heritage Volunteer...... 22 unstinting effort I see in all of our units challenging military exercises, as well Missile Success for Army Helicopters...... 13 Exercise White Knight...... 26 – and particularly so from our families. as some impressive team and personal Airbourne Engineers Get Ready to React...... 14 Sport & Charity We all await with interest the imminent sporting achievements for charity. Junglies in Nordic Search & Rescue...... 17 Features Soldiers Marathon Effort...... 19 announcements on the future Defence Here’s hoping for the odd British gold Phantom Returns to Wattisham...... 23 Exercise Gaulish Eagle...... 6 Soldiers Cycle Round the Clock...... 26 programme, and on the shape and medal to justify the effort in London 2012! Nutritional & Dietry Supplements...... 24 Exercise Eagles Flight...... 10 3 PARA Punch Their Way to Boxing Title...... 28 capability of the Regular and Territorial Not Just Test Tubes & Lab Coats...... 25 CinC Fleet Receives Warm Reception...... 16 Soldiers Fish Their Way to Fitness...... 29 Army we can expect to serve in 2020. Air Vice-Marshal As soon as the Defence Secretary has Carl Dixon CB OBE FRAeS RAF

This publication is copyright Lance Publishing Limited and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in consequence arising from it. Views Expressed in this announced the Government’s plans Commander Joint Helicopter Command part without prior written permission of Lance Publishing Limited. While every care has been taken during the preparation publication are not necessarily those of the Royal Navy, of this magazine, Lance Publishing Limited cannot be held responsible for accuracy of the information herein or for any Army, Royal Air Force or the Ministry of Defence.

4 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 5 News Feature 3 PARA Exercise Prepare Gaulish for Public Eagle Disorder

Paratroopers make Paratroopers prepare for French public disorder connection Paras have been training to deal with hostile crowds that they may face in their role as the ’s rapid reaction force.

British paratroopers have been working alongside French training towns - Beausejour and Jeoffrecourt in urban areas is slightly different to roops from 3rd Bn The back more than 2,000 years. He said: airborne cavalry on a joint exercise to improve their urban - which include different districts imitating ours. Also, as paratroopers, we’re Parachute Regiment have “Many of the drills are no different to what fighting skills and develop co-operation between the two armies. retail, residential and industrial areas. not used to working with tanks.” been bombarded with the Roman Army used to do, with highly Maj Richard Todd, OC A Coy, said: “As the Pte Damien Miles, said: “Communicating petrol bombs and missiles disciplined soldiers advancing forward olchester-based A Coy, 3 PARA Airborne Task Force 3 PARA is on standby with the French troops was a challenge Tduring public order training in a mock under the protection of shields. The key has been working with the tanks to go anywhere in the world to do anything at times, but we’ve got by with a few village at Lydd ranges in Kent. to dealing with large, hostile crowds is of the 1er Régiment de Hussards It was a tough from disaster relief to war fighting. On an words of French and lots of hand The Colchester-based troops started off control and knowing when and how to Parachutistes (1er RHP) at Centre ABTF operation it is likely that we will be signals and sketch maps.” by learning how to work together to both react to what is happening in front of you. Cd’Entrainement aux Actions en Zone Urbaine exercise because working alongside other armies in an urban The training builds on the two defend each other and drive back hostile “This training is about getting (CENZUB) in north east France, the largest it’s been so environment, so this training has been excellent countries’ military co-operation crowds, with training culminating in a large soldiers used to facing a high pressure urban warfare training facility in Europe. preparation for us. This has also served to following the signing of the Defence disturbance with fellow soldiers as rioters. situation, so they don’t over-react Ex Gaulish Eagle which took place different. We’re strengthen the relationship and Security Co-operation Treaty Maj Richard Todd, OC A Coy, if they have to face it for real.” between 4th-16th March 2012, was designed and understanding with our by Prime Minister David Cameron said: “As the Airborne Task Force, we Private Peter Harrington, said: “It is to provide 3 PARA with experience using French French allies. We’ve used and French President Nicolas are on standby to go on operations scary to have petrol bombs thrown at of urban operations and working with weapons and their kit and tactics and Sarkozy in November 2010. anywhere in the world at short notice. you and really gets the adrenaline going. other armies to prepare for its role in working with the tanks was 3 PARA is part of 16 Bde which has been As well as conventional war fighting I’ve had the experience of it now and the Airborne Task Force (ABTF). their approach an enjoyable challenge.” tasked with building a partnership with we could be involved in disaster relief learnt that dealing with public order The first part of the exercise saw Pte Dave Cheshire, the French 11e Brigade or civil disturbances, and that might incidents is all about looking out for paratroopers train with the Giat Famas to fighting in said: “It was a tough Parachutiste (11e BP). require dealing with hostile crowds. each other and keeping a cool head.” assault rifle, the standard weapon of urban areas is exercise because The two brigades are “Learning how to deal with public Private Dan Nicklin, said: “This is a new the French Army, and learn French it’s been so working towards the order situations is a new skill for many of skill for me and the training has been an tactics for working with Leclerc main slightly different different. We’re formation of a joint our soldiers, but they have really enjoyed eye-opener. The best bit is being a rioter battle tanks in built-up areas. using French expeditionary and performed well on a challenging against my colleagues. Facing a hostile The training culminated in a field exercise to ours. weapons and force for and extremely realistic course.” crowd is the best way to learn what to do Pte Cheshire with the two units working together to attack their approach contingency Maj Todd said that the techniques in a real situation and we’ve all given each and defend CENZUB’s two purpose-built to fighting operations. used in public order could be traced other a good aggressive experience!”

6 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 7 News Gunners Battle to be the Best You could be in the Algarve,

Gunners battle each other relaxing in the sun...

Situated on the top floor of a three storey block the apartment has its to own residents’ swimming pool. It has the advantage of being away from the bustle of the town centre but within walking distance (10 minutes to the marina and another 5 to the town centre).

be It has a twin bedroom, open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a 4-ring hob, oven, microwave, toaster and washing machine. There is a family sized bathroom. The lounge has a sofa (which converts into two more single beds) and a table to seat four. A TV, DVD and CD player are also available. Both the lounge and bedroom have patio doors which the open onto the balcony offering views over the swimming pool and across Lagos. There is ample car parking space in front of the building. best www.lagosalgarve.co.uk Airborne gunners have gone into battle against each other as they train for their role in the British Prices: Army’s rapid reaction force. Nov to Mar £190 Apr, May, Oct £255 June & Sep £320 July & Aug £395 olchester-based 7 Para RHA than up to the challenge of anything always a healthy rivalry between the gun held a best gun detachment that is thrown at them. This versatility teams, and the competition has been a competition at Warcop in is a vital attribute for all as we train to great way to test everyone’s skills. As we Cumbria to test the full range meet future operational demands.” train for our rapid response role, we’re Cof their skills, as gunners first really going back to what 7 and infantry soldiers second. Para RHA is all about. It’s back As well as the key artillery to basics gunnery – shooting skills of accurate live firing and moving and living out and safe movement of the of our vehicles – rather than 105mm L118 Light Gun, the There’s always a healthy working from fixed locations competing gun detachments as we have been on recent were tested on their first rivalry between the gun operations in Afghanistan.” aid, vehicle recovery, rifle teams, and the competition The competition marked shooting and fitness. the start of Exercise EAGLES Lt Col Gary Wilkinson has been a great way to RESOLVE 12, which is training OBE, CO of 7 Para RHA, to maintain 7 Para RHA’s said: “This competition has test everyone’s skills. skills as part of the Airborne Sgt Soper enabled the gun crews to Task Force (ABTF). The ABTF demonstrate all the abilities sees 16 Bde maintain a force and attributes expected of ready to deploy anywhere the modern day field gunner, in the world at short notice. showing their robustness, 7 Para RHA provides a technical competence, resilience, Two six-man detachments from each gun battery and Fire Support Teams determination, flexibility and basic of the unit’s three gun batteries took (FSTs), who work with infantry on the soldiering skills. It has been tough, but part in the competition. Detachment ground to co-ordinate artillery, fast has proved that our soldiers are more commander, Sgt Soper said: “There’s air and attack helicopter support. To book accommodation please contact Judith Hall on 01536 711884 Apartments can also be booked very competitively at [email protected]

