RHAA Newsletter 1 Royal Horse Artillery Association

NEWSLETTERMarch 2013, Edition 9

Royal Horse Artillery Association92nd Annual Reunion DinnerThe 92nd annual reunion of the RHA Association took place at the Civic Centre, Trowbridge on Saturday 6th October 2012. Our principal guests this year were Lieutenant General and Mrs Gerry Berragan. Lieutenant General Berragan is currently the Adjutant General and a former Battery Commander of E Battery RHA.

This was the first time the Association had held the reunion dinner at the Civic Centre since its refurbishment in 2011. As is customary the evening began with the presentation of the RHA Association ‘Whips’ competition trophy to the winning sub-section of the King’s Troop. This year the winning sub-section was C Sub-section led by the Number One, Sgt Pagan-Skelly.

Once the formalities of the presentation were over a total of 92 members and their ladies sat down to dinner. We were once again very fortunate this year to have the voluntary band of HMS Nelson, more than 20 strong, to play during dinner and they were, as ever, excellent. After the customary toasts to the

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Lieutenant General Berragan and the winning Sub-section

ContEntSForeword PAGE 2

Battery reports PAGE 4

oBituaries PAGE 20

staFF List PAGE 21

rHa Batteries iN arMy 2020 PAGE 22

ruFus writes PAGE 23

yesteryear PAGE 24

MeMory LaNe PAGE 25

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Remarkably perhaps, 2012 has been more settled than previous years. After the move of the King’s Troop from the ancient battery station of St. John’s Wood in February, much of the Regiment was involved in the Diamond Jubilee celebrations for Her Majesty The Queen and, of course, assisting with the London Olympics. The long awaited restructuring of the Armed Forces has recently been announced and for the RHA there are one or two surprises but fortunately no really bad news. Of particular interest perhaps (and some surprise no doubt!) will be the move of H Battery (Ramsey’s Troop) to 1st Regiment as an MLRS battery and the sad loss of guns for the ‘Gentlemen of Bull’s Troop’—who become the headquarter battery of 7th Parachute Regiment. For H, who have spent a great deal of their time from 1819 in disbandment, suspended animation or as an RA battery, this has been a remarkable turn of events. For Bull’s however, with one of the most distinguished records in the history of

W G ClarkeChairman, Central CommitteeRHA Association

A 13-pounder gun team of I Battery (Bull’s troop) RHA, Risalpur, north West Frontier Province, 1933

the RHA, it is a sad future indeed. A full account of the changes has kindly been provided by Brigadier Ian Harrison, currently Capability Director Combat Support at Army HQ.

On a brighter note, the Association continues to thrive and the membership remained fairly steady over the past year. Of the serving regiment, all our regiments are, as ever, busy with the business of training or providing reinforcements for other units and in some cases preparation for another tour of active service duty in Afghanistan. The King’s Troop is now firmly established in the RA Barracks at Woolwich with their new headquarters and stable area on Repository Road.

Memory Lane has a more mixed content this year including extracts from the Regimental Magazines of 1st & 3rd Regiments from the ′70s & ′80s as well as the front page of ‘Visor’ the weekly bulletin of 39 Infantry Brigade during the Op BANNER period of the early 1970s. For further interest I have included a new

section titled ‘Yesteryear’ which for 2013 features O Battery (The Rocket Troop), currently with 1st Regiment but formerly of 5th Brigade during World War One, indeed, until they departed for St. John’s Wood as the Saluting Battery in 1923.

Finally, our next AGM and annual reunion will take place at the Imperial War Museum on Saturday 21st September. This year it will take the form of a buffet lunch at about 1315hrs with the AGM preceding it at 1200hrs. Reunion tickets will also include admission to the Museum itself. Full details will be published in Gunner Magazine in due course.

Until then, may I wish you a very prosperous and healthy New Year.

Foreword

RHAA Newsletter 3

War Pension Advice

Any member who is in receipt of a War Pension may be entitled to the following:

Disabled Persons Railcard (Telephone 0845 605 0525, website www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk) and a Veterans oyster Photocard (Telephone 0845 331 9872, website www.tfl.gov.uk/tickets/14424.aspx) Queries and requests should be raised to the numbers shown above.

You will need proof that you are in receipt of a War Pension. Either the original letter notifying you of your entitlement, or in the event of you not having a copy of this information, contact the Veterans Agency (Telephone 0800 169 2277, website www.veterans-uk.info) for further advice.

Continued from front page

Royal Horse Artillery Association92nd Annual Reunion Dinner

General Berragan presents Lance Bombardier Bould with her trophy

i

course, to meet up with old comrades at our reunion dinners and events. His details are: Maj R J Whiteway MBE, The Hideaway, 18 Immenstadt Drive, Wellington, Somerset TA21 9PT.

royaL saLuteHidden behind high wrought-iron gates in a North London side street, overlooked by high-rise luxury flats and elegant Georgian terraces, was a small military barracks which, for more than 130 years, housed the saluting battery of the sovereign's household troops, and since 1947 was the home of the King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery.

Royal Salute, extensively illustrated with unique and insightful photographs taken mainly from the regimental archives, tells the story of the Gunners and horses who served over the years in this leafy and still tranquil part of London.

ISBn: 978-095207-624-7276 x 218mm (portrait), 144ppHardback, printed in full colourPrice: £15.99

Available to order from:Major W.G. Clarke199 Bulford RoadDurringtonSalisburyWiltshire SP4 8HBTelephone: 01980 653426Email: billc.ramblers@btinternet.com

Association and a final farewell to some distinguished absent friends, the guest of honour gave an excellent speech recalling his time and experience with E Battery and a résumé on the Regiment today, all of which was extremely well received with enthusiastic applause. The evening was rounded off in good style by the band, one of whose members gave an excellent rendering of the Post Horn Gallop.

As ever, special mention must be made of our dinner secretary, Major Dick Whiteway who organised the dinner with his usual flair and efficiency. It is hoped that next year the reunion will take place at a different venue and perhaps in a slightly different format, but will, it is hoped, be held at the same period in the year. Members will of course be kept informed of whatever is decided by the Central Committee.

Our Membership Secretary is always keen to hear from ex-Horse Gunners wishing to join the Association and of

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the King’s troop RHAThese have been a momentous twelve months for the Troop, undoubtedly some of the busiest in living memory for all those involved. The usual annual ceremonial commitments combined with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, commitments to the Olympics and topped off with a Unit move from the famous St. John’s Wood Barracks to our new home at the historic Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich saw the Troop spread over London and the south east of England for the majority of the summer.

The 6th February saw the end of 64 years of Troop hooves clattering around St. John’s Wood and its environs and the beginning of a new era, as the Troop moved into purpose build stabling for the horses and accommodation for the soldiers. With first rate training facilities on hand, the Troop sees itself in a strong position for future commitments but is still adjusting to new routines and procedures, most notably the issue of forward mounting all central London ceremonial events from Wellington Barracks which comes complete with the liaison between the Foot Guards and the Garrison Sergeant Major for detailed de-confliction for the Parade Square.

In May the Troop took centre stage amongst a cast of over 250 horses from

around the globe at the Diamond Jubilee Pageant at Windsor Castle, an equine celebration of Her Majesty’s reign. The summer ceremonial season brought together the Queen’s Birthday Parade and the Jubilee procession where the Troop fired a 60-gun Processional Salute from Horse Guards as part of the long weekend celebrations for the Jubilee in June.

