Page 121 - RSDG Year of 2023

The Battalion which includes SCOTS DG and SNIY detachments, has had a very busy 2023 which has been as actioned packed as ever. Not only was the Battalion involved in events linked to the Coronation, most notably the Regimental Band but we have worked hard to make sure all the cadets gained the benefits from progressing through the Cadet Force Syllabus. To help this, we have changed the camp model from one fortnight long summer camp to a Spring Camp in Barry Buddon and Summer Camp in Garelochhead.
The Spring Camp, which was attended by 280 cadets, focussed on the badging boards, qualifying cadets in their star levels. Not only were we lucky to have had excellent weather but we were supported by the Army Reserve throughout the training. 154 (Scottish) Regiment RLC provided a MAN Troop Carrying Vehicle (Enhanced Seating) to transport the cadets and CFAVs round Barry Buddon. After all the training and risk assessments everybody had a ride in the truck, which proved to be very popular. To bring a bit more colour to the activities the medics from 225 Medical Regiment were on site to add some realism to the 1st Aid training and to show the cadets what the modern RAMC role is and what kind of kit they have. In addition, representatives from Poppy Scotland came to show and explain the origin of the RBLS and what it and Poppy Scotland do to support serving and retired service personnel.
The Summer Camp, once again held at Garelochhead, was all about fun. The cadets embarked on a busy programme including lots of adventure training, fieldcraft, 1st Aid, CIS and a Battalion Competition. There was no live firing but instead everybody was able to take part in paint- balling under the keen eve of SMI Dale Girdwood and SSI Dougie Gold. The Battalion also hosted a 20 strong Polish Cadet Contingent as part of Exercise SOBIESKA. They keenly took part in activities as if they were British cadets and were able to visit Edinburgh Castle and Wellshill Cemetery in Perth to pay their respects to the Polish fallen from World War 2. There were competitions for CIS using PRR, tag archery and laser clay pigeon shooting. Each company had to organise and run evening activities, which proved to be very popular. Adventure Training was led by SI James Martin and comprised canyoning and paddle boarding. The Battalion held its first competition since before the COVID pandemic. It was much enjoyed and, after all the points were totalled up, Burma Company were the worthy winners.
The Battalion entered a team for the 51 Brigade Military Skills Competition held at Barry Buddon in September. This year a selection process and pre-competition training was organised by the Training Sergeant Major (Cadets), SMI Jamie Gibson. As a result, the Battalion entered a strong and motivated team. In the end the team, comprising cadets ranging from 2 to 4 Star level, came in as runners up to the ACF winners, Glasgow and Lanarkshire Battalion and were 3rd in the overall competition of 14 teams from both the ACF and CCF. It was an outstanding result.
Cadet Corporal Codi Clarke also won the Best Instructor category at the 51 Brigade Drill Competition, held at Glencorse Barracks.
The Regimental Band played at Stirling Castle to mark His Majesty The King’s official birthday and both it and the Pipes and Drums had a very successful Summer Camp in London culminating in Beating Retreat on Horse Guards. They also played at the Royal Hospital Chelsea and were a major part of the cadet contingent at the cadets’ Beating Retreat at Edinburgh Castle.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme has a very big presence in the Battalion. This year alone almost three quarters of the cadets have started training for bronze, silver or gold awards. Captain Abi Robertson, the Duke of Edinburgh Officer, has done sterling work creating and organising opportunities for every cadet. In addition, SI Martin has revolutionised the Adventure Training oppor- tunities for the cadets which have been so well received.
Training for the Duke of Edinburgh’s award
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BLACK WATCH BATTALION ARMY CADET FORCE