Page 36 - Bugle Issue 18 Auntumn 2021

6 RIFLES
Over the past few months 6 RIFLES have begun preparing for Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL 2021. Training started with earnest at the end of January over Zoom. While clearly not an ideal situation to find ourselves in, Cpl Norwood, one of our instructors, wanted
to seize the initiative and cover as much of the conceptual and academic training as possible.
“The one thing that stood out in my mind was how can mental resilience be built? A mixed team with various experiences would show different levels of mental resilience. Our training package therefore had to be designed for everyone to bond as a team, working towards a common goal. We have factored this in by placing the team into situations that would
be overwhelming when working as individuals, but when working as a team are achievable- something that they have all learned early on in their preparation. A strong basis in preparation and training should lead to a strong performance on the Patrol, and I have nothing but high hopes for this team.”
Sjt Delahunty, SPSI D Coy
We continue to have fortnightly training nights over Zoom. Despite how it sounds, we have still been able to cover a lot of content, ranging from recce patrol theory to Kim’s Games, and
it is certainly a better use of our time than just waiting for in-person training. To date, we’ve had two weekends, the first a gentle re-introduction into the field environment in Laddock Woods near Truro, and the second
a patrol exercise across Dartmoor, covering nearly 30km with regular stands to teach from the military syllabus.
“This type of training is the exact reason I joined The Rifles, to be pushed hard and see what I am capable of. Fortunately, tabbing and navigation are my strengths, so I was able to focus more attention on the other lessons and tests and be more of a help to the team. When I started, training with the Cambrian Team was daunting, especially given the experience of others. It has been a steep learning curve, but I have certainly learned a lot.” Rfn Poole, C Coy.
With rumours of river crossings and Fan Dances to come, we certainly have a busy summer of training ahead. From July onwards we’ll begin training with the Exeter University
Officer Training Corps, allowing a greater pool of resources and therefore a higher quality
of training. Dependent on restrictions the competition should take place in mid-October and I look forward to our team representing the battalion.
2Lt Brudenell, HQ Coy
Why are training areas never flat!
...I have nothing but high hopes for this team
36 RIFLES The Bugle
‘I will collect the moss...’
Rfn receive a set of orders during training for Ex CAMBRIAN PATROL
This type of training is the exact reason I joined The
Rifles, to be pushed hard and see what I am capable of
A lovely spot for a team photo!
6 RIFLES PREPARE FOR
EX CAMBRIAN PATROL