21 August 2011
Day 64
Today was a typical Sunday, only we got to sleep until 0600. Much needed! We pretty much relaxed all day! We cleaned a little, napped a little, wrote a little. My body was pretty tired after FTX 3, so it needed a break. We will be in recovery until we graduate, but we have plenty of things to do! I will be blogging each day on these things! Everyone enjoy their Sunday!
Matthew
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Final Training Day: 16k Ruck
20 August 2011
Day 63
Today was probably the best day thus far in my short military career (63 days actually)! We finished Basic Combat Training this morning and what a great feeling it was! Surreal almost and in many ways gratifying!
The company woke up at 01:30 and geared up to start our journey back to the barracks at 02:10. After the first hour, we stopped for a 15 min break. Our next stop was at the 8k mark. Then our last stop was at the barracks, where we arrived around 06:30. The staff had placed tiki torches along the walk ways for us. The drill sergeants were throwing smoke grenades as we were entering the CTA (Covered Training Area). When we got to the CTA, a DVD slideshow was playing with all of the pictures that had been taken throughout the cycle, with all types of music! Very touching! I won't lie, a few tears came to my eyes. Not because I made it, but because a few guys in my platoon and company made it and I hadn't given them a chance from day one! I only hope they were as proud of themselves and everyone else was! They company then participated in a ceremony where a "punch" was made with different types of juices, representing things such as, blood, sweat, tears, integrity, etc. Everything that goes into making a professional solider. I want the recipe because it was really good! After the punch was made everyone got a cup and the drill sergeants toasted the following: The United States of America, The US Army, our company (Bravo 2-46), and lastly the fallen soldiers who gave their lives for our country! What an awesome ceremony!
Breakfast chow at 0800 and pretty much the rest of the day was relaxing (cleaning rifles, straighten up lockers, etc). At 14:00 the senior drill sergeant come and got Colavito and myself and told us to ride to Marietta with him to pick up the AWOL guys! Yep, the Army tracked them down and had them bused back to Georgia to return to Ft. Benning. Those guys have no idea what they are about to go through! Both are only 18 years old.
We got back to the barracks around 19:00, ate our left over chow and lights out at 20:00 for some much needed rest! Good night all!
Matthew
Day 63
Today was probably the best day thus far in my short military career (63 days actually)! We finished Basic Combat Training this morning and what a great feeling it was! Surreal almost and in many ways gratifying!
The company woke up at 01:30 and geared up to start our journey back to the barracks at 02:10. After the first hour, we stopped for a 15 min break. Our next stop was at the 8k mark. Then our last stop was at the barracks, where we arrived around 06:30. The staff had placed tiki torches along the walk ways for us. The drill sergeants were throwing smoke grenades as we were entering the CTA (Covered Training Area). When we got to the CTA, a DVD slideshow was playing with all of the pictures that had been taken throughout the cycle, with all types of music! Very touching! I won't lie, a few tears came to my eyes. Not because I made it, but because a few guys in my platoon and company made it and I hadn't given them a chance from day one! I only hope they were as proud of themselves and everyone else was! They company then participated in a ceremony where a "punch" was made with different types of juices, representing things such as, blood, sweat, tears, integrity, etc. Everything that goes into making a professional solider. I want the recipe because it was really good! After the punch was made everyone got a cup and the drill sergeants toasted the following: The United States of America, The US Army, our company (Bravo 2-46), and lastly the fallen soldiers who gave their lives for our country! What an awesome ceremony!
Breakfast chow at 0800 and pretty much the rest of the day was relaxing (cleaning rifles, straighten up lockers, etc). At 14:00 the senior drill sergeant come and got Colavito and myself and told us to ride to Marietta with him to pick up the AWOL guys! Yep, the Army tracked them down and had them bused back to Georgia to return to Ft. Benning. Those guys have no idea what they are about to go through! Both are only 18 years old.
We got back to the barracks around 19:00, ate our left over chow and lights out at 20:00 for some much needed rest! Good night all!
Matthew
FTX 3 -Day 5 (Final Day)
19 August 2011
Day 62
Final day of FTX 3! And what an interesting day it turned out to be! Wake up at 0500 with breakfast chow at 0800. Duty squad had the truck loaded with gear we had to return and after chow we headed to the main post to return it. However, on the way to the main post we found out that our priority was not returning the gear, but finding two missing soldiers from our platoon. Long story short, two soldiers had gone to sick call the day before and never showed back up at the patrol base, nor had they contacted anyone. So, duty squad rode around with our senior drill sergeants for 6 hours looking for these two individuals. They were nowhere to be found. Finally, around 14:30, they were reported AWOL (Absent without leave).
Duty squad came back to the FTX site and performed our training with the hummers like the groups from yesterday. Our team did well. The Battalion Commander, LTC Brown, was watching and he had some good comments about our techniques, as well as the drill sergeants. We finished right before dinner chow @ 17:00. The the real work began. Duty squad had to pack everything, collect and sort all ammo, and clean up many areas. No fun, but it did help pass the time. We finally bunked around 2300, knowing we had to wake up at 01:30 for our final training test: the 16k ruck back to the barracks.
I have more info on the AWOL idiots. They did indeed go AWOL. They were traced through the Greyhound bus system as passengers on buses to Kentucky and Chicago. More on them when updated.
Matthew
Day 62
Final day of FTX 3! And what an interesting day it turned out to be! Wake up at 0500 with breakfast chow at 0800. Duty squad had the truck loaded with gear we had to return and after chow we headed to the main post to return it. However, on the way to the main post we found out that our priority was not returning the gear, but finding two missing soldiers from our platoon. Long story short, two soldiers had gone to sick call the day before and never showed back up at the patrol base, nor had they contacted anyone. So, duty squad rode around with our senior drill sergeants for 6 hours looking for these two individuals. They were nowhere to be found. Finally, around 14:30, they were reported AWOL (Absent without leave).
Duty squad came back to the FTX site and performed our training with the hummers like the groups from yesterday. Our team did well. The Battalion Commander, LTC Brown, was watching and he had some good comments about our techniques, as well as the drill sergeants. We finished right before dinner chow @ 17:00. The the real work began. Duty squad had to pack everything, collect and sort all ammo, and clean up many areas. No fun, but it did help pass the time. We finally bunked around 2300, knowing we had to wake up at 01:30 for our final training test: the 16k ruck back to the barracks.
I have more info on the AWOL idiots. They did indeed go AWOL. They were traced through the Greyhound bus system as passengers on buses to Kentucky and Chicago. More on them when updated.
Matthew
FTX -Day 4
18 August 2011
Day 61
Today was a great day at FTX 3! Wake up at 0500 and chow at 0800. 1st platoon (my platoon) and 3rd platoon got a break most of the day while 2nd and 4th platoon conducted convoy training. Four military hummers showed up around 0900 to be part of the training. The objective was to conduct a search on a 5 house village for enemy forces and weapons. We were in squad teams of 10-12 people. The drill sergeants had five small houses set up and the hummers took the squad, traveling in a convoy, to the village. The squad, using learned tactics, conducted a search at the houses. Enemies were in each house and each squad had to react to that as well! After each house was secure, squads had to make several reports and give them to the commander. We basically used everything we learned at basic training in the hour long exercise. I can't wait for our platoon to go tomorrow!
At 1600 the company got a great surprise! We got to go back to the barracks for a couple of hours to shower and rest in the cool bay! I think we really needed that! Tomorrow is a busy day! Better get some rest! I have TOC duty at 0100.
Matthew
Day 61
Today was a great day at FTX 3! Wake up at 0500 and chow at 0800. 1st platoon (my platoon) and 3rd platoon got a break most of the day while 2nd and 4th platoon conducted convoy training. Four military hummers showed up around 0900 to be part of the training. The objective was to conduct a search on a 5 house village for enemy forces and weapons. We were in squad teams of 10-12 people. The drill sergeants had five small houses set up and the hummers took the squad, traveling in a convoy, to the village. The squad, using learned tactics, conducted a search at the houses. Enemies were in each house and each squad had to react to that as well! After each house was secure, squads had to make several reports and give them to the commander. We basically used everything we learned at basic training in the hour long exercise. I can't wait for our platoon to go tomorrow!
At 1600 the company got a great surprise! We got to go back to the barracks for a couple of hours to shower and rest in the cool bay! I think we really needed that! Tomorrow is a busy day! Better get some rest! I have TOC duty at 0100.
Matthew
FTX -Day 3
17 August 2011
Day 60
Wake up at 0530 today and conducted personal hygiene. I changed clothes for the first time since Monday at 0400. Felt really good! Duty squad performed the usual duties. After lunch chow, duty squad went to the Main Post and picked up the MILES Gear (basically like laser tag gear). Took us 5 hours to sort through and make sure everything was in working order. Got back just in time for dinner chow at 17:30.
Pretty much been a slow evening. We have eaten MREs five out of the last 9 meals thus far. I don't mind because of the selection they offer. My favorite is the sloppy joe! I have TOC patrol from 0100-0230, so I better try to rest a few hours!
Matthew
Day 60
Wake up at 0530 today and conducted personal hygiene. I changed clothes for the first time since Monday at 0400. Felt really good! Duty squad performed the usual duties. After lunch chow, duty squad went to the Main Post and picked up the MILES Gear (basically like laser tag gear). Took us 5 hours to sort through and make sure everything was in working order. Got back just in time for dinner chow at 17:30.
Pretty much been a slow evening. We have eaten MREs five out of the last 9 meals thus far. I don't mind because of the selection they offer. My favorite is the sloppy joe! I have TOC patrol from 0100-0230, so I better try to rest a few hours!
Matthew
FTX 3-Day 2
16 August 2011
Day 59
Wake up at 0530 today and conducted personal hygiene in the dark. Oh well if I missed a few spots because everyone else will too! Duty squad started at 0615 refilling each platoon's necessary items: ice, MREs, etc. 0800 was chow for the whole company. Most of the day the company conducted battle drills: react to contact, react to ambush, bounding drills, etc. In addition, duty squad assembled four mini houses for the platoons to practice clearing. Also, we built three, four feet deep bunkers for protection at the TOC.
All through the night the drill sergeants and their platoon's conducted controlled "attacks" on other platoons using blanks and smoke bombs. We (duty squad) could hear everything over the radios at the TOC, which was really cool. I have TOC watch at 0400-0500, so not much sleep for me tonight!
Matthew
Day 59
Wake up at 0530 today and conducted personal hygiene in the dark. Oh well if I missed a few spots because everyone else will too! Duty squad started at 0615 refilling each platoon's necessary items: ice, MREs, etc. 0800 was chow for the whole company. Most of the day the company conducted battle drills: react to contact, react to ambush, bounding drills, etc. In addition, duty squad assembled four mini houses for the platoons to practice clearing. Also, we built three, four feet deep bunkers for protection at the TOC.
All through the night the drill sergeants and their platoon's conducted controlled "attacks" on other platoons using blanks and smoke bombs. We (duty squad) could hear everything over the radios at the TOC, which was really cool. I have TOC watch at 0400-0500, so not much sleep for me tonight!
Matthew
FTX 3-Day 1
15 August 2011
Day 58
Duty Squad (yes, i'm back on it) woke up today at 03:30 to begin the departure process of our company to FTX 3. Final duties until 0730 then chow at 0800. A lot of "set-up" was completed yesterday, so we basically completed some last minute chores before the company arrived in the field.
The rest of the company arrived in the field around 0930 and the majority of the day was spent setting up patrol bases and the Tactical Operation Center (TOC). Each platoon set up their patrol bases while duty squad was responsible for the TOC. The TOC is made up of two tents (large ones) and holds radio, radio batteries, supplies, ammunition, MREs, and anything else needed by the platoons. It literally took until 1730 to finish the TOC. Dinner chow at 1800 for the whole company.
The evening cap was NIC (Night Infiltration Course). This course was really neat, yet one of the most dangerous courses thus far. Picture a regular soccer field (100 yards long by 75-100 yards wide, I think). Anyway, those dimensions are close. Next, picture barbed wire and concertina wire running the width of the field every 10-15 yards. Also, picture 3' x 3' areas contained by a 2' chain length fence. These areas held several explosives.
The objective was to crawl (either the high crawl or low crawl) around 110 meters, while four 240 Bravo machine guns are firing 5' over your head (live rounds), explosives are going off right next to you, and flares are lighting up the sky. The intent was to simulate battle conditions at night and they did a good job of it! Think about it, if one of us stoop up we could have potential been hit by a 240 round (7.62mm round). The crawl took approximately 20 minutes and we had to crawl with our weapons in hand. I will be honest, it was sort of nerve racking!
The whole company finished the course around 23:00 and duty squad was back at the TOC at 00:00. Duty squad (12 of us) slept at the TOC on top of the ground! Tonight was a cool evening, very low humidity and very clear!
Matthew
Day 58
Duty Squad (yes, i'm back on it) woke up today at 03:30 to begin the departure process of our company to FTX 3. Final duties until 0730 then chow at 0800. A lot of "set-up" was completed yesterday, so we basically completed some last minute chores before the company arrived in the field.
The rest of the company arrived in the field around 0930 and the majority of the day was spent setting up patrol bases and the Tactical Operation Center (TOC). Each platoon set up their patrol bases while duty squad was responsible for the TOC. The TOC is made up of two tents (large ones) and holds radio, radio batteries, supplies, ammunition, MREs, and anything else needed by the platoons. It literally took until 1730 to finish the TOC. Dinner chow at 1800 for the whole company.
The evening cap was NIC (Night Infiltration Course). This course was really neat, yet one of the most dangerous courses thus far. Picture a regular soccer field (100 yards long by 75-100 yards wide, I think). Anyway, those dimensions are close. Next, picture barbed wire and concertina wire running the width of the field every 10-15 yards. Also, picture 3' x 3' areas contained by a 2' chain length fence. These areas held several explosives.
The objective was to crawl (either the high crawl or low crawl) around 110 meters, while four 240 Bravo machine guns are firing 5' over your head (live rounds), explosives are going off right next to you, and flares are lighting up the sky. The intent was to simulate battle conditions at night and they did a good job of it! Think about it, if one of us stoop up we could have potential been hit by a 240 round (7.62mm round). The crawl took approximately 20 minutes and we had to crawl with our weapons in hand. I will be honest, it was sort of nerve racking!
The whole company finished the course around 23:00 and duty squad was back at the TOC at 00:00. Duty squad (12 of us) slept at the TOC on top of the ground! Tonight was a cool evening, very low humidity and very clear!
Matthew
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Sunday, Preparing for FTX 3!
14 August 2011
Day 57
Today was a typical Sunday. Wake up 05:00 and cleaned until chow. Duty squad, which I am on again, left at 14:30 to prepare the field for FTX 3. We worked until 20:00 hauling equipment from the barracks.
The highlight of the evening was that I got a 30 minute phone call to Jesica! Those are few and far between! I will be in the field for a week so I will catch up on the blog when I return.
Matthew
Day 57
Today was a typical Sunday. Wake up 05:00 and cleaned until chow. Duty squad, which I am on again, left at 14:30 to prepare the field for FTX 3. We worked until 20:00 hauling equipment from the barracks.
The highlight of the evening was that I got a 30 minute phone call to Jesica! Those are few and far between! I will be in the field for a week so I will catch up on the blog when I return.
Matthew
Final Army Physical Fitness Test and Concert Night!
13 August 2011
Day 56
Wake up at 04:00 today and 04:45 was the final formation for the final AFPT @ 05:00. My scores were ok. I scored at 230, which was well beyond passing, but lower than last time. I will be honest...I was lacking motivation this morning for some reason. You know how you wake up some mornings and you just don't have that motivation to be on top of your game? Well, that was me today. As the day went on I got better though.
We had breakfast chow in the barracks area today at 08:00. At 09:00 we continued our Modern Army Combatives training. We learned out to fight with our M16 on both the offensive and defensive side. We also learned several moves in the "clinch" position (basically locking up with the opponent) on both the offensive and defensive side. This lasted until 14:00, with lunch chow at 12:00
At 14:00 hours we were instructed to go to our Platoon Bays and begin packing for our final Field Training Exercise (FTX 3). We had a huge packing list so it took some time to organize our equipment and start the packing process.
We leave on Monday the 15th for FTX. We are being told we will not come back until Saturday morning. I hope that is not true! If it is true, it will be a long week for us; a long hot week!
Tonight, though, we got a little treat! At 18:00 we were bused to a field about 5 minutes from the barracks. A band called "Whiskey Bent" was performing, but the music was the last thing on my mind. The place at pizza, BBQ, ice cream, shaved ice, candy, soft drinks, and my favorite...funnel cakes. Also, Verizon was a sponsor and they had about 50 phones so the soldiers could use them to call home. I was able to talk to Jesica about 15 minutes!! Great time! I also stuffed my face. I ate large pizza, snickers, peanut M&Ms, Reese's, shaved ice, funnel cake, drank a Mountain Dew and Gatorade. Needless to say I was miserable at 20:45 (time we left), but it was well worth it!
Matthew
Day 56
Wake up at 04:00 today and 04:45 was the final formation for the final AFPT @ 05:00. My scores were ok. I scored at 230, which was well beyond passing, but lower than last time. I will be honest...I was lacking motivation this morning for some reason. You know how you wake up some mornings and you just don't have that motivation to be on top of your game? Well, that was me today. As the day went on I got better though.
We had breakfast chow in the barracks area today at 08:00. At 09:00 we continued our Modern Army Combatives training. We learned out to fight with our M16 on both the offensive and defensive side. We also learned several moves in the "clinch" position (basically locking up with the opponent) on both the offensive and defensive side. This lasted until 14:00, with lunch chow at 12:00
At 14:00 hours we were instructed to go to our Platoon Bays and begin packing for our final Field Training Exercise (FTX 3). We had a huge packing list so it took some time to organize our equipment and start the packing process.
We leave on Monday the 15th for FTX. We are being told we will not come back until Saturday morning. I hope that is not true! If it is true, it will be a long week for us; a long hot week!
Tonight, though, we got a little treat! At 18:00 we were bused to a field about 5 minutes from the barracks. A band called "Whiskey Bent" was performing, but the music was the last thing on my mind. The place at pizza, BBQ, ice cream, shaved ice, candy, soft drinks, and my favorite...funnel cakes. Also, Verizon was a sponsor and they had about 50 phones so the soldiers could use them to call home. I was able to talk to Jesica about 15 minutes!! Great time! I also stuffed my face. I ate large pizza, snickers, peanut M&Ms, Reese's, shaved ice, funnel cake, drank a Mountain Dew and Gatorade. Needless to say I was miserable at 20:45 (time we left), but it was well worth it!
