DRAGOON GUARDS 1ST THE QUEEN'S - THE REGIMENTAL JOURNAL OF - 1st The Queen's Dragoon Guards
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THE REGIMENTAL JOURNAL OF
ST
1 THE QUEEN’S
DRAGOON GUARDS
The Cavalry Regiment of
Wales and the Border Counties
‘The Welsh Cavalry’
Swanton Morley 2020 Volume 9 No. 1
1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards 1
1st THE QUEEN’S DRAGOON GUARDS
Colonel-in-Chief: HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS THE PRINCE OF WALES
Colonel of the Regiment: BRIGADIER A S RICHMOND OBE
Commanding Officer: LIEUTENANT COLONEL H T LLOYD
Allied Ship
HMS MONMOUTH
Allied Regiments
THE GOVERNOR GENERAL’S HORSE GUARDS (ROYAL CANADIAN ARMOURED CORPS)
THE 11TH CAVALRY (FRONTIER FORCE) PAKISTAN ARMY
1ST/15TH ROYAL NEW SOUTH WALES LANCERS
PANZERGRENADIERBATTAILLON 35 (AUSTRIAN ARMY)
1ST RECONNAISSANCE REGIMENT (SRI LANKAN ARMOURED CORPS)
1ST SPECIAL SERVICE BATTALION (SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL DEFENCE FORCE)
Paired Army Reserve Regiment
THE ROYAL YEOMANRY
Twinned Regiment
1ER REGIMENT ETRANGER DE CAVALERIE (FRENCH FOREIGN LEGION)
Allied Royal Air Force Squadron
IV SQUADRON THE ROYAL AIR FORCE
Affiliation
THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF THE LEATHERSELLERS
The Regimental Journal of
1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards
Editor: Major J Curry
Contents
Volume 8 Number 11 Swanton Morley 2020
Colonel of the Regiment’s Foreword ... 3 The Weight of Waiting ....................... 34 Field Training Unit ............................. 58
Colonel Commandant’s Foreword....... 5 Officers’ Mess .................................. 36 ATC Pirbright ................................... 59
Commanding Officer’s Foreword ........ 6 WOs’ & Sgts’ Mess .......................... 38 RATD ................................................ 59
Honours and Awards .......................... 7 Cpls Mess ....................................... 39 1st Reconnaissance Regiment
Sri Lanka Armoured Corps ............... 60
Diary of Events 2020 .......................... 8 Troopers’ Bar.................................... 40
A Squadron ........................................ 9 The Leathersellers’ Company ........... 61
LCpl Emrys Jones 959 ..................... 40
B Squadron ...................................... 12 1 Special Service Battalion ............... 62
EX WESSEX STORM ........................ 42
C Squadron ...................................... 15 E Squadron – Dyfed and
Pontins ............................................. 46 Glamorgan Army Cadet Force .......... 63
HQ Squadron ................................... 20
COVID-19......................................... 47
Regimental Comrades Association ... 64
Cassino Tp ....................................... 22
PNCO Cadre 2020 (C Squadron) ...... 48
Regimental Home Headquarters ....... 64
Command Troop ............................. 27
Ex MULLENS CUP ........................... 50
Regimental Trust ............................... 65
Training Wing .................................... 28
Rugby .............................................. 52
RCA Christmas Delivery
Welfare ............................................. 29 to Cassino Tp Families...................... 66
Boxing .............................................. 53
Light Aid Detachment ....................... 29
Golf .................................................. 54 Heritage Trust ................................... 68
SPS Detachment .............................. 30
Basketball......................................... 54 Firing Line ......................................... 70
Catering Department ........................ 31
Mountain Biking Adventure Training .. 55 Regimental History Book .................. 71
RAP.................................................. 31
Squash ............................................. 55 Obituaries ......................................... 72
Gymnasium ...................................... 32
Field Sports ...................................... 56 Valetes.............................................. 76
The Guardroom
(Regimental Duty Staff) ..................... 34 7th Infantry Brigade HQ ..................... 58 Regimental Gazette .......................... 81
© Crown Copyright. This publication contains official information. It should be treated with discretion by the recipient. The views expressed in the articles in this journal are those of the author and
do not necessarily reflect the policy and views, official or otherwise, of the Regiment or the Ministry of Defence. No responsibility for the goods or services advertised in this journal can be accepted
by the publishers, printers or the Regiment and advertisements are included in good faith. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior permission of the Regiment and Publisher.
This Journal is published on behalf of the Regiment by:
Crest Publications
12 Brooklands Court, Kettering Venture Park, Kettering NN15 6FD
Tel: 01536 317000 • email: journals@crestpublications.com • www.crestpublications.com
1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards 3
Colonel of the Regiment’s
Foreword
The year 2020 will be recorded by history
as a most extraordinary time in which
every aspect of life was dominated by
the Pandemic. Rarely does our country
face such a serious threat that affects
the lives of every citizen, especially in
peacetime. It is at such a time that the
value of our Armed Forces is brought
into stark relief as the nation looks to our
Service personnel in its hour of need. We
can all feel an immense sense of pride
in the way the Queen’s Dragoon Guards
played its part in Operation RESCRIPT,
the military contribution to the national
response to COVID-19 as described in
this Journal.
Despite COVID 19, the way the
Regiment successfully stepped up to
the plate to take on an enhanced role
on Operation CABRIT and prepared
Cassino Troop for deployment to Poland
was hugely impressive. The ‘Troop’ is a
squadron size part of a US Army battle-
group and is the UK contribution to the
NATO-led deterrence force in Poland. Of
note, this commitment was originally allo-
cated to our paired Army Reserve Light
Cavalry Regiment, The Royal Yeomanry,
but the pandemic disrupted their ability to
conduct collective training, so QDG was
tasked to force generate the
bulk of the command element,
based on B Squadron. Thus,
two thirds of Cassino Troop
are Royal Yeomen, which has As we all
been an outstanding oppor-
tunity for Regular-Reserve
hibernated and
integration and bringing our went online,
Regiments closer together. so did most of
The strength of our regimental
family was once again high- the QDG social
lighted by the efforts of the activity but the
Regimental Comrades Associ- RCA network to keep a keener eye on alike, as well as maximise the power of
ation (RCA) in raising funds to the welfare of our veterans, our network. Our Army Cadet Force and
ensure all members of Cassino of branches especially during the lonely Combined Cadet Force detachments
Troop knew that they were not enabled us to months of lockdown. This give us a firm link into Welsh society and
forgotten and all, irrespec- demonstrates to me the offer excellent opportunities to improve
tive of capbadge, were sent
keep a keener value of RCA membership diversity in our recruit pipeline. It would
a present and their families a eye on the and I would dearly love be good to develop an eco-system
hamper for Christmas. welfare of our to see more members of whereby QDG Cadets feel part of the
Unfortunately, the pandemic our Regimental family join family, join QDG and then return as expe-
removed so many social events veterans the association. Current rienced Cadet Force Adult Volunteers to
from our diaries, including membership sits at less inspire the next generation to make the
the annual Officers’ Dinner, than 1/3rd of the member- same journey.
