STAND TO THE OFFICIAL MILITARY MAGAZINE OF LNR ARMY CADET FORCE ISSUE 1 SUMMER 2013
ANNUAL CAMP 2013 SPECIAL Annual Camp 2013 will be in Otterburn, Northumberland. Are you ready for a camp to remember?
COMMANDANTS INTERVIEW Fresh from his service in the Army Reserves, Col Turner gives his first interview as LNR Commandant
AREA NEWS
ADULT NEWS
Have you attended any events in your Company or Squadron? Find out what is going on in your area.
With the launch of the new Adult Induction Cadres, we take a look on what it takes to become an ACF instructor.
CADET NEWS From the latest on kit issue to dates for your diary, every cadet and adult needs to be up to date.
WARNING ORDER SPECIAL FEATURES CVQO
Ever wondered what CVQO is? Do you wish you to gain some recognised qualifications form the ACF?
MASTER CADET
Only a tiny minority of cadets get the chance to go for the Master Cadet Award. S/Sgt Dyson tells us his story.
ANNUAL CAMP
A four page special pull out, we give you all the necessary briefing notes to ensure you have the best annual camp.
ADULT TRAINING
There are big changes taking place in how we train Probationary Adult Instructors. Confused ? Read this!
OFFICER DEVELOPMENT
Lt Col Davanna explains in brief the process of becoming an ACF Officer. It’s not as daunting as it may seem.
MULTI TERRAIN PATTERN
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At last! It has arrived. Now being slowly rolled out, the new issue kit look and feels fantastic. Take a good look.
COMMANDANTS INTERVIEW
Now Col Turner has been in post for a little while, we ask him for his thoughts and aspirations as Commandant of LNR ACF
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AREA BRIEFINGS
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A COMPANY
A Coy have been up to lots of training lately. Learn about their field weekend at Thetford earlier this year.
B SQUADRON
B Sqn have been busy. We focus on their APC training and testing weekend held at Yardley Chase in early 2013.
C (TIGER) COMPANY
C Company are at their best when they are in the field Take a look at what they got up to on their field weekend.
D COMPANY
REGULAR HEADS UP - LISTEN IN A summary of general ACF issues. Make sure you take notes.
THE BRIEFING ROOM
You will find some important dates for your diary here, make sure you take note and don’t miss out.
POSTER BOY
Advance warning for an exciting exercise for early 2014. Don’t miss out.
D Coy are in a period of transition. Read some of what they have been up too lately.
E COMPANY
E Coy have had a varied training package over the past few months. Turn to page 24 to find out more.
F SQUADRON
F Sqn seem to be the public face of LNR ACF. From civic dinners to guard of honour. Setting the example?
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COMMAND AND SIGNAL STAND TO Issue 1 Summer 2013 is published yearly from July 2013. For your copy call LNR Headquarters on:
Editorial
0116 2779701
Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Army Cadet Force, Tigers Road, South Wigston, Leics, LE18 4WS E-mail: ao@lnr-acf.com
Editor in Chief: Col N H Turner TD Editor: Captain P Davanna CEO: Lt Col R Breeze
LNR ACF Command Staff: Deputy Commandant Non Military Training: Lt Col M Davanna Deputy Commandant Military Training: Lt Col I Walton Deputy Commandant PR and Marketing: Lt Col R Breeze County Training Major: Major K O’Brien A Company: Major C Doyle B Squadron: Major T Bierne C Company: Major P Watson D Company: Captain T Turner E Company: Major I Bradbury F Squadron: Major I Flamson
Cover picture: Courtesy of ACF Marketing Acknowledgments: Special thanks the Army Cadet magazine for the special feature on page 29 and to ACF Marketing for the Questions and Answers on page 18. CVQO office for their contribution on pages 4 and 5.
No part of STAND TO may be reproduced in any form in whole or in part without the prior permission of LNR ACF Headquarters. While every reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy, LNR ACF is not responsible for any errors or omissions nor will accept any liability for any loss or damage, howsoever caused, resulting from the use of STAND TO.
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For the latest information on LNR ACF visit lnracf.co.uk
MESSAGE FROM
COL TURNER
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t was with absolute delight that I took over as Commandant of Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Army Cadet Force in October 2012. I am certain that I am taking over a county that is in very good health and I would like to thank our previous Commandant, Col Steve Davies for steering the ship so well. I realise that I take over at a time of huge change not only in the ACF, but our armed forces as well. As our troops return from overseas, it is inevitable that there will be an impact on cadet training. More on that on page 30. This past year has seen significant changes in the way in which the ACF do business. After a long consultation period, the new adult induction training has been introduced, this will ensure that we will have new instructors who will be better prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead of them. The APC syllabus is changing too, map and compass is being phased out, to be replaced with the new navigation training package. For senior cadets, the new Cadet Force Instructional Technique is replacing Method of Instruction, and with the imminent introduction of the new Fieldcraft and Tactics handbook, the future of the ACF is looking very promising. This first issue of STAND TO will help you understand the changes and how they will impact you. Happy Reading. Nick Turner.
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WHAT IS
CVQO?
The Cadet Vocation Qualifications Organisation (CVQO) is designed to help ACF instructors and cadets gain recognised vocational qualifications. Why not give it a go?
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ver the past few years, CVQO has recognised the need for an educational opportunity for younger cadets, who for various reasons may leave the cadet forces after a couple of years. CVQO has introduced a bespoke BTEC Level 1 qualification in Teamwork, Personal Skills and Citizenship to fulfil that need. The BTEC Level 2 Diplomas in Public Services, Music and Engineering have been very popular and have provided real benefits to CVQO’s learners in further education and employment, as well as encouraging young people to stay on as a cadet and then hopefully as an adult volunteer. The Level 1 qualification provides an excellent introduction to vocational learning for 13-15 year olds. The qualification is delivered alongside their existing cadet force syllabus in much the same way as the current Level 2. There is no additional work or resources required as the qualification has been designed
to complement and enhance the existing cadet awards. Assessment is very practical and is mostly through observation and questioning, following the existing cadet syllabus. CVQO’s initial Level 1 trials in London and the North West have been particularly successful with young people and have drawn favourable comments from educators and schools. CVQO is expanding its portfolio. For ten years, the education charity has been providing cadets aged 16 and over, the unique chance to earn valuable vocational and management qualifications for their activities with the Ministry of Defence sponsored cadets across the UK. During a recent Level 1 BTEC project with Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force, over 70 cadets, through generous funding, took the qualification and passed. Lieutenant Colonel Glyn Potts, Deputy Commandant of Greater Manchester ACF and Assistant Head teacher at Newman College in Oldham, said,
STAND TO | SUMMER 2013 | 5 WE LOVE IT
Cadets up and down the country are giving their thumbs up to CVQO. LNR are very active so don’t miss out, it will help you more than you know.
