WINTER 2015/16 LONDON BRIDGE

The Journal of the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Greater London

IN THIS ISSUE: Gold and Silver Awards for London organisations Supporting the National Citizen Service Bomb Disposal – BD75 commemorations Reservist honoured by Sikh community Canoe Slalom World Championships

www.glrfca.org VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE Contents Hugh Purcell Chief Executive

> View from the Bridge Opportunity beckons as a result of Keeping ahead of the times will be 2 the good news that much of the 2015 possible if RFCAs also have the opportunity > London Poppy Day Strategic Defence and Security Review to reinvest – the Paterson Review made this 3 will redress the faults of the 2010 point – and an efficiency of 5% may be > Employer Engagement update Review and the Government’s achievable within our current manpower 4 > National League Signing commitment to sustain the NATO count, should such a figure be required. > Gun Salute for Chinese State Visit target of spending 2% of GDP on However, with reinvestment, any new 5 > Exercise SHARPE SHOOTER Defence. However, some capability model would probably look similar to what > Gold and Silver Awards enhancements will not be usable we have already, provided we remain both 6 until 2025 which, coupled with the imaginative and innovative. There is the > National Citizen Service requirement to deliver potential as an Arm’s Length Body to 7 > Veterans Party efficiencies over the period, can only operate more as a Regional Association > Lord Mayor’s Show increase the challenges faced by this and to make better use of our Professional 8 generation of military personnel. Support Staff to provide more services. > HAC Awards 10 > HAC Ex VAMBRACE HORIZON The carrot is reinvestment, but failure Examples are a cadet administrative to make demonstrable efficiencies will support model for the ACF and ATC, > 106 Regiment Slalom Champion undoubtedly be penalised by the building on the current 4Cs model and 11 > Supporting 16 Brigade Treasury. As some military programmes provision of ‘best value’ across London’s > 101 Regiment BD75 are currently unaffordable, we wait to estate by delivering work on the Regular 12 > Sapper Blanchard Challenge see where the pain will fall, especially estate as well; building on six current > DIY SOS as manpower ceilings will be uplifted projects – two earlier projects having 13 > Employer Reception slightly and Cadet Strategy 2020 has been delivered to specification, on time > 144 Para Med Sharing Best Practice been endorsed. and within budget, to the satisfaction of 14 > 103 REME Honing Field Skills the customer. > 151 Regiment Courier Awards 15 > Liaising with the US Army > Reservist receives Sikh Honour ••• Stop PRESS ••• Stop PRESS ••• > Lord Mayor honours Reservists

16 > Briefing for HR specialists Huge congratulations > 600 Squadron Marking Milestones to Major Henry Dowlen of RMR London who > 600 Squadron Parachute School was awarded ‘Best Reservist’ at the Sun’s 17 > Ex TITANIUM FALCON 15 ‘Millies’on 24 January. > 135 Geo Squadron in Mongolia 18 > OP TRIG MED London Bridge and Cadet London Bridge are published twice a year > T he LONDONS – in January and July. We always welcome feedback, so if you have any 19 Commemorate Loos comments or suggestions please contact us. Equally if you would like to > It’s a Wrap! submit an article for future issues of either newsletter, please email it by > Royal Yeomanry 1 December or 1 June to Mark Demery: 20 Ex COCKNEY TOUBKAL [email protected] or call 020 7384 4676 > 256 Field Hospital 21 Passing out from Sandhurst The best article in London Bridge submitted by a > 150 years in Braganza Street unit or individual will receive £100. The star 22 > 3 MI Battalion Ex COCKNEY SKADI £100 article for this issue can be found on page 20. > 7 RIFLES Display Webb Ellis Cup 23 > WW1 Soldier’s Tale update > Scotland – Coast to Coast 24 > Alternative Venues Front Cover Gunner Greg Pitt from 106 (Yeomanry) Regiment RA taking part in the 2015 Canoe Slalom World Championships for Team GB.

Edited, designed & produced by DNA Ltd. www.dnal.co.uk LONDON POPPY DAY

On London Poppy Day, as always, there was a splendid turn out of Reserves and Cadets collecting money at tube and mainline stations throughout London. 600 Squadron targeted British Airways headquarters at Waterside where ten Reservists joined with colleagues from British Airways and a party from RAF Halton to raise an amazing £13,000. The total collected by Armed Forces personnel in London – Regular and Reserve – plus Cadets and Veterans was £850,000.

LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 3 Niall Ahern – Employer Engagement update

Although we are now in 2016, it’s important to look back at an incredibly successful events programme in 2015. Just a few highlights have been selected for you in this edition of London Bridge. All of these wouldn’t have been possible without the Regular, Reservist and Cadet Instructors who turn up to help ensure these events go smoothly for employers. Thank you for all your work in 2015 and we Greater London RFCA has added its name to the growing list look forward to replicating a similar successful events programme of organisations that have signed up to the Armed Forces throughout 2016. Covenant. The Covenant was signed by GL RFCA’s Chairman, Colonel Marc Overton, a business leader and senior Army In addition to events, 2015 built on the success of the inaugural year Reservist and GL RFCA’s Chief Executive, Colonel Hugh Purcell. of the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). For the Greater London region, 18 organisations were successful in obtaining the prestigious Silver Award ranging from small charities couldn’t encompass. DRM continues to support Reservists and to international banks and professional bodies. Successful organisations employers in exactly the same way SaBRE did, but now includes were treated to an exclusive afternoon at RAF Northolt – see page 6. support to service leavers, Cadet Instructors, spousal employment On 14 January, 16 national Gold Award winners were announced and and the wounded, injured and sick. Throughout 2016, you will begin received their Award in Downing Street. Nominations for 2016 will be to see the MOD logo and brand being used more widely. open soon and we encourage all readers to nominate organisations large and small through the dedicated ERS website (details below). If you would like to get in touch about any of our events or defence initiatives please contact me via my email or the web link below. Finally, some of our readers will have heard that the SaBRE Campaign (Supporting Britain’s Reservists and Employers), which had been running for over 12 years, has now come to an end. In its place, Niall Ahern Defence Relationship Management (DRM) has now taken on defence Regional Employer Engagement Director for Greater London engagement initiatives. Having started in response to call outs during the OP TELIC & HERRICK years, defence employer engagement has Email: [email protected] now progressed and covers several other elements that SaBRE simply Web: www.gov.uk/mod/employer-relations A National League

The National League, which covers the fifth and sixth tiers of football in England and Wales, has joined an ever-growing list of leading organisations (over 800) in signing up to the Armed Forces Covenant. The event took place at Horse Guards with the Chairman, Brian Barwick, signing on behalf of The National League and Major John Crackett, Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff, signing on behalf of the Armed Forces. Further recognising the close link between the Army and the game of football, two players from Aldershot Town – the home of the – were present alongside soldiers from the London Irish Regiment and HQ London District. 100 years ago members of both these were among those soldiers who took a break from hostilities on the Western Front to play the ‘beautiful game’ – the WW1 Christmas Aldershot Town are the first football club to sign the Covenant with football match which has become an icon of how sport can transform others of the 68 member clubs planning to sign individual pledges at lives, even those enduring the horrors of war. the League’s half-yearly conference in Telford in January.

