Right, where to start. Started last week with our junior navigation exercise which we were all a bit nervous about, I certainly was, due to the fact that it was pass or fail, the latter resulting in a retest and a back term. I had a good go at it and came out with a decent score (3rd in the platoon). Unfortunately the platoons average score was very poor putting us in a bad position in the soviergns banner competition. Which our colour sergeant screamed at us all of that night.
We have also been getting heavily involved with DIA and war studies. getting our nose into academics. That combined with the PT sessions as well as the weighted marches have been keeping us busy.
We spent a couple of days last week getting through our initial marksmanship tests. I managed to pass with some decent scores.
I am currently sitting on the bus half way through a regimental visit to the Royal Military Police. We spent the morning on Bulford looking at the GPD (general police duties) section and the SIB (special investigation branch). It's been really informative, not to mention a good break from the Sandhurst bullshit. We get back tomorrow lunch tine which will be nice.
Can't remember what I've got this week, but I'll let you know asap.
Rob x
Tuesday 23 November 2010
Friday 12 November 2010
Day 62 - time flys...
Hello all! It's strange how quickly this last few days have gone. The first 5 weeks were dreadfully slow, however the last 4 have gone in a flash.
We are currently finishing week 9 which leaves only 5 more of this term. There has been an incredible amount of stuff going on so I won't have time to tell you all of it.
The level of PT is ever increasing, ranging from swimming, cardiovascular, running and circuit sessions. All of which leave you thoroughly knackered. Our ever popular weighted tabs have ramped up a little too. We had a 6 mile 18kg tab yesterday and a 6 mile 20kg tab tomorrow.
We have also been working hard on learning the combat estimate and the seven questions, in preparation for delivering orders. And we got our first chance to practise this on exercise deliberate strike which happened on Wednesday. Luckily the rain held off leaving a bitterly cold day, planning a platoon level attack that we would carry out as part of a wider company attack, later that day.
We also got our second long weekend which I spent with my mum and went to a motor show on the Sunday with my dad. Coming back after a relaxing weekend is still one of the hardest things to face here.
We are also busy planning a variety of events that are due to happen in the coming weeks including a platoon social, a company dinner night, company sports and the company skits night which I have been put in charge of. For those who don't know a skit is a play where we have the opportunity to take the piss out of the directing staff without fear of discipline. Ours is shaping up to be pretty borderline contraversial. We have also just been told of our junior navigation exercise competition that happens on Monday.
Another interesting subject we have started is called defence and international affairs which is interesting and a nice change from the physical aspects of the course. Teaching us everything from military doctrine to the laws of armed conflict. We have also been set our commondants war studies essay which we are to finish by next term, another chance to exercise our brains.
There is far too much to say so I won't bore you any more. All that is left to say is I'm thinking of you all, and hope to see you soon.
Also you are useless at sending me these pictures guys! Sort it out!
Night night.
We are currently finishing week 9 which leaves only 5 more of this term. There has been an incredible amount of stuff going on so I won't have time to tell you all of it.
The level of PT is ever increasing, ranging from swimming, cardiovascular, running and circuit sessions. All of which leave you thoroughly knackered. Our ever popular weighted tabs have ramped up a little too. We had a 6 mile 18kg tab yesterday and a 6 mile 20kg tab tomorrow.
We have also been working hard on learning the combat estimate and the seven questions, in preparation for delivering orders. And we got our first chance to practise this on exercise deliberate strike which happened on Wednesday. Luckily the rain held off leaving a bitterly cold day, planning a platoon level attack that we would carry out as part of a wider company attack, later that day.
We also got our second long weekend which I spent with my mum and went to a motor show on the Sunday with my dad. Coming back after a relaxing weekend is still one of the hardest things to face here.
We are also busy planning a variety of events that are due to happen in the coming weeks including a platoon social, a company dinner night, company sports and the company skits night which I have been put in charge of. For those who don't know a skit is a play where we have the opportunity to take the piss out of the directing staff without fear of discipline. Ours is shaping up to be pretty borderline contraversial. We have also just been told of our junior navigation exercise competition that happens on Monday.
Another interesting subject we have started is called defence and international affairs which is interesting and a nice change from the physical aspects of the course. Teaching us everything from military doctrine to the laws of armed conflict. We have also been set our commondants war studies essay which we are to finish by next term, another chance to exercise our brains.
There is far too much to say so I won't bore you any more. All that is left to say is I'm thinking of you all, and hope to see you soon.
Also you are useless at sending me these pictures guys! Sort it out!
Night night.
Tuesday 2 November 2010
Day 50 - progress made
So another week has passed since my last message so there should hopefully be lots to talk about.