“The Level 1 BTEC offers a credible benefit for all involved. In a time when personalisation and pathways play such an important role; the Level 1 offers young people of all abilities the opportunity to achieve, progress and celebrate a spring board to future success.” As a charity, CVQO relies on a variety of sources for financial support. While our work for young people aged 16 and over is maintained well, we receive no funding for the Level 1 BTEC and must source support locally in order to offer this opportunity to the younger cadets. CVQO has two dedicated fund-raisers who are able to offer assistance and advice with fundraising initiatives to ACF Counties, ATC Wings and Sea Cadet Areas. Funding for current projects has come from many different sources including local councils, local charities and units fundraising themselves. A recent project in Kent was supported by the local Police and was deemed so successful by them that
they have found another sponsor for 40 more young people. Clinton Riley, Head of Development at CVQO and the person responsible for sourcing funding for the Level 1 BTEC, has seen the success of the qualification first-hand. “This qualification accredits the essential skills that an employer is looking for when recruiting a young person, focusing on teamwork, personal skills and citizenship. It will assist young people into the world of employment and will also assist them to play a greater part in their communities and society.” To learn more about the CVQO-led Level 1 BTEC qualification in Teamwork, Personal Skills and Citizenship, visit www.cvqo.org You can also follow Level 1 developments on Twitter using @ CVQOL1. LNR ACF has a dedicated CVQO Officer - 2Lt Walding. If you are interested then see your DC first. They will then make contact and set the wheels in motion. For advice and assistance with local fundraising for the Level 1 BTEC contact fundraising@cvqo.org.
CVQO TEST CASE herome Donaldson, 16, was one of the first to complete a Level 1 BTEC in Teamwork, Personal Skills and Citizenship with CVQO. Sherome’s future is bright, with options including an apprenticeship with British Gas or a course in electronic engineering at college, but having experienced a difficult few years, things could have been a lot different. Family problems led to Sherome leaving home, followed by periods of not going to school and living on the streets. He then joined the army cadets. Sherome has taken advantage of the opportunities available to cadets and was one of 50 deserving young people chosen to enrol for the CVQO-led BTEC Level 1 in Teamwork, Personal Skills and Citizenship. The course develops life skills to improve employability in the future, including encouraging a sense of community responsibility, problem solving, teamwork and careers support. This sort of vocational training is a different way to learn and works well for many young people for whom the academic route has been unsuccessful. “I would definitely recommend it to anyone else who might be offered the same opportunity,” said Sherome. Already he is looking for new opportunities and is now keen to go onto the CVQO-led BTEC Level 2 in Public Services. He is very grateful for the support of CVQO, recognising that these extra qualifications could make all the difference to his future.
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You can gain real life accredited qualifications from Edexcel, ILM and City and Guilds.
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MASTER CADET
ORDERS PREP
Extracting and delivering orders was a major part of the course . We were expected to know this subject inside out.
Master Cadet Report – Staff Sergeant Dyson A Coy LNR ACF Date: 7th - 12th April 2013 Location: CTC Frimley Park OBS COURSE
Frimley Park is a wonderful place, but please remember to keep your mouth shut - or you could end up being the demonstrator.
threshold - now I would be staying in a place that’s silver service, 3 meals a day with actual bed sheets, a mattress and duvets and which is cleaned by maids, I knew this would be a quality week!
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SUNDAY: ARRIVAL Master Cadet to me has always been my top cadet goal which, from rumours is almost near enough impossible to pass, but by achieving this status I would be able to show that I have completed everything in the syllabus and therefore would leave me at the top of the pile in my Company and therefore become a candidate for the appointment of Company Sergeant Major. I was aware that I would be fortunate to be taking 4 fellow LNR NCO’s (S/Sgt Cale, S/Sgt Connell & Sgt Milne) with me so I wouldn’t have to worry about being completely without friends. This has not been my first major event where I have had to
make my own way there via a train with an issued rail warrant. However the only route available from my local rail station would leave me at Farnborough North rather than the main station which turned out was a mile hike with a fully loaded Bergan, webbing and two suit holders (challenge accepted). Naturally after this first hurdle had been overcome I found transport to CTC with one of my old colleagues from SCIC. Once we had all arrived we had a brief in which we were split into squads: RED, BLUE, GREEN and BLACK. Typically the four of us from LNR were equally placed in separate teams. (Myself with green sqd.) The main house at the Cadet Training Centre is quite stunning, considering only master cadets will be accommodated within its
MONDAY: GETTING OUR WAR FACES ON! We were dropped into our brief after our first full English breakfast in which they kicked off the training wheels and threw us straight into Section Attack work where we repeatedly attacked sections of a woodland plateau. This also consisted of battle preps, Quick Battle Orders, and precisely coordinated and executed fire movements with use of pyrotechnics. I took the roles of IC, 2IC and enemy. After Lunch we assembled for a Course Photograph. This was later followed by a skill at arms recap and planning our lessons for the following day. TUESDAY: GETTING OUR BRAIN IN GEAR! Tuesday was more of a mental challenge where we were bombarded with an overwhelming
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amount of knowledge, this included a Sandhurst scenario paper in which we had to mount a rescue team and medical evacuation in a foreign land which was becoming politically unstable and overrun with hostile forces, presenting our lessons to the class by the book and formal written orders and extractions in which we had to extract more than one set for good practice. We were also expected to give a detailed set of orders to present rather than the usual bullet point approach. WEDNESDAY: GETTING IN TROUBLE! Wednesday was by far the most demanding day as the training programme managed to span twice the length of Tuesday. We were to do a couple of final parade rehearsals and then break down for PT (Physical Training) by undertaking a squad run then a log run around the park’s premises.
Thinking that was too easy I got cocky and was eager to do more, to my regret I was selected to demonstrate a run through of the obstacle course. Later that day we were required to do section orders and prep for an ambush just after dusk. I was designated as a scout with nothing but a small laminated map that illustrated a lake blocking my direct approach. Just to make this more of a challenge, my squad was dropped approximately 2-3 miles from the objective in dense woodland in which the canopy blocked the view to the North Star and any useful land marks in which to orientate a map. Thinking back to my training on 4 star I have a lot to thank Captain Davanna for passing on his skills of dead reckoning and calculating distance accurately on the march. By successfully applying these skills and remaining under stealth we occupied the ambush site
THURSDAY: KITTING UP TO IMPRESS! After the lack of sleep from the ambush and attempting to acquire a care package from a tactical pizza van, the squads were rather withdrawn when it came to command tasks as well as more parade rehearsals. We were also made aware of gaining a BTEC Level 2 in Leadership after gaining status and writing a report of our adventures in the week away. That night we were to attend a formal dinner in which were once again served a candle lit meal with silver service. From this, much conversation was made with plenty of banter being thrown around. We made a toast to Her Majesty the Queen and to the Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip. FRIDAY: ONE FINAL PUSH! Final sequence orders were delivered in preparation for the final attack. I took up the role of 2IC, the final attack was to take place across a deforestation area that included bogged down ditches for cover and irrigation ditches, this meant lots of running through cover and getting fully mucked in. After a sigh of relief that it was over we returned all stores and thoroughly cleaned the rifles. We then managed to hit the showers and get ready for the final parade. After passing out we were interviewed and given our course results. I had achieved a 3 month deferral which is average. Over all I am very pleased with myself and it is one of the most worthwhile courses I have ever been able to attend. It has taught me a lot about myself and I would recommend it to my future successors in A Coy.
