NEW ORLEANS — More than 40 Soldiers with the Louisiana Army National Guard's 1021st Engineer Vertical Construction Company are conducting pre-mobilization training at the Louisiana National Guard Training Center Pineville.
The two-week training focuses on sharpening basic warrior skills, preparing the troops for a 9-month deployment to multiple countries in the Central Command area of responsibility. The unit’s primary objective overseas will be to provide construction engineering expertise to work on critical infrastructure.
“I am immensely proud of the work that our Soldiers have put in to prepare for their mission and am confident that they will exceed expectations while mobilized,” said Capt. Emily Anthony, commander of the 1021st EVCC. “I know they will represent our unit, the 205th Engineer Battalion and the entire state with pride.”
The LANG conducts this type of training for units to address and resolve issues before moving to their mobilization site or forward deployment location.
“Our Soldiers are highly motivated,” said 1st Sgt. Kevin Steele. “They are excited about the opportunities and growth in knowledge that this deployment will bring.”
The Soldiers spend long days honing their skills with the equipment they will use while deployed, including basic construction tools and heavier machinery such as bulldozers and plate compactors.
“Morale is high,” said Steele. “The Soldiers are focusing on excelling and becoming more proficient with their skill set.”
During the training, Soldiers of the 1021st EVCC learn how to stay healthy during deployments and work through Tactical Combat Casualty Care and the Combat Lifesaver Course, which teaches battlefield medical procedures.
The team also gathers in classrooms for training on resiliency, legal considerations, sexual harassment and assault prevention.
This will be the first deployment for the 1021st since 2013. Soldiers will support the Inherent Resolve, Freedom Sentinel and Spartan Shield operations.
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