Page 14 - Bugle Spring 2025

2 RIFLES
ADVENTURE TRAINING SUCCESS FOR
THE 2 RIFLES BATTLEGROUP
After an intense 45-day deployment on Ex
HARAKA STORM, the 2 RIFLES Battlegroup
had the opportunity to reset and recharge
during an adventure training (AT) package
at the Rift Valley and Savage Wilderness AT
centres. The training allowed soldiers and
officers to step away from the pressures
of a prolonged deployment and immerse
themselves in activities such as white-water
rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, archery, and
paddleboarding.
The break provided a welcome change
of pace, giving the Battlegroup the chance
to decompress after a demanding and high-
pressure period in the field. The adventurous
activities tested participants in new ways,
while also fostering camaraderie and
strengthening team cohesion across all ranks.
Lieutenant Du Toit reflected saying: “The
AT package was special as it gave me an
opportunity to socialise and unwind with my
platoon outside of a military environment.
This was particularly welcome after such
an intense period of training.” His sentiment
was shared widely across the Battlegroup,
highlighting the value of shared experiences
away from normal military structure. For
Rifleman Longworth, who joined the Battalion
halfway through the exercise directly from
phase two training in Catterick, the AT was
particularly impactful. “The AT gave me a
chance to get to know my fellow Riflemen
outside of the normal rank structure,” he said.
“It also pushed me out of my comfort zone in
different ways to the exercise.”
The variety of activities catered to
everyone, offering both physical challenges
and moments of reflection. These shared
challenges built confidence and trust,
reinforcing bonds that will carry through to
future deployments. Beyond the physical
benefits, the AT package created a space for
people to connect on a personal level. Time
spent together during and after activities
allowed for conversations and laughter,
fostering a sense of community within the
Battlegroup that extended across ranks.
Such opportunities are essential for
maintaining morale and readiness. After an
extended period of intense training, adventure
training served as a reminder of the need
to balance physical recovery with mental
resilience, and to value the human connections
that strengthen the Battalion as a whole.
In every respect, the post Exercise HARAKA
STORM AT was a success. It left participants
recharged and reconnected, better prepared
for the challenges ahead. For 2 RIFLES,
the AT was more than just a break - it was
an opportunity to strengthen the spirit of
the Regiment and celebrate the shared
experiences and successes.
Lt Jack Chrisp, 7 Platoon, B Company
These shared
challenges built
confidence and
trust, reinforcing
bonds that will carry
through to future
deployments
The marksmanship principles
apply across all mediums
Man overboard!
Lt Du Toit trying to show
off to one of his Sections
14 RIFLES The Bugle