Operation Vigilant Catamount’s JOC is the center for all command operations and allow commanders and the different staff sections to jointly plan, monitor and guide the execution of the multiple exercises taking place throughout western North Carolina.
“As COP managers, we have to know and maintain an up to date operating picture for the commanders and the different sections,” says Staff Sgt. Andrew Baker, J3 assistant operations NCO.
Operation Vigilant Catamount is jointly training emergency response forces from over five different counties integrated with National Guard units from across the state as well as a National Guard unit from Tennessee. Overseeing and supervising all the Vigilant Catamounts operations is the J3, Maj Bradley Merritt. Maj Merritt along with his Current Operations Battle Captain, Maj Rodney Woody, Operations Sgt Maj, Rick Handlin and their staff of approximately 39 soldiers work to ensure the JOC remains the hub for incoming and outgoing information.
“What we do here is going to be a benefit for not only those inside this room but those training out there in the field,” says Maj Woody.
The JOC consist of four major joint staff sections working together. These staffs position, J1 (personnel), J2 (intelligence), J3 (operations) and J4 (logistics) are charged with maintaining good situational awareness and providing commanders and staff with a working operating picture from their standpoint.
An example of how the different sections assist the forces on the ground is explained by Maj Nick McVain, J4’s operations deputy. “We keep track of all the force packages being task to us so we can plan their logistics and project out what requirements are going to be needed and assist them (the ground forces) in getting the support they need to maintain the fight,” says Maj McVain.
The JOC will continue to function as long as forces are on the ground.