January 2012

THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

1
2

Here is the Larkhill-based team that

brings you The Gunner every month,
The RA Journal twice a year and The
Blue List annually.

OPSEC
The Regimental Secretary Col
(Retd) NG Quarrelle oversees all
publications

Editor
Maj (Retd) Mike Shaw
ALL articles and photographs relating to
can be reached on: continuing operations MUST be cleared through
(Civ) 01980 84 5652
(mil) 94322 5652 your chain of command, and be signed off by your
commanding officer, at a minimum. If you are in
Deputy Editor
Miss Kate Knowles any doubt please phone The Gunner: 94322 2204.
can be reached on:
(Civ) 01980 84 5241
(Mil) 94322 5241

Blue List
Miss Lucy Neate
can be reached on:
(Civ) 01980 63 4204
2012 calendar
(Mil) 94322 2204

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The Blue List

THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

Sgt Stanley and Sgt Mawby arriving

in PB SHAZAD. Full story on page
The Blue List will be produced early in 2012. It has been proving more of
eight. Back cover: The DRA, the a challenge recently to keep track of all postings and promotions; so if
RASM, COs, RSMs, CsRA, Comd 1 you have been posted or promoted this year, or if your copy of The Gunner
Arty Bde, Comd J GBAD and ADs has been going astray, please email, telephone or write to us at:
from HQ DRA on 8 December at the
DRA’s Conference. Gunner Publications, HQ DRA, RA Barracks, Larkhill,
The views expressed in this publication do
Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 8QT.
not necessarily reflect official opinion in any Tel Civ: 01980 63 4204 • Mil: 94322 2204
way. All articles and photographs published
in The Gunner become copyright of Gunner Fax Civ: 01980 84 5210 • Mil: 94322 5210
Publications and must not be reproduced
without permission from the editor. Email: gunner@hqdra.army.mod.uk
 3

Editorial January 2012

Registered Charity Number 244656

S o; here we are at the start of another brand new year

– my resolutions made and mostly already broken. I
mean – how could I possibly get through a whole year
on just one glass of wine a day? It was a silly resolution
in the first place…
All good Gunners will know that 4 December is the
feast day of St Barbara, the patron saint of artillerymen,
armourers, military engineers, gunsmiths, miners,
everybody else who works with cannon and explosives
and – so I am told – prisoners. Each year we celebrate St
Barbara’s Day on the Sunday nearest 4 December, which
this year, was in fact 4 December. At our St Barbara’s
Day service it was announced that the regimental church
at Larkhill, hitherto known as The Regimental Church
of St Alban the Martyr, would in future be known as
The Regimental Church of St Alban and St Barbara. It
is said that those who invoke the aid of St Barbara will
never die unprepared, or without receiving the last rites,
so perhaps we will see more of you in church next year!
I had a letter this month from Col Ian Tinsley,
telling me how he and his wife, Vicky, climbed
Mount Kilimanjaro in November to celebrate their
25th wedding anniversary, arriving on the summit on
Remembrance Sunday wearing their poppies. As a
free-standing mountain that sits almost on the equator
in Africa, it is easy to underestimate the scale of the
challenge this expedition posed. In another life, when I
travelled frequently to sub-Saharan Africa on business,
I once flew from Dar es Salaam (was there ever a city I
was more pleased to leave?) to Heathrow via Nairobi, in
daylight. The route included magnificent aerial views of A Light Gun in Patrol Base SHAZAD. Full story on page eight
Africa’s rift valley, the Nile, Khartoum, the Aswan Dam,
the Suez Canal, the pyramids, a smoke-shrouded Mount (4) Regimental news
Etna and the magnificent Alps. But what eclipsed all of
this was flying in a Jumbo jet over Kilimanjaro at 32,000 In action
feet, and seeing the massive, snow-capped mountain (7) 16 Bty (Sandham’s Company), 26 Regt RA on watch with
reaching up into the sky as if to touch the aircraft. At the Black Watch. (8) 159 (Colenso) Bty, 26 Regt RA spread out
20,000 feet it almost did! Breathtakingly beautiful, but over Helmand.
a monster to climb, so hats off to the husband and wife
team that achieved it. Up Front
As my period as editor of Gunner Publications winds (10) 3 RHA at Hohne on the range. (11) 4/73 (Sphinx) Bty, 5
down after seven years at the helm, I thought I might Regt RA alone at Albemarle. (12) 3/29 (Corunna) Bty, 4 Regt RA
make comment in my editorials over the next few move it in Mojave. (13) 14 Regt RA tough it out on the Cambrian
months on some of the things that have happened that Patrol. (14) Sky and sea diving from 16 Regt RA. (16) 100 Regt
stick in my mind. With a touch of pride, and definitely
RA (V) fast track to the Falklands. (17) 101 Regt RA (V) busy, at
at the risk of some immodest trumpet blowing, the first
thing that strikes me is that when Kate, Lucy and I
home and abroad. (18) The RHA Association reunion weekend.
(initially helped by Jan Oborn) first took on The Gunner (18) The RA CPD awards.
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

there was a much larger team producing the regiment’s

(19) Postings and promotions. (20) Ubique.
three magazines at Woolwich. Today the same job, and
much more is being done by three of us, at a much- (22) Regimental Family round up. (23) Letters.
reduced cost to the regiment. So if nothing else we have (24) In memoriam.
delivered value for money.
And now back to the new year. I may not have been Sport
capable of keeping my daft resolution, but whatever fate (26) A fitting finale to the RA carp angling season. (27) RA
has in store for each of our readers, 2012 is going to be
Nordic skiing success beckons. (28). The RA Hockey
a momentous year for me. Retirement to a new house
on Anglesey, a fishing boat with a mooring 100 metres Championships. (30) Rugby round up. (31) LBdr Guba is a cut
from the front door and a wonderful golf course just above at Kendo.
a mile down the road celebrating its centenary year –
what more could a man ask for? Except, perhaps, good
(33) Notices. (34) Competitions.
health…
4 regimental news

Honorary
RACF

The Welfare Secretary of the Royal Artillery

Charitable Fund is pleased to receive calls
for assistance from the serving and retired

Regimental Colonel
regiment at any time. If you need assistance
or you know of someone who does, please
telephone him on (01980) 63 4309 or
(Mil) 94322 2309.

Disbursements
B rig N Marshall OBE assumes the appointment of Honorary Colonel, 14 Regt RA into an
existing vacancy.
In November the RACF disbursed the sum of
£56,384 on 140 individual cases. From all
sources the sum of £181,719 was disbursed Calling all Gunners Sandown 2012
on those cases, making an average grant of
£1,298 for the month. Last year’s Royal Artillery Gold Cup race day at Sandown was a huge success and enjoyed by
all who attended. The race committee has been working hard on your behalf and has secured
a range of special deals for the next Gold Cup day on Friday, 17 February. These improved
arrangements, which apply for all serving or retired members of the regiment and their families
From a 27-year-old retired and friends, include
Gunner • A web page at www.sandown.co.uk/UBIQUE
I am writing to you to thank you for your which includes full details of the day including the purchase of reduced price entry tickets
very generous donation. Before I received • Park View Suite. This is a special entertainment suite in the main hospitality area which has
this opportunity of rehabilitation I had a very been reserved for the regiment. It provides anyone not going to a regimental marquee with a
unsettled life and was homeless on a number base for the day in the company of friends to enjoy the racing in comfort
of occasions, and as a result had very little • Privileged entry for all
clothes or personal possessions. The money • Bar/coffee/tea throughout the day
you have donated will help me no end. • Uninterrupted view of racing from covered balcony
I thank you wholeheartedly. This is your race day so put it in your diary. Come on your own or with family and friends. To
make a booking go to the web site above, or call Sandown on 01372 470047 and quote ‘Ubique’

From an 87-year-old
widow of a World War Two
Gunner
I am writing on behalf of my mother to thank
you for your contribution towards her electric
personal vehicle. My mother is 87-years-old
and this vehicle allows her the independence
to live a life without daily constraint.
I am sure my father would have been
proud to know that the contribution given by
the RA to his wife has allowed her the dignity
of living a fulfilling life.

Royal Artillery
From a 40-year-old
separated wife, left with
three children
My sincere apologies that it has taken until
now to write. It has been a busy time. The
children have all settled into their new school.
Historical Society
I would just like to say that the assistance The autumn meeting of the RAHS will be a presentation on
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

that you have given has been an incredible

lifeline; I don’t know what I would have done The Guns at Balaclava
without your help and I would like to say a big By Brigadier J C Groom CBE
thank you from the children and I.
1100 hours, Wednesday 18 April, Newcome Hall, Larkhill
The lecture is open to all ranks of the Royal Artillery at no charge.
RHQ RA, Artillery
RAHS Members should reserve places at the lecture and society lunch with the secretary
House, Artillery Centre, by Wednesday, 4 April, sending names of member and guests, car details and £15 per head
Royal Artillery Barracks, lunch cheques payable to the RA Historical Society. The AGM follows lunch.
Larkhill, Salisbury, If interested in joining the RAHS battlefield tour to Monte Cassino in September 2012,
Wiltshire SP4 8QT please contact the Secretary, Lt Col R S Clayton: richard.clayton@twinpines.fsnet.co.uk
Firm bookings are required by Monday, 20 February.
 regimental news 5

Spring Dinner
Regimental events
January
7 Larkhill Racing Club Point to Point, Larkhill
14 Cole’s Cop Day–14 Bty ,16 Regt RA

T he Spring Dinner 2012 will be held in the RA Mess Larkhill on Friday, 23 March 16 Corunna Day –17 Bty, 26 Regt RA
at 7 for 7.30pm. The dinner will take the form of a ladies guest night and is open to 17 Abu Klea Day – 176 Bty, 39 Regt RA
officers of the Royal Regiment, serving and retired, and their guests. The Master Gunner 18 Bhurtpore Day – 57 Bty, 32 Regt RA
St James’s Park will preside and a number of guests distinguished in all walks of life will 20 Subalterns’ Dining in Night, Larkhill
be invited as regimental guests. 21 RA Hunt Point to Point, Larkhill
The cost will be £40 per head which includes pre-dinner drinks and all wines served
during the meal. Dress will be Mess Dress – ceremonial evening (soft shirt) for serving February
officers and dinner jacket (black tie) – decorations for retired officers/civilians. 4 Combined Services Point to Point,
To apply for a place at the dinner please complete and return the application form Larkhill
below together with a cheque made payable to the Royal Artillery Institution for £40 for 6 Royal Salute – Anniversary of Accession of
each person attending. HM The Queen, Hyde Park
Further information may be obtained from the Regimental Secretary, Col NG 17 RA Steeplechase Meeting, Sandown Park
Quarrelle on 01980 845528 or email: ArtyCen-RHQRA-RegtSec@mod.uk , or his PA, 19 Martinique Day – 13 Bty ,19 Regt RA
Jane Campbell on 01980-845778 or email: ArtyCen-RHQRA-RegtSecPA@mod.uk 24 Battle Axe day – 74 Bty, 39 Regt RA


Spring Dinner 2012, Friday, 23 March March

3 Meiktila Day –148 Bty, 29 Cdo RA
13 Master Gunner’s Committee 121st
Rank and Name .................................................................................................................
Meeting, London
17 St Patrick’s Day – 24 Bty, 14 Regt RA
Address.............................................................................................................................. 23 Spring Dinner, Larkhill
24 Hyderabad Day – N Bty, 3 RHA
........................................................................................................................................... 27 Keren Day – 1 Bty ,14 Regt RA
31 Sanna’s Post Day – Q Bty, 5 Regt RA
...........................................................................................................................................

Telephone No................................. Email..........................................................................

