THE MERCIAN REGIMENT Quarterly newsletter - Q4 2024

1 MERCIAN - COMMANDING OFFICER'S FOREWORD

Lt Col Brown

The final quarter of 2024 has been characteristically busy, with elements of our battalion engaged on helping the Home Office house entitled Afghans, conduct a battlegroup exercise in horrendous weather conditions, and compete in various international competitions.

The battalion has worked hard to excel in all of these areas and more, from the eye-catching activity to the less glamorous, but all important, day-to-day work that keep an Armoured Infantry unit going.

I am deeply grateful to the efforts of all of our Service Personnel for their efforts, and to their loved ones for the continued support that they provide. 1 MERCIAN’s reputation is strong, and that is all down to the hard graft of our people.

1 MERCIAN - Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL 2024

Lt Gray

B Company were tasked with this year’s CAMBRIAN PATROL, providing Recce platoon with some well-earned respite after back-to-back years in the seat.

Prior to the Exercise, the team conducted an intensive week of training in Dartmoor, led by LCpl King and LCpl Watts from the Recce Platoon. This ‘zero to hero’ week combined all aspects of the patrol, with each member designated as an SME in a specific skill set. In challenging weather and terrain, the team really began to find its feet, and the camaraderie gained from this exercise was priceless in the face of one of the worlds hardest patrols.

Training completed; the team then deployed to Brecon in the early hours of the morning. After scoring full marks on the kit and comms checks, Lt Gray then received orders from the familiar face of CSgt Evans - a fellow Mercian and B Coy veteran. The orders set the conditions for success on the patrol and the team was full of enthusiasm as we stepped off.

The first stages of the patrol involved cross-country navigation in unpredictable weather conditions, with some members carrying over 50kg of equipment. On arriving at the CBRN stand, the sun finally made an appearance just in time dress state 4 and the DS were in good spirits as they led an uphill extraction away from the chemical threat. The next stage then required a wet gap crossing. Arriving in darkness and donning only their underwear and jungle hats, the team dived straight into the Brecon waters with high morale.

The team then received some timely intelligence regarding a helicopter crash and as we patrolled up to the moors, we encountered a 4km stretch of bog. The heavens opened up, and the only light came from the fireworks display of mini flares as teams withdrew around us. Despite energy and morale hitting rock bottom, the team quickly revived themselves and performed exceptionally in the mass casualty scenario in front of them – a testament to their will and character.

Relief came as we ditched our bergens and were transported to Sennybridge Training Area for the second phase of the patrol. The next challenge was a reconnaissance mission of an enemy position conducted via drone. Each team member made detailed notes and sketches according to their roles and we were quick to identify the various enemy assets.

The information gathered needed to be delivered to a CP in Cellini Village, however we encountered a relic minefield on route. Clearing a safe path through this proved to be a mixed success, but the team remained focused. Upon arriving in Cellini village, we were contacted by indirect fire (IDF) and executed a swift extraction into a nearby building with “the best drills we’ve seen so far” – Brecon Colour Sergeant.

Inside the building, the team prepared their patrol report while the commander and 2IC conducted AFV recognition and fire missions on the enemy mortar line. With the patrol report complete and Cellini secured, the team embarked on a long tab to a suspected enemy position to the northeast. Here we conducted a section attack by night before detaining enemy personnel beyond the cleared position. As Infanteers, the team took this opportunity to really showcase their infantry skills and experience.

The final leg of our journey led us to a farm where the team was interrogated on every aspect of the patrol. With the heaters on full blast, the team won the battle of the eye lids and delivered a full back brief on the last 48hrs.

Overall, the 1 MERCIAN Cambrian Patrol team delivered an outstanding performance. All eight members completed the patrol, displaying exceptional resilience and camaraderie throughout, and they were rewarded with a silver medal for their efforts. The battalion was quick to recognise this achievement with a reception in the WO’s and Sgt’s mess on their arrival back to camp – a fitting end to rewarding few weeks.

4 MERCIAN - BATTLEFIELD STUDY TO ARNHEM

WO1 (RSM) Fowles

80th Anniversary of Operation MARKET GARDEN

Soldiers and officers of the 4th Battalion deployed to Arnhem in the Netherlands to complete a Battlefield Study of Op MARKET GARDEN to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Airborne and Gliderborne Operations that took place in September 1944. The battlefield study, Ex FIRM GARDEN, focused on the 2nd Battalion, The South Staffordshire Regiment who were one of the main units who fought alongside units from the Parachute Regiment.

During the Battlefield Study, members of 4 MERCIAN took time looking at all the components of fighting power, focusing on leadership skills and the moral component of warfare, as well as the planning and logistical challenges that such an ambitious operation such as MARKET GARDEN created. Prior to arriving in Arnhem for the start of the battlefield study, pre-reading of historical publications and a Battalion-produced study-pack to set the strategic and operational context took place. This allowed for the scene to be set and for all ranks to gain a full understanding of each element of the visit.

