Page 44 - Mercian Eagle Year of 2023

C (Kohima) Company
2Lt Michael Olafisoye
This year troops of C company have involved themselves in various pursuits including deployments in support of the wider army, training to increase our combat readiness and pursuing ATs which have increased morale, teamwork and esprit.
C company has excelled greatly winning the battalion sports competition; showing our motivation to excel and our high levels of fitness.
The soldiers demonstrated dedication
to personal and professional development, with LCpl Khan who hails from Nottingham completing courses related to mental health. Pte Wells and Pte Bulman shining on their PJNCO cadre with strong passes. Furthermore, promotions were rightfully earned by Cpl Boycott and Cpl Tweneboa, recognizing their outstanding contributions and professional development.
As part of a very busy year, we have
had personnel deployed on various operations across the country and overseas - supporting the wider army and nation
in the process. OP INTERFLEX saw Maj Rawji from Staffordshire, WO2 Woodward from Mansfield, Cpl Noble from Newark, LCpl Ward from Nottingham, and LCpl White from Derby, deploy from March to December. Additionally, the company has been represented on OP TEAMWORK by 2Lt Payne who hails from Mansfield, and OP ILKANE supporting the UK Border Force by
CSgt Lloyd from Nottingham, Cpl Etches from Mansfield, Pte Bulman and Cpl Boycott from Mansfield.
In addition to the above operations,
we had personnel deployed on several exercises including Task Force Hannibal in Germany alongside our regular counterparts from 1 MERCIAN, Ex Baltic Fist supporting the ongoing UK contribution to NATO in Estonia, Ex Challenge Eagle the C company led patrols weekend.
As far as recruiting goes the company has had a strong year with 8 direct applicants, 4 rejoiners and 4 transfers
with numerous personnel completing battle camp and going on to complete CIC becoming phase 2 trained soldiers.
C company has also represented the Mercian regiment at various recruitment events including the successful Army Engagement Group event in Mansfield and the Arms and Services day held at the EMUOTC where soldiers from across the battalion interacted with potential soldiers and officers.
Kohima concluded the year on a festive note with the highlight being the Christmas party. The year showcased a commitment to team building, providing troops with opportunities to unwind and enjoy their affiliation with the army. The camaraderie peaked during the enjoyable outing at Ramsdale Golf Club
C Coy 4 MERCIAN Troops Trg
driving ranges, where diverse skill levels, including the entertaining performances of 2Lt Olafisoye and 2Lt Saunders both from Nottingham, underscored the need for a bit more practice. The company also relished the company dinner in January and the Christmas function in November, both orchestrated with precision by
the hardworking organisers. Adding to
the excitement, the company actively participated in Ex Kohima Ethos, featuring thrilling quad biking, and embarked on the Dolomites Walking expedition in northern Italy. These events collectively marked a year filled with memorable experiences, culminating in the joyous Christmas celebration.
After a very positive and eventful year for the company, there is every reason to believe 2024 will only build on the success of 2023 with Ex Immediate Response in Poland to look forward to.
C Coy 4 MERCIAN Op INTERFLEX
THE MERCIAN EAGLE
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