Page 23 - Bugle Spring 2024

EX NORTHERN SNOWBADGER XI
In the crisp alpine air of Tignes, France,
Ex NORTHERN SNOWBADGER XI unfolded
as a spectacular skiing expedition.
This memorable trip, embraced by 85 participants of all ranks, showcased a blend of skill, camaraderie, and adventure.
The expedition, led by 3RIFLES, saw the inclusion of soldiers from 2SCOTS and 2RIFLES, adding to the diversity of this snow-clad adventure. The 40 novice skiers, fuelled by enthusiasm, displayed remarkable progress throughout the week, transforming into confident skiers on the challenging slopes of Tignes.
While the novice skiers excelled,
the intermediate skiers faced their own challenges. They were put through their paces off-piste and an introduction to ski touring in the forests of Le Fornet. These demanding experiences pushed their skills to new heights, further developing their skiing fundamentals.
Teams of advanced skiers, completing
Ski Foundation 3, conducted an ambitious, overnight ski tour to Refuge de la Leisse,
a remote and tricky-to-access mountain
hut. They navigated the challenging terrain with precision, whilst developing their understanding of avalanches and other mountain hazards, showcasing not only their skiing prowess but also their ability to conquer the rugged alpine landscape.
What made this adventure truly special was the shared experience of staying overnight at Refuge de la Leisse. Nestled in isolation, this mountain refuge provided a unique backdrop for bonding. The advanced skiers, ever resourceful, brought along a fondue kit, turning the mountain refuge into an impromptu venue for a cheese fondue evening. For one night only, the bare mountain hut was transformed into the site for a unique alpine feast.
Each participant of Ex NORTHERN SNOWBADGER XI admirably faced the challenges of the week’s arduous training. Skiers of all levels displayed the determination we expect of Riflemen, making great leaps in their skiing and acquiring the expertise to take forward on the next expedition.
Lt Alex Wilson
Setting out for a day of ski touring
3 RIFLES
3 RIFLES RE-ROLE TO SFA
In late July we received the implementation order for
our re-role to a Security Force Assistance battalion and immediately started working through the detail on how many Riflemen we would need to relocate due to down-sizing. We also looked at how we could best inform the Battalion of the required changes and provide the necessary detail to enable Riflemen to make informed decisions. We conducted a series of planning session across Edinburgh and North Yorkshire
as the Battalion was deployed on Op INTERFLEX, this was followed by a series of briefs delivered by the CO, RSM and RCMO.
The number of troops who will be required to move is circa 110, that along with natural churn would get us down to our new ORBAT of 301 all ranks. Every Rifleman, LCpl and Cpl was required to submit a posting preference which was considered at the SFA role employment boards. We managed to fill the new structures with those who wanted to remain in 3 RIFLES while allowing almost 95% of Rfn to get their first preference. This will see Riflemen moving to their preferred location, and most being retained within the Regiment.
From the start we have worked to several principles, the most important one has been “minimum fuss & disruption to the Rfn”. A change as significant as this comes with natural disruption, but at all levels it has been worked through and minimized as best as it can. The transition has been fully supported by RHQ and the other Battalions, each of which will benefit from additions to their ranks!
Capt Mark Charlton
The Bradford Program – Fire Support Company Live Better
In September, Fire Support Company (FSp Coy) planned and executed the inaugural Bradford Live Better program. FSp has been committed operationally since Summer 2022, however the Coy made it a priority to complete the Program in order to enhance unit cohesion and morale.
Named after Brigadier General Bradford VC, the program contains four pillars; Live, Learn, Lead, and Leave Better. All of these are designed to increase human performance through the marginal gains model, adopted by elite athletes.
In September, FSp Coy started the 3-day program knowing their current levels of human performance. The aim of the Live Better program is to empower Riflemen with the tools to optimise their own human performance. This was achieved collectively through the delivery of three core components: physical training, presentations, and team cohesion events.
The program started with an arduous bodyweight session on the beach along the Forth of Firth and later moved onto the familiar sight of the Pentland Hills. Key presentations aimed at living better were
the program contains four pillars; Live, Learn, Lead, and Leave Better
delivered by members of the company which included effects of alcohol and caffeine on the body and the link between sleep and mental wellbeing. Lastly, the week culminated by improving team cohesion through a unique urban navigation exercise in Edinburgh City Centre. Teams had
four hours to complete as many tasks as possible, these ranged from climbing to the tallest point in Edinburgh to trying on a kilt. The night ended with a quiz night to finish off the Live Better Program.
Overall, the Live Better program was positively received, with a few Riflemen already using the knowledge gained with the aim of improving themselves. Being an effective Rifleman begins with physical and mental wellbeing, proved through the Live Better program.
Cpl Twigg
Fire Support Coy enjoying their cool down
RIFLES The Bugle 23