Army Basic Training Archived Messages Page 9 |
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ASVAB ? Posted by J on 5/15/2002, 5:32 pm 67.209.237.8 Does anyone know what you need to get on your ASVAB to be eligible for any job? Do all your Composite Scores need to be over 115 to eligible for any job? Thanks Re: ASVAB ? Posted by Mike Newby on 5/15/2002, 10:46 pm , in reply to "ASVAB ?" 24.209.152.78 J, You need to score, at a minumum 31 (AFQT) for the Army (and most other services). As a rule of thumb, your line scores (seperate tests) need to be a 95 or higher. Now these scores are used to qualify you for specific jobs, so some need to be up in the 110 range, and some can be lower. The lowest possible line scores are 90. It is possible to score a 31 without any qualifying line scores. Just as it is possible to score below 31 with qualifying line scores. If you score between 27 and 31, with qualifying line scores, then you may be eligable for a Category IV waiver. If you score below 31 without any qualifying line scores, then you can retest in 30 days. If you've already retested and still haven't qualified, then you must wait six months to retake the test again. Be sure you can do basic mathmatic functions (add, subtract, multiply, and divide, to include fractions!), and simple algebraic expressions when you take the ASVAB. If you can do those, then passing is a breeze! Good Luck! Laser Eye Surgery? Posted by Scott on 5/15/2002, 6:25 pm 207.233.56.250 I know I should ask my recruiter this, but I was hoping to get a response from someone here first :-)I've already filled out all the paperwork, but have yet to get a physical at MEPS. Will I be BANNED from entering Basic Training if I have Laser Eye Surgery done soon? I ship out, i think, in September, and would like to have the surgery done before I leave.-Scott Re: Laser Eye Surgery? Posted by Mike Newby on 5/15/2002, 10:49 pm , in reply to "Laser Eye Surgery?" 24.209.152.78 Scott, Hold off on the Surgery. If you have it, you won't be leaving for basic. I know it's frustrating that the Militay hasn't bought off on this surgery yet, but I do believe they will very soon. If it would make you feel better, fax the Doctor's notes to the MEPS you took your physical at and see what they say. I don't think they'll encourage it, but if they say it doesn't DQ you, then go for it. drill sargents in basic Posted by jason on 5/15/2002, 7:49 pm 24.55.237.188 i guess we have all heard the stories of drill sargents in basic how it can seem like there physco the way they yell at u or how there just really strict but not going ballistic..i would just like to hear it from someone who has recently been there what there sargents were like cause ive heard a million differnt things Re: drill sargents in basic Posted by Mike Newby on 5/15/2002, 11:09 pm , in reply to "drill sargents in basic" 24.209.152.78 Drill Sergeants are not from this planet. They originally came from the Planet HHHOOOOOOAAAAAHHH!!! Which is somewhere in the Andrameda Galaxy. Their space ship crash landed here in the 50's somewhere out in New Mexico. Some of them survived and then were subjected to several scientific studies which included crossing their genes with Bull Mastiffs and Rotweillers, fed a steady diet of barbed wire and gun powder, and poked in the eyes with sharp sticks. While other were repeatedly beaten, shocked, and set on fire. This undoubtedly explains their sour dispositions. None of them have Mothers. They have all been raised by drunken step-dads who woke them up at all hours of the night by slapping their heads with metal trash can lids and spraying them with garden hoses. Now married, each one wakes up in the morning to a hot cup of coffee being poured on them by their wife (who, by the way, is pissed that their husband is a Drill Sergeant and not a RANGER or SPECIAL OPS!), and then when they report to work they are immediately kicked in the balls by their 1st Sergeant (who's also pissed that he's in charge of Drill Sergeants and not RANGERS or SPECIAL OPS!). As if that weren't enough, they have to also catch it from a fat, overweight, PT failure Company Commander who is assigned to a Basic Training Company because the Army can't afford to take any more officers out of RANGERS or SPECIAL OPS. To say the least, once they get to YOU, you're the bright part of their day. Hope you enjoy it! Some simple questions Posted by Jacqueline on 5/18/2002, 2:12 pm 205.188.193.177 Well I leave may 30 for Leonard Wood, and i was wondering how many pushups I should be able to do. I also wanted to know if I can take pictures of my family with me, and my Bible. Also if there is any other tips you coould give me. I appriciate any help. Thanks Re: Some simple questions Posted by Mike Newby on 5/18/2002, 11:30 pm , in reply to "Some simple questions" 24.209.152.78 You need to be able to do at least 3 push-ups, that's the minimum. The more, the better. Yes, you may take pictures of your family. I highly recommend it. Please remember to keep them within reason. A few pictures, small ones, no posters, etc. Yes, you may take your bible. Once again, use common sense. Don't take the coffee table, biblical historical atlas that's 25,000 illustrated pages. Tip #1 - Pack as lightly as you can, but take what you need. Tip #2 - Wear comfortable clothes and shoes to the MEPS. You'll be wearing them for the next 28-36 hours. Tip #3 - Get plenty of rest the day before you leave. Don't stay up all night visiting with family. Do that the night before the night you leave. Tip #4 - Wear a light jacket or sweater. I can't believe how cold it got in June in New Jersey! God Speed! Keep your head up and don't quit! Mike AIT Living Posted by josh marvin on 5/18/2002, 11:51 pm 66.64.13.141 what are the living arrangements like in AIT? i was at ft. hood today (with DEP) and they said you live in the single soldiers quarters, is that true? anyone that has info, thanks alot josh Re: AIT Living Posted by Mike Newby on 5/19/2002, 7:07 am , in reply to "AIT Living" 24.209.152.78 Every AIT is different. They all have their own unique living conditions, arrangments, command climate, etc. When I went to AIT in 1986, at Ft. Eustis, we pretty much had every weekend off. As long as we were soldiers during the week, the weekend was ours. Some other places aren't like that at all. Some are more an extension of BT. As for living quarters, you only have what's available on post. If they haven't updated or build new in 20 years, then that's what you have. Go to AIT expecting the worse, then every little bit that's better than Basic will be a pleasant suprise. Mike No PDA at Graduation? Posted by BruEva on 5/21/2002, 8:04 am 165.123.243.13 My wife is currently at Ft Jackson and is graduating in a couple of weeks. She just wrote me a letter and told me that they are not allowed to show any public displays of affection during graduation except for a small hug or hand shake. I haven't seen my wife in over 9 weeks and all I can do is give her a short hug. The DS even told her that he would drop them in front of their family if he caught anyone. Are they nuts? This isn't going to be easy. Re: No PDA at Graduation? Posted by Mike Newby on 5/21/2002, 10:00 pm , in reply to "No PDA at Graduation?" 