The Crucible - The JRTC Experience Podcast cover image

The Crucible - The JRTC Experience Podcast

Latest episodes

undefined
Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 1min

086 S01 Ep 29 - Relearning the Lost Art of Wargaming w/JRTC’s DCOG, LTC Ian Ginty

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the eighty-sixth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Task Force Senior for the BDE Command & Control (BCT HQ), LTC Timothy Price on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guest is the Deputy Commander of Operations Group (DCOG), LTC Ian Ginty. As the DCOG, LTC Ginty primarily focuses on assisting units through the Reception, Staging, Onward Movement, and Integration (RSOI) process, facilitating sustainment operations, and providing leadership roles within the fictitious division staff as the BCTs higher headquarters.   In this episode, we delve deeply into the often-overlooked yet critical role of wargaming within the military decision-making process (MDMP), emphasizing its importance as a tool to synchronize plans and anticipate operational challenges. Wargaming is not merely a procedural step but a vital exercise in critical thinking, requiring robust staff participation and commander leadership. Topics included the necessity of a well-developed enemy plan, staff synchronization, and the importance of understanding the cascading effects of operational decisions across all warfighting functions. The conversation also underscored the pitfalls of rushed or incomplete wargaming, which can lead to chaos and poor transitions during execution phases.   We further explore the challenges and best practices for integrating wargaming into unit training, particularly at home-station. We highlight the importance of rehearsing wargaming with a rules-based approach to build staff experience and enhance their ability to identify and address points of friction. By conducting tabletop exercises and leveraging simulations, units can refine their processes, ensuring that gaps in synchronization and sustainment planning are addressed before field operations. The discussion reinforced that a disciplined approach to wargaming not only prepares units for combat but also develops critical thinkers who can adapt to the complexities of large-scale combat operations.   Part of S01 “The Leader’s Laboratory” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.
undefined
Jan 9, 2025 • 38min

085 S07 Ep 06 – Strike’s Fires – A Mobile Brigade Combat Team’s Fire Support Enterprise in Large Scale Combat Operations w/LTC Haskell of 1-320 FA, 2nd MBCT, 101st ABN (AASLT)

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the eighty-fifth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ LTC Russell Cummings is the TF Senior of Fires Support Task Force and OCT for the battalion commander of the various field artillery battalions at the JRTC, on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guest is the battalion commander for 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, LTC Christopher Haskell.   The 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment (1-320 FA), known by its call sign “Top Guns,” is a storied artillery unit within the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). Originally constituted in 1917, the battalion has a long history of excellence in providing fire support, with significant contributions in World War II, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Its motto, “Volens et Potens”—Latin for “Willing and Able”—reflects the battalion’s dedication to mission readiness and adaptability. As a critical component of 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team, “Strike,” of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), 1-320 FA continues to deliver precision fires and integrated support, demonstrating its enduring commitment to excellence on both the battlefield and the training field.   In this episode, we focus on the lessons learned and best practices from 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, during their recent JRTC rotation, with a particular emphasis on the joint fires enterprise. We discussed the challenges and successes in integrating joint fires at the brigade and battalion levels, highlighting the importance of synchronizing fires with maneuver to achieve operational objectives. The use of emerging technologies, such as the SBU-E (Sensitive But Unclassified Encrypted) network and MUOS (Mobile User Objective System), played a critical role in maintaining robust communications for fire support coordination in a contested environment. The team also emphasized the need for rehearsing fires plans and leveraging deception techniques, which proved invaluable for exposing and targeting adversary capabilities. These efforts underscored the importance of a deliberate and cohesive approach to joint fires integration, ensuring the brigade’s success in multi-domain operations.   Additionally, the discussion delves into the brigade’s innovative use of a Multifunctional Reconnaissance Company (MFRC) to enhance joint fires capabilities. By integrating reconnaissance, electronic warfare, robotics, and unmanned systems, the MFRC provided precise, multi-domain targeting information that directly supported fire support operations. We emphasized the critical role of effective observer plans and cross-training within fire support teams to maintain flexibility and redundancy in delivering timely and accurate fires. The conversation also highlighted the necessity of mastering fundamentals—such as concealment, camouflage, and rapid displacement—to protect fire support assets and preserve combat power. This integration of advanced technologies with disciplined warfighting practices demonstrated how the joint fires enterprise can serve as a decisive enabler in large-scale combat operations (LSCO).   Part of S07 “Joint Fires Discussions” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.
undefined
Dec 19, 2024 • 50min

