the
Voice of Innsworth Station imjinAutumn 2019 West of berlin How a piece of the Wall ended up in Gloucester page 10 COMARRC’S INTRODUCTION
Herewith the autumn edition of the imjin magazine. Returning from NATO service overseas, I was delighted to take the helm from General Tim Radford and plan to continue his work here. The focus in this edition is to celebrate our heritage with anniversaries stretching from the beaches of Normandy to the fall of the Berlin Wall. It is difficult not to be struck by the opportunities arising from service with the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, Signals Brigade and those in Innsworth Station. Professionally we have an interesting, varied and suitably demanding training programme over the months ahead that will keep us sharp. The decision to make us the Corps Warfighting Headquarters for the next two years will drive our programme, the most immediate manifestation of which will be Exercise ‘ARRCADE FUSION’ in Cornwall this autumn. This will give purpose and, perhaps serendipitously, a degree of healthy specialisation. Concurrent experimentation is innovative and potentially transformational. Separately, the benefits are then relayed as training support from Estonia to Japan. It is an exciting prospect. On a more personal level, whether as an individual or family, opportunity abounds. The Cotswolds are on our doorstep and there is a wealth of opportunity in Gloucester, Cheltenham and Tewkesbury, quite aside from the broader opportunities further afield in the United Kingdom. The ARRC International Club is well placed to help British and foreign families alike. We shall maintain an attractive series of trips to see the hardy perennials and more bespoke visits of specific interest. Let us know where we can do more and we shall see what we can do. This magazine gives you a feel. I encourage you to read on. Take full advantage of the opportunities and fill every minute with 60 seconds run. I look forward to meeting you.
CONNECT WITH US Lieutenant General Sir Edward Smyth-Osbourne KCVO CBE Commander Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Imjin Barracks WORDS FROM THE EDITOR Innsworth, Gloucester How lucky are we to be associated with historic GL3 1HW Gloucester? Email: [email protected] Home of the Glorious Glosters and their heroics at the Battle of Imjin River, of HMS Gloucester, and RAF Telephone: +44 (0)1452 718007 Innsworth. The city of ‘Humpty Dumpty’, the canon that supposedly fell from Gloucester’s city walls during the English Civil War that all the King’s horses and all the King’s men For the latest on the Allied Rapid couldn’t put back together again. Reaction Corps visit our website A city founded by Roman soldiers in 97 AD – that continues to be home today to Italian troops (and their NATO allies) serving at the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps. www.arrc.nato.int It makes it all the more satisfying to see the NATO flags flying across Gloucester as we paraded through this famous city on Armed Forces Day. In this edition of we explore our part in the continuing military story here. @HQARRC the imjin We’ve visited Berlin and Kosovo to explore our historic ties to those twentieth century battlegrounds. And on the anniversary of D-Day, we released a pigeon from Normandy. Our plucky Allied Rapid Reaction Corps pigeon voyageur even made it back to Portsmouth in an impressive three hours. Glorious.
Major Laurence Roche Allied Rapid Reaction Corps
EDITOR’S NOTES Cover image: Lieutenant Colonel the imjin magazine is produced by ARRC Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Florian Raebel of the Public Affairs on behalf of Innsworth Station. German army in front The publication of an advert, article or photo of the section of the For staff and families posted to does not necessarily reflect the views of the Berlin Wall outside the ARRC, Partner nations or the UK MOD. ARRC’s headquarters in Imjin Barracks, there is a private Imjin Barracks. Taken by Facebook group. Search for Should you wish to include an article or photo Sergeant Paul Shaw RLC. in future editions, please contact the Public Imjin Station Community and Affairs Office on 01452 718007 or e-mail the imjin is designed [email protected] and printed by Manor ask to join the group. Printing Services The next edition of the imjin will be issued in www.manorprinting. December 2019. co.uk
2 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin @HQARRC Allied Rapid Reaction Corps the
Voice of Innsworth Station imjinSummer 2019
CONTENTS
NEWS
4 Allied Rapid Reaction Corps
10-11 COVER STORY Wall of Fame – How the Berlin Wall ended up in Gloucester
12 ARRC Support Battalion
13 1st (United Kingdom) Signal Brigade
14 MOD Defence Business Services
OUT AND ABOUT
16-17 What’s on
18-20 ARRC International Club
21 TRAVEL 101st place – Going Airborne in Aldbourne
WELFARE
22-23 Welfare news
24-25 Housing
26-27 Health
29 Worship
31 Useful telephone numbers WINGING IT Royal Signaller in D-Day tribute to our Corps’ past – page 7
the imjin AUTUMN 2019 3 Corps strength Training gears up as ARRC takes on key NATO commitment
Staff working at the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps can look forward to a testing period of exercises over the coming year – as NATO builds on the world class warfighting capability of the Corps. The additional training comes as the ARRC prepares to be held ‘at readiness’ by NATO as its corps warfighting headquarters from next year.
Gloucester remains a great place to live and work.
That role is supported by a well- resourced exercise programme, Bench Mark particularly over the next 18 months, Lieutenant General Sir Edward the ARRC – and I’d like to praise my beginning with the internal Exercise Smyth-Osbourne has completed the predecessor General Tim Radford for ‘Arrcade Fusion’ in Cornwall this handover of command of NATO’s his time at the helm. autumn, the opportunity for bilateral Allied Rapid Reaction Corps from “I’m really looking forward to my time training with the U.S. military in spring Lieutenant General Tim Radford. here in Gloucester, and continuing to 2020, and then a formal NATO combat Smyth-Osbourne (pictured right) develop the strong bond our NATO readiness evaluation next November. said: “I am delighted to be joining troops enjoy with the city.” WORKOUT PLAN the multinational team here at For more visit bit.ly/GlosHOTO Chief of Staff Major General Jez Bennett said: “This is a busy time for the ARRC as we enter our ‘exercise to be held at readiness since the Cold “But I promise that we will continue season’ towards the end of the year. War. to balance the hard work with other “But it’s also an exciting time as we “Professionally it will be very satisfying training and time spent with our look forward to being designated as as we prove our capabilities on families, ensuring that Gloucester the first NATO warfighting corps HQ Exercise ‘Arrcade Fusion’ in November. remains a great place to live and work.” FLAG DAY Hundreds of people have shown their other military personnel from the support for the British military as British armed forces, as well as many Gloucester celebrated ‘Armed Forces veterans and cadets as the parade Day 2019’ with a colourful parade made its way from the medieval through the city. cathedral to the city’s historic Flag-waving crowds – in places three dockyard. or four deep – gathered on College A special ceremony was held at the Street to watch the parade depart Gloucester Docks, which included a from Gloucester Cathedral on the speech by the ARRC’s Chief of Staff hottest day of the year (so far). on behalf of the British armed forces, Multi-national NATO troops from the as well as a flypast by a Second World Allied Rapid Reaction Corps joined War Spitfire aircraft.
4 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin @HQARRC Allied Rapid Reaction Corps ARRC NEWS Gongs for good A trio of majors serving with the ARRC’s headquarters have been presented with medals recognising meritorious and long service in their national armed forces. Polish staff officers, Majors Mateusz Barszcz and Tomasz Dering, and New Zealander Major Chris Shaw were each presented with their awards by General
NEWS IN BRIEF Radford during a simple ceremony in the Officers’ Mess. Speaking to the imjin, Major Dering said: “It’s a privilege to receive my medal from a ‘three-star’ corps commander, that’s not so typical in Poland. It’s special to be doing it here in the UK in front of our families and comrades.” The Polish pair each received the ‘Polish Silver Medal of Merit for National Defence’. Major Barszcz was also awarded a second silver medal by the Polish army for ‘Service of the Fatherland’. Meanwhile Major Shaw was NATO AT 70 presented with the ‘New Zealand Armed Forces Award’, in recognition of 15 years’ service. Alliance hailed at rain-soaked Shaw is currently posted to Gloucester as an exchange officer birthday parade and is the only New Zealander serving with the ARRC – and may The North Atlantic Treaty Organization FREE RAIN be the only Kiwi serving within the has been praised as a ‘pillar of stability’ whole of NATO. Over 400 troops witnessed the colourful – as events were held in Gloucester to event, which saw all 23 nations serving mark the Alliance’s 70th anniversary. with the NATO headquarters on parade Heavy rain failed to dampen a special under their respective nation’s flag. birthday parade at Imjin Barracks on the The General told them: “Our day that NATO turned 70. competence is strengthened further by Addressing the multinational troops our diversity; each nation bringing with on the parade square, the Commander it a particular and unique contribution.” of the ARRC, Lieutenant General Tim The Royal Artillery Band played on Radford, said: “NATO is an alliance through the drenching April shower – as united by shared history, shared values Poles apart – (left to right) Barszcz, the troops were treated to renditions of Shaw, and Dering with their awards. and shared goals. Together we work to the little-heard ‘NATO Anthem’ and the prevent conflict and to preserve peace.” ‘Allied Rapid Reaction Corps March’. And in a period of evolving security Ayo Gorkhali!* challenges, he added that “NATO To view the full gallery of images The UK Ministry of Defence has announced an increase to the will remain a pillar of stability in an visit the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps number of Gurkha soldiers that will Facebook site uncertain world.” serve at Gloucester in the future. The changes will see an enhanced role for the Brigade of Gurkhas supporting NATO, with additional specialist troops allocated to the Senior moment ARRC’s Support Battalion. The ARRC’s new Command Sergeant “The major benefit Alongside this new role, the MOD is establishing additional Gurkha Major has vowed to ensure junior of having a Engineer and Signals Squadrons. ranks reap the benefits from their time multinational HQ is The changes also see the creation serving within the Corps headquarters. the different ideas of The 3rd Battalion Royal Gurkha Rifles as a new Specialised Infantry As the Senior Enlisted Leader (SEL) and experiences Battalion for the British Army. within the Corps, Stuart Davison everyone brings to The units will allow Gurkhas to describes his role as the soldiers’ the party. We can all learn from each access more career opportunities, representative to the commander. including promotion and increased other, and the Speaking to the Imjin during his first chances to serve a full 24-year diversity we Army career. few weeks in the job, he explained: enjoy here “This is a great first posting for a young Minister for the Armed Forces Mark only creates Lancaster said: “The Gurkhas have soldier, and it’s a massive opportunity. a stronger built an outstanding reputation for Working in a NATO context will make team.” their skill and bravery as soldiers them more rounded, and they will through centuries of service and return to the field army with a different sacrifice. perspective. “They bring unique expertise and perspective to the United Kingdom “Part of my role is to make sure they’re Davison is from and British Army.” not feeling intimidated, feel part of the the British Army’s * ‘Here come the Gurkhas! team and embraced. Mercian Regiment
the imjin AUTUMN 2019 5 Our man in Radford to take top
MonsLieutenant General Tim Radford NATO job has departed Gloucester – to become the next ‘Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe’ (DESACEUR). Based at Mons in Belgium, he’ll be Britain’s top man in a U.K.-tied NATO appointment. Speaking exclusively to the imjin during his final week at the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, General Radford said: “It’s been hugely enjoyable. I’ve loved being here in Gloucester.” GRAND ALLIANCE “I think there’s real goodness in coming to spend a few years in this NATO environment. It just broadens your outlook,” he continues. “In the future, coalition warfare means we’re going to be working with other nations. “And there is something quite special about being in a NATO headquarters, where you have this diversity and you can harness all that energy and experience. And from twenty-plus nations, it’s priceless really.” IN GOOD SHAPE “There’s a great spirit here. Making new friendships has been great and I’ve learnt an awful lot from working with the different nations, which has set me up nicely for my next role as DESACEUR. “It will be a fascinating role, and taking over from General James There’s real Everard who has done the most brilliant job. It’s a great honour to goodness in coming be there, and to represent the to spend a few nation in what is a really important role at a very interesting time.” years in this NATO He concludes: “My overall message environment. to everyone at the ARRC is ‘thank you’ for all the hard work and for making it such a fun place to be, and to the families thank you for your support and your service.”
