Tuesday, 21 June 2011, Hegendorf, Germany.
A JROTC cadet at the Klettersteig.
A "Klettersteig" is a rock climbing area. The Hegendorf Klettersteig is west of Amberg and consists of about 300 meters of well-marked climbing trails. Climbers equipped with the proper equipment traverse the trails with the help of cables secured in the rock. This is a challenge for everyone, including experienced climbers. The convoy with Bravo Company cadets departs the dining facility at 0720 and arrives after a 80+ minute drive through the German countryside. ODR cadre from Schweinfurt issue climbing equipment and present instruction on it's use. Soon we are off on a 2 km hike up the hill to the climbing site. Besides climbing equipment, each cadet carries his or her pack with water, an MRE and fleece. The weather threatens a little, but ultimately it proves to be a beautiful day . . . the occasional sprinkles serve to cool off the climbers, but fail to dampen the spirit.
Wednesday, 22 June 2011, Hegendorf, Germany.
This morning it is Alpha Company's turn to travel west to the climbing area. Rain still threatens, but it remains dry and warm. Alpha cadets enjoy an excellent climbing experience just like Bravo. The rain holds off until we return to camp.