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August 2010

The Royal Corps of Signals THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 HONOURS AND AWARDS

We congratulate the following Royal Signals personnel who received awards in the Queens Birthday Honours List 2010

Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) Lt Col BJ Spiers Blandford Garrison Support Unit

Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) Lt Col SA Clarke GM QGM Maj BJ Skinner

We congratulate the following Royal Signals personnel who received the Meritorious Service Medal in May 2010

WO1 DP Collins 30 Sig Regt WO2 DW Maxwell 216 Sig Sqn

We congratulate the following Royal Signals personnel who received a Commander in Chief’s Certificate for Meritorious Service in the Queens Birthday Honours List 2010

Capt DG Ikin 38 Sig Regt (V) SSgt TW Abbott 37 Sig Regt (V) Cpl AJ Arnold 299 Sig Sqn Capt (Retd) R Wright 10 Sig Regt August 2010 Vol. 64 No: 4 The Magazine of the Royal Corps of Signals Established in 1920 The Wire Editor

Mr Keith Pritchard Published bi-monthly Tel: 01258 485249 Annual subscription £12.00 plus postage Editor: Mr Keith Pritchard Deputy Editor: Mrs Amy Petersen Deputy Editor All correspondence and material for publication in The Wire should be addressed to: Mrs Amy Petersen Tel: 01258 485248 The Wire, RHQ Royal Signals, Blandford Camp, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8RH Email: [email protected] Welfare Contributors Deadline for The Wire : 15th February for publication in the April. Mrs Linda Sizeland 15th April for publication in the June. Tel: 01258 482089 15th June for publication in the August. 15th August for publication in the October. 15th October for publication in the December. 10th December for publication in the February.

Accounts / Subscriptions To see The Wire on line or to refer to Guidelines for Contributors, go to: http://www.army.mod.uk/signals/heritage/1311.aspx Miss Ruby Stanley Subscribers Tel: 01258 482087 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

EDITORIAL CONTENTS

It is with deep regret that we have to publish the untimely death Page of Sig David Grout who had returned to the UK from Afghanistan on R&R whilst serving with the TFH Sig Sqn. Our thoughts are Movements 2 with his family at this difficult time. News from Blandford 3 On a lighter note, our congratulations go out to all those mentioned in the Queens Birthday Honours List. Their names and awards are published on the inside cover. News of Training 6

The quantity of material submitted for this edition far exceeded News from Regiments 7 the maximum size of the magazine. As a result we have had to trim some of the material published, which means that some News from Squadrons 62 good photographs have not been published. Also some articles will miss this edition but will now be published in the October Other Units 77 edition. Our policy is to try and maintain currency, so reports from Units will take priority with sport and interest articles making Adventure Training 85 way if necessary. However, please do not feel discouraged as your reports will eventually be published. I am very happy with The Royal Signals Association 88 this situation but do apologise to those whose hard work has not made it to the final proofs but please do not be deterred – keep Donations 89 sending your articles and photographs. Last Post 94 Obituaries 94 Reunions 96

FRONT COVER BACK COVER The Princess Royal meets RSA members at the RSA Reunion held The two 40 Sig Regt Group teams after finishing 1st and 3rd in at Blandford Camp 19 - 20 June. the UNFICYP Military Skills Competition on 28 May.

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. Printed by Holbrook Printers Ltd, Norway Road, Hilsea, Portsmouth © Crown Copyright MOVEMENTS

Name and Rank Unit to which posted Name and Rank Unit to which posted

MARCH 2010 AUGUST 2010 Lt Col JRC Bunce ...... Land Warfare Dev Gp Maj LJ Courage ...... Eng Div, DCCIS Lt Col JRE Janes ...... HQ SOINC(A) CSD Ntwks Capt AM Combe ………… 16 Air Asslt Bde Lt Col CC Richards ...... MOD Defence Staff A/Lt Col BM Bingham ...... HQ UKSC - J6 Branch APRIL 2010 A/Lt Col PJ Cooper ...... HQ DISC Capt JA March ………… 2 Sig Regt Maj ND Baker ...... HQ 19 Lt Bde - 209 Sqn Maj NC Bruce ...... 7 Armd Bde MAY 2010 Maj AR Campbell ………… HQ Land G6 CBM Maj JKR Hawkins ...... HQ 145 (S) Bde Maj RJ Craig ...... HQ ARRC Maj EA Mortimore ...... HQ SOINC(A) RHQ Maj CP Crowther ...... 10 Sig Regt RHQ Capt AR Bunting ………… 3 (UK) Div - 206 Sqn Maj TJ Downes ...... 21 Sig Regt (RHQ) Capt IR Flannery ………… 3 (UK) Div HQ & Sig Regt Maj RJG Edwards ...... HQ ARRC Capt FS Keith ………… Temp HQ 2 (SE) Bde PRU Maj A Greenfield ...... PJHQ - J6 Capt AP Manley ………… 22 Sig Regt - 222 Sqn Maj GB Ingram ...... Temp JSCSC Cse, Land Capt MS Mattacola ………… 14 Sig Regt (EW) Maj SC Jeffery ...... 21 Sig Regt - 244 Sqn Capt GMT Oosterveen ………… CSDT Ops, DCCIS Maj JO Lambeth ...... DSTL Capt KS Smith ………… 30 Sig Regt HQ Sqn Maj GH Lenthall ...... Temp JSCSC Cse, Land Capt CK Whittley ………… HQ UKTF Maj AG Lucas ...... 22 Sig Regt RHQ Maj PN Randell ...... 14 Sig Regt (EW) JUNE 2010 Maj KJ Simmons ………… CISM Cse, DCCIS Lt Col CD McGrory ...... HQ 2 Div - G6 CIS Maj JL Squires ...... HQ Land - G6 CBM Maj DC Ball ………… HQ 11 Sig Bde Maj PF Stowell ………… DGISS, DES Maj HL Bosley ...... CAST (S) Maj NGC Yardley ...... Temp JSCSC Cse, Land Maj CM Dixon ...... BATCIS IPT, DES Capt KF Allt ………… HQ 12 Mech Bde Maj KA Jeeves ...... ATR (W) Capt JEG Barr ………… 20 Armd Bde Sig Sqn Maj L Keily ...... NATO - CIS B Capt CS Budding ………… 39 Sig Regt (V) Spt Sqn Maj VE McNaught ...... 16 Air Asslt Bde HQ Capt MJ Cox ...... 12 Mech Bde Maj DG Richardson ...... 2 Sig Regt Capt SW Crowther ………… HQ ARRC Capt JM Cunningham ...... 14 Sig Regt (EW) Capt MR Flather ………… DCCIS CISM Cse Capt RHC Day ………… 12 Mech Bde Capt TEF Gardner ………… 1 Gren Gds Capt ML Gray ………… 22 Sig Regt - 248 Sqn Capt JW Hooker ...... CSD Trg Ops, DCCIS Capt JZ Haines ………… HQ London District Capt PA Leach ………… 1 (UK) Armd Div Sig Regt Capt MW Joiner ...... 10 Sig Regt - 225 Sqn Capt SR McGuckien ………… 3 (UK) Div HQ & Sig Regt Capt HM Kealy ………… 39 Sig Regt (V) HQ Capt R Pace ………… USSO, Bowman Capt L McGrail ………… 71( Y) Sig Regt (V) Capt CJ Raynor ………… SANGCOM, DES Capt PJ Stubbs ...... 11 Sig Regt, DCCIS Capt GA Stanger ...... 14 Sig Regt (EW) Capt LE Webster ...... Maternity Leave Capt SV Thomas ………… 71(Y) Sig Regt (V) Capt RJ Thompson ………… USSO HQ JULY 2010 Capt MJ Tremelling ………… 14 Sig Regt (EW) Lt Col TC Cooper ...... DES Capt EK Watson ………… HQ SOINC(A) CSD Ntwks A/Lt Col JG Hill ...... HQLF AD G6 Capt N Watton ………… JSSU Cheltenham Maj M Barratt ...... SANGCOM A/Capt ME Wilson Ramsay ………… Off Cdt Sch Maj SO Cole ...... HQ SOINC(A) CSD Ntwks Lt D Wall ………… 52 Inf Bde - 258 Sig Sqn Maj CP Coleman ...... 3 (UK) Div - 206 Sqn Maj AKT Crapper ...... DGISS SEPTEMBER 2010 Maj AHT Garrett ...... HQ 1 Sig Bde Lt Col E Doughty ………… Temp JSSU Digby L6M Maj CJ Kell ...... 11 Lt Bde - 261 Sig Sqn Lt Col RG Thomas ...... Temp HQ SOINC L6M Maj JN Mayne ...... 7 Sig Regt - 232 Sqn Maj JC Higginson ...... CISM Cse, DCCIS Maj L O’Rourke ...... HQ SOINC(A) CSD Ntwks Maj BDD Howarth ...... CISM Cse, DCCIS Maj CI Russell ...... HQ 11 Sig Bde Maj RS Jacques ...... CISM Cse, DCCIS Maj WA Walker ...... 1 (UK) Armd Div Sig Regt Maj JD King ...... Temp Defence Academy Capt RDD Bennett ………… DES Maj GJ Oliver ...... CISM Cse, DCCIS Capt EF Brookes-Smith ………… HQ 11 Sig Bde Maj AD Shakespeare ...... CISM Cse, DCCIS Capt RP Hammond ………… 1 (UK) Armd Div Sig Regt A/Maj MC Duff ………… DGISS, DES Capt AC Hodges ………… JSSU (Cyp) - Comd Capt GD Hume ………… 102 Log Bde Capt D Khokaja Pun ………… Gurkha Coy Capt IG Thompson ………… HQ 1 Sig Bde Capt LS Matthews ………… JSSU Digby - Ops Lt EA Shale ...... 16 Air Asslt Bde Capt PV McGarry ………… HQ 11 Sig Bde Capt EA Moore ...... 7 Sig Regt - 229 Sqn NOVEMBER 2010 Capt CG Parkes ………… HQ SOinC(A) COS Capt JAM Watt ………… 1 (UK) Armd Div Regt Capt NCW Purdy ………… 21 Sig Regt - 220 Sqn A/Capt TEB Jones ………… NTM-I Fwd Capt JA Snelgrove ………… DES Capt MJ Speed ...... HQ SOINC(A) CSD Ntwks DECEMBER 2010 Capt CL Van Der Merwe ...... 11 Sig Regt, DCCIS Capt EL Cameron ………… 1 Mech Bde - 215 Sqn Capt TJC Walton ………… 2 Sig Regt Capt G Davies ………… NTM-I Fwd Lt KJ Bilney ...... 4 Mech Bde Capt IJ Kirk ………… PJHQ - J6

2 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 NEWS FROM BLANDFORD

NEWQUAY TRAINING CAMP – A FIRST YEAR PERSPECTIVE throughs ran a bit more smoothly. It was about the 4th week - by Cpl Rees when the good old Cornish weather paid a visit for the majority of our stay. This didn’t stop our training as we moved back on to The time arrived for our 6 week training in Newquay where we concrete but it did make the tricks we were still practicing on had heard the hard work was to begin. This was in fact the truth grass a bit harder as we found out when the 3 bike fan was going for 7 of us as LCpl Kes Potter injured himself on the 2nd day around and Cpl Bartlett’s bike slipped from underneath him and his strong ankle is still yet to be found. sending us crashing down, minus any injuries.

We woke on our first day ready to get the training underway, that Sadly though the show we were to give didn’t happen due to bad was until we got to the field. On arriving we were greeted by a weather and gale force winds. However it was a fun and very bumpy, manure covered area. This didn’t put us off however enjoyable 6 weeks with a few bumps and bruises along the way, and after a few days Cpl ‘Fossy’ Foster thought we needed to and we now look forward to another 3 weeks training back in get the warm fuzzy feeling again so moved us back to concrete. Blandford preparing for the Opening Show and receiving our Luckily during this time he was able to find us another grass area white helmets. that was better than the first and it wasn’t long till some of our personal tricks started to come along. After the first couple of NEWQUAY TRAINING CAMP – A SECOND YEAR weeks it was soon apparent that it was the body fatigue that PERSPECTIVE made the training harder as we practiced the tricks over and over again. The team train every year at RAF St Mawgan getting the newer members of the Team up to speed with all the first year tricks, Once we were managing to conquer the majority of our tricks we second years move on to learning how to reverse ride and learn were given the chance to jump on the quads and were taught the fast complex rides. It is also used as an opportunity for the how to do wheelies and ride on 2 wheels. Everyone was soon third years and above to increase all aspects of their abilities. trying to show off although the winner had to be LCpl ‘B’ Parris who managed to wheelie with her hand off the throttle due to her The second year’s concentrate on reverse riding for the first few “fast and furious” approach to all the tricks she does. We were weeks, getting their ability to a level so they were comfortable to also given the opportunity to practice car jumping, Sig Mann and take weight on the bike. Then they moved on to learn their Sig George Armitage leapt at the offer; all bets were placed to individual tricks over the next few weeks. Included in the last few see who would be the first to come off, but sadly both stayed on weeks was time set aside for learning new rides, and the final with a few good jumps as well as a couple of dodgy landings. weeks assigned for getting the show up to a good standard. Hats off to both of them for giving it a go. Learning to reverse ride was difficult due to the controls being As we started to get into the rhythm of things the 2nd and 3rd reversed and having to teach your brain to do everything year riders were allocated their tricks to ride. This raised the backwards, this includes correcting the bike, preventing the bike tempo due to the other riders dragging us from trick to trick from falling and correcting the speed with the offset hand. seeing who made the better props, once we were given our new tricks it was back to stage one again, trying to master them. The rides are at a fast pace and require a lot of concentration at The pace was raised after week 3 as we were now past the half all times, to ensure that you are in the right place at the right time way mark and were due to put a show on midway through the to ultimately prevent accidents occurring during rides.The final week. Solo practices were stopped and we concentrated on weather this year was not to the teams favour, with rain and putting the show together. Our first attempt could only be strong winds from the coast causing problems with training. described as shocking as we ran around the pits grabbing wrong bikes for the relevant people. Like they say though practice However the team put in extra training when the weather makes perfect or in our case a semi improvement and the run permitted. Along with extra training upon returning to Blandford, the show is now up to the required standard for the Opening Show.

THE WHITE HELMETS OPENING SHOW 2010

The first show of the year for the team is always our Opening Show which this year was on 24 April. This is where the team put on a full display in front of the SOinC for his approval and when the first year riders receive their White Helmets.

On the Saturday the team awoke to a warm sunny day which is ideal conditions for us to display. The team displaying consisted of just 21 riders which is probably the smallest that has ever performed in an opening show.

After a warm up around camp in the early morning all bikes and props were moved to the square. Then the The Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team customary pre opening show chat to the team outside

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 3 the garages to steady nerves before heading to Hawke Square for Cotterill, 2nd year rider Sig Pechey and the Team Captain Capt last minute preparations and show board. Jen Hollins who will hopefully perform in a show later on in the year to be able to receive her White Helmet. The show started well with a good opening ride, then came the first trick the famous “Double Jimmy” which failed to make the The following first year riders received their well earned “White corner due to a “braces issue” resulting in Cpl Bartlett being Helmets”: Cpl Tim Bartlett, Cpl Dave Cryle, Cpl Jon Rees, given the “black peak of shame” before he even received his LCpl Kev Hamiltion, LCpl Bee Parris, LCpl Kes Potter, Sig white helmet. Apart from this trick the rest of the rides and tricks Craig Mann and Sig Stevie Armitage. went according to plan. The new Kawasaki bikes and rides were received well by the younger members of the audience. The Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team ‘The White Helmets’ are always looking for new riders. The selection course for this The training that the White Helmets do to get the show to the year is running from 4 - 15 Oct 10. No previous motorcycle high standard required sometimes means there are a few bumps experience is necessary you just need to be physically fit and we along the way and unfortunately there have been a few this year. will train you to do the rest. If you are interested please contact So missing in the Opening Show was 3rd year rider LCpl 94371 2365 or 01258 482365 for further information.

COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT UNIT

DEFENCE INFORMATION INFRASTRUCTURE pub. After an hour or so the majority of the team had gone to IMPLEMENTATION TEAM (DIT), BLANDFORD bed but SAC Levett and LCpl Burns kept going strong, more - by LCpl Tuck 30 Sig Regt than filling the rest of the teams shoes.

On Monday 11 January 2010 the DII Implementation Team (DIT) The trial continues with no big surprises; LCpl Tuck continues to began the mammoth task of trialling the new DII Future Deployed take his regular 2hr toilet break and Sgt Bhatia RAF puts in yet (FD) system, with each node providing a level of communication another weeks leave from his infinite allowance. That said, the capability never seen before on the battlefield. Perhaps because team continues to be at the forefront of technology and is of this we soon realised that it wasn’t going to be as straight keeping the “spirit of trialling” alive. forward as we first expected. The team, consisting of some of the finest members of the tri-service ICS community, were about to have their nerves tested as DII consumed their lives.

The system is complex and requires weeks of manual user input to configure, but this held no fears for the DIT. The trial started at 0800 on Monday morning and morale was high after a truly stirring speech from FofS Brett Doyle. Each team deployed with their node and started working under the direction of their node commanders. Those lucky enough to be working with Sgt Ashton RM were put straight to work without hesitation (or brew)!

LCpl Al Longwe COMMAND AND BATTLESPACE MANAGEMENT (LAND) TRIALS TROOP

OC Capt Muz Murray YofS WO1 (YofS) Mark Wyldes FofS WO2 (FofS) Warren Quinn Tp Sgt Sgt Andy Rose RE

Sgt Phil Callaway and SAC Liam Levett The Bowman Trials Team (BTT), located in Blandford Camp was created in April 2002 under the auspices of the Command The trial continued and each node progressed at a steady rate. Support Development Centre. BTT were formed to conduct both After a few weeks the monotony was broken when the news technical and operational Field Trials across all aspects of the came about that the team had to put a squad forward for the Bowman communication system prior to release to British Armed approaching SOinC(A) march and shoot. For SAC Lasseter this Forces. The initial Tri-Service team of 10 (mostly driver operators) was a chance to mention his enduring shin splints injury and soon grew into a substantial team of 60. therefore count himself out of the competition. However taskmaster FofS (IS) Crompton wasn’t playing ball and his name In 2008 the decision was taken to re-brand the team to the went down on the team sheet nonetheless. Unfortunately, after catchy title of ‘Command and Battlespace Management (Land) all the hard training the march and shoot was postponed. Trials Troop’. The name change highlights the team’s increased Thankfully the next team bonding session was a little more remit, focussing on other tactical CIS rather than just Bowman. civilised, consisting of a curry and a night out. The last time this Most trials still have a Bowman flavour and the Tp is currently had been attempted was the Christmas party where the Tri supporting the Multinational Experimentation (MNE) programme, Service community was well represented with terrible dancing networking the Tactical Ground Reporting (TIGR) application over and corny pulling techniques. The team headed down town and High Capacity Data Radio (HCDR) and developing the Defence had a curry at the local Indian restaurant before moving on to the Information Infrastructure (Future Deployed) to Bowman Gateway.

4 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 As a multi-cap badge group of 23 personnel, the Tp is now a The Tp would like to say farewell and congratulations to Tpr Joe fraction of its former strength. Despite this, we still maintain a Matthews and Pte Stuart Taylor-Rice as they embark on their busy trials programme with vigour and enthusiasm. Like re-trade and transfer to R SIGNALS. Farewell also to LCpl Dan everyone else, we find ourselves increasingly operationally Swain as he returns to his parent unit, 2 RTR. Welcome to LCpl focused by being on a Campaign footing. Andrew Fyfe who is joining us from sunny Herford and congratulations to LCpl Claire Donaoghue on her recent RED SECTION - by Cpl Distefano marriage to LCpl Craig Donaoghue from the Corps Recruiting Team. This has been a very busy period for us; in addition to numerous other trials we have been focussed on preparation for the upcoming MNE trial. LCpl’s Chuck Norris and Tammy Williams along with LCpl Aaron Fellows from Blue Section are working with Sgt Mick Stirling to fit the Vehicle Service Access Point (VSAP) and guest radios into our FFR land rovers. This was achieved with assistance from General Dynamics UK prior to deploying to Fort Monmouth and subsequently Whitesands Missile Range in the USA. We have received many briefings on the aims, scope and methodology of the trial and continue to get as much familiarisation on the equipment as we possibly can.

BLUE SECTION

It’s been quite a busy period of late within the Section. It all started back in May with the majority of the Tp getting away for a week to catch some sunshine and carry out our MATTs in Chickerill Camp, Weymouth. On return from a busy MATTs week, we had no time to relax as we immediately deployed to the LCpl Claire Donaoghue (nee Towers) recently participated in the Dorset countryside to assess the improved range of the latest Army Swimming Union annual training camp in Gibraltar version of the HCDR. After a successful HCDR range trial, we then deployed straight onto Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA) T TROOP to conduct further HCDR range trials over more challenging terrain. This also provided the opportunity to brush off some OC Capt Brian Jeffery cobwebs and refresh Tp members on basic military skills. So Tp SSgt SSgt Jules Dolan with that it was a night out in the field with our resident infantrymen Sgt Dave Percival, LCpl Aaron Fellows and Pte The beginning of the month saw 749 and 346 Team on Salisbury Stuart Taylor-Rice going over the 6 section battle drills. We then Plain in the mud and rain, whilst a lucky few, namely Sgt Emma practised an advance to contact, with all members of the Tp Meadows and LCpl Andy Maidment worked within the comforts issuing fire control orders. This is a lost art which just isn’t of the Land Systems Reference Centre carrying out practiced enough within the Tp and was welcomed by all Interoperability trials on the Swe-dish Small SatCom. This members participating. equipment is due to replace Mitral in the coming year. 543 Team have also been extremely busy carrying out trials on a regular basis.

A contingent of the Ops team has been heavily involved with DII (FD) trials and this has included SSgt (FofS) Brett Doyle and Sgt Bri Milne. DII (FD) will replace a range of Communication Information Systems across the three Services. The busiest man in NATO award goes to Cpl Neil Haggar who has had his fingers in every pie within the Tp.

The majority of the Tp’s attention has been directed at assisting the FALCON Team which has pretty much stripped WO2 (YofS) Mick Murphy of his last remaining few hairs and made ‘Lambert and Butler’ extremely rich. FALCON is the new Communications System that will replace PTARMIGAN and will be due into service after trialling has been completed. The personnel within 346 Team have been on a very steep learning curve, due to the new Section Battle Drills lesson, delivered by LCpl Aaron Fellows equipment that FALCON brings with it. This includes the 18m PWRR masts, which operate on a winch system.

So, on the whole it remains an extremely busy period for the Tp. A small number of Tp personnel have managed to escape the As well as the MNE Trial we still have numerous other trials taking busy environment; LCpl Stu Tait attended the CBRNI course and place such as supporting the Royal Navy’s Exercise TRIDENT Sig Greg Heaney and LCpl O’Neill attended the BCDT course. WARRIOR in Portsmouth and the Joint Helicopter Command’s These qualifications allowed them to instruct on the annual airborne re-broadcast programme, which allowed our resident MATTs week that took place in Weymouth. LCpl Tait also Army Air Corps soldier, Cpl Brian Distefano to get back to managed to qualify Sig Heaney with his Assistant CBRNI familiar ground. The Tp also continues to assist with the qualification. LCpl O’Neill enthusiastically instructed on the development of TIGR, a Tactical Ground Reporting application, BCDT stand, finishing with a casualty simulation that was so able to give commanders up to date reports on previous and good it put ‘Saving Private Ryan’ to shame! The BCDT was ongoing patrols and contacts within a selected area, which is nominated for a BAFTA award as there were plenty of rounds hoped will bring direct operational benefits to soldiers deployed going down and a broken down Land Rover that had casualties on operations in Afghanistan. dripping fake blood all over it. Sig Richie Pullan decided that he was going to be the ‘joker of the pack’ by continuing to cough So, a busy period within CBM(L) Trials Tp; but with an excellent fake blood all over members of CBM(L) Trials Tp. The tactics that team ethos and professional operators, we continue to deliver an were seen throughout were like something from ‘Dads Army’ and effective and useful trial product on behalf of HQ Land Forces. there was a lot of adrenaline pumping. The weather remained

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 5 great throughout the week, especially when we were on the Lanyard Trophy. Cpl Graham Baily has been away playing his ranges. Pte Stuart Taylor-Rice PWRR showed that he was the favourite sport, for the Corps football. Recently LCpl Chris top shot of the week, winning the shoot by 3 points ahead of the O’Neill and Sig Lee Pearson have represented the unit in the next contender. LCpl Tait could not understand that he had been Shot-Put and Discus and have been picked to represent the beaten. The week finished off with a BBQ, allowing everyone to Corps in the 4 Div Athletics Championships. unwind with copious amounts of food and beverages that would have fed the whole Corps. 543 Team turned up in fancy dress, Trials Tp do have some hellos to say to Cpl Lee Pell and Sig something that is not unusual for them. Sgt ‘Chappie’ Chapman Matt Haagensen, as well as saying goodbye to Sgt Shell won the best dressed in his banana costume. Atkinson, Cpl Gordy Gordon, LCpl Bert Coates and LCpl Steven Jackson. Promotions within the Tp go to LCpl Dan It has been a busy period for the personnel in the Tp, but it has Briscoe, LCpl Chris O’Neill, LCpl Steven Jackson and Sig not been all work and no play. The Tp has been involved in Greg Heaney. Best wishes go to Sgt Chappie Chapman, Sgt various charity events on the Garrison; Sgt Paul Wade tried out Bri Milne, LCpl Dan Briscoe, LCpl Stu Tait and Sig Richie his best dolphin impression when he raised money in the Swim Pullan on the births of their sons and daughters. Congratulations for Heroes event. Capt Brian Jeffery, SSgt Jules Dolan and Cpl also go to Sgt Shell Atkinson, LCpl Dan Briscoe and Sig Greg ‘Gordy’ Gordon have also been training hard for this years Heaney on their recent nuptials. NEWS OF TRAINING

CARIBBEAN JUNIOR COMMAND AND STAFF COURSE 2010

- by Capt Ian Flannery US student, but the majority were from Jamaica. The Jamaicans were not just JDF; there were 2 Jamaican Constabulary Force, 2 As the Adjutant of one of our 6 disbanding TA Sig Regts, the end Jamaican Fire Service, 2 Prison Officers and a Coast Guard of 2009 was becoming a depressing and progressively less active Officer. A mixture of Lts and Capts, they were split into 3 time. On the verge of offering myself up to the Regional Bde HQ syndicates of 11 each and began to bond within their groups as a project officer (knowing I’d be given all the worst jobs!), out instantly. of the blue I was e-mailed a trawl for directing staff for the Caribbean staff officers’ course. The requirement was for a senior Captain or junior Major to deploy to Moneague, Jamaica for the entire course of 20 weeks, or 2 officers to complete a half each. Without hesitation I took it straight to the Training Major and CO and within a week I had support from my Regional HQ and APC to complete the first half of the duty, before onward posting to Saudi Arabia.

On 22 January I flew from Gatwick to Kingston and was met at the aircraft door by my former Chief Clerk from Colchester, who had been working for the British High Commission in Kingston for 3 years. He briefed me on the local threats and handed me a huge pile of local currency that was to sustain my weekend accommodation and ‘incidentals’. I was fast-tracked through immigration and customs and met by Sgt Crawford, the Canadian Admin NCO and driven to Up Park Camp in Kingston to meet and greet the Canadian Chief Instructor and some of the Jamaican Defence Force (JDF) personalities from the 4 major units and HQ. After my first few Red Stripes, we were 3 Syndicate conducted one of their discussion groups at ‘Lyming’ Jerk Chicken transported to Moneague, where I bedded in to my restaurant cori-mech suite and was presented with the choice of staying After 2 weeks of burst information and plenty of homework there for the weekend or moving on to ‘Breezes’ all inclusive reading, the course began to concentrate on syndicate work; lots holiday resort for 2 days of sun sea and surf – that was a short of group discussions and assignment writing. My tasks moved conversation! from presenting to mentoring and marking. In no time at all the papers were flowing in, keeping Kevron and me busy for some My first working week was for ‘reading in’ to the course. My co- late nights. Then came the bi-weekly reports, which caught us by DS included; a Canadian, a Trinidadian, a Guyanan and 2 from surprise at the end of the second week! As the course the JDF, including Maj Kevron Henry, who would be my partner progressed I could see the direct effects of my investment of time in crime as 3 Syndicate DS. Together we sampled the course in working closely with the weaker students and got a real sense material and practised marking assignments from previous of satisfaction from seeing their work improve. This culminated courses and set ourselves a common standard. We prepared for with one of our Fire Officers, who we thought would struggle to the first 2 weeks, which involved delivering numerous course complete the course, receive a ‘C+’ for his service paper (the presentations in the ‘big bedroom’ or lecture theatre. After over-arching piece of work that would largely decide the another weekend of glorious weather, scuba diving and karaoke, students’ staff grade for part one of the course). we returned to Moneague to see the students begin to arrive on the Sunday afternoon. They were a diverse bunch, with I can’t say that it was all hard work though, and the odd evening representatives from Belize, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, in the mess bar did turn into a ridiculously late night in the bars Bermuda, St Kitts and Nevis. There were also 3 Canadians and a and clubs of Ocho Rios and the ‘Thank God It’s Thursday’ parties

6 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 on alternative weeks became legendary after 3 Syndicate hosted students gave. I also managed to progress to ‘advanced diver’ in theirs, transforming the big bedroom into a dance club and what is fast becoming my favourite pastime. bussed in lots of friends to make it an unforgettable night. I was a little surprised that Canada takes such an interest in the Instructing and mentoring on this course has been fantastic for Caribbean area. CJCSC is funded and largely coordinated and my own development as a staff officer and has given me a new administrated by the Canadian Forces, who built and maintain the perspective on what will be expected when my turn comes to do College and provide the largest proportion of the course staff. the UK course! I made some great friends from many different I am hugely thankful to the Chief Instructor and all of the other countries and learned a huge amount about Western hemisphere Canadian and Jamaican Staff for making me so welcome forces from the National Perspective presentations that the throughout my 9 weeks with them. NEWS FROM THE REGIMENTS

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

CO Lt Col FE Hargreaves OBE L/Cpl Webb and Sig Madden, who, despite an accident with a RSM WO1 (RSM) K East toilet brush during the first week, made it back to Herford with both eyes intact! Finally the DCCS Instructors Cpl Bradford and HEADQUARTERS SQUADRON Cpl Smith who both excelled during the instructional phase.

OC Maj J Duncan REGIMENTAL MT SSM WO2 (SSM) C Wilson MTO Capt S Vernon REGIMENTAL TRAINING WING MTWO WO2 B Etherington

RTO Capt G Middleton April and May of 2010 witnessed the MT Tp being pushed to the SMI SSgt M Nordon limits once again. First off was the Regtl PNCO Course which saw LCpl Connon worked to the bone (for a change) for 2 PNCO CLM COURSE 04-16 APR 10 - by Sgt G Collins weeks. The course took most of the MT drivers away for driving and instructional purposes, which put a considerable strain on As a Distributed Training Centre for PNCO CLM, 1(UK) ADSR held the soldiers back in camp, especially when you consider that as its first course of 2010 over the Easter period. Despite the Easter soon as the course was finished we deployed to the Czech Bunny being in town, 16 students from across Germany formed Republic on Ex FLYING RHINO 10. Getting involved with the up in the Regt Trg Wing on Easter Sunday to complete the normal movement of vehicles and generators to the railhead then trying day 1 administration, followed by a 1.5 mile ‘streaming run’. On to get them on the train was emotional, (on the train off the train, completion, the sections were formed according to their fitness usual script). levels, ready for the course ‘proper’ to begin the next morning. The MT said goodbye to Sigs Walker and Mason as they moved After a day of lectures in the classroom, we deployed on Monday over to different sqns and Sig Stewart deployed to the Falklands, evening to HQ DTE Haltern for the remainder of the course. This to replace Sig Page who has returned after a hard 6 months not only puts the students in the correct environment to conduct penguin spotting. a CLM course, but allows the DS to constantly assess each soldier, whether they realise they are being watched or not! On On a sadder note the MT said farewell to Capt ‘Big Mick’ Jones that point, a mention must go to A/LCpl Murray, who from the the MTO who has moved to pastures new in Bielefeld. From all first morning until the final day of the course won the award for the boys in the MT we wish you and Sue all the best for the ‘Best DS Watcher’ hands down. future.

Leadership theory lessons, problem solving written assessments, We would like to take this opportunity to welcome the new MTO, command tasks and many other periods of instruction were Capt Stu Vernon who has been posted to us from the ARRC covered during the first week of the course. During the Physical Support Battalion in JHQ along with his wife Sarah, (just leave Leadership & Development (PLD) lessons, you may have been the arrivals crate in my office sir). Also newly arrived is Cpl Mick forgiven for thinking that some of the course had eaten too many Harvey, who has been posted in after spending his last Tour in Easter eggs! the UK with the TA.

The final week saw the course deploy onto the training area and And finally, everyone in the MT would like to congratulate Sig occupy a patrol base in FOB Pregel. From there the students Harrison and his wife Lesley on the arrival of their newborn conducted numerous vehicle and foot patrol scenarios, daughter Chloe in April. culminating in the ‘Battle Run’ on the Wednesday, during which CO 1(UK) ADSR visited the students. On return to Herford the FORT EBEN EMAEL - by Sig Henly course was hosted in the WOs’ & Sgts’ Mess for a luncheon, where the prizes for Top Student and Best Field Soldier went to On 11 May, the Sqn visited the fortified bunker at Eben Emael, A/LCpl Innes from 207 Sig Sqn and A/LCpl Bates from 211 Sig which was occupied by the Belgium Army during WW2. Sqn respectively. The interior of the bunker was almost like a vast maze, which one Thanks must go to 200 and 262 Sig Sqns who provided enemy, could easily get lost in. It is protected by several armoured admin staff and Section Commanders for the course, the PTI’s turrets as well as several machine gun nests. Entering into the

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 7 bunker through the main entrance we noticed that the main foyer Days 3 and 4 were the culmination of the week where we was a sealable area which had small holes in the wall through mastered the Robert and Roupell cups. Sig Emery cheered up which grenades could be posted to engage intruding forces that everyone’s day by screaming out “I can’t breathe” quickly would dare attempt to take the fortress by force. followed by the canister of his respirator flying down the firing point, this being after only 2 runs of the Roupell cup. Day 5 was Unfortunately for the occupants of Fort Eben Emael the Germans a slightly more relaxed day, spent practicing the Para Cup. Thank were able to achieve this. The attack started in the early hours of you to the Parachute Regiment for this kind donation to the the morning by landing gliders, carrying up to 11 troops in each. remainder of the British Army (someone must have laughed when One glider was shot down, however the pilot survived and was donating this to the “Hats”). Then the remainder of the day was able to get out of the glider and take out one of the machine gun spent practicing the pistol shoots. nests, which helped the Germans immensely in winning this small but important battle. The team now look forward to putting all the hard work to good effect, in the BA (G) SAAM 10. Elements of the fortress had been demolished by shellfire, however most of the fort has remained in its original condition. 201 SIGNAL SQUADRON Sadly the Belgium forces that occupied the bunker surrendered quickly, an act that was deemed dishonourable at the time and OC Maj BY-T Higgs led to these soldiers having to forfeit their pensions and gratuities SSM WO2 (SSM) CT Vickers after the war. Since returning from Op Herrick XI, 201 Sig Sqn have been occupied with the task of reforming the Sqn and settling in at our new home on Harewood Barracks. This has kept us all busy, taking over detachments, claiming ownership of stores and getting the Sqn lines up to a decent standard.

As a result of extensions to the tour we are now seeing something of a mass exodus. Among those posted out are SSgt (YofS) Gav Holloway, Cpl Joe Hewes, Cpl Rachel Turvey, Cpl Jimmy Somerville, LCpl ‘Mido’ El- Behnaiy and Sig Dave Paige. All ranks in 201 Sig Sqn wish them all the best for the future. As quickly as personnel leave, new faces are posted in. SSgt Andy Moss joins us from the Regl Trg Wing, LCpl Nelson joins us from 211 Sig Sqn and Sigs Evans, Janes, Ruffel, Powell, Green and Fagan have all arrived from Blandford. Congratulations to Sgt Stewart, who celebrates a much deserved promotion this HQ Sqn standing outside Fort Eben Emael month. REGIMENTAL SHOOTING TEAM - by Sig Parry Lanyard season is upon us again and it’s great to see Cpl ‘Paris’ On 3 May the Regtl shooting team took part in a week long range Hilton, Sig McGill, Sig Chambers and Sig Foster training hard package at Haltern range complex. Day one consisted of to represent the Sqn in the Regtl Team. grouping and zeroing and just a refresh on how best to adopt each position using the marksmanship principles. The tempo of work seems to be smoothing out now and it’s fair to say we’re all looking forward to some well deserved adventure Day 2 was a run through LF9 in the morning to gain our points of training in June and July along with the chance to get some aim for different ranges and firing positions. In the afternoon courses under our belts. LCpl Paddy Reid, LCpl Smith, Sig Connolly and Sig Parry, the teams LSW Gunners, took part in the machine gun match, which BF(G) TEAM ORIENTEERING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2010 involved sprinting up and down the 600m range (Deep Joy). - by 2Lt K Davies-Walters

The 1 (UK) ADSR Orienteering team was urgently recruited by the new orienteering OIC 2Lt Davies-Walters on 27 April. The very next day the team, consisting of, 2Lt Davies-Walters, Cpl Newman, LCpl Kudiersky, LCpl Miller, LCpl Tucker and Sig Richardson-Sherratt set off to Sennelager, only a 40 minute drive away. Two hours later the team arrived, test one – finding the event location had most certainly been failed by the whole team after we had to resort to stopping at a local Safari Park to ask for directions.

However we were not deterred and after a hearty lunch the team headed off into the woods for a quick bit of orienteering tuition from 2Lt Davies-Walters. The first day of the competition started at 1700 hrs and comprised of a Harris Relay event, where a team of three each has to collect a “spine” of controls as well as additional team controls. This is one of the most complex and complicated types of orienteering event so nerves were high as we waited at the start line. As soon as the start control had been punched the nerves disappeared and the two teams settled down and enjoyed the orienteering. Although both teams were Sgt Andy Naylor on air defence complete novices (except for 2Lt Davies-Walters), they did well

8 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 and managed to finish well within the allotted time period. Some By the end of the first week, the Div HQ was set up and comms controls were missed and time penalties gained, however for first were in and working a treat. Flying Rhino was Cormorant’s debut time orienteerers, it was a successful day. Sig Richardson- ex deployment with the unit and there were high expectations, Sherratt had an exceptional run collecting the “spine” controls which it lived up to on all counts. By the time the OSG and Div and 7 team controls in a very respectable time of 61 minutes. Staff arrived Silver HQ, NETCEN, Excon and Syscon were all Impressive considering Sig Richardson-Sherratt had never ready to roll with everything in and working. A comprehensive orienteered before. suite of BCIP 5.4 and OVERTASK applications integrated onto a Cormorant voice and data backbone connected to the RLI Day 2 of the competition was a line relay event. We were blessed through REACHER (and within theatre by a Czech military E1 link) with gorgeous weather in Sennelager and this combined with the provided the staff with an embarrassment of ICS riches over a arrival of the NAAFI wagon meant that morale was high amongst robust and efficient ICS architecture. Underpinning this were the team. Sig Richardson-Sherratt and Cpl Newman ran the additional layers of redundancy in the form of BOWMAN HF voice first legs for the 1 (UK) ADSR teams and both had good runs. and data circuits, augmented with Czech military and civil LCpl Turner and LCpl Miller ran the second legs and 2Lt landlines. The network represented a quantum leap forward from Davies-Walters and LCpl Kudiersky bought the teams safely what we achieved last year, enabling progressive and challenging home. Again a few time penalties were gained due to some staff training to be delivered as well as some groundbreaking dodgy navigation and decision making, however we were ‘firsts’ such as the use of FC BISA to automate real time live confident that neither team would gain the wooden spoon. artillery fire missions. In every respect it was a giant leap forward for the 211 Cormorant capability and another small step forward In the end 1 (UK) ADSR A and B teams came 8th and 9th towards a fully digitised Division. Mid-way through the ex the Div respectively. Although not as good as the unit’s previous success hosted a number of seriously VIP visitors – CGS, CFA and the 6th at the BA(G) Champs where they came 2nd, the teams should be Duke of Westminster to name but three – which provided an congratulated on their all round efforts and hard work over the opportunity for us to show off our achievements in a 4 star forum. two days of orienteering. Next stop (after a bit of training), the Corps Championships. All in all, the ex was probably more successful from a G6 perspective than any of us had dared to imagine… well, up until 211 SIGNAL SQUADRON the third from last day when a passing helicopter looking for a good photo opportunity flattened one of our shiny new tents. OC Maj JO Lambeth Luckily no-one was seriously injured, but by the look on Cpl SSM WO2 (SSM) JCW Baxter Bennett’s face you’d have been forgiven for thinking he’s just lost a close relative. EXERCISE FLYING RHINO 10

NAMEST AIRBASE

At a disgracefully early hour on Sunday 25 April the main party of 211 Sig Sqn were loading up the coaches ready for one last roll call before the joyous 10 hour journey to the Czech Republic for Ex FLYING RHINO, the UK’s largest Air/Land integration ex. Everyone in the main body was present, but by the looks on their faces some of the subalterns were there in ‘body’ only…..clearly a lot of effort had gone into the previous night’s charity ball in the Officers’ Mess.

So after 10 hours of sweating, leg cramps and the delights of a less than fragrant on board loo on the coach, we arrived at Armada Barracks, Namest, our somewhat basic home from home for the next four weeks. The hard work started immediately the following morning. Almost as soon as we stepped onto the airfield we could hear a familiar high pitched whining noise. Not one of the Czech Hind helicopters revving up for a sortie, but rather the all too familiar Geordie voice emanating from Cpl ‘Benny’ Bennett as he directed the build for the Silver HQ tent. The HQ went up in record time and little did we know that some Sig ‘Dobbo’ Dobbins, Sig Roberts and LCpl ‘Fergie’ Ferguson four weeks later it would be collapsed in a similarly record raising the roof breaking time, albeit in rather different circumstances, and much to Cpl Bennett’s dismay. JINCE DETACHMENT - by Cpl Chris Burley

72 hrs into the Ex and the Sqn sustained its first casualty, to a During Ex FLYING RHINO 2010 a small element of 211 Sig Sqn particularly virilous strain of Czech D & V. It would be unkind to were deployed to a remote area in the Czech Republic called mention that it was Sgt ‘Ratts’ Rattenbury who fell foul of the Jince, a Czech Army live Air and Artillery range some 30 minutes virus first, and equally unfair to mention that he was unable to drive from Prague. Our role was to provide Divisional ICS move more than 20 metres away from his own dedicated services to HQ 20 Armd Bde through Cormorant and REACHER. Portaloo for more than for 24 hrs, and for that reason he ought to Being right on the doorstep of the Czech training area and impact remain nameless….…but he hasn’t. zone for all live AS90 firing and fast air assets dropping their ordnance didn’t make it a particularly tranquil setting, but it The ex build was always going to be the most intense period of wasn’t all bad though; Prague was only 30 minutes away. work for the Sqn. With a fleet of wheeled and armoured vehicles to unload from the rail head, not to mention 12 ISO containers Team Jince, consisting of 211 Sig Sqn personnel, a 7 Sig Regt worth of equipment to unpack and a tented field cookhouse large REACHER detachment and a 22 Sig Regt J1/J4 PoP, deployed enough to get Billy Smarts going green with envy, we had a from Sennelager railhead bracing ourselves for a hefty train challenge on our hands. Fortunately the weather remained journey. You can imagine our relief to arrive in the Czech glorious throughout and other than Sig Penn’s hilariously Republic a mere 24 hrs after setting off. However this elation sunburned ears, we got the work done without major incident, was relatively short lived once we realised that there would be buying ourselves a couple of extra days to engineer in the little other than work and SSgt Tony Raby’s dart board to keep comms. us amused. At times Jince really did feel like central nowhere!

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 9 That said with all the trials and testing planned, along with the standard military syllabus, by embracing adventure training and first deployment of our new Cormorant system we couldn’t ever further education opportunities which are now available to us. describe ourselves as bored. So with all our CP duties, helpdesk Challenges lay ahead, not least adapting to the change in the and lots of MATT training we ended up smashing out long hours Sqn landscape, following the reformation of the Regt. For many over the course of the 4 weeks. Similarly there was some this would involve a change of job role, work place and even excellent phys to be had - every direction you could run went work colleagues. These will be testing times for all and the uphill, a rare treat. We mustn’t grumble though, there was Prague degree of flexibility and resilience shown by all on tour with the on the doorstep and most of us did manage to get ourselves Regt will need to be applied again. This year is a time to explore away for one ‘cultural visit’ which was particularly enjoyable and new horizons, embrace a sport of passion, and relax after a job a welcome break. well done, then return re-energised and motivated ready for the build up to our next operational tour in late 2011. In all, everyone from Team Jince had a very successful exercise, learned loads and had a thoroughly enjoyable experience with an RIMINI TROOP enormous amount of praise from 20 Armd Bde. Cheers. Tp Comd Lt R Bonner 212 SIGNAL SQUADRON SSgt SSgt L Norman

OC Maj KE Emmerson Returning from their well earned POTL, the tps can now look SSM WO2 (SSM) D Cattle forward to enhancing their career profiles by taking advantage of this period to complete courses, participate in Sqn and Regtl AT MONTE-CASSINO TROOP - by Sig Havercroft and continue the drive towards maximum participation in sporting activities. Tp Comd 2Lt M Woodman SSgt SSgt S Miners The Tp has welcomed several new arrivals; Lt Bonner, taking the chair after a move from 211 Sig Sqn, Sig Hooper joins us from After the successful completion of a 6 month tour of Afghanistan 200 Sig Sqn, Sig Lawless has joined us from Alamein Tp on Op HERRICK 11, 1 (UK) ADSR CSR returned to Herford following the Regtl reconstitution, while Sigs Parry and Frost join Station following 2 months of well deserved post operational tour us fresh from the factory that is Phase 2 training. leave. Upon returning, the soldiers of the Regt were greeted with warm words from the CO, Lt Col Hargreaves OBE, who Rimini Tp bid farewell and good luck to Cpl Duckworth and LCpl congratulated all those on a successful tour, not just those who Whitford who move on to 7 Armd Bde and 1 Mech respectively. travelled overseas, but also those who stayed behind to help with Ex FLYING RHINO and support the wives and families back While taking advantage of this time to progress with courses, the home. This year was a time to consolidate and reflect on what Tp will soon be back into the form cycle in order to support we had achieved, striving to better ourselves outside of the Helmand ICS Sig Sqn to achieve its mission.

2nd SIGNAL REGIMENT YORK

CO Lt Col AR Knott MBE commemorate the RSM WO1 (RSM) A Combe battle. Following the service As this edition of The Wire goes to print a majority of the Regt will wreaths were laid have just deployed on operations to Afghanistan. Months of at the Kohima individual and collective training covering all necessary aspects of Memorial in the military and communication skills will eventually be put to use in Minster Gardens. theatre as the Regt provides the operational and strategic communications in Helmand Province, Kandahar, Kabul and other A minute’s silence locations across the country. was then held to remember those The training regime has been intense at times with some soldiers that fell in battle having spent over 4 of the last 6 months away on courses and 66 years ago. exercises in order to prepare them for the challenges that lay The minute’s ahead. The Regt is now at full fighting strength and is as silence was prepared as it is going to be to ensure success on operations. broken by a member of the This series of notes covers the final stages of the preparation for Corps Band Op HERRICK 13 and other events that the Regt has been sounding the last involved in during the run up to deployment. post and reveille. The poignant KOHIMA DAY - by 2Lt Gormley Kohima epitaph was then read by In April 219 Sig Sqn had the honour of hosting veterans from the veteran battle of Kohima. This annual reunion commemorates the Allied commander Maj forces halting of the Japanese Army in Asia which took place Gordon Graham from April to June 1944. MC and Bar, late (From left) SSgt Rose, SSgt Morrison and The Queen’s Own SSgt Sweeney of 219 Sig Sqn at York Minster The day started with a welcoming reception for the veterans and Cameron during the Kohima Day commemoration their families at the Sgts Mess in Imphal Barracks where they Highlanders: were hosted by officers and seniors from the Sqn. Following the reception the veterans and their families were accompanied by “When you go home, tell them of us and say: ‘For Sqn members to York Minster where a service was held to your tomorrow we gave are today”

10 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 After the service the veterans and families were then invited back Overall the ex was a complete success with everybody who to Imphal Barracks for lunch, providing a great opportunity for the attended learning something new and brushing up on skills they officers and seniors from the Sqn to find out about the veterans’ hadn’t used in a while. experiences in 1944. The day served as a great reminder to the sacrifice made by British soldiers in 1944 in a battle that ultimately proved to be the turning point of the Burma campaign.

SUPPORT SQUADRON ON EXERCISE KEY STORM - by LCpl Whitmore

Souter Force Protection and Transport Company (SFPTC) and Kabul Support Unit (KSU) deployed to Swynnerton trg area in Staffordshire on Ex KEY STORM, a confirmatory training ex for the forthcoming tour of Afghanistan. The 2 week ex started with a week of lessons for KSU delivered by members of SFPTC on subjects such as cordon drills and base security.

KSU fully enjoyed the lessons and all involved said they learned a lot. However they were less impressed with LCpl Witherspoon’s casualty evacuation lesson. This had nothing to do with the quality of instruction but more to do with the practical part of the lesson and the words “see that poncho, tree and back GO!” Following months of driver and patrol training, Support Squadron are ready for deployment to Afghanistan to provide security and driver support for Whilst not instructing KSU the other members of SFPTC were British interests in Kabul brushing up on their urban patrolling skills under the watchful eye of WO2 McIlwrath, who brought along his years of Northern 219 SIGNAL SQUADRON ON EXERCISE KEY STORM Ireland experience. This was an excellent opportunity for SFPTC - by Sig Woolley to see the benefits and limitations of working in multiples on foot and soon got up to scratch with the basics of dealing with Ex KEY STORM was the final CIS ex that 219 Sig Sqn would be casualty evacuations, small arms contacts and IED finds. taking part in prior to deployment to Afghanistan. We had a lot of Although some minor mistakes occurred, including LCpl new equipment to get our hands on, particularly for the Whitmore being accused of firing 7 rounds at a “dicker” (it was Technicians and IS Engineers who had been waiting eagerly to only five), we all learned from these mistakes and in the words of get a chance to practice what they had been taught in the Maj Fleming “you learn more when it goes tits up”. classroom.

Also during this week SFPTC got a chance to work with the The main ex aim was for the Sqn to brush up on their technical Ridgeback vehicles we will be driving in Kabul and soon set training and to confirm understanding of the processes such as about learning contact drills and, after much cursing, recovery fault reporting and site reconnaissance that would be vital when drills with ropes and A frames. This was possibly the most in theatre. valuable part of the trg, especially for those in SFPTC who have yet to familiarise with Ridgeback. The focus was mainly on Promina, OTES, Avaya and Reacher, although there was also the opportunity for each trade group to On the Friday of the first week SFPTC deployed out to the UN practice their core trade skills. At the end of the first day, we building on Swynnerton training area which was to become our had built 2 medium size HQs and were well on the way to Camp Souter for two and a half days whilst KSU changed clothes reaching full operating capability. The Installation Techs had done and became the local residents of Kabul. Over this portion of the a good job of providing cross-site fibre and the infrastructure for ex the 3 multiples carried out a rotation of MT taskings, both HQs. The Operators had both Tacsat and Bowman in and patrols/QRF and base security. In these duties the multiples booming, and the Electricians had stepped in to try and solve the experienced several different scenarios including RTAs, hostile mains power problems by bringing out the FEPS. crowds and IED attacks. Again casualty evacuation featured heavily, especially in multiple two’s case who took a “No Play” Although progress was good, the Technicians were struggling to casualty when Sig Fletcher dislocated his thumb to a disgusting get the new Promina nodes fully up and working, with even WO2 angle while carrying Sig Robinson on an improvised stretcher. (FofS) Walker and the experts from 600 Sig Tp scratching their At the end of the rotations there was a spectacular attack on heads at times. However, far more was learnt from having to re- Camp Souter which included all the scenarios we had previously configure the nodes than if they had simply worked straight away. dealt with. After this it was time for a debrief and a well deserved chance to finally enjoy the scorching heat out of body armour and On the IS side, by the end of the ex LCpl Hitch and LCpl full patrol order and have a brief sit in a beer garden. Williams had managed to engineer JChat from site to site and we were given a brief as to how the application is used in theatre. The Monday of the second week saw SFPTC & KSU deploy to The ex was short and sharp but allowed everyone to get their Kingsbury ranges to carry out re-zeroing of weapons and a hands on some of the equipment used in theatre. Everyone chance for KSU to carry out their ACMTs. On the Tuesday KSU managed to gain some vital skills that will no doubt be useful as again deployed to the ranges to get to grips with the GPMG while we deploy to Afghanistan. SFPTC stayed behind to demonstrate all we had learned toComd 11 Sig Bde, Brig Hill. Each multiple demonstrated a different EXERCISE KHUKURI PRAGATI - by Sig Sanjeep Rai aspect of the training we had undertaken and Brig Hill was very impressed with the way we had got to grips with fairly complex Ex KHUKURI PRAGATI was a cadre course designed to test the tasks. leadership ability of all Signallers within the 246 Gurkha Sig Sqn in order to develop their confidence for PNCO and other future The remainder of the week was taken up with a mixture of LMG, courses. This was conducted over the period 28 - 29 April in GPMG and pistol ranges and other training such as Op BARMA Imphal Barracks and Strensall Training Area. The main aim of this and vehicle and personal searches, which included LCpl Smith ex was to provide challenging and demanding competition for hiding a smoke grenade in a place best not mentioned in polite Signallers in order to test their leadership and potential to be a company. JNCO.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 11 Twenty four combative Sigs and 7 DS were involved on this Not only did the team perform extremely well, but a number of arduous ex led by Sgt Devprakash under the direction of the individuals stood out and earned a number of achievements. OC, Maj Dagless and the SSM WO2 (SSM) Som Chochangi. These include: Best Young Soldier - Sig Plumb, Best Class B - The ex was conducted in 2 phases. Phase one was based on Sig Brindan, Overall Rifle Championship Runner-up - Sgt Dev, indoor activities and phase 2 outdoor. The first phase was and All Arms Championship Winner - Sgt Dev amongst many designed to assess students intelligence and skills and was other titles won. tested through group discussions on current affairs, presentations and essay writing. This part of the ex created a lot of pressure as Achieving the accolade of Overall Unit Champion RSOSC 2010 not many of us had delivered presentations in front of officers was the biggest reward. No doubt the CO will welcome all the before. silver that we have won back into his Regt.

The second phase was a physically demanding competition based on basic soldiering skills. It was planned to assess soldiers’ professionalism in low level tactics and command tasks. We were grouped into 3 sections and everyone was given an opportunity to be SectComd or 2IC so that leadership skills could be assessed and coached. At the very end of the exercise PLD (Practical Leadership Development) was conducted by PTI Cpl Uttam. One Section won the competition but everyone had given their best efforts and all sections had showed their determination and strong teamwork throughout.

The 2 Sig Regt Shooting Team with Brig Hill, Comd 11 Sig Bde and Capt Purna, 2IC 246 Gurkha Sig Sqn proudly display their trophies

What a brilliant and highly remarkable start of 2010 it has been for the 2 Sig Regt’s Shooting Team. The team is already looking forward to taking part in the upcoming Army Operational Shooting Competition (AOSC) 2010 where similar success is hoped for.

EXERCISE CHIMERA STRIKE 2 - by LCpl Franklin

In April 219 Sig Sqn on Ex CHIMERA STRIKE 2, with the mission Sig Sanjeep leading his Section during a burden retrieval test of further readying soldiers for deployment on Op HERRICK 13. The ex was a week long and was based in Catterick and Feldom On Friday afternoon the SSM paraded the whole Sqn outside Training Areas. The main focus was on familiarisation and SHQ and Maj Dagless announced the results of the individual training on various comms equipment including JOCS, J1/J4, competition: LANs, BOWMAN, TACSAT, LWRN and REACHER systems.

Overall Champion Sig Sanjeep The ex also included a theatre-specific military skills phase, Overall Second Sig Ockleford familiarising soldiers with the important skills needed to survive in Overall Third Sig Navin and Sig Santanu Afghanistan, including Op BARMA, Op KALA, FOB sentry drills, and the setting up of an emergency HLS. It was a significant moment in my life to be declared the winner. My thanks go to Sgt Dev and all of the DS who organised an It was a chance for soldiers from all trade sets to acquaint excellent exercise in which we all learnt a huge amount about themselves with the jobs of other trades, from cable terminating basic soldiering skills and leadership in the field. to setting up equipment, and understanding the basic workings of shift work within the different types of environment we will deploy OPERATIONAL SHOOTING CHAMPIONS 2010 to. - by LCpl Naresh Khapung The ex also included a MATTS and range package, including The Royal Signals Operational Shooting Competition (RSOSC) ACMT, IBSR GPMG and Grenade ranges. Overall the ex gave the 2010 took place over the period of 19 – 23 April at Pirbright Sqn a good look at life working from FOB conditions and the lads Ranges. Even though 2 Sig Regt is currently busy preparing to all got a good idea of what will be expected of them when they deploy on operations it was still able to put forward a ‘scratch go out to theatre. team’. EXERCISE KEY PINNACLE - by LCpl Sujan Thapa The Regtl Shooting Team managed to deploy under its Team Captain Sgt Devprakash Gurung for the competition. The team Over the last few months the Regt has been exceptionally busy comprised of Class A: Sgt Dev, LCpl Suraj and Sig Lal. Class B: conducting pre-deployment training. Despite the current tempo LCpl Sanjay, LCpl Naresh, Sig Bijay, Sig Brindan, Sig Bipen, at the unit, Cpl Patterson managed to find a small window in the Sig Kabin and Sig Santosh, and a young soldier Sig Plumb. trg programme and put together a plan for some adventurous trg. Ex KEY PINNACLE was a high risk and challenging expedition to Unlike previous years, we only had a week of training to get ready Scotland over the period 3 April to 7 May. The main aim was to for the event. Despite this the trg was very valuable; partly due to climb Inaccessible Pinnacle which is on the top of Sgurr Dearg the brilliant summer weather and because we were able to mountain on the Isle of Skye. The expedition also included hill practice on competition specific ranges. Despite the lack of trg walking in Cairngorms and Benin Eighe. and a few nerves, the team started to perform very well from the start. There were a few ups and downs during the course of the The ex gave both novice and experienced mountaineers the week-long competition but we managed to keep ourselves clear perfect opportunity to test and advance their skills and push them off our nearest rivals, winning numerous trophies along the way. beyond their comfort zone.

12 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 The AT was in the form of a multi-activity package consisting of permanent anchor sited at the summit which made abseiling hill walking led by WO1 (RSM) Combe, SSgt Sweeney and Cpl easier and safer. Overall the climbing was challenging for Patterson and rock climbing under WO2 (QMSI) Maddox and everyone involved, from Sig Santeshor overcoming being upside LCpl Sujan. After completing a 3 day recce for both the hill down whilst abseiling to some people who were scared of walking and rock climbing we waited for the main party. heights.

The main party was divided into 3 groups, executing each event The next day CO saheb Lt Col Knott joined us and helped in turn on a round robin basis. That evening I took one group to people on climbing by encouraging them and boosting their Balmacara house on the Isle of Skye which was another one and morale. On the final day we went back to Inverness and joined half hours drive away. When we got there the QMSI was already up with the rest of the group. The evening finished with the there to welcome us. We all sat round for a briefing about the handover of kit and followed by a night out in Inverness. route and then started preparation for the next day’s event. I also showed them quick snaps of Inaccessible Pinnacle which I had Being in the Army I think AT plays a vital role both for training and taken earlier on our recce. morale. Overcoming fears is something that AT provides an excellent opportunity for people to try and do. I personally We set out early and hit the road towards the Isle of Skye. Our gained loads of experience on rock climbing and hill walking and day started from Glen Brittle, walking uphill which took us almost hope each individual got some new experience from it. two and half hours. The route consisted of easy scrambling and some shaky legs paths but when we reached the top people A big thank you must go to Cpl Patterson who organised the seemed to forget their pain. exercise so smoothly and safely. I should also not forget to mention WO2 (QMSI) Maddox who helped us to stay out of the The Inaccessible Pinnacle is a climb of 50 metres involving two cold and managed to find us accommodation in Balmacara ropes and abseiling on the west side. There was also already a house on the Isle of Skye.

3rd (UNITED KINGDOM) DIVISION HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL REGIMENT BULFORD

CO Lt Col G Wilson team qualified for all of their heats ready for day 2, both male and RSM WO1 (RSM) AC Torrington female teams where in a great position to finish in the top 3 teams. Sig Steadman, although leading the 400m hurdles until MORRISON CUP 2010 - by SSgt Durrans the last hurdle, after falling over he picked him self up determined to still win but his legs gave away from him once again but finally On returning from Easter leave the Regt set about trying to finished 3rd. During the second day the Regt were battling for establish its athletics squads for the Morrison Cup. The team the lead position against 11 Sig Regt, great team spirit was manager and coach Capt Porter and his the team captains come shown and the performances including pulled muscles and sadly coaches SSgt Durrans and Cpl Gunn started to trawl the Regt LCpl Sutton AGC breaking her foot in the 100m hurdles on route for talent and, like all Regts, with the Unit commencing its proved the effort and determination which was put in by all. By preparations for deployment on Op HERRICK in Jan 11, the the end of the event waiting for the results the Regt showed that number of personnel available to due to Special to Arms training even with limited training it still had the ability and talent to courses and the competition with the other well established compete with the best in the Corps to pick up runners up sports meant forming a squad of almost 40 personnel was going position in both male and female teams. to be a challenge. The previous records were trawled and the Tp Comds and QMSI were consulted to try and establish the known SUPPORT SQUADRON talent. Unfortunately, the normal Inter Sqn athletics competition, a precursor for finding the Regts talent, gave way to the forecast OC Maj DG Skimming of events and commitments. Never the less, even though the SSM WO2 (SSM) Darby local track at Tidworth was going to be out of use for the period leading up to the event, we started to conduct training, slowly It has been a busy time of late for Sp Sqn as we have just pulling the talent from all the other Unit sports teams on the way. transitioned into MST 1 prior to deployment on Op HERRICK 13. The troops are realising that their fundamental basic soldering skills are not yet perfect. However the SSM has a plan up his sleeve to ensure that all his troops are fully prepared to take on the future exercises that have been planned by the Regtl Trg Wing which will be conducted in MST 2 towards the later end of the year.

SP SQN ADVENTURE TRAINING - by LCpl Tim Jones

We got off to a great start by filling our minibus with mostly Souter Tp and then turning the wrong way out of camp and up the A303 adding an extra 15 mins to our restricted minibus journey of 9 hours. Most of us had finished our packed lunches before even reaching the Swindon M4 junction so we stopped at Morrison Cup athletes a couple of service stations on the way to fill up on Burger King and buy neck cushions because the The big 2 days arrived with the short trip to Blandford, the team minibus was so uncomfortable. Travelling through the valleys of started off slow, but come lunchtime on the first day the team North Wales we all realised that we were heading for the back were set ready to turn the tables. The female team showed great end of nowhere. Upon arrival at Capel Curig we all realised that promise as they started to pick up 1st and 2nd places. The male the camp wasn’t that bad at all, it looked more like Butlins than a

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 13 military camp, until you went into the rooms and it was all bunks We got woken up early in the morning to give the block a dig out and lockers. After about 6 hours we had the place smelling of and pack all our gear away. Then it was back into the fun bus for bodies and feet so it probably felt like home for some of the guys. the journey back to Bulford. One last job of cleaning the fun bus then we were finished for the week. We were split down into 3 groups and had a briefing on the activities we would be doing throughout the week. These were to SOUTER FORCE PROTECTION TROOP be; rock climbing, mountain biking and everyone’s favourite, hill walking which was more like mountain climbing. That evening OC Lt Hick was filled with volleyball and some climbing on the outdoor wall Tp SSgt SSgt Palin on camp. My group’s first activity of the week was to be mountain biking. We set off in the fun bus with our helmets and On Monday 26 April Souter Tp set of for the south of Wales for kit for the day. We arrived at the bottom of a mountain and got their first adventure training as a newly formed tp. There was a told we had to ride up the thing before we came down it! We feeling of anticipation overcoming us after a 6 hour journey along spent the next couple of hours pedalling up the tracks and then the scenic route thanks to a cheap sat-nav, but we still arrived in going onto more technical single track to get a good feel for what high spirits. mountain biking was really like. The day was finally over, after a few minor falls. a snapped chain, and a lot of sore bums. I then In true ex fashion, the weather started with thick fog and a biting purchased some t-shirts because I only packed 2 for the whole chill in the air. We soon split into the first activities of the day an week! I wanted to fit in with the AT ‘look’ so I picked up a North arduous days worth of sea kayaking for those lucky few who Face t-shirt so I could wear it in the cookhouse and pretend I did “volunteered” and rock climbing where we watched the amazing extreme sports. coastline as the fog slowly disappeared from the cliff faces. Whilst waiting for the ropes to be set up we explored the Our second day was to be hill walking. Our group was split into surrounding cliff face commenting on the old fossils we could see two and we both went our different ways. On looking up you in the rocks. The climbs proved tricky and a strain on even the could not see the tops of the hills due to the clag covering experienced climbers. everything, talk about a morale boost! I took the first leg leading us up into the grey cloud and to the top of the first peak. The The next day began with an overcast sky but we grew hopeful of slog up to the top was a hard one and even though it was pretty a sunny trip on the powerboat, or for those less fortunate to have cold and wet we were soon down to T-shirts. We had a quick their name selected from the hat, a day surf kayaking! My group break at the top and carried on over the top of the next peak had a fun time jumping into wetsuits at the nearest car park while chatting to some mountain goats on the way. The half way point the local old dears watched on trying to catch a glimpse of skin. was at a pub for some lunch and a cup of tea. We met with the After a quick brief on surf technique in a closed cockpit kayak we second group and laughed at them because of the hill that we headed into the messy surf (cue beach boys music). A dozen had just come down, they had to climb. After lunch we set off up capsizes later we decided to grab some sit-on top kayaks which the other side of the valley and across the top into even more proved to be a lot better at surfing. clouds. We were promised a good view at the top down onto the lakes but, as before, all we could see was cloud. We finished off Finally, early on Thursday we headed back to Bulford. This was that day’s activity in an overly priced cafe eating cake and indeed an excellent opportunity and worthwhile for everybody to drinking tea. be away from the daily in-barracks routine and to get involved in various outdoor activities as well as promoting troop bonding. A On returning back to camp a BBQ had been organised so we all much enjoyed time by all. had a few burgers and bratty’s. Most people had a few beers but as I was on fire piquet in the evening I couldn’t have a drink. Fire 202 SIGNAL SQUADRON piquet for me involved sitting in the guard room between 2300 and 0130 to cover the MPGS guy on his break! OC Major M Parke SSM WO2 (SSM) J Thisby Our last day was to be rock climbing in an old warehouse. We had to go indoors due to the rain the night before making the The Sqn is currently going through a very busy period in rocks too wet to climb. The morning was spent doing some preparation for deployment to Afghanistan in Jan 11. With all the ‘bouldering’ and then onto climbing the big walls in the main current commitments and Special to Arms Training, Sqn parades room of the climbing centre. We all had a few climbs each with often only number in the tens. That said, preparations are going some of the guys timing themselves to see who could get to the well. The Sqn is nearly manned to 100% and the team are now top the quickest. Our last night was spent in Bangor for a few fully in the Operational mindset. The Sqn would like to drinks with the local population of student nurses. The best thing welcome Capt Rob Harris to the newly established position of about the place was the student prices of a quid for a drink! Ops Offr and WO2 Chaz Charnley in to the long gapped post of YofS.

SANDPIPER - by FofS Dobson

Elements of 202 Sig Sqn were nominated to fill key roles to form the Project SANDPIPER team, the new bearer system for the 16 Bde FTX in July. Soldiers from 202 have been involved in the projects architectural designs, testing, configuration and delivering cascade training to 258 Sig Sqn, 2 Sig Regt and 21 Sig Regt and a few soldiers from 3 Cdo Bde, all of which were above and beyond their usual day to day activities. WO2 (FofS) Dobson and his team consisting of Sgts Steve Purvis and Loz Howarth and Cpls Chris Charnock and ‘Deano’ Deans have spent much of their time on SPTA conducting feasibility tests of RADWin radios and the Plains fixed infrastructure.

OTES and Server capability for the project is being delivered by Sgt Sean Robson and LCpl Healy who have had to endure living all over the country for short periods of time, much to the dismay of their wives and Tp staff. Cpls McLeod and McIllorum have Making climbing look good! spent 4 weeks in sunny Blandford learning the VoIP and Router

14 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 configurations under the direction of CSD Nets prior to moving up Our illustrious leader, Capt Cox, who 3 hours earlier had returned to West Down Camp. from the Corps dinner, selected the teams in the car park with our more experienced players making up the ‘A’ Team, and the old So far the project is going well and is to schedule and budget knackers and newbies, led by the Provo Sgt Sgt Annetts making (nearly). The whole Sqn is now concentrating on the deployment up the ‘B’ Team. phase once the cascade training has been completed. The A Team got off to a good start with convincing wins over 10 4th DIVISION OSC 2010 - by LCpl Thompson Sig Regt, 30 Sig Regt and 11 Sig Regt B Team amongst others. The B Team however were more shaky and despite losing to 1 Tuesday morning was a 0700 start for the shooting team. We ADSR put in a reasonable performance to blow the cobwebs arrived at the ranges at about 0745 and went straight to the away and get us all in the right mindset for our next match zeroing range where there was already a queue as everyone against 18 Sig Regt, who blew us away as did 21 Sig Regt and wanted to ‘just make sure’ with a check zero. The first day was a the 11 Sig Regt A Team. However, despite our inexperience day to get ourselves ready for the rest of the weeks shooting morale remained high and we fought tooth and nail to the end in AND after a few hours getting our rifles zeroed we went onto the every game! practice shoots. The first one we arrived at was the Roupel Cup and after we finished the shoot we moved down to the next range The A team started well in the cup semi final against 11 Sig Regt which was the Roberts Cup. Unfortunately we didn’t get to A Team with Sgt Andy Ackers going over with a great catch and complete this shoot or the Whittaker Trophy (Moving Targets) as it drive. However they were narrowly beaten with a couple of late was 1300 and there were three details ahead of us with the tries. The B Team, despite the heavy losses earlier, reorganised shooting due to finish at 1400. However we decided to watch for the Plate semi-final against 11 Sig Regt B Team but were both shoots to assist us in learning them. narrowly massacred.

Wednesday was a later start which was a bit of a bonus. We Losses aside, a great day was had by all. The injury list was arrived at the ranges and got ourselves ready for the shoots by high; Sig Briggs – head, LCpl ‘Mac’ McKay – hand, LCpl collimating and preparing our rifles while talking through the ‘Benjy’ Benjamin – jaw, SSgt ‘Guido’ Giddens – entire body!!, shoot. Today we had 2 shoots, the Roberts Cup and the but we can hold our heads high when the neck and back pains Whittaker Trophy. All in all it was a good days shooting and finally subside. SSgt Giddens has definitely now retired from highly enjoyable. It was clear that some teams had found a lot rugby. more time than others to prepare and this was borne out in the result.

Thursday consisted of 2 shoots, the Para Cup which involved everyone on the team and the Machine Gun match for the 2 lucky LSW gunners, namely LCpl Gray and LCpl Sampson. The Para Cup was first, which involved a casualty extraction and a great deal of movement along our lanes. The LSW gunners then had their MG match to contend with pepper potting along their lanes and at one stage having to run 100m and fire 16 rounds at the target in 30seconds, which was no mean feat. All in all it was ‘a bit of a lick out’ all with 7.5kg in our webbing, wearing body armour and helmets!

The final competition day was Friday where we completed the Roupel Cup before 0900, with all of our firers performing particularly well. It was then on to the Falling Plates match, which is an extremely competitive ‘knock-out’ competition. It involves running 100m with your helmet and rifle and engaging ten targets as quick as possible. Each Regt enters a team of 4, usually the four best shots. Our team was 2Lt Bryant, Cpl Cook, LCpl Gray and Cfn Silvera. Our team made it through the first 3 DSR B Team – Rugby elite! stage but were knocked out at the next round. 206 SIGNAL SQUADRON After the shooting finished we gave our rifles a good clean and made our way over to the prize giving. Once the prize giving OC Maj LC Westerman finally started there was no surprise to find that the Ghurkha’s SSM WO2 (SSM) M Witham pretty much won everything. LCpl Gray came 8th out of all the LSW Gunners in the Machine Gun match and 2Lt Bryant may Congratulations to the OC who has been selected for promotion. have picked up some silverware if he hadn’t scored lower than A huge well done from the Sqn! half of the average on his first shoot!! Overall our team didn’t do too badly considering our Regtl tempo had made it difficult to BCIP 5.4 - by Sig Stephens conduct as much training as we would have liked. All in all the team had a thoroughly enjoyable week and had learned a lot. The Bowman uplift for 206 Sig Sqn started in March when the Hopefully now we can follow the team captains ‘3 year plan’; get Sqn sent its radios and terminals to Ashchurch to be uplifted from some time on the ranges, do better next year and hopefully bring 4f to the latest version of 5.4. Easter leave had started and the home some silverware for the mighty Iron Division! Bowman was returned but rapidly needed to be fitted back in the detachments for the Sqn to be trained by the Bowtag team. 3DSR CORPS RUGBY 7’s – 12 MAY 2010 - by SSgt Giddens The 5.4 course was two weeks long and started like all courses with an opening brief. It was the quickest I’ve ever sat in but 0700 Wed 12 May we set off in 2 full minibuses to Blandford for provided an overview on what Bowman used to be like and the the Corps Rugby 7’s. It had been a tough ask to find 20 players changes it has now. For starters, the UDTs are touch screen. to field 2 teams given the current tempo of the Regt but 2 teams This is perfect for a guy like me with sausage fingers! The we entered with a mixture of experience from Cpl ‘Batesy’ Bates processors in the terminals are larger, which means initializing is (Corps level) to 2Lt Bryant who, up until training the week before, twice as quick. Before you could return from NAAFI break and had never even picked the oval ball up. find the terminal was still logging on!

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 15 Over the first week we all got hands on the Bowman manpack leader and Capt McMillan as our 2IC. The event started at radios and had tasks to complete with the kit. Cpl Burgess, the 2100hrs Thursday evening and was to take place overnight, Tp’s ‘future Yeoman’ helped to give everyone who was struggling finishing sometime the next afternoon. We decided to split a push in the right direction. In the second week the Sqn’s fleet ourselves into two teams and complete 20 laps each before was outside in the blazing heat. Here we learnt to initialise the swapping with the next team. LCpl ‘Wardy’ Ward started off BNAU’s and start up Combat. There was also a multi guess final which put us in good stead for the event. SSgt Parkinson test paper which everyone successfully passed. started off extremely quickly, having reached the 200m point she soon slowed down and the team had some doubts that she Now that 206 Sqn has been uplifted and trained on 5.4 we ae would complete the lap! After having a quick snack of pasta currently on a 2 week PACEX in preparation for Ex RED TRICORN during the evening Sig ‘Reidy ‘ Reid misjudged how big his 10/2. We’re looking forward to see how the Bowman will work stomach was and promptly decided to ‘feed the birds’. The alongside the Cormorant that has recently been received from 2 event would not have run smoothly without the assistance of Sig Regt. SSgt (SQMS) Nat Butler and LCpl Sophie Potter who were on hand to feed us with chocolate bars and juice throughout the 17 CORMORANT - by Cpl ‘Cooky’ Cook hours it took to complete. Overall the event was a success as we all completed our 50 laps with no injuries although we were all With the formation of the new Campaign Signal Regiment, 206 walking like old men by the end. Sig Sqn was tasked to take on both the 3 (UK) Div Fwd HQ and the 3 (UK) Div Main HQ. With the new formation came 258 SIGNAL SQUADRON Cormorant which arrived from 2 Sig Regt, and Mons Tp were the ones relied upon to provide the strategic level comms for the Iron OC Maj JR Knight MBE Division. It would be an understatement to say Mons Tp had a SSM WO2 (SSM)R Smith busy couple of months preparing for the arrival as lots of changes to manning and garage layout were required. Many of the new This has been a busy period for the Sqn as we left our old role as Tp immediately attended Cormorant courses and quickly had to an independent Bde Sig Sqn and became a sub-unit of 3 (UK) Div adjust to the new way of life. Straight after the arrival came the Sig Regt. This has occurred as we have been busy conducting dreaded CES and all the det comds proceeded to check the Mission Specific Training 1 in preparation for Op HERRICK 14. In vehicles. Many hours were spent testing the new equipment and addition, there are 22 members currently deployed on Op checking for missing and damaged items. The superb support HERRICK 12 with 204 Sig Sqn and the RLD’s. Along with from USSO, based at Blandford, and EADS, the civilian commitments to the HQ in Edinburgh and Brockdale at contractors, was priceless and our sincere gratitude goes out to Ashchurch, the Sqn has certainly been spread to the 4 winds but those that helped. However the testing brought out many faults there have still been plenty of opportunities for military training, and resulted in hours spent searching to resolve such issues. sport and AT. One of the Dets even managed to catch fire when it’s UPS decided to catch fire. This caused obvious panic and confusion BRIGADE DISBANDMENT PARADE and sent everyone scurrying for cover. The fire was thankfully contained without causing too much damage, but brought bigger The disbandment parade for 52 Inf Bde was marked by a Beating problems to the attention of FofS Burnham as it turned out the the Retreat, held in Edinburgh Castle. The last responsibility for majority of the UPS’ had similar issues. Everyone was aware that the Sqn was to ensure the smooth running of the ceremony. Cpl Baseline preparation followed by a PACEX was required before Ritchie, LCpl Hardie and Sig Campbell were burdened with the the inaugural deployment of Cormorant on Ex RED TRICORN. responsibility of ensuring that Commander Field Army, Lt Gen The pace was cranked up in order to keep to these deadlines and White-Spunner CBE and GOC 1st (UK) Armd Div, Maj Gen the hours spent in the garages were well appreciated by all the Bradshaw CB OBE and a fashionably late Brig Lawrence MBE Sqn. With everything in place and all the kit in working order were collected and dropped off. The event started in the Great Mons Tp were ready to deploy and joined up with the rest of the Hall, where Col Vandeleur delivered the opening address which Sqn to set off on the task at hand. was closely followed by the GOC’s commemorative speech. All personnel then moved outside into the courtyard to watch the military bands display. After an impressive finale and with several individuals suffering from hyperthermia, the night came to a very successful close. The members of the Sqn quickly made a move to the Royal Mile to ‘warm up’; 52 Inf Bde was no more, leaving Sgt Nessling and his team to drawdown and pack up the remnants of the HQ.

MERCURY 500 - by LCpl Gary Eland

When you hear the title, what does it mean to you - not much? To be honest, it didn’t mean that much to our team before the competition. However, now it’s a totally different matter. Firstly, let me tell you what the competition is all about. Five hundred laps of a 400m track; completed by a team of ten and carrying a Bergen weighing 30lbs.

We had a very good training programme before the competition with one of the last training sessions being ten laps of a 400m Sig Chambers mastering Comms track where we were averaging 1 minute 40 seconds and all of the team did the session with ease, thinking the competition was MERCURY 500 - by Sig Pittam going to be a breeze.

Mercury 500 was a charity endurance event held at Blandford, It was the start at 9 o’clock at night and the team were raring to with all the locations in the world the running track was deemed go. Our first man, LCpl ‘Ches’ MacDonald stepped up to the the best!! Hopefully this meant no-one would get lost, although start line, the horn blew, and he was neck and neck with 209 Sig we had to keep a close eye on Capt McMillan. 206 Sig Sqn Sqn all the way round managing a 1.09 lap. Then I was up for my entered a team of 10 who were ‘voluntold’ to take part. The first lap and because we were level with 209, I knew I was going event consisted of 50 laps around the track per team member to have to put in a good lap. I managed to get us into the lead carrying 30lbs, with WO2 (SSM) Matt Witham as our illustrious and pull out a 1:11 lap. Bearing in mind that in training we were

16 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 all running 1:40 laps, we were going a lot faster than before. We the troops and have a quick cup of tea with biscuits before managed to keep a really good pace all the way through until heading off for the OC’s brief. After the brief, the SOinC was about the 200th lap. By this point we had a massive lead over all brought to FOB Gamecock (IS Cell). It was here that I gave an of the other competing teams. Then our times started to slip, the introduction to the various technologies, databases and rapid start had begun to take its toll, however they had only applications that are currently being used out in theatre. This slipped to 1:30 laps. There were a lot of different tactics being included a looped video feed of a UAV (Unmanned Airborne used and ours was one lap on, 9 laps rest, and we were to Vehicle). The SOinC(A) was keen to exploit the interoperability of complete the whole competition using this tactic. IT systems in particular coalition systems and the ability of data exchange. Other applications that were on show were CIDNE By the 350th lap the team were exhausted, morale was at an all and a JChat equivalent as well as some BOWMAN PDTs which time low and no-one seemed to have anything left in them. We added to the overall FOB effect. Sgt Watts and Sig Francis still had a massive lead so we knew that we could all take a few provided some light entertainment using the JChat facility utilising extra seconds on our laps. At around the 400th lap the team IC, 2 webcams interconnected between 2 offices. SSgt Paul Chamberlain, went into the admin tent to check up on our times and at that point realized that we could beat the record After a final coffee with the OC, the SOinC departed, leaving as long as we kept our times under 1:40. The team were behind his 3 pronged message: - Skills, Friends and Standards. determined to beat the record, although at this point our bodies and minds were exhausted. We had to put everything we had EXERCISE BEARS PROWL - by Sig Sheard into every lap and we were all eating Haribo and drinking lemonade just for a bit of energy. On Mon 17 May, the Sqn paraded at the armoury to draw weapons for a week of dry training. This was to refresh us on our At the beginning of the competition all the teams were very basic skills in preparation for the upcoming range package, where competitive, however at this point in the race everyone was just we would conduct LFTT. After the formalities of safety briefs and cheering us on, even when we were overtaking them. The sun weapon handling tests, we headed off to the Windbreaks for was now up and the competition was close to an end. 258 had some fun and games. just one lap each left to complete and every team member put in a blinding effort, getting 1:25 laps over 12 hours into the The initial training focussed on important objectives such as competition. Every team was cheering us on from the sidelines casualty extraction, Op BARMA and vehicle convoy drills, the and people were already coming over to congratulate us on what highlight being Cpl ‘Scotty’ Corsor displaying his artistic nature we were about to accomplish. constructing “Vallon” out of cam spreaders, cam poles and a liberal dose of green tape. After the initial training and practising, Finishing our last laps was the best feeling in the world. When we were thrown in at the deep end with vehicles, patrol routes our last man had crossed the line and finished the competition for and a plentiful supply of blank ammunition. We were to patrol, us, the team dived on top of him. We had beaten the record by 6 come under contact and withdraw as the first vehicle was hit by minutes and got a finishing time of 13h 02min. None of the team an IED. For some reason, Sgt Jimmy Bond decided this wasn’t realized how hard Mercury 500 was going to be, but we all enough, throwing in multiple casualties as well. As the DS were definitely realize now. fond of reminding us, “targets WILL fall when hit!”

On the final day we completed weapon training on GPMG and pistol, before the joy of several hours rifle cleaning and an inspirational speech from WO2 (SSM) Rob Smith. The week was very productive and equipped us well for the scenarios on the range package at Lydd and Hythe.

EXERCISE BEARS SHOT - by LCpls Hutton and Jackson

A well planned live firing package, led by SSgt Ross Gleave, was organised for the Sqn to prepare them for the forthcoming deployment in 2011. The troops gathered on the square in the early hours of Sun 23 May, abandoning any prospect of a lie-in. A boost to morale came in the form of the 1960s style coach, lacking the basics such as air conditioning for our trip to St Martin’s Plain Camp on the hottest day of the year so far.

The first day was a straightforward grouping and zeroing The mighty 258!!! practice followed by the ACMT, where a few standout marksmen came to the fore. In particular, Cpl ‘Commando SOinC(A) VISIT - by SSgt Medcraft Ken’ Lawson went for a record-breaking 22 attempts over the next two days, followed by Sgt ‘Deadeye’ Knowles who also I had only been in the unit for a week and then it hit me! I had took an obscene number of attempts and quantity of ammunition that sense of realisation that I was posted to a unit that was not to pass a basic test! As the week progressed we enjoyed a only due to deploy on Ops but that my time with 258 Sig Sqn variety of shoots ranging from FOB defence and top cover to was certainly going to be busy. IBSR and GPMG. As the weekend drew in, a change to dry training was adopted for vehicle anti-ambush drills. Cpl ‘Bish’ This became evident when after a week had passed I was tasked Bishop was glad of this change as he failed to tell his left from with getting my guys to change the IS Cell from an IT suite used right, and ended up in a Mexican standoff across the bonnet with for training individuals on the intricacies of JOCS as well as other his vehicle commander, Cpl ‘Cheshire’ Bibby. applications into a Forward Operating Base similar to that seen in Afghanistan. I was not the only individual that had been given As the package drew to a close, competition for the Best Shot such taskings as other members of the Sqn were also assigned was still up for grabs, with half a dozen people in the running. In projects in order to prepare for the forthcoming SOinC(A)’s visit. the end the spoils went to Cpl Nige Foulkes, with Sig ‘Lofty’ Given that the Sqn had recently re-rolled from a Bde Sig Sqn into Loftus taking Best Individual and Sig Dave Bowie Most a part of the new Campaign Sig Regt, there was a lot to explain. Improved Soldier. On behalf of the Sqn, we would like to thank First stop were the garages where all the BOWMAN vehicles and SSgt Gleave and the team who organised such an enjoyable crews were on show giving Brig Flint an opportunity to chat to package, and the weather for the fact that it only rained twice!

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 17 7th SIGNAL REGIMENT ELMPT

CO Lt Col A Long and games were foregone! Additional entertainment was provided RSM WO1 (RSM) R Heynes in the form of a local band, “The Duty Rumour”, consisting of Capt Tom Robinson, Sgt Dawn Bailey and Sig Ben Taylor. The ANZAC DAY 2010 - by Sig Ben Taylor band performed two sets during the afternoon keeping the crowd suitably entertained. In keeping with tradition, 25 April 2010 saw 7 Sig Regt commemorate ANZAC Day, a day of remembrance for Australian ANZAC Day is a day for remembrance and reflection however in & New Zealand Army Corps that fought and fell in Gallipoli during line with Australian tradition it is also a day for fun and festivity, World War One. both of which were certainly achieved in our celebrations this year. All in all it was a thoroughly enjoyable day for all who The day began at 0500 with “gunfire” (a concoction of tea mixed attended. with rum), followed by a service held in ANZAC Cove with each soldier being given a candle to read the song sheets as first light NAAFI BRUGGEN 10 MILE ROAD RACE - by Lt Craig Tee did not appear for some time! Wreaths were then laid, with our Australian Exchange NCO, Cpl Mike Farber laying the first One of the recent highlights for the Regt was the hosting of the wreath for the Australian Army, followed by Sig Hurdus (the annual Bruggen 10 mile road race which takes place here on youngest soldier in the Regt) representing the New Zealand Army, Elmpt Station. The day was full of activities laid on for families and finally Comd 1 Sig Bde, Brig Hooper, laying the wreath for and children, as well as a number of races for people of all ages the British Army. and abilities who were not up to the challenge of running the full 10 miles! The day was about more than just simply running; a Speeches were then given by various personalities, including fete full of stalls and stands also added to the entertainment, in Father Pascal Hanrahan, who lead the service. The Regt was particular the dunk tank where senior members of staff then treated to breakfast which lead into a morning of Aussie- volunteered to sit in a pool of water and have people throw themed games such as “Shrimp on the Barbie”! Moving into the sponges at a bucket to soak them. Special note goes to Capt afternoon the Regt and their families were invited to the fun day Dale Taft who took one for the team on the tank and spent 20 on Archie’s field. Games throughout the day including the minutes sitting in freezing cold water. Whilst all this was traditional Australian game of ‘two up’ and also bucking bronco, happening the shorter races for children were taking place, and and sumo wrestling. all the station families were showing fantastic support for children of all age groups competing in their respective races.

The main event for the day was the 10 mile road race which lined up at 1400 hrs on the runway. The favourite to win the race was the station’s dentist Capt Tony ‘Aussie’ Craig, our Australian exchange Officer currently attached on Ex LONGLOOK. There was a strong representation from across the Regt and wider station competing in the event as well as many people from Holland and Germany. Military Units travelled from far and wide to compete, in particular a large number of RAF units travelled from the UK in order to participate in the race that first began when Elmpt was an RAF station. Once the race got under way it was very clear that there was a large mix of running ability throughout crowd and people began to spread out quickly. Capt Taft led the way for 7 Sig Regt, being the fastest member, however he wasn’t able to keep pace with Capt Tony Craig who Members of 231 Sqn Compete in the ANZAC Day Games was the fastest runner of the day completing the event in an outstanding 53 minutes. Everyone who competed said it was a gruelling course but they were all determined throughout and pleased they had made the effort to finish it.

The day was rounded off nicely with a ‘Hanger Bash’ with a local band Fahrenheit performing prior to a DJ taking over for the remainder of the evening. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the event and the whole day which brought the families of Elmpt station together at a time where 16 Sig Regt are still deployed.

ELMPT STATION CADRE 2010 - by Sig Rathbone

After being selected for the Elmpt Station Cadre this year I had feelings of both excitement and worry. I had heard all the NAAFI stories, including rumors of horrendous PT, sleepless nights and the self-induced pressure to do well. I said to myself I would prepare the best I could and then whatever happened after that I would just have to deal with! Lt Col A Long present the ANZAC Trophy to Sp Sqn who won the days events On the first day (a Sunday!), we met all the Training Staff who put The BBQ and beer tent kept everyone fuelled throughout – Cpl on a buffet lunch as a meet and greet. Everyone was slightly Kelly Berry was tasked with games for the children, however nervous as the Training Staff went around the tables meeting the when faced with the prospect of working with children she students. I was glad to speak to the other students and realise it decided it would be easier all round if sweets were handed out wasn’t just me that was a little nervous!

18 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 After the streaming run we were put into our sections. I was in 1 experience of before, the silverware on the tables and the toasts section with Cpl Louis Simpkins as my Section Commander - he by Mr.Vice were really enjoyable. Throughout the night some of spoke to us all and said how he wasn’t interested in the fittest or the students and guests were moved around the tables and I was the un-fittest student, all he wanted to see was the person that moved onto the Top Table, sat between the CO and the RTO. tried to the hardest. This was a relief because I definitely wasn’t When the awards were called out by the CO, he called out Top the fittest in the section. Field Soldier… “Sig Rathbone” I couldn’t believe it! Me? I was so happy! Sig Cook from 2 Section was awarded Top Student After the first week the in-course section rivalry was brilliant, our and then to top off the night 1 Section were awarded Top section had come first on the log run and 2nd on the burden Section! What a night, and what an experience. retrieval in a close battle, competing closely with 3 section all the way to the end. If the PT wasn’t enough to tire us out everyday, the learning curve from the lectures and lessons throughout the day was exhausting. All conversations during the breaks turned to what was coming up next, including the exercise phase. After the RTO inspection I was glad my pre-course preparation didn’t go unnoticed even though I was picked up for a few items. I was stood next to Sig ‘Webtex’ Webster who had a list of items to find that was a lot longer than anyone else’s!

Come the exercise phase I was selected to be the first 2IC from 1 section and after a quick brief from Cpl Simpkins I was thrown into the appointment with a list of things to get done, then left to it! That night and the next day flew by as I was either prepping myself, organising the section or trying to remember everything taught to me to make sure I had done everything a 2IC should LCpls Lalor and Searle get down and dirty on the approach to the do. Cpl Simpkins told the section as 2IC if we were busy then Combat Snap Shoot we were probably doing something right … he was definitely right! The patrols were often long and tiring, the weight of all the OPERATIONAL SHOOTING COMPETITION - by LCpl Searle equipment and the Bowman radio was tough but everyone (despite the 2 hours sleep a night) had high morale and with each As a keen shooter myself, you can imagine my unbridled joy at long cold night and what seemed an even colder morning gone finding out that I was to take two weeks away from duties to train we began to enjoy ourselves more and more. Each section and compete as one of Lt Rob Carnegie’s elite eight-man member was rotated through the 2IC appointment until it came Operational Shooting Team. Further reading of the Admin time for the Final Attack. Instruction revealed a less-favourable nugget of information: “Parade with range kit at cookhouse, 0545 Monday.” All the All week the orders and patrols had been building up to this and better, given that I had just returned from leave late that Sunday. there was a buzz about the section. Cpl Simpkins came back from orders and told me I had been selected to be Section 2IC We headed off to Haltern for some German sun-soaked shooting for the final attack - I had been nervous before but this time I felt training under the keen skilled guidance of SSgt ‘Wilf’ Williams different, more relaxed about the thought of what was expected. and Cpl ‘G’ Gurung – for some, it was the first time they had got The Platoon Commanders orders the following morning their hands on pistols, not to mention SUSATs. This was confirmed a Deliberate Attack on an enemy position, and I set especially apparent when Sig Mee, who was advised upon about organising the section. The attack was forecast to last an attempting to zero that “25 clicks left should do it”. Pistol shoots hour from H hour at 0800, but due to the aggression and speed made for interesting practice with LCpl Lalor, Sig Drury and Sig of the platoon, the Platoon Commander called the Re-Org 18 Mee showed off their pistol shooting experience – all of which is minutes after the first shots. We had successfully taken the thanks to their northern roots and proclaimed history of drive by enemy position. To me it was a blur of adrenalin… from 2 shootings. After the three days’ practice the team was locked Section opening up and 1 Section assaulting the first position, to and loaded and ready to rumble in the direction of Pirbright with me having to dispatch Sig ‘Ginge’ Armstrong to re-supply the morale and banter at maximum levels. other sections with ammunition, 18 minutes actually seemed like two. An amazing feeling and end to a hard but rewarding week. The Friday before the competition gave us a chance to recce ranges and rehearse some further shoots so we had a crack at The 3rd week was a live shooting package and with it a welcome the Henry Whitehead Cup. We shortly learned afterwards that change of accommodation from cold hesco to warm beds. The whoever Henry Whitehead was, he loved free phys in body embedded section armour. The LSW ‘gun run’ made for a particularly surprising hierarchy had now rehearsal; LCpl Rich Searle and Sig Karl Drury were made to become Range complete a series of 100m sprints with the legs of the mighty Safety Staff and we ‘crow cannon’ merrily swinging away. Sig Drury came in for a progressed from fair amount of stick when it transpired that upon eventually grouping and zeroing arriving at the 300m point and adopting the prone position, he our rifles to fire team was too late to fire off any rounds and had to up and move once assaults, including again! having GPMGs providing support After a weekend of varying successes, the four-day competition fire. My favourite kicked off in earnest. The week consisted of some carried and range was a night interesting shoots – and some particularly varied performances time Sanger shoot, from 7 Sig Regt. LCpl Ben Seru became famous for his the dark night skies legendary sprinting to the firing point but equally infamous for his and flares were barn-door shooting. Sig Luke Rogers only narrowly avoided exciting and Wire notes duties after displaying a penchant for preparing to fire something I hadn’t with everyone else running forwards to the next firing point. In done before. contrast, Sig Mee eagerly ran forward towards the 200m firing point on a later shoot while everyone else took aim from the The end of course 300m point – a selfless, though unnecessary, act of bravery in the meal was something extreme. Throughout the week’s madness however, lay some fine I hadn’t had the Fire and Manoeuvre on the Station Cadre shooting – Cfn Jon Warrior picked up silverware for the Corps’

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 19 top non-R SIGNALS shot and Sig Mee for being the top Young Regt Squad. The Individual Championships and event 9 saw Soldier in a number of shoots. Though not formally recognised, Capt Grainger pipped to second by one minute and 30 seconds the team firmly believed that LCpl Damian Smart deserved an and Lt Lois Exell failed to seal the Individual Championship to award for the top admin NCO. her W21 class victory due to being on course but saw the team still managed to top of the league by 18 points. The results The week culminated some more glamorous shoots, including the showed that a combination of coaching and shear determination obstacle-ridden Combat Snap and the casevacs and ammo was paying off as the results got steadily better as the season replens that constitute the famous Parachute Cup. LCpl Brendan drew to a close. Lalor made up for his wonky rifle shooting with a strong pistol performance, making the Corps final (thanks no doubt to some The league was sealed at the last event and 7 Sig Regt won the top helpful but unintended cross-lane firing), only to be pipped at Major League by a clear 52 points. Capt Grainger won the M40 the end by a handful of the Royal Signals’ pistol ninjas. We class and placed second overall in the individual league, and Lt finished 5th in the Corps, a result we were very happy with. Exell won the W21 class overall.

Come the end of the competition the team had bonded The BFG Team event was run on the 26 Mar and consisted of a immensely, shot at a higher level than we had ever before and Harris relay. Following coaching on Javelin Barracks and had something to show for it all. Brig Pope, former Comd 1 Sig participation in a training event at JHQ the team entered 2 Major Bde, summed it all up very well when presenting medals to the and 2 Minor unit teams into the championships. The minor unit team for coming second in the moving targets match saying, “Ah teams both came from the LAD and consisted of 6 under 25 year 7 Sigs! Good to see you here – great Regiment! old runners (3 per team), a good sign for the future of Royal Signals and REME orienteering. During the wettest event this season, the team having badly planned the Harris, dug out blind and won by a mere 14 seconds with a time of 1:18:15 adding the Team championships to their league title.

The Army championships was the culmination of the season efforts; 4 of the 6 that completed the basic skills course attended the championships (2 missing due to injury), a new kit and a great team spirit saw the championships entered with a air of confidence. The final results speak for themselves; 4th in the overall championships behind 3 UK units: Artillery Centre, RMAS and Royal Anglian’s, confirming our status as the best team in Germany able to compete with the best the UK has to offer. The U25 team came third and 2 spare runners came second on the B course as part of an adhoc team; every runner had success.

It has been a team effort from start to finish; from pack lunches to minibuses through to planning and controlling league, unit and training events. It has not only enhanced operational effectiveness through fitness, navigation and decision making without young soldiers being aware but - as sport can do so well – has helped breakdown some of the barriers that exist across 7th Signal Regiment Shooting Team the Regt and build unit cohesion.

7 SIGNAL REGIMENT ORIENTEERING TEAM - by Capt Tony Grainger

Whilst the bulk of the Regt was deployed on Op HERRICK 10 a scratch team of 6 runners returned to Upavon for the Royal Signals Orienteering Championships over the 25/26 Mar. Though they brought no prizes back to BFG but a respectable third was gained in the team event but more importantly the seeds were sown for the forthcoming season.

The BFG season opened 6 Nov 09 with an event run at Achmer during Ex ARRCADE FUSION 09. A great opportunity to get off exercise was taken by a staggering 26 personnel from the Regt – not usual for a unit team – and the flag went down on the season. It was a mixed bag of ranks and experience; 18 of the runners had never participated in an orienteering event before so after a 30 minute map ‘walk and talk’ from team coach Capt Tony Grainger they started a season that would last 5 months and entail several thousand kilometres of minibus journeys! The 7th Signal Regiment Winning Orienteering Team

Christmas arrived and much of the team had missed the 2nd and 7 SIGNAL REGIMENT CROSS COUNTRY TEAM 3rd events due to extended leave following the Regts deployment - by Capt Dean Whitworth and exercise commitments, the team sat 8th behind teams from the Paderborn and surrounding areas. Following the Regts successful deployment on OP HERRICK, the Unit Welfare Officer Capt Dean Whitworth was keen to benefit The New Year started briskly with the addition of planner and from the hard training and physical fitness that the soldiers had quality runner SSgt Williams; the unit organised, planned and spent six months developing. So, on a cold and windy controlled the 6th league event and provided the league with September afternoon the Regimental Cross Country team arguably the best orienteering event of the season, admittedly in competed in its first race of the 2009/10 season. A combination 4 inches of snow! 1 (UK) ADSR stood between the Mighty 7th of tact, diplomacy and the odd use of rank ensured that the and victory and following the 7th event the teams were separated required number of runners jumped on the minibus to make the by just 6 points but with growing strength within the 7 Signal almost weekly drive from Elmpt to the countless other training

20 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 areas within BFG. The team has a good blend of young and old blood with a backup of crusty LE Officers, without which there would be nobody able to drive the minibus, good old ‘Grandfather rights’.

The team has achieved notable successes including runner up in the Royal Corps of Signals Championships, fourth Major Unit in the BA(G) League, and BA(G) team champions 2010. There have been many individual successes in both the league and team championships, LCpl Al Murray has been a consistent runner throughout the season, lifting individual medals in all of the competitions. Unfortunately for us he leaves the Corps in June to join the PT Corps, we wish him the very best of luck. The TOT, Capt Steve Ruxton has lifted a number of medals in the Veterans category and regularly beats the youngsters competing. Sig ‘Steppers’ Stepney and LCpl ‘Woody’ Allen have improved dramatically throughout the season with Sig Stepney lifting the juniors medal at the BA(G) championships.

With the season almost finished the team will turn its efforts to preparing well for the next season where it hopes to win the BA(G) league and compete in UK at the Army championships. 7th Signal Regiment Cross Country Team

10th SIGNAL REGIMENT CORSHAM

REGIMENTAL HEADQUARTERS knew what to expect, but this year was different as I was representing my first real Regt. CO Lt Col SL Copley RSM WO1 (RSM) A Watkins The proceedings started out on a hectic note as good old Mount Eyjafjallajokull (yes I did use Google for that!!) had recently A hectic yet sublimely productive period for the Regt with erupted and had caused delayed and cancelled flights, meaning ongoing surge deployments to Afghanistan from 241 Sig Sqn the 6 of us travelling from 225 had to book a ferry at the last along with the steady roulemont of manpower through the theatre minute. 225 is based in Northern Ireland and with Blandford providing ECM FP support to British Forces. The London being on the other side of the water this was going to be a long summer ceremonial season is now in full flow with yet another journey, so with the qualifiers looming the next day we set off for flawless Trooping the Colour conducted by 251 Sig Sqn whilst the overnight crossing from Dublin. simultaneously supporting a Technical Response Force exercise and the Counter-IED Task Force MRX; the latter in conjunction Arriving in Corsham at about 6am on the morning of qualifiers we with 225 Sig Sqn. 243 Sig Sqn are now truly in contact with the met up with the remainder of the athletes representing 10 Sig HQLF move to Andover from Wilton and are up to their pits, Regt from 241 and 251 Sig Sqns and made our way from there to ducts and application migration in support. Blandford for 8am in a sleep deprived state! My first impression this year was that the organisers had put in a lot of effort with the The Regt now begins to turn its focus towards organising the event, the large stage where the party in the park was going to be Lanyard Trophy Competition which is just around the corner; held was most noticeable and the rest of the facilities looked top more to follow in the next edition I’m sure. notch.

225 SIGNAL SQUADRON I was competing in the long jump and 4 x 100m relay, of which my first event wasn’t until after lunch. This gave me a chance to OC Maj B Bingham chill out in the glorious sunshine that for some unknown reason SSM WO2 (SSM) S Kenny seems to accompany the Morrison Cup. My first event was the long jump, a straight final on the first day. I finished second CHARLIE TROOP - by Cpl Brown overall in the event dipping out by 20 cm to the winner.

It has been a very busy start to this year with new faces flooding The next event for me was the 4 x 100m relay qualification race. into the Sqn. With deployments, surge taskings and the ever- I was picked to run the first leg and we were drawn in lane 6, a growing need for man power the Sqn has grown substantially and nasty lane! We came 2nd in this event, needing a bit more work changed for the better with a third troop being born. The newly on our changeovers for the final. formed “Charlie” troop saw a mixture of new and old faces, marking its birth with a good old fashioned SSM’s parade. There Wednesday came and the weather had cooled down a lot; today was an abundance of nervous faces but it was just not just in was the day for the finals of all the track and field events, the only Charlie troop, Bravo and Alpha were also in the mix. event left for me was the 4 x 100m final in the afternoon so the majority of the day was spent enjoying the athletics and catching Bravo Tp welcomes Cpl Taylor, LCpl Blackwood and Cpl Hill to up with a few mates from other units. In the afternoon our 4 x name just a few and all the fresh (for now) faces from Blandford. 100m team, after a bit of handover training, competed in the final Ever competitive, I’m sure this will add new challenges to inter coming 4th overall concluding my Morrison cup experience for troop competitions. 2010.

THE MORRISON CUP - by LCpl Rose Overall 10 Sig Regt came 4th in the major unit competition and 5th in the ladies event. The highlight for myself was being asked The Morrison Cup was held on 18 - 19 May 2010 at Blandford to represent the Corps in the inter-corps event being held in Camp. I had competed last year representing 11 Sig Regt, so I Tidworth 2 weeks later.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 21 LISBURN SWIMMING COMPETITION - by LCpl Terrett the AT as additional training for their upcoming events. The kayaking group was lead by the chief instructor of Castlemartin On Wednesday 26 May the Sqn entered into the Lisburn Garrison SSgt Gary Craig and LCpl Mark Smith, assisted by Sgt Baulch. swimming competition. There were 5 participating teams, 225 The kayaking group carried out the Kayak Foundation Course Sig Sqn, 19 Lt Bde HQ and Sig Sqn, 40 Regt RA, NIGSU and 38 (KFC) as distributed training to gain their 2 Star British Canoe Bde, making the overall competition quite tough. Union (BCU) award. I, however, was luckily enough to be a part of the patrol competition team and our group began the week The 225 Sig Sqn team comprised SSgt Reid, Cpl Duncan, Cpl with a nice 12 mile walk with a little doubling towards the end. Royal, Cpl Perks, Cpl Harpham, LCpl Biyau, LCpl Terrett, LCpl O’Shea and LCpl Johnston, all who had trained significantly for this event, or something to that effect.

SSgt Reid’s event was the 50m butterfly, in which he came first. Cpl Duncan competed at breaststroke, gaining another first for the Sqn. Cpl Harpham’s backstroke win brought us a hat trick of first places. Finally Cpl Royal’s front crawl added a respectable second place to our dominance of the individual events.

Next the breaststoke relay team consisting of Cpl Perks, LCpl Biyau, LCpl Johnston and myself added a third place to our haul of wins. Following this Cpl Royal, Cpl Perks, LCpl Biyau and LCpl O’Shea competed in the front crawl relay adding another second place to the bag.

The third relay team consisting of Cpl Harpham, LCpl O’Shea, LCpl Johnston and myself did the backstroke coming 4th. The final relay team consisted of the winners of the other events, SSgt Reid, Cpl Duncan, Cpl Harpham and Cpl Royal bagging 225 Sig Sqn another unsurprising first place and the win.

Loaded down with the winners shield and our winner’s medals we retired back to the Sqn lines tired but very happy! That will show the Artillery who is boss in Thiepval!

225 Sig Sqn Kayaking

Our groups 2nd day of training was to carry out a 30km coastal walk that turned out to be a little bit more cheeky than first thought. Our finish point for the days walking was a car park where our minibus was parked. Sgt Allen had kindly parked it in plain view and it could be seen from about 5km away. At one point it felt like a bit of a losing battle as it just did not seem to get any bigger, however, luckily upon arriving at our destination there was an ice cream van packed up ready to leave and the owner kindly reopened for us. I can safely say ice cream never tasted so good. Day 3 was significantly easier, beginning with a short hike and finishing with a visit to Tenby.

On day 4 our group was joined by Capt Day, who had travelled up with the OC and SSM, for a leisurely days walking along the Welsh coastal path. During this final day of walking, whilst I was The 225 Sig Sqn Swiming Team leading, I decided to take a short cut and cut across a bay. I had seen from the map that it had what I thought were very small ADVENTURE TRAINING - by LCpl Shevill streams running into the sea through the bay, however, it turned out that there were streams, but they weren’t that small. Not On Sunday 09 May the Sqn deployed for Adventure Training to wanting to look like I had made a wrong decision I plodded Castlemartin in Pembokeshire, Wales. Deploying from Lisburn at straight through them. Luckily for me, nobody else was too 0300hrs we were stuck in a minibus for the journey to our ferry at enthusiastic about crossing the water and they decided to turn Rosslare, Ireland. Upon arriving at the port it was the usual ‘hurry around and go the long way round. This gave me the perfect up and wait’ that can be associated with Ferry or Air Travel. moment to get some food down my neck and chill out for a bit.

After the ferry crossing to Fishguard it was a short drive to our After our final day walking, all three groups along with Maj accommodation located at Castlemartin. Upon our arrival we Bingham, Capt Day and WO2 (SSM) Kenny headed for the bar were all looking forward to our prearranged late lunch. where after a few formalities we enjoyed a few well deserved Unfortunately the contractors in their wisdom had already closed drinks. but after some clever diplomacy by Sgt Baulch the scoff house reopened to provide us with food after taking over our On the morning of Friday 14 May it was time to pack up, hand accommodation. over the accommodation and make our way to the ferry port for our crossing back over to Rosslare. After the busy ferry crossing Day one of the AT began with the break down of groups. There it was back on the bus for the final leg of our journey to Lisburn. were three groups, two groups who were hiking and one group After almost 12 hours travelling we finally arrived home. I can kayaking. The two hiking groups were lead by Sgt Muers and safely say I haven’t seen bags being unloaded that fast for some Sgt Allen and Sgt Muers group comprised the Patrol time as everyone was looking forward to getting their heads Competition and Lanyard Trophy hopefuls, who hoped to utilise down for a well deserved nights sleep.

22 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 241 SIGNAL SQUADRON The final award for the night was 10 Sig Regt Sportsperson of the Year. From a number of possible contenders the one that OC Maj S Ing outshone all others was LCpl ‘Tommo’ Thomas. Awarded this SSM WO2 (SSM) P Belcher prize for his outstanding services on the Rugby pitch both to the Regt and Corps but also in selection to professional sides. (How REGIMENTAL SPORTSPERSON’’S DINNER else do you think the Regt could use Bath Rugby Club – Ed). Miss Amy Williams presented this prize much to the evident The Regt held its annual Sportsperson of the Year Dinner in May. amazement of LCpl Thomas. For a consecutive year, Bath Rugby Club kindly played host to over a 100 members of the Regt assembled from its four locations across the UK. 241 Sig Sqn had the unenviable tasks of pulling this all together led by SSgt Billy Stennett. Many months of preparation culminated in a fantastic evening celebrating the Regts sporting prowess over the last 12 months. The entire evening gave those assembled a chance to enjoy and reflect on the many sporting achievements that the Regt has achieved and acknowledge those who contributed. The Regt also uses this event as its main fundraising event in support of the ABF_The Soldiers’ Charity. Special guests to the evening were headlined by Miss Amy Williams (recent GB Skeleton Olympic Gold Medal winner), LCpl Katrina Hodge (aka Miss England) and Col Tony Moorby, regional representative for ABF.

Special mention at this stage should go to the organising team and SSgt Micky Lake who volunteered his services and knowledge form having put on last year’s event. As build up to this notable event in the calendar saw many members of the Regt camped outside training grounds across the country collecting autographs and memorabilia and out with buckets in Bath Town 10 Sig Regt Sportsperson of the Year LCpl 'Tommo' Thomas centre and bag-packing in Chippenham Sainsbury’s. Before the receives his award from GB Gold Medallist Miss Amy Williams evening had kicked off (no pun intended) the Regt had already raised some £6k in cash with the Charity Auction yet to take To round off the celebrations of Regtl sporting prowess the place. organising team finished with the raffle and the event that everyone had really been waiting for. SSgt Stennett banged the After 3 courses and much merriment the CO began formal gavel, SSgt Lake pestered, coerced and persuaded bids up and proceedings by way of a short introduction and then awarded up and Miss England kindly paraded or wore the various lots, Regt sporting half-colours. These went to sportsmen and women depending on which was more appropriate. How you display lots from across the whole sporting spectrum including Rugby, and bid is a mystery but she achieved it by outbidding all Football, Hockey and Orienteering. Miss Amy Williams kindly assembled for a signed Tottenham Hotspur shirt. The presented Full Colours to Maj Alun Crapper (Orienteering), Sgt auctioneer’s voice broke during proceedings after having to shout Del Farr (ToW/Hockey), SSgt Lake (Football/Hockey), LCpl down a certain JNCO let loose with a Didgeridoo, nothing a Kwik- Michelle Smith (ToW) and Sig Osling (Rugby). fit beer could not sort.

The hotly contested Regtl Team of the Year was up for grabs At the time of writing, 10 Sig Regt Sportspersons’ Dinner has next. In the frame for the award were the Winter sports team, raised in excess of £10,000 for the ABF. Come On, 10! Orienteering and Hockey. Maj Simon Ing, OC 241 Sig Sqn, collected the Team award as OIC Orienteering and on behalf of 243 SIGNAL SQUADRON the Orienteering team and all those who competed this season. Maj Ing and the team were selected for this award for the OC Maj N Smikle dedication that the team has shown, over the season that has SSM WO2 (SSM) A Alford just finished, for training and competing including the Army Team O Champs in Germany. This is not because he dragged anyone It has been a busy month for all at 243 Sig Sqn. Project Hyperion not playing representative sport in 241 Sig Sqn with him every is well underway with the Sqn currently split between two Wed. ‘Its Mil Training not a sport!’ geographic locations. Those members that have made the move to Andover are settling in as part of the newly formed 605 Sig Tp.

The huge job of cabling infrastructure has dominated the Line Sections working week. The department has had to work long days and draught in additional support from 241 Sig Sqn to ensure the job gets done.

