FORT STEWART, Ga. - With the upcoming rotation to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, Calif., the 396th Transportation Company, 87th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Brigade, Third Infantry Division, has been involved in a number of training events.

Recently the company went through the Counter Improvised Explosive Device training to be able to properly prepare and mitigate the threats of IED's. This training allows a unit to move a convoy and through a lane where IED simulations and opposing forces will attack.

The 396th TC did four different convoys on their day of training, assigning four different convoy commanders to plan, convey and execute their own mission through the lane. During the execution phase of the convoy, evaluators rode along with the convoy commanders to evaluate their performance on the road.

"The training really helped out the gunner's situation awareness and stressed the importance of security," said Sgt. Tommy Jeffery, assigned to the 396th TC.

As the officer in charge of the training, 2nd Lt. Ross Powers set the company up for success out by overseeing and planning each phase of the training, helping them to see their weaknesses and correcting mistakes.

At the National Training Center, the 396th TC will support the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, Third Infantry Division by running logistical missions and convoy security operations.

"I am ready to get the most realistic training possible to gear up for our deployment to Afghanistan," said Staff Sgt. DeWayne Kelly, also assigned to the 396th TC. "The training on gun trucks will be a different experience than what 396th is used to, but a challenge the company is willing to take on."

"It's good for the Soldiers to get a variety of training and learn all aspects of a convoy," added Staff Sgt. Matthew Towner. "Logistics is only a small part of what a convoy withholds."

Following NTC, the 396th will continue training by going through multiple ranges and live fires.