Students of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) participated in their first annual field exercise, March 23–26. The spring field exercise (FEX) is the culminating event of the year for Marine option midshipmen with the purpose of practical application of skills they have learned throughout the year, including training designed to improve their leadership, teamwork and combat readiness.
Training events took place around Oʻahu, including Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Marine Corps Training Area Bellows and Schofield Training Areas. Throughout the exercise, students worked together to complete each event, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in combat situations.
The exercise began with indoor marksmanship simulator training using both the M4A1 service rifle and SIG Sauer M18 pistol. Students were taught disassembly and assembly of weapons and honed their shooting skills in a safe and controlled environment, preparing them for the more intense training ahead.
Combat conditioning training followed, putting students through a series of rigorous exercises designed to build strength, stamina and resilience. From there, participants moved on to day and night land navigation, relying on map and compass skills to find their way through challenging terrain.
Perhaps the most challenging event of the exercise was the nine-mile conditioning march with a modified assault load. Students were required to carry full packs and rifles while navigating through steep terrain, pushing their physical and mental limits to the brink.
“The biggest takeaway from our Marine Option Spring FEX was that you know much more than you think and can perform much more than you’re capable of,” said Anthony Tirao, NROTC midshipman. “To succeed in the various events, I had to rely, most importantly, on teamwork both through communication and trust between myself and others. I, alongside other Marine Options, used these components to ensure that the instructions were clear and, most importantly, that we had each other’s back.”
“It was a privilege to see the Marine option students rise to the challenge and perform at an exemplary level. Their teamwork, leadership and determination were truly impressive and a testament to the values of the Marine Corps. I am confident that these students will go on to become exceptional leaders in the U.S. Marine Corps. It was an honor to work alongside them and witness their growth and development throughout this exercise,” said Capt. Grace Jenkins, Marine officer instructor.
Support from Hawaiʻi Marine infantries
The training showcased the importance of Hawaiʻi‘s strategic location for military training and highlighted the commitment of NROTC to ensure its students are prepared to serve as effective leaders in the U.S. Marine Corps.
“We could not have made this field exercise a success without the unparalleled support provided by fellow marines and sailors. The commitment and dedication of everyone involved were truly remarkable and inspiring to witness,” said Jenkins.
The NROTC spring field exercise was supported by Marine Forces Pacific Command, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment and 1st Battalion 12th Marines Artillery Battalion.