As part of the Defence’s commitment to the Olympics the Troop provided manpower for venue security and contingency operations as well as

supporting the ceremonial side of the games with various flag raising teams, highlights of which include the opening ceremony and, fittingly, the equine events at Greenwich Park. A world apart from their usual daily routine the Olympics provided an opportunity for all involved to interact and soak up the unique atmosphere whilst those left behind at camp embarked on a busy summer of Drivers Rides in order that the forthcoming autumn ceremonial season as well as with the British Military Tournament could be met.

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A Battery (the Chestnut troop) RHAThe Chestnut Troop has completed Battery and Regimental gunnery training and another deployment to BATUS, this time in support of 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers (1RRF). September and October were spent recovering from BATUS with the RDG and then taking Summer Leave, but on 3rd November the Officers and SNCOs visited London with our wives for a wonderful evening of dinner in a restaurant overlooking the Tower Bridge before moving to the Tower of London for a private tour of the grounds, the ceremony of the keys and a few drinks in their bar.

The celebrations of the 219th anniversary of the foundation of The Chestnut Troop made for another superb day. The Regimental Sergeant Major was kind enough to allow the Battery use of the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess for the dinner and it made a wonderful setting. The honoured guests from The Rifles were Maj Neil Bellamy and CSjt Hayes of The Rifles, CSjt Hayes returning after having deployed with the Battery on Op HERRICK 11.

Gunnery training occurred on Salisbury Plain prior to deploying to Otterburn for the CO’s and CRA’s phases of Ex STEEL SABRE. The Tac Gp joined the Battery in Otterburn, following CAST and CATT in Germany; a credible performance meant the Tac Gp walked away with heads held high while the Gun Gp performaned very well indeed, especially with regards its speed of response and professionalism on the net; an excellent performance.

Immediately after Easter leave the Battery deployed on Ex PRAIRIE THUNDER 1, again with 1RRF and completed a revitalised 28 day exercise in BATUS and performed very well, again maintaining all the guns in action throughout the exercise.

So a very busy year for The Chestnut Troop has seen a significant amount of time away on exercise but because this the Battery is in a very strong position to step into our Mission Specific Training (MST) in preparation for our deployment to Afghanistan in 2013.

the BK, BSM, Gnrs Polius and Samuel represent the Army at tug-o-War

the BK leads the Battery through the ‘tab’ element of one of the Co’s infamous ‘Challenges’

A Sub firing in BATUS

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B Battery RHA

2012 has been a challenging and eventful year for ‘Super B’ which has been dominated by overseas training exercises (OTX) to both Kenya and Canada as part of the 1st Mechanized Brigades Adaptive Foundation Training year. During the second half of the year the focus has been on Mission Specific Training in preparation for the Regiment’s upcoming tour of Afghanistan (Op HERRICK 18) in April 2013. Also this year there has been the opportunity to enjoy the ‘stuff in between’ with the Battery celebrating Sahagun Day and making time for sport and adventurous training.

Kenya was a terrific opportunity for the Battery this year. Exercise ASKARI THUNDER 6 proved to be a thoroughly challenging yet rewarding six week exercise and it was the first opportunity for the Battery to exercise together, in role, for 12 months. The experience sharpened

technical and basic skills, both individually and collectively and the Battery was successful in its integration of Joint Fires and ISTAR in support of 2 SCOTS Battlegroup operations. At the end of the exercise The Battery embraced an excellent adventurous training package which included mountain biking, gorge jumping, safaris, rock climbing and canoeing against the backdrop of Mount Kenya. Just two weeks after returning from Kenya, thirty members of the Battery redeployed to Canada in support of Exercise PRAIRIE THUNDER. For the remainder of the Battery an intense course period ensued with almost every single member of the Battery completing a pertinent career course at some point during the year.

The Battery has maintained its strong reputation for sport this year. Of note, LBdr Bailey won his bout, to become the heavy weight champion at the RA Boxing

Championships. Several members have represented the Regiment at Tug-of-War and pulled at Braemar this year, and the Battery has had representation at both the Army Shooting and Royal Artillery Nordic Ski Championships.

The Battery is in a strong position for what lies ahead next year. The Gun Group has 12 months experience on the Light Gun already and has just converted the Regiment from AS90 and will lead the way on Op HERRICK 18. The Tactical Group is now affiliated with 4 RIFLES and, as such, is a part of the Brigade Advisory Group (BAG); this puts the Battery firmly on the ‘Main Effort’ as advisors to the Afghan National Army (ANA) for the tour. As 2012 draws to a close we owe the final thanks to our families and friends who have provided tremendous support to us throughout another demanding and challenging year.

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C Battery RHA

“Every man thinks meanly of himself for not having been in C Battery!” Anon.

Following a successful tour in Afghanistan in 2011, the Battery returned to Hohne in October to reform with the Regiment, celebrating our homecoming in style with a medals parade and Balaclava dinner. The Battery took to the Regimental Square to receive their well-earned tour medals in front of assembled friends and family. The Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff, Lt General Richard Barrons CBE, attended the parade and awarded the deserving recipients their tour medals. The Battery was then graced that evening with the presence of the Honorary Colonel, General Sir David Richards GCB CBE DSO ADC Gen, who awarded several promotions; unequivocally earned through endeavor, courage and selfless commitment on tour. The link between the past and present could not have been more evident; having returned from the modern day fight, the Battery took time to remember those who risked their lives, epitomizing the C Battery ethos and spirit some 157 years ago during the Battle of Balaclava.

Meriting special comment at the outset of this article is the pride the Battery has in the awarding of the Military Cross to Bdr Mark Carpenter in the Operational Honours and Awards list. Whilst on patrol on 16 August 2011, Bdr Carpenter demonstrated exceptional personal courage, crawling forward to rescue a 4 SCOTS comrade injured during a fire fight before carrying him back to safety whilst in full view of and under fire from the enemy. His actions that day saved the sergeant’s life and were in the very

highest traditions of the Battery, standing alongside any other feat of valor recorded during the Battery’s long history. It will remain a testament to the actions of both Bdr Carpenter and the Battery during Op Herrick 14 for those reading this period of the Battery’s history in years to come.

Having completed a well earned period of post operational tour and Christmas leave, the Battery re-gathered in camp in January fresh and rejuvenated. As is now the norm, the period immediately post tour is one where Battery personnel embark on a period of personal and professional development. Aside from some of the more perfunctory courses there was plenty of time for Adventurous Training, with C Battery soldiers deploying to America and the UK. EX Diamond Barbara in Cornwall was the focus of the Adventurous Training, boasting an array of extreme adrenaline fuelled sports. Surfing, mountain biking and coasteering, challenged even the most courageous and carefree soldiers of the Battery and was enjoyed by all. On the other side of “the pond”, Capt Nicol demonstrated admirable C Battery individual endeavor, some might say lunacy, by flying the Battery flag at 12000ft above sea level during one of her many solo skydiving jumps in California. The Adventurous Training was a great success, delivering just the right mix of challenge, personal and team development and a relaxed reward to those returning from tour.

Trailing Easter leave, the Battery deployed with the Regiment to the US

Army Training Area—Graffenwöhr in southern Germany. Graffenwöhr’s permissive training area produced some fine opportunities for technical and tactical gunnery and Joint Fires Integration for newly formed FST’s and gun group. The Battery performed well on the exercise, meeting the exacting standards and seizing the opportunity to practice the type of gunnery and integration so often forgotten about in today’s Herrick-centered training.

