OC A Sqn 3rd/9th Light Horse (SAMR)
SEC: UNCLASSIFIED
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Since my last report the Sqn has been working on restricted resources' as has been the rest of the Reserve Army. This has had an effect on both the Sqns ability to train and overall morale. It is interesting to note that this occurs at a time when the Sqn and reserve in general, is at its busiest involvement in operational commitments within Australia and overseas since the 1940's. The first quarter of 2010 has seen a relaxing of restrictions and a return to more normal operation (still reduced from previous years) with an emphasis of force generation, prioritised from individual qualifications through to collective unit training respectively. Within this design of training it is impossible for the Unit to exercise together at any one time, as someone is always off supporting/involved in other training within the Bde/Div.
It is the norm now to always have soldiers deployed either on Operations or Rifle Company Butterworth. As I write this we have soldiers in the Solomon Islands and another group about to start their preparation for deployment at the end of the year. Our training is focused around the collective Cavalry capability at Troop and Patrol level both in the mounted and dismounted capability. This enables us to support both our operational and domestic requirements from Bde/Div.
The SSM and I attended the Annual RAAC conference in early March. It was my sixth Conference (3 as SSM and now 3 as OC) and was the most focused I have been to. Day one briefings brought us all up to speed on the latest projects and directions they are taking and with the looming force structure changes of the ARA and Reserve in the not too distant future, the Corps directed the participants to work in various work groups on specific topics. For the first time the RAInf was invited to attend, lead by their head of Corps (BRIG Moon) and the majority of the ARA Bn CO's. The reason for this was to have a combined front to Army on a couple of issues and projects that will have a large effect of both Corps. This goes to show the calibre and foresight of our current HOC (BRIG Roger Noble).
The outcome of the conference was the production of working papers to be sent higher and used in conjunction with the force structure review later in the year. The task is to align the Corp with the capabilities required from the defence white paper from 2009. Obviously I cannot go into detail about the content, but can say that the current group of commanders in our Corps are not walking around with blinkers on. There is a realisation that just because we are structured and equipped like we are now, does not mean it is right or how it will be in the future. This goes for both the ARA units and the reserve, so we wait to see what the future holds after the review is conducted. From a reserve point of view it is very much focused around the support to the ARA Units with individuals whilst maintaining current 2 Div operational capability, individually and at small team/sub unit level, both domestically and OS.
Locally the Sqn is preparing for a small commitment of individual members to the Bde CATA, picking up training shortfalls in preparation for operational deployment. Also we are about to start our preparation and evaluation of our team to participate in the Corps selection process for the Cambrian Patrol Competition UK. Anzac day preparation has begun and due to the current resource restrictions, the Unit will march as part of the combined Bde formation. The Guidons will still be paraded and guarded with the traditional lance guards. Hope to see you all at the various ceremonies on the day, until then "Nec Aspera Terrent".
Regards,
Major
Hamish McKendrick
Officer Commanding
A SQN 3/9 LH (SAMR)
SEC: UNCLASSIFIED
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Nec
Aspera Terrent
