Page 23 - QDG Volume 9 No. 5

1st The Queen’s Dragoon Guards Other ranks body and tan (ORBAT)
to the challenge, deploying out B and
C Squadron with utter professionalism.
From arranging transport, to creating
comms plans and making sure everyone
had the right equipment, to ensuring
proper briefings and scheduling we were
the backbone that supported the Regi-
ment’s move. Things like
travel, accommodation, and
ensuring all the necessary
resources were available
were all part of the mix.
As ■■■ as we were
with the operational tasks,
this year also saw some
significant changes in lead-
ership within Headquarters
Squadron. January saw
Major Steve Thomas retire
after completing his long
and successful career as
both a soldier and LE officer.
His leadership was the glue
that held the Squadron
together, it’s fair to say he set a high bar
for whoever took over. But as with all
things, change is inevitable, and Major
Thomas’s departure opened the door for
a new OC to take charge. Major Richie
Wales, fresh from the RDG, stepped into
His leadership
style is direct,
practical, and
exactly what
the Squadron
needs
the OC role. A big believer in teamwork
and open communication, the Squad-
ron’s focus has been on maintaining and
developing interdepartmental communi-
cation, better enabling the Squadron to
work as a united department.
At the same time, WO2 Andrew
“Smudge” Smith, the
Squadron Sergeant Major
(SSM), also stepped into
civilian life. He’d been an
excellent SSM and had
built an impressive reputa-
tion for keeping everything
running smoothly while
maintaining a good sense of
humour—something we all
appreciate when the going
gets tough. In his place,
WO2 Kieran “Tails” Taylor
has stepped up to the plate.
WO2 Taylor’s hands-on,
no-nonsense approach has
already earned him respect
from his wider team. He’s made sure
that the NCOs remain focused and disci-
plined while also ensuring that everyone
stays motivated during the ■■■ times.
His leadership style is direct, practical,
and exactly what the Squadron needs to
It’d been a very very long day
21
The Xmas day O-Group
continue meeting the OC’s intent.
This year also saw two fresh depart-
ment heads arrive, both of whom have
already made significant contributions
to the Squadron’s success. Captain
Mark Speight RDG joined the Training
Wing, filling the long-standing gap in
the training officer post. Captain James
Rosendale HCR also joined the team
as the new Squadron 2IC / MTO, taking
over from Captain Ross Hopkins before
quickly deploying on Op CABRIT(P) with
C Squadron. Both have quickly become
an integral part of the leadership team,
and we’re looking forward to seeing their
impact in the coming months.
As we wrap up another year of tasks,
operations, and leadership changes,
Headquarters Squadron can look back
proudly at everything we’ve achieved.
From supporting Op Interflex to preparing
for Poland, we’ve faced every obstacle
with determination and a bit of humour.
With a Squadron full of motivated indi-
viduals, we’re ready for whatever comes
next. Here’s to another year of success,
challenges, and triumphs—bring it on,
2025!
RW
Strong plank