Training in a mock town

ALPENA, Mich. — We focused a lot on the airplanes at Northern Strike last week. But let’s not forget that plenty of training also takes place on the ground.

The Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center has a variety of simulation tools, including a mock city. While the building facades appear Midwestern, the floor plans are almost universal.

Master sergeant Diana Nogiec said soldiers practice a variety of skills in this little town.

“We practice a lot of force-on-force. And that’s where our teams move together. So we practice communicating with one another, we practice moving as a unit from building to building. And we practice cover.”

Nogiec said she appreciates all the different exercises the CRTC’s facilities allow them to do.

Northern Strike continues until August 14.