Best advice for basic training?

2013-11-22T16:14:28-05:00

Anything I could use to be able to go above and beyond?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2013 4:26 PM

2013-11-22T16:26:17-05:00

Do what you're told, when you're told, and how you're told to do it.  Don't make an effort to stand out, it will only draw negative attention to you.  Help your battle buddies, keep and eye on them, and don't be afraid to ask for help from your peers if they are better at a particular skill than you are.  The only attention you should want is from doing well at the things you're there to learn, like PT, weapons qualification.  Doing well at those tasks are what constitutes 'above and beyond'.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 22 at 2013 7:44 PM

2013-11-22T19:44:50-05:00

Understand that you will be entering a new environment with people that were raised different ways and lived different lifestyles. It will be a struggle trying to get everyone on the same page, even though the Drill Sergeants tell you exactly what to do. You all have to work as a team and help each other out to achieve the common goal of graduating basic training. I promise you that the moment everyone learns to come together and help each other out when some may be unsure, things will still be tough but smoother from that point all the way until graduation day.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2013 1:02 PM

2013-11-23T13:02:53-05:00

cool ty for the info. and yea i'v got the common sense thing down lol. my first drill i got to meet a few guys that are going to Fort Jackson with me i ended up jumping there ass because they couldnt make a straight line and i was getting tired of random pt because they couldnt look left or right and line them selves up.

fort jackson then im off to fort lee.

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made Nov 23 at 2013 1:06 PM

2013-11-23T13:06:56-05:00

Be where you are supposed to be, when you are supposed to be there (actually about 15 minutes early), in the right uniform and motivated to execute the task at hand.  Good luck!!!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 23 at 2013 1:10 PM

2013-11-23T13:10:45-05:00

Do you feels right for you,  if you more subdued,  just be yourself.  Otherwise you might appear to be trying too hard.

Response by CSM Mike Maynard made Nov 23 at 2013 6:46 PM

2013-11-23T18:46:05-05:00

Focus on being a great follower. Be at the right place at the right time in the right uniform with the right attitude.<div><br></div><div>Help your battle buddies. They are the ones that you will lay your life on the line for. Help them be successful and do what they are supposed to do.</div><div><br></div><div>Most of the time we focus so much on leadership that we forget it's harder and more beneficial to learn to be a good follower first.</div>

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 24 at 2013 1:26 AM

2013-11-24T01:26:44-05:00

BCT is stressful to push you not only as an individual, but as a group. If your platoon/company is united then basic training will be a much more pleasurable experience. Best advice I can give is to grow a thick skin and lose any sense of entitlement you may have.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 3 at 2014 9:16 PM

2014-04-03T21:16:38-04:00

As a Drill Sgt all I can say is everyone else has given you sound advice. Don't be astand out for something negative.

If your Drill Sergeant knows your name within the first few days its one of two things, your not screwing up or you have screwed up. be the former not the latter. I introduced to a Privates family on graduation day and I didn't know his name. He must have did what he was supposed to and not that he didn't go unnoticed he just never screwed up.

Response by SGT(P) Angela G. made Apr 6 at 2014 9:16 PM

2014-04-06T21:16:00-04:00

Keep your head on a swivel…and think sponge. Remember, that you are in a training environment. They have to let you eat, and they have to let you sleep. It may not taste as good as home cooking (if you taste it at all) and your bed won't even be as comfy as your couch. It will end….and remember that when you are done, there are hundreds of NCOs that are ready to help you become all you can be.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 15 at 2014 11:17 PM

2014-04-15T23:17:52-04:00

Don't be afraid to be the only one that takes a stand on something.

Also, don't be afraid to admit your wrong.

Response by SGT Donald Croswhite made May 5 at 2014 4:25 AM

2014-05-05T04:25:28-04:00

One thing people always kept doing is opening their mouths. Go there with your mouth closed and ears open. Don't assume you know anything. Be there to learn and execute.

Response by Sgt Randy Hill made May 21 at 2014 1:09 PM

2014-05-21T13:09:15-04:00

Remember 60,000,000,000,000 people before graduated so it is a challenge but far from impossible.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 23 at 2014 3:10 PM

2014-05-23T15:10:19-04:00

Private,

Best advice to BCT. Do not quit. If you don't quit, you'll be fine. If it sucks, it is probably a day the ends in 'Y'. It will get better...if it doesn't, well it will get better tomorrow...keep repeating until it gets better.

Response by CPT Jacob Swartout made May 23 at 2014 7:07 PM

2014-05-23T19:07:41-04:00

PVT Abbit, Congratulations on the choice to serve your country. It takes a lot of self-pride and commitment to do this. I'm a commander for a basic training unit and my advice to you is to keep positive at all times. It will be challenging for you at times because BT is designed that way. Remember you are not the only one going through BT. Your entire company will be doing the same training required to be a mechanic. You will do the same tests just as your battle buddy to your left and right. Be motivated and eager to learn from the cadre instructors and the drill sergeants. They are there for your benefit. Like I mentioned, BT will be challenging and you can complete your initial entry training. There is nothing that will stop your training except you. While others give up, you keep your head in the game and do what your told. You will be fine. Message me anytime if you have any specific questions. If I can't get them on the spot, my unit will for sure know the answer. Good luck and do great out there in your career.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2014 8:41 PM

2014-05-23T20:41:00-04:00

Do what you are told to do, and do it quickly.
I lost the Battalion Leader of The Cycle Board by one point. Didn't have very much material to study with.
Go to ArmyStudyGuide.com
Memorize information from each section and you will be squared away.
Also practice your marksmanship. I shot expert and was given the opportunity to shoot an AT4 because of my success. Depending on your MOS you may never have that opportunity later on. Good luck!

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2014 9:50 AM

2014-05-25T09:50:57-04:00

Never volunteer for anything, do as you're told, stand still in formation, fly below the radar, and exceed the DI's expectations.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2014 3:50 AM

2014-06-13T03:50:57-04:00

Keep your mouth shut and do what you are told. There is going to be a lot of things that don't make sense to you in basic, but that is how it is supposed to be. You don't exactly get bonus points for going "above and beyond" at basic either. The process is designed to transition you from the civilian world into the military world. You will learn military tasks along the way, but they won't be the most important things you learn in basic training. You'll learn a lot about yourself; some good and some bad. You'll learn that there are no individuals in the Army. The smallest element is a team. This means that you will never be alone in the military. The only individual tasks you will complete will be weapons qualification and PT tests.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2014 3:52 AM

2014-06-13T03:52:41-04:00

Don't forget to stay out of the "kill zone." You'll figure this out once you get there.

Response by SFC Gary (Bigsarge) Portier USARMY RET. made Jul 1 at 2014 10:40 AM

2014-07-01T10:40:55-04:00

Keep your mouth shut and do as you are told.

Response by SFC(P) Tobias M. made Sep 2 at 2014 12:18 PM

2014-09-02T12:18:52-04:00

DISCIPLINED Service Members are needed. This is going down hill fast.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2014 3:47 PM

2014-09-03T15:47:42-04:00

If you have to talk to the drill sergeant respond in one of two ways: yes drill sergeant or no drill sergeant

Response by SPC David S. made Nov 3 at 2014 8:46 PM

2014-11-03T20:46:00-05:00

Just remember to not dishonor your name, the military, or your country. The rest will take care of itself. Thank you for answering the call.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2014 4:27 PM

2014-12-03T16:27:34-05:00

Try to focus on the 'team'. Being successful in the military takes a team mentality. So HELP your battle buddies.

Be at the right place at the right time in the right uniform with the right gear/equipment ready to train with open ears and eyes and a shut mouth.

If you do those two things, you will do great! Good luck.

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2014 12:38 PM

2014-12-04T12:38:14-05:00

Don't be a kiss ass and don't be a smart ass.
Be the first finished and help the slowest.
Make friends and have fun.
Never lie.
Learn and live the Army values.

Helped me start my near 36 year military career with being awarded Distinguished Honor Graduate and Trainee of the Cycle.

Response by PVT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 10 at 2014 11:10 PM

2014-12-10T23:10:38-05:00

Buy wverything on the to biy list no matter how dumb it might sound. Mark your bags with your nametapes. And learn how to do a 90degree bed corner. As far from that just get in good shape and you should be fine

Response by TSgt David Holman made Feb 27 at 2015 7:55 PM

2015-02-27T19:55:22-05:00

Don't try to go above and beyond... that is the first advice (no sucking up, don't volunteer for everything...). Keep your head low, and keep pushing forward. Give your all, don't complain, and remember that the entire point of the training is to break you down in order to build you back up. As others have said, focus on following... the best leaders are followers first.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 22 at 2015 5:53 PM

2015-04-22T17:53:49-04:00

Get in great shape, and don't let the DS get the best of you.

Response by SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S. made May 3 at 2015 1:38 PM

2015-05-03T13:38:13-04:00

I hope the SF still runs recruiters out to AIT classes. If you see one, grab a package and put-in. Get a Jump School slot if you can. Wear that blue cord with pride!

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 3 at 2015 2:03 PM

2015-05-03T14:03:33-04:00

Do Your Job, Have Fun and Enjoy. I'm jealous they won't let me Play anymore. That Crap about Never Again Volunteer Yourself (Navy) Pfffttt. Do Anything and Everything, Volunteer, Volunteer, Volunteer. If you don't they will probably volunteer you anyway. I wouldn't have gone to Desert Storm or Fiery Vigil if I hadn't volunteered (Also was a Great Way to get Away from a Crappy Chief). I would have never fought a Forest Fire if I had not Volunteered. Did I say I'm Jealous of you!

Response by PV2 Sean Chadwick made May 3 at 2015 2:22 PM

2015-05-03T14:22:30-04:00

I was on sandhill in 2008. Id say dont play f*ck f*ck games. Do what your told. Dont put baby powder infront of the fan to combat another platoon charging at you in the buff. Because it sets off the fire alarm of the whole battalion... And then your doing a good ole smoke session out in the rain in nothing but your towel. Also dont listen to that tradition in bravo company 1-50 about shaving your whole body from top to bottom in honor of graduation. Your drill knows and will make you run after words the bext morning of graduation and boy do you feel it. Just have fun do what your told and remember 90% of it is mental and only 20% is physical. Play the game

Response by SGT Michael Touchet made May 3 at 2015 2:55 PM

2015-05-03T14:55:47-04:00

First of all, thank you for your choice to serve your country in one of the most noblest professions, you have chosen to join a brotherhood that many will never know. Remember to always be humble but confident, prideful without being boastful, be the best without saying look at me, let your actions speak louder than your words. Be a silent professional, be a Team player, be a good follower; but learn to lead the Team. Don't worry so much about what is to come, just soak up what you are about to be taught, because the Army has some outstanding leaders who will guide you to be all that you can be and make you Army strong!

P.S. Do go to Airborne school and Ranger school if you have the opportunity, but remember don't be a badge wearer, rather be a badge bearer, you will come to see the difference. Good luck to you Brother and once again thank you for answering the call for freedom.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made May 3 at 2015 2:57 PM

2015-05-03T14:57:43-04:00

You are going to experience something completely new. It is purposely meant to put you into physical and mental overload. Focus on doing it a day at a time and soon enough you will be something different. Stronger, more capable, and part of a team. When you finally do go home, your family and friends will see a lot of changes in you.

There will be many things you might think are unfair. You're headed to the major league where purposely injuring you is unfair but messing with your wheelhouse is part of the process. Pay particular attention to what the instructors are telling you on how, what, when, and where. Don't ask the "why". You're not a reporter, you're a recruit in training. Many things will reveal themselves in due course. Be patient.

Response by SSG Kenneth Lanning made May 3 at 2015 3:27 PM

2015-05-03T15:27:24-04:00

No such thing as a "lowly" future Soldier-welcome to the Profession of Arms, brother.

DON'T keep your head down, DON'T second guess your decision to join, and DON'T just be part of the crowd. Keep your wits about you, follow orders as they're given, and trust in your fellow Soldiers and your leadership.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 3:44 PM

2015-05-03T15:44:49-04:00

I hope you enjoy your stay at the Fort Benning School for Wayward Boys, as it is lovingly referred to. I went to basic back in 2000 there. I have been there more than I can recall. As times goes on being Infantry stays the same.

1. Avoid the wanna-bes. If you see some kid that thinks he knows how the Army works you best be going the other way. You will see some that were some badass in JROTC or something to that effect. Or the guy that think he is going to be Delta Force. Avoid those guys. If you want to do anything great you got to put your time in. The infantry isn't a stepping stone for SF. Those that view it as such will never make it.

2. Do some reading. The Ranger handbook is great but that is not the only thing you should be reading. A lot of the basic FMs that touch on Drill and Ceremony, History, and other basics of the military will build you a good base. RallyPoint is also a good place.

3. Stay Hungry. The moment you think you know enough is the moment you are failing yourself. You should always strive to be your best as all you do. If it is cleaning your M4 or mopping the floor, don't half ass it.

4. DON'T CHASE SCHOOLS OR BADGES! Those are among the most worthless soldiers in the military. You should want to be a paratrooper instead just wanting wings. You should want to be a Ranger instead of being getting the Tab. I think you get the point. You will see some that want all the badges and shinny things that have no ambition of actually doing that.

My first duty station was Fort Bragg. I really enjoyed it. I was a scout there as an Airborne Infantryman. I learned a lot. I went on to do a lot more and then commission. If you don't end up in the unit you want off the bat you may get it next time. Everyone wants 82nd or 101st. There is nothing wrong with the 3rd ID or 1st ID. It is all what you make of it. I hope this helps you some. I have been 14 years now. Both in the Regular Army and National Guard. I greatly enjoy the infantry and find it very rewarding.

Response by CW5 Jim Steddum made May 3 at 2015 3:45 PM

2015-05-03T15:45:40-04:00

You are already doing it... asking for advice is far more than most. That is good evidence that you are open-minded and determined to go beyond success.

Keep your chin up, listen, learn, and lead.

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 4:00 PM

2015-05-03T16:00:50-04:00

PVT Private RallyPoint Member. There is no such thing as a lowly soldier . . . anyone who signs up to make a real difference in the world . . . all too often at risk of their own lives . . . most particularly in today's world . . . is a true hero in my book. My advice? Savor the moment . . . working as a part of the team . . . whether it is the suck of the infantry . . . pulling patients out of the line of fire . . . or saving lives blown apart by the hard instruments of war . . . these may be some of the richest and most important lifelong memories. Stay in touch with me, let me know how it is going, and what I may be able to do to help.

Warmest Regards, Sandy ( [login to see] ; https://www.linkedin.com/in/armynurse )

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 4:01 PM

2015-05-03T16:01:39-04:00

A couple things my Dad told me when I was going to basic.

1. When you are rucking, running or pushing, pick the strongest guy and convince yourself you will go one further than him... If he drops pick the next.

2. There are two schools of thought, always volunteer or never volunteer, be the volunteer, you will learn more and earn more.

Response by SrA Jonathan Carbonaro made May 3 at 2015 4:03 PM

2015-05-03T16:03:55-04:00

Read two Books.
1) On Combat
2) On Killing
Both by LT. COL Grossman

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 4:06 PM

2015-05-03T16:06:57-04:00

Be yourself, be proud, confident and show your a team player. Support and help your buddies. Be firm but friendly and personable. I actually learned a lot of that the hard way when I went through ROTC and in my early years as a jr officer. There is the saying, "don't volunteer" I don't always agree with that. You want to show that you are a take charge person but don't overdo it either to the point where people might perceive that you are trying to win all the points yourself. Take advantage of all your education opportunities for civilian degrees and well as military schools. These attributes will help you in basic training and beyond. As SSG Lanning has said. A private/recruit is not lowly! A soldier is the highest calling regardless of rank. Once again welcome to the United States Army, brother!

Response by CW3 Brian Bartee made May 3 at 2015 4:51 PM

2015-05-03T16:51:47-04:00

First off, congrats on your CHOICE to serve and I wish you well in your future. With great advice already given in the previous post, I would like to add a pitch for the Thrift Savings plan (TSP). I wish as a young soldier the TSP program was around when I joined. Google it and see what you think. If you decide to make this a career and contribute to TSP from the beginning, you will really set yourself up for financial success after retirement.

Additionally, once you get through basic and AIT, you might want to look into the Warrant Officer Flight Training program. It is very rewarding and I just wish I would have done it earlier in my career.

Just my two cents..

Response by SGT Richard H. made May 3 at 2015 5:02 PM

2015-05-03T17:02:24-04:00

If it doesn't get hard in basic, you are probably going to be a superstar. If it does, that's because it was designed that way.
My wife (a lifelong civilian) asked me once while watching something about Basic "Why do they yell at them like that? Why can't they just reason with them?" My answer was "because they aren't trying to win friends and influence people, they are training Soldiers to function under stressful conditions".

Remember that, and rise above, and you will go far. Anyone can make it through basic, and so will you. if you decide to go to the next level and be a Ranger or SF, it will be much harder...but you will have laid the foundations.

If you remember nothing else, remember that if (when) things get hard, just make it to the next meal. If you keep making it to the next meal, you will have eventually made it through all of them and succeeded.

Oh, and Welcome!

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 5:04 PM

2015-05-03T17:04:11-04:00

Never turn around when the Drill Sgts say "come here you". Never volunteer for anything. Understand that your time there consists of one long mind game without sleep and a whole lot of physical exertion. Always keep a good attitude, and ALWAYS look to mentor those who struggle in your platoon. Drill Sgts love it when you look out for each other, even when they tell you not to do it. Did I mention it will be a long long mind game?

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made May 3 at 2015 5:10 PM

2015-05-03T17:10:14-04:00

PVT Private RallyPoint Member since you have already picked the army and signed up,I can not advise you to go see a Navy Recruiter as you should have done. However, congratulations on your decision to join the Armed Forces and Defend your Country. Although you are a volunteer, once you take your Oath of Enlistment, that obligation is not going to stop - EVER.

On arrival in BOOT CAMP you need to engage your mind. This is the beginning of learning from day one second one. You will encounter all types of individuals set out to make your life miserable, many of them will be fellow recruits and some your instructors. Listen carefully to what your instructors want and expect, they will then become your teachers and friends; helping you through recruit training and ensuring your success in the Army. Ultimately your success or failure in the weeks of recruit training are up to you. Keep your eye on the goal of perfection and making it out as the best you can be. Once you graduate then and only then can you go on and get training in Ranger School, or whatever else you want! BUT, your performance in boot camp can help you get there.

Response by LCpl Mark Lefler made May 3 at 2015 5:21 PM

2015-05-03T17:21:51-04:00

I'll give you a practical tip for basic training, though I'm sure Marine and Army have differences. 1.Don't be an overachiever or an underachiever, being middle of the pack keeps you from being noticed, being noticed can mean more reindeer games for you.

2.Also eat as fast as you can when you go to the chow hall and remember never look around, eyes forward.

3.Talk as little as you have to when talking to your DI's, the more you say the more ammunition you give them to use against you.

4.I don't know if the Army teaches Army history, i'm sure they might, but knowing some history is good, just don't brag about it.

5. I'm sure the Army teaches drill, learn some of the drill ahead of time, being the guy who can't do the steps right when everyone else is gets you really noticed.

6. This might be the most important thing, do not take anything that is said to you personally, its all business, its all part of the process. The DI's probably don't really care if your mother liked you or not.

Response by SPC David S. made May 3 at 2015 5:28 PM

2015-05-03T17:28:58-04:00

You are far from lowly as you are soon to be a part of a very select group of individuals that have answered the call to serve our country. Ft. Benning is a big post with a number of schools. I did Air Assault and Path Finder there back in the 80's. As far as basic you will be busy and you won't have any free time to check it out. However do what you're told and do it with energy and you'll be fine in basic. Also start doing push-ups and running 2 miles. Good luck! If you come into basic a PT stud DI may cut you some slack, but don't count on it.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 5:33 PM

2015-05-03T17:33:59-04:00

Be prepared to be challenged. Times will not always be easy. You'll meet bad people in, but you'll meet great people in. Have heart. We can teach you everything else. But you have to make sure your heart is in it. There will be times that you will want to quit or go down a different path. Fight the urges. Good luck. Lastly. The harder the road, the tighter the comraderie. Ranger, SF, etc. Volunteer early.

Response by SPC Angel Guma made May 3 at 2015 5:37 PM

2015-05-03T17:37:56-04:00

Get a rucksack, a used one is good enough, stash some weights in it, start light at first, and work your way up in distance and speed. You want to be king of rucking. I went to basic at fort benning to, and Benning is no joke when it comes to the ruck. Get used to it now, build up some endurance and stamina.

Don't worry about long distance running, if you really want to be feeling 'prepared', try working up to running 4 miles, 5 days a week. If you feel inclined to work on your running, include hills and inclines now, because you'll be running on inclines.

Also, if you aren't strong on your pull-ups, work at it now. Having good upper body strength never hurts. Really work on pull-up style upper body strength while you can, because it'll help tide you over.

Rifle marksmanship will be taught to you while you are there, so don't consider it something you need to worry over now. But if you really want to work on it, just stick to iron-sights and abstain from practice shoots with any sort of optics.

And as 1lt Eric Rosa said, watch out for some of the 'types' you will meet there. You'll definitely have a core clique of people who seem to think they are cut-out for Delta Force, but they can't pass runs and are laughably bad at basic knowledge issues. Anyone that strikes you as a wanna-be is bad news, so watch out. Its better to excel at some of the basic tasks you are given than to grand stand. Also, get used to being 'voluntold' often. Your drill sgts will have equal destain for you and many other guys there but they may warm up over time if they see you aren't the typical idiot they've seen over the years. With that being said, watch out if a drill sgt, officer, or any one other than those in your platoon seem to be getting too friendly. Half the time its a game and you will be tricked. Keep it locked up and keep an eye out for people who are too friendly. Don't lend people your gear, and try to keep arms length from people that talk too much in formation. Formation time is not about looking around and chit chatting, don't do it.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 3 at 2015 5:39 PM

2015-05-03T17:39:59-04:00

PVT Private RallyPoint Member first of all let me welcome you to the military family. The best piece of advice I can give you is to listen to what is being said and not how it is being said, hear the words behind the yelling. It is usually something you should be focused on.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 5:55 PM

2015-05-03T17:55:30-04:00

Just came from BCT in AIT a few months ago
Advice
1.stay away from the trouble makers ,don't fall into the so called "clique".
2.Take a leadership position you will learn a lot ,treat everyone beside you equally and respect everyone
3.Drink water...

It's a lot more but honestly you really can't prepare for something's you just have to take it how it comes and make the best out of it.

Response by MSgt Jamie Lyons made May 3 at 2015 6:31 PM

2015-05-03T18:31:17-04:00

Welcome aboard PVT. Though I cannot specifically speak on behalf of the Army I can speak about the profession you are about to join. We, whether Army, Navy, Marine or Air Force, are a fraternity like no other. A life long faternity that only those who choose to serve will ever understand. You are joining a brotherhood and sisterhood larger and more sophisticated than any high school or college can understand. Being a soldier for 4 years or 40 doesn't matter. No mattet what service you go into we have each others back. Embrace it. All of it. The good, the bad all of it. Be humbled, be proud. After all only 1 % of the US population serve. Understand though, every service is unique and take stabs at each other, but when the chips fall, we support each other like no other. God speed on your journey. Thank you for writing a check with your life in defense of our crazy way of life, but enenjoy. Welcome to the newest, greenist, know nothing soldier! Now get your lazy a$$ moving PVT!

