What is it like to be assigned to a basic training post?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 20:20:36 -0400

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Apr 23 at 2017 8:29 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 20:29:45 -0400

I'm not enough of a Sadist to be a "Boot Pusher" LOL! All Jokes aside, It requires a Special Skill Set to Train the Next Generation of Warriors and they have All My Respect. "Company 443 Push Up Position Hut" Zetterholm's Mad Dogs, Company Commander CTRC Zetterholm. Respectfully CTO1 Wm "Chip" Nagel USN(R)

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Apr 23 at 2017 9:35 PM

SPC Erich Guenther — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 21:35:47 -0400

Yeah here is the deal, if your being assigned and your not part of the Training Cadre your going to be told to keep your distance from the training recruits, it's not wise to befriend them either. So your going to be instructed recruits and recruit training area are off limits unless your specifically instructed otherwise. The experienced Soldiers training in those companies are told the exact same thing. Limit interaction and direct most questions back to the training cadre.

Response by SGT Victoria Belbusti made Apr 23 at 2017 9:45 PM

SGT Victoria Belbusti — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 21:45:06 -0400

Depends on what you do. It kinda sucked cause it's long hours and minimal training or opportunities. But I had fun at Benning doing range coverage. The days were long but the privates and Drill SGT's were hilarious.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2017 11:07 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 23:07:30 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member I went through Boot Camp at MCRD, San Diego. I went back to MCRD, San Diego for Mess Duty, and Field Radio Operator School. We had to keep our distance and could not interact with the recruits, but I enjoyed the school, the base, and beautiful San Diego.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Apr 23 at 2017 11:36 PM

COL Charles Williams — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 23:36:52 -0400

Awesome!!!! Every assisgnment is what you make it. I came here in 2003, and my family never left. I retired here in 2013. I am not from here. SPC Private RallyPoint Member . It largely depends on your job. What will you be doing?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2017 1:05 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 01:05:32 -0400

If you are assigned in a position at a training support unit then you might interact with trainees during your duty as a supply clerk, but I can almost guarantee that it will happen with a Drill Instructor or Senior Instructor present. If you are in another unit that just happens to share the post with trainees, then you will be instructed on areas where you should not be, as well as how to handle encounters with trainees in public areas such as PX, Malls, and Clothing Sales.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2017 1:58 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 01:58:46 -0400

I imagine it will be like anything else, just stay away from the IET Soldiers unless you're told to be there.

Response by CPT Scott Sharon made Apr 24 at 2017 7:25 AM

CPT Scott Sharon — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 07:25:56 -0400

My one-year assignment as a training officer and XO in a basic training unit in Ft. Jackson, S.C, was actually fun. I enjoyed working with the recruits.

Response by PFC Jonathan Albano made Apr 24 at 2017 8:19 AM

PFC Jonathan Albano — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 08:19:20 -0400

When I was lost in the woods, my NCO said to not even talk to the trainees unless I was doing a quick uniform/customs and courtesy correction. Also, there were a few times that a Drill Sergent pulled my peers and myself aside and requested that we do what we were doing out of the view of the trainees because it was sending the wrong message to them. Other than that, it was a similar experience to other bases.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2017 9:39 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 09:39:16 -0400

I guess it would be like any other post, except for the large amount of IET Soldiers running around.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2017 1:36 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 13:36:14 -0400

When I was at ALC at Huachuca, the first day they told us to stay away from the AIT kids. Just don't even talk to them. Don't correct them either. If we saw them doing something wrong we had to go find their platoon sergeant.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2017 4:34 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 16:34:53 -0400

Before this question can be properly answered more information as to what your MOS is, if your going to a Basic Training Unit, or if your just going to an actual post since there is a number of things on post you can do. These things can range from support cadre for a BCT Unit, range cadre, or support for other training units on a BCT post for schools such as Airborne, Sniper, etc. all located at Fort Benning, Ga a known Basic Training/OSUT post.

Response by SGT Ej P. made Apr 24 at 2017 10:53 PM

SGT Ej P. — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 22:53:05 -0400

Or you could even be assigned to transient units that are not really under MSCoE or 1ID but just assigned to FLW (like me). Whether TRADOC or FORSCOM being permanent party you do not interact with the trainees if you can help it - I've had to yell at this private because she was being out of line and there was no way I was going to ignore it standing there, and if it's completely disrespectful I do (have said) say something to the trainees.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2017 11:20 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 23:20:38 -0400

I was just wondering. My unit that I am in now is really relaxed. As well as the post isn't really that busy. I remembered going through basic at Jackson and on family day the PX being completely packed.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2017 10:09 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 10:09:50 -0400

If you're a line guy (or gal), it sucks. To a Fobbit, or someone with a Garrison mentality, it's not too bad.