24.209.152.78 Congratulations on your Wife's graduation from Basic!! She's right, no PDA's! It's not that the Army wants to keep you in total frustration by not letting you see or be with your wife for 9 long weeks. They just want to see her remain a professional while she's in uniform. Yes, you guys can hug once you see each other, but it shouldn't turn into a grope session with french kisses if you know what I mean. Once you guys get back to the hotel room, do whatever it is that married couples do. The Drill Sergeants would expect you to! enlistment bonus Posted by will on 5/21/2002, 4:31 pm 66.92.100.102 I've already enlisted but found out that I qualified for a $8000 bonus for having 60+ college credits. When I signed up I got the basic $2000 for my MOS, can I still claim that bonus? Re: enlistment bonus Posted by Mike Newby on 5/21/2002, 10:03 pm , in reply to "enlistment bonus" 24.209.152.78 Check your paperwork you got from the MEPS. You're 1966-2 & 3 will spell out word for word what bonuses you're entitled to. If it ain't there, chances are slim you're going to get it. Good Luck! Basic Training at Fort Benning Posted by Matthew on 5/22/2002, 9:41 pm 65.58.50.134 Hi my name is matthew and i hear so many different stories on what to pack and what happens when you are down there. If there is anyone that can brief me on basic and what to expect please relply. Also do we get tested like "in class" tests on bombs or whatever. Thank you. Go Infrantry! HOOAH! Re: Basic Training at Fort Benning Posted by Mike Newby on 5/22/2002, 10:53 pm , in reply to "Basic Training at Fort Benning" 24.209.152.78 Matt, Congrats on your Army enlistment! Infantry is an outstanding job in the Army. Lots of potential to do alot of different things with that. Check the link provided for what to take to BT. Also, you may want to check out this link for what to expect when you get down there. http://www-benning.army.mil/bctb/ It will also answer your question about the "testing" that will be accomplished. Link: Ft Benning Packing List Re: Basic Training at Fort Benning Posted by Jane on 5/23/2002, 8:13 am , in reply to "Basic Training at Fort Benning" 12.235.216.72 Expect to be tired. Expect to be at reception for nearly a month. Expect it to suck! My bf is there right now. Has been in basic for 8 weeks now, but at Benning for 11 weeks. He'll be starting the ait part, but says they get smoked more now than they did in the beginning. He hasn't mentioned tests but I wouldn't worry about it too much, I'm sure they'll prepare you for what you need to know. Because its infantry, you'll be doing things a little bit different than the shedule they show on the goarmy site. I'm not sure about packing. I think there is one on the Benning site, or on the goarmy site that he used. Re: Basic Training at Fort Benning Posted by Jane on 5/23/2002, 8:21 am , in reply to "Re: Basic Training at Fort Benning" 12.235.216.72 Looks like the poster above gave you a link to just the combat training. If you're going infantry, you that page isn't the one you want, I don't think. I don't really understand what that page is for, actually. This page:http://www-benning.army.mil/itb/lists his grad date... he's 11b so if that's what you are, this page is probably more helpful. Re: Basic Training at Fort Benning Posted by Mike Newby on 5/23/2002, 10:44 am , in reply to "Re: Basic Training at Fort Benning" 24.209.152.78 Hi Jane, The link I gave is for the Basic Combat Training Brigade. It looks like they have no less than 3 home pages! They don't call it just "Basic Training" at FT Benning. They call it "Basic Combat Training". FT Benning is it's own world. Almost all their soldiers are going to be infanty, and there are no females going through basic training there. I won't say the standard is higher, they won't say it before you get there either, but it's definately implied. Link: http://www-benning.army.mil/bctb/Default.htm Leave/Vacation Time Posted by Dan on 5/22/2002, 10:41 pm 66.119.34.39 I have some questions about your paid leave and vacation time. Do you usually get major holidays, like Thanksgiving or Christmas, off? And if you do, does it take away from your 30 days per year or do they just give it to you? Re: Leave/Vacation Time Posted by Mike Newby on 5/22/2002, 11:01 pm , in reply to "Leave/Vacation Time" 24.209.152.78 Dan, Not nit-picking, but the leave is tracked 2.5 days per month, not by "30 days a year". You won't get it in 30 day blocks, but in 2.5 day increments each month. With that said... Federal Holidays in the Army are usually days off. Most of them will be scheduled into what we call "3-day weekends". You may even be lucky enough to get them rolled into a "4-day weekend". You may be fortunate enough to take them without having to use your leave time. Let's say for instance, I'm staying at FT Hood for Thanksgiving. I would normally get Thanksgiving, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday off. I may even get that time off and go home to Chicago for the weekend. Once again, not having to use my leave time for this since it fell on a National Holiday. BUT... if I wanted to take Monday off also, or the Wednesday before off, I would have to take leave time AND factor in the "4-day weedend" into that leave time. In other words, I couldn't take the "4-day weekend" in congjunction with leave. I would either have to take the "4-day weekend" and return, or take 5 days of leave. One or the other. I know it sucks, but to be honest about it, not many jobs out there has as good a time off package as the Military does! Be Strong Posted by Pvt. Young on 5/23/2002, 2:06 am 12.232.57.166 To those of you who are going into basic training, I just finished my basic and AIT training at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri, Look.. the