August 2014

wireTHE www.royalsignals.mod.uk The Magazine of The Meet the Corps RSM

WARRANT OFFICER CLASS ONE R J B LUKE ROYAL SIGNALS CORPS REGIMENTAL SERGEANT MAJOR Warrant Officer Class One (Corps Regimental Sergeant Major) Luke joined the Army in October 1991 and completed his basic training at 11 Signal Regiment in Catterick aged 18. After graduating from 8 Signal Regiment as a Telecommunication Operator (Radio Relay) he was sent to 1 () Armoured Division Headquarters and Signal Regiment (Herford). During this posting he was employed as a crewman and then detachment commander on various Ptarmigan detachments within 201 Signal Squadron. In 1994 he completed his first operational tour in West Belfast, Northern and was promoted to Lance Corporal. In 1995 he saw operational experience under the IFOR banner in Bosnia and Former Republic of Yugoslavia as a Site Commander on a remote communications site. Successfully completing the Royal Signals Corporals Course and Class One in trade he was posted to 3 (United Kingdom) Armoured Division Headquarters and Signal Regiment as a detachment commander within 222 Signal Squadron. An eight month deployment to BATUS in Canada saw him promoted to Corporal and subsequently moving to 7 Armoured Brigade Headquarters and Signal Squadron (207) in Hohne, Germany. Whilst serving with 207 he was employed as the Troop Corporal and an armoured Radio Relay Detachment Commander for Bravo Troop. During this tour he enjoyed two successful deployments to Kosovo to provide communications in support of KFOR and successfully completed the All Arms Skill at Arms Course.

In 2002 he was promoted to Sergeant and posted to 16 Signal Regiment in Elmpt where he was employed as a reconnaissance sergeant for 230 Signal Squadron. In 2005 and after 6 years in Germany he was to return once again to 3 (UK) Div HQ & Sig Regt and 222 Signal Squadron as a reconnaissance sergeant. After 2 years in post and a raft of military courses he was promoted to Staff Sergeant and moved 222 Signal Squadron to the newly reformed 22 Signal Regiment in .

After a detachment to the Falkland Islands as the Unit Sergeant Major of Joint Communications Unit Falkland Islands, he was posted to 11 (Royal School of Signals) Signal Regiment and assumed the position of Squadron Sergeant Major, 3 (Harrogate) Squadron. In 2011 and following a rewarding and successful assignment, he was assigned to 20 Armoured Brigade Headquarters and Signal Squadron (200) as the Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant. During this time he was deployed on Op HERRICK 15 and provided key life support to Task Force Helmand Headquarters within Main Operating Base Lashkar Gah. After only 7 months in post he was selected for promotion to Warrant Officer Class One and then appointed as the Regimental Sergeant Major for 3 (UK) Div HQ & Sig Regt. A highlight of this tour was to deploy with the Regiment and its personnel on Op HERRICK 18.

After successful selection on the Late Entry Commissioning Board in 2013, WO1 Luke was commissioned on 1 April 2014 and assumed the prestigious position of Corps Regimental Sergeant Major.

WO1 (CRSM) Luke is 39 and is married to Polly. They have three children, Harrison (13), Poppy (8) and Daisy (3 months). A proud Cornishman he enjoys sailing, running, cycling and all things automotive. AUGUST 2014 Vol. 68 No: 4 The Magazine of the Royal Corps of Signals Established in 1920 Find us on The Wire

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Editor: Mr Keith Pritchard Editor Deputy Editor: Ms J Burke Mr Keith Pritchard Tel: 01258 482817 All correspondence and material for publication in The Wire should be addressed to:

The Wire, RHQ Royal Signals, Blandford Camp, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8RH Email: [email protected] Contributors Deadline for The Wire : 15th February for publication in the April. 15th April for publication in the June. 15th June for publication in the August. 15th August for publication in the October. 15th October for publication in the December. Accounts / Subscriptions 10th December for publication in the February.

Mrs Jess Lawson To see The Wire on line or to refer to Guidelines for Contributors, go to: Tel: 01258 482087 http://www.army.mod.uk/signals/25070.aspx Subscribers All enquiries regarding subscriptions and changes of address of The Wire should be made to: 01258 482087 or 94371 2087 (mil) or [email protected]. Remittances should be made payable to Royal Signals Benevolent Fund CONTENTS Page August Edition News from Operations 2 News from Blandford 7 News from Training 11 News from Formations 20 Exercise CATTERICK CULMINATION Page 18 News from Regiments 23 News from Squadrons 82 Other Units 90 Race the Sun Page 56 Sport 99

Reunions 110 Last Post 110 Obituaries 111 RSA Reunion Weekend Page 102

FRONT COVER BACK COVER 2 (Catterick) Sqn, 11 (RSS) Sig Regt The Master with RHC IPs during the RSA deploying into Copehill Down village on Reunion Weekend Ex CATTERICK CULMINATION

Authors alone are responsible for the content of their articles. The opinions expressed in the articles of this publication are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the policy and views, official or otherwise, of the Royal Corps of Signals or the Ministry of Defence. All articles and submissions are published at the discretion of the Editor. This publication may contain official information. It should be treated with discretion by the recipient. THE WIRE, AUGUSTPrinted 2014 by Holbrook Printers Ltd, Norway Road, Hilsea, Portsmouth © Crown Copyright 1 NEWS FROM OPERATIONS

1st (UNITED KINGDOM) ARMOURED DIVISION HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL REGIMENT

JOINT FORCE CIS HQ KABUL COMMUNICATIONS UNIT

COMD Col J Hill OC Maj N Pryce Jones RSM WO1 (RSM) Mears Settling In – by Lt Catherine Dawes, KBL ICS Tp OC Commander’s Foreword Kabul Communications Unit is a fearless band of J6 ninjas The Regiment has carried out a successful RiP with 21 Signal (and officers) working tirelessly to support UK comms across Regiment to make up the bulk of JFCIS(A). The standard of the chaotic capital. Whilst Bastion packs, the KCU are the handover, at all levels, has been extremely high and I preparing for the possibility of enduring points of presence, would like to thank those outgoing soldiers for their efforts supporting infrastructure in areas such as Quarga, dubbed on what was, for many, an extended tour. They have left us ‘Sandhurst in the Sand’. After an emotional journey delayed in a strong position to see out the operation effectively. by a total of 6 days, the last troops arrived safely just in time Meanwhile it is clear that MST and PDT are paying dividends for the national elections and an earthquake in the Hindu and that the Regiment has already integrated fully with Kush – both mercifully less eventful than anticipated. soldiers and airmen from other units to form a truly joint organisation. We remain spread to all corners of the UK There are four detachments led by four strong characters. HQ effort in Afghanistan, continuing to support a mix of staff and ISAF is headed by SSgt Wayne Topping who, aside from being force elements on the ground. Austerity is beginning to ‘bite’, the self-proclaimed ‘MOSS God’, navigates his way through conditions are less comfortable, and the drive to redeploy the dozens of starred staff officers on site by spinning dits means we are managing a less resilient network with slower about ‘that time in ’. It may be busy, but response times. There is plenty to do, and the impact of ICS there’s ice cream and no stag! Quarga is the choice for the on operations remains as clear as ever. Our Corps’ reputation more adventurous Signaller. Sgt Dolan and his team balance on operations remains high. rapid fault fixing with ranges, sangar drills and living with Australians. Sgt Hamilton too has had his fair share of stag duty, sharing his spot with the Boss, Maj Nick Pryce- Jones, and his team of dubious experts and their bright ideas club- the NOC. Finally, at everyone’s favourite airport stop – KAIA – lives Sgt Copland and his crew whose will-power is challenged daily by the choice of Ben and Jerrys at three well stocked DFACs. Disciplinarian and coord-mastermind SSgt Tony ‘half a tour’ Richard arrived late after suspected man flu and has had his working area hazard-taped accordingly!

The outlook is full of unknowns as we watch the drawdown of Op HERRICK, but fuelled with 48 core fibre, enthusiasm and ice cream.

We look forward to an interesting and challenging tour. Watch this space.

Lowering of the 21 Signal Regiment Flag

Sig Cardwell raises the 1ADSR flag over JFCIS(A) HQ The KCU team

2 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 HELMAND ICS SIGNAL SQUARDON draw down was truly in full swing! The next few days were taken up by the RSOI programme; it was an introduction to OC Maj A Stannard Afghanistan with the latest up to date SOPS and TTPs. SSM WO2 (SSM) Scarcliff Instead of two days I can sum it up in about two minutes.

CIS Troop – by LCpl Gardiner, Eng Sect The Law of Armed Conflict: “We all have the right to defend ourselves!” Following 9 months of STA courses and support to MST Padres' Introduction: “We don’t do marriages!” exercises, 1 (UK) ADSR finally deployed to Afghanistan for Local Culture Brief: “No Farting!” HERRICK 20 on 26 May. They suffered a long journey – buses Prisoner Handling: “No Selfies!” broke down, ferries were missed and planes diverted. None Environmental health: “There are no known cures the less, they finally got to a position where the Regiment for Rabies!”, “Camel Spiders are fast, don’t try and was ready for the handover from 21 Signal Regiment. The first out run them!” tour for the majority, the first week was a steep learning curve as the crews learned the quirks and common faults of The second morning was titled ‘Acclimatisation PT’ and their networks. involved a 1.7 mile walk in 30 minutes which doesn’t sound too much but in 38° humid sunny weather in full PPE: Helmet, We all look forward to what will be a challenging and dynamic Sunglasses, Gloves and Body Armour people became very tour. sweaty, very quickly. The rest of the day involved grouping and zeroing on the 25m range and a few more power points after which we were finally issued our ‘Op Ammo’ and were free to roam Camp Bastion and start our HOTOs.

As we begin settling into our new roles we look forward to working with the variety of different cap badges and nationalities here in Bastion.

Sig Roberts on the RSOI ranges

The TacCIS team

Op PROMIC – by Sig Pratap Rai

As part of the withdrawal of UKFEs from Op HERRICK there is a requirement to recover all Operational data from throughout the Theatre AOR. In order to complete this mandate a team was stood up under the Op PROMIC banner. On 4 Mar 2014, an eleven man PROMIC team arrived in Camp Bastion to commence this task. Most of the team were deploying to Afghanistan for the first time and this was Capt Thorburn nailing two mags through the same hole! therefore a new experience for us. We were therefore rather excited and curious about the new environment but also looking forward to completing this task which had not been Close Support Troop – by Sig Lee tackled since the drawdown of UKFEs from Op TELIC. As expected the hot weather and sandy surroundings were an It was midday at RAF Brize-Norton when we embarked on the environment that we would have to get used to very quickly. new RAF Voyager Aircraft. Shortly after takeoff lunch was The whole team volunteered for this assignment and were served in a Tupperware box consisting of braised streak and made up of different trades from varied units throughout the vegetables – not bad for Army scoff! After watching a few Corps. We were all looking forward to a successful tour and straight-to-DVD films, I had a look outside and I was met by a were very optimistic from the off. view I’ve never seen before, it was a vast range of grey and jagged mountains with rivers. As soon as we finished RSOI we were allocated a working area where we set up the PROMIC office and workshop. This Due to a minor runway issue 30 minutes away from Bastion, was a baptism of fire for most of us and the first few weeks the plane was then rerouted to the United Arab Emirates gave us some invaluable experience. We were introduced which meant a 2 hour delay and a 10 hour aircraft turnaround into the PROMIC requirement by the JFCIS(A) team and for time. Always trying to think of the positives, at least I could the first couple of weeks we conducted as much training as tick off more countries I have visited before I die. we could to bring us all up to speed. Prior to arriving we did not fully understand the complexity of the task we were When we finally arrived in Camp Bastion, my first impression going to have to deal with but after our initial training we was that the camp seemed somewhat desolate; clearly the realised how busy we were going to be. As part of the

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 3 PROMIC mandate we were tasked with the destruction of Bastion Marathon. Capt Pollitt, regardless of being the oldest most OpCIS eqpt throughout Theatre. This can be extremely in the team still managed to beat all the young PROMIC team mundane work but is vital in ensuring that this eqpt does not on the 10km road race with a time of 41:14 mins! Recently the fall into the wrong hands. The Team, led by Capt Neil Pollitt, team had the opportunity to visit the Joint Aviation Group have been extremely proactive in ensuring that we complete (JAG) where we got the chance to have a close look at the our designated mandate correctly and faultlessly. The Apache helicopters and also got some photos taken in the Engineering Team, made up of varied elements from 16SR, cockpit. This has been an extremely successful and enjoyable 2SR and 21SR, with Cpl Frank Martinson as the lead engineer, tour so far in which we have gained a vast wealth of have been the backbone behind this. The rest of the team, experience. We look forward to finishing off this tour at the made up of LCpl Paul Renton, LCpl Will Younger and Sig beginning of September having completed a job well done. Pratap Rai are responsible for all the destruction and data recovery elements of the Op PROMIC process. LCpl Ryan Carlyle took on the responsibility of all the crypto recovery and Sig Penny Pennington and Sig ‘Deano’ O’Hara have led the PROMIC assurance element, ensuring that all Units are fully aware of what we do within Theatre. As the Op PROMIC process is extremely vital for the redeployment of Op HERRICK operational information assets, we must leave no stone unturned to ensure that we gather every bit of information and secure it for future assurance purposes.

Besides being busy in our daily jobs, we have also been involved in several sporting and military activities. The PROMIC team have been a key part of all the JFCIS(A) and HICSSS football and volleyball tournaments that have taken part over the past 4 months and have proven to be a force to be reckoned with. The team have also been successful in the March & Shoot competition, the CLSR 10km road race and the Team PROMIC!

7 ARMOURED BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL SQUADRON (207)

Main Troop – Capt Rich Miller Brigade Reconnaissance Force - by Cpl Ash Spooner

News From Operations – Capt Rich Miller Firstly I would like to start by saying congratulations to A/Sgt ‘Viking’ Aanes for getting promoted to Sgt. A lot has happened over the last few weeks as we draw ever closer to the arrival of 1 ADSR. The closure of Task Force Since our last set of wire notes the winter has been and gone Helmand was a significant milestone in our tour and led to a and therefore we are now experiencing the crops and poppy very busy period for Main Troop. Whilst continuing our growing at a rapid rate which has sometimes hampered Ops support for TFH in their last two weeks, we also had to slightly, as one week the crops were knee height then the provide a full comms suite to RC(SW) Main and Alt, in next week at head height. preparation for the re-subordination of UK force elements (regardless of some interesting weather!) Operation tempo has remained at a steady pace for the last couple of months; our commitments within the BRF have A Mobile Communications Unit was sited in the RC(SW) contained handover to Herrick 20 and preparing for the compound (upsetting the Americans, as they no longer had closure of ISAF forces and logistics in BSN. We have also been the tallest mast in RC(SW)) and Cpl Josh Page took his shift to tasked as a unit to train and execute Vehicle Interdict join Capt Katie Apps over in Leatherneck. As soon as the Operations to handover to the QDG in June. This has included RC(SW) shift had settled in, TFH closed down, resulting in us planning, training and proving that we have the skill and having to say goodbye to a number of 207 Sig Sqn and of resources to complete the task. Our biggest challenge is course, the 7 Bde Staff who we had been working closely with for 7 months. Sterga 2 was the last outstation to close with LCpl Stones being one of the last men out.

We still have a number of 207 personnel in a plethora of roles. Aside from the Operators, Engineers and Electricians of Main Tp, we also have detached personnel with the Theatre ES Battalion, Bastion QMs and Joint Force Support. Recently Cpl Ubi Rai completed a very successful tour as the S6 mentor in Shorabak with the ANA. But now we find ourselves with days to push, and some of our replacements are already part of the way through the RSOI sausage machine. Despite a long 9 month tour for many, our sense of humor has been retained. A great deal has been achieved and I believe all 7ABSS Troops can be very happy with the contribution they have made to the Op HERRICK 19 effort. BRF HAF Infill

4 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 About five minutes before the “brownout” getting our skills and drills slick in the short period that we communications support to the Manoeuvre Battle Group. have been given to train in. Significant efforts were placed on the remaining FOBs and getting them closed and return all personnel and equipment to BSN safely. This gave Cpl Bri ‘The Black Viking’ Woods adequate time to improve his already immaculate tan while providing Bowman support to BGHQ, not to mention 10 days of sandstorms and bad weather along the way. Instrumental to the mission’s success, he returned to BSN with the Danish Tank Platoon to a heroes welcome by the entire Danish contingent here in Camp Bastion waving miniature Danish flags and even showing off the reason most men like Denmark. A fitting farewell for the Danes as they bid the Afghan deserts farewell, and soon Afghanistan as a whole.

Meanwhile back in the luxury of his sub zero, well air conditioned tent with fitted bed, not a camp cot like the rest of us, Sgt Matt ‘Joneys Jr’ Baker resides. Together with the rest of the HQ staff, holding the fort back in BGHQ on watch keeper duties. Occasionally he gets up to fill the radios and Sgt ‘Viking’ Aanes in action even manages to change the Bowman fills. There are some malicious rumours of him changing the RRB legs and also some dodgy typing skills on T-Chat, however these have not We have now moved into transit accommodation which was been verified. In between his various man dates and leisurely seen as a start to the end. Our replacements are finally on the PT sessions, watching “Breaking Bad” on his iPad while way, which I’m sure will be welcomed with open arms. After cycling, Sgt Baker has indeed found the time to be at work the 6 days mandatory RSOI we will start the handover. Once and pull off some rather short 12 hours shifts. With such a the accounts are handed over we will take them on “on the rushed schedule, he still finds time to be the palest man to sit ground” for a hand over Op then it's big smiles all the way in the sun for hours everyday. to Cyprus and finally home. After being away from our loved ones for 9 Months, POL is going to be VERY welcomed. The HOTO period is soon upon us and with signs of 20 Bde flashes walking around, it’s even more obvious it’s almost home time. Sgt Baker makes it his mission to reinforce his troops (just one) that the end is near and to keep going.

Main Troop FRT – by LCpl Ramsahye

Another exciting month on OP Herrick has passed and we find ourselves only 4 weeks away from the end of tour. April was yet another busy month for the FRT with over 1500 pieces of Bowman kit passing through our workshop.

A/Cpl ‘Face time’ Bryan began the month by organising a BBQ to say farewell to those members of 207 that would be leaving us and also to help bring HICSS and TACCIS together outside of work. This was a very successful event and a good The BRF Elite J6 Team time was had by all.

We now say goodbye to A/Cpl Bryan amongst others and the Manoeuvre Battle Group RLD – by Cpl Woods FRT finds itself down to 4 techs with most of us now concentrating on handover/takeover in preparation for our As we draw close to the end of our tour, there is still some replacements arriving at the end of May. work to be done for the RLDs, as we continue to provide

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 5 With 4 weeks to go all eyes are focussed on making the most whom they fall under in the Manoeuvre Battle Group. of the 35 degree plus weather and are getting in some good Thankfully no serious casualties were sustained while on Ops. tanning practice for Cyprus. Following them hotly out of Theatre 24 hours later is Sig MVR BG RLS – by LCpl McDermott and LCpl McLoughlin Rabar and myself. We have enjoyed our time with the Company and have forged some long lasting friendships After the closure of TFH in April, Cpl Hunt, LCpl ‘Gaz’ which we hope to make use of again whether on exercise or McDermott and LCpl ‘Paddy’ Mcloughlin moved across to on operations, or hopefully in the bars of Tallinn! take up residence with Manoeuvre Battle Group. Working Sterga 2 – by LCpl Stones under the guidance of 4 Scots has been an extremely enjoyable experience. It’s been great to have a new challenge The last FOB in Helmand “OP Sterga 2” was situated 18km and work with some new faces. The 4 Scots guys have been south east of Camp Bastion. One of the main roles of the great to work with, always up for a laugh and plenty of banter base was to provide ISTAR coverage to allow other bases to to boot! draw down and provide over watch for the voting in the Afghan elections. The base was equipped with green eyes LCpl McDermott took up a and a ‘PTDS balloon’. The base also had two Rebro’s set up in new role as Military Line the MDOR; one for the ‘Manoeuvre Battle Group’ command Manager over a team of five net and another for the ‘UK FE’ command net which was used LECs, employing them on by the ‘Brigade Advisory Team. various taskings required by the QM. LCpl McLoughlin After the voting finished in early April the effort to close the continued his role providing final Forward Operating Base in Afghanistan began. There RLS support to the battle were only around four weeks to have the base closed by the group and keeping a scheduled date of May 12 and over the following three weeks watchful eye over all the life in Sterga 2 became more basic. It began with flooring, happenings within the Battle furniture, the welfare tent and lighting/power in the tents Group's accommodation. Cpl being removed. Soon after the tents themselves, running Hunt took over as water, the cookhouse and gym were all gone. In an Manager, a pretty hard core Operational sense, changes in these three weeks were very tasking, but knowing Cpl limited. The only real change over this time was that the ‘MTB’ Hunt as I do, he is Med-Centre was removed and was now simply a Mastiff. more than capable of providing exactly what is With around one week remaining everyone in Sterga 2 was required. Sig Guy pretending he knows living out of their day sacks and under our ponchos. All non- what to do with a FEPS essential equipment had already been sent back to Bastion. Over the past 6 weeks we In the final five days the alternative Ops Room was set up and have made some good MMS was now used for our VOIP phone and e-mail means. mates, with the promise of many a night out in Fallingbostel The base's MCU was lowered and the Kestrel and green eyes awaiting us once HERRICK 19 has concluded where no doubt feeds were removed. The base's "105mm light gun" and the banter will reach epic levels! MAMBA (Mobile Artillery and Mortar Based Radar) detection vehicle were also removed. The PTDS' balloon was also EST Coy – by Cpl French and Sig Rabar lowered and packed away, though two base ISTAR cameras remained. On 9 May we saw the Estonian Company, 16 Scouts Battalion leave Theatre, bringing an end to their Operations as a Force On May 10 the MDOR and alternative Ops Room were torn Element role in Afghanistan. They finished with a lowering of down and packed away. The only communications that the flag ceremony and a VIP visit from RCSW members and remained were VHF and Tac-Sat from a Husky. Later that day their own Chief of Defence in attendance. the last flights and the CLP arrived at ‘Sterga 2’ and the remaining men and equipment were taken back to Bastion. Herrick 19 has been very successful for the Company playing a The last remaining British ‘Forward Operating Base’ in major role in the BRACT process of handing over MOB Price Afghanistan was now closed. and various American PBs and FOBs in the Sangin area. I know their contribution has been highly valued by 4 Scots, of

105mm gun leaving Sturga 2 Helmand river looking from the East wall

6 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 NEWS FROM BLANDFORD

HEADQUARTERS ROYAL SIGNALS

THINKING OF COMMISSIONING FROM THE RANKS? HQ R SIGNALS will be running an Officer Selection Board 20-24 October 2014 in Blandford. All applicants must be recommended by their Chain of Command.

The opportunity to commission from the ranks is open to all soldiers who are eligible and are recommended as having the potential to become an officer.

Applicants must be 18 years of age or over and normally no older than 28 years and 6 months in order to ensure attendance at Sandhurst before their 29th birthday.

Serving soldiers will be required to meet the minimum standard of 5 GCSE passes or equivalent in 5 subjects, including English Language and Maths at Grade C (or above) or SNVQ 2 or GNVQ (incorporating Key Skills) at intermediate level.

The OSB will assess the soldier’s potential for commissioning into the Army, rather than just R SIGNALS. All soldiers will be assessed in a similar manner using the following methods:

(1) Command Tasks. (2) Interview. (3) Essay. (4) Group Discussion. (5) Presentations. (6) Planning Exercise. (7) General Knowledge. (8) Physical.

For further information please see Policy Directive 23 or contact Vikki Carpenter on 94371 2957.

CIS TRIALS AND DEVELOPMENT UNIT

Charge ECM System Upgrade Trial - by LCpl Longman use, such as the standing and kneeling. Due to the fact we were on an uneven, gravelly, concrete surface we found from It has been a busy period for the members of Trials Troop previous trials that even with knee and elbow pads the with various trials happening back to back. On Sunday 6 April surface soon took its toll due to the numerous times we had the members of 543 ECM (Electronic Counter Measures) team to change positions. Luckily for us, someone came up with consisting of SSgt Dave Nix, Cpl Geordie Allen, LCpl Alex the genius idea of bringing old PT foam mats from the gym Reid, Sig Claire West and LCpl which worked a treat for the rest Mikey Longman, plus a couple of of the trial! scientists from DSTL, set off for another week of trials on Pershore We weren’t the only ones to be Airfield. using the airfield that week as LCpl Reid found out! We were The journey got off to a shaky start also joined by around 8 fully with the SatNav almost taking the marked police fast response 7.5 tonne DAF down some vehicles who were practising extremely skinny streets, but their drills and manoeuvres at luckily due to the author’s ‘tekkers’ high speed. It seemed that LCpl driving skills the team managed to Reid had forgotten his glasses find an alternative route despite that day because he didn’t notice the constant nagging of the SatNav the 8 loud, bright police cars to ‘Do a U turn’. Eventually LCpl heading towards him, causing Longman and Sig Claire West them to abandon their arrived at the accommodation and manoeuvre half way through and met up with the rest of the team drive over to us. We were hoping and a very smug Cpl Geordie Allen, LCpl Reid was going to be who for the remainder of the trial arrested but there was no such kept gloating about the Jacuzzi luck! bath in his room. During the Trial we managed to With Charge ECM being a man pack achieve some good results using piece of equipment, it meant that Charge ECM, so overall a very we had to trial it in the positions successful trial. that it could find itself in when in Sig West on ECM Trial

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 7 Bowman VHF Data Upgrade Experimentation - by Sig Lee Shortly after 0900 we arrived at Hyde Park Barracks just in time to see the guard mount inspection. After being shown The VHF Data Upgrade evaluation was conducted between 24 our accommodation we headed out onto the streets in search February and 14 March 2014, although preparation had started of the underground. We headed to Westminster and the many months previously. The aim of the event was to Jewel Tower for our first visit of the day. On arrival we evaluate upcoming upgrades to the Bowman VHF Data received an informative talk about the history of the building Service to address performance aspects as part of the general and its architecture. This is where imperial measurements BCIP 5.5 upgrade. This included an improvement in situational such as the pint were stored securely. We then made our way awareness consistency within a VHF network with various over to The Houses of Parliament and were given an exclusive configurations of situational awareness being experimented guided tour up to the summit of the Queen Elizabeth Tower with by Trials Troop. and Big Ben. We had to climb 334 stairs to witness Big Ben and see how the clock mechanisms worked. We then climbed The trial ran without a hitch, except for the odd Bowman plan even further up to listen to the world famous Westminster failing, with great organisation from the trial leader and chimes. Once we had descended from the top of Big Ben, we seniors involved. The trial would not have been successful headed over to the MoD Main building where we were given without support from RAAT troops taken mainly from units another guided tour, this time into the Henry VIII Wine Cellar within 3(UK) Division; they provided vital manning and where we also took in some lunch. A look around the rest of vehicles, which enabled us to complete the evaluation. Using the building followed, including a sneaky little look into a the upgraded software, we achieved the results necessary for serving Ministers office! our Bowman data services to be improved in various ways and improve the overall situation awareness of commanders.

Project VIRTUS - by LCpl McColl

On 28 April 2014 CIS TDU began trialling Project VIRTUS. This trial was designed to test potential new solutions to Personal Load Carrying Equipement (PLCE) which includes bergans, day sacks, body armour, helmets and all other types of PPE used in operational theatres. The main tests were donning, doffing and overall performance (weight, comfort) whilst performing tasks such as setting up and tearing down of detachments as well as entering, exiting and driving vehicles.

There were 4 different variants of kit to be trialled, each with Maj Hill, LCpl McColl, Sig Keating, Sig West, LCpl Longman, Cpl their own individual styles. The layout of the 2 week trial was Venables, LCpl Hughes, WO2(YofS) Webster and Sgt Lamkin at split into 3 parts consisting of Bowman trial, Falcon trial and the Jewel Tower, Seer trial. For the duration of the different trials we had attachments from 14 Signal Regiment (Electronic Warfare), LCpl Harrison and LCpl Coats, who brought their own Seer Once our tours had finished we headed back to Hyde Park equipment to aid us in trialling the different variants. We also Barracks to be shown all the Regiment’s current dress had attachments from 11 Signal Regiment Falcon Troop under uniform for ceremonial duties. On this tour we learnt that 2.5 Cpl Fearnie, who were tasked to set up a Falcon detachment kilograms of bees wax is used on each boot to make it shine. whilst wearing each individual variant of VIRTUS equipment. We were shown the Regiments solid silver marching drums that were presented to them by King George III in 1805. We started by donning the first set of equipment and driving out to various locations whilst monitoring how comfortable After a quick change parade we made our way via dinner, to and flexible the equipment was to drive in a Land Rover FFR. The Top Secret Comedy Club. After seeing the stand up acts We then proceeded to set up a Bowman detachment we started heading back to camp when we stumbled upon including cam net, tent and mast in order to observe the Joel Dommett from Impractical Jokers, where a quick photo previously described factors. After tearing down the with him had to be taken. detachment and returning to base location we then filled in a survey expressing our opinions. All in all, a very good and informative trip was had by the Troop. Trials Troop would like to thank WO2 (YofS) Chris In the second week we were joined by the 14 Sig Regt (EW) Webster for an excellent day out and a break from trials. Seer detachment who set off on foot patrols and simulating coming under enemy contact with the bergans packed as they would be as part of a LEWT detachment.

The final 3 days of the trial consisted of testing the variants whilst setting up a Falcon detachment mirroring the Bowman set ups but on a larger scale. Overall, we successfully trialled the different types of equipment that would be suitable for introduction into specialist roles. It was good to see the different types of new kit being designed and to be given the opportunity to give feedback on what we thought.

Exercise LONDON TRIAL - by Sig Keating

On 14 May 2014, CIS TDU travelled to London to visit various iconic British landmarks and learn a little about how the MoD and Houses of Parliament interact. As timings were critical we had to set off at 0600 hrs to avoid getting stuck in the London traffic. CIS TDU climb the Queen Elizabeth Tower to see Big Ben

8 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 The Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team are recruiting

Open to all Regular and Reserve Royal Signals personnel and QGS

No previous motorbike experience necessary

Must be MFD and a Class 2 THE NEXT SELECTION BOARD IS 16 SEPTEMBER 2014 For further information see PD 159 or contact D Soldiers at HQ R SIGNALS on 94371 2957

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 9 HAVE YOU GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO REPRESENT THE CORPS AROUND THE UK? The R SIGNALS need bright, enthusiastic individuals to join their recruiters all across the UK. Here are the types of recruiting posts available to Royal Signals soldiers: Corps Recruiting Team (CRT): Based in HQ R Signals, Blandford Camp. This team visit various schools, college career fairs and events throughout the country to promote and raise awareness of the career opportunities within the Royal Corps of Signals. They also support AT exercises overseas. Outreach Team (O/T): These teams are multi cap badged and undertake a range of activities with potential recruits such as Insight Courses, visits to schools and colleges, Career Fairs and Personal Development Activity Days. Army Career Centre (ACC): ACCs are located in towns across the UK. Their primary function is to advise potential recruits about the best career for them within the Army. These recruiters also have responsibilities to recruit for the Corps. National Recruiting Centre (NRC) Upavon: This individual is responsible for ensuring potential recruits move through the recruiting process effectively. This is an office based role working alongside all cap badges and our civilian partners. Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team (RSMDT): Known as The White Helmets and are based in Blandford Camp. The team are known all over the world for their exciting, well planned and executed motorcycle displays. The RSMDT perform at various military and community engagement events and contribute to the Corps overall recruiting effort. No motorcycle experience required. The team are likely to show in SWEDEN next year and USA in 2016. Below is a list of the posts available over the coming 12 months:

LOCATION RANK DATE REQUIRED

CRT Blandford 2 x Sig January 2015

Cpl June 2015

O/T Wethersfield Sgt March 2015

O/T Inverness LCpl May 2015

O/T Aldershot LCpl March 2015

O/T Exeter LCpl May 2015 2 x Sig

O/T York 2 x Sig June 2015

O/T Preston Sig April 2015

O/T Glasgow Sig August 2015

O/T Chilwell Sig April 2015

O/T Stafford Sig August 2015

O/T Woolwich 2 x Sig Jan, May 2015

O/T Brecon 2 x Sig May, July 2015

ACC Chatham Cpl January 2015

ACC Bournemouth Cpl March 2015

ACC Chelmsford Cpl June 2015

NRC Upavon LCpl November 2015

RSMDT 8 x Sig - Cpl January 2015

HQ R SIGNALS will be running a PD18 selection board in Blandford on 16 September 2014 to select for the posts above. Further information can be obtained from your CoC, Policy Directive 18, Policy Directive 159 (for RSMDT) or by contacting Vikki Carpenter on 94371 2957.

10 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 NEWS FROM TRAINING

B SQUADRON Army training REGIMENT WINCHESTER

OC Maj Elizabeth Roberts ATR Winchester Football Season 2013/14 – by Cpl Brereton SSM WO2 (SSM) Whitmore We started off with a few pre-season fixtures to acquire The Phase One training machine has continued at a pace since interest and see if the Regiment would be capable of fielding the last submission, over 300 Recruits having passed out onto a strong side on a regular basis. The tempo of Phase 1 Phase 2 training; a privileged 25 of whom are heading to training, with each training Sqn being on a different sunny Blandford to join our illustrious Corps. The Regiment programme makes this particularly challenging. Each player recently had the privilege of the Corps Colonel presiding over would have to commit their own time to training with very a pass off parade which was commanded by the Officer little opportunity being available during working hours. Pre Commanding B Squadron, Maj Elizabeth Roberts. The Colonel season kicked off with a tour to Belgium, the purpose of this was impressed by the turnout and standard of drill of the was to instil team cohesion and rally interest in the team. It recruits and permanent staff. Following the parade, he met consisted of 3 games against opposing sides FC Bergan, SC the various prize winners before retiring to the Officers’ Mess Ommerod and VFM Ouddorp. All three teams were tough for the commissioning lunch. and well organised, proving very difficult to break down. The Corps was represented by Cpl ‘Cat’ Brereton and Sgt ‘Leg The latest turn of the posting handle has seen a number of Breaker’ Carter. The outcome of the tour: won one, drew comings and goings on the officer front. Capt Elizabeth one and lost one. It was considered a success and triggered Eldridge has joined us from 14 Signal Regiment (Electronic further interest in the team. Warfare) after returning from Op HERRICK 19. Capt Will Easton is heading in the opposite direction to take up post as The team started the season with a squad of over 20 players, Officer Commanding Signals Wing at the Afghan National it was decided the main effort for the team was the Minor Army Officer Academy in Kabul. We are confident the cadets Unit’s Southern Cup, using the league fixtures to trial tactics will benefit greatly from his eccentricity and extensive and team rotation. The team played against RMAS, 25 Trg exercise experience in Kenya. Joking aside, we hope he has a Regt, 17 P&M RLC, 11 Trg Bat REME and 1 Gren Guards, rewarding tour and we look forward to his safe return in eight finishing comfortably in second place. Sgt Boyle, Cpl months time. ‘Hamstring’ Bold, Cpl ‘Cat’ Brereton and WO2 Mike Murphy were regulars in the team throughout the season. With the At the other side of the spectrum, Capts Barry Rowson and League taking the back burner to the Minor Unit's Southern John Triddon are heading to pastures new in 1 (UK) Civ Div. Cup, the team pushed hard during midweek games. The Officers’ Mess has been considerably quieter since their departures, John’s (a closet Alan Titmarsh) project garden is Playing hard and working together the team found now resembling a scene from the Sahara and an admin vortex themselves in the final of the Cup against the holders, 1 RTR. long suspected to be Barry’s has disappeared from A Taking to the field to represent the Corps for ATR Winchester Squadron HQ. We wish them both the best with their new were Cpl Brereton, Cpl Bold, Sgt Boyle and WO2 Murphy - all careers and hope to see them around London sometime of whom had major parts to play in the game ahead. We soon. We have also seen the departure of Cpl Bolding, who came out on top with both teams throwing everything they returned to 14 Signal Regiment (Electronic Warfare) on had at each other. The referee blew the final whistle and ATR promotion to Sergeant. Winchester were crowned the Minor Unit Champions. A great achievement which the team will look to build upon ahead of Members of the Corps have made a valued contribution to their title defence next season. the Regiment’s sporting success, most notably WO2 Murphy, Sgt Carter and Cpls Brereton, Rabbett and Bolding who have Race the Sun – by Sgt Callaghan featured heavily for the Regimental football team, the recent winners of the Minor Units Southern Cup. This author has On Tuesday 28 May 2014 a group of keen volunteers from ATR competed for the Regiment in several Army events Winchester, led by the ever enthusiastic Cpl Ewan Portwain, and finished first in the Regiment’s Inter-Sqn Off Road met at the Gymnasium for a motivational speech by the team Triathlon. Cpl Brereton has raced for the Regimental team in captain. They then embarked on the five hour drive to York the Rat Race 20 miler, which as the name suggests covered a to take part in this year’s Race the Sun competition. distance of 20 miles and crossing numerous obstacles - a gruelling feat which he completed in a time of just over 4hrs. It was to be an early start for most competitors as the event Finally a mixed cap badge team headed up to York to take began with a event that left Cpl ‘Tommo’ Thomas with part in Race the Sun - more to follow on that shortly. numb arms after an hour and a half of paddling. The next leg was a 12km River Run undertaken by Cpl ‘Riz’ Rizvi who Over the next couple of months we look forward to a managed to drag himself out of Monday night’s disco gear to battlefield tour to Portugal (it had originally been scheduled put in a solid performance. to be a staff ride to the Crimea, until recent events forced something of a re-think) to follow the Peninsular Campaign. A few events on, the team were going strong and up stepped There is also an Adventure Training expedition heading out to Cpl ‘Noodles’ Hodskinson to put in an excellent performance California in September, which will comprise of trekking in the and finish first on the moor run, clawing back some valuable Yosemite National Park followed by Mountain Biking in the time. Leg 7 was the gruelling Half Marathon, Cpl Hannah Cottonwood Valley. Whittingham blitzed the hilly course in an impressive one hour and thirty nine minutes.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 11 By leg 9 We were in a strong position and it was the turn of grounds and started to absorb the atmosphere of the longest Cpl Sian Peters to put in another sterling performance on the obstacle course in the world. fell run, making up even more time. There had been much nervous anticipation for leg 10 as Sgt ‘Boydy’ Boyd of ATR Moving to registration the team could see other competitors Winchester Gymnasium was doing the orienteering. Although making their way through the gruelling course. Being he struggles to navigate to the camp gates most mornings, he warmed up by civilians in morph suits it was all the guys could managed to blag his way round the course by latching onto do not to laugh at guys wearing tight PTI shirts in the crowd. the team ahead, gaining all the stamps required in a very respectable time. The team set off at a good pace passing people with ease. Problems started half way through after completing a water The race was coming to an end. Two strong individual obstacle and then standing at a bottle neck for 25 minutes. performances from LCpl Hannah Tomes in the open water The team soon started to tighten up and lose muscle power. swim and Cpl Nick Northall in the bike-run events, saw the With people lining the tracks being stretchered off and pulling team in strong standing in the overall positions. up with cramp, the ATR Winchester team powered through, passing check point after check point. Contending with The event finished with a stretcher race around Imphal obstacles such as 200m monkey bars, 100m lake swim, 10m Barracks and although all competitors on ATR Winchester's high dive, hay bale pyramids, hill reps and water slide, the stretcher already had at least one event under their belts, team went through several dark moments along the way. they finished in fourth place securing our place as runners up in Race the Sun 2014. Well done team. They fought through, staying together all the way. Upon reaching the 18 mile point they hit a wall, legs were seizing Rat Race The Dirty Weekender, Burghley House 10 MAY 14 and arms were like concrete; the team had to dig deep to find – by Cpl Brereton the energy just to carry on. As the hours passed all the team could think about was the burger awaiting at the finish point. Ten members of permanent staff volunteered to put their The last obstacle came and the team soon clambered over the bodies on the line and complete the 20 mile assault course three 12 foot walls. The finish line was there and the team including 200 obstacles in the grounds of 16th century were together, a great result. Whilst exchanging timing chips Elizabethan Burghley House in Lincolnshire. The group set off for medals, the guys found themselves auto piloted into the for the Rat Race at 0540 on the morning of the event, the beer tent for a well deserved cold one. journey took a little over 4 hours until they arrived in the

11th (ROYAL SCHOOL OF SIGNALS) SIGNAL REGIMENT BLANDFORD

CO Lt Col M C Brookes Sgt Sanders will be a sad loss to all who worked with him RSM WO1 (RSM) C Hoggard throughout his career, a genuinely nice guy who would give up his own time without question to help anyone. Good luck 2 (CATTERICK) SQUADRON in the future Steve from all in 2 Sqn.

OC Maj G Wills 3 (HARROGATE) SQUADRON SSM WO2 (SSM) Umney OC Maj R Jacques 2 (Catterick) Squadron Brewery Trip 12 Jun 14 SSM WO2 (SSM) Kemp

On Thursday 12 June members of 2 Sqn took part in a tour of SHQ Notes – by SSgt Chivers the Badger Brewery in Blandford, the tour was organised primarily as a leaving function to say goodbye to Sgt Steve With the new OC Sqn having settled in, 3 Sqn SHQ took the Sanders on completion of 22 years service and Cpl Tony opportunity to conduct a team building activity, walking along Crawford on posting to 2 Sig Regt. the beautiful Jurassic Coast. The sun was shining and the views were incredible as we walked from Lulworth Cove It turned out to be a very enjoyable evening. It was also along the coastline to Durdle Door. A quick photo stop was educational with SSgt (YofS) Chris Brown finding out that taken before taking the short cut across from Scratchy Fosters lager was not the only alcoholic drink in existence. It Bottom (it is really called that) to traverse the more rural was also discovered that we, as a Sqn with the proper use of Sqn funds could begin to brew our own ale at a small cost, with the Chief Instructor, Capt Gethin Thomas, especially keen on having this introduced into his own training plan.

And so it was on to the speeches with the task of summing up Sgt Sanders’ 22 years in the Army falling to WO1 Ian Wells, a seemingly impossible task with Sgt Sanders being so apparently squeaky clean, but if you dig deep enough you will always find dirt. With Mr Wells in full swing I think everyone was surprised to hear of Sgt Sanders’ multiple misdemeanours including some stints in MCTC. My personal highlight however was hearing that on his first day in his first unit he was sent to the gym to collect a menstrual cycle and duly endeavoured to complete his task! SHQ Living the Dream

12 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 scenery back to Lulworth Cove for a spot of lunch. It was all over too soon as work commitments beckoned, but a good day was had by all. I think Andy Fulton’s dogs were glad to get out of the sunshine and have a rest following all that exercise!

Military Support Section – by Sgt Slade

It has been a particularly busy month for Military Support Section both in and out of work. Over the last five weeks the section has been employed on Ex AQUILA STAR, Ex RISING STAR, Ex KEY DEVELOPMENT 4 and attending a Microsoft Exchange 2010 course. In addition, there has also been a complete redesign and rebuild of the Network Infrastructure at Piddlehinton Camp. Members of the team are also active supporting weekend MATT training for the Regiment.

It hasn’t been ‘all work and no play’ as members of the section have been able to participate in sporting activities, such as Inter Corp Hockey and Race the Sun as well as charity events for Rally for Heroes. Sig Morgan: “Show me the money”

On a final note, many congratulations go to Sgt Smith on ‘Help for Heroes’. The purpose of the event was to raise becoming a father. awareness of the organisation whilst raising money for the charity. We took a great pride in representing such a Engineer Graduations – by Sgt ‘Razor’ Gillett worthwhile charity. Not only did we collect money on the door of the Tesco supermarket in Bournemouth, we also The Regimental graduation on 30 May 14 saw OC 3 Sqn, Maj helped the public pack their shopping. We managed to Jacques present CEUR 13/003 with their certificates for collect a total of £763.00 for the charity. completing their Class 1 CS Engineer course. Well done to LCpl Bipendra Gurung who received the Top Student award. All agreed that the experience was both fulfilling and rewarding, knowing that the public gave such a huge amount A farewell also goes to CEBR 13/002 from Battleaxe Tp and of money in such a short period of time. Some of us willingly CEBR 13/003 from Lightning Tp. With both courses volunteered for the following day on Sunday 8 June to collect successfully completed, Sig Easter and Sig Morgan money in the same manner. The event was led by Debbie respectively were awarded the Top Student awards which Hogg, who has been the co-ordinator for Help for Heroes in was thoroughly deserved. CEBR 13/002’s graduation will be Dorset. We would like to thank her for letting us participate remembered for Sig Chidgey’s drill where he tick-tocked up to in such a meaningful event. the OC Sqn. CEBR 13/003’s graduation will be remembered for the shock on students' faces as Sig Morgan was Exercise HARROGATE RUNNER - by Sig Moya announced as a great hockey player. Both courses are posted across the wider Corps community and have received a firm A thirteen-and-a-bit mile run in the New Forest promised to be foundation to their future careers. a little different from what you might expect from a normal Sunday exercise. It might be physically tiring, but it would Recent arrivals include, CEBR 14-001, CEBR 14-002 and the also be an easily recognisable milestone to brag about and Phase 3 soldiers returning to Blandford on CEUR 14-001. feel proud of. Of course, after a season of rain, flooding, and chilly grey skies, we expected our half marathon, Exercise BATTLEAXE TROOP HARROGATE RUNNER, to be a cold and muddy affair.

OC Capt Kedar Rai The sun rose, however, warm and encouraging. There were SSgt SSgt Gerard no rainclouds and the wind was hardly stronger than a cool breeze. By the time we all met in the museum car park to Phase 2 Soldiers Volunteer for a Charity Event confirm who was able to run and who had disappeared with a - by Sig Dulson, CEBR 13/010 last minute alibi, we were more worried about sunburn than wind chill. Most of the exercise’s participants had never On Saturday 7 June 2014 a total of seven Phase 2 soldiers, led attempted running such a distance. Attitudes were a mix of by Capt Kedar Rai, took part in a charity event in support of anticipation and apprehension. The half marathon veterans amongst us took this opportunity to reassure the less experienced runners… by wildly exaggerating accounts of fatigue and muscle soreness, or by suggesting the local hospital as a post-exercise rendezvous point.

When we arrived at Brockenhurst College, the admin venue, the weather felt more like May than March. We picked up our race numbers, eyed the t-shirts and goodie bags that would go to race finishers, and tried to find unoccupied toilets or port-a-loos, before following the human herd that was making its way to the start line. We gathered in a loose huddle near the starting line, speculating on our personal performances to come. A few seconds later, the starting gun went off and we were soon separated by our individual efforts. “There go the lunatics,” someone shouted as the keen runners among us Filling bags n’ raising cash headed off to fill gaps closer to the front.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 13 It took a few miles for everyone to set their paces and find In Troop, the Section Commanders’ were nominated a the speeds they could endure over the distance to come. The team to mentor and the responsibility fell to us to get the route was reputed to be fairly flat, but we were running over section ready for the event as we saw fit. There were some small hills and uneven ground right from the off. The worst of common lessons provided for all, to revise basic skills, but it the inclines was not so bad, and there were more flat sections was clear that the performance of the section was going to than slopes. reflect a lot on the Sect Comd. Most members of my section responded by showing really good leadership and high There were water stations (complete with tubs of free jelly potential to be leaders in the future, although the effort babies) every three or four miles. These were greatly overall was second to none. Such events should encourage appreciated as the weather warmed towards midday and the Phase 2 trainees and other members of Regiment to showed no signs of cooling down as the afternoon participate and show their potential. approached. Some of the marshalling was performed by Army cadets under the direction of a captain bearing a Royal The event itself took place over what seemed to be a very Signals TRF. Runners were met with encouragement from long Saturday, and the sun decided to make an appearance every marshal they ran past and the inspiration really helped just as we donned our CBRN gear. It then beat down on us drive us on through the walls of fatigue to come. There were throughout the obstacle course stand, and seemed to get also horses and ponies standing in nearby fields and woods, hotter during the rapid replenishment phase. The bayonet but they seemed largely uninterested in the race and not one stand was our last stand, and they had managed to get of them clapped or cheered. together a very good battle effects package, which really helped when crawling through the trench. The benefit of Part of the run had been re-routed to avoid particularly deep doing it last was that the mud had mostly dried out, whereas puddles. As it was our first time on the course, this made some of the other sections had to spend the whole day caked little difference to us as we were not familiar with the old in the stuff. route. That was, however, until the finish was “just around the next corner” for the sixth corner in a row. Some mix-up It seemed to me that all soldiers across the board were with measurements meant that the mileage markers had putting a huge amount of effort into the day, and my section been placed too close together earlier on. As a result, we had was rewarded in the end, as we won the Best Section award. to make up the remaining distance at the end of the race. We only dropped three points over the whole day; however, What was intended to be a hundred-metre sprint turned out the section that we beat into second place was only one point to be a half-mile gallop to the finish. behind us. It is clear that there were plenty of people performing to a high level. Finally, with equal parts elation and relief on our salt-stained faces, we limped with the other sore-legged runners back to the administration venue. Everyone had taken something positive away from the event and we had raised £425 for Oakhaven Hospice Trust. Those who were familiar with the distance had improved on their best time, and those who had never attempted a half marathon had seen that it was far from impossible – something to be tried again, and a good measure of mental and physical stamina. Finally, as we were stretching off our gradually-stiffening legs in the car park, the event was concluded by a mildly concerned voice saying, “I think I’ve got a PFA in the morning…”

Gordon’s Cup - Best Section

4 (MILITARY TRAINING) SQUADRON

OC Maj E Mortimore SSM WO2 (SSM) B Sherwin

Welcomes and Farewells

The Squadron has seen plenty of changes in personalities in the past few weeks. Firstly we welcome our new members of The exhausted but happy runners 4 (Mil Trg) Sqn permanent staff; Capt Steve Spink joins us as the new 2IC, Capt Lee Crompton joins us as the new MAA.

ULSTER TROOP As always with new arrivals, come our farewells. We say farewell to: Capt Mick Brown and Capt Rab Lundie. A big OC Lt McGraw thank you to both for the hard work and commitment they SSgt SSgt McCreadie have shown during their time at 4 (Mil Trg) Sqn.

Gordon’s Cup - by Cpl Rai As ever, the Squadron has been busy delivering CLM and PNCO courses to the wider Corps. Additionally the men and The 9 separate stands that formed this event were women of 4 (Mil Trg) Sqn have found time to represent the comprehensive and well planned. It has tested a number of Corps and Regt at sport. A successful Gordon’s Cup was also aspects needed to succeed on the battlefield including delivered by SSgt Gopal Saru, more on that later. leadership, physical endurance and determination.

14 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 611 (Comms Trg) Troop – by Cpl Jamieson degree to which we can consistently achieve high standards and measure the strategic value. The last few months have flown by for 611 Tp as we have maintained our frantic pace of fulfilling the training Sadly it is time to say goodbye to SSgt Stu Welton who has requirements from ‘the School’. With the usual exercise taken over the responsibility of SSI PNCO training team. commitments of taking out the Tp Comds cse, YofS Cse, FofS Cse, FofS (IS) Cse, EW Op Cse, and Ph 2 CS Op Courses (did I Gordon’s Cup Competition - 31 May 14 forget any?) – keeping us busy, we thought things might ease up towards the end of the year, but we were wrong! We are The Gordon’s Cup Competition (GCC) is a bi-annual military in fact going to become even busier as the CS Op Upgrader skills competition predominately designed for Phase 2 soldiers course has been extended from one month to seven! which is held twice (once in summer and once in winter) in the training year. Coordinated by SSgt (SSI) Gopal and the It hasn’t been all exercises and detachment maintenance event Senior Planning Officer, OC 4 (Military Training) though. LCpl ‘ETL’ Chapman recently organised a Tp function Squadron, it was a great pleasure to host this year’s GCC on to the Poole Greyhound Stadium. This was enjoyed by all, Saturday, 31 May 2014 on behalf of the Commanding Officer. especially Cpl Pete Allen who collected some big winnings Phase 2 soldiers led by section commanders (JNCOs mainly (ssshh, don’t tell the Mrs!) LCpl Rob Owen organised a BBQ from Tp Cpl and Upgrader courses) represented 2 and 3 which was well attended by Tp members and their families – Squadrons and vigorously competed with an each other and our Tp Staffy, SSgt Stevie Ware received his Joint Forces throughout the day. Commander’s Commendation for his deployment last year on Op HERRICK 18 (just a 3* Commendation to go with your 2* The aim of this competition is to provide soldiers from the and 1* hey Staff – but still no LSGC???). Regiment an exciting and challenging military skills exercise, to enhance their leadership, teamwork, physical robustness and confidence.

The event was comprised of 9 different military training stands which were divided into 3 control points (3 stands were grouped to a control point that was manned by a control point IC) to ensure that section rotation was carried out effectively), testing participants on various basic soldiering skills. 27 sections were released from a control point to see various stand ICs where sections were given a maximum of 1 hour to complete each task. The day was run as an inter-section competition, with all sections being awarded points throughout. The Squadron with the highest average point score won the overall competition.

A total of 234 soldiers took part in the event and were split into 27 sections, each section consisting of 1 x JNCO and 9 x phase 2 soldiers. In addition to this competition there were various visitors from the Squadrons as well as external SSgt Ware receiving his Commendation agencies throughout the day. A total numbers of 400 personnel were present for the event which comprised of directing staff, visitors, participants and team medics. The Troop has had a lot of departures recently and with it has Accompanied by the Regtl 2IC the chief visitor of the day from gone a lot of heavy relied upon expertise. We say goodbye to The Worshipful Company of Information Technologists was Cpl Stu Jones who by now should be on the BATUS plains, Cpl immensely impressed to see the professionalism, dedication ‘Big’ Bruce who popped to the other side of camp to 15 Sig and teamwork that our soldiers were demonstrating. Regt and LCpl Jay Usher to 21 Sig Regt. Last but not least, we say a farewell to Capt Martin Gauntlet who has moved on to All of the lads and girls were in very good spirits throughout become the RSO for 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards – good the day, and showed considerable grit, determination and luck with that Boss! enthusiasm in approaching the competition. Collectively working as a team or section all soldiers involved in the SCTT - by SSgt Gopal Saru competition had the mind set to do well and win.

Senior Command Training Team (SCTT) has had another The competition was considered to be well organised and run extremely busy but hugely successful year by delivering 6 as safely as reasonably practicable. On completion of all Regular and 2 Reserve Royal Signals Senior CLM courses. activities WO1 (RSM) C Hoggard took the parade for the SCTT has significantly developed the ‘’best practice military Regiment to carry out the presentations. The CO, Lt Col instructor” ensuring that students are fully mentored, Brookes, presented the following awards: coached and guided at all times. 4 (Mil Trg) Sqn has adopted RMAS agile instructor methodology to place students in the * Best shot of the day - Sig Philpott. centre of training and create the best environment for * Best Section – 11 Section (3 (Harrogate) Sqn), led success. It is evident that the student pass rates have by Cpl Rai. significantly increased and as a result 144 Cpls have passed * Best Troop - Beaufighter Tp, 2 (Catterick) Sqn. and have been awarded substantive promotion to Sgt. * Champion Squadron - 2 (Catterick) Sqn.

The current SMI, WO2 ‘O Kill’ Kelly, who is known as ‘’the After the presentations, a curry was served by SSgt (SQMS) policy man’’ has been the main driver to employ the agile Stratton and his team. The bar was manned by SSgt Stewart instructor model and also making sure that the CLM courses and his team. After a long day enduring non stop activity, we deliver adhere to the policies and are evaluated correctly. soldiers were notably exhausted and ready to go home. Effective evaluation improves the quality of what we do, Having received positive feedback from all participants and increases the efficiency in how we do it, determines the visitors it was evident that this year’s GCC event was

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 15 national groups using the German decision making process, the best solution was chosen and briefed via VTC to our counterparts in Blandford and Rennes.

The Wednesday featured a DCCT-like shooting simulator in the morning, where the British contingent dominated, followed by a hike/climb up a 500m tall, near-vertical mountain in Oberammergau. The evening activities included a surprise magic show at a restaurant and more sampling of the Bavarian beverages.

Thursday saw the second planning exercise, a continuation of Tuesday’s exercise. This time the aim being to figure out a way for two German battalions, a French battalion and a British battle group to operate in the same AO and share information about the battle space. Again, this culminated Gordon’s Cup Best Shot – Sig Philpott in a VTC in which each signal school presented their solution to the other two. Maj Brisgen gave a back brief at the end thanking us for our hard work and stating that he was very pleased with the outcome of the week. Friday arrived and after a few hours spent enjoying the sights of Munich, we said our goodbyes and thanked our hosts and the French delegation for an excellent week of practicing interoperability.

French Contingent - by 2Lt Cantell

The week in France followed the same timetable as those for Blandford and Feldafing with presentations and planning exercises, but on the Wednesday everybody got a taste of PT, French style, with a 14km coastal run. Whilst the views on the run were spectacular it was the end of this long PT session which will stay in everybody’s memory for a long time... A Gordon’s Cup Best Section – 11 Sect cool down comprising of white wine and oysters is something to be considered for many runs in the future and perhaps at the end of all PT sessions back in Blandford! unquestionably a great success. May I take this opportunity to thank everyone (Squadron Commanders, Stand ICs, At yet another PT session, a showcase of rugby talent was internal and external agencies) for their support and kind displayed by Lt D Brent who knowingly or otherwise confused assistance in making this event a memorable one. the opposition adding to the intimidation instilled by our very own Kiwi, 2Lt L Kuizinas, who performed an impeccable 5 (MARESFIELD) SQUADRON rendition of the Haka.

