Simulated ammo cleared for use at Mass. base

[unhappycamper]

Simulated ammo cleared for use at Mass. base
The Associated Press
Posted : Tuesday Mar 17, 2009 12:09:43 EDT

FALMOUTH, Mass. — Massachusetts environmental regulators have approved the use of simulated bullets for National Guard training at Camp Edwards.

The Environmental Management Commission, which oversees environmental issues at the Cape Cod base, unanimously approved the so-called “simunitions” at a meeting Monday.

Executive Director Mark Begley tells the Cape Cod Times the wax-tipped bullets are encased in aluminum and contain a small amount of lead in the primer.

Michael Ciaranca of the National Guard said the bullets leave a colored dot similar to a paintball and feel like a bee sting. He says they will give soldiers more realistic training.

Officials are working on ways to contain the bullets on target ranges and will pick up the shells in other areas.


Article at: http://armytimes.com/news/2009/03/ap_simulated_bullets_guard_031709w/%2e