Getting Ready for the Challenge of a Lifetime
Congratulations on taking the first step towards serving your country! Fort Benning is one of the most prestigious training facilities in the US Army, and completing Basic Training here is a badge of honor. As you prepare to embark on this journey, it’s essential to understand what lies ahead and how to prepare yourself for the challenges that await. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to survive and thrive during Basic Training at Fort Benning.
Before You Ship Out
Before you leave for Fort Benning, make sure you’re physically and mentally prepared for the rigors of Basic Training. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Physical Conditioning: Start a workout routine that includes cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. You should be able to run 2 miles in under 15 minutes, do 30 push-ups in 1 minute, and complete 30 sit-ups in 1 minute.
- Mental Preparation: Get your mind ready for the challenge ahead. Practice meditation, deep breathing exercises, and positive self-talk to help you stay focused and motivated.
- Admin Tasks: Take care of any administrative tasks, such as setting up automatic bill payments, notifying your bank and credit card companies, and arranging for someone to take care of your pets or plants while you’re away.
Packing for Basic Training
When it comes to packing for Basic Training, it’s essential to bring only the essentials. Here’s a list of things you should bring:
- Clothing:
- 3-4 pairs of underwear and socks
- 2-3 pairs of comfortable workout clothes
- 1-2 pairs of dress shoes
- 1-2 dress uniforms
- Toiletries:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Soap
- Electronics:
- Phone and charger
- Laptop and charger (optional)
- Camera (optional)
- Important Documents:
- ID and insurance cards
- Birth certificate
- Social Security card
📝 Note: Make sure to check with your recruiter or the US Army website for a comprehensive list of items to bring and prohibited items.
Basic Training Schedule
Basic Training at Fort Benning typically lasts for 10 weeks, divided into three phases: Red, White, and Blue. Here’s an overview of what you can expect during each phase:
- Red Phase (Weeks 1-3): During this phase, you’ll focus on building your physical fitness, learning military protocol, and getting familiar with your equipment.
- White Phase (Weeks 4-5): In this phase, you’ll start learning basic combat skills, such as first aid, map reading, and combat techniques.
- Blue Phase (Weeks 6-10): This final phase focuses on advanced combat skills, such as live-fire exercises and simulated combat scenarios.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to help you succeed during Basic Training:
- Stay Motivated: Remind yourself why you enlisted, and keep your goals in mind.
- Listen and Learn: Pay attention to your drill sergeants and instructors, and take their feedback seriously.
- Stay Positive: Surround yourself with positive people, and try to stay upbeat even in tough situations.
- Take Care of Yourself: Make sure to eat well, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Stay Organized | Keep your gear and living space clean and organized to avoid losing items and getting penalized. |
| Communicate with Your Drill Sergeants | If you're struggling with something, don't be afraid to ask for help or guidance from your drill sergeants. |
| Take Care of Your Feet | Make sure to wear proper fitting shoes and socks, and take care of any blisters or foot injuries promptly. |
Life After Basic Training
After completing Basic Training, you’ll be assigned to Advanced Individual Training (AIT) or your first duty assignment. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- AIT: AIT is specialized training that teaches you the skills you need to perform your specific job in the Army.
- First Duty Assignment: Your first duty assignment will be your first taste of life as a soldier. Make sure to stay focused, learn as much as you can, and take care of yourself.
As you prepare to embark on this journey, remember that Basic Training is just the beginning. Stay focused, motivated, and committed, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in the US Army.
What is the typical day like during Basic Training?
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A typical day during Basic Training starts at 0500 hours with morning reveille. You’ll then attend formation, followed by physical training, breakfast, and classes or training exercises throughout the day.
How do I stay in touch with my loved ones during Basic Training?
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You’ll have limited access to phones and email during Basic Training. You can send letters and care packages to your loved ones, and they can also send them to you.
What happens if I fail Basic Training?
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If you fail Basic Training, you’ll be given the opportunity to retrain or be administratively separated from the Army.