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A COMPANY
BRIEFING
It’s been a busy year for A Company. New adult appointments and lots of cadets, here are some highlights from recent months. hey say that a change is as good as a rest good advise for A Company. With the departure of CSMI Walding and Company Second-in-Command Captain Turner, it is now time for other adult instructors to ‘step up to the plate’. It is with great relief that a new Company Sergeant Major Instructor has been appointed - SMI Entwistle has moved from Training Sergeant Major to take up the vacant role of CSMI. In other news, A Company held their first major training weekend of 2013 at Thetford over the weekend of 19-21 April. This was a field training weekend where everyone involved would put their newly gained fieldcraft knowledge to the test.
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Field training remains one of the most popular things that any cadet can do. Just ask them! For some it was their first ever Company weekend, this is always a bit of shock to new recruits, getting up early, eating food that they may not like and working very long hours. All part of the cadet experience! For others it provided the opportunity to practice and share their know how, swap ideas and meet up with old friends. Ask any cadet and they will say that this is one of the best type of weekends in the year - so long as the weather is good and they get enough sleep!
ENEMY NEARBY
A Coy cadets keep a look out for the enemy. They were last spotted near our basha area. They must be close
Salamanca Detachment until three years ago when he left to join the Royal Air Force Fire & Rescue Salamanca cadets recently Service. He is now based at welcomed back Senior RAF Marham, Kings Lynn, Aircraftsman (SAC) and gave a presentation Jonathon Tilley, a former on his role as a Crash Fire detachment cadet and fighter as well as giving Company Sergeant Major. SAC Tilley was a cadet with advice to any cadets
FORMER CADET VISITS SALAMANCA DETACHMENT
looking for a career within the Tri Services. SAC Tilley said, “The job may require you to work under extreme and sometimes dangerous conditions. Accordingly, Firefighter training is physically and mentally demanding. You will also receive professional
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ENEMY APPROACHING
It’s difficult to tell them apart with the sun in our eyes - very clever approach by the enemy scout. What’s the password?
Cadet Olivia Powell was training with 1 Platoon (1 Star Cadets). “ I really enjoy attending my detachment and A Company training weekends as it gives me the opportunity to do things that I can’t do elsewhere”. She added, “this was my first time on exercise and sleeping out under a basha. Although it was a cold night, the activities made the weekend exciting and fun. My favourite part was the
KEEP SMILING
Olivia Powell looking clean and happy - this was her first time under a basha and she lived to tell the tale! See you at annual camp
training in fire fighting skills and learn how to use specialist equipment such as breathing apparatus and cutting and lifting equipment. The cadets were able to get hands on with some of the hardware and protective equipment which included various
hoses, foam making branches, thermal imaging equipment, fire helmets and combat body armour used whilst in operational environments like Afghanistan. They were then challenged to compete in ‘Fire suit changes’ getting in and out of protective
suits and completing a fire ‘hose roll’, running out a hose and rolling it back up in the quickest time!! The cadets from Salamanca detachment had a fantastic evening and enjoyed welcoming back a ex member of the detachment. Come and visit us again soon!
anticipation just before we ambushed the enemy platoon as it was the first time I have fired blank rounds. I am really looking forward to camp in August”. So it was another very successful training weekend for A Company, Area Commander, Major Doyle was delighted with the effort of both his staff and cadets. “In what was a dry but very cold weekend, everyone had a great time”.
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B SQUADRON
BRIEFING
B Squadron visited Yardley Chase to conduct APC training and testing. A busy weekend lay in store. n Friday 19th April 2013, 85 cadets from B Squadron made there way to Yardley Chase Weekend Training Centre (YCWETC) for B Squadron’s first Priority Weekend of 2013. As they arrived they were allocated a bed space and told to organise their kit and equipment before a welcome briefing from the Officer Commanding, Major Beirne and a safety brief from the Training Officer, Lt Calver. After being split down
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Our senior cadets got to play with a local Army Reserve unit. They were tested to the extreme. into their training groups, the cadets received briefings from their Platoon Commanders who introduced them to the instructors that would be working with them throughout the weekend. The morning came around a little quickly for
the Senior Cadets as they were up and out of camp before breakfast to liaise with the TA Unit on the area. The remainder of the cadets were awoken sleepy eyed and stumbled to a cooked breakfast of bacon, sausages, eggs and beans. Following breakfast the cadets were given a little time to wake up and tidy their accommodation before the eagle eyed SSMI, backed up by the OC, conducted a room inspection. Once they were given the all clear the cadets departed for training. The Squadron would be split into training groups according to ability, this provides the best way for cadets to progress through the syllabus. Subjects taught and tested were: skill at arms, map and compass, drill and turnout, first aid and fieldcraft. Lots of revision ensued and
CHUFFED
A great weekend as displayed by some very happy cadets. Strike a pose - it’s one for the photo album.
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SQN HQ
One of the rare moments together, Sqn HQ pose for the camera. Smiles all round as it was a great weekend.
REHEARSAL Time spent rehearsing is never wasted. Cadets take instruction on how to engage the enemy position.
After some refresher training in camp on Saturday morning, it was time to move out to the training area. Basha building lessons, cooking in the field and duties of a sentry were the focus of the afternoon. As night fell the cadets moved into night training and were shown techniques on how to observe objects at night before stopping for a warm cup of tea and settling down for some sleep in the basha’s they had constructed earlier that day.
2*FIELD TRAINING
The Basic training group stayed in camp all weekend to give them a chance of passing the tests.
HELP ME
First aid training is an essential part of the APC syllabus. Realistic training will help if you ever need these skills for real.
1* FIELD TRAINING
those who were thought to be of a high enough standard were then tested during the weekend. Saturday evening provided the opportunity for most of the Squadron to get out onto the training area and find then engage the enemy. This was more difficult than was first thought, in the end, a large portion of cadets were tasked with securing the emergency runway. This then had the effect of drawing out the enemy who were then given a swift lesson on just how good B Squadron cadets are.
The aim for the Two Star training group was to give them advanced lessons in fieldcraft, they should be up to it! They spent Saturday morning in camp before moving out on their map and compass route. Once in their harbour location, it was time for more advanced training. Evening meal was dealt with then onto the night activities. Face to face engagements with the enemy followed and it was hard to tell who had the upper hand.
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ith the build-up to annual camp in full swing, it was off to Swynnerton Training Camp for C (Tiger) Coy, for their pre- camp weekend. As we arrived in Swynnerton there was definitely something in the air, you could say you could almost taste the atmosphere as we were introduced to our home for the next 48 hours of full on training and testing. It wasn’t the Ritz, but bunker 6 was dry and warm. Saturday morning and, after breakfast and squadding, it was into the field we went. The 3 star group had already left for their harbour area on Friday night.
C COMPANY W AWESOME!
Once you have passed your skill at arms test, you get the chance to fire the weapon system. Exciting times.
BRIEFING
C (Tiger) Company are renowned for their knowledge and expertise on all things fieldcraft. Was Swynnerton Trg Area up to it?
STAND TO | SUMMER 2013 | 13 HERE WE ARE The enemy prepare to engage the friendly forces. Make sure you get your ear protection on first. The TSA will not be happy!
LISTEN IN
Briefings are very important on any weekend. Make sure you listen in as the enemy could be very close.
