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The nal week of the course saw staff from ASPT-Aldershot arrive at the school to rehearse the Edwardian Gymnastic Routine ready for the closing display, this task was undertaken and directed by SSgt (SSI) C Goodchild who himself also took part in the display, overseen by the Adjutant, Capt (MAA) DJ Boocock and Chief Instructor Capt (MAA) J Yates.
On Thursday 8th October 2015, an attendance of 120 guests and VIP’s were welcomed along with the Inspecting Of cer Colonel Commandant; Lt Gen J Bashall CBE. Commanding Of cer, Lt Col (MAA) K M McDonald RAPTC who opened the proceedings with an opening address to welcome all spectators to the school. This being a momentous occasion with a fantastic turnout and many having travelled from overseas to witness the poignant but timely closing of a school which has contributed hugely to both the Field Army and the RAPTC.
The nal Inter Section Flag competition from the Army School of Physical Training (Germany) was won by members of 2 Section; under the direction of Sgt (SI) C Taylor. The Inspecting of cer Presented the Flag to the winning Section, following with the ne tradition of presenting the PTI cross swords to the Flag section. After the presentations, AAPTI’s demonstrated a wide variety of training displays; it was a magni cent display consisting of elements and themes from the AAPTI course. The AAPTI course displays cumulated with a spectacular “Edwardian” nale which
was performed by ASPT and RAPTCI’s members of staff.
After the traditional AAPTI demonstrations there was a short interlude which gave the guests a chance to move outside the school to witness the spectacular military display performed by the Band of the Household Cavalry who delighted the audience with a variety of renditions closing with the sunset retreat for the lowering of the ag of the Army School of Physical Training (Germany); after which the National Anthem and the German national Anthem were played. The German delegate – the Bürgermeister then addressed the audience with the of cial farewell tidings followed by Commanding Of cer Lt Col (MAA) KM McDonald who addressed the German dignitaries on behalf of the ASPT and RAPTC. Lt Gen J Bashall addressed the spectators with a closing address. From which point the band of the Household Cavalry played a blast of the regimental quick march of the Colonel Commandants Late cap badge followed by marching off to the RAPTC quick march “Be Fit!”
The evening saw the majority of the guests attended a formal dinner night; this allowed the Commanding Of cer of the ASPT Lt Col (MAA) KM McDonald to address all the attending guests and to make a number of presentations. The Commanding Of cer Presented framed tapestry of the RAPTC ag to Mr Jimmy Crawford (ASPT-G Equipment manager) and to Frau Marina Hemsley-Howe
(ASPT-G courses Clerk and administrator) followed by some farewell words from the Commanding Of cer. Sgt (SI) Jackson presented the ag of the Army School of Physical Training Germany to RAPTC Colonel Commandant Lt Gen J Bashall CBE appreciatively receiving the ag and addressing guests on this nal occasion. The closing of the Army Physical Training School (Germany) was completed with exceptional input from all those who took part and will last a life time in the memories of those who were present.