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So I am sitting here this morning telling my son, via FaceBook while he is at a range, how to make sure the MK-19 is loaded correctly so it doesn't jam. Do today's NCOs not know our weapon systems so they can train their Soldiers or what? They are deploying next year and this is kind of disconcerting.
UPDATE: My son qualified 9-10 for Sharp Shooter. Not bad for the first time. I asked why his NCOs didn't tell him about why the weapon malfunctions and using a ton LSAT (told him to use a lot of it). He said that his NCOs said it is easy just point and shoot. Sorry but to be good with it, it takes just a little more than point and shoot.
UPDATE: My son qualified 9-10 for Sharp Shooter. Not bad for the first time. I asked why his NCOs didn't tell him about why the weapon malfunctions and using a ton LSAT (told him to use a lot of it). He said that his NCOs said it is easy just point and shoot. Sorry but to be good with it, it takes just a little more than point and shoot.
Weapons
Training
NCOs
Edited 9 y ago
Posted 9 y ago
Responses: 21
I think when it comes to the lesser used weapon systems like the MK-19 (a great tool to have while deployed by the way), leadership could probably use and ask for a refresher course prior to taking troops to the range. I would go further and say that dependent on the unit, further, increasing training should be conducted all weapon systems including the M9 and M4 must be considered.
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I was an 11M and knew the Bradley inside and out, but I never saw a MK-19 until I reclassed into aviation. The second I saw a new toy I put myself on range safety and spent the day getting to know that awesome little creature. If you PCS to a new unit and they have something new to your brain housing group, get to know it. Find the SME and find out the top malfunctions with the platform and get behind the trigger. When the crapola hits the fan, you do NOT want to use the MK-19 as a club.
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SGM Steve Wettstein
SFC Mark Merino thank you for your reply. I am with you there Brother but maybe some don't feel that way nowadays.
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SFC Mark Merino
There is a clear difference between the NCO leaders and NCO stripe bearers. What can I do to help vs 'not my responsibility.'
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Skills that atrophy with time. Like anything, if you don't use it, you lose it. Some weapons like the M16/M4 are permanently ingrained, while others were handled less or infrequently.
I was in during the transition from the M60 to the M240G. During that time, I'm willing to bet I could find NCO+ who had never touched a M240G, and at the same time we had junior troops who getting minimal time on the M60 at SOI.
When I got to Quantico, I can say with certainty I touched my weapon twice, during qualification weeks. I didn't even have one permanently assigned to me. As LTC Jason Strickland said, a lot of it's a matter of assignment and station.
I was in during the transition from the M60 to the M240G. During that time, I'm willing to bet I could find NCO+ who had never touched a M240G, and at the same time we had junior troops who getting minimal time on the M60 at SOI.
When I got to Quantico, I can say with certainty I touched my weapon twice, during qualification weeks. I didn't even have one permanently assigned to me. As LTC Jason Strickland said, a lot of it's a matter of assignment and station.
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