Page 105 - Wish Stream Year of 2018

for the first time in the course, positions inside buildings. Despite the added complexity, those in command appointments reacted well and the missions were achieved. However, all platoons experienced casualties, and so began the long casualty evacuation back through the fog to the Company Emergency Rendezvous. Team spirit was very evident, and it is clear how
our first ambush, we set off and established our position in daylight, then lay in wait for the enemy patrol to pass. The brief attack was followed by a rapid withdrawal back to our final rendezvous and then to the harbour for our last night in the woodblock. The intelligence gained from these ambushes told us that the enemy knew our
much this has developed since we all met last term.
That evening all platoons were
to conduct night raids on small
farm complexes. This was our first
attempt at this offensive action. The
moon-state meant you could barely
see your hand in front of your face,
but thanks to excellent navigation skills, all pla- toons made it to their objectives. With the help of illuminating flares and the diligence of those in command roles, the night raids were quick and effective. Everyone agreed this was one of the highlights of the exercise because it was fast- paced and something we had not done before.
The next day allowed more time for administra- tion, to let those in command prepare for our next offensive action: an ambush. As this was
locations, so we must withdraw to the battalion headquarters. This involved a five-kilometre tab back to a farm com- plex, where we would spend the night in the cover of a large barn to prepare for the final day’s company attacks.
The exercise culminated in two coor- dinated company attacks. Vehicles dropped us close to our objectives
then we began the largest attacks we have done on the course so far. With added support from a Gurkha fire support team and artillery, each platoon defeated their objectives and ended the exercise on a high. Then the rain began. Luckily it came after the exercise had ended, but it did mean the coaches back to Sandhurst were filled with soggy Officer Cadets, but nevertheless all very satisfied with how the week had gone and what we had achieved.
The exercise culminated in two coordinated company attacks.
SANDHURST 103