Magazine of the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
In 2020, REME launched the Lifting the Decks initiative, with a focus on the mental wellbeing of serving REME personnel and veterans.
We are in the process of re昀ning Lifting the Decks, increasing accessibility with an added emphasis on reminding our REME Family to speak out about ‘what’s on their mind’ and that, whatever stage in their life, we will always be here to listen to and support them.
If there is something on your mind troubling you, big or small, whatever the cause, we are here to listen and to help. If you wish to get in touch regarding yourself or concern for someone else, please don’t hesitate to contact woym@remecharity.org
Acting Editor: Mrs Sarah Eden + Corporate Communications Officer
RHQ REME, The Prince Philip Barracks, Lyneham, CHIPPENHAM, SN15 4XX
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.
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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.
General Handling: This publication contains official information and should be treated with discretion.
Army Personnel Centre REME Officer Wing
Scribe: Lt Col Kelly Tait
Career Management Responsibilities
The first point of contact for Career management (CM) is your line Manager and the Regimental Career Management Officer (RCMO) or Adjutant for officers.
The Army Personnel Centre (APC) assure, support, advise and also enable assignments and promotions in-line with policy to enhance the Army’s Operational Capability. However, APC is only part of the CM Eco-System. CM is a whole Army activity, as soldiers, officers and leaders you must take more ownership of your our own and your subordinates professional and personal development.
The APC has created some extremely useful tools on Defence Connect to help. The CM PORTAL should definitely be among your regular calling points. This app provides access to all the information about your career so far and future opportunities; including contract information, assignment information and your annual reports – so you can scan back and look in detail at the areas you might need to develop. It also gives you sight of an abundance of job opportunities available.
As leaders you should also be thinking about how you can support those you lead by playing your role in the CM EcoSystem by setting objectives, coaching and mentoring, providing development opportunities and providing timely and accurate Mid-Period Appraisal Reports (MPAR) and Annual Reports (AR). We should all be keeping ourselves abreast of our training needs while setting goals and considering where we eventually want our careers to take us.
Aspire to be one of those people to help others and let’s be thinking about what we can do.
CM Questions
CM policy varies depending on rank, cap badge and terms of service. All CM policy is open source on MODNet and Defence Connect and can be found by using the search tools, however, if you don’t know what you are looking for, it can be challenging. Most CM policy can be found on the APC Defence Connect policy portal. It is important to use the expertise of unit RCMOs or Adjutants due to the nature of policy being owned by APC and individual cap badges; as well as some other stakeholders. The different documents and policies need to be read in conjunction with each other.
The APC has a tool called Ask a Question in the APC, on the APC Defence Connect page. This tool is a great resource that allows all serving personnel to engage with the APC directly regarding general career/policy advice but not individual cases.
Officers Posting Preference Submissions Guidance
All posting preferences are submitted on CM PORTAL now and Officers are invited to a PPP webinar to understand best practise prior to submitting their PPP before boards. Officers are very much encouraged to treat this submission as a very important piece of staff work. Career Management advice when completing your CM Portal Personal Profile submission is; be accurate and clear, read the Job Specs, speak to the Career Field Manager for details on the E2 posts and listen to the guidance from your Career Manager.
Your front page (Profile comments on CM PORTAL) includes
Kentigern House, Glasgow
general considerations and personal and domestic considerations. This should be where you explain your aspirations and your red lines. You must sell a narrative and think, what job would I get if I only submitted my profile comments.
An outline of best practice profile comments structure is detailed below for further guidance.
Work Force Demand
At present demand outstrips supply, the average fill rate trends on boards is OF2 (Capt) - 62%, OF3 (Maj) - 57% and OF4 (Lt Col) - 63%. Not revolutionary and likely has been the case for years but set against work force demand dynamic the trend of willingness to deploy/travel overseas from OF2-4 remains an acute concern. A snapshot at present depicts a trend that OF2s do not routinely struggle to fill OCE and overseas posts. OF2s are on average more mobile or keen to deploy, this presents AHR opportunities for our Capts. The OF3 cohort appear to be settling earlier in careers than before, however, it is still the case that the OF3 community is much more likely to want to deploy or fill overseas assignments. In general, the Army are also seeing Officers more likely to be location fixed earlier than before partly down to NEM/slowdown in promotion and the wish to work flexibly. This increase in location focus has, in part, resulted in increased directed posts, certainly in OF 3/4 space over Capts.
report showing the crime and the punishment only, which stayed on the personal record for a few months or a few short years and then was simply removed. The annual report remained unaltered, so no historic evidence of poor behaviour was ever captured. But given the drive to expose toxic leadership and to capture these negative behaviours, APC now has the authority to reopen old reports and get reporting officers to capture the evidence of poor behaviour, without reference to the offence/sanction.
The positive news is that despite this tension there is still a high percentage at each board obtaining high positive preferences. Proportionally low numbers are being directed with the backdrop of supply vs demand, APC are doing the best we can in this respect. This is all with a backdrop of Trawls, Blue List (promotion to Col) pull and whilst AHR provides an opportunity to gain KSE it can be a double-edged sword in denuding numbers further at the lower rank.
CM policy Updates
JSP757 Update to capture poor behaviours following Major Administrative Action (MAA) or Disciplinary action. On occasions in the past there has been examples of poor behaviour that were established through MAA and found proven, which then led to Removal from Appointment. However, for some reason the poor behaviour was not captured in the Annual Report that was written coincident with the Action taking place. In the very recent past the offender would have received a DASC
APC Glasgow CSS, REME Officers
APC REME Officers SO1
Lt Col Kelly Tait Kelly.Tait356@mod.gov.uk
DE and LE Lt Cols
APC REME Officers 1 E1
Mrs Maureen Connell Maureen.Connell588@mod.gov.uk
SO1 REME LE Officers
Lt Col Lindsay Kinghorn Lindsay.Kinghorn932@mod.gov.uk LE Majors
APC REME Officers LE E1
Ms Anne Marie Rush Anne-marie.rush569@mod.gov.uk
Removal of the 2RO performance narrative for army personnel. The requirement for a 2RO Performance narrative for eligible Army SP has ceased with immediate effect, less for specific reasons (refer to JSP 757) and applies for all ARs (including advanced ARs). Routinely, the narrative box is only to state: I agree/do not agree with the 1RO’s performance assessment’.
Single RO and Senior OF3. Future Soldier re-structuring led to gaps in ‘natural’ reporting chains, especially at OF3 (1RO OF4 missing). To mitigate this, policy has been implemented to ensure subjects receive an AR written by a RO of appropriate seniority who can report on them accurately. For officers up to and including OF3 a ‘Single RO’ reporting chain will apply where the 1RO is an OF5 (Col) with no OF6 (Brig) 2RO or the 1RO is an OF6 and, in either situation, an OF7 (Maj Gen) could be expected to be the 2RO. Under such circumstances, the OF5/6 is authorised to be a Single RO and will complete Pt 1 of the OJAR. In Part 2, the phrase ‘Accept grades / recommendations’ and ‘Single RO Authorised’ will be added in the 2RO Perf box by the Administrator. An OF7 becomes involved only when Potential recommendations necessitate a 3RO contribution. In units where there is no established OF4, an OF3 (usually the COS or DCOS) may perform the duties of RO for those ranks who would normally attract an OF4 as their 2RO.
SO2a REME Officers
Maj Pete Hockley peter.hockley783@mod.gov.uk
DE Majors
SO2b REME Officers
Maj Gary Copeland Gary.Copeland100@mod.gov.uk DE Captains
The Team
SO2c REME Officers
Reserve Majors alexander.gilfillan259@mod.gov.uk
Reserve Majors
Agnostic appointing for Army officer jobs. Agnostic appointing is now in place. In preparation for this era of skills into boarding, of skills matching and talent management, as well as a future where professions are becoming a key aspect of selection, our rules dictate that differentiation between candidates is to be far less proscriptive in the use of old language.
We have stopped using comments such as LE preferred or DE preferred. E1 only or requesting that only soldiers from a certain cap-badge need apply.
Best practice profile comments structure
5 RIFLES BG LAD –Exercise IRON CYCLONE
BG EME: Capt Matt Chapman REME
BG ASM: ASM (WO1) Dean Inocco
Scribe: SSgt Stephen Jones B Coy Ftr Sect & SSgt Steve Scott 4 Fd Sqn Ftr Sect
As part of the Op CABRIT 14 Pathway 5 Rifles Battle Group (BG) deployed to Sennelager in early September 2023 to conduct pre-deployment training. The training and the impending German winter promised to be challenging, however, the greatest challenge of the Exercise would be rehabilitating the fleet to a deployable standard.
HOTO/Rehabilitation
The bulk of 5 RIFLES BG along with all attached LAD members, under the command of Capt Matt Chapman, deployed to Normandy Barracks in early September to begin the handover of the fleet from
the previous BG. A small team from the 5 Rifles BG deployed in advance of the main body to conduct the HOTO. The advance party had limited time to conduct assurance checks in order to set the Members of the LAD were spread to the winds with Class 1 VI’s working in Athlone Barracks, completing an impressive 96 MEIs under the supervision of OC Wksp LRF(S), WF (which included most of the Armourers/Techs) supporting the armoured range packages, repair teams on the area supporting training and what was left working in the lovely weather conditions experienced in Germany during late autumn/winter.
The LAD had reinforcements sent from the UK to assist with the
Tiffys on their night shoot
One of many late night pack changes
ever-growing BGHQ fleet which saw a select few deploy to Germany, this was a flying visit for Cfn Martin as he lasted two days before breaking some fingers, shouting for morphine and then being sent home having spent all of his LSA/LOA in the NAAFI on his first night in the country. Despite the dispersal of the LAD all training requirements were achieved, and this was down to the tireless effort from all members of the BG LAD, the unsung heroes of the BG, who without them the TLs would never have been met.
Ex CABRIT TEMPEST
Ex CABRIT TEMPEST was the deployment of the BG including the CR2 Sqn from the QRH with the aim of achieving TL E in the preparation for CPX in the new year. Despite the frigid temperatures, often reaching -10°C, the exercise was a welcome change to the Groundhog Day that had become the norm for the LAD, and it potentially meant more rest than had been experienced in barracks. Thanks to the monumental effort by all, the exercise went by with only the usual issues and break downs, unless you were in the CR2 Sqn. Their platforms had been thoroughly used throughout
LAD SNCOs at the Christmas Markets
Cpl Drury and his WR 512 in the snow
BG Dinner night
the training season and SSgt James Sowersby and his Fitter Section were feeling the brunt of this. Working throughout the night to ensure at least nine CR2 platforms were ready for the days training, only to finish the next day with only one or two platforms still moving under their own steam. This was a common theme that was maintained until the end of exercise.
Throughout the exercise the BG ASM, WO1 Dean Inocco, completed his very own Recovery Camp, often seen out on the Senne holding the hand of SSgt Scott Kimmings completing any recovery tasks in the SV(R) that were available, and with the Engineers deploying in MRW variants there were multiple. In hindsight, someone really should have shown them how to engage diff locks.
Overall, it was a good if not tiring deployment for the BG LAD, all Fitter Section developed their trade competency and team cohesion, and the BG achieved their TL’s. The LAD was now in a good place, ready for Op CABRIT 14 and even more ready for some well-deserved Christmas leave.
Dual pack lifts
Sgt Taylor hiding in the woods
ASM ready for some graft
Cpl Drury woken from a nap under a Panther
Where’s your covvies ASM
OP LINOTYPER 24 – 10 QOGLR LAD
Scribe: SSgt Steve Bradley
Op LINOTYPER (OP LT24) saw the largest scale UK deployment in decades. 101 Operational Sustainment Brigade was tasked with logistically supporting the numerous exercises that were all formed under the OP LT24 umbrella, and so 10 The Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (10 QOGLR) took the task of establishing 3 Locations across Germany and Poland to support 7 Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team (7LMBCT). As REME, our aim was to establish ES locations and support 10 QOGLR so that they in turn could provide Logistics to Convoy Support Centres (CSC) as the Brigade passed through them. The three locations established were Divisional Supply Area (DSA) 1 at Holzdorf in Germany, DSA 2 at Drawsco Promorski Training Area (DPTA) in Poland, and Forward Log Node at Grupa in Poland.
