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Welcome to the Spring 2014 Lowland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association Newsletter.
This is our first e-mail newsletter of 2014.
Covering key information, activities and events of units of the Reserve Forces and the Cadet Organisations, across the Lowlands of Scotland, our e-Newsletter will be published three times a year.
We would welcome feedback and contributions
Please provide any content for the next edition by 1st September to Naheem Waheed at lo-commsasst@rfca.mod.uk
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Lord-Lieutenant of Renfrewshire Mr Guy Clark
We would like to give a warm welcome the new President of the association, the Lord-Lieutenant for Renfrewshire Mr Guy Clark, who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role.
Guy Clark has been Lord-Lieutenant of Renfrewshire since 2007 and was Vice Lord-Lieutenant for 5 years before and Deputy-Lieutenant for 15 years before that.
He served in the Coldstream Guards for 6 years before moving to South Africa, where he built a career as a merchant banker with Schlesingers and Western Bank Ltd in Capetown and Johannesburg. On returning to the UK he joined the Glasgow firm of Murray Johnstone, engaged in investment and asset management. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Securities Institute and was formerly a member of the Stock Exchange.
A Justice of the Peace for the past 26 years, he served for 10 years as Vice Chairman of the Justice of the Peace Advisory Committee for Inverclyde and West Renfrewshire. He has served on the Executive Committee of Erskine Hospital, and is President or Patron of a number of voluntary organisations including the Army Cadet Force.
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Day 2 – After a wild night under canvas, a short hill climb for the employers accompanied by their Royal Marine hosts resulted in a fantastic panoramic view of the training area
March, April and May have seen the pace of life in employer engagement showing no sign of slowing down.
We attended the Chartered Institute of Personal Development annual conference in the Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow. Two days of networking with members of the institute who are responsible for the vast majority of Human Resource management in a wide variety of organisations across Scotland.
The “Ice” was a fantastic trip to Norway and an opportunity to show ten employers what being a Royal Marine Reservist was all about. To a man, the employers were impressed with all that they saw in this very harsh environment some two hundred and fifty miles inside the Arctic Circle.
The “slice” was a view of a cross section of reservist training that was witnessed by employers that were given an opportunity to visit the United Kingdom Reserve Forces Association Military Skills competition held in Edinburgh. The employers tried their hands at shooting on the very modern electronic indoor range and at the other end of technology witnessed reservists trying to send messages without the usual electronic gadgets: mobile phones, computers etc. having to make do with a couple of flags (semaphore to the un-initiated)
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Employers trying out the highly technical electronic range during their visit to the United Kingdom Reserve Forces Association Military Skills Competition. The Chief Executive was persuaded to act as demonstrator!
The “slice” was a view of a cross section of reservist training that was witnessed by employers that were given an opportunity to visit the United Kingdom Reserve Forces Association Military Skills competition held in Edinburgh. The employers tried their hands at shooting on the very modern electronic indoor range and at the other end of technology witnessed reservists trying to send messages without the usual electronic gadgets: mobile phones, computers etc. having to make do with a couple of flags (semaphore to the un-initiated)
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We have a number of works completed and underway, and the coming year promises to bring with it the necessary works to accommodate the changes announced under FR20
Royal Naval Reserve
Underway:
Construction of an extension to provide enhanced accommodation for the RMR in Colinton Road Edinburgh.
Additional Betterment Works at the RNR Centre, Birkmyre Road, Govan.
Army Reserves
Underway:
Further betterment works to specific projects at a cost of £220K.
Army Cadet Force
Underway:
New Headquarters for Maybole ACF (West Lowland Bn ACF)
Reprovision for Easterhouse ACF. (Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion ACF)
New joint Cadet Centre for Johnstone ACF(West Lowland Battalion ACF)
Kitchen and dining area extension at Gilbertfield CTC (Glasgow & Lanarkshire Bn ACF)
Completed:
New Headquarters for Beith ACF (West Lowland Bn ACF)
Air Training Corps
Underway:
New joint Cadet Centre in Johnstone (1701 Johnstone Squadron)
New Female accommodation block at RAF Kirknewton (661 VGS)
New Wing Activity Centre at Gilbertfield CTC (West of Scotland Wing ATC)
Completed:
Refurbishment of glider runways at RAF Kirknewton (661 Volunteer Glider Squadron)
Replacement Male accommodation at RAF Kirknewton (661 VGS)
Adaptations for Injured Service Personnel
Completed:
Internal alterations and extensions at properties in Bathgate, Erskine and Cleland.
