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delivery team, the expedition aimed to share his love for AT with colleagues. Working alongside Capt (MAA) McMullen, they successfully ran Ex TIGER ALPINE BLIZZARD, taking nine RAPTCIs on a week-long training serial. With support from Army Adventurous Training Group (AATG), they used facilities in Bavaria to enable the expedition to proceed. Upon arrival, the team quickly settled in, gearing up and hitting the slopes under Sgt (SI) Burton's guidance. Despite initial struggles, with perseverance, the group progressed from literally "Bambis on ice" to confident skiers, embracing the challenge and learning new skills along the way.
PARACHUTE FOUNDATION TRAINING - CYPRUS
During a busy period at ASPT, staff members seized the chance to travel to Cyprus for Parachute Foundation Training (PFT). After arriving on Saturday, the team prioritised a night navigation to find food, enduring the long walk to and from Dhekelia Station. Following a Sunday morning camp reconnaissance, including locating essential areas like the gym and cookhouse, the team ventured to Ayia Napa, albeit off-season. Despite this, they enjoyed the sun at Nisi Beach and celebrated St. Patrick's Day with Guinness. The first day of PFT involved meeting instructors and RAF PJI Winks, along with Wing WO Paul Floyd. Classroom learning and kit distribution preceded ground training, focusing on parachute landing falls, effective door exits and emergency action drills.
After an initial jump attempt got rained off, the team settled for a famous Halloumi and bacon bap from Linda. Thursday provided a brief window for a second jump, marked by some questionable exit techniques and amusing facial expressions. Despite a few earning the prestigious good all the way (GATW) for a second time, weather
Sgt (SI) Nihell carrying the flag through Ifen
conditions halted further training. Friday, ironically the best weather day, only allowed for morning training due to end- of-course admin. Nonetheless, all seven ASPT members completed their final jump of the week, with some achieving the simulated cord pull. To cap off the week's success, the team enjoyed a night out in Larnaca, joking about who looked worse "in the door." The experience strengthened bonds, tested courage, and provided a valuable adventurous training opportunity.
“In the door” morning dry drills
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Sgt (SI) James leaving the door with a “Good All the Way”
Sgt (SI) Burton concentration or praying he’s packed it correctly