A team from Devon Partnership NHS Trust (DPT) recently took part in Exercise Military Endeavour (formerly SW NHS Military Challenge), which has returned after a three-year break.
Staged at Okehampton Army Camp on the high moors the challenge consisted of 10 activities developed by the Volunteer Reserve Force including ‘care under fire’, an obstacle course and a final race pushing those involved to their limits and beyond.
The team from DPT consisted of: Joel Cutter, Deputy Director of Nursing and Practice, Mike Long, EPRR Manager, Simon Carpenter, Trainee Registered Nurse apprentice, Jade Sweeting, Sports and Leisure Activity Co-ordinator, Paul Wakely, Physical Health Practitioner, Luke Sweeting, Deputy Team manager and Sal Aziz, Personal Assistant.
Not only did the team come second (an amazing achievement given it is primarily for acute care providers) but they also won a special commendation for outstanding conduct after staying to assist and support other teams who finished after them. The team all reflected on what an amazing experience they all had and how well they (who had never met before the event) worked together and for their selfless commitment for putting others before themselves – a core value of the British Army.
On the Saturday of the event the team were joined by DPT Chair Andy Willis and both he and Joel Cutter reflected on how proud they were to be part of the event and of the achievements of each and every one of the team.
Joel said: “This was truly one of the best weekends I have had in a long time, challenging but so rewarding. Everyone gave 110% and we honestly would not have done what we did without each and every member of the team. We inspired each other to do things we thought we couldn’t and really enjoyed everything the Army threw at us (at times literally!) I hope we have inspired others to take up the gauntlet next year.
“There will be a celebration event and team awards ceremony to acknowledge individual efforts and achievements but also to bring together people interested in developing our links with both the reserves and also our Veterans Service.”
If you would like to find out more about the Reservists email 243HOSP-Recruiting-Mailbox@mod.gov.uk.
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