Cavalry Memorial Parade, the ship of the QDG Comrades We are also ensuring those serving
RCA Cardiff Reunion as well Facebook group. Please away from the Regiment are kept
as Branch events. I joined some of my encourage your mates to join up, it costs close and I welcome the Commanding
QDG contemporaries via Zoom to watch less than the price of a couple of pints! Officer’s initiative to form F Squadron,
the livestream of the Cavalry Memorial COVID has not prevented us from comprised of all those at Extra Regi-
service, which was a great initiative by making progress in our efforts to enhance mental Employment, who will be invited
the event organisers. the connectedness across all parts of back to the Regiment each year for an
As we all hibernated and went online, the Regimental family, by which we can annual update, career management and
so did most of the QDG social activity but build a community that will be of benefit no doubt a drink or two! No longer will
the RCA network of branches enabled us to all its members, serving and retired the only correspondence with those
4 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards
Our Welshness
at Regimental Duty be confined to an them on QDG so that they has been and dedication that enables
unwelcome mess bill! Harnessing this can better sell the Regiment diluted due to so many of the fun things
serving network has enabled us to to candidates from our a combination that our soldiers enjoy to
monitor developments in the ongoing Recruiting Area. We will happen, in an era when the
Integrated Review and the news of a also reinforce our physical of the RAC and public purse is less forth-
significant injection of cash for Defence presence in Wales and are Capita’s corps coming. I am particularly
was very welcome. We can draw comfort enhancing our social media pleased that the Trust has
that Light Cavalry is cheap, capable, presence to strengthen the
and role-based generously supported the
deployable, useable and in demand as it QDG brand in our heartland approach to publication of a new Regi-
is committed to operations in Poland and and broaden our appeal. soldier inflow mental History, which will
now Mali. The Light Cavalry community As our role is to operate cover 1959 to the present
of 6 regiments (3 Regular and 3 Reserve) amongst the population, to as well as day. If you want to feature
is innovative and has a very collegiate engage and understand the the impact of in it, please forward copies
approach to capability development and environment and pass back of photographs, documents
exemplary Regular-Reserve integration. timely and accurate infor-
being based in and any written accounts
Indeed, the new Welsh Yeomanry troop mation to the commander, Norfolk of your service or particular
established in Cardiff is an example of it is vital that we can effec- events to our Regimental
the depth of our relationship with the tively engage with men and Curator, Mark Evans at
Royal Yeomanry. For the first time, our women from all cultures Home Headquarters, 1st
soldiers who leave and settle in South and faiths. Having a more The Queen’s Dragoon
Wales can continue to serve as Light diverse organisation made up of men Guards, Home Headquarters, Maindy
Cavalry Crewman with the Army Reserve and women of many ethnic, cultural, Barracks, Cardiff, CF14 3YE ast-cu-
and operate alongside QDG. linguistic and faith backgrounds is not rator2@cardiffcastlemuseum.org.uk.
Work is underway to bring the political correctness – it is an operational The year 2021 offers exciting pros-
Regiment up to full manning with Welsh imperative. pects, not least the end of this Pandemic
and Marches recruits. Our Welshness Our wonderful Trustees have yet and the chance for all of us to gather
has been diluted due to a combination again been busy managing our finances, once again. For the serving Regiment
of the RAC and Capita’s corps and role- supporting those in need and ensuring it promises operational deployments
based approach to soldier inflow as well that not only does our museum survive and the chance to do the job it does so
as the impact of being based in Norfolk, the lockdown, but that the cultural well and that will ensure the Regiment
but we can do more to shape our destiny. heritage of our Regiment is continually remains First and Foremost!
We are developing our relationship with enhanced. We should all be grateful for
Capita’s Recruiting staff and educating their expertise, generosity with their time
1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards 5
Colonel Commandant’s Foreword
It was reputedly the Chinese who came up
with the curse ‘May you live in interesting
times’ – a curse because ‘interesting’ in
this context means something between
‘turbulent’ and ‘terrifying’ – so it is ironic
that the interesting times stemmed ulti-
mately from China. However, the Royal
Armoured Corps have risen to the chal-
lenges and as always have stepped up
to assist in this time of national crisis. We
have supported Op RESCRIPT widely,
including staff support in HQs, running
Testing Centres and units on standby for
COVID support forces; we have worked
from home without diminishing our oper-
ational output and whilst there is always
further to go, have become used to doing
e-business. As Armoured Commanders
we all endeavour to master the ability
to monitor two nets, read a map, write
a SOC, and direct a gunner all whilst
the turret is facing the opposite way to
direction of travel. These traits have been
tested to new levels as we juggle the
multiple technological modems that we
find ourselves currently tied to.
This is not to say, of course, that remote
working will become the rule across the
board in the future. We remain a people
organisation and remote working is a
reversionary mode. The camaraderie of
the Royal Armoured Corps, as of the
British Army in general, is one of its most
precious assets. But, as much as we
enjoy this camaraderie, we are not inward
looking. We are all linked by social media;
smart phones enable instantaneous
transmission of footage from anywhere
in the world. We must be fully integrated
with this, and exploit the opportunities
offered by social media in a
way we have not been able to
before. Our plan is to harness
our growing social media
feeds to improve our message We are all
and extend its reach and by so
doing, improve both recruiting linked by
and retention. social media; Sword of Honour winner allies. Having recently returned from
Having mentioned recruiting; at Sandhurst in the Spring. Gotland, Sweden where I was fortunate
our manning is generally
smart phones The quality of those we enough to see newly delivered and highly
good, though there is more enable recruit is as good as it ever impressive Leopard 2A5s; one could not
to do. As a Corps we should instantaneous was. These are all positive be more struck by their approach to Total
certainly be attractive to those factors, but I am conscious Defence. With both the Swedish and
thinking of joining us. There transmission that we may well need to Norwegians increasing their investment in
are opportunities to deploy our of footage change as a result of the Armour, its and therefore our importance
capabilities – in Mali, Estonia, from anywhere Integrated Review. cannot be forgotten. This is a matter of
the Balkans and Poland. The lessons from balance to enable an all Domain capa-
There is convincing evidence in the world COVID show the impact bility throughout the spectrum of conflict.
