So, I had the opportunity back in September to watch a bit of military training by the French Air Force. The cadets went up to the mountains as a part of their initial indoctrination. It was quite impressive to be a part of. I appreciated the realistic training. Of course it was grueling for those going through it, but then, all good military training is!
OK, on with the images.
As you can see, the region was quite beautiful. Not too unlike Colorado, but certainly a slightly different feel.
Leah was my fellow observer of the training.
Although the weapons look realistic, they are Air Soft guns and completely harmless.
Take the hill! Get the cows! Moo.
Moving with a purpose.
The contrast of war…
Ready to move out.
Got milk? Moo.
There’s little wonder why French cheese is so good. Look at where the cows live!
Up and over the hill. But watch out… the other side has some cadre who are going to take you into a tough place … and they had to fight their way out.
This was a little like USAFA’s obstacle and assault courses combined. For those of you who’ve been through it, you can image how much fun it is. 🙂 If you haven’t, well, check out the images below.
What are you doing?? Harder! C’mon, hit like you mean it!
Show me your war face! Arrggghhh!
Into the merde.
Intense training … in a beautiful mountain setting.
Rolling down the hill. Almost looks fun, don’t you think?
Nearly full-speed unarmed combat.
Really?? You want me to KEEP going?? C’mon, seriously…
A shoulder to rest for a moment.
You see those guys up there?? Go get ’em!!!
And she did!
Oh, it’s SOO cold! Do I really have to get in here??
Ok, that sums up the training. Although my comments are light hearted, the cadets really did a great job. It was fun to watch and be a part of it.
So, until the next time!
–Jim