April
13 Sovereign’s Parade, RMAS
19 Ahmed Khel Day – F Bty, 7 RHA
Wish to apply for............................ tickets for the Spring Dinner on Friday, 23 March
21 Royal Salute Birthday of HM The Queen,
Hyde Park
I enclose a remittance in favour of the Royal Artillery Institution to the value of £.........
29 Gunner Sunday, Royal Hospital Chelsea
I have the following dietary requirements......................................................................... Information supplied to The Gunner
is subject to change. Please check
When completed, please return the form and remittance to: with the individual organisers
Jane Campbell, PA to the Regimental Secretary, Regimental Headquarters Royal Artillery, concerned that the information is
Artillery House, Royal Artillery Barracks, Larkhill, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 8QT still current, or contact SO2 Pol on
01980 845830

The Harrison Award for Sporting

Excellence
F rom 1 January 2012, the RA Sports Board has decided to recognise Countries’ International 120 yards hurdles in 1920. After selection
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

sporting excellence with the presentation of the Harrison Award for the Olympics, which he was subsequently unable to accept for
for all sportsmen and women, both Regular and Territorial who medical reasons, he represented Great Britain in the 120 yards hurdles
represent their country at sport in open competitions. in the 1924 Olympics and also the British Empire against the USA.
The award is in memory of the late Maj Gen EGWW Harrison He was also a keen hunting man, always preferring to be at the
CB CBE MC DL JP (1893-1987). Gen Harrison was an outstanding front of the field. In his time he was Master of the RA Harriers, the
Gunner. Commissioned in 1913, he had a distinguished military career Staff College Drag, the Lahore Hounds, the South Oxfordshire and
fighting in both world wars where his courage was recognised by the the North Cornwall Hounds. At big game shooting he had few rivals.
award of the Military Cross and being Mentioned in Despatches five On giving up hunting he was able to devote more time to shooting and
times. He rose to the rank of major general and the value of his service fishing, principally salmon fishing. On retirement, he took up painting
was recognized by the award of a CB and CBE. He was ADC to His in oils and on moving to Cornwall created from scratch one of the best
Majesty King George VI. gardens in England winning prizes from the RHA for his collection of
After the First World War he proved himself to be one of the rhododendrons and camellias.
Army’s most outstanding athletes, playing rugby for the Mother RA Sports Secretaries are to forward nominations to SO2 Regt Pol,
Country XV in 1919 and the Army in 1920. He also won the Home Lt Col (Retd) Andy Astbury at HQ DRA.
6 regimental news

Royal Artillery honours and awards

Maj John Tulloch and CDS Mrs Sara Hunter and CDS

Capt Adam Jacobs with DRA WO2 J Welfare with DRA

D uring the DRA’s Conference on

Wednesday, 7 December, the Chief of
the Defence Staff, Gen Sir David Richards
transformation of the learning
culture across the Royal Artillery
over the last decade has been
and the Director Royal Artillery, Brig Nick remarkable and it is almost entirely
Eeles, presented the annual Royal Artillery due to her passion for education.
honours and awards. The Napier Medal for the most
The Royal Artillery Medal for outstanding noteworthy service to the regiment
service to the regiment was awarded to Maj by a junior officer was awarded
John Tulloch. Commissioned into the Royal to Capt Alice Wheeler. Capt
New Zealand Artillery before serving in Wheeler’s supremely noteworthy
Vietnam in 1969 he transferred into the service, unequalled for an officer
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

Royal Artillery in 1973. Through his sheer of her age and experience, is
determination and hard work Maj Tulloch recognised by this award.
has ensured that those members of the Royal The Lefroy Gold Medal was
Artillery who died during the Sandakan awarded to Capt Adam Jacobs for
Death Marches in Sabah have been honoured his innovation and exceptional CO King’s Troop RHA, Maj Mark Edwards, and DRA
appropriately. The success of Ex SABAH leadership during an operational tour. generous, helpful and utterly tireless soldier.
SALUTE and its contribution to the Royal His personal striving and hard work have His enthusiastic approach to both supporting
Regiment’s heritage has been immense. undoubtedly saved lives and continued to the regiment and his local community is
The Royal Artillery Medal was also progress the mission in Afghanistan. almost without parallel.
awarded to Mrs Sara Hunter for her The Goschen Medal was awarded to The Cornwall Cup, awarded to the
inspirational leadership and selfless WO2 J Welfare who has completed over 32 regiment that raises the most money during
commitment to adult learning through the years of TA service with the Royal Artillery. the course of the year for the Royal Artillery
establishment and development of the RA WO2 Welfare is an outstanding example Charitable Fund was awarded to The King’s
Centre for Personal Development. The of a totally committed, completely loyal, Troop RHA.
 in action 7

Watching out with the

Black Watch
I deployed to Afghanistan in September as call sign Witchcraft 44B, part of a
fire support team attached to A Coy of the Black Watch. This was my first tour
of Afghanistan and I was therefore a little apprehensive and did not know quite
what to expect. I had heard so many stories during the training cycle, instructors
spinning ‘dits’ that had described both kinetic and non-kinetic environments;
truthfully I was not really sure what it was going to be like.
On arrival at Patrol Base KALANG I was met on the helicopter landing site
and taken to meet our fire support team commander, WO2 (BSM) Greenhalgh,
who gave me a briefing covering how the previous fire support team had
conducted their business and then issued with the kit and equipment I would
be using for the duration of the tour; radios, compass, GPS and numerous other
items required for observation. I was then briefed on my area of responsibility
by the intelligence cell and in-briefed by the company sergeant major. It was
quite a welcome and things had suddenly become very real. The training we had
conducted was behind us and we were now in theatre and getting on with the job.
Within hours I was conducting my first patrol as a fire support individual.
I deployed onto the ground conducting a reassure patrol of the local area
concentrating on known compounds of interest. We tried to identify known
and likely firing points, while conducting the skills and drills we had learned
throughout our mission specific training package.
The first few days patrolling were quite daunting, constantly looking for
vulnerable points and vulnerable areas, concentrating on where we were putting
our feet and looking for ground signs that may indicate the presence of an IED
that may have evaded the detection of the point men. We encountered the local
population on numerous occasions and found them to be cautious but receptive. Above: LBdr Andrews. Below: WO2 (BSM) Mark Greenhalgh
As the days continued we started to recognise local people and gained knowledge
on the pattern of life around our patrol base.
Sparsely populated
We conducted our first company level operation in October; a partnered
surge operation with Afghan troops into the east of our area of operations.
This was an area where Op HERRICK 14 soldiers rarely ventured as it was
sparsely populated. We inserted by Chinook in the early hours of the morning
and conducted ‘soft knocks’ on a series of compounds identified by intelligence
as possible Taliban bed-down locations. The Afghan Army led the advance
interacting with the locals and forming the lead element of the company. A
Coy call signs formed screens to the north and south with the fire support team
commander and the company’s tactical headquarters following close to the
Afghan multiple.
We had air support in the form of two Apache AHs, each providing overt,
armed over-watch throughout in order to deter insurgents from attacking. I was
part of the southern screen; we manoeuvred in support of the main effort within
the group of target compounds. I was responsible for identifying possible firing
points and in-depth fall back positions that the local insurgents may use. I silently
marked possible targets for engagement should the need arise. We had numerous
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

fire systems available that could be called upon if necessary. On completion of

the search we continued on our patrol south-west towards a position where we
intended to lie up before our extraction. As darkness fell, the thump, thump,
thump of the Chinooks’ rotor blades told us it was once again time to move onto
the helicopter landing site. A successful operation complete, we lifted back to
our patrol base and straight into a hot debrief by the intelligence cell.
The days following became somewhat more routine; manning sangars,
routine patrols and maintaining general administration of the command post. We
have slowly settled into what has become our home for the next month before I
move elsewhere. It has been an interesting start to the tour and I look forward to
the challenges that no doubt lie ahead.

by LBdr Mathew Andrews

8 up front

T owards the end of September 2011, 159 (Colenso) Bty, 26

Regt RA deployed to Afghanistan on HERRICK 15 in support
of the Queen’s Royal Hussars battle group as Combined Force
Lashkar Gah. The battery took over from C Bty, 3 RHA who had
spent Op HERRICK 14 supporting 4 Bn The Royal Regiment of
Scotland. The gun troop also took over from C Bty’s gun troop
in Patrol Base SHAZAD in the Nad-e Ali area, from where they
support 3 Combined Forces in the central Helmand river valley.
A few members of the battery are also deployed in support of
the Police Mentoring and Advisory Group, while the remainder
are supporting the regiment forward from the rear operations
group. Some members of the battery have served in Helmand
Province before, mostly in support of 29 Cdo Regt RA during
Op HERRICK 9, but for many of the younger soldiers this is their
first operational tour.
The conditions for most of us are surprisingly comfortable.
The majority of locations, including the gun troop, have been
‘winterised’. Given some of the thunderstorms we have
experienced, this is a blessing as the full force of the winter
weather is fast approaching. The gun troop enjoy good tented accommodation
complete with cosy ‘back yards’ and their very own pets in the form of mice
and hornets, seemingly fed on steroids. Sharing the patrol base with A Coy
1 PWRR, the gun troop has involved itself with assisting the company as
much as it can: from base security to the routine of life necessary to sustain
soldiers on operations, they have forged a strong working relationship. The
female officers and soldiers have helped the ‘hearts and minds’ effort in
assisting the company to hand out Eid-Ul Adha festival presents to girls at
the local school and the CPO, Lt Dan ‘The Giraffe’ Bull, has even gallantly
donned a protective suit to be chased by the base attack dog. The Giraffe
lost. Maintaining a strict routine, they are keeping their skills honed with
continual gunnery and theatre-specific training, plenty of physical exercise
(including Op MASSIVE) and soldiers have continued to develop themselves
with education delivered by the AGC (ETS). The gun troop got their first
taste of action supporting Capt Steve ‘Mandella’ Booth’s fire support team
and Sgt ‘Moondog’ Moon, the BC’s ack, who were assisting the Afghan
National Police to secure the Lashkar Gah district centre from attack
during the Eid-Ul Adha festival. The provision of illumination to the
Top: Sgt Moon and LBdr Thompson preping for a patrol east of the centre had a tangible effect on deterring the insurgent
Above: Capt Booth and his FST with the regimental mascot from attempting mortar or suicide attacks during
Below: The 159 Bty Gun arriving at PB SHAZAD
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

Col
 up front 9

darkness.
Following the handover of security primacy in Lashkar Gah to the Afghan
authorities in July 2011, the FSTs have been increasingly working alongside
the Afghan Uniformed Police (AUP) on joint operations. The reality of working
in an area of operations (AO) where the indigenous security
forces have the lead is that we are invited to fight alongside
the AUP when they require our assistance. The AUP are
increasingly effective, but they are still very keen to
utilise those ISAF assets that they like but do not have,
such as integrated ground and air joint fires assets.
The concept of fighting alongside each other is a very
strong one in Afghan psyche; one focused on honour
and bravery. During recent clearance operations, FST
elements have been forward providing the AUP with
intimate support, often ahead of their normally supported
companies who, in this transitioned era, sit a tactical
bound behind the AUP. This seems to be the shape of
things to come. It is also a measure of the progress
in Lashkar Gah that the AUP is actively dealing with
security threats as they arise without calling ISAF
for assistance. As Gunners we enjoy firing our guns in
support of operations, though they are being used less
frequently for ’routine’ security tasks. Instead, they are
being increasingly focused on deliberate operations in
safe havens and contested areas on the fringes
of our AO. Over the course of this winter tour,
we hope to pull away from supporting the
Afghans a little more so
that they become less
dependent upon us for
the support we have
so far provided. This
is the real measure
of progress for us as
Gunners, and for the wider
ISAF effort, and signposts the way
to 2014. We remain, though,
poised to respond
to those words
Gunners love to
hear: “Fire Mission!”

THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

lenso on call
10 in action

Blowing hot and cold

on Hohne Ranges
H ohne ranges at the end of October was
the chilly setting for a five-day military
skills training exercise for M (HQ) Bty and
thought we were ‘not sparking’ as we left our
transport. His little warm up certainly helped
our motivation and once we had found out
After a furious amount of gunfire, and two red
hot GPMG barrels, our ambush was deemed
to be a success as the enemy was destroyed
N Bty (The Eagle Troop), both of 3 RHA. the correct course of action to be taken on and our mission was accomplished. It was
The aim of the exercise was to focus on field the shout of ‘Grenade!’ everybody started then time for some well-needed rest in our
craft, basic life support, map reading, section sparking, whether a bit sweaty or not. third harbour area.
and platoon level attacks and command and Thursday’s reveille was called by
leadership. In earnest the enemy attacking our position, where
The week started with ‘a bit of a rifting’ Lessons began in earnest with sentry we stood-to and fought them off before
from our PT instructor, LBdr Culkin, who duties. It didn’t take long for the cold to set continuing with our normal morning routine
in across the board and out came the warm of a cold shave and new cam cream. One
kit, already. Cpl Smith and Cpl Brown from of the exercise’s main aims was chemical,
2 Mercian reminded us on how to occupy a biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN)
harbour area and section battle drills. Later training, entailing fitting new respirators,
we set off to our first harbour area where we decontamination, eating and drinking in a
occupied our first location. CBRN environment and a test of our abilities
The following day reveille was at 0530 to evacuate a casualty while fully kitted-up in
hours, which was a long time before the sun CBRN suits and respirators.
made its first appearance. Then it was time We then occupied our final harbour from
for how to patrol correctly, section level which we were to launch our final attack,
attacks and camouflage and concealment. As preceded by recce patrols, fighting patrols
the day continued the sun began to shine and and clearance patrols. By 0830 hours on the
morale throughout the troops was high, only final morning the attack was well underway,
to plummet again as nightfall approached and and turned out to be successful with no
we moved into another harbour with more casualties. After a short but well-deserved
‘stagging on’. rest we started the BC’s challenge, which
After another night under the stars, the entailed a six kilometre run carrying weapons,
bleary-eyed platoon packed up and headed webbing, stretchers, ammunition boxes and
for a day filled with more lessons, battlefield jerry cans across sandy and unstable roads
casualty drills, casualty evacuations, actions on Hohne ranges, but with the final call of
on contact and for ambushes. Some medics ‘endex’ ahead, an almighty push was made
from 2 Regt RAMC came out to train and by everybody to complete the challenge.
test us all on basic life support and how
Very high quality
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

well we reacted to
taking a casualty Altogether it was good to see a very high
during a patrol. quality of soldiering by everybody who took
Once sweaty part in the exercise. Although at times it was
brows had been cold, wet and tiring, everybody enjoyed it
dried and new and definitely will have taken a lot away to
cam cream had aid them in future deployments and tours of
been applied duty all around the world.
it was time A huge thank you to everybody who took
for our ‘bread part in the exercise and most importantly, to
and butter’… the preparation and deliverance of the whole
ambushes. week.
by Gnr North and Gnr Renshaw
 up front 11