4 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 EMPLOYERS OBSERVE A ROYAL GUN SALUTE

Employers who support defence initiatives and who have an interest in China were given the exclusive opportunity to observe a Royal Gun Salute in honour of the State Visit by the President of The People’s Republic of China, Mr Xi Jinping and Madame Peng Liyuan. Soldiers from the King’s Troop Royal Horse fired a 41-Gun Salute in Green Park – just after midday on Tuesday 20 October. At the same time, Army Reserve Soldiers from the Honourable Artillery Company fired a They watched as the 68 soldiers with 86 horses from the King’s Troop Royal 41-Gun Salute at the Tower of London. Horse Artillery pulled the six guns into position for firing the 41-Gun Salute The guests, hosted by GL RFCA, included representatives from Alexander – which took place at eight minutes past the stroke of midday. This was the Hughes, Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, BNY Mellon, Bouygyes, CBRE, exact moment when the President of China was received by HM The Queen. ICBC Standard Bank, J.P.Morgan, London Chamber of Commerce and After the Salute, the guests saw the Royal procession return to Buckingham Industry, Marsh, Moody’s Investors Services and Standard Chartered Bank. Palace, escorted by the Mounted Regiment.

Metropolitan Police Team Scoops Top Prize

Ten teams from Greater London’s employers got The winning team from the Metropolitan Police Service joined together at the Honourable Artillery Company in runners-up from PwC with teams from Defence Relationship October to battle it out at 2015’s Exercise SHARPE Management, Financial Reporting Council, GL RFCA, J.P. Morgan, Moody’s Investor Services, Morgan Stanley, International Bankers SHOOTER. and UK Power Networks. Hosted by the City of London Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association, During the course of the evening each team visited 10 stands run SHARPE SHOOTER is the annual indoor military skills competition at by some of London’s Reserve Forces units. Scoring and guides which London organisations are given a chance to compete against were provided by the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry and the each other in a fun and friendly military environment. The aim of the University of London Officer Training Corps and the Silver event is to promote and generate awareness of the Volunteer Reserve Salvers, for the winners and runners-up, were kindly provided by Forces among London employers, many of which have employees The Worshipful Company of International Bankers. serving as Reservists and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers.

LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 5 Prime Minister thanks employers for supporting the Armed Forces

On Thursday 14 January, the wider community. They have introduced HR Network’ which provides invaluable guidance to Defence Secretary, Michael Fallon, policies to encourage the recruitment of Armed those transitioning out of the Forces and the veterans recognised employers who provide Forces personnel, spouses and veterans, and and reservists employed throughout the firm. they enable Reservists to fulfil their annual outstanding support to the Armed Defence Secretary, Michael Fallon, said “Support training commitments or support them during from these organisations is making a real Forces and presented Gold Awards mobilisation. to the winners of the Ministry of difference to our Armed Forces community. They This year the Gold Awards focused on are ensuring that the men and women who have Defence’s Employer Recognition commitments to employ Reservists, veterans, done and continue to do so much for our nation Scheme (ERS). These organisations and Forces family members. The winners from are treated fairly. Whether allowing Reservists the later met the Prime Minister at London were: Deloitte, J.P. Morgan and PwC. time to train, providing jobs or supporting veterans No.10 Downing Street. J.P. Morgan run a market-leading Ex-Military and spouses, these companies embody what the Internship Programme to help service leavers of Armed Forces Covenant is about. I am delighted to Businesses who hold ERS Gold Awards proactively all ranks transition into successful careers in the thank them for their unwavering support.’’ advocate and support the Armed Forces community, private sector, whilst PwC have created a ‘Military both internally to employees and externally to the

London companies receive the Silver Award

Reservists additional leave to attend training; advertising jobs to Service Leavers; offering work placements or interviews to veterans and encouraging staff to join the Reserve Forces or to become a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer. Presenting the awards on behalf of the three Services were Commodore Andrew Jameson, Commander Maritime Reserves, Major General Edward Smyth-Osborne, Commanding London District and Air Commodore Dom Toriati, Air Commodore Air Staff. The companies presented with Silver Awards 18 London-based businesses were sector excellence supporting the Armed Forces. were: AECOM, Amey, ATOS, BNY Mellon, invited by the Ministry of Defence to It is really important for Reservists to know they Bouygues, Brent Council, Department for Work RAF Northolt to receive a Silver Award have supportive employers, and for Service and Pensions, Domestic and General, HMRC, spouses and veterans to know that they too KPMG, Kuehne + Nagel, Metropolitan Police in recognition of their outstanding have the support of their employers.” Service, Network Rail, Royal Free Hospital, SAAB, support to Defence. The London Vape Company, The Warrior The 18 companies receiving the Silver Award all Programme and Triforce Recruitment. Julian Brazier MP, Minister for Reserves, welcomed employ Reservists and have actively demonstrated the employers and said: “It is wonderful to see so their support for Defence personnel. Some of the The event was organised by GL RFCA with many organisations representing private and public ways companies can do this include offering support from RAF Northolt.

6 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 SUPPORTING THE NATIONAL CITIZEN SERVICE

The National Citizen Service (NCS) is a once in a lifetime part residential experience open to all 16 to 17 year olds across England and . The programme helps young people build skills for work and life while taking on exciting challenges, making new friends and contributing to their community.

Groups of students taking part in the NCS had the opportunity to visit Reserve units in Greater London. A group from Croydon went to 151 Regiment RLC where they were introduced to a professional military environment and met officers and soldiers from the Regiment as well as seeing some work as a team – very much the qualities sought around a social action project; to raise of the vehicles they use. The students also after by the Army.” awareness of homeless youths and, healthy eating on a budget. presented a social action project to a panel Another group from Bromley went to 265 (Home from the Regiment. Counties) Air Assault Battery, 106 (Yeomanry) Six groups of young people from Tower Captain Derek Gregory from 151 Regiment, Regiment based at Grove Park. Hamlets were hosted by HMS PRESIDENT. who helped co-ordinate the Croydon visit, As well as having a tour of the missile training The groups had to give a ‘Dragons Den’ style said, “The group had a well thought-out plan facilities, gyms, vehicles and specialist presentation on a social action project to a and delivered their presentation professionally. equipment, the students were given presentations panel of Naval staff and were given a tour of Collectively, the group had a constructive on the values and standards of the British Army the facilities at the Naval base, where they answer to every thought process challenged which acted as a point of reference for an met personnel from Naval Regional Command, by the military panel. The exercise clearly interactive workshop on the qualities of an the University of London Royal Naval Unit, demonstrated the group’s ability to plan and employee. They also presented a campaign idea Sea Cadets and the Royal Naval Reserve.

