Two minibuses departed from Ulverscroft Road at 06:30 sharp for the over two-hour journey to Ipswich. The day featured a variety of activities (detailed below) designed to expose cadets to military roles beyond frontline soldiering, with a particular emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
کمیونٹی مصروفیت
Community Engagement (CE) remains a key priority across the entire Army, requiring persistent and consistent efforts to connect with the public. Engaging with cadets provides an excellent opportunity for the Battalion to connect with the public. Every team member played a vital role in creating a series of displays that delivered a lasting and memorable experience for all involved. The aim of the event was to raise awareness, spark interest, and encourage future commitment from those who may wish to pursue careers in STEM or the military.
سرگرمیاں
The cadets participated in the following activities:
- Weapons Stand
The stand had an Officer in Charge (OIC) and 2 supporting Service Personnel (SP) from 70 Coy and demonstrated different weapon systems (pistol, rifle, and GPMG) while giving the cadets the opportunity to participate. - Engineering Challenge
The challenge had an Officer in Charge (OIC) and 2 supporting Service Personnel (SP) from 71 Coy and involved setting up and judging a basic engineering/STEM-based activity for the cadets. - Military Equipment Stand
The stand had an Officer in Charge (OIC) and 2 supporting Service Personnel (SP) from 72 Coy and showcased basic military equipment (FFR Land Rover, ORP, NLAW, and VIRTUS system) with demonstrations for the cadets. - Command Tasks
The task had an Officer in Charge (OIC, minimum rank: Lance Corporal) and 2 supporting Service Personnel (SP) from 132 Sqn and involved setting up and running an indoor activity focused on teamwork and communication for the cadets.
The highlight of the day for many cadets was an up-close view of the six Apache helicopters in the workshop at RAF Wattisham, their operational home.
Conclusion
It was an incredible day enjoyed by all, with an invitation extended to return in 2026.
خصوصی شکریہ
- SSgt Daniel Hannabuss, 70 Fd Coy, 7 Aviation Support Battalion REME
- Lt Col Anna Swales MBE, Officer Commanding, 158 Regiment RLC
Supporting Contributions
This event was made possible with support from individuals and organisations committed to community engagement:
- SI Rachel Green, an Adult Instructor in the Army Cadet Force and Operations Manager at GXO Logistics.
- Lt Col Anna Swales MBE, Officer Commanding of 158 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps (RLC).
- GXO Logistics, a Gold Member of the Armed Forces Covenant, supports the RLC and broader Armed Forces community. As part of their covenant commitment, they promote engagement with Regular and Reserve Armed Forces and Cadet Forces.