By Spc. Laura E. Ruscio
27th Public Affairs Detachment
LOGISTICS SUPPORT AREA ANACONDA, Balad, Iraq - Soldiers from the 129th Logistics Task Force Battalion gladly accepted the challenge to put their warrior skills to the test April 11 to 14 during their first battalion training competition.
The week began with two days of training for the 11 highly motivated teams. After their training, the Soldiers were tested on their knowledge and had the opportunity to earn bonus points that could make or break the competition during a sling-load exercise.
The teams consisted of five Soldiers and were tested in six different lanes: vehicles, generators, weapons, Nuclear Biological and Chemical, commo and sling-loading. Each lane tested the team's ability to identify deficiencies in their equipment.
"The training has gone very well. The Soldiers are very motivated, they are focused on their warrior tasks and executing every one of those tasks to standard," said Lt. Col. Mario Garcia, 129th LTF Bn commander.
After their six-lane evaluation the Soldiers headed to the most anticipated event, the sling-load operation, where they would be tested on their ability to attach cargo to a Chinook while it is hovering overhead.
"This was the first sling-load for many of the Soldiers and they have been looking forward to this event. They have done an excellent job during the evaluation," said Cpt. Tandy Brown, 372nd commander.
"This training is not only fun for them, but it is great experience and will be very valuable throughout their careers."
After the scores were tallied the top performing teams were given awards.
The 211th Maintenance Company team exceeded the standard and took home first place; leaving the 10 other teams very close behind.
An award for the best instructor during the training phase was also given. Sgt. 1st Class Michael Fraley, 372nd Transportation Company, was recognized for his outstanding leadership and initiative to give the Soldiers top-notch training.
"I am impressed everyday by the level of commitment and professionalism of our Soldiers. They are doing a spectacular job out here," Garcia said. "Their hearts are really in the mission and that's all that matters."
Editor's Note: Spc. Laura E. Ruscio is a member of the 27th Public Affairs Detachment at LSA Anaconda.
| Date Taken: | 04.27.2005 |
| Date Posted: | 04.27.2005 07:37 |
| Story ID: | 1694 |
| Location: | BALAD, IQ |
| Web Views: | 51 |
| Downloads: | 12 |
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