Ops & Exercise department has been busy developing the Andover Sharepoint Portal which is expected to be a main information point for the users at Marlborough Lines. The site will host contact numbers, forms and other support documentation for those settling in at Andover. The project has been led by Sgt Craig Law and is making good progress.

Test & Reference Section have had to get out from behind their Microsoft safety net this month and learn a “chunk” of Linux commands for a ROLF install. Once the job was completed, the team were very happy to move on to the various Lambton projects which subsequently fell into their inboxes. Cpl Richie Cole has made his way across to Andover and is pretending to Maj Simon Ing receiving the Regimental Team of the Year Award be an Installation Technician for the rest of the month, a job he from GB Gold Medallist Miss Amy Williams certainly seems to be enjoying; although reports that he is to

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 23 shun the role of CS Eng and earn his fortune with BT remain 251 SIGNAL SQUADRON unsubstantiated. Sgt Des Simpson has decided to swap Wilton for Afghanistan, beginning his Pre-Deployment Training this OC Maj A Crapper month. Everyone from 243 Sig Sqn wishes him the very best of SSM WO2(SSM) S Gronn luck, although we are still not quite sure how his Scottish complexion will react to all that sun…don’t forget to pack the STATE OPENING OF PARLIAMENT 23-25 MAY 2010 lotion! - by Cpl Sanders

The LAND Enterprise team have been busy with firmware updates 638(London) Tp deployed to Wellington Barracks at 2200 on and preparation ahead of the move to Andover. LCpl Tony Sunday the 23 May to attend the rehearsal of the State Opening Luckman has chosen to re-trade as a “bouncer” to best support of Parliament. Thankfully it was a clear night and a quiet street those already at Marlborough lines. With his additional duties as except for the sound of the military heel of 638 street liners door staff to the server rooms, his words “if your names not on marching out to their positions. The rehearsal went well except the list, you’re not coming in!” are repeated daily like a mantra. for the unfortunate decision Cpl Gailey took to fight with the This month Cpl Dooks decision to play racing driver has also floor! The brave operator was quickly replaced by keen seen his car written off. Having lost his pride and joy he is now technician and PTI LCpl Jolley. resorting to transport “the old fashioned way” not by walking but by asking for a lift every 10 minutes! 25 May, the day of the event, saw thousands of members of the public enjoy a glorious summers day accompanied by a flawless With the imminent departure of WO1 FofS (IS) Yvonne Austin, ceremony. As the Queen arrived at the Palace of Westminster, who is due (well and truly!) for maternity leave; the Ops team the guns of Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery sounded a 21 gun have had a new arrival as SSgt FofS (IS) Martin Kennie joins us salute, signifying the Queens arrival at Westminster, and the from Blandford. successful timing given from Lt Wallis to SSgt Owen and Cpl Gurung, giving the order to fire. In all the day was a great Helping to fulfil success and 638(L) Tp were praised for their outstanding networking performance. requirements within HQLF, Cpl Stephen MOUNTAIN LEADER TRAINING AT CAPEL CURIG 26-30 ‘Gucci’ Lawrence APRIL 2010 - by LCpl Brereton and Cpl Peter Mellor have been delivering The week started off well after discovering that our group were far Cisco training across superior to the previous week’s lot, we were upgraded from SMP all IS-roled to MLT. departments. Lesson one was a big On day one of the course LCpl Sam Walmsley accepted every success with many bit of the available issued kit including a fine pair of walking knowing at least chinos, he was mocked until the DS noticed LCpl Luke some CLI commands Brereton’s fine walking footwear which appeared more suitable as they left. Lesson 2 to sunny walks along the seafront – he was soon to find out the is keenly anticipated limitations of these shoes. as it will hopefully be offering even more of LCpl Brereton lasted almost a mile before coming to the same a “hands-on” conclusion as the DS in that his choice of footwear was approach. Promises somewhat misguided. This was to set the tone of his day until have been made that we finished and he shot down town to get a more suitable pair of Cisco produce robust LCpl Shaw, taking advantage of the boots. enough equipment to beautiful May sun? withstand even the Day 2 started almost exactly the same for LCpl Brereton only most eager and heavy handed of CS Engineers. I certainly hope this time he got a good few miles before realising that his brand so for the Foreman’s sake! new, all singing all dancing boots were “knackered”. The rest of the day passed almost without any incident except for LCpl The Army VS Navy rugby match saw both a disappointing end for Walmsley deciding that he didn’t fancy walking 800m down a hill, its Army supporters and for the members of the Sqn who made instead he decided that the best way to retrieve his falling issued the trip to Twickenham. Sgt Simpson fell asleep in a London daysack was with a banzai jump off the edge whilst maintaining tube station until being rudely awakened by the Tannoy system his grip on his issued flask and not spilling a drop. Luckily he asking him to find somewhere else, thank god for bus stops! Cpl Dooks on the other hand made great progress in getting home, so great in fact that he went straight past Salisbury and ended up in the New Forest. It took one very expensive taxi ride until he finally found his bed.

The past two months have seen a number of departures. Most notably, Sqn 2i/c Capt (Retd) Bob Wright who, after a service totalling more than 50 years, has finally made the decision to retire and brush up on his golf. The farewell function took place at The Rose and Crown, Harnham and saw both military and civilian staff in their Sunday best for a sit down meal. Three courses and many drinks later the decision was made to go into Salisbury where those attending stayed until the early hours. It wasn’t until the next day that the scale of the function was realised with some either waking still dressed in their suits or not waking in their beds at all. So once more we bid a fond farewell to Capt Wright, he will undoubtedly be missed by all here at HQLF. Capt Wright was awarded the Commander in Chiefs Certificate for Meritorious Service on the Queen’s Birthday Honours List 2010. The MLT Team

24 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 recovered his daysack along with his sandwiches. The only other On Tuesday we learnt how to rescue each other when we incident of any note was Sgt Andy Moffat’s perfectly timed calf capsized, how to be rescued and what to do when your entire twinge as we were about to scale a rock face, he still maintains group capsizes. he isn’t scared of heights! The best day by far was Wednesday when we went to “4 mile Day 2 ended much in the same way as day one with LCpl bridge” and were shown some more experienced stuff which saw Brereton having a mad dash down town for boots number 3. all of us capsize except for Cpl Sanders. Cpl Hayes and LCpl Three days walking and 3 different pairs of boots. Eldridge nearly managed to paddle out of the eddy and through the bridge trying to show off their silky skills but ended up The rest of the week went without any major events it was just a floating away upside down! But throughout the week it was the case of watching our 2 resident mountain goats competing; LCpl boss who capsized the most, so much so that on the fourth day Ranjit Singh and LCpl Rob Felters. he learnt how to flip himself back over.

The course was all but finished; the only part to do was the water crossing which no one actually believed we were going to do an hour before leaving for Aldershot. However, we did do it and SSgt John Roberts took the brunt of the deep (2ft) water although Sgt Moffat wasn’t much better off.

KAYAK FOUNDATION COURSE AT CAPEL CURIG 26-30 APRIL 2010 - by Sig Abbott

At the start of the week LCpl Eldridge and Cpl Hayes already had 2 stars and were used to demonstrate most of the techniques by our instructor Sgt Wilson-Cochrane. Cpl Weller had also kayaked many times before, however the rest of us Lt Graham, Cpl Sanders and Sig Abbott had very little experience.

On the first day we chose our Kayaks and got them adjusted to ourselves and using the extra broken kayaks managed to get 6 working ones! We then had our daily weather briefing before setting off into Capel Curig. We got on the water and straight away I was the first person to capsize, which wasn’t a surprise to me as I have absolutely no balance at all. The Kayak Course all the right way up

11th SIGNAL REGIMENT BLANDFORD

CO Lt Col JAL Vosper opportunity) to take it in turns to sit by the BBQ and “watch the RSM WO1 (RSM) Mickey Yendell food cooking” and couldn’t possibly be digging at the same time. Being slowed down by the 10m concrete slab that needed 1 (OUSTON) SQUADRON digging out of the plots we managed to dig over 6 out of the 8 planned plots with quote of the day coming from Phillips – “I OC Capt JF Godfrey tried digging but am no good with the shovel so I’ll just push the SSM WO2 (SSM) A Doe wheel barrow all day”. We finished and made it back in time for the football. EXERCISE HOLTON LEE - by Sig Corps Two hard days worth of work which will hopefully make life easier We arrived at Holton Lee at 1000 hrs on Sat 8 May 10, morale for the less able people in the community was completed; it has was high but the weather was grim. We began with a briefing given all involved a great sense of well being and is something I’d from Matt the Park Ranger and were then split into groups, the jump at the chance of doing again. weaker ones going inside to paint with Cpl Bloy, the rest going to hump and dump trees – the first time we’d ever done a log run! At the lake 6 stayed to load up the vehicles and 4 to unload and start pegging them in place. Stewart, who is one of the disabled people that volunteer their time, was driving one vehicle and Sig Davies driving the other – Stewart being the better driver of the two.

Sigs Hearne and Kernohan were unloading the vehicles whilst Sigs Pepper and Edgar were making the log barrier around the island. Pepper, being as accurate as he is, managed to hit his shin with the mallet, instead of hitting the pegs being used to stabilise the logs; what a Muppet! The first day seemed to pass rather quickly, probably because of the hard work and everybody getting stuck in, followed by Sig Wilson cooking a mean BBQ to finish off a good day.

On day 2 the Painters & Decorators (Sigs Leslie, Storey, Budge and Julian) went off to touch up their previous days efforts. The rest of us split into teams to start digging the 2m by 4m allotment plots which turned into 4m by 8m plots!!! At lunch Chefs Edgar and Pepper plucked up the courage (more like saw their Holton Lee

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 25 MERCURY 500 - by Sig Funghang Limbu EXERCISE OUSTON VENTURE - by Sig Anthony

As we know there are many sporting events and competitions Our adventure training weekend at Penhale Camp in Cornwall taking place in the military and when my Tp SSgt came out and was my first experience of this kind with the Armed Forces, and I asked for 10 volunteers for an endurance event I thought ‘why was excited! It was quite a long drive to get there from not, let’s give it a go’. When we were given the Admin Instruction Blandford, but the coach journey was a laugh and helped pass I thought ‘what have I let myself into?’ I had entered an event the time. When we arrived we received our rota for the weekend, called Mercury 500, which was 500 laps of a 400m running track seeing that the next day was going to be rock climbing sent me done by a team of 10 carrying 30lb each; this had to be done in to bed full of anticipation! 24 hours. The next morning we set off with our lunch packs (though they On the 22 Apr 10 at 1600hrs the whistle was blown on the were more like snack packs with very little food) ready to athletics track at Blandford camp and all 11 teams that had experience our first activity. When we arrived, the instructors entered from various units set off on their 500 laps. Every team taught us the necessary safety procedures and techniques had different strategies and we had decided to try and do 2 laps needed; this gave us time to practice our belaying and tying of per person, but what we had thought would be a tab round the figure of eight knots to prevent us from accidentally dying. Then track very quickly turned into a one lap run if we were ever going off we went! to keep up with the pace of the other units. We started off on the climbing wall so that the instructors could As the evening went on and it started to get dark we looked at see that we were capable of doing the task and that we were safe the lap timer and it was showing we had only done 80 laps but to whilst doing it. We then got to go on real rock. We abseiled look at us you would have thought we had nearly finished the down and I had a bit of a scary moment where I nearly filled my 500; however we were sitting in 3rd overall which felt good. pants; this was purely due to the shape of the rock face and not Daylight came and the feet were sore but we kept on running, my awful abseiling skills! Once at the bottom I realised we were counting down lap by lap. With only about an hour to go we on a nudist beach with two OAPs being at one with nature; not a dropped our 3rd place and finally finished a very respectable 4th pretty sight! It was a good day though and when we all got to overall with a time of about 17 hours. the bottom some of the lads decided to go into the sea. Mind you this was only for about 10 seconds as it was Baltic. What a bunch of women!

The next day I tried something new – Coasteering! This was the first time I had ever worn a wetsuit and let me tell you it will be the last time as well! Let’s just say that they ‘restrict’ your movements ever so slightly. It was a gorgeous sunny day and when we got to the first jump it looked alright, it wasn’t too high so I went for it. On landing in the water however I realised it didn’t matter how warm the day was, the water was still freezing! We then had to swim to the next jump which wasn’t that bad as it got us used to the water, apart from the fact that I made the school boy error of not wearing any gloves. The next jump was three times the size of the first and it wasn’t until I got to the top until I realised exactly how high it was. There I am stood on a 40 foot jump pretending not to be as scared as everyone was deep down; but I swallowed hard and just went for it! Once I emerged from the water I swam as fast as I could to get out and have another go, it was such a rush, but I got told I wasn’t allowed. Gutted! Mercury 500 – SSgt McGrory

After the last team finished the winning team was awarded a trophy by SOinC(A) Brig EM Flint, which was great as it showed us all how important the competition was viewed by the Corps. I would like to thank the admin group, on behalf of the team, for supporting us; they laid on food and much needed energy drinks throughout the night and worked as hard as we did to achieve that 4th place. On a personal note I felt I had really achieved something after completing this race and, although it was hard, would definitely do it again.

Capt Ross doing his best skydiving pose We swam around a little more and did a few more jumps and eventually ended up back at the minibuses. On arriving though we saw something that made us all smile; all of the buses had parking tickets; bad times! Overall it was a fantastic weekend and an amazing experience; I can’t wait to do something like that Mercury 500 Team again!

26 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 WO2 and Mrs Soward, Sgt Bate and Sgt Crump RAF, all of whom promised a fantastic day out and maybe – just maybe – a beer at the end.

Cpl Chaitanyakumar and LCpl Thapa-Magar enjoying the scenery

2 (CATTERICK) SQUADRON The Blandford Contingent

OC Maj J Maynard MBE Founders Day, as the name suggests, commemorates the SSM WO2 (SSM) A Fraser founding of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea. Until the 17th Century the state made no specific provision for old and injured soldiers REGIMENTAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO GARRISON EVENTS: and care for the poor and sick was provided by the religious foundations and much of this provision ended following the BLANDFORD SPORTS FC - by Sgt Smiejkowski dissolution of the monasteries in 1536.

11 Sig Regt supports 2 football teams, the Regtl team and During the reign of Queen Elizabeth I it became recognised that Blandford Sports FC who play in the Dorset County Football provision needed to be made for the poor and for sick and Leagues. I took over as manager and secretary of Blandford disabled soldiers. This led to an Act of Parliament, passed in Sports FC in March 09 as the club sat mid table in League 1593, that levied a weekly tax (not exceeding 6d in the pound) on Division 3. Through hard work and support from all players and parishes for the relief of soldiers and sailors. In 1692 work was coaching staff, the team won most of their remaining games and finally completed, and the first In-Pensioners were admitted in managed to attain promotion into Division 2. February 1692 and by the end of March the full complement of 476 were in. With the new season approaching the club had full support and sponsorship from the Regt who purchased new equipment and It was an exceptional honour to be able to view the parade and playing strips. Under the unnerving management of Sgt Rob speak with the In Pensioners and should anyone reading this ever Smiejkowski and the skills from WO2 Daz Kidd as Head Coach get the opportunity to attend such a day, I wholeheartedly the team was ready for the fight in a very difficult new league. recommend it to you all.

Throughout the season the club registered some 70 players in total, but saw many great individuals come through and mature, although too many to name, special mention must go to Sam Agar, Luke Flanagan, Myles Gorey, Ashley Gill, Anthony Roman and Luke Howard who were selected into both the full Corps team or the Corps under 23s team.

The team also had great support from Permanent Staff and Upgraders, especially Sgt Stuart Wood, Sgt John Fielding, Cpl Mike Arnold, Cpl Graham Baily and LCpl John Reid. It was these players who provided the foundation and stability when things didn’t always go the way the management wanted. These players committed, supported and believed in the team throughout the season.

All players and coaching staff are to be congratulated on the season’s achievements of not only finishing second and winning promotion into the Premier League but also walked away with the Dorset Intermediate Cup. Very well done indeed!

GARRISON VISIT TO FOUNDERS DAY ROYAL HOSPITAL WO2 (SSM) Nicholls and Mal CHELSEA – 10 Jun 10 - by Capt Jim Boyden CO’S CHARITY FUN RUN - by Capt Jim Boyden

Plato once wrote that “The nation that forgets it’s defenders will There is an old saying that goes “You don’t have to be mad to itself be forgotten” and with that thought (and not being the kind work here, but it helps”, and nowhere is this more true that at the of chap to pass up an opportunity for a day out), I happily jumped mighty 11 Sig Regt. With the monthly CO’s Run (long, arduous, in with a group of SNCOs from across Blandford Camp to travel sweaty) being replaced once a year by the CO’s Charity Fancy up to the Royal Hospital in Chelsea to watch the annual Founders Dress Fun Run (shorter, still arduous, still sweaty) in support of Day parade and visit our resident R SIGNALS Chelsea the ABF, it is a testament to the spirit of the Regt that we can run Pensioners, Mal and Les, who had so kindly invited us up for the though the leafy streets of Blandford Garrison dressed as John day. I was grateful to be accompanied by WO1 (RSM) Yendell, Lennon (Lt Col Vosper), gladiators (WO1 (RSM) Yendell) and in WO1 (GSM) Gutteridge, WO1 (FofS) Riley and Miss L Hodges, full 4 Romeo NBC suits (complete lunatics) and no-one will bat an WO2 (SSM) Nicholls, WO2 (SSM) Butler and Miss T Broom, eyelid.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 27 RHINO TROOP - by Sig Prest

Tp OC WO1 G Padfield Tp SSgt SSgt Riste

Rhino Tp’s Cadre has seen quite a few changes recently. WO1 Jase Lawer has now left to become RSM, his replacement WO1 Guy Padfield is now in post. SSgt Steve Riste has been appointed Tp SSgt and we say goodbye to SSgt Shaun Hutson who has taken on the role of CSBR Course Co-Ord.

The Tp also welcomes Sgt Tony Ingoe, Cpl Scott Hawkes and Cpl Bernie Wilson and says farewell to Cpl Ben Carter who is off to swear at 22 Sig Regt, giving us all a break from his potty mouth and his constant stories of his beloved football team – Liverpool FC.

Rhino Tp has had a very busy few months and recently deployed on Ex CATTERICK COHESION, a military skills exercise where we enhanced our skills in BCDT, fieldcraft, map reading and shooting. The Tp especially enjoyed working in FOB Thorpe, learning counter IED and Patrolling skills.

It was also Gordon’s Cup time again and the mighty Rhino Tp put The CO and RSM running in style in a valiant effort, helping 2 (Catterick) Sqn gain 3rd place in the Regt, with special thanks to the Upgrader course who supplied Of course, running in fancy dress itself wouldn’t generate any Section Mentors for this event. money for the ABF, so it was with a sense of curiosity that I approached the start point with my wallet (dressed as Batman), IRON TROOP - by Sig Learmonth wondering how I would be relieved of my hard earned pay. I soon found out, as at the start line by the Cradock, I was OC Lt Wilmore ambushed by some smiling Phase 2 soldiers armed with big Red Tp SSgt SSgt Grainger ABF buckets. During the past month there have been a lot of changes in the “Here sir, it’s a pound to run in fancy dress” they cheerfully Iron Tp office. The OC, Lt Willmore, has left to be a civvi. The Tp informed me. has also lost Cpl Bishwa who has been posted to 30 Sig Regt, but have gained another 2 Ghurkha soldiers, Cpl Dipendra from “A pound?” I said, outraged. “That’s half a pint. What’s the 30 Sigs and Sgt Indra from Cormorant Section. Cpl Chadwick alternative?” has also been posted in from 2 Sigs.

“You can run in your issued PT kit” they informed me smiling. The Tp has worked hard on their military skills during syndicate training which they showed during Ex CATTERICK COMPASS I put a pound in the bucket. that took place on the 8/9 May. On exercise they practised their map reading and navigation skills, BCD, shooting and field craft. And then, from all over the Regt, the runners assembled and what a sight to behold that was. There were pirates, ninjas, farmyard Iron Tp performed well at the Morrison Cup, taking part in most animals and superheroes, there were firemen and Greeks and of the events. Sig Gray came 2nd in the 3000m steeple chase even Mr Blobby made a guest appearance. The big red ABF and Sig Smith came in 3rd just behind him. Sig Walkinshaw buckets were soon filled to overflowing with shiny pound coins as came 1st in the 100m sprint for the female team. Sig Carr, a the option to run in issued PT kit clearly wasn’t a popular one and boxer that joined the Tp in February as a home National Boxer after a quick brief by the Gym staff (who were being suspiciously having gained silver in the 5 Nationals has now been selected for nice for charity) we were off. And then, the heavens opened. the Army team. Really opened. BOWMAN OPERATOR TROOP - by Sgt Nix Now, running in the rain is never a pleasant pastime, and I would imagine it’s even less pleasant if you’re dressed in a sumo suit HIO Mr Graham Reynolds that can hold upwards of thirty gallons of rainwater (as one brave Tp SSgt SSgt Hudson man was), so any excuse to escape would have been leaped upon – and lo and behold, when I turned the corner by the The Tp has been very busy over the last couple of months, not airfield, an “escape route” had been set up, again manned by only continuing to provide top class training to Phase 2 and 3 some smiling, Gore-Tex clad Phase 2 soldiers with the obligatory soldiers but also carrying out the BCIP 5.4 uplift which involved big red ABF bucket. stripping, boxing, and sending all the old equipment away so it could be uplifted then re-installing it upon its return. Many thanks “How much to escape?” I ventured in my best haggling-at-the- to all the instructors for their patience whilst this was carried out sales voice. as resources were limited during this period.

“Five pounds, sir” came the reply. Arranged by Mr Ezard, the Tp were involved in a ‘bonding day’ which entailed us all thoroughly enjoying ourselves racing around I looked at the remaining two miles. I looked at the sky. I put five the Camp Go Karting track, then playing (badly) 9 holes of Golf at pounds in the bucket. Dorsets Little Gem. Special mention to Sgt George for managing to become the first ever person to go ‘Airborne’ on the Go Hey, I had to – it was for charity! All in all, the day was a fantastic Karting Track! success, and under the organisation of our new MAA, Capt Jayne Ecott, the Regt managed to raise a total of £1200 for the We have to say a HUGE goodbye to Mr Dave Spurr, and also a ABF, adding to our already impressive total of donations for the massive thanks for his hard work and great instruction over the year. last 2 years. He will be sorely missed.

28 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 We would like to say a big hello to Sgt Helen Tweed, Cpl John to a sudden halt when the car broke down on a country lane, a Russell, Cpl Lee Bruin, Mr Bob Sizeland, Mrs Louise Ezard few miles away from Blandford Camp. and last but not least Mr Dom Rowe Sig Rachael Carwardine wishing to remain smart and Congratulations to Sgt Si Hogg on the birth of his new baby boy. presentable and heeding her parents’ advice acquired new We all hope is going well! underwear in the form of a pair of granny knickers.

3 (HARROGATE) SQUADRON Cpl Phil Johnson and his team found themselves sleeping in the train station due to lack of hotels around London, but then their OC Maj Emma Bruce night brightened up as some kind police officers bought them a SSM WO2 (SSM) Rob Luke couple of cans of beer.

ULSTER TROOP In the eyes of the trainee the weekend was a huge success: it was extremely enjoyable and everyone worked extremely well OC WO1 Sean McIlroy whilst building loads of confidence within themselves. In the eyes Tp SSgt SSgt Flo Watts of the training staff the aims of the exercise “to score more points than any other team whilst developing self-reliance, self EXERCISE HARROGATE INITIATIVE - by Sig Timms confidence and initiative” were fully achieved.

Over the period 7 - 9 May, Phase 2 and Phase 3 soldiers from Ulster and Lightning Tp were sent out on ex in teams of 3 around the South West and South East of England for 48 hours. They were set the task of competing against each other and by using their initiative to complete as many of the tasks that were set for them. There was a cut off time of 10am Sunday morning. All of the teams were very nervous and unsure what to expect, due to rumours of SF style interrogation and full cavity searches. No one was allowed to take any money, credit cards or a mobile phone. All they were allowed was an MOD 90, one issued mobile phone and paperwork which explained what they were doing and the tasks they had to try and complete. There was also an emergency fund of £10.30.

On the Friday morning all the teams had a brief from SSgt Flo Watts and Capt Copeland. After the brief all the teams were then swiftly, thoroughly and sometimes intimately searched by Harrogate Initiative Team with Frank Lampard SSgt Watts and Cpl Paul Gardner (who seemed to enjoy it) to make sure no one had hidden money or trying to take mobile phones, any of the teams found with any forbidden items were deducted points. All the teams were then sent into a holding room to wait for transport to take them to the start locations. None of the teams knew where they were going or where they were going to be dropped off.

All of the teams were dropped off somewhere in the southern part of England and were not allowed to go any further than the north side of the M25. Once the teams were dropped off they had to really start using their initiative, confidence and the art of blagging items and some kind of transport. Most teams managed to use the train whether this would have been 2nd class or even travelling by 1st class all the way to London and (even one team managed to get the bus redirected from Salisbury to Stonehenge, try explaining to everyone on the bus why it’s getting redirected). Teams also managed to get free usage of the London Harrogate Initiative Team with the Deputy PM underground. No teams wanted to go hungry for the weekend so many teams managed to blag a McDonalds as well as a fancy MORRISON CUP - by Sig Dickson restaurant meal (like Nandos). Finding places to spend the two nights proved quite difficult, whether it was ending up sleeping in This was my first experience of the Morrison Cup so I didn’t really a train station or someone’s house, to ending up sleeping in a 5 know what to expect. I had heard stories of previous star hotel penthouse. competitions and how it was a good opportunity to compete against different members of the Corps and catch up with old Here are some of things the guys got up to over the 48 hour ex: friends.

Sig Steve Timms and his team managed to meet the now The build up for me started on the Monday night when we had appointed Deputy Prime Minster, Nick Clegg. Now normal our last training session and team briefing to finalize the events people shake hands but a member of his team Sig Aaron Dyke, and timings in which we would be competing in. I was one of the decided he didn’t want to shake his hand, and stepped on his lucky phase 2 soldiers to have been given the Tuesday off trade foot instead. and would not have to compete in my event and return to class.

Sig ‘Georgie’ Atkins and his team completed the task “to drive a Out of all the sports I have taken part in during my time in car worth at least £100,000”. As well as just a test drive they Blandford this was by far the most nervous I have been prior to then decided to buy the car. The car in question was a Bentley competing. I think this was partly due to competing in events I Continental GT. had never competed in before and not knowing how many spectators there was going to be. Once I realised on the Tuesday Sig Anthony Cole and his team managed to get some nice girls it was mostly competitors that were watching and had my first to drive them round all night to complete tasks, but then it came race out of the way I started to enjoy the day.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 29 There was of course the added bonus that the weather for the times to beat. Cpl Cole took us all to school by getting the best heats on Tuesday was glorious, I’m sure the long distance time of the day which reflected in the overall standings. Once we competitors felt differently, but for short distance and spectators were all done the I-Sport team decided to show us how its really it was perfect. It promised to be a good day on the Wednesday done and put on an impressive display of professionally quick for 11 Sig Regt after a good start getting some points on the tyre changes, including one attempt that went slightly wrong board in those longer distances that were a straight final and the (much to our delight) as their air gun disconnected before they field events, also making the finals in all other events. could get the wheel back on.

Wednesday had a good vibe with all the extra spectators, a full The day ended with some prize giving with Cpl Cole winning bar and all the phase 2 soldiers sat on the banking happy to have overall and coming away with a trophy and champagne, also we a day off trade. It wasn’t as sunny, but perhaps that was better had our own prize giving ceremony as the I-Sport team were for the athletes. 11 Sig Regt had a brilliant second day, presented with an 11 Sig Regt plaque by Sig Moorby. particularly the male team who finished first overall with the females finishing third, narrowly missing out on a medal. This All in all the day was a complete success and enjoyed by all. meant having a few photo’s taken at the end of the day! I really enjoyed being a part in this event and would recommend people LIGHTNING TROOP have a go next year, even if they don’t really think they like athletics. OC WO1 Pete Watson Tp SSgt SSgt Kev Young I look forward to coming back to Blandford next year to compete. STURMINSTER NEWTON RAFT RACE 2010 - by Cpl Kennealy I-SPORT INITIATIVE - by Sig Moore The Annual Sturminster Raft Race is organised by Sturcrazy and After winning the Gordon’s Cup, our section won a day out to see runs on a course covering 5km, 3 weirs and one low bridge (3ft) the I-Sport GP2 team. After an early start we managed to get on the Stour River starting at Cutt Mill, Hinton St Mary and going by 5:40am and set off on our four and a half hour journey finishing at The Bull Tavern, Sturminster Newton. This year it was to Thetford, Norfolk. We arrived at 11:00am and instead of all in aid of Help for Heroes and the Dorset and Somerset Air walking out of the van onto a glamorous track that resembled Ambulance, in which Lightning Tp entered two vessels and raised Monaco like we were all expecting, we were greeted by the sight a massive £575. of, “a shed in the middle of nowhere”. Some of us were thinking this might be a bit of a naff day but proceeded into the I-Sport Of course when I convinced seven other NCO’s from the troop to HQ hoping we were wrong. join in, what I failed to mention was the distance of the race or the effort required! The weekend started on Friday with LCpl We were shown through the reception, into the workshop and Kirsty Wint and myself collecting stores (oil drums, old pallets, there we were greeted by the I-Sport director and given a brief rope, black nasty) whilst Sgt Phil Smith organised the troops and overview of what they do. We were then shown through to the power tools. Together we then constructed two classic rafts, ‘other’ workshop. Here were two GP2 race cars side by side, worthy of our team name: The Royal Army Floating Team. one raised with the shells off so we could see the internals and the other completely good to go, including spare wheels and Everyone then reconvened at the start line for 0900hrs on Sunday tools ready for the changes. All our doubts went out the window (or 0945 if you were still having breakfast – sorry!), where final and we now were looking forward to a really good day, especially preparations were made and the competition was sussed out. A as we were then shown to the racing simulator which was the total of 27 rafts took part and included such team names as ‘May front half of a real race car and a screen which showed the track the Oars be With You’ (A raft of Storm troopers), ‘HMS Inebriated’ from the drivers view. (The RBL entry) and ‘HMS Fester’ (an upturned Transit van roof!). Setting off at one minute intervals crafts where launched from Once the guided tour was over we were split into two teams and Cutt Mill and immediately had to navigate over two weirs, one of it was definitely the experienced against the un-experienced, one which was deceptively deep, as Cpl Steve Henderson and LCpl team would be doing the tyre changes while the other would be Wint found out. The course then headed toward Sturminster and in the simulator, then we would swap. The rivalry started and we offered ample opportunity to overtake / take on water / sink all began to boast how fast we would be in the pits and on the depending on raft design! Local crowds, families and friends ‘track’. Being in the un-experienced team I definitely felt I had an lined the route in support. Our rafts finished respectfully in 1hr advantage as none of my team mates had a driving licence. Sig 20mins and 1hr 29mins, achieving 11th and 13th placing, whilst Moorby started off the simulator and he appeared to enjoy doing the winners beat the previous record and finished in 58 minutes, donuts, either that or he just couldn’t drive in a straight line, but the losers were still paddling after 3hrs! still managed a decent time. Then Sig Brown and Sig Wright both put in good effort but Sig Brown ended up with the time to After drying off and a change of clothing we headed to The Bull beat. I then stepped up and finally feeling the pressure of sitting Tavern for a BBQ and the prize giving ceremony by local dignitary in the driving seat, managed to just beat Sig Brown’s time by WO1 (RSM) Micky Yendall. Then over a pint or several we only a few seconds, which is quite shocking as I was the only one started to plan our design for next year! who had a licence! A BOOTNECK PERSPECTIVE OF THE HARROGATE In the meantime our rival team made up of Cpl Cole, Sig’s INITIATIVE - by Cpl Phil Johnson RM Brown, Mann, Sawyer and Berry were blitzing the tyre changes; they were setting some extremely quick times to beat. We could For those of you who don’t know what the Ex HARROGATE hear the banging of the wheels being whipped on and off, and INITIATIVE entails, it’s basically a competition where recruits are the loud whizzing of the air gun working the wheel nut. Individual split into teams of three and dropped off in the middle of nowhere tyre changes were also going well for them, Cpl’s Mann and and have to complete a multitude of tasks from meeting the Sawyer both had equal times of 8.4 seconds which was also prime minister to feeding a lion, the team with the most points going to be extremely hard to crack. wins. Simple!

Our un-experienced team started off a bit slow to get the hang of So early one Friday morning we all stood there looking forward to the tyre changes but we were soon coming up to the required the weekend activities dressed in smart civvies (I, being a leading standard, and soon were challenging for the quickest time. trendsetter in fashion, do not have that attire in my wardrobe, so I Unfortunately we couldn’t beat the team time but achieved a had to beg borrow and steal). As well as being slightly older and respectable 4.9 seconds. Experience definitely came into it as looking like Angus out of AC/DC, which Staff Flo Watts was so they were hammering the ‘track’ as if we hadn’t even set any kind to point out.

30 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 Once the initial proceedings were dealt with (body search, teams, flippers as they hurt like hell, but more importantly, made us look and task books) off we went on our merry 48hr adventures. It is like idiots walking into the sea! This change of tactic didn’t seem not my job in this article to write about what every team got up to to hinder the practical ability of the team in anyway – we were or what we ourselves did, that has been done in another article I just as bad with them as without. was asked to write on reflection of what I think Ex HARROGATE INITIATIVE brings to the table for the recruits of 3 Sqn, so here In the afternoon, something a little different awaited us, in the goes. form of Coasteering – also known as ‘pointlessly throwing yourself off rocks in to the sea’. The session went well and was It has been a concern of mine for the 9 very enjoyable months enjoyed by nearly all - the only exception being Sgt Ali Sabiston, serving with 3 Sqn that whilst the soldiers in 3 Sqn are very who developed a bad case of what is commonly known as ‘disco intelligent and amazing when it comes to technology they are leg’ and had to be helped down the cliff by an instructor rather somewhat lacking in confidence and people skill. The experience than jumping into the sea. At least that goes to show that we these young ladies and gentlemen have gained in a weekend was were operating out of our comfort zones! significant. None of us are born NCO’s, it comes with experience, and with experience comes confidence. Whilst The next activity attempted by the team was surfing and as we watching everyone’s presentation and seeing what they achieved approached the beach, the waves seemed nice and small. and what they learnt good or bad it became very apparent that all However as the wind built up, so did the waves, until it appeared the groups learnt to improvise and push boundaries. Boundaries to resemble a scene from the ‘Poseidon Adventure’. We had a they probably would never believed they could, to the point lesson on Nostril beach first of all and then we were let loose on where I was sitting there saying “why did I not think of that”. the sea - where the first challenge was getting out far enough without catching a surfboard in the face. Then came the big test Also watching their confidence grow standing in front of their - who can stand up? Needless to say there were bodies and peers and superiors whilst giving their presentations, going from boards everywhere, and the short answer is ‘no-one’, but nervously fidgeting with cotton mouth, you could visibly see their thankfully there were no major injuries. confidence grow with every laugh they received from the audience including the CO. To the point where they suddenly This was all followed by the usual bit of hill walking, led by Sgt thought they were Jack Dee live at the Apollo and trying to drag Carl Shackleton around the coastal path of Newquays headland. them off after 20 mins. Whilst somewhat less enjoyable than the waterborne activities it was certainly challenging and everyone returned to the campsite All these experiences will leave them in good stead for their that night absolutely shattered looking forward a quiet early hopefully long and fruitful careers in the Royal Signals. With night…. events coming up very shortly such as PNCO, where lack of confidence is a major reason where recruits fail, to future events At the end of a frantic couple of days everyone agreed that we where they will be asked to work within the tri-services where had had a great time, challenged ourselves and learnt something they will find out the meaning of “no cuff to tuff”. Most of all new. And more importantly we were all thankful we didn’t go to though it teaches them the meaning of comradeship, something Brecon instead! that they have done together that will never be forgotten, we have all been there, when bumping into an old mucker you haven’t seen in years as careers take different paths, enjoying a pint, the first thing that is often said is “remember when”.

4 (MIL TRG) SQUADRON

OC Capt J Swindell SSM WO2 (SSM) Love

EXERCISE JUNIOR SURF - by Sgt Ward

Adventure Training season is upon us and even in the busy world of 4 (Mil Trg) Sqn some personnel managed to escape the rigorous demands of CLM training. So on the morning of Tues 8 Jun, the Junior Command Training Team (JCTT) deployed to Newquay (a little late thanks to the MT) on Ex JUNIOR SURF, an AT package organised by Sgt Craig Sykes.

Day one started off with a body boarding lesson on Fistral beach, now known as Nostril beach due to the amount of water inhaled by the team. After half an hour the team decided to stop using Shaun Ryder and his ‘groupies’

16th SIGNAL REGIMENT ELMPT

CO Lt Col AM Fallows Sgt Al Keenan also fought to move to JFCIS into the much RSM WO1 (RSM) G Sinclair coveted position of Watchkeeper.

HQ JFCIS(A) - by Capt Sam Harris The runners amongst JFCIS (A) took part in the eagerly anticipated Bastion 10 road race and although joking on the After finally relocating in Bastion, much to the dismay of HICSSS, surface, ‘competitive dad’ streaks came out between all. the R&R plot is in full swing and with the new instalment of IAs, the Chuff Charts are regularly out for everyone to see. Another As an attempt to tear individuals away from their computers, the shift of personnel has seen ‘the Adjt aka SO3 Co-ord, Capt Pete monthly range package went ahead seeing the majority of the Wright and Capt Bob Pace eventually make it out to theatre. staff only having to conduct confirmatory shoots. Capt Al

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 31 Campbell was particularly excited by this as due to his continued busily continuing to provide communications in support of efforts and hard work within JFCIS(A) it is difficult to tell if he has operations across Helmand Province. The deployment of 9 new been in the desert for the past 3 months from the colour of his mobile satellite capabilities (ORAS) to theatre has provided the skin alone. Bastion ICS Tp with an opportunity to see lots of Afghanistan during their installation. Providing Mission Secret communications (Laptops & VoIP Phones) to Coy Headquarters represents a huge step forward in capability which is helping to improve the passage of information around theatre.

R&R remains in full swing despite the Icelandic Volcano’s best efforts to cancel it and everyone looks forward to their break from the unrelenting heat of an Afghanistan summer. The next few months will see the Sqn heavily involved with the delivery of increased bandwidth across Helmand in the form of Project KESTREL and with light now at the end of the tunnel, planning for the handover to 246 Sig Sqn, 2 Sig Regt in August.

THE CP - by Pte Dunham

May has been a busy month for the HICSSS CP with the move of JFCIS to Bastion and the departure of S03 Projects W02 Clarke who has moved to RC (S) over in Kandahar. Capt Sam Harris and Capt Steve Bharat in FOB JUNO Capt Moody has taken the reigns for a couple of weeks whilst Under the pretence of ‘kestrel recces’ Capt Steve Bharat has Maj Scott takes two weeks well earned rest. As the picture managed to do his fair share of travelling, anything to get out of shows, there has been no impact on the team’s operational the office. A last minute decisions saw him accompanying Capt effectiveness. Sam Harris to FOB JUNO whilst she got out visiting her Tp. Keen to get a full insight into Det life they both helped climbing the mast, meeting the pets (including monkeys!) and even took part in some of the unbelievable phys sessions they have.

DAVID BECKHAM - by Cpl Dave Abbott

Former England captain David Beckham visited Afghanistan this month. He enthusiastically made his way round Camp Bastion meeting as many service personnel as possible. He only had two days here but they were two days that seemed to make a real difference around camp.

The HICSSS Ops Team

SSgt Jim O’Mahony (aka the Ops Cpl) has settled in well over the past month, fulfilling his job as the best paid man in charge of three printers, (one of which he decided to move – “Big Bertha” and broke).

W02 (SSM) Wheeler has been rushing around for the past couple of weeks trying to organise everything for the Bruggen 10 which everybody enjoyed and was a great success. He is now on his R&R after it being delayed for a day due to a rather large fire over at the American base, Camp Leatherneck, and is due to return in the next couple of days. Cpl Dave Abbott a little bit impressed with who he got to meet In a couple of weeks we will be saying a big goodbye to Pte Five members of JFCIS (A), Lt Col Fallows, Capt Campbell, Dunham who will be returning to Elmpt due to her Class 1 and WO1 White, WO2 Woodall and Cpl Abbott were lucky enough posting. She has recently been in hospital but thankfully she is to attend a specially laid on evening meal with him. back in work now and preparing to hand over to Pte McArthur who will be arriving at Camp Bastion in a couple of days. It’s fair to say that Beckham is a nice guy, he signed countless autographs and posed for even more photos, he even got in on We are well over half way into the tour now and everyone is the joke and helped Cpl Abbott mock Sig Shackleton for being continuing to work hard and looking forward to the challenges on R&R during his visit. ahead.

HELMAND ICS SIGNAL SQUADRON BASTION ICS TROOP HQ

HICSSS OC Maj Hervey Scott OC Lt Sam Brinkworth SSM WO2 (SSM) Dave Wheeler Tp SSgt SSgt Rob Shubert

Now past the half way point, the pace of life shows no signs of It has been a busy month for the ICS Tp, we have said goodbye slowing for HICSSS. The last few weeks have seen the Sqn to LCpl Webb who has returned to Elmpt and we have welcomed

32 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 LCpl Raikoso and Sig Brodie who have been thrust into the Mech Section. We have also seen the Tp strength rise to a staggering level of 66 Soldiers with one officer thanks to the addition of a small force of RAF. They have been re-allocated from Kandahar and have settled into the Tp well, although the look on their faces when told that PT was at 0600 three times a week was pure comedy genius!

Halfway through the tour and the tempo has not faltered, tasks continue to flow through Tp HQ down to the sections in a seemingly never ending stream. Lt ‘Schmuli’ Brinkworth, as he is sometimes called, is constantly throwing himself into the work of all the sections; he has even completed his training as a Class 4 Mech and can be sent on supervised jobs with the other Mechlets.

Amongst the busy schedule, the annual military training that is required has been started. This ensures that the Tps are at the SSgt Briggs (hanging) with the Troop peak of operational effectiveness! The PFT was slightly emotional but the Tp endured the warmer temperature and dust to complete FOB SANGIN - by LCpl Kott it; it was also nice to see the SSM take part. The Tp now readies themselves for the upcoming onslaught of work for the next Det IC Sgt Ian Robson month and glimmer of hope that is the continuance of R&R. Sangin’s ICS crew consists of Sgt ‘Robbo’ Robson the det LKG ICS TROOP - by Lt O’Toole commander and general Mr Fix It, LCpl ‘Dougie’ Douglas the only man I know who can manage to install back up power for OC Lt O’Toole the backup power, LCpl ‘Legend’ Kott, the geek who only Tp SSgt SSgt Paddy Briggs manages to see daylight 3 times a day and last but not least Sig ‘Reacher Boy’ Hobson whose technical knowledge on the At this stage in our time in Lashkar Gah we find ourselves busier equipment even surprises the Reacher maintenance team (not than ever as 4 Mech Bde looks to build on the tremendous hard seeing as they broke it when they were here last). momentum generated in Helmand province by the highly successful Op MOSHTARAK. Arriving immediately prior to this It’s been an extremely busy period for the det, with the handover operation, we undoubtedly benefitted from some serious deep- from 3 Rifles to 40 Cdo occurring in April where the usual end learning; we had almost no time at all to get a firm grip of our inexperience of operating the kit saw Sgt Robson deploying to new role as it became abundantly clear that we faced significant Patrol Base WHISTAN an as an unexpected birthday treat to fix a pressure to deliver amidst an extremely high operational tempo. faulty coax.

Now some months removed from this baptism of fire, we see that Other random acts of God have kept the crew working late on the Main Operating base in which we live and work has several occasions such as when our Reacher Antenna was undergone a tremendous amount of change since our arrival in slammed into the side of an ISO container by an over enthusiastic early February, and far more is on the way with the impending driver! Whilst we were sweeping up these pieces, the first arrival of the Marine Expeditionary Force Light Headquarters. SWE=DISH satellite was successful engineered in Helmand Key to all of this is the strategic communications provided by our province by Sgt Kenny Pybus and Sig Hobson as a backup link Tp, which allows for effective command and control throughout to the UK. Then, just as the antenna was fixed, it was broken both the camp and the wider region. The deployment has again courtesy of an American Osprey Aircraft which lifted the provided us with a number of significant challenges, some of antenna through 90 degrees. which have been overcome and others that still remain to be conquered. Without question the most significant difficulties we In preparation for US forces taking command of Sangin, our face are the environmental conditions found in this part of the Overtask equipment has recently been replaced with the newest world; searing heat and regular dust storms do their absolute capability to arrive in theatre. This has given the Battle Group four best to disrupt communications, but with dedication, attention to times the bandwidth they used to have and will undoubtedly detail and sometimes more than a little inventiveness we are able assist them with their Ops in this notoriously challenging part of to keep these forces of nature at bay…most of the time. Afghanistan. Hopefully the equipment and the crew are now fully prepared for whatever challenges the US forces throw at us (as Our main effort remains delivery of direct communications long as it’s not directed at the Reacher dish as it already has one support to Task Force Helmand HQ, and the high pressure bullet hole in it). working environment of the Bde staff ensures that we are constantly in demand. Additional to this we support both Combined Force Lashkar Gah and the Police Development Advisory and Training Team, both of which have come into being during our tenure. The operational significance of our role is a source of constant motivation as we strive to achieve the critical balance of providing new communications capability for the ever- growing requirements in our location, and maintaining the high standards that are already in place.

I am pleased to say that despite, or, as is far more likely, because of the highly demanding environment in which we work, morale has remained extremely high throughout; every member of the Tp has been utterly essential during our tour and will unquestionably continue to be so. At time of writing we are approaching the end of May and, just occasionally, we catch ourselves looking to towards our handover to 2 Sig Regt in August. The reality is that we still have much to achieve during our time; I guarantee we will LCpl Douglas trying to convince everyone that he knows what he look to do so with gusto. is doing

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 33 THE BRUGGEN 10 AT CAMP BASTION - by LCpl Gurung Over the past couple of months many of the patrols have been aimed at the hearts and minds and relations with the civilians who The Bruggen 10 is a charity run which takes place every year in live in the area surrounding Camp Souter. When out on patrol it Javelin Barracks. This year, it was also run here in Camp Bastion, is common for the guys to have a day sack containing water, organised by WO2 (SSM) Dave Wheeler, on the 15 May 2010. chocolate or other goodies that they can give out to the children In theatre we ran to raise money to help the orphans of who gather around them. The locals are friendly and Afghanistan. approachable which makes the job more enjoyable and a lot easier. One of the bigger projects the Multiples are involved in is Before the run started, the CO, Lt Col Fallows gave the opening Military Aid for Civilian Effect (MACE) led by Lt Andy Fitchett. brief in which he included a brief history of what Bruggen 10 was Projects have included humanitarian aid drops of food and all about and welcomed all the runners. clothing to the locals. SSgt Steve Carroll of the KSU LAD, gladly volunteered his guys to build a playground for the local school. There were more than 400 runners who took part including This turned a dusty rubble area into a place that the children soldiers from the US, Estonia and Denmark. The run started from could actually play. They have also constructed 40 blackboards the cookhouse, then to Bastion 2, and then 2 more laps around and numerous desks for the local schools. Bastion 1 and finished at the point where the run had started. The fastest runtime was 56 mins by 1LT Adam Crandall from the HRH PRINCE OF WALES VISIT TO AFGHANISTAN US Army with Capt Moody the first Brit home in 1hr 4 minutes. The slowest time was 1hr 56. There were a huge number of Souter Force Protection Company was requested to be forward participants from HICSSS with the remainder helping with the mounted at the British Embassy (BEK) in support of the VIP visit event admin. On completion of the run, the prizes were given to of HRH The Prince of Wales. After much discussion the Multiple all the winners from the CO of Camp Bastion and all the Commander of K10, Sgt Stu McCrone decided on the team. participants were given a Bruggen 10 t-shirt. Finally, the CO This was made up of Cpl Pete Roberts, Sigs Koli Naulago, Spik thanked all the runners and the organising team for hosting such Williams, Mick Upton, Sam Orme and Alex Henderson. a big event in the theatre. On arrival at BEK, the head of security briefed the QRF, whose role was to assist any of the ground mounted agencies if requested. By mid afternoon HRH had landed at the BEK and as the staff gathered in the embassy garden, K10 slipped into the VIP area and tried to blend in with the group of military personnel who work in the Embassy. On arriving at the garden, HRH headed straight to those in uniform for an in-depth chat about equipment assets and our role within Kabul. This amused K10 as they should not really have been there in the first place and got some envious looks off some of the disgruntled Embassy staff.

BRUGGEN 10 AT CAMP SOUTER

It was that time of year again and the slight hurdle of being on The breaking of dawn saw the start of the Bastion 10 Operations was not stopping members of the Regt based in Kabul participating in this prestigious annual event. After many SOUTER FORCE PROTECTION & TRANSPORT COMPANY - hours of planning and preparation, the day was upon us and after KABUL - OP HERRICK 12 a good nights sleep (only 2 hours for some) and with the sun peering over the mountains, runners from all over Northern OC Maj Bruce Scott Afghanistan, varying in nationality, gathered at the start line in SSM WO2 (SSM) Philip Korba Camp Souter (05:00hrs!). After a not so quick brief from the race organiser, SSgt (SQMS) Andy McMullan, they were off! Since arriving the lads have settled into routine and into the way of life here in Kabul. At last the rain and cold weather has gone An early lead was established by a Locally Employed Civilian yet and been replaced with long days of sun and a lot of red-looking he was soon cut down by a couple of ISAF members and our soldiers. Everyday involves the Multiples being either out on the very own SSgt Steve Carroll. Surprisingly Sgt Mickey Keers, road conducting driving details, escorting VIPs or on patrol who had been let out of the Ops Room for a couple of hours, was around the local villages. The vehicle patrols allow our Signallers up with the leading pack fighting it out with Sgt Chris Callaghan to get further away from Camp Souter and to experience the local and a few other members of the Regt. driving talent in full, which is non-existent. Apparently looking left and right before pulling out at a junction is not a requirement to pass the local driving test. The long laborious duties in Sangers is the Multiples’ home for 48 hours; 6 hours on, 6 hours off for 48 hrs every 6 days. The task itself means everyone stays out of the way of SSM Phil Korba to avoid some AGAI action.

Approximately two thirds into the race a clear favourite was emerging. A Belgian officer was starting to pull away with each lap and was looking unbelievably comfortable. A race within a race was starting to develop as the honour of ‘first from the Regt’

34 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 started to enter the runners’ minds. SSgt Carroll and Sgt Callaghan were starting to battle it out between themselves for first place. The Belgian Officer crossed the finishing line in a time of 60 mins and 42 secs followed by the first member of the Regt, SSgt Carroll in a respectable time of 64 mins destroying Sgt ‘PTI’ Callaghan.

No such battle was fought in the female competition as Sig Amy Mason blasted home in first place, with a staggering time of 78mins and lapping all the PTI wannabes (well done Amy, better luck next time lads). SSgt McMullan seemed to take great pleasure using the mega phone to remind individuals of how many laps they had remaining.

RC (S) SIGNAL SQUADRON DEPLOYABLE TROOP

OC Lt David Samuel Hoare Malortie Tp SSgt SSgt Richie Savage In order for Sgt ‘Jai’ Falinski and Sgt ‘Scotty’ Scott to keep tabs Better late than never a big welcome to Cpl Dave Burford, Sig on the baby Techs they have wired up the Camp CCTV to track Gaz Fortune, Sig Toni Turner and Sgt Steve McNally. Having them down been stuck at Brize Norton for a week they managed to eventually arrive in KAF. The Tp is well spread amongst the AO Sgt Falinski, Sgt Scott and LCpl ‘Johno’ Johnston have shared and with the start of the R&R plot many people are moving deployments to LKG, FOB Walton and ‘Holiday’ Camp Nathan around. Sig Craig Metcalfe has arrived back from Budwan and Smith to set up comms for General Hodges and his team. On an is freezing in the aircon as he hasn’t had any for two months. arduous trip to Camp Nathan Smith the team even had an With his long hair and dark tan he is looking like one of the locals, opportunity to test out the swimming pool. Much to LCpl minus only the beard. At this point the Tp are half way through Johnston’s dismay Sgt Falinski did a no show, which meant he their 6 month tour and are still busy supporting the Multi National, could not go into the pool as you had to have a minimum of 2 Quadlat Sig Sqn, HQ RC (S). people before you were allowed in. LCpl Masterson is pretty much always in the Command Joint Operations Centre fixing FAX TESTING FOR THE ANA - by Cpl D Button cables and getting things up and running again; this has given him plenty of late working nights. Sgt Ryan and Cpl Button have been out and about testing fax machines for the ANA. This has involved travelling from With just under half of the tour left, we look forward to much of Kandahar throughout Afghanistan. There have been many the same as the last 3 months, only hotter, and probably more reports of 2 locals wearing British uniforms as the pair of them cleaning (as I imagine with the heat will come dust and this will have been sunbathing at every helipad trying to get a lift to their irritate Sgt Falinski to no end). next location. SST LKG Sgt Ryan has been heard to say “when the war is over I would like to take the lads on an Exped over some of the mountains of SST Comd Cpl Jenifer Blackburn Afghanistan because it’s a very pretty country”. Ok John, but be careful of those land mines and you might be a bit too old by This month we said farewell to Sgt Liza Neary and welcomed then? Cpl Jenny Blackburn. Despite the vicious rumours we had heard about her ‘nasty side’, she maintained her ‘cool’ as long as we were always on time!

Each week ‘the idiot of the week’ is organised by the 230 ICS Det. Cpl Blackburn started a campaign to put Sig Dave Patterson up for this prestigious award. However, she ended up getting a little bit excited about the whole thing and being labelled ‘idiot of the week’ herself!!

We also had to say another farewell to LCpl Stevie Baxter when he left for his R&R, leaving only myself and Cpl Blackburn on our own to tackle the demanding tasks we have on here at SST4 LKG. To date, however, we haven’t found ourselves in any situation that my IS expertise couldn’t get us out of. We were not alone for long though as Cpl Dave Burford soon arrived with Sig Toni Turner.

SST TARIN KOWT

SST Comd LCpl Richie Kearney TECHNICAL SUPPORT TEAM COMD - Sgt ‘Jai’ Falinski As we draw close to the end of the month and the end of my time Contrary to popular belief the Technical Support Team has had a in TK, all equipment is actually working as it should for the first busy few months in Afghanistan. When we arrived we realised time since I arrived. I take this time to climb on top of the office, that the Server, Exchange and Promina courses we had all as I have done a few times now, and take in the amazing view. In attended before deployment were going to be very beneficial to every direction I look there are mountains; some of the tallest in our team. We discovered that our main focus for the next 6 the far distance have now lost their white dusting of snow at the months would be to install and maintain the BFBS network on very peak, but they still look magnificent nonetheless. I then face HQ RC(S). We have now perfected our skills in scaling ladders in a north-westerly direction and have a great view of the town of and making wire loop antennas. We have renamed the TST to Tarin Kowt itself that is in the green zone surrounding the river Television Support Team. that flows down from the mountains and trails off into the

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 35 distance towards the north. I start to find it a shame leaving this The ICS detachment continue to excel in the Saturday night quiz location knowing that back down in the south the best view to at HQ ISAF, coming first or second most weeks, apart from one expect is barren desert! week recently which we need not mention. The OC ICS Det Capt Emma ‘Trekkie’ Thomas really came into her own when the Star HAMAL TROOP – ICS KABUL Trek questions rolled out.

OC Capt Emma Thomas Comms are pretty solid and morale is high. HOTO notes are Tp SSgt SSgt Ian Wells starting to be written and we look forward to finding out the names of our replacements in 2 Sig Regt, more so to be able to The Tp has now endured 3 months of ICS support in Kabul, answer any questions they may have regarding their forthcoming maintaining Comms in 3 different HQs around the city. We are tour than to feel closer to the light at the end of the tunnel. now in the throes of a well deserved R & R period, with some soldiers benefiting from the act of God, which was the ash cloud. SOinC VISITS 16 SIGNAL REGIMENT REAR PARTY SSgt Kenny Bryan and LCpl Carla Sims are now confirmed as - by Lt Osabwa back in theatre after a few days in a 5 star hotel in Cyprus, a business class flight from Cyprus to Spain, a luxury cruise from 16 Sig Regt had the pleasure of hosting the SOinC(A), Brigadier Spain to the UK and chauffeur driven limo to the destination of Ted Flint, during his final visit to BFG troops as the Head of the their choice; they arrived home late, but in good spirits. Royal Corps of Signals.

The weather is heating up nicely in Kabul, still 10 degrees lower than Helmand, and no better excuse than Reacher maintenance to grab a couple of hours in the sun, out of sight and out of mind. With the better weather upon us a BBQ was organised by the SOF on KAIA (N) and was welcomed with open arms by Sgt Baz Lawes, Cpl Mike Paynter and Cpl Bhupal Gurung. Surprisingly just about the whole British community of KAIA turned up for the event even though it was on the same day as the Army v Navy rugby game. This resulted in everyone turning up for the burnt cardboard flavoured food, before heading straight off to catch the game on BFBS. The organised non-alcoholic drinking games had consequently been abandoned.

