British Army welcomes Iraq and Afghanistan veteran as new Commander Field Army

A veteran of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq has officially become the new Commander Field Army.

Lieutenant General Mike Elviss, who began service commissioning into the Royal Regiment of Artillery in August 1995, was selected for sub-unit command in 2002 and twice deployed to Iraq in infantry and artillery roles a year later.

A return to Iraq followed his appointment as Chief of Staff 20th Armoured Brigade, having attended the Advanced Command and Staff Course.

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Lt Gen Elviss was later deployed to Afghanistan, where he eventually commanded the Task Force Helmand Joint Fires and Targeting Group during Operation Herrick 18.

The new Commander Field Army's experience also includes time commanding 20th Armoured Infantry Brigade, including a year as Nato's Very High Readiness Task Force (Land).

His new role includes responsibility for assigned operations and defence engagement.

Reporting to the Chief of the General Staff, Lt Gen Elviss will oversee the running of the Field Army, whose personnel command high-demand, low-volume capabilities.

The Field Army is made up of the Surveillance Group, Understand Group (the Field Army’s intelligence engine), Cyber Electro-Magnetic Activities Special Effects Group and the Land Warfare Centre.

The Army Special Operations Brigade, 77 Brigade and the 2nd Medical Brigade also fall under the Field Army command.

Lt Gen Elviss said: "It is with huge pride that I assume command of the Field Army. I inherit an organisation which is successfully delivering on CGS's (Chief of the General Staff's) call to mobilise the Army, and look forward to the exciting journey ahead.

"We will deliver the most productive and lethal Field Army possible, for the UK and Nato – whilst operating globally and delivering the most ambitious programme of modernisation in a generation."