"Roping in ES Training and Leadership"

Kingsville, Texas- Cadets from the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron are currently learning a few things about ropes and knots. Each cadet is given a small stretch of rope to practice several key knots...1) the square knot, 2) a double half hitch, 3) clove hitch and 4) timber hitch. It is hoped that these, when mastered, can be used to make lashings for "in the field" COMM towers, setting up tarps and making shelters out of shelter halves.

The ideas and skills came, originally, from 2d Lt Terry Bru who served as the Deputy Commander for Cadets last year when the Corpus Christi Comp Squadron charted as a VENTURE CREW. The idea was to incorporate the outdoor activities to facilitate CAP ES functions. Thanks very much to 2d Lt Bru!

In addition, the rope and knot activities tend to demonstrate some of the Charter Development lessons. The ropes, which represent the cadets, can be spliced together with square knots...much like the unit is spliced together through fellowship and camaraderie united in the purpose of a mission.

To demonstrate the nature of said camaraderie, as well as solidify the lessons on knot making, a "tug of war" was held using the knots and ropes tied by the cadets. If each knot (if which there will be more later) is tied confidentially and correctly...it will hold. If not, then the line will lose it cohesion. The integrity (internal strength) of the rope will come from the action of tying the rope properly. Also, each segment of rope must be able to stand "on its own." A faulty rope, which lacks integrity, can cause the line to break. Demonstrating how all cadets in the unit must strive to be persons of integrity.

All in all, it was fun... one knot did loosen (improperly tied...one lesson learned) and one section of rope did snap (another lesson learned).