Wednesday 30 June 2010

Army Radio News - 30 Jun 10

UK Troops Won't Be Protected By Human Rights Laws At All Times When They're Serving Abroad

The Supreme Court has found in favour of the government, which challenged two previous rulings. The MoD had argued it could weaken decision-making in the field.

The Man Chosen To Take Charge Of The US Military In Afghanistan Has Warned Of An Escalation Of Violence In The Coming Months

President Obama chose General David Petraeus to replace General Stanley McChrystal who stepped down last week. General Patreaus said troops were engaged in a contest of wills with the Taliban and promised a more co-ordinated approach

Prime Minister David Cameron Has Pledged His Support For Wounded Troops Returning Home From Afghanistan

Speaking during Prime Minister's Questions, he said the work of the bomb disposal teams is 'beyond brave'. He said the injured needed to be supported during their rehabilitation.

The UK Secretary Of State For Defence Is In Washington For A Series Of Key Meetings

The aim is to strengthen the US-UK defence relationship.

Tuesday 29 June 2010

Army Radio News - 29 Jun 10

The New Commander Of 51 Brigade's Been Speaking To Garrison FM About His Plans

Brigadier George Lowder took over from David Allfrey last week.

The Soldier Killed During A Fire Fight In Afghanistan Has Been Named

Corporal Jamie Kirkpatrick of 101 Engineer Regiment (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) Counter IED Taskforce died after the team he was working with came under attack from insurgents.

Time's Running Out If You Want Your Opinions Heard

The Armed Forces Continuous Attitude Survey closes on July 20th. The Army's rate of response is lagging way behind the other services.

One Of The Women Responsible For Maintaining The Computer Systems For Taskforce Helmand HQ In Lashkar Gar Has Been Speaking About Her Job

Cpl Rebecca Peters is from 204 Signal Squadron and is part of what's known as the "technical workshop". She says she has many responsibilities

Monday 28 June 2010

Army Radio News - 28 Jun 10

After 3 Years The Commander Of 51 Brigade Has Handed Over The Reins

Brigadier David Allfrey is now heading to pastures new.

Tributes Have Been Paid To The Four Soldiers Who Lost Their Lives In Afghanistan When The Vehicle They Were Travelling In Rolled Into A Waterway

Private Alex Isaac, Private Douglas Halliday and Colour Sergeant Martyn Horton of 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment, along with Lance Corporal David Ramsden from 1st Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, were part of a police advisory team and travelling in a two vehicle convoywhen they were killed.

Tributes Have Also Been Paid To A Soldier From 4th Regiment Royal Artillery Who Died In Hospital After Being Injured In An Explosion In Afghanistan

Bombardier Stephen Gilbert's been described as a rising star and a fit and robust Scotsman.


Over The Weekend Towns And Cities Across The UK Celebrated Armed Forces Day

But troops serving in Afghanistan weren't left out of the festivities. Personnel from the Army, Royal Air Force and Royal Navy held events at bases throughout Helmand Province.

70 Years Of The Airborne Forces Have Been Celebrated

An anniversary service and dinner were held in London to mark the occasion.

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

Bagging the 1st prize of 10 thousand pounds is Cpt Duff of 38 Engineer Regiment. WO2 Mortimer from 11 Training Battalion REME came second, winning 5 thousand. Trooper Hinchley of HCMR in London won the third prize of 2 and a half grand.

Friday 25 June 2010

Army Radio News - 25 Jun 10

Taliban Captured By UK Forces In Afghanistan Can Still Be Transferred To Sovereign Afghan Authorities

That's the ruling of a high court judgment that says British Troops can lawfully continue the practice.

A Company Of 1 Scots Soldier's Are Adapting Well To Their New Ground Holding Role In Afghanistan

That's the message from their Commanding Officer Lt Col Charlie Herbert.

