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Questions on AIT & MOS
Posted by Josh on 4/10/2002, 10:25 pm
66.64.13.153
i have a couple of questions, what the hell does a cavalry scout do? ive read things on it, but it doesnt really help me. What is the training like in AIT for a scout? thanks for any answers.

Re: Questions on AIT & MOS
Posted by R on 4/13/2002, 7:18 pm , in reply to "Questions on AIT & MOS"
204.119.242.213
You can read more about being a cavalry scout below. Once you're finished, feel free to post on the Army Discussion Board at Military.com about more specific questions (see link above).
Link: http://forums.military.com/1/OpenTopic?q=Y&a=tpc&s=78919038&f=65819558&m=7661999893

Rangers
Posted by Heather on 4/11/2002, 1:08 pm
199.67.140.25
Just a quick question. I've looked at the Airborne Ranger website, as well as some other places, and I just can't get my answer! Are women allowed to be Airborne Rangers? If not, why? Thanks!

Re: Rangers
Posted by R on 4/13/2002, 7:22 pm , in reply to "Rangers"
204.119.242.213
Airborne and Rangers are two different things. You do not have to be Airborne to be Ranger. To be Airborne means to have the qualifications and training to jump from an airplane. You can be any MOS and be Airborne qualified and then be assigned to an Airborne unit. To be a Ranger, you have to be male (see the qualifications on the Resources Page). You also must be Infantry, although Officers can be in other branches also. The debate continues on whether to allow women to enter the Ranger Program (and the Infantry). There are many articles on the pros and cons and I'm sure if you went to www.google.com and typed in "women, ranger school" you'd get lots of hits.

Re: Rangers
Posted by adam on 4/11/2002, 3:10 pm , in reply to "Rangers"
142.179.56.201
To my understanding you first have to pick an MOS allong the lines of Infrantry, before you can become a Ranger. And they do not allow women in infrantry. So I don't think they allow women to be rangers.

Well I pulled a 180.
Posted by Joe on 4/12/2002, 1:18 am
208.16.251.5
I was set to ship out on Man 28th for Jackson for an Intel Analyst, but the more I thought about it the more I wanted something more memorable. So I went in the opposite direction and signed up for 5 years as Airborne Infantry with station of choice in Europe(really hoping for Italy.) I head to Benning on July 23rd for whats sure to be the first step in a wonderful career. HOOAH!

Re: Well I pulled a 180.
Posted by R on 4/13/2002, 7:23 pm , in reply to "Well I pulled a 180."
204.119.242.213
Good luck! I haven't met a soldier yet who didn't remember their European tour fondly! Go with your heart!

Perscription Items
Posted by Mouse on 4/12/2002, 3:30 pm
12.84.6.19
If you went to MEPS and did not list Perscription Items at the time or did not have them then, will you be able to bring them to Basic IF you have a Doctor's note? Like Birthcontrol and Acne Medication?

Re: Perscription Items
Posted by R on 4/13/2002, 7:25 pm , in reply to "Perscription Items"
204.119.242.213
I'm not sure how it works at MEPS. I just know that if someone showed up at our company with prescription meds, we had to send them to the medical treatment facility to get evaluated. If the docs there deemed the meds were necessary (ie birth control, acne meds, etc...) , they were then prescribed there. Maybe someone else can answer how it works at MEPS.

Can I bring?....
Posted by Mike on 4/12/2002, 6:39 pm
65.92.145.112
Can I bring stuff like Immodium to basic? It's embarassing but it's something that I take often because, well, y'know. Thanks.

Re: Can I bring?....
Posted by R on 4/13/2002, 7:28 pm , in reply to "Can I bring?...."
204.119.242.213
Some posts will allow you to use the OTC stuff you bring with you, some don't! I would bring it. The worst that can happen is that they make you put it away, then all you have to do is go on sickcall to get prescribed some. The medical treatment facility does prescribe OTC medications also, so you can get things like Motrin, cold medicine, etc..from them also.

