CAMP FOWLER, Ind. - Inclement weather did not stop Indiana's Guardsmen from Company C of the 638th Aviation Support Battalion from training in their military specialties, Oct. 18, 2014 at Camp Fowler, Ind.
"You can't pick the environment in which you operate," said Capt. Andy Mapes, Company C commander.
While the Soldiers were setting up their communications network and sleeping location, it was raining, the wind chill was in the 40s, and the temperature was around 50 degrees. Most of which was not forecasted.
"It was good for me as a commander to see the reaction of my Soldiers to be out in this situation," said Mapes.
At Camp Fowler, the Soldiers setup up two antennas at opposite ends of the camp. Depending on the line of sight, trees or other obstructions, the antennas have the capability to communicate nearly 9.5 miles with each other.
"It's an opportunity to maintain proficiency, so we are ready for anything whether it's slinging sandbags in Indiana or deploying; we want to be duty proficient," said Mapes when asked about what was positive while training during inclement weather.
Mapes' theme of proficiency was echoed by his team.
"Being in the National Guard, we have a short window of time to train; it's our goal for everyone to be proficient in their equipment," said Sgt. Marcus Kindler, a signal support communications specialist from Muncie, Ind.
Maximizing training time for younger Soldiers straight out of their initial training was vital as well said Kindler.
The mission for the Soldiers of Company C requires them to be ready for aviation communication support operations for their headquarters, the 38th Combat Aviation Brigade.
Supporting the 38th CAB requires them to be ready to provide the state of Indiana equipment and aviation support capabilities.
They have to stay ready to respond to state emergencies and other missions throughout Indiana and states participating in the Emergency Management Assistance Compact.
Company C is headquartered in Lafayette, Ind.