Response by SSG Steven Mangus made Apr 25 at 2017 10:28 AM

SSG Steven Mangus — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 10:28:27 -0400

All I can say is "don't be that guy."

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 25 at 2017 11:16 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 11:16:30 -0400

how is there limited training opportunities when the schools are right there??

Response by SGT Andrew Walling made Apr 25 at 2017 11:31 AM

SGT Andrew Walling — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 11:31:40 -0400

When my unit (3rd brigade 1st ID) moved from ft.hood to ft.knox they were just about to move the armor school out and in all honesty I really didn't see the recruits to much, but if you did you just did your own thing. I think they are scared to talk to you.

Response by SGT Robert Wager made Apr 25 at 2017 12:07 PM

SGT Robert Wager — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 12:07:02 -0400

Any duty assignment is what you put into it.

Response by SSG Johnnie Vaughn made Apr 25 at 2017 1:45 PM

SSG Johnnie Vaughn — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 13:45:47 -0400

Use your time wisely. This is the time to knuckle down and take classes. It is totally different from a TO&E unit, and much easier in most cases. What you make of it is up to you.

Response by Cpl Kennard S. (Sean) Dixon made Apr 25 at 2017 10:11 PM

Cpl Kennard S. (Sean) Dixon — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 22:11:15 -0400

Drill Instructor duty (Drill Field) was a job I would have definitely put in for had I stayed in the corps long enough. Who knows, maybe my son who is currently serving in the corps could possibly put in for the Drill Field sometime down the road. Ooh-Rah!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 26 at 2017 9:10 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 09:10:19 -0400

I was at Benning as an E4, instructors aid. Our 1SG told me the polices and what he expected of me. He then told me, if I stayed in my lane I would be left alone. I did what was expected of me and helped where it was needed. Like Top said, I was left alone, I PT'd on my own, and kind of made my own schedule, just asked where and when I would be needed, do it and go home. It was a great assignment. WLC and Airborne School was the only schools hard to get into, other than that, you could walk on. It was a great assignment.

Response by SSG Ray Murphy made Apr 26 at 2017 9:53 AM

SSG Ray Murphy — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 09:53:59 -0400

Was DA selected for DS duty, did NOT want it, did it, loved it. As an NCO there is very little other assignments more personally and professionally gratifying. An IET installation, from my perspective, had the proper level of discipline.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Apr 26 at 2017 11:26 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Wed, 26 Apr 2017 11:26:17 -0400

Wasn't assigned there, but visited Ft Rucker once. It was home to WOC School and flight school at the time. I was an AF Captain wearing service dress for a ceremony. Never got saluted so many times per linear meter in my life. Proud to have returned all of the salutes to the young men newly warranted and those in flight training. High point was getting to attempt flying a helicopter simulator. As a fixed-wing pilot, it was a real challenge to just keep the pointy end forward.

A lifetime later, I was at Ft Eustis as a GS14. Our work area was across the street from barracks where transportation school students lived. It was interesting to watch them exit the barracks and form up into companies every morning. Helped me keep a perspective on the effects of my office job on the Army.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2017 5:00 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 05:00:55 -0400

It sucks being in a FORSCOM unit at a TRADOC post. You are treated like second class citizens since everything is geared towards the trainees. The TRADOC units always have first call on all the ranges and training areas. You also have to deal with the influx of people every week that are there to attend graduation and family days that have no idea how a military installation works. Forget about going to the PX on weekends, it is filled with trainees.

Response by CPT Dave Brest made Apr 27 at 2017 1:22 PM

CPT Dave Brest — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 13:22:32 -0400

I was training officer at the Basic Tng Center at Ft Knox in 1968-69. It was my first assignment as a brand-new butterbar, and while the DIs did all of the real work, I stood around getting saluted. The 1SG, a crusty old NCO who took me under his wing, taught me all of the unwritten "Old Army " rules about how to respect and utilize NCO 's . I never forgot those lessons when I moved on into traditional assignments, and they were invaluable in getting the the most out of my cadre. Once, years later when I was a Captain and Company Commander, I had a CSM smile and ask me how I knew so much about how things were supposed to be done in "the REAL Army" . I honestly think I learned more in that Basic Training Center than our draftees did !

