The Magazine of The Royal Corps of Signals - Spring 2020
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Spring 2020 The Magazine of The Royal Corps of Signals
4 Exercise LIGHTNING STRIKE
Corps Formation: 28th June 1920
Corps Motto: Certa Cito Contents
102
Spring 2020 Volume 74 No: 1
Exercise
CARIBBEAN EXPRESS
Other Units 31
FEATURES Royal Signals Association 107
Last Post 111
New Year's Message from the Master of Signals 2
New Year Honours List 3 SPORT/ADVENTURE TRAINING
The Royal Signals Charity 3
Exercise LIGHTNING STRIKE 4 Basketball 19
Double Centenary Story 6 Exercise DRAGON SORBET 20 72
Royal Signals Cadet Competition 39 The Invictus Games 88
Queen's Gurkha Signals Attestation Parade 52 Exercise TIGER BRUNO SKIER 20 91 Horndean Detachment win
Royal Signals Cadet Competition
52
Service of Celebration 56 Exercise ADEN TIGER 2019 92
Reserve Corps Major becomes an author 71 Exercise DRAGON CRUSADE INCA 94 T he Royal Signals has been running an
Army Cadet Force competition for two
Exercise ARMY CYBER SPARTAN 79
years now, in a bid to encourage more
Exercise DIAMOND CRYSTAL CAST 98 cadets to understand communications, IT
and cyber. Horndean Detachment based in
Hampshire and part of Hampshire and Isle of
These Valiant Men - book release 90 Swimming and Waterpolo 100 Wight AFC were this year’s winner. The 30
Royal Signals cap badged cadets involved
are aged between 12 -18 years old and train
History of Signalling in 100 Objects 113 Exercise CARIBBEAN EXPRESS 102
once a week, taught by the dedicated adult
volunteers who give up their time to
encourage and support them. Other annual
and weekend camps teach them all aspects
of military training, but the service in
Salisbury Cathedral attended by HRH The
Princess Royal was a new experience for all
Service of Celebration, of them (see p.56-57 for full report from
REGULARS
Service.)
Salisbury Cathedral Mark Farmer, the Det Commander, has been
with the troop for 6 years and said, ‘I have
been extremely impressed with the cadets
Queen’s Gurkha Signals Attestation Parade
Corps Colonel Reserve Col Douglas presenting the prize to Mark Farmer
O
and staff today. This is the first time they n Friday 24 Jan 2020, the Queen’s Gurkha Signals Attestation and
Front Cover: Standard
Commissioning Parade took place at Gamecock Barracks, Bramcote.
have been involved in such a high-profile
event and I am very proud for them all.’ competition to win the The parade saw 69 trainees from Recruit Intake 2019 take their oath of allegiance
News from Training 8
Mark works as a project manager and was once a LCpl fabulous “Jimmy” to the Queen and the Regiment, in front of both current and past members of
Queen’s Gurkha Signals and their families, in what proved to be a marvellous day.
Bearers Ben Revell and John
with the Royal Signals Reserve, so his affiliation with trophy and see their Taking the parade was the Colonel of the Regiment QG SIGNALS, Major General JJ
the Royal Signals is long standing. Unfortunately, he is name in lights! It is very Cole OBE. Also in attendance were Commander QG SIGNALS, Lt Col H Stoy and
special to be able to Gurkha Major QG SIGNALS, Maj Dhirbahadur Pun.
News from Formations
leaving Horndean after this event on promotion, so the
16 Mumford. Photo by Cpl Luke
Corps wishes him all the best in his next unit.
Presenting the prize was our Corps Colonel Reserve,
welcome them to the
Corps Service of
Celebration Centenary
In addition, newly commissioned officers, Capt Hembahadur Rana and Capt
Jagatram Rai, were formally presented the Queen’s commission by Major General
JJ Cole OBE.
News from Squadrons 20 Molyneux. Back Cover: Photo
Col Douglas, she said “The Corps and I are extremely event in Salisbury in After the parade, those present attended a lunch before dispersing to their sub-unit
proud of the commitment and effort made by our order to present their locations. This was followed by an evening function for Recruit Intake 19 at the
cadets and their Cadet Adult Volunteers, who achieve prize.” camp’s Himali Club. The merriments continued well into the evening; the profound
Spring 2020 excitement and relief of the newly attested trainees was fantastic to see. Their
News from Regiments 26 by Sgt Russell Morrison
The Magazine of The Royal Corps of Signals such a remarkable amount every year and we felt this next step will be to undertake Trade Training at the Royal School of Signals in
should be recognised with an annual “Best Royal The competition win Blandford.
Signals Detachment Competition. I am absolutely was not the only thing
delighted to award the prize (for 2018 – 2019) to the the 30 cadets were
Horndean detachment who fought off tough celebrating, as they
have a new affiliation
with 3 (UK) Div Signal
Regiment. They will be
Editor: Amy Petersen Subscriptions: providing support to
the Detachment when
required, allowing
wire@royalsignals.org (preferred for submissions) All enquiries regarding subscriptions and changes of
soldiers to support the
wider Royal Signals
family. RSM Wildman from 3 (UK) Div Sig Regt said, ‘I am very
proud of this new affiliation. Horndean are a great
Mil: 94371 2817 Civ: 01258 482817 address should be made to Jess Lawson on Mil: 94371 detachment and the enthusiasm displayed by the cadets is
94 Exercise DRAGON
quite remarkable. I have no doubt we can learn a lot from
their commitment and dedication.’
39
2428 Civ: 01258 482428 or subscriptions@royalsignals.org All in all, it was an incredible day for the cadets who attended
the Service of Celebration well done to all those involved. If
SO3 Digital Communication
you are interested in joining your local Army Cadet Force or
Cadet Competition
indeed get involved as an Adult Volunteer, please go to this
CRUSADE INCA
website: www.armycadets.com
and Publications: Stephanie Hamlett Last Post: SPRING 2020 • THE WIRE 39
depcomm@royalsignals.org These will be inserted free to all past and present
Mil: 94371 2818 Civ: 01258 482818 members of the Corps.
I
t was very apt that amongst the 1,200 people who
packed into Salisbury Cathedral on Saturday 29
February were cadets, families, serving soldiers and
even World War Two veterans. In the presence of the
Colonel-In-Chief, HRH The Princess Royal and her husband
RHQ R SIGNALS, Griffin House, Blandford Contents: Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, they were there to
commemorate the sacrifices made by all members of
the Royal Signals family over the past 100 years since the
Corps’ formation in 1920. It was on 28 June 1920 when
Camp, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8RH Authors alone are responsible for the content of The Right Honourable Winston Churchill, as the Secretary
of State for War, signed the Royal Warrant which gave
the Sovereigns approval for the formation of a ‘Corps
of Signals’. Six weeks later in August, HRH King George
their articles. The opinions expressed in the V conferred the title ‘Royal Corps of Signals’. HRH The
Princess Royal has been the Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal
Corps of Signals since 1977.
