COURSE OVERVIEW:

The primary mission of the SDM is to deploy as a member of the rifle squad. The SDM is a vital member of his individual squad and not a squad sniper. He fires and maneuvers with this squad and performs all the duties of the standard rifleman. The SDM has neither the equipment nor training to operate individually nor in a small team to engage targets at extended ranges with precision fire.

The secondary mission of the SDM is to engage key targets from 100 to 600-meters with effective, well-aimed fires using the standard weapon system and standard ammunition. He may or may not be equipped with an optic. Therefore, the SDM must possess an above-average level of proficiency in rifle marksmanship as well as a mastery of ballistics, elevation and windage hold-off, range estimation, MOA, and sight manipulation.

The SDM can also be used to help direct the fire of other squad members into enemy positions. Due to the increased skill level required for his position, the SDM must maintain a high level of proficiency through continued training of the required skills.

The platoon sergeant and squad leaders must take special consideration in selecting the SDM. The SDM must have a solid marksmanship performance, must have a clear understanding of the shot process, and must be able to apply these fundamentals consistently during dry-fire and live-fire training. Even though the SDM in the field will be the junior enlisted, the immediate supervisor must know the capabilities of the SDM. Selected soldiers must bring a copy of their last M16/M4 series qualification scorecard showing a qualification of at least Sharpshooter. Selected soldiers must be in the pay grade of E-2 through E-7 and O-1 through O-2. All applications must be made through the ATRRS system.

Students must bring the following items:

• ACU/OCP cap w/ rank and name tape. (1)
• ACU/OCP coat (3)
• ACU/OCP pants (3)
• T-shirt, tan (4)
• Belt, tan riggers belt 
• Boots, desert (2)
• Socks, black, tan or green (4)
• Underwear (optional)
• ID tags (2) long and short-chain (1)
• Military ID card (1)
• Running shoes (optional)
• White socks (optional)
• Ballistic Helmet (Kevlar) or ACH w/ helmet band, chin strap, and cover (1) 
• Earplugs w/ case
• Current Load Bearing System (LBV, etc….)
• Gloves (range operations)
• Polypro Top or Field Jacket Liner (1) seasonal
• Personal Protective Eyewear (PPE) (1)
• Camelback (if available)
• Personal Hygiene kit (1)
• Gortex Jacket/Pants (w/ name and rank)(1), 
• Towels (2)
• Lock combination or key (1)
• Pens, black ink
• Laundry soap (1)
• Note Pad (1)
• Sleeping Bag
• Assault Pack
• Calculator
• Writing material for taking notes.
• Copy of most recent weapon qualification scorecard.
• Five copies of your orders.
• Government Travel Card or enough money for personal needs and meals.**

Unauthorized items:

• Dietary supplements are not authorized for use by any person at any time throughout the course.
• No cellular phones or pagers during duty hours
• No fixed blade or folding knives over 4 inches

** It is the responsibility of the Soldier to ensure that he/she has been issued a Government Travel Card, obtains a travel advance, or otherwise can cover all expenses before departing home station.**

Open bay billeting will be available to the students. You will report to Building 4901 for further billeting information. You may bring comfort items such as a pillow, blanket, clock radio, ice chest, etc. DO NOT REPORT TO POST BILLETING. ALL STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO STAY IN ASSIGNED OPEN BAY BILLETING DURING THIS COURSE.

Questions concerning the SDM course may be directed to the NGMTC Marksmanship Training Battalion, (DSN) 962-4381/4530 (Commercial) (501) 212-4381/4530 or click here to CONTACT US.

For a current listing of all our school dates, please search the ATRRS Course Catalog under the appropriate fiscal year. Course Number MTC-005.