I was involved with the Basic and 1Star training group and for most of them it was their first weekend away with the company, let alone sleeping under canvas. For the 1 Star testing group it was a weekend full of skill at arms and fieldcraft testing, and for the 2 Stars it was training and testing on section battle drills and fire control orders. Saturday evening saw all the star groups come
a wall of controlled fire from the 1 Stars. With the ambush sprung and after a lengthy fire fight all went quiet again - well almost! The 1 Stars still had one more job to do; they were tasked with setting up an observation post on an enemy position who were being anything but quiet. With all intelligence gained it was C Company back to the bunker for a hot drink and a de-brief. Then love field training. everyone’s favourite game of It’s what they are ‘where’s my basha’. passionate about. Sunday morning and the dreaded weapon cleaning They have a and final testing, then off to fearsome reputation. the obstacle course for a final together in a full company run and when we returned it exercise and as the last light was a welcome sight to see all of day failed, and the 2 Stars the stores loaded and a piping advanced across open ground hot container meal waiting. the 1 Stars had a nice little During final parade, surprise for them. Quietly we witnessed the official the 2 Stars crept across the handover of the cadet CSM’s ground only to be met with pace stick from cadet CSM Ward to cadet CSM Ladd. CSM Ward has now left to join the army hoping to pass out into the Royal Anglian Regiment. His long cadet career in the ACF has been exceptional. We wish him all the very best and we hope he will come back and visit us. All in all another very successful weekend with a lot of very tired but happy cadets. Swynnerton - you were dope! IN SAFE HANDS CSM Ward hands over the pace stick to CSM Ladd. After a long and distinguished cadet career, it can be sad to leave the ACF. It happens to us all.
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HEADS UP LOOK IN
Things are changing very fast in the Army Cadet Force. New training techniques are being introduced that will raise the standard. Are you on board? or over 20 years, the ACF syllabus has remained largely unchanged. ACF instructors new and old know the ‘old ways’ inside
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out. Senior cadets too are very familiar with the ways of ACF training. So what will happen when big changes are introduced? Over the coming months, LNR will adopt various policy and syllabi
changes to reflect the more modern, forward thinking Army Cadet Force - a cadet force for the 21st Century. Every instructor will need some update training to enable them to become familiar with the changes.
Some senior cadets will have to change their ways: don’t panic, you will enjoy it! Featured below are some of the latest changes, we hope you will agree, they look and sound fantastic. Happy days.
NEW NAVIGATION
CFIT BEING TAUGHT
one is the old ‘map and compass’ syllabus, replaced with a fresh, easily understood training method that will engage everyone in the dark art of navigation. Starting with all new cadets, the navigation package will be rolled out over the next 12 months.
on’t know what CFIT is? Its the new Cadet Force Instructional Technique, replacing the now largely defunct Method of Instruction. CFIT is based on best practice from civilian teaching methods, every cadet who attends SCIC will be taught this.
ADULT INDUCTION
FIELDCRAFTTACTICS
undamental changes have been introduced in the way in which new Cadet Force Adult Volunteers are introduced into the ACF, how they are taught and assessed. Training can take as long as 24 months. Turn to page 19 to find out more.
rguably the most exciting change to the syllabus, the new Fieldcraft and Tactics handbook has been issued. At nearly 350 pages, it updates some areas and introduces brand new subjects. Fancy Training in Built up Areas (TIBUA)? Well now we can.
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ANNUAL CAMP
2013
SMILES ALL ROUND
The end of camp parade is a great way of rounding off the week. After a dress rehearsal, it’s time for the real thing in front of the VIP’s
t’s almost that time of year once again, the time where you get to spend a week (or two) away from home, without your parents nagging you to get off your games console, switch off Facebook and Twitter and get that thing you call a bedroom tidy....hang on a minute, instead of your parents, it’s that strict adult instructor getting
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On one of the biggest and most heavily used training areas in the UK, LNR will embark on a two week odyssey. you up waaaay too early, marching you to breakfast and insisting that you have a spotless ‘bedroom’. Best of all, you have paid for the privilege! Annual camp is a place where you will be told what to do, when to do it, and sometimes, how to do it. It’s also a place where you will meet new people, make new friends and gain memories that you will remember for a very long time.
Annual camp is a very special place to be, only those that have attended can fully understand... This year, LNR ACF will spend two weeks in Otterburn Camp, Northumberland. Like many other MOD establishments it promises good accommodation, great in camp training facilities and a training area that is said to be one of the very best in the United Kingdom.
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Otterburn Camp oasting the second largest live firing range in the country, Otterburn Camp has been used for military training since 1911. Otterburn training area consists of over 60,000 acres of land and has the largest impact area in the UK. Approximately 29,000 acres is set aside for dry training. Some 30,000 soldiers use the area each year and may spend several weeks training there. There are several camps around the training are which can accommodate a maximum of 1,600 visiting troops, at any one time. The wide variety of terrain provides a realistic environment for British and NATO soldiers to train with the latest infantry weapons, artillery and helicopters. There are two main live firing range areas at Otterburn for artillery, demolitions, all infantry
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weapons and restricted armoured vehicle firing. Fighter aircraft and helicopters also practice ground attack firing, and there are parachute dropping zones.
Otterburn History Otterburn Ranges has one of the greatest concentrations of archaeological and historic remains in the north of England. The archaeological and historic remains date from the Prehistoric, Roman, Medieval and later periods and include burial cairns, Roman roads and marching camps, bastles, farmsteads, lime-kilns and military remains. There are even some World War 1 training trenches still clearly visible. Most of the remains are out of bounds to troops but can still be seen on the ground, incorporated into an exercise scenario, they can once again be brought back to life. Keep your eyes open and see how many you can spot.
Otterburn Camp
THERE IT IS
Extremely close to Scotland, you might even get to see Hadrian’s Wall. Its a long journey on the coach.
LIVE FIRING
Pass your weapon handling test and you could be firing live ammunition on one of the many ranges in Otterburn.
Otterburn Access
Like most training areas, Otterburn operates under MOD bylaws but the general public are allowed access. They can drive along the military roads and so long as there is no live firing, civilians can cycle, ride, walk and climb quite freely. Otterburn
is a very popular place for civvies. Remember, they are not the enemy!
Then there are the sheep, thousands and thousands of them. There are 31 active farms on the training area but the sheep are not fenced in, instead they have been ‘hefted’ (trained) into grazing in a specific area. Lets hope they don’t wander into your basha!
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Camp Overview or those of you who are new to the Army Cadet Force, lets make one thing clear: Annual Camp will be an amazing experience. You will be at times very tired, hungry, cold, wet, excited, nervous, proud, the list goes on. But what will you actually be doing? For those who attended last year, you will recall that LNR decided to take a different approach to camp from normal. Out went the traditional Company/Squadron training and in it’s place came Cadre training. Cadre training is designed to cater for a specific star level. This means that you could end up spending annual camp being trained by adults who are unfamiliar to you, in a Company/Squadron that you may not have seen before. But you should not worry, all will be fine. Each Cadre will have it’s own training programme tailored for the training needs of the cadets it is servicing. You will have a ‘shakedown’ day, this will refresh you in some of the skills that you may not have practiced in a while and there will be a skills/training day learning new stuff from the syllabus. For some, you will be given the opportunity to fire live
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Three Star Training
Unlike last year, there will be a dedicated Three Star Training Cadre. Those who have recently passed Two Star will be eligible to attend. An exciting and hard week lays ahead, so don’t miss out.
