Chapter 39: Operation The Benefits of XCOM Training


XCOM-MEMO-74G9

XCOM Memorandum

Author: Training Sergeant Alicia Monroe

Title: Summary of XCOM Training Batch XY-43

Abstract:

The phrase 'Barely adequate' does not begin to describe some of the latest batch of recruits. While there are some that have distinguished themselves in multiple fields of mental and physical capabilities, these appear to be the exception. Key incidents of note are detailed below.


Trainee: Squaddie Adrian Taylor

Training Exercise: Observation Trial

Abstract: Trainee failed to identify a total of 95% of observation targets. This included concealed soldiers, supply caches, heavy weapon emplacements and a main battle tank.


Trainee: Squaddie Laura Smith

Training Exercise: Wilderness Navigation

Abstract: Trainee failed to report to first and second rendezvous points within the allocated time. They arrived at third rendezvous point two hours behind schedule. When asked what navigational aids that had used during the exercise, trainee replied that they had found a river a followed it. When asked how they found the river, trainee replied that they fell in. When asked how they found the third point, trainee replied that they had been looking for the first point.


Trainee: Squaddie Takashi Katano

Training Exercise: Evasion by Night

Abstract: Trainee was identified and detained almost immediately after the exercise began. Post exercise debrief identified the probable cause for their swift arrest was due to their non-regulation hair gel which glowed under low light conditions.


Trainee: Squaddie Elaina Marquez

Training Exercise: Firing Range (Assault Rifle)

Abstract: Accuracy of less than 5%, appeared to hit everything except the intended target.


Trainee: Squaddie Michael Chiu

Training Exercise: Live Fire Simulated Engagement

Abstract: Trainee used a senior officer as a human shield.


Trainee: Squaddie Raymond North

Training Exercise: Field Medic Training

Abstract: Attempted CPR for a bullet wound to the head.


Trainee: Squaddie Alexander Fedorovich

Training Exercise: Room Clearance (Breach and Clear)

Abstract: Trainee climbed a drainpipe and entered through a skylight into the middle of a group of enemy combatants instead of entering by the easily accessible door.

Addendum: While an admirable display of unconventional tactics it nonetheless proved ineffective in this instance.


Trainee: Squaddie Lewis Eggmun

Training Exercise: Checkpoint Training

Abstract: Interrogated suspect on the contents of their bag, papers, jacket pockets and bowels. Neglected to notice the block of practice C4 explosive concealed in the suspect's hat.


Trainee: Squaddie Rupert Bright

Training Exercise: Combined SHIV Training

Abstract: Rode a SHIV into battle, called it XCOM Mechanised Infantry.


Trainee: Squaddie Michael Chiu

Training Exercise: Hostage Negotiation Training

Abstract: Trainee is presented with a hostage scenario involving a captured senior officer and must negotiate their release. Trainee chose to shoot the hostage to allow a clear shot to terminate the hostage taker.

Addendum: While an admirable display of unconventional tactics it nonetheless proved ineffective in this instance as the hostage was shot was in the head.


Trainee: Squaddie Abagail Wright

Training Exercise: Night Reconnaissance

Abstract: Trainee had difficulty reading the map with the night vision goggles. Trainee chose to turn on a flashlight to see it better and blinded themselves.


Trainee: Multiple Squaddies

Training Exercise: None

Abstract: Group of trainees used Archangel and Titan armour, the most advanced armour in existence, for a live fire shootout in the hanger.

Addendum: I would not trust many of this lot to handle a kettle much less reverse engineered alien technology.


Trainee: Multiple Squaddies

Training Exercise: None

Abstract: Multiple trainees have been identified to be creating sappy fanart of the aliens.

Addendum: While not a direct violation of XCOM regulations if done while off duty it does present a potential security risk.

Recommend further training, detailed security screening and court martial as necessary for all those involved.

END OF REPORT


XCOM-MAIL-39N2

FROM: XCOM Commander (Dictated)

TO: Training Sergeant Alicia Monroe

SUBJECT: RE: XCOM Training Batch XY-43

MESSAGE: When life gives you lemons, make combustible lemons.

END OF MESSAGE


XCOM-MAIL-39M1

FROM: Training Sergeant Alicia Monroe

TO: Central Officer Bradford

SUBJECT: Clarification Request RE: XCOM Training Batch XY-43

MESSAGE: RE: XCOM Training Batch XY-43, the Commander seems to be proposing some form of manned explosive suicide detachment. Please advise.

END OF MESSAGE


XCOM-MAIL-39M2

FROM: Central Officer Bradford

TO: Training Sergeant Alicia Monroe

SUBJECT: RE: Clarification Request RE: XCOM Training Batch XY-43

MESSAGE: Truth is, under the Commander, every mission is a suicide mission.

END OF MESSAGE


XCOM Rule 1367: All XCOM personnel are required to undertake all mandatory training as directed by your supervisor or direct superior.

XCOM Rule 1367a: Training cannot be missed in cases of serve illness, dismemberment, madness, explosive diarrhoea or death unless officially directed by XCOM medical personnel.