Page 25 - Light Dragoons 2023 CREST

The Regimental Journal of The Light Dragoons
ily. Special mention needs to go to RQs Martin & Cawthorne (organising and drill respectively), SSgt Errington and his team of merry chefs (whilst deployed on Op INTERFLEX), Sgt Bradder (funding), welfare team and every person who assisted with the set-up and running of the day.
The unexpected. Activated within days – elements of HQ Sqn deployed on Op INTERFLEX from Jun – Dec 22 in sup- port of Armed Forces Ukraine. The Light Dragoons mission was simple – train circa. 2500 Ukrainians in infantry dismounted skills. Delivering that mission was any- thing but simple. This task stretched HQ Sqn to the limit and beyond at times, testing not only those personnel that were deployed on it, but also the personnel that remained in Gaza. Effectively HQ Sqn were responsible for 2 regiments worth of logistics, infrastructure, equipment, work- force and much more, which had huge workload implications across every dept. It is testament to everyone that, due to their work ethic, commitment and sacrifice we have delivered beyond all expectations to provide our Ukrainian counterparts the
tools to defend themselves. Everyone that was a part of INTERFLEX has spoken of their pride, satisfaction and sense of ful- filment. An experience most won’t forget anytime soon.
Whilst it has been a relentlessly busy year – HQ Sqn has still managed to find moments of fun. A majority of the Sqn managed to take the time to attend adventure training in the Lake District and the Sqn Christmas party consisting of Bingo Bongo!! Sqn funds are looking very heathy, providing opportunity next year to come together as a collective more often.
As the year draws to an end, our people look forward to a well-deserved break, tak- ing time to reflect and spend time with family & loved ones. There are many addi- tional tasks the Sqn has completed over the last 12 months, too many to state all. What is clear, whatever the task is, however dif- ficult it may appear – HQ Sqn always deliv- ers. A big thank you to everyone within the Sqn, new & old for your dedication and professionalism through 2022.
AJP
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