The Battery has continued to excel on the sporting front. With prodigious success in years gone by, the investment in time and effort in sport has continued. Battery personnel continue to play a full and active part in Regimental sports teams and the Battery has thrown itself at, and made time for, every sporting opportunity available. Regimental Boxing inspired a host of would-be boxers from C Battery to don the gloves and give the sport a go. Needless to say his deft coaching of the Battery team led to a comprehensive almost overwhelming success in the inter-battery boxing and a number of fighters selected for the regimental team.

Significant victories in Basketball and Swimming, and strong placings in the other inter-battery sports contributed to an overall victory for C Battery in the Commanding Officer’s Cup for 2012.

A Sub at Grafenwöhr

Bayonet Range Grafenwöhr

SSgt Rowell Jubilee Parade

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V Parachute Battery RHAby Major NJM Budd MBE RHA

The Battery has seen another varied and exciting year with soldiers involved in a wide range of activities travelling the width and breadth of the country. With Afghanistan in the rear view mirror and contingency looming up fast, everyone’s focus has changed and the pace has continued to be ‘fast and furious’.

Ex WESSEX THUNDER, a two week exercise supporting 2 PARA on Salisbury Plain, got the Battery back to good old fashioned light scale soldiering. The attached Omani Company, although not quite as well adapted to the ever changing weather on the Plain, meant for the chance to conduct low level multinational training. There was still the chance for a night insertion tab followed by the obligatory dawn attack. A successful parachute insertion along with a carefully coordinated fireplan ensured that the objective was secured in time for breakfast!

Those not fortunate enough to deploy to Salisbury Plain, supported Op OLYMPICS instead. Where the searching of vehicles and bags with RHA panache was perfected! After some well earned leave over the summer the Battery regrouped before again having to backfill

Army Steeplechase Champion.The A2020 restructuring unfortunately

bore some bad news for the Battery. It was announced that the Battery will, once again, be placed back into suspended animation as the Royal Artillery and the Regiment reduces in size. A slow transition will see all soldiers of V Para Bty move to other batteries within the Regiment in time for the lowering of the Battery flag in May 2013.

G Para Bty as part of the ABTF. Our experienced Fire Support Teams again showed their agility when working in the ever-changing role of the ABTF.

The Battery’s sporting prowess was again highlighted with Bdr Jeffries winning the Regimental Sportsman of the Year 2012. Another string of impressive wins was added to Bdr Jeffries résumé, including Gunner Cross-Country Champion, Divisional Cross-Country Champion and

RHAA Newsletter 9

E Battery RHAby Major NJM Budd MBE RHA

2012 has been a year of transition. It has seen E Battery progress from hybrid foundation training, where it established its generic war fighting skills, to mission specific training in preparation for a return to Afghanistan next year. It has seen the handover of the BC, BK, BSM and all FST Commanders, not to mention a host of others. This has all contributed to a challenging and full year, where the pace of life in ‘Shiny E’ has certainly not abated.

The training year began with Ex STEEL SABRE in Otterburn. Newly supporting 2RTR, this re-established the Battery’s foundations in the armoured role; having supported 4 RIFLES previously, this was something the Tac Gp has not done collectively for at least a decade. The training year has offered the Battery an invaluable opportunity to foster a strong relationship with 2RTR prior to Afghanistan. The cementing of this and the culmination of the hybrid foundation training, was the Battery’s deployment to BATUS in Canada. The majority of the Gun Group had in fact already deployed with the Chestnut Troop on Ex PRAIRE THUNDER 1 and were joined by the remainder of the Battery for Ex PRAIRE THUNDER 2.

The exercise gave the Battery the opportunity to demonstrate to 2RTR the full extent of our capability. And not only as an AS90 battery, but also in the delivery of joint fires as the Battery integrated DH31 detachments from 21 Battery RA—familiar to most from recent operations but now with the challenge of utilising them within the armoured role—and Light Weight

triumphed, making up the large part of the Regimental boxing team who won Royal Artillery Boxing Championship. The highlight of the evening was the fight between E Battery’s Bdr Porter and Bdr Yates. As best friends this was an extraordinarily hard and close contest, Bdr Yates just came out on top.

Maj Gareth Barber finished as BC in June. Maj Neil Budd took up the reins just before Canada and will take the Battery through Afghanistan. WO2 (BSM) Molloy had handed over to WO2 (BSM) Jeffery and has moved to RQMS(T) after 20 years in E Battery. To complete the trio, Capt Kurt Ray arrived in June as BK.

E Battery will return to Afghanistan in the spring, an operation that is likely to bring to a close a period of nearly 10 years of demanding tours that started in Iraq. The Battery is already well into mission specific training. The Gun Group has re-rolled to Light Gun and the Tac Group has adapted its gunnery skills to the demands of Afghanistan. It is clear that the coming 12 months will be as challenging as ever, but very different.

Bdrs Yates and Porter after battling it out in the final of the RA boxing championship

Counter Mortar Radar detachments from Z Battery RA. Designed for base protection in Afghanistan, this was the first attempt to use the radar in support of a manoeuvring battle group. The Battery fired the full spectrum of missions up to BC’s fire plans as part of massed Battle Group attacks. The Gun Group also re-rolled as infantry and having demonstrated their adept soldiering skills during the defensive battle were then launched by the Battle Group CO into a very successful and complex urban clearance operation. A great start point for transition into mission specific training.

The Battery managed some adventurous training in the wilds of Canada with horse riding and skydiving for the more adventurous. On the sporting front the Battery finished a respectable joint second in the inter battery Moore Trophy, with a win in the basketball and a joint first place in the football. LBdr Sharpe and LBdr Bradshaw have had individual success, being selected for the Army tug of war team and LBdr Hanlon represented the Royal Artillery at football. The Battery boxing team has

Sgt Edwards leads his patrol along the Roman Road in otterburn

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week of Battery training was followed by the CO’s challenge, a gruelling 24 hour navigation challenge around the area, consisting of river crossings, night navigation, obstacle courses and much more. The challenge eventually saw Bdr Sanno and his G4 team lift the trophy, the team showed true grit and determination throughout the whole event and put a fair few Tac Group teams to shame. Some more live firing saw the Battery reach the correct standard before the imminent deployment to Canada.

May brought the regimental PNCO and JNCO courses, in which the Battery took a significant role, with Lt Carter heading up the PNCO course. LBdr Adamson, as the best RHA

soldier on the JNCO course was duly promoted by the Commanding Officer and was presented with the “LBdr Chandler ‘Bing’ Memorial Prize” for his outstanding performance on the leadership course. All who attended these courses worked extremely hard and were a credit to their Battery.

Summer leave was enjoyed by all, before returning to the Battery for the hotly anticipated CT3 exercise that is BATUS. A small team headed up by the BK, deployed a week early to sign over vehicles and ensure the Battery fleet was up to standard. The Battery followed shortly after, eager to get started and tackle the challenges that would no doubt come their way as soon as D day arrived. The Battery deployed on D-2 all slightly nervous

D Battery RHA

It is fair to say that the intensity of life for the men and women of D Battery has significantly stepped up a gear this year. The Battery has immersed itself in training and reinvigorating core skills as close support Gunners.

March brought the first of numerous exercises that the Battery were to deploy on. Exercise CYPHER SWORD, a CT1 level exercise designed to promote detachment cohesion and a chance for crews to get back to the basics of gunnery. A modest amount of dry training with a significant amount of live fire returned the Battery to the standard attained at the end of last year and set the tone for the training year.

