An Cosantóir

September 2016

An Cosantóir the official magazine of the Irish Defence Forces and Reserve Defence Forces.

Issue link: https://digital.jmpublishing.ie/i/720804

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www.military.ie the defence forces magazine | 9 by PTE DOMINIC WILLIAMS, RDF 7 INF BN PhotoS by PTE PAUL MAGEE, RDF 7 INF BN R DF Range Weekend took place on 28th - 29th May 2016 in tIS Kilbride Camp. this range weekend was a learn- ing experience for me, as it was my first time being mounted on guard duty and to be trusted with the security for the range. While on security duty I gained a new perspective on just how well the RDF conducts its training operations. Sometimes it is easy to overlook just how well organised and timed each task is carried out, especially when you are directly taking part in the task or operation. During my shift it became evident just how precise each task was carried out. From unloading supplies and organising firing details to preparing meals - each task was carried out with precision and attention to detail. With weapon safety being the priority, everyone on the range or in the butts wore full body armour and helmets. Everyone present in the noise danger area wore his or her hearing protection. Personal were divided into groups of ten to fire their annual range practices (ARPs). Initially everyone fired grouping shots at the 100-meter range to zero their weapons. All firers under the supervision of the range manager also carried out the custom- ary 'make safe' procedure after firing. Following this they moved back to the 300-meter mark to start their range table. Upon completing this, the firers made their weapons safe and ad- vanced to the 200-meter range in a skirmish line, taking care no one was ahead of anyone else. This method was repeated to the 100-meter range. Attention to detail was replicated again when we were preparing to leave Kilbride Camp. Work parties were organ- ised to clean the barracks and range, so that when we lef t it would be in the meticulous condition that we received it in. Following the handover of the barracks we checked and double-checked to ensure no equipment would be lef t behind. The weekend was a success with all the required personal having the opportunity to fire their personal weapons.

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