Contributed Photo
Above from left, Fort Hunter Liggett Chaplain Gregory Long, Commander Kerry Norman, Chaplain Chan Ham and 7th Infantry Division Commander Willard Burleson stand with the new chapel sign.
JOLON — Nearly 5,000 Seventh Infantry Division soldiers conducted a Bayonet Focus training on Feb. 12 at Fort Hunter Liggett.
The exercise rotation is designed to prepare and validate Task Force Ghost for the next phase at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin later this year.
“Bayonet Focus 18-02 provides an opportunity for the Seventh Infantry Division and its units to certify their individual and collective tasks readiness and proficiency in a live, virtual and constructive training environment,” said SFC Anthony White. “It produces agile and adaptable leaders and soldiers to answer the nation’s call and the unforeseen contingencies of the 21st Century.”
According to White, the training exercise went well. The first Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Seventh Infantry Division is tested daily in various situations. The division has met with local town leaders, interacted with news media and faced versatile opposition forces in the austere and fluctuating training environment provided by Fort Hunter Liggett and Camp Roberts.
“This exercise is a necessary step as the unit prepares for its capstone training exercise at the National Training Center in April,” said White.
The day also marked the dedication of its chapel. The Seventh Infantry Division was stationed at Fort Ord from 1974 to 1994 and used Fort Hunter Liggett for its training grounds. Public Affairs Officer Amy Phillips said a street was also named after the Seventh Infantry Division.
