Page 69 - RAPTC 23/24

First Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers (1 RRF) have had a demanding year that has seen
multiple deployments and training exercises both overseas and in the UK. Coupled with the announcement to re-role from Warrior to the new Boxer platform, they are firmly at the forefront of armoured capability.
On initial arrival to 1 RRF, I was greeted by some familiar faces from a past assignment (2011-2014) pre-transfer to the RAPTC. My initial intent was to fully integrate into the Unit and its people and with a deployment to Estonia for the majority only a matter of weeks away, this afforded me the perfect opportunity.
Pre-deployment I was tasked to assist with the annual Hart’s Boxing Event which would be the final opportunity for the Regiment to celebrate together before a busy period. A spectacle of an evening that showcased the finest talent on offer.
In Sep 23 First Fusiliers deployed on Op CABRIT 13 leading the Battle Group through a successful six-month winter tour. This deployment tested the Regiment operating in the harsh and unforgiving climatic conditions of Estonia whilst integrating with our NATO counterparts. In collaboration with 3 (UK) Div, Service Personnel (SP) across the Battle Group were afforded the opportunity to attend some fantastic Adventurous Training packages, from mountain biking to skiing and provided some well-deserved downtime. Before the busy hand over
SSgt (SSI) A Farr RAPTC
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FIRST BATTALION THE ROYAL REGIMENT OF FUSILIERS
period the Regiment hosted a NATO Boxing exhibition in Rakvere featuring 9 bouts of amateur boxers from the UK, France and United States Armed Forces. Attended by VIPs and soldiers from the participating nations, the event proved to be an incredible spectacle. The event emphasised NATO’s fighting spirit and unity through sport.
In the UK the rear operations group deployed X Company SP on Ex DIAMONDBACK to the deserts of California. This is one of the best infantry training exercises globally and continues to improve multinational interoperability.
1RRF BG NATO Boxing Exhibition
On reflection, this has been an outstanding year for the First Fusiliers that has provided both the Regiment and myself as an RAPTCI with some fantastic opportunities for growth and development.
1RRF BG personnel conducting Adventurous Training
SSgt (SSI) A Farr Delivering BG PT