The Royal Green Jackets Regimental Association
E-zine NEWSLETTER Volume 4 Issue 2
15 September 2012
Welcome to the 11th edition of the RGJRA Ezine Newsletter published on 15th September 2012. To ensure that you get your copy always make sure you keep your email address up to date and empty your mailbox frequently. Current distribution for this issue is to 3195 of 6075 database users.
Contents Page 1. 2. 3. 4. 9. 10.
11. 12. 15. 16. 17.
18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 24. 26. 27. 28.
30. 32. 34. 35.
36. 37. 38. 39. 41.
Title Foreword Forecast of Events Special No ce to Life Members RGJRA Contact List The RGJRA Branches Winchester Veterans Day RGJ Officers at St Paul’s Cathedral for HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Commemora on of the Ba le of El Alamein RGJ (Rifles) Museum Colonel Commandant’s Message on Army 2020 Statement 4th Bn The Rifles - BATUS ‘Bullet magnet’ Soldiers train for opera ons a er Afghanistan Bri sh soldiers visit Salamanca The Ba le of Salamanca on July 22, 1812 Duke of Wellington Riflesdirect Members of the Regiment in the Olympics Care for CasualƟes Musical Fundraising Jazz Evening Sponsored Cycle Ride by Andy Norris Napoleon and The Rifles MOD calls for ideas on IED detec on The Band and Bugles of The Rifles at the Royal Albert Hall The RGJ Band and Bugles Live on in Germany The closure of Trenchard Bks, Celle GPMG Jungle Carrying Trials, November 1963 Recrui ng Canine Hero’s for The Army Rifles at Southport Armed Forces Day Those were the days June 1965 Soldiers on Salisbury Plain The McMullan Collec on A Rendezvous With The Enemy Child Educa on Nepal (CEN UK) PDSA Dickin Medal, ‘Tich’, KRRC In Memoriam
FOREWORD I once again welcome all our readers to this the 11th edition of the RGJ Regimental Association E-Zine scheduled to be published on or after 15th September 2012. I have to say that my visit to the RGJ Veteran Day on 14th July was well worth the effort despite the rather soggy weather conditions on the day. The weather was not actually that bad and managed to stay dry for the important bits. Regardless of the weather I really cannot recommend this annual event enough to those of you who have not attended before. One very welcome improvement was the marked increase in the number of officers who attended this year. Currently there is a lot going on behind the scenes in regard to the Association with Bill Shipton working on the new web site and the remainder of the web site team, now comprised of myself, Kevin Stevens, Seamus Lyons, Mark Adams, Del Healey and Arne Bergsand being kept well occupied with our various responsibilities in regard to publications and web sites. It has long been a matter of some concern to me that none of us on the Web Site Team appear to be getting any younger and all of us, with the possible exception of Kevin
Stevens, have a varied assortment of worsening health problems. Within a few years the number 70 will be appearing on some of our birthday cards and without wishing to appear morbid it would be of benefit to the Association if we could find replacements who could step in should any of us become so unwell that we can no longer function in our present Association role. Is there anyone out there who will give up some of their free time for the benefit of the Association? If you have some basic computer knowledge combined with a willingness to learn the necessary publishing and/or IT skills please get in touch with me. Ideally you should be on the right side of sixty or less and as long as you are a UK resident where you live is not too important. What is important is that you will give your time freely for the benefit of the Association and you have a willingness to understudy for one of the following Team jobs; Database Manager, Webmaster, Desktop Publishing or Guestbook and Bulletin Board Monitoring. These are all equally important jobs within the Association Publishing (To be con nued on next page)
E-Zine Newsle er is published by the Royal Green Jackets Regimental Associa on on 15 June, 15 September and 15 December each year. Please send ar cles for inclusion to the editor prior to the 1st of the publica on month. Editor: Ken Ambrose Deputy editor: Major Ron Cassidy MBE Design and produc on: Arne Bergsand Copyright 2012 © Royal Green Jackets Regimental Associa on.
RGJRA E-Zine 15 Sep 2012 Page 2
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and Web Site Team without which we would not be able run the IT side of the Association efficiently so please give it some thought and if you can manage it give the Association some of your time. A recent change to the services provided by the Internet branch means that you can no
longer rely upon the Web Site Team to forward messages to other Internet Branch members you want to contact. From now on all Internet branch members will be recorded on the database and if you want to make contact with old friends you will need to become a full paying member of the Association and use the database to search for and make
contact with any of the 6000+ recorded users on the database. The only exception to this is if you are an Overseas member (living outside the EU) which entitles you to free use of the database facilities. Until the next time Ken C Ambrose Editor
CALENDAR Forecast Of Events 15 September - 15 December 2012 Date
Event
Sept 20 28 28 30
4th & 5th Bns Wilts Lunch Kenya Veterans Reunion The Burma Cup Golf Meeting Rifles/LI Lunch
Salisbury Exeter Erlstoke Sands Bishops Palace, Wells
Salisbury 01722 414 536 Exeter 01392 492 435 Exeter 01392 492 435 Taunton 01823 333 434
Oct 2 4 5 6 6 6 8 17 17 18 18 19 20 25
D & D Wives Club Lunch Rifles Cricket Club Dinner D and D Officers Club Shropshire Autumn Dinner Rifles/LI/KOYLI Minster Band (Glosters) Reunion Rifles Regimental Golf Day LI Club Dinner The Rifle Brigade Club Dinner Rifles Musical Extravaganza The Rifle Brigade AGM 1st & 4th D & D Lunch DERR Association Reunion Celer et Audax Club Dinner
Exeter 52-56 Davies Street, London Dorchester Shrewsbury York Barnwood, Gloucester Cavalry & Guards Club Cavalry & Guards Club Royal Albert Hall Davies St, London Exeter Malta Cavalry & Guards Club
Exeter 01392 492 435 London 0207 491 4936 Exeter 01392 492 435 Shrewsbury 01742 262 425 Pontefract 01977 703 181 Gloucester 01452 311 116 Salisbury 01722 414 536 Rifles RHQ 01962 828 524 Maj K Gray 01962 828 549 Tickets 0845 401 5034 Maj K Gray 01962 828 549 Exeter 01392 492 435 Salisbury 01722 414 536 KRRC Sec 0207 491 4935
Nov 2 3 4 8 10 10 11 11 11 17 24
Inkerman Dinner The Sgt`s (DERR) Dinner VC Stone Ceremony RBL Field of Remembrance RGJ Oxford Reunion 4 KOYLI Dinner Remembrance Sunday KRRC Remembrance Sunday RB Remembrance Sunday RGJ D & D Officers Club Dinner The RB Assn. London Dinner
Durham Hermitage Durham Westminster Abbey, London Abingdon Pontefract London Cenotaph Grosvenor Gardens London Cenotaph 52-56 Davies Street, London The Union Jack Club, London
Durham 01913 865 496 Salisbury 01722 414 536 Durham 01913 865 496 London 0207 491 4936 Oxford 01235 548018 Pontefract 01977 703 181 KRRC Sec 0207 491 4935 Maj K Gray 01962 828 549 London Sec 01708 442 662 Exeter 01392 492 435 Mr. G Pain 01962 856 249
Dec 4 6
F & G Coy Rifles/RGJ Carols Rifles & RGJ Officers Cocktail Party
St George`s, Hanover Sq, London 52-56 Davies Street, London
London 0207 491 4935 London 0207 491 4936
Contact
RGJRA E-Zine 15 Sep 2012 Page 3
Life Members – Special Notice The Membership Secretary, Mike Marr, has noticed that there may be several paid up Life Members within the Association who have membership cards dating from 2003 issued by John Beerman but who may not be registered as such on the Association database. Would anyone who is in possession of such a card, but who does not receive the Swift & Bold magazine and is therefore probably not listed correctly on the database, please urgently contact Mike to clarify their membership status. If an upgrade is required Mike will need a scanned copy of your Life Membership card either by email to oxford@the-rifles.co.uk with a brief note stating current full postal and telephone contact numbers or through normal post to: Membership Secretary, RGJ Regimental Association, Edward Brooks Barracks, Cholswell Road, Shippon, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX13 6HW. For further information or clarification you can speak direct to Mike on the telephone between 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday on 01235 548018.
Royal Green Jackets Regimental Association Contact list as at 1 September 2012 President Chairman Secretary Treasurer RGJRA Webmaster Database Manager
Maj Gen J Balfour CBE DL Brig HCG Willing CBE Lt Col J-D von Merveldt Mr Mike Marr Mr Kevin Stevens Mr Ken Ambrose
admin@rgjassociation.info hugh.willing@gmail.com london@the-rifles.co.uk oxford@the-rifles.co.uk webmaster@rgjassociation.info membersdatabase@royalgreenjackets.co.uk
Branches Australasian Branch Aylesbury Branch Band and Bugles London Branch East Midlands Branch Midlands Central Branch Milton Keynes Branch North East Branch N. Ireland Branch North West Branch Shropshire Branch Suffolk Branch Telford Branch Winchester Branch Wiltshire Branch Yorkshire Branch
Mr Chris McDonald Mr Alan Grant Mr Dave Timms Mr Gary Driscoll Mr Martin Coates Mr Peter Page Mr G Brewer Mr John (Jake) Cheetham Mr Len Cook Mr Ray Gerrard Mr Tom Fairclough Mr Gordon Pilcher Mr John Brown Mr John Harper Mr Gary Byrne Mr Stuart Anderson
cvmcdonald@bigpond.com alanrgrant@aol.com secretary@rgjband.com rgjldn@ntlworld.com martinswiftandbold@yahoo.co.uk petepage71@hotmail.com g_brewer@btinternet.com rgj.north.east@btinternet.com lenny.cook@btinternet.com ray.gerrard@talktalk.net tomfairclough@fsmail.net gordon.pilcher@ntlworld.com rgjtelford@talktalk.net johnh2395@fsmail.net glm1114@btinternet.com paulcors@hotmail.co.uk
Editor Notes Tel: 01296 711967 email: ken.ambrose1@btinternet.com
•
We aim to draw the attention of all former members of the regiment to forthcoming events on a quarterly basis covering not only the main Association annual forecast but also news at officer club and branch level.
•
To make this E-Zine a success all branches and individuals are asked to contribute whenever possible.
RGJRA E-Zine 15 Sep 2012 Page 4
THE ROYAL GREEN JACKETS ASSOCIATION LONDON BRANCH
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY PARADE 11th November 2012
Calling all Green Jackets WE NEED YOU! To join us at the Remembrance Service at Whitehall, followed by the famous Cenotaph March Past. This year the Association aims to increase its support with more members taking part.
Please come and join us, as we remember all fellow Riflemen who lost their lives whilst serving in the regiment. For details on obtaining a security pass by email, please contact Gary Driscoll rgjldn@ntlworld.com.
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Royal Green Jackets North East Branch August 2012 Hello brother Riflemen, it’s that time of the year again when we have been asked to put pen to paper (well not literally) and let you know what we have been doing up here in the North East of the country.
Chaise Guest House Tel. no: 0191 565 9218 5 Roker Terrace, Roker, Sunderland, SR6 9NB
Well the annual pilgrimage to Winchester took place in July and considering the weather conditions it was well attended, even if the campers amongst us were in a very muddy field, but with true RGJ spirit this did not stop riflemen and their friends, families having Bar-bq’s in the midst of a downpour.
Abbey and Areldee Guest house 17-18 Roker Terrace, Roker, Sunderland Tel. no: 0191 514 1971.
