Page 5 - Bugle Autumn 2023

FOREWORD
FOREWORD
By The Colonel Commandant
Lieutenant General Tom Copinger-Symes CBE
This edition of The Bugle, like the previous one, highlights another busy six months for the Regiment. Our Battalions continue to play an integral part in the training of the Armed Forces of Ukraine; one is preparing to assume to the role of Regional Standby Battalion in Cyprus; others are training to ensure mounted and dismounted skills are honed for our core roles; we are leading the way in defining the RANGER capability; and are at the vanguard of how the Army Reserves conduct their business. It is
also the first edition since I took over from General Patrick as Colonel Commandant.
I would like to thank him publicly for his stewardship of the Regiment during his tenure, especially though the last Integrated Review, which he handled with great skill, tact, and courage. He delivered a better outcome for Defence and the Army, as well as The Rifles. General Patrick and I had an audience with HM The Queen at St James’s Palace, to officially mark the handover, where her affection for the Regiment and General Patrick was very evident. This role is an absolute honour and I’m delighted
to have the opportunity to serve my fellow Riflemen.
A major highlight this year was, of course, the Coronation. The marching contingent
from 1 RIFLES, accompanied by the Band and Bugles, was immaculate and demonstrated that we can (when we really need to) ‘do drill.’ Everyone on parade should be rightly proud that all the hard work came together on the day. We were also the first to wear our new cap badge, with the King’s Crown incorporated. This will be used on official publications from now on, and Riflemen will be issued one for their headdress and other accoutrements in due course.
Those serving in the Field Army and other parts of Defence will have no doubt felt the pace of life remain busy in the past months. Russia’s brutal and illegal attempt to invade Ukraine continues, and we remain steadfast in support of the Government of Ukraine. We have played a central role in training and equipping the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The care and attention of Riflemen, preparing others to go into action literally days after finishing their training, has been heart-warming. And it is making a difference
on the battlefield. This training and support will continue, and I have no doubt the next iterations will continue to receive the highest level of professionalism from those Riflemen involved.
I am buoyed that despite all this activity, we are still (just) able to find time to play sport, invest in wider hobbies, and conduct adventure training. But it’s getting increasingly hard to find space in the programme, and
the assurance regime with its associated processes can seem daunting at first. Nevertheless, I encourage all of you to seize any opportunities that present themselves - they are always worth the investment of time and effort and can be life-changing for our youngest Riflemen.
Beyond the Battalions, the wider regimental network goes from strength to strength. The annual RIFLES Cadet Cup will be running again this year. Sponsored by G Company 7 RIFLES, it will take place in Sennybridge at
the end of September, for both affiliated CCF
we are still (just) able to find time to play sport, invest
& ACF detachments. This is a key Regimental activity cementing the link between our Cadets and serving Riflemen. It’s hoped that up to 250 cadets will be taking part. The Always a Rifleman programme is making great strides under Baz Melia, and recently hosted a fantastic event at Silverstone. 5 and 6 Rifles took part in Exeter’s Armed Forces Day events, followed by receiving the Freedom
of Wellington (Somerset), both supported by strong veteran D&D and LI contingents. The connection to our regional roots remains vibrant and essential. The Rifles Great Northern Gathering in Newcastle on 26 Aug is the
next highlight, with details available on Swift (or you can register for a free ticket at www. theriflesnetwork.co.uk). It promises to be a memorable event.
in wider hobbies, and conduct adventure training
RIFLES The Bugle 5