Landmarc Support Services, Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the military recently teamed up to arrange a dream day out at the Stanford Training Area (STANTA) in Norfolk for a local youngster.
17 year old Dominic Feaks of Mundford in Norfolk had been due to take part in a tour of the Training Area organised by his local parish council. As he was contemplating a career in the services Dominic was really looking forward to this opportunity to see first-hand what exciting and demanding things such a career would deliver.
Sadly when Dominic was diagnosed with Bone Cancer his hopes of military service were shattered. As well as this the course of chemotherapy meant that he had to miss out on the tour.
Dominic’s mother Sarah Pymer contacted Landmarc to try and arrange a surprise tour and the whole team worked hard to arrange a day to remember for Dominic.
The day began with a full tour of the Afghan village, the Iraq village and other ranges and training facilities. An in-depth briefing on all aspects of the area then followed by Landmarc’s Trevor Gedge, and Sgt Tony Smith from DIO.
For Dominic the highlight was when he was given the chance to meet serving members of 1 Royal Anglican Regiment who were training on the area and learn all about the SA80 rifle which he was even given the chance to fire.
He said of the day, “I really enjoyed the day out at STANTA, it was much better than I had hoped. I was lucky enough to have a tour around the whole area and the timing just worked out as we were told some troops were on an exercise and we could go and watch and see how they train. This day really meant a lot to me as I have been in hospital a lot and it was really nice to get out and have a fun day without worrying about anything. Thanks to everyone who helped arrange this special day out for me.”
Dominic’s mother Sarah commented, “Dom had a fantastic day out at STANTA and often talks about it. For me it was great to see him with a smile on his face and having such a good time. It certainly was one of the highlights of his summer and a day he will never forget. A big thanks for everyone who made that happen.”