MARINE CORPS OUTLYING FIELD ATLANTIC, N.C.- --
2nd Marine Aircraft Wing Chemical,
Biological, Radiological and Nuclear specialists conducted radiological
training at Marine Corps Outlying Field Atlantic and concluded the training
evolution at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, Feb. 17-19.
More than 20 Marines with
Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, Marine Aircraft Group 14 and Marine
Aircraft Group 28 took part in training scenarios with live radioactive
sources. Marines were tasked with identifying and locating the sources of
radiation, while following protocol during the training event. CBRN Marines
concluded their training evolution with a debrief at MCAS Cherry Point to
reflect on the results of the event.
“The reality of having active
radiation sources puts more pressure on the Marines during the training
exercises,” explained Sgt. John Michau, the CBRN defense chief with MACG-28. “Although
it is a training exercise, the sense of urgency and stress on safety is greater
as there is a threat of radioactive exposure.”
The CBRN Marines conducted
drills simulating a combat scenario, as well as urbanized situations they could
potentially be tasked to respond to in the future. The Marines also utilized
all their available radiological equipment.
According to Michau, the
training exercise allowed the Marines to have an integration between the
various units and different levels of experiences. Newer CBRN members had the
ability to go down range with experienced senior Marines and receive guidance
on procedures they were unclear of.
“This exercise not only
allows us to evaluate the readiness of our Marines, but it also builds
confidence in their knowledge of their gear while bringing us together as a
team,” said Michau. “As Marines, we must always hone our skills in order to
ensure we are ready at a moments notice. The feedback we receive after the
training we conduct lets us see the areas of improvement we have to work on and
see the Marines perspective on the training.”
According to Lance Cpl. Ryan Shriver, a CBRN specialist with
MWHS-2, this is the first time he has ever participated in live training in the
fleet. The training provided the Marines with first-hand experience which is not
routinely conducted due to the presence of live radiation sources.
“We run mock drills often as part of training,” said
Shriver. “This is the first time since my arrival where we did live training.
It’s a different experience to have live readings and real factors kick in
while training. The live training allows us to hone our skills as individuals
and as response teams.”