Tech. Sgt. Gerardo Balsa and Staff Sgt. Grant Cozart of the 105th Airlift Wing graduated from the Brazilian Jungle Warfare School, marking a historic achievement for their unit. Their training emphasized survival skills, combat tactics, and cultural exchange, preparing them for operations in austere environments.
Two members of the 105th Airlift Wing’s Base Defense Group, New York Air Guardsmen Tech. Sgt. Gerardo Balsa and Staff Sgt. Grant Cozart, graduated from the prestigious Brazilian Jungle Warfare School on November 22, 2024. They are the first individuals from their unit to complete this esteemed program, which began accepting participants from the New York National Guard in 2019, following a training agreement with Brazil.
The Brazilian Jungle Warfare School, known as CIGS in Portuguese, is located in Manaus, the capital of the Amazonas state. Established to develop military units that can effectively utilize the Amazon rainforest, CIGS has earned a reputation as one of the most challenging military training programs globally, focusing on jungle survival, combat tactics, and navigation.
Cozart noted, “It’s a place where you quickly learn that the jungle doesn’t conform to you – you conform to the jungle.” This rigorous two-month course includes intense physical challenges, survival skills training, and cultural immersion, equipping military personnel with essential jungle combat knowledge.
To prepare for their attendance, Balsa and Cozart underwent extensive pre-selection, which involved swimming fully clothed, flotation exercises, running in combat boots, and carrying heavy loads. Balsa emphasized the holistic approach of their unit in considering physical fitness, mission dedication, and the capability to represent the wing as part of the selection process.
Training at CIGS encompassed not only physical endurance but also adaptability to the specific demands of the jungle environment. These skills included handling snakes, purifying water, constructing shelters, and advanced combat operations such as shooting and patrolling in varied conditions.
Cozart remarked, “The hardest thing about the course is dealing with that environment while also doing everything else you’d normally do with combat operations.” This combination of physicality and focus on maintaining operational readiness is integral to the training’s success.
Cultural insights were a standout aspect for both graduates, with Balsa remarking on Brazil’s commitment to safeguarding the Amazon. “CIGS’ unwavering dedication to protecting and defending the Amazon is truly inspiring,” he stated, reflecting the generous sharing of knowledge embraced by the Brazilian military.
The mission of CIGS aligns with Brazil’s efforts to secure the Amazon rainforest against threats such as environmental damage and military challenges. Graduates learn to navigate the jungle for defensive purposes while also preparing for combat scenarios.
Balsa and Cozart view their graduation as an essential contribution to the Air Force’s evolving strategy, particularly regarding Agile Combat Employment in austere environments. Balsa explained, “Participating in the international course and working with different nations allowed us… to enhance our adaptability,” showcasing the importance of cross-cultural military cooperation.
The completion of the course signifies a historic achievement for the 105th Base Defense Group, enhancing their readiness to undertake diverse operational environments. As Cozart expressed, “It was such an extreme honor to be out there,” highlighting the respect for the Brazilian commitment to forest preservation.
The recent graduation of Tech. Sgt. Gerardo Balsa and Staff Sgt. Grant Cozart from the Brazilian Jungle Warfare School marks a significant achievement for the 105th Airlift Wing. Their training emphasized both physical resilience and adaptability to operate effectively in diverse environments. The cultural exchange and operational experience gained will benefit their unit and contribute to the broader goals of the Air Force.
Original Source: www.105aw.ang.af.mil
