By 1st Lt. Ben Sasaki
6-4 CAV targeting officer

FORT KNOX, Ky. – Soldiers from 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment have been participating in numerous small arms and heavy weapons ranges as part of their marksmanship density.

The training event has taken place during the last few weeks as part of the training phase to ensure soldiers hit what they aim at the first time and are confident with their weapons systems.

“Soldiers enjoyed the more advanced ranges such as the obstacle courses and combat stress shoots,” said Capt. Michael Hefti, the commander of B Troop. “The ranges not only signified an increased level of training, they also broke up the monotony and gave them confidence in their refined abilities. The stress shoots we are doing are the closest we can physically and mentally get soldiers to as far as simulated contact with the enemy.”

Everything from M9 pistols through MK19 automatic grenade launchers were fired with many tens of thousands of rounds expended. Troopers shot both day and night ranges to help them get more accurate and familiar with their weapons.

“We are on our way to becoming experts on hitting what we aim at,” said Capt. Jonathan Kennedy, commander of A Troop ”This will help us tremendously if we deploy.”

The 6-4 CAV soldiers who participated enjoyed the opportunity to hone their skills in all types of small arms weaponry.

“Soldiers were phenomenal on the range. They were extremely serious about the training, yet had fun,” said Hefti. “The combat veteran Specialists and younger NCOs were amazing in relaying their experiences to the newer soldiers while making them a part of the team.”

The commander of C Troop, Capt. Chad Chenoweth said while there are other essential tasks the cavalry soldiers must master before deploying, firing off their weapons is likely the most enjoyable.

“Cherokee soldiers seemed to enjoy the M4 Short Range Marksmanship range, July 24-25, the most out of all the ranges so far,” said Chenoweth. “Cherokee soldiers are working harder than they have since they returned from their last mission in Afghanistan, and will be prepared and ready for when the nation calls for their services again.”

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