Scarlet and Gold of London town

Massed Bands of The Household Division perform the Scarlet and Gold concert at Central Hall, Westminster.

Musn Batai is a musician in the Band of the Irish Guards. During a normal working day he performs on the oboe and may play at state and ceremonial events across the capital and around the world.

Ride of the Valkyries

After a serious week of preparation for the Scarlet and Gold concerts, the Massed Bands of The Household Division, part of the Corps of Army Music, gave fantastic performances on the 22nd and 23rd of November at Central Hall, Westminster, with a versatile programme. Great soloists and breathtaking ensemble work from all the members of the band delighted the audiences.

I felt very privileged to sit in the band as the principal oboe and had a great pleasure to be part of this musical spectacular. The concert started with the National anthem followed by Wagner’s The Ride of the Valkyries, with the Fanfare players on the balcony, decorating the venue and filling the hall with their glorious sound. The opening was truly powerful and instantly gave an insight as to what the audience was to expect from the rest of the concert.

Following Gounod’s March Militaire we played a piece, which was in my opinion one of the highlights of the evening - Alfred Reid’s Armenian Dances which were originally composed for a concert band and there are truly challenging moments for all the instrumental parts; in particular woodwinds. The Band played extremely well and demonstrated its excellent skills.

The other highlight was the world-renowned film music from Spielberg’s Oscar winning drama Schindler’s List. I would like to mention Lance Corporal Rebecca White who played the solo violin with a superb taste and fantastic musicality. My part was not particularly busy in the piece so I had a chance to glance at the audience and notice that they were clearly ‘blown away’ by the unity of the ensemble and the soloist’s sensitivity. It was a real gem in our programme.

Massed Bands of The Household Division perform the Scarlet and Gold concert at Central Hall, Westminster.

Star Wars

The show had a sudden change after the solemn melody as the Corps of Drums, 2^nd Battalion, The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment marched on. They made a spectacular show with use of ultraviolet lights while using fluorescent yellow drumsticks as the venue’s lights were switched off. The following marches made everyone stomp their feet and enjoy the traditional military music. I heard people whistle or hum the well known marches even when we went out for the interval. Upon return the Band performed Star Wars by John Williams. This piece also received support from the fanfares and the lightning display which again made this musical event more effective. It almost felt like the moments from the film, ‘Star Wars’ were brought into the auditorium.

The pipes are always loved, it was not different this evening either. The well known tunes played by the Pipes and Drums of The London Regiment, were very well received and set the mood to a very light hearted overture from the MGM Classic film ‘The Wizard of Oz’.

Massed Bands of The Household Division perform the Scarlet and Gold concert at Central Hall, Westminster.

Beautiful marches

The film music led us to the Guards Big Band’s performance of three pieces. They were led by Colour Sergeant  Jason Libby. I must admit this was the first time in my life I wished I could play a brass instrument or saxophone and be part of this ensemble. The superior playing was breathtaking. The members of the ensemble were completely unified and clearly had a great time performing. Their enthusiasm made everyone feel part of their show. Third piece, A Foggy Day in London also featured a soloist/singer, Lance Sergeant James Scott.

After the magnificent performance of the Big Band, the concert reached its finale which consisted of pieces such as Bizet’s Farandole, Handel’s See the Conquering Hero Comes and a very effective arrangement by Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Beat. The arrangement was a combination of Will Ye No Come Back Again and Auld Lang Syne, with the bugle call Last Post.

The audience seemed to love the show and I have no doubt that they will return eagerly in the future to this unique musical spectacle. I really hope that I shall be in the band again to take a part in this great event, as ‘Scarlet and Gold’ is one of the rare opportunities for the members of the band to engage with the public in the concert ambiance and share the beautiful marches and versatile music from all around the world.

Massed Bands of The Household Division perform the Scarlet and Gold concert at Central Hall, Westminster.

Sinfonietta – sound of strings

Musn Wright

Musn Wright is a Musician in the Royal Artillery Band, part of the Corps of Army Music. As a violinist he is given the opportunity to perform with a small orchestra namely the Corps of Army Music Sinfonietta. During the normal working day he will perform on a wind instrument at key ceremonial events and in support of the Army worldwide.

One-size-fits-all, cream of the crop ensemble

An unusually cold autumn morning set me up perfectly for rummaging through my wardrobe for a different hat. As an Army musician, I’m sure many have seen the plethora of different head gear that adorn the tunics; from bearskins to busbies and mirror-like brass to the humble beret. But few will be so familiar with the metaphorical cap that many of us sit under throughout the year – that of trained orchestral musicians.

Granted, the image of a macho soldier lending their hand to the subtleties of a violin or cello, are not the first to spring to mind when one thinks of  ”jobs available in the army”. However, our country’s orchestral heritage can be traced directly back to this. The first official orchestra in Great Britain was that of the Royal Artillery Band in Woolwich, who as a unit, very proudly celebrated their 250th anniversary in October this year.

Other small string groups can also still be seen, made up from musicians of both mounted and Foot Guard Regiments of the Household Division.

So back to this cold autumn morning. What we have is musicians from the Royal Artillery Band and the seven bands of the Household Division descending upon the Royal Military School of Music in Twickenham, for a one-size-fits-all, cream of the crop ensemble. Known as the ‘CAMUS sinfonietta’, its anticipated annual occurrence and careful selection of players offer it up as a very distinct jewel in the crown of military music. And the extra sparkle comes in the form of the finest woodwind and brass players, trawled from all corners and cupboards of the corps of army music. Indeed this year, as in some previous, we have the pleasure of some guest players from the RAF.

Our first rehearsal was the usual mixture of emotions. A meet and greet of those that have seen each other recently and those who, as in any working environment, may be grateful that they haven’t. But tensions over who spilt whose coffee last year soon subside as we recalibrate ourselves for the task in hand. And this year it’s quite a task, yet with even less preparation time than last, owing to such a busy month for bands. After several hours playing I feel much more relaxed into the larger string section than normal, and by the sound of the rest of the orchestra it promises to an exciting program of music to get stuck into and bring some passion and energy to both venues in the concert series.

HRH The Countess of Wessex meets LCpl Shellard clarinet soloist

The two venues for this years CAMUS  Sinfonietta concerts were the Newbury Arts Centre and the prestigious Menuhin Hall at Cobham.

The audiences at both venues were a mix of music lovers, military top brass and even royalty at the Menuhin Hall. Yes we had the privilege of our Colonel in Chief , HRH the Countess of Wessex in attendance. Nothing like a spot of royalty to ratchet up the pressure and encourage the best possible performance.

