PSYOP stakes challenges Grissom's reserve Soldiers Published Oct. 3, 2011 By Senior Airman Jami K. Lancette 434th ARW Public Affairs GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind. -- Tactical psychological operations Soldiers rigorously train every year to be prepared for anything at a moment's notice. This year marks the second year that the 316th Tactical PSYOP Company here has held a two-day, in-depth training competition. The stakes measure where the soldiers are tactically; as well as prepares them for future deployments. "I think it's a good gauge to determine where they are at and to focus on different types of mission training to determine training needs," said 1st Sgt. Nick Moore, 316th Tactical PSYOP trainer. Day one of training kicked off with analyzing where the soldiers were physically. They were put through a full physical training test, including timed push-ups, sit-ups, two-mile run and pull-ups. Following the grueling PT test the soldiers made their way to the firing range at the Indiana State Police Post in Peru, Ind., to test their ability to shoot accurately and maintain their weapons. And, if the day wasn't demanding enough, the Soldiers ended the day's events by going on a 10-mile ruck march at Nickel Plate Trail in Bunker Hill, Ind. Each three to four-man team roughed it with two 35-pound packs and one 55-pound pack during the timed march. Day two, the Soldiers hit the ground running, testing their knowledge in single channel ground and airborne radio systems, using manpack portable speakers and defense advanced global positioning device receivers. During the exercise the PSYOP Soldiers were also tested on their ability to use night vision systems and administer first aid. During the next activity the Army reservists conducted a source, content, audience, media and effect analysis on propaganda found from simulated enemy sources. Following up the SCAME, the Soldiers completed a situation report on the information they gathered in the previous exercise. Ending the strenuous stakes, the Soldiers took a final written test in Soldier PSYOP skills. "The purpose of the training is first and foremost to build team cohesion," said Staff Sgt. Christopher Deisler, 316th Tactical PSYOP alpha team chief. "It definitely keeps you more in task, it gives you a good idea the teams strengths and weaknesses and where to sharpen those up." Grissom is not only home to the 316th Tactical PSYOP Company, but also the 434th Air Refueling Wing, the largest KC-135R Stratotanker unit in the Air Force Reserve Command. Stay connected with the 434th ARW on Facebook and Twitter.
