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jeant Major McFadden, this allowed us OCdts to observe the right leadership and tactical under- standing needed to achieve mission success at this new level. Preparation started in the late hours of the night before, with multiple orders delivered. My section, 2 Section from 22 Platoon, were cho- sen with the crucial task of recceing and marking the form-up point for the Company, and the fire support position that would fix the enemy from a vantage point in the high ground. OCdt Ali led the group as the Platoon Commander, through the darkness, using the HMNVS and the little moon- light as the guide past the baby heads, barbed wire fences and low-lying streams. There were periods of hardship to overcome, as we formed almost a midnight conga to ensure we all got to our destina- tion. Nevertheless, the team prevailed in securing a suitable location for the Company to arrive and a piece of key terrain that allowed the gun group of 3 GPMGs a great view of all enemy positions.
The main body arrived to the relief of our recce group, who had been out in the elements for sev- eral hours now. The attack was upon us soon after, as 24 Platoon led a swift defeat of the first posi- tion, utilising a winding and narrow ditch as cover, but taking a few casualties as a consequence of their hard and fast approach. 23 Platoon took over and continued in a similar vain. Each platoon had effectively an hour each to secure their objective. They wasted no time, as the first two were taken in
around 40 minutes. It left 22 Platoon with breathing room to finalise the defeat of the Zabzimek forces. It appeared as if 23 Platoon had already assaulted one of the final platoon’s positions, leaving some confusion as to whether all enemy positions had been defeated. After some short deliberation, as well as a quick patrol and exploitation of the last position, it was confirmed that all of the Zabzimeks had perished. That concluded another successful exercise for Burma Company; all that was left to do was remove any of the loose rounds from the crevasses of our daysacks and reveal who had the most pungent and wrinkly feet.
A sense of accomplishment was felt, as we had just endured one of the most fatiguing exercises at Sandhurst. The lessons to be learnt were bought forward in a post exercise review. We had to develop our understanding of the 1-ups intent, to improve coursemanship and teamwork, fight for communications or use other means more effec- tively, and finally look like a leader. I felt this exercise certainly helped shape the OCdts of Commission- ing Course 232 into more perseverant, competent and professional potential Army Officers. It taught us the value of sustainability and durability out in the field, and more personally, it helped create a strong bond between myself and the people to my left and right. This was an experience that will live long in the memory, and one that you just do not get anywhere else!
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