Page 32 - AMA Summer 2024

ALPINE ADVENTURES›
Yet another 0300hrs start. We descended from the Tete Rouge Hut to the Mid d’Aigle station again, this time to jump on the first train down. From there we drove out of France and back into Switzerland to the Gemmi Pass. A short hop up the gondola and we settled into the Hotel Wildstrubel at 2350m. Without a moment’s rest we were thrust out onto the nearby, 1.3km Klettersteig route. The highlights for some, but not all, were the 65m long rope bridge and the 20m high turntable ladder, rotating through 540°as we spiralled up the mountainside.
As always, we set off early the next day by torch light to complete our final peak of the trip. The Steghorn rose to 3146m and was easy in comparison to our previous climbs. However, as we stepped off the glacier, a slippery climb up the scree through the mist increased the challenge. Photos and handshakes all round before we returned to the Wildstrubel Hotel and the return journey to Chamonix checking into La Folie Douche Hotel for some much-needed recovery. That evening we met with the trekking group and enjoyed a meal together in Chamonix.
Achievements and Outlook
Although we didn’t achieve our main objective, the exercise was nonetheless a resounding success. Participants not only reached other alpine summits but also achieved significant personal growth in terms of resilience and skills development. The experience left them better prepared for their military roles, particularly in challenging and high-altitude environments. Furthermore, the expedition highlighted the military’s commitment to continuous improvement and the development of its personnel. The skills acquired during this adventure will undoubtedly serve the soldiers well in their future endeavours.
The Army Mountaineering Association’s members exemplified the military’s dedication to excellence and readiness. By challenging its members in the harsh conditions of the French Alps, the Association’s leaders ensured that participants were well-prepared for any high-al- titude mission that may arise. This remarkable journey serves as a testament to the bravery, determination, and professionalism of the soldiers involved, showcasing the military’s commitment to pushing the boundaries in the pursuit of excellence.
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OBJECTIVES
Skills Development
Participants engaged in hands-on training in ice and snowcraft, glaciers, and high-al- titude acclimatisation. These skills are crucial for any military personnel operating in high-altitude and extreme conditions.
Team Building
The expedition fostered teamwork, communication and camaraderie among the partici- pants. In military operations, effective teamwork is vital, and the challenging environment of Mont Blanc provided the ideal backdrop for building these essential skills.
Physical and Mental Endurance
The ascent of 4000m+ summits tested the physical and mental endurance of the partici- pants. The team had to cope with fatigue, low oxygen levels, and extreme cold, preparing them for demanding military missions in harsh environments.
Leadership and Decision-Making
Throughout the expedition, participants took turns leading the group and making critical decisions. This experience enhanced their leadership and decision-making abilities; skills highly valued in the military.