Royal Air Force Air Cadets from 415 (Brecon) Detached Flight travelled to the Black Mountains recently for a day of navigation training, with a walk up the Sugar Loaf.

The aim of the day was to train the cadets to a competent degree of navigation and as well as developing team building skills. The cadets walked 10 kilometers, gaining 800 feet of height.

The walk gave some of the younger air cadets their first taste of the outdoors and what is expected of them on their forthcoming Duke of Edinburgh Bronze expeditions. The route followed a mixture of well-defined paths, tracks, forestry sections as well as moderate climbs.

The cadets encouraged and assisted each other throughout the day, also showing their skills during a practical first aid exercise which they successfully dealt with - improved their confidence and self-reliance if they were to find themselves in a difficult situation.

The pace throughout the day remained brisk helped with good weather, great teamwork and wonderful views of the area to enjoy and appreciate.

Cadet Grace Walby said: “It was really cool and the views from the top of Sugar Loaf were amazing. I enjoyed the challenge of the walk and I learnt so much which will help me prepare with my Duke of Edinburgh expedition.”

Adventurous training forms a very important part of the air cadets training syllabus. Rigorous training on a parade night covers team building, leadership, mountain craft, camp craft, safety training and navigation before safely going on the hills.

Cadets Harri Latewood, Gethin Phillips, Dylan Price, Jacob Smith, Holly Thomas, Daniella Vaughan, Grace Walby and Wallace Archibald benefited from this taste of the great outdoors.

If you have a spirit for adventure, 415 (Brecon) Detached Flight have vacancies for boys and girls aged 12+ years old (from school year 8) as well as any adults; interested in volunteering with an exciting youth organisation. Adults do not need a military background, just life experience and a passion to give something to the next generation of Royal Air Force Air Cadets.

The Detached Flight parade on Tuesdays 6:45 – 9:00pm at the Drill Hall, Conway Street, Brecon, LD73 7EU

For more information about becoming a Royal Air Force Air Cadet or becoming an Instructor please email Andrew Dudley [email protected]