The Webmaster of the Association Photo web site has requested that anyone with photographs going spare should send them to him for inclusion on the new updated and re-designed photo site at www. rgjphotos.org.uk. Please contact Seamus Lyons at seamus.lyons@rgjassociation.info if you can help. In the North East we are already planning our annual remembrance weekend disco buffet and to let you know that there is a change to our usual venue for this year. The new venue will be The Roker Hotel in Sunderland. There are some rooms left at the venue hotel but they are going fast!!! The RGJRA North East Branch reunion night will take place on Saturday 10 November 2012 at The BEST WESTERN Roker Hotel, Roker, Terrace Sunderland. SR6 9ND. There will be live entertainment, disco, buffet and raffle and tickets are available from the 4 September 2012 Cheques in the amount of £7.50 per person should be made payable to RGJRA North East Branch, with an SAE included, sent to: RGJRA North East Branch 7 Rotherfield Rd Red House SUNDERLAND Tyne & Wear SR5 5DL or order and collect from Jake/Liz at above address, telephone number 0191 548 0189. Some accommodation options are shown below. Hotels right next to the venue: BEST WESTERN Roker Hotel (Quote Royal Green Jackets for £75 a night) Tel. no: 0845 373 1009 or 0845 776 7676. Roker Terrace, Sunderland Tyne and Wear, SR6 9ND Still Rooms Available. Mention Green Jacket reunion for a discount.
Balmoral and Terrace Guest House 2-3 Roker Terrace SR6 9NB Tel. no: 0191 565 9217
Hotels within two miles from the venue: Sunderland Marriott Hotel Tel. no: 0191 529 2041 Queens Parade, Sunderland, SR6 8DB Belmont Guest House Tel. no: 0191 567 2438 8 St Georges Terrace, Roker, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR6 9LX Lemonfield Hotel Tel. no: 0191 529 3018 Sea Lane, Seaburn, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR6 8EE Roker View Guest House Tel. no: 0191 565 7354 2 Benedict Road, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR6 0NX April Guest House Tel. no: 0191 565 9550 12 St George’s Terrace, Roker, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR6 9LX Brendon Park Guest House Tel. no: 0191 548 9303 49 Roker Park Road, Roker, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR6 9PL Mayfield Hotel Tel. no: 0191 529 3345 Sea Lane, Seaburn, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR6 8EE
The North East branch held its last meeting on Friday the 31st August at the Royal British Legion in Stockton Terrace Sunderland, where the final details for the above mentioned event were be discussed. The Sunderland Remembrance Parade is the largest outside of London and we would be proud to see as many Riflemen and their wives, families and friends attend and show our never ending respect for this sombre occasion. Malcolm Donnison Northeast Branch, RGJ Regimental Association
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The RGJ East Midlands Branch September 2012 A big hello to all from the East Midlands Branch membership. January to May was a very quiet time for us with our monthly meeting's, fundraising, and recruiting new members. Now I would like to take you back to 1994, when the East Midland's Branch crossed swords with the local authorities in regard to putting the name of James Meredith who was killed in action in N.I. in 1972, on the local Memorial, in Kirkby in Ashfield. The R.G.J. won that fight and his name was finally and deservedly carved onto the Memorial, to commemorate this poppies' and wreaths were duly laid at the Memorial and at his graveside by members of the Royal British Legion and the Royal Green Jacket's Association. Now some 30years later some members of our branch have been privileged to meet James's Meredith`s mother at the local cemetery where we scattered poppy petals in his honour and at the same time we also scattered poppy petals on the grave of Adrian Sheldon, another local RGJ and RIFLES, lad who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2009. Some of our member's made the pilgrimage to Winchester for the Veterans Day parade and sounding retreat. The weather held and a good time was had by all. Back home our branch was asked to be guard of honour to the Royal Navy`s LST and Landing Craft Association, who held a service for the laying up of their standard at St Andrews church Skegby. The service went well and all retired to the watering hole where rum and beer was drunk and story’s told. Once again we joined the Royal
British Legion at their party in the park. This was a fun day for all raising funds for our branch and donating to the local RBL. We held our annual BBQ in August and as a steady flow of members poured in, yes you guessed it, Martin once again battled with banger's and burger's and single handedly fed the hungry hordes. Well done Martin and we finished the day with an evening buffet, disco/karaoke with some well-oiled voices not likely to make the X factor. A big
thank you to all the wives for their support and efforts running the tombola/raffles. With September fast approaching some of our members are off to Blackpool for a week-end. We are also hoping to attend the Bikers Ride to the Wall at the National Memorial Arboretum in October and after the Remembrance Service in November. We will close our year with Christmas dinner at a local restaurant. len dooley
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RGJRA E-Zine 15 Sep 2012 Page 7
The RGJ Wiltshire Branch Here in Wiltshire we have had a quiet time, with Brian and Blanche Darvill in Warminster Park on June 3rd where they had the Branch Banner on display as part of the Royal British Legion stand to celebrate HM The Queens Diamond Jubilee, a Branch meeting was held in July. In late June we received the sad news that Alan McCoy had died in Salisbury hospital Al had been ill for sometime, but it still came as a shock we had only celebrated his 50th birthday on Christmas eve, his funeral took place in St Johns Church on July 9th, with the wake at The Hunters Moon, the power of the internet came to the fore and many Royal Green Jackets, civil employment colleagues and friends came from near and far to support Lesley and family. Alan will be missed he had been with the Branch from our early days when he was still serving , he was always at the centre of things making his own style of entertainment at our functions, and being a leading light at the summer fancy dress BBQs, sadly this years did not take place as Alan and Lesley were due to host it, but it will be on our agenda next year, and Lesley has put her name down to be the host, she will remain in the Branch and our hearts.
well done Billy and his support team. As a Branch we now look forward to the following events all to be held in Warminster: • September 27th, Branch meeting in the Conservative Club. • October 13th, Annual Dinner in the Hunters Moon. • November 10th, a Remembrance Band Concert, with the Warminster Brass Band. in the Conservative Club. • November 11th, Sunday lunch TBC, followed by the Warminster Remembrance Parade and Service. • November 23rd, Skittles night, with fish and chip supper, in the Organ Inn. • December 1st, Christmas Cabaret Dinner Night, the Old Bell, details yet TBC. • December 6th, Branch meeting in the Conservative Club. Brian and Blanche are off again to Normandy for a weekend in September, where Brian will lay a Regimental wreath at Pegasus Bridge on Sunday the 16th and when they are not popping across the Channel they are also both heavily occupied in presenting a twice weekly show on Monday and Thursday from 11pm to 2pm on Wiltshire County Radio which broadcasts from the Civic Centre Studios in Warminster. Please see the published contact card below for more details and the WCR web site. We have just heard that our IT rep, Lee Massey is in Salisbury hospital with his long on-going health problem, and has under gone surgery to remove part of his left foot back to his heel, we wish him well and will update on his progress when fully known. Regards Brian Darvill
Alan McCoy
Only two weeks ago Alan and Lesley's son Lee was the headline in the local Warminster paper being presented with his Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Lee a civilian worker with the Defence Support Group had recently returned from a one year tour in Camp Bastion, and Alan had kept us updated on his tour, how proud he would have been. Congratulations to Billy Hughes for his epic cycle ride, raising money on his way for C 4 C,
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Internet Branch Members Update and The New Association Web Site application and payments can now be made by post with use of a membership application sent on request from ken.ambrose1@btinternet.com or downloaded from http://www.rgjassociation.info/ib/ Association/aboutassociation.html. Payments can also now be made through the use of your credit/ debit card over the telephone to 01235 548018 where the Membership Secretary, Mike Marr, will be pleased to complete your membership form and received your payment directly. Mike is usually in his office Mon-Fri from 9am - 5pm. In addition to access to the database full Association membership offers the following advantages: The Internet members list has now been updated for the period to the end of June 2012. This will be the last update of the Internet Branch Members List. As is generally known the main Association web site is soon to be rebuilt using a completely new template and to avoid further duplication of the membership process the Internet branch listings which have now been integrated into the RGJ Regimental Association database can be searched from http://www.royalgreenjackets.co.uk instead of through application to the Web Site Team. This means that with immediate effect any current Internet Branch member will be able to access the database on application to me and, as a full paying member of the Association, search for contact details on any number of the near to 6000 former Green Jackets that are listed. The current Internet Branch listings at www. rgjassociation.info/ib/membersarea/membersonly. html will remain accessible until this web site is replaced with the new format but with immediate effect all applications for and renewal of Internet branch membership will be done through the RGJRA database system where those wishing to link up with old friends via the Internet will be asked to conduct their own search for former colleagues through use of the database. The database will continue to list all new applicants and existing members of the Internet Branch but in order to conduct a search and view the results of that search Internet Branch members will need to become full paying members of the Association. The fee for full membership is £10 per year and
• Full members receive half price entry to both the Oxford and Winchester Reunions. A charge of £10 is made to non-members. This fee is then converted to a one year membership of the Association. • Full members who have an Internet connection are entitled to a personalised Association email address, e.g. billbloggs@rgjassociation.info • Full members receive the Association’s annual 52 page magazine, Swift and Bold, delivered to their postal address at the beginning of March. • Full members receive free entry to the Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum over the Winchester reunion weekend and half price entry for the remainder of the year on production of a valid membership card. • Full members are entitled to purchase `Swift and Bold` - A Portrait of the Royal Green Jackets – 1966 – 2007 at half price. Normal price is £35.00. N.B. It should be noted that anyone who permanently lives outside the EU is entitled to free and full access to the database on application to the Database Manager at membersdatabase@royalgreenjackets.co.uk. In such cases users are re-designated as an Overseas member. Overseas members temporarily returning to the UK wishing to attend the Winchester Reunion Veterans Day will only be charged a £5 entry fee.
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Winchester Veterans Day 14 July 2012
As always the Winchester reunion was a roaring success this year despite the inevitable rain which was kind enough to hold off long enough for the parade to pass without anyone getting too soggy and as ever the Winchester branch pulled out all the stops to make the event the annual success that it has consistently become with Winchester branch members now having now taken on the additional responsibility for keeping the RGJ Memorial Garden within Sir John Moore Barracks in its current pristine condition. For a variety of reasons I have not attended the Veterans Day for about six years or so and so for me it was particularly very good to see so many familiar, if older, faces and also to put faces to the names of people who I
regularly communicate with by email or on the telephone but have not previously met. One of the most noticeable things as far as improvements to attendance is concerned was a marked increase in the number of officers who attended and among many others I was particularly pleased to meet up with General Sir Robert Pascoe, General Jamie Balfour, Brigadier Mike Smith MC who is an old boss of mine from 1RGJ Recce Pln days, Lt Col John Poole-Warren, Simon Booth-Mason and Robert Harbord. In addition it was also good to see Roy Trower, Shirley and Ron Cassidy, Birgit and Bob Wright, Jimmy Matthews, Alan Payne, Billy Hughes, Ron Masterman and Dennis Godly with apologies to the many others, too numerous to mention here. On the gate the entrance procedure is now as finely tuned as the rest of the day with most who attend aware that if you are not a member of the Association as you approach the gate you certainly will be after you have passed through it. If you are a member the entrance fee is reduced from £10 to £5! However, in addition there were one or two unclear aspects of membership type and the fee that should be charged that came to light this year and one of those was the charge made for Overseas members entering the Reunion. Mike Marr, the Membership Secretary, had the answer as usual and for those still not aware if you attend the Veterans Day as an Overseas Member; that is, your permanent place of residence is normally outside the EU, you will only be asked to pay a £5 entrance fee! The other slightly grey area was in regard to Life Members Reunion entrance fees. Please (To be con nued on next page)
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(Con nued from previous page)
be clear that if you are a Life Member you are not required to pay the minimum £5 on entry. The turnout for the march past was a good one with Roy Stanger working in the background to ensure that all battalions were well represented by a cross section of the ranks that served in them and it should be noted that despite several red faces the pace was maintained throughout!
to Tim Marsh for the pictures of this year’s Veterans Day you see displayed with this article! To anyone thinking of attending the next Veterans Day on Saturday 13 July 2013 I would say that you will find it worth the effort and you will not be disappointed with the facilities or more especially the company. I know I wasn`t! Ken Ambrose
On returning home I was disappointed to learn from Seamus Lyons, the Webmaster for the Photographic web site, that the return of photographs from this year’s reunion was very small. This is one of the Association`s major annual events and I would ask all those people I saw with cameras to please send your pictures to Seamus or contact him at splyons@ btinternet.com to get them included on the Photo web site. We can never have too many photographs and you are asked to contribute towards them if you can. A big thank you
RGJ Officers on duty at St Paul’s Cathedral for HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Thanksgiving Service on Tuesday 5th June 2102
From left: Maj Jeremy Russell (Member Her Majesty's Body Guard of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms), Brig David Innes (Clerk of the Cheque and Adjutant, Queens Body Guard of the Yeomen of the Guard), Lt Col Peter Browne (Member Her Majesty's Body Guard of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms), Maj Gen Nick Cottam (Chapter Clerk St Paul's Cathedral), Lt Col Peter Chamberlin (Lieutenant, Her Majesty's Body Guard of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms)and Col Mike Robertson (Harbinger, Her Majesty's Body Guard of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms).
