3CAB conducts ODW training with Marines

Photo and Story by 1st Lt. Nicholas Tyler,

4-3 AHB, 3rd CAB UPAR

Marine Maj. Gen. David J. Furness, Commanding General of the 2nd Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, visited 4th Battalion, 3rd Aviation Attack Helicopter Battalion to thank them for the support provided during Operation Dogs of War, Aug. 10, on Hunter Army Airfield.

Part of the intent of the ODOW between the 2nd Marine Division and the 3rd CAB, was to achieve company collective training and the brigade-sized effort to support a regimental-sized Marine air assault.

During Furness' speech, he expressed his wishes to continue the relationship between both divisions.

"This exercise was a great opportunity for the company to accomplish multiple goals in a short period of time," said Capt. Frank Candelmo, commander of Company A, 4-3 AHB, 3rd CAB. "The company was able to obtain a T (trained) in our core competency of air assault operations, exercise battalion mission command and work with unfamiliar ground forces, which will set the conditions for success for our upcoming European rotation, Operation Atlantic Resolve."

The planners held several meetings to develop effective routes, sequencing, sustainment and overall understanding of the commander's intent, said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Benjamin Maglin. This joint planning effort enabled crews to execute the complex mission flawlessly. The consistent communication and planning by all parties ensured the 3rd CAB's assets could successfully accomplish ODW.

Elements of Co. E, 4-3 Avn. departed Hunter Army Airfield in a convoy to Camp Lejeune, NC, with Co. A, 4-3 AHB aircraft departing shortly after.

The convoy consisted of 25 Soldiers and 11 vehicles, travelling over 350 miles. Immediately after arriving, the company set up the mobile forward arming and refueling point, capable of simultaneously fueling and rearming five UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters.

The Spiders' five Black Hawks made multiple flights to facilitate the regimental-sized assault, transporting over 550 personnel and accumulated 125 flight hours, all while fostering relationships with 1-6 Marines and the 2nd Marine Division.

Co. A and elements of Co. E successfully supported the Marine regimental assault and executed company, platoon, and small unit insertions during the day and night.