084 S04 Ep 04 – Reconnaissance in a Post-ARSTRUC World w/JRTC’s DCOG, LTC Ian Ginty

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the eighty-fourth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Task Force Senior for the BDE Command & Control (BCT HQ), LTC Timothy Price on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guest is the Deputy Commander of Operations Group (DCOG), LTC Ian Ginty. As the DCOG, LTC Ginty primarily focuses on assisting units through the Reception, Staging, Onward Movement, and Integration (RSOI) process, facilitating sustainment operations, and providing leadership roles within the fictitious division staff as the BCTs higher headquarters. In this episode, the conversation focuses on the critical challenges of reconnaissance and security tasks for infantry brigades and battalions in the wake of Army Force Structure changes (ARSTRUC). With the removal of cavalry squadrons from Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCTs), leaders now face the reality of redistributing these tasks within their formations. The discussion emphasizes how companies and battalions must adapt to perform reconnaissance and security functions traditionally carried out by their cavalry scout brethren. Best practices include rethinking task organization, enhancing training for company and platoon leadership, and providing clear reconnaissance guidance to effectively support decision-making at the brigade level. The importance of a detailed operational framework and disciplined staff planning to manage these new responsibilities is highlighted as key to success. Additionally, the discussion covers the challenges of integrating new technology to support reconnaissance and security operations without relying solely on these tools as a solution. While unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and other sensors offer enhanced capabilities, the speakers emphasize that effective reconnaissance begins with clear intent, disciplined initiative, and rigorous training. Leaders must develop the intellectual framework necessary to synthesize information quickly and support timely decisions. The conversation also stresses the need to prepare company commanders and platoon leaders to assume greater responsibility for reconnaissance tasks, promoting adaptability and ensuring that infantry units are capable of meeting the demands of large-scale combat operations (LSCO) in a post-ARSTRUC world. Part of S04 “Scouts Out” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.
undefined
Dec 12, 2024 • 1h 8min

083 S12 Ep 07 – Getting Pegasus Ready – 2 PARA’s Approach to LSCO w/LtCol Hitchins & RSM Groves of the British Arm

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the eighty-third episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Task Force Executive Officer Observer-Coach-Trainer for Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ), LTC Westly “West” LaFitte on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are the command team for 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment of the British Army. LtCol Christopher Hitchins is the Commander for 2 PARA with his Regimental Sergeant Major, RSM Christopher Groves.   The 2nd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment (2 PARA) is an airborne infantry unit of the British Army, renowned for its rapid deployment capabilities and combat effectiveness. The present day 2 PARA was formed in July 1948 from the 5th (Scottish) Parachute Battalion. However, they draw heritage from the 2nd Parachute Battalion which was formed in 1941 during WWII and amalgamated with the 3rd Para Bn in 1947. 2 PARA has participated in a wide-variety of significant military operations, including the D-Day landings, the Suez Crisis, anti-terror operations in Cyprus, stability operations in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, expeditionary operations in support of the Falklands War, and modern conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The battalion’s motto, “Utrinque Paratus,” meaning “Ready for Anything,” reflects its readiness to deploy and fight anywhere in the world at a moment’s notice. Their call-sign, “Pegasus,” symbolizes its airborne heritage and connection to the mythological winged horse. Known for their courage, discipline, and professionalism, 2 PARA continues to serve as a core component of the British Army’s airborne forces, capable of executing complex operations in challenging environments. In this episode, we focus on themes surrounding multinational interoperability and the challenges of conducting operations in restrictive terrain. Our guests on their training experience at the Joint Readiness Training Center, emphasizing the complexities of transitioning from counterinsurgency (COIN) to large-scale combat operations. Topics discussed include adapting British planning processes, such as the combat estimate, to align with the U.S. military decision-making process. The conversation highlights the importance of effective communication between allied forces, the necessity of flexibility in dynamic combat environments, and the integration of new technologies like the ATAK C2 system to enhance situational awareness and ease the cognitive load on commanders. Specifically, this will allow various unified action partners, such as coalition forces or multinational allies to focus on a concept known as I3: Integration, Interoperability, and Interdependence, which emphasizes the collaboration and synchronization between UAPs to maximize combat effectiveness. Best practices for integrating enablers, such as engineers, artillery, and sustainment elements, into battle group operations are also addressed. The discussion reveals challenges posed by dense, restrictive terrain, including logistics management, water resupply, and maintaining battlefield discipline. Leaders underscore the critical role of small-unit leadership, adaptability, and mastery of the basics, such as camouflage, concealment, and fieldcraft, in achieving mission success. These insights offer valuable lessons for improving multinational coordination, overcoming friction in complex environments, and ensuring readiness for high-intensity LSCO. Part of S12 “The JIIMs of JRTC: Working with Our Unified Action Partners” series. For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.
undefined
Dec 5, 2024 • 53min

