Author Archives: John Buol

SFC Brad Griffith: Training during COVID-19

by John Buol

Training during COVID-19
by Sgt. 1st Class Brad Griffith

As we move deeper into quarantine and further away from normal, there is a tremendous opportunity for growth and learning. We could spend this time to “Netflix and chill,” or we could look for ways to make ourselves more capable.

All Army Reserve Battle Assemblies have canceled for March and April. So much has changed in how we teach, train, and view basic Soldier skills that this is a perfect time for you to catch up on any the changes you may have missed. Below you will find a few ideas on how to come back from the break sharper than ever.
The ARMU Resources site is packed with content to stay sharp while you’re shut in. Spend some time getting smart on the new Individual Weapon Qualification (IWQ) that takes effect on 01 OCT 2020 or becoming more familiar with current doctrinal Preliminary Marksmanship Instruction and Evaluation (PMI&E). Still preaching Steady Position, Aiming, Breathing, and Trigger Squeeze, or SPORTS? You need to visit ARMU Resources ASAP!
https://www.usar.army.mil/Commands/Functional/ARMU/Resources/

The Army Reserve Marksman Newsletter also has helpful articles:
https://www.usar.army.mil/Commands/Functional/ARMU/Resources/ARMnews/

This is also a good time to plan a Postal Match:
https://www.usar.army.mil/Commands/Functional/ARMU/Resources/PostalMatch/
The transition from the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) to the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) has been one of the highest training priorities across the Army for over a year. The ACFT resources site has all the information you need to know about the test and tons of resources to stay fit while stuck at home. Come back ready to crush the test by visiting the ACFT resources site. The last day to take an APFT for record was 15 March 2020. So if you’re not ready for the ACFT, it’s time to hit up the ACFT resources site.
https://www.army.mil/acft/

Local Unit Readiness Creates All Army Success

by John Buol

#RetentionViaReadiness #PostalMatch #LetsGoShooting #RoadtoAwesome #KeepPounding #AmericasArmyReserve #USArmyReserve #WeaponsMaster

Local events that can be held at every Army Reserve unit in conjunction with Battle Assembly schedules are an enabler that increase readiness and improve retention.

Fort Benning, Ga.
Continue reading →

Local Competition Heightens Soldier Readiness, Retention

by John Buol

#RetentionViaReadiness #PostalMatch #LetsGoShooting #RoadtoAwesome #KeepPounding #AmericasArmyReserve #USArmyReserve #WeaponsMaster

Army Reserve Soldiers from 3-335th TSBn (85th Reserve Support Command) started an enhanced unit-level training program that utilizes participation in local competitions to build skills beyond Army qualification standards. The Southport Gun Club conducted an Open Sectional Indoor Pistol Championship in Kenosha, Wisconsin open to the public and these Soldiers took advantage.

“Competitions like this embody the concept of promoting excellence at all levels,” said Cmd. Sgt. Maj. Matthew Fall. “I would like to see continued unit participation in these events.” This Open Sectional event coincided with the unit’s scheduled Battle Assembly, allowing Soldiers to participate in the evening after drill.

Unit leadership is using a Retention Via Readiness approach with a series of events throughout the fiscal year, using the stress of match conditions as a training tool and to prepare for the 2020 All Army Small Arms Championship. “I thought it was great shooting in the competition,” said Master Sgt. Cody Brunet. “It’s such a perishable skill, and it is amazing how adding a little stress with timed shooting can change everything.”

While team members had been given guidance on drills and techniques, team captain Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Rosendorn understood the benefit of exposing the team to the stress of shooting under actual match conditions. Moreover, the difficulty of the event’s particular shooting discipline was an excellent means of pushing individuals and moving them out of their comfort zones. “I was looking for a way to challenge our team members and was pleased with the level of enthusiasm among them,” said Sgt. 1st Class Rosendorn. “Additionally, I was thrilled with the hospitality of both the Southport Gun Club and the civilian competitors there that evening.”

After completing normal duties, these Soldiers traveled on their own to the event. The Southport Gun Club 2020 NRA Open Sectional Indoor .22LR Championship is part of a series of competitions held around the country and open to the public, with the results collected and posted to determine the overall national champion. The match is a 90 round Precision Pistol (Bullseye) match, shot entirely one-handed at scaled targets 50 feet away. “It was a humbling but fun experience,” Maj. David Zizkovsky. “You think that you are a pretty good shot, and then you have to try it one handed.”

https://www.usar.army.mil/News/Article/2067986/local-competition-heightens-soldier-readiness-retention/