STRAC Allocations

[Basenshukai]

I was just going over some of the STRAC (Standards in Training Comission - DA Pam 350-39) allocations for an Active Component SF Battalion and was appalled at the numbers. I won't post them here. But, there are many of you out there that have felt the pain of STRAC numbers and how they limit the extent of tough and realistic training down at team-level.

However, I have heard of instances of liberal application of allocation quantities during some years and now, I see a stricter application of the STRAC manual. Some site OEF as a reason for this (i.e., ammo being routed to where it is needed most). My personal opinion is that current STRAC is terribly outdated for the needs of Special Forces.

So, the topic for discussion is:

1. How do you see STRAC? Does it mostly help, or hinder?

2. What have you done to fix the shortcomings of the STRAC system (i.e., unforecasted requests, ect.)?

Now, I'm focusing this issue solely on SF units. Reason: I'm currently wrestling with the issue and I'm searching for options. Let's see what we turn up.

[NousDefionsDoc]

When I was there STRAC was Skilled, Tough, Ready Around the Clock.

At Bragg, sometimes we made deals with other units for ammo - trading demo training, med training, whatever.

We didn't have that problem when I was in Panama :D

[Psywar1-0]

So you only got STRAC ammounts for this year? or the comming year? I was an ammo manager for a couple years so I can feel your pain. We got only STRAC after not using our above STRAC allocation the previous year. Things like the fact that the entire unit was in Kosovo for 8 months had no bearing on the fact that we didnt use our allocation. Next year we were not deployed and had no ammo to do anything other than required qualifications.

Couple of hints:

You can forecast more ammo that you are allocated. That way all you need is a plus up of ammo towards the end of the FY, not both a plus up and an unforecasted request.

Also try to "hide" some ammo for team training under Title X requests.

[Team Sergeant]

You can also do what I did and plan the majority of your range training for the month of Sept. Plan well ahead and plan to sleep/eat on the range. You will have more ammo then you will be able to shoot, I’ll guarantee it.

The Team Sergeant

[Basenshukai]

The "September Ammo Request" solution is a real good technique when your "Green Cycle" happens to coincide. I've seen it done, and it works.

Also, I've heard of a very good brief called "The Life of a Bullet". Apparently, it chronicles what happens to ammo from the moment it is manufactured to when it reaches it's intended target. I am currently trying to find out where I can find this brief (if it is on Powerpoint). But, it is given out here every so often.

[Team Sergeant]

As a troop leader it was my job to exert my influence on the “Lives of many Bullets” and ensure the end of their useful lives did in fact coincide with the training of my Team.;)


I'll see if I can find you that PP presentation.

TS

[Roguish Lawyer]

I know this is off topic, but I wonder if I might have a question answered.

"Detachment Member" -- I take it that Basenshukai has made it on to an A team and has this title for that reason? At what point does he become a "Quiet Professional"?

Just curious. :)

[Team Sergeant]

Originally posted by Roguish Lawyer
Just curious.

Curiosity killed the cat.

Keep it up and you’ll find a horse’s head you know where.;)

The Team Sergeant

[Roguish Lawyer]

OK, OK.

Donde esta su claymore avatar?

[longrange1947]

STRAC in a MINIMUM ammo allocation, not maximum. The problem is, most ammo forcasters use it as the number to allocate to the teams. They do not even check the ASP to see what "Special Ammo" is available for team training.

Plan your training and request your ammo. Use your UFRs as well. It is the only way to build your training ammo requests.

When you get dumped on by the unit due to a deployment, raise hell. In many cases, it is because someone does not feel like doing their job. Force the issue and you will be surprised how fast things can change. Incompetents do not like lights shinning on them.