Photo By Sgt. Grace L. Waladkewics | Marines with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion parachute toward the ground after jumping...... read more read more
Subscribe
CHERRY POINT, N.C. - Members of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252 performed static-line jumps with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion at Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue Monday and Tuesday.
Approximately 30 Marines jumped from low altitudes both night and day out of a KC-130J Hercules flown by VMGR-252 Marines. Static-line jumps are conducted with the use of a fixed cord attached to the inside of the aircraft used to open parachutes automatically for jumpers.
The purpose of the training was to improve the combat readiness of pilots, crew members and jumpers.
“Combat readiness is essential to mission success and this training helps ensure that the Marines are ready for anything,” said 1st Lt. Jenner M. Yuhas, a KC-130J pilot with VMGR-252.
The training helped the transport squadron sharpen their skills as well as practice planning and coordination with the 2nd Recon Bn. mission, according to Yuhas.
This is basic training so the Marines on both ends have less to worry about when they put these skills into practice, said Yuhas. Static line jump training is crucial to reconnaissance Marines airborne insert and sustainment capabilities.
“Being able to insert Marines into the fight from anywhere at any time is important in every situation,” said Maj. Michael L. Valenti, a KC-130J aircraft commander with VMGR-252.
This bi-monthly training allows the squadron crew members to build critical skills in conjunction with 2nd Recon.
“This training helps strengthen the relationship between the ground side and the air side. They are getting the qualifications they need to jump while we are getting the qualifications to allow them to jump,” said Valenti.
In addition to its primary role as an aerial refueling squadron, VMGR-252 provides aerial insertion, close air support, and assualt support to Marines operating on the ground. If something needs to happen, they are the ones who will make it happen, Valenti said.
Aerial insertions are crucial said Master Sgt. Daniel R. Howe. Although they are not necessary in every situation, when you need them, there is nothing like it, said Howe, an operations chief with 2nd Recon.
“This training for 2nd Recon was sustainment, and it helped many of the Marines attain qualifications and certifications,” said Howe. “The Marines were given new parachutes that they were not trained with while attending school and this training finished up their qualifications.”
Everything went as planned and the mission for the training was accomplished, said Howe. Marines on both sides performed well, he said.
| Date Taken: | 11.19.2013 |
| Date Posted: | 11.21.2013 09:23 |
| Story ID: | 117140 |
| Location: | MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, NC, US |
| Web Views: | 172 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Transport squadron supports recon jump, by Sgt Grace L. Waladkewics, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
No keywords found.
LEAVE A COMMENT