Page 108 - The Wish Stream Year of 2022 CREST

Impressions of a Platoon Commander
Captain Steph Sheldon, Royal Australian Engineers
13months ago, I arrived in the United Kingdom on a cold win- ter’s morning with a plethora of emotions – apprehension, a little bit of anxiety, but above all, excitement to start my new job as an Exchange Officer at the Royal Military Academy Sand- hurst. If I am being honest, I am not sure what I expected. Walking through the main gate of Sandhurst for the first time was an overwhelming experience – the sheer size and beauty of the grounds, Sandhurst’s reputation as a world-class leadership academy and the enormity of the challenge that lay ahead was close
to mind.
Walking through those gates, I was pre- pared to rapidly learn about British Doc- trine and Tactics, as well as developing an understanding and appreciation of the British Army’s military planning tools. However, I was not prepared for the language barrier or the regimental cul- ture that I would encounter. Every mili- tary has their fair share of acronyms but mixed with regional accents and slang this was indeed a challenge. However, potentially more importantly, noting the
key role that platoon commanders’ play in preparing and supporting OCdts for the Regimental Selection Board, I was not prepared for the rich history, tradi- tions, and the culture of the British Army Regiments.
Now, 13 months later, I can fondly look back at this time, astounded at how much I have learnt and all the amazing people I have worked with, coached, and mentored. It has been an eye- opening experience, one that I will cher- ish for years to come. In particular, the hard work, tenancy and youthful exu- berance of the OCdts has given me a new sense of purpose and drive; the professionalism and competence of the Staff has pushed me at every turn to be a better instructor and officer. If I could sum up my overall experience at Sand- hurst in two words, it would be ‘truly remarkable.’
Editor’s note: Captain Sheldon is too modest to include that her Platoon won the honour of becoming the Sovereign’s Platoon in the intake!
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