TORII STATION, Okinawa, Japan - Eleven soldiers from the 10th Regional Support Group, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, simulated firing the M249 light machine gun Jan. 8, at the Training Support Center here. Using the engagement skills simulated trainer with computer generated targets, soldiers were able to refine their marksmanship skills. Prior to the initial training, soldiers received a comprehensive class on light machine gun familiarization. The M249 was formerly known as the Squad Automatic Weapon.
According to Spc. Angela Smith, the M249 light machine gun seems more powerful than the M16 assault rifle. “The M249 provides Army Soldiers with the heavy volume of machine gun fire combined with accuracy and portability approaching that of a rifle.”
On Jan. 9, Capt. Nathan A. Elkins, officer in charge and company commander, and Staff Sgt. James E. Beal, safety noncommissioned officer, conducted M249 range qualification on Camp Hansen. Nine Soldiers qualified as expert taking their role as perimeter defense member for the headquarters company.