Nebraska Cavalry Executes Helocast Training at Branched Oak Lake

RAYMOND, Neb. — For the first time in nearly a decade, Soldiers from Troop C, 1st Squadron, 134th Cavalry Regiment, took to the skies and the water when they conducted helocast insertion training at Branched Oak Lake near Lincoln, Nebraska, on Sept. 12.

The operation involved loading inflatable Zodiac boats and crews into CH-47 Chinook helicopters, flying over the reservoir, and dropping both the boats and the Soldiers directly into the water.

"It's one of our insertion methods," said Capt. Joshua Kelsey, commander of C Troop, 1-134th Cavalry Regiment, and the officer-in-charge of the training. "The goal is to get proficient at it, being confident doing it."

Approximately 70 Soldiers participated in the training, executing eight total lifts with six to seven personnel per flight. After plunging into the water, the Soldiers were tasked with swimming to their dropped boat, getting the motor running, and then navigating to shore while the helicopter returned to load the next group.

According to Kelsey, Troop C last conducted a helocast in 2017 or 2018. While the unit regularly gets the boats out to train, combining them with the helicopter insertion is a rare occurrence.

The day began early for the Beatrice-based unit, which staged at the Beatrice Armory before moving to the Branched Oak State Recreation Area. Safety was a primary focus for the operation, with three safety boats stationed around the drop zone and guards posted to ensure the area remained clear of civilians.

For many of the participating Soldiers, including Spc. Devon Speakman, it was their first time executing the maneuver.

"It was a blast, definitely nerve-wracking at the get-go, but once you hit the water, it was good," said Speakman, who has served in the Army for five years, the last two as a member of Troop C.

Speakman emphasized the importance of keeping composed and focused when conducting a helocast.

"Just breathe, don't panic," Speakman said. "Nerves get really high in the helicopter, so staying calm is key."

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