FORT KNOX, KY. – Cadets completed their Call for Fire Training (CFFT) using virtual simulators on June 1.
“From the old days, we didn’t have computers then or the virtual aspect of the training that we have now,” said cadre member Master Sgt. Glenn Hance. “So, it’s much more effective now and much more real life.”
CFFT teaches cadets how to identify their location on a map, locate enemy forces and call for a fire mission.
Cadet Thomas Macri, Lehigh University, 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, Charlie Company, 1st Platoon, plots points on a map during Call for Fire Training June 1 on Fort Knox, Ky., during Cadet Summer Training. Cadets go through Call for Fire Training to learn how to properly direct artillery fire towards a target. (Photo by Mattie Cook)
“It’s important to know this so that number one they don’t call artillery on themselves or their own position,” Hance said. “Number two, they can destroy the enemy before the enemy destroys them.”
The training is separated into three parts. It begins with a 30-minute lecture, continues with two hours of hands-on practice and concludes with the Cadets taking an hour-long test.
“The practical exercises we’re going through are literally the exact same as the test,” said Cadet Carlos Lopez of Charlie Company Second Platoon from the University of Puerto Rico. “So, they’re making sure they’re setting us up for success.”
The Cadets are tested on the six elements of the call for fire message. This includes objective identification, warning order, target location, target description, method of engagement and method of fire and control. They have an hour to take the test and can re-take it if necessary.
Cadet Jessica Ellis, Augusta University, 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, Charlie Company, 1st Platoon, plot points on a map during Call for Fire Training June 1 on Fort Knox, Ky., at Cadet Summer Training. Cadets go through Call for Fire Training to learn how to properly direct artillery fire towards a target. (Photo by Mattie Cook)
“Every individual has to pass the task, but what I’ve learned is that what matters is that you help others pass as well and not to just focus on yourself,” Lopez said.
Cadet Summer Training will bring over 8,000 Cadets through Basic and Advanced Camp at Fort Knox this summer. The camps are designed to help Cadets become future leaders in the Army. If you think you have what it takes to be a Cadet or are interested in a job after college, click the following link: https://my.goarmy.com/info/rotc1/index.jsp?iom=IP08-AUTO-R1NA-BR-XXX-XX-XXX-MO-XX-X-BRCMAC:IP08