Provision of paved garden access in Lanark.
Conversion of an existing en-suite into a full wet room in Cambuslang
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The Army Cadet Force Association (Scotland) held a Beating Retreat at Edinburgh Castle, performed by musicians aged from 12-18 from the Army Cadet Force, Sea Cadet Corps and Air Training Corps. Members of the public along with Lord-Lieutenants, MSPs and other members of the community watched the inspiring evening of military music on Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.
The turnout was substantial, with over 150 members of the public as well as an additional 100 invited guests, in the sunny evening to watch the Beating the Retreat by the massed Pipes and Drums.
The event gives the public an opportunity to enjoy the dedication and skill of young people from cadet detachments within local communities all over Scotland. |
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Soldiers of Ayr (The Earl of Carrick's Own) Squadron of The Queen's Own Yeomanry were given The Freedom of South Ayrshire at a special parade through the streets of Ayr.
Led by their Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Hugh Campbell-Smith, about 200 troops from the Army Reserve unit paraded through packed streets to the sound of the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.
His Royal Highness Prince of Wales, who also holds the title of The Earl of Carrick, is the Colonel in Chief of the Queen's Own Yeomanry, and was present to take the salute from the newly appointed Freemen of South Ayrshire outside the town's Wallace Tower.
Colonel Richard Callander, Squadron Honorary Colonel added: "The outstanding welcome that the people of South Ayrshire, and others who came to watch the Honorary Freedom ceremony, was very much appreciated by all the servicemen and women. The honour South Ayrshire Council has bestowed upon is means a great deal to all of us." |
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Volunteers from a variety of backgrounds joined reservists from HMS Dalriada and Royal Marine Reserves Govan, at a recent "Go Live" event providing an opportunity to be given a grounding in parade drill, search and rescue, fire fighting, weapons safety drills, trauma First Aid, teamwork and communication, sea survival and field craft, before taking part in a "surprise challenge" which put their newly acquired skills to the test.
The breadth of experience, combined with the day's training, resulted in the teams communicating effectively and dealing with their challenges successfully. Those who took part described it as a fun and active, yet extremely challenging day with one summing it up as "Scary, but cool."
"Go Live" events are being held at reserve units all around the UK, primarily to increase public awareness of the role of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Reserves, as well as part of a drive to increase recruitment to reserve units, who provide much needed support to their fulltime counterparts.
The event ended with the Commanding Officer of HMS Dalriada presenting certificates to the team members and nominated key players, as well as a buffet and the opportunity to visit the Combined Mess of HMS Dalriada, to socialise with their trainers and discuss the day's events.
The transfer of skills and experience from military to civilian roles and vice versa has long been valued by the reserve services and is being highlighted as a key benefit to both reservists and their employers. For anyone interested in taking part, the next "Go Live" to be held at HMS Dalriada, will be on 31 May 2014, call on 0141 445 6020 to book a space. |
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High Flying Borderers |
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| Sub Lieutenant Nik Wielbo and Midshipman Olly Leisk |
Sub Lieutenant Nik Wielbo and Midshipman Olly Leisk, now Royal Navy Officers are the only Trainee Pilots recruited to the Royal Navy in 2013 from Scotland & Northern Ireland and are two of only ten trainee pilots to be recruited by the Royal Navy in 2013. The chance of two former cadets from the local Galashiels Squadron making it this far is about 120,000:1. Competition for any Commissioned Officer post in the Services is particularly fierce at the moment, more so for Aircrew, and the likelihood of two ex-air cadets from the same squadron at the same time is remote to say the least.
Sub Lieutenant Nik Wielbo and Midshipman Olly Leisk are now approaching Flying Grading at RNAS Yeovilton. Both recently "Passed Out" from Initial Officer Training at Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth and are in the final phase of Initial Warfare Training. Six weeks of Initial Fleet Training for Olly was spent on HMS Daring, one of the new Type 45 Destroyers during its nine month deployment to the Pacific. Nik, who was also a Flying Officer in the RAF Volunteer Reserve (Training) and a Squadron Officer at 2180 Squadron spent his Initial Fleet time on HMS Diamond in UK waters. |
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2180 (Galashiels) Squadron Air Cadets Flying High |
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| Cadet Gavin Scott ready to board the aircraft at RAF Leuchars |
| Six cadets from 2180 (Galashiels) Squadron took to the air at RAF Leuchars on March 1st flying in the Grob Tutors of 12 Air Experience Flight which is located at the Fife airbase. After a period of instruction, the cadets donned flying suits, helmets, parachutes and life jackets for their first flight in the training aircraft. Barrel rolls, loops and the cadets flying the aircraft themselves was the order of the day. |
Entry Level Award Scottish Community Safety Network |
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| L-R: Cadet Stephen Donaghy, PC Gary Dinwoodie British Transport Police, Cadet Gavin Scott, PC Richard Downing British Transport Police, Cadet Leah Wishart |
Air Cadets from 2180 (Galashiels) Squadron have been awarded a grant of £250 toward the costs of a project designed to equip cadets with the Elementary Health & Safety Award.