that we are a popular choice to a country if not fully We ‘combined arms’ and embraced
of Arm, with five candidates prepared for a threat. With jointery to leverage capability that, as
for every single RAC place ever growing numbers the Israelis found, was wanting during
at Sandhurst. Those that we of Russian armour in the early hours of the Yom Kippur War.
do accept have vindicated their selec- the Western Military District, we must We need a nationally credible armoured
tion by their outstanding performance. maintain a sovereign and credible military capability as part of that balance and can
Recently, the top ICSC(L) student was capability, with the power to deter our ill afford to be found wanting.
an Armoured Corps officer, as was the enemies and inspire confidence in our
6 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards
Commanding Officer’s Foreword
2020 has been a busy, challenging, fluid,
demanding, rewarding, unforgettable,
noteworthy year. And like no other. It’s
actually rather difficult to summarise. It
has featured the highs of an outstanding
performance on Exercise Wessex
Storm and the pride of our soldiers in
responding to the pandemic and the
lows of having to cancel some training
activities and remove so much of the
‘fun’ of soldiering (sports, adventurous
training, social events, overseas travel) to
comply with government direction.
What is clear to me, as it will be to you
as you read this journal, is that against
a maudlin backdrop of tremendous
uncertainty and a febrile national atmos-
phere Queen’s Dragoon Guard soldiers
have delivered. Every time. Without fail.
Being ‘at readiness’ has, undoubtedly,
helped. But I attribute our successes support of Operation RESCRIPT. This have helped develop resilience and
far more to the unerring quality of our ranged from ambulance driving and robustness which are essential qualities
soldiers and officers. They go about all delivering personal protective equipment of a reconnaissance soldier, particularly
tasks with characteristic professionalism, to establishing mobile testing stations as we aspire to increase our reach.
humour, humility and care for others. and supporting mass testing in both As I look ahead, 1st The Queen’s
That approach is underwritten by pride, Liverpool and Manchester. Additionally, Dragoon Guards has the best forecast
camaraderie and the unstinting support we supported local government depart- of events in the British Army. Bar none.
they receive from family which includes, ments with planning officers. Each a In 2021 Queen’s Dragoon Guard soldiers
in no small measure, that of the wider bespoke, unique and short notice task will continue to deliver operations in
regimental family. it demanded much from our people; Poland, train in Cyprus and Louisiana
The year began (seemingly a lifetime you will not be in the least surprised to and deploy - twice - to Mali on Opera-
ago and in a different world) with the hear me affirm that our soldiers excelled, tion NEWCOMBE. Operating as part of
build-up to Exercise Wessex Storm. The displaying compassion and innovation in the United Nations-led peacekeeping
exercise lived up to its name; we met equal measure. force our soldiers will bring their recon-
Storms Ciara and Dennis head on. This In the summer we were able to resume naissance expertise to bear by operating
was the first time since 2013 that the more familiar activity, having adjusted across vast areas of challenging terrain
whole Regiment had exercised together working practices to account for new to deter violent extremist groups from
–from tooth to tail - and the first time since norms. We conducted regimental firing attacking the local population. Following
operations in Afghanistan in 2011/12 that alongside our paired regiment - The a coup the situation remains precarious
all three sabre squadrons had deployed Royal Yeomanry - in Warcop in July. and the military contribution vital.
together. It was important then to get Concurrently we force prepared a Upon recovery from operations we
back into the battlegroup business and hybrid regular and reserve squadron - intend to - and we must - double-down
enhance our reputation as an opera- Cassino Troop - for its deployment to on sport, winter sports, adventurous
tionally-ready regiment. The brigade-led Poland. Led by Major Ben Matthews, training and overseas activities to recoup
exercise put 5000 soldiers into the field. Cassino Troop was something of a first. our losses from 2020 and recuperate
We had realistic frictions not only of All arms, majority Reserve (including and retain our people. Alongside this we
tough environmental conditions but of all attachments) but led by a Regular have a coherent plan to bolster Welsh
genuine battlefield congestion, flanking QDG command spine, it deployed on and Marches recruitment and better
force fratricide and follow on forces Operation CABRIT in September for six nurture those in training.
who acted (or not) on the intelligence months. Operating as part of a US Army 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards
we provided. The QDG battlegroup was battlegroup, the Squadron is contributing remains at readiness. We are on oper-
‘validated’ as early as possible and came to the NATO-led deterrence on Europe’s ations now. We are preparing for
away with a strong training report that eastern flank. Its inception raised chal- operations in Africa. We are living with
sets us up for operations in 2021. We lenges, but it has served as an accelerant COVID-19 but neither letting it define nor
were also able to leverage the exercise to our relationship and highlighted mutual restrict our non-discretionary outputs.
to conduct low level experimentation. dependencies and benefits. The rela- We are institutionalising our relationship
We are grateful to several retired QDGs tionship continues to thrive, evidenced with The Royal Yeomanry. And we are
in defence industries who supplied us in splendid fashion by the support of reinforcing our recruiting efforts. We,
with early prototypes and joined us on an comrades from both regiments who so the serving regiment, have the privilege
industry visitor’s day. generously gifted hampers to the families of service at home and abroad and the
Shortly after Exercise Wessex Storm of every soldier deployed. opportunity to add to our great regi-
we refocused our efforts on supporting During the autumn we ran a superb ment’s proud history. I thank all members
the national response to COVID- Mullens Cup (this year a two-day of the regiment - from soldier to spouse,
19. Queen’s Dragoon Guard soldiers mounted and dismounted patrol across comrade to family member - for your
operated throughout the east and north- Salisbury Plain) and a hugely demanding support in helping us remain ‘First and
west of England on discrete tasks in survival patrol across Otterburn. Both Foremost’.
