FORT KNOX, Ky. – 3rd Regiment, Advanced Camp Cadets participated in the engagement skills trainer during Cadet Summer Training at Fort Knox, Ky., June 18, 2023. The EST is a virtual shooting simulator that allows Cadets to practice their shooting accuracy before qualifying their weapons later during CST.

During this training, Cadets participate in different exercises that help them practice changing M4 carbine magazines and moving between the four proper firing positions. The four firing positions are kneeling, standing and prone (supported and unsupported).

It is important for Cadets to know how to perform these positions before qualifying their weapons at the range.

Since he was a part of CST Basic Camp last summer, Cadet Zack Hendricks from Grand Canyon University is familiar with the EST. Hendricks explains how the EST is beneficial for Cadets before they qualify.

“The EST range actually lets us simulate the [qualification] range,” Henricks said. “While it’s not the same as live firing, it still has the [carbon dioxide] backfire, so it gives us a small taste of what it’s like to actually shoot.”

Cadet Tiffany Jones from Georgia Southern University has handled practice rifles before, but this is her first time trying the EST. Jones explains why the EST is important.

“I think [EST]’s important, because as a leader, your people are going to expect you to know the standard,” Jones said. “If you don’t know at least the bare minimum, how can you expect them to be qualified?”

One of the Cadre, 2nd Lt. Anthony Nasharr, talks about what he thinks Cadets should take away from EST.

“I think the greatest take-away Cadets should have from today is that there’s a wealth of knowledge that they have amongst themselves.” Nasharr said. “Us Cadre, we’re here to help for sure, but they need to rely on their battle buddies to teach them lessons, but also to have the humility to learn lessons from others.”

CST Cadets look forward to qualifying at the range later this week.