For the final two weeks you will be separated into your specific tracks. For me that was the 70B track. This track is mainly made up of 70B reservist with just a few active duty mixed in.
The first week you go through MDMP (military decision making process). You will go through an entire week creating a mock war planning exercise. The week culminates in giving a presentation to the LTC of your plan.
The second week is the final week of BOLC. This week you will enjoy a trip back to Camp Bullis for one day. You will go back through the convoy simulator (1/2 day), the other half is going over inventory and maintenance.
The rest of the week is geared towards miscellaneous classes.
That just about does it. Once you are finished with the track you are officially a 70B. Congrats!
Monday, July 4, 2011
Sunday, May 15, 2011
End of Week 8: FTX Complete
We finally wrapped up the FTX and had to say goodbye to Camp Bullis. Everybody was so sad to leave :-)
Here is a wrap up of our last week at Bullis.
Monday
I found out I am the PSG for the week for my platoon. If you are given this role it is all about accountability of your people. Know where they are and you are fine. We had PT in the morning and then began role II simulations. We all had a specific job inside of role II. I was given the job as XO. Avoid being a litter bearer. It is hot and you don't get much of a break. Being a casualty is pretty nice. You get to be carried and kept inside AC tents.
Tuesday
We had PT in the morning and then began role III simulations. It was pretty neat to see a cache setup. I was given the job of a lab tech since we didn't have one. After the simulation, you had to put up a tent outside. This was a real waste of time. It was just a time killer for the cadre.
Wednesday
No PT in the morning. We did role I simulations. You go out in two groups. One for the MAS (Main Aid Station) and one for the FAS (Forward Aid Station) and setup your BAS (Battalion Aid Station). Here is where you want to be a casualty. If you are, you get a chance to fly on a Blackhawk. I was a casualty, but unfortunately I was only a priority and not urgent. That meant I was a ground transfer. I was so close to riding on the bird. The ones that went said it was really cool.
After the exercise we had night land nav. A lot of people failed this exercise. You have to get 3 out of 4 points. My team got 3 points with 1 1/2 hours left and just headed back to the FOB. No point getting 4 since 3 is a GO (unless you are high speed and don't care about sleep). Plus you get to go to bed early. If you stay out the entire time you are only getting about 2 hours of sleep before you have to get up for Thursday. It was really humid that night. I never had my ACU's so soaked in sweat.
Thursday
Final day at Camp Bullis! After getting 2 to 3 hours of sleep, if you failed day land nav you had to retake it this morning. The rest just cleaned up the FOB. The buses were going to pick us up at 1200, but a big thunderstorm came around 1000. This forced all land nav people to come back to the FOB. This allowed us to leave early and head back to FSH at 1100.
Back at FSH you turn in your M16. Everybody was excited to turn this in. Then we got dropped off back at our hotel on FSH.
Friday
We started the day with a ASU inspection. After the inspection you were in your classrooms signing the AER (academic evaluation report). Then we had a AAR of the entire course in the afternoon at 1400. After the AAR we had graduation rehearsal. Graduation will be in our ACU, instead of our ASU's. The LTC said this was because of the heat in San Antonio. For example, we were outside for just 1 hour for graduation rehearsal and we had 3 people fall out as heat casualties. Remember hydrate all of the time and don't lock your knees at the position of attention.
Next week we have graduation on Monday and CIF turn in. We also meet with our track advisors. Then on Tuesday we finally get to start the 70B track. Less than 2 weeks left.
Here is a wrap up of our last week at Bullis.
Monday
I found out I am the PSG for the week for my platoon. If you are given this role it is all about accountability of your people. Know where they are and you are fine. We had PT in the morning and then began role II simulations. We all had a specific job inside of role II. I was given the job as XO. Avoid being a litter bearer. It is hot and you don't get much of a break. Being a casualty is pretty nice. You get to be carried and kept inside AC tents.
Tuesday
We had PT in the morning and then began role III simulations. It was pretty neat to see a cache setup. I was given the job of a lab tech since we didn't have one. After the simulation, you had to put up a tent outside. This was a real waste of time. It was just a time killer for the cadre.
Wednesday
No PT in the morning. We did role I simulations. You go out in two groups. One for the MAS (Main Aid Station) and one for the FAS (Forward Aid Station) and setup your BAS (Battalion Aid Station). Here is where you want to be a casualty. If you are, you get a chance to fly on a Blackhawk. I was a casualty, but unfortunately I was only a priority and not urgent. That meant I was a ground transfer. I was so close to riding on the bird. The ones that went said it was really cool.
After the exercise we had night land nav. A lot of people failed this exercise. You have to get 3 out of 4 points. My team got 3 points with 1 1/2 hours left and just headed back to the FOB. No point getting 4 since 3 is a GO (unless you are high speed and don't care about sleep). Plus you get to go to bed early. If you stay out the entire time you are only getting about 2 hours of sleep before you have to get up for Thursday. It was really humid that night. I never had my ACU's so soaked in sweat.
Thursday
Final day at Camp Bullis! After getting 2 to 3 hours of sleep, if you failed day land nav you had to retake it this morning. The rest just cleaned up the FOB. The buses were going to pick us up at 1200, but a big thunderstorm came around 1000. This forced all land nav people to come back to the FOB. This allowed us to leave early and head back to FSH at 1100.
Back at FSH you turn in your M16. Everybody was excited to turn this in. Then we got dropped off back at our hotel on FSH.