Troops From 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles Have Helped Restore A Level Of Peace To An Area Of Helmand Province

A month ago villagers in Piand Kalay fled following a vicious insurgent campaign. The Gurkha's along with members of the ANA have seen a change in the last few weeks as local people have become more confident and returned to their homes.

Scotlands Most Senior Army Officer Has Become The Governor Of Edinburgh Castle

Major General David Shaw the GOC of the British Army's 2nd Division took on the role at an installation ceremony on Thursday.

TA Soldiers Proudly Wear Their Uniforms To Work

Reservists marked the third annual Uniform to Work Day by wearing their uniforms alongside their civilian colleagues.

Thursday 24 June 2010

Army Radio News - 24 Jun 10

A New Weapon's Being Sent Out To Theatre To Combat The IED Threat

The MOD's been showcasing the latest military equipment and vehicles at the Defence Vehicle Dynamic Event.

A Soldier From The 1st Battalion Royal Welsh Who Survived Two Bomb Blasts In Afghanistan Has Praised The Mastiff Armoured Vehicle Which Saved His Life

Lieutenant Mark Lewis says the vehicle took the brunt of the blast.

It's Been Revealed The Ministry Of Defence Has Awarded A Contact For 140 Jackal 2A Vehicles

That brings the total owned by UK forces up to 400.

It's Been Announced The MOD's Reducing The Weight Troops On The Frontline Carry

Improvements have been made to current and future infantry combat support kit.

The Secretary Of Defence Has Praised The Work Done By The Former US Commander In Afghanistan

General Stanley McChrystal was forced to step down following critical comments he made about Obama administration officials and diplomats.

Celebrations Are Happening Up And Down The Country In Honour Of Armed Forces Day

In Preston, a Military Open Day's being held as part of the event.

The International Security And Strategy Minister's Been Giving His Views On Armed Forces Day

Gerald Howarth told Garrison FM it's a chance to say a real thank you to troops.

650 Members Of 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards Battle Group Have Marched From Wellington Barracks To The Guards Memorial On Horse Guards Parade

Earlier a service of remembrance was also held for those who've died.

Wednesday 23 June 2010

Army Radio News - 23 Jun 10

A New Weapon To Help Fight The IED Threat's Been Unveiled By The MOD

The Talisman is a suite of vehicles operated by the Royal Engineers.

11 Light Brigade's Chapter In Military History's Finally Over

Thousands of people lined the streets of Winchester to watch a Homecoming Parade for the 12 regiments. Soldiers of 11 Light Brigade were brought together to provide reinforcement for their own in Afghanistan and training for the Afghan National Army, It's the last time they'll share their pride as the Brigade's now been formally disbanded

A Two Year Pay Freeze Has Been Announced For Both Service And Civilian Personnel

It's part of the Government's Emergency Budget. However, the chancellor did reveal those earning 21 thousand pounds or less will see a pay rise of at least 250 pounds in this time.

Final Preparations Are Being Put In Place For The RLC Openday At Deepcut


The event's being held this weekend.

Tuesday 22 June 2010

Army Radio News - 22 Jun 10

Soldiers Are Being Warned Of The Dangers Of Overheating Whilst Training

Even if it's not that warm, troops are still vulnerable given the equipment they have to carry and the exercise they do.

Changes Are Being Made To Areas Of Responsibility In Afghanistan

Soon US forces will be taking over the security in Kajaki from the UK.

Up And Down The Country Flags Have Been Raised

It's to mark a week of activities that will culminate in the second national Armed Force Day.

The Yorkshire Regiment Have Used Their Regimental Freedom Rights And Marched Through The Town Of Barnsley

Thousands lined the streets as they showed off their newly presented colours.

Three British World War Two Veterans Have Received The Highest Decoration In France

President Nicolas Sarkozy presented the trio with the Legion d'Honneur during a state visit to the UK.

Monday 21 June 2010

Army Radio News - 21 Jun 10

It's Been Revealed The Number Of British Service Personnel To Be Killed As A Result Of Operations In Afghanistan Has Reached Three-Hundred

Following the announcement, David Cameron expressed regret over the loss of life, but also said troops won't be there any longer than they're needed.

