POWIDZ, Poland - Field artillery Soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team conducted battery qualifications training near Torun, Poland Dec. 5-7.
The training allowed an opportunity for the battalion's command team to evaluate each battery's capabilities and efficiency in order to support the brigade commander's intent.
"This qualification shows we can provide fires on time, accurately and with as much violence possible," said Capt. Billy Atwood, B Batt. commander, 1-7 FA, 2nd ABCT.
A firing crew consists of four Soldiers, with a chief who is usually the highest ranking and receives the firing order from his commander.
“When the mission comes down from the commander, I verify ammunition, safety, azimuth, emplacement of the round amongst other things,” said Staff Sgt. Michael Vacanti, crew chief assigned to B Batt, 1-7 FA, 2nd ABCT.
The 24-year-old has been a field artillery Soldier for over five years and has loved every second of his job. Vacanti said being certified tells higher echelons that this battery is combat ready for providing accurate and lethal fire.
The training qualification took place at a Polish training area designated for high explosive artillery detonation. Poland, a U.S. ally, was able to see the U.S. Army's fires capabilities as the battalion conducted their annual qualification.
"We get to show our host nation what we are capable of and how we can help them in the case of a conflict," said Atwood.
Atwood said training like this allows both nations to see each other's tactics, techniques and procedures making it possible for adaptability to reach a common goal.
Dagger Brigade, based out of Fort Riley, Kan., is deployed to Europe in support of Atlantic Resolve. Atlantic Resolve is a U.S. endeavor to fulfill NATO commitments by rotating U.S.-based units throughout Europe.
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"Our guys are happy to be here and the training is outstanding," said Atwood. " This is an awesome opportunity to train the way we are suppose to fight."