Page 29 - Example Journals

The Regimental Journal of The Light Dragoons 2015
As the end of 2013 approached, the horizons of 2014 prom- ised much for A Sqn. Our transition to Light Cavalry would continue into January before we embarked to Gibraltar on Ex TARIK PATROL in February and March. This was going to be the Squadron’s highlight of the year since we missed the opportu- nity to exercise in Canada alongside B and C Squadrons the year before. However, as we returned from Christmas leave the stars appeared to align for A Sqn and 2014 turned out to be a very dif- ferent but quite extraordinary year.
In early January we were told that instead of deploying to Gibraltar, A Sqn would be participating in Ex ASKARI STORM in Kenya as part of 2RGR Battlegroup as a mounted reconnais- sance sub-unit. We jumped at the chance since not only was Ex ASKARI STORM an excellent training opportunity but we were to be the rst mounted recce sub-unit to be fully tested in the hot and unforgiving terrain of Kenya.
And so, with rather interesting discussions regarding the most suitable methods of outmanoeuvring an angry elephant herd, we jumped straight into the thick of it. As I reported in last year’s Journal, A Sqn was due to complete their Lt Cav conversion in style. We had the very good fortune to take advantage of the opportunity to re the rst Lt Cav Annual Crew Test and associ- ated LFXs in Warcop. This new ring progression was due to hit the printing press, but required a team to test the theories behind its design. The idea was to steer Lt Cav live- re training away from existing but rather unimaginative infantry owned serials and incorporate elements of mounted direct re training that the RAC were renowned for. It helped of course that the OC was the previ-
LCpl Thorley and Tpr Owen land a big one
Sqn Ldr
Sqn 2IC SSM
ous SIG at AFVGS but nonetheless, A Sqn was able to lay claim to the rst Level 6 Lt Cav ACT pass but also the rst Level 3 failure! The crew later redeemed themselves with a ne Level 6 pass.
After our hugely enjoyable live- re package we turned our atten- tions towards Kenya. With not much time to play with, the SHQ team sought to get things turned around and link in with our 2RGR friends who are based in Folkestone. Given the restrictive
The ISR Task Force, Op ELGIN, 2014
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