Becoming a Soldier can be challenging, but it’s also a rewarding life. The process can be summed up in three steps. The first is to work with a Recruiter. Once you sign up and are sworn in, you attend Basic Combat Training (BCT). Then you learn valuable j by bluepastry Blog entry

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Becoming a Soldier can be challenging, but it’s also a rewarding life. The process can be summed up in three steps. The first is to work with a Recruiter. Once you sign up and are sworn in, you attend Basic Combat Training (BCT). Then you learn valuable j

They are all they can be and more-we salute the US Army

Date: 8/28/2006 6:12:06 PM ( 18 y ) ... viewed 1645 times

Basic Combat Training (BCT) is a nine-week training course (not including the "Reception" week) where recruits go through the process of becoming full-fledged Soldiers. Throughout the process, you will learn new rules, learn to trust yourself and understand what it means to be a Soldier in the U.S. Army.

Leaving behind hometowns and families, the recruits begin their journey. Haircuts are given and Army gear is issued in preparation for the start of Basic Training.

Recruits arrive at Fort Jackson for general orientation.
Uniforms and ID cards issued in addition to the required haircut.
The recruits brave the inoculations and undergo dental and eye exams.
Recruits take first Physical Assessment Test. Men’s mile: 8 and 1/2 minutes. Women’s mile: 10 and 1/2 minutes.
Classes in barracks upkeep and Drill (marching) are given to recruits.
Preparation for arrival of Drill Sergeant and start of Basic Training.
Personal time and chapel service.

The following information will make your transition from civilian to military life easier. Listed below are required items along with items that will not be permitted. Ask your Recruiter for a more detailed list.
What to Bring What not to Bring For Women Only

One-day supply of casual, comfortable clothing (no halter-tops or ragged shorts)
Three sets of underwear (white)
One pair of white, calf-length athletic socks (no color bands, designs or logos) Additional socks will be purchased at the post exchange (PX)
A pair of comfortable shoes
Eyeglasses (no faddish/stylish eyewear)
Luggage should be limited to one small suitcase or gym bag

One lock (combination or padlock with two keys) Additional lock will be purchased at PX

Disposable/safety razor with blades
Shaving cream (optional for women)
Toothbrush with case
Hairbrush or 6" black comb
One washcloth and towel (Additional items will be purchased at the PX)
Anti-perspirant
Shower shoes
Toothpaste
Dental floss
Shampoo
Soap and soap case

$10.00, but no more than $50.00 in cash
Traveler's Checks or Money Orders (Personal checks are not recommended because of limited check-cashing facilities.)

Social Security card
Valid driver's license or current state identification card
A direct deposit form from your checking account signed by a bank official, or the name, address, account number and routing number of your financial institution (if applicable)
Original or certified copies of your marriage certificate, divorce decree or separation order (if applicable)
Original or certified copies of birth certificates of children under 18; affidavit of support for parents; court documents and direct deposit forms if ordered to pay spousal and/or child support (if applicable)
Proof of citizenship (if you were not born in the United States)
If you are married to a service member in the military, have the name, Social Security number and military address of your spouse
Copies of your lease agreement or rental contract for any dependents residing outside of government quarters (if applicable)
Original or certified ROTC documentation (if applicable)
Original college transcripts; GED or high school diploma

WEEK 02: DIRECTION
Leaving the classroom for the field, it's time to test your physical and mental endurance, and also get trained in First Aid and map reading.

WEEK 03: ENDURANCE
One thing you'll realize in Week 03 is to believe in the mantra: mind over matter. Physical and mental challenges build as you start simulated combat drills.

WEEK 04: MARKSMANSHIP
Learning to shoot a rifle is more than pulling the trigger. Marksmanship courses teach new recruits not only the proper way to hold a weapon, but also how to breathe and stand while firing are equally important.

WEEK 05: TRIALS
This is where the previous weeks' work pays off: tests in endurance and marksmanship await all recruits.

WEEK 06: CAMARADERIE
Each recruit is only as strong as his platoon. During Week 06, bonds are tested and trust exercises implemented.

WEEK 07: CONFIDENCE
Hand grenade training; live fire exercises; foot marching; and overall physical fitness are tested in the Confidence Course.

WEEK 08: VICTORY FORGE
It's time to put everything you've learned up to this point to the real test: a three-day field retreat to Victory Forge.

WEEK 09: GRADUATION
All your hard work has led you to this day. Family and friends eagerly await to see you complete your Basic Training course.