Page 45 - The Royal Lancers Chapka 2018

REGIMENTAL JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL LANCERS (QUEEN ELIZABETHS’ OWN) 43
Eager to take advantage of the sub-zero December tempera- tures on Catterick Training Area, Sergeant Major Short took the squadron on a back to basics package of dismounted training. Low level skills and drills up to section attacks were taught and revised to ensure coherence across the Squadron (and also across the Regiment). The four-day package was challenging and ex- tremely rewarding in equal parts – reminding us of the benefit of low level training in our back garden!
As we neared Christmas Leave, Corporal Crook organised an excellent afternoon of paintballing for the Squadron at Adrena- line Yorkshire; a dangerous activity for Seniors and Officers as always, especially in the free for all!
As well as the usual festivities, Christmas week saw the follow- ing members of D Squadron recognised for their outstanding performances over the year, receiving a Commanding Officer’s commendation: Corporals Foster and Caton-Hewings, Lance Corporals Graham, Hughes and Horton and Trooper Thomp- son. A huge ‘congratulations’ to them.
Three weeks of leave were the reward for some excellent work from the Squadron since October.
The next year looks to be as busy as the last but with plenty of awesome opportunities in the offing including a three week de- ployment to Finland, multiple AT expeditions and a Squadron relay along the length of Hadrian’s Wall. As I hope you can see, D Squadron finds itself in good health.
Finally, at the start of February we were extremely sad to say goodbye to Major Alex Bowie who leaves us and the Army after nearly two years as OC D Squadron. We are extremely grateful to him for his work, time and patience! We wish him and Sarah good luck as they start a new chapter in their lives.
JA-I
Can anyone see the enemy?