Coastal Bend Cadets practice Woodsmanship

Kingsville, Texas- As part of continued ES FIELD ACTIVITY DEPLOYMENT (FAD)  training, cadets from the Coastal Bend Cadet Squadron ventured into the woods to scout for suitable wood poles to use as future TARP and TENT poles or for other general use.

Using a "Sierra Saw" available from a certain discount store familiar to most South Texans, as well as most all AMERICANS, the units two flight were able to find some useable poles.

"We were able," said Major Carrales, "to acquire three.  Next week a small detail of cadets will find the fourth and we will try to set up a tarp...a small one for practice."

The unit will be using the normal plastic tarps, usually blue, for training and acquire some canvas ones for use on FAD assignments.

"The lack of shade is an issue in many places," continued Major Carrales, "having the ability to generate 'shade' anywhere at any time is a major plus for safety against the sun's rays and subsequent heat."

The three "poles" are of mesquite, slighty bowing...but usable, and are about 6 feet tall. 

Some cadets grew fond of the "tree line pickings."

"I want this one!" exclaimed C/Amn A.R. Delapaz while holding one like an over grown shilleagh.

The poles will be allowed to dry, sanded and protected with shellac or some other sealer.

Cadets give setting up a "pole" a try