Next WTI course in Yuma Oct. 5
Marines train for war, disasters
Twice a year Marines train in Yuma for natural disasters or rescues they may have to perform across the globe. The city’s setting allows for “realistic” training during the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course.
The next training will take place Oct. 5, according to representatives of Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, who briefed the City Council on what officials and residents can expect.
“Every year, twice a year, the Marines come together to train for war,” Lt. Col. O.J. Weiss said during an Aug. 14 meeting. He noted that the 80 students in attendance would then go around the world training other Marines to do their jobs.
Weiss noted that the training provides residents with the opportunity to see the operations up close and personal and how their tax dollars are being spent.
Capt. Michael Harper, who serves as the evolution coordinator, thanked local officials for allowing the training to take place in the city. He pointed out that Yuma provides a realistic environment not found anywhere else. The training in a major populated area follows real-life operations as closely as possible.
Specifically, the operations in Yuma focus on training Marines to provide foreign humanitarian assistance in cases of natural disasters, including delivery of food, medicine and supplies. Graduates then lead those missions around the world.
More than 30 aircraft, five in Yuma, will be involved in the training from 4-10 p.m. Aircraft will strictly adhere to all Federal Aviation Administration regulations and fly a minimum of 500 feet above ground over the city except during takeoff and landing. They will be in communication with air traffic control.
On the ground, the training will include Marine security forces, a loudspeaker system, the Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance, Medical Civil Action Program participants and refugee role players.
The security force will provide “protection” at various sites. The training will include Marine firefighters and Yuma and military police.
At Kiwanis Park, some Marines dressed in plain clothes will play refugees and displaced persons. Some will have makeup resembling injuries. The “injured” will be evacuated. Role players will be wearing reflective belts.
Students will learn how to deal with hungry people and the friction that comes with those situations. They will learn how to successfully handle mass casualty situations and communicate with a large group of people. A site commander will be responsible for maintaining the cleanliness, safety and efficiency of the training sites.
No ordnance or weapons will be carried on any aircraft or by personnel.
Spectators are welcome to watch at the training sites, which include Trinity Christian Center, Kiwanis Park, Centennial Middle School, Crane Middle School and Yuma Regional Medical Center. However, landings at YRMC will not interfere with actual medical emergencies.
Spectators are asked to follow instructions and directions of local authorities and exercise personnel for their own safety.
Mayor Doug Nicholls noted that the Yuma community is “very proud” to host this training twice a year and will continue to welcome WTI students and instructors “until war is no longer necessary.” He thanked them for their service.