CANADA 2016 - Army Cadets · Page 2 Canada 2016 Each year adets ranch HQ Army Regional ommand in...

Canada 2016

CANADA 2016 A YEARBOOK CELEBRATING THE UK - CANADA EXCHANGE VISIT JULY - AUGUST 2016

Could you take this challenge ?

After a final briefing at Hammersmith Cadet Training Centre in London, 43 cadets and CFAVs from all over the UK set off on Saturday 9th July from Heathrow on the 2016 Canada Cadet Exchange. Their first journey took them to Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary and on to one of three Royal Canadian Army Cadet Summer camp locations at Rocky Mountain, Argonaut and Whitehorse. They joined cadets from all over Canada also taking part in the Summer Camp season at some of the most awe inspiring camp venues.

At 0600hrs on Saturday as the teams left Hammersmith for Heathrow the air was filled with excitement and, despite the early hour, huge smiles on the faces of the adventurers. During the course of the six week camp, a programme of adventurous training was planned and is the highlight for many of the cadets. The exchange group is made up of both ACF and CCF cadets and resulted from a selection exercise earlier in 2016.

ACF Training Advisor, Colonel Clinton Riley said "It's great to see the Cadets heading off on a life changing summer of a lifetime, building on this year Lt Col Jimmy Beggs, who has recently been appointed OC Regional Command Exchanges already has plans in hand to expand the opportunities for our Cadets."

Canada 2016

Each year Cadets Branch HQ Army Regional Command in conjunction with the Royal Canadian Army Cadet (RCAC) organisation manages an International cadet exchange. Three groups of 13 UK ACF/CCF cadets travelled with their two adult leaders to three Canadian Cadet Camps in New Brunswick (Argonaut) Yukon Territory (Whitehorse) and Alberta (Rocky Mountain). The UK were fully integrated with hundreds of cadets from all over Canada enjoying a challenging annual camp programme from 9th July to 21st August 2016. Canadian cadets also visited the UK.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN. Cadet Leadership & Mountain Course. Alberta, Exercise areas Rockies, glaciers, rivers and mountain. Transit through Calgary; sightseeing in Banff and Calgary included during the course.

WHITEHORSE, Cadet Expedition Instructor Course. Yukon Territory, Exercise areas Yukon and rivers. Transit through Vancouver; local sightseeing included during the course).

ARGONAUT, Cadet Expedition Instructor Course. Gagetown Camp, Fredericton, New Brunswick, including sightseeing in Bay of Fundy and Prince Edward Island during the course.

Training and experience was provided in a variety of subjects from Watermanship, Wilderness First Aid, Hiking, Bike Maintenance and riding skills, Abseiling, Rock Climbing, Marksmanship and Canoeing. The courses also included an element of Drill, Citizenship and Community

activities and Physical fitness. At Whitehorse and Argonaut, the course included a 30-hour solo exercise as well as an 18 day team expedition. UK cadets were chosen by application and selection assessment event held in March 2016, organised by HQ Regional Command. The cadets were challenged and stretched throughout the programme and gained new skills confidence as well as life skills. All of them represented the UK cadet movement well and several were individually commended by their Canadian hosts. All of them graduated successfully. Lieutenant-General P.F Wynnyk Commander of the Canadian Army, took the salute at the 2016 Whitehorse Cadet Graduation Class.

The cadets have now returned home bouyed up after

what for many was the experience of a lifetime, ready

to return to school, college, university, the world of

work and back to their Cadet Detachments and Corps.

They took the challenge

Canada 2016

Lieutenant-General P.F Wynnyk Commander of the Canadian Army meets UK Cadets at Whitehorse Camp

The 2017 overseas exchange programme - selection event. My name is Lt Colonel Jimmy Beggs and I have recently been appointment Officer Commanding International Exchanges. 2016 has been another highly successful and challenging year, cadets attended camps in Latvia (Baltic Guard) and three separate locations in Canada, New Brunswick (Argonaut), Yukon Territory (Whitehorse) and Alberta (Rocky Mountain). I hope this year book will remind you of the part you played in what was a highly successful time for Cadets during their stay overseas.

The planning for the 2017 overseas selection process for all cadets and CFAVs wishing to take part in the Canada and Baltic Guard exchange programme is now complete.

The event will be run out of Gwent and Powys Cadet Training Centre (CTC) Cwrt-y-Gollen over the 2017 Easter weekend 6 to 9 April with activities taking place around the Langorse Lake, Sugar Loaf Mountain and the surrounding hills of Crickhowell.

