Posted on Oct 17, 2017
Ft Sill BCT next month. Looking for advice for an older recruit, as well as a more accurate packing list. I am motivated, is that enough?
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Basic Combat Training (BCT)
Age
Basic Combat Training (BCT) Age
Posted 7 y ago
Responses: 15
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Never been to Sill, but all I can tell you, I was 30 when I went thru basic, get ready for what may seem to you as some really stupid behavior. For the most part I was treated at Leonardwood just like any private, several D.S.'s asked my what the heck I was doing. My Platoon sergeant had a rotation for leadership, they saved me to be in charge for BRM, so every morning had to do accountability for weapons and masks. Just remember allot of it is just a head game go with it and do what they ask.
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PFC (Join to see)
Thanks. I sometimes wonder if it's worth it at my age to do this! But I know I want to.
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SGT Matt Cordua
Ft Sill will be cold. That said, remember you are a recruit. They GIVE you what you will wear, and instruct you how to use it. If you get the 6000 area for barracks, sweet; if not, standard barracks can get downright cold. Your civilian clothes will be locked away until you are released from BCT. Like SSG Phelps stated: Just do what you are told. Start your physical endurance training now, before you get there. You can thank me later. AND DO NOT FALL ASLEEP ON FIRE WATCH! Good luck 'cruit! And thank you for your future service. May you excel.
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CPT Lawrence Cable
PFC (Join to see) - I went through OCS at 30 and it's a lot bigger pain in the ass than Basic. It's a bit of a culture shock and remember that the Drills are being very directive because most of the people there will be clueless about almost everything. It helps to be in good physical condition when you hit the door ,I wasn't when I went to OSUT, but they fixed that pretty quick. Good luck.
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PFC (Join to see) Listen, observe and be a squared away recruit. Being motivated will help, but be prepared to be challenged. Years from now, you will look back fondly at the challenges that you overcame. Enjoy the adventures, and provide us with an update later. Good luck.
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Motivation is important. People who want to be there and want to succeed, will. There will be some culture shock. That's to be expected. But thousands upon thousands of people have been there and made it through. I was 17 when I went to boot camp but there were some older guys in my platoon. They had a rough time. Mainly because they didn't like being yelled at by guys that were younger than them. My advice is to check your pride at the door and just accept the situation as it is and do what you're told.
My #1 tip for anyone entering the military is to be in the right place, at the right time, and in the right uniform. If you can do that you will be spared from a lot of personal attention that you don't want to get. Tip #2 is to do well on the APFT. Again, failing that test will bring negative attention to you. Accomplish those two things and most of the drill sergeant's attention will be focused on those who can't.
My #1 tip for anyone entering the military is to be in the right place, at the right time, and in the right uniform. If you can do that you will be spared from a lot of personal attention that you don't want to get. Tip #2 is to do well on the APFT. Again, failing that test will bring negative attention to you. Accomplish those two things and most of the drill sergeant's attention will be focused on those who can't.
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