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.
PHOTOGRAPHS: MUST be submitted separately, in jpeg format and be at least 500kb preferably 1mb or more. Only photos over 3mb can be considered for the front/back covers and please remember captions.
FILESHARE: websites, such as dropbox are ideal for submitting larger files.
EMAIL: The ONLY email address which should be used is: craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk. Not MODnet. Please use the article title not ‘Craftsman Article’ as the email title.
TIMINGS: The latest submission date is the first day of the month prior to publication. This does not guarantee the article will be published in that specific edition.
Births, Engagements, Marriages and Deaths: These will be inserted free to all past and present members of the Corps.
Contents:
The contents of The Craftsman are strictly copyright and all rights are expressly reserved. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the policy and views, official or otherwise, of the Editor, the Corps or the MOD, therefore no responsibility for these will be accepted. Whilst including an advertisement we are not necessarily endorsing the product and as a result, the publisher and its agents do not accept responsibility for any transaction between the reader and the advertiser. Whilst we take all precautions with regard to advertising, readers are advised to take professional advice before entering into any commitments. Letters concerning reproduction, contributions or any other matter should be addressed to the Editor.
General Handling: This publication contains official information and should be treated with discretion.
REME Personnel and Equipment Support in the Special Operations Brigade
TDeputy Commander, Army Special Operations Brigade
he Chief of the General Staff (CGS) has laid down a clear challenge to the pre-War generation in the Army; we must double then treble our lethality. I will use this editorial to introduce the Army Special Operations Brigade (ASOB) to the uninitiated, suggest how ASOB will contribute to meeting CGS’ challenge, and reflect on the implications for the Equipment Support force elements in the Brigade.
Predominantly comprised of the four Ranger Regiments and centred around Aldershot, ASOB also has organic Intelligence and Communications support and provides the home for the Joint Counter Terrorist Training and Advisory Team (JCTTAT). Media interest is high; press releases show the units deployed in Africa and the Middle East with their non-standard uniforms and weapon systems.
Such equipment can fuel the arguments of the detractors of the Brigade, but it helps to have the best tools available when working at risk and reach. Less talked about is the tele-medicine and tele-ES the troops can practice; capabilities that greatly augment the Combat Service Support (CSS) in the Brigade that the role demands to be light and often draws on host-nation support. Yet, I would argue that the most exciting part of being in ASOB lies not in the physical tools used, but in the conceptual component. A dynamic mindset is required to build up an organisation from nothing to where it aspires to be. And
this makes ASOB a great place to work.
As the British Army mobilises to counter the emerging threats from peers in Europe and become entirely interoperable with NATO, the ASOB is developing from a Special Operations Forces (SOF) organisation principally focused on countering violent extremists, to a capability with a clear role in warfighting. ASOB forms a vital component of Advance Force Operations by forming partnerships in the places that matter, as the leading edge of an integrated Land SOF enterprise. And whilst it is not anticipated that the light forces of ASOB will strike the decisive blow in state-on-state conflict, ASOB’s ability to shape the battlespace through SOF activity is intended to provide commanders with options and the adversary with strategic dilemmas. This will create the conditions for the UK military to support key partners, either bilaterally or most likely through NATO, and enable the Joint Force.
For the Equipment Support practitioner, this is about more than keeping fit equipment in the hands of the user and the punch in the Army’s fist. It is about helping to develop and form the fist and deliver the blow. This opportunity arises from the nature of SOF operations and its heavy focus on partnering, which demands that any sensor and any effector be used. The sense of writing history is clear in ASOB today. So, to illustrate how all this looks and feels, I will use two historical examples of the SOF mindset and the equipment support element of it.
We begin where the modern SOF concept arguably began, with the British example in the Megiddo Campaign of 1918. Here, the Allied Egyptian Expeditionary Force under British General Allenby coordinated with King Feisal’s Northern Arab Army to defeat the Ottoman Empire in Jordan and Syria. The SOF element lay in the mentorship of the Arab Army by a small number of British officers, including T.E. Lawrence. This was offset activity to deliver a defeat of Axis Powers in Europe through a campaign in the Middle East. Joint Force manoeuvre enabled by partnered indigenous forces is exactly the type of activity that ASOB sees itself involved in today.
Lawrence employed his Arab partners to create fighting ‘mass’. His mantra to use
the ‘smallest force, in the quickest time, at the farthest place’ was enabled by locally acquired Intelligence and driven through raids against enemy supply lines, materiel, and logistics. The Hejaz Railway, the Turks’ only supply lifeline to Medina, stretched for 800 miles, so along with mastery of fundamental sabotage skills such as improvised explosives, it also placed a huge demand on mobility provided by improvised vehicles.
Spitting lead and flame, five armoured Rolls-Royce Silver Ghosts were shipped to Lawrence’s team and brought British thunder to Arabia. The 1914 pattern cars used by Lawrence had a strong chassis that proved reliable, despite the rugged terrain (Pic 1).
Also brought in were four lighter vehicles that provided the speed required to dislocate the enemy. This enabled the philosophy that ‘range is more to strategy than force’ and provided an asymmetric advantage (Pic 2). One of the iconic images of the campaign; Lawrence’s stripped-down car parked in Damascus having assisted a force of Emir Feisal’s Arabian cavalrymen to liberate the city from the Ottoman Empire, October 1918.This new capability placed a clear demand on self-sustaining support to equipment at reach in a way that we would be familiar with today. It also required knowledge of adversary logistics to know where to strike, and to advise their partner force accordingly. In this way, the ES practitioner was as much a part of providing the targeted solution as the Infantry soldier (Pic 3).
Remaining regionally constant but skipping through time to provide a more contemporary example, we turn to US Special Operations in Iraq in 2003 under Task Force Viking. Green Berets partnered with
circa 52,000 Peshmerga to find, fix, disrupt and, in some cases, defeat an Iraqi force whilst establishing a lodgement for the inflow of the Joint Force. This enabled the Coalition main effort from Kuwait to Baghdad to seize Iraq and remove Saddam Hussein from power (Pic 4).
Force ‘mass’ was created through indigenous partnering and provision of Fires and Logistics. All of this enabled the Peshmerga to manoeuvre and turn areas previously denied to them and the coalition, into contested areas, thus diverting Iraqi forces.
Synchronised with the invasion of the Allied Joint Force in the South of Iraq, the activity of the Peshmerga on the Northern front was a force multiplier and arguably fixed thirteen Iraqi Divisions and prevented them reinforcing in the South (Pic 5).
Less known about is the long-term persistent capacity building that the US undertook during the period from the end of the First Gulf War (1991) until the action in question in 2003. Trust and influence were built up over time using a number of engagements that we may recognise as the short-term training tasks that we practice today (Pic 6). A not insignificant part of that engagement was developing an equipment programme that allowed the Peshmerga to conduct the actions that would follow. We have long provided shoot, move, communicate, and medicate skills to partner forces and this example has shown what the addition of equipping a force can provide. It demands the skills of Equipment Support specialists and is mirrored in the International Donor Coordination Centre’s efforts in support of Ukraine today that provides a point of access for SOF (see Col Rich Newland’s Craftsman editorial from Jun 24).
Both examples given above demonstrate the innovative use of equipment support to SOF activity to help provide an asymmetric advantage to the Joint Force. They also point towards an uncertain future. The adversary is now innovating faster than we can imagine, and their tactics will be unrecognisable.
The pace of development in a future war will outstrip the ability of a top-down approach to move us from the industrial age to the information age. Highly skilled and entrepreneurial Engineers are needed to support the response of the Army Special Operations Brigade to the new threat.
Careers and Employment Support Event
Thursday 10th Oct 24
Open to all REME service leavers currently in the rese琀lement, REME reservists, and veterans are also invited to a琀end.
A fantas琀c opportunity to engage with companies that have an Engineering and Technical focus.
For service leavers, this is an excellent networking opportunity to assist with the transi琀on into civilian employment.
The event will be held in the Ca琀erick Garrison Leisure Centre, DL9 3EL. The majority of exhibitors a琀ending are na琀onal companies and have vacancies available across the
Ex SUPREME GLACIER 2023: The Snowboard Apex
Scribe: Sgt Corrieri
Week 0 Sharpening skills on fresh powder
Nestled in the snow-capped embrace of Stubai, Austria, the Ex SUPREME GLACIER is the home of REME Snowboarding. Annually, this event transforms into a crucible of competition and camaraderie, welcoming riders from the raw novices to the seasoned Army Veterans. The crescendo of this Snowboard symphony is the third week of ‘’Competition Week’’ a time when the mountain air is thick with anticipation and the promise of glory at the Ex SNOW JACK early next year.