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made May 3 at 2015 7:35 PM

2015-05-03T19:35:46-04:00

Welcome to the Armed Forces. Just stop, look and listen and you can pick up a lot around your surroundings. "Never make a mistake twice" It becomes a trend.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made May 3 at 2015 8:01 PM

2015-05-03T20:01:56-04:00

When I saw the word "lowly" I about passed out and then read each person's response as we all know there is no such thing when you talk "FUTURE". There may be one or two out there serving who feel and act that way, but for a future Soldier to say that, think not. I can tell you from my foxhole/cockpit, that I sought out every opportunity to get in shape before basic training so that the physical pain of getting into shape would not hurt so bad and that I could concentrate on the thing the Army was going to teach me. Education is key, start taking any online or public community college out there. It goes a long way whether you are a Soldier or not. Take every opportunity to do things you suspect need to be done and always be looking for ways to help the command achieve its mission goal. With the "mission command" scenario, even the "lowly private" has a solution that could very well be "THE ANSWER" to the problem or question. Be respectful and use candor to forward you ideas or comments. I could go on about a lot of things, but this is a decent start and you have a ton of reading already ahead of you from everyone.

Enjoy your service, I signed up for ONLY three years of service and 28 years later I am still doing it, catch the fever and enjoy the ride.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made May 3 at 2015 8:08 PM

2015-05-03T20:08:04-04:00

I have a free memoir about my year at Infantry School (Basic, Advanced Infantry, and Infantry OCS) available on Smashwords at https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/169084

Granted, much has changed in the decades since but I bet there's still a lot of good knowledge in it that will be valuable. information that I wish I had known before hand. Sadly, the only thing I knew came from Beetle Bailey comics and none of it was true.

Good luck

Smashwords – Infantry School: A Soldier's Journal – a book by Jack Durish

A personal memoir of training to become an infantryman and an officer during the Vietnam War era. Full of humor, pathos, and the author's personal reflections on the men he trained with and their experiences.

Response by PVT Angelo Velez made May 3 at 2015 8:31 PM

2015-05-03T20:31:40-04:00

I'll see you there PVT Hunter Hofmann Hitt! I also leave in August for infantry OSUT.

Response by 1SG David Lopez made May 3 at 2015 9:00 PM

2015-05-03T21:00:17-04:00

Get ready to be smoked by your Drill Sergeant. That means he will PT (exercise) you until you are steaming and sweating sooo bad you will be smoked. It is a proud tradition in Basic Training. You will make it. Think positive. Many of men and women have gone through this and have stayed the course to be successful and graduate and become one of the greatest professions in the world, A Soldier! You will be removed from society as you know it, you will be indoctrinated and immerssed into the Army Life. Learning Army terms, general orders, how to PT, march, shoot, move, communicate, and most important as a young Private in Basic Training "Quick and immediate response to orders". Basic training will be easy, you do what you are told when they tell you to do it. You will accomplish more than you can imagine, and you will be proud of what you earn as an Infantryman, the Infantry Blue Cord. The very baddest toughest roughest Soldier our Army has trained to confront our enemies. The entire Army is built around you in order to support the Infantryman in his mission. There are plenty of great advice offered by Rally Point members, be smart young man, and know that your entire three or four years in the Army will not be like Basic Training. You will go to a regular unit, nothing like basic training, more like a regular job with field time and deployments. Do not sell your car and your belongings, entering the military is not the end of the world. You will need your car, your TV, cell phone, etc. You'll have plenty of time to enjoy your interests while you are in the Army such as cycling, motorcycling, climbing, sports, or whatever. While you are in the military, try to take college classes. That is so important, there is a life after the Army and college will help you land a good job. Good Luck and enjoy your time in the Army, I hope it will be as good to you as it was for me. I'm going to be Old School and say it "Hoo-Ah!"

Response by MSgt Keith Hebert made May 3 at 2015 9:07 PM

2015-05-03T21:07:14-04:00

welcome to the family, Pvt Hitt
a lot of great advice and i will probably repeat some if not all of it.
1. Keep a positive attitude that will go farther than anything.
2. give a 110% percent in everything
3. show up in the best physical shape as possible this makes things easier on you and one less stress point that you have to worry about
4. don't listen to the PVN( the private news network aka gossip) this will get you in trouble and give you tons of false info The DI's will give you all the info you need
5. Boot camp is only 8 weeks
Good luck

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2015 10:31 PM

2015-05-03T22:31:17-04:00

Do what you're told, when you're told to do it! Stay motivated and work as a team with the other Soldiers in your Platoon. It really is that simple, most just don't listen.

Response by SSG Arnie Jones made May 4 at 2015 12:23 AM

2015-05-04T00:23:21-04:00

My 19 year old just graduated 11B last week. Stand tall and be proud. I am the Infantry. Follow Me.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made May 4 at 2015 12:25 AM

2015-05-04T00:25:09-04:00

Before I went to BCT many moons ago, I made sure I could do push-ups, sit-ups, and run two miles. Don't go into the Army out of shape. This will make life easier.

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made May 4 at 2015 11:11 AM

2015-05-04T11:11:45-04:00

Unfortunately, I don't have any guidance about Basic Training, except to always strive to do your best in everything you do. Listen, pay attention and be a member of the team.

What I did want to say, however, is that you should never refer to yourself as a "lowly soldier". Be proud of your decision to serve your country. There is nothing more honorable and there is nobody deserving of more praise than our military men and women.

Your decision to join the military puts you heads and shoulders above your peers who have not made that commitment and sacrifice. Best of luck .. You will do well.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2015 12:29 PM

2015-05-04T12:29:49-04:00

As we say in the Air Force: Stay High Speed, & Low Drag.

The service will be what you make of it. You seem highly motivated & aware of what you want & how to go about it. Take the advice of those here. We've been there. We can be a good crutch when needed if you're stuck.

I know that I was highly motivated for Security Forces (Air Force's version of military police & ground defense force all rolled into one). My motivation took a hit when I found I was assigned to Minot AFB, ND. That is, until I decided to make the most of it. There must be a reason the motto is "Only the Best Come North". No one wants that station - it does suck. However, when they see it on your file, they see dedication. Especially if you are an outstanding member while there - trust me, the temptations are numerous to get in trouble up there.

You are well on your way PVT Private RallyPoint Member. Stick to your guns & NEVER lose sight of your goals. Stay High Speed & Low Drag!

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made May 4 at 2015 3:22 PM

2015-05-04T15:22:30-04:00

First, you have joined the 1% of people willing to step forward and put their life on the line to defend out great nation. You should feel proud of that decision. Basic training will be physically, mentally, and spiritually demanding. You'll be reshaped into a Soldier, so go with the program. Strive to be "first" in every challenge thrown at you, but learn form them all.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made May 4 at 2015 4:18 PM

2015-05-04T16:18:55-04:00

Private Hitt. It is going to be rough. It is made to take you to the point that you think you are going to break. Then, they start building you back. Look ahead, think, and be out going. Don't sit and think you have the wrong answer. The only stupid question, is the one that is unasked. If you can't get something down ask for guidance. BRM breath, hold, squeeze.

This was the best advise given to me. Be where you are supposed to be, when you are supposed to be there, and in the correct uniform for the mission.

Response by MAJ Anthony DeStefano made May 4 at 2015 4:19 PM

2015-05-04T16:19:48-04:00

I would like to echo what SSG Lanning has said so eloquently and concisely already... I would simply add that there are no limits on what you can accomplish or to what rank you can aspire to...to coin the phrase of a sister service keep your AIM HIGH...if you shoot for the stars you may just reach the moon...I went to basic training in 1982 as a private and left the service in 2006 as a major... Not all soldiers are called to be officers, but it is a noble calling and one hell of a responsibility. It is also an equally great calling to be an NCO because the ARMY would be sunk without them taking charge of their soldiers and getting them ready to perform as the situation requires. We are a team and each member has a role to play. Whatever path you may take let it be YOUR Path...envision the desired end state and let no one or nothing deter you. Welcome to my ARMY son and God Bless you.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2015 5:51 PM

2015-05-04T17:51:43-04:00

Some truths/tips about basic

1. The "Oh, shit! What did I sign up for?" feeling goes away by about the 2 day

2. You will be smoked, just accept that. No matter how much you try to hit time hacks.

3. By the end of it you will find yourself being smoked and smiling at the same time.

4. Hoard TP, seriously, even hoard the MRE crap you will need it for your FTXs

5. Have a good sturdy watch, and for the love of God do not get that stupid ACU cloth band, it stinks by week 4

6. The PXs sell what looks like mini deodorants... it's anti-chafe stick, it will save your life when it comes to rucking.

7. Youtube how to ranger roll socks and t-shirts

8. Instead of making your bunk everyday, just sleep on top of your blankets with your woobie(poncho liner, looks like a nylon quilt), that way you can roll out of your bunk and just tighten your blankets.

9. Sniffing hand sanitizer and drinking water so much you have to pee and don't are great ways to wake you up.

Response by MSG Morgan Fiszel, CPCM, CFCM made May 4 at 2015 6:12 PM

2015-05-04T18:12:51-04:00

Soldier is always capitalized and it is spelled differently from what you have above. My advice: pay attention to detail, stay motivated, volunteer for everything, especially leadership positions. Lastly, never forget that we are all the same. We have more in common than not in common and we all bleed the same way.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2015 6:26 PM

2015-05-04T18:26:57-04:00

Outside of everything that everyone else has said, just have the best positive attitude you can have. Always try to see the good in the bad. Example, I was out in the field and every night the tent would build up moisture and drip on our cots. Didn't matter where we put them, we got dripped on. One of the Soldiers simply looked at me and said "Well SSG, we have indoor pools to go swimming in, now." Have that positive attitude thru BCT/AIT/Deployments. It all boils down it that it will be what you make of it.

Response by SSG John Erny made May 4 at 2015 6:54 PM

2015-05-04T18:54:24-04:00

PVT Hunter Hofmann Hitt,

Hunter, your life is going to be changed forever, it is up to you how that change is made. If you make the most of it the change will be for the best and you will be a better civilian when the time comes to leave the service.

In Basic training all of the yelling and static has a reason, can you handle stress and still do your job. Listen to what the DI is saying when he/she is yelling, it will take your far. There is nothing you can do to stay on the good side of a DI, they are not your friend they are your instructor so learn! You can get on their bad side by being a screw up.

You will meet new people both good and bad, never lend anyone money! Not saying you can't float a guy a buck or two if he is short but no large amounts. Do not hang around trouble makers, they will take you down with them. There are not a lot of them but like anything else the Army does get a few bad apples. Stay away from the bars and clubs, you will spend all of your money for nothing.

Put some money in the TSP or thrift savings plan every month, it will grow fast!

Never buy a car from one of the lemon lots that surround military bases, get it from a dealer.

There are a lot of civilian businesses that will take advantage of young soldiers with high interest rates on things you may want to buy, so don't use them.

Learn the off limits list and never ever go to any business or location that is on it, it cause you nothing but trouble. The army has eyes!

You are not lowly, you are about to take a test to see if you are worthy of the uniform. Honor the uniform at all times, it has a blood line that goes back to the revolutionary war. Welcome to the family.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 4 at 2015 7:19 PM

2015-05-04T19:19:35-04:00

PVT Private RallyPoint Member You have received a load of great answers to your question. Pay attention, always perform to your utmost ability, and enjoy the fact that you are joining the greatest Army in the world. You will do well and thanks for your future service.

Response by COL Charles Williams made May 5 at 2015 1:30 AM

2015-05-05T01:30:10-04:00

Be in the best physical shape ever: running, push-ups, sit-ups, and even pull-ups. Learn to climb a rope well. Keep you mouth shut unless asked to speak. Take one day at a time. Thanks for stepping up.

Response by PO1 Rick Serviss made May 5 at 2015 3:42 AM

2015-05-05T03:42:05-04:00

Be positive. If an order sounds stupid, don't second guess it. There is a reason behind it even if the reason at the time isn't clear. Be a team player.

Response by SFC Terry Murphy made May 5 at 2015 10:44 AM

2015-05-05T10:44:32-04:00

Great advise from everyone so far. Let me add a few.
1- The Drill Sergeants will know your name for one of 2 reasons, you are a top performer, or you are a screw-up. You are the one that gets to chose which one that will be.
2. I see a few posts here that say don't chase badges or schools. My advise would be to do just the opposite. I don't care if it is Field Hygiene School, HazMat School or Ranger School. Be the guy that tries to get any education you can. Your leaders will recognize that you take on the not so glamorous jobs around the unit, so when that Airborne, Air Assault, Ranger slot does come around, you will be at the top of the list.
3. When you get to your unit, don't hang around the soldiers that bitch and moan that the Army, their unit, the leadership, the post you go to, or whatever, are the worst thing ever. Find the group that enjoys the Army, enjoys going out on weekends to hike, fish bike, or whatever the community and the area has to offer. Don't get caught up in spending your paycheck at the local bars. Instead, get your buddies together and spend your time off taking weekend trips and seeing what your current duty assignment has to offer. Post have outdoor recreation centers. Check them out.
4th and final, keep your head up and no matter how dark it may seem during basic, have fun. If you always look at everything as an opportunity to have fun, you will.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2015 12:06 PM

2015-05-05T12:06:00-04:00

There are tons of great advice from all these SMs (service members). Look forward to learning about 5000 different acronyms for daily Army stuff. This is probably the only profession where you can have an entire conversation using only acronyms and the other person will know exactly what you're talking about.
Now on to some real advice. Failure. There are going to be times in your career where you are going to fail. It is inevitable. But don't let that discourage you. Learn from it. Failures can be and usually are our greatest teachers. Then one day, you will be able to pass that on to SMs who are asking the same question you are right now.
Have think skin, I know this has been said a few times already, but I can't reiterate it enough. If you're going to Ft. Benning to be an 11B, you're going to need it.
There are so many things I can add but this is my last one, you will learn what a good leader is and a bad leader is. You can learn just as much from a bad leader as a good leader. You will learn what not to do and how not to be when you get to that position one day.

Good luck Soldier. Hit this forum back when you have earned that Blue Cord. To this day, that is still one of the proudest moments of my career.

Response by SGT John Rauch made May 5 at 2015 12:16 PM

2015-05-05T12:16:29-04:00

one thing I learned after a while from watching others is that confidence does not equal competence dont let your head get too big.

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made May 5 at 2015 12:16 PM

2015-05-05T12:16:53-04:00

If there's any one single piece of advice I'd give you, it would be to tell your family to decorate the mail they send you as much as humanly possible. The drills on Sand Hill LOVE decorated mail.

In all seriousness though - Keep your eyes open, your attention to detail sharp. Be motivated, show initiative and let the craziness roll off your back. The drills' and the environment's job is to tear you down and reforge you into a soldier. Embrace the suck.

Stay humble, but don't play the mediocrity game the group will try to play. Get it done, get it done better than right and if the drills need volunteers, don't get voluntold.

Be teachable. If it seems stupid, do it with a positive attitude anyway and absorb the lesson. Some of it will be honestly stupid, but nearly all of it will have a purpose.

Oh yeah, and get in shape now. Life on Sand Hill is way easier if you're in shape.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2015 12:38 PM

2015-05-05T12:38:42-04:00

My top 10 Things that helped me through USAF Basic:
1. This to Shall Pass
2. Know your reporting statement 100%
3. CONFIDENCE- keep it and show it
4. If you are wrong or make a mistake OWN IT
5. Meal to meal- How I lived through BMT I believe the Good Colonel said day to day and that is all on the individual and what will work for you and my advice was meal to meal.
6. Hydrate
7. Never pass a chance to piss of STFU- advice from a friend and it has served me well beyond basic. Listen and comprehend, and when there is down time make sure you are ready to go and not have to slow things by restroom breaks
8. Work as a team, sure at first it wont work but once everyone realizes they can't do it by themselves the team will come together.
9. Be the example- be squared away and strive to achieve
10. Self awareness and be aware of your teammates

Sure there is a lot more but I hope these will help and it looks like there are tons of others in here that have experienced the ARMY Basic training and have different perspectives. Just remember they will outline what is expected of you and do your best all the time. The DS is there for you, to help you become the best soldier you can be to continue to have the best Army on the planet! Good luck!

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 5 at 2015 1:01 PM

2015-05-05T13:01:51-04:00

Hunter,

First, I congratulate you on your decision to join the US Army and enjoy Fort Benning, School for Wayward Boys, it is a great place to be introduced to the Army.

Second, I don't want to come off as a D.I.C.K. but you haven't earned the title of Soldier nor PVT and I am sure there are other titles you can place on your profile until you complete OSUT.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2015 7:38 AM

2015-05-06T07:38:42-04:00

Don't drink the water!

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2015 8:31 AM

2015-05-06T08:31:08-04:00

When in basic, a certain number will be given leadership roles, Always learn what you are to do and the person in charge of you , you never know when you'll be called into that position. Listen twice as much as you talk, you learn much more that way and remember that even the "stupid" tasks have a purpose, complete them with pride and you'll figure out why later in training.

Response by CPT Alex Lamb made May 6 at 2015 8:48 AM

2015-05-06T08:48:57-04:00

First and foremost.

Your decision to make this post sets you apart. Do you see RallyPoint riddled with thousands of requests for guidance about what to expect from Basic Training? No. Recognize that.

Confidence. There is nothing lowly about you when you choose the path of a Soldier. Congratulations, you're a 1 percenter, and your family has become 5 percenters. Your motivations for joining can be varied, but your decision to join is what is important, and you made it. If you make a decision at Basic or ANYWHERE IN YOUR CAREER. Keep to it until it succeeds or fails, ESPECIALLY in training. That is how you will learn the fastest.

Humility. Keep your mouth shut and learn. You will be entry level, my friend. Learn from your Drill Sergeants. Learn from the mistakes of your Squad and the mistakes of other Squads. You are making the first steps into a disciplined world where the advice family, friends, strangers in the military can only guide you. Guide. Not direct. Guide. You know nothing, be humble about it. With my 7 years in the military, one CONUS deployment and one OCONUS deployment later, I still know very little considering what's out there available to learn. (Not a pissing contest, just giving you a little perspective)

Attention to Detail. Attention to Detail. Attention to Detail. Overlooking small things can get you hemmed up in big way.

Keep your loyalty to your Battle Buddy. If he goes drops, drop with him. If he needs help, help him. If he makes a dumb mistake, share in his punishment. Even when you aren't instructed to. He will notice and he'll have your back forever. Work together for eachother's improvement. CAVEAT: if he breaks a laws, commits immoral acts, or other acts that will get him canned... ...make your call.

Perform. Your. Damn. Best. Don't let underperformers jade you man. If you have 100% to give. Give it and put them to shame. This is your career. Earn everything you deserve.

DO NOT QUIT.

Good luck.

Response by CSM Carlson C. made May 6 at 2015 8:52 AM

2015-05-06T08:52:19-04:00

I remember basic like it was last week. I was an E-1 when I went to basic, and those were a special time in my Army career. Sometimes I miss those days, but as with anything else you have to keep it moving. You'll remember that experience forever and there will be characters that you'll meet and Drill Sergeants that will give you stories for days. Your about to join a band of brothers and sisters that will always have your back and will welcome you with open arms.

Be smart, Be respectful, Be you, and Be awesome.... Congratulations Troop, Welcome to the United States Army!

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2015 10:19 AM

2015-05-06T10:19:44-04:00

Read up the up on the basics. Ranks, responsibilities, etc.
Work out, push ups, sit ups, running, more running, other exercises to keep you balanced, more running.
Volunteer, for leadership positions, for details, for everything. If you show you work hard and are willing to do the hard details, you will also get rewarded with the good ones, like setting up the range, or firing excess rounds.

And if you don't already have it in your contract for Air Assault, Airborne, Ranger, etc, and you want to be more Hooah, add it now! You'll be in great shape for all those schools coming right out of Basic, and if you don't have them in your initial contract, you have to rely on your unit having a spot, and you making it to the top of the Order of Merit list, plus you'll be older, and worn down by the Army.

Response by SFC Lawrence Marcus made May 6 at 2015 12:19 PM

2015-05-06T12:19:23-04:00

This is an excellent question, Private.
1. Do not ever be afraid to ask questions. That is how you learn.
2. You will always have shitbags no matter where you go. The key is to keep them at arms length, and do the right thing, ALWAYS. Learn to spot the good people and learn from them, but you can also learn from the bad people as to what NOT to do!
3. No matter how bad the job sucks, it has to be done. Do it, and move on. Everything you do in the army is an experience, good and bad.
4. Do not be afraid to stand up or what is right.
5. Bad leaders are a part of life. You will encounter them in civilian life also, not just the army. Learn to deal with the good AND the bad, and you will be successful.
6. Seek opportunities for experience and learning. Schools, assignments, everything. It all helps in the long run.
7. No matter how much things suck, believe me it can ALWAYS get worse. Embrace the suck, learn what you need to learn, and be positive. It wont suck all the time, I promise you.

Most importantly, embrace your battle buddy, and your squad/team mates. They will probably save your life, or give you a chance to save theirs. Never forget them. NEVER.

HooaH! Infantry leads the way! Queen of Battle!

Response by SPC Jeffrey Bly made May 6 at 2015 12:50 PM

2015-05-06T12:50:28-04:00

It's all designed with a very specific purpose in mind. Learn from those in your unit who are doing it right. Be the leader, not the follower. Get rest when you can, but not before you're "squared" away. Keep your ears and eyes open. Strive to be better than each day before it.

I can go on and on. Just be the best you can be and stay away from know-it-alls and trouble makers. Hooah!

Response by PO2 Vince Chmiel made May 6 at 2015 1:49 PM

2015-05-06T13:49:25-04:00

What got me through basic was this thought, "I am here to do a job and so are the RDCs (your DIs)."
Dont take everything your DIs tell you personally. Their job is to break down dozens of individuals in order to build up a team.
Do your part, complete your tasks as best you can, help others when you can, and, at the end of the day remember, this is just my job for right now. Do not carry any anger over from one day to the next. Try to have fun while you are there.
At the end, thank your DIs and the rest of your class for their support and teachings.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2015 1:52 PM

2015-05-06T13:52:56-04:00

Just understand that the first three weeks are the worst of it. Everyone is going through the same training and that most, not all are having the same thoughts that you are. Remember why you decided to enlist and keep your eye on the prize. Best of luck.

Response by CPL Dano Williams made May 6 at 2015 2:03 PM

2015-05-06T14:03:36-04:00

Prepare to get your ass kicked. The only thing that matters is do NOT give up, stay positive always and always give your all. And lastly dont be last move with a purpose.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2015 2:15 PM

2015-05-06T14:15:30-04:00

Welcome to RP and the Army family. Only a couple pieces of advise from me:
1) some people are trouble. Stay away from the obvious ones
2) you will pay for others mistakes.. Just accept that it's gonna happen
3) absorb, retain and use the knowledge both good and bad

Response by SPC Eric Francis made May 7 at 2015 12:21 PM

2015-05-07T12:21:53-04:00

well in Basic, get ready to be sick alot from all the shots that they will give you. be prepared for not getting alot of rest. Work out in the evening as well (pushups, situps, pullups, even do some weight lifting if they have that in the barracks), make friends in there as well. Be prepared to get yelled at alot, have family and friends write you alot. dont speak unless spoken to.

Good Luck and drink a ton of water as well.

Response by SPC Ken Sawyer made May 7 at 2015 1:04 PM

2015-05-07T13:04:17-04:00

First be proud that you choose to serve your country. My son is a Marine recruiter and he is having one hell of a hard time getting young men to join. So many people your age are looking to other things to do besides joining the military. So i am proud to see that there are young men out there still looking to serve something other than themselves. The time you spend in basic you will learn a lot about yourself you will be a new man. When its over a better man than before you went in. Listen to your DI it's their job to break you from the me mentality and mold you into the we mentality. You will make life long friendships that only your new brothers will understand.They will push you into things you thought you were not capable of doing. But you will be able the training you get will instill a confidence that you never knew was possible. Last but not least enjoy this time you will remember it for ever.