Easter leave was quickly followed by Exercise CYPER SPEAR, the regimental CT2 level exercise in Grafenwöhr, Germany. Where CT1 was relatively slow, CT2 ensured the Battery was thoroughly tested, working as a cohesive sub-unit and developing the skills from Exercise CYPHER SWORD. A busy

and anticipating what was to come. The gun group was tested, moving 3 or 4 times a day, undertaking a huge number of night deployments, making working together even more important. A significant amount of live firing brought the gun group up to impressive standards, and towards the end of the exercise even saw gun pits being dug, an emotional yet rewarding experience. The Tac Group enjoyed a variety of live firing and TES, being tested to the limit. When predictably the BC got a little too sharp and was ‘killed’, Captain Mardon stood up to the plate! A huge amount of training was undertaken and a huge amount was achieved, seeing the Battery gain a great report from the BATUS staff.

Since being back at Regiment the Battery hasn’t stopped, deploying again to Grafenwöhr and Larkhill and completing a very impressive Remembrance Day Parade at Hyde Park Corner. A final foray into light role soldiering saw the Tac Group deploy to support the Coldstream Guards on WESSEX THUNDER. Frankly biblical weather did little to dampen their spirits and yet more experience was gained from working with an utterly professional Battalion.

As the Battery moves into the busy period of MST, there is no doubt that your soldiers will put their all into everything that gets thrown at them with true D Battery gusto.

The Red Machine marches on!

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F (Sphinx) Parachute Battery RHAAnother energetic and busy period for F (Sphinx) Parachute Battery during which the men of the Yellow Dog have been operating all over the world. Throughout this term the Battery deployed to Kenya on Ex ASKARI THUNDER and also sent individuals to support Ex CRIMSON EAGLE, a JTAC and CCA training exercise in Arizona, USA. Whilst displaying the utmost professionalism and confidence on these exercises, there was also time for the Battery to relax and undertake some of the more “adventurous” activities during Ex SPHINX DILEGENCE.

On the 27 May 12 the Yellow Dog deployed to Kenya on Ex ASKARI THUNDER, a hybrid training exercise designed to test all facets the Battery. The OP Tac Group including 4 Fire Support Teams and the JFIC covered most if not all the ground on the training area calling in fire from the Gun Group in the opening BC’s phase of the Exercise. This was a time for the Battery to hone its skills and blow away any cobwebs before moving to the next phase of the Exercise in support of 1 Royal Irish Battle Group. However, before joining forces with the Irish there was a chance for the Battery to rest and regenerate at one of the areas leading Safari Lodges before moving

onto the demanding CFX phase. During this phase the Tac Group integrated well with their respected companies and laid the foundations for a successful final phase of the exercise. The FTX saw the Gun Group re-role as an enemy force while the Tac Group continued to build on their strong relationship with 1 Royal Irish. The performance of F Battery in all phases of the exercise was exemplary and strong bonds were formed between the Yellow Dog and 1 Royal Irish which has

created a solid stage on which to enter MST and deployment on HERRICK 18.

Upon return to Colchester in July, the Battery split sending individuals to support Ex CRIMSON EAGLE leaving the majority of the Battery to deploy on Ex SPHINX DILEGENCE. Those on the plane to San Diego were a combination of FACs and those attending the CCA course. For the remainder of the Battery Ex SPHINX DILEGENCE was a two week period organised by the Battery training office which would allow the men to partake in all sorts of activities ranging from Police Dog handling to Muay Thai and other martial arts. Other activates included working with close protection teams learning close combat skills and operating in skills houses. The two weeks were rounded off with the Coton Cup which saw the junior ranks beat the officers and seniors in a close fort competition.

The Tac Group now looks forward to a demanding period of pre-deployment training prior to its involvement in OP HERRICK 18 next summer. The Battery will now form part of the 1 RHA contribution to operations in Afghanistan in summer 2013. Meanwhile the Gun Group is expected to continue to support the challenges of a return to contingency operation with the Airborne Task Force.

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G Parachute Battery (Mercer’s troop) RHA

It has been a busy year for the men of Mercer’s with a number of commitments and activities. As expected the Battery has performed exceptionally well demonstrating the versatility and can-do attitude that characterises the airborne gunners. In taking over the role as the lead Battery of the Airborne Taskforce, Mercer’s have found themselves involved with a number of exercises to hone their gunnery skills and refocus on contingency operations.

Despite the congested programme the Battery has managed to excel in a number of extramural activities and tasks. One such example is that Mercer’s Gun Troop was proud to have been placed 1st and 2nd in the Regimental Best Gun Detachment Competition as well as providing the bulk of 7 Para RHA’s championship winning cross-country and triathlon teams, not to mention a number of key players to the Regimental Football Team which were last seasons Gunner Champions. The Battery even found time to significantly revamp its history room and it is now the envy of the other Batteries in 7 Para RHA thanks to the hard work of the men involved and the kind donation from the RA Charitable Fund.

To kick-start the summer, the Battery found the time to have an activity-filled adventure training week in Newquay

that included surfing, Go-Ape high wire course, mountain-biking and a rather ill-disciplined day of paint-ball! Just as the Battery was settling into being in-barracks before summer leave the call came for the ABTF to provide manpower to the London Olympics 2012. Most of the Bty were involved and despite the short notice they moved down to Stratford in good order and demonstrated exemplary standards of professionalism and conduct amongst members of the public. Everyone made the most of their time in Stratford and enjoyed the opportunity to be part of one of the biggest events this country is likely to experience for many generations.

Members of the ABtF deployed on op olympics

Ex JOINT WARRIOR

Gnr Dickson enjoying Go Ape during the Bty At week in newquay

Bdr Ellis during the Bty At week in newquay

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H Parachute (HQ) Battery (Ramsay’s troop) Over the past year H Parachute Headquarters Battery (Ramsay’s Troop) RHA have enjoyed a busy tempo taking the lead on a number of exercises on different training areas, most recently to Otterburn setting up Regimental Excon for Exercise Eagles Resolve. The departments work independently and it was good to see the Bty working together on different scenarios over the weeks. The exercises also gave the departments in the Bty a chance to run low level training utilising the medics, signallers and some senior members of the Bty, educating the younger members. Personnel were given the chance to ‘step up’ and demonstrate there abilities and potential for promotion.

Other activities have included P Company, Cadre Courses which have since lead to further promotions within the Bty with more to come. Trade courses, basic skills and driver theory training have played an integral part of the last year.

When the Bty are back in camp we

are lucky to have a number of ranges close to us, allowing personnel to work on marksmanship principles on a number of different weapon systems.

More recently the Bty has been involved with Op OLYMPICS, finding the majority of the Bty deployed at short notice. The Bty was quick and keen to react to this, splitting the personnel between Vehicle and Personnel searching. A lucky few found themselves with tickets to a number of events including the opening day rehearsal, the men’s 100m final, veledrome and aquatic centre.

Overall the Bty enjoyed a different sort of tasking, and thoroughly enjoyed the London 2012 experience.

Currently the Regiment is running an internal course period with members of

the Bty completing their GCS L2 course. Learning the theory behind the signals trade which included an exercise ran over night putting what they have learnt in to practice. It was great to see the young signallers develop their skills over the 3 week period.

Members of the Bty remain ready at R2 in the ABTF role, the remainder continue to support Regimental efforts. H Para Bty is facing a busy 2013 and looking forward to the challenges and opportunities this will bring.