Typical day
Posted by John on 4/13/2002, 1:06 pm
66.1.84.203
What might a typical day be like in BT? Also, do we sleep in the barracks almost every night? Lastly, is AIT like an extention of BT or is it more layed back and relaxed? I appreciate any answers any one may have.

Re: Typical day
Posted by R on 4/13/2002, 7:31 pm , in reply to "Typical day"
204.119.242.213
In the book, I do give a few examples of what the timeschedules look like. Every minute of your day is filled! Read some of the "What is BT like" links on the "Resources Page", and you'll get an idea of what it is like. Most nights in BT you will sleep in the barracks. At the beginning, AIT will seem like an extension of BT as the drill sergeants there "let you know who's in charge". As the time goes by, you will earn privileges and passes, so in that sense, you will be given more freedom to go out and have some fun in your "off time" (non-existent in basic).

Basic Training at Ft Benning
Posted by R on 4/14/2002, 6:18 pm
204.119.245.184
I just wanted to post the discussion below on BT at Ft Benning, if you haven't had a chance to go the boards at Military.com (see link above). I will be leaving for the next few months and won't be able to visit here as much as I would like. I want to wish you all the best if you are already gone when I get back. Please be sure to stop back by for a visit to help the "newbies" and also to give us the latest scoop on BT!
Link: http://forums.military.com/1/OpenTopic?q=Y&a=tpc&s=78919038&f=65819558&m=5191972044
Re: Basic Training at Ft Benning
Posted by Joe on 4/14/2002, 7:46 pm , in reply to "Basic Training at Ft Benning"
208.16.251.5
I read this and I can't wait to go to Benning..from its rep its like New York City If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.
Can I really do this..?
Posted by Grant on 4/14/2002, 10:09 pm
65.69.80.190
I'm going to MEPS on thursday..really excited/nervous/scared...how hard is this..I've done so much reading that I feel like I'm as well informed as possible...is it possible to take an average guy like me that can't do but 10 push-ups and turn into a soldier?
Re: Can I really do this..?
Posted by Joe on 4/15/2002, 6:35 am , in reply to "Can I really do this..?"
208.16.251.5
MEPs can be very intimidating..I was nervous when I went. The Army changes people on a daily basis into soldiers. Take it one step at a time, I look forward to serving with you. Joe

Getting Promoted
Posted by Mouse on 4/15/2002, 10:38 pm
12.84.2.73
okay...say you're an E-1. How do you get promoted to an E-2 without Stripes for Buddies? Or say that you start with a pay grade of E-4 (specialist) ...how do you become a Corporal?

Re: Getting Promoted
Posted by Joe on 4/16/2002, 6:40 am , in reply to "Getting Promoted"
208.16.251.5
To get to E-2 you might be able to do this thing called Common Task Training (I think thats what it is called) Basically you learn some basic stuff you learn at basic training.. (land nav..medical stuff...etc) and have to pass the PT test with a 180 out of 300 and you can get to E-2 Corporal is the same rank as Specialist however Corporal is a leadership position and techiniacally an NCO, they are getting phased out and the only time you really see them is when you need a leadership position...(ie combat arms)

Re: Getting Promoted
Posted by Brandon on 4/16/2002, 4:07 pm , in reply to "Getting Promoted"
128.255.191.196
Promotions from E-1 all the way through E-4 are mainly automatic. It breaks down like this: To become an E-2:6 months active duty to become an E-3:12 months active duty, 4 of which being spent as an E-2 to become an E-4:12 months active duty, 6 of which being spent as an E-3 However, there are exceptions to almost every rule, and commanders can recommend you for a promotion if you show excellent work and progress and leadership capabilities. If you are in a reserve componet of the Army, another way you could advance is if you continue your education. I enlisted as an E-1, but, when I ship to basic in May, I'll be an E-2. That's because 6 days before i ship to basic, I will have completed 27 credit hours from an acccredited and accepted university. Hope this all helpsBrandon