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 27 at 2017 3:30 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 15:30:25 -0400

It is what you make of it. My first Duty Station was Fort Leonard Wood and I loved my time there.

Response by SGT Eldred McPhail made Apr 30 at 2017 7:36 PM

SGT Eldred McPhail — Sun, 30 Apr 2017 19:36:17 -0400

I enjoyed Ft. Jackson a great deal! Matter of fact, if it hadn't been for Desert Storm, I was reassigned to the 1st Inf., I would have stayed there! Good luck!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 12 at 2017 5:35 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 12 Oct 2017 17:35:07 -0400

I tell you right now. The duty is rewarding but comes with long hours away from family. You become a better leader because you deal with daily soldiers scenarios that mirror FORSCOM.

Response by LCpl Frank Waninger made Oct 15 at 2017 11:44 AM

LCpl Frank Waninger — Sun, 15 Oct 2017 11:44:05 -0400

Paris island is only two hours away from home for me but I've heard San Diego is a shit hole. Either way the Marine Corps would find a way to make it shitty. Who gives a fuck.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2017 8:34 AM

A1C Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Oct 2017 08:34:09 -0400

Its like a nightmare seeing your MTIs over and over agian

Response by MCPO Jr Hawk made Oct 21 at 2017 10:26 AM

MCPO Jr Hawk — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 10:26:11 -0400

It's a tough job that must be done . We must, in many instances, go against our basic feelings in order to shock some of these young soldier "wannabes" in order to motivate them .

Response by SSG Andrew Shin made Oct 21 at 2017 5:46 PM

SSG Andrew Shin — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 17:46:13 -0400

Horrible

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2017 6:45 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 18:45:05 -0400

I almost got sent to Fort Sill OK to work in Lawton as an AGR Recruiter

Response by GySgt Robert Spears made Oct 21 at 2017 6:46 PM

GySgt Robert Spears — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 18:46:56 -0400

Best kept secret in the Corps. 13 long weeks but anywhere from 3 to 7 weeks off between platoons. Those off weeks were all libo and some training. Bonus...that duty (DI )sets your career on a great path and you learn real troop leading.

Response by SFC R R made Oct 21 at 2017 10:46 PM

SFC R R — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 22:46:29 -0400

Training post assignments are different than the "line unit", but it's what you make of it. As long as you take the opportunity for self improvement then you will set yourself up for success. Lastly, learn from your superiors and take that knowledge with you to your next unit.

Response by SFC Christopher Taggart made Oct 21 at 2017 11:09 PM

SFC Christopher Taggart — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 23:09:48 -0400

During my years in the military, I was assigned to Ft Knox, KY (1995-1998) in a training brigade and later at Ft Jackson, SC (2004-2005), also in one of the training brigades. I thought they were really good assignments, especially since I was not a DS, and a Sergeant at both posts. If you were a E-2 to E-4 in a training brigade, it seemed to be tougher trying to deal with Drill Sergeants, because a Private or a Specialist is STILL a Private or a Specialist at those posts.

Response by Amn Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2017 11:36 PM

Amn Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 23:36:28 -0400

It sucks especially at fort benning 30th ag

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2017 11:25 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 11:25:26 -0400

I was assigned to Fort Lee 2014-2016. It wasn't awful, and at first it was a nice break. After a few months I started to miss the pace of an operational assignment. If I could go back and do it again the only thing I would change would have been to take more advantage of the time. I could have easily completed my masters degree if I'd applied myself.

Response by SPC Daniel Martz made Oct 22 at 2017 1:41 PM

SPC Daniel Martz — Sun, 22 Oct 2017 13:41:50 -0400

Nerve wracking for about the first day then you just get in to a rhythm.