So to the music…

The woodwind section of the Sinfonietta

Our opening piece was an overture by the lesser known Rosenberg. And quite an opener it was, possibly an eye-opener for those less familiar with 20th century composers of his ilk. It’s a sort of marmite music with not much between loving or hating it. I’d say the audience were split on both nights. No matter the stance taken on the style of music, there would have been no doubt as to the ferocity and commitment it was delivered with. The conductor, Lt Col Meldrum, could easily have been mistaken for an evil wizard as he tried desperately to conjure every ounce of the composer’s intent from the bold phrases and the gut-wrenching harmonies. Well that was my take on it. A passer by or those less familiar with the concert hall might have thought Paul Daniels had just pulled an orchestra out of a hat. However, I suppose unless you’re a musician it would be difficult to grasp the effect a conductor can have on an orchestra.

Alongside the great variety of musical observations to be had, there was plenty on show for the non-musical military contingent who seemed equally transfixed by the performance.

For example, the discipline and timing involved in synchronising the bowing and rhythms of a well-oiled orchestra could match the prowess of a top class drill team or air display without a second thought. Likewise, the hawk-eyed observation and self control required in those pin-drop moments that see a full string section playing together quieter than a whisper, wouldn’t be out of place in an ambush or reconnaissance role.

LCpl Shellard performs at Arlington Arts Centre Newbury with the Sinfonietta

I’d say my two favourite works of the program were ‘ Banks of Green Willow’ and Gordon Jacob’s  ’Mini Concerto for Clarinet and Strings’. In the latter we had the pleasure of LCpl Alan Shellard from the Band of the Grenadier Guards as a soloist.

The ‘Banks of Green Willow’ by Butterworth offered a welcome respite from some of the more jarring chords found in the first two works. Its flowing folk-based melodies, painted with expert writing, would certainly have warmed the audience on such a cold evening. Notable colours oozed from the orchestra in the form of Lance Corporal Chris Spencer’s opening clarinet motif, Lance Corporal Rebecca White’s stirring solo violin moments and Warrant Officer Class 1 Guy Bennet’s harp contributions. I did think ‘fair play’ on his behalf as most sergeant majors wouldn’t admit to knowing what a harp was, never mind strumming their own in public.

The response from the audience as the energy in the hall wound up to an impressive, if slightly sweaty, finish of Bizet’s 1st Symphony was most encouraging. So presuming they were as generous to the Soldiers Charity ABF (whom the concerts were in aid of) as they were with their applause, the entire project will have have been of great worth. It’s certainly one I would gladly take part in again.

Public events featuring the bands of the Corps of Army Music

Medals, international rugby and mud glorious mud

emma peacock

Follow Musician Emma Peacock who plays flute and piccolo in The Band and Bugles of The Rifles. She has been in the band for two years, having completing Phase 1 training at ATR Pirbright and Phase 2 at The Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall.

All you can eat

After a week off to recover from the “Swift and Bold” concert in The Royal Albert Hall (see my last blog for all the details), we were back on the coach for over eight hours up to Edinburgh.  We were visiting 3 Rifles for their Homecoming Parade, Freedom Parade and Medals Parade.  The first night we went out to celebrate a promotion and a birthday.  It was a very good night!  Luckily the next morning was off and we didn’t have anything on until a Medals Parade rehearsal that afternoon.  The rehearsal went well, but it was absolutely freezing.  This was to be a common reoccurrence while in Edinburgh.

That night we were back in the city, having an all you can eat Chinese buffet and going to a salsa bar.  But it couldn’t be a late night as the next day was the Homecoming Parade.  This involved a march down a big hill to a local church next to a picturesque river.  The brass group played for the church service and then it was time to march back up the hill.  That afternoon was another Medals Parade rehearsal.  It took hours to warm up after it.

The troops marching down the Royal Mile.

The next day was the big event.  It was families’ day for 3 Rifles and the day started with a march down the Royal Mile in Edinburgh city centre, giving the battalion the Freedom of the city.  This was then followed by the well-rehearsed Medals Parade back on camp.  There was just enough time after the parade for us to get some lunch and experience the atmosphere of the families’ day before we were back on the coach and travelling back down to what felt like the tropical climate of Winchester.

Battle PT

I am part of the Woodwind Quintet and on 15 November we went to play for the RAPTC (Royal Army Physical Training Corps) Officers’ Mess Dinner Night in Aldershot.  I was really looking forward to the PTIs doing handstands during their regimental march, as this was what people had promised would happen, but I was disappointed as all they did was sing along!

Saturday 17 November was a big engagement for us as we were playing at Twickenham Stadium for the rugby game between England and Fiji. There were 82000 people in the stands and it was an amazing feeling when they were singing along to us playing the National Anthem, the noise is unbelievable and an amazing experience.

The Band and Bugles of The Rifles and The Rifles Fijian Choir on the ground at Twickenham stadium.

This last week we’ve been in our barracks  and Corporal Jessup, our band Physical training instructor, organised a session of battle PT.  There was a lot of mud, a little blood, some ripped combats and some very sore bodies the next day.

Musician Hughes is currently doing her BTEC in Music for The Uniformed Public Services and so as part of this she helped oversee a teambuilding afternoon which involved command tasks and activities.  This was great fun and had us running all over camp

Trooper Sam Lowe (RDG) arrives in Afghanistan

Trooper Sam Lowe

The Royal Dragoon Guards have deployed to Afghanistan as the Police Mentoring and Advisory Group and are also responsible for Mobility Protection, with soldiers working in the Warthog Group. In the second of the Royal Dragoon Guards’ Blogs, Trooper Sam Lowe describes how he has found his first few weeks in Afghanistan. Sam, from Rotherham, is 22 years old. He is working in a Tac Team and this is his first tour.

Go go go…

On our arrival into CampBastion in the early hours of a Tuesday it was all go go go, straight into day one of the Reception, Staging and Onward Integration (RSOI) package. This is the final bit of training that we all do before the tour can properly get started. Day One was a load of briefs that told us all about what we needed to know for our time in CampBastion. Most of the Regiment got a ‘day zero’ to recover after their flights but because the flight was late, we were all pretty tired and so it was a very long day. The remainder of the week involved everything from marching in body armour (to get us used to working in the hot conditions) to stands about Health and Hygiene. Day Four even includes information on the life expectancy of fruit and veg in our Patrol Bases (PBs)! I thought that day 3 was the best day of RSOI because the staff taught us the most up to date life saving techniques and it gave me more confidence in being able to carry out my drills correctly.

Our new home!

At the end of RSOI, most of the lads flew out to their new bases, but not for two lucky people (Cpl Bob Littlefair and me) who had to conduct even more specialist training. But we eventually finished our training, had some time to get our kit squared away, and got on the flight to MOB Lashkar Gah… our new home!

Soldiers from the Royal Dragoon Guards wait for the first of several flights taking them to Camp Bastion

A real eye opener

On Patrol in Lashkar Gah

On landing in the base, we were greeted by some of the lads who came out on the earlier flight, and we were able to start the take-over from the Welsh Guards. The Royal Dragoon Guards lads have loads of different roles out in Afghanistan, but I’m one of the ones responsible for driving and patrolling everyone to the locations they then need to get to. The first time on the ground for me was a real eye opener, speaking with the local Afghans and starting up a new working relationship with the Afghan National Police (ANP). It was pretty daunting seeing how busy the area is, but you soon become more used of what’s normal and the way people act around you. Having been out a few times now, I now feel comfortable carrying out my job professionally and have belief in myself.

