FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Cpl. Josh Webb, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, assists an Army advocate, commonly known as a Center of Influence, Jan. 5 at the San Antonio Gun Club. The COIs were invited guests of the Army and took part in the festivities leading up to the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Shotgun team started off the New Year in Texas displaying their skills as part of the week’s long worth of activities leading up to the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Jan. 3-7.

The team hosted dozens of civilian Army advocates, commonly known as Centers of Influence, at the San Antonio Gun Club. COIs guide young people down the right path towards their future and provide them with all of the information that the Army and ROTC offer our nation’s youth.

“The COIs are some of the most influential people students, juniors and those thinking about their future look to for advice and guidance,” said Cpl. Josh Webb. “It’s important that we display the professionalism of the Soldier so these influencers can go back to their local areas and provide all of the answers to the questions those contemplating a future with the military are asking.”

First-time and experienced shotgun shooters received instruction from USAMU Soldiers, including 2008 Olympic Gold Medalists Sgt. Glenn Eller and Sgt. Vincent Hancock. Soldiers urged the importance of safety and assisted them in establishing a proper firing position before allowing the spectators the opportunity to pull the trigger and have some fun on the range.

“It was very cool,” said Pete Anders, the Chief of Police at Millersville University, Pa. “They asked me what I did for a living and knew that I have shot a lot of targets, but this was a different style of shooting. I got a rhythm going but lost it before the friendly competition they had for us. They were fantastic instructors.”

Staff Sgt. Josh Richmond, already a qualifier for the 2012 Olympic Games, and Staff Sgt. Mark Weeks performed their jaw-dropping shotgun demonstration, blasting everything from six or seven clay targets at a time to heads of lettuce, tomatoes and shaving cream out of the sky.

Amid the demo and clay pigeon shooting under the direction of Olympic Champions, Anders’ said that his long-standing appreciation for the Army grew even fonder.

“I continue to be impressed with the great young men and women of America and that is just reinforced by coming down here,” he said. “Going to see some of the wounded warriors, with their spirit and drive to continue on, is humbling.

“In talking to these guys from the USAMU, they showed us what they are teaching those headed over to combat, and it’s awesome. It’s a statement of America-we’re in good shape.”

While training the war fighter, researching and developing new weapons initiatives, and competing at the highest levels are the foundations that distinct the USAMU from other units in the military, Soldiers understand how important their reach into communities across the country is to Army accessions.

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Staff Sgt's Josh Richmond and Mark Weeks, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, perform a shotgun demonstration Jan. 5 at the San Antonio Gun Club. The USAMU hosted dozens of civilians from around the country as part of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Week festivities. Besides the demo, Soldiers assisted civilians on the firing line, providing instruction to experienced and first-time shotgun shooters.(Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

“It’s really simple-recruiting and accessions enhance the combat readiness of our Army,” Webb said. “Who knows when we may help recruit the next great leader, Olympian, or war fighter and ensure that our future Army is as strong as it is today?”

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Col. (P) Walter Piatt (left), commandant, U.S. Army Infantry School, attaches the Army Superior Unit Award streamer to the colors of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit Jan. 28 as Lt. Col. Dan Hodne (right), commander, USAMU, looks on. The Army awarded the ASUA to the USAMU for distinguishing itself for extraordinary accomplishments in raising the Army's overall combat readiness through outstanding devotion and superior performance in executing its wide-ranging mission.(Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- Even for the “Home of Champions,” the Army’s prestigious Marksmanship Unit where achieving the highest degrees of sustained excellence is expected, 2010 proved to be a year like no other, marked by historic firsts and bests.

Volunteering to embark upon its first sustained deployment of unit personnel since Vietnam and its first effort to train indigenous Soldiers; greatly expanding its marksmanship training program; and showcasing the very best of Army Soldier skills at unprecedented levels in marksmanship competition, winning an unparalleled 27 championship titles in world, national, and interservice matches are just some of the accomplishments made by the Soldiers of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit in 2010, earning the Army Superior Unit Award, a first for one of the military’s most unique units.

“This unit has made a profound and lasting impact on the readiness of the war fighter,” said Col. (P) Walter Piatt, commandant, U.S. Army Infantry School. “In earning the Superior Unit Award, it reflects the readiness and relevancy that the (USAMU) brings to the Army. The contributions of this generation of Soldiers in our Army in Iraq and Afghanistan and their success have been in large part due to this unit and how they have instilled readiness throughout our force.”

The unit distinguished itself for extraordinary accomplishments in raising the Army’s overall combat readiness through outstanding devotion and superior performance in executing its wide-ranging mission. 2010 also saw a continuation of its nearly half-century tradition of leaving its stamp on the Army’s precision long-range small arms. With its proven track record of the M21 and M24 sniper rifles, the USAMU Custom Firearms Shop enabled its rapid provision of technical and user evaluation feedback that assisted the Army in adopting a new sniper weapon system capability.

Its Squad Designated Marksman Rifle emerged as the unanimous top choice during the Maneuver Center of Excellence Rifleman Configuration Study. To add to these achievements, the unit coached, mentored, and produced the 2010 Army Soldier of the Year, who also served as the Army’s first-ever female Soldier to earn this prestigious title.

“This unit’s efforts to obtain the highest degrees of precision and accuracy in world-class marksmanship competition directly translate to our efforts in raising Army marksmanship proficiency and supporting broader Army small-arms research and development initiatives,” noted Lt. Col. Dan Hodne, USAMU Commander. “When it comes to all aspects of marksmanship, our Army needs and expects us to be the absolute best in the world.” The unit continues to aspire to new heights and expectations. In 2011, the USAMU hosted the first International Paralympic Committee World Cup to ever take place in the entire Western Hemisphere that brought hundreds of Paralympic athletes from around the world to Fort Benning to showcase courage, determination, inspiration and equality in shooting sports.

Earlier in the year, the unit hosted its second consecutive World Cup in two years which stood as the largest international shooting sports event to ever take place on the continent as dozens of shooters earned coveted quota slots to the 2012 Olympic Games. By dramatically expanding its marksmanship training outreach, the unit established itself as a primary source and main proponent for marksmanship training in the Army.

In 2012, the unit looks to take it a step even farther. In Afghanistan, the unit is prepared to assist in the creation of the Afghan National Army Marksmanship Instructor Branch. A handful of Soldiers will represent the unit, the Army and their country at the Summer Olympic Games in London followed by the very first active-duty Soldier to ever compete in the Paralympic Games.

In March, the unit will host the annual U.S. Army Small Arms Championship, the premier marksmanship training event in the military, and the inaugural Army Strong Collegiate Shooting Championships. The USAMU intends to make this innovative event the largest multi-discipline, shoulder-to-shoulder collegiate and junior shooting sports championship event to ever take place in the United States as it brings four prestigious competitive shooting sports championship venues to the USAMU’s world-class facilities simultaneously.

In addition to the increasing number of Soldiers it will train in 2012 the USAMU is preparing to welcome 24 new members to the family with the creation of the Wounded Warrior marksmanship instructor group and Paralympic section upon approval by Army headquarters as part of the “Total Army Analysis.” This novel approach to giving the Army’s wounded combat veterans a chance to continue to serve will enhance the combat readiness of the Army, highlight the notion of ability rather than disability, and serve as an inspiration for those who relish the chance to continue service to their country as a Soldier.

“I am grateful to the Army for bestowing the Army Superior Unit Award on this extraordinary unit made up of remarkable people,” concluded Hodne, “I am even more grateful for the opportunity to serve with such an incredible team of Soldiers, Civilians, and Family members who enable this unit to accomplish its wide-ranging mission in a manner and with a strength like no other.”

About USAMU:
The USAMU enhances the Army’s recruiting effort, raises the standard of the Army’s marksmanship proficiency, and supports the Army’s small arms research and development initiatives in order to raise the Army’s overall combat readiness. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com.

SureFire Tactical Lights

Fountain Valley, CA --(Ammoland.com)- SureFire, LLC, manufacturer of high-end illumination tools and tactical products, has been awarded its largest suppressor contract to date.

The $23.3 million contract, for an indefinite quantity of sound suppressors, suppressor adapters, blank firing adapters and training adapters, was awarded by officials of the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division—the pri- mary solicitation center for U.S. Special Operations Command—as part of the Family of Muzzle Brake Suppressors (FMBS) contract.

The FMBS solicitation was the most comprehensive modern suppressor evaluation conducted by the U.S. military to date. It focused on criteria that subjected suppressor systems to prolonged testing on a variety of firearms platforms.

SureFire suppressors were chosen based on test criteria such as: Reliability, Sound Reduction, Accuracy, Point of Impact Shift, Endurance/Durability, and Op- erational Suitability. While these requirements reflect the suppression needs for firearms including the MK13 sniper rifle, the United States Marine Corps is already employing SureFire’s FA762SS suppressor system on every M40A5 sniper rifle.

“From day one, SureFire’s commitment has been to increase the safety and success of the war fighter and peacekeeper by develop- ing products that exceed the standards for performance and quality,” said Barry Dueck, Director of SureFire’s Suppressor Division.

“Our suppressors are no exception. We build these to enhance the operational capabilities of our customers, knowing that their lives often depend on their equipment, and we’re very pleased that USSOCOM will now have multiple models available to improve their operational effectiveness.”

In 2001, the U.S. Department of Defense used the term “Signature Reduction” as a working concept mandated by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to focus on reducing the environmental sound, flash, and dust signatures produced by a firearm.

So when SureFire launched its suppressor division in 2002, they focused on the Total Signature Reduction (TSR) of a suppressed firearm. TSR not only addresses the environmental signatures, but other key performance attributes such as point of impact shift (POI) and repeatability, which historically were deprioritized in favor of sound reduction. SureFire became the first manufacturer to address POI shift as a primary concern and did so without degrading attributes like sound reduction and accuracy.

Most suppressors cause a shift in a weapon’s POI when attached or detached, requiring the operator to re-zero the weapon every time. With a SureFire Suppressor, the Fast-Attach mechanism locks the suppressor onto the firearm in the same position every time, producing a negligible, repeatable POI shift, if any at all.

And SureFire Suppressors are as durable as the barrels they’re mounted on, making fulltime suppressor use not only preferable but practical.

USSOCOM Family of Muzzle Brake Suppressors Contract Awarded to SureFire

The SureFire product selected for the FBMS contract is:

• For the SOCOM M4/CQBR firearm: FH556-215A adapter & FA556-212-DE suppressor
• For the SOCOM M4/CQBR firearm training and blank firing: BFA-FA556-212 & TA-FA556-212
• For the SOCOM MK13 firearm: FH762K05 adapter & FA762K-DE suppressor
• For the SOCOM MK13 firearm training and blank firing: BFA-FA762K & TA-FA762K

• For more information on the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, visit www.navsea.navy.mil/nswc/crane/default.aspx.
• To learn more about SureFire and their family of TSR suppressor systems, visit www.surefire.com/suppressors

About SureFire
Located in Fountain Valley, California, SureFire is a leading manufacturer of high-performance flashlights, weapon-mounted lights, and other tactical equipment for those who go in harm’s way, or anyone who demands the ultimate in quality, innovation, and performance. SureFire illumination tools are used by more SWAT teams and elite special operations groups than any other brand. SureFire is an ISO 9001:2000-certified company. Visit: www.surefire.com

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- A student from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology competes at the 2011 NRA Intercollegiate Pistol Championships at the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. The inaugural Army Strong Collegiate Shooting Championships will take place March 13-18, drawing the top college and junior shooters from the entire country competing in four distinct championships: the National Rifle Association Intercollegiate Pistol Championships; the NRA Intercollegiate Rifle Club Championship; the Scholastic Steel Challenge Collegiate Championship; and the Scholastic Clay Target Program Challenge. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit is excited to announce that the inaugural Army Strong Collegiate Shooting Championships, on course to be the biggest multiple-discipline, shoulder-to-shoulder gathering of collegiate and junior shooters in the history of competitive shooting, will commence next March 13-18 here at Fort Benning.

The dynamic format will draw the top college and junior shooters from the entire country competing in four distinct championships: the National Rifle Association Intercollegiate Pistol Championships; the NRA Intercollegiate Rifle Club Championship; the Scholastic Steel Challenge Collegiate Championship; and the Scholastic Clay Target Program Challenge.

“The USAMU, home to the absolute best marksman, marksmanship instructors, and gunsmiths in the world, is the ideal location to hold this ground-breaking Army Strong Collegiate Shooting Championships,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne, commander, USAMU. “Our newest generation of collegiate champions across multiple shooting disciplines will earn their titles at the ‘Home of Champions.’”

Hosting the most prestigious of matches has become as synonymous to the “Home of Champions” as winning national and world championships. A number of world-class championships have been held on the ranges of the USAMU in the past few years, including two International Shooting Sports Federation World Cups (this past year’s event being the largest international shooting sports event to ever take place in North America,) USA Shooting National Rifle and Pistol Championships, the annual U.S. Small Arms Championships, and countless JROTC, collegiate and regional championships. The USAMU aims to make this an annual event.

The ASCSC is designed to connect the Army with and promote youth and collegiate shooting sports. It aligns directly with the youth and collegiate shooting programs of the NRA Competitive Shooting Division, SSC, and SCTP, which all foster junior and collegiate participation in prestigious competitions while promoting firearms safety. The USAMU connects to America’s youth through teaching, coaching, and mentoring junior shooters throughout the year, and Soldiers make ideal mentors and role models for our nation’s youth. In these respects, the Army’s hosting of this event a perfect fit.

The ASCSC will be sandwiched around the electrifying Army Strong Experience, hosted by Maneuver Center of Excellence March 15-16. This event showcases the capabilities of the Army through demonstrations by an array of units on the Army post. Spectators can see the “Rangers in Action” demo, featuring the abilities of the world’s most advanced infantry Soldiers, or the “shock-and-awe” of the Hands-on Training Exercise (HOTEX), which shows off the lethality of some of the Army’s mechanized and armored forces.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to witness the “Airborne 5000″ demonstration and Fort Benning Silver Wings Skydiving exhibition, and the jaw-dropping shooting demonstration performed by members of the USAMU Shotgun platoon. The Army Adventure Semi, a culmination of hands-on and interactive systems, will also be on hand enabling the public to get a glimpse of what it’s like to be a tank crew member, an Apache pilot, or an explosive ordnance disposal team member, among others.