Response by Cpl James Higdon made Oct 23 at 2017 12:01 PM

Cpl James Higdon — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:01:05 -0400

I was one of the first to be at FLW with MarDet. MTOC. I have a lot of find memories of FLW. My God-daughter was born there in '96

Response by MSgt James Morgan Jr made Oct 23 at 2017 3:12 PM

MSgt James Morgan Jr — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 15:12:09 -0400

Like being on another world

Response by SP5 Alexander M. Sanchez made Oct 24 at 2017 11:14 AM

SP5 Alexander M. Sanchez — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 11:14:04 -0400

I OBSERVED THE JOB OF BEING A DRILL SERGEANT AND DECIDED, THAT'S FOR ME. I CAN DO IT. IF I APPLY MYSELF, I KNOW I CAN TRAIN SOLDIERS FOR A LIVING. I WAS ON THE TRAIL TO BECOMING A BONIFIDE DRILL SERGEANT. MY TRAVELS LEAD ME TO COMPETING FOR SOLDIER OF THE YEAR FOR ALL OF INFANTRY HILL, 7TH INFANTRY DIVISION.( 1982 ) THE CHAIN OF COMMAND BELIEVED IN ME AND I KEPT MY WORD, I SAID I WOULD DO IT.
AND A YEAR LATER, I WAS THE BEST OF INFANTRY HILL. TWO COMBAT INFANTRY BRIGADES, AT 7TH INFANTRY DIVISION. C COMPANY 2ND BATTALION,
32ND INFANTRY, THE BUCCANEERS OF THE FIGHTING 7TH INFANTRY DIVISION.
SO LONG FOLKS, HAVE A GREAT DAY. I CAN ONLY SHARE THIS WITH FELLOW VETERANS AND THOSE ON THE DRILL SERGEANT TRAIL, LIKE MYSELF

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2017 3:33 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 15:33:00 -0400

Cadre is the way to go. Easy life... now recruiting is where it gets ruff

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2017 5:25 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 17:25:13 -0400

The plus side, i am at the nexus of all things engineer and though im permanent party, and busy assisting instructors often times, my unit has the ability to send me to every school available for engineer specific training. Side benefit, my coworkers are nearly all instructors with years of experience, so im surrounded by knowledgeable nco's to learn from. Just stay out of trouble and the assignments are too bad. Negative: zero possibility to deploy unless i pcs

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 24 at 2017 9:38 PM

CPL Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 21:38:01 -0400

It's a little cool and a little annoying

Response by SFC Stan Whitlock made Oct 24 at 2017 10:07 PM

SFC Stan Whitlock — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 22:07:57 -0400

It's especially greueling when your company staffing is not filled. The early weeks of "total control" we're the absolute worse.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 12:24 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 00:24:36 -0400

I went to Benning for basic and got stationed there as my first duty station. Two totally different worlds. You just see a lot of bald heads with camel backs & eyepro on at the hospital

Response by SPC Brian Gross made Oct 25 at 2017 9:51 AM

SPC Brian Gross — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 09:51:57 -0400

I was stationed at Keller Hospital at USMA. Cadets and Brass everywhere. Weekend during football was worse. They shipped the ring knockers in by the busload.

Response by AN Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 25 at 2017 7:24 PM

AN Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 19:24:35 -0400

Blows. It's boring as hell.

Response by AN Kevin Grandjean made Oct 26 at 2017 5:27 PM

AN Kevin Grandjean — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 17:27:09 -0400

Not Army but USN is simular experience, you get out of it, what you put into it. It sets up tje disciline you need to need for the next 4,8, and 12 years. Keep an open mind, you are no longer White, Black, Hispanic.... You are US Army.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2017 8:12 PM

A1C Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 20:12:52 -0400

It really really sucks. Aetc was rough but when you get out, its like a job.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2017 8:20 PM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 20:20:48 -0400

It sucked pretty bad but I made it through.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 26 at 2017 11:07 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 23:07:28 -0400

Speaking for self it sucks, hours are crazy

Response by CPL Adam Carpenter made Oct 27 at 2017 6:56 PM

CPL Adam Carpenter — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 18:56:45 -0400

Fort Benning in the winter was cold in harmony church old wooden barracks, great learning for a young man

Response by SN DeAndre Johnson made Oct 27 at 2017 7:10 PM

SN DeAndre Johnson — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 19:10:21 -0400

It wasn’t too bad. You had to know your stuff though because that was the prime time you can expect to get tested on anything. It was a bit fun though to guess what you think was going to to happend when a RDC came into your compartment and how he was going to react with you.

Response by SGT Chris Stephens made Oct 27 at 2017 7:25 PM

SGT Chris Stephens — Fri, 27 Oct 2017 19:25:15 -0400

My first assignment out of AIT was at Fort Benning. As a print journalist, that meant I had to cover a lot of stories out on Sand Hill. I got mistaken for a basic training private a lot in the first year.

