June 11, 2015 --
Forty five Marines from Company A, Marine Barracks
Washington, D.C., conducted an M203 grenade launcher qualification course and
M67 fragmentation grenade and AT-4 rocket launcher battle drills at range 8
Alpha, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., June 10, 2015.
The objective of this training was to instruct the Marines
in the proper implementation of the weapon systems, said Capt. Mark Batey,
executive officer, A Co., Marine Barracks Washington, D.C. “The main focus of
the range was to properly employ high explosives as a squad and the right way
to use those assets as an infantry squad.”
The first iteration of the day was the correct employment of
the fragmentation grenade. In teams of two, Marines advanced to separate grenade
pits. After taking their positions, the pair observed and identified the
target, shouted “grenade out” and threw the grenade; immediately taking cover
in the prone position.
The second training event of the day was an M203
familiarization course. The training
consisted of a pre-qualification and a qualification course. For both courses the
Marines went up to the firing line and shot 15 rounds: five standing, five
kneeling, and five in the prone positions. For the pre-qualification course the
Marines shot training rounds, affectionately called “cheeto-puffs” because when
they hit the target they release an orange puff. During the qualification course
of fire the Marines shot high explosive rounds.
The last training exercise was an AT-4 battle drill. The
Marines advanced in a fire team formation to the firing line. The team leader
carrying the weapon, prepped the weapon and the area, identified the target and
employed the rocket.
For many of these Marines this was the first time employing
these weapon systems while stationed at the Barracks.
This basic infantry training will better prepare me for the
operating forces, said Lance Cpl. Joseph Pritchard, Marine Corps Color Guard, A
Co. It was good to get hands on with the weapons.
This evolution of training is part of a larger training
package for A Co. Marines transferring to infantry battalions throughout the
Marine Corps within the next year. This fall these Marines are scheduled to
attend a squad team leaders course to help refine their infantry skills.
Marines of A Co. successfully completed the training package
and will continue preparing for team leaders course focusing on offensive and
defensive operations, patrol base operations and military operations in urban
terrain.
It was exciting to do this training, because we spend a lot
of time practicing ceremonial drill, said Cpl. David Worrell, marcher, 1st
platoon, A Co. It gives us better familiarization with the weapons, and it also
builds confidence before we go to the fleet.