MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Combining communications and combat skills, the Marines of Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28 conducted a squadron sized field exercise at Camp Lejeune, May 13.
During the field exercise, the Marines were exposed to several different scenarios that tested not only their communications knowledge, but also pushed them to their physical limits.
“The Marines practiced marksmanship, endurance training, and conducted basic combat skills as a team throughout the course of the field exercise,” said Capt. Ron Creech, the alpha company commander with MWCS-28. “The training improved the Marines’ basic skills and brought them together as a squadron.”
The mission of MWCS-28 is to provide expeditionary communications for units within the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing and all of its assets. The training is designed to increase the Marines’ understanding of the squadron’s mission to both 2nd MAW and the Marine Air-Ground Task Force, especially during high tempo operations.
“These exercises allow us to examine the squadron and all of its operational capabilities.” said Creed. “Ensuring the readiness of our Marines and evaluating the improvements they make throughout training guarantees we are providing the best communication assets we can offer to the air element and the Marine Air-Ground-Task Force.”
During the training, the Marines cross-trained with different sections in the squadron allowing them to learn the basic functions of equipment they do not regularly work with – ultimately building their technical and tactical knowledge across the squadron.
“As communication Marines, we need to ensure we are fully proficient in our designated field,” explained Cpl. Adam Wiley, a radio operator with MWCS-28. “Expanding our knowledge helps us come together as a better, more well-rounded squadron which ensures a higher level of mission readiness. The real-world scenarios give us hands-on training and familiarizes us with our individual jobs to form a fully functioning communication network.”