Since returning from long reach the PT has ramped up a fair amount with PT Monday, double PT Tuesday, loaded march and PT on Wednesday with academy sports in the afternoon. We then had exercise first attack on Friday which was a full day of section attacks one after another, which was the best day I've had so far.
We returned thoroughly knackered and were 'volunteered' to do an inter company sports competition on the Saturday. I was lucky enough to in the cross country team, pffft. Saying that I did enjoy myself, I did the 6.3 mile course in 43 minutes which isn't too bad I suppose.
Sunday came round and we had Old College Sunday where our parents were invited to come and see what we do, and to have the chance to show off a little. We got dressed up, did some stands, chapel and a march past. It was a great day. We went out as a family to cinema but I fell asleep through most of it so I can't tell you what the film was about.
I went to bed at 2030 that night which was epic.
Yesterday we had a full day of range shooting, and today is all about the 7 questions and orders. Tonight I've been invited for drinks with the Royal Military Police which should be good.
We also had our progress board invterviews last week where we were told how well we are doing. The platoon is split up into the top, middle and bottom thirds. And I'm relieved that I am in the top third.
Anyway I've got to get back to lessons. Speak to you all soon!
Rob x
P.s I'm still waiting for you to send me some photos!
Since returning from long reach the PT has ramped up a fair amount with PT Monday, double PT Tuesday, loaded march and PT on Wednesday with academy sports in the afternoon. We then had exercise first attack on Friday which was a full day of section attacks one after another, which was the best day I've had so far.
We returned thoroughly knackered and were 'volunteered' to do an inter company sports competition on the Saturday. I was lucky enough to in the cross country team, pffft. Saying that I did enjoy myself, I did the 6.3 mile course in 43 minutes which isn't too bad I suppose.
Sunday came round and we had Old College Sunday where our parents were invited to come and see what we do, and to have the chance to show off a little. We got dressed up, did some stands, chapel and a march past. It was a great day. We went out as a family to cinema but I fell asleep through most of it so I can't tell you what the film was about.
I went to bed at 2030 that night which was epic.
Yesterday we had a full day of range shooting, and today is all about the 7 questions and orders. Tonight I've been invited for drinks with the Royal Military Police which should be good.
We also had our progress board invterviews last week where we were told how well we are doing. The platoon is split up into the top, middle and bottom thirds. And I'm relieved that I am in the top third.
Anyway I've got to get back to lessons. Speak to you all soon!
Rob x
P.s I'm still waiting for you to send me some photos!
Monday 25 October 2010
Day 43 - exercise Long Reach
Hello all! Sorry it's been so long since my last message. It's been absolutely manic over the last few days.
We returned back from Long reach at lunch time on Friday after what was effectively 70km in tough terrain in 35 hours, including 9 1hour command task check points and 5 unmanned check points. We completed the task in time, 33 hours, which was not as good as some of the other teams but we were happy with our result. It was not an easy exercise, infact it was one of hardest things I've ever done. Dealing with the exhaustion was difficult enough, but throw in the navigation, the command tasks and the below freezing temperatures at the top of the mountains made it almost unbearable. But we are all done and fully rested.
The last couple of days have been full with post exercise admin and lots more lessons. Including the first of our war studies lessons.
In a lesson last week we were asked to tell a joke in the lecture theatre in front of everyone, which I gladly did, but have unfortunately become the company joker, having to start and end major lectures with a joke. I'm not sure our company commander is a fan of some of my jokes but everyone else seems to love them. I just need to be careful not to get in trouble haha.
Anyway that's all for now. Speak soon!
Rob xx
We returned back from Long reach at lunch time on Friday after what was effectively 70km in tough terrain in 35 hours, including 9 1hour command task check points and 5 unmanned check points. We completed the task in time, 33 hours, which was not as good as some of the other teams but we were happy with our result. It was not an easy exercise, infact it was one of hardest things I've ever done. Dealing with the exhaustion was difficult enough, but throw in the navigation, the command tasks and the below freezing temperatures at the top of the mountains made it almost unbearable. But we are all done and fully rested.
The last couple of days have been full with post exercise admin and lots more lessons. Including the first of our war studies lessons.
In a lesson last week we were asked to tell a joke in the lecture theatre in front of everyone, which I gladly did, but have unfortunately become the company joker, having to start and end major lectures with a joke. I'm not sure our company commander is a fan of some of my jokes but everyone else seems to love them. I just need to be careful not to get in trouble haha.
Anyway that's all for now. Speak soon!
Rob xx
Tuesday 19 October 2010
Day 37 - ready for the off!
Hi guys! Spent the last two days running around like headless chickens trying to get ready for exercise long reach, going on weighted marches, PT and a number of lectures.