8 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command Feature News Exercise 845 NAS Eagles Plays Host Flight to 56 RQS

Army’s rapid reaction force The parachute jump on Wednesday was an overhead assault, which sees troops carrying light equipment and weapons jumping from C130s flying at only 600ft. Capt Tom Walker explained: “This is the perfect way to get a company takesto of paratroopers on the ground within pictured: USAF a matter of minutes. If the situation Pavehawk HH-60 and a Sea King at Yeovilton demands it, the speed of the descent and the equipment we are carrying mean that we would be ready 845 NAS Afghanistan where they operate under the theair to start fighting as we ‘Pedro’ callsign, playing a valuable role in Troops from 16 Air Assault the world at short notice to do anything hit the ground.” HOST lifting wounded soldiers of all nationalities Brigade have taken part in an from disaster relief to war fighting. L/Cpl Mark Murphie, to the nearest hospital facilities. aviation skills master class. Some 120 troops from Colchester-based said: “This has been AMERICAN During their visit the chance to have a A Coy, 3 PARA parachuted onto the Everleigh really good training, closer look at each others’ kit and equipment rom parachuting to drop zone, before being picked up by taking us back to basics AIRFORCE and discuss recent deployments was high helicopter assaults and helicopters to assault South Cerney airfield. on parachuting and RESCUE on the agenda. Building on their HMS Rapid Air Landing (RAL), Maj Richard Todd, OC A Coy, said: working with helicopters. Ocean experience, the US aircrews were Exercise EAGLES FLIGHT “This exercise has allowed us to work on a Doing a jump in a tactical style SQN keen to learn more of what the Commando F12 ran from 26th March to 4th April, number of air insertion techniques, learning is what being a paratrooper is Sea King Squadrons do. which saw soldiers working on the skills and drills on the ground and then all about and it’s been a valuable 845 Naval Air Squadron at RNAS “Not only am I in awe of the Salisbury Plain with RAF C130 Hercules rehearsing it in the air. These techniques and enjoyable experience.” Yeovilton hosted helicopters aircraft, I also think their work transport aircraft and helicopters. are applicable to all operations we could be Troops from 5th Battalion The and 30 personnel from the 56th extracting casualties from the The training was about honing key asked to do as the ABTF, from the benign Royal Regiment of Scotland also took Rescue Squadron (RQS) of the Green Zone in Afghanistan skills required for the Airborne Task Force situation of moving into a country to a part in the exercise, which was key United States Air Force, who must be one of the most (ABTF), which sees the brigade maintain hostile environment where we could have training for the unit as it prepares to take brought with them two HH-60 rewarding pilot jobs around.” a force ready to deploy anywhere in to seize an objective by parachute assault. over as lead battlegroup for the ABTF. Pavehawk’s, the Search and Rescue said Sub Lt Fred Durrant, who version of the H-60 Blackhawk. hosted the USAF crews. “We were able to accomplish he Junglies are old friends a great deal of training while at Yeovilton of the Pavehawks and 56 we managed over 80 deck landings on RFA RQS having recently served Argus and this was due in large part to the This is the perfect way to get together during Operation support from 845 Naval Air Squadron TEllamy onboard HMS Ocean off the Libyan and the Commando Helicopter Force”, a company of paratroopers coast, where they conducted personnel said Lt Col Jon Cary 56 RQS Ops Officer. recovery operations in support of the 845 NAS were delighted to have been on the ground within a Coalition forces. The Pavehawk is designed able to assist the USAF with their training matter of minutes. If the to carry out day or night operations into and build on strong ties that exist between hostile environments and recover downed British and US forces. The Squadrons also situation demands it, the aircrew or other isolated personnel back worked together during Ex Joint Warrior. to friendly lines. (Combat speed of the descent and the Search and Rescue, CSAR.) equipment we are carrying Because of its versatility, they can be tasked to also take mean that we would be part in civil search and rescue, …extracting emergency medical evacuation ready to start fighting (MEDEVAC), or disaster relief. casualties from as we hit the ground. The two Pavehawk the Green Zone Capt Walker helicopters operated out of Yeovilton for a week, where in Afghanistan they familiarised themselves with the deck of the Royal must be one of the Fleet Auxiliary ship Argus in the English Channel. 56 most rewarding RQS, who are based out of pilot jobs around. RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk, Sub Lt Durrant as part of the United States Air Force in Europe, are also known to the Commando Helicopter Force crews out in

10 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 11 News News Missile Wattisham Success Army Wives’ for Army Choir Helicopters

