Page 5 - Bugle Spring 2024

FOREWORD
FOREWORD
By The Colonel Commandant
Lieutenant General Tom Copinger-Symes CBE
The last six months have again been dominated by the ongoing struggle against Russian aggression in eastern Ukraine. But, as 2023 drew to a close, we were also reminded of the potential for devastating conflict in the Middle East, with the terrible events of the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict threatening further instability across the region. I am extremely proud to say that the Regiment continues to contribute significantly to the UK effort in support of the people of Ukraine and in helping to understand the factors at play in the wider Middle East.
I am continually inspired by the determination, adaptability, and selflessness
of our Riflemen, both regular and reserve. Our battalions have been continuously engaged
in support to Ukraine through Op INTERFLEX, and I know this has had a significant impact on leave and family life. I have been deeply impressed by the quality of the training being delivered to our partners; as well as the enthusiasm and innovation shown, particularly by our JNCOs, who shoulder the heaviest burden. The 2nd Battalion and 3rd Battalion were, at extremely short notice, redirected
to Op INTERFLEX tasks which they achieved with astounding speed, efficiency, and effectiveness.
Elsewhere, the tempo has remained
high across the regiment. The 1st Battalion has moved to Cyprus and assumed the
role of Regional Standby Battalion; quickly standing-to to provide contingency for current tensions in the Middle East. The 3rd Battalion, aside from Ukraine-facing tasks, faces the challenge of adjusting to their new Security Force Assistance structure. This is a significant undertaking, but I know the process is being conducted with our Riflemen and their families as the absolute focus. 4th Battalion the Ranger Regiment remains closely tied to us - they are Riflemen in all but capbadge. They too have been heavily committed as the concept evolves, seeking opportunities to deliver disproportionate strategic effect, with small teams widely deployed. And at time of writing, the 5th Battalion is demonstrating
its preparedness for a third deployment to Estonia, in 2024.
All three Army Reserve battalions
have mobilised Riflemen in support of Op INTERFLEX, where the Reservist perspective is invaluable when training a broadly civilian
force. They continue to go from strength to strength. The 6th Battalion achieved the first Cambrian Patrol Gold Medal for an Army Reserve team in a decade, the 7th Battalion deployed on exercise to Estonia - one of
the largest concentrations of Reservists in an operational theatre in recent times, and the 8th Battalion has extended its footprint into Hartlepool. The Reserve battalions also play a critical role as our primary link to the community, association, and cadet pillars. Work continues to build the Riflemen’s Association with an inaugural Northern Gathering and a gala dinner at Silverstone to support the ‘Always a Rifleman’ Programme. The strength of our affiliated cadet forces and the dedication of the adult volunteers is undiminished.
the Ranger Regiment remains closely tied to us
In November I was delighted to welcome our Colonel-in-Chief, HM The Queen, as well
as 14 Lord Lieutenants, 34 mayors and almost 200 Riflemen from across the pillars of the regiment to the City of London Guildhall for our Biennial Awards Dinner. Aside from being a fantastic opportunity to catch-up with friends old and new, the fact that such a distinguished audience took time out of their busy lives to recognise the excellence of our people, from all five pillars of the regiment, is testament to our reputation and the relationships we have forged.
Swift and Bold.
- they are Riflemen in all but capbadge
RIFLES The Bugle 5