Londonderry 1983 Issue 2

Londonderry, July, 1983 Issue 2

eemfs

NEWSLETTER

(

2nd BATTALION THE QUEEN'S REGIMENT

On the 5th July the Com- "‘
manding Officer, Lt Col .; . ’

Peter Packham, handed ‘

over command of the

Battalion after nearly two ~.
and a half years as CO.

Having been dined out of
the various Messes in the
previous week, the CO 5

linally handed over command
to Lt Col Mike Constantine

. . .‘ at 1400 hours on 5th July.
Army “snot, m Grltfln, dlsplays his He was then ceremonial/y
towed out of barracks in a
5'5““ Winnings- Land Rover pulled by his .
k
Officers and Warrant Officers,
Rueeqsman ma es with the rest of the Battalion

rmy eam lining the route.

0'.“ 0‘ “‘de high‘igl‘f‘j fe'anfu’exfi'] Under Lt Col Peter’s com-

#:3222582?“ $32: was the serection mend; the Battalion has had
of Pte Wayne Griffin of o lHW) Company an extremely busy time. We

for the Army Pistol Team, which won the have had a six-month unac.

“w":fzmzifr‘t'“tentatit'xizr; compamed Unned Nations The CO leaves the barracks for the last time.

Championship (to an ex-Queensman, Cap» [OUT In Cyprus, as well as

‘ain John Dawson RMP) also made the two periods of Op Spearhead. We have taken partinaFie/d Force Concentration atOtterburn and

gydgd7563‘hzl1g‘rf‘aEgigf”:$:?ce‘:a'pn have been involved in two highly successful ceremonial events—the march through the City of

consisting of cssn Mac MoAndrew, Sgt London in July 1981, and later that year, the visit of the massed bands of the Queen’s Division to

Tony rltllagin and CPte ngs Mszarchzntwwhho Hyderabad Barracks,

wont e ueens p, t ee '1 ,,

who made the Ami, Hungwd‘gn gym 3;: . Latterlyhe has brought the Battalion across to Londonderry and seen us settle In on all fronts

Cpl Tich Kirkaldie and Pte Chris Merchant in this demanding and challenging posting.

(,'lhl dthSMG75. .. .. . .

”3L", 32,3513: me me Maj-O, Unit We Wish him God speed and good luck In his new apporntment at the MOD in London.

Championship was 28th, compared with
38th last year. This encourages much op-
timism for a further improvement in 1984.
For a full list of results see page 4.

FAREWELL MESSAGE

FROM

LTCOL P F PACKHAM MBE

At the end of my tour in command of the
Second Battalion I would like to express my
thanks to all ranks for their loyal support and
hard work over the last two and a half years.

It has been an honour and a privilege for me
to command this Battalion and I am very sad to
be finishing Regimental duty after so many
years. However, I look forward to seeing many
of you at Regimental reunions in the future.

I send all of you and your families my very
best wishes for the remainder of the tour in
Londonderry.

PETER PACKHAM.

The Army Short Range Snlpsv Cham- I Lt Col Pater Packham hands over to Lt Col

plons display the Queen's cup. Mike Con-tantlnc.

