Page 11 - The Bugle 2018

reassuring to know that The Rifles remains amongst the best recruited Regiments in the Army and in a comparatively strong position when compared to the poor manning situation experienced across the Infantry. Never has it been more important for every Rifleman to put his shoulder to the recruiting wheel and I will look particularly to the Commanding Officers for their increased involvement in this area in 2018 because the situation demands it.
You will recall that building an ability and reputation for marksmanship must underpin our esprit de corps as a Rifle Regiment. I am therefore delighted to see that all five of our Regular Battalion Shooting Teams have progressed through their respective Brigade and Divisional Competitions and will compete at Bisley later this year. This is a first in my experience and I am also particularly pleased to see that 8 RIFLES came fifth in its respective Divisional competition so early in its history. With 4 RIFLES winning the 1st Division competition and both 1 and 2 RIFLES coming in the top five, and with 3 and 5 RIFLES placed within the top 10 at the 3rd Division competition we have a realistic chance of mounting a serious challenge to the Gurkhas for positions in the Army 100.
Last I should like to make special mention of our Regimental Secretary. Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) John Poole-Warren assumed this appointment in 2006 and he has been a massive influence and force for good in establishing the Regiment and managing it so well since formation. He retired in June this year and we wish him and his wife Sue happiness in their retirement. All Riflemen owe him a huge debt of gratitude.
Next year heralds the integration of women into the ground close combat role and we seize the opportunity this brings and be at the vanguard of change in line with our progressive attitude. So congratulations on what has been a very successful year – there is much to look forward to in 2018.
Swift and Bold.
General Sir Nicholas Carter KCB CBE DSO ADC Gen
NEXT YEAR HERALDS THE INTEGRATION OF WOMEN INTO THE GROUND CLOSE COMBAT ROLE
RIFLEMAN’S GATHERING
Saturday 20 July 2019
ASSOCIATION
The annual Rifleman's Gathering will take place at Allianz Park, London
1400 to 2000
Book tickets today on SWIFT www.TheRiflesNetwork.co.uk
CAMPING • FOOD AND DRINK • RUGBY • SOUNDING RETREAT