Matthew
Buddy Team Tactics: Day 2
12 August 2011
Day 55
Wake up at 05:00 today with a modified (very light) PT at 06:00. Breakfast chow at 08:00 and trans back to the range at 09:00. Today my platoon (1st Platoon) and 3rd Platoon conducted training on Buddy Team Tactics. The range was set up like this: 100 yards long by 75 yards wide; junk cars, sandbags, various size walls as barriers, and targets to shoot at as well. As 4-man teams, we used tactical moved called individualized movement techniques or IMTs. They include the low crawl, the high crawl, and the 3-5 second rush, which goes "I'm up, he sees me, I'm down." Each two man team communicated with the other two man team to cover them while they moved. So the team moving would use successive bounds, while the other team used suppressive fire. We did the course/range two times: one with blanks and one with live rounds. The one with live rounds really got me going because we were the first team for our platoon and the Captain (Company Commander) was walking along with us. I think our team impressed him, especially since we hit almost all the targets each time.
Great day for training! Not unbearably hot, about mid to upper 90s. I've kind of gotten used to the heat now, especially training with all of the gear on. The key is to drink lots of water.
Final AFPT tomorrow! Hope to get some great rest and score well on it!
Matthew
Day 55
Wake up at 05:00 today with a modified (very light) PT at 06:00. Breakfast chow at 08:00 and trans back to the range at 09:00. Today my platoon (1st Platoon) and 3rd Platoon conducted training on Buddy Team Tactics. The range was set up like this: 100 yards long by 75 yards wide; junk cars, sandbags, various size walls as barriers, and targets to shoot at as well. As 4-man teams, we used tactical moved called individualized movement techniques or IMTs. They include the low crawl, the high crawl, and the 3-5 second rush, which goes "I'm up, he sees me, I'm down." Each two man team communicated with the other two man team to cover them while they moved. So the team moving would use successive bounds, while the other team used suppressive fire. We did the course/range two times: one with blanks and one with live rounds. The one with live rounds really got me going because we were the first team for our platoon and the Captain (Company Commander) was walking along with us. I think our team impressed him, especially since we hit almost all the targets each time.
Great day for training! Not unbearably hot, about mid to upper 90s. I've kind of gotten used to the heat now, especially training with all of the gear on. The key is to drink lots of water.
Final AFPT tomorrow! Hope to get some great rest and score well on it!
Matthew
Buddy Team Tactics: Individualized Movement Techniques
11 August 2011
Day 54
Wake up at 03:45 today with PT at 06:00. Chow at 07:30 and trans to the range at 08:30. Today, we trained on the concept of Buddy Team Tactics. The objective was to move tactically towards the enemy, while keeping cover behind cars, sandbags, walls, and other objects. The 2nd and 4th platoons participated today. My platoon and the 3rd platoon will go tomorrow. The reason for alternating the days is that the second time through the course, we will be using live rounds shooting at pop-up targets. Therefore, there is a ton of range control and drill sergeants monitoring our every move. I will give a more details brief on this tomorrow.
My platoon and 3rd platoon went through concurrent training today. All we did was practice our "battle drills" for FTX 3 coming up. We were given a position of the enemy and we had to engage him with blank rounds of fire.
Around 01:30 it was 105 degrees at Ft. Benning. We were in the woods most of the time so that provided some good shade. We got a break around 02:45 when a thunderstorm rolled through. It felt pretty good after that. Always nice to have one of those to help fight the heat.
Tonight was low key. Cleaning and more cleaning. We are resting for our final APFT on Saturday. Things are going smooth! Can't wait to see everyone!
Matthew
Day 54
Wake up at 03:45 today with PT at 06:00. Chow at 07:30 and trans to the range at 08:30. Today, we trained on the concept of Buddy Team Tactics. The objective was to move tactically towards the enemy, while keeping cover behind cars, sandbags, walls, and other objects. The 2nd and 4th platoons participated today. My platoon and the 3rd platoon will go tomorrow. The reason for alternating the days is that the second time through the course, we will be using live rounds shooting at pop-up targets. Therefore, there is a ton of range control and drill sergeants monitoring our every move. I will give a more details brief on this tomorrow.
My platoon and 3rd platoon went through concurrent training today. All we did was practice our "battle drills" for FTX 3 coming up. We were given a position of the enemy and we had to engage him with blank rounds of fire.
Around 01:30 it was 105 degrees at Ft. Benning. We were in the woods most of the time so that provided some good shade. We got a break around 02:45 when a thunderstorm rolled through. It felt pretty good after that. Always nice to have one of those to help fight the heat.
Tonight was low key. Cleaning and more cleaning. We are resting for our final APFT on Saturday. Things are going smooth! Can't wait to see everyone!
Matthew
Friday, August 12, 2011
Fairly Calm, but Productive Day!
10 August 2011
Day 53
Wake-up at 0345 with PT at 0500. Chow at 0730 and formation at 0815. Today we marched to an area (about 2 miles) to conduct training on clearing rooms in a team (4). Basic tactics were used. I got to kick open a few doors while the other team members moved in. Almost like the stuff you see SWAT teams do.
After lunch chow, we continued to train until 14:00. We then went to the PX one final time before FTX 3. We marched back to the barracks and paid for our pictures and bought our tokens for the concert we have Saturday evening! Finally, some junk food and carbonated drinks! More on that subject Saturday!
Overall, a good day! APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test) 3 on Saturday! FTX 3 and final ruck march next week! Can't wait!
Matthew
Day 53
Wake-up at 0345 with PT at 0500. Chow at 0730 and formation at 0815. Today we marched to an area (about 2 miles) to conduct training on clearing rooms in a team (4). Basic tactics were used. I got to kick open a few doors while the other team members moved in. Almost like the stuff you see SWAT teams do.
After lunch chow, we continued to train until 14:00. We then went to the PX one final time before FTX 3. We marched back to the barracks and paid for our pictures and bought our tokens for the concert we have Saturday evening! Finally, some junk food and carbonated drinks! More on that subject Saturday!
Overall, a good day! APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test) 3 on Saturday! FTX 3 and final ruck march next week! Can't wait!
Matthew
Hand Grenades Qualification
9 August 2011
Day 52
Today was a very exciting day! Wake up at 03:45 (a little early). PT was conducted at 05:30 and breakfast chow at 07:30. Today was hand grenade qualification. We rucked to the hand grenade range (about 1.5 miles) and began conducting our training. First, we were given a class on the hand grenade. Next, we were given some practice grenades and were judged on our form and actions. The Range Cadre basically told us to throw it like a football or baseball. Fortunately, I could relate to that! Then came the fun part! We were all lined up behind a concrete barrier, and were given instructions on throwing the live hand grenade. When the range cadre handed us the grenade they gave us the "go" sign to run out to our respective bunker. I had bunker #2, which means I threw second. A range cadre (range manager) was there to guide us. When the tower said "lane 2, prepare to throw" that meant me! I flipped the secondary safety, pulled the safety ring, and threw the crap out of the grenade. I made sure to get it as far away from the bunker as I could. About 3-5 seconds later the grenade went off with a "boom" and I was done, but most importantly alive! All of this happened before lunch.
The rest of the afternoon was spent at the grenade range completing stations to qualify with the grenade. Stations such as throws and identifying types of grenades! All went well with me. I got "go's" on all 7 stations.
We rucked back to the barracks and it began to pour rain. Much needed rain for a very hot week! Getting to bunk early! Catching up on sleep that is much needed!
Matthew
Day 52
Today was a very exciting day! Wake up at 03:45 (a little early). PT was conducted at 05:30 and breakfast chow at 07:30. Today was hand grenade qualification. We rucked to the hand grenade range (about 1.5 miles) and began conducting our training. First, we were given a class on the hand grenade. Next, we were given some practice grenades and were judged on our form and actions. The Range Cadre basically told us to throw it like a football or baseball. Fortunately, I could relate to that! Then came the fun part! We were all lined up behind a concrete barrier, and were given instructions on throwing the live hand grenade. When the range cadre handed us the grenade they gave us the "go" sign to run out to our respective bunker. I had bunker #2, which means I threw second. A range cadre (range manager) was there to guide us. When the tower said "lane 2, prepare to throw" that meant me! I flipped the secondary safety, pulled the safety ring, and threw the crap out of the grenade. I made sure to get it as far away from the bunker as I could. About 3-5 seconds later the grenade went off with a "boom" and I was done, but most importantly alive! All of this happened before lunch.
The rest of the afternoon was spent at the grenade range completing stations to qualify with the grenade. Stations such as throws and identifying types of grenades! All went well with me. I got "go's" on all 7 stations.
We rucked back to the barracks and it began to pour rain. Much needed rain for a very hot week! Getting to bunk early! Catching up on sleep that is much needed!
Matthew
Advanced Rifle Marksmanship: Final Day!
8 August 2011
Day 51
Wake up at 0400 (back to normal), PT at 0500 and breakfast chow at 0730. Today was the last day of ARM. What a day it turned out to be. From 0900 to 1200 we were observed on our three positions of fire: standing, kneeling, and prone position. We shot ten rounds from each at targets ranging from 50-300m. We also conducted concurrent training and were introduced to our topic for tomorrow: hand grenades!
Lunch chow was at 1230 and then the fun began. While in our "full battle rattle" (bullet proof vest, fighting land carrier, and our helmet), the Drill Sergeants divided the company into 9 man teams and had 5 stations set up for us.
Station 1: PT smoking--> doing 5-7 PT drills without rest
Station 2: Carrying Rifles and ammo cans around a field
Station 3: Dragging sand bags in a litter (field stretcher)
Station 4: More PT smoking
Station 5: Shoot 30 rounds at moving targets
The objective of this drill was to create chaos and adversity of being in battle to see who could keep their composure at the end to make good shots. I was about to hit 22/30, which I thought was good. I literally thought I was going to pass out. There was not a dry thread on my body! My boots were even wet with sweat! The temp was in the upper 90s today, but everyone made it through okay! I didn't eat much dinner because I was so hot/overheated. A good night's rest is much needed!
To cap off the evening, a drill sergeant decided to come in around 22:30 to check on us. A few guys were up doing who knows what, so he turned on all the lights and proceeded to give us PT for 20 minutes. I was not a happy camper! What a day! Hand grenades tomorrow!
Matthew
Day 51
Wake up at 0400 (back to normal), PT at 0500 and breakfast chow at 0730. Today was the last day of ARM. What a day it turned out to be. From 0900 to 1200 we were observed on our three positions of fire: standing, kneeling, and prone position. We shot ten rounds from each at targets ranging from 50-300m. We also conducted concurrent training and were introduced to our topic for tomorrow: hand grenades!
Lunch chow was at 1230 and then the fun began. While in our "full battle rattle" (bullet proof vest, fighting land carrier, and our helmet), the Drill Sergeants divided the company into 9 man teams and had 5 stations set up for us.
Station 1: PT smoking--> doing 5-7 PT drills without rest
Station 2: Carrying Rifles and ammo cans around a field
Station 3: Dragging sand bags in a litter (field stretcher)
Station 4: More PT smoking
Station 5: Shoot 30 rounds at moving targets
The objective of this drill was to create chaos and adversity of being in battle to see who could keep their composure at the end to make good shots. I was about to hit 22/30, which I thought was good. I literally thought I was going to pass out. There was not a dry thread on my body! My boots were even wet with sweat! The temp was in the upper 90s today, but everyone made it through okay! I didn't eat much dinner because I was so hot/overheated. A good night's rest is much needed!
To cap off the evening, a drill sergeant decided to come in around 22:30 to check on us. A few guys were up doing who knows what, so he turned on all the lights and proceeded to give us PT for 20 minutes. I was not a happy camper! What a day! Hand grenades tomorrow!
Matthew
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Cleaning Sunday!
7 August 2011
Day 50
Sunday! I love Sundays! A chance to relax, write, and a chance to talk about the past week and upcoming week! Wake up @ 06:40. Chow at 08:00. We were ordered to clean everything in the bay, our bunks, latrines, etc. I did, however, get to catch up on some writing and laundry! I was glad to get the news that my cousin Amos and his girlfriend Anna got engaged! I am so excited for them! Can't wait to talk to both of them to get details and celebrate! That's pretty much it from Ft. Benning today! Still hot during the day! But on the bright side, only a couple more weeks to train! Hope all is well!
Matthew
Day 50
Sunday! I love Sundays! A chance to relax, write, and a chance to talk about the past week and upcoming week! Wake up @ 06:40. Chow at 08:00. We were ordered to clean everything in the bay, our bunks, latrines, etc. I did, however, get to catch up on some writing and laundry! I was glad to get the news that my cousin Amos and his girlfriend Anna got engaged! I am so excited for them! Can't wait to talk to both of them to get details and celebrate! That's pretty much it from Ft. Benning today! Still hot during the day! But on the bright side, only a couple more weeks to train! Hope all is well!
Matthew
Saturday: Late Wake-up, Haircut and PX
6 August 2011
Day 49
I got my wish...almost! We had wake-up at 06:45 and chow at 08:00. At 09:00 we marched to a training site and conducted ECP (Entry Check Point) training. ECP is used to check, search, and clear any vehicle trying to enter a U.S. Military Base. We got to eat MREs, which, by the way, have become one of my favorite experiences at BCT.
At 13:00, we marched to the PX for a haircut and a few items to get us through the next few weeks. Fortunately, I was good on everything but laundry detergent and deodorant. I bought a few items I probably don't need just for the heck of it (Febreeze, baby powder, extra bug spray, etc). Actually, rumor is that if you sprinkle baby powder in your "hasty" on the FTX, the bugs will stay away! I will be trying it out on our last one. Should make for an interesting story!
Pretty much cleaned the rest of the evening and bunked at 21:00! Can't wait till tomorrow! A day of rest!
Matthew
Day 49
I got my wish...almost! We had wake-up at 06:45 and chow at 08:00. At 09:00 we marched to a training site and conducted ECP (Entry Check Point) training. ECP is used to check, search, and clear any vehicle trying to enter a U.S. Military Base. We got to eat MREs, which, by the way, have become one of my favorite experiences at BCT.
At 13:00, we marched to the PX for a haircut and a few items to get us through the next few weeks. Fortunately, I was good on everything but laundry detergent and deodorant. I bought a few items I probably don't need just for the heck of it (Febreeze, baby powder, extra bug spray, etc). Actually, rumor is that if you sprinkle baby powder in your "hasty" on the FTX, the bugs will stay away! I will be trying it out on our last one. Should make for an interesting story!
Pretty much cleaned the rest of the evening and bunked at 21:00! Can't wait till tomorrow! A day of rest!
Matthew
ARM-Advanced Rifle Marksmanship: Night Vision Optics/Pop-up targets
5 August 2011
Day 48
The company got a great surprise this AM. Wake up at 07:30! We needed it after the long night at the range. The day went pretty much like yesterday! Classes all day, then off to the range at 1630. This time, we went to the range that had the pop-up targets; same as our qualifications range. Same format as well; shot 40 rounds before dark to sight the equipment, and then shot at night as well. The targets were 10-50 meters and they popped up and fell when you hit them. Returned to the bay at 23:30 and bunked again at 01:00. Hopefully wake-up will be at 07:30 again!
Matthew
Day 48
The company got a great surprise this AM. Wake up at 07:30! We needed it after the long night at the range. The day went pretty much like yesterday! Classes all day, then off to the range at 1630. This time, we went to the range that had the pop-up targets; same as our qualifications range. Same format as well; shot 40 rounds before dark to sight the equipment, and then shot at night as well. The targets were 10-50 meters and they popped up and fell when you hit them. Returned to the bay at 23:30 and bunked again at 01:00. Hopefully wake-up will be at 07:30 again!
Matthew
ARM 3-Advanced Rifle Marksmanship & Night Vision Equipment/Lasers
4 August 2011
Day 47
Wake up at 0430 today and Pt @ 0600. Breakfast chow at 0745 in the DFAC. We were told we would be going to bed late tonight and tomorrow night. So, all day we had classes on Night vision optics and hand-on instruction in the bay. The temp today was "very hot degrees" (100) so the drill sergeants were very careful about training outside. Around 16:30 the whole company loaded trans to head to the range, where we sighted our M68 CCO (Close Combat Optics). With this scope, you look through the eye piece and see a red laser which points at the target. You sight the red laser, just high (~1mm) of the front iron sight of the M16. Basically, it allows for more accurate and efficient shooting with the M16 in close combat. Great piece of equipment.
At 21:00, usually bunk time, we were beginning our night optics firing with night vision goggles attached to our ACH (Army Combat Helmet) and the PK16 (Infrared laser). This was the highlight of the week. Pitch black dark, on a huge range, wearing night vision goggles, shooting at targets while pointing lasers. If sighted properly these things are very accurate, and I see why they increase our changes of getting the job done.
At 23:30 we loaded trans to head back to the barracks. Finally bunked at 0100! Very tired tonight! I forgot to mention that we were in "full battle rattle" which is ACH, IBA (bullet proof vest), and FLC (fighting load carrier). Total weight around 30 lbs. Not use to carrying that around for 7 hours! Great experience!
Matthew
Day 47
Wake up at 0430 today and Pt @ 0600. Breakfast chow at 0745 in the DFAC. We were told we would be going to bed late tonight and tomorrow night. So, all day we had classes on Night vision optics and hand-on instruction in the bay. The temp today was "very hot degrees" (100) so the drill sergeants were very careful about training outside. Around 16:30 the whole company loaded trans to head to the range, where we sighted our M68 CCO (Close Combat Optics). With this scope, you look through the eye piece and see a red laser which points at the target. You sight the red laser, just high (~1mm) of the front iron sight of the M16. Basically, it allows for more accurate and efficient shooting with the M16 in close combat. Great piece of equipment.
At 21:00, usually bunk time, we were beginning our night optics firing with night vision goggles attached to our ACH (Army Combat Helmet) and the PK16 (Infrared laser). This was the highlight of the week. Pitch black dark, on a huge range, wearing night vision goggles, shooting at targets while pointing lasers. If sighted properly these things are very accurate, and I see why they increase our changes of getting the job done.
At 23:30 we loaded trans to head back to the barracks. Finally bunked at 0100! Very tired tonight! I forgot to mention that we were in "full battle rattle" which is ACH, IBA (bullet proof vest), and FLC (fighting load carrier). Total weight around 30 lbs. Not use to carrying that around for 7 hours! Great experience!
Matthew
Saturday, August 6, 2011
A warm one in Columbus, GA
3 August 2011
Day 46
Wake up this AM was to a fire alarm going off at 0330. Apparently, some guy from another platoon thought the fire alarm was the light switch and he accidentally pulled it. And we are in what week now? Anyway, I slept really well and could have slept for several more hours. We had to be in formation about 0445 to begin our 8 mile ruck march at 0500. Took us about 3 hours to march the 8 miles. I will say until today I thought Columbus was relatively flat. I was wrong. It's very hilly on base. Reminds me a lot of Athens.