Find,
fix,
finish
I t was 1600 hours on a wet Sunday
afternoon in Marne Barracks, Catterick.
Two patrols were formed-up, kit packed
itching to deploy. A quick shakeout followed
rehearsals, patrols nailing down contact drills,
ambush drills and man down procedure.
with grab bags under bergen lids; we were Before we knew it, we were stacked up
ready to deploy. The anticipation had been in the vehicles ready to deploy. At 2200
building all weekend, little was known of our hours we approached the drop off locations,
impending tasks and it would stay this way both call signs debussed and, Ex SPHINX
until we were secure in the isolation area at RESURGENCE was fully underway. The
Albemarle Barracks in Newcastle. aim of the exercise was to practice the core
A short journey took us to a forward skills required to complete our primary role
operating base at the old airstrip at Albemarle. of static covert surveillance. the airstrip
As soon as we arrived the patrol 2ICs, LBdrs and had written ambush
Redfern and Loughlin, began to prepare the Exploit orders ready for the strike the following
mission-critical kit. Concurrently, the patrol Both patrols began their infiltration night.
commanders, Bdrs Wiley and Manard, were carrying 130lb per man, made up of optics, Under the cover of darkness and in
given a detailed set of orders by the BC. Our cameras, TI sights, night vision equipment complete silence the troop approached the
SOPs immediately kicked in and the two and radios. Our mission was to relay ambush site. The last 10 days had all been
patrols spent the next 24 hours preparing kit, intelligence back to the operating base by building up to this point, the horrendous
planning and working through the extensive day and night in all weathers. Initially, our weather conditions, the sub-surface OPs,
mission folders, with a scenario based on the task was to gain ‘eyes on’ our respective hours of reporting and miles of patrolling; all
then-current conflict in Libya. As a patrol named areas of interest to find, fix, finish and for this chance to kill or capture Bravo One.
commander the workload is intense, going eventually exploit, the possible movements The ambush was set by 0001 hours and
through the detailed intelligence reports and of the commander of a notional 32 Libyan was sprung at 0330 hours, killing Bravo
producing a comprehensive set of orders, all Bde (known as Bravo One) and his forces. One and the members of his close protection
while in the confines of isolation. Remaining undetected for the next five team. All call signs rapidly extracted, moving
After presenting an extensive set of orders days, both patrols successfully inserted the five miles to a pick up point, safe in
call signs L21 and L22 were ready and covert sub-surface OPs in order to observe. the knowledge that the mission had been
All information including enemy strengths, successfully executed. Bravo One had been
weapons, fortifications, and patrol timings found, fixed and finished.
were logged and reported. The battery Back in Stone Lines, all three patrols
mission managers then fused this information headed straight into isolation where they
in order to build the target pack which would
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

compiled all the intelligence gathered during

lead to a subsequent strike on the objective. the task and produced a detailed patrol report
Once the task was complete, the order which was presented to the BC within 12
came to extract. Both call signs linked up hours of coming off the ground.
before moving south to RAF Spadeadam. The 4/73 (Sphinx) Bty RA STA Patrols
Further taskings produced new intelligence, Course is run twice yearly and accepts
closing the net still further on Bravo One. The candidates from all arms and services. If
last thread of intelligence came in indicating you are interested in joining 4/73 Bty, or
that he was moving in convoy to a secret would like more information, please contact
airstrip a few miles north of our location later the recruiting officer on 94731 5636 or
that night. L21 established a troop RV and 5943. Alternatively, you can look up DIN-
guided in L22 and a third call sign L23. L23 2010DIN07-086 on the intranet.
comprised of a patrol on the final test exercise
of the STA Patrols Course. They had recced by Bdr Ashley Manard
12 up front

Corunna tames the

Black Alligator
I n September I found myself with other
members of the 3/29 (Corunna) Bty, 4
Regt RA tactical group, deploying with
in Afghanistan and very quickly we were
conducting joint fires together again.
deliberate attack. Each one covered a period
of 24 to 36 hours and they all involved the co-
ordination of live (or blank) firing, mortars
40 Cdo RM to the United States Marine Biting down and battle simulators. It quickly became
Corps training area in the Mojave Desert, During the exercise we also had a rare very intense and proved to be a demanding
California. We went to undertake a three- opportunity to get onto the 29 Palms training training period. Inevitably, the ‘Bootnecks’
week exercise called BLACK ALLIGATOR. area to fire the US 155mm howitzer, known do everything at the double.
This was a unique opportunity to take part as the M777. The BC was pulling the firing Overall the exercise allowed us to practice
in a challenging exercise in a demanding cord, Capt Beebe was laying, Gnr Mason was our own drills and skills and it provided a
environment. Having also deployed with ramming and Gnr Tidy ended up biting down great opportunity for us, the mortars and
40 Cdo RM last year on Op HERRICK 12, on the cartridge of the primer, which we were the battle group close combat companies to
the exercise had the additional benefit of told is USMC artillery tradition. A couple of practice and work together before we start
allowing me to see some old friends and re- the OP acks were also lucky enough to go to out once again on mission specific training
acquaint myself with some pleasant ‘pongo’ the OP and conduct immediate neutralization next year.
banter. and smoke missions. It was great to see Before flying home we were granted a
Throughout the course of the exercise how the Americans conduct their gunnery two-day stand-down (shore leave!) in Las
the tactical group achieved a number of and compare it to our own procedures; the Vegas. I can personally guarantee that Las
different training objectives. In the first week difference in voice procedure certainly tested Vegas is more than large enough to absorb
we made full use of the USMC Supporting the ‘special relationship’. 700 Royal Marines and attached soldiers.
Arms Virtual Trainer. This is a 260-degree In the second half of the exercise the Obviously what goes in Vegas stays in Vegas
screen, wrap-around Invertron-type trainer tactical group integrated with each of the but it was probably the best R and R I have
that certainly provides a step up in close combat companies while we cycled ever experienced.
technology and capability on what we through a number of live and dry serials. Thanks go to all ranks of 40
are used to. This first week was an It all started off with a night ambush Cdo RM who made us feel very
excellent opportunity to get myself followed by an advance to contact, welcome throughout the whole
and the whole fire support team back and finished with a company exercise and a special thank you
to thinking about our traditional for arranging
gunnery, working again by Lt Peter Guo the stand
with the marine down.
mortar fire
controllers. We
quickly carried
on where we
left off
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012
 up front 13

14 strike silver in
H
Wales
aving trained really hard, a carefully selected team of eight soldiers from 14 Regt RA
embarked on this year’s Cambrian Patrol Competition – which turned out to be one of
the toughest 48 hours most of the team members have endured in their careers. The patrol
consisted of 2Lt Fry as patrol commander, myself as 2I/C, Bdr Adjei as patrol medic, Bdr
Mostert as patrol signaller, LBdr Newsham as lead scout, Gnrs Eccleston and Smee as patrol
riflemen and Gnr Frost as the gunner on the Light Support Weapon.
The competition started at 0715 hours with a team kit inspection while the commander
reported to receive his orders. From here on in we were to carry our full kit everywhere,
with no contact with the outside world, less for an emergency satellite phone issued at the
beginning of the patrol; a bit of kit many other teams would later come to use. Orders issued
with the help of a model built by the team, we set out to conduct a close target recce patrol –
at a location eight miles away over the mountains of the Elan Valley in Wales.

A cliff edge
The task turned out to have an element of danger as the weather quickly turned very
nasty with visibility down to about 10 feet, resulting in the boss falling 15 feet down a cliff
edge (happily without major injury). On completion of this task we made our way to an
rendezvous where we were issued with a new set of orders, this time to meet with an agent
at yet another RV and gather intelligence. This was pretty much the order of the day for the
whole of the second day, with each RV being a stand or scenario.
One of the stands was to conduct a full tactical river crossing of a typically ice-cold Welsh
mountain river with a span of about 50 yards. This helped test our sense of humour to the
limit, being particularly run-down, cold, wet, tired and hungry, and that was before the river
crossing! Another stand was a helicopter crash site where the experience, efficiency and
quick response of the team, in particular our medic, Bdr Adjei, ensured the situation was
dealt with in a professional and timely manner. This was a great morale boost for the team
and spurred us on for the final test.
The exercise culminated in an attack followed by the patrol commander being taken out
and the rest of his team having to carry him to the safety of a friendly forces base that was
a mile away, directly uphill. Having completed the casualty evacuation we were taken to a
room, given another kit inspection and then straight into a patrol debrief in what has to be the
warmest room I’ve ever been in. We had to fight hard to stay awake and give accurate and
timely intelligence gleaned from the patrol. It was only at this point that we were told; “Well
done, you have just completed Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL 2011.” The relief on hearing these
words was overwhelming.
An awards ceremony was held in Sennybridge the next day. Here we learnt that only six
of the 14 teams in our cohort had made it to the end and that this year’s route was a back-
breaking 30 miles in total. We were awarded a silver medal for our performance. The relief
and lift in morale felt by all members at this moment was immense; a fantastic achievement
after the gruelling physical and mental challenge which lay behind us.
by Bdr Kyle Childerstone
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012
14 up front

16 Regt RA
round up
N o less than four lengthy articles from 16 Regt RA have been
received this month. With no room to publish them all in their
entirety here, with apologies to the individual authors, is a resume of
The next day was at Cirkewwa Point where
depths of 30 metres were reached in a dive
on a P29 patrol boat, a relatively new wreck
with some interesting features. The pace did
what’s been going on in the Rutland-based regiment in recent months. not let up and after an air replenishment it
was back in the water for a night dive, rather
Dive, dive, dive This was followed by a ferry trip to a novel situation for those that were newly
the island of Gozo to visit two of the qualified.
First, 2Lt Fran Sykes wrote about a diving Mediterranean’s most celebrated dive sites. All participants enjoyed the experience
expedition to Malta undertaken by a team of The first was an 18-metre tunnel that emerged immensely and several have since joined a
Gunners and their attached REME personnel at a drop off where buoyancy control was local diving club with the intention of braving
and airmen from the RAF that make up the well and truly tested. Gnr Chris Longley the cold temperatures around the UK. A few
Joint Air Picture to the Land Environment found himself rapidly sinking and had to be keen individuals are already seeking the next
unit co-located with the regiment. It was truly retrieved by Bdr Rich Wragg, himself simply qualification and all have asked when the next
a joint expedition designed to either gain, or using the excuse to log a greater depth. expedition is.
improve on, various diving qualifications. The second, the Blue Hole, a jaw-dropping
In six action-packed days with two or 16-metre vertical descent before swimming JNCO Leadership Course
three dives each day the divers experienced through the Azure Window and emerging on Next up LBdrs Bryant, Holland, Ramsell,
reef, wall, cavern, wreck and even night to a vertigo inducing 50-metre drop off, was Riley and Spicer were tasked to write an article
dives. After learning, or revising, the basics tricky to access with divers scrambling over on their recently concluded leadership course.
the expedition proper started with a wreck the rocks and trying not to drop their heavy As well as JNCOs from 16 Regt RA the course
dive to HMS Maori at St Elmo’s Bay at a kit, but the spectacular dive certainly made received students from 7 Para RHA, 26 Regt
depth of 14 metres. the effort worthwhile. RA and The King’s Troop RHA.
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012
 up front 15

box head
Above: The diving expedition. Right: Sky diving
After the usual fitness assessments, Almost every member of the battery,
inspections and PT, the first week was a busy starting with LBdr Ramsden himself, and
mix of lessons and briefings, and preparations finishing with the BSM, swam a mile in
for the two-week field training exercise that relays, each mile being equivalent to 48
was to follow. lengths of the local swimming pool.
The first week at Sennybridge consisted of Given fantastic support throughout the
a live firing package. After zeroing weapons event LBdr Ramsden was able to say that
the training continued through the week with there were some very fast miles – the best
pairs, fire teams and finished with a section being an incredible 28 minutes by Gnr
attack on the Friday. That same Friday also Fountain.
meant that we were all going to be wet with A total of 1,296 lengths was completed
each section competing on the assault course in a combined time of just 19 hours and 37
against the clock. minutes, raising £1,500 shared by the RA
With the range package completed the Charitable Fund and H4H. A big well done to
course attempted and completed the SAS everybody concerned.
combat fitness test, something we did
as a course, though the lads from 7 Para
Sports parachuting
RHA would have been happier to run it all Lastly, Bdr Dickinson wrote about Ex
the way. The exercise phase started with INVICTA DROPOUT, a week-long sports
various patrols and activities led by different parachuting exercise conducted at Netheravon
section commanders selected from those Airfield, on Salisbuy Plain. Coached by LBdr
on the course. This involved receiving and Louie Saunders of the RA’s Black Knights
delivering orders and leading their sections Parachute Display team, the students spent
on patrols over different types of terrain. several days on the ground learning about
The culmination of the exercise phase was their equipment, landing drills, exit drills,
the final attack; this was conducted on the aircraft drills and emergency procedures.
night of Friday, 22 July and was a complete They also learnt about canopy control and
success. normal and abnormal landings.
The final week consisted of finishing After several frustrating days when
the mandatory lessons and briefings and the wind speed was too high for novice
preparations for the passing out parade. But parachutists the weather eventually relented
before that the course took part in a platoon and the boys got their first jumps in. Bdr
attack in front of invited friends and families. Dickinson wrote that up at 3,500 feet, looking
Everybody then enjoyed a drink or two, the around at the other faces in the plane, you
usual curry lunch and some much deserved could tell that everybody was outside their
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

summer leave. comfort zone.

