Tension easing in Afghanistan says Moray soldier
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A BUCKIE soldier on his second tour of duty in Afghanistan believes that security in the country is improving.
Lance Corporal Daniel Claridge (24) is serving with 4th Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland, and is five months into a six-month stint in the Lashkar Gah district.
Since joining the Army in 2003, the signaller has twice been deployed under Operation Herrick, and has also served in Iraq.
However, it has been a few years since he was last in Helmand, and he said he has noticed a difference.
"The security is a lot better now than it was. When we are out on patrols through villages, the locals often approach us and speak to us, which never used to happen before.
"This time we have been working much more closely with the Afghan police, and the Army too, which has been interesting. They are really keen to learn and do things for themselves, and we have got along well with them," he said.
Deployed to Helmand Province in April, the Highlanders have been helping the Afghan National Army and police to provide security.
L Cpl Claridge is responsible for the maintenance and servicing of all the radios used by soldiers to communicate with each other and with headquarters when they are out in the field.
"The best thing about being a company signaller is that you are providing an important service every day. Without communication you would not be able to go out on patrol and help the Afghan National Security Forces bring security to the locals," said the former Buckie High School pupil.
Although his main job is making sure that the equipment works correctly, L Cpl Claridge says the job is not all about fixing radios.
"On a daily basis I do shifts in the operations room. This is the hub where all the information comes in and out, as well as down to the platoons and up to the battlegroup.
"I man the radio and log every message that is sent and received. It means that I am often the first person to receive information, and I have to make sure it is passed on accurately," he said.
Based in Fallingbostel in Germany, L Cpl Claridge is used to being away from home. Nevertheless, he is looking forward to returning to Buckie to spend time with mum Rose and sisters Kelly, Emma and Hayley.
