Summer 2014
LONDON BRIDGE The Journal of the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Greater London
DRUMHEAD SERVICE Reception and Medal
pResentationservice ands the presentation of rumhead Following the d olonel ‘stepping Forward’, there was a reception in the grounds of the Royal Hospitalearl during of Wessex which (Royal 10 medals Honorary were c the rince Michael of Kent COMMEMORATIVEpresented by ondon Regiment), p combined Maritime rtilleryReserves of the l a hief of the olonel (commodore-in-c olonel of the Honourable alexandra (Royal Honorary c and Royal Honoraryrincess c company) and p of the Royal Yeomanry). BOOKLET INSIDE ReMeMBeR IN THIS ISSUE: A DAY to the solemn drumhead service of Remembrance for those who Volunteered to serve in the First World War
Royal Hospital chelsea • Solemn Drumhead Service at Royal Hospital Chelsea saturday 28 June 2014 association for Greater london • Armed Forces Day celebrations Reserve Forces’ and cadets’ • Civilian Skills Training with the Army Reserve • Reserves support flood relief efforts • Success on the slopes – Winter Exercises round-up www.glrfca.org CONTENTS VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE Colonel Hugh Purcell Chief Executive
2 View from the Bridge A month in the life of your RFCA – June 2014 Defence Relationship Management GL RFCA continues to meet the needs of the three Services, which in June, not only threw up the usual 3 Under the Spotlight: Nick Summers challenges but some new ones too! Editing of ‘Stepping Forward’ and planning for Armed Forces Week, HMS PRESIDENT refurbishment which culminated in the Drumhead Service at the Royal Hospital Chelsea (see commemorative booklet), filled every spare moment. This was interspersed by several youth events, which included YOU, Youth United 4 SaBRE News and the CVQO Duke of Westminster Awards. The latter, at the House of Lords, featured Cadet Sergeant NHS Professionals Thanked Major Rebecca Varney from Staines who won the Regional Ambassador award (see Cadet London Bridge). for Support Big Breakfast for Chamber Key events we were intimately involved in included: of Commerce • 9th – The Armed Forces Community Covenant (AFCC) Regional Grant Panel, which met to review bids 5 New Employer Recognition received to the AFCC Grant Scheme Scheme launched • 10th – Royal Gun Salutes at Hyde Park and the Tower of London involving the hosting of faith leaders Islington Reservists Royal and employers Gun Salute • 11th – Launch of WW1: A Soldier’s Tale with Wandsworth Council and DNA in Battersea (featured on British Chambers of Commerce ITN London News) – see page 11 Conference • 11th – Reception for Reservists at the Mansion House 6 Warship Tours for civilian employers • 11th/12th – Employers hosted at Beating Retreat on Horse Guards Parade Business Boot Camp • 17th – First scoping meeting with The Prince’s Trust to enable the delivery of Army supported programmes 7 Skills Training with the Army • 24th – Armed Forces Day flag raising events at City Hall and the Guildhall Reserve • 24th – Lord Mayor’s Defence and Security Lecture in the Mansion House, given by the Home Secretary 8 600 Squadron reign at Altcar The Kemp Dirk Trophy • 25th – Uniform to Work Day Art in Action • 28th – A solemn Drumhead Service of Remembrance for those who volunteered to serve in the First World War with a linked YOU event at Burton Court. The Presentation of ‘Stepping Forward’ 9 HAC at the Six Nations to HM The Queen followed by a Medal Presentations by Honorary Royal Colonels to Reservists. First fully-integrated Reserve Unit HAC Open Day success As you can see, we remain busy actively engaging various communities, striving to promote and serve the Armed Forces, specifically the Reserves and Cadets in all that we do. 10 Exercise Bovianic Depths Changes to Reservist Mobilisation Looking forward, progress is being made across the estate with regards to accessing funding to meet today’s needs and developing Statements of Need to meet the requirements of the 2020 Basing Plan. 11 Bringing WW1 to Life An ongoing review of the RFCAs will look at how we evolve to deliver the Volunteer Estate in more of a 12 Armed Forces Day ‘Next Generation Estate Contract’ environment as we await the advent of the Defence Infrastructure 14 RN/US NAVY Exchange Organisation’s commercial partner. Outstanding Service Award HMS WILDFIRE Fire and Rescue Training NEW DEFENCE RELATIONSHIP 15 RMR Deliver the Boat Race Trophy The new Defence Relationship Management (DRM) organisation is now established RMR Live Open Day at the Council of RFCAs and will achieve full operating capability by April 2015. 16 Operation Pitchpole flood relief This new interface between business and Defence is currently working with 14 Training with The Rifles large national employers across the whole range of Defence personnel needs. 17 Success on the Slopes – Winter As well as Reservists, the DRM will talk to employers about the needs of Service Expeditions Leavers; Wounded, Injured and Sick personnel; employment for military spouses 18 Mascots and Matches for and support for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers. Boxing Club Exercise Caribbean Wings Mark Richards, the Regional SaBRE Campaign Director for London, left us in June to take up a new LONDONS prepare for Pairing position as Senior Account Manager within DRM. He has responsibility for a number of large employers including BAE Systems, Royal Mail, Marks and Spencer and Sainsbury’s. We wish Mark RLC Reservists Skill at Arms 19 all the best in his new role and look forward to continuing to work closely with him. 151 Regt Return from Afghanistan The SaBRE campaign will continue to provide advice and support to employers of Reservists on a Army Reservists transform 20 regional basis and we are re-organising our structure to meet the regional delivery requirements as public space well as recruiting for a new Employer Relations Manager for London. Watch this space! Traditional Recruiting in the City Climbing Peru’s highest mountain We always welcome feedback about London Bridge and Cadet London Bridge, so if you have any comments or suggestions please contact us. Equally if you would like to submit an article for forthcoming issues of Front Cover: Field Marshal Sir John Chapple presents HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh either newsletter please email it to: [email protected] or call 020 7384 4667 for more information. with a copy of ‘Stepping Forward’, a tribute to the Volunteer Military Reservists of Greater London, at the Royal Hospital Chelsea on 28 June 2014. The best article in either publication will receive £100. The star article for this issue can be found on p10.