Friday
We started the day with a ASU inspection. After the inspection you were in your classrooms signing the AER (academic evaluation report). Then we had a AAR of the entire course in the afternoon at 1400. After the AAR we had graduation rehearsal. Graduation will be in our ACU, instead of our ASU's. The LTC said this was because of the heat in San Antonio. For example, we were outside for just 1 hour for graduation rehearsal and we had 3 people fall out as heat casualties. Remember hydrate all of the time and don't lock your knees at the position of attention.
Next week we have graduation on Monday and CIF turn in. We also meet with our track advisors. Then on Tuesday we finally get to start the 70B track. Less than 2 weeks left.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
End of Week 7: FTX WLT Testing, Gas Chamber, Land Nav, Convoy Training
We are nearing the end of Camp Bullis. We finished our second week in the field. We only have 4 more field days remaining before graduation. This week we restarted PT and combatives. This was every morning Tuesday-Friday 0600-0700 (PT); 0600-0800 (Combatives). This week was much cooler than last week. Highs in the upper 70's and lower 80's. Just a great week to be camping :-).
Monday we went to the M9 range. This was a cool day with highs only getting into the upper 50's. You get to attempt to fake qualify with the M9. I say fake qualify, because even when you qualify nobody writes your name down so you know this didn't count for anything.
Tuesday we had WLT testing. We did pretty good with most of my squad getting first time go's on everything. This took the entire day. Again in Army fashion, it was 2 hours of testing and 8 hours of sitting and waiting.
Wednesday was the dreaded gas chamber. This went really quick. You quickly line up in your platoon and go through the chamber. They make you say your name, rank, serial number, hometown. I didn't inhale any of the gas, but my eyes burned pretty good. It took about 10 minutes for them to stop burning. But once it stopped, your eyes are back to normal. Overall it really isn't that bad. After the gas you go through a few classes on CBRNE.
Thursday was day land nav. You have 3 hours to find 3 out of 4 points to get a go. If you don't at least 3 points or you fail to get back to the FOB in 3 hours, you have to retest next Thursday. You will go out in groups of 2. My team did well. We found all 4 points and returned to the FOB with an hour to spare. Some teams weren't so lucky. There were many failures, including some teams which didn't even get 1 point. If you fail you have to go back out with failures next week (you can't get someone who passed to go back out with you). Land nav is really easy. Just pay attention when they show you how to plot your points. Next week we will be doing the night land nav test. After the test we had 3 hours of outdoor classes to tell us about the simulations we will be doing next week.
Friday was convoy day. You went on a convoy and had to go through scenarios with IED's and small arms fire. After the convoy we went to the convoy simulator. Basically this is a big video game. You have a driver, truck commander, a couple of passengers and the gunner. I got to be the gunner and man the 50 cal. That was pretty fun. After the simulator you got sent to the heat trainer. This simulates roll overs. You get into a hummer and you will be flipped a few times and have to get out upside down. A couple of key points. Don't drop your weapon and don't grab any equipment (ie fake ammo can) flying around in the heat trainer. If you do they will keep on flipping your entire team.
Week 2 is complete. Next week we will be doing Role I, II, III simulations, plus night land nav. Then on Friday we will be back at FSH for graduation rehearsal.
Monday we went to the M9 range. This was a cool day with highs only getting into the upper 50's. You get to attempt to fake qualify with the M9. I say fake qualify, because even when you qualify nobody writes your name down so you know this didn't count for anything.
Tuesday we had WLT testing. We did pretty good with most of my squad getting first time go's on everything. This took the entire day. Again in Army fashion, it was 2 hours of testing and 8 hours of sitting and waiting.
Wednesday was the dreaded gas chamber. This went really quick. You quickly line up in your platoon and go through the chamber. They make you say your name, rank, serial number, hometown. I didn't inhale any of the gas, but my eyes burned pretty good. It took about 10 minutes for them to stop burning. But once it stopped, your eyes are back to normal. Overall it really isn't that bad. After the gas you go through a few classes on CBRNE.
Thursday was day land nav. You have 3 hours to find 3 out of 4 points to get a go. If you don't at least 3 points or you fail to get back to the FOB in 3 hours, you have to retest next Thursday. You will go out in groups of 2. My team did well. We found all 4 points and returned to the FOB with an hour to spare. Some teams weren't so lucky. There were many failures, including some teams which didn't even get 1 point. If you fail you have to go back out with failures next week (you can't get someone who passed to go back out with you). Land nav is really easy. Just pay attention when they show you how to plot your points. Next week we will be doing the night land nav test. After the test we had 3 hours of outdoor classes to tell us about the simulations we will be doing next week.
Friday was convoy day. You went on a convoy and had to go through scenarios with IED's and small arms fire. After the convoy we went to the convoy simulator. Basically this is a big video game. You have a driver, truck commander, a couple of passengers and the gunner. I got to be the gunner and man the 50 cal. That was pretty fun. After the simulator you got sent to the heat trainer. This simulates roll overs. You get into a hummer and you will be flipped a few times and have to get out upside down. A couple of key points. Don't drop your weapon and don't grab any equipment (ie fake ammo can) flying around in the heat trainer. If you do they will keep on flipping your entire team.
Week 2 is complete. Next week we will be doing Role I, II, III simulations, plus night land nav. Then on Friday we will be back at FSH for graduation rehearsal.
End of Week 6: FTX M16 and WLT Training
We just finished up our second week in the field at Camp Bullis. Here is an overview over the past couple weeks.
