40 (NORTH IRISH HORSE) SIGNAL SQUADRON QUARTERLY UPDATE – MARCH 2019

The training for 40 (North Irish Horse) Signal Squadron over the first quarter of 2019 has been varied and inspiring, covering a range of activities. It has most definitely proved to be retention positive. 

In January, Exercise Northern Ski Challenge saw members of the Squadron join others from 32 Signal Regiment in Les Contamines, France. We were also joined by 10 members of A Company, 2 Royal Irish who are co-located with ourselves at Clonaver Park. A week of superb snow conditions and intensive ski training, focusing on mountain safety and avalanche awareness, the exercise achieved its aim of qualifying beginners and intermediate skiers to Ski Foundation 1 and 2 level.

The Squadron travelled to Ypres on Exercise Northern Salient Poppy in early February for four days. The aim was to provide an educational insight into the leadership challenges prevalent in the First World War with a specific focus on the Command, Control and Communications challenges during the battles around the Ypres Salient. This gave all ranks the opportunity to evaluate and compare events against current British Army Doctrine. Presentation packs were provided before the trip to familiarise personnel on the area including the Battle of Passchendale, the importance of the Menin Gate memorial, and the War Graves Commission.

The Squadron celebrated St Patricks Day along with A Coy, 2 R Irish at Clonaver Park Army Reserves Centre. The parade was inspected and presented with the Shamrock by the Lord Lieutenant of Belfast, Fionnuala Jay O’Boyle, escorted by the star of the show, Irish Wolfhound “Brian Boru X” (named after the High King of Ireland). Clonaver Park was the place to be with the family on St Patrick’s Day, with various stands including the Fire Service, Face painting and recruiting information. After the Parade, everyone enjoyed delicious Irish Stew whilst being entertained by Irish Dancers!

The Squadron has six out of the eight members of 32 Signal Shooting Team. They used Magilligan Training Centre to prepare for the Operational Shooting Competitions where they will compete in Scotland and Bisley later in the year. We have two members of the Squadron selected for the British Army Reserve Operational Shooting Team (BAROST).