FORT KNOX Ky. – Cadets from the 10th Regiment, Advanced Camp, completed their Rappel Tower training at Fort Knox, Ky., July 28, 2023.
The 64-foot Rappel Tower teaches Cadets to trust in their equipment and themselves to descend the tower. Cadets learn to be confident and brave when faced with the challenges presented at this training event.
Cadet Kade Blackwell from Tarleton State University in Dallas, Tx, shares his thoughts on the Rappel Tower.
“I was pretty confident at this event, and I knew most of the process for the rappel tower,” Blackwell said. “It is exciting to jump off the tower to swing back and land on it again, and the whole experience was enjoyable.”
Cadets are instructed to lean away from the tower, with their legs extended in order to rappel. They also conduct a 4-point safety check to make sure all their equipment is secure as they bound down the tower, towards the belayers.
“The Cadre up there executed it fast, and they made sure safety was the first priority,” Blackwell stated. “If you have a positive mindset and are ready to learn, it makes the process easier for you and your leaders.”
Cadet David Burdine was also excited to participate in the Rappel Tower training.
“It’s fun to accomplish something you don’t normally do,” Burdine explained. “This event teaches Cadets to try new things and go through fear.”
Listening to instruction and being open to new experiences allows Cadets to grow into U.S. Army leaders in the future by participating in events like the Rappel Tower.
“This event allows you to come outside of your comfort zone, and grow as a person,” Burdine said. “Rappelling is an important skill in, not just the Army, but in your life, and if you don’t take risks to learn skills on the basis of fear, it’s harder to find success.”
Many Cadets are afraid to rappel down the 64-foot tower. Cadre explained to the Cadets that this event must be completed to advance in their training.
“Everyone is going to be afraid at some point in the Army, but you will be with your friends and your squad, which helps you overcome these challenges together,” Burdine stated. “When you have a plan and people to encourage you, it is easier to achieve your goals.”