Scribe: LCpl Tiko
Under 36 (HQ) Sqn, a small LAD team, under the command of Capt Rich Ward (OC LAD), were aligned to Holzdorf in Germany. Our first task was to establish DSA 1, preparing for our support role during the 7LMBCT deployment. The workload was significant, with countless vehicles requiring maintenance and inspection. Everyone worked tirelessly to set up for the weeks ahead.
The end of February marked the beginning of the crucial CSC period. 7LMBCT was deployed to Poland, with a scheduled stop at Holzdorf for refuelling, rest and vehicle inspections. It was a hectic 8 days, with our team working around the clock to ensure everything was in order. We worked closely with 5 Bn REME, conducting repairs
at all levels. The coordination was seamless, and despite the intensity, we accomplished the mission and the Brigade moved on to their next stop without any major issues.
Once the CSC period had ended, we found the time to enjoy a well-deserved break. Under the supervision of Lt McCarte, we visited Berlin for a cultural trip. It was refreshing to step away from the DSA and immerse ourselves in the history and the sights of the city. We visited the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, Brandenberg Gate, as well as several war memorials. It was an unforgettable experience, and everyone appreciated the downtime. We returned to the DSA, rejuvenated and ready to tackle our ongoing responsibilities.
The final weeks of the exercise have been focussed on maintaining vehicles and preparing for the transition to handover to 27 Regt RLC, who assume the task in April. It has been a challenging and rewarding experience, and our team has grown stronger through our shared efforts. At the end of our deployment we cannot help but feel proud of what we have accomplished.
Scribe: LCpl Rai
Once we had conducted Reception, Staging, Onward movement, and Integration (RSOI) under 9 Bn REME in Sennelager, we deployed out to DSA 2 in DPTA with a short stop at DSA1. This DSA came under the command structure of 31 Sqn, with the attached Fitter Section under the command of SSgt Bradley. The areas allocated were not ideal for bigger jobs and so our first task was to set up an MoU with the US Army so that we could use some of their Workshop space.
They were extremely forthcoming and gave us a large area to work from. February was one of the wettest ever recorded, and this posed a problem for the White Fleet articulated lorries and MegaLift lorries; this ensured our Recovery Mechanics were employed on a regular basis until Cpl Beevor, on one of his short stints in theatre when not playing Rugby, managed to gather a sizeable workforce and lay some honeycomb flooring down. This gave the HGVs the required traction and the Recovery Mechanics utilised their time by delivering EC training.
The end of Feb saw our first CSC establishment; Sgt Dennis Tsorme took an intimate team, where they tirelessly delivered inspections and repairs for 7LMBCT.
Once the CSC had recovered back to DPTA, we managed to enjoy a short break and so trips were organised to both Szczecin and Krakow. We were given the opportunity to experience all that was on offer, from the rich history of the Old Town to the sombre insight into Auschwitz. Upon our return, we were straight back into preparing vehicles in readiness for the next CSC, this one led by Sgt Mark Rivers. Cfn Thorne showed his dedication during this CSC, chasing down vehicles with his toolbox as they tried to leave before he had sourced spares to fit; earning a 7 LMBCT Comd Coin.
As we entered the last phase of the exercise, we prepared to hand over our large vehicle fleet to 27 Regt RLC in good order, so that they stand the best chance possible of success during their optimisation phase.
Scribe: Cfn Smit
The Fwd Log Node was not scheduled to be established until later in the deployment so we spent a considerable amount of time working from DPTA. Whilst this meant we were centralised and able to concentrate workforce where required, we eagerly awaited the end of Feb so that we could deploy forward under the command of Sgt Tsorme and establish our own ES location. The move out to Grupa went extremely well, with no reported issues whatsoever, and our arrival at Grupa was as scheduled. The first fault reported, was on Cpl Taylor’s SV(R) of which I was commander. The radiator had sprung a major leak, and whilst awaiting a replacement part, we worked with our host nation force to fix the leak.
The site at Grupa was more well suited for ES delivery than we were used to in DPTA, at Grupa, with dedicated workshop space that included a brake test machine, a pit, and hard cover. Our accommodation was also upgraded, from 150-man tents to 2-man flats.
Our shorter deployment at Grupa saw us delivering ES to a large variety of vehicles, including Enhanced Pallet Load System (EPLS), Close Support Tanker (CST) – water and fuel, Land Rovers and more.
This was my first deployment as a VM in a recovery asset, and we provided recovery to 7LMBCT on a near constant basis. I was extremely grateful to be given the opportunity to enhance my exposure to different roles within REME, and welcome future opportunities.
Our recovery back to DPTA also saw us assisting the US army with their recovery phase, before readying the vehicles for 27 Regt RLC to take them over. We wish them all the best on their phase of the deployment and look forward to the next challenge!
Forward Log Node
DSA2
Ex SNOW SUPPORT 24
Week 1 Skiing Foundation 1
Scribe: WO1 (ASM) Olivier
As an ASM I never dreamt that I would get the opportunity to go Skiing, but I grabbed it when it unexpectedly presented itself as Ex SNOW SUPPORT 2024; yet, ready to step aside for younger volunteers who would inevitably come forward. Thankfully, no one did step forward no doubt aided by the fact that Regional Command is a little on the top-heavy side. I would get the opportunity to complete Skiing Foundation 1, in the picturesque Stubai Glacier! Naturally, I did not show my childlike excitement to my respected colleagues. I was not disappointed; this was one of the most challenging and enjoyable weeks of my career.
The ages of our group varied greatly from 20 to 61 years of age as did our ranks, myself, falling smack bang in the middle at age 40. The old helped the young and the young helped the old, it gave our group a very special dynamic. Our Instructor, Captain Mike Jones, was outstanding and would not tolerate a fixed mindset no matter how scared we were. The weather was different each day and that offered experience in all weather conditions. But on Thursday the weather forecast was outstanding with low temperatures and 7 hours of sunshine inviting us to push our limits.
We all learned how to use the equipment and control our speed using a simple “snowplough” on Monday. Through hard work, mutual encouragement and a lot of patience from Mike, we progressed steadily and surprisingly quickly to a few of us parallel Skiing already by the end of day one, along steady blue runs, the easiest runs you get in Austria.
On Tuesday we had about a foot of fresh snow and due to the sun shining through immense fog providing only indirect sunlight we could not see any undulations on the snow. However, not deterred by the difficult visibility, Mike decided to capitalise on the fresh snow that slowed us down substantially by taking us down our first red route.
One or two of us nearly suffered a cardiac arrest when he said we were going down a red. But we all got down in one piece, well, sort off. One individual, who shall remain unnamed, being petrified, decided to turn close to another frozen in fear and ended up unintentionally wiping her clean out. He went straight through and left her hugging his one ski that came off in the collision; like a treasured teddy bear. After a checkover and motivational speech by Mike, we continued, and all made it safely down. The oldest member of our team flared up an old injury and had to sit out the next day to rest it, but he was back on Thursday. On Wednesday, those who could ski had an amazing day with decent weather and continual progression.
On Thursday morning I said to Mike: “Today is
WO2 Trueman leading the way
Sgt Dan Longstaff deciding the next route
the day.” “Day for what?” “Well, the weather forecast is good, so if we want to ski down the mountain, today is the day.” “No”, he said, “we need to progress at the slowest person’s pace.” I was a little disappointed. A few minutes later, however, after the head Instructor’s morning safety and weather update, Mike announces to us all: “Guys, we are going to ski down the mountain this morning! Is everyone up for it?” Slowly everyone nodded in determination, internally welling with excitement mingled with fear...mostly fear.
That morning was outstanding! I’ll be honest, there were a few occasions when I thought I might die, but no one did. We all got down in one piece this time proving that we had made enormous progress. On the way up in the gondola looking at the awesome snow-covered mountains I could only praise God, for His handiwork. Best of all, I shared this amazing experience with a remarkable group of people who made it both meaningful and memorable. If you have not been Skiing yet, you need to get on it!
Week 2
A week of Skiing Adventures at Stubai Glacier: Conquering Challenges and Embracing Learning
Scribe: Sgt Thompson
Our week-long Skiing escapade at Stubai Glacier promised thrills, spills, and the exhilarating rush of adrenaline on pristine slopes. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Austrian Alps, Stubai Glacier is a haven for Skiing enthusiasts of all levels; offering a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes and challenging terrain. However, our journey was not without its fair share of unexpected twists and turns, as we navigated through nature’s challenges while immersing ourselves in the joys of skiing.
The adventure commenced with eager anticipation as we arrived at Stubai Glacier, greeted by the majestic sight of snow-capped peaks and endless possibilities for outdoor exploration. Excitement filled the air as seasoned skiers and eager novices alike prepared to conquer the slopes. Little did we know that our week would be marked by a series of unforeseen events that would put our skills and resilience to the test.
One such challenge arose on a day when the risk of avalanches loomed large; casting a shadow over our plans for Skiing. With safety as our utmost priority, our experienced Instructors and local authorities deemed it unsafe to venture onto the slopes. Instead of lamenting the missed opportunity, we embraced the chance to learn other skills such as ski touring route planning and avalanche awareness training.
As if nature hadn’t thrown us enough curveballs, another obstacle presented itself in the form of relentless winds sweeping across the glacier. Determined to make the most of our time on the mountain, we adjusted our plans and sought refuge at another ski centre Schlick 2000 a short bus ride away.
Amidst the challenges, a beacon of excitement shone through with the introduction of Ski Foundation courses catering to skiers of varying skill levels. Beginners eagerly enrolled in the Ski Foundation 1 course, receiving expert instruction and guidance as they took their first tentative
Ski Touring in the deep
Through the trees
slides down the slopes. Meanwhile, those returning to Skiing after a long hiatus found solace and support in the Ski Foundation 1 Continuation course; designed to ease them back into the sport with confidence and finesse.
For the more adventurous souls seeking to push their boundaries, the Ski Foundation 3 course beckoned with the promise of ski touring, an exhilarating blend of Skiing and mountaineering that offered a unique perspective on the alpine landscape. Led by an experienced instructor, participants embarked on epic journeys into the backcountry, forging their paths through untouched powder and immersing themselves in the untamed beauty of the wilderness.
As the week drew to a close, we looked back on our Skiing odyssey with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. Despite the challenges we faced, from avalanche risks to high winds, our spirits remained undaunted, fuelled by the sheer joy of Skiing and the bonds forged amidst adversity. Our week at Stubai Glacier was not just a Skiing trip, it was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the beauty of nature, and the transformative power of adventure.
The Latest P Company Passes
Congratulations to the newest members of Airborne REME having passed the All Arms Pre Parachute Selection (P Company). They undertook 3.5 weeks of gruelling physical tests, showing all the hallmarks of what it means to be an airborne soldier; including self-discipline, physical and mental robustness, and motivation, earning their maroon berets on 8 May 2024.
On 26th April The REME Golf Society had their first outing of the year at Blackpool North Shore Golf Course, playing for the coveted Spring Trophy.
With the sun shining the course was looking in fine fettle from the clubhouse window. Everyone arrived and breakfast was served courtesy of Northwest Catering Ltd. We then had our morning brief and headed outside in the sun for the group photo.
Time to kit up and head to the practice area and first Tee, where it
went downhill, the putting Green was out of use and the rough was knee high, there was one practice net available, somewhere. We were accompanied by 2 local photographers Roxy C photography https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61552476605476 and Chloe, who have sent me some incredible photos. The Golf started and if you weren’t looking for your ball on each hole you were on to a winner. The rough was so thick, or was it fairway, that my electric trolley snapped on the
Winner in action!
Andy Maine the days winner!
Anthony Parkinson Runner up
3rd hole and with the pro shop closed there was no opportunity to use a trolley.