“The USAMU is grateful to the Maneuver Center of Excellence and Fort Benning for teaming up with us in connecting America’s Army to America’s people in a powerful way through the Army Strong Experience,” Hodne concluded. “There is no better way to showcase our Army and let our fellow citizens experience and witness ‘a Strength like no other’ than seeing our Soldiers in action. The positive Army impressions to be generated will last a lifetime.”

Check out www.usamu.com for information on the event and stay tuned for updates as the event draws closer.

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Ranger Instructors from the 4th Ranger Training Battalion helo-cast into Victory Pond during "Rangers in Action." The demonstration will take place March 16 as part of the 2012 Army Strong Experience.(Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU enhances the Army’s recruiting effort, raises the standard of the Army’s marksmanship proficiency, and supports the Army’s small arms research and development initiatives in order to raise the Army’s overall combat readiness. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com.

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. -- Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit won the coveted 10-man Interservice Team Rifle Championship during the 50th Interservice Rifle Championship. USAMU Soldiers win 18 out of 19 team and individual matches, proving once again that they are the premier marksmen in the entire military. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Service Rifle platoon dominated their fellow service members at the 50th Interservice Rifle Championships July 17-26, proving once again that the premier marksmen in the military serve in the Army.

Despite the determination of the other services to dethrone the defending champions, the Soldiers displayed their superior skills at the annual meeting of the military’s best rifle shooters, winning 18 out of 19 team and individual matches.

The USAMU won the coveted 10-man Interservice Rifle team championship match. Team shooters were Sgt. 1st Class Lance Dement, Sgt. 1st Class Grant Singley, Staff Sgt. Tyrel Cooper, Staff Sgt. Brandon Green, Staff Sgt. Joel Micholick, Staff Sgt. Daniel Peters, Sgt. Sherri Jo Gallagher, Spc. Kevin Trickett, Spc. Augustus Dunfey, and Spc. Amanda Elsenboss.

Coaches were Sgt. 1st Class Emil Praslick and Staff Sgt. Walter Craig, while Staff Sgt. Scott Grant Staff and Sgt. Nathan Verbickas were team captains. Cooper was the high individual shooter during the match with a score of 496-21x.

USAMU teams swept all team matches, including the Marine Corps Combat Development Command Commanding General Match, the Infantry Trophy Team Match, and the Interservice 1,000 yard Team Match.

Two USAMU Soldiers stood out individually at the championship. Cooper won his first overall championship after posting the high aggregate score for individual matches. He won the Navy match, Army match, the 1,000 yard match rifle, and the match rifle individual long-range championship to go along with his overall championship. He also won the Lt. Col. C.A. Reynolds Memorial Trophy for high score in the 10-man team match.

“This means a lot to me,” Cooper said, who returned from an Afghanistan deployment in April. “It’s my eighth year on the team and my first win. You’ve got a lot of guys here who have won it two or three times– it’s not easy.

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. -- Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit compete in the Marine Corps Infantry Trophy Team match July 26, one of several team matches won by the Army at the 50th Interservice Rifle Championship. Staff Sgt. Tyrel Cooper won the individual championship and the USAMU swept all team matches at the week-long event. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

The longest standing record at the match was broken by Micholick. He set a new match record in the 1,000 yard long range match with a service rifle, and also eclipsed a record that been held since 1984 by scoring a new high in the long-range aggregate with the service rifle after scoring a 397-12x.

“Staff Sgt. Micholick did not simply break a record, he crushed the longest standing record in the history of the Interservice Rifle Championships, which stood for nearly thirty years and in perhaps the most difficult match – the 1000-yard long range – with a service weapon,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne, commander, USAMU.

“I could not think of a more fitting time for one of our Soldiers to establish this new record than at the 50th iteration of this Interservice Rifle Championship.”

The Excellence-in-Competition Match was won by Staff Sgt. Armando Ayala. Green, Verbickas, Trickett and Gallagher also won individual matches. Gallagher was crowned high woman shooter.

With the overall win, the USAMU swept all individual and team championships in Interservice competition for 2011, the second consecutive year they have done so.

The competition, which dates back to 1960, when the value of Interservice marksmanship competition was recognized in a Memorandum of Understanding by the chiefs of each service, highlights the professional capacity and versatility of military service members. The 50th anniversary of the rifle championship is a significant milestone in the history of competitive marksmanship.

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. -- Staff Sgt. Tyrel Cooper, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, fires on target during the Marine Corps Infantry Trophy Team match July 26 at the 50th Interservice Rifle Championship. Cooper won his first overall individual championship and was a member of the Interservice Team Champions.(Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. -- Staff Sgt. Joel Micholick, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, fires his service rifle during the 50th Interservice Rifle Championship July 26. Micholick set a new match record in the 1,000 yard aggregate with the service rifle, a record that had been standing since 1984. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU enhances the Army’s recruiting effort, raises the standard of the Army’s marksmanship proficiency, and supports the Army’s small arms research and development initiatives in order to raise the Army’s overall combat readiness. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com.

Sgt. 1st Class Jason Sargent, 39, of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, passed away June 25th after a battle against terminal cancer. He was a decorated member of the Service Pistol team and his last assignment was as the noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the International Pistol team. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- The Fort Benning community said goodbye to one of its own Thursday.

In a ceremony at the Main Post chapel, Soldiers, Family members and civilians gathered to pay their final respects to Sgt. 1st Class Jason Sargent, who lost his courageous battle against a terminal illness June 25.

Sargent, 39, was a member of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit for more than five years. He was a decorated member of the Service Pistol platoon as a member of several championship teams and earned several accolades including the Distinguished Pistol Shot Badge and the President’s Hundred tab. He also was the lead instructor in numerous close quarters marksmanship training courses, which raised the combat readiness of thousands of Soldiers.

In 2010 he was named the noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the unit’s International Pistol platoon, tasked with preparing Soldiers in their pursuit of the 2012 Olympic Games while they simultaneously train Soldiers and showcase the Army.

“What I admired most about Jason was his caring leadership and his utmost consideration for others,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne, commander, USAMU. “I personally selected him to lead. He had the ability to draw the best out of people who already thought they were the best.”

Born in Bar Harbor, Maine, Sargent enlisted in the Army in 1993 after graduating from Ellsworth High School of Ellsworth, Maine, in 1990 and studying professional aeronautics at Embry Riddle University. His initial assignment was at Fort Rucker as an aerial observer with the 229th Attack Helicopter Regiment. He also served in Korea with the 2nd Infantry Division and at Fort Carson with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment before his first assignment with the USAMU. He served in the Army Reserves before returning to active duty and the USAMU in 2008.

In 2003, Sargent volunteered to serve a combat tour in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as the Combined Joint Task Force-180 CJ3 Aviation NCOIC.

Sargent, who loved to fly planes and was an avid golfer, leaves behind his wife Cindi and three sons: Nicholas, 15; Andrew, 13; and William, 5.

“Sgt. 1st Class Sargent was a true and loyal friend, and he loved his family more than anything,” said Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Wilson. “He would go out of his way to help you if you needed it. “He was a true ‘Mainer’-his goal was to retire back to Maine with his family.”

During his military career Sargent earned the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Army Commendation Medal, four Army Achievement Medals, three Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Overseas Deployment Ribbon, Aircraft Crewman Badge, Air Assault Badge, Distinguished Pistol Shot Badge and President’s Hundred Tab.

“Although his time on this Earth was cut short, his impact on each of us will last the rest of our lives,” Hodne concluded. “Let us live by Jason’s example, let us make each day count, and let us live with a sense of the profound impact we can all have on each other.”

Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit place the casket of Sgt. 1st Class Jason Sargent on a belt at Lawson Army Airfield in preparation for his final flight home to his native Maine. Sargent, 39, passed away June 25 after a courageous fight against a terminal illness. He is survived by his wife Cindi and three children: Nicholas, Andrew and William. (U.S. Army photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU enhances the Army’s recruiting effort, raises the standard of the Army’s marksmanship proficiency, and supports the Army’s small arms research and development initiatives in order to raise the Army’s overall combat readiness. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com.

CAMP PERRY, Ohio--Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit's service rifle team compete in the National Infantry Team Trophy match at the 2010 National Championships. The team dominated the field and took home the coveted team championship. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- For the “Home of Champions,” setting an unprecedented standard of excellence is no easy task.

Collectively, the Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit unwavering commitment to uphold its standard of excellence led to what may have been the unit’s most successful year ever since the unit’s inception in 1956 across all aspects of its wide-ranging mission.

USAMU’s mission is to enhance the Army’s recruiting effort, raise the standard of the Army’s marksmanship proficiency, and support the Army’s small arms research and development initiatives in order to raise the Army’s overall combat readiness.

In 2010, USAMU trained more Soldiers, played a crucial role in leading innovative small arms research and development initiatives, and put the very best of Army Soldier skills on display to an unmatched degree as the unit’s Soldiers won more world and national championships than ever before.

While the USAMU maintained a forward deployed presence throughout the entire year and established a successful and novel marksmanship instruction program for Afghan National Army soldiers, one of the most gratifying aspects of its commitment to the war may have been the unit’s role in the first-ever ANA female Officer Candidate School class. Sgt. 1st Class Janet Sokolowski volunteered to deploy to teach this inaugural class how to properly shoot the M9 pistol.

“It was the one of the most rewarding things I have ever been part of,” said Sokolowski. “The girls were like sponges. They realized the opportunity in front of them and listened to everything I told them. I wish I could have stayed longer.”

USAMU will continue to provide a persistent rotating presence or marksmanship training teams to Afghanistan for the foreseeable future. At home, the USAMU trained more than 4,000 Soldiers from Forces Command, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, and TRADOC on marksmanship fundamentals and techniques.

It hosted the highest-attended All-Army Small Arms Championship of all-time, enabling more than 300 Soldiers from across the force to receive premium training while competing in stressful situations. The unit also established a new combined Close Quarters Squad Designated Marksman class, which added to the slew of marksmanship programs offered to Soldiers and units as they improve their marksmanship techniques prior to deploying to combat.

The unit’s Custom Firearms Shop leveraged its expertise and facilities to improve weapon systems and ammunition, and provide rapid feedback to ongoing broader Army research and development projects. A highlight was maintaining the unit’s proud tradition of providing the Army with its precision long-range small arms.

“For nearly half a century, our Army and our Soldiers have benefitted from the experience and skills of the absolute best gunsmiths in the world – the gunsmiths of the USAMU Custom Firearms Shop,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne, commander, USAMU. “The M21, M24, M4 Designated Marksman Rifle, and M24 upgrade (M2010), were all developed and tested by the shop.”

The USAMU was paramount in the success of the Army adopting a new capability for our snipers with an upgrade to the M24. The ability to provide not only technical data but direct user feedback assisted with the development of requirements and product improvements which will allow Army snipers to successfully complete missions abroad.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a successful year without dominating in competition. In showcasing the Army, the unit set 32 national records, and won 28 first-place individual medals in world, national and interservice matches. Staff Sgt. Josh Richmond won the Gold Medal in Men’s Double Trap at the 50th International Shooting Sport Federation World Championships in Munch and was named USA Shooting’s Male Athlete of the Year for 2010.

Sgt. 1st Class Daryl Szarenski won two gold medals in World Cup competition, setting himself up for a possible spot on the 2012 U.S. Olympic team. USAMU Soldiers also earned the U.S. four country quota slots at the 2010 Olympics.

USAMU also hosted dozens of countries and international competitors during the 2010 ISSF World Cup USA. This event experienced so much success that the ISSF awarded a second consecutive World Cup to the United States for 2011, a rare occurrence. World Cup USA 2011 will come back to the USAMU and Fort Benning in May 2011.

The service rifle and service pistol teams swept every major team and individual award in 2010, a unit first. Staff Sgt. Robert Park was the individual Interservice pistol champion while Staff Sgt. Brandon Green won the Interservice rifle championship. That success continued at the National Matches in Camp Perry, Ohio when both teams won the coveted team championships.

“This unit fosters an environment of excellence, where in showcasing the Army and the best of Army Soldier skills in competition, winning is not our mission, it is expected,” said Hodne. “We expect our Soldiers to win, we expect our Soldiers to have the intense desire to win, and most importantly, we expect our Soldiers to have the intense desire to train to win.”

USAMU also formed a new Paralympic Section to create a unique opportunity for Wounded Veterans who are able to continue to serve on active duty and meet paralympic criteria to show the strength of our Soldiers in Paralympic competition.

Capping off a highly successful National Matches was the championship won by Sgt. Sherri Jo Gallagher. The service rifle shooter won the National High-Power Rifle Championship, the first servicemember to do so in 23 years. It was the start of many firsts for Gallagher.

Gallagher represented the USAMU, U.S. Army Accessions Command and TRADOC in the Army Best Warrior Competition, a grueling, week-long event that tested the competitors on warrior task and drills, combat scenarios, marksmanship, leadership, and a myriad of other categories.

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth O. Preston announced on Oct. 25 that Gallagher was the 2010 Army Soldier of the Year, the first woman to win the honor, a crowning achievement for this unit of 100-plus Soldiers.

“This unit is unique, for its mission, its history, and its accomplishments,” Hodne said. “Most of all, it is unique for its remarkable people. I am extremely proud of them and grateful for their hard work and dedication to this unit, our Army, and our Nation.”

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Sgt. 1st Class Jason Parker, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, instructs an Afghan National Army soldier on proper marksmanship techniques with an M16A2 rifle while deployed to Afghanistan. Parker, a three-time Olympian, and Soldiers from the USAMU have been deployed this year to establish a novel marksmanship instruction program for ANA soldiers.

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Sgt. 1st Class Janet Sokolowski, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, gives pointers to a female cadet at the inaugural Afghan National Army Female Officer Candidate School.

FORT LEE, Va. - Sgt. Sherri Gallagher departs the rifle range after qualifying during the U.S. Army Best Warrior Competition here Oct. 21. Gallagher was named the Army Soldier of the Year at the Association of the U.S. Army award luncheon Monday in Washington D.C. (U.S. Army Accessions Command photo by Forest Berkshire)

About USAMU:
The USAMU enhances the Army’s recruiting effort, raises the standard of the Army’s marksmanship proficiency, and supports the Army’s small arms research and development initiatives in order to raise the Army’s overall combat readiness. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com.

AimPoint M68 Close Combat Optics

Aimpoint

Chantilly, VA --(Ammoland.com)- Aimpoint, the originator and worldwide leader in electronic red dot sighting technology, has announced that the company’s shipments of M68 Close Combat Optics under contract to the US Army recently passed a total of one million sights.