Week 6 (No PT this week)
Monday was the day to pick up our M16, blank firing adapter and 3 point sling. The sling was a real pain to put together. Most of the time I just hang it on my molly vest by a clip. It took about 2 hours to get our weapons while we enjoyed standing on black pavement in 100 degree heat. Once we all got our weapons we marched over to our hotel. Once there we integrated with the short course personnel. Our platoon gained about 20 new soldiers. We then boarded a hot bus and began our FTX journey to Camp Bullis. Once we got to Bullis we unloaded and already found out we had a heat casualty on the bus who was sent back to BAMC (hospital). Remember you must drink water here often. We were assigned our tents separated by males and females. You get to sleep on a small cot, but the tents do have AC and heat. The AC came in real handy. We got to enjoy our first MRE's for dinner. Typically you get a hot breakfast and dinner, while lunch is always MRE's.
We spent Tuesday zeroing the M16. This takes 10 minutes, but in Army fashion you want 10 hours for those 10 minutes.
Wednesday we focused on land nav. You first were taught how to gauge your pace count (day only). Then you went with the cadre and practice finding a few points.
Thursday was WLT training. These tasks are M16 and M9 disassemble, reassemble, safety and functions check. Radio operation disassemble, reassemble and check. 9 line MEDIVAC request. We rotated stations practicing each of these skills. You have 4 minutes for the M16, 2 minutes for the M9. The radio and 9 line is 5 minutes. You will either get a go/no-go on each event when tested next week.
Friday we were told we were going to qualify with the M16. This isn't really true. You do go to the qualifying range, but no body even ties a score to a name. So you don't really qualify. It is more of a practice. Once done here we turned in our weapons and headed back to the hotel at FSH
Key Notes:
Bring Baby Wipes
You get showers once a week (rotated by platoons)
Bring zip lock bags for your clothes
Don't bring everything on the packing list
Bring a pillow from your hotel
Don't ever leave your M16. You take it everywhere including the latrines.
Bring a camera to take pictures.
Week 6 (No PT this week)
Monday was the day to pick up our M16, blank firing adapter and 3 point sling. The sling was a real pain to put together. Most of the time I just hang it on my molly vest by a clip. It took about 2 hours to get our weapons while we enjoyed standing on black pavement in 100 degree heat. Once we all got our weapons we marched over to our hotel. Once there we integrated with the short course personnel. Our platoon gained about 20 new soldiers. We then boarded a hot bus and began our FTX journey to Camp Bullis. Once we got to Bullis we unloaded and already found out we had a heat casualty on the bus who was sent back to BAMC (hospital). Remember you must drink water here often. We were assigned our tents separated by males and females. You get to sleep on a small cot, but the tents do have AC and heat. The AC came in real handy. We got to enjoy our first MRE's for dinner. Typically you get a hot breakfast and dinner, while lunch is always MRE's.
We spent Tuesday zeroing the M16. This takes 10 minutes, but in Army fashion you want 10 hours for those 10 minutes.
Wednesday we focused on land nav. You first were taught how to gauge your pace count (day only). Then you went with the cadre and practice finding a few points.
Thursday was WLT training. These tasks are M16 and M9 disassemble, reassemble, safety and functions check. Radio operation disassemble, reassemble and check. 9 line MEDIVAC request. We rotated stations practicing each of these skills. You have 4 minutes for the M16, 2 minutes for the M9. The radio and 9 line is 5 minutes. You will either get a go/no-go on each event when tested next week.
Friday we were told we were going to qualify with the M16. This isn't really true. You do go to the qualifying range, but no body even ties a score to a name. So you don't really qualify. It is more of a practice. Once done here we turned in our weapons and headed back to the hotel at FSH
Key Notes:
Bring Baby Wipes
You get showers once a week (rotated by platoons)
Bring zip lock bags for your clothes
Don't bring everything on the packing list
Bring a pillow from your hotel
Don't ever leave your M16. You take it everywhere including the latrines.
Bring a camera to take pictures.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
End of Week 5: CBRNE Exam, Preparing for FTX, APFT
Week 5 is complete.
Monday started out with PT at 0520. We did a 3 mile run at a 9 min mile pace (in the 16-18 minute ability group). After PT was classes. I went volunteered at did the 1st class presentation. It was nice to get it out of the way. For the presentation you can pick any military subject and you have to present on it for 7 to 10 minutes using PowerPoint.
Tuesday again started out with PT at 0520. This was a light day of PT. It included a mile run and push-ups and sit-ups. Not much to discuss but more classes.
Wednesday started off with PT at 0520. We did another 3 mile run. After classes we went to the electronic firing range. This was pretty cool. It simulates shooting just like at the real range. After getting the hang of it I was able to hit 36 out of 40 for expert.
No PT on Thursday due to the APFT on Friday. Today was just more classes and class presentations.
Friday we had the APFT at 0450. Good news is I passed! I am glad that is over with. Next up was the CBRNE exam. This is really easy. It is open book and open notes (the only test that is this way). We won't know the results until Monday but I am sure I passed (70% or greater is passing). After lunch we had a final exam review (Monday is our final exam). The review doesn't really help much. Just make sure you read and remember the ELO's on every presentation and you will be fine. In the afternoon we went to AMEDD Regimental night. This is basically a chance for you to meet people in your AOC and at bases you will be stationed at. For reservist/guard this is a real waste of time. For active duty it made a little more sense. After the event we headed out for the weekend.
Monday started out with PT at 0520. We did a 3 mile run at a 9 min mile pace (in the 16-18 minute ability group). After PT was classes. I went volunteered at did the 1st class presentation. It was nice to get it out of the way. For the presentation you can pick any military subject and you have to present on it for 7 to 10 minutes using PowerPoint.
