‘Wolf Pack’ conducts irregular warfare at Range 100

Twentynine Palms -- Marines are continuously training to combat both conventional and unconventional military forces in order to support contingency operations around the globe. Company A, 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, conducted training to enhance their understanding of irregular warfare at Range 100, Sept. 5-9, 2016.

During the training, the Marines practiced a variety of exercises to include patrolling, land navigation as well as planting and locating improvised explosive devices.

“The idea behind this training is to get away from the cookie-cutter exercises that we sometimes fall into,” said Sgt. Aaron Rivera, platoon sergeant, Company A. “Doing the same drills over and over helps us master those concepts, but if we don’t practice other methods we won’t be effective in dealing with the ever-changing conditions of the battlefield.”

A Co. marines used the exercise to prepare themselves for an upcoming training event in which they will act as the opposing force for their, 3rd LAR counterparts, Company C.

“This training teaches our Marines a hybrid of combating both traditional and irregular fighting forces,” said 1st Lt. Mark Hirschman, executive officer, A Co. “With this, we can teach our Marines to think outside of the normal parameters while also training for encounters with regular military forces.”

While acting as the opposing force, A Co. will be able to pass on the ideas of thinking outside the box while in a combat mindset.

“Units are constantly getting new Marines,” Rivera said. “These Marines are taught the basics but don’t yet have the training to fight an irregular force. This training not only helps Marines in our company but also the other companies in remaining prepared for any situation they may come across.”