Craftsman Magazine - January 2022 by Official_REME

THE CRAFTSMAN

Magazine of the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers

January 2022

The importance of Professional Registration in the Armed Forces By incoming IET President, Air Marshal Sir Julian Young KBE CB FREng CEng FIET Professional Registration is increasingly important in the Armed Forces and plays a significant part in creating a competent and skilled work force across the UK. Qualifications and associated Continued Professional Development should help bridge the gap between military and civilian trades. Although simply being registered doesn’t guarantee ex-military engineers a job, it could level the playing field and get someone an interview. After a 40-year career in the Royal Air Force (RAF), I’ve always supported people developing themselves further through additional qualifications. The route often is through distance learning, which is hard work in a busy job. However, when you’re dipping into academia and then back into the workplace, the first time you answer a question or write an essay, you are better in your role because you are instantly applying that new knowledge and thinking. I led the team with the MOD and HM Treasury that helped the roll out of the Defence Engineer Registration Scheme (DERS) across different branches within the Armed Forces; the scheme demonstrates clear value in people. The streamlined application process is excellent, and the Professional Engineering Institutions (PEIs) that step forward and take on the work to translate military skills and experience into qualifications will benefit greatly from doing so. I’m proud to be a member of the IET, because when I started campaigning on professionalisation within the RAF some 15 years ago, it was the first PEI to offer a streamlined route to Chartered Engineer (CEng). The IET for me was the RAF’s PEI of choice. Anything that can help streamline both the route of people into a PEI and the payment of fees is a positive. As well as the DERS agreements, the IET is working hard to implement Central Payment Schemes in the Armed Forces. Having been successful with the RAF, with over 1,000 members Professionally Registered, we should be looking to roll Central Payment Schemes out for the other Services as widely as we can, including more companies in industry that already have had a lot of success with it. The IET welcomes engineers and technicians from all backgrounds; if you care about engineering in any or multiple sectors, the IET can be your professional home and has a unique position to fill. We need to be engaging with seniors and Fellows in all engineering organisations to promote the value in their people being Professionally Registered. I’m looking forward to my term as IET President (2021-2022) and follow in the successful steps of all past Presidents. My specific area of focus will be to champion technicians and seek to facilitate the continued growth in their membership. I believe the majority of the ‘missing 3 million’ mentioned in Professor Uff ’s 2017 review of our engineering profession are technicians. We need to understand better what technicians are, what it means to be a technician and then offer them more through membership of the IET.

Find out more about becoming professionally registered by attending our latest webinar: What you will learn: – Beneﬁts of membership and professional registration – Professional registration categories and application process – Our guidance and support

theiet.org/craftsman-magazine The Institution of Engineering and Technology is registered as a Charity in England and Wales (No. 211014) and Scotland (No. SC038698). The Institution of Engineering and Technology, Michael Faraday House, Six Hills Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2AY, United Kingdom.

Eat, sleep, engineer, repeat Julian’s President’s Address will be broadcast live on 14 October 2021 at 1pm BST

theiet.org/presidents-address

Corps Formation: 1 October 1942 Corps Motto: Arte et Marte Corps Patron Saint: St Eligius (Celebrated 1st Sunday in December)

JANUARY 2022

Contents Volume 78 No. 1

FEATURES New Year’s Message from the Corps Colonel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Editor: SSgt Andy Chammings + Corporate Communications Officer RHQ REME, The Prince Philip Barracks, Lyneham, CHIPPENHAM, SN15 4XX  craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk (preferred method)  subscriptions@reme-rhq.org.uk (for changes of address) ( Mil: 95481 4529 Civ: 01249 894529

REME Future Soldier Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Op MAKARA 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 State Ceremonial Public Duties, 4 Armd CS Bn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 MTI Seminar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Telling the Tale of the TDS, BATUK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 2022 MS Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Corps WOs’ and Sgts’ Autumn Dinner Night 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Corps Cross Country Championships 2021 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Corps Netball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Corps Clay Pigeon Shooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Corps Enduro Open Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Junior Leaders Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 REME Association Branch – South Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 REGULARS Guest Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Global Reach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Corps Sporting Fixtures 2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 REME History – First time for Royal Guard Duty for REME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Screwjack No 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Corps Notices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Corps Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

SUBMITTING ARTICLES TEXT: should be submitted in MS Word and name saved as per the article. No formatting, columns, power point etc. Articles to be cleared by CO/OC/EME or appropriate REME CoC, or nominated substitute and should be submitted as soon as possible. PHOTOGRAPHS: MUST be submitted separately, in jpeg format and be at least 500kb preferably 1mb or more. Only photos over 3mb can be considered for the front/back covers and please remember captions. FILESHARE: websites, such as dropbox are ideal for submitting larger files. EMAIL: The ONLY email address which should be used is: craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk. Not MODnet. Please use the article title not ‘Craftsman Article’ as the email title. TIMINGS: The latest submission date is the first day of the month prior to publication. This does not guarantee the article will be published in that specific edition. Births, Engagements, Marriages and Deaths: These will be inserted free to all past and present members of the Corps. Contents: The contents of The Craftsman are strictly copyright and all rights are expressly reserved. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the policy and views, official or otherwise, of the Editor, the Corps or the MOD, therefore no responsibility for these will be accepted. Whilst including an advertisement we are not necessarily endorsing the product and as a result, the publisher and its agents do not accept responsibility for any transaction between the reader and the advertiser. Whilst we take all precautions with regard to advertising, readers are advised to take professional advice before entering into any commitments. Letters concerning reproduction, contributions or any other matter should be addressed to the Editor. © Published by RHQ REME. Funded by The REME Charity. www.remecharity.org. Advertising All communications regarding commercial advertising rates should be made direct to the Editor. Sustainably produced on paper sourced from responsible sources using vegetable based inks. Jamprint Design & Printing Ltd www.jamprint.co.uk info@jamprint.co.uk 01249 823 950 © Crown Copyright

Front Cover: GOC 3(UK) Div Inspecting Cfn Oturi-Tutu, full article on page 16.

General Handling: This publication contains official information and should be treated with discretion.

Before submitting an article you are requested to read the guidelines on the inside front cover 3

Guest Editorial

New Year’s Message from the Corps Colonel, Colonel Jason Phillips ADC

elcome to 2022. I sense it is going to be a great year – an Ashes win Down Under in January and a Men’s Football World Cup triumph in December bookending Platinum Jubilee celebrations, our own Summer Festival of Sport in Lyneham in June and a Women’s Euro 2022 victory on home soil in July. After difficult days under COVID in 2020 and 2021, I am confident that 2022 will be much brighter for all of us, including our Corps.

Now you might think I am being a little too optimistic (and I may be when it comes to the sport) but I do believe we, the REME, have good reason to be upbeat. Driving my positivity are two things: firstly, the bright and talented people throughout the Corps; and secondly the Future Soldier direction that has been set out for us and our part in it. Let me tell you more.

Our People I have now been in post as Colonel REME for 4 months. In that time, I have had the honour to witness soldiers and officers led by 4 Battalion, supported by 3 and 6 Battalion personnel, on parade at Buckingham Palace. I’ve seen some incredibly innovative work and ideas presented by many REME units at the 1 Battalion led Innovation Expo in Catterick. I’ve met exceptionally capable LE and DE commissioning candidates and I have attended a Passing Out Parade at Pirbright where the best recruit from every platoon was a REME soldier. In addition, I have heard stories of ingenuity, compassion and courage relating to our JNCOs who deployed on Op PITTING, I have received first-hand reports of the determination and competence of our people on Op NEWCOMBE and I have had the pleasure of seeing young REME people seemingly win award after award – Apprentice of the Year, Churchill Medals, the lot. We have amazing people in our Corps, the challenge for REME Commanders in 2022, including myself, is to continue to develop and invest in them and give them the opportunity to shine.

Future Soldier Immediately prior to Christmas, I toured the country talking to REME Commanders about Future Soldier. Universally, they recognised that the direction given is very positive for our Corps. Unlike any other cap-badge we have a new unit to form; 9 (Theatre Support) Battalion REME in Aldershot (at IOC by Sep 23). More widely, 7 (Aviation Support) Battalion has a broadened CSS role; there is to be no re-balancing between 1st and 2nd line organisations; and all of our 3 Reserve Battalions have grown to meet a defined warfighting role; which includes a specific task to support first line Army Reserve units. Adding all this up, while Regular Army posts have reduced by 12%, our Corps structures are only down 9% and while the overall size of the Army Reserve hasn’t changed, REME Reserve must grow by 25%. At an organisational level, this means the Corps needs to retain its Regular workforce and grow (rapidly) more Reserves, to deliver the Future Soldier intent. This is genuinely great news for the people of our Corps. Our recruit, commission, contract conversion and promotion quotas will remain healthy in the years to come across all ranks and the Corps’ career offer to you is as full of opportunity as ever. 4 craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk

Colonel REME – Colonel Jason Phillips ADC

Looking Forward Given this backdrop of intelligent, skilled people and clear, positive direction, there is much to look forward to (as well as much to do) in 2022. At formation and unit level, I know there is plenty in the forecast of events to keep the Corps busy, as both soldiers and engineers, reinforcing the expeditionary intent described in Future Soldier. Exs TALIN DAWN (2 of ) and DEFENDER 22, support to the fleet established in Oman, in barracks refurbishment of the SOF, and the in-load of the LATF equipment into Germany to name just a few highlights. Concurrently, there are a number of significant tasks on the Corps HQ radar. As well as working with units to address any

The RHQ REME Team outside the front of Regimental Headquarters, MoD Lyneham

Future Soldier implementation hurdles that arise, we will up the pace on the work already started to remodel our technical training through the REME Trade Training Review and the REME Skills Review. I don’t anticipate this to deliver training change in 2022 but I do hope to have set the conditions for change in 2023. We will be working with DCTT and others to address technical accreditation concerns I know some of you have with specific courses, as well as tackling legacy accreditation issues such as the VM Class One course. And we will build on the great momentum achieved with our Lifting the Decks Mental Health plan which has shone a bright light on this critical issue, got us talking and crucially provided care and respite to those who have come forward.

What I Ask Of You Of course, the Corps HQ does not work in isolation and we always need you to play your part in all we do. The Future Soldier transformation is all of our business, as is the technical training provided to your successors. Beyond that I will ask just two more things of you here. Firstly, that you invest in yourselves and become professionally registered. Externally professional registration is important because it benchmarks your engineering competence and provides us, as Engineers, authority across UK society.

