MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. (April 11, 2013) — Thirteen combat engineers with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 bolstered their mobility skills in the Combat Convoy Simulator at Camp Lejeune Monday as part of their annual training.
Although combat engineers are primarily known for their construction and demolitions roles, the job entails much more, said Sgt. Hugh T. Farr, a squad leader with MWSS-271’s combat engineers.
“It is important for us to know how to conduct mobility operations,” he said. “Anything could happen. We go on convoys frequently and we need to know vital skill sets so we can do our jobs to the best of our abilities.”
During training, the engineers brushed up on their route clearing skills, alternating roles from a driver operating a Humvee and communicating with the combat operations center and other vehicles in the convoy to a gunner operating weapons systems from the turret.
Farr evaluated his Marines and gave them feedback on their performances.
“I learned a lot of valuable things today, like how to call in properly over a radio and operate an MK-19 grenade launcher,” said Lance Cpl. Amadu Kanu, a combat engineer with MWSS-271. “But I also learned the importance of unit cohesion. In everyday situations, we need to be able to effectively communicate with each other so we can bring everyone home safely.”
Farr stressed the importance of virtual training tools like the Combat Convoy Simulator to his unit and others throughout the Marine Corps.
“With the Marine Corps downsizing, we need to make the most of our resources,” he said. “This simulator helps us save some of our resources like the diesel we use to fuel the Humvees.”
Farr said the Marines exceeded his expectations and he looks forward to seeing their skills progress.