3-4 Cavalry conducts squadron level live-fire exercise

Photo By Staff Sgt. Catrina Herbert | Soldiers with 3rd Squadron 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, held their mounted and dismounted validation Field Training Exercise (FTX) here on Aug. 25-27  

SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, HI, UNITED STATES

08.28.2014

Story by Staff Sgt. Catrina Herbert 

3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division

SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii – Soldiers with 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, held a Squadron level Field Training Exercise (FTX) here on Aug. 25-27.

The purpose of the training was to certify section leaders in mounted and dismounted live-fire operations for upcoming deployments to Pohakula Training Area (PTA), and Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC).

The operation also facilitated mission command at the Troop and Squadron level.

“The training will help troops hone their existing reconnaissance skills, validate Standard Operation Procedures (SOP), and refine direct fire control measures,” said Sgt First Class Craig Trotter, HHD Troop 3-4 Cav, a native of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

During the training sections worked together communicating as a team while mounted elements provided cover fire to the dismounted teams as they engaged enemy forces.

Spc. Darwin Garcia, Blackfoot Troop 3-4 Cav, a native of Mrytle Beach, South Carolina, stated, “This training was needed because as Cavalrymen we not only are the eyes and ears of the commander, but we also need to know how to react and defend ourselves when necessary.”

Garcia also went on to say, “The training also eliminates mistakes that can hinder us in the upcoming platoon live-fire or future deployments.”

The training will benefit the troops and squadron by producing better, faster and more effective crews, teams, leaders and Soldiers.

“It will allow Troop Commanders to evaluate the sections and assist the squadron commander to better allocate resources and training time appropriately,” said 1st Lt. Kenji Sugimoto, Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3-4 Cav, from Miami, Florida.

Garcia said, “When commanders observe how flawlessly 3-4 Cav troops perform, Soldiers gain their trust and confidence.”
“This was an amazing FTX and helped me and my fellow team leaders identify the weaknesses and strengths of our teams. We improve every iteration,” said Garcia.

• Date Taken: 08.28.2014
• Date Posted: 08.28.2014 22:32
• Story ID: 140774
• Location: SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, HI, US