Troops preparing to leave for the Gulf today said they were ready for anything.
Soldiers from 3 Para, based at Colchester Garrison, spoke of the training they have been doing in preparation for any action in Iraq.
Captain Jake Pounds, 28, said: "We have been training in Brecon. We went through a complete package of training, including live firing."
Troops prepare to leave for the Gulf
Soldiers have also been involved in training for battle in buildings.
Capt Pounds added that recent firefighting duties had not been a major distraction for the battalion.
Major Steve Napier, 32, said soldiers had also been practising nuclear, biological and chemical weapons drills.
He said: "The soldiers are well versed in drills if they come under attack.
"Everyone carries a respirator, a suit which carries protection against chemicals, boots and gloves."
He said that soldiers could put on their respirators within a matter of seconds and they would know from intelligence if they were going to be under attack with chemicals.
Soldiers who spoke to the Evening Gazette today said they had not seen any need to supplement Army issue desert kit by buying their own.
Town MP Bob Russell has again raised his concerns in Parliament about the ever-growing threat of a war with Iraq.
Published Thursday, January 23, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article