We got the news after chow that it was going to be a hot one. And boy was it. By 1600 today it was 110 degrees. I could not believe it, until I stepped outside.
We trained mostly inside today, starting our ARM or Advanced Rifle Marksmanship. We went over mostly lasers, night vision, and the proper sighting. Pretty calm day, but we were beat from the early AM march. Honestly, today was the first day out of 46 days where I wished I could have a couple of days to relax. Soon enough!
Matthew
Day 46
Wake up this AM was to a fire alarm going off at 0330. Apparently, some guy from another platoon thought the fire alarm was the light switch and he accidentally pulled it. And we are in what week now? Anyway, I slept really well and could have slept for several more hours. We had to be in formation about 0445 to begin our 8 mile ruck march at 0500. Took us about 3 hours to march the 8 miles. I will say until today I thought Columbus was relatively flat. I was wrong. It's very hilly on base. Reminds me a lot of Athens.
We got the news after chow that it was going to be a hot one. And boy was it. By 1600 today it was 110 degrees. I could not believe it, until I stepped outside.
We trained mostly inside today, starting our ARM or Advanced Rifle Marksmanship. We went over mostly lasers, night vision, and the proper sighting. Pretty calm day, but we were beat from the early AM march. Honestly, today was the first day out of 46 days where I wished I could have a couple of days to relax. Soon enough!
Matthew
FTX 2-Day 2
2 August 2011
Day 45
Wake up at 0400 and our orders were to pack our hear, conduct personal hygiene, fill in our holes, and stand by for further orders. Around 0745 we moved out of our patrol base to the TOC (Tactical Operations Center) to eat chow. The whole day was pretty much spend conducting battle drills (team assaults, ambushes, etc) Around 14:45 we had a leadership meeting with our senior drill sergeant. He told us we would be moving into blue phase soon and that would mean the leadership would basically be running everything. The group decided to change the leadership up a little bit. I nominated Colavito to be Platoon Guide and I said I would take Assistant Platoon Guide. I think Colavito makes a really good leader. He and I worked well together when I was PG and I know it will work the same when he is PG.
We boarded the buses around 16:00 to head back to the barracks. Everyone was tired, dirty and ready to get a good, hot meal and go to bed. That's pretty much what we did. We have our 8 mile "ruck" in the AM, so its going to be a early wake up call.
Matthew
Day 45
Wake up at 0400 and our orders were to pack our hear, conduct personal hygiene, fill in our holes, and stand by for further orders. Around 0745 we moved out of our patrol base to the TOC (Tactical Operations Center) to eat chow. The whole day was pretty much spend conducting battle drills (team assaults, ambushes, etc) Around 14:45 we had a leadership meeting with our senior drill sergeant. He told us we would be moving into blue phase soon and that would mean the leadership would basically be running everything. The group decided to change the leadership up a little bit. I nominated Colavito to be Platoon Guide and I said I would take Assistant Platoon Guide. I think Colavito makes a really good leader. He and I worked well together when I was PG and I know it will work the same when he is PG.
We boarded the buses around 16:00 to head back to the barracks. Everyone was tired, dirty and ready to get a good, hot meal and go to bed. That's pretty much what we did. We have our 8 mile "ruck" in the AM, so its going to be a early wake up call.
Matthew
FTX 2-Day 1
1 August 2011
Day 44
The platoon woke up at 0400 this morning and headed to formation at 0500. 0500 to 0615 we conducted PT. At 0700 we were back in formation dressed in ACUs with our gear, waiting to each field chow. Everyone had time last night to pack everything for our overnight Field Training Exercise 2 (FTX 2). At 0800 the whole company loaded Trans (buses) and rode about 35 minutes across Ft. Benning. We were then dropped off at the FTX 2 site. By platoon, we "rucked" (hiked) about 1 mile to our Patrol Base (campsite) and started digging our "hasties" (holes). Colavito, the Assistant Platoon Guide, and myself shared a hasty again, and we had a much easier time digging this time. Ours turned out to be great, for a hasty. The afternoon was spent practicing different Battle Drills at the squad and team level. For both lunch and dinner chow we had MREs, which I have grown to enjoy. At 2100, which was nearly dark we had a class on Night Vision Optics. This lasted about an hour. The whole platoon got to use them. Colavito, myself and all the squad leaders got to keep a pair overnight! There was a good reason for that.
The Drill Sergeants asked Colavito and I to pick two times we thought would be our platoon's weakest hour. We picked 00:00 and 03:00. At those times myself, Colavito, and all squad leaders were to wake the drill sergeant and he would throw a simulated mortar round and flash bang, while we shot blanks through our rifles and machine guns. We pulled it off successfully. It sounded like WWII out there. I had a great time doing it, but needless to say I got no sleep. Oh well. Good trade off.
Matthew
Day 44
The platoon woke up at 0400 this morning and headed to formation at 0500. 0500 to 0615 we conducted PT. At 0700 we were back in formation dressed in ACUs with our gear, waiting to each field chow. Everyone had time last night to pack everything for our overnight Field Training Exercise 2 (FTX 2). At 0800 the whole company loaded Trans (buses) and rode about 35 minutes across Ft. Benning. We were then dropped off at the FTX 2 site. By platoon, we "rucked" (hiked) about 1 mile to our Patrol Base (campsite) and started digging our "hasties" (holes). Colavito, the Assistant Platoon Guide, and myself shared a hasty again, and we had a much easier time digging this time. Ours turned out to be great, for a hasty. The afternoon was spent practicing different Battle Drills at the squad and team level. For both lunch and dinner chow we had MREs, which I have grown to enjoy. At 2100, which was nearly dark we had a class on Night Vision Optics. This lasted about an hour. The whole platoon got to use them. Colavito, myself and all the squad leaders got to keep a pair overnight! There was a good reason for that.
The Drill Sergeants asked Colavito and I to pick two times we thought would be our platoon's weakest hour. We picked 00:00 and 03:00. At those times myself, Colavito, and all squad leaders were to wake the drill sergeant and he would throw a simulated mortar round and flash bang, while we shot blanks through our rifles and machine guns. We pulled it off successfully. It sounded like WWII out there. I had a great time doing it, but needless to say I got no sleep. Oh well. Good trade off.
Matthew
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
And the Countdown Begins!
Today, Sunday 31 July 2011, begins the countdown until family day at Ft. Benning! Wake-up was at 0430 and we pretty much cleaned and washed clothes all day. We also prepared for our two day FTX 2 (Field Training Exercise 2) by packing our ruck sack, mounting our night vision goggle plates on our helmets, and fixing all our gear. Starting tomorrow we have 18 days of actual training left. We get a recovery week the week August 22, and the last few days we prepare for graduation on Sept 1st.
The platoon is doing well. We have had a few set backs regarding maturity issues with the younger guys. Therefore, the drill sergeants have taken two of the younger guys in our platoon and have made them Platoon guide (my old job) and assistant platoon guide (my buddy's old job). A little reverse psychology being implemented may do the trick for the younger guys. I have been made "bookman" which is a position that handles all the admin type stuff (ie, sick call, fire guard assignments, a few briefings, etc). I like the move because the two they made PG and APG are the two most immature of the platoon. Only a few short hours have passed and they are completely different.
Pretty much it for now. Everything still on cruise. Looking forward to family day, graduation and returning home to Athens! Football season right around the corner! Go Dawgs!
Matthew
The platoon is doing well. We have had a few set backs regarding maturity issues with the younger guys. Therefore, the drill sergeants have taken two of the younger guys in our platoon and have made them Platoon guide (my old job) and assistant platoon guide (my buddy's old job). A little reverse psychology being implemented may do the trick for the younger guys. I have been made "bookman" which is a position that handles all the admin type stuff (ie, sick call, fire guard assignments, a few briefings, etc). I like the move because the two they made PG and APG are the two most immature of the platoon. Only a few short hours have passed and they are completely different.
Pretty much it for now. Everything still on cruise. Looking forward to family day, graduation and returning home to Athens! Football season right around the corner! Go Dawgs!
Matthew
Army Physical Fitness Test 2
30 July 2011
Day 42
We were told wake-up was @ 0430 but the drill sergeants decided to wake us up 0345. I really did not mind because I was excited about the APFT 2. I started preparing for this several days ago by drinking several (3) canteens of water before bed.
We began the APFT 2 about 0530 with the pushups. We were doing this company wide (225 soldiers). So the whole process took a while. When my turn came I did 52 push-ups, which was ok-about a 20 % increase, which was good. When my turn for situps came I did 61. That was about a 22% increase. The highlight of the day came on the 2-mile run. Last time I ran a 14:27 2-mile. I was disappointed because I knew I could do better than that. This time I ran a 12:31, which maxed me out in the category for 100 points. I received a 72 and a 77 in the push ups and sit-ups respectively, for a total of 249. My goal was 230, so I got 19 points higher! We have another one in 2 weeks and my goal is to get a 270 or higher. That would get me a PT patch to wear on my uniform. Also, it will look great for OCS (Officer Candidate School).
The rest of the day we did phase testing, which tests us over everything since day 1. I did well on that. Lights out at 21:00. Long day, so I hope to sleep well!
Matthew
Day 42
We were told wake-up was @ 0430 but the drill sergeants decided to wake us up 0345. I really did not mind because I was excited about the APFT 2. I started preparing for this several days ago by drinking several (3) canteens of water before bed.
We began the APFT 2 about 0530 with the pushups. We were doing this company wide (225 soldiers). So the whole process took a while. When my turn came I did 52 push-ups, which was ok-about a 20 % increase, which was good. When my turn for situps came I did 61. That was about a 22% increase. The highlight of the day came on the 2-mile run. Last time I ran a 14:27 2-mile. I was disappointed because I knew I could do better than that. This time I ran a 12:31, which maxed me out in the category for 100 points. I received a 72 and a 77 in the push ups and sit-ups respectively, for a total of 249. My goal was 230, so I got 19 points higher! We have another one in 2 weeks and my goal is to get a 270 or higher. That would get me a PT patch to wear on my uniform. Also, it will look great for OCS (Officer Candidate School).
The rest of the day we did phase testing, which tests us over everything since day 1. I did well on that. Lights out at 21:00. Long day, so I hope to sleep well!
Matthew
Day 2: U.S. Weapon Systems
29 July 2011
Day 41
Today was a great day! Wake up at 0400 and "light" PT at 0530. The DS's did not want to go hard on us at PT because we have our 2nd APFT tomorrow. This is the most important one. I feel really good about it though. I've been hydrating all day and this evening, so I hope to score at least 230.
Chow was at 0700 and we were off to the range by 0745. This morning we had a class on the 2 weapons we would be firing today. The first one was the M249 SAW and the M240. Both are high powered machine guns. Both can produce over 500 rounds per minute if fired on burst. I was amazed the whole day. First we fired the M249 SAW. This weapon is used in suppressive fire. We were given 100 round to fire at targets on the range. In just three pulls of the trigger I had expended all 100 rounds.
The second weapon we fired was the M240. This machine gun uses a larger round than the M249. The M240 used a 7.62mm round. We also got to expend 100 round each.
Needless to say, I came back to the barracks today a very happy guy! Not everyone gets to fire these weapons everyday. I feel fortunate to have had to the opportunity to do so!
PT test tomorrow AM! Wish the company luck!
Matthew
Day 41
Today was a great day! Wake up at 0400 and "light" PT at 0530. The DS's did not want to go hard on us at PT because we have our 2nd APFT tomorrow. This is the most important one. I feel really good about it though. I've been hydrating all day and this evening, so I hope to score at least 230.
Chow was at 0700 and we were off to the range by 0745. This morning we had a class on the 2 weapons we would be firing today. The first one was the M249 SAW and the M240. Both are high powered machine guns. Both can produce over 500 rounds per minute if fired on burst. I was amazed the whole day. First we fired the M249 SAW. This weapon is used in suppressive fire. We were given 100 round to fire at targets on the range. In just three pulls of the trigger I had expended all 100 rounds.
The second weapon we fired was the M240. This machine gun uses a larger round than the M249. The M240 used a 7.62mm round. We also got to expend 100 round each.
Needless to say, I came back to the barracks today a very happy guy! Not everyone gets to fire these weapons everyday. I feel fortunate to have had to the opportunity to do so!
PT test tomorrow AM! Wish the company luck!
Matthew
Monday, August 1, 2011
U.S. Weapon Systems
28 July 2011
Day 40
Now that qualification is over the next 2 days will be spend learning about different U.S. Weapon Systems. Today, wake up was about 0400 and first formation was at 0500. PT at 0515, which consisted of normal routine and the ability to group run. Chow was served at 0700 and off to the range we went. The first range we went to was to learn about the AT-4 and BDM. I'm sure everyone has seen one of these weapons. They are the "tube-looking" weapons that one fires from the shoulder. Both were very similar only one can penetrate 14 inch steel. Before lunch chow we were able to fire tracer rounds from the AT-4 at tanks and various targets about the range.
The second range we visited was the M203 grenade launcher. Talk about a neat weapon system. The M203 attaches to the M16 rifle and is fired directly from the rifle. This class was short and we moved directly into firing on the range. Talk about a weapon that packs some punch. Great day (very rewarding) after qualification). Tomorrow will be very interesting!
Matthew
Day 40
Now that qualification is over the next 2 days will be spend learning about different U.S. Weapon Systems. Today, wake up was about 0400 and first formation was at 0500. PT at 0515, which consisted of normal routine and the ability to group run. Chow was served at 0700 and off to the range we went. The first range we went to was to learn about the AT-4 and BDM. I'm sure everyone has seen one of these weapons. They are the "tube-looking" weapons that one fires from the shoulder. Both were very similar only one can penetrate 14 inch steel. Before lunch chow we were able to fire tracer rounds from the AT-4 at tanks and various targets about the range.
The second range we visited was the M203 grenade launcher. Talk about a neat weapon system. The M203 attaches to the M16 rifle and is fired directly from the rifle. This class was short and we moved directly into firing on the range. Talk about a weapon that packs some punch. Great day (very rewarding) after qualification). Tomorrow will be very interesting!
Matthew
BRM-Qualification Day
27 July 2011
Day 39
0415 wake up today and no PT! First formation was at 0600. We had field chow in the CTA (area of our barracks). We took trans to the Qualification Range and "set up shop." 2nd and 3rd platoon got to go first while 1st and 4th platoons conducted concurrent training. The concurrent training consisted of working on front, left, and right firing positions when engaging the enemy.
1045 was my platoon and 4th platoon's turn to go. Same format as the practice days; 40 rounds to hit 40 targets. I was in the 11th firing order on lane 6. The weather was overcast yet humid as you know what. Around 12:00, I was done and qualified! Felt good to be done with that! In 1st platoon all but 5 qualified on the first attempt. Still waiting to hear if we won the streamer or not.
We qualification was over (around 14:00) we conducted more concurrent training and went over Buddy Movements under fire (placement behind cover while moving in successive bounds).
We returned to the barracks around 16:00 and conducted "heat dumps" (really cold showers) and cleaned our rifles. Chow was at 18:00 and we pretty much did bay maintenance until lights out and 21:00.
This Saturday we have our 2nd APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test). My goal is at least a 225. I got a 208 last time. Passing is 150.
Matthew
Day 39
0415 wake up today and no PT! First formation was at 0600. We had field chow in the CTA (area of our barracks). We took trans to the Qualification Range and "set up shop." 2nd and 3rd platoon got to go first while 1st and 4th platoons conducted concurrent training. The concurrent training consisted of working on front, left, and right firing positions when engaging the enemy.
1045 was my platoon and 4th platoon's turn to go. Same format as the practice days; 40 rounds to hit 40 targets. I was in the 11th firing order on lane 6. The weather was overcast yet humid as you know what. Around 12:00, I was done and qualified! Felt good to be done with that! In 1st platoon all but 5 qualified on the first attempt. Still waiting to hear if we won the streamer or not.
We qualification was over (around 14:00) we conducted more concurrent training and went over Buddy Movements under fire (placement behind cover while moving in successive bounds).
We returned to the barracks around 16:00 and conducted "heat dumps" (really cold showers) and cleaned our rifles. Chow was at 18:00 and we pretty much did bay maintenance until lights out and 21:00.
This Saturday we have our 2nd APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test). My goal is at least a 225. I got a 208 last time. Passing is 150.
Matthew
A Visitation at 30th AG (Reception)
26 July 2011
Day 38
Early AM wake-up at 0345 with PT starting at 0445. The reason for this was that we visited the 30th AG today for our ASU fitting (dress uniforms). The ASU consists of blue trousers, black coat with gold buttons, what I like to call "tuxedo" shoes, and our black baret. Oh yeah, also a white shirt. The Army switched to these about a year ago from the green ones. I really like them. I think they look very sharp. These uniforms were tailored on site for us and the whole process took approximately 4 hours. We also received a black trench coat, black leather gloves and all the "brass" pins for our uniforms as well. The whole company finished around 15:30 and we took "trans" or buses back to our barracks.
The afternoon/late afternoon consisted of "battle drill" classes. Battle drills are tactical movements at the team, squad and platoon level. I will not go into detail on these because I took 3 pages of notes, so I may include this as a blog one Sunday.
Tomorrow is BRM (rifle qualification). Wish the platoon luck for 100% qualification! Hope all is well!
Matthew
Day 38
Early AM wake-up at 0345 with PT starting at 0445. The reason for this was that we visited the 30th AG today for our ASU fitting (dress uniforms). The ASU consists of blue trousers, black coat with gold buttons, what I like to call "tuxedo" shoes, and our black baret. Oh yeah, also a white shirt. The Army switched to these about a year ago from the green ones. I really like them. I think they look very sharp. These uniforms were tailored on site for us and the whole process took approximately 4 hours. We also received a black trench coat, black leather gloves and all the "brass" pins for our uniforms as well. The whole company finished around 15:30 and we took "trans" or buses back to our barracks.
The afternoon/late afternoon consisted of "battle drill" classes. Battle drills are tactical movements at the team, squad and platoon level. I will not go into detail on these because I took 3 pages of notes, so I may include this as a blog one Sunday.
Tomorrow is BRM (rifle qualification). Wish the platoon luck for 100% qualification! Hope all is well!
Matthew
Two Big Challenges Today: Ruck & Pre-Qualification
25 July 2011
Day 37
Today our platoon woke up at 0345 and was outside in formation by 0430 to begin our first challenge of the day: the 8k Ruck March. The 8k Ruck march (roughly 5 miles) began at the barracks and ended at the pre-qualification rifle range, where we would spend the rest of the day. We stopped only once for 10 mins. I personally thought the company did really well. The gear weighed around 30 lbs, so 5 miles of carrying 30 lbs was challenging. We are preparing for the 16k (10 mile) ruck march at the end of the cycle, which will be one of our last big tests. It was very humid this AM, so I was sweating like crazy! I liked marching while it was still dark though, especially when sunrise came around.