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Commemoration of the Battle of El Alamein A special Service of Thanksgiving in Westminster Abbey on Saturday 27 October 2012.
The courage and contribution of those who fought bravely in the Battle of El Alamein will be formally marked by the Ministry of Defence with a special Service of Thanksgiving, held in Westminster
Abbey at 3pm on Saturday 27 October 2012. The Reverend Jonathan Woodhouse QHC ChaplainGeneral (Army) will give the address at the Evensong service. Winston Churchill famously described the battle, which began on 23 October 1942 and ended on 4 November 1942, as the end of the beginning of the war. Led by General Montgomery, the Battle of El Alamein was the climax of months of struggle in the Western Desert as the Allies fought to keep open vital supply lines from the Mediterranean to the East. Minister for Defence, Personnel, Welfare and Veterans, Andrew Robathan said:
Montgomery in the Battle of El Alamain.
“The Battle of El Alamein was hugely significant as it was the first time the British gained the upper hand over the German Army. “The end of the beginning”. We should honour the survivors of the Battle and commemorate all those who took part. El Alamein turned the tide in the Western Desert – and arguably of the war.”
Notes: • Those wishing to attend are asked to apply by email to tracey.broome576@mod.uk or by telephone 0207 807 0970. Tickets will be posted by 19 October. • A reception will follow in Church House. For more information please contact: • Tom Callagher on 020 7218 0341/ 07500 121264; or by email at tom.callagher880@mod.uk • Naomi Moore on 020 7218 6162/ 07836 721768; or by email at naomi.moore952@mod.uk
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THE ROYAL GREEN JACKETS (RIFLES) MUSEUM After an excellent first 6 months to the year, during which visitor numbers increased by 13% compared to 2011, the last two months, July and August, have witnessed a significant decline to the extent that visitor numbers during the period 1 January to 31 August 2012 are now down 5% on last year. However, this year’s fall was expected and, in fact, has not been as bad as feared. Having projected at the beginning of the year that the Museum would receive 12,000 visitors in 2012, the forecast now is for 12,600 (13,367 in 2011).
July during which Vic Gregg, a veteran of 2nd Battalion, The Rifle Brigade, spoke about his experiences before, during and after the Second World War, including in the ‘Snipe’ action at El Alamein.
Looking further on the bright side, the decline in visitor numbers so far this year has been entirely due to fewer visitors entitled to free entry. Paying visitors are up 2% and income from admission charges up 7%. Over-the-counter shop sales are up 15%, while the Museum’s online shop sales are up 68% and income from research up 27%. All this means increased income to offset the Museum’s running costs. This summer the staff have again been very busy orchestrating a number of events both on the Museum’s behalf and on behalf of Winchester’s Military Museums. The Armed Forces Sunday Fun Day held on the day after National Armed Forces Day has now become an annual event which this year attracted 220 people. This was quickly followed by the RGJ Veterans’ Day on 14
Morris Dancers at the Armed Forces Sunday Fun Day.
Denis Avey
Vic’s talk was followed on 8 September by a talk from Denis Avey, another veteran of 2nd Battalion, The Rifle Brigade, who was captured at Sidi Rezegh, near Tobruk, during Operation Crusader in November 1941. He later survived the torpedoing of the Italian ship taking him as a prisoner-of-war across the Mediterranean and many other escapades before finishing up in a POW camp alongside Auschwitz. The story of how he subsequently exchanged clothes with a Jewish inmate on two separate occasions in order to enter the concentration camp known as Auschwitz III is nothing short of remarkable. Both Vic and Denis are now well into their 90s but looking fit for a few more years yet. Each is the subject of a book – Vic’s is called Rifleman and Denis’s is called The Man who Broke into Auschwitz. Each should be read. Signed copies may be bought from the Museum shop including online. As always the Museum is looking for new
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ways to generate income and has teamed up with the Holiday Inn, Winchester, to offer a special interest weekend break focused on the theme ‘For Valour’. You will find an advertisement for the weekend. Those who know about these things highlight that the weekend represents extraordinarily good value. There are still some places available, so, if you are interested, do not hesitate to
get in touch with the Holiday Inn. Meanwhile, be assured that your Regiment’s Museum continues to flourish, albeit in difficult times. In particular, it is always pleasing to meet former members of the Regiment visiting the Museum. When you do, please make yourself known to the staff as a warm welcome awaits you.
A special interest themed break centered around “For Valour” To be held on the weekend of 5th-7th October the itinerary includes the following: ● A talk on the origins and history of the Victoria Cross by Lieutenant General Sir Christopher Wallace, author of “Focus on courage; the 59 Victoria Crosses of the Royal Green Jackets” ● A visit to the Royal Green Jackets museum hosted by Sir Christopher Wallace with an optional guided tour of the military memorials in Winchester Cathedral. ● A talk on the significance and value of medals by David Erskine-Hill from the London Auction House Dix Noonan Webb which specializes in medal sales. ● Two nights’ accommodation and breakfast at the four star Holiday Inn Winchester ● Dinner on both nights at the Holiday Inn Winchester. Friday night three course dinner in the Morn Hill Brasserie and Saturday night a private four course dinner in the Hampshire Suite The weekend is charged at £149 per person based on two people sharing a twin or double room.
For more information or to make a booking telephone: 0871 942 9188 Email:info@hiwinchester.co.uk or book online at: www.hiwinchester.co.uk Holiday Inn Winchester, Telegraph Way, Morn Hill, Winchester S021 1HZ
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To contact the Museum, telephone or e-mail the Curator, Christine Pullen. Tel: 01962 828549 or e-mail: curator@rgjmuseum.co.uk www.rgjmuseum.co.uk OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Last entry 4.15 p.m.) Sundays: The Museum is open on Sundays from 1 July to 9 September 2012. It is closed on other Sundays and over Christmas and the New Year. Visits to the Museum’s archives are by appointment only.
RGJ MUSEUM SHOP NOW ‘ON LINE’ The Museum Shop is now able to take payment on line for any transaction you want to make - gone is the need to telephone and place an order, your purchases are just a click (or two) away! There is a wide range of stock held by the shop and some excellent books in particular. Go to the Museum website (www.rgjmuseum.co.uk) and follow the link to SHOP) to see what is available. As an introductory offer from 1 May - 30 June anyone buying a copy of ‘Swift and Bold a Portrait of The Royal Green Jackets’ will receive, free, one of the very popular Regimental Tea Towels worth £4.50p. ‘Swift and Bold’ covers the history of the Regiment in 192 lavishly illustrated pages; it is a book that every
member of the Royal Green Jackets should have and in which you are certain to find some memories either in words or pictures. If you haven’t got a copy get one now while stocks last. The cost is £23.50p incl p&p (UK only) - but why not order one for £16.50p and avoid postage by paying for it and collecting it from the Museum shop? If you want to do this then place your order by emailing curator@rgjmuseum.co.uk; the book and tea towel will be waiting for you on the Museum. Sales from the Shop are a valuable source of income for your Regimental Museum; do support it and make it your ‘first stop shop’ for Regimental items and other gifts.
The Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum Shop • • • • • •
We have a wide range of items on offer! Prints and post cards Books and Music Regimental ties and accessories Regimental Clothing Gifts to suit all members of the family … and much, much more.
Help support your Museum, visit the on-line on line shop
shop.rgjmuseum.co.uk http://www.shop.rgjmuseum.co.uk
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COLONEL COMMANDANT'S MESSAGE ON ARMY 2020 STATEMENT Fellow Rifleman, I am writing to let you know how the Army 2020 (A2020) study will impact on The Rifles. This has been a very detailed exercise that has been entirely driven by the need to reduce Regular Army manpower by 20% in order to save money. Units have been cut out of the ORBAT in every part of the Army and, after our experience in 2007, I have great sympathy with all of them. However, it has been recognised that the Rifles has played its part in previous cuts, and has developed a regimental structure that is effective and robust for the future. We will therefore retain all our Battalions. This is clearly very good news and is proof of the extraordinary efforts that have been made over the past 5 years to make the Regiment work, in all its pillars. We should be very pleased with the outcome, but we must not be complacent, there is a great deal to be done if we are to retain our relevance and enhance our reputation. We do not yet know what roles we will be given or where our final basing locations will be, this will become clear over the next few months as the A2020 implementation plan is developed. I know that our structure will enable us to provide opportunity for all those who need it, and we will be able to draw on our characteristics as a forward-looking infantry regiment relying on mutual respect, self-discipline and a relentless desire for innovation to face the security challenges that are bound to emerge over the next few years. So despite all the uncertainty, the future has plenty to offer us. But we must not underestimate the challenges that we will face; I would like to highlight 3: • First our success will depend on our ability to integrate the Regular and Reserve elements of the Regiment. This is the ‘big idea’ behind A2020 and we must be in the forefront of making it work. • We must continue to recruit and retain high calibre officers and Riflemen. We have been well manned over the past 5 years and this has to continue. Everyone in the Regiment has a responsibility to support this effort. • We must continue to build on our unique characteristics as a Regiment. We are at the start of a journey, The Rifles has the capacity to play an enduring role in the Army’s ORBAT, but it is up to us to make it so. I cannot provide all the details that you will want to know about the future now, a great deal more work needs to be done before we know exactly what the A2020 means for us, but you can rest assured that The Rifles will be a key part of the future Army structure and we will have plenty of opportunity to exploit the opportunities that I am sure will emerge. Swift and Bold, Yours sincerely Nick Parker
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4th Bn The RIFLES
BATUS - British Army Training Unit Suffield Having had our Battlegroup “run out” in Kenya last year, the summer of 2012 saw A, B, R and S Companies deploy to BATUS in support of other units. B Company deployed on Ex PRAIRIE THUNDER 1 to work as the Light Role Company with 1 RRF. A, R and the vast bulk of S Company followed in mid-June to work as part of the “Hybrid” (though definitely not carbon neutral) 2 RTR Battlegroup. B Company had an excellent exercise; impressing their Fusilier hosts and Observer Mentors alike with a typically strong performance. Less impressive was 2Lt Alex Perry’s first command; what had been a beautiful, proud MAN truck burning to ash and twisted metal mid exercise. The cause remains unclear, but the Officers’ Mess is in little doubt that Alex must surely be entirely to blame! It now lies in the BATUS vehicle park as an eerie warning to future subalterns. For A Coy, Ex PRAIRIE THUNDER 2 was spent working alongside 2 RTR’s Badger Squadron in a Protected Mobility role. Their fine vehicles were the ever reliable and extremely comfortable Bulldogs which were driven with subtlety, care and expert attention (durch). The Battlegroup attacks across the prairie proved long, hot and dusty affairs, testing the Riflemen’s endurance. Yet A Company’s determination and ridiculously (some might say unjustifiably) high morale pulled everyone through and they always debussed from their ‘Badger Taxi’s’ ready for a good scrap with the enemy. The exercise was capped off by a company day out to the Medicine Hat Stampede. Sipping ice cold beer whilst watching cowboys and girls getting thrown off horses and tackling cows was a fine reward for a long exercise on the Plain. Meanwhile R Company deployed as 2 RTR’s light infantry company. As opposed
to Kenya in 2011, a BATUS exercise was always going to be largely Armour focussed. So it proved; yet the exercise offered many useful training opportunities that were fully exploited. From S Company, the Mortar platoon provided two lines to support 2 RTR, while the FSGs formed two patrols and, working both independently and with the Battlegroup Reconnaissance Platoon, proved highly effective against enemy armour. The Reconnaissance and Sniper platoons allocated sections to the Rifle Companies; their expertise and usual high standards contributed greatly to the effect the companies were able to achieve. All in all, while the Battalion didn’t have a chance this year to deploy as the 4Rifles Battlegroup, the training opportunities that Canada provided at company level were excellent. It is no coincidence that all companies were commended for their CQB and night fighting skills. This is a testament to the extent to which the Battalion has exploited the opportunity presented by the issue of FIST kit as well as to the continuing “Rifleman’s Resolve” to remain at the forefront of tactical development.
