Inside the Training of America’s Field Artillery Soldiers: A Glimpse into Fort Sill

Standby: The Battlefield Challenge of 880,000 Rounds a Year 🚀

In the heart of Oklahoma, 880,000 rounds are fired onto the hills each year, creating a striking display of firepower and devastation. When wielding the “king of battle,” these soldiers face the colossal task of carrying and firing rounds that can weigh up to 100 lbs. This strenuous activity is integral to their role, especially when the situation demands quick and precise artillery bombardment anywhere, anytime.

Historical Backbone: The Evolution of Howitzers 🏰

First used in the 17th century, howitzers remain the most common field artillery weapon today. These cannons have been significantly beneficial for Ukraine’s Army as it counters the Russian forces. With a striking capability of up to 20 miles, howitzers play a critical role in modern warfare. However, the soldiers operating these cannons often grapple with the risk of traumatic brain injury due to the firing blasts.

Training Grounds: Fort Sill, Oklahoma 🌄

Spanning over 93,000 acres, Fort Sill, located 90 miles from Oklahoma City, has been a premier training installation for field artillery soldiers for over a century. Each year, around 10,000 soldiers graduate from Fort Sill, ready to be stationed at various posts across the US and globally.

The Rigorous Training Regimen 💪

Training at Fort Sill is intensive and physical. In their fourth week, Cannon crew members, known as 13 Bravos, engage in weight-intensive exercises, lifting rounds like the 155 mm round at 96 lbs, and the lighter 105 mm round. The training escalates in intensity with the addition of more equipment and increased speed requirements, often firing at a rate of two rounds per minute.

The Skillful Mastery of Different Howitzers 🔧

Across five weeks, soldiers learn to operate and fire the Army’s three main howitzers:

• M119A3 – Light and mobile.
• M777A2 – Towed artillery used in conflicts such as Afghanistan and Ukraine.
• M109A6/A7 Paladin – Self-propelled artillery that doesn’t require additional towing equipment.

The Perils and Protections of Artillery Blast Exposure 🧠

Shooting powerful howitzers exposes soldiers to blast overpressure, posing risks of traumatic brain injuries. A study funded by the Defense Health Agency in 2016 found evidence of brain scarring from such blasts, leading to a range of neurological disorders like insomnia, anxiety, memory impairment, and more.

Protective Measures and Their Efficacy 🪖

Field artillery soldiers wear Advanced Combat Helmets (ACH) for protection. While helmets have historically evolved to protect against modern threats, they are not specifically designed to safeguard against blast exposure. According to experts, there is a need for helmets engineered to mitigate the impacts of such blasts.

Precision Firing: The Role of Forward Observers 🎯

Forward observers, known as the ‘eyes of field artillery,’ oversee the terrain, collect intelligence, and provide targeting data to artillery units. They ensure rounds land precisely on targets with detailed descriptions and adjustments.

A Real-World Test 💥

During their final tests at the observation post, trainees perform live call-for-fire missions using live rounds. Accurate data transmission and rapid execution are critical, emphasizing that practice is crucial for real combat scenarios.

Breaking Gender Barriers: Women in Combat Roles 👩‍🚀

Fort Sill’s artillery training includes dedicated female soldiers, like a 38-year-old domestic violence detective aiming to inspire young women to join and excel in combat roles. Despite the heavy male dominance in the field, collaborative teamwork bridges the gap, proving that determination and a positive mindset are vital for success.

The Brains Behind the Fire: Fire Control Specialists 🧮

Known as 13 Juliets, these specialists generate targets and direct artillery fire using advanced mathematical and computational skills. They ensure every round lands accurately while coordinating with forward observers and radar operators.

Advanced Technologies in Artillery Radar Systems 🛰️

Radar operators (13 Romeos) use sophisticated radar systems to track enemy artillery and transmit data to fire control specialists, who then plan and execute fire missions with precision.

Mighty MLRS: Multiple Launch Rocket Systems 🚀

MLRS operators, or 13 Mikes, handle the formidable M270 A2 systems that execute long-range rocket and missile launch operations. Their extensive training includes vehicle inspections and hands-on practice to ensure proficiency and reliability in the field.

Graduation: From Trainees to Full-fledged Soldiers 🎓

Completing advanced individual training is a milestone for these soldiers, showcasing their hard-earned skills and readiness for deployment. Physical endurance, mental resilience, and teamwork culminate in their ability to perform under pressure and deliver accurate fire support.

Final Words: The Importance of Constant Improvement 📈

The military strives to mitigate the risks associated with blast exposure by adhering to standards, revising firing limits, and integrating new technologies. Continuous adaptation ensures soldiers are better protected and capable of serving effectively in high-stress environments.