Page 429 - The History of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps 1962–2021

THE HISTORY OF THE ROYAL ARMY VETERINARY CORPS 1962 – 2021
Sourcing replacements for the veterinary posts was also problematic. The OC post dual-roled as a VO and had to provide Role 1 and 2 veterinary care in theatre, with roles 3 and 4 care being provided by the Cyprus Defence Animal Support Unit. So severe was VO manning, veterinary cover was sourced from Kuwait via technical agreement with the US ARCENT Veterinary Services and from a European veterinary hospital in Kuwait. This now allowed the OC’s post to be filled by non-veter- inary trained personnel.15
Despite ongoing concern with regard to manning, the infrastructure of TMWDSU was reported as being excellent. OC TMWDSU stated that: “the TMWDSU continues to provide an invaluable asset to Op TELIC. The provision of Protection MWDs acts as a considerable force multiplier in securing three base locations and the Specialist MWDs continue to prove their worth with a number of high profile finds. The transition from 101 MWD Sp Unit to the TMWDSU has been the basis of the majority of difficulties that have arisen, however, this is the first formation of such a Unit and lessons learnt should assist in future Operations.”16
The Iraq Survey Group (ISG):
The ISG was a fact-finding mission sent by the Multinational Force in Iraq, after the 2003 invasion to discover the weapons of mass destruction allegedly possessed by Saddam Hussein – in short, the main ostensible reason for the invasion.
It consisted of a fourteen hundred member international team organized by the Pentagon and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to hunt for the alleged stockpiles of WMDs including chemical and biological agents, and any supporting research programs and infrastructure that could be used to develop such weapons. The report acknowledged that only small stockpiles of chemical WMDs were found; the numbers being inadequate to pose a significant military threat.17
The RAVC, with the honed diplomatic skills of Colonel Tom Ogilvie-Graham MBE RAVC, secured the services of four RAVC specialist dog teams to assist in ISG Search Operations. He and Major Chris Ham, during late 2003, visited Camp Slayer in Baghdad and liaised with ISG and US battle groups to secure the use of these dog teams which were very well received. Their deployment was hailed as a resounding success as it proved that Military Working Dogs could assist effectively in such specific Operations. The concept, already
15 Post Op Tour Report dated 3rd May 2003 by Major Mike R Robinson RAVC. 16 Ibid.
17 Wikipedia.
tried and tested, by other civilian companies, was refined by the RAVC’s small team of handlers utilising this method of detection. Samples were taken from very dangerous areas, and under strict control measure the swabs were analysed in a safe military environment. If necessary, a follow up search operation was planned. Man’s best friend once again proved it could easily adapt to a new requirement.
Sadly, as the ISG withdrew so did the RAVC teams circa November 2004. A later report concluded: “The capability was successfully developed and trialled and may have wider utility both in the UK and theatres overseas.”
During April 2004 following the end of the conflict, Coalition forces were faced with the enormous task of re-establishing the country’s services. Extensive looting and devastation had affected all aspects of Iraq, including the veterinary services. Many agencies were helping Iraq, but the focus was on human health and the restoration of basic services such as water and electricity. Whilst the UN Food and Agriculture organisation was managing the replenishment of livestock, ironically, no aid agency had identified the need to restore veterinary support.
The RAVC liaised with the Civil and Military Op Cell, and Major Mary Logan RAVC made detailed assessments of the Basra Veterinary College and Basra State Veterinary Hospital. Sadly, however, the facilities had been completely looted. All the teaching equipment had been stolen and even internal fixtures and fittings removed. As a result of a meeting with the US Army Civil Affairs battalion, it was decided that the VO should administer the re-build of the Basra State Veterinary Hospital and that funding be made available to Units on the ground that could identify projects able to be resolved quickly and benefit the local population.
The G5 (Hearts and Minds) staff at HQ 1st (UK) Armoured Division, rapidly funded the initiative and work commenced quickly to repair all the structures including flooring, water and electricity supplies provide lighting, air conditioning and the necessary furniture, including desks, and a lectern. Security measures were enhanced by the provision of metal gates and the construction of a large perimeter wall. All of this was completed over 19 days at a cost of less than $50K. The success of the project was that it enabled the clinical teaching of final year vet students and it ensured that veterinary care for returning livestock
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