FORT HOOD, Texas - Under a clear October sky, the boom of the M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle echoed through the arid central Texas hill country Monday afternoon at the Jack Mountain Multi-use Range, during Table 12 of gunnery training for the 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment.
"Gunnery is a strategic training exercise in which Soldiers learn to communicate and work as a team and qualify, from the individual weapon to a mechanized platoon element," said Lt. Col. Paul Krattiger, of Albuquerque. N.M., commander of 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment.
Each team is made up of the Bradley crew and the dismounted patrol squad.
"There are 10 different scenarios the Soldiers must negotiate," said Krattiger. "In order to qualify, a crew must successfully pass seven of the scenarios and score a minimum of 700 points."
After two weeks of training, the hard work and preparation was evident as they maneuvered through the obstacles with ease.
"In today's event, the dismounted patrol assaulted a trench and the Bradley crew repelled an offensive attack, and won," said Sgt. Edward Prewitt, of Jacksonville, Fla., an infantryman with Bravo Company.
Although the days are often long, Krattiger hopes his Soldiers gain confidence in their weapons, crew members and leadership.
"They have to trust in their ability to eliminate a threat," he said.
For many, the effort they give now can only help them in the future.
"Your training really does kick in during [a deployment]," said Prewitt. "What we do here will determine how we do downrange."
1/5th CAV is only half way through their training requirements. Next week the Abrams Tank crews will have their chance to qualify during the next phase of gunnery.
As the day's training went on, Krattiger stood, amazed at the intensity the Soldiers brought to the fight and was also grateful for the support of the families back home.
"It is because of their strength and effort in the rear that we can be out here training to defend our country," said Krattiger.
Social Sharing