Response by SGT John Beardsley made May 7 at 2015 1:12 PM

2015-05-07T13:12:46-04:00

As to Basic:
It passes quickly, no matter how long it may seem at times. Afterwards, especially after you eventually return to civilian life, a lot of it you'll remember as the best time of your life.

Hang in, keep a positive attitude and remember the Drill Sergeants are there to help you.

As for the rest of military life: It is what YOU make it. I cannot offer any other advice than that.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made May 7 at 2015 1:21 PM

2015-05-07T13:21:26-04:00

Remember to drink water throughout the day. Your cadre especially drill sergeants should remind you to drink water while training. Whether they do or not, Fort Benning is very hot and humid during the summer into at least September. You probably know this already; but, by the time you are thirsty you are at least one quart low.
Listen to and watch your cadre and learn what it means to soldier and lead soldiers.
Watch out for wildlife - there are alligators in many of the lakes and the Chattahoochee river [I swam by one accidently on a Chattahoochee river raft event] and poisonous snakes.
I spent a lot of time at Benning - Jump school in 1979, Infantry Mortar Leaders training in 1980, IOBC in 1980, IOAC in 1984, commanded an Infantry OSUT company 1985 - 1986, served as chief of Test and Evaluation for all initial entry infantry training and then Scheduling Officer for the training center.

Response by 1LT Hugh Ghormley made May 7 at 2015 1:28 PM

2015-05-07T13:28:56-04:00

Don't take anything personally. The military's job is to break everyone down and rebuild the pieces into a synchronized fighting component. Follow orders. Respond rapidly. Ignore the advice and ALWAYS volunteer! High-speed, low-drag!

Response by CPT David Landrum made May 7 at 2015 1:45 PM

2015-05-07T13:45:03-04:00

Pretty simple - do what you are told, keep your mouth shut, take care of your shit, take care of your buddies shit, have a good attitude even when it sucks, give 100% at everything you do and you will do fine. Do not get dragged into nonsense by some dirtbag. I ended up doing an entire career and never expected to and one of the keys was making sure I always kept all options open - no article 15s, etc. I got selected for a green-to-gold scholarship after 7 years enlisted and after ROTC finished my career as an officer. It is a great life if you chose to make it great.

Response by CPT William Gordon made May 7 at 2015 1:45 PM

2015-05-07T13:45:58-04:00

Hunter,

Simple, physical fitness is job 1 but even more important is to go in with the right attitude. Ears and eyes open, mouth shut except when spoken too. Pay attention and do what your told.

Good luck,

Response by CPL Matthew Yates made May 7 at 2015 1:50 PM

2015-05-07T13:50:16-04:00

Get your PT score up...anytime you have down time, push, pull, run, or sit-up...in Basic, we had one tabbed Ranger DI...he gave the 5 of us with Ranger contracts a PT test every other night...you are there to become a warrior...become one.

Be invisible...if the DIs know your name, you're doing it wrong...keep your mouth shut and your ears open and remember, when you are sucking-they are watching...no one cares if you are hurting...no one is your friend...you are going into the Infantry which is just a stepping stone to greatness...become the subject matter expert in everything you touch...go Airborne, go Ranger...never quit...quitting gets easier as soon as you start doing it...Don't listen to anyone on here who isn't Infantry-they have no idea what we do and who we are...

Don't volunteer for anything. Take correspondence courses.

Response by SGT Patrick Wesley made May 7 at 2015 1:57 PM

2015-05-07T13:57:21-04:00

Although you may be intimidated by the Drill Sergeants, don't be afraid to ask questions. Just make sure you do it in a constructive manner. Also, make sure you start running before you go to basic so it's not a shock to your system. Be prepared to not get much sleep the first couple of weeks as you will have to pull guard duty some nights. And whatever you do, never even think about quitting. You will get through it, just never ever ever quit and you will be fine. If you have a moment of weakness, look at the guys to your left and right and know that if they can do it so can you. Good luck and thanks for serving!

Response by CW3 Michael M. made May 7 at 2015 2:06 PM

2015-05-07T14:06:37-04:00

I began to remember my experiences some ok many really, really tough from the past when my youngest son of 5 left for basic training last year to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, often referred to as "Fort Lost-in-the-Woods" specifically with stories of water snakes in the lakes and 'chiggers' which are little red insects which drink your blood and burrow under your skin and live there for their entire lives until i time to move on and find new hosts. Spiders, snakes, insects, more challenges to get past those from time to time. Additionally, dangerous animals, wild dogs, feral animals, occasionally had to deal with those infected, once we had a dog who was infected with rabies and bit a soldier, who had to be medically evacuated out of the field by air ambulance(helicopter with the big red cross on it)to get the shots to be protected immediately or be vulnerable to a fatal infection! Once we had a soldier who was fatally shot after shooting their rifle around the firing point and he shot at the tower and shot at the Non-Commissioned Officer with a full magazine of 30 live rounds of 5.56mm and put the weapon fire selector switch on semi and started recklessly shooting at everyone in range, kid stood up and took aim and shot the RANGE OIC in the tower behind him through the safety glass in the helmet(non-fatally) and on the firing lanes shot the firing point safety NCO with the paddles in the left shoulder and he tried to fire at the soldier in the next firing point, however the Range OIC took out his service handgun from the tower and took aim and shot the soldier in the head below the helmet before he could fire his weapon again, killing him instantly dead. Needless to say, that was over 30 years ago back in the early 80's and I have not heard of that anymore. Now they control the rounds and only give them to you one or two at a time until everyone is brought to a level of trust and familiarity unlike in those days. However, one of the reasons for doing it that way was due to time constraints and learning to figure out how to make life and death decisions and knowing you could do it...we did win WWII...pretty amazing when you think about it.

Response by SSG Michael Velez made May 7 at 2015 2:07 PM

2015-05-07T14:07:18-04:00

Here's some advice based on my mistakes:

- Save (and invest) your money.
- What money you don't save, spend wisely.
- Know the difference between love, lust and loneliness.
- Not everyone is your friend and everyone is not your enemy.
- Volunteer, but don't volunteer for everything.
- Shut your mouth and open your ears.
- Keep track of everything you sign for and don't sign for everything.
- Trust, but verify.
- Tango Romeo Double-Echos exist.
- Grid squares come in various sizes, so verify the size the Specialist wants before you go looking for them.
- 100 MPH Tape has that name for a reason.

Lastly, always remember the Soldier's Creed:

I am an American Soldier.
I am a warrior and a member of a team.
I serve the people of the United States, and live the Army Values.
I will always place the mission first.
I will never accept defeat.
I will never quit.
I will never leave a fallen comrade.
I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills.
I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.
I am an expert and I am a professional.
I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy, the enemies of the United States of America in close combat.
I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
I am an American Soldier.

Response by SGT Robert Hawks made May 7 at 2015 2:08 PM

2015-05-07T14:08:01-04:00

First follow all of your Drill Sergeant's instructions contrary to popular belief they're there to help you. Good luck to you.

Response by SPC Allison Joy Cumming made May 7 at 2015 2:15 PM

2015-05-07T14:15:33-04:00

Let's see, basic was fun for me... Turned 21 and was given a free trip to the gas chamber, lol. I will never forget it that is for sure. Much of basic is a mind game. The whole goal is to break you down so you can be rebuilt. If you keep in mind that it is the intention of your Drill Sergeant to break you mentally and physically you will be in good shape. I know that sounds terrible, but, if you think about it the situations you may be in you WILL get hurt if you get flustered, don't pay attention to detail, scared beyond the ability to operate, you name it. Not that I wasn't "scared", tired, hungry, or frustrated many times, but always keeping in mind that it was important for me to feel those things and still move and operate as a soldier.

I am sure you will hear many great stories. I hope you find what you are looking for in our answers, take only those that feel right for you!

Response by SPC Jim Dreyer made May 7 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-05-07T14:18:24-04:00

Get yourself a good pair of running shoes and start doing PT now

Response by SPC Jim Dreyer made May 7 at 2015 2:22 PM

2015-05-07T14:22:09-04:00

Get a good pair of running shoes and start doing PT now.

Response by SGT Jorge Gonzalez made May 7 at 2015 2:22 PM

2015-05-07T14:22:09-04:00

You are not lowly you are part of a big family who look out for each other. Stay positive you will be broken and rebuild during basic training and it will prepare you for your future as a soldier.
Team work is what will help you it will be tough, but you will prevail. There will be times when you will wonder what the hell am I doing ,but just remember they are getting you ready mentally you will do just fine

Response by CPT Anthony Kennedy made May 7 at 2015 2:30 PM

2015-05-07T14:30:36-04:00

When the Drill SGT says move..... Do it faster than the persons to your right and left. Doing this will make will keep you out of the line of sight when they are on the prowl for slackers.

Always lock your wall locker!

Response by SGT Jonathan Whitehead made May 7 at 2015 2:34 PM

2015-05-07T14:34:36-04:00

These guys got your back pretty well but one thing I haven't noticed yet.

Boots:
Get fitted now, on your own time, find out what fits right in standard issue brands (Bates and Belleville are likely bets)

Do NOT under any circumstances let the person issuing boots give you the wrong size.

They will be in a hurry to get a ton of soldiers fitted and through but this tiny amount of extra time to force them to get the right fitting boots will make BCT much more tolerable.

If you've been wearing Nikes your whole life I'd start wearing boots now and get callouses in the right places too if you can. I saw more than one kid bleed through his boots on ruck marches due to poor sizing or never wearing boots before.

Good luck man.

Response by CW3 Michael M. made May 7 at 2015 2:34 PM

2015-05-07T14:34:08-04:00

Ask yourself why you joined, if your joined for the right reasons, you will do more than fine, you don't go there to show them how much you already know! You are going there for "basic training"...basic....training...and you said it like a real troop! huah! you said: "...I am young and not experienced or know much....(WOW...perfectly said....remember that when you arrive and you will do just fine....I would not waste anymore time listening to a bunch of war stories and how I survived my tour of "Camp Swampy") Your days are going to be what you make of them, your life will be the same, reading through individuals personal stories of what someone has endured, dealt with, happened to them, are always amazing the first time and every time afterwards. at least to me it has, but I might be easily amused. Remember at the end of this endeavor of yours, why it is you joined...follow your heart and pursue your dreams and anything worth doing is hard and anything that is hard is worth doing! HUAH!

Response by SrA Diego Alvarez made May 7 at 2015 2:49 PM

2015-05-07T14:49:28-04:00

Always be at the right place, at the right time, in right uniform.
If you don't know, ask.
All the bs is temporary, but your attitude will determine your character and that will last you your lifetime.

Response by SSgt Joe V. made May 7 at 2015 2:49 PM

2015-05-07T14:49:25-04:00

PVT Private RallyPoint Member -
1. The good news is, you have three really good basic training names that will get abused from day one...take it from a VanAss(e)

2. I was stationed at Ft. Benning (albeit as an Air Force 'grunt') for all six years of my enlistment minus time spent in the sandbox. I think someone summed it up nicely - embrace the suck.

3. Take a right regardless of the road from Ft. Benning to Victory drive...if you see Ranger Joe's, you are somewhat safe (avoid the Denny's if it is still there) - I will say again...don't go left - you'll be wrong.

4. When buying a vehicle in or around Columbus, GA - don't.

5. The small ponds you see around have big bass in them. Take SGT Private RallyPoint Member 's advice and avoid the cliques. Fish instead...but not too close to the ranges...when they are live-firing...

6. Don't celebrate Monday night football at Cheddar's (if it is still there), drive back onto base drunk (so stupid), and try to hit deer on the golf course or Infantry Hall's front lawn. You won't hit them.

7. If she says her name is Peaches...it isn't really... (see number 3)

8. Volunteer for everything...why not get as much experience as you can (but don't be a suck up)

9. Don't show up to basic in orange parachute pants (do people still wear them?) and a wife-beater (tank-top or sleeveless shirt if I offended anyone) and think you'll fly under the radar...

10. Enjoy

Response by SGT David Stewart made May 7 at 2015 2:51 PM

2015-05-07T14:51:30-04:00

Keep your mouth shut unless spoken to by a DS. Never volunteer for anything. Don't question anything. Move with a purpose. Start doing push ups, sit ups and running now to help prepare yourself. And remember basic training is all about attention to detail. It is 90% mental, 10% physical

Response by PFC Kyle Corcoran made May 7 at 2015 2:58 PM

2015-05-07T14:58:05-04:00

1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Don't ever call a female drill sergeant ,"Ma'am".
3. Don't put your damn hands in your pockets.

Response by SFC Timothy Snapp made May 7 at 2015 3:01 PM

2015-05-07T15:01:39-04:00

God gave you two eyes, two ears and one mouth. Meaning you should look and listen four times as much as you talk. Watch others to see what works and what doesn't. Listen to what others say and the responses they get. At that point, you will be able to make quick and logical decisions that will keep you on the move up.

Never consider yourself "a lowly private" Where do you think Command Sergeants Majors come from? Even your drill sergeants were basic training privates. Everyone in the army has gone through a very similar experience that you will have. Prepare yourself physically over the summer for both the physical and mental challenges you will face. Identify what motivates you, what depresses you and how to identify when those feelings are creeping into your mind.

Response by MAJ Roderick Pinkney made May 7 at 2015 3:07 PM

2015-05-07T15:07:31-04:00

Welcome to the family. You will find no worse scoundrels or better people that exist on this planet than in the military. be one of the latter to your fellow soldiers. It will shape the rest of your life.

Response by SSG William Patton made May 7 at 2015 3:10 PM

2015-05-07T15:10:58-04:00

My experiences in basic and AIT, both served at Tiger Land, Ft. Polk, LA., would not help you much today. It was a different time and a different Army. However, one thing I would think would hold true and that is the transitioning from a civilian to a soldier, just the methods of doing that have change. Do the best you can in all your training. Give it your all. Be respectful of the institution, the officers and the NCOs that will be training you. Head their advice and your transition will be easier. Good luck.

Response by SSG Jerrold English made May 7 at 2015 3:14 PM

2015-05-07T15:14:18-04:00

First... Use good judgement! Don't follow the loud mouths! Other then that Jump in with both feet running! They Are going to brainwash you, there's no getting around that lol If ever there will be a time in your life to Cowboy up Now is the time. Ask more questions and do more listening. Never fight your Brother's, You may be spending time in a foxhole with em.

Brotherhood is love. Once you know it you'll never settle for anything less.

Response by SPC Robert Myers made May 7 at 2015 3:15 PM

2015-05-07T15:15:40-04:00

Keep your visibility low. Don't attract attention unless you warranted such action. Do as your told; this will come easy because it's all one unit working as a team. Don't fall in with the trouble makers. Drink water, if you smoke/chew give it up until you are done and out of basic and AIT. Just take each day one day at a time. Don't focus on the upcoming tasks till it's on the agenda for the day. Stay with your battle buddy. Go to church on Sunday, if you don't have a specific denomination just pick one. Doesn't matter where you go just get out of the barracks and enjoy the time away from any and all hassle, especially on God's day. Next you know you'll be a soldier. As you going into the infantry, sign up for all the school you are able to take. Even if you don't think you'll be able to do it now...trust me you'll be able to do it after you are out of basic training. (Airborne/Air Assault/if you think you will be ready have your recruiter sign you up for RIP then you'll be onto Ranger school) Just get all that training out of the way early. You don't want to do it when you are stagnant and you'll have to train your body up again to face the rigors of that type of training. You'll learn about deployments when you get there. I wouldn't worry about it right now.

I learned the hard way and I didn't complete all the things I wanted to do with my time in service. I wish someone would of told me everything I just told you before I joined. When you graduate each and every class/training, stand up straight and tall, be proud of yourself because not many of your peers at your age group will have accomplished and completed 75% of what you are about to embark on. Watch your six lightfighter! Godspeed.

Response by SGT Charles Letness made May 7 at 2015 3:15 PM

2015-05-07T15:15:58-04:00

The best advice I would suggest applies for when you're in transit for Benning. There are two types of people going to basic training. There are the ones who are quiet and somber, thinking about what is coming up and then you have those who are constantly talking and won't shut up. They are the ones that are wearing a hillbilly shirt with cut off sleeves when it is freezing cold, wearing a cowboy hat, cowboy boots, a giant belt buckle and sunglasses on when it is dark outside along with a dip the size of an apple in their mouth. Stay away from these guys at all cost! These guys are the ones who show up to training thinking that they are the best and the brightest of everyone else and they should be singled out for their perceived greatness and ability, despite the fact that there will likely be at least 50 to 100 additional recruits there as well. They are the ones seeking attention and they will get it, but it won't be the attention they want. NCO's (Non Commissioned Officers), Drill Sergeants, Training Cadres and Officers hate these guys and they can spot them a mile away. When they sink their teeth into these clowns, they do it without mercy or compassion and usually anyone who is associated with them gets a bit of the negative attention as well.

In addition, don't listen to anyone else unless the Drill Sergeant or Training NCO directs you too. The only person you should be listening too at Basic Training is the Drill Sergeant. If he/she tells you to do something, then it's a good idea to do it. If another recruit tells you to do it, and they haven't been identified by the Drill Sergeant as the Platoon Guide or Assistant Platoon Guide, then tell them to go to hell. A new term to start adjusting yourself too is "Take all directions from the tower", which basically means that there is one source that will be guiding you through training and that "Tower" is a metaphor for the Drill Sergeant.

Also, start accepting it now, but you will get yelled at and chewed out by one or two Drill Sergeants at least once during your training. It is unavoidable. No matter how good of a recruit you are and how well you perform, you will piss them off at least once (Realistically-well more than once). One thing to consider here with stuff like this, is that everyone in the Army, no matter what rank they are, gets yelled at, everyone. Sergeants get yelled at, Lieutenants especially get yelled at, as well as Captains and Colonels, and yes, even Drill Sergeants get yelled at too. Everyone gets yelled at in the Army.

Next, try not to make to many expectations about what will happen at reception station and when it will happen. The only thing you should expect at reception is a new haircut and a pair of socks. Anything else, your training NCO's will tell you.

I went to basic training in the late 90's and it was done at Benning. You'll be spooked and afraid, but don't worry, it is normal. It is that nervousness and fear, along with your Drill Sergeants and fellow recruits that will get you through it. Just know who the right people are and listen to them. That way, you can' go wrong. Best of luck.

Response by SPC Daniel Bowen made May 7 at 2015 3:17 PM

2015-05-07T15:17:02-04:00

You will be partnered up with a buddy in basic so watch each other's back. Corrective criticism is your best friend so soak it in. Listen to your drill sergeants, even if it doesn't make sense. Their combat boots have more life experience than most that come through Sand Hill so listen and note when you can.
Some words I carry with me every day since my time at Sand Hill: "There is a method behind my madness, so trust the madness".

Response by CPL Roland Newton made May 7 at 2015 3:19 PM

2015-05-07T15:19:39-04:00

Never forget! You decide what kind of person you are going to be. Every choice is your own. Best of Luck

Response by 1SG Pete Marcell made May 7 at 2015 3:29 PM

2015-05-07T15:29:49-04:00

Do push ups and flutter kicks until you think you're going to puke. Then do more. Oh, and drink water!

Really just be open to learning new things at a rapid rate, think ahead to what is coming next, be ready with your need gear, and be on time!

If you have the right attitude you have lots of fun, serious.

Good luck!

Response by SGT Dean Syron made May 7 at 2015 3:30 PM

2015-05-07T15:30:07-04:00

Push yourself really hard and don't take it personally.

Response by SGT Keith Williams made May 7 at 2015 3:29 PM

2015-05-07T15:29:56-04:00

Do as you're told, never let your battle buddies down. Keep your head up, it can feel like there is no hope. Just push harder.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 3:31 PM

2015-05-07T15:31:27-04:00

Pay attention to detail, learn as much as you can, take advantage of the education progams available and always do the right thing.

Response by SFC Jack Bennett made May 7 at 2015 3:34 PM

2015-05-07T15:34:52-04:00

Get in shape , pushups, sit ups running , get hold of the Army PT test and practice it You will find it on the internet. Do what your told listen to your Drill Sargent and Commander

You will make good Soldier

Response by SFC Rob W. made May 7 at 2015 3:38 PM

2015-05-07T15:38:36-04:00

Very simple, Young Private. Understand that everything your Drill Sergeant(s) do is very carefully calculated to teach you to have confidence in yourself, your teammates, your unit, your Army, and your country. Drill Sergeants are here to educate and train you in a very different way of life -- you are NOT being trained to man the hamburger grill at the local fast food place. Instead, you are being trained to defend yourself, your teammates, your Army, etc., etc. ... . In reality, you are being trained to defend your country and all that entails.

Embrace the concept that many, many years have gone into developing this training program and it works! Don't like being screamed at? Don't like doing pushups because someone else did something wrong? I'm not sorry at all about that... I went through myself and didn't "enjoy" it. I pushed recruits through it at Ft. Benning for more than two years -- still didn't "enjoy" it. On the other hand, I wasn't there to enjoy the experience -- I was there to be trained and there to train others. Being a Drill Sergeant was a very grave responsibility -- I was training young men to fulfill a role in our country's defense, and training them to accept a grave responsibility that they would do so willingly, even at grave risk to themselves. And guess what? The training worked, even if they didn't enjoy a "Summer Camp" experience.

You are being sent to the best school in the world. It is not there to make your experience a pleasure. It exists to teach you to stop thinking about yourself, and to instead think about a much higher responsibility to the others you are sworn to defend. It exists to teach you to THINK before you act, but with the experience of understanding what the situation is, how to accomplish the goal of resolving it, and with the least harm to yourself and your teammates. Good luck.

Response by SFC Chad Sowash made May 7 at 2015 3:45 PM

2015-05-07T15:45:03-04:00

Shut-up, listen, learn and embrace the suck.

Chad Sowash
Infantry Drill

Response by SFC Jeffery Carson made May 7 at 2015 3:46 PM

2015-05-07T15:46:48-04:00

As a former recruiter I recommend that you read your soldier handbook which you should have or you can download. Learn things like your general orders, rank structure, and the seven Army Values. Other than that enjoy the once in a lifetime experience of basic training for yourself.

Response by 1LT Carl Kilgore made May 7 at 2015 3:50 PM

2015-05-07T15:50:21-04:00

I agree with the other posts, that your decision should not be considered "lowly" and thank you for stepping up and your willingness to serve our great nation.

First, don't fall into bad habits. Stay clear of the trainees with bad attitudes and go into Basic with a positive "can do" attitude. Give all of your training 100%. Fort Benning is going to be H.O.T. in Aug-Sept, so drink lots of water, stay clear of the soda and anything that will zap your hydration.

Second, remember your instructors in Basic Training are there for you to succeed, not to fail like more advanced Infantry and combat training you may seek later in your career. Also remember, it's "basic". You will learn more at your unit but should take away all the "basics" you can from your initial training.

Lastly, focus on good ole D.I.R.T.F.T (Do It Right The First Time). You've got a lot of learning ahead of you. You're basically in "first grade" of soldiering and some are coming in through JROTC and other "pre training" and those soldiers may have picked up some bad habits. Listen to your instructors and do it right. Form good soldiering habits now and those habits will also transfer into civilian skills if and when you decide to separate.

You're doing a great thing young man. Thank you.

Response by CPT James Hubbard made May 7 at 2015 3:53 PM

2015-05-07T15:53:06-04:00

Rule #1. Listen to your Drill Sergeant!!!
Rule #2. DO NOT try to fool your Drill Sergeant!!!
Rule #3. Refer to Rule #1.

Response by SSG Richard Reilly made May 7 at 2015 3:54 PM

2015-05-07T15:54:57-04:00

Be loud. Be Proud. Do what you are told.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 3:55 PM

2015-05-07T15:55:50-04:00

Stay alert and pay attention! Don't stick out like a sore thumb! Be mindful of your peers and surbordinate others! Look out for each other and take your training seriously!

