Numerous national companies showcased their products to 3rd Infantry Division Soldiers and Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield Department of Defense civilians during a technology expo, Oct. 20 on Fort Stewart The 3rd Infantry Division is well on its way to becoming the most modernized division in the United States Army, and expos like this help leaders see and touch newly-fielded technology that might make its way into the hands of their Soldiers in the future.
“This shows us the potential future of the Army,” said Col. Manny Ramirez, Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield garrison commander. “What was showcased to us were future communications systems, future computer systems, and future ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) systems. All of the products displayed were very, very interesting and it's really good to see the direction we are striving toward as a modern Army.”
During the event, leaders and Soldiers made their way from vendor to vendor to discuss the cutting-edge technology that was present. Modernization is a top priority across the Army, and it is important for Soldiers and leaders at all levels understand how technology is evolving if they hope to stay relevant on a modern battlefield.
After the conclusion of the event, several Soldiers were able to discuss what they learned from the event and how the products displayed might benefit day-to-day operations within their unit.
“There have been some great vendors that are trying to solve some of the long-term problems that the Army or DoD faces,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Wiber Carmona, a Soldier assigned to the 14th Field Hospital, 3rd Division Sustainment Brigade, 3rd ID. For Carmona, technology related to communications and data analysis was particularly interesting.
“Being able to expand data communications will not only help my unit, but the 3rd ID and the Army,” Carmona said. “This information is actually empowering the Soldiers to be force multipliers. It’s now easier for a Soldier to learn a job and get motivated because now they have access to state-of-the-art technology.”
Senior leaders were given the opportunity to view the products in a private setting before the main event started. Leaders were able to talk one-on-one with vendors about equipment and technology developments happening now.
“This is important because it shows us what we could potentially use to solve problems that involve the tactical environment and the command post environment,” Ramirez said. “This allows us to seek potentially innovative solutions for some of the problems we face. As the division undergoes its own modernization process, we are blessed with this opportunity to inform the Army.”
As 3rd ID continues to modernize, embracing and utilizing new technology will help ensure its Soldiers are prepared for whatever threats they might face on the modern battlefield.
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