Friday 26 February 2010

Army Radio News - 26 Feb 10

The Commander Of B Company 1 Scots Is Urging Us To Recognise The Progress Being Made In Afghanistan

Major Graham Waremouth is currently on R and R and has been speaking with Garrison FM about the work being done out there. He's emphasising that whilst they have dealt with casualties, they are making a difference.


Better Access Is Being Given To Afghan Locals

The Royal Engineers have built a new bridge across a strategic stretch of canal near to the town of Shaheed. The waterway and crossing was seized by British and Afghan forces as part of operation MOSHTARAK.


Armoured Vehicles In Afghanistan Are To Be Kept On Track After The MOD Extended The Contract Of County Durham Firm

The Ministry of Defence has awarded a 30 million pound contract to the company, which produces metal tracks for the vehicles to run on.


Children Who Have Dads Deployed In Afghanistan Are Showing They Care

They're making special teddy bears, which are to be stuffed with a specialised recording of themselves. They'll then be shipped over to their fathers.


March Is Bangers For Cash Month

A Turner and Sons Butchers have created two sausages, the "pickled pig" and "hair of the hog". They're to be sold to raise cash for help for heroes.

Thursday 25 February 2010

Army Radio News - 25 Feb 10

The Stabilisation Phase Of Operation MOSHTARAK's Now Well Underway

Afghan forces are increasingly taking the lead when dealing with local security issues in central Helmand.


Work To Regain Ground In Afghanistan's Going To Plan

Garrison FM's been speaking with Flight Lieutenant Richard May, who's currently out there. He's a Forward Air Controller from 3 UK Division, attached to 11 Light Brigade on Operation Herrick. They've been working to redefine the area the enemy holds to allow a safer environment to work in.


The Flagship Event Of The ABF The Soldier's Charity's Been Launched

The Annual Lord Mayor's Big Curry will be held at the end of April in London. In the meantime, Big Curry events will be organised across the UK to raise money for the charity.

One Of The Men Responsible For Doubling Recruitment at Catterick's To Retire

Sergeant Mal Jones has been with the Army Career's Office for three years and is moving to pastures new in the next few months.

Wednesday 24 February 2010

Army Radio News - 24 Feb 10

Two-Thousand Local Afghans Are Cleaning Up Bazaars, Repairing Canals And Taking Part In Community Refurbishment Projects Around The Nad 'Ali Area

They've registered for the "cash for work" programme following the clearance phase of operation MOSHTARAK.

Changes Are Being Made To How Different Elements Of Task Force Helmand Will Be Known

The names have been re-designed to reflect the partnerships being made with Afghan Security Forces.

Plans Are Underway To Create A Committee For Wives And Girlfriends Ahead Of 2 Para's Deployment To Afghanistan

It would involve organising excursions, events and activities for those left behind.

There's Good News For The Service's Cotswold Centre In Wiltshire

It's extended its facilities and has introduced a new, specially adapted minibus to help injured soldiers and their families.

Preparations Are Underway For May's Royal Military Tattoo At Windsor Castle

It's in its third year and the event's growing in size.

Tuesday 23 February 2010

Army Radio News - 23 Feb 10

Afghanistan Is A Signpost For Future UK Military Strategy

That's according to former Head of the British Army General Sir Richard Dannatt, who's been adding his views to the debate ahead of the forthcoming Strategic Defence Review.

The Royal British Legion's Celebrating Those Who Go That Extra Mile For Service Personnel With The Launch Of New Awards

Friends of the Forces aims to find soldiers biggest fans amongst the service community and the general public.

The Last Remaining British Soldier In Kosovo Explains His Role To Garrison FM

Col Andrew Cuthbert is the Policy and Plans Advisor for NATO, involved in helping Kosovo set up their equivalent of the MOD.

A Colchester Soldier's Getting On His Bike For Bereaved Service Families

SSgt Brian Chenier works at the MCTC, but is also a Family Activity Breaks volunteer. He'll be cycling 650 miles from Cornwall to Yorkshire with the aim of raising at least two thousand pounds for the FAB scheme.

