Training for U.S. Ground Forces at Army Maneuver Combat Training Centers
Abstract
In the last 3 years, the Army has been transforming its traditionally division-centric force to a more flexible, agile force. Part of this transition has included a restructuring of the Operations Groups, specifically Observer/Controllers, at Army Maneuver Combat Training Centers. This is one in a series of reports concerning training for U.S. ground forces supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. This report addresses the priority of staffing Observer/Controllers at Army Maneuver Combat Training Centers. Mission rehearsal exercises conducted at Army Maneuver Combat Training Centers serve as the final collective training event for units deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Observer/Controllers are the foundation of this training because they control engagements and operations, observe unit performance, teach doctrine, monitor safety, and provide feedback to units through after-action reviews. Results. The Army's Maneuver Combat Training Centers are providing military positions as part of an overall restructuring process and to meet the training requirements of a more modular force. However, training for ground forces could be negatively impacted by this restructuring if Observer/Controller positions are not staffed near full-strength in FY 2009. Specifically, the full benefit of combat training may be degraded and the amount of critical feedback provided by the Observer/Controllers during training may be reduced. To prevent this from happening, priority for staffing Observer/Controllers should be increased from current levels dictated in Army manning guidance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 28, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA478070
Entities
Organizations
- Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Department of Defense