Page 37 - RSDG Year of 2023

all our own Recy Mechs, Soldiers for 1 Royal Irish LAD (who have the only other asset), 1 Bn REME (our 2nd line Battalion), 2 Bn REME and 4 RA. We also delivered a week’s training package to the 1UKXX TTX students.
Our three vehicles got their first outing during Ex WESSEX STORM which served as an excellent opportunity to highlight and evaluate the capability of LWRV to its fullest. I supported A Sqn as their aligned Recy Mech and newly qualified LWRV Operator and the Boss, Sgt Haylock supported B Sqn. We were backfilled by a 1 REME Soldier who was aligned to C Sqn, however, he lasted only a few days. With the exercise being hampered by severe wet weather (there were several Yellow and Red weather warnings), to say that we were inundated with jobs would be an understatement. ‘Boggies’ were common to most cross country moves, throughout the Driver Training Phase and only increased during Battle Group integration and the Test Exercise. Throughout however, the LWRV really shined, dramatically reducing recovery loops. To provide a bit of context in terms of ability, we were able to recover several vehicles which the SV(R) could not because of access and ground saturation. We kept a diary for Sgt Haylock to produce a PXR for both DE&S and Field Army Programmes. From my viewpoint, the metrics of over 85 Logged Recovery Tasks completed forward without the requirement to bring an SVR up from A1 prove just how important this vehicle is going to be for us during VJTF(L)24. It is not the finished article, and it has its deficiencies. It cannot yet recover LR BFA or PANTHER which are both integral to any Lt Cav sub-unit FEch.
I am proud of how much we have done to get the vehicle to SCOTS DG as a team and the way that we have shaped its development. The vehicle is better for SCOTS DG LAD input, and we are a better organisation with it on our ORBAT.
Sgt Haylock receiving a MG REME Commendation from Colonel REME
SUMMARY
Overall, this year has been really challenging, but we have faced it with professionalism, humour, and an ardent desire to be the best LAD in our Division. I am immensely proud of our troops and what they have achieved. Our availability metrics, the Post Operational and Post Exercise Reports speak for themselves - but they do not tell the whole story. We are successful because of our people. Some of their achievements have been impressive and always founded in delivering support to the Regiment. We look forward to our role with NATO’s Very High Readiness Force in Poland in a few months and then another exercise season in Germany before we go again with deployments on Operations in Eastern Europe. Arte et Marte.
EAGLE AND CARBINE 35
Welcoming Forces families since 1803
Offering high-quality education and outstanding pastoral care, The Duke of York’s Royal Military School is a top boarding school choice. With outstanding academic resources, unrivalled facilities, and a welcoming community, students find a true home away from home. The student-centred approach fosters confidence and competence, and dedicated teachers and pastoral staff guide students toward excellence. Open to students aged 11–18, the school provides a rich learning environment, small class sizes and over 100 co-curricular activities. Students leave with elevated grades, lifelong friendships, and a sense of pride in upholding the esteemed Dukie Values.
Visit the award-winning school today: www.doyrms.com.
ADVERTORIAL FEATURE