FORT KNOX, Ky.—History is defined by Merriam-Webster Dictionary as the whole series of past events connected with someone or something. Cadets of 6th Regiment, Basic Camp, learned July 8 that there is much depth to the Army’s history that relates to each and every one of them.
2LT Olivia Combs, Slippery Rock University, helped to instruct Cadets on Army as a profession and assisted with the Army History class.
Cadets of 6th Regiment, Basic Camp underwent Army History training on July 8.
“We want to establish a knowledge for the Cadets to understand the difference between joining the Army as a profession and being a professional and expert in their field as opposed to being just a job.” said Combs.
She expressed her belief that the ‘just a job’ mindset is coming to work every day, doing a job and getting a paycheck, but she also shared her belief that having a profession in the Army means being a soldier and a leader 24/7, as it has been all throughout history.
“To me, leadership is an influence that you have on someone else. They can understand that that’s the kind of person that they want to be, and they follow you and trust you.” said Combs.
During the Army History class, Cadets learned that the Army outdates our country itself, America is 241 years old and the Army is 242 years old this year. 2LT Morgan Menaker, Virginia Military Institute, also assisted with the training and hoped to use these teachings to shape the minds of Cadets before they commissioned as officers.
“Yesterday and today we are, in my mind, shaping the way they think. We are trying to make them think through the Army lens.” shared Menaker. “We are going through the core competencies, leadership values and just shaping the beginnings of hopefully what will become an Army officer.”
6th Regiment, Basic Camp, Cadets listened intently and were advised to take notes during Army History training on July 8.
Menaker advises Cadets to be all in when it comes to ROTC. ROTC training gives a good experience for those who are still trying to decide on whether joining the Army is the best decision for them as well as those who are confident in their choices.
“It’s like a good feel.” Expressed Menaker. “So I would say, if you’re going to try, try with all you have.”
Menaker also shared that he believes that ROTC was a great experience for him personally. He gained confidence and leadership ability and dismissed all fears that he previously had.
Cadet Summer Training will bring 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