Contracts for the M68CCO have been issued to Aimpoint by the US Military since 1997, and continue with shipments as part of the latest contract for 565,000 sights awarded to the company in August, 2009.

“The continuous use of Aimpoint sights by the US Army for the past 14 years is a great honor for our company, and passing the one million sight mark is indeed a momentous achievement” said Lennart Ljungfelt, President of Aimpoint AB.

“The M68 Close Combat Optic has continued to evolve and improve over the years with feedback from our experience during use with the US Army, and we look forward to continuing to meet future requirements as they arise”.

Aimpoint sights have been tested and chosen by the US Army following several competitive evaluations, and Aimpoint is the only manufacturer type-classified to supply the M68CCO to the US Military. The company’s products are currently in service with all branches of the US Military, and the wide variety of models available make the product suitable for nearly all infantry weapons from small arms to heavy weapons.

The M68CCO is an electronic red dot reflex sight which increases effective marksmanship, and allows the user to acquire and engage targets with increased speed and accuracy without diminishing situational awareness. The optic is extremely rugged, and the latest versions of the sight operate continuously for up to 8 years using a single AA battery.

The contract for the M68CCO is administered by the US Army Materiel Command’s Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) located at Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey, in close cooperation with Program Executive Office Soldier (PEO Soldier). Based in Malmo, Sweden, Aimpoint supplies the US market through a wholly owned subsidiary, Aimpoint Inc, based in Chantilly, VA. For more information on Aimpoint and Aimpoint products, visit the company’s website at: www.aimpoint.com

WASHINGTON -- Sgt. Sherri Jo Gallagher, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, stands with Gen. Peter Chiarelli, Army Vice Chief of Staff, and Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth O. Preston Monday after being named the 2010 Army Soldier of the Year by Preston during the Association of the United States Army annual meeting. Gallagher and 23 other Soldiers and noncommissioned officers competed in the 2010 Best Warrior Competition at Ft. Lee Oct. 18-22. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

WASHINGTON, DC --(Ammoland.com)- A Soldier with 21 national rifle shooting records added one more trophy to the case Monday: the U.S. Army’s Soldier of the Year.

Sgt. Sherri Gallagher’s young life has been one of high achievement. Now the 26-year old rifle shooter/instructor for the Army Marksmanship Unit is the first female to win the Army’s Best Warrior competition.

“This is such an honor – I don’t think it has sunk in yet,” Gallagher said moments after the announcement here Monday. “Any one of us could have won the competition. I learned so much from everybody out here and loved every minute of this experience.”

Named the winner by Sergeant Major of the Army Kenneth Preston at the Association of the U.S. Army awards luncheon, the three-year veteran bested 11 other Soldiers representing the Army’s major commands during the competition Oct. 18-22 at Fort Lee, Va.

“The reason I was successful is the training my sponsor, Sgt. 1st Class David Steinbach, developed for me,” said Gallagher, a native of Prescott, Ariz. “He pushed me so hard that I was ready for everything during the competition. Nothing came as a shock and my confidence was really high. I wish that I could share this with him because it truly was a team effort.”

Her preparation was tested at every level during the week at Fort Lee. Following a board led by SMA Preston Oct. 18, competitors were tested on their knowledge in a written exam and essay. Three days of field exercises Oct. 20-22 was next. The candidates conducted urban orienteering Wednesday and each led a squad through simulated battle operations that included engaging insurgents, tending wounded Soldiers on the battlefield, and a stress shoot while moving under enemy fire Thursday and Friday.

Steinbach said it wasn’t difficult preparing Gallagher. A Soldier that soaks up training like a sponge is extremely motivating.

“She’s pretty easy to train. For every bit you put into it, she will give you that much back and more,” Steinbach said. “I tell people that training her was as easy as using a claymore mine; just pull a trigger and she’ll do all of the work.”

Work was the order of the day for Gallagher at Fort Lee during Best Warrior. Though small in stature, she demonstrated the drive and determination it takes to be a U.S. national rifle champion.

“The amount of preparation they put into every lane was amazing,” she said of the experience. “Every event was so professional, above and beyond what I was expecting.”

One event Gallagher was expected to ace, of course, was M4 rifle qualification.

“It was faster-paced, quick, reactive shooting, but all shooting’s the same,” she said, “Keep your sights aligned and you’re good. “I’m always more comfortable with a gun in my hand.”

Gallagher’s quest began after being named the U.S. Army Accessions Command Soldier of the Year in May at Fort Knox. Ky. In July, she won the Training and Doctrine Command Best Warrior competition at Fort Lee, sending her to the Army event.

In between preparing for numerous boards and Soldier competitions, Gallagher became the first U.S. military shooter since 1987 to win the National High-Power Rifle Championship in August. She was only the second woman ever to win, following in her mother Nancy Tomkins’ footsteps.

WASHINGTON -- Sgt. Sherri Jo Gallagher and her mother, Nancy Tompkins, celebrate Gallagher being named Army Soldier of the Year Monday at the Association of United States Army annual meeting. Gallagher and her mother are the only women to ever win the National High-Power Rifle Championship. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

Gallagher’s family is legendary in U.S. shooting competition.

“My family is always there for me – we are really close,” Gallagher said. “Being named Best Warrior was that much more special since my mom was there sitting next to me today. I am who I am today because of my family. We have so much fun and live life that way.”

Being assigned to the AMU was another benefit to her path to Army Soldier of the Year, she said. With a little more than 100 Soldiers assigned to it, it represents teamwork and success. This year alone the unit has produced multiple national and world champions who are also U.S. Olympians. Army Soldier of the Year becomes a unique accomplishment in a unit known for high achievement.

“My Army family is awesome,” Gallagher said.

“My teammates on the service rifle team have always had my back. The entire unit went out of its way to support me in any way they could. Even the leadership at Accessions Support Brigade and Accessions Command would call me and offer help. The whole experience was just fantastic.”

As a unit that falls under USAAC, Gallagher is used to representing the Army all over the nation. One of the marksmanship units’ main missions is promoting Army service and connecting America’s Army to the American public.

“She connects with people in a way that’s immediate,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne, AMU commander. “Sgt. Gallagher possesses a unique combination of skill sets and character traits. She easily stands out because she is truly ‘one of a kind’ and we simply knew that she had the potential to earn the prestigious title of Army Soldier of the Year.”

This week begins a year of Gallagher representing the Army as its best enlisted Soldier. Next week, however, it’s back to training: Airborne School at Fort Benning, Ga., before attending Warrior Leaders Course soon after that.

“How great is the Army?” she asked. “I just got to spend a week with some of the most talented people this Army has to offer, and in a few weeks I get to jump out of an airplane. Nothing is better than being a Soldier.”

FORT LEE, Va. - Sgt. Sherri Gallagher assesses a mock casualty during the warrior skills lane at the U.S. Army Best Warrior Competition here Oct. 21. Gallagher was named the Army Soldier of the Year at the Association of the U.S. Army award luncheon Monday in Washington D.C. (U.S. Army Accessions Command photo by Forest Berkshire)

FORT LEE, Va. - Sgt. Sherri Gallagher departs the rifle range after qualifying during the U.S. Army Best Warrior Competition here Oct. 21. Gallagher was named the Army Soldier of the Year at the Association of the U.S. Army award luncheon Monday in Washington D.C. (U.S. Army Accessions Command photo by Forest Berkshire)

(Forest Berkshire contributed to this story)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

FORT BENNING, Ga.--The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit inducted three new members into the unit Hall-of-Fame Oct. 16 during the 54th USAMU Reunion. Pictured are (left to right): Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne, USAMU commander; Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Laurence "Red" Mosely, 2010 inductee; Lt. Col. (Ret.) Boyd Goldsby, 2010 inductee; Master Sgt. (Ret.) William O. Harden, 2010 inductee; and Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Thomas Fuller, ceremony guest speaker. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- More than 300 Soldiers, civilians and Family members, past and present, of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit gathered together to celebrate the USAMU’s 54th birthday Oct. 14-16.

The Military Marksmanship Association, the alumni association of the USAMU, hosted the reunion to afford past members of the unique unit time to reminisce with fellow former shooters and gunsmiths, as well as meet the current USAMU Soldiers and personnel.

The USAMU is the only unit of its kind in the Army. Home to 23 Olympic medalists, more than 40 World Champions, and the most competent gunsmiths in the world, the USAMU enhances the Army’s recruiting effort, raises the standard of the Army’s marksmanship proficiency, and supports the Army’s small arms research and development initiatives in order to raise the Army’s overall combat readiness.

USAMU commander Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne presided over the 2010 Hall of Fame induction ceremony Oct. 16. Sgt. Maj (Ret.) Thomas Fuller was the guest speaker and presented the new inductees with their medals and plaques. Inducted were: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Boyd Goldsby; Master Sgt. (Ret.) William O. Harden; and Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Laurence “Red” Mosely.

“What is truly unique about the USAMU Hall-of-Fame distinction is it is an award given by the voting of every member of the MMA,” Fuller remarked. “Every man and woman in this unit is one of the best shooters on the planet. Their toughest competition is from the other Soldiers in the unit. So when these men and women select among themselves those to honor, you better believe that they are deserving of it.”

The three newly-elected members collectively served more than 120 years in the Army as Soldiers and civilians, and represent 85 years of service to the USAMU, Fuller said.

“I am so lucky to have served with this great unit for most of my military and civilian career,” said Mosely. “I have been awed by (past Soldiers’) performance and am still awed by what I see from the new shooters and young shooters.”

The Hall-of-Fame ceremony was the highlight of the weekend, but other fun and festivities were had by all. Former team members got acquainted with Soldiers currently serving in the unit at team dinners on Thursday. It wouldn’t be the USAMU without some good old fashioned competition, so a round-robin rifle, pistol and shotgun match was held during the day Friday.

Staff Sgt. Armando Ayala, a current member of the service rifle team, was elected to the Running Target team Hall-of-Fame for his years as a member of the now-defunct Olympic-sport team.

“The lineage of greatness this unit has produced is a testament to everyone here,” Fuller concluded. “That is a privilege of belonging to something greater than yourself.”

FORT BENNING, Ga.--More than 300 former and current members of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit gathered on Fort Benning Oct. 14-16 to celebrate the 54th Anniversary of the USAMU. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- Former and current Soldiers and Civilians of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, along with members of the Military Marksmanship Association, will celebrate 54 years of unparalleled success at a reunion Oct. 14-16.

The reunion honors all shooters, staff and support personnel who contributed to the success of the unit. The USAMU was formed in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to raise the standards of marksmanship throughout the Army.

The unit has won 23 Olympic medals, 41 World Championships, and over 300 National and team championships. The unit also boasts the world’s best gunsmiths and hours of dedicated research and development.

Attendees will commence the event with an open house at unit headquarters as well as section “get together” dinners. A round-robin rifle, shotgun and pistol competition will be held on the 15th followed by the annual MMA membership meeting and election of new officers.

On the 16th, sections will induct members into their respective halls of fame prior to the induction of three new members into the USAMU Hall of Fame. A barbecue will close out the weekend.

The MMA’s objectives are to provide a link to the history of the USAMU, host ceremonies and social events, and support the goals and objectives of the USAMU. It also presides over the hall of fame voting. The MMA now boasts more than 575 members.

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

Bye, Bye M4 Carbine

AmmoLand Gun News

Florence, Alabama - -(Ammoland.com)- It’s no great secret that the Army’s M4 carbine hasn’t exactly covered itself with glory in Iraq and Afghanistan.

As long ago as the 1960s, long before the M4, the issues with the M16 rifle version of the AR design were well known.

In Vietnam, the M16 quit functioning so frequently that many photos from the mid-60’s show soldiers and Marines with cleaning roods taped to their rifles to clear cartridge casings that failed to eject.

The root cause of the M16’s reliability issues were the Ljungmann direct impingement gas system that in the words of some, “vomits into its own mouth.”

The cure in Vietnam was heavy lubrication to keep the fouling soft coupled with frequent maintenance. After over 40 years as, the AR platform continues to be a “dirty” weapon and its reliability has only been worsened by the large scale changeover to 14.5 inch barreled M4.

(Actually, there are two versions of the M4 – the base M4 that is semiautomatic or three round burst capable and the M4A1 that is capable of full auto fire. The latter is used primarily by Special Forces, while the M4 is predominantly used by “Big Army.”)

The issues inherent with the M4 were long ago reported by the first units to use the weapon – IE: Special Forces.

In fact, a 2000 SOCOM study regarding the M4A1 stated in part, “All…M16-based carbines and the M4A1 are fundamentally flawed.”1

Problems identified included failures to extract, broken bolts, burst barrels, cookoffs, loosened barrels and in extreme cases, blown receivers. In addition to these problems, both carbines have reliability issues in a desert environment engendered by the need to keep them heavily lubricated because of the fouling engendered by the direct impingement gas system. In the “sandbox” environment of Afghanistan and Iraq, the lubricant becomes a “dust magnet,” actually attracting the fine talcum powder like sand that seems to get into everything. When combined with the lubricant, the dust turns into a “goo” that brings cycling to a halt, which isn’t exactly what one wants or needs in a firefight. The same is true if the carbine is run dry, since it depends on lubricant to function.

HK XM8 Modular Assault System Rifle

The reports of malfunctions and the issues mentioned above led the Army to evaluate alternative carbines in 2007 in an environment as close as possible to that encountered in desert combat zones. Ten sample carbines of each of four candidates were test fired for a total of 6,000 rounds each. It isn’t our point here to go through the exact test procedures, but the test protocol was fairly close to “real world” operational conditions and when the dust settled (No pun intended.), the Colt M4 was dead last with 882 stoppages/malfunctions. The next worst, H&K’s 416 had only 233 disabling stoppages. The Mark 16 SCAR was almost in a dead heat with 226 stoppages. Best was the XM8 with just 127 stoppages. Of course, the XM8 program was long ago terminated by Congress because it had been concluded that it didn’t do anything significantly better than the M16 rifle, so just why the XM8 was even included except perhaps as a baseline is questionable.

By late 2008, the Army bureaucracy decided that what was needed was an entirely new carbine to replace the M4 family, although the problems with the M4 were restricted to the upper receiver that attaches to the lower receiver via two pins.

What this means is that the upper receiver can be replaced in a matter of seconds by simply pressing our the two retaining pins, dropping on a new upper receiver and pressing the pins back in to lock the new received in place.