OC Maj C Lewin The week was both enjoyable and enlightening, particularly SSM WO2 (SSM) M Ellis towards the challenges of communications interoperability. Much was gained from all contingents with a lot to take away Exercise TRIODE: 18 - 23 May and develop in years to come including some good international friendships. Germany Contingent - by 2Lt Lumby UK Contingent - by 2Lt Walker Sunday 18 May saw a delegation from the Troop Commanders’ Course travel to France and Germany to begin Ex TRIODE, a Meanwhile in Blandford, it fell to the remaining Officers of week-long international exchange between the Army Signal TCC88, from Kuwait, Oman and the UK, to host visitors from Schools from Britain, France and Germany. Feldafing and Rennes for the week in Blandford. Monday was devoted to presentations from each of the countries, an The delegation to Feldafing was greeted on the Sunday interesting opportunity to discover the similarities and night by their German host, Maj Brisgen, who possessed differences between the constructs and capabilities. Tuesday a surprisingly dry sense of humour which rivalled even 2Lt morning started with an incredible display of German Sumner’s. efficiency in marking up maps in preparation for the comms planning exercise phase! Eventually a workable plan was Monday was a day of briefs from each of the nations on the reached and presented that afternoon via VTC to the other structure and general capabilities of their armies and their contingents in France and Germany. The evening was a more signal corps. After this rather serious day we took a cultural relaxed affair with dinner at the Crown Hotel in Blandford visit to the monastery of Andechs which also had a traditional town hosted by the Commandant, Col M Fensom. Bavarian beer garden. Here, the international relations work began as we got to know the German and French delegations Wednesday morning at the DCCT range proved the French to before the planning exercise the next day. be better shots overall. Whereas in the afternoon a quick volleyball tournament was used to decide the Nation’s best The main focus of the exercise was comms planning, athletes; the Germans being the eventual victors. interoperability and the problems that arise from it. On Tuesday the first problem was issued to us: deploy two Thursday was the second portion of the planning exercise. German battalions into a troubled area of Kosovo in such a Immediately problems were highlighted in terms of the way that we could provide the best communications coverage interoperability of equipment and the differing approaches in of the AO. After tackling the problem in three smaller multi- how communications are facilitated at these levels.

16 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Eventually a solution was put forward using a combination of Meanwhile crossing borders into Germany, 2Lt Kuizinas had equipment that would provide a reliable comms network. made the arduous journey from Rennes, France to Oberstorf. The plans were briefed over VTC to France and Germany After an even more arduous journey through the beer where different solutions were produced. The evening’s gardens of Munich, 2Lt Sumner also arrived in Oberstorf for entertainments started with a BBQ before moving on to the start of a week-long Rock Climbing Single Pitch Bournemouth to show everyone what the town has to offer. Foundation (RSF) course at ATC Bavaria.

Come Friday the group took a trip to Portsmouth and a more The course consisted relaxed morning giving the French and Germans the of an introduction to opportunity to shop and look around the waterfront. climbing techniques Exercise TRIODE 14 offered an excellent opportunity to work and rope work with the French and German Signal Corps and gave us our developing into first opportunity to work in a multinational environment. leading and gear placement towards Exercise TIGER DOWNHILL - Adventure Training: 26 - 30 May the end of the week. - by 2Lt Lumby Situated in the German Alps, Ex TIGER DOWNHILL was a week of mountain biking in south climbers are spoiled . On Monday 26 May we arrived at the very quiet for choice of crag. Maindy Barracks in , home to a number of reserve units Unfortunately 2Lt including 3rd Battalion The and Cardiff University Sumner and 2Lt Officer Training Corps. Kuizinas were also 2Lt Sumner and 2Lt Kuizinas spoiled for choice of coffee at the indoor climbing walls due to bad weather. All the group enjoyed success at improving their climbing grade from day one, culminating in a final day of hard lead climbing, with 2Lt Kuizinas pushing hard and demonstrating the safety gear with a dramatic fall from the final move of a tough overhanging route, saved by the attentive belayer 2Lt Sumner. Both are now looking forward to developing their skills and returning to complete Rock Climbing Leader Training (RLT). Tuesday morning we went to collect, Football Course - by 2Lt Cantell fit and test out our bikes. This first Also moving towards qualifications 2Lt Cantell developed his day we split into 2Lt Lumby football coaching experiences and education in Devon where two groups and a number of new drills and tactics were learned. headed in opposite directions along the river Being an avid supporter it was a great end to the from the trail centre to meet week on Friday evening being able to visit Wembley in the approximately 7km away at another final home friendly before the World Cup 2014. Whilst the centre. From here we tackled a mild football was enjoyable it was the paper planes flying through but lengthy climb to the top of a very the stadium which caught the eye of most people watching windy blue route called Blue Scar. This the game, including that of a Peruvian player on the pitch 2Lt Gillespie route brushed away the cobwebs who received a paper plane to the face. With a recognition ready for day two’s routes. that the modern game is not only about football itself, there was an introduction during the week to on and off pitch Wednesday saw the groups tackle different routes, White’s essentials such as health and safety guidelines, emergency Level and Y Wal. 2Lt Wood’s group tackled White’s Level and first aid and avoiding and recognising injuries. The week was within 10 minutes of starting the steep climb 2Lt Patterson both educational and enjoyable. had snapped his chain. 2Lt Gillespie put in a heroic effort and freewheeled down to the bike shop, exchanged the broken Race The Sun - by 2Lt Ciborowski chain and caught the group again before the rest had reached the top. This difficult climb led to an equally difficult but On 29 May 2Lt Ciborowski participated in the Race the Sun infinitely more enjoyable downhill trail. 2Lt Wood showed off competition held at 2 Signal Regiment, York, representing the her skills by trying to steer in mid air after a jump, only to end HQ Royal Signals and CD Info team. Competing in both the up with cuts and bruises up her leg after she fell off her bike. Run/Bike and Cycle Orienteering events, the day proved to be Everyone enjoyed this route and showed vast improvement a long and wet one. Setting off last in the Run/Bike leg, the from day one, especially 2Lt Walker who hadn’t ridden a bike only way was up as 2Lt Ciborowski ran the 7km then battled for 10 years prior to the exercise. up the A19 on bike against a howling headwind trying to make up as much time as possible. The other group, lead by 2Lt Miskelly, tackled Y Wal with no injuries and also enjoyed the long flowing single track His work was all but complete as he had to transfer over to downhill section of their route. On Thursday the groups the start of the cycle orienteering event. Again, starting last swapped routes and again, 10 minutes into the climb up only this time due to having the last number in a staggered White’s Level a chain snapped forcing 2Lt Macaulay to go start, he started well by correctly taking the right instead of back to the shop and up the mountain again. After a total of the left which left other competitors in a pickle later on. The three days biking, saddle sores galore, 10200 calories burned checkpoints included finding the name of a pub, the and 72km covered, every person on the exercise had telephone number in a phone box and the name of a church. improved their mountain biking skills, thoroughly relishing in Finishing well under 1 hour, it was time well gained for the the challenge of getting up the mountains and surviving the overall team time where they finished 9th overall, despite rapid descents! their minor unit status.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 17 Ex CATTERICK CULMINATION III 16 - 18 May 2014

In the fast and furious trade environment of 11 (Royals School of Signals) Signal Regiment, the CATTERICK CULMINATION exercise series provides the Communications Systems Operators of 2 (Catterick) Squadron with the opportunity to deploy into the field on their first large scale exercise. Designed as a versatile training vehicle to develop agility and leadership through the application of military skills, it follows a flexible format in order to introduce the Phase 2 soldiers to military training they would Sig Cullen-Harrison not normally experience in the initial training environment. practising “fast-roping” down buildings This iteration of the exercise was chosen to be an introduction to FIBUA. The exercise consisted of over 200 Phase 2 soldiers, led by Phase 3 soldiers and members of the Troop Commander’s Course operating in the FIBUA environment of Copehill Down Village (CDV), Salisbury Plain Training Area.

Travelling out by Chinook, the exercise provided a day and a half in which to train the soldiers in an excellent urban environment at CDV before consolidating them with a Squadron level Battle Exercise. The training stands were led by members of 2 Sqn’s Directing Staff, consisting of ground sign awareness, room clearances, a Defended house demo, explosive method of entry, manual methods of entry, fast-roping, urban CASEVACs, vehicle anti-ambush drills, a Molotov cocktail range and an Urban Confidence Course.

The Signaller’s Perspective - by Sig Savage and Sig Martindale – Rhino Troop

The round robin of stands began with ground sign awareness, where the emphasis on being here to learn and improve our skills started to settle in. Instruction on how to spot inconspicuous marks on the ground and the information that can be garnered from them Deploying into Copehill Down Village combining acute observation tips was different and interesting. Moving onto BCD/CASEVAC which we believed may entail some form of battle PT was really rewarding making us think on our feet creating a realism factor when trying to extract a casualty from a FIBUA house. Just because you can climb in through a window doesn’t mean you can carry someone else out of it! The defended house stand was like “Home Alone” on steroids; it would be nightmare to attack a building and gave us greater appreciation on how difficult FIBUA can be, especially if someone with an evil mind had had time to prepare it first.

The first chance we got to fire our weapons was on the vehicle anti-ambush drills stand with SSgt Gaz ‘SC’ Stewart, which was very challenging. We all gained valuable experience we can use to build upon our personal contact drills. Keeping with an exhausting yet rewarding culture we moved onto the Manual Entry “Rhino rig” stand where we are proud to say Sig McCallum achieved the fastest time within the company to smash though the house. These timings ranged from 2 to 8 minutes, as the challenge of breaking down doors, even with rams and sledgehammers was much more difficult than anyone thought. Hollywood has clearly been lying to us every time they make a movie. The house clearance stand gave us a fair appreciation of how skilled you have to be to fight in the 360 FIBUA environment, and how hard it is to maintain command and control as our IC Sig Martindale experienced.

Broadening our experience further we moved onto the Molotov cocktail range, where we found out Sig Sidwell is missing a throwing arm as he couldn’t even hit the tank, a mere 10 metres away. The confidence course, which was basically a hardcore PT session running though Sgt Booth overseeing manual buildings, tunnel systems and climbing over roofs had been playing in the back of our minds since entry drills. we first saw it. Sig Harrison found he was petrified of heights and needed 20 minutes to cross the set of beams between two houses with the OC Sqn right behind him.

Pushing though the day we moved onto the explosive entry stand, even though we have all seen various videos/movies you cannot appreciate the noise and blast unless you witness it in real life. It was a good experience being moved closer to the blast after each charge until we were within 8ft and Sig ‘Demolition’ Doyle had the honour of clacking off the charge. Last but not least we moved to the abseiling stand which Sig Harrison was not particularly looking forward to due to his fear of heights, he was however very courageous, demonstrating the values of the soldier.

Sig James leading room clearance drills The first chalk boarding Chinooks at FOB Thorpe 18 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Ex CATTERICK CULMINATION III 16 - 18 May 2014

The Section Commander’s Perspective - by LCpl Ennis – Beaufighter Troop

This was the first time on an exercise where I was put in-charge of a group of soldiers as the section commander. It was good experience for when I get to my field unit as I could see the responsibilities and duties of a section commander, and appreciate the difficulties concerned. It was also great experience to be Sig Reynolds escorting a able to receive a brief and then hand the orders down to the guys in my section. captured Cpl Milburn

In particular it showed that I needed to be able to lead a section of men, not just from the front, but also from the middle and the rear. The confidence course was a huge challenge, and really pushed the boundaries of people’s comfort zones. Some soldiers found out that they were claustrophobic during the underground tunnel obstacles so I found I needed to stay with them and ensure they got through, which forced me to adapt my leadership style in order to assist them.

Working with the other section commanders as well was good experience as I could see how they ran their sections, especially the ones who had participated in more “green” exercises and training than I had. This was especially important with the preparation for the main FIBUA assault on the final day.

Having received a set of Quick Battle Orders and moved round to the FUP, we were held there by WO1 Wells who called in support fires and smoke. The Demolition Baseline during urban veh anti- Safety Officer helpfully provided these with plastic explosive and smoke grenades, ambush drills. which really set the scene for the assault and provided brilliant realism as we crossed the Line of Departure.

During the assault, it was quite difficult at first as I was told that as the section commander I couldn’t get into the actual fighting part but had to step back and give orders while the section proceeded through the building. It was confusing at times as there were orders being shouted and spoken over the comms, SITREPs being sent back and of course shooting and explosions going on around; it all got overwhelming but after a while it got easier to know what to do.

When our section was tasked to make entry into the third building and clear the bottom floor of the third building we decided that we were able to carry on and cleared the whole building. When one of our guys went ‘man-down’ we then had to The anticipation of a section also cope with a casualty, getting him out of the building but still moving through the stacked up ready to assault a building house.

All in all this demonstrated just how challenging it would be to operate in a FIBUA environment, the casualty rates and the sheer difficulties of command and control mean that it would be a major challenge for anyone. Although only an introduction it was all really good experience and the section enjoyed themselves as well throughout the weekend. Sig Rooney bouncing casualties Sig Gurung defeating an armoured off trees veh with a Molotov cocktail

The first chalk boarding Chinooks at FOB Thorpe Rehearsing Explosive Methods Of Entry on enemy compounds THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 19 NEWS FROM FORMATIONS

11 SIGNAL BRIGADE

Comd Brig Greg Wilson leaves for Corsham and will be replaced by a number of civil COS Lt Col Jamie Balfour servants. Comd Sgt Maj WO1 Mason Normandy 70 - by Capt Gareth Davies Preparations for the formation of Headquarters 11 Signal and West Midlands Brigade continue apace with the issue of the ‘Veterans first’. Implementation Order enabling DIO and others to really up their game from ‘somewhat indifferent’ and ‘slower than On 6 June 1944 some 156,000 allied personnel invaded Nazi glacial’ to the more positive ‘surprised that there is a larger occupied France. Whilst the action of that day did not end HQ expected to be in Donnington before 2015’ and WWII, it did serve to precipitate the ending of the war. It is suggestions about perhaps some sort of sponsored car wash estimated that some 4,000 allies died in the opening day of to raise the funds required. Thankfully the West Midlands the invasion and each year, those veterans who are able, RFCA have been much more proactive and involved and have return to remember their fallen friends and colleagues. agreed to assist with our temporary solution while DIO look for their one sock. The new FTRS structures for the combined Seventy years on and with numbers of veterans dwindling, HQ have been agreed while the civil service posts are being the Normandy Veterans Association has announced that they mapped across over the summer. These, with the help of will be disbanding later this year after retiring their standard. APC, have started seeing the new HQ establishment getting The significance of this year’s programme of commemorative populated with the HQ’s overall head count increasing 3 fold events was therefore given a greater weight and the profile to almost 140 including our Reservist staff. of the events could not have been higher with the attendance of several members of the Royal family including Her Majesty Arrivals and departures continue as part of these changes. the Queen. Capt Dave Smith departs to be an OC HQ Coy shortly, while the BEME, Capt Simon Holmes, leaves for DE&S to be 11 Sig Bde was charged with the responsibility of providing the replaced by HQ 143’s BEME, Maj Gary Feek, as part of our new communications to the UK military participation in the regional and Bde ES Branch. Capt Charly McNelis, SO3 G1, Normandy 70 events enabling GOC FTC to exercise command

Members of the New Forest Branch of the Normandy Veterans Association at Bayeux Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery

20 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Two generations of communicators - SSgt (YofS) Law with a R SIGNALS veteran and control over nearly 2000 UK military personnel deployed down and the levels of international diplomacy rocketed – led to France over the period. In addition, they were to provide by WO1 John ‘Franglaise’ Attwell and using the linguistic an event planning team for the international event at Sword talents of Lt Josh ‘LT’ Ingold the veterans began to arrive. It beach. These tasks were delegated to 2 Sig Regt who, to was inspiring to meet the veterans who regaled us with their nobody’s surprise, ably stepped up to the mark and delivered stories from 70 years prior and were interested in our own very successfully on both counts. modern experiences; it was great to be able to assist them. Having ensured that all of the UK veterans who were The communications plan utilised the French mobile phone expected, had made their way into the event, more network to enable a Skype™ chat-room to be employed giving negotiation with the French authorities ensued which allowed a ‘J-Chat esque’ capability that ensured teams at all events us to occupy some spare seating at the back of the event. We were able to see the wider picture and understand issues in were therefore able to witness the event live which was near real time. This system further provided the supported thoroughly enjoyed by all. On completion of the event and commander with the ability to conduct conference calls with having ensured that all the veterans returned to their correct all outstations in order to receive feedback and provide bus and departed for the correct destination, the team direction. This solution proved to be very successful and returned, exhausted, to Caen. Army HQ is seeking to refine and develop it for future use in contingent operations. The team (Team Burdus) led by Maj It was fantastic to play a small part in the 70th anniversary of Anthea Burdus worked very hard to overcome some D-Day and to meet and assist some of the veterans of that significant procurement issues to provide a top service to the seminal moment in history. The team pulled together and user community. ensured that both the commander and the veterans received the required support throughout the period of 6 Jun 14 saw the 70th anniversary of D-Day and was commemorative events. commemorated with a series of events. The day started in Bayeux with a service in the Cathedral before another within Exercise ROMAN MATHETE - by Capt Rich Tudhope the Commonwealth War Grave Commission cemetery. Focus then shifted to Sword beach where an international ceremony Ex ROMAN MATHETE was an HQ 11 Sig Bde conceptual study took place led by President Hollande and attended by event held in London on 13 – 14 May 14. The aim of the event, numerous world leaders and heads of state. The day ended in line with GOC FTC’s priorities to ‘be a learning organisation’, with a further commemorative event at Arromanches-les- was to develop HQ Staff through the delivery of an Bains. intellectually stimulating debate and briefings at the House of Commons, and a guided tour of a variety of pre-20th Century A team from 2 Sig Regt deployed to the beach front at Sword artworks at the National Gallery. beach and following some delicate negotiations with the French Gendarmerie (including at least one threat of arrest!) With the merger of HQ 11 Sig Bde and HQ 143 (WM) Bde we were allowed to assist the veterans in entering through looming, the visit of HQ staff to Parliament to meet Daniel the tight security and moving from the road to the stadium Kawczynski (MP for Shrewsbury and Atcham) was intended that had been constructed on the beach. Whilst the sun beat to recalibrate the focus of the Bde staff from solely

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 21 operations to also encompass military engagement, when the lake was a tad chilly, but credit where it’s due he recruitment and the host of activities for which we will now managed to complete the swim and earned himself a well be held responsible. A group of HQ staff met with Mr earned rest after the gruelling swim. Kawczynski and were able to discuss the future relationship of HQ 11 Sig Bde and how we can provide influence at the Capt Miller was up next for the Bike Run to get back to grass roots and political level to the community. His aides Imphal Barracks from Castle Howard. There were some nice were able to provide an informal but intriguing guided tour of cheeky hills but he managed to get to the transition point to Westminster before allowing us access to the Commons then get of the bike and cramp up on the side of the road Chamber where we were able to spectate during an before managing to run it off a bit and get back to camp. interesting debate on education reform. The last event of the day was the Stretcher Race and the The following day, HQ staff visited the National Gallery for an Brigade team looked more like a veterans’ team with an informative guided tour of a number of artworks on display. average age of over 40, but Capt Roy Davies volunteered Of note, we were enlightened to the many facets of Francois- himself for the 2 lap to start with and then get on the Hubert Drouais’ ‘Madame de Pompadour at her Tambour stretcher and give the team a good start and then the long 2 Frame’ and John Constable’s ‘The Hay Wain’, an idyllic laps round Imphal Barracks with the stretcher with the team landscape scene portraying far more than meets the eye! coming in ahead of a couple of the Major Units. With only 11 Overall, the 2 days were an excellent opportunity to indulge in members of the team for the whole day it was a good effort both personal and professional development and enjoy the by everyone involved resulting in coming in the middle of the sights of London. Minor Units.

Race The Sun - by Capt Roy Davies Exercise HORSESHOE BUZZARD – by Capts Sam Smith and Paul Ukpai The day started with the usual early start ready for the first leg of the day and this year it was another new guy in the With 2 Signal Group (UK Ops) getting prepared for a busy boat with Capt Gareth Davies who, by all accounts, could do summer period of UK Ops including the Commonwealth with some lessons in how to steer his kayak. After Games, NATO Summit and the Invictus Warrior Games, Ex successfully completing his event it was then time for the new HORSESHOE BUZZARD 14 was designed to get the whole Bde YofS, WO1 (YofS) Dave Carter, who only started work on group together for a planning exercise. Focussing on the ICS the Tuesday and on the Wednesday was told he was not only Estimate and then operating as an Information Services doing the orienteering but then was told he was down for the Operations Centre (ISOC), the exercise looked to prepare stretcher race and then before setting off was told you're Regimental ISOC teams for future Ops and exercises. now doing the river run. On the plus side at least the YofS didn’t get lost on the river run like the 2 Sig Gp FofS last year. Regimental ISOC syndicates were formed from 37, 39, and 71(Y) Signal Regiments with 32 Signal Regiment Capt Sam Smith was then up next for the Run-Bike and after a simultaneously planning and rehearsing in Glasgow ready to good change over managed to pick up a few places on the deliver on Operation COMET. With over 60 Officers and run before he got to the transition point where his Pit Crew of Soldiers arriving on Saturday 7 June including Regular Cpl Nowell and Sig Luckwell got him on his way in under 2 mentors, enablers and floorwalkers, it proved a good turnout. minutes. Onto the busy A19 he went, managing to reel in a With a wide range of ability and experience levels within the couple of the competitors before handing over to SSgt Vinod syndicates, the teams worked together to both teach and Shrestha for the hill run. By all accounts the next couple of involve less experienced members and deliver timely output. team members put in a good effort with Cpl John Savage This is key in preparing the group to be agile and intelligent putting in a good shift on the forced march and Sig Freke when planning and preparing for UK Operations in the future, putting in a strong performance on the moor run before teaching key fundamental skills to the Reserve Staff. missing his transport for his swim. With a busy day of ICS estimate training complete, QM 37 Again this year the COS put himself down for the Half Signal Regiment and his staff laid on an absolutely Marathon in the hopes of completing it without injuring magnificent curry supper. Their life support for the weekend himself like last year and this year managed a better time. was much appreciated. As a result, at close of training, the This improvement in performance was all down to Cpl Nowell troops were able to relax and reflect on lessons learnt while waiting at the bottom of the last hill with a refreshing energy cheering the ‘3 Lions’ to victory in the pre-world cup friendly drink to help him with the final push up the hill. match against Honduras.

Sig Luckwell then got onto his bike to tackle the next Early doors Sunday 8 June, the ISOC teams formed in the mammoth leg in the 24km MTB through the nice bit of North syndicate rooms to play out their plan from the previous day. countryside with the weather not knowing what it With the training phase complete, a consolidation exercise wanted to do. It meant the track was a bit sticky all the way tested the robustness of the plan and the team in dealing round before finishing with the nice little climb up to the with a series of simulated events. change over for Capt Roy Davies to set off and tackle the fell run. The team continued to put some good legs from Maj Ian Post exercise, a review of key lessons was conducted by SO1 Flannery and WO1 (YofS) Dave Carter on his second event on UK Ops, with a lively panel discussion focussing on some of the forest run and the orienteering before Capt Dave Smith the challenges faced by Regiments transitioning to Army endured the cycle orienteering before the dreaded swim. 2020. The wide-ranging session provided the transition team with useful insights into the effects of the transition The swim was the event that Sig Freke was least looking programme at both the personal level in terms of individual forward to with no one in the team having seen him since career aspirations and on the often-unintended consequences before the moor run. Maj Kirk was worried he might have to for readiness and capability. do an event. Sig Freke managed to get to the start after the organisers managed to sort his transport issues just so he Ex HORSESHOE BUZZARD proved to be an extremely could endure the delights of an open water swim. Having worthwhile training opportunity for Comd 2 Signal Group to decided to do it just in a pair of Speedos, someone took pity train, develop, share best practice and gather some useful on him and gave him a swim cap which didn’t really do much feedback on progress made with transition programme.

22 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 NEWS FROM REGIMENTS

1st (UNITED KINGDOM) ARMOURED DIVISION HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL REGIMENT HERFORD

CO Lt Col JG Hill RSM WO1 (RSM) DJ Mears

200 SIGNAL SQUADRON

OC Maj N Pryce-Jones RSM WO1 (RSM) G Revell

24 Hour Charity Squash Event – by Sig Jones

On 7 May myself and 7 others (Sgt Shone, Sgt Gore-Rowe, Cpl Rudkins, Cpl Denton, Sig Jones, Sig Kent, Sig Cawthorne and Sig John-Teye) took part in a 24 hour squash event starting, at 7am. The competition took place in Normandy Barracks Squash courts.

The aim of the event was to play squash continuously for 24 hours and raise as much money as possible for Royal British With the local Fish & Chip van strategically placed just outside Legion, in total we raised close to €800. Squash is a fast the camp gates, a change from the usual BBQ went down a paced game and can very easily leave you exhausted after just treat. The turn of the weather meant the bouncy castle could a few games. now be inflated, and with the children occupied the evening could finally get into full swing. After the Bingo and a few Between the eight of us there was a variety of skill sets, there more shandys the charity auction went ahead with a were a couple of players who had little experience and then tremendous result. There were many items to be auctioned there was Sgt Gore-Rowe who was unbeatable, not losing a including a day off, a late start, and a get you out of PT chit! single game. We all played around 100 games each in total. The OC and RSM of 200 Signal Squadron came to visit us and However the big thanks goes to LCpl ‘Gaz’ Ewen who paid joined in for a couple of games and for our efforts, or more €185 for the privilege of being the RSM for a day. A task that taking pity on us, the OC treated us all to pizza to lift morale. I’m sure he will be successful. By the time the event finished there were 8 physically With the evening coming to an end and only the die hard exhausted men who were looking forward to their beds. party goers remaining, such as WO1 (RSM) Revell, the OC, SSgt Cairns and a few others, the quiz came out which There was a trophy for 1st place, but we all knew who had covered just about every TV programme known to mankind. already won that.... Sgt Gore-Rowe. So the competition was to see who was going to be 2nd and 3rd. Cpl Rudkins took Apart from the weather being unpredictable as usual the 2nd place by his skill of drop shots (tapping the ball gently mood of the day was never dampened. Overall it was a fun when your opponent is too far away to return the shot). Sgt day with family members attending. A big thanks to Trion Shone and I were in fierce competition for 3rd place and we Kemp, SSgt Cairns and all that assisted with the set up of would often have banter off the courts about who’s going to what turned out to be a fantastic day. win. By 4am I was sitting in 3rd with quite a lead and poor Sgt Shone just didn’t have it in him to keep playing. We all put BA(G) Athletics 2014 - by Lt Mason everything we had into the event and it was a great success. Being stood down the following day and missing the RSM’s On 11 June, 1 (UK) ADSR proudly hosted the BA(G) Athletics inspection was also an added bonus. tournament at their local athletics facility, Ludwig-Jahn Stadium, kindly lent to us by the local authorities of Herford. SSAFA Charity Day - by Sig Cairns The athletics team consisted of 24 participants who gave it On 9 April 2014 200 Signal Squadron held a SSAFA Charity day. their all, in an attempt to qualify for the Army Championships The day was broken down firstly into a Sqn parade in the bar at Aldershot – which despite both male and female teams where Triona Kemp and friends sold tea, coffee and qualifying, we were unable to attend due to a busy FOE and homemade cakes. This was also a good opportunity to sell having personnel currently deployed on Herrick 20. raffle tickets for a long list of prizes that Triona had sourced from different organisations. Our female team put in an extremely strong effort coming in first place, beating all other teams from the Logistics and Following that the Sqn had planned a range of sports to keep Artillery. Special mentions go to: Cpl Jones (REME) for the morale going but the weather decided to halt the having a third lung and having endless stamina; LCpl Turnbull proceedings, which meant normal work for the remainder of for successfully representing as team captain and the afternoon. However the SSAFA Charity day had a second participating in loads of events and Sig Farrell for displaying wind and everyone was back in the Bar by 1600 (just as the true determination in the 400m relay after having suffered a sun came out) where the drinks started to flow nicely in time fall on the 100m sprint. for the Bingo which kicked off at 1700.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 23 tournament consisted of 8 different NATO nations, and over 30 teams taking part. The competition tests various military skills comprising of shooting, marching, navigation and general military knowledge to name a few.

The team consisted of Lt Archambeau, LCpl De Main, Sig Matthews and Sig Musgrave, who rose early for a 0700 start time, which was tough for some after an eventful night watching the Holland v Spain game with a Dutch and American team.

Our favourite stand required us to control civilians passing through whilst there was an IED threat. The scenario was controlled well with LCpl De Main and Sig Matthews keeping the agitated crowd at bay, whilst Lt Archambeau and Sig BA(G) female athletics champions Musgrave provided over watch and the searching of civilians one at a time. With only one British team having conducted it quicker than ourselves, which the Germans were happy with, The male A team also put in a strong performance, finishing however their tactics would’ve made front page news! fourth overall with Sig Taylor putting in an impressive long distance running effort beating all those he went up against; All in all we had a fantastic time, being afforded the Sig Jammeh being the fastest sprinter of the day in all the opportunity to beat 16 Signal Regiment for best British Team events he competed in and Sgt Winfield (REME) displaying an and converse with other nation’s armed forces from reserve impressive ability to throw heavy stuff a long way coming to active personnel. There are more German military run second in most of his events. events happening later this year, and more information can be found by contacting: [email protected]. As for the male B team, last place was a consolation prize for having taken part and getting a day out of the garages! I personally think this could have been turned around, had I been able to lead this glorious team to victory!

201 SIGNAL SQUADRON (ROG)

OC Maj Stannard 2IC Capt Davidson

Herrick 20 Deployment Party

Sig Randall, Sig Goulding, LCpl Nevison and Sig Davis of 201 Signal Squadron, were tasked as a works party under 211 Exercise BATTLEAXE SKILLS 2 – by Lt Johnston Signal Squadron's SSgt (YofS) Simpson. The task; to set up for the Regimental Party on Friday 16 May. We had to set up Deploying on Sunday and bank holidays has become the norm the Parade Square for a humungous event prior to troops for 211 Signal Squadron as we prepped our range kit and deploying on Op Herrick 20. signed out our rifles and GPMGs to head down to Haltern Training Area. The first couple of days were hard graft for us. It took 3 hours to set up 2 marquees, then the hard part of setting up 7 18x24 The week started with a static zero range and quickly tents (which included stitching 12x12s). Wednesday and progressed onto conducting ACMTs. Once everyone had Thursday our efforts were spent fine tuning, in order to be successfully qualified their static ranges, they were able to ready for the Party, decorating the tables –in the Corps progress onto more complex LFTT shoots involving fire and colours of course, finishing off the stage with Union flags and movement with each other in separate lanes – under the lining the tents with decorations. On the big day the weather watchful eyes of our experienced NCOs. These consisted of a was perfect. Warm, but not too warm. Entertainment was Close Quarter Battle lane where Sig Hopley and Sig Matthews laid on for all of the Regiment’s soldiers and families. This impressed Sgt Buckle with their quick reaction times and included dodgems, a live band, a DJ provided by BFBS, beer good use of cover; as well as an IBSR package which had tents and children’s entertainment. The day lasted long into section commanders re-enforcing troops in stage 3 trenches the evening –as did the warm weather- and everyone enjoyed with their man power and controlling the fire of supporting themselves. The CO in particular enjoyed the dodgems! weapons such as the GPMG with Fire Control Orders whilst attempting to repel an encroaching enemy attack. It was the perfect send off for the deploying troops, and great for the rest of the Regiment to let our hair down. An excellent week away from the Regiment, Sig Matthews walked away with the prize for Best Shot and LCpl 211 Signal Squadron McLaughlin with the prize for Best Soldier. OC Maj Swift 2IC Capt Loots

NATO International Mönchengladbach Military Competition 2014 – by Lt Archambeau

On 14 June, 211 Sig Sqn submitted a team of four personnel to participate in the International Mönchengladbach Military Competition organised by German military reservists. The

24 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 2nd SIGNAL REGIMENT YORK

CO Lt Col Hargreaves assisting 17 Port and Maritime RSM WO1 (RSM) Stephenson Regiment with their RLS despite having little sleep from Normandy 70 – by WO2 (SSM) Gibney the night before.

Pre Deployment: The Headquarters was fully established by 4 Jun and the Its seems so long ago when 4 members of the Regiment communications detachments deployed on the first Recce for what affectionately became were deployed to Ranville, know as “Op UNCERTAINTY” in Caen France to support the Bayeux and Arromanches. Normandy 70 celebrations. The technical team included WO1 Sigs Gopal and Robin where (Regt FofS) Landregan, SSgt (YofS) Si Law, SSgt Jase attached to HMS Bulwark Sheehan and this was headed up by OC Support Squadron, which was heading for the Maj Anthea Burdus. They considered all manners of Normandy coast to ensure a communication systems but settled on a purely commercial reliable network across the system using Skype as a mock J Chat to provide an all region. informed chat room. This was not the usual HQ build, as officers were presented with Apple iPads and smart phones The chat room worked to use as their primary means of communication, a far cry Capt Bryant at the Maj John incredibly well providing every from the usual big green radios they were used to seeing. Howard Memorial user with real time situational awareness. The system was With the communications plan in place, all that remained to incredibly robust, the only be done was to book accommodation for 70 soldiers, drive to issue at the main International Event when certain Heads of France in 9 vehicles and collect a rogue Padre and an State showed up with their ECM equipment switched on. Our Interpreter on the way. Not forgetting our most important operators had already planned for this and were able to keep task, which was to assist British Veterans during the communicating throughout, a testament to their hard work International Ceremony at Sword beach. The RQMS and Sp and professionalism. Much to the surprise of SSgt Jase Sqn SSM where given this task; assisted by MT’s SSgt Sheehan who had configured and issued 45 smart phones, 23 Molyneux. After a lot of head scratching, phone calls, emails iPads and 15 Laptops, all the equipment was returned on time and the use of Sgt Wilkes’ ‘limitless’ GPC card; the plan was and undamaged at the end of the deployment. afoot. International Event – Sword Beach Deployment: The second phase of 2 Signal Regiments’ involvement at The advance party declined the limited speed of a 55mph 8 Normandy was the task of assisting British Veterans during hour drive to Portsmouth and took the easier option of flying the International Ceremony on Sword Beach. This was a to France, leaving the RQMS and SSM to bring out the main French led VVIP event with many of the worlds Heads of State body of communicators. It seemed that NATO Travel Orders, in attendance. ID cards and Passports weren’t good enough for the Brittany Ferries staff so the GPC card was deployed yet again as Sgt The RQMS was the lead for this event and ‘Mr Beach’ was his Wilkes led negotiations. We screeched onto the ferry with assumed pseudonym for the day. Members of the Regiment minutes to spare, resembling a scene from the Italian Job. were eagerly waiting for the 6 Jun to arrive with one key Concurrently to our movements, a communications message in their minds - ‘Veterans First’. It was a slow start to detachment from 246 (QGS) Sig Sqn were preparing to head the day which grew hotter by the minute, with soldiers down to Portsmouth to board HMS Bulwark where they positioned along the coach reception area hoping for lots of would remain for the duration. British Veterans to arrive from the Cathedral service in Bayeux. Once the coaches started to arrive and things began Communications: to get frantic, it was time for the CO and RSM to head to the VIP tent. On occasion tempers flared and Lt Josh Ingold Once we arrived in Caen, the real work commenced and the stepped in on more than one occasion to save the day as the Command team set to work establishing the Headquarters resident interpreter. His ‘Allo Allo’ style half French, half and installing the communications. This was completed at English approach to communicating was a welcome delight to lightning pace and by the end of the first day, DII, Sky TV and the by now tired but high spirited soldiers and with the Padre telephones were all in and working with the primary not too far behind carrying his satchel of morale, they truly communications network starting to take shape. Members of where the dream team. The Veterans made it in time to see 246 Sig Sqn deserve a special mention for their efforts in the Queen and President Obama arriving and as an added bonus, members of the Regiment managed to sneak in to watch the ceremony which ended with a spectacular fireworks display.

With the ceremony over it was time to leap back into action and ensure the Veterans were returned to their transport. Chaos reigned as the coaches arrived in a haphazard fashion and even the French didn’t appear to know what was going on! Thankfully Cpl Sorley-Wilkinson was on hand to take 2 Signal Regiment at Normandy 70 charge of the situation and began to organise things on the

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 25 ground. Members of the Regiment worked tirelessly until in Caen. With our kit unloaded, the taskings began. The first every British Veteran had been reunited with their respective two days involved setting up the FTC HQ, after that we coach. I lost count of the number of grateful family members deployed to respective tasking locations where the events that thanked us for the assistance of 2 Signal Regiment and 32 were going to be held. Having been issued our comms kit, Signal Regiment personnel, who conducted themselves our aim was now to provide information updates back to the impeccably and were a credit to their Cap Badge. HQ. These updates included VVIP arrival time, event starting time, VVIP disposal time as well as aiding the Veterans and supporters welfare. During the event there were only a few difficulties with the communications, this was due to poor signal strength. However, we were able to overcome this problem and provide the necessary information.

The RSM meets D-Day Veterans

We barely had time to catch our breath before the RQMS scooped us all back out for a Battlefield tour. We took in the sites of Pegasus Bridge and learned of how Maj John Howard’s audacious assault with the men of the Oxfordshire Sgt Wilkes meets a D-Day Veteran and Light Infantry was key to the success of D-Day. We also visited Le Grand Bunker – a German stronghold where the enemy were able to direct heavy It was inspirational to see the number of veterans and artillery onto Sword Beach from the Merville Battery. The supporters that made the journey to France. With locals and complexity of the plan for the D-Day landings soon became school children cheering and waving their country's flag with apparent when trying to fit all these intricate pieces of the huge pride, supporting the veterans and remembering the puzzle together. We would have liked to spend longer taking fallen. We could clearly see how much they respected what in the Battlefields of Normandy but time caught up with us our veterans had done for them. The crowd looked in awe to and it was soon time to head for the Ferry home and some see freefall and Para jumps as well as fireworks displays at well earned sleep! Ranville, Sword beach, Bayeux and Arromanches. On 7 Jun most of the events had finished and we started to Overall Normandy 70 was a resounding success, only made withdraw to Caen to prepare for returning back to UK. Prior possible by the hard work and determination of all those to leaving France, we quickly dismantled all the Comms links, involved. The Normandy Veterans Association will lay down packed up and paid our last respects, visiting various their standards later this year due to many of its members battlefields. Although it was a short tour to Normandy to being too frail to travel. Normandy 70 was the last official act support the event, it opened our eyes to what our veterans of remembrance; a sad but fitting way to remember all those have sacrificed for this country and its people. who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and it was an absolute privilege to be part of it. The battles our veterans fought are engraved in our hearts, never to fade away. The history they wrote will always be Normandy 70 - by LCpl Tshring Dhandu Sherpa there with us, to remember the sacrifices they made. If we turn back the pages of history, we will never miss the war in D-Day, an operational name that in itself strikes up numerous Normandy, the D-Day. It proved the saying “obstacles do not emotions; from sadness to fear, pride and respect, loss and exist to be surrendered to, but only to be broken”. triumph. We remember the courage and sacrifice our brothers in arms showed on that day on the 6 Jun each year. This year’s remembrance was a particularly special day as it was the 70th anniversary of D-Day. To mark this occasion many leaders from across the world gathered in Normandy, France with special events planned to commemorate the occasion. A small team from 2 Sig Regt had the honour to be the part of celebration.

To celebrate this anniversary there were series of events in and around Sword beach, Bayeux, Arromanches, Ranville, Benouville, Pegasus Bridge and Caen. The Regiment's contingent were mainly there to provide communication and information updates to the FTC HQ based in Caen. Primary means was Skype data network using iPads, with a secondary means of Tetrapol radio and the tertiary being satellite phone.

We deployed to Normandy on 31 May via Portsmouth harbour. After about six hours we reached our base located Sword Beach Commemorations

26 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 3rd (UNITED KINGDOM) DIVISION HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL REGIMENT BULFORD

CO Lt Col P R Griffiths Cleared communication sites became very congested with RSM WO1 (RSM) M Stowell both RITA (FR), Falcon and Bowman nodes co-locating. Overall the integration of UK and FR personnel was better This has been a busy period for the Regiment with focus on than anticipated with the FR being gracious hosts. two key events; Exercise ROCHAMBEAU and Normandy 70 commemorations. Interoperability

Exercise ROCHAMBEAU – by WO1 (FofS) Moore The interoperability on Ex ROCHAMBEAU was the culmination of two interoperability trials conducted in Jan 14 at the LSRC Exercise ROCHAMBEAU was the culmination of testing and and the second in EMF 1 camp Besancon, France. The LSRC experimentation between France and the UK, initially in trial was led by CD Info with contractor support in contrast to Blandford, and then in Besancon, France using BCIP, SICF and the EMF 1 trial which relied heavily on the Regiment. the Tactical Network Gateway (TNG). The main effort for 3 Interoperability achieved with SICF was email with (UK) Div HQ and Sig Regt was to successfully introduce a full attachment, J-Chat, SharePoint and Shared Situation range of interoperability between UK and French systems. Awareness (via MIP). This entailed the passing of email, formal messaging, chat, collaborative working and the current operating picture between UK and French CIS systems.

The solution

Ex ROCHAMBEAU was the first opportunity to deploy the entire Regiments Falcon fleet in a Wide Area Network (WAN). The WAN provided by 206 Signal Squadron connected the 2* CJEF LC HQ with the subordinate Bi-National Support Group (FR/UK) and 12th (Mechanised) Brigade across 70km using DLOS BIV radios, Bowman HCDR, a FR provided E1 and Satcom between CJEF and 12th (Mechanised) Brigade.

Ex ROCHAMBEAU Interoperability

Central to the interoperability plan was the TNG. The TNG enabled interoperability between BCIP 5.5 and SICF (FR OpsCIS). In addition 206 Signal Squadron enabled BCIP data tunnelled over Falcon. The ability to interconnect puddles of Bowman with the high capacity Falcon network and interconnected bearers proved to be fundamental to the success of Ex ROCHMABEAU. This interoperability could help Ex ROCHAMBEAU Wide Area by overcoming the range constraints of Bowman data until eHCDR is fielded, and enables Bowman over Satcom, a vital capability depending on the operational theatre. Deploying a WAN in a contingency environment, overseas, with a coalition partner, provided some unique challenges. The key limitation on interoperability was cultural, not Bowman planning proved complex in a dynamic environment technical. The staff were unable to fully exploit the technical with unknown requirements. We quickly learnt that flexibility solution due to unawareness or inability to articulate their and growth capacity needs to be included in the plan at requirements. Staff CIS/ICS training and IM processes are conception, as once implemented in a wide area it becomes central to successful interoperability and will be key in any significantly more difficult to update. future deployment.

Falcon proved far more adaptable to plan but suffered from a 206 Signal Squadron, based in Mouremelon – by Lt Tom Eaton lack of nodes available to the Regiment. Due to terrain constraints all WASPs had to be deployed in order to form a 206 Signal Squadron deployed in full supporting a 30% inject mesh otherwise we would have little redundancy and no of UK staff into a French divisional headquarters. This flexibility to move the network once deployed. The French involved the deployment of Bowman, Falcon, Reacher, used Satcom and civilian infrastructure to overcome the Housekeeper, DII(LD)S and a UK SECRET VTC. terrain, only using their trunk system to connect local units. The Squadron had over thirty five vehicles in support of the To aid C2 and sustainment Falcon nodes were co-located with exercise in order to both support the main headquarters and Radio Rebroadcast detachments. This proved to be very provide Bowman and Falcon wide area communications down useful and reduced the strain on the Bowman crews who to 12th (Mechanised) Brigade. We deployed five Falcon were operating on 12-hour shifts for nearly 5 weeks. WASPs and seven Bowman RRBs to provide communications

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 27 across an area of over 3,200 sq km, including a full HCDR It wasn’t all work though as we managed to conduct a network. This is the longest length of time many of the cultural visit to the battlefields of Verdun, where we visited soldiers have spent deployed out on hilltop sites which has Fort De Douaumont, trench systems, and the destroyed been a significant learning experience for them all. SSgt Jim village of Fleury. Later on in the local town we all had some Allen and Lt Meg French spent a lot of time driving from food and a few drinks. detachment to detachment ensuring people knew their jobs and got their mail! We ended our cultural experience weekend with a visit to a champagne house in Epernay, where we were shown around While the Headquarters deployed in vehicles, Maj David the distillery which was underground in a cave. It was good Spencer, OC 206 Sig Sqn, and Maj Brian Jeffery, OC 228 Sig to get out for the weekend but we knew we would be back to Sqn, chose to travel in a less conventional way by cycling the the grindstone on Monday. entire 430 mile route. This took five days through British and French countryside with plenty of stops to sample the French cuisine and hospitality. Both were looking quite tired by the time they arrived at Mourmelon!

Working with the French was an interesting and enjoyable experience. While presenting a number of technical and procedural challenges the time spent in France has demonstrated how ready and willing both nations are to achieve success. The soldiers enjoyed the challenge immensely and many of them are looking forward to working in a coalition environment again.

228 Signal Squadron, based in Mailley-Le-Camp – by LCpl Laurie Brown

Deploying in usual Army fashion - at the crack of dawn - over 228 Sig Sqn’s new Forward HQ 80 vehicles of different variations from the Regiment set off for France. The journey to Dover was long but well executed and the fears of looking like Dad’s Army on the move were As the staff settled in all personnel involved gained an put to bed with only one of our vehicles breaking down excellent working relationship and shared their knowledge (although that vehicle did break down twice!). On the ferry and experiences with the French. Making the most of our the soldiers were told they could spend their CILOR allowance time here we set up a new forward HQ concept under on food, some were under the impression that meant only armour. Unexpectedly this was used by some of the staff sweets and chocolate. officers in addition to the main HQ so they could enhance the training value of everyone deployed. Arriving finally at Mailly Le Camp we proved we could deploy our kit and equipment and successfully establish an armoured Support Squadron, based in Mailly Le Camp HQ overseas. This is the first time 3 (UK) Div HQ and Sig Regt – by SSgt Henry REME has done this in about 10 years. With 12th (Mechanised) Brigade HQ’s primary communications system being Bowman Prior to deployment 228 Signal Squadron fitter section we also integrated Falcon and Housekeeper along with the became the proud owners of a Fitter Section in a Box (FSiAB) French equivalents to provide a much richer service to courtesy of Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group Ltd. This Brigade Staff for the first time. This was linked to the was to be the first use of FSiAB in a peacetime environment, scenario which was designed to imitate us being in a location and our home for the next six weeks. or theatre for a prolonged period. The FSiAB took only 2 hours to fully deploy and was soon put As per usual our chefs provided us with excellent food, even to test both inside and out with the onset of ever changing offering a Man Vs Food challenge, which consisted of a tray of continental weather. The facility incorporates many features ribs, chips, coleslaw and onions. Sadly the only person to such as onboard compressor complete with air tools, pillar complete the challenge was a French soldier, his prize was to drill, grinding wheel, air conditioning and lighting, all run of its be the first man in the dinner queue for each meal. own built in Huntington generator making us completely self sufficient. A REME home from home!

Running concurrently with the setup phase of Ex ROCHAMBEAU 3 (UK) Div HQ and Sig Regt were utilised by the Trials & Development Unit to aid in a Recovery Interoperability Trial (RIT). The purpose of this trial was to develop and share understanding of both nations recovery equipment with a view to future deployments together. Our recovery crew were tasked with providing SVR support for the RIT which was to be held in Mourmelon-le-Grande France.

As Cpl Clayton and LCpl Richardson were both Class 1 Recovery Mechanics their combined experience and knowledge was vital to the success of the trial. The trial was split into four different areas:

1. Compatibility - would our UK recovery equipment be able to recover French assets for normal towing, route clearance and in an 228 Sig Sqn personnel on a battlefield tour emergency?

28 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 2. Mobilisation - what mechanical We spent the first few days on a battlefield tour following the components would be required to be removed or 3rd Infantry Division’s progress on D-Day. We began the tour adjusted to facilitate the recovery without further with the prelims of D-Day at Merville Gun Battery, then onto damage to the vehicle? Pegasus Bridge, the objective of the 6th Airborne Division. We visited and ordered a coffee from Madame Gondree, who 3. Emergency crew evacuation - locations of runs the café by Pegasus Bridge. She was a small girl when all emergency hatches and correct emergency the bridge was taken, and has remained here to run the vehicle entry. family’s café “Café Gondree” ever since.

4. Basic vehicle familiarisation - would the Moving on to Sword beach, we followed the 3rd Infantry recovery crew be able to stow equipment such as Division step-by-step, inland towards the Hillman site in cranes and winches if no French assistance was Colleville-Montgomery, which put up fierce resistance, but available. was eventually taken; with Caen liberated some months later.

The trial tested eight B vehicle platforms and two A vehicle We finished the battlefield tour by looking around some of platforms, all with varied results. The trial as a whole was a the heavily fortified German defences at Point du Hoc. It was great success with many of the French assets compatible with amazing to see the huge numbers of craters left from the our own equipment. bombs dropped by the allied forces are still there today. The tour was eye opening, enjoyable for all and enthusiastically Exercise IRON TRIBUTE, Normandy 70 delivered by SSgt Daz Clough and Capt Jens Gronn, putting – by LCpl Ansell and Sig Parkinson into perspective the herculean task that the 3rd Infantry Division had been given. Friday 6 June 2014 marked the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy. On 2 June 2014 a group of soldiers The fascinating days were followed by some excellent nights from 3 (UK) Division Headquarters & Signal Regiment left out in Caen, and some not so excellent Karaoke by Sgt Alex Bulford and travelled to Portsmouth, where we caught the Mitchell! More importantly it gave us a chance to meet some ferry to Ouistreham to take part in memorial services and of the D-Day veterans and their families, who had travelled to commemorations, staying in the historic city of Caen. This commemorate their achievements and those of their fallen was the main D-Day objective of the 3rd Infantry Division, comrades. Perhaps for some of the veterans it would be their which had been tasked as the assault division to land on last visit so we all felt very privileged that we had the Sword Beach. opportunity the meet them and hear their stories. We were accommodated at the University of Caen’s campus for the week in their halls of residence. Being only a short As the anniversary grew closer our work began. The first walk from the town centre meant we were able to enjoy the parade was at the British Garden of Remembrance, Caen, facilities and amenities in the local town. We took a great during which members of the Regiment laid a rose in front of deal of pleasure in sampling the local cuisine and beverages the memorials to the 15 British Divisions that took part in the on offer Normandy Campaign. This was followed by a colourful during our Beating the Retreat attended by the Normandy veterans. down time, The second parade was a ceremony in front of the sculpture discovering to the 3rd Infantry Division outside the castle walls in the some centre of Caen whilst the piper played from the castle fantastic ramparts. restaurants and bars! The On D-Day itself we attended the memorial service in front of atmosphere the 3rd Infantry Division Memorial at La Brêche (Sword with the Beach) followed by a march inland to the village general public of Hermanville, where French schoolchildren sung the French was and British national anthems before laying flowers at the feet extremely of headstones in the British cemetery. friendly and there were On our last day in Normandy we had two final parades to many other attend, both of which were disrupted, first by a Spitfire flying The British Garden of Remembrance, Caen Allied Army overhead and the second by a Lancaster! After the last units visiting parade it was a quick dash to the port for our ferry home. the town to socialise with and share stories. The weather was a bit It was a real honour to be a part of the 70th anniversary temperamental at first, completely drenching us a couple of proceedings and I’m sure that next year we would all be times during one of our battlefield tours, but thankfully it delighted if we could do it again. cleared up and was warm and sunny for the parades.

202 Girls with one of the 3DSR veterans The recreation of Swifty Ashore The final parade in Periers sur le Dan

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 29 10th SIGNAL REGIMENT CORSHAM

CO Lt Col EA Dallyn MBE and forth as he stated how they will be fine as long as you RSM WO1 (RSM) JA Garner don’t tinker with them or KICK them. Clearly not conducive with MATT 9! The remainder of the morning was spent Exercise BRUNO KNOWLEDGE 1 looking round excavated trenches and going through normal – by Sgt Connor (243) and LCpl Whittaker (225) working routine in the trenches.

10 Signal Regiment recently organised and executed Ex The afternoon was spent looking at the battle of Mesen 1917, BRUNO KNOWLEDGE over the period of 31 Mar to 3 Apr 2014, where magnificently long tunnels were dug to lay tons of with the purpose of commemorating the beginning of World explosives under the German lines. No easy feat in the clay War One and also looking at the leadership challenges which fields of Ypres as our guide further elaborated. The Battle of were faced by the Officers and Soldiers of the war, by Mesen was also where the Germans first used gas, to some partaking in Battlefield studies and a wreath laying ceremony success, though after both sides had had some own goals. on the final day at the Thiepval memorial. The CO, Lt Col On visiting Hill 60, the opportunity was taken to make Dallyn MBE, and WO2 (RQMS) Heathcote, along with other members of the Regiment adorn various gas personal Officers, SNCOs and JNCOs were also in attendance, from protection equipment as the development of the gas was different Squadrons within the Regiment. explained using various exhibits.

The first stage was to get from Corsham to Calais via the Euro After this we briefly stopped at the Ljzer-Leper canel at Essex Shuttle. Once we had arrived in Calais we set out for our first Farm, where Lt Col John McRae wrote In Flanders Fields. Battlefield Tour of the week around the Ypres Salient which With this poem in our minds, we moved to the nearby was called First Shots and 8 Brigades battles. This consisted Commonwealth Cemetery where a 15 year old Rifleman, of our Military Historian, Maj (Retd) Tim Saunders MBE, Valetine Sturdwick is buried. His story is quite outstanding, guiding our Tour of the Battle of Mons, where we were after being injured for a first time he returned to France to briefed at several different battlefields about the events of 23 fight again, at 15 and knowing what he was going back to; Aug 1914. This covered information from the Units on the brave just doesn’t seem enough to describe him. From the ground fighting that day to the Soldiers and Officers who looks on the faces of the school kids we shared the cemetery were awarded various Military awards for their actions. The with for that hour, they too must have been deep in day was rounded off by a visit to the St Symphorian contemplation over this. We then moved to the Passchendale Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery where the museum where outfits were adorned with those of the UK government will hold a centenary commemoration of Tommy and the Hun, weapon systems were handled and World War One on 4 Aug this year. bayonets and entrenchment tools were swung with vigour. There is something to be said about a Gurkha soldier dressed On day 2 we travelled to Ypres, where many famous battles as a German soldier complete with “spikey” hat and all. took place and the one we focused on was the Battle of Gheluvelt, where The 2nd Worcestershire Battalion had The long day was brought to a close at 2000 hrs with the last broken the German offensive by using bayonet offensive post ceremony at the Menin Gate, Ypres and the laying of the tactics, even though the they were massively out numbered. wreath by members of the Regiment, followed by some children from New Zealand on a school trip performing the Later we also visited different memorials such as the Hakka to the 1000 or more onlookers. memorial for The London Scottish (TA) Regiment situated just outside of Messines. Another site was the memorial for the Day four started with shameless calls of “OC Sir, can I carry Christmas Truce (Treve de Noel) where the Allies and your bags to the bus”, by SSM 243, WO2 (SSM) Tony Raby, Opposition called a cease fire for Christmas day which is shame on you. The day was spent around various battlefields widely regarded as a symbol of peace and humanity amongst on the Somme discussing attacks and counter attacks, such terrible acts of war. We also saw the area in which successes and failures. We stopped at Ulster Tower Moreland Winston Churchill commanded the 6 Royal Scottish Fusiliers and took time to reflect on Rifleman Billy McFadden who won during his time in the War. the VC diving on two hand grenades to save his comrades. Both the day and the tour concluded with a group photo and After the day's events the final stop was to visit The Irish the wreath laying and a few quite moments of reflection at Peace Tower. The site was built in 1998 to commemorate the the Thiepval Memorial where names of 72,000 fallen, wounded and missing Irish Soldiers of both World Commonwealth soldiers are listed, whose graves are Wars. The first two days had built a basic knowledge of the unknown on the battle fields of the Somme. early events of World War One while building up to following events in a chronological order. 225 SIGNAL SQUADRON

Day three started with the OC 243, Maj Nick Wood, dragging OC Maj G Johnston his bags up to reception to check out, only to be told he was SSM WO2 (SSM) MJ Hepworth 24 hours early. A belated April fools joke on reception? On boarding the coach we moved onwards to our first stop of 10 Sig Regt CO’s Rugby 7s & Sportsman’s Dinner the day, the Barvian wood, more precisely White Sheets – by Cpl A Hilton Ridge, where the Germans held the high ground for much of the war and a one Korporal Adolf Hitler won his first Iron The Rugby 7s team from 225 Sig Sqn (ECM(FP)) was selected Cross. Still, all this was soon put out of our minds as we from the vast abundance of experienced and available departed the bus to calls from our guide to mind the traffic personnel within the Sqn. As a result the team ended up and gather round two World War One UXOs lying next to the consisting of a few relatively inexperienced youngsters mixed side of the road. A few glares of concern were shared back in with more experienced old farts!