Articles: articles of this publication are those of the indiv-
Although a service of remembrance, the day was also a
celebration that the Corps, despite being very different in
many ways to when it was formed, is still thriving and at
the forefront of 21st Century operations.
Please email submissions in Microsoft Word format, idual authors and do not necessarily reflect the
together with related photographs to the e-mail policy and views, official or otherwise, of the ‘A FITTING START’
address above. Digital images should be in JPEG Royal Corps of Signals or the Ministry of Defence. ROYAL SIGNALS 100
format, kept separate (and not embedded within the All articles and submissions are published at the LAUNCHES IN SALISBURY
By Major J Mayhead
article) and supplied with captions. discretion of the Editor. This publication may Accompanied throughout by the Royal Signals (Northern)
contain official information and should be treated
Band, a march-past which included 300 members of
the Corps both past and present, and Royal salute was
given to the delight of families and other onlookers. The
Cathedral’s stunning West Front provided the back drop
Contribution Deadlines: with discretion.
for the parade and despite the less than perfect weather,
the atmosphere was one of pride.
The day, established and organised by 3 (UK) Div Signal
10 December for publication in the Spring edition.
Regiment, was intended to be the launch of a season of
Royal Signals 100 events, but due to the coronavirus
(COV-ID 19) restrictions it may be the first and the last.
We also had the opportunity to involve the Army Cadet
2 April for publication in the Summer edition. Advertising:
Force, Horndean Detachment were awarded their prize
for winning the Royal Signals Cadet Competition. The
prize was presented by our Corps Colonel Reserve, Col
Douglas (see p.39 for full article).
2 July for publication in the Autumn edition. All communications regarding commercial Colonel Jason Gunning, Corps Colonel, said: “Today was a
truly significant occasion for the Royal Signals, celebrating
the past 100 years and the successes [the Corps] has
2 September for publication in the Winter edition. advertising should be made direct to
achieved in that timeframe. I am delighted to have been
part of such an impressive event.”
“In addition, to have our Colonel-in-Chief here alongside
depcomm@royalsignals.org.
her Corps family made the event even more special. A
huge thank you goes out to those who made the service
possible and to all those who supported the day”.
56 Service of Celebration
© Published by The Royal Signals
Charity royalsignals.org/rsbf/ Printed by Holbrooks Printers Ltd, Norway Road, Hilsea,
Portsmouth © Crown Copyright
A New Year's Message from New Year Honours List 2020
The Master of Signals PROMOTIONS IN AND APPOINTMENTS TO THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE MOST EXCELLENT ORDER
Lt Gen Sir Nick Pope KCB CBE OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE
As Officers
In 2020 our Corps, the Royal Lieutenant Colonel Thomas MORAN, Royal Corps of Signals
people from across the Corps to be STEM
Corps of Signals, celebrates its ambassadors to help other initiatives with
100th birthday. This is a huge young people. As Members
milestone. We’ve certainly come Captain Christopher Edward CROMPTON, Royal Corps of Signals
a long way since our forefathers For many, the highlight of 2020 will be the
Major Ashley JEYES, Royal Corps of Signals
passed messages using telegraph Corps Weekend in Blandford in June. This
Major Stephen LORD, Royal Corps of Signals
wires, pigeons and despatch gives us the chance to gather as a family,
to celebrate our common heritage and to Sergeant Jonathan Ian WHITMORE, Royal Corps of Signals
riders. In our connected and
look forward to an exciting future. There
congested twenty-first century will be a parade of Regular, Reserve,
world, the opportunities are Veteran and Cadet personnel, music by our
exciting, but the challenges are band and by our Pipes and Drums, and in
significant. Our Corps has had the evening a Party in the Park for all,
to adapt. So we now think of including families. For me the day will be
ourselves as cyber warfare
specialists ready to exploit
especially poignant, as after six and a half
years as your Master, I will hand the baton The Royal Signals Charity
to General Sharon Nesmith. She is entirely
technical opportunities and (previously known as the Royal Signals Benevolent
the right character to lead our Corps at the
counter the digital threats of Fund or RSBF)
start of its Second Century.
the modern era. How times
have changed. One of the biggest planned events is Project 204 – a to unit activities (celebrations, fetes, etc) and also
weekend’s music festival in August at Marston Lodge in In early February we officially changed our Corps heritage through the Royal Signals Museum.
In 2020, we will remember our history with pride. Whether we Leicestershire. The festival is open to all members of the name from Royal Signals Benevolent Fund Approximately 2/3rds of our annual budget goes back
are Regular, Reserve or Retired members of the Royal Signals Royal Signals family. We are expecting up to 5,000 people to to The Royal Signals Charity. into supporting the Serving Corps.
community, we will celebrate our achievements, our people hear some really big names perform on the main stage. So
and our role as the British Army’s vital link. And we will all buy your tickets early and let’s make this a real success story.
look forward to an exciting future.
Why? Where do your funds come from?
In 2020, we are also commemorating Royal Signals 100 in Our largest and most regular income source comes
In 2020 we will think global. Many of you will be taking part in other ways. We’re publishing a history of the Corps called The previous name caused a lot of confusion with
Certa Cito 100, the ‘around the world’ adventure training many people thinking the Charity was purely for from the Service Day's Pay Giving Scheme. It is
Roger So Far, and a second book which brings to life stories
challenge. This will see soldiers deploy on expeditions to 27 of the Heroes of our Corps. And we’re planning to enter Royal welfare purposes. In fact, the majority of the vital that soldiers support the Royal Signals Charity
different countries from America to Malaysia, from Greenland Signals teams in the Insomnia gaming festival at the National Charity’s annual spend is in support of the serving through this scheme to allow us to provide the
to the New Zealand and from the Middle East to South Africa. Exhibition Centre in Birmingham. support back to the Corps that we have already
Corps. We therefore hope that the new name will
We will climb mountains in Peru, canoe the Yukon river and described above. Note that if you have transferred
kitesurf in Oman. remove that confusion and allow people to better
Of course, none of the activities associated with Royal Signals
understand the support that we provide. We also into the Corps during you service, you could still be
100 come for free. We’ve benefitted hugely from the paying into your old cap badge’s charity! You have
Similarly in 2020, our sportsmen and women will take part in generosity of a number of our industrial partners. And The thought ... What better year to launch this than in
Exercise MERCURY LUDOS. Teams will compete across the our Centenary? to manually change your payment (but it’s easy to
Royal Signals Charity Fund - your Corps Charity - is more than do through your RAO). Of course, we also get our
globe. The rugby 1st XV will tour Australia. The football team playing its part. As a reminder, some 70% of the Charity’s
will be touring Thailand. The basketball team will travel to income from investments, legacies and donations.
annual spend goes directly back into the serving Corps. The Who is the Charity for?
