In preparation for the unexpected, Marines with 2nd Supply Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, participated in a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer class, Dec. 17, 2015 at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.
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The HEAT class teaches Marines how to react during a vehicle rollover. They go through various exercises simulating different situations like low visibility, no visibility, sideways rollovers and 180-degree rollovers.
“The main difficulty was not being able to see,” said Lance Cpl. Andres Gonzalez, a student participating in the class with the unit. “When you can’t see anything, it is hard to keep calm and in control.”
As an added stressor, Marines were required to don the equipment that is typically worn during a patrol. Though vehicle rollovers are unlikely, the class puts the Marines in the uncomfortable situation so they know how to react and are prepared for the worst.
“We need to make sure we are ready in any kind of situation that our Marines can be deployed into,” said Cpl. Christian Jenkins, a student participating in the class with the unit. “I feel like everyone should have the opportunity to do this training. It can really help out in a real-life scenario.”
As the Marines gradually progressed through the day’s training, additional challenges were incorporated, like evacuating simulated casualties and setting up a security perimeter around the area.
To accomplish the tasks as they progressively became more difficult, communication was the most essential factor in completing the mission, according to Gonzalez.
“We got out of the vehicle successfully because of communication,” Gonzalez said. “That’s the main thing, and nobody panicked and we all helped each other out.”
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