Ascension : EXERCISE TURTLE HERITAGE 2005
Submitted by The Islander (Gavin Yon) 01.12.2005 (Article Archived on 15.12.2005)

508 Specialist Team Royal Engineers (Works)(Volunteers), a Territorial Army Unit based in Chilwell, Nottingham, UK arrived on Ascension Island just over a week ago for their annual two week exercise – TURTLE HERITAGE.

508 Specialist Team Royal Engineers (Works)(Volunteers), a Territorial Army Unit based in Chilwell, Nottingham, UK arrived on Ascension Island just over a week ago for their annual two week exercise – TURTLE HERITAGE.  The team, predominantly from a mix of engineering civilian backgrounds are here to undertake a wide range of tasks for both AIB and AIG.  These tasks include the surveying of a number of buildings to identify and test for the presence of asbestos, the design of a new canteen at the airhead, the structural appraisal of buildings and assisting AIB in producing statements of requirement for future developments within the base. 

The 14 strong team have over 250 years engineering experience between them, with individuals ranging from 26 to 49 years old, some with ex regular military service. 

Whilst the team have been busy with the tasks assigned they have set aside time to explore the island and partake in the variety of challenges the Island offers including , climbing Sisters Peak, scree slope running, swimming, sea fishing and the Dew Pond challenge. 

Maj Paddy Rosborough, Officer Commanding 508 STRE, remarked “we have all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves contributing valuable works to the civil and military communities here on Ascension Island, and look forward to our colleagues returning next year to undertake further tasks on the island.  We are extremely grateful of the hospitality shown to us.”

The team depart (flight permitting!!) on Sat 4 Dec, back to work Monday with Christmas shopping and the British weather to look forward to.