Medics rugby 2011 web by Simon Osborn

MEDICS RUGBY CHALLENGE

Programme £2

8 November 2011

Contents Welcome Surgeon Commander Anthony Lambert RN ..................................................................... 3 Team Supporter Sean Fitzpatrick ........................................................................................................ 4 Brigade Commander Brigadier Ed Davis ............................................................................................ 6 Commanding Officer JF Med Gp Commander Carol Betteridge ....................................................

Medics on Deployment .......................................................................................................................... 9 Herrick 13 and 14 Roll of Honour .......................................................................................................... 10 RMCTF Brigadier Simon Hill ................................................................................................................. 14 Hasler Company WO Jim Morris .......................................................................................................... 16 Peninsula Medical School Dr Adrian Copplestone ............................................................................ 18 Peninsula Medical School RFC Professor Andy Domaine ................................................................ 20 Royal Marines Squad ............................................................................................................................. 23 Medics Rugby Challenge ....................................................................................................................... 24 Peninsula Medical School Squad ......................................................................................................... 25 Devonport Services Under 16 Squad ................................................................................................... 26 The Youth Match ..................................................................................................................................... 27 Ivybridge Under 16 Squad ..................................................................................................................... 28 Medical Officers on the Ground Surgeon Lieutenant Jon Evans ..................................................... 30

Surgeon Lieutenant Jonathan Ritson From Medic to Patient Corporal Cassidy Little ................................................................................. 32 Through My Eyes Marine Andy Grant ................................................................................................. 34 The Big Decision Marine Andy Grant ................................................................................................... 36 Along the Fairway Marine Jack Smith ................................................................................................. 38

Marine Mark Goddard Surf Action Russ Pierre ......................................................................................................................... 40 Operation Cornish Wave Corporal Matt Abbott ................................................................................. 42 Major Sponsors ....................................................................................................................................... 44 Sponsors ................................................................................................................................................. 45 Medics Rugby Challenge Sweetheart .................................................................................................. 46 Medics Rugby Challenge 2012 ............................................................................................................. 47 Cover photograph courtesy of Petty Officer (Photographer) Hamish Burke

Designed and printed by: www.pdsprint.co.uk

Welcome! When deployed on Herrick 9 in 2008 I decided to organise a rugby match to raise money for some of our injured. In the icy wind and rain in November 2009, almost 2000 people turned up to support the event. Last year, the second game supported the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund (RMCTF) and in slightly better weather conditions, the event was again really well attended. This is the third Medics Rugby Challenge, a game between a Royal Marines team and one from the Peninsula Medical School. It follows immediately after the return of 3 Commando Brigade from their most recent tour of Afghanistan. If you look around you in the stands (and the bars!) you will see the massive support for our servicemen and women from the local community and beyond. You will also see those who have recently returned from their tours of duty Ô letting their hair downÕ b ut still finding time to support the cause. Look again and you will see some, including Royal Marines from Hasler Company based at HMS Drake, who were injured during their tours of duty. There are, unfortunately, some who cannot be at the game tonight because they made the ultimate sacrifice. The Royal Marines Band Service is internationally renowned for the versatility of its Musicians and Buglers and the precision drill of its marching bands, fronted by the Corps of Drums. What is not always appreciated is the role that these men and women have on operations. They support the Royal Naval Medical Services by casualty handling and undertaking patient administration. The Commando Training Centre Band, based at Lympstone, were deployed on Herrick 14 and by fate or design, this is their first gig since returning from Afghanistan.

The Role 3 Hospital in Camp Bastion was largely manned by the Royal Naval Medical Branch during this recent tour. Many of those who were deployed are also here tonight, raising money for those they cared for during their deployment. It is also an opportunity for them to catch up and swap Ô ditsÕ a nd experiences. These informal gatherings are a great way to meet friends and colleagues, past and present, and keep in touch. In addition to supporting two rugby sides bent on success, there is the opportunity to support those unfortunate to benefit from the RMCTF. The intention is that the Medics Rugby Challenge will continue to be played on the Tuesday before Remembrance Sunday each year. If you have enjoyed this evening, please tell your friends and bring them along to next yearÕ s game on Tuesday 6 November 2012. Finally, I would like to thank all those who have helped make this event the success that it undoubtedly will be. Please visit our website www.medicsrugbychallenge.co.uk and support those who have supported it.

Surgeon Commander Anthony Lambert MSc MS FRCS (Gen Surg) Royal Navy Event Organiser

Team Supporter

New ZealandÕ s Sean Fitzpatrick is one of the giants of international rugby holding the world record for playing in 63 consecutive Test matches and being the worldÕ s most capped hooker. His extraordinary international career began with his debut for the All Blacks in 1986 against France. He was appointed captain of the All Blacks in 1992 and played in 121 international matches, including 92 Test matches, a New Zealand record. Sean also holds the record for most Test matches as an All Black captain (51) and has played in more Test match victories (74) than any other player.

In the current climate it is important that we can help raise the funds necessary to aid the recovery and rehabilitation that all service men and woman deserve. I look forward to a great day in Plymouth. Rugby events like this are an inspiration and a superb way to bring people together for real purpose, whilst having a huge amount of fun. Anthony Lambert and the guys at Watercooled and Formedia have done a great job in promoting this occasion. Good luck to both teams!’

He led New Zealand to a series win over the touring British Lions in 1993 and also led the All Blacks to a clean sweep in the first TriNations tournament in 1996. He became the first New Zealander to captain a Test series win in South Africa. He was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit by the Governor General in 1997, was inducted into the International Hall of Fame in 2001 and into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 2002. At the end of 1999, Fitzpatrick was named as hooker in Rugby World magazineÕ s Team of the Century. In March 1999 Sean was appointed as ‘Rugby ConsultantÕ t o the NZRFU responsible for player development and liaison. Sean is now based (since 2004) in the United Kingdom with his wife Bronwyn and their two daughters Grace (17) and Eva (11). Ô I am proud and honoured to be able to support the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund in what is the 3rd Annual Medics Rugby Challenge.

