Page 69 - RAPTC Number 102 2018/19

The Battalion have just returned from a very busy period that saw 3 different Companies deployed on 3 separate Operational Tours ranging from Op Toral in Afghanistan, Op Shader in Iraq and Op Trenton in South Sudan. I remained back in the UK as part of the Rear Operations Group which allowed me to prepare the Gymnasium for the Unit’s return.
After returning from operations, the Battalion then deployed on EX GRENADIER CARVER, a skiing Exped where 270 soldiers travelled to Val Thorens, France to conduct SF1 & SF2 training. The exped was a huge success and allowed the Unit some much needed down time. Following this the Battalion were thrown back into life on ‘Ceremonial Duties’ under HQ LONDIST. This was an eye opener to see how quickly focus switched from Infantry Soldiering to State Ceremonials and just how manpower intensive the commitment is.
1st Battalion Grenadier Guards Gymnasium
Battalion Skiing Exped
Following a successful early trial of the APTS which was very well received and a structured PTP was implemented but now the focus switches to Guard Mounts and the Queen’s Birthday Parade in June, where the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards will be trooping the colour. The challenge now is to adapt the PTP to allow the Guardsmen to prepare for the big day whilst maintaining physical readiness to ensure they are adequately prepared for EX MAYAN STORM, Belize in Aug 19.
I had been warned of the intensity and pressure placed upon the Battalion selected to Troop their Colour at the Queen’s Birthday Parade (QBP). However, the Bn are still motivated to attend the various sporting events as well as preparing for the new Physical Employment Standards later in the year.
Battalion medals parade at Windsor
Commanding Officers Physical Training
1st Battalion Grenadier Guards on Op Toral
67
1ST BATTALION GRENADIER GUARDS
SSgt (SSI) D Fox RAPTC