Tuesday again started out with PT at 0520. This was a light day of PT. It included a mile run and push-ups and sit-ups. Not much to discuss but more classes.
Wednesday started off with PT at 0520. We did another 3 mile run. After classes we went to the electronic firing range. This was pretty cool. It simulates shooting just like at the real range. After getting the hang of it I was able to hit 36 out of 40 for expert.
No PT on Thursday due to the APFT on Friday. Today was just more classes and class presentations.
Friday we had the APFT at 0450. Good news is I passed! I am glad that is over with. Next up was the CBRNE exam. This is really easy. It is open book and open notes (the only test that is this way). We won't know the results until Monday but I am sure I passed (70% or greater is passing). After lunch we had a final exam review (Monday is our final exam). The review doesn't really help much. Just make sure you read and remember the ELO's on every presentation and you will be fine. In the afternoon we went to AMEDD Regimental night. This is basically a chance for you to meet people in your AOC and at bases you will be stationed at. For reservist/guard this is a real waste of time. For active duty it made a little more sense. After the event we headed out for the weekend.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
End of Week 4: Mid-Terms
Week 4 is in the books.
Monday we had morning PT at 0520. This day consisted of classes all day. I can't wait for the FTX to get a change of pace.
Tuesday there was no PT for direct commissions since they had a mini SRP (blood draw and immunizations). We got there at 0650. The network was down (hurry up and wait) so we didn't finish this until 1230. We had a finance meeting in the afternoon (basically felt like a sales pitch for this financial advisor) and a mid-term review which was worthless.
Wednesday we had no PT. We had our land navigation class in the morning and were released at 1050 (other platoons weren't so lucky). This was nice because it gave our platoon a bunch of time to study for the mid-term. A doctor in our platoon put together a really good study guide for our platoon. It saved all of us a bunch of time and let us begin the memorization game earlier.
Thursday started with PT at 0520. We ran for 3 miles and then did seven minutes of push-ups/sit-ups without any breaks. After PT we had our mid-term exams. No one in our platoon failed, but there were several failures from other platoons. You have to get at least 70% on the exam to pass. If you fail, you will have one more retest at the end of BOLC. You have to pass the test to graduate. Once the exams were over, it was back to death by PowerPoint. We finished up the day at about 1800.
Friday was basically a day off due to the battle of the flowers. It was a perfect day for a little R&R.
This weekend a bunch of us are going to Big Lou's to enjoy a 42" pizza (as featured on man vs food). Next week includes last week of classes (YES!!!), CBRNE exam, record APFT and final exam review.
Monday we had morning PT at 0520. This day consisted of classes all day. I can't wait for the FTX to get a change of pace.
Tuesday there was no PT for direct commissions since they had a mini SRP (blood draw and immunizations). We got there at 0650. The network was down (hurry up and wait) so we didn't finish this until 1230. We had a finance meeting in the afternoon (basically felt like a sales pitch for this financial advisor) and a mid-term review which was worthless.
Wednesday we had no PT. We had our land navigation class in the morning and were released at 1050 (other platoons weren't so lucky). This was nice because it gave our platoon a bunch of time to study for the mid-term. A doctor in our platoon put together a really good study guide for our platoon. It saved all of us a bunch of time and let us begin the memorization game earlier.
Thursday started with PT at 0520. We ran for 3 miles and then did seven minutes of push-ups/sit-ups without any breaks. After PT we had our mid-term exams. No one in our platoon failed, but there were several failures from other platoons. You have to get at least 70% on the exam to pass. If you fail, you will have one more retest at the end of BOLC. You have to pass the test to graduate. Once the exams were over, it was back to death by PowerPoint. We finished up the day at about 1800.
Friday was basically a day off due to the battle of the flowers. It was a perfect day for a little R&R.
This weekend a bunch of us are going to Big Lou's to enjoy a 42" pizza (as featured on man vs food). Next week includes last week of classes (YES!!!), CBRNE exam, record APFT and final exam review.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
End of Week 3: Class Time
Been busy this week so it has been hard to find a time to blog.
This week continued PT and class time. We had a lighter week of PT due to the record APFT on Friday. The typical PT days were 0520 to 1700. The other days are 0650 to 1700. When you hear 0650 everybody is like "We get to sleep in!", sad huh.
Monday was JAG all day. Learning the basic of UCMJ. The speaker was a LTC who was the advisor to the General. He did a good job keeping a boring subject interesting.
Tuesday we broke into our platoons and began classes just with your platoons. We got to meet several of our civilian instructors (the same ones who will be with us at Camp Bullis in a couple weeks). It was more PowerPoints, but the teaching was better so it wasn't terrible. This continued all week.
On Friday was the record APFT. The best part was that we had 2 hours of downtime after the test. It was nice to relax for once. We finished up the week with more class time.
This weekend will consist of studying for the mid-term exam next week and preparing a 10 to 20 minute class presentation. Then back at on Monday at 0420 for a blood draw.
This week continued PT and class time. We had a lighter week of PT due to the record APFT on Friday. The typical PT days were 0520 to 1700. The other days are 0650 to 1700. When you hear 0650 everybody is like "We get to sleep in!", sad huh.
Monday was JAG all day. Learning the basic of UCMJ. The speaker was a LTC who was the advisor to the General. He did a good job keeping a boring subject interesting.
Tuesday we broke into our platoons and began classes just with your platoons. We got to meet several of our civilian instructors (the same ones who will be with us at Camp Bullis in a couple weeks). It was more PowerPoints, but the teaching was better so it wasn't terrible. This continued all week.
