Page 50 - RAPTC 23/24

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The 23/24 TY for the Battalion has continued at an extremely fast pace, supported with a busy Forecast of Events (FoE) and the main emphasis continuing to be Operational Readiness. The Battalion saw various deployments all over the world and UK; most notably on Op INTERFLEX and A Coy deploying on Op CABRIT. In December 23, the Battalion once again changed Brigades; from a mechanised Infantry role within 12 Brigade to a brand-new Security Force Assistance (SFA) role within 11 Brigade. The main commitments for 24 will see the Bn complete our new role on a Battalion exercise to Kenya (Ex HARAKA SPEAR) and B Coy deploying on Ex EFES (Turkey).
Adventurous Training (AT) has been widely supported by the Battalion and across the AT spectrum. The Battalion completed a 3-week Type 2 package to Norwegian Lodge, Aviemore on Ex NORTHERN BUGLE 2 in May 23, and made the most of AT opportunities in Kenya on the back of Ex HARAKA SPEAR. A further UK-based Type 2 package in Kinlochleven, Scotland is scheduled for the Summer of 24. There have been several successful Type 3 expeditions taking place including Ex CARIBBEAN EXPRESS, Ex CANARY EXPRESS and Ex HIGHLAND EXPRESS and during the winter season Ex FROSTED BLADE 38, Ex NORTHERN SNOWBADGER XI, Ex SNOWJACK 24 and Ex NORDIC BUGLE. Type 4 has seen an increase in interest with courses being completed in Rock Climbing, Parachuting, Mountain Biking, Kayaking, and Sailing, adding to the wealth of experience the Battalion has with leader capability.
Work aside, sport is an important feature for 3 RIFLES and the Battalion has
3RD BATTALION THE RIFLES
SSgt (SSI) P Noble RAPTC
Malek Girls School – Community Engagement
continued to compete and excel within various sporting events throughout the training year, including British Army Warrior Fitness, Cross-Country, Football and Swimming, of which most teams achieved silverware.
The Cross-Country Team has represented at most British Army Scotland region events so far and fielded competitive male and female runners. The Football Team continues to improve and the squad again competing at all competitions that have been available, including the Army, Infantry and British Army in Scotland (BAS) leagues and cups. All competitions are well underway and into the latter stages, the team is confident of securing more silverware for the 23/24 season.
The Battalion understands the importance of Physical Development (PD) and consistently has this at the forefront of priorities, preparing our Riflemen for the tasks and commitments at hand.
Ex NORTHERN SNOWBADGER XI
Especially with the Battalion downsizing whilst still preparing for deployments within the new SFA role; it is vitally important that PD continues to challenge, prepare, and enhance our personnel across all ranks.
Spending almost three years in post, Battalion life continues to be well balanced and challenging. The RIFLES culture and ethos is unique, it has been a hugely rewarding opportunity and a pleasure to be a part of. I look forward to the remainder of my assignment into 2024.
“Swift & Bold”
Summiting Mt. Kenya
Maj Haley, SSgt Noble & Sgt Ward – BATUK FC