Tributes Have Been Paid To A Member Of The Royal Dragoon Guards Who Was Killed In Afghanistan

Trooper Ashley Smith died in an explosion in the Nahr-e Saraj District on Friday.

The Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Has A New Headquarters

An official Farewell Parade took place in Germany to mark the move of HQ ARRC to the UK this summer.

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

Bagging the 1st prize of 10 thousand pounds is Capt Evans of 64 Fuel Sp Sqn. Cpl Donaghy from 22 Signal Regiment in Stafford came second, winning 5 thousand. Pte Hodgson of 3 CS Regt RLC in Abingdon won the third prize of 2 and a half grand.

Friday 18 June 2010

Army Radio News - 18 Jun 10

Mentoring Afghan Troops Is Progressing On Every Level

That's The Message from members of 1 Scots who're partnering and mentoring the Afghan National Army in Helmand's Green Zone. Recently 1 Scots have been making sure the ANA are up to speed on battlefield casualty extraction.

Combined Services Entertainment Brought David Beckham To Afghanistan Last Month

Now a series of shows involving comedy, music and dance are being put on at Camp Bastion. Comedian Phil Butler says soldiers are a great crowd to perform to.

British And American Troops Have Been Training Together

12 Mechanized Brigade Headquarters on Salisbury Plain undertake virtual training with the US Army across the pond on Exercise Omnifusion.

Soldier's In Training Need To Be More Aware Of The Dangers Of Over Heating

Captain Cindy Lethbridge from Army Primary Health care in Colchester says heat injuries can be caused by a number of factors.

Garrison FM Congratulate Soldier Magazine On Their Latest Award

For the second year in a row they been named best internal magazine.

Thursday 17 June 2010

Army Radio News - 17 Jun 10

Moral's High - That's The Message Garrison FM's Been Getting From Soldiers In Afghanistan

It's been a difficult few weeks for 4 Brigade, as the number of casualties gradually grows. But WO2 Roger Martins of 1 Lancs says they're all pulling together

Tributes Have Been Paid To The Two Soldiers Killed In Separate Incidents In Afghanistan

The pair were both from 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, part of Combined Force Nad-e Ali. Corporal Taniela Tolevu Rogoiruwai, and Kingsman Ponipate Tagitaginimoce both died in separate shooting incidents in Helmand Province.

Soldiers Of The Yorkshire Regiment Are About To Celebrate A Historic Day

They're receiving four sets of new Regimental Colours from His Royal Highness The Duke of York.

Hundreds Lined The Streets Of Aldershot To Welcome Back Members Of 101 Log Brigade

It was their Homecoming Parade following a 6 month tour of Afghanistan.

Wednesday 16 June 2010

Army Radio News - 16 Jun 10


We've Been Speaking With One Of The Men Who's Now Responsible For Our International Security


MP Gerald Howarth was not only re-elected to represent Aldershot in the last elections, he was also given the title of Minister for International Security Strategy.

An Apache Attack Helicopter Pilot's Highlighting The Opportunities Open To Women In The Army

When Captain Joanna Gordon joined the Women's Royal Army Corps 21 years ago as a chef she had no idea how much her career would change. Captain Gordon's just completed her second four-month tour in Afghanistan flying the potent Apache AH Mk 1 Helicopter

A New British Military Tournament's To Be Held This Year

The event will take place at Earls Court in December and all money raised will got to ABF: The Soldier's Charity.

An Army Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner's Taking A Break From His Day Job

Major Phil Disney-Spiers is currently training for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Equitation Championships.

Tuesday 15 June 2010

Army Radio News - 15 Jun 10


It's Taken 12 Years But The Wait's Now Over And The Outcome To The Bloody Sunday Inquiry's Been Revealed


Lord Saville, the reports author, has ruled that the events of the day were unjustified and the British Army was the first to fire. It was the longest and most expensive public inquiry in UK legal history.

