September 29, 2015 -- Approximately 30 Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion
conducted a live-fire range utilizing the MK-153 Shoulder-launched Multipurpose
Assault Weapon, or SMAW, at Camp Lejeune, September 29, 2015.
As combat engineers, the Marines must be able to provide
both mobility and counter-mobility assets to whatever unit they are embedded
with.
“Marines with this capability can be that one small team
that adds that big piece to the unit they are attached to,” said 1st Lt. Connor
McCubrey, a platoon commander with the unit.
McCubrey says the SMAW has the ability to be used as both an
anti-armor weapon and a breaching tool.
“We can use the SMAW to take out vehicles that provide a
threat to our troops and at the same time, we can use it to destroy a bunker or
obstacle that may be in our way,” said McCubrey. “From there, we can move through
and assault the enemy.”
As many junior Marines have never shot this weapon system,
this range is important to for Marines to familiarize themselves and build proficiency
in utilizing the SMAW.
“I want them to be comfortable handling the weapons system,”
said Cpl. Daniel Holzem, a squad leader with the unit. “I want them to have the
confidence to pick up the weapon and, if need be, do their job well.”
The Marines spent several weeks building up to the live-fire
portion of the range. Starting out with practical classes, the Marines were required to learn the
nomenclature of the SMAW and how the system works.
“We then moved to learning how to properly carry, load, and
sight in on the target,” said Holzem. “The Marines then spent time dry-firing
the SMAW and eventually built up to what we’re doing here today.”
The Marines each fired three rounds, first firing off two
training rounds and then one high-explosive round.
“The training rounds are essentially the same as the live
round, except there isn’t a warhead on the tip,” said McCubrey. “It simulates
firing off the high explosive round and lets the Marine know what to expect.”
The Marines conducted the training in preparation for an
upcoming deployment.
“At the end of the day, this training lets us add our piece
and go forward toward the overall mission,” said McCubrey.