Yes, 13B (Cannon Crew Member) is considered a combat Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) in the U.S. Army. This role is integral to direct combat operations by providing essential fire support to ground forces.
Understanding Combat MOS
A Combat MOS typically refers to roles that are directly engaged in combat operations or are critical to offensive and defensive actions on the battlefield. These roles are often categorized under "Combat Arms" branches of the military. While direct engagement might conjure images of infantry soldiers on the front line, combat MOS roles encompass all positions that actively participate in or directly enable the destruction of enemy forces or the defense against them.
The Role of an Army Cannon Crew Member (13B)
Cannon Crew Members operate and maintain artillery systems, primarily howitzers. These are heavy artillery machines equipped with single-barrel firing capabilities. The primary function of a 13B is to provide indirect fire support, which means firing shells at targets that may not be within the direct line of sight of the artillery piece.
Key aspects of the 13B role include:
- Operating Howitzers: Mastering the technical skills required to load, aim, and fire howitzers.
- Ammunition Handling: Managing and preparing various types of artillery ammunition.
- Field Operations: Deploying, setting up, and displacing artillery pieces rapidly in diverse combat environments.
- Teamwork: Working as part of an artillery team to ensure coordinated and effective fire missions.
Why 13B is a Combat MOS
The classification of 13B as a combat MOS stems directly from its critical function in wartime. Artillery teams, composed of Cannon Crew Members, are specifically utilized to support infantry and tank units in combat. Their powerful indirect fire capabilities are essential for:
- Neutralizing Enemy Positions: Destroying enemy strongpoints, fortifications, and personnel.
- Suppressive Fire: Pinning down enemy forces, allowing friendly units to maneuver.
- Defensive Support: Breaking up enemy attacks and providing cover for retreating forces.
Even though Cannon Crew Members might not always be the first to engage the enemy with small arms in a direct firefight, their primary mission revolves around delivering devastating firepower to support ground combat units. Their weapons are designed for battle, and their presence is vital to the success of combat missions. While they also have responsibilities during peacetime, their fundamental role in supporting active combat operations solidifies their status as a combat MOS.
For more information on various Army MOS classifications and their roles, you can explore resources like GoArmy.com.
Examples of Combat MOS Roles
The U.S. Army classifies several MOS roles as combat-oriented due to their direct involvement in offensive or defensive operations. Here's a brief comparison:
| MOS Code | MOS Title | Primary Combat Role |
|---|---|---|
| 13B | Cannon Crewmember | Provides indirect fire support to ground units with howitzers. |
| 11B | Infantryman | Engages enemy forces directly on the ground; often the front-line combatant. |
| 19D | Cavalry Scout | Conducts reconnaissance and security operations; often engages in direct combat. |
| 12B | Combat Engineer | Facilitates movement and maneuver of friendly forces and impedes the enemy; involved in demolitions and breaching. |
These roles are all considered combat MOS because their core functions involve direct engagement with or direct support of units engaged with the enemy in combat zones.