Royal Yeomanry Veterans Christmas Party

Army Reserves from The Royal Colonel (Ret’d) Ian McRobbie DL, the Deputy and had to have special permission from her Yeomanry and 150 Recovery Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Wayne Lawlor and parents. She said “I didn’t have to go, I didn’t even Company (REME), based at Mitcham Councillor Emily Benn, Croydon Council’s Armed have to join up but I was so proud of my country, I Road Barracks in Croydon, hosted a Forces Champion. felt I had to do it.” Daphne spent time in France, Holland, and Belgium where she Daphne Clarke, 94 (above), accompanied by her group of Second World War and experienced dreadful conditions including a bitterly sister Pauline Youthed, enjoyed the opportunity Korean War veterans plus others from cold winter in Brussels, staying in the unheated to meet up with some old comrades and share former Gestapo Headquarters, where she and many the Royal British Legion at a special stories and reminisce about the old times. others contracted pneumonia. Even though she Christmas party. Daphne, probably the only remaining female was offered repatriation, she refused. Daphne wrote survivor to have served in Normandy on D-Day, The guests were treated to festive fayre with Christmas many letters home which are now kept at the was a secretary with 21 Army Group under Carols and military music played by The Band of Imperial War Museum and are available for anyone Montgomery. Originally from Upper Norwood, the Royal Yeomanry. Other attendees included who would like to read about her experiences. the Representative Deputy Lieutenant for Croydon, she was too young to enlist at the age of 19

LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 7 LORD MAYOR’S SHOW

The Lord Mayor’s Show can trace its history back to the The original Lord Mayor’s journey was always taken by river. The new sealing of the Magna Carta when King John agreed that Lord Mayor, Alderman Lord Mountevans, celebrated that history by the City of London could have its own Lord Mayor travelling to the City in a splendid flotilla of traditional Thames barges provided he swear allegiance to the Monarch and ‘show’ and small boats accompanied by Sea Cadets. himself to the people. Tower Bridge opened in salute and the new Lord Mayor then alighted at HMS PRESIDENT to be greeted by the Commanding Officer, To celebrate the 800th anniversary of the Lord Mayor’s Commander John Herriman, before inspecting the Guard of Honour. Show, more than 7,000 people, 173 horses, 140 vehicles, He subsequently met AB Dawid Wozniak from the City of London SCC marching bands and floats representing school children, (HMS ), who is a Lord Mayor’s Cadet for 2015/2016, before businesses, Livery Companies and community groups participating in the traditional rum ceremony “up spirits”. paraded from Mansion House to the Royal Courts of 101 (City of London) Engineer Regiment (EOD) formed the Guard of Justice and back to Mansion House via Victoria Honour for the Parade, ahead of which the Lord Mayor presented the Embankment. The world famous St Mary-le-Bow Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Dickie Hawkins, with a church bells rang out a special 800-change at noon. ceremonial Scroll granting the Regiment ‘City Privileged Regiment’ status.

8 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 9 THE HONOURABLE ARTILLERY COMPANY

In July last year, in front of friends and family, the also a trained musician, teaching music and playing in an Minister for Reserves, Julian Brazier MP, presented orchestra in Lincolnshire. Matt was deployed as part of the Band Operational Service Medals (OSMs) to members of of the Royal Armoured Corps. One of the highlights of his tour the HAC who had served on Operations in , was to take part in the last Remembrance Day service held in (Op HERRICK) and during the Ebola crisis (Op GRITROCK). Khandahar, attended by Prince Harry. In addition, Volunteer Reserve Service Medals (VRSMs) and Clasps Another recipient of the OSM was Lieutenant Nic Clark (pictured were presented to five HAC soldiers who had completed 10 or 7th from right) who served on Op GRITROCK, working alongside more year’s loyal service. volunteers from all over the world during the Ebola crisis in Sierra Leone. He deployed with the Regular Army working as part of a One of the recipients of the OSM was Lance Sergeant Matt Quick mobile team that assessed the state of Ebola screening (pictured 5th from left), the only Army Reserve Musician to have checkpoints along the Guinea/Sierra Leone border. served on Op HERRICK. He is an infantryman with the HAC but

communications specialists. The second, Enabling Troop, brings together all the specialist logistics posts from across the HAC Squadrons into a centre of excellence to provide agile and robust sustainment to the Regiment. The Regiment also conducted a guns course, run by their Regular counterparts at 7 PARA RHA, which qualified soldiers from the HAC’s newly-formed PARA Gun Troop for Light Gun STRIKE level 2. This exercise was significant in many ways. The training took place almost exclusively on private land and included participation from no less than 18 external military units and civilian agencies. There was significant cooperation with the civilian authorities including the Isle of Wight Council and emergency services. The civilian population were also engaged with from the start by the HAC info-ops team establishing connections to the Island media outlets and Civil-Military Co-operation (CIMIC) teams conducting door-to-door engagement with local communities. The Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Jim Doherty, said: “Exercise The HAC conducted its Annual Training Period with VAMBRACE HORIZON was an impressive and challenging undertaking, Exercise VAMBRACE HORIZON, a test of its developing about which the HAC should be rightly proud. The Exercise has set the Surveillance and Target Acquisition (STA) skills, on standard for unit-delivered training in the Army Reserve (and in fact the the Isle of Wight. The Exercise was designed to test Army in general) and it continues to demonstrate how the HAC is the the concept of the HAC’s ongoing role and assess the exemplar when it comes to unit activity and, therefore, recruiting, retention performance of sub-units, some of which had only and the other fringe things that are crucial to continued success.” recently been formed. Having simulated a real overseas operation by travelling on an MC-130 Hercules from RAF Mildenhall to the South Coast, courtesy of the Special Operations Wing of the US Air Force, the Regiment spent two days training for the exercise at Thorney Island before moving across the Solent. Curious residents on the Isle of Wight lifted their eyes skywards as the first move of US Air Force CV-22 Osprey helicopters flew overhead, while the main elements of the task force landed at Yarmouth aboard mexeflotes from the military port at Marchwood. The exercise then moved into distinct operational phases as the Regiment tested the STA skills and those of the supporting elements that have been General Sir Richard Barrons, Commander Joint Forces Command developed since its re-role last year. The first, Communications and and also and President of the HAC, addresses Information Systems (CIS) Troop, has given the Regiment its own members of Enabling Troop

10 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2013 2015/16 106 (YEOMANRY) REGIMENT RA

Slalom Champion

Gunner Greg Pitt, an Army Reservist with 106 (Yeomanry) Slalom Athlete (2010-2015); previously under 23 level for GB, Junior Regiment Royal Artillery, took part in the Canoe Slalom World Bronze Medallist and European Silver Medallist. He just missed out World Championships at the Lee Valley Olympic Course on qualifying for Rio and so his current focus is on Tokyo and being in September for Team GB. His canoe was funded by the competitive on the championship circuit. Regiment with assistance from GL RFCA. Team GB won On the military side, in July 2015 Gunner Pitt passed Bravo – the 2-week the Bronze Medal in the Men’s C2x3 SENIOR. Phase One course designed to be the climax of an Army Reserve recruit’s training – and is continuing with trade training and promotional courses, Greg has an impressive track record having previously competed in four making use of the facilities and opportunities offered by the Army, both World and seven European Championships, consistently winning team Regular and Reserve. medals – top 15 in all Championships Individual Class; five times Senior GB

