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.

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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 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.

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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 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.

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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 Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the eighty-first episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by COL Ricky Taylor, the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are the Commanding General and Division Command Sergeant Major of the 4th Infantry Division, MG David Doyle and CSM Alex Kupratty.

This episode was filmed on Veterans Day during a decisive action training environment rotation at the JRTC and aired on Thanksgiving Day. Veterans Day, celebrated annually on November 11, honors the service and sacrifices of all U.S. military veterans. The date reflects the historic moment of 11:00 AM on November 11, 1918, when the armistice ending World War I took effect—symbolizing peace after immense sacrifice. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was renamed in 1954 to recognize veterans from all conflicts. Veterans Day not only commemorates those who have served but also emphasizes the ongoing need for service to the nation. It serves as a reminder of the dedication required to protect freedom and the responsibility to support those who have borne the burden of safeguarding it.

The 4th Infantry Division, also known as the “Ivy Division,” has a distinguished history dating back to its establishment in 1917 during World War I. Its nickname and patch, featuring four ivy leaves arranged in the Roman numeral “IV,” symbolize tenacity and endurance, as ivy clings to any surface, just as the division perseveres in all missions. The division’s motto, “Steadfast & Loyal,” reflects its commitment to excellence and reliability in combat. Known by its call sign “Ivy,” the division has played pivotal roles in major conflicts, including the D-Day landings at Utah Beach during World War II, extensive combat operations in Vietnam, and deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, the 4th Infantry Division continues to serve as a premier mechanized infantry unit, exemplifying innovation and adaptability on the modern battlefield.

In this episode, we discuss critical preparations for large-scale combat operations, emphasizing the importance of mastering fundamental warfighting skills and leader development. The team highlighted the need for proficiency in combined arms maneuver, sustainment, and reconnaissance, while stressing a return to basics like fieldcraft, effective communication, and the disciplined use of warfighting functions. With the modern battlefield presenting challenges such as contested environments and the need for reduced electromagnetic signatures, the integration of multi-domain capabilities was identified as essential for mission success and survival in combat.

Leader development and training management were also prominent themes, with a focus on prioritizing training to build cohesive, resilient formations. The importance of equipping junior leaders to certify and lead their units was emphasized, particularly in addressing gaps caused by rapid promotions and personnel shortages. Prolonged field exercises were cited as effective for exposing soldiers to realistic combat conditions and building operational endurance. Additionally, we discussed adapting reconnaissance strategies to align with structural changes, encouraging creative task organization and leveraging tools like small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) to enhance situational awareness. These insights reflect a comprehensive approach to preparing for the complex demands of LSCO.

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.

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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 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.

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“The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

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.

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“The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the seventy-seventh episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the MAJ(P) Westly “West” LaFitte, the Brigade Executive Officer Observer-Coach-Trainer for Brigade Command & Control on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are two Small Group Leaders of the Maneuver Captain’s Career Course at the Maneuver Center of Excellence, CPT Matthew Dunn and CPT Jordan Scanlon.

The Maneuver Captains’ Career Course (MCCC or MC3), hosted by the Maneuver Center of Excellence at Fort Moore, Georgia, is a 22-week program designed primarily for U.S. Army infantry and armor officers, with participants also including U.S. Marine Corps captains and officers from allied nations. The course’s mission is to equip these officers with the skills necessary for effective company command and to fulfill tactical planning duties as battalion S-3 operations staff officers. MCCC has its roots in the former Infantry and Armor Officer Advanced Courses, which prepared captains for command and staff roles within their respective branches. Since 2008, MCCC has merged these curricula into a unified “maneuver” focus, reflecting the integrated requirements of modern warfare. The course is organized into three teams, each led by a senior major and divided into 12 seminars of about 15 officers, guided by a senior captain or major. Offered six times annually, MCCC runs three classes concurrently, supporting a student body of approximately 400 to 600 officers at any given time.

In this episode we discuss key insights into leadership and operational effectiveness at the company and platoon levels during large-scale combat operations. A primary lesson learned is the critical importance of adaptability and readiness within small-unit leadership, as the complex and dynamic battlefield environment demands quick decision-making under pressure. Platoon leaders and company commanders must develop autonomous decision-making skills and a strong understanding of the commander’s intent. This autonomy is essential, especially in scenarios where communication lines may be compromised by enemy electronic warfare efforts. Leaders must ensure that every soldier has a clear grasp of the mission objectives, allowing units to maintain operational effectiveness even when cut off from higher command.

This episode also underscores the importance of “brilliance in the basics,” particularly for foundational skills in movement, coordination, and logistics management. Small-unit leaders stressed that mastery of basic soldiering tasks, such as secure communication practices, tactical movement, and efficient resupply operations, is indispensable for sustaining momentum during prolonged engagements. Additionally, the integration of new assets, such as multifunctional reconnaissance elements and flexible support units, requires company and platoon leaders to be proficient in managing these resources effectively on the ground. These lessons underscore the need for platoon and company leaders to cultivate a blend of tactical proficiency and adaptability, ensuring that they can operate independently and sustain combat effectiveness across diverse and challenging LSCO environments.