The project will offer cadets the Entry Level Award in Workplace Hazard Awareness which is awarded by the British Safety Council. Cadets will complete the course over a period of time as part of their normal Squadron activities with a view to each participant gaining the award. |
Champions For Second Year Running |
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| L-R: Jamie Kelly, Tom Manson-Stubbs, Michael Birtwistle, Declan Broatch, Ryan Stockman, Jack Barnes & Aaron Kerr |
Seven air cadets from 2180 (Galashiels) Squadron beat the odds to retain their title of South East Scotland Wing Rugby 7s Champions for the second successive year. With no subs, vastly bigger and heavier opponents in the 2180, trailing by 2 points and less than 45 seconds left scored the winning try with the last play of the ball to beat 870 (Dreghorn) Squadron by 20 points to 17 to take the Championships.
Cadets from the Squadron are heading to RAF Benson in Oxfordshire for Summer Camp in June where they will fly in Merlin Helicopters and participate in a wide range of adventurous activities. |
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New Deputy Commandant |
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| Lieutenant Colonel Alan D Middleton MBE joined the West Lowland Battalion ACF as one of our deputy Commandants in September 2013. Many will know him as he had a long distinguished military career, mainly with the Royal Highland Fusiliers. |
51 Brigade Cadet Signallers Course |
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The West Lowland Battalion Army Cadet Force (ACF) hosted the second 51 (Scottish) Brigade Signaller Course at their Training Centre in Ayr, over four days of the October school break.
In attendance were numerous cadets from West Lowland Battalion ACF, many other ACF Scottish battalions, as well as cadets from 38 Brigade, 1 Northern Ireland Battalion ACF.
When the course ended their hard work paid off when many gained their Infantry Signalling (Cross Flags) badge. |
Gold Medal and Scotland Cap for Aidan
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The President of the Mess Committee, Major Gloria Burns, organised a very successful St Andrew Dinner Night, the first formal dinner night for a couple of years.
The Commandant presented the Lashbrook Trophy to Staff Sergeant Instructor Dougie Black, Adult Volunteer for their outstanding contribution to the Cadet Forces. Staff Sergeant Instructor Dougie Black has been greatly involved in the success of our Military Skills Team over the last couple of years. His Johnstone detachment continues to go from strength to strength – a well-deserved award.
Major (now Lieutenant Colonel) Alex McNamee was dined out. He came from Glasgow & Lanarkshire to the West Lowland Battalion around five years ago, taking on the role of the Company Commander of A Company (Renfrewshire & Inverclyde). He has now returned to Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion Army Cadet Force as their deputy Commandant. |
First Aid |
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All youngsters who join the voluntary youth organisation are required to undertake a two-hour Heartstart course as part of their basic training. This enables the youngster to potentially save a life as well as build their core skill set.
All senior cadets and the majority of adult volunteers hold a full "First Aid at Work" qualification, a transferable skill that is highly sought after by employers.
Each of the four companies entered teams into the competition in early January and the "top" first aiders will now train together under the First Aid Training Officer, Sergeant Major Derek Ross and his team of first aid trainers. The next round will be the Scottish Cadet Forces First Aid competition in June, then hopefully off to Frimley Park in the autumn to compete against the other army cadet districts and the other cadet forces.
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Bisley Here We Come |
Bisley in Surrey has been the home of target shooting in the United Kingdom since 1890 and the local army cadets have taken the first step to competing there in July.
Each of the four companies entered teams into the competition in early January. On the Saturday they fired the full-bore army rifle the L98A2 on the outdoor barrack range at Dechmont near East Kilbride. On the Sunday it was the turn of the .22inch No. 8 Rifle on the Indoor Range at Ayr.
The "top shots" will now train together under the Shooting Officer, Staff Sergeant Kris Fearon and his team of safety supervisors and coaches. The next round will be the Scottish District Shoot at Barry Buddon near Dundee in May.