Internally it enables the engineering authority delegation that underpins the delivery of assured Equipment Support capability throughout the Army. The Engineering Professional Recognition Award provides a financial incentive for many of our people to register as Eng Tech and CEng and the Refund of Professional Engineering Body Fees DIN allows Regular personnel to recoup the cost of membership. It’s time to be #professionalengineers. Secondly, I need all of you to challenge unacceptable behaviour whenever you see it. Be an Active bystander, not just when in uniform but out of hours too. By doing so, our culture, our Corps and our Army will be better for everyone in 2022 as well. My message therefore to you is to step forward into this new year with confidence, vigour and optimism. REME is full of exceptional people and, in Future Soldier, the Army has deliberately chosen to invest in us to keep the punch in the Army’s fist for the years ahead. Our job now is to prove that they were right to do so, by continuing to deliver on all operations and concurrently transforming ourselves to meet future challenges, while always being professional and doing the right thing. Who knows, with a fair wind, maybe even Leeds United will win the Cup this year! Arte et Marte.

Before submitting an article you are requested to read the guidelines on the inside front cover 5

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REME FUTURE SOLDIER OVERVIEW REME Battalions

1ST (UK) DIVISION

The Future Soldier announcement marks the beginning of an exciting change to the way the British Army will operate. Significantly the Army has recognised the importance of our role as professional engineers. We are the only cap badge to establish a new Battalion (9 Theatre Support Battalion) and importantly our Reserve Battalions have been structured with a war fighting dependency. 7 Aviation Support Bn will also have a more holistic ES and CSS role, encompassing a greater land dependency within the 1st Aviation Brigade Combat Team. Moving forward all of our Battalions will align directly into the Brigades that they are supporting. Much of this re-subordination and restructure of our units will take place by the end of 2023, with Implementation orders due for release in 2022.

1 Close Support Battalion Current Structure: 278 Future Soldier: 288 (297) *First Figure represents total regular manpower; bracketed figure represents warfighting total. • Re-subordinate to 7th Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team • Will consist of a Forward Coy, a Rear Coy and an Echelon Coy

102 Close Support Battalion Current Structure: 427 (Inc Reg and FTRS) Future Soldier: 587 • Re-subordinate to the 4th Light Brigade Combat Team. • Provide whole Bn at War Fighting Dependency

2 Force Support Battalion Current Structure: 278 Future Soldier: 222 (308) • Remain aligned to 102 Operational Sustainment Brigade • Will consist of two Divisional Support and one Echelon Company • Bolstered by 101 FS Bn REME for Operations

101 Force Support Battalion Current Structure: 493 (Inc Reg and FTRS) Future Soldier: 443 • • • •

Aligned to 102 Operational Support Brigade Provide Force Generation for 1st (UK) Division War Fighting Dependency at 1st Line. Force Generate a Recovery Company in support of 2 FS Bn Force Generate a Theatre Support Company in support of 9 TS Bn REME

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3 Armoured Close Support Battalion Current Structure: 406 Future Soldier: 381 (391) • Re-subordinate to 20th Armed Brigade Combat Team • Will consist of a Forward, a Rear and an Echelon Company

4 Armoured Close Support Battalion

3RD (UK) DIVISION

Current Structure: 406 Future Soldier: 381 (391) • Re-subordinate to 12th Armed Brigade Combat Team • Will consist of a Forward, a Rear and an Echelon Company

5 Force Support Battalion Current Structure: 461 Future Soldier: 325 (523) • Re-subordinate to 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade • Will consist of two Divisional Support and a Power Packs Repair Company. • Will be bolstered by 103 FS Bn REME for Operations.

6 Armoured Close Support Battalion Current Structure: 410 Future Soldier: 348 (899) • Re-subordinate to Deep Recce Strike Brigade Combat Team. • Will consist of an Armed Strike, Strike Close Support and Echelon Company. • Bolstered by three RLC and RAMC reservists for Operations.

103 Force Support Battalion Current Structure: 410 (Inc Reg and FTRS) Future Soldier: 587 • Remain part of 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade. • Provide Force Generation for 3rd (UK) Division War Fighting Dependency at 1st Line. • Provide two Divisional Support Company's and a Power Pack Platoon aligned to 5 FS Bn REME for Operations.

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ALLIED RAPID REACTION CORPS 9 Theatre Support Battalion Future Soldier: 202 (285) • • •

Provide theatre enablement at Very High Readiness. Working as part of 104 Theatre Sustainment Brigade in the ARRC. Will consist of one Theatre Enabling Company and one Echelon Company. Will be based in Aldershot. Mons Barracks (Tech Infra) and New Normandy Bks (Accommodation).

FIELD ARMY 7 Aviation Support Battalion Current Structure: 438 Future Soldier: 453 (887) • • • •

Support to 1st Aviation Brigade Combat Team at Very High Readiness, including land elements. Becomes Brigade CSS focussed. Will be bolstered by three RLC Aviation Support Squadrons, plus a Medical Company (Reserves) for Operations. Bn Avn Coys provide ‘Airport’ to AH and WC

REME Combat Units Critically the Future Soldier structures will result in no rebalancing of our 1st and 2nd Line capabilities; again, an indicator of the value placed in our Corps. However, as the Army restructures so to will our LADs and Workshops, but the changes in our 1st Line structures will only be as a direct result of the dependant unit restructure. Some will therefore have reductions, whilst others will be uplifted to match their respective ES dependencies. The outline of the future Combat LAD structures, their likely strength and who they support is covered on the following pages.

1ST (UK) DIVISION Light Infantry Future Structure: 0+15 Six LADs supporting the 4th Light Brigade Combat Team as part of the 1st UK Division.

Light Mechanised Infantry Future Structure: 1+33 Five LADs supporting the 7th Light Mechanised – Brigade Combat Team in the 1st UK Division.

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Security Assistance Force Future Structure: 0+11 Four small LADs supporting the 11th Security Assistance Brigade as part of the 1st UK Division.

3RD (UK) DIVISION Light Cavalry Future Structure: 1+40 Two LADs supporting Brigade Combat Teams in the 1st UK Division and one LAD supporting the 3rd UK Divisions Deep Recce Strike Brigade Combat Team.

Mechanised Infantry Future Structure: 1+55 Five LADs supporting the 12th and 20th Armoured Brigade Combat Teams within the 3rd UK Division.

Armoured Cavalry Future Structure: 1+54 Two LADs supporting the 12th and 20th Armoured Brigade Combat Teams as well as two more supporting the Deep Recce Strike Brigade Combat Team within the 3rd UK Division.

Armoured Units Future Structure: 1+83 Two Armoured LADs supporting the 12th and 20th Armoured Brigade Combat Teams within the 3rd UK Division.

Rangers Future Structure: 0+11 Four small LADs supporting the new Ranger Battalions within the Special Operations Brigade as part of the 6th UK Division.

Support to 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Teams 2 and 3 Parachute Regiment will be supported by small LADs of 0+16. Whilst the 1st Bn Royal Irish Regiment (Light Recce Strike Infantry) will be supported by an LAD of (0+33). Before submitting an article you are requested to read the guidelines on the inside front cover 11

Experimentation Future Solider will see the 2nd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment re-role into an experimentation battalion under the Land Warfare Centre, this will be supported by a small team of 0+8 REME Soldiers.

REME Combat Support Units Our soldiers will continue to play a key role in the sustainment of the Army’s Combat Support capability under future soldier. The detailed LAD and Workshop strength is being finalised and will be captured in the respective unit Implementation Orders (IO) issued throughout 2022. The following pages give an overview of how the Royal Engineers and Royal Artillery will be structured, the Combat Teams or Brigades they will be part in order to provide an oversight of the types of roles that will be available to our Officers and Soldiers in the future.

3RD (UK) DIVISION Surveillance and Target Acquisition A single Workshop supporting the 5th Regiment Royal Artillery, based in Catterick. They will be part of the Deep Recce Strike Brigade Team within the 3rd UK Division.

Deep Fires Two LADs supporting the 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery and the 26th Regiment Royal Artillery. Both will work as part of the Deep Recce Strike Brigade Combat Team in the 3rd UK Division.

Armoured Close Support Artillery Two LADs supporting the 1st Regiment Royal Horse Artillery and the 19th Regiment Royal Artillery. Both will work as part of the Deep Recce Strike Brigade Combat Team in the 3rd UK Division.

Short and Medium Range Air Defence Two Workshops supporting the 12th Regiment Royal Artillery and the 16th Regiment Royal Artillery. They will work as part of the 7th Air Defence Group as part of the 3rd UK Division.

Airborne Close Support Artillery A single LAD supporting the 7 Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery. They will remain part of 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team working directly for Field Army HQ. 12 craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk

Miniature and Tactical Un-crewed Aerial Systems Two LADs supporting the 32 Regiment Royal Artillery and the 47 Regiment Royal Artillery. They will sit under direct Field Army HQs control as part of the Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group.

Close Support Light Artillery A single LAD supporting the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery within the 7th Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team. They will be part of the 1st UK Division, based in Topcliffe but moving to Newcastle in 2029.

Close Support Engineers Three LADs supporting 22, 26 and 32 Regiments Royal Engineers. 22 and 26 will be part of 25 (Close Support) Engineer Group within the 3rd UK Division. 32 Regiment Royal Engineers will work within the 7th Light Mechanised Infantry Brigade Combat Team in the 1st UK Division.

Force Support Engineers Three LADs supporting 21, 36 and 39 Regiments Royal Engineers. 36 will sit within 8 Engineer Brigade, 1st UK Division. Whilst 21 and 39 will form part of 25 (Close Support) Engineer Group within the 3rd UK Division.

EOD and Search plus Counter CBRN One Workshop supporting 28, 33 and 35 Regiments Royal Engineers who all form part of the EOD and Search Group within 8 Engineer Brigade, of the 1st UK Division.

