The Royal Marines CCF Summer Camp is recognised throughout the CCF as being one of the most physically challenging and rewarding that cadets can attend. The Royal Marines Youth Team design the course to improve the overall skills of the RM Cadets, to such an extent that they can fulfil NCO and instructor duties upon returning to their schools. The level of physical and mental challenge is designed to increase the self-confidence of the cadets and give them a real insight into working with the regular Royal Marines.
Attending the two week camp were 40 cadets from CCF contingents around the country who all engaged in a range of activities including military skills, survival techniques, adventure training (mountain biking and hill walking), plus presentations at 43 Commando from operational Royal Marines about their fleet/nuclear submarine protection role.
During week one the cadets were taught (and practiced) in basic and advanced military skills including troop manoeuvres, survival, which saw them living in brushwood shelters and skinning rabbits, and finally conducting maritime operations on Loch Gare. At the start of week two the cadets ran the Glen Nevis Race in memory of Capt. Phil Guy who was tragically killed at the beginning of the Iraq War in 2003. After this they spent two days mountain biking and hill walking on classic routes in Glen Coe.
Following in the footsteps of King’s student Henry Dufosee in 2014, Sebastian Manger was given the award for Top Cadet, with Benedict Wagstaff coming in as runner up. These prizes were presented by the RSM of 43 Commando, WO1 (RSM) Buck Ryan RM.
Amongst other aspects, the cadets were assessed on their understanding and execution of the Royal Marines Ethos: Courage, Unity, Determination, Adaptability, Unselfishness, Humility, Cheerfulness, Professional Standards, Fortitude, Commando Humour, Values and Unity.
Commenting on the performance of King’s pupils during the camp, Capt. Steve King RMR said: “The Royal Marines Summer Camp is an extremely arduous two weeks that tests the cadets in most aspects of the current syllabus and overall it was a resounding success. For one of our cadets to claim the Top Cadet award for the second year running was a great achievement; however I am proud of all our boys as once again they performed outstandingly and ultimately were great ambassadors for King’s College.”