The Golf was completed, and we went upstairs for a drink, a 2course meal and the prize giving for the day’s events.
Chris Kilbride was 3rd with 33 points and the only 2 of the day, made a him a double winner on the day, receiving a bottle of Gin, some cash and a box of balls.
Anthony Parkinson was 2nd with 34 points receiving a 4ball voucher for Hallowes GC Dronfield, near Sheffield.
Andy Main was the winner of the Spring Meet winning our version of the Claret jug for Spring and a 4ball Voucher from The 59club, that he can use on a multitude of prestigious courses. He will also have to
fork out for the engraving ready for it to be brought back next spring meet.
All prizes were donated by businesses, so if anybody would be interested in sponsoring or donating prizes for our events going forwards then please get in touch.
We are now an Association with the REME Charity, our details can be found on the REME connect website. We also have a group on Facebook where our next meets are listed.
Places still available for Bradley Hall Halifax 5th July
Horsley Lodge Derbyshire 30th August
Mizuno Pairs Event 4th 0ct Hull
A thoroughly enjoyable day was had by all.
Group photo
REME Netball Overseas Sports Visit to Spain – April 2024
Scribe: LCpl Jasmin Cope
The REME Netball Team embarked on a 5-day tour to Lloret de Mar, Spain. Having the opportunity to play high level teams such as Barcelona Netball Club and many others. The team showcased the values and standards for REME personnel, with sportsmanship to the highest level, taking the opportunity to achieve major developments of the squad.
Lt Col Laura Ellis and Maj Jennifer Thomas collaborated to ensure the REME Netball Team were fit and ready to go. A two-day tournament is what awaited. A condensed schedule filled with lots of games but with the opportunity for recovery yoga and the opportunity to do aqua aerobics within the timeframe.
The first day of the Netball tournament brought both excitement and challenge as our team secured a hard-fought victory. Despite facing tough opponents, we showcased resilience and teamwork throughout the match. The team Captain LCpl Jasmine Cope helped to maintain a positive attitude on court and established her dominance as the Centre position. Every player gave their all, displaying skill and determination on the court. LCpl Chloe Western used her position at centre court Wing Attack with accurate drives, a key consistent player on the squad throughout the first day. Whilst LCpl Carys Ives showcased her defence ability within the defence D playing Goal Defence gaining possession from oppositions
Lt Col Laura Ellis showing her determination to get the ball
Team Capt being awarded to LCpl Cope by Lt Col Ellis
The team waiting to board the plane at Gatwick Airport
rebounds. Lt Col Ellis displayed her accurate shooting and movement around attacking D to secure the goals. As the day closed on day one it was a mammoth day filled exhilarating Netball. To recover the girls embraced the Spanish culture getting involved in Batcha classes and utilising the pool for active recovery.
Day two of the tournament was a success, with several wins against opposing teams. Lt Col Laura Ellis and Maj Jennifer Thomas coaching and playing alongside the team developed some new players to a high standard. On her debut to REME Netball, Cpl Leah Reynolds intercepted the ball consistently throughout the tournament and showed the qualities required by a REME Netball player with confidence and passion for the game. Cfn Gabrielle Brooker used her versatile skill set to play Goal Attack and Goal Keeper throughout the course of day two showing great energy throughout the day.
The tour also included a day visit to the local town to look at the churches and local cultures. The tour concluded with an awards evening at which every member of the squad was awarded a local hand-crafted plate.
REME Netball would kindly like to thank Allan Webb Ltd and Van Kappel Ltd for their financial support; without which this overseas sports visit would not have been possible.
Netball squad pre-tournament
Great move by Cfn Ellway in GS position
Back Row L to R – Larkin, Burn, Logan, Ives, Tester, Ellway, Ellis, Thomas, Brooker Front Row L-R Reynolds, Weston, Price Cope (Team Captain)
EX DRAGON SNIPER 24 –REME Corps Operational Shooting Competition Training
101 Operation Sustainment Brigade delivered the Army Corps Operational Shooting Competition (OSC) between 5 – 14 Apr 24. This OSC was centralised in the South East Lands range training area, delivered across Ash, Pirbright and Barossa Ranges. 5 Force Support Battalion REME formed a Battalion OSC team and provided a range training opportunity to all REME Major and Minor units in preparation to enter the Corps OSC. Corps teams will compete for honours, and attempt to qualify for entry to the Army OSC in Jun 24.
Entry to the Army OSC allows OSC teams to compete against the best firers in the British Army and individually compete for a place in the prestigious top Army 100 scoring firers in each year. An individual placing in the Army 100 at the Army OSC is recognised for a Soldiers entire career through that individual being able to wear the badge of the Army 100 on all standards of Army dress.
Competition shooting in the British Army started in 1874 with ‘non-central’ matches on unit ranges. The ‘Army VIII’ was formed in
the same year, its purpose was to select a team for Inter-Service matches organised by the British National Rifle Association. The Army Rifle Association (ARA) which was founded in 1893, became the governing body of service shooting. It was formed to encourage interest in service shooting to “promote interest in small arms shooting for service purposes by means of collective competitions, matches being framed to induce practice in methods which led to increased efficiency on the battlefield”. Data from OSCs remains to be a source of information to inform the British Army’s shooting standards to this day. By the 1970s, all three services had established their own competitions and associations, the Army’s going under the name of ‘Regular Army Skill at Arms Meeting’ or RASAM. Gradually evolving, the event’s name was changed to the ‘Army Operational Shooting Competition’ in 2009.
Figure targets were first used in 1908. The Electric Target Range (ETR) came on stream in 1967. A moving target match was
Corps Operational Shooting Team
Scribe: Capt Griffiths (5 FS Bn REME)
Army 100 Badge
introduced in 1974 with two Infantry night shooting matches being competed-for initially in 1982. Firing in respirators and a ‘march and shoot’ competition was introduced in 1986. Casualty recovery and the carrying of 15 kg (33 lb) of personal equipment was brought in 2009. The REME, as a Corps would regularly have in excess of 100 REME Soldiers who would attend the Army OSC prior to the COVID period. On average 8 annually would perform to the standard which would allow them to be presented with their Army 100 badge. This year attendance on the Corps OSC has been disappointingly low due to the tempo of unit taskings such as Op LYNOTYPER. But, all in the Corps should strive to enable maximum possible attendance of our REME Soldiers in such a fundamental Soldiering activity.
SSgt Luke Moore – 8 Training Battalion REME
After managing to scrape together 4 people to represent 8 Training Battalion REME at the upcoming Corps OSC 24 (2 of which being phase 2 trainees), some exposure to operational shooting was desperately needed. The 2-week range concentration was the perfect opportunity to do exactly that. Once zeroing and the Annual Combat Marksmanship Test (ACMT) were out of the way, the proper introduction to Operational shooting began. LCpl Hughes was the first to admit he was ‘not a natural good shot’ after achieving and impressive 8 out of 160 in the first practice of the Advance to Contact Match. What could clearly be seen by the end of the day however, is the excellent coaching and range time delivered on this package having an effect. By the end of the day LCpl Hughes enhanced his score to 96 out of 160. The same can be said for Cfn Smith, who has shown excellent upward progression in his scores throughout the two weeks, as well as greatly improved weapon handling techniques. As for myself I have had experience of this 2 weeks before and know how valuable this range package will be when it comes to the competition. This is an excellent opportunity to introduce new Service Personnel to the world of operational shooting, or offer a refresher to anyone who hasn’t done it in a while. It shows that ranges can be so much more interesting and engaging than the annual ACMT. It is recommended for anyone who has even the slightest interest in shooting.
shooting from Cpl Michael “Aiming High” Amanis with his 120 points from a possible 150 at his first attempt after missing the morning Points of Aim Session on the Short Range Rural Contact assessment. On day 4 Cpl James “Rendog Millionaire” Rennie joined the team and immediately demonstrated his love of efficiency by being bang on zeroed with his first round.
SSgt Hitchen – 1 AAC Wksp
With Corps OSC looming and with only one member of the team having any Operational Shooting experience, 1 Regiment Army Air Corps Workshops Operational Shooting Team AKA “the Dream Team” decided to deploy on the build-up training organised by 5 Bn REME. The benefits of this decision were proven on the second day with Team Captain SSgt Daniel “Dead Eye” Hitchen achieving marksman on his ACMT. This was followed up with some very impressive
Following on from these initial shoots we went into all the shoots we would face on Corps OSC. The ranges we have taken part in so far could not be further from a normal range day, instead of the pressure to pass an ACMT or zero it is much more focused on improving your shooting and passing on knowledge. With the improvement the whole team demonstrated after the 2 weeks of invaluable training I now feel confident in saying that we will be bringing some silver ware back to 1 AAC REME Wksps in April. For any other units that are considering entering next year’s Corps OSC I would say 100% do it, this whole event has given us the opportunity to practice an essential military skill within a relaxed professional environment.
Firers conducting the Pistol Close Quarter Combat Assessment
Firers conducting the Fire Team Close Combat Assessment
All Change at SAAE
Scribe: Sgt Heath
It’sall change at the Defence School of Electronic & Mechanical Engineering (SAAE) with the culmination of two and half years of hard work to modernise REME Aviation training. Under Project PEGASUS, SAAE has created two new departments and made a significant technological leap forward with the arrival of Apache Mk1. If those changes weren’t enough the introduction of Aircraft Maintenance Licensing (AML) training is also well under way. I, for one, am excited to see the positive impact these changes will have on the standard of training being delivered.
Project PEGASUS
Through Project PEGASUS, SAAE cohered a number of large change initiatives that will revolutionise REME Aviation training. Director Land Warfare’s (DLW’s) vision to “train as we fight” is being taken seriously at SAAE and our new-look courses now: include modernised content and are aligned with industry standards; develop improved tactical competence; and include modern battlefield technology; all whilst reducing time spent in training.
This has been achieved by the formation of the REME Aviation Academy and 650 Sqn LAD, which between them provide a realistic working environment and a firm baseline for the introduction of Apache and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) accredited AML training. SAAE’s new Operating Model can be seen here.
Transition to Civil Aviation Authority Aircraft Maintenance License (CAA AML)
Under the new Operating Model, ITT trainees receive AML training that is directly accredited by the CAA. Cat A licence training will be delivered during the Aviation Academy phase of training before trainees head over to 650 Sqn LAD to complete the Flight Line Operations (FLO) phase. On completion of training at SAAE the trainee will conduct On the Job Training (OJT1) at their Unit before returning to SAAE on selection for promotion. On completion of the Senior Supervisor course, Technicians will be able to apply to the CAA for a Cat B licence.
The REME Aviation Academy has been established and has already adapted its working practices to meet CAA requirements and will shortly apply to become a Pt 147 Maintenance Training Organisation (MTO). The transition to AML training will for the first time give our soldiers industry recognised qualifications and the delivery model will play an important part in improving retention. Moreover, the new model will allow lateral entry from industry; applicants that already hold a Cat A licence can proceed directly to the Flight Operations Phase of training in the ITT pipeline. The first CAA approved course is scheduled to begin training Nov 24.
SAAE’s New Operating Model
SAAE’s new Apache Training Aids in its final home
Land Training System
Alongside the creation of the REME Aviation Academy, in October 2023 650 Sqn LAD was also formed. 650 Sqn is an Apache Mk1 Sqn, “operating” a fleet of 8 aircraft. The LAD is SAAE’s “Operational Conversion Unit” and delivers against the intent of the Land Training System; it makes REME Aviation training more realistic as well as delivering important Subsequent Trade Training. 650 Sqn LAD prepares trainees by developing and testing a military engineering skillset within a pseudo-MAA Pt 145 environment.
Within the LAD, 1 Pl are charged with the coveted role of the final preparation of the Initial Trade Training (ITT) trainees, honing their skills and putting into practice all the theory they have been taught at the Academy. Under the guidance and tutelage of 2 Pl, those chosen as the next generation of Corporals and Sergeants return to develop the skills required to become effective Field Force Supervisors/Senior Supervisors, the backbone of REME Aviation. 3 Pl take charge of the AEO and Artificers, shaping them into the Engineering Managers of the future.
