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As I pause to reflect on my final year with the Micks, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, tinged with profound gratitude. This past year has been a whirlwind of preparing Service Personnel (SP) for deployments, State Ceremonial Public Duties and demanding exercises, which has marked the culmination of my time with this remarkable Battalion.
Among the myriad of challenges we tackled, one standout experience was our participation for Ex HARAKA STORM 23 in Kenya. Alongside our comrades from the Royal Anglian and the Grenadiers, SSgt (SSI) Morgan and I found ourselves immersed in the Acclimatisation Package.
However, our adventures didn’t end there as we embarked on unforgettable Adventurous Training (AT), pushing our boundaries and strengthening our bonds as a Unit. Whether scaling peaks or navigating rugged terrain, each moment served as a testament to the unbreakable camaraderie within the Micks.
Within the Household Division, I have spearheaded the implementation of a new annual competition - ‘The Miler Cup.’ This rigorous PT challenge, encompassing the renowned 2, 3, and 5 miler routes
Dodge Ball promotes movement for MHAW
SSgt (SSI) M Qasim RAPTC
1ST BATTALION IRISH GUARDS
in Pirbright, aimed not only to foster camaraderie but also to propel our personnel towards excellence and career advancement opportunities. Witnessing the Irish Guards emerge victorious filled me with immense pride and reaffirmed the dedication of our Battalion.
A Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) took centre stage in May. I seized
The Miler Cup Winners
the opportunity to deliver insightful tips on maintaining good mental health during Battalion PT sessions. From advocating regular exercise to emphasising the importance of social connections, each tip underscored the holistic approach to mental well-being. The theme for this year’s MHAW, ‘Movement,’ prompted us to promote physical activity with nightly sporting events at 1900hrs, including dodgeball, foot volleyball, hockey, yoga and walks.
As my tenure with the Micks draws to a close, I am humbled by the shared triumphs and challenges we’ve overcome. While bidding farewell to this esteemed Unit is bittersweet, I find solace in the enduring bonds forged here. Here’s to the Micks, and the indelible mark they’ve left on me - a testament to the strength of our collective spirit.
SSgt (SSI) M Qasim still testing his Gymnastic skills in Kenya
Team enjoying the Waterfalls
1IG attacking the hill in Pirbright