http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/-t1.htm Sun, 09 Nov 2008 21:58:11 GMT 10 http://illiweb.com/fa/empty.gif http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/-t1.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/britain-pays-tribute-to-war-dead-t443.htm Cutaway Ceremonies have taken place across the UK to remember the servicemen and women who lost their lives in all past and current armed conflicts. The Queen led Remembrance Sunday tributes at the Cenotaph in London's Whitehall before thousands of veterans marched past the monument. Troops on active service in Iraq and Afghanistan also held services. This year's events come just two days before the 90th anniversary of the armistice at the end of World War I. The commemoration of Britain's ... News Sun, 09 Nov 2008 21:58:11 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/britain-pays-tribute-to-war-dead-t443.htm#611 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/britain-pays-tribute-to-war-dead-t443.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/reme-ssgt-gets-15-years-sentence-t440.htm Cutaway http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/campaigns/our_boys/article1826081.ece]]> News Tue, 28 Oct 2008 02:05:33 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/reme-ssgt-gets-15-years-sentence-t440.htm#607 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/reme-ssgt-gets-15-years-sentence-t440.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/explosives-charge-soldiers-guilty-t439.htm Cutaway guilty of conspiring to possess explosives from an Army barracks and pass them to associates in the criminal underworld. The pair, named as soldiers X and Y, were convicted of conspiracy to possess explosives at Maidstone Crown Court. The jury heard how soldier Y asked another soldier to "do a bit of business" and transport explosives to Scotland in exchange for cash. The pair had been stationed at Howe Barracks in Canterbury, Kent. Soldier X, a 37-year-old Colour Sgt, and ... News Tue, 28 Oct 2008 01:57:35 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/explosives-charge-soldiers-guilty-t439.htm#606 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/explosives-charge-soldiers-guilty-t439.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/ministry-of-defence-to-axe-1200-employees-t438.htm Cutaway THE government is to axe a quarter of the military and civilian staff at the Ministry of Defence (MoD) despite being warned the cuts risk leaving it incapable of predicting threats to the UK or its interests worldwide. The loss of 1,200 of the 4,330 staff will see every branch of the MoD losing posts, with those dealing with threats to the UK and military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan among the worst affected. The posts being axed include intelligence analysts watching potential threats ... News Tue, 28 Oct 2008 01:54:56 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/ministry-of-defence-to-axe-1200-employees-t438.htm#605 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/ministry-of-defence-to-axe-1200-employees-t438.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/marines-back-in-the-vikings-they-are-phenomenal-t92.htm Anonymous The Viking All Terrain Protected Vehicles have proved so effective on operations in Afghanistan that the Marines who drive them are back in Helmand. And there is no other vehicle they'd rather be in. Report by Danny Chapman. The Viking is a Royal Marine asset, but due to their popularity the demand for their use is high amongst all troops patrolling and conducting operations in Helmand. Consequently, the demand on the Marine's trained to drive them is high too. To help alleviate ... News Sun, 09 Mar 2008 16:35:41 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/marines-back-in-the-vikings-they-are-phenomenal-t92.htm#170 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/marines-back-in-the-vikings-they-are-phenomenal-t92.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/germany-scraps-new-iron-cross-t94.htm Anonymous The German government was yesterday forced to scrap plans to re-introduce the Iron Cross, after opponents said the military medal still carried the "burden" of association with Nazi atrocities. Iron Cross: the Nazis added a swastika to the design The medal, the equivalent of the Victoria Cross in Britain, was established during the Napoleonic Wars to reward bravery and valour of officers and enlisted men alike. But its reputation was tarnished by the Nazis, who added a ... News Sun, 09 Mar 2008 16:51:44 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/germany-scraps-new-iron-cross-t94.htm#172 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/germany-scraps-new-iron-cross-t94.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/mps-query-need-for-new-aircraft-carriers-t335.htm Anonymous The future of a £4 billion plan to build two aircraft carriers is under threat because of the military's "unaffordable" equipment programme, MPs have warned. A critical report by the Commons defence committee claims that the Ministry of Defence must make "difficult decisions" which could mean whole programmes being cut. The scheme to build two 60,000-ton carriers, which form a key part of Britain's future defence strategy, is under question after the committee told ... News Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:24:43 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/mps-query-need-for-new-aircraft-carriers-t335.htm#470 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/mps-query-need-for-new-aircraft-carriers-t335.