Op MARKET GARDEN, and specifically the Battle for Arnhem has the strongest of links with one of our antecedent regiments who deployed in gliders to mark Drop Zones (DZ) before marching into battle. The light infantry-centric nature of the operation provided excellent historical examples to stimulate doctrinal discussion on contemporary issues, in addition to considering the complexity of multi-national operations and combined arms manoeuvre.

• The battalion visited Hartenstein Hotel, in Oosterbeek which focused on the 1st Airborne Division and Route Lion into Arnhem.
• The battalion paid a visit to the Commonwealth War Graves, researching fallen soldiers of the South Staffordshire Regiment.
• The battalion visited both John Frost and De Oversteek Bridge, looking at how we might have secured those objectives in a modern warfare context using equipment available today.

Finally, the Battalion finished the Battlefield study with tours at the Wings of Liberation, and the Freedom Museum, with the Commanding Officer laying a Mercian Regiment Wreath at the Glider Infantry Monument. It was a thoroughly excellent trip and it is hoped that future events can be organised around this most famous piece of history to keep the connection between Op MARKET GARDEN and the Mercian Regiment alive.

THE BAND OF THE MERCIAN REGIMENT

Finishing the year with a flourish!

Following on from their successful concert in Lichfield Cathedral, The Band of the Mercian Regiment finished the year in good cheer entertaining those who had braved the storms with a now traditional Christmas Concert at St Michael & All Angels in Tettenhall. There were stunning solos from Musician Katie Jenner on Clarinet, with Viktor’s Tale, and from L/Cpl Michelle Pithers, with a contemporary vocal take on Wham’s Last Christmas. The church rang with the now traditional audience carol singing and a feast of Christmas music new and old.

Earlier that day, 25 of the Band were presented with their King’s Coronation Medals, which represents 5 years' service leading up to the Coronation date. The medals were presented by the Honorary Colonel, Colonel Carl Richardson, on parade in Wolverhampton. Congratulations to all.

In November, Remembrance Sunday saw the Band return to parade in Birmingham City Centre - shoulder to shoulder with members of the Armed Forces Community, City Officials and members of the public in Remembrance. As 1100hrs approached, Major General Timothy Hodgetts CB CBE KHS read the Act of Commemoration before Corporal Wendy Robert sounded the Last Post. Heads bowed in silent reflection as the community came together to remember. Wreaths were laid by Dignitaries, Representatives from the Armed Forces, Officials, Local Community Representatives and Veterans. Following the service, The Band led the parade on a complete circuit of the Cathedral Square and past the dais, where the salute was taken by the Lord Mayor of Birmingham.

Duty Bugler, Cpl Wendy Robert was also out on parade on the 11th of November to sound the Last Post and Reveille at The College of Policing, Police National Search Centre, near Coventry as part of the Act of Remembrance and wreath laying service.

Small ensembles and groups have been out and about adding pomp and ceremony to regimental dinners and events across the region including the first outing for the Brass Ensemble at the Rewards and Awards Dinner for tri-service military consultants who have been working within the NHS. The event was held in the Officer’s Mess at DMS Whittington: well played!

Personnel successes

A big welcome to Lance Corporal Mathew Curtis who has recently transferred to The Band of the Mercian Regiment. LCpl Curtis, who is a talented saxophonist by trade and is also often seen playing bassoon, clarinet and a multitude of other instruments, has served with the Band of the Coldstream Guards, The British Army Band Sandhurst and The Band of the Welsh Guards.

An overdue welcome to The Band of the Mercian Regiment for Musician Andrew Elwood who has transferred from The Band, Bugles, Pipes and Drums of the Royal Irish Regiment and settled in the Midlands. As a keen runner and orienteer, he is looking forward to exploring the area.

Welcome to the Midlands and to the Band! The Band of the Mercian Regiment is currently recruiting.

STOCKPORT BRANCH CRA & MVRA: THE MERCIAN REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION

East Cheshire Reunion Dinner

Members of the association, together with ex members of the Cheshire Regiment, attended the 77th East Cheshire Reunion Dinner. In total 108 members were treated to an evening of music and speeches by honoured guests.

7th November Festival of Remembrance Manchester Airport

The Festival of Remembrance, which is held in the Concorde Hangar at Manchester Airport, is not perhaps as well known as the one held at the Royal Albert Hall, but is no less of a celebration of the lives and the sacrifices that members of all services have made not only during the world wars, but in the years since.

This year the festival remembered not only the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings, but also the battles at Montecassino, and Operation Market Garden. Mike Rogers attended this year's event as standard bearer for the association.