R-4-6-B Coy training to deal with the aftermath of a suicide bomb in Hettar Village, BATUS.
With the turnover of Riflemen in the companies quite high even since last year, the benefits of forging new teams in a testing and immersive training environment will undoubtedly be reaped in MST later in 2012.
Maj Angus Strong, 4 Rifles
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‘Bullet magnet’ soldier survives two direct hits by Taliban fighters
Rifleman Daniel Leonard from Sunderland of 3 Rifles who has been shot TWICE! The first shot hit the butt of his Rifle, the second shot hit him in the back and he was saved by his body armour - all within a 2 week period Daniel is now known as "Bullet magnet " to his mates
Dubbed the “bullet magnet”, squaddie Daniel, 21, who is serving with the 3rd Battalion, The Rifles, saw a round hit the butt of his rifle during a fire fight. Two weeks later, a bullet was fired into his body armour as he provided cover in Nad-e Ali North, in Afghanistan. The former Houghton Kepier School pupil was sent to Afghanistan for a six-month tour in April - his first since joining the Army in November 2009. Dad Kevin Leonard, of Houghton, said: “We’re so proud of Daniel and what he is doing, as we are of every single other soldier over there. Daniel passed out in April 2010, accomplishing his childhood dream of serving in the Armed Forces and following in the military footsteps of his dad, who served in the Navy. His younger brother, Jack Leonard, 16, also plans on signing up with the Royal Marines when he is 17. Daniel’s girlfriend of almost three years, Emma Crowther, said: “I miss him madly when he’s away and do worry about him but we knew the risk was always there.” Daniel will see his family for two weeks when he returns home in July, before finishing his tour in October.
Soldiers train for operations after Afghanistan A fresh focus is being put on fighting in metropolitan areas as the British Army prepares for operations beyond Afghanistan. The Field Training Unit (FTU) has launched the Urban Operators Instructors Course to drill troops in skills and tactics for environments far removed from the dusty expanses of Helmand province. In the two-week package at Copehill Down, Service personnel turn their hands to the alternative disciplines under the gaze of experienced assessors. Explaining what the new programme offers, Captain Andy Jennings, Royal Engineers, said: "This has been designed for troops who are already instructors but it's the first time a formal qualification can be earned. The opening week
involves demonstrations and teaching from FTU personnel and the second sees students become the teachers." The intensive course has been developed in line with the findings of the Future Land Operating Concept and Future Character of Conflict papers, which state that warfare in coming years is likely to occur in urban areas. As a result, soldiers in training found themselves storming across pedestrianised precincts into houses and coming under fire from snipers holed up in high-rise flats, rather than patrolling through open spaces.
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British soldiers visit Salamanca for battle bicentennial Modern-day soldiers have followed in their regimental ancestors’ footsteps to Spain, to mark the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Salamanca. the event saw the British soldiers parade alongside Spanish troops from the 11th Engineer Regiment, as well as the battle re-enactors.
Re-enactors at the 200th Anniversary Commemoration of the Battle of Salamanca in Spain.
Some 100 personnel from The Rifles, The Royal Dragoon Guards, The Coldstream Guards, The Scots Guards, The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, The Royal Anglian Regiment, and The Royal Irish Regiment travelled to the Spanish city for a battlefield tour and freedom parade. All forebear regiments of The Rifles, who led the anniversary celebrations, were represented at the Battle of Salamanca. Organised by Peninsular War 200 (PW200), the visit gave the troops an insight into the pivotal encounter between the Duke of Wellington’s allied forces and the French Army, commanded by Marshal Marmont, on 22 July 1812. Considered Wellington’s greatest victory, the battle proved that Napoleon’s Army could be beaten, and was the turning point in the six-year Peninsular campaign: “For a campaign that was only 200 years ago, we know so little about it,” said Captain Simon Walker of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. “You can learn so many lessons, and so many tactics that were employed back then apply today. It’s a brilliant opportunity for the soldiers to come and see it and learn about it in person.” The battlefield tour was part of a
series of events to commemorate the bicentennial. A plaque dedicated to the memory of those that fell was unveiled on a hill overlooking the battlefield at Arapiles, before a colourful re-enactment of the clash by more than 100 actors in early 19th century uniforms brought history to life. The day culminated in The Rifles being awarded the Freedom of the City of Salamanca.
Gen Parker presented the city with a silver bugle, the emblem of The Rifles, and said the Freedom was an ‘extraordinarily significant honour’ for the Regiment: “We take Salamanca very seriously because it’s such a key part of our regimental culture,” he added. “Visits like this provoke thoughts about the people who preceded us and their acts of bravery, and you can relate directly to that in the way that people behave on the battlefield today. “Coming to places like this links you back into the past, to the threads of history that are so important to us.” The visit to Salamanca was one of a series of annual events coordinated by PW200 to commemorate the bicentennial of the whole Peninsular War.
Lt Col (Ret’d) John Poole-Warren with the Key to the City of Salamanca.
Attended by General Sir Nick Parker, Commander Land Forces,
It followed previous successful trips to Vimeiro in 2008, La Coruña and Talavera in 2009, Buçaco in 2010, and Barrosa and La Albuera in 2011: “There are three major events left to commemorate,” said Colonel Nick Lipscombe, Chairman of PW200. “There is Vitoria in June 2013, Nivelle in November 2013, and Toulouse, marking the end of the War, in April 1814. “We are keen to establish sponsor units for these events,” he added. A Ministry of Defence article.
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The Battle of Salamanca on July 22, 1812 French army south, then west to turn the British right flank. Marmont was mistaken. Wellington actually had most of his divisions hidden behind the ridge. His 3rd and 5th Divisions would soon arrive from Salamanca. Wellington had planned to retreat if outflanked, but he was watching warily to see if Marmont made a blunder. The Frenchmen were cut to pieces by the heavy cavalrymen’s sabres. Many of the survivors surrendered. Historical re-enactors at Salamanca.
In the Peninsular War (1808-1814) of the Napoleonic campaigns, the Battle of Salamanca, fought on July 22, 1812, was a serious setback for the French, and a mighty setback for Salamanca, whose western quarter was seriously damaged. The battle which raged that day is famous as a defining moment in military history; many thousands of men were slaughtered by cannon fire in the space of only a few short hours.
Wellington’s supply line. By this day, Wellington had finally decided to withdraw his army all the way back to Portugal. Suddenly, he observed that Marmont had made the tactical error of separating his left flank from his main body. He immediately ordered the major part of his army to attack the overextended French left flank. Early on July 22, Marmont’s army was moving south, with its leading elements southeast of Salamanca.
During this crisis, the French army lost its commander. Marmont dashed for his horse, but was caught in a British shellburst which broke his arm and two ribs. His second-in-command, Bonet was wounded very soon after. Records conflict, Marmont claiming that he was wounded as his flank became overextended, and his incapacitation led to the error not being corrected before Wellington attacked. His enemies place his wounding during Wellington’s attack. As the rest of the French army streamed away, Ferey formed his
The Battle of Salamanca saw AngloPortuguese and Spanish armies under the Duke of Wellington defeat Marshal Auguste Marmont's French forces among the hills around Arapiles south of Salamanca. The antecedent Regiments of the Royal Green Jackets took part in the campaigns. 43rd Foot, 52nd Foot, 60th Foot and 95th Rifles were all given Salamanca as battle honour. The battle followed a frustrating period of six weeks for Wellington. His foray into central Spain in the spring of 1812 had been blocked by Marmont’s army. As Wellington advanced, Marmont’s strength grew as he received reinforcements. Wellington withdrew as the odds turned against him, with the armies often marching close together and Marmont repeatedly threatening
To the west, the Marshal could see Wellington’s 7th Division deployed on a ridge. Spotting a dust cloud in the distance, Marmont surmised that most of the British army was in retreat and that he faced only a rearguard. He planned to move his
division in a single three-deep line, with each flank covered by a battalion in square. The battle established Wellington as (To be con nued on next page)
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‘Far in Advance’ A military painting of a soldier in the Peninsular War.
an offensive general. It was said that Wellington “defeated an army of 40,000 men in 40 minutes.”
Spanish and 2,038 Portuguese dead or wounded against about 13,000 French.
This battle was the most cleverly fought, the largest in scale, the most important in results, of any that the English had won in recent times. It brings up Lord Wellington’s reputation almost to the level of that of Marlborough. Up to this day we knew his prudence, his eye for choosing good positions, and the skill with which he used them. But at Salamanca he has shown himself a great and able master of manoeuvring. He kept his dispositions hidden nearly the whole day: he allowed us to develop our movement before he pronounced his own: he played a close game; he utilised the oblique order in the style of Frederick the Great.
As a consequence of Wellington’s victory, his army was able to advance to and liberate Madrid for two months, but then retreated all the way back to Portugal. The French were forced to abandon Andalusia permanently, and the loss of Madrid irreparably damaged King Joseph’s pro-French government.
The losses were 3,129 British, six
Salamanca The City of Salamanca is situated approximately 120 miles (200 km) west of Madrid and 50 miles (80 km) east of the Portuguese border. The province of Salamanca belongs to the autonomous Spanish community of Castile and León (Castilla y León).
Salamanca Coat of Arms
1st Duke of Wellington KG, GCB, GCH, PC, FRS Born: Arthur Wesley, 1 May 1769 in Dublin, Ireland. The fourth son of Garret Wesley, 1st Earl of Mornington, and Countess of Mornington, Anne. The family changed the name from Wesley to the more aristocratic Wellesley. Died: 14 September 1852 (aged 83) Walmer, Kent, England. Resting place: St Paul's Cathedral, London. Political party: Tory (Prime Minister 1828-1830 and 1836). Spouse: Catherine Pakenham. Children: Arthur, Charles. Military service Years of service: 1787–1852 Rank: Field Marshal Commands: Commander-in-Chief of the British Army Battles/Wars: Flanders Campaign, Fourth Anglo-Mysore War, Second AngloMaratha War, English Wars, Peninsular War and Waterloo campaign. Military offices: Colonel of the 33rd (the 1st Yorkshire West Riding) Regiment of Foot (1806–1813), Colonel of the Royal Regiment of Horse Guards (The Blues) (1813–1827), Governor of Plymouth (1819–1827), Commander-in-Chief of the Forces (1827–1828), Colonel of the Grenadier Guards (1827–1852) and Commander-in-Chief of the Forces (1842–1852).
The Duke of Wellington Field Marshal Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, KG, GCB, GCH, PC, FRS (1769 - 1852), a British officer and statesman. Painting by the artist Sir Thomas Lawrence in 1814, several months before the Battle of Waterloo.
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Welcome to Riflesdirect The Regimental Shop of The Rifles
Riflesdirect is owned by the regiment - managed and run by the regiment - for the benefit of the regiment - with all proceeds returned to the regiment to support benevolence and welfare. Inside our shop you will find a comprehensive catalogue of Rifles uniform accoutrements and a good selection of Rifles branded general merchandise including a small selection of regimentally branded products from its forming regiments. All of our products have been extensively sourced, sampled and authorised by the regiment to comply with the Regimental Dress Code and Rifles brand with regard to quality, durability and design. You may find some similar products cheaper elsewhere - but not many. More importantly by purchasing from your own regimental shop you are assured that not only is your purchase everything it should be regimentally, but is also helping to support our Riflemen for which we sincerely thank you. We can provide RGJRA Members with OBLI/ KRRC/RB/RGJ - Cap Badges, Cufflinks, Tie Slides, Lapel Pins, Ties, Umbrellas, Rifle Green Berets, RGJ Hat Ribbon, RGJ Plaques, Blazers, Book ‘Swift & Bold’. Telephone order:0845 6434584 or view online at http://www.riflesdirect.com Would you like speak to and see someone face to face? Well now you can as Riflesdirect is available on Skype Mon - Fri 0900 -1600 GMT.