In summary, while the Army regular workforce requirement is reducing by 12.5%, the REME will only reduce by 9%. This is a proportional increase and reflects the Army’s intent to invest in the Corps based on our reputation for agility and Equipment Support delivery as well as the increasing technical complexity of Army equipment as we step into the digital age. In addition, the REME Reserve requirement has grown by circa 20-25% to meet the increased operational demand placed on Reserves in general. Noting the regular strength of our Corps is currently 94% of the current workforce requirement, the actual size of our workforce requirement and our current strength are very similar. The Corps’ people effort therefore will be to Retain Regular Personnel and Recruit Hard and Retain Reserve people. The REME career offer is as strong as ever. Before submitting an article you are requested to read the guidelines on the inside front cover 13

Overseas Operations

Op MAKARA 3

Scribe: Captain Walker (2 Royal Anglian, OC LAD)

JACKAL Crew in high spirits

MAN SV requiring recovery, axle change awaits

JACKAL Crew 14 craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk

ith the vehicle rehab following Op MAKARA 2B close to completion, the LADs focus switched to preparing for what would be the most challenging Op of the NEWCOMBE ROTO 2 deployment. Op MAKARA 3 would see the Task Group (TG) travel circa 330km on road and cross country to a UN Super Camp. Once there the TG would conduct operations for a 7-day period before returning to Camp BAGNOLD in preparation for the subsequent handover. The end was very much in sight for the LAD team with only one last hurdle to overcome (MAKARA 3). D Day saw the TG head South to the UN Camp in ANSONGO (approx. 90km by road) to conduct a fuel re-supply. Following the re-supply, the TG broke track and began the 240km cross country march East towards MENAKA Super Camp. The initial stages of the march went to plan, the deployed REME soldiers found themselves trucking through the day and then conducting repairs on the fleet in the evenings. Four days and 180km in to the cross-country march, all was looking good from an ES perspective. The team had conducted no less than 25 repairs on vehicles which would have otherwise been Non-Taskworthy. From a tactical

Using a puller on the upper wishbone of the suspension unit

perspective, C Sqn came under contact from small arms fire after following two armed men on motorcycle into an area of bushland. This resulted in a close-range dismounted extraction from contact followed by a mounted exchange of fire that resulted in 2 EKIA. Morale was high, and the thought of air-conditioned accommodation and some well-deserved rest was at the forefront of everyone’s mind. However, the final phase of the march to MENAKA would prove extremely difficult; the terrain was very sandy with some pretty large dunes and wadies for the TG to negotiate. The terrain and route were further exacerbated with an SV axle breaking and the vehicle then requiring an SVR for the remainder of the journey. This was followed up by both SVRs experiencing significant gearbox issues which resulted in them then being recovered by other platforms. Finally, to top it off, the TG encountered a bush fire with the end state being a JACKAL completely destroyed due to fire damage. The REME team deployed, took this all in their stride, the SVRs were nursed into MENAKA Camp, the burnt-out JACKAL placed on to a flat bed and transported to MENAKA and several other repairs on vehicles saw the TG complete in MENAKA Camp on the 6th day of the march. Once in MENAKA, with all required ES Mat flown forward, a 3-day rehab commenced, this would see the TG back to 97% availability and ready to commence the patrol phase of the operation. From an ES perspective, the patrol phase proved to be normal jogging, no significant issues. The TGs attention then switched to preparing the fleet for the march back to Camp BAGNOLD. The march back proved to be a lot less eventful. The ES team would continue to work their magic and the end state saw only one FOXHOUND on tow following the 330km march back to Camp BAGNOLD. From an ES perspective, Op MAKARA 3 was a resounding success; the entire TG made it to MENAKA and was quickly turned around for future operations. The development of the spares packs held forward meant that 85% of spares required were available on the ground; the other 15% would be flown forward from Camp BAGNOLD. The TG maintained an availability of between 90-97% throughout the Op and on ENDEX, only one FOXHOUND was on tow due to a hydraulic issue which was quickly resolved once back in Camp.

Securing the steering arm to the rear of the hub

Recovery in progress

MAN SV replacement axle in progress

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Public Duties

State Ceremonial Public Duties, 4 Armd CS Bn REME, 9 Armd Coy OC 9 Armd – Major John Vance

2 soldiers and officers from across 3, 4 and 6 REME were given the honour of conducting State Ceremonial Public Duties in London from September to November 2021. The Company group consisting of a HQ and four platoon size detachments provided ceremonial guards and QRFs at Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, the Tower of London, and Windsor Castle to reinforce the existing Foot Guard’s commitment. As the first REME soldiers to conduct this prestigious task since 1992, the team adapted well to the task, completing five weeks of bespoke drill training from both their own drill instructors and a special Household Division team before stepping out at the four Royal residences to represent the Corps. Beyond being a unique opportunity for all involved, it also saw dramatic leadership development across the ranks, and will undoubtedly be something everyone remembers as a career highlight.

Junior Officer’s Experience – Lt Dean State Ceremonial Public Duties has proven to be a unique experience of which I am extremely proud to have been a part. The initial training period saw the Platoons come together from across the three Battalions and begin to form strong working units. This culminated in a very successful Fit for Role Inspection for the Platoon and Company, after which we began the rotation of guards at each of the Royal Residences. I will cherish my time at each location, with my personal highlight being conducting the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London as Captain of the Guard.

Cfn on the form up parade in Winter Dress before a Queen’s Guard Mount

GOC 3(UK) Div Inspecting Cfn Ofuri-Tutu

Capt Matthews and SSgt Shenton during the first Ceremonial Dress Inspection

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REME Corps Colonel Inspecting the soldiers

Maj Vance and Lt Ramsay marching into Buckingham Palace

Lt Dean and SSgt Shenton ready to march up to Windsor Castle

Sgt Wing conducting a final inspection

Windsor Castle guard marching with British Army Band Colchester

REME as the New Guard during the Changing Of The Guard

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Soldier’s Experiences LCpl Tucker Doing Public Duties as a REME Soldier was definitely a once in a career (if not lifetime) opportunity and something I would consider the highlight of my career so far, in many ways it personifies some of the very best aspects of the Corps; showing the wide range of opportunities available to not only practise a trade but also to participate in what the wider Army offers.

Cfn Lund Taking part in Public Duties as a Company has overall been a pleasant experience. The build-up training, whilst challenging, rewarded us with a great experience leading into our first mount for St James’s Palace. Once things were up and running properly, it allowed me to understand how truly challenging the job of a Household Division Guardsman is at times. These past few months have provided an experience I will never forget throughout my Army career and most likely my entire life. It allowed me to create friendships with people in different trades who I don’t normally work with and reinforced the ones I already had.

St James’ Palace Detachment marching led by the Captain Of The Guard

Cfn Stallwood At the beginning the build-up training with the Coldstream Guards was physically draining, but once we were up to the standard and got stuck into the main part of the ceremonies, it was very rewarding and has brought us closer as a Sub-Unit. I found Public Duties to be a great experience to see what Guardsmen do on a day-to-day basis. For me, it was also a really proud moment to represent our Corps and to be part of our history; particularly since the last time the REME was on Ceremonial Duties was 29 years ago.

Windsor Castle Guard Presenting Arms

GOC 3 (UK) Div awarding SSgt Shenton with his commendation on the last Queen’s Guard Mount

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St James’ Palace Detachment marching towards Buckingham Palace

REME MTI SEMINAR 22/03/22-23/03/22 Why should I attend? MTI Seminar is for JNCOs selected for MTI posts at Recruit Training (RT) and Initial Trade Training (ITT) establishments.

What does the seminar aim to provide? The main aim of the seminar is to set the selected MTI up for success at their training establishment. Seminar dates 22/03/22 – 23/03/22 Duration – 2 working days.

Where to apply – APC Glasgow will nominate candidates post MTI board. Seminar Snr Instr- REME Arms School ALDP Instr Sgt M Stokes (Matt.stokes101@mod.gov.uk). Before submitting an article you are requested to read the guidelines on the inside front cover 19

Overseas Exercise

Telling the Tale of the TDS

The view out over the fleet with Fleet Mt Kenya in the background

Scribe: Lt Coleing (5 FS Bn REME)

estled in the foothills of Africa’s second tallest mountain, British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) enjoys breath taking views as its diverse workforce prepares to set a standard of excellence in light role training. With the largest B fleet in the Army and a multitude of exercises to deliver, the men and woman of the workshop are rarely short of opportunities to practice their trades on a wide range of platforms from pistols to plant and Oshkosh. Working collaboratively with Locally Employed Civilians (LECs) to develop engineering skills and provide Equipment Support, tradesmen and women from all over the Corps work against the clock to ensure the British Army remains ready to operate anywhere on the globe.

Petting, Cfn Ward stroking an appreciative cheetah

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It is said that balance is the key to happiness and a deployment to BATUK is certainly not all about work! The camp itself has undergone extensive improvements over the last few years and now boasts excellent accommodation, messes, gym facilities, a bar and a cinema to enjoy during evenings and downtime, but the really exceptional prospects lay on the other side of the gates. Nanyuki, BATUK’s hometown, is a bustling and friendly city full of restaurants, shops, traders and bars sited on the equator and surrounded by national parks and conservancies bursting with wildlife. With such awesome geographical features so close to camp, regular Adventurous Training packages are regularly organised for permanent and Temporary Duty Staff (TDS) that see service persons partake in an array of activities from canyoneering (cliff jumping into fast moving rivers), climbing Mt Kenya and mountain bike safaris. Another hugely rewarding and varied opportunity available to all BATUK personnel is the chance to work with the Community Engagement team to improve the lived experience of Kenyan locals and British service persons alike whilst enhancing the relationship with our host nation. With so much to do, the overriding consensus from those who grasp opportunities, is that time really does fly in Kenya! When considering where I wanted to deploy for my EMELt detachment, the wide range of equipment, geographical location, mixed workforce (LEC and Military), multi capbadge environment and insight to Collective Training Group (CTG) offered by BATUK secured it as the top spot on my wish list. Amidst a Covid environment, where travelling seemed a distance memory, I was ecstatic to learn that I had secured an eight-week detachment to Kenya. Once I’d arrived and completed the FHPM quarantine period, I

The ancient tortoise

Cpl Morris feeding an endangered Bongo set about capitalising on the multitude of learning opportunities presented by the Wksp as they prepared the massive fleet for the upcoming exercises. The unique training and support environment in BATUK enabled me to witness aspects of first, second and third line support as well as many personnel management challenges not present in the UK. Outside of work, I ensured that I made full use of my time in Kenya by indulging in a lodge visit, community engagement project, visits to local businesses and many wildlife spotting excursions on the area. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with BATUK, learned loads and would encourage anyone to seize the chance to deploy to this awesome place!

Adventurous Training by LCpl Needham (2 CS Bn REME) Since arriving in Kenya, many of the workshop have got away on Adventurous Training by speaking to local companies like Rift Valley Adventures and Savage Wilderness who cater to BATUK. Cpl Leyland, Cfn Ward and I took advantage of this opportunity to enjoy a twoday package at Rift Valley. During the Package we had the opportunity to push our limits and enjoy new sports such as, Archery, Mountain Biking, Abseiling, Rock Climbing and Canyoneering. The Canyoneering is a new sport for most soldiers who go on the AT course and it certainly was for us. The day started with a hike through the beautiful Ndare Forest down to a valley, where we spent the day doing high free fall jumps into the Canyon pools. To round it all off, we finished with an 85 foot abseil down a waterfall. It was awesome! During our time at Rift Valley, we also had a tribal introduction with a member of the Masai Tribe. Where we learnt some history of the tribe and got to practice survival and hunting skills by taking part in spear throwing, traditional archery

Maasai Hippo

and fire starting from elephant manure. The two-day course was an outstanding experience and I would recommend it to any soldiers during their time at BATUK. It was Leopard lazing in a tree a great chance to get out into the local area and try new experiences you wouldn’t get to do back in the UK.

Culture, by Cpl Morris (3 Med Regt LAD) Just a few weeks after arriving in BATUK, we organised a Cultural visit to the local Mount Kenya Wildlife Centre which is a short drive from Nyati Bks. Not only was it an opportunity to get out of work for the afternoon, but also a chance for the TDS and Permanent staff to bond before a busy exercise period begins. When we arrived, we were split down, and each group had our own personal guide who told us all about the animals we were seeing (and feeding). There were so many different animals, but a few stand out points would be a giant roaming Warthog, a 100-year-old Tortoise, monkeys that would sit on your shoulder for bananas and an ostrich that followed us around. After the sanctuary we managed to have a nice sit down meal and then sampled the local nightlife which included some terrible renditions on a Karaoke machine.