6 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin Early Bird Royal Signaller recreates first The number one message back from D-Day beaches reason they used A Royal Signaller serving with Dressed in authentic WW2 uniform, on Headquarters Allied Rapid Reaction loan from the Royal Signals Museum pigeons on D-Day Corps has re-enacted sending the in Blandford, the Royal Signaller first message back from the D-Day completed his own personal ‘D-Day’ was because beaches – by releasing a pigeon from journey by sailing across from Gosport of their homing France on the 75th anniversary of the to Normandy. Normandy landings. He said: “It’s awesome to be here, to instinct. Signaller Harry Swann from 252 Signal say the least. I’m proud to be able to Squadron – dressed in full WW2 complete this small act, to honour “A pigeon has got a tremendous ability uniform – released ‘Bernard’ from those soldiers who originally landed to find its way back to a central location Sword Beach in Normandy to re-enact here.” where it lives. Not much fazes them, the first message sent by homing they want to get back home, they have a really big incentive to get back pigeon on D-Day. Sword Beach in Normandy today home – be that for food, be that for their In June 1944, the Allied Rapid Reaction partners, etcetera. And in the Second Corps – as the British ‘I Corps’ – led World War it was to serve their country. thousands of multi-national troops landing on Sword and Juno beaches “With all the shells going off, with all in Normandy. To mark ‘D-Day 75’ this the chaos of gunfire and being so year, troops from the modern-day exposed in the open air, these birds Corps headquarters returned to would just go through it. So, it’s really France with members of the Royal important that they did that and they Pigeon Racing Association (RPRA). PIGEON VOYAGEUR did their duty. 75 years on, at the precise time and Carrier pigeons played a vital part “It has been incredible to recreate place, Signaller Swann released the in both world wars acting as military the iconic scene on Sword Beach pigeon from the seaside resort of messengers with their homing ability 75 years on. Hermanville-sur-Mer back to the UK to and speed. Over 100,000 pigeons “Working with NATO’s Allied Rapid represent the moment when the first were used by British troops with a Reaction Corps we have been able to troops had come ashore. success rate of 95% in delivering their further commemorate and highlight messages. the crucial role racing pigeons played WINGING IT Richard Cambers of the RPRA said: in wartime.” 24-year-old Signaller Swann works “The number one reason they used To watch the video of the pigeon within the NATO headquarters as an pigeons on D-Day was because of release from Sword Beach visit Installation Technician. their homing instinct. www.arrc.nato.int
@HQARRC Allied Rapid Reaction Corps the imjin AUTUMN 2019 7 Back to the Balkans British veterans of first KFOR mission return to Kosovo after 20 years
Troops serving with NATO’s original By pure coincidence, our two Kosovo ‘KFOR’ (Kosovo Force) mission have veterans, Lieutenant Colonel Nathan It’s great to see made an emotional return to the Webber of the Royal Artillery and Royal disputed territory for the first time Air Force officer Squadron Leader such a thriving since 1999 – to complete a personal Owen Newman, find themselves pilgrimage to the precise locations serving with the ARRC once again community where they served twenty years ago. at the very moment it marks twenty The pair of British officers from the years since it commanded the ground now. Allied Rapid Reaction Corps completed intervention in Kosovo. the trip to witness the progress made FIELD TRIP dressed landowner, Valon Vehapi in the country since 1999, with a visit Owen Newman looks at the scrubby (pictured above). to the capital Pristina, as well as to the field on the edge of Lipljan village and Speaking through our interpreter, two locations where they had been attempts to piece together the site’s the men quickly discover that twenty originally based - Lipljan and Podujevo. 1999 layout from memory. years ago they had shared that very The first KFOR mission in June 1999 As a member of the RAF’s Tactical same Gurkha kitchen, where Vehapi was commanded by the UK-led corps, Supply Wing, the squadron leader had worked as a locally-employed which had been stood up for the had been part of a team of specialists teenager. task given its recent operational responsible for providing a 24-hour On establishing that the RAF officer experience from the Bosnia conflict service refuelling NATO’s mixed is the first UK military serviceman to only a couple of years earlier. helicopter fleet. The airmen had return there in two decades, the men crossed the border during the early warmly embrace. Vehapi declares it days of KFOR’s advance into theatre the “best day of his life” when the before setting up in Lipljan. British first arrived in 1999. And it’s just as he’s reminiscing Soon afterwards the pair are sharing about the Gurkha soldiers who Turkish coffee and memories in had responsibility for the camp’s Vehapi’s family home. outer security – and for operating the catering tent, with its regular NORTHERN EXPOSURE servings of Nepalese curry – that he Our party continues its brief return is approached by the farm’s smartly- visit with a drive north of Pristina
8 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin @HQARRC Allied Rapid Reaction Corps towards the border town of Podujevo – to mirror the journey first taken by Lieutenant Colonel Webber, then a freshly-minted troop commander. We pull up at a shiny factory complex at Lebane. A glance at Webber’s well-thumbed photos and then back across to the current landscape in front of us, and it’s quickly apparent that the view over the rolling countryside remains relatively unchanged. The colonel points out to us the PUTTING NATO original positions of his AS-90 guns and we find the very spot where his snaps had been taken. The war- ON THE MAP scarred factory buildings have since been replaced by a thriving window All roads led to northern Germany for À LA CARTE NATO’s military map makers – as they company. “It’s fantastic being based here in convened in Sennelager for a major Webber recalls the refugee family at central Europe as it gives us the cartographic exercise organised by the camp gates and the destruction opportunity to draw more people in. the ARRC. caused by the armed conflict in This exercise is truly pan-NATO. The specialist troops from 16 different Kosovo as he reflects, “It’s really “And I believe we’re very fortunate nations came together for the week- interesting going back and seeing that the British Army is retaining long exercise, to share their technical it now. Sennelager as a training facility. It’s expertise in creating bespoke mapping “It all looks relatively calm and absolutely perfect for what we require products. everything is nice and clear. But of and we’ll be coming back!” The training was designed to develop course, all of these roads were just Sergeant Evan Durkin from the US the planning and analytical skills of covered in debris and bits of metal. Army (centre above) concluded: “Map the geospatial personnel, and help We had no idea whether there were making is just one of the many things them learn to create digital and mines and any of that kind of stuff. that go on behind the scenes. It paper maps that are useful to military “This more than anywhere during my doesn’t normally end up on the movie commanders. time was where we saw some of the screens, but we’ve all worked very atrocities that had happened first The troops were supported by a range hard and we’re very pleased with the hand. And that’s not something that of experts to assist with their map outcome.” disappears very quickly from the making, including specialists from the memory. Met Office and the cultural protection organisation ‘Blue Shield International’. “I suppose I’m still quite proud of what we did. It’s great to see such a Royal Engineer officer Lieutenant thriving community now.” Colonel Simon Finch (pictured above right) explained: “It’s fascinating really – MIXED EMOTIONS what we are doing is presenting a lot of Sitting in a leafy garden in the capital information that is extremely complex. Pristina at the end of our visit, Owen And by simplifying what is complicated, Newman adds: “It’s quite strange to it can allow commanders to make be back – in different circumstances, decisions in a quicker manner.” obviously. I was a bit apprehensive coming this morning, a bit nervous. “I wanted to come, obviously, but it’s good to be here now because it Full speed ahead is very different. We’re not carrying around our weapons, we’re not Captain Rikki Abel really puts the ‘rapid’ a race series for the different Services, sleeping with our weapons. We’re not into the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps. competing against each other on wondering about whatever’s going on The Gloucester-based race driver is professional race circuits across the in literally the next field. preparing to compete at the top level country. “And then to meet Valon in a chance of British Armed Forces racing next “After a successful season this year I’ve meeting, and the fact that he worked season after qualifying for the elite upgraded to a ‘national A’ licence, which in the Gurkha kitchens preparing the ‘A-class’ series. will enable me to race my new car. After some final testing, I’m hoping to be food as a seventeen-year-old. He During an ready for the first race next Easter.” was kicked out of his village, lined up exclusive to be shot, and he was spared. And unveiling The souped-up vehicle is a Nissan then he escaped to come back. for the 200SX S13, loaded with a powerful “You could see his delight. He was imjin of the Chevrolet corvette 6-litre v8 engine. emotional, I got quite emotional. He new livery When work is complete it should be wouldn’t let go of my hand. He just on his race capable of speeds up to 160mph. kept shaking my hand. car, Captain Abel added: “Luckily the guys in the Abel said: “And that’s a moment I don’t think I Support Battalion have been very “I’ve been will ever forget.” hospitable to allow me to work on the taking part car in their servicing bay.” in the ‘Armed For more on the ARRC’s return For more details visit Forces Race to Kosovo, view the videos at www.armedforcesracechallenge.net Challenge’ – www.arrc.nato.int or follow @RikkiAbel on Twitter
the imjin AUTUMN 2019 9 West of Berlin How an iconic symbol of the Cold War came to be in Gloucester
It’s easy to miss the unremarkable piece of concrete positioned directly opposite the entrance to the ARRC’s headquarters. Busy staff officers walk past it every day on their way into work, indicating just how it has become part of the scenery at Imjin Barracks. Only closer inspection reveals it as one of the most iconic symbols of the Cold War. That an entire section of the Berlin Wall should be in Gloucester reflects the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps’ unique German heritage. The Berlin Wall came to represent the ‘Iron Curtain’ that separated Western Europe and the Eastern Bloc after the Second World War. And ahead of the thirtieth anniversary of the fall of the Wall in November 1989, the imjin visited the German capital to learn how this particular Cold War relic came to the U.K. PAST TENSE We travelled with our very own Berliner, German army Lieutenant Colonel Florian Raebel, a staff officer serving with the ARRC. As we walk around his home city, Raebel explains: “It was a big surprise to see a piece of the Berlin Wall in south west England, and I was proud that a piece of German history had found its way to Gloucester. “But it’s good that most of the pieces of the Wall have now gone from here. It was a ‘wall of shame’ that divided the whole city, that divided families and divided a population.” The graffitied section of wall was gifted to the British military by the German government in recognition for U.K. support to West Germany during the Cold War.
