WO2 Murray Bobbin instructs US soldiers on how to erect a hutchie. Photo provided by 31RQR.

Californian invasion
Queenslanders play host to US National Guard

By Maj Brejetta Acres
THE alliance between Australia and the Unites States was strengthened recently when soldiers from 31RQR participated in Exercise Pacific Reserve with the US National Guard.

The aim of the exchange exercise was to develop the interoperability between the Army Reserve and the US National Guard.

While the Australian contingent was soaking up the sun in Hawaii, 31RQR hosted the US unit – C Coy, 1-184 Infantry Californian Army National Guard.

Members of 31RQR instructed their US brothers in arms on the main Australian weapons used by the infantry and on tactical procedures. Field firing was conducted in Mount Stuart Training Area and High Range for three days, followed by jungle training in the Bluewater area for four days.

Training included:

• Familiarisation training on the F88 and GLA
• Individual, pairs, team, squad and platoon field firing by day and night
• Close country familiarisation
• Platoon and squad patrolling, ambushing and harbour drills
• Platoon, squad and individual navigation
• Tracking and follow-up procedures
• Night patrolling using NFE

Capt Chris Ellison, CO of the US contingent, said the training the Americans were involved in was great.

“I really like the camaraderie you guys have got going here,” he said.

During the jungle training the US soldiers were given the opportunity to go on the sneaker range – a shoot they do not usually get to do. Many found it a refreshing challenge to employ their marksmanship skills in a different scenario.

Capt Ellison commented on the high level of instruction his soldiers received, saying he was pleased with the knowledge, enthusiasm and experience displayed by the Australian instructors.

The more experienced instructors – WO2 Rick Wells, WO2 Murray Bobbin, WO2 Darren Carter, Sgt Paul Nunan, Cpl Anning and Cpl Lewis – appreciated these comments. In return, they praised the US soldiers on their high level of participation.

The purpose of the exercise was to gather detailed information on issues that effect interoperability between Australian and US forces, and undertake familiarisation training in capabilities and equipment.

Maj Donald Quinn, Operations Officer, said the exercise was conducted at a pace that allowed sufficient time for all personnel to conduct appropriate battle preparation.

“The standard attained was very good,” he said.

“It would have been enhanced by more time in the field – if the Americans’ visit had been longer this would have been possible.”

With any cultural exchange program there is the challenge of understanding and overcoming the cultural and language barriers.

‘Hua’ (pronounced ‘Hoo-ah’) is the word US soldiers use frequently after a period of instruction – meaning hear, understand and acknowledge.

31RQR soldiers parade at various regional depots – Ingham, Charters Towers, Bowen and Cairns.

The HQ is located at Jezzine Barracks, Townsville.

If you are interested in joining the Army Reserve and becoming a member of 31RQR, contact WO2 Darren Carter on (07) 4771 1092 or 1800 555 601.

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