The playground that the Workshop are in the process of building for a local orphanage

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Maasai Elephants

Community Engagement, by Sgt Watson (2 CS Bn REME) While being posted to BATUK, there are lots of opportunities to be involved in community engagement. This ranges from going to a local orphanage, engaging a local team at sport or visiting one of many animal sanctuaries. Sadly, Covid has complicated many of these activities of late but there are still many opportunities to help out. Many of the government run orphanages in the local area struggle financially and BATUK personnel have helped out in a variety of different ways in the past. Everything from helping serve food, painting walls, donating sports equipment and installing permanent structures for their play area. The REME Workshop is currently working on a Jungle Gym for one of the orphanages. So far, the metalsmith has finished putting together the superstructure which consists of a rectangular tower with some benches underneath, two swings, monkey bars, a ladder and a fireman’s pole. We are also engaging with local shops to acquire the resources to finish off the project. Once we have the rest of the materials, the rest of the Workshop with help in fitting the wooden panels, attaching the swings and painting the finished product. Finally, once the Jungle Gym is completed, we will deliver it to the orphanage as a team and secure it safely on their grounds.

Advanced Driving, by Sgt Watson Whilst at BATUK, there is an advance driving course all serving personnel as well as family members living out in Kenya can enrol in. Currently it’s run by a local company in Nairobi, Glen Edmunds Advanced Driving. This is a great opportunity to further your knowledge in driving and how to properly control a vehicle at different speeds and on difficult terrain. They start off with basic things like forward and rear slaloming through cones so you can get a feel of your vehicle. Eventually you’ll be driving at high speeds and having to deal with obstacles such as a child in the road or the vehicle in front of you slamming on their brakes. This is all done on both concrete roads and dirt tracks helping you understand how your surrounding will affect the vehicle. There is a basic off-roading section that will help you understand your vehicles limits and strengths and hopefully help you on Kenya’s many dirt tracks. Another part of the course teaches you the proper mindset to develop threat recognition and gain skills on how to successfully identify, avoid and or counter a potential threat. This relates specifically to carjacking and other potential attacks while mobile in Kenya. Once you’ve learned these new skills, you’ll have to navigate their course while safely trying to escape and evade the hazards along the way. Overall, it’s a great course with skills you will use long after you leave Kenya.

Maasai Lion quick dip in the pool before setting off on our first safari drive. A few minutes in, we were greeted by grazing zebra and just around the next bend we caught a glimpse of the great migration. Thousands of wildebeest dotted across the landscape and herding across the road in front of us. Across the two days, we also saw cheetahs hunting, hyenas feeding, giraffes, lion cubs, a leopard lazing in a tree and lions fornicating. We headed down to the river and although we unfortunately didn’t see any wildebeest crossing, we managed to see lots of hippos and crocs before heading back on our return journey.

Production by SSgt Lobley (5 FS Bn REME) BATUK has an aging and well used vehicle fleet consisting of approximately 900 platforms. The green aspect ranges from your standard Land Rover TUM FFR and Pinzgauers to the many variations of the SV fleet while the white fleet consisting of Land Rover Defenders, Toyota Prados, Landcruisers and Hiluxs. With a Military workforce of 22, consisting of 8 x Permanent Staff and 14 x TDS, managing 42 x Kenyan Support Staff (KSS) over 3 production lines, an inspections cell and HQ element, working in BATUK has been an experience unlike anywhere else I have worked in my career so far. With plenty of production to be done, a workforce unlike any other and opportunities around every corner all set in a breath-taking environment, a 6-month TDS appointment to BATUK is an awesome opportunity for all.

Maasai Mara by Cpl ‘DAF’ Leyland (6 Regt RLC LAD) In mid-August we set off early from Nairobi on a long drive out to the Maasai Mara. Upon arrival at the reserve we, and many other vehicles, queued to get access while women from the Maasai tribe offered to sell us trinkets and the warriors looked on holding their spears and wearing their traditional attire. A short drive later, we reached our lodge and had time to settle into our cabins taking a

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Maasai Zebras

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Corps Function

Corps Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Autumn Dinner Night 2021 Presiding Member – Warrant Officer Class One (Corps Artificer Sergeant Major) D McNeill President of the Mess Committee – Warrant Officer Class Two (Artificer Quarter Master Sergent Major) I Campbell President of the Entertainment Committee – Warrant Officer Class Two (Artificer Quarter Master Sergent Major) G Hooson

he long awaited, delayed a few times, the Corps Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess Autumn Dinner Night was held on 4th November 2021 in the Harris MM Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess. The dinner night was held to dine in the Corps Artificer Sergeant Major, Dan McNeill, although in post for nearly 18 month and to say a farewell to service personnel that have left the Corps during the COVID pandemic. It only seemed fitting that, as a Corps, we gave all Warrant Officers and SNCO’s who had left the Corps in the past 18 month the chance to attend the dinner night and officially be dined out and we thank the following for their service and for attending; where a great night was had by all. WO1 (ASM) Bernie Brennan 1996 - 2021 WO1 (ASM) Jazz Bal 1997 - 2020 WO1 (ASM) Andy O’Neill 1997 - 2021 Corps Colonel meeting honoured guests, from left to right, Sgt Alexander, WO2 (AQMS) Mike Robinson 1999 - 2021 WO2 (AQMS) Robinson, WO2 (AQMS) Peters and WO1 (ASM) O’Neill WO2 (AQMS) Pauly Peters 1996 - 2020 WO2 (CSM) Kev McCarthy 1996 - 2020 Maz Hoer as the Senior Soldier of the Army’s 6th Division. Sgt Stewart Alexander 2008 - 2021 It was an honour to host the new Corps Colonel, Col Jason This being the first Corps Dinner night to be held in almost Phillips in our Mess and have ex service personnel back to two years, there was a great turn-out with over 100 guests; we have the farewell that they deserve. Col REME took some time had Battalions, WKSPs, LADs, Artificer students and honoured out before the meal to have a personal chat with the service guests all represented. It was a privilege to host Mr Danny leavers, presenting them with a leaving gift and gained an McIvor, the heart of the Corps Association, Pete, Peter and understanding of how life is treating them post their military Chris from the Royal Hospital Chelsea and WO1 (ComdSM) careers.

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The Corps Colonel also took this opportunity to present retired member, WO1 (ASM) Jazz Bal his Corps Colours for his contribution of over 18 years to Corps Hockey and for his contribution to Army hockey over the years. This was long overdue, from starting out his hockey career as a young Cfn on a tour of Barbados to finishing as an ASM managing the team on a tour of America. The Mess Chef put on an excellent meal with the band of the Royal Welsh providing the background music throughout the meal. We had an appearance by the Corps Piper, SSgt Scott McCurdie travelling down from 2Bn REME who piped all guests in on arrival and piped in the top table for the meal. The evening entertainment was provided by Black Corps Colonel meeting honoured guests, from left to right, WO2 (AQMS) Peters, Jack Davy, an Irish music and comedy WO1 (ASM) O’Neill, WO1 (ASM) Brennan, WO1 (ASM) Bal and WO2 (CSM) McCarthy act who tasked the Chelsea Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess Dinner Night is Tuesday 8th Pensioners to be the judging panel for a Mess Dance Off, all in March 2022, this aligns with the ASM’s Forum being run on all, it was safe to say that everyone had a cracking evening. the same day. The Spring Dinner Night will again be a ‘stag’ As well as the Mess bar supplying refreshments, our Corps dinner night to allow the dinner nights to flow back into the beer was available on tap for the guests to pour themselves a way they have been traditionally run, Autumn Guest Night pint of Silver Horse IPA and Silver Horse Pilsner along with Pull and Spring ‘stag’ Night. Tickets for this are live on the REME the Pin Rum team laying on an amazing pop-up bar dishing Connect website. out a variety of rums and cocktails; which all went down a We would like to finish off with thanking the Mess staff for treat with the guests. their help and support in organising the evening, without With Spring only around the corner, the planning has them, these events would never be able to take place, with a already started for the Spring Dinner Night where we are special thanks to Sarah Day; especially as this was her last planning a night that will be bigger and better than the night function as the Mess Manager. we have just had. The date for the Spring Corps Warrant

The Online Home of The REME Family For all your Corps needs including: A digital version of The Craftsman Magazine A map of units where REME serve Information on the Corps Sgts’ & WOs’ Mess and Corps Officers’ Mess Details about Association Branches and groups Applications for REME Charity grants Visit remeconnect.org today

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Share your global stories with the REME Family The Craftsman Magazine showcases the activities of the Corps all over the world in our monthly Global Reach feature. Whether you’re involved in an Exercise, an Operation, or participating in Sport, this is your opportunity to share your international experiences with the REME Family. To be featured, simply send a few sentences (and some photos) telling us where you are, why you are there, and what you are doing. Send to the Craftsman Editor at: craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk Please ensure all Global Reach submissions have been cleared by the CoC. We cannot accept anything that is Of昀cial-Sensitive (OS) or higher AND it must have been cleared for public knowledge.

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REME Sporting Fixtures 2021/22

FOOTBALL: Mens 21 Jan REME* vs Infantry, Calne, KO 1030hrs. 25 Feb Royal Corps of Signals vs REME, Blandford, KO 1030hrs. 04 Mar REME* vs Royal Corps of Signals, Calne, KO 1030hrs. 01 Apr REME* vs Royal Artillery, Calne, KO 1030hrs. 13 May RE vs REME, Chatham, KO 1030hrs. *all Men’s Home games are played at the Beversbrook Sports Complex, Calne, SN11 9FL.

FOOTBALL: Womens 14 Jan RLC vs REME, Aldershot, KO 1030hrs. 25 Jan RLC vs REME, Aldershot, KO 1900hrs. 04 Feb REME vs AMS, MoD Lyneham, KO 1030hrs. RUGBY UNION: Mens 12 Jan RE vs REME, at Chatham, KO 1400hrs. 02 Feb REME* vs RLC, at Royal Wootton Bassett, KO 1400hrs. 18 May Corps Union Finals, at Army Stadium, Aldershot. KO TBC. *all Men’s Home games are played at the Royal Wootton Bassett Rugby Football Club, Swindon, SN4 8DS.

REME Cross Country 23 Feb Inter Corps Cross Country Championships (Location TBC) 20 Mar Corps Half Marathon Championships, Fleet Half Marathon. July (Date TBC) – Corps Road Relay Championships, location TBC.

