Montana National Guard Builds Readiness During Northern Strike 26-2
Courtesy Photo |
Soldiers from the Montana Army National Guard’s 631st Chemical Company analyze a......read moreread more
Courtesy Photo | Soldiers from the Montana Army National Guard’s 631st Chemical Company analyze a simulated chemical agent inside a training facility during Northern Strike 26-2 at Camp Grayling, Michigan, in August 2026. The exercise validated the unit’s readiness to assess and mitigate chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. see less
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Montana National Guard Builds Readiness During Northern Strike 26-2
MISSOULA, Mont. — Montana Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 631st Chemical Company participated in Northern Strike 26-2 at Camp Grayling, Michigan, Aug. 2-14, conducting a company-level field training exercise designed to test the unit’s ability to operate independently and execute a wide range of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear missions.
Northern Strike is an Army-sponsored, multi-component, multinational exercise conducted annually in Michigan and designed to build readiness and improve interoperability among U.S. and allied forces.
The 631st mobilized to Northern Strike with its weapons, equipment and vehicles, allowing the company to conduct sustained operations throughout the exercise. From Aug. 4-11, the company conducted a field training exercise that included command post operations, mounted and dismounted CBRN reconnaissance, and dismounted decontamination operations.
The company’s mounted platoon operated four Strykers across Camp Grayling’s varied training areas, conducting reconnaissance missions through multiple types of terrain. Meanwhile, the dismounted platoon incorporated unmanned aircraft systems and robotic platforms to conduct reconnaissance while allowing Soldiers to identify and assess potential hazards from a safer distance.
The environment required Soldiers to solve logistical and operational challenges while continuing to accomplish the company’s assigned missions.
“Our Soldiers took on these challenges with professionalism and focus. 631stwas able to execute a wide variety of missions and was evaluated on our collective mission essential tasks by First Army,” said Capt. Caleb Struble, commander of the 631st Chemical Company.
The company was evaluated by First Army, providing leaders and Soldiers an opportunity to assess the unit’s readiness under demanding field conditions.
“We trained hard and I am proud of what we were able to accomplish,” Struble said. “The soldiers learned a lot and are better prepared as we move into training year 2027.”
The training strengthened the 631st Chemical Company’s readiness and lethality while reinforcing the “Montana Way” — disciplined Soliders who adapt, overcome challenges and remain ready to accomplish the mission.
