Page 77 - Mind, Body & Spirit Number 104 2020/21

THE 1ST BATTALION THE YORKSHIRE REGIMENT
SSgt (SSI) R Lowe RAPTC
Having arrived at 1 YORKS in January this year from ITC, I was thrilled to be with the Battalion back in “God’s country” at their new home Alma lines, Catterick Garrison
after spending 15 years in Warminster. The initial struggles were obvious, replacing the RDG a Regiment half the size, space was always going to be a struggle. The PT staff had to think outside the box to deliver APTS in line with Government guidelines, the limited use of equipment meant personal equipment became the resistance and the barbells were left for individual training.
My main effort upon arrival was to open the Gymnasium for level one, two PT and individual training. After the move, the unit was gapped for an extended period and required a regain on the PT front with weight management and recovery PT top of my priorities. Now the Battalion are back in routine PT at all levels, and with the use of modern technology Garmin’s and Myzone’s, Individuals can train efficiently and effectively towards their personal goals and the Battalions main efforts.
Members of the Battalion completed RFT-S as part of their preparation for High readiness
The Battalion is part of the lead Armoured Battlegroup at high readiness at the forefront of the warfighting Division as the Armoured Infantry Battalion of choice. During the move and 18 months of preparation, the Battalion have accomplished deployment on various oversees tasks supporting 20 Armoured Bde in Germany as enemy on their preparations for OP CABRIT, along with developing solders for career courses in light and armoured role. Company level exercises were frequent on Salisbury training area, the exercises provided essential training in keeping the Battalion at high readiness and Physical fitness being at the forefront of the Battalions efforts.
Soldiers for the Battalion have been supporting the fight against COVID-19 providing testing in Liverpool and Birmingham.
Familiarisation loaded march around new surroundings
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Back right – AAPTI Cpl Mothersdale (white jumper) supporting the NHS in Birmingham