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RHQ/RRF/1363 8th September 2009
Also wounded through enemy action in the month of August were:
Fusilier T A James who remains in Selly Oak hospital and, despite extremely serious and life changing wounds as a result of an IED, is starting to make good progress and has just been upgraded from VSI to SI.
Corporal S C Ferguson who received minor injuries as a result of an IED and has remained in Theatre.
Lance Corporal W Senikaucava who received minor injuries as a result of an IED. He has been flown back to Hounslow and is undergoing medical tests and treatment.
The thoughts and prayers of the Regiment remain with all of these Fusiliers and their families, and with those still on operations in Afghanistan .
1 RRF
The first Battalion have been on leave for the month of August following a very successful move from Fallingbostel to Tidworth. They have now assumed the role of; The Land Warfare Centre Battlegroup with their first exercise being on 14 Sep 09.
Despite being on leave the 1st Battalion have provided outstanding support to the Regiment over the deaths and casualties sustained by the 2nd Battalion in Afghanistan . From providing emergency Casualty Visiting Officers to assembling firing parties at short notice for the funerals of our Fusiliers their performance has been truly magnificent.
Next months Fusilier News will give a good overview of the 1st Battalion’s new role.
2 RRF The 2nd Battalion’s Operational News from Afghanistan is attached and is, as usual, an excellent piece of work which we are all privileged to receive.
The Rear Party have had a particular demanding month and one should not underestimate the enormous pressure they have been under, for obvious reasons. That said, they have risen to every challenge and reacted with flair, determination and where appropriate compassion and dignity.
Next month there will be a larger piece on some of the family events that have been run by the Rear Party.
5 RRF
August was a quiet month for the 5th Fusiliers. With most people on holiday and the majority of industry in the North East taking the ‘Factory Fortnight’, the level of activity was much reduced. August did see, however, the safe return of Delta Platoon from Kabul . During their 6 month tour and in addition to the myriad of base protection tasks, the Platoon carried out 107 foot patrols in Kabul . They also created a small piece of Fusilier history by being commanded for a short period by a German Officer, Lt Muzer (GE/NE Corps), when their own Platoon Commander, Lieutenant Dunn was on R&R and CSgt Thomson had to leave Theatre for a short period of compassionate leave.
Delta Platoon flew the Fusilier flag with distinction at HQ ISAF and received high praise for their professionalism and dedication from many UK and foreign senior officers within Kabul . Yet again, the TA Infantry has proven its worth and competence when given the chance to train and deploy on Operations independently. Maj Snaith also returned home safely from Baghdad where he had been working as a SO2 within the Joint HQ. Three of the Battalions Mortar Platoon remain deployed in Helmand with 2 RRF.
The only training activity of note was an adventure
training weekend in mid August. All companies took part in a variety of
activities including Hill Walking, Canoeing and Mountain Biking in the
Lake District and Northumberland. Thanks go to Capt Mick Straker , ex
Z Coy who now works full time at 15 NE Bde HQ, for organising the majority
of the training. The following short article is written by WO2 Noble,
SPSI X Coy 5RRF.
X AND Z COY, 5 RRF, MOUNTAIN BIKING 21-23 AUG 09
The long awaited summer adventure training weekend
saw 8 members of X and Z Coy, 5 RRF under the supervision of WO2 (SPSI)
Noble cycle the first 114 miles of the coastal castle cycle route from
Newcastle to Berwick upon tweed. The route was via both of the Company’s
manned locations at Tynemouth , Ashington and Alnwick and skirted some
of Northumberland’s coastal castles. The first night saw the group
cycle from St Georges TAC in Newcastle 24 miles to Blyth with an overnight
stay at Ashington TAC. On the second day the group rode a further 66 miles
to Bamburgh via Warkworth Castle and Craster Bay with an overnight stay
at Alnwick TAC. The cycle ride finished 24 miles north of Bamburgh at
the old barracks in Berwick on Sunday 23rd August.
At the Start: L to R: Fus Okoronkwo, WO2 (CSM) Graham, Lt Evans, Fus Brown, Sgt Douglass, WO2 (SPSI) Noble, Sgt Smith, Sgt Alexander
Those who completed the route all commented on how
much they enjoyed it and how challenging it was. Five out of 8 completed
the 114 miles ride in 2 days with technical problems preventing the others
finishing the entire course. This was a testing and rewarding weekend
and something which will be repeated next year.
Old Barracks, Berwick. (114 mile point) : L to R: WO2 (CSM) Graham, Sgt Douglass, Lt Evans, Fus Brown, Sgt Smith,WO2 (SPSI) Noble, MIA: Sgt Alexander, Fus Okoronkwo
September is a key month for the Battalion to carry out its preparation for deployment as OPFOR for 2 RANGLIAN in Kenya on Ex GRAND PRIX. There will be two Battalion level exercises in Catterick including the use of Helicopters to practice Air Manoeuvre. The Battalion is looking forward to working closely with Minden Platoon, Northumberland ACF, who will be providing enemy for both exercises.
The following numbers of soldiers are in training or within the recruiting process:
Phase 1 Training 42 Awaiting CIC (TA) 30
A notable success.
AREA HQ NORTHUMBERLAND
The thoughts and sympathy of all members of The Fusiliers Association of Northumberland go to the families in the Midlands and Manchester of those Fusiliers who were killed on operations in Afghanistan . The thoughts of the North East are also with those members of the 2nd Battalion who have been injured on operations during the month of August
The Regimental Area Headquarters offers its very best wishes to Mrs Amanda Gilby, the E2 in Fenham Barracks who is moving across to D Squadron, Queen’s own Yeomanry on full time employment. (It’s only 50 yards away so the HQ will know where to go when the IT systems go wrong!) Amanda has been with the HQ for 5 years and has been an excellent team member. She will be missed.
AREA HO WARWICKSHIRE
Area Headquarters and the Regimental Association in
Warwickshire and the West Midlands send their heartfelt condolences to
the families of Sgt Valentine, LCpl Fullarton, Fus Carter, Fus Bush and
Fus Annis. There has been tremendous support for the families in Warwickshire
which has included the Civic Community and Police, the Regimental Association
and of course the Casualty Visiting Officers from the Regiment. The recent
funeral of Fusilier Louis Carter in Nuneaton was a most moving and highly
appropriate send off for a brave young Fusilier from Warwickshire.
Regimental Association. August has been quiet on the Association front, but this did not stop the Nuneaton Branch organising the Annual Bowls Competition on Saturday 22 August at the Ambleside Sports Club. Neil Gregory has declared that
Sheldon Branch A Team were the winners, closely followed
by Sheldon Branch B Team. Thanks go to Coventry and Sheldon Branches for
supporting the event.
Central Branch visited Kingsbury Water Park on 15/16 August for a fun on the water and overnight camping for those who were brave enough to break out the sleeping bags once again!
Thankfully the weather was kind which allowed those that took to the water to dry out in the sun! The BBQ was fired up at 7pm which was followed by a night under a 9 x 9 tent for those that wished to remind themselves of Army weekends!
Sheldon Branch also enjoyed a weekend in Edinburgh which included visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. A fuller report will appear in the next Fusilier News.
Warwickshire Museum. The Museum is celebrating having gained Accreditation. This means that the museum has attained a set of nationally agreed standards for museums devised by the Museums Libraries and Archives Council (MLA). The scheme helps museums plan for the future by identifying further areas for work and development to support continuous improvement. The award proves that the museum measures up to meeting the guidelines on how to run and look after the collections and the services provided to visitors.
The museum is one of over 1800 museums participating in the scheme which was introduced in 2004. Accreditation also includes Governance and visitor standards. Accreditation can benefit the museum in a number of ways. It is a useful tool for the museum to assess its’ performance. Some funding and grant making bodies stipulate that museums either have or are working towards Accreditation. It can foster public confidence in museums as institutions able to manage collections effectively and gives the museum a sense of achievement. It also increases credibility and raises the profile.
Thanks go to Stephanie Bennett, the Museum Curatorial Officer for project managing the application and the subsequent hard work in ensuring the museum gained accreditation.
Events.
Friends of the Museum Antique Road Show St John’s House Sat 3 Oct 09 Regimental Service, March Past & Tea Party Warwick Sun 11 Oct 09 Sheldon Branch Annual Dinner Sat 24 Oct 09 Festival of Remembrance Birmingham Town Hall Sun 1 Nov 09 Remembrance Parade Hall of Memory Birmingham Sun 8 Nov 09 Remembrance Parade Bedworth Wed 11 Nov 09 2RRF Welcome Home Parade Warwick Fri 27 Nov 09
AREA HQ LANCASHIRE
Fusilier Simon Annis. It is with great sadness that all Fusiliers from Lancashire said farewell to Fusilier Simon Annis who died on operations with the 2nd Battalion in Afghanistan . The Regimental Family in Lancashire extends its deepest sympathy to the family of Fusilier Annis and to the other Fusilier families suffering an equally devastating loss. Sincere thanks must go to all those who attended the funeral in Irlam where a strong mix of primrose and red and white hackles were there to give Fusilier Annis a good and appropriate Lancashire send off.
Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force - New Headquarters.
The ground breaking ceremony took place on Holcombe Moor for the new Headquarters
and Training Centre of Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force. This new facility
including accommodation for 200, kitchens, classrooms, stores and offices
will replace both the dilapidated training Centre in Ramsbottom and the
current Headquarters in the centre of Manchester .
The new build will take twelve months to complete and will have Holcombe Moor as a back door training area. During the week the accommodation will be used by the Regular Army including the Army Foundation College at Harrogate and courses run by the Army Recruiting Team based on Holcombe Moor. This new HQ is only 5 miles from the Fusilier Museum and 100 metres from the Fusilier Recruiting Team!
Minden Club Dinner. The Minden Club held its annual
dinner at the Army and Navy Club in London . The Club was formed by former
officers of the Lancashire Fusiliers, who have been particularly supportive
in fund raising for the new museum. The guest of honour was the Regimental
Secretary, Brigadier Ian Liles who enjoyed the evening and despite claiming
that he wanted an early night kept the Area Secretary up until the early
hours of the morning. (Ed: Col Cartwright must accept full responsibility!)
Homecoming Parades. Looking ahead, the Homecoming Parades in Lancashire are being planned for Monday 30 November 09 and Tuesday 1 December 09. The intention is to parade through Rochdale during the morning of Monday the 30 November, followed by Bury in the afternoon. On the morning of 1 December the Battalion will parade through Salford .
Fusilier Monument. The Fusilier Monument has now been
erected in Gallipoli Garden . The next phase involves restoration and
conservation with a view to completion ready for the opening of the Museum
on Friday 25 September. The Monument itself will be unveiled on Sunday
27 September as part of the Fusilier Gathering. Lutyen’s design for
the monument included two Regimental Colours
Created in stone. Originally each was emblazoned in full colour and would have looked like the real thing. In preparation for the restoration a detailed examination of the surface has taken place. This has revealed that much of the original finish, including a great deal of gold leaf, had subsequently been covered with Dulux. Once restored, it will be displayed in its original full glory, something not seen for 50 years. It should not be forgotten that this monument is the Fusilier’s Memorial in Lancashire for all Fusiliers.
Fusilier Museum. The Museum has now been opening for
five days a week for 10 weeks and during this time has attracted approaching
5,000 visitors. This includes some 250 children involved in workshops.
For those who are still nostalgic about Wellington Barracks this is equivalent
to the total number of visitors there for 2006 and 2007. Visitors have
paid some £4,500 in entrance fees and spent nearly £4,000
in the shop. The Tourist Information Centre staff report that their visitor
numbers are up and their shop sales have tripled over the same period.
New material continues to arrive. A particularly interesting recent donation
has been a large decorated memorial board from Rochdale .
The memorial was originally located in the Two Ships Hotel, Queen Street, Rochdale and commemorated all those who used to frequent the pub and went on to serve. It also records those who gave their lives. The memorial remained in the Two Ships from the end of the First World War till 2003 when the pub closed and was in danger of becoming derelict. The memorial was saved by Captain the Lord Havering who purchased the pub in order to secure the future of this impressive memorial. In the short term there was nowhere to display it in Rochdale and it consequently went into storage in Yorkshire ! The board will now be displayed in the Normandy Room adjacent to the Rochdale Honours Board.
Bury Recruiting Office. The Recruiting Office is now settling down. Since it opened on the 27 June it has had 112 “walk ins” which have been converted to 54 applications of which 15 are medically cleared so far. Of the applications, 27 are for the Fusiliers.
Fusilier Smith GM. Along with his many jobs in Bury, Fusilier Smith took time to take part in an indoor bike ride sponsored by Subway to raise money for charity. Finally to end on some good news a baby boy of 6lb 14oz has been born to Fusilier Danny Smith GM and Joanne. The baby is called Kaiden Daniel Smith.
NOTICES
This is another reminder that the Annual Regimental Dinner will be held on the evening of the 29 October 2009 in the New Armouries in HM The Tower of London. Tickets are available from the Assistant Regimental Secretary, tel: 02031666906. As a high attendance is expected from the 1st and 2nd Battalions this is, in recent years, a unique opportunity to dine and catch up on the Battalion’s experiences and to meet old friends and colleagues.
I R Liles OBE Brigadier (Retd) Regimental Secretary |
 FUSILIER NEWS Regimental Headquarters The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers HM Tower of London London EC3N 4AB Tel: 020-3166-6909 Fax: 020-3166-6920 E-mail: rhq@thefusiliers.org RHQ/RRF/1363 5th August 2009 2 RRF OPERATIONAL CASUALTIES As you should all be aware, July 2009 witnessed further casualties in Afghanistan for the Regiment. Corporal Joseph Etchells, A Company 2 RRF, attached to the Rifles Battlegroup, was tragically killed on operations in Sangin following an enemy IED attack. His funeral will be held on 11 August 2009 in Mossley, Lancashire. Three further personnel were wounded in the attack; Lance Corporal Hurley, who dislocated his shoulder and is an out-patient at Selly Oak awaiting further surgery, Fusilier White, who lost a finger and received numerous fragmentation wounds, he remains in Selly Oak following surgery and Fus Hughes who is now back to work on light duties with the Rear Party in Cavalry Barracks, Hounslow. The Colonel of the Regiment has asked that I relay that all of our casualties and their families remain in the Regiments thoughts and prayers, as do all 2nd Battalion Fusiliers that continue to be committed on operations in Afghanistan. XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX
XX XX XX XX XX XX XX As June turned to July all members of the Battalion have embraced the Unit Move with open arms, scrubbing, polishing and accounting for stores ready for inspections and handovers. Members of 3 MERCIAN have begun trickling slowly through the Lumsden Barrack gates, and as a result the Fusiliers' morale has lifted steadily in direct relation to the number of 3 MERCIAN soldiers wandering about open jawed in awe at the space, tropical climate and sheer isolation! OC JAVELIN Platoon, Capt Mark Milne, has been assembling a team which will shortly deploy to join 2 RRF for the tail-end of their Op HERRICK tour. These 7 men aim to build vital corporate knowledge within the 1st Battalion as they move to Tidworth and begin preparing other units for operations in Afghanistan. On their return in the autumn they will be expected to brief the Battalion on their short tour, providing a glimpse of what's to come after the LWC BG role. The Harts Medals Inter-Company boxing competition was
staged at the start of the month as the culmination of the Commanding
Officer's Competition. All of the boxers had clearly trained extremely
hard under the guidance of their coaches, and worked tirelessly to perfect
their techniques and improve fitness in the build-up to the Finals. After
many hard-fought bouts and impressive displays of physical courage and
skill, Z Company were pronounced winners. The result meant that W Company
narrowly claimed this year's overall title of 'Champion Company'. Capt
Tony Hall will now train the Battalion squad, building upon this success
for a number of fixtures already on the cards in the UK. Z Coy boxers celebrate their victory Cpl Rourke vs Fus Dalton In a rare break from cleaning and packing Y Company managed to find time to say goodbye to Germany by 'burning rubber' at 'Schumacher's Go-karting'. LCpl Phil Keay now holds the track all time lap record thanks to some extremely dubious corner-cutting whilst the marshals were dealing with one of the frequent multi-kart pile-ups! The Company's Officers, SNCOs and Cpls also participated in some friendly ten-pin bowling, with the Coy 2IC, Capt Tom Atkinson, reigning supreme. The last laugh, however, was had by Cpl Andrew Chappel and Sgt 'Andy' Andrews when they demonstrated exactly what they spent their teenage years doing, by fleecing both Platoon Commanders for €20 at pool! (Ed: gambling is of course contrary to Queen's Regulations so I can only assume this is a misprint!) The Battalion says fond farewells to a number of celebrities as it departs Germany. Maj Craig Taylor leaves to start work with Col Nanson in 1 Div, whilst Maj Paul Morris leaves to become OC Junior Division at the Infantry Battle School, Brecon. Sgt Cairne will hopefully move to 2PWRR in Padeborn (interview dependant!), Cpl Jackson is transferring to stay in Germany with 3 MERCIAN and Cpl Ebling and Fus Gardner 26 move to the Poachers in Celle. Cpl Lee Smith, Fus Scott Wilde and Fus Richie Norris leave the Battalion after serving well, and will certainly be missed - although apparently Fus Norris' Platoon Commander wouldn't admit that to him! With the Rear Party firmly in place at Mooltan Barracks,
Tidworth, the remainder of the Battalion are beginning their Summer Leave.