SAAE has made huge developments in the delivery of contextualised training, and Ex HANDS HIGH has already undergone a complete redesign to make it much more realistic. Now renamed Ex VOLANT WARRIOR, it is no longer just a week of working outside. Both Avionic and Aircraft trainees combine to form functioning Aircraft Maintenance Teams (AMTs) and carry out contextualised serials giving them a taste of life as a deployed Technician. Realism is the aim of the game and work is already afoot to bring in other
ITT Trainees work closely with other trades
An ITT trainee simulates working in a CBRN environment
New SAAE Structure
courses (such as the AEOs and Artificers) to add yet more layers of realism
The new contextualised serials focus on the key elements of Green training, including CBRN scenarios, resupply patrols, emissions control (no light, no noise), enemy equipment recognition, forward deployment and camouflage and concealment. We have also looked at interoperability, not just by forming multi-trade AMTs but also enlisting the support of Recovery Mechanic trainees to provide vertical lift and we are
working to establish training partnerships with AAC Groundcrew and RAF technical trainees. The end result is REME tradespeople that are much better prepared for what the field force will throw at them!
Modernisation
Alongside the reorganisation of the training departments the hangar has received a much-needed facelift with the delivery of two Apache Mk1 aircraft and another 6 due to be delivered by early summer. Currently being utilised by 2 Pl to deliver Supervisor and Senior Supervisor training, the incorporation of Apache closes the technology gap between the training space and the Field Force and will soon be in use by 1 Pl to train ITT trainees, further modernising the training experience by replacing the ageing Lynx fleet.
Summary
The future looks bright for SAAE, through Project PEGASUS we are meeting DLWs vision to “train as we fight”. We have modernised our training to be more efficient and aligned to industry standards whilst also developing tactical competence. Our modernised equipment has reduced the technology gap between SAAE and the Field Force whist enhancing the learning experience. The result of all this work is a trainee who is better prepared to meet the demands of the Field Force than ever before.
Maj Candlin oversees the delivery of the Apache
SSgt Collinson and Mr Clark rebuild the newly delivered Apache
Oops! we did it again –7 Field / Armoured Workshop & 2 CS Bn REME Reunion
Scribe: Jonathan Hulme
On the weekend of the 26th - 29th of April 2024 we gathered again for another reunion. Not at a normal location this time, we were hosted by the NATO Sgts’ Mess in Sennelager.
As you can imagine on the Friday the majority, some with wives, others with family members, descended on Sennelager via Train, plane, ship or by car from the four corners of Germany and England, plus one pair came from Austria who arrived on Thursday.
We were kindly allowed to use the Sgts’ Mess in Sennelager where we must thank the GSM Oldham and the Mess Manageress, Mrs Penny French, for allowing us to use the mess for sleeping, drinking and for a few meals.
Most of us arrived during the afternoon on the Friday, we had arranged to have the bar opened earlier and as usually what happens at these events a lot of beer, storytelling, swinging the lantern and pulling up the sandbag happened. Most of us got to bed very late or should say in the early hours of the morning.
It always surprises me that a lot of people have trepidation at the start of these events thinking that they might not know anyone. Maybe partly true but I guarantee at the end of the weekend you will know everyone. I was glad a few new faces appeared, and they had a brilliant time.
Saturday started with brunch in the mess for those who stayed in Camp, with the last member arriving just as we were about to leave for Paderborn to meet up with those who had decided to stay in hotels with their families. Our last member was squared away and then we headed into town.
We found a few of the guys in a local café, one or the other from our group opted for a coffee to nurse the headaches. The majority started to have a casual beer and we decided to move to a better location.
We choose the Deutsches Haus close to the Paderquellegebiet, as we were booked for a meal in the Paderborner Brauhaus later.
As the most of you can imagine, we started to have a few refreshments. To start off with we were six or seven but as the day progressed our group started to grow. Many a tale was told, and a lot of reminiscing was done. By the time we left most of the group were there and the atmosphere was extremely jovial.
We left the one location and staggered over to the next one for a meal. Before we had our food, we managed to get our picture taken beforehand.
The meal was excellent with everyone`s stomach filled and after a few more beers we
decided to go back to the Deutsches Haus for a few more refreshments for the road.
As it started to get a bit late our group started to thin out and goodbyes were exchanged. Those who were staying on camp got a taxi back to camp and went back to the mess where we had some leftover beer from the night before. A few more stories and drinking continued to the early hours again.
Unfortunately, I had to leave the next day, so my goodbyes and farewells were said but quite a few had stayed for another day of drunken debauchery. I am sure the stories will trickle through eventually; but pretty sure it was much the same as Friday and Saturday.
It is 15 years since we started doing these reunions and it always amazes me how much positive feedback we get. I helped with the organisation but someone else did most of the work, I know that I found a lot of people who have been to one or more of the reunions and I am sure that they had a great weekend, made new memories and remade friendships that will last a lifetime. In total 28 people attended.
We usually have a Christmas dinner at a chosen location (usually in the UK) and a weekend somewhere else then. It doesn´t matter what rank you were, if you were a Craftsman or Major or somewhere in between, this is an all-ranks reunion group.
If you are interested and served at 7 Field Workshop/7 Armd Wksp or 2 CS Bn or attached to one of these units then find the group on Facebook (7 Field/Armoured Workshop & 2 CS Bn REME Reunion) where you will be asked a few vetting questions (just so we clarify who you are) or send me an e-mail jon-hulme@t-online.de where I will try and get information to you.
Hope to hear or maybe see you soon.
Jon Hulme
Arte et Marte
Friendships and memories being made over a beverage or two!
FThe new HRH The Countess of Wessex Silver Centrepiece
Scribe: Geoff Beaumont
ollowing the appointment of the HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh GCVO as our Colonel-in-Chief on 30 March 2022, the Headquarters Officers’ Mess commissioned a silver centrepiece to commemorate the occasion. The centrepiece will be known as HRH The Countess of Wessex Silver Centrepiece, reflecting Her Royal Highness’s title at the time of commissioning. As 2022 also marked the 80th year since the formation of the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, the Corps Mess Committee took the view that a design to capture these two events should be chosen.
The final design by the Silversmith Mark Munson, who has been associated with the Corps for over 30 years, comprises three female REME soldier figures on a wooden tri-form base, around a central
silver pillar mounted with The Duchess of Edinburgh’s Coat of Arms. The three figures represent the combat, trade and ceremonial roles carried out by Corps personnel in the performance of their duties.
When viewed from each of the three sides, two of the figures are always visible framing the pillar and the Coat of Arms above.
The Mess has no silver that depicts the women who serve or have served in the Corps. Recognising that The Duchess of Edinburgh is a consistent advocate of the challenges and issues faced by women in the Army and wider society, the committee chose a design based on the three female REME figures.
Each face of the central pillar has one of the three versions of the REME cap badge engraved. One face has the Hallmarks vertically spaced, including the King’s coronation hallmark. At the top are three concave silver replicas of The Duchess’s Coat of Arms mounted with a central crown, with the crowns picked out in gold. The base of the pillar is silver banded and engraved with the following inscription:
“Commissioned by the Headquarters Officers’ Mess of the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers following the appointment of HRH The Countess of Wessex GCVO as our Colonel-in-Chief on the 30th of March 2022 and, in our 80th year, to celebrate the women who have served, and continue to serve, in the Corps”
The three figures and pillar when housed in the triform base form the large centrepiece, however the design allows for the centrepiece to dismantled and each individual element displayed separately.
This fantastic silver centrepiece was formerly presented to the Headquarters Officer’s Mess, by the Master General on the 16 May 2024 at the Corps Dinner Night.
When is a Corporal not a Corporal? When they’re a Lance Sergeant
Scribe: Captain Webb
There was a minor uproar when a REME SP was recently referred to as a Lance Sergeant (LSgt) rather than a Corporal (Cpl) on British Army Social Media. With criticism that the traditions and Ethos of the REME were somehow being stripped away, I felt it best to explain a little why this tradition exists in the Household Division. It’s a simple explainaton; because they are. A very short answer, barely worthy of an article. So short in fact, that I feel like I’ve baited you to read the article; so I should probably give a slightly better justification.
Historically, Cpls in the Household Division have been referred to as LSgts. An unverified reason for this is that Queen Victoria didn’t like the look of a single chevron, so made LCpls wear two, forcing a knock-on effect for Cpls (now wearing three chevrons and called LSgts), and then Sgts (who changed the colour of their chevrons, to be different). Another suggestion is that it could be used to test certain Cpls before making the leap into the world of the SNCO; with the idea that to be demoted from Sergeant required a court martial, but demotion from Lance Sergeant required only the CO to make it so. Whichever historical reason, “long standing custom” (the words of Queen’s Regulations 1975, as well as Household Divison Standing Orders, not my own) dictates that within the Household Division all Corporals are appointed and dressed as Lance Corporal of Horse or Lance Sergeant, and are full members of the WOs’ and NCOs’ or Sgts’ Mess.
Being recognised as a LSgt is an honour bestowed on members of the various LADs whilst serving as attached arms within the Household Division (i.e. the Household Cavalry Regiment (HCR),
Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment (HCMR), or the Foot Guards). At the HCR, the ranks of Sergeant and Lance Sergeant are differentiated by a difference in the colour of chevrons worn – black for Sergeant, beige/tan for Lance Sergeant.
What does this mean for REME soldiers? There are practical benefits; being a part of the Sergeants and Warrant Officers’ Mess, for example. Less of a benefit at the Household Cavalry (here, we have an NCOs’ mess, which includes everyone from LCpl to RSM), but often regarded as a positive at the Foot Guards units where it allows entry to a mess earlier than at other units. It’s also a part of being within the unit you are supporting. When supporting a unit, every LAD takes their headdress.
For those at Household Division units, this includes a Household background for the capbadge. It’s a part of being with that unit, a method of maintaing cohesion and making the attached arms feel like a part of the family. The Household Division (anecdotally) does particularly well in retaining or posting back in attached arms – not just within the LADs, but also Clerks and Medics too. This is significantly impacted by how welcoming the unit is – and the use of LSgt instead of Cpl, although seemingly minor, ensures that attached arms know they’re valued and part of the unit.
Whilst the justification behind the rank may seem slim, the message and culture of the units is clear. The Household Division looks after its people well, and for at least the time of their posting at one of the aforementioned units, the SP within the LAD have support from two families; the REME family and those who wear Blue-Red-Blue.
The Broxhead Club 2024 Annual Dinner
Scribe: Major (Retired) Pat Spence REME
This year the Broxhead Club held its Annual Dinner night on 23rd March in the Officers’ Mess at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham. The evening was well attended, taking advantage of both the geographical location and the available accommodation on site. Both the Chairman, Colonel Lex Agathangelou VR (currently serving as Colonel REME Reserves) and the Club President, Colonel (Retired) Kevin Hearty QVRM VR, spoke briefly at the dinner to update the membership in attendance.
During the annual dinner, it is customary for the Broxhead Club to hold a collection for the REME Charity, and the 2024 dinner raised a total of £450.
The Broxhead Club started as a Club for Territorial Army (TA) REME Officers and was named after Broxhead House, which was the main officers building for Louisburg Barracks within Bordon Garrison; the Garrison where the former REME Central Volunteer HQ, then latterly named, HQ REME TA were based. A significant recent development for the Club has been the expansion of its membership base to include REME Warrant Officers. Membership of the Broxhead Club is free, and the club itself welcomes both Regular and Reservist Officers and Warrant Officers (either serving or retired) who have served in or with REME Reserve units and Reservists. The Club has a membership in excess of 200 with the ratio of Officer to Warrant Officers in the region of 3:1. The Club itself is now a part of the overarching REME Association.
The Committee continue to seek other event opportunities for the Club membership to meet and engage. Looking forward there are two further dates now confirmed in the Broxhead Club diary as follows;
• Windsor Castle – Saturday 7th December 2024: An additional private dinner night will take place within Windsor Castle for up to 70 people.
