So this morning we had APFT 3. My scores improved drastically but still need work. 27 push ups which is the same as last time, 60 sit ups which is 10 more, and an 18:24 2 mile, down another 2 minutes. All our remaining PT tests will be graded on the 60% scale instead of 50% now though, so I have even more work to do yet. I need 42 push ups, 53 sit ups, and 15:54 2 mile to pass on the new scale. DS V said as long as we keep improving he'll keep us until the end when we'll be recycled if we don't make it. Looks like I'm staying here for the foreseeable future.
Today, we just hung around at the range while 1st and 2nd platoons were at the range doing some kind of live fire exercise. We'll be doing the same tomorrow, with a night fire exercise using night vision and IR lasers mounted on our rifles as well. The night fire for 1st and 2nd was cancelled due to the thunderstorms rolling in.
This evening, I did some PT during free time, went and ran a mile on the track with some of the guys. Was actually kind of hard, legs were cramping bad due to the 2 mile this morning so I've got some muscle rub on them now.
Nothing else to really write about now except yes, night vision is just as fun to play with as you think it would be, which is probably why they don't let us hang on to them.
Will try and write tomorrow or Wednesday.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Gernades and Lockdown Sept 18-19
So you're probably wondering why this letter is a few days late coming in. The answer is today (Sunday) is the first chance I've gotten to write.
Friday started off bad and just got worse. The 6 mile ruck was brutal and not helped by us going a mile in the wrong direction and having to turn around. Once we arrived at the grenade range we grounded our rucks and after breakfast we jumped right into trainingr after that, and were told we were not allowed to sit at all unless specifically told to, we could only rest on one knee. After an hour or two of practice throwing fake grenades containing only a blasting cap, we prepared to throw the real ones.
The whole company had to fit under a small bit of overhead cover and we were packed so tight that I could literally lift my feet off the ground and not move.
Everyone was really excited up until we were handed our 2 live grenades, then realization set in that were holding several pounds of high explosives. We were assigned to a lane, and when told to move out, had to run to it shouting which hand we throw with until told to stop.
The bunkers we threw from were made of concrete and numbered 1 and 2, with a private and a sergeant in each one. Once you handed your other grenade to the sergeant if you were a 2 you hit the deck as the 1's threw, then you prepared to throw, sweeping off the secondary safety and pulling the pin. At that point you realized the only thing keeping the fuse from being lit is your thumb holding the spoon down which will fly off if you release just a quarter pound of pressure. Once told to throw, you threw as far as you could then hit the deck. if you remained standing the sergeant would "help" you down. If you locked up and failed to throw they slammed your arm against the edge until you dropped the grenade or your arm broke, whichever happened first. If you dropped the grenade, you were hurled from the bunker. It was pretty funny to watch. After throwing your first, you throw the second grenade then headed back to the rest of the company.
After the live grenades we had lunch then headed off on the course to get qualified. Shortly thereafter we were called back to our gear and told to dump it. Apparently by theft or miscount, a grenade was missing.
The next 12 hours were spent on lock down, with various high ranking officials such as our brigade commander called in. We were searched several times and sat around while all the range cadre argued and made lots of phone calls.
Finally around 0200 it was determined that we were not responsible and were released. Unfortunately, we still needed to walk a mile and a half back. The 6 miles gave me blisters and with walking on them all day and back to the CTA, they were bleeding and larger than quarters by the time we got back. They're on my heels too, so walking sucks. Our PT test on Monday will be lovely.
Once we got back we were told to shower and go to bed immediately to grab what sleep we could get before PT at 05:30. Imagine our surprise when first call went out and it was light outside. We were woken at 0730 and had chow in the CTA at 0800. After chow we were told to go back to sleep, which was met with literal cheers and excitement. We slept in until 1100 when we got ready for chow at 1200, then did some very light ARM (Advanced Rifle Marksmanship) training, working on our fighter stances which we use when shooting standing and caring. It's a very uncomfortable stance but we are forming it into muscle memory. After ARM we went and got PX, had dinner chow and went to bed again.
All in all, it's been an interesting 2 days. We were supposed to hit Blue Phase on Saturday but lock down changed that. I'll let you know when we switch over.
Friday started off bad and just got worse. The 6 mile ruck was brutal and not helped by us going a mile in the wrong direction and having to turn around. Once we arrived at the grenade range we grounded our rucks and after breakfast we jumped right into trainingr after that, and were told we were not allowed to sit at all unless specifically told to, we could only rest on one knee. After an hour or two of practice throwing fake grenades containing only a blasting cap, we prepared to throw the real ones.
The whole company had to fit under a small bit of overhead cover and we were packed so tight that I could literally lift my feet off the ground and not move.
Everyone was really excited up until we were handed our 2 live grenades, then realization set in that were holding several pounds of high explosives. We were assigned to a lane, and when told to move out, had to run to it shouting which hand we throw with until told to stop.
The bunkers we threw from were made of concrete and numbered 1 and 2, with a private and a sergeant in each one. Once you handed your other grenade to the sergeant if you were a 2 you hit the deck as the 1's threw, then you prepared to throw, sweeping off the secondary safety and pulling the pin. At that point you realized the only thing keeping the fuse from being lit is your thumb holding the spoon down which will fly off if you release just a quarter pound of pressure. Once told to throw, you threw as far as you could then hit the deck. if you remained standing the sergeant would "help" you down. If you locked up and failed to throw they slammed your arm against the edge until you dropped the grenade or your arm broke, whichever happened first. If you dropped the grenade, you were hurled from the bunker. It was pretty funny to watch. After throwing your first, you throw the second grenade then headed back to the rest of the company.