Supporting 16 Air Assault Brigade

265 (Home Counties) Air Assault Battery, part of mentally and physically challenging All Arms Pre-Parachute Selection 106 Regiment, now wear the of the course – the first step towards earning the famous parachute wings and Parachute Regiment. becoming a fully qualified Airborne Gunner. 265 Battery is affiliated with Regular Army counterparts 12 (Minden) Addressing the Battery, Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Birch, Commanding Battery Royal Artillery of 12 Regiment Royal Artillery. The two units Officer 7 Parachute Regiment RHA, welcomed the members of 265 work together to support 16 Air Assault Brigade, the Army’s high Battery to 16 Air Assault Brigade. He said “The maroon beret signifies readiness rapid response force. As part of the closer affiliation between the link that exists between us, our relationship, history, capability and the two, there will be extra training and the opportunity for members of joint pride in what we do. It takes hard work to earn the right to wear 265 Battery, who are based in Grove Park, to secure a place on the the beret. I urge you to take the opportunity to get your wings.”

LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 11 101 (CITY OF LONDON) ENGINEER REGIMENT (EOD)

2015 marked 75 years of Bomb Disposal (BD75) and to commemorate the anniversary, a series of events took place, primarily to honour the fallen but also, to raise funds for three deserving charities: Blesma, Walking with the Wounded and The Benevolent Fund. Together with 33 Engineer Regiment, 101 Engineer Regiment set themselves a target of £75,000 which they have now more than exceeded. The events included a concert at Saffron Walden Hall hosted by The Corps Band and supported by the Wimbish Military Wives Choir and Jools Holland, the Regimental Honorary Colonel; also a charity boxing match, ‘Battle of Bethnal Green’ held in May; the Service of Remembrance at St Paul’s Cathedral in October and providing the Guard of Honour at the Lord Mayor’s Show in November. All these events provided veterans and serving officers and soldiers from both regiments many opportunities to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

The year culminated with 101 Engineer Regiment (EOD) being granted the very rare honour of ‘City Privileged Regiment’ status by the City of London which has been granted on only 10 prior occasions in the last 600 years.

Raising Funds in memory of Sapper Blanchard

Reservists from 221 Field Squadron Challenge. 2015’s charity, Walking with the Summing up this year’s challenge, Captain Tom (EOD) in Catford took part in their Wounded, was chosen by the CO of 101 Engineer Roach, Permanent Staff Administration Officer annual charity event in memory Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Dickie Hawkins and (PSAO) at the Catford Army Reserve Centre said is one of the charities that will benefit from BD75. “For the last five years I have had the privilege of of Sapper Will Blanchard, a fellow working with some truly outstanding Reserve The challenge was for two teams of six soldiers soldier killed in action in soldiers from our Squadron. They never fail to to carry a stretcher weighing 50kg over a 40 mile Afghanistan in October 2010. amaze me with their tenacity and appetite to keep route – which they achieved in 13 hours and 16 Will’s memory alive and strong. Each year they Sapper Blanchard was an outstanding Reserve minutes – an outstanding effort! Bewl Water conquer whatever task is set them with gusto and soldier and who is still much missed by all who Country Park in Kent were extremely supportive camaraderie. This year’s target was to raise £2,000, knew him. In Will’s memory, the Squadron started and provided use of the Egg Box Field, free of before the day began we’d already raised £2,100.” an annual challenge for charity – the Blanchard charge, for the Squadron to use as a base.

12 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 Army Reserves complete their own DIY SOS in Southwark

Army Reservists from Catford’s 221 He was bowled over when Captain Tom Roach Jeremiah said “The whole experience, from Field Squadron (EOD) spent a day proposed building a pathway to enable him to the first meeting with Captain Roach and the in Nunhead transforming the life access the road more easily. Ian Messenger, arrival of his team, has been so very of someone in need. Branch Manager of Buildbase in Peckham, humbling. This path will simply change my agreed to supply all the materials needed and life; that’s how much it means to me. I can’t The band of 18 soldiers gave up their time to delivered them for free. thank them enough for what they have done conduct their own ‘221’s DIY SOS’, to help a for me. Bless our Armed Forces.” Captain On the unseasonably warm November day, member of the local community, Jeremiah Roach added “Our Reserve soldiers continue there was a great community spirit. Neighbours Sheenan, an American who has lived in the UK to impress me with their generosity of time kindly laid on tea and cakes and let the for twenty-five years, and has Multiple Sclerosis. and professionalism. To be able to help soldiers use their facilities. The mother of one He uses both crutches and a wheelchair and Jeremiah was such a good feeling for us all of the Reservists also generously cooked a increasingly had difficulty getting to the main and the support of Buildbase and the local delicious lasagne to feed the hungry volunteers. road outside his house, some 40m away. community has been fantastic.”

Employer Event Army Reservists from 101 Engineer Regiment hosted an evening reception at HMS PRESIDENT in September to thank their employers for their support. Guests met local civic dignitaries, senior military officials and members of the Regiment who train in Catford and Bexley. Employers, including representatives from organisations which have received Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards for their support to the MOD through the Employer Recognition Scheme, were given demonstrations of specialised search and bomb disposal equipment used by the Reservists, many of whom have served overseas in both combat and humanitarian operations. The guests were also entertained by The Countess of Wessex’s String Orchestra, a 24-piece orchestra which is part of the Corps of Army Music and based at Woolwich Barracks.

LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 13 144 PARACHUTE MEDICAL SQUADRON Sharing Best Practice… …with Regular Counterparts

…and with the Royal Naval Reserve

Reservists with 144 Parachute 144 Parachute Medical Squadron and the Also present was Colonel Kevin Davies, Medical Squadron spent two weeks Royal Naval Reserve (RNR) Medical Branch who is President Designate of The in Gibraltar on a training exercise conducted a clinical study day in October at Interallied Confederation of Medical with 16 Medical Regiment. HMS PRESIDENT. Reserve Officers (CIOMR). As CIOMR is a truly tri-Service organisation, he was keen The aim was to learn and develop knowledge More than 100 soldiers, both Regular and to make contact with colleagues in the of Contingency Operations and humanitarian Reserve, took part in Exercise BARBARY SUN. RNR medical community in order to set relief response/medical HADRO (Humanitarian The training consisted of three phases including the conditions for the UK’s tenure of the and Disaster Relief Operations) in a tri-Service medical training, Role 1 validation – ensuring the Presidency. environment, in order to enhance Squadron Reservists are current and able to deploy on and RNR preparedness for potential future The event provided a great opportunity to operations with their Regular counterparts – requirements. foster relationships between Services – and finally some well-earned adventure training. Regular and Reserve – and doctors and 40 senior Reserve and Regular clinicians The medics are trained to provide battlefield nurses and will facilitate further clinical attended, including a Member of Parliament, advanced life support and during the course of training opportunities. Surgeon Commander Andrew Murrison MP the exercise were tested on their handling of a and the Clinical Director 16 Medical wide variety of simulated casualty scenarios. Regiment, Colonel Nigel Tai.