• 2025 Annual dinner: The 2025 Broxhead Club Annual Dinner night will take place on Saturday 22nd March 2025 in the Officers’ Mess at Prince William of Gloucester Barracks, Grantham.
The Broxhead Club is very much seen as an opportunity for serving personnel and Veterans to keep in touch as fellow members of the Corps family. New members are encouraged and welcomed by the Committee; anyone interested in joining the Broxhead Club should contact the Hon Sec (Maj (Ret’d) Pat Spence, email: BroxheadClub.HonSec@outlook.com).
Broxhead House within Louisburg Barracks, Bordon
Left to right - Col Mark Simpson (Commander Soldier Academy), Reserve Maj (retd) Pat Spence (Secretary Broxhead Club) & Lt Col (retd) Martin Leeke
Ex STEADFAST DEFENDER 2024
Scribe: Lt Kenton Henley-Roussel
Maj Muir - Setting the Scene
Exercise STEADFAST DEFENDER 2024 (Ex SD 24) is a NATO exercise taking place during the period 22 Jan to 31 May 24, throughout the Trans-Atlantic region. The UK’s involvement in Ex SD 24 has been named Op LINOTYPER, with subsequent exercises coming under this. A total of 90,000 NATO troops will deploy, making it the largest NATO exercise since the end of the Cold War. Of the 90,000 troops, 16,000 are from the British Army, with an additional 2,000 from the Royal Navy.
As part of Ex SD 24, and while being validated by NATO to be held @R1 (48hrs Notice To Move (NTM)) and @R2 (5 days NTM) for Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (Land), 7 Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team (7 LMBCT) deployed on Ex SD24; Ex BRILLIANT JUMP 24 (Ex BRJU 24) and Ex POLISH DRAGON 24 (Ex PD 24). 4 CS Coy from 1 Bn REME deployed from 12 Feb to 22 Mar 24, supporting 7LMBCT, but this certainly wasn’t the only REME Bn involvement. With support from 2 Bn REME on the ‘home bank’ (UK), 5 Bn REME and 9 Bn REME on the ‘far bank’ (Mainland Europe). I can honestly say this was a ’Team Effort’ from the REME. If it wasn’t for the hard work and support from the aforementioned Bns and deployed LADs, a consistent CE of 91-95% from over 773 x Vehicles and Main Equipment (VaME), would not have been achieved.
The plan was simple, get all of 7LMBCTs vehicles to Marchwood, and they would then get ferried to Emden, Germany. Get all 7LMBCT people to Brize Norton, who would then be flown to Paderborn, coached to Emden to collect their vehicles, and then over the course of 6 weeks, drive across Germany and Poland, conducting NATO interoperability exercises throughout. Covering a driving distance of over 2,500km, this was the Ex BRJU 24 element, which concluded with Ex PD 24, a live firing NATO exercise at Bemowo Piskie Training Area (BPTA) in Eastern Poland.
Cfn Mellor (VM) – Ex BRILLIANT JUMP
Light Forward (Lt Fwd) A Platoon (Pl) made their move ahead of the rest of the Coy to establish an ES footprint within Poland; to better prepare for the anticipated inflow of casualty vehicles coming through. As the Brigade moved through Germany and up to the Polish border, they were met by Senior Officers of various countries within NATO and lots of media; a great experience for the troops. Once the whole Company had made their way to Poland, they established themselves within a Brigade Support Area (BSA) and spent one week conducting more Level 2 ES, supporting the 7LMBCT LADs; with Pinzgauer, Land Rover and Panther being the most challenging platforms. Luckily, SSgt Jon Armstrong, Med and Dent Tech, was on hand to inspire the troops by spotting a burger van from over 500m. The exercise up to this point posed interesting challenges not previously faced, a fantastic opportunity for all ranks to learn and develop in a country many had not previously deployed to. A key issue that we encountered was the lack of tooling and expense available to the VM’s. This created an amazing chance to practice some interoperability where Cfn Collinson of Lt Fwd A Pl engaged with the Polish REME equivalent to get a muchneeded bolt to replace a water pump on a Land Rover; getting it back on the road and further increasing 7LMBCT’s availability. This, along with many other repairs, allowed 7LMBCT’s fleet to move from the West to the East of Poland. Executing the highly anticipated Wet Gap Crossing, with the Brigade crossing the 400m wide River Vistula on multinational NATO boats, before transitioning to the next exercise phase, Ex PD 24.
Cfn Zaman – Ex POLISH DRAGON 24
After an epic journey across Europe, 4 Coy were poised and ready to provide ES on Ex PD 24. Lt Fwd B Pl were the first to enter the fray establishing an ECCP to support activity on BPTA.
7LMBCT and partner nations formed up on DPTA
Utilising local facilities, we acquired an aircraft hangar, providing the tradespeople the perfect space to support the 7LMBCT equipment. Here we continued the work that had been going on during the Ex BRJU 24 phase. During this time, we ensured that equipment availability remained above 94%; truly preserving the words of the Late Desert Rats Commander Field Marshal Montgomery “Keeping the punch in the Army’s fist”. #DesertRats.
Settling into our role on the airfield we assisted 6RLC in providing vital sustainment to the Brigade; allowing them to continue interoperability with our NATO counterparts. During our time on Ex PD 24, the Platoons were tested with complex faults being sent level 2 and 3 work from across the Brigade. Morale, however, did not waver and relationships amongst the LADs and 1 Bn REME were at an alltime high proving we are one REME after all. During rare quiet moments, 4 Coy took the opportunity to conduct Readiness training, sharpening our CBRN, weapons handling and BCD skills; ensuring that we remain soldier first, tradesman always.
The final hurdle of Ex PD 24 was the redeployment phase, a complex challenge for 7LMBCT. This involved loading all 773 VaME onto the RoRo ferry to be received back in the UK. 17 Port and Maritime Regiment were there to assist, enabling the loading of all this equipment in Gdańsk. 4 Coy again played a key role, repairing equipment until the last safe moment to contribute towards Readiness, the focus of the whole exercise.
2Lt Ibrar RM PC – Recovery Overview
The Recovery Platoon worked tirelessly throughout the exercise to provide support to 7LMBCT; ensuring vehicles were recovered swiftly between Emden Port in North-West Germany all the way to BPTA in North-East Poland, c2,500km.
Whilst in Drawsko Pomorskie Training Area (DPTA) in Western Poland, unit training was conducted, allowing Class 1 and 2 Recovery Mechanics to instruct Class 3 personnel. They covered in-direct pulls and provided opportunities to command more complex recovery tasks. As well as this, the Bde conducted an interoperability day with the Polish and Turkish forces bringing a range of vehicles for our Recovery Mechanics to test recovery methods on, to better prepare for potential breakdowns during the Wet Gap Crossing. The language barrier between all three nations was hard to navigate, but nothing that hand signals and a bit of gumption couldn’t fix. One of the main challenges came with the Turkish BMC Vuran. When loaded onto the MLET its height went over 4.5m so the RMs overcame the issue by lowering the MLET
Lt Fwd A Pl conducting an engine change with assistance from the Recovery Platoon
Cfn Mellor and Cfn Bradbury (Lt Fwd A Pl) conducting a repair on a PANTHER
suspension and reducing the BMC Vulcan tyre pressure until the height became low enough to be in-gauge. When it came to lifting the BMC Vuran with the SVR, our recovery adaptors didn’t fit the vehicle, but through trial, error and some crucial snack breaks implemented by the Recovery Pl Comd, the issue was overcome through using another recovery method.
The Wet Gap Crossing came mid-way through the exercise and was controlled by British, German, Polish and French military. During the eight-hour crossing period, eight ferries successfully ferried more than 750 pieces of equipment and upwards of a thousand troops across a 400-metre-wide gap.
The Recovery Mechanics roles during this momentous event was to recover vehicles that either got stuck on banks of the riverbed, or to recover vehicles that would potentially breakdown on one of the ferries. To do this, we strategically placed SV(R)s on both sides of the river; this enabled us to keep the flow of traffic going at a constant and helped to make the task run smoothly.
The final phase of the exercise involved the Recovery Platoon assisting 7LMBCT with the remaining march across Poland, and the LFTT in BPTA, where recovery assets focused on recovering vehicles to their respective units or to our ECCP where they could assist with vehicle repairs.
LCpl Falvey (TSS)
As a TQMS department, we held technical equipment and relevant ST&E (Specialist Tools & Equipment) sets that could assist our legendary 4 Coy Vehicle Mechanics in doing their jobs throughout the exercise. We also assisted the CQMS with distribution of rations & water, as well as the collection and feeding of hot food from the
LCpl Hope and Cfn Smythe (Lt Fwd B Pl) conducting a repair on a FOXHOUND
MV EDDYSTONE docked at port ready to receive vehicles
field kitchen throughout, looking after about 200 people in the Coy and wider BSA.
We faced the challenge of how best to distribute our ST&E holdings. With Platoons operating dispersed, sometimes c250Km apart, it was vital that we distributed the correct tooling and expense to each location.
It has come to light on a few occasions that we don’t hold some ST&E on our account that would be beneficial to the Vehicle Mechanics. This was partly due to the usual lack of tooling across the REME, but also the Lt Fwd Pl’s operating in separate locations, c250km apart. A ruthless triage of what ST&E should go where to try and aim off for what jobs were coming as always required.
LCpl Thomson (RLC LSS)
1 Bn REME RLC Stores Section deployed with 4 x LSS Soldiers. Our job was to be responsible for all ES Mat that the BattleGroup requested during this exercise. The RLC prepared for this by making a spares pack consisting of 106 items that were held with the team. Upon immediate arrival the team were fulfilling demands from the truck and utilising other units to ensure equipment was sourced to repair and maintain the vehicles.
After the move from Sennelager, the demand system was inundated with demands from all the Battle-Groups. This posed a difficult issue as, the demands had to come through five different echelons of supply and three different countries before it reached our location. It became extremely difficult to track all the ES Material as the demands were being placed quicker than we could satisfy them. Upon linking in with Team Leidos, we managed to pinpoint the location of our spares and get them directed to us.
This enabled us to get spares to the REME and allow them to carry out essential repairs and maintenance to keep the
vehicles in the battle. The ES consisted of small items from a clutch clip up to engines and transfer boxes; some items were also unavailable meaning that they had to be locally purchased. Luckily for us, WO2 (CSM) Adam Croser had deployed early to build rapport with local businesses that were able to source spares. This relationship proved vital. If an item was out of stock on the system, WO2 Croser’s new best friend, Mr Maciek, would work tirelessly to source it and would even manufacture parts from scratch.
Mr. Maciek also had connections across Europe that we could utilise throughout the deployment and no doubt will be an asset to future NATO exercises – a well deserving recipient of the Company 2ICs coin and welcome in the 1REME Cpls Club anytime.
Capt Nonas – Summary
Ex BRJU 24 and Ex PD 24 was a fantastic opportunity on many levels. Firstly, it truly tested 1 Bn REME, and further CSS elements, by working across such distances and with such a high demand. Secondly, it was something different to the usual churn of Salisbury Plain or Catterick Trg Area, so everyone was exposed to new challenges.
We couldn’t rely on the well tested UK supply chain or tapping into local units for spares. Working with Partner Nations also provided new challenges, 1 Bn REME SP learnt how to recover and repair equipment from our Polish, Albanian, Spanish and Turkish counterparts; the language barrier making it more complex.
It was the first time for many in the Brigade to conduct a crossing on a major wide wet waterway – something the Brigade conducted with relative ease. 1 Bn REME and 7LMBCT have truly shown they are ready to deploy under NATO, whatever that challenge may be.
Turkish BMC Vuran being loaded onto an MLET trailer
Potteries and District REME Association, May 2024 Newsletter
Scribe: Maurice Hope - photo’s John Hubbert
The month started off very well with a round dozen Veterans coming together on Saturday 11th of May for the monthly North Staff’s REME Breakfast Club event at the Weathervane Pub in Meir, meetings usually held on the first Saturday of each calendar month but with the 4th being part of the May bank holiday weekend it was deferred for a week. Not always the same attendees but new faces continue to join us; which gives us an opportunity to push the fact that we do have a REME Association branch on their doorstep, which does surprise some who never realised we existed in the area. It does give us a ready supply of people to attract to the branch.
