MCGREGOR RANGE COMPLEX, N.M. – The soldiers and civilians of the Network Integration Evaluation 13.1 hosted distinguished U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Marine Corps personnel from around the Training and Doctrine Command, during the Quarterly Futures Review, including Gen. Robert W. Cone, commanding general, TRADOC, Nov. 7.
“It was a great opportunity for TRADOC leadership and the Centers of Excellence to visit the Iron Brigade, and see how the brigade combat team is implementing new equipment and training as part of Army modernization,” said Col. Thomas Dorame, commander, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division.
Attending the visit were commanding generals and senior leaders from the Special Warfare Center and School, U.S. Army Capabilities Integration Center, U.S. Army Combined Arms Center, the United States Marine Corps Combat Development Command, and the Air Combat Command.
During his visit, Cone spoke to many soldiers and leaders in order to glean candid feedback about potential technologies and capabilities gaps that may still exist.
“Most of us have lived off the adrenaline rush of going down range,” Cone said. “When we don’t have a war to go to anymore, what units need to do is develop a passion for training.”
Cone also took the opportunity to answer questions from soldiers about topics ranging from the possible reduction in forces to cyber warfare.
“Soldiers are our credentials,” said Dorame. “It’s clear that Army leadership understands that and allows them to see that on the ground, gets their feedback, and uses it to engage and reinforce their commitment to Soldiers.”
“It’s far better to have this feedback before we buy something, then waste the Army’s money,” Cone said. “We’re going to go through some tough times in the year ahead. The important thing is that we trust in each other. We’re headed in the right direction. I’m excited about this unit,” he said.