Stryker Brigade News

For three days, the Blackhawks focused on marksmanship, combat physical training, casualty evacuations and buddy team movement/battle drills.

Blackhawk platoons began a quick reaction force scenario April 12 that required Soldiers to run from the company area to Bryant Army Airfield 1.2 miles away carrying a real world combat load that included ammunition, weapons, radios, combat helmet, assault pack and body armor with ballistic plates. They then clambered aboard a waiting Alaska Army National Guard UH-60 Blackhawk.

The helicopters worked their way deep into Arctic Valley on the 20-minute flight first at 800 feet, then seemingly dropping to near treetop height. Soldiers then moved out on a tactical foot march to the known-distance range.

“People will get sick, go on leave, and vehicles will go down for a few hours,” said 1st Sgt. Jeffrey Zarnoth. “If the mission comes during those two hours, these Soldiers are prepared to cross load, ride, walk or air assault out of the forward operating base.”

Soldiers and leadership fused standard day and night rifle qualification with an eight-point buddy team weapon assault course that focused on street movement, weapons accuracy, and physical stamina.

Fort Richardson simulated an urban marketplace for Blackhawk helicopters attacks.

A forward observer’s identified targets were based on insurgent models and were coordinated with supporting aircraft, said 4th Bn., 23rd Inf. fire support officer, Kenneth Slover.

“For many, this was their first coordinated encounter with any air asset. The lessons we learn from units deployed and rehearsed at home station will definitely set us up for success during combat operations.” Slover said.

The evolving activity allowed the forward observer to think on his feet in real time and to prepare action mission data on short notice, Slover said.

At the landing zone, Soldiers received instruction from National Guard flight crews on pickup zone planning and on rigging and how to use the helicopter’s hoist. This was a first for many as Soldiers were hoisted from a nearby tree line onto the hovering UH-60s.

When asked about training without their Strykers, Velotta said, “We use the Stryker to get us to the fight. Eventually the ramp drops, and we execute what this battalion does best: fight on foot in all terrain – snow, desert or urban jungle – and win.”