082 S07 Ep 05 – The Science & Foundation of Joint Fires in LSCO, Part 1 of 2, w/the JRTC Fire Support Enterprise

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the eighty-second episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by COL Ricky Taylor, the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are various seasoned Observer-Coach-Trainers across the fire support enterprise at the JRTC with over an astonishing one hundred completed rotations collectively.   LTC Russell Cummings is the TF Senior of Fires Support Task Force and OCT for the battalion commander of the various field artillery battalions at the JRTC. He has over fifteen rotations as a TF Senior. LTC Stephen Ficchi is the Brigade Fires Support Officer OCT for BDE Command & Control (BCT HQ). He has an astounding thirty-one rotations under his belt across two assignments to the JRTC. CW3 Jerrad Rader is the Brigade Targeting Officer OCT for BC2 (BCT HQ) with seventeen rotations as an OCT. MSG James Morrison is the outgoing BDE Fires Support NCO OCT for BC2 (BCT HQ) with nineteen rotations under his belt. MSG Brandon Roberts is the incoming BDE Fires Support NCO OCT for BC2 (BCT HQ) and has nine rotations as an OCT. And last but not least is SFC Tulio Perez, the BN Fires Support NCO OCT for Task Force 2 (IN BN) and he has thirteen rotations under his belt.   This episode is part one of a two-part series, described as the “undergraduate” level of the discussion on joint fires in LSCO. Part two will serve as the “graduate-level” session, offering deeper insights and more advanced concepts, reflecting the complexities of implementing effective fires in multi-domain operations. Stay tuned for a continuation of this critical exploration of fire support in large-scale combat.   In this episode, we focus on the critical integration of fire support in large-scale combat operations. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of building trust and full integration between fire support teams and maneuver elements to ensure synchronized operations. Detailed planning and effective rehearsals are highlighted as essential practices for success, with a focus on the importance of digital fire systems, observer plans, and cross-training within units to adapt to the complexity of modern battlefields. Additionally, the conversation delves into how fire support planning must align with brigade priorities, including massing fires at the right time and space, leveraging modern unmanned aerial systems, and maintaining proficiency across all echelons.   We also explore the challenges posed by operating in contested and restrictive environments, emphasizing the need for fire support teams to operate with agility and adaptability. Specifically, we discuss how to overcome degraded communication and contested electromagnetic environments by utilizing redundant systems and clear, simple communication plans. Another critical element is ensuring effective observer plans, where joint fires observers, forward observers, and unmanned systems work in concert to provide accurate targeting data in real time. The integration of emerging technologies, such as precision-guided munitions and data-driven targeting, was highlighted as a key enabler to enhance lethality and survivability on the modern battlefield. These efforts underline the importance of rigorous training and seamless collaboration across all levels of command.   Part of S07 “Joint Fires Discussions” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.
undefined
Nov 28, 2024 • 49min

081 S01 Ep 28 - Breaking the Gridlock: Stryker Tactics in Restrictive Terrain & Multidomain Maneuver w/MG Doyle & CSM Kupratty of 4th ID

MG David Doyle, Commanding General of the 4th Infantry Division, and CSM Alex Kupratty share insights on modern Stryker tactics in restrictive terrain. They discuss the evolving roles of senior NCOs and the importance of adaptive training for large-scale combat operations. Leadership philosophies are highlighted, emphasizing continuous learning and mentorship. The duo also dives into innovative reconnaissance strategies and the future of military readiness, showcasing their commitment to effective preparation and operational excellence.
undefined
Nov 21, 2024 • 1h 35min