10 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin COVER STORY
It was initially placed at the Joint Headquarters (JHQ) in An exhibition at the National Army Museum Rheindahlen, North Rhine- in London early next year will explore the legacy Westphalia, the same military base of the British Army’s presence in Germany from that was home to the Allied Rapid 1945 to date – and will cover the ARRC’s time in Reaction Corps until 2010. Bielefeld and Rheindahlen. When the ARRC moved from Curator Peter Johnston explained to the imjin: “The ARRC itself will feature as one of Germany to Gloucester almost a the outcomes, where the British showed they decade ago, the Wall also crossed could work really well in formal coalitions with the English Channel. multinational forces, and use that as a bedrock of collective defence. It’s obviously what NATO And it is appropriate that this is founded upon.” symbol of the Cold War should sit outside the NATO headquarters The book to accompany the exhibition is available for pre-order given the ARRC’s German history – from bit.ly/profileBFG and not least because Gloucester today is home to the largest contingent of German troops PEOPLE POWER forever, it’s not possible. And a few based in the U.K. Our own Berliner has clear years later the population that WRITING ON THE WALL childhood memories of growing up lived on the east side tore down with the divide. this wall. We’re keen to identify the precise “It’s now just a piece of history, and area of Berlin where our section of Stood in front of one well- that’s a good thing.” the Wall may have been located preserved section of the Wall in while the city was still divided. Niederkirchner Strasse, just a few hundred metres from where 21st century tourists in the German our piece would have been capital have to look hard to find located, Colonel Raebel adds: remaining traces of the Wall. Large “Every time when I visit Berlin parts were torn down in the rush and I see a piece of the Wall, to reunite the city, making our it’s a gripping moment for me. detective work all the harder. Pacing up and down the The Gloucester section is known to remaining section, he have come from the ‘British Sector’, continues: “When I was a child close to the famous Brandenburg growing up I was inside this Gate. The faded graffiti on one Wall in West Berlin. It’s a total side supports that theory. turnaround. “In the town centre you had much “As a youth of 14 or 15, I often more graffiti than in the suburbs,” had discussions with my explains Bernd von Kostka, curator teachers about the two German at Berlin’s AlliiertenMuseum (Allied states and everybody said ‘this Museum). will be forever’. And I thought ‘ To assist us, Bernd reveals a little- no’, you can’t divide a country known clue for visitors: “If you’re stood in front of the Brandenburg Gate there is today a line of little bricks in the ground, and that’s where the Wall was. “You can easily miss it, and you need a special Berliner Mauerweg It was a ‘wall (Berlin Wall Trail) map to show where the Wall was, how east and of shame’ that west was divided.” divided the On what it was like to experience life in Berlin with the Wall, he whole city. continues: “It’s difficult. Imagine that everybody who is, let’s say, 35 today never really experienced the Wall because he wasn’t born or he was too young. “So, it’s very difficult to explain to young adults how it was to live in a divided city.”
@HQARRC Allied Rapid Reaction Corps the imjin AUTUMN 2019 11 Battalion played an integral role. The Infantry platoon as a reconnaissance capability, were pushed forward into enemy occupied locations to deliver critical intelligence to their unit. The Engineer Troop were employed mainly within a Force Protection role which included the protection of Forward Operation Bases. Meanwhile the Mobility Troop were utilised throughout in a re-supply role, including the new experience of ‘air- resupply’ through underslung loads. The exercise gave the opportunity for all to undertake high-level and high-
ARRC SUPPORT BATTALION ARRC SUPPORT BATTALION quality training. The opportunity to go to America enthused all, and the training gave a sense of purpose and focus. And the experience has created better FIGHTING SNAKES prepared, better trained soldiers who are now more equipped in their role to Support Battalion trains with US allies support Headquarters ARRC.
at Fort Polk, Louisiana Captain Hollie Suff
This year the Battalion deployed Exercise Rattlesnake is held in stateside to take part in Exercise Fort Polk, Louisiana at the Joint ‘Rattlesnake’, training alongside the Readiness Training Centre (JRTC). It US 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment is notorious for being a challenging (Rakkasans). area with a mixture of environments This opportunity would be unlike including swamps and dense jungle- anything the Battalion has like forests. The combined factors of undertaken, and a vital step in tough ground, difficult environmental developing NATO interoperability and surroundings and a capable enemy set readiness. the conditions for a challenging but rewarding experience. TEAM AMERICA The rotation was sixteen days long and broken down into two phases; the offensive phase where the Brigade manoeuvred from west to east in an attempt to capture territory, followed by a defensive phase where the Brigade tried to hold and defend the ground they had occupied. All images courtesy of Soldier magazine Throughout the phases the Support
Two teams from the Support Battalion Battalion have represented the U.K. at a NATO round-up military skills competition in Germany. The annual ‘International It has been a busy period for the Mönchengladbach Military’ (IMM) ARRC Support Battalion with contest took place around Rheydt numerous exercises, adventurous Castle, close to the ARRC’s former training, sport and leadership home in Rhiendahlen. development activities. The Support Battalion won two Officers and Warrant Officers visited Back to individual stages – the basic fitness the Houses of Parliament as part of Mönchengladbach test and the forced march. the Battalion’s ongoing leadership and development training. In sport, the shooting team enjoyed a successful outing at Bisley this year, ARRC Support Battalion finishing 7th overall and 3rd in the The Support Battalion of the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) is a high Royal Logistic Corps. readiness, expeditionary, all arms unit that provides close support to Headquarters ARRC. The Battalion is a multi-capbadge unit consisting of Twelve members of the Battalion’s infanty, Royal Engineers, Pioneers, and logisticians, combined with the full surfing team have deployed on an range of supporting arms. intense week of training in Portugal. The primary role of the Battalion is to deliver force projection, protection And the annual Battalion essay and sustainment to deployed elements of HQ ARRC. In peacetime, the competition was won with a fantastic Battalion delivers force preparation for all elements of the HQ and wider entry by Lance Corporal Spence. ARRC Group, and for all NATO participating nations. WO1 (RSM) Wayne Hall
12 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin @ARRCSpBn ARRC Support Battalion 1ST (UK) SIGNAL BRIGADE Trench warfare – Major Jo Dawson discusses the role of the ‘British Battalion’ at the Battle of Jarama in 1937 Cyber Optics
What is learned about our HQ when more than 100 mobile phones are turned on – and messages and calls start firing out across the network at the same time each evening during our main annual exercise? Spanish Lessons What does this behaviour say to the adversary? What snippets can be Royal signallers communicate ideas gleaned from these conversations and pulled together into an intelligence with NATO counterparts in Madrid picture? Brigade signallers have visited Spain to to achieve military objectives, fake Signals staff have travelled to London complete a battlefield study – with the news, and the growth of internet- to examine these questions, and support of the Spanish army. connected devices. explore how best to protect the Set against the historical backdrop of Spanish Lieutenant Pedro Aguilar said: headquarters from this type of cyber the Spanish Civil War, the Brigade HQ “It has been very interesting to work threat. staff reflected on the contemporary with the British again. It’s important SAFE AND SOUND lessons for corps-level signals in the for us to share information with other urban environment. armies and have a combination of During the first day we worked on understanding the problem, examining The battle for Madrid in 1936, with points of view. how cyber agencies collaborate and its population of one million, modern “It’s been a very interesting visit and the impact out of date software can tower-blocks and utilities such as a we are looking forward to receiving have on an operational unit. telephone system, provides the perfect many more.” opportunity to consider operations in We learned that our adversaries target heavily populated built-up areas. not only our information systems, but everything from personal reputation to Speaking in the Spanish capital, vehicle fleets can also be susceptible. Captain Scott Mapplebeck from 1 Signal Our defences need to be as diverse. Brigade explained: “We wanted to use the battlefield study as an opportunity CULTURE WAR to look into ‘information manoeuvre’ During the second day we looked at and get the staff from the brigade Exercise ‘Arrcade Fusion’, focusing on thinking about information operations, what the adversary could discern and and new concepts such as ‘information exploit, and how they would likely go advantage’.” about gathering intelligence. BUENOS AMIGOS When it comes to security, technical The exercise was supported by the vulnerabilities and fixes are the Regimento de Transmisiones 22, obvious territory for ‘G6’, but the who provide communication and It’s important conversation often returned to the information systems to the Ejército de for us to share vulnerabilities introduced by human Tierra (Spanish army), including NATO’s and cultural factors. Rapid Deployable Corp in Valencia, the information Security is everyone’s business, and it ARRC’s sister corps in Spain. doesn’t matter how technically secure Presentations at the regiment’s Madrid with other the network is if we do not invest in base on information warfare generated our cultural security. discussion on the use of social media armies. Captain Robin Drysdale
Top of the shots 1st (United Kingdom) Signal Brigade A Gloucester-based lieutenant has The Signal Brigade is based at Imjin Barracks where it commands, prepares been recognised as one of the top 100 and generates forces which are held at high states of readiness, to support shots in the British Army following his current and future operations all over the world. The brigade units deliver success in the 2019 Army Operational Command Support (capabilities which assist commanders in the exercise Shooting Competition. of command), Communications Information Systems, and Real Life Support Lieutenant Alex Lim of 252 Signal (accommodation, power, medical support, feeding) to formations including: Squadron was awarded the coveted NATO’s Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC), the Joint Rapid Reaction Force, ‘Army 100’ badge at the British Army’s the Vanguard Aviation Force, the Air Assault Task Force, the Vanguard largest shooting tournament held at Field Hospital, and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). Bisley Camp in Surrey.
