Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Marines Conduct Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Exercise 2012

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James Norman, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

CAMP RODRIGUEZ, Korea (NNS) -- Marines assigned to Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC) 2nd Company, 2nd Platoon started training at Camp Rodriguez Live Fire Complex Feb. 27, as part of FAST Exercise 2012.

Approximately 50 Marines will spend the next 13 days training in classrooms, conducting live and dry firing evolutions and participating in mock offensive engagements to further sustain and improve weapons marksmanship.

"The point of this exercise and training is meant to sustain our platoon offensive and defensive tactical capability at a tactical level," said FASTPAC 2nd Platoon Commander, Capt. Derek Rey.

Throughout the evolution, Marines will get the chance to further improve their marksmanship skills on dry and live firing ranges with the MM9 pistol, M-16 A4 rifle, M4 assault rifle, M240 medium machinegun and the M39 enhanced marksmanship rifle.

"Only six Marines out of the platoon are able to get qualified for the M39 EMR, so I don't get to shoot it as much as I'd like," said Lance Corp. Timothy Gainey. "Being here [Camp Rodriguez] will help me get more training so I can improve my score."

2nd Platoon will conduct two-man firing squad attacks, trench clearing techniques and improve their skills to recapture buildings.

"I hope the platoon is able build up their small unit tactics into a higher level of proficiency", said Rey. "This exercise will also give the platoon the chance to develop individual leadership skills."

Marines assigned to FASTPAC 2nd Company, 2nd Platoon are based out of Yorktown, Va, and are forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan embarked aboard the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19).

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