What was basic training like

The White Phase also known as the Rifleman or Gunfighter Phase focuses on developing your combat skills, with special emphasis on weapons and physical fitness training. You'll learn how to identify, track, target and engage targets with a rifle. It's all about marksmanship. Spending time on these skills also hones your self-discipline and teamwork. By now, you'll start to get the hang of military life. You may even think your drill sergeant is noticing your improvement.

You're developing all the essential soldier skills, which you'll put together in the next phase. The final phase of BCT -- the Blue, or Warrior, Phase -- will build your individual tactical training, increase your leadership skills and self-discipline, and improve your understanding of teamwork. It also will include challenges and tests you'll have to pass in order to graduate from BCT.

It's time to dig deep. The final week of BCT is about soldiers and their families. After you finish the final training events one week of field training and a kilometer march back to the post , you'll receive a day with your family to catch up on your recent experiences -- and you'll have plenty to discuss. The next day, you'll graduate before moving on to your next phase of training usually advanced individual training, or AIT.

We can put you in touch with recruiters from the different military branches. Learn about the benefits of serving your country, paying for school, military career paths, and more: sign up now and hear from a recruiter near you. He describes what life A casket containing the unidentified remains of a WWI soldier was carried in a horse-drawn wagon into Arlington National Get the scoop on discounts and latest award-winning military content.

The Red Phase, including general orientation, lasts the first three weeks. This is when you receive your uniform and Army-issued haircut and learn soldier fundamentals, core values, traditions and ethics.

You will learn about CBRN readiness and how to use breathing mask. Completing the Red Phase earns you an Army unit patch for your uniform. This two-week phase introduces you to weapons training, including the basics of rifle marksmanship and maintenance.

Physical training kicks up to the next level with obstacle courses and rappelling from a foot Warrior Tower. Warrior Tasks and Battle Drills are tactical proficiencies that are the foundations of your soldier skills. Battle Drills are team-based tactical skills. Survive: Requires dealing with dangerous situations.

You must know how to react to direct and indirect fire, hand-to-hand combat, disarm and avoid explosive devices and give first aid. These team-based exercises help you learn to work with other members of your unit. They include:. In weeks six through nine, you will get an overview of convoy operations and learn field training exercises and military operations in urban terrain. You will also learn additional weapons training and rifle marksmanship.

The final test will be a multiple-day land navigation course that tests survival, fitness and soldier skills. Before you can graduate from BCT and wear the Army beret, you must pass final requirements. Completing any other tactical field training or situation training exercises. After you have graduated, you will move on to AIT school. You will be assigned to an AIT school depending on your Army job. This is where you receive extensive hands-on training and instruction to make you an expert in that specific career field.

AIT schools include:. Related: U. If you are committed to joining the Army, here are few tips to help prepare for basic training:. Take some time to research military life. While the Army boot camp helps prepare you for becoming a soldier, it is not everyday Army life. Take the time to learn the Army's mission statement, different rankings and your possible career path Your research can help you make an informed decision.

The Army physical fitness test includes cardio, strength and endurance, flexibility and body composition. Specific exercises include the deadlift, standing power throw, hand-raised push-ups, meter sprint, drag and carry, leg tuck and a two-mile run. Give yourself time, usually six to eight weeks, to build up to the minimum requirements or more to pass the physical fitness test. Introduction Congratulations! Where is Army Basic Combat Training?

What to Bring to Basic Training Wondering what personal items you can bring to make life more pleasant? In general, the personal items you can bring include: 1. Casual, Comfortable Clothing Also bring white underwear, calf-length white athletic socks, a pair of running shoes and your eyeglasses.

Combination Lock or Padlock One lock is required, either a combination lock or a padlock with two keys. Toiletries Required items include a toothbrush with case, hairbrush or comb, one washcloth and towel, antiperspirant, shower shoes flip-flops , toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, soap and a soap case, a disposable razor or safety razor with blades, and shaving cream optional for women.

Required Documents Bring with you your: Social Security card. A direct deposit form for your checking account. Immunization records. High school diploma or GED and original college transcripts.

Original or certified copies of your marriage certificate, divorce decree or separation order. Copies of prescriptions for any medications. Original or certified ROTC documentation if applicable. Prohibited Items During Basic Training 1. Weapons of Any Type This includes pocket knives, firearms, fireworks, clubs, batons, brass knuckles, etc.

Tobacco products and lighters I f you bring cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, etc. Alcohol-based Products This includes beverages or health products. Food items This includes gum, candy and chips.

Obscene or Pornographic Materials. Nonprescription Drugs Medications not prescribed to you by the military, including items such as foot powders, antihistamines, sleep aides, acne medication, etc. Narcotics, Illegal Drugs or Any Paraphernalia All of these are prohibited from basic training — and military service in general. Expensive Personal Items Such as cameras, tablets, fancy jewelry, etc.

During these weeks, you will focus on: Self-discipline. Combat skills. Night training. Hand-to-hand combat and weapons training. Basic rifle marksmanship. Physical fitness. Expect to develop these skills: Building advanced marksmanship and maneuvering techniques.

Engaging targets as part of a team. Completing convoy operations. Identifying and disabling improvised explosive devices. Training on advanced weapons, such as machine guns. Learning how to throw live grenades. Army Basic Training Graduation Most of this week will include inspections, out-processing, personal time, haircuts, family day and the graduation ceremony itself.

Family Resources Family members are often concerned about the health and safety of their loved one in basic training.