Response by SSG James Grice made Oct 28 at 2017 9:48 AM

SSG James Grice — Sat, 28 Oct 2017 09:48:47 -0400

i was at fort hood when we 1st armor ? when we ran 2 cycles of basic for viet nam replacements 1966 at that time i was e3 or e4 felt like a king with all the slick sleves around but did a lot of hours in the field with equipment traing

Response by SPC Justin Holten made Oct 28 at 2017 6:07 PM

SPC Justin Holten — Sat, 28 Oct 2017 18:07:00 -0400

I was assigned to HHB 434 FA at Fort Sill. That place was a joke. Our command was made up of guys either about to get promoted or retire. The town outside the gate was shit, and we never did any real training. No range, no road marches, nothing

Response by SSG Brandon Keylon made Oct 29 at 2017 8:13 AM

SSG Brandon Keylon — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 08:13:18 -0400

Fort banning isn't bad. When I was there the training side, sand hill never really interfered with anything

Response by PFC Eric Anthony made Oct 29 at 2017 11:45 AM

PFC Eric Anthony — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 11:45:30 -0400

I bet it sucks cuase u have to do things by traydoc regulations. Like on ft. Bliss we allowed to down grade. One of my sgts was from ft. Leonard wood. They arnt even allow to down grade. Only allow to cuff there sleaves.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 29 at 2017 5:55 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 17:55:35 -0400

Culture shock

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2017 1:07 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:07:31 -0400

Loved it

Response by SPC LeAnn Duncan made Oct 30 at 2017 1:21 AM

SPC LeAnn Duncan — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:21:36 -0400

Inprocessed basic training soldiers at FT. Benning for a couple of weeks. Leave your SGLI to your parents and ditch your girlfriend, sign here and go get your picture. No small talk, no eye contact. Really didn't have any other interactions.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2017 6:23 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 06:23:34 -0400

Can't tell you about a basic training post, but if it's anything like a post with large AIT schools, you'll have a lot of IET soldiers walking around that you aren't really supposed to interact with. You'll notice the barber shop, PX, food courts, etc are always packed because they can't go off post. The biggest downfall though is that appointments for things like dental, PHA, or to see someone about a medical issue, have to be booked well in advance. If its same day, the time slots to be seen always seem to be the most inconvenient haha.

Honestly though, my guess would be if its a basic training base, you'll have little to no interaction with them depending on your job.

Response by Natasha Hulme made Oct 30 at 2017 1:01 PM

Natasha Hulme — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 13:01:48 -0400

Night mare

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 30 at 2017 2:12 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 14:12:35 -0400

Well as some have stated, what will be your assignment. I have been assigned to a training unit and worked closely with Drill Sergeants and I have been assigned to a support unit and worked indirectly with Drill Sergeants. The key is treat all trainees, like what they are trainees, don't try to be their friend or get all buddy buddy with them. Do your job and all will be fine.

Response by LCpl Ishmael Callistro made Oct 30 at 2017 2:41 PM

LCpl Ishmael Callistro — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 14:41:03 -0400

No idea

Response by LCpl Ishmael Callistro made Oct 30 at 2017 2:42 PM

LCpl Ishmael Callistro — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 14:42:03 -0400

Hell

Response by PFC Thomas Murray made Oct 30 at 2017 4:36 PM

PFC Thomas Murray — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 16:36:02 -0400

Anxious..

Response by SSG Neil English made Oct 30 at 2017 7:16 PM

SSG Neil English — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 19:16:12 -0400

Nothing like Ft. Polk, nothing but giant mosquitoes and Diseaseville!!

Response by COL James Springer made Oct 30 at 2017 10:22 PM

COL James Springer — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 22:22:13 -0400

I was assigned to Training Command, Marksmanship Unit, at Ft. Polk, LA, in 1971-72 as a brand new 2LT. I can't say it was favorite assignment, but I didn't dislike either. If I had to say anything bad about it...it would be Ft. Polk in that particular time period. the post was isolated, most housing was off post, many of the facilities were still WWII vintage, and the surrounding communities were small with little to offer.

Response by SGT David Farrell made Oct 30 at 2017 10:28 PM

SGT David Farrell — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 22:28:51 -0400

Depends upon your training assignment. I was, at the time a Combat Engineer Training Sergeant, though originally trained as a 13E at Ft. Sill.