Re: Getting Promoted
Posted by Tim on 4/16/2002, 8:18 pm , in reply to "Getting Promoted"
66.1.84.203
There are ways other than what those have already said to promote. For instance, in basic they are allowed to promote a certain percentage of the recruits to PFC and another certain percent to PV2. There are also some other advantages you can get through other organizations. If you have your eagle you may enlist as an E-2. If you have three years in JROTC (high school ROTC) then you can enlist as an E-3. You can also enlist as an E-3 if you have brought two other individuals with you into the Army, if you convinced to buddies to join because of your enlistment. However if you elist as an E-3 and lets say you do something like split training because you are in school. Then you will not promote until you have done your AIT. AS in my case. I am enlisting as an E-3 and since I am doing the split training, because I am still in high school, I will have to wait until next summer to complete my AIT and then I will be able to promote to E-4. So those are some other exceptions to the rule.

meps physicals
Posted by moss on 4/16/2002, 12:54 am
65.26.24.193
this might sound real stupid what is the meps physical? what do you have to do?

Re: meps physicals
Posted by Joe on 4/16/2002, 6:44 am , in reply to "meps physicals"
208.16.251.5
Its the first step in a military career. You go to a federal building and go through a series of tests such as vision and hearing among others. Then when you are qualified to join the military you go speak with a career counselor to find a job for you to perform while in the service. All in all its a very exhausting (not physically) day where you sit around most of the day..takes about 10-13 hours to do it.

Re: meps physicals
Posted by Brandon on 4/16/2002, 4:19 pm , in reply to "meps physicals"
128.255.191.196
I'm sure you have heard the horrors about the whole MEPS experience, but for the most part, it isn't all that bad. It's probably going to be your first experience with the Army's "Hurry Up and Wait" way of doing things. The medical physical itself is very thorough. There will be lots of paperwork asking about almost every single medical condition you've ever had. Eye tests, hearing tests, and blood tests will all be done. Also, you must give a urine sample, and yes, someone will be "observing" you to make sure it's your own stuff. My advice for the whole urine sample part is to drink alot of water the night before, and hold it all the next day until it is your turn to go. Then just let it all go. Worked for me. The doctor speaks with you about all the medical conditions you listed, and he will make you do the whole "turn your head & cough" and also take a good look at your behind to make sure you are hemmoroid free. Then you'll be "herded" into a room and have to perform silly and ridiculous exercies. It's just to check your hand-eye coordination and mobility. Basically, if you can walk and do jumping jacks, you'll pass. The time is takes to go through MEPS changes for everyone. I've heard up to 12 hours! When I went, there were about 30-35 recruits there, and I got to the facility at 6am, and left at 11:30am, contract signed and everything. I guess I just got lucky, but hey, maybe you will too. Hope this helps.Brandon

housing
Posted by anna on 4/16/2002, 10:29 am
64.34.198.161
do e4's get a single room after basic and ait at their first station?

Re: housing
Posted by hardcoregrunt on 4/17/2002, 8:03 am , in reply to "housing"
204.119.242.169
It is VERY rare. You'll most likely be in a room with at least one if not two other guys. Some posts have upgraded housing to suites that share a bathroom.

Can Somebody Post Some Links That Outline A Beginners' Running Shedule? Starting up?
Posted by Steve on 4/16/2002, 7:31 pm
24.93.214.25
I would be very, very indebted to you. If possible, maybe tell me how you got started at the VERY beginning. Thanks

Re: Can Somebody Post Some Links That Outline A Beginners' Running Shedule? Starting up?
Posted by Geoff on 4/16/2002, 11:40 pm , in reply to "Can Somebody Post Some Links That Outline A Beginners' Running Shedule? Starting up?"
137.192.135.48
Well, this work really well for my friend but give yourself some time to work on this running schedule. You can cut down the number of weeks per phase if you think this is too easy (this schedule is for Super beginner). First two weeksMonday - Jog/walk/run 1 mileTuesday - restWed - Jog/ walk/run 1 mileThursday - restFriday - run 1 miles (non-stop)Sat - weight trainingSunday - run 1 miles (timed)and rest afterward SEcond phase(same schedule...must run 1 mile without stopping for Mon and Wed. For friday and sunday...run 1 mile hard or try running 2 miles) Third phase...just repeat but increase the millage. See if this will help out for ya I recommand to find a buddy to run with you. He/she will be the one that motivate you during the run. Running is really a mind game (because you will keep telling yourself to quit). Try to fight it off

How much do you run in boot camp?
Posted by Bob on 4/16/2002, 8:56 pm
64.12.107.21
Hi How many miles do you run a day in boot camp? How many times a week do you run? How fast do you run a mile? Thanks for the help.