103 BATTALION REME REME Reserves hone their Field Skills 69 Army Reserves from 103 and validated over the fortnight as they carried Battalion Royal Electrical and out maintenance of armoured equipment. Mechanical Engineers (REME), They spent some of the time ‘in the field’, which has two new London-based away from garages and hangars, where they companies in Croydon and Barnet were tested on setting up a field workshop; and new platoons in Warley and vehicle engineering and maintenance; carrying out defensive position manoeuvres; Bexleyheath, spent their two-week CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological and annual exercise on . Nuclear) scenarios; casualty evacuation; They were supporting the Regular Army’s CIED (Counter Improvised Explosive Device) 4 Armoured Battalion REME, and were tested drills and resupply.

14 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 151 REGIMENT RLC

Army Reservist honoured at National Courier Awards

Private Claire Williams, a Reservist The event, which took place in October at the her role by undertaking a Recruiters Course and is with 562 (Southall) Transport Squadron Institute of Directors in Pall Mall, celebrated engaged in training new recruits who will one day RLC, was presented with an award for excellence from courier companies large and become Army Reserve drivers. She is involved in Heavy Vehicle License Excellence by small, regional and networked. all aspects of Squadron life, including running the Army Reserve Centre’s bar. Claire maintains a high Claire is a land and buildings surveyor in her the Minister of State for the Armed standard of fitness and was selected to represent civilian life. She joined the Squadron as a non- Forces, Penny Mordaunt MP, at the 151 Regiment RLC in the annual RLC Military Skills driver but completed her General Service (GS) 19th Gala National Courier Awards Competition. She was part of the winning Female driver qualifications just nine months later. An Team and the runners-up – out of the entire RLC – organised by the Institute of Couriers. outstanding soldier, she has demonstrated in the shooting. commitment to the Squadron above and beyond

151 Regiment cross the Atlantic to build relationships

Officers and soldiers from 151 projects. As well as practical exercises, the Regiment RLC have been taking every Reservists were also able to shadow National opportunity to expand upon their Guard counterparts and conduct a Battlefield Study of Little Big Horn as well as visiting Mount understanding of ‘the conceptual and Rushmore and Harney Peak. What struck them in moral components of fighting power’, particular was the warm welcome they received by engaging in liaison activities with from their military and civilian hosts. the US Army. On a reciprocal visit, 7 US Army Reserve and These began with 124 Squadron RLC leading National Guard personnel joined 562 Squadron in personnel on Exercise GOLDEN COYOTE in South the UK. The visitors travelled to training areas in Dakota – a Combat Support and Combat Service Aldershot and ranges in Lydd, before visiting 17 Support exercise involving mounted and Port & Maritime Regiment and RAF Odiham. They dismounted operations. The logistic component of also visited Stonehenge and HMS VICTORY and the exercise involved both military scenarios and HMS WARRIOR in Portsmouth, concluding with a other tasks, including delivering timber to Native trip to London which took in the Battle of Britain American reservation areas for use in community bunker in Uxbridge and The Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Army Reservist Honoured with Sikh Siropa Staff Sergeant John Rock from 151 Regiment RLC Team and has worked hard engaging with the was honoured by the local Sikh community in local community, building strong links with Southall with a ‘Siropa’ presented to him by organisations such as the Guru Nanak Sikh Sant Baba Amar Singh Ji in the presence of a Academy. On receiving the award he said, congregation of 10,000 at the Guru Nanak Sikh “I am extremely proud to be awarded this great Academy PARKASH 2015 event. The Sipora is a honour from the Sikh community. I have been garment of dress bestowed on someone as a mark privileged to have the opportunity through our of honour and acknowledgement of devotion. Staff outreach programmes to engage with local Sergeant Rock’s commitment to serving the communities, gaining understanding and communities was highlighted in both Punjabi and mutual respect by communicating the values English and broadcast to the Sikh community in and standards of the British Army.” the UK. He is part of the Regiment’s Outreach

LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 15 Lord Mayor of London Briefing the City’s Honours London’s Reservists HR Specialists More than 50 future business leaders from the City of London and beyond attended a Briefing Dinner at the Guildhall in July, hosted by the City of London Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association. One purpose of the event was to give HR Specialists from among the City’s businesses, institutions and organisations an understanding of what Reservists do for the country. The guests met with people who are in the Reserves or who train Cadets, to gain an insight into the value of the Reserve and Cadet experience. The former Lord Mayor of London, Alderman Alan The volunteer hosts, many of whom work in the City and manage their Yarrow, hosted a special reception at the Mansion business life with their Service activities, were able to explain to their House in September for London’s Reservists, their peer group what the City’s Reserves are up to particularly at a time of guests, partners and employers. As Lord Mayor, he change and growth in the Reserves. Guests were asked to provide an insight into their company’s policy on, or experience of, employing was also President of the City of London Reserve Reservists and were invited to contribute to the discussions on how Forces’ and Cadets’ Association and was accompanied mobilisation affects members of the Reserves and their employers. by the Chairman, Brigadier Alastair Bruce. The reception was held to pay tribute to members of all Reserve Forces Units with links to the City of London, who had either been mobilised or who were recommended by their Commanding Officers for exceptional service. One such Reservist was Corporal Rosie Dicks, an intensive care staff nurse, from 256 Field Hospital (pictured), who had recently returned from a six month tour in Sierra Leone, as a member of the British military and medical response to the Ebola crisis. London’s Reservists have consistently supported their Regular counterparts on humanitarian and peacekeeping missions.

600 (CITY OF LONDON) SQUADRON Marking two milestones at The House of Lords

October saw 600 (City of London) House of Lords available. The event was well participating in an inter-Service sport. He is Squadron RAF Reserves who are attended by serving and retired personnel. The pictured receiving the award from Group based at RAF Northolt mark the Guests of Honour included Group Captain Paul Captain Atkinson. milestone of 90 years as a unit. Atkinson from 1 Group, who spoke glowingly of the Squadron’s record, professionalism and The Squadron was formed in October 1925, achievements today. and since then an annual all-ranks dinner has The Squadron also marked another milestone: been organised which usually takes place at the Sergeant Derek Jelley, currently a trade Butchers’ Company Hall. The Company have coordinator on the Squadron, was among the sponsored the unit since it was reformed in first members of the RAF Reserve to be awarded 1999. This year the dinner was of such a ‘Blue’ since Reservists became eligible for the importance that the Honorary Air Commodore, award. Derek’s was a Sailing Blue presented for Viscount Trenchard, made the facilities at the

16 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 Parachute Training School

Corporal Laura Evans has just completed a two-year detachment with the Parachute Training School at RAF Brize Norton. While still dedicated to her civilian job as a Firefighter, she has used her spare time to work alongside regular RAF colleagues in flight operations management, building RAF experience around her civilian shift pattern. Laura learnt about the different types of parachutes used, the structure of the training courses, the locations of the numerous drop zones and much more. She had the opportunity to see how working in flight operations with the RAF brings everything together for world-class training. She even had the chance to go on two major exercises to the USA where she was able to contribute to the training of military parachutists in specialist skills, in all weathers and conditions. Laura said, “The experiences that I’ve gained from being a Reservist have been some of the best in my life. I never dreamed I would be in America sitting on the open ramp of a transport aircraft, watching the troops jump out over California during all hours of the day and night.” Wing Commander Andy Calame, Officer Commanding 600 Squadron said, “Corporal Evans has demonstrated by her professionalism what today’s part-time Reservists are able to contribute to the whole RAF, paving the way for future Reservists to follow her. The skills she has learnt in leadership and management will no doubt easily be used in her civilian career as well.”

