Page 73 - RAPTC 23/24

5Force Support Battalion Royal Electrical Mechanical and Engineers (5 FS Bn REME) is based at MOD
Lyneham near Chippenham, Wiltshire, alongside 8 Training Battalion REME. In October 2023, I joined the Bn and it quickly became apparent that they had a diverse set of outputs, with the Electronic Counter Measures Platoon being deployed all over the world, Power Packs Company supplying the whole of 3 (UK) Division and the rest of the battalion participating in large-scale exercises.
As soon as I arrived at the battalion, we immediately embarked on Ex IRON TITAN 23. This emphasised the importance of physical training and readiness for large- scale exercises and operations. For the PT Staff, this meant ensuring that the battalion was physically conditioned and prepared for their role in an austere environment. As the exercise concluded, the PT staff organised a fancy-dress fun- run, with prizes for various categories. This event was well-received by all ranks and allowed everyone to participate in a collective challenge.
In addition to their work duties, the battalion has consistently demonstrated their competitive spirit and achieved excellence in a wide range of sporting events throughout the training year. These include Football, Rugby, Cross-Country, Nordic Skiing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The majority of the teams not only made it to the podium but also brought home trophies and medals, showcasing their remarkable performance.
From the start of 2024, the battalion has been preparing for Op LINOTYPER in Germany and Poland. This required a quick turnaround after the Christmas leave, but we were able to fully utilise the benefits of the APTS block periodisation in preparation for the deployment. Additionally, we have established strong Level 1 and 2 pathway to reintegrate serving personnel into mainstream physical training. Now that we are deployed, the serving personnel members are able to participate in AT activities
5 Bn Nordic Skiing Team
SSgt (SSI) O Dales RAPTC
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5 FORCE SUPPORT BATTALION REME
thanks to our convenient location next to Army Adventurous Training Wing (AATW) Harz in Sonnenberg.
SSgt (SSI) Dales receiving his Army colours
I have remained actively engaged in Martial Arts at both the Corps and Army levels, taking on various roles such as coaching, refereeing, and serving as a team secretary. It was a great privilege for me to organize the RAPTC Martial Arts OSV to Cyprus, and I was incredibly honoured to receive my Army Colours.
Throughout the rest of 2024, I am looking forward to leading and participating in more team events. I am committed to working closely with my PT Staff to ensure that we continue to deliver high- quality physical training that inspires and motivates all serving personnel within 5 Bn.
5 Bn & 148 Coy deployed on Ex IRON TITAN