The Commandant of the Soldier Academy, the Command Sergeant Major of the Soldier Academy, the Commanding Officer and Regimental Sergeant Major of the Second Infantry Training Battalion, along with the Second-in-Command and Company Sergeant Major of Gurkha Training Company (GTC), recently completed a Duty Trek (RDT) to Nepal.
The purpose of the RDT was to observe the Gurkha recruit selection process firsthand. This was particularly significant as the newly selected trainees will eventually train under their command. The visit also provided valuable insights into the calibre, ethos, and backgrounds of the Gurkha recruits, enabling commanders to better understand their integration and welfare needs during training. Additionally, the visit offered assurance regarding the induction training delivered by the permanent staff of GTC in Pokhara, prior to the newly selected Gurkhas moving to the UK to start their training.
During the RDT, the delegation had the opportunity to witness the outstanding work of The Gurkha Welfare Trust through visits to the Area Welfare Centres in Kaski and Baglung. They were warmly welcomed by a Welfare Pensioner in Sikha, which added a personal and meaningful touch to the experience. A notable highlight of the trek was being hosted by Lieutenant Colonel (Retd) J P Cross OBE, who captivated the visitors with remarkable stories from his extraordinary life.