After the live grenades we had lunch then headed off on the course to get qualified. Shortly thereafter we were called back to our gear and told to dump it. Apparently by theft or miscount, a grenade was missing.
The next 12 hours were spent on lock down, with various high ranking officials such as our brigade commander called in. We were searched several times and sat around while all the range cadre argued and made lots of phone calls.
Finally around 0200 it was determined that we were not responsible and were released. Unfortunately, we still needed to walk a mile and a half back. The 6 miles gave me blisters and with walking on them all day and back to the CTA, they were bleeding and larger than quarters by the time we got back. They're on my heels too, so walking sucks. Our PT test on Monday will be lovely.
Once we got back we were told to shower and go to bed immediately to grab what sleep we could get before PT at 05:30. Imagine our surprise when first call went out and it was light outside. We were woken at 0730 and had chow in the CTA at 0800. After chow we were told to go back to sleep, which was met with literal cheers and excitement. We slept in until 1100 when we got ready for chow at 1200, then did some very light ARM (Advanced Rifle Marksmanship) training, working on our fighter stances which we use when shooting standing and caring. It's a very uncomfortable stance but we are forming it into muscle memory. After ARM we went and got PX, had dinner chow and went to bed again.
All in all, it's been an interesting 2 days. We were supposed to hit Blue Phase on Saturday but lock down changed that. I'll let you know when we switch over.
Qual Day Sept 17
Wednesday was nothing to write about, the only noteworthy event was a nice platoon smoking in the afternoon after returning from EST.
Today however, was one of those "big" days everyone talks about. Today we would attempt to qualify with our rifles, hitting a minimum of 23 out of 40 targets to qualify. You fire 40 rounds in total. 20 in prone supported, 10 prone unsupported and 10 kneeling in increasing order of difficulty with target distances of 50m, 75m, 100m, 150m, 200m, 250m, and 300m. Your score determines what you qualify as. 23-29 gets you Marksman, 30-35 is sharpshooter and 36-40 expert. If you fail to quality on your first attempt you shoot until you do qualify and no matter what your score when you do, you earn Marksman. Those who fail to qualify by sundown are recycled to another company, since we are done with BEM.
Well long story short, after about 6 attempts and some coaching from DS Pursley and some guys from the platoon I now hold my Marksman qualification badge with the tab for rifles dangling from it in my hand. Nailing that last target was one of the biggest thrills I've had yet. I only hit 14/20 in Prone Supported and had a lot of ground to make up in unsupported and DS Pursley told me so. I concentrated hard on my breathing, trigger squeeze and follow through and hit 5/10 targets for a total of 19/30. Moving to the kneeling after carefully adjusting my kit, I knew I only needed 4 to qualify. I hit the first one and DS Pursley cheered me on , hit another and the tower called out that I was 2 away, hit another and felt like I was home free. The 50m popped up and I aimed at the free target, pulled the trigger and missed. Pursley hollered at me to fire again before it dropped and I did. The target fell. A hit. 23/40. The next thing I felt was DS Pursley slapping my helmet and yelling "fuck yeah little buddy!" As I stood up to the congratulations of those around me, DS Green approached me and handed me my badge. As I took it I actually felt a small lump in my throat because I honestly thought I was doomed there for a while there until Eggebrought and Franks got me to relax. DS Pursley was a huge help too, as he coached me through breaking the bad habits I formed over my years of shooting, most specifically my tendency to rush and get flustered. Regardless, I am now rifle qualified and have the rest of my career to work on Expert.
Tomorrow we have a 6 mile ruck, for which we are already packed followed by Grenades training, which I believe is another badge for my dress uniform whenever I get it.
Oh and for anyone curious, Beheyt shot 33 earning his Sharpshooter badge.
Today however, was one of those "big" days everyone talks about. Today we would attempt to qualify with our rifles, hitting a minimum of 23 out of 40 targets to qualify. You fire 40 rounds in total. 20 in prone supported, 10 prone unsupported and 10 kneeling in increasing order of difficulty with target distances of 50m, 75m, 100m, 150m, 200m, 250m, and 300m. Your score determines what you qualify as. 23-29 gets you Marksman, 30-35 is sharpshooter and 36-40 expert. If you fail to quality on your first attempt you shoot until you do qualify and no matter what your score when you do, you earn Marksman. Those who fail to qualify by sundown are recycled to another company, since we are done with BEM.