1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards 7
Honours and Awards
State Awards
MBE WO2 Dave Evans (160 Bde CTT)
Service Medals
Nil
Commander’s Awards
Chief of the General Staff Commendation - Corporal Gwilliam (REME)
Commander Field Army Commendation - Sgt Wilkins
Training Awards
Light Cavalry Crew Commanders Course Top Student: Cpl De Jongh
REGIMENTAL AWARDS
Queen Elizabeth Trophy
Sgt Wilkins
The Leathersellers’ Trophy
Cpl Pugh
The Mann Trophy
LCpl Murphy 611
8 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards
Diary of Events 2020
January
06-17 CSTTX Germany
26-02 March Ex WESSEX STORM
Feb
Throughout Wessex Storm
March
23-03 April Ex AFRICAN LION
Sunset over Salisbury Plain
April
July
18-7 May CSF Support to East of England
Ambulance Service 12-31 Regimental Ranges
27-4 May Nottingham Regional Testing Centre 6-31 August MTUs
(RTC)
28-5 May Lincoln (RTC) August
29-17 May Mobile Testing Units 8-31 Summer Leave
May September
4-17 Javelin Operators Course 1-11 Ex CASSINO KING
18-22 Javelin Ex on STANTA 9-13 Mullens Cup Prep
18-5 June Panther Comds and Drivers Course 14-18 Mullens Cup
22-31 Easter Leave Block 1 21-25 CASSINO Tp Leave (PDT)
23-25 Sniper Ranges
June 28 CASSINO Tp Deploy
1-26 Jackal Drivers Course 28-2 October Ex EVASION EAGLE
3-7 7x Comd Visit
1-9 Recce Skills Concentration October
10-11 ACMTs 5-23 Inflatable Wall Training System
15 -17 Leadership Development 5 - 11 Dec HCR Basic Sniper Operator Course
15-26 Lt Cav Reserve Tactics Pre Course (Bulford)
20-28 Easter Leave Block 2 10 -12 Long Weekend
25-8 July PNCO Cadre 13-14 UKSF Brief
26-12 July Ex Yeomanry Venture 24 -29 Ex Slims Stand
24-1 Nov Half-term
26-11 Nov Jav Op Course
November
10-21 Ex Dynamic Victory
9-19 Crew Commanders Pre Course
(Scots DG)
2-23 Ex Cerberus
20-9 Dec PNCO Cadre
21-23 Long Weekend
22-27 Ex Bald Eagle
December
7-11 Cold Weather Course CASSINO Tp
8-9 Sharpshooter CQM
Ex WESSEX STORM – Sgt Edwards helps his Tp Ldr with map reading 12 Christmas Leave1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards 9
A Squadron
Throughout all of recorded history,
mankind has had one common goal. It
has always sought to gain an insight in
the thoughts and actions of the gods.
From the Oracle at Delphi to present-day
megachurches, the mere mortals of the
world have used whatever means avail-
able to gain a glimpse of exactly this.
Within this fine regiment, it is no different,
albeit the means are of a less spiritual
nature. Yearly, all eagerly await the publi-
cation of the journal article of the first
squadron of the ‘First and Foremost’, A
Sqn QDG. This year is no different, and
I hope it sates their hunger for another
year.
2020 has been a year to remember. from the New Year’s festivities as the by means of the weather. The instant that
When my predecessor, Charlie Ruggles- requirements for a major exercise swiftly the Squadron’s ability to freely return to
Brise, wrote in the 2019 iteration of this came to the forefront. The Tp Sgts in camp was removed, the sky opened in
journal of ‘another busy year ahead’, I particular must be commended for Old Testament fashion. With three weeks
suspect that he did not know how pres- turning this around succinctly but thor- in the field upcoming, the first two named
cient that statement would be. It will of oughly, with the Squadron departing in storms of 2020 were unleashed to ensure
course come as no surprise that the good order to the Plain. that not a moment of this would be
activities of the Sqn have, much like the With arrangements finalised, we subse- spent dry. Indeed, in a cruel twist of fate,
remainder of the UK, been focused upon quently rolled out the door in late-January Storm Dennis coincided with a 70km
the battle with Coronavirus. Nonethe- for the exercise proper. Wishful hopes road move throughout the Salisbury AO.
less, I hope to illustrate that despite this of a mild winter were immediately This was undoubtedly a low moment for
tumultuous period, we have managed dashed as the Squadron faced weather many, not least LCpl Protheroe who had
to achieve a plethora of other more reminiscent of the some interesting opinions to share on the
activity whilst also making the Eastern Front circa 1942. utility of open architecture vehicles. It is
most of the hand dealt to us. Fortunately, at this stage testament to the spirit of all the soldiers
In what would unwittingly of the exercise, some that they persevered through in the face
turn out for many to be the Charlie luxuries were afforded, of the adverse conditions.
only overseas ‘holiday’ of with indoor sleeping and With the end of Wessex Storm, the
2020, the year began with a Ruggles- warm showers in the Squadron eagerly anticipated a few
number of A Sqn personnel Brise, wrote best accommodation that weeks in camp prior to some well-
acting in a supporting capacity 1950s Britain could afford. earned leave, and perhaps a bit of travel
in the 2019 Sgt Hatton was particularly to warmer climes to forget about the past
on CATT/CAST in Sennelager,
Germany. This was a major iteration of fond of the accommoda- few months. In particular, ten individuals
event prior to Exercise this journal of tion, reminding him as it looked forward to a rock-climbing expe-
Wessex Storm and saw did of his childhood in rural dition in Oman organised by Sgt Sudlow
LCpls Diamond, Protheroe
‘another busy Wales. and Lt Martel, in what would no doubt
and Murphy well-rehearsed year ahead’, I The initial exercise have been a welcome reward for their
in setting up tents and sitting suspect that he period was a steady one.
Hard groundwork on the
time on Salisbury Plain.
Meanwhile though, China’s experimen-
behind computer screens,
skills in which every soldier did not know tank park set the condi- tations in unusual cuisine were beginning
should hone their expertise. how prescient tions for the Squadron to be noticed. Few could have even
Significantly it offered the to deploy on low-level contemplated even at this late stage
opportunity for members of
that statement refresher periods on the that the news reports of a new version
the Squadron to reacquaint would be ground. In this time, the of Coronavirus would have such sudden
themselves with the ancient Tp Cpls were fundamental nor far-reaching implications. Nonethe-
town of Paderborn, with the to training their subordi- less, with just two weekends at home
best cultural insights appar- nates, and to them the under our belts, a sudden and sharp
ently to be found inside of credit must go for how well lockdown placed the entire Regiment
Triangles Nightclub. this was achieved. This training was into an imposed self-isolation period in
For the remainder of the Squadron, rewarded with a periodic night in-camp, RBSM.