for Army helicopters Missilesuccess at sea Army Apache attack crews are comfortable operating in all As well as carrying Apaches, Illustrious helicopters flying from HMS environments and this has once again also had on board Merlin and Sea King Illustrious have fired tank- demonstrated our ability to fire Hellfire Helicopters along with a company of busting Hellfire missiles in from sea having launched from HMS from Arbroath-based 45 the UK for the first time. Illustrious. The Army Air Corps and Commando. Exercise Joint Warrior, which Squadron forged excellent links with HMS took place across Scotland, involved wo Apaches from Wattisham- Ocean last year – and are now forging more than 8,000 troops from half-a- based 4 Regt AAC fired similarly strong links with Illustrious.” dozen nations and 30-plus warships and one Hellfire missile each auxiliaries. at a training target in the The two-week Tsea off Northern Scotland, where long exercise HMS Illustrious was taking part in the started with multinational Exercise Joint Warrior. The Army’s Apache crews troops from Although the Hellfire has been used are comfortable operating Colchester-based in combat in Afghanistan and Libya, 16 Air Assault this is the first time that the Apache has in all environments and Brigade seizing fired live missiles in the UK. As well as the airfield at training the Apache pilots, the firings this has once again West Freugh, also allowed the crew of HMS Illustrious demonstrated our ability south of Stranrear, to practice safely delivering the missiles in parachute, from the ship’s weapon magazines to to fire Hellfire from sea… air assault, the helicopters on the flight deck. Maj Lewis and tactical The training builds on the partnership air landings. It Army wives’ choir Sally said: “I was inspired by the TV show established between the Army’s Apaches culminated with and just wanted to do something to bring and the Royal Navy. Last year Apaches 45 Commando wives at Wattisham together, to both have from 4 Regt AAC’s 656 Squadron flew CO HMS Illustrious, Capt Martin carrying out an amphibious landing brings harmony fun and look after each other while our strike missions over Libya from HMS Ocean Connell, said: “The Hellfire missile firings on the beaches of West Freugh, husbands are away on operations. One or as part of NATO’s Operation UNIFIED conducted from HMS Illustrious once with Apaches flying top cover. to Wattisham two women have a musical background, PROTECTOR. On 22 missions the Apaches again proved, as HMS Ocean did so but most of us started from nothing hit more than 100 targets, firing 99 Hellfire effectively last year off Libya, that the A group of Army wives are starting to hit the high more than singing in the shower!” missiles and 4,800 30mm cannon rounds. potent combination of Apache helicopter notes with support from the Royal British Legion. The choir, which is led by choirmaster Maj Piers Lewis, who commands 656 and Hellfire missile can be successfully Michael Dann, had its first performance Squadron, said: “The Army’s Apache delivered by a UK Warship at sea.” acked by a £1,000 at a function in the officers’ donation from mess earlier this month. the Legion, Sally said: “Everyone was the Wattisham apprehensive and neither the BMilitary Wives Choir has For me, the choir is two choir nor the audience really brought together wives and knew what to expect. But it girlfriends from the base to hours a week to just went very well, which boosted support each other through enjoy myself and forget everyone’s confidence and a shared love of singing. there are some strong voices The choir was inspired by all my worries. Luke beginning to emerge.” the success of the BBC series Clare Ellard, whose husband ‘The Choir: Military Wives’ and thinks it’s brilliant L/Cpl Luke Ellard was deployed was set up at Wattisham Flying and asks every time to Afghanistan, said: “For me, Station by Sally Wilkinson while the choir is two hours a week her husband Capt Phil Wilkinson we speak what the to just enjoy myself and forget was serving in Afghanistan. all my worries. Luke thinks it’s Regularly 35 women turn choir’s been singing. brilliant and asks every time Mrs Ellard up for weekly rehearsals. we speak what the choir’s Colin Hawkins, the been singing. Recordings of Legion’s Suffolk county our rehearsals have been sent chairman, said: “We’re out to Afghanistan. It lets the delighted to support the Wattisham when their husbands deploy and the choir guys know that their wives are looking Military Wives’ Choir. Soldiers’ wives is a great way for them to support each out for each other back home and that suddenly become single parent families other and it sounds fantastic too.” helps them concentrate on their jobs.”

12 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 13 News Airborne Honours Engineers & Awards Get Ready HMS Ocean to React Wins Trophy

Airborne engineers BRITISH&AFGHAN SOLDIERS Bbr Joe Harris, tactical air controller for D Coy,responsible for the co-ordination STRIKE AT of air assets in the area said: “We had get ready tracked this guy for some time before INSURGENCY finally getting into position to strike. It to react IN OP ‘COBRA was a relief to finally get him as he had been firing at our lads on the ground HUNT’ and could have caused casualties.” Maj Matt Baker, OC D Coy said: “We British and Afghan soldiers clearly took them by surprise because after struck a decisive blow against we hit them with the Apache they just insurgents in an operation didn’t want to know anymore, and were in against a Taliban stronghold a state of shock for about 30 minutes.“ The in the heart of Helmand. Afghan police are now in a position to take lead responsibility for security in Babaji. senior insurgent commander I’ve been genuinely impressed by them was killed after a strike from and know they are ready to take over.” an Apache helicopter as Maj Chris Bisset, OC of the UK Apache soldiers from D Coy 5 RIFLES In Op Kapcha Shkar Kawel, or ‘Cobra intelligence. It was later discovered that Squadron said: “This is a good example Aand their ANSF partners conducted Hunt’, more than 40 Riflemen and ANSF set the insurgent killed in the Apache strike of why the Apache is deployed to support operations in the Nahr-e Saraj district. out to disrupt the insurgency and gather was a senior commander in the local area. troops on the ground in Afghanistan. In the past two months, the combined intelligence on Taliban leaders in the area. Capt Ben Worley, D Coy fire support AAC Apaches are flown by Army pilots forces have pushed the insurgency out of After two hours Taliban fighters began team commander, who co-ordinates who have a very good understanding of the Babaji area of the district, helping the to fire upon the troops and were spotted between the infantry and support assets what the ground commander is trying Afghan police to build new checkpoints in the act by intelligence assets. like the Apache said the strike will to achieve. “This insurgent had been and cut off routes used by insurgents to One of the fighters was tracked by a have damaged the insurgent command attempting to shoot at coalition troops over infiltrate the area and increase security. supporting Apache gunship, and when structure in the area. “An insurgent of a sustained period. By closely coordinating The responsibility for security of he opened fire on the patrol again the this calibre is hard to find, and this has with the ground forces, we were able to Babaji has been passed to Afghan Apache was cleared to engage and fired a been a decisive blow to the insurgency engage him in a safe area, which then police and the soldiers are now Hellfire missile at his position. The 5 RIFLES here. It was a great start to the operation allowed the troops on the ground to turning their attention to the Kopak soldiers and the ANA troops were then able and will set the conditions for the return to their primary job of reassuring Sappers have been building of supplying the daily needs of 1,500 region – an insurgent ‘safe haven’. to finish their mission and gather crucial future of D Coy in the Kopak area.” and protecting the local population.” bridges towards their role in people, built a bridge capable of carrying a the Army’s rapid reaction force. Challenger 2 main battle tank and repaired simulated bomb damage to an airfield. xercise EAGLE SAPPER Lt Col Hones, CO of 23 Engr Regt (Air MS Ocean has won the 2011 has tested the skills of Asslt), said: “This has been an arduous ARMY APACHES Effectiveness Trophy in two Woodbridge-based 23 exercise that has taken my soldiers back to INTEGRAL TO categories ‘Capital Ship’ and Engr Regt (Air Asslt) as basics and their core role as airborne sappers. ‘Naval Capability’, the latter in Eengineers first and soldiers second. All aspects of their combat engineering HMS OCEAN Hconjunction with the Air Group, which included The training has seen troops challenged and soldiering skills have been tested. WINNING Apaches from the Army Air Corps. The awards to break out of the Afghanistan mindset “The lessons learnt from this recognise the hard work of the ship’s company and return to their core role of providing exercise will shape how we perform PRESTIGIOUS and the embarked air group during 2011. engineering support to airborne forces. our role within the British Army’s high TROPHY FOR Last year HMS Ocean originally deployed This has meant swapping working with readiness contingency force.” to the Mediterranean for a seven week vehicles and living in permanent bases to The Airborne Task Force (ABTF) sees 16 SECOND YEAR amphibious exercise before being rapidly living out of rucksacks and operating with Air Assault Brigade maintain a force ready RUNNING re-tasked to the coast of Libya as part engineering equipment designed to be to deploy anywhere in the world at short of the NATO mission to protect civilians. dropped by parachute and manhandled. notice. 23 Engr Regt (Air Asslt) provides HMS Ocean has been awarded Once there, her Army and Navy helicopters During the exercise, which has taken close combat engineering support to the a trophy as the Royal Navy’s dealt precise blows to the Gaddafi regime place across East Anglia, troops have ABTF, allowing it to fight, move and live. most effective large ship with the Apaches flying 49 missions and polished their infantry skills on the ranges Sapper Joe Small, who served in for 2011, having also won the Sea King Mk7s completing 99 sorties. at Thetford and practised their core Afghanistan last year, said that the it in 2010. However, this There were more than 2,000 deck landings engineering abilities, while living out in exercise had been “tough, but a good year the award was won by embarked and visiting aircraft. Also present onboard at the trophy campaign which was presented to the the field and marching more than 40 miles lesson in a different way of working. It’s with the aid of elements of HMS Ocean’s Commanding Officer, presentation was Major Mike Neville of ship’s officers to hang in the Wardroom. carrying rucksacks weighing up to 100lbs. very different to Afghanistan, where we the Army’s Apache Force. Captain Andrew Betton said: “It was a huge the Army Air Corps, who commanded the The main focus for HMS Ocean this On 7th March 2012, 51 Parachute lived in Forward Operating Bases and honour to win the trophy for a second year Apaches last year, and Mr Derek Blois, summer will be supporting the Olympics. Squadron Royal Engineers was at went on planned operations. Contingency running and underlines the inherently versatile an artist and father of one of the Apache When Army helicopters will again embark Waterbeach Barracks, near Cambridge, operations are about living in the field nature of amphibious ships like HMS Ocean pilots based onboard HMS Ocean. He when the ship will be based at Greenwich, after an overnight tab from Ely. The and doing our job as engineers with and in particular the capability and flexibility has painted a picture to commemorate acting as a base to enhance the existing sappers built a water point capable the kit we can carry ourselves.” of the sailors and marines serving onboard. “ the ship’s involvement with the Libya UK air security arrangements.