Re: How much do you run in boot camp?
Posted by Skye on 4/17/2002, 7:46 am , in reply to "How much do you run in boot camp?"
131.96.14.64
You run about 1 and a half miles the first week of basic. Then you run about two miles after that. By your six or seventh week it goes into two and a half maybe three depending on what rn group you are in. It will get easier as you are running every other day. Since I am a female the limit to my two mile run is about 18:59, or somewhere around that, but I run mine in 16:30. Which puts me in about the 85 percentile.WRITE BACK!!

Depends.
Posted by Joe on 4/17/2002, 8:03 am , in reply to "How much do you run in boot camp?"
208.16.251.5
Im sure since im going Infantry ill be running more than Skye, it depends a lot on what your MOS is..and where you are going im sure factors in as well.

My Packing List
Posted by Mouse on 4/16/2002, 9:56 pm
12.84.117.42
Okay... Some of this is what I was told to bring if I didn't want to buy anything there. Is it too much or are there stuff I'm not allowed to bring? ((feeling sheepish)) ...some of them ARE girly stuff so if I'm not allowed to bring them, let me know. (((Clothing))) Supply of Casual, Comfortable Clothing (one jeans, 2 t shirts)*No halter tops or ragged shorts 6 pairs of Underwear (White)6 pairs of white, calf-length Cotton athletic socks *No color bands, designs or logos A pair of comfortable mostly white running shoes Eyeglasses *No faddish / stylish eyewear Eyeglass Band (if you wear glasses) Disposable Contacts + Solution-keep them unwrapped (one for arriving, one for going home) Gym Bag or Book bag to carry supplies in Two Locks (padlock with 2 keys) (((Toiletries)))Disposable / Safety Razor with Blades Toothbrush with Case Hairbrush or 6" Black Comb One Washcloths and Towels (white) Antiperspirant (non-aerosol) Shower Shoes Toothpaste Dental Floss Shampoo/Conditioner in one Soap Soap Case Unscented Lotion Lip Balm (nothing colored or scented) Sunscreen (unscented) Toenail Clippers Tweezers(CAUSE...because....)

Re: My Packing List
Posted by Christina on 4/17/2002, 1:56 am , in reply to "My Packing List"
66.81.58.97
Everything on your list seems fine, looks exactly like mine, but I was told by several people who went to Ft. Jackson NOT to buy running shoes b4 u go, because they will make u buy new ones n e ways!!! But if u allready have some u could bring them, and if they wont do, I think they will just store them w/ your other civ. stuff till grad. There is a interesting thread concerning this topic at http://forums.about.com/n/main.asp?ctx=advsearch&webtag=ab-usmilitary N E ways hope this helps, bye

Re: My Packing List
Posted by Skye on 4/17/2002, 7:53 am , in reply to "My Packing List"
131.96.14.64
Hey, don't bring any contacts while you are about to go to basic because you are not suppose to have them. You use your civilian glasses until you get an eye exam, and then you will have to wear theirs called Birth Control Glasses(BCG'S). Anyways make sure you pack smart and light because when you shipout you will have to carry all that into your camp. The might make you even buy even more of what you already have so they know you are ready to ship out. You'll have to go through a check list with them plenty of times when you ship out anyways. Alright! Bye! E-mail me..

You can now enlist directly into Special Forces
Posted by hardcoregrunt on 4/17/2002, 8:01 am
204.119.242.169
They've finally done it. Now it's possible to get into Special Forces right away. Check out this link.
Link: http://www.military.com/Resources/ResourceFileView?ESRC=amry-a.nl&file=Army_SF.htm




This page was last updated on: April 17, 2002