Photo By Sgt. Neysa Huertas Quinones | Cpl. Ian M. Keyser looks through a rear view mirror during a combat convoy simulator...... read more read more
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CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - One of 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion’s tasks is to maintain a primary capability as a highly mobile, man-portable, surface-to-air weapons component of the Marine Air Ground Task Force with the ability to rapidly deploy ashore in the assault echelon of an expeditionary operation.
In order to do this, the Marines of 2nd LAAD Battalion need to be extremely proficient in convoy movements – they increased their proficiency to do this by utilizing a convoy simulator aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Sept. 9.
The use of the simulator increases speed and enhances record planning and execution, and rapid response to urgent warfighter needs. It delivered integrated and interoperable warfighting capabilities that forced 2nd LAAD Marines to react to several different scenarios.
A checkpoint was coordinated from a communication radio as Marines scanned a desert horizon for any movement during the simulated exercise.
“The Marines are using their basic communications skills to talk to each other while maneuvering, testing their land navigation skills with equipment they would use in a real convoy and learning the skills they need to actually conduct these movements in a real-world scenario,” said 1st Lt. Daniel Herm, the platoon commander for 2nd platoon, alpha battery with 2nd LAAD.
2nd LAAD is responsible for providing the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing with low altitude aerial defense against low flying aircraft, as well as security for air bases while in a deployed environment.
Marines were tasked to conduct a standard patrol through a designated route around a simulated forward operating base. Throughout the scenario, controllers planted replicated improvised explosive devices, which the Marines were tasked to identify and eliminate. This ability is crucial, as Marines would risk injury or death to members of their convoy or loosing other vehicles if they failed to detect an IED.
Ambushes were placed to test the Marines’ abilities to react to contact and eliminate a threat while patrolling throughout villages. The simulator allowed controllers to adjust to the Marines actions to create a fully interactional and life like training exercise.
The Marines drove through deserts, local towns and were able to interact with the local public.
Using the simulator, the Marines could travel up-to 70 kilometers during their movement, said Herm. The simulation controllers have the ability to create several scenarios and interact with the Marines to challenge their knowledge and problem solving skills.
“This training allows us to put into practice all of the things we learn as members of 2nd LAAD,” explained Cpl. Nicholas Friday, a low altitude air defense gunner with the battalion. “During the exercise we got hands-on training that mimics the hazards of a real convoy and puts into perspective all the training we conduct while not deployed.”
Marines with the squadron were also tested on their ability to work together as a team to solve a problem in a combat scenario, said Friday. Every Marine with the convoy played a crucial role in the security of the troops and accuracy of the mission.
“The simulator allowed us to grow closer as a battalion for one common goal, while still sharpening our combat skills,” said Friday. “It brings Marines a new level of confidence in their combat readiness skills as they see the real-time results of how their decision making can help protect the lives of not only themselves, but their fellow Marines.”
| Date Taken: | 09.15.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 09.15.2015 12:29 |
| Story ID: | 176082 |
| Location: | MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 93 |
| Downloads: | 2 |
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