14 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 15 Feature News CinC Fleet Junglies Receives in Nordic Warm Search & Reception Rescue

Pictured: CinCFleet (Left) Flying a Sea King Helicopter with Lt Adam Spike RN (Right) We’re not involved in Search and Rescue on a daily basis, but we always try to help if we can, especially if there’s a danger that lives will be lost. Maj West

JUNGLIES IN NORDIC SEARCH &RESCUE A Sea King from Commando Helicopter Force on exercise in Norway rescued a stranded fisherman.

he helicopter crew came The aircrew was made up of to the rescue after local Corporal Mark Haffenden, Lieutenant authorities sought assistance Commander Neil Davidson and from the UK forces Colour Sergeant Gladys Knight. Tundertaking winter training at Bardufoss, Major David West RM of the as part of Exercise CLOCKWORK. Commando Helicopter Force said: CINC FLEET RECEIVES A fishing boat with a single occupant “We’re not involved in Search and had run aground on a reef. The Sea Rescue on a daily basis, but we always WARM RECEPTION IN THE ARCTIC King was sent to assist and was able try to help if we can, especially if there’s to rescue the fisherman safely. a danger that lives will be lost.” CinC Fleet Admiral Zambellas DSC visited Naval personnel showed the CinC around a FOB. He Capt Briers RN, said “Clockwork is as 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle at the JHC training base viewed various key positions, spoke to relevant and as important today as it has in Bardufoss, Norway. The base, known as “Clockwork JHC,” personnel, and even shared lunch from always been. It enables us to prepare provides survival and operational training and support an Arctic 24 hour ration pack in the our people for operations in Afghanistan facilities that enable aviation capable units to survive, dining room, a ‘lean-to’ survival shelter. and it’s absolutely fundamental to the operate and fight in extreme cold weather environments. The highlight of the visit was when delivery of littoral manoeuvre given the The inhospitable terrain, extreme weather conditions he took to the skies in a Sea King Mk4. geography and the excellent facilities and temperatures as low as -35°C makes Bardufoss the A helicopter pilot himself, he viewed a that exist in the local area. Also in a ideal location for cold weather warfare training. number of snow landings before taking wider sense it enables our people to go control of the aircraft for a navigation anywhere in the world and operate very uring his visit Adml sortie over the Norwegian mountains. complex aircraft in the most challenging Zambellas met some of On completion of his visit Admiral of environments. If you can operate in the 200 strong contingent Zambellas said, “Clockwork training at Norway you can operate anywhere.” from CHF. The ‘Junglies’, Bardufoss is a jewel in our defence crown. Maj West RM, OIC Clockwork Dfrom RNAS Yeovilton were deployed We are training about 700 personnel a said: “We were delighted to host to Clockwork to undertaking training year in specialist skills, in outstanding the CinC. He confirmed his full and make preparations for Ex Cold facilities, for a very good price.” He further support for the training that we are Response which took place in the added: “We have land, mountain, air and conducting here in Norway, both in northern Norway in mid-March. sea training areas with firing ranges all enhancing and consolidating our Arctic Capt Briers RN, CO CHF, showed very close to a major Norwegian airfield. operating procedures and for the the Admiral how well his command is This is exactly what we need to maintain force generation for the amphibious prepared for Cold Response when he joint skills in a challenging environment.” exercise Cold Response.”

16 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 17 Feature Charity Exercise Soldiers’ Pashtun Marathon Jaguar Effort

