Cadets from all over the Hampshire & IOW Wing came together on a cold november weekend to take part in the annual Browndown Training Camp Weekend near Fort Blockhouse (home to 1098 Gosport Squadron).

Friday: We all began by arriving at Fort Blockhouse to pay our money, consent forms and to grab our keys for our rooms. once our rooms was sorted, we were split up into our Project groups (This year included: 1st Class Training, General class, Shooting and Comms). Once we were in our groups, the Camp Commandant (OC 1098) gave us our briefing on what to expect at the camp. Afterwards, we stocked up the Mini-buses and headed back to our rooms ready for an early morning wakeup.

Saturday: Everyone was up and ready by 0700 with their kit and went down to breakfast. Blockhouse has a knack of serving good food and this weekend was no exception. Afterwards, we got on the mini-buses and headed to Browndown hanger. Once there, we got into our Projects and started having fun. Lunch came up and were were served Hot Chilli to keep us warm (no cold death bags for us this time). Every cadet also got the privilege of Clay Pidgeon shooting this year and there was much joy in that. In the evening, after Dinner, Fort Blockhouse hosted the Annual Browndown Disco led by our very own Impressive DJ, Sgt James 'DJ' Rooney. needless to say, everyone had a smile on their face by the end and went to bed happy.

Sunday: The Final Day, Everyone got up, got their kit sorted and out of their rooms, had their Breakfast, got in the buses and left for Browndown. The first class training had their exams, the General group had their last fun things to do, Shooting had its Marksman competition (which resulted in Sgt Tompkins getting Region and Cpl Tompkins getting Wing Marksman badges), Comms had their outdoor comms activity to do. Rain did pour down on us, but a huge hanger showed its advantages. we even had hot lunches again, which cheered everyone up. Everyone seemed to have a good time, despite the rain and coldness.

In the End we all arrived back at Blockhouse for the debriefing and final parade. the Camp Commandant thanked all the staff and the Sqns for taking part and had hoped to see them next year or at future camps at Blockhouse.

In short, Blockhouse Training Weekend was a huge success and will hopefully be joined by the same Sqns next Year

I/c Cpl James Carlin (1098 Gosport Squadron)