Page 14 - QARANC Vol 14 No 13 2016

12 QARANC THE GAZETTE
Ex Proton Serpent –
Defence Medical Group (South)
Eight DMG South personnel from all three Services attended Ex Proton Serpent in January 2016, including five personnel from the QARANC. The team had mixed skiing abilities, from complete novice to advanced who had attended this event previously. The exercise was run over a two-week period and included both Nordic and Alpine skiing. It included a patrol race where a team of four QAs used their military skills to navigate, complete command tasks and carry out firing on the ranges.
Our own experience at taking part in the whole competition as complete novices was nerve-racking at times due to the unexpected slope heights and speed. Each day was challenging but the overall experience was very rewarding. We had no knowledge beforehand of Nordic skiing. We adapted fast each day from a large Alpine ski to a narrower Nordic ski. From sliding down the slopes fast, it came as a surprise to find that we would soon be learning to come up steep hills on Nordic skis as well. When race day came we felt nervous about
completing a 5k Nordic race. Although novices, we were very proud of our efforts, as were the rest of DMG South team. This helped our team spirit for the rest of the competitive week, especially when it came to the patrol race. As novices the Alpine races were also daunting as it included more difficult slopes than we had tackled before. Once completed, our two weeks came to an end and we were very happy with everyone’s achievements including our own.
The two weeks provided an opportunity for tuition and racing to allow personnel to develop their skills and overcome new challenges along the way. This event allowed our unit to integrate with the whole of the Army Medical Services, which boosted morale for all. The small village of Serre Chevalier was largely populated by the British Army and allowed us to represent the AMS in an extremely positive light, upholding the standards and values at all times ensuring the two weeks went tremendously well.
DMG South was one of the teams that had the privilege to host the then
Director General of the Army Medical Services, Major General Jeremy Rowan CB OBE QHS. The evening was approached in great spirit by all and the whole team had the pleasure of sitting down for dinner (and a few drinks) with DGAMS. Thanks go to Sgt Frake and Cpl Carter for cooking three outstanding courses.
This exercise wouldn’t have been as memorable if it wasn’t for the generosity and help from the QA Association, who kindly provided funding through the Days Pay Scheme. This allowed us to partake in skiing lessons from French ski instructors and army ski instructors as well as enjoy the accommodation facilities.
The two-week exercise was enjoyed and valued by all, a fantastic experience and opportunity, with team building, overcoming obstacles and encouragement throughout. This exercise is highly recommended by all the team for others to engage in, regardless of ability!
Ptes Perkin & Merrett HCA, DMG(S)