first 2 weeks are the hardest but if you have the will to be strong then you will be just fine. I was totaly out of shape when I got there and even failed my first PT test. but by the time I left basic I was in the best shape i have ever been in. The key to training is it is all mental, if you tell yourself you can do it you will, but if you tell yourself you can't then you will fail.remember to not take things personal, the drill sargents are tough and they will break you down, but then you get built back up, and your a stronger person, and you will be proud of what you have accomplished when you walk off that stage in your class a's. Remember that its all mental, the 1st 2 weeks are the hardest, after that its what you make of it. Do what your told and you will have no problems. When you get to AIT it will be all worth it. GOOD LUCK!! Hooah Re: Be Strong Posted by J on 5/23/2002, 11:12 am , in reply to "Re: Be Strong" 67.209.237.197 hey i was wondering if you could provide the daily PT while at BT. thanks Re: Be Strong Posted by Pvt. Young on 5/24/2002, 6:22 pm , in reply to "Re: Be Strong" 12.232.57.166 The Daily PT is alot of push ups, and sit up to help you pass your PT tests, and also alot of running in basic training you do this mon-sat. and in AIT you do PT mon-fri. Re: Be Strong Posted by matt on 5/23/2002, 6:43 pm , in reply to "Re: Be Strong" 63.21.146.52 is it allowed to bring your own contacts,or glasses?do you have time to write home?were there ant older guys in your basic? how did they hold up? thanks matt Re: Be Strong Posted by Pvt. Young on 5/24/2002, 6:25 pm , in reply to "Re: Be Strong" 12.232.57.166 if you wear contacts you will not be able to wear them in Basic training you will be issued military glasses when you get to Reception. you can bring your contacts, but won't be able to wear them till you get to AIT, and you have your off post passes for the weekend. Re: Be Strong Posted by Heather on 5/24/2002, 7:22 am , in reply to "Re: Be Strong" 199.67.140.25 I was wondering if you had any free time in AIT. I've heard rumors that you sometimes get as much as an entire weekend off while you're there. What was your experience like? Thanks! Re: Be Strong Posted by Pvt. Young on 5/24/2002, 6:29 pm , in reply to "Re: Be Strong" 12.232.57.166 You will have alot of free time on the weekends in AIT depending on where you have AIT , you usually have on post pass till you pass your I.N.5 (inspection), then you will get off post pass. AIT is pretty kick back its not at all like Basic training. you will enjoy it, I never thought I would miss it but now I do, try to have as much fun in AIT as you can, because it goes by pretty fast. MOS Stuff Posted by Scott on 5/24/2002, 8:36 pm 4.33.146.124 Hey all. I just got the book that is advertised on this websight...I was reading it, and it said that I should pick an MOS that I can live with, because it's near impossible to change after its picked.I am going OCS after Basic, and I want to work for Military Intel (I am going into the NATIONAL GUARD). However, my recruiter told me to sign with the Quartermasters people, because first of all, the commander is really good with doing paper work, and secondly, once I leave OCS, he (The recruiter) CLAIMS that I will be able to pick which MOS I wish to work in (Well, he said I will have the option of chossing three, and getting one). I know this is not a direct BASIC TRAINING question, but I was hoping someone with knowledge could answer this. Am i getting the shaft and being placed into the Quartermasters unit to appease the Recruiters commanders friend....or is my recruiter correct in what he is saying?-Scott Re: MOS Stuff Posted by Mike Newby on 5/25/2002, 9:52 am , in reply to "MOS Stuff" 24.209.152.78 Yes, the general rule of thumb is to go into a job you would like to do. Why didn't you go into a job in the 96 Career Management Field? Check the link below to see the different jobs. Do you even have an MI unit in your State? You also need to realize that once you decide you want to be an Officer, the Army decides what CMF you will serve in. You may get to put down three preferences, but the bottom line will be needs of the Army. If you want to maintain strict control over what you do as far as jobs, stay enlisted; they have much more control over it. But as far as Officers go, you get to do what you're told. That's what they're paying you the big bucks for! One sure way to get an MI job is to pull a double major in college. Middle eastern studies, with a foreign language such as Arabic, Pashtun, or some other regional dialect would just about guarantee you the MI community would want you. People who want to be MI are about a dime a dozen. People who can offer the MI community something are really sought after. Congrats on your enlistment, and good luck at OCS! Re: MOS Stuff Posted by Mike Newby on 5/26/2002, 8:40 am , in reply to "Re: MOS Stuff" 24.209.152.78 Scott, The only way you could attend the DLI (Defense Language Institute), would be if the Army, Army Reserve, National Guard, or some other branch were to send you there. I don't know of any quartermaster soldiers going. With that said, you need to ask your recruiter how joining the quartermaster unit is going to help you get MI. Also, ask about your specific job, quartermaster is a CMF (career management field), not a job. Going to OCS is a really great option, once you understand that you aren't going to choose what your branch is going to be. The Army is going to look at your qualifications, and their needs when branching you. If you are going to be a nurse, then common sense dictates that you also be an Army nurse. If you're going to be a lawyer, common sense once again dictates, an Army lawyer. If you're going to be MI, what are you doing to make that an attractive fit for the Army? How many MI officers have you talked to? Does the MI unit have any positions open? What are the qualifications to become MI enlisted? These are question YOU need answers for. Now, another thing you need to know is that MI jobs are some of the most academically challenging jobs in the Military. Are you prepared to sacrifice the next few years studying and applying yourself to learn what you must to become qualified? Can you pass the ASVAB with a 75 or higher? Can you pass the DLAB with a 110 or higher? This is approximately the equivalent of scoring 24+ on the ACT. These aren't necessarily the standards, just good measuring tools to determine if you are a right mix academically for MI. Check out the