THE HAMPSHIRE and Isle of Wight Army Cadet Force have been training in the USA.

Nineteen cadets and four adult volunteers were selected to represent the county and took part in a variety of physically demanding challenges in Kentucky, including climbing in the Blue Licks National Park.

Cdt Cpl Shona Saunders, 1 Andover Flight Detachment, said: “This has been an opportunity of a lifetime. I never thought I would be able to come out to the USA with the cadets and take part in these activities. I’ve made some fantastic new friends and learnt some great new skills.”

The volunteers took part in a graduation parade after 10 days of training, attended by Congressman Andy Barr and Col J Land, Commander of US Army Cadet Corps.

Col J Land said: “We are honoured to have had the opportunity to host the British Cadets. They have had the opportunity to get stuck in and work alongside us. It’s been a pleasure and we hope to build on this relationship for the future.”

Their annual camp marked a good year for Hampshire’s cadets too with Commandant of Hampshire and Isle of Wight ACF, Col R Lambert, presenting Officer Lieutenant Mark Yates with the Cadet Force Medal to recognise long and efficient service.

Lt Yates, of Chandlers Ford, said: “I am very pleased to have been awarded this medal. I have had the opportunity to work with some fantastic cadets and volunteers over the last 12 years.”

Over 85 cadets and adult volunteers, aged between 13-18 years, from across North West Hampshire attended the Annual Camp in Okehampton, Dartmoor at the end of July.

The Zulu Company cadets, which have detachments located in Winchester, Romsey, Basingstoke, Eastleigh, Overton, Andover and Middle Wallop, were awarded the County Duke of Edinburgh trophy for the most cadets who achieved their Duke of Edinburgh’s award.

The cadets enjoyed varied activities including drill training, field training, rock climbing, raft building and expedition training over a 15 mile expedition over the Dartmoor training area.

Maj Conrad Wilson, OC Zulu Company, said: “I am extremely proud to see all the awards and the promotions at the end of camp. Not to mention the sheer determination and drive that was demonstrated not just by the cadets, but by the adult volunteers during their expedition.

“They are all a credit to the army cadet force.”