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MSRON 7 Sharpens Operational, Defense Skills During Exercise

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100303-12
Release Date: 3/3/2010 3:36:00 PM

By Jesse Leon Guerrero, U.S. Naval Forces, Marianas Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 7 conducted a bi-annual Unit Level Training Assessment-Sustainment exercise Feb. 26 for operations certification at Orote triple helicopter pad at Naval Base Guam.

The five-day exercise included nearly 100 MSRON 7 Sailors protecting a campsite from simulated hostile forces.

"They're surpassing expectations with the things they're accomplishing out there," said Master-at-Arms 1st Class (EXW/SW) William Groomes, a Command Training Team member who helped coordinate the exercise.

Although MSRON 7 personnel maintained control of entry points along the perimeter of the camp with mounted machine guns and small arms, Groomes said participants had to show restraint through weapons discipline and the ability to escalate and de-escalate any use of force.

Groomes added that not all of the exercise's different scenarios were known by the personnel being tested so there was an element of surprise participants had to overcome.

"We work harder here," said Groomes. "That way when we go downfield, no matter what situation comes, we're ready to go."

Groomes said this exercise marked the first time MSRON 7 trained Detachments Delta and Echo, previously known as Detachments 711 and 712 respectively.

Aside from guarding the camp's controlled entry points, Sailors also trained on providing a protective service detail for distinguished service members and vehicle convoys.

Master-at-Arms 2nd Class (EXW) Todd Smith said his three years of experience and training with MSRON 7, combined with his previous service as a Marine, helped him during the exercise. While manning a heavy-barrel machine gun for cover fire, Smith said the exercises allow Sailors to support each other.

"I'm the first line of defense if they get overran," said Smith. "It is a good exercise."

About 20 Sailors from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1 also participated in the exercise, role-playing local militia. Chief Utilitiesman (SCW) James Masserang, of NMCB 1, said Seabees involved in this exercise benefited from the experience.

"While we're on island, we're mostly working on our construction skills, and this keeps our military skills sharp, too," said Masserang.

MSRON 7, commissioned in May 2004, provides rapidly deployable forces to conduct or support anti-terrorism and force protection missions. The squadron also promotes the Maritime Strategy by providing security for American citizens through the application of seapower and by strengthening partnerships with allied nations.