9 Regiment RLC LAD

Foreword: SSgt Gore-Rowe (Art Veh)

As the Logistic Supply Regiment for the Theatre Enabling Group, 9 Regt RLC are held at constant high readiness. This has seen the LAD involved in many activities including events such as Ex DEFENDER 20 Europe, Op CATTALO (Oman) and Op WINTER PREPARDENESS.

We have all experienced a turbulent past 12 months and 9 Regt LAD is no different. Operating with a reduced workforce during the first lockdown meant that small teams worked in shift “bubbles” to reduce the infection impact whilst also still being able to maintain the Readiness fleet. Adopting a “learning to live with COVID” mentality has seen us develop new ways of working in barracks and deployed. We have been able to deploy on CT exercise WOLF REFRESH, support NHS Ambulance Trusts in Sussex and Wales and continue routine support to other commitments such as Phase 2 driver training courses. The working tempo appears to be back on track with imminent deployment to the Balkans on Ex DEFENDER 21 and various training events throughout 2021, we have had an interesting and busy year.

Cfn Singh hard at work

Cpl Vaughan supervising Cfn Harrison changing the front axle on a 9T SV

Op WINTER PREPARDENESS – South East Ambulance Trust (SECAMB)

Scribe: Cpl Swithenbank (Rec Mech 1)

In support of the COVID-19 pandemic, members of 9 Regt RLC LAD deployed on Op WINTER PREPAREDNESS. The Military Assistance to the Civilian Authorities (MACA) task was to support the South East Coast Ambulance Service. My role within this operation was to drive and crew ambulances alongside a qualified paramedic.

The training package provided by SECAMB was delivered over a highly intensive two days. Day one consisted of theoretical and practical assessments, ensuring that we were both confident and competent at BLS, manual handling, infection control, and trauma management. The second day was orientated around the familiarisation and driving of an ambulance. We were assessed on our ability to drive to a high standard as SECAMB had to be sure that we were not a risk on the road. Once my training was complete, I received my shift pattern and was assigned to my crew.

The MATT 3 training that we receive as members of the Armed Forces was of only slight benefit, as BCD would have not been appropriate in a care home. Under direct supervision of my Paramedic guardian angel, I was thrown into the fray. I was both nervous and excited, but ready to get stuck in. The calls we attended during the operation were unpredictable and varied; the excitement of not knowing what you’re going to be involved in kept my adrenaline pumping and the desire to learn high. The vast number of COVID-19 positive patients I visited confirm to myself that the danger was real.

Cpl Swithenbank looking dapper geared up working on the ambulances

I have had my eyes opened to the total professionalism and dedication to those in need that the NHS provides. My level of appreciation and respect for these heroes is unmeasurable, I am both honoured and privileged to have had the chance to work alongside the Ambulance Service. I found this to be an invaluable life experience, and feel that I have given my contribution towards helping during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Op CATTALO

Scribe: Cpl Rai (VM 1)

Op CATTALO is an operation to execute the redeployment of UK forces from Afghanistan in anticipation of a draw down to zero. This is part of a wider departure of all Coalition forces by May 2021. Our HQ was based in Duqm, which is a port town on the Arabian Sea in Al Wusta in central-eastern Oman. The average temperatures ranged from 24 degrees to 33 degrees throughout the deployment. The port in Oman has previously been used for TEG activities for both SS3 in 2018 and subsequent UK exercises with logistic activities.

I was deployed on Op CATTALO between September 20 and February 21. Throughout the deployment, REME personnel contributed and completed several tasks in an unfamiliar environment IOT facilitate the redeployment of equipment back to the UK. It is testament to the flexibility and ‘can do’ attitude from all REME personnel that were able to deliver challenging Ops whilst adhering to the Covid-19 safety measures.

As the main person responsible for maintaining the Rough Terrain Container Handler (RTCH), I occasionally worked alongside 7 other VM’s from 5 Bn REME repairing various platforms including RTCH, Foxhounds and various other B vehicles. I learnt a tremendous amount in the austere conditions, enabling me to broaden my knowledge and expertise.

Some of the issues that arose during my time in theatre was mainly due to the constant changing of equipment standard levels. Availability had to remain high due to all equipment being in constant use with little or no redundancy, including there being only one RTCH which required regular maintenance to stay taskworthy for critical tasks. We managed to keep the equipment well

Cpl Rai always finds time to work on his catalogue pose

maintained which enabled all freight movement to meet deadlines.

My time spent in Oman was a great experience and was different to all previous operations and deployments. I feel that the REME made a huge impact in enabling logistics to run smoothly which hopefully helped in the bigger picture of this redeployment effort.

Share your global stories with the REME Family

The Craftsman Magazine showcases the activities of the Corps all over the world in our monthly Global Reach feature. Whether you’re involved in an Exercise, an Operation, or participating in Sport, this is your opportunity to share your international experiences with the REME Family.

To be featured, simply send a few sentences (and some photos) telling us where you are, why you are there, and what you are doing.

Send to the Craftsman Editor at: craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk

Please ensure all Global Reach submissions have been cleared by the CoC. We cannot accept anything that is Of昀cial-Sensitive (OS) or higher AND it must have been cleared for public knowledge.