The extra 20 minutes in bed are a God send however the freedoms we thought we gained for completing weeks 1-5 are none existant, as we have to do everything the same as before anyway. The only difference being that we can get show parades now (rocking up at the guard room at 21.30 to be reinspected) which half of the platoon was lucky to get this morning, but not me luckily.
Today's nutrition lecture was one of the sleepiest we've had, which unfortunately didn't go un-noticed by the colour sergeants. We then spent the next half an hour being beasted, to apparently 'wake us up'. But in truth just tired us out more.
Anyway I better get some sleep for the exercise!
We are allowed some pictures up in our rooms now so if you could send me some classic pictures of yourselves to cheer me up when I'm feeling low!
Wish me luck!
Rob
The extra 20 minutes in bed are a God send however the freedoms we thought we gained for completing weeks 1-5 are none existant, as we have to do everything the same as before anyway. The only difference being that we can get show parades now (rocking up at the guard room at 21.30 to be reinspected) which half of the platoon was lucky to get this morning, but not me luckily.
Today's nutrition lecture was one of the sleepiest we've had, which unfortunately didn't go un-noticed by the colour sergeants. We then spent the next half an hour being beasted, to apparently 'wake us up'. But in truth just tired us out more.
Anyway I better get some sleep for the exercise!
We are allowed some pictures up in our rooms now so if you could send me some classic pictures of yourselves to cheer me up when I'm feeling low!
Wish me luck!
Rob
Monday 18 October 2010
Day 35 - back in!
Just returned to Sandhurst after my first weekend off and to say that I wasn't looking forward to it would be an understatement. However that being said now that I have arrived I'm much more positive and being back with the blokes makes it much better.
I spent my weekend sleeping, eating, drinking and seeing mates, among other things. It was awesome to see everyone and download some of the stories and blow off some steam. Just a shame the weekend went so quickly!
Now that we are back our platoons game of duvet secret Santa can commence. I bought my partner a fetching hannah montana set which he was exstatic about! Whilst I recieved an equally fetching pink little miss sunshine set. The room is already feeling more personal.
This week we are mostly prepping for long reach and completing communication and applied behavioral sciences (cab) discussions. And tomorrow morning kicks off with a 6 mile 14kg loaded march at 7.30, fun fun fun.
Just got to get back into the swing of things and work hard.
Hope everyone is well!
Rob
I spent my weekend sleeping, eating, drinking and seeing mates, among other things. It was awesome to see everyone and download some of the stories and blow off some steam. Just a shame the weekend went so quickly!
Now that we are back our platoons game of duvet secret Santa can commence. I bought my partner a fetching hannah montana set which he was exstatic about! Whilst I recieved an equally fetching pink little miss sunshine set. The room is already feeling more personal.
This week we are mostly prepping for long reach and completing communication and applied behavioral sciences (cab) discussions. And tomorrow morning kicks off with a 6 mile 14kg loaded march at 7.30, fun fun fun.
Just got to get back into the swing of things and work hard.
Hope everyone is well!
Rob
Tuesday 12 October 2010
Day 30 - nearly over!
The last few days have been the busiest of my life. The main focus being prepping for Exercise Long Reach which takes place in the Black Mountains in Wales next week. In our teams we have been planning the route and all of the information/kit to complete the 60-80km navigation exercise that must be completed in less than 35 hours.
We have also been hammering the drill square in preparation for our drill test on Thursday. Desperatley revising the list of academy personalities which we are tested on. So far we have been pretty good, let's hope we can keep it up.
We also got our scores for the navigation assessment which I came joint first, which I was massively happy with.
We are also deep in prep for our final inspections which we must pass, along with the drill, navigation and cis test, to be 'taken off weeks 1-5'. Room inspections get less, we can personalise our rooms a bit, wear the RMAS stable belt and stop calling out the timings when doing drill. Anyone who fails will continue to do it until they are retested in week 8.
Everyone is now just counting down these last two nights before we get a well deserved weekend off. So if you are around this weekend and want to have a drink let me know.
Rob
We have also been hammering the drill square in preparation for our drill test on Thursday. Desperatley revising the list of academy personalities which we are tested on. So far we have been pretty good, let's hope we can keep it up.
We also got our scores for the navigation assessment which I came joint first, which I was massively happy with.
We are also deep in prep for our final inspections which we must pass, along with the drill, navigation and cis test, to be 'taken off weeks 1-5'. Room inspections get less, we can personalise our rooms a bit, wear the RMAS stable belt and stop calling out the timings when doing drill. Anyone who fails will continue to do it until they are retested in week 8.