The second challenge of the day was Basic Rifle Marksmanship (Pre-qualification). Pre-Qual works pretty much the same as the practice we've had. We were given 40 rounds to hit 40 targets at 3 different positions (prone supported, prone un-supported and the kneeling position).
By the end of the day (16:30), it was my turn at the pre-qual range. This made me happy, as I was struggling a little at first and my weapon jammed twice as well. This gives me confidence going into Qualification day on Wednesday.
We had a locker inspection at 18:00 and the platoon did ok. We have a lot of things to work on. We seem to be getting the "obvious" things right. But the DSs are looking for the small things to be done right! Attention to detail!
Matthew
Day 37
Today our platoon woke up at 0345 and was outside in formation by 0430 to begin our first challenge of the day: the 8k Ruck March. The 8k Ruck march (roughly 5 miles) began at the barracks and ended at the pre-qualification rifle range, where we would spend the rest of the day. We stopped only once for 10 mins. I personally thought the company did really well. The gear weighed around 30 lbs, so 5 miles of carrying 30 lbs was challenging. We are preparing for the 16k (10 mile) ruck march at the end of the cycle, which will be one of our last big tests. It was very humid this AM, so I was sweating like crazy! I liked marching while it was still dark though, especially when sunrise came around.
The second challenge of the day was Basic Rifle Marksmanship (Pre-qualification). Pre-Qual works pretty much the same as the practice we've had. We were given 40 rounds to hit 40 targets at 3 different positions (prone supported, prone un-supported and the kneeling position).
By the end of the day (16:30), it was my turn at the pre-qual range. This made me happy, as I was struggling a little at first and my weapon jammed twice as well. This gives me confidence going into Qualification day on Wednesday.
We had a locker inspection at 18:00 and the platoon did ok. We have a lot of things to work on. We seem to be getting the "obvious" things right. But the DSs are looking for the small things to be done right! Attention to detail!
Matthew
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Productive/Relaxing Sunday
24 July 2011
The company officially moved into "white phase" last night. White phase is the second phase of our training that usually lasts three weeks. We will be getting a few more privileges in white phase such as: eating with a fork now instead of a spoon, we got to sleep to 5:30 this morning, one hour of personal time each night, etc. Our platoon was excited about this and it showed today.
We cleaned the bay all day including waxing the floor, cleaning our lockers, washing clothes, cleaning gear, and the latrines. The guys worked their butts off and so I gave them some extra personal time. Our drill sergeants were not here today; which is another privilege of white phase for us and them. I think they will be impressed with the bay in the AM.
Everything seems to be going well. We have an 8k (roughly 5 mile) ruck march tomorrow morning so we hydrated all day for that. At the half-way point my body is a little tired, but I am good to go for the next 5 weeks. We have some good training planned for this week, including rifle qualifications, getting fitted for our Army Service Uniforms, and our 2nd PT test. Should be a great week! Hope all is well!
Matthew
The company officially moved into "white phase" last night. White phase is the second phase of our training that usually lasts three weeks. We will be getting a few more privileges in white phase such as: eating with a fork now instead of a spoon, we got to sleep to 5:30 this morning, one hour of personal time each night, etc. Our platoon was excited about this and it showed today.
We cleaned the bay all day including waxing the floor, cleaning our lockers, washing clothes, cleaning gear, and the latrines. The guys worked their butts off and so I gave them some extra personal time. Our drill sergeants were not here today; which is another privilege of white phase for us and them. I think they will be impressed with the bay in the AM.
Everything seems to be going well. We have an 8k (roughly 5 mile) ruck march tomorrow morning so we hydrated all day for that. At the half-way point my body is a little tired, but I am good to go for the next 5 weeks. We have some good training planned for this week, including rifle qualifications, getting fitted for our Army Service Uniforms, and our 2nd PT test. Should be a great week! Hope all is well!
Matthew
Qualification Practice
23 July 2011
Hot day at Ft. Benning today! Wake up @ 0400, PT @ 0515 and breakfast @ 0800. The company was bused to the practice range @ 0900 to practice on the pop-up targets with our M16. To qualify next week, we must hit 23 of 40 targets ranging from 50 meters to 300 meters; using only iron sights (no scope).
I had some good practice time. I shot about 120 rounds and did ok. I am confident I will qualify, but my goal is to hit at least 30. The M16 is a great shooting rifle. Not too much kick and very accurate. A lot of the drill sergeants like the M4 rifle (smaller, less bulky). I may just need to purchase one to practice and stay on top of my shooting skills.
Today is the end of the 5th week of training. Actually, 4 1/2 weeks. Only five more weeks of training and 3 recovery days for family day and graduation! Looking forward to that and being back in Athens with Jesica and friends! Hope all is well with everyone!
Matthew
Hot day at Ft. Benning today! Wake up @ 0400, PT @ 0515 and breakfast @ 0800. The company was bused to the practice range @ 0900 to practice on the pop-up targets with our M16. To qualify next week, we must hit 23 of 40 targets ranging from 50 meters to 300 meters; using only iron sights (no scope).
I had some good practice time. I shot about 120 rounds and did ok. I am confident I will qualify, but my goal is to hit at least 30. The M16 is a great shooting rifle. Not too much kick and very accurate. A lot of the drill sergeants like the M4 rifle (smaller, less bulky). I may just need to purchase one to practice and stay on top of my shooting skills.
Today is the end of the 5th week of training. Actually, 4 1/2 weeks. Only five more weeks of training and 3 recovery days for family day and graduation! Looking forward to that and being back in Athens with Jesica and friends! Hope all is well with everyone!
Matthew
Monday, July 25, 2011
BRM simulator and Level 1 Army Combatives
22 July 2011
Today was a very productive day. We had a 0400 wake up call and PT at 0530. We did our Ability Group Run today and A-group ran a little over 2 1/2 miles. We went directly to chow after PT and marched to the simulator round 0845. We practiced pop up targets at the simulators. Since we will be qualifying next week on "pop ups." I was not feeling comfortable at first, but ended up hitting 35 out of 40. We finished around 11:45 and marched back to the barracks for MRE chow.
This afternoon was spent learning Army Combatives. This was the highlight of the day. We had an ex-Army Ranger come teach us and the good part is that we have 2 more weeks of it. Talk about finding out if you are in shape or not. The day ended about 1600 and we did some Drill and Ceremony practice in the bay. Very hot today! Can't wait for the weekend!
Matthew
Today was a very productive day. We had a 0400 wake up call and PT at 0530. We did our Ability Group Run today and A-group ran a little over 2 1/2 miles. We went directly to chow after PT and marched to the simulator round 0845. We practiced pop up targets at the simulators. Since we will be qualifying next week on "pop ups." I was not feeling comfortable at first, but ended up hitting 35 out of 40. We finished around 11:45 and marched back to the barracks for MRE chow.
This afternoon was spent learning Army Combatives. This was the highlight of the day. We had an ex-Army Ranger come teach us and the good part is that we have 2 more weeks of it. Talk about finding out if you are in shape or not. The day ended about 1600 and we did some Drill and Ceremony practice in the bay. Very hot today! Can't wait for the weekend!
Matthew
BRM Continued...
21 July 2011
Wake-up at 0400 today. PT at 0530. Chow in the DFAC @ 0730 and off on a ruck march to the range at 0845. Today continued BRM @ the LOMAH Range. I'm feeling confident I will qualify next week, but I am going to continue to practice the drills we were given.
Not much to talk about today. We were on the range all day until 17:00. Chow was @ 18:30 and tonight we started a little bay maintenance for our big inspection Sunday.
The platoon is doing pretty good. We are scheduled to move into "white phase" this Sunday. With white phase comes more freedom (phone, time, sleep, etc). We are very excited for that!
I am going to try to cover some other topics again Sunday, time permitting. So until then...Goodnight from Ft. Benning!
Matthew
Wake-up at 0400 today. PT at 0530. Chow in the DFAC @ 0730 and off on a ruck march to the range at 0845. Today continued BRM @ the LOMAH Range. I'm feeling confident I will qualify next week, but I am going to continue to practice the drills we were given.
Not much to talk about today. We were on the range all day until 17:00. Chow was @ 18:30 and tonight we started a little bay maintenance for our big inspection Sunday.
The platoon is doing pretty good. We are scheduled to move into "white phase" this Sunday. With white phase comes more freedom (phone, time, sleep, etc). We are very excited for that!
I am going to try to cover some other topics again Sunday, time permitting. So until then...Goodnight from Ft. Benning!
Matthew
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Happy 8th Month Anniversary to my Wife & more BRM
20 July 2011
First and foremost, I want to say that I have been married to my wife for eight months today! Thought about her a lot today and how this experience is making us both stronger as a person and a couple!
Day 3 of BRM; but no duty squad. I decided to take myself off duty squad for two reasons. I felt that I needed to spend more time in the bay with the platoon and I was also missing PT. Jesica always tells me I have too many irons in the fire, so I took her advice and relieved myself of Duty Squad.
Wake-up @ 0400 and PT @ 0545. Ate chow at the DRAC which was nice. We were at the LOMAH range today or "Location of Misses and Hits." This range was equipped with a sensor that told the drill sergeants where we were hitting and missing the target. We were zeroing our rifles at 175 meters and 300 meters. I am proud to report that I zeroed both targets in only 16 rounds. I could not believe it. I am not big on guns, so I was worried that I would have trouble zeroing. So talk about a confidence booster. We did learn some good techniques (breathing, trigger squeeze, etc) which played a huge role in zeroing. Looking forward to tomorrow!
Matthew
First and foremost, I want to say that I have been married to my wife for eight months today! Thought about her a lot today and how this experience is making us both stronger as a person and a couple!
Day 3 of BRM; but no duty squad. I decided to take myself off duty squad for two reasons. I felt that I needed to spend more time in the bay with the platoon and I was also missing PT. Jesica always tells me I have too many irons in the fire, so I took her advice and relieved myself of Duty Squad.
Wake-up @ 0400 and PT @ 0545. Ate chow at the DRAC which was nice. We were at the LOMAH range today or "Location of Misses and Hits." This range was equipped with a sensor that told the drill sergeants where we were hitting and missing the target. We were zeroing our rifles at 175 meters and 300 meters. I am proud to report that I zeroed both targets in only 16 rounds. I could not believe it. I am not big on guns, so I was worried that I would have trouble zeroing. So talk about a confidence booster. We did learn some good techniques (breathing, trigger squeeze, etc) which played a huge role in zeroing. Looking forward to tomorrow!
Matthew
Day 2 of BRM
19 July 2011
Duty squad was up at 03:15 again. No PT again for duty squad, but basically the same duties as yesterday. The company arrived at the range around 07:30 for field chow and went straight to shooting after that. I shot around 11:15 this morning and did surprisingly well. Took me about 20 mins to group at 25 meters with a 300 meter size target. Really neat process. Will describe later.
Long day at the range. The guys who did not get a "go" yesterday had to finish trying today. I was proud of my platoon. We had all our guys "go" before any other platoon came close. Hopefully, we can keep that up and all qualify in a couple of weeks. Very tired tonight. Got some letters from friends/family and some pics from Jesica of her and Baxter. Those were nice to see!
Short blog today/tonight! Light out at 20:00. Nice!
Matthew
Duty squad was up at 03:15 again. No PT again for duty squad, but basically the same duties as yesterday. The company arrived at the range around 07:30 for field chow and went straight to shooting after that. I shot around 11:15 this morning and did surprisingly well. Took me about 20 mins to group at 25 meters with a 300 meter size target. Really neat process. Will describe later.
Long day at the range. The guys who did not get a "go" yesterday had to finish trying today. I was proud of my platoon. We had all our guys "go" before any other platoon came close. Hopefully, we can keep that up and all qualify in a couple of weeks. Very tired tonight. Got some letters from friends/family and some pics from Jesica of her and Baxter. Those were nice to see!
Short blog today/tonight! Light out at 20:00. Nice!
Matthew
BRM (Basic Rifle Marksmanship) LIVE!
18 July 2011
Today started week 1 of 3 of BRM. It also started my platoon's week of Duty squad. 12 of us are on duty squad, which basically sets up all the range activities for the company during training. The duty squad consists of guys that have passed their APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test). Myself and 11 others woke up this morning @ 0315 to begin our duties. We loaded a huge truck with equipment, ice chests, MREs, etc. Then we deliver it to the range for training. This week is BRM, so we set the shooting range up with the proper equipment. Nothing to it, just waking up 45 mins earlier and staying about 2 hours after to clean up.
BRM is good stuff. I don't know about you, but when I think of a soldier, or the Military in general, I think about guns/weapons. So the next 3 weeks to me will seem like that "right of passage" to "soldierhood." I did not get to fire to day because we ran behind schedule. It was nice though hearing the rifles and seeing peoples enthusiasm. The company is working on grouping today and tomorrow. Basically, they are seeing if we know anything about firing a weapon. The company left the range at 16:30, but duty squad stayed until 18:30. I was dead tired when I got back to the barracks. We even missed chow so we had to eat a MRE. Lights out at 2100 and I am so glad.
I can't remember if I mentioned this is my last blog or not, but I got to talk to Jesica last night for the first time in almost 3 weeks! It was very relieving to hear her voice! If everything goes wrong this week, at least I got to talk to her and that alone tops it all!
Matthew
Today started week 1 of 3 of BRM. It also started my platoon's week of Duty squad. 12 of us are on duty squad, which basically sets up all the range activities for the company during training. The duty squad consists of guys that have passed their APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test). Myself and 11 others woke up this morning @ 0315 to begin our duties. We loaded a huge truck with equipment, ice chests, MREs, etc. Then we deliver it to the range for training. This week is BRM, so we set the shooting range up with the proper equipment. Nothing to it, just waking up 45 mins earlier and staying about 2 hours after to clean up.
BRM is good stuff. I don't know about you, but when I think of a soldier, or the Military in general, I think about guns/weapons. So the next 3 weeks to me will seem like that "right of passage" to "soldierhood." I did not get to fire to day because we ran behind schedule. It was nice though hearing the rifles and seeing peoples enthusiasm. The company is working on grouping today and tomorrow. Basically, they are seeing if we know anything about firing a weapon. The company left the range at 16:30, but duty squad stayed until 18:30. I was dead tired when I got back to the barracks. We even missed chow so we had to eat a MRE. Lights out at 2100 and I am so glad.
I can't remember if I mentioned this is my last blog or not, but I got to talk to Jesica last night for the first time in almost 3 weeks! It was very relieving to hear her voice! If everything goes wrong this week, at least I got to talk to her and that alone tops it all!
Matthew
A Typical Sunday and Various Topics
17 July 2011
Wake up was at 0500 today. The extra hour makes such a difference. Chow formation was not until 0750 so I was about to get some things done (washing, cleaning my locker, and organizing my stuff). Chow at 0800. I had a few tasks as PG (Platoon guide) to do before chow @1230. The afternoon was spent cleaning the barracks and practicing our rifle drills. Great day of rest and "housekeeping."
I wanted to take the day to write a paragraph or two about a few topics I mention all the time, but do not cover in depth.
Drill Sergeants: Our platoon is assigned 3 drill sergeants. Senior DS Gonzalez, DS Sutherland, and DS Stockton. SDS Gonzalez was originally a Tanker Sergeant. Basically, he is in charge of a tank platoon which supervises the utilization of tanks and all personnel. You can tell he really knows his stuff and seems to provide great leadership for the other two DS. DS Sutherland is an 11 Bravo or Infantryman. He teaches us a lot about tactical combat and is really on PT issues. DS Sutherland was involved in the largest firefight in Afghanistan. DS Stockton, an ex-marine, decided to come over from the "dark side" and be a drill sergeant for the Army. He is very strong in all aspects of basic training, but specializes in Drill and ceremony and Rifle marksmanship. His original job in the Army was repairing helicopters. Drill Sergeants are picked from the top 10% of the Army. Basically, they know their stuff and are able to relay it to other well.
Chow: One of my favorite parts of BCT thus far is Chow. The food is amazing here, especially the breakfast. We usually have 5 mins to eat, so I have learned to make "sandwiches" out of everything. My favorite is making a waffle, egg, bacon, and cheese "sandwich" (2 waffles acting as the bread). Syrup over it and you have a great breakfast. The fruits and veggies are always fresh. I also have another chow favorite: pasta salad with bacon bits, cheese, and banana peppers. Pretty tasty as well! Sometimes we have MREs (Meals Ready to Eat). Google that and read up on them. They are very good as well. Sometimes I mention field chow, which means we get food sent to us from the DFAC out into the field.
"Smoking": Smoking is when a DS punishes the platoon. The consists of push-ups, sit-ups, or any other PT exercise of his choice. Usually lasts about 30 mins. I believe this has happened to us about 5 times. Other have not lasted quite 30 mins. It teaches us a lesson that's for sure!
Destroying the Bay: This happens when bunks are not made to standard. The DS will flip the ones that aren't made correctly. Also, if a wall locker is left open then everything will be tossed around the bay-EVERYTHING! One night it took us 4 hours to clean everything up! We learned fairly quickly!
That is all for now. I will touch on a few other topics in the future!
Matthew
Wake up was at 0500 today. The extra hour makes such a difference. Chow formation was not until 0750 so I was about to get some things done (washing, cleaning my locker, and organizing my stuff). Chow at 0800. I had a few tasks as PG (Platoon guide) to do before chow @1230. The afternoon was spent cleaning the barracks and practicing our rifle drills. Great day of rest and "housekeeping."
I wanted to take the day to write a paragraph or two about a few topics I mention all the time, but do not cover in depth.
Drill Sergeants: Our platoon is assigned 3 drill sergeants. Senior DS Gonzalez, DS Sutherland, and DS Stockton. SDS Gonzalez was originally a Tanker Sergeant. Basically, he is in charge of a tank platoon which supervises the utilization of tanks and all personnel. You can tell he really knows his stuff and seems to provide great leadership for the other two DS. DS Sutherland is an 11 Bravo or Infantryman. He teaches us a lot about tactical combat and is really on PT issues. DS Sutherland was involved in the largest firefight in Afghanistan. DS Stockton, an ex-marine, decided to come over from the "dark side" and be a drill sergeant for the Army. He is very strong in all aspects of basic training, but specializes in Drill and ceremony and Rifle marksmanship. His original job in the Army was repairing helicopters. Drill Sergeants are picked from the top 10% of the Army. Basically, they know their stuff and are able to relay it to other well.
