Page 7 - Chronicle Vol 17

engaged in support to Ukraine through Op INTERFLEX, and I know this has had a significant impact on leave and family life. I have been deeply impressed by the quality of the training being delivered to our partners, as well as the enthu- siasm and innovation shown, particular our JNCOs, who shoulder the heaviest burden. The 2nd Battalion (recently back from Estonia) and 3rd Battalion were redirected at extremely short notice to Op INTERFLEX tasks, which they achieved with astounding speed, efficiency, and effectiveness. All this must be set against the backdrop of the COVID pandemic, which makes 2023 the third year in a row where a huge amount has been asked of the Regiment, under extraordinarily challenging circumstances.
Beyond Op INTERFLEX, tempo remains high. The 1st Battalion has moved to Cyprus and assumed the role of Regional Standby Battalion; quickly standing-to to provide contingency for current tensions in the Middle East. The 2nd Battalion had little time to rehabilitate between returning from Estonia and re-deploying on Op INTERFLEX. The 3rd Battalion faces the challenge of adjusting to their new Security Force Assistance structure. This is a significant undertaking, but I know the process is being conducted with our Riflemen and their families as the absolute focus. 4th Battalion the Ranger Regiment remains closely tied to us - they are Riflemen in all but cap badge. They too have been heavily committed as the concept evolves, seeking opportunities to deliver disproportionate strate- gic effect, with small teams widely deployed. We must continue to support them and encourage Riflemen to serve with them, to maintain the closest of links and exploit the opportunity for interesting roles in fascinating places. At time of writ- ing, the 5th Battalion is demonstrating its preparedness for a third deployment to Estonia, in 2024. While there are benefits to being aligned to such a role, I do not underestimate the challenge of such a long build up and deployment.
All three Army Reserve battalions have mobilised Riflemen in support of Op INTERFLEX, where the Reservist perspective is invaluable when training a broadly civilian force. They continue to go from strength to strength. All three battalions sit in the top 15 of infantry recruiting, including 1st and 2nd in the rankings. The 6th Battalion achieved the first Cambrian Patrol Gold Medal for an Army Reserve team in a decade, the 7th Battalion deployed on exercise to Estonia - one of the largest concentrations of Reservists in an operational theatre in recent times, and the 8th Battalion has extended its footprint into Hartlepool. The Reserve battalions also play a critical role as our primary link to the community, association, and cadet pillars. Work continues to build the Riflemen’s Association with an inaugural Northern Gathering and a gala dinner at Silverstone to support the ‘Always a Riflemen’ Programme. The strength of our affiliated cadet forces and the dedication of the adult volunteers is undiminished. The 7th Battalion delivered another hugely successful Rifles’ Cadet Cup in Brecon, an important investment in the next generation.
In May, General Patrick and I had the honour of taking part in the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. The Regiment played a significant part, with Riflemen from the 1st and the 6th Battalions forming a marching contingent
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