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Royal Engineers strengthen ties with the Rock
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During the month of April, the Royal Engineers are back on The Rock in large numbers. Over two hundred soldiers, from three different units, are currently training in Gibraltar.
37 Armoured Engineer Squadron, normally based in Paderborn, Germany, have been here since the beginning of February working on a wide variety of engineering tasks. They have built a new car park at Devils Tower camp, demolished a building in the Naval Base, improved the training facilities at Buffadero Training Centre, hung a new bell at St Bernard?s Church ? and much more.
?This has been an opportunity to hone our engineering skills and to build our teamwork in an environment where, for once, no-one is shooting at us,? said Major Andrew Devey. ?But the Freedom of Gibraltar parade was the highlight of our time here. We?d like to thank the people of Gibraltar for the incredible reception they have given us.?
Meanwhile, 10 Field Squadron (Air Support) are also in Gibraltar on Exercise Tarik Patrol. ?Our normal role to provide engineering support to the RAF,? said Major Brian Williamson. ?The unit?s permanent base is at RAF Leeming in Yorkshire but we can be deployed to anywhere in the world. For instance, it was this squadron that built the runway at Camp Bastion in Afghanistan.?
Whilst in Gibraltar, Major Williams? unit is here to fill the tasks normally undertaken by the Royal Gibraltar Regiment. ?While the RG are away in on exercise in Wales, we will be providing security to The Rock as well as providing the guards at the Convent,? added Major Williamson. ?Many of the Squadron?s soldiers have never been to Gibraltar before so this is an excellent opportunity to make full use of the facilities here. The training we?re doing in the tunnels is unique and we?re taking full advantage of this opportunity.?
The third unit currently on The Rock is 131 Independent Commando Squadron, Royal Engineers, who are undertaking a diving course on the South Mole. Based in London, this Territorial Army unit provides engineering support to the Royal Marines.
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