Advertise your sporting ﬁxtures and results here, contact:

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Sport

REME CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS 2021 T

he event took place on Wednesday 3rd November 2021 following a two-year forced absence due to the pandemic. The bumper turnout of c.300 were not disappointed, blessed with near perfect autumnal racing conditions over a fully established and demanding course, across the Bulford Training Area. All categories were fiercely contested, which confirms the strength in depth held across the age groups going forward into 2022. The standard at the front of the male race boasted a handful of Army athletes, Maj Knudsen executed a sublime performance winning by 2mins from Maj Axon and SSgt Crozier. In the female race, LCpl Burrows stormed to victory in a self-confessed ‘first ever race win’ that the most seasoned of athlete would be proud – one to watch! Overall, there was a significant step up in talent which is testament to the hard miles that athletes have put in, despite a lack of race opportunities of late. Impressively there were 27 minor unit teams in attendance – let’s aim higher next year!

President – Brig A Stuart MBE (Late REME). Chair – Col P J McArthur (Late REME) Deputy Chair – Lt Col A Yarker REME. Secretary & scribe – Maj Mike Lovell REME

The competitors are set off!!!

On the course, descending one of the many hills

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Pre-race build up

LCpl Burrows crossing the line in first place, to win the Female race

Prizes on display

Awards presented by Brig Faithful-Davies CBE

The results were: Male Champion

Maj Knudsen (HQ 1 ISR Bde)

Female Champion

LCpl Burrows (1 AAC Wksp)

Male Masters Champion

WO2 Wainwright (47 RA Wksp)

Female Masters Champion

Maj Hayes (MOD Abbey Wood)

Male 45+ Masters Champion

WO1(RSM) Jarvis (6 Armd CS Bn REME)

Female 45+ Masters Champion Brig Faithfull-Davies (HQ 102 Log Bde)

Minor Unit Champions 24 Cdo RE Wksp

Male Champion Maj Knudsen (HQ 1 ISR Bde)

U23 Male Champion

LCpl Stott (1 AAC Wksp)

U23 Female Champion

Cfn Scott (36 Engr Regt Wksp)

Reserve Male Champion

Cpl Edgley (103 Bn REME)

Major Unit Champions

13 AASP Regt, 8 Para Fd Coy

Minor Unit Champions

24 Cdo RE Wksp

Male Masters Champions

6 Armd CS Bn REME

Female Team Champions

5 FS Bn REME

U23 Team Champions

3 Armd CS Bn REME

Female Champion LCpl Burrows (1 AAC Wksp)

We had the privilege of hosting President REME XC, Brig Stuart MBE, Brig Faithfull-Davies CBE, Comd 102 Log Bde and Maj Gen (Retd) McClean CBE, previous President REME XC and honoured guest. Unfortunately, representatives from our kind sponsors, Brig (Retd) Allan Thomson, Aspire Defence or Mr Jon Reed, MooD Defence could not be in attendance. I take this opportunity to thank our sponsors for their ongoing support to REME XC, and CO’s 3, 4 and 6 Armd CS Bn REME for the Real-Life Support function yet again provided – the event simply could not go ahead without them. Finally, REME XC marked the occasion presenting richly deserved Corps Colours to Maj Hayes, Capt Hunt, SSgt Crozier and Cpl Williamson, presented by Maj Lovell; Additional noteworthy results since the championship include complete dominance across the Regional XC Championships: RC (South) Champion – Maj Knudsen RC (North) Champion – Maj Axon RC (Midlands) Champion – SSgt Crozier

U23 Male Champion LCpl Stott (1 AAC Wksp)

Female Captain – Maj Charlotte Hayes (Charlotte.Hayes774@mod.gov.uk) Masters Captain – WO2 Tony Jarvis (Antony.Jarvis569@mod.gov.uk) U23 Male Captain – SSgt’s James Oke / Sam Crozier (James.Oke111@mod.gov.uk | Samuel.Crozier698@mod.gov.uk)

Looking forward… Inter Corps Cross Country Championships – (23 Feb 22) location TBC. Corps Half Marathon Championships (20 Mar 22) – Fleet Half Marathon, incorporating Inter Service and Army Championships. Corps Road Relay Championships – (Jul 22) location TBC pending confirmation of Corps Festival of Sport. Ex CRAFTSMAN RUNNER 6 (4 – 10 Sep 22), Keswick, Lake District. Corps training camp aimed at all levels from beginner to the seasoned Corps athlete for 40 REME personnel. Corps Social Media – REME Running (Strava running group), download the app and request to join the c.850 runners already involved, it is that easy! Finally, if you are interested in running (in any capacity) and want to get involved or have any queries regarding the sport contact the team: Secretary – Maj Mike Lovell (Michael.lovell534@mod.gov.uk) Male Captain – Capt Chris Eastman (Christopher.Eastman759@mod.gov.uk)

Corps Colours awarded to Capt Hunt

Corps Colours awarded to SSgt Crozier

Corps Colours awarded to Maj Hayes

Corps Colours awarded to Cpl Williamson

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Sport

REME success at Inter Corps Competition Oct 21 Scribe: Cfn Maddie Hempell

REME Netball 2021

Lt Col Ellis focused on goal

wWow what a jump! Brigadier Faithfull-Davies impressively defending the shot

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n the week of the 18 Oct 21, a number of players from across the Corps got together to compete in the Inter-Corps Netball competition. The players involved ranged from Craftsman still in their trade training, up to Brigadier. After a successful training period at Lyneham, the REME entered two teams into the competition, which is an achievement in itself, given the numbers of females within the Corps. Team A was made up of a mix of the more experienced players while the Team B were a brand-new team that made their strong debut at the competition. Team REME were very fortunate to also have Lt Col Laura Ellis (the current Army netball coach) to aid in giving both teams advice on court. She joined the REME Team A and with her accurate shooting and experience, guided the team through to the Final. Team B were fortunate to have Captain Jennifer Thomas as their team manager, who mentored the less experienced members of the squad and encouraged everyone when they were up against the eventual winners of Div 2 (RLC B Team). Although Team B were a new and young team compared to their rivals, they still managed to win two games and give some more experience teams, a competitive game.

Cfn Burn the youngest squad member with many years of REME Netball ahead of her

Great defence by Cfn Soso

Day 2 of the competition had VIP guests from across the Army. Team REME had the opportunity to play with Brigadier Lizzie Faithfull-Davies, she also gave the team a chance to talk to her in a more informal way on the side-lines. Team A were the only team to beat the AGC team during the pool phase, who were unbeaten in this competition since 2014, and in doing so made it through to the Finals of Division 1. However, after a serious injury to a starting player in the first 2 mins of the final which unsettled the team, they were unable to get over the final hurdle and were the runner up. It should be noted for context, that this is the first time ever that REME have reached the final in the competition and the first time that the final hasn’t been contested by the top four teams (AMS, AGC, RLC or R Signals) for over 10 years. Team REME also had 5 players invited to trial for the Army squad, with 4 (Capt Tognarelli 103 Bn REME, Cfn Wright 3 Bn REME, Cfn Soso & Cfn Vermeulen 8 Trg Bn REME) successfully making it onto the squad for the 2021/22 season.

Cfn Soso on the attack

Cfn Vermeulen a rising Corps Netball star

If anyone is interested in playing netball for the REME, please contact: Capt Katie Hawkins: Email: Kathryn-scarlett.Hawkins103@mod.gov.uk Tel: 0300 158 7217 Capt Jenny Thomas: Email: Jennifer.thomas201@mod.gov.uk Tel: 0300 167 8862 There is weekly training on Wednesday afternoons in MOD Lyneham, we aim to have a UK based tour next summer and the intention is for a mixed netball competition in late 2022, so male or female players are welcome to all events.

Well done Coach, Lt Col Ellis thoroughly deserved her Runners-Up trophy

Fantastic support from all squad members

Captain Thomas delighted to be receiving her Runners-Up trophy

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REME Sport

Corps Clay Pigeon Shooting

Cfn Horton awarded High Gun trophy by Colonel Simpson

REME Clay Target Championships 2021 Fast rolling rabbits target shoot

High flying overhead driven targets shoot

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irst Corps Clay Target event after lockdown; On 22 Sep 21, the REME Championships were held at the home of REME Clay Shooting, Bramley. The weather couldn’t have been better to get back out with the gun and dust off the cobwebs. In all, over 100 people came to the event, which was shared with the RLC Championships. This made for a fantastic atmosphere and friendly rivalry/ banter.

8 Bn REME winning team, Sgt Hill, Sgt Porter and Cpl Ward

Maj Douglas being awarded the Female High Gun trophy

The course itself consisted of 100 targets over 12 stands. The course setters, Maj Barbieri and WO2 (AQMS) Meager had set the targets to test all the shooters. They certainly ensured the targets were varied in both size and complexity; ranging from fast rolling rabbits along the ground to high flying overhead driven targets, to slow and technical. If that wasn’t enough; to try and challenge shooters even further, some of these stands were then shot as simulated pairs, where both targets are released at the same time. All the competitors thoroughly enjoyed the day and were thankful to be back out again, particularly after such a long break from sport. One shooter who did particularly well on the day and whose form is replicated across to Army Competitions, was Cfn Horton. He took the title of Corps High Gun with an outstanding score of 88 on this challenging course. Thank you and well done to all who attended and took part, especially the winners of some fantastic prizes. Well done to Cfn Horton, Corps High Gun (88 scored), and the team entry from 8 Trg Bn REME (Cpl Ward, Sgt Hill, Sgt Porter), who won the Unit Championship for the third year in a row. The event also saw 3 individuals presented with Corps colours for shooting, WO1 (ASM) Field, Cpl Milner and Cfn Horton. If anyone is interested in taking up the sport, or joining the ATSC, please get in touch with the Team Captain: WO2 (AQMS) Pete Meager.

LCpl Milner being presented Corps Colours

WO1 (ASM) Field being presented Corps Colours

Full results are shown below: REME Championships Unit Winners Corps Overall HG Corps runner up U23 High gun U23 Runner up (RUP) Female HG Reserve HG Guest A Class winner A Class RUP B Class winner B Class RUP C Class winner C Class RUP

8 Trg Bn REME Cfn Horton Cpl Ward Cfn Mawhinney Lt Fielder-Shaw Maj Douglas Col Simpson Cpl MCCalla Sgt Hunt Cpl Jones Cpl Moore Cfn Brookfield Lt Walter 2Lt Mayne

Cfn Horton being presented Corps Colours

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Sport

REME CORPS ENDURO TEAM OPEN DAYS 04-05 March 2022 Corps Enduro Team

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he REME Corps Enduro Team are holding a team selection and open day for newcomers and REME SP who are interested in joining the team. The event will consist of some training and coaching sessions where experienced Corps riders can offer an insight to the sport and pass on some new skills for those who want to have a go. A perfect opportunity for those talented riders to showcase their off-road riding skills. The location is TBC but likely to be within the Tidworth, Lyneham and Longmoor triangle. If you own an off-road bike and would like to take part, please contact; WO1 (ASM) Cotty. Email: Anthony.Cotty634@mod.gov.uk

Peoples Stories

Calling All Ex REME Junior Leaders Unit Scribe: Capt (Retd) Daniel Scollard-Kerr REME

very year the old boys of the REME Junior Leaders Unit (JLU) have a reunion, of course COVID prevented a reunion in 2020, however, a small group of now ageing ex boys, some not pursuing a long career in REME and some having a full and colourful career in the Corps, met in the Hilton Hotel in Swindon on Friday the 22nd of October for the 2021 reunion. On the Saturday some of us took the opportunity to visit the new home of REME at Lyneham and of course we visited the REME Museum, and I have to say what a wonderful experience it was, it brought back many happy memories. However, it struck me that it is sad that there is no mention of the REME Junior Leaders Unit ever existing, which after all produced some fine Clerks and Storemen, Chief Clerks, Superintendent Storemen, RSM’s and of course Quartermasters, Training Officers and Admin Officers, all of which played a vital role in the Corps. During our reunion old times were discussed and many old photographs and documents were produced showing how life used to be, so there is a plethora of material out there, if only it could be harnessed and displayed for future Corps members to see, and old members to reminisce about. I have attached a couple of my own, one of me as the Drum Major in 1963 and the other of a Quartermasters reunion where all in the photo were ex JLU QM’s, not forgetting CSM Pete Lillington our Senior Staff CSM at JLU who also became a QM. So, with that in mind I contacted the Curator of the REME Museum and explained my concern that it would be a shame if we could not When I was the JLU Drum Major in 1963 recall that there was a part to be played by the Non-Technical members of the Corps, and something from the Corps past that closed its gates in 1965. I had a very prompt and positive reply, and he suspects that the JLU was not included in the new Museum design because there were no objects in the permanent collection which tell the story. He also suggested that if old colleagues would be prepared to donate some material to the Museum, it would certainly have the potential for a temporary exhibition at the very least. So, if there are any old JLU boys out there who have anything to contribute, I would be willing to receive and liaise with the Museum and hopefully a display can be arranged. I did notice that there were the old gates to Chepstow Apprentice College on display in the Museum, so maybe someone has ripped out the old doors to Joslin House!! Contact for memorabilia – JLU Quartermasters reunion in 1986. From left to right, Captains Andy Gills, Andy Anderson, danielscollardkerr@yahoo.co.uk Derrick Beams, Bob Lamb, Pete Lillington (retired, JLU Senior Staff), Daniel Scollard-Kerr, Contact for Reunion – Fred Obrastoff-Rutinsky, Trevor Gogin and John Payne stuart.mclean@homecall.co.uk Before submitting an article you are requested to read the guidelines on the inside front cover 37

REME History

September 1986 First time for Royal Guard Duty for REME Scribe: Roddy Mullin

he CO of the Training Battalion and Depot REME, Lt Col Roddy Mullin, recollects the first time REME were called on to provide a Royal Guard for Windsor Castle. REME HQ were told that if we did well next time it would be Buckingham Palace. An extra Company of REME Soldier volunteers was assembled at Arborfield. Time was spent perfecting guard drill. The Knights of Windsor were known to be unhappy and report any extra steps or mis-turns when on guard or guard mounting duty. The kit was of course immaculate. Extra provision of spare uniforms, rifles etc even spare soldiers was taken to cover any mishap. The CO’s Public Fund was used to provide cellular radios - the size of a brick – the forerunner of mobile phones. This was fortunate as on the first day one of the buses taking the guard to Windsor broke down and instantly a truck was sent from Arborfield to rescue them. Reconnaissance of the duty took place when the Royal Marines were guarding the Castle. The guard posts are different now, but No1 Post was facing downhill outside the Castle entrance. A party of French teenagers had surrounded the Marine who remained immobile. A French youth asked one of his female compatriots to show him her bare chest. Fortunately, the Marine was not versed in the language. He remained steadfast. No 1 Post

December 1986 front cover, of The Craftsman magazine

Lt Lay and Lt Bearcroft retire to the Officers’ flat during a guard mounting 38 craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk

Cfn Coen is relieved by Cfn Bowers at No 1 Post outside the guardroom. Cpl Parsons posts the sentries

was very popular with the REME guard as young ladies would post their telephone numbers into uniform pockets. We also heard of the Para who at No 6 Post saw HM The Queen moving down the corridor inside the building one early morning. In a state of panic, he presented arms. Later in the day a message came through saying that presenting arms is only required should HM The Queen venture outside. Handover/takeover was from the Irish Guards. The REME Band played and our tallest Subaltern took the ceremonial key which turned out to be a soft sausage like object as an Irish joke. Everyone kept a straight face. We heard later that a young Irish officer invited to dine with HM The Queen and the Colonel of The Irish Guards Prince Philip was asked why he was not wearing a stiff shirt and collar who replied that he only had to do so on formal occasions. Feedback from people placed in the crowd to hear what the mainly tourists said, picked up one American say to his wife “It’s really an auspicious day; the Irish are handing over to the British”. Another queried why the Castle had been built on the approach to London Airport. But clearly the tourists and visitors loved the ceremonial and the band were ordered to play at each guard mounting ceremony every other day thereafter. The Royal Guard Officer’s Quarter is steeped in history with signatures of previous Guard Commanders including Winston Churchill – no one is allowed to add any other writing. It was a very pleasant place to hold parties and we at Arborfield took advantage of it after each guard mounting ceremony. At night the guard becomes a real guard and on one occasion three intruders were apprehended. HM The Queen through one of her Equerries congratulated the REME Guard on catching them (in subsequent months the ROAC Guard allowed a banner to be placed on the round tower). When it was all over, the General Commanding the Household Division responsible for Royal Guards was asked how REME had performed. He paused, then said, “The Cheshires are the best, but you are their equal.”

Cfn Wright at the Advance Gates

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Are you ex-serving REME? Did you have a partner or family who were in REME? Where Are They Now? is a new feature, giving you the chance to share your stories with the wider REME Family. If you have a story to share, email it to craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk # T h e R E M E Fa m i l y

Before submitting an article you are requested to read the guidelines on the inside front cover 39

The Screwjack Letters – No. 24 Screwjack gets told off again

n late 1966, on my departure from Malaya, the Workshop presented me with a pewter mug inscribed with my name and “Last seen on a raft Blighty bound.” I had been posted to 12 Infantry Workshop in Osnabruck to take over armoured vehicle work. I had WO2 Stan Marchant with twenty A vehicle Mechanics, also another fifteen German civilian Mechanics with a German Foreman. The main dependency was the 55 Centurion tanks of the 9th/12th Lancers at the adjoining barracks. There were also some Ferret, Saracen and Saladin armoured vehicles. Our OC was Major Mike Letcher. We got along well. My job included taking four teams of four men each on all the exercises with the 9th/12th. I also commanded all the routine East German border patrols that were 12 Inf ‘s share in 5 Brigade. In my first week I discovered that one of my Mechanics had been charged for a court martial under the new drink driving law. He assured me that he was not drunk, his car had slid into the ditch beside a lane where he had pulled to one side to allow another car to pass. The Police had arrived and had taken him for a blood alcohol test, giving him a sample for separate analysis. I attended the summary of evidence as “friend of the accused”. The summary was taken by a short-tempered Royal Artillery Major. I expect he would have preferred to be doing something else. The new law said that it was an offence to drive a vehicle on a public road with more than 80 mg per ml in your blood. The police samples read 81, 80 and 81. A German Chemist was our expert defence witness. He spoke some English and I spoke some German. The gunner Major only spoke English. At one stage I had to consult or clarify privately with the Chemist and so, the Major had to leave the room. Maybe he thought I was deliberately wasting his time. I was not. The Chemist produced his readings which were 79, 80 and 81. I had to consult privately again and the Major stomped out again, clearly in a huff. The Chemist

was alarmed by this, but I tapped the side of my head, jerking the thumb in the direction of the Major, to indicate I thought he was nuts. I clarified a point with the Chemist and called the Major back, with some faint apologies. For my contribution to the summary of evidence I wrote: “The readings indicate that there is reasonable doubt that the limit has been exceeded. The charge should be dropped.” It was. Our main vehicles were four ex-WW2 American armoured half-tracks on which had been added 4-berth cabins for the crew. Each had a folding jib crane erected and operated by the front winch. Although old, they seemed ideal for the job. The only fudge was a bit of Araldite repair on one carburettor. In addition, of course, we carried a stock of major Centurion assemblies in 10-ton Leyland Hippos from the RAOC stores section. We were 12 Inf’s “Forward Repair Group” (FRG). Our job was to go to where a tank had broken down and change either the engine, gearbox, clutch, final drive or auxiliary generator. The engine was a 650 horsepower 27 litre Meteor engine, which was basically the Rolls Royce Merlin engine as on the Spitfire, but unsupercharged and with some cheaper components. The bare engine only weighed half a ton, barely one percent of the entire tank. The auxiliary generator engine was an 850cc Morris side-valve engine as used on the very early Morris Minors, I think. In practice, Neil Ramsbottom, the 9th/12th LAD Commander, used to keep the tanks rolling until we were on exercise or on range firing, then feed the tanks to the FRG location at a rate of 5 changes every two days. Rarely did we have to go to a sudden breakdown. One fine Summer Friday we were on heathland under a clump of trees, not far from the pub at Heber crossroads and the 9th/12th Cpl Haynes splitting had the weekend off during Squadron training. the track for a final They had an Officers’ mess dinner under some drive change trees complete with mess silver and their band. I had to go home and I asked if any of the FRG would like to go back to Osnabruck. I could take five in my Land Rover but they all preferred to stay. I went back to Osnabruck and I had to take the pay packets to each of the married men’s wives. All was well until I got to Mrs G, wife of my Corporal G. She demanded to know why her husband was not home for the weekend. She gave me hell and said she would get an answer from the CREME, then she slammed the door. Life can be so unfair.

Auxiliary generator change

9th/12th Lancers band

40 craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk

Main engine change by the tilt method

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REME Association

South Africa Branch Scribe: Alan Weeks

he 28th November saw the SA Branch have a joint Christmas meeting with the SA RAEME Association. This was also the occasion of their Birthday, being formed on December 1st 1942 and their AGM. Major Richard Moyses, RAEME President, recited the Ode at the commencement of the meeting, Branch Standards and Colours were on display. 80 members, families and guests attended this first joint

meeting and it was agreed that we would make this an annual event; strengthening the bonds of friendship and Esprit de Corps between our organisations. Mr Frank Stevens was awarded the OBE (Over B…. Eighty)!!!! with rousing cheers from all present, having attained his 80th birthday!! Lunch was well received and a great time was had by all with plenty of Christmas Cheer.

Alan Weeks Chairman SA and Major Richard Moyses RAEME SA

www.remeshop.org.uk SHOP

The REME Shop carries a varied range of items from branded clothing, gifts, statuettes, accessories, military uniform items and bespoke personalized products on request. The Corps shop is located within the REME Museum and offers a collection service. The REME Trading Company (of which the shop is a part of) is a ‘not for profit’ and runs in support of The REME Charity for The REME Family.