You can talk to us via Skype for free from anywhere in the world.
Soldier Magazine on Line Click Here
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Members of the Regiment in the Olympics
The 1908 London Olympics games
Colonel Millner the Oldest Gold Medallist
Long Range Individual Twenty shots at 1,000 yards by Col. J. Millner, United Kingdom representative. Wind varied on one occasion three points or 30 inches between two shots. Elevation lowered on account of high shot, No. 10, in the first target, with result No. 1 in next series struck low. Next shot with same elevation remained low. Elevation then raised, but when No. 4 struck. high the average elevation was resumed and remainder were bulls. Colonel Joshua Millner.
JOSHUA (JERRY) KEARNEY MILLNER was 61 years and 4 days old when he won the Men’s free rifle shooting gold medal in 1908. The event took place at Bisley, Surrey on 9th July. He thus became Britain’s oldest ever medallist (despite being born in Dublin) and the second oldest of all time. He also remains the oldest winner of an individual event at the Olympics.
Shooting at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London saw fifteen shooting events. Most of the events were held at Bisley, Surrey. The men's free rifle at 1000 yards was one of 15 events on the Shooting at the 1908 Summer Olympics programme. Each shooter fired 20 shots at the target 1000 yards (914 m). A bullseye was worth 5 points, so the maximum possible score was 100. Place 1 2 3
Shooter Joshua Millner (GBR) Kellogg Casey (USA) Maurice Blood (GBR)
Score 98 93 92
Millner, an Army colonel of considerable firearms experience, served in the Territorial Army as a lieutenant in the Finsbury Rifles (from 1882 to 1887) before joining the Carlow Militia, a regiment of the King’s Royal Rifle Corps. The Militia was disbanded in 1908 with Millner its last commanding officer. His Olympic victory was also unusual as rather than the 50m at which small-bore rifle targets are placed today, the target was 1,000 yards away. However the target for this long range event was 6ft by 10ft and had a 36inch bull’s-eye. Colonel Millner’s other interest was breeding dogs. He published the book “The Irish Setter, Its History and Training” in 1924 which is still considered an important work about the breed. He died on 11th November 1931.
The Olympic Gold Medal for Open Individual Rifle Shooting, 1,000 yards, awarded to Colonel J.K. Millner,15 carat, 28 gram, extremely fine, framed, also his winning target mounted with an “Oak Spray from Windsor sent by His Majesty King Edward VII to Col. J.K. Millner”. Reproduced from the KRRC Journal 2009.
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The 1912 Stockholm Olympics games
An Olympian and a Green Jacket Brig-Gen Arnold Nugent Strode-Jackson CBE, DSO with 3 Bars, MID x 6
A.N.S. Strode-Jackson came to Brasenose in 1910 and his sporting reputation was made during his Oxford days. He rowed and played football and hockey for the College, being Captain of the Hockey XI. He won the mile race for Oxford against Cambridge three times and was President of the Oxford University Athletic Club. Whilst still an undergraduate he became an Olympic gold medallist, winning the 1500 metres in the Stockholm Olympics of 1912. In 1912 at the age of 21, while still an undergraduate, Jackson cut short his fishing holiday in Norway, and travelled by train to compete in that year’s Olympic Games in Sweden. He had to compete as a private entry, not having been chosen by the Great Britain team. This was the last Olympics at which such private entries were allowed. Even when compared to the amateurish race preparation of the era, Jackson’s training regime of massage, golf and walking seemed very relaxed. At Stockholm, American hopes were high to win a gold in 1500m, as the USA dominated mile racing
at that time, and seven of the runners in the final were from the USA. The race started at a modest 65 second pace, until Norman Taber from USA took the lead and increased the pace. At the bell for the final lap, Abel Kiviat, a world record holder in 1500 m from USA, was first, followed by Taber and John Paul Jones, the mile world record holder from the USA. On the final turn, Mel Sheppard and Jackson also joined the crowd on his heels, with Sweden’s Ernst Wide closing fast. The three Americans ran abreast in an attempt to stop anyone from overtaking, so Jackson had to run wide. With 50 yards left, Jackson came even with Kiviat and Taber, as Jones and Wide started to fade. Jackson summoned one last burst and captured the gold in 3:56.8, an Olympic record. Kiviat and Taber both clocked 3:56.9, and the photo had to be reviewed before officials handed the silver to Kiviat. Baker finished sixth. At the time, it was widely acclaimed as being “the greatest race ever run”. At the outbreak of World War I in August 1914, Jackson was commissioned in the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment and, in September 1914, was attached to the 13th (Service) Battalion, The Rifle Brigade, as a 2nd Lieutenant. He went over to France with the battalion and was with them until promoted Lieutenant-Colonel in May 1918, when he took command of the 13th Battalion, The King’s Royal Rifle Corps.He was made an Acting Major by the time of his first DSO on 4 June 1917, and in August 1917, Acting Lieutenant-Colonel. He was made a full Lieutenant-Colonel in May 1918, and Acting Brigadier in October 1918. Jackson served in the King’s Royal Rifle Corps, becoming the youngest Brigadier-General in the British Army and being awarded the Distinguished Service Order with three bars. The war put an end to his sporting career, for he was wounded three times and left permanently lame. He was awarded his CBE, DSO and Three Bars, and 6x MID in the the London Gazette. He was a member of the British delegation at the Paris Peace Conference, 1919, and was awarded the CBE for his work there. He was called to the Bar at Middle Temple. Compiled by Ron Cassidy from an article by Brasenose College, the Internet and prompted by Major Alastair Stewart. (See Stewart at www.riflebrigadehistory.info.)
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Musical Fundraising Jazz Evening 31 March 2012 The evening’s programme was the brainchild of one of Simon’s friends from Lloyds, Bales Armitage, who arranged for the music to be provided by none other than Mr Joe Stilgoe, who donated his own time and that of his Band for free. They were breathtaking and engaged with the audience as only Joe can. Joe was joined by one of Joanne’s great friends, Wilma Kniep, who was a jazz singer in her youth in Holland and who also sang brilliantly.
Buglers of the Waterloo Band.
A musical fundraising evening took place at West Hill Golf Club, Brookwood, Surrey on 31 March 2012 in memory of the late Joanne Booth-Mason for The Joanne BoothMason Memorial Fund/ The Rifles Care For Casualties charity. Joanne’s sizable fund was kindly set up by her employer of eight years, Mr Doug Miller of USA who was a Green Beret Special Forces soldier from Vietnam days. Joanne’s Fund is a restricted fund held in the Rifles Benevolent Trust supporting the C4C Appeal. The event was well supported by over 100 close friends of Joanne and Simon, from childhood days right up to 2012 and included people who had been involved in various areas of their lives, such as Cats Protection, Lloyd’s Insurance Market and others.
Bales also provided most of the sponsors who were exceedingly generous. There were only six prizes in total, but what prizes they were. The three auction prizes were: 1) a 3 bedroom villa for a week near St Tropez with swimming pool and private beach (courtesy of Mr J Durham); 2) a 1 night stay in a suite complete with a romantic dinner for 2, champagne/wine etc at Westbury Hotel, Mayfair, London, including a chauffeur driven ride one way in a Rolls Royce Phantom (courtesy of Mr J Cote and Connect Limos), and 3) a 4 ball Green Fee Voucher at West Hill Golf Club (courtesy of West Hill Golf Club). The three raffles prizes were:
The evening consisted of pre dinner drinks, a brilliant introductory speech by an injured rifleman from Afghanistan, Matt Fisher, who explained in a superbly humorous manner why C4C is so important to our injured service personnel and their families; this was followed by a three-course dinner heralded by 3 buglers from the Waterloo Band, Oxford. After dinner, guests enjoyed two sessions of jazz music with an auction in the interval and a raffle at the end of the evening.
Matt Fisher and Simon Booth-Mason.
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so many ways.
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To date Joanne’s Fund has helped 4 cases: 3 double amputees cases with temporary stair lifts, general household expenses to the parents of an injured rifleman and a hand powered tricycle. The last case has involved a contribution to the expenses of 60 injured riflemen who are undertaking an Anglo Saxon archaeological dig on Salisbury Plain as part of an official Army/C4C ‘Operation Nightingale’.
Joe Stilgoe and his band.
1) a 5 bedroom villa in Luxor, Egypt with personal tour guide and butler (courtesy of Mr and Mrs C Morgan); 2) a Corporate hospitality package for two at the Guildford Cricket Festival (courtesy of Mr C Murrin), and 3) a 2 ball Green Fee Voucher at Woking Golf Club (courtesy of Woking Golf Club).
Joanne’s Fund has subsequently been expanded 1) to assist the families and children of injured riflemen e.g. pay for extracurricular activities like ballet or swimming lessons, and 2) to include mental health and especially counselling costs. However, any reasonable request would be considered if it would improve the quality of family life and make a difference. Simon Booth-Mason
The evening went extremely well in every respect and much enjoyment, fun and happiness was had by one and all. And the charity received £14,857 to help our fallen and injured riflemen and their families. The Regiment can be rightly proud of L/Cpl Brockman and his two buglers who undoubtedly set the scene for a civilian audience who had not seen or heard our buglers before. I would also like to thank Joanne’s friends who helped to make the evening a success in
Simon Booth-Mason
Teal Photography Mark Adams of Teal Photography goes out of his way to support the Association by supplying the London branch with excellent pictures of all its events. When you need a pro photographer for weddings, events and portraits contact Mark.
Email: info@tealphoto.co.uk or visit www.tealphoto.co.uk Tel: 0208 786 8880 or Mob: 07973 293795
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Sponsored Cycle Ride by Andy Norris In June 2011 Andy Norris set off from Liverpool FC on an epic cycle ride to Spion Kop, South Africa. His sponsored ride was done to raise much needed money for three military charities, the Army Benevolent Fund, the Royal British Legion and of course Care for Casualties. On 7th November North West branch Secretary Ray Gerrard received a phone call to inform him that Andy, after many adventures, had successfully completed the 6087 mile trip and reached Spion Kop, South Africa. In early December 2011 Andy returned to the UK and a welcome home dinner was given by the North West branch.
Andy Norris (centre) is welcomed home by North West Chairman Gareth Dixon and branch Secretary Ray Gerrard.
Cheques Presented In May of 2012 the North West Branch of the Association presented the money raised through Andy`s amazing efforts to the chosen charities.
Col Ian Walton, Vice-Chairman Merseyside Branch of the Army Benevolent Fund (The Soldiers Charity), accepts the cheque on behalf of the ABF presented by Gareth Dixon, Chairman RGJRA North West Branch.
Gareth Dixon presents Mr Cyril Goulbourne, President of the Formby Branch of the Royal British Legion, and Mr Geoff Davis, Poppy Appeal Treasurer of the Formby branch, with a cheque for £875.
A cheque for an equal amount has been sent by post to The Rifles Care for Casualties charity at Rifles RHQ Winchester.
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In Aid of The Rifles Care for Casualties Appeal NAPOLEON AND THE RIFLES by John Bendit
How was Napoleon defeated by the fore-runners of The Rifles? What, if any, was Napoleon’s legacy to Europe and the World? Why did Portuguese troops become part of Wellington’s élite? Who was Lieutenant-General Sir Charles von Alten KCB? Why was General Craufurd a prisoner of war in South America? How did Sir John Moore make his mark on The Rifles? Why did Queen Victoria review six thousand troops in Hyde Park?
If you want the answers, just write a cheque for not less than £10 made out to ‘JDB Book’ and send it with your name and address to John Bendit 5 Goodacres Arundel Road Arundel, BN18 0SF and he will send you the book.
