Page 49 - MERCIAN Eagle 2017

scenarios whereby the vehicle has become out of control. This led nicely into the
MRX training which looked specifically at defensive driving involving; observation and anticipation, vehicle control, dealing with adverse weather, road rage, speed awareness and the vehicle’s limit point.
Throughout the MRX, a range of scenarios were used to test our capabilities on drills such as contact. It assessed our reaction in certain situations, specifically looking at how we would protect and extract our VIPs to safety. The MRX placed us in a stressful scenario in order test
and prove our reactions in the toughest environments.
The MRX also covered a wide range of potential threats that the Coy could face during the deployment, this included IDF attacks, CBRN threats and insider threat.
The Platoon performed well on the MRX, achieving an overall Green award across the board. MTMC are content with our capabilities and have deemed us ready to deploy.
Force Protection, JOB ZORBASH, OP SHADER
By Pte Law
As part of the Force Protection we were split down into four-man teams doing a three-week rotation of day guard, night guard and driving tasks.
The guard rotation was split down
into Day Guard (0700-1900) and Night Guard (1900-0700). We carried out camp duties such as: restocking water, putting flags up around camp, managing
incoming and outgoing call signs, running the communication suite and other miscellaneous tasks that would arise.
Driving was deemed to be the best rotation. This enabled you to travel and see different parts of Iraq. We would support resupply runs down to Menila Training Centre, taking the CO to Key Leader Engagements at the Ministry of Peshmerga and other short notice moves that would arise.
Training Team, OP SHADER
By LCpl Barrett
I arrived in theatre on the 11 October, and having received an RSOI package, I headed to Menila where I spent most of my deployment. I taught the Peshmerga a variety of subjects from basic patrol skills, ranging to building clearances. The first intake was a strong group of trainees and to watch them develop over time was a fantastic and personally rewarding experience. I felt proud to distribute the qualifying certificates to those who had passed.
When we weren’t running a training course, we had opportunities to become proactive and engage in activities such
as shooting competitions against other nations, several endurance runs in Iraqi hills and also unit training.
At the latter part of my tour, I returned to Erbil as part of Training Team North which was in place to train the Zerevani Forces. We covered a wide range of topics from immediate stoppage drills to
section attacks. Unfortunately, due to other operational commitments I could not see this whole intake through.
As the Tour came to an end, I was ready for home. However, I have come away with a great deal of knowledge that I will carry throughout my army career. Overall, it was a very positive first Tour.
The Falkland Islands, OP FIRIC
By Pte Hampson
I deployed to The Falkland Islands with
D Company in August 17. I was attached to Patrols Platoon and was made to feel part of Dragon Company almost immediately.
When we arrived, I could immediately feel the change in temperature, proving tough to walk against the strong winds. There was a lot on offer including swimming, fully equipped gymnasium and weights room, squash courts, bowling, cinema, coffee shops, bars and many other activities.
We went on numerous patrols as a section, engaged with the ranges and had the opportunity to experience some joint training with the Navy. The highlight of this part of the tour was landing on a moving ship in a helicopter, which was exhilarating. If the Falklands taught me one thing, it was how to keep warm.
The boys have experienced a wide range of opportunities this year and they have given their upmost and performed to an exceptional standard. With a lot to look forward to next year, the Company will go from strength to strength.
ERBIL TRAINING TEAM – Op SHADER
The Erbil Training Team deployed under command of B (Malta) Coy on Op SHADER, was based near Erbil. The team’s mission, whilst deployed to the Kurdistan region of Iraq from June 17 to December 17, was
to train the Kurdish Security Forces, either Peshmerga units or Zerevani units. The team, comprised of one Officer, one SNCO, three JNCOs and three Private soldiers, were directed to teach a six week Wide Area Security (WAS) course, in conjunction with other coalition units deployed to the region.
Having completed an extensive pre- deployment package, members of the team, many of whom were deploying on operations for the first time, were eager
to test themselves in this operational environment. On arrival, and having adapted to the searing heat which at
times exceeded 40oC, the team put in to practice all that had been taught before. Deploying from Erbil to a local training area, they would meet the training audience which on average numbered approximately 120 students. Periods of instruction were
Two members of the Erbil Training Team coinduct live firing
THE MERCIAN EAGLE
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