On Friday was the record APFT. The best part was that we had 2 hours of downtime after the test. It was nice to relax for once. We finished up the week with more class time.
This weekend will consist of studying for the mid-term exam next week and preparing a 10 to 20 minute class presentation. Then back at on Monday at 0420 for a blood draw.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
End of Week 2: CBRNE Training
Week 2 is in the books. We had no PT this morning. About 1/3 of us had to go to dental at 0550, while the rest had to be at Blesse auditorium at 0650.
I had to go to dental. It was painless for me since I already had a dental exam by the Army before I got there. All they had to do was enter in my CAC and I was done. I then headed back to the Blesse right before the start of CBRNE training.
The slides started at 0700 and didn't end until 1500 with only a 1 hour break in between. To say this is dry is an understatement. Probably 1/3 of the class was standing up at the back of the room (which is allowed) towards the end. Some were doing pushups, while others doing situps (again which is allowed). We were allowed to have computers to type notes.
After we finished with the training, we then had our student 1SG talk to us. It seems as though several squad leaders weren't telling the truth about people being present and people were playing games on their laptops. Needless to say the Cadre wasn't pleased. You would think people would know better. After a quick chewing out, we then had our safety brief by the CO.
Now we are off for the weekend. Time to sleep and rest up for Monday.
I had to go to dental. It was painless for me since I already had a dental exam by the Army before I got there. All they had to do was enter in my CAC and I was done. I then headed back to the Blesse right before the start of CBRNE training.
The slides started at 0700 and didn't end until 1500 with only a 1 hour break in between. To say this is dry is an understatement. Probably 1/3 of the class was standing up at the back of the room (which is allowed) towards the end. Some were doing pushups, while others doing situps (again which is allowed). We were allowed to have computers to type notes.
After we finished with the training, we then had our student 1SG talk to us. It seems as though several squad leaders weren't telling the truth about people being present and people were playing games on their laptops. Needless to say the Cadre wasn't pleased. You would think people would know better. After a quick chewing out, we then had our safety brief by the CO.
Now we are off for the weekend. Time to sleep and rest up for Monday.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Week 2: Day 4: Military History, Leadership & Bugs
We started the morning at 0520 with PT formation. After the formation our individual platoons did a quick warm-up. Once the warm-up was completed we did a 30 minute formation run.
After the run we had a short break to get showers and get to class. That meant no breakfast. Make sure you always have some sort of snack in case you don't have time for a meal.
The classes started with military history. This class was short so we ended up having a couple of hours to burn. Before lunch we had an excellent speaker who talked about leadership and integrity. He did an awesome job. Afterwards, if you wanted to eat lunch you had to go double time to walk there, eat and get back in 20 minutes.
After lunch we had a class on insects and what to expect in the field. There was some very graphic pictures.
We also found out if you are late to any formation or class you will perform a work detail. To many people are still showing up late.
Leadership positions will be rotating shortly. To be in a leadership program you have to have passed your DAPFT.
Tomorrow will entail CBRNE training, plus a dental visit.
After the run we had a short break to get showers and get to class. That meant no breakfast. Make sure you always have some sort of snack in case you don't have time for a meal.
The classes started with military history. This class was short so we ended up having a couple of hours to burn. Before lunch we had an excellent speaker who talked about leadership and integrity. He did an awesome job. Afterwards, if you wanted to eat lunch you had to go double time to walk there, eat and get back in 20 minutes.
After lunch we had a class on insects and what to expect in the field. There was some very graphic pictures.
We also found out if you are late to any formation or class you will perform a work detail. To many people are still showing up late.
Leadership positions will be rotating shortly. To be in a leadership program you have to have passed your DAPFT.
Tomorrow will entail CBRNE training, plus a dental visit.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Week 2: Day 3: Real Classes Begin
This morning started out with PT formation at 5:20. Again more people can't seem to come to formation on time. You would think they would get it by now.
Some of us went to optometry, while the others had 1 hour of PT. At optometry it went real quick. Just a quick eye exam and everything was done. Very efficiently run.
After the eye exam, we headed over to the brief by a LTC leading AMEDD school. There were a couple more briefs then lunch. After lunch we started our first real classes. It was nice to move into our real classes. They focused on communication, writing and briefs. There will be a 15 page paper due at the course to go along with several exams. You must score 70% on every exam to pass the class.
We also found out the leadership will be changing at the end of this week or next. This means I will be moved up to squad leader when the change occurs.
After classes it was time for chow, then a workout since I didn't do PT in them morning. Tomorrow is another full day of classes.
Some of us went to optometry, while the others had 1 hour of PT. At optometry it went real quick. Just a quick eye exam and everything was done. Very efficiently run.
After the eye exam, we headed over to the brief by a LTC leading AMEDD school. There were a couple more briefs then lunch. After lunch we started our first real classes. It was nice to move into our real classes. They focused on communication, writing and briefs. There will be a 15 page paper due at the course to go along with several exams. You must score 70% on every exam to pass the class.
We also found out the leadership will be changing at the end of this week or next. This means I will be moved up to squad leader when the change occurs.
