118th MP Battalion Conducts Current Operations Leader Development Course

Written & Provided by: MAJ Sean W. Fitzpatrick, 118th Military Police Battalion

The 118^th Military Police Battalion recently conducted Current Operations Leader Development Course (COLDC) training during the January and April IDT periods with the Fort Indiantown Gap Mission Training Complex (MTC) personnel.

The COLDC course is a uniquely tailored analogue course for organizations to train the current operations staff on their duties and responsibilities within a CP (Command Post). This includes fundamental techniques and procedures required to develop SOPs, and maintaining a COP (Common Operating Picture), Reports, and Battle Rhythm events.

COLDC weaves professional lectures, demonstration of best practices, and creates practical exercises that allow staff to immerse themselves in a scenario, forming a dynamic performance-based training event. The scenario provides realistic challenges that force staff to practice, refine, update and/or familiarize themselves with unit specific SOPs, KM processes, and Battle Drills. Units learn how to apply the art and science of a synchronized flow by sharing information, combined with effective decision-making that supports the Commander’s ability to Command and Control. Staff members learn to operate as a synergistic team within the CP, becoming familiar with doctrine and individual skills, knowledge, and abilities through a specifically designed training event for each unit.

The culmination of training focuses on expert data management and discipline to maintain and produce critical products that are linked with timely and accurate communication. The final portion of the course requires the staff to conduct CP briefings such as a BUB, CUB, Shift Change Brief, and 2-Minute Drill during high stress situations to maintain a shared understanding.

During these training events the MTC personnel instructed and assessed the 118^th MP BN both in the classroom and field setting. The course also provided feedback, as well as After-Action Reviews (AARs) of the BN’s performance. The 118^th MP BN will continue to train on their Command Post and staff skills culminating with an evaluated Command Post Exercise (CPX) in June at Fort Indiantown Gap. The CPX will test the BN’s ability to conduct not only analog command post operations but also quartering party, CP security, and CP displacement. The skills learned during this Annual Training will be put to the test in FY-24 when the 118^th MP BN and the 115^th MP CO conduct a multi echelon FTX at Fort Drum.