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JTFEX Expands EOD Group 1, NCWS 5 Training Skills

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS061114-04
Release Date: 11/14/2006 8:36:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jose R. Rolon, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific

CHINA LAKE, Calif. (NNS) -- More than 80 active-duty and Reserve Sailors from two commands under Naval Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) set up camp in preparation for a Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) here Nov. 6-16.

The JTFEX simulates combat conditions in desert terrain, preparing Sailors for future deployments to combat zones. The exercise allows the two commands, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Group 1 and Naval Coastal Warfare Squadron (NCWS) 5 from Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, Calif., to sharpen skill sets and improve interoperability.

“We are bringing Sailors in here from various parts of the NECC enterprise, and they have various levels of expertise and experience in combat skills,” said Cmdr. Clark Nichols, chief staff officer with EOD Group 1. ”What we are looking for first of all is to provide a baseline across the enterprise, and there will be more advance skills training down the line.”

In January, the NECC brought EOD, Naval Coastal Warfare, Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support functions and Seabees together under one umbrella. NECC integrates all warfighting requirements for expeditionary combat and combat support elements. This transformation allows for standardized training, manning, and equipping of Sailors who will participate in the global war on terrorism as part of the joint force. It also results in a more capable, responsive and effective expeditionary Sailors.

The emphasis for EOD Group 1 and NCWS 5 during their JTFEX is to focus on their communication skill sets.

“The community was split into separate groups before, which caused a lot of miscommunications concerning missions,” said Chief Hospital Corpsman (FMF) Michael Barnhart attached to Naval Coastal Warfare Squadron NCWS Group 5. “NECC helps us by being able to keep a closer look environmentally and keep the skill sets in the community.”

JTFEX is the second time NECC units conducted integrated operations on the west coast, allowing units to train under a unified command and control structure.

“One of the big parts of the JTFEX is getting more understanding on how to work with each other in the fleet or in the war zone," said Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Andrew Shepperd, attached to EOD Group 1. "Exercises like this expand our capabilities for a better interaction with the Army and Marine Corps.”