Well long story short, after about 6 attempts and some coaching from DS Pursley and some guys from the platoon I now hold my Marksman qualification badge with the tab for rifles dangling from it in my hand. Nailing that last target was one of the biggest thrills I've had yet. I only hit 14/20 in Prone Supported and had a lot of ground to make up in unsupported and DS Pursley told me so. I concentrated hard on my breathing, trigger squeeze and follow through and hit 5/10 targets for a total of 19/30. Moving to the kneeling after carefully adjusting my kit, I knew I only needed 4 to qualify. I hit the first one and DS Pursley cheered me on , hit another and the tower called out that I was 2 away, hit another and felt like I was home free. The 50m popped up and I aimed at the free target, pulled the trigger and missed. Pursley hollered at me to fire again before it dropped and I did. The target fell. A hit. 23/40. The next thing I felt was DS Pursley slapping my helmet and yelling "fuck yeah little buddy!" As I stood up to the congratulations of those around me, DS Green approached me and handed me my badge. As I took it I actually felt a small lump in my throat because I honestly thought I was doomed there for a while there until Eggebrought and Franks got me to relax. DS Pursley was a huge help too, as he coached me through breaking the bad habits I formed over my years of shooting, most specifically my tendency to rush and get flustered. Regardless, I am now rifle qualified and have the rest of my career to work on Expert.
Tomorrow we have a 6 mile ruck, for which we are already packed followed by Grenades training, which I believe is another badge for my dress uniform whenever I get it.
Oh and for anyone curious, Beheyt shot 33 earning his Sharpshooter badge.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Six Weeks Sept 13
So Friday marked the start of week six. It also marked a bigger milestone however, we are now halfway complete with the basic training portion of OSUT.
As we sit here on Sunday with country music playing on the radio we are allotted on weekends, we have a chance to reflect on the last weeks.
We have gone from a bunch of undisciplined, untrained, and unmotivated kids from all walks of life to that same bunch of kids just wearing uniforms and slightly better at standing in line thanks to the peculiar hell that is 30th AG.
Then we got here. In the past weeks our Drill Sergeants have done the near impossible, taken this bunch of kids and training them to respond to commands without thinking. Inbeded in them the value of discipline, gotten them to do things without being told. They have forced us to come together as a platoon and as a family, there is friction, every family has some, but even those personal conflicts are set aside temporarily as need arises.
We have learned to save the lives of our brothers and comrades, administering potentially lifesaving aid until help arrives. We can navigate through any terrain and find our way to a set point. We can fire and disassemble various kinds of heavy weaponry. We are trained in the use of the AT-4 rocket launcher and Claymore mine. All these skills we have learned in only 5 weeks.
As we look ahead to the next 10 weeks and all we have yet to learn, fire team tactics, grenades, urban warfare and more, we can see how all of this training really does transform you into a new person. The future is bright and we'll be there to meet it.
As we sit here on Sunday with country music playing on the radio we are allotted on weekends, we have a chance to reflect on the last weeks.
We have gone from a bunch of undisciplined, untrained, and unmotivated kids from all walks of life to that same bunch of kids just wearing uniforms and slightly better at standing in line thanks to the peculiar hell that is 30th AG.
Then we got here. In the past weeks our Drill Sergeants have done the near impossible, taken this bunch of kids and training them to respond to commands without thinking. Inbeded in them the value of discipline, gotten them to do things without being told. They have forced us to come together as a platoon and as a family, there is friction, every family has some, but even those personal conflicts are set aside temporarily as need arises.
We have learned to save the lives of our brothers and comrades, administering potentially lifesaving aid until help arrives. We can navigate through any terrain and find our way to a set point. We can fire and disassemble various kinds of heavy weaponry. We are trained in the use of the AT-4 rocket launcher and Claymore mine. All these skills we have learned in only 5 weeks.
As we look ahead to the next 10 weeks and all we have yet to learn, fire team tactics, grenades, urban warfare and more, we can see how all of this training really does transform you into a new person. The future is bright and we'll be there to meet it.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Pop up Targets Sept. 10
At the range again today, surprise, surprise. TLB time we were shooting lanes with pop-up targets at 75m, 175m, and 300m. We had 54 rounds total, firing 10 kneeling, 22 in prone supported, and another 22 in prone unsupported. The 10 from kneeling were for familiarization only and weren't counted in our score, we needed a 26/44 for a go and those who got a no-go the first time got a second attempt. We were also wearing full battle rattle which made it all much harder.
Yours truly initially scored a 22/44, but we took our body armor off due to the heat and I got 26/44. I've got some things to improve on, but we don't qualify until next Thursday.
We'll be heading back to the range tomorrow for more practice, but my squad and second squad are staying back to participate in a ceremonial for 9/11. With the memories of that day refreshed in our minds I predict scores to sky rocket.
Our 4 hour pass is confirmed to be this Saturday and everyone is excited. Inspection number two is also on Saturday, and we'll attempt to defend our streamer from the other platoons.
Another note about the APFT that was on Monday, our platoon's average jumped from 160 to 205, the largest jump they've ever seen.
Will write more tomorrow, lights out now.
Yours truly initially scored a 22/44, but we took our body armor off due to the heat and I got 26/44. I've got some things to improve on, but we don't qualify until next Thursday.
We'll be heading back to the range tomorrow for more practice, but my squad and second squad are staying back to participate in a ceremonial for 9/11. With the memories of that day refreshed in our minds I predict scores to sky rocket.
Our 4 hour pass is confirmed to be this Saturday and everyone is excited. Inspection number two is also on Saturday, and we'll attempt to defend our streamer from the other platoons.
Another note about the APFT that was on Monday, our platoon's average jumped from 160 to 205, the largest jump they've ever seen.