After classes it was time for chow, then a workout since I didn't do PT in them morning. Tomorrow is another full day of classes.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Week 2: Day 2: Death by PowerPoint
Today started at 0520 with PT formation. We had 1 hour of PT, then began death by PowerPoint. It was nothing but PowerPoints all day long. Not much else to talk about today. Tomorrow some of us have to go to optometry, while the rest have to do PT. Plus we finally get to start classes tomorrow. Excited about that.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Week 2: Day 1 CIF Issue
The morning started at 0530 with PT. It was cool this morning with the temperature at 54 degrees and windy. We had to wear our summer IPFU so it was chilly. The PT started with formations and then stretching. Then the students who failed the APFT run/situp had to go with the company 1SG and do a special PT. The rest of us had to do PT stations (situps, flutter kicks, push-ups, wide arm pu and burpees). This lasted for about 35 minutes.
After PT it was time for chow. Breakfast is usually decent at the DFAC. After breakfast we had to report to the CIF for equipment. This process is pretty simple. You go in alphabetical order, 2 at a time. There are several stations. Once done you go out and check your equipment. Make sure nothing is broken or written on, otherwise you are the proud new owner of that equipment. Which means you have to pay to replace it.
After CIF, we had a couple hours off and then had lunch. After lunch we had a briefing on sexual assault. Once that was completed, we were suppose to have the EO/POSH briefing, but that instructor never showed up. That meant we got to watch a movie for a bit over an hour. After the movie we had the CO give a ODP on officer promotions and career paths.
After the briefings the day was done and it was chow time again for dinner.
Tomorrow starts with PT again at 0530 for 1 hour for most, while some have dental. Time to head to bed and get ready for another day at FSH.
After PT it was time for chow. Breakfast is usually decent at the DFAC. After breakfast we had to report to the CIF for equipment. This process is pretty simple. You go in alphabetical order, 2 at a time. There are several stations. Once done you go out and check your equipment. Make sure nothing is broken or written on, otherwise you are the proud new owner of that equipment. Which means you have to pay to replace it.
After CIF, we had a couple hours off and then had lunch. After lunch we had a briefing on sexual assault. Once that was completed, we were suppose to have the EO/POSH briefing, but that instructor never showed up. That meant we got to watch a movie for a bit over an hour. After the movie we had the CO give a ODP on officer promotions and career paths.
After the briefings the day was done and it was chow time again for dinner.
Tomorrow starts with PT again at 0530 for 1 hour for most, while some have dental. Time to head to bed and get ready for another day at FSH.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
End of Week 1: PowerPoint and DAPFT
Week 1 is in the books. On Thursday we started at 0430 and ended at 1900. Not much to talk about this day. Just a bunch of PowerPoint presentations (tip if you get tired you can go to the back and stand, just don't fall asleep in class!) and about 2 hours of D&C (Drill & Ceremony). They broke off the direct commissions (DC) from the prior service and ROTC. The prior service and ROTC helped the DC's understand the basics of marching and formations. This took about 2 hours. We also did our first formation march to chow for lunch. The first couple of days you will have about 20 minutes top for breakfast and lunch. Eat quick. It should get better though.
On Friday was our DAPFT. All soldiers will take this test. Even if you pass it, you have to take a record APFT on April 8. If you fail the record APFT, you will have one more chance to pass it towards the end of the course. If you are active duty and you fail it, you get held over until you pass it. If you were suppose to go overseas, forget about it now. Your orders will change to a CONUS location. If you are a reservist/guard and don't pass it, you still get sent home to your unit. You will be marked as failing to complete the course (this is a change from the past). You will not be deployable until you pass the APFT at your home unit. Once you pass it there, you can then apply for constructive credit for BOLC through your S1. The point being it is better to pass it at BOLC, then screwing around with the other stuff later.
After the DAPFT we had more presentations. We also went through finance. Reservist/Guard break off from active duty for this. This will start the process for you to get paid. The rest of the day was just boring PowerPoint presentations. Around 1400 they released the list of the DAPFT scores. You can't see anyones name, but it gives you an idea how the class did. About 50% passed the diagnostic. So a lot of people have work to do. We will have our first PT session on Monday.
We also found out people without cars will be transferred to the on base hotel. The ones with cars will stay for now. We are all supposed to move to the post, but you know how that goes. I would like to move back on post so I can take a shower after PT. You aren't given much time in between PT and your next class (you have to be ACU's for the classes).
Several people have also begun the process of getting their ASU together. Major tip, get that stuff ready BEFORE you come to BOLC. Just makes your life easier and one less thing to do.
Today each PSG (platoon SGT) assigned an S1. They will take care of all of the administrative paperwork.
We are now off for the weekend. Time to sleep and relax and wait for week 2 to begin. We start Monday at 0530 with PT.
On Friday was our DAPFT. All soldiers will take this test. Even if you pass it, you have to take a record APFT on April 8. If you fail the record APFT, you will have one more chance to pass it towards the end of the course. If you are active duty and you fail it, you get held over until you pass it. If you were suppose to go overseas, forget about it now. Your orders will change to a CONUS location. If you are a reservist/guard and don't pass it, you still get sent home to your unit. You will be marked as failing to complete the course (this is a change from the past). You will not be deployable until you pass the APFT at your home unit. Once you pass it there, you can then apply for constructive credit for BOLC through your S1. The point being it is better to pass it at BOLC, then screwing around with the other stuff later.
After the DAPFT we had more presentations. We also went through finance. Reservist/Guard break off from active duty for this. This will start the process for you to get paid. The rest of the day was just boring PowerPoint presentations. Around 1400 they released the list of the DAPFT scores. You can't see anyones name, but it gives you an idea how the class did. About 50% passed the diagnostic. So a lot of people have work to do. We will have our first PT session on Monday.
We also found out people without cars will be transferred to the on base hotel. The ones with cars will stay for now. We are all supposed to move to the post, but you know how that goes. I would like to move back on post so I can take a shower after PT. You aren't given much time in between PT and your next class (you have to be ACU's for the classes).