Response by SPC Steven Depuy made May 7 at 2015 3:59 PM

2015-05-07T15:59:29-04:00

Thanks for being part of the 1%, not sure any of my advice or experiences would help since I went to boot camp in 1976, I am sure in 39 years, things have changed. Best advice I would give someone is shut up, do what your told, do your best at everything they ask you to do. Chance if you do those things, you will get out of there with a PV2 stripe, which means more pay.

Response by SGT James Vidito made May 7 at 2015 3:58 PM

2015-05-07T15:58:55-04:00

First of all, don't call yourself lowly. You've made a commitment few ever make. No, you're not a soldier yet, but you're in the queue, and that counts as far as I'm concerned.

1. Be extremely agreeable (yes, Sergeant or Drill Sergeant - whichever their preference)
2. Shut up and do what you're told
3. Listen close the first time - they already told you how to do it
4. Don't be THAT person - they'll tell you why at some point...just do it for now
5. Enjoy your time - you'll make lifelong friends in basic

That's it for now...

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 4:01 PM

2015-05-07T16:01:05-04:00

Welcome to the family. Be engaged but also know when to be quiet.

Response by SGT Scott Henderson made May 7 at 2015 4:04 PM

2015-05-07T16:04:01-04:00

Think about your future. Meaning, do you plan on being career military or getting out after a few years? Also, what skills do you want to transfer to the civilian world when you are done? I was a scout for 10yrs then got MedBoarded and can't use many of my skills; so now I'm going to school. If you want a career I'd say to do the combat arms thing for your initial enlistment. When you get into your reenlistment window see what MOS's are open; use the BEAR program and find a skill set you can use if you have to get out before your time.
As for finances, being infantry gives you free range almost as far as schools go. Do airborne, ranger, and anything else that puts extra money in your pocket. Sign up for the TSP or open your own IRA and put ALL your extra pays into it. If you're single stay that way and live in the barracks until you make 5 at least. If you move out find a place that can be covered as much as possible by your BAH; don't come out of pocket for anything you don't have to. I think that's enough for now. Any questions thing else just ask.

Response by SPC David Holland made May 7 at 2015 4:04 PM

2015-05-07T16:04:42-04:00

Start a savings plan and save money in a ira its free money dont spend your money mindlessly like i did , save for your future

Response by SSG Sean Knudsen made May 7 at 2015 4:07 PM

2015-05-07T16:07:58-04:00

First, have another meeting with your recruiter and ask the questions necessary to answer your concerns. Second, stay out of trouble before leaving for training. Third, embrace the suck factors of Infantry life outdoors 365 days a year. Not every recruit is qualified for Infantry training let alone life in an Infantry platoon.

Last, remember that Jodi is always glad you left town.

Response by SGT Lynn Strezeski, DSc made May 7 at 2015 4:14 PM

2015-05-07T16:14:57-04:00

I graduated from Basic Training a little over 10 years ago (at Ft Leonard Wood), so this may be dated advice; however, the best advice I can give you is to just stop thinking. First, you will not have enough food nor sleep to power both your brain and your body; moving your body is much more important. Nobody sees what goes on in your head. Secondly, if you start to question WHY you are doing things a certain way, because you know that there is some better way or maybe you just find something arbitrary and ridiculous, you will go out of your mind and be miserable.

All that being said, take time to look around once in a while and truly be present in the moment. This is something you'll never have the experience of doing again, and it will go by so quickly. You will find out things about yourself that you truly didn't know prior to your enlistment, regardless of your age going into it.

Response by SSG Marciano Gonzalez made May 7 at 2015 4:15 PM

2015-05-07T16:15:42-04:00

Do your best at all times and don't let other influence you on your decisions and do the best of your life in the military.God bless you.

Response by SGT Kristin Myers made May 7 at 2015 4:25 PM

2015-05-07T16:25:12-04:00

There really is no advice to give except listen, don't talk unless talked to, don't fall out, do your best and become part of the team. There is no I anymore. You will figure it out quickly and excell! Welcome to the best thing that you will ever be a part of.

Response by SGM Richard Nicklas made May 7 at 2015 4:25 PM

2015-05-07T16:25:14-04:00

I was a Drill Aegean for 3 years at Ft Benning School for Boys in 1985-1988. Bottom line, NEVER QUIT, GIVE UP or say I can't /won't! You will be told to do things that to you don't make sense or that you fully understand. You will be hot, wet, dirty, tired, hungry, and you'll be yelled at by superiors. There is method to the madness that is time honored and proven. Focus on getting stronger, orienting to military life, helping your buddy, and begin to accept the early stages of Warrior development. Start running/jogging now, start building your shoulders, back, arms by doing modified push-ups to full well elevated push-ups, most of all work on your core strength and hydration now. DO NOT injure yourself. Start slow and build slow. Memorize what they tell you, Soldier's Creed, cyclic rate and parts to infantry weapons systems. But most of all don't ever quit or mouth off to the chain of command or your battle buddy. Oh did I say you' be hot, dirty & tired? Good luck soldier!

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 4:27 PM

2015-05-07T16:27:13-04:00

Hunter,

Great advise from everyone. I was not in the Army, but was a Marine. Listen to your superiors and do everything that you are instructed to do to the best of your ability. In other words, be a squared away soldier. In addition, be an excellent planner. Plan out your days, weeks, and months so that you are always prepared and on top of things. If you are having an inspection, do not wait until the last minute to have your uniform arranged, weapon cleaned, etc. Discipline, planning, and organization will take you a long ways in the military, and whatever follows military service.

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made May 7 at 2015 4:30 PM

2015-05-07T16:30:31-04:00

There is no lowly soldier in the book, Welcome to the band of brother, Before Basic Training..

Practice Waking up at 0400(04:00 AM) and Do PT.
Push up, Sit up, 1 mile run.
Learn the Army Value and soldier creed.

Also learn Army ranks structure.

Response by CW4 John Vasko, Jr. made May 7 at 2015 4:35 PM

2015-05-07T16:35:30-04:00

Be proud, be positive, be respectful! Enjoy what you learn. Always do you best to achieve the goals you have set for yourself. Fear is common in all aspects of new jobs but failure is never an option. The Infantry is the absolute best! Be the BEST! Thank you for Joining.

Response by SGT Richard Stowers made May 7 at 2015 4:39 PM

2015-05-07T16:39:17-04:00

Don't be afraid of hard work. Volunteering for details will get you noticed. Live the suck. Embrace the suck. Love the suck! Start studying early. If you have spare time, whip out a copy of the NCO study guide. Get your NCO's to set up mock boards to prepare you for later i.e. soldier of the month, quarter, and promotion boards. A little work every day is a lot easier than cramming for a board 3 days before-hand. and cut that lowly future soldier crap. Everyone starts out new. No one joins the military as "lowly".

Response by COL Tom Wilkinson made May 7 at 2015 4:39 PM

2015-05-07T16:39:25-04:00

Welcome to the Profession of Arms, and more importantly the Infantry!

Lots of great advice flowing here! Best advice, do not stick out! Stay below the radar, don't be a spring-butt, cooperate and graduate. Be a leader when tasked, but ALWAYS follow when it is your role to do so. Basic will build your character and mold you into the type of Soldier you want to be. Don't be a slacker and always set your standards high. Live the Core Values but always maintain your integrity. Listen to your DI and make sure you know "what right looks like!" Stay the course, it will be over before you know it! Enjoy the ride as a career if that is what you want, my dad told me "You'll never be rich, but you'll never be poor." I had a great 31 year ride. Best of luck, you will do great!

Infantry Leads the Way! HOOAH!

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 4:42 PM

2015-05-07T16:42:16-04:00

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. And try to lead your peers. Leading teaches you great lessons about how to handle all kinds of situations.

Response by SSG Ed DeBlecourt made May 7 at 2015 4:48 PM

2015-05-07T16:48:05-04:00

Don't listen to the "barracks lawyers" meaning people who think they know it all yet are in the same position you are

Response by CW2 Randy Whitten made May 7 at 2015 4:50 PM

2015-05-07T16:50:22-04:00

From the time you get off that bus till the time you leave for your duty assignment - carry your self by example and do as you are told by the cadre. It will be tough but it will be rewarding and one day you will look back and say that it wasn't that bad after all. You will need to be prepared to loose sleep and work long hours. But your colleagues will be there beside you and encourage teamwork as that will ensure that it goes by smoother. Last but not least. Enjoy it. Only a selected few individual get to attend BCT and AIT. Feel proud to honor the flag so that others can sleep at night and just know that millions of others have followed in your foot steps also and have survived. Good luck and please let us know when you get to your graduation day.

Response by SFC Michael Filyo made May 7 at 2015 4:50 PM

2015-05-07T16:50:55-04:00

First of all good luck with your new career choice.
1. You and all the other recruits will be new to the military, this will be a test for all of you. You guys are all one team now. Take care of your battle buddies!
2. Pay attention to your drill sergeants, they only have a short time to train you. Some things may not seem important, but there is a reason for it.
3. Life is what you make it. Take the cards that you are dealt with and make it the best you can!
4. Be all that you can be! Thanks for volunteering! Good luck!

Response by SGT Tony Shope made May 7 at 2015 4:51 PM

2015-05-07T16:51:27-04:00

I was an NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer) MP at Benning from 84-87. In Boot the best advice is keep a low profile until you begin to shine. Example you run the PT test the fastest, are a great shot etc. Help your fellow trainees, but watch what is happening with them. If your a close friend and this guy turns out to be a turd. Then your a turd. The ones who are turds are generally weeded out in 3-4 weeks. Volunteer for nothing (Suck Up) accept to assist a fellow soldier example a fellow trainee gets hurt and volunteers are needed to carry him out of the fields or clear a medivac area. Get your ass up there in a hurry. Bet a team player. Good luck young trooper. Stay away from the clubs and don't FFFF with the rangers. Hope that helps

Response by SPC Brandon Taylor made May 7 at 2015 4:53 PM

2015-05-07T16:53:23-04:00

Basic Training is the easiest part of military service. Don't think just do what you are told and you will be fine. This training is designed for success.

Response by SGT Scott Wills made May 7 at 2015 4:54 PM

2015-05-07T16:54:39-04:00

I recommend that you be in shape when you get there. It is much easier to listen and learn what you need when you are not fatigued. Start now with 10 pushups and 10 situps each time that you can do them during the day, every hour if possible. Go for a jog every morning or evening. Welcome to the brotherhood...

Response by SPC Ronald Casey made May 7 at 2015 4:57 PM

2015-05-07T16:57:08-04:00

I will tell you this you are coming in man or a women but you will come out better than you were when you went in real wrap I would not change it for the world I would do it all over again if I could I miss it so much

Response by SFC Scott Fifield made May 7 at 2015 4:56 PM

2015-05-07T16:56:38-04:00

Greetings, welcome to the best organization in the world. The military is the best place for a young and inexperienced individual to learn how to be a productive individual in our society. To stand tall head held high, proud of who you are becoming. Whether you make the military a career or just serve a tour or two it will shape you into a person that all you know, will be proud of. My advice to you is to always listen to those appointed over you. Whether you agree or not with the orders. Follow them if they are lawful. If after you complete the order you have questions about the order, tactfully ask the individual who gave the order to explain it to you so you can understand the order to make you a better soldier in the future. Secondly, get involved with the Thrift Savings Plan TSP, put at least 10% of your pay into the plan and forget about it. When you turn 60 you will have over a million dollars available for your retirement years. Thanks for serving your country, and enjoy all that is available to you, education, travel, untold rewards that you will discover daily.

Response by SGT Ryan Johnson made May 7 at 2015 4:57 PM

2015-05-07T16:57:34-04:00

Never give up or question your drill sergeant unless you feel it is unethical. I was told to never volunteer for anything and to keep quiet or you will be the drill sergeant's example to other soldiers. I followed those rules and my drill sergeant's expressed how much they liked me and that I was a good soldier. The bad soldiers don't do what the drill sergeant's say or think they don't want to be there anymore and will do anything to get kicked out so stay away from those people. You can volunteer for things but do so cautiously, you are there to train to become a good soldier and everything you learn in basic you will use in your military career.

Response by SGT William Hardy made May 7 at 2015 4:57 PM

2015-05-07T16:57:48-04:00

Keep your ears open and mouth shut unless spoken to directly or indirectly have fun its not that bad

Response by SPC James Pierson made May 7 at 2015 4:59 PM

2015-05-07T16:59:13-04:00

I have been reading a lot of the comments on here, and I have to say that this is all pretty good advice. The drill sergeants are just people. It may seem like they are being hard asses, but thats their job - to tear you down and build you back up again. With that in mind, if anything is bothering you, ask one of your sergeants to talk. But do not complain about the training. Basic Training, in my experience, is the most dificult thing you will encounter in your millitary career. It will be a tough 9 weeks, but keep your head high, take it one day at a time, and do not take anything they say personally. It will all be worth it on graduation day.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made May 7 at 2015 5:00 PM

2015-05-07T17:00:56-04:00

Ears open, mouth shut unless spoken do, do whatever DS tells you to do, and LEARN LEARN LEARN.

Response by PVT William Bresch made May 7 at 2015 5:03 PM

2015-05-07T17:03:53-04:00

First of all, your attitude is wrong.

1. Your a professional Fighting machine, designed to protect those who can't protect themselves.

2. Take no shit off of anyone.

3. Be proud of who you are.

4. Out think your opponent every-time.

5. Just remember, all rank is , shows how much you make, not how Intelligent the person is. most people wave it in your face, tell you how bad ass they are and usually are the first ones to get killed.

6. You come first, every single Time...

7. Wash, Rinse, Repeat ...

Fort Benning is an awesome base and a great place to learn. I would suggest after basic, learning all you can and use every opportunity to your advantage...

NOW GO FORTH AND KICK ASS !!!

Response by SGT Jay Grant made May 7 at 2015 5:04 PM

2015-05-07T17:04:00-04:00

Just listen to what the drill sergeants are telling you and also don't think that they are yelling just at you , but to your squad/ platoon You will have very early wake-ups (0300 - on ) and be up for several hours normally closing up at 2100 ( 9pm ) You will be pulling guard duty every so often and also pulling KP ( kitchen Police or something like that ) You will have inspections which are sometimes not announced so be sure your wall locker and foot locker are squared away ! Basic Training can be a very exciting experience and if you smoke , forget it , not allowed ! You will do an unthinkable amount of push-ups and other exercises during the day You will also have a Physical Training ( PT ) Test The 1st one is generally a diagnostic one to see where you are in physical fitness the rest are for record which you will have to pass to graduate at some point I took Basic at Ft Jackson, SC in 1988 when I enlisted in the National Guard All components of the Army go through some initial training Btw , You will also go to classes during the day and have night fire training as well during the middle point in your training You will also do the military's edition of camping I hope that this gives you some clarity to Basic Training Good Luck !

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made May 7 at 2015 5:10 PM

2015-05-07T17:10:15-04:00

My first advice is to get in shape. If you are capable of passing the PT with scores of 90 or better in each event, that's half the battle. Some of the recruiting commands offer pre basic instruction for new recruits, take it if it's available. The more you know, the easier it is to pass. If you are not the outdoors type, I highly advise getting some time in the woods with a pack. Expect to be either hot and miserable or cold and miserable, it is just a fact of life for grunts. The last thing is to remember is that Drill isn't some monster, it's his job to get you through this program while teaching the basics, or since Benning is OSUT, and the advanced parts of being an Infantry Soldier. I spent 13 years active and active reserve, my Senior Drill from basic is the soldier I still respect the most. SSG Micheal Priestly, by name.

Response by SGT Michelle Filkovich made May 7 at 2015 5:14 PM

2015-05-07T17:14:23-04:00

Looks like you have all the advice you need. All I have to say is get excited! Things will be tough, but you are about to join a HUGE family and your life will never be the same. Welcome to the United States Army.

Response by CPL Bryan Claeys made May 7 at 2015 5:14 PM

2015-05-07T17:14:47-04:00

Day 1 of basic I had a phrase drilled into my head and I still believe in it: "Attention to detail, teamwork is key". What it means is to pay attention to everything that is being taught to you and work as a team. Don't try to do everything by yourself because you'll fail. And don't try to pull one over on your drills/cadre because they've been there and done that.

Response by LTC Gary Orsetti made May 7 at 2015 5:14 PM

2015-05-07T17:14:53-04:00

PVT: Never, ever forget, that you can do anything you set your mind to. Will it be difficult? Yes, without a doubt. But it will be just as difficult for all your platoon/company comrades. Draw strength from them. Focus on the end goal: being a U.S. soldier-the very best on the planet. Take it a day, an hour, at a time. I'm sure you will be fine. And when basic is over, and you march in that graduation ceremony, you'll know that it was more than worth it. Never give up-simply continue to march! P.S. - there is no such thing as a lowly soldier.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 5:16 PM

2015-05-07T17:16:27-04:00

Change to the Air Force now.

Response by SFC Gerome Cabe made May 7 at 2015 5:21 PM

2015-05-07T17:21:33-04:00

Well for one start running. 2 pay attention. 3 no matter how stupid any task seems just do it we all did it your Drill Sergeants did basic once when they came in and then again when they went to Drill Sergeant school guess which time was harder. As a Drill Sergeant myself don't hide in the back step forward and take charge when asked for volunteers. Thats the soldiers that stood out and always did the best.

Response by SGT Dusten Irwin made May 7 at 2015 5:29 PM

2015-05-07T17:29:42-04:00

First, thank you for making an amazing decision! Second, keep your pie hole shut, eyes and ears open. And don't get you or your buddy killed!

Response by SSG Carlos Penalber made May 7 at 2015 5:35 PM

2015-05-07T17:35:00-04:00

As a private, just do what your told! Listen to your DS and when you get to your duty station take initiative and start taking college classes and work on keeping a high PT score to get promoted faster

Response by SP5 Tom Carlson made May 7 at 2015 5:35 PM

2015-05-07T17:35:54-04:00

NOse to the grindstone , ear open , muth shut unless spoken too...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 5:41 PM

2015-05-07T17:41:42-04:00

Son, having served two tours as a drill sergeant at fort benning, I can tell you this and I am being straight up with you. Go with an open mind. Don't go with a know it all attitude. Don't complain when its hot, you're tired, hungry, sore ,etc. Instead listen to your drill sergeant and concentrate on your training as your first assignment could be Iraq/Afganistan, or who knows. The drill sergeant may bark loud but he wont bite and he cant eat you. He is there to train you to survive. As I used to tell soldiers " step back and think" This could be you in a few years ( being a drill sergeant ) but first I must train you to survive because when you leave me, you may get on a plane to some country to fight. Trust me and learn from me. I will make you lean and mean enough to whoop a bear with a switch.
So, there are a lot of rules and disclipine and some days seem like they will never end. But you will be so proud on graduation day. The three major things you learn are Physical Training, Basic Rifle Marksmanship, & Drill & Ceremonies. Is it tough ?? Yes. Just think how many Millions of soldiers incuding myself went through it and survived.
Last, I want to personally thank you for having the desire to serve this great country of ours.
Feel free to ask me about anything, anytime. Sfc (retired ) grogan [login to see]

Response by CW4 Marion Owens made May 7 at 2015 5:43 PM

2015-05-07T17:43:54-04:00

Things to do before reporting.
Work on your physical condition, eat heathy, no smoking, no drinking alcohol, stay away from drugs..

When you get there, mouth shut, eyes and ears open...team work is the key...get and keep a "can do" positive attitude... Fellow instructions NO short cuts..

Wish you well in your endeavors...Go Army

Response by SPC Joel Quey made May 7 at 2015 5:45 PM

2015-05-07T17:45:56-04:00

One of the first things I always tell people is that everyone's experience will be different, so you have to assume your experience will be as well. Fort Benning is known for being a bit more intense than some of the other Basic Training posts, which for some people is a good thing. But even there, it's going to vary from unit to unit.

I've never been to Benning, but I've heard that the Drill Sergeants there sometimes break the rules that are designed to protect soldiers in training. If it's minor, I'd ignore it, but if it's a problem, don't be afraid to go to see the IG, or talk to a chaplain about it. Even if you're not religious at all, the chaplain should go to bat for you. These rules are there to protect you.

Overall, the biggest factor will probably be the people you're around, so try to get along with people. In Basic, the worst part was that 3 of the guys in my platoon were obnoxious. I really enjoyed AIT because everyone I was around was pretty cool.

Response by SPC Derek Mason made May 7 at 2015 5:47 PM

2015-05-07T17:47:19-04:00

Three things: Shut up and listen- your drill sergeants are going to be the biggest dick heads in the world but they are your dick heads for the next 9 weeks + and they will teach you more than you can handle and then some; show up 15 minutes early for everything- even "balls watch" shift of fire guard (that's the midnight to 4 am) this will only benefit you, and keep you out of trouble; no matter how much you need that "fatty cake" (any snack cake or candy) or "sugar jizz" (whatever is not water or milk) STAY AWAY FROM THEM!!!

additionally PT every chance you get, once you are out of red phase most DS will let you go outside and preform PT on your own. do this it will help with your PT score and turn you into a stud!

best of luck!!

PFC MASON
OIF OEF

Response by SFC Phillip Wiley made May 7 at 2015 5:53 PM

2015-05-07T17:53:21-04:00

First off never say lowly future soldier, no matter how bad it is at times being a soldier is an honor and once your in and your military brothers come and go you will understand that more.

Secondly basic is a knock down drag out drain, but if you have ever went to boy scout camp or anything else it really is just the same with attitude. You will get yelled at .. you will pound your face .. do grass drills .. screw up . don't sweat it as everyone will. Even if you don't mess up you will :)

Be ready to make some of the best friends in your life and loose some also. That's the good. The bad basic is a break in time and you never know how people are truly going to be. Some honorable, some not so much, so keep your shit locked up,

What is expected make sure you shaved, make sure your bunk is tight, expect to be tired, expect to have your head shaved. (don't sweat that it grows back and hell in the heat it is better when your out in the dirt) listen to what the instructors have to say they have been where you are and have the shirt to prove it. If someone is getting by with something don't run crying about it sooner or later he will get caught. Stick as a group this is team building if they single some guy out unless he is just jacked the hell up (even if he is jacked up) pull him back in line. If they start dropping him to beat his face get everyone to do the same unity is the key and will make you through impossible tasks.

Well I will get off my soap box .. thank you for stepping up and good luck.. And when all gets bad just remember yoda and smile .. there is do or do not there is no try...:)

Response by SPC Nathaniel Reynolds made May 7 at 2015 6:03 PM

2015-05-07T18:03:02-04:00

I went to Ft. Benning in 1999 for Infantry training in August much like you, Ft. Benning is extremely hot and then unbelievably cold considering it's Georgia, so drink water (not that the Drills won't make you chug a canteen of water on the command of HYDRATE randomly through out the day). Basic training is tough, but my experience is that the real Army is more tough but more rewarding.

You will first arrive at in processing to get your gear, shots, etc. taken care of before you get assigned to a training battalion. Use your time there wisely, do PT when you can to stay in shape for all the pushups and other fun exercises the Drills will have for you when you arrive at your unit, it's no good to show up weak from eating all the lovely chow at in processing.

Pay attention to detail, listen to what the Drills are saying closely they sometimes like to trick you to see who's not paying attention. Learn your 3 general orders because you will be asked them through out your career in the Infantry. Show the Drills that you are capable of taking responsibility and can be put in charge, it can lead to a promotion at the end of training, just do it in a way so you don't look like a kiss ass, motivate a battle that's sucking, move with a purpose at all times. Try not to go to sick call unless absolutely necessary (everyone gets sick during basic, but the gas chamber will help clear up all the crud in your lungs). The job you are going into is physically tough, you will get boo boos, make sure you get injuries documented in medical records (I know don't go to sick call but get injuries documented seems counter intuitive, there's a difference between hurt and injured) because you will need evidence to bring to the VA when you get out.