LCpl Kat Beaver has taken it upon herself to run spinning classes twice a week during her down time after we received 10 new spinning bikes which needed to squeeze inside the gymnasium at camp Souter. Interest in spinning diminished somewhat this past week though, as all eyes were on the Bruggen 10 road race which encompassed 11 laps around the ISO park on Souter. Thirteen of the Tp competed in the race with LCpl John Dickson heading the pack with a very reputable 26th place. SOinC with 16 Sig Regt Welfare staff

The SOinC spent time in the welfare office, where he was introduced to the welfare staff and their roles. Capt Shaun Wilson gave a detailed brief of the unit’s welfare policies and its role within the Regt. Work of particular interest was that of Sgt Elaine Witcomb who has developed a Regtl website and SMS service which allows families to keep in touch with their loved ones. While talking to Mrs Dallene Lowes, the SOinC spoke of his understanding about the extra work that comes with a deployment. With a cup of tea and a slice of cake, he was given a breakdown of upcoming functions & trips planned for the families until the Regts return in August.

Bruggen 10 the KBL way Injuries are a worry out here, not through contact situations, but rather football matches instead. LCpl Russell Ward is currently on crutches as he fell over playing football and damaged the ligaments in his ankle. He claimed he was tackled but we believe he couldn’t handle any more Sangar duties. One person who has particularly enjoyed the last couple of weeks is Sig Griffiths. He has had a hard time squeezing everything in recently, first he finds himself on a Multi-National range day with SSgt Ian Wells firing all sorts of foreign weapons, then he went off on a helicopter ride with the Australian SF boys for his birthday, which incidentally isn’t until August. Oh and when you see him, ask him to tell you the correct way his weapon should point on a chopper! The Welfare Officer Capt Wilson briefing the big boss!!

36 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 The visit also allowed the Brigadier to meet soldiers from the Germany Based Element while they were conducting pre- deployment training. The 9 personnel were about to join the rest of the Regt on Op HERRICK 12 as part of a Surge Team. He also met and spoke to soldiers who had recently returned from Op HERRICK while attached to 1 (UK) Armd Div HQ and Sig Regt. The Brigadier took a keen interest in what the soldiers had been doing, speaking at length to both those who had recently returned from tour, as well as those who had been left behind.

The SOinC commented on the importance of a well-balanced and focused rear party, whose hard work and achievements can easily be forgotten and overshadowed by the activities of the deployed troops. He reminded the soldiers of the importance and need to maintain high standards not only within the Corps but across all Arms.

Before leaving the Tp the SOinC had time to quiz 2Lt Kate Flecchia on her knowledge of bird species; which was found to be wanting. It was apparent that she needed to take up the hobby!! Everyone was encouraged by the Brigadier’s visit and we The spirit of the Lord!! - Sig VH with his French mates look forward to seeing how they develop and progress over the Coaches waited in straight lines for the short journey to our four- coming months. star hotel which was well located in the town of colourful tourist shops, street cafes and smiling strollers heading to or returning from the holy sites.

The Military band sounded in the distance, preparing the British contingent for its march to the grotto. Croatian swordsmen in full dress followed their bishop, while Spanish soldiers proudly displayed their feathered caps in formation. The Procession for Mary got under way with the singing of the de facto anthem of Lourdes, “Ave Maria”.

The three-day pilgrimage included an International Mass, an English language outdoor Mass led by US Archdiocese for the Military Services, Archbishop Timothy Broglio, and a candlelight procession attended by most of the pilgrims. Other events featured colour guards and ceremonial units from each participating country. The AGC Band represented the British delegation during daily ceremonies. Even though Cpl McGinley tried her hardest, the SOinC could still see her On the trip back, there were more stories to tell, uniforms and cap badges to exchange, experiences to share and vows to 52ND INTERNATIONAL MILITARY PILGRIMAGE return in the future. It was a wonderful trip — so consider next - by Lt Osabwa years’. The miracle of Lourdes is worth it. LOURDES, France — Led by Lt Pristone Osabwa, soldiers from 16 Sig Regt Germany Based Element joined Father Pascal Hanrahan for the 52nd International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes. More than 15,000 military personnel from over 30 nations descended upon this village in southern France from 19 - 24 May 10. They had at least 2 things in common; their Catholic faith and an affiliation with military service.

During this annual event service members, veterans and their families travel to Lourdes to worship and to visit the site where many believe a young girl, Bernadette, was visited by an apparition of the Virgin Mary in 1858.

As the story goes, the apparition came to Bernadette in the Grotto and told the girl to pray, repent, drink from and bathe in the waters of the spring. Many believe the waters of the spring have healing powers and make the pilgrimage to experience a healing of their own. It was the wounds of the Second World War which the French and German forces sought to heal in the very first International Military Pilgrimage.

We met the German troop train at Koln station. It was fitted with sleeping compartments ideal for the 26 hour journey. The meandering route through the scenic south of France provided a picture-perfect backdrop for stories of past pilgrimages, making new friends (or plenty of acquaintances in the case of Sig Vrioni-Hymonas) and seeing the blur of town names on boards in the stations. Late on the second day, we arrived in Lourdes. 16 Sig Regt soldiers keeping in step with the help of the AGC band

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 37 21st SIGNAL REGIMENT (AIR SUPPORT) COLERNE

CO Lt Col G N Addley OP TOSCA - by Sig Richards RSM WO1 (RSM) A McBean A month has passed since myself, Sig Richards, plus Sig Collett The Regt is now well into the training phase for deploying as a and Sig Parish arrived here in sunny Cyprus with West Tp as part Campaign Sig Regit in June next year and we are seeing plenty of the 40 Sig Regt (V) deployment. We are based at the Ledra of welcome new arrivals here at Colerne. This doesn’t mean that Palace Hotel in Nicosia (believe me, it is no palace, but could be the fun has stopped and we have seen soldiers and officers worse!) We have each settled well into our respective sections getting away on sport and AT on a regular basis and in March we and routine and are enjoying the patrols we are on. In our AOs celebrated some of these achievements at our Annual we are lucky enough to have a lot of spectacular views of the Sportsperson’s Dinner. We have also had time to support the Air open countryside. There have not been many incidents to deal Formation Signals Association with whom we are proud to have with as of yet from our AO’s of Bengal and Falcon but we are such a strong and enduring relationship. We look forward over certainly looking forward to putting the hard training we the next few months to honing our military and communications underwent back in Magilligan, Northern Ireland into practice. skills whilst still making time to enjoy Army life! The area we patrol is known for having incidents that involve, 43 (WESSEX) SIGNAL SQUADRON (V) amongst other things, joy riding, hunting, fly tipping, construction violations, over-manning of OPFOR OP’s, land grabbing, OC Maj KRJ Smith unauthorised access to the BZ - even unauthorised asparagus SSM WO2 (SSM) S Shanahan pickers, and recently while on patrol I came across two elderly gentlemen collecting snails to eat... When out patrolling, other Over the last few months all the management newbie’s have than when on foot, we use four wheel drive vehicles or bikes – transited in and started life in the hectic land of 43 Sqn, 21 Sig the latter need new seats as after a 4-hour patrol you end up Regt - get used to it as nothing will change for the next 2 years!! walking like John Wayne.

Welcomes to the following: We have just passed The Chief of Staff, Col Hughes’ inspection with flying colours and so a traditional barbeque and party was OC – Major Kev Smith from 71 (Y) Sig Regt , no more blankets our reward. A band has been formed whilst we have been here to count! PSAO – Captain John Ledgister from 1 Rifles. We and they provided our entertainment for the night. About halfway always knew you secretly wanted to be in the Signals! SSM – through the night the heavens opened and this resulted in topless WO2 Sean Shanahan from one floor above in FAC Tp. Is it true dancing (males only) and all out silliness. A good night was had you spend more time in the TA Centre than you do at work? and it was just what we all needed, though there were a few sore heads the next day. On the horizon we have got Armed Forces Weekends, recruiting campaigns, PT and more PT, followed by PT. As for the future, Recently there have been elections in the north of Cyprus and the well more PT I say!! A final word of thank you for all your efforts previous president Mehmet Ali Talat has been replaced by Derviþ must go to WO2 John Cameron who has swapped posts with Eroðlu of the TRNC (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus), so we WO2 Shanahan, more to follow below. are waiting to see if this change will have any visible effects in the area. BRIGADIER BEACOM VISIT - by LCpl Lye We are currently working towards the Force Commander Rear A familiarisation lesson on the PRC 346 radio was on the Sqn’s Admiral M D Sanchez’s inspection - if we pass this we will be agenda for drill night on Wednesday 14 April 2010. The training able to go out into town at night! as usual was thorough, interesting and practical with lots of opportunity to get hands on the kit. Following the theory lesson We are not allowed to take photographs as we patrol the Buffer we began the practical using headsets and handsets and before Zone, but hope to gather some photos for our next report. long a special visitor came to oversee us, Brig Beacom, senior TA Royal Signals Officer. After a presentation and a tour of the EXERCISE LOST PATROL - by Sgt Ives TA centre, Brig Beacom was brought down to the garages to witness the evening’s training. Imagine talking into the radio After completing a six hour navex on foot across Salisbury Plain whilst a Brigadier looks on! It was a little daunting to say the in full CEFO and CBA (thank you for that SSgt Jackson), we had least. We needn’t have worried though as afterwards the Brig our final location in sight and reflected on the events of the day spoke to us all, taking an interest in as we tabbed in the last few hundred our role and what we do outside of meters. We had faced RPG attacks, the TA. treated several casualties and assisted in the recovery of a broken down Land The end of evening parade saw a Rover, as well as sending constant medal presentation: Maj Al White sitreps to HQ. The biggest battle we (OC FAC Tp), Cpl Salter (FAC) and had won was against the weather: Cpl Curtis received medals for Op although the wind was building up and Herrick and a VRSM. The highlight the clouds were black with the threat of was WO2 (RQMS) Beeley receiving a rain, we had been spared. Looking at Commander JHC commendation. the barn ahead we could only imagine Never has it been so easy to get a what delights awaited us, as that crate out of him! Thanks RQ. evening we were dining out our outgoing Sergeant-Major WO2 (SSM) The evening ended with a sumptuous John Cameron. In the middle of our fine venue for the night, a disused barn, curry buffet, giving us a chance to Brig Beacom presenting WO2 (RQMS) Beeley with his were several tables topped with crisp talk to the Brig in a more relaxed Commander JHC commendation environment. white table cloths and silver

38 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 candelabras, each holding three cyalumes (nice touch SSgt arrival at King Faisel Air Base the detachment quickly set about Kendall). We were all seated for our three course meal of soup, installing the communications infrastructure for the HQ Staff and lamb or chicken curry with rice, naan bread and poppadoms the Ground to Air communications capability. followed by dessert of profiteroles and coffee with mints (SSgt Rowlands, as always your food out-performed most restaurants). As with a number of other overseas ex’s that the Sqn is After some kind words from OC 43 Sig Sqn it was time for SSM committed to in support of JHC, Ex DESERT VORTEX gave Bravo Cameron to say goodbye to the troops that he had served with Tp an insight to and good practice for their deployment to for 6 years. We wish him all the best in his new role as FAC SSM. Afghanistan early next year. While many had deployed on a similar ex to Kenya, for those who didn’t, Cpl Bevan gave RUGBY CORPS 7’S - by LCpl James Young guidance on the subtle changes in voice and flight following procedure required when working with the RAF. Cpl Grimes took The Regt had been entered into the corps 7 this year in an the lead in providing comms to the training areas out of reach attempt to retain the Cup. LCpl Kyle Routley and I were asked to from the HQ by deploying a 2 man remote link with satcomms form a team and organise some training which can be quite hard back to HQ to overcome the difficult terrain. SSgt ‘Scotty’ when 4 people turn up due to other commitments, but at such Robinson and Cpl ‘Busta’ Grimes valiantly stepped forward to short notice can be expected. Nevertheless after some digging work outdoors in the great tanning weather but their enthusiasm we gathered a team and travelled to Blandford to defend our title. was curbed by a number of near miss nights out in the desert due to grounded aircraft. Our first match was against 11 Sig Regt A side, a team of young whipper snappers who gave us a little scare and made the team In addition to providing the flight following capability, the Tp work hard for the win. A team talk from player/coach SSgt Jase deployed with Sgt ‘Dolly’ Parton, attached from 22 Sig Regt, to Wood and Sgt Sean Thomas gave us the little kick we deserved provide J1/J4 support. He was kept busy with the inevitable and we went into the next game more confident and turned over teething problems in such a climate. During the sustainment a very inexperienced 1 Div. The pick of the try in the game came phase there was scope for the men to ride in the aircraft. Cpl from Sig Daz Brown who, when over the line in the corner for a Roberts was the first to volunteer, getting the chance to fire the certain score, decided to make the kicking duties easier for Chinook’s chain guns on the ranges. Hearing how much fun it himself pirouetting round 2 would be tacklers to go over under was, Sig Jamie Young volunteered, but soon regretted it once it the sticks. The move was that good it should have been in a changed it’s course to the valleys to practice low flying at speed Westend production of the Sugarplum Fairy. Our third game where he spent the majority of the journey with his head in a sick came against 3 Div and again the team pull off another bag. convincing win, Sig Navlivou using his silky slick skills to toy with the 3 Div defence and score a couple of trys. In addition, our big The Tp had some time off, enjoying day trips to Aqaba and Petra, unit Cpl Symington, who after our own kick off gathered the ball one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Both trips provided an and set off in what can only be described as “galloping” finish excellent opportunity to unwind. Sig McNulty was on the first under the posts. The final group game was against a strong 18 visit and he returned with the thoughtful review of “it’s just some Sigs Regt side, our team was in the zone at this point and killed rocks and stuff. Once you’ve seen one rock you’ve seen them off the threat quite quickly through some good individual skills all”. Overall, however, it was an excellent opportunity that was from Sgt Mike Secker and Sig Lloyd with his barnstorming runs enjoyed by most. from the flanks. With Bravo Tp starting pre-deployment training in September, this The group stages had finished and the semis were now on the exercise has been entirely beneficial for the development and cards, our opposition was 10 Sig Regt. Time was off the essence training of the Tp and developing the working relationship to get this game played as one of our players, Lt Andy McGrane, between RAF Benson, RAF Odiham and 244 Sig Sqn. had a very important “meeting” to attend around about the time the game was about to finish. 10 Sig Regt gave us our toughest test and in one particular moment I gave the best hospital pass to Sgt Secker whose ribs were exposed to a very grateful Fijian. I now owe him a beer for that. 10 Sig Regt did have us against the ropes and battled well but again after another great half time talk we got back to our best and won, though saying that Lt McGrane thought he was playing rugby league 7’s at times, but with the ball in his hands was playing like a back not a forward.

We were in the final and again pitted against the 11 Sig Regt A side, whom we beat in the group stages. With the touch line packed with supporters we turned on the skill and some amazing darting runs from LCpl Qasevatni finished off our opponents. Towards the end of the game we thought it would be a good idea to sub Sgt Secker as he ran his socks off and deserved a rest with myself coming on as his replacement I was on the field for no longer than 20 seconds and was subbed back again by the man himself. I think he wanted the glory for himself. The final whistle went and again we retained our title.

The whole day was a huge success and we made a point on EXERCISE BEAUFIGHTER THUNDER - by Sgt J Binnie reaching the final from the word go and did that to a very high standard. Some great rugby was played and some great Ex Beaufighter Thunder, the Regtl Battle Camp took place individual skill was also on display to see. Every player did between the 20 - 28 May 2010. The first 2 days of the ex saw all themselves proud on the day and we look forward to going back Regtl personnel take part in classroom based lessons in order to next year to win the competition again. remind and revise some of the military skills that may not have been as fresh in the minds as they could have been. The EXERCISE DESERT VORTEX (JORDAN) - by Lt J Mortimer Saturday morning saw all exercising troops deploy to Caerwent to start developing some of those newly refreshed skills in a field Bravo Tp deployed to Jordan on Ex DESERT VORTEX 10 in training environment, a programme that proved to be particularly support of JHC. The main aim of the ex was to complete terrain testing due to the sudden heat wave that swept over South specific training for the Merlin and Chinook aircrews. Upon Wales.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 39 On completion of the 2 day training and consolidation phases the After a short break, the Corps Marches were played and SSgt exercising troops were split into two groups for the FTX, half (SSI) Blake showed us how the PT Corps stand up for theirs with remaining at Caerwent under the direction of the Training Officer, some lovely gymnastics on his chair! Each OIC Sport put forward Capt Markendale, with the remainder packing up and moving to their nomination for Sportsperson of the Year. As always the CO Longmoor Training Area under the watchful eye of the RTWO, gave his speech and congratulated all those awarded their WO2 Robinson. Regimental Colours and then went on to announce the winner. The runner up was Cpl Chris Day, who had excelled at the Corps The FTX provided a chance to not only test the troops on the Skiing Championships held in 2009 and the previous year. The ground in the skills and drills they had practised over the previous winner of Regimental Sportsperson of the Year 2010 went to a few days, but also gave an opportunity to exercise an Ops team person who had finally achieved their ambition of becoming within each location. Everything from FOB routine and Captain of an Army sports team and continuing to represent the deployment of patrols, to incident management and IDF attack Combined Services at Basketball. They also represented the drills were managed from within the FOB’s, ensuring maximum Regt at various sports throughout the year. This person was training benefit was gained across all ranks. none other than the author of these notes, Cpl Lou Binnie. No words can explain winning this award and the only words I could muster were “if you work hard at your goals you will achieve them”. Overall the evening was a success and enjoyed by all those who attended, lets hope things are as good or if not better next year and lets bring home another win for the ladies.

FOB Harry (Longmoor Training Area)

The ex as a whole gave an opportunity to assess the current standard of military skills across the whole Regt prior to moving into the role of a CSR. The high level of enthusiasm and hard work, combined undoubtedly with the good weather conditions led to a successful and enjoyable ex. Regimental Sportsperson of the Year – Cpl Lou Binnie – receives her award from the Commanding Officer

AIR FORMATION SIGNALS ASSOCIATION REUNION - by LCpl Reynolds

On Saturday 9 May, Sgt Phil Eaves, LCpl James Young, LCpl Ash Reynolds and Sig Mark Washington represented the Regt at the Air Formation Signals Association reunion dinner in Southport. The affectionately dubbed ‘Old Boys’ made us very welcome from the moment we arrived. The Chairman, Dr David Vickers, had invited us to attend their AGM and we gladly accepted. This gave us an insight into their activities over the past year and their plans for the year ahead. It was here that we accepted the invite to join their charity ‘Everyone’s a Winner’ raffle, where each person buys and receives a present (to the value of £5). Ten minutes and one high street sweep later, we returned with an assortment of treasures, each of us convinced that ours would be picked first!

Sgt Lafferty debriefs the Immediate Response Team Twenty minutes and one change parade later we were in No.2’s dress stood in the hotel bar having pre-dinner drinks. It was here REGIMENTAL SPORTSPERSON’S DINNER - by Cpl Binnie that we got a real flavour of what the association was about, as the Vice Chairman Dennis ‘Johnny’ Elgan told us the first of 21 Sig Regt (AS) held a formal dinner on 31 March 2010 in the many entertaining stories from his time in the Corps. During the WO & Sgt’s Mess to honour the sporting achievements within the dinner the Association presented the Regt with a beautiful Silver Regt over the last two years. The evening began with welcome Chinook to commemorate the unit’s safe return from OP TELIC. drinks and the usual fire and “don’t go there” briefs. Once the Sig Washington, one of the Regts last soldiers to leave Iraq, CO, Lt Col Addley arrived the top table took their places received the presentation piece and Sgt Eaves graciously followed by everyone else. After grace the meal began. In thanked our hosts while pitching his talents as an after dinner between courses, SSgt (SSI) Blake used various clips of sporting speaker. music for us to guess the sport and to see whether or not the OIC’s were paying attention. At the same time there was a raffle After the meal came the raffle; Sgt Eaves was pleased to see his (with superb prizes) and a sport quiz being played between the £5 worth of scratch cards chosen first, LCpl Reynolds helped tables. out LCpl Young by selecting his ‘giant TV remote’ but it was Sig Washington who couldn’t quite comprehend how nobody saw Each OIC sport highlighted the achievements of individuals/team the attraction in his shot glass chess game! Wine flowed and over the last two years handing out Regimental Colours to those stories continued in to what we collectively agreed to be fantastic who had excelled. A good number of the Regt now have a blue night. Many thanks to our hosts, the Air Formation Signals running jacket which will be awesome for PT in the winter. Association.

40 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 at the sight of the formidable 50m pool (yes it really is more daunting than the modest 25m pool we used for training).

The male team, captained by the ever inspirational Sgt Beckett finished a respectable 7th overall despite being disqualified from the 4 x 50m Medley Relay, Sig Sharman being cruelly judged to have started too early. Fine individual performances from Cfn Bodley (100m Backstroke) and LCpl Caan Berry (4 x 50m IM), both finishing 3rd in their events helped rescue some pride for the team.

With the Adjt Capt Shipley leading the female team, they were destined for glory, and they did not disappoint. Superb individual swims from LCpl Backhouse (50m Backstroke) who finished first and Capt Shipley (50m Freestyle) and LCpl Delauro (50m Sgt Philip Eves, Sig Mark Washington, Sig Ash Reynolds and LCpl James Young with Chairman Breaststroke) who both finished second, (Dr David Vickers) and Secretary (Mr Dennis Egan) along with good all round relay swims saw the female team finish second overall to qualify for the Army Inter Unit Championships. Special mention must go to Cpl Jude Rawlyk for stepping in at the last moment and swimming the gruelling 4 x 50m Individual Medley, much to the relief of LCpl Backhouse.

Sig Washington receives the Silver Chinook on behalf of the Regt 4 DIV SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS 2010 - by LCpl Campbell

The 11 and 12 May 2010 saw the 4 Div Swimming and Water Polo Championships take place at the Aldershot Garrison Sports The 21 Sig Regt (AS) Female Swimming Team – 4 Div Runners Up Centre. 21 Sig Regt had entered male and female teams with high hopes of qualifying for the Army Inter Unit Championships. Wednesday the 12th saw the inexperienced male water polo team take to the pool, with only LCpl Vale, Cfn Bodley and LCpl Tuesday morning started with a wake up call for the not so ready Berry ever having played before. The competition was split into 3 Sig Sharman, who decided he was too good to walk to the mini pools of three teams, with the winner of each pool going into a bus pick up point and that he might swim better with an extra few winners’ pool. We were drawn against 2 very good teams and minutes shut eye. Once all members were accounted for it was our first game saw us play 3 RSME, narrowly losing 4-3, LCpl off to Aldershot, where a few of the team members were stunned Vale scoring all 3 of our goals. Those of us that were new to the sport left the pool wondering where our next breath would come from, realising that water polo is not for the faint hearted. 3 RSME then lost 2-4 to AMD, which meant we needed to win our second game against AMD by two goals in order to progress to the winners’ pool. Sadly this was not to be and we were beaten 3-1 in a lively game by the team that would go on to a winner takes all game in the winners’ pool against 11 Sig Regt. 11 Sig Regt went on to win that game 5-3 and our congratulations go to them.

A truly exhausting 2 days were enjoyed by all those who took part and the male water polo team and female swimming team have it all to look forward to again in June The 21 Sig Regt (AS) Swimming & Water Polo Teams at the Army Inter Unit Championships.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 41 22nd SIGNAL REGIMENT STAFFORD

CO Lt Col S Nesmith The final phase was recovery. As soon as the main ex play was RSM WO1 (RSM) Pritchard concluded and endex was called, the tps carried out correct close down procedure and recovered back to camp before 217 SIGNAL SQUADRON completing a full turn around.

OC Maj Byfield All in all everyone worked hard and each individual played a vital SSM WO2 (SSM) Preece role to make this exercise a success. At the same time everyone learnt new things and gained more experience. More importantly, EXERCISE HOPTON CENTAUR 1 - by Sig Amrit Ale all the training delivered was relevant to the Royal Corps of Signals and focused on the contemporary operational Ex HOPTON CENTAUR 1 was a Tp level FTX, based on Royal environment. Signals Collective Training Level One (CT1) for Alpha Troop 217 Sig Sqn. The ex was conducted over the period of 17 - 21 May 2010 at MOD Stafford and Swynerton Training Area (STA). The aim of the ex was to train and test individuals as well as the tp on CT1 Training Objectives (TOs).

Comprehensively coordinated by Sgt Gyanendra, the exs were conducted in 4 phases. Phase one was the trg on both Comms eqpts and BCCS. On day one all detachments (Bowman and RICHELIEU) were tested, and the theory lessons as well as practical lessons were delivered by the Det Comds. The second day involved the tp embarking upon all manners of BCCS lessons and demonstrations, which were mainly conducted within the Swynerton Training Area. The main lessons ranged from local defence, vehicle anti-ambush drills and C-IED drills, to deployed health force protection, managing a medical scene and detaining a captured person. Alpha Troop, 217 Signal Squadron

The second phase was deployment and establishment of the HQ, EXERCISE DANDA CHADNE DRAGON (YORKSHIRE 3 PEAKS) ICS and Defence. On the third day of the ex as soon as the weapons and Crypto were collected, Sgt Gyanendra delivered a On a sunny 27 April, personnel from 217 Sig Sqn departed comprehensive Ex Order to the tps, followed by a tactical move Beacon Barracks for a spot of hill walking in the Dales. The walk to the ex location (STA). Once the objective was secured, was based on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge, which involves Section One under command of Cpl Shagar, established comms reaching the summit’s of Pen Y Gent (694m), Whernside (728m) and built elements of HQ (SWE, helpdesk, life support, CP). At and Ingleborough (723m). On arrival at Halton Training Camp (our the same time Section Two under command of Cpl Judbir base for the trip) we met up with the WO2 (SSM) Preece. He established the local defence around the HQ utilizing available briefed us on the finer details of camp admin and the next day’s defence stores. By the end of the day, the HQ was fully activity, after which the time was our own. established with ICS facilities and defence elements i.e. gun positions, VCP, obstacles etc. The morning of the 28th was an early one, breakfast at 0600 and on the road by 0630. After an hour drive we arrived at the start of The third phase, on day 4 was the main ex play day, where the our 18 mile walk, Horton in Ribblesdale. The first peak Pen-Y- sections went through various scenario based ex serials. These Gent was in view. At 0735 we set off on what was to be quite a serials were designed to test individuals on both comms and physically demanding day. Sig Yogesh set the pace and with military skills. This phase proved to be of real value to JNCOs thighs burning, everyone reached the summit within an hour (the and PNCOs as they all had the opportunity to lead the section on estimate was 90 mins). After a short break and the obligatory each ex serial. During the day, the tps were visited by the CO Lt summit photo we headed back down to Horton. Col SPM Nesmith, RSM and OC Sqn Maj Byfield.

The Troop briefs the CO and RSM A rest on the summit

42 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 After a short drive we arrived at the start of the ascent of We woke up the next day raring to go, with sea kayaking on the Whernside. This was the longest of the 3 to complete; the slow agenda. We arrived at the beach, put on our wetsuits and off we steady climb is 6km to the top. After another photo it was a nice went into the ocean. Unfortunately paddling in and out of the walk downhill to an Inn at Chapel-le-Dale. We had a break for an rough seas was too much for Sig Glasby who ‘doesn’t get sea hour, time enough for some food and drink. Then it was straight sick’. However, with the previous night taking its toll he managed into the last leg to Ingleborough. Though this was the shortest to be sick over himself. His bad luck did not end there, he then leg, the walk turned into a climb and was tough going, arriving at realised he had been kayaking for 2 hrs with the coat hanger still the summit was a great relief. in his spray jacket and was duly awarded ‘Div of the Day’ for his efforts.

WO2 (SSM) Preece checks his bearings!

Having had the final photo we all headed down to the town of 222 Climbing collision Ingleton, found a café, and treated ourselves to coffee and cake. Many thanks to Capt Kedar our now departed OpsO for The rest of the week consisted of hill walking and mountain biking organising a fantastic trip. Reflecting on the day’s activity, it was and on the Friday a group of us went sea fishing. Burnt to a crisp tiring but enjoyable, and the weather was perfect - I for one and with a boat full of fish we headed to the bar to cook what we would be happy to do it again. caught. The chefs had organised a BBQ and Hog Roast for the evening meal which complimented the fish that we had caught. 222 SIGNAL SQUADRON

OC Maj Rodger SSM WO2 (SSM) Fraser

EXERCISE WHITE DRAGON - by Sig Thorbinson

Silly o’clock on a perfectly decent weekend, we were made to get on the most uncomfortable minibus to travel to an island north of France known as the Isle of Wight.

My group consisted of Capt ‘Dusty’ Miller, 2Lt ‘Petal’ Rose, Cpl Jones, LCpl Budgen, LCpl Broxton, Sig Graham, Sig Glasby and Pte Elwood. The activities started first thing Monday morning and off we all went to the rock climbing wall under the instruction of LCpl Prince and LCpl Nairn. That evening we visited a SSAFA house which is of the main charities 222 Sig Sqn support. They were kind enough to lay on a BBQ and a few beers along with a tour of the facilities at the care home. A Sig Thorbinson - she’s a beauty number of the Sqn have now provisionally booked their places at the home in preparation for later life. The next day after some tidying up we handed the camp back and prepared ourselves for that gruelling journey back on the mini buses and a weekend at home.

EXERCISE HOPTON GUARDIAN

On a spring morning, 222 Sig Sqn deployed to Swynerton training area to conduct a 5 day battle camp. For recent additions to the Sqn this was a chance to prove their worth and get stuck in to some infantry training. New Tp Comds 2Lts Aldred and Loots were keen to finally lead their soldiers, having recently completed the arduous TC Course in Blandford.

The ex would consist of a 2 day build up package focussing on low level training and FOB defence drills, with the overall aim to bring the Sqns low level skills and drills up to scratch in preparation for their deployment to Afghanistan next year. The lessons covered included Casualty Drills; Radio SOP’s and section attacks. From the evening of day 2 the ex moved into its tactical phase which began with night recces, one of which, meticulously carried out by G Tp, was of the FOB; our future MLT in the Sun location.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 43 The FOB defence phase saw the designated Tp deal with the brunt of the enemy’s anger and attacks. FOB guardians repeatedly dashed to their stand to positions; donning helmets and webbing in a flash. Brave Cpl Mcleish deserves a mention (not in dispatches) for being equally quick at getting back into his ‘green maggot’ after such attacks. Endex was called after a sustained GPMG battle in the early hours of Day 5, which exhausted our supplies of ammunition. Fearless G Tp once again cleared the route to nearby NATO HQ, which allowed 222 Sig Sqn to evacuate the FOB and for our forces to regroup. Once in all round defence the DS announced Endex in order for the cleanup to begin and for the FOB to return to peaceful normality.

252 SIGNAL SQUADRON

The FOB insertion OC Maj Scott Steven Having cleared the route, the Sqn inserted to the FOB and under SSM WO2 (SSM) Al Watson the command of Lt Pain and Sgt Cassee began building up its defences, deploying barbed wire, roadblocks and VCP’s so that 252 RE-LOCATE: THE STORY SO FAR… the FOB became a fortress. We also developed a series of Sanger’s out of sandbags, which were filled by the blood, sweat It has been an extremely busy few months for 252 (Hong Kong) and tears of 222 Sqn, including the OC and SSM, finished off Sig Sqn as we have had to move as part of the Advance Party for with a gleaming GPMG. From this point the 14 hour rotation of ARRCADE ODYSSEY. In most cases this has meant leaving foot patrols, vehicle patrols and FOB defence could begin. None families behind in Germany until the end of the school year whilst of the 3 rotations involved much down time as the serials were the soldiers crack on with the preparations for the HQ ARRC Staff fed through thick and fast from the ex co-ordinator SSgt Officers’ arrival. One of the main challenges has been getting McDiarmid who had a knack of arriving just before mayhem was used to working on a building site and for the first 2 months we about to be unleashed. were wearing very fashionable blue plastic boot covers so as not to ruin the carpets! This made the morning parades very colourful for the SSM! Thankfully the “hard hat” areas were quickly upgraded so nobody had to get out their helmets.

Our initial reception in the area has been positive and we have all enjoyed being back home where you can understand what is on the supermarket shelves and drive on the sensible side of the road. We have affiliated ourselves to a local charity, Winston’s Wish and are having a lot of fun doing events for them.

CHARITY EVENTS FOR WINSTON’S WISH

252 (Hong Kong) Sig Sqn have recently moved back from Elmpt Station, Germany to support the ARRC HQ move back to Innsworth, Gloucestershire. To help advertise the Sqn and Imjin Barracks in our new location, WO2 (YofS) Bailey asked for volunteers to form a committee to represent a local charity called Taunting from the locals Winston’s Wish. This Committee is as follows, Lt Kate Apps, The foot patrols encountered enemy positions frequently, putting WO2 (YofS) ‘Daz’ Bailey, Sgt ‘Spud’ Williams, Cpl Frankie the build up training to the test and pushing the soldiers who had Ndegwa, Cpl Lou Walker, LCpl Lee Austin and LCpl ‘Spanish’ been put in that command appointment. The confusing warren of Spain. bunkers and mounds of the Swynerton training area tested low- level command and control to the limit. Vehicle patrols moved Winston’s Wish is a National charity, situated close to Imjin out in order to dominate the area and prevent the enemy gaining Barracks in Cheltenham. It focuses on supporting bereaved a foothold. The Tp Comds took the lead on these patrols, much children who have lost one or both parents. Our aim is to to the amusement of G Tp as 2Lt Aldred managed to take the organise a variety of events over the coming months to show our wrong route several times, in the interest of keeping the enemy support as a Regt and as part of ARRC HQ. on their toes of course! This phase also called for 222 Sig Sqn to help out our Danish allies in the area, who had a habit of crashing On 4 Jun 10 WO2 (YofS) Bailey organised a charity quiz night in their vehicles and sustaining T1 and T2 casualties. which over 15 teams of 4 participated. There were 11 different categories over the night and very cheap booze, (£1.12 per pint!) The winning team consisted of SSgt Anthony Ramsay, Cpl Sarah Challis, Cpl Walker and LCpl Austin and the quiz was a great success, raising £204.00.

On a committee meeting soon after this event, Lt Apps came up with an event she had experienced from colleagues whilst being on her ‘Troopies’ in Blandford. It was to be known as “Hug-A- Squaddie”, and was organised by LCpl Austin. On Sat 12 Jun 10 we set up a stand on Cheltenham Town High Street and one Officer, one WO and nine NCO’s were dressed in different military attire consisting of CS95, Deserts, CEFO, No 1’s, Mess Dress, CBRN and the most huggable suit of the day despite scaring most of the kids, the ghillie suit! The public of Cheltenham generously donated their monies, hugs, kisses, and for some, (LCpl Sambou) their telephone numbers to the soldiers and charity. It was also nice to see comrades who served with the LCpl Budgen defending the FOB Corps in the 80’s and even as far back as World War 2. The day

44 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 and there weren’t many hills on the Isle of Wight. Both of these assurances turned out to be blatant lies as 20km and numerous steep hills later (all of which we seemed to go up but never seemed to go down) Cpl Ward was no longer as popular as when we first set off. Whilst waiting for the transport to pick us up, myself, Cpl Ward and a couple of other members of the group decided to partake in a beverage in one of the Ale Houses, which we were assured was just down the lane and turn left, by a friendly old woman in a shop. 5km later we finally found the ale house, had time for one drink and had to set off back the 5km to the pick up point where we were collected and taken back to camp for evening meal.

The next day our activity was mountain biking, taken by Sgt Bernie Clifton. We were once again assured it would be a steady ride with not many hills, more lies, as Cpl ‘Eddie’ Edwards found out as most of the day he spent pushing his bike up the was a roaring success and we raised just over £2600.00, and hills. Just as we were nearing the end of the were back in time to watch the England vs USA footie match. ride we were confronted with the hill from hell, which Sgt Clifton assured us he could pedal up without the slightest problem. We I would like to thank the following personnel for contributing to set off up the hill while Sgt Clifton gave us a head start. Half the day, LT Apps, WO2 (YofS) Bailey, Sgt Williams (and his silky way up the hill, with the majority of us breathing through various speech throughout the day!) Cpl Walker, LCpl Kirkhope, LCpl orifices, Sgt Clifton came pedaling past us all, mocking as he Law, LCpl Longlands, LCpl Lynn, LCpl Sambou, and LCpl went, until three quarters of the way up the unthinkable happened Spain. and his chain snapped. The distress that this caused him was well worth the five hours of pain he had just put us through, and the fact that we made it to the top of hill and he didn’t still brings a smile to my face now. The evening’s entertainment was a trip to the speedway in Ryde where it was amateur night. It was well worth going just to see the young lad cream into the safety barrier and the looks we got off the locals as we all burst out laughing when it happened.

Wednesday’s event was sea kayaking, which was taken by a civilian instructor at Freshwater Bay. The previous days kayakers had warned us how cold the sea was, so upon arrival, young Sig Russell was dispatched to the waters edge to find out the temperature, where he stayed even as myself, Cpl Edwards and Sig Davis sprinted towards him and promptly pushed him in fully clothed. Asked why he didn’t get out of the way, his reply was ‘I thought you were all running to check how cold the water was!!!’ Bless his little cotton socks. A glorious morning was spent kayaking up and down the coastline, in the baking sun, until we were picked up at midday and returned to camp for a BBQ and SUPPORT SQUADRON games afternoon.

OC Maj Mark Rouse The events laid on for the games afternoon were, one rule football SSM WO2 (SSM) Pete Mason (that only rule being no hands), apple bobbing, golf pitching and human bridge. The teams were the groups that we had been in EXERCISE DRAGONS TALON - ISLE OF WIGHT all week, and the winning team for each event were awarded with - by Cpl Smith QM Dept an alcoholic jelly per team member. After the fun of the games we had a BBQ where there was enough food to feed the The week started early at 0600hrs on the Sunday for the long thousands, but somehow about 40 of us managed to polish the drive down to the Isle of Wight from camp in Stafford for the lot off. second week of Sp Sqns adventure training. We loaded up the minibuses with the pax and baggage and set off. Most people The final day of activities saw us doing rock climbing on a managed to get their heads down on the journey in preparation climbing wall in a local secondary school. This activity was taken for what was to come. by SSgt Baz Sherwin and LCpl Danny Prince. The morning was spent doing various types of climbs, none of which beat Sig Once we arrived at New Jersey Camp we were met by some of Phil Davis as he scurried up and down the walls with apparent the DS who were still feeling the effects of being left to their own ease. Mid afternoon we returned to the camp and began the devices on the Saturday night. We were shown to our rooms, packing up process. split into our groups and given all the usual briefings. We were then given ADMIN time until the morning, which was mainly spent The following morning a final check of everything was done and in Newport centre listening to LCpl Mawhinney crucify songs on our accommodation handed back over, before the long journey the karaoke. home.

The first activity for my group (group 2) was hill walking, taken by A big thanks must go out to SSgt John Blowes for organizing an Cpl Ward. The group was assured that it would be a nice stroll excellent couple of weeks for members of Sp Sqn.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 45 30th SIGNAL REGIMENT BRAMCOTE

250 GURKHA SIGNAL SQUADRON The ex was very satisfying and went according to plan. The overall aim was achieved and more importantly we have built our OC Maj Corkery confidence on RLT dramatically. Now I can proudly say I have a SSM WO2 (SSM) Un very good experience and knowledge on rock climbing after this ex and the reward for this goes to our OC Saheb and our 2 RLT EXERCISE UKALO DRAGON - by LCpl Bhim Isbo JNCOs LCpl Prakash and LCpl Meharsing.

Ex UKALO DRAGON was a level 3 Adventurous Training ex conducted in the Peak District over 2 weekends this spring, 23- 24 April and 7-9 May. The ex was lead by the OC Maj Corkery along with 2 RLT qualified NCOs LCpl Prakash Gurung and LCpl Meharsing Gaha. The main aims of this ex were to make both RLT qualified NCOs prepared for RCL course, to train the other 6 junior ranks to prepare for RLT qualification and finally to develop and test their teamwork, leadership, administration and courage.

On the first weekend we started our journey early morning of Friday 23 April. The wheels moved at 0630hrs from Bramcote and it was nearly a 2 hour journey to the crag. Our first crag of choice was Stanage Edge. Once we reached there we started to unload our kit and head towards the crag which looked really challenging. This was my second outdoor rock climb, but my first confident climb. OC Saheb and the RLTs showed us how to prepare the belay for the climb. They also taught us how to make Sig Ishwor and OC 250 GSS Maj A E A Corkery nearly at the top different knots and when to use them. After the OC Saheb was happy with the belay we started the climb. We did 5 climbs on 256 SIGNAL SQUADRON that day at different categories of difficulty. In the evening, we went to Birchen camp site for overnight camping; it was OC Maj Short awesome as it was my first camping. SSM WO2 (SSM) Stowell

On the second day we planned to do climbing in Birchen Edge ALPHA TROOP which was another challenging crag. Our arms were a bit sore from the previous day but when we reached there the pain was OC Lt Barrett gone. Again on that day we prepared the belay for the climb; this Tp SSgt SSgt Mcdougall time we were more involved and got a very good chance to learn. On that day we did about 5 climbs at different difficulty MERCURY 500 categories followed by abseiling and a short climb without ropes which was a bit more like caving. The first weekend of the 30 Sig Regt came 2nd in the mercury 500 event, completing the training was complete. 500 laps of Blandford running track in a stunning time of 13 hours 58 minutes. Every member of the team completed 50 laps of the After 2 weeks, on 7 May Friday we track with 30Ibs burden, equivalent to started our second weekend of the 12.5 miles at best effort pace with training. This time it was for 2 nights CFT weight over a 14 hour period! and 3 days. Our main aim of the first day was to set up a camp and take Our start to the race was steady, some lessons from OC Saheb and the working in pairs completing 4 laps RLTs about more knots. We started each in a one on one off rotation. our second day with a chilly rush of This allowed about 45 minutes wind and drizzle. When we reached between stints on the track and gave Stanage Edge, the wind was growling the team some well earned rest but despite the bad weather we between miles. Whilst other teams managed to setup a belay for the set off for the sprint we were focused climb and this time about 90 percent on the long hall and by 0600 after 9 of the setup was done by us led by the hours on the track we were 5th 2 RLTs. Our OC Saheb was really overall. However, whilst other teams impressed with our job. Once the were gradually grinding down, making belay was done we started the climb. an average pace of 16 or 17 minutes The rocks were really slippery and we Cpl Bhim, Sig Ishwor and team after setting up a belay for 10 laps, our average was getting got lots of cuts. The routes were more quicker as the sun came up. difficult this time but we still managed 5 climbs. We took 4th place from 11 Sig Regt B as they slowly burned out On the last day we went to Birchen Edge. The weather was nice and that wet our appetite for further success. The team still felt and sunny on that day and there were lots of other climbers. Like strong, so we switched to a fast 1 lap on 9 laps off racing with the previous climbs we prepared the belay and started the strategy for our assault on 3rd placed 1 Sqn. Our time for ten climb without any delay. In the afternoon, we did abseiling and a laps went down to 13 minutes and we came from 15 minutes ‘caving’ climb as before but this time on a different route. Once behind to overtake them. We had earned our cup however this was done we did a final packup and drove back to Bramcote suddenly there was the possibility to earn a Bramcote Station 1st in the late afternoon. and 2nd.

46 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 Spurred on by the SSM and 258 Sig Sqn who had by now beaten being 6000ft above sea level. The team started off with just the 4 the record held by 2nd Bn RRF, the team upped the anti. With 50 people from the Commcen, but quickly realised that we would laps remaining went from 5 laps behind 2nd placed 209 Sig Sqn need a little help if we were to complete our goal. That’s when to 5 laps ahead by the finish. To come back from 5th to finish the RCMO, RAO and 2 AGC personnel from 5 Scots gave us a 2nd was a stoic effort by all involved and the team gratefully hand by completing a numerous amount of laps for us. In total tucked into breakfast, coffee and energy drinks upon their finish. each person from the Commcen completed 16 laps which was a total of 22miles. It was a long and hard day but it was all The last competitors finished the race around 17 hours and finally worthwhile. We raised 10,000 shillings, clothing and lots of food Brig Watts presented 258 with the £1000 silver trophy and the for the children. On 4 May we went down to the local orphanage 2nd and 3rd placed teams with their Mercury 500 Mugs, at least and gave them the donations. The Manager of the Children’s the coffee addicts will be happy! Home was extremely grateful with what we had done. Overall the charity event was a huge success due to the time and effort put JFHQ MIL SKILLS in by all parties concerned.

Supporting JFHQ has its perks, members of the Tp deployed in CHARLIE TROOP support of JFHQ military skills ex on Salisbury Plain. Three OLRT teams deployed to support the exercising troops and the OC Lt Bilney remainder of the Tp deployed to act as Civ-Pop. Troops carried Tp SSgt SSgt Hopkins out a number of memorable events, such as harassing recce teams and watching a Platoon of Marines riot against the JFHQ GRAND DAY OUT TO BOSWORTH - by Sig Stubbs senior officers, stealing their vehicles, weapons, boots and anything else that wasn’t nailed down. During the re-run of this On 27 May 2010 Charlie Tp embarked on a cultural visit to highly entertaining riot (from a spectators point of view) hearing Bosworth the site of the battle of Bosworth. It was a joint cultural the words “get that one with two pips” was a distinctly un-nerving trip and a good bye to some of Charlie Tp’s members. To start experience, especially with less than half a magazine left and the day off we had a brief presentation of what the battle of nobody in immediate support. The second part of this ex is Bosworth was by the younger members of tp. After a 10 minute being carried out in Cyprus in June and will involve hunting down presentation and a lengthy discussion about the relevance of a JFHQ personnel for a week as they conduct their SERE training. picture allegedly showing the king being slain, we were off to get enthralled by the wonders of Bosworth. BRAVO TROOP On our arrival we were met by an elderly man who seemed more OC Lt Munn excited about the visit than we were. First off we looked around Tp SSgt SSgt Bithell a field that they used to think that battle took place, then a small trek to where the battle did take place. It involved some gory EXERCISE KENYAN CHILD - by LCpl Wright details of the battle which kept us interested along the way. Once back at the visitor’s centre we had a chance to look around On 3 May Sig Beck, Sig Glasgow, Sig Talbot and I all ran in a the museum, which to some peoples delight had armour and charity run consisting of a 137 mile run from Nanyuki to Nairobi. helmets to try on. It also gave a chance for members of the tp to The charity run came about after Sig Talbot and I had visited a believe they had become fearsome knights and for some local orphanage. “We saw children without shoes and clothes, Facebook profile pictures to be taken. bad living facilities and poor quality of life, but yet all of them still had lots of morale and a nice smile on their faces.” After the visit Later on in the day we went for a game of bowling and drinking we wanted to give something to the orphanage for the children, which is always a good combination. We had a bet on the first that’s when I came up with the idea to arrange a charity run to game, for who ever scored the lowest had to write The Wire raise awareness of the local children’s home, but more notes…oh dear. After a few games of bowling and seeing if importantly raise money and resources for the orphanage. With anyone was better at left handed bowling the tp had finally had my direction, Sigs Beck, Glasgow and Talbot started arranging enough fun and decided it was game over and time to go back to the event. It consisted of them going around to all the camp. departments and asking for anything they had and they were pleasantly surprised in the generosity. We received money, old unit t-shirts, civilian clothing, footballs and much more.

Charlie Tp at Bosworth

SUPPORT SIGNAL SQUADRON

OC Maj Griffiths SSM WO2 (SSM) Hodgskins

LCpl Wright, Sig Beck, Sig Glasgow and Sig Talbot EXERCISE SWAN RANGE 2010 - by WO2 (SSM) Hodgskins The run started on the morning of 3 May at 0650 and finished at 1720. We couldn’t run directly from Nanyuki to Nairobi, so the The 18th of March saw members of the Regt deploy on Ex SWAN local golf course was booked and the team ran laps, each 1.28 RANGE. Following a 0500 start on the Sunday morning, 70 miles long, which wasn’t made easier by the 28 degrees heat and members of the Regt boarded buses and headed to Barry

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 47 Buddon Training Centre in Scotland. The training area, which has it burn but the resulting fire took a good 2 hours to put out once not been used by the Regt before, is located approx 5 miles East the exercising troops had gone to bed! of Dundee so a 7 hour bus ride from Bramcote gave the tps plenty of time to worry about what lay ahead! The aim of the ex The following day saw a reversal of roles as the tps continued to was to provide participating tps with the opportunity to practice prepare for the final day of live firing which culminated in a Pistol the skills required to operate as a member of a dismounted CQB Range and Section Quick Attack using L109 HE. infantry fire team. On arrival the exercising troops were split down into 2 platoons led by WO2 (QMSI) Dusty Miller and Lt Munn. The Pl Sgts were issued their equipment for the week by SSgt SQMS Sheard. The tps then received a safety brief before being allocated their accommodation and getting their heads down for the night.

PT at 0500 the following morning set the routine for the next 14 days! Range Staff paraded (somewhat begrudgingly in some cases) next to the exercising troops before being taken on a ‘familiarisation’ tour of the camp and local surrounding area by Capt Ken Smith, 2IC Sp Sqn.

Day 1 of training consisted of WHTs’ , a check zero and ACMT before moving to the IBSR (Static) under the watchful eye of SSgt Dave Knowler. Take Cover!

Day 2 of the activity saw the Sig Nir takes aim on the Group and No Range Camp would be complete without the obligatory CFT pace increase somewhat as Zero Range so to wrap up on the Saturday all those in attendance took part in tps tabbed out to the IBSR (Moves), MMTT and Automatic a CFT prior to a quick change into civvies before departing to Assessment where some particularly good visit the Glen Turret Distellery in Crieff. scores were recorded by almost all troops. Although the skies remained clear for the In total, over the 2 weeks over 120 duration of the day a bitterly cold wind blew personnel from the Regt attended the ex. relentlessly for the duration of the day! Starting with the basics of marksmanship all those who attended; managed to pass That night the Pl Comds, under the watchful the new Fire & Movement Test, fired IBSR eye of the Pl Sgts, Sgt Surendra and Sgt (Static & Moving), completed the Fire & Ryan Booth deployed onto the area to plot Movement Range (individually and as a a route for Ex MIDNIGHT SWAN, a night pair), passed the Pistol ACMT and navex planned for the following evening advanced to CQB Pistol. The majority of with the remainder of the tps receiving the soldiers who took part also threw HE WHTs’ on the 9mm pistol, night viewing L109 on both the standard grenade range devices and the L109 HE genade. and on the field firing area as part of a Fire Team quick attack. All personnel spent Training began early (again) on the time ‘roughing it’ in the field, fired a Section Wednesday and, following PT, the Pls in Defence night range, competed in the moved on foot to their first ranges of the inter Pl night navex and attempted the day. 1 Pl headed to the standard grenade fiendish assault course. Did we achieve range followed by the assault course whilst A lone soldier advances down the IBSR the aim? I think so! 2 Pl moved to the Pairs F&M Range being run by SSgt Fred Deas. At the end of the training day, 2 Pl returned to camp for a good nights kip whilst 1 Pl occupied a patrol harbour before deploying to FF(N) for a section in defence night shoot. Planned by Sgt Dan Clarke all went well until gusting wind + tracer resulted in a massive range fire! Due to the close proximity of the sea L-R WO2 (QMSI) Dusty Miller, Lt Kate Bilney, LCpl Bailey and Cpl Lt Barrett in fighting mood we were told to let Robson set the pace for the CFT

48 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 32nd (SCOTTISH) SIGNAL REGIMENT (VOLUNTEERS) GLASGOW

CO Lt Col P T Donegan OC Lt Hazel Ashton. New equipment arriving has meant new RSM WO1 (RSM) B B Newton skills to be learnt in short time as well as working with a new team. This has been yet another busy period for the Regt. Many of the Sqns have been training towards IOC and the RHQ staff have The Tp is working hard towards meeting the target of FOC in even had a run out on the 2 (NC) Sig Bde CPX. There have been anticipation of future UK Ops. However, regardless of all that the a few changes recently as the QM Maj Pete McELwee moves on Tp has found time for fund raising for both SSAFA Forces Help for his final posting to 21 Sig Regt (Ideally positioned and Help for Heroes. 842 Tp had managed, through means both geographically to allow visits to cider farms!). Also the RSM WO1 fair and devious to source an old 105mm artillery shell. Once Bruce Thornton moves on to his new posting at 2 Sig Regt as polished it has been engraved with “Give us your shrapnel in aid the MTO (good luck on your new career as an Officer). of Help for Heroes and SSAFA”. With this the Tp are having a number of fund raising activities in order to raise cash including running in the recent Great Manchester 10k Run.

The artillery shell is being used as a “baton” with the idea that it is passed onto other groups or individuals, both civilian and military, to raise funds for these charities, each engraving their names onto the shell. In these times of recession the slogan “Give us your shrapnel” certainly seems to be a rousing call to support charities! If anyone reading this wants to take over the baton then just contact us!

52 (LOWLAND) SUPPORT SQUADRON

OC Maj T McVey SSM WO2 (SSM) K Swan

REGIMENTAL SHOOTING TEAM WO1 (RSM) Thornton hands the baton / pace-stick to WO1 (RSM) A training weekend in March was put together in short order to Newton enable the newly formed shooting team to zero and test fire their 33 LANCASHIRE SIGNAL SQUADRON new weapons since the reforming of the Regt. The aim of the weekend was to get eight firers to compete at the CORPS OSC OC Maj R Fitzpatrick in Pirbright in April. The newest addition to the team was Sig SSM WO2 (SSM) M Hanna John Clegg from 33 Sqn in Liverpool and from day one, he showed good potential. On Tuesday 30 March the Sqn Honorary Colonel visited the newly formed 892 (Manchester) Sig Tp in Rusholme, Manchester to see With the changes the TA R SIGNALS went through in 2009, the how the team was settling in. Following disbandment of their team composition changed this year and the 32 Sig Regt previous units; 33 Sig Regt and 93 Sig Sqn members of the new Shooting team was made up from a 50% split of former 32 and troop are now up and running in the newly formed 33 Sig Sqn, 33 Sig Regt members. In the last 10 years the two teams have the southern most Sqn of 32 Sig Regt. been friendly rivals but were now competing together at the CORPS OSC for the first time. The team performed well from the beginning and throughout the day, winning 7 of the 13 trophies. On the Sunday the grand finale saw our team win the Royal Signals Falling Plate Competition.

We had 4 of the team in the top 6 shoot off on Sunday morning. Congratulations to Sig Clegg who won best Class B soldier and Capt Paul Williams who won the best officer. Sig Clegg also won the Roupell Cup, the runner up being Cpl Tommy Harrison also from 33 Sqn. Capt Williams won the Graham Cup, the runner up being Cpl Mick Carvill who also won the LSW Match. Sig Clegg was runner up in the Association Cup, Capt Williams runner up in the Pistol CQB, Cpl Carvill runner up in the Champion at Arms and WO1 Paul Corrie runner up in the rifle Championship.

Team Trophies:

Colonel Ian Meadows OBE DL, with Squadron 2IC Captain Bob 32 Sig Regt A Team, winners of the Roupell Cup. Paterson and Troop Commander Lt Hazel Ashton 32 Sig Regt B Team, winners of the Graham Trophy. 32 Sig Regt B Team, winners of the Falling Plate Competition. Whilst the Sqn HQ is based in Liverpool and the Regtl HQ in 32 Sig Regt Champion Team CORPS OSC 2010. Glasgow, the Manchester tp has already found some of the benefits of operating as a satellite tp. As the Honorary Colonel The team are now looking forward to 51 Bde SAAM at Barry soon discovered this new tp is getting to grips with pooling Buddon in May, where they are hoping to qualify for TA SAAM in knowledge and information and becoming a tight knit tp under its July.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 49 THE ROYAL SIGNALS (NORTHERN) BAND

Director of Music Capt TW Milford BA(Mus) LRSM Band NRPS WO2 DJ Crowther

The Royal Signals (Northern) Band has had a busy and varied start to the year with a number of high profile events including a very successful concert at the Gala Theatre, Durham in aid of the ABF, The Soldiers Charity. Again the Royal Signals took centre stage and produced a very professional performance along with the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers TA Band. Highlight of the evening was a quartet of Post Horns led by WO2 Dave Crowther and ably assisted Drum Major Ian Pattison and two members of the Fusiliers TA Band. The piece culminating with a Battle of the Post Horns which ended in a split decision victory to the Signals. The evening ended with a Proms finale and yet again a huge amount of money was raised for the ABF. In February the band was also privileged to perform at the dining out of the Comd 2 Sig Bde The proud and happy team of 32 Signal Regiment (V) Brig David Hargreaves who has been a huge fan of the band being a former CO 34 Sig Regt and keen singer in the Amateur 69 (NORTH IRISH HORSE) SQUADRON Operatics world himself. The entire band wishes him well in his new appointment. OC Maj S Rankin SSM WO2 (SSM) Johnston In March two major events took place the first being the Medal Presentation and Disbandment Parade of 93 Sig Sqn, 38 Sig Regt EXERCISE NORTHERN TROT 21 – 23 MAY 10 in Blackburn and a recruiting event at St James’s Park the home of Newcastle United Football Club at their home game against On Friday 21 May 10, troops from 69 (NIH) Sig Sqn assembled at Blackpool having just secured promotion to the Premiership. both TAC locations (Clonaver Park in Belfast and Edenmore Rd in Limavady) to prepare the Bowman Platforms for the planned deployment on Ex NORTHERN TROT at Magilligan Training Centre; which is on the North West coast of Northern Ireland. The PACEX was completed and the last equipment was loaded and supervised by Cpls Johnny Booth and Kris Wilson in Belfast and Sgt Paddy Patterson in Limavady. It was then off to bed as it was an early start the next day. On Saturday, alarm clocks sounded around Clonaver Park at 0500 hrs and it was time for breakfast, line up and then on the road at 0630 hrs to RV with the rest of 69 (NIH) Sig Sqn at Limavady TAC. After a quick brief by the Ex Co-ordinator Sgt Maggie McMillan it was bums in seats for the journey north. After an uneventful journey dets safely arrived at Edenmore Rd TAC to be greeted by Sgt Patterson who was keen to get the ex underway. After a short journey 69 (NIH) Sig Sqn arrived in Magilligan Training Centre to begin the ex. The band on the hallowed turf of St James’ Park!