We had a bumper turnout for the branch monthly lunch event, this month held at the Brindley Farm Pub on Festival Park, on Tuesday 14th. Nineteen people attended which is getting somewhere close to a record attendance for the event…raising a record amount from our inhouse raffle of £65, which will be going towards our Christmas Dinner on Saturday November 30th.
The Stoke-on-Trent National Garden Festival was the second of Britain’s National Garden Festivals, it was held in the city from 1st of May to the 26th of October in 1986, and was opened by HM The Queen.
Preparations of the site involved the reclamation of a huge swath of land formerly occupied by the Shelton Bar Steelworks (1830-1978). It now forms a business park with retail outlets, which even has a Ski-slope; not what you might expect to see in Stoke.
Our branch Vice President, Lt Col John Edwards OBE, enjoyed the day with a trip down memory lane. Former 2Lt John Edwards (many moons ago), met up after 47 years with his former Driver, Cfn Mark “Dixie” Dix. John’s first posting was to 9 Fd Wksp REME, Bordon where Dixie was a VM and became his Driver on exercise.
In 1977, on exercise in Denmark, Dixie, a member of “The Black Hand Gang” kidnapped John’s good luck “Cuddly”“Zoot”, a Koala Bear given to him by his then girlfriend, Rosemary, who five years later was to become his Wife.
John refused to negotiate with the gang, who demanded a “handbag” be placed under a tree at the edge of the camp.
Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT
Time: 18:00 for 18:30
In reprisal, the gang cut off “Zoots” ears and pinned them to the said tree - the Black Hand Gang, mainly Reccy Mechs, have a lot to answer for, as does Dixie! Clearly it is something you never forget and 47 years later when Dixie turned up for a Veterans breakfast event at the (Hungry Horse) Weathervane, Meir, all those memories for John came flooding back (REME Officers with Cuddly bears, whatever would our forebears in the Corps make of that!!)
As can be seen, John and Mark are now good buddies, and thanks to Rosemary, John has a replacement “Cuddly”. Finally, and in keeping with branch lunchtime raffles, John won yet again another prize, a box of Roses, which he generously passed around to the other branch diners - including Dixie.
A bit of sad news for the branch was announced at our monthly branch meeting on Tuesday 28th. It would appear that our days of using the Meir/Longton RBL Club as our base may now be over. The RBL branch are experiencing serious financial losses, and are currently in a considerable amount of debt. With weekly running costs of £5,000 and an income of below £4,000, it’s days sadly are numbered (Yet another RBL Club closure!!).
So after ten years we are currently discussing a change of location to the Thistleberry Inn, in Newcastle-under-Lyme. More updates in the June newsletter.
REME Servicewomen’s Conference and Dinner Night
On behalf of everyone at The REME Servicewomen’s Network, a warm invitation is extended to all REME Servicewomen to attend the first REME Servicewomen’s Conference and Dinner Night taking place at MOD Lyneham, on Wednesday 2nd October 2024.
This will be a great event, bringing REME Servicewomen together as a team with the aim of delivering 3 key objectives:
1. Inspire and empower women within the REME.
2. Understand and educate on female specific policy and concerns.
3. Build personal and professional connections to establish an all-rank support network.
Registration to attend the event is now open and can be accessed via the QR code.
Early registration would be much appreciated to assist with the organisation.
Myra Hughes and John Wain
REME TRADES IN THE ARCHIVES: VEHICLE MECHANIC PART III, ‘C’ VEHICLES
Roads, runways, the Royal Engineers and recovery
Scribe: Celia Cassingham (REME Museum Archivist)
In previous issues, we looked at Vehicle Mechanics (VM) ‘A’, and ‘B’ and now it is the turn of VMs ‘C’. I refer you to the previous articles as an aide memoire to the history of the VM Trade as a whole. It is worth noting that as part of the re-organisation of the mechanical trade structure in 1963, VM ‘C’ became VM ‘B’ (Trained in C Vehicles). In 1968 it was recommended that there should be three categories of Vehicle Mechanic, namely ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’ and by March 1990 the single trade of VM was formed.
The material we have in our archives shows that ‘C’ Vehicles also played their part during the Second World War and it therefore followed that REME,
REME War Report, Middle East, Volume IV (A: 1958.0104.03.100)
of course, played its part in the repair and maintenance of these vehicles, as well as other engineering equipment.
The photograph depicts the vehicle park of 30 Corps Troops Workshop REME, including engineering equipment, during the static workshop phase of the unit’s history, after having gone all the way through North-West Europe. From the History of 30 Corps Troops Workshop (A1961.0409.05)
The REME Middle East War Report (Part IV) includes a section describing Royal Engineers equipment received in Base Workshops, which is indicative of the variety and complexity of equipment worked on. Examples include: “Tractors (Tracked) and Accessories. Tractor Caterpillar D2 D4 D6 D7 D8”; earth moving equipment other than tractors, such as excavators (Byers, Bucyrus), dumpers, graders and scrapers.
Another of the unit histories relevant to the North-West Europe Campaign in our
Vehicle Park 30 Corps Troops Workshop
History of 2nd Army Troops front cover
archives is the 2nd Army Troops Report compiled by Lt Col Franklin, Commander REME 2 Army Troops, June 1943-June 1945. (E: 08.0202.20)
The report includes a section dealing with the repair of Royal Engineers and Mechanical Equipment. He writes: “Little was known on this subject at the commencement of the campaign. The workshops were placed with the Mechanical Equipment Park and the Workshop and Park Company. It is considered that in an Army where bulldozers are required for operations urgently the workshop must sit on the Mechanical Equipment Park.” The relevant REME workshops at the time were 4 and 5 Engineer Equipment Workshops.
The organisation that was undertaken to set up the Engineer Equipment Workshops, REME is recorded in REME Notes, Issue No 1, August 1943 which was created as a “monthly publication by DME (Director of Mechanical Engineering) containing items of general information and interest affecting the Directorate and REME.”
Paragraph 28 records the policy of central workshops in the UK undertaking repairs to RE Machinery, plant and equipment. Paragraphs 32 and 33 describe the establishment of Engineer Equipment Workshops Types A and B, REME. Consequent upon the formation of REME and in accordance with ACI 1605, 1942, agreement in principle was obtained to transfer the workshop elements of the Workshop and Park Coy, RE and the whole of the workshop section of the Mechanical Equipment Workshop and Park Coy RE to REME. Both types of workshops were to be a semi-mobile field force units to undertake 3rd line repairs to Engineer equipment.
The Second Army Troops report, includes a chart showing the weekly output figures for 4 Engineer Equipment Workshop, REME, British Liberation Army (BLA), for bulldozers and RE Equipment, which shows how the new policy worked out in the field.
The official War Office History of REME, Volume II – Technical describes an example of REME ingenuity with regard to ‘C’ Vehicles. Often when people think of the North West Europe campaign, the Normandy landings, recovery and the Caterpillar D8s come to mind. This example of REME ingenuity was a modification to the D8 Caterpillar tractors of American origin capable of unditching heavy AFVs. The Caterpillar D8 was in the very early stages of the war ordered on a considerable scale for RE services, e.g. bulldozer and bridge work and it was appreciated that as a cross-country tractor it would be invaluable. A “very satisfactory” (in the words of the author) spade type earth anchor permanently attached to the tractor was designed by the REME recovery experimental sections which enabled maximum winch pulls to be achieved (p. 113).
The history and development of the ‘C’ vehicle trade in the 1960s is recorded in the series of Liaison Letters of the Director of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (Army) DEME(A) held in our archives, which follow on from REME Notes and are an example of the type of official records that we hold.
DEME(A)’s Liaison Letter No 57 of February 1966, records the investigation into the provision of tradesmen for the repair of ‘C’ vehicles and to ensure that all requirements for VM B (trained on ‘C’ vehicles) or other specialist tradesmen for ‘C’ vehicle or plant repair were to be reflected in unit establishments.
D8 Tractors with spade earth anchors A1975.1364.007 and A:
The Liaison Letters describe in detail the whole history of the development across various issues from August 1966 to August 1967. The August 1966 issue starts off by noting that discussions were taking place regarding the division of repair responsiblilty between RE and REME.
The August 1967 issue records the decision that a new division of responsibilites between RE and REME for the repair of ‘C’ vehicles and Engineer construction plant was accepted. REME became responsible for all repair of ‘C’ vehicles from unit to base. RE was to be responsible for all repair of Engineer construction plant from unit to base; excluding the base repair of engines of RAOC provision which remained a REME responsibiity.
Organisationally it was agreed that each RE unit should have a REME Regimental Workshop under command, with provision for detachments and attached tradesmen depending on the repair load.
Implementation of the new organisation was planned to begin during the second half of 1968 and a special training programme began in September 1967 to train Vehicle Mechanics ‘B’ in ‘C’ vehicle repair techniques.
A photograph from our collections shows the first RE/REME Joint training course for ‘C’ Vehicle Mechanics held at the Royal School of Military Engineering, September 1968, Course R 68/36. (E13.1409)
We are now going to change tack slightly and take a look at photographs which tell the story of the ‘C’ vehicle trade around the world. We have a large photographic collection and are spoilt for choice.
Workshop demonstration scene, Korea
First RE/REME Joint Training course
Op CROWN, Caterpillar D8, a compactor and a rotary hoe lined up awaiting repair
The photograph depicting a workshop demonstration scene is from the album of Commander REME of 1 Commonwealth Division during the last year of the Korean War (E: 06.0562.216). On the forefront right, is a Caterpillar D7 armoured bulldozer, to its left is a Sheepsfoot roller for flattening roads, next left is a motor grader, next to that is a towed grader, and on the far left is a Scammell tractor and trailer.
REME provided significant support to Operations CROWN, the building of an airfield and POST CROWN, the building of a road in North East Thailand. The airfield was constructed by Royal Engineers over a three year period from late in 1963 to December 1966.
The image above which shows a Caterpillar
Group Photo Engineer C Vehicle Workshop
Layout of 37 Rhine Workshop, REME including the C Shop with explanatory note
A: 1960.0248.12 various types of tracked plant at 22 Heavy Wksps
A: 1960.0248.089 Final vehicle assembly of an excavator at 22 Heavy Wksps
D8, a compactor and a rotary hoe lined up awaiting repair, is from a collection of prints relating to the CRE Workshops, REME, Op CROWN (E10.0350)
The EME Liaison Letter of August 1967 refers to the decision that “where necessary the repair of ‘C’ vehicles and Engineer construction plant may be combined under REME technical control in certain static or semi-static workshops, eg. RE airfield units, operation POST CROWN”.
The group photograph, taken from the album REME in the Far East depicts Engineer C Vehicle Workshop, Malaysia, upon the disbandment of the unit in 1971. (A: 1975.1370.301)
The unit history (a most excellent example of the types of unit workshop histories we hold in the archives) of 37 Rhine Workshop, Mönchengladbach, BAOR (British Army of the Rhine) from 1945-1969, includes a layout plan of the workshop (E:06.0564.075). Its role was changed to include base overhaul of C Vehicles and their assemblies upon the disbandment of 4 Base Workshop REME, Bad Oeynhausen.
The images of various types of tracked plant and the final vehicle assembly of an excavator are from the history of 22 Heavy Workshop, Hamburg, BAOR (A: 1960.0248), dated March 1949.
The colour prints of various types of engineering plant are from a collection relating to 42 District Workshop, Liverpool, which closed in the early 1990s.
The images showing Caterpillar tractors at work in jungle terrain are from an album of photographs (A1960.0244) taken by a REME officer with the Fourteenth Army in Burma and Malaya at the time, during the last two years of the war, 1944-1945.
