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The dig site on Salisbury Plain. [Crown Copyright/MOD 2022]
I’ve been running Operation Nightingale archaeological digs now for more than ten years. It’s an initiative to assist the recovery of wounded, injured and sick military personnel and veterans by getting them involved in archaeological investigations.
It’s always a real thrill and privilege to excavate with a group of military personnel, both serving and veterans, as well as other trained specialist and local volunteers.
The original concept behind these digs - to support the health and wellbeing of military personnel and veterans by getting them involved in archaeological investigations - is still very much the focus of these exercises today.
Owning around 1% of the UK mainland, the Defence estate holds a lot of the nation’s heritage. This work not only assists the wellbeing of participants but also contributes towards DIO’s commitment to the stewardship of the historic estate.
Last month we were out on Salisbury Plain on an exciting excavation of a 7th century Saxon cemetery and have uncovered around 26 burials in 22 graves. We have also had some really wonderful finds, including Roman coins, bronze and silver discs and a beautiful necklace made of glass beads.
As well has having a team of archaeologists and ecologists in DIO, there is also a dedicated Cultural Property Protection Unit in 77 Brigade which advises senior leaders on cultural heritage, ensuring it is preserved and protected in areas where conflict is taking place and the British military are involved. DIO aims to assist in part of this training process; something we were involved with in the campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The excavation sites selected for Op Nightingale are carefully chosen to meet the needs of the exercise. The wide vistas and sense of space provides a place to really switch off and we choose sites that we know will provide some interesting archaeology. The process of carefully uncovering the finds is part of the therapeutic process, it helps to focus the mind and provides a sense of achievement.
And this dig has not disappointed. We’ve found a 1400-year-old comb made of deer antler, pieces of Neolithic pots – around 5000 years old – even some structures on the site that could be Roman. One of the most interesting finds is a sharpening stone, we haven’t found one of those before!
The sharpening stone found during the excavation. [Crown Copyright/MOD 2022]Defence Infrastructure Organisation
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