Sean Fitzpatrick

The Button Cup As last year, WATERCOOLED SURF is delighted to be the major sponsor for the “Medics Rugby Challenge”, this year in support of The Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. We are pleased once again to present the BUTTON CUP as the now perpetual trophy for this important fixture, which we are sure will be an exciting and hard fought contest. As some will know, the cup is named in the fond memory of Malcolm Button, a friend and former member of our staff, whose enthusiasm for and life time involvement with the game of Rugby makes him a worthy candidate to be remembered in association with this worthwhile event. If he were here today I’m sure we would all enjoy his “erudite critique” of the match! Regrettably he is not here but his cup is. He would be very proud. Peter Adams

Brigade Commander Herrick 14 I am immensely grateful that, once again, the Royal Marines Charitable Fund (RMCTF) is the beneficiary of the Medics Rugby Challenge; a great event that typifies what makes the Corps really rather special: an unwavering desire to win for the benefit of others. Owing to the inspirational Anthony Lambert, the success of this event has helped tremendously in ensuring that those brave and selfless Royal Marines who have been injured in the line of duty, keeping the rest of us safe, are looked after in their time of need. With 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines having just recovered from its fourth tour in Afghanistan, after Operation HERRICK 14, the need to invest in the CorpsĂ&#x2022; Rehabilitation Programme has never been greater. On HERRICK 14 alone, approaching 50 Royal Marines were seriously wounded in action; a significant proportion of which suffered life-changing injuries. All gave some, some gave all. It is now our turn to repay their sacrifice. I pay tribute to Anthony and all of you here today for caring enough to support this most worthy cause. On behalf of the Royal Marines, I thank you for your support and generosity. Brigadier Ed Davis Brigade Commander Herrick 14

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Commanding Officer Joint Forces Medical Group Herrick 14 What a privilege it is to be here at the Medics Rugby Challenge 2011. There could not be a more fitting end to my deployment as the Commanding Officer of the Role 3 Hospital at BASTION on OP HERRICK 14.

Royal Centre for Defence Medicine (RCDM), now based at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) in Birmingham, as soon as they are injured. When the need is there they can be in the QEH 18hrs from point of woundingÉ some might say the only time the RAF is always on time!! The real long term hard work for the boys starts when they return home. Some may have to spend many months in RCDM and Headley Court before moving on to Hasler Company, the Royal Marines Rehabilitation Unit based at HMS Drake, here in Plymouth.

The Hospital Regiment has consisted of personnel from 61 units, 4 nations, regulars, reserves and civilians. All were highly trained professional ‘Medics’, totally committed to their task of supporting Ô the BoysÕ of 3 Commando Brigade on the ground.

When they probably feel at their lowest and are looking for a quiet time of reflection they meet ‘Doc Lambert’ who, in his own special way, nurtures them and cares for them…. NOT! He gives them a really hard time and reminds them they are still Ò RoyalÓ . His work is truly an inspiration to us all, thank you ‘Doc’ for all you do. Please take the opportunity today to support him in this work. Lastly, to our brave boys, keep up the good work and be strong Ô RoyalÕ .

The deployment has been all the more special to me as I am married to a non-serving (never ‘ex-’) Royal Marine and I have worked with them regularly over the last 21 years. I have been so very proud of what the Hospital Regiment has achieved during a busy deployment and one which has, unfortunately, involved caring for some seriously injured Royal Marines. The injured, thankfully, are only with us in Bastion for a short period of time but its long enough for us to be touched by their courage, strength of character and as always, even in the most difficult times, their Ò bootneckÓ sense of humour. The now well-practiced AEROMED chain kicks into action to ensure their safe return to the

Commander Carol Betteridge Commanding Officer Joint Forces Medical Group Herrick 14

Medics on Deployment - work and play

Herrick 13 and 14

HERRICK 13 and 14: Roll of Honour

Marine

David

Fairbrother

42 Commando, Royal Marines

L/Cpl

Jonathan

McKinlay

1st Battalion The Rifles

Sgt

Barry

Weston

42 Commando, Royal Marines

Daniel

Clack

1st Battalion The Rifles

Marine

James

Wright

42 Commando, Royal Marines

Cpl

Mark

Palin

1st Battalion The Rifles

L/Cpl

Paul

Watkins

9th/12th Royal Lancers

Highlander

Scott

McLaren

Royal Regiment of Scotland

Pte

Gareth

Bellingham

3rd Battalion The Mercian Regiment

Cfn

Andrew

Found

REME

Cpl

Lloyd

Newell

The Parachute Regiment

L/Cpl

Martin

Gill

42 Commando, Royal Marines

Rifleman

Martin

Lamb

1st Battalion The Rifles

Cpl

Michael

Pike

Royal Regiment of Scotland

Ollie

Augustin

42 Commando, Royal Marines

HERRICK 13 and 14: Roll of Honour

Marine

Sam

Alexander

42 Commando, Royal Marines

Colour Sjt

Kevin

Fortuna

1st Battalion The Rifles

Marine

Nigel

Dean Mead

42 Commando, Royal Marines

Capt

Lisa

Head

Royal Logistic Corps

Ranger

Aaron

McCormick

1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment

C/Sgt

Alan

Cameron

1st Battalion The Scots Guards

Maj

Matthew

Collins

1st Battalion The Irish Guards

L/Sgt

Mark

Burgan

1st Battalion The Irish Guards

Pte

Daniel

Prior

The Parachute Regiment

L/Cpl

Stephen

McKee

1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment

L/Cpl

Liam

Tasker

Royal Army Veterinary Corps

Pte

Dean

Hutchinson

Royal Logistic Corps

L/Cpl

Kyle Cleet

Marshall

The Parachute Regiment

Pte

Robert

Wood

Royal Logistic Corps

HERRICK 13 and 14: Roll of Honour

Pte

Conrad

Lewis

The Parachute Regiment

Pte

Lewis

Hendry

The Parachute regiment

Colin

Beckett

The Parachute Regiment

Ranger

David

Dalzell

1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment

Pte

Martin

Bell

The Parachute Regiment

Pte

Joseva

Vatubua

The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders

Charlie

Wood

Royal Logistic Corps

Cpl

Steven

Dunn

Royal Corps of Signals

Pte

John

Howard

The Parachute Regiment

Guardsman

Christopher Davies

1st Battalion

The Irish Guards

SAC

Scott

Hughes

RAF Regiment

The Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund (RMCTF) The RMCTF has among the widest purposes of any Service charity in that it looks after both serving and retired Royal Marines, and their dependants; The Corps Family. This converts into some 125000 potential beneficiaries.

Royal Marines in 2014. This will allow the Trustees to sustain a necessarily increased level of spending for the duration of current operations and beyond and also to support, where appropriate, other charities of direct benefit to our people.

It goes without saying that we seek to support our wounded and injured in any way we can. But we also seek to improve the quality of life of those who face multiple tours in high threat environments and are so very often forgotten. We continue this support long after our people have severed their formal links to the Corps. Sadly, we also provide a death grant to the next of kin of any member of the Corps who has died in service â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 135 since 2001 of whom 70 have died on operations.

We are absolutely delighted to be working with the Medics Rugby Challenge again in 2011. We are especially pleased to learn that the organisers intend that this marvellous event becomes an annual fixture, scheduled each year on the last Tuesday before Remembrance Day. Put Tuesday 6 Nov 2012 in your diaries now!

The key driver for the current campaign is that, quite simply, demand is growing and Trustees need to ensure that we can meet our commitments in the longer term, particularly at a time when the first of our most seriously wounded personnel begin their transition back into civilian life.

