Page 58 - Cavalry Regiment

and LCpl Owen were the stalwarts of the A Squadron football team. More impressive than their football skills, was their ability, on the odd occasion, to get on the pitch before the Romanians! Sgt Macawai ensured that Rugby 7s took place each week, even encouraging some of the US soldiers to take part. Cpl Gurung, LCpl Marshall and Pte Glancy all kept morale high by cook- ing themed nights which were the envy of the other nations in the Battle Group. Full hog spit roasts and a Nando’s evening (other chicken restaurants are avail- able) were particular highlights. Cpl Khadka must also be commended for raising over £1000 for the Army Benevolent Fund by organising and participating in charity fitness events.
To turn to a sombre note, tragically, we did not return with our full number. Tpr Craig McLaren lost his life shortly after returning from the deployment in May. Cpl Ryan Lovatt of 2 Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, attached to the squadron for the operational deployment, was repatri- ated to the UK in August. They both remain sorely missed and never forgotten.
Having taken over the responsibility from the QDG, we also had the privilege of handing over to our broth-
ers and sisters in C Squadron. In addition to the profes- sional responsibilities, the ‘handover takeover’ period also allowed for a catch up with old friends whom, due to the sequential nature of the rotations, do not see each other for the best part of a year.
Operation CABRIT offers a unique and positive opportunity. An in-place vehicle fleet, with high avail- ability thanks to the Fitter Section, a training area on the doorstep and an endless list of prospects unique to Poland, all contribute to an experience that mem- bers of A Squadron will remember throughout their careers. The most inspiring, and indeed humbling, ele- ments of the deployment were the ever-strengthening cohesion, the pride and the effort put in by members of the squadron on a daily basis.
A Squadron enjoyed four weeks of well-earned leave on returning to the UK in October. Shortly thereafter, the Regimental re-ORBAT meant that many members of the squadron either left on posting or moved on to rebalance the manning across the Regiment. We wish them all the very best and every success in their new roles.
Lt Peppiat involved in an outreach activity whilst deployed
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