They will return to work on 24 August to familiarise themselves with their
new surroundings before beginning a 2 week exercise in preparation for
their first Land Warfare Centre tasking.
D/Maj Ken Whyley ably supervising Fus "Johnny" Varte as he puts the finishing touches to the Coy Offices
RSM Robinson lowers the Regimental flag in Fallingbostel for the final time, watched by Maj Alex Beart, Bn 2IC 2 RRF The 2 RRF monthly operational update is attached to this Newsletter. (Ed: I had a long chat with the Commanding Officer of the 2nd Battalion last week who confirmed that morale is high and that the Fusiliers remain fully committed to their mission in Afghanistan and immensely proud of their achievements to date. Being just over half way through the tour everyone appreciates that there is still a great deal to do and that difficult and challenging times remain ahead, but there also is no doubt that the Fusiliers are 'up for it' and, up to it. 5 RRF There have been some memorable events in a month that has ended with a deal of doom and gloom caused by the announcement that there will be considerable savings measures taken against TA Main Training Days (MTDs). The Visit to the Delta Platoon in Kabul by the Commanding Officer and Regimental Sergeant Major, the Attendance of a 5th Battalion marching contingent at the 250th Anniversary at Minden, two demanding Field Training Exercises at Catterick and Otterburn and a combined officer's and Sergeant's Mess dinner to celebrate Minden day are but some of the highlights. The RIFLES contingents of the Battalion have also taken part in a freedom parade in Leeds, marching with 2 RIFLES as part of their home coming events. HQLF directed in year savings measures are about to
have a significant impact on Regional Forces. This will lead to MTD restrictions
and limitations on the type and frequency of training. The positive news
for 5 RRF is that there will be no restrictions imposed until the task
to provide OPFOR for Exercise GRAND PRIX is complete. Also, reallocation
of funding within 15 NE Bde has ensured that 5 RRF will be able to maintain
a regular and productive Training programme, albeit reduced, for the remainder
of the year. So, they should be well placed to meet the OCP commitment
for Op HERRICK 14. One message for all TA Infantry Battalions is; the
more that can be done to support the Operational Training Burden, as well
as providing operational reinforcement, the stronger the case will be
to retain a bigger share of scarce RF resources. If it cannot be demonstrated
that the training effort and commitment is going towards support of OP
ENTIRETY, then funding is likely to be reduced or even removed. Further
details of the scale and impact of the savings measures will be published
in the coming weeks. Commanding Officer and RSM Visit 5 RRF Personnel in Afghanistan After a great deal of 'on the bus off the bus', staff
clearance to visit Delta Platoon in Kabul finally came through for the
Commanding Officer and RSM. A blanket email previously issued from LAND
cancelling all visits to theatre by; Regtl Cols, members of RHQs and Regional
Bde HQs had some how been misinterpreted to include Commanding Officers.
After numerous emails, phone calls and very clear and open threats, clearance
was finally granted allowing the commanding Officer to visit his soldiers
on operations! CO and RSM with Mr Dunn and Delta Platoon .in Afghanistan
Then came another RAF waiting area, another important brief by another important RAF corporal who started every sentence with "gents excuse rank" (ed: glad to see some things never change!). After a 40 min flight the Commanding Officer and RSM were out of the hands of the RAF and delivered into the care LT Dunn and Delta Pl. After a short brief they were ushered into the back of some Snatch Land rovers (yes they are still out there and in use) and taken to HQ ISAF and the final destination. The next day Lt Dunn organised a quick tour of ISAF before meeting his multiple who were on QRF duties. The number of different nationalities present at HQ ISAF was truly staggering, and made for interesting C3. As Lt Dunn explained; he has 15 Italians merged into his Platoon , His OC is RLC, the CO of the force protection is a US Col (National Guard) with an Australian 2 IC, and there is a Macedonian company with its own command structure and HQ element. It soon became apparent that Delta Platoon are performing magnificently, as all those encountered in the Chain of Command had nothing but high praise for the men and their professional ability. It also became clear after talking in depth to the 5 RRF soldiers that they were all more confident, mature and a closer team than the Delta Platoon that departed Northumberland at the start of the year. It was good to see how far they had come, a fact they were keen to show off by the repeated question to the Commanding Officer and RSM of "Sirs, when are you coming on patrol with us?" There could only be one answer to that, so the rest of the day was spent with the Commanding Officer and RSM being issued Osprey, ammunition, first aid kits and the zeroing of weapons. The next morning the Commanding Officer and RSM were
sitting in the briefing room listing to Lt Dunn give his patrol orders
for a Veh/foot patrol to the rear of swimming pool hill. Once deployed
on foot a very cheerful Fus Mackenzie pointed to the top of swimming pool
hill, which dominates central Kabul and said with glee "10B have
a foot patrol tomorrow and they are going up there I am sure they will
want you to go with them". The next day was spent obliging Fus Mackenzie
as the photograph below proves. CO and RSM on top of Swimming Pool Hill, Kabul All too quickly the visit was over and it was time
for the Commanding Officer and RSM to return home but not before a 3 day
flight delay in Kandahar! All of the 5 RRF soldiers were genuinely pleased
to see the CO and RSM and justifiably proud of all they have achieved
and that they could hold their own against their Regular Army colleagues.
This trip took a lot of time and effort to arrange but was more than worth
it. The RSM left with the impression that visits of this nature are not
only important but vital to the deployed soldiers. As would be expected this year's Minden celebrations were special. At home, a combined Officer's and Sergeant's Mess dinner night at St George's occurred where the traditional rose eating was upheld extremely well by 2Lt Evans, a newly commissioned platoon commander from X Coy. The Battalion also sent a marching contingent of 15 Fusiliers to take part in the 250th Anniversary celebrations at Minden in Germany. The members of 5RRF, lead by WO2 Graham (CSM X Coy) represented the Regiment admirably (ed: I have received several letters and phone calls from PWRR officers remarking on how well the Fusiliers from 5 RRF performed on the day) The following report on the Minden gathering was written by WO2 Graham. Minden Parade 30th July - 3rd August 2009 'We all reported to ST George's TAC At 1200hrs on Thursday 30 July 2009 for a road move to Paderborn, Germany via Dover and Calais. Those who participated were; WO2 Graham, WO2 Andrews, SGT Long, CPL Maitland, CPL Currey, L/CPL Morris, FUS Berry, FUS Carr, FUS Coulthard, FUS Jackson, FUS Reddall, FUS Visenga, and FUS White. On arrival at Paderborn Barracks we were hosted by
1 PWRR at Barker barracks. We administered ourselves and prepared our
kit ready for the parades the following day. 1PWRR were also holding a
families event which we were invited to and attended for a short while
in camp. We had an early start on Saturday in order to be in Minden for
0815hrs dressed in No2's in readiness for a memorial parade held at the
Todtenhausen Memorial. We had 5 members of our group on parade for the
memorial service, during which Wreaths were laid and Minden roses were
presented to those on parade by the relevant OC of each unit. Following
the parade a police escort took us to the Prussian museum on Simeonsplatz
square for a major memorial festival event. At 1425hrs we formed up in
the town centre of Minden along with other marching contingents from British
and German units. 5RRF Contingent Cross the River Weser accompanied by
the Minden Band of the Queens Division. We stepped off at 1430 hrs and the route took us through
Minden town centre and down to the bank of the river Weser where we were
halted whilst National anthems were played by the Minden band of the Queens
Division. A bridge was established over the river Weser by the Bundeswehr
(supported by 412 AMPH Tp, RE). Once the bridge had been established each
unit marched over the bridge in turn whilst their respective Regimental
Marches were played. This completed the formal events and parades for
the weekend. The next morning we made an early start following breakfast
for the return journey home. We arrived home in the early hours of Monday
3 August. The whole experience was enjoyed by everyone on parade and the
presence of the Hackle was noted and complimented on by a number of high
profile guests. Fus Coulthard, LCpl Morris, WO2 CSM Graham, Cpl Currie,
Fus Jackson at Minden Memorial on Minden day. TA SAAM The 5RRF shooting team had considerable success at TA SAAM. Included in the haul of silver was: 1st Para Cup The team consisted of the following pwersonnel; Maj Blaney HQ Coy, Sgt Fenwick HQ Coy, LCpl McKimm HQ Coy, Fus Arthur HQ Coy, Rfn Fenwick HQ Coy, LCpl Wood D Coy, Rfn Greenhald D Coy, Rfn Brown D Coy, Fus Morris X Coy. Reserves were Fus Berry, Fus Taylor and Fus Hayden X Coy. Annual Camp 2009 Planning and preparation for 5RRF's OPFOR commitment for Ex GRAND PRIX are in an advanced stage. While all other OTX for TA have been cancelled, 5RRF and 4 YORKS (BATUS OPFOR) have been confirmed as high priority training support tasks that reinforce the Army's operational main effort and reduce the Training Support Burden for Regular Troops. The QM has produced outstanding work and 10 of the battalions CLANSMAN FFR Land Rovers departed on a ship to Kenya last week. Hopefully they will be seen again in Kenya! The remainder of the freight departs in a couple of weeks and the advance party deploys on the 4th October. The main body is set to depart on 22 Oct for 2 weeks. 5RRF will deploy with some 200 personnel with support from QOY and medics from 4 Lancs. Soldiers In Training The Battalion has the following numbers of soldiers in training or within the recruiting process: Phase 1 Training 41 Highly commendable figures and a reflection of the amount of recruiting work put in by all.
On Tuesday 28 July a detachment from The Fusiliers Association of Northumberland paraded in Wooten Bassett along with many other Fusiliers to pay their respects to the late Corporal Joseph Etchells. The thoughts and sympathy of all Association members in the North East go to his family, and, best wishes for the speedy recovery to the wounded of 2 RRF. Mr Sandy Lowrie from the Kirton Lindsey Branch is thanked for organising the representation on the day. The Fusilier Association of Northumberland (Kirton Lindsey Branch) recently visited ex-Sgt John Sharkey who is a resident in a care home in Worksop. John was a very well known member of 2RRF and was for a time the Provost Sgt. John was found in good spirits and excellent accommodation. Should any of the Lancashire members of the Association wish to visit John they are asked to contact: Champion Unit, Victoria Care Home, Memorial Avenue in Worksop prior to travelling. Any visitor is asked to take any photographs or Fusilier memorabilia as this will help raise his morale. The late Captain John Latimer Smith's funeral took place on Tuesday 28 July at Islington Crematorium with many of his friends in attendance. John was a National Service officer in 1RNF in the late 50's and in the TA for a number of years afterwards. Many Fusiliers in 1RNF and 1RRF in the 60's & 70's will be saddened to hear of the death of Gordon Napier. Gordon was at one time the Provost Sgt of 1 RRF who had the duty (he always said pleasure) of locking up the Regimental Secretary when he was serving as a Fusilier in 1 RRF for "conduct unbecoming". His funeral took place at the West Road Crematorium on Thursday 30th July. He will be deeply missed. AREA HQ WARWICKSHIRE Community Engagement (CE) has been the Main Effort
in July culminating with a Civic Luncheon at St John's House on 27 July
hosted by Brigadier David Paterson. Guests included; The Lord Lieutenant
of Warwickshire, The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, some seven Town Mayors,
three CEOs of Borough Councils and representatives of the education and
business community. The event was also an excuse to launch the new St
John's House Wine which must have gone down well with the civic community
as two Mayors announced their intent to grant the Regiment Freedom of
Entry to their towns in 2010. July has been a quiet time for the Association in Warwickshire and the West Midlands although Sheldon Branch made their annual visit to the Severn Valley Railway in Bewdley over the weekend of 4/5 July, which Mr Neil Gregory reports as a great success. There was a strong turnout from Sheldon and Central Branches at Wootton Bassett on Tuesday 28 July to pay their respects at the repatriation of Cpl Joseph Etchells. Planning is well advanced to host meetings at St John's House in August between the Joint Casualty & Compassionate Centre (JCCC) and relatives of those soldiers from 2/6 and 2/7 Battalions of The Royal Warwickshire Regiment who lost their lives at the Battle of Fromelles in 1916. Readers will be aware that in May 2008, after several years of painstaking research and investigation, a number of burial pits were identified at Pheasant Wood, near Fromelles in Northern France. The pits, which have lain undisturbed for more than 90 years, contain the remains of between 250 and 300 British and Australian soldiers, buried behind the German Lines after the Battle of Fromelles in July 1916. The British and Australian governments have asked the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to oversee the operation to recover the remains and create a new military cemetery at Fromelles for their reburial. The work began in May 2009 and should be completed by July 2010. The Museum saw the return of "The Seek Glorry"
silver snuff box which was stolen from St John's House some 14 years ago.
