NAVAL WEAPONS STATION YORKTOWN, Va. –
Soldiers from the 271st Movement Control Team, 53rd Movement Control Battalion, 7th Sustainment Brigade, Fort Eustis, Va., concluded a three-day counter-improvised explosive device training class at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, Va., June 13, in preparation for an upcoming deployment.
During the hands-on portion of the training, Soldiers learned how to move as a convoy, react to an IED explosion and ambush, and how to treat injuries that may occur during these events.
"This training has been very useful," said 2nd Lt. Ryan Waldorf, 271st MCT movement control officer. "It's helped us prepare, ensuring we are trained and ready to go when we arrive in country."
The Soldiers used an area of the Naval Weapons Station that is set up as a small village consisting of four buildings. It is run by Department of Defense contractors who not only filled the role of cadre for the training, but also acted as insurgents using paintball guns as weapons. The simulated environment allows Soldiers to have realistic training by putting them in high-stress situations where they are actually fired upon.
"Using paintball and airsoft weapons gives us a good idea of what it's actually like to be in a firefight." Waldorf said. "It allowed us to see how each of us will react in a high-stress environment, and it strengthens our teamwork."
Pfc. Alonoso Bradley, 271st MCT movement specialist, is one of the many Soldiers who participated in the training.
"This training taught me to be more aware of my surroundings," Bradley said. "It also helped our team greatly. We are closer now as a team, and we know that we have each other's backs."
Prior to the hands-on portion of the training, Soldiers used a high-tech computer simulator which allowed them to experience some friendly competition. While some Soldiers learned how to react to an ambush using a simulated High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle, their battle buddies were at the other end of the training unit learning how to setup an ambush, playing the role of insurgents.
While the Soldiers admitted training was intense and stressful at times, it strengthened the skills and teamwork of the 271st MCT. Over the coming months, they will continue training, building upon their new found skills as they prepare for their deployed mission.