Chow: One of my favorite parts of BCT thus far is Chow. The food is amazing here, especially the breakfast. We usually have 5 mins to eat, so I have learned to make "sandwiches" out of everything. My favorite is making a waffle, egg, bacon, and cheese "sandwich" (2 waffles acting as the bread). Syrup over it and you have a great breakfast. The fruits and veggies are always fresh. I also have another chow favorite: pasta salad with bacon bits, cheese, and banana peppers. Pretty tasty as well! Sometimes we have MREs (Meals Ready to Eat). Google that and read up on them. They are very good as well. Sometimes I mention field chow, which means we get food sent to us from the DFAC out into the field.
"Smoking": Smoking is when a DS punishes the platoon. The consists of push-ups, sit-ups, or any other PT exercise of his choice. Usually lasts about 30 mins. I believe this has happened to us about 5 times. Other have not lasted quite 30 mins. It teaches us a lesson that's for sure!
Destroying the Bay: This happens when bunks are not made to standard. The DS will flip the ones that aren't made correctly. Also, if a wall locker is left open then everything will be tossed around the bay-EVERYTHING! One night it took us 4 hours to clean everything up! We learned fairly quickly!
That is all for now. I will touch on a few other topics in the future!
Matthew
Rainy Day at Ft. Benning
16 July 2011
Wake up was @ 0400 today. I forgot to mention that we had lights out last night at 2000 hours. I was excited to get around 6 1/2 hrs of sleep. I felt refreshed and ready to have a great Saturday. We went outside for PT @ 0545 and it was misting rain and actually a little cool. PT lasted about an hour and chow was at 0730.
Today, we began drills and exercises for BRM (Basic Rifle Marksmanship). We practice balancing a dime on the end of our rifle barrel while aiming and pulling the trigger. We also worked on keep our site picture by placing our rifles in a holding dot and siting them to a blank sheet of paper while someone moved a target on our command.
The highlight of the day was two-fold. The first was using the simulator. The simulator allowed us to lay in a prone position and fire a rifle (while also simulated recoil) to a target down range. The simulator was in a huge modular trailer (about the size of 3 trailer put together) and it had all of the details of a shooting range. For you golfer, imagine the golf simulators at the PGA Superstore and that would be a fair comparison. We stayed at the simulator for 2 hours and it helped tremendously with my grouping effort.
The second highlight of the day was getting to go to the PX (Post Exchange) and a haircut. What an experience. I only needed a few things (soap, paper, laundry detergent). The haircut was great, but before I got mine, this one guy in my platoon asked me what my wife thought about my hair turning gray at 29. I got a big kick out of that and told him that she tells me she likes it, but threatens to make me an appointment with a hair coloring specialist! (just kidding Jesica)
When finished with the haircut and PX, we marched back to the barracks (about 2 miles). We had been marching only 5 minutes when the bottom fell out. Needless to say, we were soaked. Some of my items got wet, but nothing was ruined. We got back to the barracks and cleaned our rifles. Chow was at 1900 and lights out at 2100. No fireguard or duties tonight! Rest here I come!
Matthew
Wake up was @ 0400 today. I forgot to mention that we had lights out last night at 2000 hours. I was excited to get around 6 1/2 hrs of sleep. I felt refreshed and ready to have a great Saturday. We went outside for PT @ 0545 and it was misting rain and actually a little cool. PT lasted about an hour and chow was at 0730.
Today, we began drills and exercises for BRM (Basic Rifle Marksmanship). We practice balancing a dime on the end of our rifle barrel while aiming and pulling the trigger. We also worked on keep our site picture by placing our rifles in a holding dot and siting them to a blank sheet of paper while someone moved a target on our command.
The highlight of the day was two-fold. The first was using the simulator. The simulator allowed us to lay in a prone position and fire a rifle (while also simulated recoil) to a target down range. The simulator was in a huge modular trailer (about the size of 3 trailer put together) and it had all of the details of a shooting range. For you golfer, imagine the golf simulators at the PGA Superstore and that would be a fair comparison. We stayed at the simulator for 2 hours and it helped tremendously with my grouping effort.
The second highlight of the day was getting to go to the PX (Post Exchange) and a haircut. What an experience. I only needed a few things (soap, paper, laundry detergent). The haircut was great, but before I got mine, this one guy in my platoon asked me what my wife thought about my hair turning gray at 29. I got a big kick out of that and told him that she tells me she likes it, but threatens to make me an appointment with a hair coloring specialist! (just kidding Jesica)
When finished with the haircut and PX, we marched back to the barracks (about 2 miles). We had been marching only 5 minutes when the bottom fell out. Needless to say, we were soaked. Some of my items got wet, but nothing was ruined. We got back to the barracks and cleaned our rifles. Chow was at 1900 and lights out at 2100. No fireguard or duties tonight! Rest here I come!
Matthew
Lieutenant Dan was Right: Day 2 of FTX
15 July 2011
I'm sure everyone has seen the movie Forrest Gump, or at least that is what I am going to assume. I am constantly reminded of the Army scene where Lieutenant Dan tells his platoon to "take care of their feet" by always changing their socks. I now have 3 new best friends compliments of the U.S. Army: 1) sock liners 2) mole skin 3) foot powder. It doesn't matter if I'm soaking wet with sweat, rain, or covered in dirt and mud, if my socks are fresh then I can pretty much go all day! Thanks Lieutenant Dan!
Day 2 of Field Training Exercise 1 started with a 0500 wake up. Still pitch black dark the platoon packed their gear, filled in their "beds" and got dressed to start the day. We waited until 0645 and marched to chow at the TOC. Same format applied for this chow as well, eating while laying in the weeds. We had a full day of instructional learning: formation moving, hand signals, how to crawl with weapons and other tactical formations. The drill sergeants even launched a few blank rounds so we could practice our "INCOMING!!" We ended in the field around 1600 hrs. I will be honest, I was ready to get back and shower and get out the clothes I had been in for 36 hrs. We had dinner in the DFAC and a nice warm shower. FTX 1 down, 2 to go.
Matthew
I'm sure everyone has seen the movie Forrest Gump, or at least that is what I am going to assume. I am constantly reminded of the Army scene where Lieutenant Dan tells his platoon to "take care of their feet" by always changing their socks. I now have 3 new best friends compliments of the U.S. Army: 1) sock liners 2) mole skin 3) foot powder. It doesn't matter if I'm soaking wet with sweat, rain, or covered in dirt and mud, if my socks are fresh then I can pretty much go all day! Thanks Lieutenant Dan!
Day 2 of Field Training Exercise 1 started with a 0500 wake up. Still pitch black dark the platoon packed their gear, filled in their "beds" and got dressed to start the day. We waited until 0645 and marched to chow at the TOC. Same format applied for this chow as well, eating while laying in the weeds. We had a full day of instructional learning: formation moving, hand signals, how to crawl with weapons and other tactical formations. The drill sergeants even launched a few blank rounds so we could practice our "INCOMING!!" We ended in the field around 1600 hrs. I will be honest, I was ready to get back and shower and get out the clothes I had been in for 36 hrs. We had dinner in the DFAC and a nice warm shower. FTX 1 down, 2 to go.
Matthew
FTX 1- Field Training Exercise 1 (Camping at Ft. Benning, GA in July)
14 July 2011
Today started @ 0400 with a wake-up alarm. Not the most pleasant sound to start the day. We went to PT at 0500 and chow @ 0630. Our platoon had 45 mins to pack our ruck (a big hiking pack) and be in formation. Going by the list provided, I knew this would not be like any other camping trip I had ever been on.
We took a ten minute bus ride across the base, gear in hand, anxiously awaiting the task before us. We were dropped at a gravel road that looked to be miles and miles long. We set out and marched about 2 miles and took a right down a dirt road. Another mile down the road and we took a left into the woods. We traveled about a quarter of a mile into the woods where we stopped and dropped our gear. The first thing we did was listen to the drill sergeants talk about Patrol Bases, which we were about to set up. Also, they gave us a class on hand signals and how to survive out in the field.
The platoon formed a triangle "patrol base." Imagine 58 soldiers, in pairs of 2, in an equilateral triangle. The platoon guide (myself) and the assistant platoon guide were set up in the middle of the triangle. Our first objective was to establish a place to sleep. We were instructed on how to make a "hasty" or "hooch" or "ranger grave". Basically it is an 18" deep hole dug at a slight angle, just wide and long enough for your body. We dug 2 and connected them at the feet so "battle buddies" could easily wake each other up in case of an emergency. We used what we call an "e-tool" or what looks like a toy shovel, but proved to be very sturdy. It took us about 3 hours to dig the hole, thanks to the infamous Georgia red clay. Once the hole was established we connected our ponchos and drapped them across a make shift frame over the hole to provide a cover. The concept was to not make the cover any higher than the ground or grass around you. Mine and APG's rose about 8" off the ground. Very tight quarters. By now it was 18:30 and time for chow.
We marched about 800 meters to the TOC or Tactical Operating Center, where they had field chow set up for us. Since we were on a simulated mission, we had to get our food and go lay down in the woods and eat while pulling patrol. A few ants never hurt anyone!
We marched back to our patrol base and had a couple of classes on claymoore mines, RPGs, etc. We were given 15 mins to fix our "hooch" like we wanted them. I stuck my sleeping bag on the dirt and let that be it. Both the APG and myself slept in our clothes and boots. I tossed and turned for several hours, but I finally hit a comfy spot and slept like a rock. Or maybe I meant to say I felt like I was sleeping on a rock. Either way, I slept ok and got a little help from mother nature: RAIN! What an experience.
Matthew
Today started @ 0400 with a wake-up alarm. Not the most pleasant sound to start the day. We went to PT at 0500 and chow @ 0630. Our platoon had 45 mins to pack our ruck (a big hiking pack) and be in formation. Going by the list provided, I knew this would not be like any other camping trip I had ever been on.
We took a ten minute bus ride across the base, gear in hand, anxiously awaiting the task before us. We were dropped at a gravel road that looked to be miles and miles long. We set out and marched about 2 miles and took a right down a dirt road. Another mile down the road and we took a left into the woods. We traveled about a quarter of a mile into the woods where we stopped and dropped our gear. The first thing we did was listen to the drill sergeants talk about Patrol Bases, which we were about to set up. Also, they gave us a class on hand signals and how to survive out in the field.
The platoon formed a triangle "patrol base." Imagine 58 soldiers, in pairs of 2, in an equilateral triangle. The platoon guide (myself) and the assistant platoon guide were set up in the middle of the triangle. Our first objective was to establish a place to sleep. We were instructed on how to make a "hasty" or "hooch" or "ranger grave". Basically it is an 18" deep hole dug at a slight angle, just wide and long enough for your body. We dug 2 and connected them at the feet so "battle buddies" could easily wake each other up in case of an emergency. We used what we call an "e-tool" or what looks like a toy shovel, but proved to be very sturdy. It took us about 3 hours to dig the hole, thanks to the infamous Georgia red clay. Once the hole was established we connected our ponchos and drapped them across a make shift frame over the hole to provide a cover. The concept was to not make the cover any higher than the ground or grass around you. Mine and APG's rose about 8" off the ground. Very tight quarters. By now it was 18:30 and time for chow.
We marched about 800 meters to the TOC or Tactical Operating Center, where they had field chow set up for us. Since we were on a simulated mission, we had to get our food and go lay down in the woods and eat while pulling patrol. A few ants never hurt anyone!
We marched back to our patrol base and had a couple of classes on claymoore mines, RPGs, etc. We were given 15 mins to fix our "hooch" like we wanted them. I stuck my sleeping bag on the dirt and let that be it. Both the APG and myself slept in our clothes and boots. I tossed and turned for several hours, but I finally hit a comfy spot and slept like a rock. Or maybe I meant to say I felt like I was sleeping on a rock. Either way, I slept ok and got a little help from mother nature: RAIN! What an experience.
Matthew
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Day 25
13 July 2011
Today was probably the most physically demanding day I've experienced at BCT thus far. Wake-up was @0400 and PT began at 0545. We quickly came back to the barracks and had field chow. Then we were off at 0730 on a 2 mile march to the "real" obstacle course. This course had 16 stations that consisted of things like rope climbing, monkey bars, crawling under barb wire through mud, running and crawling through sand, etc. We did a great job as a platoon! The heat was really rough on everyone! The company had about 5 people go down with heat related injuries. That is the last thing you want to do here because the first thing that has to happen is have your core body temperature taken. The protocol for that in the Army is putting a thermometer up your butt. I only had to hear that once and I have kept myself extra hydrated!
The afternoon was spent outside on the IED range. If you have not noticed, every learning station is referred to as a "range." The IED (Improvised Explosive Device) range showed us how they were made and the common placements of IEDs. This range had a small town built that mimicked Baghdad. The range instructors had IED materials spread out for learning points. Examples include, bridges, culverts, marketplaces, etc. It was really eye opening to see how smart the makers of these explosives are.
Tomorrow is our first FTX or Field Training Exercise. We will be camping out and sleeping in a "hole" we dig with our e-tools (shovels). Can't wait to write about this one!
Matthew
Today was probably the most physically demanding day I've experienced at BCT thus far. Wake-up was @0400 and PT began at 0545. We quickly came back to the barracks and had field chow. Then we were off at 0730 on a 2 mile march to the "real" obstacle course. This course had 16 stations that consisted of things like rope climbing, monkey bars, crawling under barb wire through mud, running and crawling through sand, etc. We did a great job as a platoon! The heat was really rough on everyone! The company had about 5 people go down with heat related injuries. That is the last thing you want to do here because the first thing that has to happen is have your core body temperature taken. The protocol for that in the Army is putting a thermometer up your butt. I only had to hear that once and I have kept myself extra hydrated!
The afternoon was spent outside on the IED range. If you have not noticed, every learning station is referred to as a "range." The IED (Improvised Explosive Device) range showed us how they were made and the common placements of IEDs. This range had a small town built that mimicked Baghdad. The range instructors had IED materials spread out for learning points. Examples include, bridges, culverts, marketplaces, etc. It was really eye opening to see how smart the makers of these explosives are.
Tomorrow is our first FTX or Field Training Exercise. We will be camping out and sleeping in a "hole" we dig with our e-tools (shovels). Can't wait to write about this one!
Matthew
Friday, July 15, 2011
A Hot Tuesday at Ft. Benning
12 July 2011
I have been at Ft. Benning BCT for 2 weeks today; not counting reception. Wake up @ 0400. PT @ 0600 and chow @ 0730. Today we marched about 1.5 miles to the Army Communications Range. Here we learned about the proper way to communicate over a radio, including pronunciation of certain calls, etc. The class was very interesting. We got to set up field radios and practice calls. The instructor told us that each radio cost about $13,000. I was surprised by the way it looked, but internally this radio has a number of features. After chow we came back to barracks and did what we call a heat dump. Basically, we have to stand under the showers on the coldest setting for one minute and let the water cool us off. I must say I love cold showers now! The afternoon was pretty relaxed as we took a class on sexual harrassment. After chow we had another class on basic rifle marksmanship. We were taught everything we needed to know about the firing range, including the proper procedures and expectations. Still no phone call tonight! I am hoping for one this weekend! I miss talking to Jesica a lot! We have never gone longer than 2 days, much less 2 weeks without talking!
We have our first FTX (Field Training Exercise) in a couple of days...camping out under the stars! Can't wait!
Matthew
I have been at Ft. Benning BCT for 2 weeks today; not counting reception. Wake up @ 0400. PT @ 0600 and chow @ 0730. Today we marched about 1.5 miles to the Army Communications Range. Here we learned about the proper way to communicate over a radio, including pronunciation of certain calls, etc. The class was very interesting. We got to set up field radios and practice calls. The instructor told us that each radio cost about $13,000. I was surprised by the way it looked, but internally this radio has a number of features. After chow we came back to barracks and did what we call a heat dump. Basically, we have to stand under the showers on the coldest setting for one minute and let the water cool us off. I must say I love cold showers now! The afternoon was pretty relaxed as we took a class on sexual harrassment. After chow we had another class on basic rifle marksmanship. We were taught everything we needed to know about the firing range, including the proper procedures and expectations. Still no phone call tonight! I am hoping for one this weekend! I miss talking to Jesica a lot! We have never gone longer than 2 days, much less 2 weeks without talking!
We have our first FTX (Field Training Exercise) in a couple of days...camping out under the stars! Can't wait!
Matthew
A Hot Monday at Ft. Benning, GA and First Aid Test
11 July 2011
Boy did 0400 come early! PT started at 0545 and chow at 0730. We were informed that we were being tested on our first aid classes today. So after chow we had a few minutes to look over our notes. We marched about 2 miles to the First Aid Range. Our first task was to take a 40 question test over Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC3). This test was a "streamer" event, which basically means the platoon that does the best wins the streamer to place on their platoon flag. I am happy to report that not only did our platoon win the streamer, but we are the only platoon over the past 10 cycles to not have anyone fail. I will be 100% honest and say that I am very surprised that all of our guys passed, but nevertheless I am proud of our whole platoon.
After the test, the whole company, broken down into squads (4-12 soldiers), performed a series of obstacles that simulated combat rescue scenarios and first aid scenarios. The squad I was with passed all of the obstacles, but we really struggled with one. Overall, I thought we did a great job!
We had been instructed to pack an extra pair of ACUs and socks in our Assault bags. Today, I found out why. Around 14:30 today, everyone was soaking wet with sweat. It was miserable. Luckily, no one passed out. I was telling Jesica in my letter to her that I think I am down around 185 lbs now. We pretty much have from 18:00-21:00 to clean wash and recover from today. All is well!
Matthew
Boy did 0400 come early! PT started at 0545 and chow at 0730. We were informed that we were being tested on our first aid classes today. So after chow we had a few minutes to look over our notes. We marched about 2 miles to the First Aid Range. Our first task was to take a 40 question test over Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC3). This test was a "streamer" event, which basically means the platoon that does the best wins the streamer to place on their platoon flag. I am happy to report that not only did our platoon win the streamer, but we are the only platoon over the past 10 cycles to not have anyone fail. I will be 100% honest and say that I am very surprised that all of our guys passed, but nevertheless I am proud of our whole platoon.
After the test, the whole company, broken down into squads (4-12 soldiers), performed a series of obstacles that simulated combat rescue scenarios and first aid scenarios. The squad I was with passed all of the obstacles, but we really struggled with one. Overall, I thought we did a great job!
We had been instructed to pack an extra pair of ACUs and socks in our Assault bags. Today, I found out why. Around 14:30 today, everyone was soaking wet with sweat. It was miserable. Luckily, no one passed out. I was telling Jesica in my letter to her that I think I am down around 185 lbs now. We pretty much have from 18:00-21:00 to clean wash and recover from today. All is well!