WO2 Jones said the team, which Soldiers’ included seasoned endurance runners and private soldiers fresh out of training and marathon running their first marathon, crossed the effort for line together in a time of 5 hours 24 minutes after “an arduous but enjoyable” run. charity He said: “We were quickly identified as British soldiers, so there was a lot of banter A team of airborne logistics with Marines who were running and the specialists raised more crowds lining the route! It was an undulating than £7,500 for Help for course but the encouragement we got kept Heroes by taking on the spirits high, even as our legs and shoulders United States Marine Corps were beginning to tire in the last few miles. said: ‘that’s 290 people through in on their home turf. “It was a great challenge and we’re 32 minutes.’ With the Mess pulling delighted to have raised a significant people through with the efficiency of team of 12 troops from sum of money for Help for Heroes, a factory conveyer-belt, Flying Officer Colchester-based 13 Air a charity which does so much good Tim Bailey, a pilot from 230 Squadron, Assault Support Regiment work to support the military. said: ‘The food here is awesome. We The (13 “As well as collecting sponsorship normally replicate a similar operations AAA Sp Regt RLC) flew out to Washington from friends and family, our fundraising set-up on this exercise to what we have DC to join more than 20,000 runners including collections outside supermarkets in Kenya but it would be great if we taking part in the USMC Marathon. in Colchester on our final training run, which could make 3MCS a part of that!’. The soldiers shouldered 40lb raised £1,200 in one afternoon. I’d like to As the first of the three nine-day rucksacks to tackle the 26.2 mile route, thank everyone who has supported us.” training cycles drew to a close, the RLS which started and finished at Arlington The money helped fund the Personnel team had delivered everything that had National Cemetery and took in landmarks Recovery Centre (PRC) at Colchester been asked for. The tent city was well- like the Lincoln Memorial, US Capitol Garrison, which opened in May to give established, with surprising complaints Building and the White House. wounded, injured and sick soldiers such as ‘My tent is hotter than the sun!’, On their return team leader WO2 additional care and support to help them a feat deemed unbelievable on Salisbury John Jones presented a cheque for successfully return to duties or transition Plain in sub-zero temperatures - all thanks £7,658.13 to Marianne West, Help for into civilian life. Help for Heroes has to the working party and the General Heroes’ Essex county co-ordinator. funded the building’s capital costs. RAF BENSON DELIVERS REAL LIFE SUPPORT Engineering Flight. In the air, Merlin and Puma crews showcased the agility and capabilities of their aircraft. On the EXERCISE PASHTUN JAGUAR ground, they were kept healthy by the first-class showers and laundry provided by the Operational Hygiene Unit – all TA In 1912 Airfield Camp, personnel from the Merlin, Puma, Chinook, teams were formed. Their mission: to members of the Royal Logistics Corps. Netheravon was a hive of Apache and Lynx forces but also provides build ten tents per day so the site would Not all personnel on site will be activity. The field, blanketed essential aviation support for Army Battle be up and running for the start date. By heading out to Afghanistan, but everyone with white bell tents, was Groups participating in Exercise PASHTUN 1700 hours on Day One great progress provided a valuable contribution to a founding location of DAWN, the Op HERRICK 16 Task Force had been made, with 18 tents erected. the exercise. As Corporal Dawn Danby, the Royal Flying Corps. Helmand Collective Training exercise. Once the site had been set up the a steward in the Mess, said: ‘Being a Here, young public school The MRX provides a realistic training biggest challenge was maintaining the caterer is not as cool as saying you’re a graduates underwent flying environment where Air and Land forces tents in -11°C and snowy conditions before Puma pilot, but is just as important.’ training, learning how work together in a cohesive battlespace. the exercising personnel arrived. Each to support ground troops Within the tented replica of the Joint morning included a 100% tent check, through Air Balloon defence Helicopter Force (Afghanistan) (JHF(A)) removing two-inch thick ice puddles and How 3 Mobile Catering and attack, reconnaissance Headquarters, personnel who will fulfil sweeping snow off the sagging tent roofs. Squadron make breakfast and aerial photography. command roles in Theatre are provided Within the first two days of the exercise for 400 people: with the opportunity to plan and execute the working strength within JHF(A) had n 2012 the site, lined with over 70 timely responses to realistic scenarios. increased to 498. 3 Mobile Catering • 400 Eggs olive green tents, creates an image The exercise prepares JHC personnel and Squadron (3MCS) from RAF Wittering, • 18kgs Bacon not too dissimilar to 100 years Army Brigade troops for the threats that supported by chefs and stewards from • 18kgs Sausage ago. Aviators and groundcrew they will face together in Afghanistan. RAF Benson and RAF Odiham, were • 15kgs Baked beans Ifrom JHC units have deployed to the site Prior to the exercise commencing the ready, assuring OC RLS, Squadron Leader • 11kgs Tinned Tomatoes as part of Exercise PASHTUN JAGUAR Real Life Support (RLS) staff from RAF Jim Thorley, that the feat of feeding • 10 Loaves of bread (fried) 1/12, this winter’s JHC Aviation Mission Benson had already been busy on site for 500 personnel could be met within two • 46l Tea Readiness Exercise (MRX). The current two weeks, working behind the scenes hours. Within the first few manic minutes • 20l Coffee exercise not only delivers training for JHC to ensure the exercise ran smoothly. Six of the mess tent opening, FS Daz Parker

18 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 19 Exercise Exercise Serpent’s Chiltern Anvil Kite

Exercise Chiltern Kite RAF reservists from squadrons across the country have taken part in a major exercise on Salisbury Plain.

xercise Chiltern Kite, which Wing and 1 Police Squadron who have ran between 13th-15th conducted trade training in the field for April, was one of the largest reserve policemen,” said Sqn Ldr Lane. Royal Auxiliary Air Force For helicopter crews the opportunity E(RAuxAF) exercises in recent years. to practice missions used on operations We’ve brought together more than to gain and retain currency in a variety half of the squadrons from across the UK of techniques was eagerly taken. to participate in a demonstration of our This included tactical flying, carrying contingent capability,” said Sqn Ldr Gary underslung loads and moving troops. Airborne medics Lane, OC 606 (Chiltern) Sqn. “Whilst it’s One of the largest contingents came recognised that these Reserves will not from 4626 Aeromedical Evacuation deploy together as a force, the realism Squadron based at RAF Lyneham whose test of the scenario here has replicated the 50 personnel included a Doctor, nurses, mobilisation experiences they undergo paramedics and physiotherapist worked unique when they are individual augmentees.” in a tented Aeromedical Support Unit. evacuation of ex-patriots and embassy WO Bill Bailey RAuxAF, Command “This is essentially a deployed A+E staff via a passenger handling facility. WO (Reserves), added: “We have lots [Accident and Emergency] capability,” said “The benefit for us is to work on an skills of squadrons with different expertise, Wg Cdr Colin Mathieson. “The training forward operating base at short notice and by bringing them together we we’re getting is basically testing the and to live in a field environment,” are able to replicate what they will training we’ve done this year through a said WO Matt Dillon. “We are used to Airborne medics have portable digital X-ray machine and Specialist personnel in the unit including experience on operations.” series of medical scenarios. We also have working in large main operating bases hammered out the skills they handheld diagnostic scanners. orthopaedic surgeons, biomedical scientists Within hours of arrival of the lead force four personnel deployed with the RAF such as Camp Bastion and being here might need for operations Lt Col Steven Tracey, CO of 16 Med Regt, and combat medical technicians. elements, a large forward operating base Regt in the battlefield medic role.” And in very basic conditions means we have around the world on Exercise said: “We offer a was established in a fictitious overseas the scenario was intense: “The amount to improvise and think on our feet.” SERPENT’S ANVIL. unique capability state. Out beyond the wire, RAF Regt of training injects here in 48 hours the Based at RAF Henlow, 3 Police Sqn work within the British gunners drawn from four squadrons equivalent to a week at Bastion,” continued closely on operations with their regular roops from Colchester- military, not just the operated as one to provide security Wg Cdr Mathieson. “But it’s not just the counterparts at 1 Police Sqn: “The exercise based 16 Medical Regiment Army, of being able This exercise is as for the main force, which included clinical training; it’s using the clinical skills has been a unique opportunity for our (16 Med Regt) tested their to deploy a surgical realistic as it can be a number of regular RAF units. they’ve already got in a field scenario.” police trainees to undertake their final techniques and the high- team by parachute. “Chiltern Kite would not have been In a nearby building air movements environmental training in the field,” said Ttech, lightweight equipment they would “To be ready made. We only have the possible without the support of the personnel from 4624 (County of Oxford) Sqn Ldr Bev Peart, Chief of Staff 3 Police use to provide medical care to the for our role in the Puma and Merlins of RAF Benson, the Sqn, based at RAF Brize Norton, Wg (3 PW). “We usually do this on the Airborne Task Force (ABTF) – the British ABTF we have to supplies we would be able fuelling assets from Tactical Support made preparations for the potential airfield at RAF Henlow so to get out into the Army’s new rapid reaction force. move away from our to deploy with and treat field in a realistic scenario with many other The exercise, held at the Army recent experiences units and capabilities can only enhance the Medical Services Training Centre in in Afghanistan. casualties in real time. training we deliver. We’ve used this on 3 York, saw medics tested to the limits We could find Lt Col Parker PW as an opportunity to conduct collective of their capabilities, kit and supplies. A ourselves operating training with both squadrons, Regular and field hospital, including a resuscitation in conditions that Reserve, to further forge integration.” suite, operating theatre and intensive are hostile, not just With the exercise over, the RAuxAF care ward, was set up to treat simulated in terms of fighting, but the lack of depth Senior surgeon Lt Col Paul Parker said: units returned to their RAF Stations; casualties using equipment such as to transport and medical resources and “This exercise is as realistic as it can be made. personnel ready to return to work environmental conditions, such as sanitation We only have the supplies we would be able to on Monday morning and answer the and the prevalence of tropical disease. deploy with and treat casualties in real time.” inevitable question from colleagues: “Do “This requires our medics to develop A key piece of equipment is the Dragon anything interesting at the weekend?” a different mindset to work without digital X-ray machine, which was issued Members of the RAuxAF undertake key the safety net there is in Afghanistan of to 16 Med Regt in September 2011 after functions in support of operations such having what is probably the best trauma being used successfully in Afghanistan. as intelligence, a wide variety of medical hospital in the world a quick helicopter ride Radiographer Sgt Dave Everiss roles, logistics, media operations and force away. This training has tested our ability said: “It’s the difference between film protection. There are twenty squadrons to work light, fast and on our own.” photography and a digital camera, giving of the RAuxAF, comprising some 1,300 16 Med Regt provides Role 2 medical us an X-ray in three seconds rather than personnel. These reserves operate alongside support to the ABTF, offering consultant-lead minutes. It’s a lifesaving piece of kit that regular RAF personnel, both in the UK life, limb and eyesight saving resuscitation will make a massive difference to the and when deployed on operations and and surgery as well as primary healthcare. speed we can give treatment at.” are a vital part of the front line RAF.

