Communication key to section live-fire training

Photo By Sgt. david martin | Two mounted vehicle crews from Troop C, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Inf. Div., coordinate movements and return fire to simulated enemy targets at Red Cloud Hotel facilities on Fort Stewart, Ga., June 21.  

FORT STEWART, GA, UNITED STATES

06.21.2012

Story by Capt. Matthew Fontaine 

4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division Public Affairs

FORT STEWART, Ga. – Soldiers with Troops A and C, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, conducted live-fire training of mounted and dismounted elements at Fort Stewart, Ga., June 21.

Prior to the culmination of the entire section training together, individual crews were first given a chance to hone their skills on the range and engage set targets.

“The crews are confronted with the decision of gaining cover behind a berm and delay return fire or engage the enemy without shielding the vehicle,” said 2nd Lt. Michael Shepard, officer in charge of the range the Troopers were training on known as Red Cloud Alpha. “This exercise not only prepares the commander of the crew to make important decisions in the middle of battle, but also improves the collaboration of each of the crews so the primary focus of the section training can be on the crews working and communicating with each other.”

During the section live fire later that day, five mounted vehicles maneuvered together clearing targets and communicating every action to the dismounted element located at the base of the range tower.

“I am focused on how effectively my guys are able to communicate throughout this training,” said Capt. Mark Morrison, Troop A commander. “Timely and accurate information is essential for success on any battlefield.”

Just down the road from the Troop A section live-fire, Troop C conducted their own mounted elements training at the Red Cloud Hotel facilities.

“The focus today is to have each platoon handle the challenge of a close ambush using various tactics,” said 1st Sgt. Willie Gordon, Troop C. “This exercise prepares the platoons to react properly to a surprise attack, refine [standard operating procedures] and familiarize mounted crews with coordinating movements, while simultaneously engaging the enemy.”

A final bright white flare was sent up to conclude the platoon’s exercise as all the vehicles returned to the range tower and the platoon gathered together for an after action review.

“Our guys improved on their direct fire implementation,” said Capt. Robert Heightchew, Troop C commander. “Refining our SOPs, particularly with communications, from this training will also pay dividends for future operations.”

• Date Taken: 06.21.2012
• Date Posted: 06.26.2012 16:53
• Story ID: 90634
• Location: FORT STEWART, GA, US