America, which I reckon must be the most daunting challenge remainder supports Regular, Reserve and Retired personnel
of all time! who are in desperate need. This is our debt of honour. It’s From the moment you wear the Royal Signals cap You mentioned the Centenary as a great time
why being a member of the One Day’s Pay Scheme is so vitally badge, we will support you; serving or retired, for a name change… why?
Closer to home, there will be a chance to look back with pride important. regular or reserve, along with your dependants. We
at the many achievements of those who have gone before us. are one big family, and we do our best to support Because every Centenary event is being both
In February we will have held a service in Salisbury Cathedral In sum, 2020 will be a hugely exciting year, not just for Royal you if you need it. financially supported and facilitated through the
to remember those who have gone before us, and in Signals 100, but also because we’re at the threshold of a new Royal Signals Charity. Many might not be aware
particular those members of the Royal Corps of Signals who era with the pace of technological change faster than it has that Project 204, Certa Cito 100, Corps Weekend,
have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their nation. 39 Signal ever been. I know that the Corps will rise to this challenge and
What do you do?
special sports tours and unit events could not
Regiment will celebrate being excel as it has over its first 100 In addition to Welfare, one of our other main happen without the charity’s support. That is why it
given the Freedom of Bristol by years. It’s a great time to be in the objectives is the morale and efficiency of the Corps. is important that people support the Royal Signals
parading through the city. And in Update Royal Signals. To be “Technical
Blandford, Ex ROLLING THUNDER This includes financial support to Sports Clubs, Charity through the Service Day's Pay Giving as,
As at the time of going to print all events are First, and soldier always”. I wish
will give Cadets the chance to carry each and every one of you good
Adventure Training, Professional Development without it, our support for these activities could not
out communications, cyber and IT
now subject to postponement/cancellation due through the Royal Signals Institution (RSI), support happen.
to the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) health, happiness and prosperity
challenges. We’re also training 100 for 2020.
2 www.royalsignals.org • Facebook: Royal Corps of Signals • Twitter: @R_Signals • Instagram: @royalcorpssignals SPRING 2020 • THE WIRE 3
EXERCISE
LIGHTNING
STRIKE 2020
O
n the weekend of 15-16 February Blandford
Camp hosted Exercise LIGHTNING STRIKE, the
annual Corps officer cadet competition which
sees students from different University Officer Train-
ing Corps (UOTCs) and Defence Technical Undergradu-
ate Schemes (DTUS) compete against each other in
both physical and mental challenges. 150 University
officer cadets making up 13 teams took part. The
exercise introduces cadets to the diverse roles and
equipment of the Royal Signals.
Now in its 32nd year, the competition always reflects
the challenges the contemporary Royal Signals faces.
This year both Regular and Reserve units supported
the event, each offering a different perspective to
the students. Members from 13 Sig Regt ran a chal-
lenge called 'Advanced Jenga-neering' loosely based
around the wooden stacking game. The cadets had to
capture, process, generate and store data under timed
conditions in order to score maximum points.
Capt Miller said, “The cadets were amazing at this,
and we saw so much talent that would really fit well in
our Corps.”
The real physical challenge came from 216 (Para)
Sig Sqn who organised a log race. This very physical
team challenge always brings out the students' best
qualities, but this year Storm Dennis added another
dimension with the teams battling driving rain and
powerful winds. The team from Taurus Sqn, based at
Birmingham University were the eventual winners of
the exercise with OCdt Morgan saying, “Ex LIGHT-
NING STRIKE is a fantastic insight into the role of the
Royal Signals. Storm Dennis failed to detract from
what was an extremely enjoyable and challenging
series of tasks, which tested and developed phyisical
and mental robustness, as well as technical aptitude
and teamwork.”
All those who took part were really pleased to be able
to compete in this, our Corps centenary year and there
was undoubtedly a very special buzz throughout the
weekend. Capt Jack Ambrose, a member of the Royal
Signals Recruiting Team and organiser of the event
said, “We've battled Storm Dennis and been rewarded
with an event which has given the OCdts a real insight
into Corps life. Its challenged their teamwork abilities,
critical thinking and not to mention wet weather drills!
We've also had a lot of fun whilst doing it.”
Everyone is looking forward to 2021 when the event
will return.
4 www.royalsignals.org • Facebook: Royal Corps of Signals • Twitter: @R_Signals • Instagram: @royalcorpssignals SPRING 2020 • THE WIRE 5
DOUBLE CENTENARY Finding the need to embark on his chosen profession Jack
enlisted in the Overseas Civil Service with the aim to impart his
knowledge in Africa, also in the hope of meeting up with his
and indulged in his hobbies. Agriculturists will always love
their gardens and this he did with great enthusiasm. Jack’s
great love was to spend time with his wife Wendy, assisting
SHOWCASES A
Zimbabwean university friend. Jack was assigned and with her interests and spending time together, and helping
travelled to East Africa. with the ongoing issues of the local church. Jack and Wendy
did not stop travelling, now their destinations was nearer
REMARKABLE LIFE
Jack was off to East Africa and initially assigned to the West- home, Scarborough, Cornwall, Scotland, Channel Islands and
ern Territory of Tanganyika as a Ghee Grading Officer. He the odd trip to Tenerife.
travelled extensively to the region East and South of Lake
STORY
Victoria by long train journeys, inspecting locally produced Sadly, Wendy passed away in 2003, a great loss to all the
ghee. Jack also became involved in the massive vaccination family and everyone who knew Wendy.
By Ray Jeffery programme against rinderpest in cattle.
In 2015 and at the young age of 95, Jack decided to move into
Over the next 15 years, Jack was promoted a number of times, Middleton Hall, where his adventurous spirit remains intact;
and lived in a number of locations in Western Tanzania, quite in 2019 he undertook the challenge of swimming 99 lengths
A n extra special birth-
day party marked
a double centenary for
often without any shops, hot or cold running water and at
times no electricity, he was eventually assigned to the Agricul-
of the retirement village’s spa swimming pool in his 99th year.
Jack has retained his independence and is well loved and re-
ture HQ in Dar es Salaam. In 1953 Jack attended the Corona- garded by all at Middleton Hall.
Middleton Hall Retirement
tion of Queen Elizabeth II, he had won grandstand seats.
Village resident John (Jack)
During this period, Jack also met and married his wife Wendy, Middleton Hall Retirement Village near Darlington is
Wolstenholme, who shares
the daughter of his mentor Scotty Purvis. They were married located within 45 acres of woodland and parkland with
his 100th birthday with the
at Egglescliffe Church in 1958 and went on to have three sons. a choice of independent living accommodation and care
centenary of the Royal Corps
and accommodation available for those who require sup-
of Signals. A surprise birth-
In 1957 Jack represented the interests of Tanganyika at the port. Michael Hodgson, Middleton Hall’s Healthy Living
day party was organised by
International Dairy Congress in Rome. In 1961 Tanganyika (now Manager said “It’s an honour to host these birthday cel-
his family, the staff of Mid-
Tanzania) gained independence from the United Kingdom and ebrations for Jack, who is well loved and highly regarded
dleton Hall and help from the
in December of 1963 Jack, Wendy and family sadly decided to by everyone at Middleton Hall. Since moving here, he
Darlington Branch of the RSA.
leave East Africa. Jack took up a position with ICI, primarily has retained his independence and impressive zeal for life
in the development and forecasting of the global markets for and is an inspiration to everyone who has the pleasure of
The gathering, included the
fertiliser manufacturing for the global market. After a few knowing him.”