Going out in the vehicles, is not as daunting as doing the foot patrols, because you have the added protection of all the armour. Vehicle patrols also mean you get to see more of the Afghanistan countryside. It’s not much like our home in Catterick but at least there’s a lot to look at. I’ve had a really varied start to the tour and have visited most areas to protect lots of different shuras, as well as taking some long vehicle patrols. I’m really enjoying myself and I’m looking forward to seeing what the rest of our tour holds for me and the lads.

Credit

Trooper Sam Lowe; Photographer: Lt Crean

Soldiers from the RDG wait for the first of several flights; Photographer Lt Crean

On Patrol in Lashkar Gah; Photographer: Sgt Elliott

All material is Crown Copy Right

2SR Op Herrick 17 Tour with 246 Gurkha Signal Squadron

SSgt (FofS (IS)) Kay

SSgt (FofS (IS)) Kay, a member of 2 Signal Regiment (2SR) and will be working in the Ops team of 246 Gurkha Signal Squadron, based in Camp Bastion for a six month tour on Operation HERRICK 17. He previously deployed in 2010/2011 with 16 Air Assault Brigade and was based in Lash Gakhar. The main tasks on Operation HERRICK 17 concentrate on working as part of a small  Operations team ensuring that Fixed Trunk Communications throughout Helmand are sustained in order to enable the Brigade to concentrate on their main tasks at hand in defeating the enemy.

2 Signal Regiment go on tour

I was posted to 2 Signal Regiment to go on tour, and while this is my job and I am happy to do it, I am apprehensive about leaving my wife and children yet again to face yet another Operational challenge. The build up phase to the tour has been encapsulated by STA (Specific Training to Arm) courses which I have had to attend in order to prepare me for the task at hand. These STA courses have been entwined with mandatory courses such as MATTs (Military Annual Training Tests) and have included developed Infantry range work, all of which has ensured the last 7 months have sped by at a frenetic pace. At least I have had the occasional opportunity to pass an amorous glance at my wife between returning from one course and departing for the next. Annual leave has not been disregarded and the Commanding Officer has ensured that all his soldiers utilise their maximum individual leave allowance to ensure family life is as stable as it can be prior to deployment.

A personal note

Approximately 6 weeks or so before the unit deployed, the Squadron were concentrating on fine tuning the soldiers training, ensuring all deploying personnel are medically vaccinated and all final mandatory briefs have been attended to ensure everyone is prepared for the task at hand. On a personal note, it has recently been confirmed there is a good chance that I could be granted my 2 week R & R period (rest and recuperation) to fall over Valentine’s Day which has put a smile on my face, but maybe not the wife’s!

Emotional thoughts

Thoughts of Christmas and Family

The recent start of the new school year has been a welcome distraction for my children, from both the deployment, and the heartache this brings. I’m sure, however, it won’t stop them being mischievous for my wife whilst I am away from home. Being away from my family at Christmas is an emotional thought, but all the latest technologies the Army have embraced allow us to speak to our families at this special time. The tour will also enable me to reduce my financial burden, as I now have an excuse not to buy my parents gifts at Christmas! (Hope they don’t read this blog, if they do, only joking mum and dad!)

Accepting families and friends

Prince Harry Deploys

The deployment of Prince Harry to Bastion has raised the profile of Afghanistan recently, which brings more media focus to television, public newspapers and radio enabling families and friends a greater ability to try and understand the conditions facing all deployed soldiers. My children have expressed a desire for me to obtain an autograph from the Prince as a gift on my return. If I cross paths with him in Camp Bastion I may swallow my pride to ask him. Or then again maybe not; the goading I will receive will be too much to take. I now look to the deployment date to commence the countdown to an eventual return back to the United Kingdom in May 2013.

 

‘The Rifles’ celebrate 200 years at the Royal Albert Hall

Emma Peacock

Musician Emma Peacock plays flute and piccolo in The Band and Bugles of The Rifles, Corps of Army Music.

Our biggest engagement this year (and some would say since the formation of The Rifles) was the “Swift and Bold” concert in the Royal Albert Hall. This was an amazing experience, for an amazing cause, and the result of many months of preparation.

The Big Event

The event was in aid of The Rifles charity, Care for Casualties, and was a celebration of The Rifles two hundred year history. The Massed Band and Bugles of The Rifles were playing together for the first time since formation and consisted of The Regular Band of The Rifles, made up of soldiers from the Corps of Army Music, The Territorial Salamanca Band of the 6^th Battalion and The Territorial Waterloo Band of the 7^thBattalion. Also joining us were two cadet bands, The Band and Bugles of the Durham ACF and The Somerset ACF Silver Bugles. Also featured in the event were The Regimental Fijian Choir, The Pipes and Drums of The Brigade of Ghurkhas, fiddle playing from Alistair Caplin and the Welsh tenor Wynne Evans, better known for his appearance in a prominent advert for a comparison website! The night was hosted by Alastair Stewart.

Swift and Bold musical extravaganza at the Royal Albert Hall

Swift and Bold Direction

This was a result of many months of preparation and careful organisation and this was done by our band’s Director of Music, Major Lawrence Sale. The day before the Swift and Bold concert all the bands met at Wellington Barracks to do a mass rehearsal, and for some people this was the first sight of the music! Our band were up incredibly early to get there and once in Wellington Barracks found that all the kit had to be taken down quite a few stairs and into a gym, not an easy job with some of the kit we had.

After a bit of weight lifting training (or kit shifting!) the bands finally got started and the bugles joined us. I managed to count eighty-seven buglers while rehearsing but I’m sure there were more. I was certainly glad of my ear defence as they were so loud. The Fijian choir practiced before lunch and were quite nervous as we were the first audience to hear them, but after a bit of rehearsal they were sounding good. During lunch I got quite lost in the barracks as it’s like a maze once you get inside. Eventually I had to stop and ask for directions. Luckily I got back in time for the afternoon’s rehearsals and we actually finished early. A good sign. After this was the task of taking all the kit back up the stairs and re-loading it onto the coach. By the end of the day my arm muscles were quite sore!

That night the mass of musician, buglers, pipers etc. were spread across London to different places of accommodation. The bands went to The Royal Military School of Music, Kneller Hall and the ladies had an interesting time trying to put badly fitting camp beds together as we were sleeping in a big hall. One of the beds took five people to put together as it was so stiff.

The stage is prepared

The next day was another early start; however I don’t think any of us minded as it was the day of the concert. After a hearty cooked breakfast we left early to get to The Royal Albert Hall, hoping to miss the traffic. However, this meant that once we got there we were too early to start setting up on the stage as the stage crew were still dealing with the lighting, so we were cooped up in our changing rooms for a bit. But once we were allowed out we swarmed the stage, setting up percussion and getting ourselves ready for a sound check. This went well, and I think it calmed a few already heightened nerves and then we had a mass photo with us all in uniform.

