FORT KNOX, Ky. – Cadets from 4th Regiment, Advanced Camp, completed group and zero at Fort Knox, Ky., June 22, 2023. Cadets had magazines filled with 30 rounds of 5.56 millimeter ammunition and shot 5 rounds at a time in a tight shot group. Then they adjusted their M68 close combat optic sight on their M4 rifle to move the shot group to the center of the target. These adjustments are important because they prepare Cadets to be ready for the individual weapon qualification tomorrow.

For many Cadets this is their first time group and zeroing. Two Cadets gave advice on how to do well on this event.

Cadet Shelby Davinroy from Loyola University said that she joined the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps because she wanted to be an officer.

When on the range, Davinroy mentions what she does to help her stay focused.

“Stick to yourself and do what works for you. Focus on breathing and making sure your mind is turned off because the less thinking you do, the better you’re getting,” Davinroy said. “I just try to think as least as possible, take what I want from what people say, and the rest is just all me.”

Cadet Isabella White from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University said that she joined ROTC because she always wanted to go into the Army whether it be the enlisted or officer side. She said both of her parents were in the Army and she felt that it was her time.

On the wall of the bleachers, there’s a big sign reading, “BEFORE YOU FIRE, Think: Breathe, Relax, Aim, and Squeeze”. 

When going through a third round of shooting, White mentions what she thinks about when shooting. 

“I just tried to think about my breathing and calming down because a lot of people being at the range makes them nervous. I don’t blame them because there’s a lot of things going on, but you kind of have to focus on yourself, your breathing, what you’re doing and focus on calming your breath,” White said. “So you want to be a rock.”