13R Fire Finder Radar Operator
Alpha Battery, 1st Battalion 78th Field Artillery
13R Class 03-23
This week Class 03-23 conducted physical training, learned basic radio operations, and will be introduced to all the Field Artillery Radar Systems they will be using in the force. Next week Class 03-23 will begin training on Map Reading and Land Navigation.
This week Class 03-23 focused on how to utilize a military map for Radar Operations. Soldiers learned the necessary skills to read a military map, identify terrain features and how to use a protractor to find themselves in a specific location if they are lost. Soldiers als o had their first attempt at the Army Combat Physical Fitness Test. Next week Class 0323 will begin handson training for ancillary equipment used in a Radar Section.
This week Class 03-23 conducted hands-on exercises with the Aiming Circle, Defense Advanced GPS Receiver (DAGR) and an Omni-Directional Antenna used for communications. The Soldiers conducted Practical Exercises (P.E) on how to properly construct an antenna and establish communication with other systems. Next week the Soldiers are going to learn how to operate several generators that are used on Radar Systems.
This week Class 03-23 conducted tactical emplacement of the AN/TPQ-53 Radar system. This training exercised the ability to setup the Radar system for operational use. At the end of the week, Soldiers were evaluated and timed on their ability to perform 1 of 2 High Physical Demands Test (HPDT) using the Radar system. Next week the Soldiers will continue their computer a nother Radar software and its’ operations.
This week Class 03-23 continued computer module testing on their secondary Radar system, the AN/TPQ-50. Soldiers experienced computer based scenarios that simulated real-world situations and allowed Soldiers to manipulate the software to perform their duties as Radar Operators. This training was concluded with a computerbased exam on the Radar System. Next week the Soldiers will continue their hands-on training for the AN/TPQ-50 Radar System and tactical operations.
This week Class 03-23 performed tactical emplacement of the AN/TPQ-50 Radar System. This training exercised the ability to setup the Radar system, apply power and setup an antenna for operations in two different configurations. The Soldiers also completed a High Physical Demands Test that was timed and entailed moving simulated casualties 25 meters, seeking cover and the movement of supplies. Next week the Soldiers will be in the field for their 72 hours Culminating Training Event (CTE).
This week Class 03-23 applied everything they have learned throughout their class during a 3-day culminating training event (CTE). This training exercise allowed Soldiers to demonstrate their expertise by performing 13R Radar specialist tasks in an operational environment. These tasks are known as Artillery Skills Proficiency Tests (ASPTs). All the Soldiers showcased their critical thinking abilities as a team as they accomplished many goals and tasks throughout the 3-day CTE. Only one week left and then it’s Graduation week!
