In December 2025, personnel from the Resident Sky Sabre Battery (RSSB), based at British Forces South Atlantic Islands, completed a 30 mile yomp into Stanley, carrying operational weight across challenging terrain. The demanding endurance march tested both physical robustness and mental resilience. Some personnel completed the full 30 miles, while others supported the effort by covering 10 mile legs.
A Steady and Disciplined Approach
Across all groups, those taking part adopted a steady, controlled pace, recognising that endurance rather than speed was key to success over distance. While the physical strain was significant, particularly on the long, sloping hills, many identified the mental challenge of sustained effort as the greatest test.
Reflecting on the experience, Gunner May said:
“Being able to see the finish point but still being miles away. Usually, physical challenges are fast and intense — this was slower, which perhaps is what made it more mentally challenging.”
Teamwork and Shared Leadership
A strong theme throughout the yomp was camaraderie and shared leadership. Leadership was evident at every level, with individuals routinely stepping forward to
motivate others when morale began to dip.
Lance Bombardier McBride said:
“From the youngest gunner to the most senior officer, leadership was good throughout.”
Regular checks at checkpoints, ongoing conversation, humour and shared music all played an important role in maintaining morale. This collective approach ensured no one was left to struggle in isolation and reinforced trust within the teams.
Personal and Collective Achievement
For many involved, the greatest achievement was completing the yomp together. On reaching the finish, personnel described a strong sense of accomplishment, alongside pride in both individual perseverance and collective effort. Several highlighted that the challenge revealed unexpected reserves of resilience within the Battery, particularly during periods of prolonged fatigue.While some had undertaken structured buildup training, others noted that mental determination was a decisive factor in overcoming the distance.
Memorable Moments and Reflection
Alongside the physical demands, those on the route reflected on numerous memorable moments. These included encouragement from civilians driving past, many of whom sounded their horns in support. Conversations varied, often turning to the historical significance of Stanley and how it has changed over time, providing welcome distraction and perspective.
Contribution to Operational Readiness
All those involved expressed a willingness to take part in similar challenges in the future, with some aiming to complete the full 30 miles. The yomp, along with its preparatory training, was widely regarded as enhancing operational readiness, reinforcing the RSSB’s ability to move long distances with equipment while maintaining effectiveness.
The event served as a clear reminder of an enduring military principle: physical conditioning, mental resilience and collective leadership remain fundamental to operational success.