2 QUEENS NEWSLETTER

'HQ' Company

After another exhausting day Cpl “Jaws" Garrlck failsto stay awake forthls Section HQCOY HO. News from the
snap-shot.
Since the last Newsletter a number of Quartermasters
A Company, are mourning the death this The tour was rounded off nicely when changes have occurred. Cpl GLEN
year of the Invrcta Competitioniyes, realr LCpl BURR of 1 platoon found a Wood- BARKER has left us to become the G Trg Platoon
lyl I do not wrsh to be smug but we have master rifle while he was on the cordon for Clk in Butllns (Bn HO) and Cpl PETE
won the shooting, the boxing, the tennis a search op) It did wonders for morale and ROGERS has joined us as his replacement. Since the last edition of the Newsletter
and rhe tennis doubles Our thanks go to so A Company was in good form right until Pte DAVE JOY has left to join Dr Death's we have seen a change of Quartermaster.
H0 Company for complaining about the the last day of the city tour. team at the MRS We have said goodbye to Maj "Stan The
lttter and putting us in first place. The Man" BILLETT and have welcomed in his
shooting had a very moving finale, or It has been a period of "hellos" and Cpl MICK FAGG's son PETER and four place Capt MJ AYLING. Another arrival is
rather it didn't, since the moving targets "goodbyes”. First to go, off to Lon- of his friends found an ammunition cache Sgt Carl FEARON who has joined us from 5
don7UOTC was CSM McCAIG to be of 700 assorted rounds and various other QUEENS. Also we have said farewell to Pte
refused to move even after a sharp talking replaced by the ever vibrant CSM items in an old farmyard behind the M80 "Arsonist" SHAWLEY who has left us for
to by CSM REARDON! As for the boxing FRANCE. CSIVI McCAIG gave a good area in Eglintont Pte RUSS RUSSELL is civvy street much to the relief of the fire pi-
PTEs HENRY, BOVELLE (87), PATRICK farewell, speech, thanked us for his clock shortly to attempt his driving test and is quet and the local Fire Brigade.
and McPHERSON all distinguished and said that it would be nice with all the also planning to get married in August. Mrs
themse)ves With energetic if not world othersl CSGT MILLER, after serving three KIM ROGERS is expecting a baby Our latest pastime in keeping with
class style WInS years as A Company COMS, has been sometime in July; congratulations to Cpl "SlNC" (Soldiers in Camp) is spot the
committed to a Mental institutionino, ac- PETE ROGERS on getting it organised after Tech QM (who is rarer than a nine bob
On the 29th of May we hit the city, and tually he's gorng to the TA. We have also six years. note). Anyone can play, any sighting is to
in return a great deal of it hit us. Since then swopped "Geoff" for “Jeffrey.” The now be reported to the TOMS, Ext 375.
A Company have not looked back. That Is Captain Geoff CROSS (congratulations on The daily runs are flourishing under the
until PTE KNIGHT got hit on the back of your promotion) leaves 2 platoon for D CSM's (W02 MICK REARDON) direction Finally the ROMS would like it known
the head wrth a milk bottle, The tour was (HW) Company and the anti»tank platoon. although with all the rain more often than that he is not a season ticket holder with
very active, marked by the natives tenden- Just how many tanks he finds in the city re often not they bear more resemblance to British Airways, however he does admit to
cy to throw around large quantities of local mains to be seen, but we wish him all the swimming tests. CSgt SPEEDY WHITE is being on christian name terms with the
masonary and other items normally confin- best, JOIning us is a "nig" in the form of away at Bisley with the Battalion Shooting shuttle pilots.
co to a DIY shop. We discovered that milk 2LT JEFFREY who takes over 2 platoon. Team at present and we wish him the best
certainly has "got a lotta bottle" and wrsh of luck. SIGNAL PLATOON
the hell it would come in plastic containers) Our congratulations go to Capt "Ben
Nevis" MORRIS who has become a pad. Finally on a commercial note, the HO The only event of any note to involve the
Spurred on by our successes on the Capt MORRIS, who was the scourge of the Coy Video Library has sadly gone into Signal Platoon in the last few months was
sports field we were tempted to enter the A Company Ops Room by banning smokr voluntary liquidation. However to replace it an inter-platoon league football match
Londonderry marathon. No one, however, ing and opening all the windows so he we are now offering prints of some of the against 3 Platoon. This was played on Fri»
could find a 2 QUEENS tracksuit so we could feel at home, ie, half way up a moun- more famous Regimental paintings, which day, June 17 and because of its impor»
gave It a miss tain, is reputed to have removed all the can be viewed during office hours and ac- tance, a neutral ground at Clooney was
windows in his new quarter. PTE NEACY is quired at very modest rates from our selected as a venue. Those who know this
The event of the month was the visut by also to be congratulated on his marriage, gallery at the Coy Office. Apply in person ground will remember that its application
the Secretary of State for Defence, Mr. to our Managing Director Major JAMES for acceptance as an international standard
Michael HASELTINE and the C68 Gen Sir Well thats dealt with the obituaries and A EWART. pitch was rejected on the grounds of its 1:4
John STANIER. They received briefings Company having returned from leave and slope, and the lattice of trenches, reminis»
both in the Fort George Ops Room and "shaken out" to accommodate the recent MT PLATOON cent of Flanders Field, which unfortunately
then out on the famous City Walls. The changes looks forward to spending the covers 90% of the playing area. Comforted
resultant publicity got the mug of one of summer in Londonderryior was that surnr NOTES by the thought that pure football skills
our ugly subalterns on the front page of the met last week?7 would overcome those trivial obstacles, the
Regimental Magazine and signed copies Many miles have passed under our spectator prepared himself for a feast of at
wheels since the last notes were written, tacking football.
are now available for a modest feel| which as far as this scribe is concerned
seems like yesterday. He was not to be disappointed Within
FIND OF WOODMASTER RIFLE five minutes of the kick-off the Signal Pl at-
The pattern has been set (no comments tacking the goal to our right had opened
At dawn on 23rd May, A Company was trigger-guard of a rifle. Looking up into the from the security officer) for the tour, and their account. It was a telling psychological
tasked to provide a protective cordon for conduit he could see the weapon, with a this does allow leave etc, to be planned. moment to score the goal coming
RE Search Teams who were searching telescopic sight, wedged in the conduit. Adjusting to this for 18 months is difficult about from a long through ball which was
unoccupied addresses in the Rossville ATO was summoned and revealed a .306 after the fairly hectic life in Colchester. cleverly deflected into the path of “Pronto"
Flats. The searches proved negative, but a Woodmaster Rifle in very good condition. by a 3 Pl centre back. Gathering the ball
find was made by a member of the cordon Sgt CLIFFE WHEELER has the (ISM. maladroitly, he found himself in the
at one of the stairvvells. Although it cannot be proved, it is con- (Queen's School of Motoring) functioning bewildering position of having only the
sidered likely that the rifle was the one used and four soldiers a month are trained on the onrushing goalkeeper to beat. Remaining
LCpl “FLID” BURR, not a search-trained against a patrol the previous week—a Landrover. In addition a 1 Ton Humber cool he let fly with a sweet left foot which
NCO, but an inquisitive one, reached up in» patrol of which LCpl BURR was a Conversion Cadre is run to keep the Com- stubbed the ground sufficiently to wrong»
to a pipe conduit and felt the butt and member, panies ”topped up" with drivers. So many foot the goal-keeper and send the ball
accidents have happened recently involv- stumbling into the net. 3 Platoon are
ing reversing vehicles into innocent gate always at their most dangerous when a
posts, and other stationery objects, that a goal down and so it was a surprise to the
one week reversing cadre for the Com- spectator to see the Signal Platoon selec-
panies is under serious consideration! ting another psychological moment 5
minutes later, to go further ahead. This
The MTWO has decided that after 20 time from a set piece, Signaller Ticker
years of working with vehicles, horses are a Durham drifted a delightfully weighted left
far more satisfactory mode of transport, foot cross into the near post and once
and was seen walking around bow legged again that man Pronto popped up, dragged
after completing a five day riding cadre. the ball down with his right foot, turned on
Rumour has it, he may be training for the a sixpence and drilled the ball into the back
Grand National next year having been seen of the net
running around the camp, or is it that there
is no transport left, all of it being off the 3 Platoon came back like tigers and from
road. the kickoff enjoyed a period of intense
pressure which they eventually converted
The MT Platoon is busy reversing the into a splendidly taken goal by Pte
downward trend of the British birthrate. Smudger Smith, A penalty from Pte Lofty
Congratulations to LCpl BILL DOLLING (a Farrant, the Signal Platoon’s only interna-
son), Cpl KEITH CROUCHER (a daughter), tional, at possibly the most telling
Pte PAUL CHITTOCK (a boy), and of psychological moment just before half
course their wives. We hope you are all time, saw the Signal Platoon stretch their
well and not having too many sleepless lead to 31
nights.
Following a half-time tongue lashing
An old friend of the platoon has recently from their manager, 3 Platoon took to the
left, and it proved to be a rather expensive pitch for the second half with an air of
farewell. LCpl ‘RAT' RATCLIFFE had the determination Enjoying the advantage of
same problem as some other members of the slope they embarked on a cold blooded
the platoon in making it back by one examination of the Signal Platoon's defen-
o'clock! The beer or something must be sive frailties which resulted in a flood of
good outside that gate. goals. The Signal Platoon midfield was
overwhelmed by the more creative and in-
Welcome to two arrivals; Pte PIP dustrious 3 Platoon trio and up front Pronto
AYRES who has been recruiting in who faded badly, was eventually eclipsed
Maidstone for 2 years, and Pte SMUDGE by the increasing dominance of Jones and
SMITH who has joined us from B Com- O'Connor.
pany. Our foreman Cpl SIMON BODDIE is
pleased to have you join his diminishing The Signal Platoon defence leaking like a
gangt sieve, eventually conceded five goals in the
second-half including a hat-trick to Pte
A word on the Fort George crew of LCpl Steve Wright, and 3 Platoon ran out easy
"BERNIE THE BOLT" BYRNE and Pte winners at 6-3. In a post-match interview.
”CHRIS BONNINGTON” CARTY who credit was given to 3 Platoon for playing
keep the city Company Commander off the the ball wide, running off the ball, finding a
MTO's back, and it’s suspected, rather en- bit of space in the middle of the park and
joy being out of sight. We haven't been putting the ball in the back of the net. As
sent many fish lately from across the water the spectator was heard to comment as he
perhaps they aren't biting at present. wended his way home, In the final analysis
at the end of the day, it’s goals that
count."

‘B' (lnvictaI Company QUEENS NEWSLETTER 3

Vis tors to the Battalio

‘B' Company have had a varied past 3 A find and clearance of about 300 lbs. of VISIT OF MINISTER OF
months, with a busy tour in the City, ANFO, with booster, cordtex and a DEFENCE
leave, adventure and military training, detonator in 3 beer kegs.

Duringthe monthinthe Citythe Company A find of 1 Mini Huger 14, f x .38 Smith &
had a variety of different incidents to deal Wesson reevolver, f x VZOFi 70 Pistol,
with. Including: 17 x 5.56 rounds, 4 x .38 rounds, 5
balaclavas and 2 pairs of gloves.
21 hoax/false [£05, with clearance opera-
flons. About 200 house searches/house checks.

2 attempted murders of SF personnel. On Wednesdath May. the Secretaryof The helicopter landed at Fort George,
State for Defence, the Rt, Hon. Michael where CO ‘A' Company. Maior Robin
Heseltine, MP, visited the Battalion. He Christmas, welcomed the visitors, and
was accompanied throughout his visit by together with the Battalion 2 i/c, briefed
the 068, General Sir John Stanier. them on the role of the Battalion.

On arrival by helicopter at Ebrington This was followed by a drive to Masonic
Barracks, the visitors were met by the Base. where the Minister had a chance to
Commander 8 Bde, Brigadier Mattingley. meet members of 1 Pl ‘A' Company. he was
Mr. Heseltine was then given an aerial also briefed by 00 1 Platoon, Li Simon
recce of the city in a Gazelle helicopter, Garrett, from a posrtion on the City Walls.
accompanied by the Battalion 2 i/c, Major overlooking the BOQSIde.
Roddy Mellotte.

_ . ‘‘

‘B’ Coy search team shows oftthe Mlnl Rugerrlfle and two plstolst

April, in the Shantallow.

