SHINDAND AIRBASE, Afghanistan – On Jan. 26, 2013, the soldiers of the 704th Engineer Company (Clearance) completed its transfer of authority with soldiers from the 510th Engineer Company (Clearance). The TOA marks the end of the relief in place process that takes place when units replace each other in theater. It also marks the end of a successful train up and the taking up of the operational mantle by the 704th.
During the month of January, soldiers from both companies focused on the RIP with motivation and vigor. The 510th ensured that they received world class training on the vehicles, clearance operations and mission preparation. The soldiers conducted joint left-seat/right-seat rides where the 510th led missions to show soldiers the area of operation and then soldiers from 704th took charge of missions with an adviser. The time spent together had tremendous learning value and has prepared the 704th to clear the way.
The soldiers also conducted a variety of training at various locations in Afghanistan. Soldiers learned how to blow improvised explosive devices in place, how to operate various mine detectors, and how to perform counter-IED missions. In addition to training, the soldiers also met up with their Afghan National Army route clearance counterparts and conducted a key leader engagement to continue their development and relationship built by the 510th.
Overall, the experience so far has been great for the soldiers and they have been highly motivated. They are receiving a unique experience in that we operate under a truly joint-international command in Regional Command-West (RC-W). The region is led by the Italians, but they are supported by the Spanish, Lithuanians, Albanians, Slovenians, etc. Being able to work in a coalition environment is very rewarding and will continue to provide great cultural experiences.
The 704th Engineer Company is operationally ready to tackle any challenge and will strive for excellence during its rotation to Afghanistan. The soldiers are the tip of the spear and have an important mission to accomplish.
Their actions will truly embody the 489th motto, “In the thick of the fight!” as we accomplish the 704th mission to “Clear the way!”
| Date Taken: | 02.05.2013 |
| Date Posted: | 02.05.2013 05:36 |
| Story ID: | 101469 |
| Location: | SHINDAND AIR BASE, AF |
| Web Views: | 362 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, 704th Engineer Company assumes clearance operations in RC-West, by CPT Joshua Yarbrough, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