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/parachute-regiment-royal-marines-to-be-merged-t370.htm Cutaway Looks like we are going to turn out like Belgium with a combined "Para-Commando" regiment with the defence cutbacks. News has come through that the Elite Royal Marines Commando Training Centre is to close at the end of August this year. News was intially released after a question by Conservative MP for Exeter, Mr Loof. The question initially was aimed at raising the issue of the lack of "Live Jumps" for the Parachute Regiment. Mr Loof then asked whether the Royal Marines ... News Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:42:41 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/parachute-regiment-royal-marines-to-be-merged-t370.htm#511 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/parachute-regiment-royal-marines-to-be-merged-t370.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/mod-launches-armed-forces-benefits-calculator-t389.htm Admin The MOD has launched an internet-based Armed Forces Benefits Calculator (ABC) to make it quick and easy for Service personnel to assess the total value of their full employment package. The ABC incorporates basic pay, specialist pay, individual allowances, pension and other MOD provided benefits to give an estimate of the package's financial worth. The Calculator will also be made available to potential recruits keen to investigate the type of reward package that might be available should ... News Fri, 04 Apr 2008 14:49:58 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/mod-launches-armed-forces-benefits-calculator-t389.htm#538 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/mod-launches-armed-forces-benefits-calculator-t389.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/52-brigade-troops-begin-returning-from-afghanistan-t388.htm Admin The first British troops from 52 Infantry Brigade have begun to arrive back at their home bases in the UK after a six month tour in Afghanistan. In Edinburgh, troops from 52 Infantry Brigade Headquarters arrived back at the city's Redford Barracks. Under the command of Brigadier Andrew Mackay, the Brigade deployed as part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in October 2007 and commanded the 7,000-strong NATO Task Force Helmand. In theatre, 52 Brigade has been responsible ... News Fri, 04 Apr 2008 14:46:41 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/52-brigade-troops-begin-returning-from-afghanistan-t388.htm#537 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/52-brigade-troops-begin-returning-from-afghanistan-t388.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/new-chief-scientific-adviser-at-the-mod-t387.htm Admin Professor Mark Welland FRS FREng has been confirmed today, Thursday 3 April 2008, as the new Chief Scientific Adviser at the Ministry of Defence. The Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA) is responsible for providing high quality scientific advice to Ministers, senior officials and the Armed Forces. This advice ensures that the Ministry of Defence has access to sound technical information and the technology to support military operations and future strategic capabilities. Professor Welland said: "I ... News Fri, 04 Apr 2008 14:46:00 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/new-chief-scientific-adviser-at-the-mod-t387.htm#536 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/new-chief-scientific-adviser-at-the-mod-t387.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/lieutenant-john-thornton-and-marine-david-marsh-killed-in-afghanistan-part-2-t376.htm Anonymous Marine Marsh’s mother, Maxine, father, Gary and sister Katie said: "David was a very fine son and brother, he was warm, loving and caring at all times. He was a loving husband and very proud father. He embraced life to the full and no matter what happened his big smile bore him through. "He was a dedicated Royal Marine and was proud to serve his country. He was much admired and respected by his colleagues for his professionalism and courage. He will be deeply missed by his family ... News Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:33:32 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/lieutenant-john-thornton-and-marine-david-marsh-killed-in-afghanistan-part-2-t376.htm#520 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/lieutenant-john-thornton-and-marine-david-marsh-killed-in-afghanistan-part-2-t376.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/lieutenant-john-thornton-and-marine-david-marsh-killed-in-afghanistan-part-1-t375.htm Anonymous It is with deep sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the deaths of Lieutenant John Thornton and Marine David Marsh, both of 40 Commando Royal Marines, in southern Afghanistan on Sunday 30 March 2008. Just after 1653 hours local time, the Marines were conducting a patrol in the vicinity of Kajaki, Helmand province, when the vehicle they were travelling in was caught in an explosion. Medical treatment was provided prior to both being evacuated to the field hospital at Camp Bastion. ... News Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:32:13 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/lieutenant-john-thornton-and-marine-david-marsh-killed-in-afghanistan-part-1-t375.htm#519 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/lieutenant-john-thornton-and-marine-david-marsh-killed-in-afghanistan-part-1-t375.