FORT BRAGG, N.C. -- In keeping with readiness, February's theme for Fort Bragg Garrison encompasses combat training.
The state-of-the-art Virtual Training Center in the Training Support Center under the Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization, and Security is just one of the various training areas aiding in combat readiness.
"Virtual training supplements the real-world training the 82nd Airborne Division does on a daily basis," said Maj. Russell Gordon, 2nd BCT, 82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs officer.
Fort Bragg paratroopers from 2nd BCT, 82nd Airborne Division, took part in close-quarter combat training at Fort Bragg's VTC on Thursday, Feb. 20.
The VTC, affectionately referred to as "Machine Gun University" by some service members, keeps combat training skills sharp.
"Everything we do is in progression to reach the ultimate goal of proficiency," Gordon said. "Our 'Machine Gun University' training begins with classroom instruction, then virtual training, and culminating in a couple of weeks with live hands-on training at our brigade exercise, Falcon Storm."
During the 3-day training, the troopers will have hands-on experience with multiple weapon systems, including the following: M249 light machine gun, M240 machine gun, Javelin anti-tank missile, Carl Gustaf recoilless rifle, M2 .50 caliber machine gun and the MK19 belt-fed grenade launcher.
Along with virtual training, the TSC provides a multitude of training aids, devices, simulators, and simulations, otherwise known as TADSS, within Fort Bragg. One of the training aids include a real-life mannequin with physical injuries to replicate breathing, movement, and heavy bleeding.
"It's called the TC3X, which stands for Traumatic Combat Casualty Care," said Keith Carr, Training Support officer at the TSC. "It is exportable; you can move it around for real-life scenarios."
The TSC provides TADSS equipment, training, and training support to all active Army, National Guard, Reserve components, and ROTC units within the Army Regulation 350-38 area of operation.
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