POF-USA P416 14 11sx 223 Rifle

This is a VERY important point.
Special Forces long ago began solving the M4’s inherent issues by just dropping on a new upper receiver that eliminated the direct impingement gas system and replaced it with a gas piston and operating rod. This was Heckler and Koch’s HK416. But there was an issue with the HK 416 as well. Although not widely reported, the HK416s operating rod return spring that was in close proximity to the carbine’s chamber area could be damaged by heat. An alternative that was never formally procured by the military was Precision Ordnance Factory’s P416 that not only uses a piston and operating rod, but runs without any lubrication whatsoever. We know of at least one Special Forces Team that deployed to Afghanistan equipped entirely with M4A1 carbines with POF 416 upper receivers. One of the officers on this team, who must remain anonymous, informed us that the POF equipped carbines had virtually zero stoppages and weren’t affected by the dust. Informal feedback from other POF combat users indicates that the weapons deliver almost unbelievable levels of reliability and longevity. We have conducted long term testing of semiautomatic versions of the POF system in both .223 and .308 and can attest to the fact that it runs without lubrication of any kind and that the receiver remains remarkably clean and virtually free of fouling.

In November 2009 the Army invited 19 small arms manufacturers to an “industry day” in Washington, DC in an effort to see what industry was capable of producing. At this point what the Army will do about the M4 isn’t clear, but we believe that one point is worth mentioning – there really is no need for a completely new carbine like the Mk 16 SCAR, because whatever issues there are can be rectified without spending the millions needed for an entirely new weapon.

Vltor Weapons System’s Modstock EMOD Combo Kit - Flat Dark Earth

The dust, lubrication and heat problems can be resolved by purchasing the POF P416 upper receiver that just drops into place. If a new caliber like he 6.8mm SPC is wanted, that is as easy as changing upper receivers as well. If users don’t like the cheek weld on the M4’s collapsible stock, stocks with cheek rests better than the fixed stock M16 are available. An example is Vltor Weapons System’s Modstock. Again, we have used the Modstock extensively on our personal POF carbine that rides in the trunk of our cruiser at the police department and recommend it to anyone who has an M4 type carbine, whether semi- or full auto. You’re right, gentle (or not so gentle) reader, we like POF carbines and Vltor accessories, but we have the opportunity to shoot a LOT of AR-type carbines and these are the ones we prefer over all others.

The bottom line is that the M4/M4A1 as currently configured isn’t going to be around much longer. As the eight year old SOCOM study stated, the design is “fundamentally flawed” and should long ago have been redesigned or replaced.

An New Carbine Is Not Necessary
To reiterate, an entirely new carbine is neither necessary nor desirable. The M4 design is well known and spare parts and suppliers are in place. An entirely new weapon would necessitate not only new weapons production, but new spare parts production as well, with duplicate parts inventories being necessary for years to come. Moreover, the M4/M4A1’s issues are capable of being rectified in a fraction of the time and at a fraction of the cost of an entirely new weapon. (Related News: See also Adams Arms AR15FIX Retro-Fit Piston)

Finally, the technology already exists to upgrade the M4/M4A1 to the levels of reliability that our nation’s soldiers deserve. It has been said that getting anything done in the Army bureaucracy is like mating elephants – it is done at very high levels with a lot of bellowing and it takes two years to get anything done. The Army bureaucracy long ago identified the M4’s problems, the bellowing has been going on for over eight years and our soldiers are still plagued with the same “fundamentally flawed” carbine they had when the problems were identified. It’s very close to a national scandal that many of our troops are forced to obtain high reliability upper receivers like the POF 416 on their own!

It’s high time for the Army bureaucracy to quit dithering and get something done to give our troops the weapon they need and deserve!

Charlie Cutshaw

About the Author:
Charlie Cutshaw is a well-known U.S. authority on military small arms and has an extensive experience as a former U.S. Army infantry, ordnance ammunition and intelligence officer. He is an editor for Jane’s Infantry Weapons and contributing author for other military and firearms publications. When not writing Charlie is a part time police officer in Alabama. Si vis pacem, para bellum MOLON LABE!

Remington M24 Sniper Rifle with Leupold ERT Scope

Leupold Tactical Optics

BEAVERTON, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- Remington’s latest upgrade of its Sniper Weapon System for the U.S. Army, the M-24E1, includes a new Leupold Mark 4 6.5-20x50mm Extended Range/Tactical (ER/T) M5 Locking Adjustment riflescope.

Specially designed and built with the military sniper in mind, the scope has an auto-locking elevation adjustment. This feature ensures rock-solid reticle adjustment is maintained during rough going and stressful conditions on the battlefield.

“This new scope incorporates all of the features our warfighters have been asking for,” said Kevin Trepa, Leupold’s vice president of tactical sales and marketing. “We are working hard to design, manufacture and deliver the tools they need to get the job done.”

Leupold President and CEO Calvin Johnston added, “We are excited that our newest riflescope is part of Remington’s upgraded M-24E1 Sniper Weapon System. Leupold will continue to leverage its Oregon-based workforce to provide the military with superior products built to their specifications.”

Other key features of the new ER/T include M5 windage and elevation adjustment dials with audible, tactile 1/10 (0.1) milliradian clicks to match the range-estimating, mil-based Horus reticle options. This allows fast, intuitive shot correction in the field. An elevation zero-stop helps prevent under-rotation in high-stress situations.

With the battle-proven Horus H27 or H58 reticle in the front focal plane, the scope offers the versatility of a variable magnification optic and the ability to accurately range at all magnification settings (the reticle magnifies with the image).

Leupold’s Xtended Twilight Lens System delivers an exceptionally clear, bright sight picture for outstanding target discrimination at all powers and in a wide range of lighting and environmental conditions. A lockable fast-focus eyepiece makes reticle focus simple to achieve and maintain. It also enables long eye relief to provide the shooter with nearly instant target acquisition.

Other key features include side focus parallax adjustment for fast, easy parallax focusing from 75 yards to infinity, from any shooting position. The 34mm maintube provides exceptional strength and allows for maximum windage and elevation adjustment.

The Mark 4 6.5-20x50mm ER/T M5 Locking Adjustment riflescope is waterproof, fog proof and shock proof. Exhaustive testing in the factory and field ensures durability. With its M5 Locking Adjustment, the scope’s platform is unique in the Mark 4 ER/T line. It is controlled under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and limited to domestic and international government sales only.

Leupold has offered precision optics for tactical applications since the 1983 introduction of Ultra riflescopes, which were designed to excel under the most extreme battlefield conditions. Today, more Leupold long-range optics are in service with the U.S. military than any other brand. For more information on Leupold tactical optics, go to www.leupold.com.

Leupold & Stevens, Inc., the preeminent American-owned and -operated optics company, employs more than 600 people in its state-of-the-art facility near Beaverton, Ore., where rugged, dependable, high-performance Mark 4 and Golden Ring optics are designed, machined and assembled. Leupold is a fifth-generation, family-owned company whose products are sold worldwide to military warfighters, law enforcement personnel, hunters, competitive shooters and wildlife observers. The product line includes rifle, handgun and spotting scopes; binoculars; rangefinders; flashlights; mounting systems; and optical tools and accessories.

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. is a Charter Supporter of the Hunting and Shooting Sports Heritage Foundation.

US Army Awards Remington Arms a Contract to Reconfigure M24 Sniper Weapon Systems

Remington Arms Company

Madison, NC --(Ammoland.com)- Remington Arms Company, Inc. (“Remington”), a member of the Freedom Group of Companies, is pleased to announce that the United States Army’s Joint Munitions and Lethality Contracting Center has awarded Remington a Firm Fixed Price (FFP) Indefinite Delivery/ Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract (W15QKN-10-R-0403) for the upgrade of up to 3,600 M24 Sniper Weapon Systems (SWS) currently fielded to the Army pending type classification as the “M24E1”.

The major configuration change for this system is the caliber conversion from 7.62mm NATO (.308 Winchester) to .300 Winchester Magnum to provide soldier’s with additional precision engagement capability and range.

The contract is for a five (5) year period and has guaranteed minimum value of $192K with a potential value of up to $28.2 million.

This award follows a full and open competitive evaluation lasting 9 months, which began with the release of the Army’s Request for Proposal (RFP) on 13 January 2010.

The program will be executed under the authority of Project Manager Soldier Weapons, Picatinny Arsenal, NJ, and managed by its subordinate unit, Product Manager Individual Weapons

CAMP PERRY, Ohio – Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Service Pistol team won the National Pistol Championship overall team championship. Team members were: (front) Staff Sgt. Lyman Grover; Staff Sgt. Robert Park; and Staff Sgt. Patrick Franks. (back) Sgt. 1st Class James Henderson; Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Wilson; and staff Sgt. John Ennis.

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit completed one of the unit’s most successful runs in recent years at the 2010 National Rifle and Pistol Championship, winning multiple individual and team championships, setting national records, and upholding the unit’s reputation as the “Home of Champions.”

Accomplishing the unit’s mission to enhance the Army’s recruiting effort and raise the Army’s combat readiness takes up a lot of the Soldiers time, so the USAMU Soldiers’ intense desire to train to win enabled them to prevail at Camp Perry.

“Our expansive mission of supporting the war-fighter limits the amount of time available to prepare for the National Championship,” said Sgt. 1st Class Kyle Ward, noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the service rifle team

“When the team is able to come together and train, everyone is extremely focused on the task at hand.”

The crowning achievement for the unit was finishing first in all of the major team competitions at the championships. The USAMU Service Pistol’s Blue team started things off by winning the “Coming Through the Rye” trophy as the top four-man pistol team, winning the title for the second time in the unit’s history.

Soldiers from the International Rifle team followed that up by winning the prone any sight team championship during the smallbore matches, defending their crown from a year ago. Soldiers from the Service Rifle team completed the sweep, winning the “Dogs of War” trophy and the coveted National Trophy Infantry Team match.

Much of the team’s success is credited to teamwork, Ward said. Soldiers helped each other out during training sessions, communicated well during the matches, and, as is always the case at the USAMU, the Custom Firearms Shop provided the direct support that enables the USAMU to stand tall above the rest.

“I attribute much of our success to the professionals in the Custom Firearms Shop and loading facility who went the extra mile in ensuring that we had the best equipment possible,” said Ward.

Individually, USAMU Soldiers stood out amongst the huge field of more than 6,000 competitors throughout the six-week period in July and August.

Sgt. Sherri Jo Gallagher persevered against one of the toughest field of competitors in the history of rifle competitions to win the national high-powered rifle championship. Gallagher set a new national record in the process with a score of 2396-161x, beating out a ten-time champion, a four-time champion, and the defending champion.

She is the first service member to win the championship since 1987 and only the second woman ever to do so—her mother was the first. Gallagher won eight individual matches, seven aggregate championships and set four other national records over the course of the week.

Staff Sgt. Shane Barnhart swept the field during the smallbore matches, winning both the national three-position and prone championships, the second consecutive year a USAMU Soldier has accomplished the incredible feat and only the third shooter ever in the history of the matches. It was the fourth time he won the three-position championship.

“I have been close to winning the prone before, but this year I was hungry for it,” Barnhart said. “I worked my butt off during the entire nationals. I never let up.”

“Being only the third person in history to double up on the championships feels amazing. This motivates me to really train hard to make the Olympic team and World Cups.”

Staff Sgt. Robert Park led the way for the Service Pistol team. Park won the prestigious President’s Pistol Trophy for the second time and finished in third place overall at the National Pistol Championship, his first time making the podium. He was a member of three team championships and won three other individual titles, including the overall service pistol champion during the Civilian Marksmanship Program’s National Trophy Pistol matches.

Soldiers are primed for a busy fall season conducting marksmanship training for Soldiers preparing to deploy. Combining the unit’s performance at the nationals with their sheer dominance in the Interservice competitions, the training those deploying Soldiers will receive will undoubtedly come from the best.

CAMP PERRY, Ohio – Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit fire on their targets from 600 yards away during the National Infantry Trophy Rifle team match Aug. 6. The USAMU won the match, soundly defeating 41 other six-man teams. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

CAMP PERRY, Ohio – Sgt. Lawrence Cleveland (left) and Staff Sgt. Patrick Franks (right) compete during the National Trophy Team Pistol match July 18 at Camp Perry. It was the first national championships as members of the USAMU for both Soldiers they fared exceptionally well. Cleveland won the Excellence-in-Competition match and Franks was a member of the first place team at the nationals. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

USAMU Soldiers Return Home With Multiple Shooting Titles

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

Bass Pro Shops Army Celebration Event

Bass Pro Shops

Springfield, Missouri --(Ammoland.com)- Labor Day Weekend typically signals the last hurrah of summer as families finish vacations and kids get ready to head back to school.

It’s also a time we honor the achievements of those in the workplace and most would agree no one works harder than our military personnel.

That’s why Bass Pro Shops retail locations across the US will host an Army Celebration Event beginning Labor Day weekend and continuing through the second weekend in September.

Fifty-one Bass Pro Shops across the United States will offer a special salute to our troops Labor Day weekend, September 4th-6th and again Saturday and Sunday, September 11th and 12th and it’s all free!

Help show your appreciation for our troops, most of whom won’t be able to get home for the holiday, by bringing in new or slightly used DVDs, video games or books.  The first 200 people at each store who bring in donated items Saturday-Monday September 4-6th, or Saturday or Sunday, September 11th-12th will receive a Sportsman’s Racing Team poster—the first 25 people to bring in donated items on Saturday, September 4th or 11th will receive a poster signed by a Sportsman’s racing team driver.  You’ll also want to sign the big Appreciation Banner at the store that will be sent to troops.

Stores will offer free seminars and workshops, including proper flag folding demonstrations and more.  Kids can challenge mom or dad to a radio remote control car race Saturday, Sunday and Monday from noon to 5pm or take part in any of the other free activities such as the paintball cage, bean bag toss, yard bolo or make their way through a cones and tires obstacle course. Participants of the obstacle course will receive a fun prize.  (Check out www.basspro.com/army for complete Army Celebration Event weekend activities for your local store)

Go Army - Visit Your Bass Pro Shops For an Army Celebration Event

Families can also register to win one of two exciting prizes being given away.  One winner will be selected nationally to win the Grand Prize of a fishing trip with NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver of the #39 U.S. ARMY Chevrolet, Ryan Newman.  Winner will fish with Ryan in the 5th Annual Ryan Newman Foundation Charity Fishing Tournament December 11th in Cornelius, North Carolina.  You may enter to win at the store or online at www.basspro.com/winatrip.