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/barracks-site-to-be-used-for-housing-t374.htm Cutaway AN historic military base is set to be turned into a housing estate. Chichester Barracks, the former home of the Royal Military Police – known as the Red Caps – is to be turned into 800 new homes after being sold by the Ministry of Defence. The Roussillon Barracks, which was built in the early 1800s by French prisoners captured in the Napoleonic Wars, has been bought by national regeneration agency English Partnerships. The barracks was the home of the Royal Sussex Regiment until 1964 ... News Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:23:00 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/barracks-site-to-be-used-for-housing-t374.htm#518 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/barracks-site-to-be-used-for-housing-t374.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/thugs-attack-birmingham-army-cadets-t373.htm Cutaway AN army cadet instructor in Birmingham claims his young charges are being targeted by stone-throwing thugs who are angry at the uniform they wear. Sgt Billy Mazella of the Army Cadet Force, based in Washwood Heath, claimed they were having to put up with systematic abuse by gangs of local youths, who seemed to target the cadets because of events in Iraq and Afghanistan. The incidents of stone-throwing, vandalism and verbal abuse have escalated during recent months following the removal of ... News Wed, 02 Apr 2008 23:15:33 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/thugs-attack-birmingham-army-cadets-t373.htm#517 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/thugs-attack-birmingham-army-cadets-t373.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/two-royal-marines-killed-on-sunday-30th-march-t369.htm Anonymous Two Royal Marines have been killed in an explosion in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence has said. The soldiers, serving with 40 Commando Royal Marines, were conducting a patrol near Kajaki, in Helmand Province, shortly before 5pm local time when their vehicle was caught in an explosion yesterday. Medical treatment was provided before both soldiers were taken to the field hospital at Camp Bastion but, despite the best efforts of the medical team, both soldiers died as a result ... News Mon, 31 Mar 2008 21:35:46 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/two-royal-marines-killed-on-sunday-30th-march-t369.htm#510 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/two-royal-marines-killed-on-sunday-30th-march-t369.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/army-rifles-prepare-to-join-the-royal-marines-t339.htm Anonymous The 600 infantrymen of 1st Battalion The Rifles (1 RIFLES), are currently training in the jungles of Belize. They are about to become the fourth unit of 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines and will soon be deploying with the elite marine unit to Afghanistan. A Rifleman proudly displays his 'Commando dagger' badge during training in Belize [Picture: PO (PHOT) Dave Husbands] As part of their normal operational cycle, the Chepstow-based 1 RIFLES are in Belize conducting Jungle Warfare ... News Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:39:14 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/army-rifles-prepare-to-join-the-royal-marines-t339.htm#474 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/army-rifles-prepare-to-join-the-royal-marines-t339.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/the-uae-troops-helping-to-win-afghan-hearts-and-minds-t338.htm Anonymous Muslim troops help win Afghan minds The BBC's security correspondent, Frank Gardner, can reveal that Arab soldiers have been taking part in dangerous missions alongside US troops in Afghanistan. Troops from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been delivering humanitarian aid to their fellow Muslims and, on occasion, fighting their way out of Taleban ambushes. Though Jordanian forces have been carrying out some base security duties, the UAE's troops are the only Arab soldiers undertaking ... News Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:36:00 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/the-uae-troops-helping-to-win-afghan-hearts-and-minds-t338.htm#473 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/the-uae-troops-helping-to-win-afghan-hearts-and-minds-t338.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/13-billion-deal-for-new-tanker-aircraft-signed-t337.htm Anonymous A fleet of new Air Transport and Refuelling Airbus A330-200s will replace the RAF's TriStar and VC-10 aircraft under a £13 billion Private Finance Initiative deal signed today, Thursday 27 March 2008. The deal with AirTanker Ltd, which was announced by Baroness Taylor, the Minister for Defence Equipment and Support, expects to create up to 600 jobs at AirTanker Ltd, and will safeguard up to 3,000 jobs directly at British sites, with thousands more sustained indirectly. The aircraft ... News Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:31:46 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/13-billion-deal-for-new-tanker-aircraft-signed-t337.htm#472 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/13-billion-deal-for-new-tanker-aircraft-signed-t337.