Words from the Station
1st ( United Kingdom ) Signal Brigade Who we are and what we do
1st ( United Kingdom ) Signal Brigade is based in Gloucester and commands , prepares and generates forces which are held at high states of readiness , to support current and future operations all over the world . Professional , motivated and innovative brigade units deliver robust and resilient Command Support ( capabilities which assist commanders in the exercise of command ), Communications Information Systems and Real Life Support ( accommodation , power , medical support , feeding ) to formations including :
• The NATO Allied Rapid Reaction Corps ( ARRC )
• The Joint Rapid Reaction Force
• The Vanguard Aviation Force
• The Air Assault Task Force
• The Vanguard Field Hospital
• The Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( FCO )
Exercise JAVELIN CASSINO 7-11 May 18
fiercer ; including the chance to tour the rebuilt monastery and to reflect on the legal and moral implications of such actions . We also visited German , Polish and British cemeteries and were able to pay respect to those who had paid the ultimate sacrifice on all sides . At the end of the week , the schedule allowed time for individuals to explore Rome , before heading back home ; some choosing to explore the Colosseum and others going to the Trevi fountain , the Vatican City or the Spanish Steps .
Ex JAVELIN CASSINO was HQ 1st ( UK ) Signal Brigade ’ s Battlefield Study for 2018 taking place in Cassino ; an idyllic Italian town 130km south of Rome . This particular study focussed on the Allied campaign in Italy during WWII , particularly the gruelling battles at Cassino and Anzio . The Battlefield Study provided the opportunity to research historic battles that took place around the area , and to educate those in attendance on the dynamics of the conflict . This was achieved through walking the ground and studying personal accounts of those present during the battle .
The study was attended by members of the Brigade Headquarters and personnel from 252 Signal Squadron . The trip enabled all participants to develop their understanding of the campaign through a number of key events at various locations around Cassino . They were introduced to the challenges and limitations that were faced both the Allied and the Axis forces ; and provided the opportunity to contemplate the activities within the modern military environment .
As part of the tour , the group also had the opportunity to visit Monte Cassino , the Benedictine Abbey , which was controversially destroyed by Allied bombs as the battles of Cassino grew
Overall , the study of the battles of Cassino provided a fascinating insight into one of the lesser known campaigns of WWII . Supplemented by the expert knowledge of the battlefield tour guide , the Study was not only powerful on an emotional level but also proved to be highly educational tool , both historically and for future leadership challenges .
Capt Ben Swatridge
22 theIMJIN SUMMER 2018