Melbourne University Regiment (MUR), of the 8th Brigade, recently conducted Exercise Rhoden Strike over two days at the Puckapunyal Military Training Area.
The combined arms exercise integrated trainees from four concurrent MUR training courses: Infantry and Cavalry initial employment training, Cavalry Scout Patrol Commander and the Cavalry Regimental Officer Basic Course.
Commander of the 8th Brigade, Brigadier Arran Hassell, said exercises like Rhoden Strike were crucial for junior officers and soldiers.
“It is a unique training activity where we bring individuals from different corps together, early in their careers, to operate in a combined arms environment,” he said.
Trainees conducted a range of tasks, from infantry patrols to reconnaissance techniques.
On day one, after receiving orders and conducting rehearsals, the combat team patrolled to designated positions and established night harbours, allowing trainees to practise securing and managing a defensive position overnight.
On day two, the exercise’s main activity began with a coordinated combined arms attack at dawn, led by the infantry platoon with the cavalry scouts’ protected mobility vehicles in a support-by-fire role.
Under the cover of smoke grenades and suppressive fire, the combined arms combat team identified, observed, closed in on and cleared the enemy call sign. Once the engagement was over, members from Charlie Company, First Military Police Battalion, moved in to conduct battlefield clearances and provide mission support.
Trooper Elodie Manouvrier, of 1st/15th Battalion, The Royal New South Wales Lancers, a trainee on the cavalry scout course, said what she learned was invaluable.
“We learned a whole new array of weapons systems as part of our employment training in the past two weeks, as well as tasks typically conducted by cavalry, such as reconnaissance,” she said.
“This culminating exercise allowed us to test what we learned by observing, then advancing on an enemy position, working alongside infantry to achieve our goals.”
Private Aaron Cant, an infantry trainee of the 9th Battalion, The Royal Queensland Regiment, reflected on his experiences.
“I’ve made some good friends and had good laughs. We’ve bonded well as a team and friends because we shared a common purpose,” he said.
Brigadier Hassell said the broader impact of the exercise was about learning the basics of soldiering.
“We’re giving soldiers foundation skills, which they can take back to their units across the country, where they can help build the capability needed by Army right now,” he said.
“What a great way to serve the country. Army is a great employer; it pays well and has great conditions – but above all, you’re serving the nation and supporting the security of our country. What more could you ask for?
“The 8th Brigade is very fortunate in that we see civilians joining the Army, going through their training and graduating as qualified soldiers.
“I couldn’t be prouder of the work that our brigade does to turn Australians into the newest soldiers in our Army.”
