How hard is Air Assault School?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:06:14 -0400

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 3:07 PM

CSM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:07:53 -0400

Not hard just pay attention during the slingload classes and you will be good. Unless you can't footmarch, or run, or do push ups/pull ups.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 3:08 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:08:43 -0400

The biggest thing other than Day 0, is attention to detail, phase 2 hands on can be a little tricky, just make sure to pay attention.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 3:09 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:09:13 -0400

Show up, have the complete packing list, do overhead arm claps for a while, pay attention in class and study at night. Easiest 10 days in the Army

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 3:09 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:09:40 -0400

The biggest failure is always the Rope

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 3:10 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:10:00 -0400

Last I heard is they don't even make you run around everywhere saying Air Assault every time your left foot hits the ground anymore. I'm sure it gets a little easier every year.

Response by SGT Frances Richardson made Jul 29 at 2016 3:10 PM

SGT Frances Richardson — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:10:23 -0400

It's hard if you don't study. They'll give you a small handbook with everything that you need to know. Just take some time and study that material and you'll do fine on the written exams. Add for the hands on, pay attention to the instructors. They do a good job of explaining everything. The toughest part for me was the obstacle course and the repel tower.

Just listen to what they tell you and you will be fine. The times changes daily so you may have to be in at 0530 one day and 0415 the next.

Attention to detail
Attention to detail
Attention to detail

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 3:11 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:11:53 -0400

Once you get passed phase 1, you are golden.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Jul 29 at 2016 3:12 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:12:09 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member I can attest to day 0, I made it to day 6, the A22 cargo bag, sent me packing. I went through Fort Benning, Ga in February 2007.

Response by SFC Giancarlo Rici made Jul 29 at 2016 3:13 PM

SFC Giancarlo Rici — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:13:31 -0400

I wish I could say how hard it is today vs when I went through it back in 1998. However, I'll say this, I am NO pt stud. Just average... But, this school is all heart! Was it hard? Yap! But don't give up! Push and when you think you can't do it! That's when you fail! Make sure you push and continue to push! I and so many before and after me have completed it on a 1st time around! So can you!

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Jul 29 at 2016 3:19 PM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:19:18 -0400

They used to say its harder then Jump School. I have never been to jump school so I don't know. I went through in 1983 and it was hard but doable.

Its physically tough, but like most things in the Army its more mental. However, have your stuff squared away. Follow the packing list to the letter, make sure you are in good physical condition and you should be fine. Unless you are afraid of heights and helicopters.

Response by SSG Gerhard S. made Jul 29 at 2016 3:27 PM

SSG Gerhard S. — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:27:59 -0400

Keep in mind, I went through in 1985. Air assault school was, and I assume, still is, a both, physically and intellectually demanding course. There is daily PT, road marches, lots of memorization, tests, and hands on exercises. That being said it is a rewarding experience. Show up in good physical condition, make sure you can road march, and of you can get your hands on a Air assault manual, learn and memorize the Army Aircraft, their capacities, and the Army vehicles along with their weights..... A good head start never hurts. Good luck!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 3:35 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:35:49 -0400

The only stress is between you and the task. The better a soldier understands that, the easier any school is. It's a military school. Keep your mouth shut (unless asked a question, or asking one) keep your head on a swivel keep your focus on the instructions and do what your told. And by all means run the o vourse before going to ensure you can complete the entire thing. Complete a 12 miler prior so you know you can. Good luck. All the Air Assaults before you are wishing you well.

Response by SGT David T. made Jul 29 at 2016 3:43 PM

SGT David T. — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:43:30 -0400

Wasn't hard, only took me three tries. Mostly that was me not following directions well lol.

Response by SFC J Fullerton made Jul 29 at 2016 3:53 PM

SFC J Fullerton — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:53:24 -0400

The best advice I can give you is don't concern yourself with how hard it is. Go in with a positive attitude, be motivated, and give 100% effort and you will be fine. Same applies to anything in life. Anything earned has its challenges, otherwise it would be given and not earned.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 3:54 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 15:54:27 -0400

There is a lot of running with PT on and weapon and a road March which was hard for me but maybe it changed, I went to to Air Assault School back in 1988

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 4:00 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 16:00:46 -0400

Hello there PFC, I just graduated from Air Assault School earlier this year in Fort Hood! I agree with the statements left by other responders to this question. If you study, are decent at ruckmarches, know how to climb a rope, and can conquer your fears of heights enough to get through the obstacle course and rappelling phase, you will do well! When I attended back in February, the course was ten days straight-through (not counting day zero). Make sure anything longer than 6 inches on your equipment is secured with 100MPH tape. The packing list is a killer from drops that I had experienced. Everyone else has covered the other angles of this school for the most part. I wish you the best of luck in earning your wings, be safe today!!