provided link to learn more. Good Luck, and I really do hope that all works out for you. Mike Link: http://www.loyola.edu/dept/politics/milintel.html Re: MOS Stuff Posted by Scott on 5/26/2002, 1:51 pm , in reply to "Re: MOS Stuff" 4.33.146.124 Wow Mike, again, thanks a billion for all the INCREDIBLY HELPFUL information you have given me!Yes, I scored an 84 on the ASVAB, and I am taking the DLAB in a week or so.My recruiter took me down to the MI unit and they have positions open for officers (I am not sure about enlisted. But this was told to me by a friend of my recruiter, who happens to be a fellow recruiter, who is stationed at the MI unit....so I was a bit weary that he was just telling me what I wanted to hear (Which is awfuly annoying, because I made it quite clear that I WAS JOINING the ANG regardless, and I just wanted straight answers to help plan my course).The next time I sit down with my recruiter, I am going to tell him a fwe things, and see what he says.Another question for ya Mike, since you seemt o know so much ;-)...When I go down to MEPS to get my medical done, and to sign up, they will sit me down with a career planner, or some person who helps you pick your MOS, correct? If that is the case, does the recruier have any impact at all on my MOS? For example, if I go talk to the MOS person, and tell him I want to work for MI, and show him all of my qualifications, will he sugget, and then place me, in MI, or will he just show me the jobs available, and leave the rest to my recruiter?Thanks, Re: MOS Stuff Posted by Mike Newby on 5/27/2002, 12:33 am , in reply to "Re: MOS Stuff" 24.209.152.78 Just tell your recruiter that you want to enlist into the MI unit. You will need a valid line and paragraph (vacancy) to be slotted into. If the unit's full, ask how long it will be until someone is discharged from it. Most units have a vacancy or two each month. You may have to wait a couple of months, but it will be well worth it if that's the job you want. It's ok to tell a recruiter no. That's not what they want to hear, but if you're qualified for the position, then he'll go the extra mile and make sure you get it. But... if you're not qualified for the position, don't waste his and your time on something that can't be done. Enlist into another job and pursue your OCS plans through that route.One thing nice about the Military, there are several ways to get where you want to go. You just have to ask questions, be persistent, and recognize that when the door of opportunity is open, you need to step through it! Mike ft.knox basic training Posted by jason on 5/26/2002, 12:25 am 24.55.237.188 anyone been to ft. knox latley for basic training? how was it? Re: ft.knox basic training Posted by Mike Newby on 5/27/2002, 12:43 am , in reply to "Re: ft.knox basic training" 24.209.152.78 FT Knox, I stopped there in 1992 to replace a hydraulic pump on a UH-60. They seemed to have a really nice NCO Club. If I remember correctly we had BBQ ribs and the potato salad was excellent. It was hot and hilly, I remember noticing that and I wasn't going through any type of training. Check out the link for more info on it. Link: http://knox-www.army.mil/ Making a career/benefits Posted by Pedro on 5/26/2002, 10:37 pm 66.119.34.39 I'm considering going 3 years enlisted active duty, then finishing college, doing ROTC, and doing around 17 years of reserves. With that adding up to 20 years, will I be elegible for some kind of benefits, at least the kind that soldiers with 20 years reserves do? Re: Making a career/benefits Posted by Mike Newby on 5/27/2002, 12:22 am , in reply to "Making a career/benefits" 24.209.152.78 Pedro, Yes, in theory your plan will work. One of least understood aspects of the Reserve Military Forces is their retirement system. Below is a link that explains it. Good Luck! Link: http://navy-reserve.org/Retire/aboutresret.html depression Posted by moss on 5/27/2002, 2:48 am 65.26.22.81 if you had a case of depression about 12 years ago can that keep you from enlisting? Re: depression Posted by Mike Newby on 5/27/2002, 9:29 am , in reply to "depression" 24.209.152.78 Not necessarily. Get all you related med records together and present them when you take your physical. Better to let the Doctor make the call on that than go with what others "think". I've seen it go both ways. Some of the things they are going to look at will be: 1) How long was the depression? 2) Were there any suicide attempts? 3) Medication; what kind, how much, for how long? It's very tempting to hide this type of information, but one thing you have to realize is that depression is a very, very serious illness. A qualified Doctor needs to make the call on whether you qualify for military service or not. Good luck! Mike reception Posted by moss on 5/28/2002, 5:01 am 65.26.22.81 what kind of shots if any do you get at reception? Re: reception Posted by Mike Newby on 5/29/2002, 7:32 pm , in reply to "reception" 24.209.152.78 Follow this link for the answer to your question about the type of "shots". Link: http://usmilitary.about.com/library/milinfo/blvaccinations.htm Questions and Concerns! Please help! Posted by Matthew on 5/29/2002, 7:24 pm 65.56.220.123 Hi my name is matthew and i leave for basic June 3rd at Fort Benning, Geogia. I am very excited, however i have some questions i hope any of you can answear them for me. Ok well first, I have a friend who is shipping out on the same day and everything, is he going to be in my platoon or company to? or how do they slipt everyone up? second, what do i pack? I was told just the basic stuff like personall hygine stuff, running shoes and 3 days worth of clothing? Well thank you and please respond! Hooah! Re: Questions and Concerns! Please help! Posted by Mike Newby on 5/29/2002, 8:53 pm , in reply to "Questions and Concerns! Please help!" 24.209.152.78 Check out the provided link for your packing list. You will probably be with your buddy all the way through the reception battalion. After that it will be all up to luck on whether or not you stay together. Don't worry; you'll make plenty of friends while you're there! Best of luck, Mike Link: http://www-benning.army.mil/bctb/PackingList/packing.htm Questions on contract Posted by Teabags on 5/30/2002, 5:14 am 209.244.225.72 I am looking for some assistance. I joined the Army NG with the OCS option and completed Basic in April. However, I had to withdraw from the OCS program due to a medical reason. My sponsor was an Intel battalion, and they told me I could now go to AIT as whatever I wanted. I chose 96B - Intel Analyst - but now a month later they are telling me that I cannot go as 96B because my contract says 31U, which I don't want to do. When I went to Basic, my MOS said 09S, which is for the OCS option. However, I did not anticipate having to withdraw from OCS, but that is what happened. 