3rd Battalion Update – December 2012
The Battalion completed its tour of Afghanistan on Operation HERRICK 16 at the end of October 2012. During its time in theatre it met with great success in enhancing stability, developing the Afghanistan National Security Forces (ANSF) and in denying the insurgent freedom of action.
Since returning, a number of post-tour events have been held including a medals parade in Warminster and successful parades in York and Halifax.
Operations and Training
In the second half of the tour, the Battalion maintained its hold of the Combined Force Nahr-e-Saraj (South) – abbreviated CF NES(S) - area of operations (AO) while also leading and taking part in a number of operations to disrupt, isolate and clear any insurgents. It also played a key role in merging CF NES(S) and CF NES(N) into a single consolidated AO under the incoming 40 Commando Royal Marines.
Corunna Company, who deployed in February, continued to serve as the theatre Armoured Infantry Company and was predominantly based out of Lashkar Gar Durai. They returned in September after a highly successful and much praised performance.
Since returning, Corunna Coy has conducted Armoured Infantry training courses in preparation for the assumption of our role as the Land Warfare Centre (LWC) Battlegroup in April 2013. Having returned much later, the rest of the Battalion has been focussed on post-tour events.
Manning and Recruiting
3 YORKS is in a strong position to deliver any manpower changes in 2013.
Key Appointments
The following appointments took place:
- Major B TERRY appointed Battalion Second in Command (2IC)
- Capt S DAVIES appointed Adjutant
Sport and Adventurous Training
The adventurous training package being run as part of the return from operations is about to kick off. The first expeditions take place over Christmas leave while the remainder will take place in the spring. These include:
- Climbing Mont Blanc.
- Cycling the length of the USA.
- Mountain biking, hiking and kayaking the length of the Pyrenees.
- Skiing in Bavaria.
Future
The next six months will focus on resetting after operations and preparing for the Land Warfare Centre role due to start in April 2013.