MPs train with Army National Guard aviators Published Feb. 4, 2011 By Army Sgt. Tamika Dillard 3rd MEB PAO JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- For two weeks, Soldiers of the 164th Military Police Company, 793rd Military Police Battalion, 3rd Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, completed squad training to prepare for an upcoming deployment to Afghanistan. Much of the training centered around a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, piloted by the Alaska Army National Guard. The unit rehearsed loading and un-loading, securing landing zones, reacting to small arms fire and sniper attacks, roadside bombings and rocket propelled grenade attacks. It wasn't all flying in helicopters though. The Soldiers also marched more than 26 miles on foot patrols. "This training provides a realistic approach to real world events," said Sgt. 1st Class Lawrence Garcia, 164th Military Police, tactical operations sergeant. "You have to stay motivated. Motivation will get you through anything." On the last day of the exercise, after an eight-mile ruck march with three inches of snow beneath their boots, that motivation kept the Soldiers in tune with their mission. "The intent was to have the Soldiers worn out and disoriented by the time the Black Hawk arrived," Garcia said. As the Black Hawk landed, its rotors washed wind and snow over anyone and anything beneath it and the adrenaline started to kick into action. The Soldiers didn't know what to expect when they dismounted. "The snow was up to my thighs," said Army Staff Sgt. James Brown, 3rd Platoon, 164th MP Company. "I could barely walk through all of that snow. The MPs hit the ground rolling and established security and communication as they prepared to maneuver through the snow and icy training lanes. Brown called out to his Soldiers, "Before we enter the lanes, everyone take a knee and hydrate. Everyone keep your eyes and ears open." The training was good preparation for combat, according to one Soldier. "The best thing about the training is that the squad leaders can get the feel of their squads and lead them through combat safely," said Spc. Zachery Martinez, 545th Military Police Company, played the role of an insurgent during the training. "They learn what their weaknesses and strong points are so they can adjust fire." The event provided valuable training to the National Guard aviators as well, according to one MP officer. "Doing a combined mission with the Alaska National Guard and the 164th MP Co., takes coordination," said Army 1st Lt. Jared Budenski, Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 793rd Military Police Battalion. "Not only did the 164th complete their mission, but the Alaska National Guard assisted in completing their training requirements as well."