Page 74 - MERCIAN Eagle 2021

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MT Platoon
Capt Jones
Since the last addition of the MERCIAN Eagle, the MT Pl has seen its fair share of changes in personalities. CSgt Marlow has moved over from 1 LANCS and taken over as MT 2ic from CSgt Shirton who has now left the Army after a full career. Also new to the Pl are Pte’s Nordon-Guest, Bowness, and Williams.
We have said a farewell to Pte’s Smith and Crossdale who have chosen to leave the Army. We wish them and their families all the best for the future. We also want to send our best wishes to Cpl Kilby and LCpl Knight who will both be leaving us as they take up new postings. Cpl Kilby will move to Kenya with his family as the driver training NCO for BATUK, while LCpl Knight and
his wife will move to SchInf (ITC Catterick), where LCpl Knight will be the SchInf Commanders driver.
The year has been very busy for the Pl both in Barracks and on Exercise. The MT dept was extremely busy in Kenya on EX ASKARI STORM 21/3. Initially taking over
a huge fleet of vehicles and stores before then deploying in the field as A1 Echelon. A challenging Ex with numerous setbacks and testing conditions, the experience provided
a real opportunity for individuals to grow professionally as well as to bond as a unit. Despite the testing circumstances every individual stepped up to the mark, facing new challenges and performing exceptionally.
On return to the UK Sgt Hoe had
the huge responsibility of planning and overseeing the battalion-led FHD Driver and
Commander courses in preparation for the OP TORAL. A huge logistical undertaking
to get the necessary amount of qualified personnel on a short timeline. Unfortunately, despite his hard work and excellent planning the deployment was cancelled due to all NATO forces pulling out of Afghanistan. However, taking this setback in our stride we quickly bounced back and accelerated towards our next challenge of returning the FHD fleet, and conducting the LSA&I and LEA in quick succession. A high tempo period during which every member of the team went above and beyond to achieve the task.
Following a well-deserved Christmas leave, a large part of the Bn has returned
to Kenya on the other side of Ex ASKARI STORM to fulfil the role of Enemy forces for the PWRR BG. This has seen the MT Pl split into two teams, with one forward in Kenya and one rear in Weeton. The team that is in Kenya will soon be very busy, but as I write this article, they are making the most of their time and enjoying some quality Adventure Training. Meanwhile the team in Weeton are busy trying to draw the fleet down ready for the upcoming amalgamation. No small task.
THE MERCIAN EAGLE