Page 76 - RAPTC Number 102 2018/19

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12TH ARMOURED INFANTRY BRIGADE
On the 9 May 18, I arrived newly promoted to Warrant Officer Class One (SMI) to the 12th Armoured Infantry Brigade (12X) headquarters, assuming the role of Bde SMI. 12X is
an operational warfighting brigade and has so far completed 18 months of a two-year readiness cycle.
So, what does that mean? 12X commands five regular combat units and one reserve unit; each unit has an RAPTCI, gymnasium and a strict PD policy, ensuring soldiers across the Brigade are ‘fighting fit & fit to fight’. My initial impression of the Brigade and the Brigade Commander was excellent; clearly this was a formation which supported PD to the highest levels.
Prior to my arrival the SMI post had been gapped so I relied on support from 3 (UK) Division’s SMI, WO1 (SMI) Gaz Halliwell, and newly posted SO2, Maj (MAA) Boocock. Both pointed me in the right direction ensuring 12X were abiding by the 3(UK)XX policy.
My first task was to introduce myself to the units. It is very important to provide the RAPTCIs, the Regimental 2ICs and the units the best PD support possible, which relies on establishing good working relationships. My first visit was to 1st Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment (1 YORKS), based in Warminster. SSgt Luke Spires was in the preparation phase for the YORKS’ 9-month deployment to Op CABRIT in Estonia, a multinational NATO tour. A very sporty unit with a strong chain of command, 1 YORKS was well prepared to tackle CABRIT 3. In addition to the deployment the unit was selected to receive an ERI as part of Project 3 of THOR. Sgt Dave Best has worked hard to create a rehab suite, which takes responsibility for the treatment and recovery of injured members of the rear party. The battalion will certainly benefit upon its return from operations.
I had the privilege of a change of scene with a visit to the Royal Lancers (RL) deployed on Op TOSCA, a 6-month UN tour of Cyprus. SSgt Steve Burnell organised an in-depth visit, allowing me to witness how the RL have used the tour to improve both fitness and health. A cracking visit to understand the day to day routine, whilst also benefitting from a 0600hrs PT session with the PTIs. The Commanding Officer has taken a systematic approach ensuring the triangle of PT, Health and Med are locked together. The cookhouse menus were healthy, with education on calories and types of food. This was a fine job by the RCWO. Additionally, the unit’s MO and wider medical chain is working to improve MSKI rates. The final part was a structured PD programme utilising APTS, along with outdoor pool sessions. SSgt Burnell provided me with
SMI Ex Snow Ace
SMI PES Training Day
a business case to improve the facility, and upon my return and with the support of 3 (UK)XX we managed to secure funding and the Gym has now seen a huge transformation, allowing all units in the future to operate efficiently.
1st Battalion the Scots Guards (1SG) replaced the RL on Op TOSCA, which allowed the 12X unit to follow suit making beneficial adjustments. SSgt Graham Thomas has served with 1SG for almost 24 months. He deployed to Cyprus ensuring the unit was compliant with the policy and ensuring a safe environment. Just before their deployment I had the privilege of attending their inter- company boxing competition, seeing the Guards display their skills and fighting spirit. 1SG are due to return in Apr 19 after their 6-month tour.
I have had regular engagements with the Kings Royal Hussars (KRH) based in Tidworth, led in the gym by SSgt Becky Lincoln, who took over from SSgt Danny McAndrew. The KRH has recently deployed to Estonia on CABRIT 4, taking over from the YORKS. I look forward to visiting them in the spring.
1st Battalion the Royal Welsh (1 R WELSH), have also had a busy time, on operations in Estonia on Op CABRIT 2 then continuing to exercise in the UK. SSgt Dave Parish has worked hard in the unit gymnasium uplift to ensure the APTS can be endorsed.
Besides our five regular units, we also have 3 Royal Welsh, a Reserve unit based in Cardiff with outstations across Wales. Recently 3 R WELSH had the privilege of receiving former RAPTC
WO1 (SMI) T J Richardson MBE RAPTC