REME INSTRUCTORS REMIND AND REFRESH TRAINING – 13 NOV 23
Upon arrival, the forecast was grim—scant snowfall and barren slopes. Yet, fortune favoured the brave; a serendipitous powder dump greeted us, draping the mountain in pristine white just in time for training. This initial week served as a sandbox for the Corps Instructors, a time to exchange wisdom, refine techniques, and reacquaint the mountain’s myriad of challenges. It was a prelude to the mentorship they would offer in the weeks to come; particularly at the renowned Banger Park.
Weeks 1 & 2: From Green Runs to Red Slopes
The 18th of November marked a recordbreaking influx of over 80 snowboarders, each burning with the desire to carve their legacy into the slopes. Grouped by skill, they were guided by Instructors who channelled their expertise into every turn and trick.
The novices, particularly, showed a remarkable trajectory, swiftly graduating from green and blue runs to confidently tackling the more demanding red slopes. As the second week waned, the courses beckoned, and riders honed their slalom skills, each second shaved off their time a triumph. The Slopestyle (SS) training that followed tested their mettle against the unforgiving ice, but as the sun softened the snow, the riders rose to the occasion, their tricks a testament to their tenacity.
Chris Jacks training our novices, Day 1
Week 3: The Snowboard Arena
The competition was a spectacle of speed and skill, with novices standing toe-to-toe with the open-category riders. The Slalom sliced through the silence of the mountain, a blur of racers vying for the quickest descent. The PGS (Parallel Giant Slalom) upped the ante, pitting riders against each other in a high-stakes duel down the slopes.
Boardercross was a maelstrom of adrenaline, with riders weaving through a gauntlet of jumps and turns. This year’s course, a masterpiece crafted by the Red Ski School, was a marvel that pushed the riders to their limits. And as the semis approached, the sun broke through, casting a golden glow on the icy track.
The SS, a crowd favourite, was the grand finale, a canvas for riders to showcase their style across an array of features, from the urban allure of rails to the gravity-defying wall rides.
Voices from the Slopes
LCpl Jaden Dobson reflected on his journey, “The Supreme Glacier was a fantastic experience. Witnessing the calibre of riders inspired me to aim higher, to conquer the larger kickers. Though my final run ended in a tumble, however the experience was nothing short of exhilarating.”
Cpl Jamen Caufield shared his sentiments, “The past weeks have been an enlightening journey into the broader realm of Army Snowboarding. The spirit of friendly rivalry was invigorating, and I’m already counting the days until we return to these hallowed slopes.”
Ex SNOW JACK 24 (Army Championships)
The 21st of January 2024 dawned clear and crisp in Flachau, Austria, setting the stage for the 17 elite riders chosen to represent this year’s team. They wasted no time, immediately taking to their race boards to master the art of carving in preparation for the Slalom – a dance with gravity and speed.
WO2 Brent Rikalans – Perfect demonstration, how not to do it
Round 1 – The Boardercross knockouts
Slalom Training – Stage 1, mastering the turns
Army team Captain – WO2
Dale Gallagher – Rail Training
Precision on the Piste: The Slalom Challenge
Cpl Lewis Robinson, the reigning champion of ExSG 23’s Slalom, surveyed the course with a critical eye. “It’s a more intricate beast than anticipated,” he mused. “Goofy riders may have the edge with icy patches playing to their strengths. My strategy? A cautious first run, then full throttle on the second.”
Despite the whims of weather—thick snowfall and veiled visibility—the PGS unfolded with an air of intrigue. The REME team, clad in their distinctive red Army jackets, emerged triumphant, dominating the leader board and securing 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 3 spots in the top eight.
From Novice to Champion: The Rise of Cfn Jamie Forde
Cfn Jamie Forde’s journey from Snowboarding neophyte to ExSG23’s ‘Best Novice’ is nothing short of remarkable. His tenacity in Stubai earned him a place on the team, and at Ex SNOW JACK 24, he continued to defy expectations. In the SBX (Snowboard Cross) final, an unexpected clash with a competitor threatened his run. Yet, justice prevailed; following an appeal, the judges awarded Forde the gold; a testament to his skill and spirit.
REME’s Unyielding Spirit: The SBX Saga
The SBX course was unforgiving, its hardpacked surface is a testament to resilience. Bruises were worn like badges of honour as the REME riders swept the competition, claiming the top five positions, along with accolades for ‘Best Novice’ and ‘Best Female.’
Absolute Park: A Freestyle Wonderland
As the training shifted to freestyle, Absolute Park stood as a colossus among snow parks, its vast array of features – from the urban sprawl of railyards to the towering Proline kickers –challenging riders to push their creative boundaries. This year’s layout, boasting two feature sections and three kickers, was a playground for the daring, a place where riders could unleash their most audacious tricks and leave their mark on the snow.
VICTORY!
Once again the REME Corp Snowboard Team were crowned Champions of Ex SNOW JACK and took home the Corp Trophy. Podiums from WO2 Dale Gallager in the Slalom, SBX and Freestyle, Sgt Manktelow and Bradley in the Slalom, and
22nd Jan – Race boards out ready for race training
Cpl Lewis Robinson – Zoned in ahead of qualifying
23rd Jan – Great first event for the team taking all podium positions
SSgt Dave Grant, Sgt Dan Robinson also in the SBX. On the female side Sgt Lynsey Corrieri came away with women’s SBX win.
Another fantastic result for REME Snowboarding! This then seen 6 members of the team go on to represent the Army at the Inter-Service Snow Sports Championships (ISSSC)!
The Thrill of Victory: REME Riders Shine at ISSSC 2024
The ISSSC 24 carved its way through the powdery slopes of Meribel, France, from February 3rd to 10th. A beloved tradition in the heart of the Meribel 3 Valleys, the ISSSC has been a stage for friendly yet fierce competition among the Army, Navy, and RAF for numerous years. This year, the event welcomed the Australian Defence Force, adding an international flair to the high-octane races.
The Competition Heats Up
The Army’s selection of six elite riders from the REME as representives at the ISSSC 24 was a strategic move that paid off. Competing in SBX, PGS, and SS, the team arrived from Flachau with fire in their bellies and snowboards ready to carve.
Despite the tight schedule, the REME riders aced the SBX qualifiers, with WO2 Dale Gallagher blazing through to the finals and clinching a well-deserved silver medal.
Sgt Luke Manktelow remarked, “This year’s SBX course was a cut above the previous, with starting features that favoured the technically skilled and sections ripe for overtaking, keeping the competition fierce.”
A Night Under the Lights
The PGS qualifiers dawned on a pristine bluebird day, setting
Cfn Jamie Forde – Our Novice rider ahead of SBX
Absolute Park, Flachau – Freestyle training week
WO2 Gallagher 2nd SBX
the stage for a showdown on the icy slalom course. Three REME riders sliced into the top 16, earning their spot to race under the starry sky at the illustrious “Stad.” The night race was a spectacle of precision and speed, with SSgt Dave Grant and Cpl Dan Robinson outmanoeuvring the ice to secure the top spots and the honour of receiving their medals from our Colonel-In-Chief, HRH Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh; who attended the event in her role as the Patron of the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Association.
Cpl Dan Robinson shared, “Racing at inters was a blast, especially the night slalom. Despite the challenging ice patches, it was inspiring to see the REME’s younger talent rise through the ranks and excel.”
Slopestyle Showdown
The Slopestyle event was the grand finale, with a full day dedicated to mastering the course’s rails and kickers. Six riders were handpicked for the challenge, including REME’s SSgt Dave Grant and Cpl Lewis Robinson. The teams brought their A-game; executing “steezy” tricks that left the judges in awe. In the end, the Army team triumphed by a mere two points, a testament to the razor-thin margins that define the sport’s elite.
Conclusion
The REME Snowboard team left an indelible mark on the Army Champs, showcasing their skill, unity, and relentless spirit. They navigated the capricious weather and terrain with gusto, all while savouring the breath-taking vistas of the Austrian Alps. More than a competition, the ISSSC 24 was a celebration of camaraderie and the relentless pursuit of Snowboarding excellence.
Get involved in 2024/2025!
If you would like to get involved in REME Snowboarding follow us on Defence Connect, Facebook and Instagram for all information on how to apply for spaces for involvement on Ex SUPREME GLACIER, Ex SNOW JACK and all updates regarding REME Snowboarding throughout the season.
Scan the QR code below to register your units interest!
SSgt Grant 1st, Cpl Robinson 3rd
Army Team SS team 1st
SSgt Grant ‘’Double Roast Beef’’ grab in SS
REME Festival of Sport (FoS) 2024 –Celebrating Camaraderie and Competitive spirit
The Hook – Social Lubricant Tokens a Plenty
So immediately you may be thinking yeah, ok, another article about sport and all those opportunities that I have not been able to partake in while I have been deployed. So why do I need to read any further, let me paraphrase Shakespeare and say ‘Friends, Colleagues, Sport enthusiasts, lend me your ears’ and I will explain.
More importantly, if you are one of those people that simply flick through the magazine, looking for pictures and names to seek additional sources of social lubricant then look no further – names a plenty with the odd picture thrown in for good measure(s).
