Every day of this four-day camp was jam packed with activities. We began on the first day by being split into two groups and completed an expedition to Bears Wood Scout Camp. This allowed us to practice our orienteering and navigation skills. At the Scout campsite we completed a command task activity which was designed to test our knot tying abilities by designing a ‘wagon’ with barrels and logs which could transport two cadets. We then had the opportunity to test these skills by racing each other in our groups which was incredibly revealing as to who’s square lashing knots were tight enough. During the day we also got to use the new climbing wall as part of the equipment provided on site. In the evening, we had an after dark stealth activity to collect glow sticks from all over the campsite being as sneaky as possible. If you were caught moving around, the cost would be the sacrifice of several glow sticks. The team to successfully collect all of their coloured glow sticks won the activity. Over night we camped outdoors in bashers – an opportunity that hadn’t been presented on RAF section camps for a while.
In the morning, after packing up our bashers we set back out on an expedition back to Royal Russell School. Upon arriving we set off for the O2. We had such a unique opportunity of indoor skydiving at the O2 which was a fantastic consolation for the night spent under the stars in bashers. We then got to spend the night back in our own beds.
The morning of the third day we set out for the RAF Hendon Museum, which was an amazing chance to see the history of the RAF and also the development of aircraft suited for wars and fast flight. For example, the development of Fokker’s synchronisation gear which allowed the propeller to be at the front of the aircraft whilst also allowing automatic weapon fire to be shot. We also got to experience the 4D red arrows simulator where you are actually flying in the pane and got to partake in the Typhoon simulator. Both of these opportunities were otherworldly and inspirational for all of the aspiring pilots we have in our RAF section.
On the final day, we went to RIAT, which was absolutely fantastic as it was the 75th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. This meant that we got to see air displays of many different aircraft form all over the world like the U2 dragon lady. We also had a display from the Red Arrows and the Royal Air Force Falcons, who are a parachute display team, opened show. Both of which were absolutely fantastic. We also got to explore and see many aircraft parked as exhibits, even a 6th generation fighter jet. The air show was not only a highlight of the trip but also provided a fantastic opportunity to speak with a variety of RAF Service personnel and find out about their individual roles.
The RAF Section camp, whilst only being four days long, was a fantastic week full of incredible and unforgettable experiences. This camp was the last CCF activity for our two Senior NCO’s, and as they leave the CCF and move onto their next steps, we’d like to pass our thanks for the knowledge and leadership demonstrated over the last year.
Sergeant E Gardiner