Will write more tomorrow, lights out now.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Getting shots is better than being shot at but not better than shooting, usually Sept. 9
Sorry for the long period of no letters, we spend all day at the range and have very little personal time lately, since we must clean our weapons and the bay, shower and shave, etc. all in a 3 hour period, in addition to eating chow.
We've put a lot of rounds downrange these last few days though, I've personally burned about 200 in 2 days of shooting.
Mainly we practiced zeroing and grouping from 25 meters, we got a bit of practice with our iron sights even though they aren't taught in Basic anymore. We also had APTF 2. I think I already mentioned that, but I can't remember.
Tuesday, we went to a new range and worked the pit marking hits on the targets while 3rd platoon zeroed and grouped from both 100m and 200m, firing 60 rounds at each distance.
After eating our MRE's for chow we swapped with 3rd platoon in the pit and us shooting. Many of us zeroed very quickly and spent our remaining rounds tightening our groups before moving to the 200m lane. Yours truly set a record for the day for tightest shot group at 200m, with 10 rounds fitting within a 4" circle. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to replicate this feat or even come close.
Today, first and second platoons were at the range while most of us were getting boosters to some of the shots we got at 30th AG. In the afternoon we went back to the EST 2000, or as we call it, the PlayStation for more target work, this time simulated. I think it was mostly to keep our skills sharp, though we are supposed to switch to pop-up targets but a power outage stopped that.
We've put a lot of rounds downrange these last few days though, I've personally burned about 200 in 2 days of shooting.
Mainly we practiced zeroing and grouping from 25 meters, we got a bit of practice with our iron sights even though they aren't taught in Basic anymore. We also had APTF 2. I think I already mentioned that, but I can't remember.
Tuesday, we went to a new range and worked the pit marking hits on the targets while 3rd platoon zeroed and grouped from both 100m and 200m, firing 60 rounds at each distance.
After eating our MRE's for chow we swapped with 3rd platoon in the pit and us shooting. Many of us zeroed very quickly and spent our remaining rounds tightening our groups before moving to the 200m lane. Yours truly set a record for the day for tightest shot group at 200m, with 10 rounds fitting within a 4" circle. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to replicate this feat or even come close.
Today, first and second platoons were at the range while most of us were getting boosters to some of the shots we got at 30th AG. In the afternoon we went back to the EST 2000, or as we call it, the PlayStation for more target work, this time simulated. I think it was mostly to keep our skills sharp, though we are supposed to switch to pop-up targets but a power outage stopped that.
APFT 2 and Zeroing
Had APFT 2 this morning, got 27 push ups (up from 13), 50 sit ups (down from 53), and a 20:13 2 mile (down from 22:49). Not terrible but my run needs a lot of work yet, gonna try to get it there though.
After PT test we had to run upstairs, change, eat chow, and grabed all our gear in about 30 minutes in order to make it to the range. Had our longest day at the range yet, I spent 3 hours on the firing line coaching someone before i even got to fire. We were working on zeroing our COs and iron sights at 25 meter targets. I zeroed very quickly and spent the next hours working on m grouping. I still need a lot of work but it will come with practice.
We headed back later in the evening and spend a few hours cleaning our weapons for tomorrow.
At 2000 we lined the road with our flashlights alternating red white and blue as we cheered on Bravo Company as they completed the final mile of their 12 mile ruck from the FTX site to the place they are awarded their crossed rifles, Hono-Hill. It was awesome, and we get to go through it in 10 weeks time.
This is all I have time to write, will try and get some overdue letters written tomorrow night.
After PT test we had to run upstairs, change, eat chow, and grabed all our gear in about 30 minutes in order to make it to the range. Had our longest day at the range yet, I spent 3 hours on the firing line coaching someone before i even got to fire. We were working on zeroing our COs and iron sights at 25 meter targets. I zeroed very quickly and spent the next hours working on m grouping. I still need a lot of work but it will come with practice.
We headed back later in the evening and spend a few hours cleaning our weapons for tomorrow.
At 2000 we lined the road with our flashlights alternating red white and blue as we cheered on Bravo Company as they completed the final mile of their 12 mile ruck from the FTX site to the place they are awarded their crossed rifles, Hono-Hill. It was awesome, and we get to go through it in 10 weeks time.
This is all I have time to write, will try and get some overdue letters written tomorrow night.
Labor Day weekend Sept. 5
Making this note here to force me to actually write an update for the last few days, but first sleep.
So this has been our slowest weekend yet. Had absolutely nothing to do on Saturday but a quick morning PT session, then the DS all went home and we cleaned our bay, then did weapons maintenance outside in the LTA for a few hours.
Today (Sunday) we've done even less, just cleaned the bay and caught up on sleep.
Everyone is pissed off because our mail is screwed up, we haven't gotten mail all week and thanks to the 4 day weekend, we won't get any until at least Tuesday either.
Speaking of the 4 day weekend, we of course don't get Monday off like the rest of the country, and will instead be spending it all on the range, finally shooting our M4s. We actually went to the EST (Electronic Soldier Trainer) which is basically a massive PlayStation, that simulates a firing range and has air powered M4s. We used the simulator to practice shot grouping, and I grouped in 9 shots, which was about average, with the minimum being 6 shots and max being over 20.
Franks and Hall are back from the hospital, they had some kind of viral infection so we got to sterilize the bay again.
We have a radio now, which we can use when we're cleaning. There was a lot of fighting initially over what to listen to, but we've got a rotation going.