The Festival
The REME Festival of Sport (FoS) brings together the REME family in a celebration of athletic prowess and camaraderie. This year’s FoS, held at MOD Lyneham from 26-27 June, was a resounding success, showcasing the diverse talents and unwavering dedication of REME personnel. The FoS offers a unique opportunity for REME members to compete in a wide range of sports, from niche activities like Ice Hockey and dinghy Sailing to more traditional events like Football and Rugby. This year’s event featured 18 different sports, a testament to the Corps sport leads and their ability to cater to the varied interests and talents of our people.
Being centred in MOD Lyneham the event was planned in large parts by permanent staff from within 8 Training Battalion, but absolutely delivered by the wider Corps. A special mention and thank you for those involved, WO2 (QMSI) Kai Feldsmann, WO2 (AQMS) Paul Morris, WO2 (RQMS) Awashesh Gurung, and Sgt (SI) Lewis Bishop.
The FoS saw the participation of some 1,000 competitors from across 34 units along with an immediate support network of 59 people: these including sport OICs, Referees, Marshals,
32 RA LAD Minor Unit winners (Squash) with Lt Col Danny Proctor (right)
3 Bn Major Unit Winners (Squash) with Lt Col Danny Proctor (right)
Scribe: Major Craig Mumby
Powerlifting Winners
PTIs and wider Real Life Support (RLS) staff. It is important to recognise that the FoS only happens because of the sport leads and officials on the day. This impressive turnout underscores the importance of the FoS in fostering a sense of unity and esprit de corps within the REME community.
This year the REME FoS occurred against the backdrop of the largest, at reach, series of overseas exercises (Op LINOTYPER 24) the British Army has undertaken in decades. These deployments have placed significant demand on us all, the REME is the heartbeat of every unit, and while this year has been one of the lowest for competitors there remains huge
Winners of Clay Shooting
Winner of Clay Shooting
Men’s Powerlifting Team
positives – not least of all it demonstrates that this event must continue regardless of wider commitments.
Alongside the sporting competitions, the FoS also featured a vibrant festival atmosphere on the evening of 26 June. Attendees were treated to live music, food stands, fair attractions, and inflatable games, providing an opportunity to relax, recharge, and strengthen bonds with fellow REME members.
The Visit
In addition to the REME personnel, the multitude of sporting endeavours, and the festival atmosphere, the event was further enhanced by the presence of Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh on 26 June. The visit allowed the Duchess to demonstrate her own competitive spirit as well as provided an opportunity for her to speak to and gain an appreciation of the talent that we have within the Corps first hand. The Duchess also took part in the Clay Target Competition and observed the Tennis and Netball competitions. This further provided an ideal opportunity for her to engage with capped international athletes and demonstrate her appreciation for the talent within the REME. Additionally, the Duchess started the REME Mile, an event created by the outgoing Corps Colonel, Col Jason Phillips, who has been so pivotal in ensuring that the REME FoS has continued against the backdrop of all external pressures.
The FoS is more than just a sporting event; it is a celebration of the REME’s values; our professionalism, competence, and self-sacrifice. The event allows members to showcase their athletic abilities, network with colleagues, and identify emerging talent within the Corps. Most importantly, it embodies the “work hard, play hard” ethos that is so integral to the REME’s identity.
As the REME continues to face external pressures and demanding operational commitments, the FoS
Women’s Powerlifting Team
Col Jason Phillips ADC (Col REME) alongside The Duchess of Edinburgh and Major General Anna-Lee Reilly CB
REME Mile, and they're off
The Duchess of Edinburgh speaking to members of the Netball Team
Thanks
Firstly, to all those who took part in making the event a successful one, from the competitors and RLS team to those sport leads in planning and delivering the activities. Without people committing their own time this simply would not be possible:
Football
Rugby
Field Hockey
Cricket
Clay Target Shooting
Netball
Tennis
Squash
Basketball
Volleyball
Powerlifting
Relays
REME Mile
Athletics
BAWF
Dinghy Sailing
Ice Hockey
Badminton
SSgt Mark Cooper
WO1 (ASM) Geoff Hughes
Maj Simon Ratcliffe
WO2 (AQMS) Manjit Jhajj
WO1 (ASM) Peter Meager
Maj Jenny Thomas
WO1 (ASM) Andrew Bickerton
SSgt Warren Mitchell
Capt Benn Wahey
Sgt Jiwan Rai
SSgt Rob Davies
Capt Alvin Martin
Sgt Lewis Bishop
Lt Sam Jones
Cpl Chris Rivers
Maj Paul Isitt
WO2 (AQMS) Dale Feather
Sgt Suman Ninglekhu
remains a steadfast tradition, and testament to the resilience and camaraderie of our people. With the continued support and participation of REME personnel, this event will undoubtedly continue to thrive and inspire future generations.
Want to be a part of it:
The planning team and sport leads are always looking for support, to help not only the organisation on the day but more broadly to cohere Fd Army submissions and expressions of interest as early as possible in the planning cycle. It is never too early to start planning – so if you think you can help, please use the QR Code below.
Netball Team photo
Winners from the REME Mile
REME Festival. of Sport Expressiobn of Interest
REME Sports Association Awards Dinner 2024
Following an extremely successful Corps Festival of Sport, organised by a committee made up of Maj Mumby, WO2 Morris, WO2 Feldsman and WO2 Gurung and hosted by 8 Trg Bn REME – the REME Sports Association Awards Dinner took place in the Harris MM Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess in Lyneham on the evening of Thursday 27 July 2024.
This occasion is designed to showcase and celebrate the exceptional talents of our sportsmen and women and to reward those who have excelled in their respective sports and disciplines over the previous year. The evening was presided over by Lt Gen Simon Hamilton CBE on behalf of the Corps Master General and President of the REME Sports Association, Lt Gen David Eastman MBE. The REME Sports Association would like to take the opportunity to thank our many sponsors and friends for their invaluable support to Corps sport, particularly those in attendance on the night:
Main photo in the Harris MM WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess Garden
Lt Gen Simon Hamilton CBE addressing the audience
Alan Webb
AmeyBriggs
Army Sport
Aspire
Babcock
Carwood
Caterpillar
CGI
DB Santasolo
EKA
Engage
NP Aerospace Qioptiq
Spee3D
Supacat
Thales
Tomolly Invest Van Kappel bv
AeroGlow
Karvas
L4 Teamwear
Mauriteft
Mongoose
Royal Forces
Mutual Team Forces
Dinner then followed with Colonel REME delivering the annual REME Sports Association Synopsis for 2024. 32 Corps sports were represented, with the synopsis providing details of some incredible successes and achievements from across the Corps.
The first presentation of the evening was the REME Sports Official of the Year Award. The award celebrates excellence across officiating and is for service to the sport, through dedication and commitment. Awardees are
Guest speaker, former SSgt Spencer Whiteley
Guest Speaker Spencer Whiteley (finally) receiving his Corps Colours from Lt Gen Simon Hamilton CBE
Col REME reading out the Corps Synopsis
The REME Sports Association Official of The Year Award 2024 being collected on behalf of Cpl Jack Hillier, presented by Major General Lizzie Faithfull-Davies CBE
individuals who have shown progression through the officiating pathway. Congratulations to 2024’s winner who is Cpl Jack Hillier –Hockey.
The special guest speaker was up next, former REME Staff Sergeant Spencer Whiteley, who served between 1995 and 2010. He was invited to share with the audience his incredible journey. After a mortar landed at his feet during Op TELIC 10 in 2007, Spencer endured life changing injuries. His recovery has been remarkable, reaching two World CrossFit Games Finals and securing his qualification for this year’s World Championships. His speech, which focused on sport, pushing oneself to the limits and building the resilience needed to succeed was an inspirational one. It was greatly appreciated by all in attendance.
A tough act to follow, but up next was the REME Rising Star of the Year Award. The award recognises sporting excellence amongst the most junior soldiers and officers in REME who have made an outstanding contribution to their sport over the previous year. Congratulations to 2024’s winner who is LCpl Shema Wright-Quashie – Cricket & Netball
The annual Lifetime Achievement Awards were then presented to three recipients in recognition of a lifetime of dedication, commitment and achievement in their respective sports. The awardees are:
Capt Benn Wathey – Basketball
Maj Gordy Bromidge – Boxing
Maj Mike Lovell – Cross Country
The evening concluded with the prestigious REME Sports Person of the Year Award. The Sports Person of the Year is awarded annually to the REME soldier or officer who is considered to have made the most outstanding contribution to sport during the previous year. Congratulations to 2024’s winner who is Sgt Sam Hall –Martial Arts.