2 LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT
In a new feature, each month we will profile a member of GL RFCA staff. Who better to start with than Nick Summers, one of our longest serving member of staff?
Nick Summers BSc FRICS FBEng, Director of Estates and Commercial Lettings, has been with GL RFCA almost 30 years. An architect before he re-trained as a chartered surveyor, Nick joined in 1986 as Sector Surveyor for West London.
His role involves ‘a bit of everything’. “I have 11 staff and we are involved in all areas of the Association. There is no point in the Reserves or Cadets trying to recruit or retain members if their buildings are not fit for purpose. Over the years the organisation has changed significantly; 30 REFURBISHED HMS PRESIDENT years ago emphasis on and funding for compliance was minimal. Where appropriate, we have now downsized, UNVEILED BY THE DUKE OF YORK rationalised and modernised the portfolio. The main emphasis now is on a safe and compliant estate. I have His Royal Highness The Duke of York was at the heart also become more focused on the Cadet side of life.” of HMS PRESIDENT’s re-dedication ceremony in April. “My role is broad so it is difficult to identify one specific As part of the Government’s policy to grow and sustain the thing when answering what I enjoy most. I currently enjoy country’s reserve forces, the RNR unit, home to more than 230 the challenge of seeking out funding. I have discovered it reservists, has recently benefitted from a major refurbishment. is quite an art to find out which department has money The work will bolster efforts to attract the highest calibre of which we can access. The satisfaction being that when you recruits who will ultimately serve alongside their regular do, coupled with the lettings income my team generates, counterparts in the Royal Navy. we are able to create a building that a Reservist or Cadet can be proud to say they train there. The highlights of my At the ceremony, HMS PRESIDENT received the great honour of career have been the major projects I have undertaken, being awarded a unit commendation in recognition of the ship’s including building and refurbishing Reserve and Cadet company’s support to the Royal Navy over the last three years and centres that create a better training experience for those its overall hard work and commitment. This rare commendation who use the spaces.” was awarded by Rear Admiral Chris Hockley, Flag Officer Reserves and Regional Forces. New buildings Nick has been involved in or overseen include Finsbury Barracks (HAC), Army Reserve Centres in Other significant highlights of the evening included a Royal Marines Sutton, (151 Regiment RLC); Southall, (151 Regiment band beating retreat, a Royal Naval Reserve guard of honour RLC); Uxbridge (71 Signal Regiment) and Cornwell VC inspected by HRH The Duke of York and the formal lowering of Cadet Centre in East Ham – the first tri-service Cadet the white ensign during the ceremonial sunset. Centre in the country! “I get a buzz when I look at the big projects that I’ve managed, I see myself as a bit of a property doctor or pathologist!” Nick lives in Wimbledon with his wife and has a 27 year old daughter and 25 year old son. His hobbies include golf, shooting and scuba diving; he adds that he doesn’t like to read in his spare time because he does enough of that at work!
Nick’s latest project has been a complete refurbishment of HMS PRESIDENT
LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 3 SaBRE NEWS
SaBRE (Supporting Britain’s Reservists and Employers) Contact London SaBRE Campaign Secretary, Emma Bass, is a Ministry of Defence campaign, which provides through any of the channels listed below: support to members of the Reserve Forces and Fulham House, 87 Fulham High Street, LONDON SW6 3JS their employers: Tel: 020 7384 4678 Fax: 020 7384 4664 • We show and tell employers about the transferable skills their Email: [email protected] Reservists gain through their service in the Reserve Forces. • We help Reservists negotiate additional or flexible time off to If you would like to register your organisation’s support for the Reserve Forces and receive a SaBRE certificate in attend annual camp and courses. recognition of your support, please contact Emma Bass. • We assist both employers and Reservists in understanding the mobilisation process and making claims for financial assistance. You can also call the FREEPHONE national Helpline on 0800 389 5459 or visit the SaBRE website at www.sabre.mod.uk • We give recognition to employers who support their Reservists.
NHS PROFESSIONALS THANKED FOR THEIR SUPPORT London NHS professionals attended a special employer event organised by 256 (City of London) Field Hospital at their Headquarters in Kennington.
The Commanding Officer, Colonel Liz Coles, herself a Reservist working for Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, outlined the role of the Field Hospital and other unit members talked about their experiences including their time served in Afghanistan. Susan Lyons, Divisional Director of Operations Transplantation and Specialist Services from the Royal Free Hospital, employs Lieutenant Colonel David Patch, a consultant specialising in liver transplants. Susan explained “Of course, L-R: Colonel Liz Coles presents Alex Phillips, Matron Neonatal at we all worry for his safety when David is away but the three months do Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust with a SaBRE pass very quickly. David has definitely benefitted from the wide variety Certificate to mark the Trust’s support of the Reserve Forces, in of military medical training that his tours of Afghanistan have provided. particular Lieutenant Marie Richter (Professional Development Couple that with his own personal growth and development from being Nurse, Neonatal, GSTT) an Army Reservist and we as a team have benefited too!”
BIG BREAKFAST FOR THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Building on initiatives to support and engage with the local community, members of 106 Regiment Royal Artillery, based in Grove Park, invited the Lewisham Chamber of Commerce to hold their monthly breakfast meeting at their Army Reserve Centre in February.
The Regimental Recruiting Officer, Captain Colin McQuillan, addressed the group, saying “Our Reservists are soldiers but also civilians, so not only do we have responsibility for them, we also support their employers and their families.” He added, “We are currently running ‘Personal Development Day’ courses here at Grove Park, which are proving really beneficial for anyone who wants to do something a bit different, perhaps learn something new and also find out about how we train our Reserves.”