The box gets its name from the words "Seek Glorry" scratched
on it with a fork, alongside an original inscription of "the gift
of Lt Col Hedges 48th Regt to the 6th Regt, 28 Jan 1785. The snuff box
was probably traded among collectors, and had it not been seen in an auction
catalogue by Jock Craven, Deputy Chairman of the Museum Trustees Committee
who immediately recognised its unique inscriptions, it might have been
lost forever. After protracted negotiations between the Auctioneers and
representatives of the vendor the snuff box was eventually returned to
its rightful home. Ian Lappin, the Office Manager at Area HQ, and Colonel Joe Hordern visited the three Royal Warwickshire Regiment 'In Pensioners' at the Royal Hospital Chelsea on 22 July which included an informative tour of the new infirmary and the excellent facilities afforded to the 'In Pensioners'. Gifts to the Royal Warwick 'In Pensioners' included "Antelope" chocolate mints and Brigadier Harry Illing's book "No Better Soldier". AREA HQ LONDON July has been an extremely busy month although the building works continue to irritate (Ed: particularly me!!). Now we are approaching the end of the project, the contractor is doing a final hose down of the exterior, regardless of windows ajar or visitors braving a mud waterfall whilst trying to enter the museum! This, together with the security lock failing when Lt Col Peter Cross attempted to enter the building to stay in the Regimental bedroom has not helped day to day work. Paul Collins, the steward was less than amused to be crashed out to help, as he thought, another officer unable to put a key in a lock. However, his key failed too. All was resolved after Paul scaled the scaffolding to find an open window and was able to open up from the inside. The following day the lock had to be changed and 17 keys cut to enable RHQ to function. The number of functions accelerated during the month with a good few of the Public Duties incremental companies holding dinners to commemorate their stint in London. Other dinners have included Air Chief Marshal Sir Glen Torpy and his staff to dine him out at the end of his tenure. The Area Colonel, Nigel Easton, and the Area Secretary attended a most enjoyable BBQ supper with 134 Detachment ACF where they were able to meet cadets and their families. The detachment has recently lost its four senior cadets but, to their credit, they have retained one as a potential cadet instructor, one went to C Company at Balham, one went regular RRF and the last one joined the Coldstream Guards. 100% back into the system. Well done. Once or twice a year the Tower hosts the traditional Ceremony of the Dues. This Ceremony involves visiting warships paying dues to the Constable of the Tower. It is a formal ceremony where the ships officers and crew ceremonially enter the Tower and duly present a barrel of port to the Constable. This year, for the first time, a ship from the US Navy had the honour. At the last moment, however, their band had to be elsewhere and AHQ was asked if they could provide musical accompaniment. The Area Secretary contacted 103 Detachment at St Mary's Cray who were delighted to provide their drums platoon. This RRF cadet corps is a first class outfit and on the day put in an outstanding performance. The accolades just kept coming in. They are now firmly on the Towers radar. Incidentally, they had played at Buckingham Palace only two days earlier. They are also due to perform at Balham for the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Minden Dinner on 1 August. AHQ was delighted to host a group of International cadets on 24 July. They were in the UK on an exchange visit and came to the Tower to observe and see a British Infantry HQ. The Area Secretary gave them a full tour and historical brief including the twelve Victorian Crosses held by the Museum. Finally, the Regiment was honoured that the farewell dinner for the outgoing Constable, General Sir Roger Wheeler, took place in the Regimental Mess. Colonel Nigel Easton. Brigadier Ian Liles and Major Colin Bowes-Crick together with their wives represented the Regiment at this excellent occasion. General Sir Roger has been a terrific friend to the Regiment and will be sadly missed in his appointment as Constable. It is hoped, however, that he will continue to visit both RHQ and AHQ. AREA HQ LANCASHIRE This month has witnessed both the joy of the new Museum and Headquarters opening and the sadness at the loss of Corporal Joseph Etchells from Mossley. Both events illustrate the reality of Regimental life but the sad loss of Joe Etchells more than anything else puts some of the current disputes regarding the museum into perspective. Sincere commiserations are offered to the family of Corporal Joe Etchells by the Headquarters staff and all Fusiliers in Lancashire. The Museum has now been open for five weeks. It is still a novelty and undoubtedly this affects the statistics but to date just over 3,000 visitors have been recorded, including many families with young children. At Wellington Barracks the Museum would receive on average just over 2,000 visitors a year! Early days but things are moving in the right direction. Linsay Walsh the long-suffering Chief Clerk has now left on maternity leave. She has done much to turn the Headquarters around and will be missed not least by the Area Secretary. She is wished all the very best. The Careers Office is open for business and is now manned by Staff Sergeant Slater RLC, Sergeant Monaghan and Fusilier Smith GM, who since his transfer to Moss Street from Holcombe Moor, has done an invaluable job in support of the Careers Office, Museum and Headquarters. To date the office has had 57 walk-ins of who 30 have applied and sat the BARB Test. In support of recruiting in Bury 1RRF committed to a surge at the end of July, swamping the town centre with hackles. This layering of activity involving, Museum, Association, TA and the Regular Battalions is having a positive effect and Bury is reinforcing its position as a Fusilier Town. The same now needs to be achieved in Salford. The renamed Gallipoli Garden adjacent to the Museum
is a riot of colour as Bury Council once again prepare for the Britain
in Bloom competition. On behalf of the Regiment the AHQ wish them well
and judging by the view from the museum café Bury deserve to win.
Linked to this, the concrete base for the Fusilier Monument has been laid
in the garden and is now covered by a flowerbed. Work is currently taking
place on the Monument at Wellington Barracks to prepare it for the move
and once the Britain in Bloom judges move out of Gallipoli Garden the
masons will move in Within the Museum, child activities are proving popular and on one day alone sixty children were involved in filling comfort boxes for the 2nd Battalion. It is hoped that when the Fusiliers open their boxes in Afghanistan that they don't think that the Area Secretary Lancashire writes all his notes with a crayon. One of the highlights of August was the Regimental
Association commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Minden
on Minden Sunday. This year, under the command of John O'Grady, the Association
took the opportunity to commemorate not only the glorious victory but
also the move of the Area Headquarters from Wellington Barracks to Moss
Street. The Sunday culminated in a drumhead service in Gallipoli Garden
attended by over 100 Fusiliers including the Territorial Army from the
Castle Armoury. The sun shone, which is unusual for Bury and the event
concluded with a tour of the museum for the veterans.
NOTICES The Regimental Dinner As a reminder to all, the Regimental dinner will be held on 29 October 09. This later date was arrived at in order to allow the 2nd Battalion officers to attend on their return from Afghanistan. Both the 1st and 2nd Battalions Officers' Messes will be attending in strength for the first time in many years. Tickets for all serving and retired officers can be purchased through the Asst Regtl Sec. The Regimental Journal RHQ will be putting together the Dec 09 Regimental Journal in Oct. This is a plea for articles, letters and photographs to go into the Journal. All contributions will be gratefully received and should be sent to; rhq@fusiliers.org arriving by 29 Sep 09. Remember, this is your Journal so please contribute to it. I R Liles OBE |
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FUSILIER NEWS Regimental Headquarters The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers HM Tower of London London EC3N 4AB Tel: 020-3166-6909 Fax: 020-3166-6920 E-mail: rhq@thefusiliers.org
RHQ/RRF/1363 9 July 2009
OPERATIONAL CASUALTIES AFGHANISTAN
Captain Anthony Harris has returned to Selly Oak for further surgery after his left foot became infected. He is likely to be there for another 3 weeks. Fusilier Keegans remains at home on sick leave.
The Colonel and all members of the Regiment wish them a speedy recovery. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Colonel R J Carruthers – OBE. Major MCR Thorp – MBE. Captain A J Hall - CinC Certificate for Meritorious Service. WO2 W Miller – CinC Certificate for Meritorious Service. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1RRF
The Battalion’s focus during June has been the Board of Officers and final preparation for the Unit Move. This has all run smoothly thanks to the hard work and application of all sub-units. The Pre-Advanced Party are now beginning their takeover of equipment and accounts in Tidworth.
Simultaneously, the Rifle Companies have been finishing final maintenance work on the Warrior fleet and garages, which will be handed-over to 3 MERCIAN in July. As usual a variety of cadres have continued apace in the background, and everyone has been working away at their MATTs to remove another requirement from the already busy training programme at LWC.
W Company completed an enjoyable exercise in Haltern which encompassed both blank and live firing, complete with an integrated Coy attack. Their Bravo, Mullah “Rocky” Kahn, was successfully captured – and bore a striking resemblance to Sgt Wright, their boxing coach!
WCoy advances during
the final attack
(Above) The newly reformed Javelin Pl after completing their exercise in Haltern.
The gaunt, malnourished soldiers running around camp has nothing to do with Pay As You Dine, but are a product of the hard training which has been taking place for months in preparation for the Harts Medals. Next month’s SITREP will include details of what promises to be an excellent, hard-fought competition.
The Battalion Rugby Squad entered two rugby 7s competitions in June, winning a runners-up trophy from the Hamburg Exiles – a tough international competition. The Battalion also entered two teams in the Kiel 7s with a weaker A Team due to spreading utility players to cover both teams in case of injury. The teams did extremely well in the heats but unfortunately lost in the semi-finals.
Tuesday 23 June saw the much-anticipated Commanding Officer’s Challenge. This event was the only part of the Inter-Company Competition that was a complete secret to everyone, other than the CO and the APTCI, SSgt Foley. Having assembled his normal Command Group at 0800, it soon became clear that this event was to be a Warrior pulling competition.
The Companies were to field 20 men with four reserves each, with the combined team weight being capped at 1700kg – it was to be a game for the young and thin as well as the old and bold.
After a couple of false starts, the sheer difficulty of the task was evident. With all 20 men on the rope, however the 26 Tons of Warrior AFV were being swiftly hauled across the cobbles of the tank park as the remainder of the companies cheered enthusiastically.
Z Company failed to win a single race and therefore finished 5th. Y Company were certainly determined, but finished 4th. X Company seemed to struggle with the conditions and finished 3rd whilst HQ Company proved to be the dark horses of the day, their experience and determination bagging them a much-deserved 2nd place.
But the day belonged to W Company, who seemed untouchable in their four wins out of four. With only the Inter-Company boxing to come, it looks like the men of Support Company will indeed be holding the Inter-Company shield aloft in days few.
The ugly but happy faces of W Coy after winning The CO’s Challenge.
Z Coy take the strainduring the Warrior pull, encouraged by their OC
2 RRF The monthly 2 RRF operational report from Afghanistan is an attachment to this News Letter.
The Rear Party report that the past few months have been very busy, with the ladies going out on organised trips to the West End to see We Will Rock You and also a Night at The Dogs. The regular Sunday lunches have been a great success with upwards of 200 people attending. The Last lunch was attended by the Mayor of Hounslow and a few Local Councillors. Last weekend witnessed the annual TW4 carnival where the welfare team dressed up as super heroes with the UWO as Ali G (ed: not much dressing up needed there!).
The families are looking forward to the halfway Sunday lunch this weekend and the occasion is being marked with a fete and fair. Hounslow Council will attend to present the children with a cheque for £500 for a day trip to Thorpe Park later this month. Emma Suesue is back from Fiji and will be joining presenting a cheque for £1315 for Help the Heroes, this was the money collected at and after the memorial service for her Husband, Fusiliers Pat Suesue. The children will be presenting a Cheque to The Defence Medical Welfare Services, Selly Oak hospital for the money they raised for the Bouncy-athon.
5 RRF
Last month BHQ embarked on a sailing trip on the Fusilier yacht across the Channel from Portsmouth to Normandy and visited some of the D-Day battlefields. During the crossing rough conditions forced an unscheduled stop over in Alderney , all concerned were glad to reach land as not everyone had found their sea legs and the sea sickness was becoming debilitating to say the least. Maj Hallam, Maj Inglis-Jones, Capt Preston-Pacey, 2Lt Forrest and RSM Goldsmith made up the crew of landlubbers who allegedly had to be forced back into the yacht for the final dash to France.
The Officers' Mess held a Ladies Dinner Night in the grand setting of Durham Town Hall and took the opportunity to dine out Capt Barker (who retires after 44 years service), Capt McConnell and Capt Howe. The night was superbly supported by the Band and a Northumberland Piper, who played to an excellent standard.
The Battalion was represented at flag raising ceremonies in Durham and Alnwick as part of the Armed Forces Day celebrations. The opportunity was used to carry out recruiting at Bents Park in South Shields . Other events that showcased 5 RRF included an event at the DLI museum, Durham .
The Battalion shooting team had their two week shooting camp culminating with a strong performance at Bisley with the team coming third overall; a commendable result.
A (FUSILIER) COMPANY 4 MERCIAN
The focus for June has been on honing patrol skills in preparation for the Battalion patrols competition in July. However, with large numbers of recruits about to go away on Midlands Challenge (combined phase 1 & 2 training) and recent budget cuts to man training days, patrols have taken a back seat.
The Company was represented on Armed Forces Day by Cpl Matthews at Alcester and eleven Fusiliers on parade, and at a church service in Birmingham . Again the heavens opened although this time only the OC got drenched, much to the amusement of the rest of the Coy.
Finally, 2Lt whittle is congratulated for passing PCBC as top student.
NORMANDY COMPANY OP HERICK 10 The following is a report from Captain J K M Lam RRF (V, Normandy Company, 4 MERCIAN:
Normandy Company, consisting of 17 Fusiliers from the West Midlands, assumed the role of Force Protection (FP) Company for Camp Bastion for Op HERRICK 10 on 30 March 2009. Over 15% of the company strength is made up of Fusiliers and include; Major Chris Carter (OC), Capt Adam Comery (Ops Offr), WO2 Lewis (MTWO), CSgt Penny (CQMS), Sgt Hutchison (Stores Sgt), CSgt Kavaz (AIO) and not the least Capt Lam (IO) in the Coy HQ. The Company, OPCOM the RAF Regt Force Protection Wing, became a company group in early May 09 with the Support Weapons Flight of 15 Sqn RAF Regt and the RAF Police.
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) took over the force protection role at the beginning of June. However, the internal protection for Camp Bastion remains the responsibility of the FP Wing. Normandy Company has now reorganised with 1 and 2 Platoons, under command of Major Carter, deployed forward to LASHKAR GAR. This, in turn, released IX Coy the Welsh Guards for planned operations which are ongoing. 3 Platoon together with the RAF flight and Police remain in Bastion to continue with the FP duties, less the GDA patrol, as the AO outside Bastion is now the sole responsibly of the USMC.
Normandy Company is functioning very well and morale is high with some 15 soldiers away every week on R&R. Every member of the Company is keen to ensure that this operational tour is successfully accomplished. The Fusiliers are also looking forward to returning home in early October and attending the Regimental Day at Warwick on Sunday 11th October in particular.
MACHINE GUN PLATOON THE DUKE OF LANCASTER ’S REGIMENT
During June WO2 Gilks and Fusiliers Patten, Phillips, Clarke and Wain returned from Op Tosca. They had an enjoyable tour from all reports. In addition, the Platoon had several men who, on learning 2RRF were due to deploy on Op Herrick, promptly volunteered for Full Time Reserve Service to do their part in supporting the Regiment. These included; WO2 Gilks who obviously has no home to go to as he has only just returned from Op Tosca, Sgt Brady, Cpl Shambayati, his younger brother Fus Shambayati, Fus Matthews and Fus Power. For Armed Forces Day on 27 June 09 the Platoons supplied
gun teams to Manchester and Bury raising the profile of the Fusiliers,
and the Platoon was honoured to be invited to the opening day of the new
Regimental Museum and set up a recruiting stand throughout the day. The
Platoon also took part in the Bury Show on 28 June 09. The Platoon is looking forward to the Annual camp at sunny Okehampton and ongoing MG training.
AREA HQ (NORTHUMBERLAND)
On Saturday 27 June 09 a dedication parade took place in Kirton Lindsey to commemorate the service of 1RRF and 1RNF 1966-71. More than 90 former Fusiliers were on parade with their respective standards to see a new road opposite the town secondary school named “ Fusilier Way ”. A time capsule was buried with a large number of regimental artefacts that had been donated by members of The Fusiliers Association of Northumberland. Both the Town Mayor and the Chairman of the Kirton Lindsey Branch, Major Charles Jackson, spoke about the 5 years the Battalion had been stationed in the former RAF camp at the edge of the town and how both the towns people and the Geordies had taken each other to their hearts. A minutes silence was also observed during the dedication ceremony to allow respects to be paid to those Fusiliers who had lost their lives on active service during the time of the Battalion’s posting in the town.
