Today marked the start of our CRBN training so we had a lot of kit to prep for the day ahead. Hopefully we had all remembered to bring everything as last Monday we received a bit of a dressing down.
The day started with the first aid test to see if we could recall the weekends training. All but 1 passed so not a bad result and hopefully another re-sit tomorrow will ensure we have all passed.
So onto CBRN and using the new respirator which is a fantastic piece of kit. We had lessons on how to fit it, use it and clean it which we will be doing for the next 3 nights. We also started to learn about the different types of agents which could be deployed and how to counter them.
After lunch we got what we had been waiting for, another dressing down. Again it was deserved for a couple of transgressions and we all know why we need to sharpen up our training if we are to complete this course and become an effective member of the RAF. So several kit inspections and repacking drills later it had been firmly hammered home. Hopefully no more slip ups. The old adage firm but fair could easily be applied to the corporals here.
So onto the CBRN suit and wow it's hot. Even in a coolish climate like Wendover it got absolutely redders in the suit within a minute or so. Trousers, coat, rubber boots, hood up, cotton gloves, rubber gloves and respirator complete the kit. In the desert this must be unbearable. I had developed a good sweat just dressing and undressing. The chamber awaits tomorrow when we will rest with CS gas.
Tonight however has been all about the block and tomorrows inspection by the Warrant Officer. As usual the teamwork was great and the place is gleaming with uniform pressed, respirators cleaned and kit ready for tomorrow. An early start awaits as we have to have breakfast before the inspection before moving down to the hanger for the days training.
Nervous anticipation for tomorrow then to have a faultless inspection and also to ensure we don't let our Corporals down again. They work hard for our benefit and they just ask that we do the same.
Dave (AC Beatley)
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