Stay focused, get used to lack of sleep, remember that the suck ends eventually and keep pushing. If you don't know something, don't be afraid to ask, that goes for Basic as well as in the real Army, it's better to risk looking dumb than get dead because you didn't ask a question that could save your life. Don't get stagnant with your training, read training manuals and sign up for courses, don't rely on other people to know what to do, know what to do yourself, learn the job of the man above and below you because you might be doing that job in the matter of moments. Good luck, keep your head down (when it matters) and remember the sky is blue because God loves the Infantry!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 6:08 PM

2015-05-07T18:08:45-04:00

Sure. Fort Benning in August. Just in time for Monsoon Season.
Sand Hill / Harmony Church "Armor Center" it matters not.
I'm sure the lucky IE Private's Brigade CSM will requisition GOO
just in case there's a dry spell.

One other thing.
I know you IE iPhone people can't quite grasp is the concept of legible, hand-written letters.
Some better practice. Better yet ... type and print it. Being able to read helps.
Oh gee ... that means buying USPS Stamps too. Mail is important.
I've seen CSM's cry when they didn't get their daily box of Cigars and Retirement magazines.

Response by CPL Scott Martin made May 7 at 2015 6:15 PM

2015-05-07T18:15:16-04:00

Everyone starts out as a PV1, don't consider yourself lowly. That is the attitude that will break you in Basic instead, call it the first step to a great career. There is really nothing out here so why not join the military, Bravo on a great decision. I attended Basic at Ft. Benning in 1980 in the Harmony Church area(Alpha 4-1)which isn't there any more and will always remember it. In 1985 became a Reserve Drill Sgt. there so, what I can tell you is... Keep your ears OPEN and your mouth shut(I know it sound cliché) but it's been around for a long time and means something. Do everything with all your heart and dig deep. Don't be a complainer(Thousands of young men and woman have done this before you)you can do anything you set your mind too. Don't be afraid to volunteer(just not always)be a person others can look up too, help those that need help but, also make them push themselves. Watch the bad crowd(stay away)learn what you can above and beyond what is asked of you, ask questions. Good advice on the boots, change socks when ever you can, stay hydrated(don't become a heat casualty. And what ever you do, LOOK IN THE FOX HOLES BEFORE YOU JUMP IN. Lots of bad snakes in Georgia. Spent your time preparing for the next day. You will be fine. Just remember when times get tough, the tough keep on going. As far as schools go, take as many as you can, try for the Presidents award for PT, Expert Infantry, Combat Medic, take everything you can. Good luck

Response by CW2 Geoff Lachance made May 7 at 2015 6:23 PM

2015-05-07T18:23:13-04:00

Welcome aboard!

It was almost 44 years ago that I went to Basic as a very young naive 18 year old! I was told to keep my mouth shut and my eyes and ears open! That was good advise then and probably good advise now. At first you will be a bit uncomfortable, but that will change quickly as you grow.

I so wish I could be right beside you going through it!

You've already made it through the toughest part - you joined!!! Congratulations! Enjoy the ride!

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made May 7 at 2015 6:27 PM

2015-05-07T18:27:28-04:00

I learned my Army Ways at the Sand Hill School too, and my advice would be, run!
No, not run away. This is a running Army, so if you aren't a runner, work on that; particularly as an infantryman.

Other than that, just know that the Drill Sergeants are doing what they do for a purpose, even if you can't see it-and its OK not to see it or understand it right away. But as you work through OSUT and in the years to come, you will begin to understand why things are the way they are and why you trained as you did (For the most part. Some things, well, you'll scratch your head and just never understand! LOL).

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 6:35 PM

2015-05-07T18:35:39-04:00

Be ready to learn. Be the best you can be at your job. Don't be afraid to be self motivated about learning and expanding your understanding with regards to what ever your job & MOS is. Take your online courses. Do what your told. Work out on your own time to get higher scores on your PT test. Look out for your buddy's. Don't goof off or do things that gets you in the wrong spot light. Get used to "Hurry up and wait". Take really good care of your gear and supply's. Help other sections in your unit if you have free time. If I had to pick one section to help it would be 'Supply', they are your best friends. Dont be afraid to enlist lower enlisted to help you with tasks. Dont take anything personally. Some might tell you not to volunteer. Volunteer. Drink water, you'll be alright.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 6:57 PM

2015-05-07T18:57:48-04:00

Define what you want to do, and work toward that. The Army is a great decision, and you will be amazed at how many people are not taking advantage of benefits like tuition assistance (hint: you can get some financial aid on top of TA. )

Response by SGT John W Lugo made May 7 at 2015 7:51 PM

2015-05-07T19:51:10-04:00

First be proud for your commitment to your Country, Second congrats to you, Third enjoy the moment and stay out of trouble, respect your Drill instructors and follow the buddy system the greatest thing you will see is making it to graduation date knowing you are now part of the greatest gang in the world. "The United States Military "
God blessed and God speed.

Response by CPL Jeremy Florio made May 7 at 2015 7:55 PM

2015-05-07T19:55:35-04:00

the best thing in basic is no to be noticed at all just blend in and if you can get through with out the drills sergeant knowing who you are you did a great job . spc florio

Response by SPC Mark Beard made May 7 at 2015 7:57 PM

2015-05-07T19:57:15-04:00

KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT, AND YOUR EYES OPEN , DON'T VOLUNTEER FOR ANYTHING LOL AND NEVER GIVE UP TAKE ONE DAY AT A TIME BE IN SHAPE BEFORE YOU GO

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 8:09 PM

2015-05-07T20:09:36-04:00

I don't know much about the Army, but my experience in basic taught me that even things that suck don't last forever, and a person can deal with just about anything as long as they refuse to quit. I'd say putting yourself on autopilot - just following orders and not worrying about much else - was a good strategy.
Once you finish and you're a Soldier, you'll ship off pretty quickly for AIT. If I knew anything about it, I'd lay it on you, but I don't, so my best advice is to trust in the system when you get there, and always seek to improve.

Response by CH (MAJ) William Beaver made May 7 at 2015 8:15 PM

2015-05-07T20:15:01-04:00

Sand Hill in August?? Enjoy the suck.

Response by SSG Timothy McCoy made May 7 at 2015 8:19 PM

2015-05-07T20:19:07-04:00

PVT Hunter Hofmann Hitt,
You are starting on a glorious road to most noblest professions that spans the eons of time. The Roman Centurions were the Grunts of their days. Your are joining their Legends. We, you, my son, and I will have trooped some of the same ground. After 24 years I too have been there and Done that and the darn Tee Shirts have all shrunk.
The Army profession is a pathway, which you must take the lead in traveling it. You will need to chart a course which is right for you, at the time you make that decision. Along this pathway you must prepare yourself for either the future Battlefield or Boardroom or both. Your mind is like a parachute, if you need one and don't have one you may never need another one. Keep it about you clean, clear, and sharp.
If you can't be the first, don't be the last. Those in first and last will not be in other venues. We all have strengths and weaknesses, learn to embrace them.

Here are a few of my pointers;

1) Keep your Faith in your Lord and Savior, As you will become a Watchman on the Wall.

2) Fort Benning Parade Field, you will be walking of soil from all the Inf. battles for the last 200 years

3) Become the most Lethal item on the Battlefield, a smart Grunt. Knowledge is power, know others jobs.

4) Strive to know the job two ranks above you. As a PFC know what and how to be an Team Leader. The month before the E-5 Promo Board is not the time to sign up for Correspondence Courses. From weapons employment to Leadership principles. Mission accomplishment, Not Get-R-Dun.

5) Get to know DA-3355 Army Promotion Point Worksheet. This will keep you knowing where you stand.

6) Stay hungry. Seek Knowledge, seek Self Improvement. Embrace the local culture, no mater how long you are going to be there.

7) Save for the future, TSP or other Investments. Plant some walnut trees now and at your 20 year retirement, you will have a forest that you can logout for handsome profit.

Keep you feet and knees together and hold what you you got.
email it you wish, < [login to see] >

Response by SFC David Villanueva made May 7 at 2015 8:21 PM

2015-05-07T20:21:23-04:00

From a former drill sergeant. Either be outstanding, or standing out (of the spot light). There are only 2% that are truly outstanding in all things, like humble intelligent collegiate athletes with some ROTC experience. On the flip side, braggarts, morons, unintelligent (unable to learn quickly), couch potatoes are a drill sergeant's dream. Standing out, is doing your best in all things, a steady and reliable soldier. Be helpful to your peers. Listen to others to size up those that can be helpful versus those that would bring you down. If one of your peers say, "Come on, we won't get caught", realize that if you are worrying about getting "caught" you already know it's wrong. If there are some guys that are bullies, stay away from them as they will bring themselves down. Don't be in their blast radius. Read your soldier's manuals. They give those to you for a reason. DO write and call your family. Stay connected as they are your lifeline to the sanity of the world. And remember, the Army is not the "everyone gets a trophy" club. You earn privileges by success and teamwork. It's older, but truly be all that you can be. You are the Spirit of the bayonet. Embrace the fun. And remember, no matter how hard it is, hot hot, how humid, how smelly, how hungry, how thirsty, YOU are still safe as you are in training. The drill sergeants cannot kill you nor eat you. It's just a game to see if you have the sack to hack it. Man up and enjoy the ride. Last comment. Do NOT whine. Men do not whine. Have fun troop! SFC V.

Response by LTC Anthony Littrell made May 7 at 2015 8:24 PM

2015-05-07T20:24:46-04:00

Dear future soldier, along te ago I was like you about to enter the as a PVt. Along the way I served in Germany, earned a commission, went to medical school, became a paratrooper and served with the Special forces while in combat. I retired after 30 years of continuous serice. You are about to enter the profession of Armed services, only 1 percent ear arm the privledge to serve. I wish you only the Best , Brother inAs.

Response by SGT Kevin Gardner made May 7 at 2015 8:30 PM

2015-05-07T20:30:07-04:00

Coming here and asking questions was a good start, pay attention and learn everything you can, if your not sure about somthing practice untill you have it down to muscle memory.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made May 7 at 2015 8:32 PM

2015-05-07T20:32:40-04:00

As the Army's old motto goes "Be all you can be", meaning learn as much as you can and get as much as you can out of your enlistment.

Basic is a mind game, not a physical one. They know you can handle the physical aspect of it so don't let the mental beat you. With that being said TRAIN HARD NOW so your in the best shape you can before shipping.

Put in for every training/education opportunity you can. Try to get into an MOS that will help you in the private sector.

Make and keep friends as you go.

Response by SGT Greg Gold made May 7 at 2015 8:32 PM

2015-05-07T20:32:44-04:00

I can't believe no one has said this yet, but more PT never hurt anyone. You are going to get run ragged during basic and for at least the first phase of AIT. The better shape you're in when you report, the easier it's going to be on you.

Response by SPC Nathan Freeman made May 7 at 2015 8:54 PM

2015-05-07T20:54:32-04:00

Do pt on your own. Lots and lots of pt. Get on AKO and go to alms and start doing correspondence courses. Learn army history. It might get you a spot in the front of the line at chow. Research Medal of Honor recipients. Learn the army song. If you have a lumpy head, cut your hair before you go so they can see it

Response by SPC Ward Taber made May 7 at 2015 9:05 PM

2015-05-07T21:05:59-04:00

Find your inspiration and stay motivated. You are a valuable piece of this great team. Take advantage of any schooling that you can get into while you are active. It will boost your promotabity and will make you that much further ahead when you ETS. Enjoy your time be proud that you are a US Army Soldier!!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 9:13 PM

2015-05-07T21:13:09-04:00

Well all I can say is you need to get tough inside and out now! Remember never say the word ''CAN'T"!!! Never volunteer for anything unless you are picked by the Drill or Platoon Guide! PT is very important for being an Infantry soldier so run as much as you can along with the push-ups and sit-ups, all the other stuff like the mountain climber and all will come during the first half hour or so before the run. Never borrow anything from anyone! Always say yes or no Drill Sergeant at all times! When you get a weekend off and go downtown stay out of trouble for you do not want to get on the blotter report for you will become very popular in a bad way the next morning and it could cost you your Army career and do not let others influence you no mater what it may be! Remember when you graduate basic training you main goal in life is not only training on how to kill the enemy but also your outlook goal is to reach the grade of Sergeant Major! Always set the example in every thing you say and or do! Remember there will be times when you are very hungry and or wet and tired, always remember it is mind over matter- if you don't mind it won't matter and stay highly motivated and dedicated at all times! Your appearance at the work formation is very important as well, spit shine boots/highly shined and a very good pressed uniform! Personal hygiene is very important on a daily basis so shower and brush your snags everyday! High and tight hair cut or bald is good at all times! They will watch what you eat in the mess hall, stay away from the deserts and just eat the main meal and never go back for seconds! Team work is very important at all times but there is some things that is done on an individual basis as well! Sign up for Airborne School for after basis and then try out for the Ranger Course, for then when you get to the rank of SSG go to the Bradley Master Gunner Course at Harmony Church and Graduate from there and you will be promoted light lightning! Ranger Tab and Master Gunner is the ticket!!! Go out for the EIB when ever it is given for that is very important as an infantryman! Upper body strength is a must for always work out when you get the chance! Along with running! As CPL Reed said do not take anything personal for the Drills are there to convert you from being a civilian to a lean mean fighting killing machine soldier which will remain with you for the rest of your life and that will enable you to make good decisions in life and being a gentleman! In basic the Drills frown upon going on sick call, only go if you are in very bad pain and if you get a P2 Profile or better you are now useless to your platoon as well as to you battalion as a whole then you could be recycled to the next batch of trainees! You will always hear the saying - Hurry Up And Wait, but that is what you want to do is to be early to any and all events or missions you are about to par take in! Do not try to hide from saluting the flag, for it is a honor and a privilege to salute our precious flag for many of us have died in order to keep it flying! Make sure your geg line always match up, for it is your belt on the trousers and your shirt! Speak loud when having to answer something! Do not say you from Texas ok!!LOL.
Good luck and have a very good graduation! Also while on leave, you are always representing the Army in every way so your dress and conduct must be of high standards at all times just like when you are at your company working! Any drugs that is not prescribed by a Army Doctor is not to be taken or smoking weed or anything they do give piss test at random a lot and if you come up hot you could get booted out of the mighty Army on a bad note and then be lucky to flip burgers at McDonalds! Good Luck and hope you make it the whole 20 years and plus some!!!

SFC
U.S. Army Infantry (RET)

Response by MSG Jim Gawne made May 7 at 2015 9:23 PM

2015-05-07T21:23:49-04:00

First, welcome to the family. What you are about to go through will change you physically and mentally. As such, I have two things I would recommend - first, be in the best physical shape that you can be. Running (distance and interval) and strength training (muscular endurance) will serve you well. Secondly, prepare yourself as best you can mentally. There will be days that you will want to quit, and days that you will feel like you can conquer the world. In other words, there will be extremes. Most days will be exhausting, so get as much sleep as you can. It is essential for your mental acuity.

Oh, and one last thing - don't volunteer for anything. (Wise words passed on to me over 40 years ago before I headed off to basic training)

Response by SSG Trevor S. made May 7 at 2015 9:24 PM

2015-05-07T21:24:51-04:00

1. Remember EVERY Soldier and NCO you meet has been where you are. They are your beacon in the fog letting you know that you can make it too.
2. You are not lowly. You are a volunteer serving the greatest nation in the known universe. Be as proud of that fact and your country as you are humble in listening to those with more experience than you.
3. Learn to listen.
4. Execute everything with enthusiasm.

Response by MSG Jim Gawne made May 7 at 2015 9:30 PM

2015-05-07T21:30:54-04:00

Welcome to the family! It has been more than 40 years since I went to basic training, and I can still recall almost all of it. Two things that you can do: first, read as much as you can about the history of the Infantry. Try to understand the relationship between the various combat arms, the Infantry and all of the support soldiers. Secondly, get yourself in the best physical shape that you can. Running and strength training are important and will help you to do your best. More than anything else, though, pay attention and learn as much as you can. Your life, and your buddies' lives, may depend on it.

Enjoy your time!

Response by SGT Jim Russell made May 7 at 2015 9:36 PM

2015-05-07T21:36:43-04:00

Get in the best shape you can, at least enough to pass pt test with 60 in each category when you get to bct. Everything there is as a group so it will be as hard as can be on the weakest without breaking them so being above that makes life easier. Don't assume you know fuck all when you get there. Be like a sponge and absorb all instructions from cadre. You can add and enhance later in your career. But most of all don't ever tell yourself you can't do any challenge given. Self doubt weakens ability worse than anything. And never leave your battle buddy.

Response by AN George Grace III made May 7 at 2015 9:38 PM

2015-05-07T21:38:11-04:00

Prepare your body and mind ahead of time

Response by SSG Mike Angelo made May 7 at 2015 9:45 PM

2015-05-07T21:45:33-04:00

Your whole life is going to change.

Response by SGT Jimmy Carpenter made May 7 at 2015 9:46 PM

2015-05-07T21:46:10-04:00

Best advice for basic training ever:

Keep your mouth shut, do as you're instructed, and never give up.

You'll get smoked for doing things wrong. You'll get smoked for doing things right.

After you've earned your blue cord, you become part of a brotherhood. Being a grunt is a job that anyone can do but most won't do.

Check back in with us after you've got your blue cord. Thanks for your decision to serve our great country!

Response by SSG Ronald Rollins made May 7 at 2015 9:50 PM

2015-05-07T21:50:09-04:00

First of all, Welcome to the best club in the world, the United States Military!! I started in the PA Guard then transferred to the USMC then to the Active Army. I was an instructor at Leonard Wood. My advice is to be yourself. Don't get into any arguments with a drill sergeant or instructor. The "Thats not the way I thought it goes" will work. They have the experience and kknow what they are doing! Pay attention, ask questions if you are not sure or dont know. Don't be afraid to be a leader!! Stand out. Take charge when it is warranted. Don't overstep your authority, as you have none. If there are ones causing trouble or doing something stupid, dime them out. Dont let them drag you and the rest of the good ones down. Basically, do what you are told, learn your MOS, Chain of Command, and do what is right not easy.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 9:51 PM

2015-05-07T21:51:57-04:00

Take all the Army values, Soldier's Creed and warrior ethos seriously, and remember that those who think it's a joke or a cheap words will run afoul of their own cynicism soon enough. Don't be part of that crowd. Make your mission about your fellow service members (past & present), but also be sure to do the personal maintenance to keep yourself mission-ready. Take each day as it comes, as a constant learner who can find something worthwhile in even the most mundane or downright dirty task.

Response by CDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 9:58 PM

2015-05-07T21:58:01-04:00

PVT Private RallyPoint Member, I don't know that I can provide any more good advice than has already been given...your post already seems pretty saturated.

The one thing I will say...and you will probably touch on in basic, but it won't really hit you until you're in the thick of things, but ALWAYS be there for your fellow warrior and NEVER leave anyone behind. Be there for your brothers and sisters, and they'll be there for you.

Good luck...maybe I'll see you in the field one day.

Response by 1SG Scott Rosenberger made May 7 at 2015 10:34 PM

2015-05-07T22:34:15-04:00

Like many have posted, there is no such thing as a lowly Soldier. Do you realize you are now part of a group that is less than 1% in this country? Be proud of being a Private. I too went to Basic and AIT at Benning in 1988. When you first get there the Drill Sergeants are going to break you, and everyone else down, and then build you back up as a team. They will do this by making you do push ups, running, various exercises, and awesome Army training. You need to realize, the DS's are making teams out of people just like you who are southern rednecks, California surfers, Midwest farmers, hillbilly's, Urban kids from NYC, Chicago, and Detroit, and whatever you call people from the rocky mountains. Yet the military will be the best team you've ever been on in your life. But here's the secret for success. Do what you're told, and be on time, and if you're doing what you're told, you will be on time. This advice will take you from E-1 to E-3. E-4 will require a bit of leadership traits, but by that time you will have figured out what you need to do to advance. I wish you well, and I applaud you for asking these questions on this site. Remember, no matter what you think during what seams like miserable times, your leadership want's you to succeed.

Response by SPC Chad Harris made May 7 at 2015 10:36 PM

2015-05-07T22:36:34-04:00

Why Infantry? did you take your ASVAB? IF you didn't you need to take it.. and be Serious about it.. have you already sworn in? at MEPS? Untill you swear in your not locked to a job.. I'd highly suggest that you NOT go as Infantry unless you like living like a wild animal and love camping, Juss my 2c. Also know that BASIC TRAINING isn't life in the Regular Duty army.

Response by MAJ Scott Hamilton made May 7 at 2015 10:38 PM

2015-05-07T22:38:54-04:00

There are a lot of good comments already, so I won't repeat the obviously well stated. I did that OSUT back in 1983. Went through my career and then came full circle and commanded a BCT Company. I can tell you this, people who fail in Basic do so through two causes. The one reason is just a drop and lack of motivation. Some days feel like you just wake up and the day is over. Some days feel like it is never going to end. Just keep going. When the training is over, life takes off at a 100 mph. What causes most people the biggest problem is medical injuries, mostly due to running and marching. Start now in learning how to stretch, take care of your feet and your muscles. Don't sweat so much getting in shape for it, you have 90 days, they will get you where you need to be, if you push yourself to get through it. As an Infantry soldier, you will live or die by the state of your feet, calves and knees. Stretching is one way you can reduce the possibilities of injury. In my BCT cycles, I typically lost 15% of the Company to severe stress fractures and lower extremities injuries because people were unaccustomed to the shock to their system. Google how to stretch to prevent shin splints and google how to prepare for long distance running as a new runner. Also look up how to prepare for hiking and road marching. Those tips will help you out. And now, while you have the time, start doing those exercises a bit before your ship date so the shock to our system will be less. Other than that, stay professional, maintain your integrity, no matter what, and do not expect that all other soldiers are doing so. Most will, but there is always going to be "that guy". Don't be "that guy", and don't hang around with "that guy". Learn your profession well, be dedicated to improving and learning, and you will be OK.

Response by SGT Robert Scott made May 7 at 2015 10:41 PM

2015-05-07T22:41:02-04:00

First off, change your attitude! You are not a "lowly future" soldier.
You have become part of United States military, the best in the world!
Stay positive, follow orders and be ready to learn! The only person stopping YOU from being the best in what YOU do, is YOU!!!
I took Basic Training at Fort Ord many years ago, but believe me the Drill Sergeants now are just as good, professional and ready to teach you the best, as then!
Be ready for some very interesting challenges and when other special training and schools are offered, jump at the opportunities, you will be glad you did.
Since there is no draft, you volunteered for this, so make the best of it and who knows, you might just want to make this your career! Good luck, stay positive! Airborne!

Response by CPL James Dean made May 7 at 2015 10:42 PM

2015-05-07T22:42:14-04:00

Work hard.Study hard.Do not take anything for granted.Remember there is no better sense of pride then wearing that uniform. Take full advantage of every experience coming your way.stay strong and good luck Private.

Response by SGT Cesar Hernandez made May 7 at 2015 10:43 PM

2015-05-07T22:43:19-04:00

Just listen to ur nco dont do anything dumb and never listen to other privates focus on what your about to do from RETIRED SGT HERNANDEZ

Response by SGT John Bassett made May 7 at 2015 10:45 PM

2015-05-07T22:45:27-04:00

The 1Lt is correct, went through Benning in '83 ,Harmony Church, a lot has changed...Do not say "Sir" to a Drill Sergeant and run daily starting yesterday, 40 push'em ups 4 times a day won't hurt either. Remember, the first 4-5 weeks are mostly mental.