Chairman RMCTF Campaign Board

By giving to the RMCTF, donors are empowering the Trustees to use the money given wisely, to meet any of the purposes of the wider charity and, crucially, at the point of greatest need at the time - the RMCTF will help when others cannot. The Trustees of the RMCTF have set themselves the challenge of raising ÂŁ6,000,000 by the 350th anniversary of the

We hope you have a great evening and many thanks for your support! Simon Hill

THE FIGHT DOESN’T STOP WHEN THEY COME HOME

The Royal Marines face dangers and challenges most people can’t even imagine. Courage and self-reliance in the face of adversity are part of the Commando spirit. But sometimes, they’re not enough. That’s when we need your help. The Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund supports Royal Marines when they are deployed on operations; when they are wounded in combat and when recovering from the stresses of the battlefield. The Fund continues to support them when they leave the Corps and also provides for the families of those who lose their lives. As they return from their tenth deployment in Afghanistan, we need your support more than ever. Please don’t walk away, donate now.

Donate now text ‘HOME64 £5’ to 70070* or visit rmctf.org.uk/donate *This service will make a one-off £5 donation to the RMCTF, to donate another amount, replace £5 with £1, £2, £3, £4 or £10. The Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund is an Incorporated Registered Charity No. 1134205, Registered office: RM Corps Secretariat, Building 32, HMS EXCELLENT, Whale Island, Portsmouth PO2 8ER

Hasler Company Hasler Coy has been running for over 2 years now, fully embedded and taking full advantage of the Devonport Naval Base, HMS Drake. During this period, 94 ranks have been assigned to Hasler Coy, 18 of them have since been discharged from the Corps on medical grounds and 4 have been returned to unit. The remaining 72 consist of men injured during combat operations, recovering from long term illnesses and other non-combat related injures.

The criteria for being assigned to Hasler is very clear. Only men who have complex injuries or long term illnesses which means they will go before a Naval Service Medical board of Survey (NSMBOS) are assigned. However, it should be noted that joining Hasler Coy does not mean the man will be discharged as the priority of Hasler Coy, where possible, is to return the man to duty. It should also be noted that attending the NSMBOS does not mean discharge as recommendations by specialists or Medical Officers as well as an individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personnel statement are all taken into consideration, these are then presented to the board for consideration. The board can then make a fully informed decision whether to return the individual to the board at a later date, award

a different med category in order to return to work. The main criteria to remain within the Corps, being whether a man can have gainful worthwhile employment and attend at least a restricted command course. The company is well staffed with experienced well qualified Royal Marines, who can provide the relevant bespoke rehabilitation and training programme for each individual assigned. Hasler is all about Royal looking after Royal and everyone on the team is a volunteer, selected to ensure each man gets the most out of his time in the Company. However, the Company does accept people from the Royal Navy, Army and Air Force. The Company HQ includes the Officer Commanding who is a Major, the Company Sergeant Major, a WO2 Welfare Officer, the CQMS (CSgt), Transport Coordinator CSgt, Cpl D2, a marine driver, RM Medical Assistant and Company Clerk. There are Subject Matter Experts (SME) which include a Fortitude Senior who is a WO2, who organises all the Adventure Training and Adaptive Sport, the Charity and Events Co-ordinator who is also a WO2. He is the link between Hasler Company and all the outside agencies such as H4H, RMCTF, RBL, RMA and many more, including a plethora of ex-bootnecks who just want to offer assistance. These offers can take the form of AT weekends, sports event tickets, boat trips, large and small donations to fund various activities, courses and purchasing items to help our men. The Employment Coordinator who is a CSgt, is responsible for finding suitable temporary or permanent work placements within the Corps or in the civilian world, he also coordinates the improvement of education qualifications, with our own

Hasler Company The Frontline Soldier education department in HMS Drake or University and College placements. We have 2 Tps, Ajax and Lumsden, each troop has a Troop Commander (WO2), Troop Sergeant, Exercise Remedial Instructor (ERI) Sergeant and ERI CPL. At present we still need 1 Tp Sgt , all the other staff are already at Hasler or assigned to join in the future. We have our own dedicated doctors, physiotherapists and mental health nurses, 2 of each employed to work at HMS Drake and to cope with the extra work load Hasler Company has brought to the Naval Base. Within the last year some of Hasler Company have gained employment placements as site managers with national construction companies, started apprenticeships with civil engineering companies, worked on various projects with young disadvantaged people, been accepted to start training with high profile Maritime Ops Companies, offered employment in the Offshore Health and Safety industry, placements at managerial level with London based companies, providing motivational training to sportsmen and teams and teaching fellow wounded to ride cowboy style in Scotland. There are also 4 marines in full time education at Universities in Plymouth and Manchester and colleges in Swindon and Cornwall. They are studying to enter the teaching industry, graphic designs and adventure training.

Sport is another very important aid to rehabilitation and to get the competitive spirit going, members of the company have competed in Golf tournaments, downhill mountain bike racing, football, adaptive skiing (with 2 men selected for the GB Para Olympic training squad) and 4 have attended the Para Olympic trials and in all sports. We also sent a couple of lads to Old Trafford to meet the team and present medals. We now have our own page on RNCOM and I urge all readers to visit this site and read the posts from family and friends, as well as photos from various activities mentioned previously. The role of Hasler Company and what the company can offer the men assigned is briefed to all Command, YO and the RSM courses. This is to ensure the information is being passed to the men at all levels, and hopefully reassure individuals that if â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;shit happens â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;, it is not the end of the world and help for the man and his family will be provided.

Over the last year, members of the company have travelled to Bavaria, Gibraltar, the Himalayas, Scotland, Wales and Cornwall, conducting adventure training activities ranging from mountaineering, mountain biking, white water rafting, kayaking, gliding, climbing and trekking.

Peninsula Medical School The Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry is very pleased to support the annual Medics Rugby Challenge. It is for a superb cause and also hugely enjoyable. We hope you will be generous in support of the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund.

Defence Hospital Unit with Military Medical Staff embedded in the hospital medical and nursing teams. As a result, we are all very aware of the challenges and sacrifices our Armed Forces make. In fact, patients in Plymouth benefit from the partnership because the lessons learnt in the military about the care of trauma victims have now been applied to civilian practice. A major feature is how team members collaborate and communicate with each other. We hope you all have enjoyable evening. Whatever the result of the rugby match, the winners will be the servicemen and women who are continuing their daily fight to regain their health and joie-devivre.