Several people have also begun the process of getting their ASU together. Major tip, get that stuff ready BEFORE you come to BOLC. Just makes your life easier and one less thing to do.
Today each PSG (platoon SGT) assigned an S1. They will take care of all of the administrative paperwork.
We are now off for the weekend. Time to sleep and relax and wait for week 2 to begin. We start Monday at 0530 with PT.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Day 1: In Processing
By Nick McDuffie. Day 1 of BOLC has arrived. Started with heading to Ft Sam Houston from my hotel just outside of San Antonio. I first pulled into the lodging building. Not many people were in their yet. You just give them a copy of your orders. They will give you a couple sheets of paper to give to the hotel to check-in. I found out I will be staying at the Holiday Inn.
Next I had to go to the Willis building. This was pretty close to the lodging building. Be warned about parking. There are a bunch of places you CANNOT park. I ended up parking near the PT field about 400 yards from the building. You can also park at the AMEDD Museum.
Once you walk into the building, you stood in line to fill out your PT Card. When you completed that, you moved onto more stations. They were the height/weight (no problems there), TA 50 helmet sizing and some small items (bug spray, foot powder, sun block) and the final station was a quick check over your information in their system. Here they will assign you to a platoon. I am in platoon 4.
You will also be handed a booklet here. It contains your meal card. You get meals 5 days a week at the DFAC. The DFAC is close to the Willis building.
After checking in, I went over to the hotel. It was a straight shot there. About 15 minutes from post. The hotel is nice and includes free wi-fi.
When I arrived at the hotel I met my roommate Dale. He is a 72D (environmental science). He has been in the military for 18 years so he should be a good person to lean on.
Tomorrow starts early. We have to report at 0430. The first day everybody has to ride the bus, even if you have a POV. So that means being down in the lobby at 0350.
The day after is the APFT test. This one is a diagnostic only.
Until tomorrow.
Next I had to go to the Willis building. This was pretty close to the lodging building. Be warned about parking. There are a bunch of places you CANNOT park. I ended up parking near the PT field about 400 yards from the building. You can also park at the AMEDD Museum.
Once you walk into the building, you stood in line to fill out your PT Card. When you completed that, you moved onto more stations. They were the height/weight (no problems there), TA 50 helmet sizing and some small items (bug spray, foot powder, sun block) and the final station was a quick check over your information in their system. Here they will assign you to a platoon. I am in platoon 4.
You will also be handed a booklet here. It contains your meal card. You get meals 5 days a week at the DFAC. The DFAC is close to the Willis building.
After checking in, I went over to the hotel. It was a straight shot there. About 15 minutes from post. The hotel is nice and includes free wi-fi.
When I arrived at the hotel I met my roommate Dale. He is a 72D (environmental science). He has been in the military for 18 years so he should be a good person to lean on.
Tomorrow starts early. We have to report at 0430. The first day everybody has to ride the bus, even if you have a POV. So that means being down in the lobby at 0350.
The day after is the APFT test. This one is a diagnostic only.
Until tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Welcome to San Antonio!
I have made it to San Antonio. I am staying at a hotel just outside the downtown city limits. It is March and it is already warm and humid. I guess this is probably the best weather we will get.
Tomorrow I will be going through in-processing. To check in you can wear civilian clothes, but they recommend the PT uniform (for height/weight) since you have to change into it anyways to in-process.
I had my PT uniform packed way to deep in my luggage. What a pain to pull out, lol.
I am ready for tomorrow to come so I can get this adventure started. I will probably leave the hotel around 8:30am. This way I can report to lodging and then start the BOLC in-processing. You must bring 1 copy of your orders, your ID card/CAC card or Driver's License and a pen.
The last email we received from BOLC said most of us would be staying in a hotel off post. I guess we will see what happens with that.
We were also told within the first 72 hours their will be a PT test. Situps, push-ups no problem. Run, uggh. Been working my butt off to increase my speed. I can do long slow distance running. The speed running is what gets me. Really hope the interval running paid off!!!
There are also many changes for BOLC being implemented in our class. They told us to exercise patience due to those changes.
Still have to figure what I am going to do for dinner.
Tomorrow I will be going through in-processing. To check in you can wear civilian clothes, but they recommend the PT uniform (for height/weight) since you have to change into it anyways to in-process.
I had my PT uniform packed way to deep in my luggage. What a pain to pull out, lol.
I am ready for tomorrow to come so I can get this adventure started. I will probably leave the hotel around 8:30am. This way I can report to lodging and then start the BOLC in-processing. You must bring 1 copy of your orders, your ID card/CAC card or Driver's License and a pen.
The last email we received from BOLC said most of us would be staying in a hotel off post. I guess we will see what happens with that.
We were also told within the first 72 hours their will be a PT test. Situps, push-ups no problem. Run, uggh. Been working my butt off to increase my speed. I can do long slow distance running. The speed running is what gets me. Really hope the interval running paid off!!!
There are also many changes for BOLC being implemented in our class. They told us to exercise patience due to those changes.
Still have to figure what I am going to do for dinner.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Started My Drive to San Antonio
Said goodbye to the wife and kids early Monday morning and started my drive to San Antonio.
My drive went smoothly. No problems, except for a backup in Memphis (no surprise there). After 10 hours I have stopped in Dallas. The last time I was in Dallas was over 14 years ago when I moved out of Texas. I can tell you the water still taste gross in Texas.