MOD calls for ideas on IED detection Ministry of Defence scientists are inviting UK industry and academia to showcase their innovative ideas for detecting improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Experts at the MOD's Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) are accepting applications to work with them, potentially to take part in a series of IED-detection demonstration days, which will take place between 3 September 2012 and 31 January 2013. Dstl is interested in concepts at a very early stage of development, through to those at the prototype stage. Industry and academia with the most promising and sufficiently developed submissions will be invited to a Dstl site where the innovations will be tested against a representative threat. In particular, the sensing challenges
will focus on concealed IEDs, either worn by a person, or hidden in a vehicle, buried by or in the road, or hidden in a wall, box, bag or other container. Organisations with a selected submission will work with Dstl and military subject matter experts to design a scenario suited to the technological maturity of their proposed sensing solution. Dstl will provide feedback to each applicant, regardless of success. There is the possibility of funding for the most promising concepts.
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SWIFT AND BOLD AT THE ALBERT HALL 18 OCT 2012 TICKETS NOW ON SALE This event is open to the general public who are most welcome to attend. Please forward this information to anyone you think may be interested in attending.
Tickets are now on sale for Swift and Bold - The Rifles at The Albert Hall, a regimental celebration of 200 years of history and 5 years as The Rifles which is in support of Care for Casualties. Featuring the massed bands and buglers of The Rifles with guest artists including world famous tenor Wynne Evans, the Ghurkha Pipers and the Fijian Choir; this is sure to be a memorable occasion and is a wonderful opportunity to stage a first reunion of The Rifles by gathering the serving regiment and all our supporters in the inspiring venue of the Albert Hall. As the programme firms up more details of the event will be published on the website at www.riflesevents.co.uk. To make a booking go to http://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/the-rifles/default.aspx. This site uses software components that do not work on DII so it is best to use an up to date browser on a non DII system to make your booking.
The RGJ Band and Bugles Live on in Germany During the time that RGJ battalions were stationed in Germany the Band and Bugles secured an annual event - The Neuss Schutzenfest, in the city of Neuss near Dusseldorf. These events last from Friday till Monday each
August bank holiday weekend and involve hundreds of participants and tens of thousands of spectators. The concept was that local shooting clubs and other (To be con nued on next page)
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traditional institutions get QUIRINUS BAND & BUGLE together and parade through CORPS 2011 the city and adjoining boroughs culminating in a shooting competition to decide a new King of the Schutzenfest. The RGJ Band & Bugles had an instant and long lasting effect on the events and were a great favourite of the crowds and all participants. Their loyalty was mainly with the Neuss Riding Club formed IN ANLEHNUNG AN DIE in 1826 and one of the oldest ROYAL GREEN JACKETS riding clubs in Germany. In total the B&B attended for about 18 years in a row until the restructure of the Bands and resurrection into the Light auch in Neuss geben. Mit für dieses musikalische Mit Ihrer Unterstützung gemeinsam ans Ziel. dieser Idee soll zukünftig den Projekt. Division and subsequently, The Rifles. However, a spark was Wenn wir Sie neugierig Am 20.11.2011 schufen eine Schützen sowie den begeisterten Zuschauern gemacht haben, stehen wir Hand voll Musiker ein ignited and their unique sound etwas Einmaliges geboten Ihnen gerne zur Verfügung. Projekt, welches es zuvor in and appearance was obviously werden. Neuss noch nicht gegeben Weitere Infos finden sie missed leading to a group hat. Erstmalig soll es eine Wir haben die Musiker und unter: getting the project of creating die nötige Motivation und englische Brass Band (ähnl. a new band and bugles styled www.qbbc.de wie die Royal Green Jackets) suchen die richtigen Partner on the Royal Green Jackets. They have now secured funding and procured uniforms and accoutrements exactly matching the RGJ uniforms silver bugles, rifle caps made in Turkey, George boots etc. etc. They are in the process of building up a music library centred on music of Rifle and DIE UNIFORMEN DIE INSTRUMENTE DAS WAPPEN Light Infantry regiments and would appreciate assistance from the current bands with copies or details of publishers to purchase music from. Neuss, Germany. Please let me know if you can help with any old For the first time, it should be an English brass RGJ band kit to donate especially the music. band (Styled on the Band and Bugles of the Royal Twenty of this newly formed band and bugles have Green jackets) in Neuss type. With this idea purchased tickets for the Albert Hall concert in October something unique would be available in the future which also demonstrates their commitment and for the shooting Clubs of Neuss Schutzenfest, as well as the enthusiastic audience. The right dedication to the project. So, the spirit of the RGJ lives partner for this musical project. on in Germany - from where some of our traditions and early recruits originated If we have made you curious, we are gladly available. I have done a rough translation of the text on the Further information can be found at attached poster which reads:www.qbbc.de On the 20.11.2011, a handful of musicians created
Neusser Bürger Schützenfest
a project, the concept previously did not exist in
Leigh Marshall
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Celle OPEN DAY BIDS TRENCHARD BARRACKS A FOND FAREWELL Over 2,000 people visited Trenchard Barracks in Celle on Saturday 30 June, for an Open Day hosted by outgoing unit 2nd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers (2 RRF). The gates of the barracks were opened to the local community as a gesture of goodwill and farewell before 2 RRF hands the barracks back to the Garrison upon their imminent departure to Cyprus.
Bn HQ and HQ Coy Block, Trenchard Bks.
The Garrison will in turn oversee the closure of Trenchard Barracks and its return to the host nation at the end of summer, ending the British Army’s association with the camp, dating back over sixty years. “It was a tremendous day,” said Lt Col Mike Butterwick, CO 2 RRF. “We were delighted to host those who have hosted us for 67 years, and we opened our doors to them as they have opened their community to us. To celebrate the historic day, a range of vehicles used by both 7th Armoured Brigade troops and those of the Bundeswehr (German Army) were arranged in static displays for civilians to view, in addition to performances given by the 2 RRF Corps of Drums and the Band of the Parachute Regiment. The afternoon was completed by a win for the 2 RRF side in the Anglo-German football match: although the teams were evenly matched, an early goal by the Germans was disallowed and the Fusiliers side charged to a 2-0 victory. Event organiser Maj Bruce Weston said, “The Open Day went well and was just what we wanted. The local community knows it’s our farewell week, and they are pleased to be given the opportunity to come in and have a look around - so many of them have driven past every day for years.” Frau Elke Schulte, a local Celle resident who came to the Open Day with her family, said: “It is sad that the British go. They are here a long time and we are good friends with them.” British Veterans from across
Germany also visited the open day festivities as part of their visit to Hohne Garrison, which hosted them as part of the annual Armed Forces Day celebrations that took place across the UK and BFG. Although Trenchard Barracks has closed its doors for the last time, 150 Garrison families will continue to be quartered in Celle in the current married quarter patch areas, and the camp’s legacy will live on in the community meeting place currently being developed in the patch, which will be called Trenchard House. “We’re sad to be leaving; we’ve been here for two
HM The Queen visits 3RGJ at Treanchard Bks on 24 May 1984.
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years now. Can’t wait to go to Cyprus though!” said Elaine Coulthard with 2 RRF, who brought children Kara, aged five, and three year old Kai along to enjoy the spectacle. In addition to the barracks, Mountbatten School - which has served British children since the 1950s and recently received the Arts Council of England’s Silver Artsmark award also closed its doors for the last time, marking the occasion with a special families’ BBQ on Tuesday 10 July, and the Medical and Dental Centres also closed for the last time. Jan Beckett, at Mountbatten School for 22 years and Barbara Titmarsh, who worked as a nurse in the Celle Medical Centre for over 20 years must be thanked for their dedication to over two decades of Celle-based families. The celebrations were a fitting tribute to the long-standing relationship between Trenchard Barracks, Mountbatten School and the local community. The Seeckt Barracks at Hohe Wende were renamed Trenchard Barracks by the British, named after Hugh Montague Trenchard, 1st Viscount Trenchard who was one of the founders of the Royal Air Force and rose to the rank of air marshal. He became an advocate for strategic bombing which did not
target troops, but the infrastructure of the enemy. Since he came from Taunton in the English county of Somerset, his name was something like a link between the barracks at Hohe Wende and the Heath Barracks. The British used the former German Nebel Barracks primarily as a base for infantry battalions. From 1948 to 1951 the 11th Signal regiment was stationed here, 1950 to 1952 the Rifle Brigade, from 1953 to 1955 the Sherwood Foresters, from 1955 to 1959 the Devonshire Regiment, from 1958 to 1961 the Gordon Highlanders, from 1961 to 1965 the Royal Irish Fusiliers, 1965 to 1968 the Royal Anglian Regiment, from 1968 onwards the 51 Security section of the Counterintelligence Service, 1968 to 1974 the Royal Green Jackets, 1974 to 1978 the Prince of Wales’s Own Regiment of Yorkshire, 1978 to 1982 again the Royal Anglian Regiment, from 1982 to 1987 the Royal Green Jackets once more, 1987 to 1996 the Royal Anglian Regiment again, from 1996 to 2007 the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, 2007 to 2010 once more and for the last time the Royal Anglian Regiment, and finally since 2010 the Royal Fusiliers. Article taken from local publications supplied by Birgit and Bob Wright.
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GPMG Jungle Carrying Trials, November 1963 by Peter Thomson By November 1963 the Regiment’s operational emphasis was changing. The Brunei Revolt was essentially over and the Indonesian Confrontation had begun. ‘C’ Company’s platoons were deployed in remote locations and administered from Company Headquarters at Marudi, Sarawak. The replacement of the Bren gun with the Belgian MAG 60-20 (GPMG) as the infantry light machine gun was well underway at this time. Manuals had been written and the Small Arms School Corps was teaching the gun at its training centres at Hythe and Kota Tinggi.
to be carried with the gun on the trials. It was the first time the team had worked with a belt fed weapon and there was initial enthusiasm for it. After a day of gun familiarisation we began walking up and down the two-mile stretch of metalled road beyond the camp to where it ended abruptly in the jungle. The team rapidly lost their initial enthusiasm for the GPMG. It was heavier and more cumbersome than the Bren and they preferred magazines to belts of ammunition. After two days of road marches we began taking top cover catch
muzzle with flash hider
carrying handle (used to remove barrel when hot)
foresight
rear sight
feed arm barrel nut
firing pin
roller
buffer assembly
link
gas regulator
gas block gas vent
sling point
spring compression washers
gas plug
piston
firing chamber receiver
safety catch
ejection opening cover return spring
bipod
butt catch
cocking lever
bipod retainer
locking shoulder sear tripper
sear and trigger spring trigger
The MAG Machine Gun A Belgian 7.62 mm general-purpose machine gun, designed in the early 1950s at Fabrique Nationale (FN). It has been used by more than 80 countries, and it has been made under licence the United Kingdom. The weapon's name is an abbreviation for Mitrailleuse d'Appui Général, meaning general-purpose machine gun (GPMG). The MAG is available in three primary versions: the standard, infantry Model 60-20 machine gun, the Model 60-40 coaxial machine gun for armoured fighting vehicles and the Model 60-30 aircraft variant.
