By: Savoury Jacobson.
FORT KNOX, KY. –Basic Camp, Third Regiment Cadets, took to the field on June 23, 2017, to learn introduction into small unit tactics in Fort Knox, Kentucky.
“Cadet Smith described training as, “Cadets are learning individual movement techniques, learning how to low crawl, high crawl. They’re also learning to react to contact.”
A Basic Camp Cadet kneels to reload his magazine with blanks during introduction to small unit tactics. (Photo by Breanne Ward.)
Cadets moved up a field of lanes where these different movements techniques were practiced throughout the day. Teams of two learned how to work together and provide cover for each other under fighting conditions, such as simulated smoke and enemy fire. Face painting took place as well, highlighting the importance for concealment as well as cover.
Sergeant First Class, Gene Ray, described the training as practicing,
“Hand and arm signals, how to move as a buddy team, how to move in a defensive posture, and when to get up…when to move [and] how to cover their [battle] buddy.”
Buddy team movement is important for Cadets to learn because it is the most basic form of maneuvering, closing with and destroying enemy forces.
Laying prone in the field, a Cadet checks his battle buddy for cover confirmation before moving forward. (Photo by Breanne Ward.)
Field sanitation training also took place, preparing the future soldiers for disease and illness in combat which is more of a risk overseas than is often realized.
Introduction into small unit tactics prepares the Basic Camp Cadet for conflict and working together with their teammates to conquer whatever challenges may face them in the future.
Cadet Summer Training will bring an estimated 8,200 Cadets through Basic and Advanced Camp this summer on Fort Knox. These camps are designed to help challenge, grow and improve various skills and leadership qualities within the Cadets. If you think you have what it takes to be a Cadet or if you are interested in a job after college click the following link: https://my.goarmy.com/info/rotc1/index.jsp?iom=IP08-AUTO-R1NA-BR-XXX-XX-XXX-MO-XX-X-BRCMAC:IP08