@comd1SigBde RSIGNALS the imjin AUTUMN 2019 13 Tracey Bowers leads the team of detectives from their office in Imjin Barracks. Below left – a fragment of uniform that may provide a vital clue as to the identity of a ‘missing soldier’. DEFENCE BUSINESS SERVICES (DBS) DEFENCE BUSINESS SERVICES On the case Meet the MOD ‘War Detectives’ piecing together fragments of evidence to honour our heroes It is an ordinary office cupboard full of “I still think there’s a satisfaction in extraordinary items – tiny fragments of burying them with dignity and respect for precious evidence stored in Tupperware what they’ve done for our country.” containers. Scraps of uniform, regimental badges and buttons, and other small SEARCH TEAM personal items, each one representing an The JCCC are called in whenever individual soldier’s life. human remains are found on a former These items should be in a museum, battlefield, perhaps uncovered by a and some of them will end up there one farmer or construction company or metal day. Discovered alongside the remains detectorists. of ‘missing’ soldiers, for now, they are The pinboard map on the wall reveals important clues as to the identity of their dozens of open cases. They are original owner. predominantly in France and Belgium on the bloody battlefields of the Western trigger a separate process involving Front, but include the odd example distant relatives who may not even be in Italy and a few more unexpected aware there was a missing soldier in their locations in the Far East. family history. Tracey explains: “We’ll get a report They may finally then be in a position to from the Commonwealth War Graves organise the re-dedication ceremonies – Commission with the location and how and provide the soldiers and airmen with much of the casualty survives, and it the burial with full military honours that will list the artefacts that are found and history has cheated them of. whether they were on, with or near the Case worker, Rosie Barron adds: “There’s casualty.” something satisfying when you are The team’s detective work then really stood at the Menin Gate (memorial to the begins, and often involves trawling missing in Belgian Flanders) and you think, through unit war diaries to help identify we’ve found him and we’ve found him. the imjin met the incredible team of the individual. If DNA is found they can “Obviously, we’ve got a long way to go, but experts, from the MOD’s Joint Casualty research their genealogy, which can it is very satisfying.” and Compassionate Centre (JCCC) based at Imjin Barracks, who dedicate months of painstaking research to identifying the soldiers from these scant remains. MOD Defence Business Services Tracey Bowers, JCCC’s Commemorations At Imjin Barracks, the DBS ‘Military Personnel’ pillar provides services Team Leader, explains: “There’s over half through the Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC) and the a million still missing from the First and MOD Medal Office, supporting military personnel and their families, Second World War with no known graves. veterans, and entitled civilian personnel. The ultimate satisfaction is being able to put a name to them, but we have to Further information on DBS services can be found on the GOV.UK be realistic and know that it’s not always website, or intranet for service personnel. going to be possible.”
14 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin @MODDBS International Families Day celebrating
Food & Live drink music
Cultural displays Children’s programme
Also featuring & Charity raffle IMJIN BARRACKS, GLOUCESTER IMJIN BARRACKS,
Event open to all personnel serving at Imjin Barracks THURSDAY 29 AUGUST 5pm – 8pm 15 What’s on EXHIBITION Very few examples of his The art of wartime posters survive persuasion today. They were rarely preserved and all surplus National Army posters were pulped. Museum, London This exhibition presents Until 24 November over 100 surviving designs he created during his employment for the Public Some of the most powerful Relations Department at war posters of the 20th the War Office from 1941 century have been brought until 1945 – and include together for the first time posters from the National for a special exhibition at Army Museum’s collection the National Army Museum alongside loans from the in London. family of Abram Games. That these posters still The show explores have the power to grab how his Jewish refugee your attention is testament heritage, experiences as a to their enduring design. soldier and the turbulent ‘The art of persuasion’ is politics of wartime Britain a major retrospective of shaped the career of a the pioneering work of man who continues to the British Army’s wartime influence design industry poster designer, Captain professionals today. Abram Games. This is an exhibition not just for those interested in Tasked with creating military propaganda, but all recruitment posters as well aficionados of twentieth- as instructional material century graphic design. for the citizen-soldiers of the Second World War, the Still need to be persuaded? works on display cover Entry is free to serving Army all subject matters, from personnel. keeping fit to how to store For more details visit www. ammunition safely. nam.ac.uk/artofpersuasion
Cheltenham Newent DAYS OUT Literature Festival Onion Fayre Various locations Newent 4 – 13 October Saturday 14 September
The world’s You’ll be crying first literature with laughter at festival the only festival celebrates its in the UK to 70th birthday celebrate the in 2019. humble onion. And this year Held in the the vibrant market town Festival Village in Montpellier of Newent, 11 miles from Imjin Gardens will welcome over 1,000 Barracks, the free-to-enter event of the very best writers, thinkers includes live music, entertainment, and performers for ten days of plus plenty of food and drink. literary revelry – with free pop-up There’s even a dog show. events galore and festivities But people really only come for Events include a series of continuing late into the night. the onions. Exhibitors travel from Gloucester celebrity talks, exhibitions, and Alongside the biggest new book across the country to compete in open days. History Festival releases, there will be food, various categories including the The festival begins with history, poetry, current affairs, ‘heaviest quality onion’. And all- Various locations Gloucester Day on Saturday 7 art, sport, faith, fashion, lifestyle, comers are welcome to enter the 7 - 22 September September, commemorating the psychology, science and business onion eating competition. If you end of the siege of the city in events on offer, as well as a fancy a go, leave your name at the 1643. Gloucester’s ancient landmarks packed family programme. main stage and turn up at 1pm. Just don’t forget the mouthwash. provide the backdrop to the city’s Download the brochure from The full line-up is available at annual festival of history and gloucesterhistoryfestival. cheltenhamfestivals.com or More details www. heritage. co.uk follow @cheltlitfest on Twitter. newentonionfayre.net
16 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin MUSIC SPORT Cheltenham Half the regency town. With the start and finish line at the Racecourse, Marathon participants get to enjoy views of the surrounding Cotswolds Sunday 29 September before heading off towards the town centre.