A huge congratulations to this year’s finalists who were all exceptional in their own right:
REME Sports Official of the Year
WO2 Ryan Douthwaite – Boxing
Cpl Jack Hillier – Hockey
Capt Benn Wathey receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from Major General Anna-Lee Reilly CB
LCpl Shema Wright-Quashie receiving The REME Sports Association Rising Star Award 2024 from Major General Darren Crook CBE
Maj Andy Desroches – Football
REME Rising Star of the Year Award
LCpl Alba Platts – Powerlifting
LCpl Anish Tamang – Basketball
LCpl Shema Wright-Quashie –Cricket & Netball
REME Sportsperson of the Year Award
Cpl Terri-Leigh Stuart – Boxing
Cpl Zac Mercer – Nordic Skiing
Sgt Sam Hall – Martial Arts
A special mention and congratulations to the following who were also nominated for this years awards:
Lifetime Achievement Awards
Maj Shane Cook – REME Parachuting
Capt Sharon Stones – Hockey
WO1 (ASM) Dave Thomas – Hockey
WO2 (AQMS) Mike Atkinson –Winter Sports (Alpine)
REME Rising Star of the Year Award
Cfn Tia Ward – Aquatics
Cfn Niamh Brookes – Boxing
Cpl Kate Burrows – Hockey
Cfn Ben White – Winter Sports (Alpine)
Cpl Danni Smith – Winter Sports (Nordic)
Sgt Katie Hardie – Winter Sports (Nordic)
Cfn John Stanley – Motorcycling (Enduro)
REME Sportsperson of the Year Award
Cpl Kate Burrows – Hockey
LCpl Shema Wright-Quashie –Cricket & Netball
The dinner proved to be a fitting tribute to the amazing successes that we, as a Corps, enjoy in every sporting arena across the Army and on the world stage. Our thanks once again go to The REME Charity and our sponsors, not only for their financial support but also for the continued engagement and encouragement to all our teams and individual athletes. A big thank you must also go to all the officers and soldiers who give up their time to organise, plan and deliver sport across the Corps. AeM.
The REME Sports Association Sports Person of the Year Award 2024
Sgt Sam Hall receiving the award from Lt Gen Simon Hamilton CBE
Maj Gordy Bromidge receiving The REME Sports Association Lifetime Achievement Award from Major General Anna-Lee Reilly CB
Lenham Tragedy 80th Commemoration Events
Scribe: Colonel Jason Phillips ADC Images courtesy of Hamilton’s Photography
On Sunday 23rd and Monday 24th of June 2024, members of the Corps, past and present, attended events to commemorate the 52 REME soldiers who were tragically killed 80 years previously in a single event, which would later be known as the Lenham Tragedy. For operational security reasons, the story of our fallen 52 was not widely discussed at the time; indeed, it doesn’t feature in Craftsman of the Army Volume 1. It is beholden on us therefore, the current servicewomen and men of our Corps, to remember our 52 and keep telling their story. That is what we did on this June weekend and that is the purpose of this long article. By reading it, I hope you feel closer to our Lenham 52 and I hope you feel more connected to our past.
The History – Saturday 24 June 1944
An extract from ‘Memories of 1944’ by Capt Cliff Gough, the Workshop Officer and 2IC 6th Guards Tank Brigade Workshop REME at the time:
‘Those of us who were directly involved will never forget the events of that Saturday. The final count was 46 killed outright and about 80 wounded including 40 seriously injured, six of whom died shortly afterwards. For security reasons it was decreed that it should be an active service burial in a mass grave in the cemetery of the nearby village of Lenham. Squads of soldiers from the three Guards Battalions in the Brigade working in relays spent the whole of Saturday digging the mass grave and that night we laid our dead comrades to rest by the light of a hurricane lantern. Each man was wrapped in his blanket, those who could be identified had a label attached with their number rank and name.
I well remember that ASM Humm and I were down in the grave receiving the bodies and making a plan of their position.
Then, as soon as our task was completed, the grave was filled in and an ‘all denomination’ Burial Service was held on the Sunday morning. That night, still in a state of shock, I remembered that there in the middle of the group of graves was the young soldier of the censored letter incident who was of Jewish Faith and it was necessary to arrange for a separate Jewish Burial Service. He lies there to this day with the Star of David on his headstone.’
Sunday 23 June 2024 –The Day of the Commemoration Service (written by Cllr Andy Ratcliffe)
23rd June 2024 – A big day for Lenham and for REME – months in the planning and with many moving parts (in every sense of the word).
Reveille at 06.00am soon found the first of the organising group in the village square, erecting the staging for the dais, all the while looking at the few cars still in the Village Square Car park – fully knowing that there was an imminent delivery of a four axle 36t heavy lift crane due ‘any time now’.
Gradually the square came to life –a quiet, expectant, happy blend of locals getting their Sunday morning paper, others out for a walk with the
dog and, unusually for June, people in uniform, with medals proudly glinting in the summer sun, wearing berets. It was, as the forecasters had said, going to be a bright, hot, summer day.
The cars soon left as the first of the WW2 (IMPS) Jeeps started to roll into sight with the familiar ‘whirr’ of the ribbed tyres on tarmac. Then quietly, the large crane crept into view around the corner of the Square Fish restaurant. Things were coming together. Various of the businesses were opening and a growing trade in coffee and tea was evident.
By 09.00am the military vehicle display was complete – and attracting a fair amount of attention, rightly so. By 09.30am the pavement opposite the Dog & Bear pub was filling and an air of anticipation was keenly felt. Those ‘on show’ for the event got changed and, where they could, proudly bore medals won by previous generations on their right breast pocket. If ever there was an occasion to pin these on, today was it.
We soon got to the point where the months of planning and numerous meetings (too numerous to count) fell away – leaving us at the start of a village event for all who were present to remember. Not a lot was going to stop it now. The last cars were allowed to traverse the square or exit the village and the roads were closed. A brief introduction and then we waited, and we listened.
There is something rather awesome about a large military parade. This is, in my mind, even more so when led by a marching band. While the number in this parade was ‘limited’ to around 150 people, the effect of compressing them into the small space between the Dog & Bear pub and the village square made the group seem to swell.
Having formed up on Old Ashford Road, the parade came into view by the Old Forge and St Mary’s Church –which was flying the Corps Standard for the event. The red tunics and bearskin hats of the Coldstream Guards Band were followed by the lead platoon from 133 Divisional Recovery Company REME. They were followed by a Platoon made up of service personnel from 5 Battalion REME, 9 Battalion REME and 36 Engineer Workshop, representing the remainder of the Corps of REME and the Guards Division followed, with a platoon of REME Association
Veterans, proudly displaying their standards, bringing up the rear of the parade. A local historian commented on the sight of ‘the Kings Guard marching through the historic part of Lenham was such a wonderful sight’.
With the parade halted in front of the staging, the VVIPs were brought to the dais – Sir George Jessel Bt DLL, Lieutenant General David Eastman MBE (Master General REME) and Colonel Jason Phillips ADC (Colonel REME) with the Mayor of Ashford and Deputy Mayor of Maidstone accompanied by the leader of Kent County Council close behind.
The inspection by Sir George and the Master General involved all groups on parade which was much appreciated; especially considering the distance many had travelled and the heat of the day.
If the village of Lenham felt anything other than pride in what was about to unfold, I wonder how much pride, gratification and appreciation was felt by those on parade. We fully realise that this was a hot day, so standing to attention (or event standing easy) in full kit, while being inspected, was no small matter.
Following the parade there were a few words from Cllr Andy Ratcliffe about the association between REME and Lenham stemming from the dark days of WW2 and particularly the Lenham Tragedy – where a V1 Flying Bomb was shot down and crashed on the 6th Guards Tank Brigade Workshop at Newlands in near Charing Heath – with the instant loss of 46 men, 6 others dying shortly afterwards of their injuries, and some 80 injured. That loss, still the biggest loss for REME in a single action, in the world, was to be the focus of the Act of Remembrance in the Lenham Cemetery following the parade.
Before the parade moved off, the Corps were formally presented with the Freedom of the Parish of Lenham by Cllr John Britt. Lenham Parish Council had awarded the Freedom back in 2019 but COVID and other commitments had prevented the ceremonial element of the award until now. With the 80th anniversary of the Lenham Tragedy there could be no better time to make such a presentation.
Logistically, nothing ‘good’ can usually stop the traffic on the A20 –which runs from Maidstone to Ashford on the outskirts of Lenham. It can only be traffic if the M20 is blocked, or roadworks, or an accident. Happily, for this day, this
was not the case. With full support of the relevant authorities and unplanned additional Police presence, first the VVIP’s moved up to the Cemetery, followed soon after by the full parade led by the Coldstream Guards Band and the parishioners who wanted to see that Act of Remembrance. And the rest of the world waited. I would think if they appreciated the magnitude of the events of 24th June 1944 (more than ’just a parade’), they would not have worried.
