By: Mattie Cook
FORT KNOX, KY.,- Forest Hills Climbing Complex has been buzzing with Cadets all summer long, but today was their last day of operation for Cadet Summer Training as 8th Regiment, Basic Camp Cadets conquered their fears and the course.
Cadet Judy Senesabath, University of Tennessee Knoxville, conquers a climbing tower at the Forest Hills Climbing Complex on Fort Knox, Ky., Aug. 10, 2017. (Photo by Mattie Cook)
Ziplining, low crawling, climbing and hanging; Cadets spent their last day of training before graduation encouraging each other and conquering their fear of heights.
Cadet Judy Senesabath, University of Tennessee Knoxville said as a climber, communication with her belayer was key.
“The belayer is not only like a safety but they guide you, letting you know where you can put your hands and feet to make the next move,” Senesabath said.
The role between belayer and climber can be expanded to the role Cadets will face as a future Army officer. These Cadets will lead soldiers and be responsible for showing them the way through tough situations, even if their soldiers can only see one move at a time. It will be their job to help their soldiers see the bigger picture, instilling confidence that they can meet their objective.
“I needed that clear and concise communication because I can only see what’s in front of me, while they have all sights on the entire obstacle where I need to put my feet or hands and entire body,” said Senesabath. “It was very important for me that they had sights on the entire objective.
Cadet Lindsey Pulverenti, University of Central Florida, is new to ROTC but said she feels prepared after going through Basic Camp.
Cadet Lindsey Pulverenti, University of Central Florida, conquers the confidence course at the Forest Hills Climbing Complex on Fort Knox, Ky., Aug. 10, 2017. (Photo by Mattie Cook)
“I definitely feel more confident now to go back to University and getting ready for Advanced Camp. I haven’t been in ROTC very long so this was my first Army training, but I’m excited to move forward,” said Pulverenti.
8th Regiment, Basic Camp Cadets will return to their respective Universities to continue their education and ROTC programs, then back to Fort Knox for Advanced Camp next summer. After their graduation tomorrow, only two regiments remain at Cadet Summer Training 2017, scheduled to wrap up August 16.