In true Army tradition, a full English breakfast was then served in the Officers’ Mess!
4 LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 SaBRE NEWS
NEW EMPLOYER RECOGNITION SCHEME LAUNCHED The MOD’s new Employer Recognition Scheme (www.ers.sabre.mod.uk) was launched at a reception at 10 Downing Street in July.
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) was one of ten recipients of the new Gold Award, which recognises employers who proactively advocate and support Defence, communicating their commitment both internally to member of Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps, as well as an employees and externally to the wider community. Gold Environmental Public Health Scientist for Public Health England. Award holders must also demonstrate significant support Dr Carter said: “This recognition is a great honour for the RCN and our for Reservists, enabling them to fulfil their annual training employees who are associated with the Armed Forces. The Armed Forces and mobilisation commitments. depend on the vital and selfless work of Reservists and they in turn rely on Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive and General Secretary of flexible employers who understand the importance of this work. There are the RCN, attended the launch along with Captain Anna many nursing staff involved in the Armed Forces and the RCN is keen to do Crossley of 256 (City of London) Field Hospital. Anna is a all it can to support them.”
ISLINGTON RESERVISTS Islington Army Reservists’ employers and local dignitaries were given the exclusive opportunity to observe a Royal Gun Salute HONOUR THE QUEEN’S in honour of HM The Queen’s accession to the throne. Army ACCESSION TO THE THRONE Reservists from the HAC fired the Gun Salute at the Tower of London on 6 February.
Guests included the Mayor of Islington, Councillor Barry Edwards; Councillor Gary Poole and the Deputy Lieutenant for Islington, Dr Charles Goodson- Wickes, plus key figures from Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and Apples Operational Support Limited. Councillor Edwards said “In spite of the torrential rain it proved to be an unforgettable experience – it was a privilege to be in the company of such dedicated servicemen and women who perform these ceremonial duties in conjunction with their soldiering skills, all alongside their civilian occupations.”
LONDON RESERVISTS MAN STAND AT BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE CONFERENCE Reservists and staff from all three Services, the MOD and the new Defence Relationship Management team manned a new GL RFCA commissioned tri-Service stand at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) annual conference at the QE2 Centre on 1 April.
The aim was to raise awareness with SMEs of the benefits of employing Reservists. The Secretary of State for Defence gave the Conference’s closing speech with a call to arms for BCC members to support Reservists in their businesses and assist in the current recruiting drive by allowing recruiting activity in the workplace.
LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 5 SaBRE NEWS
WARSHIP TOURS FOR CIVILIAN COMPANIES Various London Organisations were invited as guests of GL RFCA and SaBRE to tour two of the Royal Navy Warships. Representatives from 17 employers visited HMS ARGYLL and 11 employers, HMS BULWARK.
Following an extensive refit, HMS ARGYLL (right) is now one of the most up-to-date and capable frigates in the Fleet whilst HMS BULWARK (below) is the Royal Navy’s Flagship – in Greenwich as part of the celebrations to mark the 350th anniversary of the Royal Marines. The members of both ships hosted the events along with HMS PRESIDENT and HMS WILDFIRE. The employers were given presentations on the capabilities of the ships and the role that Reserves play in supporting the Royal Navy.
BUSINESS BOOT CAMP Keen to make their mark in Ewell, members of 135 Geographic Squadron RE hosted a Business Boot Camp for the Epsom & Ewell Business Partnership. Over 30 local business men and women came along to the Army Reserve Centre for their first networking event of 2014.
Lieutenant Colonel Rolf Kurth, responsible for the Army’s ‘Employer Engagement’ in London, gave a brief presentation to the group, and said “This evening has been a fantastic opportunity to meet the owners of so many of the small businesses that are the backbone of this country, and for whom so many Army Reservists work in their The evening finished with a big bang as members of the group were invited to test their shooting day-jobs. We completely understand that we are ‘sharing’ our people with their civilian skills at the Squadron’s indoor firing range. employers, so opportunities like this to exchange ideas and learn from one another about how to best support and enable our people are of huge value.”
6 LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 SKILLS TRAINING WITH THE ARMY RESERVE
Army Reserve units from London have been offering a very hands-on taster course aimed at unemployed young adults, selected by JobCentre Plus, focusing on confidence, leadership and teamwork. The four-week, non-residential course is run by role-model Reservists with considerable support from The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London plus a work placement in a civilian job. The seven course participants were given an action-packed experience with the Army and The Army Reserve, learning life and work skills including first aid, health and safety and team building. One day was spent with the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery at Woolwich Barracks, where the young adults were shown the largest, most modern blacksmith’s forge in the British Army and worked with some of the 109 horses stabled there. For many this was the first time they had sat on or ridden a horse. At 217 Field Squadron (EOD) RE, the group were taught about health and safety at work and were then able to get their hands on some very powerful machines and tools. They were also shown how to use Counter IED equipment including Dragon Runners and were dressed in CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear) protective clothing.
Learning survival skills with 71 Signal Regiment was next, training for living out in the field, building bashers and wearing camouflage. On arrival at Whipps Cross Army Reserve Centre, the group were firstly shown some of the key communications equipment that the Regiment uses. This was followed by a fun ‘Minefield Task’ to test the group’s communication skills and leadership abilities… before moving to Epping Forest where the group really got a taste of living in the field! Another two days were spent with 151 Regiment RLC in Barnet where they worked in a field kitchen and took part in a ‘Ready Steady Cook’ challenge with rations for 10 men. They also learnt basic vehicle maintenance and how to drive and operate the fully automatic DROPS vehicles currently in use in Afghanistan. After the initial two weeks of training with the Reservists, the students took part in a week’s work experience ranging from retail and business administration to construction, organised by the College. In their final week, students came into College each day and practised interview techniques, effective job searches and essential job preparation.