Everyone is now just counting down these last two nights before we get a well deserved weekend off. So if you are around this weekend and want to have a drink let me know.
Rob
Saturday 9 October 2010
Day 26 - Exercise Self Reliance
Exercise Self Reliance, or exercise self abuse as it is affectionately nicknamed, consisted of the following:
Getting very wet
Getting very cold
Getting little to no sleep
Lot and lots of digging
Section attacks over and over again
A long heavy tab until midnight
An extraction tab this morning for 7km
But you know what, once we reached the finish point it was all worth it. The sense of achievement out weighed the bad times. It also gave the platoon a chance to get to know each other better.
Many of the platoon suffered with prickely heat which is only cured by being scrubbed down with water, normally in the shower with a willing volunteer scrubber.
One of the lads made the mistake of confusing a large rock with a CWS (common weapons sight) and was forced to carry said rock for the remainder of the exercise. Much to his disgust and our amusement.
We returned to camp absolutely shattered and spent the rest of the day cleaning weapons and kit, which I think we were happy to do considering the alternative.
It is only 5 days until our first leave weekend, with only a few horrifically busy days separating the two. The main challenge being the passing off the square drill competition, which we are now sick of rehearsing. We have now been issued our smart 'blues' uniform which we will have to get ready for the competition too.
I am missing everyone like mad, but as you are aware I'm being kept busy so my mind is on other things.
See you all very soon!
Rob
Getting very wet
Getting very cold
Getting little to no sleep
Lot and lots of digging
Section attacks over and over again
A long heavy tab until midnight
An extraction tab this morning for 7km
But you know what, once we reached the finish point it was all worth it. The sense of achievement out weighed the bad times. It also gave the platoon a chance to get to know each other better.
Many of the platoon suffered with prickely heat which is only cured by being scrubbed down with water, normally in the shower with a willing volunteer scrubber.
One of the lads made the mistake of confusing a large rock with a CWS (common weapons sight) and was forced to carry said rock for the remainder of the exercise. Much to his disgust and our amusement.
We returned to camp absolutely shattered and spent the rest of the day cleaning weapons and kit, which I think we were happy to do considering the alternative.
It is only 5 days until our first leave weekend, with only a few horrifically busy days separating the two. The main challenge being the passing off the square drill competition, which we are now sick of rehearsing. We have now been issued our smart 'blues' uniform which we will have to get ready for the competition too.
I am missing everyone like mad, but as you are aware I'm being kept busy so my mind is on other things.
See you all very soon!
Rob
Monday 4 October 2010
Day 22 - off we go
Woke up today to find we were carrying out a 4 mile weighted march, in yes you guessed it, the pouring rain! However wasn't too bad and we all felt pretty good when we got back in. We had a couple of lectures then 3 hours of drill on the square. I think it is safe to say that we all felt pretty achey after that. I was then sent to get root canal treatment at the dentist which is pretty sore at the moment. We then spent the evening cleaning rifles and prepping our kit for the exercise we leave for tomorrow.
Exercise self reliance is a 4 day ex to put together the skills we have learnt thus far. And also to teach us a bit more. We are expecting lots of rain, lots of digging and to return on Friday absolutely knackered.
On another note our colour sergeant has now left due to his hernia and has been replaced by another. What he will be like I don't know, I'll keep you updated on that.
Thanks to all those who read this and my next blog will be up on Friday when I return!
Think of me when you are warm and cozy in your beds at night.
Rob
Exercise self reliance is a 4 day ex to put together the skills we have learnt thus far. And also to teach us a bit more. We are expecting lots of rain, lots of digging and to return on Friday absolutely knackered.
On another note our colour sergeant has now left due to his hernia and has been replaced by another. What he will be like I don't know, I'll keep you updated on that.
Thanks to all those who read this and my next blog will be up on Friday when I return!
Think of me when you are warm and cozy in your beds at night.
Rob
Sunday 3 October 2010
Day 20 - absolutely gibbering...
It's strange how the English language is changed to suit the environment it's in. How almost every word has an army equivalent. Today's word is gibbering, which apparently means to be very cold, or shivering. Which is exactly what the entire company found itself doing over last nights field exercise.
Apparently the area hadn't seen rain like it in the last 10 years, and that's what it did all day and all night. Everything was wet, down to the underpants. Trying to learn the complexities of range cards, duties of a sentry and camoflague and concealment is hard enough for some. Throw in a few gallons of water at a horizontal angle and it's near impossible.
We did however survive the long night, and the beasting we all recieved the following morning for not being quick enough, just in time for a CIS lesson, followed by a 4 hour navigation exercise. Apparently the rest of the night was our own, buy in the army there is no such thing as our own, it's the armys own. So we spent our 'own' time cleaning and prepping our dirty kit for Tuesday.
