Cannon Crewmember (13B)
- Enlisted
- Active Duty
- Army Reserve
- Closed to Women
A Cannon Crewmember is an important part of the Army’s success on the battlefield. Artillery teams are used to support infantry and tank units in combat, but also have responsibilities during peacetime. Cannon Crewmembers work on cannons known as ‘howitzers,’ a heavy artillery machine piece with single-barrel firing capability.
Here are some of the duties of a Cannon Crewmember:
- Starts and maintains wire and radio communications
- Identifies target locations
- Operates self-propelled howitzers, ammunition trucks and other vehicles
Requirements:
Cannon Crewmembers constantly lift heavy objects and perform strenuous activity for long periods without rest. Being in top physical and mental shape is definitely a plus. Normal color vision is also required in order to read color-coded ammunition, maps, and charts.
Training:
Job training for a Cannon Crewmember requires nine weeks of Basic Training and 14 weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Part of this time is spent in a classroom and part in the field under simulated combat conditions. Some of the skills you will learn are:
- Methods of calculating targets electronically and manually
- Handling ammunition
- Operating gun, missile and rocket systems
- Artillery tactics and battle strategy
Helpful Skills:
Helpful attributes include:
- Interest in rocket and cannon operations
- Ability to take on challenges and remain calm under stress
- Top physical and mental shape
- Ability to work as a team member
Advanced Responsibilities:
Advanced level Cannon Crewmembers supervise other crewmembers and the distribution of ammunition to other units. Advanced Cannon Crewmembers manage cannon operations, training and maintenance. They are also responsible for positioning weapons in the right direction and maintaining all support vehicles.