On arrival, all were greeted by an unusual sight. Normally the manicured lawns and tended beds around the headstones, so beautifully looked after by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, are absent of people. Today, there was a Craftsman from 8 Battalion REME, all soldiers undertaking their initial trade training, behind each headstone, ready to place a wooden cross for each name read aloud in the roll call. This was an incredibly moving moment. The realisation of the scale of the loss being remembered, brought home by a standing uniform dipping to lay a cross when each name was read, before standing upright again.
Dignitaries laid wreaths. Importantly, family relatives laid wreaths too. Due respect was paid and silence was observed by the 800-1,000 servicepeople and locals who attended this service in the cemetery.
While the hubbub of life passed on the A20 – some passersby were seen to look on and one or two stopped to watch the ceremony from the adjacent footpath. While not
THE NAMES OF OUR FALLEN COMRADES WHO LOST THEIR LIVES ON 24 JUNE 1944:
LCpl Anderson J F
Cfn Ballard G
LCpl Bartlett F A J
Cfn Bates G A
Cfn Bell F
Cpl Bennett R T
Cfn Brown H
Dvr Bullen A W J
Cfn Burgess P L
Pte Carley A
Cfn Charlton H J
Cfn Cheevers C
Cfn Clark H
Cpl Copeland G A
Cfn Dowdell D E
Cfn Duggan B
Cfn Eaton W H
Cfn Ellis A E
Pte Fisher E B
Cfn Foster F R
Cfn Gorman A
Cfn Hancock A W
Cfn Handley H D
Dvr Hall T
Cpl Hatt J R
Cpl Hayes G A
Cfn Heath C K
Cfn Hobson L
Cfn Hudson D J
Cfn Jackson L
Cfn Lane P A
Cfn Lazarus L
Cfn Le Piez W T
Cfn Long F
Cfn McGinty S
Cfn McKenzie D H
Cfn Mills E G
Cfn Moden D B
LCpl Morley E M
Cfn Nanson N
Cfn Palmer B
Cfn Pegg J W
Cfn Pocklington F
Dvr Porter S
Pte Quane P
Cfn Salvesen G W
Cfn Samuel T
Cfn Scarborough H
Cfn Stiles J
Cfn Taylor A
Dvr Westwood J
Cfn Wyatt A P S
Courtesy of Elyse Ratcliffe
directly overhead, many heard the sound of a distant Merlin –so particularly fitting on this day.
With the Act of Remembrance complete, the VVIPs moved back to the village square for the march past. With everyone in place, the sound of the band could again be heard as they marched back into Lenham, ‘bearing arms, with drums beating and colours flying’. It was quite a sight and they rightly received continuous applause from the gathered crowd.
Job done. Something to remember for a very, very, long time. An important act of remembrance and an important civic function. Unlike in other countries where service personal are regularly greeted with ‘thank you for your service’ this sort of event does not happen often enough in England in my view. We can, and should, put on a good show and that’s what Lenham wanted to do for REME, and what REME did for Lenham. We should appreciate our Armed Forces more, as they absolutely certainly appreciate being thanked by us. Their gratitude for the recognition on the day was quite humbling.
Events such as this serve many purposes. Clearly there is the presentation of the Freedom. Clearly, and importantly, there was the Act of Remembrance. There was also a realisation. A realisation that just because we know about this, others may not. After the event, as would be expected in the world we live in, the social platforms were buzzing with uploaded photos and images. They also had comments – all of gratitude for the event, the organisation and the parade. It was the one or two who did not appreciate the magnitude of the event, the reason for the association or the Lenham Tragedy who we are particularly pleased to have caught the eye of on the day. This again gives the opportunity of telling the tale of events 80 years ago. For some, remembrance is a time to wear a poppy but it remains a little distant and possibly unconnected. Now, with the local connection and the local story, it becomes that little bit more tangible and more relevant. This being the case, we have succeeded – they will not be forgotten. We Will Remember Them.
Monday 24 June 2024 – A Vigil at Newlands Stud Farm exactly 80 years after this tragic event
(Written by Cllr Andy Ratcliffe)
The following morning, 24th June 2024, found a small group making our way to Newlands in Charing Heath, to mark the tragic event of the Lenham Tragedy at the hour, 80 years to the day. Uniformed officers from the Corps, Association
Crest carving
Members, the Association Standard and family relatives again gathered at Newlands to pay our respects and to lay a wreath. Before the ceremony, we were guided to look at the ‘garden’ wall –which was part of the gated entrance to the camp in 1944. Recent ivy removal enables a clear sight of names of those who had been on guard duty at some point – carved into the wall. How real this all becomes with each new re-discovery. The sounds of the awakening day were limited to bird song and the hum of distant traffic.
An Air Force Veteran played the Last Post and, after a silence, Reveille. Afterwards, it was observed how similar the morning was to the records from 1944 – save only for the hum of the traffic being rather different to the threatening rumble of the V1 on its deadly trajectory. At this point – words fail.
Reflections of some who attended the events
Sally Fry, Granddaughter of Cfn Arthur Hancock, one of the fallen described the events as ‘fantastic and very moving’.
Tim, Standard Bearer from Eastbourne and District Branch attended the parade and said afterwards ‘I was hugely impressed with every aspect. We all know that these things don’t just happen and that they require a great deal of planning and organising. This was an event the Corps can be justifiably proud of’.
Colonel REME ‘it was a great privilege to attend this important Freedom Parade and Commemoration Service. 133 Divisional Recovery Company and the village of Lenham have carried this story for 80 years.
I am so proud that the Corps has captured the importance of this event and will now carry the story forward together with 133 Company and the people of Lenham. We will REMEmber them.’
Courtesy of Elyse Ratcliffe
We need YOUR photographs!
The calendar requires input from your units to ensure we are able to produce a high-quality product.
We need photographs of your unit on operations, in barracks, on exercise, adventurous training or participating in sport – all within the last 12 months.
Send your high-resolution JPEG photographs (minimum 1MB) with accompanying captions to craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 01 OCTOBER 2024
Exercise SOLENT SAILOR
Scribe: 2Lt F McGready
On 8 July the Junior Officers on MSEC(L) took a trip to the Joint Services Adventurous Sail Training Centre (JSASTC) Gosport on an unusually wet July day.
We met our Instructor and went aboard Craftsman II, before going to get some food and find a TV screen to watch the Euros in Portsmouth.
The purpose of the weekend of AT was to bring together the course in addition to highlighting the importance of AT and UAAT to Junior Officers, helping to prepare them for life in their units in Field Army.
The next morning, we arose to the sound of a light, 30 knot breeze and got underway with our introductory brief and some brews. Once the wind had died down a little, we went out in Portsmouth Harbour to try our hand at some sailing. We had a play about around the harbour, with a few individuals finding their sea legs, before venturing out into the Solent and heading for the Isle of Wight.
We hoped to catch the England Semi-Final in Cowes that
evening, with the tide behind us and the waves crashing over the bow. The weather seemed to be in our favour and the sun was shining, however the strong winds and waves eventually defeated our efforts and we had to turn back for Port Solent to be sure to catch kick-off.
On Sunday we awoke to a spot of rain. Some individuals on the yacht forgot to close their hatches so woke up to a few wet spots around. Waterproofs donned, we sailed out into Portsmouth Harbour once more, this time to practice tacking. The sun managed to break through and with the wind still at 20 knots, we managed to get some good sailing in before returning to Gosport where we put Craftsman II back to bed.
Throughout the weekend a great time was had by all. The crew returned with a good tan and even better memories of a good weekend out at sea. As a course we strongly hope to go out again in the future and would strongly recommend offshore Sailing to anyone no matter experience; the REME Sailing team are on hand to assist!
MSEC(L) left to right – 2Lt Duncan, 2Lt West, Lt Harding & 2Lt Griffiths
Special Devices – The Giant Viper
Scribe: Zoe Tolman, Assistant Archivist
Operation sequence
Although we have largely looked at modifications made to AFVs in these articles, today we’re taking a slight diversion to include another fascinating approach to mine clearance – the Giant Viper. While flail tanks clear a path behind them as they go, the Giant Viper is designed to clear a large path in advance and all in one go. It relies on the principle of sympathetic detonation, where the shockwave from one explosion triggers the detonation of other explosives nearby; it’s similar to if you’ve ever seen a video of multiple mouse traps in an area or even dominos, where just one impact can trigger many. Mines typically are laid out in a manner to avoid this, it would be far too easy to clear a
minefield if you could just blow up one on the edge and let the chain reaction do the rest of the work, so the Giant Viper’s explosion is intended to set off many mines itself.
The explosives of the Giant Viper are carried in a hose made of woven terylene and nylon, 228m long, which is launched from a box on a trailer by means of eight 5-inch rockets fitted in a steel-framed basket. Once fired, it travels through the air with an average speed of 70mph. On the tail of the explosive hose are also fitted three parachutes which act as arrester gear, straightening the hose in flight and keeping it from over-launching. Once the hose has landed, the explosives are detonated and a lane approximately 7.3m wide and up to 183m long is cleared through the field – either through the sympathetic detonation or simply by the mines being blown clear of the area.