Brigadier Richard Smith, Deputy Commander London District, said “This has been an excellent opportunity to help members of the community struggling to find employment in North London. It has enabled a closer working relationship with JobCentre Plus, The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London and Business in the Community; partnerships that the Army in London will carry forward and continue to develop.” He continued “The change in individuals has been significant. On the closing day of the course, having just completed mock job interviews, they were all engaging and confident, a total contrast from day one. They should be proud of what they have achieved.”
LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 7 600 SQUADRON
THE SQUADRON REIGNS SUPREME AT ALTCAR Exercise Altcar Challenge is the United Kingdom’s Reserve Forces Association’s annual military skills competition.
UK Reservists from all services are joined by international teams to compete in teams of four across a wide range of military skills, leadership and command challenges. These included Pistol Shooting, Firefighting and Battlefield First Aid. Standing on parade on the Sunday morning, the prize winners were called out and 600 Squadron Team 42 won best team for the pistol shoot and won top mixed team. The 600 Squadron team gave all they could on the day and in training – it certainly paid off.
THE KEMP DIRK The Kemp Dirk is awarded annually to the RAF Reserves unit which has achieved the best recruiting and retention results. This year it was awarded to 600 Squadron for achieving the largest net gain in personnel during 2013 – the Squadron received 250 applications of which 27 high quality personnel were attested.
A winning strategy behind the accelerated recruitment effort has been the increase in the number of Open Days offered to potential recruits. Events are held every 6 weeks with a rolling plan of alternating weekend, morning and evening presentations to ensure that shift workers and part-time or agency staff can attend. Retention during this year has been excellent – the broader, more dynamic training programme The Officer Commanding, Squadron Leader Steve Duddy, receives the Trophy from Air including a more proactive Force Development Commodore Charles Samson of 1 Group. element has been cited by many Squadron Eleven of the new attestees personnel as a key reason for continued service.
Her work will be on display at Cow Byre Art Gallery in Ruislip, 17-22 November ART IN ACTION Sara Waymount is Head of Classics at Heath Mount Preparatory School in Hertfordshire and is also an RAF Reservist with 600 Squadron.
Sarah has a passion for art and wanted to put her skills to use. So combining her RAF links and her artistic flair, she began her mission to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund. She firstly contacted Saracens Rugby Club who commissioned her to do some sketches and canvases and then in January flew to Afghanistan for nine days. She was attached to 617 Squadron (the Dambusters Squadron) during part of their disbandment and drawdown from Theatre and kept a diary of sketches from which she has produced canvases to exhibit and then sell.
8 LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 HONOURABLE ARTILLERY COMPANY
HAC GET ENGLAND FIRED UP MILITARY HELICOPTERS AND The HAC fired the starting gun on England’s Six Nations PARACHUTISTS DESCEND ON clash with Wales at Twickenham on Sunday 9 March. One blank cartridge was fired from a ceremonial Light THE CITY OF LONDON Gun before the home side went on to a 29-18 victory. In May, the HAC held its annual Open Evening giving the public an action-packed family-friendly experience. Highlights of the evening included a look inside a Chinook; the impressive arrival of a Merlin helicopter; a display by the 17th Century Pikemen and Musketeers; a lively WW1 re-enactment commemorating the first HAC soldiers (1,000 of them) who went to the Western Front in September 1914 and a demonstration of the HAC’s current Combat Role. The evening concluded with a spectacular parachute drop by the RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team who landed expertly on the drop zone in the Artillery Garden to rapturous applause from the spectators. HAC ARE FIRST FULLY- MANNED RESERVE UNIT IN FUTURE ARMY
The HAC paraded on the evening of Wednesday 23 April 2014 for the first time in its new formation. It is the first Army Reserve unit to be fully manned in accordance with the future, more integrated, requirements for the Reserve Forces. The changes will see the HAC evolve its current role as a patrols- based Surveillance and Target Acquisition Regiment to a broader role in ground-based information gathering. It will continue to work with its regular counterpart, 5th Regiment Royal Artillery, but the relationship will grow even closer – a Troop from 5 Regiment also formed up on parade as part of the new structure, the first time the HAC has integrated Regular British Army soldiers into its formation. A Regimental physical training session was held in the Artillery Garden followed by a parade with all members formed up in their new Squadrons.
LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 9 EXERCISE BOVIANIC DEPTHS When I first joined 135 Geographic Squadron RE two years ago, I never thought that I would have the opportunity to complete the next level of one of my favourite hobbies (BSAC Sports Diver at the Army Dive Club, Bovington), and be able to go scuba diving on Ascension Island for two weeks with a group of Regular serving Senior NCOs and Officers! Ascension Island is a mostly barren place, with sparse greenery and nothing but lava flows and reddy-brown cinder cones as far as the eye could see. As Ascension is a volcanic island, there are only a handful of easily accessible beaches and even fewer of these are suitable for shore entry diving due to the massive sea swells. So the use of RIBs was a key part of the expedition. Underwater, the ocean was crystal clear, with visibility out to a good 50m in all directions and £100 full of fish. The most common seen on every dive was the Blackfish, the aptly STAR nicknamed ‘Piranha of the South Atlantic’ (proven when they demolished a ARTICLE whole banana skin in 20 seconds), but we also saw Soldierfish, Moray Eels, Angelfish, Surgeonfish, Jacks, Trumpetfish and many others whilst swimming through caves and under blowholes. The night dives saw a completely different array of fish, including massive Crayfish (some of which were wrestled into net bags for our BBQ!), while the Blackfish slept, nestled into little crevices in the rocks. We completed a 30m dive at Red Rock for the depth progression part of the Sports Diver qualification and, where the rocks met the sandy sea floor, a Hawksbill Turtle was waiting to be spotted. As it swam off out into the blue, it made my trip to see such a graceful creature in the flesh! We were also able to reach Boatswain Bird Island where we saw some of the indigenous seabird species that can no longer nest on the mainland because rats steal their eggs, and we dived along the wall with dolphins. At first I was a little nervous at being the only Reservist on the trip, but I was very much treated as one of the team from day one. I would very much like to encourage any member of the Reserves to get more involved with Scuba Diving (or any other sport they enjoy!) within the Armed Forces and spread the word that these trips and opportunities are readily available for all active members of the Reserve and Regular Army, Navy or Air Force – but they can only go ahead if people get involved! Lance Corporal Jaiye Cordory (pictured top)
