A Sqn Ex STEELE CARBINE

Cpl Joshua McLeod

 

17 – 25 Aug 23 for A Squadron were busy! The Squadron was responsible for running the Combat Force Test, Personal Weapon Tests 1-2 on the SAT, and live ranges to conduct C7/C8 Personal Weapons Tests 1-3 to achieve Regimental Individual Battle Task Standards.

A Squadron completed these tasks and had fun doing so. There were challenges, but with a little perseverance, we were able to overcome these curveballs ensuring training was completed to the highest standard.

The Combat Force Test supervised by Cpl Fitzpatrick ensured a smooth and efficient conduct; with all participants making their timings, most of them with a smile on their face. Some of us, myself included, were grateful for the breezy, cloudy weather instead of the summer heat.

SAT ranges were overseen by Cpl Nobes and Cpl Beck who ran everything like a well-oiled machine. There were some days where technology and operator were not friends, however, Cpl Nobes and Cpl Beck were able to use their training to resolve these issues and carry on with the training plan, ensuring members were confident in their skills prior to deploying to the live ranges.  

The live ranges this year went exceptionally well, with the weather being interesting to say the least. We experienced regular rainfall, hungry mosquitos, 35-degree heat, and fog so bad you couldn’t see 25m in front of you. Unfortunately, the rain was unpredictable, just when our RSO, Lt Snetzko, trusted the weather enough to take off his rain jacket, the sky opened up and started a downpour, soaking everyone on the range, especially Lt Snetzko. As expected, A Squadron’s range staff overcame these hurdles and conducted the ranges safely and effectively.

Personal flexibility was on full display throughout the Squadron, with almost every person being tasked out to help with whatever popped up. As with any task the Squadron is given, we were able to complete everything assigned while having some fun and laughs along the way.

Morale stayed high regardless of tasks faced, uncooperative weather, and long hours required to complete training for the Regiment, demonstrating that even when A Squadron is not on high readiness, it is a key enabler to Regimental effectiveness.