Page 33 - Mercian Eagle Year of 2023

MTO MTWO MT Sgt
Capt Anthony Hill WO2 David Kolodynski Sgt Justin Barrett
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Motor Transport Platoon
Capt Anthony Hill (MTO)
The MT Platoon has certainly had a busy period since the last issue of the Mercian Eagle. They had the opportunity to showcase their capabilities during Exercise IRON STORM, where they were deployed
in the A1 Echelon role. This exercise on Salisbury Plain tested the Platoon’s ability to provide combat service support and real-life support to the Battalion.
Members of the Platoon have also
had numerous opportunities to deploy internationally. They participated in Exercise WARFIGHTER 1/23 in Fort Hood, Texas, and took on observer mentor roles in support of the Royal Welsh Battle Group in Sennelager, Germany. These deployments have given the Platoon valuable experience and have contributed to their growth and development. Furthermore, the Platoon has
Adjutant General’s Corp (Staff and Personnel Support) Detachment
On Sat 22 Jul 23, 1 MERCIAN SPS Detachment organised a Cycling Charity Event, covering a total distance of 669 miles (the distance from Picton Barracks, Bulford to John O’ Groats, Scotland) in Tesco Superstore, Tidworth.
The event was to raise money for the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) and to build
team spirit, promote team cohesion
- encouraging the SPS ethos of fidelity, integrity, adaptability and credibility amongst the SPS detachments.
During the event 4 cycling machines were stationed at the main entrance of Tesco Superstore, Tidworth. The event was divided into 3 x shifts starting from 0800 hrs and ceased at 2130 hrs due to silent hours and security.
As a collective of 13 cyclists, the team successfully completed the distance of 669 miles in a good time.
The event was a successful endeavour,
Sat 22 Jul 23, 1 MERCIAN SPS Det organised Cycling Charity Event in TESCO Superstore, Tidworth.
The MT Platoon in Picton Barracks
been incredibly busy supporting various sub-unit exercises across the Battalion. They assisted B Company during their deployment to Finland and C Company during their deployment to Romania, among others. Despite the demanding workload, the Platoon’s morale remains high, and
they continue to offer their expertise and guidance to all drivers.
Looking ahead, there are some changes on the horizon for the platoon. Sergeant Barrett, who has served for 24 years, will be leaving in the New Year. He will be replaced by Corporal Dobinson, who has been selected for promotion to Sergeant. Additionally, Captain Hill, who has served
as the MTO for two years, will be moving on in the summer of 2024. We must not forget the grafters in the Platoon who will also be leaving in 2024, including LCpl Whitehead, LCpl Lane, Pte Smith, Pte Inegbedion, Pte Pemberton, and Pte Etherington.
Overall, the MT Platoon has been operating at full capacity, supporting various exercises and deployments both domestically and internationally. They have shown great resilience and dedication,
and despite the upcoming changes, they remain focused and committed to providing the best motor transport expertise and guidance to all drivers.
Fri 08 Sep 23, SSAFA presentation. Successfully managed to raise a substantial amount of money totalling £1753.
surpassing expectations and leaving a positive impact on the community it aimed to support.
Through a dedicated effort and a contribution of unique strength by the team, we successfully managed to raise
a substantial amount of £1753. A heartfelt donation was extended to SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity association who has supported the Armed Forces for more than 138 years. The contribution aims to support their mission of assisting serving men and women, veterans, and their families in times of need.
Wed 13 Sep 23, SSAFA presentation with TESCO staff showing the heartfelt thank you for their generous support and kindness in allowing us to use their entrance shelter.
This donation also reflects a commitment to honouring and recognising the sacrifices made by those who serve in the armed forces. By supporting SSAFA, the donor hopes to contribute to the well-being and welfare of individuals who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms. Every contribution, no matter the size, plays a crucial role in making a positive impact
on the lives of military personnel and their loved ones.
A heartfelt thank you to TESCO Superstore, Tidworth for their generous support and kindness in allowing us to use their entrance shelter. Your community spirit has provided a haven during challenging times, making a significant difference to our cause. Gratitude for being a true partner in compassion.
Massive well done to the 1 MERCIAN SPS Det for the unwavering dedication, collaborative spirits, and passion for making a difference have not only achieved remarkable success but have also sown the seeds of positive change that will continue to flourish in the hearts and lives of those they have touched.
THE MERCIAN EAGLE