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After completing assignments with 3 Field Force Units and a Training Establishment, it was finally time to be reunited with a plinth, TheraBand, DMICP and ‘the North.’ I returned to the rehabilitation world at RRU Catterick. As I have now left Hermitage, it would be remiss of me not to take the opportunity to sincerely thank the Gym Staff, Brigade HQ, Specialist Group Military Intelligence (SGMI), Land Intelligence Fusion Centre (LIFC) and Defence School of Geospatial Intelligence (DSGI) for their collaboration during my tenure.
Amidst transitions, including the departure of QMSI Roberts after 22 years of service, SSgt Haase adeptly served as the Regional Trade Specialist Adviser (RTSA). Despite personnel changes, we swiftly adapted, welcoming new team members while managing the departure of others. Within a 6-month period, the department would see the arrivals of a new OC, QMSI, ERI, Podiatrist and Administration Officer to take us to full strength, but we would also lose our 2IC to Op CABRIT for 4 months.
Once again, I had to ‘hit the ground running’ conducting RTSA visits to ensure
WO2 (QMSI) C Charles RAPTC
I knew where all the PCRFs were within region and be the ideal opportunity to introduce myself to the ERIs. The outgoing OC (Maj Greener) was great in facilitating this and often accompanied me on these visits, which meant the PCRFs had a familiar face in attendance. The northern rehabilitation establishments have seen several changes in personalities with PCRF Dishforth welcoming Sgt Hussell and Sgt McDonald moving to Brunei, SSgt Burns moving across to PCRF Catterick, Sgt Wharfe joins ITC and Sgt Kelsey to RRU Catterick.
Along with these visits, we were also handed the task of converting the RRU’s 3-week anatomical block courses to a 2 week rolling ‘generals’ course. The restructuring of the RRU’s courses was successfully completed after extensive collaboration, resulting in improved access for patients and increased attendance from higher-ranking personnel.
Additionally, I took on the role of Army North Football League Secretary, (a role that seems to follow me) revitalising football activities in the Region, which was well-received by all units. The officiating aspect is on the upward trajectory, having
WO2 (QMSI) Charles
recently been selected to referee at the Men’s Inter-Services, I am now aligned with the Professional Game Match Official Limited (PGMOL) sanctioned FA CORE X, with ex-Premier League Referee Mike Riley as my coach.
The supportive clinical and administrative team at RRU Catterick has made my return to the rehabilitation world a rewarding experience.
REGIONAL REHABILITATION UNIT (RRU) CATTERICK
Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor Mark Airey delivering a nutrition presentation WO2 (QMSI) Charles with ex-Premier League Referee Mike Riley post-match
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