Guard marksmanship event to focus on close-quarters combat

RIVERTON — The Utah National Guard's annual marksmanship competition is putting an increased focus on close-quarters combat.

Utah Air and Army National Guard contestants will compete with more focus on their close-quarter combat weapons this year, including pistols, light machine guns and rifles. Participating airmen and soldiers will also receive professional instruction in the use of their assigned weapons during the event Saturday at Camp Williams, according to a Utah National Guard press release.

The competition will "provide a platform for Guard members to improve their combat survivability and marksmanship skills," according to the release.

On Friday, contestants will practice firing and make adjustments to their sights in order to achieve the highest possible accuracy for the actual competition Saturday and Sunday.

— Michael R. McFall