Bridge Crewmember (21C)
- Enlisted
- Active Duty
- Army Reserve
Having a combination of combat ability and building skill is necessary when it comes to tackling rough terrain in combat situations. Bridge Crewmembers primarily serve or assist as a member of a team. The most important aspect of the Bridge Crewmember’s job is to build and provide bridges and rafts for wet and dry gap-crossing operations.
Some of your duties as a Bridge Crewmember may include:
- Operating bridge truck and light vehicles
- Preparing bridge sites
- Assisting in rafting operations
- Launching or retrieving ribbon bridge bays
- Assisting in the assembly of military bridges
- Participating in combat operations
Requirements:
Bridge Crewmembers must meet very demanding physical requirements. Agility, balance and the ability to perform strenuous physical activities over long periods of time are a necessity.
Training:
Job training for Bridge Crewmembers consists of nine weeks of Basic Training, where you’ll learn basic Soldiering skills, and six weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Your on-the-job training primarily consists of manual work in a variety of construction projects that cover the following:
- Basic construction methods
- Basic engineering principles
- Bridge building
- Road maintenance and repair
- Rough carpentry and rigging
- Use of hand and power tools
Helpful Skills:
Helpful attributes include:
- Ability to use hand and power tools
- Interest in construction and working with your hands
- Ability to think and remain calm under stress
- Interest in engineering
- Preference for working outdoors
Advanced Responsibilities:
Advanced level Bridge Crewmembers supervise and train other Soldiers. As an advanced Bridge Crewmember, you may be involved in:
- Directing construction of fighting positions and wire entanglements
- Employing M-180 demolition charges
- Conducting engineer reconnaissance
- Directing crewmembers in the assembly and maintenance of fixed bridges
- Directing crew in the assembly of raft and float bridges
- Operating or supervising the use of bridge boats
