Page 190 - RAPTC Year of 2019

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It was 40 years to the day when instructors from Probationer (Prob’s) Course (Cse) 94 passed into the Corps and I was host to their reunion at the ASPT pass-off parade to witness RAPTC
Instructors course 219 “badge” into the RAPTC and I must say It was an absolute honour and humbling experience to host 11 from the original 19 for the day.
The day started at the ASPT front gate where I collected Prob’s Cse 94. I must admit, I had visions of Zimmer frames and mobility scooters but this was not the case; age was certainly being kind to these ex-Corpsmen (Mens Sana in Corpore Sano). This day could have made for an awkward encounter as some of the course have not seen each other for the past 30+ years. However, in true military fashion, the best way to overcome a 30-year void is with merciless banta which really set the tone for the remainder of the day.
The reunion started with a tour of the PT School. They reminisced about being in the LAB classrooms, spoke of the fact that Brown Conference Room was their gymnastics suite and how some of the memorabilia in the museum was significant to their time in the Corps. We swiftly moved on to main event of the day, the legendary pass-off display; needless to say, they had the best seats in the house and it was obvious to see they all had great admiration and felt immensely proud of those on parade. Finally, it was up to the WOs’ and Sgts’ Mess to welcome RAPTC Instructors Course 219 to the Mess. The afternoon was full of old stories, a few pints,
Course 94 heading into Fox Gym for Pass off parade
curry lunch and of course the day would not have been complete without a photo with Course 219 and a sing-a-long to the Corps March.
It was a privilege to host Prob’s Cse 94. It would be great to see further Probs reunions at the ASPT and the CO would warmly welcome them to the ASPT (where all our Corps careers started). All requests should be directed to the Regimental Secretary who can be contacted on: 0125278716 or Gareth.jones680@mod. gov.uk
Probationers course photo from 1979
PROBATIONER COURSE 94 REUNION
WO2 (QMSI) L Kinsley RAPTC, Course Design Cell Warrant Officer
Course 219 and Course 94 singing the Corps March