Page 171 - Chronicle Vol 17

on the battlefield but must be considerate and kind to the soldiers underneath them. Throughout The Rifles history this ethos has provided the conditions for success on the battlefield. Whilst examples of this are extensive, this essay will explore a few key case studies in which this is particularly pertinent.
COPENHAGEN
The battle of Copenhagen was an engagement that saw the British Royal Naval Fleet, led by Admiral Nelson, decisively engage the Danish fleet anchored outside Copenhagen on the 2 April 1801. Parties of Riflemen served aboard Royal Navy vessels as marines during this battle. The Rifleman were tasked to act indepen- dently, sniping key targets such as drummers and officers upon the Danish Naval ships. The Rifleman armed with innovative Baker Rifles set up on the rigging of the British ships and searched for opportune targets. These Rifleman acted as independent teams utilising the forward edge of military technology and tactics in order to achieve success. This act set the formidable reputation for the ability of the Rifleman to work as an independent and flexible force and as such they were attributed as a key asset in ensuring the success of this battle.
Copenhagen provides an example of innovation empowering Rifleman to achieve success. Lessons can be drawn from this battle and applied to the modern- day Rifleman. It is clear that the modern soldier must maintain an innovative lead with equipment and tactics, providing the fighting edge over adversaries. Procurement is not controllable at the tactical level; therefore, it is imperative that commanders pursue innovation of tactics and explore how to best employ their current equipment.
PEGASUS BRIDGE
Pegasus Bridge was an objective that was highlighted as ‘Key Terrain’ for the suc- cess of the Normandy Invasion. An agile and free-thinking unit was needed to conduct this mission. As such, D Company Oxford and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry were selected for this audacious mission. OC D Company expected the invasion to involve night-fighting and heavily resourced training in this area to ensure that his men were up to the task. Transport to Normandy was arranged in Horsa gliders to ensure surprise was achieved. Upon landing, D Company, regrouped under extremely confusing and disorientating conditions, relying on the independent thought and professionalism of the Rifleman to ensure mis- sion success. The Rifleman moved quickly to accomplish their assigned tasks, and within five minutes the bridge over the Caen Canal was in British hands. This example demonstrates a high drive for excellence and the ability to maintain flexibility within a training cycle to achieve success. It also provides an excellent example of the need for realistic mission specific training to be implemented.
Pegasus Bridge can be used as an excellent example of the chain of command empowering the Rifleman through vigorous and mission specific training. This relentless drive for success allowed the time and space for the Rifleman to act and perform independently allowing the trust and mission command that underpins how the Rifles operate as a regiment today. Lessons for the leaders of today’s
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