You can’t The half-way point is around the beat a day Montpellier District, as the route at the races then continues back through – and what town before a final lap of the better way Racecourse. to enjoy the There may not be a photo finish, adrenaline but it’s a great excuse for a selfie rush of a at least. grandstand The ARRC enters a team finish than crossing the line and details are available on yourself? ‘SharePoint’. For spectator The Cheltenham half marathon information visit www. route covers all the best bits of cheltenhamhalf.co.uk
And it’s all happening on our Witcombe doorstep. Any closer to Imjin Cider Festival Barracks and this festival would be on our parade Brockworth, Gloucester square. 23 - 25 August Last year, this popular August Bank Holiday event Is Witcombe more of a cider moved to its new home at festival or a music festival? Brockworth, Gloucester – Heineken Our local side have been drawn against four-time European Cup Does it really matter when less than 5 miles from Imjin Champions Cup winners Toulouse, as well as there are over fifty ciders Barracks. Montpellier and Connacht in Pool Gloucester Rugby on offer and major artists Better still there’s a 10% 5 of the competition. performing on stage? discount on tickets for service Various dates The fixtures were yet to be confirmed at the time of going Headline acts include dance men and women. Use the to print, but the first round of code ‘ticketsfortroops’ when European rugby returns to music pioneers Faithless matches is due to take place on Gloucester this autumn – as the (DJ Set), and British hip hop purchasing online from www. 15/16/17 November. Cherry and Whites face French witcombeciderfestival. artists Plan B and Dizzee and Irish opposition in the For latest details visit www. Rascal. co.uk Heineken Champions Cup. gloucesterrugby.co.uk
including the Band & Corps Birmingham of Drums of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines (pictured), and International the French army’s Musique Tattoo des Troupes de Marine. They will be joined by the Arena Birmingham Band of the Polish Army and 23 - 24 November the award-winning ‘K&G’ youth marching band from Experience the pageantry The Netherlands. It should of Britain’s biggest indoor be quite a spectacle. ‘tattoo’, featuring over 1,200 If nothing else go for the performers – and the most British Flyball Dog Display. kilted pipers you’re likely to see this side of the border. Tickets can be booked The display features massed via the Box Office on international bands from 0844 3388222 or via many NATO countries, bhamtattoo.com
@HQARRC Allied Rapid Reaction Corps the imjin AUTUMN 2019 17 Home from home The ARRC International Club (AIC) is an inclusive club set up for the partners of everybody posted to – or attached to – NATO’s Allied Join the Rapid Reaction Corps at Imjin Barracks (Headquarters ARRC, 1st (United Kingdom) Signal Brigade and the ARRC Support Battalion). Club The AIC arranges events to bring together all nationalities represented Make a date to at the ARRC. These include monthly meet over lunch – lunches and coffee mornings, hosted by different nations, which give a real or just a cup of tea taste of each other’s customs, culture The ARRC International Club opens and cuisine! They are a wonderful its doors every month to provide the opportunity to meet new people and
ARRC INTERNATIONAL CLUB opportunity to meet up while enjoying learn more about the different nations a different taste of the world. that make up the Imjin community. The Club is open to all spouses Throughout the year the AIC organises and partners of staff posted to trips to places like Blenheim Palace, Imjin Barracks, and the popular ‘AIC’ cost is £13.50 per person and includes the Houses of Parliament and Ascot luncheons and coffee mornings are a welcome drink, two course meal with Races, as well as various other events held throughout the year – each beverage, and coffee. Proceeds go and activities, ranging from tennis hosted by a different country on a towards the AIC fund, which is used for coaching to family bingo. There is also rotational basis. AIC events and community giving. a walking club that meets regularly to This past season, hosts have included BUON APPETITO! explore the local countryside. the United Kingdom, Romania, Canada, The AIC luncheons and coffee mornings If you would like to get regular Spain, Denmark, Poland, Turkey, provide an informal opportunity for updates about future AIC events, then Germany, Italy, Greece, and the United people to gather, develop friendships, please e-mail me, the AIC Secretary States. and learn something about a member ( ), Each host country’s unique personal [email protected] nation. Here are some quotes from our and also join our Facebook group touches bring their country to life for hosts and guests: by searching for ‘The AIC (ARRC us. For example, our Romanian hosts “…these events add a tremendous International Club)’. shared a photo display created by one amount of value to our experience of their members. It was a special way We look forward to seeing you soon! in the UK…It was so pleasing to see to get to know their country. Lisa Hackstein AIC Secretary that so many people made the effort to come and enjoy with us. We also want to thank all the mess staff for their support to make this lovely event happen.” Zümrüt Türen (Turkey) “Hosting a lunch is a team effort, and the general outcome of the event reflects this team spirit very much. [Also,] I would like to stress the importance of luncheon/coffee mornings Club update as truly team building events for our international community. There is so Where has the time gone? It’s hard to much to share and to learn during these believe I have been Chair of the AIC for BON APPÉTIT! gatherings, along with their ‘natural’ 3 years - and what a 3 years it’s been! Coffee mornings are held at the social follow ups (walks, book clubs, I’ve learnt so much, made true friends, Innsworth Community Centre, etc.).” Laura Boni (Italy) and eaten my way around the world a usually on a Tuesday from 10 am – few times… “The AIC lunches are a wonderful way to midday. Attendance costs only £1 meet wives from other countries and to At its heart, the AIC is all about per person and includes coffee, tea, learn about each other’s cultures. We all bringing people together, through and homemade baked goods in the start off nervous to sit with each other the amazing International lunches tradition of the hosting country. but leave as friends. They help bring our and coffee mornings, the local walks, Luncheons are held at the Imjin communities together.” Danielle Hilton outings and more. The Club is for every Officers’ Mess, also usually on a (Canada) spouse here, and all nationalities. It Tuesday from 11.20 am – 2 pm. The Lindsay Hamilton really can make a difference in the first weeks and months when you’ve just arrived and don’t know anyone; Future Events especially for those coming from overseas. MONTHLY LUNCHES COFFEE MORNINGS My life is richer for having been part Held in the Officers’ Mess Coffee Mornings take of the AIC community, and I’d like •• September 2019 – UK place every month in the to take this opportunity to thank •• October 2019 – Innsworth Community the committee for all their help and Netherlands Centre, often on the first support over the last 3 years. Lucy •• November 2019 – USA Tuesday of the month. Smyth-Osbourne takes over as Chair in September, and I know, under her Please look out for the dates for the lunches and guidance, the AIC will continue to go coffee mornings on the AIC Facebook page. from strength to strength. Pictured – The wild boar statue in the Officers’ Mess gets dressed for the occasion Tracey Radford AIC Chair
18 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin Oil be back – A portrait of author Laurie Lee in The Woolpack Inn in Slad (Credit Nick Turner)
Cider with mosey
Walk in the footsteps of Laurie Lee, one of Britain’s Our latest walk proved to be a great success best-loved authors, on this picturesque section of the – as we enjoyed perfect sunny weather, charming paths, amazing views, and, of Cotswold Way footpath – just 15 miles from Imjin Barracks. course, great company. The route is about Lee is best known for his novel ‘Cider with Rosie’, an account of his 5 miles long and is quite hilly! It seemed as childhood in the Slad Valley, set during the period soon after the First though we were accompanied throughout by horses, cows, sheep, and birdsong. In such World War. On this walk you can enjoy the same unspoilt views that surroundings, you can truly relax. There was inspired his writing, and even toast his memory with a glass of cider at a lot of laughter – and many exclamations of his favourite village pub. Hanna Dering reports. ‘wow’ as we came to the next beautiful view.
The walk starts and finishes at The Woolpack Inn Longridge (Postcode GL6 7QA). Before leaving the village, notice PAINSWICK Village B4070 Rose Cottage, where Laurie Lee lived with his wife
Slad Road and daughter. Continue up Steanbridge Lane to the War Memorial. Take the footpath through Frith Wood. Longridge Wood
Bulls At Bulls Cross, opposite the sign for Painswick, Cross follow the steep path down to Slad Brook, before Down Hill climbing up the steep hill opposite. Follow the track until it reaches the road to Down Farm. Continue down the winding lane to the hamlet of Elcombe.
At enjoy the magnificent views Redding Swift’s Hill Wood towards Stroud and beyond. Descend the Slad Village hill and turn left down Knap Lane, over the cattle-grid. Pass by the pretty gables of The START / FINISH Woolpack Knap House as you follow the road back Inn round to Slad village.
Now it’s time for that drink! After 2-and- a-half hours we completed our walk, B4070 Swift’s Hill N and happily returned to The Woolpack Slad Road Inn for lunch. The Woolpack is a local treasure, steeped in history and Roads character. Delicious and good-sized STROUD Path dishes, very nice local beer and a great 1 km Slad Brook atmosphere will make you want to visit this place again.
@HQARRC Allied Rapid Reaction Corps the imjin AUTUMN 2019 19 Lord Glitters (L, grey horse) wins The Queen Anne Stakes on day one of Royal Ascot (Photo: Ascot Racecourse) © National Army Museum Why Imjin? For me, having a passion for Korean culture and civilisation, it was a surprise to find out that the barracks, where my husband would work for 3 years, is called ‘Imjin’. In my bag of knowledge, Imjin was the Taking the rains name of a Korean river, witness to many Korean battles against the Japanese and the Chinese. So, why is the barracks
ARRC INTERNATIONAL CLUB Outing to Royal Ascot is highlight (and this magazine) called Imjin? of social season I discovered the answer on my first visit to the ‘Soldiers of Gloucestershire’ The Officers’ Mess car park has surely Then, the rain hit with a vengeance Museum – where I learned about the role never seen such an array of eye- and it was an afternoon of flying played by the Gloucestershire Regiment catching headwear. hooves, whizzing colours, rain-soaked during the Korean War (1950-1953). Brightly coloured feathers, fascinators hair, some wins, some losses and At the end of the Second Wold War, and wide-brimmed hats jostled for chatty, Prosecco-filled moments. Korea was split, along the 38th Parallel, position – as 68 members of the Before we knew it, the day was over. into North Korea under Soviet influence, AIC prepared to join The Queen Many of us were soaked to the bone and South Korea under American influence. On 25 June 1950, the and thousands of racegoers on the and it was time for the drive home. Communist North Koreans, supported by opening day of Royal Ascot. I think I can speak for everyone the Chinese army, invaded its southern For some it was a new experience, when I say it was a wonderful day, an neighbour without warning, but the for others it was the second or third extraordinary British experience and United Nations called upon its members to defend the South. time, so we listened to the veterans an opportunity to make new friends and tried to glean the best tips and from different countries. Definitely a SYMBOL worthwhile day of fun had by all. tricks for a successful adventure while In April 1951, the British 29th Infantry en route to the famous Berkshire P.S. A huge ‘thank you’ to Elisabetta Brigade, including the Gloucestershire racecourse. Verardi, without whose help we would Regiment, was holding a wide defensive position behind the Imjin River, where With picnic hampers in hand, we aced not have managed to organise this so successfully. the attackers could advance to Seoul. the security lines, teetered in our After several Chinese attacks, the ‘The heels across soft lawns and settled Danielle Hilton Glosters’ retreated to Hill 235, where, ourselves at a multitude of tables although short of ammunition and water, with a great view of the racecourse. they heroically defended enemy attacks. England’s unpredictable weather On 25 April, the Glosters were sure showed its hand this day and we surrounded, yet although defeated their spread out our picnics while juggling resistance had given the UN forces the opportunity to re-group and block the umbrellas through the stop-start advance of Chinese army to Seoul. drizzle. As a recognition of their bravery, the HOME TURF South Korean government re-named Hill 235 as ‘Gloster Hill’, and as a symbol And then as if by divine providence, of remembrance our barracks here in the drizzle stopped just long enough Gloucester was also called ‘Imjin’. for the Royal Procession, and we were Today the name ‘Imjin’ serves as a fortunate enough to be in the fleeting warning to those who wish to attack presence of HRH The Queen, Dutch our freedom and human rights, and that King Willem-Alexander and Queen there will always be heroes who will say: Maxima, as well as the Duke and “This is not going on!” Duchess of Cambridge. Elena Cracea
Pretty penny – AIC club members raise CHARITY UPDATE cash for Cancer Research UK Money raised at AIC events, such as the This year, for the third time, the AIC proudly international lunches and coffee mornings, took part in the Pretty Muddy Race in means we are in the fortunate position Cheltenham. of being able to make donations to local The race is organised by Cancer Research UK, charities. and it was emotional to see a pink wave of This year we’re delighted to support two: women from different nations united, joyful and Young Gloucestershire helps young fierce in the battle against cancer. unemployed people find work, access It’s an unmissable opportunity to do the ‘dirty training and return to education, and job’, to give our support to the many people Allsorts supports children with additional who are fighting and their families who support needs and their families. them in this tough challenge. Every step Martine Pyle counts because this is a competition where everyone wins, except cancer.