My training and selection for 2017 has been changed from what was carried out in previous years, it is now designed to mirror the activities that take place at the locations both in Canada and Estonia (2017 Baltic Guard exchange), these include canoeing (Canadian canoes), mountain biking, horse riding and hill walking. It will also include a swimming test at Brecon swimming pool and the Canadian fitness test. The calling notice inviting all CFAV and cadets to apply will be issued through Brigade cadet SO2s early October 2016, it will also be located in Westminster for all to see, all those that are interested in taking up this challenge are simply to adhere with the direction given in the calling notice. Good luck to you all, Jimmy Beggs Lt Colonel, Officer Commanding International Exchanges

Canada 2016 Whitehorse

Whitehorse Before embarking on their 18-day expedition both

platoons went on a 3 day taster of the 3 activities

they will be doing on their 18 day expedition,

hiking, biking and canoeing. Although wet and

windy the cadets rose to the challenge and

persevered and had a good time putting their skills

to the test. There were leaning capsize drills and T-

Rescues in the canoes and carrying out different

biking routes over various terrains and hiking to

and from the camp site.

On Sunday 24 July 16 the UK Cadets were treated

to an hour flight in a nine-seater Cessna Grand

Caravan, light aircraft around Whitehorse area.

This was two separate flights with half the cadets

on each flight. During the flight they followed the

Takhini River that they would be canoeing on their

18 day expedition.

They also flew over a vast mountainous area and

culminating with an aerial view of the cadets

training centre before landing back at Whitehorse

Airport. This gave everyone the opportunity to

take some breath taking photographs.


The Expedition Instructors course which the UK Contingent undertake at Whitehorse, then deployed on their 18-day expedition. This consisted of a 5-day canoe trip of 130 km along the Takhini River, 5-day bike trip of 250 km along the Canol Road, a 45 km hike up and over Mount McIntyre and a community project at Takhini hot springs. The UK cadets enjoyed the experience and have taken in the fantastic scenery and fresh air. The hike and community project for Charlie Team was completed - this was a route clearing project for a cycle path through a wooded area and they spent a day at a campsite carrying out personal admin, laundry and shower facilities before they moved on to the rock climbing phase and the canoe trip. Capt Eliot Daley Senior Escort Officer

Whitehorse


Cadets tribute to Bob


Congratulations to the Whitehorse Camp Awardees Cadet Lance Corporal Ben Harris - Bancroft

School CCF - Best UK Cadet

Cadet Lewis Needham - Lincolnshire ACF -

Comradeship Certificate Award 1 Platoon

Cadet UO - Anna Thompson - Merchant Taylors

Schools CCF - Comradeship Certificate Award 2

Platoon

Cadet Lance Corporal Ben Harris Bancroft School CCF Essex (top pic) writes about his experience at Whitehorse.

The six weeks I spent in Whitehorse Cadet Training Centre doing expedition training were some of the

best of my life. Visiting Canada for the first time was an experience in itself, and the Yukon is a beautiful

place. We spent 18 days in the field on our expedition, covering ground on foot, mountain bike and

canoe. The bike portion was probably my favourite, because the views through the mountains and forests

were amazing. It was hard work but very rewarding and reaching camp each night brought a good sense

of achievement.

While on camp we went through a lot of training in first aid and expedition skills and also spent a day on

the range firing the C7 rifles. I also enjoyed meeting the Canadian cadets from all their different

backgrounds, some English speaking, some French speaking from Quebec and some speaking Inuktitut

from Inuit communities in the north. We made some great friends and lots of memories.

At the end of camp, we had our graduation parade, reviewed by the Commander of the Canadian Army. I

was presented with Top UK Cadet, an achievement I am extremely proud of and felt privileged to receive.

All in all, I had a great summer and would urge anyone to apply for the Whitehorse Expedition Instructor

Course.

Canada 2016 Rocky Mountain

My favourite part of the exchange - Cadet Cpl Will Day Kimbolton CCF

From the beginning of the course, I was looking forward to the water cycle. I had done a small amount of white water kayaking before and was looking forward to learning new skills. From day one of the cycle I knew it was going to be fun; we had arrived at a reservoir, where we practiced basic technique, turning and rescue skills, and I woke up the next day excited to paddle.

For the rest of the week, we went down a number of rapids, increasing in size and also covered how to scout rapids and how to lead a group down them. For lunch we would stop on an island or the bank and discuss how the morning had gone. As the rapids increased in size, they became increasingly more fun. Black mamba and double edge were two of the larger rapids, and although I made it down black mamba successfully, unfortunately double edge ended in a capsize. For two of the nights we camped out, which meant we could set off directly from the campsite, and that we could thaw out around a fire in the evening. Overall, I massively enjoyed this cycle and even waking up to a damp wetsuit every morning it was still my favourite part of the exchange.


Cycle 6 - Glacier Cdt Sgt Major Chloe Davey Northumbria ACF.

The week began with packing all of our kit, ensuring we all had the correct amount of food and clothing. Day one finished with a trip to the Mountain Equipment Co-op in Calgary to buy anything extra we needed for the cycle.