With the stage decked out in green, red and black it looked a great sight! There was some ‘down time’ that afternoon to relax before the concert. Many people went out into London for dinner or a little walk or to meet family pre-concert, but some just waited in. A few people even had a quick nap.

Ladies and Gentlemen – Please take your seats.

Maj Lawrence Sale and Maj Peter Clark and Maj (Retd) Roger Swift meet HRH The Countess of Wessex backstage

The evening approached and before we knew it, it was time to go on. As I walked onto the stage I could hear all the people in the audience and I will admit I was so nervous! This was the first time since 1983 that The Massed Bands of The Light Division (as it was known then) had been on this stage under the now retired Director of Music, Major Swift. He was a guest conductor for us that evening and still recognised a few faces in the massed band! In the audience was the Colonel-In-Chief, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, and five Royal Colonels, HRH The Duke of Kent, The Earl and Countess of Wessex and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. Also, there was my Mum and Dad so I was doubly nervous.

The National Anthem went well and as the first half progressed nerves seemed to be levelling off. As the massed bugles entered there was an excited round of applause from the audience. There were plenty of impressive solos throughout the night, with standards being set by Lance Corporal Campbell doing an oboe solo in ‘English Folk Song Suite’. The Pipes and Drums of The Brigade of Ghurkhas played very well that night too, and as they stood in front of me I had a few minutes to relax out of the audiences view.

The Rifles Fijian Choir 

A flash of light as the drums took up the beat

The second half started very atmospherically with ‘Fanfare for the Common Man’ and as the drum was struck flashes of light went across the stage. This atmosphere was short lived however, as it soon broke into a big band version with some fantastic solos, including one from Musician Bushell. After a few more pieces the bugle sounded for ‘High on a Hill’. This piece was definitely well received by the audience (and on a side note this was the 56^th playing of the piece this year)! I don’t think people are ever going to have had enough of it!

The guest soloist Wynne Evans came sung ‘Love Farewell’. Despite him being under the weather it still sounded amazing. Then came the big piece of the night, well for me anyway! We played ‘Peninsula’, composed by Ian McElligott, who was in the audience. The first movement came and went with no mistakes and then it was the moment I had been dreading/anticipating/looking forward to. Half way through this movement was a very prominent piccolo solo that I was playing…. and luckily all the practice paid off and it went well! I was so relieved.

‘No More Parades’ by  the Lone Bugler

The Lone Buglar

After this was the final piece. Everyone who had performed that night came back onto the stage and Charlotte Collier sang ‘Land of Hope and Glory’ and ‘Rule Britannia’. There was a lot of singing along and swaying and then fireworks and streamers shot round the room and across the stage. The concert ended in traditional style with the regimental march, ‘Mechanised Infantry’, being played and then a lone bugler playing ‘No More Parades’.

The night was probably the highlight of my army career so far and was so enjoyable. It was an amazing experience that I will probably never get to repeat but I will always remember. Despite this I’m glad to be now going on leave as I think my ears need a rest from buglers and my nerves need time to settle again!

Corps of Army Music takes on PARAs

Fastest Female ‘Tabber’.

From State events around London to parades for our troops, concerts or Rock and Pop Bands, the Corps of Army Music Bands can be seen at events around the world. A number of Bands have visited Afghanistan, performing traditional military music and popular Rock and Pop music, something the troops can really engage with and join in. The Corps also has an operational capability; CAMUS personnel can volunteer for various roles from Driver to Military Stabilisation Support Group (MSSG).

Musician Kate Bent is in the Band of The Parachute Regiment, part of the Corps of Army Music. She plays the Saxophone and Rock Guitar and has supported troops with music around the world including Afghanistan.

PARA’S 10 endurance

I first became aware of the PARAS’ 10 endurance race in 2009 when my Mum ran it in memory of my brother, Pte Joe Whittaker, 4 PARA, who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2008.  It’s a challenge I’ve wanted to undertake since, but the opportunity had never quite materialized until this year.

Signing up for the challenge

CAMUS PARA 10 Team

When I heard that there was to be a new PARAS’ 10 race to be held in our hometown of Colchester, I knew that this was the ideal time for the band to get involved. I had expected maybe three or four others to want to join me, so I was thrilled when 11 others signed up to the challenge.  While many choose to run the course, the “P Company Challenge” of completing the gruelling 10-mile course in less than 1 hour 50 and carrying a 35lbs Bergen (rucksack), as undertaken by The Parachute Regiment recruits, seemed fitting for the Regimental band!  As musicians (CAMUS), we undertake an 8-mile ‘tab’ once a year, but this involves carrying 15kg and we have a 2 hour time limit.  The PARAs’ 10 is 2 miles further, 6kg heavier and for those of us hoping to achieve the time, 10 minutes quicker!

P Company isn’t a requirement in the band of The Parachute Regiment, but when we are on parade, we represent the Parachute Regiment, so one of my reasons for putting a team in for the race was to give the band a chance to see how we fare against the regiment’s tough standards.

Running to the beat of the drum

CAMUS PARAS 10 Team

Music of course involves working together, but this is a totally different way of working as a team.   Two band members have passed PARA training earlier this year and so their experience and high levels of fitness were very helpful when planning our training.  I wanted to embrace the ethos of the PARAs by pushing ourselves and exceeding the notion of just doing what’s necessary. The support we have had from The Parachute Regiment Charity, the Corps of Army Music Trust and of course PARA Band has been immensely encouraging.

Race day arrived early on Sunday 21 October (especially considering we only got in from a concert at 1 o’clock that morning) as we collected our race numbers and the PTIs weighed our Bergan’s.  We met up with a few other musicians from the Prince of Wales’s Division and Heavy Cavalry and Cambrai bands, and were led through an entertaining warm up by the PTIs.  The running race started at 11, followed by the “tabbers” 5 minutes later, and 542 of us fought our way across the start line for a good position.

The course started through Merville Barracks, which was fairly easy terrain and a chance to make good time.  I was certainly glad we’d done the first couple of miles fast as we were soon hit with all manner of obstacles to slow us down, from waist-deep water crossings to practically a whole mile of ankle deep mud.  I’ve never seen so much mud in my life as we were faced with at the 6 mile point!  Despite the energy-sapping nature of the course, we kept pushing ourselves, and the encouragement from the 16 Air Assault Brigade marshals spurred us through the last couple of miles.  All of the band team did fantastically well, and either achieved or exceeded their expected times, mostly with smiles on their faces as they crossed the finish line!

I was extremely shocked when, having been given my finisher’s medal, I was told that at 1:44.55, I was the first female to complete the course.  This made it extra special for me when the Band’s fanfare team arrived to play for the prize giving and I was awarded the trophy for Fastest Female ‘Tabber’.

