RAF Halton, established July 1914, is a non-technical ground training station which deals with initial training (usually 9 weeks) for all non-commissioned entrants to the Royal Air Force except the RAF regiment. With this in mind we were staying on one of the busiest and active RAF stations. On arrival we were sorted into flights and rooms before our initial brief, basic fire, health and safety followed by staff introductions. For the majority of the camp we were to be in uniform to distinguish us from the new civilian entrants as otherwise this would be impossible - some of the cadets were older than the recruits!
A dash through the rain to a long awaited tea was welcomed by all before setting out on our first Familiarization Exercise (Fam-ex). This involves exploring the RAF station and getting to know what’s what and where it is - making it easier for navigation later in the week.
Sunday was early up and an RAF cooked breakfast before the camp split in 2 groups; one for flying first and drill later and the other vise versa. After flying at RAF Benson 6AEF we returned to Halton ready to leave for bowling that evening. After a long day we couldn’t wait to get to bed and continue with the exciting week ahead.
Monday saw out first section visit; RTS or Recruit Training Squadron and then the Lord Trenchard Museum. Camp photo then off to the catering section for an insight into the business and training of the vital role. Monday night was planned the night-exercise so we cam creamed up and set off in our DPMs all syked for our missions. After a lesson in Cam and Concealment we were split into 4 sections to finish our given missions. Soon light levels dropped and we were working in the total darkness. Once completed we headed back to the barrack block.
Tuesday was met bleiry eyed and bleiry weathered as the usually morning routine of up, dress, breakfast and inspection commenced. We headed for the high ropes course on the station which was enjoyed by all. We then started training on the L98A1 rifle and carried this on for most of the afternoon. In the evening we were kept busy in the swimming pool with cadets participating in the basic and intermediate swimming competence awards and then chilling with a free swim.
Wednesday morning was a visit to the logistics training squadron where we experenced the full line of training and learnt about the most diverse trade in the air force. The afternoon saw Weapon’s Handling Tests, more training and drill followed by an orienteering exercise that afternoon based in the woods outside the station. In the evening we set off for our Physical Training session with huge games of rounders which was loved by all - especially the clear winners A Flight.
Thursday saw more weapons training and shooting with most cadets firing the L98A1. In the evening was the much anticipated drill competition held in the main drill hall at Halton and the occasion was marked by a Corporal with 9 years Queen’s Color Squadron experience. The competition was very close and everyone performed amazingly and compliments and crepitations were given out.
For our last real day on Friday we had a trip to Duxford Air Museum or training on the L98A2. Those that went to Duxford had an amazing time at one of the country’s best collections of airplanes and exhibitions. They were met by the lucky cadets trained on the A2 that evening for the camp’s final parade. The parade was taken by the Commanding Officer and he announced certain awards for best cadet, JNCO, SNCO, Shooter, New Cadet and more as well as announcing the winner of the inter-flight competition - B Flight. We then changed and set off for the camp disco. The disco was enjoyed by all - including the staff who joined in! It gave time and chance for more relaxed friendship building and start relationships that will last a very long time. After a short time packing we jumped into bed for our promised lie in - breakfast being pushed back almost an hour!
After an emotional last RAF meal we packed and cleaned and said good byes with the cadets ‘paper plate’ awards for fellow cadets and staff members. The final coach ride back North was slept by some exhausted cadets and staff while others spent the valuable time trading Facebook and MSN details and discussed plans for meeting up later.
On the whole everyone had an amazing week meeting new people, joining in with various activities, gaining experiences and lessons we will keep for a long time to come. We thank the staff who were with us and those at RAF Halton for making it a week to remember!