After exhaustive tests the SASC required one final piece of information. How well does the gun work in the jungle theatre? In particular, is the feed mechanism adversely affected by the accumulated filth it will inevitably acquire in jungle operational conditions? The Regiment was asked to find out and the task subsequently delegated to ‘C” Company at Marudi. There were many who knew of the gun at that time, but few who had actually trained on it and fired it. Additionally, manpower was at a premium. None could be drawn away from the rifle platoons and a small team of ‘volunteers’ was formed from HQ personnel. I had trained on the gun at Kota Tinggi that July and was seconded to the project. We had been sent a gun complete with enough disintegrating links to make up a belt of 23 rounds
the gun into the jungle. We began with easier stretches over short hikes and built up over a week to longer forays that would keep us out overnight. The team was made up of Headquarters personnel that had led sedentary lives in comparison to those in the rifle platoons. These training runs also served also to acclimatize the men again to jungle conditions. The first major outing took us to a longhouse on the Sungei Baram, twelve miles or so North and West of Marudi. We went through streams, rain forest, bamboo, and the intense undergrowth of secondary jungle, slopes, hills and a little marshland. And reacquainted ourselves with the bite of leeches, the sting of red ants and that clinging bramble, aptly named ‘wait-awhile’. (To be con nued on next page)
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We were warmly welcomed at the longhouse where we stayed overnight. The Iban showed a keen interest in the gun. I recall their boyish delight when we let them lie down behind the gun to cock and trigger the mechanism – unloaded, of course! Next morning we returned to HQ by the same route. After a day to recover, it was time for the last and longer trek. The planned route went beyond where we had just been and further inland: into what was said to be hostile jungle and therefore ideal for these trials. The trip would take us 3-days to accomplish. There was no more information. No westerners had walked there before, as all communications were undertaken by river craft. There were only tracks through the jungle and where the ground was too soft for tracks; the Iban natives had felled trees end to end in the direction of travel to make walkways above the swamp. These are remarkable examples of primitive engineering since they had only basic hand cutting tools and no formal education. The first night of the big outing took us back to the longhouse where we had stayed earlier. We were again warmly welcomed. When we left next morning, heading for our next destination at Rumah Ridan longhouse, one villager insisted by grunts, gestures and signs that he would lead us there. Under his guidance we set off to where we could wade across the Baram river and turn north and west towards Rumah Ridan: a full day’s march ahead. Our troubles began immediately and our jaws dropped as we saw ahead of us the most evil smelling, green and black, spooky looking swamp; where insects swarmed and methane bubbles broke its surface with a distinctive ‘plop’. Our guide led us a little way south to a native walkway. ‘Rumah Ridan’ he said with a huge grin and pointed along the lengths of felled trees laid in our direction of travel. We climbed aboard this sky-track a metre or so above the surface of the mess below. Our guide had cut ten-foot lengths of poles from the undergrowth and gave each of us one to keep our balance on the track and we set off. He indicated that we should hurry as it we had far to go before nightfall. Inevitably we all fell off the walkway into the filthy bog sooner or later. This often happened where one log ended and the next began; particularly if the next log was of
a different size or slightly offset so that more than a direct stepping off from the one to the other was needed. Hemmings, our signaler, fell off more frequently than the rest of us. He carried the A41 radio set and soon became fed up with the adventure. Progress was very slow. We lost time pulling fallen, swamp encrusted souls, back onto the walkway. Darkness falls very quickly beneath the tree canopy of the rain forest where it is little better than twilight during the daytime anyway. The guide was worried that we would not make Rumah Ridan before darkness fell. The prospect of spending a night on the walkway or sitting in the swamp below was very real. We pressed on and luck was with us. We reached the longhouse just before night closed in. Our guide left us immediately, to go home the way we had come, in the darkness and on his own. A remarkable man indeed!
Iban tribesman who became our guide on the last leg of the major outing to Rumah Ridan. Playing with the gun in the Ionghouse at Sungei Baram. He was a natural!
Never were we so glad to get out of that swamp. Next morning we were feeling the aches and pains of our tumbles and physical exertions of the day before. It was tempting to stay at Rumah Ridan longer to recover. The Iban villagers were very hospitable. They had no material wealth or education, but rate as one of the happiest people I have met in my life. It was tempting to stay, but we were expected back at HQ that evening. We could not send a message to say we would be late as the swampsaturated radio was now useless. Our failure to arrive on time would initiate a search for us. (To be con nued on next page)
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We hoped for an easier day’s march. Our route had been well chosen. There was no swamp, but the terrain was no less arduous than before. The march took us up and down a succession of steep ridges covered in varying types of jungle. Each ridge bottom ended in a small stretch of boggy ground and a stream through which we waded. The ridges were too long to walk around their contours. Climbing and descending each was necessary. This took its toll on all of us physically. The GPMG proved a cumbersome, heavy and off-balancing weapon in this terrain. Eventually we descended the last ridge to flat ground and easier walking through rain forest with little or no undergrowth to hamper us. Then we saw the end of the metalled road that led to HQ ahead of us! It was over! The gloom and despondency of the team was replaced with good humour, smiles and banter prevailed. We stopped for a final brew and brush up before the last trek to camp. Our team consisted of Riflemen Miles and Hemmings, Cpl Arthur Munger, two others and myself. I am disappointed that memory prevents me naming two of them after this time
We marched smartly back into camp in single file and were surprised to see the Regimental flag flying at half-mast. We learned from CSM ‘Doc’ Kempster that President Kennedy had been assassinated in Dallas the day before. It was November 23rd. It is said that if you were around on that day, you would always know where you were at that time. It’s certainly true in our case. The 2i/c debriefed us extensively and ribald were some of the comments made by the team. ‘Why do we need a gun that can put down a cone of fire at 800 yards when you can’t see more than three feet ahead of you in the jungle?’ ‘They found the Lee-Enfield rifle too long for the jungle and cut it down to make the EY rifle. This thing’s even bigger than a Lee-Enfield.’ The besieged officer looked to me and asked. ‘Isn’t there anything good you can say about it for jungle work?’ ‘It’s very popular with the Iban natives sir,’ I replied with a grin. But the irony was lost on him. He thanked us and the team was officially disbanded. The others resumed their duties at Company HQ and I rejoined 10 platoon, somewhere in the Sarawak jungle.
Peter Thomson joined the Regiment (1GJ, 43rd & 52nd) in Penang in June 1962 from the Merchant Navy via basic training at Bushfield Camp, Winchester. He served in Penang, Borneo, Winchester, Berlin, Cyprus and Tidworth and left the Regiment in June1968. After a year working for a financial services company he rejoined the Merchant Navy and qualified as a Master Mariner. Peter commanded various ship types including container and chemical ships and Very Large Crude Carriers. He quit the sea in 1999 to work for Kalashnikov USA in Florida. He returned to UK and worked in various procurement, sales and marketing roles until his retirement in 2009 and now lives with his wife in rural France. Peter is currently working on publishing a book, Shades of a Soldiers in the Sixties, from which this article is a short version of one of its chapters.
Recruiting Canine Hero’s for The Army Military working dogs provide valuable capability to British patrols on the front line. But procurement by DE&S begins many miles from Afghanistan. They may be man's best friend, but nowhere is that more true than on the front line of Afghanistan, where they are proving their worth saving a host of lives. Military working dogs have seen their profile rise as they become more successful in sniffing out threats
to British forces on patrol in Helmand province. Dog handlers are specialists; so are the members of the team charged with procuring them. It's not just a case of popping down to the local dogs' home for an animal which will eventually have to work in the sand and dust of Afghanistan. The five-strong team took on the task of bringing greater coherence to the procurement and
support of dogs across Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) a couple of years ago: "We all worry every day about all things 'dog'," said programme manager Lieutenant Colonel Mike Purnell of the Force Protection Delivery Team. Members now scour the globe, talking to specialist companies, choosing suitable dogs, concluding contracts, and putting support networks into place.
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RIFLES AT SOUTHPORT ARMED FORCES DAY As the Nation gave support to Armed Forces Day on 30th June, Southport on Merseyside also contributed with a weekend Show of Military and Civilian displays, both in an arena and also static. Attending were The Rifles Recruiting Team and they had a continuous queue of enquiries from members of the public giving them support.
The Show was a true Armed Forces event as TA Volunteer Units also contributed and some of them together with three of the RIFLES Team, Rifleman Jamie Smith, L/Cpl's Lee Wall and Daniel Worthington (left and right in the front row) joined the Welsh Horse ' Yeomanry ' display for a photograph taken by Roy Bevan.
Those were the days - June 1965 Bob Smith sent a photo with the following story: A comfortable settee in the dormitory, air conditioning, interior sprung mattresses and the temperature on deck nearly 100° Fahrenheit. That is "trooping" the modern way as these three happy looking soldiers of 3rd Green Jackets found out. The 3rd Green Jackets, have just completed jungle training and are on their way to Borneo to fight the Indonesian Border Terrorists in Sarawak in the Army's new Logistic Landing Ship "Sir Lancelot".
Left to right:Rifleman George Georgiades, whose mother and father live at 62, Danville Road, Campbell Green, London SI, Rifleman Robert Smith, whose wife, Mrs A Smith, lives at 3 Hi Beach Road, Felixstowe and Rifleman James Hinds, whose parents, Mr and Mrs Cyril Edwards, live at 36 Buchan Road, Peckham, London.
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Soldiers on Salisbury Plain celebrate historical discovery An award-winning project using archaeology to aid the recovery of soldiers injured on Operation HERRICK has concluded its success on Salisbury Plain with an astonishing treasure trove of Anglo-Saxon finds.
Private Harry Buxton excavates the body of an Anglo-Saxon woman [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2012]
Soldiers taking part in 'Operation Nightingale' unearthed a major sixthcentury burial site at Barrow Clump, uncovering 27 bodies - including Anglo-Saxon warriors - buried with a range of personal possessions. Artefacts uncovered included shield bosses, broaches, amber and glass beads, spear heads, a silver ring, and a wooden drinking vessel with bronze bands. The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) worked with The Rifles to create the project, which helps soldiers injured in Afghanistan return to their regiment or prepare for civilian life. It also helps the Ministry Of Defence fulfil its statutory obligations. DIO's Senior Historic Advisor, Richard Osgood said: "The project has been a huge success and represents a significant archaeological find. The Bronze Age and Anglo Saxon burial ground is relatively small and we expected to uncover around 15 graves, but instead have unearthed 27. "Archaeologically, the really exciting thing is that because of the variety of artefacts found by soldiers working on Operation Nightingale, any future student wanting to study the sixth century of Wessex will have to refer to Barrow Clump. This is thanks to the hard work of the soldiers from the British Army."
Co-directed by Richard Osgood and Sgt Diarmaid Walshe, of Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC), the project draws in assistance from partners including English Heritage, Wessex Archaeology and the Army's survey unit, 135 Geographical Squadron, to help deliver the programme. Operation Nightingale recently received a special award from the British Archaeological Awards in recognition of its innovative use of archaeological work to boost the recovery and career prospects of military personnel injured in Afghanistan.
Rifleman Mike Kelly, 1 RIFLES, with an Anglo-Saxon gold leaf button broach discovered on the site. [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2012]
Rifleman Mike Kelly from 1 RIFLES said: “I never imaged that we would uncover such amazing artefacts. I discovered a warrior that had been buried with his shield placed across his face, which I believe to be a sign of respect. “I have been to war myself and I can imagine what the soldier would have felt as he went into battle. Knowing that as a modern day warrior I have unearthed the remains of another, fills me with an overwhelming sense of respect.” The project gives soldiers the opportunity to learn a series of excavation, land survey, drawing and mapping techniques and also enhancing their publication and presentation skills. Eight soldiers are
moving on to study archaeology at Leicester University, thanks to the programme. The project also helps build a sense of worth and purpose for participants through learning new skills and building on team-working and social skills. One of the soldiers’ early discoveries was the remains of a sixth-century Anglo-Saxon female. ‘Davina’, as they named the woman, was believed to have died in her late teens to early 20s. Artefacts unearthed at Barrow Clump will finally be laid to rest in Wiltshire Heritage Museum, in Devizes.
Adult male grave with drinking vessel and spear on top of it. [Picture: Crown Copyright/MOD 2012]
Rowan Kendrick, from 5 RIFLES said: “My best subject at school was History and I really enjoyed school trips to museums, I cant believe that when I visit the Wiltshire heritage museum I will be looking at artefacts that I have found.” David Dawson, Director of Wiltshire Heritage Museum in Devizes said: “We hope to be able to put the artefacts on permanent display in a new Anglo Saxon gallery. In the meantime, we are looking to feature these wonderful and amazing discoveries in an exclusive exhibition, some time in the near future.”