Wreath Laying at Stockport County vs Bolton

At the Stockport County match against Bolton, commemorative wreaths were laid in the centre circle for remembrance weekend. Derek Sykes, Dave Willis, Steve Whaite, and Mike Rogers were standard bearers for the association together with standard bearers from other services across Stockport.

Remembrance Parade Stockport

Members of the association attended the annual Remembrance parade in Stockport, which was well attended by all branches of the Armed Forces. This also included Cadet and voluntary organisations, all in the presence of the Mayoress of Stockport, civic dignitaries and representatives from many faith groups. Mike Rogers carried the MRA Standard for the parade.

Once again the service and the parade were well attended and supported by the people of Stockport. The association recognises this and wishes to thank the people of Stockport for their continued support.

Armistice Day Stockport

A 2-minute silence was held at the war memorial in Stockport. This was attended by members of the association, including Steve Whaite and Mike Rogers as standard bearers, in the presence of the Mayoress of Stockport and civic dignitaries, officiated by Captain Lesley Oldham.

Ladies Xmas Dinner Night

On Friday 6th December saw the annual Ladies Dinner Night, which is hosted as a thank you to the wives and girlfriends of members. The event was well attended. The association wishes to extend its thanks to all those that helped to make the evening a success.

Special mention goes to Pete Galley, Erica Mills, and Pete Marsh for organising and cooking the meal, Les Heighway and Steve Whaite for running the bar.

STAFFORDSHIRE REGIMENT ASSOCIATION

SRACC – 80th Anniversary Battle of Arnhem Commemoration Ride 18-24 Sept 2024

80 years ago, Operation Market Garden began. The plan was to drop troops of the First Allied Airborne Army by Parachute and Glider to capture key bridges in Holland. This was then supported by the British 2nd Army to push through the airborne corridor to break into Germany.

The 2nd Bn the South Staffordshire Regiment were part of the ‘Market’ airborne element, and over the 17th & 18th of September 1944, 767 men deployed in Gliders, landing just north of Arnhem.

Over the next 9 days, the Battalion would be involved in some of the fiercest fighting of the War. By the end of the battle, 85 men had been killed, 558 had been captured and 124 men were eventually evacuated across the river to safety. For Gallantry, two members of the Battalion were awarded the Victoria cross.

On the 18th September 2024, an assembled team from the Staffordshire Regimental Association Cycle Club, embarked on their 80th Anniversary Commemoration Ride. Between the 18-24 September. The team rode over 400 miles with their aim, to follow, as best they could, the route that the 2nd South Staffords took. From their homes in Staffordshire, to their Base at Woodhall Spa in Lincolnshire; before they deployed to Arnhem. The Team were grateful that both mascots, Sgt Watchman VI & Pte Derby XXXIII where there to see the team off.

During the ride, the SRACC carried out commemorations on behalf of the Regimental family to honour all those that fought in the battle. Sadly, the Veterans who were there are diminishing year on year. So, it is left to the next generations, to continue to remind, remember and honour that solemn oath ‘Lest We forget’ and the sacrifices of those brave men at Arnhem.

Keeping with the Regimental family theme, the team had the honour and privilege to have the families of 4 men of the Battalion who fought in the Battle to commemorate with us. The families of Major Robert Cain VC, LCpl Victor Chillingsworth, Pte Alfred Johnson and Pte Amos Fairbrother joined us once in Arnhem. Major Cain’s Daughter riding with us from Rotterdam.

With great support from the Regimental Museum and the Regimental Family as a whole, the members of the SRACC, were committed to this commemoration ride, not just by attending, but also to replicate, in some small way the Mental and Physical hardships that the Soldiers at Arnhem endured. Although the ride was specifically to commemorate the battle, it was quite a significant distance and, as it was a challenge, they supported the following charities.

• Mercian Regiment Benevolent Fund – Regimental Fund to support serving soldiers and Veterans of the Mercian Regiment and its Antecedent Regiments.
• The Staffordshire 3 Memorial Fund – A fund established to raise money for a permanent Memorial for 3 Soldiers of the Regiment who were killed on Op Telic 6.

The Commemorations in Schoonhoven, Arnhem and Oosterbeek were a very emotional and a real family affair with as mentioned the families of the fallen joining us on the day. We were honoured to have them with us at the various key locations where the Regiment Landed, fought and were laid to rest. We held commemorations at the following locations.

