Trudging through the mud and ducking under thick branches, the Cadets of 2nd Regiment, Basic Camp spent the morning of July 18, 2021 in the forests of Fort Knox, Ky. doing their Buddy Team Land Navigation training. The purpose: teaching Basic Camp Cadets how to use maps, compasses, and other simple objects to find precise locations in rough, off-road terrain. Cadets were sent out in small teams with the objective of finding pre-placed posts hidden in the forest, marking the locations, and returning to base camp for evaluation within a limited time frame. 2nd Regiment took this training with a fair [...]

1st Regiment, Advanced Camp Cadets spent their day learning about fire and maneuver techniques at Fort Knox, Ky. on May 30, 2021.  Cadets learned techniques on how to effectively move through a field with barricades, logs and wire, all while trying to carry their rifle and maintain safety of themselves and their partner, otherwise known as their battle buddy.  The purpose of the exercise is to help Cadets get comfortable with high-stress situations and also know how to move under real fire when in combat.  Cadre use a go and no go system to test Cadets. “Go” means that they passed [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky. — 6th Regiment, Advanced Camp Cadets attended Branch Orientation, a time where the different branches of the Army hold informational briefs to showcase different career paths, July 21 during Cadet Summer Training. “They’re just giving us an overview of career paths that we can choose from along with guard and reserve options. Basically, we get to active, reserve, and guard officers about what they do and it helps us figure out what we want to do,” explained Cadet Austin Pfennig, Eastern Washington University. Cadets glean new information as they visit each branch’s tent and listen to the Cadre [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky. — 1st Regiment, Basic Camp performed Field Training Exercises in their “run” phase July 14 during Cadet Summer Training. The “run” phase of an exercise consists of cadre taking a step back and providing feedback during the exercise when absolutely necessary to Cadets. The exercise Cadets from Alpha company, 3rd platoon, 3rd squad performed was an ambush. “We just conducted an ambush on the objective, which was a linear ambush on the road. We had two enemy and were a squad element. We were directed by our squad leader to form up and I was on Bravo Team, [...]

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12Zw73W0L-M[/embedyt] Sun beaming down, heat category rising, Cadets from the 8th Regiment, Delta Co., of Advanced Camp were training for Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC3) nonetheless. Monday morning, July 1, brought 8th Regiment Cadets their first real day of Advanced Camp training. In-processing over with, it was time to get into the nitty gritty of the U.S. Army. TC3 brought them that grit. How to Save a Life “We do a scenario where they take fire and their battle buddy goes down,” Lt. Col. Danielle Rodondi, professor of military science at Augusta University and the Officer in Charge (OIC) for [...]

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TmwTXuMlbI[/embedyt] FORT KNOX, Ky. – 3rd Regiment, Advanced Camp Cadets enhanced their tactical skills and defense strategies at their Field Training Exercise, FTX, June 30 during Cadet Summer Training. The first two objectives, including gathering intelligence and performing reconnaissance on the base as well as capturing the base from the opposing forces, were executed with precision, according to Capt. Talisa Dauz. “They knocked it out of the park. It’s probably one of the best missions we’ve done so far,” said Dauz. “Once they attacked the enemy, they were able to seize this terrain and the mission. They are currently on [...]

  Forty United States Military Academy (USMA) Cadets arrived at Fort Knox, Kentucky to join the hundreds of Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Cadets of 1st Regiment earlier this month. The West Point Cadets trudged through a heavy rainstorm upon arrival, adding to the apprehension of spending two weeks alongside 1st Regiment for the Field Training Exercise (FTX) portion of Advanced Camp. The ROTC Cadets had already spent over two weeks at Cadet Summer Training (CST) working and training together. For the first time in history, USMA at West Point Cadets were integrated with those ROTC Cadets during Advanced Camp. The [...]

Cadets from Advanced Camp, 4th Regiment, Delta Company took part in the Field Leadership Reaction Course (FLRC) to build camaraderie and leadership skills within their platoons. Sgt. 1st Class Benjamin Hankins, who is a member of Cadet Command, explained the course. He said, “Field Leadership Reaction Course is (several) obstacles designed to challenge squad sized cadets. They will take turns in leadership positions. The intention is to challenge and make them work together for teamwork, communication, adaptability, and decision-making.” Hankins shared his advice for the Cadets, “A good plan executed violently right after planning phase is better than a perfect plan [...]