Among the traditional Company compe- CaptO'Ccnnorand LCplBurrtrytothink of something to say to the Defence
titions, Cpl BRENNAN won the "oldest Minister.
occupant" award, searching a house occu-
pied by a man born in 1886. Pte GILL VISIT OF GOC
walked away with the PR award for helping
schoolchildren across puddles, and Sgt "B’ Coy ORF come to Sgt Martin‘s The GOC Northern Ireland made his first Fort George, Masonic Base and Rose-
MARTIN won the “hunt the bottle“ compe- assistance formal visit to the Battalion on Wednesday mount RUC Station.
tition although it appears he may have 13th June,1983
cheated (with Cpl JEFFREY'S assistance). of those brave (stupid?) enough to clim The general had drinks in the WOs and
23E and 23F won the prize for the most the cliffs around Portrush. Ptes HUNT. The programme for his vi5it included Sgts Mess. followed by lunch With the
obscure use of voice procedure when. JANNEY and TIBBLE proved to be the brietings in the Battalion Headquarters. Officers. Whilst in the SNCOs and Sgts
chasing a car under Hawkeye‘s guidance, most ape—like of the Company, Sadly not meeting members of the COP Platoon, and Mess, he presented the LS and GC medal
they reported to him that they "had the car everyone managed much adventure a vi5it in the afternoon to City Company at to the Drum Malor. Sergeant Roger Ward
on visual!" training—Pie GREEN enjoyed taking his
APWT so much he has had no less than six VlSlt of Paymaster
A succession of marriages followed attempts at it!
during leave—congratulations are due to in Chief
LCpI ARTHEY (who was married complete Avery good relationship was established
with a black eye, following an excellent with the Royal British Legion at Portrush On Wednesday, June 8 the Paymasterr
exhibition bout with the Army Heavy- during the Company’s stay at Magilligan. in-Chief, Maj Gen L Bartlett vrsned the Bat
weight Champion), LCpI CALEY and Ptes which led to a football match against them talion. During the visit he met and talked to
which ‘8' Company won 9-1. A closely- all members of the unit pay team. He was
Pte Gill counts them all out and counts fought return match was held at Portrush, also taken on a guided tour of Londonderry
them all back! with the Company team led by W02 by Maj Mellotte in a helicopter,
WHITALL (who had recently taken over
HEATHFIELD, BROOK and KENT. Con— lrom W02 CORNICK); although "Crunchef' [It
gratulations are also due to CaptGAMLIN, Whittaldid not actually score, his gleaming
LCpls BENHAM and BAILEY (35) and Ptes tennis shorts so dazzled the much»
MORRIS, SHERGOLD and MILLS, who altered opposition that 'B‘ Company won 4-
with Cpl McCAULEY, Ptes FISHER and 2.
HUGHES (HQ Coy) and Pte GABLE (‘C'
Coy) pulled a WOmbat around the Derby At the end of June the Companysulfered
marathon. its first real casualty, As LCpI HULME'S
brick was returning from Letterkenny VCP.
in May the Company went to Magilligan a petrol bomb was thrown through the
to carry out range work and adventure driver's window, breaking on his visor:
training. Lt WILSON and Sgt LEMARE ran despite severe burns to his hands and
the ranges, Sgt BUDDLE ran canoeing arms, and burns to his legs, he managed
instruction and Capt GAMLIN took rock to keep the vehicle under control, so
climbing and abceiling. Maj JACKSON, avoiding injuring anycivilians. He drove on,
assisted by 2Lt HAYWOOD-SMITH, kindly bringing the vehicle to a halt at the side of
volunteered to take trips around Bushmills the road, despite being in severe pain. All
Distillery, LCpls BENHAM and BAILEY(35) the brick showed great presence of mind
supervised fishing at Magilligan and throughout the incident and deserve the
Portrush, although they must have had highest praise for their actions.
divine support to make 2 fishing rods
stretch between 14 men! LCpls EDE and All three Platoons in the Company are
ANDERSON showed theirskills at canoeing about to fvofl, in turn. for Platoon adventure
(contrary to the current rumour, LCpl training camps, under a permanent Com-
Andersonwasusingacanoe,notoneofhis pany adventure training staff, covering
boots), while Ptes SCOTT and NODDINGS such diverse activities as canoeing,
wereapparentlybeingtrialledforanunder- wind-suiting and oft-shore fishing, to rock-
water stunt team. climbing and horse riding. After this ‘8'
Company will look forward to another tour
in the City when. much to his relief, Mai
JACKSON once again will have a whole
Company under his command and need
notteelquite so guiltywhen he gets his pay
statements.

IAtter three weeks in the City, Pte Hunt LCpl Lyden recces route for 8‘ Coy Sate The CDC presents the LS and GC medal A career—conscious SSgt Jones blows
develops an alarming fixation for Pte Driving Competition. to the Drum Major. the Paymaster~ln~Chlef a kiss.

Skinnerl

4 QUEENS NEWSLETTER

Regular Army
Skill at Arms
Meeting, 1983

2 QUEENS RESULTS

TEAM MATC H ES

Major Unit Champlonshlp
(66 Teams Competing)

(1982 Results (59 Teams) In Brackets)

Team Rifle Match ...... 39th Place (50th)
Team SMG Match ...... 10th Place (16th)
Team SMG

(Para Ftegt) Match. . . 27th Place (6th)
LMG Match ....... . 23rd Place (37th)
Section Match .. ...33rd Place (39th)
Team Snap-Shooting

Match .............. 26th Place (32nd)
Overall Place ................. 28th (38th)

Our own LCpl TrevorArthey and LCpl M. Myles RGJ. displaying Pte kent and Pte McPherson slug It out In the Mlddle- INFANTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS
a large degree of mutual respect. weight final. (43 teams Competlng)

INTER-COMPANY NOVICES BOXING Team Rifle ............. 35th Place (39th)

Team Sniper . . 13th Place (16th)

Night Shooting, .14th Place (35th)

CHAMPIONSHIPS Overall Place .... ......... atst (35th)

