Cadets in the snow

On Monday 10 February, 3rd-year cadets of the M. R. Štefánik Armed Forces Academy (AOS) Liptovský Mikuláš began their week-long winter training by a snowshoe march across snowy mountainous terrain. This week all the 64 3rd-year cadets are being trained in the use of downhill, alpine and cross-country skis.

Dušan Litva, Head of the Physical Training and Sports Department, Armed Forces Academy, said: “The aim of this tasking is to develop the cadets’ basic military movement skills in snow conditions. There will be a follow-up to this activity under the comprehensive military training programme.” 

Cpt Ján Jurčák, officer in charge of the 3rd-year cadets, said: “Some soldiers have never been on downhill skis, others have never moved around on cross-country skis, and almost no one has walked on snowshoes. Yet, because all of our cadets are physically talented and fit young people with the will to learn, this winter week will certainly get them going and even the beginners will soon feel quite at home on slopes.” 

Pte Filip Pavlík said: “We could do with a bit more snow, there is just enough for learning the basics of snowshoe walking. I have no previous skiing experience, so I’m glad this week I am going to pick up some other winter skills too.”

According to Lt Col Václav Želonka, Commander of the AOS Training Units, this year the 3rd-year cadets will undergo concentrated summer training, which will incorporate rock climbing, white water rafting, and a mountain march.