Also back in 2012 rumours were rife that one of the group had been lying low for many years as a “sleeper cell”  abroad, it was suggested that as he had not been on operations for many years so he may have to  be brought back to complete his annual training and familiarisation . Well during the last 12 months he had not been on what could be termed as real operations or work, so the decision was to bring him in from the cold (or in his case the Hot). There was another slight issue with this, what will he look like, the last time he had been seen was many years ago, only one man would recognise him, even in a passing car (Woody), he went on to communicate and make the necessary plans resulting in the “Belgium resistance had landed” (welcome back Dave Clarke).

Another member of the group had been pulled from his normal base location and deployed to another part of the country, from up North to Reading of all places. There was much debate about the classification of his billeting, was it a; prefab, mobile home, shed, all in someway had a little of the truth in them.  Never the less the key to this move was the practical issues of becoming newby to less work and more time with family.

As the training plans progressed warning letters were sent out to the troops, which signalled the start of the operations. As always the comrades were communicating in the small but well established networks, making travel plans and discussing what was to be expected on their next mission. There was a mixture of excitement and trepidation of what was to come. A number of the team volunteered for the advance party.

From the North, South, East and West they came, however on this occasion there were some noticeable absences. What was it Pete Dibble, a broken toe!

The operational dates soon came around with the advanced party followed soon after by the remaining troops at “Camp Manhatton”, Blackpool. Troops signed in and were given briefings and billeting arrangements.  After moving all their equipment (zimmer frames, mobility scooters, walking sticks, not to mention all the pills and potions etc) and clothing to their rooms, which in itself for some was a major operation, troops returned to the welcoming centre to renew their associations, others however had personal admin to complete (a nap after the travel).

 

All troops paraded at 1730 hrs in the mess hall to have dinner, as always the food at this camp was always of a very high standard. After dinner troops retired to the lounge and resumed the bonding of a beverage or two.

As the night progressed some went to a local bar others retired for a good night’s sleep ready for the adventures ahead.

Saturday soon came around and troops all paraded for breakfast on time as per the part 1 orders. Then there was a surprise! Due to the importance of the next part of the operation it was considered that there was no need to keep this a secret as has been done in years gone by. The command for the exercise revealed that the main task for that morning was to test agility, aim and fitness (if someone could bend down), it was to be bouncing projectiles and taking out the enemy (Ten Pin Bowling).

There were a number of panics when we arrived at the command task, firstly we thought we had misplaced Big Ron, however he soon turned up.

Then the staff informed us at the training centre that we didn’t have a booking. This was only a decoy and Mr Finland soon sorted this, he had booked the top secret secure room up another flight of stairs. Tactically troops moved up to the secret room one or two at a time, this could be considered to be very tactical, (more likely most were struggling to make another flight of stairs).

Shooting teams were paired off and instructions on the task given. Arduous as it was competition to achieve the best shot was high, a number having direct hits (strike). It should be noted that there are a number of devious characters in the group and some were doing everything possible to affect the outcome. – Hiding the ammunition (balls) under there coats – you know who you are.

The foul play caused a number of minor disagreements of who’s balls were who’s, who had the biggest balls and who only needed smaller balls these days.

The challenge ended, scores were collected and troops retired for liquids and food. Even during meals some of the troops were being tested. This was the old bendy chair test where the seats almost touched the floor and troops had to eat meals in this strange position.

After such a challenge there was down time for the troops. How times have changed Geoff White attending the pleasure beach, Perry & Stewart having afternoon tea watching the dancing in the Tower ballroom.

The next test couldn’t of been planned or executed better “Battle First Aid”. Reg Day had gone off at quick time with some other of the comrades in pursuit, nearing the Camp Manhatton Reg simulated an explosive blast and with the wind blowing strongly, Reg flew in the air and landed on the side of the road. The comrades went into action, the 5 b’s – breathing, bleeding, breaks, burns & bumps on head – ¾ prone position, support and comfort the casualty whilst someone goes for help. The test was completed without fault and for real paramedics attended, giving Reg the all clear and he was soon back in the lounge where his comrades continued with the remedial first aid.

The next test was to test the PP&C (Preparation, planning and control) for the seniors in the group. The task was to plan the evening meal & mess meeting, whilst throwing in to the mix the chefs & waiting staff shift pattern and the FA cup final. It wasn’t a surprise the FA Cup fell on this day, but it was a surprise that one of the teams involved was Wigan and this was of significant interest to at least one person. Wigan v Manchester City.

 

There was another test slipped in just before the evenings events “Values & Standards”. Brian Hogan decided to leave his expensive camera in the main function room on full view to test peoples honesty. Brian returned to the room pretending he didn’t know where he had left it, again to test if anyone would be honest enough to tell him where it was. This test was completed in full – the troops have very good values & standards and should be proud of themselves.

The plan was in place and troops arrived in the Mess, as per dress code (not too sure about the new boy in his very European white suit though) for pre-dinner drinks. Albert “no boots” Johnson called up the troops and arranged the annual reunion photo – as if by Magic!!!

 

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