Royal Navy Cadets Test Their Skills at HMS Excellent

Earlier this term, Royal Navy Cadets travelled to Portsmouth and HMS Excellent to take part in a challenging and rewarding programme of fire-fighting training and practical exercises on the DRIU (Damage Repair Instructional Unit). Prior to the training, Cadets were accommodated at Fort Purbrook, which, although very cold, is a historic Royal Navy fort with gun emplacements and tunnels still intact from the age of Nelson.

Breakfast on Tuesday was kindly provided by S/Lt Morris in the form of porridge cartons, fruit juice and croissants. During the coach journey, Cdr Shorrocks briefed Cadets on the protocols for entering a Royal Naval Base and what would be expected of them throughout the visit.

During the morning session, Cadets were kitted out in overalls and fire-fighting jackets, escorted to the demonstration area and given the opportunity to use an AFFF fire extinguisher. This was followed by a visit to the impressive training facilities, where Cadets witnessed several exciting and hazardous demonstrations, including the consequences of leaving a fully charged hose unattended. Cadets also had the opportunity to use hand-held thermal heat-imaging cameras and radio helmets.

After a welcome lunch, the group visited the DRIU and received a thorough briefing on how to prevent water from entering a compartment under pressure using only wooden wedges. After donning coveralls, thermal layers and large dry suits with boots and helmets, Cadets entered the unit. On the command, “FLOOD, FLOOD, FLOOD – flood in Deck 2 Lima Mess,” Cadets collected their wedge sacks and made their way to the mess deck, which was already waist-deep in water, before working together to plug the simulated missile holes before the water level rose further.

Although initially extremely nervous, all Cadets reported that they would love to repeat the exercise. This is exactly what the Royal Navy CCF Section aims to achieve: taking Cadets beyond their comfort zones and pushing them to their limits, all within Royal Navy safety parameters. The experience closely mirrored the Gun Run exercises undertaken at BRNC Dartmouth in October.

All Cadets contributed enormously to the success of the visit and were a credit to the School and the Royal Navy Section. Many thanks must go to S/Lt Morris for organising the visit and to S/Lt Griffin for his support. We are already looking forward to a return visit next year.

Cdr Shorrocks