Introduction: In September, No. 1 (Minden) Company of Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force embarked on training and expeditions for Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Army Cadet Syllabus at Dunham Massey Scout Camp in Cheshire. This two-day, two-night adventure saw the participation of over 60 cadets, marking a significant milestone in their training and personal development.
The Expedition: The expedition was characterised by a mix of weather conditions. Saturday greeted the cadets with glorious sunshine, perfect for the initial stages of their journey. However, by Saturday evening, heavy rain began to fall, continuing through the night and into Sunday. Despite the challenging weather, the cadets demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, successfully completing their expedition routes.
Cadet Experience: The cadets found the experience of sleeping in tents during the rain to be surprisingly enjoyable, describing it as therapeutic. Over the course of two days, they undertook two distinct routes, showcasing their adeptness in navigation and camp craft skills. This walking expedition required cadets to share two-person tents, plan menus, purchase and cook their own food, all while exhibiting exceptional teamwork. This was made even more challenging by the rain, which was so heavy that part of the campsite became extremely boggy, presenting a hazard in the form of increased trips and falls – one of our instructors had to be taken to A&E after falling in the mud on Saturday evening, but fortunately was not seriously injured other than a case of wounded pride and was released after triage.
Personal Reflections: One cadet from Group A shared her personal challenge of carrying all her gear, noting that it caused significant strain on her shoulders and back. Yet, she, like her peers, pushed through these physical challenges, underscoring the determination and grit of the whole group.
Achievements and Skills: Throughout the expedition, the groups navigated with confidence, using maps and compasses effectively. They supported one another, correcting mistakes and providing encouragement. This environment allowed cadets from diverse backgrounds to bond, share skills, and make new friends. For many, it was their first experience of such a demanding challenge, which they embraced wholeheartedly. The cadets also had the opportunity to appreciate wildlife, including wild deer, and the scenic views of the old stately home, enhancing their appreciation of the great British outdoors.
Leadership and Supervision: Veteran SI Andrew Z expressed his satisfaction in seeing cadets learning and developing field skills, far removed from their usual distractions like mobile phones. The expedition provided a unique opportunity for 1 Minden Company, comprised of six separate detachments from the Greater Manchester Area, to come together, fostering camaraderie and mutual support.
Conclusion: A heartfelt thank you goes out to every staff member who volunteered their time and effort, supporting the cadets throughout the expedition. Their dedication and commitment were instrumental in the success of this endeavour.
The weekend’s expedition was a testament to the cadets’ resilience, teamwork, and willingness to embrace new challenges. Well done to everyone involved!