One of the overseas cadets came to speak to me today because he was feeling home sick among other things and I can't say I blame him, its gard enough knowing your family and friends are a few hundred miles away but imagine them being thousands of miles away. We ended up chatting for an hour only stopping because we needed to finish kit. I hope he feels happier soon.
Bye bye!
Rob
Apparently the area hadn't seen rain like it in the last 10 years, and that's what it did all day and all night. Everything was wet, down to the underpants. Trying to learn the complexities of range cards, duties of a sentry and camoflague and concealment is hard enough for some. Throw in a few gallons of water at a horizontal angle and it's near impossible.
We did however survive the long night, and the beasting we all recieved the following morning for not being quick enough, just in time for a CIS lesson, followed by a 4 hour navigation exercise. Apparently the rest of the night was our own, buy in the army there is no such thing as our own, it's the armys own. So we spent our 'own' time cleaning and prepping our dirty kit for Tuesday.
One of the overseas cadets came to speak to me today because he was feeling home sick among other things and I can't say I blame him, its gard enough knowing your family and friends are a few hundred miles away but imagine them being thousands of miles away. We ended up chatting for an hour only stopping because we needed to finish kit. I hope he feels happier soon.
Bye bye!
Rob
Thursday 30 September 2010
Day 18 - not much to report
I've had a good couple of days getting more regiment presentations, PT and drill. The instructors are trying more and more inventive ways of keeping us awake and even more inventive ways to punish us if we do. The funniest being hugging the person to your left in the middle of the lecture theatre.
The guys with glasses were issued their military glasses today so we have a collection of Ronnie lookalikes in the platoon.
This evening was spent prepping kit for our first field exercise that leaves tomorrow, maticulously taping up straps and labeling kit. I have a funny feeling it's going to be harder than it's being made out, but we'll see.
The next one will be longer I promise, when I've got some time to write it properly.
Rob
The guys with glasses were issued their military glasses today so we have a collection of Ronnie lookalikes in the platoon.
This evening was spent prepping kit for our first field exercise that leaves tomorrow, maticulously taping up straps and labeling kit. I have a funny feeling it's going to be harder than it's being made out, but we'll see.
The next one will be longer I promise, when I've got some time to write it properly.
Rob
Wednesday 29 September 2010
Day 16 - half way there
The length of days almost make them feel like two. Anything before lunchtime is the day before in our minds.
We have reached the half way point and I am still here. All be it a very tired version of me. The last two days have been concentrating on choice of arm selection, which basically consists if being subjected to shiny presentations from all of the regiments and corps of the army with the intent of recruiting you later on. In a couple of weeks we will have to express an interest in two regiments which you will confirm subject to interviews etc.
We also conducted rifle shooting on the DCCT, which is basically a life size computer game, which I got the highest score obviously. We also conducted grenade throwing training and tests as well as a night navigation exercise in the rain.
We are now preparing for our first field exercise that leaves Friday, and then again on Tuesday for a further three nights.
We are still working hard as a team, working for the duty cadet which I had the pleasure of fulfilling today.
2 weeks and 1 day and I'll be back. Not that I'm counting.
Keep the texts and messages coming!
Rob
We have reached the half way point and I am still here. All be it a very tired version of me. The last two days have been concentrating on choice of arm selection, which basically consists if being subjected to shiny presentations from all of the regiments and corps of the army with the intent of recruiting you later on. In a couple of weeks we will have to express an interest in two regiments which you will confirm subject to interviews etc.
We also conducted rifle shooting on the DCCT, which is basically a life size computer game, which I got the highest score obviously. We also conducted grenade throwing training and tests as well as a night navigation exercise in the rain.
We are now preparing for our first field exercise that leaves Friday, and then again on Tuesday for a further three nights.
We are still working hard as a team, working for the duty cadet which I had the pleasure of fulfilling today.
2 weeks and 1 day and I'll be back. Not that I'm counting.
Keep the texts and messages coming!
Rob
Sunday 26 September 2010
Day 14 - it's the little things!
The last few days have been quite good. particularly today, we had chapel service today, so we all got dressed up and went down to church for a few hours. It was a welcome relax for most, including those that fell asleep, only to be abruptly woken buy a very angry RSM.
We were then given a couple of hours to sort our personal administration out, most of which was spent asleep. But the best thing was that today we were able to take our cars for a spin around camp to stop the battery becoming flat. Those 15 minutes were carefree with no worries about being late for anything or having a colour sergeant breathing down your neck. We all thought about making a dash for the gate but knew the consequences would be dire. We returned to the car park only to find one of the lads in our platoons car rolling away, with him stopping it. Turns out the handbreak gets stuck on so he never puts it on. It's still in the car park, God knows where now though.
