The United States Army's Security Assistance Training Management Organization (SATMO) is progressing with its training program for the Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF). The team has been working for two weeks at the Goldie River Training Depot and Murray Barracks, focusing on Small Unit Tactics and Advanced Medical Skills.
MSG Hans Moeller II, from the SATMO team, shared their excitement about the collaboration: "The Team from the US Army’s SATMO is excited to be back in PNG training with 1RPIR in Small Unit Tactics and Advanced Medical Skills. This continues training from last year aimed at enhancing PNGDF’s leadership and capabilities at the tactical level and PNGDF’s ability to respond to disasters and provide critical lifesaving aid to the populace. This training is both challenging and rewarding, but we know the PNGDF is up to the challenge."
The PNGDF medical team has completed the first half of its four-week training, focusing on Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support. The 13 participants have undertaken thorough teach-back sessions and are preparing for the train-the-trainer program's Limited Primary Care section.
Meanwhile, the 38 students of the Small Unit Tactics course, called the "Warrior" Course, continue to train amid challenges like severe flooding. The second week concluded with a Range Day, including exercises on the MAG58 (M240) machine gun and various classes related to casualty evacuation and weapons systems. The upcoming week will concentrate on battle drills and preparing for field training exercises.
This training effort aligns with the United States' ongoing partnership with the PNGDF, notably in a year marking the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence and US-PNG diplomatic relations.
“Members of the PNGDF conduct medical training with SATMO, focused on respiratory emergencies and cardiac arrest. Members of the U.S. Army assigned to SATMO conducting a training range with the PNGDF at Goldie River Training Depot.”