On Sunday 5 July 09 more than 30 members of The Fusiliers Association of Northumberland paraded at St Cuthbert’s Church in Bedlington to take part in a rededication service for both the colour of the 2nd Battalion Tyneside Scottish (Northumberland Fusiliers) and the memorial chapel where this refurbished colour will now take pride of place next to a book containing the roll of honour with the names of those miners who together marched from a night shift, to Newcastle to enlist with the “Fighting Fifth”. The 2nd Battalion Tyneside Scottish (Northumberland Fusiliers) were one of the many Battalions who were decimated during the Battle of the Somme and it was appropriate that this dedication service took place on the Sunday closest to the start of the anniversary of that terrible battle.
The Regimental Area Headquarters was very pleased to be informed that the new Unitary Authority, Northumberland County Council, has invited The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers to accept the freedom of the County by marching through the County town of, Morpeth, with colours flying, bayonets fixed and drums playing on Saturday 24 April 2010. It has been confirmed that the Fusiliers will be the first Regiment to have the freedom of a County granted in the UK . Many Regiments have been granted the freedom of cities, towns and royal boroughs and in Scotland certain districts have granted the freedom to individual regiments but it is a sign of the respect Northumberland has for all members of our Regiment that the honour of the freedom of the County will now be granted to all Fusiliers.
AREA HQ WARWICKSHIRE
A strong turnout of 45 members and their families from the Central Branch were present at The Colonel’s Review of the Queen’s Birthday Parade on Saturday 6 June 09 which was thoroughly enjoyed by all regardless of the occasional shower. The Association shooting competition, despite horrendous weather conditions, went ahead as planned at Swynnerton Training Area on 7 June 09 with Sheldon Branch beating Central Branch by just one point. The two best shots were Carl Pocock (Sheldon) and Kevin Rose (Central). Branches that attended the competition were, Sheldon, Central, Leamington and Nuneaton . The Association is grateful to WO2 Eammon Gannon and WO2 Murray Richards for running the event.
The Swynnerton shotists
Normandy Day was celebrated on 6 Jun 09 in Nuneaton
and was attended by the Nuneaton and Sheldon Branches. This was followed
by the Nuneaton Branch Normandy Day Dinner on Saturday 13 June with Colonel
James Denny as the principle guest. Association members, A (Fusilier)
Company 4 MERCIAN and ACF Fusiliers took part in the Armed Forces Day
celebration in Birmingham on Saturday 27 June 09. The salute was taken
by Commander 143 (West Midlands) Brigade, Brigadier Mark Burnham who was
accompanied by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham , Councillor Michael Wilkes.
Area Headquarters celebrated the occasion by holding a re-enactment display
kindly given by the Birmingham Pals living history group enacting the
Royal Warwickshire Regiment during the Great War.
The Birmingham Branch organised the annual Somme Sunday Service at Aston Church on 5 July and attracted 50 members and their families, standard bearers from the other veteran’s organisations attended which was followed by an excellent lunch in the Parson and Clerk Hotel.
Within the HQ the team have been busy organising various committee meetings, visiting the Second Battalion casualties in Selly Oak Hospital and making a start on the arrangements for the Fusiliers Gathering 2010 in Warwickshire, which is now confirmed as taking place over the period 18/19 September 2010. Amongst the visitors to St John’s House were Captain John Lam on R & R from Afghanistan who joined us for lunch with Colonel Warwickshire and his committee on Monday 27 June 09. Planning is now well advanced for the Warwickshire Regimental Sunday on 11 October 09.
AREA HEADQUARTERS LONDON
At long last there is now a date for the final completion of the external refurbishment. All scaffolding and offending items will be gone by 25 Aug 09 and, of course, the cheque is in the post.
There have been several notable events during the month. On 8 June 09 the Red Cross held their annual Jailed & Bailed fundraising event. This entails senior people from the City of London joining the Lord Mayor for refreshments at Mansion House, which is then raided by the City Police. The assembled VIP’s are then charged with various crimes and carted off to the Tower of London . On arrival they are fitted with balls and chains and marched to Area Headquarters. Over lunch they have to use their mobiles to raise funds to obtain their release. The Red Cross raised £25k from this event. A most lucrative Museum Appeal Dinner was held on 18 June and there are plans to hold another one in December, hopefully with a famous Fusilier guest. The Fletchers Company held their annual shoot in the moat against the Bowyers Company on 1 July 09 followed by dinner in the Mess. 657 Sqn AAC held a dinner in the Mess on 2 July 09. The Resident Governor kindly agreed to this outside unit as it is currently commanded by Major Michael Keating son of Captain Bob Keating. Michael was selected for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel on the latest Pink List (ed: Bob, why didn’t he join the Fusiliers?)
Recruiting in London continues apace although the lack of bed spaces at ITC is starting to have a detrimental affect. The recruiters endeavour to bring all potential recruits to the Tower where the Area Secretary gives a short talk and shows them round the HQ and museum. It has been a busy month for cadets with a number of inspections and dinners taking place. Haberdasher’s Askes Federation CCF at Lewisham held their annual inspection on 19 June 09 where the Area Secretary accompanied the inspecting officer Colonel D E King OBE, Colonel Cadets from HQ London District. Captain Matt Clark, together with the RST from Hounslow provided excellent regimental support. The Area Secretary was also able to visit the contingent at their annual camp at Wathgill Camp near Catterick on 2 July 09. Their namesake, Haberdashers Askes School CCF at Elstree sent a large number of Cadets to visit the Tower on 2 July 09 to look around the Museum and receive their hackles from the Area Colonel, Colonel Nigel Easton. Colonel Easton attended the contingent dinner later that evening at the RAF Club in Piccadilly where he was the guest speaker. The Area Secretary attended the St Dunstans College CCF contingent dinner in Catford on 27 June 09. At this dinner, the Chairman of the Board of Governors, Alderman Sir Paul Judge, was delighted to invite the Master of Marketors Company to formally sign the scroll to link the contingent with the Company. The Chairman was himself an ex cadet at the school and also a Past Master of the Marketors.
The Association continues to hold Branch reunions in the Mess, which are very well attended. The City of London Branch also organised an extremely good dinner at Balham Drill Hall on 27 June 09 to commemorate Veterans Day.
Finally Prince William visited the Tower and the Headquarters on 6 July in his capacity of Patron of Skillforce. Skillforce is an educational charity which helps disengaged youths 14-16 years in secondary school and its CEO is Lieutenant Colonel Peter Cross. To continue the Fusiliers interest Brigadier David Biggart is the Assistant Fundraising Director who was responsible for all the arrangements for the visit.
AREA HQ LANCASHIRE After five years hard work and a spend of £4.2 million the Fusilier Museum opened its doors to the public on Saturday 27 June 09, Armed Forces Day. There was considerable media interest and just under 1,000 people turned up on the day to explore the new museum.
Col Gorski & team
Technically this was a “soft opening” as the formal opening will take place on Friday 25 Sept 09, preceding the Fusilier gathering. Friday the 25 Sep will also witness the unveiling of the refurbished Fusilier Monument by Lord Ridley the grandson of the famous architect Sir Edwin Lutyens.
Saturday was a full and fun day. It was given grand
support by the Regimental family with several events taking place in and
around the museum. The first event was a presentation by Stagecoach Metrolink
of a replica nameplate off the Lancashire Fusilier tram. The official
opening of the Tourist Information Centre by Councillor Sheila Magnall
the Mayor of Bury followed this. Not to be missed out the staff of the
new Bury ACIO completed their first three attestations.
In the newly christened Normandy Room there were displays by the Regimental Recruiting Team, the Fusilier Platoon from the Castle Armoury, the Fusilier Band Lancashire, Friends of the Museum, the ABF, SSAFA and LF web site in the Internet cafe.
Both the new shop and café were operating. The best selling items from the shop were chocolate hand grenades, bullet key rings and cuddly meerkats! The Friends also produced a WWII Willys Jeep, a six-pounder anti-tank gun and a 2 ½ ton GMC Truck which were parked on the pavement outside the museum much to the confusion of the local traffic wardens who decided not to get involved as they were out gunned. In addition to the RRF and LF Galleries the museum opened with two temporary displays. One is portraits from hand painted miniatures to “happy snaps,” while the other was on the Regiment in Northern Ireland . This was particularly well received with the general comment that it is frightening to think that this is now history! An exhibition focusing on 2RRF in Afghanistan will replace this.
There is still a great deal to do. The next few months will see displays completed, staff trained and the museum moving to operate on a fully commercial basis. Finally, sincere thanks must go to all those in RHQ, the other AHQs/Museums and the Battalions for giving this project their full support and cooperation. Without you it would not have been possible.
FUSILIER AID SOCIETY
In the quarter April to June 2009 the following amounts have been paid out in grants to both discharged and serving members of the Regimental family and their dependents:
58 Aid Society Grants: £19,827
On behalf of the Lancashire Fusiliers: £2,998
On behalf of the Army Benevolent Fund: £1,058
In these demanding times any member of the Regiment, serving or retired, who is taking part in charitable fund raising, might want to think about including a percentage of their donations to the Fusiliers Aid Society. In the same vein bequests to the Aid Society will be put to good use.
NOTICES
CATT 500 FUNDRAISER – LT COL MARTIN TRAVERS AND MAJOR TONY GAWTHORPE
Lt Col Martin Travers and Maj Tony Gawthorpe (SO1 and SO2 Infantry respectively at CATT (G)) have committed themselves to a series of endurance events over the next year or so. Their aim is to accumulate in excess of 500 miles by foot, bike, ski and boat and raise £20 for every mile they cover. Any money raised will be split equally between the Fusilier Aid Society, Cancer Research UK and BLESMA. So far they have completed 98 miles, and have raised a total of £3500. They have set the bar quite high with a target of £10000, and would therefore welcome any donation, however small. The easiest way to make a donation is on-line, at the following link: https://www.bmycharity.com/V2/MartinTravers The web page describes the CATT 500 events, its aims and the supported charities. Note that they are hoping that some of you will join them for some of the events (in fact rumour has it that the Regtl Sec has expressed an interest in the Scotland coast to coast event…(ed; he has clearly heard a false rumour!)
THE OFFICERS’ ANNUAL REGIMENTAL DINNER
Attendance
Attendance at the Regimental Dinner is open to all serving Regular, TA and Cadet Force officers of the Regiment, and to retired Regimental officers whether they are members of the Dinner Club or not. In addition, officers of other Arms and Regiments currently serving with our battalions are welcome to attend.
Guests
In addition to the official Regimental guests, officers may invite private guests. The cost for private guests will be £60.00 per head.
Dress
Black Tie with miniatures.
Cost
The cost of the Reception and Dinner (including wines) to those officers attending will be:
a. Dinner Club members: £40.00. b. Non-Dinner Club members and private guests: £60.00.
Overnight Accommodation
No overnight accommodation is available within HM Tower of London . Members of the Dinner Club who intend to stay at the Army and Navy Club will be provided with transport from and back to the “Rag”. Officers who do intend to stay overnight at the “Rag” and would like transport are requested to inform the Assistant Regimental Secretary.
Application Forms The application for attendance is by individual return of the tear-off proforma which immediately follows this article. It should be sent to RHQ by no later than Friday 16 October 2009. Application must be accompanied by a cheque for the appropriate amount made payable to “THE FUSILIERS FUND”
THE OFFICERS ANNUAL REGIMENTAL DINNER APPLICATION FORM
Address…………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………Post Code………………………….
e mail address…………………………………………………………………………..
Telephone Numbers:
Landline………………………………….. Mobile……………………………………...
To: Assistant Regimental Secretary Regimental Headquarters The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers HM Tower of London LONDON EC3N 4AB
I would like to attend the Annual Regimental Dinner at HM Tower of London on Thursday 29 October 2009.
I enclose a personal cheque for £…………………… payable to “THE FUSILIERS FUND” in respect of:
a. ………….. x Dinner Club Member(s) @ £40.00 each
b. ………….. x Non-Dinner Club Member(s) @ £60.00 each
Signature……………………………………………………………………..
Returns to RHQ by no later than Friday 16 October 2009 please.
I R Liles OBE Brigadier (Retd) Regimental Secretary |
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Date: 01 Jul 09 Released by: PR(A) THE ELIZABETH CROSS AND MEMORIAL SCROLL ISSUE 1. On 01 Jul 09 the Secretary of State for Defence
announced in Parliament Her Majesty TARGET AUDIENCE 4. The Elizabeth Cross and a Memorial Scroll will be
presented to the deceased's Next 5. In a message to her Armed Forces, Her Majesty The Queen said: "This seems to me a right and proper way of showing our enduring debt to those who are killed while actively protecting what is most dear to us all. The solemn dignity which we attach to the names of those who have fallen is deeply engrained in our national character. As a people, we accord this ultimate sacrifice the highest honour and respect." 6. The Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth said: "We owe so much to those who have died to protect our country and our way of life. The Elizabeth Cross was recommended by the military Chiefs to Her Majesty to recognise the huge debt this country owes to the families those brave individuals have left behind." 7. The Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, said: "I know that the families of those who have given their lives will wear the Elizabeth Cross with immense pride. It is a reminder not just of the ultimate price their loved ones have paid while safeguarding our security and freedom; it is also a lasting symbol of the nation's recognition of and gratitude for their sacrifice." 8. The Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Richard Dannatt, said: "Nothing can replace a loved one who has died on operations, but I welcome the institution of the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll as symbols that the nation recognises their sacrifice and shares in their loss. With the passing of time I hope that the families of soldiers who have given their lives in the service of Queen and Country will be able to draw a measure of pride and comfort from this tangible expression of our debt to them." BACKGROUND 10. The Elizabeth Cross, recommended by the Chiefs
of Staff, has been welcomed by 11. The Elizabeth Cross is made of hallmarked silver
and is in the form of a cross with a 12. The Memorial Scroll is on parchment style paper,
headed with the Royal Coat of 13. Eligible personnel to be remembered in this way
are those who were serving with, " Those who died from whatever cause whilst serving on a medal earning operation. " Medal earning operations are those in which deployed personnel received a Campaign Medal, General Service Medal or Operational Service Medal which demonstrated the risk and rigour involved. Operations where a UN, NATO or other international body or other nations' campaign medal was accepted for wear, in the absence of a UK medal also qualify. " Those who died as a result of an act of terrorism where the available evidence suggests that the Service person, whether on or off duty, was targeted because of his or her membership of the UK Armed Forces. " Those who died on a non-medal earning operational task where death has been caused by the inherent high risk of the task. " Those who died a subsequent and premature death as a result of an injury or illness attributed to the circumstances outlined above. " Deaths that occurred after 1 January 1948, or as a result of service in Palestine since 27 September 1945 will be recognised retrospectively. These dates reflect the fact that the Commonwealth War Graves Commission attributed deaths up to 1 January 1948 to World War II service (with the exception of Palestine). 14. This is just a summary of the details and more
information can be found in DIN POINTS OF CONTACT
ADDITIONAL RECOGNITION FOR THE FAMILIES OF SERVICE PERSONNEL WHO DIE ON OPERATIONS The then Secretary of State for Defence, the Rt Hon Des Browne, informed the House on 10 June 2008 of plans to introduce a new national form of recognition for the families of those Armed Forces personnel who die on operations or as a result of terrorist activity whilst on duty. These plans were based on the recommendations of the military Chiefs of Staff. The Secretary of State said that the recognition would be in the form of an emblem for wear and a memorial scroll similar in concept to those that were issued to the families of those who died in the two World Wars and in Korea in the early 1950s. Much detailed work has been undertaken since that announcement. We had hoped to provide more details before now but there were sensitive and complex issues involved which required much time to work through. I am pleased to be able to announce further details of this recognition to the House today. These details, recommended by the Chiefs of Staff, have been welcomed by MOD Ministers, endorsed by the cross-Government Committee on Honours and Awards and approved by Her Majesty The Queen. In particular, I am delighted to inform the House that Her Majesty has asked that the emblem should be known as the Elizabeth Cross. The Elizabeth Cross is made of hallmarked silver and
is in the form of a cross with laurel wreath passing between the arms.