080 S05 Ep 01 – How to Sustain the Brigade Fight in Large Scale Combat Operations w/Three Senior Sustainers

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the eightieth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Task Force Senior for the Leader Training Program, LTC Drew Zabriskie on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are two senior sustainers, LTC Bruce Roett & LTC Daniel Belzer. LTC Bruce Roett is the Task Force Senior for TF Sustainment (BSB / CSSB). LTC Daniel Belzer is the Commander of 526th Light Support Battalion of 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).   The 526th Light Support Battalion, formerly known as the 526th Brigade Support Battalion, is a vital sustainment unit within the 101st Airborne Division, providing logistical and operational support to ensure combat effectiveness. With a history dating back to its inception in World War II, the battalion has evolved alongside modern military needs, transitioning from traditional support roles to a lighter, more agile sustainment structure. Over decades of service, the 526th has supported operations in conflicts such as World War II, Iraq, and Afghanistan, consistently demonstrating its capability to adapt and provide critical logistical support under diverse and challenging conditions. They have the Hollywood call-sign of “Performance” and the brigade’s motto of “Best by Performance.”   In this episode we discuss on the logistical challenges and best practices encountered during operations at the JRTC. The focus centers on the experiences of leaders managing sustainment functions in a Brigade Support Battalion (BSB) or Logistics Support Battalion (LSB) and in a Combat Sustainment Support Battalion or Division Sustainment Support Battalion. Key lessons learned include the critical importance of proactive terrain management, the need to decentralize base clusters for survivability, and leveraging innovative practices like additive manufacturing for rapid repair and supply replenishment. The episode highlights the necessity of balancing mobility with operational needs, emphasizing modular approaches to sustainment and security while managing resource constraints.   At the company and platoon leadership levels, a recurring theme is the requirement for clear communication, disciplined planning, and adaptive execution. Leaders must ensure small-unit proficiency in tasks like logistics planning, convoy operations, and decentralized sustainment support, particularly under high-stress, resource-limited conditions. The discussions stress the importance of rehearsing operations extensively, building redundancy into communication and logistics plans, and maintaining flexibility to respond to dynamic enemy actions and environmental factors. These insights collectively underscore the complexity and criticality of sustainment operations in large-scale combat scenarios.   Due to operational security concerns this is the “cut edition” made for the general public. For the “uncut edition,”  please checkout our MilSuite and Microsoft Teams’ channels.   Part of S05 “Beans, Bullets, Band-Aids, Batteries, Water, & Fuel” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.
undefined
Nov 14, 2024 • 37min

079 S09 Ep 02 – Command Post Modernization and Survivability - Be Hard to Find and Hard to Kill

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the seventy-ninth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the S-3 Operations Officer for the Plans / Exercise Maneuver Control, MAJ Daniel Plumb on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are CPT Princeton Bradley and SFC Michael LaPlant. CPT Bradley is the S-2 Intelligence Observer-Coach-Trainer for TF-3 (IN BN) and SFC LaPlant is the BN Fires Support NCO OCT for the Fires Support TF.   MAJ Plum, with extensive experience as a maneuver planner, brings a strategic perspective to command post operations. CPT Bradley, previously a battalion S-2 and Division G-2 targeting officer, offers insights from an intelligence background, emphasizing the importance of situational awareness and security in command post layouts. SFC LaPlant provides a seasoned NCO’s perspective on discipline and functionality, underlining the challenges and advantages of open-air, camouflaged CPs over traditional setups. Together, these leaders provide a comprehensive view of how modern command posts can operate more effectively across multiple domains in large-scale combat operations.   In this episode we discuss some of the fielding lines of effort to modernize command posts with the goal of increasing survivability in modern warfare. Specifically we look at some of the ways that CP operations on the modern battlefield demand flexibility, mobility, and minimized visibility across multiple domains. We emphasize the need for command posts to be adaptive in layout and function to reduce their electronic and physical signatures, making them less susceptible to enemy detection and targeting. One notable lesson from exercises at JRTC is the evolution from traditional, stationary setups to a more mobile and modular approach where these are strategically positioned. This mobility allows units to quickly relocate command posts as the battle conditions change, leveraging natural terrain and camouflage to avoid detection and reduce vulnerability to enemy indirect fires and electronic warfare.   Another key insight is an effective command post is simply qualified personnel coupled with systems and processes, made easier with specialized equipment. The goal is to get the right people at the right place and right time with the right systems then you’ll be incredibly effective at C2-ing your unit. Additionally, we highlight the importance of modular design and system integration within the command post itself. By organizing vehicles by function and ensuring that essential command elements can operate independently or together, units improve situational awareness and enhance staff integration. This flexibility is particularly valuable in an unpredictable combat environment, where a command post must quickly transition between supporting current operations and planning future movements. Practical lessons show that offsetting signal-heavy components like antenna farms can further enhance survivability by decreasing the likelihood of detection by enemy electronic warfare assets, thus supporting command continuity even under hostile conditions.   Due to operational security concerns this is the “cut edition” made for the general public. For the “uncut edition” and ‘Ideal CP SOP’ please checkout our MilSuite and Microsoft Teams’ channels.   Part of S09 “Got Comms?” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.
undefined
Nov 7, 2024 • 52min

