How to prepare for 13b AIT?

2020-08-21T14:20:12-04:00

I am headed back to Fort Sill for AIT next summer(split ops), and was wondering if anybody had any pointers; what the requirements are, exercises I should do to get in shape, stuff to study up on, etc. I am in decent shape but from what I've heard, as a female, I'm gonna have to really bust my ass if I wanna keep up.

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Aug 21 at 2020 2:33 PM

2020-08-21T14:33:48-04:00

Squats will be useful, as well as pushups, learn good body mechanics, work on stretches and overall physical fitness. Artillery crews will often make things look easy, and just pick up around and go throw it in the feed tray. When the 8 inch Howitzer was the biggest gun out there, it was not uncommon to see a soldier carry a round on each soldier. It was a badge of honor. Those rounds weight between 185lbs to 205 lbs each. How many of them now walk bent over into Walmart now? Be smart, take care of your self. Some of the PT I used to see the Cannon crews do were with sections of telephone pole doing situps with them, carrying them, marching with them. Do they still do that? I don't know, but in 1982 they did, and when I went back to Sill in 1986 they were then. Not all Cannoneer's are Gorilla's nor do they need to be, a lot of them are just regular Joe's...and now Jane's, best of luck to you Redleg, make us proud!

Response by SGT(P) Le'a K Billingsley made Aug 21 at 2020 2:53 PM

2020-08-21T14:53:54-04:00

I was a 13 B 2/2 FA Salute Battery, 1987-1990. Squats,arm and leg exercises. AND LISTEN, do NOT Talk, LISTEN, then do.....the drill instructors will appreciate you more for that. ANY other question myself and others on here can answer.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Aug 21 at 2020 3:05 PM

2020-08-21T15:05:56-04:00

Get you some good ear plugs.

Response by SPC Patrick Kennedy made Aug 24 at 2020 9:02 AM

2020-08-24T09:02:40-04:00

Well, Field Artillery is a combat MOS. During the years while I was in the service, female soldiers were banned from combat MOS assignments.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 25 at 2020 4:29 PM

2020-08-25T16:29:06-04:00

First if all, your gender, has nothing to with the training ahead of you. Second congratulation in your decision in becoming field artillery. You will forever be able to say that you are part of the "King of the Battlefield". I am currently the acting 1sgt of an OKNG artillery battery I have females within my ranks. Females are perfectly capable of performing artllery task, conditions, and standards. As far as what to expect in training listen and do what you told (quickly). Be at the right place at the right time and in the right uniform. If you have any questions ask. All military schools are created for soldiers to be successful not to fail. Once again welcome to the group of field artllery.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 29 at 2020 10:28 PM

2020-08-29T22:28:09-04:00

Artillery knowledge is gained gradually as you get to your first unit. Its safe to say that AIT provides general knowledge on the howitzer systems you may be assigned to in the near future upon completion of your class. Stay motivated, keep an open mind and you'll survive the 2 week crash course to be a redleg.

Response by Michael Sperber made Sep 18 at 2020 9:39 AM

2020-09-18T09:39:38-04:00

Kettlebell, and squats would be my suggestion. And definitely find some high end earplugs and buy several pair The ones from the army are crap, and I have developed some pretty bad tinnitus as a result. It's no joke.

Response by SPC Perry Martin made Dec 17 at 2020 5:38 AM

2020-12-17T05:38:10-05:00

Study your land nav, fuses, rounds, remember it's called Cannon CREW. Also i didn't see anyone mention cardio. Do lots and lots of cardio because if not you'll get beat down your first 8 to 12 rd mission. Doesn't matter how big you are or there is all mechanical and using what's around you to your benefit. You'll find it Red Legs gotta be first at everything first out the tube, first on steel you name it so be ready. But I think you'll have a blast with it. I really miss it these days. Salute Private...