CHANGES TO RESERVIST MOBILISATION
Since 2003, over 26,000 Reservists have been when they will be required to accept the new powers. For those joining mobilised including for operations in Iraq and the Reserves, the new terms will automatically apply to those who attest Afghanistan. However, Reservists haven’t been able on or after 1 October 2014. to deploy on the full range of operations and tasks The consultation that informed the Future Reserves White Paper revealed that Regular Forces can. Reservists wanted to be able to play a wider role in Defence. These changes will realise that desire and give Reservists the opportunity to deploy on Reflecting the growing role of the Reserves and the importance the full range of tasks and operations both at home and abroad, although of establishing a more integrated whole force, from 1 October Reservists won’t be mobilised solely for training or industrial disputes. 2014 the law governing call-out powers (the Reserve Forces Act) Defence’s most senior Reservist, Major General John Crackett commented: will change to allow a Reservist to be called out (mobilised) for “These wider mobilisation powers are something that Reservists have any purpose for which a Regular can be used. For example, asked for. Whilst some tasks have historically been the preserve of presently Reserves cannot be called out for tasks like the Regulars this is changing under the Whole Force concept, bringing new Falklands Roulement Infantry Company, or for a range of opportunities for the Reserves. I would strongly encourage all serving Defence Engagement activity such as training teams. Reservists to move across to the new call-out powers so they are able to Serving Reservists will be fully briefed on the change in detail in take advantage of these opportunities.” the coming months and after 1 October they will be able to elect As well as the changes to call-out powers, Defence is making other changes to move over to the new terms. Serving Reservists who choose to the Reserve Forces as part of the package set out in the White Paper. not to move over will continue to serve under their current call-out A summary of all the changes can be found in 2014DIN01-104 and powers until they re-engage, extend their service or commission, further information will be provided in the coming weeks.
10 LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 SHARE THE LIFE OF A WW1 FAMILY
As the use of social media is such a large part of daily life today for both young and old, David Noble Associates, GL RFCA’s marketing and communications agency, and the London Borough of Wandsworth have seized the chance to work together with GL RFCA to launch an exciting initiative, utilising social media, called WW1: A Soldier’s Tale. This innovative, not-for-profit project brings to life the Great War by telling the story of Walter Carter, a Territorial Force soldier from Battersea, throughout WW1, seen through his eyes and those of his family and friends via the use of Facebook, Twitter and a blog.
Councillor Les McDonnell; The Mayor Wandsworth, Councillor Stuart Thom; Lieutenant Colonel Rupert Pim CO of The London Regiment; Hugh Purcell, Chief Executive of GL RFCA; David Noble, MD of David Noble Associates and Paul McCue, Assistant Director Leisure & Culture, Wandsworth Council
Debbie Wilkinson, Community Engagement Director Walter posts about his experiences on his social media at GL RFCA said “He is a fictional character but based pages around three times per week, in real time, and the entirely on historical fact. The project covers a huge range content covers much more than factual information about of events and themes both on the Front and at home. By the battlefield and the Home Front; it paints a picture of including links to additional materials such as podcasts, life at war and at home, referencing issues that are still videos and maps, it’s a wonderful educational resource for hugely important today such as the role of the Reserves, anyone interested in the First World War and life in Great the effect of the War on communities and families, the Britain at that time.” role of women, the treatment of the injured and more. In launching the project David Noble said: “The experiences Launched in June at the Army Reserve Centre in Battersea, of people both on the Front and at home have been very well the same place Walter would have attended for training documented through letters, diaries and other first-hand 100 years ago as a member of The London Regiment, accounts so we can get a comprehensive view of how people the project has attracted the attention of ITN London, felt, thought, behaved and spoke during that time. We think press and radio including the British Forces Broadcasting we have created a really engaging character who will bring Service, and will be promoted to schools as a learning WW1 alive.” resource at the start of the new term in September.
We encourage you to visit Walter’s social media pages and Like, Share and Retweet to help tell ‘A Soldier’s Tale’: www.facebook.com/WW1SoldiersTale www.twitter.com/WW1SoldiersTale www.WW1SoldiersTale.co.uk/blog
LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 11 ARMED FORCES DAY
RNR at Cutty Sark
CITY HALL RAISES FLAG TO HONOUR LONDON’S ARMED FORCES The Deputy Commander London District, Brigadier Richard Smith, joined The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson and members of the London Assembly, to honour the bravery and commitment of the Armed Forces in a special flag raising ceremony at City Hall. The Armed Forces Day flag outside City Hall was raised by two cadets to commemorate the sacrifices made by those serving the country. Service representatives included sailors from HMS PRESIDENT, soldiers from The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, Reservists from 151 Regiment, airmen from RAF Northolt and cadets from the City of London Academy and St Benedict’s School. Brigadier Smith said “Armed Forces Day provides an opportunity for the UK public to recognise the contribution that serving personnel, veterans and cadets make and have made to the nation. It’s also an opportunity for us to say thank you to the people of London. All 32 boroughs have signed the Armed Forces Community Covenant and we are grateful for the huge support we get.”
HMS PRESIDENT
12 LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 ARMED FORCES DAY
MILITARY PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE HONOURED Almost 400 personnel including reservists, cadets, veterans and their families have been honoured by a civic celebration in Glaziers’ Hall, London Bridge. The newly elected Mayor of Southwark, Councillor Sunil Chopra, hosted the occasion as part of the London Borough of Southwark’s Armed Forces Day celebrations and presented the Freedom of the London Borough of Southwark to The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment. The ceremony was followed by a gala concert featuring The Military Wives Choir (South and North London), The Memphis Belles (Andrews Sisters Tribute) and The Air Cadet Singers.