The Peninsula Medical School (PMS) is relatively new, having started only 9 years ago. This year we were 7th (of 30) in The Times League Tables and we are proud of our progress. In the National Students Survey of our final year students, we ranked 4th. In PMS we focus strongly on teamwork as most modern medicine relies on complementary skills and it is only through all members pulling together that the best results are obtained. In the Plymouth locality, Derriford Hospital provides clinical training to medical students especially in Years 3 to 5. This hospital has a Ministry of

Adrian Copplestone Associate Dean (Plymouth Locality) Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry

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Peninsula Medical School RFC The Peninsula RFC was founded back in 2003 in Rowancroft (St Luke’s Campus, Exeter) by a couple of like-minded, rugby-playing medical students. Since its inception the team (the Squirrels) has become well known in medical circles, winning the NAMS (National Association of Medical Schools) plate in 2007 and 2010, losing closely in extra time in the NAMS cup in extra time in 2008, whilst falling last season to Southampton at the semi-final stage.

This year sees the third Medics Rugby Challenge (MRC) – the first was a draw, the second a win for the medics at 12:5 Ð so who knows what this year will bring! This challenge is enjoyed by all players who are spurred on by the very reason that it is raising funds for a great cause Ð one which is so close to home in the Peninsula. With the PRFC, our students are building their own history of which they can be very proud, not only with the MRC, but by staging the Annual Alumni Trivarsity match at the end of each season. We hope that you enjoy this, the third annual match. Maybe it will inspire you to come and play rugby Ð you will be most welcome!

In the 2010/11 season the one team became two as increasing numbers of students wanted to come and play rugby, thus allowing for an additional team (the Beavers). As well as playing the NAMS competition it has allowed the Club to field often two teams each Saturday afternoon. The PRFC is now an integral part of the Plymouth Combination and Cornwall Merit table, playing in the Lockie and Ellis Cup as well as the Cornwall Clubs Cup which they won in 2010/11. This allows for all standards of rugby and is a great way for the students to be ambassadors for the PCMD in the community.

Professor Andy Demaine PRFC Director of Sport

T: 01752 707345 E: info@ppsclinic.co.uk www.ppsclinic.co.uk

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Royal Marines Squad Cpl (Perry) Mason Position: 1 Unit: 40 CDO RM Height: Weight: 110kg Home: Portsmouth

Mne (John) Hudson Position: 5 Unit: CDO LOG REGT RM Height: Weight: Home: South Africa

Cpl (Matt) Maddocks Position: 9 Unit: Height: Weight: Home:

Mne (Josh) Blackburn Position: 13 Unit: CTCRM Height: Weight: 95kg Home: Portsmouth

Mne (Theo) Theophanipes Position: 17 Unit: 30 CDO IX GP Height: Weight: 100kg Home: Cardiff

Sgt Taff Williams Team Manager Coach

Lcpl (Kai) Stevenson Position: 2 Unit: CTCRM Height: 1.70m Weight: 90kg Home: Newcastle

Position:……13…… Rank and Name:…Mne Vuetaki….….… Height:.…183…… Coach Weight:……102…… Unit:…42 Cdo RM…..……………… Team Manager Maj Steve Melbourne DOB:………06/0 KnownHeadAs:..Leni…………..……..............… Coach Rank and Name:……Maj M Home Town:…………O RankPosition:…3……..……………………… and Name:…Sgt Williams...….……… Unit:………RM Height:.…190…………….…………… Known As:…………St Unit:…Cdo Log Regt RM………… Rank a Weight:……112………………….…… Known As:……Taff..Position:………Hea …..………………… Wing Prop DOB:………04/03/80………..…… Position:……Team Manager.………… Home Town:……Suva HomeFiji……..…...…… Town:…………… Rank and Name:…Mne L/Cpl (Buckers) Buckley Cpl (John) Holliday HomePosition: Town:…………Swansea..………… Manage 3 4 Name:…LC Rank Position: and Unit:…42 Cdo R Unit: 42 CDO RM Height: 1.82m Weight: 105kg Home: Wirral

Unit: 6 ASRM

Height:Unit:………4 Known As:... Pikey…… Weight: 106kg Centre Position:…13……..… Home: Lancaster Known As:. Bucker N Height:.…172…… Position:…1…… Rank and Name:…Mne Raviuatita….……… Weight:……80.…… Team Manager Cdo RM ……..……………… Mne (Chris) Stannon Cpl (Gaz) Evans Height:.…18 CplUnit:…42 (Val) Valmei DOB:………16/0 Rank an Position: 6 Position: 8 Position: 7 Prop Known As:....Omah..………..……..............… Unit: 42 CDO RM Unit: 539 ASRM Unit: CDO LOG REGT RM Weight:……1 Home Town:……Newca U Height: 1.86m Height: 1.83m Height: Rank and Name:…Sgt W Position:…12……..……………………… Weight: Weight: 92kg Weight: 105kg DOB:…… Known Rank and Name:…Mne Lyons…..….…………… Home: Fiji Home: Plymouth Home: Unit:…Cdo London Log Height:.…183…………….…………… Posit Unit:…42 Cdo RM…………………… Home Town:…… Known As:……Taff.. … Weight:……95………………….…… Wing He Known As:... Joe………..……..............…… Position:……Team DOB:………02/03/88………..…… Cpl (Loz) Blackburn Cpl (Bomber) Mills Mne (Lewi) Byrnand Wei Position:…1……..………………………… Home Town:………….Suva Position: 10 Position: 12 Fiji…...…… Position: 11 Rank anD Rank and Name:…Mne By Unit: RM POOLE Unit: 30 CDO IX GP Unit: FPGRM Height:.…186…………….…………… Home Town:…………S Height: Height: 1.83m Height: 1.80m Unit:…FPGRM…… Home T Weight: 90kg Weight: 102kg Weight: 89kg Weight:……94………………….…… Home: Portsmouth Oswestry Home: Ipswich Known Home: As:…. ndLewi..……… K DOB:………20/11/87………..……… 2Medical RowSc st Position:…11……..… Royal Marines 1 XV v Wing Home Town:……Southend-on-Sea.……… Height:.…180……

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Cpl (Ben) Wadham Cpl (Scotty) Mills Weight:……89…… Rank Position: 15 Position: 16 and Name: Rank and Name:…Mne Mclaren…..….……… LOG REGT RM Unit: CTCRM Unit: CDO DOB:………27/0 Prop Unit:…42 Height: Unit:…Cdo Log RegtHeight: RM……………… Hooker Rank and C N Weight: Weight: 84kg Home Town:……Ipswic Known As:... Will..………..……..............… Home: Home: HillingdonAs:... Known Tim Unit:… Prop Ho Rank andEvansName:…Mne Position:…14……..……………………… Rank and Name:……Capt Jones……… KnownLyon As:. Position:…4…… Cdo RM Height:.…183…………….…………… Unit:………LandUnit:…42 Warfare School… Posit Height:.…18 Rank and Name:… Mne (Mark) Owen Mne (Paddy) O’Gorman Capt (Russ) Sayer Known As:... Joe……… Weight:……85.………………….…… Known As:…………Teg..………………… He Position: 20 Position: 18 Position: 19 Weight:…… Unit: CTCRM Unit: SEME BORDON Unit: CTCRM Unit:…Cdo Lo Position:…1……..…… DOB:………27/08/88………..…… Position:………2…………..…………… Wei Height: 1.70m Height: Height: 1.81m Height:.…186…… Weight: DOB:…… Weight: 76kg Weight: 102kg Known As:... Paddy.D Home Town:……Canterbury….…...…… Height:.…170…………….…………… Home: Home: Whitstable Home: Weight:……94…… Middlesbrough Home Town:…… Position:…1… Weight:……95………………….…… Home T Ra DOB:………20/1 st DOB:………01/10/80………..……… Height:.…1 Royal Marines 1 XV Home Town:……Southe Mne (Yogi) Taylor Mne (Spoony) Taylor Home Town:……………Bristol..…………… Weight:……