Plus one winner will be selected from each store location as the First Prize winner and receive a Fishing Prize package valued at USD $450.00.

This Labor Day, help show your appreciation for our troops and squeeze the last drop out of summer fun without putting any pressure on your budget, by bringing the family to Bass Pro Shops Army Celebration Event weekends.

About Bass Pro Shops Group:
Bass Pro Shops -56 retail stores in 26 states and Canada visited by over 109 million people annually, international catalog and internet retailing, American Rod & Gun wholesale division selling to over 7,000 independently owned retail stores worldwide, Outdoor World Incentives also selling Bass Pro Shops gift cards through over 132,000 retail outlets across America and a restaurant division with 26 locations.  For more information regarding Bass Pro Shops store locations, products or special events, please visit www.basspro.com.  To request a free catalog call 1-800-BASS PRO

Army Pistol Shooters Win Big At National Pistol Championships

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- Soldiers with the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit swept the team awards and fared exceptionally well individually at the 2010 National Pistol Championships and Trophy Matches at Camp Perry, Ohio.

U.S. Army Blue won both the National Pistol Team championship as well as the National Trophy Team Pistol championship, defeating the top civilian and military teams in the country.

Team members were Sgt. 1st Class James Henderson, Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Wilson, Staff Sgt. Robert Park, Staff Sgt. Lyman Grover, Staff Sgt. John Ennis, and Staff Sgt. Patrick Franks. Individually, Park led the USAMU with one of his best performances ever at the nationals.

He claimed first place in the Civilian Marksmanship Program Warm-up match to starts things off and continued the hot shooting as the week progressed.

He won the Distinguished Revolver match and placed third overall in the National Pistol Championships, his first time earning a place on the winner’s podium. At the National Trophy Pistol matches Park cleaned up, winning the overall individual pistol championship and the prestigious Presidents Pistol match for the second time of his career.

This all came just weeks after winning the Interservice Pistol championship at Fort Benning for the first time. Park’s USAMU teammate Henderson also had a tremendous week at Camp Perry. Henderson, the defending National Pistol champion, stated things off by winning the NRA Preliminary Pistol match and then went on to win the National Trophy Individual Pistol match and the General Patton Trophy for having the highest aggregate score of the NTI and National Trophy Team Pistol matches. Staff Sgt. John Ennis won the National Centerfire championship with a score of 885-44x.

He was in the running all week to make the podium at the National Championships and finished in fourth place overall. Sgt. Lawrence Cleveland, competing in his first national match, won the Gen. Mellon and Military Police Corps trophies after shooting a 291-10x in the National Trophy Team Match.

Army Pistol Shooters Win Big At National Pistol Championships

Army Pistol Shooters Win Big At National Pistol Championships

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Staff Sgt. Robert Park (middle), U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, fires downrange June 17 during the 51st Interservice Pistol Championships. Park won the overall individual championship and was a member of the U.S. Army Blue team, the overall team champions for 2010. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- The Army prevailed once again as Soldiers with the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit dominated the competition at the 51st Interservice Pistol championship matches held here June 14-18.

Staff Sgt. Robert Park II, USAMU, won the overall individual championship for the first time in one of the closest competitions in the history of the 51-year-old event.

Park tallied a score of 3515-182x, beating the USAMU’s Sgt. 1st Class James Henderson, the two-time defending champion, by one point and fellow USAMU Soldier Staff Sgt. Patrick Franks by two points. Park was also a member of the first-place winning team U.S. Army Blue, giving the Army and the USAMU a clean sweep.

“This is a big deal for me,” the champion remarked. “This is one of the ones I really wanted to win. I’ve come in second twice and third a few times and it’s a lot of prestige for a military guy to be the best shooter there is in the military. It gives me something to stand on when I teach my marksmanship to Soldiers.”

Park is one of the USAMU’s top marksmanship instructors and is slated to deploy this fall to Afghanistan as part of a cross-functional team of USAMU Soldiers training Afghan National Army Soldiers on the fundamentals of marksmanship. He feels that competitions like these are critical to the overall mission of the USAMU and the military as a whole.

“This match is all about learning how to better instruct and better put these skills in Soldiers hands, especially with the war,” Park said. “It’s very important. We’re one force. We’re the United States military and its one fight. We compete and we want (the Army) to win but when it comes down to it we’re all trying to do one thing and pass these skills to combat Soldiers.”

More than 100 marksmen representing all services competed in the annual event, which promotes a friendly yet fierce competition that also acts as the ultimate training event. It allows servicemembers to share techniques, develop new ideas and enhance the overall combat readiness of the military.

Shooters compete with four different calibers of pistol, shooting one gun a day in individual and team matches. It makes it important that the competitors are proficient in a broad array of pistols and enables the competition to crown the best of the best.

“As we are part of a joint force that has been engaged in combat operations for the past nearly 9 years, and a joint force that will remain engaged in combat operations for the foreseeable future, the training provided to all of our fellow Servicemembers will help shape the course of future battles and propel our nation to future victories,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne, commander, USAMU.

Besides winning the overall championship, Park also won seven other individual titles, including the 2700 aggregate and .22-caliber individual aggregate championship. USAMU Soldiers Staff Sgt. Timothy Barber (centerfire), Franks (.45-cal) and Staff Sgt. Lyman Grover (service pistol) won the other individual aggregate titles. The USAMU’s Sgt.
Lawrence Cleveland won the Excellence-in-Competition match.

The high shooters from each service were recognized as champions and won a pistol for their accomplishment. Park won for the Army. The other winners were: Marine Cpl. Luis Esparza; Navy Lt. Cmdr. Matt Bartel; Airmen Col. Mark Hays; and high guardsman/reservist went to Army Reservist Master Sgt. Robert Mango.

Members of the first-place winning U.S. Army Blue team were Park, Grover, Henderson, Cleveland, Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Wilson and Staff Sgt. Jason Sargent. U.S. Army Grey took second place and U.S. Army Reserve Team Black earned third place. The South Carolina National Guard team won the post/station championship for smaller teams.

Called the “Home of Champions” and putting their reputation on the line time after time against the best the nation and the world has to offer, the Soldiers of the USAMU continue to excel and hone their talents that they ultimately pass off to Soldiers headed to harms’ way.

“We won the team championship and we won all of the individual matches that could be won here at the Interservice Pistol matches,” Park concluded. “The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit service pistol team is the best in the nation. I think we proved that here.”

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- The high shooters from each service were recognized at the awards banquet June 18 and given a pistol for their accomplishment. The winners were Staff Sgt. Robert Park, Army; Cpl. Luis Esparza, Marine Corps; Lt. Cmdr Matt Bartel, Navy; Col. Mark Hays, Air Force; and Master Sgt. Robert Mango, high reservist/guardsman. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Soldiers, Marines, Airmen and Sailors compete June 15 in the 51st Interervice Pistol Championships, held all week at Phillips Range. The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit carried the Army to victory as U.S. Army Blue won the team title and Staff Sgt. Robert Park won the overall individual championship, his first. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Staff Sgt. Timothy Barber, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, fires during the service pistol team match June 17 at Phillips Range, the site of the 51st Interservice Pistol Championship. Barber and his USAMU teammates on U.S. Army Grey won the match, edging out their USAMU counterparts on U.S. Army Blue. Barber also won the centerfire individual championship. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Army Reservists Master Sgt. Robert Mango (left) and Sgt. 1st Class Keith Sanderson (right), fire during the service pistol team match as Lt. Col. Alan Toler looks on June 17 at Phillips Range, site of the 51st Interservice Pistol Championships. All three were members of U.S. Army Reserve Team Black, which won two team matches during the week and finished in third place overall. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Sgt. 1st Class Eric Uptagrafft, Spc. Joe Hein and Sgt. Michael McPhail, all from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, stand atop the podium after finishing 1st-3rd in Men's Prone Rifle at the 2010 U.S. National Rifle and Pistol Championships. Hein won the event and medaled in two others. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit won five national championships and a combined 14 medals during the 2010 U.S. National Rifle and Pistol Championships at Fort Benning’s Pool International Range Complex.

Spc. Joe Hein got very comfortable atop the podium stand after winning three medals in rifle shooting during the competition. Hein won in Men’s Prone Rifle, beating out two teammates for the gold with a score of 1299.4 to win the national championship.

The USAMU’s Sgt. 1st Class Eric Uptagrafft scored a 1297.9 for the silver medal while Sgt. Michael McPhail tallied a 1294.6 for the bronze medal.

In Men’s Three Position Rifle, Sgt. 1st Class Jason Parker won the gold medal after an impressive score of 2449.5. Hein got the silver in this event, scoring a 2440.4 and Spc. Matt Rawlings shot a 2440.0 to win the bronze medal. Hein earned his third medal, a bronze, in the Men’s 10m Air Rifle event.

On the pistol side of the competition, the USAMU’s trio of Sgt. 1st Class Daryl Szarenski, Cpl. Brad Balsley and Pfc. Greg Markowski cleaned up after winning seven medals among the three of them.

Szarenski continued his dominant 2010 season after winning two gold medals at the national championships. He won in Men’s Air Pistol with a score of 1257.4 and Men’s Free Pistol with a score of 1196.8. He had already won four medals, including two gold’s, in World Cup competition this year and still has chances at a World Cup event and the upcoming World Championships to add to his total.

His teammate, Markowski, won two silver medals after finishing behind Szarenski in the same events, scoring 1249.7 in air pistol and 1187.8 in free pistol. It was Markowski’s first time competing in the national championships and he has set the bar high after the successful week.

To close out the medal count, Balsley went three-for-three in events he entered, winning gold and two silver medals. He won the national championship in Men’s Rapid Fire with a score of 1360.8, beating out the closest competitor by 20 points. He came in a close second in both the Centerfire and Standard Fire matches.

Across the pond in Lonato, Italy, Sgt. Vincent Hancock won a bronze medal in Men’s Skeet at the Italy World Cup event. The 2008 Olympic Champion started the final round in fifth place but had a strong final to medal at the event, earning points toward another possible Olympic slot on Team U.S.A. for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London.

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Cpl. Brad Balsley, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, competes in the final round of the Men's Raid Fire Pistol match during the 2010 U.S. National Rifle and Pistol Championships. Balsley won the gold as the International Pistol team collectively won seven medals during the competition. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Sgt. 1st Class Daryl Szarenski and Pfc. Greg Markowski, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, compete in the Men's Air Pistol final June 15 at Pool Indoor Range during the U.S. National Rifle and Pistol Championships. Szarenski won the gold medal and national championship, and was followed by Markowski. They duplicated their effort in Men's Free Pistol a few days later. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

FORT BENNING, Ga.- Staff Sgt. Timothy Barber, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, fires during the service pistol team match June 17 at Phillips Range, the site of the 51st Interservice Pistol Championship. Barber and his USAMU teammates on U.S. Army Grey won the match, edging out their USAMU counterparts on U.S. Army Blue.(Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- A fourth different Soldier from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit won the day’s individual championship on day four of the 51st Interservice Pistol Championships.

Staff Sgt. Lyman Grover took home first place in the service pistol category with a score of 873-27x. He was followed by USAMU teammates Sgt. 1st Class James Henderson with an 870-39x and Staff Sgt. John Ennis with an 867-31x.

In the team match, U.S. Army Grey pulled out their first win of the week. Team members were Ennis, Staff Sgt. Timothy Barber, Staff Sgt. Adam Sokolowski, Sgt. Patrick Franks, and Sgt. 1st Class Damon Baxter, all from the USAMU. Their counterparts on the U.S. Army Blue team took second.

Today’s Excellence-in-Competition match concludes the competition. An awards banquet tonight will honor the week’s winners and crown the 2010 overall individual and team champions for 2010.

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Sgt. Patrick Franks, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, stands with the Marine Corps Trophy after winning the individual .45-cal championship at the 51st Interservice Pistol Championship June 16. (Photo by Mike Badger)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- One champion won for a second day in a row and another new champion was crowned after day three of the 51st Interservice Pistol Championships.

Sgt. Patrick Franks, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, won the .45-caliber individual championship, his first after posting a score of 886-48x. He was followed by USAMU teammate Staff Sgt. Jason Sargent, who shot an 879-46x. In third came Staff Sgt. Robert Park II with a score of 879-41x.

The U.S. Army Reserve Black team won the day’s team championship, their second title in as many days. They scored a collective 1160-48x, beating the U.S. Army Blue team by a single point. The USAR Black team members are Lt. Col. Alan Toler, Master Sgt. Robert Mango, Sgt. 1st Class Keith Sanderson and Staff Sgt Jonathan Rosene.

Today is the final day of the individual and team aggregate competition. Competitors will be shooting with the service pistol of their choice. Tomorrow there will be an excellence-in-competition match to conclude the championship.

FORT BENNING, Ga.--U.S. Army Reserve Team Black won the centerfire team championship June 15 at the 51st Interservice Pistol Championships. Team members are: Cpt. Patrick Sleem, Staff Sgt Jonathan Rosene, Lt. Col. Alan Toler, Sgt. 1st Class Keith Sanderson, Master Sgt. Robert Mango, and Sgt. 1st Class Stephen Spencer. (Photo by Mike Badger)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)-  Through two days of the 51st Interservice Pistol Championships, four events have been decided and four separate champions have been crowned.

On day one, the .22-caliber championships were decided. In the individual category, Staff Sgt. Robert Park II, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, took the trophy with a score of 895-59x, just beating out teammate Sgt. 1st Class Gregory Wilson, who scored 895-51x. The USAMU’s Sgt. Patrick Franks placed third with a score of 891-50x.

The U.S. Army Blue team won the team .22-cal championship with a score of 1186-63x. Team members consisted of Wilson, Park, Sgt. 1st Class James Henderson and Staff Sgt. Lyman Grover, all from the USAMU. U.S. Marine Corps Scarlet team took second.

On day two, the competitors moved on to the centerfire matches. The USAMU’s Staff Sgt. Timothy Barber won the individual championship with a score of 885-37x. Park came in a close second with an 883-48x while Wilson had an 881-41x to come in third.

The team match concluded the day’s events and the U.S. Army Reserve Black shot an 1166-42x to beat the field. Team members consisted of Lt. Col. Alan Toler, Master Sgt.

Robert Mango, Sgt. 1st Class Keith Sanderson and Staff Sgt Jonathan Rosene. U.S. Army Blue took second place.

Day three takes the shooters to the .45 and day four will have the service pistol championship. The overall individual and team champions will be decided after the conclusion of the service pistol championship.