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Na9yhkK8pUQ[/embedyt] FORT KNOX, Ky. – Hundreds of Cadets of 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp simulated different combat scenarios early this morning in preparation for their upcoming Field Training Exercise (FTX). The FTX is a vital part of Advanced Camp for these Cadets. They are able to practice the various skills they’ve learned from previous training during the 14 days in the field. Capt. Patrick Harvey, a logistics officer, explained the purpose of field preparation today. “The purpose of the training today is to basically go over the squad battle drills,” he said. “What that means is the squads are breaking down [...]

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3h96knghbc[/embedyt] FORT KNOX, Ky. – The Cadets of 1st Regiment, Bravo Company practiced a patrol base operation last night during their ninth day of Cadet Summer Training near George Blair Range. This “practice” patrol base operation prepares the Cadets for the three-phase field training exercise toward the end of Advanced Camp. Capt. Winston Simmonds, the training officer for the 2nd Platoon, explained the reason for this exercise. “Basically, it’s a stationary position for where they can continue mission prep, they can plan other missions or they can also take the opportunity to refit, work on weapons maintenance,” Simmonds said. “If [...]

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSBkuEYRUYs[/embedyt]FORT KNOX, Ky. – Cadets from Delta Co., 1st Regiment Advanced Camp underwent Tactical Casualty Combat Care (TC3) training here Monday. With the help of many medics, the Cadets undertook one of their first must-pass events. Cadre and medics teaching each platoon did their best to reiterate that this event was not about speed, it was about efficiency. “Slow is smooth, smooth is fast,” they would say. The act of slowly walking themselves through the process would help them memorize the most efficient way to treat a combat injury. Acting out a simulation in which their battle buddy has suffered different [...]

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BA90w2YDKmk[/embedyt] FORT KNOX, Ky. – This summer there will be several special events and ceremonies taking place at Fort Knox highlighting the success of thousands of U.S. Army Cadets. Cadets will reunite with family members on Family Day, discover the 17 different branches of the Army during Branch Orientation and proudly graduate on Graduation Day. Previously, Fort Knox hosted a commissioning ceremony for the Cadets. This year, the commissioning ceremonies are taking place at their universities instead. Each of these ceremonies are rooted in years of tradition. Darrell Olson, Cadet Summer Training (CST) special events planner, said tradition is a [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky. – “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” The Mark Twain quote used by Col. Scott Sonsalla during his speech to the Cadets of 9th Regiment, Advanced Camp and their families perfectly sums up the sentiments of today’s graduation. For the group of Cadets, the ceremony marks a coming of age and one giant step closer to becoming Army Officers. The morning sun shined on the cheerful faces of the young Cadets, as they stood proudly at attention. Maj. Gen. John R. Evans, Jr. began [...]

By: Madison Thompson FORT KNOX, Ky. – 8th Regiment, Basic Camp Cadets competed in a Drill and Ceremony Competition Aug. 7 during Cadet Summer Training at Fort Knox, Ky. Platoons competed against one another to earn the title for best movement. Drill and Ceremony is a long-held tradition in the Army and focuses on Soldier movement. “We have everybody up in their straight lines doing parade rest, attention, correcting salutes, and making sure that our whole formation is on cue. We’re all competing with the different platoons to fight against whoever is the best at being all squared away and tight [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky. – Another obstacle out of the way! Cadets from 8thRegiment, Basic Camp tackled the Beaudoin Obstacle Course July 26. The course consists of eight obstacles designed to test the Cadets’ strength, endurance, confidence and leadership.    Like any other obstacle the Cadets face throughout their training, comradery is what keeps the Cadets pushing forward. Throughout their 31 days at Fort Knox, each Cadet pairs with a Battle Buddy, a person responsible for boosting morale and holding the other accountable. For this training in particular, Battle Buddies are their most important team member.    “It’s a mutual relationship, and [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky. – In just 60 seconds, someone you love could be gone. But in that same time, you have the equipment and skills to save a life. Cadets from 8th Regiment, Advanced Camp learned the importance of proper Combat First Aid, July 25. As injured “Rescue Randy” dummies laid on the ground, Cadets sat and listened to Cadre explain how to properly assemble a tourniquet. For this example, their Randy suffered a femoral artery injury just above his knee. The Cadets were given 15 seconds to properly apply a Combat Application Tourniquet while following all of the necessary protocol. Attaching [...]

