The U.S. Army Basic Combat Training (BCT) is the enlisted training program of the U.S. Army. These challenges not only test the physical fitness of recruits, but also a great test of psychological quality. The primary purpose of BCT is to prepare recruits to adapt to a new way of life, not only to face a rigorous daily training schedule, but also to learn the importance of following orders and working as a team.
In their daily schedule, recruits will learn basic combat skills, including how to use various weapons, first aid techniques and survival skills.
The training structure of BCT usually consists of two main parts: Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT). The length of BCT is approximately 10 weeks, including one week of reception training, during which physical examinations, vaccinations, and basic marching movements are taught.
The daily training schedule sometimes changes depending on the location and the commander's needs. The day usually starts with a morning run and physical training. There are hours of weapons training, military tactics drills and teamwork training every day. These activities are designed to develop the recruits' reaction speed, adaptability and endurance.
All recruits must pass a series of physical fitness and weapons tests at the end of the 10-week BCT before they are eligible to enter AIT.
Recruits will have a "Battle Buddy" during training. This partner is not only to support each other in challenges, but also to ensure each other's safety and discipline during operations.
Some challenges in basic training, such as the "Victory Tower" and team development courses, are specifically designed to improve recruits' mental and physical fitness. These activities require participants to demonstrate perseverance and collaboration in extremely high-stress situations.
The challenge of the Victory Tower includes climbing and crossing multiple suspended obstacles, and ultimately descending from a 50-foot-high wall. This is not only a physical challenge, but also a psychological test.
In addition, recruits will undergo a "gas chamber" test in the third week to ensure that they can properly use protective equipment on a real battlefield. This experience not only made the recruits feel the terror of weapons attacks, but also allowed them to understand the importance of equipment.
In the following training, the actions of the recruits are almost strictly monitored. Every move they make needs to be carried out under the guidance of the commander. Mistakes will lead to punishment for the entire team, which is undoubtedly a great test. their coping skills and team spirit.
In the military, all recruits must abide by seven core military values, including loyalty, duty and personal courage, and this is what recruits need to remember from the beginning.
In addition, the initial preparation of the reception camp allows the recruits to obtain the necessary psychological preparation before actually entering basic combat training, including changes in hairstyle and the establishment of daily discipline. This period of time helps recruits adapt more quickly to upcoming challenges.
After each recruit undergoes these ten weeks of training, his personal emotions and personality will undergo great changes. From initial doubt to final confidence, the recruits not only learned how to use weapons, but also learned how to respond calmly under pressure. This transformation is a unique result of military training.
In the end, all recruits will usher in a brand new self after completing basic training. They are no longer the ordinary people they used to be, but soldiers ready to serve the country. The experience of these ten weeks will leave a profound mark on their lives and will continue to influence their every action in their future military careers.
So, do you think such rigorous training can really cultivate excellent soldiers?