HAWKHIRST
A great place for adventure training, to try something new.
ammunition on one of the many ranges, and for everyone, there comes arguably the highlight of camp - the field training exercise (FTX). Most of you will be on exercise for two days, testing you to your limits in fieldcraft, skill at arms, living in the field, and general
Keep an eye out on our web site for all the latest information on camp 2013. If you are a senior cadet you could get to go for two weeks.
Three Star Testing
So you think you are ready for the biggest test of your cadet service? If so, get your name on the Three Star Testing Cadre. No messing, be prepared or you might be caught out.
exercise skills. Lets hope the weather is kind. Everyone will get to sample the delights of adventurous training at Hawkhirst Scout Camp. Hawkhirst is situated on the shore of Kielder Water - the site of the largest man made lake in Europe surrounded by the largest forest in England. There will be canoeing, kayaking, sailing, raft building, high ropes, zip wire, biking and a forest trail. Some of these activities are optional but could be organised by your cadre staff. This is just a sample of what to expect at Annual Camp, as with all camps, there may be some surprises, so lets go with a sense of excitement and anticipation.
Four Star Cadre
A slightly different cadre from before, you will have the chance to ‘dip in and out’ of the modular based course. Several two day modules will operate over two weeks, you can then have some time with your Coy/Sqn.
Gold DofE Exped
They have been practicing for most of the year, it’s now time for the real thing.. There will be a Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition running over week one of camp. A mix of cadets and adults. Good luck.
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ANNUAL CAMP YOUR QUESTIONS Annual Camp is a very large event to organise. For lots of cadets it will be their first one. Here we have tried to answer some of the most commonly asked parental questions.
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How do the cadets get to camp?
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By coach. All are fully fitted with seat belts and there are supervising adults in every vehicle. We collect cadets from a central pick up point.
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Who looks after the cadets during camp?
Many of the same people they know from detachment evenings and county activities back at home. There are male and female members of staff available at all times. They are all volunteers drawn from all walks of
life,and with a wealth of valuable experience. They have all undergone Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks and are fully trained for their ACF role.
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Where do they stay?
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We take over one of the Army’s hutted camps and associated military training areas. Most nights are spent in the huts but cadets also spend either 48 or 96 hours sleeping out in the field often using improvised shelters.
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Do boys and girls sleep in the same accommodation?
No! They have separate accommodation and separate bathroom facilities, all under appropriate adult supervision.
Am I able to contact my child whilst they are at camp?
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It can prove somewhat difficult to speak to your child during the normal training day. We will issue a telephone number which you can use in emergency’s. A message can be left and your child will be allowed to call you back when they are free. Of course, we will contact you if there are any problems.
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What if my child is ill or homesick?
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The well being and safety of the young people in our care is our top priority. We have medical staff and a chaplain with pastoral responsibilities on camp with us, as well as access to a local GP and NHS hospital facilities should the need arise.
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How much will camp cost?
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For one week the cost will be £55, rising to £75 for those eligible to stay for two weeks. This includes all food, accommodation and transport.
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What can I do to help things go smoothly?
You can help a lot by ensuring that all the necessary forms are completed and medical details provided to us in good time. If you have any questions or concerns, please discuss them now with your child’s Detachment Commander.
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SPECIAL FEATURE
ADULTS UNDER INSTRUCTION
The new induction packages are designed to teach new adults all about the Army Cadet Force
NEW ADULT TRAINING
The ACF is on a big recruiting drive, we are encouraging more and more ‘civvies’ to join us. But how will they be prepared for life as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer? ecoming an adult instructor in the Army Cadet Force requires a huge leap of faith, does the potential instructor fully realise what they are letting themselves in for, and will the current ACF cadets and instructors like what they see? The journey to becoming a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer (CFAV) was in the past, quite simple. You would apply to join, attend an
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interview and then be put through your paces on a small scale ‘selection’ weekend. If you were successful, you would be offered a place and then posted to a detachment. Within the first two years you would then need to attend a week long induction course, pass this course and you would earn your stripes. Quite straightforward. Well things have change significantly. Over the past few years, the ACF Training and Development
Team (TDT) have had a good look at the way in which new CFAV’s were recruited and trained. Their findings were surprising and the changes were wholesale. The result has led the ACF to adopt a whole new approach in how we train potential new adults. Starting in March 2013, LNR ACF for the first time, rolled out the new Adult Induction Courses, there are now 3 courses and two modules to be completed within the first two years of service. The courses aim to better educate and train new adult instructors to enable them to be more prepared for life as a CFAV. It’s hard work, but will it work?
So far the course has been really enjoyable.. I have been given lots to think about.
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DRILL TIME
For some, this is the first time that they would have done any footdrill. Every new adult will be taught drill from the APC syllabus, regardless of experience.
The first thing that is noticeable when there are a new bunch of potential instructors is how varied in experience they are. Some are former cadets, one or two may have had military experience, there are even some teachers and not forgetting those who have very little experience or knowledge of the ACF. All candidates will first attend a Familiarisation and Assessment weekend. This is a ‘getting to know you’ course, they are introduced to the ACF, they will be formally interviewed and have some team building sessions. Successfully complete this course, then its on to phase two training. Phase two training is where the big changes have taken place. All new adults will have to complete three Induction courses, Basic,
Intermediate and Advanced. Each course is designed in line with the APC syllabus, with lots of bolt on’s designed specifically to better inform the new instructor. Then there are the two mandatory modules: First Aid training and Shooting and Coaching. All of this training can take up to 24 months to complete, the instructor will only be promoted into the ranks on successful completion of all of the courses. In the meantime they are now known as Probationary Instructors (PI’s). The Basic Induction Course follows the same syllabus as the Basic Star Level for cadets. No matter what experience, every Probationary Instructor must go through this. They will be taught how to wear a uniform, badges of rank, basic foot drill, all of
OUR W OPINION The current crop of PI’s let you know what they think so far....
the fundamentals needed to be part of the ACF. They are also introduced to the new navigation syllabus and Cadet Force Instructional Technique (CFIT). Red Book introduction, risk awareness, child protection are also covered in the 62 separate training sessions that have to be delivered. Once they have passed the final assessment, they are then authorised to teach up to Basic level in the ACF. The Intermediate Course builds upon the Basic. This time they follow the One Star Syllabus with a huge emphasis on Skill At Arms and the Weapon Handling Test. They are told about Youth Leadership and more on Training Safety and Risk. This course is a massive 77.5 sessions of instruction. So you can see that they will have a depth of knowledge not afforded to previous new instructors. Successfully complete this course and they are now able to teach up to One Star level. The Advanced Course will require all PI’s to attend a week long course at Brigade level. This course follows in part, the Two Star syllabus. Over another 68 sessions, they will cover drill and turnout, navigation, skill at arms and fieldcraft, with the final CFIT lessons also delivered. PI’s will be able to teach some of the Two Star syllabus once they have passed this course. The new PI’s will be the best trained new adults the ACF has seen. With over 200 periods of instruction before they are promoted, they have been given a fantastic start to their ACF service. Exciting times ahead.
e are very aware that this is a new era in ACF Adult Training and that we are the advance party in this. So far the course has been really enjoyable and I’ve most definitely been given lots to think about, my one recommendation would be to allow potential adults to spend some time at a detachment before going through the process to get an understanding of how the ACF works.