30 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Arriving in Aldershot the night before the event, we were Bletchley Park - by Sgt Beesley treated to 5* accommodation - camp cots! On our arrival at the Rugby pitches the following morning it became apparent On the cold morning of Tues 25 Mar 14 the four person strong that we had brought the legendary NI weather with us, as we contingent from 225 Sig Sqn (ECM(FP)) witnessed the famous chuckled watching an 18x24 get blown across the pitches. Northern Irish Sunrise in order to catch the ‘red eye’ flight back to the mainland for the 10 Sig Regt management day at After a somewhat heated and emotional 7’s tournament the Bletchley Park. results were in, we managed a humbling 3rd place out of 4, at least we weren’t last! Not a bad effort for a team of new players and pensioners! However the tournament wasn’t without its dramas, with an injury (weakness) preventing SSgt (FofS) Roger from even attending due to a broken nose! Cpl Frost was flattened in the first game following a brilliant try down the right wing, which left him with a large egg shaped swelling above his eye and LCpl Ryley suffered a fat lip from a well placed tackle. It wasn’t just the junior ranks that took a beating though, with SSgt (YofS) Falinski managing to get laid out for a good sixty seconds. WO2 (SSM) Hepworth would not allow me to submit these notes without a mention of his hat-trick of tries in the final game, rounded off by an 80m sprint for the try line (Dad run!). Sgt Gunn and SSgt Parker enjoy ‘A good porking’

After a couple of hours of “admin” (drinking) we boarded the transport to take us to the Emirates Stadium. A delightful After an uneventful journey we met the rest of the Regiment drive through London at rush hour was a rare gift! As in the grand foyer of Bletchley Park and began our tour of the someone that has no interest in football at all, it was a tedious grounds which, luckily, started outside where we were and unfortunately dry sixty minute tour of the Stadium; I was thanked for bringing the wonderful Irish rain. After getting a however assured from keen football followers that it was a little damp we entered the museum to see some hidden gems pretty big deal! Following the tour we were free to attack the of the amazing work that transpired some 70 years earlier, buffet which as you can imagine, was rapidly destroyed! Next with SSgt Parker and Sgt Jones seeming to have a ‘tech off’ up was the Sportsman’s Dinner Awards Ceremony that saw trying to get their heads around one of the full scale replicas several sets of Sports Colours being awarded to our Sqn. of the Turing Bombe, which was a huge electromechanical These included: Capt Allen, Capt Dixon and Cpl McGlade. device about the size of an old Ptarmigan Truck used by British cryptologists to help decipher German Enigma machine The ceremony included a guest speaker, an old Arsenal player encrypted secret messages during World War Two. called Charlie George who certainly had a way with words! At 00:30 hours the bar was unfortunately closed and we boarded Having worked less than a mile from Bletchley Park for over the transport back to Aldershot. All in all a decent five years and now seeing some of the great history so easily experience, and one which was educational too. I had no idea accessible, it’s highly recommended and was a great place to that the Corps took part in so many sports. bring together the whole unit.

Horse Riding - by Sgt Al Beesley 10SR Football Corp ‘Plate’ Semi Finals – by Cpl Harker

After a seven year absence from the Province my first With the Regiment being knocked out of the main Wednesday in work was, well not strictly in work; horse riding competition we were entered into the Plate. We were drawn in the lovely countryside of Ballymoney to say farewell to our away against 16 Signal Regiment, which meant Road Trip. beloved 2IC, Capt Emma Allen, who would be departing for the beautiful grounds of Cambridge OTC. With a great Players assembled at Azimghur Barracks (21 SR) on the turnout from the Sqn and the arrival of the CO, Lt Col Dallyn, morning of Tuesday 27 May for the long drive to Elmpt via and WO1 (RSM) Garner we headed on our merry way chasing Aldershot to pick up the rest of the squad. Once the team the rare Northern Ireland sunshine. On arrival we were issued was complete we headed off for the Eurotunnel for the epic our fetching velvet helmets and riding boots then put into drive across Europe and with some bad music pumping out of groups of riding ability where we were matched up with our the speakers from Sgt Matthew Campbell, it made the horses and, for some, ‘beasts of doom’. After a warm up ride journey even more painful. We arrived in the early evening through the gorgeous fields to shake out and overcome and once accommodation was sorted we headed out for food nerves we were all placed into teams for a spot of horse play and then Shannon’s bar for some light refreshment, but not in the paddock. too many as it was a big game the next day.

It became quickly apparent that even though the RSM was in Match day arrived and we had a light training session on the the novice group he had found his inner cowboy, trotting morning just to shake out the travel from the previous day away without a care in the world and almost bringing his and also for the management to get his final starting 11. team to victory, with a bit of rule bending. To decide the winning team Sgt Kelly Tweedie and Sgt ‘Bennie’ Hill had a Kick off arrived and with a rousing speech from the manager break-dance saddle off, to which one was left eating dirt and (SSgt Richie Partridge) in the changing room, we headed out the other performing like a ballerina in record breaking time. onto the pitch. The game was end to end with some amazing saves from the new addition to the team in the form of Cpl After a great day out and feeling a little saddle sore all the Andy Harker. The match ended 1-1 and extra time was seniors were invited back to Maj Johnston's house for a slap required. Extra time came and went and with some shocking up curry and the worlds hottest chilli accompanied by copious defending the score ended 3-3. Penalties loomed. amounts of cake and a beer or two. After getting smoked out over the garden fire pit, it was time to say farewell to Capt Toss of the coin meant 10 Sig Regt were taking their penalty Emma Allen who will be sorely missed but will always part of first. In it went 1-0. Up stepped 16SR. Shot taken and hit the the Ghostbusters. post, still 1-0. 10SR then made it 2-0. 16SR came again for

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 31 their 2nd penalty – SAVED by Cpl Harker. 10SR up again, 3-0. weeks before the Force Troops Command Operational 16SR finally hit the back of the net to make it 3-1. Decisive Shooting Competition (OSC) in Sennybridge Camp, but penalty now for 10SR and up stepped Cpl Harker straight out started slowly due to the minibus taking an unplanned detour of goal and Boom 4-,1 game over. The team then decided to en route from Colerne… play “all pile on” and nearly crushed Cpl Harker, who was at the bottom of the pile. Once the firing got under way the task facing the training team (SSgt Kenny Campbell and Sgt Jim Wright) became Everyone then showered and changed and into the Wall and apparent. It was safe to say the standard was well below Willow for some exceptional hosting by 16 Sig Regt and a well what was needed to compete in the competition! However, deserved beverage for all. Once the evening activities had through hard work and sheer determination, the whole team ceased and everyone had a good night’s sleep it was time for zeroed to their weapon and shooting began to improve. the long drive back to UK and with some sore heads aboard, the journey was pretty quiet with nearly everyone asleep for Day 2 saw running introduced ias well as shooting (just to the whole duration. make life easier) as the competitions involved movement as well as fire. The initial run ended with Cpl Connarty falling 10SR Corps Rugby 7s – by Cpl Harker over and, due to the competitive streak of other members of the team, no one stopped to help, leaving him with a few cuts On a lovely May morning members from the Regiment and bruises! As the week wore on a vast improvement was descended upon Cardiff for the annual Corps 7s Rugby seen with the shooting of the whole team, and due to some Tournament. With members of the Regiment here, there and outside commitments only 12 people were left available for everywhere the morning of the tournament was the first time the team and as that was number needed for the that most people had actually met each other. competition, no one could be kept in reserve.

The groups were drawn and 10 SR were against 22 SR, 14 SR We moved back to Colerne after the training in Sennybridge and 21SR (B) teams respectively. The games were going to be was complete to focus on learning the shoots that would be 7 minutes per half with a one minute half time. There were 4 involved in the competition. This gave us a chance to enjoy a magnificent trophies on offer for the day. As only 8 teams team bonding night, so we went for a meal and a few social had entered, half were going to end the day with a trophy. drinks. However, Sgt Jim Wright failed to mention that running was involved the next day and there were some less Our first game was against 22 Sig Regt which was a hard than happy people! fought game as both teams were fresh and ready to go, but the outcome was only going to go one way, which was a victory for ourselves. So first game down and nerves were slightly settled. The next game was even harder as we were up against 14 Sig Regt. Even with the buzz of winning the first game we succumbed to a defeat to the Tournaments eventual champions. The final game in the group was against 21 Sig Regt B. This was a must win game so that we could progress into the Plate Final. With defeat not an option we didn’t give the 21 SR team a chance and we were running in try after try.

Lunch time arrived and the scores tallied up the results and the fixtures for the afternoon games were announced. 10 Sig Regt had landed 18 Sig Regt as both teams finished 2nd in their respective groups. This was for the Plate.

The final game was upon us and sadly for the Regiment it was one game too many, with 18 SR running in 4 tries to our 1. The overall outcome was that we came 4th on the day, which The team converting rounds to empty brass… is not bad considering most had never seen each other let alone, trained together before. The Friday before the OSC the team travelled up to Pirbright 241 SIGNAL SQUADRON to try a few of the ranges that would be used and finally put practice into action. The shooting that we had worked on so OC Maj HC Cairns much seemed to revert to pre-training standards, as the SSM WO2 (SSM) C Deal scores were nowhere near the scores attained in Sennybridge.

Squadron Update Monday came and with it the start of the OSC. Excitement and nerves had built within the team. Initially scores were With the upcoming move to Bicester Garrison, 241 Sig Sqn has lower than hoped, but as time went on scores improved focused its efforts on preparing its people and equipment. vastly and confidence within the team grew. Wednesday Paired with this Unit move is the Squadron's continued focus came and like the day before scores improved further and our on Ops and overseas tasks, as well as support to a variety of standing within the Corps teams rose sharply. other units exercises in preparation for deployment. Despite all this, most are looking forward to the move to Bicester and The most important shoots came on the Thursday with the a future home for the Installation Technician trade. obstacle shoot and the falling plates shoot in the afternoon. Once again, nerves set in as over 400 competitors were Exercise BRUNO HOTSHOT and the Operational Shooting watching both shoots. 10SR Team A were first to tackle the Competition - by LCpl John obstacle shoot and managed to get through unscathed and in a good time. 10SR Team B were next to go and a lack of 241 Signal Squadron deployed with a team of 15 willing confidence left Cpl Rodgers kneeling upon the floor but none volunteers on Ex BRUNO HOTSHOT which was renamed of the other team members were using him as a bunk over (unofficially) to “KENNY’S GUN CLUB”! Training began 2 the obstacles. However, 10SR Team C were to bring the

32 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 quite famous footballers. I was told some of their names but I can only remember Ginola, Mark Wright and I think it was ??? Dixon's names, like I said I’m not really a football fan, I’m sure if SSgt Dave Keen had been there he could have named them all. There were then other people I’ve seen on the tele who kept popping over to say hi, wanting to take selfies of me, the cup and them. I don’t get the whole selfie The team setting off on a movement element of the OSC thing, perhaps SSgt Sharon Keen can explain it to me biggest laugh to all spectators. The first two obstacles sometime, not that I was weren’t a problem for Team C, but once Cpl Dave ‘Gimley’ complaining when some Taylor reached the high wall, cries of laughter were heard girls band wanted in on the from the crowd when he couldn’t quite make it. action. Unfortunately for Team C this cost and they timed out. Once the ground started filling up the atmosphere and Following the obstacle shoot it was time for the falling plate tension in the tunnel started building up too. The players and first up were Teams A and B. Unfortunately both teams looked a bit nervy as they filled past us (I was quite surprised were knocked out, with Team A just being edged out on the how short a lot of them were, I suppose its only to be final plate. All was not lost as during the presentations that expected because when I think of the likes of SSgt Micky night Cpl ‘Sunny’ Sunnawar walked away with best pistol Partridge and SSgt Chris Sankey, who are my only good shot. Despite not winning overall, the team developed well footballing buddies as they are virtually dwarfs too). over the course of the competition and look forward to next year's challenge! I have to say that the noise when they went out was impressive and when the national anthem was sung it was FA Cup - by SSgt Sherratt pretty inspiring and Leona Lewis looked “gooooood”. I’m not going to do a match commentary but some blokes scored It came as a great surprise to me to be invited to do this some goals and it dragged on into extra time which meant presentation job as those who know me know my level of even longer standing around waiting to take the cup sporting knowledge isn’t vast. In fact when I was asked to do “upstairs”. Once it finished and Arsenal won, I whipped off some football thing I very nearly turned it down. After the old Hull ribbons from the cup, some bloke in a suit checking the internet I discovered it was football match pointed out to me that it was the red and white ones which between Hull (which I am told by Sgt Craig Larkins is “The needed to stay on and the black and orange ones that had to Mighty ULL”) and Arsenal (who I am told by Capt John come off, which could have been embarrassing. I stuffed the Thompson play in Red) at Wembley (which Capt Jim Roberts ribbons in my pocket, grabbed the stuff and bombed up the informed me is in London). stairs and boy were there a lot! I was blowing by the time I got to the top, so more phys required eh SSgt Kenny As it turned out a lot of people got quite excited by this and Campbell. There was time for a quick deep breath and then for the entire day my phone didn’t stop going off with texts stampy stampy marchy marchy, not quite up to your standard all reading “Don’t drop it”; so thanks all, especially Capt Alex WO1 ‘Red’ Davies (a Mech attempting drill, never a pretty Mitchell for reminding me of this from his first text at about site), then out onto the Royal Walk with a TV camera right in 0800 to his last one at about 2200. my face trying not to laugh.

My big job for the day was to hang around the tunnel in We then headed back down the tunnel. Some of the sweaty uniform “guarding” the cup and base, followed by taking the footballers skulked off into one of the dressing rooms, some base off the engraver at the end and carrying it up to the of the other sweaty footballers were jumping around spraying royal box for “Wills” to hand over to the winners. champagne and singing with all the associated hangers on. So I got changed back into my civis and headed home, The day started with bacon butties and a Costa coffee, stopping for another Costa on the way (other coffee brands followed by a quick extra rehearsal carrying the gear out into are available eh Capt Chris Swann, the next brew is on you). the Royal Box, like walking is hard. After the 4th rehearsal I had pretty much mastered walking. We were then shown to Brunei Garrison Infrastructure Surge Task - by Cpl St-Pierre our changing room which was right between the Arsenal changing room and Leona Lewis’. It was nice, proper fridges In early April 2014, a group of men from 10 Signal Regiment filled with bottled water, sandwiches, crisps, cake, chocybars deployed to Brunei on a two week surge task. The team was and fruit, enough even to get rid of SSgt ‘Alfie’ Garnetts headed by Cpl St-Pierre from Hotel (Bruggen) Troop. The munchies and certainly better than a normal Army death box. main tasks to be completed were the fibre backbone cable Unfortunately we then had to leave our phones and cameras replacements, totalling six. These fibre optic cables were the in the changing rooms so my plan of getting snap happy went backbone links for the DII cross site connection between the out of the window, sorry SSM Chris Deal, no photos of Warrant Officers and Sergeants Mess and Medicina Lines, as footballers for you, but I’m sure you can find photos of well as Turker Lines. A total of 3.5 km of multi-mode fibre sweaty men rolling around with each other on the “net”. optic cables were installed between the various departments.

During the match build up there were 6 or 7 guys in suits who The task ahead was extremely challenging as the majority of came for a bit of a chat in the tunnel, as it turns out they were the work was to be outdoors in extremely hot and humid

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 33 The tail-end of the team had made up good time and finally we hit Gloucester. Sgt Andy Poole physically hit Gloucester, falling over at a round-about onto the bike of FofS(IS) Rich Vernon (repaying the favour from earlier). A quick group picture and a bite to eat saw the cycle back to Bristol continue. Unfortunately the afternoon session proved more difficult on the legs and morale than that of the morning session. The sun relentlessly continued to beat down and the conversation had slowed to the odd game of eye spy and numerous shouts of ‘are we there yet’. With more hills taking their toll on tired legs the last 30 miles seemed to take forever with the final 10 miles taking even longer.

Heads were down and teeth were grinding with every turn of the wheel. Turning left at a junction with a sign saying 8 miles to Bristol resulted in the teams morale disappear with sheer determination taking over. Riding up the last hill and turning Cpl St-Pierre (241) and LCpl Williams (81) showcasing Regular/ into the stadium the team was greeted with applause and Reserve integration cheers; we had made it with no injuries or punctures. Seeing the early starters already changed, there was time for a quick weather conditions and as a result extensive health and safety team photo and the handing out of BRUNO BEAR BIKERS briefs (the joys!) were given to each team member and local T-shirts. Realising that Maj Nick Wood had the wrong size instruction was provided prior to the project commencing. T-shirt, it came to light that Sgt Andy Poole had completed the event with Maj Woods’ Large’ T-shirt on. This was happily Due to health and safety concerns, a minimum team size of 2 swapped for a nice fresh clean top and thankfully it was then was specified in exceptional circumstances, nevertheless the time to pack up and head home. Money continues to roll in team members mostly worked in two main groups. There and hopefully our efforts will be rewarded with a reasonable was a maximum surge size of 5 during the initial phase of the donation to both charities. project but subsequently that number was increased to 7 as we were later joined by two additional team members from our sister reserve Sqn, 81 Sig Sqn.

The overall performance of the team was a success through hard work and determination. The task was completed within time and to a very high standard. Despite the challenges, we were able to persevere as we were a highly motivated team.

243 SIGNAL SQUADRON

OC Maj N Wood SSM WO2 (SSM) A Raby

Exercise BRUNO BEAR BIKERS - by SSgt (FofS(IS)) Melanie Vernon

It was a bright and early start on Sunday 1 June 14 and the Exercise JOINT WARRIOR - by Cpl Paul Abbott BRUNO BEAR Riders were packing their cars and vans with bikes, gel supplements and donning on their cycle tops, ready It was a cold wet Friday morning when we departed Army to make the long journey to Bristol Memorial Rugby Club Headquarters for Plymouth and the boarding of HMS hoping to raising money for the ABF and the Rugby club. The Bulwark, the Navy's flagship for Ex JOINT WARRIOR 2014. team of six were participating in a 105 mile charity cycle from Commander UK Task Group embarked in HMS Bulwark, Bristol with a round route through Bath and Gloucester. With commanding the UK Responsive Task Force Group (RFTG), the sun shining down on the stadium the team split with the For context , the RFTG is the United Kingdom's high readiness CO, Maj Wood and Capt Sillito taking the lead whilst Sgt maritime force, comprising ships, submarines, aircraft and a Poole and both the FofS(IS) Vernons still travelling from landing force of Royal Marines, at short notice to act in Andover. With registration complete, it was time for the response to any contingency tasking if required. In total, stragglers to make up some ground. Exercise JOINT WARRIOR was to involve circa 34 naval units (31 ships and 3 submarines) from the UK, US, Netherlands, Morale was high as the team rolled happily along clocking up France, Denmark, Turkey and Norway. the miles at a leisurely pace through some enjoyable flat cycle paths, incorporating an old railway line which we all agreed My journey started alongside 3 members of Fleet Electronic would be an ideal place to ‘train’. Cycling out of Bath had led Warfare Support Group (FEWSG) Petty Officer (PO) Jonny us to the bottom of the hill from hell! Faced with our first Fallon, Able Seaman (AB) Alice Hebditch and AB ‘Scouse’ Hill. mammoth ascent that seemed to carry on forever, getting The four of us took comfortable seat in our Navy issued Ford steeper after every corner, it was head down, grit the teeth Fiesta with two weeks of personal kit and equipment for a and feel the burn. We were finally relieved to see a group of two hour drive down the A303 to Plymouth. cyclists at the top taking a well deserved break. Thankfully there was also a mobile maintenance van, as clumsily FofS(IS) Upon arrival at Plymouth we were ready to commence the Rich Vernon decided to take this opportunity to fall onto Sgt boarding process. We quickly discovered that HMS Bulwark Poole's bike, bending the spokes on his back wheel! The cycle had already set sail to complete a series of sea trials for a to Gloucester saw us stop only to replenish water bottles and newly fitted component. We were informed that we would grab a handful of morale in the form of Haribos. This much be joining the ship later in the day along with CO 3 Cdo Bde needed rush of sugar kept us re-fuelled for our journey. and the Fleet Commander via Landing Craft Personnel (LCP).

34 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 After a very long leg stretch around RMB Stonehouse, we Once the Marines had been landed it was time to investigate made our way down to the jetty where we met the fifth the front ramp further. A technical fix was required and with member of our little team, LCpl Jimmy Large, a Royal Marine the help of a 6lb sledge hammer and an oversized spanner, Commando from Arbroath who had driven down to Plymouth the ramp was lifted enough to prevent further water ingress to meet the ship. and we turned for home. On returning to HMS Bulwark and now out of darkness, the full extent of the damage to LCU Once on board we were shown to our mess. This turned out could be seen. It was immediately declared U/S until a new to be the transit mess at the back of the ship, shared with the ramp could be fitted. rest of 3 Cdo Bde. They took great pleasure in showing a land lubber such as me the ropes on board. This included bed bags So, to summarize; my 36 hour adventure on the high seas (a stuff sack to store bedding in the event of hot racking (the turned out to be a 6 hour nightmare. Because of the rapid sharing of a bed during action stations)), rounds and anti flash advance of the Cdo group it was decided by Y Sqn RM (EW) drills (the donning of fire retardant IPE during action stations that the Inhibiting had done its job and was no longer to prevent flash burns in the event short duration flame required. My job over the next 36 hours was to remove the exposure and heat). The ship hadn’t even slipped its anchor equipment from the LCUs when they refuelled, in preparation and I wanted to get off! However, as the only Corp for extraction back to HMS Collingwood. representative on board I decided to make the best of it carving out a little corner of the mess where I could wedge The next day it was announced over the intercom that HMS myself to avoid falling over if we were hit by a rogue wave. Bulwark would be returning early to Plymouth due to a problem with the propulsion system which was still under We pulled into Faslane to take on G4 supplies including LCpl support contract. It was pointed out to everybody aboard Large's equipment. From this point we would be sailing at that we would still continue to support Ex JOINT WARRIOR action stations, this meant 12 hour shifts with all non essential from dock side in Plymouth. This meant that anti flash drills, equipment lashed down. PO Fallon was on shift in the comms fire drills, anti aircraft and vessel drills would continue at the room, AB Hebditch and LCpl Large were working in the J2 cell same pace but they would be notional instead of live. and with the departure of AB Hill due to family issues, it fell to me to learn how to use the inhibiting equipment. Over the next few days you could feel the whole ship slowly relax a little. This probably had something to do with the fact After several abortive attempts and a few RF burns I managed that the galley and gym were not heaving with Cdo’s, allowing to figure it out… Don’t cross the streams! My days were a little more space for everybody aboard. then spent perfecting the process and tweaking the kit to its optimum working level. During this ‘trial and error’ period With Ex JOINT WARRIOR complete, we were allowed down Capt ‘Chesney’ Johnson decided that it may be a good idea to the gangway onto dry land. I felt a little melancholy; I had play deceptive messages to the enemy at the point of landing. made new friends and experienced new things I had never He then locked himself in his office for 3 days and came up done before. Despite all of the ups and downs I had really with 2 messages that were to be played over the equipment enjoyed my time aboard… Not enough to consider a service as the Landing Craft Utility (LCU) hit the beach. We loaded transfer but enough that I would volunteer for next year’s the messages and sat back pleased with our work keenly JOINT WARRIOR if given the opportunity. waiting H hour. 251 SIGNAL SQUADRON Due to everybody else finding flimsy excuses, I was chosen from a cast of one to be the operator aboard the first wave OC Maj G Darke LCU. With 36 hours worth of kit and a heavy heart I boarded SSM WO2 (SSM) M Cope LCU 7. This lead LCU allowed me to control the other 4 inhibiting equipments lashed to the other LCUs. With the sea Squadron Update – by Capt Benjy Brown ‘pitching and rolling’ the flat bottomed LCU left HMS Bulwark to RV with the rest of the landing party 10 miles off the Having settled into Sqn life with apparent ease, Maj Darke has Scottish coastline. We RV’d with the other landing craft at the been focussing on getting his ceremonial dress into shape, FUP without incident but our luck stopped there. I was taking bulling and polishing lessons from OC 3 (London) informed over the radio that the messages we had created Troop, Lt Chris Gammond. WO2 (SSM) Cope has had no such had been rejected by a higher authority so I was not to play problems with this side of life and has been ensuring the Sqn them. This meant that I had to quickly rewrite the plan so maintain a balanced approach to both the ceremonial and that the Inhibiting equipment didn’t play the messages and military training. only played the barrages at certain times. With this done I sat back in the wheel house to watch the show unfold. The Sqn has been focussed on the build up to the spring/ summer ceremonial season, working at a number of the The first landing craft hit the beach on cue with the initial Queen’s Garden Parties and culminating in the State Opening serial coming to life. My joy was short-lived as the Tactical of Parliament and the Trooping of the Colour, high profile Radio reported the Dutch LCU had been a little over zealous events that the soldiers take pride in attending. in its approach and had beached itself. This meant we were now less an LCU until high tide could re-float it. This was Hot on the heels of the ceremonial season are a number of compounded by the second Dutch LCU disappearing from the exercises in support of the Technical Response Force, and radar screen presenting a significant problem. Fortunately we significant preparation for the upcoming Commonwealth found it 2 minutes later; unfortunately it was greeted with an Games, and support to the Invictus Games, an event where almighty lurch and screech of metal as LCU 7 collided with the injured soldiers from a number of nations have the chance to Dutch LCU. SSgt ‘Tug’ Gibbs, the LCU 7 pilot, quickly compete against one another in a variety of disciplines. deployed the engineer to assess the damage as he manoeuvred away. The initial report was not good. We had Inter-Unit Triathlon – by Lt David Seaton badly damaged the front ramp and were taking on water fast. With the report on the bleak side it was decided that we On 21 May a crack team of multi-discipline athletes assembled would make our run to the beach next to get everybody at 251 Signal Squadron to represent 10 Signal Regiment at the ashore before disaster struck. Royal Signals Triathlon Championships in Colerne. Despite the early start and last minute team changes, Sgt ‘Lymes’ Patrick

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 35 home for the next two days, and the females were put up in the squash courts, but found out later that they actually had hot showers, so we think there was some sort of conspiracy on 2 Signal Regiment's behalf by trying to make our living conditions as uncomfortable as possible to give their team some advantage.

Then the morning of the race arrived, and it was a 0500hrs start for our budding Kayaker Sgt Andy Poole. SSgt (FofS) Cadogan, Capt Benjy Brown and I made sure we were there at the start to see him off on his 500m dash to the river followed by 6km along the River Ouse. There was 2Lt Robins in transition from Cpl Pinnington and Sgt then a mad dash in the car to try and meet Sgt Poole at the the swim to the cycle Patrick making some last finish line. On arrival, 2 competitors had already finished in minute technical adjustments record time. Sig Jimmy Baker was already warming up ready for handover for the arduous river run of 12km along the river managed to cajole four other members of the Squadron and bank. Sgt Poole arrived at the finish line shortly after us, to acquired sufficient equipment to participate - Lt Seaton then hand over to Sig Baker. On the team brief the night obtained FofS Cadogan's fetching pink road bike which before, it was made quite clear that there was a rather large disappointingly lacked handlebar tassels or spoke beads. bull in the field prior to the finish line, and the advice given Arriving in good time at 21SR’s home ground, the group set up was either run around him or take a chance and run past him. at the transition station, undertook some last minute I know what I would have done!! adjustments and waited for the day to begin by getting some facetime with the sunshine.

Following the opening brief and short warm-up the even shorter 2Lt Robins set off in the first wave. Fortunately she had managed to procure a tri suit, but unfortunately this meant that the rest of the event participants were deprived of witnessing the 50m dash from the pool to the transition station in her bikini. Thirty minutes later the latest attached officer at 251, Lt ‘Lance Attachee’ Seaton, set off for the first triathlon he was thoughtfully volunteered for. Sgt Patrick and Cpl ‘Wings’ Pinnington donned their swim caps and began in the 5th wave and Capt ‘Tango’ Brown joined the professionals in the subsequent wave. After 16 lengths of the 25m pool, a 21km road cycle and an unpleasant transition to a 5km run, all competitors crossed the finish line in varying states of athletic show. Capt Brown managed to beat Cpl Pinnington, despite not having a set of wings embroidered on his shorts, and achieved the best time from the unit. SSgt Torode, SSgt (FofS) Cadogan and Capt Brown looking happy at 0500hrs!! Happily all competitors, including the previously reluctant novices, from the 10 Signal Regiment team have been Again it was a mad dash to the end of the leg, with some encouraged to attempt further in the coming superb navigating by SSgt (FofS) Cadogan, and some safe months, improve their times further and bring some driving by me to make it to the start of the next leg, where silverware home for the Regiment. Cpl Luke Christian and LCpl Ray Dowson were waiting with anticipation for their leg consisting of a 7km run and 27km 10 Signal Regiment Race the Sun 2014 – by Sgt Evans cycle. Sig Baker arrived at the end of his leg to handover covered head to toe in mud, and kindly explaining that the On 29 May 2014, 2 Signal Regiment hosted this years Race the ground was very muddy and slippery, hence why it took so Sun, held in the sunny Dales of good old with long to get to the finish!! Cpl Christian flew out of the blocks a record of 29 teams entering. as we knew we had a bit of catching up to do. At this stage, we were sat in about 10th place overall. The admin team After being handed the task of OIC picking the Regimental moved forward to the transition area to pick up any loose kit team in April 2014, my work was cut out to get a 30 man team that might be left behind after they changed to their bikes. from across the Regiment to partake in a 15 Stage sporting Cpl Christian made up about 4 places on the run, with LCpl event from running, cycling, marching, swimming and Dowson not too far behind. over 182 miles of North Yorkshire’s most scenic roads, forests and lakes between sunrise and sunset. On arrival at the start of Leg 4, a 5km hill run, LCpl Jake Gual and Sig Brad Avery were taking cover in a 9x9 trying to keep Having chosen my admin team of SSgt (FofS) Bev Cadogan, warm and stay out of the rain which was slowly descending Cpl Col Marten and LCpl Luke Bailey, I knew things would run on North Yorkshire. We arrived just before Cpl Christian smoothly and that the team would be well looked after. powered over the line on his bike to handover to LCpl Gual As most people are probably aware, we are quite a diverse and Sig Avery. This was going to be a cheeky little run up Regiment with Sqns in Northern Ireland, Aldershot, Andover, quite a steep incline, a 1 in 5 hill….rather them than me!! We Colerne and our RHQ in Corsham, so trying to get our team were unable to see the handover to Leg 5 where Sig Dean together took a lot of phone calls and begging emails to Cripps was waiting for his forced march to start over 12.5kms release manpower and the last minute dropouts due to injury carrying a load of 15Kgs. Again this was going to a test of his that make our Regiment unique. willpower considering who he was going to have to chase down. He completed it in just over 90mins, and handed over So on arrival in York, the males were introduced to the to Sgt Lee Wilbor to take on the 10km moor run across the delights of 2 Signal Regiment's gym which we would call Rievaulx Moor.

36 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 While this was going on, there was a mass start for the Half As good as an admin Marathon and we had high hopes with SSgt Brenden Torode team that we were, it being a Corps cross country runner and finishing well in the was not possible to recent Fleet Half Marathon. However his hamstring was to get to visit all the legs, give up on him, thus making him stop and wait for the safety so a big shout out vehicle to pick him up and take him to the finish line. goes to Capt Richard Unbeknown to SSgt Torode, he was only 2 miles from the Dixon and Cpl Martin finish line and could have walked it allowing us not to pick up Connarty for a 15min penalty along with registering the slowest person’s performing well in the times….manadin all round we think!! (PS Make sure you hand orienteering leg and back your RTS14 T-shirt). WO2 (YofS) Jones and SSgt (FofS IS) Capt Jon Sillito, Vernon making a break from the having a good leg in This had a knock on effect with WO2 (SSM) Marty Cope and starting line the cycle orienteering. Sgt John Connor waiting in the wings to start their 24km mountain bike ride. The admin team had covered some The finish line for Leg serious miles by this point; this was increased further by some 14 was back on camp, so the admin team moved forward to poor navigating and listening to the SatNav!! However we did be at the line to cheer in the final competitors. As they make it with time to spare to see many a mountain biker go started to come in, we soon realised that WO2 (YofS) Jones past us with words of encouragement of ‘Not far to go’ and and SSgt (FofS IS) Vernon had been caught by what can only ‘It’s just around the corner’. As we approached the final steep be described as the elite Army tri-athletes, but in all honesty climb to see if we could see our team members, we noticed they only just finished in front, so a good showing all round. someone at the bottom of the hill pushing their bike up…and as SSgt (FofS) Cadogan approached them, we noticed it was Then came the final leg, a 3km stretcher race on Imphal WO2 (SSM) Cope not looking very happy, and it was only as Barracks. This consisted of a six man team led by Cpl he got closer we noticed he had suffered a front wheel Christian. The teams were lined up on the football pitch and blowout and had made the schoolboy error of relying on one team member had to do a lap and a half of the pitch, someone else having a bike pump. As he got to the brow of then pick up the team and stretcher and complete 2 laps of the hill, we decided to jog in which can only be described as camp. This was going to be a challenge in itself as the team probably the longest 2 miles he has ever run. Sgt Connor had all competed during the day and there was going to be brought up the rear in the safety vehicle after also suffering a some tired legs. The team started well, but we faded towards blowout and being knocked off his bike into a ditch. the end, but it was a good effort all round by the team who romped home in the middle third. Then it was onto the fell run of 10km, where Lt Col Dallyn The presentation came and went with only the top 3 teams MBE and LCpl Katie Constable were waiting to be released from the Major and Minor units being read out by the 11 Signal and hopefully make up some lost time. The admin team then Brigade Commander. Then onto the evenings entertainment had to move forward to the lake swim to drop off Capt in the style of a BBQ, beer and downtown York!! After Brown and meet up with SSgt (FofS IS) Mel Vernon. another successful and entertaining Race the Sun 2014, we are going to be better prepared for next year with new unit This was our chance to grab a break and some lunch in the t-shirts and tracksuits to give us that cutting edge over the process, which consisted of a quick trip to Morrisons. The other teams!!! 10 Signal Regiment finished 8th out of 13 Major admin team then set up base at the finish of the swim and the units and 12th overall out of the 29 teams who entered. start of the cycle/run leg, where WO2 (YofS) Dai Jones and SSgt (FofS IS) ‘Vern’ Vernon were being briefed prior to the 81 SIGNAL SQUADRON start of their leg. The swim was a mass start, and all we could see was flailing arms and lots of splashing. Whilst waiting for OC Maj M Arscott the swimmers to finish, a message came across the radio PSAO Capt T Rai saying that the forest run had been cancelled due to the TAC signs being incorrectly positioned, much to the relief of SSgt 81 Sig Sqn shooting team had a great success in the Force Lou Underwood and Sgt Winfield Harvey. Troops Operational Shooting Competition (FTOSC) held at Pirbright Ranges on 17 and 18 May. They won the trophy for As the swimmers approached, there was a 200m dash to the Minor Unit, team A finished 4th out of 10 and team B handover to the next leg, and as the first competitor finished 8th. LCpl Loughran came second in the Machine Gun appeared from behind the bushes, we noticed it was Capt match, which was excellent considering the limited practice Brown powering towards the finish line, giving us our first leg he had, and Sig Wright also put in a very decent performance win of the day, with SSgt (FofS IS) Mel Vernon not to far in the same match and was very close to a top 3. Sig Carlisle, behind. WO2 (YofS) Jones was so hyped up that he only who was our G4 support stepped in to deputise for Team B in performed what can only be described as a controlled wheel the falling plate when Sgt Tomblin had to drop out. Team A spin, while SSgt (FofS IS) Vernon was still trying to clip his made it to the semi -finals (Royal Signals) in the falling plate shoes into his pedals!! competition.

WO2 (SSM) Cope receiving words of encouragement from SSgt (FofS) Cadogan!!

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 37 14th SIGNAL REGIMENT (ELECTRONIC WARFARE) HAVERFORDWEST

CO Lt Col Mark Purves once within audible range, Sig Robertson confirmed that he RSM WO1 (RSM) Gaz Rhoades was smiling because he had no idea what he was doing during the shoot! Despite this, he managed to put in a credible score 223 SIGNAL SQUADRON (ELECTRONIC WARFARE) along with the rest of the team!

OC Maj Miles Nettleship Over the coming 3 days, the shoots got progressively more SSM WO2 (SSM) Dave Corcoran difficult with individuals firing SA80s out to 500m on Century Range at the National Shooting Centre, Bisley, and the Force Troops Command Operational Shooting Competition intensity of the physical aspect increasing. Indeed one of the – by Lt James Cook INT CORPS shoots was preceded by a CASEVAC and another by an ACFT1!

Having had a brief introduction to the art of long range By the end of the week the team had made a good account of marksmanship on Barry Buddon Training Area, the 14 SR(EW) itself, especially considering the limited training available in OSC team headed off to Brunswick Camp on the Sunday prior the run up to the competition. Cpl Demain was awarded to the competition. Armed with enthusiasm, self-assurance Silver for his efforts in the Machine Gun Shoot, to rapturous and a sense of humour, the entire team was confident that applause from the Ghurkhas present as they had dominated they would put in a good account of themselves and they did almost every other competition. The team overall came third not disappoint. in the Machine Gun competition and were around mid-table amongst their fellow Royal Signals teams. Above all, they Day 1 began with a last minute change of personnel in the were much better marksmen after the FTC OSC and were able team, which saw attached officer 2Lt Jenny Dornan take the to return to Brawdy in the very firm knowledge from that reins as Captain a little earlier than expected. This was moment on, every ACMT would be ’Buckers’! followed by a long wait to get onto the practice/zero range - fortunately, the fine weather ensured that nobody really minded the wait too much. In fact, the only complaint registered was the lack of an ice-cream van! Once the backlog had cleared, 14SR(EW)’s 8 chosen warriors stepped up to the point to begin check zeroing and managed to put in some impressively small groupings in the process. The afternoon brought the first competition shoot and the realisation that there was some pretty punchy PT to be done prior to a number of the shoots. The highlight of the afternoon was definitely Cpl Ben Demain’s 2nd place in the Machine Gun Match, a first-rate achievement. Following such a successful afternoon, the team retired to a local meeting venue in order to focus on the mechanics of the somewhat complex shoots that faced us the following day. LCpl Tarling passing on some expert marksmanship advice Having been woken unnecessarily early by the apparently nocturnal Gunners 226 SIGNAL SQUADRON (ELECTRONIC WARFARE) that the team shared a room with, Tuesday got off to an OC Capt Alex Cave excellent start in so far as the SSM WO2 (SSM) Baz Harvey weather was far more suited to running around in a combat The last month or so has seen a huge amount of change take smock and Osprey! Following place within the Squadron set against a busy schedule of on from the previous day, the exercises, sport and normal Squadron routine. Not only has team continued to succeed at the Squadron experienced the usual postings in and out, but every shoot with individual we have also been lucky enough to welcome to our ranks a team members clocking up large number of personnel already within the Regiment. some impressive scores. Following Op Herrick 19 and their return from Theatre, 236 Signal Squadron (Electronic Warfare) disbanded as part of the Following a few less impressive Regiments restructuring, with all personnel re-orbatted to scores the on Monday Cpl Demain’s Silver in the other Squadrons. For the Squadron, this has meant that over afternoon, Tuesday began with Machine Gun Match 20 personnel from 236 Signal Squadron (Electronic Warfare) a check-zero session as have now bolstered our ranks, bringing with them swathes of recommended by the team 2IC, operational experience and plenty of new faces. Of course, who promptly discovered that his less than perfect score at we welcome them and look forward to the (very busy) future the end of the day was nothing to do with a poor zero. Cue together. endless mocking! Of the 4 matches that day, the highlight seemed to be the incredibly complex Urban Contact Match The main event during this period was Ex WESENDORF which involved engaging various targets at various ranges BAYONET, a range camp organised by WO2 (SSM) Baz with both rifle and pistol. After the first team had gone Harvey. You could almost hear the Squadron groan when through, Sig Robertson emerged with a huge grin on his face. they were informed that they were to spend two weeks The author assumed that he had clearly scored well, however, based out of Barry Buddon Training Camp, Scotland; thoughts

38 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 of midges and incessant rain sprang to the minds of most. 237 SIGNAL SQUADRON (ELECTRONIC WARFARE) However, after a twelve hour journey to ‘bonnie Scotland’, we were greeted by blue skies and uncharacteristic sunshine, OC Maj Jane Ellis conditions which were to continue (with the odd exception) SSM WO2 (SSM) Bruce Morrison for the entire time we were there! Progressing from ‘Grouping and Zeroing’ and the ACMT through pistol ranges Exercise UNIFIED VISION, Norway – by LCpl Coates and CQB shoots, the camp culminated in a Section LFTT which everyone really enjoyed. As well as giving the opportunity to After a short stop in Amsterdam our flight from Birmingham improve personal weapon handling, a significant number of Airport to Trondheim was done, but the overall journey from MATTs were also completed in the evenings. More Cawdor Barracks in south Wales to our final destination importantly however, the SSM’s insistence on maximum Orland Air Station in northern Norway was still a few hours attendance ensured that this was an ideal opportunity for drive away. We passed through the spectacular fjords and everyone to really get to know each other, all the way from mountainous passes northern Norway has to offer far too Squadron HQ to the newest of signallers. knackered to appreciate the views and bed was the only thought on our minds. As well as Ex WESENDORF BAYONET, Sqn personnel from 640 Troop have spent recent weeks preparing for deployment on Upon arrival our group, including Capt ‘Springsteen’ Ex LISTENING LION, a multinational EW exercise organised by Matthews, WO2 ‘Ring the Bell’ Hemming, LCpl ‘Half a Job’ Y Squadron Royal Marines. The exercise is ongoing, so wait Harrison, LCpl ‘Rory’ Brown, Sig ‘Copey’ Cope and myself out for an update in the near future! settled into our new accommodation, equipped with the latest in Scandinavian design (cheap Ikea beds that squeaked Sporting success continues to be an ever-present feature of at the slightest move). But after a patchy six hour sleep it Squadron life. Leading form the front, Lt Luke Facey and was time to get up for breakfast and, more importantly, meet WO2 (SSM) Baz Harvey were cornerstones of the Regiment’s our civilian colleagues who would then give us clearer entry into Race the Sun. With both Tp Comd and the Sqn SSM direction on how the next three weeks would pan out. involved, Squadron personnel had nowhere to hide and 10 individuals found themselves either in the team or supporting The ‘exercise’ was to be much more an ISTAR equipment trial in some fashion! In other sports, certain individuals deserve than it was a military exercise. It involved at least a dozen special mention. In only his first season, LCpl Holt has gone NATO partners, and the latest air and ground ISTAR assets from strength to strength and after several months of hard available including UAVs and AWACs. Our main aim was to training, has shown himself to be a stalwart of the Regimental help trial a new DSTL software called CESMO that aimed to Boxing Team. Similarly, the Squadrons captive-greyhound- allow information and intelligence to be shared instantly disguised-as-a-soldier LCpl Lodowski has also surpassed across a NATO-wide network, ultimately enabling NATO to himself. Racing at the Army Individual and Inter Corps work more efficiently in the future. Championships, LCpl Lodowski achieved 1st place in the Individual 400m hurdles (he is now Army Champion!); 3rd We were joined by members of QinetiQ, creators of MEWS (a place in the Individual 200m; and helped the Royal Corps of range of EW platforms) and a couple of guys from Chemring Signals team achieve an outstanding 2nd place overall! As a (formerly of Roke Manor and creators of Resolve, another EW result, he has been selected to race at the Combined Services platform). By working alongside these Defence Research and Army Inter Services Championships. No wonder no one companies we could help operate the equipment they had can catch him on a PFA...! brought and also identify problems with the CESMO network.

As previously mentioned, the Squadron has undergone a huge Before the exercise kicked off in full we were able to enjoy turnover in personnel in recent weeks. Firstly, the Squadron the Norwegian National Day, a day they celebrate their must welcome all new arrivals, namely Capt Paul Chester, independence from Sweden and which everyone uses as an WO2 (YofS(EW)) Stu Gray and all personnel from 236 Signal excuse to start drinking at nine in the morning and partying Squadron (Electronic Warfare) as well as those personnel through to the early hours the next day. When deciding on recently posted in. You have arrived at a busy and exciting having a night out in Norway, be prepared to remortgage time in the Squadron's history! The Squadron also bids your Mum’s house or sell your grandmother’s jewellery farewell and thank you to an equally large number of because at 94Kroner (£9.40) a pint' you can appreciate how personnel, including: Maj Issy Bangurah for whom the lure of much richer everyone in Norway really is. civvy street proved too great (good luck!); Capt Ed Gutierrez who has literally ‘run to the hills’; and WO1 (YofS(EW)) Stu The prices in the bar on camp were a more modest 40Kroner Fenton who moves across to the Regt Trg Wing. To all those a pint and after a few to settle the nerves, Andy Butler (one who have left the Squadron recently (not only those named of the guys from Chemring) performed a karaoke rendition of here) thank you for your efforts and we wish you well for the Elvis Presley’s ‘Suspicious Minds’ which will stay with me for future! life; a complete karaoke masterclass. Besides the prices, another thing we had all noticed upon arrival to Norway was how beautiful all the women are. Yes, all the stereotypes are true! And yes, I did fall in love, about thirty times before the exercise was over.

There was also an ‘International Night’ where all the nations put up a stall offering the best their country had to offer for food and drinks. For the Royal Marines manning the British stall, it was G&Ts with strawberries and cream. For the Italians it was pasta and red wine but the show was truly stolen by the Canadians and their horrible yet popular ‘Moose Milk’ which can only be described as a s*** mix.

During the day we would man the EW sensors positioned on the vantage points surrounding the air station, with stunning views overlooking the fjords. Using the MEWS and Chemring

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 39 equipment we could intercept enemy transmissions and pass Brawdy won the plate at the Int Corps Sharon Elliott 7s back vital information to the HQ on the air station. After a competition. After a busy pre season programme where the long day of intercepting enemy communications and creating team played teams such as Pembroke Dock and St Davids enemy activity reports, there was nothing better than hitting from the local community, they came back from summer the gym for an hour and then enjoying the delights of the leave to win the Royal Signals Collins Cup 10s competition in on-site sauna. However some of our NATO allies (especially September 2013. the Germans) just loved coming into the sauna in their birthday suits swinging their German sausages about as if the Having entered the Army Rugby Union Community Cup, the sauna wasn’t only nine feet by nine feet and full of sweaty Brawdy Brumbies were placed against some formidable men. But hey, all part of the bonding process and the ‘closer teams from outside the Corps as well as some familiar faces. cohesion’ that NATO needs if it is to function as a fighting Though trounced in the first game by 1 RIFLES (the eventual force in the future. ARU Cup winners) 80+ points to nil, the team managed to take the few positives away from this game and went on an Exercise FOXES CLEAR UP – by LCpl Brown unbeaten run in the group stages, beating 11 Signal Regiment, 21 Signal Regiment and HQ ARRC Sp. Clwb Rygbi Brawdy then On 9 and 10 June, 237 Sig Sqn (EW) took part on Ex FOXES went on to beat 28 Engr Regt in the quarter final and, in a CLEAR UP. This was an initiative working alongside the very tight game, came from behind to defeat the Queen’s National Trust in Pembrokeshire to help renovate a plot of Royal Hussars in the semi final in Newbury. Another tough land which had stood derelict for years. When we arrived we game ensued in the final against ATR Pirbright but again were greeted by a shell of a house (which had recently been Brawdy Brumbies RFC with Cpl Nick ‘Lloydy’ Lloyd as captain, made safe), a half collapsed barn and dense trees and came out on top to win 24 – 20. scrubland around the main building. Next came the Royal Signals 7 s competition which saw teams Under the direction of WO2 (SSM) Morrison we were split coming close to, but never stopping the unbeaten run (full into 3 groups: one to clear the vegetation, one to provide report below). vehicle access to the site and one to salvage stone and rebuild the barn using the original material. As all tasks looked to be The Hall Cup finals day in Blandford on 21 May saw the physically tough, LCpl Coates was very quick to jump on the culmination of the Royal Signals rugby season being played dumper and was more than happy to shuttle gravel to and with 11 Signal Regiment beating 21 Signal Regiment to win the from the site whilst the rest of the Sqn cracked on with their Bowl while 14 Signal Regiment (Electronic Warfare) met 3 DSR respective jobs. The tree clearers started strongly and quickly in the Cup final. A tight game was played with the forwards set about felling the biggest tree they could find, which they seeing most of the ball in the first half. The sides were very did so successfully. Early into the task they lost accomplished evenly matched with Brawdy going in at half time up by only woodsman Sig Cope to a sliced leg. LCpl Brown replaced the one point. Another slog of a match kicked off in the second injured Sig Cope and quickly established himself as top half with more scrums being contested than I care to lumberjack and earned the title, “biggest chopper”. remember. However Brawdy’s training kicked in and some late pressure with only 14 players on the pitch saw Sgt John As the exercise went on, the tree clearers gained more Vatu cross the line to win the game by 8 points. experience with the axe and competition for best lumberjack became fierce, SSgt Dale favouring the saw whilst the rest of After hosting a French 7s team in the Royal Signals 7s us preferred swinging axes. This also proved an invaluable competition last season, Clwb Rygbi Brawdy were rewarded exercise in regards to team building. As a group we were able with an invite to the French Signals 7s competition held in to bring junior woodsman LCpl Harrison on leaps and bounds. Thionville, France. Although the team from Wales beat all 5 As the first day drew to an end, everybody at the site came teams in the round robin on day 1, they were defeated in the away sore, excluding digger driver LCpl Coates. We arrived at final where the opposition had too much depth for Brawdy to our tent village to be greeted by some sort of range stew cope with. However the team were hosted very well and affair and a questionable rice pudding; just what we all made some friends both on the pitch and in the local town of wanted. Metz.

The second day started with reveille in the form of the SSM A huge thanks goes out to Capt Billy Morris and Sgt Chris and a Land Rover horn. Tuesday was scheduled for heavy rain for all their hard work this season and of course the CO, but thankfully it was another day of good weather so Lt Col Mark Purves, for giving his support to the team and everyone went back to their jobs, already thinking about enabling the squad to go out and play rugby. Having won all returning to camp. By the end of the day, lots of progress of the Royal Signals competitions as well as the Army Rugby had been made: the barn was relatively structurally safe, Union Community Bowl, the team have a lot to live up to in there was vehicle access and the vegetation had been the coming season but look forward to the challenge. transformed into a clearing. Eagerly, the group made our way down to the coach to head back to camp but in true Army Army Rugby Union Bowl Final – Aldershot, 16 April 2014 style the coach wouldn’t budge, which left the majority of the - by: 2Lt John Rose group stranded. After waiting for 5 ½ hours and exhausting the resources of the breakdown recovery, a rescue convoy of 14 Sig Regt (EW) 24 v ATR Pirbright 20 men including the previously injured Sig Cope came to the rescue, drawing a line under Ex FOXES CLEAR UP. After much hard work from Rugby Officer Capt Billy Morris, and a number of impressive wins in the previous rounds, 14 14 Signal Regiment (Electronic Warfare) Rugby Team Report Sig Regt (EW) had reached this year’s Rugby Bowl Final held at Aldershot. The Regiment would meet ATR Pirbright after a The 2013/14 season was extremely triumphant for the Brawdy spirited comeback against the Queen’s Royal Hussars in the Brumbies. Thanks to the ever-present effort of manager Capt Semi Final. Billy Morris to corral support from the Regiment, and the tactics of coach Sgt Chris Selby, the team have gone from In true 14 Sig Regt (EW) fashion the inevitable 4 or 5 hour strength to strength this year. journey towards civilisation the day before the match ensued. This allowed us to be fresh prior to a relatively early 1100hrs Momentum started late in the 2013 season when Clwb Rygbi kick off. After trawling the Regiment for any man who had

40 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 ever held rugby ball possession for Brawdy Brumbies RFC. LCpl Charlie Berry was a strong squad was causing all sorts of problems for the opposition three available for quarters, with mazy runs that cut open the opposition’s selection, including defence. An excellent break followed by an inspired sidestep Sgt John Vatu who allowed him to cross the white wash under the posts, giving had turned up at 14 14SR a lifeline to hold on to. Sig Regt (EW) that same day. With the bit between the teeth, a sense of urgency gripped 14 SR. The comeback was on! An outstanding team After getting our performance with displays of grit, determination and the will heads down at the to win shown by all. After some onlookers had given up hope salubrious ATR Brawdy defied the odds with LCpl ‘Jacko’ Jackson crossing Pirbright transit the line from 5 yards out, this pushed 14 Sig Regt (EW) into accommodation, an the lead for first time since the opening minutes. The score early start and a was now 21-20. With a few minutes remaining it was crucial to Tesco’s sandwich keep ATR Pirbright off the score board. for breakfast, the team was fit and In the dying minutes an opportunity for 3 points allowed LCpl raring to go. After ‘Macca’ Mackay to seal the deal. A passionate display from a a rousing speech relatively inexperienced side meant that 14 Sig Regt (EW) are Another lineout won from Team Captain the 2014 Army Rugby Bowl Winners. The final score: 24 - 20. Cpl ‘Lloydy’ Lloyd the team were up Again in true 14 Sig Regt (EW) style an extended late night for the challenge and were determined to bring some ‘service station’ break in Swansea city centre took place to silverware home for the Regiment and the Corps. ensure no cramping or ceasing up occurred on PT at 0730.

1100hrs came and Aldershot had unusually provided us with a perfect spring morning, excellent conditions for expansive running rugby, which our props could capitalise upon. The opening period saw a sustained barrage of pressure in which 14 Sig Regt (EW) converted a number of penalty attempts by the accurate boot of LCpl ‘Macca’ Mackay. This was topped off with an early try from Cpl Vuli. An all round positive start.

Early on our utility forward Lt Chris ‘Hop-along’ Collier went down with what seemed, initially, a minor injury. On further inspection by Cpl Vuli the shape of Chris’s leg was somewhat at an angle, his foot pointing in one direction and a bone-like object pointing in the other. As all good coaches do, Sgt Chris ‘Mumbles’ Selby proceeded to enter the field of play and spray Lt Collier’s leg with deep heat, but on this occasion the Army Bowl Winners injury sustained was just a tad too severe!

After play continued the momentum seemed to be with the Royal Signals 7s Competition – Cardiff, 7 May 2014 opposition. A more solid platform was available for a period - by 2Lt Ben Spowage in which ATR Pirbright were able to utilise their quick set of backs. After a few scores, ATR Pirbright began to pull away. There were ominous signs of rain on the journey to Llandaff As the half time whistle was blown the opposition were North RFC where the Royal Corps of Signals Rugby Inter-Unit sitting on a comfortable lead. Sevens competition was held. However, this relented for most of the day allowing for respectable playing conditions. The beginning of the second half would signify the start of another 14 Sig Regt (EW) epic fight back! An excellent The tournament comprised of two pools of four teams. Our defensive display from the entire team afforded ATR Pirbright first two matches were against 21 Sig Regt B team and 10 Sig very little time on the ball, forcing errors and resulting in Regt which were won relatively easily. We kept the play flowing freely and refused to get sucked into a forward's game which created overlaps on the outside wings. The tries were scored after going through multiple hands in a concerted team effort with Cpl Joey Jones, Capt Ed Gutierrez, Sig Beardy Beard and 2Lt Ben Spowage amongst others finishing the plays.

Our third game against 22 Sig Regt saw 14 Sig Regt (EW) falter from previous form. We stopped playing running rugby and got sucked into a much more stagnant game. Luckily, our structure was revitalised in the second half and some solid defence saw 14 Sig Regt (EW) winning a very closely fought match putting us in the final having won all the games within our group.

The final was against 21 Sig Regt A team. The initial minutes were very closely fought with solid play demonstrated by both sides. However, 14 Sig Regt (EW) after a period of Jacko scores the first try in the Army Bowl final unyielding defence forced a dropped ball which Cpl Joey

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 41 French Sergeant Major and sending him flying. Nevertheless after a hard fought game they were overcome. After the game the duck had disappeared off the halfway line, which left the team less than happy and a duck hunt went underway. After 10 minutes, more than a few curse words and a suggestion of invading France, Beardy turned up with the duck and had had it all along

The fifth and final game was against 21 Regiment De Transmissions. After a whole day playing against some very good teams we went into this game tired aching and covered head to toe in deep heat. The game kicked off and was a very fast paced game with Ben doing more than one hero run through the whole French team. With adrenaline running Royal Signals 7's Winners high and the ref playing a guessing game with the rules, more than one scuffle broke out between us and the French. This Jones promptly nutmegged through Cpl Mikey Harrison’s was a close game and came down to conversion kicks to legs, then collected it to score the first try of the game. Not decide the winner, which left us nervous as our kicks had content to stop there Cpl Jones cut 21 Sig Regt defence to been a little hit and miss all day, pieces scoring another three tries in quick succession and then Sgt John Vatu crashed through the defence to score the The second day was the semi finals and the finals. We had fifth try to put the nail in the coffin. The final ended with 14 two games to play and if we won we were going home with Sig Regt (EW) the victors having won a respectable 29-7. All the trophy. The first game was against 21 Regiment De that was left was to receive the very large trophy and take Transmissions. We knew this would be a hard game but we the meandering journey back to Brawdy. Everyone from the also knew we could beat them. The game kicked off and Regt who played thoroughly enjoyed the tournament. straight away we realised they were not prepared to go down without a fight. The game was pretty even but we come out Rugby 7s Thionville France, 26-29 May 14 - by Sig Crutchley on top with a straight win.

The Rugby 7s trip started on the 26 May 14, the whole team The last game was the final; it was us versus 28 Regiment De (including the team’s mascot, a ceramic duck acquired on Transmissions. We were apprehensive about this game as this previous endeavours) was in good spirits. We set off at 0800 was the best French team at the tournament and they had and had a long way to drive, 16 hours, lots of monster energy more subs than us and the game went from 7 minutes each and a ferry journey later we were in Thionville France. way to 15. The game kicked off and straight away both teams were giving it their all. The pace was quick and the tackles Day one of the competition started with an early rise of 0600 were hard, especially for one of the French players who got for breakfast and a short drive to the pitch. When we arrived tackled by Sgt John ‘The Mallet’ Vatu who needed medical at the pitch we inspected it to find that the French had attention. shortened the playing field, this cheered the team up as a day of travelling and no sleep to follow had left us all very tired, One or two miss-timed throws led to a few missed tries, but a so at least we had less running to do. We then dropped our break in their defence led to 2Lt Ben Spowage doing a kit in the allocated tent and had a walk around the other blinding run for our first try. The French team kept up the teams to see what we were up against. pace and scored two tries in quick succession. After half time the team started off well with renewed determination Our first game was against 41 Regiment De Transmissions, managing to get another try thanks to some well timed with the Duck placed on the halfway line the game started. passes. The French, however, did not take this sitting down This was a hard fought game against a good team. It became and scored a try thanks to a break in our defence and some apparent pretty quickly that the ref had no idea what he was good pace. The lack of subs on our side was starting to wear doing with some rather dubious decisions, nevertheless the the team out which was the chink in the armour. With a few team fought hard and overcame the opposition with six tries, minutes left of the game the French scored another try and With 2Lt Ben Spowage being the star player of the game secured their victory. including more than one hero run. The competition was over and we came second. We were After a short break the second game was against 40 happy with the outcome as we had played well and fought Regiment De Transmissions. After the first game the team hard for every try. We were a bit disappointed that we didn’t was in good spirits and was confident they would win. The win the last game but we had to admit they played well. We duck was placed on the halfway line and the game kicked off. left the tournament knowing we did our best and had enjoyed This was a hard game against a team with a solid defence, the whole trip, all we had left was a long journey home. never the less team broke through and again overcame the opposition with 4 tries and more than one brutal tackle by our resident Fijian Sgt John Vatu.

