The accompanying video documents U.S. Army Soldiers receiving hands-on instruction on the Counter-Rocket, Artillery and Mortar system, commonly known as C-RAM. The footage follows Soldiers as they work with the system under the guidance of an experienced air defense crewmember and apply information introduced during training.

The U.S. Army describes C-RAM as a collection of subsystems that work together to identify, track, engage and destroy incoming rocket, artillery and mortar threats. The system was developed in response to operational requirements identified during military operations in Iraq in 2004.

Training is required for personnel to understand their individual duties and the procedures associated with the system. An Army report on C-RAM certification documented Soldiers completing training and recertification in both engagement operations cells and at the weapon system. The report also described the use of observer, coach and trainers during certification.

Joshua Crawford, a 14P Air and Missile Defense Crewmember, instructed Soldiers during the training shown in the video. According to the Army’s official career description, 14P crewmembers operate and maintain air defense weapons systems.

“Once everything’s hands-on, things start to click, and they actually get pretty proficient,” Crawford said.

Crawford also explained that instruction must account for differences among the Soldiers being trained. He said instructors must learn each person and understand their personality to determine how to teach them the weapon system.

The practical instruction shown in the video allowed Soldiers to interact directly with the system while receiving guidance from Crawford. Instead of only hearing an explanation of the equipment, participants completed tasks as Crawford observed their performance and provided instruction.

The Army also uses simulation technology as part of C-RAM instruction. The Air Defense Artillery School’s virtual C-RAM classrooms provide trainees with simulated system functions without risking physical damage to operational equipment.

The video provides a close look at how technical information is reinforced through practical application. It also documents Crawford’s approach to training Soldiers based on their individual learning needs while developing their ability to work with the C-RAM system.