Monday 22 February 2010

Army Radio News - 22 Feb 10

Coalition Forces Are Being Welcomed Into The Central Helmand Town Of Marjah In Afghanistan

That's according to MOD spokesman Major General Gordon Messenger who says local Afghan's complain of oppression from both the Taliban and narcotics community in the area.

Tributes Have Been Paid To Two Soldiers Killed In Afghanistan

Lieutenant Douglas Dalzell from 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards died on his 27th Birthday, as a result of an explosion in the Babaji area of Helmand.

Lance Sergeant David Walker died from enemy fire whilst on a patrol in the Nad-e-Ali district.

Three Writers Normally More At Home In The State Prison System Have Paid Colchester's Military Corrective Training Centre A Visit

Alistair Fruish, John Rowe, and Gerry Ryan belong to Writers in Prison, and say the state sector could learn much from the MCTC.

Gunners From 32 Regiment Royal Artillery Have Marched Through The Surrey Town Of Esher To Mark The End Of Their Recent Tour Of Afghanistan

The soldiers from 22 Gibraltar Battery followed those from King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, and the Royal Artillery Band.

Army Sports Lottery

The top prize of ten thousand pounds goes to Staff Sergeant M J Power from 32 Regiment Royal Artillery.

Second prize of five thousand pounds goes to Lance Corporal L K Murphy from 173 Provo Coy, 3 RMP based at BFPO 801.

Third prize of two thousand five hundred pounds goes to Private S M Finch from 1 GS Regiment RLC at BFPO 47.


Friday 19 February 2010

Army Radio News - 19 Feb 10

The MOD's Confirmed Two Soldiers Have Been Killed In Afghanistan

The first from 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards died as a result of an explosion in the Babaji area of Helmand. The second from 1st Battalion The Scots Guards died as a result of small arms fire in the Nad-E-Ali district. Next of kin have been informed.

The Afghan Army's Been At The Heart Of 1 Scots Pre-Deployment Training For Afghanistan

They visited the regiment to see them train in preparation for their forthcoming tour, and provide a better cultural awareness of Afghanistan.

Details Of New Life Saving Equipment For Medics On The Frontline Have Been Revealed

Medical Emergency Response Teams in Afghanistan can now use the state of the art EnFlowTM 100 Rapid Blood and Fluid Warmer.

Soldier's From 1 Lancs Are Being Offered Free Family Photo Portraits Ahead Of Their Deployment To Afghanistan

It's all courtesy of their unit welfare office who've come up with the idea.

Thursday 18 February 2010

Army Radio News - 18 Feb 10

11 Light Brigade Say They're Continuing To Provide Security In Areas Of Helmand Unaffected By Operation Moshtarak

Talking to Garrison FM from Afghanistan Major Willie Baron says the work of ISAF forces carry on.

Royal Engineers Have Fired Their Latest Weapon In The Battle Against The Taliban For The First Time

The Python is a trailer mounted rocket propelled mine clearing system that gets pulled behind the Trojan armoured tank. It's essentially an exploding hose which punches safe passage through suspected IED belts.

Gunners From The Australian Army Have Left Sunnier Shores To Serve Alongside Soldier's At Colchester Garrison

15 Aussie's from Brisbane are training with elite gunners from 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery at Merville Barracks, before deploying to Afghanistan in September.

A New Camouflage Strip's Been Launched By A Scottish Rugby Club To Show Support For The Armed Forces

Melrose RFC will wear the new outfit incorporating the traditional club colours of yellow and black, during the forthcoming sevens season.

Soldier Come Dancing Returns

After the success of last years competition where people cast their vote for the sassiest soldiers dancing videos online, wife of 4 Mechanized Brigade's Commander, Mia Felton has been telling Garrison FM what you can expect this time round.

Wednesday 17 February 2010

Army Radio News - 17 Feb 10

The MOD Has Named The Soldier From 36 Engineer Regiment Killed In Afghanistan

Sapper Guy Mellors died in an explosion whilst operating in Helmand's Battle Group (North) with the counter IED taskforce.