“One by one,” he wrote, “as we got into
Charity swim in the Falklands position in the door of the plane with the cold
Next LBdr J M Ramsden wrote to tell wind rushing past us and the ground a long
us about a charity swim that he was asked way below us, we realised that we were about
to organise for 20 Bty RA, currently the to get that daunting word from the instructor
Resident Rapier Bty in the Falkland Islands. ‘GO’! The feeling of the first jump was
Urged on by his BC and BSM to come up incredible and as soon as we landed, we were
with a novel fund-raising idea he hit on the ready to go again.”
notion of swimming the equivalent distance 16 Regt RA would like to thank the RA
as going round the perimeter of Rutland Centre for Personal Development for their
Water, the massive man-made lake near the help and financial support given to the
battery’s North Luffenham base. At 27 miles divers in Malta and the sports parachutist at
this would be a mammoth effort… Netheravon.
16 up front

A
It’s cold on th
s a young second lieutenant two weeks
fresh out of Sandhurst, the Falkland
Islands presented the ideal opportunity to both
experience life in the field with the Royal Artillery
and put my own skills into practice.
100 Regt RA (V) deployed on Exercise Sea

the bottom of th
Trout in mid-October in high spirits, despite
reports of snow the previous week and an
ever-fluctuating movements plan that stretched
the adjutant’s patience to its limit. Our main
effort was twofold: to prove the Light Guns,
held as part of the Special Purpose Operational
Stores at Mount Pleasant Complex but more firing one morning (as the safety staff worked finished consolidation orders, on how to improve
importantly to prevent the takeover of the islands out where rounds might land in 70mph gusting fire discipline while trying to decipher who
by hostile forces from the fictitious neighbouring winds). The OPs, under the watchful eye of Maj had the best case of ‘tent-eye’ was somewhat
Redland. Lead elements of the enemy were Tony Ball, BC 266 Bty, endured some gruelling interesting. As the week progressed further
infiltrating across the islands and their speed weather and terrain (both character building and stories of humour and delight began to seep
and manoeuvrability meant it was likely they soul searching) in their efforts to engage targets around the gun position and none made the
would be able to get past the defensive positions in valleys, on hilltops and over sloping rock falls. gun bunnies happier than when they discovered
established by the deployed infantry battalion and They were privileged to spend several windy that SSgt ‘Gurt’ Wilson, BQMS 266 Bty RA (V)
threaten to take over the islands, which meant nights on Mount Simon, the largest peak on Onion had japped the OPs and given them nothing but
that upon our arrival there was no rest for the Range, which saw several ponchos disappear, vegetarian rations to eat while sitting cold and
wicked. The Training Major, Maj Paul Snodgrass, followed in quick succession by two teddies lonely atop Mount Simon as they stared down
had us straight out into the field for the next five and one sense of humour! Tactical support was upon the glowing hot crew shelters on the gun
days in order to halt the advance of Redland’s provided by members of E Bty, 1 RHA, with position at night, eating a selection of menus A,
occupying forces, deploying the regiment to some gun group support from 29 Cdo Regt RA, B, C and D.
parts of East Falkland that hadn’t been visited by both showing how the Regular/TA regimental
exercising troops for a good number of years. affiliations are alive and well in all respects. The
High spirits
With BCRs arriving mid-way through (aka live firing was made all the more successful by The high regimental spirit was due in part
Main Body 2) all members of the regiment some unexpected but rather temperate weather to the professionalism and teaching of officers,
worked hard to hone their skills, diligently accompanied by buckets of morale, SNCOs and JNCOs, although a more probable
monitored by the permanent staff. By the end often supplied by the Padre, Clive reason was to avoid any further beer fines being
of the five days, all guns had been successfully Larrett, who undoubtedly had a part meticulously noted by the ever watchful LBdr
‘proved’ and both gun and tactical groups were to play in both and provided a ‘Das’ Das, except when he was too busy being
working seamlessly, despite not having known memorable field service presented with a birthday cake (aka a muffin
each other at the start of the week. The command on the morning of the last with a burning twig stuck in the top of it) from the
post, headed up by Lt Sam Crisp, was put day of live firing. commanding officer.
through its paces with a variety of non-standard The enthusiasm across Having worked hard it was then time to
fire missions and performed admirably, despite the regiment was something experience more of the islands but at a
adverse wind conditions delaying to behold. Listening to an slightly more leisurely pace. Everyone
insistent gun number one at conducted at least one battlefield tour,
0330 hours, having just which included Goose Green, Mounts
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012
 up front 17

he top of 101 reasons

he world to celebrate
Tumbledown, and Fitzroy. It was of particular
interest to the gun group and, in particular B Sub,
to hear first hand about the conflict from Bdr
McBride, a gun layer with 7 (Sphinx) Cdo Bty RA
during the conflict, and now deployed with B Sub
266 Bty RA (V) as … a gun layer!
The battlefield tours were followed by visits
to Port Stanley, Gypsy Cove and, of course, the
inevitable search for penguins at Bertha’s Beach,
a walk that will be remembered for WO2 ‘Bushey’
Bushnell’s now legendary disappearing trick (the
video is on its way to You’ve Been Framed as we
speak)!
Members of the battery at the Rauray dinner
The exercise was concluded by a helicopter
trip to Sea Lion Island in brilliant sunshine where
some of the younger contingent could walk in
the company of elephant seals, sea lions, (more!)
2 04 Bty, 101 Regt RA (V), based in Newcastle upon Tyne, have had a very busy six
months on the operational, training and social fronts.
It began in February when Maj Tim Pennett departed to take over the 2IC’s desk and
penguins and a host of birdlife. The spectacular handed the BC’s chair to Maj Bill Murray, who was welcomed ‘home’ with delight by
surroundings provided a fitting ending to an all ranks having previously served for many years in the battery, notably as BSM and
excellent exercise in which some gained a then BK. He was BSM when Maj Stuart Eaton arrived as PSAO so it was with great
qualification, many took some great memories sadness for both that Maj Eaton retired only days after his great friend’s arrival.
away with them and everyone benefitted from February and March were busy months on training areas with both regimental and
the experience. sub-unit exercises, most notably Ex MAGPIE STORM, an STA deployment to the
Otterburn Training Area in support of the regiment’s MLRS firing. Thus the battery
Talent brought style, sense and meaning to the venture. Later we discovered that, yet again,
Congratulations must be extended to Fraser 204 Bty had topped the regiment’s bounty qualification league with some 42 personnel
Gillies, who was promoted to captain just in having gained their annual training bounty.
time for the regimental smoker, to all those Commitments to Op HERRICK have continued apace during the period. SSgt
who completed their levels one or two Strike Davy Barrass and Gnr Dan Holbrough returned from their tour with Z Bty RA in good
Course, and finally to Gnr Jake Weston whose spirits with Gnr Paul Telford then already involved in pre-deployment training with
comic impressions of certain personalities in the 53 (Louisburg) Bty RA. Currently, LBdr Laura Moore is similarly occupied with K
regiment must make him a dead cert for next (Hondegem) Bty RA. Others, pre-warned, wait in the wings for their calls to action in
year’s Britain’s Got Talent. support of 5 Regt RA, our paired regular regiment.
We remembered the actions of our forebears on 1 July 1944 at the annual Rauray
2Lt Ruari Smith Cooper
Dinner in July, an occasion which featured readings of many eye-witness accounts of
the battle. The evening also served as a dining out for Maj Stuart Eaton (amazingly his
fifth within the regiment) and for our very popular and highly respected SPSI – WO2
Steve McCord who leaves on discharge after a most successful army career. Rarely has
one met such an energetic, committed and professional warrant officer. The mood at the
dinner was bullish due to the news that a former BC of 204 Bty, Maj Philip Haigh, had,
just days earlier, been selected as the next CO of 101 Regt RA (V). Excellent news and
a fitting tribute to him and the professionalism of the battery.
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

Our summer activity was aptly rounded off with a families’ day held at the battery’s
TA centre much of which, as ever and quite obviously and appropriately, was organised
by, set up by, run by and cleared up by members of 204 Bty, with much assistance from
their REME colleagues. It was sponsored by
Newcastle upon Tyne’s own (now national)
baker – Greggs – to whom the regiment is
most grateful. It was attended by almost
400 families, friends and Greggs’s staff and
was a most enjoyable day, going some way
to illustrate the family ethos and to show
its gratitude for the support given by the
regiment’s wider family. Steve and Marie McCord
18 update

Royal Horse Artillery Association

91st annual reunion weekend
T he 91st annual reunion of the RHA
Association took place at Larkhill over
the weekend of 8 and 9 October. Owing to
old comrades such as Lt
Col Peter Heaton-Ellis,
Maj Gerry Stirling and
a change in regimental policy the AGM Maj Gen Tim Streatfeild,
and reunion dinner took place in the Horne as well as our Standard
Barracks Sergeants’ Mess, the temporary Bearer, Graham Carter,
home of the RSA and Garrison Sergeants’ the guest of honour gave
Mess. Our principal guests this year were an excellent speech, which
Lt Gen and Mrs Richard Barrons. Lt Gen was well received with
Barrons is currently the Deputy Chief of the enthusiastic applause.
Defence Staff and a former CO of 3 RHA. Unfortunately, the band
As is customary the evening began with was unable to sound the
the presentation of the RHA Association Post Horn Gallop to
‘Whips’ competition trophy to the winning conclude the evening but
sub-section of The King’s Troop RHA. This their musical repertoire
The RHAA Whips winners with Gen Barrons
competition began in 1956 and, coincidently, was well received none the less.
the winners this year were as then: A sub- The church service took place at the Regt RA and the mess staff of the Sergeants’
section, led by the Number One, Sgt Dennis. Garrison Church of St Alban the Martyr, Mess who looked after us so well. As
Shortly after Mess Call was sounded by a now the home church of the Royal Artillery ever, special mention must be made of our
trumpeter of The King’s Troop, a total of 80 and officiated by the Garrison Padre, the dinner secretary, Maj Dick Whiteway, who
members and their ladies sat down to dinner. Rev Simon Bloxham-Rose who has also organised both events with his usual flair
We were very fortunate this year to have the served with 3 RHA in his time. This was well and efficiency. The next reunion will take
voluntary band of HMS Nelson, more than attended with over 40 members and their place at Trowbridge on Saturday, 6 October.
23 strong, to play during dinner and they ladies turning out for the occasion. After Full details can be obtained from the Dinner
were excellent. After the customary toasts to church everyone returned to the Sergeants’ Secretary, Maj R J Whiteway MBE, The
the association and a final farewell to some Mess where an excellent lunch was enjoyed Hideaway, 18 Immenstadt Drive, Wellington,
distinguished absent friends, which included by all. Our thanks must go to the RSM of 14 Somerset TRA21 9 PT.

Celebrating your Personal Development success

E ach year, the Gunners celebrate the Personal Development
successes of individuals and regiments. In December the Director
Royal Artillery, Brig Nick Eeles, presented this year’s Personal
Development Awards during his annual conference in Larkhill.
The value of attractive prizes ranged from £100 to £500 for
individuals with £250 for their regiment; and £2000 for Regiment of
the Year.
Brig Eeles was hugely impressed by the commitment and
achievements of the winners: “My congratulations to all those who
have received awards, and also to those who were nominated. I
encourage every regiment to make it possible for all personnel to
benefit from Personal Development.”