Vice Lord-Lieutenant of County
Far left: Gary Fletcher with the years, Jack foresaw the down turn for ICI in the manufacturing
Durham, Alasdair MacConachie
Branch Standard, Jack hearing and decided traveling time was here, and hit the road again. Below left: Jack wilst serving at the Training Facility in
OBE DL, the Mayor of Darling-
ton, Councillor Nick Wallis, part of his story from Ray Jeffery Fasano, Italy 1943/4
Left: Jack receiving his card from In late 1969 Jack was offered a position with in the Overseas Below right: Jack in New Delhi in 1946
the Second in Command of 50
Capt Barry Hunter Development Agency which was under the umbrella of the Bottom: Lady Mayoress, Mayor (Councillor Nick Wallis),
(Northern) Signal Squadron,
Photos by Stuart Boulton British Government. Jack’s role was always agricultural relat- Gary Fletcher with Branch Standard, Jack, Debby Lamont
Capt Barry Hunter and represen-
ed, dealing with a multitude of issues. These included, irriga- (Home Manager), Vice Lord-Lieutenant (Alasdair
tatives of Darlington Branch of the RSA,
tion schemes, forestry projects, livestock development and MacConachie OBE DL) and Capt Hunter. Photo by Stuart
together with their Branch Standard. In August 1943, Jack was seconded to industrial issues related to dairy products. Boulton
Special Operations Executive, princi-
The long story of the life of Jack was pally as a Signals Officer and instructor; In 1973 Jack was contracted to a private firm and spent 3
read out to the assembled guests and is during training at STS 54, the Inter years in Gambia, and then 2 years in Sierra Leone, always agri-
outlined below: services Signals Unit 6 at Massingham, cultural related. During this period Wendy was with Jack and
West of Algiers. the children were being educated in the United Kingdom.
Born on 16 February 1920 to the par-
ents of dad Fred and mum Bella, From December 1943 onwards Jack was The family returned to the United Kingdom in 1978, but after
Jack was the elder of two brothers, seconded to No 1 Special Forces unit in a short time, Jack decided that he needed to travel again. For
George being the youngest. The Italy, the Signals HQ in Monopoli, then onto the next ten years Jack took up long and short term contracts.
family moved to Oldham and Jack the SOE Signals School at Fasano, with a
was educated at Manchester Grammar school. mobile signals office near Siena, as Signals Jack and Wendy spent two years in Peru, on this particular
Intelligence Officer, Monopoli again from project no English was spoken. During this period the children
In 1939 Jack went on to study at Leeds University where he September - December 1944 and finally (grown up) remained in the United Kingdom. Jack had many
met who was to become a very good friend from Zimbabwe. at the SOE Signals School again at Fasano and later north of short term projects and visited many countries, often return-
He joined the university’s Officer Corps Training (OTC), and Siena. ing to countries where he had previously initiated projects.
during his time with the OTC Jack was taught in small arms
Jack spent time in Malawai, South Yemen, Iringa and West
and became a marksman, he also took on responsibility for Jack was then stationed with Force 136 in Ceylon, at the SOE Dodoma where he had worked previously. Jack also went
the training of other recruits. In 1941 Jack graduated from uni- Signals Office near Colombo from July 1945 - February 1946, he back and spent some time in Peru, and
versity with a degree. was then posted as Staff Captain to New Delhi in India dealing also rekindled his appetite for Tang-
with the closure of the Colombo Station. This was to be Jack’s anyika, his favourite place to see the
In January 1942 Jack was called to do military service and at last posting prior to his demobilization which took place in views of Kilimanjaro and drink the best
the call station Jack requested to join the Royal Corps of September 1946. coffee.
Signals, when asked why, Jack stated that his younger brother
and cousin were in the Corps. For his service to his country Jack was awarded the following Finally in 1988 and at the age of 68,
medals: Jack stopped taking on contracts that
Jack was then posted to 8 Corps Signal, 41 line section at
required him to travel, and retired,
Catterick Garrison. He completed his training in communica- • 1939 – 45 WW2 Star settling in Stockton. As is normal Jack
tions and was subsequently commissioned into the Corps in • Italy Star found himself with time on his hands
February 1943. • 1939 - 45 War Medal
6 www.royalsignals.org • Facebook: Royal Corps of Signals • Twitter: @R_Signals • Instagram: @royalcorpssignals SPRING 2020 • THE WIRE 7
After a hard day moving tactically around Blandford training
area visiting all 8 stands, Lt Col CL Jardine presented Best
Section to 7 Section, 3 (Harrogate) Sqn, with Best Troop
awarded to Ulster Troop and the Gordon Cup was retained for
another year by 3 (Harrogate) Sqn. Special mention to the
guest 23 Section (German Team) who battled it out for the
international trophy but were pipped at the post by the
Permanent Staff Section, who went on to take the overall
winner’s trophy.
7 Section Ulster Troop 3 (Harrogate) Sqn, with trophies for Best
Section, Best Troop and the Gordons Cup. Pictured from left to
right - back row: Sig Grove, Cpl Clare, Sig Buckingham, Sig
White and Sig Maxfield. Front row: Sig McCool, Sig Smith, Sig
Lynn, Sig Chandler and Sig Mordecai
5 (Maresfield) Squadron Remembrance
By 2Lt A Williams, TCC 105
On 9 Jun 19, 5 (Maresfield) Squadron, 11 (RSS) Sig Regt
departed Blandford for Maresfield, Sussex to continue a
tradition of visiting the village ahead of Remembrance.
The Royal Corps of Signals has history in Maresfield, having
formerly been home to the Royal Corps of Signals Training
Centre from 1920 to 1924. As an early location in the history of
the Corps, the Squadron maintains ties with the village. Firstly,
11th (RSS) SIGNAL REGIMENT, BLANDFORD
5 Sqn now carries the name of Maresfield, in honour of its
significance and attends the Remembrance service in St
Bartholomew’s Church as well as conducting community
engagement in the village.
