Last Friday, a select group of (elite) CCF cadets embarked on a ten-mile march in the far reaches of the Chilterns. Their motive for this horrible exercise is to aid the Combat Stress charity, which supports veterans with combat stress.
Straight after an already intensive CCF drill session, the meagre crowd was herded into the LUN for a feast of hot dogs and a drink and were fed safety information. The event was due to begin at 18.30.
At the agreed hour and destined to meet again, the Royal Navy/RAF and the Army cohorts went their separate ways, each wearing their new beanie hats for the event. Despite the phrase “This is not a race” being drilled repeatedly into us, but the abundant sugar was going to our heads and morale was high. The CCF group started strong, confident, and fast. Masterful singing from the back was paired with excited nagging from the front – the noise was intense.
Navigation was essential. Daniel Z., Albert V. and Christoph Z. led the Army pack with pride, whilst Adam T. herded those at the back. The normally silent forest was lit up with the sound of chattering.
However, after an unknown number of miles in (and a grand total of zero breaks), word from the front was to go back. We’d gone the wrong way…
This was to be the first of many errors…
A few sarcastic comments later and we were back on track, still making better headway than the other group and going strong. Sweets were passed around at a pit stop and maps were inspected, although most didn’t understand how far we’d gone. Leaving long uphills, clear skies, and narrow tracks behind them, the energy persisted.
Supportive teamwork was required by everyone to maintain the quick pace. The close-knit marching group were all distracted by their conversations that they forgot about their aching legs and feet. Somewhere far along the route the opposite group appeared, everyone glad to see their friends.
Roughly 8 miles into the expedition, we met roads, which was the first sign we were close to our destination. After a small error and the retracing of some steps, Tring Station came into view across a large open field. Finally!
Waiting for us with a smug smile was the SSI, and Lt Cdr Firestone, who (impressed with our times), reminded us that ” we told you this wasn’t a race”.
The night ended at 23:30, by which point everyone was glad to sit down and sleep. Overall, it was an entirely successful march where we only managed to get lost three times – two less than last year!
Ultimately, as fun as it was, the event was held for charity. To help us fundraise, simply scan the QR code or click on the link below to donate through our Taylors’ CCF Fundraising page. Any donation is greatly appreciated. You can also raise awareness by forwarding on the link to your friends and family.
https://events.combatstress.org.uk/fundraisers/merchant-taylors-2025
