16 Apr 07 - Corporal Sam Swaps Spring Sunshine For Winter Training
The Easter holidays saw a welcome break in the rain and the start of a couple of weeks of sunshine. But whilst most people were out enjoying the warm weather, Ripon air cadet Sam Davison was learning to ski and how to dig snow holes.
Cadet Corporal Sam Davison joined a party of air cadets from across the country and flew to Oberammegau in southern Germany to undertake the RAF's Basic Winter Training course. During the week long course, the cadets received skiing instruction from RAF Physical Training Instructors as well as unique training in creating snow holes, checking for avalanche conditions and other life saving techniques.
Cadets attending the course had a range of skiing abilities - from complete beginner to quite accomplished, and Sam found himself in the "middle" group for the ski training. This took up most of the course and all cadets were able to improve their skill levels.
On the final day of the course, students were taught valuable survival skills. Sam said: "When people go skiing they don't usually think about how they would survive if anything goes wrong. I hope I never have to use the survival skills I've learnt, but at least I'll be prepared in case the worst happens. It was worth missing the good weather at home, it was a fantastic week; not your average ski trip!"
Commanding Officer Flight Lieutenant Chris Crebbin said "Foreign trips like this are the highlight of any cadet's career. I'm really glad that Sam was able to take this opportunity."
Ripon squadron is currently recruiting new cadets aged 13 years or older and volunteer adult staff aged 20 and over. They meet at the Cadet Centre on Clotherholme Road every Tuesday and Friday from 7pm - 9.15pm. Anybody interested should contact the squadron on (01765) 609622 or email the commanding officer at oc886squadron@ceyorks.net.
ENDS
