Marine Corps Unit Prepares for Afghanistan Deployment with Joint Exercise at Yuma Proving Ground

Strategic Insights -

Approximately 220 Marines from Company C, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, participated in a company-sized exercise at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground on October 27, 2009. The exercise aimed to prepare the unit for their upcoming deployment to Afghanistan by simulating a real-world scenario where they would need to use combined arms to destroy an enemy force. The Marines moved into a 800-by-800 meter area and attacked the enemy in a "V" formation, with each platoon playing a crucial role in the operation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The exercise involved approximately 220 Marines from Company C, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, who participated in a company-sized exercise at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground on October 27, 2009.
  • The objective of the exercise was to destroy a simulated enemy force of 25-30 insurgents using combined arms, including rifles, machine guns, mortars, and TOW missiles.
  • The exercise tested the unit's ability to operate in harsh terrain and make decisions based on combined-arms solutions, which is a critical skill for deployment to Afghanistan.
  • The battalion is scheduled to depart Yuma on November 8, 2009, to return to Camp Lejeune and deploy to Afghanistan in the spring of 2010.
  • The exercise proved valuable in preparing the battalion for the rugged terrain of Afghanistan, where they will face similar challenges and obstacles.
  • The logistical and operational complications encountered during the exercise gave the Marines insight into the enemy's tactics and gave them respect for the harsh conditions they will face in Afghanistan.

Statistics:

  • 220 Marines participated in the exercise.
  • The exercise took place in a 800-by-800 meter area at the U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground.
  • The simulated enemy force consisted of 25-30 insurgents.
  • The battalion is scheduled to depart Yuma on November 8, 2009, and deploy to Afghanistan in the spring of 2010.

Sources:

  • U.S. Marine Corps release by Cpl. Pete Zrioka, Marine Corps Air Station Yuma
  • Statement by Capt. Nathan Chandler, Company Commander, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment
  • Statement by 1st Lt. Joshua Hartley, Co. A Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment
  • Statement by 1st Lt. Robert Paulus, Co. C Executive Officer, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment
  • Statement by Capt. Robert Barnhart, Battalion Operations Officer, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment