Yes, artillery soldiers absolutely see combat. While their role often involves indirect fire support from a distance, they are integral to the field of battle and are exposed to the dangers and realities of warfare.
Artillery units, including the soldiers operating the heavy guns and associated equipment, are led into battle by their officers. These leaders instruct their troops on precise positioning within the combat zone, ensuring effective fire support for frontline units. This direct involvement in the tactical deployment and operation of weaponry means artillery soldiers are undeniably participating in and exposed to combat scenarios.
Understanding Artillery Combat Roles
The combat experience for artillery soldiers can differ from that of infantry, but it is no less real. Their primary function is to provide critical fire support, but this mission inherently places them in dangerous situations.
Here are ways artillery soldiers engage in and experience combat:
- Operating in the Battle Space: Artillery positions are located within the larger combat zone, not entirely isolated from the front lines. They are strategically placed to provide effective range, which means they are still within the general area of hostilities.
- Target of Enemy Fire: Enemy forces actively seek to neutralize artillery assets through counter-battery fire, air strikes, or special operations raids. This makes artillery positions high-value targets, exposing soldiers to direct attack.
- Defense of Position: Artillery units are trained and equipped for self-defense. If their position is breached or directly threatened, artillery soldiers engage in close-quarters combat to defend their equipment and personnel.
- Logistical Support in Combat Zones: Transporting ammunition, equipment, and personnel to and from firing positions often occurs in contested or dangerous territories, exposing support elements to ambushes, IEDs, and other threats.
- Forward Observers: While not all artillery soldiers, forward observers (FOs) are integral to artillery operations. These soldiers often accompany frontline infantry units, putting them directly into the most intense combat situations to call in accurate fire support.
Ultimately, serving as an artillery soldier means being a vital part of the military's offensive and defensive capabilities, operating within the inherent risks of a combat environment. Their precision, discipline, and readiness are critical to achieving objectives and protecting friendly forces in active engagements.
