News |

Exercise ‘Battle of Barney’ – 2025

As the term reached its midpoint, 34 determined cadets deployed to Catterick Training Area for Exercise ‘Battle of Barney’ – a high-tempo fieldcraft operation designed to push their leadership, tactics and soldiering skills to the limit. This wasn’t just training; it was a full-blown preparation for Summer Camp and a chance to put everything they’ve learned into action under pressure.

On arrival, cadets moved swiftly to establish their harbour areas, putting up bashas with military efficiency and preparing rations despite testing weather conditions. After an early start the next day, the sections initiated patrols and gathered intelligence. Sections carried out standing patrols, close target reconnaissance and established observation posts supported by a Quick Reaction Force (QRF). Using sharp map-reading skills, cadets identified enemy positions, terrain features and potential strongpoints for all-round defence.

By Saturday afternoon, intelligence was flowing. Each section gathered information and pooled their findings in harbour, enabling detailed orders to be drawn up. Intel pointed to enemy movement near a wooded area – a textbook opportunity for an ambush. Sections moved tactically, set the ambush and waited. Twenty minutes later, contact was made and the ambush was executed with precision – a decisive victory for the cadets.

Adding depth to the weekend, cadets were honoured to be joined by Lt Brown, Troop Commander in the Corps of Royal Signals, who shared insights from his military career and reflected on his own time in the CCF. He was accompanied by our very own Captain Briscoe-Smith, whom he went to school with, providing cadets with inspiring stories and valuable advice.

The final day saw the culmination of the weekend: a platoon-level deliberate attack on the enemy-held Shaiba FOB. With detailed rehearsals complete, sections advanced tactically. Enemy forces were engaged and suppressed, while fire teams manoeuvred under covering fire. Working as a cohesive unit, cadets breached the perimeter using bolt cutters passed through the line with military urgency. Once inside, they cleared each building with speed and precision, dominating the battlespace and securing the FOB.

Throughout the operation, section commanders demonstrated exceptional leadership. Lance Corporals Rasmus E, William T, and Callum S led from the front, delegating effectively to their 2i/cs, Lance Corporals Charlie J, Charlie C and Daniel B. Communication and cohesion were outstanding, forging a platoon that operated like a well-oiled machine.

Special recognition goes to our senior cadets – Cadet RSM Sylvan T, CSM Archie P, and Colour Sergeant Joe G – who, on their final exercise, played the role of enemy with energy and enthusiasm, giving the junior cadets a truly authentic challenge.

This was more than just a weekend in the field – it was a test of grit, teamwork, and tactical thinking. The cadets of Exercise ‘Battle of Barney’ rose to the challenge and proved themselves ready for whatever comes next.

Lt Col C E Connor