Employers on board HMS BULWARK Guildhall
RMR in Greenwich
600 Squadron 7 RIFLES
LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 13 HMS WILDFIRE
RN/US NAVY EXCHANGE
“You are joining the USS Nitze. You are going to have a blast!” was the email received by Lieutenant Commander Tim Williams of HMS WILDFIRE from his host for the exchange.
Tim, a member of the RNR Maritime Trade Operations branch, joined the USS Nitze, an Arleigh Burke Destroyer. His visit began with a tour of the bridge followed by the engineering department, the engine room and the location of the main compartments where The ship’s busy programme continued the following day with a he was able to meet the key personnel in the ship. Tim then joined Replenishment at Sea (RAS). The RAS was conducted with the USNS the bridge team for a gunnery exercise. He also witnessed the Robert E Perry on the port side. preparations to launch a Remotely Operated Vehicle Drone and visited the Command Information Centre to observe an underwater Tim said, “I was very fortunate to spend my time on the USS Nitze, it’s defence exercise. This was followed by Naval Gunfire Support (NGS a great ship and a great crew. It was a great opportunity to understand or ‘shore bombardment’). how our US allies work while adding to our naval experience.”
OUTSTANDING Lieutenant Commander Shah Esfahani received a Chief of the SERVICE General Staff’s Certificate for Outstanding Service from Air Vice Marshal Bob Judson, the Director Joint Warfare at Joint Forces Command. The presentation took place at Shah’s unit, the Defence Cultural Specialist Unit (DCSU) in Bedfordshire. Lt Cdr Esfahani joined the RNR in 1989 whilst working as a radiotherapy radiographer in hospital cancer units across the capital. He has been named HMS WILDFIRE’s ‘best officer’ for two years running. Since 2000, his language skills (fluent in Farsi and Dari with a very good grasp of Arabic) and cultural knowledge have been called upon constantly by the Armed Forces – as a linguist in Iraq in 2003 and chief linguist at the International Security Assistance Force HQ in Kabul for four years. More recently he served as the Royal Navy’s cultural adviser aboard HMS ALBION on Cougar 11 (the Royal Navy’s annual deployment to the Mediterranean and Gulf Region), on HMS DIAMOND on her maiden deployment in 2012 and on last year’s Cougar 13 with flagship HMS BULWARK.
HMS WILDFIRE SPEND A DAY WITH HERTS FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE In March, Reservists from HMS WILDFIRE joined firefighters from Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) for a joint training day focusing on Command, Leadership and Management at the training facility based in Watford.
The teams carried out several tasks which consisted of using lifting equipment to raise a car, an exercise on controlling water with pumps and dams, plus entering and navigating smoke-filled buildings complete with breathing apparatus. The day culminated with the most challenging exercise which involved the teams negotiating their way blindfolded around a darkened building, requiring trust and teamwork. Lieutenant Littman, the co-organiser of the event, commented “My initiative was about Royal Navy leadership training and connecting with the local civil community. Partnering with HFRS was an excellent opportunity to learn from each other and develop RNR personnel in a challenging environment. The recent cooperation between the military and the civilian authorities during this year’s flooding has shown how important this joint training can be.”
14 LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 ROYAL MARINES RESERVE
SAFE DELIVERY OF 2014 BOAT RACE TROPHY Marine James Yoxall, a member of Royal Marines Reserves (City of London) based at Southfields, joined his colleagues from RMR London to assist with the annual Oxford vs Cambridge boat race.
The team were tasked with ensuring safe passage of the trophy to the start of the boat race at Putney Bridge, as well as assisting with security and safety on the day. The contingency consisted of six Royal Marines safety boats and eighteen members of London’s Royal Marines Reserves. Marine Yoxall said, “This is the first time I have been part of the team to deliver the trophy, it was great to be part of the event.”
ROYAL MARINES RESERVE LIVE – CIVILIANS RISE TO THE CHALLENGE
Sixteen members of the public took part in a The potential recruits were also able to meet members of ‘Holding Troop’ recruiting Open Day at the RMR headquarters – recruits waiting for a date for their selection, and two Royal Marines in Southfields. waiting to go to their Phase 1 training course at the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre in Limpstone, Devon. Colour Sergeant ‘Freddie’ Laker, who ran the day, said “The guys who came along today have had the opportunity to take part Colour Sergeant Laker said, “I have been impressed with the quality of in some physical tests and find out what it is like to be a Royal all the visitors and I am hoping that they have enjoyed the day and will Marines Reservist.” The day included climbing and abseil training, take their applications to the next step.” Robert Howkins from Oxford, physical training and a close-quarter-combat demonstration, said “This is the first time I have ever done anything like this and I am plus displays of weapons. just loving it.”
LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 15 7 RIFLES
OPERATION PITCHPOLE FLOODING The flooding in the South and South West in the earlier part of the year resulted in 7 RIFLES being heavily involved with Operation PITCHPOLE – the provision of Military Aid to Civil Authorities. Forty members of the Company deployed to Salisbury Plain on a training exercise were redirected to take part in the flood relief work. Tasks included filling sandbags and working with other agencies knee deep in cold water to save properties from being overwhelmed by the floods. Overall, 7 RIFLES provided around three weeks’ of support and one of their main achievements was defending the Pingewood electricity substation, near Reading, from the water, ensuring that about 40,000 households remained with power during the devastating period.
TRAINING WITH THE RIFLES Corporal Michael Dixon and Private Eniola Adegbuyi (pictured below) from G Company in West Ham joined other members of 7 RIFLES for a tough weekend of off- road driver training at the Elmoor Driver Training Area. Private Adegbuyi said “The scariest bit was negotiating the really steep gradients and if you stall you have to reverse – in control all the way down and then re-negotiate it again.” Corporal Dixon added “Some of the course was pretty terrifying, but we are taught to trust the engine and gear box, and regulate our speed.”