Soaring with the Falcons

In late September, a team of intelligence picture for the Joint Forces Air Squadron team made up almost 10% of the staff handpicked Reservist officers and Component Headquarters (JFAC). who delivered the training. airmen joined Regular Air Force JFAC is the UK field-deployable Air Headquarters, Lieutenant Colonel Gavin O’Keefe, the Exercise colleagues as key components of one and is in the process of working up through Director, said, “600 Squadron provided a most of 2015’s most important Air Exercises. training and practice to be a front line asset for excellent team. The civilian skills that these NATO – deployable to any crisis anywhere in the Reservists brought greatly enriched the scenario Led by Squadron Leader Dwayne Dawson, the world within a matter of weeks. The team from and helped stretch those that they were training. Squadron Chief of Staff, 10 personnel joined the 600 Squadron had prepared a large portion of A brilliant contribution and I give many thanks.” training staff of Exercise TITANIUM FALCON 15. the exercise background and the fictional events They moved to the Defence College at Shrivenham to populate 10 days of crisis management for two weeks’ intense work in field conditions; training for the JFAC experts. The exercise was providing the enemy force and fictional the summit of months of work and the 600

LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 17 135 GEOGRAPHIC SQUADRON RE

Regular and Reserve geographers go mountaineering in Mongolia

Led by Captain James Smith, a team team summited a number of the peaks in the of nine men and one woman from Altai mountain ranges within the National Park. 42 Engineer Regiment (Geographic), One of the many successful summits for both based at RAF Wyton, went teams was the ascent of a 4000m peak, which marks the border between Mongolia, Russia and China. mountaineering in Mongolia last July. Two of these adventurers were from The expedition was a great success, and was the first that the British Army has carried out in that 135 Geographic Squadron, based part of the world. Adventurous training is hugely in Ewell. important to the Armed Forces which aims to Travelling by plane, 4x4, camel and foot, the team One of the main objectives of the exercise was to ‘promote enhanced operational capability through eventually reached the Tavan Bogd National Park familiarise the team with mountaineering controlled exposure to risk’. taking nearly seven days to get there. equipment, and educate them in summer and For 42 Engineer Regiment, this was one of the winter mountaineering techniques. For this the Establishing their base camp at 3000m above sea most ambitious expeditions planned to date, teams were split into two groups; one tackling the level, the team spent the following 18 days and it is hoped that similar expeditions will be glacier within the National Park, the other ascending learning mountaineering skills. conducted on a bi-annual basis. the surrounding mountains. During the trip the

TRIG MED 2015 OP TRIG MED 2015 In November, 135 Geographic Squadron RE deployed to Cyprus on Operation TRIG MED – the recce, reconstruction and re-survey of Sovereign Base Area (SBA) boundary pillars in support of the Sovereign Base Area Administration (SBAA). The task provided a detailed update on the condition of all boundary markers between the Republic of Cyprus and Turkish Cypriot Authorities. With four soldiers from 14 Geographic Squadron RE, a Plant Operator Mechanic from 521 Specialist Team RE and equipment support from 23 Para Engineer Regiment, the task was also a great opportunity to enable easier working environments. The second Despite a very busy schedule there were work with other members of the Corps of Royal phase of the Squadron deployment was in the opportunities for Adventurous Training, Engineers. Western Sovereign Base Area – a more rugged whether it was mountain biking or rock and rural environment. As each day finished a raft climbing, and small groups of Squadron During the first phase, the Squadron operated of recce reports were completed and given to the personnel were released to make the most within the Eastern Sovereign Base Area, working in Construction Team who started replacing the of the opportunities. The Squadron also close proximity to the UN Green Zone and the majority of damaged or missing boundary pillars spent a day together enjoying a selection of Turkish Controlled Area. Liaising with SBA Police with steel pillars set in concrete. Where a steel watersports and an eagerly anticipated party and Turkish Military Forces occasionally posed pillar was not suitable a small alloy disc was on the beach. challenges but good relationships were built to cemented in to position known as a flush marker.

18 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 THE LONDON REGIMENT

D Company Centenary Trip to Loos

To mark the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Loos, led by the Battalion Padre gave thanks for the sacrifice of those who had gone a major battle honour of the London Irish Rifles (LIR) before us and paid tribute to the unquenchable spirit of the LIR. and 12 other London Regiment battalions during WW1, The service reminded all present that the true cost of that war was not just a contingent of D Company (London Irish Rifles) from the lives of the soldiers lost, but the profound and lasting destruction meted out to the communities of the towns and villages in which it was fought. Camberwell took part in the commemorations organised by the London Irish Rifles Association and Following the service, a parade marched through the town during which the LIR band and their French counterparts provided a unique insight into the the town of Loos-en-Gohelle. marching variations of the nations. Dedication of a memorial to the LIR at The party picked me up en route from the London hospital where I work the town’s War Memorial and recognition of the ‘Mother of Loos’ followed, as a senior staff nurse and, travelling through the night, we arrived in before we ended at a reception in the town’s gymnasium. Arras in time for breakfast. With parade kit meticulously prepared, we set Sunday brought a Church Parade at a Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery out for the scene of our forebear’s famous exploits, resplendent where LIR men were buried, and later at the larger memorial to the LIR at Dud in No.2 dress, hackles bristling. Immediately catching the eye were two Corner. The ‘skirl’ of the pipes added a mournful air to proceedings and time enormous slag heaps, which were key objectives in the battle. These were for the Company and Association to reflect on the actions of our predecessors universally viewed with horror by today’s soldiers. Imagining the terrible a century before us. struggle of those troops in the equipment of that era set the tone for the commemorations. In Loos we assembled in the serene setting of the Lance Corporal Jonathan Elias, Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s cemetery. A moving service D Company, London Regiment It’s a Wrap!