Response by SGT Bryon Sergent made Jul 29 at 2016 4:41 PM

SGT Bryon Sergent — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 16:41:42 -0400

I was class 15-89. Was stationed at Ft Campbell back when the Air Assault School was across the street from the Rakkasans! I was a Rakkasan and got recycled on the sling load phase. The PT was kinda grueling, running in combat boots, the old black ones! Passed Phase One top of the class. Helicopter knowledge. Phase 2 was sling load. Got caught up on a couple of gigs. A-22 bag and the deuce-n-half. Used 1/4 cotton webbing instead of 550 cord. They are both white and if you DON"T pay attention you will miss it. They try and catch you up. I suggest putting your hand and eyes on every part of the sling load as possible. Phase 3 was repel phase. Was a piece of cake till the ruck march. still passed at the age of 19 with 2.30 though. It's a ruck run with a 30 lb ruck, dummy rifle, and back then LBE ( Load Bearing Equipment). Pistol belt, suspenders, 2 ammo pouches, 2-1qt canteens(full) and first aid pouch!

You look young and fit, so therefore, you should be fine! Bring whats on the packing list. NOTHING MORE, NOTHING LESS! they will boot your ass. They inspect every morning just to see if you lose or forget something. If I remember correctly they done a lay out before and after the timed ruck march. Just to make sure you didn't pass anything off to lighten the load! 30 lbs starts kicking your ass about mile 8!

Oh almost forgot. When you are repelling out of the black-hawk and on belay, don't hold the ropes so tight you go up with the bird! LMAO will never forget roster number 22! he went about 80 feet in the air and got 2nd degree burns on his hands sliding down the ropes before the bird got him on the ground! And yes he hand on the repelling gloves!

Good luck brother and Air Assault! You will have a Rendezvous with Destiny!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 5:23 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 17:23:15 -0400

It's not, don't be a B.... And you'll be fine. Attention to detail. Also this question has been asked a bunch of time. Utilize your search bar and read. Rangers Lead The Way

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 8:10 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 20:10:58 -0400

It all depends on you. Don't ask how hard air assault school is. Ask yourself how hard you are. The stronger you are, the easier it is. The smarter you are, the easier it is. The more motivated you are...you get the picture. Prepare yourself mentally and physically, and you will pass with ease. Talk to recent graduates, absorb their lessons, and go knock it out.

Response by MSG Pat Colby made Jul 29 at 2016 9:15 PM

MSG Pat Colby — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 21:15:22 -0400

In my previous life I was an Instructor and Team Sgt for Phase 2 of TAAS.

#1 ~ Don't take shit personal.
#2 ~ Learn how to climb a rope. (using your feet to support your weight as you reach up.)
#3 ~ Call Cadence on the runs. You can get + Spots for doing it well.

The biggest thing in passing Phase 2 is "Look at what you are touching and touch what you look at." I couldn't count how many times a Soldier would have the "gig" in their hand while looking elsewhere. Follow your sequence.

Find a recent copy of the Handbook. Memorize that bitch from cover to cover. The link counts and tensile strengths of the various equipment can be daunting to say the least.

Good Luck and keep a positive attitude!

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 9:25 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 21:25:32 -0400

I did it at age 36, you have to be physically fit, as well as pay attention to detail.

Response by CSM Charles Hayden made Jul 29 at 2016 10:25 PM

CSM Charles Hayden — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 22:25:54 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member Standard Army responses! Have your Sxxx straight and do it right!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2016 10:32 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 22:32:39 -0400

It's too easy PFC....go there and do your best. The air assault sergeants will not fail you. Go there with a open mind. You will learn a lot. Pay attention to detail and you will graduate with honors. AIR ASSAULT!!!!