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/carrier-delays-may-put-uk-skills-base-at-risk-t336.htm Anonymous Trade minister Lord Digby Jones has warned of the threat to Britain's skills base unless the Government places a long-delayed order for new aircraft carriers. Lord Jones said he would be writing to relevant government departments, including the Ministry of Defence, to express the frustration of companies involved in the consortium that would build the vessels. His move comes amid fears that a decision on building the carriers is now caught up in a new Defence Operational Review, which ... News Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:29:24 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/carrier-delays-may-put-uk-skills-base-at-risk-t336.htm#471 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/carrier-delays-may-put-uk-skills-base-at-risk-t336.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/new-maritime-reconnaissance-and-attack-aircraft-nimrod-should-be-scrapped-mps-say-t334.htm Anonymous Defence ministers should consider scrapping a maritime aircraft programme that is more than seven years late and costing £3.5 billion, a committee of MPs recommends today. The Ministry of Defence, which is suffering the worst budgetary pressure since the 1970s, may already have to cancel projects to balance the books, the Commons Defence Select Committee says in a highly critical report. The MPs suggest that the Nimrod MRA4 maritime reconnaissance and attack aircraft should be axed because ... News Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:22:21 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/new-maritime-reconnaissance-and-attack-aircraft-nimrod-should-be-scrapped-mps-say-t334.htm#469 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/new-maritime-reconnaissance-and-attack-aircraft-nimrod-should-be-scrapped-mps-say-t334.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/comrade-sid-spy-who-siphoned-off-bn-from-iraq-oil-for-food-deal-t333.htm Anonymous A UN official who held a pivotal post in the Oil-for-Food programme for Iraq has been exposed by a defector as a Russian spy who diverted almost half a billion dollars to top Russian officials in “one of the richest heists in world history”. Alexandre Kramar, who set the price of Iraqi crude as a UN oil overseer from 1996 to 2003, was an undercover agent for Russia's foreign intelligence agency, the SVR, his former handler says. The revelation throws new light on the UN Oil-for-Food scandal, ... News Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:18:11 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/comrade-sid-spy-who-siphoned-off-bn-from-iraq-oil-for-food-deal-t333.htm#468 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/comrade-sid-spy-who-siphoned-off-bn-from-iraq-oil-for-food-deal-t333.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/luftwaffe-pilot-apologises-to-bath-for-second-world-war-bombing-t332.htm Anonymous BATH A Second World War Luftwaffe pilot who last saw the city of Bath from the cockpit of a Dornier bomber is to return for the first time in 66 years next month to apologise. Willi Schludecker, now 87, took part in three raids on the city that killed 400 and destroyed scores of Georgian buildings in April 1942. Mr Schludecker, who is in failing health, said his dying wish was to make amends. He will visit the annual remembrance service for victims of the Bath Blitz next month and issue ... News Sat, 29 Mar 2008 20:16:00 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/luftwaffe-pilot-apologises-to-bath-for-second-world-war-bombing-t332.htm#467 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/luftwaffe-pilot-apologises-to-bath-for-second-world-war-bombing-t332.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/equatorial-guinea-seeks-to-extradite-sir-mark-thatcher-t319.htm Anonymous Sir Mark Thatcher, the son of the former prime minister Baroness Thatcher, is facing a new attempt to extradite him to Equatorial Guinea, the oil-rich West African enclave where he was allegedly involved in an attempted coup. The country's attorney-general said that authorities would continue to "go after" Sir Mark by issuing an international arrest warrant. He added that as an alleged accomplice in the 2004 plot, Sir Mark would face a 30-year jail term. The developments ... News Fri, 28 Mar 2008 23:03:18 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/equatorial-guinea-seeks-to-extradite-sir-mark-thatcher-t319.htm#454 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/equatorial-guinea-seeks-to-extradite-sir-mark-thatcher-t319.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/us-steps-up-missile-strikes-in-pakistan-t318.htm Anonymous The United States has stepped up missile strikes against al-Qa'eda militants in Pakistan's tribal areas amid fears of decreased co-operation from the new government. Washington wants to inflict as much damage as it can on al-Qa'eda's network before President Pervez Musharraf loses his grip on power, according to a report published today. Unnamed US officials told The Washington Post that the strikes followed a "tacit understanding" with Mr Musharraf and the army chief, Gen Ashfaq ... News Fri, 28 Mar 2008 22:58:22 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/us-steps-up-missile-strikes-in-pakistan-t318.htm#452 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/us-steps-up-missile-strikes-in-pakistan-t318.