Assault Command Post tests the waters

U.S. Army Central
Story by Cpl. Ryan Hohman

Date: 07.27.2010
Posted: 07.27.2010 08:26
News ID: 53457

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – Soldiers with Third Army tested contingency operations for their Assault Command Post by loading all necessary equipment onto a Logistical Support Vessel 6 and a Landing Craft Utility at Kuwait Naval Base in Third Army’s area of operation, July 23.

The ACP allows Third Army to Sustain the Fight by acting as a self-sustaining central hub, which can provide command and control to any situation in any environment within the Third Army Area of Responsibility.

Soldiers used this training as a way to prepare for any problems which might arise that would not allow the movement of the equipment, normally deployed by C-17 aircraft.
“Because the ACP has to be ready to deploy within 96 hours,” said Sgt. 1st Class Renard Chaffin, who serves as the noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the ACP, Third Army, “we would use the watercraft as a contingency plan should air not be an option.”

After the Soldiers were given training on the capabilities of the vessels, they quickly began loading their equipment.

“Loading the equipment went really smooth,” said Pfc. Adam Kangieser, water craft operator, 411th Transportation Detachment, LSV 6. “They were able to get everything on board quickly, so that we could strap it down and secure it for the trip.”

With this training Soldiers were given the opportunity to not only work with their equipment but learn how to work aboard a watercraft vessel.

“Many Soldiers have never worked on a ship,” said Chaffin. “They had to learn how to drive their vehicles aboard a ship, where the equipment would go, and how to work aboard a ship.”

This learning experience proved to be helpful for the ship’s crew as well.

“It was good for the [LSV 6 crew] to see how the equipment for the ACP would fit aboard the ship,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Justin Trenary, Chief Mate, with the 411th Transportation Detachment, LSV 6. “Only when you train as you fight can you recognize and correct any problems that do or could occur.”

Once everything was on board, and before heading out to sea, Soldiers were given a tour of the watercraft where they were able to learn where crew members slept, worked out and ate. The ship preformed a quick trip out into the water before returning back to port.

“Training like this is important because it helps us keep our edge by emphasizing the safety factors with the entire evolution of the mission,” said Trenary. “It gave us a chance to learn how to work together so we can always get the mission done.”

By testing contingency operations for their ACP, Soldiers with Third Army will be prepared to Sustain the Fight in any part of Third Army’s 20-country area of operations.