The third game was against 48 Regiment de Transmissions. This was a difficult game against a team that was full of larger players. This was a problem as it was taking 2/3 players to take one of them down, but our quicker pace managed to keep the score pretty even and eventually win.

The fourth game was against 28 Regiment De Transmissions. This was the hardest game as it was against the best French team there. They had good pace and a solid defence and presented a challenge. The highlight of the match was Mackay missing a tackle on the edge of the pitch and hitting a Hall Cup Final Winners

42 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 16th SIGNAL REGIMENT ELMPT

CO Lt Col SW Whittley catching and cooking your own food can save your life, at RSM WO1 (RSM) T Woodall which point Wallace was strung upside down and in one swift cut, off popped his head, the body wiggling around and blood 230 SIGNAL SQUADRON pouring from the neck.

OC Maj J Higginson As always, it was now the troops turn to practice. LCpl Allen SSM WO2 (SSM) Orr stepped up for the next go; he may be able to take 3 AFTs in 3 days but his “head lopping off” abilities were seriously Exercise MALAYAN SOLDIER – by Sig Keyworth lacking. Taking multiple attempts to remove Wallace’s friends head, it then appeared he had not secured the feet, as the Ex MALAYAN SOLDIER was a 4 day troop level exercise run by headless chicken managed to get free and run about flapping, Lts Mahoney and Budden to revise our Bowman knowledge, much like some of the Signallers. Congratulations Sig Hughes, push and develop our infantry skills and most importantly test for your birthday it was now your turn. Without hesitation our deployability. Tornado Tp of 230 Sqn were primarily the chicken was upside down and headless with no remorse focused on infantry skills with a day of comms. Deploying on on Sig Hughes’ part. To conclude the stand, SSgt Clarke Tuesday ExCon was established and all available Troop assets showed us how to pluck and gut Wallace, removing the deployed into the field. feathers and skin, before removing all the chickens’ insides, leaving us with two exquisite breasts suitable for any Sunday The Bowman phase was our opportunity to monitor the det roast. Again the troops had a go too; LCpl Gale seemed to commanders’ ability to suitably site and run through the drills enjoy having his hand inside the chicken a little bit too much. of setting up a Bowman detachment. Sig Driver and I crewed for one of the Bowman dets. Given a location, we chose our suitable place of deployment, using terrain, buildings and natural cover. We were placed off the beaten track with plenty of cover but still able to successfully set up and maintain comms. Our position was only given away due to the not so tactical nature of the LFG chugging away.

Once the det was built and comms established, it was time to get some personal admin time. After only moments of warming myself up in the ever functional issued dos bag we received a 30 minutes NTM. I set to work on tearing down the 9x9 and erecting a poncho. After only seconds of being outside, the heavens opened and put me to the test. The ground sodden, the cam pegs (I’ve seen longer toothpicks) were no longer holding and started slipping out. So cam net, we meet again! After what seemed like an eternity I managed SSgt Clarke and Wallace to double peg the cam net and get back everything ready for the 30 minutes NTM. Pleased with myself, I climbed into my basha and as soon as my second boot was off: 15 minutes It was now time to step up our game, taking in turns to run NTM. Here we go again! through multiple scenarios we could face out in Theatre. Three scenarios faced the troops: an extraction under enemy After a brief night of thrashing on det drills we regrouped on fire, a close target recce and a section quick attack. the Wednesday morning to finish the Bowman phase and progress on to the infantry phase of the exercise. Whilst the On the section attack most were successful, with many ExCon crew set off to deploy at their new location to support appreciating the need for increased aggression. All engaged exercise scenarios, the three sections of the platoon began and killed the enemy and recovered the intelligence held by some basic revision. Sgt Fogg, who performed the most theatrical death since a Shakespeare play – modelled on the epic film “Platoon”? SSgt Maclaren took the troops through the six section battle drills and section attack lessons, refreshing their skills and Early Friday morning was our dawn platoon attack. Lt Budden drills before moving onto section attacks. Cpl Donaldson and was the platoon commander to lead the troops in the early Cpl Mears had set up a stand as well for covering section hours. As designated “war correspondent” I came off stag at attacks into further detail. Lt Budden then ran a lesson 0300 and met up with the platoon at 0500. The week’s explaining how a section attack scales up to a platoon attack. lessons and practice all culminated in this final attack. As the platoon patrolled down through the woods, the only light As the evening closed in, a platoon harbour was formed at Hill was from the flash of my camera, it may have been an 60, but the day was not over and all exercising troops were exercise but the troops were fully focused on the task in summoned to SSgt Clarke’s survival stand. At first it seemed hand. As the first section made contact with the enemy, the like any other lesson, building up on our recent SERE training, cut off group flanked left for an uphill assault on the enemy explaining how to get water from plants using just a plastic depth position. Making quick work, Sig Freeman searched bag and some string. the bodies before position clear could be called.

However, before long it became apparent this was no To his enjoyment LCpl Haase was taken as a casualty and the ordinary lesson as SSgt Clarke emerged with Wallace, his new platoon regrouped and began the long extraction. It was friend, a feisty chicken. He proceeded to explain how from this point it appeared that my coordination decided to

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 43 abandon me as I not so gracefully tumbled on multiple map and compass. Luckily it was a straightforward (but occasions as I tried to stay out of the way of the platoon but physically demanding) route. The final day was upon us and close enough for some exciting shots. we headed across the Austrian border again to do some white water rafting, which was absolutely fantastic. We went over One last thing to go before we could turn around our kit and some huge rapids and somehow managed not to tip every thoroughly enjoy EndEx in the bar, was the range package put raft over. The highlight of that day was seeing us manage to on by Cpl Newton. This was a great chance for the Sqn to get fit 12 people and a Sgt ‘Foggy’ Fogg on a raft designed or just on the live ranges and zero their weapons for the future. 3 people, a tremendous achievement for 230 Sig Sqn.

All told it was an enjoyable and eventful week for the 255 SIGNAL SQUADRON members of Tornado and Vampire Troops; hopefully one that will not be forgotten in a hurry. OC Maj A Biggs SSM WO2 (SSM) Steers

The Mohnesee March

After a well deserved Easter leave the Regiment deployed a team of willing volunteers to enter the 6th International Mohnesee March. This event is an international marching competition hosted by the local German military located by the Möhne dam. It is a race of four distances 9Km, 12Km, 21Km and 30Km with the best time of each distance added together to make a overall team time.

The 2 teams travelled down to Mohnesee the evening before the event in order to seize the opportunity to eat lots of bratwurst and meet the competitors that had travelled from all around Europe to compete. Certain 16 Sig Regt teams decided that running 30Km without being social the night Patrol Skills before would just not be British and joined in the festivities. This was until it was calculated that running the 18 mile main event was actually nearly 2/3rds of a marathon in kit and could Exercise MALAYA MOUNTAIN – by LCpl Joe ‘Woody’ Wood be a slight challenge with a hangover.

As the 230 Sig Sqn convoy arrived at the Shonblick lodge in The morning of the race started bright and early with a Bavaria for our AT exped, we were quickly greeted by the traditional European breakfast. After lots of ham, cheese and lodge staff who showed us to our rooms and then called us in coffee the event started with a traditional German military for a brief on the ground rules of the lodge. Following tea we parade in order to explain the day's event, this explanation were told which activities we would be doing on the first confused the team a little and meant that most of the parade week and my group had been gifted with kayaking. Before was spent asking, what just happened? And when do we we knew it, day two was upon us and we had signed for our start? After much deliberation and a bit of follow my leader, kayaking gear and met our instructor, Dejan. the teams gathered and those running the first of the four distances were called forward, unfortunately SSgt Craven We then set off to a nearby lake and learned the basics of decided this call gave him ample time to go the toilet and kayaking, lucky for us it was tipping it down and the water subsequently missed the start of his race. Each distance had a was freezing. Naturally Dejan thought it would be a great 10 minute separation to start, up next was the 21km race idea to finish the day off with capsizing drills. Day three saw entered by SSgt (FofS IS) Egerton and Sgt ‘Falcon’ Brown, us ready to hit the rivers, where the water was even colder as both of who thought the turtle and the hare tactic would win LCpl Luke ‘Worm’ Walmsley found out on many occasions. the race. This was until the first check point revealed 6 other The biggest disappointment of the day was that LCpl Steven competitors were not using this theory and were firmly ‘Mackem’ Haase and Sig Jim ‘Robin’ Driver didn’t go in, ahead. The two smaller distance events were entered by a however this wasn’t the case on day four when LCpl Haase further 5 team members with Sig ‘I’m not just the driver’ couldn’t stop going over, and it was by far the coldest day Simpson deciding he would take on the event, much to the and when we were pelted with hailstones it just made it all dislike of the registration clerk who was frantically trying to the more entertaining. Day 5 was near enough the same change names in order to make the numbers match. As the except it seemed we had really all started to develop our day went on the rain set in and it became ever more difficult kayaking skills, much to the delight of Dejan. to decipher the chalk markings on the road with each bridge having to be counted just to make sure you were only To round the K2F Kayaking qualification off on day six we completing the required distance. With a barrage of fruit and were treated to a day kayaking on the Austrian rapids and we ice tea at each check point the 16 Sig Regt teams pushed finally got to see Sig Driver empty water out of his kayak. The around each route, often the only glimpse of the other team next day we swapped activities and went hill walking, led by members was the rush of air that passed when Lt Urey came the tenacious Cpl Barry ‘Shouts at children’ Mears. We saw speeding through. As each race finished it started to show some beautiful sights and despite the red hot weather that each team member had done well and the team was in actually found snow at the top of the mountain. The next day with a chance of beating last years winner, the so called we were divided into two groups and we were again led by “Danish Dynamite”. Sig ‘9 Km funny man’ Edwards deciding Cpl Mears who took us along mountain ridges which scared it apt to point out how a certain team member completing the hell out of LCpl Graham ‘BDG’ Gibb. the longer distances looked like “run fat boy run” from afar, this confirmed his name for next year's 30Km! LCpl Jake ‘Noodle arms’ Allen saw his phone plummet to a horrible death that day (RIP). The next day saw the us climb In the end all the waiting and hard work came to a fantastic over 2000m up the Nebelhorn which was led by the world’s end and the 16 Sig Regt team were triumphant in beating the greatest MLT LCpl Richard ‘The Wizard’ Kerr who forgot his “Danish Dynamite” by 2 minutes, going on to win 2 individual

44 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 placements, a 30Km route record and the overall fastest team the exercise we visited the sights a number of locations in and march time, taking home the worlds biggest trophy and a firm around the areas of Somme and Ypres. place in next year's event. On the first day we visited battlefield cemeteries and memorial plots from one of the main battles of the Somme. In this battlefield there were cemeteries every 500m from where the men had fallen during the offensive advance toward the German Enemy. We learnt about the brave men who climbed over the trenches under heavy artillery fire into ‘No Mans Land’ and advanced towards the Germans.

We then visited Vimy Ridge museum to look at the role played by Canadian, Australian and New Zealand soldiers during the war. Here we listened to individual soldiers heroic accounts against the Germans. It was whilst here that the huge sacrifice made by so many men sunk in and that we have so much to thank for their actions. The Mohnesee March Team To finish the exercise we went to the Menin Gate ceremony in Ypres, Belgium. This ceremony has taken place every night Exercise JAVELIN SCHOLAR – bySig Harrison since ‘The Great War’ and it was fitting to be apart of it and remember the 54,000 brave men who died at Ypres Salient Over the period 12 – 14 May 2014 members of 16 Signal and have no known grave. I would encourage anyone to visit Regiment went on a Battlefield tour to France and Belgium as the Ypres during the next four years to commemorate the part of the anniversary of the start of ‘The Great War’. During sacrifice made by the millions of young men.

21st SIGNAL REGIMENT COLERNE

CO Lt Col A E A Corkery Marathon, sponsored and organised by the great man RSM WO1 (RSM) G Tiplady himself, Haile Gabreselassie, the first marathon of its kind in Ethiopia. Known as the home of running and having SUPPORT SQUADRON produced some of the greatest distance runners in the world, including Gabreselassie and Derartu Tulu, there was no OC Capt D Taylor question in our minds and my wife and I signed up straight SSM WO2 (SSM) A Stephen away. What followed was an exciting whirlwind of organising flights and the decision of which travel package we With the impending return of our HERRICK 19 personnel, the would take part in. We decided on a 6 day runners package Squadron is looking forward to welcoming everybody home which involved four days of training with top Ethiopian and has been busy preparing to ensure the normalisation runners and culminated in the marathon weekend. We flew process runs smoothly. The Regimental homecoming out via Cairo on Mon 14 Oct 2013 and arrived in Addis Ababa function and medal parade is currently top of the agenda. early in the morning.

In order to further enhance the large biceps of Op Massive We were transferred to YaYa Athletes Village, high in the personnel, the RSM has introduced a smaller Beaufighter Mount Entoto range and had two days of high altitude badge to be worn on shirts, and the resulting rush on PCS training, coached by some of the best up and coming local patches and tailoring services from the QM’s Dept can only be athletes in Ethiopia. During down time, we also visited the likened to a Boxing Day Sales rush. Other “stuff” is always on ethnographic museum in Addis, giving us a great insight into the agenda and members of Sp Sqn attended an excellent the local culture. LFTT package, organised by 214 Sig Sqn, conducted on Sennybridge Training Area. FALCON has arrived and the Sqn On Wed 17 Oct, we were driven to the Arsi region for lunch has been busy working out who is responsible for the and a meet and greet with Derartu Tulu himself. We went on servicing and inspection of all the various parts - we know Sgt to the National athletics stadium, built within the last two ‘Mac’ McCall is good, but he can’t do it all! years, and watched some of the local up-and-coming athletes display their skills in a series of races. We have said a sad farewell to the outgoing Quartermaster, Maj Richie Bell, who leaves us for Stafford, and in his place Thu 18 Oct began with our last training run before the race, a welcomed Maj Karl Overton. We have also said farewell to couple of miles through the small village of Asella. We were WO2 (SSM) Stedman who has moved back to 14 Sig Regt taken to a local school where we were able to observe the (EW) on appointment as the RQMS, and in his place, we have classes and enjoy a game of football at break time. We then welcomed WO2 (SSM) Stephen, fresh from RMAS. had a long drive to Hawassa for the marathon.

Haile Marathon – by SSgt Dougie Hamilton MPGS The race weekend kicked off with the 5km and childrens’ races, followed by a race briefing with British runner Richard I have always been a keen runner and an avid reader of Nerurkar. After a short relaxation period, we then collected Runners World, so when I saw an advert a year ago for a our race numbers and tour t-shirts and enjoyed a pasta party ‘mystery marathon’ that could take place anywhere in the in the evening, hosted by Haile Gabreselassie himself, who world, I signed up to the mailing list straight away. A couple gave an inspirational pre-race brief and the opportunity for of months later an email announced the inaugural Haile autographs and photographs.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 45 Race day dawned early with some breakfast and a short bus for the female team and SSgt Deans and Cpl Derham for the journey to the start point. We started after the elite men and male team. The Triathlon team now look forward to taking women in a fairly small group of 300 runners. Before the teams forward to compete in the Army Championships. nerves and anticipation could build too much, the gun sounded and we were off.

The course was fairly flat consisting of two laps through the roads of Hawassa in about 26o of heat. The race was amazing with locals lining the route in support, many running sections of the course with me. The last two miles were tough and I ran down the finishing straight dodging Tuk-Tuks, herds of livestock, and accompanied by a large group of local children. The sense of euphoria at the finish, especially when I was met by Haile Gabreselassie was unbelievable. I completed the full marathon distance in a time of 05:11:00.

The post race BBQ held in the evening was our chance to celebrate, with local wine and beer, and to share both our stories and war wounds. The following day there were many sore legs as we all prepared to leave on our various flights, my Minor Unit Male and Female Winners wife and I having a final night in a hotel near the airport before departing to Heathrow early the following morning. 214 SIGNAL SQUADRON From the moment we landed in Ethiopia the whole experience was unforgettable. The atmosphere was OC Maj S Bennett incredible, with a warm welcome from local people wherever SSM WO2 (SSM) McDiarmid we went. I met an amazing crowd of people and left with a new group of friends. There aren’t many times in your life Race the Sun 2014 – by Sig Hart when you meet so many people from all over the world, ranging from to Malaysia, all together for a common On 28 May 2014, 15 of the finest, fittest soldiers, who had love; running. been hand selected to take part in one of the biggest Royal Signals events of the year gathered at the Regimental Gymnasium. Race the Sun is an annual event held at 2 Signal Regiment, consisting of a 15 leg multi activity relay event. Included in this is, kayaking, tabbing, running, biking, orienteering and even a stretcher race acting as the cherry on the cake. Working to a tight schedule, the vans were packed with , racing bikes, mountain bikes and weighted bergans, each with a specific task for the following day.

On arrival at 2 Sig Regt the atmosphere in the mini bus changed. We all knew it was ‘game time’ and a high calibre performance was required if we were to stand a chance at taking silverware back for the already overcrowded Regimental Trophy cabinet.

At 0300hrs, race day was upon us and SSgt Walsh was preparing himself for an up-stream battle, hoping all those bicep curls would see him right paddling his rickety old kayak One of these people is a World Champion… up the river. He didn’t get off to the best start, with an unexpected tumble on the riverbank (which he deftly turned into a shoulder roll) even before he had got his feet wet. 21 Signal Regiment Corps Triathlon – by SSgt Lee Green The race was spread over a large area of York, so keeping The 2014 Royal Signals Sprint Triathlon championships were track of positions was difficult, but every so often news would held at 21 Signal Regiment on Wed 21 May 14. The Sprint be leaked on the RTS Twitter site and speculations as to who Triathlon consisted of a 400m swim in the pool, 21km on the would be glorious that day started to grow. The grand finale bike and a 5km run. Attendance this year nearly doubled consisted of a gruelling weighted stretcher race over 3km. from the previous year with 121 competitors and it is great to Every step closer to the finish line, competitors’ legs grew see the sport of triathlon growing in popularity. Luck was on heavier and heavier. Faces dripping with sweat, hands our side with the weather as glorious sunshine held for the blistered from the stretcher, sun beating down and still they day, creating some dodgy lycra tan lines but certainly improving everybody’s mood. The standard of competition this year was very high with 30 Signal Regiment winning both the male and female Major Unit trophies and 21 Signal Regiment ROG winning both the male and female Minor Unit trophies. The Other Organisation's (non-R SIGNALS units) winner this year was the Defence Academy and the quickest time of the day was Maj Biddulph, who completed the course in an impressive 1hr 51secs.

From 21 Signal Regiment there were some outstanding individual performances from Sig Newey and Capt Sargeant

46 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 marched on! The team left nothing, giving their all, stretcher Though the route changes were ‘swift and sure’ every time, perfectly as we had was only a 4+ rehearsed. Crossing the finish line the team dropped down to which we had all their knees, each taking a brief moment to reflect on the climbed with mammoth achievement that had been endured that day. ease that morning, the The overall results backed the efforts of the 21 Signal prospect of Regiment soldiers that day, and we finished in proud second having the rope place, just minutes away from victory. Already talking of below you as training for next year’s event, the soldiers held their heads opposed to high as they left 2 Signal Regiment for the long journey home. above was enough to make Exercise TIGER BEAUFIGHTER CLIMBER – by Lt Dale the climb that much more Ex TIGER BEAUFIGHTER CLIMBER began in the early hours of unnerving. We all Thu 10 Apr 14. Nine members of 21 Sig Regt plus three got through it seasoned instructors climbed onto the transport to East however, and Midlands Airport. Despite being given a generous 15kg hold under our luggage allowance for a one week trip, LCpl Heavey and Sig instructor's Hart needed to re-distribute the majority of their kit in order guidance we got to accommodate the vast quantities of protein they had our first glimpse packed! The next challenge came courtesy of Ryanair check- of real climbing. in when Cpl Mehar, our Gurkha instructor, tried to get through with a NATO Travel Order. After calling over every Our first climb Ryanair employee for discussions, they were satisfied and Cpl Each day after Mehar boarded the plane with moments to spare! Finally we that, two people were off to sunny Spain, and the rocks of El Chorro. would head off with Mike to try some multi-pitch, whilst the rest improved their leading and overall climbing ability. Sunday however saw a slight change of pace, and we decided The rest of our journey was flawless and at the other end we to tackle the El Camino Del Rai. This ancient walkway lead us quickly found our bags and boarded our train to Alora. Here on a path through the rocks, and though we were clipped in we met up with the owner of our guest house, and he drove at all times our nerves were tested when we were required to us all to El Chorro. The Olive Branch was a friendly and well walk over a steel bar 300m up from the valley floor! We soon placed house within walking distance of more climbs than we reached the comfort of solid ground on the other side and knew what to do with. We had an apartment to ourselves were rewarded with a crystal blue lake for a quick swim. with twelve bed spaces, a bathroom and a kitchen. The Olive Branch also boasted a common room, an honesty bar selling For the rest of the week we climbed to the point of wine and beer, free WiFi, a swimming pool and plenty of exhaustion, all of us conquering our fears and leading some camping space outside (cheaper alternatives to the tough (for beginners) climbs. On day six we returned to the apartments). We were more than happy with our home for area we went to on our first day and proved how far we had the week. There was no time to relax as Chief Instructor Capt come by each leading the climbs which we had struggled to ‘Mad Mike’ Kearney wasn’t about to let the remaining top rope at the beginning. That night we packed our bags daylight go to waste. All the kit came out and we walked and headed to Torremolinos in order to spend a day of R+R 200m up the road for our first lesson. Our instructors taught on the beach. We had a great final day and all had a meal out us well and we all quickly got our first bit of climbing and to celebrate a great trip before our return home for what belaying done before heading back for the evening. appeared to be a glimpse of British summer.

The next day, Capt Kearney took the two best climbers out for a spot of multi- pitch, while the rest of us spent the day improving our skills with WO2 Miller and Cpl Mehar. We all started well and quickly climbed the Top Roping three top ropes which had been set Operation PITCHPOLE – by Cpl Bishoprick up before lunch. In the On 21 Feb 2014, three members of 214 Sqn volunteered to go baking sun of on Op PITCHPOLE. This was the tri-service task to help the the afternoon Environment Agency (EA) evaluate 150,000 flood defences we then over a six week period. On 23 Feb, LCpl Lane, LCpl Learmonth moved on to and I went down to Grantham to conduct a two day training completing course. Expecting a one or two man accommodation room, our first lead we turned out to be sharing a 24 man room which came as a The rocks of El Chorro climbs. bit of a shock to all of us!

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 47 On the first day of training we were told what to look for firma after jumping off the 60ft power fan plummet, we had a when checking a flood defence asset and how to grade each quick change of harnesses and onto the 106ft power fan asset. We were then told that we’d be taking a test – every plummet towering above the treetops. The climb to the top soldier’s nightmare – and that if we did not pass we would be required stamina and there was barely a minute to catch your taking no further part in Op PITCHPOLE. Luckily 98% of the breath before clipping in, counting to three and jump! Finally soldiers passed, which included the three of us. the groups had a quick 15 minutes to change our soiled pants and get geared up for the 80ft giant swing in which a The second day turned out to be just as interesting; we nominated group member was responsible for releasing the learned how to use the gucci equipment issued to us; this latch and sending the group plummeting to the ground, then included an iPad 4; a Windows Surfer 2; a pair of wellies; a shooting 80ft into the sky. It was a truly exhilarating TomTom satnav; a life jacket and a Nokia mobile phone (top experience and smiles were ear to ear all round. of the range kit). It was like Christmas come early and everyone couldn’t wait to get their hands on the shiny new Another activity taking place was trekking in which Cpl Neil equipment. Finally we got to sign for all the kit and our hire Cooper tirelessly led groups to the peak of Snowdon cars which we would keep for six weeks. Some people were alternating his routes each day. On reaching the peak each lucky and got a Ford Galaxy, others less so and ended up with day Cpl Cooper would take a ‘selfie’ on his mobile and it a Fiat 500 or a Nissan Note. We were one of the luckier ones. appeared he had aged 10 years by day four! The routes to the We then went to our respective EA centres to start work. top did get tricky in places and the views were incredible, at Myself and LCpl Lane were working in the Yorkshire area and the peak there was a café and a chance to take in the LCpl Learmonth was working in the North West area. When breathtaking clouds! Many a group did try to convince Cpl LCpl Lane and I arrived at the EA centre in Riccall, York, we Cooper to take the train back down but nobody succeeded, were made very welcome by the EA staff who would be the route down led to Padarn Lake where we joined the working very closely with us over the coming weeks. Kayaking group.

Over the next 5½ weeks we reported back to the EA centre where we were given 2 to 3 days work at a time. Some days were challenging, walking miles on end over rough terrain just to inspect a few assets. Some days were not as bad walking a few miles on pavement within nice towns. During this time we ended up experiencing some random things which we wouldn’t have expected, like being chased by angry swans and having full on debates with farmers about their land.

On 3 Apr 14 we all went back down to Grantham and reluctantly handed back all the shiny kit. We were then given a certificate for the course we had passed earlier in training. Phil Younge, the Project Executive in the EA, then passed on his praise and gratitude to us for all our hard work over the last six weeks. Overall, Op PITCHPOLE was an enjoyable experience; a highlight of mine was having the opportunity to work closely with civilians. The climb up Snowdon

Sgt Marc Del-Valle was the kayak instructor on Padarn Lake. Many of us had never kayaked before but were soon taking turns leading a mini expedition around the canal sections and out into the open water, before playing a few games. Sgt Del-Valle’s favourite was Takeshi’s Castle, in which the kayaks were tied together and we ran across as many as we could before crashing into the water! This was of course very amusing for the trekking group, who were by this time, down at the lake watching.

LCpl Lane assessing bridges

Exercise BEAUFIGHTER TIGER – by Cpl Hale

Sun 27 Apr 14 saw the beginning of Exercise BEAUFIGHTER TIGER, and members of 214 Sqn departed Imphal Barracks in York for the village of Capel Curig in the foothills of Snowdonia, Wales for what was sure to be a great week.

Split into four groups, the Sqn rotated through four activities, one of which was Tree Top Adventures, a personal favourite of mine. Each group had to negotiate a high ropes course in the treetops. Once the group had safely made it back to terra Kayaking on Padarn lake

48 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Mountain biking was at Coed-y-Brennin with Cpl Craig Duckett The Regimental teams worked hard and were rewarded with and LCpl Chris Roberts as instructors. After a quick check of first place in both the male and female minor unit bikes and equipment the groups mounted and set off around competition. In addition, Sig Newey was selected to attend the trails. Everyone in the group then took on a skills course Army Triathlon training. and even competed in a time trial of which LCpl Lee Chilton took 1st place, winning a case of Strongbow, which happened Tri Service Throw Down Competition 2014 - by Sgt Murphy to be Cpl Duckett’s and LCpl Chris Roberts’ favourite, what are the chances?! Of course it wouldn’t be a real day’s biking A female team consisting of Sig Gill, LCpl Smythe and Sgt if we didn’t have someone falling off, so LCpl Shaun Lane Murphy from 220 Signal Squadron left Colerne at 0545 and took the title, naturally this was a bike fault and in no way headed to the Tri Service Thrown Down Competition 2014, rider error. which is the annual Cross Fit competition help at the AAPTI school in Aldershot.

Arriving for registration at 0830hrs, we were quickly briefed on our first exercise (or WOD in Cross Fit terms). Each team member had four minutes to complete a set of Burpees and Dead Lift which increased incrementally; LCpl Smythe was the best out of the team getting an impressive set of 9. The whole team did well however and gave us a good foundation for our next WOD.

Mountain biking at Coed-y-Brennin

On Thursday the groups came together and enjoyed a BBQ. The CO, RSM and SSM, who had taken part in trekking that day, visited the troops and joined in with the festivities. Sgt John Norton made light work of the BBQ feeding everyone in record time.

On the final day the groups and instructors came together LCpl Smythe lifting the world and took part in caving. Sgt Marc Del-Valle led the way with a very tired Cpl Neil Cooper taking up the rear! Once in the mines it was a long walk down a corridor section before The second WOD consisted of a set of 60 Squat Cleans, 60 boarding an inflatable raft across a rock pool. We explored Thrusters and 60 Kettle bell swings, each with 3 rope climbs the disused mines in which we walked, zip lined, abseiled and between them, twice round. Not for the faint hearted! climbed to the surface and the dazzling sunlight. It was a However the female teams attacked the WOD with great way to finish the week as a collective and everybody enthusiasm, managing to get to the second set of exercises took away some great experiences. within the time limit.

220 SIGNAL SQUADRON Now slightly exhausted, bruised and some showing a few rope burns on various parts of the body, we were informed of OC Maj P Stowell MBE the results. The female team had made the cut and were SSM WO2 (SSM) Robertson through to the next round.

Corps Triathlon - by Sig Marsh

The event, hosted by 21 Sig Regt, gave novices such as Sig Gill and myself a taste for the sport and, for seasoned athletes such as SSgt Green and Sig Newey, the course did a great job of putting them through their paces. I remember leaving the pool with a fast time and my first thoughts were along the lines of “I don’t know what all the fuss is about” however it was upon departing on the cycle phase I realized that I must have left my lungs back in the pool, and for good measure, my legs started to scream at me. I decided that maybe I had bitten off more than I could chew but I battled on and kept peddling!

It was about 100m into the run that two angry stitches appeared, joining forces with my still screaming legs. I figured they were probably upset about losing the lungs but didn’t dwell on it as I wasn’t done yet, so declared war on my body. The next few kilometres were an interesting feeling of pain combined with an unmistakable feeling of calm. This sport is like nothing I have ever come across before and was a truly amazing experience. All the way up Sgt Murphy!!

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 49 The semi finals were made up of an 800m sprint as a team The following week (9 – 13 Jun), we deployed on the Exercise followed shortly by a Clean and Jerk ladder with incremental Phase. The main adjustment for some of the Troop was that weights. Sgt Murphy and Sig Gill managed 45Kg however our we would be on Exercise for four days straight, on camp. We strong woman of the day, LCpl Smythe, managed 50Kg. were all looking forward to this to get us out of the hangar and let us test our personal and det admin. Throughout the All in all the team put in a sterling effort in what was a very week we manned our dets 24 hours per day and had a couple demanding competition. We all went away slightly battered of visits from the Squadron and Regimental hierarchy. and bruised but with a sense of pride knowing we taken part and proved ourselves in one of the toughest competitions Every detachment completed at least one night move which within the Tri Service Cross Fit community. reminded us how much more difficult it is to tear down and set up at night, but everyone managed to hang on to all their Exercise SCORPION BEGINNER 1 - by Sig Hillman kit, which was good news. The daytime moves were much easier and we got faster and better at them with each We deployed on the PACEX phase of Ex SCORPION BEGINNER movement. Bring on Ex SCORPION BEGINNER 2 next month! on Mon 2 Jun for a four day shake out to get the members of Bowman Troop back into movement routines, re-siting each Life at ATC Castlemartin - by Sig Beaumont detachment an average of three times each day. The Adventurous Training Centre at Castlemartin is set in the Morale was initially high due to nice sunny weather, however Pembrokeshire National Park and offers a range of supervised our luck soon ran out as for the rest of the week it was typical training ranging from climbing the slabs along the coastline to exercise weather (cold, wet and windy). This was the first various levels of yachting and much more in between. The time most people had done training like this since our days in centre gives units the chance to loan young soldiers to them Blandford; it came back to most of us fairly quickly and the with the aim of producing high quality AT instructors. week soon passed. After being selected from a cast of thousands, I attended the Sig Pattison was one of the troops to raise the morale factor UATL (Unit Adventurous Training Leader) course to become of the PACEX by initially running his generator on kerosene. an instructor at Castlemartin AT Centre. I received 4 months When his Det Commander, Cpl Scotty Britton, asked him what of concentrated training at the Joint Service Mountain his jerry cans were used for, Sig Pattison confidently replied, Training Centre Indefatigable, where I gained qualifications “Diesel for the Rover and Kero for the Gene”. including Rock Leader Training (RLT), Mountain Bike Leader (MBL), Mountain Leader Training (MLT), and kayak instructor (O2N, K2N) and finally a civilian first aid course.

Since joining the AT Centre I recognise that I have matured professionally, not only as an instructor but also as a soldier. Every week we take students from all parts of the Army and I have taught groups of private soldiers up to colonels. Confidence in yourself and your own ability is key; at the end of the day you are in charge, no matter the rank. I have gained so much more than my AT qualifications; I’ve gained leadership qualities and to coin a phrase, “what makes a good soldier is a good leader of men”.

This is an excellent opportunity for any junior soldier I would highly recommend it for the right motivated individual. One of my best experiences so far has been the expedition I went on. It was a gleaming day and we caught plenty of fish and cooked it on the BBQ on the beach and even had a sneaky pint at the pub, but the best part was seeing Sig Ash Prior’s face when we told him a shark was Cpl Jepson on his first Bowman Ex since Blandford behind his kayak, priceless!

22nd SIGNAL REGIMENT STAFFORD

217 SIGNAL SQUADRON together and prepared for the next day’s activities which were an 0600 PFA, followed by an ACMT. The next morning OC Maj KM Biggins was bright, and after a cold shower we went straight into the SSM WO2 (SSM) S Hopkins PFA which all the Sqn passed and many managed to shave time off the run. The scoff house was a walk away but when Exercise CENTAUR HOPTON 2 - by Sig Butler SSgt Dunn was on time, he was providing shuttle runs for the lads, although it only happened once in the whole week! The Sqn left bright and early on Sunday morning for a live firing exercise in Otterburn. We headed north, with some It was then a quick shower and straight out on ranges for miserable faces on the coach, but a quick stop at Burger King grouping and the ACMT. It rained all day, however Cpl Russell raised the flagging spirits. We arrived at Otterburn at 1800hrs was on hand with the admin team to handout weak coffee to find the weather cold and wet, as expected in the north. and wet sandwiches. It was a long day and the lads were SSgt Graham was on hand to show us our accommodation, happy to be back in the block with a hot shower and rest which was better than first expected. The sections got before an early start on the second day.

50 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 The second day consisted of fire and movement training selected to rescue the other detachment, one obvious choice within the section. We finished the range day with some being Sig Rogerson after the heroics displayed the previous weapon cleaning and MATTs lessons from Lt Owens which, day. After a few hours of trying in vain, the REME was tasked given the time of day, meant there was some tired faces and to come and rescue the Det and turnaround was completed. eyes struggling to stay open. Wednesday quickly arrived and a few seniors left for a football match including SSM All in all the Ex proved to be a very beneficial and interesting Stephenson who was finding life a struggle in the field. The week for all. day included section attacks, everyone carried out the drills fine apart from Cpl Magee who got a below average score! 222 Signal Squadron As well as carrying out section attacks Cpl Crosfield also put on a BCD lesson for the Sqn, which everyone passed. The lads OC Maj H Frost returned to camp from a long day to some hot scoff and a trip SSM WO2 (SSM) J Roberts to the bar to watch SSM Stephensons beloved football team get beaten by Tottenham which was good to see. Kayaking - by LCpl Duffy

The fourth day into the exercise and everyone was thinking The day started with us arriving at the lake. I was rather about getting through the last day and returning to camp, but apprehensive as I do not like water and all the kit was far too an AFT and section in defence exercise was to be finished large. After an initial brief from Lt ‘Big Dave’ Irons I first. All sections set off for the AFT at different times to a attempted to get into the Kayak, however my was fast pace and a hard climb up the hills in Otterburn, but all too tight and every time I pulled it forward the back would was well, as we finished to some cold soup provided by Cpl come off or it would spring up and hit me. Thankfully, LCpl Russell. After a quick water break the sections went straight Griffiths was on hand to help me out and whilst I held the into the last activity of the day. One last weapon clean and back, he used all his strength to pull it over the front rim. We time to pack up before a ‘Smoker’ to look back on the week started with a quick race to get our sea legs, unfortunately for and play some section games including Sig Connelly Sig ‘Death’ Minors he immediately capsized and went into a competing in the strength test which LCpl McInnes was world of panic, flooding the Kayak and attempting to climb on worried about, but just managed to pinch the win. top whilst the rest of us looked on in great amusement. After lunch, we were shown how to do a team rescue and LCpl The lads enjoyed a few beers while Cpl Magee enjoyed a few Griffiths was the first to do a demonstration. He went under shots of Sambuca, which sent him to bed. There were a few the water and was supposed to spin round as shown, sore heads in the morning with the Sqn leaving early for the however the momentum was too great and he ended back trip back to Beacon Barracks. The bus was quiet and the slow under the water. Afterwards we played Marco Polo, but Sig moving traffic delayed our time back to camp, however a Minors was cheating, as he was not saying Polo so he was highlight was when we had a quick stop at the services only never discovered and ended up winning the game. We then to meet the famous Susan Boyle resulting in LCpl Glasgow started a game of tag with a miniature rugby ball, attempting being star struck. We finally arrived at 1500hrs to hand rifles to throw the ball at each other but LCpl ‘Max’ Payne back into the armoury and the Sqn left for a well deserved managed to land a peach of a shot on Lt Irons’ face and bank holiday weekend. knocked him into the water.

Exercise CENTAUR BEACON 1 - by Sig Bennett Climbing - by LCpl ‘Max’ Payne

On 19 May, 217 Sqn deployed on Ex CENTAUR BEACON 1, a Due to the bad weather, we started on the indoor climbing Bowman Exercise designed to help Class 3 and 2 Signallers get wall. We were shown how to put on all the equipment and their workbooks signed off. The week started off with how to belay each other, in case they fell off. After we were antenna and propagation lessons. The group deployed to the shown different climbing techniques and what to do in certain area, splitting into pairs to practice setting up a couple of situations. We then had a bouldering competition, during antennas, including the droopy dipole and horizontal dipole, which we were only allowed to use certain coloured holds to all being dictated by potential Yeoman Cpl Crossfield. get round. The winner was Sig ‘Death’ Minors demonstrating excellent ability by getting past the hardest point, which The next day started with the lads back in 217 garages for everyone else failed to do. Then we completed some basic trailer packing and an LFG recap lesson. Sig Neary was tasked climbs and nobody had any problems. Afterwards we to write an SOP on trailer packing and deliver the lesson to progressed onto climbs that involved overhangs and things the Sqn, which was carried out well. LCpl Tularam then gave started to get interesting! Whilst I was completing an an in depth lesson on LFGs, which the Sqn found very overhang, I struggled right at the very top, was unable to informative, especially Sig ‘SSM’ Topham, who was very reach the final bit, and slipped. After attempting this several passionate about the lesson. times, I threw my teddy out the pram and gave up. As punishment, my instructor Capt Matt Woodman, left me As the week progressed the lads rolled into the PACEX, each hanging for some time in order to think about how I could detachment was tasked to set up in location and gain comms improve my climbing next time. Then Sig ‘Jason Bradley’ with 0. The PACEX ran smoothly with no problems. Taylor tried a different but harder climb and only managed to get two metres off the ground before giving up. After lunch, The weather had been good all week, but as the troops we had another competition where we went around the deployed onto the area for the Comms Ex, the weather soon whole room, Sig Taylor won straight away as he was the only changed. Setting off at 10 minute intervals each detachment one to finish and then we were unable to leave until I reached was required to set up in specified locations and gain comms a certain point, which I eventually was able to do. with 0. Once all detachments had achieved this feat, YofS Howard decided to move two detachments. This Mountain Biking - by Sig ‘Jonesy’ Jones unexpectedly caused chaos. Due to the weather conditions on the exercise area and LCpl ‘I know best’ Cooper's decision The day of mountain biking began with the usual kit issue and making, the two detachments got stuck. Eventually heroics demonstration. After getting the bikes off the rack, we had a by Sig ‘Bear Grylls’ Rogerson managed to free one of the safety and tips brief off Cpl Suman. Sig Fieldon began detachments, leaving one Det literally stuck in the mud. bragging that he was able to pull a good wheelie, however Day 5 was exercise turnaround except for the lucky few when asked to demonstrate this he immediately fell over and

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 51 nearly hit the side of the car. We then set off onto the warm that they were not tired enough and went for an 800 metre up trail, which consisted of lots of little humps and ramps that swim in the lake, whilst the rest of us looked on in disbelief. allowed us to practise our skills and get a feel for the bikes. Then we cycled to the start of the blue uphill track. This took us a while as it was steep in parts and very windy. The second half of this route was very steep and therefore fast downhill. Sig Fieldon set off immediately and we did not see him until we got to the bottom. We then went up a slight up hill to get to the main road. After crossing the road we went onto a very long green route that had some beautiful coastal views. Then we set off down the road and onto a blue track, Sig Fieldon started at the back and attempted to overtake Cpl Hamilton. In doing so, he cut off a massive section but failed to notice the large log and ended up going over his handlebars landing head first in the dirt. Once we got to the bottom we went back to the jumps section, again Sig Fieldon stated that he could catch some air but in doing so he missed the track and went straight into a ditch. After lunch we drove to a red route which had lots of different obstacles to test the skills we had learnt in the morning. It had lots of hard uphills Sgt Simpson glad to be at the top of the hill and the downhill parts did not seem long enough to justify the effort required to get to the top. Everybody had an 248 Gurkha Signal Squadron excellent day mountain biking including Sig Fieldon despite crashing four times. OC Maj S Smith SSM WO2 (SSM) L Rana

248 GSS Educational Visit to the Houses of Parliament – by Sig Deephang Limbu

I am proud to have been in the Brigade of Gurkhas for over five years now but the fact is I am still ignorant about certain aspects of this country and the people I am serving. I am unaware of a lot of British history, being untouched by British politics and its policies. I often struggle to laugh along at the British humour, and am still improving my spoken and written English. This is a challenge many Gurkhas face.

Sig Jones enjoying his cycling

Hill Walking - by LCpl Max Payne

Before we set off SSgt Jay Jennings briefed us on the route that we were going to take that day. Sig ‘Death’ Minors was given the task of leading us on the initial leg and navigated us perfectly to the next checkpoint. The weather was hot and we took plenty of water breaks. The walks were not bad at first but then we hit the first hill! When we got to the top of the first hill we were shown how to estimate travel time using Naismith’s rule. Unfortunately we ended up walking more quickly than we had estimated as LCpl Griffiths and Sig Minors were powering it up the hills. The hills just seemed to Outside the Houses of Parliament get bigger and bigger as the day wore on. Thus, with an aim to educate soldiers from 248 Gurkha Signal We stopped for lunch on the second peak and admired some Squadron about British history and British politics, and more wonderful scenery. It was windy at the top and when LCpl specifically to give an insight into the way that British Griffiths opened his coffee it blew all over LCpl Max Payne. parliament operates, an educational visit to the Houses of Before setting off for the final peak we estimated that it Parliament was organised and led by LCpl Santa Gurung. would take us 45 minutes to get to the top and LCpl Payne There were nineteen soldiers taking part on this visit. The was shocked by this and claimed to be able to complete it in plan was to visit the Houses of Parliament in the morning and half the time. Once we started hitting the steep section, he then the Science Museum in the afternoon. Around 0615, one started running up to the top but shortly after stepping off minibus and a car headed to London. It took three hours to had to take a break once he realised how steep it was. On reach Kensington Barracks where we parked our vehicles beginning the descent we were told there was a café on the before walking to the Houses of Parliament. By the time we way, so we set off with added vigour, looking forward to the reached our destination there was a long queue waiting to ice cream that we would soon be eating. Upon our arrival get through the security check. Around 1045 we were everyone treated themselves to an ice cream and a cold drink standing in the main hall of the Houses of Parliament where and SSgt Jennings regaled us with stories of Champagne our guide was waiting to welcome us. After the welcome, she flavour Magnums that he had been eating in Cyprus. Despite started to give some architectural history about the building. the hot 10-mile walk, SSgt Jennings and LCpl Griffiths decided The building was originally a palace, and the guide recalled

52 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 the moments when Nelson Mandela, President Obama and and compass but found it tough to find the first checkpoint the Queen gave their speeches from the same steps we were itself as the visibility was very poor due to the immense fog. climbing. It felt like we were touching British history. She led However I managed to get all the checkpoints within the time us to different chambers where the Queen and other British frame, as did the others. The distance roughly covered was royalty had spent time on different occasions. It was tragic to about 6km. Sig Bhuwan completed the course with an hear our guide mention a fire that destroyed most of the impressive time of 75 minutes which earned him the reward. original architecture of the Houses of Parliament. The interior Nevertheless it was a very good opportunity to practice and design, brickwork, stonemasonry, paintings and the walls with hone our orienteering skills and most importantly I learnt how magnificently sculpted artwork were really interesting and to stay calm and not panic in a foggy weather. unlike anything I have seen before. I was amazed with the standard of architecture and designs within the building.

After the tour we were ushered to the hall where a Conservative MP from Staffordshire was waiting for us. His name was Jeremy Lefroy and he took us to one of the rooms where we discussed current issues and topics such as the hospital, the university and local roads. Around 1315, we finished our discussions with the MP and headed towards Kensington Barracks to pick up our vehicle so that we could visit the Science Museum.

Listening intently to Cpl Paras...

In the afternoon it was time for mountain biking which I looked forward to the most. To our surprise the day turned out to be pleasant and sunny which was not expected. Mountain biking was a thrilling experience with challenging terrain and different routes taken by the instructor, Sig Bhuwan. The majority of the group had previous mountain biking experience, but a few of us, like me, were novices. I was dreading the steep, undulating terrain and sharp turns on the route. This made me reluctant and slower in the group. However after guidance from the instructor and imitating the With Staffordshire Conservative MP Jeremy Lefroy other riders, I gathered up the courage and was eventually riding and keeping up with the others in a matter of time. The Around 1415 we drove to the National History Museum. On adrenalin rush going downhill and near misses in sharp turns the way we passed the Royal Albert Hall and the London was insanely exhilarating. Thankfully there were no accidents School of Business and Music. We were given one hour to and everyone got back in one piece with stiff and tired explore the museum on our own. The museum was mostly muscles but with smiles on everyone’s faces. Eventually after filled with displays about biology, meteors, the eco-system, an exhausting day we returned to Stafford and to boost our marine biology, rocks and diamonds. The best part for me morale we had some Gurkha messing and prepared for the was the Kohinoor Diamond which was magnificently shining next day. with its flawless cuts and edges. Around 1530, we finally finished our educational tour and headed back to Stafford. Overall, the educational visit was inspiring and certainly widened our knowledge about British culture and its political history.

Exercise OSCAR KHUKURI – by Sig Uday Limbu

After a series of exercises and a busy schedule, some outdoor activities were needed outside camp for a change of scene. Realising this, LCpl Raj organised a series of activities over two days which began on 12 Mar 14. They involved Before the Bell Boating! orienteering, mountain biking, bell boating and fishing in Cannock Chase and Stoke-on-Trent. The following morning, we set off for Rudyard Lake, Stoke-on- Trent. Upon arrival, we met the bell boating instructor, Ray, Early morning on 12 Mar 14, the enthusiastic participants were who briefed us on the day’s event, safety points and a brief fully geared up and gathered in the Troop lines to be briefed history about the place. Regardless of the weather, the about the next 48 hours. Two mini buses set off at 0900 from scenery, historical castles and swans in the lake were Stafford towards Cannock Chase. Upon arrival, Cpl Paras picturesque. We were split into two groups. Initially we were (orienteering instructor) immediately split us into two groups familiarised with the boat and were taught different and briefed us about the orienteering event. We were techniques and how to operate the boat. As soon as we got provided with a map and a compass. The objective was to the gist about how to run it, everyone wanted to have a race find a series of checkpoints within a two hour time frame immediately! It was a good laugh and my group was using one’s map reading and orienteering skills. To add some victorious most times. Concurrently, others interested in excitement to the activity there was a reward for the person fishing were also engrossed in the hope of catching big fish. who completed the course with all the checkpoints and in the Nonetheless by the end of their session they managed to shortest time. Hopeful of the reward, I set off with my map catch about 15 mini fish (sidra) which we showed to the local

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 53 fishermen. After the lunch break, Ray decided to introduce a and the track events, including myself winning the 100 and tug of war competition between the two boats to add some 200m sprint; that helped boost morale; in fact our team extra fun which also turned out to be a ‘man test’. Again my performed extraordinarily on both the field and track events team was triumphant. Once that had finished, our OC Saheb even without our best long distance runners namely SSgt Tim Capt Surendra thanked and presented funds raised for the Cooke and SSgt Dan Peake. Rudyard Lake Trust Charity to our instructor. Finally, we finished the day in a local pub where the losing team bought A week later, Lt Dave Irons selected a fantastic team from all the winning team a round of drinks. the Squadrons to represent the Regiment to compete in the UK Midlands Athletics at RAF Cosford. This time around SSgt Tim Cooke from 252 Signal Squadron was present. Upon arriving at the stadium we were shocked to see that almost all the Regiments competing were in their tracksuit outfits showing how professional they were. In fact, our morale went down drastically but luckily SSgt Tim Cooke and Lt Dave Irons won their track events, so that boosted morale. SSgt Cooke then displayed his talent again to win the 5000m and 10000m. The result was finalised and surprisingly 22 Signal Regiment were crowned as the 2014 Major Unit champions for the very first time. That gives me another medal to add to my catalogue. Hooray!

Suren Saheb presenting money raised for the Rudyard Lake Trust Charity

Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the two days. All of the activities gave us the opportunity to build team cohesion, coordination, trust, courage, leadership, good communication skills and team bonding. I look forward to more events like this in the future.

252 Signal Squadron

OC Maj AB Arthurton SSM WO2 (SSM) S Middleton LCpl Assoun receiving his trophy Athletics - by LCpl Assoun 252 Management Education Day - by Sgt McGinn In the early hours of Thursday 8 May 2014, 252 Signal Squadron headed out for the usual annual Regimental With ARRC Headquarters receiving an extended bank holiday, Athletics Competition in Stafford. This is one of the few Maj Andy Arthurton decided it was a good opportunity to opportunities for us to move out from our comfort zone to implement a management study day. This consisted of show our athletic talent. Our journey from Innsworth was discussing the different styles of leadership including Adair’s very smooth and we arrived in good time. Upon arrival it theory. With audience participation blossoming, it was time started raining heavily and we thought the whole event might for Mr Paul McCarter, guest speaker, to address the be postponed, but it stopped raining 40 minutes later. As auditorium. usual we all gathered and had a bit of socialization before the event brief by the captains. Paul served as a Royal Signals Officer for 12 years and is now an Executive General Manager for a communications Due to work related commitments our Squadron was missing company. He opened with an icebreaker; sharing his life to most of its famous athletes so it was very hard for Sgt Terry date and expressing moments which projected him into the Barnaby to pull together a full team. He eventually made up a entrepreneurial director and business leader that he is today. wonderful team with new faces which included Capt Chris His wealth of knowledge and experience was evident to us all McGrath, Sgt Gareth Thomas, Sgt Dean Forsyth, and Cpl after just hearing a few words. We partook in some activities Michael Purcell. With the support and the presence of our that homed in the importance of group contribution and seniors at the stadium we started winning most of the field benefits of asking for input rather than demanding a narrow command. He also offered £10 to anyone that could explain

Team 252 Borneo Troop utilising all their finesse

54 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 why he had the bottom button of his waistcoat undone; a the coin flip, with 30 Sig Regt winning and electing to field trait started by Edward VII but as nobody knew the £10 went first. back into his pocket. Despite LCpl Sarah ‘Gringo’ Wheeler scoring her first rounder The second phase was a short journey to Gloucester 22 Sig Regt could only manage 4 rounders. 30 Sig Regt took Club. There we split into groups of unquestionably mixed the bats after a mini war dance. The first hit was strong and abilities. It was not a warm day and just looking into the dark high into the sky. Sig ‘Lexi’ Ray executed a perfect combat brown murky water of the River Severn, you could tell that roll and emerged with the ball safely in one hand, much to the the water was going to be freezing. WO2 (SSM) Sean delight of Capt Taft. The big hits kept coming from the 30 Sig Middleton decided on wearing a bright orange t-shirt with the Regt team and at the final standing they emerged victorious, word ‘COACH’ written of the back; an observation that he winning 7 – 4. chose not to illustrate to us on the river. Sgt Elf Watson made it known that he was a weak swimmer and that he The competition was enjoyed by all, despite the atrocious would require a lifejacket before assuming the responsibility weather, and many thanks go to Capt Taft of 252 Signal of ‘Stroke’ on the three man boat. Within seconds, Sgt Squadron for all her hard work bringing the Corps together Watson was in the water clinging to the boat for dear life and for this event. almost took Maj Arthurton with him. Team Borneo Troop were easily the sprightliest on the water; I put this down to SUPPORT SQUADRON the high expectations of the civilian coach and the fact that he didn’t stop shouting at them the whole session. OC Maj J Renshaw SSM WO2 (SSM) N Marshall The final part of the day was a garden party at the OC’s house. The food was incredible and the drink was plentiful. I This last period has been business as normal for Sp Sqn with particularly enjoyed the venison steaks. All in all it was a well the usual pace of life lifting slightly to allow the Sqn to get in prepared and enjoyable day. some hard earned leave. Once back after Easter the Sqn found time to invest in our junior soldiers with a cultural trip Juniors Paintballing - by LCpl Sean Hunt to the National Memorial Arboretum as well as conducting MATTs training, pre-CLM and preparation for the Regimental While the Seniors and Officers were being educated, a small Battle Camp in July. We now have a 2 week AT package to group of juniors took advantage of this and went paintballing. look forward to which will push our soldiers outside of their comfort zones as well as provide a great opportunity to do The day started off with a rigorous kit check, which LCpl activities they would never normally undertake. Christopher ‘Evo’ Evans failed spectacularly, sporting a pair of shorts much to his regret later. We mounted the bus and The Sqn has also managed to get off to a flying start in the went straight to McDonalds for a nutritious breakfast. Having CO’s Competition with 2 wins in quick succession, firming up consumed the majority of our recommended calories for the our status as being the team to beat. We now need to week, we arrived at the battlefield. Split into two teams with capitalise on our success and increase our lead over a very very imaginative names: Team Red and Team Blue, the competitive field. On on! civilians attached to the Blue team had no idea what they had let themselves in for! National Memorial Arboretum – by Sig Cook

The first two games were capture the flag. The Reds took the On 20 May 14, 23 soldiers from Sp Sqn visited the National early high-ground and captured the Blues flag; something that Memorial Arboretum. After we received our brief for the day was repeated in the second match, thanks to some disregard we left camp with everyone looking forward to the day ahead to the rules by the Reds. Cpl Michael ‘Percy’ Purcell made a as we had heard many good things about the memorial, with heroic defence of the red flag, securing the victory. The only a few having visited before. As we arrived we boarded a subsequent two games were defending balloons scattered small train that would take us around the arboretum with a around the battlefield. Once again the Reds dominated the recorded tour guide being played giving us an insight into a battlefield. The day was concluded with a BBQ. The day large number of memorials. It was the best way to see the fostered a good team ethic and the competitive spirit of the site as no walking was involved and it enabled us to learn Squadron shone through. about all the different organisations represented at the memorial and we covered a lot of ground in quick time. Royal Signals Rounders Tournament: a 22 Signal Regiment Perspective - by LCpl Sarah Wheeler

Capt Abbie Taft organised a Corps wide Rounders competition taking place on 8 May. The competition kicked off at 0900hrs at Imjin Barracks, the home of the mighty 252 Signal Squadron, with teams from 30 Sig Regt, 2 Sig Regt, 3DSR, 14 Sig Regt and 22 Sig Regt.

During the 30 Sig Regt v 22 Sig Regt match, Sig ‘Lexi’ Ray hit a number of blinders and scored three rounders which won the match for 22 Sig Regt. Cpl Emma ‘Gilpig’ Gilbert scored a rounder against 3 DSR, along with Sig ‘Franbo’ Gallagher who stormed past fourth base. Throughout the competition Capt Taft was supporting heartily from the sidelines. At the end of the round robin, 22 Signal Regiment stood at the top, having emerged victorious in all 6 matches.

After the rainy lunch break it was decided that the top two teams would face off for the Cup. Cpl Amie ‘Jelmo’ Jelf for 22 Sig Regt and Sgt ‘the Max’ Lomax for 30 Sig Regt faced off at We will remember them

Continued on page 58 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 55 Race the Sun 2 Signal Regiments annual Race The Sun event was once again a resounding success, featuring 29 teams from across the Armed Forces and a foreign contingent of Dutch Marines, a total of approximately 550 competitors. In spite of its longevity within And they’re off! Race The Sun 2014 begins at 0500 with the the Corps, the event remains a significant logistical challenge Canoe / Kayak race for all involved, as competitors and their equipment are transported around North Yorkshire to different checkpoints marking the fifteen legs of the course.

As with so many events of magnitude, the day in question often appears as a tiny dot on a far-flung horizon until, seemingly by surprise, it is all too near and looming large. On 28 May competitors descended on Imphal Barracks, filling the gymnasium and vehicle garages with camp beds and the lively sound of excited anticipation for the following day. With the Team Captains’ brief delivered, T-shirts distributed, and last-minute questions taken care of (‘No, 299 Signal Squadron, I do not know where a spare canoe can be found eight hours before the race starts’), there remained very little to do but get what part of a good night’s sleep remained. 21 Signal Regiment approaching the end of Leg 1 Before long Imphal Barracks was the proverbial hive of activity as generators kicked into life, vehicle engines hummed, and the first wave of competitors approached the Start line (complete with BAE Systems banners, for which many thanks!). With a final brief from LCpl Williams, and Regimental Photographer Cpl Johnston in position, there remained only seconds before Brig Wilson, air-horn in hand, unleashed canoeists and Race The Sun 2014 was underway. With a removal of previous years’ restrictions on the type of boat allowed, there followed a sterling performance by Maj Jim King of 30 Signal Regiment, who knocked twelve minutes off his time in 2013 to finish Leg 1 in just under thirty-six minutes and giving his team-mate a three minute lead in the River Run.

