Exercise KHUKURI PULNIRMAN, was a combat engineering exercise run by 69 Gurkha Field Squadron in the Wyke Regis Training Area (WRTA).
The aim was to conduct combat engineering tasks to ensure the skills and knowledge of the Squadron members is current and maintained at high readiness for future deployments.
The Squadron departed for Chickerell camp, Weymouth, on 29th of November 2021. There were various tasks planned and each task was executed by the groups under supervision from the Senior Non-Commissioned Officers and Troop Commanders. The tasks included a 5-bay Medium Girder Bridge, Medium Girder Over Bridge, Heavy Girder Over Bridge, Class 30 and 70 trackway, and an Aerial Ropeway. Members of the Squadron also had the opportunity to visit Bovington Tank Museum to gain knowledge about the evolution of armoured tanks and their involvement in major conflicts.
Watermanship training and captive ferry construction and operation were the two tasks that the Squadron took part in together. Under Sergeant Dil Pun’s supervision, the Squadron constructed a captive ferry across the Fleet, spanning almost 100m technically a very complicated task. Concurrently, there was a group discussion between Sappers, as well as presentations from the Lance Corporals to improve communication and presentation skills. During the watermanship training, personnel operated the assault and Avon Redcrest boats and constructed an improvised raft. There were creative rafts constructed by each troop/department and friendly competition took place to develop camaraderie. Fortunately, Squadron Headquarters won the competition, while G Troop however, capsized. On the same evening a Squadron BBQ was organised which helped everyone enjoy, relax and build team cohesion.
By Sapper Sameer Rai, Queen’s Gurkha Engineers