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I Parachute Battery (Bull’s troop) RHA

With the return to contingency 2012 has proved to be as varied a year for the Gentlemen of Bull’s Troop as any in recent memory. During a busy autumn Bull’s Troop supporting 3 PARA BG Bull’s Troop set about re-establishing the ABTF. Through a series of CAST’s, live and dry BG exercises old lessons

were re-learnt and new lessons adapted from experiences in Afghanistan. On 1 Jan 2012 3 PARA and Bull’s Troop stood up as the ABTF ready to go. Unfortunately the call didn’t come and in May the responsibility for the ABTF switched to 5 SCOTS and G Battery.

Following the handover of contingency responsibilities the Battery headed to

Liverpool for a well deserved week of AT which took in a some high wire fun, a trip to a brewery and a special treat for the Man Utd supporters amongst the ranks a tour of Anfield.

On the return from Liverpool the Battery began to look forward to a long hot summer watching the Olympics, which

they did but from slightly closer quarters than most could ever have imagined. Whilst a small contingent of the regiment were always planning to deploy to Op OLYMPICS as the Opening Ceremony approached it became very clear to the organisers that something was missing—the airborne spirit and RHA style of Bull’s Troop and so the call came. Swapping Merville Barracks for Tabacco Dock and a 105mm for a Rapi-scan the Battery deployed to the bright lights of London and the Olympic Park for what can only be described as the experience of a lifetime. Whether meeting spectators on the main gates or watching events in the various stadiums and arena’s it was a privilege for the Gentlemen to be part of what certainly was ‘the Greatest Show on Earth’. Whilst Op OLYMPICS may not make the Battery Honour Titles it was a cracking way to finish another year in Bull’s Troop.

Sgt Colvin, Ex Joint Warrior

A ‘Blast from the Past’

E Sub-section of I Battery (Bull’s Troop) RHA, the first British gun to enter Germany with the Allied Occupation Force, pictured here at the frontier post at Poteau at 0900hrs on 1st December 1918

RHAA Newsletter 15

J (Sidi Rezegh) Battery RHAAs promised in the 2011 update, this year has proved to be both very busy and hugely productive on a number of fronts. We have given time to the soldiers to develop and build team cohesion within the Battery. This year has served to move our focus away from current operations and onto core training.

In March the Battery deployed onto the Bergen-Hohne ranges for a two week exercise that confirmed the Battery’s return to the armoured role. Over 1,000 rounds were fired and we blooded a number of new gunners and officers on both the gun line and on the OP ridge. It was safe to say after this exercise we were back in the armoured seat and ready for more challenges.

In May the Regiment held a firing camp in Grafenwöhr. This is a great US training area in the south of Germany. Again the guns were able to fire a reasonable amount of ammunition, but the Fire Support Teams had the chance to engage with American 155mm M777s, German PzH2000, UK mortars and coordinate all this with US and German jets. The training was joint and multinational, as it is on operations, and we all gained much from the experience. The Battery and Regiment showed it could deploy itself at reach and achieve a high level of training.

Finally in September the Battery deployed on Exercise PRAIRIE THUNDER 4 in Canada. Many of the Battery had already supported D Battery on Ex PT3, and in turn we received much support from our sister battery. The hard work and high morale of the gun group was evident to all who visited, whilst at the OP end we successfully supported the 3 MERCIAN Battlegroup in some complex operations.

Away from armour training, we have

managed to get a large number of soldiers away on career and trade courses. Many have participated in adventure training and we have been very active on the sports front, coming second in the CO’s cup. We even managed to squeeze in a Battery trip to Colditz Castle.

As 2012 draws to a close and 2013 dawns, we see our focus returning once more to Afghanistan and the final deployment of the J (Sidi Rezegh) Battery gun group on operations as it has been announced that from 2015 J (Sidi Rezegh) Battery will become a Tac Battery. The Battery has undergone much change in its history and this is but another step—the Battery has survived on the order of battle and will continue to display the standards and panache that it always has.

Sgt Jones contolling German Jets at Grafenwöhr

A gun of J Battery in the Direct Fire Role oP Ridge at Sunset

16 RHAA Newsletter

M (HQ) Battery RHAIt has been another interesting and diverse year for M(HQ) Bty with commitments varying from regimental CT 1 and 2 training to Bde CAST and deployments to Canada and Kenya; busy, yes; but enjoyable busy. The battery has also managed to conduct adventure training, celebrate the 203rd battery birthday and achieve success on the sporting field and in the field kitchen.

2012 kicked off in earnest with the celebration in late January of the battery’s 203rd birthday; a weekend of activities including a formal dinner in the WOs and Sgts’ Mess, a church service and a families’ party in the JNCOs’ Mess. With renewed pride in the battery (and slightly sore heads) the realisation dawned that 2012 also signalled the beginning of a new training year and an increase in tempo.

First on the agenda was the continuation of the HQ 7 Armd Bde staff training series of exercises, Ex STAFF RAT 2, 3 and 4, on the local training areas. These allowed the Bde HQ, including the Bde Joint Fires Cell, to re-acquaint itself with life under armour and planning bde operations, culminating in the testing Bde CAST in early May.

Hybrid Foundation Training began in March with the battery deploying onto the Bergen Hohne and Munster ranges for Ex CYPHER SWORD: a level one collective training (CT 1) exercise which allowed detachments to refresh their basic skills, some of which had not been exercised in earnest for quite some time.

On return from the exercise it was all hands to the pump supporting the QM’s and QM(T)’s departments who worked

their fingers to the bone preparing for the Combined Assurance Week. The work paid off and the regiment passed with greens across the board, thoroughly earning their Easter leave.

Following Easter Leave, all elements of the battery deployed south to Grafenwöhr Training Area in Bavaria and Ex CYPHER SPEAR: the regimental CT 2 exercise. Although mainly in an enabling role, the battery entered two patrols into the CO’s best detachment competition, acquitting themselves admirably—much to the disgust of some FSTs!

Summer heralded the beginning of the CAST and CATT HICON commitments which involved some members of the battery weekly commuting to Sennelager; many nights away from home but their fire discipline showed dramatic improvement! The HICON and enabling commitments continued with 22 members of the battery deploying to Canada as temporary staff in the arty safety group. They were swiftly joined by various members of bty HQ rotating through two iterations of HICON and some of the younger members of the battery deploying with the gun batteries to gain much needed experience. The final HICON commitments of the year saw a team deploy to Salisbury

Plain in support of Ex WESSEX THUNDER and bty HQ deploy to Kenya in support of Ex ASKARI THUNDER.

Away from work there have been many successes: Pte Gurung winning Combined Services honours on the badminton court; LBdr Ratumaisese representing the Gunners in rugby union and league (whilst still finding time to represent the battery in the boxing ring); members of the battery taking part in adventure training ranging from parachuting to hill walking in Bavaria; the chefs winning the Divisional and tri-service catering competitions and many others representing the regiment at cycling, basketball and cross country to name but a few.

We are now ready to enter Mission Specific Training for Op HERRICK 19. There are many uncertainties but the battery remains poised and flexible, ready to exploit the opportunities thrown up by a changing situation.