Mne (Will) Mclaren Position: 14 Unit: CDO LOG REGT RM Height: 1.83m Weight: 85kg Home: Canterbury

Position: 21 Unit: CTCRM Height: Weight: 90kg Home: London

Position: 22 Unit: CTCRM Height: Weight: 88kg Home: Abergavenny

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Rank and Nam

Medics Rugby Challenge

Peninsula Medical School

Royal Marines 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Cpl (Ben) Wadham Mne (will) Mclaren Mne (Josh) Blackburn Cpl (Bomber) Mills Mne (Lewi) Byrnand Cpl (Loz) Blackburn Cpl (Matt) Maddocks Cpl (Perry) Mason Lcpl (Kai) Stevenson Lcpl (Buckers) Buckley Cpl (John) Holliday Cpl (John) Hudson Mne (Chris) Stanon Cpl (Val) Valmei Cpl (Gaz) Evans

Cpl (Scotty) Mills 16 17 Mne (Theo) Theophanipes Mne (Mark) Owen 18 19 Cpl (Paddy) O’Gorman Capt (Russ) Sayer 20 Mne (Yogi) Taylor 21 22 Mne (Spoony) Spooner

Referee Luke Pearce

FULL BACK WING CENTRE CENTRE WING FLY HALF SCRUM HALF PROP HOOKER PROP LOCK LOCK FLANKER FLANKER No. 8 REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS

Assistant Ref 1 Andy Kemp

Peter Rimmer Henry Daniels Sam Rimmer Oliver Stanbridge Alex Stean Peter Foley Morgan O’Flaherty Sean Heagney Karl Higgingson George Barnes Mike Turner Kyle Gallimore Charlie Greet Emmanual Egbase Alexander Dryden

15 14 13 12 11 10 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Elliot Haines Daniel Weston Toby Murray Alistair Ward Charie Kopec George Davies John Hudson

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Assistant Ref 2 Nigel Higginson

Match Medical Staff Dr Penny Atkinson Alison Morton Andy Massocchi

PMS Squad Sean Heagney Position: 1 DOB: 26/02/89 Height: 1.78m Weight: 86kg Home: London

Kyle Gallimore Position: 5 DOB: 05/03/90 Height: 1.94m Weight: 98kg Home: Rutland

Morgan Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Flaherty Position: 9 DOB: 05/05/92 Height: 1.70m Weight: 71kg Home: W. Malling

Anthony Lambert President

Karl Higgingson Position: 2 DOB: 07/03/89 Height: 1.77m Weight: 84kg Home: Poynton

Charlie Greet Position: 6 DOB: 19/04/88 Height: 1.82m Weight: 86kg Home: Newmarket

Peter Foley Position: 10 DOB: 22/11/86 Height: 1.79m Weight: 83kg Home: Rep of Ireland

Andy Domaine Director of Sport

George Barnes Position: 3 DOB: 01/07/92 Height: 1.75m Weight: 88kg Home: Bishop Storford

Mike Turner Position: 4 DOB: 24/09/85 Height: 1.87m Weight: 99kg Home: Leicester

Emmanuel Egbase Position: 7 DOB: 12/05/87 Height: 1.76m Weight: 88kg Home: Bishop Storford

Alex Dryden Position: 8 DOB: 02/05/88 Height: 1.85m Weight: 97kg Home: Andover

Alex Stean Position: 11 DOB: 24/11/91 Height: 1.78m Weight: 78kg Home: Lostwithiel

Oliver Stanbridge Position: 12 DOB: 08/03/90 Height: 1.82m Weight: 84kg Home: Bristol

Sam Rimmer Position: 13 DOB: 08/11/86 Height: 1.85m Weight: 93kg Home: Cheltenham

Henry Daniels Position: 14 DOB: 30/09/89 Height: 1.78m Weight: 80kg Home: Winchester

Peter Rimmer Position: 15 DOB: 05/04/89 Height: 1.83m Weight: 81kg Home: Cheltenham

Elliot Haines Position: 16 DOB: 13/11/92 Height: 1.78m Weight: 91kg Home: Oxford

Daniel Weston Position: 17 DOB: 20/10/89 Height: 1.88m Weight: 133kg Home: Market Harborough

Toby Murray Position: 18 DOB: 05/02/89 Height: 1.87m Weight: 86kg Home: Edinbrugh

Alistair Ward Position: 19 DOB: 15/02/89 Height: 1.80m Weight: 87kg Home: Brighton

Charlie Kopec Position: 20 DOB: 17/03/92 Height: 1.80m Weight: 85kg Home: London

George Davies Position: 21 DOB: 18/10/87 Height: 1.81m Weight: 82kg Home: Bridgend

John Hudson Position: 22 DOB: 21/04/85 Height: 1.70m Weight: 70kg Home: London

Sean Boyle - Lead Coach

Devonport Services Under 16 Squad Kyle White Position: 1 Age 15 Height: 1.95m Weight: 102kg

Joe Daley Position: 2 Age 16 Height: 1.72m Weight: 84kg

Callum Kirby Position: 5 Age 15 Height: 1.90m Weight: 96kg

Sam Mather Position: 6 Age 15 Height: 1.83m Weight: 86kg

Luke Stannard Position: 9 Age 15 Height: 1.70m Weight: 75kg

Conner Humphries Position: 13 Age 16 Height: 1.75m Weight: 80kg

Daryl Pinnegar Position: No. 17 Age 15 Height: 1.72m Weight: 80kg

Cameron Boyle Position: 10 Age 15 Height: 1.75 Weight: 70kg

Corey Price Position: 14 Age 15 Height: 1.75m Weight: 75kg

Macauley Martin Position: 3 Age 16 Height: 1.72m Weight: 79kg

Andy Pond Position: 4 Age 16 Height: 1.85m Weight: 90kg

Ben Singer Position: 7 Age 15 Height: 1.80 Weight: 77kg

Tyler Busfield Position: 8 Age 16 Height: 1.83 Weight: 90kg

Jack Welch Position: 11 Age 16 Height: 1.77m Weight: 70kg

Will Turner (Capt.) Position: 12 Age 15 Height: 1.72m Weight: 86kg

Matt Chilvers Position: 15 Age 15 Height: 1.82 Weight: 83kg

Alex Bailey Position: No. 18 Age 15 Height: 1.70m Weight: 73kg

Alex Pope Position: No. 19 Age 15 Height: 1.77m Weight: 77kg

Tim Weale Position: No. 21 Age 15 Height: 1.77m Weight: 78kg

Scott Worthing Position: No. 22 Age ?? Height: Weight:

James Head Position: No. 16 Age 15 Height: 1.75m Weight: 91kg

Nick Printer Position: No. 20 Age 15 Height: 1.72m Weight: 70kg

The Youth Match

Devonport Services RFC u16’s

Ivybridge RFC u16’s 15 Dan Dawe FULL BACK 14 Ashley Mudge WING 13 Billy Pinkus CENTRE 12 Jacob Kingscott CENTRE 11 James Sherwood WING 10 Sam Tuckett FLY HALF 9 Matt (Watsy) Watts SCRUM HALF 1 Mike Delbridge PROP 2 Matt Pinhey HOOKER 3 Josh (Skinny) O’Hare PROP 4 Billy (Gav) Luckham LOCK 5 Stuart Grannum LOCK 6 Joe Walker FLANKER 7 Ryan (Rhino) Edmunds FLANKER 8 Harvey Rogers No. 8 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Robert Forward Zak Hedges Lucas Brown Harri watson Nick Carter Lawrence Ellerton Henry Mcready

Referee Neil Garrett

REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS REPLACEMENTS

Assistant Ref 1 Charlie Osborne

Matt Chilvers Corey Price Conner Humphries Will Turner (Capt.) Jack Welch Cameron Boyle Luke Stannard Kyle White Joe Daley Macauley Martin Andy Pond Callum Kirby Sam Mather Ben Singer Tyler Busfield

15 14 13 12 11 10 9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

James Head Daryl Pinnegar Alex Bailey Alex Pope Nick Printer Tim Weale Scott Worthing

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Assistant Ref 2 Russ Taylor

Match Medical Staff Dr Penny Atkinson Alison Morton

Mick Pinhey - Coach

Ivybridge Under 16 Squad Mike Delbridge Position: 1 Age 15 Height: 5ft 11ins Weight: 14st 11lbs

Matt Pinhey Position: 2 Age 15 Height: 5ft 9ins Weight: 11st 12lbs

Stuart Grannum Position: 5 Age 15 Height: 4ft Weight: 7st

Joe Walker Position: 6 Age 15 Height: 5ft 10ins Weight: 12st

Matt (Watsy) Watts Position: 9 Age 15 Height: 4ft Weight: 6st soaking wet

Sam Tuckett Position: 10 Age 16 Height: 6ft Weight: 12st

Billy Pinkus Position: 13 Age 25 Height: 6ft Weight: 13st

Ashley Mudge Position: 14 Age 15 Height: 6ft 1in Weight: 12st

Zac Hedges Position: 17 Age 15 Height: 5ft 11ins Weight: 12st

Lucas Brown Position: 18 Age 16 Height: 4ft 10ins Weight: 16st

Lawerence Ellerton Position: 21 Age 15 Height: 5ft Weight: 6st

Josh Skinny Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hare Position: 3 Age 15 Height: 6ft 3ins Weight: 20st

Billy (Gav) Luckham Position: 4 Age 16 Height: 6ft Weight: 11st 2lbs

Ryan (Rhino) Edmunds Position: 7 Age 16 Height: 6ft Weight: 11st

Harvey Rogers Position: 8 Age 15 Height: 5ft 10ins Weight: 13st

James Sherwood Position: 11 Age 15 Height: 5ft 7ins Weight: 10st

Dan Dawe Position: 15 Age 16 Height: 5ft 11ins Weight: 10st 5lbs

Harri Watson Position: 19 Age 15 Height: 6ft Weight: 11st

Henry McCreedy Position: 22 Age 15 Height: 5ft 10ins Weight: 11st

Jacob Kingscott Position: 12 Age 15 Height: 6ft 6ins Weight: 18st

Robert Forward Position: 16 Age 15 Height: 5ft 11ins Weight: 11st

Nick Carter Position: 20 Age 16 Height: 6ft 1ins Weight: 12st

Rugby Action

Medical Officers on the Ground Having recently returned from Afghanistan with 42 Commando Royal Marines, I can honestly say serving with Ă&#x201D; RoyalĂ&#x2022; and with the Royal Navy Medics who support them on operations, is one of the greatest privileges a Military doctor can experience. The Commando Spirit pervades everything they do with courage, determination, unselfishness, and cheerfulness in the face of adversity always in abundance through the good times, as well as the bad. From the moment a Royal Marine or sailor is injured, the care provided to him by both his non-medical and medical colleagues is first class, with all involved being rightly praised for their life saving interventions in the most challenging of conditions. But not all injuries are sustained in the heat of battle, nor is bravery only required when facing the threat of improvised explosives devices or incoming rounds. The real battle often begins at home and the courage injured Royal Marines and Royal Navy sailors show when faced with life changing injuries never fails to humble me. The assistance provided by the service charities helps these remarkable men and women through challenging times and by coming to the match tonight you are contributing directly to this effort. Thank you! its not often you can make a difference with a pint in hand! Surgeon Lieutenant Jonathan Ritson Unit Medical Officer 42 Cdo RM

Given only 2 weeks notice, deploying on Op HERRICK 14 was a bit of a shock to the system. Thankfully I had spent the previous year working in the rear party at 40 Cdo RM, whilst they were deployed on HERRICK 12 and I had been involved in their subsequent regeneration and the rehabilitation of the injured in Termoli Troop. This year had given me valuable insight into the latter stages of the rehabilitation pathway. Now, deploying to the front line, I had absolute confidence in the quality of the care and support offered to casualties, as soon as we could get them back to the UK. After pre-deployment training, I found myself in Camp Bastion completing theatre specific training there. I filled my medical bergan with everything I needed from the Joint Force Medical Group stores and finally moved out to where I felt I could make a difference.

Medical Officers on the Ground For most of my tour I was based at the 42 Cdo M Company HQ, where there was a relatively well-stocked medical centre. Working with me was a Royal Navy Leading Medical Assistant who had previously deployed to Afghanistan on HERRICK 9 and her experience was invaluable throughout the tour. From our Company HQ we supported a number of checkpoints and patrolling groups, each with at least one Royal Navy or Royal Marines Medical Assistant (MA) embedded with them.

