Page 38 - Bugle Issue 16 Autumn 2020

WO2 Howley trains the TOSCA
cohort in reaction shooting
6 RIFLES SHOOTING TEAM STEPS UP TO SUPPORT TOSCA MST
Despite the coronavirus pandemic, the Bn shooting team provided vital support to the troops deploying on Op TOSCA. Adapting the planned annual shooting team camp to a concentrated shooting package at short notice, the team was able to deliver ranges and coaching for four ACMTs and a Pistol training range for all 6 RIFLES troops (and attached arms) in the short time available.
Whilst the senior staff of the shooting team ran the ranges, undoubtedly the best effort came from the Rfn and JNCOs, who stepped up each not just to act as butts party and range sentries but rotated through coaching positions to provide much needed 1:1 insight into each firer’s technique. The fact that
all firers were able to pass their ACMT first or second-time on a very busy range was
WO2 Howley was able to bring his vast experience in pistol shooting to deliver a Glock 17 package which quickly trained firers in all aspects of CQM pistol shooting
largely down to the coaches’ commitment and knowledge.
In addition to 6 RIFLES, the team was also able to provide much-needed support to our Regular partners in 1 RIFLES, delivering a fully Reserve-led ACMT package to their junior soldiers. This led to the perhaps unusual sight of Reservists coaching and instructing their Regular counterparts in improving their shooting techniques. LCpl Powell, A Coy, was quick to demonstrate his marksmanship knowledge gained in the shooting team
to get several of the Regular Rfn onto their targets.
Finally, honourable mentions have to go to WO2 Howley and WO2 Jones, who both brought their unique experience to the week for massive benefit to those firing. WO2 Jones was quick to apply and demonstrate his MANTIS shooting analysis tool to quickly build ability in both novice and more experienced shooters, a piece of equipment that 1 RIFLES quickly decided they wanted
to obtain! WO2 Howley was able to bring his vast experience in pistol shooting to deliver a Glock 17 package which quickly trained firers in all aspects of CQM pistol shooting, then challenged them to complete a series of complex firing drills, enjoyed by all firers. All in, an excellent example of what the shooting team can provide for 6 RIFLES.
Lt Toby Fenton-O’Creevy
The MANTIS and shooting
coach system at work on Yoxter range
38 RIFLES The Bugle