By 1st Lt. Jerimiah Wildermuth
BAGHDAD, Iraq -- With redeployment quickly approaching and the scorching Iraqi sun pushing temperatures well over 115 degrees Fahrenheit, the 141st Signal Battalion continues training in order to keep Soldiers" warrior skills sharp.
Recently, the battalion conducted four M-16A2 rifle and M-249 Squad Automatic Weapon firing ranges. Soldiers took on Convoy Reaction Drills, Drivers Training and Common Task Training in addition to the marksmanship qualifications and refresher training.
The primary focus of the training was to prepare approximately 30 Soldiers, who had recently arrived from Germany, for the rigors of patrolling through central Iraq and convoy operations to Kuwait.
Other Soldiers underwent sustainment training to keep their skills sharp.
Demonstrating ingenuity and creativity, the battalion's NCOs found a few ways to fight the heat.
Range NCOIC, Sgt. 1st Class Michael Wood of Alpha Company devised a plan to shade the entire firing line using a solar shield. This technique not only helped Soldiers qualifying, but also made the range safety and tower NCOs" job much easier. Wood also brought to the range a deep freezer, stocked with ice, ensuring cold water for all soldiers. These procedures were implemented across the battalion to beat the heat while continuing to train.
The training, though difficult in the heat, helped build the confidence of the new Soldiers and has left them prepared for what lies outside of the safety of the Baghdad International Airport.
"Arriving in Baghdad, I had a lot of worries," said Pfc. Broderick Punch of Bravo Company, "but with all the training and the soldiers and NCOs really bringing me into the team, I feel pretty calm about heading down to Kuwait. And if something does happen, I'll know how to handle it."
| Date Taken: | 07.08.2004 |
| Date Posted: | 07.08.2004 10:05 |
| Story ID: | 97 |
| Location: | BAGHDAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 215 |
| Downloads: | 139 |
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