In the first week of the holiday, whilst many students were jetting off to the far reaches of the globe, 15 intrepid cadets boarded a coach for the 14 hour journey to the home of 39 Engineer Regiment in Kinloss, Scotland.

Accommodation almost rivalled that of the RAF – we were in the WO and Sgts Mess, with single on suite rooms, a far change from normal summer camps. With 5 days of activity ahead of us, we started with paintballing and white water rafting followed by an insight into the Engineers by the CO of the Regiment, Lt Col Walker and then a chance to look at mine detection equipment, GPMG and pistols. The third day consisted of an attempt of the obstacle course and then the opportunity to go searching for Nessie with a tour of the Loch Ness Visitor Centre and a boat ride on the famous loch. We then tried the DCCT before deploying overnight to the training area with lessons on navigation, close target recce and patrolling. Unfortunately there were a few wasp nests in the vicinity and a few of us ended up being stung! The night exercise concluded with a sneaky beaky crawling activity to recce an enemy position.

The following day included a visit to Fort George and a quick look to try and see the dolphins (no joy) and then a tour of the last battle to be fought on British soil, Culloden and a lesson on historic swordfighting. The day finished with a BBQ and an incredible sunset on the beach.

Many thanks to 39 Engineer Regimen, Major Prem and WO2 Thapa for organising the camp and giving up their time and expertise.

Major Millbery