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108 EAGLE AND CARBINE
to agree and, thanks to that match made in heaven, we have some excellent photos. The CALFEX provided one of the most surreal experiences. With sufficient and effective rates of fire, lighting up STANTA with an extortionate amount of ammunition supported by the infantry’s mortar illum was possibly the highlight. There was a suggestion over the net that frustration at the range conduction officer’s planning could lead to a casualty report being required. Thankfully, although prepared, this was never actioned!
With elements of MRTC forming the ‘enemy’, careful planning went into maximising success. Cpl Blair took the lead on an excellent detention serial that Lt Fooks attempted to take the praise for. He was firmly, but for once respectfully, put in his place by the squadron and is yet to hear the end of said outburst. After the initial shock of capture, route selection on STANTA became the most contentious issue. Those who know the area will understand how canalised you are. However, the Sqn successfully avoided all but one IED planted by MRTC, with Sgt Taganekurukuru proving that he is impervious to explosive devices! Much to the OC’s concern (in the vehicle behind), Sgt Taganekurukuru’s route selection wasn’t questioned again.
The LAD were faultless as ever, their sheer determi- nation to ensure 100% vehicle availability resulted in the Sqn’s success. The vehicle fleet which has been
through a torrid two years required a lot of TLC, which it received from A Squadron’s light aid detachment. SSgt Wykes, who wasn’t happy unless under a Jackal, spanner in hand, led from the front and demonstrated the tireless commitment required to successfully validate for Op NEWCOMBE.
The squadron was also visited by HRH The Duke of Kent outside Bridge Carr Village in STANTA. The weather was excellent and The Duke, clearly interested in our approach to peacekeeping, ruthlessly interrogated the Royal Artillery drone detachment who had managed to lose a second Puma aircraft in as many days; an interesting conversation, providing much needed entertainment.
Finally, as always, officer admin was constantly in question from Trooper to SNCO. When a brand new 2Lt was seen completely ‘starkers’ washing his oddly shaped body outside of the leaguer the observer- mentors had to photograph the occasion, impressed by the attention to detail in his scrubbing. Unfortunately, the photo didn’t make it into the after action review, but the young officer was praised for his exceptional level of admin, despite the process being outside of the ring of steel provided by the task group.
A History of The Princess Mary’s Hospital
Royal Air Force Akrotiri 1963 – 2013 Written by Colonel David Vassallo L/RAMC
A new 120 page paperback book about the hospital’s history packed with intriguing photographs that raises funds for RAF Akrotiri Station Charities.
If you were posted to Cyprus you will enjoy the memories and delight browsing through the images, if you were born there you will cherish this unique keepsake. Buy it as a gift.
ISBN 978-0992798017
Available to buy online at www.thegreatbritishbookshop.co.uk, Amazon and The Museum of Military Medicine
20180129_New TPMH Banner Advert 185mm x 50mm.indd 1
29/01/2018 21:19