NCC International Cadets Exchange Programme 2019

This trip has truly been
a very memorable experience for me. During this journey, I was able to
participate in many unique activities that I would not be able to experience
back in Singapore. For example, the training in built-up areas was actually
conducted in an army-made village so that soldiers could conduct urban
operations there.
Although many
activities, like water activities and live range, were exhilarating and
memorable, the field craft training exercise (FTX) was definitely the highlight
of this trip. During the FTX, we stayed in a forested area for 2 nights, eating
rations out of mess tins. We carried a general purpose rifle loaded with blank
rounds to shoot at the enemy (army regulars) whenever they were spotted. I had
the privilege to learn the basics of defending a harbour area and go on sentry
duty for hours.
However, the activity
was not just a smooth ride. There were many moments when I felt like throwing
in the towel. When it rained and I realised my basha was incorrectly set up,
regret filled my mind as I became soaked from head to toe. But after seeing how
other cadets managed to weather the storm, I picked myself up and persevered.
By overcoming such adversity together with my buddies, I have come to
appreciate the values of teamwork and determination even more. Nothing can be
taken for granted and no one owes us a living. Even simple daily chores, such
as laundry, had to be done from scratch. These are things that I would have
taken for granted if not for this trip.
Overall, for me, this
trip developed my time management skills, discipline and independence, which I
am grateful for. I will never forget the picturesque sights of Sussex and the
verdant green plains where animals roamed free.
I thank Mr Loh, my
Principal, and Mr Terence Tan, my CCA teacher-in-charge, for their full support
and granting me the opportunity to represent Zhonghua NCC on this prestigious
trip.
SSG Keegan Gan 3E3