Page 114 - RAPTC Year of 2019

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JOINT SERVICE MOUNTAIN TRAINING CENTRE INDEFATIGABLE
This is my transition and experience over the last 12 months as I change from Gymnasium to a Woolly Hat. I had a rough idea of what I thought the life of an ATI was going to be; it soon became apparent to me that the life isn’t all about great weather, mountain views, sun lotion and ice cream. I can certainly see why those would think as such, considering the fantastic places I have been; walking in areas of outstanding natural beauty in Northern Ireland and the Lake District, climbing in sunny Spain or mountain biking around the Snowdonia National Park.
With that already done and the 2020 FOE already gearing up for visits to Sicily, New York, skiing in Austria, paddling on crystal clear water in Slovenia, Alpine Mountaineering in Switzerland and all before summer, then back to Spain for more climbing. These are just some of the amazing expeditions and perks that come with being an ATI.
On the flip side, we are tested in some of the most challenging conditions. Torrential rain, 70mph winds and sub-zero temperatures are just some of the demanding circumstances an ATI and students can find themselves in. Operating in such hostile conditions and adding the demanding arduous outdoor activities into the scenario, is when we see who you really are, and the aims of AT are truly met. This presents the training team with the perfect opportunity to highlight the direct link between AT and working on operations. We find ourselves consistently connecting how we expose students to hardship and danger through Adventurous Training and how that correlates to military operations and developing leaders. The Army Core Values, leadership, teamwork and fighting spirit are just some of the qualities tested here at JSMTC(I), in which all are necessary to enhance the operational effectiveness of military personnel.
On top of the demanding FOE and constantly delivering; the role of an ATI is both timely and physically demanding. That said it is imperative that, as an RAPTCI, there is a responsibility to adapt and find time to keep current with the PD side of life. If the RAPTC
SPANROCK 19 – Climbing the Peñón, Spain
require me to return to the Field Army, I need to be fully prepared for what to expect. RAPTCIs’ are SMEs within health, fitness and sports; therefore, it is vital that staying as active and competitive as possible. With JSMTC(I) having such a hectic program all year round, it can be difficult to factor in time to participate in both individual and team Corps sports. This results in having to participate or compete in civilian organisations in my own time. However, this only improves our already exceptional rapport with the local community in Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwll- llantysiliogogogoch and the surrounding areas.
The role of an ATI is a demanding but a hugely rewarding place of work; and I encourage if there are any potential RAPTCIs’ who would like a change in direction, speak with your Bde Managers as soon as possible, my only regret is that I sat on the fence for too long.
SSgt (SSI) A Griffiths RAPTC
SSgt Griffiths RAPTC, WO2 Bloomer RAPTC, Sgt Castle RAPTC, Cpl Cole RE and Cpl Clemmons Winter mountain training February 2020 Scotland