Response by PO2 Hank Kaczmarek made Oct 30 at 2017 10:52 PM

PO2 Hank Kaczmarek — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 22:52:56 -0400

Thanks to my recruit company commander (USN) I never found out. I was good enough, but He was right----Do you really want to spend 6 months of your career here pushing boots when you could be learning your rate and doing what you joined up for? So that was it for an Assistant Company Commander. In my days in the Navy, Hospital Corpsmen were not allowed to be Recruit Company Commanders---of course that rule has gone into the shitter too. But I sure would like to see some shit-hot FMF Corpsmen be able to instill a little extra discipline into recruits.

Response by LTC Denny Dobbins made Oct 30 at 2017 11:26 PM

LTC Denny Dobbins — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 23:26:43 -0400

unkownneverthatunluckey

Response by CPL Johnny Osborne made Oct 31 at 2017 3:41 AM

CPL Johnny Osborne — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 03:41:26 -0400

Fun but intense! Great time helping train the rookie's

Response by MAJ Ken Wallin made Oct 31 at 2017 5:51 AM

MAJ Ken Wallin — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 05:51:44 -0400

I commanded a BCT company at Ft Jackson from 87 -89. I was so immersed in that life I do not remember much of the time outside training new soldiers. My Drill Sergeants only calmed during cycle breaks. Quite an interesting assignment.

Response by CH (COL) Geoff Bailey made Oct 31 at 2017 7:41 AM

CH (COL) Geoff Bailey — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 07:41:59 -0400

SPC Private RallyPoint Member it’s great here at Jackson. One of the great reminders each week is family day. It reminds us that we are constantly integrating and training the next generation of leaders within the Army.

Response by PFC Michael Chappell made Oct 31 at 2017 10:12 AM

PFC Michael Chappell — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 10:12:09 -0400

I was assigned to Ft. Jackson, SC after doing 3 years in Germany. I re enlisted to change my MOS from 13B to 64C, Motor Transport operator. Germany was strict Military 1977 to 1980..so doing 'Stateside' was different. Ft. Jackson a training post both male and females..was..let's say challenging. No messing with the females Trainees...and the Permanent Party females..let's also say, they were not ready for a Prior Service Soldier such as myself. I rellay enjoyed my tour at Ft. Jackson.

Response by MSgt Robert Branscome made Oct 31 at 2017 10:21 AM

MSgt Robert Branscome — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 10:21:08 -0400

Entered marines in 59 went to Vietnam in 66 and then a Drill Instructor at Parris Island 68-71 Retired 79

Response by PO2 Patrick Aquia made Oct 31 at 2017 2:48 PM

PO2 Patrick Aquia — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 14:48:12 -0400

I was the last duty cook at USCG TRACEN CAPE MAY MAIN GALLEY . I secured on a Sunday night and on Monday morning the galley was crewed by civilians. It was the best duty i had as a CG cook. 2 days on 2 days off, every other weekend 3 days on. We were a world until ourselves.

Response by PO3 Doc Blalock made Oct 31 at 2017 6:21 PM

PO3 Doc Blalock — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 18:21:54 -0400

Served on Parris Island for several years at various billets and loved every minute of it!

Response by SGT Bill Doll made Oct 31 at 2017 6:38 PM

SGT Bill Doll — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 18:38:55 -0400

People think I am nutz when I tell them that basic training was the best summer vacation I ever had. I wanted to be there, was a goal in my life to be a soldier after my two uncles who where 30 yr career veterans. I had already graduated college, had my 24th Birthday during basic, was a squad leader, and trainee of the cycle.

Response by SP5 Brian Cunningham made Oct 31 at 2017 9:38 PM

SP5 Brian Cunningham — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 21:38:52 -0400

You can explain it all day, but until you go thru it-no idea!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2017 11:34 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 31 Oct 2017 23:34:58 -0400

Good man Capitan. A Senior Officer such as yourself is hard to find. Most officers I've dealt with had a different take on how things get done. Most of the time the clock ran slow. Thank you for your service

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2017 12:27 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 00:27:31 -0400

Honestly, what would be helpful would be having training cadre work shifts more akin to what fire EMS do. 24h straight or 2 days on and one day off. Even between cycles at Ft Jackson you have a lot of taskers to knock out.