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Jul 29 at 2016 11:53 PM

SSG Trevor S. — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 23:53:16 -0400

It's hard enough to be proud of graduating. It's definitely not scary hard though. Like CSM Private RallyPoint Member said, pay attention academically and don't be afraid to sweat.

Response by LTC John Shaw made Jul 30 at 2016 1:19 PM

LTC John Shaw — Sat, 30 Jul 2016 13:19:52 -0400

I went through Fort McCoy April of 1991. 53 people showed up only 17 made it through phase 0, especially the obstacles and rope climb. Only 11 graduated with phase 2 aircraft loads being the issue. If you practice the obstacles, are in shape and are reasonability detail oriented you will be fine.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2016 5:28 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Jul 2016 17:28:29 -0400

Cake. Moist cake is harder.

Response by SSG Thomas Werstlein made Jul 30 at 2016 6:07 PM

SSG Thomas Werstlein — Sat, 30 Jul 2016 18:07:08 -0400

I went through in April of 97 while stationed at Ft. Richardson, AK. In my opinion if you are mentally tough and resilient you will make it through the physical requirements. If you pay attention to detail during the sling load stage you will be fine. ATD is KEY during sling load! Stay positive, have fun, and pray you get the pilot that flies low and with the terrain.

Response by SFC Mike Edwards made Jul 30 at 2016 6:22 PM

SFC Mike Edwards — Sat, 30 Jul 2016 18:22:56 -0400

Any task in the military is accomplishable. It is how you go about it. If you soldier the correct way, then it is easy. pay attention to the instructions and instructors, it will be a cake walk. Yumyum. Eat up. I got mine at 42. Good luck. Stay strong. Be all you need to be.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 30 at 2016 9:21 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 30 Jul 2016 21:21:20 -0400

Get used to saying Air Assault a lot, that's about it. If you can get past all the dumb crap they make you do...it's not that hard.

Response by LTC Jesse Edwards made Jul 31 at 2016 9:07 AM

LTC Jesse Edwards — Sun, 31 Jul 2016 09:07:42 -0400

I endorse SGM Mike Oldsen's response.

I'd add that I still remember the 12 mile road march. I had a small nail come up in the back of my right boot at about the 7 mile mark. Five miles later my sock was wet with blood.

Wear good boots.

Response by SPC Charles Zeller made Jul 31 at 2016 5:27 PM

SPC Charles Zeller — Sun, 31 Jul 2016 17:27:45 -0400

Pay attention to detail, listen to the instructors when I went through it in Hawaii they liked to do the ok when I say fall out fall out on your gear, then they would yell now move out everybody runs to their gear and gets smoked for not paying attention. Be able to pass the obstacle course, runs in the morning or in the afternoon and the ruck marches and your good. Most important pay attention to detail.

Response by SFC Carlos Gamino made Jul 31 at 2016 6:07 PM

SFC Carlos Gamino — Sun, 31 Jul 2016 18:07:40 -0400

It can be challenging but not that hard. Thousands have completed the course. Just pay attention.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 31 at 2016 9:29 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 31 Jul 2016 21:29:40 -0400

It's a joke

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2016 3:37 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 15:37:03 -0400

I went through the school in 2002 at Fort Campbell and it was a little difficult mentally, you have to study for the exam the physical aspect wasn't too bad. You just have to negotiate the obstacle course and do some runs and have a few smoke sessions plus that 12 mile ruck march. The sling load phase was difficult for some, you just got to pay attention to detail.

Response by PFC Kevin Shelbrock made Aug 1 at 2016 4:56 PM

PFC Kevin Shelbrock — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 16:56:54 -0400

The two biggest problems I've seen out of Air Assault School were the marches and initial inspection. I cannot tell you how many people failed out of the school on day 1 because they did not pack correctly, and believe me they will send your ass right back to your unit for it. The ruck marches seem to get quite a bit more people than you would expect. everything else is about how much your willing to learn.

Response by SSG Earl Corp made Aug 1 at 2016 5:41 PM

SSG Earl Corp — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 17:41:25 -0400

I went through in 1982 at Ft. Campbell. The hardest thing for me was the run after the obstacle course. Since I was in an infantryman stationed there I had been involved in sling loading operations so phase 2 was a snap. I was an e-2 and was the fastest on the test. I had to go to the gig pit because I hadn't colored in one sliver of my belt buckle. That sucked.
Good luck. Air Assault!!

