AUGUST 25, 2017, CAMP LEJEUNE, Nc. – The M327 live-fire training event was held to give the Marines an opportunity to increase their proficiency at providing timely and effective fire support missions.
“We’re conducting this live-fire range to maximize our readiness so we are able to complete any mission thrown our way whenever we’re deployed overseas,” said Lance Cpl. Juan Castaneda, a joint terminal attack controller with 1/10. “We need to be able to effectively employ our skills during support-by-fire missions.”
To obtain the highest level of expeditionary readiness, Marines often spend time outside of work improving their occupational specialty skills.
“We spend a better portion of our downtime taking classes on how to be more proficient at our military occupational specialty,” Castaneda said. “Whenever we aren’t taking classes or doing practical application of the skills we learn in class, we’re out here in the field doing live-fire training, which is the most effective training we get.”
This training not only provides the opportunity for the Marines to improve the skills necessary to be combat efficient, but also to work as one to complete any mission they are assigned.
“This type of training builds unit cohesion by allowing us all to train together while going through the various rigors of field exercises,” Castaneda said. “Being out here with your fellow Marines will always build cohesion, no matter what type of training you’re doing.”
Live-fire training events prepare Marines to face situations they may encounter in a combat environment.
“This training puts us in scenarios we might face while overseas,” Castaneda said. “We receive fire missions and we have to complete them in a timely, yet efficient manner and it’s usually fast paced which adds stress and only makes us better prepared for real-life situations.”
1/10 continues to train and prepare for an upcoming unit deployment program next year.
By Lance Cpl. Damarko Bones, II Marine Expeditionary Force