Page 38 - QARANC Vol 14 No 10 2015

36 QARANC THE GAZETTE
Exercise Northern Wanderer 3 10th-14th March 2014
It is a privilege to have been volunteered to provide a brief but informative summary of the 4-night AT package! The Exercise was conducted at Capel Curig Training Camp (CCTC, 3* All Inclusive, sleeping system exclusive) located at the heart of the Snowdonia National Park, North Wales.
The week began at Gaza Barracks Gym as we gathered eagerly in the sunshine to await the arrival of the coach. Fortunately this weather, suitable for wearing shorts, continued for the duration of the week. As the start of my third week at MDHU (N), it was a great opportunity to meet and learn about others in the unit, develop myself and have fun doing it.
During the 3 hour 30 minute journey there was a short coach stop at Hartshead Moor Services, Brighouse. This allowed for a visit to the Army Medical Services (AMS) Memorial Monument. This commemorates the point on the M62 where on 4th February 1974 an IRA bomb attack on a coach killed 9 soldiers and 3 civilians, injuring more than 50 others. These individuals were travelling to and lived in Catterick. The monument is dedicated to QARANC, RAMC, RADC and RAVC.
Later that afternoon we arrived at CCTC, were shown to our luxurious
multi-occupancy accommodation with en-campshowerblocks,enjoyedthe first of many good meals and received an opening brief. Split into 3 groups, we were allocated an activity for each day: rock climbing, mountain walking and mountain biking!
Rock climbing, instructed by Maj Thompson and assisted by Pte Riches and Cpl Ellis, took place at Little Tryfan (Tryfan Bach), Ogwen. Between Maj Thompson’s calls at the Pinnacle Café, Capel Curig, the slab at the eastern foot of scenic Tryfan was conquered by each group. Up to 200ft rope climbs, abseiling and lower level free climbing occupied climbers of mixed abilities for over 4 hours. We quickly learnt that it is not solely about ability to climb but to persevere and ‘clink’ the loudest. An inspiring day that increased people’s interest in climbing and even encouraged others to purchase equipment!
On Tuesday evening all groups were invited to participate in Capt Charlesworth’s pub quiz with CO Lt Col Simpson in attendance. It was a fiercely competitive arena of fact finding, general knowledge brain bashing and group collaboration was key. However some opinions differed about certain answers due to that ‘gut feeling’. For example, “What is the price of a First Class stamp?”... When a Pte’s answer was put forward rather than the CO’s, and the CO’s answer was the correct
MDHU Northallerton’s visit to Sikh Guruduwara
Sikhs have played an important role, within the British Army, for the last 150 years. In both world wars, Sikh regiments fought for the British all over the world. At this time the number of Sikh’s volunteering for military service increased from 35,000 to 300,000. This great sacrifice was award with the presentation of 14 Victoria Crosses. Their bravery was also praised by Sir Wilson Churchill stating “As a result of their timely help, we are able to live in honour, dignity and independence”.
Despite the long and distinguished history of this service, there are only 265 Sikhs currently serving within the British army. Irrespective of the numbers, there are still misconceptions and a general lack of understanding on the religion and philosophy of Sikhi. Understanding diversity is an essential requirement with the armed forces to achieve operational effectiveness and maintaining the core values.
To overcome this, Soldiers from MHDU Northalllerton were invited to attend a number of presentations and Lunch at the Gurdwara in Newcastle on the 5th February
2014. This was kindly organised by LCpl Singh and hosted by Jagraj Singh. Upon arrival we all wore respective head dress and were welcomed into the temple by Captain Singh and the Sikh Chaplain for the British Armed Forces, Mrs Mandeep Kaur.
Firstly, we were provided with refreshments then escorted into hall where we intently listened to the first presentation hosted by Jagraj Singh on the philosophy of Sikhi. Mr Singh whom is an ex serving soldier highlighted how all Sikh’s must strive to abide by 3 basic rights which are; Freedom, Protection and Food. It is believed that by following these basic rights that no matter what race or religion everyone has equality. Sikhi also follows three principles; to live honestly, to remain in constant remembrance and to share with those that require it. Living by these principles allows Sikhs to have virtue, courage, discipline and respect for others which are vital components of every soldier within the armed forces. Mr Singh also voiced that because of their values Sikhs are able to participate in combat when all