Someone is messing with our fireguard roster, adding and switching people. I was woken up twice last night for shifts I wasn't scheduled for, the second of which I did anyways because I was too tired to fight. The PG and I have a plan to catch whoever is messing with it though. If it happens tonight I'm going to scream, we have a PT test in the morning. Hope we get phones tonight, but it doesn't seem overly likely.
So this has been our slowest weekend yet. Had absolutely nothing to do on Saturday but a quick morning PT session, then the DS all went home and we cleaned our bay, then did weapons maintenance outside in the LTA for a few hours.
Today (Sunday) we've done even less, just cleaned the bay and caught up on sleep.
Everyone is pissed off because our mail is screwed up, we haven't gotten mail all week and thanks to the 4 day weekend, we won't get any until at least Tuesday either.
Speaking of the 4 day weekend, we of course don't get Monday off like the rest of the country, and will instead be spending it all on the range, finally shooting our M4s. We actually went to the EST (Electronic Soldier Trainer) which is basically a massive PlayStation, that simulates a firing range and has air powered M4s. We used the simulator to practice shot grouping, and I grouped in 9 shots, which was about average, with the minimum being 6 shots and max being over 20.
Franks and Hall are back from the hospital, they had some kind of viral infection so we got to sterilize the bay again.
We have a radio now, which we can use when we're cleaning. There was a lot of fighting initially over what to listen to, but we've got a rotation going.
Someone is messing with our fireguard roster, adding and switching people. I was woken up twice last night for shifts I wasn't scheduled for, the second of which I did anyways because I was too tired to fight. The PG and I have a plan to catch whoever is messing with it though. If it happens tonight I'm going to scream, we have a PT test in the morning. Hope we get phones tonight, but it doesn't seem overly likely.
Grenade launchers, machine guns, and back pain Sept. 3
So those back problems I mentioned in my last letter (or was that over the phone?) have gotten worse so I went to sick call. Now on profile for 3 days with a tube of icy-hot and some ibuprofen, have to go back in if I don't get better. Missing the ruck march tomorrow which sucks, but even wearing full battle rattle strains my back, let alone a ruck. Wickman and Schumacker are gonna see if they can help, both have chiropractor experience. Wickman actually just realigned my spine to help my posture.
These past two days have been spent at the range and we have had to clean the bay during personal time, so I just now got to write. Yesterday (Wednesday) we had AT4s and 203 shooting, I missed AT4 since I was in sick call, but I got to fire the 203 grenade launcher. Everyone got 17 TPT rounds which contained orange powder. The launcher is extremely easy to operate and fire. After everyone shot, one person from each platoon got to fire an actual HE round, which make a very large bang. Someone actually hit an unexploded ME round with a TPT round downrange, making it go off. Was awesome.
Today (Thursday) we fired the M249 SAW and M240B. Was a very long day but those weapons are a blast to fire. The SAW actually fires faster than the 240, but the 240 fires a much larger round. Didn't do too well with the 240 since it was positioned awkwardly and I couldn't get a good sight picture, but i tore it up with the SAW, hitting the 150 m targets with ease. Franks went down today with a fever, and Hall went down the other day, we're dropping left and right. Powell is back though which is good news.
Tex got fired from PG today, Nunez is our new PG. Gotta sleep now, write more tomorrow.
These past two days have been spent at the range and we have had to clean the bay during personal time, so I just now got to write. Yesterday (Wednesday) we had AT4s and 203 shooting, I missed AT4 since I was in sick call, but I got to fire the 203 grenade launcher. Everyone got 17 TPT rounds which contained orange powder. The launcher is extremely easy to operate and fire. After everyone shot, one person from each platoon got to fire an actual HE round, which make a very large bang. Someone actually hit an unexploded ME round with a TPT round downrange, making it go off. Was awesome.
Today (Thursday) we fired the M249 SAW and M240B. Was a very long day but those weapons are a blast to fire. The SAW actually fires faster than the 240, but the 240 fires a much larger round. Didn't do too well with the 240 since it was positioned awkwardly and I couldn't get a good sight picture, but i tore it up with the SAW, hitting the 150 m targets with ease. Franks went down today with a fever, and Hall went down the other day, we're dropping left and right. Powell is back though which is good news.
Tex got fired from PG today, Nunez is our new PG. Gotta sleep now, write more tomorrow.
Friday, September 4, 2009
.50 Cal, MK 19 and IEDs Sept. 1
Haven't had much time to write these last few days, been busy. We hit the range yesterday (Monday) for the first time, and started off with a literal bang.
Had classes on loading, unloading and correcting malfunctions on both weapons, then moved to the firing line. MK 19 was first for our group, each person got to fire 3 fire round bursts of TTP rounds (Target and Training practice) which are basically flash bangs.
After an extremely hasty MRE lunch, we moved to .50 cal. Since I was near the back of the line and they had ammo to burn, I got to fire off half a box. It was definitely one of the coolest things I've done.
Later that day, after .50 cal, Beheyt had to be MEDECAC'd since he had a 103.6 core temp due to being sick. Since I'm his Battle Buddy I went to the hospital with him. We got some absolutely amazing chow for free in the cafeteria, waited for about 5 hours. Beheyt was diagnosed with Bronchitis and got medicine from the pharmacy and finally we got picked up by battalion and taken back.