Fort Knox, Ky. – Cadets with 1st Regiment, Basic Camp conducted squad level situational training exercise lanes on June 27th, at Area of Operation Badger. They are conducting these STX lanes during their field training exercise. For the FTX, the Cadets spend five days in the woods while conducting practical classes, moving tactically, and living in patrol bases. They set up a patrol base by securing an area so that they can maintain their weapons, eat, and prepare for their missions. They maintain a level of security at all times and attempt to mitigate their signature while living in the field. In [...]

Fort Knox, Ky. – Cadets with 4th Regiment, Advanced Camp were challenged by the Field Leadership Reaction Course on June 26th. This event places a Cadet in a leadership position, where they must safely complete a given objective, while navigating an obstacle. They are dealt situations with many constraints and limited resources. “It really tests our leadership skills and ability to work as a team,” said Cadet Catherine Lynch from Mount Mary University (host school McDaniels University), “Our goal isn’t to complete the obstacles, but show our growth and ability to work together as a cohesive unit, as leaders and followers. This [...]

FORT KNOX, KENTUCKY – The highly motivated Cadets of 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp experienced the sensations of a Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear chamber. A CBRN strike is simulated by activating tear gas in a confined space, which provides a necessary incentive to train properly. The exercise requires Cadets to don Mission Oriented Protective Posture equipment, that is used to protect Soldiers in toxic environments. They then performed safety checks on their gas mask seals, outerwear, over boots, and gloves. The Cadets file into the chamber after safety checks are completed then perform exercises to get their heartrate up and breathing elevated. They [...]

FORT KNOX, KY – The Cadets of 2nd regiment Advance Camp were processed through the Central Issue Facility, Sunday June 10, to ensure they had all necessary equipment to complete their training. The Cadets need to have gear that is reliable and in good condition, as well as addresses the packing list issued before camp, that listed essential items. It’s important that these Cadets have approved rucksacks that can carry all of their equipment for the duration of their time in the field. They also require assault packs that allow for high mobility during Situational Training Exercises. “These college students are aspiring [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky.—Cadets of 4th Regiment, Basic Camp, put their physical fitness skills to the test bright and early during the Army Physical Fitness Test July 2. “To be honest, it’s tough, but its nice having the other Cadets around.” said Cadet Mikayla Blaska, Princeton, “We are all going through the same thing. Its nice to have unity and be going through the struggle together.” During the APFT, Cadets are required to complete push-ups, sit-ups and a 2-mile run to complete the entire test. Cadets were required to be awake well before dawn for the APFT, which is strenuous for most. [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky.—Cadets of 1st Regiment, Basic Camp, were introduced to new tactics on Tuesday, June 12, at the Christensen Range, Fort Knox, Ky. The training focused on small unit tactics. The training was broken down into three rotations: individual movement training (IMT), hand grenade training, and a classroom style briefing. Cadets dressed in their field gear and used camouflage face paint, branches and leaves to blend in with their surroundings. “What we are doing here today is infantry training. A lot of the Cadets are given blanks and are being put in a situation where they are going to be [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky.—Cadets of 4th Regiment, Basic Camp, Alpha Company, were instilled with the seven key Army values June 18, taking a break from the heat with some indoor training. Sergeant Victor Jimenez, originally from Cayey, Puerto Rico, is one of the Drill Sergeants from the Reserve drill sergeant unit stationed in St. Petersburg, Florida. He will be assisting with Cadet Summer Training until July 7. “You are getting a weird opportunity to train your supervisors.” said Jimenez. “Our oldest Cadets are going to commission and become platoon leaders, so we want to instill the basic mentality of the Army’s values, [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky. – After a rigorous 31 days, Cadets of 6th Regiment celebrated the long-awaited completion of Basic Camp with a graduation ceremony on Brooks Field August 2. Looking back, Cadet Alexander Ayres of the University of Northern Colorado says his experience at Basic Camp was more enjoyable than it was difficult all thanks to his peers in Alpha Company. “It was kind of a culture shock transitioning from my civilian life to basic summer training. I made a bunch of friends and I’ve made lots of new battle buddies and they really helped me pull through thick and thin. [...]

FORT KNOX, Ky. – Into the field they go. 7th Regiment, Basic Camp Cadets are executing battle tactics out in the wilderness of Fort Knox as part of their field training exercises July 28. Cadet Micah Griffith, a Citadel student and a resident of Saluda, South Carolina, says the purpose of the field training exercise is to give Cadets a sense of what it’s like to conduct actual mission operations against enemy units.   “It gives us an idea of what we’re supposed to be doing,” Griffith shared.   Cadet Michael Vilker of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign says it’s [...]