31U was put on my original contract by my recruiter who assured me that it did not matter, because my BS degree was in Communications and the MOS had to at least say something similar. I was never given an option to pick three possible MOS. I went into the NG to get a Top Secret clearance and do Intel work, because I wish to do the same in the civilian world. However, I do not know if I can still get what I want. Am I stuck with 31U? Any help would be much appreciated. Re: Questions on contract Posted by Mike Newby on 5/30/2002, 9:46 am , in reply to "Questions on contract" 24.209.152.78 Teabags, Don't mean to sound harsh about this, but it sounds like you only want to serve on your country on your terms, no one else's. That's unfortunately a very disturbing trend in today's military.I understand that you're a bit let down about the OCS situation. Did it ever occur to you to have a backup plan? That being the MOS you wanted if you didn't make it through? What to do now. I would start at the unit. Make your case that you would like to be a 96B, if they have a vacancy, and if you qualify. I don't see why they wouldn't do it. 31U's are a dime a dozen, with just about any recruit being able to fill the job. 96B qualified individuals are a little harder to come by. But remember, INTEL units are very popular. They may not have a vacancy. Also, the qualifications for Intel jobs are very high. I know you're educated (at least on paper), but that doesn't mean anything when it comes to GT scores and DLAB quals. Don't fall into the trap of thinking that since you were OCS qualified, then the enlisted world should allow you to do what you want. Doesn't work that way. Many of us have degrees, but have chosen to do what we do for various other reasons. Some, believe it or not, chose what they did so they could serve their country. You having a communications degree really had no bearing whatsoever on your secondary MOS being 31U. Your recruiter, and the unit, needed that slot filled and so it went to you. It's unfortunate that he explained it the way he did.Best of luck, Mike How heavy are the ruck sacks during basic? Posted by Jenny on 5/30/2002, 8:22 am 165.247.176.44 Does anyone know how heavy the ruck sacks in basic training are? I have heard they are 90 lbs but one recruiter told me they are 35 lbs. I am pretty petite and weigh about 106 lbs. I am not a weakling, but I have a hard time imagening that I will be able to complete the 15K road march while lugging a rucksack which weighs almost as much as I do. If they are 90 lbs I better increase my readiness level lol... Thanks for any information = ) Re: How heavy are the ruck sacks during basic? Posted by Mike Newby on 5/30/2002, 9:49 am , in reply to "How heavy are the ruck sacks during basic?" 24.209.152.78 Jenny, Most of the time they will weigh below 18lbs. Sometimes as light as 12lbs and maybe occasionally 35lbs when you go to FTX at then end of Basic. Never 90lbs (unless of course, you go to the Special Forces Q Course, then prepare for 100+!!) I would train with a 25lb ruck if I were you. Best of luck, Mike Re: How heavy are the ruck sacks during basic? Posted by CMS on 6/15/2002, 11:45 pm , in reply to "How heavy are the ruck sacks during basic?" 65.31.133.239 Hey there, for us each roadmarch that we took in basic we packed our rucks heavier. By our final FTX our rucks weighed around 65lbs. It took alot of us females a while to get used to it, but your body adapts. GOOD LUCK! Stress Fractures Posted by Jon on 5/31/2002, 8:59 pm 152.163.201.62 I am scheduled to ship out July 30th to BCT. X rays may reveal stress fractures. Want to know if I need to delay BCT can I work out a new contract? If doctor can clear me before BCT, am I at high risk for discharge? Re: Stress Fractures Posted by Mike Newby on 6/1/2002, 9:39 pm , in reply to "Stress Fractures" 24.209.152.78 YES!!!! You need at least 90 days, preferably 120 to completely heal from stress fractures. I highly doubt you would make it, unless you have a very high threshold for pain and lots of luck. Get yourself healed up, plenty of rehab, then go for it. Mike meps physicals Posted by rob on 6/1/2002, 3:16 am 65.26.22.81 what if they find a hemmroid during the physical does that keep you from enlisting? Re: meps physicals Posted by Mike Newby on 6/1/2002, 10:06 pm , in reply to "meps physicals" 24.209.152.78 They don't specifically check for them, and I can't recall if you're asked about them on the Med forms. By the way... everyone has Hemorrhoids. The only problem is when they become inflamed. Take it from someone with experience. Once they begin to bleed, just go in and have them worked on. It's a relatively simple procedure and very easy to correct. Leaving them uncorrected can lead to more serious problems down the road. Check out the provided link and you may be able to "self treat" them. Good luck. Link: http://www.mayoclinic.com/invoke.cfm?id=DS00096 Linguist Posted by Tony on 6/1/2002, 9:40 pm 12.93.34.90 How tough is it to land a linguist job if you have messed-up credit? Anybody who can offer any answers to this would be helpful. Re: Linguist Posted by Mike Newby on 6/1/2002, 9:58 pm , in reply to "Linguist" 24.209.152.78 It can be pretty tough. Depends on how bad it's "messed up". You're more than likely going to need a Top Secret security clearance. If you've been through any kind of forclosure or repo, then it's probably not going to happen. Once again, depends on how bad. processing Posted by Angela on 6/2/2002, 1:50 pm 205.188.201.146 How long do you usually have to wait to go to basic--I know that people in the air force right now are having to wait a while? How long did you have to wait to leave? Re: processing Posted by CMS on 6/15/2002, 11:37 pm , in reply to "processing" 65.31.133.239 It all depends on when you join and what you answer. I joined the Army and left for basic within a week. So it all depends on when you want to go. combat water survival test Posted by Spider on 6/2/2002, 9:40 pm 165.124.28.60 I'm somewhat nervous about the Combat Water Survival Test. I know it has 3 parts, 15 meter swim, equipment removal and 3 meter drop. I am not the best swimmer in the world and I am anxious to hear