On 18th-21st April the lnter~Company LEON NELSON ('C' Coy) and Pte JOHN showed tremendous spirit and guts. He put OTHER TEAM MATCHES
Novices Boxing Championships took place HIPKISS (‘A' Coy) deserves special up a very creditable performance and had
in an atmosphere that could only be mention. This was one of the hardest- good reason to feel proud of himself, Team Sniper Rifle ............... tst (5th)
described as electric!! fought bouts of the competition and one Pistol Team .................... 14th
that excited the spectators almost to lever The second one is the Featheniveight
Each Company was recurred to produce pitch. Sadly one or the other of the boxers bout between Pte STEPHEN BRIDGER BEST INDIVIDUAL RESULTS
a boxing squad con5isting of 9 boxers, had to lose and on this occasion it was Pte (HO Coy) and Pte COLIN DAVEY (‘C' Coy).
encompassing all the weight classes from Hipkiss, As a consolation he was awarded As a result of the draw Steven Bridger had Rifle: CSgt White The Army Hundred
Bantam to Heavyweight, the Bantam and the best loser's prize and presented with it gotallthe waytothefinals without actually SMG: Cpl Kirkaldie
Featherweights causing the most difficulty. by the Commanding Officer at the prize boxinnghis wassoonto become veryclear
Only 'C' Company and ‘A‘ Company giving on the finals night. when the bell went at the start of the first Pte Griffin ........... The SMG 75
managed to produce a lull boxing squad. round. Hopelessly outclassed, but un- Pte Marchant
Wednesday saw a day of rest for all the daunted. Steven Bridger boxed on, Pistol: Pte Griffin ....... 2nd in the Army
Oncethe boxing teams had been selected boxers who had qualified for the finals. A receiving some very hard punches from his Sniper: Pte Marchant . . . 2nd inthe Bisley
the Company boxing representatives soon chance to patch up cut eyes. bathe split worthy opponent.Asthe boutprogressedit
launched themselves into training and lips and ponder on what would happen in soon became clear to all the spectators Cup
preparing their teams for the champion- the bouts to come. A chance to weigh up as to what the result would be. and sure CSgt McAndrews ..... 3rd in the
ships, Given the restrictions imposed the opposition and plan their strategy with enough a won was declared for Davey. A
through operational and leave commit- their seconds and team managers. well-fought bout by both boxers and a Bisley Cup
ments, they all worked hard to produce special well done to Bridger.
boxing squads that were a credit to their Thursday 21st April saw the day of the One of the benefits of a posting to
respective Companies. Special mention finals. which started at 19.30 hours. There Towards the end of the evening it Northern Ireland. for the happy band of
must be made of Lt STRUT‘I’ (‘C' Coy) and were not as many spectators as was hoped became clearthatthe only realcontenders fanatics, who spend their spare time
Sgt FRIDAY (’A‘ Coy)whose contribution to because of an unexpected operational for the Inter-Company Novices Boxing hitting a small white object around the
training and managing their respective commitment. but still, all who could attend Championship Shield were ‘A‘ Company countryside with a lump of metal, are some
squads was outstanding. were there. The Officers, Warrant Officers and 'C' Company. 'A' Company finally of the best golf courses in Europe, and
and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers, clinched it With a fine win by Pte ADRIAN especially the notorious links courses
In no time at all Monday 18th April was resplendent in their Mess Dress, broughta BOVELLE over Pte MARK GABLE (‘C' Coy) which the American professionals love to
upDn us and at 0730 hours the weigh»in sense of occasron home to all the boxers. in the Light Heavyweight bout. play on.
commenced. This was the critical time, All the spectators were looking forward to a
when all the dieting or excessive eating to good night's boxing. With all the bouts completed the Com- The Battalion is lucky in having a
make the weights was put to the testl All manding Officer stepped into the ring to membership agreement with Castlerock
boxing representatives had anxious At 1930 hours the Commanding Officer present the Inter-Company Novices Boxing Golf Club which costs individuals 210 a
moments as their boxers stepped on to the arrived and boxing commenced. The first Championship Shield and prizes to all month. This for full membership and entry
scales, but with only one exception all the bout was an exhibition bout between LCpl who took part in the finals. 'A' Com- to all club competitions. The 19th hole is a
boxers made the weights, More anxious T H ARTHEY (‘B' Coy)—LCpl Arthey has pany were the worthy winners of the Shield. very pleasant bar, clubhouse and friendly
moments passed as the bout order for the held the following titles: Army Middle- beating 'C' Company into second place. members. Most of the regular players
prelims.duetotake placethatafternoon at weight Champion, Army Open Middle- Well done ‘A' Company. manage to play one sports afternoon a
1400 hours. was announced, weight Champion. Army Light Heavyweight week and again on Saturday or Sunday,
Champion, Combined Services Light The competition was an outstanding This is beginning to raise the standard
At 1330 hours the Gymnasium began to Heavyweight Champion and is currently success. This was due to the enthusiasm as we get used to the courses, and scores
fill With spectators. coming to cheer their holder of the Cameron Trophy for the Best of all the boxers who took part and to the are coming down correspondingly.
teams on, willing their boxers to win. This Boxer of the Combined Services—and efforts of the Company boxing represen-
wtthout doubt contributed enormously to LCpI H MYLES of the lst Battalion The tatives. No boxing competition could be Early on in the tour the ROMSs. Colour
what amounted to a good afternoon's Royal Greeniackets—LCpl Myles has held run without officials. So a special thanks to Sergeants WHITE and DUFFIELD. and Sgt
boxing The standard of boxing was far the following titles: Heavyweight Cham- all who officiated in whatever role, and to CULLINANE, entered the Northern Ireland
higher than one would expect from novice pion Malaysian Games, Army Heavy- SSgt KENNY FINCH, APTC for hisexpertise. Army Golf Society‘s Spring Meeting at the
boxers in the preliminary stages of a weight Champion and Combined Services Malone golf course. That well known
championship. All boxers produced gutsy Heavyweight Champion, It was apparent A. _ -_.. “bandit," Sgt “Chuck" CULLINANE, won
and spirited bouts much to the enjoyment from the moment the bell went at the start the high handicap competition (16-24)
of all spectators. of the first round that we were about to see Bloodies but unbowed, Pte Bone spots cup. and for his efforts had his handicap
a first-rate bout. Both boxers put on a reduced. A party also were invited to enter
The wtnners congratulated themselves superb demonstration of skills and hard- the Brigade Meeting and had a pleasant
on qualifying for the semi-finals. the punching producing what was a very fitting day's golf at Newtownstewart. A party from
losers nursed their hurt pride, but all start to the night‘s boxing. 1 QUEENS also played.
tended their injuries. The afternoon's
boxing completed, we all looked forward Space does notallowforevery boutto be A rather exhausting and extremely wet
to the semi-finals, to be held the following described in detail and there are probably 14th June was spent at Lisburn Golf Club
afternoon, Tuesday 19th 'April. It the one or two boxers who would prefer it this playing 233 Signal Squadron in the first
standard of boxing in the prelims was any- way. Suffice it to say all boxers are to be round of the Inter-Unit Knock-Out Cup.
thing to go by, a good afternoon's sport congratulated on hard-fought contests. A team consisting of the M0, MTO, Sgt
could be looked forward to. CULLINANE and Pte HARDING, each
However, two bouts do warrant special played 18 holes against their opponent,
We were not to be disappointed. It mention. Firstly the Welterweight contest retired to the bar, and counted up the
turned out to be a very good semi-final. between Pte PATRICK MOLLOY (‘B‘ Coy) scores. Tothe teams‘ horror, the total holes
Once again, all the boxers rose to the and Pte DALDAR SINGH (‘C' Coy) deserves won and lost were even. The rules were
occasion and gave their all. Every man was mention by virtue of the fact that Daldar quite clear—every player had to play the
battling for a place in the final, their sole Singh, who had been eliminated during the first hole again. After three hours of golf in
aim to score maximum points for their preliminaries, volunteered to box on the pouring rain and high winds the body did
Company. finals night knowing that he could not not relish more of the same. Unfortunately
score towards the Company total. This after each competitor had replayed the
All the bouts were well lought, but the first hole the team had lost. A close-run
Light Welterweight bout between Pte match. Club competitions are run every
week-end at Castlerock and players enter
and opening. these when available,

Q. w-m.‘ .a — - Our numbers have remained fairly static
since Colchester. with postings in and out.
The CO presents Pte Molloy of ‘B’ Coy Pte Bone considerately stlfles Pte Pte Davey (*c' Coy) attempting to blow It is good to have fresh talent in the shape
with his Welterweight wlnners medal. of Ptes HARDING and WOODJ ETTS playing
Nelson‘s sneeze. Pte Bridges (H0 Coy) Into submlaalon. regularly and threatening the “established"
players in competitions Golf is not expensive.
A half set of clubs can be bought for
approximately £40, and apart from the
monthlymembershipfeethereisnofurther
cost. Lessons are available, andwlth a little
practice, progress can be made reasonably
quickly. Forfurther information contact the
MTO or MO.

2 Queens ‘A’ D 8 D ‘A’ team by the narrowest of margins QUEENS NEWSLETTER 5
in the first round of the main competition.
Winners of Plate were making their presence felt in the Albuhera Families’ Day
Plate. (1 D 8. D ‘A' went on to become the
in NI 7-a-Side runners-up). A succession of comfortable
victories resulted in them meeting 233 Sig
The Battalion rugby squad rounded off Sqn ‘A’ team in the final. In quite appalling
the season by entering two teams in the conditions of rain and wind the ‘A' team
Northern Ireland ARU seven-a-side com- played some sparkling rugby and ran out
petition. This was held at HQNI Lisburn on winners 24-6.
a typically wet and blowy Saturday in
April. the team consisted of Capt PETER
NEWMAN, Lt MIKE NEWMAN, Lt DUNCAN
Despite scoring some good tries, with STRUTT, SSgt KENNY FINCH, Cpl BOB
Pte NELSON in particularly sparkling form, ANTHONY, Cpl LENNY SCULLY. Pte
the '3‘ team were narrowly beaten by 33 DUSTY MILLER and Pte DAVE BOYD.
Indep Fd Sqn RE in the first round of the Special mention shomd be made of Messrs
main competition. They then suffered a MILLER and BOYD who have only recently
similar fate in the first round of the Plate. taken up rugby, particularly MILLER, who
ended up as our top try scorer.
The ‘A‘ team meanwhile, having lost to 1

) vo -\

Cpl Smltherman explains to the ‘D Coy tug-of-war team
wrong.