The MOD Confirm They're Investigating A Possible Incident Of Friendly Fire Believed To Have Caused The Death Of Kingsman Sean Dawson

The soldier from 2nd Battalion The Duke Of Lancaster's Regiment died near Musa Qaleh as a result of small arms fire on Sunday. The family of Kingsman Dawson are aware of the investigation.

The UK's Commander Of Taskforce Helmand Brigadier James Cowan Has Congratulated ANA Soldiers Who Uncovered A Taliban Drugs And Arms Cache In The Nad-E-Ali District

They made the find after the Coldstream Guards had cleared the compound as part of Operation Moshtarak.

The Army's Confirmed That 1 Gurkha Reinforment Company Will Disband By The End Of Next Month

Soldiers within the company will be absorbed into the wider GRC structure.

The Army Cadet Force Appeals For Volunteers As It Celebrates It's 150 Anniversary

The organization provides twelve to eighteen year olds with a chance to gain certain military skills leading to qualifications including The Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme.

Tuesday 16 February 2010

Army Radio News - 16 Feb 10

The MOD's Confirmed A Soldier From 36 Engineer Regiment Has Been Killed In Afghanistan -Next Of Kin Have Been Informed

The soldier who served as part of the counter IED taskforce died from wounds suffered in an explosion near a patrol base north-east of Sanguin.

Tributes Have Been Paid To Two British Soldiers Who Died In Afghanistan On Sunday

Rifleman Marshall was killed when an IED exploded whilst he was on a routine patrol serving with the 3 Rifles Battlegroup.

Kingsman Dawson was killed by a gunshot wound during contact with insurgents in a planned battlegroup north-west ambush.

There Are No Set Piece Victories, That's Not The Object Of The Exercise

That's According to the Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshall Sir Jock Stirrup who's been talking about the success of Operation Moshtarak.

This Years Aldershot Army Show Won't Go Ahead

The cost of putting on the show together with current operational commitments faced by the Army and Aldershot Garrison itself has led to the decision to cancel.

Soldiers From 1 Scots Have Been Singing The Praises Of The Husky Vehicle

It's recently been put to the test on 4 Brigade's mission rehearsal exercise on Salisbury Plain and will be used for the first time in theatre when they deploy in April.

Monday 15 February 2010

Army Radio News - 15 Feb 10

Two British Soldiers Have Been Killed In Afghanistan - Next Of Kin Have Been Informed

A soldier from 6 Rifles who served as part of the 3 Rifles Battlegroup died as a result of an explosion near FOB Inkerman. The MOD say this soldier's death was not connected with Operation Moshtarak.

A soldier from 2nd Battalion, The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment was killed as a result of small arms fire in the Musa Qaleh district of Helmand, on Sunday evening.

Tributes Are Paid To Lance Corporal Darren Hicks From 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards And Lance Sergeant Dave Greenhalgh From 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards

Lance Corporal Hicks died as a result of an explosion that happened in the Babaji area of central Helmand.

Lance Sergeant Dave Greenhalgh died when his Jackal vehicle was struck by an IED on a patrol near Laskkar Gah.

Troops From 1 Battalion The Royal Welsh Achieve Their Main Objective Within 48 Hours Of The Launch Of Operation Moshtarak

They were part of a combined force of over 1,200 who conducted a helicopter assault from Camp Bastion. Now a Fire Support Company has successfully established a Patrol Base, east of Garbay Noray.

The MOD Has Awarded A Number Of Research Contracts

The Centre for Defence Enterprise is funding projects that will produce technology and equipment including the Bubblephone that could benefit the military.

Army Sports Lottery Winners

OCdt TEC Moger at RMAS Camberley wins the top prize of ten thousand pounds in this weeks Army Sports Lottery. The second prize of five thousand pounds goes to Trooper MK Large of 9/12 Lancers. Staff Sergeant R P Preece from 1 G S Regt RLC is in third place winning a total of two thousand five hundred pounds.

