Soldiers of Alpha Company 1st Battalion, 182nd Infantry Regiment, Rhode Island Army National Guard epitomized the moniker of “Attack Company” as they aggressively attacked their challenging training schedule in the rugged environment and extreme heat at Camp Santiago Joint Training Center, Puerto Rico, November 12, 2019 through November 16, 2019.
The training consisted of M4 and machine-gun qualifications during the day as well as night-fire qualifications with night vision goggles. The mortar section also conducted live-fire exercises. The Soldiers honed their skills by engaging targets while moving from cover to cover during “move and shoot” drills. The culmination of the training included MOUT (military operations in urban terrain), techniques for movement, room clearing target identification and engagement.
Pfc David Connors, an infantryman with A Co, 1/182nd said “the training was great, I learned about operating in a wide variety of challenging environments in a short amount of time.”
Camp Santiago Joint Training Center is a military training installation controlled by the Puerto Rico National Guard Colonel Israel Romero, the Garrison Commander of Camp Santiago J.T.C. said that they are investing $400 Million Dollars toward the construction of new buildings, barracks and improvement of the infrastructure to make them the “Partner of Choice” for government agencies to conduct training exercises.
Captain Timothy O’Leary, A Co, 1/182nd Company Commander said that the unit strives to complete weapons qualification early in the fiscal year, so they can build upon that training as the year progresses. In the past, Fort Devens ranges had been impacted by inclement weather. Training at Camp Santiago negated that risk, and by incorporating Air National Guard military transport, the cost was comparable to training at Fort Devens.
Attack Company continues their tradition; aggressive, physically fit, disciplined and well-trained. Always prepared for rapid deployment when needed. “I AM THE INFANTRY! FOLLOW ME!”