The Scots Guards Have Taken Over Responsibility For An Area Previously Looked After By Americans In Afghanistan

The new role means more challenges for the British troops

The Final Touches Are Being Put In Place For The Royal Army Medical Corps' Funday

It's happening this Saturday at Aldershot Garrison.

Monday 14 June 2010

Army Radio News - 14 Jun 10

The Defence Secretary's Announced Afghanistan Is Still Top Of The Agenda

During a press conference where he set out his priorities for a major review, Dr Liam Fox described it as their moral duty to ensure soldiers and their families were cared for during and after their service. However, he also said the military will have to bear its share of the need to slash public spending

The Secretary Of State For Defence Has Welcomed The Rapid Progress In Training The Afghan National Security Forces

Although Dr Fox praised NATO for their role in the Training Mission, he insisted that NATO Allies still need to up their game.

There Was Shock This Weekend After Britain's Most Senior Military Officer Announced He's Stepping Down In The Autumn

It means Air Chief Marshall Sir Jock Stirrup will no longer be Head of The Armed Forces

Another Mercian Hero - Those Are The Words Used To Describe A British Soldier Killed In Afghanistan Over The Weekend

Lance Corporal Andrew Breeze of 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment B Company was attached to 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles Battlegroup. He was taking part in an operation to clear an area close to a Check Point in Babaji in order to increase security around the military base.

The Queen's 84th Birthday Was Celebrated In Style This Weekend

Soldiers of the Household Division paraded to mark Her Royal Highness's Official Birthday.
The Ceremony known as "Trooping the Colour" was performed by 1st Battalion Grenadier.

141 UK Service Personnel Have Been Granted State Honours By The Queen In Her Birthday Honours List

The founders of Help for Heroes Bryn and Emma Parry were also recognised. They each received OBE's for the services to the Armed Forces as civilians.

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

Bagging the 1st prize of 10 thousand pounds is Pte Tyrrell from the Royal School of Signals at Blandford Camp. LCpl Bennett of FISU came second, winning 5 thousand. Ssgt Johnson of HQ RMP SIB at Bulford won the third prize of 2 and a half grand.

Friday 11 June 2010

Army Radio News - 11 Jun 10

The UK Has No Plans To Send More Troops To Afghanistan

The Prime Minister says he has no intention of increasing manpower in the country.

The Next Generation Of Body Armour Is Going To Be Introduced Into Theatre This Winter

The Osprey Mark 4 body armour will protect troops while they work and fight by providing better fitting and newly upgraded armour. 16 Air Assault Brigade will be the first to use it when they deploy to Afghanistan in October.

Tributes Have Been Paid To Private Jonathan Michael Monk From 2nd Battalion The Princess Of Wales's Royal Regiment

Attached to 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment he was killed in an explosion in Afghanistan on Wednesday.

A Team Of Padre's Have Recently Returned From A Battlefield Study Tour Of Dunkirk

The seventeen strong team saw for themselves the role Padre's played during the second world war.

Thursday 10 June 2010

Army Radio News - 10 Jun 10

The Prime Minister's Announced An Extra 67 Million Pounds Is To Be Spent On Countering The IED Threat in Afghanistan

David Cameron's been holding talks with President Karzai in the capital, Kabul.

The MOD's Revealed The Soldier Killed In Afghanistan On Tuesday Was Lance Bombardier Mark Chandler From 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery

He was attached to 4 Reg RA serving as part of the Combined Force Nad 'Ali when he died in a small arms fire exchange with insurgents.

Soldiers Of 1st Battalion The Royal Welsh Have Been Recognised By The Queen

Her Majesty presented medals to the troops following their recent tour of Afghanistan.

Several Events Are Planned This Weekend To Honour The Queen's Official Birthday

On Saturday The Colour will be Trooped by 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards in the Presence of Her Majesty. Yorkshire Cadets are also helping to celebrate. For the first time ever they'll be taking part in the Royal Salute in York.

