New weapons training sets Airmen on target

by Senior Airman Alyssa C. Wallace
366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1/3/2012 - MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Bases Air Force-wide were required to implement a new Air Force Rifle Qualification course by Dec. 1 in order to better prepare deploying Airmen on how to engage in combat with the enemy downrange.

More than 400 Gunfighters have received this training since it was implemented at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Nov. 1. The course was developed by Air Force leadership in response to criticisms that the previous course was not sufficiently advanced.

"For a lot of years the Air Force has kind of figured short-range combat-type marksmanship training wasn't necessary for bulk of the personnel," said Master Sgt. Stephen Vermilya, 366th Security Forces Squadron combat arms noncommissioned officer in-charge. "We have come 180 degrees to where we realize our troops are seeing themselves outside the wire more than ever before, so we do need to give them these skills. It's going to make our troops much more capable in combat."

During the new course, Airmen will fire almost twice as many rounds at multiple targets, shoot from a standing, unsupported position on both "semi" and "burst" settings, and conduct quick-reaction drills.

"In the old course, we expended 100 rounds per shooter," Vermilya said. "The new course has the students firing more than 180 rounds of ammunition. The course of fire is substantially changed -- it is far more advanced. It introduces new weapon employment techniques not seen or used by the non-security forces personnel."

The techniques have proven to be tougher, as the base's pass rate has dropped from 94 percent to about 61 percent, according to Vermilya. However, students should not be worried.

"Don't be discouraged, because it's a substantially more difficult course," he said. "You're not alone, there are a lot of people in the Air Force who may not make it the first time around. Just like anything out there, additional practice is what's going to get you to meet the qual."

For those who find themselves off target, Vermilya's Combat Arms Training and Maintenance staff holds special training for those who need help hitting the mark.

"Remedial training is more one-on-one," said Senior Airman William Rhodes, 366th SFS combat arms instructor. "I take the time to point out things they can do better and show them different techniques. More often than not, the shooter qualifies at the end of the day. It's very important; the training is more realistic to what's going on in the world today."

While the course may be more challenging, Vermilya says he has received constructive feedback.

"A lot of folks have been positive and really liked it -- they thought it was fun, significantly more advanced and more interesting," Vermilya said. "They like the fact they're getting additional rounds and more time to fire. There are still a few people who think it's a little too difficult, but we're optimistic their skills will improve as we continue this course."