Friday 12 February 2010

Army Radio News - 12 Feb 10

The MOD's Confirmed A Soldier From 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards Has Been Killed In Afghanistan

He died in an explosion in the Babaji area of Helmand Province whilst on foot patrol. Next of kin been informed.

The Head Of NATO Led Forces In Southern Afghanistan Says Operation Moshtarak Is All About Increased Governance

Britain's Major-General Nick Carter is the Commander of Regional Command South, and he says governance will be at the forefront of everything that happens.

The Head Of The British Army's Sending Out His Briefing Team To Find Out What's Worrying The Wives, Partners And Families of Soldiers

They'll be visiting Colchester Garrison next month, and any concerns raised will be taken straight to General Sir David Richards.

Soldiers Who Are Sick Or Injured Are To Get More Support In Returning To Duty Or Civvie Street

The Army Recovery Capability, or ARC as it's known will involve a co-ordinated network of 12 Personnel Recovery Units the first of which will be built in Colchester.

A Family Activity Breaks scheme has recently been launched by the MOD

It aims to send 100 bereaved Armed Forces Families on activity holidays in the UK this summer, and forces families are being urged to go online and apply for a place at mod.uk/fab.

Thursday 11 February 2010

Army Radio News - 11 Feb 10

4th Mechanized Brigade Are Preparing For The Holding Phase Of Operation Moshtarak

The Catterick based brigade have been conducting mission specific training on Salisbury Plain for their tour of Afghanistan starting in April.

Work Continues In Helmand To Ensure The Future Of The Afghan National Army

Signal Instructor Staff Sergeant Thomas Powell is part of an Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team. He says he's already seen progress.

It's Hoped By October This Year The ANA Will Be 134 thousand Strong

Once soldiers in the Afghan National Army finish their training in Kabul, they'll deploy to various provinces around the country.

The MOD Announces Plans To Support Sick Or Injured Soldiers

The Army Recovery Capability scheme will help return them to duties or make a successful transition into civilian life.

A Group That Speaks To Soldiers About The Dangers Of Drink And Drugs Has Been Telling Garrison FM Some Of The Ways They Make Soldiers Sit Up And Think

Ex Grange Hill actress Vanessa Carter's from Galahad and speaks from experience.

A Biker Rally Honoring Soldiers Killed In Afghanistan Has Had To Close Registrations Early

Thousands of Bikers across the country have signed up to ride through the Wiltshire town of Wootton Bassett on Mother's Day to raise cash for the charity Afghan Heroes.

Wednesday 10 February 2010

Army Radio News - 10 Feb 10

Tributes Have Been Paid To The Latest British Soldiers To Die In Afghanistan

Corporal Johnathan Moore and Private Sean MacDonald from The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, were serving as part of the 3 Rifles Battlegroup when they were killed by an IED explosion on Sunday.

Just a day later, W02 David Markland from 36 Engineer Regiment Royal Engineers was also killed as a result of an Improvised Explosive Device.

The Afghan National Army's Ready For Operation Moshtarak According To The UK's Leadership Training Team At The ANA's Main Training Centre In Kabul

Commanding Officer Lt Col Nick Ilic says the offensive will be the first chance to see Afghan troops fighting alongside coalition forces, on a scale not seen before.

Soldiers Who Have Been Left Injured Or Ill Whilst On Duty Are To Get More Help

Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth has announced the youngest and most severely injured can expect to have their annual compensation payments increased by a third.

Plans To Increase The Number Of Beds At The Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre At Headley Court, Have Been Revealed

Under Secretary of State for Defence Kevan Jones made the announcement.

Tuesday 9 February 2010

Army Radio News - 09 Feb 10

The MOD's Confirmed The Death Of Another British Soldier

He was from 36 Engineer Regiment, serving as part of the Counter-IED Task Force in Afghanistan. The Soldier was leading a team conducting route clearance operations in Nad-e-Ali on Monday, when he was killed by an explosion. His Family has been told.


