Pride of the force

Aug 12 2009 by Julie Watt, Dumfries Standard Wednesday

TWO hundred and thirty army cadets and more than 100 adults returned recently from their action-filled fortnight's camp at Beckingham in Lincolnshire.

This was the annual camp of the West Lowland Battalion Army Cadet Force involving young people from Dumfries and Galloway, Ayrshire, Inverclyde and Renfrewshire in a fun filled feast of military, adventurous, challenging activities and sport.

Commandant of the Battalion Colonel Kevin Connor said: “This was a fantastic two weeks for the kids.

“Many people think the Army Cadet Force is just part of the army and would be surprised at what we do and how much fun we have doing it.

“We are actually a youth organisation only sponsored by the army.

“Whilst kids can get a bad name in the press these days it was pleasing to see the commitment and effort put in by all to make this camp so successful.”

The host of adventurous and challenging pursuits were particularly enjoyed by the cadets.

Canoeing, kayaking orienteering, archery and paintball kept the youngsters amused.

As well as target shooting with a variety of weapons, up to a range of 300 metres there was busy field-craft package.

This is where the cadets learn to apply their core basic skills in activities such as map reading, navigation, first aid and patrolling in day and night time scenarios depending on their skill levels.

Just to live in the field for up to 48 hours, keep warm, clean and cook their own food can be very challenging for a young person.

Military activities in camp cadets focus on drill and looking smart. The instructors are quite sure many parents would be amazed how clean and tidy Cadets can keep their rooms whilst polishing their boots and parading in neatly ironed uniforms each morning.

The drill competition in particular was one of the most fiercely competitive events at camp with kids choosing to practice on the drill square in their own time for days beforehand.

Most evenings the kids were kept busy with sporting and social events.

The last day of camp was spent at Alton Towers.

To maintain the element of competition many of the activities were scored and cadets gained points in a competition, named after the huge Lucas Tooth Shield awarded to the winning company.

This year D Company from Ayrshire retained the shield.

Major Andrew Hay the local area commander said: “We had over 50 cadets from the Dumfries and Galloway area, all putting in a great effort and thoroughly enjoying camp.

“I am very proud of them, many leaving Camp with certificates, prizes and awards.

“I would say to any youngster between 12 and 18 years of age to give the Army Cadet Force a try.”

The force is also looking for adults to train as instructors.