CO Lt Col R Jacques-Grey RSM WO1 J Watson
2 (CATTERICK) SQUADRON Officers from Troop Commanders Course (TCC) 104 and 105
took part in various tasks around the village from cutting back
OC Maj L Creese SSM WO2 R Sinclair overgrown vegetation, tidying and polishing inside the church
3 (HARROGATE) SQUADRON – focusing on returning lustre to the memorial plaques – as
OC Maj C Northridge SSM WO2 S Summerfield well as leaf clearing on the grounds ahead of the
Remembrance Service taking place on the Sunday. The
4 (MILITARY TRAINING) SQUADRON community hosted 5 Sqn that evening with a quiz and some
OC Maj C Anderson SSM WO2 G Stewart fantastic hot food in the Village Hall which went down
incredibly well, especially with those who had been working
5 (MARESFIELD) SQUADRON
The SM with Rev Ben Sear and local MP Nus Ghani in the rain. The Squadron is very grateful to the people of
OC Maj M Thewlis SSM WO2 J Blackburn Maresfield for hosting them that night at an event enjoyed by
all.
Gordons Cup 2019
By Cpl Clare, 3 (Harrogate) Sqn Remembrance Sunday saw the Squadron at Maresfield Manor
where they took photos, along with the current occupants’
After many long nights conducting Troop training the event dog. They were hosted generously with a glass of port before
had finally arrived. The Gordon’s Cup took place on Saturday beginning the march down to the church for the
12 Oct 19. This annual military skills competition, Remembrance Service, delivered by Reverend Ben Sear.
predominantly designed for Phase 2 soldiers allows them to Readings from representatives of TCC 104, 105 and the Sqn OC
put their basic training into practice, conducted by 4 (Mil Trg) formed part of the service where all were invited to reflect on
Sqn on behalf of CO 11 (RSS) Sig Regt, Lt Col CL Jardine. those who lost their lives in war.
The aim of the competition was to provide Phase 2 soldiers After the service all attendees were invited out to the war
It was a very well organised event. Once my Section had
with a challenging but stimulating military skills exercise to memorial in the church grounds, where the last post was
completed the assault course their tails were up, they could
enhance their leadership, physical/mental robustness and played, and the two minutes silence was observed in memory
smell victory; to give them credit they had the idea of winning
overall team ethos. 2 (Catterick) Sqn and 3 (Harrogate) Sqn of those who fell. Wreaths were laid by the OC, the Reverend
in their heads from the get-go. My section performed
battled it out over a 12-hour period. The competitors were and local MP Nus Ghani.
exceptionally and put in maximum effort no matter the task
assessed at Section level while conducting 8 stands, which which earned them the accolade of Best Section. You could
included the Assault Course, the Quick Attack Estimate, BCD/ We would like to thank the village for hosting 5 Sqn for
see the pride in their faces when each of them was presented
MATT 9, Call for Fire, Bayonet Range, Map Marking, SERE and Remembrance and their endeavours to keep links with the
a CO’s coin for excellence with Sig Mordecai saying, “this is
Pistol Shooting. Corps strong.
the best thing I’ve done in the Army”.
8 www.royalsignals.org • Facebook: Royal Corps of Signals • Twitter: @R_Signals • Instagram: @royalcorpssignals SPRING 2020 • THE WIRE 9
Exercise SCARBOROUGH LEDGER 2
By Sgt (SI) Ridesh, 4 (Mil Trg) Sqn
Exercise SCARBOROUGH LEDGER 2 (SL2) was a Type 2
Adventurous Training (AT) package for all service personnel
from 4 (Mil Trg) Sqn which was held at Capel Curig, Wales.
Activities included mountain biking, rock climbing, hill walking
and gorge walking conducted on a one-day rotation basis.
Ex SL2 was organised by Sgt (SI) Ridesh Mukhiya aiming to
provide 4 (Mil Trg) Sqn members with the opportunity to
participate in a variety of AT activities to push them out of
their comfort zone.
Day One – Hill Walking
On Monday morning everybody was very keen to go for the
summit of Snowdon. It started from Pen-Y-Pass car park and to push our limits on two wheels. Everybody enjoyed the
after the initial orientation brief by Sgt Ridesh we headed stunning scenery, mountains and waterfalls during the course.
towards the summit. Everybody enjoyed fantastic views on
the way, towering almost 500m above the lake. There were Day Four – Rock Climbing
plenty of photograph opportunities for us along the route. On Thursday, we had a fantastic day in Tremadog, North Wales
Exercise HARROGATE FOLLY 2019 After refreshments and a bit of a rest we raced the Snowdonia to practise our rock-climbing skills for the second time. After
train and ended up at Llanberis. an uphill walk for 20 mins we managed to reach the site. A set
By Cpl Mills, Bx Tp, 3 (Harrogate) Sqn
up constisted of three difficulty levels of climbs and an abseil;
Day Two – Rock Climbing everyone made it to the top successfully. It was early morning
Exercise HARROGATE FOLLY 2019 was a CT Level 2 military
exercise designed to test Phase 2 trainees mentally and On Tuesday, we drove to Dinorwig, North Wales. The area was and demanding, however it rewarded us with spectacular
physically. It was a reminder of basic battle skills for surrounded by beautiful quarries and tunnels. The slates have views from the top and was an amazing experience. The day
imminent PNCO cadres as well as good preparation for future been quarried for at least 500 years and during the 19th and finished up with a lovely BBQ back at Capel Curig camp.
operations and exercises when they arrive at their field units. 20th centuries, provided most of the roofing used in Britain
The exercise was conducted over the period 6 – 8 Sep 19 and and is now a hydroelectric power station. Once the initial set Day Five – Gorge Walking
took place at Lulwoth Training Area. It saw the deployment up was completed, we conducted a short practice session The final day was fun with scrambling, swimming, jumping
of 90 Phase 2 trainees and 30 Permanent Staff with Phase 3 with WO2 (YofS) Jim Mackie to refresh our rock climbing and squeezing our way up the gorge in Afoun Dou. Everyone
trainees and JNCOs embedded within the sections as and abseiling skills. The climb was technical which massively was exited as it started to rain, and the gorge started to fill up
mentors. The overall coordinator was SSgt Thompson, from tested our rock climbing skills and determination to reach the with water. The event was short but sweet and overall a good
Battleaxe Troop, 3 (Harrogate) Sqn. top. experience. Without a doubt this activity stole the show.
The exercise started with a night-time insertion tab. Lessons Day Three – Mountain Biking After the activity we headed back to Blandford, re-energised
that were delivered by the Permanent Staff in preparation On day three we set off to Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park for a and ready to attack our commitments. Overall, it was a
were clearly utilised as the exercising troops moved straight day of mountain biking. After Sgt ‘Gaz’ Veneable confirmed fantastic and successful package that has certainly given us an
into tactical mode. Friday night consisted of locating, that we could all ride a bike, we headed down the forest trails opportunity to refresh.
securing and establishing a harbour and getting into routine
ready for Saturdays serials under the Plt Sgts and Plt Comds.
