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NEWS | April 28, 2022

Virtual simulation trainer provides valuable marksmanship practice for Army Reserve Soldiers

By Courtesy Story 362nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Soldiers from various units under the 361st Theatre Public Affairs Support Element, 99th Readiness Division, conducted a marksmanship familiarization using the Engagement Skills Trainer 2000, here, April 8, 2022.

"Firing your weapon should not be a surprise when you are deployed," said Staff Sgt. Camacho Roberts of the 361st TPASE, after participating in the training simulation. “The importance of doing things like the simulation trainer is to get yourself comfortable with firing your weapon.”

Soldiers were instructed on what to expect in terms of marksmanship basics, safety measures, how to handle their weapons, and engaging a target.

The EST2000 provides real-life shooting experience and direct feedback in a virtual environment without the expense of ammunition and going out to the range.

The Soldiers engaged targets based on the new rifle qualification tables implemented in October 2020. Soldiers must fire rounds from the unsupported and supported positions of standing, prone, and kneeling.

Chief Warrant Officer Eric Flowers, commander of the 380th Army Band, supervised and coached Soldiers to improve their marksmanship.

“I just think this is a great training event and more units, whether they are deploying or not, need to take advantage of what they offer with the EST2000,” he said.

U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers take every opportunity to practice marksmanship. Retaining combat knowledge is essential to basic Soldier skills, no matter the Military Occupational Specialty.

“It is important for you and your battle buddies to know that each of you all went through the same training so you are more tightly-knit in terms of a group of warriors,” said Roberts. “You know you’re more prepared for going down range.”