Post by Diarist on Jun 23, 2015 10:13:23 GMT 1
It has been a busy week - there is a lot of work preparing for the Experimental Parachute Company. The first course starts on Monday, July 1st but we have to report in on the Sunday. It has been decided to increase the first course to a company-sized unit of 4 platoons, each with 100 trainees. I realise that these are large platoons but it is expected that many applicants will drop out during the 4 week course. In addition, many graduates will be going back to their original units. The goal is to set up a standing Parachute Company with 4 platoons each with 4 squads. I've been working with CPT Franklin, the XO, to put together a TO&E for the company - I've never done that before. One platoon will be a support platoon with heavier weapons.
The personnel are volunteers from the Independent Companies of the 23 Territorial Army Divisions. These are again volunteers from each division which are given extra training for commando operations. One of Winston Churchill's ideas. The good news is that 600 parachutes are available as well as 480 Thompson SMG's. We also have 24 aircraft of various types as well as a maintenance support unit for the aircraft. We also have a parachute rigging platoon which are being trained by civilians from GQ Parachute Company, the manufacturer. I believe that we are ready - just a few finishing touches are necessary.
On the home front Sally and I are almost inseparable - we really are made for each other. She is even staying at the Saffron Hotel! I talked to General Gort about her accompanying me to Lisbon. He said that he'll think about it. She's willing and she also has a valid passport. She has also applied for a job as secretary in the Aviation section of our HQ. Prince Edward's idea....
Tomorrow I'll be flying to Lisbon - my last time until after the training course. I've received a large 'package' from the MoD to take there.
Time for dinner.
The personnel are volunteers from the Independent Companies of the 23 Territorial Army Divisions. These are again volunteers from each division which are given extra training for commando operations. One of Winston Churchill's ideas. The good news is that 600 parachutes are available as well as 480 Thompson SMG's. We also have 24 aircraft of various types as well as a maintenance support unit for the aircraft. We also have a parachute rigging platoon which are being trained by civilians from GQ Parachute Company, the manufacturer. I believe that we are ready - just a few finishing touches are necessary.
On the home front Sally and I are almost inseparable - we really are made for each other. She is even staying at the Saffron Hotel! I talked to General Gort about her accompanying me to Lisbon. He said that he'll think about it. She's willing and she also has a valid passport. She has also applied for a job as secretary in the Aviation section of our HQ. Prince Edward's idea....
Tomorrow I'll be flying to Lisbon - my last time until after the training course. I've received a large 'package' from the MoD to take there.
Time for dinner.