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 1 at 2016 6:16 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 18:16:59 -0400

As long as you can climb rope, ruck march, and pay attention to detail, you'll be fine. Also, be prepared to say AIR ASSAULT a lot! Best of luck

Response by SPC Dale St. Pierre made Aug 1 at 2016 6:23 PM

SPC Dale St. Pierre — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 18:23:50 -0400

The keys are, load your bag according to the layout. The neater you have it packed, the faster you will have it done. (Paying attention to detail ) after that it's study remember, pt, road marching and more road marching.

Response by CPO Austin Walker made Aug 1 at 2016 8:47 PM

CPO Austin Walker — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 20:47:04 -0400

I went back in 92. As the rest has said, attention to detail. Study study study. Sling load was the rough part for me.

Response by SFC Edwin Mujica made Aug 1 at 2016 9:28 PM

SFC Edwin Mujica — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 21:28:32 -0400

You have to be fit, but is mostly mental. Most of the people that failed as I went through in 1993, defeated themselves. You have to stay positive and be persistant. The hardest part for me was the last day 12 road march. You have to load up with your meal the night before since there's no time to have a good breakfast on that morning. Then make sure you drink plenty of water during the march. The last couple of miles I had to pace myself due to cramps.

Response by SSG Lan Reliford made Aug 1 at 2016 11:52 PM

SSG Lan Reliford — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 23:52:50 -0400

0 Day I called one of the cadre Sergeant Airborne and took the smoking of a lifetime. Then I proceeded to take one every day for the next ten days bc I was already Airborne and coming from Bragg lol. Good times.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2016 1:25 AM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 01:25:30 -0400

The hardest part is remembering to lock your barrel lol

Response by SGT Matt Voll made Aug 2 at 2016 7:20 AM

SGT Matt Voll — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 07:20:09 -0400

If you're asking "how hard" it is, probably too difficult for you

Response by SGT Matt Voll made Aug 2 at 2016 7:23 AM

SGT Matt Voll — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 07:23:07 -0400

I never did air assault. The Regiment made me grab a rope and jump

Doc Voll

Response by SGT James Colbert made Aug 2 at 2016 8:11 AM

SGT James Colbert — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 08:11:59 -0400

easier than airbourne school

Response by SSG Brian MacBain made Aug 2 at 2016 10:14 AM

SSG Brian MacBain — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 10:14:12 -0400

It is not hard if you pay attention, study, and do not worry about the mind games they try to do.

Response by CPT Ian Stewart made Aug 2 at 2016 10:57 AM

CPT Ian Stewart — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 10:57:45 -0400

Really great advice in these comments. In addition to things already posted, I'd like to add - don't let the cadre catch you cursing on the tower. I got tangled up on my very first rappel and let out an "Oh s**t". That cost me push-ups to the winds (10 each in four directions). Ah, the memories. :-))

Response by SGT Leon Cooper made Aug 2 at 2016 11:13 AM

SGT Leon Cooper — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 11:13:47 -0400

My barracks (584th Maint Co.) was, literally, across the street from the Air Assault School at Fort Campbell. For nine months, I watched class after class on Graduation Day; they were proud to leave the grounds with those wings. I graduated myself back in the Summer of '87, right before heading to Korea.

Best not to think of it in terms of how hard it will be (Zero Day, burning your hands because you held the rope too tightly, memorizing link counts, the 12-mile road march, etc.), but the really cool things that you will do. Your first rappel from a chopper, your first night rappel; those are amazing, and worth the price of admission.

When the cadre pins those wings on, it's a very cool moment; you're not the least bit sore the rest of that day, and you feel as if you could eat nails. However, the next day...

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2016 11:42 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 11:42:27 -0400

Let's put it this way: GEN Colin Powell in his book admitted he was a recycle at Air Assault School. But, my own experience was different when I attended in May of 94. The daily physical stuff was no biggie, ya just did it. Mentally, if you have retention issues or poor study habits, it will seem painful. Saw PT studs go toes up on the academics portion, especially in the sling load phase. Zero Day will put a hurt on you if you are not prepared mentally and physically. Rappel phase was my biggest issue as I had, and still have, an problem with heights. The final 12 mile road march is nothing but a timed thing.
So, it is all on the individual as experiences vary. You can do it, you just need to be mentally and physically ready for whatever happens.