We've started running a lot more, and I can feel it in my knees. Hell, today was upper body and we ran a mile on the track before the end of PT.
Got some classes on Unexploded Ordinance (UXO), IEDs and Claymores today. Learned some really interesting stuff about explosives. For example, one type of IED, the CFB, has a projectile that travels at 1.5 miles per second. Yes, that is miles. It can also penetrate 12 inches of steal at 100m.
All I have time to write now, time to sleep.
Had classes on loading, unloading and correcting malfunctions on both weapons, then moved to the firing line. MK 19 was first for our group, each person got to fire 3 fire round bursts of TTP rounds (Target and Training practice) which are basically flash bangs.
After an extremely hasty MRE lunch, we moved to .50 cal. Since I was near the back of the line and they had ammo to burn, I got to fire off half a box. It was definitely one of the coolest things I've done.
Later that day, after .50 cal, Beheyt had to be MEDECAC'd since he had a 103.6 core temp due to being sick. Since I'm his Battle Buddy I went to the hospital with him. We got some absolutely amazing chow for free in the cafeteria, waited for about 5 hours. Beheyt was diagnosed with Bronchitis and got medicine from the pharmacy and finally we got picked up by battalion and taken back.
We've started running a lot more, and I can feel it in my knees. Hell, today was upper body and we ran a mile on the track before the end of PT.
Got some classes on Unexploded Ordinance (UXO), IEDs and Claymores today. Learned some really interesting stuff about explosives. For example, one type of IED, the CFB, has a projectile that travels at 1.5 miles per second. Yes, that is miles. It can also penetrate 12 inches of steal at 100m.
All I have time to write now, time to sleep.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
White Phase Aug. 29
White flags now fly from our quidons instead of the red. Has our end of phase testing and inspection today and officially transitioned into White Phase.
Right now it's 15:50 (3:50 pm) and our Drill Sergeants have already gone home for the day, leaving us alone. We have a Platoon Guide (PG) Big Tex is ours and squad leaders. The PG marches us to chow now instead of a DS, and we no longer form up afterwards, just head back to the bay in buddy teams. We are also allowed to choose what we eat from the menu instead of taking the first tray that comes to us. We also walk ourselves to church now.
One of our civilian training aides will be coming by at either 1800 or 1830 selling power bars and Gatorade.
Apparently the DS are staying gone through tomorrow, save DS V who is on CQ. We should at least get our phones, if not our 4 hour pass. Speaking of DS V, he's going hunting tonight, actually just walked in wearing civilian clothes to grab a map.
Our inspection this morning was by the 1SG instead of the CO, and our platoon was the best, earning us a streamer.
During the ceremony, the quidon flags were changed, the 1SG spoke to us, then presented teh streamers each platoon earned. Combatives for 1st platoon, APFT scores for 2nd platoon, obstacle course time for 3rd platoon and our streamer for inspection. When the streamers were presented the 1SG called for a round of applause, but when he got to our platoon, he personally told us that we were the best platoon he inspected "by far", earning us praise for our DS.
Things are already improving among our platoon, lots of fighting with everyone trying to be in charge, but that has almost disappeared with our new clear cut leadership.
We'll be doing a LOT more running now, which is good because I need it, but also sucks because I hate running.
Right now it's 15:50 (3:50 pm) and our Drill Sergeants have already gone home for the day, leaving us alone. We have a Platoon Guide (PG) Big Tex is ours and squad leaders. The PG marches us to chow now instead of a DS, and we no longer form up afterwards, just head back to the bay in buddy teams. We are also allowed to choose what we eat from the menu instead of taking the first tray that comes to us. We also walk ourselves to church now.
One of our civilian training aides will be coming by at either 1800 or 1830 selling power bars and Gatorade.
Apparently the DS are staying gone through tomorrow, save DS V who is on CQ. We should at least get our phones, if not our 4 hour pass. Speaking of DS V, he's going hunting tonight, actually just walked in wearing civilian clothes to grab a map.
Our inspection this morning was by the 1SG instead of the CO, and our platoon was the best, earning us a streamer.
During the ceremony, the quidon flags were changed, the 1SG spoke to us, then presented teh streamers each platoon earned. Combatives for 1st platoon, APFT scores for 2nd platoon, obstacle course time for 3rd platoon and our streamer for inspection. When the streamers were presented the 1SG called for a round of applause, but when he got to our platoon, he personally told us that we were the best platoon he inspected "by far", earning us praise for our DS.
Things are already improving among our platoon, lots of fighting with everyone trying to be in charge, but that has almost disappeared with our new clear cut leadership.
We'll be doing a LOT more running now, which is good because I need it, but also sucks because I hate running.
Weather and APFT Aug. 28
After a refreshing night in the bay, we woke up and took out PT test (APFT). I've been improving significantly since coming. On the 1-1-1, I only did 6 correct push ups, 27 sit ups, and had 11:28 1 mile time. This time around I did 23 push ups, 53 sit ups (the minimum to pass too) and had 10:20 1 mile with a 23:39 2 mile time. We start running a lot in White phase apparently, so my times will decrease.
After APFT, we headed back to the field for yet more land nav. Split into two man teams (myself and Nunez this time) and headed off once more. All our points save 1 were very close so we finished fast and got the info for our far point from another group.
