How Often Do 12B Combat Engineers Operate Heavy Machinery?

Introduction to 12B Combat Engineers

The 12B Combat Engineer is a crucial component in military operations, tasked with ensuring successful operations through the deployment of engineering equipment and techniques. However, the frequency of using heavy machinery varies widely, often depending on the specific mission and unit structure.

Frequency of Heavy Machinery Use

12B Combat Engineers typically operate heavy machinery as often as possible. The rationale behind this is simple: heavy machinery can perform tasks more efficiently and safely than manual labor. It allows them to focus on more critical duties, such as ensuring structural integrity and creating safe pathways for troops and supplies.

Organic Vehicles and Specialized Units

Some engineer units have organic vehicles such as cranes and dozers, which are essential for specific tasks. These vehicles are primarily used by specialists who are trained to operate them. However, the basic 12B combat engineers often rely on a more diverse toolbox, including:

E-tool: A comprehensive utility tool designed for various engineering tasks. Pioneer Box: Contains a variety of hand tools like bushhooks, shovels, a 48-inch pinch bar, wire gloves, and sledgehammers. Pneumatic Tools: Portable air-powered tools used for drilling, fastening, and sanding.

While these tools are versatile, they are not as efficient for large-scale operations as heavy machinery.

Common Vehicles

The most common vehicles for 12B combat engineers include:

ARMORED M113 VEHICLE: A versatile tracked vehicle used for transportation and as a mobile command post. DEUCE TRUCK: A standard 2-axle cargo truck used for transporting supplies and equipment. M728 CEV: A combat engineering vehicle equipped with a 165mm demolition gun and other engineering capabilities. OLD M60 TANK: An older tank variant with a demolition gun for clearing obstacles and creating pathways during combat operations.

The availability and type of vehicles depend on the unit's Table of Organization and Equipment (TOE) and the specific mission. Some units may have a clear focus on combat engineering tasks, while others may have a broader mission set that requires a wider range of tools and equipment.

Factors Influencing Machinery Use

The frequency of heavy machinery use for 12B combat engineers varies depending on:

Unit Type: Bridge units or specialized groups may have less access to heavy machinery. TOE and Mission: Some units might have a higher emphasis on combat operations, while others might focus on support roles. Resource Allocation: The availability of heavy machinery and other resources can also influence how often these tools are used.

For example, a brigadier unit with a mix of 12B and 12C engineers might not have as many heavy machinery options as a pure combat engineering unit. Similarly, units focused on demining or route clearance may have more frequent access to specialized machinery and tools.

Case Study: Personal Experience

Personal experience as a combat engineer from 1986 to 1991 and a quartermaster from 2001 to 2007 provides insight into the relative frequency of heavy machinery use. While both roles involved engineering tasks, the quartermaster experience was more focused on logistics and supply chain management, leading to less time spent operating machinery.

During active combat engineering duties, the use of 6K forklifts as a quartermaster was far less frequent compared to regular combat engineering tasks. This highlights the importance of situational context in determining the frequency of heavy machinery use.

Conclusion

While 12B combat engineers generally aim to use heavy machinery as often as possible due to its efficiency and safety benefits, the actual frequency can vary widely based on mission requirements and unit structure. Understanding the differences between the tools and vehicles available is crucial for effective task execution and mission success.