“2020 proper” started with all hands-on with all the afforded comforts, which had It is at this point that the Prime Minister
deck in preparation for Exercise Wessex many saying ‘this isn’t so bad.’ called for the aid of the military in tackling
Storm, which would see the QDG vali- The higher powers, however, decided the new enemy, and he of course turned
dated for operations. Having returned that they would punish our arrogance, to his right-hand men, the 1st The
from Christmas leave, there was namely in thinking that we could escape Queen’s Dragoon Guards. With notice
undoubtedly a sharp change in pace their reaches. This was done, of course, to move timings apparently carrying no10 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards
tangible meaning, we were stood up to as the most operationally experienced It was also at this point that a change
prepare for numerous MACA taskings, officers in the Mess. in command took place. Charlie
wheresoever we were required. It should be noted, however, that Ruggles-Brise, having for two years led
A Squadron were initially called up even at this, the most severe stage of the Squadron from strength to strength,
to support the East Anglia Ambulance restrictions, the vision of a number of handed over the reins to me at the begin-
Service in driving Covid patients between NCOs within the Squadron ning of July. I am immensely
hospitals in the region. Cpls Couch and enabled some key training grateful to him for the
Parsons took charge of over a quarter to take place. At a low-level, smoothness of this transi-
of the available Squadron workforce the Cpls and Sgts managed tion. Socrates famously said
and ably ran A Squadron’s contribution. to instigate a series of Charlie that ‘societies grow great
Whilst ostensibly under the auspices of Lt rigorous fieldcraft lessons when old men plant trees
Cooper of C Squadron, much authority on the barracks training Ruggles-Brise, whose shade they may not
was delegated to them to run the task. area, something that offered having for make use of.’ Whilst I can
It is a major accomplishment that they a welcome break from only apologise to Charlie
were able to take charge of the situation in-camp isolation. Particular
two years led for the implied slight on his
and run it so smoothly. commendation must go the Squadron age, it is with this statement
Despite these efforts though, Corona- to Cpl Turner who, ably from strength in mind that I thank him for
virus continued to ravage the UK. The assisted by LCpl Hickmott, handing me an organisation
decision was made that further support managed to design and run to strength, that is so well-prepared for
was required and A Squadron was once a Javelin Operators Course, handed over the new tasks that lie ahead
more sent into the fray. all in the context of navi- in 2021.
The most prominent of these actions gating the minefield that is
the reins Into the post-summer
was the QDG’s assistance to Mobile Covid restrictions. A meticu- to me leave period, A Sqn was
Testing Units (MTUs), which took place lously planned and executed again immediately thrust
from mid-April. A Squadron complete three-week course saw a into the action with two
was rapidly mobilised to the far reaches new generation of oper- back to back exercises in
of the East of England, delivering daily ators qualified across the September. Mullens Cup
testing to such exotic loca- regiment, with A Sqn’s own was a chance to shake-out and compete
tions as Lowestoft and LCpl Murphy placing top of for the title of being the most adept Tp
Skegness. No element was the cadre. in the regiment. All performed admirably,
left untouched, as even The easing of Covid however of note was Cpl Flower’s perfor-
the LAD were called upon restrictions in July saw a mance, having last-minute been thrown
to make up the neces-
A Squadron return to more usual regi- into leading a team with little prepara-
sary workforce. It was a complete mental life. Whilst a number tion or training behind them, achieving a
particular baptism of fire for was rapidly of personnel were again strong performance in the process.
2Lts Allington, Al-Khamiri tasked to conduct Mobile Immediately after this, everyone was
and Carter who, having mobilised to Testing, the majority of again deployed to Otterburn on a SERE
only recently arrived from the far reaches the Squadron deployed to training event, which turned out to be
Sandhurst, were launched Warcop on three weeks of even more gnarly than we feared. The
straight into leading teams
of the East of regimental ranges. For most highlight of this was watching our trained
on the frontline. Of them I am England this was a welcome return killers rapidly dispatch and dismember all
incredibly jealous; few new to the normal battle rhythm, manner of creatures, from chickens to
Troop Leaders are fortunate and more importantly a crickets, in a fashion that would have had
enough to arrive straight chance to see the world even Bear Grylls on the phone to PETA.
onto a deployment without outside of Norfolk, even The final foray of the year was yet again
even having completed Phase 2 training. if they had to settle with the marginal an unexpected one. November, for A
They now proudly join Capt Brockless improvement of Cumbria. Sqn, promised to be a period of focused
Having finished the building on the left, they
would soon start on the building on the right1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards 11
activity. For many, a trip to German of minimal workforce and condensed Life Support to an elderly man who had
stamping grounds of old was looked timelines only seemed to further high- collapsed whilst he was on charitable
forward to, courtesy of the requirement light the futility of the task. Nonetheless, work in Dereham, and not to be forgotten
to play civilians for a Sandhurst exercise some stellar work from SSgt Reyes-Con- are the eight individuals who volunteered
in Bavaria. treras and Sgts Benfield and to return to Poland on Op
Alas it was not to be. Coronavirus Wilkins meant that this was CABRIT to aid our partners
dictated the agenda for one final time in achieved, and to an impec- in the Royal Yeomanry.
2020. With days to go, the Squadron was cable standard. With 2020 now behind
stood up to deploy to Pontins Southport To further add to the Cpl Hutchings us, I would like to leave a
to assist in the mass testing of Liverpool. list of impossible tasks, few parting comments. This
Upon arrival at the camp itself, the mantra Lt Al-Khamiri and Sgt Pitt received has been a year in which A
of ‘civvies pay thousands dozens for this’ were also assigned with a note of Squadron has been relent-
appeared to be founded. Nevertheless, running the PNCO Cadre commendation lessly committed to an effort
the anticipated levels of despondency on STANTA. A Sqn again greater than itself, and one
were nowhere to be seen, with the performed exceptionally well for applying for which we should be
atmosphere being decidedly more cheery on this course. Of particular Basic Life rightly proud of ourselves.
than could possibly have been predicted. merit were the performances Our achievements are
In part, credit can go to SSgt Comley’s of Tpr Williams 261, who
Support to unique amongst the British
tales of his own holidays there, which had received the award for Most an elderly Army, and I would like to
many incredulous that they should be so Improved and Tpr Haden man who had take the opportunity to give
lucky to stay at such a prestigious ‘resort’. who placed as Top Student. my thanks to a number of
More significant to morale however was A strong showing all round. collapsed people for this. Firstly, to the
the fact that all were afforded greater In and amongst all of this whilst he was soldiers who have displayed
luxury than they would receive in-camp, Regimental and Squadron an indomitable spirit in the
particularly in having their own toaster activity, there have been
on charitable face of an uncertain and
and hot and cold running water. plenty of individual achieve- work unremitting period of tasks.