Response by LCpl Doug Welling made Nov 1 at 2017 7:12 AM

LCpl Doug Welling — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 07:12:08 -0400

You were smart enough to listen to your SNCO. Sadly some butter bars think they know it all and sadder still too many of those never made 1LT as they didn't make it back to the World.

Response by SSG Joe DeRobbio made Nov 1 at 2017 8:29 AM

SSG Joe DeRobbio — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 08:29:23 -0400

Long hours but enjoyable in that you are teaching young people a strong way of life

Response by SFC Gary Fox made Nov 1 at 2017 8:48 AM

SFC Gary Fox — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 08:48:44 -0400

My son was a DS at Ft. Jackson for three years. He really enjoyed it.

Response by AN Jose Flores made Nov 1 at 2017 9:51 AM

AN Jose Flores — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 09:51:35 -0400

Simple words , it sucks! Hours of standing and playing home economics , folding ironing and marching , training is Chicago is a fucking joke , I learned more from my mother than the boot camp instructors !

Response by AN Jose Flores made Nov 1 at 2017 9:53 AM

AN Jose Flores — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 09:53:21 -0400

Oh must of the officers ( male ) are fucking stupid all they know how to do is scream , ps screaming doesn’t make u look smart it makes you and asshole

Response by SSG Dwight Fields made Nov 1 at 2017 10:09 AM

SSG Dwight Fields — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 10:09:53 -0400

Fort Knox 73-75. Lived it!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 1 at 2017 10:14 AM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 10:14:01 -0400

My Dad was Station at Ft. Knox from 62-69 except for a year in 67 and then again in 70 when he went to Vietnam, so I had grew up on the post. So when I enlisted I ended up taking Basic at Ft. Knox it wasn’t all that bad but it’s a different world looking at it from a different side.But them Hills sure sucked.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Nov 1 at 2017 11:40 AM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 11:40:51 -0400

As an officer you'll wear your right arm out! You may choose to not go anywhere in uniform that you don't have to. It's not that I don't want to return salutes, I know it's an honor, but to do it 25 times between the car and AAFES main store seems a little bit like a pain.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 2 at 2017 7:57 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 02 Nov 2017 07:57:06 -0400

Disciplined

Response by Cpl Franklin Holbrook made Jan 14 at 2018 11:31 PM

Cpl Franklin Holbrook — Sun, 14 Jan 2018 23:31:44 -0500

Tell me how you like that HOMOSEXUAL & TRANSGENDERED military ........oh, let’s not forget a woman who can’t even meet the same standards yelling at you or telling you what to do?

I don’t advise anyone to join the worlds largest homosexual military -it’s NOT the same. Stay out -get a good trade and start networking with good militant men and get armed.

Response by Cpl Franklin Holbrook made Jan 14 at 2018 11:48 PM

Cpl Franklin Holbrook — Sun, 14 Jan 2018 23:48:28 -0500

Stay out the HOMOSEXUAL & TRANSGENDER military.

Obtain a good skilled trade, network with militant and HONORABLE men and get armed.

Response by PFC Eric Stosius made Jan 18 at 2018 9:37 PM

PFC Eric Stosius — Thu, 18 Jan 2018 21:37:31 -0500

I was a 3311 at MCRD San Diego in 1984/85, nothing but a big Grinder. That you weren't allowed to walk across to get to the chow hall at 0300, always someone watching and they would give you hell about it too. Work till 1900, have he next day off. Which was good, cause if you have any money you would be in Tijuana but 2200. Wake up in the rack the next morning by some rude SSgt wondering why you still in the rack when everyone else is field-daying. At least you were in sunny California.
Next day you would fall out, then go to class room where you would fill out cooks worksheets for the 2500 or so dinks that needed to be fed at each meal. After you caught hell for crossing the parade ground. When that was completed we would be shown how to fold our skivvies for the umpteenth time for the next wall locker inspection. The only time you got a weekend was when your turn came on a Friday, so you had to double up everything on classroom day.
Then there was the Brass the Congressmen and the ROK Marine Colonel who would only eat alone, he packed his own china too. And the BAMS would kiss ass there way to the top!