Albuhera Day, 18th May, this yearfell on ‘ " "I “w El
a Monday and, in order to allow school
children and working wives to take part. Having swept the board at the fun-day
a families‘ day was arranged on the the Eglinton ladies clown around.
following Saturday—and what a day it was'
BIG GAME
The Clooney playing fields were trans-
HUNTERS formed in a matter of hours and the
majority of the Battalion and our families
An often-repeated scene in the early were able to enjoy a variety of activities,
hours each week-end, must be a source of There was 6-a-Side cricket, 5»a»SIde foot-
amusement for any onlookers in the vicinity ball, tug-of-war, rounders, pony rides, and
of the Guardroom. A fearsome band of disco dancing, There were endless stalls,
desperados slowly assemble, staggering displays and even a dog show. Everyone
under the weight of giant packs and hold- enjoyed theire day and it almostdidn't rain'
alls. A Big Game Safari in Northern
Ireland? Unlikely, you may say. but those Nearly every event seemed to have a
who become more inquisitive will vouch prize but one prize which was not awarded
that it's all perfectly true. The Bn was one deserved by the Wives. who stole
Fishing Club is back with a vengeance! the show. They played rounders, produced
A truly dedicated organisation whose tug-of-warteamsandtheyranamarvellous
members pour more pounds into the cake stall. But the icmg on their effort was
Province's coarse fishing industry than the their fancy dress and the spirit with which
quantity of fish they catch. but. as guilty as they entered into the day So, basically
the rest of them, who am I to mock? we'd like to say: "Thanks girls, you were
grand!"
On arrival at our highly secret and pro-
ductive venues. all becomes deadly needed of course! Rods are made up and You put your right foot out and you
serious. The hunt is on and we know that methods decided upon. shake itall about.
somewhere in the shallows lurk the game.
Umbrellas, float and tackle boxes, keep A barely distinguishable splash as
and landing nets, rod rests, bait. ground- another expertly~cast waggler glides effort-
bait, flasks and lunch boxes, are all laid out lessly into exactly the right spot. The
in a well-practised sequence. which leaves furrowed brow of supreme concentration
everything easily at hand . . . until it's and an hypnotic trance until that first
tremble is spotted. A perectly-timed
strike and . . . another empty hook is
reeled in. Undaunted, the procedure starts
again, after all, why worry about one
missed fish when some poor unfortunate
two pegs down is struggling to get his end
tackle out of the woods on the far bank?
Time flashes by as tackle and tactics are
changed. patience is stretched and
believe it or not, fish are caught!

From novice to well-seasoned angler,
the whole club is gaining in experience,
and all are more than welcome. We manage
occasionalclub competitions and eventhe
odd match against other units. Prizes
abound, and in case 1 QUEENS are reading
—watch out, we'll have you next time!

Finally. a word of praise '0’ {he
long-suffering wives of the married
members, who must have the patience of
an an gl er.

TIGHT LINES TO YOU ALL!

The Albuhera dog‘show champion, and 6 UDR pipers provide a touch of the
friend. Irish.

ire" " v . - . .> s“- I. BEAUTY

LCpI Schooling contemplating Catch 22 whilst awaiting Catch Number 1 . QUEENS!

Wow! Delectable Doris certainly has a
problem covering up her delightful assets!
She is acert to be favourite with all the lads,
especially the MT Platoon, who all agree
that two in the hands are worth more than
one off the wristll

Doris is especially proud of her facial
adornments, which set her apart from the
run-of-the-mill busty bombshells.

Dorisspends a lot of nerfree time keeping
fit, greasing nipples and smoking her pipe.
She has recently taken up horse riding,
which should put her out in front in the
Beauty Queen Stakes—and that's straight
from the horse’s mouthll

Dorls’ assets proving to be quite a
handfull

6 QUEENS NEWSLETTER

HOW I SURVIVED BLACK

PAPILLOMA

C/S 39 (Major CANN). fresh from a Cricket Comd telephoned Fort George from the By AGIN E PIGG, ZIC ‘C‘ COV MPH Thrift Shopl You also meet the various
Umpire's Course. returned to the City to Ration Stores at Ebrington asking what he people who will be operating on you. Of
settlelurtherdisputes.0n arrivalanumber was supposed to be doing? On being told. In November of 1980 I attended a these obviously the surgeon is vaguely
of changes were noted which aroused he stated he had been instructed to go to medical to be declared "fit for course" (a important. Alter formal introductions are
suspicion. but at least the Ops Room at the Ration Stores to pick up CSgt PARKER Military law course), During the examination completed, he examines your body with
Fort George is now back to normal, having who had collected the bread. (Send three the doctor discovered that I had Black critical eye, subdued asides to his con-
been redesigned by Sheba. Capt GAMLIN'S and four pence, we‘re going to a dance?) Papilloma and would have to have an siderable retinue, and with a green felt-tip
Old English Sheepdog Excision Biopsy. I was of course shocked pen, rings those portionsof your bodyto be
After “Harry‘s Game," JONNY McEVOY to be declared unfit for my Military Law surgically removed. However. one need
Due to the considerable foliage growing has been P-checked too many times. and not worry until he wrings your neck!!
in Fort George. 11 Pl were issued with his car has caused Vengeful to have a course.
jungle hats and malaria tablets until. with nervous breakdown. Now. an embargo on I was quickly rushed to hospital and on 4 I might add that at this stage there was a
drawn machetes. they cut down this all sightings has been imposed certain confusion as the 2 QUEENS
secondary jungle. A further growth is July 1983 was admitted to the Musgrave medical centre had in fact thought it was
antiCipated by the time of their next City It was heard that Bravo Company were to Park Hospital (MPH) Military Wing, I will 2Lt Haywood-Smith who was admitted.
tour in September unless Alpha Company assist Election Officials by moving them recap briefly on the procedures involved in Fearing that l was about to be treated for
return from the swamps first. around the City in a number of Pigs. This going sick, for the benefit of those who “hoof-rot" l rapidly informed them of their
information was passed to Civ Pop. who have not yet attended a military sick mistake.
The front gate area at Fort George. which rapidly cleared the streets. fearing for the parade. To a certain extent it is similar to a
caused concern to Bravo Company, had a mortality rate. raffle with a number of unknowns. For The most important man in all of this is in
safety chain re-established by Alpha example. is the doctor playing golf that fact “Wally." Wally is a very jovial fellow
Company. This is popularly believed to RUC shot and killed a gearbox at RUC morning? Have the Orderly Room lost your (probably a Corporal in the RAMC).
have been designed to restrain Alpha Shantallow and later shot and wounded an medical documents? Have you got the Sporting his white and green operating
Company vehicles from leaving, as engine block at RUC Strand. This engine right things with you to enable you to go gown. pebble glasses. white clogs and
opposed to other vehicles entering. RUC later ran riot. before being humanely sick (at present just short of CEFO minus purple socks he pushes you to the operating
Hotspurs have rammed and broken this destroyed by fire in the Shantallow that the entrenching tool)? If you are fortunate theatre (This is probably the most
chain twice in ten days. and Sappers have night. and everything works out in your favour. dangerous point in the whole operation!)
installed a more permanent obstacle. then you will be allowed to see the doctor.
Some members of Charlie Company More serious(normallyterminal)cases see To cut a long story short. I survived my
At 5 am, one morning, a DMSU patrol returned to school for the day of the Sgt Sullivan BEM. Black Papilloma and am now back with the
had cause to ouestion soldiers in the area elections. Although there were no French Battalion. Initially on light duties (posted to
of the Free Derry Wall. 39 and 31L (Lt lessons, Sgt MORROW learnt a variation of The next stage is to see the “specialist." D (HW) Company) I am now At fit. Unfor-
NEWMAN) were observed standing there a nursery game called "Ring a Ring of The “specialist" is a much-revered man in tunately the Part 2 Order Clerk fined me
With a wooden toilet seat whilst 39‘s driver Houses." the medical world, normally a doctor who 2150 instead of admitting me to hospital,
endeavoured to keep his shaking hand still has drunkso muchthathis brain capacityis but that is part of the gamble. At least I can
in order to take a photograph. After After 390 found his hoard of petrol limited to one subject. You go to see the now lead a normal life (if you call life in 2
explanations were given by the Coy Clerk, bombs. everybody wanted a trip out. This specialist by travelling via the edge of the QUEENS normal?)!
the DMSU were seen drivrng away was not tempered by Ptes “Call Me Paint" world. At present the travelling time is
muttering: "Who said the Irish were mad?" Carter and Berrick, who have found approximately 3 hours (in each direction). Editor‘s Note: This is a true story re-
another meaning to exterior decorating The exacting part of this trip is to see if produced from Readers Digest. For the
Felix's popularity remains high. Last whilst on Shantallow Patrols. Seagull has either (a) the driver will break down in non-medical man a Papilloma is a mole.
tour's incident. With his greater tactics also found a new toy to play with—a pump- Toomebridge. or (b) the escort has an ND Excision Biopsy is to cut it off!
lecture over a permanent send radio. is action organ in the local Fort George and shoots you. Upon arrival you will be
forgotten. This time his crew killed a Church. seen by the specialist for about 30 seconds. . ;, '7:
Pelican Crossing with a Pig. His driver This normally occurs only on your second
asked for compensation, but this was During a so-called VCP action. one driver trip as usually the medical room have Major Carin presents the Bog Seat to Lt
refused by the RSPCA. who complained of being stopped four forgotten to give you your documents. It Newman.
times, was promptly arrested for his could well be that they give you someone
Passage of information is as good as subversive dicking habits. else’s documents (you can play an inter- 9 Pl Shine in the
ever. 33L (Lt SCOTT) was instructed to esting game athomeimagining whatsome
send the ORF to Ebrington to collect CSgt Asa post script Pte HORTON hasapplied people's medialdocumentsmustlooklike), Toilet Seat
PIPER from the stores. who had collected for the job of 00's dog handler. When the I was fortunate. and had the correct medical
some Signals from the Ops Room. QRF Wagtails are fully employed, Rollo is to be documents (I knew he had mine from the Competition!
used as an additional back-up. His speciality distasteful look he gave me whilst reading
is finding explosive sausages. them). The “specialist" confirmed my earlier The merry month of May sawthewhole of
fear that I had Black Papilloma and within ‘C’ Coy. from the Gladiators to Coy HQ.
six months he had me admitted to MPH. locked in battle to see who could win the
Company Toilet Seat. The competition in»
The first few hours at hospital are re- volved nine different sports and was last
assuring. as you spend time filling in N of K competedforinGibraltar.when 11 PI were
formsand give awaybitsof yourbodytothe victorious. This time, however. it was a
different story.
M1 carbine found by Cpl Grassland-Page’s search team on 10th June. In the ‘C’ Company
Shantallow. The swimming competition was the first
Caption event and 10 Pl emerged as easy winners.
‘C’ BY THE SEA 9 Pl were second and 11 Pl. with the aid of
Competition London Counties swimming phenomenon.
Pte Fuller. submerged into last place. This
Which of the following captions do you was in fact the last occasions that anybody
think most fits the photograph? could defeat mighty 9. Volleyball was next
and thanks to a brave performance by Coy
(a) “Come out Sgt Morrow, I promise HQ, the favourites. 11 Pl were pipped into
lwon‘t do It againl" second place by 9 PI. The result was
repeated in the orienteering, hockey and
(b) Lt Scott receives a career inter- BFT.whilst 10P| edged 11 Pl intolast place
view. in the cricket. The basketball is still finely
poised between 9 and 11 Pls and the
(c) Lt Scott looking for a safe place footballand shooting are as yetundecided.
to park his car. Due to shining 9‘s success in the earlier
rounds. however. they have already
(d) 33L P-checking rabbits. secured the toilet seat, which was pre-
The second part of the competition is to sented to OC 9 Pl by Maj Cann in front of
complete this sentence in not more than the Free Derry Wall.
10 words:
The Inter-Section competition which is
To be a Platoon Commander in ‘0’ being run concurrently. sees 31Aand Coy
HQ battling it out for the runner-up spot
Company you must be .................. with SIC emerging as overall winners.