Concurrently to our expedition into the ments to note. LCpl Murphy Secondly, to their families,
wilderness of the Northwest, the cancel- was awarded with the Mann who have had to take an
lation of numerous trawls and exercises Trophy for best Tpr of 2020, equally stoic attitude and
meant that further activity could be under- whilst Sgt Wilkins received without whose consistent
taken in camp. In a time-honoured ritual, the Queen Elizabeth Trophy for best support my work would have been far
A Squadron yet again chose to receive SNCO in the Regiment followed swiftly harder. We now look forward to 2021,
the vehicle fleet for a number of weeks, by a Commander Field Army’s Commen- and a year full of unbridled opportunities
fixing them in order to hand them over dation. Cpl Hutchings received a note ahead.
to someone else. The added frictions of commendation for applying Basic JOMC
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and The Museum of Military Medicine12 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards
B Squadron
A fast and furious start to 2020 saw B
Sqn prepare and deploy on Ex WESSEX
STORM 1/20 this was followed by the
challenge presented to all, COVID-19,
which changed (but did not decrease) the
tempo before a more familiar rhythm in
the middle and latter half of the year took
hold as the Sqn supported the deploy-
ment of Cassino Troop to Poland on Op
CABRIT, took part (and won) the Survival
Evade Resist Escape (SERE) exercise,
competed in Mullens Cup (did not win!)
and conducted various other activities
before preparing and (just about at time
of writing) deploying a Force Protection
team to Kenya.
Anticipation was high within the Sqn
as we deployed to Salisbury Plain to
play our part in the first Regimental CT4
test exercise since 2013. The team
was ready for all that was thrown at us Battlegroup operations. The rain on the pleasure in highlighting this mishap to the
having had a good run in the previous CALFEX will be memorable for all who world via the dreaded Facebook!
year through conducting OPFOR on WS were present, rarely have we witnessed Moving into the Battlegroup phase
4/19 and Regimental CAST and CATT. such a volume dropped in such a short after a freezing night on the Rookery we
Arguably the biggest chal- period, typically the OC had utilised the whole Plain to best effect
lenge we faced was the taken this moment post raid as we sought to out manoeuvre the
environmental conditions a to not have any Gore-Tex on! OPFOR. We were joined by a troop of
particularly stormy February The route reconnaissance Royal Yeomanry in the R-WMIKs who
would throw at us, as the across Wiltshire was enjoy- added crucial additional depth to the Sqn
vehicle crews grappled with The rain on the able particularly for the SSM, enabling greater freedoms in execution of
the testing waterlogged and CALFEX will WO2 Dale Thomas, whose tasks. The weather throughout was poor
slippery ground – they rose packet just so happened to and tested vehicle crews to the max both
to this challenge brilliantly.
be memorable find a rather nice farm shop in terms of safe driving and commanding
The exercise started with for all who and café en-route, I’ve not and in sustainability and endurance with
a live fire range package to were present, heard the end of how nice the constant rain and wind threatening to
get us to the start state for the Brie and Bacon ciabatta degrade the crews if they let their admin-
the combined arms live fire
rarely have was since! Tied to this part of istration get away from themselves.
exercise (CALFEX) which we witnessed the exercise was the magnif- As the phase began we all enjoyed
would follow. Lt Seb Maxwell such a volume icent effort of 3rd Troop led the opportunity to face a relatively ‘free
ran the section attack lane by SSgt (now WO2) Rhys thinking’ enemy, no one more so than Sgt
with ever growing confi- dropped in Davies, to get themselves ‘Q’ Laqere of 1st Troop whose excite-
dence that he would exploit such a short (Troop complete) stuck in ment and eagerness in taking the fight
later in the year and Sgt Glyn a field after Cpl Tumpale to the OPFOR was both inspiring and
Williams led an excellent
period Mwamulima chose the more entertaining while no doubt being terri-
sniper package. Into the first scenic route to recce. This fying for those ‘enemy’ he came across.
phase of the exercise proper would have been fine had A crew that had numerous near misses
and we focused on Sqn it not been a field belonging as ground gave way under wheel, Q’s
level activity; a raid, CALFEX to a man whose barn had driver Tpr Gambrill, who had only turned
and route reconnaissance. With some been destroyed a few years back by a up to Regimental Duty the November
standout moments this phase helped wayward Artillery round and adjacent to before as a fresh faced 18 year old now
us iron out some creases ready for a Reserve Officer’s house who took great carried a 1000 yard stare and significant
B Sqn deployed complete on the BDTA1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards 13
experience, repeatedly stepping back
into the vehicle that more often than not
had been at a ‘sporting’ angle.
The pinnacle for the Sqn on the
exercise was the Battlegroup hasty
raid for which B Sqn had the key part.
Supplemented with two Troops from C
Sqn, giving a set of ‘bonnet brief’ orders
in under ten minutes, with no time for
rehearsals, a 20+km vehicle insertion, at
night and with two troops who
had not worked with us before
was a challenge, but everyone
rose to it. It was an incredibly
dark night with NVG barely …little did we Something very weird is going on here
helping as the lack of moon,
overcast and rain made even think that this was sadly ignominious as gence of our soldiers demonstrated and
following the man in front a would be the the OPFOR tanks struck their solutions to problems enlightening.
challenge. The C Sqn fire at the exact point of SHQ Standout soldiers in this regard were
support group got into place
last time we while credit was due to the Tpr (now LCpl) Tekin, Tpr (now LCpl)
in the nick of time led by an would gather OPFOR Recce Platoon Sweeney, Tpr (now LCpl) Roberts. LCpl
A Sqn recce team, Lt George socially for the who did well to sneak up Duthie-Thomas also produced some
Barham led the assault group on a callsign which only outstanding work that stood out for its
through dead ground to the next year found them when they trod thought and attention to detail.
