Signals soldiers given Iraq medals
3 Jul 09
60 communication specialists from 20th Armoured Brigade (The Iron Fist), the last serving British brigade in Iraq, received their operational medals this week in front of family, friends and partners.
Members of 20th Armoured Brigade Headquarters and 200 Signal Squadron parade to receive their TELIC Medals for operational service in Iraq
[Picture: Cpl James Williams RLC, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]
Paderborn-based 200 Signal Squadron, which supports the Brigade Headquarters, were responsible for shutting down the communication networks in the south of Iraq while handing command over to the Americans.
Brigadier Tom Beckett (late Para) presented all first-time recipients of the TELIC medal on Wednesday 1 July 2009, followed by a speech in which he congratulated all members of the Headquarters and 200 Signal Squadron saying:
"The brigade has been there three times and to see our collective efforts over the last six years produce a good result in Basra is great.
"TELIC 13 was historic because it was the last British tour in Iraq and done successfully."
Troops from 200 Signal Squadron were based at the majority of British force locations in southern Iraq including as far south as the port at Umm Qasr and at Iranian border crossings.
Major Andy Coulston, Officer Commanding 200 Signal Squadron, said:
"The team as a whole performed exceedingly well, providing our role excellently."
Signaller Byron Newton from Nottingham on operations
[Picture: Cpl James Williams RLC, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]
The signallers were also involved with the Military Transition and the Training and Advisory Teams, teaching and mentoring the Iraqis in how to set up networks and send secure messages.
Communication Systems Operator Corporal Damien Legg said of the Iraqi equipment:
"Their kit was functional and worked well - but what they needed was to be taught how to implement and best use it."
The brigade conducted a seamless handover to the US Army's 10th Mountain Division during the final stages of TELIC 13 and continued to provide effective communications throughout the region.
Signaller Byron Newton was honoured to receive his first campaign medal - one of the last ones awarded for operations in Iraq and has some fond memories of his tour:
"I was involved in Force Protection and helped to set up the link on Safwan Hill, linking Kuwait to the Contingency Operating Base in Basra. The tour gave me an opportunity to get fitter and improve on my trade skills - increasing my knowledge."