Soldier swaps barracks for slopes in training exercise (From News Shopper)

Gravesend soldier Craig Graves trades barracks for slopes in training exercise

10:48am Thursday 16th February 2012 in News By Jim Palmer

A SOLDIER from Gravesend swapped Afghanistan for the Alps to take part in an Army skiing contest.

Former Gravesend Grammar School pupil Captain Craig Graves competed in Exercise Pipedown in the French Alpine town Les Contamines de Montjoie, near Mont Blanc.

The 27-year-old took on the physically-demanding Nordic, or cross country, discipline in the competition organised by 1 Armoured Division.

Cpt Graves, who joined the army in 2008 and served in Afghanistan in 2009, said: “I like the physical challenge and the camaraderie of coming away with a small team.

“You need an aptitude for learning and good fitness to be able to do this. It is a fantastic and hugely valuable experience for everyone taking part.”

Commanding officer, Major General James Bashall said the operation developed traits expected in soldiers such as marksmanship, fitness, leadership, teamwork, courage and co-ordination.

He added: “It is incredibly valuable and important - a chance for our people to put their hearts and souls into a different activity – a world away from Afghanistan, maintaining their health and well-being.”