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OKINAWA, Japan - At first glance, one may think calling for air support, aerial refueling, landing clearance, medical evacuation and air delivery is something they would see only in a video game. However, this is no game.
Marines with Marine Air Control Group 18 conducted a Marine air command and control system integrated systems training exercise at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma Aug. 15-17.
The training, which is conducted three times a year, is designed to ensure Marines are prepared to execute their tasks when in support of larger exercises throughout the year.
“This MISTEX is a rehearsal for Ulchi Freedom Guardian,” said Maj. John C. Barry, operations officer with the group, which is part of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force. “A three or four day MISTEX is normally held before each UFG or Key Resolve, while Ryukyu Warrior is normally a weeklong MISTEX event of its own.”
The training keeps the Marines prepared, allowing them to quickly respond to calls for air support, according to Sgt. Jesse R. Hiatt, an air support operations operator with Marine Air Support Squadron 2, MACG-18, 1st MAW, III MEF.
“The training is (effective) because everybody gathers situational awareness and builds on the information needed during a bigger operation to avoid being blindsided,” said Hiatt.
During the exercise, the Marines used a simulation generator, which produced challenging scenarios.
“We can reduce the amount of aircraft in the air and slow things down, or we can throw a whole bunch of things at the Marines and speed things up,” said Barry. “We can also put ground units into the simulation,” Barry added. “This allows the Marines to train on providing air support for the Marines on the ground.”
This is the third time the Marines have used the advance simulations combat operations trainer, or ASCOT, according to Barry. The Marines who are most experienced with the trainer create the scenarios for the exercise.
“I’m putting things out there to challenge them,” said Cpl. Marcos J. Galindo, an air control electronics operator with Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 18, MACG-18, 1st MAW, III MEF. “We want to be able to see how they handle the scenarios we create and correct any discrepancies now.”
The Marines performed well, even though this was their first time working together, according to Barry.
“There is definitely a lot of progress being made. It’s always rough getting the new Marines up to speed, but they (all did) a great job,” said Hiatt.
| Date Taken: | 08.17.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 08.23.2012 05:14 |
| Story ID: | 93678 |
| Location: | OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 95 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Marines practice their specialties, prepare for future exercises, by Sgt Daniel Valle, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