from anyone who has recently been through this test. Were the Drills very tough in their standards or are they flexible in the way they run it? How proficient of a swimmer do you really need to be? Anyone got any advice or feedback?Thanks. Re: combat water survival test Posted by Mike Newby on 6/3/2002, 12:13 pm , in reply to "combat water survival test" 24.209.152.78 I don't think you'll be required to take this in Basic. Are you thinking RIP program? Mike Re: combat water survival test Posted by Spider on 6/3/2002, 5:11 pm , in reply to "Re: combat water survival test" 165.124.28.50 Actually I'm going to ARNG OCS. I think the water test is administered in the first week and it's definitely given early during Infantry OBC, which is the path I hope to take. Anyone got any recent experiences of this Combat Water Survival Test? Re: combat water survival test Posted by Spider on 6/4/2002, 10:00 am , in reply to "Re: combat water survival test" 165.124.28.45 I saw it on various websites for different NG OCS systems. Minnesota has a goos OCS site, though I can't remember the exact link, you'll have to Google it. Info about the Combat Water Survival Test is available on most training sites, lots of it on Benning's. You could Google this too, as it is a standard Army test, like APFT etc. Need some help!!! Posted by Giovanni on 6/4/2002, 8:39 am 24.97.114.28 I enlisted a few weeks ago but I won't be leaving for basic training until the end of August. I rent my own apartment and I am pretty much breaking my lease. Now my landlord is being a #$@! and is trying to tell me that he will bring me to court for breaking my lease. Does anyone know if there is any protection against this or if there is anything i can do? Re: Need some help!!! Posted by Mike Newby on 6/5/2002, 11:21 pm , in reply to "Need some help!!!" 24.209.152.78 It's called the Soldier Sailor Relief Act. Read it for yourself. Link provided. Good Luck, Mike Link: http://usmilitary.about.com/library/milinfo/sscra/blchap4-5.htm security clearance Posted by dan on 6/4/2002, 8:34 pm 67.195.63.83 I am going into a unit that requires a secret clearance. I told the army about everything I have done that involved that law, and gotten wavers on them all when I joined. I just would like to know what do they do in getting a security clearance? How much do they go into your past what are they looking for? do they look at court cases that you have told them about and have gotten a waver on Re: security clearance Posted by Mike Newby on 6/5/2002, 11:17 pm , in reply to "security clearance" 24.209.152.78 Yes, they look at everything. The fact that you told them about it only matters that you did not try to hide it, which means... you're not a fruadualant enlistment. At least not for the things you told them about! Check out the provided link for more info. Link: http://www.dss.mil/ One Mile Run Posted by Scott on 6/5/2002, 7:04 pm 207.233.56.250 What is the time limit for running the One MIle RUn at processing? I read it was 8:30, but I have been hearing that its been bumped up to 9:00. Is this just rumor, or do certain bases have different requirements?-Scott Re: One Mile Run Posted by eric on 6/6/2002, 5:58 am , in reply to "One Mile Run" 152.163.197.73 it is 8:30 if it takes you 9 your going to fat camp and thats army fat camp. Re: One Mile Run Posted by kristine on 6/11/2002, 2:58 pm , in reply to "Re: One Mile Run" 63.172.137.119 i have heard of fat camp but what do u do in it and what all gets u put in it? fat camp Posted by heather on 6/12/2002, 7:45 am , in reply to "Re: One Mile Run" 199.67.140.25 Well, Kristine, what my counselor told me is that when you first get to reception, you have to be able to do 3 pushups, 17 situps and a 10 minute mile. If you can't do that, you're going to fat camp. (keep up that those numbers are a lot lower than what you're actually going to need to pass the pt test) Re: fat camp Posted by Axl Rose on 6/17/2002, 6:56 am , in reply to "Re: fat camp" 211.224.149.146 During your initial assessment to get into basic, its a 1 mile run in under 8:30 I beleive. Be sure that you can pass the initial assessment when you arrive, or else delay your enlistment, cause I've heard nasty stories about FTU (fat camp) Good news about stress fractures and shin splints Posted by Jon on 6/5/2002, 8:04 pm 152.163.201.193 All you need to do is stay off of it for one month, resume running the next month before you ship out you'll be fine. do exercises like the bike or a cross trainer and you'll be set! good luck to all ! Jon AIT- Married? Posted by Kathy on 6/6/2002, 9:16 pm 209.214.192.163 If your AIT is for 1 year, can your family come there with you? I couldn't imagine being apart that long. Re: AIT- Married? Posted by Heather on 6/7/2002, 7:01 am , in reply to "AIT- Married?" 199.67.138.25 Well ... my AIT is quite long as well, so what my fiance is going to do is get an apartment where I'm going. That way, we can visit when I get weekends off. As far as I know, though, you will not be able to live with your family, if that's what you were looking to do. phone priveleges??? Posted by Lisa on 6/6/2002, 9:27 pm 152.163.197.63 my boyfriend is leaving for fort jackson in less than a month and i was just wondering if he can call home?? and if so how long does he have to talk and how often will he be able to call home? like how many times during basic? i would appreciate it if someone would answer my question.thank you for your time. Re: phone priveleges??? Posted by Brueva on 6/7/2002, 11:03 am , in reply to "phone priveleges???" 165.123.243.13 My Wife is just finishing up at Ft Jackson now so I guess I can give you a pretty good idea of what to expect. They are allowed to call you the day they get there to let you know they arrived safe, but it is a really quick phone call. The week or so that she spent in reception she called me two times and was only for 5 minutes. Then nothing for about a month after that. Then, expect 5 minute phone calls once a week (Sundays evenings). There were two occasions where we talked for 20 minutes, and now she calls on Tuesdays and Thursdays as well but still for only 5 minutes. I hope that helps. Good luck to your boyfriend. Re: phone priveleges??? Posted by heather on 6/7/2002, 12:42 pm , in reply to "Re: phone priveleges???" 