Elisabetta Verardi
For more info visit raceforlife.org
20 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin @HQARRC Allied Rapid Reaction Corps TRAVEL 21
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E On the day our group visited Aldbourne, we were privileged to tour a special archaeological dig on the Farm Lane Playing Fields. In one the team pitch, corner of a football of the foundations had uncovered the Easy Company sergeants’ mess were shown some of their hut. We incredible finds, including an original parachute handle. reserve finished our day with a meal and We drink at The Blue Boar pub which acted as the 101st Officers’ Mess. The friendly pub is a mini museum in its own right. sure those Screaming Eagles And I’m of the traditional fish n’ would approve Airbourne! today. chips it serves With thanks to Aldbourne Heritage Centre aldbourneheritage.org.uk
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្ The church and some of those buried there are older than America itself. TIME TEAM Our group were then treated to a walking tour of the village bespoke itself. Highlights include the village Post Office where 1st Lieutenants Dick were billeted, Winter and Harry Welsh and the Easy Company Command Post in the pub opposite. be will also Science fiction fans amused to learn that classic episodes of Doctor Who were filmed here in the 1970s, which explains the Dalek guarding ‘The Crown’ today. church contains two old St Michael’s fire pumps and examples of the bells just 50 cast in the historic foundry metres down the road. Our guide also took great pleasure in pointing out to our U.S. colleague that ‘the church and some of those buried there are older than America itself’. Major Paul Turner Take it Easy in historic Aldbourne – where the it Easy in historic Aldbourne Take set up camp in the months original ‘Band of Brothers’ D-Day before
EASY GOING EASY south of drive an hour’s Just over a day trip to this most Gloucester, picturesque village on the northern edge of Salisbury Plain is a rewarding day out. Aldbourne Heritage Centre (postcode SN8 2DU) is a good place and open at weekends, to start. It’s a small donation) group visits can (for during the week with the be booked curator John Dymond to include a walking tour of the village. While small, the centre has displays of 3,000-year in the village’s events key Age to history – from the early Bronze its centuries-old tradition of casting church bells.
There’s no greater place to lose some no greater There’s time than in a timeless English country village. And charming, picture-perfect Aldbourne in Wiltshire has remained centuries. largely unchanged for the Band of Brothers would Certainly, recognise the village today. U.S. War, During the Second World Army paratroopers of ‘Easy Company’, 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Regiment – the famed Infantry Band of Brothers – were based at Aldbourne from late 1943 to mid-1944, D-Day. in preparation for Billeted on the village green and even in villagers’ homes, the American the place as troops largely took over setting trained in England before they off to fight in north-west Europe. the ‘Screaming Eagle’ flags Today of the 101st Airborne Division fly throughout Aldbourne – hanging incongruously from its pubs and post office in honour of the Allied soldiers who were briefly stationed there. 101st place 101st ALL ABOUT THE BASE (extension 4564 ) For moredetailscall01452362564 group pagesImjinstationcommunity and thesewillbeadvertised onthe Facebook Other events areorganisedduring theweek, 9.30 -11am Friday 6 -8pm Thursday 9.30 -10.30am Wednesday Mornings Tuesday 5.50 -8.45pm 11am 9.30 - Monday COMMUNITY CENTRE INNSWORTH STATION What’s on [email protected] 01452 362550(extension4550),e-mail and tobook,contactWelfare Reception For furtherinformation aboutthesefacilities valid drivinglicence. the booking,beover 25years oldandholda of 1-14days.Theminibusdriver mustmake We alsohave aminibusavailable for periods MINIBUS home oranyothervenue. parties intheCommunityCentre,at Two bouncycastlesareavailable for useat BOUNCY CASTLES See thepaneloppositefor furtherdetails. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS TICKETS availability. RequestsviatheWelfare Officer. other peoplefor family visitors,dependingon see theirchildren,butmayalsobebooked by are mainlyfor separated/divorced parentsto and canaccommodateupto6people.They houses arefully-furnishedwith3-bedrooms, houses’ ontheInnsworthestate.Both The Welfare Officemaintainstwo‘contact CONTACT HOUSES other events. available tobebooked for family partiesand during daytimesandevenings. TheCentreis coffee mornings,Beavers &Scouts,etc.) a largehall,usedprimarilybygroups(for Located nexttotheWelfare Office,thisis COMMUNITY CENTRE for private useviatheWelfare Reception. available –manyofwhichcanalsobebooked We alsohave anumberofwelfare facilities based atAshchurch. Cheltenham, and721EOD&SearchSquadron Signal Brigade,aswelltoJSSU&JCU (ARRC), ARRCSupportBattalion,and1st(UK) families fromtheAlliedRapidReactionCorps for servicepersonnel,civilservants, and The Welfare Team provides asupportservice WELFARE OFFICE INNSWORTH STATION What’s In WELFARE NEWS 22 Innsworth StationCommunityCentre The Welfare Officeisbasednextto AUTUMN 2019
Coffee Morning Cubs 07801 653862) Ellie Stafford Yoga (Contact (monthly) AIC Coffee Morning Beavers &Scouts Parents &Tots
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www.chepstowhive.blogspot.com information. Itcanbeaccessed at important officialServicecommunity the mostup-to-datenews,events and electronic noticeboard,andincludes The HIVEBLOGisaninternet-based community servingatImjinBarracks. from allmembersofthewiderservice community andwelcomesenquiries the chainofcommandtoService provides information onbehalfof The HIVEInformation Service INNSWORTH HIVE CHEPSTOW AND • • • • • Corps onissuessuchas: to HeadquartersAlliedRapidReaction both before, andduring,your posting available tohelpyou andyour family The InternationalLiaisonOfficeris Nation personnel… Calling allParticipating of 50ridersfor thecharityhewas He rodefor MacMillanCancerandout Sunday morning. completed the100kmrideat5amon 10.30pm ontheSaturdaynight,Mike the ImperialWar Museum.Startingat 25-kilometre legs,withrestpointsat London. Theroutehasfour different the LeeValley Velo ParkinEast London, startingandfinishingat This isa100-kilometreroutearound Nightrider 2019’bike ride. departing, hetookpartinthe‘London At afinalcharityfund-raiserbefore future, hewillbemissed. Imjin Barracks.We wishhimwellfor the personnel andtheirfamilies hereat to Major, after five years ofsupporting Team, onmuch-deserved promotion Mike ThomasMBEleaves the Welfare The StationWelfare OfficerCaptain Up andGo • • • • • vehicles) information onimporting/exporting Vehicle registration(including Opening aUKbankaccount appeals process) access toschoolplacesandthe local nurseries,schoolsandcolleges, Education (includinginformation on providers (e.g.TV&internet,etc) Utilities andlocalservice rules andregulations) Housing (includingSFA allocation, Friday 8.30am-4pm Monday-Thursday 8.30am-4.30pm, HIVE OpeningHours www.army.mod.uk/hives Website [email protected] E-mail 01291 645354 Telephone HIVE Information SupportOfficer Sarah Stokes The Welfare Team and supportedhim.Well done,Mike! like tothankallthosewhosponsored top sponsor, raising£628.33.Hewould community ARRC’s websitewww.arrc.nato.int/ in the‘community’sectionofthe. range ofissuescanalsobefound Further information onawide Email: [email protected] Tel: 01452718000 HQ ARRC International LiaisonOfficer Fiona Traina contact: For adviceonanyoftheabove, please • • dependants) Service (medicalanddentalcarefor Access totheNationalHealth Imjin Station Community Mike Thomasisoff Welfare Officer On Yer Bike – 5. Take Credit – You should regularly get a copy of your credit file and check it for entries you don’t recognise. Callcredit, Fakes news Equifax and Experian can all provide your credit file. Protect yourself from 6. Let Rip – Destroy and preferably shred scams or fraud with receipts with your card details on and post with your name and address on. Identity this 10-point plan fraudsters don’t need much information in order to be able to clone your identity. There are many words used to describe 7. It’s a steal – If you receive bills, invoices or fraud: Scam, con, swindle, extortion, sham, receipts for things that you haven’t bought, double-cross, hoax, cheat, ploy, ruse, or financial institutions you don’t normally hoodwink, confidence trick. Get Fresh deal with or contact you about outstanding Find out what your local community And although fraud and cybercrime comes debts, take action. Your identity may have has to offer at the Imjin Station in many forms, there are some simple steps been stolen. you can take to protect yourself. Freshers’ Fair – and discover the 8. Big Deal – Be extremely wary of post, societies, clubs and sports available 1. Name Game – Do not give any personal phone calls or emails offering you business to you here in the Gloucester area. information (name, address, bank details, deals out of the blue. If an offer seems e-mail or phone number) to organisations or too good to be true, it probably is. Always The event will be held in the Station people before verifying their credentials. question it. Officers’ Mess on Wednesday 4 2. Easy PC – Make sure your computer has 9. False Friends - If you have been a victim September, from 10am - 2pm. up-to-date anti-virus software and a firewall of fraud, be aware of fraud recovery fraud. It’s an opportunity to meet installed. Ensure your browser is set to the This is when fraudsters pretend to be a representatives from local councils, highest level of security and monitoring lawyer or a law enforcement officer and tell to prevent malware issues and computer schools, community police, colleges, you they can help you recover the money crimes. you’ve already lost. and vets, as well as clubs and 3. Phish Farm – Many frauds start with societies, including the ARRC 10. Take Advice – If you need advice a phishing e-mail. Remember that banks about fraud or cyber crime visit the International Club. and financial institutions will not send you Gloucestershire Constabulary website Everyone is welcome to come along, an e-mail asking you to click on a link and www.gloucestershirepolice.uk or contact whether you’ve just arrived at confirm your bank details. Do not trust such ‘Action Fraud’ on www.actionfraud.police. Gloucester or you’ve been posted messages, even if they look genuine. uk Telephone 0300 123 2040. here for a while. 4. Card Trick – Sign-up to ‘Verified by Visa’ or ‘MasterCard Secure Code’ whenever you For more details check the Welfare are given the option while shopping online. Office Facebook group Innsworth This adds an additional layer of security to Station Community online transactions with signed-up retailers.
available from Discounted tickets for local attractions the Welfare Office REALLY WILD The Welfare Office is pleased to announce a new attraction has been added to their discounted NEW tickets scheme – The All Things All Things Wild Bristol Aquarium Bristol Zoo Wild Nature Centre, near Evesham near Evesham, WR11 7QZ Bristol, BT1 5TT Clifton, BS8 3HA in Worcestershire. www.allthingswild.co.uk www.bristolaquarium.co.uk www.bristolzoo.org.uk All Things Wild opened in March 2012 with the aim of providing an all-weather, year-round family attraction and allow people of all ages to enjoy the amazing things that nature can bring.
From running bug hunting and pond Cattle Country Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm WWT Slimbridge dipping sessions in a wild meadow, Adventure Park Wraxall, Bristol, BS48 1PG Slimbridge, GL2 7BT to getting up close to some of our Berkeley, GL13 9EW www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk wwt.wwt.org.uk/wetlands- amazing animals, the centre offers www.cattlecountry.co.uk centres/slimbridge a diverse range of activities. Innsworth Station Welfare Office has discounted tickets for the above local With animals, dinosaurs, a fantastic attractions, at £10 family ticket (£12 for All Things Wild) and £2.50 individual. soft play barn and indoor and Tickets are booked and paid for in advance, through the Welfare Office. outdoor play areas throughout, TICKETS CANNOT BE RESERVED OR BOOKED OVER THE TELEPHONE. there’s fun for all the family, all year Booked tickets are collected from the Welfare Office (Monday - Friday), or Station round, whatever the weather. Guardroom (weekends and Stand Downs), on the morning of your visit, and Discounted tickets for All Things returned to the Guardroom that evening. Wild are available for £12 for a Check the attraction website for their latest events, as well as for any family of four. additional event costs and other information.
For further information contact Welfare Office 01452 362550 (extension 4550) or [email protected]
the imjin AUTUMN 2019 23 WELFARE – HOUSING
Patch Watch A special ‘WhatsApp’ group called Patch Watch has been launched for personnel and families living in the Churchdown and Innsworth SFA areas – to help warn of any suspicious activity or persons in the area.
The Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) from the ARRC The Best Policy Support Battalion runs the WhatsApp group. Ensure you’re insured in your Service If you wish to be added, send Family Accommodation a text message to the RSM on 07824 509492. You will need We all know that we should have insurance to cover our home contents and to have the ‘WhatsApp’ app on personal possessions. But are you aware that you also need specialist cover for your mobile. you and your family while living in Service Family Accommodation (SFA)? Service personnel are required to have specific insurance for ‘SFA/Licence to Occupy’ liability, which needs to cover: Royal Mail •• potential liability up to a maximum of £20,000, to cover any damages to the SFA Keepsafe caused by themselves or their family •• their personal property and that of any spouse/Civil partner and child/children •• their liability to third parties in respect to injury to them and damage to their property. All Service personnel living in SFA are strongly advised to have insurance for themselves and their families, for ‘SFA/Licence to Occupy’ liability, and for their home contents and personal possessions. A standard home insurance policy may not cover all of this, and a specialist policy may be required.
The Services Insurance & Investment Advisory Panel (SIIAP) can help and assist with finding companies that Are you concerned about provide insurance for Service personnel that includes post/mail piling up in your ‘SFA/Licence to Occupy’ cover. Information and details home, whilst you are away on can be found at their website www.siiap.org holiday, or other long period? If so, the Royal Mail has a service that holds onto your SFA occupants meeting post/mail for the period you are away. Regular SFA occupants’ meetings are held to bring up various issues, ranging from security matters, maintenance problems, street lighting, the The Service is called cleanliness of houses at move-in, to hedge/grass cutting around ‘Keepsafe’. You can ask for the estate. your post to be kept from 17 days to 66 days, at a Please do come along to these meetings to raise your concerns, problems relevant cost. You can apply and issues – both positive and negative – about your SFA or the SFA areas for the service online, by post, – with representatives from the Station, DIO, Amey, and the local police. or by phone. Meetings are advertised on the Welfare Facebook site – and via Full details are on the posters in unit departments website: If you cannot attend but have an issue that you wish brought up, please www.royalmail.com/ e-mail Sue Miles (Secretary) at [email protected] personal/receiving-msil/ If you have a housing issue between meetings, contact the Housing keepsafe Officer Paul Wheable at the Welfare Office on 01452 362554 (extension 4554), or via e-mail [email protected]
24 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin Of course, nobody ever wants to leave Gloucestershire, but all good things must eventually come to an end – and On the when the time comes to be posted from the area, be sure to follow our simple checklist below.
De-register from doctors / dentists / move? hospitals Ensure that you and your family tell your doctors’ surgery, dental practice, and (if receiving hospital treatment) hospital department, that you are moving and when. They can then de-register your family from the surgery, practice and department. This will ensure that there are places there for new families when they arrive.
Your child / children’s school You must inform your child/children’s school that they will be leaving the school, as you are moving from the area. It is important to do this, so that the school doesn’t report your child as truant when they don’t attend, and so they know the availability of future places.
Re-direct your mail when you leave the area It’s also important to have your mail re-directed – so that you won’t miss any important post, but more importantly to prevent your personal details being stolen and used by someone fraudulently. Royal Mail has a re-direct service, and post can be directed to any UK or overseas address, for a required period and for all family members, at a small cost. Check the Royal Mail website for more information www. royalmail.com/personal/receiving-mail/redirection
And before you leave, don’t miss out on visiting Gloucester’s ‘Top Ten’ best attractions*
1. Gloucester 7. Soldiers of Cathedral Gloucestershire 2. Jet Age Museum Museum 3. Gloucester Docks 8. Three Choirs Vineyard 4. Kingsholm Stadium 9. National Waterways 5. Gloucester Quays Museum shopping 10. Prinknash Bird and 6. Gloucester and Deer Park Sharpness Canal *according to tripadvisor.co.uk
Imjin Station Community the imjin AUTUMN 2019 25 WELFARE – HEALTH
Extended visiting hours at our local hospitals NHS Gloucestershire Hospitals are operating new extended visiting hours – from 9am to 9pm every day. The move is being timed to coincide with ‘NHS 70’ celebrations – and is designed to allow families easier access to medical staff.
Health services in Gloucestershire When your doctor’s surgery is NHS 111 Service Gloucestershire Out of closed, there are other ways The NHS 111 Service is available 24 Hours Service of getting medical advice and hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s Doctors’ Surgeries are closed. The treatment. the NHS non-emergency number, Service is contacted by calling 111. There are the Advice ASAP, calls to 111 are free from landlines The Service operates: Mon-Fri NHS 111 and Gloucestershire and mobile phones. 1830hrs-0800hrs, Sat, Sun & Bank Out of Hours services. You should call 111 if : Holidays – 24hours. If you are unsure of the health •• You need medical help fast, but NB: The Out of Hours Service service you need for advice and/ it’s not a 999 life-threatening is only for urgent out of hours or treatment, the information emergency medical matters. & details of the services can •• You don’t know who to call for be found at the Advice ASAP It is important to remember medical help website and the NHS 111 Service. that Hospital Emergency •• You don’t think it can wait for an departments are there for Advice ASAP appointment with your doctor, or serious injuries and (App, Search, Ask, you don’t have a doctor. emergencies. Pharmacy) Advice ASAP is available at www.asapglos.nhs.uk and Registering with a doctor’s surgery also as an app. On the website, When you move into the area, you must register your spouse and family you can search and find details members with the nearest doctors’ surgery to your SFA. A list of surgeries nearest to the SFA area is noted in the SFA Area Information Booklet, for local health services – ie a included in the Welcome Pack. pharmacy, and to search by To register with a surgery, telephone or visit the surgery, medical condition. and the reception staff will explain and assist with the registering process. Further information is available on the surgery’s website. If you are having problems with registering with a surgery, contact/visit the HWLO at Innsworth Station Welfare Office, (tel no 01452 362553), for assistance.
26 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin Imjin Station Community Fighting fit SPORTS SHORTS Kung Fu Bruce Lee wannabes will want to sign up for this unique Kung Fu class – now celebrating two years at Imjin Barracks. Royal Air Force Martial Arts instructor Chris Hull has been teaching the Chinese martial art of Wing Chun Kuen (literally ‘Singing Spring Fist’) at Gloucester since 2017. The Kung fu style is evolved from medieval Chinese battlefield and insurgency warfare. It favours speed, directness, efficiency and reaction over brute strength or complex movements; all vital in self-protection. Using fists, hands, elbows, knees and feet, or anything else that might do the job, the aim is always to end a confrontation as quickly as possible, and then escape to safety. Wing Chun is not competitive, and certainly not pretty, but it is ideal when you need it most. WAX ON, WAX OFF Chris Hull provides FREE tuition as part of the RAF Wing Chun Kuen school, with the IMJIN BARRACKS GYMNASIUM charitable aim of enhancing the efficiency of UK Armed Forces. That is except, of course, for Free gym membership available – and we’re insurance fees (£5.00) and a t-shirt for uniform (and an optional hoodie). A small price to pay open 24/7 for such valuable skills! Classes meet in the Imjin gym on Tuesday Our gym and recreational centre at Imjin Fitness nights from 5.30 - 7pm. Barracks are open to all MOD staff and military spouses/partners based here. We The PTIs are on hand during working hours Perhaps Wing Chun Kuen is what you have offer a wide range of facilities including to provide advice on equipment use for the: been looking for, but you simply didn’t know it was here on your doorstep? squash and tennis courts, as well as group •• Cardio area, including running, rowing, fitness classes. cycling and other cross-fit machines Now that really does sound like a path to true happiness. If you need some help or motivation, there are •• Multi gym equipment for strength and three physical training instructors (PTIs). And conditioning while their main focus is delivering fitness programs to ensure troops are operationally •• Free weights areas fit, they can also design tailored training programs and provide guidance on healthy Sports living or recovering from injury. Facilities and some sports equipment can be Civilian personnel need to complete a gym booked through the duty PTI: induction. Annual insurance (currently £30) •• Sports hall – football, basketball, must also be purchased through the ARRC badminton or volleyball Support Battalion. •• Squash •• Tennis Opening Times Classes Women’s rugby The gym is manned Monday to Thursday A range of fitness classes are organised to Women’s rugby is one of the fastest-growing from 7am - 10pm, and Friday 7am - 2pm. cater for military and civilians, including: sports in the UK. Outside of these hours the gym can be •• Lunchtime circuits on Mondays and And now future players are being encouraged accessed 24/7 by signing out a swipe Thursdays to take up the sport by one of our local stars key from the guardroom. of the game. •• Lunchtime yoga on Wednesdays Lance Corporal Anabelle Whitecross plays for Gloucester-Hartpury WRFC (and featured on the cover of the last edition of the imjin). She is welcoming anybody interested in learning This Mum Runs about the sport to contact her, regardless of previous experience. A unique running club for military mums has GREAT ESCAPE launched in Gloucester, bringing a national For more information contact Rosalind Oram, community leader for initiative to our local community. Anabelle on extension 6167 or e-mail Military Mums, explained: “We have a vision [email protected] ‘This Mum Runs’ is a group of over 50,000 to get as many women as we can active in women nationwide whose vision is to help a fun community and to make friends while mums become happier and healthier through getting some much-needed time just for running. themselves.” The scheme launched locally as ‘This Mum Rosalind is supported by specially-trained Calling all sports Runs Military Mums’ with free weekly runs volunteers dubbed ‘Run Angels’ who are a held in the Gloucester area. friendly face to welcome members, warm teams! The club aims to help mums who have everyone up, keep people safe and make We want to feature your club on these pages of partners in the military to carve out some sure no one gets left behind. the imjin magazine. time, get some headspace and meet new Runs are held every Sunday at 8am, and friends – with less emphasis on performance women interested finding out more can Send your news and photos to our sports desk or times and more emphasis on fun and visit the dedicated Facebook group page via [email protected] running at the speed of chat. thismumrunsmilitarymums
the imjin AUTUMN 2019 27 IF YOU’RE WORRIED ABOUT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH, WE’RE HERE TO HELP.