Several Royal Salutes Have Been Held In Honour Of The Duke Of Edinburgh's 89th Birthday


The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery fired a 41 Gun Royal Salute in Hyde Park. Another was also held in York.

Wednesday 9 June 2010

Army Radio News - 09 Jun 10

Relationships Are Improving Between ISAF Forces And Afghan Locals

Garrison FM's been speaking with Gunner Lance Corporal Josh Libro of the Queen's Royal Lancers, who's currently based at Camp Bastion. He says things are getting better all the time.

British Forces Fighting In Afghanistan Should Be A Priority For UK Military Funding

That's according to the Chief of The General Staff, General Sir David Richards. He made the comments during a key note speech at a Royal United Services Institute conference on Tuesday.

The Secretary Of State For Defence Has Met His US Counterpart

Dr Liam Fox and Defence Secretary Robert Gates had a wide-ranging discussion on defence issues affecting both countries.

A Chinook Pilot Says He'll Carry On With His Role Despite Being Shot Whilst Flying

A bullet hit Flight Lieutenant Ian Fortune between the eyes as he was taking part in a medical evacuation. Luckily, his headgear protected him and he was able to complete the mission.

With The World Cup Kicking Off On Friday There Are Fears More People May Risk Drink Driving

Statistics show during major sporting events the number does rise. To combat the problem, soldiers at Catterick Garrison have teamed up with safety experts to promote the message to always have a designated driver.

Tuesday 8 June 2010

Army Radio News - 08 Jun 10

The Medical Care Of Injured Soldiers Has Been Given A Boost

A dedicated military ward's been created in the new Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

A Dedication Service Has Been Held For The 119 British Forces Personnel Killed Last Year

Hundreds gathered at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to pay tribute.

A Veteran Helicopter's Not Yet Ready For The Scrap Yard

A Chinook from the Falklands campaign's just returned from service on Operation Herrick in Afghanistan.

As Relationships Grow Between Members Of The Afghan National Army And UK Personnel The Language Barriers Are Coming Down

Private Daryn Liddle of 1 SCOTS is currently in Afghanistan, He learnt Dari before being deployed and since arriving has picked up Pashtu too thanks to soldiers from the ANA.

The Grenadier Guard's Have Come Under The Spotlight

A documentary following the regiment as it prepared to lead the 2010 Trooping the Colour was aired on TV on Monday night.

Monday 7 June 2010

Army Radio News - 07 Jun 10

Soldiers From 2 Para Are Preparing For Their Third Tour Of Aghanistan

They're due to go out on the next rotation. 15 lost their lives the last time they were there and as the threat of IED's grows steps are being taken to make sure the best kit is made available.

Tributes Have Been Paid To Two Soldiers Killed In Afghanistan on Friday

Corporal Terry Webster and Lance Corporal Alan Cochran were both from 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment B Company attached to 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Battlegroup.

Soldiers Serving With The Combined Force Nad-e Ali Battlegroup Have Been Involved In A Dramatic Push South Into Insurgent Held Territory

The week long operation, called Op Tor Mahke Zi or Black Push Forward aimed to move Taliban fighters away from the population centres and establish new patrol bases.

120 Troops From 11 Light Brigade Have Marched Through London

They started at Wellington Barracks, went down to Birdcage Walk, through Parliament Square and finally through the Carriage Gates.

They May Be All The Way In Afghanistan but Those On The Frontline Aren't Going To Miss Out On One Of The Biggest Sporting Events
This weekend, soldiers will be able to watch the England v USA match live, operational duties and patrols permitting of course

This Month Sees A Number Of Events Being Held To Mark The Fourth Birthday Of The Yorkshire Regiment

Over the weekend, all four battalions got together for the first time since their formation on June 6th 2006.