The arms of the cross bear floral symbols representing England (Rose),
Scotland (Thistle), Ireland (Shamrock) and Wales (Daffodil). The centre
of the Cross bears the crowned Cypher of Her Majesty The Queen. The reverse
of the Cross will be engraved with the name of the Service person in whose
memory it is granted. A miniature version of the Elizabeth Cross will
also be granted. Both will be presented in a black leather style presentation
box with the Royal Cypher on the lid and the Royal Coat of Arms on the
inner silk lining. The Elizabeth Cross and Scroll will be granted in national
recognition of their loss and sacrifice to the Next of Kin of UK Armed
Forces personnel who have died on operations or as a result of an act
of terrorism. Eligible personnel to be remembered in this way are those
who were serving with, or former members of, the Regular and Reserve Armed
Forces or the Royal Fleet Auxiliary when deployed in direct support of
a designated operation. It is important to make the distinction that this
is not a posthumous medal for the fallen but national recognition for
the family for their loss. " Those who died from whatever cause whilst serving
on a medal earning operation. Medal earning operations are those in which
deployed personnel received a Campaign Medal, General Service Medal or
Operational Service Medal which demonstrated the risk and rigour involved.
Operations where a UN, NATO or other international body or other nations'
campaign medal was accepted for wear, in the absence of a UK medal, also
qualify. In addition to recognising future operational deaths in this way, deaths in the circumstances outlined above that occurred after 1 January 1948, or as a result of service in Palestine since 27 September 1945, will be recognised retrospectively. These dates reflect the fact that the Commonwealth War Graves Commission attributed deaths up to 1 January 1948 to World War II service (with the exception of Palestine). The Next of Kin will receive both the Elizabeth Cross and the Memorial Scroll. For retrospective claims and when the Next of Kin is deceased, their legal successor may apply. Only one Elizabeth Cross is to be granted for each death recognised but an additional Scroll will be available to the following (or their legal successors) where they are not the Next of Kin: " The parents of the deceased. " The spouse/partner of the deceased or someone who had a substantive relationship with the deceased. As a Memorial Scroll was issued at the time to those who died in the Korean War, the Elizabeth Cross only (and not the new Scroll) will be issued in remembrance of those who died during that war. As with all forms of recognition, there will be those who fall outside the qualifying criteria. There is a risk involved in much of what the Armed Forces does routinely. Some members of the Armed Forces sadly die, for example, in training incidents or in road accidents in the United Kingdom. While any death is a tragic loss to the family concerned and to the Armed Forces, the Chiefs of Staff recommended this new recognition for the special circumstances of operational duty. In addition they considered that the terrible circumstances where an individual was targeted by terrorists because of their membership of the Armed Forces should be similarly recognised. The first Elizabeth Crosses and Memorial Scrolls will
be granted from one month today on 1 August 2009. From today, families
of those who died in qualifying circumstances are invited to apply for
the Elizabeth Cross and Scroll to the MOD Medal Office, who will administer
the scheme. It is simply not possible to contact the families of all those
who may be eligible going back over 50 years as address details held for
Next of Kin are likely to be out of date.
Full details of how to apply, including an application form, can be found via the MOD website at www.mod.uk/defenceinternet/defencefor/veterans/medals/, while those without access to the internet may call 0800 085 3600 and ask for details to be sent to them. For new qualifying deaths after 1 August 2009, it is intended that, in most cases, the Next of Kin will be offered the opportunity for the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll to be presented privately and in an appropriate way at the time of the funeral if they so wish. For retrospective cases, Next of Kin who are resident in the UK will be offered the opportunity to receive the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll at a formal presentation ceremony in the region where they live. Such presentations may be made by a Lord Lieutenant or a senior military representative. It is likely to be some months before these events are arranged as locations will very much depend on the number of recipients living in a particular region and we cannot establish this until applications are received. If they prefer, families may choose to receive the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll by recorded delivery. Next of Kin living overseas will normally receive the Cross and Scroll in this way. We owe a great debt of gratitude to the men and women who serve in our Armed Forces and who have done so in the past. That debt extends to the families who support them and who bear the burden whilst loved ones are deployed away from home. I am delighted that the families of those who sadly die in the circumstances that I have described are now to receive some tangible evidence of the nation's gratitude in the form of the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll. Members will be able to view the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll from this afternoon in the Library of the House.
THE ELIZABETH CROSS AND MEMORIAL SCROLL Q1. What recognition will the families receive? The Next of Kin will be granted the Elizabeth Cross (and miniature) to wear and a Memorial Scroll. Q2. Why is it called the Elizabeth Cross? Her Majesty The Queen felt that this new recognition was a right and proper way of demonstrating our enduring debt to those who are killed while actively protecting what is most dear to us all and asked that the emblem should be known as the Elizabeth Cross. Q3. Who will receive the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll? As a mark of national recognition, the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll are to be granted to the Next of Kin of UK Armed Forces personnel who have died on a medal earning operation, or as a result of an act of terrorism, since 1 Jan 48. For retrospective claims, when the Next of Kin is deceased, their legal successors may apply. Only one Elizabeth Cross (and miniature) will be granted but an additional Memorial Scroll may be available, for example to the parents when the Elizabeth Cross and Scroll have been granted to the spouse/partner. Q4. Which deaths will be eligible to be recognised in this way? The Elizabeth Cross and a Memorial Scroll will be presented to the next of Kin (NOK) of Armed Forces personnel who have died on operations or as a result of an act of terrorism in national recognition of their loss and sacrifice. Eligible personnel to be remembered in this way are those who were serving with or former members of: a. The Regular and Reserve Armed Forces. b. The Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) . As a Memorial Scroll was issued at the time to the NOK of those who died in the Korean War, the Elizabeth Cross only (and not the new Scroll) will be issued in remembrance of those who died during that war. Q5. What are the qualifying circumstances? The Next of Kin of eligible personnel whose deaths fall into the following categories will qualify: a. Death from whatever cause while serving on a medal earning operation. Medal earning operations are those in which deployed personnel received a Campaign Medal, General Service Medal or Operational Service Medal which recognised the risk and rigour involved. Operations where a UN, NATO, other international body or other nations' campaign medal was given formal permission to be accepted for wear, in the absence of a UK medal, also qualify. b. Death as a result of an act of terrorism where the available evidence suggests that the Service person, whether on or off duty, was targeted because of his or her membership of the UK Armed Forces. c. Death on a non-medal earning operational task where the death has been caused by the inherent high risk of the task . d. Subsequent and premature death as a result of injury or illness attributed to the circumstances outlined in paragraphs a to c above. e. Death in the circumstances outlined in sub-paragraphs a to d as a result of an incident that occurred after 1 Jan 48, or as a result of service in Palestine between 27 Sep 45 and 31 Dec 47 . Q6. Will more than one family member be entitled to receive the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll? What about separated families? The registered Next of Kin will be granted a Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll. An additional Memorial Scroll will be available to the following: a. The parents of the deceased, or; b. The spouse or partner of the deceased or someone who had a 'substantive' relationship with the deceased, where one exists. For example, the parents may apply for a Memorial Scroll when the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll have been granted to the spouse or partner, and vice versa. Normally only a total of two Memorial Scrolls will be issued, including that granted to the Next of Kin. Q7. What about those who die on training in preparation for operations? Deaths on training will not be eligible unless they take place during a medal earning operation. Q8. What will the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll look like? The Elizabeth Cross is made of hallmarked silver and is in the form of a cross with a laurel wreath passing between the arms. The arms of the cross bear floral symbols of England (Rose), Scotland (Thistle), Ireland (Shamrock) and Wales (Daffodil). The centre of the Cross bears the crowned Cypher of Her Majesty The Queen. The reverse of the Cross will be engraved with the name of the Service person in whose memory it is granted. A miniature version of the Elizabeth Cross will also be granted. Both will be presented in a black leather style presentation box with the Royal Cypher on the lid and the Royal Coat of Arms on the inner silk lining.
(Click on the Cross or Scroll to see them enlarged)
This Scroll Commemorates on… The Scroll will bear the signature of Her Majesty The Queen in the upper left hand corner.
We are inviting applications for the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll from today and the first will be available from 1 Aug 09. From that date, the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll will be available to be presented to the families of any new personnel who subsequently die in qualifying circumstances. In addition, the MOD Medal Office will begin writing to the Next of Kin of those who have died in qualifying circumstances since Jan 00 to inform them of their eligibility, where up-to-date contact details are available. Q10. Will the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll be formally presented to families? For all qualifying deaths the Next of Kin who are resident in the UK will be offered the choice of whether they wish to receive the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll via Recorded Delivery post or whether they would prefer to attend a formal presentation ceremony attended by a senior military representative and the appropriate Lord Lieutenant. It is too early to give any further details of these events. It may be some months before an event is arranged in any particular region. Next of Kin living overseas will normally expect to receive the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll by Registered Post, although it may be possible and appropriate in some locations for Defence Attachés to be involved. For new qualifying deaths after 1 Aug 09, Next of Kin will, in most cases, be offered the opportunity to have the Elizabeth Cross and Memorial Scroll presented privately at the time of the funeral if they wish. Q11. Will recognition extend to those wounded or injured on operations? Those who are injured deserve our greatest support and the best way that we can do this is by providing them with the proper medical and other care they need. After much deliberation, which included consultation within their Services, the Chiefs of Staff decided not to recommend additional recognition for those wounded or injured on operations. There is no evidence of a widespread desire for such an award within the Armed Forces. |
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FUSILIER NEWS Regimental Headquarters The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers HM Tower of London London EC3N 4AB Tel: 020-3166-6909 Fax: 020-3166-6920 E-mail: rhq@thefusiliers.org
RHQ/RRF/1363 8 May 2009
END OF OPERATIONS IN IRAQ
As 2 RRF deployed and assumed OPCON in Helmund Province, Afghanistan, CGS wrote to the Chain of Command announcing the cessation of operations in Iraq. His letter is attached. (letter at bottom of of this news sheet )
BATTALION AND AREA UPDATES 1RRF
Having returned well-rested from three weeks of Easter Leave the First Battalion has settled into another period of cadres, designed to maximise the number of qualified vehicle crews for the upcoming LWC role. Simultaneously W Company have begun Support Weapons cadres, with 2 weeks on exercise to look forward to during what promises to be a damp German Spring!
The Battalion, however, was fortunate to have an extremely warm St George’s Day, which saw all ranks – wives, children and dogs included - making the most of the free BBQ and beer. W Company narrowly triumphed over Y Company in the Newcastle Cup, with some excellent skills displayed by all of the teams involved. The Officers’ vs Sergeants’ Mess Tug-of-War proved equally hard fought, though the RSM’s team emerged victorious thanks to their well practiced techniques.
Subsequently, 150 members of 1 RRF travelled over to
Swynnerton Camp, Staffordshire, for a week of Freedom Parades and “Welcome
Home” Parades throughout Warwickshire. Although the 18 hour coach
journeys were rather painful, the week itself was extremely successful.
Fusiliers from the local area and other “Satisfied Soldiers”
worked alongside the Regimental Recruiting Team and Careers Offices in
order to capitalise on the occasion, whilst the remainder of the troops
honed their drill under the Sgt Majors’ watchful eyes. The parades
in Coventry, Rugby, Nuneaton, Leamington Spa and Stratford Upon Avon were
all exceptionally well supported by the local population, with Police
estimating that 10,000 people lined the streets in both Stratford and
Leamington. These events received a great deal of media coverage, and
were very gratifying for all involved. The Battalion was very well hosted
by the various Local Councils, all of whom were grateful for the Regiment’s
Operational service and equally supportive of 2 RRF’s current deployment
to Afghanistan. The Right Honourable Bob Ainsworth, the Armed Forces Minister,
attended the Freedom Parade in Coventry.
The Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess have also recently dined-out Capt Jim Dear, who has now been replaced by RSM Robinson, whilst the Officers’ Mess hosted the new 7 Brigade Commander, Brigadier Welch OBE, at a Ladies Dinner Night.
In the coming weeks Z Company will be training in CATT (G) whilst the Battalion undergoes various inspections and prepares for the Brigade and British Army (Germany) Skill At Arms Meetings, which it is hosting at Sennelager.
2 RRF
A comprehensive report from Afghanistan is attached. Monthly updates will be included in all Fusilier News editions until October 09. Below is an extract from in Theatre Press describing how 2 RRF celebrated St George’s Day:
‘Troops on the front line in Afghanistan have
celebrated St George's Day in their traditional fashion - and taken the
fight to the Taliban the same day.
Ever since the four County Fusilier battalions amalgamated
in 1968 to form the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, all ranks on 23 April
have worn red and white roses behind their cap badge. And this year, even
though the 2nd Battalion has just begun a six month tour of Afghanistan,
the troops maintained that tradition on the frontline in Helmund Province.
2 RRF, which is based in Hounslow, has just taken over as the Battle Group
North West, responsible for the area around the strategically important
town of Musa Qaleh in the north of Helmund Province. 5 RRF
The last month has seen 5RRF involved in a variety of activities. The main training effort remains focused on preparing for Annual Camp as OPFOR on Ex GRAND PRIX 3 in Kenya for 2 RANGLIAN Battle Group.
The Delta Platoon in Kabul, commanded by Lt Dunn X Coy, has been reinforced with 2 SNCOs from Z Company, CSgt Smith and CSgt Thompson, and 2 Riflemen from D Coy. They are now fully manned and have settled in well to their role as the ISAF FP Pl. CSgt Gallagher, the continuity PSI, returns home at the end of April which allows the TA Chain of Command to get on with business without a mentor. The Platoon has been very busy with over 60 patrols under their belt in the first 3 months and several difficult incidents to deal with. Rifleman Jonny Gwynne, D Company 5RRF, continues writing a blog which can be found at the following website: http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/features/blogs/reader/afghanistan/
Maj David Snaith remains deployed as a Liaison Officer to the US HQ in Basra, and 3 Soldiers from the Mortar Platoon have deployed with 2RRF to Afghanistan.
The Main Recce for Annual Camp took part in the beginning of April. The Recce party was made up of; the TM, QM, Sigs PSI (CSgt Coakley) and SPSI D Company (WO2 Jones). The 2 weeks were spent on exercise as observer controllers for 1 GREN GDS. Although extremely hard work in the main, there was time to relax and a recce was carried out for the R&R package for the main body that deploys in Oct 09.
Unfortunately the Battalion were unable to celebrate St George’s day with a parade this year as all the town councils north of the Tyne are now part of one large Unitary Council of Northumberland, and were unable to find the funding to pay for the security of a Public event (next year’s parade is already in the diary and funding has been agreed by the Council). To ensure the traditions of the day were not forgotten by the Battalion, St George’s Weekend was marked by a combined Officer’s and WO’s dinner at D Company Drill Hall. There was also an all ranks and families ramble across part of Hadrian’s Wall, followed by an all ranks and families afternoon social at Z Company in Ashington. The usual Regimental Functions were enjoyed by all at X Company in the Assembly Rooms in Newcastle.
Next month sees the Battalion taking the lead role in the Brigade Skill at Arms Meeting at Catterick and it is hoped that the shooting team, under Sgt Fenwick, will bring back plenty of silver to restock the display cabinets. The TM and QM travel to Germany for the next planning round for Kenya and the Battalion begins ramping up its Collective Training Programme for 2009.
