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
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