078 S03 Ep 09 – Preparing Warfighters to Take Company Command w/Two Small Group Leaders from the Maneuver Captain's Career Course

In this engaging discussion, Jordan Scanlon and Matthew Dunn, Small Group Leaders from the Maneuver Captain’s Career Course, share their extensive military backgrounds, including service with the 101st Airborne Division. They explore the adaptability required during unpredictable challenges like natural disasters and the pandemic. The duo emphasizes the importance of effective communication, leadership progression from platoon to company command, and the evolution of combat training protocols, highlighting how strong SOPs and individual responsibility drive success in military operations.
undefined
Oct 31, 2024 • 39min

077 S08 Ep 02 – Planning and Employment of a Combat Aviation Brigade in Large Scale Combat Operations w/COL Nicholas Ploetz of 4th Combat Aviation Brigade

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the seventy-seventh episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the CSM Erik Burris, the Task Force Senior Enlisted Observer-Coach-Trainer for TF Aviation on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guest is COL Nicholas Ploetz, Commander of the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade of the 4th Infantry Division.   The 4th Combat Aviation Brigade (4th CAB) of the 4th Infantry Division (4th ID) has a storied history that reflects its commitment to supporting ground forces and adapting to evolving combat demands. First activated as the 4th Aviation Company, 4th Infantry Division, at Fort Lewis, Washington on 1 April 1957. They were relocated to Fort Hood (now Ft. Cavazos), Texas in 1995, the 4th CAB rapidly established itself as a formidable aviation force within the division, providing critical air support and mobility. They were later relocated to Ft. Carson, Colorado in 2011. Over its deployments to Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, the brigade demonstrated resilience and tactical versatility, embodying the 4th ID’s legacy of “Steadfast and Loyal.” Their ethos is embedded in the brigade’s dedication to mission support, whether through reconnaissance, assault, or medevac capabilities, earning it a respected place within the U.S. Army’s aviation and combat support structure. They have the Hollywood call-sign of “Iron Eagle,” the nickname of “Ivy Eagles,” and the brigade’s motto of “Vigilantia Aeterna” or “Eternal Vigilance.”   In this episode we discuss best practices for effective planning and employment of a combat aviation brigade during large scale combat operations. In LSCO, two core principles emerge as essential for the CAB: standardization in operations and clarity in staff roles and responsibilities. First, standardizing critical elements such as FARPs (Forward Arming and Refueling Points), logistics, and sustainment processes across the CAB enables rapid, adaptable responses to evolving battle conditions. For example, a standardized FARP setup ensures that refueling and resupply can occur with minimal disruption, allowing aviation assets to remain in the fight without delays. This standardization enhances synchronization between the CAB and other units, like the various brigades within the DIV it supports, ensuring timely, mutually reinforcing actions. By embedding standardized protocols, planners can build in contingencies that maintain mission continuity, even when the order or operational environment shifts unexpectedly.   Equally important is cultivating a proficient and well-coordinated staff structure. Clear roles and responsibilities within the CAB’s staff, supported by a rigorous adhered standard operating procedures, are crucial for effective planning and swift decision-making under pressure. Regular military decision-making process repetitions, as observed in training rotations, allow staff members to refine their roles, improving their readiness to tackle complex, high-tempo operations. When staff roles are well-defined and thoroughly rehearsed, the CAB can execute plans more efficiently, maintaining the flexibility needed for fast-paced combat demands. This clarity in structure not only ensures internal cohesion but also strengthens the CAB’s ability to synchronize with division-level goals and respond to DIV support needs effectively.   Together, these practices enable the CAB to operate as a cohesive, agile force that can adapt to and shape the battlefield. Through disciplined standardization and clear, well-rehearsed staff coordination, the CAB is better equipped to deliver sustained support, anticipate operational needs, and reinforce the broader mission objectives in large-scale combat scenarios.   Part of S08 “The Aviator’s Corner” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app