Michigan National Guard exercises proficiency during sub-zero cold weather training

CAMP GRAYLING, Mich. - Michigan Army National Guard Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 119th Field Artillery Regiment, conducted cold weather training at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, Feb. 27, 2015. The training, consisting of preparing and firing rounds from an M777A2 howitzer in sub-zero temperatures, was the final step in the 119th's Artillery Skills Proficiency Tasks (ASPT) training requirement.

"This is the second year in a row that we've operated in below-zero temperatures," said Maj. Obi B. Yordy, executive officer of the 1st Battalion. "Everything worked great, morale was high and we accomplished all of our training objectives."

The training exercise served additional purpose, providing Soldiers an opportunity to practice wear of extreme cold weather gear including trousers, jackets, boots, gloves and head covers. Wearing the gear while operating in sub-zero temperatures assists in increasing Soldiers' confidence in their equipment from a gear and weapon standpoint.

The 119th FA recently began training in winter weather again since the drawdown of troops in Iraq. In addition, in 2012, Maj. Gen. Gregory J. Vadnais, the adjutant general of the Michigan National Guard, put out a directive that Michigan National Guard Soldiers train for preparedness in all seasons of weather.

According to Yordy, this essential training increases his Soldiers' efficiency in all operating conditions.

"It's important to help prepare, to answer the nation's call if needed, and to increase our proactive readiness," Yordy said.