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FIRST AID MODULE
SHOOTING MODULE
NAVIGATION TRAINING
ll ACF instructors are mandated to be first aid qualified. New CFAV’s will have to pass a nationally recognised course before they are allowed to attend the Advanced Induction Course. The first aid course can be conducted locally an efficient way to deliver training.
hooting coaching is a skill in which CFAV’s were never properly trained. New CFAV’s will have to pass a Basic Shooting and Coaching Course. This will enable them to effectively coach cadets how to shoot correctly. Less wasted ammo and better marksmen will result.
ever give an officer a map! That’s how the story goes, and the same could be said for a lot of other adult instructors. The new navigation course is included in all three induction courses, new CFAV’s will be taught the same syllabus as cadets, no excuses for getting lost!
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SHOOTING
Once new adults are familiar with the weapon system, they will be given the opportunity to practice live firing. Starting with the Scorpion Air Rifle.
For me though the whole experience has been a positive one and I hope that I can develop the skills required to be a good instructor and be able to display the passion that our instructors do to enable me to motivate the cadets. I think I’m only just discovering the full meaning of the cadet motto ‘Inspire to Achieve’ but then this is just the start of the journey. Mrs R Tippett. The adult training course delivers a huge amount of information on a wide range of subjects.
Those of us on the course come from a variety of backgrounds. All of us have an element of the course that we are already familiar with to some extent, but the lessons are still interesting and engaging. The areas of the course that are completely new to some of us start at the right level and progress quickly. The practical elements of the course are challenging yet enjoyable and enable the group on the course to become more of a team. Ms G Leggett.
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D COMPANY BRIEFING
It has been a steady year for D Company, and with a new Area Commander, exciting times lay ahead. TAKE PRIDE
Cadets from Kettering detachment proudly display the cadet banner. Bellow, dreadful weather but a great day out!
wet and with a biting cold wind hardly describes just how bad it was! . T This inevitably had an effect on cadet and adult numbers and there only six team entries; however, those that turned out were full of enthusiasm and were determined to make the competition a success.
n Saturday the 23rd of March, seven cadets from Kettering detachment were joined by the sea and air cadets, to unveil a plaque dedicated to Marine William Henry Mills. William was Kettering own Cockleshell hero who had been part of operation Frankton. Operation Frankton involved canoeing into Bordeaux port in France under the cover of darkness and planting limpet mines onto supply ships belonging to the Nazi war machine. Winston Churchill himself is reported to have said that this shortened the war by 6 months, it was during this operation that William gave his life for his country. The memorial service was incredibly
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moving and what made the service more moving was seeing his two great grandchildren lay the wreath at the base of the plaque. The service was inspiring and poignant, after the sermon we were invited to tea and biscuits in the council chamber to warm up from a long spell in the cold. It was a great honour for Kettering detachment to be the only standard bearers for the service honouring a local hero.
D COY TUG OF WAR As well as deciding the County Champions, this competition is seen as the ‘Jump Start’ to our new season. Unfortunately, the weather conditions were atrocious - dark, very
Results of the competition were as follows: Girls Winners D Coy Boys Winners C Coy Runners Up D Coy County Champions 2013 - D Coy A special mention to C Company’s Boys team who were unbeaten throughout the competition! Thanks to CSMI Sean Morrow and SMI Bob Pochin, our own ToW Association qualified judges, who ran the competition well under very difficult conditions.
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LEADING FROM THE FRONT Fed up as a back seat driver? Then the Cadet Force Commissioning Board (CFCB) is where you should be heading, re-route and take the next road to Westbury. ecoming an ACF officer enables you to not only lead but gain skills for life. Officers must set tasks for CFAV’s and cadets under their command and guide them to completion. It takes a certain skill set to become an ACF Officer, a thirst for leadership, commitment, good communication skills, enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. You must not only be a self-motivator but also a motivator of others, inspiration is key. You will be the example others follow so your own personal standards and values should be of the highest degree. Obtaining a commission in LNR ACF follows a process, parts of this are standard but the majority of this process will be tailored to your requirements and self-development. Once it has been identified that you have commissioning potential you will be invited for an interview with the Deputy Commandant responsible for Officer Development. This is an informal interview to enable us to build up your profile and for you to find out what lies in store, you may also have an interview with the Becoming an Commandant at ACF officer is not this point if you wish to become an just about what under officer. you say, it’s mostly Before Westbury about what you do. our own Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (RFCA) runs a Potential Officer Selection and Training Weekend (POST) with Derbyshire, Nottingham and Lincolnshire ACF’s to give you a taste of the tasks that will face you at Westbury. The weekend mimics the CFCB, giving you the opportunity to practice techniques and use the key principles to a successful Westbury. Known as the 4 T’s, Team work, Talk up, Tempo and of course Take Part. You will receive a report with
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guidance on the areas you need to work on and a time frame of attendance at CFCB. You will receive a further interview after this and together build up a plan for development and specific requirements to give you the best chance of being selected. The road to Westbury is not easy, it is not designed to be, that in itself is a test of your commitment, but the rewards are endless and the opportunities a cadet force commission can offer are far reaching. The commission is not just a personal goal but a commitment to the cadets and CFAV’s that you want to be a part of an ever evolving ACF and to do that you need to be a part of the decision making process by leading from the front. My top tip for selection, you must ‘buy into’ the whole process. Want it enough and there is no reason why it cannot be yours. Lt Colonel Mandy Davanna Deputy Commandant (Non Military) Visit the CFCB video on LNR You Tube channel to get a taste of Westbury.
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E COMPANY BRIEFING
Once again E Company have been very busy on a varied and interesting training cycle. Anyone for dressing up? AIM TRUE
Cadets enjoy one of the many tasks on Exercise Iron Cadet. Held every year, which team will come out eventual winners?
The annual E Company Iron Cadet competition, which is run as an inter-detachment competition, was once again based at St Georges Barracks. As many of the cadets were competing in the county cross country competition the next day the competition was run over a single day rather than the customary weekend format. Each detachment can enter a maximum of two teams of four cadets of mixed star levels, allowing the younger cadets the opportunity to take part. This year saw a total of ten teams battling it out to see who would win the coveted Iron Cadet trophy which has been won for the last two years by Corby III. After the adult briefing,
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stands were set up. The cadets arrived and had their briefing about how the day was going to run and the rules for playing their joker which would double the points on the stand they decided to use it on. The decision on whether or not to play their joker had to be made before they undertook a stand, so they had to gamble on how well they thought they were going to do. The common theme on jokers seemed to be onesies! The day comprised a round robin of 9 events, which meant at any one time, one team was on a well earned break. The stands covered drill, orienteering, SAA, expedition training, command tasks, shooting, first aid, a quiz on all aspects of the APC syllabus and signals. The last event of the day
was potted sports which involved a whole series of different races with the teams competing against each other in relays, dribbling a football around cones etc. After this everyone enjoyed a curry which had been cooked by SMI Campbell whilst the scores were totalled to find this year’s winner. The team in third place consisted of three Oakham cadets and one Melton, in second place was one of the St Georges teams and the winning team this year was once again Corby III, although there was a slight twist in that the team consisted of L/Cpl Swan, L/Cpl Mason and Cdt Shields from Corby III plus Cdt Pearson from Melton. All teams are to be congratulated on their enthusiasm and performance throughout the day, irrespective of their final position. One team which didn’t come that highly placed declared as they left “that was so much fun” which just shows that it is the taking part which is important. During the day we were visited by Bart Hellyer Esq LLB, High Sheriff for Rutland, who stayed with us for well over four hours and visited all of the stands, spending time to talk to the cadets. His interest in the cadet force was very evident and many of the cadets were inspired by his motivational attitude.