That night we had made some quick 2 man shelters using our rucks, trees, ponchos and bungee cords and bedded down at about 1830 for a few hours of sleep before our 0215 wake up. It had been overcast and drizzling all day, and finally opened up about 1900. Poured rain all night, but our shelters kept us mostly dry. Woke up and prepared for our night exercise, which was an individual one. We also were not allowed to use the roads, just straight dead reckoning.
Mother Nature had other plans however and 30 minutes after we started we were called back due to severe T-storms in the area. It got so bad, they used the deuces and crammed us in like sardines (16 people with rucks in a vehicle that normally fits 12) and took us back to the LTA. Had nothing to do all day, just sat around and cleaned. There is a concert here on the 7th or 12th and I get to go, will be awesome. Our end of phase test is tomorrow, along with our inspection by our IO which the best platoon wins a streamer. This mean we should move to white phase on Sunday with a 4 hour pass then or next weekend.
I'm hoping we're done with land nav, since I've gotten a GO on every run so far. All we learned today was some Drill and Ceremony after dinner. Tomorrow looks to be a slow day too. Next week is explosives week, with rifle training among other things.
After APFT, we headed back to the field for yet more land nav. Split into two man teams (myself and Nunez this time) and headed off once more. All our points save 1 were very close so we finished fast and got the info for our far point from another group.
That night we had made some quick 2 man shelters using our rucks, trees, ponchos and bungee cords and bedded down at about 1830 for a few hours of sleep before our 0215 wake up. It had been overcast and drizzling all day, and finally opened up about 1900. Poured rain all night, but our shelters kept us mostly dry. Woke up and prepared for our night exercise, which was an individual one. We also were not allowed to use the roads, just straight dead reckoning.
Mother Nature had other plans however and 30 minutes after we started we were called back due to severe T-storms in the area. It got so bad, they used the deuces and crammed us in like sardines (16 people with rucks in a vehicle that normally fits 12) and took us back to the LTA. Had nothing to do all day, just sat around and cleaned. There is a concert here on the 7th or 12th and I get to go, will be awesome. Our end of phase test is tomorrow, along with our inspection by our IO which the best platoon wins a streamer. This mean we should move to white phase on Sunday with a 4 hour pass then or next weekend.
I'm hoping we're done with land nav, since I've gotten a GO on every run so far. All we learned today was some Drill and Ceremony after dinner. Tomorrow looks to be a slow day too. Next week is explosives week, with rifle training among other things.
Land Nav
Red orbs shine like hungry eyes through the trees as the night sky above, lit only by stars and the moon begins to brighten, the first sign of the approaching dawn. This was just one of the many scenes from our recent 2 days and 1 night in the field of land nav.
We arrived at our base camp at about 1030, and our platoon was scheduled to step off at 1230. We spent the time in between double checking our coordinate points and distance measurements, split into four man teams (me, Behey, Burks and Brandsasse), and got our pace counts.
Once told to set off, we had 4 hours to return and six points to find, needing 4/6 to receive a GO. Our group trudged back in weak, weary and filthy about 3 hours after starting, with all six points found and correct, receiving a score of 6/6. Yours truly saved the day twice after we took wrong turns and am glad to know his skills hadn't diminished much.
After all teams returned, we ate dinner and bedded down for a few hours. At 0215 we wake and packed our gear and at 0330 my new group (Triplett, Behey, Frank and myself) set off on our night land nav course. Unfortunately, as much as I saved the day earlier, I got us this time around due to hasty plotting on my part. Oops! We were given 6 points but only had to use 4, and of those needed only 3 to pass, and had 3 hours to return. We found 3 points in a hour and then spend an hour and a half searching for the fourth to no avail. Not a single team found it. At about 0550 we realized we were over a mile out and had to be back by 0630, so we got a fast pace back and made it by 0620 and received a 3/4 for a go.
After a hour nap and some breakfast, we found out that we would be doing the course AGAIN, Let's just say we were less than enthused. Teams were the same as the exercised and we actually moved fast, finding all six points in 2 hours for another go.
We packed up and headed back here for dinner and sleep. Since we have a PT test in the morning. Everyone is expecting failure. Our legs are exhausted and our feet blistered. Running 2 miles will suck.
After PT test it's back out for more land nav, once again a 2 day 1 night exercise. This time, it will be 2 man teams and individual exercises. Depending on overall performance, we may do up to 4 more runs through the course.
For those wondering, this is not a typical land nav course. It covers 3 grid squares, with points being anywhere from 300-1900m apart. I've walked about 10 miles on 3 runs so far. There points can also be about 200m into the woods.
DS King joined us today, bringing our platoon to the standard 3 drill sergeants.
You know you're in the Army when:
You clean a whiteboard with a washcloth and hand sanitizer.
Your weapons pack is know as "the bar" with its own designated bartender.
We arrived at our base camp at about 1030, and our platoon was scheduled to step off at 1230. We spent the time in between double checking our coordinate points and distance measurements, split into four man teams (me, Behey, Burks and Brandsasse), and got our pace counts.
Once told to set off, we had 4 hours to return and six points to find, needing 4/6 to receive a GO. Our group trudged back in weak, weary and filthy about 3 hours after starting, with all six points found and correct, receiving a score of 6/6. Yours truly saved the day twice after we took wrong turns and am glad to know his skills hadn't diminished much.
