MISSOULA, Mont. — Montana Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 631st Chemical Company participated in Northern Strike 26-2 at Camp Grayling Aug. 2-14, conducting a company-level field training exercise designed to test the unit’s ability to operate independently and execute a wide range of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) missions.
Northern Strike is an Army-sponsored, multicomponent, multinational exercise conducted annually in Michigan and designed to build readiness and improve interoperability among U.S. and allied forces.
The 631st mobilized to Northern Strike with its weapons, equipment and vehicles, allowing the company to conduct sustained operations throughout the exercise. From Aug. 4-11, the company conducted a field training exercise that included command post operations, mounted and dismounted CBRN reconnaissance, and dismounted decontamination operations.
The company’s mounted platoon operated four Strykers across Camp Grayling’s varied training areas, conducting reconnaissance missions through multiple types of terrain. Meanwhile, the dismounted platoon incorporated unmanned aircraft systems and robotic platforms to conduct reconnaissance, allowing Soldiers to identify and assess potential hazards from a safer distance.
The environment required Soldiers to solve logistical and operational challenges while continuing to accomplish the company’s assigned missions.
“Our Soldiers took on these challenges with professionalism and focus. 631st was able to execute a wide variety of missions and was evaluated on our collective mission essential tasks by First Army,” said Capt. Caleb Struble, commander of the 631st Chemical Company.
The company was evaluated by First Army, providing leaders and Soldiers an opportunity to assess the unit’s readiness under demanding field conditions.
“We trained hard and I am proud of what we were able to accomplish,” Struble said. “The [Soldiers] learned a lot and are better prepared as we move into training year 2027.”
The training strengthened the 631st Chemical Company’s readiness and lethality while reinforcing the “Montana Way” — disciplined Soldiers who adapt, overcome challenges and remain ready to accomplish the mission.