Training Day #1

On Sunday 28 June, check-in and final processing concluded preparing our recruits for an arduous and demanding schedule of activities. Today marked the official 1^st day of training for the 2009 Annual Training Brigade. The morning began with a physical fitness test, used to gauge overall fitness and conditioning. The test consists of:

- maximum number of right-angle push-ups

- maximum number of sit-ups in 1 minute

- shuttle run

- V sit and reach

- 1 mile run

The testing format allows Battalion Staff and Drill Sergeants to effectively measure core body strength, agility, flexibility, and endurance. The standards for measurement are determined by age and gender. Depending on performance, recruits can earn USAC minimum, National, or Presidential fitness status.

Recruits were also introduced to The U.S. Army Cadet Corps Martial Arts Program (TACMAP). This unique style of fighting utilizes a combination of self-defense, Judo, Aikido, Jujitsu, Karate, Boxing, and Wrestling.

Under the leadership and guidance of 1^st Sergeant Wyland, the Headquarters Company local to Kentucky and the MMI campus continued to train on Color Guard procedure and ceremony.

Compared to what many recruits are accustomed to, the training intensity will increase exponentially over the next few days. Your sons and daughters (our recruits and future leaders) will be pushed to limits they thought could never be surpassed; they will experience stress, anxiety, and fatigue comparable to almost nothing they’ve encountered to date. Motivation and enthusiasm are paramount for success. Our recruits are beginning to understand the importance of teamwork by motivating one another toward the goal of graduating as a Cadet in world’s greatest Military Cadet Corps. Hooah!

Basic Cadet Training - Processing Day

The Annual Training Unit began Day #2 with an early rise for Physical Fitness Training. Under the cover of early morning darkness and an open Kentucky sky, recruits were given instruction on basic calisthenics and military exercises. This mild introduction to fitness was the first step in preparing recruits for the forthcoming rigors of training.


After morning chow, recruits began the academic coursework required to successfully complete training and graduate as a Cadet in the U.S. Army Cadet Corps. Topics covered by the instructors included military customs and courtesies, how to make a bunk, along with Drill and Ceremony. Drill and Ceremony is conducted every day, as it instills discipline, self-confidence and automatic response to orders and commands. As recruits master the marching movements, they will gain the confidence needed to lead and direct others.




Uniform and equipment issue is near completion. During check-in, the company formation consisted of a patchwork of individuals operating unilaterally and seeking acceptance, while Training Day #2 boasted a more homogeneous and cohesive group. Each recruit has been assigned to 1 of 3 platoons complete with 30 of their peers, two Cadet Troop Handlers and a member of the Officer Corps (adult cadre). Two U.S. Army Drill Sergeants direct and manage Troop Handlers and recruits during each training evolution.

Basic Cadet Training - Receiving Day

Welcome friends, family and alumni of the U.S. Army Cadet Corps (USAC) and the Millersburg Military Institute (MMI). Today we celebrate not only a successful kick-off of the 2009 Annual Training, but also the fusion of two great programs rich in history and tradition. We are sincerely proud to maintain the legacy of COL C.M. Best and the prestigious 113 year history of MMI, while we forge the future with USAC under the wisdom and leadership of BG Charles R. Tornow. These institutions will provide a platform in which to train and develop youth into considerate, confident and honorable members of society.

The Annual Training Battalion consists of highly motivated recruits, Cadets and adult non-paid professionals who serve as officers and noncommissioned officers. As recruits arrived on the historic campus, they were processed to ensure full accountability of each individual and their personal belongings. Male recruits will receive a "high and tight" haircut. Regardless of age, gender or ethnic background, each individual will encounter a high-adventure military experience equivalent to the challenges and rigors presented to our active duty and reserve counterparts. The safety and well-being of each person is of the utmost priority. Only the Army can create soldiers. Our intent is to provide an energetic, well-disciplined and fun environment conducive to excellence.