Fort McCoy became the focal point for a major training initiative this July as hundreds of Army Reserve soldiers from various units converged to participate in the 87th Training Division’s Warrior Exercise (WAREX) 87-24-02.
Spanning two weeks from July 13 until this Saturday, July 27, this training exercise is set to provide a unique opportunity for reservists to sharpen their combat readiness through a series of challenging scenarios.
WAREX: Comprehensive Training Program
Under the guidance of Training Coordinator Chief Larry Sharp with the Fort McCoy Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization, and Security, the soldiers engaged in a rigorous schedule that included live-fire drills, medevac procedures, and convoy operations.
A key component of the exercise involved mastering the M249 light machine gun and the M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun. Soldiers were required to hit six out of nine targets to qualify for the latter.
A post on the 87th Training Division’s Facebook page highlighted the exercise’s importance: “Part of the WAREX is validating Soldier warfighting capabilities in both individual and collective common Warrior tasks.”
This emphasis on practical, hands-on experience is vital for reservists, who may not frequently encounter such intensive training during their routine duties.
During the M249 SAW range exercise at the Fort McCoy on July 17. (Capt. Christina Winters/US Army)
The exercise also featured scenarios that tested the soldiers’ ability to interact with opposing forces and conduct 9-line medevac calls—a critical skill set for ensuring rapid medical response in combat situations.
According to a video interview with participants from the 974th Quartermaster Company, the training was both challenging and highly rewarding.
“Being in the Reserve, we don’t really get to do training like that often,” said Staff Sgt. Brenda Chairez. “So being able to come out here and experience that, going through that is really great. I know other Soldiers really loved it. I think we should do this more often.”
Distinguished Visitors Observe and Engage
WAREX 87-24-02 not only focused on enhancing tactical skills but also served as a platform for leadership interaction with troops.
Notable visitors included Lt. Gen. Jody Daniels, Chief of the Army Reserve and commanding general of the US Army Reserve Command, and Command Sgt. Maj. Gregory Betty.
Their presence underscored the exercise’s significance and the Army Reserve’s commitment to maintaining a highly capable and ready force.
Fort McCoy: A Center for Military Readiness
Fort McCoy, with its motto “Total Force Training Center,” proved to be the ideal location for such a comprehensive exercise.
Offering a variety of terrains and facilities, it accommodates over 100,000 military personnel annually for field and classroom training.
As WAREX 87-24-02 wraps up this week, the participants leave better prepared and more confident in their abilities.
For many, it was a rare chance to test their skills to the fullest, reinforcing the Army Reserve‘s role in supporting national defense.
With more training scheduled for a busy August, Fort McCoy continues to stand as a pillar of military readiness and excellence.
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