20 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 21 Honours News & Awards Phantom Heritage Returns to Volunteer Wattisham

aggie Aggiss, Chair of the Heritage Group, was presented with a Commander’s I am delighted and overwhelmed MCommendation by Wattisham Stn Cdr Col Neale Moss OBE and David Ruffley MP. to receive the Commander’s gone away better informed about The presentation honoured Mrs Aggiss’ Wattisham, its role and capabilities.” 20 year long involvement with the heritage Commendation in recognition of Wattisham Heritage Museum re-opened group. It was made as Mr Ruffley, MP for the work I have carried out… to public visitors in April and thereafter Bury St Edmunds, reopened the station Mrs Aggiss on the first Sunday of every month until museum and the Hawker Hunter, one 7th October. Visits can only be made by of the RAF’s Black Arrows display team appointment, for more information visit which used to be based at Wattisham. www.wattishamairfieldmuseum.org Col Moss said: “Wattisham has a long Mrs Aggiss said: “I am delighted and was one of the last RAF planes to fly out and proud history as a base for the RAF overwhelmed to receive the Commander’s of Wattisham and is returning to the base Hawker Hunter XG194 and USAAF, and is now home to the Commendation in recognition of the after standing as a gate guardian at RAF The aircraft was delivered to the RAF British Army’s Apache attack helicopters. work I have carried out for Wattisham’s Brampton, Cambs. (see adjacent article) on October 3rd 1956. Flown by Air Cdre Maggie Aggiss deserves recognition proud heritage, which is very important to During his visit to Wattisham, Mr Roger Topp, OC 111 Sqn, she was the lead as the driving force in recording and enthusiasts, veterans, serving personnel Ruffley also looked round an Apache aircraft in the Black Arrows Display Team preserving Wattisham’s history. She has and the local community alike. I would and spoke to the soldiers who fly and when they performed a 22 aircraft loop been instrumental in establishing the station like to thank my Heritage group members maintain it, as well as touring the base’s at Farnborough Air show in July 1958. museum in 1992, creating a memorial who have worked so hard to restore welfare facilities and speaking with the When the aircraft was grounded it dedicated to those who have lost their the Hunter and fit out the Museum.” families of deployed service personnel. was modified to resemble a Russian lives while serving here and overseeing The heritage group’s next project is Col Moss said: “It was a pleasure to Mig fighter and put on the edge of RAF the restoration of Hunter XG194.” the restoration of Phantom XT914, which host Mr Ruffley and I hope that he has North Luffenham runway as a target. The aircraft was acquired by Wattisham Airfield Heritage Group in 2009 and Army honours work has continued since to restore it. The aircraft has been named Blackjack in honour of Air Cdre Topp and will eventually Phantom heritage volunteer wear the livery of the Black Arrows. returns to Wattisham A tireless volunteer has been honoured for her A Brief History of Under the cover of darkness said: “Although It’s a sad day for RAF dedication to preserving Wattisham’s history as the Wattisham Flying Station: a Phantom slipped back in to Brampton, its good news for the Phantom station’s museum was reopened after refurbishment The construction of Wattisham Airfield Wattisham, two decades after X914, which will return to its home unit and a restored Hawker Hunter fighter unveiled. was started in 1937 during the RAF’s the aircraft took off from to be lovingly refurbished. The Phantom significant expansion in the late 1930s, the base for the last time. has been a focal point for both RAF with the Blenheim bombers of 107 and 110 Brampton personnel and the local Squadrons taking up residence in 1939. hantom XT914 was one community. Its departure really does These squadrons flew the first bombing of the last RAF planes to mark the start of the Station’s closure.” raid of World War II, only hours after war be based at Wattisham Maggie Aggiss, chair of the heritage was declared on 3rd September 1939. before the station was group, said: “I would like to thank all who RAF Wattisham was transferred Phanded over to the Army in 1993. have worked so hard to get XT914 back to to the USAAF’s 8th Air Force in The aircraft had stood as a gate Wattisham. It made a very dramatic return 1942. 434th, 435th and 436th Sqns guardian at RAF Brampton, Cambs, in the dead of night and it was almost were based at Wattisham, flying P38 but with the station’s closure in 2013, surreal to see the aircraft back almost Lightnings and P51 Mustang. XT914 is coming back to Wattisham for 20 years to the day that it left. There is a After the war the RAF took back refurbishment before going on display lot of hard work ahead to refurbish the Wattisham, with the Meteor jet fighters at the Wattisham Heritage Museum. aircraft, with the aim being to return it of 257 and 263 Squadrons arriving in The Phantom arrived at Wattisham to the special livery it wore when it flew 1950. Squadrons flying Hunter, Javelin on 8 March after being moved from out of Wattisham for the last time.” and Lightning aircraft were based at RAF Brampton on the back of a lorry Wattisham’s 74 (Tiger) and 56 (Firebirds) the station. The Black Arrows display by the Joint Aircraft Recovery and Squadrons had been the last units to team, one of the predecessors of Transportation Squadron. Troops from operate the Phantom and XT914 flew today’s Red Arrows, flew their Hunters 7 Air Asslt Btln REME lifted the aircraft displays painted with the colours of from Wattisham in the 1950s. into one of Wattisham’s Cold War-era both squadrons to celebrate the fighter The last RAF squadrons to operate Hardened Aircraft Shelters, where jet’s retirement from the RAF in 1992. from Wattisham were Nos 56 and 74, who volunteers from Wattisham Airfield After its last flight, the aircraft was flew the Phantom from 1976. Wattisham Heritage Group will work on it. saved from the scrap yard to stand as a closed as an RAF Station in July 1993 Sqn Ldr Paul Tuite, OC Ops and gate guardian at RAF Leeming, North and was transferred to the Army. Trg at RAF Brampton, Wyton, Henlow, Yorks, and then at RAF Brampton.