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

Winchester Ammunition

East Alton, IL – -(AmmoLand.com)- The United States Department of Defense recently announced that Winchester Ammunition has been awarded a $43.4 million award from the U.S. Army for .50 caliber SLAP ammunition.

“Winchester has a proud tradition of providing dependable ammunition to our military and law enforcement agencies,” said Dick Hammett, president of Winchester Ammunition.

“We are truly honored that the U.S. Army has selected Winchester ammunition to use in its mission of protecting and defending the United States.”

.50 caliber SLAP ammunition

SLAP stands for Saboted Light Armor Penetrator and is designed to defeat lightly armored targets. The .50 caliber SLAP ammunition was first used in 1990 during Operation Desert Storm.

It uses a reduced caliber, heavy metal (tungsten) .30 inch diameter penetrator wrapped in a “plastic” sabot of .50 inch diameter, which is much lighter in weight than normal ball .50 caliber ammunition.

The velocity of SLAP ammunition can also be increased in an original M2 Machine Gun to construct a very fast round with a flat trajectory to enhance impact on the target.

According to U.S. Rep. Jerry Costello, D-Ill., “half of the work will be done at the company’s plant in East Alton, Ill.”

The contract is to be completed by 2016.

For more information about Winchester Ammunition and its complete line of products, visit www.winchester.com

ATK's Tank ammunition is the most advanced in the world...

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, MN --(AmmoLand.com)- Alliant Techsystems (NYSE: ATK) has received a $52 million order for 120mm training tank ammunition from the U.S. Army. The award is for the third year of a four-year contract.

The 120mm training ammunition, used by the M1A1/A2 Abrams main battle tank, include the M865 kinetic energy and the M1002 multi-purpose anti-tank training rounds. These training rounds closely replicate tactical ammunition in appearance and ballistic performance to provide the warfighter with an affordable, yet realistic training experience.

“High-quality ammunition that is extremely reliable in training situations is essential to the warfighter who must be prepared to react decisively on today’s battlefield,” said Bruce DeWitt, ATK Advanced Weapons Vice President and General Manager.

Since 1980, ATK has delivered more than four million rounds of 120mm tactical and training tank ammunition to the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, and allied militaries. Through its proven, system-level contracting approach that reduces the risk to the customer, ATK has delivered a constant supply of 120mm ammunition that is consistently reliable and affordable.

Propellants for ATK’s tank ammunition are produced by ATK at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant, Radford, Va. ATK’s manufacturing center of excellence in Rocket Center, W. Va. provides the high-quality metal and composite components; projectiles; and cartridge load, assembly and pack operations. Program management is headquartered in ATK’s Plymouth, Minn. facility.

As a prime contractor, ATK specializes in developing innovative, advanced weapon systems that provide affordable precision and effectiveness for artillery, mortars, tanks, naval gun systems, and tactical aircraft.

ATK is a premier aerospace and defense company with more than 18,000 employees in 22 states and $4.8 billion in revenue. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga --(AmmoLand.com)- The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, in conjunction with USA Shooting, will host the 2010 World Cup USA May 22-31. This spectacular event, the third of four World Cup’s being held this year, is conducted by the International Shooting Sport Federation. So far, more than 400 of the world’s top-level shooters from 49 countries have committed to the event.

Shooters competing in two Olympic shooting disciplines—rifle and pistol—will be competing for medals and world records. This is also the same range where 2012 Olympic quota slots will be earned next year. Opening ceremonies will be held at the National Infantry Museum.

For more information on the competition, venues, match schedule, etc., please visit www.usashooting.sports.officelive.com

Media are invited to attend and must coordinate with the Public Affairs Office before coming to post. Call (706) 545-5436, or e-mail michael.molinaro@us.army.mil for more information.

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

FORT BENNING, Ga.-- Sgt. 1st Class James Henderson (left) and Staff Sgt. Robert Park II (right), U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, compete in the 2009 Interservice Pistol Championship. Henderson was the overall individual champion, edging out his Army teammate Park. The 2010 Interservice Pistol championships are scheduled for June 11-18 at Fort Benning. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga --(AmmoLand.com)- The best pistol shooters the Department of Defense has to offer are set to converge on Fort Benning this summer for the 51st Annual Interservice Pistol Championships, scheduled for June 11-18. Training and competitions are open to individuals and teams of the Armed Services of the United States, Reserve Components, and military academies and commissioning program.

The Army pistol team, made up of Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, won the service pistol team championship in 2009 and is primed to defend the title on its home turf. Sgt. 1st Class James Henderson, USAMU, won the individual championship last year and is among the favorites to claim the title as the best pistol shooter in the military for 2010.

“The Interservice Pistol championship is a great opportunity to showcase the best service pistol marksman in the DoD,” said Cpt. Gavin Rice, operations officer, USAMU. “Service members have the opportunity to validate all of their training and hard work in a shoulder-to-shoulder competition.”

Besides the top marksman from the USAMU, the Marines, Navy and Air Force annually send their finest sharpshooters to represent their respective services. The shooters will compete in center fire, .22- and .45-caliber matches, as well as an Excellence in Competition match. An awards banquet will close out the week.

While the bigger teams are training for top honors, smaller posts, stations, divisions and states are encouraged to send their teams to Fort Benning to compete.

“While the service teams shoot it out for the championship, smaller teams can also win awards and take home some bragging rights of their own,” said Michael Molinaro, USAMU spokesman.

“Marines enjoy sending their smaller station teams and beating up on the competition. We’d like to see posts, bases and stations such as Fort Benning, Fort Campbell, Lackland or Norfolk send teams and be represented during the match.”

The week-long event not only is a chance for the competitors to bring out the best among one another but also share techniques that can be spread across the entire military, enabling it to be even more lethal than it already is.

“Competitions like this one foster an appreciation and respect amongst services as everyone continues to contribute to the Global War on Terrorism,” Rice concluded.

For additional information, to register and check out the match bulletin, visit the USAMU website at www.usamu.com under “competitions” or contact Michael Behnke, the USAMU chief of competitions, at (706) 545-7841 or michael.behnke@usaac.army.mil

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Soldiers brave to cold and wind to compete in the Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence Rifle Championships Feb. 11 at Easley Range. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. – -(AmmoLand.com)- More than 100 Soldiers and Cadets braved the cold, rain and wind over the course of two weeks to participate in the Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence Pistol and Rifle Championships Feb. 3-11, hosted by the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit.

“The USAMU is extremely proud to host these championships,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne, commander, USAMU. “Competitions like this are very rare in the U.S. Army. They all had a great opportunity to train with the absolute best shooters and marksmanship instructors in the world and implore their skills in competition.”

The objective of this competition was three-fold, Hodne said. First was to gain some great training from the Soldiers of the USAMU. The second was to have some friendly competition amongst units here on Fort Benning. The third objective was to have fun.
Soldiers were afforded the opportunity to earn excellence-in-competition points in both the pistol and rifle matches, which lead to the distinguished pistol and rifleman’s badges. Additionally, the Soldiers had the chance to shoot on some of the same ranges where the much bigger All-Army Small Arms championships will take place, possibly gaining an advantage over the hundreds of Soldiers and Cadets from throughout the Army who will make their way to Fort Benning for the match at the end of the month.

“Our core competency is engaging those targets that we shoot at and hitting them the first time,” said Col. Charles Durr, chief of staff, MCOE. “This competition, along with all of the competitions the USAMU sponsors, helps us instill discipline and skill in each one of our Soldiers.”

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Col. Charles Durr, Maneuver Center of Excellence chief of staff, presents the Commanding Generals trophy to the overall champion of the 2010 Fort Benning MCOE Rifle match, Cadet Sean-Paul Adams, N. Georgia College and State University. Adams also took home the top prize in the pistol match. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

Cadet Sean-Paul Adams, North Georgia College and State University ROTC, swept the biggest awards, claiming the commanding general’s trophy as overall champion in both the pistol and rifle matches. He was followed by Spc. Benjamin Lanzotti, 75th Ranger Regt., who had the top score in the novice division. Staff Sgt. Jeramy Smith, 75th Ranger Regt., placed first in the open division and third overall.

Team Boars’ Head, made up of cadets from NGCSU, won the team match. Members were Adams, CDT Jessica Carlock, CDT Jacob Larios, and CDT Zachary Guyton. 1st Battalion, 16th Cavalry Regt. took second while third place went to MEDDAC.
In the commanding generals pistol match, Capt. Howard Rice, 4th Ranger Training Bde., took first place in the open division. Staff Sgt. Erik Correa, Company C, RTB, was first in the novice division and Adams won in the cadet division.

At the chief of staff match, Smith took home first-place in the open division. Lanzotti won the novice division, and Adams reigned supreme in the cadet division.

Spc. Brad Balsley, USAMU, won first-place in the EIC match. Five Soldiers earned enough points during the match to be awarded the bronze EIC marksmanship badge and are one step closer to achieving distinguished status, the highest honor in marksmanship. They were: Balsley, Lanzotti, Smith, Spc. Lawrence Cleveland, USAMU, and Staff Sgt. Phillip Allison III, MCOE Band.

In the rifle match, Adams again claimed the top spot overall. Following him in second-place was Cadet Anton Kletsko, NGCSU. Third-place went to Capt. Adam Pickett, 199th Inf. Bde.

The top rifle team was the 198th Inf. Bde. with Soldiers Master Sgt. Alan Goetzinger, Staff Sgt. Bradley Schwaiger, Staff Sgt. James Slayton, and Staff Sgt. James Hidgin. MEDDAC placed second and 2nd Bn., 54th Inf. Regt. came in third.

The rifle EIC match was won by Sgt. Patrick Franks, USAMU. Three Soldiers earned their bronze EIC badges: Franks, Spc. James Travllion, and Pfc. Matthew Sawallis.

“We’ve been training really hard for this event,” said Adams. “We always like coming here to the USAMU. They really help us with all skills. The weather was nasty and cold, but it was good learning all about the wind from the guys. It’s always a lot of fun.”

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Soldiers and Cadets fire shots downrange Feb. 4 at Parks Range during the 2010 Fort Benning Post Pistol Championships. Although the final day produced heavy rains, the competitors managed to have a good time at the range. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com . The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a nonprofit membership association affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation, which is comprised of approximately 67 nations.

Aimpoint M68 Close Combat Optic Rifle Sights

Aimpoint

Chantilly, VA –-(AmmoLand.com)- Aimpoint the originator and worldwide leader in electronic red dot sighting technology, has been awarded a new contract from the US Army for supply of up to 565,783 M68 Close Combat Optic rifle sights.

The Aimpoint CompM4s was chosen following an extensive evaluation and competitive trial of available optical sights by the Army s Research & Development Command (ARDEC) at Picatinny Arsenal, NJ.

Aimpoint was the only manufacturer whose product fulfilled the Army s rigorous testing criteria during this evaluation, and is the only manufacturer to be selected as a qualified vendor for this contract.

The sight chosen by the Army, the Aimpoint CompM4s, features a battery compartment positioned near the sight base, which gives the sight a streamlined profile and places the switch and battery in a more protected position. A ruggedized switch knob has been integrated as part of the battery compartment housing and features 7 night vision compatible settings and 9 daylight settings.

The modular QRP2 mount maximizes product application for all M4 Carbines and M16 rifles, and eliminates the need for a separate mounting ring. The electronic components in the CompM4s include the latest ACET diode circuitry, which allows the sight to run continuously for up to 8 years on a single battery, and features an internal voltage regulator that makes it possible to utilize any AA sized battery found worldwide for power. The sight features a 2 minute-of-angle (MOA) dot size, making it perfectly suited for use with Aimpoint s 3X Magnifier (3XMag ), Aimpoint Concealed Engagement Unit (CEU ), and all generations of night vision devices. The CompM4s is designed to function under hard use and extreme environmental conditions.

Aimpoint products are specifically designed to outperform all other alternatives – the troops count on us to be better said Brian Lisankie, President of Aimpoint Inc. Since 1997, Aimpoint has proven itself to be a reliable and trusted supplier to the US Armed Forces, and we are proud to continue our twelve year legacy as the supplier of the M68 Close Combat Optic to the US Army, US Navy, and US Air Force.

Aimpoint is the only manufacturer to be type classified for production of the M68 Close Combat Optic, and has consistently met the Army s stringent requirements for quality control and on-time deliveries. Over 750,000 Aimpoint sights have already been supplied to the US Military. Aimpoint products are used by military customers, law enforcement agencies and sportsmen worldwide.

For more information on Aimpoint and Aimpoint products, visit the company s website at: www.aimpoint.com

BEIJING -- In a driving snowstorm, Sgt. Vincent Hancock, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, prepares for a target during the World Cup Final in Men's skeet at the Beijing Olympic Range. Hancock, the current Olympic, World and National champion in Men's skeet, earned a silver medal and closed out a successful 2009 competitive season. (Photo courtesy of Marco Dalla Dea)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga.— -(AmmoLand.com)- Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit began to close out yet another successful competitive season by winning multiple medals at a number of matches recently.

Sgt. Daniel Horner got things going on a right note by winning the U.S. Practical Shooting Association Multi-gun National Championship in Boulder City, Nev. for the second time. Horner completely dominated the competition, winning by more than 380 points and establishing himself as the standard bearer in the sport.

“I couldn’t have done it without the support of my team and the Army,” said Horner, a native of Suffolk, Va.. “This is the biggest match of the year for me. I plan to win it again next year.”

Across the Pacific Ocean, several Soldiers from the USAMU showed up at the World Cup Finals in Beijing with something to prove and left with more hardware for the USAMU trophy case.
Starting things off in the Men’s Rifle 50m prone match, Sgt. Michael McPhail earned his first medal in a World Cup event when he won the silver medal. McPhail missed out on the gold by .04 but was still extremely pleased with his performance.

BEIJING -- Sgt. Michael McPhail, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, shoots during the final round of the Men's 50m prone rifle event in the World Cup Finals at the Beijing Olympic Indoor Range. McPhail earned his first medal in a World Cup competition, placing in second place. (Photo by Marco Dalla Dea, ISSF)

In Men’s Double Trap, Spc. Jeff Holguin earned a bronze medal. Holguin placed fourth in the 2008 Olympics on the same range and was happy that the results were more positive this time around.

“It was great to be back on the Olympic Range of Beijing, and this time walking out with something in my hands,” he said.

