We had the unique opportunity to attend the Armed Forces Covenant event at Bassingbourn Barracks, and it was an experience unlike any other. From the moment we walked in, we could feel the dedication and focus that The British Army brings to training and operations. It was a day full of surprises, learning, and hands-on experiences that gave us a glimpse into the rigorous training soldiers go through to prepare for some of the most challenging situations.
The day began with a warm welcome in the officers’ mess, where we were treated to teas and coffees. After introductions and a presentation about the soldiers we would be working with during the day, we were briefed on the army’s work, the importance of the Armed Forces Covenant, and how organisations like ours can collaborate with them. It was clear right from the start that the event would be a day of insight and engagement.
Exploring the Army’s Equipment
After the presentation, we were led into a room where we were introduced to some of the guns and rifles used by the army. It was fascinating to see these pieces of equipment up close and learn about their various functions and purposes. From there, we moved to the firing range, where we had the chance to fire some rifles. Much to our surprise, our Marketing Manager Sharon Butler-Felby was pretty good at it and even ended up coming top in our group! This experience gave us a deeper appreciation for the training and skill it takes to handle these weapons.
The army uses laser rifles for training soldiers, which was particularly interesting, instead of using live rounds, which would be far too costly, they use these laser-based systems to ensure soldiers receive the best training while keeping expenses in check. It’s an innovative approach that maximises training efficiency while minimising costs.
Real-Life Training Scenarios
Next, we were taken to a different area where the training scenarios became even more immersive. This space was set up with various mock environments, including a pretend market and fake vehicles to simulate real-world situations. There were simulators, raised platforms filled with sand to show how soldiers locate landmines, and various other set-ups to provide practical, hands-on experience.
One of the most unexpected experiences was when we were placed in a large ‘washing machine’-like simulator designed to replicate the roll of a large vehicle. Wearing heavy combat gear and experiencing the disorientation of being spun around, we were thrown into a scenario where we had to quickly figure out how to escape from the vehicle. The chaos of being spun around and having pillow-like objects thrown at us gave us a sense of just how disorienting these situations can be. When the simulator finally stopped, we found ourselves upside down, needing to help each other out of what was originally the roof hatch! Let’s just say, one of us quickly regretted their choice of smart skirt and tights as she scrambled to get out!
The Reality of Military Medicine and Survival
After that intense moment, we participated in a metal-detecting display set in a desert-like landscape, where we had the opportunity to find a landmine (don’t worry, it was simulated!). This was followed by a medics’ display, where we learned about the crucial role medics play in the field. We watched as soldiers demonstrated how to treat a person who had lost an arm, showcasing the impressive medical kits they carry with them. These kits are incredibly lightweight, which is essential since medics need to carry them alongside their regular soldier gear. The innovation and efficiency of the equipment is remarkable.
A Delicious Ending
After all the hands-on action, we headed back to the officers’ mess to unwind. We were treated to a delicious curry, freshly cooked rice, naan bread, and onion bhajis, which were the perfect end to an intense and physically demanding day. We sat and chatted with the soldiers, sharing our experiences and discussing the day’s events. It was a fantastic way to build connections and understand the importance of the work that these brave individuals do.
The day wrapped up with a lively Q&A session, where we had the chance to ask more questions about the army, their training, and how the Armed Forces Covenant helps build better relationships between the military and civilian sectors.
This event was an incredibly eye-opening experience, and we left with a renewed sense of respect for the army and all those who serve. It was intense, hands-on, and unexpectedly engaging, giving us a taste of the physical and mental challenges soldiers face every day, there’s no better way to understand the dedication and training that go into being a part of our armed forces.
The British Army’s core values are courage, discipline, respect for others, integrity, loyalty and self commitment, these values were displayed throughout the day and as a body of people, they are remarkable individuals that any employer would be lucky to employ. We feel that helping to find individuals that have been trained through these principals are exactly in line with the core values ourselves and most businesses require and admire. We wish to continue to assist ex-forces into new roles and support with advice and practical sessions like cv reviews and interview tips.
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