The next day we were transported out to Num-ti-jah lodge from here we trekked around Bow lake and up the trail to Bow hut were we would spend the next 3 nights. The trek up was mainly uphill, but the views were worth it when we made it to the hut.

Day 3 started at 7:30. We then walked the 15 minutes to the glacier where we started to learn the basic skills that were needed such as: how to walk with crampons on; building an ice anchor; and how to use our ice axe.

We then hiked up to Mount Onion and learnt new skills on snow. This included how to build an anchor and the different techniques for walking up and down the snow without slipping.

The day was rounded off by learning crevasse rescues which made me realise anyone of us could fall into a crevasse so it was vital we knew how to rescue them, luckily this never had to be done for real.

On day 4 we woke at 5am to begin to summit Mount Olive which stands over 10'000 feet tall. It was a very difficult morning which involved a constant incline across ice, snow and rock. We eventually reached the top of the mountain at 10:49 with burning thighs, but the view was certainly worth it.

The last day we trekked back down to the Num-ti-jah lodge . Overall this has been an excellent cycle and certainly for me a once in a lifetime opportunity to be up on the glacier. Personally for me the best cycle to finish an amazing six weeks in Canada


ROCKY MOUNTAIN AWARDS Cadet RSM Lewis Francis - Staffs & West Midlands ACF Top UK Cadet and Top Cadet on Rock Cycle

Cadet Sgt Sophie Mundell - Hampshire and IOW ACF -The Sand Shield, Score 44 out of 45 for Leadership

Cadet CSM Kiera Reavill - Wilts ACF Top Female Cadet on Cadet Leadership and Challenge Course , Best Cadet 1 Plt

Cadet Sergeant - Cowan - Kings School Chester CCF - Best Cadet 2 Platoon

Cadet Cpl Will Day - Kimbolton School CCF - Top Cadet on Kayaking Cycle

Cadet Sgt Chloe Cowan The King's School, Chester CCF Rocky Mountain 2016

Of course it is impossible to pick one single favourite moment from

this summer, however, among many, one of the best experiences that

we were fortunate enough to have, was being able to go the Calgary

Stampede on our first R&R day of the camp. Beforehand I had

absolutely no idea what to expect, but in short the Calgary Stampede

is an annual rodeo, festival and massive fair. After only being in

Canada for a week, being suddenly exposed to the massively different

Canadian culture in its entirety was a vague shock to say the least.

After walking around all the fair rides and exhibitions we bought

tickets to the rodeo, which is deemed to be the most famous of its kind in the world, and watched several rounds

of bronc riding and steer wrestling, where cowboys fought to stay on bucking horses and wrestled baby calves to

the ground as quickly as possible. It was interesting and honestly fairly shocking - none of us Brits had ever really

seen anything like it.

One of the more peculiar experiences of the day was definitely the Canadian public’s reaction to us British cadets –

which in hindsight wasn't terribly surprising as we were a large group walking around wearing our British military

pattern uniform. We were stopped several times for photos and even a couple autographs. We also were able to

try out some food typical of Canada/North America. We tried the classic Canadian dish poutine, funnel cake, some

brilliant ribs and root beer (which, be warned, is disgusting – it tastes like tooth paste).

Overall it was a really enjoyable day – a good chance to get off base and a wonderful opportunity to experience

Canadian culture.

Canada 2016 Argonaut

Cadet L/Cpl Matt Hegarty Bromsgrove School CCF Argonaut 7 Plt.

It's safe to say that I have had an amazing six weeks.

As many of the other cadets have pointed out selecting

a favourite moment is nigh on impossible, however

here are a few which really stood out.

The Canadian wildlife was certainly a major attraction.

From the bay of Fundy and it's dramatic coastline to

the breath taking sunsets that ended almost every

single day and the huge array of wildlife such as turtles

and American Eagles that we spotted throughout the

various cycles.

The expedition was visually spectacular. It also

provided some truly surreal experiences. My favourite

of these took place on the kayaking cycle. We had

woken up to a dense fog covering the campsite, leaving

visibility on the river down to practicality nothing. As

team leader that day it was my responsibility to

navigate to our campsite for that evening. Kayaking off

a bearing through the mist covered river was

phenomenally surreal and a memory that will stay with

me for a long time.

Overall the Canadian exchange was one of (and if not

the) best experiences I've had so far, and I would

strongly encourage anybody who can to seize the

opportunity to go themselves... You will not regret it.


Cadet Corporal Jakeem Addman City of London and North East Sector ACF Argonaut 2016

Whilst in Canada I undertook an 18 day expedition with

the Argonaut Cadet Training Centre.

This consisted of 5 days kayaking, 5 days canoeing, finally,

5 days hiking and 3 rest days in total covering more than

280 kilometres.

