MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- The Security Assistance Liaison Team executed scenario-based realistic training for Operation Resolute Support.
“The SALT itself is running through a couple scenarios such as improvised explosive devices, enemy caches, and general support of collation forces in order to get them on track with tactics and maneuvers,” said Sgt. John Karol, the fire-power control team chief with 2nd ANGLICO.
The Marines focused on their ability to provide fire-support capabilities critical to coalition units.
“Our main purpose is to provide Marine Corps assets to coalition partners,” said Capt. Brett Erquitt, the fire-support officer for one of the teams with 2nd ANGLICO. “Many countries have those assets themselves but many don’t, so having a Marine Corps air asset in support of a coalition is quite a force multiplier.”
SALT is small and building up to a strong team with the help of the Marines currently within it.
“It’s the reality of man-power,” Erquitt said. “What guys have the legs to make it through the long work-up process and have the maturity to be able to function with very little supervision from either staff noncommissioned officers or commissioned officers. We need strong NCO’s, and that’s what we’re looking for.”