199.67.138.25 Hi, Brueva. How did you handle having your wife away for all that time? How long will she be in AIT when she's finished w/ basic? I'm leaving soon and I'm worried that all the time apart is going to be hard on my boyfriend (we've been living together for 2 years, so it's going to be quite a change).I'd appreciate any advice you have for him Thanks, Heather Re: phone priveleges??? Posted by Brueva on 6/7/2002, 1:21 pm , in reply to "Re: phone priveleges???" 165.123.243.13 Heather, in a way I am really lucky because my wife joined the National Guard so she doesn't have to go to AIT right away...THANK GOD! I can tell you this, her being away wasn't the easiest thing to deal with but it is just about over for now. I wrote to her almost every day and that seemed to help both of us. It will probably be hard for you to do but try to write to him as often as you can, it is the best medicine there is while you are there. It will be a change for him but just remind him that it isn't forever. The one thing that keeps me going more than anything else though is that I can't wait to see her and then see her graduate. I am SO PROUD of her. I can honestly tell you that the saying, "Absence makes the heart grow fonder" could never be more true. The best of luck to you at BCT Re: phone priveleges??? Posted by Lisa on 6/7/2002, 10:28 pm , in reply to "Re: phone priveleges???" 205.188.196.49 thank you very much for your help! now was the 20 minute phone call during basic or ait? i do believe the saying "absence makes the heart grow fonder" we broke up for a month here recently and i love him more now than i ever thought possible. i just have to keep telling myself that this isnt forever and that he will be coming home. im going to miss him so much. well anyways thanks again. Re: phone priveleges??? Posted by Brueva on 6/8/2002, 8:20 pm , in reply to "Re: phone priveleges???" 208.59.97.145 The 20 minutes was when she was at BCT. I just got off the phone with her a little while ago and we were on for a 1/2hour. They just finished Victory Forge two days ago so I guess they give them more privledges now. Re: phone priveleges??? Posted by Lisa on 6/9/2002, 12:33 am , in reply to "Re: phone priveleges???" 64.12.107.38 so i guess what you are saying is that they only get 5 min phone calls at first and then a longer amount of time later on. they are more strict at the beginning and loosen up towards the end. i would say it will give me something to look forward to but i dont want to get my hopes up. so as of right now i'll just look forward to seeing him at his graduation. but in the mean time i'll keep my cell phone on me!!! thank you for answering that question for me! Re: phone priveleges??? Posted by kristine on 6/11/2002, 2:53 pm , in reply to "Re: phone priveleges???" 63.172.137.119 i just had a friend go to basic in fj and he said that they got a new commander and she has made a rule that from 8am till 2pm is free time and that they can call write do what ever and he has actually been calling a bunch and for quite a long time too i wish yall all the best and i hope i get to call a lot too-i am leaving for bt at fj july 30 8 to 2? Posted by Heather on 6/12/2002, 7:43 am , in reply to "Re: phone priveleges???" 199.67.140.25 That's the first time I've heard anything about that free time from 8 to 2 stuff as well. How could you be in boot camp and not do ANYTHING until 2pm??? Just doesn't make sense... Re: 8 to 2? Posted by kristine on 6/12/2002, 2:55 pm , in reply to "Re: 8 to 2?" 63.172.137.78 well he is in boot right now and that is what is going on they have to do their laundry and stuff like that and clean up the bay and they can write letters and call home and stuff like that its not everyday just sun 2nd ranger battalion Fort Lewis Posted by greeny on 6/6/2002, 10:10 pm 207.42.222.68 I was wondering how long the wait is between RIP and Ranger School. Also at Fort Lewis do single enlisted soldiers have to live in the dormitory type rooms or can you live off-post with the BAH.Thanx Re: 2nd ranger battalion Fort Lewis Posted by eric on 6/7/2002, 10:02 am , in reply to "2nd ranger battalion Fort Lewis" 205.188.200.202 im going into the 2nd ranger battalion but ill me married by then and my rank will be e-4. It depends on your rank and how much income you have if you live of base. plus if your a ranger and not an officer most likely you will live on base. You leave like a couple days after ranger school to your duty station. how old are you Re: 2nd ranger battalion Fort Lewis Posted by Mike Newby on 6/7/2002, 4:23 pm , in reply to "2nd ranger battalion Fort Lewis" 24.209.152.78 First and most important - You will be attending the Ranger Indoctrination Program once you complete Basic Combat Training. When you pass that, you will proceed to the 2nd Ranger Battalion. You are still not "ranger" qualified, but you will be assigned to a ranger unit. Once you get there and prove yourself, you will then be selected to go to the Ranger School. Don't expect that to be anytime soon. The Ranger Battalion will see that you're ready when your time comes. Ranger School is arguably the toughest course in ANY service, ANY country, and the Ranger BN makes sure the soldiers that they send don't embarass themselves or their unit. Single soldiers assigned to the 2nd Ranger BN will also be assigned a barracks room. You won't be home enough to want to live anywhere else. You won't get BAH either. See the provided link for info. Mike Link: http://www.goarmy.com/job/branch/75th/enlisted.html Fort Sill Posted by J on 6/7/2002, 4:53 pm 67.243.21.246 Anyone going or know anything about Fort Sill? I will be shipping out June 27, can't wait!!! Re: Fort Sill Posted by Mike Newby on 6/7/2002, 11:00 pm , in reply to "Fort Sill" 24.209.152.78 Take sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm. Stay out of the "60 ft hole". If you get a free weekend (unlikely) climb Mt. Scott and visit the Medicine Bluffs. If the Drill Sergeants ask you to jump, ask "How high?" while on the way up. Don't volunteer for anything, unless it's your lucky day. How do you know if it's your lucky day? That's what you have to decide. Don't fall out of a formation PT run unless you've died. Good Luck! Mike Re: Fort Sill Posted by Will on 6/11/2002, 7:42 am , in reply to "Re: Fort Sill" 66.92.100.102 Hey I'm headed out to Fort Sill on June 26 for basic. I hear it is a artillery training grounds, so prepare to hear cannons roaring from morning till night.My brother, who is in basic training right now, says that Fort Benning is the hardest basic because the drill sargeants said so. He tells me to learn the General Orders, rank structure, military time, and military alphabet before going. ARNG and Counter Intel Posted by