Matthew
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Sunday: A day of much needed rest
Wake up was at 06:30 this morning. No PT on Sundays, so we went to chow around 08:30. Then it was back to the barracks for some "Barracks Maintenance" aka cleaning. I went to Church/Protestant Bible Study at 13:30, which lasted until 14:30. I enjoyed the message, but the AC was broken so it was hot, hot, hot! Got back to the barracks around 15:00 and basically studied my field manual, wrote letters and washed clothes until time to bunk at 21:00. Very much needed day of rest. Sorry this blog is short, but I am going to bed on time tonight! Hope all is well!
Matthew
Matthew
Resiliency and Land Navigation
09 July 2011
Today was one of the longest days, if not the longest day I've had since I've been at Ft. Benning. The day started as usual with 0400 wake up, PT at 0545, and chow at 0730. The platoon came back to the barracks and had locker inspections by the drill sergeants. (Note* When I get to use my phone for the first time I am going to snap some pics to send to Jesica for posting to give everyone a visual*) My locker passed inspection, but I need to work on rolling my PT shorts tighter. From 10:00 to 12:00 we had soldier resiliency training. Basically, the Army wants soldiers to keep a balanced lifestyle physically and mentally. The course was actually really interesting and really stressed setting goals. Chow was at 13:30, then came the fun part. By this time, it was around 93 degrees outside and we were told to get our gear and line up in formation. Right now our gear consists of our Army combact uniform (ACU), fight load carrier (FLC), our assault pack, and our M16 and camelback. About 50 lbs worth of gear. We marched about a mile until we got to the Land navigation course where we performed three exercises. During the first exercise we (a team of 4) were given 5 points to find in the woods, using only a compass. Fairly simple, only the woods were very dense. Our squad completed the task and got 5 out of 5 right! The second exercise consisted of the squad using a map and converting to the corrected grid angle from the magnetic angle of Azimuth. We had to find 3 points. We found the first one but ran out of time because one of our squad members, my bunk mate Cheang, twisted his ankle. So instead of going on, we navigated to the nearest road and waited for help. Cheang is ok, but he rolled it pretty good. We would have found the points, but getting Cheang out of the woods was more important. We stopped around 20:00 hours for Chow (field chow) and were the given our exercises for night navigation. The moon was out, but it was also cloudy. Oh yeah, we could only use a back-lit compass and our "red" light (which has no range at all). Since Cheang was injured, only two of us went on this exercise and another guy stayed back with Cheang. We had to find 2 points and report back to the range leader in one hour. Myself and this guy we call Beetty found the last point with 3 minutes to go. By this time it was 23:30 and I was spent. I think I drank 3 camelbacks and 3 canteens of water. The whole platoon smelt like pigs and we were tired! Luckily, wake-up tomorrow isn't until 0600 hrs.
Matthew
Today was one of the longest days, if not the longest day I've had since I've been at Ft. Benning. The day started as usual with 0400 wake up, PT at 0545, and chow at 0730. The platoon came back to the barracks and had locker inspections by the drill sergeants. (Note* When I get to use my phone for the first time I am going to snap some pics to send to Jesica for posting to give everyone a visual*) My locker passed inspection, but I need to work on rolling my PT shorts tighter. From 10:00 to 12:00 we had soldier resiliency training. Basically, the Army wants soldiers to keep a balanced lifestyle physically and mentally. The course was actually really interesting and really stressed setting goals. Chow was at 13:30, then came the fun part. By this time, it was around 93 degrees outside and we were told to get our gear and line up in formation. Right now our gear consists of our Army combact uniform (ACU), fight load carrier (FLC), our assault pack, and our M16 and camelback. About 50 lbs worth of gear. We marched about a mile until we got to the Land navigation course where we performed three exercises. During the first exercise we (a team of 4) were given 5 points to find in the woods, using only a compass. Fairly simple, only the woods were very dense. Our squad completed the task and got 5 out of 5 right! The second exercise consisted of the squad using a map and converting to the corrected grid angle from the magnetic angle of Azimuth. We had to find 3 points. We found the first one but ran out of time because one of our squad members, my bunk mate Cheang, twisted his ankle. So instead of going on, we navigated to the nearest road and waited for help. Cheang is ok, but he rolled it pretty good. We would have found the points, but getting Cheang out of the woods was more important. We stopped around 20:00 hours for Chow (field chow) and were the given our exercises for night navigation. The moon was out, but it was also cloudy. Oh yeah, we could only use a back-lit compass and our "red" light (which has no range at all). Since Cheang was injured, only two of us went on this exercise and another guy stayed back with Cheang. We had to find 2 points and report back to the range leader in one hour. Myself and this guy we call Beetty found the last point with 3 minutes to go. By this time it was 23:30 and I was spent. I think I drank 3 camelbacks and 3 canteens of water. The whole platoon smelt like pigs and we were tired! Luckily, wake-up tomorrow isn't until 0600 hrs.
Matthew
Monday, July 11, 2011
First Aid- Day 2 & PT test
08 July 2011
Up and at em @ 0400 this AM. We had our first "Red Phase" PT test this AM. The test consists of 2 mins to do push-ups, 2 minutes to do sit-ups and a 2 mile run. I am required to get at least a 150 to pass. Luckily I scored a 208 which was good, but I was sort of disappointed. I want to max this thing out by the end of BCT. I would have to sore a 300, which would be about 77 push ups, 72 sit ups, and a 13:20 2 mile run. Easier said than done, that's for sure.
Chow was @ 0800 and for the rest of the day we sat in First Aid classes. One more day of that and next week I believe we go to the range to shoot our rifles. Sorry such a short blog tonight, but I am really tired. I think I will get some good rest!
Matthew
Up and at em @ 0400 this AM. We had our first "Red Phase" PT test this AM. The test consists of 2 mins to do push-ups, 2 minutes to do sit-ups and a 2 mile run. I am required to get at least a 150 to pass. Luckily I scored a 208 which was good, but I was sort of disappointed. I want to max this thing out by the end of BCT. I would have to sore a 300, which would be about 77 push ups, 72 sit ups, and a 13:20 2 mile run. Easier said than done, that's for sure.
Chow was @ 0800 and for the rest of the day we sat in First Aid classes. One more day of that and next week I believe we go to the range to shoot our rifles. Sorry such a short blog tonight, but I am really tired. I think I will get some good rest!
Matthew
First Aid Day!
07 July 2011
Woke up at 0400 this AM, with PT at 0530. Chow @ 0800 and at 0900 we went into the Battalion classroom for our first day of First Aid Training. Not much to report on this, other than that we have 3 days of it. We mainly covered combat scenarios, which was really cool. Hands-on training came in the afternoon, so we were not sitting the classroom all day. Short blog today since there is not much to report. I hope everyone is doing well. I did get some letters from my wife, Jesica, my mom and my boss, Julian. I was great getting updates from home. I feel like I am a million miles away, yet so close. So if you feel the urge to write, please do. I promise I will find time to write you back! Talk about putting things into perspective. I cannot tell you the last time I had hand written a letter before this. I am kind of getting the hang of it though.
Jesica did send me some pictures of us, Baxter (our golden retriever), and of her and Baxter. I slapped those things immediately on the inside of my locker so I could see them first and last thing everyday!
Everyone take care!
Matthew
Woke up at 0400 this AM, with PT at 0530. Chow @ 0800 and at 0900 we went into the Battalion classroom for our first day of First Aid Training. Not much to report on this, other than that we have 3 days of it. We mainly covered combat scenarios, which was really cool. Hands-on training came in the afternoon, so we were not sitting the classroom all day. Short blog today since there is not much to report. I hope everyone is doing well. I did get some letters from my wife, Jesica, my mom and my boss, Julian. I was great getting updates from home. I feel like I am a million miles away, yet so close. So if you feel the urge to write, please do. I promise I will find time to write you back! Talk about putting things into perspective. I cannot tell you the last time I had hand written a letter before this. I am kind of getting the hang of it though.
Jesica did send me some pictures of us, Baxter (our golden retriever), and of her and Baxter. I slapped those things immediately on the inside of my locker so I could see them first and last thing everyday!
Everyone take care!
Matthew
Eagle Tower and Ropes Course
06 July 2011
Today was probably one of the best days thus far here at Ft. Benning. As usual, we woke up at 0400 and were doing PT by 0545. Chow was at 0800 and we actually got to eat about 5 mins longer (roughly 10 mins overall). We then set out as a company to Eagle Tower and the Ropes Course. The march was about a mile which was not too terrible, but it was hot! The temp reached about 95 degrees today.
Eagle tower is a 40' repelling tower with three lanes. Attached to it is a series of obstacles made out of ropes. I will describe those first. The first obstacle was 2 ropes about 30' off the ground that were spaced roughly 4' apart (top to bottom). We had to cross the 2 ropes (a span of ~50') to the other side. The key was to keep balanced and try to make it across before falling 30' into a big black net. I made it fine, but it was the hardest of the three. The next one, I know everyone has seen before. It was a single rope about 2 inches in diameter stretched tight over the same 50' span. The goal here was to wrap one foot over the rope and let one leg hand off and pull yourself to the other side. This one went well, but I did get a little rope burn on my chest, which felt really nice later. The 3rd obstacle was a series of ropes that looked like a one -rope bridge with 2 ropes acting as rails. This one was pretty easy and went well.
The highlight of the day came when we got to repel down Eagle Tower. This process took a while for several reasons. We were taught a class on rope tying and we got to tie our own harnesses out of climbing rope. We used what they call a "c-swiss" knot to make our harness. I had to re-tie mine several times because I wanted to make sure that if for some reason I fell off that tower, it wasn't because of my harness. So after I got a "go" on my c-swiss, I went to the 10' practice tower. No problem there, so I was cleared to proceed to the Eagle tower. Since, Jesica and I repelled on our honeymoon, I wasn't nervous at all and was actually really excited to do it again! I climbed to the top of the tower and waited for my turn. One kid, poor guy, had every drill sergeant on the range yelling at him to go. He was so nervous, but he made it. Everything went well with my jump, so the day turned out to be really fun! It was a rather long day though, so I am really tired! Hope all is well!
Matthew
Today was probably one of the best days thus far here at Ft. Benning. As usual, we woke up at 0400 and were doing PT by 0545. Chow was at 0800 and we actually got to eat about 5 mins longer (roughly 10 mins overall). We then set out as a company to Eagle Tower and the Ropes Course. The march was about a mile which was not too terrible, but it was hot! The temp reached about 95 degrees today.
Eagle tower is a 40' repelling tower with three lanes. Attached to it is a series of obstacles made out of ropes. I will describe those first. The first obstacle was 2 ropes about 30' off the ground that were spaced roughly 4' apart (top to bottom). We had to cross the 2 ropes (a span of ~50') to the other side. The key was to keep balanced and try to make it across before falling 30' into a big black net. I made it fine, but it was the hardest of the three. The next one, I know everyone has seen before. It was a single rope about 2 inches in diameter stretched tight over the same 50' span. The goal here was to wrap one foot over the rope and let one leg hand off and pull yourself to the other side. This one went well, but I did get a little rope burn on my chest, which felt really nice later. The 3rd obstacle was a series of ropes that looked like a one -rope bridge with 2 ropes acting as rails. This one was pretty easy and went well.
The highlight of the day came when we got to repel down Eagle Tower. This process took a while for several reasons. We were taught a class on rope tying and we got to tie our own harnesses out of climbing rope. We used what they call a "c-swiss" knot to make our harness. I had to re-tie mine several times because I wanted to make sure that if for some reason I fell off that tower, it wasn't because of my harness. So after I got a "go" on my c-swiss, I went to the 10' practice tower. No problem there, so I was cleared to proceed to the Eagle tower. Since, Jesica and I repelled on our honeymoon, I wasn't nervous at all and was actually really excited to do it again! I climbed to the top of the tower and waited for my turn. One kid, poor guy, had every drill sergeant on the range yelling at him to go. He was so nervous, but he made it. Everything went well with my jump, so the day turned out to be really fun! It was a rather long day though, so I am really tired! Hope all is well!
Matthew
The Infamous Gas Chamber
05 July 2011
Today was Gas Chamber day! Wake up was at 0400 and PT around 0545. I really like doing PT that early because it gets me going for the day. Chow was @ 0800 and we were forced to drink 2 glasses of milk. I didn't mind because I like milk, but others were doing everything they could to get it down (like holding their nose). We arrived at the gas chamber "range" around 0900. We immediately had a briefing by the instructors and were lined up to enter the chamber. We had to stay in there 10 minutes and it basically went as such: 30 of us entered the room wearing our protective masks and holding our ACH (Army Combat Helmet) and our M16. We stood there for 3-5 minutes letting the CS gas circulate the room. CS gas is a gas they use in riots. The instructor then came around the room and we had to pull our masks away 3" from our face, state our name, and last 4 digits of our social security number. Then we had to put our masks back on and clear it. No problem! All went well there. The next thing we had to do was to take off our mask, hold it under our left arm, and put on/fasten our ACH, all while holding our M16. I had it all planned out: I loosened all the buckles on my ACH and put the strap on my M16 through my leg. By the way, if anything hit the floor then we had to do the whole thing again. All of my gear worked like I wanted it to, but the catch was that we couldn't leave the room until everyone had completed the instructions. So, I was standing there around 4 minutes inhaling this gas, and trying not to vomit. One guy passed out and they just drug him out by the shirt collar. We finally got out and I had never been so glad to breathe fresh air. It took me about 10 minutes to get back to normal. Overall, it will be an experience I will never forget!
The platoon had classroom time after the gas chamber. The topic covered chemical, biological, and nuclear attacks. Really interesting, but scary! There are some really bad weapons out there they contain these "killers." Very eye-opening.
We ate MREs for lunch today and were back at the barracks around 1400 for cleaning and more class. We went to chow around 1800 and boy did I eat well. I had lasagna with salad, bread, macaroni salad, and jello. For some reason, that hit the spot tonight!
I had the opportunity to witness/experience one of the most courageous events in my life tonight. This 20 yr old, we call him Private Black, has been at Basic Training for 7 months (29 weeks). He is a "hold over" in our platoon, so we see him on a daily basis. He has been through Basic Training already; his only problem was that he could not pass the running portion of the APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test). We were in the classroom doing land navigation training and the Senior Drill Sergeant walks in and says "Chancey get up here." He told me the situation and asked me to pick someone to come with me. We were going to run with Pvt. Black on his evening attempt to pass the run portion of the APFT. He needed to make it in 16 mins 30 secs. This morning his time was 18:15. The first thing I thought was there is no way in you know what this kid had a prayer. Me and this other guy, Bryson, who is a pretty strong runner, ran with Pvt. Black the entire way. Long story short, the kid ran it in 16 min 13 secs and busted out crying! I was so happy for him! He was so appreciative and humble! I hope he goes a long way! Moments like this put a lot of things into prospective for me and I hope it does for you too!
Matthew
Today was Gas Chamber day! Wake up was at 0400 and PT around 0545. I really like doing PT that early because it gets me going for the day. Chow was @ 0800 and we were forced to drink 2 glasses of milk. I didn't mind because I like milk, but others were doing everything they could to get it down (like holding their nose). We arrived at the gas chamber "range" around 0900. We immediately had a briefing by the instructors and were lined up to enter the chamber. We had to stay in there 10 minutes and it basically went as such: 30 of us entered the room wearing our protective masks and holding our ACH (Army Combat Helmet) and our M16. We stood there for 3-5 minutes letting the CS gas circulate the room. CS gas is a gas they use in riots. The instructor then came around the room and we had to pull our masks away 3" from our face, state our name, and last 4 digits of our social security number. Then we had to put our masks back on and clear it. No problem! All went well there. The next thing we had to do was to take off our mask, hold it under our left arm, and put on/fasten our ACH, all while holding our M16. I had it all planned out: I loosened all the buckles on my ACH and put the strap on my M16 through my leg. By the way, if anything hit the floor then we had to do the whole thing again. All of my gear worked like I wanted it to, but the catch was that we couldn't leave the room until everyone had completed the instructions. So, I was standing there around 4 minutes inhaling this gas, and trying not to vomit. One guy passed out and they just drug him out by the shirt collar. We finally got out and I had never been so glad to breathe fresh air. It took me about 10 minutes to get back to normal. Overall, it will be an experience I will never forget!
The platoon had classroom time after the gas chamber. The topic covered chemical, biological, and nuclear attacks. Really interesting, but scary! There are some really bad weapons out there they contain these "killers." Very eye-opening.
We ate MREs for lunch today and were back at the barracks around 1400 for cleaning and more class. We went to chow around 1800 and boy did I eat well. I had lasagna with salad, bread, macaroni salad, and jello. For some reason, that hit the spot tonight!
I had the opportunity to witness/experience one of the most courageous events in my life tonight. This 20 yr old, we call him Private Black, has been at Basic Training for 7 months (29 weeks). He is a "hold over" in our platoon, so we see him on a daily basis. He has been through Basic Training already; his only problem was that he could not pass the running portion of the APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test). We were in the classroom doing land navigation training and the Senior Drill Sergeant walks in and says "Chancey get up here." He told me the situation and asked me to pick someone to come with me. We were going to run with Pvt. Black on his evening attempt to pass the run portion of the APFT. He needed to make it in 16 mins 30 secs. This morning his time was 18:15. The first thing I thought was there is no way in you know what this kid had a prayer. Me and this other guy, Bryson, who is a pretty strong runner, ran with Pvt. Black the entire way. Long story short, the kid ran it in 16 min 13 secs and busted out crying! I was so happy for him! He was so appreciative and humble! I hope he goes a long way! Moments like this put a lot of things into prospective for me and I hope it does for you too!
Matthew
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Happy 4th from Ft. Benning
04 July 2011
No rest for the weary! Up @ 0400, 2 mile run after PT @ 0515. Chow at the barracks @ 0700. We performed our first "movement" today as a company. It was a 2 mile march with about 80% of our gear including our weapon. Guys were dropping like flies. It was about 89 degrees when we started and reached 95 degrees throughout the day. We marched to the Team Building Course which consists of 6 different mind boggling obstacle courses. You know, the ones where you have to get your group across the river with no bridge. Very entertaining actually. We completed that around 1500 hours and came back to the barracks. At 1800, we had chow then a class on how to use gas masks. That is tomorrow and should be really interesting. Our platoon, 1st Platoon, is coming along! We are still missing the small things but we seem to have one of the best, if not the best platoon. I kept a running total today of how many push-ups we did and by 21:00, lights out, our platoon had knocked out about 480. If we mess up, the drill sergeants make us drop down and knock out 20 push ups. Only making us better though! I hope everyone had a great 4th!
