Exhilarating, Energising and Exhausting
These three words perfectly sum up the action-packed week experienced by 14 West Buckland School CCF cadets, who participated in the Ex-Wyvern Cadet CCF Camp this summer at the Army Cadet Force Wiltshire and Yoxter Camps.
The camp was split over two sites and across two phases. The cadets undertook live firing with the SA80 A3 and L98A2 (Cadet GP rifle) and participated in extensive blank firing exercises, learning up to 3 STAR level fieldcraft under the guidance of highly motivated and experienced instructors from the 6 Rifles Reserves Cadet Training Team. The week began at Tilshead (Wiltshire ACF Camp) barracks, where cadets enjoyed wholesome meals and socialised with peers from other schools.
Live Firing at Battlesbury Range
Cadets had the rare opportunity to meet the UK’s top Bisley shooting team from the 5th Battalion The Rifles. They were guided in firing the SA80 A3 on the 25m barrack range, practiced faux grenade throwing, and tried on battle kit and arms, which together weighed the same as an adult! The day ended with a head-to-head competition, where Cpl Grace A emerged as the top firer out of all participating schools—an impressive feat!
Live Firing at Bulford
For many West Buckland cadets, firing in an open setting at a distance of 100 metres was a new experience. After several practice shoots to refine their marksmanship principles and body positioning, they concluded with a competition shoot. Cadet Fergus Roberts was the top firer, earning a 1st Class Marksman badge, while Sgt Noah C also joined the list of marksmanship achievers. Confidence grew as cadets helped each other with tasks at the Butts (target changing), rifle stripping and cleaning, and mastering proper rifle handling.
Phase 2 – Fieldcraft and Blank Firing Exercises (Yoxter Camp)
After a well-earned rest travelling to Yoxter near Cheddar, cadets prepared their first ORP (Ration Pack) meals. They maximised their calorie intake with dishes ranging from spicy curries to sticky toffee pudding, in preparation for the intense two days ahead. Prepping rifles and packing bergens, the cadets readied themselves for the upcoming field training.
Lessons began with “Why Things are Seen,” camouflage techniques, movement, and platoon organisation. The platoon was divided into three sections, appointing IC (In Command) and 2IC (Second in Command) roles. Sgt Noah C was appointed IC, and L/Cpl Archie J took on the 2IC role, immediately stepping up to guide their sections.
Patrolling across cattle-dotted farmland, cadets engaged in various battle drills, culminating in blank firing exercises as Charlie and Delta fire teams. Despite the tiring weight of webbing filled with rations, magazines, ear defence, and day sacks, the cadets persevered. After several hours of practice and a 3km march to the woodland edge, they set up their basha tents and rested before the evening exercise—an ambush.
The Ambush
As the sun set, cadets quietly positioned themselves in a grassy dip. The silence was suddenly broken by aggressive shouts and crackling sounds as the first platoon executed a loud, fire-cracking ambush, followed by a smoke screen. The adrenaline-fueled ambush was over in five minutes. West Buckland’s platoon then prepared for their turn, positioning themselves in a herringbone formation. The ICs conducted a reconnaissance and guided the platoon into position. With a flurry of activity, the cadets launched their ambush, creating a dramatic display of flashes and the smell of munitions filling the humid air.
After an evening of high-energy conversation and tired, happy faces, the cadets were ready for a well-deserved rest under canvas.
Final Day
Packing up their basha camp, weary but determined, the cadets learned 3 STAR lessons on harbours and attack tactics. By this point, they were efficient in drills, formations, communication, and roles. After several rehearsals, the final radio call signalled the pinnacle multi-enemy blank-firing exercise.
Final Attack
Approaching the hill’s crest, overlooking a calm valley, the cadets patrolled in a hollow-square formation, rifles ready. The distant sound of pap-papping marked the start of the exercise, followed by return fire and rapid movement towards enemy targets. The cadets executed their tactics flawlessly, reloading and advancing swiftly to take out the enemies, culminating in the climax of the week’s training.
Leaving the battle site, the cadets shared their best moments and reflected on their achievements as a team. The day ended with cleaning rifles and collecting blank cases from the field. The Cadet Training Team congratulated the cadets on their excellent participation and engagement, expressing strong approval for their return next year.
West Buckland cadets demonstrated determination, skill, and patience throughout the week, supporting each other during challenging times. They emerged as confident, self-motivated, and self-driven young individuals, ready to inspire the next generation of cadets with a sense of responsibility and leadership.
Written by
Liz Cwilewicz, Flying Officer RAFAC Contingent Commander | Staff School Instructor | RAF Section Commander