Scott on 6/7/2002, 9:27 pm 4.33.146.124 Ok, I KNOW this isnt a BASIC TRAINING QUestion, but I'm kind of desperate for answers here, and would really appreciate some feed back :-)Ok...I just got through a MAJOR battle with my father over this issue, so ANY response from an EXPERIENCED person would be greatly appreciated.I want to join the FBI. At least, I THINK I do. Counter Intel interests me, and the FBI has been somewhat of a dream job of mine. However, I am not SURE it's what I want to do. So my answer is JOIN THE NATIONAL GUARD! That way, I can work on MI, AND have Military Setvice...to boot, I would be going in as an OFFICER due to my college education (My contract is already made up on that point). Here's the problem. My father is CONVINCED that the ARMY would NOT select me to work for Counter Intel, because of my "weekend warrior" status. In other words, they wouldnt pay someone who only works One weekend a month, two months a year to go learn a languiage in Monteray California, and then work in Counter Intel. He made lots of good points as to why anyone would pay thousands of dollars to train someone who only works such a few times out of the year.This is frusterating, because I was under the impression that I was going to be place dun Counter Intel, and that after a sucessfull completion of my DLAB test, I would be sent to Montery Cali (After Basic and OCS) to learn a language, then be place din Counte Intel (IF I was placed in COunter Intel in the first place...I know once OCS is finished, the Army pretty much places you wherever they want).OK, so heres my question, and I would appreciate an HONEST ANSWER from someone in THE KNOW. DOes someone who is in the ARNG, who has completed Basic and OCS, and tested really high on the DLAB...does that someone have a chance of being selected for COunter Intel? (Also take into consideration that I live very close to the MI/COunter Intel batallion in my state). PLEASE answer hojnestly and quickly :-)-Scott Re: ARNG and Counter Intel Posted by Mike Newby on 6/7/2002, 10:57 pm , in reply to "ARNG and Counter Intel" 24.209.152.78 Scott, Just an observation. Not to offend. You have a college education and you just got into an argument with your father over your future? Are you sure the military is the place you want to be? Officers are expected to make decisions that could impact the lives of men in battle. We would really not want you to have to phone home and speak to Dad when the #%$@ hits the fan. Good luck with your quest for the FBI, but you should probably do it without the ARNG's help. Mike Link: http://usaic.hua.army.mil/ Re: ARNG and Counter Intel Posted by Scott on 6/8/2002, 1:50 am , in reply to "Re: ARNG and Counter Intel" 4.33.146.124 Mike, no offense taken, but I would appreciate an answer to my actual quetions ;-)I still live at home, I see my father all the time. I am 20 years old, and my father and I argue all the time....he's a lawyer, its what he does. This does not mean I am not capable of making a decision, nor does it mean ill phone "dad" when I NEED to make a decision...he raised some interesting points, and as my post stated, I wanted to know if there is any validity to it.-Scott Re: ARNG and Counter Intel Posted by DannyBoy on 6/8/2002, 9:02 pm , in reply to "Re: ARNG and Counter Intel" 165.124.28.46 Scott, You've got plenty of time to make up your mind on what to do. You could go Active Army for several years and when your tour is up apply for FBI. There has to be a vacancy for a Lt. at the MI unit close to your home and you have to be recruited for that opening. Remember the Army and/or Guard will send you where it suits them. Why not finish your education and try to get on a police dept. for a few years. I know several FBI agents and most of them were municipal police officers before they were agents, about half of them had military service, none in MI. Realistically the FBI will not hire anyone in their early 20's with no full time work record. And they hire to fill vacancies with individuals with qualifications they are short of at the time. These change constantly. Just some points to ponder, Best regards, Danny Boy. Re: ARNG and Counter Intel Posted by Scott on 6/8/2002, 9:47 pm , in reply to "Re: ARNG and Counter Intel" 66.74.83.194 Danny, thanks for the excellent points. I am only 20, and honestly am not CERTAIN what I want to do with the rest of my life. FBI has always been a kinda DREAM JOB. I think I will join the guard so I can finish college, and maybe if I like the MIlitary, go Active. I think thats allowed, isn't it?They do have a Lt. spot open in the MI UNit near my house, and I know when im done with OCS I will ultimatly be placed wherever they need me...I'll just keep my fingers crossed. I am VERY excited about taking charge of my life and joining into the military. My Grandfather was a Merrils Marauder, and while his view of the Army is somehwat Jaded (Hes very proud of what he did, but im his grand-son, and he doesnt want me seeing what he saw...I can understand), I am proud to follow the tradition :-)-Scott Re: ARNG and Counter Intel Posted by kristine on 6/11/2002, 2:45 pm , in reply to "Re: ARNG and Counter Intel" 63.172.137.119 yes u can go active from the guard after 6months following ur training. that is what i am doing i am using the guard to pay for college and then i am going to go active. instead of ocs for me i am going to do rotc and contract that way they will pay for my room and board and stuff like that ill keep my fingers crossed for u too i hope that the fbi thing works out. i used to want to be in the fbi or cia but i dont know now LOL i luv the military a bunch and i want to really be a DI now LOL relaxin jackson?? Posted by Lisa on 6/8/2002, 9:51 am 152.163.197.76 my boyfriend is leaving on the first of july for fort jackson. and ive heard his recruiter call it relaxin jackson. does it really live up to that name? if so what is so different there than any other place? thank you for your time! Re: relaxin jackson?? Posted by Lisa on 6/11/2002, 11:35 pm , in reply to "Re: relaxin jackson??" 64.12.105.162 Im sure it is pretty difficult, but i was told that the drill sergeants arent as hard on them at fort jackson and they make it fun at the same time. i dont know i guess ill have to wait for the first letter from my boyfriend. he had pt at the base located close to our home yesterday to get him ready for basic and it about killed him. it was all of the same stuff that they will be doing in basic. so good luck to him and to you! |