Bdr Powell’s patrol conducting the river crossing, Best Detachment Competition

LBdr Ratumaisese in the corner with the battery boxing coach, Bdr Berridge

LBdr Burke’s patrol on the command task stand, Best Detachment Competition

RHAA Newsletter 17

L (néry) Battery RHAIt is rather clichéd to say that we have been busy over the last twelve months, especially with the pace of life in the Army at present, but the extent of what we have achieved is notable. There has been attendance on numerous career courses, exercises both in the UK and overseas, individual and collective adventurous training; and the consuming efforts to lay the foundations in preparation for Op HERRICK in Afghanistan.

In February two Fire Support Teams (FSTs) from the Battery deployed to Kenya on Ex ASKARI THUNDER 6, in support of The Royal Highland Fusiliers, 2 SCOTS Battle Group. It was an excellent training facility which offered many new opportunities and challenges. Meanwhile, the remainder of the Battery attended 3 (UK) Division’s Ex STEEL SABRE in the sub-zero temperatures of Otterburn. The exercise saw the Battery expand their gunnery knowledge and skills, from conducting basic missions, to working up to Battery Commander’s (BC’s) fire plans.

A much welcomed Easter leave preceded immediate departure to Canada on Ex PRAIRIE THUNDER, in support of the Household Cavalry (HCR) Battle

Group, in the formation reconnaissance role. From the outset, the Battery was warmly embraced by the HCR and training emphasised understanding each other’s capabilities and seeking innovative and integrated use of armour, dismounts and joint fires.

The 1st September 1914 remains

an emotive date for all members and veterans of L (Néry) Battery and a day we commemorate each year. This involved an excursion to Néry, in France. The Battery studied World War I and L (Néry) Battery’s part in ‘The Affair at Néry’, as well as laying wreaths at both the French and British memorial sites. The entire occasion was an enormous success and a very fitting celebration of our Battery’s history. It also allowed us to meet some of our extremely loyal and dedicated L (Néry) Battery veterans. The serving unit keenly looks forward to commemorating the 100th Anniversary of ‘The Affair at Néry’ on 1st September 2014 with all our veterans and wider Battery family.

The final activity for the year was the parade to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s 60 year reign as monarch. Soldiers lined up to receive the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal, which took place on 8th September in Tidworth. A Families’ Day was also held to commemorate the occasion, which was an excellent opportunity to thank our families for the fantastic support they have given us throughout a very demanding year.

L Battery marching through néry

L Battery graves at néry

18 RHAA Newsletter

N Battery (The Eagle Troop) RHA has had a very busy and productive year. Eagles returned from a lengthy period of adventurous training and post-operational tour leave under the watchful eyes of Capt Newnham and WO2 (BSM) Walker to start a busy training year. One leftover from Operation HERRICK 13 was the awarding of a Joint Commander’s Commendation for Capt Newnham for his significant effort in FOB Budwan in Naj-e-Saraj—many congratulations! Since July 2011 the Battery has nearly doubled in size; from 24 including the TACPs, we are now 42 strong! We have increased in FST liability from 3 to 7 by August 2012 and will be at a total liability of 64 when the third TACP arrives in January 2013. On 1 August 2011, the new Battery Commander, Maj Mike Rigby, arrived from MOD Abbey Wood and immediately had the honour of promoting LBdr Brown to Bdr after he came top of the JNCO Leadership Course.

On Friday 11th November we celebrated our 200th anniversary of foundation. We were honoured to be joined by 5 former Eagles who flew to Hohne to ensure that we celebrated this very special occasion in true Eagles’ style. After a hearty battery all- ranks breakfast attended by the Commanding Officer and the Regimental Sergeant Major, 3 teams (based around the BC, BK and BSM) participated in a football competition to burn off any excess energy. The BC commented that the team may have been loaded as it was the BSM’s (the Gunner football coach) team which won! After a relaxed afternoon in the battery bar where the former Eagles updated our

history, we retired to the JNCOs’ Mess for an all-ranks function. During the evening we participated in numerous party games (mainly involving eggs, newspapers and wheeled chairs) and had an excellent time. After a recovery afternoon Eagles dined in the Warrant Officers and Sergeants’ Mess with a themed

meal (subsequently copied by the other batteries in the regiment—Eagles setting trends again!) where we were joined by our partners and the battery silver and the Battle of Hyderabad painting from the Officers’ Mess; the evening was a great success.

After a well earned Easter leave and following the arrival of a new BSM, WO2 (BSM) Moore from J (Sidi Rezegh) Battery RHA, Eagles deployed to Grafenwöhr in Bavaria to conduct CT L2 training. Once again working from armoured vehicles, Eagles embraced the exercise and completed it in style, firing live coordinated illumination missions; we also facilitated true joint fires integration for the regiment with our FACs (Bdr Leonard and WO2 (BSM) Moore). On return from Grafenwöhr, Eagles were involved heavily in a myriad of events. Inter-battery sports were all great events; we came a respectable fourth, including winning the tug of war competition, much to our surprise! So what does the future hold? We are awaiting the physical arrival of 3 new FST Commanders as well as soldiers from 40 Regt RA to swell our numbers. Eagles will participate in 2 overseas training events this before Christmas—Ex PRAIRIE THUDER 3 in BATUS, Canada with BC’s Tac, JFC and Capt Hall’s FST supporting the 9th/ 12th Royal Lancers followed swiftly by Ex ASKARI THUNDER 4/12 in Kenya with BC’s Tac, JFC and Capt Hall’s FST supporting the 2 Royal Anglian Battlegroup; a very busy period. The TACPs are in demand and have supported all brigade training events this year. It is fair to say that Eagles have had a busy year but

the next 2 will be even busier! Attached to this report is a ‘blast from

the past’ that I am sure will interest all ex-Eagles.

After a well earned Easter leave and following the arrival of a new BSM, WO2 (BSM) Moore from J (Sidi Rezegh) Battery RHA, Eagles deployed to Grafenwöhr in Bavaria to conduct CT L2 training. Once again working from armoured vehicles, Eagles embraced the exercise and completed it in style, firing live coordinated illumination missions; we also facilitated true joint fires integration for the regiment with our FACs (Bdr Leonard and WO2 (BSM) Moore). 4 soldiers, LBdr Lee and Gnrs Berry, Guest and Jones, missed the exercise to attend the OPA L3 course.

On return from Grafenwöhr, Eagles were involved heavily in a myriad of events. Gnrs Christian, Geer and Westerman attended the regimental PNCO cadre, lovingly (?) watched over by Sgt Lincoln and LBdr Horridge. Inter-battery sports were all great events; we came a respectable fourth, including winning the tug of war competition, much to our surprise! Another OPA L2 course was run by Eagles, headed up once again by Bdr Fitzpatrick. The Battery G4 team facilitated the hand back of our armoured vehicles. FAC training across the Regiment was conducted and administrated by WO2 (BSM) Moore and Bdr Leonard and participated in by the TACPs; this training will provide invaluable for the forthcoming operational tour and further forward to contingent operations.

