A Fort Leavenworth unit is preparing for a large-scale training exercise with the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, part of a series of trainings meant to improve readiness across the Army.

Fort Leavenworth’s 35th Infantry Division is conducting the trainings as part of a string of initiatives focusing on proficiency in the new division alignment structure, according to a report from the Army.

In June, a contingent from the 35th ID traveled to Tennessee to support one of their six aligned brigades, the 230th Sustainment Brigade, during their annual training and command post exercise (CPX).

Division alignment increases readiness for potential large-scale combat operations and improves talent management across the force.

“As the Army reorients to the division as the unit of action on the battlefield in preparation for the next conflict — wherever and whenever that may be — it is critical for the 35th ID and its aligned brigades to work together to build relationships, share best practices, and understand processes and procedures so we are synchronized and ready for whatever is next,” said Lt. Col. Jason Inskeep, 35th ID deputy chief of staff, operations.

The training scenario used for the CPX was one in which the units were deployed in support of a global contingency warfighter mission.

Maj. Ryan Mincey, operations officer for the 230th, attributed the quality of training during the exercise to extensive planning and preparation done at every stage.

Mincey explained that it can be difficult to achieve effective and realistic training for a sustainment brigade staff outside of a division-level warfighter, but that ultimately the CPX was able to exceed his expectations.

“Initially, training at this level in our motor pool seemed unfeasible,” said Mincey. “However, the event was successfully executed with a concerted effort from the brigade staff and plenty of command guidance.”

Another factor to the overall quality of the training was the expertise added by training partners like the National Guard’s Mission Command Training Support Team.

“We have talented personnel who dedicated many hours to creating a realistic “virtual” training environment,” Mincey said. “Their efforts made it easy to immerse in the training entirely. After hours of battle rhythm meetings and observing the staff take the training seriously, I felt like I was in the country our exercise was simulating.”

As the 35th ID turns its attention toward the next major training event, a combined command post exercise with the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, the staff members will take what they’ve learned and put it to the test, preparing to meet the national security objectives of the future.