People Should Prepare For British Casualties As A Result Of The Upcoming Major Offensive In Helmand Province

That's according to Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth who says at the moment, soldiers of the six nations involved are making battle preparations at Camp Bastion. He emphasised that the "major clearing phase" of the operation’s yet to begin, even though British Troops have taken part in the initial "shaping phase".

A New Civilian Stabilisation Group's Been Launched In The UK

The service will help countries affected by conflict or disaster get back on their feet


The Chief Of The General Staff Is Again Emphasising The Importance Of Britain's Relationship With Brunei

It's as General Sir David Richard's visits Asia in his role of as Colonel Commandant of The Brigade of Gurkhas.


A Labrador's Being Honoured For His Bravery In Afghanistan

8 year old Treo's an Arms and Explosive Search Dog. The K9's to receive the highest accolade on offer to an animal -The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals Dickin Medal.

Monday 8 February 2010

Army Radio News - 08 Feb 10

It's Been Confirmed ThatTwo British Soldiers Have Been Killed In Afghanistan

The Ministry of Defence has revealed the pair, who were from The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland died on Sunday.


While Still Serious, The Security Situation In Afghanistan Is No Longer Deteriorating

That's according to the Head of NATO forces in Afghanistan, who's been meeting with NATO defence ministers in Turkey. General Stanley McChrystal's comments come as coalition and Afghan forces prepare for one of their largest combined operations in Helmand.


Up To One-Hundred-And-Fifty-Thousand Pounds Worth Of Holidays Are to Be Given To Those who've Fought For Our Country

The free breaks are being offered to families of injured service personnel and those who've lost loved ones on active duty.


Another Council's Joined forces With The MoD To Launch The Armed Forces Community Welfare Pathway Initiative In Wigan

Wigan Local Authority's the third to pilot the scheme, which aims to enable serving personnel, their families and veterans to get the help and support they need from the right people.


The Army Families Federation Says It's Vital Not To Lose Your Chance To Vote

Soldiers and dependants not on the electoral roll are being urged to register ahead of this year's general election.


The Results For This Week's Army Sports Lottery Are In

Winning the first prize of ten-thousand pounds is Signaller Pearce from 21 Signal Regiment. Meanwhile, Captain Burgess from the Queen's Dragoon Guards came second, winning 5 thousand. Finally, bagging the third prize of two-and-a-half grand is Lance Sergeant Hudson from 1 Grenadier Guards.

Friday 5 February 2010

Army Radio News - 05 Feb 10

British Troops In Afghanistan Have Been Paving The Way For A Major Offensive Against The Taliban

The Royal Welsh, Grenadier and Scots Guards have taken part in an air and ground attack in Helmand south of Nad 'Ali'.

It's 125 Years Since The Regular Forces Employment Association Was Launched

The service finds jobs for people who've left the Military. David McEntee-Taylor's who's from the organisation says veterans often don't realise how vital the skills they've learnt are.

Tickets Are Now On Sale For This Year's Royal Military Tattoo At Windsor Castle

It's being held in the private grounds in May with kind permission of Her Majesty the Queen.

The Benefits Of Apprenticeship's In The Army Are Being Promoted

Over twelve thousand soldiers are on a program at any one time making it the largest scheme in the UK.

A Former Grenadier Guards Captain Explains Why He Won't Receive A Penny From His New Book 'Afghanistan: A Tour Of Duty'

All profits of Captain Alexander Allan's book containing photo's of his 2007 tour will be going to BLESMA.

Thursday 4 February 2010

Army Radio News - 04 Feb 10

The Latest Upsurge Of British And Afghan Troops In Helmand Is Putting The Taliban Under Increasing Pressure

That's according to a spokesman for 11 Light Brigade the lead formation for Task Force Helmand.

A Former Detainee Of The Military Corrective Training Centre In Colchester's Giving Hope To Others

Sgt Trevor Coult of the 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment has been awarded the Military Cross, and is now working at the tri-service detention facility.

