HHC, Operation Group, CMTC

• Unique Unit Designation: HHC, Operations Group, CMTC stands for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, Operations Group, at the Combat Maneuver Training Center (CMTC), which was located in Hohenfels, Germany. • Birth of Modern Training: CMTC was established in 1988 to provide realistic force-on-force training for US Army and NATO units, using the latest simulation and observer-controller techniques. • Observer Controllers ("OCs"): Members of HHC supported the elite Operations Group, whose Observer Controllers were renowned for their expertise in tactics and their iconic orange hats and vests. • Role in Reforger Exercises: The CMTC, with HHC’s support, played a vital role in the Cold War era REFORGER (Return of Forces to Germany) exercises, preparing NATO for a potential Soviet invasion. • Home of OPFOR: The Operations Group at Hohenfels was home to the 1-4 Infantry "OPFOR" (Opposing Force), who acted as the enemy for training and were considered some of the best in the world at simulating adversary tactics. • Transition to JMRC: In the mid-2000s, CMTC was redesignated as the Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC), reflecting its growing role in multinational training as well as joint operations. • Support to Deploying Units: HHC, Operations Group provided critical logistical, administrative, and command support to thousands of rotating US and allied units preparing for deployments to the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan. • High-Tech Training Aids: CMTC and its Operations Group were among the first to implement MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System), which allowed for realistic "laser tag" combat during exercises. • Historic Location: The Hohenfels training area dates back to the 1930s, originally built by the German Army, and was later used by U.S. forces after WWII. • International Partnerships: HHC, Operations Group, CMTC regularly hosted and trained alongside NATO and partner nations, fostering interoperability and building alliances that continue today under JMRC.