Page 49 - MERCIAN Eagle 2022

Machine Gun Platoon – Ex ASKARI STORM 2022
Capt Whimster
2022 saw 2 MERCIAN return to Kenya,
this time as the opposing force (codename: Task Force Hannibal) for the 1 PWRR Battlegroup. In order to fit the requirements of the challenge, and to conform to OPFOR doctrine, 2 MERCIAN’s Support Weapon elements re-orbatted for the exercise.
This saw the formation of two Manoeuvre Support Groups (MSGs), one each held
at Company-level, comprising a section each of Machine Guns and Anti-tanks,
plus a Mortar Fire Controller (MFC). The Machine Gunners relished the opportunity to try something new and used the
chance to learn tactics, techniques and procedures from our Anti-tank and Mortar colleagues. Some members also enjoyed the opportunity to test Light Mechanised
tactics, utilising DShK machine guns atop Toyota Hiluxes – a potent mobile fire support platform.
Kenya brings a whole host of special challenges, many of which cannot be replicated in the UK. The hot, dry climate, punctuated by infrequent but powerful downpours of rain and flash flooding, can test any soldier’s resolve. Furthermore,
the wildlife impacted practically every
single soldier; nothing disrupts a carefully concealed night time approach route into an FUP more than a herd of aggressive water buffalo or a family of elephants! Every person quickly learnt the value of daily checking their boots and sleeping bag for creepy crawlies.
Donning the trademark blue uniform
of Task Force Hannibal, the Machine Gunners set about using their new tactics, unconstrained by Western rules of engagement or codes of conduct.
As a free-thinking force, they employed unconventional tactics, including IEDs, civilian dress and concealing themselves within civilian populations to surprise, frustrate and ultimately test the soldiers of 1 PWRR. The more out-of-the-box and unexpected the attack, the greater the training benefit to the exercising troops,
forcing them to encounter new situations and consider different approaches to problems.
For several of DRAGON Company’s newer members, this was their first major overseas exercise. Ptes Douglas, Latimer, Ngonda, Smith and Watkins all rose to
the challenge, demonstrating impressive resilience and physical robustness. Some more experienced Ptes were able to mentor their colleagues and step-up into Section 2I/C roles; well done to Ptes Hudson and Jikoduadua, both of whom were recognised with CO’s coins at the end of the exercise. Finally, recognition goes also to LCpls
Hoyte and Sheridan, both stepping-up into Section Commander roles, working directly to their Rifle Coy OC, often at significant reach and with minimal support. Their ability to work to intent, provide clear and succinct information feeds and manage their teams effectively played no small part in the Battalion’s success on this exercise.
Mortar Platoon
Over the past few months, the gradual lifting of COVID and a reduction in OP RESCRIPT commitments has allowed
the platoon to return to its primary role – providing the Battalion with a well-trained, capable Mortar Platoon.
In October we welcomed nine new soldiers from Catterick and the Rifle Companies. The platoon delivered a mortar numbers cadre to train the platoon in all aspects of operating and tactical employment of the 81mm medium mortar. The cadre was conducted
over 6 weeks and ran from Warcop Training Camp, broken down into 4 weeks initial teaching phase coupled with some progressive and challenging fitness sessions run by the platoon’s PTI, Cpl Silvers. Before moving onto the demanding and challenging confirmation exercise, we finished with an excellent week of live firing, both day and night. This re-qualified existing members, but more importantly integrated nine new members to the mortaring community. The cadre presented an excellent
opportunity for the platoon to show off the strength it has in both junior and senior NCOs.
Alongside the Mortar cadre, Sgt Stafford took the initiative to run a comprehensive executive’s cadre designed to prepare and select the JNCOs before the selected individuals attend the mortar standards course later in the year with the goal of becoming the next generation of Mortar fire controllers. This led to a successful high pass rate for the students that went down to the Specialist Weapons School, now known as the Combined Arms Manoeuvre School (CAMS). LCpl’s Cudworth, Sundas and Pun Magar became qualified Mortar Fire controllers and instructors.
Following a well-earned period of
Christmas leave, Mortar Platoon returned to Weeton in good order and elements ready to deploy to Kenya in support of Ex ASKARI STORM permanent range team. The hard work of the Mortar Platoon in the build-up to deployment meant the soldiers from mortar platoon deployed forward in good order to support the live firing CALFEX and exercise for the 1 PWRR battlegroup. Once again this was an opportunity for the platoon to display the high quality
in both Junior and senior NCOs in the platoon. Having returned to Weeton the Platoon has now firmly switched focus
to showing the proud Mercian spirit in the upcoming Freedom parades and the final few months of 2 MERCIAN before its amalgamation.
OC Mortars Capt Darkings 2IC Mortars WO2 Senior
THE MERCIAN EAGLE
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