The effectiveness of the Giant Viper is dependent on multiple factors such as wind, temperature, depth of mine, type of soil, and type of mine. In general ‘at least 90%’ of blast susceptible mines will be cleared, whereas against blast proof mines and those with long impulse fuses, the technique is less effective, but these still tend to be disrupted or cast from the area, and those remaining in the area should be exposed enough to be avoided/disposed during daylight. The user manual for the Giant Viper does however state that ‘complete clearance of any gap cannot be affirmed and several gaps should be attempted’ and then the best cleared gap used.
When launching anything through the sky, wind is obviously a large factor; ideal
Arrester gear in flight
conditions assume light to moderate breezes of up to 20mph. The Giant Viper can be launched in headwinds of up to 25mph but anything beyond that is dangerous as the tail of the explosive may not actually clear the firing vehicle! Tail winds affect the parachutes which can extend the range – although this sounds positive at first, it actually means the hose may not sufficiently cover the beginning of the gap, especially as it can sometimes concertina up at the rear instead of remaining straight. Cross winds similarly affect the rear of the hose the most and, in both cases, winds of over 20mph are inadvisable.
The Giant Viper kit includes a wind gauge but wind is not the easiest thing to measure. It’s rarely steady (coming instead in gusts and lulls), it changes regularly, it tends to be stronger higher up than near the ground, the target area is often exposed and open whereas launch areas usually seek shelter, and of course geographical features such as nearby hills and valleys can direct it in unusual ways. With practice and experience of these different factors however, the operators should be able to give a good estimate of the wind and therefore the required aiming adjustments.
When adjusting, another key factor they need to take into account is the temperature of the launching rockets. When the explosive in the rockets is cold, it burns slower and therefore lasts longer - this leads to a reduced thrust but longer flight time. The opposite is true at the other extreme, the explosive burns quickly with an increased thrust and reduced flight time. The launch therefore should take place when the rockets are between roughly 7 and 27 degrees celsius (45 to 80F) and the user handbook for the Giant Viper gives estimated times for warming and cooling the rockets at different ambient temperatures so that users can prepare them in time to reach this range. The explosive inside does change temperature very slowly in either direction however so they should maintain their temperature for 12 hours, as long as they remain in their insulated containers.
Although being dependent on such changeable factors such as
wind and temperature is a definite drawback of the Giant Viper, it does have its strengths; it is both tactically easy and fast to deploy, which means fields can be cleared while maintaining the element of surprise. It is also possible to use two Giant Vipers in tandem - either to clear a wider or longer gap or a field set with deeper mines. The latter is especially useful as most mine clearance techniques have a finite depth at which they are effective. The concept is in fact so strong that it is still in use today, albeit in the form of the Python, which has improved on the Giant Viper’s design in terms of efficiency and safety.
Information and pictures in this article are taken from E:03.0452.09, E:03.0452.18 and E:03.0673.28
Giant Viper towed by a Chieftain MBT
Table of launch angle adjustments
Potteries and District REME Association, July 2024 Branch Newsletter
Scribe: Maurice Hope
Saturday 6th of July, was memorable not only because it was the first dry morning we seemed to have had for weeks, but it was also the morning of the North Staffs REME Breakfast Club monthly meeting, with an attendance of nine; not bad when it was early in the holiday season
Belatedly comment must be made of the Kosovo 25 event held at the NMA on Sunday the 23rd of June, (too late for inclusion in our newsletter) which our branch vice President Lt Col Gary Feek, who served three tours there, and Wife Jayne attended, there must have been a huge element of the Corps that served there during its duration, and although the event was very well attended with a glut of cap badges on view he does not recall seeing any other REME persons there!
Tuesday the 9th of July saw the branch hold its monthly
lunch event, with a return trip to an old coaching house pub, the Rose and Crown in the Staffordshire Moorlands village of Stanley, renowned locally for its home-made Steak and Ale Pie. An attendance of seventeen is the most we have had for a good number of years.
Special on the day because it was so nice to have with us the Widow Denise and Son Charlie of long time branch member Michael Fryer; they had made the long journey up from Warminster to be with us. It was also the first time that member Ray Whale had given us the pleasure of his company…In spite of its reputation for pies it was somewhat odd that no less than thirteen plumped for good old Fish and Chips.
Sunday 21st saw the annual Corps Regimental Sunday held at The Royal Hospital Chelsea, with branch Standard Bearer Gil Mould and branch President Maurice Hope in attendance. What a fantastic place this is, and a visit has to be on everyone’s bucket list of wishes. Until quite recently the Corps had the most “in” Pensioners with 27 but now we have been outnumbered by “Sappers”. Besides being the home of 300 Veterans, people may be surprised to learn that both Margaret and Dennis Thatcher are both buried there.
The highlight of the month has to be the visit to our eldest branch member Mrs Margaret Paling, who will be one hundred years young on January 9th next year. She had been “off” the
Gary and Jayne at the NMA
Barbara Walker and John Edwards see the funny side
Breakfast Club 6th July
scene for about four years since we last saw her at one of our lunch events, but recent research discovered that in 2022 she had moved into the Belong Care Home in Newcastle-underLyme, and with the help of her Son Alan we had arranged the surprise visit.
RHQ were represented by the Corps Secretary, Geordie Wright-Rivers, and the Association Lead Mrs Misty McCready,
Peter Tighe with John Edwards in the background
Branch secretary Brian Billings and Wife Veronica
Gil Mould on parade with the Branch Standards
Rose and Crown in the Staffordshire Moorlands village of Stanley Ray Whale puts in a rare appearance
Grave of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher
who travelled up and back from Lyneham on the day, loaded down with a multitude of gifts from the REME Shop, including a silk scarf and an engraved sherry glass, which I am sure she will treasure too much to use.
A floral arrangement arrived at 11am which I am informed brought her to tears (so I assume that meant she was pleased), followed by the visit of the branch at 12 noon.
A remarkable lady who was the recipient of the Italy Star, which she would proudly wear on Armed Forces Day and Remembrance Day. Although we still have several male Veterans who were founder members of the Corps we believe that Margaret must be the oldest lady to have served as a founder member. We must thank Alan Paling and his Wife for financing the finger buffet supplied by the care home. Although it was a relatively short visit it is certainly an event that will stay in the memory for a long time.
*Margaret had enlisted in September 1942, with her first posting being at the REME Command Workshop at Middleton-on-the-Wold, in the East Riding of Yorkshire.
In 1944 she was serving with Headquarters REME at Isley, near the Castle Donnington race circuit in Leicestershire. In January 1945 she was posted overseas to the Central Mediterranean Force in Caserta Italy until July 1946.
Recruiting and keeping members is no different in the Association than it is in the Regular Army, so we as a branch are now circulating our latest recruiting poster to wherever we can get the message to, in the hope that we can increase our membership base.
Left to right – Geordie Wright-Rivers (Corps Secretary), Margaret Palin and Misty McCready (REME Association Development Officer)
A Branch visit from members of RHQ REME
2Lt Jacob West
2Lt Jonathan Harding
2Lt Matthew Duncan
2Lt Fraser McGready
2Lt Robert Griffiths
Colonel REME Col IJ Phillips ADC Maj Gen EJ Faithfull-Davies CBE
Capt Tom Allatt Capt Stuart Job Capt Jay Donohue
Capt Martin Linsay Capt Stuart Owen Capt James Rees
Capt Darren Roderick
Capt Emmie Derbyshire
Capt Rory McClusky
Capt Michael Fitzpatrick
Capt Gareth Bezant
Capt Peter Meager
Colonel REME Col IJ Phillips ADC Maj Gen EJ Faithfull-Davies CBE
Land Warfare Centre English Channel Relay Swim Teams
Scribe: Major Owen Larsen
During my 2-year tenure at Land Warfare Centre I’ve been luckily enough to organise, train and support 2 x 6 person English Channel swim relay teams; one making a successful crossing in Oct 23 and the other in Jun 24.
Preparing for a Channel swim relay attempt involves at least 6 months of training to steadily build up your cold-water endurance. The training peaks when each swimmer completes the mandatory 2-hour qualification sea swim, which has to be done in open water below 16°C.
This is all without the aid of a wetsuit and with the English Channel summer sea temperature usually between 14 – 16°C this showcases the challenging nature of this endeavour.
On the swim attempt itself a relay team has each swimmer in the water for a 1-hour stint before swapping over on the move, with the entire attempt expected to last between 14 – 16 hours; but it can be longer if the winds and tides are less favourable. Also, with most attempts starting about midnight, all relay swimmers can expect to have to do at least 2 swim rotations with one of these being in the dark, across the busiest shipping lane in the world, while trying to avoid little jelly fish stingy kisses!