0 FIRST PRIZE: 25 Bill Voucher tii he spent So we leave 9 Pl ”flushed" with success
in "IE Pill. and look fonivard to August when battle is
joined once again.
0 SECOND PlilZE: Ell] Gift Voucher Iii lie
During May the “young blades" of 9 PI, spent in the Pill.
the “lazy saints" of 10 and the "video
nasties" of 11 took the coastal road to PLEASE NOTE: Your Voucher may be spent
Magilligan. Each PI Comd had planned a on any of the following items:
three-day adventurous training package
(OC 9 claimsthat he had planned itand the (a) Polo-Neck Pullovers
others had copied). In true adventurous (b) UN T-Shirts
training style the day would begin with a (0) Blue Lanyards
run and a dip in the sea. The PI Comds (d) Matches
(conspicuousintheirwetsuits)wouldshow (e) More Polo-Neck Pullovers
their leadership qualities and with a quick
shout of "Diehard/Steady the Buffs/Only activities such as "Drown the Section
with My Life" would enter the sea. The PI Commander" competition, Cpl Crossland-
Sgts would be at the back offering a more Page narrowly missing out on winning a
down to earth style of leadership. The prize, The other event was “abandoning
majority of the activities were based on the canoes to see how far they would float
water. 9 Pl pioneered a new sport called on their own." Cost prohibited this from
"Boating in the Range Danger Area," becoming a major event.
watched by an unappreciative audience
which included the Battalion shooting 10 Pl led by their very own Spiderman
team. (fresh from the north face of En HQ). prac-
tised being scared ""Iess halfway up a
11 Pl tried a number of original aquatic rock face.

Thefinalevent was the barbeque held on
the beach. where, over a raging fire and
after a few beers, there were many tales to
be told. The water theme continues here
for the Padre was a frequent visitor, and
some say he walks on it.

The opportunity to escape from
Ebrington was welcomed by all and hope-

fully we will be able to repeat this on a
larger scale next year.

QUEENS NEWSLETTER 7

ID!