Afghanistan… preparing to deploy

Lieutenant Tom Shorland-Ball, Second-in-Command of B Squadron, Royal Dragoon Guards (RDG), is preparing to deploy to Afghanistan on operation HERRICK 17. The Royal Dragoon Guards will have two, quite separate roles during their tour. One Squadron will be working as the Warthog Group (a brigade-level asset) with the remainder working alongside Afghan police forces as part of the Police Mentoring Advisory Group (PMAG). Over the course of this tour, soldiers and officers will be describing their varied experiences in this blog.

Here, Lt Tom Shorland-Ball describes the build-up to deployment.

Afghanistan… here we go! As I’ve watched Alma Lines slowly emptying over the last month or so, the anticipation of what is coming has been mounting, not only amongst my call sign, but the whole of B (The Black Horse) Squadron and indeed the Royal Dragoon Guards. Needless to say, we have been hearing back from the troops who have deployed early, but nothing will match one’s own boots hitting the desert. For some, myself included, this is a first tour and so anxious excitement has been mounting throughout the whole of the Mission Specific Training (MST) package which has run from January but for the old hands, who have the legacy of Op HERRICK 12 and one or even two Op TELICs before that, it is the familiar rotation of preparation, reassurance to the tour first timers, and goodbyes.

A Squadron, Royal Dragoon Guards, carry out casualty evacuation training during the final exercise.

Morale is good – I never thought I would see the day where I listened to young soldiers with wives and families tell me that they just wanted to go, but then I suppose the sooner you leave, the sooner you get back. I joined the Regiment in September 2010, at the beginning of Hybrid Foundation Training, having finished at Sandhurst the previous month and so I have been fortunate to have been put through the full two year training rotation, which includes nine long months of MST.

One of my soldiers arrived from basic training last week, yet he too will soon be qualified to deploy and will be doing so with myself and the main body. MST, the long tailed beast that it is, has entailed everything from exercises in Thetford and Salisbury plain to obtaining too numerous to count weapon and vehicle qualifications and driving around the countryside of North Yorkshire on patrol with the NYPD (North Yorkshire Police Department!).

Families and friends get up close and personal with a Challenger II main battle tank on the Dettingen weekend in June.

Basic survival in Afghanistan

One of the memorable occasions that sticks in my mind during this training was the celebration at Families Day on the Dettingen weekend in June. Not only was this a chance to celebrate the British-German allied victory against France in 1743, in which our antecedent regiments were instrumental, but it was also an opportunity for families of members of the Regiment to gather in a casual environment and enjoy themselves on the various stands, looking at vehicles, weapons and enjoying a few drinks, games and rides. It was a rare opportunity to meet the soldiers’ families and friends, and was as important to me as any of the MST exercises, as it put into context all of the soldiers that I have the pleasure of working with on a daily basis.

These training events have given us the chance not only to hone the necessary skills and drills for basic survival in Afghanistan, but allow one to build relationships with the other units which will be on the ground with us. As a Police Advisory Team (PAT) you are required to visit multiple Afghan police checkpoints daily and spend a lot of time moving from one to the next, and it is only with a good relationship with the other troops on the ground that this can safely be achieved. I can confidently say that I am looking forward to working closely with 40 Commando Royal Marines and Delhi Company, 1 Royal Gurkha Rifles.

Finally, am I nervous? Naturally the answer is ‘yes’, but this is heavily outweighed by the fact that I am about to deploy on a trip that I have been wanting to go on ever since I started craving to wear green in about 2000. I am excited and I feel ready. I am sure it will be good. Let’s just see.

Postman to Soldier – New Recruit becomes a Soldier

Rct-Richardson

Rct Richardson has recently completed Phase 1 training at the Army Training Centre Pirbright (ATC(P)).  He is set to start training at Blandford Camp as an Electronic Warfare Systems Operator shortly.  This new career move was to be a massive change for both me and my family, but I was certain that the upheaval would be worth it for such a challenging and rewarding career

 

Week 11 – Annual Combat Marksmanship

‘In the firing line’

This is undertaken by all soldiers in the army every year, but this was to be our first.  My shooting has been on a bit of a rollercoaster.  Some days I find I do quite well and others not so well, leaving me a little concerned about my today, so, as I was in the second detail I just sat and watched the others shoot.  This gave me a good chance to see how it all worked and in what order.  I was rather nervous when I started my ACMT, I messed up 300m and also 200m.  I had managed to compose myself by the end of the shoot and passed the 100m and 50m.  Disappointed, but I knew I had to perform well in order to pass the re shoot.  I passed both the failed distances second time round.  Not what I really wanted; a first time pass would have been nice, but at least I passed in the end.

The end of the week we had our output TAB; the first four miles as a squad, at around four miles an hour, then the last two miles where our best effort.  We were able to run or TAB and I knew I could pass it just tabbing, but I wanted to get a good time.  The first four miles were steady, with a bit of running to warm us up and then we were on our own.  I ran the first mile, then a combination of tabbing and running for the second mile.  We had 30 minutes to complete the two miles and I achieved a respectable 18 minutes, 11th in the troop.  I was very pleased with my result.

Apart from having to re-shoot a couple of distances in the ACMT, this week has been very enjoyable.  I have crossed a few more tests off the list as I move ever closer to the end.

Week 12 – Forward Operating Base (FOB)

This is the last Exercise we complete at Pirbright.  This is what we have to look forward to next week, but first we had two days this week in the FOB.  This gave us a chance to experience life in a FOB, working the gate and stagging on in the sanger.  We had a few lessons on various procedures to follow while on sentry duty on the gate and how to react when you come under indirect fire (IDF).  This rather amusingly meant when the Cpl let a dummy one off we had to lay face down in the gravel, arms tucked in; it looked like we were all playing ‘dead fishes’.  We also had our photos taken, our Section, with Cpl Verth in the centre flanked by us.  This will definitely make a good Christmas present for friends and family!

We had a live Fire + Movement assessment on the Tuesday; moving down the range one bound at a time then taking shots at electronically controlled targets.  As a section we had an inspection first and one of us got picked up for not having a clean barrel, not too bad though.  Once the inspection had taken place we commenced the live firing part of the competition.  We did well as a section, but unfortunately we didn’t win.  We were a respectable 2nd out of the seven Sections taking part.

The CS gas still stings a little

CBRN training

Wednesday and Thursday we had CBRN practice and then practical test.  We had been taught various drills to be completed in a CBRN suit and a respirator.  We had a practice on the Wednesday and it went well.  The CS gas still stings a little, but this time we didn’t have to breathe it in or open our eyes, so no ‘funny’ photos this time.  Thursday test went well, did my drills as practiced and more importantly I didn’t panic!

Counter IED (C-IED)

C-IED training

The end of the week we had our Counter IED (C-IED), practical and theory.  These lessons we’ve had on C-IED are some of the most interesting and I quite enjoy them.  We had our practical first; been able to spot possible IEDs and also markers and then we had our theory test.  2 Section had all rigorously revised so the test was relatively easy.