Matthew
No rest for the weary! Up @ 0400, 2 mile run after PT @ 0515. Chow at the barracks @ 0700. We performed our first "movement" today as a company. It was a 2 mile march with about 80% of our gear including our weapon. Guys were dropping like flies. It was about 89 degrees when we started and reached 95 degrees throughout the day. We marched to the Team Building Course which consists of 6 different mind boggling obstacle courses. You know, the ones where you have to get your group across the river with no bridge. Very entertaining actually. We completed that around 1500 hours and came back to the barracks. At 1800, we had chow then a class on how to use gas masks. That is tomorrow and should be really interesting. Our platoon, 1st Platoon, is coming along! We are still missing the small things but we seem to have one of the best, if not the best platoon. I kept a running total today of how many push-ups we did and by 21:00, lights out, our platoon had knocked out about 480. If we mess up, the drill sergeants make us drop down and knock out 20 push ups. Only making us better though! I hope everyone had a great 4th!
Matthew
Sunday- A day of cleaning!
03 July 2011
Today we were scheduled to wake up at 0600, but we were not good with instructions yesterday so we had to wake up @ 0400. From wake up until 1800 hours we cleaned and re-cleaned and cleaned more. Things such as buffing the floor, washing all the tile, washing clothes, etc, etc. I decided not to attend church today for the simple fact that I had to help with all the cleaning. We were propositioned a 5-minute phone call if the whole platoon could answer a few questions on the Army Values, Solider's Creed, 3 General Orders, and some things we learned in the classroom. However, the deal was that if someone messed up then the whole platoon lost the deal. Well, we lost. I was well prepared, but a few guys just refused to study and learn these items. So, one for all and all for one, we lost out on the phone call. Later on we were issued our gas masks for the gas chamber exercise on Tuesday. Finally, starting to do fun things!
Matthew
Today we were scheduled to wake up at 0600, but we were not good with instructions yesterday so we had to wake up @ 0400. From wake up until 1800 hours we cleaned and re-cleaned and cleaned more. Things such as buffing the floor, washing all the tile, washing clothes, etc, etc. I decided not to attend church today for the simple fact that I had to help with all the cleaning. We were propositioned a 5-minute phone call if the whole platoon could answer a few questions on the Army Values, Solider's Creed, 3 General Orders, and some things we learned in the classroom. However, the deal was that if someone messed up then the whole platoon lost the deal. Well, we lost. I was well prepared, but a few guys just refused to study and learn these items. So, one for all and all for one, we lost out on the phone call. Later on we were issued our gas masks for the gas chamber exercise on Tuesday. Finally, starting to do fun things!
Matthew
02 July 2011
Today we woke up around 03:45. To our surprise we did not have to fall into formation until 06:15. I used this time to organize my locker to Army standard. I am going to try to take a pic before I leave to post here. The locker set-up is actually really efficient.
PT was at 06:30 to 08:00. I am glad we got to eat in the DFAC (Dining Facility) for chow this morning. Yesterday I had a MRE (Meal Ready to Eat) full of beef brisket, mashed potatoes, and several other items.
After chow, the whole company (Bravo Company) went to the big classroom and had a briefing on how to disassemble, assemble, and take care of our M16 rifles. Very interesting class. There are so many parts to a M16 that I never knew about.
Unfortunately, we had an MRE for chow @ 12:30. I lucked up and got tuna so I was happy for the most part. We had another class after chow on the new "Don't ask don't tell" policy. Two hours worth of that will put you to sleep. For some people it did and that was not good considering the company 1st Sergeant was giving the class.
Last chow was @ 17:45 and then we were allowed to come back to the barracks and clean and straighten up everything.
We have been told to keep our wall lockers locked at all times. During inspection tonight the drill sergeants came in and destroyed our barracks because 3 people had their lockers unlocked. Picture a room 40'x80' with 30 bunk beds and 60 wall lockers. They turned over every bunk bed, threw sheets, blankets and pillow all over the room, sprayed the whole bay down with shaving cream. I can't even hardly describe it. I hope to get some pics of that too.
Lights out tonight @ 21:30. I think I may go to church again. Nice break from the chaos.
PT was at 06:30 to 08:00. I am glad we got to eat in the DFAC (Dining Facility) for chow this morning. Yesterday I had a MRE (Meal Ready to Eat) full of beef brisket, mashed potatoes, and several other items.
After chow, the whole company (Bravo Company) went to the big classroom and had a briefing on how to disassemble, assemble, and take care of our M16 rifles. Very interesting class. There are so many parts to a M16 that I never knew about.
Unfortunately, we had an MRE for chow @ 12:30. I lucked up and got tuna so I was happy for the most part. We had another class after chow on the new "Don't ask don't tell" policy. Two hours worth of that will put you to sleep. For some people it did and that was not good considering the company 1st Sergeant was giving the class.
Last chow was @ 17:45 and then we were allowed to come back to the barracks and clean and straighten up everything.
We have been told to keep our wall lockers locked at all times. During inspection tonight the drill sergeants came in and destroyed our barracks because 3 people had their lockers unlocked. Picture a room 40'x80' with 30 bunk beds and 60 wall lockers. They turned over every bunk bed, threw sheets, blankets and pillow all over the room, sprayed the whole bay down with shaving cream. I can't even hardly describe it. I hope to get some pics of that too.
Lights out tonight @ 21:30. I think I may go to church again. Nice break from the chaos.
Equipment Issue Day
01 July 2011
Today was a pretty slack day at BCT. Wake up was a 0400 and we went straight to PT. PT was over around 0600 and the whole company loaded buses and was taken a few blocks to get our gear. The gear is called the TA-50 and it consists of bullet proof vests, rain gear, elbow & knee pads, ruck sack (backpack), assault pack, two sleeping bags, Gortex jacket, and many other items. All of the gear weights around 75-80 lbs and we had to carry all of it .75 miles. I thought that was hard until I found out that in week 9 we have a 9 mile march in all of our gear. Should be fun in August! Our platoon is getting "smoked" by the drill sergeants constantly. Mainly for things like not paying attention or not saying drill sergeant by saying "sir". Overall, our drill sergeants are really fair and I like all of them. Also, today, we were issued our M16A4. We will be carrying this everywhere we go (chow, latrine, anytime were are no in the barracks). I have never been too big on guns (knowledge that is), so this should be interesting. I feel like I am getting into shape. I think I lost around 5 lbs today because it was so hot and we were outside pretty much all day. 2100 was lights out. We were told to drink a canteen of water because tomorrow we will need it! Hopefully we will be doing something fun! Good night from Ft. Benning, GA.
Today was a pretty slack day at BCT. Wake up was a 0400 and we went straight to PT. PT was over around 0600 and the whole company loaded buses and was taken a few blocks to get our gear. The gear is called the TA-50 and it consists of bullet proof vests, rain gear, elbow & knee pads, ruck sack (backpack), assault pack, two sleeping bags, Gortex jacket, and many other items. All of the gear weights around 75-80 lbs and we had to carry all of it .75 miles. I thought that was hard until I found out that in week 9 we have a 9 mile march in all of our gear. Should be fun in August! Our platoon is getting "smoked" by the drill sergeants constantly. Mainly for things like not paying attention or not saying drill sergeant by saying "sir". Overall, our drill sergeants are really fair and I like all of them. Also, today, we were issued our M16A4. We will be carrying this everywhere we go (chow, latrine, anytime were are no in the barracks). I have never been too big on guns (knowledge that is), so this should be interesting. I feel like I am getting into shape. I think I lost around 5 lbs today because it was so hot and we were outside pretty much all day. 2100 was lights out. We were told to drink a canteen of water because tomorrow we will need it! Hopefully we will be doing something fun! Good night from Ft. Benning, GA.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Classes and More Classes at BCT
30 June 2011
I believe today was the final day of the mandatory classes at BCT. You can really tell everyone is anxious to get down to the "real" stuff, even drill sergeants. I wised up and finally decided to delegate out my tasks amongst the Platoon. All of the guys were happy to do it. I am trying to basically get it down to where all I do is brief the platoon, answer questions and assign duties. One thing I did do was include myself in the duties because I feel like it's just the right thing to do. I can't wait to start writing about actual field training. We should begin that first of next week; after the holiday weekend. So stay tuned. It should get very interesting.
I believe today was the final day of the mandatory classes at BCT. You can really tell everyone is anxious to get down to the "real" stuff, even drill sergeants. I wised up and finally decided to delegate out my tasks amongst the Platoon. All of the guys were happy to do it. I am trying to basically get it down to where all I do is brief the platoon, answer questions and assign duties. One thing I did do was include myself in the duties because I feel like it's just the right thing to do. I can't wait to start writing about actual field training. We should begin that first of next week; after the holiday weekend. So stay tuned. It should get very interesting.
First Full Day of BCT
29 June 2011
04:00 was wake-up. I only got about 3 hours of sleep, I guess from being in a new place along with lots of anticipation. We dressed in our PT gear and did what the Army calls a 1-1-1 test or the PT assessment. Push-ups for 1 minute, sit-ups for 1 minute and the 1 mile run. I did 38 push ups, 35 sit ups, and ran a 6:13 mile. We were then led in a series of exercises to Army standard. Chow came @ 08:00. The day was a full of mandatory classes; basically Army 101 with the obvious Equal Opportunity and sexual harassment class. Dinner chow came at 1800 hours. We went back out to the PT field and were taught more PT exercises/stretches. Again we did the moving shower line and were bunked @ 2100 hours.
I got appointed Platoon leader because of my OCS status, not my age (lol). Actually, there is a 42 year old guy in my platoon who is in much better shape than most of the 18-19 year olds. My job as Platoon leader is simple (well not really). I have to assign duties and brief the drill sergeants on counts, sick calls, supplies. etc. I am sure more duties will be assigned as time progresses.
04:00 was wake-up. I only got about 3 hours of sleep, I guess from being in a new place along with lots of anticipation. We dressed in our PT gear and did what the Army calls a 1-1-1 test or the PT assessment. Push-ups for 1 minute, sit-ups for 1 minute and the 1 mile run. I did 38 push ups, 35 sit ups, and ran a 6:13 mile. We were then led in a series of exercises to Army standard. Chow came @ 08:00. The day was a full of mandatory classes; basically Army 101 with the obvious Equal Opportunity and sexual harassment class. Dinner chow came at 1800 hours. We went back out to the PT field and were taught more PT exercises/stretches. Again we did the moving shower line and were bunked @ 2100 hours.
I got appointed Platoon leader because of my OCS status, not my age (lol). Actually, there is a 42 year old guy in my platoon who is in much better shape than most of the 18-19 year olds. My job as Platoon leader is simple (well not really). I have to assign duties and brief the drill sergeants on counts, sick calls, supplies. etc. I am sure more duties will be assigned as time progresses.
I have arrived at Basic Combat Traing (Dum Dum Dum Dum Dummmmm)
Matthew's address:
Specialist W. Matthew Chancey
B Co 2-46 INF (Bldg 3520)
1st Platoon, RN #141
9697 2nd Armored Div. Road
Ft. Benning, GA 31905-4769
28 June 2011
We left the 30th AG Battalion (Reception) at 14:00 today after a morning briefing and chow. I was assigned to the 1st Platoon of B CO 2-46th INF. There are 60 guys in my platoon and we have been assigned 3 drill sergeants (Drill Sergeants Gonzalez, Stockton and Sutherland).
We loaded the bus @ 14:00 and made the 2-mile drive to "Sand Hill"; the infamous BCT side for the Infantry. When we stopped, the drill sergeant said "Men, welcome to Basic Combat Training, now get the **** off my bus". We had to carry all of our stuff (about 75 lbs worth) up "Sand hill" to our new barracks (which look like college dorms by the way). Then the push ups began because we never did anything right. We were in our full ACUs (Army Combat Uniforms) and it was about 95 degrees outside. Wet from head to toe, we were taken to a classroom for a 2 hour briefing of expectations, rules, and just general housekeeping stuff. Chow was @ 18:00 and after that we came back to the barracks and emptied all of our bags on the floor. Talk about chaos! We sorted through our stuff (not fast enough), so we would stop to do push ups along the way. I think we have knocked out about 200 push ups so far. There are 16 shower heads in our barracks. We did a "moving shower line" where everyone had 3 secs at each shower head (LOL). 21:00 was lights out. Needless to say, I, along with the rest of 1st platoon was soaking wet when we crawled into bed.
Specialist W. Matthew Chancey
B Co 2-46 INF (Bldg 3520)
1st Platoon, RN #141
9697 2nd Armored Div. Road
Ft. Benning, GA 31905-4769
28 June 2011
We left the 30th AG Battalion (Reception) at 14:00 today after a morning briefing and chow. I was assigned to the 1st Platoon of B CO 2-46th INF. There are 60 guys in my platoon and we have been assigned 3 drill sergeants (Drill Sergeants Gonzalez, Stockton and Sutherland).
We loaded the bus @ 14:00 and made the 2-mile drive to "Sand Hill"; the infamous BCT side for the Infantry. When we stopped, the drill sergeant said "Men, welcome to Basic Combat Training, now get the **** off my bus". We had to carry all of our stuff (about 75 lbs worth) up "Sand hill" to our new barracks (which look like college dorms by the way). Then the push ups began because we never did anything right. We were in our full ACUs (Army Combat Uniforms) and it was about 95 degrees outside. Wet from head to toe, we were taken to a classroom for a 2 hour briefing of expectations, rules, and just general housekeeping stuff. Chow was @ 18:00 and after that we came back to the barracks and emptied all of our bags on the floor. Talk about chaos! We sorted through our stuff (not fast enough), so we would stop to do push ups along the way. I think we have knocked out about 200 push ups so far. There are 16 shower heads in our barracks. We did a "moving shower line" where everyone had 3 secs at each shower head (LOL). 21:00 was lights out. Needless to say, I, along with the rest of 1st platoon was soaking wet when we crawled into bed.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Final Full Day of Reception
27 June 2011
Today was no surprise. Wake-up at 0400 and chow at 0640. We went back to the Reception building to receive another haircut. I could not believe how much my hair had actually grown over the past 6 days. That took forever because two companies (550+ soldiers) had to get this done. Chow was at 1200 and we also got to visit the PX. We were briefed by a U.S. Army Ranger from the 75th Ranger Regiment. He basically was promoting the program and outlined the requirements. I don't think this is for me. National Guard is not eligible anyway because it is for active soldiers only.
Right before chow, me and three other Officer Candidate School Candidates got to sit and talk with the Alpha Company commander, Captain Stephens. He had all sorts of good info for us and was really encouraging about not only the Army but how to balance military and civilian life in general.
Our company ships at 14:00 tomorrow to Basic Combat Training. I hope to get to talk to Jesica tomorrow before my phone is gone for several weeks. I can't wait to share my experiences as I start BCT.
Matthew
Today was no surprise. Wake-up at 0400 and chow at 0640. We went back to the Reception building to receive another haircut. I could not believe how much my hair had actually grown over the past 6 days. That took forever because two companies (550+ soldiers) had to get this done. Chow was at 1200 and we also got to visit the PX. We were briefed by a U.S. Army Ranger from the 75th Ranger Regiment. He basically was promoting the program and outlined the requirements. I don't think this is for me. National Guard is not eligible anyway because it is for active soldiers only.
Right before chow, me and three other Officer Candidate School Candidates got to sit and talk with the Alpha Company commander, Captain Stephens. He had all sorts of good info for us and was really encouraging about not only the Army but how to balance military and civilian life in general.
Our company ships at 14:00 tomorrow to Basic Combat Training. I hope to get to talk to Jesica tomorrow before my phone is gone for several weeks. I can't wait to share my experiences as I start BCT.
Matthew
Rest, Worship and Food
Alpha Company got to sleep in til 0530 this morning. Chow was at 0700. We were given the option of signing up for a religious service today. I decided to sign up for the Protestant Bible Study for 0915 to 1015. A couple of guys went with me. The service was located in the Regimental Chapel and was conducted by an Army 2nd LT. It was a traditional service: Call to Worship, sang a few songs, offering, and message. The chaplin preached out of Philippians Chapter 2. The title of the message was about having the attitude of Christ and the challenge was "Are you full of yourself? or like Christ, do you empty yourself?"
After services we had chow and watched a couple of movies: The New Rambo movie and a documentary called "Restrepo". The afternoon was pretty nice. We had about 3 hours of free time so I decided to do laundry. We went to chow around 1800 and came back and had a class about hygiene.
Only one more day of reception and I cannot wait to begin BCT. The barracks are getting restless and so am I. Also, for the reader's sake, I will be able to write about more interesting events.
Matthew
Day 7
I was able to catch an extra hour of sleep this AM since wake-up was at 0530. Since I had "fire guard" last night I really netted no extra hours. Oh well, it made me feel a little better about laying in my bunk until 0530. Formation was at 0600. Chow was delicious as I had the biscuits and gravy! I am planning on writing a separate blog about chow and other things I may have missed this week.
Today was the same as yesterday. We had classes on Customs and Courtesies of the Military, a Drill and Ceremony class, as well as reviewing the Soldiers Creed, the Army Values, and the Army Song. We then went outside to practice some of the Drill and Ceremony (DNC).
The heat of Ft. Benning, GA showed up today. After several days of overcast weather, it finally made it to 95 degrees. A guy passed out in our company from the heat, or so we thought. Come to find out, he had a really high temperature from being sick.
We made it to the barracks around 0800 tonight ater several briefings. No fire guard for me tonight so I am planning on getting a good nights sleep.
Matthew
Today was the same as yesterday. We had classes on Customs and Courtesies of the Military, a Drill and Ceremony class, as well as reviewing the Soldiers Creed, the Army Values, and the Army Song. We then went outside to practice some of the Drill and Ceremony (DNC).
The heat of Ft. Benning, GA showed up today. After several days of overcast weather, it finally made it to 95 degrees. A guy passed out in our company from the heat, or so we thought. Come to find out, he had a really high temperature from being sick.
We made it to the barracks around 0800 tonight ater several briefings. No fire guard for me tonight so I am planning on getting a good nights sleep.
Matthew
24 June 2011
Wake-up this AM was at 0400. We were told to clean until 0530 and to be in formation by 0545. I kind of knew this day was going to be an uneventful day because all of the "in-processing" was complete. We went to chow at 0600 and returned around 0630. What do you know, we were told to return to our barracks and clean some more. At 0800 we had a class on several things including: proper bunk making, the Soldiers Creed, The Army Values, and "The Army Song". This lasted until 1200 hours. Chow came after that and it was back to the bunk for more cleaning. The drill sergeant made a really good point about why we clean so much. It is basically to keep everyone from getting sick because if one soldier gets sick you have 300 sick soldiers. Ft. Benning has done a good job installing hand sanitizer dispensers all over the place and we are encouraged to use them often.
At 0400 we were called back to the classroom for what is called a "shake down." This is where we take everything that belongs to us and dump it in a pile in the middle of the floor. We then packed what we would not need for the next couple of days in our duffel bag and placed it in a holding area. The rest of our stuff we placed in our laundry bag and brought it back to the bay. This took until 1700 and then over to dinner we went.
