Soldiers from Alpha Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment took part in a M2 Bradley gunnery at Range 1 on Goldstone Road here, May 16 " 23, 2011. The focus of the gunnery was to qualify Soldiers for use on the Bradley.

The range tested Soldiers on their ability to fire while driving, hit moving targets, nighttime operations, ammunition familiarization and their ability to function during a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear attack.

“The range doesn’t just teach Soldiers how to shoot a big cannon off of a big vehicle,” said 1st Sgt. Gary F. Beemster, Alpha Troop First Sergeant. “It teaches them how to talk on the radio, identify targets and work together in a confined space without choking each other out.”

The 11th ACR is home to Soldiers with many different military occupational specialties. So, for many Soldiers it was their first gunnery with a Bradley.

“We have a lot of new crews out here and this is their first gunnery,” said Beemster. “After 20 years of service, this is my first gunnery. I’ve never even been on a Bradley until I got to Fort Irwin.”

Despite their lack of experience and initial confusion, the new crews were able to learn the weapons system quickly and progress through the training. The range also provided the new crews with an opportunity to work together and build cohesion.

“Everyone has learned something here,” said Beemster. “The progression that they’ve made from getting out here and being really confused to now has been great. They’ve really pulled a (180). I’m really impressed with this range and how everyone has conducted themselves.”