If the District Shoot goes well, it is off to Bisley for the Cadet Force Target Shooting Meeting in July |
New Training Groups |
The New Year saw the introduction of new training groups for the West Lowland Battalion Army Cadet Force, with the battalion splitting into four equally sized training companies.
It was decided to change the titles of the companies to reflect the history and battle honours of some of the cap-badges within the battalion.
- Balaklava Company:
Captain W McPike, Lieutenant E Grady & Sergeant Major Instructor A Hamilton
- Kohima Company:
Major L Brough, Captain D Walker & Sergeant Major Inspector C McKim
- Inkerman Company:
Major G Burns, Lieutenant L Dick & Sergeant Major Instructor G Wakelam
- Minden Company:
Major R Mackie, Captain T Wilson & Sergeant Major Instructor W Kirkpatrick
All have had their first very successful training weekend of 2014 with the Training Centre bursting at the seams. |
Garnock Valley Official Opening |
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The Army Cadet Force was delighted when the keys to their brand new Cadet Centre were officially handed over on February 1st.
It was an incredibly exciting moment for the young people of Beith, Dalry and Kilbirnie when they finally realised they were going to have a purpose built space. Due to the large number of cadets attending the detachment every Wednesday night, they realised they might need to say goodbye to the Beith Chapel Hall, which had become their home for the last six years, after their former premises in Dalry had been vandalised.
The new building will now be known as "The Garnock Valley Cadet Centre" and will provide the Cadets and Adult Volunteers with the much needed support they have been anxious to have.
Local Councillor Jean Highgate and Labour MP Katy Clark joined actress Blythe Duff (of "Taggart" fame) as she officially opened the premises.
Blythe who is the Honorary Colonel of the West Lowland Army Cadet Force said; "What an exciting time to be part of this historic organisation. I realise how important it is for the cadets to have a facility which will fit in with all they need it to be. It sends out an incredibly strong message to young people that we think they are worth investing in. It is a reminder to the adult volunteers who give of their time so readily that we think they deserve to have a building fit for purpose. It also sends out a very clear message to the wider community that, not only is this area worth investing in, but their sons and daughters are too.". |
West of Scotland Achievers
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Sergeant (Air Training Corps) Simon Gilbert (above) was recently nominated for a South Ayrshire Youth Forum Award for his involvement with 137 (Ayr & Prestwick) Squadron, Air Training Corps (ATC).
South Ayrshire Youth Forum (SAYF) Awards aim to recognise the efforts and achievements of young people living within South Ayrshire. Sergeant Gilbert was nominated under the Citizenship category, for young people who show exemplary unselfishness in their role and who have overcome challenges in their own life whilst still making a difference in their community. Sgt Gilbert was selected as a finalist out of almost 200 nominations.
Cadet Flight Sergeant Cara Swankie and Cadet Flight Sergeant MacDuff nominated Sergeant Gilbert because despite working part time and studying for an Honours Degree, he always makes time to come to the Squadron with a smile on his face ready to get stuck in. He unconditionally puts the young people in the Squadron before himself and is never too busy to give advice or listen to a problem. Upon receiving the award Sergeant Gilbert said "It's a real honour to have the work I do recognised, not only by the cadets, but also by the panel of representatives from the voluntary sector and from South Ayrshire Council. To be selected as the winner of this award over the other finalists really makes you realise the value of the work all Adult Volunteers in the Cadet Forces do."
The Chair of the Judging Panel commented "The panel was extremely impressed by the nominations and delighted to see so many examples of enthusiastic, committed and talented young people. The finalists are all outstanding young people and we are delighted to recognise their contribution and achievements. Well done and congratulations." |
Gold Medal and Scotland Cap for Aidan |
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Cadet Aidan Crichton (15yrs) a cadet with 449 (Lanark) Squadron Air Training Corps has been selected to represent Scotland and Northern Ireland region at football after the results of a culmination of trials and matches.
Aidan was selected to play for the West of Scotland team, which won gold after 2 very hard fought games. As a result of these two performances, Aidan has been selected to represent Scotland & Northern Ireland region at the national competition at RAF College Cranwell in April. Aidan said after the competition "I am so proud to be selected again to represent my country at football and I am looking forward to the national competition".