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/iraqi-army-calls-on-british-air-support-in-basra-t316.htm Anonymous British warplanes have carried out bomb attacks on Shi'ite militia positions in Basra, directly entering the fray for the first time since the Iraqi army began the crackdown in the southern city. Nouri al-Maliki, the Iraqi prime minister, conceded failure in his bid to crush rebel fighters in Basra today, offering an extended deadline and cash incentives for the surrender of heavy weapons. As Mr Maliki issued his offer the security forces admitted they had lost control of a major city ... News Fri, 28 Mar 2008 22:50:04 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/iraqi-army-calls-on-british-air-support-in-basra-t316.htm#450 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/iraqi-army-calls-on-british-air-support-in-basra-t316.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/north-korea-provokes-us-with-missile-test-t315.htm Anonymous North Korea has let off a salvo of test missiles, issuing a defiant response to American demands for action over nuclear decommissioning and to a new conservative government in the South. The launch of three, perhaps four, ship-to-ship missiles was confirmed by a South Korean presidential spokesman, who said they were part of routine military exercises. But it was carried out the day after the North had expelled 13 South Korean businessmen from a special industrial zone which has been ... News Fri, 28 Mar 2008 22:47:56 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/north-korea-provokes-us-with-missile-test-t315.htm#449 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/north-korea-provokes-us-with-missile-test-t315.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/british-soldier-killed-in-iraq-26-march-2008-t314.htm Anonymous It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of a British soldier in Iraq today, 26 March 2008. The soldier died as a result of gunshot wounds sustained during a firefight in the early hours of this morning. The soldier's family have been informed, and have asked for privacy from the media as they come to terms with their loss. The MOD will not be providing any further updates in line with the wishes of the family, who are in our thoughts at this difficult ... News Fri, 28 Mar 2008 22:41:07 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/british-soldier-killed-in-iraq-26-march-2008-t314.htm#447 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/british-soldier-killed-in-iraq-26-march-2008-t314.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/unmanned-air-vehicle-regiment-bids-farewell-to-the-phoenix-t296.htm Admin The Army's only tactical unmanned air vehicle (UAV) regiment, 32 Regiment Royal Artillery, have said farewell to the Phoenix UAV surveillance aircraft which has most recently been used on operations in Iraq. The Phoenix UAV's, which were bought into service in 1999 as part of the NATO peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, were ceremonially paraded past the soldiers who have used them at an Out of Service Parade held at Roberts Barracks, Larkhill, Wiltshire. 22 (Gibralter) Battery, part of ... News Tue, 25 Mar 2008 22:19:23 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/unmanned-air-vehicle-regiment-bids-farewell-to-the-phoenix-t296.htm#423 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/unmanned-air-vehicle-regiment-bids-farewell-to-the-phoenix-t296.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/canada-honours-the-gurkhas-t295.htm Admin The Gurkhas' efforts in support of operations in Afghanistan have been marked by the award of a special commendation by Canada at Kandahar Air Station. The Canadian Chief of the Defence Staff, General Rick Hillier, presented the Canadian Forces' Unit Commendation to the Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles, Lieutenant Colonel Jonny Bourne. The citation for the award stressed the 'outstanding élan and extemporary combat skills' of the Gurkhas, who have been based ... News Tue, 25 Mar 2008 22:15:22 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/canada-honours-the-gurkhas-t295.htm#422 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/canada-honours-the-gurkhas-t295.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/seal-to-receive-medal-of-honor-for-iraq-heroism-media-is-silent-t287.htm Basti SEAL to receive Medal of Honor for Iraq heroism: Media is silent. By Gidget Fuentes - Staff writer Posted : Wednesday Mar 19, :02:57 EDT SAN DIEGO — A California-based SEAL who threw his body on a grenade to save his comrades in Iraq will posthumously receive the Medal of Honor, a Defense Department official has confirmed. Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (SEAL) Michael A. Monsoor, of Garden Grove, Calif., was holed up on the roof of a Ramadi house with three other SEALs on Sept. 29, 2006, ... News Sat, 22 Mar 2008 16:52:47 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/seal-to-receive-medal-of-honor-for-iraq-heroism-media-is-silent-t287.htm#410 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/seal-to-receive-medal-of-honor-for-iraq-heroism-media-is-silent-t287.