On 5th July twenty two cadets, three school staff and two regular soldiers from 29 Cdo Regt RA left Heathrow for Brunei. The main purpose of the trip was to experience jungle training, but we had other objectives as well – to assist with a local charity, and to understand and experience the historical and social contact of Brunei.
The first week involved community service with Pusat Eshan – a charity set up for disabled children. We cleared ditches, painted rooms, entertained the children with drill, cooking, storytelling and dancing and did some gardening.
During the week we also took part in a river run, organised by the boat section at TTB (Training Team Brunei) and had introductions to platoon weapons, equipment needed for the jungle, military swim test, Special Forces brief and a lecture on health and hygiene in the jungle.
At the weekend we made our way into the capital for a tour around Kampon Ayer, the water village and a trip up the river to see the Sultan’s Palace and go hunting for Monkeys.
We started the second week with a jungle range, fireing a number of different weapons including SA80, AR 15, SLR and GPMG. We also had a go at abseiling from the 60ft “helicopter” abseiling tower – a unique experience for all of us testing our head for heights with many overcoming personal fears.
The rest of the second week was in the trees starting with stands on survival, food, traps, medicine, shelter and water. The nights in the jungle were filled with strange noises and the reflection of animals eyes. The light faded at 1830 and no one was brave enough to leave their hammocks as they could not see where they were going! The jungle experience also included navigation, hacking through jungle and some military elements – CTR and contact drills. The jungle phase ended with a camp attack. The support we received from the instructors at TTB as well as our own JWI’s, Jim and Ray that came with us from the UK was extremely appreciated.
The final week was spent in Malaysia – swimming, boat journeys and relaxation – recovering from the bites from the jungle.
21 days later, we returned to the UK, exhausted but having had the experience of a lifetime having gained confidence, leadership and knowing that we made a difference.
Without the support of the Ulysses Trust and 29 Cdo Rgt RA these activities could not have taken place for which Sutton valence School CCF are extremely thankful.