So what does the future hold? We are awaiting the physical arrival of 3 new FST Commanders as well as soldiers from 40 Regt RA to swell our numbers. Eagles will participate in 2 overseas training events this before Christmas—Ex PRAIRIE THUDER 3 in BATUS, Canada with BC’s Tac, JFC and Capt Hall’s FST supporting the 9th/ 12th Royal Lancers followed swiftly by Ex ASKARI THUNDER 4/12 in Kenya with BC’s Tac, JFC and Capt Hall’s FST supporting the 2 Royal Anglian Battlegroup; a very busy period. The TACPs are in demand and have supported all brigade training events this year. It is fair to say that Eagles have had a busy year but the next 2 will be even busier!

n Battery (the Eagle troop) RHA

RHAA Newsletter 19

o (HQ) Battery (the Rocket troop) RHA2012 has been another extraordinarily busy year for O/HQ Battery (The Rocket Troop). Adaptive Foundation Training saw the Regiment on exercise in the UK, Kenya and Canada, each exercise had the support of the Battery. The Battery also formed a Tac Gp to support 2 LANCS BG through CAST, CATT and BATUS. During certain periods of time the Battery was deployed on up to five exercises simultaneously in three different countries. The HICON bill was as punishing as ever, Bogue’s Troops signallers were really stretched throughout, a task made even more onerous as all the CAST/CATTs were run in Germany over an eight week period.

Ex FIRST DAGGER was the regimental exercise conducted in Otterburn to test CP crews using FC BISA as well conducting field firing in support of the Tac Groups prior to Ex STEEL SABRE. The exercise was a Tac Group round robin approach to Adaptive Foundation Training and firing. As always the battery was at the forefront of the OSG giving all the other Regiments a helping hand with FC BISA, with credit going to the WOCIS/SMS for ensuring the exercise had communications.

A large amount of the BC and BSM’s time was spent supporting 2 LANCS as the O/HQ Battery (The Rocket Troop) Tac Group. This entity was created to be a fifth Regimental Tac Group and called upon our collective skills, supported by FSTs from other Batteries. The BSM ran the Joint Fires Cell, Sgt Wileman was the BC’s assistant, whilst Gnr Wall and Gnr Seeward acted as signallers. This was

excellent opportunity and experience for all involved and the collective experience provided was much appreciated by the BG. BATUS saw the Battery support the HICON bill with Sgt Stevens and his team working out of EXCON tower, Sgts Ball and Sedman supported both of the gun Batteries as their BQMS, whilst the Tac Gp again deployed as support to 2 LANCS in the COEFOR (enemy) role. The BSM stayed rear to run Battery rear operations.

On the sporting from the Battery has again been active particularly on the rope and in the boxing ring. SSgt Liddle ran the Regimental boxing team, his punishing regime ensured that the Regiment won the RA Boxing competition—a fantastic achievement. Gnrs Kearns and Bhatt were in the squad that triumphed. The QM(T) led tug-of-war again had a storming season, again being crowned best

Gunner Team as well achieving significant success at the Army competition. The Regimental team again pulled at the Braemar Games. The team, both male and female, was heavily populated by Rocket Troop soldiers, many of whom went onto gain their Gunner, Army and some cases Combined Services colours.

Over the course of the year, the Battery has been successful on the promotion front. SSgt Bainbridge, was rightly selected for promotion to WO2 where he now just does the SMS role. Sgts Baker, Dennis, Liddle, Shackleton and Wileman were all selected for promotion to SSgt, whilst Bdr Hulcoop and Cpl Noble were promoted to Sgt. Finally, a few farewells to long serving members of the Battery. After 22 years service WO2s Smith and Horridge, SSgt Warren and Sgt Ward have all left the Regiment.

20 RHAA Newsletter

Last PostDuring 2012 the Association has received the sad news of the deaths of the following members:

Name Date Age Location Regt / BtyA R Haines BEM 30 Dec 10 83 Devizes 1 RHAWO2 C M (Mark) Ray 28 Apr 11 43 D, M, 3 RHAMr B H Grant 8 Oct 11 93 Bexleyheath 104 Regt (Essex Yeomanry) RHAMaj Gen J E Cordingley OBE 14 Oct 11 95 Marlborough Ch Tp RHALt Col B H J Holloway 20 Dec 11 88 Tadworth 5 RHA, 4 RHA,3 RHAMr W Stockley 24 Nov 11 86 Kirby D Bty RHAMaj E C Ashton DSO 6 Jan 12 95 Pewsey Ch Tp RHA Mr J Whiteway 8 Apr 12 91 Neath 106 /149 RegtMr C J Friend NK NK Apperley 4 RHAMr Peter S Wareham 8 Aug 08 82 Llandudno 3 RHAMr L Lambertstock BEM 1 Nov 10 84 Oxford D Bty 3 RHAMaj C J Stenning MBE 28 Jan 12 91 Hove King's Troop RHA & 1 RHAMr Brian Regan 1 Feb 2012 78 Broadstairs G Bty RHACol A K Fowler 4 Mar 12 77 St Mawes 3 RHA & 1 RHABrig A (Tony) Hunter-Choat OBE 12 Apr 12 76 Hereford 3 RHAMr David (Dave) Jenkins 1 May 12 61 Oswestry 3 RHA Mr David Parrington 20 May 12 93 Lytham St Annes BO/B 1 RHAMr Norman Gasson 15 Aug 12 85 Blackwater G Bty 5 RHA, HQ 3 RHAMr J J Bufton 13 Aug 12 89 Sale 4 RHAMr G H Francis 6 Sep 12 96 Exeter M, O & B/O Bty's. 1 & 3 Bdes RHA Lt Col T H Pares 18 Sep 12 83 Fakenham K Bty RHAMr C W Perry 20 Sep 12 92 Solihull E Bty 1 RHA Maj D F M Archibald 11 Sep 12 85 Sturminster Newton G Bty, 2 & 7 RHACapt Eddie Newton 25 Dec 12 69 Tillicoultry Kings Troop RHALt Col A J C (Tony) Taylor MBE 4 Jan 13 89 Hammersmith 1 RHALt Col P H V de C O'Grady 6 Jan 13 96 Co Limerick F Bty & Kings Tp RHAMr G D Georgiou 25 Jan 13 79 Colchester A, 1 RHA, D, 3RHA

We Will Remember them

OBITUARY—MR GH FRANCIS

Gnr. G H C Francis enlisted 1932 at Warley served in M Battery 3 Brigade R H A for six years re-called to the colours at the outbreak of WW2 one of the hero's of the rear-guard at St Valery. He survived the long march into captivity and spent the next Five years as a PoW.  He was an inmate of Stalag XXB until he and two other

prisoners escaped and met up with the Russian forces and finally the Americans. He was repatriated  and finally discharged in 1946.

Geoffrey Francis my Uncle passed away on the 6th September this year and will hopefully be reunited with his beloved horses, Mackerel-Mckay and Miss Marina. Peter Francis

RHAA Newsletter 21

PresidentGeneral Sir Timothy Granville-Chapman GBE KCBMaster Gunner St James’s ParkArtillery House, Artillery CentreRoyal Artillery Barracks,Larkhill, SalisburyWiltshire SP4 8QT

Master Gunners RepresentativeBrigadier M S Rutter-JeromeField HouseNewton TonySalisbury,Wiltshire SP4 0HF

CommitteeMajor (Retd) W G Clarke —Chairman & Editor Newsletter‘The Ramblers’, 199 Bulford RoadDurringtonAmesburyWiltshire SP4 8HR

Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) D J Bender —Welfare Secretary23 Heol Will GeorgeWaunarlwyddSwansea SA5 4RSTel: 01792 536257

Major (Retd) R J Whiteway MBE —Membership / Dinner SecretaryThe Hideaway, 18 Immenstadt DriveWellingtonSomerset TA21 9PTEmail: rhassn@hotmail.co.ukTel: 01823 665650

Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) N A C Conn Royal Artillery —Honorary Treasurer15 Stourcroft DriveChristchurchDorset BH23 2PXEmail: neville.conn@btinternet.comTel: 01202 479205

Mr Tony Darby —Goods Secretary78 Primrose FieldHarlowEssex CM18 6QTTel: 01279 413844

The Association annual subscription is £3 although as a result of members’ generosity the average amount received is £5. Members pay what they can afford thus ensuring no bar to membership for those of limited means. Members who wish to amend their bank standing order should contact their bank or request a new BSO form from the Membership Secretary.

