Gunner David Mann is based in forward operating base (FOB) Armadillo in Helmand Province where he works in the command post with the gun troop.

The command post's role is to coordinate artillery fire when it is called for by the fire support teams (FST) who are on the front line. They coordinate the data that is given to them by the FST and convert it into orders and fire missions for the guns.

These missions vary in nature and are not always high explosive. They can be smoke missions to help keep troops moving on the ground out of sight of the enemy or illuminating missions to light up the sky so the troops can see the enemy.

David told the Herald: "My main job within the command post is computing gun data under the direction of the command post officer and signalling, which involves taking down information from the radio, basic fault finding and general maintenance of the equipment."

He has just finished his degree at the University of Abertay and is currently serving with Regular Unit 1 at Regiment Royal Horse Artillery (1RHA) based in Tidworth and is two months into his first operational tour in Afghanistan.

He continued: "I'm currently posted within Brumby Troop, 1 RHA. This troop was formed in March last year and comprises both Australian and British gunners. This has given me the unique opportunity to observe the workings of a full time gun troop as well as gain an insight into how another army conducts itself during an operational tour and how it differs to the British army.

"My latest endeavour was to provide force protection for a combat logistic patrol. This is where vital supplies such as water, rations and ammunition are moved to outlying areas.

"During the patrol, the convoy struck an improvised explosive device but, fortunately, no one was injured. During the patrol I was given the task of providing cover for the convoy by using the .50 calibre machine gun. It is controlled by using the remote control weapon station in the Eagle 4 vehicle."

David concluded: "Being on this tour has given me the opportunity of living and working with people who have changed my perspective on the army and have swayed my feelings for definitely joining it full time.

"Being on this tour has also changed my whole perspective on the situation out here. It's difficult to understand for people back home who haven't experienced it. If I join the army full time I have the opportunity of trying out for officer training.

"I think that would be a great head start for my career."

David's mother, Sandra, and father, Dave, are looking forward to having him home in Arbroath later this year.