Twenty-one Army Cadets and three Cadet Force Adult Volunteers from across the United Kingdom had the incredible opportunity this summer to travel to Bavaria in Germany to complete their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition.
Their journeys began in the beautiful Allgäu region of Bavaria, situated in southern Germany and parts of Austria. After an acclimatisation day where the teams climbed the spectacular Riedberghorn mountain, the four teams settled down to plan their routes for the expedition based on their interests and what they wanted to get out of the week. As well as exploring the beautiful countryside, mountain and wilderness that Bavaria has to offer, they also chose to take in aspects of the local culture. A highlight for many of them was the opportunity to walk across a national border!
Cadets on their acclimatisation walk on the Riedberghorn mountain, and planning the routes for their expedition
During the expedition, groups had the chance to walk through the spectacular Breitachklamm gorge, climb up to the viewpoint for the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle (featured in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and allegedly the inspiration for the Disney castle), and use a cable car to explore some of the higher routes including passing the incredibly remote Bad Kissinger mountain hut. They remained self-sufficient throughout, having spent a couple of hours in the local Aldi store beforehand, picking out some local delicacies to enjoy on route!
Teams exploring the Breitachklamm Gorge, Neuschwanstein Castle, and using the cable car to explore higher mountain routes
Despite the challenging heat conditions, the teams demonstrated determination and resilience to complete their journeys by adapting their timings to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
Throughout the week, participants developed their communication, leadership and teamwork skills. They had to quickly grasp a whole new style of map, as well as coming to terms with how the heat and challenging terrain would affect their speed of movement! The teamwork, navigation and social skills they were able to develop throughout the week were all crucial to enabling a successful outcome.
The four teams on their expedition, in various locations
On the final day of the expedition, they returned to the lodge for a celebratory barbecue, which inspired moments of reflection on what was truly a life-changing experience for them. All 24 of the participants had completed their Gold DofE Expedition and were rightly proud of their achievement.
Reflecting on the expedition’s impact and success, the participants and their leaders highlighted the profound benefits of this unique experience:
Cadet Sergeant Harry Manson of 1st Battalion The Highlanders ACF, said,
“My favourite part of the expedition was getting up the hills, seeing the scenery – it’s just brilliant!”
Cadet Joy Muiruri of Queen’s and Aldenham CCF in London added,
“I really enjoyed travelling into Austria and looking at the traditions and culture of the local area”.
One of the CFAV participants, SI Emma Smyth of Cumbria ACF, commented, “I enjoyed getting up into the mountains, seeing all the different scenery, and hearing the cows and cow bells – it’s a really lovely noise when you’re walking along”.
This expedition would not have been possible without the hard work, determination and teamwork displayed by the team of 10 Cadet Force Adult Volunteers who led and supported the venture. Whether supervising or assessing a team, driving vehicles, looking after kit and minibuses, or dealing with whatever problems came their way, their input was critical to the venture’s success.
SSI Gareth McKelvey of 1st Northern Ireland Battalion ACF, one of the team assessors and drivers, said,
“I would certainly recommend to other adults to come along and help out. It’s great coming together and working with other adults from across the UK, and meeting cadets from all corners of the UK as well. It’s certainly a good experience for everyone involved”.
Expedition Lead, Lt Col Robert Lockhart, DofE Advisor for HQ Scotland, said,
“Activities like this are the pinnacle of a cadet’s career, and will remain in their memories throughout their life. Bringing cadets to an area like Bavaria gives them a unique perspective on a country and culture they may otherwise not have an opportunity to experience, and hopefully inspires in them a thirst for adventure, travel and enjoying the outdoors. We are always astounded by the cadets’ appreciation for the landscapes they see along the way. This is the second year we’ve delivered this activity, and I hope it’s something we’ll be able to continue for many more years”.
Delivering exciting and impactful activities such as this, wouldn’t be possible without financial support from the Army Cadet Charitable Trust UK and the Ulysses Trust. Their invaluable support has enabled cadets and CFAVs from across the UK to come together, develop skills and share in a truly memorable experience.
For more information or to join as a cadet or adult volunteer visit armycadets.com
