California Engineers Conduct Mobilization Training in the Snow

181st Multifunctional Training Brigade
Story by Maj. Jeffrey Gruidl

Date: 12.15.2010
Posted: 01.06.2011 16:18
News ID: 63133

FORT McCOY, Wis. — Soldiers from the 649th Engineer Company, California National Guard, based in Chico, Calif., conduct squad level movement training at Fort McCoy, Wis., as part of their mobilization training for deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Although December at Fort McCoy isn’t a radical change for the 649th Soldiers, it does take some adjustment to training in two feet of snow and temperatures in the low teens.

The 3rd Battalion, 335th Regiment, ensures the training unit is proficient in squad movement tactics. This training involves dismounted squads to organize, prepare, and execute a combat operation under live fire day and blank fire night time conditions.

Leaders must move an 8 to 12 soldier squad tactically and react to enemy contact. This is preparatory training for the platoon live fire exercise.