Response by SPC William Hinesley made May 7 at 2015 10:48 PM

2015-05-07T22:48:17-04:00

My advice for you as I too went to basic at Benning at echo hill back in 83. Don't take the BS too seriously. I assume you are doing osut. So 13 weeks and then on to your duty station. Once your out of the first 6 weeks then start training for your MOS the Suck will be less. Embrace the physical part of the days and dont let it get you down.So to sum it up, Suck it up and drive on Airborne,

Response by SGT Stephen Boldrey made May 7 at 2015 10:50 PM

2015-05-07T22:50:25-04:00

Just have a good time . Take it one day at a time . It's something you will never forget. And it will follow you through your career. & years after the military . Just remember you will not be right and you can not get it right at first . If you think something your D. I. Said is funny don't laugh. It is all worth it at the end .

Response by SPC Guy Fairbairn made May 7 at 2015 11:13 PM

2015-05-07T23:13:10-04:00

Welcome! Congratulations on your decision and thank you in advance for your service. There is no greater calling than to put on a uniform and put others ahead of yourself. The friends you make will be lifelong! As will the memories. I still keep in touch with my battle buddies and it's been 20 years! There will be some suck I'm not going to lie but you will learn to embrace it and eventually enjoy it. So my tips.. DONT keep your head down! You will not be able to coast through I can promise you that :-). DO push yourself out of your comfort zone! You will be amazed how present the weather is out there :-). Listen to your instructors, even when they are being difficult. YOU WILL GET YELLED AT repeatedly. Don't take it personally, it's all part of the process. It will help your mental toughness improve. And remember that the worst that will happen is you will wind up doing push-ups until you can't anymore then you will roll over and do flutter kicks until you can't do those any more. And you will come out the other side a BAD ASS :-)
Enjoy it my friend and welcome to the brotherhood!

Response by CPL Jesse Cunard made May 7 at 2015 11:28 PM

2015-05-07T23:28:32-04:00

Head up. Stay awake. Follow orders. Have faith. Trust your drill sargent's. If you have to think about it for more than 5 seconds it's probably a bad idea. Finally don't do stupid shit
Foremost welcome to the army.

Response by SPC Bob Tolford made May 8 at 2015 12:07 AM

2015-05-08T00:07:10-04:00

One thing to do before starting Basic, if you are not already...
Get in shape. You'll get whipped into shape in Basic, but if you do some simple workout routines you will get by a little better. I ran a couple miles a day before going into Basic. Also did sit-ups, pushups and lifted some light weights. If you can find some monkey bars to practice on, that was one thing that a lot of guys had a hard time with, particularly if they were of a more normal weight, and especially if they were a bit overweight. I was a skinny guy weighing about 105 pounds at 5'10" tall. All muscle though. I came out of Basic weighing around 115. This was many moons ago, July of 1975 is when I went in, so the training may have some variances from what I experienced.
Just remember too, when you feel like you are getting your butt kicked, there isn't ANYone in your Basic training unit that is not going through the very thing that you are. That knowledge kept me going and I had a relatively easy time of it. Did Basic at Fort Dix, NJ and Field Artillery FDC training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. I was then stationed in the former Panama Canal Zone at Fort Kobbe. Great duty. At the time the Army was in a bit of a slump, I was fortunate to be stationed where I was as the training was hard, when anything broke down we got replacement parts in a hurry. Elsewhere in the Army at the time, vehicles would remain deadlined for long periods of time. The mission of the military in the Canal Zone enjoyed a relatively high priority which helped make things run smoothly overall. I was there pre-Noriega and the times were very enjoyable.

Response by CW4 Scott Frickson made May 8 at 2015 12:21 AM

2015-05-08T00:21:07-04:00

Be humble work hard, Face your Fears, Live Your Dreams! If you run into leaders that are losers and less then what you deserve you work that much harder too,be the leader, that the soldiers deserve behind you!

Response by PFC Rich Burwell made May 8 at 2015 12:30 AM

2015-05-08T00:30:49-04:00

Start doing physical training now(your recruiter can get you started), start studying whatever the current basic training book is, especially the medical stuff(lots to memorize, again see your recruiter) and eat everything they put in front of you, even if you hate it(like spam, i hate spam but i ate it). It wont be easy. They want strong, motivated people. Believe in yourself. Thanks for your service.

Response by 1SG Bob Skudlarek made May 8 at 2015 12:35 AM

2015-05-08T00:35:26-04:00

Just realize you signed a contract and commit to fulfilling said contract. Just be - listen, act, react, and absorb everything. Do not presume to already know - because you don't know, yet. Give your best effort and take pride in every little accomplishment. If you don't know, ask your squad leader first. Always follow chain of command. Your time will pass quickly and you'll be amazed at how much you've learned in such a short time. Be humble, be honest, and enjoy.

Response by SPC Johnny Velazquez, PhD made May 8 at 2015 12:58 AM

2015-05-08T00:58:37-04:00

Honor the uniform, keep your mouth shut, do as you're told, pay attention to orders, details, be respectful, and above all, remember what your purpose is. You are gong to become a soldier. Aspire to be the very best. On a lighter note, be prepare for what awaits you. Ouch! But in the long wrong, it will be worth it. I salute you.

Response by SFC Derahn Thornton made May 8 at 2015 1:23 AM

2015-05-08T01:23:17-04:00

I would say basic training is your indoctrination to the Army. It's alot different from my BCT of 22yrs ago....the whole object of boot camp is to get the couch potato lifestyle out of you! I had a great Army career, it will be what you make of it! EMBRACE THE SUCK, take leadership positions such as squad leader and PG and DRINK WATER. Don't be around troublemakers and those who circumvent rules.

Best advice, when you get to your first duty station after BCT and AIT, don't let that unit be your outlook of the Army if the unit "seems bad" to you! Take re-enlistments a few years at a time and you'll be at 20years real quick! My whole career was a blur...and I'll be retiring next summer! Try to get overseas assignments so you can see the world in your spare time!

Response by PO1 John Miller made May 8 at 2015 1:37 AM

2015-05-08T01:37:39-04:00

Keep your mouth shut, don't volunteer for anything, and do what is asked/told of you without question.

There are times and places for volunteering (such as you volunteering to join the Army) but Basic is NOT one of them.

With that said, good luck and let us know how Basic Training was once you complete it!

Response by SPC Robert Bowen made May 8 at 2015 2:28 AM

2015-05-08T02:28:15-04:00

Like many others have said, you are not just a lowly soldier. You are joining the kings of battle, the front line landlords (because we own that beotch). As far as basic goes, just know this, there is no staying under the radar, drills do have eyes and ears everywhere, basic is 70% physical and 30% mental. I looked at basic as one big camping trip with better toys. Just keep an open mind and a clear head and the experience can be worth it. It is what you make of it.

Response by PV2 Glen Lewis made May 8 at 2015 2:33 AM

2015-05-08T02:33:43-04:00

Trust your DIs they'll make a good soldier out of you but you have to let them. Be proud of yourself and honor the uniform you wear. You're not lowly; you're Army.

Response by SPC Jay Dominy made May 8 at 2015 3:45 AM

2015-05-08T03:45:38-04:00

Yes, in all things in training, never try to apply your own logic. Everything they tell you to do has a reason and a purpose. Dont ask, just do.

Response by PFC Klayton Mayeaux made May 8 at 2015 5:00 AM

2015-05-08T05:00:09-04:00

Major piece of advice: No matter how tough it gets, how many times you fail at something, how many times you fall, let others down, let your DS down, yourself down, etc. DO NOT QUIT! If it seems like it is hopeless, KEEP PUSHING FORWARD! Trust me! Even if you struggle in boot camp, this will set you apart and the DS will work with you to make sure you reach your goals! And in the end, you'll earn so much respect from your peers and youself!

Response by SGT Anthony Dequental made May 8 at 2015 7:34 AM

2015-05-08T07:34:16-04:00

Hunter, first thing. Why did you say a lowly future soldier, you must have confidence in youself you are not lowly but a young man getting his life on track. Second, start working out, run, pushup, pull ups, crunches get in tip top shape that will make it a lot easier for you. Get ready to wakeup early in the morning and know that you will be told what to do, when to do it 24 hrs a day for your whole time there but it will be well worth it in the end when you graduate and say to yourself "I did it". And as everyone else have said, listen don't say much, push yourself and trust your drill instructor and your buddies and you will be alright.

Response by SP5 Billy Morris made May 8 at 2015 7:44 AM

2015-05-08T07:44:58-04:00

I have some simple advice for you that will help you in basic and through out your military career !!! 1st thing to remember when in basic and other training become unknown !!! That means you do exactly as your told when you're told and just kick back and watch everyone else go through what your going through and feed off there energy and mistakes !! Nothing better than a hyped up instructor lol !! You will be surprised! !! It's all a mental fuck for your own good !!! So listen, learn and keep your mouth shut and never volunteer for shit lol !!! As far as war goes ? May god have mercy and you don't have to worry about it ! But if you do ? Then you do as your told and most importantly when over seas ! (KEEP YOUR HEAD LOW AND YOUR RIFLE HIGH !!!! ) I will tell you what my uncle told me !! There's always someone who is more stupid than you are !!!!! So good luck and god bless America !!!!

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 8:30 AM

2015-05-08T08:30:05-04:00

Don't forget to have fun while you're training! Step back and realize that you are being paid to work out, shoot guns, spend time outdoors etc. You're training for a very serious job but that doesn't mean you can't have fun doing it.

Deployments are another subject all together- don't worry about those yet- just focus on becoming the best 11B you can.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made May 8 at 2015 8:30 AM

2015-05-08T08:30:58-04:00

No such thing as a lowly Soldier. You raised your hand, which is more than most citizens do. You are about to undertake the biggest adventure of your life. We are here to support and encourage you along the way.

Response by SGM Wilburn Penick made May 8 at 2015 8:34 AM

2015-05-08T08:34:26-04:00

You are going to get a great experience and join a fraternity of great people. I have read many of the responses and these are great. Here are a few things that you will also want to do. Make yourself and I love me book. Keep copies of all of your certificates, achievements, reenlistment contracts, photos awards in a binder. These will help you later on in your military career. As you leave each post get copies of your medical records. You can tough it through anything. When you are sick get medicine to fix it. When you are hurt see the docs to fix it and get it annotated in your records. When something is really wrong go see the doc and get it annotated in your records. It will make a difference later on in your Army career. You will always be Soldier even after you are out of the service.
Some of your Sergeants will say "suck it up and drive on" there are many times to do this. Occasionally you need to stop and get yourself help. There are many who "drove on" did not do some of the things above and became bitter.

Most importantly enjoy your experience and as the old Army saying goes: "Be All That You Can Be"

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 8:55 AM

2015-05-08T08:55:01-04:00

Basic Training is easy: Do what you're told, do it quickly, and be prepared to do more.

BCT is super easy. Yes, it's physically demanding. Yes, you will get yelled at, but it's just to make you more resilient.

You will be taught how to shoot, how to pack your ruck; etc... the best way to prepare is to get physically ready. Do push-ups, sit-ups, and get used to running for long periods of time.
Do a 1-1-1 assessment, see how you do on a 2-2-2 (which is the Army PT test). There are score charts online (60 points per event will get you a passing score). Think of it like this: the more you sweat now, the less pain you'll be in later.

Drill Sergeants and Platoon Sergeants (you'll have these when you get to your unit) are probably going to yell, mass punish, and make you do a bunch of annoying stuff (extra push ups, police calls, pointless formations; etc.). Don't take it personally, just try to get some motivation out of it. Yelling is their way of expressing themselves, but remember it's their job to help you succeed. (Also, it's against the law for them to hit you...)

Army Life is easy: do what you're told, do it quickly, and be prepared to do more.

Airborne School is easy: do what you're told, do it quickly, and be prepared to do more.

Are you noticing a pattern?

You'll be fine, and remember PT is free.

Response by SGT Kenneth Martin made May 8 at 2015 9:04 AM

2015-05-08T09:04:39-04:00

The best advice is to, do everything that the Drill Sergeants tell you, don't be a smart ass. And volunteer for jobs that they ask the company to do. Remember that it is a mind game from day 1. It is designed to tear you down then build you back up into a model soldier. And most of all if you are religious or not go to Church on Sunday. you will get about 4 hours on Sunday for church and letter writing. then in the afternoon you will have classes.

Response by PFC Kevin Higgins made May 8 at 2015 9:20 AM

2015-05-08T09:20:16-04:00

Enjoy it, You only do it once. Luv the suck!

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 8 at 2015 11:03 AM

2015-05-08T11:03:24-04:00

First, get at parade rest when reading this, even retired, I am still and E-8. (If you do not know what parade rest is, go see your recruiter immediately and make them teach you...immediately...that means now)

Second, just about everyone there is going to be young and inexperienced, and knowing you do not know much is already putting you ahead of the game.

The best advice I can give anyone going to IADT is 'Don't quit.' If you do not quit, you will make it through. It is designed for people physically weaker, with lower test scores to make it through and they do all the time. IF you are the weakest and dumbest person there, then laugh at everyone who quits and realize that you actually were not the weakest or dumbest because you had what it took to simply not quit.

Last, do some push-ups because you didn't go to parade rest after I told...and if you did, which I doubt, you didn't do it fast enough. No, I am not joking, knock them out. Do twenty, since you were asking.

Can't hear you!!!

Response by PFC Steve Waters made May 8 at 2015 11:33 AM

2015-05-08T11:33:28-04:00

give it your best, keep positive at all times. It has been 25 years since I went through basic/ait things have changed but a US ARMY Soldier is and always will be one of the best in the world. Listen to your DS and everyone of rank in your platoon/company/battalion. Try to be a leader that is what the Army wants you to do is shine so shine and try to be the best (don't have to kiss someones ass to shine just do it on your own). If you have time before you leave get into the best shape you can by running, push-ups and sit-ups.Pay attention in class do not fall asleep the classes can be quiet boring for sure. Always respect those of higher rank and know your ranking. Silver and Gold demand the utmost respect so give it to them.. Other than these few tips good luck keep a strong will because they will try to break you as soon as the bus pulls up to the intake and do not look forward to sleeping a lot when you first get there.. Do not take anything of great value because you will have it taken from you as soon as you get to your training company. Find a good pair of running shoes before you go. Good Luck..

Response by SSG Dwight Amey MSA, MSL, BS, AS made May 8 at 2015 11:35 AM

2015-05-08T11:35:59-04:00

PVT Hunter Hoffmann Hitt, God bless you brother. Thanks for volunteering during wartime. You need to understand your life will change for ever. The biggest change you will notice right off is your time belongs to the Army. The Army will tell you when it is time to eat, sleep work, exercise, and when you can go home. This is a lot of control over your life. Anyone who has absolute control over your time has a lot of power over your life. You volunteer, but will be held accountable if you fail to comply with your duties and responsibilities.

My first night of basic training in the Air force in 1990 when I went to sleep I decided I was going home after the weekend. I felt like I was at a summer camp that turned out I hated being there and wanted to go home. I really thought for about 30 seconds I was going home after the weekend. Then the fear hit me I ain't going nowhere but to pt in the morning. They got me for the next 4 years.

When I went to Army Basic four years later I was more prepared. I suggest not being afraid to volunteer. Most say do not volunteer. But believe it or not, when you get out of basic and have that type of attitude can get you some negative attention depending on where you work. Good luck.

Response by SFC Jim Ruether made May 8 at 2015 11:40 AM

2015-05-08T11:40:30-04:00

There is nothing to feel lowly about soldier. If you raised your right hand and swore this oath..............

"I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God." (Title 10, US Code; Act of 5 May 1960 replacing the wording first adopted in 1789, with amendment effective 5 October 1962).

You are an important part of a vast minority of Americans estimated at only 7% of the population who have taken it upon themselves to protect the majority of Americans who have elected not to serve their country in the military.

You will join a group of soldiers, sailors and airmen who have gone before you and have taken that same oath........this sets you way above the other kids you attended high school with in my book.

My advice to you is to listen and listen closely to everything your DI or Instructors tell you in Basic. Do the very best you can in everything you do. If you are going to be at Basic or AIT, you will be there for a pre-determined amount of time. Be the best that you can be. It sounds like an old ARMY advertising cliché and it is, but its true. If you do the best you can in everything they ask you to do, you will turn out to be a fine soldier and will be proud of the man you see in the mirror.... Dig deep and you will surprise yourself at what you can accomplish. Be a leader and ask for every opportunity to lead.... the management skills you learn will be invaluable to you for the rest of your life.

In our world with open borders and the constant threat of Radical Muslims, Foreign Dictators and extremists in other 3rd world countries, your job will be so much more important in protecting not only your friends and family but your country as well. Take every skill they teach you and excel at it. Encourage others around you to be the best that they can be too.

Avoid the one's that think they know it all and listen to your DI. Build your own team, squad or company. Help them to be the best that they can be. Share your talents at map reading, land nav, and other basic soldier skills, seek others who are better at some things than you are and learn from them as you share your knowledge with them.

The last thing you want to do is enjoy your time at Basic Training and eventually AIT. It will be the hardest thing you have every done but one of life's most rewarding accomplishments that you will always remember. You will make friends in Basic as you move through this crucible of training that will last a lifetime and others you will meet along the way during your career if you so choose to stay in. What you will find is a new found confidence in yourself that will be unshakable. Good Luck young man!

Response by SSG Melvin Nulph made May 8 at 2015 11:45 AM

2015-05-08T11:45:23-04:00

Hunter, I've been stationed at Ft Benning, had a lot of Infinity buddies and did 20 years in the military. I'm not at a place right now that I can talk do to a lot of them things you will one day soon call civilians. When I get back to my house or away from them (lmao) ill let you know some of the good, bad, and boring times I had and I like the attitude of not wanting to read any propaganda put out by people that are as fare as we know (fake, never served a day to anyone but them self or fiction writer want-a-be's).

Response by SPC Charles Slininger made May 8 at 2015 12:31 PM

2015-05-08T12:31:51-04:00

The simplest answer to that is this: Mouth Shut & Eyes/Ears Open

Everyone has learned this one way or another. There are always people who talk big or mouth off or just in general never know when to keep their mouth shut and causes them to get in trouble with the DS or other soldiers. Like I said, the lesson gets learned somehow. I did way too many times.

Definitely stay alert to everything that is going on. Everything is going to be thrown at you rapid fire so expect that. Take in what you can when it comes at you and be prepared to learn from the mistakes for what you couldn't understand. You're never going to have a perfect experience and you'll never right each time so you will fail. The key is to not let that failure happen again.

Ultimately with keeping your eyes/ears open is not only when the DS is around, but with your brothers/sisters in arms. Learn from them not only as a soldier but as a person. Each of them have a story and come from a multitude of backgrounds. They all have a reason as to why they joined and what drives them. Listen to them. Watch out for them as they will watch out for you.

Be smart and be safe. You'll be a soldier soon. Take pride in that when the day comes that you can pin that "rainbow ribbon" on your Class A's.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 8 at 2015 12:48 PM

2015-05-08T12:48:31-04:00

Don't think of yourself as a lowly soldier. You are important to the army as a soldier and future leader. Remember this and keep your head up high during training, and do your best.

Response by SGT Jesse Stephenson made May 8 at 2015 1:14 PM

2015-05-08T13:14:11-04:00

PT, PT, Don't fall into the usual slump of drinking your nights and weekends away find other ways to spend your off time that are more self building, PT on your own time. Pay attention to all of your leaders and more experienced pears, they have a lot of experience to pass down to you. PT some more, never turn down the opportunity to go to school. When in charge be in charge!!!...........oh yea do more PT.

Response by SPC Jason Ballard made May 8 at 2015 1:19 PM

2015-05-08T13:19:18-04:00

The best thing I can tell you is to stay out of trouble. You'll probably never see the people you're with again after you graduate. Just take it one day at a time and remember that it's nothing personal. Avoid officers at all costs and remember to salute when approached by one

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 1:25 PM

2015-05-08T13:25:26-04:00

First off, there's nothing "lowly" about a recruit. We all started in exactly the same spot as you are in now. It requires some degree of testicular fortitude to make the commitment and sign the dotted line.

My advice for basic training is as follows:
a. pay attention
b. think teamwork- what can I do to help my teammates succeed?
c. listen first, seek to understand the meaning, don't say anything unless asked
d. it's a game, designed to stress your mind/body- it's not personal
e. enjoy it- you only go through it once

Best of luck, but luck really shouldn't play much of a part if you really want to succeed. Take the initiative and own your experience.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made May 8 at 2015 1:32 PM

2015-05-08T13:32:55-04:00

Congratulations first of all on your journey into the US Army! Welcome to the family! Here is a piece of advance that my father (Veteran, PFC Donald F. Burroughs, Purple Heart recipient from the Korean War) gave me before I left for basic training. He said, "Son you haven't listened to me for 17 years, so listen to me now. Keep your mouth shut and look straight ahead. Don't eyeball the Drill Instructor and you will do good the first couple of days! Also, don't say yes sir if you are approached by a soldier with stripes and rocker. Say, yes Drill Sergeant!"

I listened and it saved me from getting thrown off the cattle truck and I didn't get dropped for push-ups in the first 48 hours. I pass along that same advise! Good luck, stay focused, and listen!

Response by SPC Jeremy Thomas made May 8 at 2015 2:09 PM

2015-05-08T14:09:41-04:00

Push harder then the guys around you, keep your sights up, don't overthink things, remember that though it will be painful at first it'll seem like the blink of an eye when it's done, and always remember to be proud of what you're doing!

Response by PFC Cody Mayer made May 8 at 2015 2:19 PM

2015-05-08T14:19:59-04:00

There is a lot of great advice for you to follow in this thread, always remember that your family at home loves you, there will be a time during basic when you will ask yourself 'why am I here? why did I do this? will I make it out of here?' the answer to those questions will be answered by yourself in time. it is an honor to graduate basic training, and after it is all over, you WILL be a different individual, you will also think to yourself ' I would do basic again in a heart beat'. Also remember to drink lots of water, buy yourself a big bottle of motrin. take some before a PT test, and make sure to take extra socks on your ruck march. and lastly Thank You for writing that blank check!

Response by SPC Josh Adams made May 8 at 2015 3:04 PM

2015-05-08T15:04:03-04:00

Right time, right place, proper uniform. Stay under the radar in basic. follow orders and make sure you push yourself 100%. Basic training isn't difficult as long as you do the right thing. I spent 6 years in and loved every minute of it. It isn't hard to progress and its a great opportunity for you and your future family. I'm out now and utilizing my GI benefits to attend college. I hope this helps. As SSG Lanning said, don't second guess your decision and don't down yourself. Good Luck and stay strong.

SPC. Joshua Adams

Response by PFC Tristram Vaughan made May 8 at 2015 3:47 PM

2015-05-08T15:47:23-04:00

First of all, thank you for choosing to serve. Second, the best thing you can take to basic training is a positive attitude. A positive attitude will take you farther & keep you motivated. Remember, basic training is as much mental training as physical. Understand that the drills are there to help you. Best of luck, thank you again.

Response by SFC Alan King made May 8 at 2015 3:49 PM

2015-05-08T15:49:57-04:00

Rule #1 Don't piss off your Drills. Rule#2 Don't forget rule #1. Do what you are told, when you told. How you are told. Be in the proper place at the proper time with the proper uniform. Prepare the nigh before for tomorrow's training. Start running now. Do pushups and setups. Sweating now will make it easier. For you are entering a change in lifestyle. Learn how to do your own laundry. Good luck earning the Blue Cord.

