Live-fire exercise demonstrates readiness, resolve

GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- The shattering blasts of the battlefield can rattle anyone standing in their presence, but an aura of calm emanated from the Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. Maintaining solid concentration as well as an air of caution, the combined companies of the 2-12th conducted a live-fire exercise on May 26, 2017 at Grafenwoehr Training Area, Germany.

This particular training took place as part of an emergency deployment readiness exercise that saw the entire battalion deployed on simulated battlefields in less than a month. The exercise is a component of the Army's readiness initiative, which strives to prepare units to be deployed anywhere the world on short notice.

During the training, teams worked together at the battalion level. Mortar teams and Humvees supported dismounted troops. The dismounted movements took part in many scenarios, including building infiltration and firing from trenches. The teams used both live fire and blank rounds in the training, which took place during the day and night.

1st Lt. Christopher Watson, a scout platoon leader with 2-12th, elaborated on the importance of this type of training. "It's crucial not only for the individual Soldier, but for the all of the teams and squads making up the platoon," he said.

The firing range served as the ultimate test of teamwork, as well as a challenge for the individual Soldiers. With the sights and sounds of a genuine battle raging around them, the Soldiers of the 2-12th were pushed against a mental wall, yet stood firm with resilience and reliance on the skills they have fostered while on deployment and at home. Spc. Craig Labistre Jr., a medic with weapon squad, 2nd platoon, 2-12th explained what it's like to be a part of the fray.

"It's not really different whether it's dry or live fire. You use the same skills and having discipline is still important either way, so when you're actually fighting it's almost second nature," he said.

Following the drills, Soldiers and their leaders gathered to discuss the merits and faults of the training to ensure that troops would be even more effective during future exercises. During all aspects of their deployment, the infantrymen of the 2-12th have not stopped working to perfect their profession of arms, proving that the Army is indeed ready to go anywhere any time.