Finally, we end with Sardinia. The image shows a Caterpillar bulldozer standing in front of a Sherman Beach Armoured Recovery Vehicle, both used in exercise FORTHRIGHT, Sardinia,
E06.0523.011 Thwaites dumper and Alldrive dump truck
1956, taken from the album REME in Gibraltar (A:2007.4858.42)
Last, but not least, it would be remiss of me to close without saying that we also hold a wealth of technical material (albeit not every single thing about every single vehicle) such as: repair policy; service manuals; operators and maintenance instructions; operators guides for Caterpillar D4, D5, D6 tractors; complete equipment schedules; maintenance reports; illustrated parts catalogues and other material.
A: 1960.0244.01 Jungle road tanker towed by caterpillar tractor
A: 1960.0244.02 D8 Caterpillar Tractor towing tractor unit and 20-ton semi-trailer
A:2007.4858.42 Caterpillar bulldozer in front of Sherman BARV, Sardinia
Benefits of Shared Parental leave
Scribe: Major Jonathan Leng
Introduction
Hello to all those expecting a new baby and who may wish to take advantage of Shared Parental Leave (ShPL). Let me introduce my family; I’m Jon, serving in the REME, my partner Wendy is an NHS Dentist and together we have two girls, Leah and Heidi who were two years old and 3 months old respectively when we started our ShPL experience.
ShPL offers two eligible working parents to choose how to share the care of their new baby following birth or adoption (see JSP 760). In our case Wendy kindly shared 5 months of her maternity leave with me, which meant I could take 5 months ShPL and some annual leave at the same time Wendy was off work. We did a smaller trip after our first was born, so we had a good idea of what we could
achieve. Wendy’s first words on discovering she was pregnant were “I’m pregnant! Where shall we go travelling?” and this is where it all started.
We had many options and after much deliberation we decided on central Europe for three months in our caravan followed by Australia for two months via Thailand and Abu Dhabi. We tried our best to think big, we ignored the naysayers and started to plan our epic adventure.
Overview
Wendy planned our route through Europe from Dunkirk to the edge of the Alps and back. We went through Belgium, Holland, Germany, along the Austrian border, then France and Luxemburg. We passed wine regions and followed the Romantic Road in Germany where we visited Rothenberg, the most stunning town I have ever seen. Our halfway point was Oberstdorf, just in the Alps. Here we took cable cars up mountains, tobogganed down hillsides and watched ski jumpers doing their summer training.
Our return journey went via Lake Constance and the Black Forest where we enjoyed a toddler theme park where adults acted as the ride operators. We enjoyed live music, a community run circus and various swimming pools. These fantastic pools often had big water slides which Leah courageously went down alone and even Heidi loved riding them in the safety of our arms; they were brilliant fun. We visited Strasbourg, Luxembourg and Lille and marvelled at their beautiful architecture and ancient monuments.
From France we returned to Bristol for a quick pitstop, had some family catch-ups and then packed our bags for part two of our adventure. It started in Bangkok where we caught up with an old friend, Pun, who I trained with at Sandhurst. He took us to see ancient temples and elephants (which Leah handfed). We saw as much of Bangkok as we could before departing for Australia. By now Leah enjoyed flying, she loved learning about take-off and landings, when to pull back on her imaginary control stick and when to hit the brakes. Making the experience fun made flying with a toddler so much easier; although it didn’t help with the 3am jet lag!
After arriving in Australia, we started to explore our new surroundings. We discovered wildlife everywhere, fantastic play parks and pristine beaches with showers and BBQs for all to use. Yes, public BBQs where anyone can bring their food and cook it on a council provided electric BBQ and then eat in the comfort of shaded tables whilst enjoying beautiful ocean views. Australian’s have a lot of respect for their beaches and public areas, which made them more enjoyable.
The beach soon became our playground, and the kids loved it. They grew in confidence as they played in the surf and enjoyed being pulled along on a bodyboard. We visited theme parks, watched Dolphins and Sea Lions perform tricks at Sea World, went swimming in a Shark enclosure and stroked the slimy wings of Rays. We sat with Kangaroos and watched
All set for our family adventures
Enjoying the stunning views of the Alps
sleeping Koalas, all to the girls’ absolute delight. To explore more of Australia, Wendy planned a road trip to Sydney. Along the way we visited rainforest parks, great canyons and the Blue Mountains as well as an old hideout of the infamous Highway Man, Captain Thunderbolt. It was here that Leah asked if Captain Morgan would be there! (no prizes for guessing what we were drinking in the evenings). We saw many animals in the wild, on one occasion Leah was the first to see a Wallaby as we walked through a wood, she said ‘jumpyjumpy thing’ and pointed to a Wallaby just a few metres from us. The experience made her day.
At Sydney we surfed and played on Bondi Beach, walked along the most spectacular coastline and visited the Maritime Museum, where Leah loved going through the WWII submarine and playing pirates on the deck of a tall ship. On our return journey we visited a lighthouse on a protruding headland where we saw 20-30 migrating Whales. One breached every time it came up for air and others had calves by their side. We sat in awe for nearly two hours, amazed at the sea life in front of us. Australia was a great place to travel with children. The people were respectful to their country, loved the outdoors and have a genuine friendliness. Wildlife was abundant and the ocean teemed with life. We had such fun times; I can easily see why so many visitors emigrate there.
Lastly, we flew to Abu Dhabi; a land of wealth and a mixing pot of world cultures. We visited the incredibly exquisite Presidential Palace and Grand Mosque, we went joyriding in the sand dunes, (yes, with a baby!), rode a Camel (not with a baby) and watched the sunset from the desert dunes. We visited Ferrari World for a ride on the world’s fastest rollercoaster. It was truly amazing and a world so different to any other we had visited. After four days in Abu Dhabi we
flew back to Blighty. Despite the cold and wet we still found England beautiful as we walked through autumn leaves in the countryside. However, it didn’t take long before our minds started to think about our next adventure.
Conclusion
When Wendy first mentioned taking ShPL, I thought ‘I can’t leave work for several months.’ But Wendy responded with ‘it’s no different to women taking maternity leave’; she had a point.
I had some mental blocks to taking ShPL, but having spent every day for 6 months with my family has been the most fantastic experience and as a result I have developed a closer bond with my children. To be part of all the fun we had, as well as the hard times, and all the life-lessons we learnt, is something I will be forever thankful for. I know it will pay dividends in the future development of our children, whilst giving us memories for a lifetime.
Our advice is to take ShPL, if you can. Take as much and do as much as you can, think big and be bold. Ignore the naysayers and seek to create an experience that will stay with you forever. Be a part of your child’s life every day and teach them as much as you can about everything around them and enjoy watching them grow and develop.
Thank you for indulging me.
Splashing around on Bondi Beach
Swimming with the sharks
Sunset on the dunes
Obituaries
Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) John Charles Williams
John Williams was born on 17 February 1936 in Liverpool. He had a hard life as a youngster and at the earliest opportunity enlisted on 19 July 1951 as a Boy Student Trainee Musician in the Regimental Band of the 1st Battalion of the Cheshire Regiment based in Whittington Barracks, Lichfield in Staffordshire. At the time the Cheshire Regiment was serving in Cyprus, so John was seconded to the Regimental Band of the 16/5 Lancers. In May 1952 he joined the Army Apprentice School (which in 1966 became the Army Apprentice College) where he was a trainee Vehicle Mechanic as an Apprentice Tradesman. He retained his interest in music and became a member of the School Band. He passed out of the School in February 1955 and was posted to 21 Command Workshop, based in Ormskirk, Lancashire as a Craftsman Vehicle Mechanic providing support for B Vehicles in Western Command. After a short tour there he had a series of postings in the Far East where he rose rapidly through the ranks, May to October 1956 in 19 Signal Regiment LAD in Changi, Singapore, October 1956 to November 1958 as a Lance Corporal then Corporal on detachment in Sri Lanka, followed by November 1958 to March 1959 in 10 Infantry Workshop in Johore Baru, Malaya
He was selected for Artificer Training and promoted to Sergeant on posting in June 1959 to 6 Battalion REME as a Student on Artificer Vehicle Course 152. It was here that he met his future Wife Kathleen Ellen Rebecca Cheal known as Kay. They married on the 28 May 1960. His first posting as an Artificer in January 1961 was to 48 Command Workshop in Dhekelia, Cyprus where ran the Heavy Vehicle Repair Section of 33 Cypriot Civil Servant Tradesmen. In April 1964 he took up the post of Permant Staff Instructor in Liverpool University Officer Training Corps. On promotion to Warrant Office Class 2, in March 1966, he was posted to 14 Field Workshop in Berlin followed by a tour in 11 (Independent) Field Squadron Workshop in Malacca, Malaya from January to December 1969. On promotion to Warrant Officer Class 1 he was posted to Rheindahlen Workshop in Monchengladbach February 1970 to December 1972. This was followed by a tour in Headquarters Northen Ireland, at the height of The Troubles, January 1973 to August 1974, when he was selected for a Commission.
John’s first tour as an officer was as a Lieutenant Platoon Commander in the Army Apprentices College in Deepcut, September 1974 to December 1976. He was promoted to Captain and took up the appointment of Officer Commanding 32 Armoured Engineer Regiment Workshop in Munster lager January 1977 to December 1980. His second tour as a Captain was to Headquarters REME 3 Armoured Division in Korbecke as a Technical Staff Officer January 1981 to January 1983. On promotion to Major, he took up the appointment of Brigade Electrical and Mechanical Engineer in 6 Armoured Brigade, Soest from January 1983 to December 1984, this was his last overseas tour. He had two further tours as a Major, both as a Staff Officer. The first, January 1985 to October 1987, in the then Headquarters Director General Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (HQ DGEME) EME 7 in Andover and the second in Headquarters South West District in Bulford October 1987 to July 1988.
John was selected for promotion to Lieutenant Colonel and posted to the Vehicles and Weapons Branch in Chertsey, August 1988 to January 1990. His last tour of service was back in HQ DGEME as Staff Officer 1 in EME 2B responsible for the establishments of REME Units Worldwide, February 1990 to February 1991. He retired from the Army on 16 February 1991 and immediately took up a post as a Retired Officer in EME 2. He finally fully retired 16 February 1999.
John was very much a family man. He and Kay had two Daughters Karen and Lisa and three Sons Colin, Kevin and Trevor. They had 12 Grandchildren and 4 Great-Grandchildren. Having toured the World and lived in 17 Married Quarters, John and Kay finally settled down in their family home in Barton Stacey which they bought in 1987 as a surplus married quarter, so in effect they
still lived on the “Patch”. Sadly, Kay died of cancer on 17 July 2016. John was a devoted Liverpool Football Club fan, a talented Football player in his youth and enjoyed a beer or two. He passed away peacefully on 9 March 2024 in The Countess of Brecknock Hospice, Andover, with the four of his children who were in England at the time, by his side.
Lieutenant Colonel John Powell (Retired) 22nd December 1935 - 27th March 2024
Scribe: Mrs Sally Powell
It is with great sadness that I have to report the death of my Husband, John Powell, on 27th March 2024. He joined the Army in September 1951, aged 15½ and went to the Apprentice School, Beachley Camp, Chepstow. 51B. He left in August 1954 as a qualified Vehicle Mechanic. His first posting in 1954 was to 27 Command Workshop REME Warminster with accommodation at Sutton Veny Camp. The camp is still there but now a Trading Estate.
In April 1958 he was posted to Mombasa, Kenya. He saw a lot of Kenya and also had a 4 month detachment to Aden (now Yemen). In 1959 he was posted to Munster Germany and worked with the RMPs. In 1960 he came home to Westbury sub Mendip and we got married. The RMP’s found accommodation for us because in those days you didn’t automatically get a quarter, you had to wait until you had enough points. On our return from honeymoon to Munster, there was a letter waiting for him saying he was posted to Dusseldorf, the next week! This left me on my own where no one spoke English. After 3 months we were allocated a quarter in Dusseldorf, the best one we ever had.
