Field Artillery AIT: Inside the Firebase

This week Class 12-23 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 also had their first attempt at the Army Combat Physical Fitness Test. Next week Class 12-23 will begin hands-on training for ancillary equipment used in a Radar Section.

This week Class 12-23 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 12-23 trained on multiple generators. Soldiers became proficient in properly grounding, starting, applying powering, and shutting down each system without injury or damage to the generator or themselves. Soldiers learned the importance of the generator's capabilities, safety and the correct settings for each generator. Soldiers concluded the week with a generator hands-on exam to ensure all Soldiers were proficient in generator operations. Next week the Soldiers will begin their computer-based training on Radar software and operations

This week Class 12-23 received their first radar software experience using computer-based scenarios on one of the primary Radar systems, the AN/TPQ-53. 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 computer-based exam on the material instructed during the week. Next week the Soldiers will begin training on Radar equipment and tactical operations

This week Class 12-23 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-based training on another Radar software and its’ operations

This week Class 12-23 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 computer-based 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 12-23 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 12-23 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!

Class 12-23 applied everything they learned throughout their class during a 3-day culminating training event (CTE), and now, they are in their graduation week! Class 12-23 is conducting graduation rehearsals today in preparation for their graduation tomorrow. Picture depicts them reciting the Soldier’s Creed.