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E Company on their pre-camp weekend in June. Great weather meant the cadets were able to sleep in comfort, unlike in April when there was snow on the ground.. Taking the word ‘joker’ to the extreme. Cadets on Exercise Iron Cadet get involved in all of the fun. Lets hope this joker is nicer than the one from The Dark Knight! Exercise Rolling Thunder are: Cdt Sgt Brown and Cdt Staff Sgt Sharp (Melton Mowbray), Cdt Staff Sgt Willis (Oakham),Cdt Sgt Edis and Cdt Staff Sgt Connell (Prince William School). Captain Wicks from 158 (Royal Anglian) Transport Regiment RLC came to inspect Corby lll detachment on Tuesday 23rd of April for their bi annual inspection. E Company cadets attend the parade to honour Corby soldier Lance Corporal James Ashworth. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery in Afghanistan.
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F SQUADRON
BRIEFING
F Squadron represented LNR ACF in several events this past year. They seem to be the ’go to’ Squadron in both military and civilian activities. ombat cadet is an annual competition weekend that tests the skills learned during APC training. There are representative teams from all of the counties around the country, and different organisations are also involved. This year19 teams took part and F Squadron cadets were chosen to represent Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland ACF. In order to get selected, a few of the squadrons’ top cadets were put through their paces by TSMI Ingle and SSI Bates at a squadron selection weekend. Those successful made it into the team and F squadron then had to compete against the other 5 companies/squadrons in LNR for pride of place and
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Under the leadership of Major Flamson, F Squadron are on an upward curve. Long may it continue. to go forward to represent the county. Over the course of the weekend, the cadets were moved around stands which tested their skills in a variety of subjects which included first aid, obstacle course, command task’s, fire and movement, recce patrolling, signals, movement and observation, air rifle shooting, navigation and contact drills. There was also a night navigation and a timed 5km march. It was a cold couple of nights as TSMI (double sleeping bags) Ingle woke
DREAM TEAM
Well done to the F Squadron Combat Cadet Team. A very hard weekend in which much was learned but one that will be forever remembered.
SSAFA EVENT
On Saturday April 27th, a number of Loughborough cadets were asked to attend a memorial service held at the Loughborough Carillion. The event, organised by SSAFA (Soldiers Sailors and Air force Families Association), was for families and friends
from across the country to come together and remember those lost in the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The cadets formed a guard of honour as approximately 170 SSAFA members arrived. It was a short but emotional service for those
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LOOKING SMART
F Squadron cadets look resplendent in their No 2 Dress. They were admired by all who attended the Civic Dinner.
TEAMWORK
An essential part of Combat Cadet is working together. The obstacle course is one event which will test your teamwork to the limits.
families involved. Some family members were invited to say a few words and pay their tributes before a moments silence was held. There was then a few minutes for laying wreaths and roses and the cadets were invited to take part.
up to find that the water in the Jerry cans had frozen! However, despite the weather, the team finished in the middle of the pack, and both adult staff and cadets alike had a very good weekend. Well done to all those who attended the selection weekend, and well done to the F Squadron team for doing us proud.
Guard of Honour On Friday 26th April 13, eight cadets, SSI Gilbey
The cadets were well turned out and a credit to their detachment and squadron; this was confirmed by the many positive comments and thanks received from the families and members of the public. My personal thanks to the cadets who made
the effort to attend (Cdt Cpl Langston, Cdt Burton, L/Cpl Clarke, Cdt SmallJames, Cdt Goodacre, Cdt Darke, Cdt Higgins, Cdt Bartle & Cdt Parker), to SI Beckman for her assistance and also to SSAFA for inviting us to join them, in what was a very moving service.
and SMI Gilbey of Castle Donnington detachment were once again invited to provide the Guard of Honour for the North West Leicestershire District Council’s Annual Civic Dinner, hosted at the Radisson Blue Hotel in Castle Donington. Looking extremely smart in their No 2 dress, the cadets lined the red carpet as the guests, including Major Flamson, UO and Mrs Burge and SSI Gilbert, arrived.
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THE BRIEFING ROOM Want to know what is going on in LNR over the coming months? Here is a selection of the best we have to offer. Keep a look out on your notice board for further details.
Remember to log on to our web site for all the latest info on LNR activities. lnracf.co.uk
SWIMMING COMPETITION
COUNTY NCO WEEKEND
nce again we will be calling on all you swimmers to represent your Coy/ Sqn in the County Swimming Competition. Held at Oundle pool, the best swimmers will be selected to represent teamLNR. SATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER 2013
REMEMBRANCE PARADE
alling all Detachment Commanders. You are invited to come along for progressive training. Something you are not sure about as life as a DC? WE should provide the answers. Adult first aid and the second induction weekend also taking place. 22 - 24 NOVEMBER 2013
COUNTY WEEKEND
ne of the most important dates on the cadet calendar, this is a must attend event. Remembrance Parades are a huge part of the local community and they mean so much to so many. All over the country the ACF will join forces with other cadet units, Royal British Legion sections, Cubs, Scouts, Brownies, Reserve Forces and local dignitaries. Remember: Wear Your Poppy With Pride. SUNDAY 10 NOVEMBER 2013
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weekend aimed at all ACF instructors, it will be multipurpose. Come along and be trained on the new navigation syllabus as well as CFIT. For the new induction adults, this will be the first of two training weekends. Held at Yardley Chase. 11 - 13 OCTOBER 2013
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Also check out our Facebook and Twitter accounts. Plenty of video available on our Youtube channel.
COMBAT CDT SELECTION alling all Coys and Sqns. This is your chance to show that you have the best all round fieldcraft team in LNR. Navigation, fieldcraft, first aid and command tasks are just some of the trials that you will have to complete. Who will emerge the ultimate winner? 15-16 FEBRUARY 2014
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MULTI TERRAIN PATTERN (MTP) UNIFORM Combat Smock Hood can be rolled away and held in place with a button and loop. Mesh lining under - arm vents helps with cooling. Fleece lined hand warmer pockets for use when gloves are not available. Trousers: Crotch area has reinforced section to prevent wear and tear. Thicker and more robust belt loops and no drawstring to prevent chafing from sweat and rubbing. Meshed pockets with zip on one side. Thigh pockets slanted for ease of access. Shrouded buttons to prevent snagging.
