Center ensures that deploying Soldiers are ready to go

By Maj. Jacob BrownOctober 3, 2022

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FORT HOOD, Texas - First Army's 120th Infantry Brigade's Mobilization and Demobilization Operations Center (MDOC) is the one-stop-shop for Army Reserve and Army National Guard units deploying in support of Geographic Combatant Commander requirements. The 2-338th Training Support Battalion serves as the MDOC under the 120th Infantry Brigade, spearheading mobilization and demobilization operations of over 150 units annually.

As the lead Fort Hood Mobilization Force Generation Installation (MFGI) Brigade, the 120th is a Multi-Functional Training Brigade which comprises, six Active Component Battalions, three mobilized Reserve Component Battalions, and five Troop Providing Unit (TPU) Reserve Battalions. The MDOC serves as the Brigade center of gravity for operations and communication, synchronizing and de-conflicting support efforts across the mobilization and demobilization enterprise. From coordinating exercise facilities with AC Observer Coach/Trainers (OC/T) to synchronizing training ranges with the Brigade’s Green Training Team, to garrison partner support, personnel reception and onward movement, the MDOC is the hub of Brigade mobilization operations in a hub and spoke framework.

During past mobilizations, two separate TSBNs were responsible for separate and distinct Mobilization and Demobilization efforts; however, in 2021 the 2-338th TSBN was charged with consolidating the two missions under the umbrella of one organization. Combining the two missions sets to form a holistic Mobilization & Demobilization Operations Center, the 2-338th's mission is to coordinate with MFGI partners, including the Mobilization Support Brigade (MSB), NFH Site Support, the Deployment Readiness Center (DRC), 166th AV BDE, and 1A DIV West to ensure RFP-D units receive full support throughout their MOB/DEMOB operations. The MDOC itself now consists of four key components with each fulfilling a specific mission subset: the MOB Cell, Validation Cell, DEMOB Cell, and Individual Ops Cell.

The MOB Cell conducts 24/7 operations, planning, coordinating, synchronizing, and de-conflicting training resources to support the validation of all RFP-D units. This includes working alongside OC/T TSBNs to welcome arriving units, set expectations, establish policies and procedures, and conduct daily operations. This also involves chairing weekly Training Resource Meetings during which the MDOC synchronizes efforts with OC/Ts, RFP-D units, and the Green Team to ensure smooth execution of training events. Additionally, the MOB Cell maintains accountability of every mobilizing and demobilizing unit and individual on NFH while acting as a customer support center. The MOB Cell is the RFP-D unit's 24/7 help desk and is designed to facilitate mission requirements and assist units in mitigating risk to ensure the unit successfully and safely validates for its deployed mission.

Upon a unit's Mobilization Station Arrival Date (MSAD), the Validation Cell works with both the RFP-D unit, as well as their assigned AC OC/Ts, to assist and verify that the unit has completed all required training in accordance with Forces Command Pre-Deployment Training Guidance (FORSCOM PDTG) and Combatant Commander (CCDR) Training Requirements. The Validation Cell works with RFP-D units and their corresponding OC/T TSBN to ensure pre-MOB and post-MOB training reflects accurately in the Unit Status Tracker (UST) and that mobilizing units are on glide path to meet all Mission Essential Task List (METL) requirements in order to recommend Validation through the MFGI commander. The Validation Cell also works with OC/Ts throughout the entirety of their respective RFP-D unit’s Pre-MOB operations to ensure all parties have the most current training requirements and UST versions to maximize preparedness prior to arrival.

The DEMOB Cell provides command and control of demobilizing units throughout the DEMOB process. This includes ensuring every Soldier conducting the 14-day Requirements Based Demobilization Process (RBDP) is effectively assessed, provided continuity of care, informed of entitlements and benefits, and is fully prepared for the transition from active duty or follow-on medical or administrative activities. The DEMOB Cell works closely with demobilizing units, OC/T TSBNs, and other MFGI partners to ensure Soldiers experience a smooth transition to their next assignment. The OC/T TSBN who trained and validated mobilizing units are the same TSBNs that greet units upon their return. The DEMOB cell plays a crucial part in maintaining and supporting that OC/T and RFP-D relationship during the deployment. While the MOB and DEMOB Cells specialize in supporting unit-sized elements, the Individual Ops Cell focuses on Soldiers conducting the MOB/DEMOB process as individuals. The DEMOB cell guides these Soldiers through all MOB/DEMOB requirements in the event the remainder of their unit does not accompany them.

Though combining the mobilization and demobilization mission sets initially presented challenges in terms of personnel, materiel and roles and responsibilities, the consolidation of the two missions into the holistic Mobilization and Demobilization Operations Center ultimately proved worthwhile. By consolidating the two mission sets into a holistic MDOC, the 2-338th TSBN solidified the MDOC as the hub of the Brigade’s hub and spoke organization, increasing both efficiency and effectiveness of mobilization, validation, and demobilization operations while simultaneously streamlining communication and support initiatives between RFP-D units and OC/Ts and across the North Fort Hood MFGI enterprise.