A (Fusilier) Company 4 MERCIAN
The Company remains busy with the highlight of training in April being a live firing exercise in Warcop which witnessed the OC and CQMS team up on pair fire and manoeuvre. Both were highly impressed with themselves for still being fast across the ground and deadly accurate with their fire (Ed: their words not mine!). The weekend culminated with an assault course and abseil, which blew away any remaining cobwebs, and a pistol shoot at which 2Lt Middleton won best shot. Highly satisfying to see a Fusilier being presented the prize amongst a far greater number of Mercians.
In recognition of the fact that A (Fusilier) Company are the only company in 4 Mercian to reach or exceed its manning levels, the Coy has been given permission to form an additional Rifle Platoon. Until now additional Fusiliers had been held against other Company LSNs. One of the major advantages will be that deserving Fusiliers and JNCOs can now be promoted once they have completed the obligatory 2 week cadre in Brecon; every silver lining has a cloud!
Reports from Maj Carter on HERRICK are that Normandy Company are performing well, operating at half company level out on the ground. They have received 30 RAF Regiment personnel and additional vehicles to increase capability. With poppy harvesting coming to a close they will soon become increasingly busy.
4 MERCIAN are forming a Corps of Drums and it is the intention of A (Fusilier) Company to form the back bone. To maintain the Fusilier presence and prevent Fusilier drummers being dressed as Mercians the Company needs any spare drums, uniforms or other kit that is currently not in use. All donations will be very gratefully received (Ed: RHQ will lead on the drums issue).
Machine Gun Platoon 4th Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment
TA soldiers from Bury have been taking part in a wide range of operations in recent months, in support of Regular Army counterparts and as formed units.
Seven Fusiliers recently returned from Op HERRICK, where they formed part of the 4 LANCS Force Protection Platoon in Kabul. Sgt Brady, LCpl Day, Fusilier’s Tse, Worseley, Shambayati, Taylor, and Axon were all involved in securing the ISAF HQ, along with 35 other TA soldiers from the Battalion.
As soon as the Fusiliers got back from Kabul, another wave of Fusiliers deployed on Op TOSCA, this time as part of the 2 Div formed regiment, based in Nicosia. They have all just returned to the UK, and are currently enjoying their POTL before returning to normal life. Those not wanting to return to normal life are currently deploying with 2RRF to Afghanistan. Nine Fusiliers are currently going through the process of engagement under an FTRS (Full Time Reserve Service) arrangement and are all looking forward to deploying with their Regular Army brothers in the 2nd Battalion.
In spite, or because of, all the operational deployments, the Fusiliers Machine Gun Platoon continues to grow, with Cpl Simpson, LCpl Carroll, LCpl Ledger, and the rest of the team building it up through intense recruiting and training. The new Platoon Commander, Lt Pete Donaldson has joined from one of the King’s Companies, to provide essential leadership for the forthcoming busy period.
Freedom and Homecoming Parades. The month of April has been dominated by the planning for the Freedom of Coventry Parade and the four Homecoming Parades in Warwickshire. Support from the public on all occasions was superb, with full press coverage including ITV Central News in Nuneaton and local radio interviews with the Colonel and Fusiliers from the West Midlands. The weather was kind which certainly helped to bring out the very large crowds to all the events.
The Freedom of Coventry commanded by Lt Col Jim Landon attracted the attention of The Minister of State for the Armed Forces Mr Bob Ainsworth MP who inspected No 2 Guard whilst the Colonel accompanied by the Lord Mayor of Coventry inspected No 1 Guard. Members of Parliament attended Nuneaton and Leamington Parades commanded by Major Paul Morris and certainly enjoyed the opportunity to take part in the inspection. The Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire and Colonel Richard Cariss as Deputy Lieutenant carried out the inspections at Rugby and Nuneaton with Colonel James Denny and civic heads. Colonel Warwickshire was accompanied by the Vice Lord Lieutenant, Chief Constable and High Sheriff at Leamington and the Deputy Lieutenant in Stratford Upon Avon. The most generous hospitality given by all civic heads at the receptions was appreciated by all the Fusiliers and guests.
The Fusiliers on parade supported by the Drums Platoon & Minden Band made a tremendous impact on all who witnessed the parades along with meeting guests and well wishers after the events at the various civic receptions. Help for Heroes conducted bucket collections in Rugby, Nuneaton and Leamington Spa which attracted excellent support from the spectators. Branches of the Regimental Association formed No 3 Guard in Coventry and provided route liners at the Homecoming Parades, they and representatives of the many other service organisations and the Army Cadet Force all helped to reinforce the strong connections with the Regiment in Warwickshire and the West Midlands.
Regimental Association in Warwickshire. The Annual General Meeting attended by 28 members of the Association was held in St John’s House on Saturday 25th April which was followed by lunch in the Bowling Green Public House. The meeting was chaired by Lieutenant Colonel Keith Whiteman having taken over from Colonel Martin Jones last November. The Branches continue to meet regularly. Dates to remember are:
6 June 2009 Friends of the Museum Normandy Day BBQ St John’s House. 6 June 2009 Nuneaton Branch Normandy Day Dinner 5 July 2009 Birmingham Branch Somme Sunday Service Aston Church 4/5 July 2009 Sheldon Branch trip to Severn Valley Railway 15 August 2009 Nuneaton Branch Skittles Night
Regimental Museum. An excellent museum fund raising
concert was held at St Mary’s Church Warwick on Saturday 25 April
followed by a dinner and auction. The Minden Band provided the guests,
as always, with a most memorable evening, which significantly helped to
achieve our target of raising £5000.
AREA HQ LONDON
The external refurbishment of the Headquarters continues apace and is due to be finished in July with the scaffolding being removed by September. It cannot come to soon as the noise and dust is at times unbearable and with no natural light it is like living in a submarine (Ed: or being a mushroom!).
The Museum has achieved the first round pass for a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant and the HQ is now able to initiate an activity plan and prepare design and development proposals. The Chief Clerk, Mr Kelleher has refurbished two Drum Major Maces to a very high standard one of which is a narwhal tusk. It is planned to display them in the dining room.
Recruiting is going extremely well and a number of potential recruits have visited the headquarters with their recruiting Sergeants.
As a result of the meeting held in January for all London ACF/CCF detachments, the 2nd Battalion have developed a matrix that picks up all the points and requests made. This has ensured that a very high level of support now takes place for all affiliated detachments. At the same meeting it was suggested that a cadet branch of the Association be formed and this was enthusiastically agreed upon. The HQ is canvassing to see what level of support the idea will achieve. Col James Denny accompanied by Maj Colin Bowes-Crick attended the Mill Hill School CCF annual inspection on 29 April and were treated to a fine display of drill and other skills. The school Corps of Drums led the parade at the Cenotaph the previous week on St George’s Day. The 103 Detachment Corps of Drums goes from strength to strength and are able to produce extremely good displays. They have received excellent support from the 2nd Battalion Corps of Drums and have had a number of jam sessions with them.
London Area has an extremely good group of buglers, which will expand into a full corps of drums under the auspices of the Association. There are a number of volunteers already from the TA and cadets as well as some retired Fusiliers; we look forward to this Corps being on parade for Minden Day.
AREA HQ LANCASHIRE
Gallipoli Weekend. The Regiment celebrated the 94th
anniversary of the Gallipoli Landing in fine style over the weekend of
the 25/26 April. The commemoration coincided with the move of the Lancashire
Headquarters and the Museum. The weekend went exceedingly well and saw
the largest parade in Bury on Gallipoli Sunday for many years. The weekend
commenced with a meeting of the Directors of the Fusilier Museum, followed
by the Regimental Council for Lancashire. The meetings took place in the
new Regimental Council Chamber and Mrs Glover needs a special mention
for spending all of the previous weekend cleaning the new Headquarters
in preparation. The Sunday commenced with a parade and inspection in the
Castle Armoury. There were over 300 on parade composed of the Association,
the TA Fusilier Platoon, the CCF from Bury Grammar School, the Sea Cadet
Corps including cadets from the Training Ship Euryalus, who had travelled
all the way from Oxford for the day, and a particularly fine turnout from
the Army Cadet Force.
The parade was inspected by, Colonel Brian Gorski, ably assisted by the Regimental Secretary Brigadier Ian Liles, Commander 42 North West Brigade, Brigadier Bill Aldridge, Colonel London, Colonel Nigel Easton and Colonel Jim Martlew. The parade concluded with a presentation of the Regimental Certificate to Tom Bailey of the Rochdale Branch. Following the Church service and March Past the Association and regimental guests retired to the Elizabethan Suite of Bury Town Hall for lunch. The day concluded with a guided tour of the new museum and Headquarters.
New Museum and Headquarters. The start of the month witnessed the move of the Lancashire Headquarters and the contents of the Museum to the new site on Moss Street from Wellington Barracks. In all some 1,500 boxes and packages including furniture had to be prepared, catalogued and transported to the new site. It was a complex and difficult move that would have been impossible without the assistance of volunteers and long hours of extra work by the permanent staff. Although everything has moved, both the Headquarters and Museum are a way from being complete as the building still requires a considerable amount of work, boxes remain to be unpacked, offices established and new working procedures implemented. It will take several weeks to get back to the routine and efficiency experienced at Wellington Barracks. Since the move Area HQ has hosted nearly 500 people in group visits, which is nearly a quarter of the annual visitor numbers experienced at Wellington Barracks. The programme now is to open to the public on Saturday 27 June 2009, Armed Forces Day, with the official opening on Friday 25 September as part of the 2009 Fusilier Gathering in Bury.
New contact details for Lancashire HQ are:
Lancashire HQ RRF Moss Street Bury BL9 0DF
Telephone: 0161-763-8969 e mail: fusilierslancshq@btinternet.com
Fusilier Beer Festival. The Headquarters is moving on from raising funds for the Museum Appeal to gathering funds to sustain the Museum. The week following the Gallipoli Weekend saw a beer festival in the Elizabethan Suite of the Town Hall. The aim was to promote the Museum Project and raise funds and it achieved success on both counts. There were several beers brewed especially for the event including RRF Bitter. An overall success it has paved the way to repeat the exercise next year. Neville Crompton and the volunteers from the Campaign for Real Ale deserve praise for their hard work and support to the Regiment.
Gallipoli Garden. The bid to rename Sparrow Park in Bury to Gallipoli Garden has had Council approval and has now gone to public consultation. It is appropriate to state that without the support of Bury Metropolitan Borough Council the Fusilier Museum Project would not have got off the ground and on behalf of Colonel Brian Gorski and all members of the Steering Group warm and sincere thanks go to the Council and the People of Bury.
NOTICES
Cocktail Party. This is another reminder that the Regimental Cocktail Party will be held on 25 June at 1800 hours in the Tower of London. The Minden Band and Lancashire Association Corps of Drums will perform and the evening will conclude with a full beating of retreat. Tickets are available through John Davis at RHQ. Order early, you know it makes sense!
Regimental PRI. As a reminder, the Regimental PRI outlet
is now run by 5 RRF. They hold a varied stock of all Regimental items,
a full list of which will be published in the next Fusilier News.
I R Liles OBE Brigadier (Retd) Regimental Secretary
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 FUSILIER NEWS Regimental Headquarters The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers HM Tower of London London EC3N 4AB Tel: 0203-166-6909 Fax: 0203-166-6920 E-mail: rhq@thefusiliers.org RHQ/RRF/1363 8 April 2009 1 RRF With Post Operational Leave a distant memory, First Fusiliers have settled into their 'Recuperation Phase.' The highlight of March was the 3 Rifle Companies deploying to Sennelager Training Centre for 2 weeks of low-level Company training. With the advent of Whole Fleet Management it required the 3 Companies to share a Companies worth of vehicles between them for 4 days each - for the remainder of the time it was back to basics with section and platoon level attacks and patrolling. The weather in Sennelager lived up to its reputation and it was suitably cold and wet as the Fusiliers re-introduced themselves to alternative forms of transport and life without the ubiquitous 'BV'. As ever, it wasn't all work and the training was interspersed with a Survival weekend for Z Company (not many Wichity grubs in Northern Germany) and parachuting for X Company. The 2 weeks were also notable for the plethora of potential officers who descended upon the Companies; keen and enthusiastic to a man, they provided some much needed manpower to the Rifle Platoons! Other notable events for March have included a lunch in the Officers' Mess to say farewell to Commander 7 Brigade, Brigadier Sandy Storrie OBE. The farewell to the Commander also included a Charity Boxing Night in Hohne, for which 1 RRF provided three boxers, all of whom acquitted themselves admirably and certainly whetted the appetite for the forthcoming Hart's Medals. The 1 RRF tour of major sporting events continued with
First Fusiliers providing 3 soldiers as well as 10 Drummers for the Calcutta
Cup Rugby Union match on the 21 March at Twickenham. They were hosted
by the England Rugby Football Union and given a fantastic reception by
an appreciative crowd. HRH The Princess Royal presented TELIC medals to
the Fusiliers who attended. Although not quite as sporting, the 1 RRF Young Officers have also been on a tour of the Regimental Recruiting Areas, as well as visiting ITC Catterick. 1 RRF's Main effort remains recruiting and manning the Battalion. To that end the activities after Easter Leave will focus on Warwickshire Week and providing satisfied soldiers to ACIOs and AFCOs, as well as providing manpower to RSTs. In the margins W Company have been conducting re-roling cadres and more than half an eye is being kept on the upcoming Unit Move. The Battalion stood down for 3 weeks of Easter leave on 27 March. 2 RRF Following a busy period of training in preparation for Op HERRICK 10 the Battalion returned to Hounslow and embarked on a number of community initiatives in the local Hounslow area. This involved the Battalion running a Junior Leadership Programme; three days of military led activities for thirty 14-16 year old children from the local schools. They were split down into four syndicates and took part in command tasks, discussion groups on current affairs and received a number of lectures from outside speakers in the community. The three day package, a joint initiative with Hounslow Borough Council proved to be a great success for all those that took part and more are planned for when the Battalion returns from Afghanistan. Following the Junior Leadership Package and prior to
a period of two weeks leave the Battalion took part in a Farewell parade
through Hounslow in recognition of the links established between the Battalion
and the Council. The parade proved a success with the Battalion receiving
a warm welcome as they marched through the streets of Hounslow with over
a thousand people lining the streets. The parade finished with an inspection
from the Mayor of Hounslow and a reception in the Council Chamber for
all the soldiers and families. Brigadier Paterson represented The Colonel
of the Regiment and Colonel Easton attended in his capacity as Area Colonel
London.
After a well earned rest the Battalion's final official event was the visit of the Colonel-in-Chief HRH The Duke of Kent who met Fusiliers conducting Op BARMA drills and training on weapons to be used out in theatre. The visit proved a great success with the Colonel-in-Chief enjoying his afternoon and the Fusiliers and families appreciating greatly a visit from the Colonel-in-Chief prior to deployment on Op HERRICK 10 (photographs will be published in the next Fusilier News). 5 RRF During March 09 the Battalion has carried out MATTs training and testing on Catterick Training Area to qualify members of the Battalion for their Annual Bounty. Other training events were Company level weekends emphasising section and platoon skills at Spadeadam, Otterburn and Warcop. Over the weekend of 27-29 Mar two teams from the Battalion competed in the Brigade Military Skills competition. On 14 March the Battalion celebrated the Freedom of
Berwick-upon-Tweed in a concert in the Parish Church and in Berwick Barracks.
