Should passing a cert run be required?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 May 2016 14:48:00 -0400

Cert runs why does it seem if the unit is just trying to impress highers. If the cert isn't a army requirement but just a unit one should it be always pass or fail and trouble for those who can't pass

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2016 2:48 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 May 2016 14:48:50 -0400

I meant failing as the main topic

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2016 3:09 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 May 2016 15:09:50 -0400

I am surprised no one has asked...what the heck are you talking about?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2016 3:33 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 May 2016 15:33:04 -0400

The chain of command can always add to the regs, they just can't take away. Failing a ruck march or run that is a local requirement usually results in extra training, not real punishment. Extra training is only going to help you and make you a better soldier, even if it's not an experience you enjoy.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 25 at 2016 3:37 PM

Cpl Justin Goolsby — Wed, 25 May 2016 15:37:06 -0400

Honestly, I'm not sure what a cert run is, but for instance, when we had our Commanding General inspecting the squadron, everyone was forced to participate in a random event to prove you were within standards. So 1/3 of the squadron did a PFT, 1/3 of the squadron did a CFT, 1/3 of the squadron stepped on a scale to make sure they were within height/weight standards. You didn't get to choose which one you participated in. It didn't matter if you were already certified complete for the year. If you performed poorly, you were in trouble. If you did well, you were given a token reward.

I don't know if this is close to what you were describing, but like any part in the military, some things are good and some things aren't as good.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2016 3:37 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 May 2016 15:37:07 -0400

While "Certification Runs" like the one you mentioned in the 18th Airborne Corps may not be an Army Requirement, unit commanders have the latitude to determine additional methods of measuring their unit's overall fitness and effectiveness.

Remedial PT is no more a punishment than Remedial Training when you fail to zero at the range. It's just making sure you receive the additional training required to meet the standard, albeit local standard, but standard none the less.