This is the first part of a two part conversation with MAJ Michael Hitzner discussing Special Forces (SF) Companies (AOBs) and Teams (ODAs) conducting training in Large Scale Combat Operations (LSCO) across multi-domains at the National Training Center (NTC). He shares his immense experience and insights on how best to approach a Combat Training Center (CTC) rotation and what he has learned from his time here at NTC.

MAJ Hitzner recently finished his two year tour at the National Training Center, spending a year as the Special Operations Training Detachment AOB-West Operations Officer/Exercise Control, then his final year as the Officer in Charge of AOB-W. During this time he conducted over 12 rotations observing and coaching SF AOBs and ODAs.

About the Host:

CPT Weston Rich is a member of SOF Plans at the NTC and former member of Burro Team, the Special Operations Training Detachment OC/T Team at NTC. Prior to his time at NTC, Weston served as a Detachment Commander with 1st SFG (A) and as an Infantry Officer with 3-509th IN (ABN)/4/25 ID (now part of 2/11 ABN DIV). Following his time at NTC, Weston will attend Carnegie Mellon University with a follow-on assignment to Army Futures Command.

This episode covers:

- Difference between home-station training and training at NTC

- The value of SF AOBs and ODAs conducting a rotation at NTC

- The unique and expansive resources that are brought in for a rotation at NTC

- Where and how SF AOBs integrate with conventional forces

- The focus of ARSOF training at NTC on the AOB and the value that SFOD-As receive from NTC

- What it takes to survive and operate in the desert

Please like, subscribe, comment and share these episodes with ARSOF any conventional Soldiers and Leaders to spread the knowledge of ARSOF in LSCO.

To provide feedback please email the host, CPT Rich, at weston.rich@socom.mil.

Production, editing, and sound engineering by Micah Popp of Salty Sounds