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made Jan 21 at 2018 1:56 PM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 13:56:44 -0500

Having been at Fort Sill as Active Duty, and near Fort Jackson as a member of the National Guard, I can say you tend to stay clear of the Trainee area. Now if you have any grade E-5 and up be prepared to have people yell "at ease" near the PX, Clothing Sales, and any place the two sides meet. Now don't get stupid and decide to frack with a trainee, I can think of no faster way of meeting multiple Sergeant Majors all in short order (a guy at Fort Sill did just that, he wasn't an NCO much longer, but that was 1986).

Response by SPC Jay Streich made Jan 21 at 2018 10:33 PM

SPC Jay Streich — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 22:33:39 -0500

Funny story.... I was assigned to field artillery battalion at Ft. Knox. Once, during an FTX, I was on perimeter guard with a friend of mine. We were just inside the treeline, behind a fallen tree with a road a short distance to our front. A company of basic trainees came road marching past. One of them noticed us and said, "You better watch out, I got my M16!" My friend said, "Oh yeah, well I have a BFR." The trainee asked, "What's a BFR?" My friend replied, "It's a big fucking rock, now get the hell out of here!"

Response by SGT Steven Levene made May 8 at 2020 4:12 PM

SGT Steven Levene — Fri, 08 May 2020 16:12:50 -0400

I spent a few years at Fort Sill, OK. As long as you stayed west of the railroad tracks and out of the PX on the the weekends, you rarely saw trainees.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2020 4:19 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 08 May 2020 16:19:13 -0400

It’s all what you make of it at every duty station. I was stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood for four years and we loved it. We lived on an acre of land where we could go target shooting in the backyard. I bought a boat and restored it, then took it to Lake of the Ozarks every weekend for three summers. While countless people were always standing around bitching about “how bad this place sucks”, I got in the best shape of my life and finished my AA and BS degrees, then got promoted to SFC.

Every duty station has possibilities for recreation, personal growth, and career development. It’s all about how much effort is put forward while efficiently managing time.

Response by SPC Phillip Vossler made May 8 at 2020 4:25 PM

SPC Phillip Vossler — Fri, 08 May 2020 16:25:24 -0400

During my brief 6 year 4 month and 10 day active duty Career, i was Stationed at Ft Eustis. Or Useless as we called it. I served from 98-05. I never had the BCT aspect to worry about. I did however have to deal with the AIT aspect. At that time the Transportation school was still there, and the Aviation MOS's. As a young soldier there, i always thought being FORSCOM, on a TRADOC post was a pain in the ass. Looking back on that experience, many years later, i don't see why i felt that way, it simply was what it was. I never bothered them, and they never bothered me, however on occasion when i saw they were fucking up, i had no problems in administering "friendly" advice, which was rare. I was an 88H, so i went to AIT there also. My aggravations about that post had little to do with the AIT folks, as it did with being too close to DC, and being stuck on grass cutting detail. At a month at a time, i spent 1 full year cutting grass at Useless.

Response by SFC Francisco Rosario made May 9 at 2020 4:42 AM

SFC Francisco Rosario — Sat, 09 May 2020 04:42:25 -0400

This also includes any military installation that has students on “After Initial Training” AIT for those in the Army. At times you feel like students have more power and authority than those who in charge or conducting the training. I have known some to actually fear students.

Response by PFC Eric Stosius made Jun 28 at 2021 9:03 PM

PFC Eric Stosius — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 21:03:07 -0400

MCRD SanDiego was great place to live but a not so great place to be stationed. Too many Senators and other dignitaries around all the time. 3381 was a major job there 40 years ago crazy hours, rarely two days off in a row. Early mornings late evenings. Short trip to Tijuana. Motor T guys had it much better.

Response by SFC Kevin Stampfly made Oct 21 at 2021 8:03 PM

SFC Kevin Stampfly — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 20:03:14 -0400

Overcrowded px, food courts and barbershops on the weekends. Hell nowadays it's all throughout the week.

Response by LTC Warren Miller made Dec 17 at 2021 4:19 PM

LTC Warren Miller — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 16:19:14 -0500

I enlisted into a USAR Drill Sergeant unit and did two AT’s with them to Benning. Every time I heard a DI yell “DROP” I was half way to the front leaning rest. Later, as an officer, I often found myself on various training bases. I avoided the training areas but found myself having to do a lot of on-the-spot-corrections at the PX and food courts. And once had one politely and accurately correct me for a trailing bootlace…which if I recall the kid got coined by my accompanying CSM because my CSM hadn’t seen it. Made that kids day…twice.