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Kneeling on line, Spc. John Mcginnis survyes the target area preparing for the next shot interation. Photo by Pfc. Coltin Heller
FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. - When you think of field artillery, you think rockets, cannons and other earth shaking weapons. Most field artillery units are no exception to the rule, however, there is a twist.
Wednesday, Soldiers from 3/197 field artillery shifted the focus of their training from their big guns to other weapons, such as the M-16A2 and the M203 40mm grenade launcher used by many other Soldiers.
"This isn't normal training for us," said Sgt. William Chaussee a fire direction control chief from B Battery 3/197. "As a field artillery unit we do more training with the weapons we use in the field."
The Soldiers were conducting reflexive fire drills, and familiarizing themselves with the weapons they were training on. Starting at five meters the Soldiers squared off on multicolored pop-up targets with their weapons in the low ready state. As the target came up the Soldiers raised their weapons, took aim, fired twice, then lowered their weapons. After several rounds, the distance increased and the drill repeated.
"Since we don't get to fire the other weapon systems very often, this is great training for us," said cannon crew member Pfc. Jeffery Gagnon.
The Soldiers were also taught the correct stance when conducting reflexive fire. "It's better to be square on your target, that way if you get hit, you have a better chance of being hit in one of your plates. You can also more readily move if you are facing your target," said Chaussee. "As the battlefield becomes more urban, we could possibly find ourselves being deployed as something other than field artillery. This training is excellent as it helps us be more adaptable."
Although the 3/197 has been deployed once already, their next deployment is a long way off. "You hear rumors about when your going to be deployed. We are always preparing to be deployed. Whether it be to Afghanistan or Iraq, we're prepared," said Chaussee.
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS:
Spc. Dale Williams fires at the yellow painted target attempting to knock it down. Photo by Pfc. Coltin Heller
All Soldiers are roded on or off any range to ensure the safety of all the Soldiers. Photo by Pfc. Coltin Heller
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