The Band of The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers performed a selection of music
including an Abba medley and show tunes from the musical Chicago. The
event raised over £600 for the parish church organ restoration fund
and was well received by the Mayor of Berwick who holds the military,
and The Fusiliers in particular, in high regard. Colonel Northumberland
and the Area Secretary were also at the event as was the Deputy Lord Lieutenant
for Northumberland.
The Training Major, Quartermaster, Signals PSI and SPSI D Company are currently in Kenya carrying out a recce for EX GRAND PRIX 3. They are combining this with being exercise controllers for an ongoing British Army exercise in Kenya. The Battalion will go to EX GP3 in October as part of a trial for the TA Infantry to support Regular Overseas Training Exercises.
Soldiers from 4 MERCIAN Normandy Company departed for
Op HERRICK during March. On Tuesday 3 March, Fifteen of the thirty one
Fusiliers based in Sheldon, who are deploying, came in to say goodbye
to A "Fusiliers" Company. They took part in potted sports, alongside
the Fusiliers who are not deploying this time, and a number of new recruits.
After training, friends and families joined the Fusiliers in the bar for
a farewell drink. This was accompanied by a meal prepared by the Company
admin staff (the regular chef works for social services and was delayed
on a case!). This was a bit of a surprise for Captain Hopkinson the PSAO
who we understand has been signed up for the next episode of Master Chef.
In total there were 60 Fusiliers on parade including recruits. Taking
into account those who were already mobilised and, therefore, could not
attend the Company effectively had more than 100% of its established strength
on duty on a Tuesday drill night. Area Headquarters Northumberland On the evening of Thursday 26 March the Fusiliers Association of Northumberland held its Spring Council Meeting in the Ashington TA Centre. The Association President, Colonel Simon Marr attended his first meeting which was chaired by the outgoing Chairman, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Turnbull who had been in post for 14 years. At the end of the meeting Colonel Marr presented Lieutenant Colonel Turnbull with a silver plated rose bowl and a hip flask and thanked him for the many years of service to the Association in the North East. The Colonel of the Regiment has asked that his and the Regiment's thanks are offered to Lieutenant Colonel Turnbull for his many years of excellent service to the Association. The new Chairman is Major Chester Potts who saw service in the Gulf in 1991 and served with both 3RRF and 6RRF. His day job is with Northumbria Police CID and he is wished every success in his new role. On Tuesday 24 March, young Officers of 1RRF arrived in Newcastle as part of their "Grand Tour" of the regimental areas. They visited Osbourne Road, a well known cultural centre in the city. As a result of this exhausting intellectual effort they needed a little encouragement to attend a recruiting briefing on Wednesday morning in St George's TA Centre! The Area Secretary then met the group and entertained them to lunch with Fish and Chips and liquid refreshment in the Ridley Arms Public House in Stannington Village. From there they visited The Fusiliers Museum of Northumberland in Alnwick Castle (where they failed to purchase any shop stock which would help the museum, CO 1RRF please note.) Area Headquarters Warwickshire Area Headquarters Warwickshire is very busy planning and preparing for the Freedom and Welcome Home Parades in the West Midlands and Warwickshire for the First Battalion. There has been considerable media coverage which we anticipate will attract the public and of course the membership of the Regimental Association in Warwickshire. Dates are: Wed 29 April 2009 - Freedom of Coventry in the Broadgate
at 1045 hrs The Association Branches have been busy with the Central Branch holding their Founding Dinner at the Britannia Hotel in Coventry on Saturday 4 April; this was a most excellent evening which attracted around 80 members and guests. It was good to see so many former members of the Regiment particularly from 3RRF and 5RRF. Sheldon Branch under the leadership of Mr Neil Gregory attended the Regimental Church Service at H M Tower of London on Sunday 5 April, and once again had a wonderful day. All eight branches in the West Midlands are preparing themselves to enter the annual bowls and shooting competitions in the summer. Sheldon Branch has already booked their accommodation for the Fusilier Gathering in September; we hope to field a strong marching contingent from Warwickshire for the parade on the Sunday. The membership of the Fusilier Officers' Club in Warwickshire
dined at Bramcote Barracks on Friday 6 March. It was attended by 40 officers,
a good turnout. Amongst the guests were HM Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire,
COS HQ 143 (WM) Brigade, the Mayor of Rugby and Mr David Muldoon JP.
The Regimental Secretary visited St John's House in
March and lunched with Trustees of the Regimental Museum and the Charitable
Funds along with members of the Association, Dinner Clubs, the ACF and
TA Fusiliers. Area Headquaters Lancashire The relocation of the museum and headquarters from
Wellington Barracks has started. The eagle hasn't quite landed but it
is certainly skidding down the road with a box under each wing. Although
AHQ and the museum are only moving about a mile down the road it will
be a major operation made complicated by a commitment to maintain "
normal service" over the Gallipoli Weekend including on Saturday
25 April the Lancashire Area Council Meeting followed by an evening a
reception in the new museum. Gallipoli Sunday will now include a parade
and inspection in Castle Armoury followed by a Church Service, march past
and regimental luncheon in the Elizabethan Suite of the Town Hall. The
day will end with a "behind the scenes" guided tour of the new
museum and headquarters.
Future Museum Staff visit the
Museum in Bury Of the other organisations that will use the building, the Tourist Information Centre will be operating in the next few days and the Army Careers information Office will be operational from 27 June. On Minden Sunday there will be an official farewell to Wellington Barracks and lowering of the Fusilier Flag, although the Association Club will probably be open for a few more months. The official opening of the Fusilier Museum will take place on Friday 25 September the day before the Fusilier Gathering. It will be a busy day, as the Minden Club are looking forward to holding their annual dinner in the new Regimental Council Chamber that evening. The end of the year will see the Inkerman Dinner taking place for the first time in the new museum on Friday 6 November. The grand finale of the year will be the Home Coming Parades of the 2nd Battalion probably over the period 8/9 December and a temporary museum display on the 2nd Battalion's experience in Afghanistan.
The following letter below was received at RHQ: 'Last Saturday evening I attended the inaugural dinner of the RRF Association Central Branch Dinner in Coventry. As an ex-Adjutant and Training Major of 5 RRF(V) and latterly the 5th (Warwickshire) Bn RRF I was fortunate to find myself on the invitation list. Organised, to his distinct credit, by Lee Bott (ex-5RRF), I am delighted to report that the evening was a great success. In the region of 80 all ranks and wives/girlfriends attended, amongst them some of the real stalwarts from both the Officers' and WOs' and Sgts' Messes from my 1& 5 RRF days! In addition to the normal trappings of an event such as this, Lee had organised an auction to which people contributed very generously raising a total of £2000 for Help for Heroes. As the only serving officer at the dinner, I was encouraged to see a combination of both ex-TA and ex-Regular Fusiliers gathered under the same roof for a really good Regimental event'. Lt Col Guy Moncur 6 April 2009 To Lee Bott and all members of the Coventry Association Branch well done and keep the Hackle prominent in your Area. Cadet Forces On 23 March Cadet Sergeant James Morgan (16) of Kitchener Road N17 was presented with BTEC First Diploma in Public Services from Mr John White, the Master of the Worshipful Company of Playing Card Makers at the Cadet Sector Headquarters in Hammersmith. The awards are organised by the Cadet Vocational Qualifications Office (CVQO) and are equivalent to 4 GCSEs (A*-C). He has been a cadet at 212 Haringey Detachment (Royal Regiment of Fusiliers) for the past 4 years and attends the College of North East London. He said " I've not decided what to do when I leave school but I'd like either to join the Army or do a plumbing apprenticeship- whichever I do , this BTEC will help as its worth 4 GSCEs." In the first 3 months of 2009 the following amounts have been paid out in grants to both former and some serving members of the Regimental family and their dependents: 52 Aid Society Grants: £22,007 On behalf of the Lancashire Fusiliers: £3,276 On behalf of the Army Benevolent Fund: £7,600 A total of £32,883 with a predicted spend for 2009 of well in excess of £100,000. We can all be justifiably proud of the scope and depth of benevolence of the Fusilier Aid Society. It will continue to provide support for all Fusiliers, including those from the antecedent Regiments that are in need.
At the regimental Council Meeting in March 09 the decision was taken to produce one Journal a year with immediate effect. The Journal will be issued in early December each year, will be in colour and contain many more photographs than at present. The journal will be supplemented by a more detailed, monthly, Fusilier News also with more photographs. RHQ is also investigating the possibility of producing a newspaper type periodical which will be photograph based. Some, may not agree with moving to an annual Journal but the decision has been taken against a background of rising costs, a reduction in advertising revenue, a decrease in liquid funds due to the economic downturn, and enforced staff cuts within RHQ and AHQs. This decision will of course be reviewed annually and may, in the future, be reversed. In the meantime I look for support not complaints! To make the Journal and other publications a success it is reliant upon contributions received from you. All comment, letters and articles will be greatly received and, where appropriate, published. I also encourage JNCOs and Fusiliers to write with their views and to send in articles and photographs. Notices " Congratulations go to Captain Jon Hall and Captain Georges Heyes who were married to Angela and Olivia on 7 March and 14 March 09 (both respectively) in the Regimental Chapel, St Peter's at HM The Tower of London. " Mr Paul Ormesher (ex 3RRF) and Agnieszka Zgoralska have moved from SE London to rural Northamptonshire to the lovely village of Clipston near Market Harborough and the Naseby battlefield. They have taken over "The Bull's Head" a smashing country inn/restaurant. It also has three B&B rooms with ensuite shower (one double and two twin rooms) so if anyone fancies a relaxing weekend in the heart of the English countryside please get in touch with Paul. You are guaranteed good food, real ale (Everards, Tiger, Beacon and Sleighbell) and great company. Details are: The Bull's Head 01858 525268 |
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FUSILIER NEWS
EC3N 4AB Tel: 020-3166-6909 Fax: 020-3166-6920 E-mail: rhq@thefusiliers.org RHQ/RRF/1363 2nd February 2009 1RRF. The Battalion returned to Fallingbostel from well earned Post Operational Tour Leave on 26 January. They have hit the ground running as they prepare for various exercises at Sennelager, freedom parades and marches in the Midlands as part of their welcome back from Iraq, take over the Regiments lead on recruiting and start preparation for their move back to the UK in Jul/Aug this year. The Battalion will receive the Freedom of Coventry on 29 April where The Colonel of The Regiment will take the salute. Welcome home parades are scheduled to take place as follows: " Morning of 1 May - Rugby. If you are in the area go and support the 1st Battalion. 2RRF. On returning from Christmas leave the Battalion moved straight into preparation for their impending, short notice tour to Afghanistan. Cavalry Barracks, Hounslow is a hive of activity as the Commanding Officer reconfigures his battalion and receives attached units and personnel as a result of an operationally focused task reorganisation. Pre-deployment training will continue apace throughout February and March. On 5 March the Battalion will be given the Freedom of Hounslow and will march through the Borough. If you are free on that day the message is; go and support the 2nd Battalion at Hounslow before they depart for Afghanistan. C (City of London Fusiliers Company. The Company opened a new location for a Platoon outstation at the Blackheath drill hall on Wed 28 January. Brigadier Paterson attended an impressive opening. Fourteen potential recruits signed on that evening. It is expected that this new location will be a rich source of recruits for TA Fusiliers Soldier Recruiting. Soldier recruiting is starting to show an upward trend due to an incredible amount of good work by the Regimental Recruiting Team and the battalions. We are now manning all of our Area Recruiting Offices and the Regimental Recruiting Teams are better equipped and extremely busy. There is, however, no room for complacency and we must keep our foot hard on the pedal. Now is also the time to remember that we all have a part to play in recruiting and keeping The Fusilier name to the fore in our towns and cities, in commerce, in schools, universities and affiliated Cadet Forces. Last month CO 1 RRF completed a tour of our Areas, meeting all Fusiliers involved in recruiting and training and CRR personnel. There is a firm plan in place for recruiting in 2009/10 and there is no doubt that recruiting will continue to improve. M 62 Bombing Memorial A rededication ceremony will take place at 1100 hrs at the Hartshead Moor Service Area on Wednesday 4 February. This is the 35th Anniversary remembering those that were killed and injured in the M62 coach bombing. The existing memorial will move from its present location, to a more suitable location outside the services. After consultation with the Regiment and the families involved, a new memorial (cylindrical Yorkshire stone angled and polished, with a bronze plaque) will be sited near the flagpoles area. A small memorial garden, containing a bed of snowdrops, will surround the area. This is to commemorate the children killed. Nearby a tree will be planted by 'Life for a life', with a commemorative plaque. Lancashire Fusilier Monument. Despite some local objections the Regiment has been granted the right to move the Fusilier Monument from its current site at Wellington Barracks to a new site in the centre of Bury. The Monument has always been associated with the Headquarters and will therefore move when the AHQ moves in a few months time. It has also been suggested by a local councillor that the park in which the Monument will reside should be renamed Gallipoli Park. Spion Kop. The anniversary of the battle of Spion Kop was commemorated on Saturday 24 January at the Boer War Memorial in Whitehead Park, Bury. Lt Col (Retd) Mike Glover laid a wreath on behalf of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. Roy Woods, a museum volunteer and former Lancashire Fusilier laid a wreath on behalf of the Lancashire Fusiliers. Roy's father fought at Spion Kop with the Lancashire Fusiliers. As part of a Lancashire Brigade, the Lancashire Fusiliers captured the hill at night only to find it lay open to enemy guns by day. Three hundred British soldiers died. Although the human cost was high, the battle led to the subsequent relief of the town of Ladysmith.
The Area Colonel Lancashire and Area Secretary have asked that the following notice be included in Fusilier News: The Fusilier Museum Bury Five years of hard work and £4.08million will see the Fusilier Museum open in 2009. The Project has included major conservation work on a listed building, the redisplay of the Lancashire Fusilier Collection, establishing a Royal Regiment of Fusiliers collection and display, the move of the Area Headquarters and the creation of an Army Careers Information Office. The intention of this note is to explain the logic behind the dates associated with various celebrations during the year, such as Gallipoli, Minden Day and the Fusilier gathering. With so much on this year the intention is to spread the financial load to be fair to all and ensure we have maximum attendance. It was hoped to formally open on Gallipoli weekend. Unfortunately, delays to the build and power installations and the non availability of our VIP guest have forced us to delay the opening. We are still awaiting a confirmation of availability and this is causing a degree of complication in announcing and organising the formal opening. For those in Lancashire we have also reduced the scale of the dinner usually held on the Saturday of the Gallipoli weekend. I know this has disappointed a number of people but the decision was taken in order to reduce the overall cost this year. In its place will be a drinks party with a number of guests with the car draw held at the new museum. The official opening date depends to a large extent on the availability of ourVIP guest. There are two possibilities; the first is to coincide the Official Opening with the Fusilier Gathering in September, the second to tie in with our VIP guests availability outside of the Gathering. This could be any time from July to end September. I hope everyone can now see that with the possibility of three possible events this year in Lancashire we where trying to reduce the cost and travelling of everyone involved.
