The 100th Training Division Leader Development (LD) annual Field Training Exercise (FTX), Operation Pinky, took place here at Fort Knox, March 5-8, 2019. 

Operation Pinky’s mission was a unique opportunity for the Division to ensure proper execution of basic and select warrior tasks, build esprit de corps, and increase confidence in equipment. 

“The intent of this field training exercise was to ensure that our Soldiers are trained on their basic warrior tasks while operating in an austere environment,” said 1st Lt. Adam Militello, commander, 100th Training Division (LD), Headquarters and Headquarters Company. “Both the chief of the Army Reserve and chief of staff of the Army have emphasized the importance of this as we transition our global force to the threats of future.” 

The key to Operation Pinky’s success was the coordination of numerous activities into a single, synchronized, continuous training exercise. The four-day event kicked off with an individual weapons qualification and hand grenade qualification. Day two included nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) training where Soldiers went through a gas chamber. The day also included teams of two plotting points on a map and orienting themselves through a land navigation course. On the third day of the exercise, confidence and teamwork grew by participating in the Beaudoin Obstacle Course and familiarization flights on UH-60 Black Hawks. The final day of the exercise included a ruck march to Burcham Urban Assault Course where small unit tactics training was conducted.

"This exercise was a fantastic opportunity for the members of the 100th Division to plan, prepare, and execute an outstanding series of training events that simply could not have been possible without a superb effort from our HHC members and collaboration with partners across the Fort Knox enterprise,” said Brig. Gen. Aaron Walter, commanding general, 100th Training Division (LD). "It is always great to see Soldiers in training, and this training Operation was simply outstanding for all who participated."

The 100th Infantry Division was first established in 1918 at Camp Bowie, Texas, and is best known for its victories during WWII. Operation Pinky was named after Lt. Gen. Withers A. Burress, commanding general, 100th Infantry Division (1942-1945). 

“With Operation Pinky, we set out to pay homage to the 100th Division’s origin during World War II,” said Militello. “It is imperative that each Soldier be proficiently trained and ready to engage our adversaries at any time, regardless of occupational specialty, rank, or unit.”

Soldiers of the 100th Division have contributed to combat, institutional training, operational support, and leader development. As the Execution Agent for Leader Training in the Army Reserve, the 100th Training Division (LD) provides an education, training, and experience framework to develop leaders to succeed in anticipated operational environments. 

For more information, follow the division on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/100thTD/ or go to https://www.usar.army.mil/80thTC/100thTD/.