MODEL tanks and helicopters invaded Okehampton Battle Camp last weekend, accompanied by the 6th Battalion The Rifle?s Salamanca Band. Enthusiasts were demonstrating their working models as part of the Civic Trust?s National Heritage Open Days, set against the backdrop of the 115 year old Camp buildings. Almost 2,500 visitors enjoyed watching the models being put through their paces by expert owners. The realistic diorama of Pegasus Bridge, the first D Day objective, caught visitors? eyes by its attention to detail, as did hundreds of other painstakingly constructed scale models. Youngsters had a go on the laser rifle range, improved their accuracy on the paintball ranges and fought in the laser Ultimate Combat Zone. They climbed on the Royal Marine?s rotating wall and guided by Devon Army Cadet Force, learned how to cross obstacles before climbing on their demanding wall. Old and young enjoyed finding out at first hand about soldiers? experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, relaxing to the 1940s concert by the Salamanca Band and examining displays of weapons, American Civil War items and Vickers Machine Guns. Others explored military artefacts on the moor with Dartmoor guide Paul Rendell and training area supervisor Paul Fletcher. Lt Col (Retd) Tony Clark, Commandant, Dartmoor Training Area, said: ?We were delighted to open Okehampton Camp to thousands of Dartmoor and military enthusiasts, and to give them a feel for how Dartmoor has trained millions of soldiers during the past 200 years. ?Its vital contribution to the training of light armed forces continues. As an integral part of the Dartmoor community, we are thrilled to entertain both local friends and visitors.? Peter Coaker, Chairman Devon Military Vehicle Trust, said ? Our members always enjoy a warm welcome when we visit Okehampton Camp to exhibit our vehicles and explain how they were used. ?The visitors were thrilled to hear of the exploits of these veteran vehicles. We all enjoy the NAAFI 1940s party that brings our members together with serving soldiers to share old and new war stories.?