LBdr Craig Stevenson, 26 Regt RA collects the ‘Learner of the Year 2011’ award
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

• Learner of the Year: LBdr Craig Stevenson, 26 Regt RA

Highly Commended: Gnr Darren Edwards, 7 Para RHA
• Personal Development Regiment of the Year: 3 RHA
Highly Commended: 4 Regt RA and 16 Regt RA
• Apprentice of the Year: Gnr Daniele Martin, 16 Regt RA
Learning Centre Learner of the Year: Gnr Andrew Skelland,
Newcastle and Mrs Omolola Famuyiwa, Thorney Island
Highly Commended: Gnr Ashton Thomas, Lisburn
• Advanced Apprentice of the Year: LBdr Jone Mokiti, 3 RHA and
Sgt John Rea, 40 Regt RA
• Advanced Course Learner of the Year: Sgt Jonathan Hockney, 4
Regt RA and WO2 Chris Ball, 39 Regt RA
Lt Col J R Mead, Commanding Officer, 3 RHA collects the ‘PD Regiment See our website for a full report and photographs of the winners
of the Year’ award www.racpd.org.uk
 update 19

Postings Gazette
WO2 Norris IA HQ DRA QGI 01-Feb-12 REGULAR ARMY
WO2 Butler RC 16 Regt RA STANWO COMMS 01-May-12
WO2 Pugh RA Oxford UOTC PSI 01-July-12 Regular Commissions
WO2 Bulmer JG Leeds UOTC PSI ALAF 01-Feb-12 Maj A D Spaul retires on retired pay 30 Nov 11 and is appointed to Reserve of
WO2 Pearce JS 12 Regt RA TSM SP TP 01-Jan-12 Officers
WO2 James JK RA GTT WO QGI FD 01-Dec-11 Maj S I Mehers retires on retired pay 30 Jul 11

Regular Commissions (Late Entry)

Promotions Maj S A Roworth retires on retired pay 1 Dec 11 and is appointed to Reserve of
Officers
To Warrant Officer Class Two Maj N Ashford retires on retired pay 11 Jul 11
WO2 Priestley 32 Regt RA 05-Jan-11
WO2 Thynne 32 Regt RA 01-Apr-11 Intermediate Regular Commissions
WO2 Edge 1 RHA 11-Nov-10 Capt F J Du Toit retires 23 Nov 11 and is appointed to Reserve of Officers
WO2 Philip RSA 01-Apr-11 Maj M P Simon retires on retired pay 10 Jul 11 and is appointed to Reserve of
WO2 Mitchell 1 RHA 01-Apr-11 Officers
WO2 Lewis RA GTT 01-Apr-11
Intermediate Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
WO2 Ian RA GTT 01-Apr-11
Maj M Comerford retires on retired pay 4 Jul 11 and is appointed to Reserve of
WO2 Hall 39 Regt RA 01-Apr-11
Officers
WO2 Dinsley 5 Regt RA 01-Apr-11
WO2 Dayes 39 Regt RA 01-Apr-11
Short Service Commissions
WO2 Camp 47 Regt RA 01-Apr-11
Lt P T Williams to be Capt 13 Jun 11
WO2 Bridges 4 Regt RA 01-Apr-11
Lt A D Foster to be Capt 12 Oct 10 (Belated Entry)
WO2 Ashton 105 Regt RA (V) 01-Apr-11
Lt N S Hall to be Capt 25 Feb 11 (Belated Entry)
WO2 Pickersgill 5 Regt RA 01-Apr-11
Lt D J Gale to be Capt 13 Jun 11

Lt R P Grimsdell to be Capt 13 Jun 11
To Sergeant
Lt G A Mowbray to be Capt 13 Jun 11
Sgt Chambers 40 Regt RA 20-Jan-11
Lt S J Carr to be Capt 10 Oct 11
Sgt Porter 40 Regt RA 28-Oct-10
Lt R S J Corbett to be Capt 10 Oct 11
Sgt Baikie 40 Regt RA 06-Dec-10
Lt J S Cormier to be Capt 10 Oct 11
Sgt Blacknell 7 Para RHA 09-Jan-08
Lt S A J Girling to be Capt 10 Oct 11
Sgt Traynor 7 Para RHA 04-Jan-10 Lt S Martin to be Capt 10 Oct 11
Sgt Craven 7 Para RHA 29-Jul-10 Lt A M Taylor to be Capt 10 Oct 11
Sgt Thomson 7 Para RHA 29-Jul-10
Sgt Naylor 3 RHA 31-Mar-11 REGULAR ARMY RESERVE OF OFFICERS
Sgt Allison 29 Cdo Regt RA 01-Sep-10
Short Service Commissions
To Bombardier Capt M J Cornell from The Active List 23 Nov 11 to be Capt
Bdr Hollis 16 Regt RA 28-Oct-11
Bdr Bryant 16 Regt RA 04-Nov-11 TERRITORIAL ARMY
Bdr Treacher 16 Regt RA 04-Nov-11
Bdr Hamblin 47 Regt RA 17-Oct-11 Group A
Bdr Eason 16 Regt RA 04-Nov-11 Lt S A Luce to be Capt 1 Jul 11
Bdr Lomotey 1 RHA 03-Nov-11 Maj J S Westlake-Toms retires 11 Aug 11
Bdr Smith 7 Para RHA 03-Nov-11 Lt Col S J Gray at own request reverts to the rank of Maj 5 Nov 11 with seniority
Bdr Bostock 3 RHA 18-Nov-11 30 Sep 94
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

Bdr Hughes 29 Cdo Regt RA 18-Nov-11 2Lt (on probation) S C Fletcher from Royal Mercian and Lancastrian Yeomanry 1 Jun
Bdr Ternent 29 Cdo Regt RA 18-Nov-11 08 to be 2Lt (on probation) with seniority 30 Sep 07 (Belated Entry)
Bdr Porter 1 RHA 28-Nov-11 Lt Col R R Eve at own request reverts to the rank of Maj 1 Dec 11 with seniority
Bdr Jeffreys 16 Regt RA 15-Nov-11 30 Sep 93
Bdr Riley 16 Regt RA 10-Oct-11 C F Leeming to be Maj 1 Dec 11 with seniority 11 Nov 87 (formerly Regular Army)
Bdr Eaves 16 Regt RA 15-Nov-11 Capt R J Wilmont MBE from Regular Army Reserve of Officers Class II 27 Jul 11
Bdr Parkes 16 Regt RA 15-Nov-11 to be Capt
Bdr Greenfield 3 RHA 23-Nov-11 2Lt (on probation) S C Fletcher is confirmed as 2Lt 30 Sep 07 (Belated Entry)
Bdr Crossland 39 Regt RA 08-Dec-11
Bdr Gregory 1 RHA 12-Dec-11 THE HONOURABLE ARTILLERY COMPANY
Bdr Bolding 29 Cdo Regt RA 09-Jan-12 Group A
Bdr Whitaker 40 Regt RA 01-Jun-11 Lt H V E F Allnutt to be Capt 1 Jul 11
20 ubique

A Light Gun of 101 Regt RA (V) firing over the river Tyne at Gatesh
289 Para Troop RA (V), 100 (Yeomanry) Regt RA (V) at the Lord Major’s Show regiment’s Beating Retreat ceremony

Cdt Sgt Maj Liam Arnot from Northumbria ACF Northumberland Army Cadet Force cadets are pictured following completion of the two-day ACF Cros
was judged the best student on the Master Cadet The course was sponsored by 203 Bty, 101 Regt RA (V). The course served as a particularly good intro
course. The best cadets from around the county are cadets who said they intended to join either 101 or the regular Royal Artillery
selected to attend this demanding course which tests
their military skills, physical fitness and instructional
abilities. He is pictured receiving his award from
Col David Middleton, Col TA RA (and Commandant
Northumbria ACF)

Maj Jim Hurst, Gregg Wallace, John Torode and Last October members of 76 (Maude’s) Bty RA tra
Maj John Murphy, formerly 2IC 5 Regt RA, on the
WO2 (BSM) Thorne during filming of Celebrity to visit the grave of Capt Francis Maude VC. Left to
occasion of his dine out from the regiment and the
Master Chef at Pirbright WO2 (BSM) Thorne, Maj Flo Everett, Bdr Gray.
Army, and his presentation to the Mess. This was
immediately named the Murphy Sword by the CO and
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

awarded to the best young officer in the regiment,

Capt Angela Gordon. This award will be made annually

19 Regt RA wives were introduced to the joys of

foot drill, with varying degrees of success, during a
Gnr Cocklyn of 208 Bty RA (V) tackles the assault weekend-long exercise organised to allow them to A brand new Army Apprentice National Memorial, p
course at the Swynnerton Training Area experience what their husbands get up to at work Royal Artillery, was unveiled and dedicated at Alrew
 ubique 21

head as part of the

Two commemorative bricks (part of the A post-Libya reception for the armed forces was held at 10 Downing Street on 6 December.
Firepower Museum Brick by Brick Appeal), Above: Capt Paul Leister, NFS Spotter (ex 148 Bty), Lt Col Phil Shepheard-Walwyn NFS
were donated by members of 265 Bty, 106 Det Comd (ex 148 Bty), Maj Chris Taxis, NGLO, Maj Nick Sargent NFS Det Comd (ex
Regt RA (V). The BC, Maj Nick Woellwarth, is 148 Bty), and Lt RN Nick Harper NGS Team Leader (ex 148 Bty). Below, with the Prime
pictured above with one of the bricks Minister

ssed Flags course.

oduction for those

Above: The 1 RHA team that set a blistering

pace (literally) to complete this year’s Nijmegen
Marches. Below: And members of their QM’s
Department on the summit of Scafell Pike

avelled to Windsor
o right: Cpl Harvey,
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

partly funded by the Sealed and delivered. 2Lt Ruari Smith-Cooper of 100 Regt RA (V) gets up close to some
was in September of the inhabitants of the Falkland Islands
22 raa

Regimental Family
round up Weston-super-Mare Branch RAA

N ovember was a busy month for members

of the Weston-super-Mare Branch of
the RAA, with representatives at the local
poppy appeal launch, Armistice Day and
Remembrance Sunday events.
On 10 November it was a great honour
for members of the branch to be invited by
32 Regt RA to their homecoming parade
and thanksgiving service, both held in
Salisbury. Dave Marshall, our Standard
bearer, was present. We had a great day with
an opportunity to foster links with the serving
regiment and we all returned with lovely
memories of the excellent hospitality shown
to us.
On 19 November members raised funds
for the RACF and Combat Stress at a
Christmas Fair held at the Winter Gardens,
and organised by the Weston Rotary Club in
conjunction with Westo Town Council.
The Weston Branch meets on the fourth
Tuesday of each month at 1100 hours (except Standard bearer Dave Marshall on parade for 32 Regt RA’s homecoming parade in Salisbury on
for December) at the RAF Association 10 November.
Club, Eagle House, Alexandra Parade,
Weston BS23 1QX. New members are
always welcome. Further information can be Harrow Branch RAA
obtained from the branch secretary, Mrs CM
Varley, on 01278 795384.

by Mrs Chris Varley, Secretary

Royal Hospital Chelsea

E ver thought of becoming a Chelsea

Pensioner? Sheltered, independent

O
living supported by full medical care and
n Friday 4 November the Harrow Branch RAA held its 65th anniversary dinner at
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

catering services, in some of the most

the Royal British Legion building in Harrow. We had three principal guests – WO1
beautiful buildings in London. Retired
(RASM) Daz Hall, WO1 (RSM) Carl Gilbert, the RSM of the King’s Troop RHA and
soldiers can apply to become a Chelsea
WO2 (BSM) Dave Moffitt, the RA BSM (all pictured). Also in attendance were two
Pensioner from 65 years of age onwards.
trumpeters of The King’s Troop, who sounded Mess Call to summon the assembly to
Applicants should be active enough to
dinner, and members of our affiliated branch of the British Korean Veteran’s Association.
become ambassadors and travel the UK
A total of 76 members and guests sat down.
and overseas representing their home and
We had an entertaining evening with dancing, a raffle and an excellent speech by the
all that it stands for. For more information
RASM who talked about the artillery of today. We also said farewell to Harry Paterson our
visit: www.chelsea-pensioners.org.uk or
retiring chairman of 23 years, who has now become our vice-president. A very enjoyable
email: saraaddelsee@chelsea-pensioners.
and successful evening.
org.uk or calll: 020 7881 5204 or write
to: Royal Hospital Chelsea, Royal Hospital by Donald Kay, Chairman
Road, London SW3 4SR
 letters 23

