Wiltshire soldiers take on army's toughest patrolling test
They covered 60km in two days
Soldiers and officers from eight Wiltshire based units have participated in Exercise Cambrian Patrol across the Brecon Beacons National Park, in what is regarded as NATO’s toughest patrolling test.
The 48-hour exercise involved navigating across 60km of undulating terrain in Mid Wales, carrying 35 kilograms and with a set of military tests to overcome, such as responding to quick battle attacks, chemical and biological threats, pinpointing artillery targets and a water crossing.
Of those Wiltshire teams who took part, two teams scooped the ‘gold’ award, which traditionally only five-per-cent of teams achieve.
Lieutenant Sholto Hanson, Platoon Leader, Household Cavalry Regiment based in Bulford said:
“The patrol as a whole is a brilliant opportunity to test the dismounted soldiering of our guys in the Household Cavalry and units across the British Army. It tests leadership, tests individuals from both a physical and mental perspective.
“It was my first time, as was the rest of my teammates, and it was great that Chief of the General Staff (CGS) came to visit, that shows the calibre of the competition. It is certainly something worthwhile doing.
“We got a silver medal which is not what we were hoping for but a good reason to come back next year and try and do one better.”
The exercise had a two year hiatus, but is the biggest of its kind.
Some foreign entrants have to claim the right to take part by winning their own domestic event.