What mates are for! 

The highlight of the week had to be our day release.  This is where you are allowed off camp on a Saturday afternoon.  I didn’t have any money, but the lads in 2 Section kindly offered to put a couple of pounds in each to help me out; that’s what mates are for!  We enjoyed an afternoon in Guilford, wandering about in and out the shops.  More importantly we had time to go to Nando’s for dinner!  It was nice to be off camp and chill out for a bit, especially as we have Exercise FINAL FLING next week!

Week 13 – Exercise FINAL FLING

This was the week we would embark on Ex FINAL FLING; this was to be our last Exercise; a culmination of all the skills we had learnt in the last 12 weeks.  I was apprehensive about FINAL FLING, mainly because of the rumours you hear from Troops ahead of you.

Night Patrol

The Troop Commander briefed us on the situation in the area, enemy and friendly positions, strengths and weaknesses, all designed to add a little realism to the Exercise.  The weather was abysmal; the rain was bouncing off the ground and flooding the square outside our block.  While we waited to deploy we kept our spirits up by singing songs in the corridor, often attracting strange looks from some of the staff!  We deployed in the rain and tabbed to our chosen harbour location, once all that was set up we got into normal routine.  Later that evening we went on a patrol to gather intelligence on the enemy.  Patrolling at night is exciting, you feel very aware of your surroundings and strange noises you hear.  We returned to the harbour and set up stag; not fun in the cold rain getting out of your warm sleeping bag to sit for an hour.

Battlefield Casualty Drill (BCD)

Tuesday, after morning routine, we went on another patrol.  This time we came across two enemies laying IEDs.  Just as we approached there was a loud explosion; one of the IEDs they were laying went off.  This meant our recce patrol became a casualty evacuation (casevac).  We casevac’d the men to a helicopter landing site then continued on our patrol.  On the way back we came under attack and had to return fire and peal into a nearby wood block.  We regrouped then returned to the harbour, with a snap ambush injured both the ATO men.  We had to rapidly get them into the FOB and then perform our battlefield casualty drills (BCD).  What an exciting and eventful day.  I was crying out for a good night’s sleep, but it wasn’t to be; more stag keeping watch in the sangars.

Enemy attacks

Following the recent activities and the enemy increasing in numbers in the area, our Troop Commander decided that at first light the next day we would commence more section attacks on enemy positions and eradicate them from the area.

We woke at 0430 hours, prepped for battle then left the FOB.  We had planned two section attacks.  We patrolled out in arrow head formation, once the enemy made contact, we engaged.  I was in the flanking fire team and like the previous section attack on Wednesday we comfortably eliminated the enemy.  When we reached the last enemy position our Section Commander, Cpl Verth was injured in a blast.  It was then our job to casevac him out of the area as quickly as possible.  Cpl Verth is well built, and it took all our strength and determination to carry him to a safe location.

Once we arrived we were faced with friendly causalities lying on the ground.  We then had to administer first aid and carry out our BCDs.  This was made harder because we were all starting to feel the physical strain.  I dealt with the casualty with a severe limb loss.  I followed my BCD booklet; applying a tourniquet and field dressing and I think I did quite well.

Stretched to the max

Casualty Evacuation

Just when we thought the Exercise was over, we were shown two stretchers, each with a large dummy on.  We had to, as a Troop, run the stretchers what felt like 2km.  This was exhausting, but as soldiers we dug deep and with determination we finished the run.  We had done it, we had finished FINAL FLING.  We returned to the FOB for a well earned meal of bacon, sausage, eggs and beans, and of course a large cup of tea.  That had to be one of the best tasting meals I’d had, knowing we had completed FINAL FLING.

Ex FINAL FLING had to be the most exhausting and exhilarating experience of my life.  Not sure I’d do it any time soon, but never say never!

Week 14 – The end in sight

Richardson – Stick orderly

Our last week in Pirbright has finally arrived.  We just have a lot of drill to learn for our Passing Out Parade on Friday and of course a lot of bulling to do.  Monday to Thursday we learnt a lot of rifle drill, I learnt the drill, but on the day I won’t have to do rifle drill.  I won the award for Best at Drill, so instead I get to carry a stick and accompany the Colonel on the big day.  Wednesday evening we went to Sandes and had a cuppa and a burger with Cpl Verth, it was nice to have a relaxed chat with him as we were nearly soldiers in the British Army and no longer recruits.  Thursday we had a dress rehearsal for pass off, it went well, but it didn’t stop me feeling apprehensive about the day.

Friday had arrived; we got to wear our Section T-shirts to breakfast.  The T-shirts we designed ourselves and have our Section on, a little emblem and have our Section Commander’s and our names on the rear.  It felt really good wearing them, as we had seen so many Troops before us wearing them and looked forward to the day we would.  We got dressed, put on our number two suits, our well bulled shoes and our caps and were ready to march onto the square.

Marching with Pride

As the band started I felt nervous and excited.  The moment we marched onto the square I couldn’t have been any prouder.  The Parade went well; it was fantastic for all my family to see me on the square and also pick up my award.  All that hard work I put in over the last 13 weeks had finally come to an end.

A New Family

‘Passing Out’ Parade

I felt relieved it was all over.  I was looking forward to spending some time with my family before starting my Phase 2 training.  I am excited about my trade training at Blandford Forum in Dorset, but also a little sad to say goodbye to the lads of 2 Section who I have lived with for the last 14 weeks.  I am so happy I did what I did in choosing to join the Army; I am part of another family.  With that in mind I finally wish the lads of 2 Section all the best in their future careers; Horrix, Carr, Stanley, Hughes, Colvine, Doherty and of course my Section Commander and mentor Cpl Verth.

The Last Hurdle

 

Rct-Horrix

Rct Horrix has recently completed Phase 1 Training at the Army Training Centre Pirbright (ATC(P)).  He is set to start training at Blandford Camp as an Electronic Warfare Systems Operator shortly. Fitness has always been important in my life, I was looking to find a career which encompassed fitness, travel, new experiences and a job where I would be making a difference.  The British Army to me amalgamated all of these ideas and I decided to go for it.

Week 11 – Test Week

So onto week 11 this is known as test week along with week 12. Monday started with the Dismounted Close Combat Trainer (DCCT), in preparation for the ACMT on Thursday. This DCCT was for us to practice our firing positions and get used to firing with no help from the Troop staff which is how it works on the Army Combat Marksman Test (ACMT). All went well and assisted me in feeling confident for Thursday. We then had a five mile (Tactical Advance to Battle) TAB in preparation for our 6 Mile test on the Friday. This was really hard going as they worked us really hard to ensure we were ready for Friday. It’s the hills which really get to you, but if you are struggling you can always count on a little ‘gentle’ encouragement from the Physical Training Instructors (PTIs) or Troop staff. Once we finished I felt like a baby giraffe, but was glad it was completed.