Alfred the gate was commanding 94 Loc Regt RA in 1960/61 he came to stay with us.
He had just married one of the Boddam-Whetham girls.
I am sending you a cheque for £50 to pay for my magazine and a At the end of World War One, Newcome, of Newcome Hall
year’s supply for another veteran Gunner of modest means. fame, was running the School of Artillery in which both my father
I know you like equines so I want to tell you I’ve adopted a large, and father-in-law were IGs. When I got married immediately after
black mule at the Bransby Horses Home in Lincolnshire. He’s called World War Two, Newcome gave the speech at the wedding. He said,
Alfred and has just retired from a defence unit where Gunners and among other things, that when he married the widowed mother of
others are taught how to load a pack animal with supplies. I’m told he the Boddam-Whetham girls just before the war, the two girls didn’t
stands by the gate and absolutely refuses to move to let anybody in or approve and went on hunger strike.
out of the field. My late dad was called Alfred and boy, he was just as While I am writing can I mention that the 50th anniversary of the
stubborn. He drove my mum bonkers! Light Gun is due soon. I hope this will be suitably celebrated as the
I appreciate things are getting difficult for everybody, but I am gun has proved such a great success.
going to be cheeky and ask readers to support the Bransby charity by
either making a small donation, or sending them used postage stamps, Brig Fraser Scott
old post cards, cigarette cards, books, CDs and anything else that can Broxbourne
be turned into cash.
As always Ernie and I enjoy The Gunner. God bless and kind Casement wanted
regards to you, Kate and Lucy and all our soldiers abroad. Can anybody let me have the name and address of any relative of
Francis Casement; he made me a godfather to his son when we were
Catherine Davies both on the Long Gunnery Staff Couse in, I think, 1945.
Romford I have never done anything about it but wish now to send a small
cheque. Francis may still be alive, but I have dumped all my Blue
Thank you for the cheque which I eventually found, three months Lists. I can be contacted at 11 Thames Field, Wargrave Road, Henley-
after it was written, not at the bottom, but underneath my in-tray. If on-Thames, RG9 2ND.
anybody would like to support Bransby Horses Home they can do
so by contacting them at Saxilby, Lincoln, LN1 2PH. Email: mail@ Lt Col Peter Tindal-Carhill-Worsley
bransbyhorses.co.uk or tel 01427 788464. Editor Henley
Wallis largesse I’ve always wanted a godfather with a triple-barrelled surname – and
Thank you for the article on Barnes Wallis (Famous Gunners, a cheque book! We have no records of Francis Casement, but this
September) in which you mention his schooling at Christ’s Hospital letter does raise several interesting points. First, only retired officers
School. It may interest readers to know that Wallis made a substantial who subscribe to the RAI and/or Gunner Publications are listed in
presentation to the school towards the end of his life, the result of the Blue List. Second, for security reasons not all of these officers
his great sadness over the number of young fliers who died in the are willing to divulge their address. And third, please be careful
Dambuster’s raid, which he blamed on his inventing the so-called when ‘dumping’ old copies of the Blue List as they do contain some
‘bouncing bomb’. sensitive information. Editor.
At the end of the war Wallis was given £10,000 by the government
for his contribution to the war effort which he gave, in its entirety, to
Christ’s Hospital with the caveat that it be spent on the education of
the children of RAF personnel. This amount, which was matched by
the RAF Benevolent Fund, still provides for the education of RAF
children.
Can we have more famous Gunners please?

Lt Col John Ollerhead

Salisbury
Garden of remembrance
Every year we say ‘we will remember them’. What better way of
remembering our late friends and comrades than in a special place
where families and comrades can go to mourn and celebrate the lives
of departed loved ones?
This is the main idea of the RA Memorial Garden at Alrewas
which is a living and lasting memorial to those who gave their lives
in the service of their country. It is the only garden of its kind outside
London.
The members of the Stafford Branch of the RAA who tend the
garden would like to see more serving and retired Gunners visiting the
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

arboretum and calling to see us in the garden. At 1100 hours each day
Last Post is sounded, followed after two minutes of silence.
There is a cafe on site, lavatory facilities, a meeting room and a
souvenir shop. On the first Saturday in July, RA Day is celebrated
in our garden where wreaths are laid by various regiments, RAA
branches and individuals. Please make the effort to come and see what
we do.

David Dulson
Stafford Branch
Revolting daughters
Reading the obituary for Maj Gen Cordingley (in memoriam,
November) I thought that I should add a memory of my own. When I
24 in memoriam

Lt Col C J Boulter OBE MC

I n mid-1941 the situation of the Allies in Syria under the country’s
Vichy French administration was fast deteriorating and, after
the fall of Crete, there were fears that the country would become
a springboard for reinforcing the German military presence in
the Middle East. The capture of Damascus was seen as the key to
securing Syria for the Allies, and 5 Indian Inf Bde was despatched
from Irbid in Transjordan. The 3rd Bn 1st Punjab Regt (3/1 PR)
made up part of the force, and Boulter was detached to an anti-tank
company.
In June a night assault by 3/1 PR on the strongly defended village
of Kissoue, 15 miles south of Damascus, took the Vichy forces by
surprise. Subsequent mopping up operations at dawn the following
day flushed out several of the enemy hiding up to their necks in the
river that ran to a depth of five feet through groves and orchards.
A counter-attack by a Vichy battalion, supported by tanks and
heavy artillery, was repulsed due, in great extent, to Boulter’s skilful
use of anti-tank weapons. From Kissoue, Allied forces pressed on
towards Damascus in pitch darkness spasmodically lit by intense
artillery shelling.
In fierce engagements at Sheik Miskine and Mezze, Boulter
commanded his anti-tank guns while under intense fire, driving
off enemy tanks and armoured cars. The citation for the award
of an MC stated that from 8 June to 19 June he had shown great
determination, coolness and gallantry throughout the whole of
operations culminating in the capture of Damascus.
Charles John Boulter, the son of an army officer, was born at
Dorking, Surrey, on 20 January 1918. He was educated at the
Imperial Service College, Windsor, before passing out from
Sandhurst in January 1938. He was with 3/1 PR at Sidi Barrani in the
Western Desert, at the Battle of Keren in Eritrea, and subsequently
in Italy, at one point assuming command of the battalion after four
previous commanding officers had been killed in quick succession.
Unflamboyant and modest by nature, he was remembered by fellow
officers as a first-rate commander.
After the partition of India in 1947, like many infantry officers of
the Indian Army with a distinguised war record, Boulter was offered
a transfer to the RA, becoming in the process what was known at the
time as a ‘Black Gunner’. He found his initial service in the Royal and Sons. A popular and respected shipping manager at the London
Regiment quite different and challenging, but a tour in Korea as an office, he recruited officers for the group’s China Navigation
FOO with 14 Fd Regt RA, in which his infantry combat experience Company fleet. He retired in 1983 and settled in Kent.
stood him in good stead, changed all that. Several staff appointments Charles Boulter died on 10 July. He married Maureen Robins in
followed, and he then served with the UN in the Congo and in Singapore in 1949, having met her on board the ship out when she
Malaysia, being appointed OBE for his work in establishing the was travelling with her mother to join her father, Col CG Robins.
Malaysian Army after Malaysian independence. She died on 21 July succeeding her husband of over 60 years by
Boulter resigned from the Army in 1966 and joined John Swire only 11 days. He is survived by their daughter and four sons.
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012
 in memoriam 25

Lt Col A E Woodford MBE

L t Col Adrian (Alan) Edward Woodford MBE passed
away suddenly at home in Winkleigh, Devon on 23
November.
He was born on 26 August 1928 in Victoria Barracks
Windsor to Clara and Kenneth Woodford. Kenneth was a
Guardsman as was his father, so it was no surprise that the
boy always intended soldiering as a career. This ambition
was also driven by the period of tension, rearmament and
eventually war which arrived in 1939 when Alan was 11.
He was a bright and studious boy, despite tales within
the family of riotous behaviour within the barracks. He
won a scholarship to grammar school, which was no
mean feat for the son of a warrant officer in the 1930s.
His education, however, was interrupted by wartime
factory work with Hawker Aircraft at Langley, building
Hurricane fighters. He held a huge affection for this
aircraft all his life and one of his regrets much later, as
a vastly experienced pilot, was that he never managed to
fly one.
Alan was commissioned into the Royal Artillery in
February 1949. He intended a career as a commando and
completed various amphibious and parachute courses
but injured himself which prevented further arduous
exercise. He then transferred to air observation and
gained his wings in 1950, becoming an AOP pilot flying
Auster aircraft, mainly in Germany.
Alan married Sylvia Root of London in 1950. Sylvia
was a grammar school girl from a modest background but
took the role of an officer’s wife in the declining years
of empire with aplomb. They made a good partnership
which lasted until her death from cancer in 1994.
War service followed in Korea where he returned to
his primary trade of artillery officer, initially directing
heavy guns but then specialising in anti-aircraft artillery.
He was mentioned in despatches for bravery in repulsing
mass Chinese infantry assaults with field guns at
minimum range.
Alan returned to the United Kingdom after the war and
continued in army aviation. He flew a variety of aircraft
including Austers, Chipmunks and the very earliest British Army just over the border in Guangdong Province.
helicopter, the Skeeter. More active service followed in the Malayan Alan said that his final posting was also his most interesting.
Emergency where he served in mixed roles as both pilot, gunner and He went to the United States as the British Liaison Officer to the
occasionally as an infantry officer. 1956 found him still in the Far US Army Helicopter School at Fort Rucker, Alabama. He was
East, this time serving with the Hong Kong garrison tasked with involved in a vast range of helicopter projects and missile trials,
border security. There followed a decade of tours in both the UK, most of which remain classified. He flew all the then current US
based at Middle Wallop and in Germany based in Fallingbostel. helicopter types including the AH-1 Cobra and the ubiquitous UH-1
Alan was doing the same job that he had done in Hong Kong but of M*A*S*H fame. He was also the very first ‘foreign’ pilot to fly
this time on the inner German border, practising artillery shoots and evaluate the Boeing Model 77 attack helicopter which became
against the massed tank divisions of the Soviet Union parked less the AH 64 Apache, now in service in the modern AAC.
than 20 miles away. He took early retirement from the army in 1976 and became
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

1968 found him in Plymouth, commanding a mixed Army Air an emergency planning officer for various local authorities from
Corps detachment tasked with supporting Royal Marine and Royal Surrey to Edinburgh and south to Devon. Emergency planning lost
Navy special operations. This posting moved abruptly to Northern momentum after the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991 and Alan
Ireland when the Troubles flared in 1969 where it was more of the retired fully. He was, however, an active man and resisted the lure
same, but this time out of Bessbrook. of cardigan and lawnmower. He particularly needed an outlet after
1971 saw him promoted to lieutenant colonel and back in Hong the death of Sylvia in 1994 so he volunteered to work for the British
Kong commanding 656 AAC Sqn from Sek Kong airfield in the Red Cross and did sterling service coordinating flood relief work in
New Territories, flying Westland Scout and Bell Sioux helicopters. Devon. For this work he was awarded an MBE in 2001. After this
Alan was working in close cooperation with the garrison and his health began to decline, mainly physical disabilities surfacing
with the Hong Kong Police in a role that took in everything from after an extremely active life and he retired to a small cottage
countering economic smugglers across the colonial border to in Devon. In the last weeks of his life he was intensely proud to
measured reactions to communist Chinese ‘provocations’ and become a great-grandfather for the first time. Alan is survived by
‘shows of force’ by the million strong People’s Liberation Army, three sons: Andrew, Alastair and Jonathan.
26 sport

Carp classic champs R

Sgt Cain, 47 Regt RA

T he inaugural curtain closer to the Royal

Artillery carp angling season The Forces
Carp Classic was again held at the fantastic
Abbey Lakes complex, Northern France. This
year 60 anglers from across the Army, Navy,
RAF and emergency services came together
to fish the week long event for the prestigious
title Forces Carp Classic Champions 2011.
The event is run annually by two Gunners, Capt Terry McCann with the biggest common carp of the competition
Maj (Retd) Russ Marsh and WO2 Tim Gray
and this was the second year in a row the colleagues as well as a chance to walk round competition. The fish continued to come out
event was held at Abbey Lakes (the home of the complex for some the first time. In the at a steady rate until the last night when all
the eighth biggest carp in the world!) after last morning with a few smiles and a few sore went ballistic. On most nights an average
year’s success all competitors where looking heads it was time for the dreaded peg draw. of 15 fish had been caught, but on Friday,
forward to an excellent week’s angling. The draw is quite different from the norm, the final evening, a staggering 29 fish were
anglers are permitted after drawing a peg caught, keeping the organiser who had to
Hugely popular from the bag to decide whether to throw it weigh every fish very busy.
The competition was spread over three back and choose again; competitors have With the hours falling away the
different lakes to accommodate the hugely 10 seconds to do this all the while being competition was very close during the final
popular event: Atilla lake, a typical runs barracked by the audience, which adds few hours. Sgt Jimmy Caine (47 Regt RA)
water with fish running to 57lb; Fox lake pressure but is highly amusing. and his brother Luke Taylor were well ahead
with the average stamp of fish being nearer to The event finally kicked off at 1300 hours in the competition by a country mile, having
the mid-40s with an exceptional 60-pounder and after a slow start fish started to appear, caught consistently throughout the week.
thrown in; and the crown jewel, Heron lake on average 15 fish a night was caught in the At 2310 hours a fish was netted in peg 17
the home of ‘Shoulders’ at an average weight first three days. by Andy Moore, who turned to his partner
of 80lb. holding the rod, “My god it’s huge, I think
The anglers met up on the Saturday evening
Exceptional it’s Shoulders”!
for the registration and barbecue and enjoyed By the Wednesday In fact it was and the next two hours
a very pleasant evening afternoon we had a pause went by in a blur with weighing, photos,
with old in the competition to allow getting wet (a normal tradition when landing
competitors to re-charge a new personal best) and all manner of
their batteries and gather drinks including champagne were drunk in
for another barbecue and celebration.
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

refreshments. Due to the

wooden barbecue the
Results
food was exceptional but The final results were as follows:
incredibly burnt, to that Attila Lake: 1: Andy Night and Tom Jackson
end it was unanimously 304.09 x 14 fish. 2: Dave Greenland 201.10
suggested we hire a chef x 7 (Gunner). 3: Paul Bennett and Phil Kent
for next year’s event; 160.01 x 8 fish (Ex Inf)
Tim and Russ took the Heron Lake: 1: Chris Seeley and Andy Moore
comments fairly well. 380.14 x 10 fish (TA). 2: Iain Fordham and
Suitably refreshed Martin Brandon 199.10 x 7 fish (Inf). 3: Ricky
and rested the anglers O’Connor and Michael Wells 71.05 x 2 fish.
returned to their Fox Lake: 1: James Cain and Luke Taylor
uke rsh swims and awaited 399.02 x 11 fish (Gunner). 2: Anthony
rother L Maj Ma
C a in a nd his b s trophy from the start of the final stage of the McCann and Rod Simpson 235.14 x 7 fish
Sgt inner’
g the w
receivin
 sport 27