This week hopes to be good with a field exercise, some range work and the begginings of our choice of arm instruction. Tomorrow we are getting lessons on instructional techniques which should be interesting.
I've got my room done in quick time today so I'll be in bed this side of midnight!
Rob
We were then given a couple of hours to sort our personal administration out, most of which was spent asleep. But the best thing was that today we were able to take our cars for a spin around camp to stop the battery becoming flat. Those 15 minutes were carefree with no worries about being late for anything or having a colour sergeant breathing down your neck. We all thought about making a dash for the gate but knew the consequences would be dire. We returned to the car park only to find one of the lads in our platoons car rolling away, with him stopping it. Turns out the handbreak gets stuck on so he never puts it on. It's still in the car park, God knows where now though.
This week hopes to be good with a field exercise, some range work and the begginings of our choice of arm instruction. Tomorrow we are getting lessons on instructional techniques which should be interesting.
I've got my room done in quick time today so I'll be in bed this side of midnight!
Rob
Friday 24 September 2010
Day 12 - what's next?
The first five weeks, we were told, were suppose to shock the 'civilian-ness' out of us, which it is definately in the process of doing. But what we weren't told was just the sheer amount of information we were going to be taking on board.
If we aren't learning the safe handling of weapons or learning new drill techniques on the square, we are cramming officer leadership and management methodologies along side information communication systems concepts. The whole time attempting to keep our heads down, avoiding the enevitable shouting session that a variety of officers and NCOs are itching to deal us. Speaking of which I had my first run in with the CSM, the less said about it the better.
We had a historical tour around RMAS today which was a welcome break from the normally busy schedule, which was actually really interesting. We also got a lecture from the commandant about Army Ethos. he told us that when he was at Sandhurst he weighed 7 stone 9, so it's not just me a skinny as a rake! it wasn't all pleasantries as one of our overseas cadets found out though when he fell asleep during the speech, we all found it utterly hillarious when he came to, and muttered something in Arabic, which only added to the generals anger.
Tomorrow we are going to Aldershot training area to practise some nav ex skills, our first trip out of camp!
Unfortunately we have a platoon commanders room inspection tomorrow morning so I better get some sleep to give me time to finish my room in the morning.
I hope everyone is doing well in my absence. 2 weeks 6 days and I'm back. YAY!
Rob
If we aren't learning the safe handling of weapons or learning new drill techniques on the square, we are cramming officer leadership and management methodologies along side information communication systems concepts. The whole time attempting to keep our heads down, avoiding the enevitable shouting session that a variety of officers and NCOs are itching to deal us. Speaking of which I had my first run in with the CSM, the less said about it the better.
We had a historical tour around RMAS today which was a welcome break from the normally busy schedule, which was actually really interesting. We also got a lecture from the commandant about Army Ethos. he told us that when he was at Sandhurst he weighed 7 stone 9, so it's not just me a skinny as a rake! it wasn't all pleasantries as one of our overseas cadets found out though when he fell asleep during the speech, we all found it utterly hillarious when he came to, and muttered something in Arabic, which only added to the generals anger.
Tomorrow we are going to Aldershot training area to practise some nav ex skills, our first trip out of camp!
Unfortunately we have a platoon commanders room inspection tomorrow morning so I better get some sleep to give me time to finish my room in the morning.
I hope everyone is doing well in my absence. 2 weeks 6 days and I'm back. YAY!
Rob
Wednesday 22 September 2010
Day 10 - routine, routine, routine.
Today comprised of a series of weapons handling and communication information systems lessons. For whom many of use already know, but we still give it our all to seem interested.
The whole platoon is starting to get use to our colour sergeant banging on about routine. Morning routine, training routine, evening routine. Everything is set up to so that we get use to an order of doing things. The only problem is that it is intentionally designed to be so long that it is impossible to fully meet the required tasks in time. Finally realising this we set a limit of when to go to bed and we stick to it. It doesn't make staying awake in lessons any easier but it just takes the edge of it.
We've also started to pick up little tips and tricks not only to make our jobs easier but also to get one over on the DS. Today we sent a team to get a stash of chocolate bars for the platoon, which was the best tasting treat I've had in a long time.
It's funny how you look forward to the little things, like 5 minute breaks, meal times (no matter how short they are), the occasional choclately sweet or the most morale lifting if all, messages home from friends and family, whether it's a full blown letter, a facebook message or even a text. The entire platoon suddenly chirps up when 22.00 comes along because we can have our phones back for a while.