The ex scenario was based on the North West region of Coleraine Finally, for the first time ever the band took part in SOinC’s suffering the heaviest rain falls for over 20 years. As a result of Opening Show in April along with the Corps Band and all Signals which there was severe flooding and the Coleraine City Council Display teams. Even though the event is too early in the season required military assistance. The ex took place on the Sat and for the band due to the dark evenings and no rehearsal time they concluded at midday on the Sun. Whilst the scenario was based rose to the on rain, gales and thunder the weather on the ground was baking occasion and in 28 degrees - suntans all round! The detachments were kept produced a very busy as Sgt McMillan had an endless supply of drill traffic good show for delivered to their location by Sgt Billy Herridge who by the end the huge crowds of the ex was to be renamed ‘Postman Pat’. Late on Sat the ex at Blandford. play came to an end and all detachments RV’d at one of the The band was locations to harbour up for the night. very privileged to be presented a Sunday morning started well until Sgt McMillan, who was the Jimmy from only deployed female found a MAN in her toilet! She was very Jimmy Wilds at annoyed that someone (a man) was using her toilet, as she the event and the started to rant and rave, suddenly the door opened, then out piece now sits walked LCpl Nick Graham saying in his best feminine voice that pride of place in not to worry “Sarge it’s only me”! Twenty minutes later, after the Band LCpl Graham had used the toilet brush, sprayed and fully aired practice room. the toilet Sgt McMillan was able to take her throne. The OC, Maj Scottie Rankin, arrived at the ex location mid morning The band is now Sunday. After the rigors of 2 (NC) Sig Bde CPX he was more looking forward than happy to talk BOWMAN and enjoy the weather – just no to and busy more CPX scenarios! All the while Sgt Herridge continued to preparing for delight the Det Comds with his endless deliveries. The ex their annual concluded around midday, after a full debrief the tps formed up camp in Cyprus to deploy back to their TAC’s. in June and will The SOinC (A) is still taller than the DOM even report on its A good weekend was had by all! though he has his busby on! return.

50 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 37th SIGNAL REGIMENT (VOLUNTEERS) REDDITCH

CO Lt Col AE Percival INTER-CORPS SHOOTING COMPETITION RSM WO1 (RSM) CM Ogg - by LCpl Shakespeare

ADVENTURE TRAINING SNOWDONIA It is traditional that at the culmination of the annual Inter-Corps - by PO Smith and Sig Ellul Operational Shooting Competition (formerly known as CORPSAAM) that the best overall shot from each Corps is placed On arrival at Capel Currig camp the group was greeted by rows in a heavy chair and carried, in triumph, on the shoulders of his of accommodation blocks. Funnily enough we weren’t using team mates. This year the honour fell to WO1 Phil Hall who won them because they were all full. In the field at the end of the too many trophies to list them all here, not least best individual blocks was a nice, green 18x24 tent, this was to be our home for rifle, best individual pistol and best individual LSW shots. the first night. It turns out Sgt ‘Macca’ McSween isn’t a fan of the cold, or normal conditions as the rest of us call it. Despite He is, however, no small man, and little thought was given to the wearing most of the clothes he’d brought plus his thermals, he various heights of his bearers when carrying the chair. This gibbered all night and proclaimed in the morning that the night resulted in Capt Matt Longcake, at six foot three inches, being was ‘freezin’, the rest of us wondered where he’d kipped that ludicrously partnered with LCpl Nic Smith (Best attached arm night. rifle shot), at five feet six inches.

We were split into 4 groups, 2 following one route and 2 following WO1 Hall’s parade began well enough with drums rattling and another. The first group had 2 climbs for the day, Carnedd Moel the sun shining from a cloudless sky as the entire team applied Siabod and to the Llyn Edno. We chose the steep way up over themselves to the Army’s traditional method of marching, i.e. rocks, which was quite challenging with our packs, though most putting alternate feet in front of each other until the objective is picked sensible routes until near the summit. This is where achieved. As the parade started up the hill, this began to falter. WO2(SSM) Pun decided to go up an almost sheer face. Sig Ellul Capt Longcake began to collapse under the weight of the chair was in the wrong place at the wrong time and followed him up. A until he formed the shape of a question mark and Sig O’Neill Gurkha thinks nothing of the hills; Sig Ellul’s eyes on the top told (Best young shot, and bizarrely in his forties), on a back corner of a different story! the chair, had problems reaching up to his pole.

After camping on a mossy field that had the consistency of a Cresting the hill, the sweating and swearing porters struggled to sodden sponge we made our way down the Nantgwynant valley perform a right-wheel manoeuvre before heading downhill, at a to our pick up point in the village of Beddgelert. rapidly increasing rate, towards the Royal Signals prize giving enclosure. By the time we arrived our passenger had lost his SSgt Ali Nash led the second route. He decided early on that easy and confident winner’s smile and replaced it with a death’s- their two-day route could be done in one. This he achieved by head like grin and a white-knuckled grip on the arms of the chair. some inventive map work that didn’t always follow the map that they were on, or even had. The result was a finish 500m from Having gratefully relieved themselves of their burden, thankfully their pick up point and right next to the Prince Llewellyn pub. (at least for WO1 Hall) using their last vestiges of muscle control, 37 Alpha team were awarded the Royal Corps of Signals At 08:30 the next morning SSgt Nash had a full breakfast to fuel Shooting trophy for best team and enough assorted other him for his bike ride from Storey Arms Centre back to Cardiff TAC silverware to give the impression that they had put their weapons as part of his training for a John O’ Groats to Lands End Charity to use robbing a stately home. Our team captain, WO2(SSM) Bike Ride in aid of Help for Heroes and the Army Benevolent Tim Mansell, took the opportunity to wander through the other Fund. teams’ enclosures asking how they had fared. 37 Bravo team were unfortunate not to pick up any silverware, but they all gained valuable experience for next year!

The “Buffoon of the Competition” award went to Sig Hathaway for fainting with heatstroke in the middle of his LSW shoot and then asking that his team mates keep it a secret, which we have obviously all agreed to do. All that remained was to enjoy a spectacular curry provided by 30 Sig Regt and head home.

All in all a very satisfactory weekend, and we look forward to next year and a similarly high standard of marksmanship.

The team members would like to thank all those members of the Regt who made this possible through running ranges for us earlier in the year, administering us throughout the process and even driving us around The group enjoy a well earned rest at the top on the weekend itself.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 51 EXERCISE WESTERN APPROACHES MAY 2010 The LAD team was awarded a creditable 3rd place for infantry skills and for Sgt Reynolds, 5th place for leadership skills – very commendable given the short time he has had to get to know the REME personnel in the team and their individual abilities.

Physically drained and exhausted at End-Ex, but with morale still high, the team had nothing but praise for the quality and content of the exercise and are more than ready for the challenge of defending the trophy in 2011 !!

Winners of Best Minor Unit – Honorary Colonel’s Trophy - 37 Signal Regiment LAD (V)

May has proved to be another successful month for the REME personnel of 37 Sig Regt LAD (V), with the winning of the Casualty Extraction while under fire! Honorary Colonel’s Trophy at this year’s 5 Div Special-to-Arm (STA) training Exercise, Ex Western Approaches, based at MORRISON CUP TUG OF WAR - by Cpl Montague Swynnerton over the period 14-16 May. The Trophy was awarded to the Minor Unit team with the best overall position in all tasks 9 May 2010 saw the second day of the Morrison Cup final, a very over the duration of the ex. A significant achievement given that eventful day for 37 Sig Regt who were competing in the 680kg the ex consisted of 18 teams of both Regular & TA soldiers from a Tug Of War competition led by the Regts very own WO1 (RSM) diverse collection of units across the division. The ex tested the Ogg. The rest of the team consisted of SSgt Farnes, SSgt team’s basic military soldiering, trade and navigation skills over a Overend, Sgt Caswell, Sgt Hine, Cpl Reed, Cpl Montague and series of 9 highly demanding (90 minute) stands located across Cpl Ratcliffe. Swynnerton training area. On the initial weigh-in it was decided by the event organisers that The teams were put through a punishing series of situations SSgt Farnes was outrageously overweight which pushed the which tested their ability to remain calm and function effectively team above the 680 kg limit till the scales stopped at a healthy as events around them changed and became deliberately more 750kg, this is despite the teams brave last minute attempts to complex & confusing. The scenarios varied from testing the core lose 70kg! Due to this a new ‘Catchweight’ category was born, in skills of REME personnel by repairing and recovering vehicles to which all the reserve Sig Regts were entered. the manufacture of vital components given a sparse selection of tools & materials and a tight time-frame. All of this being A fierce and ferocious battle of pure strength and aggression conducted while being mortared, coming under contact from ensued (with a little skill and expertise). After winning the first pull enemy forces, carrying out life-saving first-aid on casualties with 2-1 against 71 Sig Regt help came along in the form of CSgt major traumas, casualty extraction while under fire, identifying Dougie Douglin of the RRF, a newly trained coach, who and dealing with IED’s, FIBUA, compound clearance and, for mentored our team to a finely tuned tugging machine. Pulling the good measure, a CBRN phase. The stand DS piled on the rope with conviction we knocked both 38 and 39 Sig Regts out, pressure in order to determine the effectiveness of the team as a leading to the final to be a rematch with 71 Sig Regt. whole and the commander. The final was conducted in front of over a 1000 spectators & 22 SAS provided a weapons familiarisation stand, as way of distinguished guests. We all lined up ready to pull and after breather, with instruction on the 50 cal. machine-gun and grenade losing the first pull we clawed ourselves back with victory in the launcher, followed by a foreign weapons shoot on the 25m range. second. For the final and deciding pull we at first held for what All good stuff and some useful hands-on training. felt like an eternity until they went high, at which we went low pulling and pulling till we won. In command of the hastily formed team from 37 Sig Regt LAD was Sgt Mark On behalf of 37 Sig Regt we would like to congratulate 71 Sig Reynolds, a relatively Regt for a good match and wish them better luck next year and a new but very welcome special thanks to CSgt Douglin for his services and sound addition to the unit. advice. Fresh from leading the winning team on this 53 (WALES and WEST) SIGNAL SQUADRON year’s CO’s challenge in March, Sgt Reynolds OC Maj Cosgrove relished the opportunity SSM WO2 (SSM) Webb to lead the LAD team again. He has quickly A great deal has happened within the Sqn; we must firstly earned the respect of congratulate LCpl Tim Yeo and his wife Rachel on the birth of fellow members and their daughter Isabelle and Sig Matt Thomas and his partner made a significant Jade on the birth of their son Mason. We also bid farewell to Sig impact on the unit – the Chris Ellul who has left the sqn for the regulars, we wish him LAD in particular. Application of life-saving BCDT good luck with his basic training.

52 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 The Sqn has taken part in various different exercises, but outside 54 (WORCESTERSHIRE) SUPPORT SQUADRON of this Sigs Rebecca Abrahams, Leanne Hall, Liz Isles and Sophie Thomas took part in the race for life. The SQMS, SSgt OC Maj Gurung Ali Nash cycled from John O’ Groats to Lands End for SSM WO2 (SSM) Mansell Help for Heroes and now has blisters where he shouldn’t do. Sig Matt Thomas entered ‘Beat the Boxer’, a race against WELCOMES, FAREWELLS AND CONGRATULATIONS professional boxers, and while he did well he’ll never make a boxer. Farewell to the QM Maj Gurung and the PSI(T) Sgt Gaz Morris, and welcome to their replacements Capt Tom Lappin and Sgt Congratulations goes to members of the Sqn who took part in the Dan Hine. Congratulations also to Capt Russ Bothwick for his Regtl shooting, PO Nick Smith, Sigs Matt Thomas and Leanne recent commissioning, which along with the QM’s leaving was Hall who brought home medals, but no, they cant wear them on marked by a fantastic curry lunch followed by a few drinks their 2’s dress! around Stratford.

38th SIGNAL REGIMENT (VOLUNTEERS) SHEFFIELD

CO Lt Col A J Parsons Cadre. The Royal Signals made up a good proportion of the RSM WO1 (RSM) A J Wyatt SuTs and were well represented at the front of runs and tabs, as well as supplying some of the top shots. We also avoided any FAREWELLS major embarrassments such as arriving on parade with two left boots! The time has finally come to say farewell to the QM, Capt Stan Kelly and ROSO, Capt David Edmunds. Stan, who is infamous The main aim of these initial weekends is to take civilians with for his wicked sense of humour and fervent support of Liverpool little or no knowledge of the Army and get them thinking and FC is leaving the Regt and the Corps after 28 years service. acting like soldiers; to improve physical fitness and field craft Although retiring, Dave will still be involved with the ACF but will skills, pass the weapon handling test and to cover the other take the chance to practice his golf swing. The CO and all ranks mandatory parts of the syllabus (I think most SuTs could recite wish them all the very best for the future and thank them both for the CDRILS and Health and Hygiene lectures from memory by the all their loyal service. end).

WELCOMES The fitness started with a PFT and built up to an abridged CFT on Weekend 6, by way of “strength and conditioning” sessions on The Regt welcomes two new Officers; Capt Si McGaw as the Saturdays and “endurance” on Sundays. The intensity increased new QM and Capt John Hughes as the new ROSO. Both came steadily over the course (although it spiked sharply after our skits from 33 Signal Regt (V) after it disbanded on 31 March 10. on weekend 5, which included a rather too accurate depiction of the PTIs!) and it became obvious that people needed to train hard 1 SIGNAL SQUADRON (VOLUNTEERS) between the weekends.

OC Maj M C Fisher Highlights of the training were completing a FIBUA scenario on SSM WO2 (SSM) M J Gott the DCCT range and the blank firing “final attack” on Weekend 6, although enthusiasm waned slightly when cleaning the rifles INAUGURAL SQUADRON DINNER NIGHT afterwards! Forty of us passed out from Gazala cadre, with SuT - by Captain Duncan Harwood Anderson taking the award for Best Endeavour. We can look back with a lot of satisfaction and enjoyment at what we’ve The Officers’, Warrant Officers’ and Senior Non-Commissioned achieved over the past months, and look forward to joining the Officers’ Mess of the newly re-formed 1 Sig Sqn (V) held its troop and continuing our training. inaugural dinner night on 8 May. The date was chosen to coincide with the Battle of Kohima, where members of our CHESS - by Captain Duncan Harwood antecedent Regt, the Royal Buckinghamshire Yeomanry fought. The dinner was attended by the CO Lt Col Parsons and the RSM The new Sqn 2IC, Capt Harwood, rounded off a successful WO1 Wyatt, members of the Royal Buckinghamshire Hussars chess season by being invited to represent England at the World Association and several previous members of the Mess. Before Amateur Chess Championships which were held in Chicago, dinner the Second-in-Command, Capt Duncan Harwood gave USA, in March. Over 120 competitors took part, coming from as an account of the battle, and the excellent meal was far afield as Columbia, China, Russia and Europe. Taking place accompanied by a string quartet throughout. After dinner the alongside the North American Masters event, many future stars of OC, Maj Mo Fisher addressed the audience on the Sqns the sport fought it out for a $20,000 prize fund over ten days. achievements to date. Although only recently formed up, part of Scoring 6 points from 9 games, Capt Harwood came joint the Sqns ancestry dates back over 200 years; this is a new twelfth, and was the top placed player from Europe, despite chapter in its history. After dinner the guests retired to the bar, narrowly missing out on the prize money. He hopes to return to where the festivities continued into the small hours. Thanks were the event next year and launch another bid for the title. passed to the Maitre d’ for the evening, Cpl Gareth Clarke, and members of the Sqn who assisted throughout, Cpl Steph Closer to home, the annual Combined Services Chess Quantrell and LCpl Sam Kemp, without whose help the evening Championship was held at HMS Nelson, Portsmouth, over the could not have taken place. period 29 April – 3 May, and was contested by some 20 players from all 3 Services, the Civil Service, and retired members of RECRUIT TRAINING – WEEKENDS 1- 6 – SOLDIER UNDER each. Taking an early lead, Capt Harwood managed to hold off TRAINING (SUT) - by Peter Wood the challenge of some very talented players to eventually win the tournament with an undefeated score of 5½ points from 7 games. On 5 Mar 2010, along with 55 other unsuspecting recruits, I, SuT This was the first time a player from the Army had won the title of Peter Wood, along with SuT Gary Anderson, arrived at Malta ‘Combined Services Chess Champion’ in over 20 years, after a Barracks to begin TSC(A), the TA “6 Weekends” as part of Gazala long period of dominance by the RAF. Capt Harwood is now

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 53 selected to be part of the 6 man team to represent the UK at the BRUGGEN 10 annual NATO Chess Championship which will be held in Denmark in October. Six of the fittest and finest (WO2 Castle, SSgt Cowan, SSgt Hemming, Sgt Forbes, Sgt Davidson and Sig Smith) of 2 Sig Sqn (V) embarked on a 25 hour mini bus journey through Europe to participate in the Bruggen 10 held at Javelin Barracks in Elmpt, Germany. Although averaging 40 years of age many of the team were competing in their first race not to mention their first 10 miler. Everyone was more than delighted with the 2 to 3 hours sleep on route to Germany although Sig Smith helped to bump up the average while claiming the golden maggot award.

The night before the race the team headed out for a pre race meal. Hilarious attempts to order food at the plush restaurant were made by the less linguistic members of the team who reverted to pointing at the menu and asking “what’s this”? Fuelled up and raring to go the team sluggishly made their way to the start line where we met up with the Ops Major Maj Al Higgins the 7th member of the team. The conditions were ideal for an endurance race - a little breeze in the sun to keep cool. GO! From the outset the 3 ‘athletes’ of the team burst off the Cdre Laurie Brokenshire RN CBE presents the prize for Army start line leaving the remaining 4 to concentrate on completing it. Chess Champion 2010 to Capt Duncan Harwood as Sqn Ldr After 1 hour and 37 minutes all members of the team had Steve O’Neill RAF, Chairman of the Combined Services Chess gracefully crossed the finish line. To our astonishment each of us Association looks on made our target times and a massive congratulations to WO2 2 (CITY OF DUNDEE AND HIGHLAND) SIGNAL SQUADRON Castle who finished under an hour placing 14th overall from 467 (VOLUNTEERS) participants. Sgt Glen Davidson was disappointed that he failed to break 1hr 35mins but he did only want to go as the driver, so OC Maj B Williams he remained reasonably happy. Exhausted the team were still SSM WO2 (SSM) W D Smith capable of sprinting to the beer tent to scoop back a cold one before retreating to the showers to prep for the hanger bash. The The Sqn recently welcomed back LCpl Maggie Kelly from her hanger bash had decent live music. Later the dancing queens tour on Op HERRICK 11. She was were up on the dance floor busting moves. originally posted as a CS Engineer to 1 Div HQ but, as with all good plans, things The morning after the night before however were to change. Her duties and locations was like a scene from a John Wayne movie, in theatre varied on a daily basis. One day everyone in the building was in severe need she would be based in a FOB fixing PCs of a walking stick. Regardless of the aches and administering networks or carrying out and pains the trip was full of laughs, drinks radio shifts in the Ops room. This of and great team effort. The return journey course was along with all the Sanger was even more fun, trying to stretch off duties and other mundane duties within aching muscles in a mini-bus whilst driving the FOB. down the motorway was not a pretty sight.

LCpl Kelly also took part in CIMIC patrols Following this successful endeavour the OC out on the ground. With that she was also Sqn has decided to form a running team to used for driving duties moving troops and our disbelief. Next up for several members of equipment to and from camp Bastion. the team is to defend their Larig Ghru title in After a brief stint working in the CP at LCpl Maggie Kelly taking a long earned break June. Maj Higgins OM 38 SR (V) and the Helmand ICS Sqn LCpl Kelly was sent to with a friend team would like to thank the event organisers Lash Kar Gah were she remained for the for making their stay a memorable one. remainder of the tour establishing IT which was more than thin on the ground.

TWO GENERATIONS IN 2 SIG SQN (V)

The OC, Maj Bleddyn Williams proudly presents his daughter, OCdt Gemma Williams with her attestation papers. Two generations of Welsh serving in a Scottish unit, it must be a Celtic thing! Gemma hopes to complete her training with 2 Sig Sqn (V) before moving to Blandford with the family later in the year.

The team before the race Top Left: Sgt Glen Davidson, SSgt Malcolm Forbes, SSgt George Cowan, Maj Al Higgins Bottom Left: Sig Steve Smith, WO2 Jock Castle, SSgt Si Hemming

54 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 41 (PRINCESS LOUISE’S KENSINGTON) SIGNAL SQUADRON to Strategic Communications and return to operating fully in the (VOLUNTEERS) field with new Bowman equipment.

OC Maj J Fensome The intention of the weekend was a slow build up of skills, which SSM SSgt S May will be progressively developed and tested over subsequent training weekends during the year. Several selected members of WELCOMES the Regt had already undertaken IOC (Initial Operational Capability) training and were on hand to help and advise the rest The Sqn welcomes its new OC, Maj Tex Bennett. Previously as they built up their skills and knowledge. serving at HQ 2 Sig Bde in Corsham, Maj Bennett takes up the reins in the run up phase to Annual Camp 2010. Also joining the The main focus of the weekend was on det drills and det set-up Sqn is our new PSI SSgt Andy Williams. SSgt Williams joins us with the new equipment in the field, the basics of which were from 1 ADSR and with his previous training based background talked through and practiced during the afternoon. This included the Sqn is privileged to have such a wealth of knowledge in its actions on arrival at the potential site and the steps and priorities midst! required to camouflage the vehicles and set up the comms equipment. This was run through a few times to get used to the FAREWELLS procedure and to build skills with the new equipment, with a final run though after dusk. Thankfully this was all done in clement Maj Jason Fensome has now handed over command after a weather, unlike the IOC contingent who had battled wind, rain busy 3 years. During this period he was responsible for the and even snow during their preliminary training! The training itself centralisation of our specialist systems under one sub-unit and proved to be very constructive: by the end of the evening the the move of the Sqn from a disbanding Regt to a Regt that is operation for all dets was becoming slick, an outcome which taking on a new specialist role. Maj Fensome is moving certainly bodes well for the forthcoming training. Everyone began to 2 Sig Bde and the Sqn wishes him every success in his new to feel confident with the equipment, and so after a successful post. day’s training the Sqn returned to camp and the welcome hospitality of the bar. PRINCESS LOUISE’S KENSINGTON REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION DINNER 2010 Along with the new role comes new equipment, and so some time was spent on Sunday morning conducting familiarisation The PLKRA Dinner was held this year at Chelsea Town Hall as its lessons on elements of the kit, together with other associated normal venue of Kensington Town Hall was inconveniently taken lessons on food hygiene and Haz-Mat training, before a final up as a counting station for the general election! Forty officers inspection of the kit and a return to base. and soldiers from 41 Sig Sqn (V) joined old comrades from ancestor units, 41 Sig Regt and infantry battalions at the annual Overall, the weekend had proved very useful, and the return to dinner held as close as possible to the PLK Regt’s battle honour ‘green’ comms seemed to be rejuvenating the Sqn. Over the rest of Aubers Ridge. of the training year, these skills will be tested and developed over a series of weekends, such that the Regt will be able to deliver The Town Hall provided an impressive setting for a long evening full operational capability in its new role by April 2011. of good company and excellent service. The Associations guests included the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington and 46 (HALLAMSHIRE) SUPPORT SQUADRON (VOLUNTEERS) Chelsea and the CO of 38 Sig Regt, Lt Col Andy Parsons. 16 -18 April 2010 saw 46 (Hallamshire) Sp Sqn, 38 Sig Regt (V) A NEW TRAINING YEAR MEANS – MORE MATTS TESTING deployed to Beckingham Training Camp in Lincolnshire to carry out MATTs training. The weekend started on the evening of the Kicking off the new training year in top gear the Sqn have set off 16th with the drive down and preparation. We welcomed our new MATTs training with a vengeance. Under the guidance of SSgt NRPS SQMS SSgt Geoff Martin who showed his worth by Andy Williams the Sqn has run two Operational Fitness Tests, providing much needed refreshments, and food to order. Weapon Handling Tests and under Cpl Funmi Osho started MATTs 3. Unfortunately the First Aid practical training started Saturday morning the camp had a wake up with the fire alarm; early when Sig Ibrahim placed her hand between a sledge muster parade was not a pretty sight! After breakfast, complete hammer and the top of a mast stake; some people will do with weapons and webbing, the Sqn was split into groups to go anything to get off doing an OFT! All this was running alongside around the MATTs testing stations. As Sgt Graham Cooke an FTX and a visit program that included the Dep Comd Theatre began his CBRN, he found he had some admirers, namely the Troops, the CO and RSM 38 Sig Regt (V). At one stage the CP cattle who had a knowing expression of what was to come. One table nearly collapsed under the weight of proper crockery and took a special shine to him and even followed him to the grenade posh sandwiches! With so much concurrent activity running range! The weather was being kind to us with the sun shining alongside trade training and exercises there was definitely no and just a small breeze. Sgt Steve Kitchen, having just joined excuse for not having something to do! us, was doing Matt 3 BCD testing, and once again there were changes in CPR. WO2 Barry Baldwin tested on Navigation, and PROMOTIONS can’t understand how we can make reading a map so difficult.!

Well done to Lt Amanda Washbrook and SSgt Colin Anderson SSgt Graham Roberts took the MATT 1 weapon handling. The on their promotions, both richly deserved. morning appeared to run smoothly and more or less to timings, with our new SQMS keeping us on target by, again, providing the CONGRATULATIONS refreshments, assisted by SSgt Shaw. The afternoon began with any Navigation and BCD resits and testing of any behind the Congratulations to Sig Dave Misell on the award of his Bar to his scene admin. VRSM. Sig Misell joined the Territorial Army in 1983 and has served in a number of units and trades during that time including Then it was preparation for the CFT, filling pouches and a tour in the Former Republic of Yugoslavia. rucksacks with the necessary weight ready for weigh in. Sgt Kitchen led the Sqn out of the gates ready for the 6 mile jaunt 64 (CITY OF SHEFFIELD) SIGNAL SQUADRON (VOLUNTEERS) along the quiet country lanes of Beckingham. By 1500hrs the sun was beating down, not an ideal situation for a CFT although 64 Sig Sqn undertook the first weekend of FOC (Full Operational Lincolnshire is the home of flat terrain so it wasn’t too bad. Most Capability) training over the weekend of 24/25 April at of the team completed and passed before collapsing with a cool Beckingham training camp. The Regt has recently been re-roled drink of orange whilst trying to do the cool down exercises.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 55 Tea Time was followed by Regtl 2IC Major Andy Powell giving a to the ranges with SSgt Roberts who was determined to get powerpoint presentation on Values and Standards with a test to everyone a tick in the box - some were still trying at midday end. All but the guard were stood down for the night, though we before passing. Whilst this was taking place Sgt Kitchen, along were rather too exhausted to take full advantage and were in bed with his team Sgt Trish Pinches and Sgt Gibson, did further by midnight. testing on BCD by creating a crashed vehicle scenario, and WO Baldwin did practical navigation. Sunday morning began with another fire alarm. This time Sgt Ann Gibson had set it off unknowingly during one of her many The weekend proved to be very successful and all the Sqn guard duties; was it a coincidence that it was shower time arrived back home safe and sound although quite exhausted, but again?!! Kit packed, then with weapons and webbing it was off who cares when there are ticks in the relevant boxes.

39th (SKINNERS) SIGNAL REGIMENT (VOLUNTEERS) BRISTOL

CO Lt Col DM Sharkey “interesting” choice of video entertainment that perhaps betrayed RSM WO1 (RSM) SM Lithgow the driver’s lack of recent E & D training!

The RHQ component has been inundated with visits over the last Reveille for the members of both Sqns was 0630hrs sharp the couple of months including the Worshipful Company of Skinners, following morning, and we then assembled in 56 Sig Sqn’s photo GOC Th Tps Gen Brealey, Ass Comd Th Tps, Brig Beacom as lined cookhouse for what was surely the best breakfast in well as members of SaBRE. Slightly overdue was the CO’s dining Eastbourne, provided by WO2 Steve Howell and LCpl Ben in which occurred as the culmination to the Officer training Bracken. weekend in May. The CO has managed to visit all elements of the Regt with the car putting in some mileage from Eastbourne in 93 Sqn’s cosmopolitan array of different cap badges and trades the Southeast to Windsor, Aylesbury and Bristol. (Mechanics, Clerks, Medics, Signallers and Electrician Drivers on this occasion) then dispersed to locations around the TAC and We welcome back Maj Rik Lock who has started his graduated compound to begin the weekends work. The medics, under the return to work, although he sometimes has to be forced out the tutelage of Sgt Steve Skerman undertook Team Medic training – office when he is due to go home. Adjt, Capt Jules Corrin has with command tasks for the junior soldiers involving at various given birth to a baby girl Sophia and we wish her well over the times the creative use of mannequins and with the usual business next few months. of running around and shouting thrown into the mix as well.

93 (NORTH SOMERSET YEOMANRY) SUPPORT SQUADRON

OC Maj PJ Smith SSM WO2 (SSM) C Stockwell

Congratulations to the following Sqn personalities on their recent promotions: Sgt Ken McNally RAMC, Cpl Marie Perry REME, LCpl Carly Smith and LCpl Emma Turner RLC. We would like to wish a warm welcome to two new members of the Sqn; SSgt (SQMS) Baggir – Pun and Sgt Jim Rees. We wish them every success in their new posts and hope they enjoy their time with the Sqn. We wish farewell to WO2 (SSM) Chris Jones, who has left the Sqn due to civilian work pressure to take up a new appointment at JSSU Digby, which will hopefully be less demanding in terms of time. We thank him for the time and effort The medics receive group instruction from Sgt Steve Skerman that he put in while with the Sqn and wish him every success in his new post. The REME element decamped to the garages under Sgt Tim McCarthy and proceeded to dismantle, reassemble and fix a The last 2 months has been a pretty eventful time for the Sqn variety of green military vehicles, in addition to one unfamiliar and with the arrival of new permanent staff members, some well distinctly un-military looking two wheeled vehicle which deserved promotions, 2 combined exs with other Sqns within 39 transpired to be Maj Keiran Francis’s motorbike! Sig Regt. Members of the Sqn also manned the G1/G4 desk for the Regt’s role in Ex HORSESHOE EAGLE 10, the 2 Sig Bde CPX.

EXERCISE WESSEX SOUTHDOWN - by LCpl Alex Tebbitt

A balmy Spring evening saw members of 93 Sp Sqn parade at the TAC, Horfield Common, eagerly awaiting the start of Ex WESSEX SOUTHDOWN, with 2 key objectives for the weekends training uppermost in their minds: Firstly, to consolidate individual corps skills in advance of the 2 Bde FTX later in the year, and secondly, to get to know our new colleagues from 56 Sig Sqn in Eastbourne.

The weekend’s events got off to a good start with LCpl Marie Perry being awarded her promotion to Cpl by the OC, Maj Phil Smith. With the formalities complete, all that now stood between an introduction to 56 Sig Sqn’s bar and some much needed sleep was a 4 hour coach journey involving not only an interesting and rather circuitous route by the coach driver, but also an The REME Team outside the MT Garage at Eastbourne

56 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 Representing the Electricians, Cpl John Morris spent his weekend Sqn. These individuals have been selected on their respective giving H&S talks to interested parties on the subject of LFG’s, while boards and are now working hard to attend CLM courses in order the clerks, grateful that the RAO (V), Capt David Gwilliam, had to be granted substantive rank. Our congratulations go to managed to catch the coach at Horfield by the skin of his teeth, A/WO2 (FofS) Dyer, A/Cpl Haynes, A/Cpl Williamson, A/LCpl spent the weekend auditing and attempting to get to grips with JPA Chapman, A/LCpl Close, A/LCpl Shinett and A/LCpl Willcox. payment processes. Indeed, the Bristol and Windsor based clerks marvelled at the grasp of pay procedure shown by SSgt Bob With a raft of promotions, awards, successful training events and Shevells, who single-handedly manages the TA pay process within real time ICS support, the Sqn is in fine fettle and looking forward 56 Sqn. The OC spent his time initiating the 2I/C Capt Dave to a busy summer preparing for Ex GRIFFIN FOCUS in Sep 10. Davies and WO2 Chris Stockwell, into the intricacies of the G4 world, in preparation for the forthcoming 2 Bde CPX. EXERCISE WYVERN TOR - by Sig Tier

The Sqn’s signallers, not to be left out, were given a refresher The minibuses in convoy arrived on Friday night at Okehampton lesson on Antennae and Propagation by the SPSI, SSgt Gyn Camp, Dartmoor. Temperature: freezing cold! We met with 56 and Ansell. 93 Sqns and were briefed up on our designated roles for the weekend. I was to be put on Beardown Tor.

We had to be up, packed and ready with all our kit on the helicopter pad for 0520, to be flown out to our Tors. However, even though I was in chalk 1, we didn’t actually get flown out until 07.30 hours.

When I arrived at my Tor I was greeted by ‘Dave’ and ‘Luke’. Dave was the Tor Commander having taken over from a guy called ‘Nobby’ last year. Later that day I found out the Tor was commonly known as ‘Nobby’s Tor’. Nobby’s Tor was famous for the lawn that surrounds the comms tent, distinguishable by white tape. Its purpose: to keep out all teams, with only the team captains being allowed onto the lawn to enter the tent.

After breakfast, I was taken to the comms tent where all the LCpls Tom Watson & Emma Robinson practice erecting the 8 teams were to check in and get their cards stamped and log in metre mast through the Emit system. I was then introduced to the Airwave radio which was to be my best friend for the next two days. Even The evening’s entertainments began to take shape within the now, I can hear the beeps in my ear! homely confines of the junior ranks mess, with the Bristol contingent in particular keen to experience some of the sights and The first teams weren’t expected until 1015 so we had a few watering holes of Eastbourne. As the evening progressed, and any hours of making sure everything was set up ready before their lingering preconceptions among them about Eastbourne being arrival. A rota system was worked out to ensure everyone populated solely by the ‘older generation’ were resoundingly swept mucked in. The rain came down, the wind came in and it was a aside in the process!! Without exception, an enjoyable night was very cold day. Warm kit was essential so thank goodness for my had by all, and one or two weary looking faces were spotted softie jacket! around the TAC the following morning (along with a mysteriously ‘bootless’ Maj Keiran Francis trooping around the car park). After At 1015 the first team arrived and they got a very warm welcome another productive mornings work spent by the squadrons and from all of us. By the time 1300 came, the ground surrounding more important training completed, 93 Sqn began their long the tent was full of different teams all having lunch. Then it died journey back to Bristol after lunch. down mid afternoon with our next influx due around tea time. Our Tor was a stopover Tor, so we knew it was going to be a busy Without exception, the members of 93 Sp Sqn who made the long night. And it was……from the moment the teams came in, the journey down to Eastbourne to meet their new colleagues were medics were working non-stop treating blisters, sore feet and impressed with the professionalism and hospitality shown by all exhaustion. Emotions were running high as the medics rallied ranks within 56 Sig Sqn, and the next such training exercise is around doing the best they could. keenly anticipated by all. Finally all the teams were pitched up for the night, having been 57 (CITY & COUNTY OF BRISTOL) SIGNAL SQUADRON given their briefing. We were just about to retire to the tent for a cup of coffee when a late team checking in had a casualty. The OC Capt S L Trevelion individuals knee had given way which required a heli lift to SSM WO2 (SSM) R Sharp hospital.

It has been another period for 57 Sig Sqn with an array of exs, The next morning teams were leaving at 0600. There were only MATTs training, Ten Tors, promotions and awards keeping us about a dozen teams to come through our Tor on the Sunday, busy. The Sqn deployed on Ex LYNX BOWMAN 1 over the with Beardown being roughly located in the middle of Dartmoor. weekend 9-11 Apr 10, which saw the Regtl assets dispersed The last team which came through was probably the most between Bristol, Blandford and Caerwent. This weekend also emotional. It was approaching 1200 and the team which were on saw the annual visit to the Regt of the Worshipful Company of the 55 mile route had two more Tors to go. Hats off to the Skinners to present the Skinners Awards to the best male and captain, she was determined to get the team to crack on to the female soldiers in the Regt. Our congratulations go to Sig Carla finish, however, her team had gone against her and decided they Tier for being presented with the Skinners Award for the best had had enough, so sadly they were walked off the Tor. There female soldier in the Regt. The weekend also saw the promotion were lots of tears from the team, but also lots of Haribo to help by the CO of the Sqn Ops Officer, Lt Andy Doherty to Capt. His lift their spirits. promotion must have been the worst kept secret in the Regt, with the Champagne being ordered into the mess in advance, but it Once all the teams had passed through it was time for us to close was well overdue and many congratulations to him. down and by 1400 we were all ready to be collected. We were then informed that one of the heli’s had an electrical fault so that Over our many training events in Apr and May, the OC was meant there was only one heli in operation. Having no shelter and fortunate enough to grant acting rank to several members of the being left in the cold wind, we had no choice but to wait patiently

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 57 to be picked up. After nearly 3 hours of waiting, it finally arrived. Ten soldiers made the long trek down to Dartmoor to help on the Never have I been so pleased to see a helicopter and Ten Tors competition for the first time in Sqn history (supporting Okehampton Camp! 57 Sqn from Bristol). Four soldiers got to fly out on Sea King helicopters and for three of them it was their first ever flight so 56 SIGNAL SQUADRON EASTBOURNE they were grinning all the way home. A visit by HRH The Duke of Edinburgh made it even more enjoyable and interesting. OC Maj K Francis The Bde CPX went very well with a bit of revision on the way. A SSM WO2 (SSM) G Windham good turn out and some very inexperienced faces meant a lot was learnt as part of the process. We now look forward to The Sqn welcomes five new recruits who are now attested and applying these lessons in September on the FTX. kitted out for training. The CO on his first visit to the Sqn personally attested three of these recruits, adding to the The Sqn looks forward to two visits to Sussex this summer from occasion. Eleven recruits start their training cycle in June the CGS as he attends an ABF event at Herstmonceux Castle together, so hopefully they will all bond and go through their and beating the Retreat. He is also visiting the Eastbourne recruits courses together as well. College CCF for their bi-annual inspection and field day. The Sqn will be represented at both events with a stand and hosting Congratulations to Sigs Kevin Diton, Melissa Chalmers and duties. The highlight of the summer will be the Airshow in Aaron Jones, who have recently completed their UK Ops trade Eastbourne and associated recruiting at that event. There will also course with 2 Sig Bde. We now have one more R Signals be the summer beach party in the TAC with bouncy castles and Electrician and two UK Ops CS Operators. bungee runs as well as a sandy beach in the TA centre and a few more surprises on the way! The following day the SNCOs’ and The Sqn also welcomes back two of our soldiers fresh from their WOs’ will play the Officers’ mess at cricket in a “friendly” 20/20 Operational tours in Afghanistan. The new MP for Eastbourne match. Stephen Lloyd will be presenting them with their medals in early June, so good to have back LCpls Terry Smith and Ben Bracken. SSgt Tony Back will also be awarded a bar to his VRSM medal on this presentation.

The Sqn held a curry supper night as part of the ABF’s fund raising season and raised £122.53, which was presented to former OC Maj Trevor Boocock. Continuing on the charity efforts the PSAO Capt Gary Jennion was at the ceremony at the Guards museum in London to present a cheque for over £61,000 to Lloyd Honeyghan as part of the LONDIST TA and Army Boxing Club committee for various events they have held this year. Three other soldiers were assisting a voluntary collection in Sp Sqn and 56 Sqn Newhaven recently for Help for Heroes which has raised several Lt Chris Kong is planning ahead with the LANYARD team and thousand pounds. Well done to all in involved. great work by all so far. He is also now organising a battlefield tour later on in the year possibly to Poland!! The OC is taking a The first of many joint training weekends with our fellow Sqns team of 10 soldiers from Regt to compete in the “3 Peaks from Bristol took place in early April. Trade training for all cap Challenge” in late June too! badges and trades worked really well and we had over eighty soldiers staying in the TA centre that weekend. Meals had to be 94 (BERKSHIRE YEOMANRY) SIGNAL SQUADRON split into different shifts as there was not enough space for everyone in one sitting. Plans for enlarging the dining room and OC Maj A Hawes other areas are now afoot! Bar profits were up massively and a SSM WO2 (SSM) C Dean great time was had by all, even more so with glorious sun all weekend. With the final changes in the Sqn behind us and a period of stability upon us, this has been a time of consolidation for the Berkshire Yeomanry. 886 Tp has settled into Windsor and the new comms dets have been assigned to soldiers keen to get out and do comms again.

EXERCISE CASTLE COMMS - by Sig Foster

Springtime is usually sinuous with the sounds of birds and the pre summer breeze rustling through the trees. Instead it had been replaced by the sound of hissing HF Bowman Radios, rustle of 12 meter masts, whip sections and generator noise.

The first field ex with the new UK Ops comms dets was a great opportunity to brush away the cobwebs and put what had been learnt in the classroom into practical use. Beginning with some brush-up practical lessons, Cpl Davies took us through HF antenna types for the Bowman radios and SSgt Sterry gave us a reminder on generator operation and maintenance. Then it was off to practice detachment deployment and establishing comms. With HF and VHF comms in place, we practiced our voice The RCWO WO2 Steve Howell hard at work procedure with the other deployed detachments; rotating radio

58 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 operators within our detachment so we all had a good practice experiences and thoughts as you are, and by the time you finish on running two radios at once. In addition, a number of key your weekends and then your CMS(R), you feel like you have detachment skills, such as camouflage, were tested and accomplished so much and you have a large group of new assessed for Class 3-2 workbooks. friends.

At the end of the field ex, there was an opportunity for PT Then you get back to your unit and now have to integrate with followed by a very hands on introduction into equipment care for your chosen tp and suddenly find yourself at the bottom of the the new kit. Turning around the detachments, we got ready for pile again. So begins the next challenge! I was lucky enough to inspections by Tp Comds before heading home. join a great tp, 886, and found everyone to be friendly and This first Bowman field ex was well organised, well paced and welcoming. Initially, I found it fairly difficult to adjust without the very well received by all. It was exactly the sort of weekend constant alternating weekends. It seemed like the pace had required. slowed right down; but as with everything, it is all about what you make of it, there are always things going on, it is just a case of FROM RECRUIT TO TROOP MEMBER - by Sig Bosman getting involved and being proactive – you get out what you put in. Having recently made the transition between Recruit Tp and my chosen tp, I found this was not at all what I expected. Since leaving Recruit Tp, I have already been lucky enough to attend a Comms Ex - Ex Castle Comms I. On the ex we were Basic training is fast, challenging and intense. You have to learn shown the correct way to erect the masts and then had to do it in all the basics and pretty much remove your civilian frame of mind pairs, after which we were deployed to various locations to set up each time you attend, because as we all know, civilian life is comms, initially I found communicating over the radio very pretty cushy and very easy in comparison. The physical and daunting, but I am really happy I have been able to have this emotional strength that I found I needed to draw upon during my experience now as I feel a lot more clued up as to what we do basic training was immensely different to the stresses and and how some of the kit works. pressures I was used to in everyday civilian life. Personal limits had to be pushed and new inner strengths found! When you are I am eagerly awaiting my trade course as well as hoping to get on going through all this, you start to bond with the like minded tour as soon as possible to put everything I have learned into people around you who are going through the exact same practice.

40th SIGNAL REGIMENT GROUP

PAPAL VISIT TO THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS Sunday was going to be an - by Cpl Matthew Stanyer equally challenging day with an early start and another On Monday 5 May Centre Troop Group was formed in choir coming in to sing for anticipation of the forthcoming Pope’s visit to Cyprus and the the Pope. The Pope also Vatican Embassy which is located within the area of the Buffer conducted a mass at Zone (BZ) controlled by 40 Sig Regt Group. We were tasked with Nicosia Stadium where maintaining the integrity of the BZ during this sensitive time, some lucky members of the which bought up many unique opportunities and challenges. My Regt were selected to role was that of managing a 12 man section in support and acting attend. As the Pope’s visit as liaison to the UN Police and the Vatican Security Team. was drawing to a close we were given an extra tasking We started off with a 2 day training package to get everyone up by the Cyprus Police to to speed with the new role, consisting of things such as rules of assist them in moving him to engagement, escalation drills, range package, first aid and public the Maronite Cathedral, Our order training. Once this was complete we all moved down to Lady of Graces, where he Maple House, a disused troop house in the BZ. Once there, we would conduct his last had time for further training and rehearsals alongside the UN service before leaving the Police. This was interesting as it is a multinational force island. There was also an comprising of Police Officers from Ireland, Australia, Italy, India, opportunity for the families Slovakia, Hungry and Croatia. After some initial problems with of the UN staff to come Sig Bingham maintains crowd the language barrier we all started to settle in well. We then down and line the route to control with the UN Police started to get to grips with controlling access in and out of the the church. Some of the area, which was to be our primary task for the duration of the families with babies had the unique opportunity of having their operation. infants blessed by him.

After all the preparation Friday soon arrived and the anticipation of the Pope’s visit was high with everyone looking to get a good vantage point to catch a glimpse of him. When he finally arrived in his car he moved though the BZ and into the Vatican Embassy smoothly. The next day, however, brought a lot more challenges for us as the Pope was out walking from the Embassy to the Holy Cross church located within the BZ. There was also the added pressure of the press which steadily increased though the day. They were a constant threat trying to gain access with all manner of stories. There was also the Cameroon choir who had access to the BZ; being allowed in to sing for the Pope as he left the church. I do not think any of us realised quite the impact they would have on the general mood as the place developed a Cpl Stanyer maintains a watch as the Papal entourage moves carnival like atmosphere. The majority of onlookers found it hard through the BZ from the Vatican Embassy to the Holy Cross not to get carried away and join in with the singing and dancing. Church

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 59 All in all, it was an opportunity to participate in a unique operation After completing all stands there was a feeling of elation from all and something that isn’t likely to happen to the soldiers again! of the multi-national participants, a party atmosphere was imminent – led by the Argentinean contingent with their drum, THE UNFICYP MILITARY SKILLS COMPETITION cymbals and plenty of singing. Before the award ceremony all - by Capt Billy McCaw participants sat down to a curry meal which, it has to be said, was very welcome and better than the several ‘chocolate cake in It was very early on in our tour that the CO ‘pinged’ me to lead sauce’ bags from the ration packs we consumed as energy the Military Skills teams during deployment, so I had plenty of boosters. time to plan my strategy! The awards ceremony went very well. As the Force Commander No detailed information existed on the UN Military Skills called out the ranking Lt Fulton’s team was announced as having Competition - we all knew this contest took place but with so secured third place – much to our joy. In second place was the many other pre-deployment issues to consider it was somewhat Slovakian team. When first place was called we were totally down the ‘pecking list’. It was only when we deployed on Op astonished – Sector 2 had won the competition! We were thrilled TOSCA that the importance of it all was realized; very quickly it to say the least. The dedication of the team and the will to became apparent this ‘contest’ was a matter of national pride for succeed had paid off; it was a great end to the day. It is a every competing team. With the spotlight in my direction, and remarkable achievement for two teams of Territorial Army soldiers maintaining a sense of urgency, it was a case of promptly to be in the top three positions in a multi-national contest. It was selecting two teams of suitable volunteers – along with a few cause for celebration and some ‘rehydration’ later in the evening pressed men! I led the first team and Lt Lindsay Fulton led the with fluids other than water! It has been almost five years since second. The first essential attribute required across both teams the British Army in Sector 2 won the UNFICYP Military Skills was physical fitness followed by other capabilities that they could Competition and a very proud day for 40 Sig Regt Gp to bring the offer – what skills sets were lacking would have to be developed prize back to Ledra Palace again. during training. With the CO’s approval eighteen men and women were disengaged from operational commitments and with two weeks to the competition the clock was certainly ticking! There was a substantial amount of training to be done and the working day started at 0500 with a finish time of around 2130 most evenings. The daily training programme covered all aspects of the competition: bergen runs (before dawn), BCD, map reading, range work, assault course preparation, military recognition and classroom tests in the evening. It did not finish there as the teams also got homework for the next day. By the end of each working day everybody was both mentally and physically drained, however they kept their spirits and stayed focused – what they were also doing was developing as a team, and this was key to us entering the competition.

The competition took place on 28 May and as a true reflection of the international nature of UNFICYP, there were teams from Argentina, UK, Hungary, Slovakia, a truly mixed bag from the HQ and a team from the UN Police. Over the course of a (very hot and sunny Cypriot) day, the teams covered an endurance march, command tasks, map reading, driving, range work, incident reaction, knowledge of UNFICYP operational information and finally an assault course. The time taken to move between each stand was also factored into the contest and wasted time equated to lost points.

Our Regtl piper, Sig Kyle Carse had been pre-booked to work up the team prior to the assault course and bring some ‘luck of the Irish’. With the piper playing and a good Regtl support cheering us on we were ready for anything; we felt 12 feet high until the 12 The team tackles the assault course during the Mil Skills foot wall! Competition

71st (YEOMANRY) SIGNAL REGIMENT BEXLEYHEATH

47 (MIDDLESEX YEOMANRY) SIGNAL SQUADRON placing of much of the Sqn’s hierarchy less the OC, into stocks for the ritual sponge throwing entertainment of all, indeed it went OC Maj Mike Smith so well the OC is considering retaining the stocks just in case. SSM WO2 (SSM) Marc Gilfrin Thanks must go to Cpl Paul Messett whose organisation and enthusiasm resulted in an extremely enjoyable evening. As the new training year dawned on the Sqn, the end of the old year was celebrated with a bounty party which took the form of a Away from social activities, recruiting and training continues at its medieval banquet. Sqn members endeavoured to out do each usual frenetic pace. Congratulations go to Sig Chris Pearson for other with their costumes, particularly in the case of the Sqn OC, passing his trade course and gaining his Tech trade, whilst Maj Mike Smith who looked very fetching in his chainmail and additionally coming top of the course. The Regtl Cadre Course regal robes. Cpl Palmer did a remarkably good impression of a saw Sig’s Paul Edwards, Lauren Saul, Anthony Malcolm slightly unstable friar even before he’d emptied his goblet, whilst and Andrew Roberts all attend and achieve good passes, the Ops Offr, Capt Alex Orr very clearly felt it was his place to be despite the Regts officers “borrowing” their bergens during the 6 the jester of the evening. The highlight of the dinner was the mile tab.

60 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 The Sqn was sad to say goodbye to PSI (T) Sgt Lee Elliot who now leaves the Army to take up a new career as a project manager. Sgt Elliot has been a key member of the unit during the last 3 years and has helped see the Sqn through a difficult transition with changes in structure and the recent acquisition of new equipment and vehicles. The Sqn wishes Sgt Elliot the best for the future and hopes he enjoys working with proper civilians…

The Sqn is pleased to welcome SSgt Charlie Hart who joins the Sqn in the newly created role of SPSI (T) which replaces the PSI(T) post.

68 (ICCEY) SIG SQN

OC Maj J A Evans SSM WO2 (SSM) S P Healey Sig Martin Burnham demonstrates his newly learnt technique of staying upright when moving EXERCISE COCKNEY PHOENIX SLIDE - by Sgt Richie Marsh

The 71 Sig Regt skiing ex was this year destined for Tignes in the French Alps, quite late in the season but nonetheless we were hoping for some good snow.

We all met at the Bexleyheath TAC whereupon we were issued with our skiing equipment and were shown how to put ski chains on a minibus. It is one of those things that sounds easy to do but in freezing conditions it would be another story!

The journey out to Tignes was a long one but at least there were no delays as we were driving and not flying, no ash cloud to cause us problems. Even a broken down car could not stop Capt Mike Curtis-Rouse from making the ex! We arrived in Tignes on the morning of 11 April, tired and looking forward to getting a bit of rest, especially the drivers.

On the first day the instructors split us into groups depending on The 2IC Capt Mike Curtis Rouse shows off his Skiing aptitude ability, there were three groups in all, Beginners with Sgt Richie In early April, the Regtl annual skiing exercise, Ex Phoenix Marsh, Intermediates with Sgt Marcus Harriott, and Ski Tourers Cockney Slide saw several members of the Sqn deploy to Tignes, with SSgt Stu Foster. France for a week of alpine and downhill skiing. Sig Martin Burnham, one of the Sqn’s soldiers in attendance writes: It was a steep learning curve with the beginners group going from green to blue and even the red slope on the glacier by the end of “The Skiing was in Tignes, France this year and although I had the week. The Intermediates group was also tested to the limit skied a bit before on my own, and I didn’t know what to expect. and did a fair amount of off-piste and black slope skiing. The Ski Sgt Richie Marsh from 68 (ICCEY) Sqn organised the exercise Tourers spent 2 days up in the mountains with a local guide, and it was very full on and busy I got put into the mid ability ski complete with their avalanche alarms, skins and bergens. The group and the instructors from both the Regt and outside were group returned having taken what seemed like hundreds of great, just the right mixture of expertise for practical and theory photos of amazing views, having had a once in a lifetime lessons. It was hard work though and I wasn’t the only one who experience but were somewhat tired. spent much of the week falling over, the black runs from the top of mountain on Tignes were the best, skiing down the glacier in The self-catering accommodation was very good with some the early morning was awesome. I eventually managed to gain interesting meals being cooked by all concerned, including Paella my Basic Ski Proficiency without too many wipe-outs, and so did (SSgt Kevin Young), Irish Stew (Sgt Dennis Long) and Chicken the rest of my group. The accommodation, the skiing and all the Curry A La Marcus (Sgt Harriott). This was also matched by other soldiers definitely made this into a great trip, even the some amusing after dinner games such as Ace of Spades, when evening cook-outs where everyone tried to out-do each other. I the Adjt even managed to catch out the CO. can’t wait till next year to go again!” Returning back to the UK after the ex was somewhat interesting as the volcano in Iceland was in full swing by this point, so those who flew out had to return in the minibuses, which meant the return leg was even more cosy.

265 (KCLY) SP SQUADRON

OC Maj A A Church SSM WO2 (SSM) A D Keeble

April brought with it the start of a new training year and new challenges. The first drill night of the training year saw LCpl Carl Crane help the Sqn work off those chocolate Easter eggs with a vigorous PT lesson. With LCpl Crane training for this year’s marathon he didn’t see why the rest of the Sqn shouldn’t feel the pain he was currently going through. Sgt Charlie Woo and Cpl Bob Myers were the first out of the starting blocks and onto a Two of the ski groups on top of the Glacier taking a breather before training course, attending a two week Map Reading Instructors attempting the black graded slopes course. Unfortunately they turned up late having got lost on

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 61 route! Obviously this course was going to prove useful for them Sharpshooter Association. A thoroughly good time was had by both. The ever impressive LCpl Crane found the time to take a all in such elegant surroundings and it was a great chance to break from marathon training to pass his driving course at the 2 catch up with some former Sharpshooters too. Sig Bde driving camp held at Nescliffe, although rumours that his co-driver made him run back from Nescliffe to Bexleyheath could The last exercise for May saw the Sqn involved in Ex Sharp Trot not be confirmed at this time. He also managed to complete the at the same time as the Bde CPX, Ex Horseshoe Eagle 10. marathon in a very impressive 3 hours 32 mins and raise a tidy Maintenance and trade training was on hand for those not amount of money for charity. involved in the ex. On the Saturday evening a select handful were invited to a dinner by Bexley Council in order to celebrate Ex Sharp Frolic in mid April found the Sqn deploy to Dibgate the Sqn being awarded the freedom of Bexley. Over 200 people Camp near Folkestone for much frolicking in order to prepare for attended the dinner and the members of the Sqn were given a future exercises. Deploying its main comms assets, Reebok and very warm reception indeed. During the evening Cpl Brett Bowman, it was a chance to iron out any teething troubles and Harries was awarded his Brigade Commander’s Commendation correct any skill fades since last year’s annual camp. During the certificate for his service during Op HERRICK 12 and SSgt Kev OC’s walk round the SSM, WO2 Adrian Keeble, became very Harding was awarded his Volunteer Reserve Service Medal impressed with the cam net deployed by LCpl Jon Moore on the (VRSM) for another 10 years exemplary service. To end the ex on Bowman HF Det and decided to put him in charge of instructing the Sunday the Sqn had their fitness tested with a PFA under the the whole Sqn how to deploy cam nets. However, on closer watchful eyes of LCpl Carl Crane and LCpl Jim Sutton. This is inspection he soon discovered that the cam net had been always a good way to end a weekend with SSgt Eddie Edwards deployed upside down and soon relieved LCpl Moore of his new piping LCpl Sean McRoberts to the post by a whisker in the duty before he even had a chance to get stuck in. much anticipated “Clash of the Titans” that was the mile and a half run. A “good but can do better” 15 out of 25 managing to April was a sad month for the Sqn as its ever popular master the pass the PFA kept a smile on the face of the OC, especially chef, Sgt Bob Boynton, passed away having fought a long and as he was one of the 15. The Sqn was now free to enjoy the long very brave battle against cancer. He will be very sadly missed weekend at the end of May prior to deploying on Ex Sharp Canter and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult in June. time.

