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differences would exist between MVST users and nonusers on FIGURE 1 PID task layout.
the HVTM task.

Methods
Experimental Approach
Deidentified archival data for 52 male SOF Operators of mean
age 31.06 ± 4.10 years were provided to the investigators for
secondary analysis. Performance variables for an HVT ID and
marksmanship task were collected by the THOR3 Human
Performance Program (HPP) staff after Soldiers performed
the Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat (SFAUC) stress
shoot (9 June 2017). These data were then provided to the
primary investigators for analysis. Prior to the commencement
of this analysis, a university institutional review board (IRB)
approved this investigation (IRB #17–156). The Special Forces
Group and the Army Human Research Protections Office also
granted permission to conduct this research. Furthermore, this
investigation followed procedures in accordance with the eth- Shooting Confederation (IPSC) measurements), as well as time
ical standard of the Helsinki Declaration for human subjects. to complete this task.

Procedures For the purpose of addressing the research question, an over-
The HVTM task was performed immediately after Operators all HVTM score (Score) was created using weighted scores
performed an SFAUC stress shoot. The protocol utilized for (33.3% each) for each of the three main components (i.e., PID
the SFAUC stress shoot has been described in detail by Can- Accuracy, Shot Accuracy, and Kill Shot) of this drill. These
2
ada et al. While Canada et al. also described the HVTM task scores were used to identify success as defined by accurately
utilized in this investigation, it has been described here for the acquiring the target (i.e., recognition), shooting the correct
reader’s convenience. target (i.e., accuracy), and shooting with precision to ensure
mitigation of the threat (i.e., lethality).
HVT ID and Marksmanship Task (HVTM) Procedures
and Scoring Criteria Overview of Mental and Visual Skills Training
Prior to the stress shoot, Soldiers were allowed up to 2 min- (MVST) Services
utes to study the faces of two high-value targets. Each face A variety of MVST methods specific to marksmanship were
was printed on a baseball card–sized piece of paper. At the utilized throughout the Soldiers’ training. While we are un-
conclusion of the SFAUC stress shoot, the Soldiers completed able to provide specific details due to security issues, typical
a positive identification (PID) recall and engagement task. This forms of MST included target recognition and engagement
task required Soldiers to visually search and discriminate 24 contingent on visual and auditory information, concentration
faces, presented on a 4-in × 8-in sheet of plywood at a 5-meter exercises, and PID simulation exercises (Figure 2). All MVST
distance (Figure 1). Only one of their target faces were avail- training sessions were designed by a Cognitive Performance
able to engage, requiring exhibitory and inhibitory executive Specialist and integrated into the Soldier’s physical training
functioning for task success. Soldiers had 10 seconds to com- sessions.
plete the task. Failure to engage the target within 10 seconds
resulted in a failing score. Data were collected on positive Common VT methods included Brock String training, transi-
identification (PID Accuracy), Shot Accuracy, and Kill Shot tional near/far and object identification exercises via saccades,
(i.e., shots within the head “A zone” by International Practical and/or tracking. Soldiers engaged in such forms of training

FIGURE 2 Bartley MVST
implementation model.

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