Mounted Combat Patrol Operations

This week's training has been more tactical operations. We have been conducting mounted combat patrol operations. This is largely what we will face in Afghanistan. This week also have been a challenging one for us physically, as most of us have the Kansas/Fort Riley Crud. We all have been sick with cold type symptoms.... So the physical demands of the training has taken a greater toll on our bodies physically. The two pictures below kinda shows how tired we have been after conducting some of our training and waiting on another team to complete the run on the range, so that we can conduct it with live rounds. For Mounted Combat Patrol Operations we conduct a dry-run with blank ammo, (basically to make sure we conduct it safely), then we conduct it with live ammo. The picture below is with SGM Elvington getting a rest where he could, (on the ground/rocks). You have to be tired to do this, I know that it was not comfortable.

Notice that it is at the end of April and MAJ Haselden is wrapped up like it is cold. Well it is Kansas and it is cold!!!! WOW....

The above picture shows MSG Tex Hughes relaxing "Tex Style" with a cigar, his aide bag close by, and listening to his MP3 player. He really knows how to make the best out of the environment. I have learned quite a lot from him... You have to find time to rest and make the best out of your situation.....

We also continued our training on TCP Ops (Traffic Control Point Operations). Part of this training is making sure that we can conduct and implement an effective Traffic Control Point at any location at any time. These operations are merely short term, but effective. This training must be rehearsed and planned. Fort Riley brings in many personnel to fill the role of the people of Afghanistan, so that we get the most realistic training possible. Below is a picture of me with one of the extras hired as an Afghan National Police. Our job is to mentor them in conducting these types of operation effectively, and this training greatly aided us in that.

Anything can happen during these type operations, you have to really be on guard and alert and then ready to react. These operations involve interacting with the local populous, thus needing an interpreter and being careful to not hurt innocent civilians during hostilities.... Trust me, we all are training well, to ensure that we conduct ourselves properly when the situation arise.... One never knows, but it is best to know that should the situation arise, you have the training to do it.... as well as the confidence...

Another integral part of our mission deals with mentoring, so we have had extensive training in mentoring and interacting with local Afghan leadership. The below picture is with MAJ Haselden and MSG Hughes acting as the US representative assisting an Afghan National Policeman on a trip to meet with a town's mullah and councilman.

Next week it is my turn along with SFC Walsh.... I hope that you all enjoy the pictures and information that is provided. I try to give you a true depiction of what we are actually doing... Until next week, be Eternally Blessed and know that God is still in Control.................