FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, PA – Soldiers of the Pennsylvania National Guard honed their expertise in heavy weaponry during a comprehensive Crew Served Weapons Course held at Fort Indiantown Gap from January 19th to February 2nd.
The intensive two-week program, orchestrated by the Pennsylvania National Guard’s Individual Training Branch and Marksmanship Training Unit, equipped 28 soldiers, primarily noncommissioned officers alongside officers and junior enlisted personnel, with critical skills in crew served weapons systems. The curriculum was meticulously designed to cover the full spectrum of unit marksmanship training, encompassing planning, execution, and range operations, alongside in-depth instruction on machine gun theory and operational competencies. A key component of the course was hands-on testing and live fire exercises utilizing the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, the M240B General Purpose Machine Gun, the M2A1 .50 Caliber Machine Gun, and the Mk19 Automatic Grenade Launcher.
“Modern operational environments and deployment missions for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard necessitate proficient subject matter experts in crew served weapons, whether in fixed emplacements or mounted on vehicles,” stated Sgt. 1st Class Rani Doucette, the Individual Training Branch noncommissioned officer-in-charge and lead instructor for the course. “This training initiative provides leaders at every level with a profound understanding of these weapon systems, enabling them to return to their units and effectively train their soldiers to the highest standards.”
The Crew Served Weapons Course, alongside its counterpart, the Individual Weapons Course, operates on a train-the-trainer model. Graduates are expected to return to their units as subject matter experts, capable of disseminating their knowledge and skills throughout their formations. Furthermore, successful completion of the course qualifies soldiers to become their unit marksmanship master trainer (UMMT), serving as vital advisors to commanders on all aspects of unit marksmanship training. These UMMTs act as the primary conduit between the Marksmanship Training Unit and individual units, significantly expanding the MTU’s reach and impact across the entire state.
Sgt. Michael Swinehart, from the 108th Field Artillery Regiment, 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 28th Infantry Division, Pennsylvania Army National Guard, emphasized the practical implications of this training. “Without qualified weapons experts within a unit, the risk of weapon malfunctions, damage, and potentially unsafe situations dramatically increases,” he explained, highlighting the critical role of trained personnel in maintaining operational readiness and safety.
The Individual Training Branch and Marksmanship Training Unit have been conducting this vital course annually since 2021, when it superseded the legacy small arms weapons expert course. Due to the consistently high demand and recognized need, they are now planning to double the course frequency to twice a year, ensuring more Pennsylvania National Guard soldiers gain access to this essential training.
Spc. Tyler Kase, CSWC assistant instructor with the Ambassador Demonstration Team, underscored the rigorous selection process and high expectations of the course. “We prioritize motivation and dedication. If a student’s commitment wavers, we address it directly, ensuring a positive and driven learning environment. Negative attitudes or a lack of motivation are not tolerated,” Kase asserted, emphasizing the demanding nature of the program.
Undeterred by challenging weather conditions, the Crew Served Weapons Course proceeds regardless of weather, visibility, or time of day. Students and instructors alike demonstrated unwavering commitment, persevering through cold, snow, wind, and demanding night training exercises.
“The students expressed significant appreciation for the hands-on experience with these weapons systems in adverse weather and during night-fire ranges,” Doucette noted. “These are crucial skills that are often overlooked but are absolutely essential for comprehensive soldier proficiency.”
Both students and cadre dedicated extensive hours both in classroom instruction and field exercises, delving into the intricacies of complex weapons systems. Throughout the demanding course, a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork prevailed, fostering a highly effective learning environment.
“When you have soldiers who are this dedicated and committed to working together, it truly amplifies the motivation and overall success of the training,” Swinehart concluded, highlighting the positive impact of teamwork and dedication on mastering crew served weapons.
