Engineers practice sweep techniques

Photo By Cpl. John McCall | Lance Cpl. Eric Zimmerman, 20, a combat engineer from Sedalia, Mo., inspects a patch of dirt after receiving a hit from his metal detector during training at Forward Operating Base Musa Qaleh, Oct. 27. Engineers of 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division (Forward), practice sweeping and interrogating techniques often in order to minimize the high threat of improvised explosive devices in Afghanistan.  

CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN

10.27.2010

Story by Cpl. John McCall 

1st Marine Division

FORWARD OPERATING BASE MUSA QALEH, Afghanistan – The importance of countering improvised explosive devices is constantly on the minds of the Marines with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion as they refreshed their skills during IED detection training at Forward Operating Base Musa Qaleh, Afghanistan, Oct. 27.

The main focus of the training was how to properly assess an IED once found during a sweep.

“We went over sweeping and interrogation techniques to ensure the Marines know how to handle the situation if they should uncover an IED,” said Sgt. Micah Crooks, 24, a squad leader from Alexandria, La. “The more practice we get the more efficient we will be in determining if what we detected is an actual IED or just a false hit.”

Engineers practiced sweeping in soft and loose dirt around the FOB, which is very similar to what they will face on a real mission.

“It’s important that we stay sharp because there are IEDs everywhere,” Crooks explained. “They are the biggest threat we have out here.”

Acting as a quick reaction force for the FOB, engineers are responsible for clearing major routes used to transport supplies to nearby outposts as well as escorting any smaller units that need assistance in accomplishing their mission.

Clearing routes to allow for safe travel by both military personnel and civilians is a major priority for the 1st CEB engineers. Through practice, these Marines can ensure that they are prepared to minimize the high threat of IEDs that make roads dangerous to travel on.

“The practice is real useful because it teaches us what to do when we discover an IED,” said Lance Cpl. Cameron Dyson, 20, a combat engineer from Beaumont, Texas. “This way when we leave the wire and find something it will be like second nature to us since its fresh in our minds.”

These Marines continue their weekly practice, as they remain prepared for any mission that might come their way.

• Date Taken: 10.27.2010
• Date Posted: 10.28.2010 13:06
• Story ID: 59001
• Location: CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF