CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - -- The table-three qualification is a moving combat marksmanship course. Marines start at the 25-yard line, gradually moving closer to the target while executing different shooting drills, including kneeling, pivoting and shooting while moving.
In addition to the yearly requirements of proficiency in the drill, the training also gives new Marines experience they haven’t received since their time in the operating forces.
“We have a good number of newer Marines with us,” said Sgt. Cody Poole, the operations non-commissioned officer with Bulk Fuel Co. “This is a good opportunity to get them acquainted with this type of training and to get some shooting work in.”
Even though the training can be seen as routine, it is still important to ensure the shoot is taken seriously.
“Safety is paramount,” Poole said, a native of Elberta, Alabama. “We didn’t have hiccups or complications, and that’s always most important when dealing with live ammunition.”
While bulk fuel specialists’ primary duty isn't necessarily related to rifle skills, every Marine is a rifleman.
The training requires Marines to execute various shooting techniques. Some commands call for the Marines to kneel and fire, others call for the Marines to fire while standing, then kneeling. Listening to the commands in the training is crucial to passing the table.
“This is really good training to have, regardless if they end up using it or not,” Poole said. “You never know, at any given time, where you’ll be in the Marine Corps or what battle is next. It’s all about what they do now and preparing for real-life situations.”