Response by CH (MAJ) Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 4:03 PM

2015-05-08T16:03:24-04:00

There is no "lowly" soldier. You answered the call of duty, embrace it. Commit to the Ethos and serve with pride and integrity. Not every day will be the one you dreamed of but remember why you and those before you answered the call and were willing to give their lives for it.

Response by LTC Mark Beattie made May 8 at 2015 4:09 PM

2015-05-08T16:09:20-04:00

PVT Hitt - I went through basic training in 1975 so I'm not certain my experience then is relevant now. Regardless, I'll provide you my perspective. First of all, DON'T consider yourself a "lowly" future soldier. There are no lowly soldiers, just soldiers. Admittedly, some soldiers are better than others, but unless one shames themselves by committing an immoral, illegal, or unethical act, you are soldier and be proud of it.....only a very small percentage of Americans can claim to have met the test. I spent over 28 years on active duty and underwent numerous rigorous schools requiring a lot of skill and preparation, but in hindsight basic and AIT were not among them. The reason is because then I wasn't expected to know anything, and the drill sergeants taught me everything I needed to know to be successful in both basic and AIT. What I believe is important to every man or woman who go through basic and AIT is to be mentally and physically prepared. I had absolutely not knowledge of the Army and was immediately shocked at how I was suddenly treated and talked to. You must be mentally prepared to go from being someone in high school, college, or simply your neighborhood, to just one of many, many young men or women trying to make it through the mental and physical stresses of the training. And while you might be referred to as "lowly," your challenge is to always carry yourself with pride and honor, while being absolutely respectful to your drill sergeants. Inquire into the physical standards of basic training and use that as a guide. You better be proficient at the Army Physical Fitness Test before beginning training. In 1975 we marched everywhere we went, eventually capping off our training with a 25 mile road march. Thus, it might be helpful to incorporate ruck marching into your preparation, as well as learning how to take care of your feet, to include how to care for blisters. Since I'm not familiar with today's basic training standards, that's all I have to tell you. Do some research, get yourself physically prepared for what you'll face, and just as important, be prepared for the mental stress, and have the right attitude, including there is nothing the drill sergeants can present you with that you can't achieve!! Good luck!! Mark Beattie

Response by MAJ Terry Stanley made May 8 at 2015 4:14 PM

2015-05-08T16:14:06-04:00

Don't take the DI induced stress personal. There are many reasons that people join the military but when you are training or fighting it is your job. The NCO's and Officers appointed over you are the bosses. I did well in the military when I figured out what the expectations were and strived to meet them. The number one goal is to do your best. Don't settle for 70%. If you strive to do your best, it will show in the soldier you become. When the instructor teaches you to shine your shoes, make them glow. If he says eyes front, pick a point and look there. If you get yelled at, it's not personal and at the end of the day everyone wants you to be successful.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 4:42 PM

2015-05-08T16:42:37-04:00

Wanted to echo the thanks for your decision to serve. Your humility and willingness to seek out advice already have you on a great path.

Just know that you will screw up, you will get yelled at, that's how it is designed to prepare you for future training. Best wishes!

Response by SGT Reed Baker made May 8 at 2015 4:50 PM

2015-05-08T16:50:49-04:00

Use common sense and pay attention to details. When I decided to go SF after desert storm I needed an infantry mos and that's where I did my second basic training. Give it your all and don't act like a know it all. Represent us well

Response by CH (MAJ) Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 4:55 PM

2015-05-08T16:55:15-04:00

1) you can't afford that car
2) You don't need that tattoo.
3) that stripper DOES NOT LOVE you.

I was once a Chaplain for a basic training unit. When you arrive at your first duty station, you'll have a bank account full of cash. That does not mean you can afford a Mustang 5.0. It does not mean that you need that ink (I have ink, mine is meaningful) AND most importantly, sexual predators will target you for income, childcare, and medical insurance for kids that are not your own.

Response by SPC Julio Molina made May 8 at 2015 5:20 PM

2015-05-08T17:20:15-04:00

The Lt. Makes a great point, especially #3. Stay hungry, and don't ever feel down.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 6:06 PM

2015-05-08T18:06:27-04:00

Best advice I can give you in addition to what others have stated - Be physically fit before you leave for training. Look up the Army PT standards and do your best to be capable of meeting them before training starts. This is probably the hardest part of basic for most people and being prepared for it in advance will make things MUCH easier for you.

Oh, and if "Sir/Ma'am" is not already part of your vocabulary, start practicing now.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 6:06 PM

2015-05-08T18:06:57-04:00

First of all congrats on your decision to join. Trust your Drill Sergeant !! They know what they are doing. Do what they tell you to do, how they tell you to do it and when they tell you to do it. It is really that simple. Accept all challenges with enthusiasm and do the best you can. If you make a mistake OWN it and learn from it. Everyone was a new recruit at one time and had the same feelings you do but believe me its all worth it.

Response by 1SG Kenneth Talkington Sr made May 8 at 2015 6:48 PM

2015-05-08T18:48:53-04:00

As I read through the comments posted to your question I was awed by the amount of knowledge and expertise that has been written so far on this subject. I can only add a few things that came to mind as I was reading through the postings. They are: Train your mind and your body to succeed. Never quit regardless of how hard it gets. Give up your prejudices and biases. Especially the ones pertaining to race and religion. You will find that when you are between a rock and a hard spot you will not care what color or of what religion the man who has your back is or has. It is best to get this biases out of your system early. Seek responsibility and leadership. Help those who are slow to learn but are trying. Remember that a unit is only as good as its weakest link. If you make a mistake learn from it. Always train and retrain. Stay away from the barracks lawyers and trouble makers. If you have a question or don't understand something ask. There is no such thing as a dumb question. If you are to be deployed overseas learn as much about the country you are going to as you can. Try to learn some of the language. Remember that as a soldier overseas you are a reflection of you country. Always lead by example.

Response by SGT Brian Gibbs made May 8 at 2015 7:32 PM

2015-05-08T19:32:41-04:00

When I joined in 2000 my dad, a 24 year Marine, told me two things

1. Listen to everything and never anticipate
2. What you learn here will forever be who you are. Its a clean slate and a beginning of the rest of your life.

I learned to learn fast, think quick on my feet, and remember that pain only last as long as you allow it too.
Looking back now, basic was the easiest of my career, but in the moment everything seems hard. My father wanted to teach me everything he knew so I could be prepared, but I refused and said I wanted to learn it for myself. That was a good idea as I saw many new recruits belittled and yelled at for thinking they knew everything. I learned the Army way, not the Marine way, nothing wrong with the Marine way, just I wanted to learn and not expect anything to get the full experience.

My advice....Be who you are and stand up for what you believe. If you feel your a leader, then lead, if you feel your not, then don't try to...Give it your all and in the end you'll look back and be happy with your choices.

Response by SGT Randall Russell made May 8 at 2015 8:27 PM

2015-05-08T20:27:17-04:00

welcome to the army.we don't have the same name but we are all brothers. you will make the best friends of your life in the army.

Response by SGT Rick Ash made May 8 at 2015 9:19 PM

2015-05-08T21:19:18-04:00

Hunter Hoffman Hitt,

Welcome to the best brotherhood that I know of and I spent 35 years traveling the world and speaking to many, many types of soldiers. I see so much great advice here, you already have 380 comments. You can likely learn something good in 99% of those.

Start NOW doing all of the push ups and sit ups you can do. And go to the local playground that has "monkey bars" and practice every day until the blisters break, bleed and scab over. I still have scars on my palms directly below every finger on both hands.

Yes, buy a pair of Army boots now and run in them every day. Get started on the callouses you will soon develop big time.

Don't EVER call a DS "Sir". That DS will chew your ass for as long as he can. He will likely tell you "He works for a living".

Do everything possible now or as soon as possible to be signed up for Airborne, Ranger and Special Forces. You won't even recognize the "old you" when you complete those, same for BCT.

Thank you for volunteering to serve and keep us posted here on Rally Point on your progress. Ask a Rally Point Admin now how to "VERIFY" since you don't yet have a DD214 Form.

You are already feeling the brotherhood. If that goes away then YOU screwed up.

If you can access the post Dry Cleaners do it and get your uniforms lightly starched. You will stand out in a GOOD way, even if some DS gives you a little grief. I doubt that.

Make us proud and, be ARMY STRONG.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2015 11:48 PM

2015-05-08T23:48:24-04:00

1) Memorize your reporting statement

2) Have some confidence: Own what you Know and declare that you do not know what you Don't Know. Straightforwardness is respected.

3) Jump in to help your Platoon Mates however you can: as the song says,

"Lean on me
When you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you to, carry on
For, it won't be long
'till I'm gonna need
somebody to lean on."

Best of luck to you, and remember to thank your Drill Sergeants when they finish making you into a brand new you.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2015 12:26 AM

2015-05-09T00:26:48-04:00

Listen to directions. Do what your told. Support your fellow trainees. Good luck.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2015 12:27 AM

2015-05-09T00:27:09-04:00

Listen to what you're told. Follow directions. Look out for your fellow trainees.

Response by SPC Autumn Patterson made May 9 at 2015 1:36 AM

2015-05-09T01:36:28-04:00

90% is mental, 10% physical. If you don't think you can do the task at hand, do it anyway. You'll surprise yourself.

Response by CCMSgt Michael Sullivan Ph.D made May 9 at 2015 5:40 AM

2015-05-09T05:40:30-04:00

Watch the movie Stripes

Response by SGT Jesse Luebke made May 9 at 2015 6:55 AM

2015-05-09T06:55:14-04:00

A retired MSG told me two things. #1. Keep your head up and your mouth shut, and do what the Brown Round tells you to do. #2. When you get to your duty station make 3 friends. A cook, they feed you. A supply guy, they get you stuff. And a medic, they fix you up. And because I'm a POG, I realized a 4th. A grunt, cuz when it hits the fan, there is nobody better to have on your side.

Response by SPC William Taylor made May 9 at 2015 10:57 AM

2015-05-09T10:57:09-04:00

Well you definitely be shocked in the beginning. But after all your training when you get to your first duty station it will be well worth it. Just follow all orders and keep your head up.

Response by SPC Cedar Bristol made May 9 at 2015 12:53 PM

2015-05-09T12:53:22-04:00

We rarely lose lives in basic training, very rarely. Thats' a thing I wish I had kept closer to the top of my mind when I was at Benning. I had a very easy life prior to then with not much experience of real hard physical labor, so reminding myself often of just how unlikely this training is to kill me would have made the whole thing more productive

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2015 1:04 PM

2015-05-09T13:04:02-04:00

I am currently a Drill Sergeant at Ft Benning. If you want advice then too easy.
1. Leave home prepared and have your family prepared. Financially, emotionally, ect.
2. Realize that everything is a test and you are always being watched... ALWAYS!
3. Volunteer all the time eventually we will tell you to go away.
4. Prepare yourself physically now and you will be better off later.
5. Know the standards of the army physical fitness test, the soldiers creed and the infantryman's creed.
6. Be everyone's battle buddy but not everyone's friend.
7. Never lie to your DS.
8. If we ask you a question 9 out 10 times we already know the answer.
9. Don't get complacent, you will get a dose of reality real fast.
10. If you have a legit problem your DS will take care of you don't be afraid to ask. If its not legit, you will know.
Good luck and success.

Response by SSG Justin McCarrell made May 9 at 2015 2:24 PM

2015-05-09T14:24:59-04:00

There is no such animal as a "lowly" soldier. We all have to earn our stripes the same way you are going to earn yours. The best advice I ever got when I started out as a young Private came from my first section chief. He told me in my initial counseling, "Do what you are told, Do what you are told, and Do what you are told". You are on the path of being an infantryman so I know you will run into the hard ass NCO. Never take anything he says personally. That man is only looking to build you into a well-oiled fighting machine. I am a retired Artilleryman so I know from experience what combat arms leaders are like. Basic training will be one big blur being you will be so tired from the early mornings and late nights. Expect to exercise like you've never exercised before. When you are done with your training you will be a different man. You will carry with you a sense of pride that will not compare to any other time in your life. When you get to your first duty station pay attention to what your leaders are telling you and pay attention to your peers. Some of them will try to set you up for failure, don't let them. If you are to be successful then you need to listen to your leadership, mainly your squad leader. Always ask questions, always strive to learn everything you can about your job, and stay out of trouble. Don't paint a target on your back.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 9 at 2015 2:30 PM

2015-05-09T14:30:25-04:00

This might not be the right answer, but when I was in Basic, when the DS told us to do something, I just smiled and did it. No DS picked on me, however, it might backfire if you have a DS that wants to "break you".

Response by SGT Richard Scott Werner made May 9 at 2015 4:18 PM

2015-05-09T16:18:27-04:00

Basic is easy! it is a challenge of Mental and Physical toughness. Keep your head held high if when you are exhausted, follow the orders given to you by your Drill Sergeants Senior Drills and officers. Clean cut professional is the order of the business every morning, the rest of the day is listening and learning. Mental and physical toughness is what you will need all day everyday. Basic seems like it takes forever but once it is over it is over, remember this " THEY CAN'T KILL YOU OR EAT YOU" everything else is gravy when you see it like that. Take advantage of everything the military offers you while in the military. Go to school in your off time, take advantage of every school they want to send you to. If stationed overseas learn the language of the host country. Be proud that you have joined the elite of the United States of America, less than 2% of your generation will serve in the Armed Forces and there is nothing lowly about that! You will be told to sit and wait, these rules those rules and as a young soldier they may seem childish or that they are outdated. Listen and learn is the best action. Be a leader not a follower, do what your gut tells you to do. Use tact and be professional but always tell the truth. These things will take you further than you have ever thought you could go.

Best wishes and enjoy the journey. Welcome to the brotherhood!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2015 4:41 PM

2015-05-09T16:41:40-04:00

Check your ego at the door... DS's looking for mentally tough and morally straight soldiers, and do their best to weed out argumentative, self-serving attitudes. Blue Falcons (Buddy Fu@k&rs) still make it thru basic training, but have a hard career if they don't shape it up. You will be able to tell the difference in attitude between a soldier and a Blue Falcon, so will everybody else. Like everybody else said, do what you're told to do, ask questions when the mission is done. The best way to become an outstanding leader is to look after fellow soldiers and civilians, put others first, never your individual self. When that little voice inside says 'man this is tough, can I actually do this?' Find another soldier to motivate; the act of motivating others helps you put aside your own pain and that ability to put yourself aside makes more room for doing what is right. Your future leaders can teach you the technical aspects of your job, but it's much harder to teach attitude and ethos to people when the foundations aren't inside them. Based on your display of humbleness and humility when asking for advice here, I would have you on my team in a heartbeat because I could trust that you're teachable. I have no doubt that you have the attitude of success. Keep asking for advice, and teach junior soldiers what you already know, and you WILL go far. Best of luck, God speed. You've already made us proud.

Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made May 9 at 2015 5:04 PM

2015-05-09T17:04:27-04:00

"Lowly"? No such service member exists! ALL members who serve with honor are important and have their role to play. Someone has to make all the hairbrained ideas the SNCO's and Officers come up with work somehow!

Best advice I could give for both your military and civilian life/career is this: Treat everyone you encounter with respect and dignity. You may one day become the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs or even SecDef. Never forget you were once that newest soldier/sailor/airman/marine.

Try to learn all you can about everything moving around you. Just because you might be a admin troop doesn't mean you shouldn't bother with learning how to change the oil in the HMMWV (for example). The more skills you can gather, the more valuable you become.

Along those lines, strive to further your civilian education but never forget you are a Soldier first. No one, and I mean NO ONE likes to pick up the extra slack because some jackwagon skips out on his/her duties because they overloaded on college classes.

Lastly (and probably the most important) is to always put forth your best effort regardless of the task at hand. I had Airmen working for me who weren't the greatest at a task but they poured 100% of their heart and soul into getting the job done. I had more respect and appreciated their efforts much more than I did the troop who just breezed through and half-assed everything.

Best of luck to you. Keep the positive attitude you've shown here and you should have a successful and rewarding career.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2015 6:05 PM

2015-05-09T18:05:46-04:00

Search yourself as to why "I" want to join?! Why do I want to serve my country?! Can't be just about college money, a job, or a bonus! U join to make a difference, to stand up for what is right! To soldier!!!! I new I was going to be in the Army since I was 7 years old! Been serving for 21 years! I do it because I am a patriot! I love the red, white, and blue! I serve for those who have stood beside me in the snow and rain in the Baltic, the snow, rain, and sand of OEF, and the 130 degree sand in OIF! I serve because it has been my calling!!!!!!

Response by SPC Valerie Snyder made May 9 at 2015 6:08 PM

2015-05-09T18:08:17-04:00

You will be scared, You will be homesick, you will grow up, and you will learn alot. You will make mistakes but as long as you learn from them thats the important thing. The experience is different for everyone. For me it was all of the things I said. dont keep your head down, Stand out, push yourself everytime you want to give up or it is too hard. Most importantly try to have fun there is no other place on the planet where you are going to do the stuff you get to do in Basic. Its a life changing experience so leave all the expectations at home and take it one day at a time.

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made May 9 at 2015 7:07 PM

2015-05-09T19:07:41-04:00

"Lowly" is not in our dictionary, when you join you're that 1% brotherhood. But from experience, I'll say 2 thing. Physicial and Mentally Fit.

But the rest is...
Practice waking up 0400.
Practice Push up, Sit up and Running(Look up Army Fitness test Requirement).
Learn Ranks Structure.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2015 7:17 PM

2015-05-09T19:17:52-04:00

Move quickly and with a purpose. The guys that hesitate pay for it. This translates to all aspects of your job later on, from combat to garrison. Your leadership will notice.
You will learn much more by taking initiative and leading the group rather than following it.
Discipline, discipline discipline. Have some. Don't talk unless you have something to say. Don't just talk to hear your own voice.
Remember that your civilian accomplishments don't have anything to do with the army, and no one actually needs to hear about them. Be the best you can be. The best things you did as a civilian aren't going to help you here.
It's too easy to do the right thing. Just do it. It doesn't matter if that's the cool or popular thing. Integrity is the most important thing to have.
Buy extra socks. Don't wear underwear until it gets colder. Hydrate every night. Hydration starts 2-3 days in advance, not right before or during activity. Drink water even when you don't think you need it.
STAY AWAKE. You will pay dearly if caught sleeping or dozing off when you're supposed to be paying attention. DO NOT fall asleep on any type of guard duty or on security. Doing those types of things when you get into the big army will have grave consequences.
Above all, just don't quit. It's not hard. Clearly you want to take some kind of initiative, or you wouldn't have asked for help. Keep doing that. You will never get in trouble for asking for help.

Response by SSgt Chris Lambert made May 9 at 2015 7:20 PM

2015-05-09T19:20:10-04:00

Go to college either before, during or after.

Response by SPC Daniel Edwards made May 9 at 2015 10:57 PM

2015-05-09T22:57:10-04:00

Get ready for a culture shock. You will be yelled for every little thing - don't take it personally. The drill sergeant is trying to remove the civilian out of you and build up the soldier. There will be the Know-It-Alls, the PT-Studs, Ass-Clowns, and Show-Offs; just be true to yourself and you will make it through. Life will suck royally. It isn't supposed to be a walk in the park. If it was, anyone could walk off the streets and do this. But at the same time, it is only 9 weeks. You're getting an incredible amount of training that not everyone gets to have, pretty much free room and board, your meals made for you, free benefits, and get paid on top of it all. Always remember that it could be worse. And most of all, if you look around and see someone struggling, help that person out. Even if it is the worse soldier in the platoon, help that person out. You would be surprised how helping someone out will go a long way even if it is just one little thing.

Response by PFC Robert Morris made May 10 at 2015 12:12 AM

2015-05-10T00:12:32-04:00

they may have changed basic training a little bit since I was in,but hopefully you still applies. my favorite piece of advice is, don't be the FIRST one to cry, note I did not say don't cry,. because of the Drill Sergeants are doing their job, you WILL cry. Lol just don't be the first guy

Response by CPT Bruce Lantz made May 10 at 2015 12:33 AM

2015-05-10T00:33:59-04:00

I had a retired Col tell me how to get by. He said keep your boots shined, your hair cut and your mouth shut. That advice served me well. Give it your best shot and go for the gusto
Retired Army SFC/Cpt

Response by COL Charles Williams made May 10 at 2015 1:22 AM

2015-05-10T01:22:10-04:00

I know this is my second post here PVT Private RallyPoint Member , but I wanted to add.... Never consider yourself a lowly Soldier. Soldiers, are the most important thing in our Army.

Response by SPC Peter Nikolauson made May 10 at 2015 3:38 AM

2015-05-10T03:38:10-04:00

Put in your best efforts, but be smart about how you push your self physically. Motivated effort is placed higher than making bad decisions that will affect you in the future. In my case messed my shoulder up during an exercise that should have not attempted. Then ignored the issue thinking it was just me and ended up with a permanent injury. I will suggest even though it is highly discouraged for some reason. That is to tend to any injuries that may happen especially ones that can lead to permanent issues. Other than that listen, learn, and keep your battle buddies inline. Any mistake they make is your mistake as well. I ran into far to many soldiers who failed at even known the Army values (LOYALTY), the Soldiers Creed, and respecting the rules and ranks. Have some cash in the bank as you will go to the shop a few times and have to buy items and also the starting gear during the inception before basic training.

Response by CSM Christopher St. Cyr made May 10 at 2015 11:16 AM

2015-05-10T11:16:37-04:00

There is a difference between lowly and humble. Less than 1% of Americans make the choice to join the military so that make you elite, not lowly. Humility however is helpful because our role is always subservient to civilian authority. The problem with privates is how many people forget they are the future leaders of the Army. Several years ago as a senior section chief I had the honor of representing my battery at a battle hand off to receive several new soldiers. Of the four I picked up that day, three remain in active service and currently are leading troops overseas, two as section chiefs themselves, and one as artillery gunner.

There are plenty of good responses about preparing for basic. Be the best Soldier you can be everyday. Be better today than you were yesterday. Have fun with it; trust me when I tell you in 30 years it will all be funny.

Response by SGT Michael Ryan made May 10 at 2015 12:15 PM

2015-05-10T12:15:06-04:00

It's quite simple. Do what you're told, when you're told and how you're told. And keep a positive mental attitude. Remember it's training and a gut check.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2015 2:06 PM

2015-05-10T14:06:27-04:00

Basic and AIT/ Drill Sergeants are doing their job, so keep your head up and mouth shut. They're people just like us. They do what they do to prepare you for what you gotta do. Military in general: Pay attention. Keep a positive attitutude. If you're dealing with it, so are others. Find someone you can vent to. It helps. I had 3 females and 2 males in basic that I went to for everything. (Don't talk to the opposite sex alone). Don't listen to rumors and don't start any. You'll be fine! Just do your best!!

Response by CPL Donald Speth made May 10 at 2015 2:14 PM

2015-05-10T14:14:25-04:00

what u put into the military u will get out. in other words u go in expecting to learn all u can and they will teach u all that they can for your success, if u go in expecting them to do it for you, then you will not go very far.

Response by CPL Donald Speth made May 10 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-05-10T14:18:28-04:00

what u put into the military u will get more than u expected, but if u don't then u won't. in other words if u go in expecting and willing to learn, then they will teach u how to succeed, but if u don't then u will fall short of your goal.