At the point of wounding, immediate â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;buddy buddyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; care is provided by Royal Marines with excellent levels of first aid training, often whilst still in a contact. The MAs out on the ground are then able to provide immediate trauma care that is nothing short of exceptional. It is both physically and emotionally draining for all involved but these MAs have more major trauma experience than almost any other group in the UK and remain undaunted by the demands placed upon them. Due to the well rehearsed aeromedical evacuation from the ground, the MO is not always involved in the immediate care of these casualties. Our main input, however,

is to reassure all involved that the treatment they gave on the ground to the casualty, under great pressure and sometimes heavy fire, was spot on and their mate will now be getting the best medical care in the world, both back at Bastion and in the UK. Another major role of the MOs on the ground is to ensure the lads in their location remain fighting fit. Returning them to duty when they develop minor injuries, illnesses and ailments, that might otherwise have them nonoperational for a few days, is of paramount importance. In addition to the day to day medical care of our own troops, medical aid was provided to the local population and Afghan National Security Force personnel, when necessary. Some time was spent training the Afghan National Army, with whom we shared a base. It was important that we used this close relationship to mentor and develop them in the provision immediate first aid and trauma care skills. They soon became confident in applying tourniquets, bandages and undertaking other emergency treatments. In general, Op HERRICK 14 was both a challenging and a rewarding experience. My overriding memory is of admiration for the job that is done medically by both the Royal Marines and the MAs on the ground. I would be proud if I, as a doctor, could produce the level of care they do, under fire and on a daily basis. The more we can do to support the medics as well as the injured lads the better. Surgeon Lieutenant Jonathan Evans Medical Officer

From Medic to Patient When I was lying on my back, after having an x-fix drilled into my pelvis, I managed to drag myself into a wheel chair and the first thing I did was check on my oppos and their medical charts. The reason for this is simple, as I told the Commandant General (CG), the part of me that’s a Medical Assistant (MA) was not residing in my foot at the moment of the blast. I am a medic and will have that mentality until the day I die. But, the tables have turned. I am now in a position where I have to rely on someone elseÕ s medical training in order to recover. In this fancy little twist that fate has dealt me lies the problem. I am the worst patient in the world. The reason being, I challenge every little thought that comes into a consultant’s (and nurse’s) head. I know enough to sound like I know what I am talking about and IÕ ve got the confidence of a Royal Marine (which means that confidence oozes out of me naturally). So, when a diagnosis is given, I am the first person to raise a hand and say Ò Are you sure?Ó Consultants say that they like it and that it is important that the patient challenges everything. I can see deep down, however, that they are probably a little pissed off that someone is doubting the years of experience they have brought to the table (and rightly so, as I would feel the same way). At the end of the day, it’s my health I am concerned with, not necessarily the feeling of the many doctors who have had their hands on me.

From Medic to Patient They also have a difficult time bluffing me. I know where to look for the answers that I need. So, for questions like “Can I have a drink tonight?Ó and Ò Should I stay off my prosthetic?” the answers can be found, you just need to know where to look. It also gives you an idea of what are the important subjects and what are not (like drinking is not important but knowing when to stay off your limb is). So armed with this knowledge, I am a nightmare!

and as often as they want, while I can. I no longer have access to their medical files that belong to them and I no longer have the ability to prescribe drugs (under the supervision of the MO of course), but I do have a little bit of medicine that is not quantifiable - morale. I am also with them all of the time, on the same road to recovery. So, as often as possible, I deal out morale to the brave men on this pathway and to be fair, we have a pretty good laugh - sometimes! Ok, sure! I don’t miss the piles and piles of medical paperwork and the countless issues you can find wrapped in red clinical governance tape but I feel the need to take care of the men that are in this place with me. Everyone else needs to remember that as only the other day I was their medic and was there for them. I don’t find it easy to have this taken away from me, even though I know that I need the very care I used to provide! Infact, for the men that are brave enough to walk the road to recovery with me, I will treat and advise as much

So how does it feel to be on the receiving end of the medical care I once so innocently inflicted on others? I feel about the same. I have my patients (my mates) and I have my medicine (morale) and I have a job to do. Now that my priorities have changed, I am more than happy to continue my job - right where I left off. Corporal Cass Little Medical Assistant

Through My Eyes While fighting for my country I was in injured in Afghanistan by an IED. While slowly recovering, I am now wondering whether my country will look after me? Will this country keep an eye out for me in years to come? Even though my injuries aren’t as bad as some? I may have been fortunate enough to not have become an amputee, But all injuries are different and they all affect people differently. It’s been six months since being blown up and I still can’t walk, Therefore sometimes the only thing left for me to do is simply talk. Talk about what it’s like to have this huge cage stuck on my leg, Every check up in Birmingham “When is this cage coming off ?” I beg!! It’s looking like another year before I will be able to walk without a stick, It’s almost like laying the foundations for my life again, brick by brick. It’s a year of my life lost were I am supposed to be having so much fun. Instead though I’m being told that I will never ever be able to run. Being told you will never be able to run ever again at twenty years of age... Oh and by the way, for the next twelve months you will be required to wear this cage! Something so simple like getting a shower Is now taking me the best part of an hour. And that’s just the injuries on my right leg below the knee. I would love to say they’re the only injures I have, however, I would have to disagree. To make things a little more complicated, there’s a chunk missing out of my right thigh. I can’t help looking down at my scared body sometimes thinking ‘Why?’ So thanks to my right thigh missing what can only be described as a chunk, It may be some time until am able to stand at the bar, free of support, getting drunk. So away from my right leg and on to my left foot, big toe. Some shrapnel has damaged the nerves and whether it will work again, they don’t know. It’s a good job I don’t really care about what people say or think Because I have got so many scars, people stare so much I sometimes have to remind them to blink.

Scars on both my forearms now visible for the world to see, I suppose now I have accepted them, as a new part of me. I’m lucky really that my injuries to my upper body don’t limit me too much. The scars almost feel like normal, if you were to touch. But it’s the scars that people can’t see that I am more worried about. The scars in my head that make me want to scream and shout! The scars and memories that sometimes wake me up at night. Sometimes so angry, all I want to do is fight. Fighting and anger I should have got out the way in Cyprus decompression, But I never got to do that, so now here is a question… What will happen to someone like me whose tour of Afghan is lasting for two years? Will they take into account all my tears and fears? When the day comes, when all this fighting and anger wants to come out, When I lose my rag and scream and shout, When I flip the lid and lose control, Punch by punch I am digging myself a deeper hole. But I sincerely hope that day doesn’t come, So every night I pray to my Mum And ask her to take care of me, like so many times before, Because I know she’s the one who saved me that day, of that I’m sure. Now I don’t want or need your pity. Infact I am doing quite well, As I have my loved ones around me and there no real need to dwell. As this is just a poem to say how I feel inside And as for the minute I am taking things in my stride. But there are a lot of lads, who are not as open as me, And I can’t see them all turning to poetry! So watch this space, as I predict A lot more anger and pain coming from this ongoing conflict. Marine Andy Grant, 21 Liverpool