F Company meantime were busy on Salisbury Plain spending two days living in the field and taking part in ambush and section attacks, recce patrols and weapon drills. Section Commander Corporal Chris Corby, from Acton (pictured), has been a member of F Company for 12 years with two tours of Afghanistan under his belt. He said, “These weekends give us a chance to get stuck in to some really good training as a team.”
16 LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 SUCCESS ON THE SLOPES
SNOWBOARDING SUCCESS The Army Snowboard Team continues to excel, securing an Overall Gold at the Inter-Services Snowboard Championship held in Meribel, France.
There were some exceptional individual performances including Corporal Sven Benavides from F Company 7 RIFLES, who competed in all 3 disciplines, got to the quarter finals in the Snowboarder Cross and won Bronze medals in both the Men’s Inter-Services Slopestyle and Men’s Open Slopestyle out of over 45 competitors.
IT’S ALL DOWNHILL They may have missed out on the Sochi Winter Olympics, but the training was almost as vigorous when nine Reservists took to the slopes in Bavaria.
The group were taking part in Exercise Cockney Media Moguls – the first Media Operations Group overseas Adventure Training exercise – with the aim of completing Ski Foundation training levels 1 and 2 (SF 1 and 2). The team was split into novice and intermediate groups and the first five days were taken up with training, working on technique HAC ON TOP FORM and – for the intermediate group – skiing off-piste. The more The HAC returned from Alpe D’huez and Serre Chevalier intrepid members of the team also made the short trip to the village of Oberjoch, where the slopes are floodlit for night skiing. in France with another clutch of awards from the Divisional Three members of the expedition completed SF1 and six level meeting for UK Regular and Reserve personnel. succeeded in gaining their SF2 qualifications. Exercise leader, This year the Regiment had particular success in the Alpine category Captain Andy Black said: “We’re very grateful for the funding when it topped all units from London District, was the top Reserve provided by GL RFCA, which enabled us to participate in this unit and came second in the overall championships – a tremendous first overseas training exercise for the Media Operations Group.” achievement. Taking most individual prizes was the Regiment’s Adjutant, Captain Rob Ronz, who took a second and two third prizes in individual Alpine races and, along with Captain Tim Bradshaw, Lance Sergeant Charlie Martin, Trooper Emily Handfield-Jones and Trooper Henry Neel, qualified for the Army National Championships. Captain Ronz, a Regular, added to his individual successes and thus qualified for the Army team to compete against the RN and the RAF at the Inter-Services Championships in Meribel. Whilst racing for the Army he came first in the downhill – his best ever performance.
EXERCISE SNOWFOX – A WINTER ADVENTURE In January, 13 members of the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry joined Reservists from four Yeomanry units on their annual snow-based adventure training at Val d’Isere, France.
The aim of the exercise was to challenge all participants both as individuals and as part of a team, encouraging everyone to step outside their comfort zones and improve their skills, regardless of ability. By the end of the exercise it was clear that this had been achieved, with everyone sharing their tales of triumph (and tumbles) on the slopes and expressing their enthusiasm to take part in 2015. With Amy Leyland winning the ladies racing and the rest of the team setting strong times, there was cause to celebrate as the FANY A team was placed second overall in the open team competition beating a number of strong all male teams, and also ended up a respectable 8th place in the orienteering competition.
LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 17 LONDON MILITARY BOXING CLUB – MASCOTS AND MATCHES
On 10 January, the London Military Boxing Club (formally the London District TA & Army Boxing Club) hosted a black tie dinner show at Oakley House in Bromley. The Club was the first in London to run a show under the new rules for boxing in England (visit www.aiba.org for details).
Guests arrived to the sight of two Irish Guardsmen in full ceremonial uniform with their Regimental Mascot, Irish Wolfhound ‘Domhnall’ and his handler, Drummer David Steed. There was also a display from the Drums and Pipes. After the bouts was an auction with the profits used to assist with funding a group of injured soldiers who went on a trip of a lifetime to Las Vegas in the spring, accompanied by former world champion Steve Collins.
The Exercise is orchestrated by the Joint Services Adventurous EXERCISE Sail Training Centre. The crews for the yacht come from all three CARIBBEAN WINGS Services, both Regular and Reserve, and change every two weeks allowing several hundred service men and women each year to 2013-14 experience the challenges of offshore sailing in an exotic and demanding environment. Leg 8 of this year’s Exercise was allocated to 217 Field Squadron (EOD) RE and so our 14 person crew was almost entirely made up of Reservists with little or no sailing experience. We had to learn to sail a highly complex ocean yacht (HMSTC Discovery) while working in shifts, through the night, in rough seas and a hot and humid climate that made working below decks a trial. This may not have been what we imagined when we signed up for two weeks of winter sun but we threw ourselves at the challenge of learning with enthusiasm. The route that ‘Discovery’ took during our expedition was largely picked by the crew, supplemented with the skipper’s local knowledge. The first voyages allowed us to explore the coast of St Lucia before heading south to the beautiful islands of Bequia and Union. We also managed a stop at the turtle reserve on Tobago Cays and to enjoy the jazz festival on Mustique as neighbours to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Mayor Murray Smith, Officer Commanding.
LONDONS PREPARE FOR PAIRING Soldiers from The London Regiment are the first to deploy on a UN peacekeeping mission in Cyprus fully integrated with their paired regular counterparts. Around 50 members of the LONDONS finalised their training alongside 1st Battalion Irish Guards under the watchful eyes of UN assessors ahead of a six-month tour in Cyprus on Op TOSCA. Intensive preparations included public order training for the worst-case scenario, should they need to de-escalate tensions during the 50th anniversary of Turkish intervention on the island. Commanding Officer of 1IG, Lieutenant Colonel Ed Bonas, who will He continued “I have absolute confidence in their abilities and they lead the Battlegroup said: “We are working to very clear objectives in a bring many qualities to the party. This closer working relationship fully integrated manner and, in theatre, there will be no difference in under Army 2020 will ensure the group is exceptionally tight-knit.” the way I task Irish Guards and LONDONS.”
