The pre-qualification and qualification have been combined into one day, said Staff Sgt. William Radebaugh, training noncommissioned officer-in-charge, Camp Foster PMO.

“We expect our Marines and JSG to be proficient since they handle their weapons almost every day and qualify on different types of ranges every quarter,” Radebaugh said. “Transition drills from rifle to pistol and shotgun to pistol, low-light drills, quick reaction drills and movement while shooting are all included in the yearly training.”

“The ranges allow us to train to provide better security for the Marine bases and ourselves,” added 1st Lt. Manabu Yokoda, shift officer-in-charge, JSG. “The harder we train, the harder a target we make ourselves.”

The quarterly qualifications offer the PMO Marines and JSG a chance to build some cohesion and engage in a friendly rivalry, the Radebaugh said.

“The biggest reason it’s important for the JSG and PMO to qualify on ranges together is to build a good working relationship and camaraderie,” said Lance Cpl. Josh DeAses, military policeman, Camp Hansen PMO.

Everyone enjoys the friendly competition and pressure, Yokoda added.

Training together also helps PMO and JSG build confidence in each other as they work side-by-side, said Radebaugh.

“When you see each other train and qualify then it’s reassuring to know the man next to you is proficient in his skills,” Radebaugh said. “It also lets both sides know that their partner can effectively stop any threat with the escalation of force.”

The annual pistol qualification consists of three phases: weapons handling procedures with the M9 service pistol, preventive maintenance, engaging stationary targets and engaging targets with limited time exposure. In order to qualify as marksman, shooters must achieve a score of 245; for sharpshooter, 305; and expert, 345.