Page 65 - Bugle Spring 2025

SOUTH WEST
SEAFARING SUCCESS
Devon Cadets gain skills and confidence on Boleh Sailing Expeditions
Devon Army Cadets spent three weeks
experiencing different levels of sailing on
the Boleh Trust Sailing boat. This initiative
started with an unforgettable five-day
journey from Gosport traversing the
challenging waters of the English Channel.
Once docked in Portland, the sailing boat
then held five, one-day expeditions giving
different cadets, each day a taste of what
being on the yacht is like and having the
opportunity to sail around Weymouth Bay.
The finale of this expedition was when the
Boleh was then sailed back to Gosport with
a brand-new crew of cadets.
The Devon ACF had received significant
financial support to make this expedition
possible and are deeply grateful for the partial
funding from ACCTUK, amounting to £2,025,
as well as a generous grant of £6,000 from
the Ulysses Trust. This invaluable support
underscores the importance of providing
young cadets with enriching and educational
experiences at sea.
During their time on board the ship, the
cadets immersed themselves in a hands-on
learning environment and gained essential
skills, including mastering seamanship rules,
understanding maritime safety protocols,
The cadets
have
benefited
immensely
from their
time on
Boleh,
and this
journey
will leave
a lasting
impression
on their
lives
navigating the seas, and performing safe
vessel manoeuvres. These practical skills
were complemented by the opportunity to
form strong bonds as a team, share stories
and experiences, and build confidence and
camaraderie.
Captain Kevin Found, Adventurous Training
Officer for Devon ACF, commented: “The
cadets have benefited immensely from their
time on Boleh, and this journey will leave a
lasting impression on their lives. Devon ACF
is committed to providing opportunities for
young people to explore the world of sailing
and develop valuable life skills. We look
forward to many more successful expeditions
in the future, continuing to empower and
inspire the next generation of sailors.”
REFLECTIONS FROM COLONEL STEVE FROST, DEVON ACF
As we close the year, it’s a pleasure to
leadership and responsibility among our most
reflect on the remarkable achievements
experienced cadets. This cadre builds on past
and progress made across Devon ACF, in
successes, providing tailored training and
the past six months that I have been County
mentorship to prepare them for future roles
Another
Commandant. We have witnessed ambition,
within the ACF and beyond.
key
growth, and renewed connections, and it
Strengthening Military Connections
initiative
underscores the dedication of our cadets,
Collaboration with military units in Devon
adult volunteers, and permanent support staff.
this year
has been a cornerstone of our growth. Our
was the
Relaunching the Corps of Drums
strengthened partnership with the Army
Red Star
One of my proudest objectives must be the
Training Unit, Exeter University Officer Training
relaunch of the Corps of Drums, a project that
Corp and 6 RIFLES has brought invaluable
Cadre
has flourished beyond expectations. Previously
opportunities and experiences to our cadets,
based solely in Okehampton and tied closely
reinforcing the bond between the ACF and the
to C Company, the Corps has transformed
wider military community.
into a true county-wide asset. With the
establishment of satellite detachments in
every company and training nights held
twice a month, we’ve created a cohesive,
collaborative group and my thanks go to all of
those involved in making the Corps of Drums
the success it is today.
Expanding Devon ACF
We’ve also taken significant strides in growing
the size of Devon ACF, with a focus on opening
new detachments and recruiting new
members. We’ve seen our membership rise
closer to our goal of 1,000 cadets, a milestone
that reflects the appeal and value of the ACF
experience.
Supporting Senior Cadets with the Red
Star Cadre
Another key initiative this year was
establishing the Red Star Cadre, a senior
cadet leadership group aimed at fostering
two weeks at Wyvern Barracks and Scraesdon
Fort. The program included field training
exercises, shooting packages, and both wet
and dry adventure training.
As a follow-up we organised Ex
CHRISTMAS CRACKER, a weekend gathering at
Okehampton Camp for 200 cadets from across
Devon. This event was a resounding success,
blending fun, friendship, and well-being, with
highlights including ice cream provided by
the British Forces Broadcasting Service’s
charitable van.
Colonel Steve Frost
Summer Camp Success
Though initially allocated to Chickerell for this
year’s annual camp, logistical challenges led
to a creative solution: hosting the camp over
RIFLES The Bugle 65