Soto Cano Air Base, HONDURAS (August 25, 2010) - U.S. Army South Soldiers belonging to the 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment, stationed in Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras, provided basic weapons training to members of the Honduran army Aug. 25.
The training consisted of primary marksmanship instruction and weapons familiarization on the M2 and M249 weapon systems. The Army South Soldiers instructed and coached the 20 Honduran soldiers on maintenance, assembly and disassembly, and firing techniques.
The trainers consisted of a former infantry heavy weapons expert, a unit armorer, and eight bilingual Soldiers who assisted by translating the lessons. The training took place at the Zambrano Artillery Range home of the Honduran 1st Field Artillery Battalion.
"The Honduran commander and deputy commander at the artillery school extend the courtesy to allow us to use their range for our training needs," said Cpt. Thomas G. Pierce, 1st Battalion 228th Aviation Regiment operations officer. "In return we offer our knowledge and expertise to Honduran soldiers regarding our weapon systems."
Joint training of this type helps increase the level of cooperation and interoperability that exists between the two armies, two traits critical to the future security of region.
"Conducting this style of training builds good relations with our Host Nation partners aiding our mission in the region," said Pierce. "We appreciate the hospitality the Honduran army has shown the 228 in allowing us to utilize their range and facilities for our training requirements."
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