" Opening of the Tourist Information Centre
Commencing on Saturday 27 June, Armed Forces day, the Museum will open to the public for five days a week. Following, the Official Opening this will expand to a full seven days. The outline programme is: " Saturday 25 April, Gallipoli Day. Evening function
in Museum and draw of Car Raffle. Invitation only. There are many other activities taking place including evening presentations and daytime talks. This is a full but graduated programme and I hope you will all come and see this excellent facility designed to ensure the Regiments past is remembered alongside the development of its future. Deaths It is with much sadness that the following deaths are reported:
Williams: On the weekend 10/11 January 09 Fusilier
Tony (Nah Chin) Williams ex 1st Bn who Marriot: On 23 December 2008, Band Corporal Norman (Chunky) Marriott passed away aged 80. Norman served with the 1st Bn The Royal Warwickshire Regt Corps of Drums in Palestine and on his return to the UK in 1948 transferred to the Regimental Band. He also served in BTA (Austria) 1951-53 Whateley: On 26 December 2008, Bill Whateley aged 73. Bill served with the 1st Bn The Royal Warwickshire Regt and was a Corporal in The Corps of Drums. King: On 1st January 2009, Bandsman Allan King. He saw service in the UK 1950 and in BTA (Austria) 1951/2 with the 1stBn The Royal Warwickshire Regt. He was one of the band members taken ill in Austria with TB. Withers: On 16 January 2009, Stanley Withers aged 85. Enlisted in February 1941and joined the 70th (Young Soldiers) Bn Royal Warwickshire Regt and transferred to the 9Th Bn when the 70th was disbanded in 1943. Stanley was Padre to the 70th Bn Old Comrades Association. I would ask that anyone who hears of a Fusilier death inform RHQ or Area HQs in order that all deaths can be properly and rightly recorded, and families and friends contacted. It is also important that all Associations are kept informed and that they, in turn, inform RHQ. I R Liles OBE |
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The Latest News from RHQ
2. WO1 PROMOTIONS. Congratulations go to the following on their selection for promotion to WO1 WO2 L Grant, 2RRF to be WO1 (RSM) Northumbrian University Officer Training Corps in 2010 WO2 R P Greaves 2RRF to be WO1(RSM)of 5RRF in Apr 2010 WO2 D Robinson 1RRF to be WO1(RSM)of 1RRF in Apr 2009 WO2 S Snowdon 1RRF to be WO1 RSM at the DRAC Gunnery School at Bovington in 2009 1RRF First Fusiliers handed over command of the Strike Battle Group in Basra to 5 RIFLES BG on Monday 1 December. The CO and Adjt should be back in their rather colder North Germany offices in Lumsden Barracks on Thursday. Thursday is also the day that the last Fusilier from 1RRF should be clear of Iraq. Lt Col Paul Nanson has asked that I pass on his thanks to the wider Regimental family for all its support over the last 6 months. Thankfully we have not had to test the compassionate system too much. They look forward to the Colonel of the Regiment visiting them for
their Medals Parade on Thursday11 December. Promotions. IMPORTANT NOTICE Display of the Fusiliers in Northern Ireland in our new Museum Please either send documents to Lt Col Mike Glover, AHQ RRF Lancashire, Wellington Barracks, Bury, BL8 2PL, or, Phone him on 0161764 2208 to arrange for someone to collect what you might have to offer or fax or email to 0161763 9512 or colonelglover@btinternet.com to indicate what you might have. W J WILLANS |
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The Latest News from RHQ
1. New Website and Recruiting Video. There have been significant new improvements to our new Regimental Pages on the MoD Website. You can see several videos including the Regiment's new recruiting video. Look under the Ready for a Challenge button on left hand side on http://www.army.mod.uk/infantry/regiments/3476.aspx, Be aware that the "old" website http://www2.army.mod.uk/fusiliers/index.html will cease before 14 December. (The MOD are disconnecting it then and it will not be possible for us to update it.) Instead the Regimental Page on the MoD website will be that Web Address already given, namely http://www.army.mod.uk/infantry/regiments/3476.aspx which you should be able to access now. I will arrange for the link from our web site www.thefusiliers.org to switch to the new page at the end of November. 2. Intermediate Regular Commissions The following are congratulated on successfully converting their Short Service Commissions to Intermediate Regular Commissions: Capt DG Alloway 559511 RRF 1 RRF, Fallingbostel 3. Captain Barry (Robbo) Robinson (late RF and 3RRF) who died Sunday 23 November 2008 His funeral details are: The Colonel of the Regiment, I met Robbo in September 1973 as a brand new Second Lieutenant in 3RRF. He was my first Platoon Sergeant in 5 Platoon, B Company. He closely resembled Sergeant Hurricane in the Victor comic: Big man, boxer, athlete and everything you thought a platoon sergeant might be. On day one we went on a platoon run, which he said was routine. After I do not know how many miles there were only 5 of us left - and I realised it was me being put through my paces! He did just what they said in the manual and graciously handed over command to the newly arrived officer but was there to support, advise, cover up and deal with many issues which I never knew about. In Cyprus in 1973 he took the Platoon on a horse riding expedition in the Troodos Mountains but omitted to tell the owner about the loan of his horses. I spent many hours in the local police station bailing the troops out of custody - and showing that officers did have some uses. Through all the years since we maintained a warm friendship on meeting at Regimental events. He was one of the great characters of the Regiment and the Regiment was his life. He was immensely loyal, brave, honest and hard working and would have charged down anyone challenging the Regiment's honour. The latter years have been tough for him and he remained in modest circumstances battling illness alone. Everyone who knew him has a "Robbo" story and we have lost a great friend and proud Fusilier. Trevor Minter. 4. Lt Col Robin Leith-MacGregor MC DFC Jolyon Willans |
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The Latest News from RHQ 1. First Fusiliers |
The
latest Sitrep from 1RRF in Iraq 19th September 2008
Other news
from RHQ the Tower London
Col
Bill Etches is home again after 3 days in hospital with pneumonia. He would welcome
visitors.For those who know him they might be amused by the attached (suitably
expurgated) email from Col,Patrick Shervington.
Video footage used on local TV of the two Freedom Parades in London and Birmingham can be seen http://www.army.mod.uk/infantry/regiments/5453.aspx
Some 300 people attended the Thanks Giving service for Col Patrick Robinson.
Also attached (See Above) is the most recent CONTACT newsletter from our Fusiliers in Basra, who incidentally were visited by the Colonel-in-Chief and by the Colonel of the Regiment this weekend. It was a humbling experience for them to witness the spirit, competence, self-assurance and professionalism that was so apparent in everyone they met on their whistle-stop tour.They both thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to see 1RRF on operations in Iraq..
W J Willans Lt Col |
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Battlefield
Tour 2009
Sorry now cancelled |
| The
latest Sitrep from 1RRF in Iraq
Click on the page to see it enlarged |
| RHQ/RRF/1363
17 June 2008
ANOTHER WEEK ANOTHER FUSILIER NEWS!
1. HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS LIST
Many congratulations go to the following who have received awards;
Col W N (Bill) Aldridge CBE who has been appointed as a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. This was in recognition of his leadership and example in Afghanistan where he was Chief CJ5 International Security Assistance Force and the Assistant Chief of Staff of Headquarters Allied Command Europe Rapid Reaction Corps. He is now attending The Royal College Defence Studies and his address is C/o RCDS, Seaford House, 37 Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8NF.
Maj J W (Jim) Taylor MBE who has been appointed a Member of the same Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. This is in recognition of his specific and unique contribution to operations in both Afghanistan and Iraq over a 9 month period while serving with 2RRF. Furthermore he was instrumental in the design and delivery of a programme of improvement for command and control system for the Iraqi Security Forces in Basra.
Lt Col (Retd) E W Davidson MBE DL was also appointed as a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. The award recognises Eric’s significant contribution to Charity and in particular his Citation included reference to his work for our Regimental Charities in Lancashire. He has only very recently handed over his responsibilities as Chairman of the Lancashire Area of The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Association and he remains the President of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Lancashire Association Band and Corps of Drums which incidentally is at this moment in Canada playing alongside the Pipes and Drums of the Lorne Scots.
Major B R (Brian) Young MBE of the Fusiliers Army Cadet Force has been appointed a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. He is the Company Commander of the Warwickshire Army Cadet Force and over the last 8 years has converted a struggling detachment in an under privileged area of Coventry into a highly successful unit, doubling the attendance figures and has proved to be extremely successful in recruiting for the ethnic minority communities. (Maj Young is a former TA Quartermaster of the old 5RRF).
Finally congratulations also go to Sir Alan Beith MP on his Knighthood. Sir Alan is the MP for Berwick-upon-Tweed and has for many years been a most loyal supporter of The Fusiliers.
2. FUNERAL SERVICE FOR THE LATE COLONEL PATRICK ROBINSON
The funeral service for Colonel Patrick Robinson whose death was recorded in the last Fusilier News will take place at Perth Crematorium, Crieff Road, Perth PH1 2PE at 2pm on Friday 20 June. The family will be delighted to see anybody who can make it to the service but readers should note that they intend to have a Thanks Giving Service later in the year, perhaps in September or October, in the Midlands.
3. SENIOR OFFICERS’ POSTINGS
Col Simon Marr MBE is very shortly taking up a new appointment as the military officer, in the Afghan Cross Whitehall Unit of the Ministry of Defence. This appointment is for three years and is a new post.
Col Philip Stack MBE currently on the Defence Planning Staff at Headquarters SHAPE has been selected for a Defence Attaché post in October, for which Language Training is starting very shortly. (Incidentally both these officers will be attending the annual Cocktail Party held outside RHQ on the 26 June) – just to remind any late applicants).
4. 2ND FUSILIERS ON PUBLIC DUTIES
Yesterday, Monday 16 June 2nd Fusiliers were on parade
outside Buckingham Palace mounting Her Majesty’s Guard for the first time.
The parade was commanded by the Commanding Officer himself and the Queen’s
Colour was carried by Maj Jon Swift. Also on parade was Maj Jeremy Lamb MC and
the Battalion Adjutant. As the Regimental Secretary writes this Fusiliers News
he can see behind him the Fusilier sentry on guard outside the Jewel House at
the Tower of London. Attached is a photograph taken of the parade and by linking
onto the following website you can see a summary as it appeared on the Army Website;
http://www.mod.uk/DefenceInternet/DefenceNews/HistoryAndHonour/FusiliersInDebutPalaceParade.htm
5. FUSILIERS GOLFING TRIUMPH – AGAIN !
The Regimental Team consisting of Col Jo Gunnell, Lt Col John Hunt, Capt David Williams and Maj Roger Antolik carried the day on 12 June 2008 at Royal St George’s, Sandwich to win the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Bowl by beating both the Royal Irish Regiment and, in the final, the Royal Scots. This is the infantry and cavalry inter regimental trophy, which the Fusiliers have now won for seven years, since 2002.
WJW |
| Death of Col P J C Robinson OBE TD DL I
am very sad to report the death last night of Colonel Patrick Robinson who Regimental
Dinner on St George's Day he was expecting to be able to do such and
Deputy Colonel, lives in Berkshire. |
| The latest Sitrep
from 1RRF in Iraq 8th June 2008
Click on the page to see it enlarged |
| RHQ/RRF/1363 28th April 2008 CHIEF
OF THE GENERAL STAFF’S LETTER TO THE ARMY ON THE SITUATION The Chief of the General Staff (CGS), General Sir Richard Dannatt, visited Iraq last week and wants to ensure that All Ranks are aware of the current situation in theatre. CGS’ unclassified letter follows below and is self-explanatory, outlining the conclusions of his visit to Iraq last week but set in the context of the Campaign as a whole over the last 5 years so that no one should be in any doubt as to the current situation. Although addressed to CinC Land Forces it is for general release. 25th Apr 08 CinC Land Forces IRAQ 1. I have just come back from one of my regular visits to Iraq and given the recent developments, I thought that it was important to give you my views about the situation and I would ask you to pass on this perspective to the chain of command and our families so that everyone is clear as to what is going on. 2. The first point to make is that as far back as 2003, the Campaign Plan envisaged a progressive handing over of responsibility to the Iraqis, both in governance and security. This is what we have achieved in Dhi Qar, Al Muthanna and Maysan and was what occurred last year in Basra when we handed over the last remaining base in the city, and then, in December 2007, the Province itself, to Iraqi control. Having set the conditions in Basra, the concept of moving into an overwatch posture at the Contingency Operating Base at Basra Airport was the next logical step and has allowed the Iraqi Security Forces to assume responsibility for the security of the Province. We always assumed that ‘overwatch’ involved the possibility of having to re-intervene in security matters if deemed appropriate by both the Iraqis and the Multinational Force that our troops come under. The idea that ‘overwatch’ simply involved our soldiers merely sitting around waiting to be called was always inaccurate, since the strategy has always been dependent on capacity building of the Iraqi Security Forces both in numbers and capabilities – and that has kept us pretty busy. 3. When I visited Iraq last week, I met soldiers of every rank who were positive about their role and committed to the task. I cannot deny that there are many who said that they would rather be at the forefront of the operations (as CGS, I think that I would be worried if I headed an Army that did not express such views) but those same individuals were all mature enough to understand it is right that the Iraqis that are now taking the lead. Indeed, these are exactly the nature of operations that we have been pressing for for some months – an Iraqi solution to an Iraqi problem. The Iraqis have called their surge into Basra ‘Operation Charge of the Knights’ and the Iraqi Prime Minister took the decision to take personal charge of it. To us in the military, that is a clear sign as to where the Iraq Main Effort has shifted and as a consequence, where the support of the Multinational Force must follow. The deployment of additional Multinational Corps headquarters staff (mostly from the US) to Multinational Division (South East) Basra is therefore an entirely logical military move which we can understand and support. 4. Following the principles of overwatch, we have provided support to the Iraqis where it is appropriate and within our rules of engagement. The capabilities that the Iraqis have requested from us and which we have provided include intelligence, aerial surveillance (manned and unmanned), force protection (including CHALLENGER 2 and WARRIOR), support helicopters, logistic and medical support. In addition, we have continued to mentor the Iraqi Security Forces and that is where most of our effort is now directed, principally with the Iraqi 14th Division. However, the Iraqis have supported their main effort by moving additional formations into the Basra area and these have come from areas in Iraq where they have been mentored by US troops. Just as it makes sense for UK advisors to accompany the Iraqi troops that we mentor, it makes equal sense that US advisors should operate alongside the Iraqi units they have been working with as they are brought in from other parts of the country for ‘Operation Charge of the Knights’. 5. Some commentators have been critical of the way that the Iraqi operation has been carried out. Having visited Iraq and talked to many of those involved, I have concluded that this is unreasonable and ignores the complexity of dealing with determined adversaries in challenging counter-insurgency operations. Just as Multinational Forces have challenges in operating in a foreign country, the Iraqi Security Forces face different challenges in operating in their own country. It is also worth bearing in mind that a year or so ago, 14 Division did not exist. Nor was it at full operating capability when operations in Basra started. Therefore to expect it to perform to a standard that has taken other nations (including our own) decades to reach is patently unrealistic. No one would deny that aspects of the Iraqi operation could have gone better at the outset. But there is no doubt that each phase (the Iraqis are now on the fourth phase ) has gone from strength to strength and is now showing some significant results – the Iraqi plan is working and is delivering what we sought. Indeed Basrawis are now being reported as “optimistic” about the future for the first time in many years. 6. My conclusion from my visit is that the campaign remains on its broad track but as everyone in the Army who has either served in Iraq or been involved in supporting the operation knows, it has, and will continue, to take time. We have quite properly reduced our force numbers over the last couple of years, but there will still be many more challenges to overcome and at no stage will it be easy. When faced with these situations, we must steel ourselves to see it through; this is what we have done for the past 5 years and we will continue to do so as long as a Land Forces contingent is required in Southern Iraq. I returned from my visit buoyed by the courage, sense of purpose and determination of our soldiers. I would like everyone to know this, lest anyone think that somehow this is not the case and our families can continue to take great pride in how their loved ones are carrying out their duty as professional soldiers serving their country. CGS 2. BFBS TV CLIPS It is well worth watching these clips with interviews with several RRF personalities. They show 1RRF training in Bavaria using US Army training facilities and 2RRF celbrating St George’s Day.
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