Commentary: An overview of Army basic training
Army boot camp can be a challenging experience for the average volunteer. Army basic training is more difficult for those who are out of shape and undisciplined. Basic training is centered on physical conditioning and muscular drill sergeants yelling at you from dusk until dawn. You may be fortunate enough to have long nights when drill sergeants feel like making an example of someone at 3 a.m.
You have already sworn your allegiance to your country and now it's time to jump on a Bluebird bus headed for a shark attack. Shark attacks occur when you arrive on site for basic training. One drill sergeant enters your bus and begins to yell and scream until everyone departs the Bluebird bus. As you leave the bus, drill sergeants are everywhere yelling at everyone. This is the beginning of a painful journey.
You are instructed that you have to hold your civilian luggage in front of you so that it doesn't touch the ground. If your bag hits the ground, you are forced to do strenuous exercise until the drill sergeant feels tired. This type of activity goes on for a few weeks until the sergeants believe that you are being molded into their hands. But you are not out of the woods by any stretch of the imagination. Boot camp is full of road marches, running, and obstacle courses. These activities are always surrounded by drill sergeants making you do push-ups for nominal infractions. Breaking your body and mind is accomplished by punishing you for things that other soldiers do. When someone else screws up, you pay the price for his or her mistakes. This approach makes soldiers feel a responsibility for each other and is a great tool for team building.
Boot camp is divided into several phases of training. Each phase ends with a physical fitness test to judge your ability to meet Army standards. According to your age, you must complete as many push-ups and sit-ups as you can and finish a 2-mile run in a predetermined time. Soldiers must also pass weapons qualifications and perform common soldier tasks. These tasks range from land navigation to setting up a Claymore Mine. All of these tasks are drilled into your skull during the duration of boot camp and can be completed if you pay attention.
You can expect to grow up during basic training. This time in your life is like a rocket ride into adulthood. Boot camp will make you a respectful and responsible defender of America. Our country would be a better place if every American were made to serve their country. Your time in the military is a small price to pay for the freedoms you enjoy.
I gave my country five years of my young life and I am proud that I answered the call. Our country exists due to the sacrifice of young men and women all over the United States. Join the ranks of those of us who are proud to be called "Soldiers" and remember the chill that runs down your spine the first time you salute the American Flag in uniform. Hooah!