(HW) Company

Since the last edition the Company has wheels, bits of 84mm and a length of pip- The Drums Platoon fall In for morning sick parade.
gone through the usual cycle, with leave as ing. This they claimed was an anti-tank
the highpoint for those who can remember weapon called CONBAT. The game was UNICORN OR COY SECOND IN
it through the haze of alcohol. given away by the lack of a guidance elecr COMMAND
tronics pack and mountings for the am-
The last few weeks have seen a number munition tube, However, we all played A question constantly on the minds of tions now arise is there something deeper
of comings and goings. We have said along, and still continue to clean them the members of this Company, and one to all this? Is the MT to be modified7 Quesr
goodbye to W02 WHITALL who left us to regularly. long overdue an answer, is, just what is the tions to which I have no answer, and which
join B Company and CSgt JONES who has function of D (HW) Company Second in detract from my main theme
left the Battalion to join 6/7 QUEENS as a Having no real anti-tank weapons has Command?
mortar instructor, Capt CROSS has seen meant that training has concentrated more it was clear by the dawning of May Day
the light and transferred from A Company on the theoretical than the practical. It's While over the past four months our that maybe our Second in Command had
to become OC Milan P1 and W02 COR- not as much fun as working with the tasks have been many and varied, the per» been the subject of a miracle Somehow,
NICK, is now OC Tubes. Lt DIXON has system itself, and we all hope that MILAN son in question has often been found to be he had found a purpose in life. Present still
had his school holidays broken by being will arrive in the province shortly, absent if not in body, then in mind. To was the frantic rushing to the car at close
recalled to the Battalion and has joined us clarify the Situation once and for all, I shall of play, but also present was the occar
for the current city tour. In April we went to Magillian for 3 days undertake to analyse, month by month the sional movement to the tennis court,
shooting camp, which included firing the sum total of activity (or inactivity) shown where he could be seen attempting to play,
The Company spent three days adven- 84mm and throwing grenades. One of the (or concealed) by this somewhat mythical aided humanely by the CSM Such was the
ture training at Magilligan in arctic condi- highspots was a walk, in teams, to a near individual. increase in his activny that his 0C directed
tions where a number of people tried their by lake for a picnic. W02 WHITALL stated that he be found his very own desk This
hand at surf canoeing and managed to He originally moved to the proyince on was done, and the desk conveniently
paddle their canoes upside down. The less The Russian hand-grenade found by ‘D’ the advance party in January, An unusual located This activity, hitherto alien to him,
hardy saw the Giants Causeway from the Coy on 27th July. occurence one might suppose, as Coy 2|Cs had been a source of worry to members of
saloon bar, getting thoroughly soaked from normally remain with the main body to the coy, but now it was accepted and the
the inside, that any team arriving after 1130 hrs. would amuse their CSMs. This indiwdual threw fear of serious injury diminished Accorr
not get fed. Guess who turned up at 1320 himself unsparingly into deVIsing a call out dingly the Medical Centre was stood down
Mortar Platoon hrs?? The camp finished with a company system which proved to be totally unv and the intravenous drip removed from the
After leave the platoon held a two week party during which CSgt “Desert Head" workable, (unless the entire Royal Corps of Company Office Our Company Second in
GAUNTLETT experienced his first "all Transport were available for deployment) Command was alive‘
internal Cadre at Kilnappy to try and recap- on.” unpractical, and unbelievable. However
ture all the old skills that will be required of allowances were made on the assumption lr—r —i w
us in the future. The last few days of the After the training weeks we became that his impressionable mind had tem-
Cadre were spent at Magilligan where GobnascaIe/Duties company. 'Plug' HAR- porarily been influenced by Communist Capt Wright conveniently placed to
everyone managed to pass their training RIS’s wife continued to knit balaclavas Agents seeking to wreak havoc among Her
tests. Two members of the platoon have which he then proceeded to "find" with Majesty’s finest. inspect members of ‘D' Coy.
had nails inserted in their heads as part of a monotonous regularity. LCpl SHARPLES
last attempt to give up smoking. LCpl whilst rummaging in a dustbin for the bot- His inactivity in February can only be ate Well, what of the present At the time of
HARMAN is complaining of a slight tom half of one of his sweatshirts found a tributed to the exhaustion incurred by the writing, it's June and movement can still
headache and LCpl LUCKHURST says that TPU. employment of his usually comatose brain, be detected. He moves unaided and has
he can’t feel a thing (not that he could in on devising the call out system. Although been known to produce excmng Signs of
the firstpiace). Our successes in May meant that we science upholds the theory that electrical life such as a range detail This rates as a
were chosen to be the first company to put impulses were actually reaching his brain, he literary masterpiece akin to the Beario, and
Cpl GUYETT and LCpl HARMAN spent the new City Reinforcement Company into strenuously resisted all manual activities so causes as much amusement. Word has it
ten days at the UKLF mortar concentration practice. We have helped C Company with that no movement could be detected by that he is arranging (under the superviSion
telling everybody there how to do it, and all the operations that they were reluctant the naked eye until 1620 hours daily. He of the Company runner) a Company Party
have hopefully come back with more to do (eg late night lurks and lift ops in then occupied himself with deep breathing It is agreed Within the company that jelly,
knowledge than they left. "hot”areas likethe Shantallow). exercises, oxygenating his body in prepara» party hats and pass the parcel Will make a
tion for the seventy five metre spring to his pleasant change from alcohol, dancmg and
' . N v.‘ to All this activity has meant little time off, car. The minute hand of his watch heralded buffets. All who know him are aware that it
D Coy attempting to break the world although we have had a few spare days. an explosion of homeward movement. So could take only a small modem. to cause
“number of men in a rubber dinghy" Captain GAMLIN took us to Portrush and fast was this animated action that words the relapse that would plunge him into the
showed us how to abseil off bar stools and like, is it a bird?, is it a plane?, no it’s ------ l' inactivity expected from him in earlier days.
record. climb back up agian. LCpl STOCKWELL were heard along his route, uttered by
and Pte RIGHELATO recently escaped to astonised onlookers. In conc|u5ion it is clear that a man who
Anti Tank Platoon do a search course and LCpl VAUGHAN is can partially shrug off the inertia With
The months since the platoon returned at present on a map reading course. We March saw the Company move to the Ci~ which he was once afflicted must be a man
hope he will find his way back (and maybe ty, where the intrepid CSM uncomplainingr of character, (however hard to detect). So
from leave in April started on rather an give CSM B Company some lessons). ly undertook 28 hour Ops Stags. Unforr maybe that is the answer to my initial ques
uncertain note with Pte's BATEMAN, tunately the Company Second in Com» tion. Perhaps he is a figurehead, a symbol,
"Bun" TANNER (Honeybunch), "Fruit Finally on a more personal note, Pte IVlL mand took the opposite tack and im- moving with great economy, treading the
Bat” STAY and “Bushbaby” REEVES all has, we think, recently changed his mediately went into hibernation earning military path hoping that life Will continue
returning a day late, with some excuse religion, as he will shortly be going into himself the appointment title “Sleeping to smile upon him.
about "being on time but the plane being hospital to have a small personal part of his Beauty," soon to be acknowledged Batv
full." It could be that they were enjoying body removed, The Mortar Platoon arm-wrestling team
leave too much, or more likely they UKLF Mortar Concentration talion wide. His resurrection strangely coin- in training.
couldn't face another 4 months of LCpl cided with his R Er R, where his by now
”Ena" SHARPLES inspired guitar playing. The UKLF Mortar Concentration made a customary homeward bound burst was on-
welcome break from our arduous duties in ly interrupted by the hurried explanation
Anti Tank training started in the second Londonderry write Cpl Guyett and LCpl that he was "sleeping on behalf of the
half of April. The older DCs' played a Harman, and it was interesting to see the Coy." It was clear to all that he had taken
belated April fools joke on the Platoon by developments in the mortar world after the the Coy motto "We support" to heart,
introducing us to a strange looking wea- Falklands. Such was his belief that at the end of our
pon that they had built from two landrover city tour he showed surprise at our
Both regular and TA platoons were put tiredness.
Find of a pistol and assorted terrorist through their paces with a lot of emphasis
artetacte, made by woz Bernlqrand the on man-packing (Falklands factor). Our role April and leave! It must be stated at this
‘D' Coy search team at the Rossvllle as DS enabled us to give most other units stage in all fairness, that he threw himself
in UKLF a suitably hard time. One in- into the leave period with the vigour of a
Plate on 21 at July. teresting development is the creation of gymnast, and the stamina of a marathon
new appointment titles for the Pl Comd runner. This enthusiasm uncharacteristical»
and 2|C, Birdman and Birdman-minor, a ly endured into the equestrian course he at-
reflection of their ability to operate at tended, on which he sacrificed himself
30,000 ft. Will this lead to the design of a whilst the remainder of the Company were
flying command post? enjoying themselves on Magilligan ranges.
Word has it that were the course graded he
would undoubtedly have achieved an 'A'
grade for 'doing things to horses.’ It was
also reported that W02 Doris Older also at-
tended an equestrian course. The ques-

