Annual Camp 2023

Annual Camp 2023 at RAF Halton: A Transformative Cadet Experience

In the summer of 2023, I had the privilege of attending the Annual Camp held at RAF Halton, an active military base. This camp was a significant milestone for cadets like myself, as it aimed to elevate our skills and capabilities, particularly in achieving higher star passes. During this two-week event, I transitioned from the Basic level to the coveted One Star status, a testament to the rigorous training and experiences I encountered.

The camp was a whirlwind of diverse activities that challenged us physically and mentally. From honing first aid skills to navigating Wendover Woods using maps, we were constantly pushed out of our comfort zones. Digital shooting simulations on computers transitioned into the real deal, as we fired Cadet A52 rifles with the guidance of experienced instructors.

One of the most unforgettable components of the camp was the Field Training Exercise (FTX), a three-day outdoor adventure. During the FTX, we crawled through fields to reach checkpoints, prepared our own food, rationed our supplies for 24-hour periods, and fetched water from jerricans delivered every 12 hours. Engaging in covert missions where we had to remain concealed in the natural surroundings added an extra layer of excitement. As if that weren’t enough, we also had to set up “bashas” (shelter sheets) under which we slept, and cleaned rifles after using blank rounds. The FTX pushed us to our limits, both physically and mentally.

The camp also offered some lighter moments, such as laser tag battles and the adrenaline-pumping gun run, where teams disassembled and reassembled a cannon while sprinting to the finish line. Watersports were a refreshing change of pace, involving paddleboarding, jumbo paddleboarding, raft building, kayaking, and canoeing. We even had to erect a tent together as a team, using only the phrase “High Morale” for communication.

The camp’s schedule varied, with intense mornings beginning as early as 5 or 6 AM, followed by more relaxed evenings during Naafi (break time). The FTX, on the other hand, kept the tension and thrill alive throughout.

My journey from Basic to One Star was marked by significant challenges, including strict uniform requirements and the pressure to pass the Weapons Handling Test (WHT) for real rifle shooting. Despite having just learned the procedures and information the day before the test, I dedicated every spare moment to revising and succeeded in securing my WHT, earning the privilege of using a real rifle.

The camp instilled valuable life lessons, such as discipline through rigorous uniform and room checks, as well as punctuality, where being five minutes early was the norm. I also noticed a remarkable sense of openness and acceptance among cadets, fostering a strong bond akin to a family or unit.

While there were no specific guest speakers or awards, the camp emphasized discipline and responsibility. We also had to maintain the base’s cleanliness through regular sweeps and litter checks.

Annual Camp 2023 at RAF Halton was a vibrant, welcoming, and strict environment that pushed me to grow and develop physically, mentally, and emotionally. It was an unforgettable experience filled with challenges, camaraderie, and lessons that will undoubtedly shape my future.