However, just an hour later all bets were off as 18 (UKSF) Signal Regiments entry overtook the man from 30 Signal Regiment, making up a five minute gap and finishing the run a full minute ahead of the next competitor. This leapfrogging continued for the duration of Stage One (Legs 1 to 6), and although neither team routinely had the very fastest individual runner on each leg their overall lead was unsurpassable. Unseen in the throes of the day, some really impressive times were being achieved by competitors on individual legs; of note were the entry in the River Run by AFC Harrogate (whose time at forty-seven minutes surpassed even that of the winning SF runner), the Hill Run by ITC Catterick, who finished in under twenty minutes, and the blistering speed on the Forced March set by 22 Signal Regiment with a time of under 72 minutes. By mid-morning however, 18(UKSF) Signal Regiment had a strong ten-minute edge over 30 Signal Regiment with 3 Divisional Signal Regiment only trailing a few minutes and the competition looking set to become a three-team endeavour. Of the Minor Units, 21 Signal Regiment, AFC Harrogate and the HQ N6 RNLMC were all very close at the end of this Stage.

The second Stage (Legs 7 to 12) was released at 0900 hours from Cliff Stud near Helmsley; thanks must go to Mr Jake Duncombe for the use of his land, and his children for being out of bed in the school holidays to sound the horn and set the Half Marathon in motion. Odds were reset as 22 Signal Regiment sped over the finish line in the staggering time of 1hr 21mins 27secs, providing a ninety second lead in this stage. This minute and a half was quickly recovered by 30 Signal Regiment who stormed through the mountain biking, but 22 Signal Regiment were hot on their heels and beat them to Dalby Forest over the fell run. At the same time, HQ 2 Medical Brigade were making exceptional progress; having finished 13th of the minor units in the Half-Marathon, they made significant gains on the mountain biking and ran third into Dalby Forest, narrowly behind HQ N6 RNLMC and 4 YORKS. Orienteering (Leg 10) was given a makeover for this year, bringing it into the 21st Century with the use of Corps-owned electronic equipment (sourced and organised by Maj Sally Calland and Capt Kirsty Davies- Walters), eliminating doubt over times and streamlining the competition. SSgt Jamie Ranson of 3 Divisional Signal Regiment tore through the course in under RCMO on the loose; 2 Signal Regiments Capt 40 minutes to put his unit back in the lead but the indomitable 30 Signal Liam Tosh transitioning onto his bike for Leg 3, Regiment closed the gap and clawed back an impressive time over the Cycle ably assisted by Cpl Cook Orienteering (Leg 12). It was a great shame that tampering by members of the public with signage in the forest resulted in a number of runners getting

56 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Race the Sun temporarily geographically confused (we would never say “lost”), and by Lt H L Joseph, 2IC Race The Sun the sensible decision was made to cancel all times from the Forest Run (Leg 11). Photographs by Cpl R Johnston (SPS)

Meanwhile, the crowds were gathering at Castle Howard for the beginning of the Lake Swim (Leg 13), another massed start, leading into the Bike / Run (Leg 14) back into camp. The first three competitors out of the water (10 Signal Regiment, 1 Close Support Battalion (REME), and 32 Signal Regiment) exited in a twenty second window and all under seventeen minutes, which is no mean feat. HQ R Signals was incredibly close behind, with Lt Col Coatsworth but 21 Signal Regiment, whose swimmer exited fifth, pipped them all to the post as the first team to have a runner back onto Imphal Barracks.

The event finale, the Stretcher Race, commenced at 1700 hours and saw teams battling one another in a course 22 Signal Regiment en route to a comfortable win in around Imphal Barracks, determined to beat the the Half Marathon bottlenecks and avoid crashing into each other with their 60kg loads. AFC Harrogate was the runaway winner of this event, finishing in under fourteen minutes, followed closely by ITC Catterick. However, these scores alone were not sufficient to displace other teams in the Minor Units event, and for the Major Units even after coming fourth in the Stretcher Race, 30 Signal Regiment remained on top across the day. Times for the winning three teams from each category are published below and the timing spreadsheet from across the day has been released to Team Captains for the benefit of curious parties.

Believed to have started in 1990, Race The Sun’s next iteration will mark 25 years annual sporting competition – a fantastic achievement for all involved. It remains only for 2 Signal Regiment to thank those who took part for their effort, enthusiasm and their patience; the unit looks forward to hosting what will surely be another excellent day and especially HQ 2 Med Bde giving it their all on the Stretcher Race anticipates the return of the defending champion units, both Major and Minor.

Results Winning Major Units 1st 30 Signal Regiment - 12:23:05 2nd 3 Divisional Signal Regiment - 12:37:05 3rd 18 (UKSF) Signal Regiment - 12:49:44

Winning Minor Units 1st HQ N6 RNLMC Dutch Marines - 13:35:32 2nd 21 Signal Regiment - 13:44:22 rd Brig Wilson presents 30 Signal Regiment with the 3 ATR Winchester - 14:02:57 prize for winning Major Unit

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 57 After our tour finished we revisited some of the memorials our minds we started dropping targets. The team scored 311 where members of the group gave short presentations on a points out of a possible 400; a commendable score as this put number of different cap badges and organisations that make us in the lead with only 2 teams remaining. up Sp Sqn or have been utilised by members of the Sqn in difficult times. The final memorial we covered was the Armed It was with great pleasure that Sp Sqn retained the title, Forces Memorial which is truly impressive. After the beating our competition by over 2 minutes on the march and presentation for this memorial we were given a few minutes 2 points on the shoot. With bragging rights confirmed the to spend reflecting on our thoughts and paying our respects team set about the Regt with an air of arrogance and a spring before we laid our wreath to honour those fallen. in their step. Get in!

The day was a resounding success and greatly enjoyed by all Inter Sqn Athletics who attended. It was uplifting to see that as a nation we are eternally grateful to all those who have sacrificed so much to The day after the March and Shoot saw the Inter Sqn Athletics give the rest of us our freedom. We will remember them! take place at a local sports stadium, SSgt Karl Hannah taking the lead for Sp Sqn. With the final team decided track side, CO’s Competition – March and Shoot they set about what seemed an impossible task of winning yet another trophy, however, with the 3 wins out of a The CO’s competition is a great opportunity for the Regiment possible 3 for the team captain, the rest of the team began to to get together and instil a competitive spirit amongst the realise that an overall win might be on the cards. soldiers. The opening event to this year’s competition was the March and Shoot, an event that we won last year by a Having destroyed the competition in most field events the whisker so were keen to put some distance between us and attention switched to the track. We had some commendable the field Sqns. The event is a 5 ½ mile march carrying 15Kg efforts by all team members, particularly Pte Atta Kruffie who PLCE with the last half mile having the added burden of an ran the 1500m back to back with the 5000m, enough said! 80Kg stretcher. We knew what we had to do and with a Para trained SSM on the team we knew we were going to be quick. With 3 events left the overall winner was still undecided. The With a time of 51mins 58secs we had bettered our previous team put their top runners forward to race the relays where time by nearly 2 minutes. everything can go either very right or very wrong. With some further outstanding performances the team did enough to secure the title and add to the Sqn’s winning total of 2 events out of 2. We now look to the driving competition and extending our winning prowess over the rest of the Regiment.

WO2 SSM Marshall scoring well!

With barely enough time to fit ear defenders we went straight into the range for the shoot. Scoring rings had been marked on the targets and with the marksmanship principles fresh in The winning team

30th SIGNAL REGIMENT BRAMCOTE

CO Lt Col NM Stokoe OBE We say farewell to Capt Dougie Icke who leaves us to become RSM WO1 (RSM) K Dade Quartermaster Technical at 21 Signal Regiment, and is replaced by Capt Tony McBean who joins us from sunny SUPPORT SQUADRON Catterick. Capt James Harryman and WO2 Andy Naylor both depart the Training Wing, with Capt James Harryman’s OC Maj G Greaves posting to Brunei being applauded by all. The OC LAD Capt SSM WO2 (SSM) R Widdison Neil Allcock MBE leaves us to join the ECI Team in Aldershot and takes his annoying ‘airborne’ answer phone message and Support Squadron continues to support all deployments and music with him – he will be dearly missed. Both WO1 (ASM) exercises, as well as preparing for ECI inspections and MATTs Mark Carberry and WO2 (SSM) Jim Womble leave us to join and military training opportunities. Departments have been Civvy Street and we wish them both the best of luck for the encouraged to take advantage of a healthy Sp Sqn Fund and future. Capt Al Fraser joins us on commissioning and takes up the Squadron 2IC Capt Dougie Icke has been inundated with his appointment as UWO and OC PRI to the delight of Capt requests for ‘team-building days out’ – with go-karting being Dougie Icke who at the time of writing is enjoying the he clear winner followed by ! experience of one job for his remaining month in post. Lastly,

58 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 congratulations to SSgt Ritchie Widdison who has been given local WO2 rank and selected to stand in as Sp Sqn SSM.

Exercise DARING DYER – by LCpl Anderson

Systems Engineer Troop is split into two very distinct workforces; the Day-Walkers of the R&I and Installation section and the Dark-Knights of MSPGH DII engineers. Once in a while they get together for some much needed social interaction and team bonding, otherwise known as a “geeky love-in.” Ex DARING DYER was such a day and on 29 Apr 14 SE Troop set off for the National Memorial Arboretum as the first part of the team-building exercise as organised by Cpl Max Sila and Cpl Mohammed Hassan-King. Once we had reformed and received our marching orders we made straight for the Royal Signals memorial. Our most junior member, Sig Josh Smith, laid a wreath and gave the following passage:

“We are gathered here today to pay our respects to fallen soldiers throughout the years and to make sure they are never Whose idea was it to give command tasks to CS Engineers? forgotten and are always remembered for their courage and commitment,” followed by the Ode of Remembrance. scenery for words which help you obtain a code to submit for prizes. It was rather tricky and a couple of groups came We then observed a solemn two minute silence. Upon together to figure out a clue, others instead threw in ‘red completion we were encouraged to explore the picturesque herrings’. At one point all the groups were stuck in the gardens and contemplate the sacrifice and camaraderie churchyard, searching for a gate which may or may not exist. experienced by our predecessors.

Thereafter we regrouped and made our way to Whitemoor Lakes adventure centre for some aerial antics. Once harnessed to the massive climbing frames, we were told not to race, so naturally every man jack of us left scorch marks as we rocketed into the stratosphere. Even the petrified Sig Mike Horton put on a brave face as he defied gravity by travelling in an upwards direction. Jumping and Falling also took place as the especially brave attacked the Leap of Faith. LCpl Mohammed Hassan-King wasn’t content with one successful attempt. He (or someone speaking for him) demanded the bar be moved as far as it could go. Needless to say he didn’t make it. LCpl Nathanial Bramham-Exley leapt too far, bounced off of the bar he was supposed to catch and spun off like a Catharine wheel.

There was also a seesaw in midair with room for two; those two would invariably face each other in combat, LCpl James Anderson was paired with Cpl Max Sila, a friendly Fijian with a The Leap of Faith as demonstrated by LCpl Ben Allison thirst for blood who was deaf to cries for mercy. The play ended with a box stacking competition that played more like But there could only be one winning team and they were: Sgt Jenga, except you were actually on the tower when it fell. Brian Edwards, Sgt Brian Milne and Sgt Lee McClarence (*Fix!*) who were the last group to leave and the first to return, with the correct code too.

Finally we withdrew in good order to the George and Dragon pub for some hot scoff and chilled drinks.

Exercise APHRODITE ENDURO 14 – by SSgt Anthony Ingoe

On 13 May 14, I joined the recently posted 30 Sig Regt RQMS WO1 Scott Tomblin and SSgt Steve Taylor on Ex APHRODITE ENDURO 14 - an Army Gravity Enduro training camp in Cyprus. The camp was to include a number of riding days to help acclimatise and gain some training in the Gravity Enduro discipline, and then the team would also take place in the ‘Mountain 2 Sea’ race.

On the first day of training we were all eager to get the bikes assembled and get out on the trails around Troodos and Mount Olympus, where the team were located for the week. SE Tp and MSPGH gather to pay respect to our fallen soldiers As we were all a little over excited as to what was ahead, WO1 Tomblin and his Canyon were to become the first in a long list The last phase was a treasure hunt through the village of of ‘Bike Faults’. Unfortunately he noticed when we were only Alrewas, sourced by WO1 (FofS (IS)) Jeff Sigston. Like 8kms into the ride that he had lost a ‘Chain Ring Bolt’. In fact orienteering but with clues which have you searching the local he had forgot to tighten them all up and very nearly lost his

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 59 front crank. As he could not carry on we had to find a local This then caused the wheel to dislodge from the bike. At this bike shop in order to get the problem fixed. It was here that point he knew that the bearings were completely seized and we met Socrates, the shop owner and also a fellow he had to retire from the race. WO1 Tomblin and I decided to competitor in the race. He agreed to meet up with us later crack on with the race and set a time even though we would that afternoon and take us riding. When we met him and his be disqualified for not finishing with all team members. We team in Troodos square he informed us that we would be kept on passing teams and knew that we were flying. We had doing the full race route. A perfect opportunity to get a full passed all teams that were in front of us except the first 3 recce of the route done and gain some local knowledge. that had started, and then it was my turn with the problems. Socrates and his team then preceded to beast us around the In the final 5km I got a puncture. This cost us 5 to 6 minutes 60km route with very few stops and very little shade. A little on our final time. Once it was fixed we managed to cross the under prepared for this we all seemed to suffer in some way, line in 2hrs 45mins, a time good enough for 4th place if we except for WO1 Tomblin who rode strong. SSgt Taylor spent hadn’t been disqualified. The only teams to beat us were the the majority of this ride keeping one of the locals company, Cypriot National Triathlon team, BMC racing team and a team Jason Hercules, as they plodded up the hills. from one of the local units.

The next day of riding saw the team take on the ‘Atalante As all of the bikes were in need of a lot of attention no more Trail’ around the top of the mountain. The day was to be riding could be done. This sadly meant that we had to retire hampered by more bike faults and the first was with Steve to the beach and work on our tans. Taylor and his almost new YT Industries. His rear brake was not playing well and required bleeding to sharpen it up. After quite a few attempts we quickly realised that something was not right. When trying to put the brake back together Steve managed to drop the ’Bleed port screw’, a small screw that seals in all of the brake fluid. We all then spent a good 30 minutes trying to locate the small screw that had fallen into an overgrown abyss. After a few hours and YouTube videos we managed to get the brake working properly and could head out. Once on the trail the problems kept on rolling. We managed to break spokes, acquire 10 punctures and also broke a Reverb suspension seat post. This meant a trip back down to the shop, and the opportunity for the locals to once again take all of our money to sort the problems.

The day before the race we then took the time to look over the bikes and to ensure they were fully working. This was then to be the start of SSgt Taylor’s demise and the start of the end for the YT. We had discovered that the rear wheel bearings had completely seized, and no matter what we did we could not get them to run smoothly.

3 men and a wheel

Support to Exercise JUBILEE CHALLENGE – by WO2 (RQMS) McDougall

Over the period 9 - 10 May 14, WO2 (RQMS) Paul McDougall deployed south to Dartmoor to assist with Ex JUBILEE 3 men and their bikes CHALLENGE (EX JC). The Exercise is part of the 43 (Wessex) Bde Ex Ten Tors that is attended by thousands of competitors between the ages of 13 – 19 competing in teams to navigate Race day, and the team’s morale was a little low as we didn’t and survive 48hrs on Dartmoor over various distances. know if we could start with a full team due to the offending rear wheel. After all the briefs were conducted and people Ex JC is run by Exeter University Officer Training Corps were preparing to start, SSgt Taylor decided to try his best (EUOTC), so apart from the small Regular Training Team the and start the race, even though he knew the bike could event is run by Reservists and University students from the potentially not make it the whole way round. The race was a OTC, giving up their time to allow the event to happen. 60km route from Troodos, down and through the valleys to Lemmings Beach in Happy Valley. There were 36 teams in Ex JC is special as it allows competitors with learning and total that competed, all made up of three team members. We physical disabilities to take part in the Ten Tors event with were the 17th team to set off. We knew we would have a competitors split into ability groups capable of walking routes slight advantage after doing the recce on the Wednesday so of 7½, 8½, 11 and 15 miles over the moors. EX JC Competitors we threw caution to the wind during the first decent. By the race to complete their course on foot, in walking frames and time we were 10km into the race we had over taken 5 teams. rough terrain wheel chairs assisted by carers and OTC We managed to keep the pace going and covered the first Students. This year there were over 250 children taking part 20km in just less than 50 minutes. This pace soon dropped as in some typically horrible Dartmoor weather. the hills got a lot steeper to climb. At the 27km point the offending wheel reared its head again and managed to WO2 McDougall was used (believe it or not) for his comms unwind the axel from SSgt Taylor’s bike. skills in the EX JC Ops room, using and Bowman radio

60 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Royal Signals Inter Unit 7s Competition – by Sgt Le May

The Regimental Rugby team has spent a good few months trying to find its feet with structured training for the lads. What with the high workload throughout the Squadrons and trying to get guys released for games, getting the continuity for training was never going to be an easy task.

The time of year for the Inter Unit Rugby 7s tournament was soon upon us and the hope of returning to the Unit with some silverware was top priority.

A squad of 12 guys from the Regiment with skill varying from Corps players to absolute beginners was put together and deployed on 7 May 14 in the early hours of the morning to arrive at Cardiff, where the competition would be hosted. With no training prior to travelling the thought of silverware seemed distant, which turned the focus of the tournament to ensuring everyone had an enjoyable experience.

With mixed weather on the journey to Cardiff and the clouds looking grey everyone knew that the playing conditions were going to be awkward and would result in a very, very muddy day out. After the initial brief of how the tournament was WO2 (RQMS) Paul McDougall taking time out during Ex JUBILEE going to play out we didn’t have long until our first game. In CHALLENGE on Dartmoor with one of the young competitors fact once we had parked up and the lads had tied their boots it was playtime. 7 players were thrown on to the pitch with nets. These were used for monitoring group progress not even a ball through the hands to play against 21 Sig Regt through manned check points, controlling support and safety who we knew had game experience on their side and had vehicles as well as real time casualty extractions by the Navy brought 2 teams. With only 7 minutes each way the intensity helicopters used to provide safety pick ups for all Ten Tors of the game was high and for the lads with no experience it activity. was a steep learning curve as there was nowhere to hide. All the players stepped up to the mark and held their own but It was great to be asked to go back and assist EUOTC with the unfortunately this was not enough to lose our first game 4 exercise but its easy to say yes when you see what an effect tries to 1, Sgt Brian Edwards scoring our only try. Considering taking part and finishing has on the young competitors. Very the odds were against us this was not a bad margin to lose by few don’t finish, and it’s humbling to see the determination and this proved a good warm up match for our second game and effort shown. of the pool stages where we played against 37 Sig Regt which we won, 4 tries to 0. Cfn Ben Mather scoring 2 tries, one of If you want more information on the event it can be found at which was a superb individual effort, from our own half, LCpl www.tentors.org.uk and R SIGNALS volunteers are always Ryan Ashby and Sig Dan Aspinal with the other two. welcome.

Exercise SWAN STABLES – by LCpl Collin Gilling

On 12 May 14 Support Squadron Personnel departed to Lingfield Park Racecourse. The Exercise was designed to boost morale and promote team bonding within the varying departments of the Squadron. Not long after departing Gamecock Bks we realised Sig Shane Holliman had decided to make his own route card which in turn resulted in him putting an hour onto the ETA.

Once we reached our destination the first port of call was the bar to which we were amazed at the prices at £5 a pint which resulted in some of the guys requesting a pint of council pop instead, much to the bar tenders amazement. As the first race was underway LCpl Lee Branham-Exley was jumping for 30 Sig Regt Rugby team competing in the Royal Signals Inter joy that he had a winner, not realising they had another lap to Unit 7s competition go. Second lap round his horse was still in front at a price of 16 to 1, only for him to place 50p on it. Sitting joint second in the pool stages our last game with 18 Sig Everton Clarke-Duncan and Sig Jake Baron remained busy Sig Regt would dictate what silverware we would play for in throughout the day comforting each other inside the warmth the final. It was a close fought match where we lacked the of the bar area complaining they were too cold to go outside. experience to hold out for a win. 18 Sig Regt took the win 3 Cpl Kev Daley however seemed to pick every horse but the tries to 2, Cfn Ben Mather getting his hat trick of the winner and Cpl Ryan Simpson managed to do the opposite tournament and Sig Dan Aspinal ploughing over for his and walk away with all the profit. Cfn Ben Mathers and LCpl second of the tournament. This meant we would play 22 Sig Luther James were more interested in the ‘fillies’ than they Regt in the final for the Bowl. were about getting winners, which didn’t do them any favours. As a whole, the day turned out to be a success and The pressure was on to win the final not only because we had one that I would be only too happy to organise again! made it this far but a game with 22 Sig Regt was like playing a local derby. Unfortunately it was not meant to be and we fell

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 61 short 2 tries for 22 Sig Regt to take the win 4 tries to 2. Sgt chase hard and put the Regiment firmly back in the lead. Sig Brian Edwards scoring his second try of the tournament and Kishan and SSgt Subarna were lined up ready for the fell run. Sig Josh Padgett giving us the second. Everyone was Although this is one of the shorter legs, it is also one of the disheartened by the result but with the positive feedback of steeper. the whole day from the lads we have given ourselves something to build on and will be back throwing the egg for Next was the orienteering leg which was run by SSgt Hem 30 Sig Regt in the inter Unit 10’s tournament in June. and WO2 (RQMS) Sim. At this point we were unsure of where the team ranked in the standings. Leg 11 turned out to Race the Sun 2014 – by SSgt Ingoe be a bit of an unscheduled training session for LCpl Moore. The tac signs were unfortunately pointing in the wrong On a cloudy Wednesday afternoon the team from 30 Signal direction and all but one team completed this leg. Therefore Regiment set off in anticipation to Imphal Barracks, the the leg was neutralised. The time then came for the second hosting venue of Race the Sun. Upon our arrival we were of the orienteering legs, this time on bikes. Cpl Calladine and steered into our make shift accommodation and shown to our Cpl Gibson teamed up for this one in order to get round in the ‘pen’ where we would set up camp. fastest time possible.

Maj Jim King was our first competitor. Like a man possessed Another mass start was waiting to go, SSgt Chilvers and Sig he paddled us into an early lead, leaving all others standing. Williams waited at the side of Lake Castle Howard. As the LCpl Ledger was next and eagerly awaiting the arrival of Maj horn sounded all of the competitors ran towards the freezing King so that he could get his leg underway. In front of him cold lake. Sig Williams was perhaps the surprise of the day as was a gruelling 10km river run. WO1 (RSM) Dade and I were she swam like a majestic swan skimming over the lake. Now nervously pacing up and down at the beginning of our leg we had the penultimate leg and this would see Capt Tom waiting to start. After 18 (UKSF) Sig Regt had overtaken us Collins and WO2 (YofS) Williams tackle the 24km bike and on the previous leg we both knew that we would have to 5km run. The last and probably hardest leg of the day was chase hard to close the gap and potentially regain the lead. the gruelling stretcher race. Sig Watson was our man to do the streaming run and got round the pitch as fast as he could. LCpl Donnelly was a quiet but strong character on the stretcher, always willing to lead the charge towards the next team. Sgt Allan was another solid performer who tried his hardest to get us round. As we started the last lap of the stretcher race Sgt McClarence took a tumble and almost took out a few spectators.

30 Sig Regt Stretcher Race Team – all the way to the line!

That was the end. All we could do now was wait for the results to be tallied up. “And the winners are………” we SSgt Ingoe powering out of transition were all listening attentively, “30 Signal Regiment”. We had done it. After two years of trying we had finally won Race the Sun once again. WO2 (FofS (IS)) Kay was on the start line for the hill run and was completely focused. As he set off he set a thundering pace along the first part of the route. Cpl McCran and Sig John were next to tackle the Forced March leg. This leg played into the hands of 18 (UKSF) Sig Regt and their competitor absolutely flew round the course. The moor run was next and for this we had our secret weapon, Sig Ani, who was raring to go and as soon as he was released shot off like a bat out of hell. Next was the massed start for the half marathon. Running for us was the machine known as Cpl Parr from 244 Sig Sqn (AS). Not one to shout about his talents he simply volunteered for this leg and let his form do the talking.

The mountain bike leg saw SSgt (FofS) Fox and Cpl Ganga tackle the 24km course in slightly damp conditions. With only one team in front of them they both knew that they could Race The Sun Champions 2014 – The Mighty 30

62 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 244 SIGNAL SQUADRON (Air Support) meant swimming amongst beautifully coloured fish was a regular occurrence. We were able to swim with turtles OC Maj J Snelgrove and manta rays in the nature reserve of Tobago Quays in SSM WO2 (SSM) D Seymour the Grenadines. It was a common hope that we would see dolphins whilst there but having them swim alongside the Exercise CARIBBEAN WINGS - by Lt N Keddie boat, jumping through the bow wave was more than we could have anticipated. Having got up in the cold and driven to the Gatwick Airport Hilton in the rain I was bristling with excitement when I The overnight stops at different islands permitted us to met the rest of the crew of Ex CARIBBEAN WINGS Leg 10 in explore them briefly, exposing us to the unique nature of each February. We were an eclectic mix of individuals ready to of them and their history. On some islands English was the fly to St Lucia in order to begin our 2 week voyage upon the primary language and East Caribbean dollars the currency, on HMSTC DISCOVERER, a Challenge 67 Sail Training Craft. This others French and Euros were the norm. Some parts of these tri-service expedition sets sail from Gosport and travels to the islands are only accessible by boat; we were afforded sights Caribbean via the Canary Islands. The yacht remains there for few are lucky enough to have experienced. An afternoon in the majority of the exercise before returning to British waters Tobago Quays meant we could taste the wonderful beach via St Thomas, Miami and New York. BBQ with all the local creole flavours and a stop in Antigua saw us moored up in Nelsons historic dockyard; a fantastic insight Leg 10 was crewed by members of all three services with a into the history of the British empire. We spent the evening at vast range of sailing experience. Previously, I had completed Shirley Heights, the historic artillery look out, which is now put the Competent Crew course at JSASTC and had a week on to use for steel bands, local food and rum punch on a Saturday board a yacht in the Mediterranean. The transition to sailing a night. Our final stop before returning to St. Lucia was much larger vessel, capable of crossing the most treacherous Dominica where we experienced a true assault to the senses; waters on the globe, was a learning curve the skipper and music and dancing everywhere with multicoloured costumes mate were excellent at catering for. I was taken to the limits and BBQs in the street. of my ability and am now a much better yachtsman with valuable experience. Having returned to St Lucia, the final day was spent conducting essential maintenance in the yacht before the On the first day we were introduced to the boat and began next crew arrived. The novices completed the final training our tuition in sailing terminology; a new and daunting tongue objectives to achieve their competent crew qualification to some of the party. The training was progressive and our and the rest of us logged the miles we had completed in first passage, to Union Island, was a chance for us to put the preparation for further sailing qualifications. Travel to the theory into practice. We tacked and gybed successfully to Caribbean is expensive and this exercise should be considered Chatham Bay where we were instructed to drop the anchor a unique opportunity to be grasped wholeheartedly. Grants and get comfortable for the night. However, no exercise is were provided by the Adventurous Training Group (Army) complete without a stag rota and anchor watch had to be and there are numerous other sources applicants can apply staffed. It was here that the inter-service banter really kicked to in order to bring the cost down to a bargain price. I was off; apparently it takes an AT package to educate the RAF that fortunate to have received funding from the Corps AT fund moving objects make poor reference points! and paid less than £500 for this experience. I would like to express my thanks for the grant and a final encouragement to apply for a place on Exercise CARIBBEAN WINGS.

SBMA – Support to Op HERRICK – by Sig Hewitt

A posting to Tampa Bay is not as “cushy” as one may assume. Early morning parades are a regular and gruelling occasion, some lasting 30 minutes waiting to be inspected by our rigid SSgt Sophie Morris. Although this morning it was far more significant, and due to its importance we were instructed carefully for a more than punctual arrival. After a nice early morning we arrived at out location at 0545hrs in true Signals preparation for the start of the parade an hour later.

Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand that broadly commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders “who served and died in all wars, conflicts,

Experiencing some of the colourful Caribbean culture at a carnival on the island of Dominica

As our sea legs grew more stable we began to increase the length of the passages. The longest was in excess of 150 nautical miles and took 24hrs to complete. Being split into watches meant that everyone had a role and getting into routine was essential. Sailing at night can be a dangerous pastime but it proved to be among the most enjoyable aspects of an excellent expedition. The blackness that surrounded the boat was absolute as we sailed across a rolling ocean that was entirely invisible, except for the trail of luminescence behind the yacht. On clear nights the stars were glorious and navigating by them was a pleasure. The Caribbean is breathtakingly beautiful and in daylight the clear blue waters SBMA and his staff with 244 Signal Squadron personnel

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 63 and peacekeeping operations” and “the contribution and suffering of all those who have served.” Originally 25 April every year was to honor the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought at Gallipoli in the Ottoman Empire during World War I. Anzac Day is also observed in the Cook Islands, Niue, Pitcairn Islands, and Tonga. It is no longer observed as a national holiday in Papua New Guinea or Samoa.

The day is very similar to our remembrance, although things are done slightly differently. In true Aussie and Kiwi fashion, considerably more alcohol is involved. This is something I think we as a nation should seek to imitate on future Remembrance parades. LCpl Santosh covering his arcs after clearing an enemy position

The morning started with a Remembrance parade similar to Advance to Contact and Casualty Extraction under Fire. As our own, consisting of the Last Post, laying of wreathes and the day drew to the end the newly formed Platoon came paying our respects to fallen heroes. The parade took place together at Dixie’s Corner and started the Insertion Tab. The on the beautiful golden shores of MacDill AFB, Tampa, in the occupation of harbour took rather longer than expected but early hours of the morning just as the sun came up. At this we managed to get into routine just before last light. After time of day in sunny Florida there is a tendency to become a last light, Night Navigation started. It was almost midnight human buffet for mosquitoes, and everyone left with small when everybody finished this activity. The following day was red marks all over their neck and arms. Shortly after the the Day Navigation competition. It was individual effort, so parade we proceeded to consume our weight in Anzac there was ample opportunity for losing your bearing. Day 4 cookies, several bacon sandwiches, and a couple of early was the section competition day. Sections have to travel morning glasses of rum, the norm when working in this tough almost 12km navigating through the checkpoints and tri service environment. completing the task on every checkpoint. Physical Stand and Military Stand were two of the six checkpoints. The rainy 250 SIGNAL SQUADRON weather even added more value to the training. After the event the result was announced and declared that 2 Section OC Maj J Malcolm was the winning section by some distance. On day 5, all the SSM WO2 (SSM) Sureshkumar Limbu bags were packed and loaded onto the trucks and we left the camp for the final activity, AFT. Everybody was a little Exercise PLATINUM LEADER - by LCpl Mahesh Rai apprehensive for this AFT because we were doing the same AFT route as candidates on SFC selection have to complete. On 28 April 2014, members of 250 Gurkha Signal Squadron But it wasn’t so bad after all. Finish point of the AFT route deployed to Sennybridge Training Area on the 5 day long Ex marked the end of Exercise PLATINUM LEADER, and we safely PLATINUM LEADER organised and run by SSgt (SQMS) made our way back to Bramcote Barracks. Gyanendra Rai. Straight after the 3 week long Ester break, an exercise was the last thing on the mind for many of the Looking back at the Exercise, I believe many of the soldiers soldiers, including me. The main aim of the Ex was to go developed their Leadership Skills, revised their rusty BCCS away from the camp and complete MATTS where there isn’t skills and while doing so finished most of the MATTs for this any distraction. But also to practice BCCS and leadership year. Very big thanks go to the Ex Directing Staffs, especially aspects, which in my view is essential for junior soldiers to the SQMS for organising such a valuable and enjoyable develop their leadership skills as well as build confidence. exercise package.

Sqn personnel completing the AFT at the end of Ex Sig Shante leading the platoon towards a harbour location The Royal Corps of Signals Individual Boxing Championships We jumped straight into the lessons as there were lots of - by Sig Yuwaraj Pun activities to be done within the short period of time. On the afternoon of first day we covered most of the theory lesson From 28 April – 1 May 2014, 30 Signal Regiment hosted the on Navigation, CBRN and Harbour Drill by SSgt (SQMS) second Royal Corps of Signals Individual Boxing Gyanendra Rai. Harbour Drill lesson was the most interesting Championships at Gamecock Barracks' Bramcote. Around 21 because most of us has almost forgotten the theory and skill. boxers from 6 different units took part in the event.

Day 2 started early. During day 2 we managed to do lots of The boxers from the Regt had been preparing for the event practical lessons, namely; BCD, CBRN Practical, Section from early January. The individuals had done an average of 4

64 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 sessions a day, 5 days a week, for 13 weeks. Personally for me from the various personalities around what is 30 Sig Regt, I the hardest part was not the physical sessions that we was informed I would be deploying on Exercise B-RAM on suffered each day; it was the dieting I had to go through to Wednesday 14 May 2014. B-RAM is a Troop level CT1 exercise get my weight down to weight category. Honestly, being a designed to teach, remind and revise members of the Troop Gurkha and missing curry every single day is a huge sacrifice on the set up and procedures within the Operations Liaison to make. Even though the training camp was not easy, our Response Team (OLRT). The OLRT is responsible for coaches (Sgt Al Mousley and Michael Blackburn) had a sound providing a small Ops room and J6 capabilities to JFHQ staff knowledge ensuring that morale also plays a vital role in our to allow staff to provide real time feedback to JFTHQ and training; we had rest planned when team morale was below recommendations for future deployments. the ground level. The team consisted of boxers having no previous fighting experience to some having fought 5 times The Troop deployed under the guidance of SSgt Osborne and before. The coaches made an arrangement to go to a civilian his DS team to Beckingham, East Midlands Training Area at boxing gym and spar with civilian boxers. This was really 0655 Wed 14 May 2014. After a quick check of kit we were beneficial for both the new boxers as well as the experienced off. I was IC OLRT 2, with LCpl ‘Ski’ Perkowski, Sig Harling ones. Having participated in the 1 Sig Bde boxing and Sig McKeague. My team had a wealth of experience competitions, the boxers had gained more experience and it which varied from your usual Bowman training to really made a difference. deployments with this new equipment to places like Ghana. I was in safe hands, knowing I hadn’t got a clue as to what half The 1st of May, as anticipated, was an intense day from the of it did! During the drive to Beckingham, I was treated to moment we woke up for the weigh ins, all the way to the final some DIT spinning from LCpl Perkowski and a rock CD found bout on the night. There were in total 9 bouts in different in the garage the morning we departed. Once in location at weight categories including female bouts. There were 5 Beckingham the Troop were treated to a site brief from Cpl boxers from the unit which included myself in the welter ‘Dixie’ Dixon and a run down of the Exercise and scenario. weight category. The previous few months spent on training and developing our boxing skills was all going to boil down to The teams were deployed to various buildings within this night. Mixed emotions were flying around, mainly Beckingham, EMTA, to set up an Ops room and establish nervousness, but everyone was raring to get into the ring and communications. During the first set up I watched as these do the business. Confidence plays a big part in boxing, and guys worked and achieved comms rapidly. While standing for me personally, my confidence was at an all time high. back and taking note, I made an observation to make life simple to understand. What we do quite simply is similar to what we would do if deployed on a Bowman detachment. You take comms kit, place it into your comms ops area and ensure you provide space for a staff working area. The team, once set up, took me through it all so I could get up to speed and be more of a team asset for the next set up.

At the end of day one we were briefed on the events for the following day. OLRT 2 was to deploy to RAF Digby in order to recce a potential Ops room and provide a presentation on our findings that evening. Timings were given and on READBACK, Sig ‘Skedaddle’ Smith stated we were to skedaddle away from Beckingham at 0800.

The Regt boxing team with the coach (Sgt Mousley), CO, RSM OLRT 2 deployed to RAF Digby, JSSU (D) HQ, Conference and QMSI Room, to recce its potential as an Ops room. Well, safe to say the conference room was far more comfortable than any 9x9 or 12x12 I have ever been in! With brew facilities and DII on As the night progressed, everyone could see that this year’s tap, it was by far the most comfortable of sites to set up in! Corps Championships had brought out many talented boxers. During the set up process I put my new found knowledge to Overall, the 30 Sigs boxing team managed to win 3 bouts out the test and helped with the Dial Up JOCS, TACSAT 117F and of the 5. Sig Yuwaraj Pun was awarded the Best Boxer of the HPW getting comms in to EXCON back in Beckingham. night and LCpl Blackburn was the most Gallant Fighter. These Despite all our frustrations the only item not to work was were both judged by the VIPs that were invited to the event, secure voice over BRENT (BGAN). This was tested throughout Frankie Gavin who is an undefeated British professional boxer the day and still refused to drop in for us. At one point it was and Tom Chaney. For me personally, it was an honour and a so bad that LCpl Perkowski, a broken man at this point from privilege to not only box in front of one of the best boxers in his attempts to try to get it working, nearly lost it when Sig the world today, but also to be awarded best boxer on the McKeague accidentally knocked the power off of the BRENT! night by himself.

Altogether this year’s Corps Championships was a great success and I am looking forward to competing next year.

256 SIGNAL SQUADRON

OC Maj J King SSM WO2 (SSM) J McMahon

Welcome to Bravo Troop, 256 Sig Sqn – by Cpl Gains

Where to start… I arrived into Bravo Troop on 12 May 2014 with a bit of a whimper, not knowing what was to come from a Unit and Troop that I have never been to or have much knowledge of their role. However, with a quick arrival brief Cpl Gains and LCpl Perkowski set up their Ops room

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 65 Sig Harling and I had to take our laughter outside. The stand out candidates were: Cpl Potts who scored a goal at Stamford Bridge, Sig Adams who sang with a band on That evening we had to deliver presentations on our recce for Radio Derby and LCpl Doyle who ended up in St Ives. LCpl the Troop OC, Lt Will Thorogood. This is to simulate giving a Mackie thought out of the box to catch a fish, went to the briefing to officers from JTFHQ on J6 considerations and local chip shop and Cpl Brown wisely got his head down in an recommendations. Once complete we departed to the DS ASDA disabled toilet. A mention must also go to Sig Noble bunk for a debrief where Cpl Dixon and Cpl ‘Walt’ Walton and Sig Cutler who barely managed 24hrs between them entertained the Troop with a series of “knock, knock” jokes before using the emergency number and returning to camp. which went down a treat (they were awful - re show is needed). Bravo Troop departed Beckingham, EMTA, at 0800 to return to Bramcote ready for the weekend. After the usual turn around procedures the Troop knocked off for a well earned break for the weekend.

This was a real eye opener into what my job will be for the next three years and safe to say, I’m looking forward to it all!!!

Exercise JOINT WARRIOR 14 – by LCpl Rajesh

Easter time has arrived again and for Support Troop 256 Signal Squadron this meant one thing, 6 glorious weeks in RAF Halton, supporting JTFHQ ON Ex JOINT WARRIOR.

As the Squadron had just completed Ex SECOND RUN in exactly the same location, the forecast was good for a trouble free Exercise, considering the Headquarters was left built in LCpl Mackie lives the high life in an R8 preparation for JOINT WARRIOR. This opportunity was most welcomed by the busy power team to prepare their kit for a little bit of OJT while preparing to welcome the expected To finish the exercise off on the Thursday we had to deliver a onslaught from the soon to arrive from the JTFHQ Staff five minute presentation to the Regiment with the SSM and Officers. Little did we know what was to come next! SQMS deciding on the Troop who had gained the most experiences and put the most effort into the three days. The All good plans fail first contact as Sig Mickey Williams proved mighty MT emerged victorious even though they could not when he decided to use an electric fire as a coffee table. The switch the projector on. locations RSEs bomb bursting in all directions after the power tripped in full panic mode only confirmed how bad this idea It was a refreshing experience had by all, this reminded us was. Joking apart, a successful exercise was had by all, while that the majority of the public are still 100% behind the British fully supporting the staff in their power requirements. Sig Army even though we are withdrawing from Afghanistan. Williams achieved his Class 2 while demonstrating effectively The kindness and warmth was felt by all. to the newly arrived Class 3 signallers that electricity and coffee do not mix. FACT! 258 SIGNAL SQUADRON

As an RSE deployed on the exercise, from my perspective it OC Maj L Kelly was a huge success and I am constantly being shown that SSM WO2 (SSM) S Watson nothing should be taken for granted. I understand the austerity measures being taken throughout the world but A busy period for the Squadron which has seen us deploy on even I did not expect to pay for my food while on Exercise. our CT1 exercise under its new A2020 designation as Early As all married soldiers know, going on Exercise is the chance Entry Headquarters Squadron (EEHQ). One further for free food and the chance to steal a few proverbial beans. restructure is due in September, which will increase the Squadron’s OLRT capability from 6 to 12; putting the entire As the Easter Exercise season draws to an end, 256 Sig Sqn Regiment’s specialised capability under a single Troop. The MT and power section is firmly focused on the upcoming trip Squadron's role will endure, allowing us to progress through to Ghana on Ex EAGLE STAR, I for one can’t wait. the CT levels, and develop expertise.

Exercise RAM CHARIOT – by LCpl Mackie A new Squadron 2IC joins the team during this period; welcome to Capt Abbie Roberts. The Squadron is also looking Before leave 20 lucky soldiers from 30 Signal Regiment were forward to two periods of Adventure Training in the coming told that they had being selected for a navigation competition month; Ex FLOATING BEAR sails to Greece and Ex TIGER BEAR in Snowdonia. When we arrived for the exercise we were told walks the route of Hadrian’s Wall. the good news from OC 256 Maj King, that we were actually DELTA TROOP told a harmless white lie. Stripped of personal possessions except for our MOD 90 and an envelope containing an OC 2Lt J Willden emergency phone number and an emergency £20, we were SSgt SSgt S Lewis released on the general public on Ex RAM CHARIOT. The aim of the exercise was to test our leadership and initiative The past couple of months have been extremely busy for abilities under unusual and somewhat extreme conditions. Delta Troop but at the same time, it has been an exciting period. We have carried out CT1 training, achieving After the initial shock we were dropped off individually at communications and military training objectives on Ex BLUNT different points across the Midlands with a list of 50 tasks to BEAR; a two week exercise on Swynnerton training area. The be completed over a three day period. These ranged from Troop has also taken over the EEHQ responsibilities and scoring a goal in a Premier League stadium, staying in a five equipment from Alpha Troop, 256 Signal Squadron and star hotel and to appear on TV or radio, just to list a few. started our six month rotation at high readiness.

66 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 For myself, the Troop Commander, it has been a particularly FOXTROT TROOP challenging time, only being posted in fresh from the Troop Commanders’ Course at the end of March. New arrivals also OC Lt D Lenehan include Cpl Chris Hunter and Sig Blain Francis from Support SSgt SSgt G Bufton Troop, Sig Michael Forrest from 256 Signal Squadron and Sig Tom Banks who has arrived having just completed his Phase 2 Foxtrot Troop have just welcomed two new soldiers, Sig Mike training at Blandford. Grigson and Sig Dan Simms straight from 11 Signal Regiment and they have embraced the challenge of being in a busy Further exciting times are still to come for us with Ex troop at their first unit. We unfortunately have to say FLOATING BEAR; an offshore sailing expedition to Greece; goodbye to one of our top Lance Corporals, LCpl Mike Perfect going ahead at the start of July. Also with Ex WINDERMERE as he is moving on to 18 (UKSF) Signal Regiment and we CHALLENGE, where members of the Troop will be putting in would like to wish him the best of luck. many hours in the pool to get them up to standard for the 10.5 mile swim across Lake Windermere. In our new role as EEHQ1, Foxtrot Tp deployed on Ex BLUNT BEAR in order to conduct CT1 (Tp level) Training. The training All in all, this current period of change has injected a new was split into two phases: one being military skills and the lease of life into the Troop and left everyone relishing the other a communications setup phase. The military phase was chance of deploying the EEHQ in a foreign environment. organised and run by SSgt (SQMS) Wes O’Connor and the communications phase was controlled by Lt David Lenehan ECHO TROOP and SSgt Guy Bufton under the watchful eye of NETCEN.

OC Lt S Dunster Exercise BLUNT BEAR - by LCpl Walker and Sig Grigson SSgt SSgt T Fairbairn Phase one of the exercise started with two joyful days of Echo Troop have had a busy few months, with Dets away on ranges. The first day was spent zeroing rifles and carrying out various uplifts and courses over Easter leave, and the OLRT practise shoots, and as you can expect the weather was at its Cadre run by the Training Wing testing and training the finest… chucking it down with rain! Luckily the next day for troops. Ex BLUNT BEAR saw us deploy on CT1 training, an the ACMT, the weather brightened up, improved morale and action packed two weeks involving military skills and nearly everyone achieved marksman. deploying Dets to various locations across the country. That night the Troop moved to Swynnerton Training Area and With LCpl Chris McMahon arriving and six new soldiers into the field. Once in location we set up the harbour area arriving in the Troop from 256 Signal Squadron soon, the and got a good night’s sleep ready for the rest of the week. Troop will be well prepared for taking on the Regiment’s Unsurprisingly, the weather didn’t stay nice for long. OLRT capability in September. The next day, after fire and manoeuvre lessons had taken OLRT Cadre – by LCpl Finch place, the Troop did some rehearsals before going through the attacks in quick time. It was a wet afternoon as the We have had a vigorous few months in Echo Troop, we have section commander decided the river was the best route for been tested on a range of different equipment which will help flanking the enemy. us in our roles as OLRT operators. In January we deployed on Ex SWAN CONNECTION 14, which was our first exercise as a Thursday morning came bright and early with reveille at 0500, Troop and highlighted our lack of knowledge and experience patrolling techniques and orders were the lesson choices of with the kit. Since then, the Troop has come a long way, the day. After orders were given that afternoon the Troop spending all their time and effort learning about how to patrolled to their new harbour area and set themselves up. operate the Dets. With the Troop on edge all evening waiting for an attack, the harbour area contacted at last light and patrols were sent out. Straight after a well deserved Easter leave Echo Troop and We crashed out the harbour area early Friday morning and set Bravo Troop from 256 Signal Squadron went on a cadre. The out on a competition between the two sections: a command cadre was split into two weeks, the first was classroom based, task stall, a re-supply which turned into a casualty scenario and the second was about testing us. The first week we got and a quick-fire questions battle. It was all good fun and the lessons about the job role, recce reports, spot mapping and competitive spirit was shining through. The exercise setting up Ops rooms. We also learned how to use the Dial culminated in a troop attack testing everything they had Up JOCs, Ash and TacSat. learnt through the week. The hard work paid off and ENDEX was called, the Troop headed back to camp to prepare for the The second week came and we deployed to Swynnerton comms phase. Camp in teams of four where our training could be put to the test. A Det Commander was appointed for each team, and Phase two of the Exercise was the first time the Troop had set the command appointments were changed after each set of up as EEHQ. It was all new to most of the Troop so this made tests to give everyone the experience. Once we were set up, for some teething problems with the erection of the tents and had sent our arrival reports and SITREPs, a member of and setup of comms kit. The NER was a stressful environment the DS came to act as a Staff Officer to test our procedures for some Det Commanders, LCpl Joe Moxon in charge of the and briefing, and once they were happy we were given a grid, MAGPIE and Sig Nicole Cotgrave taking the lead on the told who the next Det Commander was and told to tear Falcon, as they tried to get MAGPIE to actually connect to down. Falcon. Seeing as this had only been done 3 times before and not by anyone on the exercise this provided plenty of “oooh- As each new Det Commander came in we worked on the saaaa” moments. problems found each time, and got better and better. Everyone on the course worked hard for the whole two DII (LD) went straight into Falcon and we achieved a link to weeks and we came on loads in our understanding of the kit DII (F) very early on, although this was after deploying both and the job. Echo Troop now can look forward to future SWE Dishes and having believed there were faults on both. deployments around the world, and have proved we have Two SKYLARK maintainers failed to find the cause and it took come a long way since Ex SWAN CONNECTION! two of the old and bold Troop Sgts to realise the motor cable

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 67 was not correctly screwed on! The Housekeeper and DII kept fault us, which led to the dreaded “stand to” being called to their Det Commanders on their toes, providing numerous make sure our security was on the ball. ENDEX was called issues with integration and printing. We may have immediately after they had left and the NER and SWE were experienced less printing issues if all of the printers had been torn down in record time with the whole Troop working rolled out on time... Wednesday saw the arrival of the CO and faster than they had all exercise. Somehow the Troop OC Squadron, however this was pre-empted by the Troop as Sergeants managed to sneak out and buy us all pizzas, we could all smell the curry they had brought over! After sausages and chips for all our hard work, but their “surprise” being on rations all week, this was warmly welcomed by all. was short lived as Sig Bryony Ormsby smelt it straight away. After a full belly and a full night’s sleep morale was high for Staff Assurance Checks were conducted upon the arrival of the drive back to camp, with the promise of a 1200 knock the Squadron Ops team on Thursday and they just couldn’t off… which was just as short lived as the surprise!

32nd SIGNAL REGIMENT GLASGOW

CO Lt Col J Knight MBE this occasion who both delivered a reading in the church RSM WO1 (RSM) W King service. This year’s church collection was in aid of the Erb’s Palsey Group which raised a total of £338.00. The 70th 1944 celebrations weekend in Londonderry The parade followed on from the church service where Dr Garvey inspected the parade with number one guard, 40 The annual dinner hosted by the North Irish Horse, North (NIH) Sig Sqn, number two guard, North Irish Horse, North West Branch Association and attended by Col Denis Desmond West Branch Association and 152 Transport Regiment RLC, CBE Lord Lieutenant, , Col Marv Pipe Band were participating. Dr Garvey presented LCpl Makulowich, Canadian Military Attaché, London and Colonel, Barry Kelly with his VRM and also presented the winning The Lord Denis Rogan of Lower Iveagh, The North Irish Horse team with the Colonel Sir Michael McCorkell Cup for this Association members and 40 (NIH) Signal Squadron members. year’s shooting competition. It was received by Cpl John The dinner was well attended including a survivor of this Colgan of 866 Signal Troop. Dr Garvey then took pleasure in battle, who had flown in from Arizona, USA. He is Sgt Gerry being introduced to Sgt Chester, our veteran who survived Chester, who is 91 years of age and remains fit as a fiddle. At the Hitler Line battle. Afterwards former members met in the the dinner he received on behalf of the North Irish Horse mess where along with guests for lunch were able to Association, a personal framed letter from the current reminisce over stories from the past. General Officer Commanding of the reformed 1st Canadian Division in Canada, Maj Gen JR Herron. This was presented to 2 (CITY OF DUNDEE) SIGNAL SQUADRON Sgt Chester by Col Makulowich. Sgt Chester returned the compliment by producing a copy of the factual events and OC Maj I Crockett North Irish Horse history and presented them to Col SSM WO2 (SSM) Honeyman Makulowich, who stated that he was delighted to receive the North Irish Horse history and would pass them onto the Over the last few months the Squadron has been getting to Canadian Military Archive Division and museum in Canada. know and work alongside our new colleagues in 32 Signal Regiment after a successful transition earlier this year. The 70th Anniversary for the breaching of the “Hitler Line” in th Italy in May was held on Sunday 25 at Caw Camp in The first Regimental Training Weekend saw members of the Londonderry. The Church service was conducted by Canon Squadron deploying to Thiepval Barracks Lisburn, which for Sam McVeigh MBE TD DL. In attendance was the inspecting some was their first trip across the water and for others was officer Dr Angela Garvey, Lord Lieutenant of the City of nice to go and have a look at an old stomping ground. Londonderry. Col Denis Desmond CBE, Lord Lieutenant County Londonderry. We were also delighted to have the The weekend was an inter Squadron sports weekend Sqn’s Hon Col, Lord Denis Rogan of Lower Iveagh and Lord involving swimming, basketball, football and tug of war as the Alan Lapsley QVRM TD DL Hon Col 32 Sig Regt as guests at competing sports. We faired with varying degrees of

40 Sqn and guests at Hitler Line Parade

68 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 The afternoon saw the return to the accommodation where the climbing wall had been erected, allowing for some practice and climbing skills to be homed. This was short lived as the rain stopped play to some disappointment, although LCpl Jason Clarke was glad to get his tight harness off as he was the subject of fits of laughter from the females. The rain had pushed our planned BBQ indoors, however LCpl Flo Conlane our Sqn chef along with the help of Sgt Wendy Cush did wonders in the kitchen by putting on a sizeable spread and creating a feast to be proud of. The BBQ was short lived as Sgt Kris Wilson had planned a few bar games. LCpl Matt Holmes and Sig Emily Thompson competing in the maggot race in sleeping bags making their way over constructed obstacles was a sorry sight. However LCpl Holmes was not good enough for a very competitive Sig Thompson, whom went on to win several other games. Sunday took everyone to the local AT activity centre on the Capt Irvine and Sgt Chester Lough shore. Here expert AT instructors put the Sqn through arduous rock climbing, using the onsite facilities. This time it was time for Cpl Artie Holland to shine and proved to be the successes but note to self, make sure we bring boots for the old TV show ‘Gladiator’ as other Sqn members could not catch ToW next time! him to pull him off the walls. Next was a spot of archery where the Sqn split into two teams. Cpl Jackie McKeown Exercise HIGHLAND CHALLENGE – Regimental Lanyard secured the highest single points taking her to win the 1st Training round. However WO2 (SSM) Glenn Campbell made sure her fame was short lived as he scored the highest score leading Utilising the Invercauld Estate, which is set in excellent his team to win the overall competition. The last endeavour, scenery on the River Dee opposite Balmoral Castle, the orienteering saw three teams run the shore line of the Lough Regimental Lanyard Trophy team was tested on its physical Marina looking for specific marker tallies while trying to read endurance and micro navigation skills. The troops took it in the features without maps. LCpl Robert Browne’s team made turn to navigate legs along the route under the watchful eyes this more difficult by hiding the markers in hedges, which led of the unit MLTs SSgt George Cowan and Sgt Lesley Bayne. to them winning the event. One thing we forgot to put on the kit list was sun cream, which is a rare requirement when walking in the Cairngorms. The weekend proved to be a great success maintaining The weather was spot on and we all managed to top up our morale and enthusiasm into a new training year. Well done to “Squaddie Tans” and after a good 12 mile walk, a well Sgt Kris Wilson for organising the event and he would like to deserved beer in Ballater. thank all those who helped make the weekend possible and a weekend to be remember. One of the challenges for the Army Reserve to compete at the Lanyard Trophy is the limited time available to get the 50 SIGNAL SQUADRON team together. This was an excellent chance for a bit of team bonding and to find out who the most competent is with a OC Maj Brad Hogg map and compass…. The jury is still out on that one! SSM WO2 (SSM) David Ross 40 (NORTH IRISH HORSE) SIGNAL SQUADRON 50 Signal Squadron Freedom Parade

OC Maj Gordon Stevenson 50 Signal Squadron exercised its right to the Freedom of the SSM WO2 (SSM) Glenn Campbell Borough of Darlington on the afternoon of Saturday 26 April, marching through the town to the Market Square with Exercise LAKESIDE FINN 3 “drums beating, bayonets fixed and swords drawn” for the first time since June 1977. The low lands of County Fermanagh situated beside Lough Erne, the old garrison town of Enniskillen played host to the Planning for the event had started in the cold dark winter Squadron's end of year AT weekend. months, but for the final couple of weeks in April leading up to the event it seemed to take over the lives of all personnel After a busy and successful training year, Saturday saw an involved! The last week saw a major effort with drill, the ARC early start with a quick 15 minute drive to a local outdoor Go being opened up every night for two hour sessions on the Karting complex. No team work here, it was everyone out for square, so much so that the SSM started to worry about themselves with a competitive grand prix race. Starting off losing his voice for the big day itself. By the Friday night all with morning dew still on the grass and the wide track still had started to come together, the troops were marching in damp from the evening before, it was a quick learning time with the band and the officers finally knew where to be experience by all as the carts and their slick tyres did not in relation to the squad! respond well to the excessive power and tight corners during the warm up laps. The heats allowed everyone to race Saturday dawned and after some last minute rehearsals all against each other at some stage towards the final. This got into their best “bib and tucker” and boarded the brought out the competitiveness more so in some, especially transport to the start point. The march through the town with the REME lads, Sgt Roy Johnston refusing to let his went flawlessly and the parade arrived on the Market Square JNCOs get the better of him resulting in him being shown the to receive the Freedom of the Borough of Darlington from His black and white flag. Worship the Mayor, even the much predicted rain held off and after an inspection that seemed to last for ever to those As the heats progressed, the circuit track and tyres became carrying rifles we were given permission to march off, to hot, which enabled for much faster lap times. LCpl Kyle Carse much applause from the gathered crowd. had a habit of jumping the starting flag which saw him in the top six, but he was soon at the peril of five team mates who After the event most, apart from a few who had to give TV had just learned of his antics from the remainder of the and radio interviews, went back to the Mayor's Parlour for cheering Squadron bystanders. Taking Pole position was LCpl official signings and then off to the ARC for a families day and Matt Holmes, his light frame and fearless attitude saw him social, with members of the RSA and RBL plus invited maintain the lead throughout, achieving the fastest lap and dignitaries all joining approx 200 guests for drinks and an winning the final. excellent buffet provided by the Master Chef.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 69 All in all a grand day out, thanks to all Squadron members, both marching and enabling, for giving so much time to making the day the success it was and special thanks must go to our paired unit 2SR for providing us some extra marching Troops. Some brave souls were still out celebrating until the wee small hours, but the least said about that, or the SSMs “braces induced injuries” the better!

