During the scenario-based JRTC, trained actors portraying angry civilians held a protest to gain the attention of leaders at the consulate. The civilians gathered to express their complaints with the American presence in their country and create a situation of ethnic tension.
As a counteraction, the Paratroopers are made to respond as if they were in a combat environment dealing with local nationals.
"I think having that kind of pressure put on you is healthy and the role players do a great job of asking legitimate questions,” said Sgt. Ross Leonard, fire team leader and Southern Pines, N.C. native assigned to Co. B, 1-505 PIR. "This is a real test of professionalism that helps us realize what a big impression we make."
The goal of JRTC is to prepare soldiers for real-world situations that they will encounter while deployed. Theses situations even include a local media outlet, the 'Al-Mediyah Times', to which the soldiers need to answer for an added detail.
Because the primary purpose of the infantrymen was to provide security, a psychological operations unit was called in to help quiet the riot and relieve the tension. Once individual questions and concerns were addressed, the locals, having been heard, left.