It was an early start on Saturday as most of the DS were kept Exercise SALAMANCA PALACE
up in the night not through stag but by SSgt Dale ‘Deputy By Sgt R Beckett
Dog’ Thompson’s snoring and Cpl Danny ‘Terry Tibbs’ Pain
sleep talking about ‘tugging’ at the Braemar Games. Early on the morning of 21 October, Civil Servants and serving
military personnel from across DSCIS and 11 (RSS) Sig Regt
There were four different serials throughout the day on deployed to Western Spain for a study on the Salamanca
Saturday; section attack lanes, with each consisting of six campaign which was part of the Peninsular war in 1812.
enemy positions, a casualty evacuation serial, a scenario
based on CPERS and a resupply serial. All serials were Before deploying, a pre-study of the era and the battlefields
thoughtfully planned to provide maximum training output, of Salamanca was organised by Capt Livingstone. This pre-
whilst testing the Phase 2 trainees. After each attack the their Platoons. On the Sunday morning 3 Platoons under the study involved a study of the campaign augmented with
Section Commander and 2IC were swapped, enabling the leadership of their Platoon Commanders successfully cleared scenes of Sharpe giving the King’s enemies the good news.
trainees to develop their command and leadership through 6 positions. OC 3 (Harrogate) Sqn Maj Northridge, SSM 5 Sqn After this each of us were allocated a specific aspect of the
exposure to Section Commander and 2IC appointments. To WO2 (SSM) Blackburn and the Troop Commanders Capt campaign to research and to present on the Battlefield Study.
ensure they were confident in their role and had a deep Robin and Capt Hall also deployed with the troops and This wasn`t what I had in mind when I signed up for this trip.
understanding, every attack and serial was followed by DS provided close monitoring throughout ex serials and observed
feedback and work on points. the full Platoon attack. On the morning of the deployment, everyone assembled at
our rendezvous point, with all bags packed, not forgetting our
A long but rewarding day came to an end with each Platoon It was a brilliant and a vital weekend for all trainees. The speedo’s for the presumed holiday. Mr Tim Rigby decided to
conducting reconnaissance patrols on Saturday evening. It exercise reminded the Phase 2 trainees of the importance of ignore the message of where and when everyone was
was a demanding task but an important one. Sunday came individual battle skills that they will carry into their future parading before departure thereby opting for an extra hour in
around quickly and we were into the Platoon attacks. The courses and units. It must also be highlighted that Sig Vijon bed, he eventually caught up due to some quick-fire logistics.
Platoon Commanders had delivered orders and fully prepared Rana, Lighting Troop was awarded the Top Field Soldier. Capt Maximilian Shapiro and his amazing The team arrived at the airport in good time despite the
technicolour chinos
10 www.royalsignals.org • Facebook: Royal Corps of Signals • Twitter: @R_Signals • Instagram: @royalcorpssignals SPRING 2020 • THE WIRE 11
hiccup. Capt Shapiro’s dress sense soon became the breakfast After 3 days at Ciudad Rodriguo the team then moved to the prevalent in his late brother Sig James Averill. Matty started
conversation, specifically his array of colourful chino’s. city of Salamanca, finally arriving after a slight navigational EW training in Blandford 16 Sep 19.
error, to conduct the final phase of the Battlefield Study. The
Upon arrival in Spain we were met by our tour guide, Mr Battlefield of Salamanca is unchanged since the 1800’s and The James Averill Memorial Trophy
Malcom Jones, ex Royal Signals, who escorted us to our first when coupled with Malcolm’s knowledge and expertise gave James was a talented, outgoing individual whose enthusiasm
area of interest, a fortified town named Ciudad Rodriguo. We a real insight and perspective into the battle that we were and humour infected all around him. A strong character and
visited various battlefields including fortifications and studying. natural leader, he was certain to go far in the Corps. Despite
redoubts, and we delivered our researched subjects, although his youth he was already making a name for himself within
of course our knowledge could not possibly match Malcom’s The exercise ended with a cultural visit into the town of the orienteering family and was destined to be one of our
who provided very informative briefs throughout. Whilst in Salamanca, which was centred around the city’s cathedral and most formidable future stars. During his Phase 2 training
the area we decided to try some of the local cuisine, one of provided the chance to relax and enjoy a social meal and James was diagnosed with leukaemia and as a result was
which stands out, as when it was ordered it was described as cheap beer as a group. I can gladly write that this time there medically discharged. The epitome of a British Soldier, James
chicken. We later found out it was the meat from the chicken were no chicken beaks in sight. was valiant, his resolve, determination and humour never
beak; the shared rooms smelt fruity the next morning to say waning. Sadly, James lost his battle in April 2016 leaving
the least. The following morning, the group headed back to Madrid and behind his parents Davey and Fiona and brothers Davey and
the flight home. Ex SALAMANCA PALACE gave a real insight Matty.
Before leaving Ciudad Rodriguo, Capt Livingstone had the into a battlefield that for many had not been covered before,
wise idea of organising a visit to a local chamber pot museum, it was also a great team building experience and brought To commemorate the life of James, The James Averill
which left some members of the group questioning their life member of DSCIS and 11 (RSS) Sig Regt together. Memorial Trophy is presented to the winner of the Novice
choices. Individual race by his father Davey at the annual Corps
Orienteering Championships. RIP James. This year the honour
of winning the James Averill Memorial Trophy went to LCpl Lt Col Streete (President R Signals Orienteering)
Buduja (3 Sig Regt). presenting the Major Unit Trophy to defending
champions 11 (RSS) Sig Regt
Exercise MERCURY CHAMPIONS 19
R Signals Orienteering Championships
By Capt Mallison, 3 (Harrogate) Sqn
11 (RSS) Sig Regt hosted this year’s Corps Individual and Team Thank You
Orienteering Championships whilst using the Individual A huge thank you must be given to two of our local
Championship to concurrently provide the first event of the orienteering clubs, Wimborne (WIM) and Wessex
UK South Orienteering League. The event was held 11 – 12 (WSX) for their support in running the championships.
Sep on Cold Harbour and Gore Heath, both areas of Wareham Special thanks must go to Mr Chris Branford (WIM) for
Forest offering unique physical and technical courses planning some excellent courses, Mrs Julie Astin (WSX)
providing a fair and challenging competition for all for controlling the event ensuring compliance with
participants. regulations, Mr Richard Keighley (WIM) and Mr Jim
Col Fensom (Outgoing Corps Orienteering President)
Graham (WIM) for providing the computing and results
Day 1 Individual Championships presenting Capt Mallison (above) and Sgt Gordon (below)
with their age category medals
team (Day 2) and the club members who volunteered
This year’s Individual Championships utilised a line format Capt ‘Davey’ Averill presenting the James Averill their time to help put out the controls and run the
where the competitors have a set order that the controls Memorial Trophy to LCpl Buduja starts on both days.
need to be visited. Courses were planned based on age
categories with the longest Brown and Blue coded courses Day 2 Team Championship
providing for the bulk of the age categories and the Men’s The Team Championship was held on Gore Heath, a
Open and Ladies Open respectively. A Red/Orange category challenging area not used for over 6 years ensuring no one
provided an introductory level course for Novices and Under had the home advantage and was in the format of a Harris
25’s. Relay. Originating in Germany and introduced to the UK in
the late 1980s by Lt Col Steve Harris, the Harris Relay
Despite a busy schedule, the close proximity of the requires planning and coordination under time pressure
championships enabled the Regiment to field 17 individuals, making it an ideal test for military personnel.
