The Bullies train harder than any paratroopers in the "Herd" (173rd ABN BDE). They are constantly preparing themselves mentally, physically, and emotionally for the challenges that lie ahead in Afghanistan. Since June of 2004, the Bullies have participated in a number of significant training events.

In July, they traveled to Pisa where they executed joint training in the Mountains with the elite Italian Folgore Paracadusti (Parachute) Brigade. Upon returning from Pisa, the Bullies prepared for a deployment to Graphenwoer Germany where they focused on marksmanship and mental toughness (walking long distances, at night, under NODs...like men do). In September, the Bullies traveled to Hoenfels, Germany to do a rotation at the Combined Maneuver Training Center. After a three week train-up, they spent 10 days of simulated combat conducting missions similar to those they will see in Afghanistan. Immediately following Hoenfels, the Bullies traveled to Graphenwoer to conduct more ranges and in order to execute live call for fire activities, as well as a platoon live fire.

Upon redeployment the Bullies have continued Airborne training as well as MOUT, individual marksmanship, medical training, urban land navigation, and mountain training on Monte Pasubio. Pictures of all of these training events can be seen below. Enjoy the blood, sweat, and tears...we sure did!

The dreaded Folgore Obstacle Course in Pisa.