RA Nordic skiing

Y et again we have over 100 skiers on the RA Nordic training

scheme (the photo was taken just before start of 10km skate race).
Such a broad base will position us well for representation at the Army
improved! Gnr Fountain, 16 Regt RA, is an exceptional novice and
worthy of particular note. He is a GB Team member in the making;
Capt Sam Fogarty, 16 Regt RA, and WO2s Lythe and Butler, both GTT,
Championships and despite an early lack of snow, novice talent is have yet again delivered an outstanding and well disciplined scheme.
sound and, barring too much Christmas beer, snow skills and endurance Without their availability the scheme would not be possible.
will be in evidence by the time we get to Austria for the RA / RAC / Teams to beat this year are 3 RHA, 16 Regt RA and 40 Regt RA.
AAC Championships. The standard is good and our shooting is much More details to follow in Gunner.

(Gunner). 3: Mark Trayhorn and Lee Berry (14 Regt RA), WO2 Dave
206.09 x 7 fish (Gunner). Greenland (PJHQ), WO2
Overall Winners: Forces Carp Classic Steve Woolcombe (RSA),
Champions 2011: James Cain and Luke Mr Wayne Ashenden (ex
Taylor (47 Regt RA). Runners up: Chris Gunner), WO2 Tim Grey
Seeley and Andy Moore. and Maj (Ret) Russ Marsh.
2011 has been a cracking
A fantastic haul year for the RACC. It is
In total some 97 fish were caught by 30 inherent in any year to
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

pairs and these weighed in at 2920lb 3oz, gain or lose members of

which was made up of 36 x 30lb, 10 x 40lb, any team or club. This
2 x 50lb and 1 x 80lb, truly a fantastic haul of year has seen the RACC
fish beating last year’s event by some 400lb membership grow from a
of fish. host of Gunner regiments
Summing up the week Sgt James Cain regular and territorial.
of 47 Regt RA said, “This is the first time I 2012 will be no different; LBdr Trayhorn
, 19 Regt RA, wi
have fished this event and trust me it won’t in fact there will be more th a stunning m
irror carp
be my last, we are already planning for next events and more records to be broken. 411762, email:
year and retaining our title”. The event was If you would like to get involved with Swoolcombe@aol.com, or log onto the
well supported again by RACC members, the RACC and compete on some of our website www.gunnercarp.com.
LBdr Mark Trayhorn (19 Regt RA), Capt events please drop me a line, WO2 Steve
Terry McCann (RSA), Sgt Jon Costello Woolcombe (RA Carp Secretary) on 07825 by WO2 (SMIG) Woolcombe
28 sport

5 Regt RA, the Gillett Cup winners

Hockey
T he Gillett Cup and the newly named Chauhan Plate, the RA inter-
regimental hockey tournaments, were competed for on 16 and
17 November at Larkhill. Eight regiments entered and 110 Gunner
officers, soldiers and attached arms played in matches over the two
days with a minimum of five games per regimental team. Particular
thanks to 40 Regt RA who entered a team and travelled from Lisburn
in order to compete.
The hockey was not surprisingly very competitive and of a high
standard. Teams all played in the spirit of the tournament and it was
obvious numerous players have had their interest in the sport re-
invigorated or kick started. 12 new Gunner-standard players were
identified during the tournament. The competition was played in two
pools, with the top four entering the semi-finals of the Gillett Cup and

Above: WO2 Jeff Harris (14 Regt RA) producing a spectacular save.
Right: 12 Regt RA clear their lines in the Chauhan Plate final.
Below: 16 Regt RA attacking a short corner
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012
 sport 29

box head
The Regimental Colonel, Col Barry Jenkins, presents
the Gillett Cup to 5 Regt RA 12 Regt RA, Chauhan Plate winners

heroes
the bottom four competing, on the second day, for the Chauhan Plate.
Gillett Cup
Final
5 Regt RA v 14 Regt RA
(5 Regt RA won 4-1 on penalty flicks after a 1-1 draw in normal time)
Prizes were presented by the Regimental Colonel and
congratulations to 5 and 12 Regts RA on their victories. From a Semi-finals: 7 Para RHA v 14 Regt RA (14 Regt RA won 7-6 on penalty
Gunner sports perspective it was far more important that there was flicks after a 1-1 draw in normal time)
such a good turnout. It was a commendable effort from all involved 5 Regt RA v 32 Regt RA (5 Regt RA won 3-0)
considering the constant and unrelenting pace of life in the Royal Chauhan Plate
Regiment. It is hoped that regiments will support next year’s event
and continue to support players selected for the Gunner hockey Final
team. There is the also the possibility of an inter-regimental indoor 16 Regt RA v 12 Regt RA
competition next year. Thanks to WO2 Jeff Harris (RSO 14 Regt RA) (12 Regt RA won 5 - 3 on penalty flicks after a 0-0 final)
for all his hard work in organising a fantastic tournament.
After a round robin of all four teams (16 Regt RA, 12 Regt RA, 1 RHA
by Maj Jez Walters, Gunner Hockey Secretary and 40 Regt RA) the top two played the final

THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

30 sport

The front row gets set for battle

ROYAL ARTILLERY RUGBY FOOTBALL

CLUB FIXTURE LIST 2011/12
Rugby update
MEN: D ecember has not been a great month for Gunner rugby. The
women fielded a depleted side against a strong Army Medical
side who predictably ran out as eventual winners 57-5. Highlights for
Ser Date Event Match Date Location
the Gunner ladies was an impressive performance by scrum half 2Lt
6. 23 – 26 Jan RA vs RLC 25 Jan 12 Larkhill Ellwood who has earned a call up the Army Elite squad and the arrival
2012 of Capt Fidler straight from Heathrow airport to take the field and
7. 27 – 29 Jan Jersey vs RA 28 Jan 12 Jersey score an impressive try. Next the ladies face the REME on 18 January
at Aldershot, kicking off at 1900 hours.
8. 20 – 23 Feb RMAS vs RA 22 Feb 12 Sandhurst
(Development) (1430 hrs) Resurgent
9. 27 Feb – 1 RE vs RA 29 Feb 12 Chatham The men, fresh from victories over the REME and the Royal
Mar Signals faced a resurgent Infantry side, based on 1 and 2 Bns The
10. 19 - 22 Mar RA vs AGC 21 Mar Larkhill Royal Welsh, at Tidworth. The Infantry started well be seizing on
2012 End of Season our dropped receipt of kick off and quickly scored in the corner. The
Dinner Gunner men were rattled and tried to rectify the situation but forced
play so much that more unforced errors crept into their game and a
11. 18 Apr Corps Finals 18 Apr 12 Aldershot shocking kick was charged down to give the Infantry their second try.
12. 16 – 25 Apr MacIlwaine/ 25 Apr 12 Larkhill The team rallied itself and began to dominate both set piece and loose
Mackenzie Cup (Finals) play which led to Gnr Lloyd Hazeleman cutting through the Infantry
defence like a knife through butter to score under the posts, which he
13. Sat 28 Apr 12 Army v Navy 28 Apr 12 Twickenham
also converted and this was swiftly followed by him kicking a penalty
14. Wed 2 May 12 RA Sevens 2 May 12 Larkhill after some sustained pressure in the Infantry half.
WOMEN: After a rousing team chat at half time the Gunner men started well
but again the unforced errors crept in and a loose pass was intercepted
Ser Date Event Match Date Location leading to another score swiftly followed by an impressive kick and
6. 17 – 18 Jan Corps 5 18 Jan 12 Aldershot chase to lead to their final try of the
12 match. In the last 15 minutes the
Gunner team came alive and at last
7. 7 – 8 Feb 12 Corps 6 8 Feb 12 Aldershot
the fruits of their labour paid off
8. 28 – 29 Feb Corps 7 29 Feb 12 Aldershot with a great try after several phases
12
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

of play. The game finished 20-15

9. 20 - 22 Mar RA vs AGC (tbc) 21 Mar 12 Larkhill to the Infantry after a frustrating
12 End of Season match where the team did not do
Dinner themselves justice and allowed
the Infantry to capitalise on their
10. 18 Apr 12 Corps Final 18 Apr 12 Aldershot mistakes to score. Next they face
VETERANS: the RLC at Larkhill on 25 January
kicking off at 1400 hours. It is
Ser Date Event Match Date Location
hoped this game will be preceded
2. 25 Jan 12 RA vs RLC 25 Jan 12 Larkhill by a veterans game against the RLC
3. 29 Feb 12 RE vs RA 29 Feb 12 Chatham kicking off at 1100 hours.
4. 28 Apr 12 7 Para Old 28 Apr 12 Twickenham by Maj Nick Andrew,
Boys vs RA Director RA RFC Gnr Wacka Waqanisau out jumps his opponen
 sport 31

Spirited fighter award; Master Jones and LBdr

LBdr Guba, Mne Chris Gray, Maj Worsley and Flt Lt Kieth Lam Guba

Kendo can do
L Bdr Guba of C Bty, 3 RHA joined the
Army Tae Kwon do and Kendo Team
in 2008 on return from Op HERRICK 8. A
to make it to the finals, where they faced the
then undefeated UCL team. The Combined
Service team were too strong for the UCL
with a passion for sport, he always looks to
improve himself and go one step further and
he has more international championships in
gymnast from an early age, his impressive triplet in the end, who won the final by six his sights.
flexibility and power formed the foundations points to four to take the gold. “I am a keen sportsman and the Army has
of a strong fighter. He was immediately given me lots of opportunity to do some great
selected to represent the Combined Services Ecstatic activities. My main hobbies are tae kwon
in the Open Tae Kwon do Championships Based on the opinion of the event do and kendo. I have achieved a fourth Dan
2009 where he was awarded a bronze medal organiser, Master Jones, and backed by the black belt in tae kwon do and a first kyu black
in the heavyweight category. view of the judges, LBdr Guba received belt in kendo and have represented the Army
Since then LBdr Guba has continued the award for the ‘Most Spirited Fighter’ and Combined Services in both sports. Last
to win trophies and titles within the Army, throughout the whole event, the second year I got the opportunity to travel to South
Inter-Services and also at international competition in a row that he has been given Korea to compete internationally against the
championships in both kendo and tae kwon this award. The Combined Services Kendo South Korea Military which was an amazing
do. He is currently the Army champion in was led by chairman, Brig Carmichael and experience; I even won the gold medal.
both disciplines. Maj David Worsley, who were ecstatic for the My recent endeavours in the Mumeishi’s
In May 2010, at the international Combined Service team’s first victory. International Clubs’ Championships were
championships, he was awarded the judges’ LBdr Guba is now looking forward to the truly a great challenge, as ever 3 RHA
choice of ‘Best Fighting Spirit’ for the entire trip of a lifetime to Japan next year, to partake have been completely understanding and
event. This is a great credit to his enthusiasm in the Kendo Championships and the chance supportive of my martial arts interests and I
and enshrined by his personal mottos “Never to train with kendo gurus. Like every person thank them for it.”
give up” and “Keep fighting until the final
whistle blows”.
Just weeks after returning from HERRICK
14, LBdr Guba went to one of his most
challenging events to date, the Combined
Service Kendo Competition in London at
the Mumeishi’s International Kendo Clubs’
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

Championships on 19 November. 65 teams,

consisting of three men each, took part in the
competition, an all time high in the history
of the event.
The British Combined Service team had
an individual from each of the services, Flt Lt
Keith Lam representing the RAF, Mne Chris
Gray for the Royal Navy and 3 RHA’s LBdr
Yamikana Guba as the Army representative.
This is the first year that the armed forces
have been represented by combined services;
the past seven years have seen only single
service teams involved. The combined team
nt went through a total of 15 undefeated fights LBdr Guba (left) defending
32 sport