18 LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 151 REGIMENT RLC
RLC RESERVISTS COMPETE IN INTERNATIONAL SKILL AT ARMS MEETING
Three members of 151 Regiment RLC, along with three others from 158 and 162 Regiments RLC, represented the Army Reserve at the 23rd International Armed Forces Skill at Arms Meeting hosted by the US National Guard at Camp Robinson, Little Rock, Arkansas in late April. The teams were from UK, Canada, The Netherlands and USA and included some of the finest military marksmen in the world. The soldiers were required to shoot long distance, engage in close quarter battle shoots, hit moving targets, falling plates and Combined Arms Enemy Barricade – demonstrating skills in rifle and pistol shooting under conditions that were exciting, challenging and physically demanding. The competition was fiercely contested, with some excellent individual and team results, Rear (L to R) Capt. Goffredi -162 Regt; Sgt Wells -151 Regt; Sgt Hazelton -158 Regt but in the end the UK Army Reserve Team came second to Front (L to R) Capt. Garbuja -158 Regt; Cpl Ingram and SSgt Howard -151 Regt the US National Guard.
151 REGIMENT RETURNS FROM AFGHANISTAN
22 soldiers serving with 151 Regiment RLC returned safely in March from their operational tour in Afghanistan. The Reservists, from the Regiment’s squadrons based in Barnet, Croydon, Ilford, Southall, Sutton and Warley, deployed in October 2013 for six months working alongside Regular Army colleagues from 27 Regiment RLC in support of the Theatre Logistic Group (TLG). The TLG provides the British Forces in Troop Commander, Lieutenant Sophie Lieutenant Colonel John Kerner, Afghanistan with everything from bullets, Hardman, serves with 210 (Sutton) Transport Commanding Officer of 151 Regiment, body armour and medical supplies to fuel, Squadron in Sutton and has been a Reservist said “I am incredibly proud to welcome rations, water and welfare facilities. The for six years. She said “This has been a Reservists from the Regiment back from supply line from the UK to the front line in valuable experience and has developed me as another successful tour of Afghanistan. Afghanistan is extremely complex and it is both an Officer and leader. My knowledge of Deployed as a formed Troop, and the job of the TLG to understand what the Army Logistics in general has increased commanded by a Reserve Officer, they Army needs and to ensure that what it immensely and I am proud to have been have operated as an essential part of an needs is delivered to the right place and part of the mission in Afghanistan and of the integrated Force; which is the model for at the right time. soldiers I commanded, who worked extremely the future.” hard in a very challenging environment.”
LONDON BRIDGE SUMMER 2014 19 101 (CITY OF LONDON) ENGINEER REGIMENT (EOD)
ARMY RESERVES GET DUG IN Army Reservists from Catford’s 221 Field Squadron spent a weekend in May at Peter Pan’s Park, transforming the area as part of the first phase of plans for a new pocket park. The 15 soldiers, who gave up their own time, were conducting their ‘221’s DIY SOS’ to help their local community. Captain Tom Roach, the unit’s Permanent Staff Admin Officer said “This is a huge project to create a fantastic new ‘pocket park’ for local children, from a neglected patch of land. The first phase this weekend was getting the ground ready, clearing all the rubbish and weeds from the bank of the stream to make the site ready for phase two.” He continued, “We started work promptly at 9am on Saturday morning and the soldiers went to work with a vengeance. It was a superb effort by all the volunteers, who had many visitors from the local community asking what was going on and offering drink and food for our soldiers. It is a very rewarding project that will look fantastic once it’s completed.”
BOMB DISPOSAL EXPERTS RECRUIT IN TRADITIONAL STYLE In scenes reminiscent of the 18th Century, soldiers marched within the walls of the City of London behind a beating drum, to raise awareness of the Regiment and to inspire potential recruits to join them. The soldiers, armed with information and flyers, set off at 9am from St Paul’s Cathedral along a route which saw them arrive in the Guildhall Yard less than an hour later. There they were greeted by the Lord Mayor of London, Alderman Fiona Woolf; Remembrancer, Paul Double; Chief Commoner, George Gillon and Masters from the Worshipful Companies of Constructors, Couriers, Lightmongers and Pattenmakers. Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Simon Stockley said nation’s capital from the threat of unexploded ordnance during the Blitz. “We are tremendously proud of our relationship with the City of The opportunity to recruit within the City is a strong reminder of our London, which was forged on the battlefields of World Wars I and history and the tremendous support that we continue to receive from the II, fighting alongside the London Divisions, while securing the City Institutions, but perhaps most importantly Londoners.”
Twelve soldiers from the Regiment went on a 30-day OUTWITING THE WEATHER expedition to climb Peru’s highest mountain, TO SUMMIT PERU’S HIGHEST Huascaran (6746m). The challenging weather conditions in the Western Andes – rain, VOLCANO snow and avalanche risk – experienced by the team during the first nine days forced them to change plans and to climb Peru’s highest volcano, Coropuna (6425m), instead. This involved negotiating crevasses, ice cliffs and steep snow slopes with very few tracks to follow. Reservist Sapper Matthew Dalley, successfully summited the volcano. He was lucky not to suffer from altitude sickness or struggle physically with the climb or lack of oxygen, but found the change of extreme temperatures much more challenging. He said, “The most enjoyable part of the expedition was the challenge itself. Every 10 metres I climbed seemed to produce 20 more metres of steeper slopes in front of me. It was mentally exhausting. It was at those times I had to dig deepest, telling myself I am going to push on and keep going. Reaching the top after such hard work was amazing, it was a fantastic experience and I really have the thirst for mountaineering now!”
Edited, designed and produced by DNA Ltd. www.dnal.co.uk