An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 23 PTE PARAIC Ó FÁTHARTA, 1 CN COIS "Bhain mé an-taitneamh as an gcúrsa. Bhí na ceannairí go maith ag teagasc, agus bhí siad foigh- neach leis na daltaí a raibh siad ag tabhairt aire dóibh ar an gcúrsa. Thaitin an léamh mapaí agus treodóireacht go mór liom, agus bhí an-am againn ag siúl thar an bealach a phleanáil muid i nGaillimh Theas. Don dara seachtain bhí muid ag cleachtadh ionsaí buíne agus teaicticí agus chríochnaigh muid le luíochán san oíche ar phatról mar bhuíon, inar scaoileamar cúpla ceád urchar, le cúnamh ónár GPMG, an t-arm nua ar bhain muid amach ár gcáilíocht ann i rith na coicíse." PTE STEPHEN RIORDAN, 3 INF BN "I really enjoyed taking part in the course as part of my progres- sion through the Army Reserve. A supportive and challenging pro- gramme was carried out by com- petent and professionally trained staff. The camp was well organised and diverse, covering a range of subjects; from lectures regarding fundamen- tals of defence, to navigation, to overnight tactical exercises. All aspects of the course were well run and highly relevant. Person- ally, I thought the ambush conducted on our overnight exercise was extremely interesting and well executed. I felt that this was a great experience and I would recommend it to any prospective applicant." PTE GORDON DICKS, 12 INF BN "The course provided a comprehen- sive introduction to various mili- tary skills not covered throughout recruit training. This included train- ing on the GPMG, navigation skills and platoon level tactics. There was a good ratio of instructors to students, enabling a high-quality learning atmosphere. I personally found that the navigation component of the course was the highlight, as it expanded upon and refreshed previous knowledge. I am looking forward to more opportunities to challenge the theory of what I have learned so far and to take part in more in-depth training." one of the tower buildings in the barracks. This was a very enjoyable confidence-building experience that was thorough- ly appreciated by all. The tactical training on the course primarily revolved around section attacks, start- ing with a walk through of the process, dry drills, and progressing to carrying out full section attacks using blank ammunition as we grew in competence and confidence. The tactical phase culmi- nated in a 24-hour exercise consisting of platoon attacks as well as setting up and conducting operations from a patrol harbour. This thoroughly tested the knowledge and skills of the students and many of us agreed that the highlight of the course was the execu- tion of a platoon ambush. We concluded a challeng- ing and enjoyable course with our passing out parade, during which we were all congratulated for passing our star tests. The NCO and officer instructors presented awards for achievement to a number of students, with Pte Colm Garvey receiving the award for best student. For myself, I was delighted to be awarded best shot on the GPMG. See right for some feedback from other students on the course. Pte Finn McHale and Pte Colm Garvey with Lt Michael Black (Pl Comd) after receiving their awards.

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