With the power of social media in their sights, Reserves at The London Regiment tasked Sharp End Films with creating a dynamic three minute blockbuster that shows The London Regiment’s important role as an regiment. The movie, which was shot at Longmoor Training Camp, promotes the wide-ranging opportunities and roles that are available in the Army Reserve with sound bites from the part-time soldiers that have experienced them. One of those featured in the video is Fusilier Lee Dobinson who has bring. “I’ve been skiing in the French Alps; deployed on a UN Peacekeeping been in the Army Reserve for five years and looks after Children with Tour in Cyprus; been to Kenya on a training exercise with the Grenadier Special Needs at Beatrice Tate Secondary School in Mile End. He Guards and I’ve just come back from a week in Canada, working with the became a part-time soldier in order to better himself. He said “I really Canadian Army. There are always loads of opportunities.” wanted to push myself outside of my comfort zone.” Lee loves The film is being used on a variety of social media platforms including The travelling and has taken advantage of the adventure training and London Regiment page on the Army Jobs website as well as the Regimental overseas travel opportunities that being in the Army Reserve can Facebook page. It is also being used in presentations and at careers fairs.

LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 19 ROYAL YEOMANRY Exercise

£100 COCKNEY STAR TOUBKAL ARTICLE

In the autumn, the Royal Yeomanry completed an traverse the mountain range, possibly setting a new route in motion Adventurous Training expedition in the High Atlas for future groups. Mountains in Morocco. In our next village campsite, some of us experienced one of the We stayed a day in the walled city of Taroudant in a small, colonial era cultural highlights of the trip – the slaughter and skinning of a young hotel for briefings – but with plenty of water rugby and volleyball between goat according to Halal custom, which we devoured that evening. One lectures. Being woken early the next morning by the adhan, the Islamic call of the REME soldiers had been a butcher and was able to talk us to prayer, reminded us that we were now in a profoundly Muslim country. through the process, yet the most fascinating part of it was when the cook made a small incision in a hind leg, then blew into it to inflate Once in the Atlas Mountains themselves, we met our mules and porters the gap between the meat and the skin thus making it easier to skin – who were to ferry our tents and larger bags from camp to camp. It may be the undamaged skin commands high prices from tourists in Fez. an overused cliché, but Morocco really is a land of contrasts: a whole day trekking in the heat through a desolate, arid landscape of brown rocks and Having completed the main part of the expedition, we journeyed to scree would change suddenly as we descended in the evening into lush, M’hamid, near the border with Algeria. We had an evening camel ride fertile villages abounding in orange and date trees. Three days into the trek to watch the sunset before spending a night under the stars. Next we arrived in the bustling village of Imlil, where we met up with elements morning some tried their hand at sandboarding (like snowboarding, of the Moroccan Army and Gendarmerie who spent the next week with us. only much slower) before we formally said goodbye to our Moroccan comrades. We then made the long journey north to Marrakesh and We then trekked towards Jebel Toubkal – at 4167m it is the highest experienced another very different side to Morocco – a packed and mountain in northern Africa. To our collective disappointment we were bustling city full of noise, bartering and hidden cultural gems. unable to scale the mountain itself due to snow and ice at the summit. This meant we had a day spare to complete the theory part of the Summer We are grateful for the generous donation from the Ulysses Trust as Mountain Foundation qualification, covering navigation, weather, risk well as the hard work of Captain Jules Ward and the two mountain assessments and law of the countryside. leaders – Major David Larkham and Flight Lieutenant Chris Fawcett – for setting up and running the truly memorable and thoroughly Continuing our trek East, our team bagged our first peak and the highest enjoyable expedition. summit of the expedition – Jebel Aguelzim South (3650m). From our vantage point we had a clear view of the snow capped Mt Toubkal so it was Trooper Dominic Kirby, a slightly bitter sweet success. Ultimately though, we achieved our aim to C & S (Westminster Dragoons) Squadron

20 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 256 (CITY OF LONDON) FIELD HOSPITAL Medics pass out as Officers from Sandhurst

Eight medical Reservists from 256 Field Hospital passed out of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in November following a four-week intensive Officer training course. The medics had attended a Commissioning Course for Professionally Qualified Officers specifically designed for doctors, dentists, pharmacists, nurses and lawyers. The course, which is accredited by various academic and professional institution, develops leadership and professional competencies to the level demanded of an Army Officer. Whilst the focus of the course is on command and leadership, participants also spent time learning about global security, aspects of leadership psychology and the history of warfare. The tactical exercises included a week on the ranges firing the Army’s latest weapons systems, learning how to use digital communication equipment and the physical challenge of core survival skills. The final exercise saw the participants operating in a contemporary environment with peace support operations, war fighting, negotiation and media operations. Lieutenant Colonel Marie Richter, the Regiment’s Second in Command, said, “I could not have been more proud of the officers than watching them passing out from the Military Academy, which is something many aspire to but only the best achieve. They now have two careers, and their Reservist one is off to an excellent start. What an experience; they now have the best leadership training to take back to their NHS jobs and apply to their everyday lives.”

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29237_AMS_London_Bridge_Ad_210x148.indd 1 21/12/2015 13:23 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 21 150 years of Training Reservists

In August, members of 256 Field On parade were members of the Regiment Hospital and honoured guests from all four of its detachments (Kennington, attended a ceremony at Braganza Kensington, Kingston and Brighton). They were joined by Her Worshipful the Mayor of Street Army Reserve Centre in Southwark, Councillor Dora Dixon-Fyle; Southwark to celebrate 150 years Brigadier Peter Gilbert, Deputy Director General of continuous use of the site by Army Medical Services and members of the Volunteers, Territorials and Reservists. Regiment’s three affiliated Livery Companies – The Worshipful Companies of Apothecaries, The Army Reserve Centre is now the Regimental Barbers and Cutlers. Headquarters of 256 Field Hospital, who have been resident there since 1995. However, the Councillor Dixon-Fyle said “It gives me great Reserve Centre and Drill Hall in Braganza Street pleasure to be here today to commemorate The citation read, “WO1 Marriott is a vastly (at one time called New Street) has a long and 20 years of 256 Field Hospital in Braganza experienced and highly competent soldier who illustrious history in the training of Reservists, Street and 150 years of there being Reservist has added and continues to bring untold value to going back to 1865. training at this location. I would like to thank all the Army Medical Services. He has contributed to members of the Regiment, past and present, the careers of hundreds of troops, provided for their impeccable service. We are very proud excellent medical care, supported his commanders to have your Regimental Headquarters in the at all levels and represents his profession with Borough.” total commitment. He is the man of choice when On the same occasion, Warrant Officer Class 1 a safe pair of hands is required and is equally at (WO1) Alan Marriott, who works for the MOD home engaging with Generals as with recruits...” as a storeman and also serves with 256 Field Alan said “I’m very honoured to receive this Hospital, was awarded a Commendation from special award. I’ve always strived to be an asset the Chief of the General Staff for his outstanding and not a hindrance and to do everything to the service to the British Army. He received the best of my ability. I am also lucky to have worked award from Brigadier Gilbert. alongside some great people.”

