Summerhill College

C.S.P.E ACTION PROJECT – CLASS 3L1 – FINNER CAMP 27/10/11

Our C.S.P.E Action Project commenced as the class of 3L1 gathered in Mr. Tivnan’s room on Thursday 27th October 2011 for the much anticipated trip to Finner Camp.

The atmosphere on the bus journey was set by Mr. O`Hara with his football quiz questions, along with the jokes and banter from Brian McGowan at the back of the bus made for a very enjoyable trip.

After the short journey to Finner Camp we got off the bus to be welcomed by Corporal Downey who gave us our timetable for the day. As we stood awaiting our tour amazed by the variety of guns on display across the yard, our class ``call of duty`` expert Liam Ryan informed us on the various types of guns . Captain Quigley commenced operations by leading us to a display of guns which we were all eagerly awaiting.

He proceeded to give us a detailed analysis of the guns on display which included Mortar, AUG, 50 Calibre Sniper and HMG (heavy machine gun) just to name a few.

Captain Quigley allowed us to check out the above guns with the aid of the Finner Camp soldiers and with no hesitation the boys got straight into action with the amusing Stephen Quigley running down the yard with the combat gear that weighed a surprisingly heavy 10 kilos, little wonder he looked tired on his return.

Meanwhile the daring pair Ross Monaghan and Dylan Kilgallon threw the heavy machine gun on their shoulders weighing 30 kilos. Then Mr. O`Hara decided to join in the fun by putting the combat camouflage paint on his face, he discovered later that day how hard it was to get it off !

Next we went to the Auditorium for a talk with Captain Quigley where he explained about the procedures of joining the army. He also talked about the rugged training they have to endure before they go on peace keeping in Chad. He explained about the struggles in Chad between the rebels and the Government and their objective to keep civilians safe. He emphasised the climate difference between Ireland and that of the “dead heart of Africa” for example it is essential to intake enough water to avoid dehydration as temperature rise to plus 45 degrees Celsius.

He ended his talk with advice to people considering an army career and how rewarding he has found his career in the army. As the day in Finner Camp was drawing to an end we made our way to the canteen to the delight of the class the delicious meal was a fitting way to end a brilliant day.

Our sincere thanks to all at Finner Camp who made this trip a day to remember. Also our thanks to Mr. Brian Tivnan and Mr Stephen O’Hara who made this happen for us.

Written by Luke Nicholson - 3L1