After all teams returned, we ate dinner and bedded down for a few hours. At 0215 we wake and packed our gear and at 0330 my new group (Triplett, Behey, Frank and myself) set off on our night land nav course. Unfortunately, as much as I saved the day earlier, I got us this time around due to hasty plotting on my part. Oops! We were given 6 points but only had to use 4, and of those needed only 3 to pass, and had 3 hours to return. We found 3 points in a hour and then spend an hour and a half searching for the fourth to no avail. Not a single team found it. At about 0550 we realized we were over a mile out and had to be back by 0630, so we got a fast pace back and made it by 0620 and received a 3/4 for a go.
After a hour nap and some breakfast, we found out that we would be doing the course AGAIN, Let's just say we were less than enthused. Teams were the same as the exercised and we actually moved fast, finding all six points in 2 hours for another go.
We packed up and headed back here for dinner and sleep. Since we have a PT test in the morning. Everyone is expecting failure. Our legs are exhausted and our feet blistered. Running 2 miles will suck.
After PT test it's back out for more land nav, once again a 2 day 1 night exercise. This time, it will be 2 man teams and individual exercises. Depending on overall performance, we may do up to 4 more runs through the course.
For those wondering, this is not a typical land nav course. It covers 3 grid squares, with points being anywhere from 300-1900m apart. I've walked about 10 miles on 3 runs so far. There points can also be about 200m into the woods.
DS King joined us today, bringing our platoon to the standard 3 drill sergeants.
You know you're in the Army when:
You clean a whiteboard with a washcloth and hand sanitizer.
Your weapons pack is know as "the bar" with its own designated bartender.
Confidence Course and Flag Detail
And I thought combatives was exhausting. Holy freaking shit on a altar was I wrong. Had a hasty breakfast then set off on the mile or so march to the course. It was an easy march and we made good time. Sat around for about an hour and a half waiting for the DSs to show up, then got yelled at for being behind schedule. Ah the life of a private.
Our platoon started with the Grant's Ladder, which was extremely easy and not at all hard. Moved to the German Wall after that, which starts with a sloped rope climb then a series of walls getting progressively higher up to 12 feet, and must be climbed using six people. Was kinda hard, but our group had an easy time. Next we moved to the Skyscraper, that multi-level tower you see in all the basic videos. Very unstable at the top and about 20 feet high, was pretty scary but we all did it. Lastly came the Tough One, starts out with a rope climb or a notched pole climb if you fail the rope twice. Next you walk across some 2 inch planks a good 20 feet in the air, then climb an A-frame ladder up another 20 feet to the top of a cargo net which you climb down. Being 40 feet in the air holding onto a beam and climbing over isn't fun. Succeeded though, which is what counts.
After the Confidence Course, we moved to the obstacle course, which was timed and includes a mud pit. Huge workout and very challenging.
Six of us including myself were on flag detail, since DS V was on Brigade Staff Duty. Marched back once we finished, got hosed off and changed into clean ACUs then double-timed to Brigade HQ about half a mile. Made it on time though. Did our flag folding. I then headed back for the best chow yet. So good after a long day. We have to raise the flag at 0500 tomorrow and I'm gonna sleep like a rock tonight.
Land Nav course and a night in the field tomorrow, will write once I'm back.
Vance got us smoked again, caught a spider and decided it would be smart to ask a DS what type it was. Company smoking followed.
Signing off now, gotta sleep since I wake up at 0430.
P.S. We had a heat casualty today, Marin, he passed out during the obstacle course and is in the hospital.
P.P.S In case you're wondering, yes, I am covered in bruises. Lots of physical work was done today.
Our platoon started with the Grant's Ladder, which was extremely easy and not at all hard. Moved to the German Wall after that, which starts with a sloped rope climb then a series of walls getting progressively higher up to 12 feet, and must be climbed using six people. Was kinda hard, but our group had an easy time. Next we moved to the Skyscraper, that multi-level tower you see in all the basic videos. Very unstable at the top and about 20 feet high, was pretty scary but we all did it. Lastly came the Tough One, starts out with a rope climb or a notched pole climb if you fail the rope twice. Next you walk across some 2 inch planks a good 20 feet in the air, then climb an A-frame ladder up another 20 feet to the top of a cargo net which you climb down. Being 40 feet in the air holding onto a beam and climbing over isn't fun. Succeeded though, which is what counts.
After the Confidence Course, we moved to the obstacle course, which was timed and includes a mud pit. Huge workout and very challenging.
Six of us including myself were on flag detail, since DS V was on Brigade Staff Duty. Marched back once we finished, got hosed off and changed into clean ACUs then double-timed to Brigade HQ about half a mile. Made it on time though. Did our flag folding. I then headed back for the best chow yet. So good after a long day. We have to raise the flag at 0500 tomorrow and I'm gonna sleep like a rock tonight.
Land Nav course and a night in the field tomorrow, will write once I'm back.
Vance got us smoked again, caught a spider and decided it would be smart to ask a DS what type it was. Company smoking followed.
Signing off now, gotta sleep since I wake up at 0430.
P.S. We had a heat casualty today, Marin, he passed out during the obstacle course and is in the hospital.
P.P.S In case you're wondering, yes, I am covered in bruises. Lots of physical work was done today.
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