3 MILITARY INTELLIGENCE BATTALION

Exercise COCKNEY SKADI 2015

Across London, for one week, desks were abandoned in the offices of major accountancies, consultancies, law firms, Whitehall departments, police stations, universities, hospitals and media businesses as their normal incumbents, who also serve with 3 MI Battalion, headed to the slopes of Val Thorens for a week of Adventurous Training. 84 personnel deployed on Exercise COCKNEY SKADI under the Ski Foundation Joint Services Ski Scheme. With the aim to ‘develop individual courage and leadership skills through controlled exposure to risk’, every participant was tested in some way, through attempting SF1, 2 or 3 qualifications or ‘Continuation Training’. The programme was physically and mentally engaging; with a balance of time on pisted slopes, off-piste, ski-trekking and avalanche transceiver drills, alongside evening lectures ranging from avalanche awareness to meteorology. For many, this was their first time skiing and for others, this was their first experience of Army Adventurous Training. With a professional and deeply instilled focus on Operational Support within the Battalion, the Exercise was a reminder for some and an education for others, of an important aspect of the Army that doesn’t exist in the civilian world. The Exercise was a great success and marked one of the highlights of 2015. Captain Martin Kent, 33 MI Company Training Officer, 3 MI Battalion

22 LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 7 RIFLES Army Reserves showcase the Webb Ellis Cup

On Monday 7 September, the famous Webb Ellis Cup – The International Rugby World Cup Trophy – was on show at the Army Reserve Centre in West Ham, home to G Company 7RIFLES. The Cup had been showcased to audiences around the world as part of the build-up to the Rugby World Cup 2015 before starting a 100 day tour of the UK and Ireland on 10 June, to mark the final countdown to the tournament. It was on show at the Army Reserve Centre for two hours, having been at West Ham Football Club and before moving on to the Olympic Stadium. The event was attended by over 100 soldiers and their families, giving them all a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have their picture taken with such a cherished trophy.

UPDATE

Since war broke out a year and a half in case of an attack on Britain. Walt’s girlfriend, Lily, has seen ago, Walter and 1/23rd Battalion The her friend Mabel leave to work at the new munitions factory in London Regiment have completed Woolwich and is trying to summon the courage to take on war long months of wartime training, work herself. Meanwhile, the refugee crisis has left crowds of taken their place in the front line Europeans without a home, the Balkan countries are falling fast and participated in the Battle of to Austria-Hungary, the Indian infantry has been relocated from Loos. During the battle, Walter, by France to the warmer climes of Mesopotamia, soldiers have then a Corporal, was badly injured learned to rub their feet with whale oil to stave off trench foot by shrapnel. He has spent time and the Derby Scheme hasn’t brought in enough recruits to recuperating back in ‘Blighty’ and has now taken up a Sergeant’s prevent conscription… post, training officers in Berkhamsted, where he will More than 17,000 people from across the world are stay until he has regained enough strength to return WW1 SOLDIER’S TALE now avidly following the story of Walter Carter, to the Western Front. Walter’s sister, nurse Rose, a Territorial Force soldier from Battersea, on having worked on the hospital trainsWW1 SOLDIER’S going TALE to and WW1 SOLDIER’S TALE Like so many teenagers, Walter Carter is on Facebook and Twitter. He also writes a blog. But this is 1914, a few months Facebook. Told through social media as well as a before the outbreak of the greatest conflict the world has from Boulogne and as part of a Fieldever seen. Ambulance Aged just 19, Walter is about to share the devastating blog, the events of the First World War are brought changes in his life with his family, his friends, his fellow near the line, has finally been allowedsoldiers and the world. All throughsome social media. leave. You can follow Walter as he leaves his job as a porter at to life through a cast of characters, who report on Clapham Junction Station to train with his Territorial Force Whilst at home she has the opportunitybattalion before leaving for the horrorsto of therekindle front line. What impact will all this have on Lily, the girlfriend he loves? Will his sister Rose survive whilst working as a daily life 100 years ago, in real-time. her friendship with Jamie, an amputeenurse on the ambulance trains soldier in France? How does his mother cope with life on the Home Front while his brother

refuses to sign up? And what news of his eldest brother PART ONE: MARCH 1914 - JUNE 1915 Charlie, a regular soldier who was one of the first to arrive receiving treatment at the Roehamptonin France? ‘Human You can now read the first 15 months of the story in Read the posts and see the shared images from all who are part of Walter’s life, giving a unique insight into the life of Repair Factory’. a soldier during the early years of the First World War. book form – Part 1 is now available to buy on Amazon. Walter’s story has already appeared in real time on Facebook, Twitter and his Blog. It includes comments, photographs, maps and newspaper cuttings shared just as they would be 100 years later. Including comments, newspaper clippings, images and Back in Battersea, Ma continues Nowto you canstruggle join thousands of followers around with the world and read it all in this compelling book. the rising cost of living, while Pa has joined the more, it gives a unique insight into the life of a soldier PART ONE during the early years of the First World War. Volunteer Training Corps, guarding railway bridges MARCH 1914 - JUNE 1915

To follow the story of Walter, his friends and family, visit: Search for WW1 Soldier’s facebook.com/WW1SoldiersTale Tale on Amazon for twitter.com/WW1SoldiersTale paperback and Kindle editions. WW1SoldiersTale.co.uk/blog If you would like to support the project, or would like more information, Don’t forget please contact [email protected] or call 01235 831006 to leave us a review!

LONDON BRIDGE WINTER 2015/16 23 105 Mile Scotland Coast to Coast

What started off as a personal the space of a 12 hour time limit! The September Thank you to the many individuals who were kind challenge to achieve – and a perfect day started with a perfect sun rise as we departed enough to donate. Also, thank you to my Reserve excuse to visit the Highlands of the North Sea coast for the first 12 mile run. Unit, 600 (City of London) Squadron, for whom Scotland – turned into a fundraising However Scotland didn’t disappoint and soon the I helped raise the money as part of their 90th wind and rain set in. By the afternoon and into Anniversary celebrations. My fundraising target challenge I could never have the final 15 mile run on the West Highland Way, of £600 was nearly doubled and now stands at imagined when I signed up to the the weather had really closed in. I made it to the £1,130.38! finish line just in time for the cut off at 11 hours Scotland Coast to Coast on a cold Niall Ahern, Regional Employer Engagement 37 mins. A fantastic way to see the Highlands, January morning in 2015. Director for Greater London but next time I think I’ll just cross it by car... The C2C involves 105 miles of running, cycling and kayaking across Scotland from Nairn on the North If you would like to donate please go to: Sea Coast, crossing the Highlands and ending up in Glencoe on the edge of the Atlantic sea, all in www.justgiving.com/600-SQN-Nialls-Coast-to-Coast-2015

ALTERNATIVE VENUES IS A NON-PROFIT PART OF GL RFCA, RESPONSIBLE FOR THE HIRING OF THE RFCA’S BUILDINGS

MEETING ROOMS HOSPITALITY TEAM BUILDING BANQUETING WORKSHOPS KITCHENS EXHIBITIONS NURSERIES SPORT EVENTS FILMING DANCE EVENTS REHEARSALS EXAMINATION HALLS WINE TASTING CLASSROOMS INDOOR FAIRS OUTDOOR TRAINING PARKING INDOOR TRAINING STORAGE COMMUNITY GROUPS PHONE MASTS