This was the experience of a lifetime and one that, most

likely, I won't get again. The chance to canoe between two

countries, complete level 2 rapids on a canoe and hike

across some of the most beautiful landscapes in Canada.

This was a challenging trip which pushed the limits of

many people including myself. There were days where I

was not even awake and still paddling or days when I

could not feel my lower legs but still pushed on.

On the other hand there were days where it could not have been better - everyone was happy singing and

enjoying the day’s events. The ethos of the team was the main reason I woke up with a smile, knowing that

everyone would be happy and ready to go that day made me happy.


ARGONAUT AWARDS Cadet Cpl Lucy Somerville - 1st

(NI) Battalion ACF - Trooper

Corey Hayes Memorial Trophy

- Top Cadet on the Expedition

Instructor Course.

Cadet Cpl Damien Butler -

Treorchy School CCF - Lt Col

KM Fell Award - awarded to

the cadet with the most

positive attitude on the 18 day

expedition and The Honorary

Colonel GFC Stanley Sword

awarded to the Deputy Parade

Commander

Canada 2016

A word from one UK Adult Escort

My first summer as an Escort Officer took me to the Rocky Mountain Cadet Training Centre, Alberta. Without question, this was the best summer and experience I have had as a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer to date. The experiences had, beautiful scenery witnessed and the friendships and memories made will last a lifetime. I cannot urge other CFAVs and Officers enough, of all ages and rank, to apply (minimum age of 23 years and minimum rank of Staff Sergeant Instructor). Unfortunately, those CFAVs looking for an all expenses paid holiday should think again. The subject matter and format of each course (Argonaut, Whitehorse and Rocky Mountain) will vary, but they are all equally physically and mentally demanding. Escort Officers are expected to participate in every activity provided and are required to carry out the same training and skill development as the cadets on course, regardless of experience. Therefore, Escort Officers must be physically fit, be keen outdoorsmen, enjoy Adventurous Training, be capable of rising to a challenge and have the ability to be a good role model; not only to the UK Cadets on exchange, but also the RCAC Cadets that you will interact with. For future Escort Officers, remember the RCAC Exchange is bigger than just your summer. The behaviour and conduct of yourselves and the cadets under your care will be remembered for the years to come. Your summer will have the potential to enrich or damage the long relationship between the UK Cadet Forces and the Royal Canadian Army Cadets. Work hard, be willing to take part in all activities and above all, ensure the cadets have the best summer of their lives. If you are debating or torn about applying to become an Escort Officer, don't overthink it, apply and if selected, I promise you the experiences you will have will be second to nothing you have ever done in the ACF or CCF before. I have made friends for life, shared experiences words cannot describe and seen things that pictures would do no justice. Apply and see for yourself. This summer will remain with me forever. Thank you for the amazing opportunity. JA Moore Sergeant Major Instructor British Escort Officer Rocky Mountain Kent Army Cadet Force

Escort Officer

Lieutenant Allan G Dengis , CD Commanding Officer of Rocky Mountain Camp presents

SMI Jay Moore with a Certificate of Appreciation.

See more of the Canada Exchange 2016 on Social Media Twitter: www.twitter.com/canadianXchange Facebook: www.facebook.com/canadianexchange16

http://www.twitter.com/canadianXchange

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Canada 2016

The photography used in this publication and associated social media was provided by both the UK cadets and adults and the Royal Canadian Army Cadet

Unit Public Affairs Officers and supporters whose support throughout we gratefully acknowledge.

Production of Canada Exchange 2016 yearbook by Capt Michael Nolan UK Movement and Media Liaison

Officer - Army Cadet International Exchange Team [email protected] 07813363076

Rocky Mountain

Whitehorse

Argonaut

Cdt Sgt Mundell - Hampshire and Isle of Wight ACF Rocky Mountain Exchange 5 Platoon - Norquay

Adventure is not outside man; but within.

Like so many others have written Rocky Mountain cannot be summarised by a single moment of excellence but rather six weeks of outstanding. Outstanding opportunities, outstanding adventure and outstanding people.

Memories so rich even as I write this I cannot help but sit here with the biggest grin on my face. The Canadian exchange exceeded any expectations I had created, not by inches but miles, all the way to the Glaciers and back in fact. Not only did I learn about myself as a leader through the six weeks of challenges, but met so many special people who taught me the kind of person I now aspire to be.

People ask me how I could share a room with seven strangers for six weeks, but they weren't strangers even by the first day. Now after six weeks they are some of the greatest friends I will ever make.

A platoon I laughed with, I cried with but best of all I grew with and cared for. Although the time came to say goodbye I did not feel sad, only excited for the new adventures I am sure to come. For all the adventures I will have again with my newly found, lifelong friends.

Canada 2016 Canada Exchange July 2017 Apply on Westminster from October

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