FORT KNOX Ky. – Cadets from 2nd Regiment, Basic Camp, completed their training at the Forest Hills Climbing Complex on Fort Knox, Ky., July 22, 2023.
The FHCC is a series of high obstacles that focuses on confidence and having trust in the climbing equipment for each course. It is composed of the Alpine Towers, The Rudders Ropes Course, and a rock-climbing wall.
Cadet Lydia Sleeman, Allegheny College, shares her thoughts on the ropes course portion of the training.
“I liked it, even though there were some scary parts of the course,” Sleeman stated. “I think the worst part for me was walking on the plank when there wasn’t any safety, but after that, it was fun; especially the zipline at the end.”
The Rudder’s Ropes Course has a portion where Cadets must leap onto a net and climb to the first high obstacle without safety gear attached. Cadre act as safety on the ground and help Cadets to start the obstacle.
“Because I didn’t have a safety, I was definitely second guessing myself,” Sleeman said. “I was trying to put my hands down for support, but I just collected myself and walked across, and it after that it was a lot easier to complete.”
Cadets build confidence in themselves by following directions, without hesitation. They also learn to trust their safety equipment, which allows them to overcome fears and continue moving forward.
“This event builds confidence in yourself and it builds confidence in your equipment,” Sleeman said. “You get to enhance your leadership skills and become a huge family because everyone is here for the same reason.”
Cadet Isabella Hernandez, New Mexico State University, was also slightly nervous about the high ropes course.
“At first, I had beginners’ jitters, but I loved the swing section of the course and when I had to lay down and cross the rope,” Hernandez stated. “It definitely pushes everyone past their comfort-zone so that we could learn to overcome any obstacle in the future.”
Cadets at each course learn different ways to approach the obstacles before them. Each challenges Cadets physically and mentally to overcome their fears and become confident in themselves, their peers, equipment and their Cadre.
“This course pushes people past the limits they thought they had, and it tests them physically and mentally,” Hernandez stated. “It’s important to stay strong but also have fun.”