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/us-air-force-plans-coal-to-fuel-conversion-plant-t292.htm Basti MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. — On a wind-swept air base near the Missouri River, the Air Force has launched an ambitious plan to wean itself from foreign oil by turning to a new and unlikely source: coal. The Air Force wants to build at its Malmstrom base in central Montana the first piece of what it hopes will be a nationwide network of facilities that would convert domestic coal into cleaner-burning synthetic fuel. Air Force officials said the plants could help neutralize a national ... News Mon, 24 Mar 2008 18:21:51 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/us-air-force-plans-coal-to-fuel-conversion-plant-t292.htm#416 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/us-air-force-plans-coal-to-fuel-conversion-plant-t292.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/another-one-let-down-t291.htm Anonymous A Royal Marine who lost both legs and an arm in a Taliban landmine explosion has been told he is not entitled to the full compensation package offered to injured troops. Mark Ormrod with fiancée Becky Hayes. He proposed after regaining consciousness Mark Ormrod, of 40 Commando, has spent the past three months in intensive care and rehabilitation after being blown up while on foot patrol in Afghanistan on Christmas Eve. Despite the seriousness of his injuries, he has been offered £214,000 ... News Mon, 24 Mar 2008 18:15:19 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/another-one-let-down-t291.htm#414 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/another-one-let-down-t291.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/an-elected-senate-could-replace-house-of-lords-t290.htm Anonymous The House of Lords would be replaced by an elected chamber that could be called the Senate under plans being drawn up at Westminster. Cross-party talks on reforming the Lords are nearing an agreement about replacing most of the existing members of the upper chamber with elected representatives. The new chamber would be smaller than the Lords, with about half of the current total of 748 members. In another break with tradition, the new members would be paid an annual salary, probably ... News Sun, 23 Mar 2008 22:39:02 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/an-elected-senate-could-replace-house-of-lords-t290.htm#413 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/an-elected-senate-could-replace-house-of-lords-t290.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/spy-chiefs-must-come-out-of-shadows-to-give-evidence-t286.htm Anonymous Intelligence chiefs will have to give evidence on key issues in public under Gordon Brown’s proposals for a new national security strategy to be published today. The Prime Minister wants MI6, MI5 and GCHQ, the signals intelligence centre, to be more transparent and open to scrutiny. Today’s White Paper will include a plan for the security and intelligence services to appear before MPs in Parliament when it is judged to be appropriate. At present, under a system that has existed for 14 ... News Fri, 21 Mar 2008 21:20:13 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/spy-chiefs-must-come-out-of-shadows-to-give-evidence-t286.htm#409 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/spy-chiefs-must-come-out-of-shadows-to-give-evidence-t286.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/russia-targets-uk-interests-with-spy-arrests-t285.htm Anonymous The Kremlin appeared to have renewed its hostile campaign against British interests and big business in Russia today when the secret police arrested two men on espionage charges after raiding BP's Moscow headquarters. The arrests came a day after officers seized computers and documents at the offices of the energy giant's joint Russia venture TNK-BP, raising fears among investors that the Kremlin is planning to grab one of the last sizeable oil and gas assets not under state control. The ... News Fri, 21 Mar 2008 21:15:25 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/russia-targets-uk-interests-with-spy-arrests-t285.htm#408 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/russia-targets-uk-interests-with-spy-arrests-t285.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/john-mccain-praises-british-forces-sacrifices-t284.htm Anonymous John McCain said yesterday that he favoured crop spraying in Afghanistan to eradicate poppies, a move that set him on a collision course with Britain. Speaking after meeting Gordon Brown in Downing Street, the US Republican presidential candidate was at pains to emphasise the importance he attached to the “special relationship” with Britain. He also praised the “sacrifice” of British Forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. But in an interview with The Times, the Arizona senator admitted that he ... News Fri, 21 Mar 2008 21:12:32 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/john-mccain-praises-british-forces-sacrifices-t284.htm#407 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/john-mccain-praises-british-forces-sacrifices-t284.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/the-valiant-and-the-vile-t283.htm Anonymous One is a predatory paedophile described as a persistent threat to young boys. The other is a Gurkha hero wounded while fighting in the Falklands War. No prizes for guessing which of these two men was accepted to start a new life in Britain yesterday. The valiant and the vile: Hero Gyanendra Rai (left) is barred from Britain while paedophile Raymond Horne has started a new life here The paedophile: Raymond Horne hides under a towel as he arrives in the UK Valiant: ... News Fri, 21 Mar 2008 21:09:34 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/the-valiant-and-the-vile-t283.htm#406 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/the-valiant-and-the-vile-t283.