The end of April saw the Sqn supply a healthy number of individuals for the London District GOC’s Challenge Trophy which was held at Pirbright Camp. Following fine performances across all the events, the Regt finally finished in the Runners Up spot as well as, quite literally, walking away with the Tug of War competition with Capt Steve Slaney, Sgt Andy Hursey, Sgt Mark Pearce and Cpl Dave Brand all lending a hand or two. SSgt Eddie Edwards showed he was just as good with a squash racket as he is with a monkey wrench in putting some fine performances in the squash event. The start of May brought with it the Regts Cadre Course and again, various taskings for 265 (KCLY) Sp Sqn. WO2 Keeble put the junior soldiers through their paces with a PFA, loaded march and obstacle course while Sgt Steve Wise provided the G4 service and Cpl Taff Williams employed his TLC skills as course medic.

In mid May a few members of the Sqn were invited to a House of Capt Alex Downing gives orders to Sgt Jason Bontoft and Cpl Lords dinner by Lord Onslow, is the Chairman of the Brett Harries. The pizza arrived shortly afterwards

NEWS FROM THE SQUADRONS

4 MECHANIZED BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL SQUADRON (204) CATTERICK

TFH SIGNAL SQUADRON - LASHKAR GAH OPS TEAM

OC Maj S Y Richardson Ops Offr Capt Georgie Dunn MOB LKG RSM WO1 (RSM) D J McCall TFH YofS WO2 (YofS) Greg Cox TFH FofS WO2 (FofS) Pratap Ghale and The Sqn was deeply saddened by the tragic WO2 (FofS) Dave Randall and untimely death of Sig David Grout who TFH FofS(IS) WO2 (FofS(IS)) Ian McKenna had returned to the UK from Afghanistan on R&R. His zest for life and huge personality Plans for the resubordination of the Bde under will leave an irreplaceable gap in the Sqn and USMC General Mills and his 1st Marine he will be missed by all. David is survived Expeditionary Force (1MEF) HQ are firming up and by his wife Kerry and son Harley who are in the difficulties communicating securely between our thoughts and prayers in this most difficult nations has caused more than one extremely late time. Signaller David Grout night for WO2 (YofS) Cox and Ops Officer Capt

62 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 Dunn. Inter-operability is the current ‘buzz word’. WO2 (FofS) Command (South) and Regional Command (South-West), with Pratap Ghale, who stepped up to deploy with the Sqn at the very TFH falling under control of RC(SW) and USMC Maj Gen Mills. last minute, will leave to take up his new post as FofS with 22 Sig His 1st Marine Expeditionary Force (1MEF) HQ assuming Regt to be replaced by WO2 (FofS) Randall, from 22 Sig Regt! command of the RC(SW) battle space and TFH. Most We thank him for his efforts and will surely miss his liaison skills significantly in the change is CF SGN (40 Cdo RM) are now with 1 RGR after his departure. directly commanded by Regimental Combat Team 2 (RCT 2). Watch this space for developments.

MINISTERIAL VISIT TO LASHKAR GAH - by Capt Stuart Thomas

There is always a queue of news worthy individuals wanting to come in to theatre; the new Secretary of State for Defence The Rt Hon Dr Liam Fox was joined by the Foreign Secretary William Hague and the Minister for International Development Andrew Mitchell all of whom addressed the soldiers and staff of TFH in Lashkar Gah.

A few members of each unit were selected for a ‘Meet and Greet’ at the Provincial Reconstruction Team; 3 ministers visiting the MOB was quite an event for the press and so as the Unit Press Officer I had a clear remit to get a story, and in doing so promote the Royal Signals and 204 Sig Sqn. I introduced myself and was able to talk to The Rt Hon Dr Liam Fox, MP for North Somerset The Ops Officer with her Danish Counterpart (my constituency and a local in my pub in Clevedon) who was very engaging and interested in how we all felt about conducting More faces have changed in the Sqn since the last edition. Our operations in Afghanistan. All 3 ministers spoke to the gathered QM, Capt Pete Hatton departs to become QM (T) at 2 Sig Regt and it was refreshing to hear them speak with such conviction and is succeeded by Capt Daz Sheerin who joins us from 35 Sig about our achievements here. They pledged to support British Regt (V). WO2 (RQMS) Kev East has left us to become RSM of Troops deployed on operations and to minimise the risks we face 1 Armd Div Sig Regt, to be replaced by WO2 (RQMS) Kev Dade. daily by resourcing us. It was then that the conversation turned Spot the common theme. Immediately on their arrival the QM to the ‘Hot Topic’, the Op Tour Bonus, which to the relief of us all and RQMS began the mammoth task of preparing the MOB for they pledged to double. the anticipated arrival of the American HQ, clearing what seemed like an endless number of ISO containers and the undiscovered As they were leaving Liam Fox turned to me and said “See you in treasures they held. They even found a WMIK in one! There have the pub”; and to my shame it was then that I pulled the pin on my also been a number of internal moves around theatre, LCpl carefully crafted career laugh, I’m sure no-one else noticed ‘Beefy’ Henstock and LCpl Jase Bird have departed Lashkar though. Gah for Bastion to take their turn as radio operators with the Immediate Response Team to be replaced by Cpl Carl Vickers. TFH BLOGS Cpl Steve Ireson has also departed Lashkar Gah for Bastion to provide admin support during the R&R period. Cpl David Smart We have officially fully embraced the twenty first century with moves from the IRT in Bastion to Kajaki to provide operator members of the Bde and Sqn Blogging, support to the District OCC. Meanwhile LCpls Nicky Reynolds http://britisharmy.wordpress.com/afghanistan/204sigsqn/ and Nat Docherty have deployed in direct support of Combat Recent entries by Capts Stuart Thomas and Grant Winkles, Logistic Patrols, providing an operator and advice and further LCpl Russell Nimmo and Sig Chris Boulton. It is an training on TACCIS. opportunity to express thoughts and experiences of Afghanistan to everyone on the World Wide Web. The topics have ranged CHARITY from election fever to football World Cup.

Amongst the myriad of challenges in our goal to raise £10,000 for UPDATES FROM THE OUTDETS charity individuals have surprised themselves with the depths of their own resolve. The personal goals are always the hardest CF LKG - by Sgt Daniel Dixon gained and generally most sweetly rewarded. Cpl Steve Ireson is already well on his way to meeting his target weight and Sgt CF LKG are spread all over the AO from the MOB at Lashkar Gah John Norton is making steady progress in his return to fitness to PBs and CPs in the Loy Adera region and Bolan T. CF LKG after a serious football injury late last year. Not to be trumped our has only been in existence for 4 short months but in that time has rear party are also getting in on the act. Cpl Tam Ingledew- seen massive changes in the local population. My main role is as Hartleveldt has given up smoking and is up to nearly £400 raised Rear Link to the Bde HQ, but I also provide technical advice and in the process. assistance for all TACCIS; it has proven to be extremely challenging at times! My only form of communications back to Our ‘Just Giving’ website has also seen its first donations. The LKG and BSN is TacSat, more than being a hardship I see this as bid to raise £10,000 will only be successful if you, our families a boon as I am spared the earbashings I would otherwise get and friends, help us. The website can be found at from YofS Cox. Life in general is quite demanding but I am www.justgiving.com/4MBSS-HERRICK and we would love for enjoying the opportunity to work on my own. The recent you to get involved. You could simply tell your friends about us introduction of running water and 24v power was awesome and I or your employer; to borrow from the TV ‘Every Little Helps’; we am really looking forward to eating something other than beans want the world to know about our challenge. We also hope to and bacon on R&R. Early on in my tour we held wheat seed post some photos and videos of all our challenges and what we distribution meetings, where the ISAF forces distributed seed to look like after finishing them. Keep checking the website for the tribesman from the surrounding area in the hope they will updates. switch from poppy to wheat cultivation. Every Tuesday there is a Bazaar just outside my CP; this used to be a very small local RESUBORDIANTION affair but now attendance regularly reaches 700. This proves that the local population trust us to provide security and protect them The beginning of June has heralded a change in Helmand from the insurgents. The Battle Group have also been Province. Regional Command (South) has split into Regional responsible for the security of main transit routes around the AO.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 63 One such operation came to fruition recently as a route was cleared of IEDs and deemed safe to travel, almost immediately there was an increase in local traffic.

CF SGN 40 CDO RM - by Sgt Jez Skelhorn

The 2nd Jun 10 represented a milestone for CF SGN and an extremely busy period for the lads of 40 Cdo RLD; it marks the day CF SGN come under the control of USMC RCT 2 (Regt Combat Team). This meant a lot of moving around and changing of camps to make room for them, and in Delta Companies case, a move of location from Kajaki to PB Blenheim to the North of Sangin. It means a lot of extra work for LCpl Russ Nimmo when he replaces Sig Geraint Kayll in Kajaki, who timed his R&R to perfection missing the majority of the work for the move.

The RLD is split over 4 sites in Sangin district: PB Wishtan; PB Kajaki; FOB Nolay and FOB Jackson and our rear based team in Bastion. By far the greatest concentration of the RLD is based in Cpl Williams with David Beckham FOB Jackson. Our duties include BG Ops room shifts, CF NES (N) - by Sgt Danny McGillivray-Jones responsible for monitoring radio nets and logging traffic and ensuring the maps are updated, and Sanger shifts. May proved an extremely testing month for Team DanBat, with the changes in our manpower and the sad passing of our friend Sig David Grout. With the inevitable gap left by David our eclectic mixture of characters in the RLD seems poorer. Phone- calls from Sig ‘Jacko’ Jackson lounging around with the nurses in Selly Oak have certainly restored morale.

We are however, happy to welcome Cpl Paul Burns, Sigs ‘Skem’ Trenwith and Chris Woodward to Team DanBat. Sig Woodward was put straight to work on the Patrol Baseline where he will remain until the Afghan Security Forces can sustain Command and Control of the area. Sig Nat Wynn has deployed to Budwan to cover the R&R period of Cpl Higgins, and she has taken Skem with her to provide an operator for foot patrols within the Green Zone. Sig Daniel McAreavey has returned to Price from Zumbalay and has slotted into our shift pattern. With the departure of a US task force from our area the Danes are now responsible for ensuring security of the Highway 1 with our small AO. The RLD soon expect to have an operator permanently based with this new Danish team to provide secure and reliable communications back to the HQ here in Price. RiP David.

Sgt Skelhorn and LCpl Nimmo on Sanger duty CF NDA - by Cpl Gaz Parham

The FOB itself is separated through the middle by the river which CP Tallaanda seemed a quiet, serene compound. It had a small under normal circumstances is our washing machine and vineyard growing by the flowing river, providing shade and a cool swimming pool; unfortunately the sluice gates have been open on respite from the heat. It was manned by multiples from the Royal the dam for 3 weeks now making it unusable. Meals are based Welsh, so it couldn’t be that bad here! As the Welsh departed on 10 Man Ration packs but we always have some fresh in the grinning from ear to ear, we all thought they were just glad to be evening; it just depends on what we are supplied. There is an EFI going home. How wrong we were, they were grinning because ISO on the FOB selling all the essentials, but most importantly they were leaving Rourkes Drift, Kohima, Agincourt; we were free Slush Puppies (because they are made with screech) that are surrounded by Taliban, thousands of them. In our first week we refreshingly cooling and have a serious kick. When off duty we were contacted by the enemy every single day, we had our 2 have welfare facilities to keep us occupied: there is a well mastiffs blown up by some extremely necky IED laying by the equipped gym with CV machines and weights; the welfare HAB insurgents. They were parked literally outside the front gate, with TV, internet, phones and text link terminals; the cookhouse which at the time had obscured arcs, they simply snuck up and also has reliable WiFi internet so the queues for the 2 internet chucked a 20kg palm oil drum under it filled with HME and laid a terminals are never too big. command wire. It was spotted by the CSM and Ops Officer when they went outside to erect the company sign. Everyone We suffer the same issues here as everywhere else in theatre. was evacuated, CIED called, we just had to wait. The chopper D&V is an ever-present threat as discovered by LCpl Steve arrived carrying the CIED boys, the insurgents thought it would Burton and Sig Nicholas Chapman recently when they were be good to try and take down the chopper with frag from the caught short whilst on Sanger duty. The toilet bags arrived just a mastiffs, so blew them as it landed. This was the first attempt of little late, the net result being a bit more hand washing. many to down a chopper at CP Talaanda. After this incident we decided we needed to improve the arcs on the front sangar, enter In Bastion Cpls Williams and Walker were swept up with the rest the Engr’s and their det cord. A misplaced charge and a savaged of the MOB with Beckham fever. Cpl Williams was particularly mosque later, we had a potential incident on our hands! One of happy, listing David Beckham as his hero, when he managed to the elders said that we could have blown a compound with get a photo with him; it was immediately uploaded onto women and children in and it would not have been as bad. This FACEBOOK with pride. Cpl Walker seemed less impressed and is how emotional the locals were, even our terp was crying like a was in his own words “ . . . threaders at being kept waiting in the baby. Plenty of contacts later and the insurgents get lucky, they midday sun for an hour and a half for some scruffy bloke to turn hit the big one, a sea king! The helicopter was buggered up who didn’t even apologise for being late . . .” Beckham was (technical term used by pilot), it had to be stripped and lifted out. lucky there were no AGAI forms laying around or he may have The amount of sigacts had risen to 30+ and we hadn’t been here found himself with Extras!! a month yet. We needed more men, helicopters would not fly

64 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 into Talaanda without a cordon and our cordons were not big BASTION TROOP enough, the guys were getting smashed every time. Finally another 2 multiples arrived with a sniper team, things got easier, FORWARD REPAIR TEAM we came off hard routine and resupplies were finally coming back into the HLS. Things calmed down due to the BRF bouncing Since the last Wire the FRT SNCO deserted us for Lash Vegas through 31 W, we experienced relative calm, but the BRF were and left us with Sgt Tommy Durbridge, so I guess we’ll be doing having it tough and finally got bogged down. Step in Somme a bit more PT from now on. We have also been reinforced by Cpl Coy, a five day Op moving into 2 compounds to draw the Mark Hall, fresh from PB2 in CF NES(N) area, who takes over as attention of the insurgents and clear a few compounds of our IC workshops. Cpl Reid has been FOB hopping, completing own. It was the first time for me to get out on the ground with fleeting visits to FOB Markez (Formerly FOB Jackson) and PB the company OC. I took my 356, spare batteries, 4 litres of water Melvyn and spreading the joy of working kit behind him. Cpl and 2 days rations, with no idea what to expect. This was the ‘Tagz’ Tagilala is continuing with the routine daily workshop grind first time I had ever done anything like this, my background as well as assisting Cpl Russ ‘The Hammer’ Hamilton with a involves sitting in an installation or major HQ, I’m not a ground project to get HCDR working in theatre. Despite the complexity operator!!! It was a brilliant experience, just patrolling out to the of the task and the seemingly unachievable deadline The compound we were taking over for 5 days was a great Hammer has still found the time to build a bed to complete the experience for me. Then setting up my comms to BG HQ and fortress he calls a bed space. In a final effort to get the elusive manning the net for nearly 20 hours a day was another Beach Bod before going on R&R, Cpl Dave Jarvis competed in experience totally! I loved every minute of it. It was hard routine, the Bastion/Bruggen 10, finishing a very respectable 69 out of I grew an impressive beard in those 5 days, but above all it was over 700 competitors. He won a really small T-Shirt for his great to get out there and see how the infantry do their thing. troubles. Never to be beaten by any job, a crate of Fanta was One question kept going round my head. Why haven’t I done this secured for the repair of SSgt (YofS) Chris Powell’s much loved before? It is an experience every young Signaller needs and one coffee percolator. I wish I had 12 years ago. When your backs are against the wall, you all club together and just get on with it. Keeping comms POWER MANAGEMENT TEAM going has been challenging at times, but ultimately they get squared away. The jobs out on the FOBs and PBs just keep coming in. Even the ‘Power Daddy’ Sgt Craig Chilvers got in on the action; he flew to 3/251 BRIGADE ADVISORY GROUP (Formerly OMLT) a FOB to repair a fault and on the way back seemed to stop - by Sgt Andy Pennock everywhere sorting power issues at each location. All this work has improved everybody’s knowledge and confidence and we The Brigade Advisory Group is still evolving as now deploy on task individually the focus moves from training and mentoring to rather than in pairs as we did earlier partnering and advising. Needless to say the in the tour. With a steady flow of RLD and its responsibilities change in line with generators and LAPDS (Light and the evolution. It provides and interesting Power Distribution System) kits the environment to work in to say the least. The time is flying by quicker than we manning of the RLD has dropped from 7 to 3 expected. We have now begun a due to the R&R plot kicking in and the class for the troops coming in off succumbing of certain members of the the ground, instructing them in the detachment to illness. basic maintenance of the equipment in our new purpose built Sgt Andy Pennock and Cpl Matt McGlowan power training area. All of the team did happen to meet a nice young chap named are keeping themselves busy with David, so in awe of our presence he asked us their own DIY projects, even when politely for a photo. Being the kind, considerate they get some time off, morale is people we are we obliged and sent him on his high and the days keep falling way only later to discover that whilst our backs behind us. Before we know it the were turned he had scribbled his name all over half way point will be a thing of the our England Football shirts. This man shall not 3/215 BAG Ready to move past and we will be on the downhill be invited back! side.

11 LIGHT BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL SQUADRON (261) ALDERSHOT

OC Maj I R Hargreaves Everybody had a different experience of PDT as the Rear Link RSM WO1 (RSM) Ingham Detachments (RLDs) did most of their training with the Infantry Battle Groups they were attached to and Main Troop did theirs This will be the final set of Wire Notes from 11 Lt Bde HQ & Sig with the Sig Sqn and Bde HQ. I was attached to 1 Grenadier Sqn (261) as it disbands this summer along with the 11 Lt Bde Guards and initially deployed with them to Kenya on Ex GRAND HQ. 101 Log Bde HQ & Sig Tp (661) will rise from the 40 soldiers PRIX 6. I had spent Ex GRAND PRIX 5 working on a Forward remaining in Aldershot with 120 soldiers posted to units all over Repair Team and as the Bde Comd’s driver, giving me a vital the world after a superb and long road with 11 Lt Bde. insight into what was in store over the course on the following weeks. All in all I got a nice break in a hot country for three These articles are a look back at the past couple of years and months! also the homecoming events the Sqn have been involved in. Upon our return from Kenya we still had a lot of training and 11 LIGHT BRIGADE - by Cpl Sustins exercises to complete before deploying to Afghanistan. My next exercise was on Combined Arms Staff Trainer (CAST), which My time at 11 Lt Bde HQ & Sig Sqn (261) has been non stop, mostly involved fluffing up pillows for the Bde HQ staff. We later with Pre Deployment Training (PDT) and then a 6 month deployed on ex as RLDs with the BGs we were to be attached to deployment on Op HERRICK 11. on Op HERRICK 11. This was completely different to the Royal

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 65 Signals version of an Infantry exercise and was enhanced by the enthusiastic, and more than slightly out of tune singing, combined distinct lack of a Bde HQ. We were also asked to help train the with a few bad jokes which only LCpl Josie Tuppen found funny, Company Signallers from the Grenadier Guards so I, along with we formed up outside. LCpls Galey, Tuppen and Vine, as well as Sig Clark, got to spend an enjoyable fortnight in London. We had a short march round to a grassed area where we were presented with our Operational Service Medals by Maj Gen The final ex we deployed on was a Sqn live firing ex to bring the Cima, the Governor of the Tower of London. Sqn up to a level of shooting and infantry skills which would allow them to deploy. As with all range camps, it was an exceptionally One hour later, with Sig Wilson still miraculously upright, it was wet week but it was also a good opportunity to spend time with time for the march past the General. We managed the remainder friends before leave and then deployment on Op HERRICK 11. of the short march down to where the Sqn photo was to be taken and then dispersed to enjoy the remainder of the day with proud, and in some cases slightly tearful, families and friends.

It was a phenomenal day and an honour to have our medal parade at the Tower of London.

Proudly on display at Wembley

EXPERIENCE OF A FIRST OPERATIONAL TOUR - by Sig Davis The OC leads the Sqn in the Tower of London A young Signaller, fresh out of training, I arrived at 261 Sig Sqn in October 2009 and within 3 weeks I found myself jumping on a 11 LT BDE HQ & SIG SQN (261) PARLIAMENTARY VISIT plane at Brize Norton heading for Afghanistan. - by Sig May

After my RSOI package I dragged all my kit on to a Chinook 11 Lt Bde HQ and Sig Sqn (261) had the honour of being invited heading for Lashkar Gah, where I spent most of my 4 month tour. to the Houses of Parliament for a Parliamentary Welcome on Once settled in to my new home I quickly got into the swing of Monday 7 June. It was only the fourth time a returning Bde has life in the Task Force HQ; manning the radios, conducting Sanger had the honour of marching past Parliament Square and into the stags and maintaining morale by taking on a challenge of eating Houses of Parliament. Representing 261 Sig Sqn were Maj Ian half of a huge, Army issued, Banoffi pie! Hargreaves, Capt Rachel Thompson, SSgt ‘Nipper’ Sherlock, Cpl ‘Mac’ McCarthy, LCpl ‘Dexter’ Globe and Sig ‘Daisy’ May. Life on tour is completely different to basic training, but with the wealth of experience around me I had people to turn to for advice We arrived in Wellington Barracks (home to the Grenadier Guards) and guidance whenever I needed. I learnt a lot on tour, especially with plenty of time before the parade began, so in true Army style from LCpl ‘Future Yeoman’ Dixon, who always offered his we had a last services on any comms problems, no matter what time of day or minute drill night! practice on the parade square. Towards the end of the tour I got the chance to deploy out on the As the parade ground, which was an amazing experience, opening my eyes to got underway, seeing the difference between life in the UK and Afghanistan. we marched from Wellington On arrival back in the UK I was met by my wife and became a Barracks, down dad a few days later, which was an amazing way to end the tour. Bird Cage Walk I thoroughly enjoyed my tour with 261 Sig Sqn and would gladly to the Houses deploy back out to Afghanistan. However I am currently enjoying of Parliament; life in the UK, safe and sound with my new family! the highlight of the march was THE MEDALS PARADE - by LCpl Vine most definitely walking past On Friday 21 May, at 0700, the officers and soldiers of 261 Sig the infamous Sqn departed Buller Barracks for the Tower of London. On arrival group of there was a brief pause which allowed soldiers to greet their protesters family and friends and bets to be placed as to whether Sig camped outside Callum ‘Willy’ Wilson would manage to stand upright for more Parliament than 5 minutes. Square!

Led by the Corps Band, with heads held high and chests proudly Arriving at the stuck out, we marched up to the Chapel for a short service, led Houses of by Padre Christian of 11 Lt Bde. After 45 minutes of Parliament, we 261 Sig Sqn at the Houses of Parliament

66 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 were greeted with cheers and clapping by the Members of Some personnel have already been posted, sent on their merry Parliament themselves, and were then invited inside for photos way to new lands. With a fond farewell and good luck from and free beer and a buffet (every soldier’s dream!). We were everyone remaining we are all certain of meeting again in the challenged by some of the MPs to drink parliament dry, which future. Those that are left have the joy of a Board of Officers and was a brave statement to make in our eyes. With the the handing over of vehicles and associated equipment to 661 Government’s current huge debt we decided to decline the offer, Sig Tp that will be taking the reins and supporting 101 Log Bde. but did enjoy the day by the Thames, well it beats doing a Board of Officers check which the guys were conducting back in the Since our return to the UK life has taken a much slower pace garages! than that of the previous 6 months (or some might say the last 24 months). Some of the troops are still adjusting to a very different Afterwards we enjoyed a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament life in the garages; the contrast from patrolling around the Green which included the Great Hall, The House of Lords and House of Zone to standing around the garages waiting for something to Commons. We were even lucky enough to witness two MPs happen takes a little getting used to. On the plus side there has having a heated debate, to which Cpl McCarthy wanted to “see been chance to slip in a cracking Medals Parade at the Tower of them fight to see who was best”! London, which was an amazing experience in itself with family and friends invited to watch the Sqn proudly march out in front of With our bellies full and beer glasses empty we left London and the crowds (even if the drill movements weren’t perfect!). made our way back to Aldershot. A very enjoyable day had by all and an honour to march through London to the Houses of There has also been some LSGC presentations thrown in for Parliament. good measure, congratulations go to the recipients of them. And just for the kids there have been PNCO and pre-CLM courses run THE END OF 11 LT BE HQ & SIG SQN (261) - by Sgt Eveleigh to keep them on their toes before attempting the courses themselves. However, before we all fly to the 4 corners of the It would appear to be the beginning of the end for 261 Sig Sqn, globe everyone is looking forward to a spot of Adventure Training part of 11 Lt Bde HQ. With a successful tour now firmly under in Bude. our belts and having all returned home to our families safe and sound, the bell has struck bringing the disbandment to a fine So as the last of the Sqn turns the light out as they leave its good Sqn. bye from me and goodbye from him. 102 LOGISTIC BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL SQUADRON (262) GÜTERSLOH

OC Maj K J Grice EXERCISE FLYING RHINO 2010 - by Sig R J Perkowski RSM WO1 (RSM) D Churchward On the 20 Apr 10, Comms Tp deployed to Sennelager railhead to FROM SHQ - by Maj K J Grice load up the vehicles for our journey to Namest Air Base in the Czech Republic. When we eventually arrived in Namest, the So I get this frenzied phone call from Maj ‘AJ’ Smith about 5 unloading of the train was a lot quicker than loading and we minutes after the RD results were released in late January 2010 : immediately departed to our location where we would be staying “Hi mate, really pleased… Oh by the way, prepare to move in for the duration of the 5 week exercise. about 6 weeks… Yeh – sod the August move – I deploy to Camp Leatherneck in April for a 12 month tour with 1 MEF, USMC (I The setup of the 102 Log Bde Theatre Support Group complex know, Mrs Smith is over the moon). Just duck out of London was fairly straight forward; the tables and benches went in first, early – you’ll be fine…” then came the laying of a lot of fibre around the building for the Bde LAN by the Technicians. And so it was that a HOTO was completed in March, having been employed in the MOD (Cap CCII) the month earlier. 102 Log Bde In the meantime the Operators were busy setting up the comms; HQ and Sig Sqn (262) is reducing in size under direction from HQ both Bowman 4f and PSC 506. When we had completed our LF in line with Op ENTIRETY. The Sqn becomes 102 Log Bde tasks 1(UK) DIV wired Cormorant, Div LAN and Bowman 5.4 into HQ and Sig Tp (662) on 1 November 2010. Our Roman the building. Numerals change from CCLXII (262) to DCLXII (662). While we will be a unit of about 50 comprising R Signals, RLC, AGC(SPS) Our main role throughout the ex was to support the TSG with and REME, we will continue to support 102 Log Bde HQ albeit in comms and admin. We also had time to do some much need line with HQ SOinC(A)’s intent of augmentation from across the MATTS and comms trg, which was integrated into the shift Royal Signals. It’s been fairly busy over my first 2 months in pattern. One of the Liaison Detachments was lucky enough to be command. We’ve delivered 2 CAST exercises on Princess Royal sent to Jince in order to communicate back to TSG the unloading Barracks, Gutersloh for Joint Force Support (A) 10 as part of a of the Ammunitions supply. They managed to maintain comms collegiate effort comprising elements of 7 Sig Reg and 2 Sig between TSG and themselves with Bowman and the PSC 506, Regt. Concurrently, we’ve supported Ex FLYING RHINO in the which turned out to be a much needed resource. Czech Republic and prepared for our Combined Inspection Week. We’re knee deep in leading the Bde through BCIP 5.4 uplift that The ex was a resounding success for Comms Tp, having starts in July 2010, and completes NLT 01 July 2011. By the time performed a vital role in providing both comms and support for this is published, WO2 (YofS) Ky Wilcockson will be firmly in the the TSG. chair as Bde YofS, and we will have bid a fond farewell to WO1 (YofS) Mark Allen as he departs to Bulford. We welcome Capt 102 LOG BDE HQ & SIG SQN MRX 2010 Claire Mikulla as the new Sqn 2IC and wish her well. My old - by WO2 (RQMS) A Buchan 2IC, Capt Russ Moody departed earlier this month and starts as Adjt 7 Sig Regt, filling the very large shoes of Capt (now A/Maj) The Sqn has been working flat-out since the beginning of the Zoe White MBE who trundled off to Corsham with Grace the year due to the impending deployment of the Bde HQ on OP Greyhound. The Ops Officer, Capt Jo Barr departs in July and HERRICK 12 as Joint Force Support (A) 10. The CAST MRX was moves to be 2IC 20 Armd Bde HQ and Sig Sqn (200) – we wish the final hurdle for the Sqn to get over; however this was going to her all the best. be a tricky one. Unfortunately for the Sqn the dates of the MRX

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 67 coincided with those of EX FLYING RHINO 10 which, we were sitting down having his lunch when approached, after he also committed to. To that end this MRX was most definitely explained the dilemma and when handed the nominal roll you can going to be a challenge. imagine what stops the RCWO pulled out to satisfy the demand. All his Chefs were re-tasked and with less than 5 minutes to Hangar 6 was the venue for the ex which was kindly emptied and spare, the demand was met. Even though the RQMS lost a few vacated by 1 LSR. In order to overcome our Operator shortage, pounds running around and gained a few grey hairs in the 219 Sig Sqn were drafted in from 2 Sig Regt to supply the process, we did have a happy Brigade Commander. comms for the MRX, but before they could even start, the G4 team had several trips to Loan Pools in Dulmen to ensure that we BRIGADE SAAM - by LCpl R Worledge had all the equipment required. The setup was underway and with over 100 6ft GS tables humped and dumped into the Hangar The 262 Sig Sqn shooting team was made up of the team captain and placed carefully into position as per the comms diagram, 219 WO2 (FofS) Gordon, LCpl Worledge, Sig O’Connor and Sig Sig Sqn got to work implementing the comms plan. Rattray. Day 1 and 2 consisted of practice shoots where we could run through all the different competition shoots that we Our attention now turned to the Real Life Support element which were going to be doing over the next couple of days. This was a unfortunately had grown arms and legs since the CAST exercise good job as only WO2 (FofS) Gordon had done any of the we had only completed a few weeks earlier. The biggest shoots before and when they were explained to us, they headache on the G4 front was the accommodation plan. In a appeared rather complicated and difficult to remember, so this camp with no transit rooms and with over 90 pax to was a good chance to get familiar with the different shoots as accommodate, this was going to be tricky. A miracle was needed during the competition there would be no instructions given. The and a miracle is what we got, this came in the form of the new competition proper started on day 3 where we had our first 2 Sgts’ Mess accommodation blocks being opened on the 28 April shoots. A solid display from all members of the team saw thus freeing up 76 bed spaces in the old Mess annex. The only confidence levels going up and we could feel our skills improving. problem now was could we get the old Mess accommodation Day 4 followed with another 2 team shoots and the individual turned around in time? But thanks to ‘Henry the Hoover’ and Cpl pistols event, where WO2 (FofS) Gordon was the only member of Tom Gaffney and his team of happy helpers, there was no need the team competing. This was a relief for the other members of to worry. the team as the pistol shoot was even more complicated than all the rifle shoots put together. The day was another solid display The setup was always going to be an emotional one, with 5 x (18 of our skills, however a couple of simple mistakes cost of a x 36), 1 x (12 x 24), 4 x (12 x 12) and 1 x OFCS field kitchen to number of points which would in the end cost us a position or erect. All the hard work paid off however; and SO2 G3 Ops – two. Day 5 was the final shoot; the falling plate competition a Maj Neil Brown (SCOTS) and the Bde Comd were pleasantly totally separate event that was run as a knock out event, where 2 content on their walk round. Everything was now in place for the teams were drawn against each other and had to run from 100 arrival of Theatre Troops. With nearly 180 personnel to look after metres behind the firing point, get into position and then knock for the week and a high powered VIP visit day to plan, the G4 down 10 plates. The first to achieve this would go through to the staff had its work cut out. Every day began at 0600hrs, unless next round. On the command we sprinted to the firing point and you were employed in the kitchen with the Master Chef where the within what seemed like seconds all our plates were down; a day began at 0430hrs. Breakfast was served between 0700 - comfortable win saw us through to the next round. The second 0800hrs but funnily enough most people turned up between round came and we were full of confidence and the procedure 0745hrs & 0800hrs. was repeated. However the first 9 targets went down but the 10th one refused to drop leading to our early elimination. Overall the 262 Sig Sqn team was placed 7th out of 13 teams; a respectable placing as this was the first appearance at a shooting event for most of the team.

Thankfully the weather was good during the week and all in all the Bde SAAM was a huge success, not so much in terms of winning trophies but in terms of enjoyment and a definite improvement in our shooting skills.

102 Log Bde HQ & Sig Sqn MRX - If they only knew what it took to get it looking like this!

The VIP day was suddenly upon us and everything was in place. Tea, coffee and cakes were served on arrival and a finger buffet as tasked was prepared for lunch. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the VIPs had not been fed on the flight across and unfortunately had not eaten all day, so unfortunately the finger buffet was not sufficient enough to satisfy their hunger. The 102 Log Bde HQ & Sig Sqn (262) shooting team getting With 40 mins left of the visit the RQMS was asked by the visits ready for their first shoot of the day! officer if he could get 25 packed meals made up? Armed with a nominal roll which had the name of the Comd Field Army at the SNOWBOARDING - by LCpl J Page top, and swiftly followed by numerous other high powered VIPs, totalling no less than 20 stars the RQMS headed off at speed to In March three members of 262 Sig Sqn deployed on Ex the main kitchen in search of the RCWO. Luckily the RCWO was MERCURY SNOW RIDER. Led by Cpl ‘El’ Mitropoulou, we

68 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 deployed into heavy snow and the worst road conditions that improved in their ability, be it in confidence, technique or style southern Germany had to offer, where one sleeping member of and all the training built up to race week. Each of the ability the team was awoken by the minibus going sideways. On the groups had their own races and male and female riders had first day we were split into our respective ability groups with separate competitions, with Cpl Mitropoulou having some funny some of us heading straight up the mountain and the novices albeit painful looking crashes. If there are two things you could staying on the Nursery slopes to get to grips with having both ever want to mix together it would be snowboarding during the feet strapped to something. Over the next 2 weeks everybody day followed by JaegerBombs in the evening. 12 MECHANIZED BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL SQUADRON (228) BULFORD

THE THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE - by Cpl Heyden

In June, Cpl Simon McCann organised for 15 members of 228 Sig Sqn to complete the Three Peaks Challenge in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund. After a 12 hour minibus journey from hell, we stood at the bottom of the first peak on the agenda, Ben Nevis. After a few photos and some last minute kit checks we were off and the race between us and the stopwatch had begun. We set off at a cracking pace but we would soon find out that it was a little quick for a few members of the team and slowed down a little. After crossing some snow and ice we reached our first peak but there was no time to rest on our laurels and we soon began our decent back to the minibuses. Once down, the admin team had our boxes of goodies waiting for us. We quickly took on board some fluids and food before setting off to our next location, Scafell Pike.

Five hours and a few bouts of cramp later we arrived at Scafell 228 Sig Sqn Three Peaks Team on Ben Nevis Pike. By this point in the competition it was the middle of the night and visibility was quite poor, which to be honest was no bad thing as I’m sure nobody really wanted to see the challenge that lay ahead of us. As we reached the peak, the sun was beginning to rise and after a few minutes of taking in the view and having a quick photo, we were on to our next challenge. Another 5 hours later and a shout out from Radio 1 presenter Chris Moyles, we arrived at the third and final peak, Snowdon. It was evident at this point that a few members of the team were carrying injuries ranging from twisted ankles to jarred knees, but there was no thought of quitting with the finishing line so close. As the sun beat down on us we started our climb to the peak. It felt like it was getting warmer with every step we took and as we arrived at the top we were met by well wishers, which spurred us on for the final descent. When we arrived at the finish line we were greeted a well deserved feast of bacon and sausage sandwiches.

In the end, the team managed to raise a fantastic £3,000 for ABF and all members completed the Three Peaks Challenge in a very respectable time of twenty one hours and thirty minutes. 228 Sig Sqn Three Peaks Team on the side of Snowdon

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

OC Major A R Fawcett we were staying for the week. WO1 (RSM) Oliver was a long RSM WO1 (RSM) S Spink serving member of 216 and is now RSM of NCISS Latina. We were given a quick tour of the camp then left to relax and unpack. EXERCISE EAGLES TOUR - by Sgt Miller The first day of our Battlefield tour saw us going to Cassino, the home place of the famous battle for Monte Cassino. We were Ex EAGLES TOUR was a battlefield tour in Italy organised by Sgt met by our tour guide, Daniella, who would be showing us ‘Milf’ Miller. The ex almost fell at the first hurdle as volcanic around for the rest of the week. She took us to see the only eruptions threatened to limit our travels to Stansted Airport. We Italian War grave in the world and the Commonwealth Cemetery. arrived at the airport 5 hours before our check in time prompting Looking around these cemeteries was quite moving as we read quite a bit of banter from Cpl ‘Woody’ Wood and Sgt Shaun the script on graves realising some of the lads that died were only Hernon aimed at Sgt Miller. 17 or 18 years old.

On arrival at Rome airport we were met by WO1 (RSM) ‘Olly’ On the second day of the tour Daniella took us up to Monte Oliver who picked us up and drove us to the NATO camp where Cassino abbey. She explained to us that the abbey was

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 69 completely reduced to a pile of rubble during the war but was EXERCISE PASHTUN GRYPHON 1 - by Sig Parker rebuilt afterwards and is now home to the local monks. We left the abbey to visit a Polish and a German cemetery. Although the On the 27 May 10 TFHQ Tp deployed on Ex PASHTUN Germans were the enemy during the War we realised that the GRYPHON 1 where we arrived at Knook Camp and took over our soldiers that died were doing exactly the same job as us. It gave accommodation. The ex was to take place in the nearby the trip a better perspective seeing the war in Italy from the Combined Arms Tactical Trainer in Warminster. This ex had the German as well as the Allied point of view. We finished the day at potential to be quite demanding due to the fact that this was the Monte Casino with a BBQ and a couple of beers. first time the newly formed TFHQ Tp had deployed on exercise as an entity, led by Lt Harrison and Sgt Miller.

Before the ex began we conducted some low level troop training. Firstly, Sgt Miller took us through MATT 3 – BCDT. Everyone passed, allowing us to progress on to the next level before deploying on Op HERRICK 13. We also conducted some reports and returns training using both VHF and HF means. As STARTEX approached on Sun 30 May, we carried out some last minute adjustments of the HQ layout in preparation for receiving the Staff.

A strategically taken photo designed to hide the fact that Capt Harris is wearing desert wellies with trousers

The next day we visited Anzio, a coastal town were the Brits and Americans assaulted the beaches to help with the major push to Rome. We visited two more British cemeteries and an American one. Seeing all the white crosses and headstones really makes you understand how many people gave their life to fight for their country.

The final day of the tour was around the capital city of Rome. We visited the Coliseum and the Pantheon and it was very hard to believe that the buildings were over 2000 years old and that some are still exactly the same as back then. We visited the Vatican LCpl Abbott conducting some low level training and had a walk around the Sistine Chapel, which was also an amazing sight. Our main tasks were split into 2 areas; firstly as operators we were required to support the JOC by maintaining a listening All the lads would like to thank WO1 (RSM) Oliver for looking watch on the COMD Net and logging the traffic in case JChat after us, Daniella for being a great tour guide, and Sgt Miller for went down. These nets were on an emulated BOWMAN system organising a fantastic trip away. and we had to familiarise the staff so they were comfortable with the setup. With the 2 Watchkeepers being extremely busy we had to be on the ball to assist should an incident occur.

Secondly, we provided a J6 Helpdesk facility to the Bde staff officers to provide a robust fault reporting chain back through the HICS Tp provided by 3 DSR. As was inevitable, a number of teething problems came to light but after some initial friction, the procedures worked well. We settled into a 3-way shift pattern led by the Shift Commanders, Cpl Nolan, Cpl Brown and Cpl Prabeen, and rotated through the JOC and the Helpdesk to maximise training exposure.

Overall, the ex was successful and everyone gained something from the training. We now have 2 more brigade MST events before the deployment during which the pace will increase significantly. However, by the time we cross the Line of Departure to go on Op HERRICK 13 we should be experts The group with our tour guide, Daniella at working in TFHQ.

70 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 19 LIGHT BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL SQUADRON (209) LISBURN

OC Maj Jules G Hill After a few photos and about an hours break we took ourselves RSM WO1 (RSM) Paul Jordan down the 5 mile track to the bottom of Snowdon where Sgt Hanks was waiting with the mini bus to give us a well earned lift NOTES IN GENERAL FOR THE SQUADRON…. back to camp. After a shower back at Capel Curig and a bit of TLC on our feet we managed to go for a bite to eat and a well This has been a busy few months for the Sqn. We have deserved drink. The drinking didn’t last long as all of us just crammed in exercises, AT, charity events and a healthy amount of wanted to sleep with a few team members sleeping in the pub. competition – including a fair number of trophies along the way. There have also been a number of changes in Sqn personnel; in After another lovely nights sleep on our cam cots we were up at particular the OC will shortly be leaving on promotion to Lt Col as 0530 on Sunday to take down the tent, pack up our stuff and to SO1 G6 Commitments at HQ Land, the RSM on commissioning get eaten alive by every bug in North Wales. After a quick and posting to 16 Bde as the Welfare Officer and the arrival of not breakfast we set of for another ferry crossing but more only a Tp Comd, Capt Cyrus Karumba, but also congratulations importantly another 8 hours sleep. to him and his wife, Sasha, for the birth of their son, Cassius. The Welsh 1000 is a very demanding competition but now on We are all now firmly focused on meeting the demands of Askari looking back it was a great achievement and is something I would Thunder exercises – the first of their type. Kenya will be new recommend anyone to take part in next years event. ground for the majority of people in the Sqn – it’s just a shame that it didn’t coincide with the world cup!

The Sqn is in really good shape and ready for the challenges the Bde might throw in our direction.

The Welsh 1000 - by LCpl Peter Cunningham

The Welsh 1000 is a 26 mile endurance race over 4 peaks in North Wales with the finish line at the top of Snowdon, so 209 Sig Sqn decided to enter a team.

In true Signals style we got to do a full days works before meeting up on Thursday 3 June at 1930 at the back for SHQ to catch the over night ferry from Belfast to Liverpool. After a few celebration drinks for Sgt Tom Hanks’ 32nd birthday on the ferry we all got our heads down in the no expense spared cabins on the ferry.

After a 0530 wake up call and a 0630 docking on the morning of the 4th we got on our way to North Wales arriving at Capel Curig for 0930 which gave us plenty of time to erect a 12x12 tent in The Welsh 1000 finish line taken at the top of Snowdon the only which we slept in as all the block accommodation was fully problem now is to get down the Mountain after 26 miles booked. MERCURY 500 - by LCpl Greg Rhodes After registration at 1900 on the Friday night in which we got our race bracelets and numbers for the event we nipped in to Bangor The Mercury 500 is a charity endurance race set up to help the for a good meal to set us up for the following days jolly. All we Corps raise money to send a team to the Scott Amundsen race needed was a good night’s sleep which was some times to reach the South Pole. 209 Sig Sqn’s part in this event was for interrupted by the snoring of Lt Wall. 10 members complete 500 laps of Blandford camp’s 400 meter running track equalling to 200 km in the quickest possible time. With a 0530 start on Saturday a quick wash and a light breakfast Each team member was to run 50 laps carrying a 30lb day sack. we got on the road and headed for the start which was in Abergwyngregyn on the coast. After listening to the last points Our team consisted of the Sqn 2IC Capt ‘Ollie’ Ford, SSgt ‘Red’ from the marshals we broke into 2 teams consisting of Cpl Brett Davies, Sgt ‘Tom’ Hanks. Sgt ‘Jack’ Hawkins, Cpl Brett Verth, Verth, LCpl Greg Rhodes and LCpl Paddy Cunningham as LCpl Greg Rhodes, LCpl ‘Paddy’ Cunningham, LCpl ‘Bungle’ team A and team B consisting of Lt Wall, LCpl Andy Yeomans Balharry, LCpl ‘Cam’ Allen ( REME), Sig Kris Harrison plus 2 and Sig Shawn Morgan. Then at 0730 with up to 300 others we admin support, Cpl ‘Daz’ Rowe and Sig Shawn Morgan. We were set on our way. started our long journey from Northern Ireland to Dorset on the evening of Tuesday 20th April. After catching the overnight ferry After jogging for the first kilometre we set into a steady tab and from Belfast to Birkenhead we docked at 0630 on the morning of prepared ourselves for the first peak, Liewellyn being 1062 the 21st and began our drive to Blandford camp. As none of us meters. From there then on to Carnedd at 1044 meters, Crib-y- managed to make breakfast on the ferry and hunger setting in the Ddysadl at 1065 and always looking forward to Snowdon and all first point of call was McDonalds at the nearest service station, or of its 1085 metres. so we thought. After getting out of the mini bus we all realised it was in fact a Wimpy ……. which was closed. So a fry up was With various check points along the route and plenty of ups and now on the cards, which cost myself and Sig Harrison £12 for a downs we were lucky the weather was good to us and with a lot “FULL” English breakfast minus a brew! At Blandford we settled of grit and sweat and 26 long miles we met up on the top of into our accommodation and set off for a light run to loosen off Snowdon at 1700 to collect are well earned medals and a juice our legs. That evening we had a good meal down town followed form the café. by a few drinks back at camp.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 71 The morning of the 22nd started with another run round camp at The first week of tuition went very well for all members with the 1030 hours followed by a big breakfast at the Gorge café, once novices advancing at an impressive speed. The intermediates again Cpl Rowe was scamming in some way or another. After weren’t getting away easy and were rapidly moving through ordering a jumbo breakfast and emptying a salt shaker all over it various techniques of slalom racing and freestyle. 180s, Ollies the café owner gave him another for his mishap. As it arrived Cpl and other daftly named jumping styles were introduced although Rowe greeted it by yelling out “JUMMMMBOOO”, which was to Sig Jones seemed to be the only person with any great skill in become our word for the event. The event started that evening at them! Towards the end of the week the focus turned to race 2100 with Cpl Verth setting a blistering pace for our team with a training with the novices enjoying their first taste of dual slalom. 1.08 first lap – the quickest of the event. For the first 10 laps of With a few days of poor weather the intermediates were unable to the race we were neck and neck with 258 Sig Sqn, but as the practice too much freestyle (a good thing given the number of race settled down into the early hours of the morning they slowly people in hospital by this point) and the main attraction became pulled away from us. We were well out in second place, the only the boarder cross. With most of us having only seen this on the team near to us was one from 30 Sig Regt. Our plan of running Olympics before it turned out to be just as hard as it looks. The one lap and having 9 off started to take its toll on the team as news that the novices would also be racing 4 at a time on the morning broke and hot on our heels was the team from 30 Sig boarder cross drew some worried looks but spirits were high as Regt. Eventually overtaken with 2 hours of the race left but with qualification for the racing began. All of the novices did third place guaranteed the only thing now keeping us going was amazingly well and all of them qualified to race, leaving them the copious amounts of lucozade and bananas we had all going in to the rest day proud of what they had achieved in one overstocked and Cpl Rowe once again yelling week on a snowboard. The intermediates were successful as “JUMMMMBOOOO” every time we crossed the start/finish line to well, with only one person not qualifying. start a new lap. After a few days of weather too bad to race in (a couple of great The whole team compled the race with only the 2IC being sick on ‘powder days’ though!), the racing began with anticipation and his third lap, which somehow made him run faster, we finished there was some great slalom races from all abilities. There were the race in third place in 14 hours and 6 minutes. Quite an also a few great crashes, especially from Sig Newton. With the achievement as all our training was done at Thiepval barracks weather unfortunately preventing the freestyle competition going and without the benefit of a running track. ahead, the boarder cross was next on the agenda with all but one person qualifying again. The novices did brilliantly in a very high In the end….. We are not judged by our wealth, our knowledge or standard course, putting in maximum effort in the knockout our contribution to mankind ……. but on how fast we completed stages. Sig Stewart did particularly well, coming third of all the the Mercury 500 ………. 14 hours 6 minutes. novice girls. Sig Jones showed her complete lack of fear, going all out to come a very close second in the intermediate/advanced girls competition. Combined with her high result in the dual slalom, this meant that she was selected for the Corps Snowboarding Team. Cpl Miller also returned home with some much deserved silverware, after being awarded the ‘Riders’ Rider’ cup for his efforts in looking after an injured member of the camp.

The Mercury 500 Team before the start EXERCISE MERCURY SNOWRIDER 1 - by Sig Lee Newton

On 4 March 10 members of 209 Sig Sqn (well, 9 and a pretender Sig Newton discovering that upside down is not fast from 225 Sig Sqn (ECM)) deployed from Lisburn to go on Ex MERCURY SNOWRIDER 1. It was to be a long journey, involving Overall, all 10 members of the Sqn’s entry to the Corps 2 ferries, 2 sets of hire vehicles and a lot of miles - not a journey Championships thoroughly enjoyed the 2 weeks. It was a well to be recommended. The Sat Nav started blatantly lying to us organised camp and was a great opportunity to introduce several when we arrived in France and its estimation of 12 hrs to the members of the Sqn to a new sport. Judging by the number of resort was at least 6 hours out. Frozen windscreen washers and new snowboards in the bus on the way home they are all hoping a blizzard didn’t help, although we were glad of the effort we’d to go again next year for another shot at the boarder cross! gone to get winter tyres when we passed the team from 10 Sig Regt frantically trying to fit snow chains at 0030hrs!

After an initial admin day of hiring snowboard kit and meals of crisps (apparently supermarkets don’t open on Sundays in Austria), the snowboarding finally began and the 10 of us were split into ability groups. The novices of SSgt ‘Red’ Davis, Cpl ‘Scotty’ MacDonald, LCpl Kelly Bradley and Sigs Karla Stewart, Matt Scrupps and Lee Newton had their first introduction to the joys (and pains) of snowboarding while the intermediates of Capt Rachel Clayton, Cpl Jay Preston, Cpl Kev Miller and Sig Rachel Jones headed off up the mountain. The novices were soon in pursuit and after numerous falls and tumbles were soon getting the hang of it, although how Sig Scrupps managed to get through three days without anyone realising he could only turn one way is still a mystery! Sig Karla Stewart after a hard day on the race course

72 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 3 DIVISION OPERATIONAL SHOOTING COMPETITION 209 FEMALE TUG OF WAR TEAM - by Sig Karla Stewart - by Sig Jamie Walker On Wednesday 18 May 2010 it was 209 Sig Sqn’s female Tug of After recently becoming Minor Unit Champions at the CORPS War team’s first compitition at the Morrison’s cup held in OSC, the 209 Sig Sqn team consisting of 8 shooters and 3 admin Blandford. In the team there was our Coach SSgt Davis, Sig staff left Thiepval Barracks for Bulford ranges to try their luck in Stewart, LCpl Broatch, Sgt Whelan, Sig Owen, LCpl Franks, the 3 DIV OSC. LCpl Jackson, Sgt Fairbairn, LCpl Bradley and last but not least our water and taccy girl LCpl Wade. Leaving Northern Ireland on a Monday night we set sail for our 5 star accomodation in Westdown Camp on Salisbury plain. After As a team we had not pulled a live end, so our first pull against 3 the admin staff came back from the brief on the first night we Div Sig Regt was a bit of a shock to us all but we fought hard and were informed that we had missed the practice shoots and going won 2 ends. Our next pull was against 10 Sig Bde. Once again straight into the competition the following morning. they made us work for our win. We had one final pull against 11 Sig Regt to determine who we were pulling against in the final. So after an early night, the team got up and zeroed ready for the Unfortunatly for us 11 Sig Regt beat us by 2 ends but it was not first shoot of the competition, the Para Cup. Although we weren’t over, this meant we had 11 Sig Regt in the final. there for the practice we didn’t embarrass ourselves, Cpl Kev Miller scoring highest in the team. The team was split into an A All the girls had done so well to get to this point already and they and B fire-teams with Lt Wall and LCpl Alfereti as the fire-team were all excited to be in the final. For the first pull against 11 Sig captains. The Para Cup consisted of running 500 meters to the Regt we held them for quite a while but got taken forward, 11 500 meter point then doing numerous numbers of bounds Sigs won that end. The 2nd end we held them for as long as we shooting at the 400,300,200,100 metre marks. possibly could then our luck was in, we took them back and kept going just inches away from the finish line then we lost it and they The next shoot was the gunner shoot. Sig Lee Newton and managed to take it back to win the Morrisons Cup, leaving us a LCpl ‘Slim’ Hebditch took part in this event. Both teams then close second. entered the Robinsons cup. This was probably the hardest of all as you were in the prone position on concrete – particularly painful! We were in this position for 8 minutes only firing 10 rounds at the targets at different intervals. After this shoot our elbows were looking very bruised and abused.

We entered a 4 man team for the final shoot which was the falling plate knock out competition. The team got through the first round by defeating a team from the RAMC but were knocked out in the second round by a team from 2RGR who flew over from Brunei for the competition. Although we were knocked out it was a cracking shoot and was really close.

As soon as the shoot was finished it was a mad dash to get changed and straight in the vehicles for a long drive back to Liverpool to catch the ferry. After a couple of celebratory beers, we were rocked asleep by the waves as we crossed the Irish Sea back to Belfast. Overall it was an excellent event and I hope to 209 Sig Sqn tug of war team after a day of tugging! compete next year. THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA MARATHON CORPS OPERATIONAL SHOOTING COMPETITION - by Captain Ollie Ford - by Sig Lee Newton In January a rather cryptic email was sent out asking for On Sunday 18 April 209 Siq Sqn consisting of myself, 2Lt Wall, volunteers to do a running expedition to China. Unsure of the SSgt Smith, and Cpl Miller left Thiepval barracks to head for the details I immediately volunteered as it was certainly going to be Corps OSC in Pirbright. We were not too sceptical about winning more fun than my usual daily routine. However, my initial anything as we had only spent 3 days on the range previously jubilation about 10 days out of office turned to trepidation as I (one day including zeroing). However, we had practiced a couple realised that I had signed up for the Great Wall of China of the competition shoots. Marathon…..