Response by CPL Aloysius Grimaudo made Aug 2 at 2016 2:41 PM

CPL Aloysius Grimaudo — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 14:41:22 -0400

u at fort drum...that makes a difference..

Response by MSG Mark Baker made Aug 2 at 2016 2:48 PM

MSG Mark Baker — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 14:48:08 -0400

In my opinion, physically it wasn't really hard. If you can pass your PT test, and can ruck 12 miles, you're good. However, I do remember the instructors being sticklers for attention to detail. If you didn't have everything on the packing list, they sent YOU packing. Forget your ID tags - and you were out. (And they do check after the graduation ruck - and you really don't want to fail at that point. ) The tests are fairly simple if you pay attention, and don't rush (even tho' you're being timed - slow is smooth, and smooth is fast) on the "hands on" tests. (Sling Load inspections.) But you get 2 chances at those. Just do your best and don't quit, you'll be fine.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Aug 2 at 2016 2:58 PM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 14:58:28 -0400

Zero day is a pain in the ass, but it's doable by anyone in decent condition, I was 32 when I took the course. The obstacle course has a lot of height obstacles and you can't screw any of those up. The rest is attention to detail. If you make it through the course to the Rucksack march, you should be in good enough shape to at least pass it. Harder than the PT at OCS, easier than PT at IOBC. They will drop you in a heart beat for safety violations.

Response by SPC Byron Skinner made Aug 2 at 2016 3:21 PM

SPC Byron Skinner — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 15:21:46 -0400

Sp4 Byron Skinner…Done a bit of this way back when…The only advice is have a round chambered…the chopper is only going to get about three feet from the ground and you will have only a few seconds to de-ass the Huey…Usually the door gunner is raking the bushes but the enemy is laying low. They want to get the chopper but good door gunners will keep their heads down and give the pilot time to get out…A hot LZ is one of the least fun things to be involved in, you are in the open for about a 100 meters and when you get to the vegetation line Mr. Charles is waiting for you…No sane person would do this.

Response by 1SG Harold Piet made Aug 2 at 2016 3:48 PM

1SG Harold Piet — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 15:48:21 -0400

I went through in 1991 or 92 and it was a learning experience but not tough. I was in Airborne units for 12 or 13 years prior so I was physically ready.

Response by MAJ David Parr made Aug 2 at 2016 6:38 PM

MAJ David Parr — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 18:38:04 -0400

It is physically intensive, but if you are in tip top physical condition, and are properly motivated, you should be able to complete the course. It is taught at many installations these days... Good luck to you!

Response by SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder made Aug 2 at 2016 6:38 PM

SGT Matthew Schenkenfelder — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 18:38:44 -0400

It's not hard unless you make it hard by going there physically unprepared and failing to study for paper exams and not taking practical applications seriously.

Response by MAJ David Phillips made Aug 2 at 2016 8:54 PM

MAJ David Phillips — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 20:54:24 -0400

I went through in 1980, first class with the Blackhawk. When I went through, the school had the hardest thing I had ever completed in my life - Troop Ladder, and one of the most mentally challenging - Tree Landing Platform. These are now both removed from the program. This was by far, the best Army school I attended in my 25+ years. Make sure you are in great shape, pay attention to details, and study any time you have while at the school. I later ended up being a rappel master for my unit in Washington DC, and had a constant real world daily mission we trained for.

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Aug 2 at 2016 9:16 PM

LTC Kevin B. — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 21:16:24 -0400

Physically? Not hard at all. Mentally? It can be a challenge if you don't pay attention to their instructions and you don't prepare for the tests.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2016 9:24 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 21:24:43 -0400

It's honestly so easy. Like you're already being told, it's not the physical parts that can get you, it's the memorization of the sling loads and all of that stuff. All I can say is make flash cards, and study every night. As far as the physical stuff goes, the confidence course is just that... You need to be confident, the obstacles aren't hard, they will just put you in what some would call uneasy circumstances that will require confidence in yourself.

Response by SPC Douglas Hemmingway made Aug 2 at 2016 11:42 PM

SPC Douglas Hemmingway — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 23:42:40 -0400

I would assume that it would depend on whether you are going to take the Active Duty or the Reserve Component School. I understand the Reserve Component Schools are shorter and thus devote mostly to the most needed skills. Either way pay attention to the instructors and practice what they show you the way they show you.

