Combat Jobs in the Army: Top Roles for Soldiers
The United States Army offers a wide range of combat jobs for soldiers who are willing to serve on the front lines. These roles require courage, strength, and strategic thinking, and are essential to the success of the Army’s mission. In this article, we will explore the top combat jobs in the Army, including their responsibilities, requirements, and benefits.
Infantryman (11X)
The infantryman is one of the most iconic combat jobs in the Army. These soldiers are responsible for engaging and defeating enemy forces in close combat, using a variety of tactics and techniques to outmaneuver and overpower their opponents. Infantrymen are trained to operate in a variety of environments, from urban warfare to jungle and desert combat.
Responsibilities: - Engage and defeat enemy forces in close combat - Conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions - Operate and maintain a variety of infantry equipment, including rifles, machine guns, and grenades
Requirements: - High school diploma or equivalent - Completion of Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) - Physical fitness test (PFT) score of 240 or higher
Armor Crewman (19K)
Armor crewmen are responsible for operating and maintaining the Army’s fleet of tanks and other armored vehicles. These soldiers play a critical role in supporting infantry units and providing heavy firepower on the battlefield.
Responsibilities: - Operate and maintain tanks and other armored vehicles - Conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions - Engage and defeat enemy forces using tank-mounted weaponry
Requirements: - High school diploma or equivalent - Completion of BCT and AIT - PFT score of 240 or higher
Field Artilleryman (13B)
Field artillerymen are responsible for operating and maintaining the Army’s artillery systems, including cannons, howitzers, and rocket launchers. These soldiers play a critical role in supporting infantry units and providing long-range firepower on the battlefield.
Responsibilities: - Operate and maintain artillery systems - Conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions - Engage and defeat enemy forces using artillery firepower
Requirements: - High school diploma or equivalent - Completion of BCT and AIT - PFT score of 240 or higher
Special Forces (18X)
Special forces soldiers, also known as Green Berets, are elite combat troops who are trained to conduct unconventional warfare and counterterrorism missions. These soldiers are highly skilled in languages, cultural awareness, and advanced combat tactics.
Responsibilities: - Conduct unconventional warfare and counterterrorism missions - Train and advise foreign military forces - Conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions
Requirements: - High school diploma or equivalent - Completion of BCT, AIT, and Special Forces Qualification Course - PFT score of 260 or higher
💡 Note: Special forces soldiers must also pass a rigorous selection process, known as the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) course.
Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Specialist (89D)
EOD specialists are responsible for disposing of explosive devices, including bombs, mines, and other hazardous materials. These soldiers play a critical role in supporting combat operations and keeping troops safe from explosive threats.
Responsibilities: - Dispose of explosive devices - Conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions - Operate and maintain EOD equipment
Requirements: - High school diploma or equivalent - Completion of BCT and AIT - PFT score of 240 or higher
Benefits of Combat Jobs in the Army
Combat jobs in the Army offer a range of benefits, including:
- Education and Training: The Army provides comprehensive training and education programs for soldiers in combat jobs, including language training, cultural awareness, and advanced combat tactics.
- Career Advancement: Combat jobs in the Army offer opportunities for career advancement and promotion, including leadership roles and specialized training.
- Camaraderie: Combat soldiers often form strong bonds with their fellow soldiers, which can last a lifetime.
- Sense of Purpose: Combat soldiers play a critical role in defending their country and its interests, which can give them a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment.
What is the most physically demanding combat job in the Army?
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The most physically demanding combat job in the Army is often considered to be the infantryman (11X). Infantrymen are required to carry heavy packs, operate in challenging environments, and engage in close combat, which can be extremely physically demanding.
Do combat jobs in the Army require special training?
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Yes, combat jobs in the Army require specialized training. Soldiers in combat jobs must complete Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), as well as other specialized training programs, such as language training and cultural awareness.
What are the most common injuries in combat jobs?
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The most common injuries in combat jobs include musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains and strains, as well as traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
In conclusion, combat jobs in the Army offer a range of challenging and rewarding roles for soldiers who are willing to serve on the front lines. From infantrymen to special forces soldiers, these roles require courage, strength, and strategic thinking, and are essential to the success of the Army’s mission. Whether you’re looking for a sense of purpose, career advancement opportunities, or simply the chance to serve your country, combat jobs in the Army may be the right fit for you.