Aidan is a keen young sportsman and has competed in various sports at many levels including squadron, wing and country and has gained 7 gold, 8 silver and 5 bronze medals following his sporting commitment to the cadets. |
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October
Early in October 2013, 8 members of the Squadron deployed to Afghanistan with 58 Squadron RAF Regiment. The Squadron’s first Phase 2 RAF Police Course commenced, due to culminate in April 2014. Successful completion will see the individuals taking the Service Police Oath and being presented with their RAF Police Warrant Card. A 3-man team travelled to Harskamp, Holland to participate in the 21st Reserves International Shooting competition.
November
November was dominated by Remembrance. The Squadron had contingents at Dundee Festival of Remembrance, Edinburgh Festival of Remembrance and Falkirk Festival of Remembrance as well as taking part in the Canongate Kirk service (Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle Church) on Remembrance Sunday, and being represented at Alloa and New Lanark. In the afternoon the Squadron and a contingent from 142 (Trinity) Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC) paraded with Squadron Association members at the 603 Squadron Spitfire Memorial, Edinburgh Airport.
On November 11th squadron personnel joined management and staff at Edinburgh Airport Terminal and at our Spitfire Memorial at Edinburgh Airport to mark the 2-minute silence at 11:00 am.
In November, Chief Instructor Flight Sergeant Hamilton, was presented with AOC 2 Group’s Commendation for his outstanding work as the Training Cell Senior Non-Commissioned Officer at 26 Squadron RAF Regiment.
December
Training took place at the Town HQ with Phase 1 Recruits, Phase 2 RAF Police and Phase 2 RAF Regiment continuing modular training. Trained personnel carried out weapon training on the General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG), Light Machine Gun (LMG) and Underslung Grenade Launcher (UGL) in preparation for the Annual Combat Marksmanship Test (ACMT) in Jan / Feb.
On the final training day of the year, Air Officer Scotland (AOS), Air Commodore Mayhew presented annual squadron prizes and awards, following which Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers served Christmas Dinner to the troops. The subsequent raffle and auction raised over £330 for Erskine Hospital. The Squadron Children's Christmas Party was held the following day.
January
A further two members of the Squadron were mobilised for deployment to Afghanistan with 34 Sqn RAF Regiment. The Annual Combat Marksmanship Test (ACMT) was completed whilst Phase 1 Recruits, Phase 2 RAF Police and Phase 2 RAF Regiment continued with modular training leading towards their Basic Recruits Course or respective Phase 2 culmination courses.
The training cycle continued through February and March with a further 7 Members of the Squadron mobilised in early March, giving a total of 17 personnel mobilised for Afghanistan, the largest number since Operation TELIC, Iraq, in 2003. |
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| Regimental Sergeant Major P D Colville receiving his Meritorious Service Medal from 51X Command Brigadier P K Harkness MBE |
We have now deployed our last 6 SCOTS personnel on Operation HERRICK with 4 SCOTS. They have all returned safe and sound, with the exception of Lance Corporal Carry who is still working with the RAF Regiment at Kandahar. Our focus now shifts to “return to contingency operations” as part of the integrated Army of 2020 – Regular and Reserve together. 6 SCOTS needs to stand ready to support our Regular counterparts on whichever operational deployment comes next for the British Army. This could be as early as 2015 for 6 SCOTS with the potential to deploy with 2 SCOTS back to Kabul.
Our Regimental Sergeant Major Warrant Officer 1st Class Colville, was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal (MSM) in the New Years Honours List; Commander 51 (Scottish) Brigade awarded Mr Colville his MSM in early February; this will be the Regimental Sergeant Major’s final achievement as a Warrant Officer 1st Class – he has been selected for his commission and will leave us in April 14 to become Captain Colville and the Unit Welfare Officer for 1 SCOTS.
Our people make 6 SCOTS and there has been no let up of quality and motivation from all members of each company and department, civilian and soldier alike.
- We have qualified 7 new Lance Corporals and have more lined up for their Potential Junior Non-Commissioned Officer Cadre.
- We have had continued attendance on the Platoon Tactics Course for Young Officers, Platoon Sergeants and Section Commanders.
- Colour Sergeant Nelson came top on his Mortar Platoon 2ICs course.
- Lance Corporal Cameron (A Company) was top student on the 1 SCOTS Signals cadre.
- Over 30 soldiers have completed the Reserve Combat Infantryman’s Course at Catterick.
- We came second in the Combat Sailing Regatta.
- We had two weeks’ good and challenging adventure training in June.
- We started a battalion football team and took part in the Spean Bridge Commando Challenge and the Cateran Yomp.