including Permanent Staff, Phase 3 trainees, and Hold Over
troops. The Individual Championships provided some tough The Regiment were able to field a Major Unit team, a Novice
competition with all competitors performing exceptionally team and an Under 25 team. The 11 (RSS) Sig Regt Major
well. A special mention must go to the novices who not only Unit Team consisted of a strong well-rehearsed core
ran well, but vitally, returned safely having enjoyed the element with the addition of Cpl Jiwan, this proved vital in
experience. the planning phase. The plan was implemented impeccably
resulting in 11 (RSS) Sig Regt retaining the Major Unit Title
Congratulations to Sgt ‘Flash’ Gordon (11 (RSS) Sig Regt) for beating 30 Sig Regt in to second place by over 60 minutes.
winning the M40 category and Capt ‘Mally’ Mallison (11 (RSS)
Sig Regt) for winning the M35 category and coming second The competition was fierce across all categories and the
overall, a mere seven seconds behind the Men’s Open Title Novice and Under 25 teams battled hard both securing
winner Sgt Birbahadur Rai (CyISOC). The Ladies Open title highly commendable second places and I would like to take
was retained by Maj Sally Calland, a mistake costing her rival this opportunity to congratulate them for their hard work.
and friend SSgt McCreadie (22 Sig Regt) a potential win.
A full breakdown of results can be found on the BAOC
Team 11 Major Unit Team - Capt Mallison, Sgt Gordon, Cpls
The Regimental Orienteering team would like to extend a webpage (Day 1) www.baoc.info and on the Wimborne Julian, Giri Gurung, Pettit and Jiwan. Under 25 Team- Sigs
warm welcome to Sig ‘Matty’ Averill who won the Men’s Orienteers webpage (Day 2): Brook, Anderson and Janson. Novice Team - Sigs Jones,
Col Fensom presenting Sig Matthew Averill with his
Under 25 Title and is displaying the attributes that were Men’s Under 25 Winners medal www.wimborne-orienteers.org.uk Whillans and Streather
12 www.royalsignals.org • Facebook: Royal Corps of Signals • Twitter: @R_Signals • Instagram: @royalcorpssignals SPRING 2020 • THE WIRE 13
Overall, the event was a success and enjoyed by all guests and
Permanent Staff alike.
On the sporting front, Sgt Barron led the Regimental team at
the Army Inter-Unit Water Polo Championships where they
went on to win first place in the competition making it three
years on the trot for 2 ATR!
The competition was split into two groups followed by a final.
After the first win against 11 (RSS) Sig Regt, they dominated
the Group beating RAC, Engineers and Artillery Regiments.
The team finished convincing winners of the group, which led
to the final against the Royal Tank Regiment, a team who
were beaten on Penalties in last year’s Final.
After a slow start to the
Final, the team managed to
Above: (L to R) Sgt Sarginson, WO2 pull away with some well
(SSM) Tuck and Sgt Tamani were invited worked team goals. This saw
to attend the Knaphill remembrance
1 (FOWLER) SQUADRON, service
the team crowned Army
Champions for the third year
Right: Squadron charity Gurkha night, running!
2 ARMY TRAINING REGIMENT raising funds for the Gurkha Welfare
ARMY TRAINING CENTRE (ATC) PIRBRIGHT
Trust As well as the high turnover
of recruits, there have been
highlights how the British Army is still numerous changes to
OC Maj EL Cameron SSM WO2 Tuck highly respected in the town of Ypres, Permanent Staff in the
Belgium. This is evident in the Last Post Squadron. Those leaving
Ceremony at the Menin Gate that has have made a hugely positive
Above pic: More than 54,000 poppies on display in taken place every night for over 90 years impact to the training teams
ATC Pirbright has seen an ever-increasing
remembrance of every single name written at the menin which the recruits also take part in and is and improved the quality of
number of recruits enter the training
gate memorial. The memorial commemorates the names of often said to be the training delivered to the recruits.
establishment thus 1 (FOWLER) Squadron has
Officers and Soldiers of the UK and commonwealth forces highlight of the trip.
seen an increase in tempo and certainly seen
its busiest period yet. Since the summer leave, who died in the Ypres Salient before 16 August 1917 and who We say thank you and goodbye to Capt Coles (RE),
have no known grave. Mather, Smith and Waters Sgt Martin (R SIGNALS), Cpl Hanson (R SIGNALS)
all five training teams have either successfully
Troops enjoyed a successful and Cpl Pearce (AGC(SPS)) but it’s not all doom
completed an intake or have started new
During the CMS, the recruits deploy on Ex VALIANT SPIRIT. trip and it was made more and gloom as we also welcome new instructors as
ones. Despite being fully locked into the CMS it
Values and standards are highlighted throughout the trip memorable by Rct Hallstead, their replacements; Capt Burlton (R SIGNALS), Lt
hasn’t stopped the Squadron finding time to
which allows the recruits to relate to the situation soldiers who brought along her Adeney (RE), Cpl Noel (YORKS), Cpl O’Shea (R
enjoy themselves and achieve some fantastic
would have found themselves in during WW1. The trip away Grandad’s Uncles’ ‘Dead SIGS), Cpl Sykes (AGC(SPS)) and Cpl Taylor (R
results.
from camp also allows them to travel to a new country and it man’s Penny’ and visited his SIGNALS).
grave in Lijssenthoek,
Mather Troop recently conducted their bayonet lesson and Belgium.
were lucky enough to have SSgt Coleman of the Chelsea
Pensioners join them for the lesson. She was in high spirits The annual Remembrance
even at the age of 87 years old and despite having two Day was conducted one day
titanium knees and two plates in her right hip, nothing was before the eleventh and the
going to stop her giving it a go herself. Her exploits were whole centre attended the
published in the Daily Express and went viral on the internet Brookwood Cemetery
with almost 1 million views. Remembrance Service with
three of our Permanent Staff
being invited by Knaphill council to attend the service in their
town.
During the busy CMS schedule, it is often hard to find times to
get all training teams together for a social function and let off
some steam, but Cpl Rai successfully did this by organising a
Squadron Charity Curry Night for the Squadron. The main aim
of the event was to raise funds for the Gurkha Welfare Trust
and at the same time enjoy the night with traditional
Nepalese food, melodious bagpipe music and the signature
Gurkha Khukuri dance. The Army has a close relationship with
the Gurkha Welfare Trust and they provide support to many
Gurkha Veterans living back in Nepal.
