449th Engineer Company train at NTC in preparation for deployment

Photo By Sgt. Devin Wood | Cpl. Cody Michaud, A combat engineer with the 449th Engineer Company pulls security while a dismount team searches for roadside bombs during a route clearance mission, March 21, 2012 at the National Training Center here. The 449th was responsible for keeping key logistical routes open for 3rd Infantry Division.  

FORT IRWIN, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES

03.23.2012

Story by Spc. Devin Wood 

412th Theater Engineer Command

FORT IRWIN, Calif. -- The harsh terrain of the Mojave Desert allows for realistic training and a chance for units to exercise their skill sets in an environment similar to the Middle East.

Army Reserve soldiers from the 449th Engineer Company, 478th Engineer Battalion, 926th Engineer Brigade, had the opportunity to train and assess their combat support expertise at the National Training Center, Feb. 19 to March 23, 2012.

For five weeks, members of the Fort Thomas, Ky.-based unit participated in complex training scenarios and conducted route clearance operations in preparation for their deployment to Afghanistan.

"This is the best training I can give my soldiers before going down range," said Capt. Travis W. Absher, commander of 449th Engineer Company.

The 449th supported the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, by keeping all logistical routes clear of roadside bombs and insurgent activities.

"Working alongside 3rd ID gives us the chance to show that the Army Reserve is capable of operating during war time," said Absher. "We aren't just weekend warriors. "

Many of the soldiers operated route clearance equipment for the first time during the rotation.

"We don't have all of this equipment back at home station," said Cpl. Cody Michaud, a squad leader with 2nd platoon. "Being here and having these things issued to us really helps us prepare better."

"The STX lanes were pretty intense," said Spc. Michael Klahnen, a team leader with 2nd Platoon, 449th Engineer Company. "Opposing forces, IEDs [roadside bombs] allowed us to exercise our basic skills."

Absher said the training scenario at NTC has honed his soldiers skills and increased survivability.

"My payment will be bringing all these soldiers home safely," said Absher.

• Date Taken: 03.23.2012
• Date Posted: 04.03.2012 14:08
• Story ID: 86181
• Location: FORT IRWIN, CALIFORNIA, US