If you’re experiencing any of the following, talk to us:
Feeling cut off from life Losing your temper more often Finding it hard to sleep Feeling on edge and easily irritable Having nightmares or fl ashbacks
Our 24-hour mental health helpline provides confi dential advice – you can contact us anytime, day or night, for help. Family members can also call the helpline.
If you’re serving, call 0800 323 4444 If you’re a veteran, call 0800 138 1619
combatstress.org.uk
Combat Stress, Company Registered in England & Wales No 256353. Charity Registration No 206002 (SC038828 in Scotland).
28 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin 18JH154 Cross Examine Padre Richard Smith on the humble war relic linked with Imjin Gloucester Cathedral holds many In captivity he shared the hardships precious artefacts, but the item which of his men and ministered to them as speaks most to me is one of the allowed. On Christmas Day 1951 within smallest in its extensive collection. Camp No 2 on the Yalu river, Padre The Carne Cross was carved by Sam was permitted to lead a small IF YOU’RE WORRIED ABOUT Holy Communion service for Lieutenant Colonel James Carne, the Commander of 1st Battalion, The his men, Colonel Carne Gloucester Regiment while he was a then produced a small prisoner of war in Korea. ‘The Glosters’ cross which had been (as his unit was known) had fought carving by hand for at the now famous battle of the Imjin recent months ‘using two YOUR MENTAL HEALTH, River in late April 1951, but after being large nails and a primitive overwhelmed by the enemy, those hammer’. It stood as a remaining were taken into captivity for centrepiece of their worship two and half years. and a recognition of their hope and defiance. The Glosters’ chaplain was Padre Sam Davies; as the battle raged he The Carne Cross and a had been moving between positions, Book of Remembrance for WE’RE HERE TO HELP. all those who died at Imjin ministering to the wounded and carrying vital medical supplies. When can be seen within the the battle was lost, and the order Cathedral, the staff will came to retreat, the padre stayed with be happy to show you If you’re experiencing any of the following, talk to us: the wounded to continue his ministry, where it can be found. knowing that he would be captured. Padre Richard Feeling cut off from life Places of Worship around Gloucester Losing your temper more often CHRISTIANITY Church of England St Johns Avenue, Churchdown St Johns Sunday Traditional style, with Finding it hard to sleep (at crossroads with Hare and Hounds) (Reverend Jacqui Hyde) 10am children’s work alongside www.stjohnschurchdown.co.uk St Andrews Modern style, with children’s Station Road, Churchdown Feeling on edge and easily irritable (Reverend Jonathan Sunday 10.30am work alongside new.standrewschurchdown.org.uk Perkin) Having nightmares or fl ashbacks Roman Catholic Our Ladys Mass, with children’s work 66 Cheltenham Road East, Churchdown Sunday 10.30am (Father Paul Brandon) alongside www.ourladyschurchdown.org.uk Methodist Our 24-hour mental health helpline provides confi dential Churchdown Rotation of Holy Communion, Chapel Hay Lane, Churchdown, GL3 2ET Methodist Sunday 10.30am All age worship, and normal www.churchdownmethodistchurch.org.uk advice – you can contact us anytime, day or night, for help. (Reverend Graham Miles) Sunday Worship Family members can also call the helpline. Baptist Kendal Road Baptist All age service, with Kendal Road, Longlevens, GL2 0NB Sunday 10.30am (Pastor – Steve Ayers) children’s work alongside krbc.org.uk
JEWISH If you’re serving, call 0800 323 4444 Gloucester Liberal Jewish Community www.gljc.org.uk If you’re a veteran, call 0800 138 1619 (Rabbi Anna Gerrard) MUSLIM 44-46 Ryecroft Street, Gloucester, GL1 4LY Masjid e Noor www.majidenoor.org.uk Khoja Shi’s Muslim Wainsbridge, 69 Bristol Road, Quedgely, GL2 Community 4NE
HINDUISM Gloucester Pillaiyar 7 days a week Babminton Road, Matson, GL4 6AY Temple 9am - midday, 6 - 9 pm www.gloucesterpillaiyartemple.org
GURKHA combatstress.org.uk Temple As required Imjin Barracks Combat Stress, Company Registered in England & Wales No 256353. Charity Registration No 206002 (SC038828 in Scotland).
ARRC Padre the imjin AUTUMN 2019 29 18JH154 FINAL WORD getting thejob wehadoursecond element ofit.Butthennotlong after NATO jobandthemultinational “I wasdrawn(toGloucester)by the come back,”headmits. escape fromhome,butit’s niceto “I spentmostofmycareertrying to childhood home. posted just250metresfromhis Reaction Corpsand,incredibly, is officer serves withHQAlliedRapid The 33-year-old Britishinfantry the Armycadetsasateenager. Imjin Barracksandrecallscomingto the grey-brick buildinginacornerof Major MartynFulford standsoutside 30 AUTUMN 2019 the imjin the a majorwasbig jump! cadets at16andcomingback at33as I camedownoneevening. I’d leftthe instructors inTesco inGloucester. So “I bumpedintooneofmyold years. Itwasjustreallygoodfun. you soldfor thenexthowever many Hill. Andasathirteen-year-old that’s some (ArmyReserves) guysonChosen and camcreamwesnuckupon “They gave uscamouflagedclothes friend. 13-year-old, attendingcadetswitha He firstcametothebarracksasa our families arefromthearea.” child, anditwasjustperfect asboth Base Home Imjin Barracksreportsfor duty Major whogrewupyards from off fast’.” “‘Keep going.Itpaysoff,andit 13-year-old self? And whatadvicewouldhegive tohis they gave me.” “I hopeIcangive backasmuch as see theenjoyment IgetoutofIt. over thelasttwentyyears. Ihopethey from theexperiencesthatI’ve gained “I thinkIbringadifferent perspective and family commitments allow. Now hegetsinvolved whenever work something back. always supportedme,soIowedthem “I justsaid‘whatcanIdo?’.They had @HQARRC they gave me. back asmuch I hopecangive Allied Rapid ReactionCorps ✂ USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS
INNSWORTH STATION Imjin Barracks Guardroom (24 hours) 01452 712612 extension 7089 Imjin Barracks Medical Centre 01452 712612 extension 5999 Imjin Barracks Dental 01452 712612 extension 5920 HQ ARRC Public Affairs Office 01452 718007 Station Staff Officer 01452 712612 extension 7848 Joint Casualty & Compassionate Centre 01452 519951
Welfare Office: Reception 01452 362550 extension 4550 Unit Welfare Officer / Unit Welfare Warrant Officer 01452 362557 extension 4557 Housing Officer 01452 362554 extension 4554
Out of hours Emergencies: HQ ARRC Staff Duty Officer 07788 418577 ARRC Support Battalion Duty Officer 07733 014295 Padre 07721 866581 / 01452 718551 EMERGENCY SERVICES Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade 999 Police Non-Emergency 101 HOUSING
CUT OUT AND KEEP Amey – Occupancy Service 0800 707 6000 Option 3, Option 1 (All SFA areas) (Monday - Friday 8am - 3pm) Amey – Maintenance Services Ashchurch, Churchdown, Innsworth and Quedgeley SFA areas 0800 707 6000 Option 1 (24 hours) Touchstone Maintenance Hucclecote, Kingsway and Tewkesbury SFA areas. 0800 9882433 (24 hours) MEARS Group 0800 0324547 Amey Housing (Innsworth) 01452 731416 Accommodation Stores (ASU) (Furniture for Quarters) 01452 712612 extension 7387 LOCAL AREA Innsworth Barber Shop 01452 712612 extension 6033 Gloucester Tourist Information Centre 01452 396572 Cheltenham Tourist Information Centre 01242 522878 Gloucester City Council 01452 396396 Gloucestershire County Council 01452 425000 Tewkesbury Borough Council 01684 295010 Wheatpieces Community Centre, Tewkesbury 01684 294713 Kingsway Community Centre 01452 721552 Churchdown Community Centre 01452 712553
the imjin AUTUMN 2019 31 the imjin Online
Never miss an issue with the imjin magazine now online. Visit the ARRC website and find the imjin located on the home page. www.arrc.nato.int