Response by 1LT Christopher Watson made Aug 3 at 2016 1:27 AM

1LT Christopher Watson — Wed, 03 Aug 2016 01:27:49 -0400

Air Assault school ? O.J.T. in Cambodia 1970 1stAirCav. Not too hard.

Response by CPL Joseph Hutchinson made Aug 3 at 2016 5:34 AM

CPL Joseph Hutchinson — Wed, 03 Aug 2016 05:34:33 -0400

Oh, and remember, when the man on belay holds the rope too tight and jams your manhood into your stomach as a result. what ever you do, do not let loose of your rope, remove your helmet and throw it at him with both hands from 50ft off of the ground. Ya, don't do that and you will be GTG.

Response by SGT Mike Reed made Aug 3 at 2016 7:47 AM

SGT Mike Reed — Wed, 03 Aug 2016 07:47:32 -0400

Accept the challenge...or don't. Any military school is as easy or as difficult as YOU make it. Your mindset determines your level of success. If you give it your all, and do not succeed, it's a learning experience. To not even try is failure.

Response by COL Michael Freville made Aug 3 at 2016 8:12 AM

COL Michael Freville — Wed, 03 Aug 2016 08:12:13 -0400

More mental than physical. The 33 foot tower is there for a reason. Because that is the perfect height to provoke maximum fear in humans psychologically. Any closer and you can see the ground quite well. Any higher and you start losing your fear of the height.

Response by SGT Bruce Miller made Aug 3 at 2016 11:15 AM

SGT Bruce Miller — Wed, 03 Aug 2016 11:15:12 -0400

Easy peasy

Response by SSG Mark Franzen made Aug 3 at 2016 4:46 PM

SSG Mark Franzen — Wed, 03 Aug 2016 16:46:13 -0400

I would say Look on You tube they have couple different videos on it.

Response by SGT James Coleman made Aug 8 at 2016 2:11 AM

SGT James Coleman — Mon, 08 Aug 2016 02:11:35 -0400

To lazy to walk, to scare to jump then go air assault lol just kidding it s mind over matter don't think how hard it is think how fun it will be and go for it you have already pass the hard part ,you join the world greatest army now go be all you can be

Response by LTC Robert Parker made Aug 8 at 2016 5:59 PM

LTC Robert Parker — Mon, 08 Aug 2016 17:59:58 -0400

I graduated as the Distinguished Honor Grad in 1976. IMHO, it was harder than Airborne school due to having both mental & physical requirements.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 12 at 2016 6:37 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 12 Aug 2016 18:37:48 -0400

Just haul ass on the ruck march and pay attention...attention to detail is the biggest emphasis of the course

Response by SGT Daniel Roper made Aug 13 at 2016 2:08 AM

SGT Daniel Roper — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 02:08:14 -0400

I passed as a Private in 04 Ft. Campbell. The Ruck was the most difficult physical portion. Pay attention in class, study some, and you will be fine.

Response by SPC Nathan Barnes made Aug 13 at 2016 2:32 AM

SPC Nathan Barnes — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 02:32:23 -0400

i've jumped out of planes, and i've done some repelling, both are a blast, so have fun, and enjoy the ride, BROTHER.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 13 at 2016 3:10 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 15:10:16 -0400

I went at Fort Bliss when I was stationed there about a year and a half go and the only part I didn't get a first time go on was the hook up, just gotta watch out for the gloves and practice it. Otherwise everything is attention to detail and a little physical toughness I suppose.

Response by SSG Don Cartrette made Aug 19 at 2016 10:40 PM

SSG Don Cartrette — Fri, 19 Aug 2016 22:40:15 -0400

I used to be an instructor at Campbell (91-93).... Attention to detail and study! We dropped most soldiers during slingload testing because they didn't follow the test sequence/patterns we provided.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 23 at 2016 7:59 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 Aug 2016 07:59:13 -0400

road march sucked but then again I had to go 6 mi down hill then back up 6 mi. You run everywhere. Pay attention to the LITTLE details. Like cups paper...

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 10 at 2016 2:33 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 10 Sep 2016 14:33:05 -0400

It is honestly not that hard. You juspt have to pay attention. Also pay attention to detail when u do go to the school.