The Big Decision Some of the easier questions I have been faced with while in the Corps sounded more to the tune of Ô What time are we ashore tonight?Õ So it is safe to say, deciding to have my leg amputated required some thought... I had originally had a huge external cage on my leg, when I was first injured, in the hope my leg would make a good enough recovery for me to carry on with life as I knew it before I was blown up by an IED. To be fair, the cage was horrendous, but it did the job and after 14 months of putting up with wearing baggy tracksuit bottoms and shorts 24/7, the cage had done its job and was removed. The time had arrived to see how functional my leg would be. My leg was still badly swollen and the nerve damaged had not recovered to my ankle and toes. I had pretty much no movement in my ankle and it hurt – a lot! That said, I was hobbling around getting by as best as I could. All things considered and for a while, I was content with how things were going. However, after spending time at Headley Court and seeing other lads cracking on better with prosthetic legs than I was with my own leg, my view started to change. One of the final straws was when I asked a fellow Royal, who had lost an arm and a leg, that if he had the chance to swop his prosthetic leg for my smashed up leg would he? His response, once he had stopped laughing, made my mind up for me!

After getting the relevant scans done, talking through the surgery with my surgeon alone and with my Dad, the 25th November was the date set for ‘the chopÕ . To say I was scared would be a huge understatement. It wasnÕ t as if there was any going back. My biggest fear was if I was making the right choice.

The Big Decision The run up to having my leg amputated was extremely difficult. There were lots of disagreements with my Dad, who at first didnÕ t agree with me having my leg amputated. It would be hard for any parent to see their son have to make the decision I had to make. So obviously, emotions were running high as to what the right decision was. I have an extremely strong relationship with my Dad, so it was important to have him on my side. This just added to how hard the choice was to come by.

ItÕ s nearly a year after my operation and nearly 3 years after my initial injury. I am able to walk around all day pain free and actually feel like I have my life back again. It has been a hard few years but going through with the amputation was definatly the right choice and I am now looking forward to the future.

Thank fully, as the date drew nearer, it was obvious to me that it was just another chapter in my life. Not quite so simple for my whole family, who would also have to deal with what was about to happen to me and get over it. That is exactly what happened on the 25th November 2010. However, five days later, when I was discharged home from hospital with a box of paracetomol after the Ô Butcher of BastionÕ had done his handy work, there was a huge sigh of relief that all was going well. By January 2011, I was back at Headley Court. This time, however, I was making huge strides compared to when I had my badly injured leg. In a matter of weeks I was running and even playing football again. At the moment I can do 18 Ô keep me upsÕ . Not as many as I could do with two legs, but I am getting there. This is a huge thing for me and one of the first targets I set myself when I was first injured - to be able to kick a football again.

Marine Andy Grant Hasler Coy

Along the Fairway

Since my injury, I have struggled to find a sport which I could focus my time and energy into. Being from Wigan it was rugby league or nothing in my eyes. How hard could it be whacking a ball around a course? I know people with a bus pass that play golf! In Hasler Company, most people cannot do the same sport they loved doing before being injured. The On Course Foundation has allowed a number of us to play golf together. Golf is a true leveller because of the way the handicap system works. It keeps all players as competitive as ever with everybody having an equal chance of winning, regardless of their injury or ability. Every Bootneck has a sharp competitive edge and this is clearly evident when we play golf. Tempers often rise and thenÉ ..the banter will start! Every game is eventful and enjoyable and my only regret is that I didn’t start playing years ago. Marine Jack Smith

After receiving serious injuries to both my legs and an arm, I struggled to find a sport that I enjoyed. I was a die-hard Football fan and played whenever I could. I joined Hasler Company and discovered my oppos had taken up golf, which I didn’t fancy, but the afternoons started to get very quiet with most of the lads down at the driving range, so I bit my lip and joined them. Soon I had ‘The Golf Bug’ and the Bootneck banter was flowing again. Thanks largely to the On Course Foundation, golf has become a very popular sport for the ranks of Hasler Company. It has enabled us to reinstall our Bootneck competitive edge and created potential work placements for the injured lads within the Golf and Leisure Industry. One of the best things is that it has enabled us lads to stay in contact, even after our discharge from the Corps. Marine Mark Goddard

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Surf Action In June 2011 ‘Operation Cornish Wave 2Õ was held by Surf Action at Polzeath in North Cornwall. It saw the welcome return of members of Hasler Company and again helped them get back in the sea. Injured in Afghanistan, Marines Nicholas Gibbons (Gibbo) and Jonny Linaker (Bear) returned for their second session with Surf Action, accompanied by Marines Matt Abbott, Martin Jones (Jonah), and Jack Smith. Surf Action Director Rich Emerson stated Ò The surf for the two days at Polzeath could not have been better to get these guys in the water, standing on their boards. Surf Action won the Peoples Millions Big Lottery Fund back in November 2010 and has been able to buy new wetsuits and surfboards for these camps. It has made all the difference to us. ItÕ s always amazing to have these guys come back and join us and see the smiles on their facesÓ . Cornish Wave is another testament to the determination of the injured Royal Marines.

Surfing is not an easy activity and is physically demanding. Each of those who took part showed real commitment and all rode a wave, on one occasion together! The Cornish based charity also operates weekly meetings for combat veterans and their families at Gwithian Beach near St Ives. The Charity is moving from strength to strength and would like to thank the National Lottery, C-Skins Wetsuits, Swell Surfboards, Cornwall Works and Cornwall Community Foundation for all their help in assisting Surf Action, in addition to all the volunteers who support them at each event. We would also like to thank the Royal Marines which have come to Surf Action and Anthony Lambert for his support. For those wanting more information please go to www. surfaction.co.uk. Russ Pierre Director www.surfaction.co.uk

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Operation Cornish Wave In June this year, Doc Lambert invited myself and four other injured bootnecks to Polzeath, Cornwall. For three days we learnt how to surf. We were also there to give the Doc a send-off before he returned again to Afghanistan for his next tour of duty. Arriving late on the Tuesday afternoon, there was no time to surf that day, so in true Marine style we prepared ourselves for what was to come (port, jaegermeister and beer in no particular order). The next day it was down to the beach to meet the guys from Surf Action who teach surfing to combat veterans. They kindly gave their time and knowledge to give us some lessons on standing up, catching waves and general technique.

With the lads full of confidence and thinking we were professional surfers we got in the sea for a massive shock - surfing is hard! After about an hour of drinking seawater (add to port, jaegermeister and beer above â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ed) we were all managing to stand up, which was a great feeling. After two hours everyone was exhausted but couldnĂ&#x2022; t wait to do it again the following day. At the end of the three days we were all standing up confidently, however suffering with a little liver damage! I would like to say a massive thank you to all involved for a fantastic few days.

Cpl Matt Abbott

Operation Cornish Wave

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28/10/2011 16:17