San Diego -- Throughout history, wars, tactics and weapons have changed tremendously. Recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have re-introduced a cheap, but effective, weapon that has impacted troops deployed overseas. Improvised Explosive Devices have been among the most lethal and toughest obstacles to overcome in the combat theater. Education on this weapon is now integrated in recruit training.
In order to understand IEDs, recruits of Company G, 2nd Recruit Training Battalion, ran through the Crucible Improvised Explosive Device Lane at Edson Range aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., June 4.
The purpose of the Crucible IED lane is to introduce recruits to the wide variety of IEDs that are utilized overseas. According to the Department of Defense, the majority of casualties during combat operations overseas are from IED explosions. Training recruits to be aware of their surroundings has never been more critical.
“The Crucible IED lane familiarizes recruits with how to identify potential IEDs in country, how they look, and the different parts and items that are used to build them,” said Gunnery Sgt. Jose E. Gutierrez, senior drill instructor, Platoon 2142, Co. G, 2nd RTBn. “Recruits also go through a simulated IED explosion to experience getting hit while out on a patrol.”
Recruits face many challenges while attempting to navigate their way through the event. Paying special attention to trash and random objects on the side of the road is something few recruits have considered in their day-to-day life before joining the Marine Corps. Recruits must now realize the importance of recognizing the warning signs they learned during the event.
“Staying aware of the surroundings was tough because we’re used to seeing trash on the road, or for example, where I’m from people stack rocks on the side of the road all the time,” said Pfc. Joshua J. Dye, guide, Plt. 2142, Co. G, 2nd RTBn. “We need to re-wire our brain to be extra cautious and aware.”
During the event, an instructor escorts and monitors the recruit’s movements and decisions. After encountering various types of IEDs, recruits gather in a school circle and learn about the IED and proper identifications and procedures with each type.
“It’s critical to give recruits the education and familiarity of IEDs so they have the confidence to go out and identify an item that could be an IED,” said Gutierrez. “As with all purposes of recruit training, this event gives the recruits experience and also introduces them to what to expect in combat.”
One day at a time, recruits absorb knowledge that can save their life. Though the Crucible tests recruits on knowledge they have received throughout recruit training, events like the IED lane introduce recruits to the enemy’s weapon of choice. The experience and knowledge they gained will carry with them for the rest of their Marine Corps career.
“The IED lane was a good idea; we need to know what we’re up against,” said Dye. “I feel confident knowing what’s actually out there and my ability to recognize it.”