Last Updated: June 30th, 2021By

Fort Knox, Ky. – Cadets from 10th Regiment, Advanced Camp learned first aid at Heard Park, July 23.

The Army teaches Advanced Camp Cadets the basics of Tactical Combat Casualty Care while at camp. After they commission as second lieutenants they will receive more in-depth medical training.

Cadets are instructed in first aid and combat life saving techniques at Fort Knox, Ky., July 23, 2019. | Photo by Tristan Pilch, Public Affairs Office

Cadet Nicholas Newel, Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis, was a prior enlisted soldier participating in training.

“We are going over how to stop the bleeding,” Newel said, “and how to save someone’s life. That is the overall goal.”

After going through the large group lecture Cadets were split into groups of five. Newel was the first in his group to go through the practical hands-on training.

“It’s a little hard to always remember everything off-hand,” he said, “but my friends were there to help me if I forgot something.”

The training is designed to reduce fatalities on the battle field. Blood loss is the number one cause of fatalities in tactical environments at about 80 percent. Research also indicates that 90 percent of death, occur before a casualty reaches a medical center.

Cadets are tested in first aid and combat life saving techniques at Fort Knox, Ky., July 23, 2019. | Photo by Tristan Pilch, Public Affairs Office

This is why the Army has pushed for basic medical training for all Soldiers including Cadets.

“When we get to be lieutenants we will be out in the field and you never know what the situation is going to end up being,” said Cadet Caitlin Salefski, Illinois State University. “In order to feel safe and have your Soldiers to feel safe around you, you need to be able to help them if they get hurt and you want them to be able to help you if you get hurt. Everyone needs to know how to take care of each other.”

Cadets are expected to complete this must pass event and for those wanting Recondo they must receive a first time go to remain eligible.

Cadets from 10th Regiment also participated in the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear training where they learned the importance of their chemical gear and felt the effects of tear-gas. They will enter the field to begin preparing for their FTX July, 23.