Howitzer Thunder: Marines Bring the Fire at Twentynine Palms

by Jose Campos

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. — The desert air trembled as Marines unleashed the first rounds from a M777 Howitzer during Service Level Training Exercise this month. Dust plumes curled in the heat, smoke trailing each shell as it streaked toward a distant target.

The SLTE is more than a drill – it’s a crucible. Marines operate as a complete Marine Air Ground Task Force, coordinating artillery, infantry, and air support under conditions designed to mimic the intensity of real combat. Every shot, every adjustment, sharpens skills that could one day save lives on the battlefield.

This unit from 2nd Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, got down to it on Aug. 5.

Amid the rumble and recoil, their focus never wavered. For them, this is the grind that turns training into readiness, ensuring they can bring coordinated, precise firepower wherever it’s needed—fast, fierce, and unflinching.

Jose Campos covers security for Soldier of Fortune.