Mortarman

[shark6485]

I recieved my MOS today for the Marine reserves and got 0331. Had a few questions.

Just wondering, what exactly does a mortarman do and how does it differ then an 0311 in terms of training he will recieve?

Can 0331s also go to specialized schools such as Scout/Swimmer and MOUT?

Can 0331s serve as members of trailer platoons and things of that nature?

If I was to switch to active duty in a few years and had spent a few years in the reserves as an 0331, would it be possible to switch to an 0311 in active duty?
Thanks.

[shark6485]

Sorry I meant 0341 MOS. Thanks.

[namgrunt]

I wasn't a mortarman, but I can tell you it is a highly important MOS. Mortarmen are essentially close support short range "artillery", under direct control of an infantry battalion commander. The large tubes are 81mm, while the smaller tubes are 60mm. Both are crewserved, and hand carried.
Mortarmen handle firemissions in support of infantry units as they maneuver, or while in defensive perimeter and under attack. They also provide illumination during night battles, if required. Crews may be assigned to company sized units for operations, and provide extra punch for assaulting units as well as taking out emplacements.

A good mortar crew can drop a round right in your hip pocket. It is a vital MOS. Learn your job well.

As for going to other schools, I couldn't address that, since I've been out of the Corps for many years. Have you asked your recruiter? He would have that sort of information available.

Good luck, and work hard
namgrunt

[mrbsox]

Smooth bore, muzzle loaded, air cooled, high angle of fire crew served weapon.

Firing upwards at a high degree angle, the round then drops nearly true vertical. The advantage of mortars is the ability to fire INTO trenches, as well as onto the reverse slope of a hill.

Ammunition includes;
HE- High Explosive, composition B
WP- White Phosphorous, smoke, fire starter
Illum- Illumination for night observation, H&I

Fuses include;
PD- Point detonating, explodes on contact; open areas, troops
Delay- .05second ?? allows for penetration before detonation; buildings, etc.
VT- Variable time, bursts after a specified flight time, or air burst within a specified distance, as determined by radio waves from the fuse

'Search and Traverse' is a tactic where by the mortars 'walk' rounds upon a target, across an area, or in front of advancing troops (with caution).

60mm
Attached to the rifle company, and used at the discretion of the company commander. May be detached directly to a specific platoon, in support of it's mission. Most effective an 'platoon strength', where multiple rounds can impact a position simultaniously.

81mm
Same as above, except at Battalion level. Maximum effective range @5900 meters, bursting (killing) range 30x40 meters,

But I guess I could be taking all the fun out of school if I kept going.

Learn the weapon, the uses, learn FDC, special sheafs (go to school) :p the ammo. Ammo NCO is where you want to be in the Platoon.

Terry

0341: You order, we mortar

[mrbsox]

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/m252.htm (http://)

I stand corrected on the @5900 meters maxeff range... says in here @5600 and change

Cool site for whatever you want to get into

[mrbsox]

Bipod... 42 lbs
Barrel... 28 lbs
baseplate... 28 lbs (1 piece)
56 lbs (2 piece)

Ahhhhhh..... the memories of humping that MoFo all over Gods green earth :banana: :marine:

[Osotogary]

mrbsox,
How about the weight of each of the different mortar rounds? How many rounds do each of the crew carry?

[mrbsox]

The link doesn't seem to work:confused:

The M821A2, M821A1 and M889A1 High Explosive Cartridges are designed for use with the M252 81mm Mortar System and are used against personnel, bunker and light materiel targets. The high fragmentation steel projectile is loaded with Composition B explosive. The cartridges are identical with the exception of the fuze. The M821A2 is equipped with the M734A1 Multi-Option Fuze which can be set to function in the Proximity, Impact, or Delay mode. The M821A1 is equipped with the M734 Multi-Option Fuze. The M889A1 is equipped with the M935 Point Detonating Fuze which functions in the Impact mode. Each M821A2/821A1/889A1 is packed in a fiber container and three packed rounds are assembled into a PA156 Metal Container.

@9.1 lb
3 per case

There used to be a vest, where the 'ammo man' could carry 3 rds. Not very practicle with flak jackets and modern gear.

We used the M274A2 'mule'. 1/4 ton flat bed motorized platform. 2 cylinder contential air cooled, pull start, 4 wheel drive.

[Osotogary]

mrbsox,
The link does work.....only after you asked the question. (LOL)
Send me to the chalk board and have me write a thousand times, "Thou shalt refer to mortar website BEFORE asking a question about mortar weights." I have been duly schooled.
Gary(osotogary)

[mrbsox]

lol

Thanks gary !!!

Tell your devil dog your learning about his job, and ask him about an M125 'motorized' 81mm mortar.

You keep us smiling... I can at least try to return the favor :)

[namgrunt]

I remember "mules." They hauled anything you could imagine up to and including a 106mm Recoiless Rifle, mounted by removing a round base hole cover in the middle of the bed. A hitch on the rear of the bed allowed for the attachment of a plain flatbed for hauling the 106's ammo. You could call it the first ATV with swing-away steering. They also tipped over too easily.