Cadets complete field training at Indian Springs

Dick Benoit

Thursday, Nov. 29, 2001 | 8:30 a.m.

Army ROTC cadets from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and Community College of Southern Nevada recently completed their semi-annual field training at Nellis Air Force Base's Silver Flag Alpha training site near Indian Springs.

The unit, known as Coyote Co., consisted of 41 cadets from CCSN and UNLV, according to the detachment spokeswoman, Cadet Capt. Meia Lopez. They joined their counterparts from the University of Nevada, Reno for three days to participated in leadership exercises designed to train future Army officers.

Training began each day at 5 a.m. Squad team activities included an obstacle course, rappeling off a 40-foot tower, qualifying with an M-16 rifle and other confidence and performance-oriented leadership challenges.

Third-year cadets in the program are evaluated for leadership ability during the exercise.

UNLV juniors who filled the cadet leadership positions of company commander, executive officer, first sergeant and squad leader were Andrea Martinez, David Hager, Norman Lundt, Jasmine Stevenson, Steve Penefiel, Chris Coles and Richard Nazerano.

Clark graduate completes training

Army National Guard 2nd Lt. David Fish, Clark High School class of 1984, recently completed the armor officer basic course at Fort Knox, Ky.

Fish, the son of Sarah Murphy of Las Vegas, trained in performing the duties of tank, cavalry, and reconnaissance vehicle platoon leaders including command and control of armor or combined arms units from front forces in mobile land combat.

The course emphasizes mobility and firepower by training soldiers to fight on the modern battlefield using the latest arsenal of armored vehicles. Armor training includes instruction in automotive principles and maintenance, communications, weapons and tactics.

Fish earned a master's degree in 2000 from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix.

In brief

During the nine weeks of training, Shields received instruction in drill and ceremony, marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military justice system, fitness, first aid and Army traditions.

During the six weeks of training, the new airman learned the Air Force mission, organization and customs, drill and ceremony, and received physical training and training in human relations.

In addition, he earned credits toward an associate's degree through the Community College of the Air Force.