Response by PFC Kevin Knapp made Oct 13 at 2016 4:24 PM

PFC Kevin Knapp — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:24:37 -0400

For me, Air Assault school was much harder than jump school. There were way more ways to fail, much more to memorize. Way more mental, instructors could fail you at any moment.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2016 2:38 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 14:38:03 -0400

Air Assault school is harder then Airborne school, due to more opportunities to failing out. The hardest physical thing is the road march. If you PAY ATTENTION to DETAILS and listen to what you are told anyone can pass.

Response by Tom Coyle made Aug 25 at 2017 9:10 PM

Tom Coyle — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 21:10:49 -0400

Not to bad
Great school

Response by SGT Steve Anderson made Apr 5 at 2018 9:49 PM

SGT Steve Anderson — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 21:49:01 -0400

I qualified 20 yrs ago, if it's the same be ready to sweat, make sure your physically fit (zero day will let you know), if you don't make it your first time learn from the mistakes. The last road march is 10 miles and very grueling, I'd hate to do that with a bad knee or something. Night rappelling was my favorite, once you qualify go on to rappel master school, if they still do stabo it's fun stuff. Good like there air assault!

Response by 1SG Chad Mcdaniel made Jun 8 at 2018 6:26 PM

1SG Chad Mcdaniel — Fri, 08 Jun 2018 18:26:12 -0400

I graduated two days before turning 43. Make sure you're in shape. Pay attention and as everything in life give 100 you'll be fine

Response by SSG Harry Outcalt made Jul 10 at 2018 12:43 PM

SSG Harry Outcalt — Tue, 10 Jul 2018 12:43:07 -0400

Lol, There used be a Sign hanging over the entrance it said Ten of the Toughest Day's in the U.S. Army that sign has been gone for a long time does that tell you anything..

Response by SGT Colio Raynor made Aug 11 at 2018 2:24 PM

SGT Colio Raynor — Sat, 11 Aug 2018 14:24:17 -0400

10 to the Wind

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2018 3:45 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 25 Oct 2018 03:45:36 -0400

Be disciplined. Be accountable. READ all the instructions. Conduct your own personal private rehearsal every day. Sleep, Eat, and do mobility exercises to release the tension at the end of the day. The school is easy. Enjoy it.

Response by SGT Larry Reed made Dec 5 at 2018 2:18 PM

SGT Larry Reed — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 14:18:57 -0500

It's only a hard as you make it. You need a positive attitude, you are their to learn and perform. It's not supposed to be easy. You are constantly moving, even jogging in place also. For me now it's memory I will always hang on to .

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2018 11:11 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 23:11:10 -0500

Not hard at all. PT was easy, rucks were easy and so was the obstacle course. Pay attention in class, make sure to hilight in your study materials and packets daily. Study the material every night, memorize the crews for each aircraft and their capabilities. Bring double or more of EVERYTHING on your packing list. Put one set in your duffles and the other set in your ruck and don’t touch the items inside unless you want to make sure you have everything. Lay out your packing list the night before the rucks to make sure you aren’t missing shit. Set a watch to 1 min and tie 50 swiss seats all night the night before the practical and graduate. Too easy, not a physical school at all in my experience. Mental tho.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Jun 2 at 2019 5:55 PM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 17:55:54 -0400

I spent 2 years not running because of profile. And 5 not doing pullups for my shoulder. I got to Campbell and was told AAS was not optional for leaders. It TECHNICALLY was, but in reality it wasn't. I came off of profile, spent 3 months getting into good enough shape to pass the run, and off I went. At the age of 40, in the worst shape of my life (to that point). In order to get in, you have to do a 2 mile in 18:00. I did mine in 17:58. You have 3 hours for the 12 mile. I did it in 2:59:57.

I say all that to say this. It is more about "want" than "can." I was in horrible shape. I barely squeaked through. But I DID squeak througb - 1st time go. It is only haed if you let it be hard. Otherwise it is not hard - only challenging . And challenges are GOOD things.

Response by CW4 Craig Urban made Jun 2 at 2019 7:52 PM

CW4 Craig Urban — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 19:52:31 -0400

I could do it. I would just have to be sober

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2019 8:01 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 Jul 2019 08:01:24 -0400

It has been some time since I went through. It is not difficult at all just remember to pay attention to details. Sling load test gets a lot of people the first time.