start line (where, miracu- on ‘something soft’ as they To ensure the Sqn personnel were
lously ahead of schedule, we went to relieve themselves! getting out of their rooms we organ-
had to wait for 30 mins in the The Sqn celebrated a ised socially distanced PT in pairs on
freezing rain before starting successful exercise with a Mondays and Fridays utilising the airfield
the advance onto target), the SSM trip en mass to the Pizza Hut at Solstice we are lucky to have. Tied to this activity
gripped the CASEVAC with Sgt Yeates services a well-deserved post exercise would invariably be a number of stands
RY proving a force to be reckoned with meal using the money the guys had to develop the soldier’s cognitive abili-
in the CASEVAC dept and Sgt Josh spent on tick (mostly cans of Monster), ties and improve things such as vehicle
Petre putting his Brecon knowledge little did we think that this would be the recognition and problem solving. Led by
to good use brought enough Illum to last time we would gather socially for the the recently arrived Troop Leaders (2Lt
enable the break in over complex terrain, next year. Sam Upward, 2Lt Dickie Fulloway, 2Lt
aggression and coordination took care As COVID-19 took hold, and with Ed Dillon) this proved a good distraction
of the rest. The immense relief of seeing troops confined to RBSM and the blocks from the lockdown and got some much-
the fire support engaging as we moved our duty of care was to ensure they needed air into our lungs.
in was a relief, in reality this would be remained physically and mentally well. The Sqn initially supported testing
pinning the enemy down for now though The remote work given, although not through 1st Troop led by Lt George
it ensured a big tick for the QDG Battle always appreciated, produced some Barham with Cpl De Jongh stepping up
Group proving we could coordinate fires outstanding results with the raw intelli- as Tp Sgt. They did some sterling work
and movement. The less said about the
Sqn’s extraction the better as vehicles
got ‘bogged in’, one vehicle slipped off
a track into a precarious position and the
biting wind cut through the now sweaty
crews after a good 2km uphill extraction.
This pinnacle was followed by some
less dynamic but equally challenging
screening tasks before we were cut to 2
Royal Anglian Battle Group for their final
attack conducting Close Target Recon-
naissance and supporting the placement
of their fire support group. We had played
our part well to date not least through
Cpl Rich Brown who had found an excel-
lent ‘crows nest’ with the ability to view
across the AO and bring on to target our
anti-tank ambushes, they lasted 48hrs
before they were dispatched in a chance
encounter with the OPFOR. The end The BDTA perfectly replicating the jungle14 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards
early on with numerous reports coming
back to the Regiment about their excel-
lent ‘bedside manner’ and engagement
with the general public, we were rightly
proud of all their efforts.
It was at this time also that B Sqn
chain of command was warned off that
it would be commanding the hybrid
QDG/RY deployment to Poland on Op
CABRIT. And so ensued frequent trips to
Bovington to begin integrating the team
that was to be known as Cassino Troop
(read Sqn). With the total number of
people from B Sqn within Cassino Troop
small (OC, SSM, SQMS, Tp Ldr & Tp Sgt)
the Sqn was then committed
to helping train the deploying “Get in step!”
Cassino Troop. B Sqn 2IC,
Capt Joe Kite, led an impres- into equal teams mixed It was a sad end to a strong Sqn but
sive and excellent training with the Tranche 2 Royal pleasing that so many B Sqn personnel,
package across the summer
Despite some Yeomen the teams set off. who had developed lots in the last year,
months. Perfectly pitched, excellent Capt Joe Kite set off first would now be deploying on Ops.
the support he and the rest performances with his motley crew from The remainder of the Sqn started
of B Sqn gave was impres- SHQ, followed quickly by preparing for a short deployment to
sive; from basic lessons, to in testing Lt George Barham’s team Kenya in early 2021 to provide Force
supporting mentors, to range conditions on from 1st Tp and 2Lt Ned Protection at the British Army Training
support not least from char- Fetherstonehaugh’s team of Unit Kenya (BATUK) in the safe hands
this occasion whippets from 3rd Tp. SHQ of Lt Dickie Fulloway and Sgt Owain
acters such as SSgt Beal
(HQ Sqn) and Sgt Chater the prize found themselves overtaken Davies (AKA Dav 220). This came with
who dug out blind to ensure escaped the on the 2nd checkpoint but numerous challenges, as we welcomed
the Troop hit the correct start on the other side of the some volunteers from across the brigade,
state for operations.
Sqn area, some 60km away, Cpl namely five individuals from our paired
With Cassino Troop Donovan De Jongh and the Regiment, The Royal Yeomanry, as well
deployed in late September other half of 1st Tp sped off as some enthusiastic infanteers from 3rd
the remaining Sqn (50+ from the pack, going on to Bn The Royal Anglian Regiment and 4th
people) continued to train eventually win the compe- Bn Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment,
and compete in Regimental activity with tition with a mixed QDG and RY team. a real Regular/Reserve grouping contin-
an additional six RY in the Sqn who As usual in adversity some of our most uing B Sqn’s theme of Regular/Reserve
were to train up on the Javelin Anti-Tank junior soldiers shone as a young team integration.
missile prior to deploying (the first RY to of JNCOs led by Cpl Leighton Pritchard, A hastily organised training package
do so). they however ran into trouble two thirds was put together, and after receiving a
The first task as B Sqn Rear Opera- of the way round and, thanks to the plethora of different vaccinations, the
tions Group (ROG) was to compete with quick thinking of LCpl Tom Harcourt and Force Protection Platoon was ready to
two teams in the Mullens Cup. This saw Tpr Jordan Moore 443, averted disaster deploy. The only barrier in the way was
Lt Barham and 2Lt Fetherstonehaugh as they CASEVACed their team leader off Christmas Leave. Thankfully all returned
re-ORBAT into two formidable troops the hill to safety in challenging conditions. from leave in one piece, ready to deploy.
ready to tackle the challenges that would After some well-earned recovery time, As this article is being written B Sqn are
be thrown their way. Despite some excel- the ROG was further re-organised, as the deployed in both Poland and Kenya on
lent performances in testing conditions Regiment re-ORBATed for future opera- Defence Tasks. 2021 promises to be a
on this occasion the prize escaped the tions in Mali as part of Op NEWCOMBE. different year, reconstituting the Sqn post
Sqn and we look forward towards the In a drive to retain crew stability and team Poland and Kenya, taking on the chal-
next challenge. cohesion B Sqn gave C Sqn its well lenges that will be presented. The Sqn
Organised into small teams, B Sqn drilled 1st Troop to bolster their ranks, not deploying to Mali are developing their
stood ready to take on the challenging while also losing significant numbers in skills awaiting the next moment to add
Otterburn hills on the QDG SERE less cohesive groups to A Sqn who were value as a Sqn be it home or abroad.