Holguin’s USAMU teammate, Sgt. Vincent Hancock, also stood on the winner’s podium in China, winning a silver medal in Men’s skeet. Hancock withstood a driving snowstorm to earn the medal on the same range where he was crowned an Olympic champion in 2008.
Staff Sgt. Ryan Hadden, a two-time World Cup match winner in 2009, placed in fifth place overall in Men’s trap, also overcoming the falling snow to finish an outstanding season on the range.

A number of Soldiers performed extremely well at the 300-meter National Rifle Championships held at Pool Range.

Spc. Joseph Hein won a gold medal in the 3×40 match, outlasting McPhail by one target. McPhail also claimed a silver medal in the Men’s 3×20 match and just beat out Sgt. 1st Class Eric Uptagrafft, who took home the bronze.

In the women’s 3×20, Spc. Sherri Gallagher won the silver medal in the Women’s 3×20 event. Lt. Col. Rhonda Bright earned a bronze medal.

Only a few more events remain on the calendar for 2009, although the Soldiers continue their primary mission of training Soldiers in marksmanship proficiency, as well as attending numerous clinics around the country. The USAMU will soon begin preparations to host the 2010 Fort Benning Rifle and Pistol championships Feb. 3-5 and 10-12.

BEIJING -- Staff Sgt. Ryan Hadden, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, weathers the cold and impending snowstorm moments before the final round of the Men's Trap event at the 2009 World Cup finals. Hadden won two World Cup matches in 2009 and placed fifth to round out an extremely successful 2009. (Photo courtesy of Marco Dalla Dea)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com .

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Staff Sgt. Travis Tomasie, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, displays the correct way of transitioning a shooters body through a course of fire Nov. 7 at Krilling Range. Tomasie and the rest of the USAMU's Action Shooting team held a camp for junior action pistol shooters from all over the country, as kids from California, Idaho, Arizona, and North Carolina, among others, descended on Fort Benning to learn from the best in the world and meet new friends. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. —-(AmmoLand.com)- Junior shooters from across the country descended on Fort Benning Nov. 6-8 as the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Action Shooting team hosted a junior camp at Krilling Range.

With two national champions, a two-time international sniper champion and a previous attendee at the camp among the instructors, the opportunity to learn from the best was a chance 48 of the top up-and-comers in the growing sport of action shooting couldn’t pass up.

“I needed more training, and my Mom thought if I came here I would meet new friends and have a lot fun,” said nine-year-old Lee Wills, the camp’s youngest participant and a native of Gainesville, Va.. “She was really right.”

The kids were picked to attend the camp after a thorough selection process, said Sgt. 1st Class Aaron Hampton, the camp director. Each junior had to meet certain criteria such as being a ranked U.S. Practical Shooting Association competitor or able to show that you have a good deal of shooting experience.

“This isn’t a beginner’s class,” Hampton said. “By no means is it geared to teach you the fundamentals. Our goal is to help grow the sport.”

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- Pvt. Shane Coley, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, instructs juniors on the proper techniques of reloading the weapon Nov. 7 at Krilling Range. Coley and the USAMU Action Shooting team held a junior camp for 48 juniors Nov. 6-8. Coley himself was an attendee just last year and joined the Army after his positive experience at the camp.

Once the juniors met the criteria, they had to submit an essay on what they wanted to gain from coming to the camp and also what the second amendment means to them. Many submissions included a fondness for the Army and desires to one day join the ranks.

“I wanted it to be something that was personal and heartfelt but also something that they’d have to spend a little bit of time to research and understand,” Hampton said. “If you have nine-year olds who can write you a two-page essay on the second amendment, they probably want to show up. It was designed to be a litmus test on how dedicated they were.”

The attendees had the opportunity to learn from the best. Sgt. Daniel Horner, who recently won the Multi-Gun National championship in Boulder City, Nev., worked with the juniors on drawing and accuracy. Sgt. 1st Class Robby Johnson, a two-time International Sniper Competition champion, gave a block of instruction on the introduction to the rifle. The attendees also learned movement techniques, transitions, and reloads.

“I was here last year and had lots of fun,” said Mark Saffery, a 13-year-old from Jacksonville, Fla. “I’ve been competing for three years now. This camp is the best part of the year. We get to learn something from every AMU mentor. They are so awesome and really great guys.”

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- 13-year-old Justin Saffery of Jacksonville, Fla. makes his way through a course of fire while being followed by Sgt. 1st Class Robby Johnson of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit Nov. 8 at Krilling Range. The USAMU hosted a junior camp for 48 of the top action shooting youths in the nation, instructing them on a variety of techniques and concluding with a competitive match. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

Instructing them on reloads was a familiar face. Pvt. Shane Coley, the newest member of the USAMU, attended the camp in its inaugural year last fall. Before attending the camp, he had no plans on joining the Army. That all changed rather quickly.

“It helped me so much when I came here,” Coley remarked, who arrived at the USAMU after completing basic and advanced individual training a mere three weeks ago. “I got to meet a bunch of new people in the sport, but I also had great mentors and great teachers in the Soldiers on the team.

“I really wanted to prove to them that I could be here. After the world championships last year Sgt. 1st Class Hampton came up to me and we talked. And now I’m here. It is a little weird because a lot of these guys are my friends, but I have to set boundaries. I want to teach them and instruct them. This is a great camp and these kids realize how valuable it is.”

This is a tricky time of year for the Action Shooting team to hold the camp. Soldiers compete in their national championships in late October, and the Fort Benning Three-Gun challenge, which they host, is held the first weekend of December. But it’s a no-brainier for Hampton and his Soldiers to continue bringing the kids back to Krilling Range and keep growing the sport that they all cherish.

“I believe in two things: one, if you’re going to do something you need to go ahead and do it and, two, if you got momentum keep it going because it’s hard to get it started again,” he concluded.

FORT BENNING, Ga. -- 13-year-old James Wall of Parma, Idaho fires on a target under the watchful eye of Sgt. Lee Dimaculangan, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. Wall and 47 other children attended the USAMU Action Pistol junior camp Nov. 6-8 at Krilling Range, receiving instruction on reloads, transitioning, draw and accuracy, movement, and an introduction to the rifle. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com . The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a nonprofit membership association affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation, which is comprised of approximately 67 nations.

Military Gun Free Zones

AmmoLand.com

Manasqaun, NJ - -(AmmoLand.com)- I am glad I am not the only one to see a common trend here? Gun Free Zones are Death Zones.

Jacob G. Hornberger, founder and president of The Future of Freedom Foundation, recently wrote a good article entitled “A Gun-Free Zone at Ft. Hood” that makes my point quite well and is worth reading.

“With the massacre at Ft. Hood, we once again see the consequences of gun control.

Remember what the gun controllers say: that once gun control is imposed, would-be murderers will obey the gun-control law by resorting to some other form of murder. At least the killers won’t use a gun, the gun-controllers exclaim, because gun possession is now against the law.

Yet, once again that reasoning hasn’t panned out at Ft. Hood, any more than it panned out at Virginia Tech, Columbine High School, Luby’s Cafeteria in Killeen, Texas, or, for that matter, on the streets of Washington, D.C., the gun-control, murder capital of America.”

Time and time again Gun Free Zones have been come killing grounds where evil men can go about killing innocent people with no chance of having to face an armed citizen.

“Now, you would think that of all places where people would be armed, it would be a military base. Not so, however. There are strict gun-control laws on military bases, including a prohibition against concealed-carry, even if the state in which the base is located permits concealed-carry.

Thus, at Ft. Hood, the shooter knew that the likelihood of anyone being able to defend himself from the coming onslaught was virtually nil. He knew that since this was a federal gun-free zone, he would be able to shoot his gun and kill his victims until he ran out of ammunition or until the local police arrived and gunned him down.

Why do shooters select gun-free zones to commit their massacres rather than, say, gun shows? No doubt that question continues to befuddle the gun-control crowd.”

The greatest irony in all this is that we have the best trained military in the world and some cowardly politician who is to afraid to take on the responsibility to defend themselves and needs to feel better about this personality flaw has created policy that say no one else including the best soldiers on earth can have a weapon to defend themselves or their family’s!!?

Of all the place in the USA our Military Bases should be the last places that are Gun Free Zones.  Am I the only one outraged by this?  If you are to then email your representative and tell them you want change.  Republish this article on your blog or book mark it in your social media network and lets make a change so that the best military on earth does not have to lay down and die without the tools they are trained with to defend you and me.

Action: Write your politician and demand that they end Military Gun Free Zones. We have included a sample letter below that you can use of modify and you can easily find and email your representative through the NRA-ILA Cap-Wiz Tool:

——————————————————–

Dear Congressman:

I was deeply disturbed and heart broken, as I am sure you were, to see the number of servicemen and women that were killed or wounded in the recent Fort Hood Shooting in TX.

But what was even more shocking is that the best trained fighting forces in the world, trained in multiple deadly weapons systems and expected to be ready to take on our worst enemy’s, are not allowed to have a simple common everyday firearm for self defense.

Apparently not even their on-base security is allowed to have weapons? The same weapons that any law abiding citizen of Texas can have in his or her home, stored in their car or carried on their person with minimal training?

Instead our top fighting units were gunned down like sheep with no way to defend themselves because some government coward decided our brave soldiers could not be trusted with a gun and should have to live and work in a Gun Free Zone.

I am ashamed that our government would allow this to happen and demand that you correct this issue and remove all Gun Free Zones from US military bases and allow our servicemen and women the god given right to self defense.

Do the right thing and end this absurd policy of US Military Gun Free Zone at once!

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FORT BENNING, Ga.--Sgt. Calvin Roberts, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, instructs a Soldier during a squad designated marksman class Oct. 7 at Easley Range. The USAMU instructs thousands of Soldiers each year to raise the combat readiness throughout the Army. The unit is led by its NCOs, who make up for more than 80% of the unit's personnel. (Photo by Mike Badger)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit

FORT BENNING, Ga. —-(AmmoLand.com)- Noncommissioned officers are the standard keepers for the military and provide a valuable service in training, leading, mentoring and caring for Soldiers. Nowhere is that more true than at the United States Army Marksmanship Unit, the “Home of Champions,” whose NCOs train, lead and mentor more than just their own Soldiers—they do so for the entire Army and an entire nation.

The USAMU, formed in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness in the Army, is a unit made up of 91 Soldiers; 74 of those are NCOs and only two officers are assigned to the unit.

“I have had the privilege of serving in the special operations community for my entire Army career and the parallels of those units and the USAMU are remarkable,” said Sgt. Maj. Martin Barreras, the USAMU senior enlisted advisor. “The NCOs in the USAMU take enormous pride in being the backbone of the unit and taking on duties normally associated with officers. They handle the scheduling and execution of training, the writing and implementation of doctrine, the professional development of their Soldiers, the establishment and management of their budgets and facilities—to name but a few of their responsibilities.”

NCOs from the USAMU instruct more than 3,000 Soldiers each year— drill sergeants, trainers, and NCOs who take those lessons learned to train thousands upon thousands of new and deploying Soldiers. USAMU NCOs teach candidates in the Reserve Officer Training Corps, enabling future leaders to be proficient in basic rifle marksmanship before they enter the active Army.

“This Unit represents the heart and soul of marksmanship within the United States Army and the NCOs that make up the unit are dedicated in improving the combat effectiveness through our marksmanship training,” said Sgt. 1st Class Charles Coffey.

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Staff Sgt. Armando Ayala, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, shows the proper positioning Oct. 1 at Pool Indoor Range to a member of the Fort Benning Junior Rifle Club. USAMU NCOs hold clinics, conduct schools, and train more than 3,000 Soldiers on the proper techniques of marksmanship every year. Out of 91 assigned personnel to the USAMU, 74 are NCOs. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

USAMU NCOs conduct the annual small-arms firing school at Camp Perry, Ohio every summer, instructing more than a thousand novice shooters on the fundamentals of marksmanship. They hold junior clinics nearly every month of the year throughout the U.S. and their dedication, professionalism and expertise instill positive impressions of the Army that may help prospective candidates in their decision to enter the Army.

“Our NCOs understand the complexities of their mission which consists of not only competing or training, but assisting with accessions support wherever they go and in whatever they are doing,” Barreras said. “They are well versed and knowledgeable with regard to their role as ambassadors for the Army to everyone who sees them and understand that they are the Army to many people.”

NCOs are accomplished military professionals who have combined civilian and military education opportunities to become an exemplary model of “Army-strong” leadership. The NCOs at the USAMU thrive under the pressure of having to compete for an international title in China one day and the next ensure that a Soldier from the National Guard preparing to deploy in harm’s way is groomed for proficiency in marksmanship.

“I believe that the NCOs in this unit understand that this is first a volunteer unit and second you must also be selected according to your performance level or ability to perform under pressure, no matter the discipline that you are a part of,” said Coffey. “With the two things above in mind, all of us know that it a distinct privilege to serve in the unit and we put our hearts into doing the best that we can at all we do.”

SAN ANTONIO--U.S. Army Marksmanship Soldiers Sgt. 1st Class Janet Sokolowski and Sgt. 1st Class Mike Moore pose with students from Bogalusa, La. High School Oct. 11. The USAMU held a clinic for junior shooters in San Antonio Oct. 9-11, one of hundreds the NCOs from the USAMU conduct annually throughout the country.

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com . The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a nonprofit membership association affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation, which is comprised of approximately 67 nations.

Northrop Grumman Lightweight Laser Designator Rangefinders

Northrop Grumman

APOPKA, Fla.- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has been selected by the U.S. Army to provide Lightweight Laser Designator Rangefinders (LLDR) under a five-year indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) contract with an estimated value of up to $599 million.

The Northrop Grumman Lightweight Laser Designator Rangefinder (LLDR) accurately targets enemy positions during the day, at night and in nearly all battlefield conditions.

“This contract award extends our opportunity to provide our military warfighters with the equipment they need and are asking for,” said Gordon Stewart, Northrop Grumman’s Laser Systems vice president and general manager. “We take great pride in our ability to support the warfighter with our LLDR system, and we look forward to continuing that commitment by our work under this contract.”

Northrop Grumman’s LLDR accurately targets enemy positions during the day, at night and in nearly all battlefield conditions including haze, smoke, fog and rain. It provides a unique capability to forward observers. The system can recognize targets, find the range to a target with an eye-safe laser rangefinder, and calculate target location for smart munitions. The system then provides this information to other digital battlefield systems. The LLDR can also be used with laser-guided munitions.

Northrop Grumman’s Laser Systems business unit has delivered over eight hundred LLDR systems since the first Army contract award in 2002. The first delivery order award under this latest ID/IQ contract is valued at $72.7 million.