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| 6 SCOTS Cateran Yomp Team finished the 56 mile route in 19hrs – June 2013 |
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| 6 SCOTS colours march past HRH The Queen on the presentation of the Regiments Pipe Banner July 2013 |
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| Lieutenant Forrester, Capt Havelock and Warrant Officer 2nd Class Tuckey came second in the Combat Arms Sailing Regatta – May 2013 |
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| 6 SCOTS Officers Mess – St Andrews Dinner Night November 2013 |
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| 6 SCOTS on their Overseas Training Exercise in Cyprus August 2013 |
| The main event was the battalion Overseas Training Exercise (OTX) in Cyprus, Exercise LION STAR 7, and our first in five years. We also took 18 soldiers from 2 SCOTS, a great start to our pairing relationship. The training was going well, but the Syria crisis meant we had to cancel the exercise halfway through and leave Cyprus within 48 hours. We redeployed to the colder climes of Kirkcudbright in SW Scotland for the remainder of the exercise. We still achieved our training objectives, albeit in colder weather than we had hoped. Overall it was a good exercise where every part of the battalion was tested and we got back to the basics of infantry soldiering – living and working in the field. |
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| 6 SCOTS and their Royal Colonel HRH The Princess Royal in Garelochead March 2013 |
The UK wide recruiting effort for the Army Reserve – Operation FORTIFY - has slowly but surely gathered momentum and there is now a sustained and well-resourced recruiting campaign, designed to show that serving in the Army Reserve is an attractive and rewarding part-time career, which can benefit your main civilian employment. We have a good 30 strong 6 SCOTS team, assisted by colleagues from 2 SCOTS, solely focussed on recruiting new young soldiers. The end target is 30,000 deployable Army Reservists by 2019 – a challenge but we in 6 Scots are doing our bit.
This year will have its challenges:
- Maintaining the momentum required for the continued recruiting effort
- The transformation of 51 (Scottish) Brigade, responsible for Reserve units only, into 51 Infantry Brigade, a deployable war fighting Brigade, with both Regular and Reserve units
- Discovering the implications for 6 Scots of 51 Brigade’s responsibility for Defence Engagement in the Middle East
- The Commonwealth Games in Glasgow
- The Independence Referendum
The rewards will be closer work with 2 SCOTS and the mutual benefits that will flow from that relationship. Quality, well resourced, challenging and rewarding training will still be the bedrock of recruiting and retention. If we continue to get this right, get everyone engaged, 6 Scots will be ready to take its part in the 2020 Integrated Force. |
Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion Army Cadet Force
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Celebrating Success |
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| In January 2013, Glasgow & Lanarkshire Army Cadet Force celebrated the successful their cadets and adult achievements of BTEC awards, 4 Star APC qualifications and Lord Lieutenant Certificates. These awards were presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, pictured with Lieutentant Colonel Niall Archibald and Colour Sergeant Kieran Lowrie who was also promoted to Cadet Sergeant Major on December 14th 2013. |
Further Success By Glasgow & Lanarkshire Cadets |
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| Colonel John Kelly, as Deacon of the Trades House of Glasgow, hosted Glasgow & Lanarkshire’s presentation evening to celebrate further the achievements of cadets and adults gaining BTEC awards and 4 Star APC qualifications. These were fantastic achievements gained by all, and to be presented with them in such fantastic surroundings provided a memorable occasion for participants and their families. |
Three Generations of Glasgow Highlanders |
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Sergeant Alan Long of Glasgow & Lanarkshire's F Platoon Royal Highland Fusiliers based in Maryhill, is the third generation of 'Longs' to serve under the Glasgow Highlander title. Sergeant Long's grandfather, Cunningham Long (1904-1977 first photo) joined the 1st Battalion The Glasgow Highlanders, Highland Light Infantry around the early 1930s, when the battalion was based at Greendyke Street in Glasgow. In 1935 his grandfather moved with the Battalion to the new headquarters in Hotspur Street, now Walcheren Barracks. On the 2nd Sept 1939, the day before war was declared on Germany, Cunningham signed up to the regular army and was posted to the newly-raised 2nd Battalion, Glasgow Highlanders. However his service ended with him being medically discharged.
Following a spell of National Service, Sergeant Long's father (second photo) joined the 1st Battalion, Glasgow Highlanders at Walcheren Barracks in 1956 where he was given the role of MT Clerk, his old office now being the office for the signals platoon currently based there. He remained with the Territorial Army until 1960 and remains an active member of the Glasgow Highlanders Association.