On a sad note we lost one of the platoon today, he decided that army life was not for him and was offered a high paying job in the alcohol industry, he goes home tomorrow. He will be missed and no-one blames him for what he is doing, good luck buddy!
Anyway I'm knackered. Until next time!
Rob xx
The whole platoon is starting to get use to our colour sergeant banging on about routine. Morning routine, training routine, evening routine. Everything is set up to so that we get use to an order of doing things. The only problem is that it is intentionally designed to be so long that it is impossible to fully meet the required tasks in time. Finally realising this we set a limit of when to go to bed and we stick to it. It doesn't make staying awake in lessons any easier but it just takes the edge of it.
We've also started to pick up little tips and tricks not only to make our jobs easier but also to get one over on the DS. Today we sent a team to get a stash of chocolate bars for the platoon, which was the best tasting treat I've had in a long time.
It's funny how you look forward to the little things, like 5 minute breaks, meal times (no matter how short they are), the occasional choclately sweet or the most morale lifting if all, messages home from friends and family, whether it's a full blown letter, a facebook message or even a text. The entire platoon suddenly chirps up when 22.00 comes along because we can have our phones back for a while.
On a sad note we lost one of the platoon today, he decided that army life was not for him and was offered a high paying job in the alcohol industry, he goes home tomorrow. He will be missed and no-one blames him for what he is doing, good luck buddy!
Anyway I'm knackered. Until next time!
Rob xx
Sunday 19 September 2010
Day 7 - Ouch!
Today has been a strange day. Lots of drill, followed by more lessons where a stream of nodding heads from over tired cadets is always found, followed by my personal fitness assessment (which I passed by the way). The day was going well! That was until I played some basketball and twisted my ankle.
I spent the remainder of the evening in various medical waiting rooms waiting to have an x-ray, luckily it's not broken and I'm on my feet so it's back to normal tomorrow!
I'm still waiting for you guys to send me a variety of chocolate and sweets in aid parcels!
Rob
I spent the remainder of the evening in various medical waiting rooms waiting to have an x-ray, luckily it's not broken and I'm on my feet so it's back to normal tomorrow!
I'm still waiting for you guys to send me a variety of chocolate and sweets in aid parcels!
Rob
Friday 17 September 2010
Day 5 - zzzZZZzzzZZZ
I'm feeling a bit sleepy writing this it has to be said.
Every morning we wake up and get 'on the line' (stood in a line outside our rooms) we all sing the national anthem which is then followed by downing a litre bottle of water, for some it is a gag inducing event, but it sets up our hydration for the day. We get ready, sort out our rooms and are ready to start the first lesson of the day. Today we had signals, weapon handling, a visit to the academy library, where we proceeded to fill our pockets up with sweets left unguarded at the reception. We had a gym induction and fitness test and a few more introductory lectures on PT, sport and chaplaincy. We all love the padres because they are a ray of humanity in an otherwise more angry cloudy day.
This evening was spent ironing yet more kit, 'squaring' our rooms away aswell as several hours of boot bulling, which I don't really mind because we can all sit together and chat merrily away whilst shining our shoes. I then spent another hour typing up stuff for the platoon. That's what I get for admitting my degree.
8 platoon is getting on well now, we are all becoming really close, our drill is coming on leaps and bounds and we are avoiding more of the telling offs. We have been joined by 3 overseas cadets, a Saudi, a Jordainian and a Bahraini, who are a real key part of the team. They are funny to be with and are always smiling... mostly.
I am missing home but I am having a good time here despite the tiredness. But as the commandant says "look to the finish".
I wonder if anyone is actually reading this stuff.
Until next time,
Rob.
Every morning we wake up and get 'on the line' (stood in a line outside our rooms) we all sing the national anthem which is then followed by downing a litre bottle of water, for some it is a gag inducing event, but it sets up our hydration for the day. We get ready, sort out our rooms and are ready to start the first lesson of the day. Today we had signals, weapon handling, a visit to the academy library, where we proceeded to fill our pockets up with sweets left unguarded at the reception. We had a gym induction and fitness test and a few more introductory lectures on PT, sport and chaplaincy. We all love the padres because they are a ray of humanity in an otherwise more angry cloudy day.
This evening was spent ironing yet more kit, 'squaring' our rooms away aswell as several hours of boot bulling, which I don't really mind because we can all sit together and chat merrily away whilst shining our shoes. I then spent another hour typing up stuff for the platoon. That's what I get for admitting my degree.
8 platoon is getting on well now, we are all becoming really close, our drill is coming on leaps and bounds and we are avoiding more of the telling offs. We have been joined by 3 overseas cadets, a Saudi, a Jordainian and a Bahraini, who are a real key part of the team. They are funny to be with and are always smiling... mostly.