The First Royal Salutes Of The Year Are Being Held This Weekend

The North of England 's to celebrate Her Majesty the Queen's accession to the throne in York on Saturday. In the South the King's Troops Royal Horse Artillery will fire a salute in London's Hyde Park.

A Soldier At ATR Bassingbourn's Going Above And Beyond For Charity

Despite battling a brain tumour Corporal Paul "Nick" Nicholson's ran 17 races and raised over a grand for Brain Tumour UK in the last year.

Wednesday 3 February 2010

Army Radio News - 03 Feb 10

The Ministry Of Defence Has Named The Two British Soldiers Killed In Afghanistan On Monday

Corporal Liam Riley and Lance Corporal Graham Shaw from 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment died following two IED blasts between Babaji and Gereshk in Helmand Province.

The MOD's published a Green Paper Ahead Of A Strategic Defence Review, Which Is Being Held After This Year's General Election

It looks at particular issues that need to be addressed and also sets out principles to move defence forward.

An Ex-Professional Footballer Turned Soldier Has Survived A Roadside Bomb Attack In Afghanistan

Lieutenant Stephen Healey, who played for Swansea City, was commanding a convoy from the turret of the lead vehicle in Helmand when it hit an IED. Thanks to the Mastiff armoured vehicle he was in neither he, or his soldiers were injured.

A New Drop-In Service Is Being Launched This Month At Colchester To Help Those Struggling With Money

Following a survey by the Royal British Legion, an advice surgery's to be held once a week at the Army Welfare Offices.

The Army Cadet Force Celebrates Its 150th Anniversary This Week

The Youth Organisation aims to give youngsters more opportunities and specialist skills

Tuesday 2 February 2010

Army Radio News - 02 Feb 10

The Ministry Of Defence Has Confirmed The Deaths Of Two British Soldiers In Afghanistan

The pair from 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, were killed as a result of two IED explosions near Malgir in Helmand Province on Monday. They were serving as part of the 1 Coldstream Guards Battle Group and were on foot patrol at the time.

More Help's To Be Given To Service Personnel, Their Families And Veterans

The MOD and Hampshire County Council have joined forces to launch the Armed Forces Welfare Pathways Initiative. The scheme's to be rolled out across the UK.

His Royal Highness, The Prince Of Wales Visited Troops On Salisbury Plain On Monday

He met with soldiers from 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment of which he's Colonel In Chief. They're currently taking part in a mission rehearsal exercise ahead of their deployment to Afghanistan, where they'll be working with Task Force Helmand.

After 26 Days And 500 Miles, The Long Journey's Finally Over For Fundraisers

Walkers have trekked from Catterick Garrison to Aldershot Garrison in aid of "Honour our Troops", the charity which aims to boost the morale of soldiers serving abroad by organising a huge concert for them.

Monday 1 February 2010

Army Radio News - 01 Feb 10

250 Recently Discovered World War 1 Soldiers Are Finally Being Laid To Rest

The British and Australian men fell in the 1916 Battle of Fromelles.

The Army Benevolent Fund's Been Given A New Identity

From now on it will be known as ABF - The soldier's Charity.

Troops In Afghanistan Overcame Heavy Fire To Erect A New Bridge In Nad-e Ali

The men from 10 Field Squardon, attached to 28 Engineer Regiment Group, risked their lives to build the structure. They were under attack by the Taliban and had to create a smoke screen with grenade to finish the job.

The families Of Servicemen And Women Soon To Be Deployed To Afghanistan Are Getting More Help To Stay In touch

An event was organised over the weekend at the Hipswell Habitat at Cattrick, where in the last few weeks it's been announced 4 brigade will be the next to go out.

The Results Are In For This Week's Army Sports Lottery

Bagging the 1st prize of £10,000 is WO1 Land from HCSO. Meanwhile, Lance Corporal Moore from 262 Signal Squadron came second winning £5000. Sergeant Sutherland from 36 Engineer Regiment won the third prize of £2,500.