Cadets benefit from training sessions

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is currently playing host to the 23rd Caribbean Cadet Camp (CCC), and according to camp Commandant Major Bertillon Hamilton of the SVG Cadet Corps, all activities planned so far have been successfully staged.{{more}}

The CCC which is based at the Bethel High School, Campden Park, runs from July 17 – 28, 2008, with a number of training opportunities being afforded to the young cadets representing seven Caribbean territories. The theme of this year’s camp is “The Caribbean Cadet Experience… A Unifying Force”

On Tuesday, July 22, cadets were given training in basic fire drills, emergency communications (Emcoms) and later that day a hike to the La Soufriere volcano, as part of their field training. The two-man team conducting the Fire training was led by Sgt. Charles Adams, while Director of the Rainbow Radio League, Donald De Riggs conducted three sessions on emergency communications and emergency message handling.

Other training programs include tactical training, marksmanship, operation of small engines including chain saws and portable generators, and a simulation exercise involving mass casualties.

Cadets are also given an opportunity to gain further training with certification through the Cadet Vocational Qualification Organisation (CVQO) and its BTECH program. The BTECH program offers training to improve valuable life skills in music, interviewing techniques, communication, first aid, adventure training, health and nutrition. Successful candidates receive a diploma which is equivalent to 4 GCSE passes. The course is a mix of theory, practical elements, with an emphasis on leadership, teamwork, communications, problem solving and fitness. Enrollment for the BTECH program is free for cadets.

On the lighter and more competitive side of the camp there was a road relay from Barroualie to Kingstown won by the Vincentians, while other competitive activities included a Tug-O-War, Drills, Physical Fitness, and Command Task.

This year, over 180 cadets from Antigua, Barbados, Cayman Islands, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago and SVG are attending the CCC. This is the 3rd occasion that SVG is hosting a regional camp, the last time being in 1996. (DD)