Building morale

At the start of the deployment, running water was scarce at the smaller patrol bases, as were hot showers. A section of Royal Engineers were part of the Battle Group and they played a vital role, both in patrols and for improving the safety and living conditions for the soldiers.

At least two combat engineers would accompany a patrol. In their kit bags were explosives designed to blast through the mud compound walls to escape enemy action or to reach injured soldiers. On a larger scale, the Engineers worked round-the-clock to upgrade the security of patrol bases as well as improving the washing and sleeping facilities.

Rifleman Johnston

Rifleman Johnston describes how life on a Forward Operating Base is different from that on a Patrol Base.

Rifleman Johnston's transcript (PDF, 6 KB)

Corporal Kevin Ball

Corporal Ball remembers his best and worst memories of the tour.

Corporal Ball's transcript (PDF, 5 KB)

Serjeant Kevin Foxton

Serjeant Foxton gives a passionate account of the living conditions he endured during Operation Herrick 11.

Serjeant Foxton's transcript (PDF, 32 KB)

Serjeant Kevin Foxton #2

Serjeant Foxton laughs at being caught out by a female helicopter pilot.

Serjeant Foxton's transcript 2 (PDF, 3 KB)

Rifleman Miller

Rifleman Miller describes living conditions at Patrol Base Jamil - one of more than 22 PBs within the 3 RIFLES Battle Group area of operations.

Rifleman Miller's transcript (PDF, 2 KB)