Page 49 - Mind, Body and Spirit No. 105 2021/22

Capt (MAA) M Arthur RAPTC
‘Change is the only constant in life’
Heraclitus
A period of considerable transition is pending for the 4th Inf Bde and HQ NE as they re-structure for Future Soldier. Currently we are resubordinating 75% of the Bde units and refining the outputs of the formation, enabled by Army Reserve units to allow them to lead as the Operate Light BCT, both ready and able to respond to global threats below the threshold of conflict.
Persistent engagement will sit at the very heart of outputs. Forces deployed forward, providing an overt platform that combines training with partnered activity and regional engagement to reassure allies, deter adversaries and support the UK prosperity agenda and Global Britain. The focus is very much on delivering a persistent presence in Oman and Kenya whilst maintaining the lead for regional engagement in N Africa.
Due to the expeditionary nature of this activity, I believe the RAPTCI (forward) remains crucial to assuring the safe systems of work, by preventing heat illness, enabling ‘safe’ individual training, whilst supporting both the planning and execution of AT in new and remote locations. A balance must however be struck, as we know key priorities also remain at the base location with the rear operations group.
Physical Development
As the restrictions caused by the pandemic have eased, the next 12 months is likely to offer greater consistency and subsequent progression against the Army Physical Training System (APTS). The busy forecast of events and ongoing commitments, remains the greatest challenge for units when applying the periodised training programme; I am confident through advancements in technology and continued education to the chain of command this will improve with time, ensuring that people train safely and correctly during operations, fragmented taskings and essential courses.
People
I offer sincere thanks to QMSI Andy Halliday MBE (RPOC NW) and QMSI Tracey Hetherington (4X QMSI) who have worked tirelessly, offering support and guidance to both myself and the RAPTCIs in the North. Capt Chris (have
WO2 (QMSI) Tracey Hetherington with GSM and Deputy Commander 4X at the UK North Cross Country
The Milk Tray Man – AKA WO2 (QMSI) Andy Halliday MBE RAPTC on the slopes with HQ NW
I told you I rowed the Atlantic) Hames continues to be a valuable sounding board in the Bde, always offering useful perspective and opinion around PD management and wider issues.
As my time with the Black Rats comes to an end, I will fondly remember the work ethic, collaborative approach, and relaxed family feel you get working with the RAPTCIs in the North.
Thank you to you all – it has been a pleasure!
(Left) Capt (MAA) M Arthur RAPTC. (Above) Exercise KHANJAR OMAN 2021
47
4TH INFANTRY BRIGADE & HEADQUARTERS NORTH EAST
4TH INFANTRY BRIGADE & HEADQUARTERS NORTH EAST ‘THE BLACK RATS’