As for Sergeant Long, (third photo) he joined F Platoon Royal Highland Fusiliers, formerly named Glasgow Highlanders, based at Walcheren Barracks in Maryhill as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer. With no previous military or cadet experience it was a steep learning curve for Sergeant Long. Having successfully established himself as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer. Sergeant Long decided to take on the role of the Detachment Commander in June of 2013 and has so far found it to be a very rewarding experience. He is currently pursuing a Cadet Forces Commission and hopes to achieve this in 2014. Sergeant Long is hoping for a return of the Glasgow Highlanders title to the unit, which would hopefully be styled F Platoon Royal Highland Fusiliers (Glasgow Highlanders). |
Scottish Police Recreational Association Event |
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| On August 18th, cadets and adults from D Platoon & F Platoon RHF helped out at the Scottish Police Recreational Association (SPRA) families event. Members supervised the participants taking on the challenge of the mobile climbing tower as well as having some fun on the inflatable obstacle course. This gave a perfect opportunity to showcase the Army Cadet Force and some of what it has to offer. |
2 SCOTS Open Day at Glencorse Barracks |
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| Sergeant Alan Long and cadets with Major Grant of 2 SCOTS |
On August 31st 2013, F Platoon Royal Highland Fusiliers supported 2 Scots with their open day and helped raise much needed funds for the Army Benevolent Fund and 'Support Our Soldiers-Scotland' to the sum of £5,898.21.
F Platoon Royal Highland Fusiliers secured the use of Glasgow & Lanarkshire's abseiling equipment and qualified instructor Staff Sergeant Tommy Traynor, to run a charity abseil at the event. In addition, the unit provided the battalion's mobile climbing tower and inflatable assault course which proved very popular and a winner for kids of all ages. The cadets worked very hard on what was a well-attended day. |
Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion First Aid Training |
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| Cadets and adults from Glasgow & Lanarkshire battalion successfully completed their first aid training programme ran by Lieutenant Frampton and his team, and were awarded a well-deserved pass. Sergeant Amy Wood commented that "first aid training has great value as it can be used in all aspects of our day to day life if required although we all hope that we will never be in such a situation that we have to use the knowledge and skills gained". |
Mount Everest Challenge |
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| Sergeant Alan Long, Detachment Commander of F Platoon Royal Highland Fusiliers and a serving Police Officer with the Scottish Police Force along with Sergeant Mhairi Jack are in training and fundraising for their trek to Mount Everest Base Camp. Their goal is to raise £4,000 each on behalf of Yorkhill Children's Hospital. This is a huge challenge in terms of the level of training that they have to undertake to ensure that they are fit enough to complete the challenge as well as achieving the £4,000 goal. We all hope they are successful on both accounts. |
Cadet Regimental Sergeant Major and Newly Appointed Deputy Commandant |
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Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion had the pleasure of appointing Lieutenant Colonel Alex McNamee as Deputy Commandant in October 2013. Lieutenant Colonel McNamee leaves behind West Lowland Battalion to join Glasgow & Lanarkshire and has already made a positive impact in his short term in office. The battalion also saw the end of term for cadet Regimental Sergeant Major Khan of E Platoon Royal Highland Fusiliers, pictured receiving his Military Skills Badge from Lieutenant Colonel McNamee.
New Officer Commanding for B Company
Glasgow & Lanarkshire's 'B' Company received a change at the top in October 2013. After 18 years of service within 'C' Company as Captain, Major Bob McIntyre took over as Company Commander and was received his promotion to the rank of Major. This was a great achievement for Major McIntyre and one that was well deserved. Major McIntyre received a small presentation from the cadets and adults of 'C' Company as a thanks for his dedicated support during his service with the company.
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Dining Out of Deputy Commandant |
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| On November 30th 2013, Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion Officers Mess had the pleasure of dining out Lieutenant Colonel Niall Archibald at the end of his tenure as Deputy Commandant. Lieutenant Colonel Archibald was succeeded by Lieutenant Colonel Alex McNamee. The Colonel and Officers of the battalion wished Lieutenant Colonel Archibald best wishes on his future endeavours. |
Poppy Scotland Collection 2013 |
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| Cadets from Glasgow & Lanarkshire Army Cadet Force gave up their time this week to support Poppy Scotland. This year battalion raised approximately £17,500. This was a fantastic amount which was well appreciated by the staff at Poppy Scotland. Despite being a wet and cold day, over 200 cadets turned out on the Saturday to lend their support and they received the very positive response from members of the public. |
Remembrance Day 2013 |
Officers and Adult Instructors of Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion Army Cadet Force (ACF) turned out in large numbers to take part in the Remembrance Day parade in Glasgow city centre. B Troop Royal Artillery ACF paraded with members of the Knightswood Branch of the Royal British Legion. These were just two of the many parades taking place throughout the country to honour the memory of all that have given their lives in past battles and to give thanks to those still serving in our armed forces.
