RAF
RAF Reservists in Extreme Cold Weather Training in Norway
RAF Reservists from across the UK have been participating in arduous training to develop their skills in being able to operate in adverse conditions and climates.
Winter March 15 (WM15), a joint exercise with the Norwegian Reserve Officers Federation, is taking place in the region of Hardangervidda, a remote location in the foothills of the Rjukan valleys, overlooked by snow capped mountains and sheer ice walls.
15 Squadrons came together in the exercise, in which they received lessons in mountain and avalanche awareness, got training in rescue, first aid and personal care under extreme cold weather conditions, and learned to cross-country ski whilst carrying out their normal duties.
Squadron Leader Paul Chegwidden, Project Officer for WM15, said:
“Exercise Winter March provides the chance for more arduous conditions for our personnel, who are encouraged to challenge themselves beyond their normal capabilities. It also contributes to the RAF’s aims to engage with reservists, offering the best training possible.”
“From the individuals point of view, it gives them the opportunity to do things that they wouldn’t do in their civilian life. Here they can acquire new skills, make new friends, and it provides an idea of the bigger picture of what the RAF Reserves are all about.”
The exercise also provides an opportunity to foster cultural relations with the RAF's Norwegian counterparts (such as the Norwegian Mountain Rescue team search dog seen above during a recovery demonstration, as well as some of its younger counterparts), in a partnership that has been ongoing for the last 20 years.
Photographs Crown Copyright/ Ben Hannah/ 2015
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