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

Bagging the 1st prize of 10 thousand pounds is LCpl Hayes from RAF Digby. LCpl Kyle of 3 SCOTS came second, winning 5 thousand. Maj Edwards from HQ AMD in Camberley won the third prize of 2 and a half grand.

Friday 4 June 2010

Army Radio News - 04 Jun 10

State Of The Art Facilities For Injured Troops Have Been Opened By Prince William At Headley Court

The new complex marks a milestone for the rehabilitation of wounded troops and also the charity Help for Heroes who donated eight million pounds to the project.

A Military Ward Is Being Created At The New Queen Elizabeth Hospital In Birmingham

Battlefield casualties receiving treatment at Selly Oak will be moved to the new ward later this month.

This Month See A Series Of Events To Mark The 4th Birthday Of The Yorkshire Regiment

They are going to be presented with a new set of colours they will get the chance to show off to the public at a parade in York on the 19th June.

Involving The Afghan National Army In Pre-Deployment Training Is Key To Successful Mentoring

That's according to the 2IC of 1 Scots Charlie Company Capt Stewart, who says the process began back at Dreghorn Barracks ahead of their latest tour of Afghanistan.

Civvies and Soldiers are being offered the chance to sign up to this year's Para 10 Challenge

There are two 10 mile races where you have to complete a gruelling course in the fastest time possible.

Thursday 3 June 2010

Army Radio News - 03 Jun 10


It's Been Two Months Since The Royal Dragoon Guards Deployed To Afghanistan


Despite being spread out across the south of the country the regiment's settled into a routine. Garrison FM spoke with the Commanding Officer Lt Col James Carr-Smith earlier who said their intensive training meant there were no surprises.

The MOD's Service Personnel And Veterans Agency's Been Recognised

It's received two industry awards for its management of the UK forces' Joint Personnel Administration system.

For The Second Year Running The Exercise Eagles Aga 10 Field Catering And Military Skills Competition's Been Held


The event took place at Colchester's Friday Woods Training Area.

Budding Photographers Are Being Urged To Come Forward

The Army Photographic Competition 2010's being held later in the year

The Army Families Federation Has Marked The End Of National Family Week With A Big Tea Party On Salisbury Plain

Over 100 army families came together in Tidworth to join in the fun

Wednesday 2 June 2010

Army Radio News - 02 Jun 10

Prince Charles Has Been Recognising The Courage Of Soldiers Of The Blackwatch

At Balhousie Castle, His Royal Highness gave them their Afghanistan campaign medals.

The North Of England's Been Celebrating The Anniversary Of The Coronation Of The Queen

A Royal Salute was held in York to mark the occasion.

There've Been A Lot Of Changes - Those Are The Words Of The Padre To The Kings Royal Hussars Who's Just Returned From The Falkland Islands

Roy Burley was last there between July and December 1982.


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

Bagging the 1st prize of 10 thousand pounds is Maj Field of 101 Logisitc Brigade HQ and Signal Squadron 261. Pte Tamang of 10 Transport Reg, The Queens Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment came second, winning 5 thousand. Maj Tomkins from RGBWLI won the third prize of 2 and a half grand.

Tuesday 1 June 2010

Army Radio News - 01 Jun 10

New Command Structures In Afghanistan Are Now In Place

Regional Command South has been split into two areas with headquarter's in Helmand and Kandahar.

A Medic With The Royal Army Medical Corps Been Speaking Of His Experiences On The Frontline

Lance Corporal Michael McLoughlin is currently attached to The Royal Dragoon Guards and is serving in the southern district of Nad-e-Ali.

250 Soldiers From 10 The Queen's Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment Have Been Honored

Family and Friends watched as they were given their Afghanistan campaign medals by the Chief of the General Staff General Sir David Richards.

Hundreds Gathered For The Forces Festival At Bulford This Bank Holiday Monday

As well as having fair rides, fly-pasts and military displays it was the grand finale to the Forces March, where participants took part in 5 marathons in 5 days.