Shooting Straight

Dense woods on the heathland around Pirbright are not good for agriculture – but they are good for military training. This is near Aldershot, the “Home of the British Army”

We spent all of Tuesday on the ranges in preparation for Thursday. This was a live fire practice shoot at 50m, 100m, 200m and 300m. I shot really well and was one of only six people to pass the shoot, which gave me a confidence boost going into Thursday.

We then had our haircuts first thing Wednesday morning which I don’t like as I get pretty attached to my hair, but we all need to look the same so off it went. At least this was the last time we had to have a number two all over, so can at least start looking normal again! A Basic Life Support test was next, which went really well. This is an integral skill which I wanted to do well at, as this is something which I might have to use in the future, not just in the Army but in coming across any situation even in civilian life. All the lads did really well on this and passed. We spent the evening in the DCCT, practicing for the ACMT the following day. This was a good opportunity for us to further practice our positions and get our shooting head on for the following day.

So the day of the ACMT arrived and I was feeling pretty confident. We went straight into it in the morning. I was put in the first detail as I had been one of the most consistent shots in our Troop. I performed really well, hitting a lot of targets at 300m, 200m and 100m, however, I somehow failed at 50m which I was bemused at especially as I hit 5/5 on the re-shot. Anyway, I passed the shoot which is a big hurdle for all recruits to overcome.

Tactical Advance to Battle

Friday morning we had our 6 mile TAB first thing. I was a little apprehensive as it is 6 miles with weight on your back, but was determined to do well. The first four miles we completed as a squadded march which was fine. It was then two miles best effort, which I ran pretty much all of apart from tabbing up the hills. I got a time of 18 minutes 50, which I was pleased with. That put me about 8th in the Troop. Following this, we had a lesson on the rules of engagement with the Troop Commander so we know the do’s and don’ts on operations.

Not a bad week all in all, quite a lot going on but really happy to pass my ACMT and output TAB, two big hurdles out the way!

Week 12 – Preparing for the final push

So Monday and Tuesday of week twelve consist of completing Ex FINAL FLING Phase 1. This is where we get to spend a night in the Forward Operating Base (FOB) to fully understand how it works in preparation for FINAL FLING the following week. FINAL FLING is our final exercise which brings all the skills we have learnt together and puts them into action for a week. We had numerous lessons whilst in and around the FOB such as learning to throw grenades, how to stag on the sangers, searching personnel and how to deal with Indirect fire (IDF) coming in. All lessons were really good, but the best was yet to come.

We went on a night patrol with the Section and Corporal and got into a huge fire-fight, putting all the skills of Fire and Movement into action. Once we had won the fire-fight we had a casualty evacuation (casevac) back to the FOB. This was really hard work as you are carrying dead weight on a poncho (improvised stretcher), and having to run as hard as you can. We carried the casualty what felt like over a mile and is really a test of your strength, fitness and mental toughness, coupling this with adrenaline you really go for it as if it is a real life situation. I definitely slept well that night.

On target

Early rise Tuesday morning; for our Section Fire and Movement assessment on the ranges against the other six Sections in the Squadron. We had to run 300m as a Section and then hit seven targets from different distances. It was hard work as you are out of breath when you get to your first firing position, but I did well hitting 7/7 targets, as did most of the lads in the Section. We came 2nd out of seven Sections, which was a good achievement although we did miss out on first place by one point. Whilst on the ranges we also completed our Battlefield Casualty Drills (BCD) test. This is where you are put into scenarios and you have to treat a casualty effectively utilising skills we had been taught in previous lessons. All went well and everyone passed.

Wednesday morning started with a practical CBRN lesson, learning different drills which we would have to demonstrate in the test the following day. We learnt how to clean our respirator and ourselves (Decontamination drills) whilst still in a chemical environment, oxygen canister changes, drinking and eating drills and emergency drinking drills. It is easy to see if you haven’t paid attention as you will inhale the CS gas and start coughing during the test. Luckily, I did the drills correctly and didn’t get exposed again – thank God!

The afternoon consisted of our final assault course session, which was really hard work. We did log races around the track, then going straight onto the assault course as a Section best effort. I felt like I was going to pass out, but got through it. We also had to practice casevac’s, so our PTI’s really pushed us hard, but I guess they were always going to considering it was our last session. Looking back, it was good fun though.

Appointment with Cpl Verth

We completed our final Personal Fitness Assessment (PFA) on Thursday morning, completing press ups, sit ups and a 1.5 mile run. I did really well, smashing 80 press ups in two minutes, 71 sit ups and a strong time on the mile and half. We then had another appointment Cpl Verth for our final CBRN test. This consisted of completing all the drills we had been taught in the chamber the previous day and ensuring they were all correct as these are life saving skills. We also had questions on CBRN once we passed the practical phase to make sure we understood all the theory too, so when I was told I had passed I was pretty relieved. Cpl Verth looked a bit down as this would be our last practical period in the respirator test facility and he does so enjoy CBRN.

Friday morning consisted of a PT session in the pool where we completed swimming races which were good fun and a change from the usual swimming PT sessions which tend to really take it out of you. All afternoon was concentrated on C-IED where we completed our practical assessment, doing 5m and 20m checks. This is checking the ground in and around you for signs of IED’s and potential hazards. Everyone passed and was something everyone took very seriously due to current operations and how this skill can definitely be a life saver. We also had a theory test to make sure we had understood all the principles, which again everyone passed.

This was the two test weeks now completed which was a big relief. Now just one more major hurdle in Ex FINAL FLING before I can think about getting on the parade square and passing out of Pirbright. Looking forward to FINAL FLING and putting everything I have learnt into action, although I know I will be hanging out by the time it finishes.

Week 13 – The FINAL FLING

I Woke up Monday morning with mixed emotions about FINAL FLING this week. I was looking forward to it, but a little apprehensive with what to expect, coupled with the fact it was monsoon weather as we set off on FINAL FLING. We started with an intelligence briefing from the Troop Commander about the situation (Scenario), we were going into. The training team wanted to make this a realistic exercise so we were moving into an area which contained enemy, IED’s etc.

We tabbed to the area where we wanted to set up our harbour and started to go through the motions, i.e, set up a snap ambush, then started digging in our harbour area. Once this was all done your mindset changes – to start thinking strategically and like a soldier. Our first day was quite relaxed, until the evening when we went out on our first patrol. We had heard of an enemy position so we went out on a recce patrol, to further understand the enemy, their base, how many there were, weapons being used etc. Once completed, we went back to the harbour area and started our stag rotation – fun!

Self detonation!

Woke up Tuesday morning pretty cold and wet due to the weather, but it’s just a case of getting on with it. We went out on patrol Tuesday lunchtime to dominate the ground and try and pick up further intelligence. I was point man in the patrol (First man), so had to keep my eyes peeled. We came across two individuals who were laying IED’s which actually blew them up. We assisted them and casevaced them out, whilst gaining information on what they had been doing. As we continued our patrol, we got ambushed and after suppressing the enemy we pealed out, re-grouped and moved back to the harbour area. Later that night, we went out on a recce patrol to find an enemy position and gain further intelligence. Following this patrol, the decision was made to attack them the next day.

