Signalers relish return to training

144 Signals Squadron returned to training for combat in the field after several years of providing a high level of support to domestic operations.

CAPTION: Australian Army soldiers with 144 Signals Squadron train for combat during Exercise Hermes Recon at the Murray Bridge Training Area, South Australia. Photo by Sergeant Adam Barlow.

Soldiers were put through their paces during Exercise Hermes Recon at Murray Bridge Training Area, South Australia.

They undertook serials to develop infantry minor tactics with a focus on defensive operations, along with sharpening their high-frequency radio capability.

Lieutenant Adrian Crossing said the squadron was enthusiastic about the hit-out.

“People join the Army and put on the green for this type of activity,” Lieutenant Crossing said.

“It’s good for them to get back to their core skills, and I think it’s very exciting for them.

“People join the Army and put on the green for this type of activity”

Radio operator Signals Janine Frost has spent three decades at the unit as a reservist and continues to jump at the chance to participate in field training.

“The comms equipment over 30 years has changed so much, I’m always learning,” Signals Frost said.

“That’s what keeps me here.”

However, she said there was more to it than just the training opportunities.

“It’s such an amazing group of people,” Signals Frost said.

“It’s changed a lot over the years that I’ve been here, and different people have come through, but they’ve all been really amazing, so it’s always changing and it always feels fresh.”

Officer Commanding 144 Signals Squadron Major Erica Abend was pleased with her troops’ efforts and emphasised the training’s importance in supporting an integrated 9th Brigade.

“9th Brigade … recognises the need for talented part-time and full-time members to work together,” Major Abend said.

“Getting back to regularly undertaking training activities such as these gives the brigade broader skills to draw-on and greater flexibility to surge when needed.”

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