Above: The Sgts’ and WOs’ winter ball – 1 (Fowler) Sqn’s
Sgt Ingleby with the amazing SSgt Coleman of the Chelsea Permanent Staff, the highlight for the PS
The charity also helps fund projects across the country,
Pensioners, 87 years old, who attacked one of the stands Above left: 2 ATR winning the Army Inter-Unit Water Polo
Rct Hallstead visiting her relative's grave including schools and Army Welfare Centres. The charity was
with a bayonet fitted Championships
central to the relief operation after the earthquake in 2015.
14 www.royalsignals.org • Facebook: Royal Corps of Signals • Twit- SPRING 2020 • THE WIRE 15
ter: @R_Signals • Instagram: @royalcorpssignals
News from Formations
per day, the acres of tentage, the power required, the CFA visited some unit stands and had the opportunity to
number of eggs consumed... Of all the facts to focus on, the speak to some of the soldiers. He presented WO1 FofS (IS)
General had quickly established that 20,000 eggs over the Shaun Robson with the Master of Signals Commendation
period of ARRCADE FUSION 19 meant a whole shipping recently earned for his efforts on Ex JWA 19. In his final
container full of them and that each chef was cooking 100 address to the assembled elements of 1 (UK) Sig Bde, CFA
HQ 1 (UK) SIGNAL BRIGADE eggs a day. He quickly (Generals must be quick) worked out
that this must occupy 5 hours of work a day! SO2 Eggs, also a
man of impeccable military bearing, exploited the opportunity
described his vision for the increasing role the Royal Signals
will play in the way the Army operates. He conveyed the
belief that if we do not listen from the bottom up, if we do
presented and with a shout of “Carpe Diem” pitched the not become an organisation that is comfortable with change
requirement for more chefs and his solution to generate and innovation, then we will lose relevance. A thought
Bde Comd Brig J Collyer
The last few months have been dominated by renewable energy in the field with an egg shell composter! provoking end to a thought provoking day.
Ex ARRCADE FUSION 19 and planning for D Comd Col H Jenkins
the next deployment of HQ ARRC D Comd (Reserves) Maj E Heritage
Ex DEFENDER and Ex LOYAL LEDA.
Chief of Staff Maj Vanessa Freestone departed
COS
DCOS
Maj S Barker
Maj R Seabrook HQ 11 SIGNAL AND WEST
on maternity leave after Christmas leave. We
wish her and her family all the best for the
future. Maj Si Barker has made the move
MIDLANDS BRIGADE
from the safe zone of the secure Ops Room to
the COS’s chair and Maj Rob Seabrook has Exercise MERCURY CYPHER 20 Bde Comd Brig AJ Smith
been posted into the gapped post of Deputy By SSgt (FofS) Jim Gollop
Chief of Staff. Previously serving in the REME D Comd Col R Green
and AGC, he has the perfect background Last month 11 Signal and West Midlands Brigade organised COS Lt Col F Reid
knowledge to his role of controlling the G1/ Ex MERCURY CYPHER 20 – the new Royal Signals cyber
G4 branches in the Brigade. Maj Eric DCOS Maj F Pearce
competition to test teams from across the Corps, both
Heritage has been posted into the SO2 MS Regular and Reserve, against each other on a series of cyber Bde SM WO1 G Nobles
(Reserves) role, and although he has so far challenges. The inaugural event took place 20–24 January at
spent more training days in the Alps than the Joint Force Battle Labs in the Defence Academy
Innsworth, his experience is already being Shrivenham and is intended to become an annual competition
drawn upon for advice in much broader that can identify talented R SIGNALS tradesmen, develop
matters than just MS. Welcome to all. We their knowledge and be fun!
also wish Sgt Cherisse Coles and LCpl Alex
Thakuri well as they post out from the iHub The chosen ‘cyber-range’ was Project ARES, a virtual
to their next posts leaving LCpl Nicholas Amo application that generates different cyber scenarios, referred
at the helm. to as Battle Rooms or Missions, and sets objectives for
competitors to complete in order to gain points by attacking
or defending specific CIS equipment and networks, commonly
On 31 January, HQ 1 (UK) Sig Bde welcomed Commander referred to as gamification.
Field Army, Lieutenant General Ivan Jones CBE, to Imjin
Barracks. The visit of a senior officer is always preceded
by a flurry of preparation and activity. This visit was no
Ex MERCURY CYPHER in full swing
different: SO3s panicking about pie charts and bar
graphs, SO2s trying to distil the “3* issues” they have
identified from those statistics into 2 minutes of prose, With the field of Cyber Warfare now a vital skillset within the
SO1s preparing their pitches on why their projects should Corps, and strong interest from within its ranks, over a
be funded, COs arriving late, and the Commander hundred personnel volunteered for the competition. Teams
implacably calm as he presides over the rehearsal. The were divided into pairs and deployed on to the range to
final direction given, the adjustments to slides to be defend or attack the CIS networks of differing organisations
made, SO2s urged to be concise, the stage was set for from rogue nation defence forces to water treatment plants.
the arrival of the General. Players were scored on speed, accuracy, and efficiency, and
penalised if they used hints within the programme or asked
The morning of the visit brought with it the news that Athena, the virtual AI agent, to complete their objectives.
despite clear blue skies in Innsworth, CFA’s helicopter Teams remained competitive throughout, but it was the
could not take off because of the weather. It was said pairing of LCpls Kelly and Ellison from 216 (Para) Sig Sqn that
that SO2 Eng Maj Dave Clarke would do anything to get emerged victorious as Best Team, with the Cyber ISOC taking
out of hosting RAF Pilots, but hacking the Met Office is a Best Unit.
bit far-fetched. Being a man of impeccable military
bearing, the Commander strolled to the front door of the Top: CFA in discussion with personnel from 39 Sig Regt Empowerment – by Capt Parsons
Headquarters to receive the General 5 minutes before he Above: CFA presenting the Master of Signals Commendation to
was due. Being a man of equally impeccable military WO1 (FofS (IS)) Shaun Robson Over the winter the Brigade has hosted a team of consultants
bearing, the General arrived at the same moment. It was from McKinsey and elsewhere within the Army, who are
the last time the visit would run to time. The exchange the General including CEMA, cap dev for the ARRC HQ, the advising us how to improve our business processes. This is
of ideas was thick and fast, starting in the Brigade mantra for the day was G4 wins the war. The BEME was the part of a programme to ‘unlock creativity, innovation and
Commander’s office and proceeding to the Conference room next to brief after Ops had provided the Brigade operational productivity’ that will affect every unit and HQ within the Field
where the staff had their chance to make their mark. Concise context. Facts and figures to illustrate the logisitical effort LCpls Kelly and Ellison happy to have emerged victorious on Army, and may ultimately get taken up across the rest of the
briefs at the ready, an array of important issues to present to required to sustain a deployed HQ ARRC: the amount of diesel the first R SIGNALS cyber competition MoD.
16 www.royalsignals.org • Facebook: Royal Corps of Signals • Twitter: @R_Signals • Instagram: @royalcorpssignals SPRING 2020 • THE WIRE 17You can also read