01249 894871

42 craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk

sales@remeshop.org.uk

Extracts from the London Gazette 09 November 2021 REGULAR ARMY Colonel I. J. PHILLIPS ADC 535044 is appointed Colonel Commandant Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers 8 November 2021 in succession to Colonel A. J. ROGERS 547179 tenure expired Regular Commissions (Late Entry) Captain A. L. ALLEN 24848497 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain P. I. BELL 25043819 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) C. G. J. COMBER MC 24781284 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) A. G. DESROCHES 24781172 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain C. J. HANKS 25022298 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain D. M. IRVINE 25025446 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) T. A. ISAAC 25009930 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) N. LAWRENCE 25026559 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) A. H. MORRIS QCVS 25021855 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) S. L. OLDRID 25035639 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) C. REDBURN 24866336 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) D. L. SMITH 25028678 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) S. S. SYKES MBE 24868989 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain A. THOMSON 25022293 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain (Acting Major) M. H. WATSON 25011458 to be Major 31 July 2021 Captain J. M. WHITEHOUSE 25018140 to be Major 31 July 2021 Intermediate Regular Commissions (Late Entry) Captain P. C. D. HEMBERY 25104444 to be Major 31 July 2021

16 NOVEMBER 2021 REGULAR ARMY Regular Commissions (Late Entry) Lieutenant Colonel R. COWAN 24743453 retires 10 August 2021 Lieutenant Colonel P. OLIVER 565056 retires 14 August 2021 REGULAR ARMY The following Army personnel have been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal CAPT, S. C. ATHERTON, REME, 25088056 WO1, A. L. CULLIFORD, REME, 25104287 SSGT, R. J. McLUSKEY, REME, 25104609 The following have been awarded the 2nd Clasp to the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Military) MAJ, S. D. HOLMES, REME, 565048 The following have been awarded the 1st Clasp to the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Military) WO1, G. S. ALLEN, REME, 25055007 WO1, C. J. APPLEBY, REME, 25052888 LT COL, R. J. BAXTER, REME, 545501 SSGT, R. L. DEACON, REME, 25049804 WO1, M. P. GODDARD, REME, 25054559 CPL, C. L. HASLAM, REME, W1032646 SSGT, G. STEWART, REME, 24920272 LT COL, P. R. TAYLOR, REME, 545001 The following have been awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Military) SSGT, P. T. CALEY, REME, 25226801 CPL, J. COOK, REME, 24929500 SGT, K. R. DALE, REME, 25221791

SGT, D. J. EVANS, REME, 25172662 SSGT, C. P. HARTLEY, REME, 25094463 WO2, C. M. HAYWARD, REME, 25219052 SGT, A. R. HESKETH, REME, 25222627 SGT, C. H. KAPP, REME, 25225525 MAJ, P. J. LINES, REME, 565316 CPL, M. Y. NURO, REME, 25227554 SSGT, J. OSABUTEY, REME, 25227164 CPL, J. PATTERSON, REME, 25227275 SGT, D. P. PHOENIX-JONES, REME, 25226161 CPL, R. J. RADMORE, REME, 25093070 SSGT, A. J. SHARPLES, REME, 25224089 CAPT, K. R. TOWNSEND, REME, 25039093 MAJ, C. J. WATSON, REME, 561099 CPL, M. W. WELLS, REME, 25217837 WO2, P. M. WEST, REME, 25156276 CPL, J. A. J. WILLIAMS, REME, 25219805 SSGT, N. J. WRIGHT, REME, 25222229 The following have been awarded the 3rd Clasp to the Volunteer Reserves Service Medal CPL, P. L. ATHAWES, REME, 24947141 SSGT, S. J. COLE, REME, 24947210 WO2, T. A. DOWNS, REME, W0826216 The following have been awarded the Volunteer Reserves Service Medal SSGT, A. ROBINS, REME, 24794991 CPL, J. A. WHITTAKER, REME, 30143132

23 NOVEMBER 2021 REGULAR ARMY Intermediate Regular Commissions (Late Entry) Warrant Officer Class 1 James MATTHEWS 25074956 to be Captain 6 September 2021 Warrant Officer Class 1 Craig Frederick PATTERSON 25059097 to be Captain 6 September 2021 Warrant Officer Class 1 Daniel Michael YOUNG 25067180 to be Captain 6 September 2021 Special Regular Commissions Second Lieutenant E. St G. L. RAMSEY 30266816 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Short Service Commissions Lieutenant S. A. L. CHARLES 30183686 to be Captain 11 August 2021 Second Lieutenant P. G. ASPINALL 30201406 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant C. G. BLAKE 30223080 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant N. A. CLOSE 30201430 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant C. M. DAVIDSON 30283352 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant P. EYRE 30201450 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant J. R. HART 30161197 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant H. MACFADDEN-MARSH 30222477 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant J. A. ROBERTS 30222225 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant E. J. TANSLEY 30201535 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant D. G. B. TUCKETT 30248646 to be Lieutenant 11 August 2019 (Belated Entry) Second Lieutenant A. BENNETT 30266834 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant B. P. CROMPTON-ALLISON 30266869 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant G. E. DEAN 30247498 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant J. L. DUFFIN 30266887 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant P. A. DYER 30288068 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021

Before submitting an article you are requested to read the guidelines on the inside front cover 43

Second Lieutenant J. A. EMERY 30249453 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant T. FIELDER-SHAW 30269575 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant K. L. GARRAWAY 30266870 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant H. E. GLAISTER 30266888 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant J. F. O. HARRIS 30222476 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant J. D. HISCOX 30244634 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant G. P. HOUSTON 30228352 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant F. A. HOWE 30267391 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant M. J. H. HUTSON 30314065 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant H. J. LANGDALE 30266829 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant P. J. LEWIS 30225818 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant S. MARAIS 30266828 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant A. J. MARTIN 30266822 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant A. J. PATRICK 30266805 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant H. J. SKILLING 30244699 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant D. J. SOUTHWICK 30244730 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant E. J. TAYLOR 30244484 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant M. D. THOMPSON 30266806 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant A. TOMLIN 30244068 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant B. M. C. WALBROOK 30315578 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 Second Lieutenant J. M. WHITEHOUSE 30266498 to be Lieutenant 15 August 2021 ARMY RESERVE The following have been awarded the 2nd Clasp to the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Military) MAJ, G. M. CORSIE, REME, 24725243 LT COL, M. A. MILLER, REME, 554426 MAJ, P. S. OAKES, REME, 24783423 LT COL, P. OLIVER, REME, 565056 LT COL, M. W. PATEY, REME, 24783209 MAJ, G. S. SOANE, REME, 24725242 The following have been awarded the 1st Clasp to the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Military) WO2, I. J. MILLER, REME, 25053635 WO1, C. RADFORD, REME, 25053567 WO1, A. J. STONE, REME, 24897535 The following have been awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal (Military) SSGT, S. ARMFIELD, REME, 25220214 SGT, G. BARKER, REME, 25219986 SGT, R. P. BARKER, REME, 25228023 SGT, S. T. BARRETT, REME, 25194984 SGT, H. G. CHARLES, REME, 25226627 SSGT, A. T. COCKING, REME, 25228095 CPL, J. O. COWLING, REME, 25229700 SSGT, S. B. CRANAGE, REME, 25222091 SGT, M. J. CRITCHLEY, REME, 25142087 SGT, M. P. DONNELLY, REME, 25223456 SSGT, D. A. FEATHER, REME, 25225969 WO2, A. E. FENNELL, REME, 25136429 SGT, M. T. FORSTER, REME, 25223603 CPL, A. C. HILLARY, REME, 25229235 SGT, A. J. HORNER, REME, 25221496 SGT, A. HUDSON, REME, 25221489 44 craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk

CPL, C. P. KENDRICK, REME, 25229550 WO1, R. P. KERR, REME, 25122725 CPL, M. U. KONDOWE, REME, 25168798 MAJ, M. D. LAVELLE, REME, 25185339 SGT, M. J. LEAKER, REME, 25116190 LCPL, T. D. H. LEECH, REME, 25221497 SSGT, B. L. A. LEO, REME, 25229845 CPL, R. N. MEATS, REME, 25229350 SSGT, M. J. MILLS, REME, 25218613 SGT, L. MITCHELL, REME, 25223696 SSGT, C. F. MORROW, REME, 25221487 SGT, B. A. MOULD, REME, 25196050 CPL, S. A. MUSGROVE, REME, 25119172 CPL, P. M. NDEBELE, REME, 25218694 SGT, G. NEWMAN, REME, 25188822 SGT, D. L. ORCHARD, REME, 25226203 SGT, J. W. C. PARTENHEIMER, REME, 25169182 SSGT, J. M. PROUT, REME, 25226915 SGT, L. J. STEELE, REME, 25223470 LT, B. A. E. TAYLOR, REME, 25228081 SGT, J. TULLOCH, REME, 25223695 CPL, C. J. VAULS, REME, 25228096 SGT, S. B. WARDER, REME, 25226253 SSGT, L. WEALLEANS, REME, 25218766 SGT, C. WILLIAMS, REME, 25223606 CPL, N. WILLIAMS, REME, 25221492 SGT, J. B. WYATT, REME, 25199988 SGT, R. J. M. YOUNG, REME, 25132223

Officer Assignments NAME ASSIGNED TO Lieutenant Colonel BATES CJ HQ 102 LOG BDE – SO1 RESERVES BHARAT SJ DSA DAIB – DAIB AIR ENG 8 CUNNINGHAM A D CAP FFD RESEARCH AND EXPERIMENTATION – SO1 AWE CURRIE HM HQ 3 UK DIV – SO1 ES RESERVES EVANS AI D CAP HOC AM CHIEF AIRCRAFT ENGINEER – SO1 ES AVN PLANS FOSTER LG DES COMLAND LE AVP HPO ABW – SO1 CRP LEP OAKES PS APC CM CSS – SO1 REME SLDRS QUINN LE HQ 102 LOG BDE BDE OUTSTATION YORK - SO1 ES RESERVES Major ANGBO Y DEFENCE ACADEMY – ICSC 18B AUBREY JD DEFENCE ACADEMY – ICSC 18B CIESIELCZUK RG DEFENCE ACADEMY – ICSC 18B DEACON AR DEFENCE ACADEMY – ICSC 18B HUNJAN JS DEFENCE ACADEMY – ICSC 18B KEEN KM APC CM CSS – SO2A REME SLDRS MALONEY SP DEFENCE ACADEMY – ICSC 18B RIX J OP BACKWELL – PJHQ ARMY BACK1701 OC SST TRG TEAM ROBERTS MB DEFENCE ACADEMY – ICSC 18D STARR AT DEFENCE ACADEMY – ICSC 18D Second Lieutenant COLEING NJD DSEME LYNEHAM 8 BN REME HELMAND COY – PL COMD PEARMUND RJ DSEME REME ARMS SCHOOL – REME YO Course

DATE 07 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 17 Jan 22 01 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 23 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 01 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 04 Jan 22 03 Jan 22 04 Jan 22

YOUR MAGAZINE NEEDS

YOU YOU The Craftsman Magazine exists for The REME Family but it is only kept going because you provide the articles in it. From engineering to fencing, if it is about the Corps you can write an article about it. See inside the front cover for guidelines.