The 2023 Swim Team was comprised of the following swimmers:
Lt Col Jon Penhale RIFLES
Lt Col Muir Sterling ETS
Lt Col Alex Burt ETS
WO1 Rob Tomlinson RA
WO1 Chris Turrill RL
WO2 Liam McEvoy RA
The 2023 swim team were one of the last teams across the channel for the season completing their swim in 14 hours 32 minutes on 8th October 2023, with surprisingly good weather and light tides for October.
In contrary the 2024 team were scheduled to be one of the first teams across of the season which meant their training times were far more compressed. So, in March 2024 through a baptism by
Watching the Summer Solstice sunrise
The 2024 LWC and RG swim teams
Six more successful Channel swimmers
fire, the team started their first training sea swim in 9°C water and rapidly progressed to their 2-hour qualifier in 12°C water by the start of May.
The 2024 Swim Team was comprised of the following swimmers:
Maj Rob Hanking-Evans CG
Maj Theo Bossom RIFLES
Maj Nick Hammond RLC
Maj Stephen Hughes RLC
WO2 Tom Wilkes RLC
Maj Matt Jervis ETS
We also managed to sync our 2024 attempt with our training partner team which was another military 6-person relay swim team from Recruiting Group. This saw both team’s starting swimmers shake hands on Shakespeare Hoe before diving into the water at 2300hrs on 20th June. During the attempt we saw the Summer Solstice sunrise come up, a boat load of migrants ironically telling us we were going the wrong way and had a temporary halt as a transiting humongous oil rig took right of way in the channel.
Major Theo Bossom finishing
2024 Swim chart
Until next time France!
Waiting for the Oil Rig to transit
The team smashed the crossing finishing in 13 hours 14 mins, but alas we were sadly beaten by Recruiting Group who managed to do a formidable sub 13-hour swim.
Both the 2023 and 2024 relay teams raised money for ABF and you can contribute to the £10k already raised by donating at the following link: English Channel Relay Swim in aid of ABF the soldiers charity Or by scanning the following QR Code: With myself heading to Navy Command this summer, I’ll be looking to form another team so Col Danny and the team down in Portsmouth you’d better dig out your best budgie smugglers! Also, if you’re interested in organising a relay or solo English Channel swim for yourself or your Unit then feel free to get in touch with me.
LWC Swim Team ready to go!
Encountering a migrant boat
2024 Swim, leaving Dover for the Start Point; no going back now!
DSEME Nijmegen 4 Day Marches 2024
Scribe: SSgt Lawrence Jones
On Sunday 14 July 2024, 10 members from The Defence School of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering (DSEME) deployed to the Netherlands to take part in the 106th Nijmegen International Four Day Marches. It is the largest event of its kind in the world, attracting 47,000 civilian participants from 73 nations with 6,000 military personnel from over 30 nations. All those participating will be required to march approximately 40 km on each of the 4 consecutive days carrying 10kg in weight, not including water, food and other consumables. Three members of Permanent Staff from the REME Arms School (RAS) and seven from 8 Trg Bn REME made up the team led by SSgt Jones from the RAS.
The team deployed at 0500hrs from MOD Lyneham and arrived at Camp Heumensoord at approximately 1600hrs local time. This gave the team some time to get some admin done and further bolster some ‘team cohesion’ Sunday evening, before receiving mandatory briefs Monday morning. Camp Heumensoord is solely built for this event every year then collapsed on completion. Considering this, the facilities are superb with all essentials such as accommodation, showers, toilets, cookhouse and medical on hand.
Day one of four started on Tuesday where the team had to complete a 27 mile march. DSEME stepped off from Camp Heumensoord at 0430hrs in high spirits and with fresh legs. This showed during the march as the pace was very quick compared to the following days and morale was very high. The conditions were perfect, with highs of 21 degrees with a mixture of cloudy and sunny spells. Towards the end of the day there were some heavy showers which
SSgt Devlin and Sgt Wells at the front
Sgt O’Doherty and SSgt Jones with the team behind
dampened morale slightly, but the full team completed day 1. Over the course of days 2 and 3 the weather started to get increasingly hotter. The team were now suffering with their own individual problems, such as hot spots, blisters, chafing, rashes, and the heat itself. Day 3 was probably the toughest day of the 4. The route was hilly compared to the other 3 and it was also very rural. The local crowds and small villages that you march through are what get you through the 4 days, but this was limited with enormous fields and long straight roads. Morale was probably at its lowest across the team and the struggle was real. More rest stops were required due to the heat and niggles individuals were carrying, which meant a longer time on our feet and a later finish time that day. However, the team again showed their resilience and discipline to finish the day by the 1700hrs cut off time.
The team couldn’t be happier to see the start of day 4. Due to the heat forecast for the day we started at an earlier time of 0400hrs. Temperatures were forecast to reach 32 degrees but with the humidity and crowds probably a lot hotter. Morale was high and the finish line was in sight, 25 more miles to be awarded the prestigious Nijmegen medal. At this point, many
individuals in the team were fighting their own battles continuously, testing their mental resilience to get them through the day. At around midday the temperatures really started to soar and this is when the team needed the crowds the most, and they certainly delivered. The crowds were incredible, providing cold showers on the streets, huge
The Team
SSgt Jones standing at 6 foot 2 with a Dutch soldier
The team taking a hard earned 5 minute rest!
buckets of water to dip our jungle hats in, and an endless number of snacks and cold drinks. Without them, I am certain not everyone in the team would have finished the event. The final straight towards the finish line seemed like it was going on for hundreds of miles. Every time someone in the team would ask for a distance update, it seemed to be the same answer over and over. Finally, a sign appeared with 350 metres left.
The feeling seeing that sign was amazing, and you could see the joy on the teams faces enjoying the final moments with the crowds as we advanced towards the finish. All of the team made it to the finish line, ready to receive their hard earned medals and conduct a final parade.
On completion, the team would then march a further 3 mile towards the town of Nijmegen to complete a victory parade. The crowds and scenes were outstanding, showing their support and appreciation to everyone on what they have achieved over the 4 days. It really was breathtaking to see such an amazing turnout to support those who took part in the marches. On arriving back to Camp Heumensoord the team could enjoy a few social drinks if they chose to or use the time to square their admin away and recover. A few members from the team decided to go into Nijmegen as the Vengaboys were in town! The appreciation and support continued in town and was overwhelming to say the least.
I think the event was underestimated by the majority, if not everybody in the team. Not just the physical, but the mental aspect and conditions that the team had to do it in. The team worked extremely well together, supporting and helping each other throughout. There were only a couple of snap reps, which were mainly on the final day due to fatigue and sore feet.
All in all, it was an incredible event to be part of. I would urge anybody who hasn’t done it before to give it a go and you’ll be surprised how well put together and organised it is. The camaraderie and esprit de corps shared amongst the team was superb with many more friends being made.
If you were to ask the team if they’d do this again next year right now, they would probably be 50/50. If you ask them in a few month’s time once the sore feet and niggles have healed, I can guarantee you the majority would most definitely say yes!
Lt Pearmund squaring some foot admin away
DSEME team - All completed the event!
Royal Russell School Combined Cadet Force Annual Summer Camp 2024
Scribe: Major Owen Larsen
In the first week of July 24, the REME Capbadged Royal Russell School (RRS) Combined Cadet Force (CCF) begun their annual summer camp in Aldershot. During the week of ranges, adventure training and fieldcraft exercises they had the Corps Engagement Team (CET) visit them, a Unit visiting 3 RANGER LAD and a field stand put on by 9 REME.
As an ex RRS CCF Cadet myself, I usually try and organise a
number of Unit visits for their annual summer camp to try and add in a few additional REME touchpoints to their camp programme and increase their overall understanding of the breadth of the Corps.
All touchpoints with the Regular REME were professionally delivered, extremely engaging and full of content. The members of the 3 Ranger LAD, CET and 9 Bn REME all judged
Corps Engagement Team Visit
9 Bn REME Field Stand
Ash Ranges Cadet GP Firing
the audience perfectly and managed to incorporate into the stands personal accounts of real-world examples of how and when they have used their expert technical skills and engineering prowess to provide game changing effect for the soldiers on the ground; which really brought the stands to life.
It was obvious by the amount of questions from the Cadets, and the fact that we had to pry the Cadets away at the end of these serials, that it had a profound impact on them. Many of the 45 Cadets who up until now, did not have a full understanding of the breadth and opportunities that are offered by careers in the REME.
The visits went a long way to investing into our future and I would like to pass on a huge thank you to Cfn Paige Smith from the CET, Lt Janay Laburnum 9 REME and AQMS Owen Jones + Cpl Josh Cumbley from 3 Ranger LAD to name just a few who made this such a rewarding experience for the Cadets.
3 RANGER GPMG stand
Obituary
James Barry Greenwood (Known as Barry)
National Service served with REME between 1950-1952 Transferred to REME LAD 2/20 Signal Regiment (V)TA Wanstead (Cpl) between 1953-1963
Royal Signals – Regimental Quarter Master between 1963-1987 (Major)
Decorations – TAVR Long Service.
