FORT KNOX, Ky. – Cadets from the 3rd Regiment, Advanced Camp, practice their shooting accuracy gushing an engagement skills trainer at Fort Knox, Ky., June 16, 2023. Here, they get the opportunity to learn about their weapons.
Similarly, Cadet Landon Dugas, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, is in the same regiment as Smith. Dugas comes from a military family, and he has decided to follow in the footsteps of his father.
During training, they learn different skills such as shooting positions, changing magazines, and practice using their sights. The sight produces a red dot on the targeted area, ideally providing for better accuracy. This training prepares them for the live virtual shooting simulator where they aim to get a minimum of 23 out of 40 on the target.
Cadet Mary Smith, University of Texas at El Paso, is an aspiring nurse for the military. She was fortunate enough to receive a scholarship for the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program.
“I thought it was a gift from God,” Smith said. “I thought God wanted me in the Army, so now here I am.”
“My dad is an officer and part of the Louisiana National Guard,” said Dugas. “I am also getting commission from the same school he went to.”
Coming from a line of military family, Dugas has had previous training coming into this event. He went to basic training for the National Guard followed up with annual training.
Throughout the building, various stations are set up that the Cadets rotate between. Each station teaches practical shooting techniques. Both Cadets underwent the necessary training at EST and experienced the virtual shooting simulator.
This fast-paced environment can prove difficult, but neither faltered. Smith reflected on her progress and the challenges she faced.
“I was worried because I couldn’t fix my rifle right, and the guy had to come over and help me, and I fixed it,” Smith said.
After they got comfortable and ran a few practice rounds, it was time for the real thing where the Cadets were evaluated for the number of hits on the target out of 40.
“Surprisingly, I got 35 out of 40, so I feel really proud of myself,” Smith said.
Likewise, Dugas also shot above the minimum, receiving a score of 30 out of 40 hits.
This is meant as a learning experience rather than a competition amongst each other. Taking a step back to review, both Cadets have used this experience to better themselves.
Dugas used this as a refresher and extra practice since he already has a firm grip on what they accomplished today.
In contrast to Dugas, Smith doesn’t have as much experience, “I’m really excited to be here and learn how to shoot, and all the Cadre are really nice, and they don’t make you feel dumb for not knowing.”
Going forward into Cadet Summer Training, both Smith and Dugas have things they are ready to do.
“I’d say the gas chamber because when I went to basic training, it was during COVID, so I didn’t get the full experience,” Dugas said.
On the other hand, Smith mentioned a different training event, “I’m really nervous about the rappel tower, but that’s definitely going to be an experience that will be worth it in the end.”