Northrop Grumman is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of military Electro-Optical (EO) targeting systems. These include ground-based (man portable, handheld, and vehicle mounted) EO imaging/ranging systems for target location, laser designators/markers for precise guidance of smart munitions, and airborne laser rangefinders and designators fielded onboard many of the world’s most sophisticated manned and unmanned aircraft.

About:
Northrop Grumman Corporation is a global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, MN --(AmmoLand.com)- Alliant Techsystems (NYSE: ATK) has received a follow-on production contract valued at $9.7 million for M228 Practice Grenade Fuzes. The contract was awarded by the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Rock Island, Illinois, and follows an initial production contract awarded to ATK in 2005.

If all options are exercised, the total value of the contract would be worth approximately $50 million throughout the expected production run from the fall of 2010 thru 2015. Work on the contract will be performed by ATK at the Allegany Ballistics Laboratory in Rocket Center, W.Va.

The M228 fuze attaches to the reusable M-69 training grenade body. When initiated during training exercises, the fuze precisely measures a time delay before detonating a small black powder charge that creates realistic audio and visual cues for the warfighter to enhance the training experience.

“ATK installed a highly-automated production line to ensure that the M228 meets the quality and delivery standards our customers expect,” said Bart Olson, Vice President and General Manager of ATK Tactical Propulsion and Controls. “ATK’s high-rate manufacturing capability provides the U.S. Army the ability to effectively meet hand grenade training requirements, and prepare our warfighters for the challenges they will face in battle.”

ATK has produced more than 7.5 million fuzes for U.S. and allied customers.

About:
ATK is a premier aerospace and defense company with more than 18,000 employees in 22 states, Puerto Rico and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, MN --(AmmoLand.com)- Alliant Techsystems (NYSE: ATK) has received an initial $105 million contract award as part of a three-year contract by the U.S. Army Sustainment Command in Rock Island, Ill., to supply various types of non-standard (non-NATO) ammunition for the security forces of Afghanistan.

If all options are fully exercised, the contract value could potentially exceed $200 million. This is ATK’s second contract from the U.S. Army to supply non-standard (non-NATO) ammunition for the security forces of Afghanistan. The first $87 million contract award was announced in December 2008.

In this new contract, ATK will integrate a larger team of international manufacturers for the delivery of non-standard (non-NATO) munitions, including small, medium and large-caliber ammunition, as well as mortars and rockets. ATK’s program and technical expertise, coupled with its global supply chain management capability, will ensure continued timely deliveries of quality non-standard (non-NATO) ammunition to Afghanistan.

“ATK continues to expand its global presence through international outreach initiatives,” said Mark DeYoung, President ATK Armament Systems. “By using ATK’s core strengths and the in-depth knowledge gained during the original Afghanistan non-standard ammunition program, we are providing low-risk armament systems solutions to meet the continuously emerging requirements of our customers.”

About:
ATK is a premier aerospace and defense company with more than 18,000 employees in 22 states, Puerto Rico and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

United States Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU)

FORT BENNING, Ga. – -(AmmoLand.com)- Sgt. Maj. Martin Barreras assumed responsibility of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit from Sgt. Maj. Thomas Fuller at a ceremony Aug. 28 at Pool Indoor Shooting Complex.

Barreras becomes the 23rd senior enlisted advisor at the “Home of Champions.” He arrives from the 75th Ranger Regiment, where he served for more than 20 years. He served with distinction in all three Ranger battalions as well as the regimental headquarters.

“Sgt. Maj. Barreras arrives to the USAMU with a tremendous reputation-one of inspiring leadership, extreme competence, and extraordinary professionalism,” said Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne, commander, USAMU.

FORT BENNING, Ga.--Sgt. Maj. Martin Barreras (right), assumed responsibility of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit from Sgt. Maj. Thomas Fuller (left) Aug. 28 at Pool Indoor Shooting Complex. Lt. Col. Daniel Hodne (center) commands the USAMU. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

“I eagerly anticipate continuing the forward momentum and building upon the tremendous achievements and initiatives of this unit with the benefit of the counsel and leadership of Sgt. Maj. Barreras.”

Fuller is retiring after 21 years in the Army. Under Fuller’s mentor-ship the USAMU had some of its most successful years, which included seeing two of his Soldiers capture Olympic Gold medals in 2008 as well as numerous international, national and inter-service championships.

“In this year, the ‘Year of the NCO,’ it is entirely fitting that we honor such an outstanding NCO for his years of service in the defense of our nation,” Hodne said. “I feel extremely fortunate that I had the opportunity to serve alongside a non-commissioned officer of such caliber.”

Fuller put an emphasis on training that contributed to measured progress on the USAMU’s marksmanship training programs, Hodne remarked. He also developed a concept to field a paralympic shooting team at the USAMU for wounded warriors, as well as institute an installation-wide program for all Command Sergeants Major that provides a venue to share marksmanship training techniques for dissemination throughout the Army.

“The last two years (at the USAMU) has been an indescribable honor,” Fuller said. “True human greatness is achieved when you are part of something bigger than yourself.”

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com . The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a nonprofit membership association affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation, which is comprised of approximately 67 nations.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Eladio Avelino cleans a .50-caliber machine gun at Forward Operating Base Geronimo in the Nawa district of Afghanistan's Helmand province on Aug. 12, 2009. Avelino is a motor transport operator deployed with the 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment. The Marines are conducting security patrols in the area to speak with residents to identify their issues and concerns. The 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment is deployed with Regimental Combat Team 3, which conducts counter insurgency operations in partnership with Afghan National Security Forces in southern Afghanistan. DoD photo by Lance Cpl. John M. McCall, U.S. Marine Corps. Photographer's Name: LCpl. John McCallLocation: FOB Geronimo/Nawa

Boxes of .50-caliber machine gun ammunition and AT-4 rockets wait to be passed out to U.S. Marines at Patrol Base Jaker in the Nawa district of Afghanistan's Helmand province Aug. 5, 2009. The Marine Corps' 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment is deployed with Regimental Combat Team 3, which conducts counterinsurgency operations in partnership with Afghan National Security Forces in southern Afghanistan. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. John M. McCall/Released) Photographer's Name: LCpl. John McCall Location: Patrol Base Jaker/Nawa district

A U.S. Sailor fires a .50-caliber machine gun on board the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) while under way in the Atlantic Ocean Aug. 10, 2009, during a crew-served weapons live-fire exercise. Normandy is preparing for a force protection exercise in September. (DoD photo by Ensign Adam R. Cole, U.S. Navy/Released) Photographer's Name: Ensign Adam R. Cole Location: unknown

Department of Defense Imagery

About:
Defense Imagery Management Operations Center: A transformational agency that will provide the Department of Defense with the unparalleled ability to coordinate and synchronize strategic imagery requirements with the department’s imagery producing professionals stationed and deployed around the globe.

M2 Flex Machine Guns

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – -(AmmoLand.com)- The U.S. Army TACOM-Rock Island, Ill., has awarded General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products a four-year indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract for the production of M2 flex machine guns. Production under initial delivery orders valued at approximately $100 million is scheduled to be completed by April 2012. General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products is a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD).

Dean Gagnon, General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products gun systems senior program manager, said, “The M2 flex is a belt-fed, recoil-operated, air-cooled, crew-served weapon capable of right- or left-hand feed. The weapon’s accuracy, durability and versatility make it ideal for offensive and defensive operations.”

The guns will be produced at General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products’ Saco, Maine, facility, which has delivered more than 35,000 M2 machine guns to the U.S. government since 1979. Program management will be performed at the company’s Burlington, Vt.-based Technology Center.

General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products’ site in Saco is the company’s production site for single- and multi-barrel aircraft and crew-served weapon systems. This site, along with the Burlington, Vt. location, provides complete production capabilities, from design and development to manufacturing, testing and integration.

M2 Heavy Barrel (M2HB) 12.7mm Machine Gun

General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products produces the .50 Caliber M2 Heavy Barrel (M2HB) machine gun, a belt-fed, recoil operated, air-cooled, crew-served weapon capable of right or left-hand feed. The weapon’s lethality, durability and versatility make it ideal for offensive and defensive operations.

Specifications

• Caliber 12.7mm (NATO)
• Weight (Complete Gun) 84 Pounds (38.2 kg)
• Length 65.13 inches (1,654 mm)
• Width 9 Inches (230mm)
• Rate of Fire 450-600 Rounds Per Minute
• Maximum Effective Range 2,000 Yards (1,830m)
• Maximum Range 7,440 Yards (6,800m)
• Muzzle Velocity (M33) 3,050 feet per second (930 meters per second)
• Barrel Weight 26 pounds (11.79 kg)
• Barrel Construction Stellite®-Lined, Chrome-Plated

About:
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 92,000 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.generaldynamics.com.

RangerUp.com

Durham, NC --(AmmoLand.com)- What the hell is THAT, you may be asking yourself.

This shirt is inspired by the “Ranger School Promo” video lighting up the You Tube channels these days.

It is the most RIDICULOUS THING EVER. And we LOVE it. Featuring a tiger getting its ass beat by a just-recently-trained Ranger, this shirt can be appreciated by anyone with a love for the military.

See the NEW You’ll Fight Tigers!!! Shirt>>

Ranger Up T-Shirt You'll Fight Tigers!

About:
Ranger Up launched on 8 September 2006. We make shirts for the military and the patriotic Americans who love the men and women of the Armed Forces. The guys that own this company either were or are still in the military.

CAMP PERRY, Ohio--Spc. Joseph Hein, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, instructs a student on the intricacies of the M16A2 rifle during the Small Arms Firing School Aug. 1. Soldiers from the USAMU instructed novice shooters on how to properly fire a pistol or rifle. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

United States Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU)

FORT BENNING, Ga.--(AmmoLand.com)- Every summer at Camp Perry, Ohio, prior to the National Rifle and Pistol Trophy Matches, Soldiers from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit take time out of their own training and preparation to pass their knowledge and superb shooting skills on to the next generation of American shooters.

The Small Arms Firing School was instituted in 1918 by the Department of Defense and is conducted by the USAMU. The school is held so the military can teach the efficient application of the fundamentals of marksmanship, said Sgt. 1st Class Jason St. John, USAMU. The USAMU is assisted by members of the Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and Army Reserve and National Guard.

The concept sprang so that civilians had familiarity with the weapon and could make a smooth transition from civilian to Soldier if the nation’s security situation became unstable. More than 1,000 eager-to-learn shooters took part in this year’s class.

“We are teaching civilians so that in a time of war, with the knowledge that they have and if it’s a real bad deal, then they can help out the military,” said Sgt. 1st Class Lance Dement, USAMU. “But they are also going to become competitive shooters. We’re going to show them what is right and stress to them the basics of shooting.”

The day starts with classroom instruction and covers everything from the functioning of the weapon to proper positioning. The instructors are among the best in the industry, as evident at the pistol class, where 2009 National Pistol Champion Sgt. 1st Class James Henderson of the USAMU was among the lead instructors. After a few hours in the classroom the students make the short trek to the range and get a feel for the weapon in dry fire simulation. There are two students per military instructor.

CAMP PERRY, Ohio--Nathan Baldwin, 14, concentrates on his target during a live-fire exercise Aug 1. He is being instructed on the M16A2 by Spc. Evan Hess, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. Soldiers from the USAMU conducted the 2009 Small Arms Firing School, teaching novice shooters the efficient application of the fundamentals of marksmanship. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

Upon their return from lunch, students load live rounds into the chamber and shoot, some for the very first time. The USAMU provides M16A2 rifles for the students to use and installs a block to deny the use of the “burst” or automatic function on the rifle. The school ends with a sanctioned Excellence in Competition match where shooters are afforded the opportunity to earn four points toward their distinguished badge.
The school was tweaked this year and broken into a basic and an advanced class. The basic class was tailored for those who have never shot a pistol or rifle, said St. John. They were given an introduction to the military small-arm and an inclusion to what a shooting competition encompasses.

“The advanced class was a clinic for middle-of-the-road to top-of-the line competitive shooters and covered mental management training, preparing for a competition, and basically what it’s going to take to get to that next level,” said St. John.
Splitting the class into two and enabling the instructors to teach in relation to a shooters experience instead of a general audience seemed to be a success as apparent by the large number in attendance.

“It’s the first time we’ve done this and I think it’s the way to go,” Dement remarked. “In previous years we had around 400 students or less (for the rifle class) and now we’re close to 700. With the price of ammo going up, the cost of fuel, the economy the way it is, and people are still coming–that’s a good thing. They are the future of the sport.”
All walks of life took part in the class-men, women and children. The students ranged in age from 11 to 70, St. John said. State junior shooting teams showed up, families planned their family vacations around the trip to Perry, and others flew a very far distance to learn from the best military in the world.

“I’ve been looking forward to this for sometime,” said Stewart George, who made his way all the way from Belrose, Australia with three others to take part in the school. “A friend of mine heard about the school and we wanted to learn from the best, so here we are. I’ve done some Army reserve time and shot a rifle, but not an M16A2.”

The class enables the USAMU to connect with America. The dedication, professionalism and expertise the Soldiers demonstrate to the students instill positive impressions of the Army that may help prospective candidates in their decision to enter the Army.

“It’s such a great thing,” said Jim Davis, Hamilton, Ind. “This is the best place in the country, maybe the world, to learn about shooting and everything that goes with it.”
Davis took his son and three other children from the Dekalb County 4-H club to the rifle class, stressing to them how valuable the instruction that they are receiving is to them now and down the road.

“I still remember when I came to this school as a teenager,” he said. “I tell my kid that this is something that you’ll always remember.”

CAMP PERRY, Ohio--Sgt. Nathan Verbickas, U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, goes over the M16A2 rifle with a group of students at the Small Arms Firing School Aug. 1. Close to 700 civilians participated in the rifle class while another 500 took part in the pistol class. (Photo by Michael Molinaro, USAMU PAO)

About USAMU:
The USAMU’s mission is to raise the standard of marksmanship proficiency and combat readiness throughout the Army by sharing knowledge gained from competing and winning in national/ international competitions, research and development and advanced training programs while enhancing the Army’s recruiting effort through an active public information and public relations program. For more information on the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, contact the Public Affairs Office at (706) 545-5436, Michael.Molinaro@usaac.army.mil or www.USAMU.com . The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a nonprofit membership association affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation, which is comprised of approximately 67 nations.