DJIBOUTI -- A platoon of Marines mounted in and operating light-armored vehicles fired small-arms weapons while engaging training targets at a range here Jan. 31.
Vehicle crewman and dismounted scouts worked together to assault through a fire-and-maneuver course, and crewman and vehicle commanders had a chance to locate and destroy targets with medium machine guns.
“Training enables our platoon to operate in sections and increase our cohesiveness and efficiency as a fighting team,” said platoon sergeant Gunnery Sgt. Matthew Rea.
Each section practiced shooting, moving and communicating as a team, according to Lance Cpl. Jared Douglas, a rifleman with the platoon.
“Repetition is a good way to remain proficient,” said Douglas, 19, who hails from Dilworth, Minn. “This way we can work out any problems we may have before we encounter a real life scenario.”
Elements of the unit are currently deployed aboard USS Makin Island as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, a U.S. Central Command theater reserve force. The group is providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet area of responsibility.