22 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 23 News News Nutritional Not Just & Dietry Test Tubes Supplements & Lab Coats

Military Use Military use is common. By one report, more than half of US Army Soldiers used NOT JUST supplements at least once per week. TEST TUBES In the UK a recent paper in the RAMC Journal noted that almost half of those &LAB COATS surveyed during an Op TELIC deployment admitted to a history of supplement use, Helen Sherwood has joined and almost one-third were current users. JHC as Assistant Director, The most common reasons for use cited Science and Technology, on included ‘increase muscle bulk,’ or to secondment from DSTL. aid training and recovery. Alarmingly, a small subset admitted to current use of y newly-created role is to operations remains an important area for anabolic steroids. Afghanistan was worse: ensure JHC’s Science & S&T. Recent activities have focused on the a similar study noted more than half Technology (S&T) needs kinetic threat in Afghanistan and Libya, and (56.3%) admitted to a history of use with are met, and facilitate the challenges posed by the harsh operating 40.2% actively using. Case reports include Mreach-back into the S&T community to help environment in Afghanistan. These include soldiers treated for conditions such as support the challenges you’re facing. vulnerability mitigation options, ‘hot and Above & Left: acute liver injury and psychotic reaction The release of the ‘National Security high’ performance and, last but not least, Nutritional&Dietary Supplements: Images courtesy of www.fda. associated with supplement use in theatre. Through Technology’ White Paper brings brown-out. Specific examples of where gov into sharp focus the challenges that S&T has helped in the field of survivability A Word of Caution Practical Guidance Defence and Security are currently facing, and vulnerability are armour improvements & the Smart Consumer and how S&T can help. This is however and the BAKER DAS upgrade – these Exceptional or unrealistic claims are S&T in its broadest sense – research into are fitted to platforms in theatre now. For many, summer is a time to re-commit to health and Regulators warn about dangerous probably not true. While not every technologies, their development into One of the challenges in addressing fitness. Unfortunately, for some this will include the use of products marketed as supplements. In supplement is harmful, be sceptical of systems and a raft of what’s referred to capability gaps is that it can take a while to over-the-counter (OTC) dietary or nutritional supplements. the US the Food and Drug Administration dubious claims such as ‘cure-all’ or ‘cures as ‘decision support’. Decision support, adequately de-risk solutions before they can has found nearly 300 fraudulent products diseases.’ Beware of anecdotal information through operational analysis, isn’t about be embodied. Given the uncertainties that s the cliché says, ‘you are what effects of many of these substances (promoted principally for weight loss, or personal testimonials suggesting the developing new widgets: it’s a critical the future holds, requirements can change you eat.’ Our bodies require for use as health supplements. In most muscle building, and sexual enhancement), incredible benefits of using the product. element of Chief Scientific Advisor’s during this period. Therefore, a close working vitamins, minerals, proteins, cases, what is required (in addition to a with many reports of harmful health research programme and underpins relationship between the S&T community and other essential nutrients. comprehensive fitness programme) is effects. While in many cases ingestion Defence’s intelligent customer status. and all parts of Defence is critical, including ANutritional science has made enormous simply a well-rounded, nutritional diet. of supplements simply gives the user Also look out for: What does this mean in reality? It exploiting lessons from current operations strides understanding how deficits (and Don’t necessarily accept that the use of expensive urine, these products can be • Products claiming to be enables Defence excess) of these nutrients can impair the words on supplement labels like ‘healthy and dangerous. The harm may come from the alternatives to or have similar to set policy- body and cause pathology. While an interest natural’ translate into ‘safe and effective.’ substances themselves, from unscrupulous effects as prescription medication led capability in nutrition and sports science should be The fact is that some of these products can consumers taking ‘mega-doses’, or from • Products claiming to be legal requirements encouraged, we must also exercise caution cause you harm. For example, most are drug interaction with prescribed medication. alternatives to anabolic steroids informed by One of the (and a healthy degree of scepticism) when familiar with ephedra • Products providing objective evidence, challenges in it comes to the use of OTC supplements. alkaloids, marketed warnings regarding testing to assess gaps The trap that many fall prey to is for weight loss or positive on performance compared with addressing thinking that because a beneficial effect athletic performance enhancement drug tests planned capabilities, capability gaps is occurs, it must be due to the supplement, enhancement. After The most common • Products marketed through and evaluate instead of other changes. Let’s say you many unfortunate mass emails or primarily courses of action, that it can take a decide to improve your health-lose fat, get outcomes, ephedra reasons for use cited in foreign language including identifying stronger, improve physical fitness etc. This was implicated in included ‘increase • Claims of a ‘radical new discovery’ those where while to adequately usually entails a major change in health cases of dangerously or exclusively available product research is required. de-risk solutions habits: you go to the gym more often, high blood pressure, muscle bulk,’ or to aid • Product that it ‘does it all’ with A key part of this have more rigorous workouts, cut alcohol, disturbance in claims to help with a wide- is understanding before they can improve diet… and buy supplements. heart rhythm, training and recovery. range of unrelated conditions others’ capability After some positive changes are realised, heart attacks, • Claims utilising meaningless requirements be embodied. you mistakenly attribute the gains (at strokes, seizures, medical jargon. and research least in part) to the supplements, instead and psychiatric priorities, and of your fitness and lifestyle changes. It’s symptoms. comparing these likely the supplements had little, if any, Other supplement constituents have Although many of these substances can have Embrace your commitment to improved to our own – this should enable us to get – where have things gone well or not so effect and may have even been harmful. been reported to cause liver toxicity, drug-like effects, they are regulated as foods, health, but be smart. Don’t be taken the best ‘bang for our buck’ and maintain well, and could S&T help in the future? JHC cirrhosis, kidney toxicity or genitourinary rather than drugs. The take home message in by product claims that seem too productive working relationships across are a key part of this activity and one of Caution Advised! cancers (Aristolochia, for example). Some is that these products are not subject to the good to be true. Don’t mindlessly a wide range of stakeholders in MOD, the aims of my role is to help with this. Supplements are a multi-billion dollar supplements have had major purity same regulatory scrutiny as medications, and ingest substances with which you are Other Government Depts and Industry. And just to ease your concerns, or confirm industry, and use is common. But there problems – contaminated with heavy just because you see a supplement bottle on unfamiliar or unknowledgeable. Talk to What about the ‘here and now’? In line my ‘geekiness’, I’ve not used test tubes since is little evidence regarding the biologic metals, prescription and even illicit drugs. the shelf does not mean it is safe or effective. your doctor-and see you in the gym! with Defence priorities, supporting current leaving school but I do have a lab coat!