Gunner Sail Training 2012

T he Royal Artillery Yacht Club will be organising a number of adventurous
sail training courses in spring 2012 in order to encourage soldiers
from the Royal Artillery to participate in offshore sailing and allow them
The following courses are planned:

Ser Course Dates Remarks

to obtain Royal Yachting Association (RYA) awards. The courses will take 1 RYA Competent Crew 1 18-23 Mar 12 (5 vacancies)
place onboard the RAYC yachts in the Solent. 2 RYA Competent Crew 2 18-23 Mar 12 (7 vacancies)
The RYA is the 3 RYA Competent Crew 3 25-30 Mar 12 (7 Vacancies)
UK governing body 4 RYA Day Skipper 1 25-30 Mar 12 (4 vacancies)
representing sailing; 5 RYA YM (Coastal) 1 15-20 Apr 12 (4 Vacancies)
their training awards 6 RYA Competent Crew 4 15-20 Apr 12 (7 vacancies)
are world renowned 7 RYA Competent Crew 5 22-27 Apr 12 (7 vacancies)
and are used by 8 RYA Day Skipper 2 22-27 Apr 12 (4 vacancies)
Joint Services as
recognised Adventure Bids are to be made directly, to Mrs Debbie Turner, EST Chief Clerk on:
Training qualifications. Tel: 01980 845361 or email: uktiestl-clk@mod.uk

GUNNER FOOTBALL CALENDAR 2011/12

Calling all Ser Date Fixture Venue Remarks

Commando Gunners 10 23 Jan Woolwich Cup

Semis
TBC Mon Floodlight

• Plymouth, 20 - 22 July 2012 11 6 Feb RAPTC v RA Aldershot League Mon Floodlight

• Music of the Night, Friday 20 July followed by 12 17 Feb RA v Reme Larkhill League
a full weekend of reunion celebrations 13 2 Mar RLC V RA Deepcut League TBC
• Special rates for Music of the Night tickets for 14 5 Mar Woolwich Cup Aldershot
Commando Gunners available until Final
17 October 15 23 Mar Inter Bty Larkhill Winners 24 Bty RA
Shield Final
• For further information visit www.
commandogunner.com 16 23 Mar AGC V RA TBC

50th Anniversary
17 23-27 Apr REME v RA Chatham Quads
18 23-27 Apr R SIGS V RA Chatham Quads
19 23-27 Apr RA V RE Chatham Quads

Celebrations 20 20 Jun Gunner Cup

Final
Larkhill 19 Regt RA

GUNNER WOMEN’S FOOTBALL CALENDAR 2011/12

Livery Yard in Everleigh Date Fixture Location Kick Off

(SN8 3EU) 26 Jan 12 London FA v Army TBC 1930

• Full or Part Livery vacancies 20 Jan AMS v RA Keough 1030
(includes all facilities) 9 Feb Army v Middlesex Army Stadium 1930
• Secure American Barn Stables
• Outdoor School (flood lit) 23 Feb RAF v Army Cosford 1400
(also available for hire for non 8 Mar Army v Navy Army Stadium 1400
liveries)
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

16 Mar RA v R SIGS Larkhill 1030

• XCountry Course (also available
for hire for non liveries) 19 Apr REME v RA Bordon 1930
• Horses available for loan 4 May RA v AGC Larkhill 1030
• Regular XCountry, Jumping
and Dressage Clinics – ring for 10 May EOST Army Stadium 0900
details
• Horse Transport available
• Easy access to both RA and
Tedworth Hunting Country
The Army v Navy 2012
Mobile: 07990 571463 • Landline: 01264 852674
Saturday, 28 April 2012
Email: info@everleighequestrian.co.uk For tickets see WO2 (SMIG) Woolcombe:
Website: www.everleighequestrian.co.uk 94322 5364 or 01980 (84) 5364
 to place your notice here contact 01980 634204 33

for sale rayc notice Jun. Please spread the word and contact
The following are deemed to have resigned the event secretary, Lt Col Peter Bates, by
history of the citadel from the RAYC under rule 49 of the RAYC email to: peter.bates555@mod.uk
I have written an A5-size book about the Rules and Bye-Laws - non-payment of full
history of the Royal Citadel on Plymouth subscription by 1 November in the year c BTY RHA PPMA
Hoe. It is full of colourfull illustrations/ due: Mr W Horlick, Capt SR Martin, Maj A C Bty RHA past and present members all
photos and tells the story of the Citadel, SJ Marshall, Maj DF Oldershaw, Mr JH ranks reunion is being held on 24 Mar at the
Rogers, Mr PS Scrannage and Lt H Spain.
why it was built, why it is in Plymouth and Copthorne Hotel, Birmingham B3 3HJ. For
even what happened to Oliver Cromwell’s further details please email: cbatteryrh@
head. The book is for sale at a reasonable recruit for spouces gmail.com or: jeffsmith1809@yahoo.
£5. All profits go to the Plymouth Branch Heledd Kendrick, wife of a British RLC co.uk
of the RAA. Please contact Sgt P Harley, army officer, is in the process of setting
29 Cdo Regt RA, Royal Citadel, Plymouth up a company called Recruit for Spouses 26 Regt RA Association
PL1 2PD or phone 01752 236131. to help strengthen the employment The next reunion of the 26 Regt RAA
opportunities for spouses of all three will be held on the weekend 2-4 Mar at
WAGS ARMY CALENDAR branches of the British Armed Forces. the Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool. For more
The WAGS Army 2012 calendar is now For further information please visit their information call the secretary on 07792
on sale. Featuring wives of soldiers in website at: www.recruitforspouses.co.uk 976042 or visit the association website:
39 Regt RA, dressed in their husbands’ 26thregra-asc.com
uniforms, each calendar costs £7:50 incl reunions
p & p. All proceeds to the ABL and RBL. 1942 university entrants
THE CHESTNUT TROOP RHA 219TH
Further details available from Eric Ingram FOUNDATION DAY REUNION It is planned to hold a final reunion lunch
01912 132274 or mobile 07931 743417. The Chestnut Troop RHA will be holding on the 70th anniversary for the 1942
To order go to: WAGSarmy@live.co.uk its 219th Foundation Day celebrations at university entrants into the RA. The lunch
Assaye Barracks in Tidworth over Fri 3 will take place in the RA Mess on Tue 3
information wanted and Sat 4 Feb. The weekend will consist Apr. Those interested should contact Lt
of a church service and battery photo and Col Leslie Addington at The Old School
9 (plassey) bty ra football for the Chris Manley Memorial House, Heytesbury, BA12 0EG. Tel: 01985
Any past members of 9 (Plassey) Bty Trophy on Fri morning and dinner in the 840202.
RA who are interested in receiving a evening. On Sat a families’ party will be
biannual newsletter to keep in touch with held in the evening. This year the battery YOs’ Course Autumn 1961
what the battery are currently up to are would like to find as many past members A reunion lunch to mark the 50th
asked to contact Sgt Mike Webber by as possible to attend, if you know any past anniversary of the YOs’ course held in the
tel 07976 049259 or 01243 388525. All members of the battery who would like to autumn of 1961 (RMAS Intake 27 + Mons)
attend this year’s function please let us
past and serving members are more than will be held in the RA Mess, Larkhill on
know. On behalf of the BC and serving
welcome. Further contact details are: members of The Chestnut Troop RHA we Wed 25 Apr. The event will start at 1100
email mikeontour09@yahoo.co.uk hope you can attend this year’s function hours and ladies are warmly invited. Would
and we look forward to seeing you. Please any ex-YO who wishes to attend and has
55 (The Residency) HQ Bty RA contatct Sgt Harker, The Chestnut Troop not been contacted please contact either
In preparation for the 2012 Residency RHA by phone on 01980 602381 or by Stuart Severs by e-mail: stuart.severs@
Day celebrations, the battery is looking to email to: 1RHA-CHTP-FAC@MOD.UK orange.fr or Nigel Bladon by telephone on
update its Old Comrades and Ex Members 01300 341375.
lists.If you have served within 55 HQ Bty ra boys, artificers and junior
and would like to be entered into the leaders association 25 regt ra
Old Comrades and Ex members list then The 2012 reunion of the Royal Artillery A 25 Regt RA reunion will be held in the
please contact the BSM at the following Boys, Artificers and Junior Leaders Central WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess, Larkhill
address: WO2 (BSM) George ECR 55 Association will once again, by popular over the weekend 22-24 Jun. It is open
(The Residency) HQ Bty RA, 26 Regt RA, demand, be held at the Holiday Inn,
to all ex-members of the regiment. For
Walsgrave Road, Coventry CV2 2HP over
Mansergh Bks, Gutersloh, BFPO 713 or the weekend Fri 20-Sun 22 Apr. Full further information please contact Steve
email:gmonster32@hotmail.co.uk Russell. Tel: 01985 214376 or email:
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

details, programme, costs etc will be

published in the January edition of The stevenrussell771@btinternet.com
information Trumpeter. For further information please
contact Ted McKenzie on 07900 806235 4 Regt RA
RAYC website or email: tiger-ted@exboysra.co.uk The next Officers’ Mess reunion dinner
The RAYC now has an independent will be held on Friday 27 January at
website that offers the opportunity for FALKLANDS WAR 30th Alanbrooke Barracks, Topcliffe. All ex-
individuals and organisations to advertise Anniversary Dinner members of the regiment are most
and promote sailing related expeditions The 30th anniversary of the Falklands War welcome to attend. BC 3/29 will be
and activities. There are also links to will be marked by an anniversary dinner the dinner secretary and for more
related sailing clubs at home and abroad. for all serving and retired RA officers who information, please initially contact the
To view the website please go to www. served in the war in May-Jun 82. It is to Mess Manager on 01845 59 5291 or by
rayc.org.uk. be held at the RA Mess Larkhill on Fri 1 email 4RA-Offrs-Mess@mod.uk.
34 competitions

The closing date for all competitions in this month’s edition is Friday, 17 February 2012. The winners will be drawn
at random and notified as soon as possible. Don’t forget to fill out the form at the bottom of the page.

The Gunner wordsearch

Spot the difference Here is the ultimate wordsearch – one without
words! All you have to do is find out which two of
the well-known military abbreviations and acronyms
listed below do not appear in the wordsearch. They
may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or
backwards. Solve the puzzle and you could win a
copy of Artillery – A History as featured below.
G L T G O N F M P U P P L S H Z
Q G O R W H A J V S E Y G P S C
A P S A O C O M N O G O W B I N
F W Q T F I P A E C G E T S U S
M U Z S D F C F R W O I S U R S
H R H I H A M M C R X C C Y A E
B A E R S A U J D H L X W S H R
U D S N R N D X N C F J R W S O
R A H B I V Z V K L D O S A Y V
U R O R N D A B G Q I L M B C S
J C M X X T P K N M O T Z Q N F
C J B B C C D F T U F R Z A P B
X M A O E S H C A B M A M W N F
Z L L A N Y I M Z X I O P M A J
L D F L R C B U R Q F B Q E T R
G M L F E N O A Z G A M H T O P
To win this lightweight, versatile and
comfortable Energizer Pro 4 LED Headlight, ISTAR ASP JLRRA
kindly donated by GarrisonPRI.co.uk, all RADAR NAAFI JNCO
you have to do is spot the five differences SUS NATO GPS
SAS RAHS RAA
in the photos above, fill in the form below
UAS RACF GBAD
and send your answers to The Gunner. MAMBA SSAFA BONCO
COBRA HESH GMLRS
Please tick which competitions you are entering.
Then fill out all your details and send it to us Gunner A rtillery, A History by John Norris is a paperback book of 215
pages which, as the name implies, attempts to give a history of
artillery of all nations from the 11th century to the present day. It goes
Publications, HQ DRA, RA Barracks, Larkhill,
almost without saying that with such a vast subject, and so little space,
Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 8QT.
this is not a detailed history encompassing all artillery disciplines. As
Spot the difference  such it will probably not appeal to military historians who
Wordsearch  crave detail, but it will surely attract those
with a general interest in the development
Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . of guns, ammunition and explosives over
the ceturies. Which I would have thought
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

Tel:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . would most of our readers!

The book is nicely illustrated
Email:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(including a picture of the ‘British-
Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . designed, ultra-lightweight 155mm
howitzer’ which sadly never entered
.......................................... service with the RA) and has a fairly
detailed index.
.......................................... Published by The History Press
the book is available from all good
bookshops (IBN 978-0-7524-6189-
Last month’s winners were:
2) at a cost of £14.99, but you
Spot the Difference: Dennis Parry, Wiltshire might win a free copy by having
wordsearch: James Christie, Surrey a go at this month’s wordsearch.
 up front

THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012

35
 36
THE GUNNER • JANUARY • 2012