Bugle Summer 2026 - Flipbook - Page 32
5 RIFLES
Ex NORMANDY BUGLE
In March, 5 RIFLES deployed more than 160
soldiers to Normandy on Ex NORMANDY
BUGLE, an ambitious battlefield study
designed to develop the battalion’s
understanding of Armoured Infantry,
strengthen team cohesion, and reinforce
the moral component of fighting power.
Conducted across key battlefields of the
Normandy Campaign, the study formed part
of the battalion’s modernisation journey and
sought to connect historical lessons with
the challenges of future warfare.
Visiting locations including Gold Beach,
Hillman Fort, Pegasus Bridge and the
battlefield of Operation TOTALIZE, Riflemen,
JNCOs and commanders examined how
leadership, tempo, firepower and manoeuvre
contributed to mission success in 1944. Central
to the exercise was a JNCO-led discussion
format that encouraged soldiers at every level
to analyse historical actions and consider
how modern armoured infantry forces would
approach similar problems today.
The battlefield study proved particularly
valuable in developing conceptual
understanding. By studying the employment
of armour, combined arms manoeuvre and
command in a demanding operational
environment, participants were able to
critically assess how emerging platforms,
technologies and structures could enhance
future combat effectiveness.
Beyond the tactical lessons, Ex NORMANDY
BUGLE strengthened the battalion’s moral
component. Shared experiences, professional
discussion and reflection at sites such as the
British Normandy Memorial fostered pride,
By walking the ground where history was
made, 5 RIFLES invested in the fighting
spirit, understanding and unity that remain
essential to success on future operations
32 RIFLES The Bugle
cohesion and a deeper appreciation of the
sacrifices made by previous generations.
By walking the ground where history was
made, 5 RIFLES invested in the fighting spirit,
understanding and unity that remain essential
to success on future operations.
Capt Angus Irvine
Adjutant
The battle昀椀eld study proved
particularly valuable in
developing conceptual
understanding