24 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 25 Exercise White Knight

Soldiers cycle round the clock for charity A team of Wattisham- pictured: ATpr based soldiers rode for Anstey competing in the Army Championships 24 hours to raise money for Help for Heroes.

he six-strong chain gang from 3 Regiment Army Air Corps (3 Regt AAC) 9 REGT AAC ALPINE SKIING rode an exercise bike Toutside Tesco Extra in Ipswich from Exercise noon on Friday 24th February to noon on Saturday 25th February. The endurance challenge was part White Knight of a fundraising effort that also saw three of the soldiers swap two wheels 9 Regt AAC Alpine Ski Team, led by Capt Mike Rivington, for two legs to run the Barcelona embarked on the 28th Annual RAC and AAC ski meet, Marathon on Sunday 25th March. Ex WHITE KNIGHT in Verbier, Switzerland. The runners and riders were Sergeant Gregg Allen, Corporal Trevor Bygate he aim of the exercise was general ski training was conducted for and Lance Corporal Natalie Toby. to facilitate a training camp the first two weeks. This took place from The cycling went much better for six soldiers over six first lift 0830 until 1600, six days a week. than expected. Cpl Bygate said: ‘The weeks in order to prepare Pole training was conducted on the whole event went really well. The Tunits to go on and compete in the specific training slopes in both Verbier team worked very hard to complete Downhill Alpine skiing disciplines and the and the Savolyres area to prepare the the cycle, raising a total of £3,000 and Divisional and Army Championships. competitors for racing in Verbier and after cycling a total distance of 705 miles for Not withstanding the ongoing in Les Contamines involving Slalom, Giant the two bikes over the 24 hours. The operational commitments, 9 Regt AAC Slalom, Super G and Downhill events. public were very supportive throughout remains committed to contributing to Ex The Swiss Ski School’s ethos to teach all and Tesco’s support was great.’ WHITE KNIGHT not only because of the competitors to ski in all conditions, not just Sgt Allen said: ‘It is a good cause recognised AT benefits, but also the need to in racing, is vital. It taught general safety and having been to Afghanistan and retain a presence within Army winter sports. and awareness on the slopes, as well as worked at Camp Bastion we only get This year’s commitment of two Officers an ability to adapt to changing conditions. to see the Apache at the start and and four other ranks was a truly novice This depth of instruction imbued a sense end of its mission. The work the guys team The plan was to split the Ex into the of awareness and safety in the novice do out on the ground is far more training camp in Verbier and then move to skiers, which proved excellent advice. dangerous and it’s important that Les Contamines, France for the combined Overall, 9 Regt AAC had a very those who get injured are supported.’ 1 and 2 Div Champs. Verbier is an excellent successful season finishing 10th out of 17 To sponsor the team, visit www. location to conduct Ex WHITE KNIGHT. The in the 2 Div Championships, qualifying bmycharity.com/24hrcycleh4h resort is one of Europe’s finest and has the for the Army Championship. There was barcelonamarathon2012. infrastructure to match; Les Contamines also individual success at the Army has specialist race pistes allowing for the Championship, where ATpr Anstey finished change in emphasis from free skiing to 20th overall – not bad for his first time on racing, although the resort itself is smaller, skis. The Regt looks forward to continuing it is an ideal location for this phase. The this year’s successes in 2012 and, looking training received in Verbier by the Swiss Ski at the bigger picture, it opened up a huge School was excellent; the local knowledge opportunity for serving soldiers to break and experience they offered provided a away from what is an increasingly busy service that organic assets could never Regimental duty and really benefit from deliver. On arrival, all competitors were the experiences gained from competing grouped according to ability and extensive in a technically arduous winter sport.

26 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZLZDZ | IS| ISsuesue xx xx 2012 2012 | 27| 27 Sport 3 PARA Charity Punch their Soldiers Fish Way to Their Way Boxing Title to Fitness

to catch three trout, which is not bad going for an absolute beginner!” Paras We are Cpl Chris Pendle, said: “I’ve done some fishing before, but nothing as delighted to technical as fly fishing. I’ve enjoyed it and really appreciate the effort that have reclaimed has been put in to looking after us.” our title. 22 The troops were from 2 PARA’s recovery platoon, which support soldiers Engr Regt injured on provided strong operations or in Soldiers training as they their way to lifting Army boxing title opponents work their way punch back to full fitness. and must be fish their way Lt Sam Soldiers from 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment have Westlake said: won the Army’s boxing title for the seventh time in ten years. congratulated to fitness “Each soldier on reaching has a detailed Injured paratroopers cast away their and demanding the final… worries as they enjoyed a day of fishing recovery plan to olchester-based 3 PARA lifted the or 2011 because it was on operations in ’fantastic.’ Maj Hendry said: ‘We are Maj Hendry organised by a military charity. get them fixed and belt in resounding fashion after Afghanistan. This year’s victory comes delighted to have reclaimed our title. 22 Engr are committed beating 22 Engineer Regiment within 12 months of returning from Regt provided strong opponents and must roops from Colchester- to achieving that. This event is a reward 8-1 in the final of the Army Major a tour of Afghanistan, in which time be congratulated on reaching the final, it based 2 PARA spent the for their hard work and everyone has CUnits Boxing Championship at Aldershot. the unit has taken on the role as the was just that our boxers were fitter, stronger, day at Chigboro Fisheries really enjoyed it. Fishing for Forces and 3 PARA has won the competition British Army’s rapid reaction force. technically better and more determined.’ in Heybridge, courtesy Chigboro Fisheries have looked after us every time it has entered since 2003, Maj Des Hendry is the 3 PARA boxing In front of a passionate and vocal full Tof Fishing for Forces. The charity really well and I can’t thank them enough.” and only did not compete in 2006, 2008 officer and described their victory as house of around 700 spectators, 3 PARA organises fishing events for military Fishing for Forces was set up in 2010 secured the win after straight victories personnel who have recently deployed by Bill Howell after he read a letter in an in the first five bouts. 22 Engr Regt won on operations and could benefit from angling magazine from a soldier enthusing the final heavyweight contest, with a relaxing day by the waterside. about the sport’s therapeutic benefits. the 3 PARA victories including three The event saw 13 soldiers who had all Last year 250 soldiers, sailors and airmen standing counts and one knockout. served in Afghanistan last year taught went fishing through the charity, with a Maj Hendry highlighted the quality of fly fishing, from the basics of how to quarter continuing with the sport. Bill the team’s coaches as the main reason cast a line to the fine art of tying flies. said: “The bottom line is whether soldiers for 3 PARA’s success. He said: ‘We know Pte Mark Vidler, who was shot in the are in hospital or whether they’re in a that when soldiers come to the battalion leg and received a MID for his skill at base or at home recovering, we’ve got from training they are going to be fit, finding IEDs, was among those tackling some fishing not too far away. So, if they strong and determined and provide good fishing for the first time. He said: “Fishing can get themselves to the waterside, raw material as boxers. Our coaches has been fantastic fun. It’s been a great we’ll happily organise the tackle, some have taken onboard the best practice opportunity to try something different lunch and a wonderful day out.” in boxing and given the guys excellent and take time out from the hard work of For more information about Fishing for technique to go with their talent. getting over my injury. I’ve even managed Forces visit www.fishingforforces.org. ‘We’ve got fresh blood coming through into our boxing team and the pressure is now on the rest of the Army to match the standards we have set in the ring.’ Maj Hendry emphasised that the boxers are soldiers first and ready to deploy as part of the Airborne Task Force (ABTF), which is maintained by to be ready to go on operations anywhere in the world at short notice. As Head coach, Sgt Pete Preece, said: ‘Most of the team came back from Afghanistan last spring and we have fitted boxing around our military training. As ABTF troops, our kit is packed and we’re ready to go.’

28 | ISsue 2, 2012 | LZDZ journal of the joint helicopter command www.lzdzonline.co.uk LZDZ | ISsue 2, 2012 | 29