I am missing home but I am having a good time here despite the tiredness. But as the commandant says "look to the finish".
I wonder if anyone is actually reading this stuff.
Until next time,
Rob.
Wednesday 15 September 2010
Day 3
The past few days have been unbelievably busy, we have been going none stop. We march at about a million miles an hour from lecture to lesson, only stopping for food which is consumed as quickly as we march.
The last 2 days have consisted of a number of lectures ranging from infantry platoon composition to finance and administration. We met the padres who are all top blokes and really nice to chat to. We were issued our uniforms which we've spent both evenings labelling and ironing. We've had various weapons demonstrations, drill lessons (lots of them!), a military swimming test and lots more kit has been issued.
Part of us longs for a classroom lesson just to rest our legs, but that longing fades when the warm cozy hall means you find the sleeping monster creeping up on you, which results in standing up in front of the whole company (not to me yet!).
The camera crew are focusing on one of the other companies so we don't get hassled by them often.
I have so much to say but it's 01.45 and I'm up at 5 so I'll write more when I can.
I'm still missing you all but I'm getting on alright here and I'm keeping happy!
Rob
The last 2 days have consisted of a number of lectures ranging from infantry platoon composition to finance and administration. We met the padres who are all top blokes and really nice to chat to. We were issued our uniforms which we've spent both evenings labelling and ironing. We've had various weapons demonstrations, drill lessons (lots of them!), a military swimming test and lots more kit has been issued.
Part of us longs for a classroom lesson just to rest our legs, but that longing fades when the warm cozy hall means you find the sleeping monster creeping up on you, which results in standing up in front of the whole company (not to me yet!).
The camera crew are focusing on one of the other companies so we don't get hassled by them often.
I have so much to say but it's 01.45 and I'm up at 5 so I'll write more when I can.
I'm still missing you all but I'm getting on alright here and I'm keeping happy!
Rob
Monday 13 September 2010
Day 1 - the chaos begins
I arrived today with mixed emotions about the future that lies ahead of me. Part of me was riddled with anxiety about the challenges that await me. The other part was excited to see if I was up to the task and keen to get going.
We were rushed to our accomodation and dropped off our kit, the mass piles of bags and an impressively long line of ironing boards were a sight to see. We said our goodbyes and the admin started. We were split into companies and platoons and got to meet our colour sergeants for the first time. Ours was a laid back Scot from the 4th scotts. We spent the next 8 hours being forcefed a huge amount of information which we all did our bests to remember. We were then given a couple of hours to complete some tasks for the next day, which took me up until now, 01.30.
It's been busy, or emotional as our colour sergeant would say, but an enlightening day none the less. And I've met some really good blokes too. Tomorrow the real work starts, and at 5.30 I might add!
I hope everyone is well, I am thinking of you all.
If you want to send me letters and/or parcels (and please do) the address is
30046643, OCdt McCrea
8 Platoon
Burma Coy
The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst
GU154PQ
That's all for now!
We were rushed to our accomodation and dropped off our kit, the mass piles of bags and an impressively long line of ironing boards were a sight to see. We said our goodbyes and the admin started. We were split into companies and platoons and got to meet our colour sergeants for the first time. Ours was a laid back Scot from the 4th scotts. We spent the next 8 hours being forcefed a huge amount of information which we all did our bests to remember. We were then given a couple of hours to complete some tasks for the next day, which took me up until now, 01.30.
It's been busy, or emotional as our colour sergeant would say, but an enlightening day none the less. And I've met some really good blokes too. Tomorrow the real work starts, and at 5.30 I might add!
I hope everyone is well, I am thinking of you all.
If you want to send me letters and/or parcels (and please do) the address is
30046643, OCdt McCrea
8 Platoon
Burma Coy
The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst
GU154PQ
That's all for now!
Friday 3 September 2010
Royal Military Academy Sandhurst - Rob McCrea
I've had countless friends and family asking me to keep them informed of my 'activities' at Sandhurst. Unfortunately I am fully aware that the little free time I will have, combined with the number of people who want to be kept informed, will make it almost impossible via mobile phone. So I have created this blog that I can cleverly attached to my mobile phone so I can jot down some thoughts and feelings (when I have the time) all in one place.
It will also mean that hopefully I can get some motivational and sympathetic comments from friends and family, and maybe even some fans!
Keep an eye here for posts as and when they arrive.
Rob
It will also mean that hopefully I can get some motivational and sympathetic comments from friends and family, and maybe even some fans!
Keep an eye here for posts as and when they arrive.
Rob
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