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/an-elected-senate-could-replace-house-of-lords-t282.htm Anonymous The House of Lords would be replaced by an elected chamber that could be called the Senate under plans being drawn up at Westminster. Cross-party talks on reforming the Lords are nearing an agreement about replacing most of the existing members of the upper chamber with elected representatives. The new chamber would be smaller than the Lords, with about half of the current total of 748 members. In another break with tradition, the new members would be paid an annual salary, probably ... News Fri, 21 Mar 2008 20:47:24 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/an-elected-senate-could-replace-house-of-lords-t282.htm#405 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/an-elected-senate-could-replace-house-of-lords-t282.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/united-nations-sudan-carried-out-mass-rapes-in-darfur-t280.htm Anonymous The United Nations today accused the Sudanese government of being directly involved in the mass-rape of girls and women in the crisis-hit region of Darfur — a damning indictment of the part played by the country's Islamist dictatorship in the humanitarian catastrophe. A report by the UN high commissioner for human rights says it has evidence that the Sudanese Army was involved alongside Arab militia in looting at least three towns, raping girls and women and killing at least 115 people. The ... News Fri, 21 Mar 2008 19:32:23 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/united-nations-sudan-carried-out-mass-rapes-in-darfur-t280.htm#403 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/united-nations-sudan-carried-out-mass-rapes-in-darfur-t280.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/gurkhas-hand-back-medals-in-pension-and-citizenship-protest-t278.htm Anonymous Fifty retired Gurkha soldiers returned their cherished military medals today in protest at what they claim is second-class treatment by Whitehall (writes Nico Hines). Nepalese Gurkhas have been part of the British Army for nearly 200 years, but they receive lower pensions than British soldiers and those who retired before 1997 have no automatic right to claim citizenship and remain in the UK. Several hundred Gurkhas watched as Major Damar Ghale MBE handed back five military awards, as ... News Thu, 20 Mar 2008 20:38:07 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/gurkhas-hand-back-medals-in-pension-and-citizenship-protest-t278.htm#397 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/gurkhas-hand-back-medals-in-pension-and-citizenship-protest-t278.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/cds-iraqis-now-have-a-chance-t277.htm Anonymous Five years since the start of coalition operations in Iraq, CDS has paid tribute to the sacrifice and achievements of the British forces who have served there. Britain's most senior serving military officer, Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, has sent a message to British Armed Forces and their families saying he is proud of what they have achieved in Iraq, adding that it has become clear recently that the British public are proud too. Iraqis now have ... News Thu, 20 Mar 2008 20:29:32 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/cds-iraqis-now-have-a-chance-t277.htm#396 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/cds-iraqis-now-have-a-chance-t277.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/ofsted-to-carry-out-inspections-on-armed-forces-training-t276.htm Anonymous Ofsted and the Ministry of Defence have forged a new partnership to ensure recruits and trainees experience a high quality of training, welfare and care in the UK's Armed Services. Melanie Hunt, Director of Learning and Skills, Ofsted, and Bob Ainsworth, the Minister for Armed Forces signed a pledge to work more closely together. The memorandum of understanding marks a new collaboration between the two departments. The agreement sees Ofsted taking over responsibility for carrying out ... News Thu, 20 Mar 2008 20:22:00 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/ofsted-to-carry-out-inspections-on-armed-forces-training-t276.htm#395 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/ofsted-to-carry-out-inspections-on-armed-forces-training-t276.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/submariners-salvation-new-rescue-system-completes-trials-t275.htm Anonymous A new submarine rescue system, owned jointly by France, Norway and the UK, has successfully completed trials off the coast of Norway. The free-swimming rescue vehicle concluded a successful 'mate' with the Norwegian submarine Uredd at 87 metres in Husnes Fjord, just south of Bergen, last month. In the same trials the vehicle completed a deep dive to 610 metres to demonstrate its vast capability. While not all the deep water acceptance trials were completed in full, there were enough ... News Thu, 20 Mar 2008 20:15:12 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/submariners-salvation-new-rescue-system-completes-trials-t275.htm#394 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/submariners-salvation-new-rescue-system-completes-trials-t275.