Exercise. After re-organising the Sqn also being stood up to a similar strength. BM
LCpls Hopkins and DT plan their next night out After an epic struggle LCpl Hopkins
Completely and utterly carparked in Dereham approaches the finish line1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards 15
C Squadron
As for everyone, from editor, contributor
and reader to the publishers and members
of funny club, 2020 has certainly been
an odd year for C Squadron, 1st The
Queen’s Dragoon Guards. It began with
real promise when the Squadron took
part in the Regimental validation exercise
of Exercise Wessex Storm. There was
the prospect of a deployment to Nigeria,
numerous adventure training opportuni-
ties, and the whisper of being the first
Squadron to deploy on an operational
tour to Mali. However, as with everything
in 2020, these plans were turned upside
down by the pandemic. From 4* General
to Trooper, the Army battled with an
unknown and unprecedented enemy coincided with the three largest storms into C Squadron stores, although the
on UK soil, and one which transformed the UK has faced in recent years. New thought of a crew heating system in the
the way we interact and operate. As I crews were tested in these arduous heat of the Malian desert does raise a
write this towards the end of the year, it conditions, but it provided the Regiment few eyebrows.
is, however, important to reflect on this and the Squadron with the opportunity to Exercise Wessex Storm followed a
most unpredictable of years; not only cement new tactics and techniques and similar format to the majority of British
because of the excellent training which together everyone progressed through Army exercises, with a live fire package
did go ahead, but also to celebrate the the exercise well. As part of the wider starting proceedings. This was expertly
work which C Squadron, as with the Light Cavalry Capability Development and diligently run by Lieutenant Maltman,
rest of the Regiment, provided for Op programme, termed Project Thundercat, a new officer amongst the C Squadron
RESCRIPT, the military response to Major Charlie Ruggles-Brise managed to ranks. Once the exercise phase started,
COVID 19. I will therefore touch on these supply each Squadron with a vast array the three Troops of C Squadron were
highlights as well as giving a nod to 2021, of cutting-edge technology, from new tested on a series of battle exercises
a year in which C Squadron will be the sights, to warm/wet kit and drones. All which were designed to test them on a
first sub-unit from the QDG to deploy to the kit was tested exten- variety of reconnaissance
Mali on Op NEWCOMBE 2. This will be sively in the field. Predictably, skills, to emulate being at the
a momentous occasion and one which a considerable amount of front of a Brigade or Division.
the soldiers and officers are thoroughly this kit was either broken For many in C Squadron, this
looking forward to. or damaged; there is no There was no exercise phase was the first
better way to test it than in time they had operated in a
New Year, New Me field conditions! Thankfully,
better way large, combined arms envi-
There was no better way to start the the success of these trials to start the ronment which provided the
year than with six weeks on Salisbury means that as we begin our year than with inevitable frictions including
Plain. Not only did the Squadron have preparation for our deploy- off road driving, night driving
to contend with this touch of reality so ment to Mali, a lot of this six weeks on and trying to hit an H-Hour.
soon after the Christmas break but it also equipment is finding its way Salisbury Plain The exercise finished with a
Squadron raid, which took
place at the epicentre of
one of the largest aforemen-
tioned storms. However,
despite the frictions, C
Squadron conducted a successful raid
and once all was stowed away, made
the welcome return trip back to Norfolk.
Lt Lewis’s team hurrying to beat sweetshop closing time Crazy new BBQ design16 1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards
The Tp Ldr had promised them a babe in a stable They returned home by another way
Unprecedented Times work remotely and remain as proactive parts to assist and prevent them being
With heads held high after a successful and effective as usual. Virtual runs and overwhelmed by the vast numbers
yet testing Regimental exercise, atten- workouts became the new norm and of tests being conducted. Whilst C
tion turned to the remainder of 2020 and online courses the classrooms of the day. Squadron provided only eight personnel,
the many opportunities available. There The title for the military response to they conducted over 6000 tests in 10
was talk of a short-term training team COVID 19 was called Op RESCRIPT, and days, with an average of an impressive
in Nigeria, the possibility of deploying everyone in the QDG soon realised that 1400 tests being achieved each day.
to Mali and the exciting prospects of they would rapidly be involved in these Concurrently, Sergeant Humphreys and
Adventure Training and UK based operations. Lieu- his 16-personnel team set out with deliv-
sport. However, in March, tenant Cooper commanded ering COVID tests to four different care
rather than setting our sights a small detachment on homes. They ensured care homes and
on foreign shores, everyone Task Force Doogan, which vulnerable people had access to tests
had to start looking inwards C Squadron, as was used to transfer critical and furthermore, made sure that the
at our own domestic situ- with everyone COVID 19 patients from tests were able to get to laboratories
ation, as COVID 19 shook overwhelmed hospitals to quickly and safely for analysis. In total
the world. As with everything else, lifted those hospitals with greater 4196 tests were collected, and 13 200
in the Army, the rumours their laptop capacity using civilian ambu- tests were delivered over an eleven-day
started ahead of the reality. lances. From the comfort deployment.
However, rather unusually,
screens and of his ‘luxury’ hotel room, Towards the end of the military support
the rumours turned out to tried to work Lieutenant Cooper heroi- to COVID 19, C Squadron contributed
not only be true but, the situ- remotely cally coordinated the efforts to the set up and running of five Military
ation was also considerably of these ambulance drivers. Testing Units. C Squadron worked with
more severe that originally The commitment lasted personnel from 3 Royal Artillery and
predicted. Everyone was 22 days, used 15 ambu- rotated through the MTUs to ensure
told to stay indoors, stay lances and saw a total of 18 the testing was available for as long as
safe, and wash their hands. Understand- patients transferred. This was vital work possible. The testing units were crucial to
ably, commanders at all levels grappled and everyone in C Squadron felt proud the support to the government, with over
with this new reality and tried to under- to be part of the greater good. 16,000 tests being carried out in total.
stand how the virus would impact on A further C Squadron task under Op A special mention must go to Sergeant
the Army, an Army which prides itself Rescript, was to provide soldiers for the Morgan, who alongside delivering tests
on being proactive and ‘out and about.’ Nottingham Regional Testing Centre. C to the society, also managed to fix a car
C Squadron, as with everyone else, Squadron personnel were required to which turned up to the testing facility
lifted their laptop screens and tried to operate alongside their civilian counter- faulty!
An unsuccessful bid for the cover photo Yet more rangesYou can also read
