Diving, 'Operation Felix', Gibraltar, Aug 2011, ID 1170

2227 (mid Gwendraeth) Sqn, ATC

After months of planning a group of twenty two Air Cadets from the Gwendraeth Valley in South Wales have recently returned from an extremely successful two week overseas adventurous training camp in the British colony of Gibraltar.

The key activity during the camp was the open water Professional Association of Diving Instructors Course (PADI). The course, which is split into three areas of theory, confined water and open water diving, allowed the cadets the opportunity to learn about various pieces of equipment as well as develop a variety of skills which then helped them enjoy the scuba diving experience. Having built up their skills and confidence in Rosia bay the cadets progressed to dive in and around a set of 4 barges, that were sank to create an artificial reef off the coast of Gibraltar. The cadets, many of whom were using this opportunity to complete various levels of the Duke of Edinburgh’s award scheme were certified, on completion of the course, to dive with a qualification that is globally recognised.

The remainder of the two week camp, code named Operation Felix, was designed to allow the cadets of 2227 (Mid Gwendraeth) Squadron the opportunity to participate in other equally exciting activities including a walking tour of the famous Gibraltar rock, a dolphin safari as well as meeting Gibraltar’s iconic Barbary apes. One of the most memorable activities that was organised for the cadets was a trip to the Naval contingent based in Gibraltar, who had arranged to take the cadets out into the harbor on rib boats. Each group, consisting of cadets, would head out into the harbor area where the cadets would get the opportunity to drive the boat at speed while other members of the group would be dragged along the water while holding on to an inflatable ring.

“Operation Felix was just waw!!! One of the best experiences of my life! We had the chance to take part in many activities that were truly awesome. I really enjoyed the scuba diving course we did and it's an experience I will never forget. I hope we get the opportunity to try something like this again, and would like to thank everyone involved for making it such a great camp.” said Cadet Corporal Elin Thomas from Cefneithin.

It wasn’t all hard work for the cadets: after an exceptionally busy nine days, day ten had been designed to allow the cadets to relax. Heading across the border into Spain the cadets spent the day at the Aqua Mijas water park. Here they enjoyed the various water slides, wave pools, jacuzzis or for some simply relaxing pool side.

Said Flight Lieutenant Liam Brace, the Camp’s Commanding Officer “This expedition has been an experience for all concerned and has shown how much can be achieved when the entire Squadron combine their efforts and work towards a single goal. I am truly appreciative to all those people, both inside and outside of the Squadron, who have supported us in our endeavors.”

The cadets arrived back in the United Kingdom sporting a newly found sun tan, a nationally recognised qualification and having enjoyed an adventure of a life-time in Gibraltar.

The staff and cadets from 2227 (Mid Gwendraeth) Squadron would like to thank the Ulysses Trust and the RAF Charitable Trust who’s kind donation of funding helped all of the cadets, many of whom, would simply not have been able to attend without their support.

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