CBRN training

Another sunny morning parade on Sunday, before returning to Darlington. Following kit turnaround Sgt Riches delivered an interesting CIED package, with Capt Barry Hunter and Capt The Mayor of Darlington inspects the Freedom Parade Dave Carr delivering MATT 6 and 7 concluding the weekend’s activities.

Exercise TEES TEST Overall a successful weekend with positive feedback, undoubtedly aided by the weather. Soldiers from 50 Signal Squadron conducted the first planned MATTs weekend of the Training Year overseen by SPSI SSgt 51 (SCOTTISH) SIGNAL SQUADRON Mark Reay. IC for the weekend, Sgt Rob Allinson, started the weekend with a bang by having Cpl Andy Barrett lead the 8 OC Maj Penny Mell mile AFT around Darlington. On completion of the AFT there SSM WO2 (SSM) David Mackenzie was no time to compare blisters before boarding the transport (albeit with one or two sore feet) for sunny Warcop. Exercise NORTHERN LEADER Although rain was forecast for the weekend, following Ex NORTHERN LEADER was a fantastic weekend with great breakfast, the Saturday morning parade was bathed in weather and scenery thrown in to boot. It was hard work but sunshine, which boded well for the days activities of Live Fire thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding. We started off on Friday 3, Battlefield Casualty Drills and Chemical Biological evening with weapon issue, then we packed our kit into our Radiological Nuclear training. Sgt Andy Mason cleared Wolf 4x4 vehicles. We finished Friday by receiving our formal everyone onto the range, and then the four groups exercise orders. commenced a round robin of activities with the resounding background thump of 50 calibre from the Light Dragoon Saturday started early with a 0500 reveille to begin our Guards on various ranges across the Training Area. journey north to Stirling. On arrival at the form up point (FUP) we were guided to our individual detachment areas SSgt Dave Riches tested the groups on their navigation skills which involved a rather tricky and exciting cross country in the Cumbrian fresh air, whilst Cpl Liddle tested the groups journey. After setting up the detachment and establishing on CBRN, which included the CS filled, not so fresh, air in the communications it was down to business. The scenario gave testing facility. SSgt Fletch Fletcher and LCpl Tom Poole split us an opportunity to practice and perfect not just our the training of BCD and BLS, whilst Sgt Andy Mason (RCO), communication skills, but a whole range of soldiering skills, Sgt Keith Elsdon and Sgt Neil Malloy (with the added including dealing with and working through a chemical attack assistance of WO1 (SVWO) Paul Standing, provided invaluable not to mention dealing with some lunatic and his accomplice coaching on the range where required. trying to disrupt the scenario. At midnight radio listening watch was mounted and the rest of us went off to bed. On Sunday we were up at 0700, breakfast was made and we packed up for a controlled move back to our respective Army Reserve Centres (ARCs).

The 25 meter range

After a successful day on the range Sqn members assembled for a briefing by the OC, Maj Brad Hogg, before heading off for refreshments to watch the Froch v Groves boxing bout. LCpl Bird and Sig Dodds

70 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 You can’t beat it, life in the Army Reserve as part of the best Once the rest of the packet finally arrived we received a Squadron in the Regiment. Fun, excitement, superb food lesson on how to prep your vehicle for off road use then stuck (Compo), cross country driving, great weather, amazing into offroading straight away with students and instructors in friends and that’s only in one weekend, all free and you get Land Rovers and 6 tonne Man SV’s. After a few laps of the paid to do it course it was time for lunch provided by the 52 Sp Sqn Chefs. Cpl McCormack arrived with some tasty pasta and meatballs 52 SUPPORT SQUADRON along with new Army issue bowls, also known as paper cups. OC Maj Jim McNaught In the afternoon everyone received a lesson by Cpl ‘Stevie SSM WO2 (SSM) Sam Parke Jnr’ Williams and LCpl McLennan on the Turfer winch before moving onto the scenario of recovering a bogged in Exercise NORTHERN DRIVER Landrover. Sig Sennet was tasked as the section commander whilst everyone else was not allowed to speak, creating an The aim of the weekend was to conduct on/off road refresher extra challenge to the recovery process. A good effort was training on all green fleet held within the Sqn. The four main put in by all but in the end the scenario turned into a proper points covered were driver induction course, MT safety, recovery by the LAD after our very own MTWO WO2 ‘Jock’ vehicle maintenance and documentation and road safety Heaney, managed to bog the vehicle in a little too well. training. This began on Friday evening which covered an initial brief, a lesson on the completion of FMT 109 and several Another road drive saw us head back to the ARC for some DVDs including “Nasty Business,” “A risk too far,” Vehicle dinner then onto a convoy night drive were all vehicles were Loading & Restraint” and “Cross Country Driving Training.” broken down into three packets. At the end of the night drive we were treated to a tasty egg banjo, perhaps to make up for Saturday morning kicked-off with breakfast at 0630hrs then the forgotten bowls at lunchtime earlier. onto the first lesson, completing an FMT1000, followed by a lesson on completing driver’s hours. Before the vehicles Sunday morning we were back in early for breakfast then could move onto the road a refresher on how to carry out onto two lessons covering wheel changing and load restraints first works, last works and halt parades was covered. The which covered most of the day. Before the training weekend road drive saw us head for Cambusbarren training area. The could be wrapped up all vehicles had to be POL’d and washed packet arrived a little later than planned after the lead driver down. Last thing on the agenda was a debrief and an update (who seemed to be the only person who knew where the on driver training records. A good weekend enjoyed by all training area was) shot off from the vehicle behind him. Nice students and a great effort put in by the instructors resulted one Sgt Alfie Adens. in great refresher training being achieved.

37th SIGNAL REGIMENT REDDITCH

CO Lt Col Cairns TD going into the hall of the mountain king and well worth RSM WO1 (RSM) Moore seeing. The camp site was probably the best campsite I have ever been in (and I’ve been to quite a few), the toilets, The Regiment has had another busy period with ongoing showers are in individual rooms and there is a lounge, kitchen support to UK Ops in particular and mobilisation of personnel and washing room, all are clean and modern. on Herrick 20 in support of 1 ADSR. A number of unit Exercises have taken place, focusing on Comms training in the From the camp site, we went on various day trips paddling build up to ADE in France later this year. The Regt welcomes round the Isle of Shapinsay and along the north and west Capt Ash Ingham as QM at RHQ & Sp Sqn in Redditch. On the coasts of Orkney. Then a trip to Scapa Bay to visit the sporting front, personnel have been involved in a host of memorial of HMS Royal Oak, which was made even more activities ranging from chess to sea kayaking and a variety of memorable because of the force 4-5 winds and the fight other sporting activities in between. Well done to all those across the bay, battling the wind and current along the south who took part in the “Race the Sun” event and coast. Each day we were impressed by the huge cliffs dotted congratulations to the Rugby 7s players for their showing at the Corps 7s competition.

Sea Kayak Concentration Scotland 4-16 May 2014 - by SSgt Tim Abbot (RHQ)

Although an ageing kayak instructor now, I was fortunate to be loaded onto the sea kayak concentration which was held at Ballachulish, which is on the west coast of Scotland near Fort William. The group was made up of Navy/Army/Airforce paddlers and we were split into groups according to the level of our kayaking skills. The instructors were brilliant and we all looked forward to getting some decent paddling in the days ahead. We spent two days in the Ballachulish area learning about tides and navigation, but each day we were also on the water and paddled round Shona Island (where the castle that Monty Python and the Search of the Holy Grail was filmed “Go away you stupid English fetches la vache”). Then it was off to the Orkney Islands where we set up camp at Kirkwall, the capital city, only 500m away from Tesco and the pubs and restaurants. The Orkney Islands have amazing historic sites to The Orkney coastline visit and if you are ever there, go to the cathedral, it’s like

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 71 with lines of Puffin and Kittywakes, who would straf over 33 (NORTH WEST) SIGNAL SQUADRON your kayak; seals were as common as cats in a town. On one of the days we entered a sea cave about 200m long, where OC Maj R Paterson the swell of the Atlantic meant you had to go in backwards; as SSM WO2 (SSM) Jolliffe the swell rose you paddled up the slope the relaxed as the walls of the cave shot past you, then, another swell would Race The Sun - by SSgt K Roberts (SPSI 33 Sig Sqn) come along so you paddled again. On one cave, a seal was between us and the back of the cave, its strange when you The whole team, or what we thought was the whole team, have your head torch on and see a pair of eyes looking at you arrived at York the evening prior to the race and got ready to from the depth of the cave! go. In fitting of the race numbers, it became apparent that we were missing an individual to do the 900m lake swim. Lucky for us Sgt Rob Smith, who was competing in the Moor Run, was identified as a secret “fish” and with a little push, he stepped up to the mark.

0500hrs and the race began with SSgt Abbot running down to the lakeside in his not so comfy shoes; after taking his time getting his skirt on, he was one of the last to enter the water, but 6km of paddling later and with “guns” the size of a house, he exited in 8th place and handed over to Sig Bartlett who started out on the 12km river run.

Expecting to find himself completing 12km on a path that ran along side the river, he was more than shocked to find that he was running through grass up to his waist and spent more time in mud on his backside than he did on his feet. After a fantastic run though, he handed over to SSgt Coley to complete the run/bike leg.

The view from the sea cave

We then went on an overnight exped down the west coast and across to the Isle of Hoy where we camped close to a café that sold beer! We visited the Museum at Lyness, which covers the history of Scapa Bay in WW1 and WW2. There’s too much to tell you about how brilliant this Sea Kayak Concentration was; it was probably one of the best times in my life and most memorable in my lengthy career to date!

If this has sparked your interest, put down your Xbox and look at the Adv Trg site at [email protected] or on the Army net click on Adv Trg. Concentrations for Kayaking, Sig Bartlett on Leg 2 – the 12km river run Skiing, Climbing etc etc are all available for anyone who has completed a foundation course in the respective sport. It may be known to many that SSgt Coley is not what you Combined Services Chess Championships would call the running type, but he did extremely well on the – by SSgt Chwieseni (53 Sig Sqn) run before setting off on his bike. Completing his leg in great time he handed over to Cpl McGarry who was to complete This year’s Combined Services Chess Championships was held the hill run for the 4th year running. He swears that this year at the Defence Academy in Shrivenham. It was organised by the organisers had extended the hill and in true Cpl McGarry Maj Francis Pearce, who also played in the tournament. Open style, we did not hear the end of it for the rest of the day. to all serving and retired members of the armed forces and MoD civil servants, it incorporates the single service Leg 5 was the 8km bergan tab, this really should be renamed championships for Army, Navy, RAF and MOD. All the bergan sprint. Sgt Gilbert completed it in a great time competitors play seven games over five days with each game and managed to pick up an almighty blister, which is not what taking up to four hours to complete. you need when you have the stretcher race to complete later!

SSgt (FofS) Dave ‘for one Knight’ Onley from 16 Sig Regt Sgt R Smith completed leg 6 (Moor Run) who said the retained his Combined Services and Army trophies from last following “Everyone was huddled in a 9x9 tent, and as the leg year, once again pushing SSgt Ed Chwieseni into the runner marshals shouted that someone was coming in, everyone in the up slot of both those titles and completing a Royal Signals tent poked their heads out like Meer kats. I was discussing with one, two. SSgt Onley was unable to fare so well in the Blitz another competitor how it would be great if our leg would be (chess in 5 minutes!) where he was eliminated in the group last to come in, so we would not have time to get to the swim stage. SSgt Chwieseni was pushed out in the first semi final start, ‘22’ was called and off I ran into what can only be by the eventual winner, retired veteran Kevin Thurlow. described as a jungle. 10km later I was finished and there waiting was the car to speed me back to camp in time for my All three Royal Signals players qualified for the Combined next leg, no rest for the wicked” Services Team who will play in the NATO Chess Championships in Quebec, Canada in September. For more info about chess Leg 7 (half marathon) was completed by WO2 Brooks in a in the forces, go to serviceschess.co.uk or natochess.com time of 1hr 39mins. Recalling the event he said ”The first km

72 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 of the leg was down hill which allowed the race to stretch out it” As the only person to have a smile on his face at the end rapidly. The next 8 miles saw the runners go alongside the A170, of their leg, I think next year he should enter at least 2 legs. which is very undulating. This allowed me to pick off some of the runners as they began to tire”. With a 1.5 mile climb and a The last event of the day was the gruelling stretcher race. teaser of a little down hill stretch, followed by a further and This was a 2 mile loop of the camp carrying a stretcher loaded now much steeper climb to the village, WO2 Brooks’ legs with 40kg. One person had to complete a lap of the field could only be described as on fire and they were very much prior to the team setting off. Sig Dicker completed this lap trashed at the 12 mile point when he saw the final hill. The and to his credit put the team in a good position. After a very last mile felt like 5 for him, but this did not stop him from painful 2 miles the team crossed the finish line stopping the having a sprint finish with a fellow competitor. clock for the team.

Leg 8 saw SSgt James complete the mountain bike event; A great all-round effort and well done to those who took part covered in mud and with sore quads, he said at the end of the this year. We look forward to competing again next year with leg “NEVER AGAIN” although after he recovered he couldn’t some fresh blood from the Regt – bring it on! wait to find out the dates for next year. 48 (CITY OF BIRMINGHAM) SIGNAL SQUADRON Leg 9 (10Km Fell run) was completed by SSgt (FofS) Johnston he said “Poised and anxious to run, I awaited SSgt James to OC Maj S Cherry complete the mountain bike leg. As he arrived I went off like a SSM WO2 (SSM) Potts freight train down the hill to start the 10km, only to encounter a large stubborn cow (could be a ram) with horns blocking the The first period of training for 14/15 is already behind us and path. With the decisions of crossing him via his horns or going we have some notable gains for the Squadron. Ex GLOBAL past his hoofs I decided on the British approach and stopped MATTS was well attended by those keen to MATTs qualify and waited for him to cross, which gave me chance to get my early and GLOBAL TROT saw the Sqn deploy to Nescliffe for breath back after starting fast with the crowds watching”! some much needed EC training; with a programme expertly put together and executed by Capt Sandy Hennis and the Sqn Leg 10 (orienteering) was completed by SSgt Abbott, Ops Team (full brownie points due for engineering the OC’s followed by leg 11, the 10km forest run. Lucky for Sig Dicker team winning the quiz night!). this leg was cancelled as the first few runners ended up running round the forest in circles for a minimum of 20km, The previous period has seen the arrival of SSgt Jack thanks to someone changing the position of the Tac signs! Backhouse from 36 Sig Sqn, making a smooth transition from TOWIE to Benefit Street whilst we lose SSgt ‘Coops’ Cooper, Leg 12(cycle orienteering) was completed by SSgt Greaves. moving in the opposite direction; only time will tell who will He said the event was “Due to the 2 min interval start the emerge the winner in this transaction! SSgt Phil Shawcross event turned into what can only be described as a time trial. I leaves us soon for Civvy Street; 48 Sig Sqn wish him good luck found the event stimulating and fully appreciated the numerous and best wishes for his future. LCpls Bailey and Marston- false summits on the last mountain I had to climb”. Rydings have now mobilised for deployment with 1(UK) ADSR Next was Leg 13 the 900m lake swim and as mentioned on Op HERRICK 20; good luck to both and we look forward to previously, Sgt R Smith had stepped in to save the day by your safe return in the New Year! April saw a new influx of completing this leg as well as Leg 6. After listening to his trained soldiers into the Sqn with 5 passing their TSC (B) encounter of the event I can see why no one was jumping at course. These were Sigs Blake, Dicker, Hall and Lynch. the chance to complete this leg. Sgt Smith said “I entered the Congratulations go out to them and also OCdt Wilson, who water amidst the screams from other participants that were also passed her TSC (B) followed by her AOSB not long after. already in and spent 10 mins trying to warm up in freezing cold water. I could not believe that some competitors were just in On the sporting front, LCpls Riley, Willets and OCdt Wilson swimming costumes, but fair play to them. The Horn sounded formed part of the 2nd placed Regt rounders team at the R and we were off; as people were zig zagging across the lake, it SIGNALS inter unit competition. Capt Hennis won her was difficult trying to adjust course without crashing into category at the Army Novice Championships somebody else. What a relief it was to climb out of the water and Sig Dicker stepped in late as a replacement for the Regt and run across the road to the finish line. Those without swim/ “Race the Sun” team. Last but not least, Sig Sanderson has wetsuits collapsed with near hyperthermia and had to be seen been in action for the Corps Hockey team and has been quickly by the medics” selected for the Army U25 team, well done!

Leg 14 (20km cycle/10km run) was completed by WO2 Exercise GLOBAL MATTS 1 - by Sig Dcaccia (48 Sig Sqn) Reynolds. He crossed the finish line with a huge smile on his face and when asked how he found it he said ”I really enjoyed 25-27 April saw the Regt come together for the first chance to achieve their MATTs and also to meet “the Scousers” aka 33 Sig Sqn; the new addition to the Regt, based in Liverpool with a Tp in Manchester. Football based jokes met with a mixed reception dependent on the recipients' loyalties!

Gamecock Barracks, home of 30 Sig Regt proved a perfect compact base for our requirements and provided unusually luxurious accommodation, as well as a tasty out-of-hours pizza service! MATT 1 was conducted in the DCCT under WO2 (SSM) Evans and this setting allowed for instant feedback and coaching, along with the chance to conduct a fire team “scenario shoot” afterwards. It was noted that LCpl Wong was a little trigger happy on this phase! Sgt Phillips conducted MATT 5, navigation, and we all appreciated the chance to get out of the classroom and relate our maps to the features that were visible out on the ground. The 37 Sig Regt Race the Sun Team

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 73 trailer training and familiarisation, further advancing the capability of the Squadron. An excellent back-to-basics Comms Ex, with all involved taking the most out of the training available.

Exercise GLOBAL CANTER 1 – by LCpl Abrahams 53 Sig Sqn

During GLOBAL CANTER all the Squadrons of 37 Sig Regt deployed to meet our new addition to the Regiment, 33 Sig Sqn in Liverpool. The weekend saw us deploying our Bowman vehicles and WO2 (YofS) Wilson showed us how to initialise and run up our UDTs and UCDs, in preparation for ADE14 which is to France in September. Apart from the weather being absolutely beautiful, everyone got stuck in to the task and we were able to get hands on experience with the equipment, setting up as well as integrating with our new Squadron. We had an incident where LCpl Jason Gardener injured himself within an hour of using the Bowman and had Exercise Global MATTs AFT quite a nasty slice in his leg, sure to say he should be awarded the wooden spoon!! On Sunday we covered CIED and tackled the 6 mile AFT; for the latter, we completed 2 laps of the “Windbreaks” which was quite demanding due to the uneven ground, followed by a lap of camp. LCpl Johnson was notable in his extreme determination to stay the course. In fact the only glitch in what was an extremely well planned and executed Ex from SSgt Kent and his Sp Sqn team, was the lack of coffee in the cookhouse on Saturday morning (33 Sqn denied all responsibility). Luckily the ever resourceful Sp Sqn supplied a Burco boiler and brew stand in the Training Wing, and was on hand to provide the Regt with a caffeine fix so that training could commence! All the Sqns returned safely to their respective locations and bucking stereotypes, 48 Sqn were the only ones to return with more than they set out with, in the form of a bicycle that Sig Mweta had acquired after spotting an advert in the camp shop! Bowman Training at 33 Sig Sqn 53 (WALES & WESTERN) SIGNAL SQUADRON The night time social proved to be an enjoyable evening with OC Maj G Smith different games set up for teams of 6 from each unit; the SSM WO2 (SSM) Knock games ranged from dance offs on the Xbox, to car races, a slight electric shock as well as ending the night with a few Exercise SQUADRON TROT 3 - by LCpl Glover (53 Sig Sqn) sociable drinks and networking. Someone had the bright idea of PT at 0630hrs on a Sunday morning which caused a few 53 Sig Sqn arrived at Nescliffe Training Camp for a Regimental moans, however, once it started it turned out to be an comms PACEX. They were ready to get back to what they do enjoyable hard working session which everyone enjoyed best after a training year focussed primarily on mil skills. The including all the officers who took part in it. This weekend main effort for the Ex was the validation of the Sqn and the enabled us to be prepared for the next training session in Regt’s ability to deploy and maintain Bowman and ICS July, as we build up to Regt deployment to France. capability in a UK Ops scenario. The validation was being carried out by 2 Sig Gp. Corps 7s Rugby Tournament – by Sig Sims (53 Sig Sqn)

Day 1 started out well - 53 Sqn deployed the CST detachment The day started off pretty bad, with rain coming down heavily to a building of opportunity and quickly established restricted before the games had started. While all the other teams were and secure Voice as well as DII services via the BGAN satellite. waking up, 37 Sig Regt got out onto the cold wet pitches and The validation team visited and quizzed the CST Det got ourselves warmed up and ready to play; with Sig Rogers commander LCpl Iles and her crew on the training objectives. teaching us some basic tactics and setting everyone’s The visit went well – everything was going to plan and then positions. The first match was against 18 (UKSF) Sig Regt A the wind and rain arrived… Not even the valiant efforts of Sig team, which could have been better; we were younger, more Simms, climbing up onto the building’s roof in an attempt to awake and had all the enthusiasm, but just could not fight maintain the BGAN in the face of the storm, succeeded in them off, ending with not a single try on the board. After restoring data capability. However, the PACEX and validation picking ourselves up and with help from SSgt James and his objectives had nevertheless being successfully achieved. freshly cut oranges, we got back onto the pitch for our second game against 21 Sig Regt which again ended in a loss Day 2 saw the deployment of the Bowman assets in much for 37, but once again we just could not get a try in. We came more favourable weather conditions. HF and VHF comms very close, just not close enough, but for a team that only were established, giving the Class 3 operators a chance to started playing rugby together that day it wasn’t a bad at all. dust off their voice procedure whilst the Det commanders took the opportunity to review the state of the Dets; carrying The last match would decide which trophy we would be out IMI checks and recording faults. fighting for and it was against 30 Sig Regt, which is where we finally got it together and really played some good rugby. We The journey back to Cardiff Army Reserve Centre allowed the even got a try past them to make it our first try of the opportunity for LCpl MacDonald to carry out some Penman tournament, but not our last thank goodness.

74 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Throughout the tournament we put up a good fight and finally we got to prove what the only reserve Regiment there could do, when we were put against 18 (UKSF) Sig Regt B team for the shield final and from the word go you could see that 37 weren’t going home empty handed. Putting try after try down, pulling off all the tactics we practiced that morning and with the crowds cheering for us right to the end, we came away with a win and some silverware to take back. A good showing from us and well done to all who took part.

Members of 37 Signal Regiment after the Corps Triathlon Competition – Sgt Morgan and SSgt Kent (pictured front) with medals

on Ex GRIFFIN SPANNER and did very well to come third in the Reserve Competition in the Turner Shield.

Cpl (now Sgt) Russ Taylor has had a good time of it recently. In addition to his richly deserved promotion, he was awarded top student and top field student on his SCLM. Along with 37 Sig Regt Rugby 7’s Shield Winners LCpl Andy Hemming he has now mobilised on H20 as part of 1 ADSR – we wish you both an enjoyable, rewarding and safe tour. Capt Paul Blythe returned from another 6 month tour in 54 (WORCESTERSHIRE) SUPPORT SQUADRON Cyprus and immediately took on an FTRS role as RAO with 159 Supply Regiment. OC Maj C Quincey SSM WO2 (SSM) M Evans RHQ and Sp Sqn co-ordinated the Bde BSS Part 2 Weekend under the watchful eye of Sgt Gilbert. The training took place Another very busy period for Support Sqn, with seemingly over the period 25 – 27 Apr 14 at RHQ 37 Sig Regt, Redditch. continuous events and activities available, providing everyone In total, 12 students attended (2 from 54 Sp Sqn, 7 from 48 Sig an opportunity to participate in something of interest to Sqn, 3 from 33 Sig Sqn). WO2 YofS Wilson, Sgt Hadley and them. A significant number of the Sqn attended the first LCpl Hathaway were the course instructors. Subjects covered MATT weekend of the Training Year organised by SSgt Jase included: Military Abbreviations, Orders Extraction, Civil Kent in Bramcote, courtesy of support from 30 Sig Regt. SSgt Emergency Comms, C2 Applications and Voice Procedures Kent also led a team of 10 triathletes in the annual Royal Signals Sprint Triathlon. Sgt Morgan Gilbert came first in the At the time of writing LCpl Ralph Curtiss is part of a team novice category and SSgt Kent came third; well done to them providing REME support to the British Army Training Unit on and everyone else who participated. Sig Adam Lock took part Ex AFRICA STORM – more details to follow in the next edition. in the Army Indoor Climbing championship and gained some Congratulations to Sig (now LCpl) Wayne Harris on his well valuable experience that he will hopefully build on in the deserved promotion; let’s hope the celebrations have now months and years ahead. The LAD put in a solid performance run their course and you can start to enjoy your new rank!

39th (SKINNERS) SIGNAL REGIMENT BRISTOL

56 SIGNAL SQUADRON - EASTBOURNE bodes well for their future careers. In the past year, some 25% of the Squadron have been promoted – this is a testament to OC Maj S L Trevelion their commitment and enthusiasm as Reservists. They have refused to allow their energies to be dampened and have 56 Signal Squadron Farewell been determined to soldier on regardless. It gave me great pleasure to promote SSgt Jo Reader on her last night in In July 2013, 56 Signal Squadron received the order that we uniform. I am sad that she has chosen to hang up her boots, are to be disbanded and replaced in the Eastbourne Army but very pleased that she was able to do so as a SSgt! Reserve Centre by a Platoon from 3 PWRR. Work to ensure a swift handover of the site and transfer of all personnel to The past year seems to have flown by, beginning with the their new Units has been ongoing ever since and the 2 July Squadron Freedom Parade back in January 2014. Our focus Flag Day is fast approaching. The Command Team’s main since the Freedom Parade has been on ensuring that the effort over the last year has been to ensure that as many Squadron property is returned to its rightful owners and I soldiers as possible continue to serve in the Army Reserve and must thank the PSAO, Capt Gary Jennion, for his hard work I am delighted that so many have indeed chosen to do so, and diligence in ensuring that this process has run so albeit in other Corps. Whilst the majority of the junior soldiers smoothly. One of our last duties as a Squadron was the are transferring to 3 PWRR, we have also transferred a good auction to dispose of the final items of Squadron memorabilia. deal of the Squadron to 71 Signal Regiment, 101 Engineer The auction was expertly managed by the Squadron 2IC, Capt Regiment (EOD), 6 AAC, RWxY, 151 Regiment RLC and 103 Steph Barron, and YofS, WO2 Tim Still (both now off to join Battalion REME. This is clearly an indication of how strongly the RE!) and an amusing day was had by all, raising some our soldiers desire to serve in the Army Reserve and I hope it £2,500. It was definitely a morale boost for all to see a

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 75 potentially sad occasion turn into a fun event. I was pleased our training, particularly as we were operating without the to have 3 former OCs in attendance on the day, Col Ray benefit of artificial lighting. The highlights of the weekend Wilkinson, Maj Dutch Holland and Maj Keiron Francis; our were, in no particular order, the amazing ability of the chefs thanks go out to each of you for all your support while the to produce highly presentable, tasty meals from 10 man ration Squadron has gone through its recent transformation. Most packs; the periodic appearance of the sun and last but by no of the soldiers managed to walk away with a piece of means least, the securing of regular and reliable Comms. Squadron history, though I have no idea where Sig Ben Carson is going to put his fruit machine or what Sig Harry All in all, a good weekend with a fair amount of knowledge Holding is going to do with a lecturn!! and confidence gained all round. We look forward to the next Ex where we will deploy in more of a UK Ops style role, Our last remaining function as a Squadron will be our final utilising the other CIS used within the Regiment such as BBQ and party on Sat 14 Jun, complete with bouncy castle, Command Support Terminals (CST) and REEBOK. although I am not sure whether this will be for the benefit of the families or for the 2IC! We are looking forward to hosting Royal Windsor Horse Show - by Cpl Turner both the CO, Lt Col Marcus Cosgrove and the Squadron Honorary Colonel, Maj Gen (Retd) John Moore-Bick and I was very excited to be asked to represent the RLC in hoping to see as many of the wider Squadron family as competition at the Royal Windsor Horse Show. My Regiment possible on the day. was also very proud of my achievement, and supportive of this opportunity to compete at such a high level. As an Army Whilst our days as a Squadron are now running short, I know Reservist this was a new and exciting opportunity for me, for that the spirit of 56 will live on in all our soldiers, wherever which I was honoured and truly grateful. they continue to serve. From a personal perspective, I would like to thank all the people who have supported us over the I arrived the day before the start of the show as we had an past year; we have very much appreciated your guidance and early start the following morning. I thought I was prepared assistance. It is good to know that the Squadron has so many for the scale of the show but once I arrived it was clear that it friends across the Corps. A big thank you should also go to was going to be an experience of a lifetime. I would be my Command Team, who have performed so well under such competing in the same ring as some of the best known riders testing circumstances. As the Jimmy is lowered in Eastbourne in Britain; in a stadium that I have only ever dreamt of for the last time on 2 July, I know that we will all feel very sad, performing in. but also a great deal of pride at having served in such a fine Squadron. CERTO CITO. The evening before the show the team met up, and we all went to watch the Grand Prix Freestyle to music, the highlight 93 (NORTH SOMERSET YEOMANRY) SUPPORT SQN (LOG SP being the display from the Kings Troop, Royal Horse Artillery. TROOP) I still couldn’t imagine myself competing in this ring the next day, as I found it all very overwhelming, but the support from When the Troop Commander issues sun cream prior to an the rest of the team was amazing and kept me grounded. Exercise in which it barely stops raining, some may take that as an omen that things may not entirely go to plan…And so On competition day we all got up and had breakfast and went the scene was set! Exercise LYNX CANTER (6 – 8 June 2014) to prepare our horses to compete. Again this was new to me was the second of a series of Sqn level exercises in which the as the club had organised a groom for me to prepare my main focus of activity was to test the Bowman TACCIS of the horse, which left me time to concentrate on walking the Regiment in a fully ‘green’ and tactical scenario on Salisbury course and dealing with my nerves! Plain. The experience built-up during our earlier exercises proved good preparation, but we still found the process of getting communications in from the Dets to the Regimental Command Post (RCP) a challenging business at times. The undulating nature of the terrain around the Ex location ensured that we had to use a number of different Comms configurations in order to achieve the aims of the Exercise. Additional challenges were provided by the differently configured Bowman platforms brought into play by our newly acquired colleagues from 43 (City of Bristol) Signal Squadron.

The night moves out onto the Training Area brought home a real sense of isolation, and necessitated us drawing heavily on

Lt Lambert was first in the ring and started the team off beautifully with only one pole down. Next in the ring was Capt Edwards who rode an excellent round but unfortunately her horse didn’t pick his toes up on the day which lead to having a few poles down. Last in the ring was myself; I don’t remember much of my round, only the first and last jump. I do remember half way round telling myself to calm down and take a breath, and this had the desired effect. After this, it was obvious that the team as a whole had collectively composed, as we all rode well in the second half of the competition. Overall this was an amazing event, with all three team members making it round with no stops and we ended up finishing in 19th position. I am now looking forward to consolidating my own experience, and with further practice Briefing in Woodland setting our ambition as a team is to be in the top ten nationwide.

76 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 94 SIGNAL SQUADRION well as being the initial point of contact for G6 within the Brigade. She spent a busy first 24 hours at 39 Signal It has been a busy few months for the Berkshire Yeomanry, Regiment, being briefed on current operations, tasks and with the usual mix of communications exercises, Recruiting familiarization of the MOSS site; reports, returns and battle and Military training. We have said goodbye to the SSM, rhythm. She then deployed to Aldershot for two weeks in Jimmy Hearn, after more than 20 years with the Squadron support of the Commander. Capt Saunders commented: and we welcome WO2 Colin Anderson as his replacement. “This gave me an invaluable insight into the importance of our We are also very pleased to see the safe return of LCpls role and the ability to provide rapid, reliable and secure Tackley and Mays from their deployment on Op HERRICK with communications across the Brigade enabling the recovery 21 Signal Regt. We have also welcomed back Capt Ruth Allen effort. It also gave me experience working side by side with (nee Woodwood) from her deployment at RHQ. Regular, Reserve and Civilian staff from all services, emphasizing the importance of alignment across the Brigade of current and Op Pitchpole future tasks, including planning and recovery.”

The Squadron played a key role in providing Staff and CSS Nine of the Squadron were deployed locally as support to Op PITCHPOLE, the Operation to provide relief to Communication Support Teams providing reliable communities affected by the recent severe flooding. Maj telecommunications to the key sites involved in coordinating Justin Harris deployed to 43 Bde and Capt Dawn Saunders the response to the flooding. It was excellent for the acted as a G6 Liaison Officer. Capt Saunders’ role involved Squadron to perform its role on a real operation and support liaising between 145 Brigade, 39 Signal Regiment and JFCIS as the local community.

71st (CITY OF LONDON) YEOMANRY SIGNAL REGIMENT BEXLEYHEATH

CO Lt Col JM Picton QC 31 (MIDDLESEX YEOMANRY AND PRINCESS LOUISE RSM WO1 (RSM) M Whitfield MBE KENSINGTON) SIGNAL SQUADRON

The Regiment would like to bid farewell to our departing Ops OC Maj Mike Curtis-Rouse Maj, Maj Ros Brown, who we wish well in her new post in SSM WO2 (SSM) Simon May Corsham and hope that she settles well in to the new house! SPSI SSgt Paul Tinsley In her place we welcome Maj ‘Scotty’ Scott. News from the Squadron – by Capt Amanda Washbrook The 2014 FTC Operational Shooting Competition – by Sgt Halmet Jules The last two months have been busy for all members of 31 (Middlesex Yeomanry and Princess Louise’s Kensington) This year’s OSC took place in May as opposed the usual April Signal Squadron, newly-formed from the merger of 47 slot and was split between Pirbright and Bisley Century range (Middlesex Yeomanry) in Uxbridge and 41 (Princess Louise’s instead of Ash ranges. I hadn’t shot on Bisley range since the Kensington) Signal Squadron in Coulsdon. Both were part of last century and it certainly brought back memories of having 31 Signal Regiment in recent times, so the newness and the to watch your footing while running down that range! We new name have a comfortable and familiar feel about them. entered A and B teams with the remainder shooting as After months of foggy anticipation, in the end the merger individuals. In a first for us, we went on to win the R SIGNALS happened quickly and the collision of sub-units is already Falling Plate competition (but got knocked out in the inter receding into the past. Soldiers are cheerfully working Corps competition – it was close). We came 3rd in the Pistol together and there’s a new liveliness about evening socials and 5th in the Rifle with the OC, Maj Alex Orr, coming 5th which has come from the welcome increase in numbers individually in the Corps - he had no problems reminding us training together. It is testimony to the efforts of all about later on – repeatedly. We also picked up Best Female, members that the overriding flavour of the transition has Sig Macintyre Barnes from 31 Sig Sqn, and LCpl Noble from been a positive, forward-looking one. 68 Sig Sqn who came 8th overall, an excellent effort. One of the effects of newness is to encourage self-reflection, I was not 3rd time lucky in winning the Other Arms Cup this throwing into relief the similarities and differences between year but that’s competition for you – we have the makings of the two former units. As someone who served in 41 before good new team and will see what the next season brings. transferring to 47 a few months prior to the merger, I’ve been pleased to see the way that my old and new friends have stepped up to the challenge and put on their best show for the new OC. Even the old and bold seem revitalised, with the skills from each former Squadron filling gaps in the other.

The Regiment’s shooting team has been galvanised with members from 41 and 47 and Cpl Goring proudly remarked to me that he and his colleagues from what was 41 have ‘already integrated with not just the Sqn but the Regt.’ The team took home the Falling Plate trophy at the Corps OSC (and three- quarters of the team were from 31) and came third overall in the inter-Corps competition, while Sig Macintyre Barnes, also ex-41, won best female rifle in the Corps.

The first test of 31 Sig Sqn was during Ex PHOENIX CANTER, The Regiment’s Shooting Team 25-27 April, a comms exercise with a CPX that tested soldiers

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 77 and officers at all levels. Everyone pulled together to haul countless vehicles out of the mud, which (if one overlooks the failings which necessitated this) was as encouraging as it was entertaining.

Since then we have also held a very successful Maintenance Weekend, 30 May – 1 Jun, which, thanks to the superb efforts of our chef Pte Burbridge, had the feel of a prolonged banquet (albeit one oddly interspersed with earnest equipment care). Everyone was a little weighed-down during Sunday morning’s hilarious baseball match, but the imaginative umpiring of Sgt North ironed out any differences in performance between the two (random) teams.

So overall, and apart from the fact that most people are still trying to remember what our full name is, things are going very well in our new Squadron. Our thrusting MT LCpl (ex-41), Capsize Drills who has brought her characteristic ‘zing’ (her words) to Uxbridge, bounced into my office this evening to tell me that The first weekend consists of learning the basic skills required from a juniors’ perspective, things are thriving. in both the kayak and the open boat, such as the health and safety of carrying the equipment, manoeuvring on the water 36 (ESSEX YEOMANRY) SIGNAL SQUADRON and the different paddle strokes as well as the safety skills needed to rescue yourself and others while on the water. The OC Maj Kirk Humphries river journey is done on the River Chelmer, the course did well SSM WO2 (SSM) Kevin Elliot this year with the weather helping to keep spirits high as all SPSI SSgt Dave Moore those involved had a dunk in the water. As the assisting instructor, I had the pleasure of demonstrating all rescue The move from 37 Signal Regiment to 71 (City of London) techniques so spent a great deal of the time jumping out of Yeomanry Signal Regiment has started in earnest and the the open boat and capsizing the kayak all in the aid of “watch majority of activities have been completed during April and in for a demonstration”. May 14, and the integration of 907 Troop at Chelmsford is moving forward at a pace.

The first Regimental Exercise, Ex PHOENIX GALLOP, was attended by the soldiers and officers of 36 (EY) Sig Sqn in May; this saw the Sqn deploy to SPTA to undertake further Bowman training in the field. For most it was the first time that they had deployed to the field and used cam nets. A lot was learnt at all levels within the Sqn, with Capt Raj Sherchan, SSgt (FofS) Trevor Webb and SSgt Rob Aldridge running the Sqn CP in the field. Other than the rain, and the long journey to SPTA, an enjoyable weekend which achieved a lot for the integration of the Sqn into the Regiment.

Congratulations to Sgt Adam and Cpl Elaine Witcomb on the recent birth of their son. All present were taught the basics of kayaking and open boating and how to apply it to lessons, as this course is the Well done to LCpl Michelle Hughes on completing her JNCO pre requisite to go onto becoming a BCU Level 1 coach. CLM in March 14 and to Sigs Fox and Chilton on completing Everyone got the opportunity to try out all instructors and passing their TSC(B). Cpl Crumpton-Taylor also personal kayaks as a taster to buying their own boats. I was successfully completed his Intermediate PTIs course. invited to assist them for part of their Ex ITCHY FOOT from 24 - 26 May 14, which is their Adventure Training week. Sig Cpl Maggie Kelly has recently deployed with 1 ADSR on Richard Gibbs was also invited to come along to allow an HERRICK 20 and the Sqn wishes her the best of luck and look opportunity to practice his new found paddle skills in a forward to her returning later this year. different location.

A welcome goes to Rcts Mead-Searle, Linsell and Lawlor and The location was Carsington Waters, near Stoke, where we the first Regular to transfer directly into the Reserves, Sgt took two groups of cadets out each day for paddle fun, from Mann, who have all recently attested and joined the Sqn. playing rafting games and tag to bulldog, all received a good soaking and lots of fun. After the weekend of paddling Sig Working with the Essex ACF for Kayaking Gibbs and I returned home while the reminder of cadets and - by LCpl Michelle Hughes instructors took part in climbing, abseiling, ranger work, hill walking and finishing with a day at Go Ape. From 18 - 20 April and 6 - 8 June, I assisted Essex ACF for the second year with their 2 star paddle award course and LONDIST Inaugural Sprint Triathlon Lake Foundation Training Rescue and Safety. The course consisted – by Sgt Ross Nugent of two weekends, the second being the assessment and a day’s river journey. 71 Signal Regiment’s first team entrance into the world of Triathlon was given a good start by WO2 ‘Ade’ Keeble and The course is held at Lydd Camp and the lake at range 39. LCpl David Backhouse from RHQ and Sgt Ross Nugent from Again the ACF invited personnel from a range of units, from 36 (Essex Yeomanry) Signal Squadron on 20 May 14 at Dorney the Essex and Kent ACF and 36 (EY) Sig Sqn, this year Sig Lake. Richard Gibbs also completed the course.

78 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 The team nervously arrived at the prestigious boating lake busy time when all preparations are gearing up for the First used during the Olympics and had plenty of time to sort World War commemorations at Berkhamsted, annual through borrowed wetsuits and bikes and watch other deployment to Sennelager in September and then the Lord obviously experienced triathletes prepare. Mayors Show and Remembrance Sunday in November. Being based in the centre of London and having more and more After an hour and a half delayed start where we got involvement with the Royal Signals means that there is always progressively more nervous about every part of the race, we the added bonus of carrying out various ceremonial tasks on were finally given the command to enter the water for the behalf of the Corps. Members of the Sqn have carried out 400m lake swim. Soon after an air horn signalled the start Lance Guard duties at the Savoy prior to the Corps Dinner in and we were hurled into a washing machine of swimmers, all May. fighting to get the shortest line to the first turn. After a very short swim it was onto the bike for 4 laps totalling 20km, Much focus over the recent months has been geared towards where there was some good encouragement between the the 70th Anniversary of D Day in Normandy. The Inns of Court team members; this was especially helpful on the out leg Regiment on which the basis of the Sqn is formed, liberated a which was into a light headwind. After the bike it was number of villages on D Day. A separate report on the trip is straight into the 5km run to the finish line where every shown below. Attention then moves to the commemorative member of Regiment’s team put in maximum effort. We parade at Berkhamsted in July. The Regiment trained over were all pleased with finishing and look forward to perhaps 10,000 troops prior to the start of the First World War and as nurturing a larger team for future events. it is the centenary this year we will be marking it with a memorial service and parade with the council and people of Overall Times: Berkhamsted. The memorial to the Regiment sits proudly on the edge of the third fairway of Berkhamsted golf course Sgt Nugent:- Senior 22nd with a time of 1:07:39 which needs inspecting at least once a month by the PSAO!! LCpl Backhouse:- Senior 23rd with a time of 1:08:38 WO2 Keeble:- V40 35th with a time of 1:14:38 Annual deployment will see the Sqn deploy for a two weeks to. Sennelager will host the ADE and should be a good test of the Sqn’s comms and military skills taught to date.

Our SQMS, SSgt Mick Goodwin, received a GOC London District's Commendation in recognition for his outstanding performance as the Casualty Visiting Officer following the death of a soldier in Northern Ireland after a road traffic accident. His stint as the CVO has lasted for over a year.

Finally, several members of the Sqn took part in the Operational Shooting Competition and had excellent results, winning the Falling Plate competition and some individuals achieving superb results overall.

Overall another busy period for the Sqn, but one that is relished by all those who serve in the IC&CY!

Exercise DEVILS RETURN – D Day Celebrations in Normandy L – R: WO2 Keeble, Sgt Nugent, LCpl Backhouse – by Capt John Donaldson

This year with it being the 70th Anniversary of the D Day 68 (INNS OF COURT & CITY YEOMANRY) SIGNAL SQUADRON landings, and with the Inns of Court Regiment heavily involved in those landings in 1944 at Juno Beach, 68 (IC&CY) OC Maj Alex Orr Sig Sqn organised and conducted a battlefield study over the SSM WO2 (SSM) James Paton weekend of the 05 -08 June. SPSI SSgt Jay Beattie We left amid bright sunshine from the Sqn HQ at Lincolns Inn News From The Squadron - by Capt John Donaldson and took a steady drive down to the Eurotunnel in our luxury coach. We felt that we needed to travel in style being as it The past few months have witnessed a major change in the was quite a significant event that we were attending. An dynamics of 68 Sig Sqn. The restructuring of the Regiment earlier train meant that we were ahead of schedule which and gaining of a new Sqn at Colchester has meant that our worked in our favour, as we approached our destination of 907 Troop based at Chelmsford has moved across now to Graye sur Mer the security cordon for the main events on the become part of 36 Sig Sqn. This now leaves the Sqn with 2 Friday was already in place. A nod and a wink to the locations to deploy from – Lincolns Inn, which is the SHQ, and Gendarmes meant that a painless transit through was Whipps Cross which is the main site for all of our vehicles and accomplished. SQMS location. With only having a Troop in each location, our main effort is to recruit a third Troop into Whipps Cross which We were staying at La Ruche, a fairly basic campsite with in turn will enable us to carry out our primary role within three outbuildings of various states of repair and comfort. London District. Recruiting is going well and under the However we made best use of the facilities and settled in guidance of Sgt Steve Warren and his team, LCpl Pete Fox well. A quick ground brief and then it was off into Courselles and Sig James Garrard, we should start to see the rise in for a much needed meal and a refreshing drink! Early morning deployable personnel from both locations. PT was started at 0630 and the Sqn members enjoyed their run down onto Juno Beach on what was the 06 June. In July we see the arrival of the new OC of the Sqn. Maj Alex Somehow I think it would all have been a bit different 70 Orr will finish his interim period of command and hand over years previous that particular morning! The OC, Maj Alex Orr, to Maj Sarah Trevellion who is arriving from her previous even managed to strip down and get into the sea for a swim! command appointment at Eastbourne. She arrives at a very

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 79 The SSM, WO2 (SSM) James Paton, and the PSAO, Capt John separate civic receptions. The first in Chouain and then by the Donaldson were required to conduct a series of rehearsals Mayor of Conde in his village. The welcome we received at with the various dignitaries who had organised proceedings both was overwhelming. for the following day which was to be our main day for the memorials service. We were joined by leading elements from Next stop was back to our own war memorial situated just up the Royal Engineer Squadron who were also staying at La from the beach at Juno. By this stage we had managed to Ruche. Once complete both the SSM and PSAO headed into have the services of the Royal Yeomanry band which provided Courselles to meet up with the remainder of the Sqn who had the musical essence required for such occasions. Hundreds of been conducting a study of the landings at Juno Beach. The locals turned out for the services and after another 6 services atmosphere around the whole of Normandy was fantastic and at various memorials around the Juno Beach and Graye sur on route we managed to chat to a couple of Canadian D Day Mer areas, we finally made it back to La Ruche for the final veterans outside the Juno Beach Centre. civic reception by the Mayor and villagers from Graye.

Lunch provided by the RE at La Ruche before we set off to visit Arronmanches. What greeted us when we arrived was incredible. The town was electric as they were in full preparations for the Royal visit and service at 1800hrs that evening. We were able to watch what was happening all over the rest of Normandy, and in particular the international service at Sword Beach attended by Her Majesty and other Heads of State. The tide was out so the whole beach was awash with various WW2 vehicles and re-enactment groups who were fully dressed as per 1944 dress regulations! The Royal Marines had a series of landing craft ashore which provided a great backdrop along with ‘Willys’ jeeps and other vehicles whizzing up and down the beach.

That evening we held a dinner in the Chateau des Vaux, which also doubled up as a mental institution, so great care was taken to ensure that some of our serving personnel were not mistaken for patients, and likewise we didn’t grow in numbers The Graye sur Mer memorial after the ceremony on 7 June as we left! Mind you, the patients may have performed better than some of our own!! The dinner was attended by all three Mayors of the villages that we were there to commemorate, The final event of the historic day was an open air concert along with various other dignitaries from the local community. played by the Royal Yeomanry band. They were superb and The Regimental Association of the Inns of Court used a thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. Pat Moore, a D Day bequest from Sgt John Bright to pay for the event. A superb veteran himself at the age of 94, was also on stage playing his gesture and one that he would of approved of. guitar to entertain the large crowd that had gathered! A truly awesome evening.

A final pack up of the campsite at La Ruche on the Sunday morning, and we were on the coach back to London. Overall a truly remarkable few days to commemorate those who paid the ultimate sacrifice 70 years ago on the beaches of Normandy. It was an honour to meet the D Day veterans and listen to their tales of what it was like all those years ago. Sadly for some it may well be their last big event to attend, but for them at least they will know that their memory will live on with the current troops of toady and all those that succeed them.

Memebers of the Sqn including the Sqn Hon Col, Sir Robert Finch KT, with D Day veteran, Mr Ken Robinson, who landed with the Inns of Court Regiment

After the glorious sunshine from the previous two days, Saturday morning was greeted with grey skies and eventually heavy rain. This could have proved to be a real dampener on our proceedings as we had several memorial services to conduct that day. However the sun broke through before the start of the first one and shone brilliantly for the remainder of the day. The initial 2 services were held at Jerusalem Crossroads where 5 members and 5 civilians were killed on 7 June 1944 by a ‘blue on blue’ incident involving an American fighter plane, and at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetry at Chouain. A truly moving moment when the children of the village laid red roses on each of the war graves within the PSAO, Capt John Donaldson, with Mr Ken Robinson, a D Day cemetery. After the services we were then greeted to two veteran

80 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 265 (KENT AND COUNTY OF LONDON YEOMANRY goodbye for the time being to the Squadron 2IC Capt Kerry (SHARPSHOOTERS)) SUPPORT SQUADRON Corrigan who is now on the un-posted list following a change in her civilian career. OC Maj Keith Wrate SSM SSgt (A/SSM) Leigh Griffiths With the hard work behind us, our eye is now focussed firmly SPSI SSgt Carl Shackleton on the ADE, which will see us deploy to Sennelager in Germany. This is an old stamping ground for some of the News from the Squadron – by Maj Keith Wrate Squadron but a brand new experience for others. As the Squadron AO, Bev! Simmons, collects passports, insurance As the only Squadron within the Regiment not to undergo a and medical information, the A/SSM chases for attendance major restructure as part of A2020, our focus has been purely sheets and SSgt Daz Lane updates driving records, it brought on training and, as usual, it’s been a busy period with a varied the inevitable response of ‘I bet they didn’t need all this 70 programme of Adventure Training, Equipment Care, Sports, years ago when we went to Germany’. Communications and MATTS to keep us on our toes. Sometimes I wonder at how we fit it all in. This has seen us Nijmegen Qualifying – by SSgt ‘Shacks’ Shackleton (SPSI) deploy all over the SE of England – Folkestone and Salisbury Plain for the Regimental Communications Exercises, Isle of April saw the coming of the eagerly anticipated 71 Sig Regt Wight for some adventurous sailing and ATE Lydd for some Nijmegen Qualifying at RAF Cosford. shooting. The team travelled over night on Friday 25th, arriving at RAF For my own part, this has been added to by training for the Cosford at 0100hrs to find there was no more space in the Nijmegen March and so I should start by recognising the tent the RAF had kindly given the Army as accommodation. efforts of A/SSM SSgt Leigh Griffiths for leading the Squadron With very little rest we were all soon lined on the square in on a couple of exercises whilst I’ve been ‘off walking’. our teams for 0700hrs only for the RAF in true fashion to delay the start by 45mins due to technical difficulties (No Equipment Care, the new ECI regime has been a big part of Ambulance). the programme this year and we have done well, although some improvements are still needed. Over the past few We were, all 2000 of us, soon on our way and with the weeks, the parts played by SSgts ‘Shacks’ Shackleton, ‘Daz’ weather looking like it may hold out, it seemed set to be a Lane and Paul Thwaite cannot be underestimated. Under good day, that was until the cadets started to sing their their watchful eye, the members of the Log Sp Troop headed songs, which there are only four different types. With Maj up by SSgt Dave Haskell have polished, counted, checked, Sean Wardle “Naving” and Cpl ‘What did you say’ Paul oiled, stacked and restacked to ensure everything is in order. Broardbent taking the pace we where soon making good time. By half way the team was still in high spirits but that Having achieved that, the trick now is to keep it at that state was not to last as the concert was taking its toll on the feet of readiness. Our efforts appear to already be rewarded as and the weather changing for the worst. we have taken delivery of two more Bowman detachments (where do they all come from?) and re-configured into a With the help of LCpl ‘Crazy’ Crane’s life story’s the team Comms Troop and Log Support. managed to limp round the last 6 miles with the last mile being round RAF Cosford, another nice gift by the RAF. Day The sailing was well attended. We put two boats into the one was over with the team looking forward to a nice shower, Devils Own Regatta at Seaview on the Isle of Wight. Expertly hot food and a nights sleep. After waiting for one of the ten skippered by SSgt Leigh Griffiths and Sgt Roy Carpenter showers and then having to walk to the other side of camp everyone had a fun and challenging experience. For Sig for some food the team had a much needed drink in the bar Danny Wilsher it was his first such experience on the water. waiting for the team Capt’s brief, but by 2100hrs everyone in We are looking forward to the event next year, even if it is the team was in bed ready for day two. only for Sgt Carpenter to return the prize of the Rusty Shackle! After a lay in we were all back on the square ready for the 0745hrs start but the RAF stayed true to their form by yet The MATTS/Shooting weekend Ex PHOENIX SHOT saw us another technical difficulty and a delay of 30mins, with better deploy to the wilds of Lydd Camp on the Kent coast and once weather and a good nights sleep the team was in good form again we were able to meet up an old Sqn member Cpl for day two and we were all on our way. After making good Graham French (now MPGS) and his dog that form part of the time we came to the only hill on the course, as we came to team that keeps us safe whilst we sleep. The weather was the crest of the hill Cpl ‘Hero’ Sutton sprang to the aid of a glorious and so one of the main hazards was once again the cadet that had been clearly singing to much and had sun. The 265 team under the watchful eye of SSgt ‘Shacks’ collapsed, The two medics in the team then sprang into Shackleton had two main roles – The new LF 4 on the action, Maj Sean Wardle checking all the vital signs and LCpl Saturday with the GPMG introduction on the Sunday. Ably Andy Turner with good bed side manner, holding his hand assisted by the newly promoted Sgt Jim Sutton who, despite telling him he will be fine. the lofty heights of his new position was consigned to the back of the vehicle, SSgt Leigh Griffiths and the OC After this 45min stop and the ambulance taking the cadet to determined to keep using his range qualification, we deployed the Med Centre, we were back on our way and with no other to the ranges only to find that they were the wrong ones. incidents finished the qualifier within the time. Once the final team was in the prize giving parade took place and to our After a morning travelling to and fro, we finally agreed it was surprise 71 Sig Regt won the Best Army Team, with Maj ‘Now not going to be our day and so we left the firing that day to Pte’ Wardle collecting the prize on behalf of the team and those with the correct ranges whilst we honed our skills on also collecting a port fine once the qualifying was done. GPMG dry training for the afternoon. We would like to thank the Admin team Cpl ‘GPS’ Myers and On the personnel side, I could not finish without recognising Sgt ‘Sat Nav’ Bontoft for all their support to the team, all in all the achievements of two members of the Squadron whose everyone in the team enjoyed the weekend and are now efforts have lead to their promotion. Maj Sean Wardle and looking forward to a week in Holland in July for Nijmegen Sgt Jim Sutton, both very well deserved. We also say itself.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 81 NEWS FROM SQUADRONS

7 ARMOURED BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL SQUADRON (207) BERGEN - HOHNE

OC Maj J Davies to gather his confidence, however I am sure he just felt bad OC ROG Capt G Middleton leaving Sgt Green behind. RSM WO1 (RSM) S Wedge The evening gave everyone time to recover from their injuries The Sqn that remains in Hohne still find themselves running at and time was made for swimming, saunas, and a BBQ a hundred miles an hour as we support a number of exercises provided by our brilliant chef, Cpl Rai. One particular evening and events to celebrate the Bde’s success on Op HERRICK 19. we spent at the Irish bar participating in the weekly quiz We now have the majority of our soldiers back and it is great where Cpl Muhl’s secret life as an avid bird watcher came in to see them here, safe and sound in sunny Hohne. The Sqn very helpful. will now start looking to our re-subordination on 1 Aug 14 to 16 Signal Regiment, however between now and then there is Overall a very good experience and our instructor Cpl Machin a lot of effort and work to be done before we hand over and made everyone realise their actual potential as a skier…. After close our accounts. all he spent just as much time on the floor as everyone else. SF1 gained by all, and remedial Skiing for Sgt Green. Well Exercise RED RAT POWDER MOUNTAIN – by Sig Eccles worth it.

Ex RED RAT POWDER MOUNTAIN was a skiing based exercise Paintballing – by Sig Eccles carried out in Oberstdorf, south west Germany, to enable participants to learn the fundamentals of skiing with the aim On 9 May the Squadron undertook a day of paintballing of achieving their Ski Foundation Level 1 (SF1) qualification. organised by LCpl Connon to mark the leaving of WO2 (RQMS) Williams. After the lengthy 5 minute journey down Early hours of Sunday 6 April we set off on our gruelling 8 the range road we arrived at the training area just in time for hour drive, eventually reaching our destination of the ALPINE the organised rainfall to start and really set the mood for a DREAMS lodge – although I don’t think that WO2 Trott and gruelling day. A quick safety brief on the weapons and target Cpl Danny Muhl remember much of the journey due to how identification of the RQ in his custom made, target much fun they were having (being fast asleep for 8 hours). emblazoned, outfit and everyone was ready to begin.