• 1st Airlanding Bde Memorial – Woodhall Spa
• The Lone Soldier – Pte Clarence Ash – Schoonhoven
• Glider Memorial – LZ S just north of Wolfheze
• CWGC Cemetery – Oosterbeek
• Baskeyfield Tree – The site where LSgt J D Baskeyfield won his Victoria Cross
• Old Church Oosterbeek – Site where the final defence of Arnhem took place and near to where Maj Robert Cain won his Victoria Cross
• Municipal Museum (Monastery) – The location of the last attempt by the Regiment and Division to get to the besieged units holding the bridge
• Resistance Memorial – Woeste Hoeve 117 Dutch Resistance killed in reprisals after ‘Market Garden

The Arnhem 80 Ride was a great achievement. The team rode 413 miles with the wind in our faces the whole time. It was tough both physically and mentally with sore legs, sore bums, and sore eyes for us all. In particular the Dike road from Rotterdam to Arnhem and back. The wind, like the Germans in Sept 1944 never gave us Stafford’s a break. It was an emotional rollercoaster for the team with memories that will last a lifetime.

For all the SRACC’s efforts we were generously supported and raised £6266, which has been split equally between the two charities.

We hope we have done the Regimental family proud.

THE STAFFORDSHIRE CORPS OF DRUMS

The Staffordshire Corps of Drums has had a very steady year. We are now practicing at the Staffordshire Regiment museum in Lichfield on every 3rd Saturday of the month.

For this year's Remembrance Sunday, we paraded at Brewood, Staffordshire, leading the parade to and from St Mary & St Chad Church. We then performed a static display at the Royal British Legion.

New members are welcome, with or without music experience. We can offer training on most corps of drums instruments. Uniform and instruments are provided.

For further information please reach out to RHQ Mercian via communications@mercianregiment.co.uk and your details will be passed along to the Corps of Drums.

The next Corps of Drums practice is Saturday 15th March at 1000 hrs at the Staffordshire Regiment Museum. Those interested in Corps of Drums music are welcome!

PLANNING FOR YOUR FAMILY SHOULD THE WORST HAPPEN

Planning tips to help your next of kin

Like every good soldier, it is best to be prepared, as Benjamin Franklin wrote that nothing can be certain, except death and taxes. It is not ghoulish to give serious thought to how your loved ones would cope with sorting out your affairs if they do not have the necessary information. Putting together an emergency file that contains your personal data of birth, marriage certificates and details of insurance policies would help the family with the inevitable administration.

Important numbers:

1. National Insurance Number
2. Military Service Number
3. NHS Number
4. Driving License Number
5. Passport Number

Where to find things:

1. Your Will
2. Power of attorney
3. Insurance policies
4. Deeds of house or lease of house
5. Rent book and tenancy details
6. Medical cards
7. Pension documents
8. Birth /marriage certificates
9. Banking/savings information
10. Certificate of stocks/shares or investments
11. Income Tax records
12. Car documentation
13. Keys
14. Address book
15. Pre-paid Funeral Plan
16. Computer passwords
17. Valuable items

Initial action by the bereaved:

1. Inform doctor
2. Register the death and obtain the death certificate (get a minimum of eight copies)
3. Inform relatives and friends
4. Consult the will, identify the executor
5. Instruct funeral director
6. Inform Armed Forces Pensions at Veterans UK (Call them if Spouse is entitled)
7. Apply for pensions as necessary
8. Inform Gov.UK if claiming State Pension
9. Make appropriate insurance claims
10. Instruct a solicitor to wind up the estate
11. Prepare obituary
12. Cancel policies that are paid out by direct debit
13. Inform/change gas/electric account holder
14. Inform local council ref council tax if account holder
15. Inform Bank (if separate or joint account)

Tell us Once:

Tell Us Once is a UK Government Web Site that will give good advice and inform all Government departments at: What to do after someone dies: Tell Us Once - GOV.UK. They will also contact some public sector pension schemes so that they cancel future pension payments:

1. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) - to deal with personal tax and to cancel benefits and credits, for example Child Benefit and tax credits
2. Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) - to cancel benefits and entitlements, for example Universal Credit or State Pension
3. Passport Office - to cancel a British passport
4. Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) - to cancel a licence, remove the person as the keeper of up to 5 vehicles and end the vehicle tax
5. The local council - to cancel Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction (sometimes called Council Tax Support), a Blue Badge, inform council housing services and remove the person from the electoral register
6. Veterans UK - to cancel or update Armed Forces Compensation Scheme payments
7. Social Security Scotland - to cancel benefits and entitlements from the Scottish Government, for example Scottish Child Payment
8. Armed Forces Pension Scheme (note it is better if you have a surviving spouse to call them direct)
9. Civil Service Pension Scheme (note it is better if you have a surviving spouse to call them direct)
10. NHS Pensions for NHS staff in England and Wales
11. Pension Protection Fund and Financial Assistance Scheme
12. Local Government Pension Schemes (LGPS)

Details of who to tell:

1. Doctor
2. Friends and relatives
3. Solicitor and estate executor
4. Bank
5. Employer
6. Veterans UK if getting a military pension (please call them direct)
7. HMRC
8. Dentist
9. Gov.UK if obtaining state pensions or entitlements (done by Tell us Once)