Building morale
Outside the comparative luxury of Camp Bastion, living conditions for 3 RIFLES were basic
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) [6KB]
Corporal Kevin Ball
Corporal Ball remembers his best and worst memories of the tour.
Corporal Ball's transcript (PDF) [5KB]
Serjeant Kevin Foxton
Serjeant Foxton gives a passionate account of the living conditions he endured during Operation Herrick 11.
Serjeant Foxton's transcript (PDF) [32KB]
Serjeant Kevin Foxton #2
Serjeant Foxton laughs at being caught out by a female helicopter pilot.
Serjeant Foxton's transcript 2 (PDF) [3KB]
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.
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- Courageous Restraint 3 Rifles in Afghanistan