Skiing commenced on the Monday and it is fair to say that skill Sig ‘Cheat’ Eccles and Sig ‘Olly’ Lippitt were selected to be levels all around were pretty much rubbish, including Sgt Jim team captains, and then came the opportunity to pick teams. Green who had spent the entire previous week skiing/falling Fortunately our Troop Staffy SSgt ‘No Mates’ Lowes was with style. We did however manage to brighten up the day there to ensure no one felt left out by being the last picked, for our numerous onlookers as we fell on our faces numerous as he was a dead cert for the position. times. By the end of day 1 we were all fairly comfortable with how to stop and turn….with the exception of Sgt Green. There were many games played, and not many rules were abided by, with the winning team usually being the one which Day 2 and Sig ‘Bald Head’ Sharp earned himself the nick name could cheat the best. ‘Speed Demon’ because he was fast in a straight line, however completely forgot the lessons of the previous day, The blue team prevailed thanks to some exemplary displays of struggling to turn or stop and usually resulting in a wipe out. valour/stupidity with several members bearing the brunt of sustained fire from the entire red team in an attempt to rush After a few days everyone was moving around the slopes with the enemy position. Having WO1 (RSM) ‘The Biggest Cheat’ a fair amount of confidence (Sgt Green had retired to a Café Wedge on their team also helped a lot. somewhere we think). Sig ‘Captain Slow’ Lippitt was the last All in all a good day was had by all, and also farewell to WO2 (RQMS) Williams and his family.

82 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Exercise RED RAT SCHOLAR – by Sig Parkinson and Sig Witter and would not leave the subject alone. Funnily enough when fish and chips were on display, he was left to panic. Luckily it This was a Morality of War and educational visit held at The was the most delicious cod he had eaten. We were Church House of Lubecke, night which was an old Hitler youth encouraged to leave no food or wine on the table, which lead establishment. This also included a formal dinner, an tipsily onto the night's events at the cheapest bar in NATO. overnight stay and a trip to Wewelsburg Castle. The highlight of the night was, with 20 minutes left until bar closure, we were challenged by Capt Middleton to each buy a So we will start at the beginning. It starts off with the troops round of drinks totalling 14 of the finest spiced rums. For the falling asleep until we arrive at Lubecke. On our arrival we sake of our own “health” we only made it to 9. made our way up a large hill which led to Church House and its neighbouring building the Crossed Keys House. We were greeted at the entrance by the Padre of the house, who led us on a tour of the surrounding area. But first a quick health and safety brief was to be endured, this was delivered by the house Sgt.

In the morning we met for breakfast before setting off to Wewelsburg. The first thing we did there was have a tour of the town and were shown key areas relating to the Nazi era. Among those shown were the original guard room of the concentration camp which was known as Niederhagen Concentration Camp, in which 1285 people’s lives were sadly taken. Another feature shown was the chimney that was used to release the fumes of the burned prisoners, which still After the brief, the tour of the house began. Firstly we were stands to this day and is now used as part of a tiling factory. showed the exterior surroundings in which we walked to the Crossed Keys House over the hill. It was explained to us that We then made our way to the castle which was one of Hitler’s in 1934 Herr August Blasé, who was a cigar factory owner, had projects led by his trusted associate Himmler. His plans for commissioned the building. It is said that he was good friends this place would be to make it the centre of the new world if with a man called Herr Mayer, who had built the Taurus house they had won the war. Inside currently there is a museum in Hiddenbasen near Herford, which is now the residence of which details the SS plan and various cafés and bars. We the General Officer Commanding of the 1st UK Armoured were led through the castle to the underground vault which Division. Herr Blase was so impressed with this house that he was fascinating, this was due to the room being designed and built his own bigger version which was so magnificent Herr constructed in such a way that it is perfectly symmetrical. Mayer was furious and decided to never speak to him again. This meant that if you were to stand in the centre of the room Unsurprisingly Herr Blase was not the only admirer of the and speak it sounded like you was speaking to yourself. villa. Because of his connections he became a prominent Nazi and gained this reputation by leaving the cigar industry behind to make ammunition for the Nazis. The house then became a lavish hotspot for “Hitler’s brown shirts” the early makings of the infamous SS. It is said that both Himmler and Goering stayed at the residence.

We were then invited into the Church House, or back then known as The Schulubngsburg training centre. The house’s main features evolved around a ship themed interior as Adolf Hitler wanted his “Hitler Youth” to recognise and adapt to this style. Its purpose was to ideologically train mentally and physically the young boys into future leaders of Nazi Germany. Teaching activities began officially in June 1939. The building's architecture was designed in such a way that the Hitler youth were inspired by the Nazi ideals, an example of this is the parade square which was designed to resemble Overall we felt the trip was very insightful and good two days the German eagle. Whoever was to be standing in the centre experience. We would recommend this to anyone currently of the eagle represented the leader of their country. serving or staying in Germany and we think that it is very much related to the role we do. We would personally like to The building was also plastered with swastikas and was seen thank the Padre and the Church house for providing us with to be the basic training ground. accommodation, food and an excellent tour guide.

Dinner time then approached and we all gathered around the Nijmegen Qualifiers – by Sig McAlister old officer's table to enjoy a 3 course feast, which for us was one of the finest meals we have all had to date (excluding the 0615hrs on Wednesday 30 April outside the RHA scoff house officers). Sig Cooper started the meal off by kindly saying stood 15 guys waiting to embark on 2 days of hell. The grace before we all went overboard on the self service scoff. Nijmegen qualifiers consist of 2 days tabbing for 26 miles Beforehand there was a rumour that they were serving canal carrying 10 kilograms. The Nijmegen march itself is 100 miles pike and chips which Sig Dinsdale was not impressed with over a 4 day period in the middle of July in Holland.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 83 After a quick breakfast we made sure that there was enough Race the Sun – by Sig Cuffe zinc oxide tape on our feet to get us through the day then we were on our way. The route was simple, 13 miles up the range Race the Sun is an annual running/cycling/swimming event road and back again, not the most scenic of routes but it had held at 2 Sig Regt in York. This year's race was the 24th to do. There were 2 resting points, one 6 miles near a big anniversary and especially important for 207 Sig Sqn due to comms tower which became our visual rendezvous and the the fact that it will be their last event together before other at the half way mark where we had lunch (range stew). merging with 16 Sig Regt.

Towards the end of the tab my feet were in agony but not as The team entered consisted of Maj Davies, Lt Painter, WO1 much as Sig Witter who was walking like he had an accident (RSM) Wedge, WO2 (FofS) Trott, SSgt Caplis, SSgt Hemming, in his pants. The finish line seemed to evade us until the sight Sgt Best, Sgt Thorburn, Cpl McQueen, Cpl Barron, Cpl Wood, of the Brigadier's house then we knew we weren’t that far. LCpl Watts, Sig Croxon, Sig Cuffe and Sig Smith. It was an early start for Sig Smith who was entering the chilly waters Day 1 completed, and we had lost 4 guys to the gruelling pain for the first event – a kayak race. He wasn’t too happy about of consistently walking on tarmac. The 11 remaining people having to be ready for 0400hrs, but I’m sure he was even met up at the same time as the previous day. Our feet unhappier when his race eventually didn’t start until 0500hrs. covered in blisters, our shoulders numb from the weight we carried the day before but we had enough Ibuprofen to keep The last event and arguably the most gruelling was the team us going for a whole year. This aside we were halfway to the stretcher race. The team consisted of 6 members, which finishing point and there was no going back. were Lt Painter, WO1 (RSM) Wedge, Sgt Best, Cpl Wood, LCpl Watts and Sig Smith. The start of this event was signalled by Tabbing for a longer distance than we were used to we found a chosen member of the team sprinting approximately 400m hotspots on our feet and ached in muscles we didn’t know we before the stretcher could be moved, two laps around the had. After another half a roll of zinc tape wrapped around camp was then the challenge ahead with many of the on our feet and 2 Ibuprofen we were ready to go. The second lookers clapping and cheering throughout. day wasn’t as hard as the first as we knew what to expect. As a team, the effort given was 110%, but unfortunately one or 52 miles done and the qualifier was over, but the day wasn’t two members managed to get lost; whether or not that was quite finished as me being the new “sprog” in the Squadron I due to missing a tac sign, or perhaps a civilian playing a had my ‘welcoming drinks’. My day was then complete when practical joke which led to many annoyed competitors. I watched a dehydrated Sig Parkinson vomit all over himself out the back of the Sqn bar after drinking “water” too fast. Unfortunately as a team we couldn’t manage a podium spot for some silverware but we left York knowing we gave it our all, especially Sig Smith who deposited the contents of his stomach during our team photograph, which made for a fantastic momento.

Next years Race will be the 25th anniversary. Hopefully the record for the most teams entered (29) will be broken.

These 2 days were a great experience and are a good insight of what it is to come on the Nijmegen march in July.

16 AIR ASSAULT BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL SQUADRON (216) COLCHESTER

A Troop Overview – by LCpl Laval-Chesterton turnaround and a chance to let our hair down ‘slightly’ after a successful deployment. A ‘relaxing’ time in store for Alpha Troop as we move from Ops Troop to MST Troop…! With A Tp (Ops) handing over to B Tp (MST) becoming the next big thing on the never ending list of jobs; the whole In our final months as Ops Tp we deployed on CAST (N), Troop spent weeks locating and checking kit, equipment and where we set up the Main HQ whilst a few lucky assets stayed serial numbers, which proved slightly stressful for the likes of behind (no mention of names; LCpl ‘Youngbag’ Young). We Sig ‘Cassandra Trotter’ Barfield who was relieved when established and maintained vital communications for the everything was done and dusted. During this time a few Brigade Staff giving the men of Alpha Troop a chance to learn members of the Troop deployed on Ex JOINT WARRIOR and revise different types of communication systems. This including LCpl Marcus ‘Laurent’ Baker who was assigned to 3 was all closely monitored by the watchful eye of SSgt Gaz PARA as a Rear Link Detachment Signaller on CO’s TAC. ‘OCD’ Allan. On return from Catterick we had exercise

84 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 At the beginning of this month we had new arrivals start from Detachments. This task proved there was no wrong answer the factory including Sig Cooper, Sig Williams, Sig O’Donnell as both groups could justify their sighting of the MAIN HQ. and Sig Thornton. Not forgetting our new instrumental Cpl, The solutions involved using imagination, common sense and Dava ‘Mickey Pearce’ Harmison. Since being on MST Troop the groups provided good arguments to back up their we have had two Basic Parachute Course completions; LCpl selections. For the next period of instruction the Troop were ‘Lizard Jonny Tight Face’ Laval-Chesterton and Sig Barfield. provided with VHF and HF man-pack radios. The Troop then went through setting up the radios from filling the set, to In the coming months Alpha Troop are looking forward to CT1 giving a radio check and voice procedure to build confidence and LFTT packages, more parachuting, career courses and when on the net. maybe some leave… Wednesday saw the Troop get their hands on the OLRT. LCpl BRAVO TROOP Micklethwaite taught the standard set up, logging on and basic fault finding procedures. It was good to see the newer OC Lt Mapplebeck lads fresh from Blandford get stuck into learning the new SSgt SSgt Wear equipment. Thursday included lessons on electronic warfare, 117F Tac-Sat and voice procedure. The 117F Tac-Sat lesson was It has been a busy period in Bravo Troop with the Troop a highlight especially for the newer lads, as 117F Tac-Sat is the having to re-roll as the ‘Squadron Operations Troop’. This led primary communications system used within the Brigade. The to the Squadron deploying on Ex JOINT WARRIOR, with final written test took place on Friday and was given to the members of the Troop filling various roles from the Main Troop to see what improvements had been made over the Brigade HQ down to Rear Link Detachment (RLD) roles within week. There was a significant improvement in knowledge and the Parachute Regiment. Prior to this the Troop was able to confidence. The entire Troop agreed the week was very embark upon adventurous training, various courses and Troop productive and readied them for Ex JOINT WARRIOR. sports activities. Exercise EAGLES AID – by Sig Carter The Troop has also welcomed 2Lt Tippett and 2Lt Mason from RMAS, welcome back to Sgt Summerfield returning from C Ex EAGLES AID was a medical cadre organised by Cpl Tucker Troop and Sig Mitchell fresh from Phase 2 training at which took place within Bravo Troop at the start of the year. Blandford. The Troop has also said farewell to Sig Gannon, The cadre involved lessons on the BCDT aide memoire, Sig Greasley and Cpl Clarke, all of whom were influential concentrating on the master drill, care under fire, and casevac members of the Troop and will surely be missed. Further procedures along with Basic Life Support. departures from the Troop are Lt Mapplebeck who has been whisked away from us to Sqn Ops to prepare him for his next The beginning of the week was classroom based and looked posting to ATR Pirbright. We also say goodbye to SSgt Wear into the theory of BCDT. These theories would be put in who is leaving us for 7 Battalion REME at Wattersham. practice later in the week. After gathering the BCDT booklets from Cpl Brown, Bravo Troop went to Friday Woods to put Exercise ROLING EAGLE – by Sig Wookie into practice care under fire within various scenarios.

Ex ROLLING EAGLE was a great opportunity for Bravo Troop After setting up a linear harbour in a wood line the group was to relax after a busy start to the year. It also assisted in the divided in two and took part in a lesson on carrying/moving gelling of the Troop prior to their deployment on Ex JOINT casualties taken by LCpl Winson. Once the teaching period WARRIOR and for the newer members of the Troop to come was over we practiced section attacks under the watchful eye out of their shells. It all started at 0800hrs on Friday 14 March of SSgt Wear. Whilst completing these attacks the Troop had at the Cpl Budd VC gymnasium for a day of zorb football to carry out casevacs on various members of the Troop. To organised by Cpl Farley. Once the lads saw the zorb footballs conclude, our general skills and drills were improved and the there was a palpable sense of excitement for what was to Troop now has a higher level of competence in BCDT. The come. The event originally started as a football game but Troop is fully competent on the roles and responsibilities of quickly descended into a mass royal rumble; this carried on Section Commanders, 2ICs and Signallers within the sections for the whole 2 hours. Replacements were required thick and when it comes to care under fire. fast due to the tiring nature of the activity. LCpl McComb stopped after his first session in the balls due to the constant Exercise JOINT WARRIOR - Main HQ – by Sig MacLellan battering he received. For the Brigade HQ, Ex JOINT WARRIOR began on 28 March The troop really enjoyed Ex ROLLING EAGLE with prizes given in Merville Barracks Colchester. The Troop drove to the Joint to Sig Burns for most skilled player, for his ability to be Air Movement Control Centre in South Cerney to complete knocked over and yet still land on his feet. Other awards a Dangerous Air Cargo (DAC) check prior to their move to went to Cpl Tucker for best endeavour due to his inability to West Freugh airfield. Cpl Cox and Cpl Tucker had a team of stay on his feet throughout the activity. Overall this activity 8 emperors behind them to facilitate setting up the much was a great success bringing the Troop together ready to anticipated re-rolled Brigade HQ. The Brigade HQ was built confront the challenges of Ex JOINT WARRIOR. within a building of opportunity on West Freugh airfield. It was then populated with new communication systems, which Exercise EAGLES CALLING – by LCpl Winson replaced the BOWMAN data network.

With Ex JOINT WARRIOR on the horizon the Bravo Troop The new communication systems that were to be tried and Corporals, Cpl Cox and Cpl Farley, put on a communications tested were: MANTIS MSAT which provides SSS phones and cadre for the rest of the Troop. This cadre was designed for DII secret capability. MAGPIE OLRT providing a collaborative the troops to gain confidence and negate any skill fade on the working environment consisting of 4 UADs with Microsoft kit and equipment. The Monday morning saw the Troop (MS) Office, allowing full interoperability with Project Magpie. complete a written test, to gauge everyone’s base 117F Integrated Waveform (IW) was used for voice, this turns knowledge. There were a few good scores with Sig Farminer one TACSAT channel into fourteen allowing many more users. and Sig Brewster achieving the top scores. After the written This concept is rarely utilised however Sig Iatsenko showed test we split into two groups and as with the Class One course great aptitude when setting up this system and keeping it we were given the task of sighting a MAIN HQ and its operational. These new systems helped the Bde HQ run more

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 85 efficiently by providing the staff with familiar MS programs John ‘Signaller’ Dodson. Further changes to the hierarchy such as MS Lync and Outlook. They also gave the Bde a real also see Sgt Corbett depart for pastures new in Bongo Troop, time picture of events as they unfolded during the exercise. as we welcome newly posted in Sgt Nelson. A large scale influx of Signallers from Blandford and other Units means that As with all these new systems there were some teething they will have to wait until they pass P Coy to earn their issues throughout the exercise, however these were quickly mention in The Wire, however the final farewell is reserved for rectified. The new systems were a great success with the Sig Dale ‘Paco’ Fulton. Loaded onto BPC immediately prior to Squadron now weaning itself off Bowman data. The move his posting to 2 Signal Regiment, the Squadron were pleased towards a more modular system assures the smooth running to see him leave with a set of wings on his shoulder. of Brigade HQ on future exercises. Support Troop – by Sig Scullion Ex JOINT WARRIOR flew by and before we knew it ENDEX was called. A mass tear down ensued, followed by an epic road After a very busy New Year 216 (Para) Signal Squadron move from West Freugh back to Colchester. Quartermaster’s Department finally got the chance for a little down time and a little team bonding. Exercise JOINT WARRIOR - Rear Link Detachment – by LCpl Billingham On Wednesday 12 March, WO2 (RQMS) ‘Nipper’ Sherlock arranged a range day with the new Glock pistol. I know what 216 (Parachute) Signal Squadron provides a rear link you're thinking rather have a sporty! The weather was detachment (RLD) for the Main Battle Group, which this year perfect, not a cloud in the sky, we arrived at the armoury to is 3 Parachute Regiment. The Squadron provides within this get our hands on the newly fielded Glock 17 9mm pistol. The detachment: 4 CS Operators, 1 Royal Signals CS Engineer and 1 new sidearm is lighter and more accurate than its Royal Signals Electrician, all of whom have passed P Company. predecessor, the Browning, which has previously been used for over 40 years. Before deploying to Scotland the whole Battle Group met MCCP at South Cerney to have their vehicles checked over by On completion of the requisite weapon training and the . Once cleared through, the Battle Group subsequent completion of the weapon handling test, we was set off in packets making the gruelling 10 hour drive to the made our way to the 25m range a short walk away. We were sunny shore of West Freugh. all extremely eager to fire these new sidearm. After some addition SAA training delivered by the RCO, WO2 (RQMS) Arriving at the airfield the Companies were briefed up on Sherlock, we were finally ready to start shooting, which possible future tasks and began rehearsals using Chinooks, started with grouping at various distances. Following lunch in Apaches, Lynxs and a C-130. Attached to B Company was Sig a brown bag, the real competition started and following Clifford and to C Company Sig Burns. various shoots the scores where rallied up.

Orders were given for both B and C Company to carry out an No one could catch the QM, Capt Kev Read, who was on fire air assault with the objective being the capture of an enemy hardly missing a shot with small group sizes. His eyesight is airfield (RAF Kinloss). During this time A Company were on good considering his seniority in age. His closest contender call back in West Freugh. Whilst B and C Companies were for “Top Shot” was the SQMS, SSgt ‘Coops’ Cooper, but even assaulting the airfieldLCpl Billingham alongside an element of he didn’t get a sniff at the title!! He did, however, achieve the 2 Platoon A Company were called out to secure the perimeter smallest group size; not a bad consolation despite coming of a ‘NO DUFF’ situation. This turned out to be a downed second. The favourite for “Top Shot” on the day following Apache. The tasking was improved when locals arrived her form during a previous shooting competition was Sgt providing bacon rolls and eggs which were much appreciated. Sarah Smyth. The pressure was clearly on and she simply The Platoon was replaced at the downed Apache by the Army didn’t deliver!! Air Corps and were flown back to West Freugh. They were subsequently re-tasked and deployed on to the ground in time At 1700hrs everyone thanked the RQMS for what was a for a Battle Group attack. fantastic and well deserved day out of the office. Finally, we cleaned the pistols ready for another shoot and of course in CHARLIE TROOP preparation for the forthcoming ECI!!

OC Lt Dodson MT/LAD TROOP SSgt SSgt Richardson OC Capt Oliver Troop Overview – by Sig Stark SSgt SSgt Conley

A steadily busy couple of months saw Charlie Troop Sandhurst Triathlon – by Sgt Coatsworth committed to 2 large scale Squadron deployments. CAST (N) presented the first challenge to which the Troop was to rise, Sgt Bobby Coatsworth and Cpl Thomas ‘Wiggins’ Gibbons providing many of those deployed with their first look at the represented a 5 man Sqn team at the Army Sprint Triathlon reworked Bde Main HQ. Ex JOINT WARRIOR, in ‘sunny’ Championships which was held at the Royal Military Academy Scotland, soon followed with all deployed members of the Sandhurst. With this being Cpl Gibbons’ first ever triathlon Troop performing to the highest of standards as expected of event, the day couldn’t have started any better. Firstly, test an Airborne/Air Assault Signaller. Each and every man directly riding his loaned road bike around the car park prior to the contributed to an all round successful exercise. With exercise race starting, Cpl Gibbons forgot that his feet were actually turnaround relatively painless, the subsequent Sqn BBQ (and attached to the pedals and he couldn’t release them prior to the meat of the non-ration pack variety available) presented creaming into an officer at the side of the minibus!!. the perfect setting to unwind prior to departing on Easter Secondly, minutes after finally releasing his feet from the Leave. bike, he realised that he had forgotten his running trainers, resulting in him completing the 5km run phase in his flat Nike Large scale changes in the Troop see the us say farewell to (big tongued) street shoes. Sgt Coatsworth managed to former Tp Comd Lt Pete ‘Did you know I won the Agar coach Cpl ‘Novice’ Gibbons around the course, resulting in 216 Memorial Prize’ Stradling, and welcome new Tp Comd Lt being crowned Army Minor Unit Sprint Triathlon champions.

86 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Arrivals and Departures

May 2014 has seen the departure of Cpl Carl ‘Wally’ Wallis, shortly to be replaced by LCpl Luke Dyer in early June. The Troop would like to bid ‘Wally’ a final farewell and wish him all the very best for the future. Early June will also see the arrival of Sig Cargoe and LCpl ‘Kristofer’ Monaghan who will be replacing LCpl Adam Hanson who is still firmly holding onto the door fighting an inevitable posting out of the Sqn.

Super Tom Competition - by Cpl Milson

The 216 (Para) Sig Sqn Super Tom Competition 2014 was a physically and mentally arduous event designed to test Signallers and Craftsmen of the Sqn in a number of military and leadership orientated tasks.

At 0730hrs on 1 May 14, the 21 competitors paraded at the Cpl Sgt Coatsworth and Cpl Gibbons Brian Budd VC Gymnasium to receive an opening brief and a thorough kit check. Once the DS were satisfied that everyone was prepared for the day’s events, the competitors were told Football – by Cpl Thomas to prepare their equipment for flotation and a Combat Military Swim Test. This month's football has been coming thick and fast for the Sqn, with four members from the Troop in the starting 11. Cfn Frenzied packing ensued and a whole range of canoe sacks Euan ‘Pizza Face’ Graham in between the sticks, Sgt John and bergan liners were wrapped around daysacks in a ‘Grounds Keeper Willy’ Buchan on the right wing, Sgt Bobby desperate bid to aid buoyancy. Fortunately, on contact with ‘Miaggi’ Coatsworth and Cpl Bryn ‘Rat’ Thomas up front. the water in the swimming pool, everyone managed to stay Most notable event this month was our only loss in four afloat, even Sig Tranter who for unknown reasons decided to games, to 1 (UK) ADSR in the semi final of the Signals Cup . carry out the test in his smock! The game was a hard fought contest with 1 Div stealing the win in the last 5 minutes, after intense pressure from 216. On completion of the swim, the competitors raced outside to receive their information packs and maps and were set loose Festival of Sport - by SSgt Beaman into the Friday Woods Training Area. The following nine hours saw the individuals moving between 14 challenging stands 49 Bde held a festival of sport day with the Sqn entering including a very wet and muddy BCDT scenario, a physical teams in, Badminton, X country, Basketball and Football. The challenge which utilized a number of jerry cans, tyres, ammo MT/LAD was fortunate enough to have 5 individuals chosen to boxes and the obstacle course, several written tests and a represent the Sqn in three of the events. SSgt Craig Beaman couple of command tasks. At the end of a very long day, the competed in the X country event which consisted of a 6 mile competitors moved to a centralised location where they were run over arduous terrain, he came 16th out of 70, finishing in a given their final task – A 1.5 mile run with equipment to Alpha very respectable time of 36 minutes. Sig ‘Evo’ Evans was Troop Garages. selected to represent the Sqn’s Basketball team, who came away winners of the Minor Unit Basketball competition, however, after watching the final I can safely say that Sig Evans was obviously chosen for his height!!!. Like the Basketball team, the football team consisting of Sgt Bobby ‘Charlton’ Coatsworth, Cpl Bryn ‘toey’ Thomas and Cfn Euan ‘David Seaman’ Graham, won (smashed) the Minor Unit Football competition, winning all 5 games, scoring ONLY 22 goals. After all the events had finished 216 (Para) Sig Sqn were crowned Minor Unit winners. A fantastic day was had by all competitors and we thoroughly look forward to the next event.

Adrenalin kicked in one last time as the men moved as quickly as possible to the finish line and in a superb effort, Sig Malin crossed the line first in under 10 minutes. It didn’t take long for the remaining competitors to cross the line and once all had done so, they were given chance to shower before receiving a well deserved curry. The results were quickly processed and the Officer Commanding, Maj Clarke declared the winner to be Sig (now LCpl) Dylan Farminer who had consistently scored high throughout the day. Congratulations to him and all who took part in the competition. All to play for next year, even you Sig Tranter.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 87 Exercise EAGLES ENIGMA - by Cpl Black and Cpl Milson Meanwhile, the Interoperability team were introduced to their 82nd Airborne Division counterparts and received a On 6 May 14, 15 individuals from 216 (Parachute) Signal number of demonstrations on their new Future Soldier Squadron deployed on Exercise EAGLES ENIGMA 1 to Fort Radios. Lighter, more workable and a lot more modern, they Bragg, North Carolina, USA. Split into two teams with very were extremely envious of what they were shown. different roles; Interoperability and Adventure Training Recce. Relying on DHL to deliver our OLRT and radio equipment was Following a dreadful flight in which various parts of the plane clearly a mistake as we found ourselves with a week to fill, so were fixed with duct tape by air hostesses, we arrived in the it was off to the beach. The interoperability team found state capital, Raleigh and were hit with a temperature of 92° themselves taking an early R&R to ‘The Redneck Riviera’ or F, much to the dismay of Cpl ‘Hannibal Wreckhead’ McCoy. Myrtle Beach as it is otherwise known. Within the hour Sig We picked up our rental cars and made our way to Fort Bragg, ‘Greedy Bugger’ Barton and Cpl ‘Blackzilla’ Black found home of the 82nd Airborne Division. As the two teams would themselves stranded like castaways after a short romantic be splitting up the following day, we headed straight to the walk down the beach. Four hours of looking, with no phone, local steakhouse and enjoyed a few beers together. money, hotel key, t shirts or footwear they stumbled across Unfortunately there were no 32oz steaks left, but due to the the remainder of the team having the ‘best day ever’ in a local American sized portions, no one was left hungry. bar. After a few heavy nights working on international relations and a few disappearances the men packed up the The next morning saw the Adventure Training Recce Team hotel rooms and took a drive north to Fort Bragg. depart for Ashville, a small mountain town four hours north- After a week of waiting the equipment finally arrived and the west of Fort Bragg. The team spent two busy days in and Interoperability trial could begin. With the Engineers and around the town collecting information on various activities Operators splitting into two teams, YofS Risley and FofS such as kayaking, mountain biking, and zip lining. As part of ‘Boot-Polish Kev’ Spinks having previously set out all testing the recce, the team found time to climb North Carolina’s requirements the teams got straight to it. Battling against the highest peak, Mount Mitchell. Although there are many well severe heat the teams managed to make great progress and trodden trails on the route, the climb wasn’t easy and once it was time for the equipment to be freighted, all surprisingly, considering the trail is in the heart of bear involved were happy with the end product. country, no bears were spotted! From Ashville the team moved on to Charlotte and continued with their task. The White Water Centre, situated 30 minutes from the city was the main and saw the team take part in many activities from paddle boarding and white water rafting to mountain biking and zip lining. Unfortunately during the mountain biking, SSgt Gaz Allan’s over confidence found him departing his bicycle and ending up in hospital with seven stitches in his hand!

Interoperability testing eventually starts

The AT Recce Team at the top of Mount Mitchell…

Unfortunately on this occasion we did not manage to get an American jump, much to our disappointment. The Squadron now look forward to the 82nd Airborne Div G6 visiting us here in Colchester. …then on to Mounain Biking!

88 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 299 SIGNAL SQUADRON (SC) BLETCHLEY

Foreword – by Capt Neil Taylor NHS Ambulance Military Co-Responding Scheme - by Capt Steve Spink Life continues at pace in the Squadron, with positive and progressive change taking the centre stage. I am pleased to Background: The RAF has an established Ambulance/Military announce on behalf of the Officer Commanding, Maj Sarah Co-Responding scheme with the South Central Ambulance Clifford, that the Squadron has “grown” a Troop, making Service (SCAS). In early 2013, members of 299 Sig Sqn (SC) supporting our OGD partners on distant shores a much more met with the SCAS Training Officer and, with the blessing of structured business. The remaining Squadron structure has the OC Sqn, the unit agreed to join the scheme. The pre- been bolstered to support the new Troop, so there is no requisites to join the scheme involve interviews, a DBS better time to look into PD206 and put your application in. (formerly CRB) check and participating in observer shifts, with the current scheme’s Rapid Response Vehicles (RRVs), before As I type, the majority of the Sqn is travelling to Blandford for conducting medical training with the NHS. Corps Week. We have fielded a full athletics squad and tug of war team – proof that it’s not all work! Post the competition, The scheme requires volunteers who are willing to work in all attention is focused on preparing for the upcoming Special their free time to; not only train and conduct shifts, but also Communications Assessment, the last hurdle before potential raise funds for the ‘League of Friends’ charity, who in turn Special Communications Operators are loaded onto the purchase the equipment the RRVs require. This includes both Special Communications Course in September. evening and weekend time, with a minimum of 4 shifts a month. It is not a short cut into driving on blue lights; Operations remain thick and fast, the pace of life even more typically, a volunteer will have to complete twelve months of so, but we have found time in the calendar for our 2 budding shifts, before being selected to attend a three-week REME chefs, Cpl Ronnie Routledge and Cpl Stu McCarville, to emergency response driving course. cook up a Families Day BBQ under the watchful eye of L/SSgt ‘Gordon Ramsey’ Paul Neve AGC(SPS). The last thing to do is Formation: The first eight selected candidates attended an welcome the newly qualified Special Communications NHS delivered First Person on the Scene (FPoS) course in Operators, post an arduous 7 month course – good luck! March 2013. The four-day course provides basic life-saving skills and other procedures for responders to assist NHS front Special Communications Course Graduation Evening line crews in emergency situations. On successful completion, - by Cpl Danny Younge three observing shifts were conducted with ambulance crews from Milton Keynes Ambulance Station, to gain experience 24 April saw the latest Special Communications Course (SCC and an insight into the crew's operating procedures. As a 01/13) Graduation, an annual event that is always eagerly fledgling scheme, Cpl Ben Gallagher was fast tracked onto a awaited, not just by the new trained SC Operators, but the blue light driving course to allow the scheme to go live. An Squadron as a whole. Before the formalities of the evening opportunity also arose to add two RAF Co-Responders from function, the honoured tradition of the ‘Paddy Green’ RAF Henlow to join our ranks, and with both being Memorial Football Match took place. The teams were Current experienced drivers, and mentor trained with a few years of Squadron versus Special Communications Course with the experience between them; this added capacity to the match umpired by the 2IC, Capt Neil Taylor. The match was Bletchley scheme. hotly contested for the first thirty minutes before the Squadron team were found lacking (due to the best players On 7 August 2013 the Bletchley RRV was signed for, and went being deployed), and an embarrassing 9-0 defeat ensued. operational. With Capt Steve Spink and Cpl Ben Gallagher attending four ‘999’ red calls. We are now six months into The Graduation evening is a black tie function, attended by all the scheme and NF806 (Vehicle’s callsign) has already available serving members of 299 Signal Squadron (SC), attended many red and amber ‘999’ calls, dealing with a members of the Foreign Commonwealth Office, Officers of variety of presenting complaints from traumatic injuries and the Metropolitan Police Force and any other outside agency anaphylactic shock to cardiac arrests. A second FPoS course that has assisted with training during the 7 month course. has qualified more volunteers conducting training and The newest SC Operators are as follows: Sgt Fitzsimmons, Sgt observer shifts. Capt Spink and Cpl Wilson have also qualified Pardoe, Sgt Taylor, Cpl Crozier, Cpl Whitmore, Cpl Marshall, as emergency response drivers. With time, the scheme Cpl Turner, LCpl Bugge, LCpl Butler and Sig Anthony should become more successful and provide additional emergency cover, where required, in the SCAS areas of During the evening the OC had the pleasure of welcoming the operations. newest SC Operators to the Squadron, before announcing that Cpl Jonny Whitmore had won the Top Student award. Future: The scheme details have been passed to other units After receiving the Royal Signals Institute Coin in recognition within the SCAS region and, with time, they may become of the accolade, Cpl Whitmore showcased a mix of charisma, sufficiently trained and manned to assist in covering their humour and confidence in delivering an amusing acceptance respective areas. 251 Signal Squadron, 10 Signal Regiment are speech: all aforementioned traits will see him in good stead in the developing stages of this process, with WO2 (SSM) for his SC career. Further speeches were provided by the Watts laying the foundation before his retirement from the Master Skinner, Mrs Dudley Buchanan, of the Worshipful military. Not only is it a chance for individuals to learn life Company of Skinners, before the conclusion by a senior skills and gain medical experience, but it’s also an opportunity member of the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, who to help the local community and support the NHS. Other reiterated the importance of our work. A fantastic function schemes exist in the country, you could contact your regional enjoyed by all, with the celebrations continuing well through ambulance service and find out if a military co-responding the evening! scheme is running and if not suggest one starts.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 89 OTHER UNITS

HEADQUARTERS BRITISH FORCES SOUTH ATLANTIC ISLANDS - J6

ACOS J6 Sqn Ldr John Coles communications were provided by the rising star of RADCON SO3 J6 Capt (Tfc) Clarke Fatchett Sig Ross McLelland manning the safety net, Coy Comd net YofS SSgt (YofS) Adam Philpotts and communication with aircraft overhead for CAS serials. Sig Ross McLelland was surprised that the concussion of mortar - by Sig McLelland blasts could be felt over a mile away inside a BV vehicle and learned potentially how important his role was as safety Introduction operator, as a lot can go very wrong with live firing exercises. Ex CAPE BAYONET 2/14 commenced during 23 – 28 Mar 14 British Forces South Atlantic Islands BFSAI (Falklands) is a st Joint and integrated command formed of personnel from all involving A Coy from 1 Bn The Mercians who were the three services charged with delivering a very real operational Roulement Infantry Company at that time. LCpl ‘Rosie’ Rose effect; the deterrence of any aggression towards the South and LCpl ‘Shacks’ Shekhar were deployed to the range tasked Atlantic Islands and reassurance to the local population. with setting up the safety operations room and establishing comms back to the JOC at MPC. Sig Ross McLelland was RADCON is the Tactical Communication section and are provided as the safety comms operator to work along side responsible for the provision of secure and insecure tactical Marvin Clarke, the Range Safety Officer (RSO). reach back communications enabling Command and Control to support HQBFSAI activities. These communications take LCpl Rose and LCpl Shekar manned the Ops room monitoring the form of rapidly deployable Immediate Response the HF safety net, VHF Coy Command net and the ICOM safety Operators and Crash-Out Detachments (COD). net whilst Sig McLelland was assigned the task of being the RSO’s safety operator inside the BV, providing a link back to Arrivals and Farewells the Ops room and a voice link to the fixed wing aircraft taking part in the exercise. The 3 operators felt they had done a Welcome to Capt ‘Stu’ Bailes who has recently commissioned good job managing and maintaining the nets during the and taken over from Capt Clarke Fatchett as SO3 J6. Capt exercise and were buoyed on when the YofS informed them Clarke Fatchett moves on to pastures new in 30 SigRegt. that this was the first time he was able to speak to all call Good luck! signs on the HF net during an exercise at Onion Range and asked them to “keep up the good work”. Recreational Activities Ex JOINT GUARDIAN1/14 is a biannual exercise designed to RADCON arranged a visit to the memorial at Pleasant Peak test BFSAI’s capability to deal with a major threat and/or (most misleading name in the Falklands!) on 8 Mar 14 for the incident. On 16 Apr 14, LCpl ‘Davo’ Davison and LCpl Shekar staff visitors from 2 Signal Regiment, York. Maj Mark Barratt in COD1 and LCpl ‘Robbo’ Robertson and LCpl ‘AJ’ Arjun in and Capt (TOT) John Ford arrived for a recce in the islands COD2 were crashed out to respond to a simulated mid-air where 246 (Gurkha) Sig Sqn is taking over the RADCON and collision between two aircraft. With trailers attached and part of ISS roles later in the year. A hill-walking activity was enough rations to sustain themselves for at least 3 days, they arranged to the Pleasant Peak memorial where the members journeyed at least 20 miles on non metalled roads in convoy of the 205 Sig Sqn lost their lives during the 1982 Falkland with elements of the Joint Service Police and the Theatre conflict. Reserve Platoons to two areas west of the Goose Green settlement where the aircraft were believed to have crashed. Later on both CODs arrived at their AOs an immediately established a link back to the JOC.

After some near mythical comms skills by both detachments, a link was indeed established, but data was becoming an increasingly difficult issue due to range. Cpl Sam Wignall and LCpl Rose were dispatched and established a rebro in order to provide a data comms link between the JOC and the CODs. With this link now established the decision was made to make VHF the primary voice net as the voice quality is better than its HF counter part. The detachments could now continue with their task.

At Crash Site ‘Alpha’, COD1 had to wait for the Location Capt Fatchett and LCpl Arjun cleaning the memorial at Mount Commander to determine the safety range as the aircraft Pleasant wreckage still had ‘live’ ordinance. After approximately 60 minutes the safety range was determined and the crew of Exercise/Activities COD1 were allowed to proceed with setting up their detachment. The recovery of the ‘downed’ pilot proceeded Ex SOUTHERN WARRIOR 2/14 was a live firing exercise that rather quickly and the Theatre Reserve set up a cordon to involved X Coy of the 1st Battalion the Royal Regiment of prevent sight seers photographing the crash site. After many Fusiliers during 2 – 7 Mar 14 at Onion range. Safety hours of real time and Ex play scenarios, the heavenly word of

90 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 “Endex” was passed amongst the teams at site ‘Alpha’. After commenced at 0730hrs when the Reserve sent sections out in all sections had closed down their living quarters, a convoy various directions looking for evidence of wreckage. The JOC proceeded to form to begin the journey back to MPC. More informed the fact that a dog walker had seen a notional no play messages followed. ‘body’ in a near by lake. The message was passed to the OC and one of the sections was dispatched to investigate which At crash site ‘Charlie’, COD2 started to set up their turned out to be that of the second pilot. Once given detachment whilst the Theatre Reserve Platoon proceeded to permission to tear down, COD 2 was given the orders to move set up their tents. Once the Det was set up, the detachment location. ‘No Play’ messages due to the difficult and crew arranged radio shifts. Little had happened throughout challenging conditions. Reserve personnel began making the night as the Reserve Platoon waited until morning to their way back to MPC where they were greeted by a late begin their search for the downed aircraft. Activity dinner of two humongous steaks each.

1st NATO SIGNAL BATTALION

CO Lt Col Hunke (DEU) Goodbyes. Firstly, the Battalion offers a Laurel, and Hardy RSM CWO Sully (CAN) handshake to our new Company Sergeant Major (CSM) WO2 ‘Gez’ Tierney who joins us from BATUS, Canada. He will hope 1st NATO Signal Battalion (1NSB) provides Deployable CIS to fill the hole left by outgoing CSM WO2 Bri Mclean who has support to the NATO Response Forces and participates in finally fled the nest over the water to his native Northern nearly all NATO exercises. On top of that, 1NSB continues to Ireland. As ever, the Company commander instructed the provide manpower to operations in Afghanistan and on boys to put WO2 Tierney ‘In the Bath’ (as he likes to put it) Operation ACTIVE FENCE, providing CIS Support to German and no doubt his learning curve of NATO life so far will have Patriot Batteries along the Turkish – Syrian border. Both been as steep as ever. operations are expected to continue after the draw down from Op HERRICK. The Battalion’s present strength is 470, 20 Also welcomed with open arms is Maj Bob Pye who, at long percent British and the remainder from 9 other nations. last, has filled the long overdue post of Battalion Deputy Commander. Finally a Brit back up on the command corridor. The Battalion has 6 Deployable Communications Modules (Squadron equivalent), comprising of three German, one Touching down with legs running is SSgt (YofS) Neil Donaghy Danish, one Croatian and last but not least DCM D which is coming in from 2 Signal Regiment, replacing WO2 (YofS) Bri commonly known as 628 Signal Troop and is 100% British Rawlings who will not only be leaving the Unit and the manned. We also have 24 available slots for the British (18 of service, but will also be leaving behind a legacy of bad jokes which are already manned) spread throughout Battalion HQ and controversial banter. We wish him the absolute best. and Maintenance and Support Company (M&S Coy). The Battalion was glad to welcome the new Deputy Commander We would like to bid our farewells to Sgt ‘SAC Si’ Goddard Maj Bob Pye, who also doubles up as the Senior National who has been turned by the dark side and has transferred to Representative for the British contingent. the RAF and LCpl Jimmy ‘Cup Of Tea’ Campbell who is leaving the service to fulfil his dream as a Corgi registered plumber. As if these goodbyes were not enough, the Battalion is also losing two fine specimens of Corps Technicians. SSgt (FofS) Brett Doyle and Sgt Andy Wedge have been turned by the dark side and will return to work in 2014 as that illusive breed of “NATO Civilian”.

Full Throttle – by Sgt Hill

Ex COBALT CLOUD 14 is the Battalion’s annual beat up exercise and sees all its Deployable Communication Modules (DCMs) gather in Wesel for three hard weeks of Inter- operability testing of all its communication assets, team building events, cross training and a bit of fun.

The 1 NSB Structure

MAINTENANCE & SUPPORT COMPANY

OC Comdt H Hollebosch (BEL) CSM WO2 (CSM) G Tierney

Welcome and Farewell – by Sgt Hill

The Battalion is now well into 2014 with another full and a busy calendar. We are saying a number of Hello’s and Cpl Morrison happy to help a damsel in distress

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 91 As part and tradition of the COBALT CLOUD exercises, one day is always set aside for a spot of ‘friendly competition’ between our international colleagues. This year saw small teams of mixed nationalities competing for first place, being put through their paces on a ‘round-robin’ style day of a mixture of tasks both physical and mental. I even heard that a few people had taken the CO’s name in order to brand the event “The ‘Hunke’ Games” (Get it!).

From lorry pulls to a NATO History quiz and from the assault course to playing hoopla in the dark wearing Night Vision Goggles, fun was definitely had by everyone and the day ended with a very sociable BBQ.

Spotting a gap in the rainy weather, Maintenance and Support Company found the time to play with its latest Sgt Hill with the HF Presentation deployable toy, the Mobile HF det. Attending a short course generously provided by a specialist civilian team from Kabul Lisbon. An elite team of 3 led by Sgt Bobby Hill finally had who found the time to visit Wesel, a selection of Battalion their arm twisted to spend a week in the Portuguese sun and personnel were put through their paces both in the classroom overall the training went down with huge success with JFC and outside with the masts and hammers. Lisbon receiving their own first TLK later in the year. (Of course, we will need to pop back over there to check that they are confident with the kit and that it is not over-heating in the sun!).

The rest of year looks busy for the Battalion, with its ongoing commitment to Active Fence Turkey, various deployments in ISAF and its continued support to NATO REACTION FORCE (NRF) commitments. Current and planned Exercises will ensure that all our assets are readily deployable and that skill fade does not creep in.

So may we finish off with the Commanding Officer's newly adopted motto for the Battalion.... “We Go! We Stay! We Win!”.

DEPLOYED COMMUNICATIONS MODULE D (628 SIGNAL TROOP)

OC Capt E.A. Moore SSgt SSgt P Grills

Who We Are

Known in NATO as DCM D 1 NSB, the Troop of 56 Brits is based in Elmpt Station, Germany but due to move the UK in 2015.

What We Do

As part of the NATO CIS Group, we deploy under the command of NATO to provide secure, robust satellite communications and its associated information systems support for a deployed NATO Headquarters. Aside from that, we have some enduring commitments to the Kandahar Signal Sgt Catt putting a pizza order in Support Group and Operation Active Fence Turkey; countering the threat of cross border incursions from Syria. Despite the comical clashes of international voice procedure Similarly we have been busy providing support and training to over the net, I beg to differ with anyone who wasn’t our Eastern European counterparts in a multitude of impressed to find that we could actually establish comms with multinational exercises. Brunssum just by connecting the HF radio to the perimeter fence! Following a rehearsal with Maj Gen Franz, the Overall we are prepared to deploy to any NATO or Partners Battalion’s HF capability was then demonstrated alongside for Peace country to assist as required by NATO. several other assets to an audience of over 100 NATO Staff Officers during a presentation at Joint Forces Command (JFC) The DCM has had its fair share of arrivals and departures: Brunssum. We look onwards now to testing the systems Welcomes – Sgt Dunn, Cpl MacDonald, Cpl Qasavakatini, Cpl capabilities in its full operational role on our next NATO Newton, Cpl Banthar Magar, LCpl Holmes, LCpl Flintoff, LCpl exercise. Harkness, LCpl Hurlock, LCpl Shrestha, LCpl Tullett, LCpl Tape and Miss Jess Flemming. Farewells - SSgt Nick Trethewey, Every now and then comes a tasking order that not even Sgt Dave Langley, LCpl James Clarke, Sig ‘Mac’ MacLaughlin, Ebenezer Scrooge could grumble at, and this time, M&S Coy’s Cpl ‘Wrong Fill’ Rigby AGC SPS, LCpl Tom Gill, Sig Dan ‘the SATCOM section were tasked with providing a Theatre Liaison bicycle dealer’ Marshall and LCpl ‘J’ Nielan. Kit (TLK) training programme for NATO STRIKE FORCE in

92 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Winners of the German Army Reserves Shooting Competition News To and From the Frontlines – by SSgt ‘Paddy’ Grills –by LCpl Tullet Late last year we were putting the finishing touches to our Shortly before our latest deployment to Afghanistan, 4 deployment preparations, in readiness for our deployment to members of the DCM travelled to Emmerich, Germany to take Afghanistan and Turkey. The final phase of preparation was part in the local Reservist Shooting Competition. The team to Pirbright and Ash Ranges for 2 weeks of live firing and included SSgt ‘Paddy’ Grills, Sgt Akash Sunuwar, Cpl Martyn marksmanship training, as well as the final elements of our Nunns and Sig Tom Robinson. Participants had the chance of mandated MATTs. We had the pleasure of welcoming 5 trying various weapons from other NATO members, such as German augments from DCM B, under OberLeutnant the MG3, HK G3, and the Estonian IMI Galil. Our team took (Lieutenant) Achterkamp. It was imperative that they learn the challenge in its stride displaying some good the British TTPs and weapon systems; which they duly did and marksmanship, which culminated in them being awarded the enjoyed. The range packages were put together on the whole Winners’ Sword and an invitation to shoot again in 2015. by Cpl Alex Atkinson. Having the German soldiers with us provided the perfect opportunity for the DCM to go back to basics in our weapon handling. This in turn helped to get rid of any bad habits or refresh on any forgotten skills. The work of Sgt Rich Beasley, Sgt Chau Gurung, Cpl Atkinson and SSgt Grills certainly paid off as all British members passed all weapon assessments with near to, or maximum scores, as well as all 5 of our Deutsches Kameraden qualifying as marksman.

Sig Tom Robinson being coached on the by a German Fallschirmjager

British and German troops training together

The bulk of DCM D deployed to Afghanistan as Kandahar Signals Support Group, while Cpl Martyn Nunns and Sig Chris Whitehouse deployed to Turkey on Active Fence. Leaving what little we had left of the Troop under the capable hands of SSgt Carl ‘Dinger’ Bell AGC (SPS) and SSgt Ian Shaw REME; over-watched by WO2 (FofS) ‘Pat’ Paterson.

Upon deploying to our Operational Base Location in Kandahar, we conducted the HO/TO from DCM E, our Danish counterparts.

Sgt Akash Sunuwar recieves instruction on the MG3 from a German Weapons instructor

Sgt Sunuwar, SSgt Grills, Sig Robinson and Cpl Nunns Cpl Hynes and Kev Fawcett on the cable pull

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 93 The Line Section under Sgt Beasley and Cpl Paul Heeney had and their respective subsidiaries. As well as the constant flow a very hectic deployment, with the new Headquarters build, of RAF/Task Force/US assets, all requiring their technical combined with a multitude of repair and or replace projects. expertise throughout. This involved laying dozens of kilometres of new fibre (assisted by as many volunteers as they could muster), not Cpl Hynes also took the lead on the organisation and running only in flooded tunnel systems but saw the Section having to of several charity events for MacMillan Cancer Support. We run the gauntlet with a steady flow of US armoured vehicles took part in a static cycle equal to the distance of Lands End that think nothing of running equipment over! to John O’Groats. Each member of KAFSSG, military and civilian, doing their part by cycling between 1 and 3 hours At every available opportunity Cpl ‘The Toe’ Heeney gave up each. Cpl Hynes also organised the Kandahar 5km Road Race his time to be our resident Chef for all things barbeque-able, with all proceeds going to MacMillan. In support of these using his old man leather gloves; which he eventually buried efforts, other members of KAFSSG gave up their time to assist in KAF. In future, during a ‘Time Team’ style dig of Kandahar Cpl Hynes, most notably Sgt Alex Atkinson who organised a in 1000 years time, I have no doubt at all that those gloves will weekly quiz night with the proceeds at the end of the still be there, dripping with grease and charred meat remains. deployment being added to the combined total for MacMillan. The winners of the quiz, despite an absolutely blatant attempt to cheat every single week by Tech Support (allegedly), were Cpl ‘Boufant’ Beavens’ team (who didn’t cheat). Altogether Cpl Hynes raised well in excess of $4000. A fantastic effort, I’m sure you will agree.

Sgt Richie Beasley, Cpl Frank Hynes and the OC in the The Quiz Winners Rogues Gallery: Robert Niesi, Nige Puttock, background trying to unglue his ever present mobile phone Cpl Beaven, Cpl Hillyard from his ear Cpl Victor Sambou took the lead of the BME/PABX section, The lone soldier, Cpl Will Hillyard, deployed to be the sole along with Cpl Bhai Rai, Cpl Austin Beaven (It’s all about the military member of the SysAdmin team in KAFSSGs’ deepest bouf Sir, all about the bouf), Sig Pete Bradley and darkest cellar. Cpl Hillyard was the archetypal invisible man, Hauptfeldwebel Andre Kiessling. Again, a very busy section only surfacing for the Monday evening quiz sessions. That throughout with their continued assistance to COMKAF and said he also had a very busy, productive tour. Impressing his Kandahar Airfield civilian counterparts and manager, definitely a sound ambassador for the Corps.

Cpl Will Hillyard on one of his rare trips into sunshine doing his 2 hours for MacMillan Cpl Vic Sambou and Sig Pete Bradley looking remarkably high spirited, despite being on Guardian Angel at 5 in the morning Technical Support was provided by Hauptfeldwebel Jay Jachmanovszki, Cpl Frank Hynes, under the watchful supervision of Sgt Simon Vickers (when he could be prised SatCom section certainly had a challenging tour out of the away from online “dating” sites) who were later joined by whole KSSG as it was their task with maintaining the existing Stabsfeldwebel Michael Reimann. The largest task for Tech Sat Links. The section was initially led by Sgt Will Wilkes with Supt on the deployment was the move of the COMKAF Cpl ‘Gaz’ Tweddle, Stabsgefreiter Kino Eihausen, Sgt Neil Headquarters into the new, purpose built HQ building. This Gritt, and Sgt Alex Atkinson. The lead was rotated involved the relocation and maintenance of each Staff cell throughout the tour due to various family emergencies, and

94 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Sgts Gritt and Atkinson were rotated through Deployable CIS WO2 Grills where they held I/C positions of the Combat Support Teams. Sgt Gurung Both SatCom and CSTs’ were supervised by SSgt Steve ‘The Cpl Hynes man who collects eyeballs’ Hudspeth. Also visiting Kandahar SSG was the General Manager of the Under Sgt Akash Sunuwar, the Service desk consisted of LCpl NATO Communications and Information Agency, MGen (Retd) James Clarke, LCpls Lewis Joseph and Sig Tom Robinson. Gijbers. During his visit he presented a Commendation Coin They served at the forefront of all things Staff related within to Sgt Sunuwar, in recognition of his sections hard work. COMKAF HQ. They had to deal with all maintenance and service requests in an extremely busy HQ day in, day out. The whole of Kandahar SSG would have been a massive amount worse off, if it wasn’t for Sgt Chau Gurung. His work Sig ‘Sproggo Robbo’ Robinson organised a very successful St behind the scenes, with all the civilian agencies and the Georges Day celebration. This included the story of St George various military departments around the whole of the and the Dragon; traditional English parlour games, followed Kandahar Airfield, definitely made our lives so much easier. by a hot buffet. Despite the lack of beer, it was very enjoyable afternoon all round. At the end of the tour, in recognition for their outstanding work, Sgt Sunuwar, LCpl Clarke and Sig Robinson received COMKAF Commendations, which no doubt will be remembered in the bar at our first Troop function upon our return home.

The OC – Maj Elliot Moore

OC Maj Elliot Moore and the CIS Supervisor WO2 Adam Stares took the lead of a very busy KSSG. They were not only Sgt Chau Gurung kept busy in Kandahar and Airfix, but on several occasions made visits to Kabul, the Belgian NSE, and the Dutch NSE, to name but a few. Despite this, they still managed to keep up All the while, as we were gallivanting around Kandahar, back with their cycling proficiency; in Elmpt 3 of the wives stepped forward and volunteered to take the lead with organising our Welcome Home function. They were Mrs Gritt, Mrs Beasley and Mrs Heeney. Despite coming up against nearly every obstacle that they could encounter, they still managed to arrange an absolutely fantastic function for us to come home to. Thank you all very much for everything you achieved while we were away.

The Supe - WO2 Adam Stares

The Group had visits from our Commander, Maj Gen Franz DEU AF who presented The Commander’s Commendations 628 Signal Troop – Heroes and Villains and coins to:

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 95 38ishB (Ir ) rigade Signal Troop LISBURN

OC Capt (TOT) Gordon Tibbetts Sgt Carl Stephenson Memorial on Slieve Donard YofS WO2 (YofS) Stevie Johnston – by Sgt ‘Ski’ Milevsky FofS A/WO2 (FofS) Emily Potter Sgt Carl Stephenson, 29, formerly of 8 Infantry Brigade Troop Update – by WO2 (YofS) Stevie Johnston Headquarters and Signal Squadron (218) died suddenly whilst conducting mountain leader training. His body was The Troop has had an exceptionally busy period supporting discovered at the peak of Slieve Donard on 6 Apr 2006 having the Brigade as it transitions to adopt an Adaptive Force (AF) been fatally struck by lightning. A plaque was erected by footing; this has involved major unit moves in and out of the 38(Irish) Brigade Signals Troop in 2008 at the summit of the provincial AOR. The Troop has also seen its fair share of staff churn, saying farewell to LCpl Andy Anderson who has left the Army, Cpl ‘DJ’ Hamilton assigned to 22SR, Cpl ‘Linc’ Sims leaving us on promotion also to 22SR, Cpl Patrick Crosbourne on transfer to QARANC and Sgt ‘Ski’ Milevsky who is off to the Falklands very soon. The new Yeoman of Signals arrived just before Christmas, WO2 (YofS) Stevie Johnston, on promotion from CAST (N), Cpl Frankie Lyness arrives fresh from his Class 1 CS Eng course, Cpl Linda Gough on promotion, LCpl Greg Smith from 22SR and LCpl Leigh Powney from NI Ops Group.

The Troop is distilled from a rich and varied lineage harking back to Op BANNER; 15SR pre 2007, 10SR post Op BANNER and since the restructure in 2010 it has been an independent Signal Troop with its own mission agreed between Commander 38X and GOC Sp Comd. There is more change planned…

The Troop has been working hard to impress the new Summit Memorial of Sgt Carl Stephenson Commander and his Chief of Staff by streamlining our battle rhythm with the aim of increasing efficiency and better understanding the staff’s needs. This has seen us trying to get to know the staff better by fully integrating on Bde staff PT sessions, staff training serials and attending the plethora of Branch co-ord meetings. This has proven to be extremely valuable when it comes to involvement at the core of decision making, particularly in the early planning rounds to ensure ‘we’ can take on the AF role in our stride (or a running stumbling regain!) in 2015.

Arguably, the Bde Sig Tp is one of the most diverse assignments in mainstream signalling and as such somewhere that any R.SIGNALS NCO should come if they want to immerse themselves in a small close knit unit who are employed and wholly engaged in all aspects of signalling. The Troop’s most recent employment ranges from the expansion of the UK Coast Guard land based VHF radio safety network (involving all 3 trade branches working in concert to scope, plan and deliver a solution), the move of the Northern Ireland Operations Group which is essentially the planning and delivery of a national MACP control facility to entirely the other end of the spectrum with our Inst Tech and CS Eng running the training and equipment management of the JACAMAR network in province.

