FORT SILL, Okla. -- Second Battalion, 4th Field Artillery, conducted an equipment deployment readiness exercise (EDRE) Nov. 18-21 to ensure all vehicles were in good running condition and to fix any issues.
The exercise consisted of convoys driving to Fort Sill training areas to allow vehicles to reach proper operating temperatures. In addition to the vehicle focus, the exercise also allowed the mechanics of 696th Forward Support Company to instruct the operators on useful tips and basic steps to aid in prolonging the life of vehicles and equipment.
The training exercise was divided into separate days for the different batteries of 2-4th FA to allow maximum focus and participation by mechanics and operators.
Each day a different battery would leave the 2-4th FA motor pool in two to three convoys and conduct full preventive maintenance checks (PMC) and services according to that vehicle's technical manual. While the operators were conducting PMCs and services, the mechanics performed technical inspections and assisted the operators. Upon completion, the more experienced mechanics would pull aside several operators around a particular piece of equipment and teach a maintenance class focusing on common operator errors and vehicle faults.
The classes were taught not only to the operators of these vehicles, but to newly assigned mechanics.
Pfc. Sevea Twyman, a recent AIT generator mechanic graduate, said he was happy to do this kind of exercise.
"This was my first time with an actual unit, and I really like doing this as it helps me learn through hands-on experience in a field environment. I also like going outside my job skill and learning the different mechanic skills while performing maintenance checks and services, and technical inspections," said Twyman.
The exercise also emphasized the importance of cohesion between the operator and mechanic. Stressing this were Soldiers like Sgt. William Hagg, a launcher mechanic within 696th FSC, and Cpl. Justin Kelsey, an experienced track mechanic, who led many of the classes instructing operators on how to better care for their equipment.
"It is good to be out here and work with the operators. Most of the time we work long hours working on these vehicles, however, by helping the operators learn valuable tips and tricks on their vehicles, it helps the longevity and reduces the late hours," said Kelsey. "These interactions help me better understand the strengths and weakness the operator has within his vehicle, and it allows the operator to better understand the type of things that we mechanics really focus on in making sure the vehicles run well."
Leaders within the batteries were pleased that the event tested the abilities of the rapid movement of vehicles to the training area.
Staff Sgt. Wesley Weaver, an operator from B Battery, 2-4th FA, said he was glad the exercise happened and hopes that it develops into a full deployment exercise of not only vehicles, but all equipment.
"I appreciate the mass participation of available equipment and personnel. When I was first told we were doing an EDRE I expected that we were going to load up our connexes and trailers and be fully combat-loaded when rolling out. I was pleased to work directly with the mechanics who work on my vehicles and learn from them. It allowed me to show a greater appreciation in the work they do, as well as pressed upon me the importance of having my Soldiers conduct thorough and proper checks of the equipment," he said.
The exercise revealed several issues which were quickly resolved and adjusted performances to standards, achieving the mission's goals, said Maj. Joel Heinzeroth, 2-4th FA Battalion executive officer.
"The end result was an exercise that achieved the intent of the old Chinese proverb, 'The more you sweat in training, the less you bleed in war,'" Heinzeroth said.
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