FORT BARFOOT, Va. –
Virginia National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Virginia Beach-based Charlie Troop, 2nd Squadron, 183rd Cavalry Regiment, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team conducted route reconnaissance training Feb. 8, 2025, at Fort Barfoot, Virginia.
“Route reconnaissance allows our troop to assess terrain suitability for the mission, as well as classifying any obstacles and confirming enemy presence in the vicinity,” said Capt. Ian A. Kilpatrick, commander of Charlie Troop.
The training tested the proficiency level of the platoons, explained Kilpatrick. The training was designed to push the platoons, testing Soldier stamina and identify any weaknesses that may occur out in the field, so they are better prepared for future missions.
“We’re working to build platoon and troop level proficiency,” explained Kilpatrick. “Today’s training helps ensure a solid foundation so we can progress to more advanced troop-level tactics.”
As the exercise began, the reconnaissance platoons moved forward after stepping off from their initial landing zone. Roughly 60 Soldiers took part in the training. Of the 60, two platoons made up of about 25 people each were then broken down into squads of 12 people.
“Today’s movement is about four-and-a-half-kilometers,” said Staff Sgt. Joshua W. Patton. “Our squad consists of a nine-person reconnaissance element with a three-person sniper team to efficiently recon the route for the brigade commander.”
Squad leaders effectively communicated mission requirements as the squads advanced along their assigned reconnaissance route.
“During our mission, we were given a list of key tasks from the commander to accomplish over a large area,” said Cpl. Bryant C. Reeder. “In order to accomplish this list, our squad leader delegated us tasks individually as we planned the mission.”
Throughout the route reconnaissance, the squad provided insight into areas that may have appeared potentially dangerous when viewed on satellite imagery and radioed back detailed observations, helping to build a common operating picture.
“My goal for today’s training is that Charlie Troop gains proficiency through repetition,” said Kilpatrick. “That way our Soldiers know exactly what to do when we step outside of training and into an actual mission.”
Read more about 2nd Squadron, 183rd Cavalry Regiment at https://vngpao.info/yckr8w3p.