Page 488 - The History of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps 1962–2021

THE HISTORY OF THE ROYAL ARMY VETERINARY CORPS 1962 – 2021
sheer volume of outgoing artillery fire and incoming mortars, the constant pounding caused Bronny to be ineffective. This occurrence highlighted a constraint in the deployment of MWDs in such a kinetic environment as forward locations.26
In recognition of his hard work at the FOB, Cpl Hood was later selected to attend a lunch with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown and the Secretary of State for Defence, Des Brown on 2nd April 2007 at Camp Bastion.
Tasking in the Heat and Dust:
The use of MWDs in the sometimes savage heat of the desert environment was a frequent topic for discussion during both Op TELIC and operations in Afghanistan. Provided the sensible use of MWD teams was considered by all commanders, just as soldiers are deployed on the ground, many of the perceived limitations were avoided. Clearly, it was an ongoing limitation particularly in summer
as the temperatures rose. Equally, in the wintry months, especially in Kabul, with its high altitude, temperatures could become unpleasantly cold for both the dogs and their handlers. The following points were noted from a comprehensive theatre report at the time:27
“All MWDs appear to work well in the increasing temperature. CT is regularly conducted in the heat of the day at 1330, with handlers wearing full Osprey and helmets; with due consideration given to heat illness. MWD teams walk to and from CT areas ensuring peak fitness. It is thought the intense physical activity with MWD teams prior to deployment has had much to do with acclimatisation process.”
Data collected appeared to show the temperature rises by two degrees centigrade per hour over the period 0630 – 1330 daily. The graph below illustrates BSN heat stress and air temperatures for April 2007.
The following from the TMWDSU report June
26 Incident Report Dated 10th April 2007.
27 TMWDSU Operational Update/102/G7/1 dated 11th May 2007.
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