B Platoon Royal Highland Fusiliers Support Blantyre Autistic Base
Colour Sergeant Andy McHugh and his cadets of B Platoon Royal Highland Fusiliers based in Cambuslang recently raised over £1000 for Blantyre Autistic Base, which will be used towards the building of a new soft play playground. Colour Sergeant McHugh received a visit from staff of the unit on December 2nd in order to officially thank the cadets for their efforts. |
House of Lords Debate on WW1 |
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| Following a Q&A session at Cadet HQ with representatives from each company within the Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion, two cadets Lance Bombardier Stanners and Lance-Bombardier O'Neill from A Troop Royal Artillery Army Cadet Force, were chosen to attend the forthcoming televised debate at the House of Lords, on whether it was right to go to war in 1914. It was a very lively debate and one where the two cadets from Glasgow & Lanarkshire performed well under the pressure. |
Ski Austria 2014 |
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On January 6th 2014, 41 cadets and 5 Cadet Force Adult Volunteers set off on a journey to the town of Kuchl in Austria to ski. This was a fantastic week for the cadets, learning to ski as well as improving their techniques on piste,as well as participating in sightseeing, swimming and karaoke off piste.
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Presentation Evening |
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On March 11th 2014, Glasgow & Lanarkshire Battalion Army Cadet Force hosted a presentation evening at their headquarters in Dechmont, Cambuslang to acknowledge the achievements of their cadets, adults and officers. The evening saw 24 cadets and one adult presented with their certificates from the Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, Mushtaq Ahmad, for Army Proficiency Certificate at 4 Star level, BTEC Level 1 in Uniformed Services, Outreach Support and Duke of Edinburgh Awards at Bronze, Silver and Gold.
In addition, Sergeant Tommy Traynor and ex-Cadet Force Adult Volunteer Heather Robertson were awarded the Lord Lieutenant Certificates for Meritorious Service; Staff Sergeant Raymond Bell and Sergeant Traynor were presented with their Cadet Forces medal for 10 years service; Major Robert McIntyre was awarded his first Clasp for 16 years service; Lieutenant Colonel Alex McNamee and Major Derek Balfour were awarded their 2nd Clasp for 25 years service and Captain Dean Simpson was awarded his 5th Clasp for 46 years service. This was a very special occasion for Captain Simpson as he is one of the longest serving members of the Army Cadet Force. Colonel Pat O' Meara commented that Captain Simpson is the only person that he has met in his cadet force career to be awarded the 5th Clasp. A very rare award and one that is well deserved by a very modest man. |
Artillery 2020 On The Alpine Race Piste
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The 105th Regiment Royal Artillery, the Scottish and Ulster Gunners, fielded an alpine ski racing team for the first time. Having gone through the reservist rollercoaster that is finding available individuals able to commit, a team was born consisting of three reservists and one regular. The regular officer was the Adjutant, Captain Chris Wane, and Reservists consisted of Major Brian Robson (BC 212 Battery), Captain Richard Butler (Regiment Operations Officer) and Acting Lance Bombardier Louisa Smith (207 Battery). All three had done some alpine skiing, but had never raced before. The team was financially supported by both public & non-public funds and trusts, including the Royal Artillery CPD, and sponsored by Wiredgov; all of which it was hugely grateful for.
For Lance Bombardier Smith, who has never served in the regular Army, skiing and socialising with her regular counterparts was particularly "enlightening". All three of the team new to racing found the training and demands of racing both physically and mentally challenging.
Opportunities such as alpine racing programmes run by the regular Army offer the same unique draw to reservists as it does to regulars. There will always be "reservist" challenges, undoubtedly the greatest being personnel availability. However, with a proactive and mature approach from both the organisers and participants, these challenges can be overcome. Allowing keen and available reservist individuals to join forces with another regiment would be a favourable method of ensuring reserve forces can become as fully involved as they can; 105 Royal Artillery certainly wishes to be fully involved next year and beyond. |