The new Multi Terrain Pattern uniform is now being rolled out. Designed for the modern soldier, how will the ACF find it? Combat Jacket collar is designed to be rolled up to keep out the rain. Shrouded rank slide to prevent snagging. Arm Pockets angled for easy entry. Blanking plates, which protect the velcro, include an area to display ACF badges. Forearm pockets fastened with velcro: this is where the Army put extra protection pads, but cadets can fit in anything they like.
The uniform that will be issued to the ACF will be no different from the Regular Army. The uniforms were originally designed for combat operations. The brassard will be replaced with a rank slide and cadet badges will be worn on the Velcro badge plate.
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ADULT PROFILE
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Yes, I am extraordinarily well
supported by the Senior Leadership Team: Deputy Commandants, Area OCs, County Training Officer and RSMI, together with the QM and other Permanent Staff. But I still have much to learn and continue to need the support and trust of the CFAVs.
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Colonel Turner became Commandant of LNR ACF in October 2012. Having now witnessed us at close quarters, we asked him on his views of the ACF, his life in the TA and his general thoughts.
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You became Commandant of LNR in October 2012. What were your initial impressions?
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A large organisation spread over a vast geographical area with a hugely committed and experienced team of CFAV’s, woefully short of Officers and an opportunity as an ‘outsider’ to bring an alternative dimension of leadership. A need to drive out our planning timelines to alleviate the impediment of making last minute decisions that place an unnecessary burden on our commanders at the lowest levels.
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So after 9 months in post, do you feel more at ease with in your role?
What are the challenges facing the ACF?
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With the withdrawal of troops from Germany and Re-basing across the UK pressure of facilities and resources will become increasingly taut. It is therefore imperative that we plan our training and activities well in advance and in good detail followed by ‘doing’ what we say we are going to ‘do’; this will impress those managing the Defence Estate and the Chain of Command by our organization skills and professionalism winning their respect and support against the odds of a low booking priority.
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Looking to the future, where do you see the ACF heading and how will that impact the Cadets and Adults of LNR? Youth features strongly on the National Political Agenda and so Land Forces and Support Command continue to provide significant resources despite enormous pressure on the MOD Budget. In these times of austerity I suspect that there will be a drive to improve the measurement of success and performance in order to ensure value for money is attained: we
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already see greater prominence on the logistic audits undertaken by the Chain of Command. Accurate and timely recording of attendance and achievement on WESTMINSTER is an on-going imperative. The link between the ACF and the Army is inseparable in the eyes of the public and therefore the preservation of the Army’s hard-won professional reputation will reinforce the need for adherence to the Safeguarding procedures, a need for total compliance with the Safe-Systemof-Training and adoption at every level of the Values and Standards of the British Army which mirror the customs of service of the ACF.
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What value do you place on the work that CFAVs do?
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The CFAV and in particular those in the Detachments deliver the ‘Cadet Experience’. Effective Detachments are at the heart of everything we do. No Detachments = No Cadets = No LNR ACF. I am enormously impressed by the dedication and commitment of so many and see numerous examples of ‘Selfless Commitment’ one of the cornerstone Values of the British Army. CFAVs must be role models at all times in countless ways to the impressionable youngsters, which we are privileged, to have in our charge.
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CFAV?
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Prior to you joining did you know what it was that was expected of a
I had a limited understanding but not a full picture of the complexity and diversity of the challenges they face on a day-today basis. I’m still not sure what the key motivating factors are that keep CFAV’s turning up.
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Looking closer to home, what do you hope to achieve whilst Commandant?
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Successfully engage with the variety of stakeholders across the vast Area of Responsibility and Training Estate in order to create the conditions to allow LNR to succeed at every level. Improve the Officer Manning, drive up APC and DofE levels/passes and balance the variety of opportunities so as not to overburden the CFAV and permanent staff.
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What are the hardest things about being Commandant?
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Changing the culture so all commanders plan ahead and respond to correspondence and returns in a timely manner. Saying ‘NO’ to good ideas because there is insufficient time and resources available to deliver the activity in a professional manner; this is also coupled with
the hard decisions when trying to rationalize activity to prevent us being too ambitious. Ensure that all CFAVs are adequately trained, stimulated and rewarded for the enormous commitment they make. Coping with the constant stream of e-mails and telephone calls with the associated demands for information and decisions is an on-going challenge. On a personal level balancing my life between LNR ACF, my Civilian Business, my Livery Company, Regimental Duties, Charitable Responsibilities and an active social life requires long days and smart
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Quick fire round.
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Favourite food: Fillet Steak First record ever bought: Terry Jacks “Seasons in the
Sun”. Favourite movie: The Italian Job Most annoying habit: Being cheerful and noisy first-thing in the morning. Football team: Derby County.
E S I C R E EX ADET C I K S 4 1 0 2 Now confirmed for next year. Keep a look out on our web site for full details. We can’t wait!
Pet hates: Bad manners, idleness and arrogance. Your biggest influence: Persuading the Divisional Commander to allow an interview to take place with John Humphries on Radio 4 when serving as the Chief Media Ops Officer in Iraq. Your biggest achievement: Commanding the Champion Company in 3 WFR for three years in succession. Any superstitions: Generally I don’t walk under ladders (mainly because someone might drop something on me!)
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Finally, anything else you would like to add?
A plea, when I ask a CFAV a question please give me the genuine answer, not what the CFAV thinks I want to hear. Also, I have no God given right to be the Commandant of LNR ACF it is an enormous privilege and responsibility and remember, like all of the readers I need to sleep, eat, drink, exercise and have fun to remain motivated.
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Tel: 01832 273150
Email: BDOundle@bulleydavey.co.uk
www.bulleydavey.co.uk I have volunteered for over thirty years within LNR ACF including cadet service, with varying roles such as Detachment Commander of Prince William School, Training Officer and Company Commander of E Company for ten years. Five years ago I was appointed Deputy Commandant responsible for the Non Military training in LNR ACF which includes Sport, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Cadet Vocational Qualification, Adventurous Training and Officer Development. The skills, leadership potential and personal development the ACF has offered me has been a hugely beneficial skill transferable into my day job where I manage an office in Oundle and Corby and look after my own portfolio of clients. In LNR ACF I am responsible to the Commandant for over 200 Officers and CFAV’s and up to 1,400 cadets. My career at Bulley Davey, Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisers, has worked alongside that of my ACF career both starting within a month of each other. The support that my firm has given me to enable me to carry out my ACF duties and volunteer work is invaluable, not only in the day to day responsibilities I have, but in 1994 allowing me to experience the National Canada Cadet Exchange as an escort officer spending six weeks in Banff climbing the glaciers, tackling the white water rapids and hiking to some of the most beautiful scenery in the Rockies. I am extremely grateful for the support that I receive. The standards and values that the ACF encompasses from the Army and from its own charter are the qualities expected not only of a good leader in the ACF but also in the workplace and the community as a whole. I believe all employers should encourage a degree of volunteering, as it enhances, motivates and inspires. Lt Colonel Mandy Davanna Deputy Commandant If you would like to sponsor our back page on the next issue of eXtreme or STAND TO and have a link to the ACF either past or present please contact the editor. Š Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Army Cadet Force 2013