La. Guard Soldiers elevate capabilities with Type 2 Heavy Crane training
By Spc. Duncan Foote, Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office
NEW ORLEANS – This October, Louisiana National Guard Soldiers participated in a maintenance training course for the new Type 2 Heavy Crane, a crucial asset for construction operations and emergency responses. This training enhances their technical skills and prepares them to operate and maintain the equipment effectively in various mission scenarios.
The four-day training, held at Camp Villere in Slidell, Louisiana, provided Soldiers with hands-on experience in operating and maintaining the 60-ton, four-axle crane. This advanced equipment is expected to significantly enhance the LANG’s capabilities in lifting heavy loads, conducting disaster relief operations, and supporting engineering projects statewide.
“Teaching Soldiers how to fix these cranes makes it organic to the unit,” said Clifford Schmedeke, a new equipment instructor with the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM). “If the crane breaks down during live missions, Louisiana National Guard mechanics can handle repairs immediately, eliminating the need to wait for a contractor.”
Throughout the course, Soldiers learned essential skills, including safety protocols, preventive maintenance checks and troubleshooting techniques. The curriculum reinforces the practical application of these skills in real-world scenarios.
The Type 2 Heavy Crane fieldings and training are part of a broader modernization effort within the LANG to ensure that service members have access to state-of-the-art equipment and training. “The Type 2 maintenance course will help maintainers within the LANG become technically proficient in maintaining and repairing this complex but key piece of engineer equipment,” said Warrant Officer David Walker, a member of the 2225th Multi-Role Bridge Company and participant in the class. “This will maximize combat effectiveness overseas and boost humanitarian effectiveness in those units fielding this equipment.” 
The LANG remains committed to equipping its Soldiers with the tools and training they need to excel in their missions, ensuring preparedness and responsiveness.