AVONDALE, Ariz. (Army News Service, April 24, 2007) - Mark Martin and Regan Smith, co-drivers of the No. 01 U.S. Army car, are helping Soldiers learn the safe and proper way to set up the M2 machine gun.
The two taped an Army training video at the Phoenix International Raceway April 20. The TACOM Life Cycle Management Command at Rock Island, Ill., is preparing the video, which shows adjustments of headspace and timing for safe and effective operation of the M2.
The training video will be available to Soldiers worldwide, with public service announcements slated to soon air on the Armed Forces Radio and Television Service.
The video will show that if Soldiers take short cuts when setting the M2 headspace and timing, it could mean injury to them or damage to the weapon.
In their message to Soldiers, Mr. Martin and Mr. Smith stressed the importance of following proper procedures.
"In every race we depend on our crew to properly set up our car and keep us safe," said Mr. Martin. "Every time you install a barrel on your M2, proper adjustments to headspace and timing must be performed."
The video will also show pre checks and explain to Soldiers why it is important to perform the procedures each time before they fire the weapon.
"Safety and teamwork are a priority for us and for you. That's why your equipment has to be set up for safe and effective operation," said Mr. Smith.
Mr. Smith started go-kart racing at the age of four and competed in the World Karting Association as a 12-year-old. He began co-driving the 01 U.S. Army Chevrolet in 2007 with Mr. Martin as his coach.
Mr. Martin, whose first NASCAR cup start was in 1981, became the driver of the Army car this year and came within inches of winning the Daytona 500 last February.
"It's an honor to appear in this video which will help protect Soldiers," said Mr. Martin.
(Ms. Rebecca A. Montgomery writes for TACOM LCMC Rock Island Public Affairs.)
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