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/queen-meets-ta-in-northern-ireland-t274.htm Anonymous Her Majesty The Queen met over 300 Territorial Army (TA) soldiers and veterans from Northern Ireland at a reception to mark the TA's centenary on Tuesday, 18 March 2008. Accompanied by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, Her Majesty spoke to TA soldiers, their families and their employers about their experiences of supporting operations around the world. Private David Poole of 152 (Ulster) Transport, RLC (Volunteers), who is recovering after being seriously injured by an Improvise ... News Thu, 20 Mar 2008 20:08:37 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/queen-meets-ta-in-northern-ireland-t274.htm#393 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/queen-meets-ta-in-northern-ireland-t274.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/royal-naval-reserve-media-specialist-receives-medal-t273.htm Anonymous Royal Naval Reservist Commander Sue Eagles was presented with the Queen's Volunteer Reserves Medal (QVRM) by The Prince of Wales at Buckingham Palace this week. She was awarded the QVRM in the News Year's Honours in January 2008 in recognition of her consummate professionalism and outstanding contribution during her service as the NATO Media Spokesman in Afghanistan and throughout her long and distinguished career as a Media Operations Specialist. Commander Eagles who has been on full ... News Thu, 20 Mar 2008 19:52:45 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/royal-naval-reserve-media-specialist-receives-medal-t273.htm#392 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/royal-naval-reserve-media-specialist-receives-medal-t273.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/cgs-operational-success-is-down-to-the-efforts-of-our-people-t269.htm Anonymous Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Richard Dannatt, is fiercely proud of the men and women he commands and of their amazing work in Iraq and Afghanistan. In an exclusive interview for Soldier magazine, he talks about this work, public support for the Armed Forces and about being a father. Report by John Elliott. On a table in his office on the fifth floor of the MOD's Main Building stand framed photographs of soldiers killed in action, sent to him by their families. He wears the distinctive ... News Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:04:26 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/cgs-operational-success-is-down-to-the-efforts-of-our-people-t269.htm#386 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/cgs-operational-success-is-down-to-the-efforts-of-our-people-t269.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/new-measures-to-reward-and-retain-forces-personnel-t268.htm Anonymous Two new measures aimed at rewarding those who stay in the Armed Forces have been announced by Defence Secretary Des Browne today, Wednesday 19 March 2008. The new incentives include a significant increase to retention bonuses for personnel below officer level, of up to £15,000, and a new £20m pilot scheme which will offer more affordable home ownership for Service personnel and their families. Mr Browne said: "I am determined to recruit and retain the right people for our Armed ... News Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:59:48 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/new-measures-to-reward-and-retain-forces-personnel-t268.htm#385 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/new-measures-to-reward-and-retain-forces-personnel-t268.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/role-of-armed-forces-reservists-to-be-reviewed-t267.htm Anonymous A review of the Reserve Forces to ensure that they continue providing a vital element of the UK Armed Forces capability has been announced today, Wednesday 19 March 2008. The review – which will begin on 1 April 2008 - will look at how Reservists from across the three Services have been employed on current operations and their potential use in other roles. It will consider the scope for greater integration into the Regular Forces and how to capitalise on the civilian skills our Reservists ... News Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:56:50 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/role-of-armed-forces-reservists-to-be-reviewed-t267.htm#384 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/role-of-armed-forces-reservists-to-be-reviewed-t267.htm http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/gordon-brown-accused-of-breaking-iraq-promise-t266.htm Anonymous Gordon Brown has been accused of breaking his promises on Iraq as troops were told a force of 4,000 would need to stay in the country until the end of the year. Watch Telegraph TV talking to frustrated troops in Basra Thomas Harding: Iraq's new army and Britain's soldiers The disclosure came on the eve of the fifth anniversary of the invasion. Last year the Government announced to great fanfare that troop levels would be reduced to 2,500 this spring. Line of fire: Gordon Brown ... News Wed, 19 Mar 2008 13:06:54 GMT http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/gordon-brown-accused-of-breaking-iraq-promise-t266.htm#382 http://themilitaryforums.darkbb.com/news-f26/gordon-brown-accused-of-breaking-iraq-promise-t266.htm