Commence Attack!

Wednesday morning was quite relaxed, making sure our kit was all clean, rifle in good working order and then the order was given that we were to commence our attack. I was appointed as grenadier for the attack which I was looking forward too. We broke our Section into two fire teams, one to be used as fire support (Delta fire team) and Charlie fire team which were the ones to commence the main attack. Our Section Commander orchestrated the attack placing Delta where they needed to be, and then we (Charlie) started doing fire and movement to get closer to the position. Delta and Charlie were both attacking the position suppressing the enemy, then as my job was the grenadier, I had to crawl to the enemy position, post a grenade then follow it up and kill the enemy. This was awesome and really good fun. We then searched the enemy dead and their base, moved back to our harbour to brief the Troop Commander on what we had found.

Under Attack!

Early hours Thursday morning we got attacked in our harbour and IDF’d, so we had to move from the harbour area) pretty sharpish. We then tabbed to the FOB (Forward Operating Base) and set up for the next night. I was appointed 2IC (Second in Command) whilst in the FOB, it was good to be in a position of responsibility.

We went out on our first patrol to scan the area, coming across two farmers who supplied us with a lot of information on enemy in the area and IED’s. Other rotations that day meant being on security at the FOB, and being part of the quick reaction force (QRF) who are there to support any patrols who get into trouble. Later that evening when I was part of the QRF, a patrol came across an IED, so we were deployed along with an IED team, which we had to escort.

The situation was controlled, but as we came back into the base the IED team ironically stepped on an IED. As 2IC, my Section Commander told me to control the situation which I did by getting the injured back into the FOB, getting them medical care and ensuring everyone knew what they were doing, whilst keeping the situation calm. My Section Commander was pleased with how I handled the situation.

Driving the enemy out

Following this, the decision was made from the Troop Commander that we were going to launch an attack the following morning to fully drive out the enemy from the area. We were told what we were going to do and to be ready to move at 0530 am.

Now getting up at 0430 am to get ready for an attack is hard work as you are not awake, let alone thinking strategically on what needs to be done. However, that quickly changed once we set off. We reached our rendezvous point at 0630 ready to commence our attack. We had to attack two enemy positions of which I was grenadier on the first attack and 2IC on the second. Both attacks were quite long, hard work but really enjoyable. At the end of our last section attack our Corporal got shot, so we had to casevac him out of the killing area. Our Corporal is a big guy, so this was pretty hard. We also came across three more causalities, which needed to be treated ASAP. As 2IC, it was my responsibility to command the situation which I did and everything went well.

Through gritted teeth

At this point, I thought that was the end of the exercise, but we then had a surprise casevac. We had two heavy dummies on stretchers between our Troop and had to run with them for about 1 kilometer. This was really hard work as we were mentally and physically exhausted, but this is when it becomes mind over matter, gritting your teeth and pushing through. Needless to say, we worked hard and got to the end. This was the end of the exercise. We tabbed back to the FOB, cleared everything up and moved back to barracks, where we cleaned our rifles and our kit.

An Awesome experience

I can honestly say it is the best and hardest thing I have done in basic training and would tell all other recruits that they will feel the same way. Next week is week 14, the week of our pass off. Looking forward to this so much, but not looking forward to a whole week of rifle drill!!!!!

Week 14 – ‘Pass-Out’ week.

‘Soldiers Soldier’ Award

A week we had all worked hard to get to and one I wanted to enjoy every minute of. The week started really well as I was told that I had won two awards on pass off, Soldiers’ Soldier, which is an award voted for by the recruits on who they feel has upheld the Army’s Core Values and performed best. I was really happy to have won this as it’s your peers who recognise your ability, even though there were numerous people who could have won it. I was also awarded Best Recruit which was a real honour. So, this would mean marching up and being presented two medals on pass off in front of my family which I couldn’t wait for.

Drill

Monday started quite slow, getting a lot of kit sorted from exercise last week and then spent the rest of the day practicing rifle drill. I thought I was not going to like rifle drill as drill has not been my favourite activity at Pirbright, but I actually quite liked it. Tuesday was quite similar, we had to make sure the block and our Section room was highly cleaned, we returned our military kit which we would not be taking to Phase 2 and then completed more drill. We marched onto the square to practice the pass out format, which definitely got me looking forward to Friday. We also had an hour of PT where we completed an orienteering competition which was good fun.

Wednesday started with a couple of lectures to do with pay and a lesson from the Padre. We then had sports PT, where we played kick ball. This is an adaptation of rounders but you kick a football instead of using a bat. It’s a pretty good game and everyone seemed to have a good time doing it. Following this, we had drill where we completed a run through of our pass out parade with the Sergeant Major. This went really well, and again got me buzzing for Friday. Thursday was much the same but this time we had a full dress rehearsal with the Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM).

Everyone had to be on their A game as if you mess up bad you could potentially not be allowed on the square to pass off. Fortunately, everything went well and the RSM was happy although with a few minor tweeks needed. Thursday evening came up and everyone had a really good night, even if it was a little sad as it was our final night and I am going to miss this Pirbright and the friends I have made.

Finishing Phase 1

‘Passing Out’

Friday morning had finally arrived, woke up feeling pretty nervous but happy in knowing I am finally finishing my Phase 1 training. We started the morning by going to the cook house with our section T-shirts on which we had the tailor make. Our Corporal joined us and I could see he was going to miss us (Not that he would ever admit it!). Following breakfast, we got changed into our No 2 dress and got prepared for our pass out. After a few words from the Sergeant Major, we marched onto the square in front of all our families. This definitely made the blood and sweat shed over the last 14 weeks worth it. The parade went really well and I was really proud to have to march up and receive my awards too. We then had a celebratory drink (a beer finally) with our family and friends. It was then time to leave and embark on a new challenge, Phase 2 training…………………

It’s been an experience

Pirbright

I will leave Pirbright with lots of memories and ones which I will remember for the rest of my life. I’ve had some great times and less great times, but overall it is an experience I am glad I challenged myself to achieve. Phase 1 is pretty difficult to get through so I am looking forward to going home and relaxing for a while.

I want to wish everyone in Mather Troop 2012 all the best for the future, but especially 2 Section where I have made some friends for life. I want to wish Carr, Colvine, Stanley, Hughes, Doherty and Richardson (2 Section) all the best in the future and their careers. A special thanks must got to Corporal Verth who has taught me a lot and who has been nothing but kind (cough). Jokes aside, I have learnt a lot from my training team and many skills I know I will apply in my future career, so a big thanks must go to them.

But, for now I must say Adois to Pirbright and hello to Blandford where I commence my Phase 2 training………………