Troopers train to control all kinds of riots

GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA

07.29.2016

Story by Staff Sgt. Jess Williams 

Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs

The training began with a brief demonstration by JTF Trooper, Staff Sgt. Eric Boisvert, on how to keep the integrity of the formation and move as a single element; the Soldiers performed blocks and attacks with their batons.
Boisvert has hands-on riot control experience and attended an Army qualification instructor’s course to conduct riot control training. He has received additional riot control training from the Inter-service Non-lethal Individual Weapons Instructors Course.
The U.S. Marine taught-course provides superior non-lethal weapons training and certifies service members and other Department of Defense personnel to serve as trainers and unit advisors with respect to the tactical employment of individual non-lethal weapons.
“It’s a great school taught by the Marines,” said Boisvert. “They give instruction on every non-lethal weapon used by every branch of service. They go over the proper use of NWL, tactical movements and rules of engagement.”
Troopers became familiar with individual and collective tasks that support the commander’s mission essential task list and operational tempo. The performed tasks include civil disturbance formations, control force operations and how to communicate effectively during a riot.
“We’re trying to provide these guys with tough training, which is going to push them outside their typical skill set and make them a well-rounded Soldier,” said Sgt. 1st Class Martin Rodriguez, the 308th MP Co. first sergeant. “We want them to feel comfortable with executing the tasks. We want to put them in a place where they are not dealing with the day-to-day monotony of the camps.”
The training not only provides the Troopers to practice perishable skills, but also allows them to develop as individuals.
“Leader involvement in the training process is essential for mission success,” continued Rodriguez. “We want the young noncommissioned officers to get hands-on experience with leading their Soldiers.”
JTF GTMO allows commanders to focus on training for their Soldiers and provide different training capabilities and resources.
“JTF is a unique deployment environment,” said Capt. Rebecca Bathrick, the 308th MP Co. commander. “Our battalion has given us the opportunity to train with our Soldiers every week. Most of the time, we are focused on mobilization readiness and aren’t afforded the opportunity to train at home like we do here. A lot of the Reserve units back home don’t have equipment such as shields, batons and helmets.”
Although, it is unlikely a riot would occur at JTF GTMO, Troopers must stay abreast on riot control training.
“You never know when a riot may happen,” said Boisvert. “The more knowledge and training Soldiers get, the more comfortable and confident they become with their job, whether it be here on Guantanamo Bay or back home in the states.”

• Date Taken: 07.29.2016
• Date Posted: 08.23.2016 07:35
• Story ID: 207601
• Location: GUANTANAMO BAY, CU