Barry was an active member of both the REME Association and the Royal Signals Association.
Barry was the driving force in setting up and formation of the North and East London Branch of the REME Association. He served as Chairman from its concept in April 1999 to his last meeting being in June 2024. He was always keen to promote the REME, he attended the inauguration of the REME Memorial at the NMA where he met with HRH Prince Philip. He was very proud of that moment in his service. Barry’s last local duty was the lighting of the D Day beacon in Wickford Essex, wearing his old battle dress. He will be missed by many.
Death Notices
CHATTIN – Former Capt. Duncan Chattin passed away on the 27th June aged 82. He served with the Corps from 1958 until 1987. Duncan joined the Army as an Apprentice Armourer at Arborfield intake 58B, transferring to Carlisle AAS in January 1960. He was commissioned in 1979. He resigned his commission in 1987 and took a contract with the Sultan of Oman Armed forces for five years. He then emigrated to South Australia to be near his Mother and Brother. Duncan was a founder member of the South Australian Branch REME Association and was Secretary for several years. Duncan Returned from a trip to the UK to see his Son and Daughter. On his return he was not well and was admitted to Hospital where he sadly passed away on Thursday 27th June.
DREW – Brigadier James (Jim) Drew passed away on the 10th June 24. Served with the Corps between 1961-1996.
ROSE – Former Cpl Rodney Rose passed away 10th July 2024, aged 94. National Service 1951, Instructor for part of this time. Army
Emergency Reserve (REME) until 1957. Prominent member REME Association in Bristol for many years.
SANDALLS – Former WO1 Ted Sandalls passed away on Sunday 21st July 2024, aged 63. He served with the Corps for 26 years between 1979-2004
SMITH – Former Craftsman Bryan Smith passed away on the 8th June 2024, aged 87. He served his National Service between 19581960. He will be sadly missed by his loving Wife of 60 years Sheila and three children, his Grandchildren and his Great Grandchildren.
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 Mrs Bev Hardwidge, Corps Welfare Manager on ( 07936 902415 or welfare@remecharity.org
London Gazette
03 July 2024
No entries
10 July 2024
REGULAR ARMY
Intermediate Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
Warrant Officer Class 1 Emmie Lianne DERBYSHIRE W1053837 to be Captain 6 May 2024
Warrant Officer Class 1 James Anthony DONOHUE 25167690 to be Captain 6 May 2024
Warrant Officer Class 1 Darren RODERICK 25040587 to be Captain 6 May 2024
Warrant Officer Class 1 Daniel Edward WATKINSON 25162215 to be Captain 6 May 2024
Warrant Officer Class 2 Thomas Stephen George ALLATT 25110721 to be Captain 6 May 2024
Warrant Officer Class 2 Rory James MCLUSKEY 25104609 to be Captain 6 May 2024
Warrant Officer Class 2 Stuart Robert OWEN 25168552 to be Captain 6 May 2024
17 July 2024
REGULAR ARMY
Short Service Commissions
Captain J. T. ROYLE 30244703 retires 20 January 2024 (Belated Entry)
24 July 2024
REGULAR ARMY
Intermediate Regular Commissions (Late Entry)
Warrant Officer Class 1 Martin Trevor BEELEY 24922940 to be Captain 4 May 2020 (Belated Entry)
Warrant Officer Class 1 Martin David LINDSAY 25113298 to be Captain 15 April 2024
Warrant Officer Class 1 Michael James FITZPATRICK 25122600 to be Captain 6 May 2024
Warrant Officer Class 2 James Ronald Peter Charles REES 25157810 to be Captain 6 May 2024
Monthly Assignment September 2024
Name Unit Assigned to Date of Assignment
Lieutenant Colonel
BAGSHAW MS AADP 2024
02-Sep-24
BRAYSHAY DD DES/COMJE/HELS/HELS2/P2G/ABW –ES DGLAND OF4 P2G GAZ DCE 26-Sep-24
HAZEL CM HQ FIELD ARMY DCOS EQPT – SO1 ES 09-Sep-24
NEL SD Def Ac – ACSC 28 03-Sep-24
RIX J HQ FIELD ARMY ACOS OPERATE – SO1 Crisis OT 01-Sep-24
THOMPSON SC Def Ac – ACSC 28 03-Sep-24
WATSON CJ Def Ac – ACSC 28 03-Sep-24
YOUNG PW AADP 2024 02-Sep-24
Major
BIRKETT PJ Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
BLOXHAM LJ Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
HERBERT DJ Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
LEWIS MD Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
MORGAN LD LWC SUPPORT – SO2 G4 LOG 07-Sep-24
MORRIS AH HQ 7 INF BDE AND HQ EAST – SO2 ES 02-Sep-24
SELKA AWH Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
SIMPKINS JDA Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
SPENCER JC Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
THOMAS JS Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
TIBBETTS CP Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
WEBBER CS Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
WHITEHOUSE JM DSEME LYNEHAM RAS – SO2 OFFR TRG SENIOR 16-Sep-24
WILLIAMSON J Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
WRIGHT H Def Ac – ICSC(L) 21A 02-Sep-24
Captain
BOXALL RJ 6 ARMD BN REME – PLANS OFFR 20-Sep-24
DEVINE JH 2 CS BN REME – OPS ENG 02-Sep-24
DUNCAN SJ 3 ARMD CS BN REME 18 COY – QM 02-Sep-24
GAZI WT 5 FS BN REME – UWO 02-Sep-24
KING DJ 15 SIG REGT LAD REME – OC 16-Sep-24
LAUCHLAN PW HQ 3 UK DIV – SO3 G35 ES 02-Sep-24
McGETTIGAN GP D Futures FFD Research and Experimentation – SO3 Experiments 06-Sep-24
PATTERSON CF OP INTERLINK – SO3 Maintenance 04-Sep-24
REED J 6 ARMD CS BN REME – UWO 02-Sep-24
ROBERTS F 3 ARMD CS BN REME 18 COY – QM TECH 02-Sep-24
ROSE SA 7 AVN SP BN REME HQ COY – QMT 02-Sep-24
SUTTON NL HQ 4 INFANTRY BDE AND HQ NE – SO3 G1 01-Sep-24
WELTON MS 3 ARMD CS BN REME – UWO 02-Sep-24
WILSON RG ROYAL BRUNEI ARMED FORCES – 2IC LTTS 02-Sep-24
Lieutenant
BELL LAN UNIVERSITY OF NORTHUMBRIA – ISDO 01-Sep-24
BOTTOMER A UNIVERSITY OF PORTSMOUTH – ISDO 01-Sep-24
BREWER-ALLAN HG UNIVERSITY OF CARDIFF – ISDO 01-Sep-24
Arecent article in July’s edition, “REME Trades in the Archives: Vehicle Mechanic Part III, “C” Vehicles” included a photo that had an incorrect caption: “Group Photo Engineer C Vehicle Workshop”.
We thank Dan Godfrey for drawing our attention to the error and readers can contact the Author for further information.
Editorial
An apology
Scribe: The Editor
In August’s edition of The Craftsman, an article was sent in titled “REME and Malta – The Corps History”, the name of Scribe was omitted from this article, therefore, I would like to apologise and thank Nikolai Debono - Battlefront Malta for taking time to produce this very interesting read.
Letter to The Editor
RE/REME
Responsibilities
Scribe: Philip Corp
The RAF officer in the photograph ‘First RE/REME Joint Training course’ (July Craftsman, page 36) reminded me that in June 1966 the RE took over the RAF Airfield Construction Branch at Waterbeach. That summer I spent a few months attached to its REME Workshop, between graduating down the road at Cambridge and commencing RYO equipment training at Bordon. The OC, and only established REME officer, Captain Mike Burton, told me that when he arrived to take over, the RAF Workshop was commanded by a Wing Commander supported by two Squadron Leaders and two Flight Lieutenants; the Wing Commander had met him on arrival but never spoke to him again during the handover (Could it be the same Wing Commander in the photo?).
It was an enjoyable few months, including shooting Hares for the pot at night on the airfield in the headlights of an open-topped car and an introduction to the then “we bend ‘em, you mend ‘em” work ethic of the Sappers.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Are you ex-serving REME? Did you have a partner or family who were in REME? Where are they Now? is a new feature giving you the chance to share your stories with the wider REME family. If you have a story to share, email it to craftsmaneditor@reme-rhq.org.uk
REME Servicewomens’ Conference and Dinner Night
On behalf of everyone at The REME Servicewomens’ Network, a warm invitation is extended to all REME Servicewomen to attend the first REME Servicewomens’ 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.
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
Corps Calendar 2024/25
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.
Air your views and submit your news.
THE
The Editor welcomes all stories – from REME Sport or raising money for the REME Charity to Exercises and Operations or personal stories from serving personnel and veterans. Please see the contents page for details on how to submit your story.