On day one our first shoot was the FIBUA shoot, which thankfully Preparations began, local information was sought and then I was one that we had practiced. I think we all did reasonably well started training for the Mercury 500 – it’s always best to train for a and soon realised that we were one of the only teams with the marathon by doing a sprint event with weight on. After that we new operational down grips. This turned out to be a bit of a cajoled family and friends into donating money to our chosen downer for us as there were certain restrictions on whether we charity, BLESMA, and booked our flights. could use them or not. We landed in Beijing and immediately turned to local As the week progressed we moved onto the other shoots such as familiarisation – good pub 20 minutes from hotel! Throughout the Roberts Cup, the Roupel Cup, the association match and a the next few days in the lead up to the race, we were shown few others. The final shoot that we did was the falling plate shoot around some of the finest sights in the Beijing area including which involved us sprinting 100m against the clock, going under Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Qing Tombs. then over obstacles and shooting down the plates. This shoot as Quite unique and unlike anything you will see in a western city, it turned out qualified us for the minor units trophy, (as there were these aspects of Chinese history both old and modern were a no other minor units at the competition). Although I would like to startling insight into a completely different ideology and culture. think that after the effort we all put in that we would have done There were, nonetheless, many common themes with the enough to win this coveted prize with or without any other minor capitalist west – shopping malls selling luxury goods, units. entrepreneurial hawkers at every corner and massive skyscrapers across the city. All in all it was a good week and one which I and the team certainly enjoyed. We look forward to defending our trophy next Eventually, the big day arrived and after an enormous pasta year! dinner on the Friday night we boarded coaches to take us to the

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 73 massive fort that Capt Ross Schreiber of 38 Engineer Regt; I managed 5h 28m became start, finish which was quicker than the US Marines who were bigging it up at and admin area for the the start!! event. We started the race at about 0730 It was a fantastic experience and one which I hope to repeat with leaving in 2 waves and a quicker time in the future. Particular thanks to Maj Lee Smart headed onto the main for putting the idea in our heads, his language skills and local road, complete with knowledge. traffic, before starting a 5km hill climb to the section of the wall we were to cross. Four km of steeply undulating paths and steps along the great wall came next, over 5,000 steps in fact, then back down to ground level, through the fort for the second The first crossing - still smiling time and onto a 20km+ road run including another “mountain climb” through rural villages. Here we were met by cheering locals, more traffic (which beeped at us to move out the way!) and regular water stops. After running back round to the start point we then headed back up onto the wall for a second crossing, though the water had been exhausted by this point and there were a number of extremely disheartened (broken) people littered around the steps before a final 5km downhill dash to the finish line. All 6 members of the team finished with the best time of 4h 55m by Runners on the wall

20 ARMOURED BRIGADE HEADQUARTERS AND SIGNAL SQUADRON (200) PADERBORN

OC Maj SW Whittley RSM WO1 (RSM) CA Hook

EXERCISE FLYING RHINO 10

On 26 April 2010, 200 Sig Sqn deployed on Ex Flying Rhino 10, a 5 week Divisional air land integration ex in the Czech Republic. In anticipation of HQ 20 Armd Bde staff due to arrive 2 weeks later (why did we get here so…?), the Sqn deployed the HQ in record time in order to focus on the real task – a night in Prague! After 3 days of fiddling, titivating, and fiddling with the titivator, we had provided all the necessary ICS and attention to detail that the Bde staff expected. However, there was even more fiddling to follow, in almost criminal proportions - enter WO2 (FofS) Kev McDonald. With Prague only 40 minutes away, and screaming for us to come and join the party, only the FofS stood in our way. So every cable was hidden, every zip-tie snipped, each UDT neatly labelled, and every spare man searching for the Foreman’s LCpl Sellers and Sig Picard (1 ADSR) hard at work mug. He luckily escaped a mindless attack on his brew from sleeping tablets and laxatives in an ambitious attempt to send With the ex start date getting closer, PT suddenly stepped up a him to bed for a week. notch, when we decided to complete the hardest CFT route in the history of the Corps, beginning with 3 miles up-hill to the sound The madness soon stopped, and with only one mini-bus between of ‘Hi Ho Silver!’. This acted as a useful leg-stretch for the the Sqn, Sgt Paul Walton, devised a more complex plan than the Lanyard Trophy team, who are currently dictating a gruelling D-Day landings to make it work. Now, like every other unit on the regime of fitness throughout the Sqn. On 9 May, the focus beer, we did have some dramas. Remarkably, no one was quickly changed back to the HQ as we awaited the arrival of the arrested, apart from the mini-bus, who parked illegally outside the Bde staff. With Bowman, Cormorant, and Reacher all in location, Seychelles consulate building and was subsequently towed to the Ex FR 10 offered an excellent opportunity for cross training, and nearest compound. SSgt Chris Moore, thankfully bailed out the some useful insight for the budding Yeoman’s including Sgt Chris red-faced 9 seater, and blamed himself for leaving it there. Cpl Si Brown. Some newer members of the Sqn who required class 2 Goddard, did not get left behind and did not pay the entire Greek status were tested throughout, and those not familiar with deficit for a taxi back. And Sig Mayes, did not drive around the Bowman prior to posting had a steep learning curve. A lucky country until 6am before waking everyone in the bus to declare few, including LCpl Paul Hill, were taken to 2 R Anglian mortar he was lost. Never have I seen such self-control from a group of line to fire the 81mm. LCpl Dave Paige, managed to baffle us soldiers in a city famous for lap-dancing clubs, to just simply walk with his relentless logic, and is currently writing his debut book on by, and instead, settle for a quiet drink in the Irish Bar, while Dave’s logic. Sig Newton, displayed his unique operating skills showing the kind of values and standards that the Pope would be throughout the ex, and was duly rewarded with the ‘buy 23 crates proud of. That is our story and we’re sticking to it. of beer for the bar’ award.

74 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 the equipment. During the visit, Brig Flint also had the pleasure of presenting the Sqn QM, Capt P McGarry, with a Joint Force Commander’s Commendation for his outstanding work on Op TELIC 13 and LCpl Drummond was presented with a hard earned ‘300 club’ t-shirt. Before leaving, the SOinC(A) opened the Sqn’s brand new gym, the aptly named Gauntlet Gun Club, then Maj Whittley presented the CRSM and the SOinC(A) each with a 20 Brigade Iron Fist to commemorate their visit.

Camp SSM Moore and SSgt (YofS) Taylor at loggerheads Shortly before endex, we received a visit from CGS, and Comd Fd Army, along with the Czech interior minister and every Czech who owns a camera. This, as you could imagine caused quiet a stir, and with new BFBS reporter Miss Veronica Cornerstone on location, it wasn’t long before the OC suddenly remembered his responsibilities as media host, and helpfully kept a close eye (both eyes) on her throughout. Another successful outing for the senior Sig Sqn. Bring on BATUS...

SOINC (A) VISIT - by 2Lt Anthony Hynes LCpl Drummond receives her well earned 300 club t-shirt In his final few months as SOinC(A), Brig TD Flint, along with the Corps RSM,WO1 (CRSM) D Taylor, visited 20 Armd Bde HQ & EXERCISE GAUNTLET CANTER - by Cpl Chris Brogan Sig Sqn (200) at Talbot Barracks on Tuesday 4 May. On Thursday 29 April, 13 members of 200 Sig Sqn paraded ready to depart for Calais on a unit Command and Leadership study weekend. WO2 (RQMS) Charlie Kama did a quick sanity check “everyone got your passports?” A group of heads nodding then one outburst indicating a forgotten passport and who was this admin case, a young signaller, an inexperienced NCO perhaps? No, none other than SSgt Richie Brown.

SOinC(A) Brig Flint addresses members of the Sqn

The SOinC(A) was treated to a top drawer curry lunch provided by LCpl Elder, where he got the chance to chat to members of the Sqn. In the afternoon Brig Flint was invited to take the ‘Driver Lineman Storeman Challenge’ where he managed to beat the CRSM after some fast typing on UNICOM, mastery of a forklift to load a TCV with a pallet of boxes and Members of the Sqn visit the Imperial War Museum then driving the TCV to Our first stop was the Imperial War Museum which, on first the finish line. inspection of the outside, looked fairly unimpressive. Fortunately we were early so had time to kill before it opened, so it was a He then quick detour to a coffee stand to grab a brew and use the visited facilities. Once the museum was opened a rendezvous time and Euphrates Tp, place was set and we were off to enjoy what the museum had to the BCIP offer. I am pleased to say that my early observations were both uplift tp. Lt premature and inaccurate as the museum was a lot larger and Wallace gave much more impressive than I thought and upon exiting for our pre an overview arranged rendezvous I was glad to hear I was not the only one of the tp who thought I could easily spend another couple of hours inside. tasking and a Unfortunately there were not enough hours in the day. Our next walk through, stop was The Royal Hospital Chelsea for a pre arranged tour with talk through of The great fork lift race gets under way the Chelsea pensioners.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 75 Our Guide for the day was Paddy Fox who as the name suggests detachment for deployment, where we were going to site our hailed from the emerald isles, so he immediately hit it off with Maj detachments and what means of communication we were to use. Stu Whittley. Shortly after, Sig Johnston and I quickly got to work making sure It was clear from the atmosphere and attitude of residents that we were ready and fully prepared. This included making sure we this was a fantastic place to live. Paddy Fox was a fantastic had all the necessary comms equipment for the task, personal entertainer and kept us all in stitches as he regaled us with kit, radios ready to go, trailer packed correctly and attached. I anecdotes of his time in the Army and the hospital. had to make sure we had everything from the Camnet to Mast adaptors. It was likely a HCDR (High-Capacity Data Radio) antenna would be elevated at some point as trials had taken place a couple of weeks earlier which had proven data to be difficult in the area from just the vehicle mount.

Sig Newton proves his worth At 0930hrs we were given the call to head out, a quick radio check to our controlling station revealed our HF radio had Members of the Sqn with Chelsea pensioner Paddy Fox dropped its fill;, bad start. After quickly dealing with the problem, we were back on the road. Our first location was a large clearing At the end of the tour there was an opportunity to do some only 2kms away (the site had recently been used as a mortar shopping in the Museum. On site were several members of the firing position). We were only a short distance away from the site group who bought a copy of the Pensioners cook book which when my co-driver gave me a wrong direction down a narrow coincidently had a recipe for Moussaka from Paddy Fox. It was gated off road which was almost impossible to turnaround with a then suggested that he might like to sign the books to be given to trailer. This cost us valuable time. wives as gifts, Paddy suggested we should do that in the “Welfare Facility” and not one to turn down the opportunity to buy Once we arrived in location, the trailer was disconnected and an old boy a beverage we graciously accepted. positioned next to the FFR, the LFG was then taken out and set up to supply power to the vehicle batteries. Next we set up a After a few drinks the OC thanked all for hosting us and 9x9 tent at the rear of the vehicle in case we wanted to use presented “The Iron Fist” as a memento to the Hospital to remoting and/or have an admin area. The camnet was then commemorate our visit and also a Sqn plaque to Paddy Fox in sprawled across the detachment and pegged out. Whilst Sig thanks for his time and entertainment. A few drinks later and it Johnston finished off the camnet and put up the campoles, I was sadly time to leave, although I think I speak for everyone headed off to set up a PU12 mast in order to elevate a UHF when I say I would happily have spent the rest of the day with antenna. With everything set up we tested both VHF and HF these fantastic individuals. comms which proved to work first time, unlike data over HCDR which was not as successful. This was hands down the best part of the whole weekend and it was very moving to have been invited to visit the home of these We were still at the clearing for lunch. Shortly after we were given heroes past. I would personally like to thank Paddy Fox and all the go ahead to tear down and move to the next location. During the residents of the Royal Hospital Chelsea not only for their our departure disaster almost struck as our Rover struggled to service to this country, but also for the warm and welcoming pull itself through the thick swampy mud we were surrounded by, response to our visit. Also, thanks also goes out to QM Lt Col luckily enough it made it through. We arrived at our next location Andrew Hickling and Sgt Maj Bob Appleby for the hospitality almost before the other detachment had even left which we joked and giving us all a humbling experience of visiting this wonderful about as they didn’t even have the annoyance of a camnet. This establishment, we all look forward to visiting again soon. As we location was on a hill overlooking a range which had previously moved on to our next event of the day it was clear we had all been used as a target by artillery and mortar teams. been affected by this visit in a very positive way.

All that remains for me to say is a huge thank you on behalf of all of us to the QMs Department for organising this trip in particular WO2 (RQMS) Kama, Sgt Danny Carter and Cpl Mark Porter.

CLASS 3-2 DAY EXPERIENCE - by Sig Newton

It was 0715hrs, time to get out of my warm sleeping bag, and into the bitter cold Saturday morning breeze of Jince, Czech Republic. After I dragged myself through the usual shower/shave routine and rushed to breakfast, I conversed with my Class 3 workmates about the upcoming events of the day. Today we were going to prove ourselves worthy of becoming Class 2 Communication Systems Operators. At 0800hrs we met up inside the radio village for a briefing on how to properly prepare a Sig Johnson wins the moustache competition

76 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 The height of the site meant comms should be quite good; At around 1615hrs, 2Lt Thomas, SSgt Taylor, Cpl Yuille and Cpl however there was a dense amount of trees. VHF was still Birkett came to the site to see how we got on and ask us working however but we had lost our HF link. This meant we had questions relevant to completing our Class 3-2 workbook such as to set up the HF Broadband Antenna to enable us to get comms what we had done, what equipment we had used and how we back in at the range we were at, taking into consideration the overcame the faults we encountered. After that we were told to terrain we were on. We tested comms again with a call back to tear down and return back to HQ. Overall it was a good learning the controlling station;, it worked straight away, happy days. experience and refreshed certain skills which had faded since Sending data through the VHF worked however the HCDR was Blandford. All we can hope now is that we did enough to achieve still failing. Class 2. OTHER UNITS

IV (ARMY COOPERATION) SQUADRON RAF

GROUND LIAISON OFFICER No IV (ARMY COOPERATION) The final Ex which I have ‘endured’ with IV(AC) Sqn has been Ex SQN RAF, JOINT FORCE HARRIER - by Capt David Galey RED FLAG. This is an annual 4 week Ex at Nellis AirForce base, Nevada. Nellis was a 15 minute drive from our hotel just off the A variation of the post of Ground Liaison Officer (GLO) has Strip in Las Vegas. In many ways I found this to be a more existed in all RAF front line Sqns with a ground attack or support demanding Ex than any I have experienced in the Army! Having role since the Second World War. At various times since, its been struck by the professionalism of pilots in Scotland I felt this importance has been emphasised or degraded – during Op brought us back down to a more stereotypical image of the RAF GRANBY the British Army were unable to fill the needs of the pilot, ie drunk by a pool, not really capable of fending for post and USMC were asked for support. Since this period the themselves and almost always missing wallet (2 pilots), hotel keys standing of the entire Air Land Integration (ALI) piece has steadily (various), luggage (just the one – and to clarify – Pilots do not risen, with GLOs, JTACS, and FACs attracting volunteers from all carry ‘kit’ in Bergens they carry clothes in luggage), or a Cap Badges. combination of the three. To say that this Ex was socially and vocally led from the front by the Executive Offrs of the Sqn is a The role of the GLO on Operations is primarily to brief the pilots massive understatement. However, a month spent in Las Vegas prior to a Close Air Support (CAS) mission being flown. is not something I would advise anyone to consider lightly. Essentially translating the ‘Army speak’ of those in contact, or about to initiate a deliberate operation into a language which That said, Red Flag provided a level of training which would make aircrew can understand and enables them a full awareness of any Service in the UK jealous. It is a realistic combat training what is happening on the ground. The GLO, along with Sqn Int exercise involving the air forces of the US and its Allies. Red Flag Offr are typically the first and last 2 people spoken to prior to an is conducted on the 15,000 square mile Nevada test and training aircraft departing, in order to brief and then confirm the situation range, north of Las Vegas. The range contains a variety of small on the ground has not changed. With 1000lb weapons being towns and villages designed for CAS in the urban environment dropped well within 100 metres of friendly forces it is a vital task. and entire columns of armoured vehicles which can be fired In 2009 the Harrier Force returned from Op HERRICK having upon. The range also contained the ‘Box’, so to speak, a no fly spent 5 years rotating its 3 Sqns through the Theatre. area roughly 100 x 100 miles centred (allegedly) on Groom Lake – if it exists obviously. The Ex is split into day and night waves with Away from Operations the job is a great deal easier to timetable, more than 50 aircraft involved in each, meaning that for the 4 the primary task being educating the pilots on Army formation, week period, the airfield houses one of the largest and most tactics, doctrine and the latest Operations and equipment. Whilst capable Airforces in the world. Many of the US aircraft involved also being prepared to reprise the Operational role, as the Harrier got the RAF pilots as excited as a PTI with a bottle of spray tan. force permanently holds the RAF version of SLE and remains at high readiness for expeditionary warfare. The Operational role also reappears whenever an Ex begins – having a selection of useable scenarios helps a lot.

Now returned from HERRICK the Harrier Sqns have 3 main Exercises per year, the first held in Scotland, was a real eye- opener as to the professionalism and ability of those I worked with. Comparable to a full Bde level ex, it involves the planning of various scenarios in real time, followed by flying the missions. With 5+ Sqns in the air simultaneously and real aircraft playing enemy or ‘Red Air’ this is a challenging task. What surprised me most is that this training is driven and planned at the Flight Lt (SO3/Capt rank) with more senior pilots present only to fly in the missions. I have certainly never seen a Bde Ex where the COS has stood back and left the entire planning and decision making to SO3s. The second Ex involves up to 6 weeks on an aircraft carrier, due to the need to practice amphibious landings and air operations in the littoral (coast area) this Ex is usually conducted off the west coast of the US and often within reach of New York – with weekends and other times being made available for ‘shore Capt Galey briefing pilots from IV(AC) Sqn prior to a mission leave’. during Ex Red Flag ‘10 in Nevada

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 77 The growing scope for posting within the ALI environment is not be spending 4 months as the SO2 Battlefield Coordination something which should be ignored by the Officers or Soldiers of Detachment (Army) (BCD(A)) in the US AFCENT CAOC, Al Udeid. the Royal Corps. Having attended the Forward Air Controller The CAOC runs all air in Iraq, HERRICK and anti-pirating Ops (FAC), Combat Ready Course I can comfortably say that the around the Horn of Africa. intelligence and technical ability of the Royal Signals soldier puts them at an advantage over the majority of those volunteering from other Cap Badges. Once qualified the opportunity to deploy with a BG as the FAC, bringing in air strikes and causing very real effects upon the enemy should appeal to many. The FAC has been termed a ‘Strategic Cpl’ for the reason that in very few other areas of the Army can a JNCO wield such powers of influence, both directly onto the battlefield and politically if he gets it wrong. The GLO post is again something which at senior Captain level is a real benefit. The chance to work in a teeth arm post, imbedded in another service affords an access to, and understanding of, combined arms (and working with and within the US system) which is not accessible to most R SIGNALS Captains.

My first year in post has been excellent, gaining experiences which can only be extremely useful in my later career whilst also having an enormous amount of fun! The next year should provide equal challenges and enjoyment. I hope to attend another Ex RED FLAG in 2011 and expect to spend some time on board one of the Aircraft carriers in September 2010. Before all of this I will The GLO with Pilots

JOINT COMMUNICATIONS UNIT (FALKLAND ISLANDS)

ISS SAI to carry us over and we currently sit joint 1st with the Resident Rapier Battery. There is everything to play for in April’s event - OC Maj Ben Howarth the X-Country! USM WO2 (USM) Will Morrow THE COMMONWEALTH BATON - LCpl Bronwen Bierman UNIT HEADQUARTERS The Unit was recently tasked, along with other units from across Another quarter has once again seen another turnover of BFSAI, to carry the Delhi 2010 Commonwealth Games Baton personnel. The start of April saw the departure of WO2 (USM) when it visited the Falklands on its world tour prior to the start of Steve Carley of the RLC and the arrival of his replacement, WO2 the games in October 2010. The team representing ISS SAI (USM) Will Morrow. We said cheerio to WO Dave Nolan RAF comprised of the OC, Ops Officer Flt Lt Nick Harris, Sgt and welcomed WO Simon Curtis RAF as the new XO and also O’Mahony-Doran, Sgt Rhys Williams RAF, Cpl Lee waved off our Chief Clerk Cpl Caz Bowen and ushered in her McClarence, LCpl Bronwen Bierman, LS Greenlees RN and replacement, Cpl Sarah Chapman. Pte Natalie Pearce AGC (SPS).

Amongst our sections, the IT Cell have said farewell to Sgt The Commonwealth Games committee had obviously been well Froggett in March and Sgt Jerry Newby RAF in April and briefed on the sort of weather the Falklands experiences and so welcomed their replacements Sgt Kev Spinks and Sgt Andy the baton had been cleverly prepared for its trip: it had its own Carrick RAF. In February our Commcen waved goodbye to PO little waterproof jacket for the rain and sparkly lights for the fog. Chris Holden RN and greeted PO Cameron Ross RN, while The baton was surprisingly heavy as it was filled with soil from all Syscon saw the departure of Sgt Madeline Tysoe RAF and the corners of India and this caused a lot of the RAF to struggle welcomed Sgt Rob Holland RAF. and have to employ the 2 man lift technique!

THE BFSAI CUP Led by Sgt O’Mahony-Doran, the sportsmen and women carried the Baton in turns on the road from Mare Harbour to the Mount January saw the beginning of the new BFSAI Cup 2010: 12 units Pleasant Complex before passing it on to the next team. The from across theatre will battle it out for the BFSAI Cup trophy Baton completed a shorter tour than most of its carriers though it over the coming year. The competition comprises of 11 sporting did see a lot better weather than most in the 2 days it was here. events: a swimming gala, 5-a-side football, cross country, Super Carrying the Commonwealth Games Baton was certainly a unique Teams, volleyball, racket sports, netball, kwik cricket, uni-hoc, the opportunity for those runners of the Unit and it will definitely be Turkey Trot (a 10km race) and a 10km march and shoot. ISS SAI added to the ever-increasing list of memories from this inimitable is looking to improve on our 4th position of 2009 and have made theatre! a cracking start in the first 3 events. An excellent performance in the swimming gala in January from the OC Maj Ben Howarth, the OpsO Flt Lt Nick Harris, Sgts Madeline Tysoe and Billy Evans, Cpl ‘Clazz’ McClarence, LCpl Abraham, AB Stacey Lismore, Pte Natalie Pearce, and Sigs Chris Page and ‘Demi’ Moore resulted in 2nd place, with LCpl Abraham, Sig Page and Sig Moore providing the laughs with their comical routine in the synchronised swimming event. ISS SAI continued their winning streak in the 5-a-side football tournament, lead by Cpl Dan Weatherhead, trouncing the competition and coming 1st. The third event of the BFSAI cup, the volleyball held in March, was a completely different story however with the Unit coming 9th! Though disappointing, our first 2 strong performances managed

78 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 PLEASANT PEAK MEMORIAL - LCpl Stephen Thomas “pep” talk: “Come on lads, if we win this we are…erm…winners!” Yeah cheers for that. As the day wore on shoulders were sore On Sunday 6 June 2010, members of ISS SAI from all 3 Services from carrying the 18kg. LCpl Abraham irritated everyone by attended a memorial service for 2 fallen Royal Corps of Signals continuing to look unfairly spritely, though as he was only carrying soldiers and two Army Air Corps soldiers of the 1982 war. The an 18lb handbag the rest of the team rewarded him with a semi- service takes place at Pleasant Peak annually, near to the sight of constant stream of grief from start to finish. the memorial for the 4 soldiers who lost their lives following a blue on blue accident on the same date in 1982. Although the As the final day started Cpl Barinisavu was having serious service took place at this specific memorial, all in attendance paid problems with his feet, with numerous blisters and some their respects to all fallen communicators throughout the more elephantine swelling on his sprained ankle. He showed some recent conflicts as well as past. great physical and mental courage to keep going. People were starting to get a little tired, and it was beginning to show, though At 1000hrs USM WO2 Morrow brought the parade to attention fortunately comic relief was never too far away. As we navigated for the arrival of OC ISS SAI Maj Howarth who gave the opening a small water crossing LCpl Smith decided to take the direct address. The Tp Comd, Lt George Merchant, followed with a route and immediately fell in, much to the amusement of the rest reading of an extract from the book One Hundred Days, giving a of the team. The next thing we saw was his dummy, which he brief outline of what happened to the 4 soldiers and the crucial spat out, floating down the stream. Next up was Sgt Craven, role the lack of personal communications played in the tragedy. who expertly threw his Bergan across to the other side, only to The OC read the Roll of Honour with all the names of the other see it promptly roll back down and follow the same route as LCpl Royal Signals soldiers who lost their lives during the Falklands Smith’s dummy. This was followed by another round of roaring War and a wreath from the Unit was laid by XO WO Curtis. After laughter which could be heard by the team that was a mile the traditional but always poignant 2 minute silence the USM behind us. The last leg took us through between Mount Longdon WO2 Morrow read the extract from For the Fallen. The youngest and Mount Tumbledown. Sgt Sila was the next to break and Signaller of the Unit, Sig “Demi” Moore, followed with the could be heard screaming “How much further is it…Which hills Collect of the Royal Corps of Signals, before the service was are we going past…Where on earth is Stanley?!” Once we brought to a close by the OC leading with the prayer for the calmed him down and assured him we were going in the right Forces of the Crown. direction we cracked on. As we entered Stanley, Cpl Barinisavu was in so much agony with his feet he decided it would be ok to EXERCISE CONDOR YOMP upend his rifle and use it as a crutch! After being swiftly reminded that this is not the correct way to use your rifle, and It all started on a dark and windy morning on 9 February 10. that we only had a few miles left, we picked up the pace. As we Seven teams from across Mount Pleasant Complex (MPC) neared the town centre we formed up into a smart body of men deployed by helicopter to Port San Carlos for Ex Condor Yomp, with berets on and heads held high. The locals looked on in awe, the 67 mile tab from Port San Carlos to Stanley carrying full kit which boosted the pace again. Up Globe Hill and in through (approx 18kg) to replicate 42 Commando’s insertion tab of 1982. Hillside camp gates we were finally greeted with applause. ISS SAI (JCUFI)’s team comprised of Sgt Chris Craven (30 Sig Regt), Sgt Meli Sila (22 Sig Regt), Cpl ‘Clazz’ McClarence and The total time taken was 22hrs 24mins. We were the fastest Cpl ‘Barney’ Barinisavu (both 10 Sig Regt), LCpl ‘Asbo’ team to finish with every team member covering every mile of the Abraham (10 Sig Regt) and LCpl Shane Smith (2 Sig Regt). race. Well done lads- a fantastic achievement. The event raised £3,628 for Macmillan Cancer Research. The day got off to a comical start, with Sgt Sila asking about another team‘s “new issue” rifles, which were actually SLRs! However not long after we set off we realised that this was going to be harder than initially thought, with blisters and hotspots making an unwelcome early appearance for some members of the team. The infamous Falklands weather was not doing us any favours either, going through all 4 seasons within a matter of hours. Most of the team could cope with this; however, Cpl McClarence could be heard across the hills whinging about every season! After a long slog the team completed the first day (of 3) and set up camp in a sheep shearer’s shed to tend to some sore feet and get some much needed sleep.

The next morning the teams began preparing for day 2, the longest of the 3 days, covering 29 miles. Our legs were stiff and we were starting to get worried, but when we looked around at other teams our spirits were lifted: it appeared by the way they were walking that instead of getting some sleep they had been riding around on horseback all night! With the smell of Deep Heat drifting across the Falklands we stepped off. Morale remained surprisingly high with the help of some good quality Every Man, Every Mile!” - ISS SAI JCUFI CONDOR YOMP Team chunders. LCpl Smith tried to boost our morale with a little 2010

JOINT SERVICE SIGNAL UNIT (CYPRUS)

CO Lt Col Dooley Club. After months of deciding how the bar was to be run and all RSM WO1 (RSM) Walledge the other administration needed, we finally got there.

JSSU (CYP) CORPORAL’S CLUB OPENS The volunteer members of the committee are Cpl Paul Boyde (RAF) PMC, Cpl Bitu Williams (1 Sqn Rep) LLogs Sally Kennet Earlier in the year the CO Lt Col Dooley gave authority for the (2 Sqn) and Cpl David Heart (HQ Sqn) and most importantly Cpl former football club building to be converted in to a Corporals’ David Lemon as events and Cpl Logan as the bar manager. A

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 79 special thanks goes to FS Adam Sargeant who has helped guide the committee in setting up the bar.

The Corporals Club is now in full swing and doing well. With the purchase of patio furniture and a massive 2.5x4m projector screen on the wall outside, the club has opened it’s doors to all members of the Unit for the duration of the World Cup.

AUCTION OF PROMISES

On 5 June SAFFA held another massively successful event in the form of an Auction of Promises at the recently opened Corporals’ Club. All departments gave generously as did many of the wives and partners. descent. Switchbacks and shear drops, dramatic rock walls The promises ranged from a free years golf club membership, looming skyward and trees that lined the road whooshing by all dog walking, taxi services, babysitting, cheesecakes, tickets to heightened the excitement of the descent. Very soon we were the Unit Cocktail Party and not to mention the option to bid for a pedalling hard on level ground intoxicated by our initial speed. day as the CO or RSM. The MT offered their services by way of Passing through the villages at the foot of the mountain, being a car wash where all the members of the section will wear very expertly flanked by outriders from the Bondo Rats that kept us tight man-kinis. One of the biggest fundraisers of the evening safe, we soon began to feel the heat of the day’s sun. We was the sale of the Unit rugby team’s contribution. The lucky stripped layers off at an impromptu stop and rode onward to the bidders got the chance to decide the layout of the team charity police rendezvous. calendar. Buzzing with the thrill of the mileage we had just churned up we The record individual sale of 120 Euros went to CPO Thomas settled in a peloton formation and made our way on route through (RN), who performed the dance move, the worm much to the Nicosia behind the police escort. Luckily(!), SSgt Fitzmaurice delight of the crowd. The event made an amazing 6500 Euros, was mis-lead by GPS and all riders muttered their appreciation which has been used to help turn the unit’s old church to an for the extra mileage as different points in the city were passed indoor children’s play area which will open next month. A special again and again… At points on the ride the roads were quiet thanks goes to SODEXHO who provided food for the evenings enough to break out from the peloton and allow riders to take BBQ. things at their own sweet pace. A real feel for the countryside was experienced and soon we approached Dhekilia as the SPORTSPERSONS DINNER heavens opened. Pressing on to Ay Nik, the sun’s timely appearance at Vrysoules made the sight of the home-station all The grand opening of the JSSU (Cyprus) Corporals’ Club was the more welcome. We regrouped and rode in smiling as a done with the Annual Sportsperson’s Dinner, to award prizes and peloton to the cheers of family and friends having completed over congratulates the sports men and women of the unit. 160 km.

The Ay Nick sportsperson of the year was awarded to Cpl David Day 2 - Ay Nik to Episkopi. We set off towards Dhekelia and after Lemon with second and third going to Sgt Stanley and Cpl Reg a quick photo shoot we set off again to the rendezvous with the Hollins. There were various awards of sporting colours. In the police escort at Larnaca where we had the first puncture of the Cross Country colours were awarded to CO Lt Col Dooley, WO1 day. There was a mixture of showers and gusts that punctuated Reeves, WO2 Mitchell and Cpl Lemon. Awards were presented the glorious weather as we made our way through Larnaca, to Sgt Di Ward, Mrs Lynn Longmuir and Mrs Jo Hannigan for coastal road and countryside to Limassol. Our first notable climb netball, Sgt Si Gray for golf and finally Cpl Hollins and Mr Scott was the road to Episkopi, which all riders did as they came Gudge for football. A good night was had by all but not much smiling in to the finish. Over half the distance of the ride had sport happened the day after. This event also gave the Corporals’ been completed with that day’s 140 km. Club its first opportunity to show itself off and create a presence as a club. Day 3 - Episkopi to Polis. The ride started with a descent into happy valley, but what goes down unfortunately doesn’t stay JSSU (CYP) WIN THE ANNUAL SWIMMING GALA

The annual swimming gala was held Mid-May at the JSSU (Cyp) swimming pool. Most the Sovereign Base Areas garrisons managed to field a team with the exception of Episkopi Garrison. There were a variety of different events ranging from the 50m free style to 100m backstroke, culminating in the blue ribbon event of the 400m medley. JSSU (Cyp) came first thanks to sterling performances from Cpl Giles and Cpl Lemon who scooped many of points for the unit. RAF Akotiri came second with Dhekelia coming third.

CYPRUS CYCLE CHALLENGE - by Flt Lt Steve Joseph

The Cyprus Cycle Challenge was the event of the year for the Ay Nik Cycle Club. It was a breath-taking ride in every sense of the phrase that took in over 500 km in just 4 days. The total ascent was in excess of 5000m and the scenery was truly something to behold. However, none of it would be achievable without the volunteer support team to whom I owe a massive thanks.

Day one of the Challenge, on what felt like the chill of a spring morning, saw the riders exceed speeds of 80km/h on the Troodos

80 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 down. Further climbs led to fast descents where speeds of 80 Minutes turned to hours and still we climbed. The gorgeous km/h were breached. Slowing as the roads levelled out to then weather meant that as we climbed we were warm and didn’t have gently round a corner to the breath-takingly beautiful scenery to put layers on. A couple of times the mountain road levelled around Aphrodite’s Rock. A gorgeous windless day had everyone out and even plunged down causing me to grimace at the lost of in high spirits as we cycled to Paphos for a lunch stop. The meat height that I had fought for. As the speed picked up I weaved in of the day was yet to come. Droushia Heights was probably the and out avoiding random rocks that had fallen earlier. The most aggressive climb the novices had every seen; however, Kykkos Monastery went by and the road dipped off and really switch back after, steep slope, after gear change into granny gear plunged downward. all the riders conquered the climb one after the other. Then a superbly smooth coast down hill, saw us all to the hotel where Eventually, in the distance a massive white cross that signified the massages, cool drinks and hot food awaited. very last climb came into view. A mental check of the body showed no injury and a reserve of energy that would surely be Day 4 - Polis toTroodos. My bike took one look and fell apart. To enough to get me to the top. Debs rode next to me with a jeers from the high spirited riders I swapped my trusted steed for positive spring in her spin. The air started to thin then the a club bike. We rode together for about 25 km until we reached mountain got mean. Out the seat and pumping for all I was the foot of the mountain. With a quick tune up for bike and rider worth, the bike inched ever forward. My thighs ached, my hands we set off. I can only speak for myself as I was at the back all hurt and the road seemed to get steeper. Hours had passed by the way and last man in. I looked up at the mountain and the and I had no reserves of energy left. Debs gave encouragement size of the task hit me. The aggressive initial climb had me out of all the way. The only thing that made the bike go forward was the seat pushing hard on the pedals as I inched up the hill. For will power. Then… it was over, the road levelled out and my company I had my Ipod, Mrs Debs Evan and the most beautiful speed picked up…dramatically. I rode up the camp and climbed scenery yet to come. As I got used to the bike, the hill levelled the hill to the Combined Mess. All the riders and family came out a bit and I sat down and started to spin myself up the hill. into view and I broke into the biggest smile of my life. So I guess I can tell you from personal experience what victory feels like. It I chatted; I looked around and span. The climb seemed to go on can’t be expressed fully but saying, “one of the best feelings forever but at times the sights simply left me speechless. ever” goes some way to indicating the right direction.

DE&S - CYPRUS COMMUNICATIONS UNIT

OC Maj M McCorry Garrison gymnasium, to RAF Akrotiri gymnasium with a USM WO2 N Elliot respectable time of 2 hours.

AKROTIRI SECTION - by Sig Peters DHEKELIA SECTION - by Sig Goodluck

The Section would like to say goodbye to the following people: Morale in CCU Dhekelia has been at an all time high recently as Sig Peters who is leaving us at the end of May and SSgt (FofS) members of the section have kept themselves occupied with Dryden who is leaving us in June posted to 7 Sig Regt, Germany. various tasks and activities, ranging from fine tuning their military We wish them and their families all the best for the future. skills, learning and improving their skills in AT courses and The Section has been busy finishing off Project Welchman which progressing in their Army careers by taking on new roles that will involved laying over 30 km of fibre optic cable around RAF broaden their horizons in future. Akrotiri. We will all be glad when that is finished. The work is slowly dwindling as BTes take over and everyone is posted out, Firstly, I would like to congratulate SSgt Fisher on completing his however there is still enough to keep us ticking over. WO CLM course at Blandford recently in preparation for his new position at his next posting. SSgt Fisher’s learning capabilities At the time of writing SSgt King MBE is currently on an Explosive will be tested in learning Arabic which will prove useful to him and Safety Officer course which is being run in Cyprus for the first others at his next posting in Oman. I believe in no time at all he time. I personally wouldn’t let him near any explosive devices. will be able to teach the section this new language he is Sgt Simpson is also on a course just now, the slightly less acquiring. impressive DIT Trainer course, treat yourself Dino. We will let everyone know how they got on in the next entry. Sgt Poole has returned from his flying grading and selection course and has impressed us all on passing the selection board. Sig Alex Hopkins recently arranged a day clay pigeon shooting He is now able to carry out over 180 flight preparation and for Epi & Aki Section with Mexican themed refreshments and control checks and confident enough to fly and land a Grob tutor drinks in the evening. A good day shooting all round, though aircraft safely. Well done to him on his brilliant efforts and will shouts of fix were called when the organiser came out victorious. now progress on to Helicopter flight training. None the less a good day and night was had by all and we would like to thank him for his efforts. Amongst the inspiring characters in the section, Cpl Dave Keen has successfully completed his MAPRIC course and through We would like to congratulate, SSgt King MBE and LCpl Hardy, sheer perseverance he went through the unfortunate event of who have recently completed their Endurance Training Leader popping his stitches from his recent vasectomy. Cpl Keen has (ETL) course, and now regularly take the section for runs as part put his new instructor skills to use by getting members of the of our PT section up to date on their map reading skills.

The section is not all about work and courses. SSgt King MBE, Sig Loney and Downey have been busy; both are currently SSgt (FofS) Dryden, LCpls Reeve and Hardy and Sigs Hall and undergoing training for the CypSAAM competition this year as Hopkins take part in Akrotiri’s Bowling League every week, and part of the CCU team. Sig Loney recently took part in the at present sit in the middle of the table. Lets all hope they can do parachuting section of the UGAT course, and had spent most of better than last year’s team who finished second to bottom. SSgt his time mastering the reserve drills part of the course more than (FofS) Dryden, Sigs Lollis, Hall, Peters and Hopkins have all anything. He has now attempted and successfully completed his regularly been taking part in the Cyprus orienteering league when first static line jump from an altitude of 3500ft and cannot wait to work permits. Finally, Sig Hopkins recently took part in the Gate do it again. Through sheer devotion to the sport, Sig Downey to Gate challenge, which is actually Gym to Gym, from Episkopi has been selected to play for the Army football team (Cyprus) and

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 81 played well in his first game against the RAF. Commiserations go months ago. With warm welcomes, it was no surprise to us all to him and the team for the 4-0 score line. that his “competitive dad” attitude could still be observed during the fun and games activities at the bar. An escape and evasion exercise organised by Cyprus Military Working Dogs Support Unit (CMWDSU) held around the Episkopi EPISKOPI SECTION - by LCpl Buley district. There were 15 teams from across the island with 9 dog teams hunting them all down. Cpl Watson, Sig Loney and Sig As always when speaking about the Cyprus workstations Downey from Dhekelia section teamed up and quite impressively Welshmen is still an ongoing subject but the end is now in sight only got captured four times while they tried to make it to their since the arrival of Bailey Teswain, or as Sig ‘Billy’ Elliott said final destination undetected (20-25km depending on route taken). “Bill and Teds way”. Most everyday work has been taken off our Cpl Watson has now embarked on his detachment to BATUS hands so all that is left is survey work and the finalising of the Canada and will take on the role of acting Sgt while working camps ready for us to jet off next year. abroad. The past few months have been filled with sorrow and joy as we Farewell to Sig Phillips as he has now left the Army and is have had to say goodbye to SSgt Ian Farrow as he leaves to adapting to civilian life. As one of the loud characters in the become a member of CPO travelling via Brunei and LCpl Dave troop, his presence has not gone un-noticed and will be missed. Hamilton also travelling to Corsham via Afghan. We would also Sig Phillips’ leaving function was tied in with the Bitsa bar like to say goodbye to the Techs in our section first by closing event, where he said his farewells and had his last cup of congratulating SSgt (FofS) Dave Wood on his promotion to WO2 friendship. That night the Bitsa bar had a wide range of guests and we have said goodbye to Sgt Graham Le May as we lose present from the section and other supporting units on the him to 22 Sig Regt. He will be missed although it has been garrison, with a wide range or events going on. A surprise visit noticed when people have taken on his work and duties, they was paid by Sgt Sankey who was posted out of CCU a few have ended up with less to do!

ENGINEERING OPERATIONS INSTALLATION SERVICES TEAM

OC Maj A O H Biggs MEDALS PARADE - by SAC (T) Shuker Tp SSgt SSgt A D’OR On Monday 22 March 2010 12 members of IST were the With the first quarter of the year completed and the Christmas recipients of the OSM Afghanistan with clasp meda. This was for mince pies finally burnt off IST have yet another busy time ahead work done on the relocation and installation of the 904 of them. I would Like to take this opportunity to give Sgt Andy Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW) HQ at Kandahar Airfield. The Stewart, Cpl Michael Johnson, LCpl Dan Matthews, SAC medals were presented by Air Cdre TLJ Bishop OBE with Gp Matthew Waters and SAC Luke McDevitt a warm welcome and Capt ME Bunting (Dep Hd Eng Ops) in attendance. These a big congratulations to Sgt Stewart and his wife Kristy on there recipients were part of a larger team from IST that work within new born baby boy James and Sgt William Downey and his DE&S located at RAF Henlow which includes both Royal Signals wife Tracey with their baby boy Joshua. Also congratulations to Installation Technicians and RAF personnel with varied levels of Sgt Andy Bradley, SAC Ben Gray and SAC Steve Bullock on knowledge and experience, some of which have been serving their promotions. Also the team say goodbye to Sgt Danny less than 18 months. The 18 strong team deployed to carry out Hogg who has left sunny Henlow for beautiful Milton Keynes on the relocation of the new 904 EAW at Kandahar airfield. posting to 299 Sig Sqn and to Cpl Ian Pearce and his wife and two boys as they disappear off to sunnier climes to Gibraltar.

PJHQ NORTHWOOD - by SAC(T) Grout

With ever increasing demand from the MOD to improve service as well as save money, a team from IST at RAF Henlow were tasked to help in the migration of equipment from the old PJHQ building at Northwood to the new multi-million pound state of the art build. Although the skill set was offset for the guys involved, there was no task too challenging and the more relaxed job was a welcome break for guys that deploy on average 7 months every year. Personnel range from new RAF SAC’s to the older and bolder Army and RAF Sgts with just as much of a range of experience to match. The task was a big change from what the guys are use to, with most of the tasking in the less appealing climates of Afghanistan along with other hot sandy areas of the Middle East.

The usual work carried out by IST is network infrastructure and the passive side of networking, whether it is on a small add-on to a building for a week or a major refit for 3 months. The work Installation Team medals parade carried out at PJHQ was not only vital to the migration of the users to keep the systems running and working for guys on the ground but also saved the MOD over £600,000 in civilian The brand new build was still in its construction phase when the contractors, which in this current climate is a notable sum of team deployed and carried out the major network infrastructure money and money saved could now be relocated to help guys on that amounted to around about 4000 fibre terminations, 2000 the ground. copper terminations and hundreds of kilometres of cable being installed. PJHQ is now one of the most impressive building and working environments within the MOD and not only will this improve the This fit not only gave 904 EAW a new platform to work with all the image of the MOD to other countries but also aid the most sections who make up 904 integrated rather than spread across important point of all, to speed up decisive military action. the airfield but also made the fast air jet capability more readily

82 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 available for the guys needing it on the front line. When the team on carbohydrates was set to. It can definitely be said however had completed there task and were just over a week away from that some members of the team took on more carbs than going home they were re-tasked for a in-theatre effort to improve others… a number of locations at Camp Bastion. This included an improvement of services to the emergency field hospital just in Day 2 started early with Sgt Si Johns and his admin crew sorting time for current operations, a new HQ for the Royal Welsh and out the teams with food ready to begin the challenge ahead. The improvement for the Engineers. This work was vital to the up 2 teams were transported to the base of Snowdon and started keep and improved the support for front line troops who are on the ascent at around 09:00. The first team set off like a rocket, the sharp end of current operations. whilst the other team with the older members were pacing themselves, using the ‘hare and tortoise’ method. The weather POOLE TASKING - by SAC Leach was holding for the most part but as the teams neared the summit the cloud cover provided poor visibility and strong winds. IST received a manning request for a team of 4 to complete an As Team 2 were about 100m from the summit they were passed installations task at Rockley Park, Poole. Upon receiving that by Team 1 who were already on the way down. Team 2 request the team of 4, Sgt Bradley, Cpl Day, SAC (T) eventually reached the summit at about 10:30 and after a quick Mathershaw and myself set about obtaining the necessary tools photo and a chocolate bar they started their descent. needed for the job and traveled down to Poole for what would be a seven week task of installing cable infrastructure to a newly On the way down Team 2 had a couple of falls with SAC Tim refurbished building. As this task was a fresh fit this required Shuker taking a tumble on some slippery rocks and Sgt John containment being put up throughout the building along the cable Crutchley stumbling whilst checking out the “scenery” provided route: trunking is normally a straight forward task however due to by a young blond lady. Eventually the Pen-y-pass carpark was the building having wonky walls, pipes everywhere and the floor reached and the support crew were there waiting with food and and ceiling tiles not being level this made the task more enjoyable warm brews for the long bus journey across to Scafel Pyke. and interesting to say the least. This also involved the installation Team 1 now with a 40min lead on Team 2 but as they had a of outlets for user capability both copper and fibre: however minibus with a limit of 62mph both teams arrived within 10 another task that is usually straight forward involved us punching minutes of each other. holes through various wall divides, the task also involved the installation of cabs for termination of the copper and fibre outlets Once the teams had checked their kit and supplies they headed which also would allow for patching at a later date. off with team 1 racing ahead again. About midway up team 2 lost one of their team members, SAC Tim Shuker, still suffering Other jobs within the tasking consisted of pulling backbone from his earlier tumble. At least this is what he said, however cables between other buildings to amalgamate the new most of the others agreed that ‘Tim was simply not man enough installation to the already installed infrastructure at Rockley Park. to carry on’. Team 2 carried on towards the summit with the Outside of work hours we were all able to enjoy the luxury weather closing in, but Team 1 hit the summit with poor visibility, Premier Inn and become very well fed with the attached however by the time Team 2 reached it the weather had cleared. restaurant. After a few weeks at the same restaurant we decided By this time Team 1 were well on the way back down. Again they to move for a all you can eat, which by this point Neil was reached the base of the hill and took on body fuel, before achieving with ease. heading off on the long journey to Ben Nevis. At this point Team 2 were almost an hour behind, but both teams were now starting 3 PEAKS CHALLENGE - by SAC Tim Shuker to feel the pace.

Teams 1 and 2 arrived at Ben Nevis together due to the slow wagon, much to the dismay of the ‘Hares’. But now deep into the night with typical bad weather for the area, both teams set off together straight away with water proofs and head torches donned. Keeping the 2 teams relatively close together they headed towards the final summit, but with morale getting low they slowly soldiered on. Unfortunately due to the adverse conditions at around 300m from the summit the teams had to call it quits primarily due to the snow and ice impeding the way. Feeling a bit disheartened the 2 teams headed back down to the wagons. By this time it was daybreak and the teams took on some food, loaded up the wagons and prepared for the long (incredibly exciting) journey back to Henlow.

CLIMBING CHAMPIONSHIP - by SAC Neil Mathershaw On 26 April 2010 two teams of relatively willing volunteers from IST met at work ready to start on the three peaks challenge. The AMA climbing championships were held at Boulders climbing Soon after they were joined by the expedition organiser who had centre, Cardiff. The competition stretched over 2 days, 20 – 21 decided on balance to have a lie-in. With SAC Neil Mathershaw May 2010. finally there to ensure the smooth running of the expedition everyone was ready to go. The competition started on Thursday morning with everyone well prepared and eager to get underway. The beginning was straight Eventually departing Henlow at 0830 and heading for Snowdon a forward involving 6 climbs, with a short break in between, each scheduled pit-stop was made courtesy of RAF Cosford for lunch. getting progressively harder. Each individual would attempt all 6 After this, the rest of the long journey was started with each of climbs and then be graded and put into one of 3 categories, Elite, the three vehicles knowing the “best” route to get there however Open and Novice. However due to the necessity of the 103 Cpl Johnson with the aid of a sat-nav was last to reach the competitors needing to attempt the climbs and be graded the destination. rest of the day was set. The scoring system for the climbs was based on how far you climbed. The higher the hold that was The group arrived at the campsite at about 15:30, which is touched, the higher your score, with a maximum of 100 points located about 20 minutes drive from the base of Snowdon. per climb. Everyone started the inevitable fight over who they would share a tent with before setting up camp. Due to Neil’s fine organisation After these grading climbs the results for the 3 representatives the campsite was located conveniently next to a pub and so from IST, Henlow stood with: Sgt Andy Stewart, Position 18th without further fuss and after a little admin, the hard job of taking Elite league, SAC Ben Gray, Position 24th, Open league and

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 83 bringing up the rear was myself, SAC Neil Mathershaw, Position definitely the hottest day ever recorded in Inverness (20C) our aim 99th, Novice league. Considering that prior to the event I had became somewhat out of reach. Twelve miles into the event the only 5 hours of climbing experience under my belt, I was pain became obvious in our feet and each mile saw a slowing in considerably pleased with the fact that I was able to beat 4 other pace. chumps….. I mean competitors. After 15 miles the team started to drive for the finish together and Moving on to day 2 of the competition with the new groups the final push was completed as a “smart as a carrot” team effort formed, each group was allocated one climb route each. and completing it in a respectable time, a good all round solid Obviously the grade of the climb was dependant on the climbing effort. groups’ abilities. For myself way back at the bottom end of the novice league, looking at the elite leagues qualifying climb I was overwhelmed. This made me a lot happier when confronted with the climb that I would be attempting in my category. After everyone had completed, or at least attempted their respective climbs there was an anxious wait to see who had made it through to the finals. The finals were made up of the top 8 climbers from each category except for the novice league which was decided from the Friday morning climb. Therefore my position was 26th out of 40 which it is safe to say I was made up with. Unfortunately for Andy and Ben they did not quite make it to the finals of their respective groups. Andy finished 15th out of the 20 elite climbers, whilst Ben finished 10th out of the 20 open climbers, just missing out on the finals by 6 seconds.

When it came to the presentation at the end we were awarded IST Team SAC Mark Sloane, Cpl ‘Doris’ Day, SAC ‘Nigel’ Mansell the plastic spork, as apposed to the more popular wooden spoon and Maj Alistair Biggs for coming third in the speed climb and to each of our surprise LEONARD CHESHIRE CARE HOME - by SAC Matt Waters we managed an awesome 2nd place for overall team and were awarded a plaque for our trouble. So over all I consider my Finally our boss Maj Biggs saw an opportunity after a couple of introduction to climbing to be a success and I was more than jobs were cancelled to help out the local community, in the form pleased with the outcome. of a bit of painting at the local Leonard Cheshire home. This is a care home for physically disabled individuals of all ages, GLENCALVIE CHALLENGE - by Cpl Day providing 24 hour care, and as there building had become a little worn around the edges this gave us an opportunity to help out. On Saturday 22 May 2010, 4 intrepid members of IST completed a 17.5 mile tab with body armour, webbing and bergen, weighing We were greeted warmly by the staff who showed us around the 40lb to raising money for ‘Help for Heroes’ aided and abetted by home, explaining their role as well as the work to be carried out. 3 admin members from the team. This involved the removal of old wood stain and varnish and replacing it with new stain. The work was not exactly challenging The Challenge was completed by an assortment of walkers, however we still took a casualty on the first day where Cpl runners, cyclists and dogs with a total of £5,000 raised for charity, ‘Doris’ Day was victim of a horrific splinter related accident. His of this £400 was by members of IST standing outside the cook- thumb a little red and swollen was deemed to not quite be house and accosting members of the civil service around Henlow; serious enough for A&E so this was fixed in house. a large amount of this came from special efforts made by SAC ‘Nigel’ Mansell. On the second day we were visited by a member of the press taking photos for one of the local newspapers, which was a The event was a typical early start with a slight headache being welcome break from painting. provided kindly by the people at ‘Weatherspoons’ from the preparation period the day before the event. We were then I think I speak for the section when I say that it was a really good transported to the start line which was somewhere near Inverness opportunity to carry out some work away from the work – do not ask me where… and the event begun. environment as well as being in the great outdoors.

Our team was going to complete this as a steady tab but then the Many thanks to the staff and residents of the care home for their military sprit began to run though our veins and the idea of warm welcome and amazing hospitality, the lunches we received winning suddenly became our main aim. However due to while completing the work were extremely well received.

BRITISH ARMY TRAINING UNIT KENYA

Comd Col Hutton CBE Late Para which will be familiar to anybody who has ever been part of a I/C CIS Sect WO2 (YofS) Bri Rawlings Grand Prix exercise.

Leaving the 2 foot of snow behind in Herford, I set off for sunny CIS section is likewise split into two parts, CIS Main at Kifaru Kenya towards the end of February, without a massive idea of Camp where the bulk of the CIS workload happens and CIS Fwd what I would be doing when I got there! Arriving at Jomo at NSG, which is mostly concerned with supporting the various Kenyatta Airport at 0600 after an overnight flight from Heathrow exercises that take place in Kenya throughout the year. to be met by one of the Locally Employed Civilians (LEC) and a two and a half hour drive through the Nairobi rush hour to British The section is headed up by WO2 (YofS) Bri Rawlings, who also Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK). doubles up as I/C section, OpsO, Tffc Offr, and head cook and bottle washer! Ably supporting him are normally 7 or 8 other BATUK is situated on two sites, BATUK Rear on Kifaru Camp, members, although, this can increase up to 12 during personnel which is part of the Kahawa Bks complex of the Kenyan Army, changeovers. We are all undertaking attachments and postings and BATUK Main, up country at Nanyuki Show Ground (NSG), of different lengths from 6 weeks (for myself), through to 6

84 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 months for most of us, and 2 years permanent posting for the wildlife following the Comd in a bundle of sweat at warp nine, lucky few! and also in search of elusive elephants!