In 1963 John was posted to 12 Armoured Workshop in Osnabruck. The following year he was posted back to Aden to take part in the Radfan Campaign where he was involved in suppressing a revolt and taking the main rebel stronghold. It was known as Operation CAP BADGE. With this posting being unaccompanied,
Lt Col (Retd) John Powell
I moved back to Shepton Mallet and lived with my Mother for a year. In 1964 John was posted to Colchester.
In 1968 John was posted to Bordon to do his Artificer course, he passed with flying colours, and was posted to Catterick; he was hoping to be posted back to Germany, but we had a lovely time visiting the wonderful Yorkshire Dales.
In 1972, our last posting was to 4/7 The Royal Dragoon Guards in Tidworth, we bought our first house in Charlton, Andover and both became members of Tidworth Garrison Golf Club, enjoying many years of happy Golf and making many friends. This association continued for over 50 years. While at the Golf Club John served on many committees, was Club Captain1996–1997, Club Chairman 2001-2002 and Chairman of the Centenary Committee in 2007.
He was very meticulous in everything he did and a highly skilled tradesman with a wealth of experience and knowledge.
In 1975 at age 40, John was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and progressed to Lieutenant Colonel by the time he’d done his 40 years in 1990. Due to his rank he continued to work for the Army officially for another 5 years, working as an RO at LEA in Andover. During these years John did unaccompanied short postings to various Regiments nearby plus 6 months in Belize, Northern Ireland and was involved, logistically, in the Falklands War of 1982.
We moved to Ludgershall in 1987 and John volunteered to help in the library once a week, and he ended up organising the rotas for all the volunteers, which he thoroughly enjoyed as he loved books and reading.
He joined the Ludgershall Royal British Legion, was instrumental in organising the Centenary gardens and bench in the centre of Ludgershall and honoured to lay a wreath at the Ludgershall Memorial Celebrating the end of WW1.
John also became a member of the Rotary Club of Andover, being on many committees organising tin shakes, lots of charity events, shoe boxes, going to the annual conferences and making many friends. He was presented with the Paul Harris fellowship in 2006/2007 which was in appreciation for all his daily activities and someone who promotes Rotary by their actions and involements ‘Service Above Self’. He was President in 2010-2011.
We moved to Lavender Cottage in Sutton Veny in March 2020 to downsize, the first week of lockdown, so not a very pleasant time and didn’t make many friends, but did do a lot of gardening and rides around the country side – so his first ever posting became his final posting, how fitting.
John was a much loved Husband, Father, Grandfather to 3 Grandsons, 2 Granddaughters and a Great Grandson. He will be missed by all his close friends and family. Forever in my heart.
24069576 Cpl Brian Launder
Death Notices
BRADLEY – Ken Bradley passed away on 28th April, aged 91. He joined REME in November 1950 and served in Malta and Egypt and also spent time in Cyprus. After Regular service he joined the Reserves for a period of time.
BROWN – Former REME Major Mike Brown MBE passed away peacefully at home on Saturday 4th May 2024, aged 77. His REME service (1966 to 1993) included postings at Aden, Munster, Northern Ireland, Bunde, Minden, Arborfield and Chertsey. Upon retiring from military service, Mike worked in industry for Thales and Ryder before returning to the Army as a civil servant. He is survived by his Wife Jenny, children Nigel and Catherine, and Grandchildren George and Molly. He will be greatly missed by all friends and family.
DALE – Major (Retired) Alan John Dale passed away on the 20th May 24, aged 58. Served with the Corps between 1985-2004.
HUTCHINS – Former Staff Sergeant John Hutchins passed away on 10th May 2024, aged 76. He served with the Corps between 7th August 1963 and 30th October 1978; joining as an Army Apprentice at Arborfield, intake 63C, then serving in the UK and BAOR.
KEAST – Col (Retired) Barrie George Keast passed away on 17th May 2024 aged 94. He served with the Corps between 1945-1985.
LANHAM – Former Cpl Dennis Lanham, passed away on 1st May 2024 aged 100 years. A founder member of the Corps.
TYSON – Major (Retired Reserves) John Edward Tyson passed away on 30th April 2024, aged 91. He served with the Corps between 1958-1971.
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 Hardwidge Corps Welfare Manager on ( 07936 902415 or welfare@remecharity.org
Where are they now?
Scribe: Bob Cownie
Sadly, Brian died on the 15th April this year. In January 1973 Brian transferred from the Royal Signals into the REME as a Metalsmith, where he completed two tours of Northern Ireland and was posted to the Armoured Trials and Development Unit in Bovington. Whilst with the REME, Brian successfully represented his Corps in many motorcycle events in both the BAOR and the UK. Being a restless soul and seeking new challenges, in 1979 he transferred from the REME into the RCT and in 1989 left the Army in the rank of SSgt after 23 years service. During the post Army years, Brian had a number of jobs including a risk management role in Baghdad and as the Project Manager for the preparation of the Kingston Cricket Ground in Jamaica for the 2006 Cricket World Cup. He remained a keen motorcyclist and was also a popular golfer as a member of the Richmond (North Yorkshire) Golf Club. Brian was a great fun-loving family man and was loved dearly by his Wife, Carole, children Debra and Simon, and grandchildren, Josh, Kate, Thomas and Erin. Cpl Brian Launder
My name is Bob (Robert Cownie and I have been trying to locate a number of Arborfield Old Boys, particularly those from 66b. I have been fairly successful with the help of a number of friends; especially those who are members of the Arborfield Old Boys Association (AOBA) and I have contacted a few REME organisations, and others such as Army Pensions etc.. without any luck.
I have been searching for an old and dear colleague of mine from our Army Apprentice College (AAC) days at Arborfield. The person I am looking for is Bob (Robert) Littlewood, we spent 3 years together at AAC and during that time his parents looked after me as a second Son. After Arborfield we went our different ways. Some years later in 1975/76 we bumped into each other at SEE, Arborfield on our Tiffy courses.
Occasionally I heard from friends that had met him, and my last meeting with Bob was in 1986/7 when he was serving as an ASM at the Army Scaling Authority in Woolwich. I have searched with no luck so far and have renewed my search having read the article in the April edition of The Craftsman.
I would be grateful to hear from anyone who knows of Bob’s whereabouts or his current situation.
Please get in touch with the Editor who will pass on any information to myself.
London Gazette
07 May No entries 14 May no entries 21 May
REGULAR ARMY
Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
Major (Acting Lieutenant Colonel) S. P. GOOSE 24870446 to be Lieutenant Colonel 3 February 2024
Short Service Commissions
Lieutenant G. RAWAL 30327486 to be Captain 16 February 2024
Intermediate Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
Warrant Officer Class 1 Gareth John BEZANT 25168515 to be Captain 1 April 2024
Short Service Commissions
Officer Cadet Matthew EDWARD 30235056 from The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to be Second Lieutenant 13 April 2024
Officer Cadet Robert Francis GRIFFITHS 30405674 from The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to be Second Lieutenant 13 April 2024
Officer Cadet Jonathan Adam HARDING 30289515 from The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to be Lieutenant 13 April 2024
Officer Cadet Fraser Conrad MCGREADY 30327913 from The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to be Second Lieutenant 13 April 2024
Officer Cadet Jacob Francis WEST 30353250 from The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst to be Second Lieutenant 13 April 2024
REME Squash Championships 24 – 26 Sept 24
Aldershot Garrison Sports Centre GU11 2LQ Event Includes:
• Major and Minor Unit Competition
• Main Individual Open Plate Competition
• Female Competition
• Age Range Competitions (U25, 25-30, O35 & O40)
• This Competiton is open to all serving Regular, Reserves and FTRS personnel
Officer Assignments July 2024
Name Unit Assigned to Date of Assignment
Lieutenant Colonel
ELLIS LK HQ FIELD ARMY ACOS PLANS – SO1 Performance and Risk 01-Jul-24
EVANS AI OP INTERLINK – PJHQ ARMY IDCCHQ58 SO1 MAINTENANCE 01-Jul-24
EVANS R JAC CAE ANDOVER – SO1 ES Avn Plans 01-Jul-24
LAVELLE MD HQ FIELD ARMY DCOS EQPT –SO1 EQPT 22-Jul-24
SMITH MT PJHQ – NSE (EE) – PJHQ ARMY NSEGp001 COMD NSE EE 01-Jul-24
Major
BARNES GR Project HARMONIA – SO2 Land Future Capacity 19-Jul-24
BOOTH CT DES COMJE HELS HELS1 WILDCAT YVL DES DGLAND OF3 WILDCAT IN SERVICE DEL MGR 29-Jul-24
BROWN PA 5 BN REME QM DEPT – OC HQ COY 01-Jul-24
CHIGNELL GS MBE LWC PLANS – SO2 TRG POL ES 29-Jul-24
MARSH CP DSEME LYNEHAM RAS – SO2 ENG MANAGEMENT TRG 15-Jul-24
MCAFEE OJ D Futures FFD Research and Experimentation – SO2b Experiments 23-Jul-24
Further Information
WO1 (ASM) Christopher Morris Email: Christopher.Morris784@mod.gov.uk
MCDAVID IV MBE 9 TS BN REME HQ COY – QM 22-Jul-24 REDFERN KV OP INTERLINK – PJHQ ARMY IDCCHQ59 SO2 Maintenance 29-Jul-24 SARSFIELD RW DES COMLAND LE VST ABW – DES DGLAND OF3 LE VST OPS MGR SO2 A 23-Jul-24 SHRIMPTON
GRACE LJ HQ 4 INFANTRY BDE AND HQ NE – SO3
OPS
GRANT ED 9 TS BN REME – ADJT
GRIFFITHS JL HQ ARRC SP DIV – SO3 SP DIV MAINT OPS 01-Jul-24 HAM CJ 101 BN REME – ADJT 08-Jul-24
HIGGINS S 13 AIR ASSLT SP REGT RLC LAD REME – OC 01-Jul-24
KIPLING CH 102 BN REME – QM 01-Jul-24
LEO DJ 16 SIG REGT LAD REME – OC 08-Jul-24
LIVINGSTONE AB 26 REGT RA WKSP REME – SYS ENGR 01-Jul-24 NAKER V KRH HQ SQN – OC LAD 08-Jul-24
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The REME Charity
The Trustees of The REME Charity acknowledge with sincere thanks the donations received during the month of MAY. They also wish to acknowledge the regular subscriptions received from the Officers and Soldiers of the Corps and retired members of the REME Institution: From
Mrs Pybus in memory of Anthony William Pybus
In memory of Mr Donald John Hill
In memory of Alan George Clarke .................................................£140.00
Dear Editor,
Your readers will have spotted in The Craftsman that I appear to win the raffle at the Potteries & District Branch of the REME Association Tuesday lunches many times, see latest edition, May 2024, page 33. There are two reasons for my success, firstly, I buy a raffle ticket, and secondly, I buy lots of them, after all, the funds collected go to a very worthy cause!
Members are asked to bring a raffle prize and I usually take chocolates or biscuits but as can be seen in the latest winning photograph, a bottle, or 6, of alcohol is always a good prize. Anyone in the Potteries & District area who wants to attend the lunches and buy a raffle ticket (you might get lucky) should contact the Branch –see flyer for details.
Arte et Marte.
John
Edwards OBE
Vice President
Potteries & District Branch of the REME Association
Were you, or are you in the REME?
The Potteries & District REME Association is your local Branch.
We would warmly welcome any Regular/Reserve or Retired members of the Corps who may be residing in the area to come along and join us.
Where and when?
On the fourth Tuesday of the month at the Meir/Longton RBL Club, 195/197 Meir Road, ST3 7JF at 1900hrs
For full details please email the Branch Secretary Brian Billings at brianbillings@btinternet.com or Branch President Maurice Hope on mohope118@gmail.com
Date sent to Craftsman 07/06/2024
Facebook: REME Association Potteries Branch
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: 07936902415 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 ( 07936902415, welfare@remecharity.org.
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 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.
Corps Calendar 2024
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. All dates correct at time of printing, please check your monthly Craftsman magazine for amendments.
