Army Chemical Review presents professional information about Chemical Corps functions related to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, smoke, flame, and civil support operations.
Issue link: https://chemical.epubxp.com/i/141522
By Captain Diane M. Hamm Introduction T he battle captain thunderously announces, "Attention in the TOC," and a Soldier double-times it to the tactical operations cell (TOC). There, Command Post of the Future operators home in on their computer screens, digitally recording key events of the last 24 hours and building a comprehensive picture showing where dismounted reconnaissance forces detected the use of a nerve agent in an underground facility. Suddenly, the word gas repeatedly blares from the speakers that are located in each tent, and the TOC pulses with Soldiers donning protective masks. All of this happens in a matter of minutes—on the Korean Peninsula, where the balance between peace and aggression is indeterminate. Due to the specialized capabilities of the 48th Chemical Brigade "Spartans" from Fort Hood, Texas, elements of the brigade were called upon to deploy to the Korean Peninsula in support of the 2d Infantry Division (2ID) mission to maintain peace and stability in the region through participation in the most recent Warpath III exercise, held from October to December 2012. Warpath III served as the frst culminating combined training exercise for the 48th Chemical Brigade— and as the brigade's frst certifcation exercise—since its inception in 2007. The exercise provided the ideal opportunity for Soldiers of the 48th to practice battle drills; TOC operations; and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and highyield explosives (CBRNE) skills to ensure that they are better postured to accomplish their mission. According to Command Sergeant Major Kenneth M. Graham, command sergeant major of the 48th Chemical 48 Brigade, the need for specialized brigade assets and capabilities continues to grow. He stated, "The Chemical Corps [and the brigade] have come a long way, and we now stand ready to counter any CBRNE threat anywhere in the world. . . . The recent training opportunities provided by the 2ID in South Korea have allowed us to validate and improve the construct of the Army's only operational and deployable chemical brigade, and I am excited to be a part of this great endeavor." The Spartan team previously deployed to Korea to participate in the 2011 Warpath III exercise—also in support of 2ID. That year, the 48th Chemical Brigade conducted the largest strategic movement, deployment, and operation in the history of the brigade. In an operation that was truly unique in terms of breadth, complexity, and participation, the brigade assessed its role in impacting CBRNE defense. This year, the brigade understood and prepared for its role as an enabler by conducting multiple videoconferences with 2ID and the brigade higher headquarters at 20th Support Command (CBRNE), training Soldiers on the Command Post of the Future and other operating systems, participating in related peninsular exercises such as Operations Ulchi Freedom Guardian and Key Resolve, and conducting a week of instruction to provide the brigade staff with a starting point regarding weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Therefore, the brigade was better prepared to provide CBRNE subject matter expertise, allowing CBRNE assets and capabilities to be more effectively employed by combatant commanders. While last year's exercise underscored the importance of technical core competencies, warrior tasks, and the synchronization of unifed land operations, this year's exercise Army Chemical Review