Part of S03 “Lightfighter Lessons” series.

Note from the podcast team: This episode was filmed during the Maneuver Warfighter Conference in April 2024, so the audio and video quality maybe reduced due to filming in an expeditionary manner. MAJ(P) LaFitte has since been promoted to lieutenant colonel.

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.

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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 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.

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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 Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the seventy-sixth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Command Sergeant Major of Ops Group (CMOG), CSM Michael Hall. Today’s guest is MSG William Kocken, which is the Operations Sergeant Major for 2nd Battalion, 127th Infantry Regiment.

The 2nd Battalion, 127th Infantry Regiment of the Red Arrow Brigade, 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) of the Wisconsin Army National Guard, has a distinguished history of service. Known for its long-standing tradition of excellence in both state and national missions, the battalion’s motto, Les Terribles—meaning “The Terrible Ones”—reflects its fierce combat reputation earned during World War I. The Red Arrow Brigade, of which the 2-127th is a part, derives its name from its ability to pierce enemy lines during both world wars, symbolizing the unit’s strength and perseverance. They have the Hollywood call-sign of “Black Hats” (the BCT’s call-sign is “Red Arrow”), the nickname of “Wisconsin Volunteers,” and the brigade’s motto of “Forward.”

In this episode we discuss the lessons learned at the battalion echelon for conducting large scale combat operations across multiple domains, particularly in logistics, communications, and standards of discipline. One of the key takeaways was the challenge of maintaining efficient communication across dispersed units, especially during large-scale combat operations (LSCO). Unlike Active Duty forces, the Army National Guard (ARNG) faces unique difficulties in ensuring smooth, real-time communication, which became a critical area for improvement. Additionally, the exercise exposed gaps in logistical sustainment, as ARNG units struggled with coordinating supplies, equipment, and personnel over extended operations. This highlighted the need for more robust logistical planning and the importance of developing a deeper understanding of how to sustain operations in high-intensity environments.

Best practices that emerged from the rotation included a renewed emphasis on “brilliance in the basics” and reinforcing standards and discipline. The importance of mastering fundamental soldiering skills, such as maintaining noise and light discipline, digging proper fighting positions, and ensuring basic field craft, became apparent. Leaders realized that gaps in these areas could have serious consequences in LSCO, where the margin for error is small. The exercise also demonstrated that success depends on rigorous preparation and adhering to the most basic tasks, which in turn allows units to perform better in more complex and dynamic scenarios. Commanders stressed the importance of repetitive training in these foundational areas to ensure that soldiers can respond effectively in high-pressure situations and adapt to modern battlefield demands.

Part of S02 “If I Would Have Only Known” 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.

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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 Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the seventy-fifth 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 Brigade Commander for 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), COL James Stultz.

The 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), which was activated on 1 July 1941 at Ft. Benning (now Ft. Moore), GA. The MBCT draws its infantry battalions primarily from the 502nd Parachute Infantry Regiment. 2nd MBCT is the Army’s first mobile BCT construct. As their designation implies, they’re focused on increasing a brigade’s overall mobility and with it the agility and flexibility that it provides. They have the Hollywood call-sign of “Strike,” but commonly called “Five oh Duece,” and the motto of “Strike.” (The rest of the motto is “I fight where I am told, and win where I fight.”) They are easily identified by the black heart patches on their helmets dating back to preparation for the invasion of France in World War II and have been known by the enemy as the “Black Hearts Brigade.”

In this episode, we discuss several emerging key lessons, particularly regarding the importance of Transition in Contact (TiC) and the evolving nature of command and control (C2Fix). TiC was highlighted as a critical skill, requiring seamless coordination between the brigade and its multifunctional reconnaissance companies (MFRC) and multi-purpose companies (MPCs), which replaced the traditional anti-tank and heavy weapons companies. These units provided vital intelligence and protection in the deep area, using scout snipers, electronic warfare sections, and anti-air capabilities. However, there were challenges in maintaining a balance between reconnaissance and target acquisition, illustrating the need for constant refinement in how these specialized companies are employed. The introduction of the MFRC and other multifunctional units demonstrated the Army’s shift towards more flexible, mobile brigades capable of long-range operations, especially through the use of large-scale air assaults (L2A2).

In addition to TiC, the exercise reinforced the importance of mastering logistics and communications across multiple domains to support Army modernization efforts. Logistics played a critical role in enabling mobility, especially as light infantry units integrated vehicles like the infantry squad vehicle (ISV), providing new tactical opportunities but requiring extensive training. Effective communications were essential for synchronizing complex operations, particularly in the context of C2Fix, where brigades aimed to reduce their physical footprint and rely more on higher echelons for intelligence processing. Mastery of “brilliance in the basics,” such as security, camouflage, and decentralized command structures, proved essential in navigating these transitions and ensuring brigade effectiveness in large-scale combat operations (LSCO). These insights provide a roadmap for future improvements in integrating modern capabilities while maintaining a focus on foundational warfighting skills.

Part of S02 “If I Would Have Only Known” 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.

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“The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.