In ground combat, success depends on strong communication between ground forces and air assets. For U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Christian Nava, a native of California, connecting these forces is more than just his job; it is an important skill that protects friendly forces and accomplishes the mission.
Nava is an 0861 Fire Support Marine and an 8002 Joint Terminal Attack Controller. He currently serves as a JTAC instructor, where he trains newly qualified JTAC Marines and teaches them how to safely and effectively integrate fires during real world operations.
As an 0861, Nava focuses on coordinating indirect fire support for units on the ground. This includes working with M224 60mm lightweight mortars and M252 81mm mortars, as well as M777A2 lightweight 155mm howitzers. With his additional JTAC qualification, his responsibilities also include directing aircraft and close air support.
"Maneuver without fire is suicide, and fires without maneuver is a waste of rounds,” Nava explained, highlighting the important balance between movement on the ground and fire support.
As a JTAC instructor, his responsibilities include developing the skills of junior Marines to prepare them for the Fleet Marine Force. For Nava, one of the best parts of being an instructor is watching junior Marines improve and become confident in their abilities.
"Taking guys under your wing and seeing them be able to go out on their own two feet and, perform; that's definitely the most rewarding part,"Nava said."You have to make sure these guys have a really deep understanding of everything going on, because at the end of the day, the fire support team that deploys is small, four or five guys. You need to rely on that Marine; he's the one who's going to save your life."