Page 20 - Mind, Body and Spirit No. 105 2021/22

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HEADQUARTERS REGIONAL COMMAND
WO1 (SMI) DT Arkless RAPTC
After such a restricted two years due to Covid-19, very little interaction, very little sport and no Adventurous Training (AT), it was imperative that where guidelines allowed, the PD Branch’s aim was to enthuse and inspire the Regional Command (RC) team.
With the initiative of bringing SP together, all events were very much based around team cohesion and fun, whilst conducting physical development away from gym facilities and normal working routines.
Our first activity involved ‘sit on top kayaks’ and ‘Stand Up Paddleboarding’ (SUP) on Hawley Lake, Minley. We were fortunate to have fantastic weather on the day, so regardless of ability, no one minded getting wet (they were all going to get wet!). Neither AT or Sport, the aim of the day was to remove SP from their comfort zones, learn more about one another, have fun with the bi-product of subconsciously learning new skills.
After the summer had settled, it was time to reunite and further develop the RC cohort. Due to current policy, trying to establish an
inclusive event for SP, Civil Servants and contracted staff proved difficult. The way to achieve this was to conduct 3 separate events which included mountain biking for SP, an evening of bowling and a curry night to include all staff. This was well received by all attendees, less WO1 (SMI) Gillard who clearly requires bowling development.
The primary focus of the year was the organisation, delivery, and execution of Exercise Montgomery Tiger. This consisted of a two- week Alpine Ski expedition delivering JSAT SF1, 2 and 3 courses as distributed trg in Val Thorens, France. Overall, 39 SP attended with 36 achieving a JSAT qualification, this was outweighed by the experience and leadership development training that all SP received.
2022 sees the farewell of WO1 (SMI) Gillard on promotion to Capt as he takes up post in ATR Winchester with WO1 (SMI) Harden assuming the role of SMI PD as of Apr 22.
Maj (MAA) Boocock dusting off his ATI roots and Maj (MAA) Doree showing everyone how it’s done WO1 (SMI) Arkless enjoying life away from the office conducting a fun warm up for HQ RC personnel
WO1 (SMI) Arkless leading the SF1 group