Obituary Former Corporal Mike Scott 24136596 former Cpl Mike Scott passed away due to Covid-9 on 3 Nov 21. Scribe: Pat Nulty

The REME Charity The Trustees of The REME Charity acknowledge with sincere thanks the donations received during the month of NOVEMBER 2021. They also wish to acknowledge the regular subscriptions received from the Officers and Soldiers of the Corps and retired members of the REME Institution:

Donations

Corporal Mike Scott, with 16 Para WKSP REME in 1975.

Para Log Rugby 1974

Mike trained as a VM at the AAC, Arborfield (1968 – 70) and then SEME Bordon 1970 – 71. He did a short tour with the Green Howards before volunteering for parachute training, passing P Coy in 1972. Mike would stay with 1 Para Log Regt, Wksp REME until disbandment of 16 Para Bde in late 1976. During those years he served on Op BANNER and on exercise in the UK and overseas with 2 Para and 3 Para. On the disbandment of 16 Para Bde Mike was posted to BAOR with 3 Para where he served until the Battalion returned to the UK in 1979. Mike stayed in BAOR with the new Battalion, The Scots Guards, and decided that his future lay outside and he left the Army in 1979. Mike was an outstanding sportsman and athlete but he excelled at rugby (playing for REME in the mid-70s), moving between the forwards and three quarters to suit the team’s needs. Mike was married to Elaine for 47 years, he will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.”

Death Notices CANOVAN – Capt (Retd) James Bernard Canovan. Known as Bernard, passed away on 12 November 2021 aged 82. Dates of service 1957-1984. LAVERICK – Driver George William Laverick passed away on 23 October 2021 aged 91. Dates of service 1948-1950.

Death Notice Requirements In order to publish a death notice we require the following information: Surname, first name, rank, full date of death, ages and dates of service. An obituary with additional career and life information is welcome. To inform us of the death, please contact Ms Bev Bate, Corps Welfare Manager on ( 01249 894523 or  benevolence@reme-rhq.org.uk

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25/10/2021 25/10/2021 25/10/2021 25/10/2021 25/10/2021 03/11/2021 03/11/2021 03/11/2021 08/11/2021 08/11/2021 08/11/2021 08/11/2021 08/11/2021 17/11/2021 22/11/2021

From Amount Merville Barracks to Ben Nevis in 24hr . . . . . . .£142.50 Anonymous . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£359.00 Marjory Robertson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£10.48 Hayley Costanzo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£15.00 CAFGYE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£5.00 1 Royal Anglian LAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£75.00 Lifting the Decks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£80.00 Payroll Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£1.94 3DSR LAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£15.00 IMO Roy Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£50.00 IMO Richard (Lofty) Croft-Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£25.00 Sam Melvin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£7.50 Nik Brock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£5.24 Cpl Mountford - 5 Marathons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£114.11 REME Association Ashford Branch . . . . . . . . . . .£250.00 Date sent to Craftsman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30/11/2021 Total Donations (Nov) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£1,155.77 Total £’s paid in Grants (Nov) . . . . . . . . . . . . .£21,175.40 No. Grants (Nov) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Average Grant (Nov) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£441.15

If you would like to see how your money is spent, we welcome one or two observers at The REME Charity meetings. The meetings are held midweek, approximately every three weeks. If you would like to observe a meeting, please contact The REME Charity Secretary on ( Mil: 95481 4527 or Civ: 01249 894527 in the first instance. The REME Charity is here for both veterans and serving personnel in times of hardship or need. Contact via SSAFA ( 0800 731 4880 www.ssafa.org.uk or The Royal British Legion ( 0808 802 8080  www.britishlegion.org.uk or your Unit Welfare if serving. All enquiries and information is dealt with in the strictest confidence. If you wish to discuss any benevolence need you can contact us on ( 01249 894523.

Anyone wishing to leave a legacy to The REME Charity, which is exempt from inheritance tax, can add a codicil to their will. Our registered charity number is 1165868

The Corps Communications Team Are you emailing the right person? The Cra�sman Magazine Editor Cra�smanEditor@reme-rhq.org.uk The Digital Media Manager Dawn.Cainey100@learn.mod.uk Change of postal address Subscrip�ons@reme-rhq.org.uk Submissions (Digital and Print) remerhq-comms-groupmailbox@mod.gov.uk Other Communica�ons and Media requests remerhq-comms-groupmailbox@mod.gov.uk

Before submitting an article you are requested to read the guidelines on the inside front cover 45

Corps Calendar 2022 More information regarding Corps Mess Functions can found by scanning the QR Code, or by accessing the ‘REME Connect’ website or alternatively email; REMERHQ-0Mailbox@mod.gov.uk for all general enquiries.

JANUARY 2022 19

Commanding Officers CABAL

Corps Dinner Night

Corps Colonels Command Group

REME Reserves Management Board (Teams)

RAJA Careers and Employment Support Event (Catterick)

FEBRUARY 2022

Beating the Retreat and Cocktail Party

Institution AGM and Corps Officers’ Mess AGM

TBC

Corps Council Meeting

29-30

REME Festival of Sport (FoS)

REME Sports Association Awards Dinner Night

J U LY 2 0 2 2

5-12

Ex SNOW SPANNER

Corps Ball

Regimental Guest Night

REME Reserve Management Board

Regimental Sunday at Royal Hospital Chelsea

MARCH 2022 08

Corps ASM Forum (MoD Lyneham)

Corps WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess Dinner Night

AUGUST 2022

Corps Conference (South)

SEPTEMBER 2022

Corps Council Meeting

REME Colonels Comd Gp

Corps Conference (North)

TBC

Corps Dinner Night

Corps Mess & REME Inst Exec Meeting

TBC

Charity Trustee Workshop

REME Institution Dinner (Formerly Retired Officers’ Dinner)

REME Institution and Corps HQ Officers Mess Executive Meeting

National Memorial Arboretum

APRIL 2022

No Organised Events

06-07

RSM Forum

Corps WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess Dinner Night Moved to 08 March 2022

Spring Guest Dinner Night Postponed to 05 May 2022

Corps 80th Birthday

TBC

Airborne Officers’ Dinner Night

22-25

REME Association Weekend (Nottingham), see back pages for more details

TBC

Commando Officers’ Dinner Night

REME Reserves Management Board (Lyneham)

TBC

REME QM Dinner Night

Broxhead Dinner Night

TBC

REME Reserve conference

Engineering Awards Lunch (Provisional)

MG REME Conference

TBC

Corps Autumn Guest Night

M AY 2 0 2 2 05

Jnr Officers Seminar and Dinner Night Postponed to 12 May 2022

Corps Spring Guest Dinner Night

OCTOBER 2022

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 2 TBC

Corps WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess Dinner Night

Jnr Officers Seminar and Dinner Night

TBC

Corps Council Meeting

STEM UTCs Craftsman Cup Final (MoD Lyneham)

Ex SUPREME GLACIER Commences

Field of Remembrance

Corps Colonels Command Group

Corps Dinner Night

JUNE 2022 02/09

Founders Day at Royal Hospital Chelsea (Provisional)

46 craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk

DECEMBER 2022 01

St Eligius Day

Ex SUPREME GLACIER Finishes

TBC

Artiﬁcers SM Forum

REME Reunion Weekend 2022 To be held ld at: 4* Eastwood Hallll Hotel, Mansfield Road, Eastwood, Nottingham, NG16 3SS

Friday 22nd to Monday 25th Aprill 2022 Eitherr 1, 2 or 3 nights Half lf Board, en suite accommodation A 15% reduction in normal bar prices will apply all weekend Pre-Dinner Drinks receptions Friday and Saturday Gala Night Dinner and Port for the loyal toast Live entertainment each evening Free use of swimming pool and gymnasium facilities Saturday coach shuttle service to and from Nottingham city centre Numerous daytime fun activities throughout the weekend

Option 1 - 3 nights package £224 perr pers rson Option 2 - 2 nights package £174 perr pers rson Option 3 - 1 night package £95 perr person (Limited availa labilility) BOOKING FORM Package Choice(s) (Please indicate quantity required) Option 1 ________ Option 2 ________ Option 3 ________ Personall Details ls REME Assn Branch (if applicable) ______________________________ Name ________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________ Post Code____________________________________________________ Mobile/Telephone Number _____________________________________ Additional names included in this booking: ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ Total number of guests inclu luded in this booking _____ Numberr of Rooms required re Double ____ Twin ____ Single ____ Whilst every effort will be made to accommodate all special requests this can only be done on a first come first served basis and cannot be guaranteed. A limited number of disabled rooms are available.

Speciall Require rements (dietary/walking/hearing difficulties etc) ______________________________________________________________ All prices are inclusive of VAT at the current rate. Book Now to avoid disappointment, places are limited. Cheques to be made payable to IOW IO Tours Please return this form with your remittance to: Mount Pleasant (IO IOW) Ltd trading as IOW IO Tours 51 High Street, Shanklin, Isle Is of Wight. PO37 6JJ JJ *** Bookings can also be made by credit/debit card at the number below *** Tel elephone (01983) 405116

In 26 acres of landscaped gardens, this hotel is 15 minutes’ walk from central Eastwood, the birthplace of DH Lawrence. It has a fitness centre, outdoor tennis court, indoor swimming pool and sauna.

Itinerary Friday 15:00 13:00

Arrive Lounge bar in the foyer opens

17:30 18:30 20:00

Welcome Drink Dinner Fun Casino and entertainment

Saturday 07:30

Breakfast Coach Shuttle to Nottingham City

*** V a r i o u s d a y t i m e a c t i v i t i e s *** 16:15 18:15 19:15

Standards Rehearsal Standards Parade Gala Dinner and entertainment

07:30 09:00 09:30 10:15 10:30 18:30 Monday

Breakfast Padre & Standards Rehearsal Church Service with Standards Tea/Coffee and Biscuits REME Association Conference Dinner

Sunday

07:00 11:00

Breakfast Final Departures

www.iowtours.com

ALL HOLIDAYS ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. SPACE IS NOT GUARANTEED UNTIL THE DEPOSIT IS PAID. Our Trading Charter (our T&Cs) can be viewed on our website www.iowtours.com

Craftsman Magazine - January 2022

Articles inside

REME Association Branch – South Africa

Corps Notices

Corps Clay Pigeon Shooting

Corps WOs’ and Sgts’ Autumn Dinner Night 2021

Op MAKARA 3

Junior Leaders Unit

Corps Cross Country Championships 2021

Corps Enduro Open Days

Telling the Tale of the TDS, BATUK

Corps Netball