Members are requested to inform the Membership Secretary if their address changes to ensure that they continue to receive the newsletter.

Membership application / update forms and further details of reunion dinners can be obtained from the Membership Secretary: Email: rhaassn@hotmail.co.uk

Royal Horse Artillery Association Staff ListStandard BearerMr Skip Hamsford3 West StreetGooleEast Riding of Yorkshire DN14 6BE

Regimental Representatives on the Central CommitteeWO1 (RSM) D M PearceThe King’s Troop RHAGeorge VI LinesWoolwichLondon SE18 4BQ

WO1 (RSM) Tidman1st Regiment Royal Horse ArtilleryAssaye BarracksTidworthHampshire SP9 7AB

WO1 (RSM) Hawke3rd Regiment Royal Horse ArtilleryBritish Forces Post Office 30

WO1(RSM) R Bramall7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse ArtilleryMerville BarracksColchesterEssex CO2 7UJ

Subscriptions / Change of Address

WAntEDoLD PHotoGRAPHS FoR

‘MEMoRY LAnE’Members are asked to send any old photographs from the 1950s, '60s, '70s &'80s to the Editor for future copies of the Newsletter. All those loaned will be returned to their owners by recorded delivery once copied.

22 RHAA Newsletter

RHA Batteries in Army 2020As I am sure you will appreciate, Army 2020 has significantly altered the shape of the Army and, as always, the Royal Regiment has adapted to ensure it is able to support the future Army effectively; this has required some change. Before any decisions were made and promulgated, the Royal Artillery Historical Trust (RAHT) considered options for future Regiments’ composition and battery titles; they developed the following principles and recommended them to the Master Gunner’s Committee in Autumn 2012:RHA regiments should retain only

lettered batteries as no peacetime precedent for numbered batteries serving in RHA regiments could be identified. When deciding which batteries should

be retained and which should be placed into suspended animation (SA), both historical precedence and historical significance should be considered.

The results of the RAHT recommendations and deliberation at the Master Gunner’s Committee resulted in the following RHA structure: 1 RHA—the Regiment will restructure

to comprise 3 x AS90 batteries, 1 x MLRS battery and 1 x Tac Group battery and will support a new Reaction Force Brigade. There was a need to find a 5th lettered battery for the MLRS Bty and whilst having no formal linkage with 1 RHA, the Master Gunner’s Committee felt that H Battery (from 7 Para RHA) should be retained due to its historical significance, even though it is relatively junior in order of precedence. The alternative was resurrecting another lettered battery or using V Battery, the other one from 7 Para RHA to be placed into SA. 3 RHA—the Regiment will restructure

to comprise 2 x Lt Gun batteries and 2 x Tac Group batteries and, along with

4 Regt RA, will provide support to the seven Adaptable Force Brigades. 7 Para RHA—7 Para RHA will restructure

in line with 16 Air Assault Brigade’s reduction to two parachute battalions. This necessitated the reduction from 4 to 2 batteries. As outlined above, H Battery moves to 1 RHA and the Master Gunner’s Committee felt that V Battery had too little ‘heritage’ compared to the other batteries in the Regiment despite being relatively senior in order of precedence. This left F, G and I Batteries and order of precedence led to the conclusion that F and G Batteries should be as equipment batteries and I Battery should be the HQ battery.

I hope this reassures you that full consideration was given to heritage and history despite the need to make some significant change to the Royal Regiment and Royal Horse Artillery batterys. Implementation is underway and it is important that we now support the change.

RHA ASSOCIATION 2014 REUNION DINNERThe RHA Association 93rd Reunion Dinner will take place at the Civic Centre, Trowbridge on Saturday, 29th March 2014.

Attendance is open to all past and present members of any RHA Unit.Ladies are encouraged to attend and are most welcome.

`Those who wish to attend should register their interest with the dinner secretary by 1st December 2013 to ensure further details are sent to them as they become available.

R J Whiteway MBE, The Hideaway, 18 Immenstadt Drive, Wellington, Somerset, TA21 9PT.Tel: 01823 665650 E-mail: rhaassn@hotmail.co.uk

RHA ASSoCIAtIonANNUAL GENERAL MEETING & REUNION 2013

The Association Annual General Meeting & Reunion for 2013 will be held at theImperial War Museum, Lambeth Road, London, SE1 6HZ on 21st September 2013 at 1200hrs.

The programme will be:1000hrs Access to view museum exhibits.1200hrs AGM

1315hrs Light Lunch & presentation of Whips Trophy1415hrs–1700hrs Access to view museum exhibits.

The cost will be £15 per ticket and ladies/partners will be most welcome.Members who wish to attend are requested to register their interest with the membership secretary as soon as

possible to enable numbers to be assessed. This will ensure that further details are sent to members who wish to attend when they become available.

R J Whiteway MBE, The Hideaway, 18 Immenstadt Drive, Wellington, Somerset, TA21 9PT.Tel: 01823 665650 E-mail: rhaassn@hotmail.co.uk

RHAA Newsletter 23

Rufus Writes (formerly Chatham of A- Sub-section)

Here I am all togge

d up for a hack on

the Plain.

24 RHAA Newsletter

‘Yesteryear’ featuring o Battery (the Rocket troop) RHA 1918–1923

In April 1918 O Battery as part of V Brigade RHA were preparing to repel the great German Spring Offensive on the Western Front. The pictures below portray the battery leaguered up in preparation. Other photographs show them taking part in the Wiesbaden Horse Show where they were stationed as part of the Allied Army of Occupation in 1919. On return to the United Kingdom later that year they formed part of a Royal Review of V Brigade at Aldershot. Finally in 1922/23 they were called upon to perform the Musical Drive at the Royal Tournament in place of N Battery RHA, who had been sent to Ireland as part of the Royal Artillery Mounted Rifle Regiment.

Wiesbaden Horse Show 1919

o Battery Signallers nov 11 1918

D Sub, Wiesbaden Horse Show 1919

SnCos o Battery nov 11 1918

C Sub at Leaguer Area , April 1918

RHAA Newsletter 25

Memory Lane

26 RHAA Newsletter

Memory Lane

A CENTURY oF MEMoRIES FoR JIMMY SInCLAIR

The oldest member of the RHA Association and one of the oldest surviving ‘Desert Rats’, Jimmy Sinclair celebrated his 100th birthday last August. Earlier in the year he had a surprise early birthday tea with the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall when they visited Holyrood Palace, and he was presented with a beautiful set of Caithness glass whisky glasses and a bottle of whisky from them. To assist him with his celebrations last August, Eddie Macmurray, who lives fairly locally, took along a good bottle of whisky and a copy of the book Royal Salute to present to Jimmy from the Association, both of which were very much appreciated!

3rd RHA, Gil Gil Kenya 1963

RHAA Newsletter 27

Press Day, Wormwood Scrubs 1965

St. John’s Wood Bks 1966

RHAA Reunion, St. John's Wood 1985

HM Queen's visit, St. John's Wood 1962

JNCOs F (Sphinx) Battery RHA, Risalpur 1938

28 RHAA Newsletter

Memory Lane