Wyoming Guard Expands Field Artillery with Rocket Training

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A U.S. Army High Mobility Artillery Rocket System moves to a new position during a 13M transition course field training exercise at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming, March 20, 2026. The exercise simulates real-world operations, requiring crews to maneuver between firing points and execute missions under time constraints.
(Photo Credit: Joseph Coslett)

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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Austin Paulsen, an instructor with the Wyoming National Guard Regional Training Institute, operates a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during a 13M transition course field training exercise at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming, March 20, 2026. The training allows Soldiers to operate as full HIMARS crews in a realistic environment, building proficiency and confidence.
(Photo Credit: Joseph Coslett)

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U.S. Army Sgt. Tye Jarrard, left, of Kaycee, Wyoming, and Spc. Justin Gorecki, of Detroit, Michigan, operates a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during a 13M transition course field training exercise at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming, March 20, 2026. The exercise allows Soldiers to operate as full HIMARS crews, building confidence and reinforcing team coordination.
(Photo Credit: Joseph Coslett)

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Spc. Justin Gorecki, a 13M transition course student assigned to the 182nd Forward Support Company, Michigan National Guard, operates a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System during a field training exercise at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming, March 20, 2026. The training simulates real-world operations, requiring crews to maneuver and execute missions under time constraints.
(Photo Credit: Joseph Coslett)

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CAMP GUERNSEY, Wyo. – The Wyoming National Guard expanded its field artillery capability by training Soldiers March 20 in one of the Army’s most in-demand roles, the 13M High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) crew member.

At the Regional Training Institute in Guernsey, Soldiers from across the force are attending a 13M MOS transition course, learning how to operate and support one of the Army’s most lethal and mobile weapon systems. The course prepares experienced Soldiers from other career fields to serve on HIMARS crews.

“This course enables Soldiers who are already trained in another specialty to become qualified HIMARS crew members,” said Capt. Matthew Buchanan, operations officer and officer in charge at the RTI. “There’s a growing demand for this capability across the Army, and Wyoming is part of that growth.”

That demand is tied to how the Army is changing. HIMARS has proven its effectiveness in modern conflicts, increasing the need for long-range precision fires. As units expand, so does the need for trained crews, including within Wyoming’s 2nd Battalion, 300th Field Artillery Regiment.

“Every HIMARS battalion is growing,” Buchanan said. “We’re adding batteries, and that means we need more trained Soldiers. This course allows us to build that capability here at home.”

Students arrive with a wide range of experience. Many have spent years in other military occupational specialties before transitioning into field artillery.

“We encourage them to bring that experience with them,” said Staff Sgt. Jeremy Larkey, of Riverton, Wyoming, lead instructor. “Every background adds something to the team, whether it’s maintenance, communications or logistics.”

The course blends classroom instruction with hands-on training. Soldiers learn system components, safety procedures and operational concepts before applying those skills in practical exercises.

“There’s a lot of information,” Larkey said. “But the goal isn’t to memorize everything. It’s to give them a foundation so they can continue learning when they get to their unit.”

Training builds toward a field training exercise where students operate as full HIMARS crews in a realistic environment.

“It’s about building confidence,” said Staff Sgt. Austin Paulsen, of Thermopolis, Wyoming, an instructor. “We want them to go back to their units, contribute immediately and keep improving.”

Beyond technical skills, leaders emphasize the mission’s purpose.

“HIMARS gives the Army the ability to reach targets at long distances and shape the battlefield,” Buchanan said. “When you’re part of that, you’re part of something bigger than yourself.”

As the Wyoming National Guard continues to grow its field artillery capability, the 13M transition course is preparing Soldiers for that mission.

Wyoming Guard Expands Field Artillery with Rocket Training | Article

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