An Estate and Environment news article 6 August 2012
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The McMullan Collection John Davis-McMullan, better known as `Johnny Mac` within the Association and more particularly so by former members of 3GJ and 3RGJ circa 1958 to 1980, has lived in Virginia, USA for many years. scope has been fitted to complete the sporting conversion. John`s enthusiasm for his collection is only matched by my own feelings of sheer envy that he is able to own such a collection through the relaxed firearms laws in the USA. When posted to Germany during my time with 3 and 1 RGJ, 1967 – 1974, I collected a couple of pistols of my own; one of which was a 9mm Browning Hi-Power but when the move back to the UK became inevitable I investigated the procedures for legally importing my pistols and very quickly discovered that I would be well advised not to bother and subsequently sold the two pistols I owned.
John Davis-McMullan
Like most of us who grew up surrounded by guns in our youth he has a very healthy respect as well as a fascination for them and in recent years has dedicated himself to fulfilling his ambition to acquire a very comprehensive firearms collection. This collection is not being put together as a result of the biggest, the most powerful or the most desirable but instead is aimed at John owning every rifle that has been issued to the Regiment since 1800. The latest rifle on his purchase list is the FN, which was issued to the RB in Kenya and Malaya for evaluation during the mid to late 50’s. It has not yet, to my knowledge, been added to his collection though I predict that it will not be long in coming. With so many to choose from and no legal restrictions John has occasionally gone for something slightly outside of the regimental collection he is aiming for and one such addition purchased is a No 4 Lee Enfield .303 Mk1 that has been `Sportified` as pictured here. It can be seen in the photographs sent to me by John that the original woodwork furniture has been replaced by a reshaped plastic variety and a
I and most people that I know would not like to see the same relaxed firearms laws that exist in the United States of America applied here in the UK but it could be argued that the current restrictions are much too strict and now penalise everyone through a series of knee jerk reactionary measures and laws brought in by various political parties as a method of appeasing public outrage in response to isolated incidents involving the use of firearms. In most cases the incidents responsible involved unlicensed weapons and no matter how many restrictions a succession of governments may bring in there will always be a black market in illegal firearms if you know where to get them and the present laws or any likely to be enforced in the future cannot stop that happening but will more likely cause an increase in the number of unregistered firearms in circulation.
Ken Ambrose
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A New Book
A Rendezvous With The Enemy: My Brother’s life and death with the Coldstream Guards in Northern Ireland Published by Helion & Company
About the book As a Section Commander in one of the British Army’s toughest Infantry regiments, Darren Ware spent a decade with the Royal Green Jackets and fought a vicious border war with the Provisional IRA in Northern Ireland. In the 80s and 90s Northern Ireland was a bloody battleground that claimed the lives of hundreds of soldiers. Shortly after joining the army he was sent to Northern Ireland days after he turned 18 and in the prime of his life was sent to confront terrorists. Within 18 months of returning from his first tour he was sent back to Northern Ireland, this time on his 20th birthday, to be confronted with the aftermath of a terrorist attack on the day he arrived and a two year tour of operations and close encounters that followed. He was awarded a Mention in Despatches in 1992 having disrupted a terrorist attack in Strabane. But, it was in the sniper-strewn streets of the cities and fields of the countryside of the border region that he began a journey that would make a man of him - in the staunch IRA stronghold of South Armagh - ‘Bandit Country’ - where his brother’s life was taken in a massive unpredicted terrorist attack in 1991. At the time, his brother Simon was serving with the Coldstream Guards. The murder of Simon by the IRA reinforced his determination to continue his commitment to serve in Northern Ireland and to assist the RUC in the defeat of terrorism in killing or capturing the terrorists, which he achieved with success in 1992. In 1998 a change in operational commitment led the author to pursue a career elsewhere and Darren Ware is now a Police Firearms Officer dealing with armed and violent offenders on the front line. If you want to know the first-hand devastating effect that the IRA terrorists had on a young soldier and his family, fighting for answers and justification, then read this book. The author reflects on his experiences in Northern Ireland, and recounts his brother’s life, and death at the hands of the IRA. A Rendezvous with the Enemy will introduce you to the life of a professional soldier, the operational experience in Northern Ireland and above all, it will lead you along the road to death and the effects of unjustified terrorist murder in Northern Ireland.
About the Author Darren Ware was born in Enfield, North London in 1971 and was educated at St George’s Roman Catholic Primary School and St Ignatius College. He left home at the age of 16 and joined the army, where he served with the 2nd Battalion The Royal Green Jackets for 10 years, almost three years of which was served in Northern Ireland where he was awarded a Mention in Despatches for distinguished service. Darren also served on operations in Cyprus and Bosnia. He conducted various training exercises worldwide and was an instructor of Infantry weapons and tactics, a Gunnery Instructor and Nuclear Biological and Chemical Warfare instructor for seven and a half years, and also trained recruits for two and a half years in 1993. He left the army in 1997 as a Corporal, after a successful career and joined the police service. He now serves on the Armed Response Unit full time and is a reserve helicopter observer on the Air Support Unit. He has three children and lives in Lancashire. Darren Ware’s contact details: Tel: 07879 464 778 e-mail: danware1597@sky.com
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.. advance the education of the children & young people of Nepal ... in particular, through the building of Schools and other educational facilities & the provision of educational material, tutors, scholarships and other grants ... and finally, the relief of young people who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress" Child Education Nepal UK was established in 2007 and is a small, new charity looking to make a difference. What makes this charity different from nearly any other is that every penny donated goes to the children of Nepal, there are no administration costs. Nepal is still one of the poorest countries in the world and this is not down to war or lack of effort but purely down to lack of resources. Nepal is however one of the UK closest allies and that is why CENUK choose to help in the education of children. Education is the only true way out of poverty. During a visit in October 2011 to Ashrang in the Gorkha district (the ancestoral home of the British Ghurkas) and still the centre of recruitment, CENUK undertook to help fund three specific projects as well as continue to support schools refurbishments.
Royal Green Jacket veteran has visited Ashrang several times over the last few years and has forged friendships with local Ghurka veterans and now feels your support would be invaluable. We are also pursuing our goal of providing education for every child and not base it on the ability to pay. To enable us to provide urgently needed funding for these projects, CENUK will be holding a charity dinner and auction at Anfield, Liverpool Football Club on 9 November 2012. The auction will be conducted by Mr Charles Hanson of TV fame along with top class entertainment. Entry will be by ticket only at a cost of ÂŁ60 per person. Any assistance big or small, in whatever form would be greatly appreciated as we acknowledge that times are difficult in the current climate.
Project 1 will be to build a Health Post with 17 beds to provide much needed medical care to over 5500 villagers. This Health Post will be the major centre for the district, the nearest other health care is over 3 hours drive. Project 2 will be to provide running water to over 1000 homes and 6 schools within the immediate vicinity. Homes must install toilets inside the house to gain access to the running water. Project 3 is to build a new primary school on the village outskirts to provide education for 50 under 10 year olds. This school will help ease the hour walk the children face at the moment. Due to our strong links with the British Army and specifically the Ghurkas, CENUK will also be supporting the Soldiers Charity. Three of the charity trustees have an accumulated service of over 50 years, serving with the Ghurkas in Malaya, Germany, Falklands and UK. In fact, Ghurkas veterans from World War 2 still live in the village of Ashrang. Mr Arnie (Jimmy) Steele, Trustee, 2nd Battalion the
You can make a difference Trustees: Philip Fluck Joanne Casswell-Fluck Arnie & Cindy Steele 13 Dawpool Drive, Bromborough, Wirral CH62 6DE www.cenuk.org (To be con nued on next page)
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(Con nued from previous page)
AUCTION LOTS (as at 15 July 2012) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Authentic Stephen Gerrard Liverpool No. 8 Shirt signed by all 2011/2012 first team players with certificate. Wolverhampton Wanderers Authentic Shirt signed by all 2011/2012 first team players. Real Madrid Shirt – Xabi Alonso ex-Liverpool player with certificate. Authentic Blackburn Rovers Shirt signed by all 2011/2012 first team players. Joe Hart – signed England goalkeeping jersey worn by Joe in a match versus Spain in 2011. Authentic Middlesborough Shirt signed by all 2011/2012 first team players. Authentic Tim Cahill signed Everton Shirt. Signed football by Tranmere Rovers FC including the only John Barnes signature known. Voucher to visit Leicester FC. Voucher for family of 4 to visit and tour Liverpool FC. 16 day holiday to Everest Base Camp for two people including flights, accommodation in Kathmandu and trek, food on the trek, porters and guides (dates open). Holiday to Nepal for two people for 10 days sight-seeing including a trip to see the charity project (dates open). Holiday for up to 2 adults and 2 children skiing in Austria includes hotel HB, ski hire, ski pass and airport transfers (Jan – Apr 2013). Genuine Moonstone Jewellery matching Bracelet, Necklace and Earrings from Nepal. Holiday for 2 Adults and 2 Children (4 in total) to Costa Del Sol, Spain for 7 nights, accommodation only, two bedrooms two bathroom apartment with views from the hills over the Mediterranean Sea. Available Feb/March/April/Oct or Nov 2013. Sky News Studio Tour with Dermot Murnaghan in London. Track Day with Jaguar. Track Day at Silverstone. 40 year of bottle of Malt Whiskey. A one year membership to the Elite racing club.
A raffle will be held during the evening for smaller donations including, £50 Next voucher, Beauty Voucher to the value of £30.00 plus many more.
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PDSA Dickin Medal, ‘Tich’, 1st Battalion, The King’s Royal Rifle Corps During the Second World War, PDSA’s founder Maria Dickin CBE was aware of incredible bravery displayed by animals on active service and the Home Front. Inspired by the animals devotion to man and duty in 1943 she introduced a medal specifically for animals in war. Since the introduction of the Medal it has been awarded to 28 dogs, 32 World War II messenger pigeons, three horses and one cat. The Dickin Medal is a large, bronze medallion bearing the words “For Gallantry” and “We Also Serve” all within a laurel wreath. The ribbon is striped green, dark brown and pale blue representing water, earth and air to symbolise the naval, land and air forces. During the fighting in Italy Rifleman Walker, a ‘medic’, was awarded the MM for a number of actions in which he either rescued or tended to injured men while under fire. On every occasion Tich remained by his side, being wounded on a number of occasions, once very seriously. News reports described Tich as the brave dog of an outstandingly brave man. In recommending Tich for the Dickin Medal, the Commanding Officer of 1 KRRC, Lieutenant-Colonel E.A.W. Williams MC, wrote: ‘Her courage and devotion to duty were of very real and considerable value and her courageous example materially helped many men to keep their heads and sense of proportion in times of extreme danger. The sight of her put heart in the men as she habitually rode on the bonnet of her master’s jeep and refused to leave her post even when bringing in wounded under heavy fire.’ The award of the PDSA Dickin Medal to Tich ‘for loyalty, courage and devotion to duty under hazardous conditions of war 1941 to 1945, was announced on 1 July 1949. In September Tich was presented with the Medal at the Star Dog Tournament at the Empire Pool, Wembley.
In Memoriam Blunden, Maj GF Chesterman, Lt AR KIA Compton-Lowe, Derrick Coughlan, Patrick Hircock, Keith House, DG Lt Gen Sir Howkins, Gary Kno , Peter Lawless, Maj Peter Marsh, Ron McCoy, Alan Nixon, Tom Peck, Geoff Shedden, Mar n Williams, Maj D Willie, David
Rest in Peace
18 June 9 Aug 12 June 5 July July 14 July 22 July 5 Sept 17 Aug 2 Sept 26 June June July June 11 Aug July
Obituaries Please be aware that our publications, Swift and Bold and the E-Zine carry brief details of all those members of the regiment who have died regardless of circumstances. Deceased members of the former regiments and The Rifles are included within the published Obituary lists. The degree of detail shown in both Swift and Bold and the E-Zine is limited by the space available and only brief details are posted but with direct links, as is the case with the E-zine or, as in the case of The Swift and Bold Journal, the Internet address showing where the full details can be seen on the web site Bulletin Board at http://63196.activeboard. com/forum.spark?forumID=63196. All such occurrences, even those with the briefest of details, are recorded on the Association database. The amount of information available on a deceased member of the regiment is also dependent on the information received about the individual concerned from those people who knew him taking the time to add their memories and condolences to his entry on the In Memoriam Board.