Response by CW5 Audrey Warren made May 10 at 2015 8:28 PM

2015-05-10T20:28:00-04:00

Learn the rank structure from E1 to General till you can say it in your sleep. Practice and workout for physical fitness more than you ever have before working up to a 70 lb backpack with boots running a minimum of 4 weeks before you go. Read all the information available on the website for Ft Benning and follow it to the letter. If you are going from a different climate, be prepared to do less physically and mentally. Do not bring contraband or extraneous items not on the list you are given to bring. Make sure you have access to funds through a checking or savings account. Learn to stand at attention, staring straight ahead and not making any faces or movements when being yelled at. Learn to salute properly - your local units can help you there or a Veteran in the area if no active or reserve around. Learn to yell Yes Drill SGT at the top of your lungs - loudly in other words. Learn about the Army as much as possible to include who is who right now to include Presidents and their cabinet members. Run, run, run a bit more each week than the week before until you can exceed the time limit for your age group to meet Army Standards, not just basic standards. Do push ups, sit ups and pull ups increasing them weekly until you can exceed the Army Standards, not just basic standards. In other words, build up your strength, endurance, mental capacity and body. Learn to live with and believe in honesty, integrity, loyalty, self-less service, courage, etc. Make sure you believe in and exhibit those. Go to a unit nearby, whether reserve or active, and ask to speak to the 1SG for some guidance and speak to the new troops who have recently completed their basic and AITs. Take their guidance to heart and do the best you can. Follow orders immediately, do not hesitate, do not say Uh, Oh or Well. Say Yes Drill SGT, No Drill SGT until it is automatically ingrained in you. Learn to keep your area clean at all times. Have someone show you how to roll your towels, t-shirts, etc. to fit in your locker and be neat for inspections. Learn how to make your bed so a quarter bounces off the cover. Learn how to do more with less sleep and more physical and emotional challenges presented to you. If you don't know the answer to something say so, but also state, I will get back to you with the answer. Find the answer and get back to them with it. Be honest above all else, a team player and help to make a cohesive unit with your fellow Soldiers.

Response by SFC Scott Parkhurst made May 11 at 2015 12:38 AM

2015-05-11T00:38:53-04:00

Hey there....Glad that you care enough to at least do some homework and are asking questions. First of all you have to remember that the DS's are there to save your life. And if you can remember that you'll be just fine. What I mean by this is that everything they do is for a reason. All the "yelling" and what people think is game playing is for a reason. It's to build you up not down (in some ways it is, they are trying to make "us" the same and not individuals). We are a team...You'll have one DS tell the platoon to go back up stairs and grab some of your gear and you'll come back into formation just to have yet another DS yell at all of you and ask why the hell you have that gear! Just take it in and realize it's just a game and all it does is makes you stronger (by having to run and go up stairs!) and it's a team builder cause ALL of you are going "what the hell?!" It's a bond thing...trust me on this....The first week your all going what the hell did we get ourselves into and your kind of making friends, then half way through you are getting into each others space and on each others nerves and you'll will find out who are the weak ones...BUT that's when you must shine and help them and (make sure first that they want to help themselves as well....). Then towards the end you all sort to get it and realize that it's TEAM work and you all need to work together to survive and please the DS's. This is what they are looking for. They also don't like a guy (Soldier) who is self-center and only looking after themselves. That means you'll do it out in the field in war! Just do your best in every task including the APFT (PT) and get along well with everyone! Remember your 3 general rules and you'll do just fine. Good luck and I know you'll be OK cause you came here asking questions....and that's a good start!

Response by SGT Martin Janca made May 11 at 2015 9:54 AM

2015-05-11T09:54:56-04:00

Don't get married, do your 20 years then get the F*** out!

Response by PVT Joel Harvey made May 11 at 2015 10:09 AM

2015-05-11T10:09:50-04:00

1.Avoid attracting attention to yourself, maintaining proper posture and looking straight ahead while marching in formation and otherwise. 2.Attention to detail is key, keep inventory and avoid "contraband". 3.Before the exercise known as "Night Fire", where you crawl on sand under barbed wire at night while blanks and tracers are fired well overhead - be sure to bring your ballistic glasses; Few things blow worse than getting sand kicked in your eyes. 4.You will briefly be exposed to CS gas during the gas chamber exercise and possibly elsewhere -- Take a deep breath before removing your mask in the chamber and reciting the Creed, the first inhale is not pleasant and screaming will only increase rate of inhalation.

Response by SGT John Condon made May 12 at 2015 9:02 PM

2015-05-12T21:02:40-04:00

Everyone is giving great advice. I will second all of the responses that say to listen, learn, and lead. Do not get involved with people who mess around and sham. Remember the motto- I will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor will I tolerate those who do. You can never be fully prepared for basic training. But do get in shape. Run miles, lift some weights (if you can), practice push-ups (you will do A LOT of them), and just get yourself ready physically and mentally. No matter how much you do beforehand, it won't be enough. But every little bit helps. Basic training will challenge you in ways you will not believe. It is not a lie that you will do more before 9 o'clock than most people do all day. But most of all, enjoy yourself. It will be hard, challenging, and exhausting at times, but when you get through it you will know you have accomplished more than the other 99% of the population that never served and whose freedoms you must defend ever will do. You are joining a select group of men and women who put their freedoms on hold to defend the freedoms of others. And most of all, get the term "lowly" out of your vocabulary when you speak about yourself. You have more integrity and fortitude than most people have by just joining up and agreeing to serve, The only lowly people that are out there are those who refuse to serve and criticize the actions and responsibilities of those that do.

Response by SGT Justin Lamb made May 12 at 2015 11:01 PM

2015-05-12T23:01:05-04:00

Mind over matter if you don't mind it don't matter. Don't try to be the cool guy be there to learn how to soldier and take care of each other.

Enjoy the training while your there

Response by CPL Nanette Carvalho made May 13 at 2015 10:38 AM

2015-05-13T10:38:34-04:00

Be aware the goal in basic training is to break down the individual then build a soldier. There is a purpose to everything you will be doing, even if it is just standing at parade rest in the chow line. You will be learning to control your emotions and gain discipline. You will witness a lot of stupidity from others - don't BE one of them. Before you can lead you have to learn to follow. Take every opportunity to learn and grow. I spent 9 years in the Army joining right after high school. It set the foundation for who I am today. Best wishes to you!

Response by 2LT Paul Denhup made May 13 at 2015 12:50 PM

2015-05-13T12:50:27-04:00

As you can see already on this thread the NCO is your key to success. Listen to them, ask them questions and learn from them. Additionally I would take a look at this link attached as it gives you an overview of the adventure you will embark upon: http://www.goarmy.com/soldier-life/becoming-a-soldier/basic-combat-training.html
Best of luck! Hooah!

Basic Combat Training

Basic Combat Training will be demanding, but well worth it. During these ten weeks, you'll become physically and mentally stronger and you'll gain the necessary framework of an Army Soldier.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2015 1:27 PM

2015-05-13T13:27:15-04:00

I got told this all the time, "This is not a game." My mindset was "This is a game and I am going to beat it." I really enjoyed Basic Training. Just do what you are told and motivate yourself to do the best everyday. Make friends "battle buddies" you may never see some of them again, but they will make your experience and future stories so much more meaningful.

Response by SSG Doug Mclain Jr Sparky made May 13 at 2015 5:30 PM

2015-05-13T17:30:52-04:00

Young man i am former SSG Sparky Mclain. Where are you? I would be honored to meet with you and be a mentor. My job title was Squad leader 11Bravo30CP. I aint no hero just a simple soldier. still. I was medically retired. Text me at [login to see] . I am in chattanooga Tn. About 4 hours from Benning. I went there for 4 schools

Response by PFC Ed Campbell made May 13 at 2015 5:47 PM

2015-05-13T17:47:12-04:00

Some orders or information you will be given won't seem to make sense to you. Just pay attention and do what you are told. A lot of the time, what you are actually being taught is not always the present subject matter, but a way of thinking and reacting.
Take good care of your equipment, one day you may have to depend on it.

Response by CPL Dan Wisniewski made May 13 at 2015 11:26 PM

2015-05-13T23:26:33-04:00

Best advice I can give for your whole career is to keep ALL paperwork given to you from anyone in a binder/folder. It will come in handy atleast once. Im talking about packing lists, orders, equipment issue records, promotion paperwork and medal/award paperwork. The Army loses paperwork often.

Response by SPC Allen Garrett made May 14 at 2015 1:53 PM

2015-05-14T13:53:43-04:00

Welcome to the brotherhood!
I'd say personally going in to Basic the best thing to do is set your expectations correctly.
Know that you are going to get a taste of how hard it can be. It can be demanding at times depending on your situation going in. For example: If you were an athlete in HS you'll find it less "punishing" than other may. As others have said, keep your head up so you can not just do what the DSs tell you, but be ready for those future commands.
There will be some Suck situations, but if you go in with the mindset that no matter what i'm going to come out with something - whether that's physical increase, knowledge, or just the new experience you'll find it to be one of those stepping stones to a better life...with your new brothers.
I highly recommend Airborne school as well.

Hooah!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2015 7:26 PM

2015-05-15T19:26:37-04:00

I'll give you the same advice my Grandpa gave me before I shipped back in 2003: Keep your head down, and your mouth shut. I was in week three before one of my Drill Sergeants realized I was in his platoon, and I was always wherever I was supposed to be. Now, that said, don't be that guy who they have to pull answers out of. If you know the right answer, speak up, otherwise, keep your mouth shut.

All that being said, you'll love it if you go in with the right mindset. You're getting paid to eat, sleep, workout, and shoot weapons that most people only ever dream about using. Your first few weeks you'll do more than most people get to do in their entire lives. It's all about mindset. Yeah, parts of it suck, but having a good mindset will go a long way in those situations. Never quit.

Response by SPC Leland Smith made May 19 at 2015 12:00 AM

2015-05-19T00:00:44-04:00

I had fun in basic training.. At first they will be hard on you but that's a part of the life to live in the ARMY.. Getting deployed isn't fun but you know it's your job. You get used to the country and or the war zone when you get there.. Might take awhile though.. Long as you follow orders and do your best and stand along with the rest of the 11Bravos I think you will be alright.. Just fight hard and do your best.

Response by SGT Hector Rojas, AIGA, SHA made May 20 at 2015 12:00 PM

2015-05-20T12:00:30-04:00

PVT Private RallyPoint Member first of all thanks and congratulations. As you may have noticed by now, you have joined a huge family, you have made instant brother and sisters that will be there for you and with you always.

Military life is not as bad as the movies and some stories will have you believe, but it is not easy either.

First things first, on your weekends, start waking up early on Saturday, I mean 4 am early, and help around in your house, do the yard, wash your family cars, clean the gutters, sweep your driveway, etc. do it until its dark with only 30 minutes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Go to bed at 10 pm, and do it again on Sunday. Your days will become REALLY long and will start REALLY early so start getting ready for that.

Basic is an individual challenge, no one can do it for you, it is a right of passage of sorts, as you'll find out when you finish your final 12 mile ruck. But at the same time, you can not do it alone. You will have a battle buddy and everyone else will count on you as well. We are a TEAM, made of resolute individuals but a team nonetheless.

Don't listen to what other recruits tell you, do instead whatever your Drill Sergeants tell you.

Do realize that whatever yelling, smokings or special treatment you get, has a purpose. There is a method to the madness. They will try to get the civilian out of you, and build the soldier into you. Trust your Drills. At first it wont seem it, but you will remember them later in your life/career, and fondly, heck, you may even become friends later on at some duty station.

You may not believe it when you are being smoked, but everyone already in, respects your decision to join us, it takes a special person to do it. So do not despair, rather embrace the suck, and you will, believe me.

At first you'll try hard as hell NOT to get smoked, after a week or so, you will volunteer to be smoked alongside a battle buddy even if you are not in trouble, it will come naturally to you, and you will realize right there and then that you are one of us.

So don't worry about it, just expect a drastic change, and again, thanks for joining us, see you downrange!

Response by PO1 George Harper made May 20 at 2015 4:11 PM

2015-05-20T16:11:11-04:00

Be positive. There is a reason behind every phase of your training. Be a team player. Remember you will be dependent on each and every member of your team as they will depend on you

Response by SFC John Rivera made May 20 at 2015 6:32 PM

2015-05-20T18:32:12-04:00

Congradulations on joining the world's greatest Army!! Do the best you can at all times and on any assigned task. Be Neat, Complete, and on time. Respect and learn from your Drill Sergeants. If you are put in a leadership position lead by example. And most of all NEVER QUIT!!
When you get to your first pemenent party unit you are gonna have alot more freedom than you did in basic training/AIT. Pace yourself, You dont need to spend all your money in a single weekend. Stay level headed and learn from your NCOs. If you have a problem, use your chain of command.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 7:16 PM

2015-05-20T19:16:58-04:00

ATTENTION TO DETAIL. Follow instructions as they're given and "embrace the suck". The more positive you are about EVERYTHING the better experience you'll have. From what I hear Benning is on a whole different level. Surrounded by males for ten weeks then going to AIT and possibly seeing females (depending on MOS). Do keep your wits about you and remember where you come from as far as how you're raised and your morals. It's easy to get roped into...things. And please don't lose your bearing. So many young soldiers come in and forget to check they're chest before addressing people. Just enjoy the experience for what it is and know it's only as difficult as you make it out to be.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2015 7:35 PM

2015-05-20T19:35:08-04:00

You are not lowly, be proud of the commitment to the brotherhood that you have made. We are a family that stands strong despite our disfunction (you will learn all about that).

As you prepare for basic remember that you wanted to do this. Don't get through zero day and quit because it's the hardest thing you've ever done. You have no idea what hard looks like yet. It will make you tough, you will want to break, others around you will fall. Continue on, never give up, and pick up those around you, that is your family.

Drill Sergeants will push you, piss you off, and possibly insult your intelligence. It's not personal, there is a point to it all and you will understand that when you get to see your family again. You will see that you have changed and that your civilian friends are weak in body and mind. It is then that you will understand what has happened to you, a transformation.

I will close by saying this, drink water and eat the food. Stay clear of sodas, coffee, and anything else that will further dehydrate you. Food is fuel and you'll need plenty of it. If you're actually hurt, get medical attention. Don't go to sick call because you stubbed your stupid toe. If you are sick, go to sick call. No one else wants the crap that you got, especially your Drill Sergeants!

Be in the right uniform, at the right location, at the right time. Have fun and remember that this too shall passs.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2015 9:54 AM

2015-05-21T09:54:00-04:00

First, there is nothing "lowly" about you. Not a lot of people even qualify to join the Army, so the fact that you are able and willing to volunteer for the Army already says that you are anything but "lowly".

Next, at Basic Training, just keep in your mind that its only purpose is to train you how to be a Soldier. It may seem like Drill Sergeants are picking on you or some things are just stupid, but everything is meticulously planned to train you. Just believe in the process and learn as much as you can while you are there.

Finally, I read on here several times to not volunteer for anything; advice that I was given before I enlisted in 1998 as well. Thankfully I didn't listen, and I was able to learn a lot more by volunteering for things. By volunteering to be squad leader, I learned about accountability for not just myself, but for others as well. By volunteering to be in charge of the fire guard duty, I learned how to properly make a DA-6 (duty roster), something that I am convinced that a lot of 1SGs don't know how to properly fill out.

Good luck and take this opportunity to make a good start to a great career!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2015 2:13 PM

2015-05-21T14:13:29-04:00

Once you get to your unit, get with your Team Leader and ask him what your OMPF is. Make sure he teaches you how to use it. Make sure you save ALL of your paperwork that anyone gives you. Immediately create and I Love Me book. This book will be a 3' binder full of document protectors. You will put all of your certificates, orders, 1059's, and all other important stuff in it. As a new private, your military discipline and PT score is what is going to set you apart from your peers. Address individuals by their rank, render the proper courtesies.
99 percent of the time, your unit PT is not enough. You must do physical training on your own. You need to make it a personal MANDATED GOAL of yours to ensure you get a 300 on your PT test EVERY TIME. If you don't make that score, you should be emotional about it. Figure out how to get there.

Once you get to your unit, go to ARMYSTUDYGUIDE.COM and print yourself and ENTIRE board study guide. Put this in a 3' binder with document protectors. Find the "quiet" guy and befriend him. STAY AWAY FROM THE "COOL KIDS" THEY ARE NOTHING BUT TROUBLE. STUDY STUDY STUDY. Inform your Team Leader that you want to go to the Soldier of the Month board. He SHOULD give you a pre board before you get one from your PSG and 1SG.

WIN

After you win that board continue going up to Soldier of the Quarter and so on.

Let your Team Leader know you want to go to Ranger School.

GRADUATE.

Go back to your unit with a Ranger Tab, and you will be going to the E5 board very soon. Make sure you know how to do a Right Face.

THEN GO STRAIGHT TO YOUR TEAM LEADER AND LET HIM KNOW YOU ARE TAKING HIS JOB.

ANY QUESTIONS??

Response by MAJ Keira Brennan made May 21 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-05-21T14:18:17-04:00

"Don't be first - don't be last - and don't volunteer for anything" LOL --- Advise my Dad gave me before I shipped.
"Admit nothing, deny everything and immediately make counter accusations..." --- Advice from my CMOBC small group leader LOL

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2015 2:43 PM

2015-05-21T14:43:53-04:00

Do your best. If you get caught doing a short cut, never do it again. Never make the same mistake twice. Demonstrate that you have learned.

If in doubt, ask. Then do your push-ups and drive on.

Most of all, have fun and a positive mental attitude. I had a blast in basic training, PLDC and WOCS.

Response by SPC Allison Joy Cumming made May 28 at 2015 1:09 PM

2015-05-28T13:09:06-04:00

My first piece of "advice", loose the word lowly. Be a VERY PROUD member of the true 1%ers.

If you go in with a positive attitude, know that you are there to be torn down so you can be rebuilt to the Army's standards of performance.

Response by SGT Stephen Ayers made Jun 11 at 2015 1:29 PM

2015-06-11T13:29:06-04:00

I'm seeing A LOT of excellent advice here...from soldiers who have "been there and done that". One thing I will add is this: Don't go into Basic Training thinking that "Man, I have 10 weeks of this stuff left!". Go in with the mindset that you're just going to take things a day at a time. Before you know it, you'll be on the parade grounds graduating with your new family.
You can also use this advice in life. Don't look at huge projects in terms of I have "this amount of stuff to do". You'll just get frustrated. Take things in small bites/chunks. You'll get more satisfaction in that you're succeeding in every little task accomplished...towards the greater goal.
Thank you in advance for your service. Best of luck in your career!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 16 at 2015 2:33 PM

2015-06-16T14:33:09-04:00

Do what they tell you to do. Don't try to over-think it. My youngest son just graduated from Infantry Basic Training and completed Jump school last Friday. Whatever you do, don't quit. You CAN do it.

Response by SFC Jeff L. made Jun 19 at 2015 10:40 AM

2015-06-19T10:40:54-04:00

PVT Private RallyPoint Member Basic Training isn't the Army. It's just basic training. Most of the challenges are mental. They want to stress you out and wear you down physically at the same time. While you're going through it you'll probably not like it much, but when you get done you'll wish you were back there with the friends you made.

*edit: To Echo what another person said: Keep ALL your paperwork. Especially medical. Get a file or fireproof box and keep all your military dox in there.

Thank you for having the courage to volunteer. You're not a "lowly" anything. You're a BARREL CHESTED FREEDOM FIGHTER! Now go forth and do great things!

Response by SSG Joseph E. Breault, Jr. made Jun 19 at 2015 12:00 PM

2015-06-19T12:00:14-04:00

At sixteen, facing possible d

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 26 at 2015 3:09 AM

2015-06-26T03:09:47-04:00

Take full advantage of what the Army offers. Some people will say do the research and look it up because depending on what you want out of the Army may be out there but the average Soldier does not know about it, because it's not the same as what you're looking for. Use the school benefits. Don't waste your money. Take the budget and financial classes seriously. Don't be taken in by easy credit and instant credit for military. Don't follow the crowd in bad decisions. Because it's seems someone is getting away with something for a while it can catch up to you and have you throwing away your future to fit in with a crowd. Find a mentor at every stage in your career. Beware of barracks lawyers.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 10 at 2015 2:37 PM

2015-07-10T14:37:22-04:00

Five things:
1. Do what you're told
2. Be on time
3. Be in the proper uniform
4. Be a team player
5. Do your very best

Good luck!

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 16 at 2015 2:08 PM

2015-10-16T14:08:40-04:00

Some of my best soldiers were not the brightest or toughest. The best set themselves apart with their attitude to serve with me and the unit. One more thing, they always had a smile.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2016 11:05 AM

2016-03-21T11:05:19-04:00

Do not become a Blue Falcon....

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2016 1:09 PM

2016-03-21T13:09:16-04:00

Listen to the drill SGT, pay attention and do your best. The round brown is looking for those who do not pay attention to details.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Mar 21 at 2016 2:24 PM

2016-03-21T14:24:24-04:00

Do what your told, when your told and how your told. Keep your mouth shut, your eyes, ears open. Don't be late, and don't push things to the last minute. Remember your buddy. Don't try to get away with things, because your Drill Sergeants know the poop. Forget short cuts, do things right the first time. There's no shame in not knowing. Remember - the dumbest question is the one never ask.

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Mar 21 at 2016 5:17 PM

2016-03-21T17:17:22-04:00

Are you going Active duty component or Reserve component?(Guard or Reserve) There are different thing considering, I went through active and I am in the Guard.

Response by PVT William Bresch made Nov 1 at 2016 5:55 PM

2016-11-01T17:55:55-04:00

RUN, VERY FAST, VERY FAR AND NEVER LOOK BACK ...No Honestly, No, Worries, just look at their rank and tell yourself, Jesus I signed up for this, if you laughed, then I did my job...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2017 1:52 PM

2017-10-22T13:52:50-04:00

Long days, fast weeks. You will want to quit, you will hit a wall, But if you suck it up and just focus on giving your maximum effort and stay extremely (falsely) motivated, you will earn the honor to be called a soldier. That’s the only advice you need.

Response by Natasha Hulme made Oct 30 at 2017 1:05 PM

2017-10-30T13:05:13-04:00

Do what they tell you when they tell you to do it

Response by SSG Neil English made Oct 30 at 2017 7:17 PM

2017-10-30T19:17:27-04:00

Don’t volunteer to drive a dump truck unless you love pushing a wheelbarrow

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Nov 3 at 2017 2:00 PM

2017-11-03T14:00:21-04:00

TEAMWORK! use the bubby system with out your Battle Buddle you will fail BASIC TRAINING.
USAFATC OSUT 1988

Response by PFC Robert Rice made Nov 4 at 2017 1:28 AM

2017-11-04T01:28:46-04:00

Be physically fit and mentally fit before you go. While there get squared away and keep a low profile. Follow instructions to the letter. Learn everything you can and do it fast. Don't get caught behind ever. Do this and you will be fine.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2017 1:25 PM

2017-12-08T13:25:54-05:00

Blend in as much as possible unless your looking for a promotion waver

Response by SSgt Gerald Davis Jr made Oct 10 at 2018 3:14 PM

2018-10-10T15:14:24-04:00

My Dad said: "Keep your mouth shut and do what you are told."

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 11 at 2018 1:21 PM

2018-10-11T13:21:39-04:00

1. Be a fast runner.
2. Be a fast runner.
3. Be a fast runner.
4. Drill instructors and recruits will ensure you'll learn everything else.

Response by SSG Kenneth Ponder made Mar 31 at 2020 12:51 PM

2020-03-31T12:51:41-04:00

Try to get in 3d platoon, 3d squad or at least stay out of 1st squad stay in center of other squads till basic over

Response by MAJ Steve Warnerski made Oct 31 at 2022 6:12 PM

2022-10-31T18:12:27-04:00

1. Soldiers Manual of Common Tasks - get a copy and STUDY it. 2. Physical Fitness - be prepared. Push-ups, situps, PULL-UPS, CHIN-UPS, running. 3. Attitude; You're gonna get yelled at. Take it serious...but NOT too serious. NEVER laugh at a DS, even if they sound stupid. 4. HELP your buddies. 5. In 6 - 8 weeks, you'll be done. Keep your eye on the prize.