Op Moonshot

As part of the continuing effort against COVID-19, in November 2020 REME personnel from 32 Engineer Regiment deployed to Liverpool as part of local mass testing.

OC LAD: Capt M Trevarthen ASM: WO1 (ASM) P Fenwick Scribe: Cpl Spence

Amidst the coronavirus pandemic, Liverpool quickly became known as the city that had a rapidly increasing number of positive COVID-19 cases in comparison to the wider UK. With the statistics soaring, the Government deployed military personnel to work in conjunction with Liverpool and Merseyside’s local councils and supporting professionals. The construction and roll out of several test sites using rapid 30-minute lateral flow tests was a process being trialled to assist in the track, trace and control of the virus. This was key in gathering vital data for onwards analysis and subsequent implementation. Conceptually, this would require the local population, in mass, to undertake lateral flow tests to gauge asymptomatic or symptomatic results, supporting a reduction of positive cases in the area.

On 5 November 2020, the Regiment deployed two Squadrons, 26 and 37 Sqn respectively, in support of Op MOONSHOT. Due to layered readiness commitments, the LAD supported the commitment under OPCON of 39 Engineer Regiment. Augmenting 37 Sqn and armed with motivation and determination, LAD personnel deployed from Marne Bks, Catterick and headed for their new Liverpool accommodation, Pontins! Shortly after arrival and on completion of some rapid training serials, we quickly began constructing portable test centres across the city. Applying sound engineering logic to the construction, the multiple test centres were built on time every time. Any residual time prior to testing allowed us to offer some tips and tricks to our RE peers, adding real opportunity to grow as an inclusive team whilst increasing production.

Once the construction of the test centres was completed, we were placed in localised teams and began mass testing. Our team was tasked with testing schools. In teams of sixteen, team members were assigned to roles ranging from; registering pupils for the test, escorting pupils to and from the test centre, recording the results and aiding the pupils in administering the tests through detailed explanation of the process. The application of Lean naturally found its way into our daily routine! Impressively, we completed an average of two hundred tests a day. We had four schools in total to test, averaging around six hundred pupils each.

Thanks to the combined efforts of the Armed Forces and Liverpool and Merseyside Councils, over ten thousand tests a day were being completed. In less than four weeks Liverpool and Merseyside went from one of the worst infection rates in the country to being registered as a Tier Two area. The integration of REME Soldiers within 37 Squadron created strong team cohesion and will no-doubt set us up for success in-barracks. We have learned new skills, developed multi-cap badged relations and added value towards a COVID-19 resolution.

Team members at a local school