FORT POLK — Soldiers with Fort Polk’s Joint Readiness Training Center patrolled in search of the enemy Saturday, evading gunfire and explosions while trying to protect and provide security for the town’s civilians. Friends and family members of the unit were invited to watch the training scenario, but for members of the 1st Battalion, 509th Infantry Regiment, it was just another day at the office.

The U.S. Army installation invited loved ones to witness the training that goes on in “the box” — the area of forested terrain dotted with realistic villages that serves as the setting for the scenario-based military exercises.

The JRTC draws thousands of soldiers annually, and sometimes law enforcement agencies, to participate in training and is often the last stop before overseas deployment.

James Evins is the facilities manager for Shugart-Gordon, one of the villages used for training scenarios, and the site for Saturday’s exercise. He said the town is fully equipped for realistic training, including sewer, power lines and an underground tunnel system.

Saturday’s scenario involved two guerilla fighters placing an improvised explosive device in a crowded marketplace, followed by a truck bomb driven into the middle of town. Soldiers rushed in to track down the insurgents while others worked to address the wounded and help civilians get to safety.

Spc. Paul Goerk said that while the training is often grueling — with some exercises lasting a week or more — it can also be exhilarating.

Annette Marzhl came to see the training after her 17-year-old son, Karl, saw a flier for the tour. Marzhl, whose husband was in the Army for 23 years, said she was impressed by the exercise.

“I think it was an excellent presentation; it was outstanding,” she said. “JRTC provides excellent training, and this is our home so we were happy to come out and see what they do here.”(Rick Hickman/American Press)

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