I went for a quick jog on the "treadmill" at the hotel. If you want to call it that. Then headed out for dinner.
The closest place in walking distance was a Mexican eatery called "Alejandros Grill". It was good. I enjoyed mixed fajitas. After eating I went to the gas station and picked up a Dr Pepper for the evening and walked back to the hotel.
I have a few more things to do tonight before I can go to bed. Hopefully tomorrow's drive to San Antonio will be as good as the first day's drive to Dallas.
My drive went smoothly. No problems, except for a backup in Memphis (no surprise there). After 10 hours I have stopped in Dallas. The last time I was in Dallas was over 14 years ago when I moved out of Texas. I can tell you the water still taste gross in Texas.
I went for a quick jog on the "treadmill" at the hotel. If you want to call it that. Then headed out for dinner.
The closest place in walking distance was a Mexican eatery called "Alejandros Grill". It was good. I enjoyed mixed fajitas. After eating I went to the gas station and picked up a Dr Pepper for the evening and walked back to the hotel.
I have a few more things to do tonight before I can go to bed. Hopefully tomorrow's drive to San Antonio will be as good as the first day's drive to Dallas.
Monday, March 7, 2011
New Army PT Test (APRT)
Well there is going to be a new Army PT test coming in October 2011. This new test is now called the APRT. It won't affect me for BOLC.
After reading about it, I like it. You have to be athletic.
Another huge change will affect profiles. The alternate events for the run (swim and bike) have been eliminated. The only valid profile is the walk. The Army finally has decided if you can't walk, you don't need to be in the Army.
They say the scoring should be out by July/August. Just in time for the new October fiscal year.
There will also be a combat fitness test. This test includes wearing all gear and carrying a M16. You will have to sprint, carry ammo cans, go over balance beams, drag 180lb weight and more. I think this one will not be required for the reserves. There is no way they will be able to get any of this equipment and many are just to far away from bases to send an entire unit on a drill day. In the end this will probably be a requirement for active duty soldiers (once a year), but only a requirement for reservist (including AGR) during pre-deployment.
After reading about it, I like it. You have to be athletic.
- 60 Yard Shuttle Run (run 5 yards pick up a block go back to the start, then 10 yd, then 15)
- 1 Minute of push ups
- 1 Minute of rowers (ab workout that is much tougher than situps)
- Standing long jump
- 1.5 mile run
Another huge change will affect profiles. The alternate events for the run (swim and bike) have been eliminated. The only valid profile is the walk. The Army finally has decided if you can't walk, you don't need to be in the Army.
They say the scoring should be out by July/August. Just in time for the new October fiscal year.
There will also be a combat fitness test. This test includes wearing all gear and carrying a M16. You will have to sprint, carry ammo cans, go over balance beams, drag 180lb weight and more. I think this one will not be required for the reserves. There is no way they will be able to get any of this equipment and many are just to far away from bases to send an entire unit on a drill day. In the end this will probably be a requirement for active duty soldiers (once a year), but only a requirement for reservist (including AGR) during pre-deployment.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
New APFT Announced, Called APRT
Just read on the Army's website there will be a new APFT, called APRT.
You can read more about here.
This won't affect me in BOLC, but should be in place by October 2011 army wide for the new fiscal year. It looks pretty good. Of course the scoring is the biggest thing.
It seems like this is similar to the Air Force PT test. 1 minute push ups, 1.5 mile run and the age ranges of under 30, 30-39, etc.
My guess we will find out around August the new official scoring standard.
You can read more about here.
This won't affect me in BOLC, but should be in place by October 2011 army wide for the new fiscal year. It looks pretty good. Of course the scoring is the biggest thing.
It seems like this is similar to the Air Force PT test. 1 minute push ups, 1.5 mile run and the age ranges of under 30, 30-39, etc.
My guess we will find out around August the new official scoring standard.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Run, Run, Run
I continue to run everyday, with an occasional break. I am trying to run the 2 miles in 16 minutes. Right now I keep on getting between 16:40-17:30 for 2 miles. My time currently allows for 17 minutes. I don't want to cut it so close.
Bit more than 1 month until BOLC starts. Time is flying.
Bit more than 1 month until BOLC starts. Time is flying.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Orders Received
I just got orders to head to BOLC on March 23, 2011. I heard from other people in my reserve unit that it will be a blast. I am going to the long course for the Army Reserves since my MOS is 70B, instead of the short course like other AMEDD reserve officers. Looking forward to it.
I have most of my uniform items all ready purchased since I have been drilling since July 2010. Not much to do on that end. Just some odds and ends.
The main thing I need to work on before BOLC is my run for the APFT. I am not a runner by trade, so I have been working hard on this. I already passed the APFT in October during drill, but my run time cut it close. I am running every other day outside currently.
Tip: Make sure for the run portion of the APFT, you are preparing for it by running OUTSIDE! Don't run on a treadmill. This will not simulate the right leg muscle groups. Otherwise you will be really sore and you will be shocked your APFT run time didn't match your treadmill time.
I have most of my uniform items all ready purchased since I have been drilling since July 2010. Not much to do on that end. Just some odds and ends.
The main thing I need to work on before BOLC is my run for the APFT. I am not a runner by trade, so I have been working hard on this. I already passed the APFT in October during drill, but my run time cut it close. I am running every other day outside currently.
Tip: Make sure for the run portion of the APFT, you are preparing for it by running OUTSIDE! Don't run on a treadmill. This will not simulate the right leg muscle groups. Otherwise you will be really sore and you will be shocked your APFT run time didn't match your treadmill time.
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