The course required a lot of lectures on the components of the vehicle, its systems and parts. All of which we had to sit through in a cold air conditioned room. Honestly, it felt like I was in school again. Thick manuals, long lectures and food coma all brought back memories of student life. We had theoretical tests, driving tests as well as vehicle maintenance tests throughout the training phase to qualify us for the vocation of an AFV Operator. Driving an AFV was an interesting experience. It felt like driving a go-kart. Despite the vehicle being allowed to travel at only a maximum of 20km/h in training areas, it felt a lot faster when I was in the vehicle. We were tasked to navigate obstacles both in the night and in the day which really tested our confidence and capacity to perform as drivers.
Maintaining an AFV was another eye opening experience. Seeing what gives this massive vehicle the muscle to move, and how keep it healthy was something that few of us would imagine doing. Spending hours in the workshops, sweating and contorting into awkward positions to replace engine parts is something I will always remember. Also, getting our hands covered in grease and our pants wet with mud. It was a tiring experience. Yet it was fun at the same time.
Working with the armored vehicles gave me a sense of belonging in the Armour vocation. If I were in any other role in my unit, I'd doubt that I would feel the same about my appointment.
After 2 months of training, we passed out of our trades course as Operators. Being awarded our Black Beret, a universal sign of the Armour vocation, we were now officially ready for our operational training. Our first test however, was not of military nature. Instead, our first task after our trades course PoP was helping out in SG50, NDP 2015.
Next time: Mobile Column! NDP 2015