"Lights out" was again at 2100. I volunteered for a "fire-guard" shift from 0200-0300. This is basically where you take a head count in the barracks and check on a list of things such as latrines, showers, etc.
The new few days are going to be similar to today. Our whole company is ready to ship. Everyone is getting restless and sort of "on edge" because the drill sergeants are trying to put the "fear of God" in us about arriving at our Basic Training Company. I personally cannot wait to get this show on the road.
Matthew
At 0400 we were called back to the classroom for what is called a "shake down." This is where we take everything that belongs to us and dump it in a pile in the middle of the floor. We then packed what we would not need for the next couple of days in our duffel bag and placed it in a holding area. The rest of our stuff we placed in our laundry bag and brought it back to the bay. This took until 1700 and then over to dinner we went.
"Lights out" was again at 2100. I volunteered for a "fire-guard" shift from 0200-0300. This is basically where you take a head count in the barracks and check on a list of things such as latrines, showers, etc.
The new few days are going to be similar to today. Our whole company is ready to ship. Everyone is getting restless and sort of "on edge" because the drill sergeants are trying to put the "fear of God" in us about arriving at our Basic Training Company. I personally cannot wait to get this show on the road.
Matthew
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Final Day of In-Processing at Reception
23 June 2011
Wake up call was at 03:30 this morning. Our orders were to be in formation by 04:30 so we could be to chow by 04:45. We had a busy day planned for us.
At 06:30 we arrived at the Reception building for two more shots and to receive the results of our TB tests. Mine was negative, but unfortunately 2 of the guys had positive tests and have to undergo further testing (one was from Vietnam and the other from Camaroon).
We found out that we would ship next Tuesday, 28 June 2011. I believe our expected graduation date is 01 Sept 2011, but not 100% sure yet. Should know for sure next week.
We spent the majority of the day fixing any problems anyone had during in-processing. Made for a long day because all we did was sit and wait. About 90% of us have been cleared to ship to Basic Training with at least another 8% expected to be cleared tomorrow.
I was appointed Bay leader of the 68 guys in our Bay. All the job entails is coordinating "Fire Guard" duties as well as CQ duties. Fairly easy except dealing with a few morons. It's kind of funny because all of a sudden everyone in the bay thinks that I have all the answers. So I fixed that problem and appointed an assistant bay leader, Jordan, to answer any questions. Jordan is a sophomore at VMI (Virginia Military Institute) and is in their ROTC program. He has been a great help, which has allowed me to concentrate on other duties.
It has been a long week, but at least we have a tentative time table.
Matthew
Wake up call was at 03:30 this morning. Our orders were to be in formation by 04:30 so we could be to chow by 04:45. We had a busy day planned for us.
At 06:30 we arrived at the Reception building for two more shots and to receive the results of our TB tests. Mine was negative, but unfortunately 2 of the guys had positive tests and have to undergo further testing (one was from Vietnam and the other from Camaroon).
We found out that we would ship next Tuesday, 28 June 2011. I believe our expected graduation date is 01 Sept 2011, but not 100% sure yet. Should know for sure next week.
We spent the majority of the day fixing any problems anyone had during in-processing. Made for a long day because all we did was sit and wait. About 90% of us have been cleared to ship to Basic Training with at least another 8% expected to be cleared tomorrow.
I was appointed Bay leader of the 68 guys in our Bay. All the job entails is coordinating "Fire Guard" duties as well as CQ duties. Fairly easy except dealing with a few morons. It's kind of funny because all of a sudden everyone in the bay thinks that I have all the answers. So I fixed that problem and appointed an assistant bay leader, Jordan, to answer any questions. Jordan is a sophomore at VMI (Virginia Military Institute) and is in their ROTC program. He has been a great help, which has allowed me to concentrate on other duties.
It has been a long week, but at least we have a tentative time table.
Matthew
Day 2-Reception In-Processing
22 June 2011
I woke up at 0400 this AM and was wondering why my body was sore. Then I realized the pain was confined to by left butt cheek! The penicillin shot had definitely left its mark! Formation was a 0430 and as soon as we got lined up we were told to go clean the barracks til 0530. The company was taken to chow at 0530 and again was in and out in 30 minutes (all 300 marched, fed, and marched out in 30 minutes...unheard of).
Alpha company was then taken to Reception to continue our in-processing. This included dental exams, hearing tests, and financial briefings. Chow was at 12:30 and again we efficiently ate and left. The company marched back to the reception building and took our individual pictures for our military ID as well as pictures for us to order. After that, the company went to a holding room in order for soldiers who had problems during in-processing to get things sorted out.
Chow was at 18:00 this evening. After chow we were taken back to the barracks and were told to clean till 20:00 hours. I was ready to hit the bed tonight after a long day. Luckily I have my flash light that will clip to my bunk to write these blogs for Jesica to post. When the drill sergeants say lights out they mean it!
I am starting to get to know some of my fellow Alpha Company members. A lot of them are questioning me about joining at 29 years old. I love hearing their background and their stories from some of their own personal experiences. Many of them seem to know a lot about the Army. So far so good!
One thing I did forget to mention about yesterday was that I received that military haircut! Shaved with no guard on the clippers! It has been a while since my hair has been like this, but at least it's maintenance free!
Matthew
I woke up at 0400 this AM and was wondering why my body was sore. Then I realized the pain was confined to by left butt cheek! The penicillin shot had definitely left its mark! Formation was a 0430 and as soon as we got lined up we were told to go clean the barracks til 0530. The company was taken to chow at 0530 and again was in and out in 30 minutes (all 300 marched, fed, and marched out in 30 minutes...unheard of).
Alpha company was then taken to Reception to continue our in-processing. This included dental exams, hearing tests, and financial briefings. Chow was at 12:30 and again we efficiently ate and left. The company marched back to the reception building and took our individual pictures for our military ID as well as pictures for us to order. After that, the company went to a holding room in order for soldiers who had problems during in-processing to get things sorted out.
Chow was at 18:00 this evening. After chow we were taken back to the barracks and were told to clean till 20:00 hours. I was ready to hit the bed tonight after a long day. Luckily I have my flash light that will clip to my bunk to write these blogs for Jesica to post. When the drill sergeants say lights out they mean it!
I am starting to get to know some of my fellow Alpha Company members. A lot of them are questioning me about joining at 29 years old. I love hearing their background and their stories from some of their own personal experiences. Many of them seem to know a lot about the Army. So far so good!
One thing I did forget to mention about yesterday was that I received that military haircut! Shaved with no guard on the clippers! It has been a while since my hair has been like this, but at least it's maintenance free!
Matthew
The Beginning of In-Processing at the 30th Adjutant General Battalion (Reception)
21 June 2011
Wake up call came at 4:00am so that 1 hour of sleep was just a tease. "Welcome to the Army" the Drill Sergeant said, "Where sleep is not on our priority list." Oh Boy! Jesica and I are use to getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Can you say "culture shock"?
The day began at the barracks building as we were put into formation by our roster number. My roster number is 11711 AT 006. This basically means that I am guy #6 in the Alpha Tango Company. There are around 62 guys in Alpha Tango. What is very surprising is that I am not the oldest in the company. The range is 17 to 30. The majority of these guys are either high school juniors or seniors. Several are college students and some are just guys in their mid-20s trying to figure out what they want to do.
Breakfast was at 5:30am and what a working machine this process is. First of all, the whole alpha company (around 350 soldiers) marched to the DFAC (dining facility) and we were all in and out by 6:00am. THE WHOLE COMPANY! Kudos to the DFAC staff!
After chow, we were then marched to the reception building and basically did the following: shots (5 to be exact and one in the butt), gave blood, were issued all of our uniforms/gear, listened to more briefings, and just sat and waited. We went to chow around 12:30pm and went back to reception to finish day 1 of in processing which included vision testing and more briefings. At 5:45pm we went back to chow and marched back to the barracks. After that we were told to start cleaning the barracks from one end to the other. By this time it was 8:00pm, which is our personal time until 9:00pm. I was so busy during my personal time I forgot to take a shower. And there is no showering or being out of the bunk after 9:00pm unless you need to do one of these things: take a leak, take a crap, or drink some water. Day 1 of in-processing down. Not too much action (fun action that is) but a good day overall.
Matthew
Wake up call came at 4:00am so that 1 hour of sleep was just a tease. "Welcome to the Army" the Drill Sergeant said, "Where sleep is not on our priority list." Oh Boy! Jesica and I are use to getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Can you say "culture shock"?
The day began at the barracks building as we were put into formation by our roster number. My roster number is 11711 AT 006. This basically means that I am guy #6 in the Alpha Tango Company. There are around 62 guys in Alpha Tango. What is very surprising is that I am not the oldest in the company. The range is 17 to 30. The majority of these guys are either high school juniors or seniors. Several are college students and some are just guys in their mid-20s trying to figure out what they want to do.
Breakfast was at 5:30am and what a working machine this process is. First of all, the whole alpha company (around 350 soldiers) marched to the DFAC (dining facility) and we were all in and out by 6:00am. THE WHOLE COMPANY! Kudos to the DFAC staff!
After chow, we were then marched to the reception building and basically did the following: shots (5 to be exact and one in the butt), gave blood, were issued all of our uniforms/gear, listened to more briefings, and just sat and waited. We went to chow around 12:30pm and went back to reception to finish day 1 of in processing which included vision testing and more briefings. At 5:45pm we went back to chow and marched back to the barracks. After that we were told to start cleaning the barracks from one end to the other. By this time it was 8:00pm, which is our personal time until 9:00pm. I was so busy during my personal time I forgot to take a shower. And there is no showering or being out of the bunk after 9:00pm unless you need to do one of these things: take a leak, take a crap, or drink some water. Day 1 of in-processing down. Not too much action (fun action that is) but a good day overall.
Matthew
MEPS, the Airport & Arriving at Ft. Benning
20 June 2011
Today started with a 4 am wake up call by the front desk. Man did it seems like I just closed my eyes. Breakfast was served in the hotel lobby at 4:30am and was actually really good. My roommate, Ethan, and I finished breakfast and got in line for the bus ride to Fort Gillem and MEPS.
We arrived at MEPS around 5:45am and started our "shippers processing." Basically, I had to stand in a room with about 50 guys in nothing but my underwear while we did a quick physical and height/weight check. I was 74" tall and weighed 188 pounds. I wanted to get down to 185, but with all of the great meals cooked for Jesica and I over the past week, I knew that would be nearly impossible.
I finished the physical around 7:30am and from that point on it was "hurry up and wait" until noon. At noon we got to each a sandwich and chips and probably had my last soft drink for a while. We were then called into one last shippers briefing where final orders were distributed.
Of the 65 shippers from the Atlanta MEPS, only four of us were going to Ft. Benning. Because of my rank (specialist), I was put in charge of our group. That task consisted of carrying the packets/orders and getting us checked into the United Service Organization (USO) at the airport. We arrived at the airport around 1:30pm and I got our group checked in with USO. I got to see about 200 soldiers waiting to deploy to Iraq/Afganistan on the USO floor. Many were either on their phones, laptops or just listening to their ipods. Some were fortunate enough to have their family with them while they waited. It seemed to be a bittersweet moment for many of them.
One of the guys in my shipping group, Brian Kim, knew some of the same people I knew. He use to work for the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and Sandy Springs PD. Brian is 31 and his military occupation specialty (MOS) is 18X or special forces. His basic training is 17 weeks which includes Basic Training, Infantry Training, and Airborne School. Really nice guy. He speaks Korean and is learning and third language as we speak.
The plan was to be on the bus by 5:30pm heading to Ft. Benning. The charter bus arrived at 7:00pm and we loaded up and pulled out heading to Benning around 7:30pm (approx 2 hrs late). The ride was about 1 hr 45 min, putting us at the front door of the Reception Battalion around 9:15pm. Little did I know our night was just beginnning. Time does not permit me to describe every detail of the evening, but basically we were fed, briefed, issued physical training clothes, briefed some more and finally had lights out around 3:00am for a 4:00am wake up call. Hell of a first day!
Matthew
Today started with a 4 am wake up call by the front desk. Man did it seems like I just closed my eyes. Breakfast was served in the hotel lobby at 4:30am and was actually really good. My roommate, Ethan, and I finished breakfast and got in line for the bus ride to Fort Gillem and MEPS.
We arrived at MEPS around 5:45am and started our "shippers processing." Basically, I had to stand in a room with about 50 guys in nothing but my underwear while we did a quick physical and height/weight check. I was 74" tall and weighed 188 pounds. I wanted to get down to 185, but with all of the great meals cooked for Jesica and I over the past week, I knew that would be nearly impossible.
I finished the physical around 7:30am and from that point on it was "hurry up and wait" until noon. At noon we got to each a sandwich and chips and probably had my last soft drink for a while. We were then called into one last shippers briefing where final orders were distributed.
Of the 65 shippers from the Atlanta MEPS, only four of us were going to Ft. Benning. Because of my rank (specialist), I was put in charge of our group. That task consisted of carrying the packets/orders and getting us checked into the United Service Organization (USO) at the airport. We arrived at the airport around 1:30pm and I got our group checked in with USO. I got to see about 200 soldiers waiting to deploy to Iraq/Afganistan on the USO floor. Many were either on their phones, laptops or just listening to their ipods. Some were fortunate enough to have their family with them while they waited. It seemed to be a bittersweet moment for many of them.
One of the guys in my shipping group, Brian Kim, knew some of the same people I knew. He use to work for the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and Sandy Springs PD. Brian is 31 and his military occupation specialty (MOS) is 18X or special forces. His basic training is 17 weeks which includes Basic Training, Infantry Training, and Airborne School. Really nice guy. He speaks Korean and is learning and third language as we speak.
The plan was to be on the bus by 5:30pm heading to Ft. Benning. The charter bus arrived at 7:00pm and we loaded up and pulled out heading to Benning around 7:30pm (approx 2 hrs late). The ride was about 1 hr 45 min, putting us at the front door of the Reception Battalion around 9:15pm. Little did I know our night was just beginnning. Time does not permit me to describe every detail of the evening, but basically we were fed, briefed, issued physical training clothes, briefed some more and finally had lights out around 3:00am for a 4:00am wake up call. Hell of a first day!
Matthew
Leaving for the Hotel and Shippers Briefing
19 June 2011
I left Athens, GA today around 5:30 PM for the DoubleTree Hotel at the Atlanta Airport. A very close friend of mine, Ben Nyquist was kind enough to bring me and drop me off. It was very hard leaving Jesica, as the past few days have been emotional roller coasters. We both agreed to be strong and that even though 10 weeks is a long time, we could endure just about anything and make the best of it.
After a few necessary stops, Ben and I arrived at the hotel around 7:45pm. A good handshake and a "see you in 10" was exchanged. I reported to the basement floor at the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) office. The Department of Defense contracts with hotels across the country to host these offices while soldiers are either waiting to take physicals or ship to Basic Training. I checked in and was told to report back at 10:00pm for a "shippers" brief. The brief lasted about 20 minutes and we were basically told to not screw up tonight and ruin our chances of shipping tomorrow! When the briefing was over, all 65 of us migrated to our rooms. I am rooming tonight with a guy named, Ethan. He is 19 years old and a student at North Georgia College. He is also going into the National Guard as an infantry soldier. Very nice guy. We talked for almost 2 hours about things we each had heard about Basic Training and what we thought were myths or not.
It's about midnight now and I have to be up around 4:00am. Long day tomorrow at MEPS and the word is we will arrive at Fort Benning around 5:00pm. Should be interesting!
I hope everyone is doing well and I hope you will enjoy reading these posts.
Matthew
I left Athens, GA today around 5:30 PM for the DoubleTree Hotel at the Atlanta Airport. A very close friend of mine, Ben Nyquist was kind enough to bring me and drop me off. It was very hard leaving Jesica, as the past few days have been emotional roller coasters. We both agreed to be strong and that even though 10 weeks is a long time, we could endure just about anything and make the best of it.
After a few necessary stops, Ben and I arrived at the hotel around 7:45pm. A good handshake and a "see you in 10" was exchanged. I reported to the basement floor at the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) office. The Department of Defense contracts with hotels across the country to host these offices while soldiers are either waiting to take physicals or ship to Basic Training. I checked in and was told to report back at 10:00pm for a "shippers" brief. The brief lasted about 20 minutes and we were basically told to not screw up tonight and ruin our chances of shipping tomorrow! When the briefing was over, all 65 of us migrated to our rooms. I am rooming tonight with a guy named, Ethan. He is 19 years old and a student at North Georgia College. He is also going into the National Guard as an infantry soldier. Very nice guy. We talked for almost 2 hours about things we each had heard about Basic Training and what we thought were myths or not.
It's about midnight now and I have to be up around 4:00am. Long day tomorrow at MEPS and the word is we will arrive at Fort Benning around 5:00pm. Should be interesting!
I hope everyone is doing well and I hope you will enjoy reading these posts.
Matthew
Sunday, June 19, 2011
The Beginnings: Bringing Everyone Up to Speed
Thursday, 17 March 2011, I officially became a member of the Army National Guard. After many months of researching, discussing, praying, and analyzing the pros and cons of joining the military, my wife and I decided that this decision would put us in a position to help meet our short-term and long-term goals (personally and professionally).
I have always had what I like to call that "military itch" but never really took that itch seriously. Therefore, I trekked on the past eleven years completing my bachelor's and master's degree while working in local government; currently as the City Planner for the City of Monroe. Something was still missing. November 20, 2010, I married my best friend, Jesica, bought a house in Athens, GA 2 miles from our Best Friends and started living the "Athens Dream": Football, Restaurants and Extracurricular Activities! Something was still missing. With my personal life fulfilled without any void, I began to think seriously about my professional career and how I saw myself developing and making that "paradigm shift" everyone talks about. I looked at my career at the City of Monroe and the future path that has a lot of potential and professional fulfillment. I also looked at possible career changes two to five years down the road. Then economics came into play. With the state of the economy and unemployment soaring to all time highs the latter of the two did not look so hot in the immediate future. At this point the military really started to make sense. My synopsis of the military changed in and of itself. I started looking beyond the thought of being at war and the possibility of deploying and temporarily leaving my wife, family and friends. I discovered the many opportunities the military offers and many areas appealed to me during my research. I started reading blogs and talking to current and former enlisted and officer personnel. Their insight and experiences have allowed me to come to this decision that I believe will afford me the opportunity to grow as a person and lead to many adventures in the future.
I hope this blog will allow you to share this experience with me. Jesica will be posting as she receives my letters. Take care.
Matthew
I hope this blog will allow you to share this experience with me. Jesica will be posting as she receives my letters. Take care.
Matthew
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