Train to maintain.

Dear Editor,

Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below (FBCB2) is a command and control tool to help maintain situational awareness. But I've noticed that much of the FBCB2 equipment is not being maintained like it should be.

Preventive maintenance is not being done and I think part of the problem is a lack of trained soldiers. A solution is to send more soldiers, not just 25Us, to the unit level maintenance (ULM) course.

The POC For ULM FBCB2 training is the Battle Command Systems Directorate at Ft Gordon. They can be reached by calling DSN 780-0871/6856 or [phone]/6856. Training can also be set; up through Battle Command Training Centers online at: https://BCTC.army.mil/

Your CAC is required for access.

The program manager website can be found at https://fbcb2.army.mil

The website contains the following:

* the latest computer-based training

* programs of instruction

* tactics, techniques and procedures handbooks

* installation kit technical bulletins

* software user manuals

You can also get an illustrated handbook, Tactics, Techniques and Procedures, by contacting the TRADOC capability manager for FBCB2. Call him at DSN 464-4009 or [phone]. Or email:

[e-mail]

Also, you can get access to the most current FBCB2 parts list--EPLRS and BFT--on the TRADOC Capabilities Manager website:

http://www.knox.army.mil/center/tcmpbccid/index.htm Go to the website and click on Platform Battle Command, then click on the link toward the bottom of the page. It takes you to our AKO knowledge center. (You'll have to use your AKO login.) From there you can select the folder with the parts list.

SFC Christopher Whitaker

Ft Knox, KY

Contact Dan Quinn, DSN 987-2045, [phone], email [e-mail]

if you have problems accessing this site or need additional training or technical information.

Editor s note: Thank you, Sergeant Whitaker, for being concerned about maintenance on the FBCB2 and for putting this information together. Unit commanders and NCOs, it's now up to you to get your soldiers trained.