The first day was taken up by the usual arrival briefs and guided We deployed to NSG at 0700 on a lazy Sunday morning, delayed tours around camp and getting the lay of the land. From the only by our Sig Storeman/Ex CQMS LCPL Stevie Lyle initial info we received the workload sounded daunting and after a (5 SCOTS) having developed a savage case of “Sticky Backitis” Bri Rawlings special brief we finally knocked off in preparation of brought on by excessive exposure to Black Diamonds bar in a full days work. Nairobi! Arriving in NSG mid afternoon the YofS showed off his Motorola expertise to the HICON staff whilst the rest off us BATUK holds approx 80 Bowman vehicles, ranging from clip in prepped the kit for issue to the staff and certain members of 1 HF dets, to full Complex fits, and every shade in between, all in IRISH GUARDS BG. various states of readiness and repair. With only normally one operator, LCPL ‘Scouse’ Wilkes (1 UK ADSR), and one The Monday saw us move to the HICON location and myself and technician, LCPL Dave Heminsley (7 Sig Regt) from the Corps James Ndungu move to our first RRB site. This was high up at and an Infantry Signaller in the shape of CPL Broadway (1 the southern end of the mountains with spectacular views of Mt PWRR), between the vehicles the workload can be immense, Kenya, the second largest mountain in Africa, and across the especially in the build up to the first of the Grand Prix exercises. Central Province to the Aberdare Range, but more close in, and of more immediate concern was ample ground sign of numerous With no second line support in theatre and a constant stream of forms of wildlife, providing a free safari while we were working! vehicles coming in and out of the gate you need to be on top of Everything went swimmingly with our comms booming in to all your Bowman game! Although before coming to Kenya I stations and our razor wire provided for protection from considered myself to be more than competent on Bowman, Dave dangerous wildlife and wondering Yeomen, until just after and I have both received a graduate level education on midnight on the second night when two sets of eyes were maintaining and repairing the equipment, with the lines spotted approaching! Queue, my surprise when on hitting the sometimes becoming blurred between what trade was doing lights on the Landrover I saw a lion 20 meters from the det what! Repairs vary from relatively simple such as changing u/s approaching us! Suddenly the single strand of razor wire cables to fully fitting and wiring out complex fit vehicles without surrounding the site did not seem so formidable! With me hissing the benefit of schematics or parts lists! Another more unfortunate at James “get out of bed sharpish! There’s a bloody lion outside duty involves stripping out RTA damaged vehicles. Fortunately, the wire!” And with a spade in hand and suddenly dodgy whilst several FFRs have been written off in RTAs during my time underwear I watched as it approached to about 10 foot away and here, there have been no serious injuries. However it can be very stood there staring at us trembling. Fortunately for us it lost down heartening when an FFR into which you have invested interest and went in search of easier pickings! several days hard work bringing back to full readiness is towed back to the vehicle park only a few days later with half the back A few days later we moved again, following the BG across to the end missing from it! western side area. Our new location provided grandstand views of the BG going through the training serials and the abundant The CIS sect is working at the moment on an approximate 6 wildlife with the exception of elephants! This was until the day week cycle, concurrent with the Grand Prix exercises. Four before the final attack when RRB2 was stood up to provide weeks are spent at Kifaru repairing and maintaining the FFRs and comms for the final attack at the north end of the area and we then during the FTX phase of Grand Prix CIS Sect moves en were drawn back to HICON to turn around in preparation for a masse up to NSG. The sect only provides comms for the further deployment, which in the event wasn’t needed. Although directing staff at HICON during the FTX phase with two Motorola the ethos at BATUK is work hard, the emphasis is also on making RRBs used to cover gaps in the coverage radius, as well as a the most of your free time, be it a day trip to Nairobi, AT signaller on the ground working for Comd BATUK. Normally the expeditions to the top of Mt Kenya, or safari’s in one of Kenya’s FTXs take place at Archer’s Post Training Area, however due to National Parks (NPs). I have been lucky enough to go camping in the recent severe flooding the latest FTX was run in the Lolldaiga Hells Gate NP, as well as several trips into Nairobi. Mountains and the adjacent Ole Naishu Training Areas, which, to be honest was a nice touch. The RRBs have one operator and By the time these notes are published I will have made the trip one LEC, manned by me and James Ndungu on RRB 1, and Cpl back to Germany and the loving embrace of 1 UK ADSR and Ex Broadway and Vincent Ndolia, on the second RRB. The Comd Flying Rhino, and been replaced by LCPL Dan Kelk, and I will be BATUKs operator was provided by LCpl Heminsley who, despite looking back with fondness at my time in Kenya. If you ever get being a Sys Eng Tech with a worrying habit of saying “Wilco” the chance to answer a trawl to BATUK it is hard work, but to use during VP training came through with the goods on the FTX, the old cliché ‘you get out what you put in’. It is a very having the time of his life tabbing through the bush dodging the worthwhile deployment. ADVENTURE TRAINING

DENBURY BOYS TEN TORS CHALLENGE

DENBURY BOYS TAKE ON THE TEN TORS CHALLENGE FOR BACKGROUND THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY- by Maj (Retd) Bob Etherton The Ten Tors Challenge was born out of an idea by the then A team of 10 ex-Denbury, Royal Signals Junior Leaders (1960) CO of the Junior Regiment Royal Signals, Lt Col Lionel participated in the 50th Anniversary of the Ten Tors Challenge Gregory MBE, and the Adventure Training Officer, Maj Joyner. across Dartmoor over the weekend of 8 – 9 May 2010. The event’s success as a military venture took off and subsequent years included civilian youth teams. It has survived Now in their ‘sixties’ the team had variously done the Ten Tors as and today is a celebrated, annual event with 400 teams of 6 Junior Leaders in the 1960s, with 3 members having participated youngsters (14 – 20 years), walking 35, 45 or 55 miles across in the first one. Dartmoor.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 85 The ‘Challenge’ is the rough terrain, physical endurance, personal Our team pennant, flying about one foot above Bob Wathen’s ‘admin’, navigation, teamwork and, of course, the weather! head marked our place in this remarkable occasion. Readers will be aware how the weather can influence conditions on Dartmoor. It can become the deciding factor between At 0851hrs we arrived at number one, Hound Tor. An enthusiastic success and failure. For the 50th event, the forecast was welcome greeted the team with applause and encouragement overcast, showers and fairly cool for day one, improving for day from the DS. We had been dubbed ‘The Originals’ and as we two. progressed, we found our welcoming at the checkpoints always warm and congratulatory. A short break for a quick brew and The impetus of entering a team was born out of the nucleus of bite, then a warning shout: ‘2 minutes’, from our ‘roustabout’, Denbury Boys who had taken part in the 2005 Ten Tors to Phil Castle, and we’re on schedule for Sittaford Tor, number two. celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the formation of the Junior Leaders Regiment, Royal Signals. It seemed only fitting that the STEADY AWAY – NAVIGATION AND TEAMWORK ‘guinea pigs’ for the inaugural event in 1960 and early years, should take part in the Ten Tors 50th event Chris Endean was the man with the needle. His navigation was spot on and although he prepared for the worst, we had good In Jan 2009 the idea was suggested to Maj Nigel Wylie-Carrick, visibility and what adjustments or ambiguities arose, he and the (Secretary Ten Tors at HQ 43 Bde) and his enthusiastic response: No 2 navigator, Frank Herod, sorted it out. The team had great ‘Consider yourselves registered!’ was the spur to put a team confidence in their map and compass skills. En route we passed together. John Topping (Team Manager) and Bob Etherton through Waten Tor and although it was not one of our formulated the ubiquitous ‘aims and objectives’ and by June the checkpoints, the DS insisted on having their photo taken with us. first 7 ‘volunteers’ met in Nidderdale to walk and talk the way We were becoming famous! ahead. By the autumn more ‘Denbury’ boys had taken the customary one pace forward to join the walking team or provide Steady away is perhaps the best term for our progress and we some other valuable support. Super! were amazed at the speed some of the youngsters were making. These would be the 55 milers who would end up by covering We had a volunteer, (the capable Toby Wallis) who set up our some 60 miles and they would need to march for part of the web site (www.denburyboyst3) with our history, Ten Tors night. Super fit they were. (Were we as fast 50 years ago? We background, press releases and details of our sponsorship for doubted that, not with hobnailed boots and the kit we had then!) Help for Heroes and the Royal Signals Benevolent Fund. Maj Gen David McDowall CBE, kindly agreed to be our patron Sittaford Tor. 1050hrs. Another warm greeting and group picture. saying that he was proud to be associated with us and that: ‘his Our leader, Phil Kirk, checks in. We take on some calories and a heart felt best wishes are with us in our endeavours’. (He started drink then the warning call and we’re marching. The next leg to his military career as an Army Apprentice at Harrogate - it was Beardown Tor was probably the longest with the East Dart River the nearest we could get to a Denbury Junior Leader!) Our Royal to cross en route. Some showers presented themselves and the Signals emblem on the website also incorporated the Denbury wind was cold but we had good kit and clothing and Ken Kay’s theme: ‘Leadership in the Cause of Peace’, Good stuff! tales and jokes ate into the miles. A similar routine at Beardown and we were on schedule – 1257hrs. Only 5 km to number 4, TRAINING Great Mis Tor and the navigators used a fence as a hand-rail for some of the route. We walked with a mixed male/female Army The team’s geographical spread was wide: Dumfries and Cadet Force group from North Devon for part of the way and it Galloway, Lancashire, North Yorkshire, Sussex, Hampshire and on was good to enjoy their company and good humour whilst the edge of Dartmoor itself. Fitness training was mostly negotiating the boggy ground, trying to keep our feet dry. undertaken individually or in small groups locally. Four of the team had participated in the 2005 Challenge and their experience For the 2005 event, Great Mis Tor was the scene of a cold, wet, provided valuable lessons. Fitness, kit and equipment, teamwork windy and rather miserable night, well remembered by 4 of the and navigation became priorities. team. This time we fetched up to the good cheer of WO1 (SMI) Alan Walker SASC (Deputy Commandant DTA), who was most A slow build-up for ‘yomping’ fitness was the right approach for impressed by our efforts and interested in our experiences of Ten the ‘age group’, increasing pack weight and distance over time. Tors in the early years, as he was very much immersed in the The team met for some ‘hill work’ in the Peak District in March running of the 50th event. (He has put together a small stand of and then in early April, a dress-rehearsal was undertaken on its history in the conference room at Okehampton Camp, which Dartmoor, over a projected 39 mile similar route, to ‘test and includes details and a picture of our team) Another photo adjust’ – so to speak. This was felt necessary as increasing opportunity, an encouraging wave and we set off (1440) on a bit military interest (Brig Hodder, Cmdr 43 Bde. Director Ten Tors) of a dogleg to South Hessary Tor, the other side of Princetown. and wider media attention, including Channel 3 Countrywise, meant that failure was not an option! Many teams train over Dartmoor leading up to the event.

A word on kit and safety. Team managers have to declare their team’s suitability and fitness. All teams have their individual clothing and equipment inspected by one of the event’s invigilators. Our inspector, the lovely Samantha, was not put off by any old soldier’s repartee or chat-up, and insisted on seeing all items on the checklist – and more! We passed.

THE OFF!

Some 2400 young people plus well-wishers and sightseers seemed to carpet the fields south of Okehampton Camp just before 0700 on the Saturday. A fairly important person said some fine words; the Padre said the Ten Tors prayer (which was chopped up a bit by two Sea Kings on an unsynchronised flypast), a 105mm Light Gun shouted ‘bang’ – and we were off! Swarms of youngsters, some even running headlong over the moor towards their first checkpoint, was quite a sight; and we were there too, us oldies, enjoying the excitement of the moment. The team at Great Mis Tor

86 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 A word about teamwork. For the last few hours our leader, Phil maintain our schedule as we intended to be at the finish Kirk had been suffering having pulled a leg injury in a fight with a by1330hrs. rather large ‘tuft’. Some pain killing sweets, advice on the best use of walking poles, spreading his load among others in the Another Royal Signals cap badge and a very warm welcome at team and some good ‘military encouragement’ provided the extra Stourton; this time in the form of a Sergeant Major and his DS impetus for him to dig deep and keep going. Bernie Temmen, team. Some of our admin party were also there to greet us, so our team ‘sweep’ along with the front men, made sure that we there were plenty of ‘well done lads’, ‘keep goings’ kept a fairly tight marching group, which is important for morale ‘congratulations’ and encouragement and digital pictures taken. and progress. It was 1125hrs with still a good 6+ km and a fairly stiff climb to WELL BEGUN – IS HALF DONE go. Hoisting our packs on and a cheery farewell to Stourton, we knew that it was all over bar the shouting. Our navigators had Up and over the hill that supports the massive North Hessary chosen the ‘scenic’ route around the reservoir and we were to RV communications tower, and we drop down into Princetown. From with the admin party at Black Down, about 1 km short of the line. the top and to the left we can see the prison. It appeared rather less austere than what Denbury Camp did half a century ago! Our team seemed to be the only one on this route and the trees After the moor, Princetown was quite the metropolis and as we and the blossom provided colourful, pleasant surroundings after passed the pub en route, a band of ‘supporters’ decamped from the bleakness of the moor. We girded our loins for the stiff ‘push the public bar to cheer and applaud us as we passed by - with and puff’ up to spot height 376 (well done Harry Waugh. That’ll our tongues hanging out! be the last brown line on the map to cross then!). At the RV we exchanged our various headwear for the ‘official team hats’, The path to South Hessary (number 5) was a crowded formed up in file, and with the admin team hoisting the Junior thoroughfare with teams tooing and frowing. General McDowall Leaders Regiment banner, we marched towards the finish. was at the Tor to greet us together with some family members and friends of the team. We would have liked to linger longer but FINISH – PIPES – CAKE – MEDALS AND A SURPRISE we still had distance to cover before checkpoint 6 and the overnight camp. The General and accompanied host walked None of us was quite prepared for such an enthusiastic welcome. back to Princetown with us then we took off in a reverse direction It seemed as if a crowd of thousands were cheering us as we and up and over again to our water top-up stop – a stream just approached the line. Of course, most were there for the 400 west of Hollow Tor. other teams but we were certainly showered with their generous, wholehearted applause and appreciation. It was quite; ‘lump in A bit of a trudge along the B3357 to Merrivile Bridge and past the throat stuff’, and even the sun came out! It was1328 hrs. another public house (all we could have was Adam’s ale!) and a group of civilian Ten Tors invigilators, who cheered us on – “You’ll Our supporters, friends and family, a TV crew and a newspaper sleep well tonight”, was one comment - before a 160m climb and reporter ambushed us and the scene took the form of a the last km to Middle Staple Tor. Here, the DS were insistent on celebratory gathering of Denbury ‘buffs’ and associates. We checking our numbered wristbands against our names on the certainly felt very pleased about our endeavours and it was a team log sheet. - did he suspect that we might have substituted a happy and shared experience. Our log /route card was stamped cardboard replica for a team member en route? We were all (Okehampton Camp GR 588926 FINISH) and a rather nice young present and correct and Squadron Leader Doubting Thomas lady appeared with a 50th anniversary cake - specially baked for waved us on our way, which was just a15 minute walk and our the team! We were being spoilt! camp for the night at Roos Tor. Gen McDowall joined us, this time with his bagpipes and 1903 hrs. We had been12 hours on the march and put nearly two dressed in Highland attire and piped the team into the thirds of the route under our boots that day. So far all was going presentation arena where we were presented with our Ten Tors, according to plan and by the next hour most of the team were 50th Anniversary Medals. tucked away in their tents and sleeping bags. The wind shifted easterly and blew cold and hard and the rattle of the tents made Another surprise and to our amazement and loud cheers, Maj for a rather noisy night. Rick Levett said that he did not sleep at Joyner’s daughter joined us on the podium. Unbeknown to us, all – just experienced a short course of death! she had been contacted by the event’s organisers and asked to be present to mark 50 years and as a connection and DAY TWO representative of one of Ten Tors’ Founders.

Reveille at Dark O’clock, and PUFO, we’re marching again at The 50th anniversary of Ten Tors was a magnificent occasion and 0600hrs heading for number 7, Lynch Tor, 4.5 km as the crow it went off in fine style indeed, and not least because of the first flies. It was too, with just a little deviation about half way by a class administration and support provided by the Armed Forces. stone circle and a duty Druid. For most of us, breakfast was a bit May they continue to be involved, as it is a perfect example for of a rushed affair so we’re stocking up on calories before heading the young people taking part of what the military is all about and off into some pretty ‘moist’ terrain; the crossing of Amicombe what it does so well. What also impressed the team was the Brook, - (where Ken Kay took a late morning foot bath!) - then enthusiasm, determination, cheerfulness and politeness of the across to Deadlake Foot (more wet feet for some!) and a stiff young people participating. It is a real boost to the spirit to know pitch up Rattlebrook Hill to number 8, Chat Tor, at 0909hrs. that they are our future. It would be interesting to know if any of those participating this year return in 50 years time to celebrate The next leg to Kitty Tor was a bit of procession of teams as we 100 years of Ten Tors! followed the range markers (makes sense) and the foot trod in between. Phil Kirk was still suffering but popping the pills, DENBURY BOYS swinging the sticks, gritting his teeth, digging deep and shouting out that, ‘216’ rules okay! The Denbury Boys are a unique bunch in that they came and went so quickly. Formed in Sept 1955, their short life span ended A Royal Signals cap badge greeted us at Kitty Tor (1005 hrs). The with their demise in 1967, some 2,500 passing through a very young sergeant had transferred from the REME as part of the TA intense military and adventurous training programme. The re-organisation, so we congratulated him on his good fortune, emphasis throughout was on leadership with the terms ‘use your shook his hand, bade him farewell and strode off to our last initiative’ and ‘get on with it’ being the most popular phrases checkpoint – number 10, Stourton Tor. Not a long or arduous leg, used! They are proud to have been ‘processed’ through Denbury which is just as well as the team were feeling a bit ‘creaky’ by Camp (Newton Abbot, Devon) and they have formed a deep now. Most of this route was tracked and we got a good leg-on to loyalty and spirit amongst themselves.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 87 The Team Supporting/Admin mention and thank you for Jacqui Stockman of Brixham, Devon, for organising a supporting event and raising over £3,000. Our Phil Castle John Topping Team Manager sincere thanks go to General McDowall for being the team’s Chris Endean Mike Butchers Patron and his rather special, and unique involvement during the Bob Etherton Allen Howard event. Also, sincere thanks to our Supporting/Admin team whose Frank Herod 2nd Navigator Geoff Jackman unstinting efforts helped make the build-up, training and Ken Kay Ted Kilpin participation in this 50th event be so memorable, enjoyable and Phil Kirk Team Leader John Thomasson go so well. Rick Levett Toby Wallis Bernie Temmen Pete Whitfield Bob Wathen Team 2I/C Steve Wright Harry Waugh

The team with General David McDowall CBE and the 50th Anniversary cake

FUNDS RAISED AND THANKS

At the time of writing, some £6400 had been raised for the sponsored charities by and on behalf of the team. A special The route

THE ROYAL SIGNALS ASSOCIATION

Patron: HRH The Princess Royal President: The Master of Signals Chairman: Brig NF Wood Welfare Secretary Association Office Tel (mil) (9)4371 2089 RHQ Royal Signals Tel (civ) 01258 48 2089 Col (Retd) Terry Canham Blandford Camp Email: [email protected] Tel: 01258 482081 Blandford Forum Membership Secretary Dorset Tel (mil) (9)4371 2090 DT11 8RH Tel (civ) 01258 482090 www.royalsignlalsassociation.co.uk Email: [email protected]

General Secretary and Treasurer: Col (Retd) T Canham Assistant General Secretary: Maj (Retd) IN Greig Welfare Secretary: Mrs L Sizeland Membership Secretary: Mr PJ Cuckow Mr Peter Cuckow Maj(Retd) Ian Greig Tel: 01258 482090 Tel: 01258 482082

REPORT ON THE 2010 RSA REUNION arranged for members of the Christchurch Cruiser Club to bring along their shining and colourful Harley-Davidsons, Kawasakis Just over 800 members and their guests attended to 2010 RSA and various other big bikes. Tony Helm also brought along his reunion. This figure was up on 2009 and justified the bringing collection of comms equipment used in the “Cold War”. The forward of the date by a week in order to avoid clashing with the indoor range was again opened for RSA members to have a ‘Armed Forces Day’ celebrations around the country. shoot with the SA80 rifle. The Museum and shop opened early and did a brisk business throughout the day. The display of the current BOWMAN and FALCON equipment was on show by 0900 hrs, along with another splendid gathering The local Pimpernel Beagle Pack was also on show and gave a of old civilian and military vehicles. Terry Inman had once again demonstration of scent trail following.

88 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 Members booked in at “Reception”, which was this year manned Our thanks to all who supported the reunion; members of 11 Sig by LCpl Dan Pearson (3 Sqn 11 Sig Regt) and 10 soldiers from Regt, Garrison staff and all RSA members, many of whom had Battleaxe Tp, who had only that very week arrived at Blandford travelled a fair distance to attend. following their basic trg. At Reception, members collected their meal tickets, programe and souvenir lapel badge. The RSA Admin Officer’s database was on hand so that WO2 (FofS) Andy Soward (Corps Webmaster) could help members check out names of others who served in their units around the same time. Mrs Linda Sizeland (Welfare Secretary) was in Reception and enjoyed answering questions on how the RSA can provide assistance to those in need.

This year we were fortunate to have our Colonel in Chief to inspect those on Parade for the “Princess Royal Day Parade” on Hawke Square. All the hours of training under the guidance of WO1 (RSM) Micky Yendell proved worthwhile as the soldiers put on a great display.

HRH attended the Garrison church for its rededication as the Corps Chapel. Following the service, groups of various individuals were presented to our Colonel in Chief, including 30 RSA members.

Around 500 members/guests took lunch in the Soldiers Restaurant, where the opportunity was taken by the veterans to engage the young soldiers in conversation.

The Corps Band started the afternoon arena display, which should have been followed by a performance by the Corps Free Fall Parachute Team, however the strong wind prevented them from jumping. After their absence last year, it was good to welcome back the “White Helmets”, who gave their usual highly skilled and thrilling display of jumping and tricks. With the Corps RSM involved in the SOinC(A)’s charity cycle ride, WO1 (RSM) Yendell kindly stood in to run the traditional standard bearers’ competition. Ably assisted by WO2 (SSM) Ash Doe and his wife Christine (a standard bearer herself), plus Barry Moody, the judges took the competitors through their drill movements. The Master of Signals presented John Mumford (Reading Branch) with the winner’s cup. Runner up was Bill McNamara from our Glasgow Branch. The other finalists were; Norman Pearce (West London), Brian Calladine (East Kent), Daniel Millan (Sale) and Keith Bates (Rotherham).

Terry Inman produced an interesting drive past and commentary from the Christchurch Cruiser Club, followed by a drive past by a selection of the old vehicles. The Master presented Len Melling with an engraved silver salver to commemorate his retirement from arranging the old vehicle display after 15 years of service to the RSA. The Corps Pipes and Drums joined the Corps Band to lead the DONATIONS sunset ceremony which concluded the afternoon events.

In the evening, WO1 (RSM) Yendell opened up the Sgts Mess to all retired members of the Corps. For many this was the highlight Eastbourne Branch RSA £50.00 of the weekend and many old acquaintances were renewed and Family and friends in memory of lots of new friendships made. Frederick Arthur Thomas £100.00 3 Div Signals Reunion Club in memory of A Drumhead Service was held on Hawke Square at 1030 hrs on Ernest Packham £25.00 the Sunday, with the RSA Hon Chaplain the Rev Peter Clemett Certa Cito Lodge £20.00 and Garrison Padre the Rev David Barrett conducting the R Waldron £20.00 service. The address was given by the Venerable Stephen S Clout £30.00 Robbins, Chaplain-General Her Majesty’s Land Forces. Col Hartlepool Branch RSA £250.00 Terry Canham (General Secretary) and the Master of Signals read Swindon Branch RSA £50.00 the lessons. During the first hymn, branch standards were ‘laid Mr E L Hamilton in memory of his brother up’ and the standard of the “Despatch Riders Club” was Mark Hamilton £55.00 dedicated. WO1 (RSM) Yendell again stood in for the Corps Poole Branch RSA in memory of their late RSM to lead the ‘Act of Remembrance’. Mr David Walker BEM President Lt Col Peter Gahan MBE £100.00 turned a page in the Korean War Book of Remembrance. The Collection at the Drumhead Service at the collection raised £581.00 for the Royal Signals Benevolent Fund. 2010 RSA reunion £576.90 Dr & Mrs B Carolin in memory of The March Past, which ended the whole weekend’s activities, Maj Gen P E M Bradley CB CBE DSO £150.00 was lead by a group of our members who were veterans of the In memory of John Cameron McNeil OBE MC Korean War. donations of £112.50

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 89 plus $100.00 Members of Aldershot Branch £200.00 Mr A D Holman in memory of Roy Andrews £50.00 Denbury Boys Ten Tors Team £786.00 Chester Branch RSA £105.00 Barry Greenwood £10.00 Collected by Mary Wickenden at the RSA reunion £30.00 Jenny Townsend £10.00 Jack Pursglove £1000.00 Maj Gen L W A Gingell CB OBE in memory of Maj Gen P E M Bradley CB CBE £50.00 Arthur Threlfall Searson with thanks for an excellent reunion weekend £100.00 Dennis Jones £ 5.00 Certa Cito Lodge 8925 in memory of Brian Ward £40.00 Bedford Branch RSA in memory of Lou O’Dell £25.00 Puzzling it out, the Eventual Quiz Winners: L to R John Hamilton- Bedford Branch RSA in memory of Williams, Ginty Read, Gay Hamilton-Williams and Stuart Read Charles Chambers £25.00 Jean and John Lincoln in memory of Maj Gen P E M Bradley CB CBE DSO £30.00 In memory of Lt Col Peter Gahan MBE cheques totaling £205.00 BRIGHTON BRANCH

Chairman Tony Allibone

ALDERSHOT BRANCH Since our last report the Branch has continued with the usual activities of pub lunches, coffee mornings and evening meetings The venue for our coffee mornings is now Shoreham Airport and Chairman Noel Moss this has proved very popular perhaps because the building is an Secretary Mary Pagan attractive Art Deco style which was used in the “Poirot” series

Our annual Quiz Night has become a firm fixture over the past 16 Our major event is our Annual Dinner which was held at the years. Starting in 1995 with a handful of contestants, its great Courtlands hotel in Hove. Our guests at this event were Brig Ted popularity has resulted in attendance of up to 100, including good Flint and his wife Gillian. This was an enjoyable event which was turnouts from the local serving units. This year, the fact that 261 well supported and even some of our overseas members Sig Sqn were still brushing off the sand from Afghanistan meant attended that we were deprived of some worthy contestants. In spite of that, 2 serving teams each from Aldershot’s 251 Sig Sqn and The Branch standard was paraded at Brighton on Remembrance Pirbright’s Army Training Sqn contributed to the total of 15 teams. Sunday escorted by members of 884 Tp. The year closed with Our own branch raised 4 teams, while neighbouring Branches, our Christmas Lunch and the usual evening meeting as a Reading, West London and Winchester as well as the WRAC Christmas Party. The committee has been considering alternative Association were well represented. We were also pleased to see venues for our evening meetings in 2010 because of the cost of a team from the Garrison Sgts Mess, where the event is held using the local TAC and other factors. A trial has been made each year. using the RBL Hall in Portslade.

Our Quizmaster, Neville Lyons and Lt Tony Graham of 251 Sig In March we held our AGM and the committee were re-elected, a Sqn had jointly compiled the questions on this occasion, though very satisfactory set of accounts presented and members Tony took care to be absent on a course, thus avoiding any expressed their appreciation to the committee for their valued possible brickbats on the night! As it happened there were some work. The subsequent lunch ensured a very good attendance. unusually high scores, with scoreboard conscientiously supervised by husband-and-wife team, Noel and Edelgard Our Summer Lunch was attended by 33 members who were Moss. So no complaints! One of the Aldershot teams, ‘The Gay delighted to welcome our new President, Lt. Col Simon Malik, Cavaliers’ were outright winners, while the best serving team who retired CO of 71 Signal Regt. This was a particularly happy also received prizes were ‘Three Degreez’ (sic) from 251 Sig Sqn. appointment as Simon knows some of our members from their service in the TA. We look forward to a happy association with The Mess came up trumps with an excellent buffet at half time, him and his wife Penny. while the evening was rounded off with the raffle draw and copious prizes, organised meticulously by Mary Pagan and Jean The Branch has had a few new members join since our last report Wilson. and would always welcome any ex signallers.

The previous weekend, one of our stalwart contestants, Chris Endean, had taken part in the 50th anniversary of the Ten Tors Challenge. Chris was part of a ten-man team, all ex-Junior CARDIFF BRANCH Leaders, now with an average age of 63, all having competed in their youth in the 1960’s. This year, they finished the gruelling 35- mile 2-day event, crossing the line at 1.30pm on the Sunday, with President Mr JHS Lister 3 ½ hours to spare. Chairman Mr Selwyn Williams Hon Sec Bill Davies Combined with the Challenge, the event was used as a fund- raising activity for Help for Heroes and the Royal Signals Sadly I have to write and inform RHQ that we have lost another Benevolent Fund. Chris received personal donations of more member of our Branch, namely Mr Ron Borley. Ron was born in than £800 and the team as a whole collected around £6,000. 1931 and he passed away on Thursday 10 of.June 2010. Ron They deserve our hearty congratulations. was not a life member of the RSA, he was a local member within

90 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 the Cardiff Branch. Ron served in the Corps in National Service attended the annual reunion at as a Dispatch Rider and then for many years with the TA with first Blandford where we witnessed Bill 53 Sig Sqn (V) and later with 55 Sig Sqn (V). coming 2nd in the Standard Bearers competition. The entire event was well The Branch was represented at the service and many of his organised and well attended. Many former colleagues from the TA were in attendance. The Branch friendships were re kindled and many provided the Corps Colours in the form of a Coffin Drape and the new friends made all who attended are Last Post and reveille was played. looking forward to next years event.

The Branch members attended the Armed Forces Day Parade in Glasgow. COTSWOLDS BRANCH The Branch President, Chairman and Secretary, along with many others, enjoyed a very well attended event. The Our belated AGM was held on Tuesday 25 May at The Victory people of Glasgow turned out in their Club, Cheltenham. Twenty three members were present and thousands and the parade was cheered were welcomed by the Chairman who opened the Meeting by and applauded throughout it’s length. telling us that the past year had been a quiet one although we were involved in quite a few things, (much of which has been reported in The Wire). The increase in subscriptions in 2009 had not affected Membership and we were now in a much better NORTHERN IRELAND BRANCH financial situation, this was verified by the Treasurer who asked if all members present had received a copy of the audited accounts and there being no questions it was proposed by Roger Taylor Chairman Mr Jim Reilly that they be accepted and seconded by Stuart James and a Hon. Sec Capt Ian Wolfe show of hands. “RECRUITING IS IMPORTANT” HE SAID! The Hon Sec updated those present with information received via e-mail and the Association AGM held in London at the end of “The sun shines on the righteous”, someone once wrote and if March. This was available to Members. that’s true, the BIM must be a righteous man. This year we had 3 new members join the branch, all ladies! They are ex-40 (U) Sig Our Branch Dinner will be held in September and our Area Regt (V) but from different periods in time. Sgt Margaret Representative has accepted our invitation to be our guest. Full McMillan still serves with 69 (NIH) Sig Sqn following the details later. disbandment of the Regt. Margaret joined the Branch in 2010 having been instantly useful by running the bar in the Sergeant’s Arrangements have been finalised for our coach trip to Blandford Mess in Clonaver at our monthly meetings. More recently ex- on 19th June. Sixteen members will be going, leaving SSgt Liz Montgomery and ex-Cpl Lorraine Pyper (nee Scott) Cheltenham 0700hrs (an early start for us these days). joined us; both served in 66 (City of Belfast) Sig Sqn in the 1970’s & 80’s. The question of recruitment to the Branch was raised and it was agreed that rather than just relying on sending Branch We were short of numbers of the fairer sex but now the balance Introduction Information (the response is very poor) we make it has improved at last. So far the Branch has not received any more personal by making an appeal through our local radio. applications to join from ex-soldiers of the disbanded 40 (U) Sig Regt (V). We need to advertise more! The Election of Branch Officers and Committee was Chaired by Bernard Barton-Ancliffee. With the exception of Derek NEXT MEETING Wheatley who due to bad health tended his resignation the existing Officers and Committee were re-elected. The vacancy by Our June monthly meeting will be held at the same time as these a show of hands will be Liz Friend, one of our lady members. notes are being sent to The Wire for the August edition. We can be assured of a lively meeting with a talk to be given by our Finally under AOB The Chairman, Ray Woolley, whilst accepting venerable member, Col (Retd) Ian Henderson OBE TD. His talk the post of Chairman for this coming year has decided after a will be about his recent visit to 40 (U) Sig Regt Group on great deal of thought due to his continuing bad health to stand Operation Tosca in Cyprus. Colonel Ian served as an officer in down at the end of the year. 40 (U) Sig Regt (V) during the 1970-80’s, became CO and later was Hon Col until 2008 when he retired. He has certainly not lost Our oldest Committee Member George Blake is hospitalised contact with the Regt and is noted for his eloquent and humorous having suffered a stroke during the winter. We are hoping he will speeches in several hallowed circles. recover soon. BLANDFORD REUNION The evening ended after the Act of Homage followed by a raffle and some light refreshment. Twelve members have signed up to go to the Reunion this week including the B.I.M who hasn’t been to Blandford since the 1960’s. He expects to recognise some old faces!

GLASGOW BRANCH CONGRATULATIONS

Northern Ireland Branch of the RSA wish to congratulate Maj Much has been happening within the Branch in relation to the Barry Skinner TD on his well-earned and recent award of MBE. fund raising for the celebration of the Branchs’ 20th Anniversary Barry is currently in Cyprus on Operation TOSCA. next year. Suggestions as to the format and any items to be included will be welcomed by the organising committee. ENIGMA

Bill McNamara, the Branch Standard Bearer, has been appointed Local military historian Mr George Busby, who talked last year to as drill instructor to the British Legion Standard Bearer’s Drill the Branch about Gilnahirk Spy Station, has updated his script Team. This team attend numerous parades and functions after a visit to Bletchley Park. George gave an updated talk last throughout Central Scotland and are highly thought of. Members week at the local Somme Heritage Centre, which was attended

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 91 by about 80 people including the B.I.M. Several past-members ;Hollyoaks, Shameless, The Royle Family and Emmerdale, and of 40 (U) Sig Regt (V) including Capt Jim Simpson and one ex- these guys know how to play. CO, Col Bill Gillespie were present. Another opportunity for advertising for branch members was not overlooked. The day started with an arranged meeting outside Altrincham Football Club at 1100hrs’ish as it turned out. This was to be the ANNIVERSARY first time we had met each other, so off we went to Tesco’s for a breakfast and introduce ourselves. One anniversary you probably will only read about here is that of the arrival in Belfast of Jack Mount on 27 June 1940. Jack is a Some bright spark then came up with the great idea that we well-known member of the Exmouth Branch. The 27 June 2010 should probably find out who can play where and make a team will be the 70th anniversary of the arrival of the “City of Derby”, list out … hmmm … so in true military fashion and lots of which sailed indirectly from Brest to Belfast. It was bringing Jack swearing this was done with Stuart Hendy 2 Yorks and his dad and his WT Section here to continue their war effort. They had Andrew Scullion Para/RMP vet, taking up the pen and making escaped from France 3 weeks after Dunkirk. The cargo was said the team list. It was decided to field the military boys first half & to be military supplies but in fact it was a crack team of signallers then start rotating the sponsors in the second half, this was with their radio vans and equipment. They went on to do much agreed uncontested as we forgot to invite the sponsors to our useful work with their radios and pigeons as well. They were gathering in Tesco’s. based in Clonaver Park TA centre in 1948 for part of their time. Jack is still very active, now living in Devon with wife Elizabeth. We then headed back to the ground and met up with Arko Happy Anniversary Jack! Harkness 1 Mercian vet, gave him the team sheet & let him sort it out. As usual, we issue an invitation to all serving or ex-members of Royal Signals, regular or TA and ex-members of ATS/WRAC who The kit we played in was the 2 Yorks strip as this was brand served with Royal Signals, to join us at Clonaver Park TAC, spanking new and looked the part (the Army Benevolent Fund Belfast, on the third Wednesday of each month. sponsors 2 Yorks), so we donned our new shiny kit and went on the pitch for our first and only warm up, as a put together team over breakfast in Tesco’s. After a 10 minute kick about it was back into the changing room for team talk, tactics and let ROTHERHAM BRANCH everyone know just what was happening.

We also had on board our cameraman James Milligan, 2 photographers and an interviewer to make a DVD of the days Bill Barron a 77 year old member of Rotherham Branch RSA event, including after match interviews, links will be available on, completed a 15,00 ft skydive in aid of the Alzheimers Society, on http://surefire-tasking.blogspot.com/ under the Altrincham add. 19 May 2010,at Hibaldstow Skydiving School, Lincolnshire. Early indications are that the event will raise £1,300 plus. well done Both teams then lined up in the tunnel where an apology was Bill. made to the lady ref for the tourette’s that certain members of the team suffered from, the captain then apologised for the whole team and told them all to please be quiet, or words to that effect. We then all trooped onto the pitch to the cheers of the crowd, about 1000 people had turned up to support the event which was fantastic, we lined up for team photo’s with the mascots then on with the game.

The first half was quite evenly matched with both teams testing each other, the soldiers played very well with a team that has never played together before, with soldiers from 3 different Regts. In contrast the celebrity’s were a very polished and efficient team and had played together on numerous occasions, that being said the first half was a relatively even affair with our boys shipping 1 goal.

At half time both teams left the pitch to much applause from the Bill Barron in full flight stands and to prepare for the second half. he Army team had now to field a new team with some soldiers and the rest being sponsors of the event, so after oranges and spring water we headed out onto the pitch for the second half. SALE BRANCH Though everyone played as best as they could unfortunately we shipped another 3 goals, which was a little disappointing for us as we don’t like to lose, but the whole match was played in the President Jack Peers spirit the event was organised for. Vice Chairman Kane Gunter Secretary Martin Quinn Congratulations to LCpl Wayne Latham who won man of the match after an excellent game. The football match held by kind permission of Altrincham Football Club was played on Sunday 28 March on a hot sunny day. The After the match there was a raffle for some great prizes including event was organised by the students from Manchester signed items from David Beckham, Alan Shearer and Paul Metropolitan University events management team and Kane Gascoigne to name a few. Gunter RSA Sale, Operation Surefire. Special thanks must go to 2nd Bn Yorkshire Regiment, 1st Bn We had in our team of soldiers, veterans and sponsor players Mercian Regiment, Manchester Metropolitan University, Hollings from the Corps in the shape of Sgt Lee Frazer AFCO Faculty, Events Team and Steve Halsall with his excellent Manchester and LCpl Wayne Latham of 11 Sig Regt. In addition celebrity football team, without Steve and his team we would not members of the 2nd Bn the Yorkshire Regiment, 1st Bn the have achieved the £8,000 (split £2k RSBF & £6k H4H) we made, Mercian Regiment and sponsors from the local area. The as his team helps so much in attracting a larger crowd and opposition was a celebrity team from Coronation Street, making it a family event.

92 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 Soward told them the rules of the raffle; everyone brings a prize, everyone who brings a prize is offered a single ticket in exchange for a crisp five-pound note so everyone wins a prize! In spite of being told that there was no need, they hurtled into town and returned with various goodies before a quick-change act into No 2 Dress to join us for our AGM where they voted enthusiastically for every motion.

And then to dinner. A good meal, prompt service and copious wine that flowed freely. After the Loyal Toast our Chaplain, Rev McManus, said a prayer before handing the Silver Chinook to Vice-Chairman Gerald Evans who formally presented it to Sig The Army and Sponsors team Mark Washington, delegated to accept it on behalf of 21 Sig Regt. Mark was the youngest soldier present and one of the last to leave Iraq at the end of Op TELIC. The presentation marked SOUTH LONDON BRANCH the completion of nearly 62 years continuous operational service by detachments of the Regt and the tragic loss of one life, Sig Paul William Didsbury. Following the presentation we raised our At the AGM on 7 April there was a change of management. glasses to his memory. Doug Anderson, who had been in the chair for 13 years, decided that it was time for someone else to have a go at the helm. Peter Benstead had prepared himself for this moment by being appointed Vice-Chairman last year, so he shook off the vice and took the reins after the Meeting.

To mark his dedication to the Branch and the work he put into its running, Secretary Steve Bland, on behalf of the Branch, presented Doug with an RS glass tankard, appropriately engraved with their appreciation. It was not empty for long!

The Silver Chinook, presented by the Air Formation Signals Association to 21 Sig Regt (AS) to commemorate the return of the Regiment from Op TELIC Any reader who served in 21 Sig Regt or 244 Sig Sqn who would like to be associated with this presentation is invited to contact the Association publicity officer, Lt Col (Retd) PF Soward (01258-860647) for more details.

As members enjoyed a leisurely cup of coffee, Maureen Soward AIR FORMATION SIGNALS and Joyce Horne organised the draw which made £110 for Association funds. Maureen then auctioned a glass bowl ASSOCIATION (brought along by Dennis Egan) and the floral arrangements making another £36. Kane Gunter, co-opted as Association President Lt Col GN Addley Photographer at the AGM, ran amok with his camera and the Chairman Dr AD Vickers results may be seen on the association website. Secretary Mr DK Egan We are already planning next year’s reunion which may take place REUNION, MAY 2010 in the south - possibly near Southampton or Bournemouth.

Friday 7 May and members started to arrive at our new venue, ROYAL SIGNALS MEMORIALS AT THE NATIONAL MEMORIAL the Prince of Wales Hotel, Southport. From the start we had a ARBORETUM room to ourselves with our own bar. Chairman, Dr David Vickers assembled the silver Chinook centrepiece to be presented the As announced in the April edition of The Wire, copies of the DVD following day and members admired its quality and weight! After of Royal Signals Memorials at the National Memorial Arboretum a buffet dinner we were treated to entertainment by Ms Emma have been on sale for some time. Sales are going well and James who sang songs from Evita and other shows and, with ‘interim dividends’ of £48.80 have been made to the Royal due appreciation of our age, such old favourites as ‘You’ll Get No Signals Benevolent Fund and the Air Formation Signals Promotion’, ‘Pack Up Your Troubles’ and ‘Tipperary’ where we all Association. joined in with gusto. With eagle eye she espied the 3 unaccompanied males, Eric Knott, Frank Ramshaw and David AMATEUR RADIO STATIONS Barnes and, with Frazer Gordon, fitted them with funny hats and persuaded them to accompany her with words and actions, GB4HFH (Help for Heroes) and GB5AFD (Armed Forces Day) singing ‘YMCA’! operated from Training Wing, 21 Sig Regt from 1 – 8 June. The stations will re-start operations from Barry Amateur Radio Station, Saturday morning was spent exploring Southport whilst our Sully (between Barry and Penarth in the Vale of Glamorgan) from chaplain, Rev Jim McManus accompanied by Mavis and Pam 21 – 30 June. The operation is masterminded by AFSA General Morgan caught the train to Liverpool and visited the Maritime Secretary Dennis Egan and a full report will be published in the Museum, returning with enthusiastic reports. Mid afternoon and next edition of The Wire. The background photograph on the QSL Sgt Philip Eves, LCpl James Young and Sigs Ash Reynolds Cards is of the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Headley and Mark Washington arrived from Colerne to join us. Maureen Court.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 93 Sig A Langsford 1961/76 24/01/2010 Sig EM Locke 1942/46 22/05/2010 19 SIGNAL REGIMENT Sig T F Logan 1950/68 25/06/2010 Cpl RJ Malseed 1961/84 01/06/2010 ASSOCIATION LCpl FE Nairn 1948/53 14/06/2010 Sig RG Nixey 1939/46 01/04/2010 INDIAN SIGNALS MEMORIAL AT THE NATIONAL MEMORIAL Lt EW Packham 1940/65 21/05/2010 ARBORETUM Maj RV Purkis TD 1945/87 28/06/2010 Sgt JW Salter 1971/93 28/10/2010 A tree bearing a plastic tag with the words ‘Planted for all ranks of Sig AG Shore 1932/47 28/06/2010 Royal Signals and Indian Signals lost in Burma in WW2’ was Sgt RJ Sinnott 1961/76 15/05/2010 planted and dedicated in the Far East area of the Arboretum Cpl N Smedley 1950/55 01/05/2010 some years ago. Whilst the tree is flourishing, the tag is showing Sig D Spark 1962/69 26/02/2010 its age and is difficult to read. 19 Signal Regiment Association Maj M Stears 1941/78 17/05/2010 suggested to RHQ that it might be appropriate to replace the tag LCpl SJ Wallace 2000/09 13/05/2010 with a more durable metal plaque, similar to those associated Cpl BK Ward 1959/61 17/06/2010 with other trees in this high profile area. That has been agreed. Cpl E Young 1973/85 04/07/2010 Sgt LG Young 1981/?? 02/06/2010 19 Signal Regiment Association will be dedicating a tree to 19th Air Formation Signals in the FEAF (Far East Air Force) Grove on Sunday, September 5th, during their annual OBITUARIES reunion. It has been agreed that the Association shall act as RHQ’s agent by procuring a plaque, bearing similar ANDERSON - Sgt Keith Anderson died 19 April 2010. words to the original plaque but including the Royal Signals and Indian Keith Anderson became an army apprentice on the 22nd August Signal Corps cap badges, and re- 1972. He remained at Harogate until 1974. He served in Belize dedicate the tree on September 5th. and Norway during1975/76 and with 13 Sig Regt in Germany from 1977 – 1981. He then served and in Lisburn from 1981 – Any reader who has comments on this 1982, then joined 30 Sig Regt in Blandford from 1982 - 1985. His proposal, would like further details or last posting was to SHAPE HQ until his retirement in 1989. would like to attend the re-dedication ceremony, is invited to contact me: Kieth then joined the Metropolitan police force where he served with distinction. He had recently retired from the force but Lt Col(Retd) PF Soward, continued to work for them as a civilian. He leaves behind his Chairman, 19th Signal Regiment Association wife Deborah his son Cameron and his three step children, who will miss him terribly. LAST POST BARON – Lt Col Peter Richard Baron died 6 April 2010. Peter Baron was born on 11 July 1947 in Crewe. After leaving Crewe Grammar School and a short sojourn as a tailor’s Name and Rank Served Years Died apprentice Pete enlisted on 31 March 1965 and undertook his basic and Sig TJ Alderson 1975/87 30/06/2010 trade training as a Comcen Operator Cpl RF Andrews 1951/76 29/05/2010 at Catterick. Following successful Sig D J Archer 1966/72 08/05/2010 completion of his training he was Cpl JPC Arundel 1983/94 12/05/2010 posted to 7 Sig Regt in January Maj P Ashlin 1943/77 21/06/2010 1966. Tours then followed to Sgt JV Birchby 1949/58 29/05/2010 Bahrain, SHAPE, HQ BAOR/Rhine Sig R Borley 1950/?? 10/06/2010 Army/Rheindahlen Garrison/UKSC(G) Maj Gen PEM Bradley and 16 Sig Regt. During his time at CB CBE DSO 1934/70 02/06/2010 SHAPE he met Lynn, who was to be the RG Bryant 1939/46 11/07/2010 love of his life for over 38 years, and they WO1 NJ Cawthra 1970/92 01/06/2010 were married on 8 January 1972. Pete had SSgt CRD Chacksfield 2003/10 03/06/2010 always been regarded as cheerful, helpful, professional and Cpl S Claydon 2004/10 07/05/2010 flexible but now fully supported by Lynn he successfully Sig TJ Corbett 1954/57 15/06/2010 undertook his YofS selection and attended and passed 29 YofS Sgt D Cullen 1971/93 29/11/2009 Course in March 1977. Col SC Dare 1941/73 28/05/2010 LCpl JB Davis 1951/55 07/05/2010 April 1977 saw him posted back to 7 Sig Regt during which time WO2 AE De La Haye 1963/92 01/05/2010 he was detached to Belize as the Force Custodian and promoted SSgt CW Deadman 1970/90 04/06/2010 to WO2 prior to his move to 30 Sig Regt in October 1980 as the Sgt WG Doyle 1949/61 09/07/2010 Ops Offr of a radio sqn. Here he saw exercise deployment in LCpl EJ Finch 1942/46 31/07/2009 Northern Europe, Africa, Belize and USA and operational Sig DF Furnell 1944/47 24/05/2010 deployment on Op CORPORATE where he commanded the first Sig MF Gray 1948/49 10/11/2009 Spearhead detachment and went ashore on D-Day in support of Sig DK Grout 2005/10 18/05/2010 3 Cdo Bde. As ever he performed brilliantly amid extremely tiring, Sgt AMH Hamilton 1947/74 29/04/2010 arduous and dangerous situations and again demonstrated and SSgt RJL Harries 1950/68 01/06/2010 maintained his usual extremely high professional standards Brig TGH Jackson OBE 1941/76 21/05/2010 throughout. His efforts were rewarded by promotion to WO1 and Cpl JP Kennelly 1970/79 29/06/2010 posting to 3 Armd Div Sig Regt in June 1983 where he continued Sgt JW Kerr 1938/46 18/06/2010 to impress and contributed significantly to the Regts successful Sgt CF Lander 1938/52 07/06/2010 Ptarmigan conversion. His arrival as the newly commissioned Tfc

94 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 Offr at 22 Sig Regt in February 1987 marked a new challenge and GAHAN - Lt Col Peter Gahan MBE died 2 May 2010 one that he grasped with both hands. He was identified as able to listen, give sensible comment and constructive criticism. His It is with deep regret that we record the death success enabled him to move seamlessly to a staff appointment of the President of the Poole Branch of the at 1 (BR) Corps in May 1990. As SO3 Comms Freqs he deployed RSA, Lt Col (Retd) Peter Gahan MBE on Op GRANBY 1 as the 1 (BR) Corps Freqency Manager within who died after a short illness and stay in TSEP where he was responsible for both the ageing CARRFA and hospital on 2 May 2010. new FAME frequency management systems. Following his return he assumed the appointment of SO2 Comms (Freqs) HQ ARRC. Peter was born on 8 May 1923 and As one would expect Pete’s posting to 38 Sig Regt (V) in Nov with his senior schooling completed in 1994 as Training Major posed no issues. Again he demonstrated 1942, applied to join the Corps under his ability as a multi-talented officer with tremendous ability and the Special Entry Cadetship. Having inherent flexibility with that rare amalgam of character and passed the Army medical he, together personality. A short tour followed as OC 240 Sig Sqn in Dec with 3 others, was sent to Worcester 1996 that preceded his promotion to the pinnacle as Lt Col Tfc College, Oxford University for six months Offr and subsequent posting to BDMT/CSDC Blandford in June to sharpen their education! 1998. Here he was primarily involved in the trials and From December 1942 to April 1943 he did introduction of Bowman and where again he demonstrated his his full pre commissioning training in Catterick patience and ability to understand the user and suggest and was duly awarded a war-time commission in the Royal pragmatic solutions. Signals. His first posting was to 3 Command Signals, stationed on Salisbury Plain, where he was OC of one of the Troops Pete was extremely proud of Royal Signals, his friends and manning the Signal Centre in the grounds of Wilton House. He service therein - loved tradition and maintained his links through became Assistant Adjutant of the unit and quickly moved up to the Association and regular Traffic and other reunions. He carried join the Chief Signal Officers staff at HQ Southern Command. his professional, cheerful, relaxed attitude of nothing being too much trouble throughout his military career and beyond into Despite being heavily involved in general communications work civilian employment with Westland after he left the Army after a along the south coast he longed for action overseas and full career in April 2002. He was known for being meticulous, frequently badgered the CSO for a move. In October 1944 his totally reliable, willing to take advice and listen but firm once wish was granted and he arrived in Barrackpore near Calcutta at agreement had been reached. It is his measure that he was able the HQ Allied Land Forces, South East Asia. He was promoted to to adapt seamlessly to civilian employment and won the acting Captain as the SO3 (Equipment). The HQ moved on to admiration of professional civilians for his meticulous approach Ceylon to prepare for any further advance by the Japanese, but and delivery particularly of training. He had time for, and cared with their surrender in 1945 the HQ moved on to Singapore. about, people whoever they were and was highly respected for his opinion. He hated pomposity and arrogance and if anybody He continued as SO3 (Equipment) and in 1946 was granted his ever strayed they were soon put right with a sideways look or dry Regular Commission. In Singapore he enjoyed the peace-time witted comment. role and played Rugby and Cricket according to the seasons and was always in great demand as a pianist. At a Christmas party Anyone who knew Pete realised that his life did not revolve he met Mickie, who was serving with the WVS, and their around work and it was extremely fortuitous that following friendship became a serious courtship, but they decided to delay retirement he moved to Glentworth from Blandford some 18 marriage until they were back in the UK and they came home months ago so that he could be nearer to family particularly his separately in 1948. Peter was posted as Adjutant of the Depot children and grandchildren. He took with him his love of Regt R Signals at Pocklington, Yorkshire and they married on the gardening and flowers - his gardens not surprisingly were always 2 April 1949. David was born a year later. colourful and immaculate with not a weed in sight. He was also able to pursue his love of wildlife and particularly bird watching. In 1951 Peter was posted to 6 Armd Div Sig Regt on Salisbury As one would expect on arrival in Glentworth he involved himself Plain and the next year managed to get an exchange posting to in the local community, participating in functions, regularly cutting Australia. He was based in Melbourne and it was here that the Village Hall grass and engaging in conversation to the extent Beverley was born mid 1952. The family enjoyed a wonderful that he soon had various local contacts and the “low down” on and varied time in Australia and returned to UK late 1954, most. exchanging the sunshine of OZ for the winter chill of Catterick! Here Peter became Adjutant of the Officer Training Wing of the Pete throughout his life remained very smart, active and fully fit School of Signals until 1957. He was then promoted Major and so it came as a real shock when cancer was diagnosed in posted to command the Army Boys’ Trade School in Singapore January 2010. Lovingly supported by Lynn and the family he an appointment he found very rewarding. adopted a very open, extremely positive attitude and determined to fight. Regrettably the cancer was too aggressive and Pete In September 1960 Germany beckoned and Peter was posted to succumbed and passed away at home with his family on Tuesday 2 Sig Regt in Bunde but within 18 months the family were on the evening 6 April 2010. move again, to Canada in an exchange officer post. Based in Ontario it gave Peter & Mickie wonderful opportunities to travel Pete’s funeral was held at All Saints’ Church Hemswell, and their social life was very good. Lincolnshire with the committal at Scunthorpe Crematorium on Tuesday 20 April 2010. Numerous family, friends and colleagues Mid 1964 Catterick beckoned yet again and he became 2IC of 8 in excess of 180 attended and resulted in standing room only at Sig Regt for the next 2 years before moving to Signals 35 at the both locations – a true reflection of the esteem in which he was MOD. Here he was deeply involved in the introduction of the new held. BRUIN system for BAOR and for his sterling work he was awarded the MBE in 1969. Promotion to Lt Col followed in 1970 Pete was a first class officer, loving and passionate family man and Peter moved to another MOD appointment, on the General and wonderfully true friend who never lost his mischievous, Staff, before taking early retirement at the age of 50 in August infectious sense of humour, generosity and concern for others. 1973. He will be greatly missed but “To live in the hearts of those we leave behind is not to die” and we will remember him with great, Peter and Mickie moved to Broadstone in 2000 and he duly heartfelt affection. Our thoughts and sympathy are very much joined the Poole Branch of the RSA, becoming their President in with Lynn, son Carl and his wife Sara, daughter Jennie and her 2009. He rarely missed a monthly meeting and he and Mickie husband Stuart and Grandchildren Adam, Sally, Charlie and attended all the Branch outings and social events right up to last Tabitha at this sad time. Christmas.

THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010 95 POWELL - Eric Edward Powell 1919-2010

Eric was born 1919 in Bute Crescent, in the dock area of Cardiff and was the elder of 2 boys. Howard his younger brother by 2 REUNIONS years died almost 30 years ago.

He was brought up in a family who had very strong connections with St Mary the Virgin Church in Bute Street. They had an open 260 SIGNAL SQUADRON (SAM) ASSOCIATION house to all the clergy and Eric came to know many great characters. As a young boy he was a server and carried the With the coming of spring and the warmer weather members of incense boat before joining his father in the choir when he was 7 260 Sig Sqn (SAM.) association came out of hibernation and years old. Howard also became a chorister and all 3 would join made their way to the Royal Hotel, Llandudno on the weekend 23 in and sing very ambitious anthems and cantatas. In later years - 25 April for their annual reunion. Eric was to become choirmaster himself. Most members arrived at the hotel on Friday afternoon/evening. Apologies were received from Rod Webdell, he could not attend Eric’s The 2nd World War played an important part of life. He the reunion as he was scheduled to go into hospital for a bypass joined the Territorial Army and was then called up on 2 Sept 1939 operation, or in his words a piece of garden hose fitted. We all to serve with the Royal Signals. As a l9 year old he was sent to wish Rod a speeded recovery. France and was to become one of the last to be evacuated from Dunkirk. As a Class 1 Signal Officer he was attached to various Later that evening Steve Freeman Pannet the association Regiments and spent time all over the world. He was Mentioned chairman received a phone call from Helen and Sam Sahota in Dispatches, involved in the invasion of Sicily and eventually asking for directions to the hotel, they had travelled from Cyprus finished the war based in Florence and Milan in charge of the to Llandudno but could not find the hotel. A little bit of volcanic main telephone exchanges that connected the whole European ash was not going to stop them from attending this year’s network. reunion.

During the war years he married Mary and had two sons The AGM was held on Saturday morning. At the meeting Sam Malcolm and John and eventually became a proud grandfather Sahota was elected president of the association as Peter to Tom. Lenthall had resigned due to ill heath; the remainder of the committee were re-elected into their current posts. After the war years he trained as a teacher and taught in Kent On the conclusion of the meeting most members made their way before returning to Cardiff where he taught in Splott and Ely and to the tram station to visit the popular local tourist attraction the also became Tutor Organiser in Cardiff prison. He was appointed Great Orme. Lynda and Les Harrison took themselves off to Headteacher of Llanedeyrn Junior School when the school visit a stately home in Anglesey, a place they had always wanted opened and saw the number of pupils rise to over 500 before he to visit. retired. A dinner was held in the hotel Saturday evening followed by a His fight for justice and working conditions for teachers through raffle organised by Beryl and Geoff Scott, treasurer and NASUWT Teacher’s Union, both in Wales and nationally, is well secretary to raise money for the 260 Sig Sqn association. known and he was honoured to become National President in Sunday morning adventure training was arranged by Ann and 1982. Chris Conroy, a trip up Snowdon. Members were advised to wear warm clothing and a hat, this instruction was questioned by He was Chairman of Rhiwbina Recreation Club for many years some member as it was a beautiful sunny morning when we set and once again continued his fight for better facilities. He off. The Snowdon mountain railway in early season stops at the enjoyed being a member of the Bowls section and made many three quarter point on the mountain – Clogwyn. The train stops friends. During his life he enjoyed his sport and for many years here for 30mins to allow people to stretch their legs before played cricket for Cardiff Schoolmasters. He not only played returning back down the mountain. The views were spectacular himself but enrolled all the family to make up the numbers. until we hit the cloud base. At the stop very few members ventured outside due to the wet and windy weather. Pauline and He became involved with the Cardiff branch of the Royal Signals Mick Rose from Aberdeen did go out saying the weather was Association when he retired and became Chairman for 20 years, just like back home. producing a monthly newsletter right up until he entered hospital. As a representative of the Branch he met Royalty on many On return to the station at the base of Snowdon Steve Freeman occasions. Pannett and fellow EDs where seen gazing at the engine muttering Cummings engine, drive shaft, disc brakes. His love of music continued throughout his life and after he retired he learned to play the flute and became a guiding force in Most members departed on the Sunday afternoon promising to the Cardiff Flute Ensemble. His quest for learning never ceased meet up again 6 - 9 May 2011 at our reunion in Dortmund. and only recently he decided to learn the Welsh language. Ex members of 260 Sig Sqn(SAM.) who would like to join us in Dortmund please contact Beryl and Geoff Scott on Tel 01422 His involvment with St Edeyrns Church goes back to 1975 when 373075 or E mail. [email protected] he was asked to play the organ as a stand-in, not knowing he would continue playing for 3l years. He loved the Church and continued to be involved and worship there even becoming a Chalice Bearer only 2 yrs ago. One of his greatest wishes was to see the organ refurbished.

His first wife died in 1994 and he then married Daphne and together they have had l5 years together which to both of them has been very precious indeed.

Eric was a man of many talents, full of stories, someone who could hold an audience in the palm of his hand, a genuine orator. He was a man who cared about his family, who cared about justice for his fellow human beings and a gentleman who was a true Christian. We shall miss him. The 2010 260 Sig Sqn (SAM) association reunion

96 THE WIRE, AUGUST 2010