Adding the third dimension to our activities; the Troop has also taken part in police public order training in preparation for the marching season in Province. Make no mistake work in the soon to be named ‘606 Signals Troop’ will continue to be diverse and alongside our core functions, this Troop is a microcosm of the wider Corps, with a stalwart few who persistently ‘dig in’ to all things signalling regardless of our own individual specialisms. Labour of love, the troop restores the Memorial in the harsh conditions at altitude

96 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 mountain in Memorial. During recent adventurous training considerable distance. Sgt ‘Ski’ Milevsky came close to the Troop took the opportunity to polish and restore the becoming our first casualty. Whilst attempting to close with plaque which has endured harsh mountain conditions for the police lines to score some good hits on them, he was some years, to its former glory. “We will remember them”. knocked from his feet and sent rolling like tumble weed by the water cannon. To increase the tempo even further the The ‘Battle of Ballykinler’ - Public Order Training PSNI Directing Staff spiced things up with ‘Molotov Cocktails’ - by LCpl Chris Laidler and encouraged us to drive closer towards the lines. This was when Cpl ‘Frankie’ Lyness learned why the Directing Staff 38X Sig Tp all congregated at 0745 on 20 May 14 before were keen for us not to get too close to the police. The travelling to Ballykinler Training Centre (a journey of around ‘pretend’ batons weren’t quite as soft as they looked and he 45 minutes). However in our excitement at the day’s planned took a few swift cracks to his back-side and was sent packing. activity, it became apparent that many of us had forgotten some personal essentials such as MOD 90 ID cards! Essential The final whistle blew and end-ex was called. Massaging sore to ensure our authorised return onto camp! This was of shoulders from throwing in excess of a thousand rounds each course much to the dismay of the YofS who was keen to do we made our way back for lunch. The size and quality of PSNI battle with the PSNI at the earliest opportunity. packed lunches clearly being the reason that you don’t see many skinny police officers! We arrived (eventually) around 0900hrs and were met by members of the PSNI Directing Staff who informed us that Sport Relief 2014 Swimmathon - by Cpl Francis Lyness their admin was just as bad as our own. This left us with an hour to ‘hang around’, which we used to discuss the most As the most recent addition to the Troop I was given the effective public ‘disorder’ tactics we were hoping to employ. honour of organising a low level charity event. To maximise Following our safety briefing for the exercise we learned that participation and hopefully raise some funds at the same time not only would there be a dog unit deployed in the first phase I decided to strongly encourage as many of the Senior of the exercise, but when events escalated the PSNI would members of the Troop into swimming 5 kilometres for Sport have a water cannon to call upon. This created some tension Relief; which support youth sporting development initiatives in the group with LCpl Greg Smith panicking about the both locally and overseas. potential for collateral damage to his quiff! After a very long week of badgering the Troop at NAFFI We advanced from a mock football stadium and comfortably break, lunch and knock off parades I enlisted the support of began to verbally confront the police gathered at the end of WO2 (YofS) Stevie Johnston, Cpl Mike Kervell, Cpl ‘DJ’ the road. This then prompted the dog unit to be released to Hamilton and LCpl Chris Laidler. After the team was move us back. This resulted in more than a few cries of ‘RUN assembled I hit them with a daily training programme lasting AWAY’ as the dogs, Alsatians (Al Geht Yeez) were significantly three weeks. This included 6am and 3pm swims to ensure bigger and meaner than we had expected, though thankfully that all team members would complete the event. muzzled. Unfortunately (depends how you look at it!?!?) Cpl Hamilton Once the dogs had tired of terrifying us they were replaced by managed to escape all but one session because of persistent riot police carrying shields and the odd length of plastic piping moaning. In the absence of WO2 (YofS) Johnston the (in lieu of batons). We were granted permission to gather remaining members of the team agreed to give themselves rubber spent baton rounds from our ammo cache (wheelie the team name ‘Fat Fish’. Before the Yeoman found out I bins) and begin pelting the police line. Naturally we complied rushed off and registered the team, you can say he was less enthusiastically! This quickly and deliberately descended into than impressed when he found out!!! a running battle where the police would advance a short distance pushing us back, then regrouping and pushing again, The young and ‘trusty’ life guard Tracey helped Fat Fish during all the time under a hail of rubber baton rounds and verbal the team training sessions through her direct words of abuse. It was around this point we all noticed just how encouragement and supervision on behalf of the factually and geopolitically accurate Cpl Neil Rowan’s taunts Swimmathon event organiser Pauline. were. During the event it became apparent very quickly that LCpl The escalation in violence allowed the PSNI to call forth their Laidler was starting to struggle after 6 lengths, in a manner ‘Death Star’ weapon, the Water Cannon. This aside from not unlike an OAP non swimmer. Cpl Hamilton, Cpl Kervell being ominous was very effective at forcing us back a and WO2 Johnston completed their lengths comfortably making up for the time lost; which was a surprise when you consider WO2 Johnston and Cpl Kervells' physiques. I was

Cpl Frankie Lyness leads from the front, taking cover behind the smallest female member of DS he could find to hurl abuse and batons from Not so FAT, FAT FISH, no man left behind

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 97 sadly not to make it through unscathed, panicking Tracey After completion the Fat Fish team members were awarded slightly when I tried to pick up the pace and sputtered in the medals for completing the 5 kilometre swim. As a bonus WO2 deep end just like the scene from Jaws when someone is Johnston received a kiss from Pauline, followed by me making getting dragged under by the shark. After recovering at the her all wet (having just got out the pool). Fat Fish completed deep end very red faced while the audience’s faces wet with the Swimmathon in 2 hours, 11 minutes and 24 Seconds and tears of laughter, I still managed to finish a bit quicker than raised in excess of £100 for our chosen charity. LCpl Laidler.

BRUNEI SIGNAL TROOP

Brunei Signal Troop Study Week - by LCpl Sagar Gurung The third day of the study week kick started with command tasks, in which participants were divided into two groups. While the Residential Battalion was stood down for the Easter There were total four different stands, all were with different leave before deploying on Ex PACIFIC KHUKURI to New- scenarios. Sgt Pikendra and Sgt Judbir were the Directing Zealand, Brunei Signal Troop grabbed the opportunity to Staffs (DS) who constantly assessed the team leader and the organize a study week from the 1st to the 4th of April 2014. team members on the given task. On completion of each task The main aim of this study week was to give an opportunity we were debriefed by the DS followed by the Staff and the to the Junior NCOs to develop and broaden their military OC. After finishing the command task we quickly got changed knowledge as well as leadership and communication skills. It and headed towards Bukit Shah Bandar area for troop hiking. also encompassed a team bonding activity in a form of Bukit The BST had a company of a few members from TTB boat Teraja hiking and War Memorial visit at Labuan, Malaysia. section and QOGLR detachment for the final part of the study week – hiking and war memorial visit - exploring the natural The first two days of the study week was based on classroom beauties of the Bukit Teraja and strengthening inter- activities. Day one consisted of icebreaker to start-with, department bonding. All participants headed toward Maura followed by series of presentations on following topics: ferry terminal after descended from the hill to travel to defence writing, AGAI process, preparation for Managerial Labuan, Malaysia. checks, organising AT and expedition and essay writing techniques. The presentations were given by Tp OC, Capt On the fourth and final day, we headed towards Labuan War Shankar Gurung, SSgt Indra Bahadur Thapa and Sgt Sudesh Memorial where Cpl Suman gave a short briefing about the war memorial and the history of the war. The moment of visiting the cemetery was quiet emotional as some of the graves belonged to Gurkha and Royal Signals soldiers who died during the Borneo conflict. We grabbed a moment to get together and pay our respect to them as a group. After taking some pictures at the war memorial we made our way towards the ferry terminal and safely recovered back to the camp. The BST study week was officially concluded with OC’s debrief highlighting the aim, individual and team performance, and areas to improve.

The study week was indeed a success as we had a rare opportunity to learn new things as well as polishing rusty skills that would affect us directly or indirectly in our army career. It took us to a next level where we have to perform as a competent Junior NCO, supervise juniors and make ourselves efficient towards our seniors. Without a shadow of Gurung. Day two began with essay writing by the students doubt the team bonding amongst the Troop members is at its on a given topic followed by group discussion and pinnacle and we promise to keep it at its current state. We presentation in pairs for the rest of the day. Without a doubt look forward to next Troop Study Day in the near future. writing an essay and delivering a presentation was a nerve- racking experience for most of us. After an each presentation Jai BST, Jai QG SIGNALS! we were debriefed by OC and Tp Staff on various strong and weak points, and areas for improvement.

2327421 CQMS V. Plowman 2336787 Sig W.F. Howes 810792 Sig W.C Smith

98 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 The Army Women’s Football Team by Cpl Sarah Jaffe

The journey to Spain for the Army Women’s Football Team began with an early rise on 8 May, the players all eager to add to their 2014 victory in the Inter-Services. As they set off to compete in the Mallorca 5-a-side tournament spirits were high, only to be heightened by the sight of their competitors at the opening ceremony, with teams spanning from Italy, Norway, Luxembourg, Slovenia and beyond. The tournament kicked off on the first day with the majority of games being played. The Army as ever came prepared entering an A and B team, however were quick to discover that they faced some deceivingly stiff competition, keeping the coach, SSgt ‘Mags’ Mcateer (AAC) very busy. The A team was captained by SSgt Chrissie Wright (AGC, RMP), and despite valiant efforts from everyone goals were hard to secure. The B team, captained by LCpl Jess Treharne (RLC) put in some great performances, leaving them to rely on the results of a few games as to whether they were proceeding through to the Semi-Finals. Points were close, meaning the fate of the B team was not known until the Sunday.

Off the pitch the Army players were not slow to take advantage of what LCpl Amanda Turnbull, Sig Bex Wells, Cpl Sarah Jaffe Mallorca had to offer, relaxing at the beach, limbering up by the pool, and even testing the odd Jet-Ski. Sunday came around quickly and the A team played their last match of the group stages, easily securing a win. The stiff competition however made the success not enough to progress to the next stages, resulting in an over all 5th place, enabling the B Team to advance through and play Norway. Norway proved to be a strong side beating the Army and going on to win the tournament. Third place however was still up for grabs and team B went head to head against Luxembourg. Early on the Army went 1-0 down, though some close chances and quick passes kept morale high. Patience and perseverance paid off when Cpl Ed Taylor-Koff (RE) scored a blinding goal to equalize and put the pressure back on Luxembourg. Just before the final whistle blew, a hard tackle from Luxembourg resulted in a well timed penalty. A quick substitution and Sig Bex Wells (R SIGNALS) stepped up to take a successful penalty placing the B Team in an admirable overall 3rd place. All the players had put in an amazing effort and had deserved to let their hair down at the Pirate themed closing ceremony. In true British style, they showed off their dancing skills to the other teams from around the world, putting in a sterling performance of the Macarena, rounding off a very successful tournament with both teams producing a good performance and fantastic results.

The Army Women’s Football Team

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 99 EXERCISE SO cal rider 14 the red bull challenge - by Capt Harrison, 2 Signal Regiment

The last 2 weeks of May saw the 2 Sig Regt Adjutant, Capt Harrison let out of the office to travel with the Army Surf Team to California on a sports tour. The culmination of the tour was to compete in the Red Bull Rivals International Surf contest against the US Military West Coast Combined Services, for boards and bragging rights. While the team didn’t come home with the boards, they at least had something to brag about – a great tan!

With over 800 miles of coastline California is a Mecca for the world’s surfing community. The Southern California coastline is home to the USMC 1st Marine Expeditionary Force (1 MEF) located on Camp Pendleton; a 37 mile long costal base located between San Clemente and Ocean Side. This was a far cry from the grey skies and cold sea of the Yorkshire coastline. 1 MEF would play host to Ex SO CAL RIDER 14.

Having spent day 1 bedding in and finding our sea legs after the 11 hour flight, the team were taken to meet the Red Bull Event Organisers and learn about the Red Bull Rivals competition in which we were competing. It also gave us an opportunity to meet our opposing team. The West Coast Combined Services team had surfers from the Navy, Coastguard, Marines and Air-Force, the majority of whom seemed to originate from Hawaii. The team were up at 0430 most days to be in the water for 0530 to make the most of the conditions before the wind picked up. Surfing for up to 8 hours a day for 14 days took its toll on both mind and body, but with near perfect conditions for the first 10 days, and with the added pressure from our opposite numbers, everyone was keen to train for as long and as hard as possible.

One of the most popular breaks in California is Trestles. Out of bounds during the 1960s as part of the USMC real estate and home to President Nixon, surfers risked having their boards confiscated and being placed under arrest for surfing here. Now the various breaks that make up Trestles are teeming with people before the sun has even breached the horizon. To the south lies Old Mans’, a right and left A-Frame that peels for hundreds of meters and is popular with long-boarders. Further north lies Churches, so called thanks to the take off spot being directly in front of the large wooden cross that marks where a church used to be. This is a rocky right hand point break which is popular with all riders. Yet further north lie Uppers and Lowers. Lowers is an A-Frame that breaks with the mechanical consistency of a man made wave machine. Braking left and right in perfect section-less rides it is a dream wave for both regular and goofy foot riders alike. Lowers is easily one of the most competitive breaks in California, with as many as 40 people waiting for the peak from before dawn until well after dark. It is a real test of nerve and skill and many of our surfers showed great improvement from having surfed under that kind of pressure.

On days when the wind was too strong or conditions were unfavourable at Trestles, the team travelled north to Dana Point and surfed and break named Salt Creek. Dana Point was famous by the 1990s movie, Point Break and was about as popular as Gidget. It remains, however, unspoilt and when the wind was southerly it was sheltered enough to create some very challenging waves. With a broken sandbar, peaks would appear as if from nowhere and would create a very steep drop with fast lefts and rights, and creating exhilarating rides. In the afternoon as the tide pushed, these waves became very fast and very hollow beach breaks. With near vertical drops in only few feet of water it was a true test of nerve and skill but a worthwhile adrenaline rush should you survive the drop. There were many Trestles Barrel. broken boards and people but it was a good reminder of how physically demanding the sport can be.

100 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 EXERCISE SO cal rider 14 the red bull challenge - by Capt Harrison, 2 Signal Regiment

With training going well we took some time to challenge the Camp Pendleton Athletics Association at a game of touch rugby. Rugby is still a fledgling sport in the States though they have some good players and a real love of the game. While there were a few downfield passes and off the ball tackles, they have had some good training in matches against the Royal Marines and RMAS. The team were honoured to be invited to surf with the Wounded Warriors, an organisation set up to assist the sick and injured in their rehabilitation and recovery. This mobile team of both serving personnel and local volunteers meet every Thursday to run surfing, body boarding and body surfing coaching. There was a mixture of patients taking part, from those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder to double amputees stand up surfing on prosthetic limbs. All were happy to speak about their experiences and cited the Wounded Warriors as essential to their recovery as it does not just test the physical elements of their recovery but aids in the mental recovery too. The team shared some great waves and their love of surfing with some truly humbling individuals. This was a priceless experience and served to remind the team how lucky they were and focus on who they were representing.

On the Friday before the competition we met with our American counterparts for a Red Bull sponsored afternoon of fun. Both teams were collected by, of all things, a London bus plastered in Red Bull advertising, and driven to the Red Bull Wave House in San Diego for a final bit of PR. The media coverage for the event had been enormous. Websites such as Surfline.com and the San Diego Newspapers all ran stories on the event and some team members featuring on Fox 5 News. The final event was both teams trying their hand at the Red Bull wave machine. These jets of water create an over head barrel on which riders use a small skateboard deck to try and get as deep in the barrel as possible before inevitably being flipped into orbit and out of the tank. The British team were convinced this was a plan to injure us the day before the competition.

Competition day brought big crowds and better than expected swell conditions. Teams were split into two smaller teams of 5 with each team surfing 2 heats and a bodyboarding heat consisting of the remaining 2 from each team. Each team had a coach on the beach and one in the water with a radio to deliver instructions. Teams had 1 minute to paddle out with each heat lasting 12 minutes. Each rider needed to score with their highest score adding to the team’s total. Tactics were as key as wave selection, with 4, 2 minute ‘timeouts’ allowed per team in the event of a lull in the swell. The judging panel comprised of some high profile surfers including Red Bull Rider Kolohe Andio, a San Clemente local, who recently came second in the Red Bull Pro in Brazil.

The score remained close throughout the competition with members of the team demonstrating some stylish cross stepping and some aggressive back side hacks bumping up the scores. Sadly as the heats drew on, the Americans racked up some high scores with some impressive waves, adding 10 points to their total on one wave. With a final score of 95 points to 81 our American counterparts won the day. They set the bar high and gave the team a standard to aspire to before next year's event. Following the prize giving both teams enjoyed a final surf before having a BBQ on the beach to celebrate the event and Memorial weekend.

The sports tour was a huge success for all those involved and everyone benefited from surfing some of the worlds' best waves. If you are interested in learning to surf or getting involved with Army surfing please contact Capt Harrison, Adjutant 2 Signal Regiment or visit the Army Surfing home page on the Defence Intranet (search Army Surfing). The US team with their new surfboards.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 101 RSA Reunion Weekend 21/22 June 2014

The 2014 Royal Signals Association Reunion was blessed with sunshine for the whole weekend. In the beautiful weather Blandford Camp looked at its brightest and welcomed in the region of 650 Association members and their guests. Amongst this number we were very pleased to see six important attendees from the Royal Hospital Chelsea who were, I understand, fittingly hosted by members of the Sgts’ Mess.

For the second year, the HQ Royal Signals organizing team was lead by Maj (Retd) Mark Tivey, Asst Regt Sec. Our team was given unstinting help from large parts of Blandford Garrison and we would not be able to achieve very much without their support and enthusiasm. As every year, our thanks are extended to everyone who helped towards the delivery of the weekend. The camp site looked wonderful. This year, for the first time, we were very pleased to be able to host a concert in the cinema by the RSA Pipes & Drums Assn.

As we hoped last year, we were able enlarge the number of static displays of equipment and soldiers from current units. For this invaluable support we are very much in the debt of all those currently serving who took the time to come and enlighten us. Although it must be said that the basics seem, to me at least, to be recognisable from days of yore! We also are in the debt of The Vintage Vehicle display (Mr Dave Lancaster), the Christchurch Cruisers Motorcycle Group (Mr Terry Inman), Warsaw Pact Radio Equipment (Mr Tony Helm), and Royal Signals Amateur Radio Society RSARS (Mr Jim Heck) who all provided displays. I am very grateful for the outstanding support from the reception team (supplied by 11 SR) who volunteered to give up their weekend to help.

As we have come to expect, the Princes Royal Day Parade (PRD) on Hawke Square was a great display of drill and it was good to see that virtually everyone from 11 (Royal School of Signals) Signal Regiment on parade managed to withstand the extreme heat. The inspecting officer was Lt Gen N A W Pope CBE, The Master of Signals.

Following on from the parade, the Corps RSM, WO1 Rob Luke, conducted the Standard Bearers’ Preliminary Competition. This year five of the competitors went forward into the final. These were: Graham Christian (Liverpool Branch), Norman Pearce (West London), Bill McNamara (Glasgow), Keith

102 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 RSA Reunion Weekend 21/22 June 2014

Bates (Rotherham) and Bill May (Edinburgh). The competition was overseen by the CRSM assisted by WO1 (GSM) Matt Darby, WO1 (RSM) Chris Hoggard, Mr Barry Moody from Scarborough Branch and Mr John Mumford from Reading Branch. The final took place as part of the afternoon programme of events on the square. The Master of Signals presented the prizes to: 3rd - Bill McNamara, 2nd - Bill May and 1st – Norman Pearce. Thank you to all the Branch Standard Bearers who took part in the competition this year. As agreed last year, each competitor was given a briefing on their score in the competition to inform their drill before their preparation for next year’s competition.

The afternoon programme began at 1500hrs and featured music provided by bands of the Royal Corps of Signals and the Corps Pipes and Drums both individually and massed. The Signals Motorcycle Display Team ‘The White Helmets’ gave a virtuoso performance (as we have come to expect) and caused some younger members of the audience to jump very loudly when they lit the straw prior to their finale! The afternoon ended with The Sunset Retreat Ceremony which as always was a fitting end to the official displays.

During the evening, many of us gathered in the 11 (RSS) Sig Regt WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess (courtesy of the Presiding Member WO1 (RSM) Chris Hoggard) to enjoy a curry supper, libations and catching up with old friends. We are very grateful to all Mess Members and Staff for hosting this very important part of the weekend.

On Sunday morning at 1030 hrs we met on Hawke Square for the Drumhead Service. The RSA Honorary Chaplain, the Rev Peter Clemett, the Rev Frances Canham and The Padre of 11 (RSS) Sig Regt, the Rev Stephen Lodwick, conducted the service. Mr Tony Hull, from Beverley Ex-Boys Assn, turned the page of the Memorial Book. The collection during the service raised £447.73 for the RSBF.

Finally, following the service, members were invited by the Corps RSM to form up for the march past on the square. The contingent was made up of: RSA Standard Bearers; Beverley Ex-Boys Assn, Colonels Commandant, led by the Chairman RSA; Retired Officers; In-Pensioners from the Royal Hospital Chelsea; RSA Members and EPV users at the rear. The Master of Signals took the salute, thus ending the 2014 RSA Reunion.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 103 Patron: HRH The Princess Royal President: The Master of Signals Chairman: Brig DA Hargreaves Welfare Secretary Association Office Tel (mil) (9)4371 2089 RHQ Royal Signals Tel (civ) 01258 48 2089 Blandford Camp Email: [email protected] Col (Retd) Terry Canham Mrs Linda Sizeland Blandford Forum Tel: 01258 482081 Tel: 01258 482089 Dorset Membership Secretary DT11 8RH Tel (mil) (9)4371 2090 www.royalsignlalsassociation.co.uk Tel (civ) 01258 482090 Email: [email protected] General Secretary and Treasurer: Col (Retd) T Canham Assistant General Secretary: Maj (Retd) M Tivey Welfare Secretary: Mrs L Sizeland Maj (Retd) Mark Tivey Membership Secretary: Mrs C Addison Mrs Caroline Addison Tel: 01258 482082 Tel: 01258 482090

The 2014 Reunion took place at Blandford over the weekend of 21/22 June. The report can be found in this edition of The Wire and on the RSA website. Looking ahead, the Opening of the Field of Remembrance will take place at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 6 November and Parade on Sunday 9 November. If any Association member would like a chance to attend either, please get in touch with me, on [email protected]

New Life Members. A warm welcome to the following members, enrolled since the last issue of The Wire;

Cpl John Aldridge 1966-89 Cpl Bruce Noble 1997-12 SSgt Stephen Anderson 1988-12 Sgt Peter Old 1975-89 SSgt Ian Blacklock 1991-13 Cpl Layla Patton 1990-14 LCpl Kris Blundell 1996-07 Sgt David Peper 1971-86 LCpl Gareth Botman 2000-04 Cpl Linda Pepper 1975-99 LCpl Mark Bougourd 1979-88 Cpl William Porter 1985-98 Sig Keith Boynton 1963-70 Sgt Mick Raine 1990-14 SSgt Kevin Brack 1985-13 Cpl Phil Rainer 1964-73 Sgt Ian Branes 1976-90 LCpl Dominic Rowe 1991-99 Sgt Mark Carlisle 1991-13 Sig Jonathan Sampson 2014-date Sig Victor Cass 1957-59 WO2 Mark Sherwood 1981-05 Cpl Chris Clarke 1988-96 Sig Malcolm Sidebottom 1964-67 WO2 Michael Constable 1991-date Sig Chris Smart 1982-88 Sgt Nigel Cross 2000-09 Sig Paul Starr 1979-83 Sgt Kevin Dale 1976-88 Sgt Derrick Steed 1967-79 WO2 Paul Davis 1981-14 Cpl Jim Stowers 1951-63 LCpl Jason Durkin 1988-96 LCpl Elaine Strefford 1973-77 Cpl Teresa Earle 1969-72 LCpl Harry Strong 1959-61 LCpl Mark Edwards 1983-87 Sig Gareth Thomas-Jones 1996-98 Sgt Jackie Gibbons 1983-93 Cpl Eric Turner 1996-75 Cpl David Hay 1975-93 LCpl Mark Underhill 2004-10 LCpl Mary Hillcoat 1943-46 Cpl Geoffrey Underwood 1970-93 LCpl Brian Hillson 1991-00 LCpl Stephen Vose 1997-date LCpl John Hooton 1957-68 Sgt Paul Watts 1978-93 Sig David Jennings 1982-97 LCpl Thomas Weaver 1980-88 Sig Derek Johnston 1988-94 Cpl Graeme Whitehead 1981-91 Sig Alexander Kelley 2004-05 LCpl Dawn Williams 1989-95 Cpl David Laing 1998-date SSgt Keith Williams 1985-98 Sig Victoria Lewis 1997-01 Sgt William Wishart 1992-06 SSgt R Lodge 2003-08 Cpl Adrian Woollon 1989-96 Sgt Jeffrey Masters 1981-00 Sig Christian Wrightson 1990-00 Sig Iain McCormack 1983-85 SSgt Stephen Wylie 1992-date LCpl Michele Mitchell 1992-97 Sgt George Young 1969-92 Cpl Godfrey Mumford 1964-77 Cpl Leigh Young 1996-08 Sgt Brett Myerscough 1989-12

104 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 We are now looking forward to our next event which will be our Supper Dance on Saturday 1 November which this year CARDIFF BRANCH will be at the Ilford Golf Club where we had our Annual Dinner last year.

We always welcome new members so if you are an ex or President Jim Lister serving signaller living in east London, south and east Essex Chairman Selwyn Williams area and would like to join us then why not come along to Vice Chairman Mike Peterson one of our meetings which are held in the Army Reserve Secretary Bill Davies Centre, Gordon Road, Ilford at 7:30pm on the 4th Thursday of Treasurer Alan Cole each month (except December). Email: alanj.turner@ ntlworld.com for more details. The year began with the Branch Annual General Meeting held in January at the Earl Haigh Club, Whitchurch, Cardiff. The Branch Officers from 2013 were elected en-bloc; meaning Chairman Selwyn Williams and Secretary Bill Davies would continue to lead the Branch with Alan Cole (Treasurer), Gordon Baker (Branch Visitor), Darren Perkins (Branch Web Manager) and Esme Aviet (Standard Bearer) continuing in their roles.

The Branch was represented at the AGM of the RSA by the Chairman, Selwyn Williams and Secretary, Bill Davies.

At our May Branch meeting we welcomed members of the West Wales Branch of the RSA. Our guest speaker was Dan Paterson, who is a war artist. Dan has spent some time in Afghanistan with the Queen’s Dragoon Guards, producing a variety of paintings and drawings. We were able to gain an insight into life at the sharp end through seeing his work. A The East London Branch AGM - 24 April, 2014 well-stocked buffet rounded off an enjoyable evening. We hope to organise a few more social events over the summer and in November we will be holding our annual dinner. EDINBURGH BRANCH On the membership front we welcomed John Donne and Geoffrey Palmer to the Branch.

Our monthly meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the President Mr Ian Green month at the Earl Haigh Club, Whitchurch, Cardiff. Chairman Mr Jeff Jephcote Secretary Maj Helen Jephcote Treasurer Mrs Babs Gowan EAST LONDON BRANCH The Edinburgh Branch decided to change the format of our monthly meeting; to be one month a formal meeting and the next being a social/quiz night. These have been extremely successful with members who have been arranging various Chairman Neill Keen types of quizzes; plus the fact that spouses are welcome to Secretary Alan Turner attend. To find out more information and which month is a meeting or a social visit our site on the RSA webpages. The We held our Branch AGM in April and there were no changes Branch continues to strive to organise functions for our in the line-up of Committee who were all voted back into members and families and new ideas are always welcome. office. Reports were given by all the committee on the Some of the events have passed and some are still to come! previous year including Chairman, Neill Keen, who reflected, that at the time he had felt like David Moyes taking over from Sir Alec Fergusson when he took over the Chairmanship from Paul Burton and he noted that he had at least lasted longer in the position. After the formal meeting was concluded, everybody was gathered together, as is our custom, for the group photo and with our usual photographer, Brian Streetly being unavailable, both our Chairman, Neill Keen and Vice Chairman, Reggie Cullumbine both setting the timers of their cameras to ensure that we did capture all attending. After the photo everybody then dug into the buffet meal organised by Secretary, Alan Turner and relaxed with a few drinks and much socialising before the end of the evening.

Paul Burton is coordinating the plans for our joint service for the laying up of our old Standard and dedication of the new Standard service in St Mary’s Church, Wanstead on Wednesday 8 April, 2015. Paul has just announced that a glass and wood case to frame the Standard and pin it to the wall of the church is now being constructed by a local firm. Afternoon tea, al fresco

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 105 June: Some of our Branch members attended this year's RSA The 2 members who were to received their well deserved and reunion down at Blandford. Yet again a most enjoyable and well merited 50 Year Badge and certificate were Andy Riddell successful weekend. A big “thank you”, goes to all who (our current President and ex Vice Chairman) and David Geere organised this year's event. It was a very close competition ( a previous Vice Chairman and Chairman). for the standard bearers; our congratulations go out to all the entrants and especially to our own Branch Standard bearer It was a most enjoyable and well attended evening. For so Bill May who came second in the competition. many members to attend showed just how much our two recipients justifiably deserved their awards. July: A sightseeing tour was organised on The Royal Yacht Britannia, which is berthed in Leith Docks Edinburgh. This was Planning now is moving towards the annual dinner and dance. followed by afternoon tea at the Edinburgh Botanical Members chose to pick an earlier date than in previous years; Gardens. It was a great day out and thoroughly enjoyable by the 22nd of November 2014. It will also be a new location. those attending. Longcliffe Golf Club have offered excellent facilities, and we Upcoming Events: have opted to take advantage of this. Tickets are available via the Secretary, so should anyone wish to join use, then let Bob August 51 Signal Squadron BBQ. White know, preferably before the beginning of November. September Chairmans Quiz night. You can be assured of a great time. October 6 day Battlefield tour of Normandy. October meeting cancelled. November Quiz night. December (Proposed trip to Liverpool for their Christmas Carol night) Christmas function at Airth Castle. Afternoon tea Holyrood Palace Edinburgh.

We are always looking for new members to join our Branch so please contact the branch on [email protected]

Branch members gather together with the two recipients, prior LOUGHBOROUGH BRANCH to the meal

President Andy Riddell sh EFFIELD BRANCH Chairman Gerry Kane Secretary/Treasurer Bob White

Our April 2014 meeting necessitated a change of venue. As by David Wing this was to be an important event, we had to look for somewhere which would provide a substantial, relatively Don Ford, a private area to undetake two presentations. former member of the Royal We therefore moved from our regular location of the Beacon Corps of Public House, to the larger Priory Public House on the edge of Signals, will be Loughborough. We did this because the Priory were able to 100 years old in offer us a private room (mainly half of the restaurant) to hold August. our meeting. More importantly it gave us an excellent venue to undertake two more 50 Year Badge presentations. April Don was born 1st was not to be fools day, but a special day to two of our on 23 August most distinguished and stalwart members of the Branch. In 1914 at 6 great surroundings we were able to host our monthly Thomas Street, meeting, make the presentations and enjoy a very sociable Parkgate, near meal together afterwards. Rotherham. His father was a miner at Aldwarke Main Colliery. Don was educated at Parkgate National School, but from the age of 4 to 10½ years attended very little schooling as he contracted “Spanish Flu”, which caused a pandemic, killing about forty million worldwide.

During the Great War Don’s father served in the York and Lancaster Regiment, rising to the rank of Sgt. Post war he joined the Royal Field Artillery TA, based at Somme Barracks in Sheffield. When the Battery went on (tented) camps Don accompanied his father, and has memories of sleeping in Bell tents. He is certain that his exposure to fresh air improved his Branch Chairman Gerry Kane presents 50 Year Badge to Andy health and speeded recovery from the influenza. Riddell and Dave Geere

106 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 On leaving school at the age of fourteen Don spent two years presented with a Commander-in-Chief’s Commendation by working in a local Brass Foundry. When he was 16 he gained Field Marshall Montgomery. employment at Parkgate Iron and Steel, but two years later he was unemployed due to the effects of the Depression, and The Division ended the War stationed in Celle, and Don decided to join the Army. remembers seeing the victims of the Belsen Concentration Camp, and the efforts made by the troops to help them. In September 1932 Don joined the Royal Signals at Catterick Camp. When he started his basic training he was allocated to As Don was in the Police before Mobilisation, he was the trade Driver (Horse Transport). After two months he Demobilised before many others, at Racecourse, and transferred to become an OWL (Operator Wireless and Line). returned to duty with Sheffield City Police. Don served in He gained his Army Certificate of Education Class 3, and won a Sheffield City Police and its successor, Sheffield and prize for his essay on the book “The Thirty Nine Steps”. Rotherham Constabulary until retirement in 1968, rising to the rank of Inspector. The last eighteen years were spent in the On completion of Basic and Trade Training Don was posted to Road Traffic Department, and he was responsible for setting 5th Division Signals stationed at Burniston Barracks, up the Police Driving School. Scarborough where he served for the next three years. During this time he gained his Class 2 in Education and After retiring from the Police Force, Don worked in the Stone qualified as a B2 tradesman. Quarrying Industry in North Derbyshire in various capacities involved with heavy road transport. Jobs included HGV Don’s father was killed in an underground accident at Driving instructor and Transport Manager. Aldwarke Main Colliery in January 1933, leaving a widow with a four year old child. In 1935 Don applied for, and was I first realised Don had served in the Royal Corps of Signals granted, a Compassionate Discharge so he could be at home when he came to Church a couple of years ago wearing a and help his mother. He remained on the Army Reserve. Corps tie. We started talking, and he told me he had been on holiday with his family. and they had taken him to the The next two years were spent lorry driving, and in January Museum at Blandford. Whilst there he sat at the Morse Key 1938 Don joined Sheffield City Police. One of his first duties as and went straight through the alphabet with no problems – in ”a rookie Bobby” (his description) was Point Duty near the his late nineties, some 55 years or so after he last used Morse! Sheffield Wednesday Football Ground on a match Saturday. Of course – he patronised the shop and bought a Corps tie! His comment on it – “It were chaos” Don and Rose now live in Ecclesfield, Sheffield, and are On the outbreak of the Second World War Reservists in the looking forward to his 100th Birthday in August this year, and Police and Fire Services were not recalled immediately to the their 75th Wedding Anniversary next January. They have a Colours, but on 1 December 1939 Don returned to Catterick. daughter and son, 6 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Until his Army pay rose to match his Police Salary his earnings were toped up by Sheffield Corporation. After a month Don was posted to 2nd Training Battalion R southondon l BRANCH SIGNALS at Whitby, being promoted to LCpl, as an instructor in Morse by key and flag. Whilst with the Battalion he was again promoted, eventually to Sgt. One of our members, Fred Hermon of Bexhill, celebrated his On 1 January 1940 Don had married his fiancée, Rose Senior, 100th birthday recently at the Bexhill RBL Branch where he nd and she moved to Whitby. 2 Training Battalion remained in has been a member for a number of years. Part of the Whitby until after the Dunkirk evacuation, when the camp celebration was a “Jimmy” birthday cake. was used to accommodate front line units for the defence of Fred was President, Vice President and Secretary of the the coast. The Battalion moved to Huddersfield, and Don and Bexhill Branch of the RBL over a period of years. Before that Rose then lived there. in the 1950s he was Secretary and President of the After some time Don requested a posting, and was posted to Whyteleafe Branch in Croydon for over 25 years. He became 43rd (Wessex) Divisional Signals. He was employed in 130 Chairman of the Tonbridge group and elected as a member of Brigade Signals Office. The Division was stationed in the Kent/ the Surrey Council of the British Legion, later becoming vice- Sussex area, and one of his memories is the number of President. He joined the South London Branch Royal Signals casualties (including several fatalities) in night exercises, due Association when it was resurrected in 2000. to Despatch Riders running into the rear of unlit vehicles on blacked out roads.

After about a year Don was moved into the Divisional HQ Signal Office, where he remained during the training for the D-Day landings and the push through Europe as part of 30 Corps.

43rd Division landed in the Arromanches/Courseulles area after the Great Storm. Don has vivid memories of the conditions on board ship during the storm – mainly a cycle of “get up; eat; sea-sickness; return to bed” until the storm subsided sufficiently to allow landing.

Don has many memories of the move through NW Europe; like many serving he saw time of intense activity, interspersed with periods of very little activity. One of his outstanding memories is being told to report in his best uniform. When he did this (in some trepidation) he found himself being

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 107 AFSA, and we were joined by members of the community including some who had relatives on the ship. SWINDON BRANCH

President Lt Col (Retd) David Gent Chairman Peter Howells Secretary Rod Ashman

0800hrs on June 21 2014 saw 12 members of the Swindon Branch RSA boarding a mini bus, destination Blandford.

Spirits were high (not the drinking kind – too early) all looking forward to a great day out, and we were not disappointed. The Band and The White Helmets were, as usual, great, and everyone had a great day out.

The Branch would like to thank everyone who contributed to the running of the reunion. We are all looking forward to next year Members of the AFSA in front of Glossop War Memorial

After a two-minute silence a wreath was laid by AFSA member Philip Tice (96) who had been driven from his home in Eastbourne for the occasion. His wreath commemorated the six men who had perished. Further wreaths were laid in memory of Cpl WG Bamforth and those members of his section that had survived and a third by AFSA member Capt John Alletson on behalf of the Glossop and District Royal Signals Old Comrades Association.

AIR FORMATION SIGNALS associaton

President Lt Col AEA Corkery, CO 21 Signal Regiment Vice-President Maj J Snelgrove, OC 244 Signal Squadron Chairman Dr AD Vickers Secretary Capt (Retd) CJP Dennis Philip Tice lays his wreath. The Rev Jim McManus looks on Members of the AFSA met for their annual reunion at the Britannia Hotel, Bramhope, Leeds, over the weekend 25 - 27 The photographs were taken by Mr David Jones, editor of the April. On Friday evening we enjoyed a buffet supper followed Glossop Chronicle, who wrote a full page article in that paper. by entertainment by our own little nightingale, Miss Emma He was commended for getting all his facts right and it is by James, who treated us to one of her usual energetic and his kind permission that we can reproduce the images here. ebullient performances. The following morning we set off, He was very helpful in publishing articles beforehand to with windscreen wipers working furiously, by coach to publicise our event, an event that attracted visitors and Glossop where, at the George Hotel, we were revived with contacts from as far away as Angelesey. After a sumptuous coffee and biscuits. We met the Mayor of High Peak, buffet lunch at the hotel we had an hour to explore Glossop Councillor Tony Kemp, the Vicar of All Saints Church, Glossop, before returning to Bramhope. Rev Ian Stubbs and members of the Glossop branch of the Royal British Legion. By this time Glossop was bathed in Other members of the Association joined us together with Cpl brilliant sunshine! Smissen, a serving member of 244 Sqn, and his fiancée. At the AGM Mrs Flo Dennis persuaded her husband to volunteer At 10.30am, led by Daniel Millan, bearing the AFSA Standard, his services as General Secretary and he was voted in with we proceeded to the war memorial, situated in a small square alacrity! The Chairman reported that, with the imminent off the main roads, and held a short Act of Remembrance in move of 244 Sqn from Colerne to Bramcote, he had invited memory of six members of 2nd Air Formation Signals, all from Maj James Snelgrove, OC Sqn, to become Vice-President. He Glossop, who perished when the troopship HMT Lancastria had been pleased to accept. was sunk off St Nazaire on June 17th, 1940. The service was led by Rev Ian Stubbs and Rev Jim McManus, Chaplain to the The evening concluded with a formal dinner.

108 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 Trip to the Netherlands 2nd ‑ 6th May 2014 the team’s performance from his shack at home! Peter Fletcher and Chris Dennis were joined by John Dixon who Member Len Brace, who is also a member of the East London rode from Boston with his radio on the back of his motorbike. Branch of the RSA, was invited by the London Taxi Benevolent David Vickers, a Short Wave Listener, also attended. Association to go to Arnheim for a service of remembrance at Arnheim Oosterbeek War Cemetery on Sunday 4 May , the Propagation conditions were not ideal - the adjective 69th anniversary of the surrender of German troops in ‘abysmal’ was used by Peter - but over 500 contacts were Holland, Denmark and NE Germany. He and Ron Batchelor, made. Many of these were to RSARS, RAFARS, RNARS also of the East London Branch, were picked up by London members and to D-Day stations in France and Belgium. taxi from their homes and taken to Harwich. Len writes: Twenty-two contacts were made on CW, the rest on voice. One long distant contact was made to Australia and others to “I was lucky enough, once again, to be taken on a trip to the such places as Gozo, Luxemburg and a Maritime Mobile Netherlands by the London Taxi Benevolent Association. We somewhere in the North Sea. travelled over‑night from Harwich to the Hook of Holland, breakfasting on the ferry before a trip to the National War Denis (aka Johnny) Egan Museum at Overloom and booking in to the Papendal Hotel, Arnheim. The weather was really good and remained so for the Denis Egan was a founder-member of the AFSA and for rest of our stay in the Netherlands. On the Sunday, after twenty years General Secretary and Treasurer. He also breakfast, we attended the British Military Service at master-minded the annual Amateur Radio Special Event Oosterbreak CWGC cemetery hosted by the Holland Branch of stations that were regular events at Colerne since the move the Royal British Legion. This was a very moving service with of 21 Signal Regiment to this country from Germany. Now 1,800 Paratroopers buried in the cemetery and it brought back nearer 90 than 80 - much nearer! - he resigned as General so many memories. Now ninety, with knees that have done a Secretary in 2013 and as Treasurer this year. The AFSA, under lot of service, it took me back to my late teens when I visited its various names, was very much his baby and he took an Holland in very different times. active interest in all aspects of the Association’s operations.

Following the service we went to Arnhem and boarded a cruise To mark his retirement he was presented with a framed print ship for a trip down the Rhine. The ship was moored at of ‘The Longest Camp’. The print shows a Dispatch Rider, Nijmegen Bridge when a Lancaster bomber made two passes mounted on a Norton 16H, delivering a message to the CO of overhead followed by a flypast of more modern aircraft. As we a TA Signal Unit at summer camp in August 1939, a message cruised the Rhine we were entertained by a jazz band and from the ordering his unit to mobilise. Very barber shop singers and enjoyed a Buffet Lunch. Drink and food appropriate as Dennis was a DR. was free! On Monday we attended Dutch Liberation Celebrations and Parade at Wageningen. 120 war veterans, in 3 David Vickers and Chris Dennis took time off from the double‑decker buses, were given a police escort and we were Amateur Radio station at Colerne to visit Dennis at his home saluted by marching bands. There followed a Military Show where this photograph was taken of David presenting the with a parachute demonstration. We were given a very warm print to Dennis on Friday 6 June. Chris took the photograph reception by the Dutch people with all the children showing great interest and enthusiasm.

In the evening we returned to the Papendal Hotel for dinner and a talent show which included a Frank Sinatra impersonator who gave a rousing rendition of My Way. On the last day, Tuesday 6 May, as we checked out of our hotel we had a group photograph of the Veterans. We headed back to sea where our last Act of Remembrance was a service and wreath‑laying as we crossed the English Channel. Once again I was returning home from Europe with comrades, ex‑soldiers and veterans, having re‑lived the unique relationship and history between ourselves and the Dutch people.”

Dennis Egan admires the print presented to him by David Vickers, Chairman of the AFSA

associaton OF HARROGATE APPRENTICES

Len Brace en-route to Wageningen New Association of Harrogate Apprentices Standard

By Johnny McGahan (59a) Amateur Radio Special Event Station The 4 Associations were represented by 120 members at the During the week 2 – 8 June amateur radio enthusiasts Army Apprentice national Memorial, Alrewas for the descended on Training Wing, 21 Signal Regiment, at Colerne ceremony of the Blessing of the new AOHA Standard. Two and set up shop using call sign GB4RSA. The station was pipers and a drummer played an introduction followed by the master-minded, as usual by Dennis Egan who, sadly, was welcoming address by patron, Maj Gen GB Berringham CB (ex unable to join in this year due to ill health - but he monitored Arborfield).

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 109 After a Thanksgiving Prayer and the reading of a poem, the Standard was presented by our ultra-smart Bearer, Mike Crooke (58a) to Rev Gary Kelly (ex Arborfield), who blessed the furled Standard which was then unfurled.

Following the blessing the Act of Remembrance included The Army Apptrentice School lament specially written and played by Piper Alex Burt and the Last Post played by a Royal Marine. Hymns were sung accompanied by a 14-piece brass band from the Salvation Army and the ceremony finished with closing Prayers, Blessings and the National Anthem.

Throughout it all the rain stayed away – obviously Rev Kelly has friends in high places! Standard bearer Mike Crooke with the new AOHA Standard The Standard and equipment have now been paid for with some cash to spare. REUNIONS

Reunion of Scott Squadron, Army Attention All members of intake 84C Apprentices College Harrogate Army Apprentices College Harrogate

Following on from the previous two successful (and highly From: Simon Jenner (Bradley Sqn) enjoyable) events, the next Scott Squadron Reunion is to take place on 21 March 2015 at the Cedar Court Hotel Harrogate. To: All Members of 84C AAC Harrogate. The reunion is open to any personnel who were in or attached to Scott Squadron (ATs and PS) and wives/partners will be It will be 30 years this September since we all arrived at the most welcome. train station at Harrogate and started that 2 year stay at the hands of various characters. For details please contact either: A reunion is planned for the weekend of the 6th/7th Paul Moscardini at [email protected] or phone September 2014. Full details are available at the facebook 07778167332. Group: or Nigel Cory at [email protected] or phone 07970 016567. 84C AAC Harrogate 30year Reunion (Penny Pot P#ss Up) Or Information will also be posted on the Scott Squadron Contact me direct at [email protected] Reunion page on FaceBook (http://www.facebook.com/home. php?sk=group_194983517193766¬if_t=group_activity). It would be good to catch up with anyone that can make it. LAST POST

AF Andrews 1954/57 16-Jun-14 WO2 RW Howard 1935-61 09-Jul-14 LCpl HJ Asher 1941/46 05-Apr-14 Sig RF Howlett 1939/46 08-May-14 Sig AG Atkins 1955/57 ??-Jan-2014 WO1 RV Huxtable 1959/82 17-Jun-14 Sig T Bell 1955/58 ??-Jan-2014 Sgt JWH Jarman 1942/47 30-Jun-14 Sig J Bin Nangah 1951/70 ??/06/2014 WO1 W Lawson 19??-?? 29-Jun-14 Sig KH Brown 1942/47 19-May-14 Cpl M Mallinson 1965/87 23-Apr-14 WO1 C Cooke 1946-69 05-Jul-14 Cpl J McCann 1944/48 15-Apr-14 LCpl K Cowlishaw 1943-47 17-Mar-14 RJ McFarland BEM 1954-?? 09-Jun-14 Sig C Crockett 1939-42 28-May-14 Sig JA Munday 1941/42 30-May-14 Capt JA Esson 1946/95 15-Jun-14 Sgt T Parton 1942-46 01-Jul-14 WO2 K Fenwick-Beadle 1946-67 28-Jun-14 Sig MIL Pluchino 1958-60 26-Jun-14 LCpl JP Flynn 1955/81 21-Jun-14 Sig DL Rackham 1950/55 12-Jun-14 Capt BM Freeman 1951/63 20-May-14 Cpl B Rees 1961/86 14-May-14 WO2 JR Fryer 1949/80 27-May-14 Lt Col HSDE Rogers 1953/87 26-Jun-14 Sig A Gandey 939/46 ??-??-2014 Sig M Rose 1983/87 29-Jun-14 Cpl Gibbons 1955/67 04-Feb-14 Lt Col S Scofield 1940/63 11-May-14 Sig DP Hall 1941/46 13-May-14 Brig WE Sherratt 1943/74 12-May-14 Maj PJ Handibode 1970/05 07-May-14 Capt M Skilleter 1939-46 15-Mar-14 Capt D Hanks 1939/47 23-May-14 Cpl D Thomasson 1965/75 10-May-14 Maj G Harrison 1937/78 19-Jun-14 Sgt O Weir 1959/63 19-Jun-14 Capt G Hayes 1966/74 27-May-14 Sig D Wiseman 1960/70 30-Apr-14 Sig DG Hibbs 1939-46 19-May-14 Sgt W Wood 1947/70 08-Jun-14 Sgt CH Houghton 1944/48 21-Jun-14 SSgt RL Woodfine 1973/95 25-Jun-14

110 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 OBITUARIES

MULHOLLAND - Archie Mulholland died 28 February 2014 A farewell is necessary before you meet again, and meeting again, after moments or life times apart, is certain for those Archie Mulholland was born on 7 February 1936 who are friends. and grew up in Paisley, Scotland. His father left when he was a child and his mother died of TB when Archie was 15 years old. He then left school and joined 6 (Boys) Training COULTISH - John David Coultish died 4 May 2014. Regiment, Royal Signals, at Beverley. After he joined Man Service he served in Aden, Born in Selby John enlisted in York in 1961 and Suez Canal Zone, Cyprus and Germany. He joined the Corps as a boy solider at Harrogate as wanted to remain in the Army but he was part of 61C. It was here that his training as a invalided out with a stomach ulcer. Archie radio telegraphist began and his pride in his returned to Paisley and went to work at trade continued until his death. At an RSA Scottish Cables where he met his wife, Wilma, to meeting when old Morse keys were handed whom he was married for almost 52 years. They had round John was still able to bash out a two children, Stuart, born in 1963 and Denise born in 1967. conversation at a decent speed, a skill once He eventually went to work for Ciba Geigy in Paisley where he learnt seldom forgotten. spent the remainder of his working life, retiring at the age of 55. He and Wilma then ran the Gateside Guest House for a Leaving Harrogate in 1963 he was posted to BAOR number of years until they moved with their Son and his and from there in January 1966 to South Yemen, a curious 3 family to Glenshee in December 2002. month gap in Swaziland occurred in July 66, then back to the Yemen, R&R was a lot better in those days? Archie joined the Beverley Ex-Boys Association in 2000 and attended a number of their Reunions. Wilma was, Sadly Johns AFB108 simply records Home, Northern Ireland unfortunately, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2010 and Archie or BAOR with no actual units mentioned but Helen has been became her full time carer until she was taken into residential able to piece together some of his postings as 22 Sigs, 7 Sigs, care in December 2013. Archie was diagnosed with cancer 22 for a second tour and 1 Div, then in Verden Germany. early in February 2014 and died peacefully with his close family in attendance at Blairgowrie Cottage Hospital on 28 February In 1974 John decided he would try for Yeoman of Signals so 2014. His funeral was held at Woodside Crematorium, Paisley, spent a greater part of that year in Catterick undertaking his on 7 March 2014 and was attended by John Sinclair from SSgts course and his cypher course as it was then known it Edinburgh to represent the Beverley Ex-Boys. We send our was during this time he met his second wife Helen. His SSgts deepest sympathy to all his family. course could not have been as hard as he would have you believe as the course photo shows him clearly grinning like a Cheshire cat.

In 1980 he turns up as an NRPI at 32 (Northern Irish Horse) EADY – WOII MG (Mick) Eady – died 21 November 2013 Signal Regiment in Londonderry Northern Ireland for 3 years, a difficult job at the best of times Sgt Coultish cut a fine dash Born in February 1951 in Nottingham Mick was in his glengarry. In 1981 he found himself on an All Arms one of three children. He always wanted to RQMS Course in Farnborough but he was in good company become a ‘soldier’ and on leaving school in as there were 5 other Royal Signals SNCOs on the same 1968 he immediately joined the Army and course. became a Royal Signals Junior Leader in Denbury. In 1984 he completed his elementary sailing course and his competent crew course but it was not until George Winson Mick served with the Corps around the (Ex Welsh Guards) lured him from the Mess with the promise world and met his wife Paula whilst serving of a “Herfy handbag” did he gain his day skippers ticket in with 4 ADSR in Herford. He completed his 1986, and his love of sailing took off so to speak. George and service as the RQMS General at 9 Signal Sarah remained lifelong friends of John and Helen, who left Regiment and throughout his service he was Catterick in August 2009 to set up home in Spain near to dedicated and professional. them. It was only when John started to become ill did they return home. Having enjoyed a full career in the Corps Mick joined Porcelanosa in 1991 and rose meteorologically through the On discharge in 10 August 1996 he left his job as a Recruiting management ranks to become a company director and having and Liaison Officer where he had served with Gus Vigas and relocated to Peterborough in 1993 he joined the RSA and Bill Price. He tried his hand at a few jobs such as working on subsequently went on to become a consultant in his own the oil rigs for 13 years, eventually working as a storeman at 9 right, a local parish councillor and a county magistrate. Regt AAC in Dishforth. Well his job title was storeman but typical of him he had a finger in as many pies as he could and Mick was a man who gave his all to everything and lived his would often be sent home with a van so that he could be on life to the full. He died unexpectedly on 21 November 2013 the road to BAD Longtown early in the morning to collect and he leaves behind his wife Paula, son Raymond, daughter ammunition. He would sneak into the cookhouse and help Nikki and grandchildren Cameron, Eleanor, Connor and Jake. himself to breakfast before loading up and being on the road His passing will be mourned by those whose lives he touched back before 9am. It didn’t matter to John that he didn’t have and his funeral in Peterborough was attended by his family a HAZMAT licence, he would cross that bridge when he broke and friends plus representatives of the RSA, Porcelanosa, the down on it. Magistrates service and the local community.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2014 111 It was his can do attitude that endured him to many and the based in Bexleyheath. Here he played a major part in turning letters and cards of condolence that Helen is receiving are still 265 from the Regiments HQ and Sig Sqn into a fully fledged growing. With his old friend Roger Harris he would often be Radio Sqn. As well as regular exercises, trips to Germany to found holding O Groups in the Bay Horse in Catterick village play the local German teams were also considered a highlight or on the golf course. Even though there is no record of him of the TA calendar. His hard work and his many years’ service achieving a hole in one he loved aiming at rabbits and for the Corps were recognised by the award of the MBE in watching the targets fall when hit. 1981. An achievement he was highly proud of.

Another of his friends, Martin Greaves, gave a very moving Jim loved his Corps and was proud to be a member of 254 Old eulogy at the funeral held in Catterick Village on 15 May 2014 Boys Association. His total service to the Corps was 49 years and touched on his many exploits, onc of which is worth 6 months. During this time he met and remained friends with retelling here. One evening John and I went to see a concert some remarkable colleagues. of Ghurkha’s singing and dancing. When we got there John headed to the bar, I guess that’s no surprise to everyone and On leaving the Territorial Army, they moved to Hereford to be Martin bought some raffle tickets. There was a long queue at near their daughter Lesley. Here he met many new friends the bar so by the time he got back with the beer it was almost and lived life to the full. Last year was Jim and Joyce’s 60th time to go in, thus not giving him time to get himself raffle wedding anniversary and Jim was so proud of his card from tickets. Martin said you got the beers I will share the raffle “his” Queen. tickets, so John took one strip of tickets and left me with the other. The first prize was a very beautiful and ornate kukri There are many stories that his colleagues remember him by, that now hangs on his dining room wall. Only John could win but the most famous of these was “Danny Boy”. Jim always a raffle without buying a ticket. took things in his stride but on one occasion he was slightly worried. At RAF St Mawgan when moving into a bunker at With John it was not “what you know” it was” who you the end of the runway Jim decided to boost morale, as he know” and the local RSA Branch will sorely miss his unique often did, and decided to serenade everyone over the tannoy talents; we have lost a very good QM. in the bunker with his favourite song, Danny Boy. A colleague at the time said “Jim, don’t think you should play with things, you don’t know where it is going”.

A few minutes later the RAF Police stormed in. “OK, where is ESSON – Capt James Esson MBE – died 15 June 2014 Val Doonican?” Jim was told to report to the Base Commander at 0900 the next morning as he had been Jim Esson, a retired Capt in the Royal Corps of Signals, passed broadcasting across the National Alert Network. By now Jim away peacefully on Sunday 15 June 2014 after a long illness of was looking a bit pale. kidney failure at the Hillside Rehabilitation Centre with his family with him. His family were grateful for the care he As Jim’s colleagues showed them out, the police said “Sir, it is received from the staff, who genuinely cared. Jim had in fact only going to our Police Incident Room, but do try and suffered kidney failure for the last few years and was under keep the lads under control”. Jim was not told the truth until the care of the CAPD medical staff at QE Birmingham, many the next morning! of whom had become friends of the family. Jim touched the lives of many people and a few of the With the death of Jim, over 80 years of family connection tributes: with the Corps came to an end. His Army career started when his father caught him playing truant from college and said • Jim was in the top three most respected, liked and “continue college or join the Army”. How hard could the helpful soldiering colleagues of my lifetime and I am Army be thought Jim, so he joined the Royal Signals in 1946, hugely proud to have spent many happy and when only 16 years of age! He was trained in Boy Service as worthwhile times with him. an Operator Wireless and Keyboard. • He was a very special person, the like of which one seldom meets more than once in a lifetime. Jim’s father, Sig ‘Jock’ Esson, had joined the Corps on its • It was he who put the heart and soul into 256 “back formation in 1920, transferring from the Gordon Highlanders, in the day”, and created a Squadron that inspired and was one of those who marched into Maresfield Camp, the the pride, loyalty and happy memories still evident Corps’ first home, something Jim was always proud of. amongst its veterans today. • I cannot think of anyone else who, after having left He was born in Belfast and met his wife Joyce, then a Leading the Squadron 17 years previously, would still warrant WREN, and they married in 1953. Joyce had confessed that a standing ovation by way of welcome to the she once had to pawn her wristwatch at the end of their disbandment dinner. Jim Esson is a legend. honeymoon to pay for Jims ticket back to Barracks. They had a wonderful life, being posted to various destinations, which Jim had a lovely send off on 27 June 2014 and will be sorely included Singapore, Paris, Germany and Belgium. During this missed by all his family and Army friends from all over the time they had two children, Lesley and Michael, and have country. Attending the funeral were eight ex Squadron three grandchildren. Commanders spanning around 24 years from 1983 to 2007, two of whom went on to become Colonels, plus four ex Jim served with the following; SHAPE (Paris/Belgium Live Sergeant Majors and a smattering of other officers, SNCOs Oak), 38 Sig Regt, 18 Sig Regt FARELF, 1 Div and 265 (KCLY) and JNCOs. Sig Sqn. Jim also attended No7 Yeoman of Signals Course in 1964. Jim was respected by everyone who new him, was a special person with a wonderful sense of humour and was always When Jim left the Regular Army in 1977 as a Traffic Officer, he smiling. joined 71 Sig Sqn as PSAO, serving with 265 (KCLY) Sig Sqn,

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