Air Cadets from Tynemouth have swapped their blue berets for green ones this week, when they trained with the Royal Marines.
The cadets were invited to Royal Marine Reserve Tyne to take part in a mult-activity day, lead by Royal Marine Warrant Officer Steve Garrow.
Also taking part were cadets from 2344 (Longbenton) and 733 (Newcastle Airport) Squadrons.
The cadet tried their hand at leadership challenges, looked at some of the weapons used by the marines and took part in sports, Royal Marines style.
Cadet flight sergeant Chris Johnston (17) from North Shields enjoyed getting to grips with the training. "I really enjoyed the abseil that we did, it was ace. It was the first time I'd abseiled over 50 feet. It was quite an achievement."
The highlight of the day was a chance to take to the water in two of the specially designed boats which are used by the marines. Corporal Beth Anderson picks up the story, "We had a safety briefing, put our life vests on and took to the water. I was all very James Bond, I felt like a secret agent jetting along the water." With stunning views of the quayside, the team travelled up the River Tyne to Scotswood and back again.
Event organiser, Flying Office James Elliott told us why the day was important. "All our young people should have an understanding of the work that is carried out by all parts of the armed forces, not just the RAF. Our cadets have had a tasted of how highly skilled the Royal Marines are and an insight into the sort of things they do on their behalf."
The last word was left to Corporal Anderson who summed the day up "It was brilliant!"