This is my rifle -- 647th SFS hosts joint-service M4 marksman competition

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt.Christopher Stoltz
  • Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Public Affairs
SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii --  Airmen, Sailors, Soldiers, Marines and Coastguardsmen had the chance to earn some bragging rights as the 647th Security Forces Squadron hosted the EIC, or Excellence in Competition M4 event, July 13-15, at the 647th Security Forces Squadron Combat Arms Firing Range, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

The event, which was open to service members of all five branches, allowed would-be marksmen to test their abilities while using the Air Force standard-issue M4 carbine rifle. Prior to the beginning of the competition, Combat Arms Instructors provided a lesson in the M4, including lessons in nomenclature and how to safely use the firearm during the EIC.

The competition was comprised of various firing positions, including: standing, kneeling, sitting and prone.

“The highest score achievable in this competition was 500,” said Staff Sgt. Derrick Koch, NCOIC, 647th Security Forces Squadron Combat Arms. “Unlike the last competition, the Air Force did not place first. Army SGT Griffin Wilde won the competition with a score of 457. The top five scores consisted of three Army Soldiers and two Airmen.”

Koch said this competition was different than the M9 iteration held in March because the platform is more forgiving and allowed for a much more competitive event.

“We notice more people are comfortable shooting the (M4) weapon system, because regardless of branch, they have shot an M4/M16A2 at some point in their career. Furthermore, the average shooter seems to perform better in terms of score with this weapon system compared to that of the M9.”

Beyond the platform itself, Koch said the competition was more popular this time due to increased interest from other branches of service. He said many offices like to compete internally to find the best marksman in their respective office.

“We are glad we are able to provide more people the ability to come out and get that trigger time to practice their fundamentals – especially those who do not have the opportunity to fire as often as they want, or need to.”

Koch said they have more competitions planned for the future, and encourage service members of all ranks and services to consider participating.

“The team and I greatly appreciate every individual who shared their time with us, competed and made this event a success,” he said. “We hope everyone enjoyed themselves and didn't leave too disappointed. If you didn’t do as well as you hoped, there’s always next time.”

According to Koch, the CATM range is not expecting to host another event until next year, due to changes in personnel and the demand of real-world requirements. Koch said he was hopeful and said they are hoping to have another competition at the beginning of 2017.

When asked, Koch said the next event will most likely feature the M9 pistol.

For more information about the EIC, or to inquire about participation, contact SSgt. Locke or the USAF Combat Arms Firing Range at (808) 655-5086.