Page 12 - The Royal Lancers Chapka 2018

10 REGIMENTAL JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL LANCERS (QUEEN ELIZABETHS’ OWN)
As the Russians found in Operation Barbarossa, the cold can be a truly uncompromising master. The infamous ‘Beast from the East’ hit Catterick in full fury as the 2018 PNCO cadre began. Thirty-two intrepid Troopers set out for three weeks of ranges, command leadership and management, culminating in a taxing final test exercise on Catterick training area.
The course began with the Troopers moving out of their Single Living Accommodation or houses and into shared accommoda- tion in Cambrai Barracks. After completing a range qualification during the first week, the course transitioned into the test phase. The section competition – a variety of physical events, including log runs, navigation exercises and gun runs – was the first oppor- tunity for the junior soldiers to show off their leadership poten- tial. Despite the proximity to Cambrai Lines, Catterick training area became the perfect testing ground. The horrendous weather conditions and the terrain provided a tough and arduous envi- ronment, resulting in a true test of soldiering ability.
The final test exercise focused on core recce skills and aimed to foster a tenacious, inquisitive mindset in the potential NCOs. The Troopers were given an introduction to a basic combat es- timate and then tested on the orders process, tutored by their
section directing staff Corporals Monk, Newberry and Chris- tie. The exercise was broken down into three separate phases: a Close Target Reconnaissance, a Recce Patrol and finally a contact lane culminating in a casualty evacuation. Each of the serials developed the soldiers’ recce skills and gave them an insight into the jobs they might find themselves doing later in their careers.
As dawn broke on the final morning of the course, the potential NCOs took part in a battle lane, clearing a number of enemy positions. The remaining participants showed admirable deter- mination in the face of fatigue caused by an arduous week on the training area. The final serial required further mental ro- bustness as the course conducted a casualty evacuation over five miles, finishing at Cambrai Lines gym. The Regiment lined the road through camp up to the gym, giving great encouragement to some very tired individuals!
Lance Corporal Imber was awarded the prize top student on the course. The Regiment can rest easy knowing that another cohort of junior soldiers have shown they have what it takes to be the NCOs of the future – well done to all.
HSD
PNCO Cadre February 2018