Calum’s crucial supply line for our troops
Reporter: RICHARD HOOTON
Date published: 31 May 2010
‘We don’t really know what is around the next corner’
AN OLDHAM soldier in Afghanistan has spoken of his hearts-and-minds mission.
Pte Calum Jones, a driver with 12 Logistic Support Regiment (12 LSR), is six weeks into a six-month tour of duty in Helmand.
The 20-year-old is based in Camp Bastion, home to thousands of UK, coalition and Afghan troops, where he is responsible for transporting essential supplies, such as equipment, food and water, to troops on the front line.
It is his first operational tour in southern Afghanistan and he goes out on the ground as part of a combat logistic patrol, which sees up to 200 vehicles navigating through difficult terrain, sometimes in darkness, to deliver their cargo to the Forward Operating and Patrol Bases.
Pte Jones said: “The operations are very physically and mentally challenging, but you learn to stay focused on the job in hand. Staying alert is the most important thing.”
Such patrols can last from 24 to 96 hours. Each vehicle has a two-man team who alternate between driving and providing vehicle top cover, as well as helping each other to stay alert during their long journey.
The vehicles move slowly and carefully amid the ever-present danger of improvised explosive devices and rocket-propelled grenades.
The convoy often has to stop to help pull vehicles through difficult terrain and recover heavy loads damaged by enemy explosives.
The integral Force Protection team and infantry soldiers from the combined forces work tirelessly to protect the convoy as it bypasses known insurgent hide-outs.
Pte Jones said: “We don’t really know what is around the next corner. Things change all the time and you have to stay on your toes.
“The daily work is tough because of the heat, but you get used to it.
“I have met the local children on many occasions. They are usually just after some sweets and we gladly hand them out.
“It’s not much to us, but winning the hearts and minds is a key role in what we are out here to achieve.”
Once the convoy reaches its destination, the exhausted drivers immediately offload the medical stores, fuel, food, water and parcels from home for the soldiers based there.
After a few hours rest, the arduous return journey begins.
“I’m always glad to arrive back at Camp Bastion after an operation so I can have a good sleep, some warm food and a hot shower to get all that dust off,” added Pte Jones.
Lieutenant Colonel Chris Rose, commanding officer of 12 LSR, said: “I’m hugely proud of how quickly the troops have adjusted to the challenges we face.
“We have the confidence in our training, equipment and teamwork to fight logistics through to those in need.”
Pte Jones joined the Army in 2008 and is based in Germany when not deployed. The former Counthill School pupil worked as a kitchen fitter before joining up.
His mum Caroline lives in Greenacres and dad Phil in Waterhead - and both are looking forward to his safe return in a few months’ time.
While enjoying the tour, Pte Jones admitted: “I miss having my own space, getting a lie-in and days off.
“I would love to bring my girlfriend Josie out here to help me keep my chin up because she is so supportive. Love you, Josie.”