8 QUEENS NEWSLETTER

Families ’ FORUM

WIVES CLUB

The wives club continue to thrive and successful. cake stall which included a Cpl “Brian‘s Ball" Cook dlscusses llte’s ups and downs with the wlves‘ trampoline
the wives enjoy coming to Frazer Lodge in "guess-the-weight" cake competition. class.
Ebrington Barracks for the coffee mornings There were some very entertaining
each week. They can now combine it also rounders matches played by girls in superb Eglinton Wives pass by on a sunny afternoon you will see
with a visit to the Nearly New Shop, which fancy dress and would you believe, a tug us all sitting outside out houses having a
has been open (or over a month and is be- of-warll We may only be a small community here ”mothers meeting" whilst the children play
ing very efficiently run, selling a wide varie- at Eglinton (28 Queen’s families out of 76 nearby. On a really nice day its com-
ty of clothes. We are helped enormously by the will- houses), but once we got ourselves monplace to see two or three paddling
ingness of the Cooks who always provide organised things began to happen. pools "out the front” being shared by all.
The evening gatherings once a month delicious food for us and next month they
have included a bingo session, a most are going to show us how to make pastry We certainly made our presence felt on So far I don’t think anyone can say that
entertaining folk night and an Italian even- properly. Albuhera day when the wives team, the they are not enjoying our posting, as we
ing which consisted of delicious spaghetti Eglinton Clowns, took the place by storm. are quite a close knit community where
bolognaise, pizzas and lasagne for supper \ everyone knows everyone else. In our heart
and a disco providing good music. Some Mrs. Shakespeare demonstrates an We had more than enough members for of hearts we will probably be sorry to leave
wives from Brigade, RMP and the our team and romped home as winners of when our time is up!!
Cheshires also joined us for this evening. aptitude for badminton. the rounders and the tugrofewar the trophy
for which can be seen in the community Ballykelly Wives
There have been several shopping trips Ballykelly Childrens centre. I think everyone decided that we
too. Bellast is always a popular place and Saturday Morning wouldn't do it again next year as we were As a result of the Ballykelly Thursday
the Coleraine Shirt Factory did well out of presented with a box of chocs each for our coffee mornings, the wives have formed
our wives in March. There must have been Disco rounders success (we think they wanted to their own darts team as well as a knitting
some lucky husbands! This last month a fatten us up to slow us downlll). They circle, which encouraged Mrs. Johnston to
tour round the Old Bushmills Whisky This disco started way back in February don't know about our popmobility session knit like mad to present Master Peter
Distillery proved a great hit. in the Acorn Club and has proved to be a every Thursday evening to keep us all fit. Osbourne with his first matinee coat. 0n
greatsuccess. So watch out for us next year as the defen- the 19th February we held a jumble sale in
The Albuhera Families day was great fun ding champions. the Acorn Club in aid of the Childrens
for everyone. The wives club ran a very The extra events that were held during Saturday Morning Disco fund. There was a
the Easter break were: We have many regular weekly events in games night on the 23rd February against 1
sf 1. our community centre. There are two CHESHIRE which resulted in a very pleas-
BONNET AND DRAWING COMPETI- youth clubs, one for 5-7 year-olds and one ing win for the QUEEN’S wives.
Mrs. Mellotte presents Mrs. Packliaflm TION for the 8's and over. Both are running suc-
with farewell gifts from the wives’ club. cessfully with lots of outings and actiVities We have also had a few outings such as
TALENT COMPETITION already in the pipeline. a trip to Belfast on 2nd April and a trip to
Babies born since TREASURE TRAIL the Roe Valley Country Park on the 15th
SWOP SHOP The 8's and over youth club run by June. Last but not least we had a barbeque
the Battalion move Since then there has been a snooker Joyce Still and Linda Jordan have just en- and disco in the Acorn Club on the 13th
tournament and two "Disco Bus Runs,” joyed a weekend away in Roe Valley Park, June which was a great success.
to Northern Ireland the first to the Lion Park and Castlerock Limavady. Joyce, Linda and their
where lots of games were played. The husbands, Joe and Steve, are to be con ‘Don’t Call Him
Pte and Mrs. Richardson (3 son, Wesley) 6 highlight this time was the 37 seater bus gratulated for managing to cope with their Sir—It’s the
February, 1983. getting stuck on the beach, where children own large family of 2/ for the weekend, Padre!
and escorts all helped to get it out without (apparently all with good appetites as they
Cpl. and Mrs. Osborne (3 son, Peter) 27 much success. Lots of cheers went up ploughed through 14 loaves, over 100 Since the arrival of the new Chaplain,
February, 1983. when the bus finally came free. The second sausages, countless eggs and much more
bus run went to Portrush where a good besides, between Friday evening and Sun- certain discoveries have been made. In
LCpI and Mrs. Cuff (a son, Andrew) 3 Mar- time was had by all. day afternoon). A good time was had by
ch, 1983. all, and many parents enjoyed a peaceful uniform "he" wears a certain insignia—but
FOLK NIGHT 20th weekend without their offspring. We
Pte and Mrs. Warner (a daughter, Helen APRIL wonder, could a weekend camp be held he dislikes being called “Sir"—in fact he‘s
Marie) 9 March, 1983. every weekend"
After many weeks of planning and a hece almost been known to charge a soldier for
LCpl and Mrs. Dollings (a son, Trevor) 18 tic "dress rehearsal" in the afternoon, the The 5 to 7-year-olds meanwhile had
March, 1983. excitemer.: rose as the evening got under games in the gym, helped by Lynne chan, doing so (says the line will go to "Wireless
way. The show kicked off to a lively start Pam Young and Mary Devlin, an evening in
LCpI and Mrs. Reynolds (a son) 21 March, with music from Doug Clarkson and the the local park, a film show and a visit from for the Blind"?!).
1983. Small Group from the 2 OUEENS band. the local RUC to give a talk on road safety
Also appearing was some of our own wives and bike maintenance. We've also been And then there‘s the question of a
LCpl and Mrs. Geddes (a son, David An- club talent in the form of Mrs. Joan promised cycling proficiency lessons once
drew) 21 March, 1983. Crossland-Page and Mrs. Betty Stamp it can be arranged and a weekend away Church Service at Fort George. "Where are
singing a few of their favourite songs ac- over the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Pte and Mrs. Brown (a daughter, Tony companied by their guitars, One of the you going to have it Sir . . . er Padre?" A
Louise) 3 April, 1983. highlights of the evening appearing live on Tuesday night is Bingo Night when
stage for the first time was Mrs. Michele husbands and wives alike sit and wait anx- finger points tothe viewthroughthe window
Capt. and Mrs. Wright (a daughter, Cam- Dixon as the stripper. iously for that last number.
milla) March, 1983. in the Ops Room—there, lo and behold, is
The second half of the show consisted of Wednesday night is mens darts night.
Cpl. and Mrs. Cooley (a daughter, Leigh songs and funny sketches. Also it featured Out of three matches played, they have the sign of the cross! A Church in Fort
Ann) 19 April, 1983. George Carnell of the Army Air Corps sing- won two and lost one. Of course they are
ing and playing his guitar. To round off the open to offers of matches and any in George? Well, a double Portakabin tucked
LCpI and Mrs. Bailey (a daughter, Lorna evening Doug and the Boys played us out terested parties should contact the team
Jay) 21 April, 1983. with some great disco music. Behind the captain care of the community centre. away behindthe Ops Room.(lsthiswhythe
scenes Elaine Clarkson and Keith Meanwhile they are practising hard holding
Pte and Mrs. Richards (3 daughter, Carly Crossland-Page did a fantastic job with the dart knockout competitions in the club Almighty is so often called upon, in that
Jayne)26 April, 1983. props. every week.
hallowed place—the domain of the “Ops"
LCpl and Mrs. Coleman (a son) 6 May, Thursday night is ladies night when
1983. you’ll hear lots of strange noises coming and a somnolent RUC7).
from the community centre between 7 and
Pte and Mrs. Horton (a daughter) 11 May, 8 pm. whilst we put our bodies through So ‘A‘ Coy led the way, and on 15th May
1983, their paces with the popmobility records.
After that we all relax and have a quiet at 1800 hours, it was “standing room only"
Cpl and Mrs. Croucher (a daughter) 23 game of pool, darts, sit and have a chat or
May, 1983. like last week, enjoy demonstrations by for a short Company service. The singing
make-up experts.
LCpI and Mrs. Parsons (a son, Conan may not have been up to St. Paul's
David) 30 May, 1983. On Friday nights the club is monopolised Cathedral standards. but it was lusty . . .
by the children again, as between 6 and 8
Pte and Mrs. Delaney (a son) 2 June, 1983. pm. it is disco night. This is thoroughly en- 'C' Coy followed on the 19th June—again
Pte and Mrs. Petherbridge (a son, Kevin) joyed by all ages from toddlers to teens.
after much finger-pointing through the
June 1983. Saturday night both the club and the Ops Room window (thought—we really
Pte and Mrs. Chittock (a son, Garry) 12 workers get a break as the doors remain
looked all day unless there is something must get a sign painted "Christ Church,
June, 1983. special going on. Fort George this way"). Again, “standing
LCpl and Mrs. Showcum (a daughter, Em-
The two functions we have had, a disco, room only,“ the same sepulchral (7) voices,
malSJune,19&i. and then a cheese and wine party, were
Pte and Mrs. Burden (a son, Russell) 12 both great successes and we are planning but this time with the addition of a short
to organise something once a month.
June, 1983. celebration of Holy Communion. .
Cpl and Mrs. Boddie (a son, Kevin) 16 So you see, we might live in a quiet little
village, but the few of us that are here And so the pattern of worship in
June, 1983. certainly know how to enjoy ourselves.
Sgt and Mrs. Tanner (a daughter, Joanne) Most of us have children and if you should the “City" has been established.
Back at the blunt end. we have started a
25 May, 1983.
Sgt and Mrs. Morrow (a daughter, Kelley) similar pattern 01 sponsored Services at

21 June, 1983. the Garrison Church, and several babies

have been baptised.

For those who don't know, the times of

Church Services, to which everyone is
welcome, are as follows:

0 Fort George (3rd Sunday of tour) 1800
hours.

0 Ebrlngton Barracks: 0900 Holy
Communion; 1100 Morning Service
(tst8i3rd HolyCommunlon,tollowed
by coffee In Church Centre); 1200
Holy Mass—RC.

The Padre may be contacted on Mll Ext
340 (contldentlal “Ansephone” avail-

able); Londonderry Clvll 41490.