Becoming a USAC Cadet

The first few days of Basic Cadet Training (BCT) can be very stressful. Our recruits are in a strange place with people that they have never met before and wearing funny clothes.

This culture shock is the first step in changing our Recruits into Cadets.

Please don’t get me wrong. We are not about building soldiers. In the USAC we help young people to succeed by teaching them leadership skills, people skills and life skills that will let them succeed in life.

Here are some of the highlights of the last few days of training.

Each morning starts with Physical Training or “PT.” The recruits are up at 6:00 AM and start their day with a period of exercise and a run. On Monday our company’s leaders and the Troop Handlers conducted a Physical Fitness test that measures how many push-ups and sit-ups a recruit can do and how long it takes them to run 2 miles. The results of a test are used as a benchmark to determine how well they have progressed during the course of BCT.

A key activity over the last three days has been Drill and Ceremonies. We use drill to teach teamwork, discipline and attention to detail. It takes concentration, effort and discipline to learn how to stand at attention and move in unison as a unit.

This instruction is given by our Troop Handlers under the supervision of Drill Sergeant Nordan. Nordan is a retired Army Sergeant First Class and an Army Drill Sergeant. His most important job is to mentor our Troop Handlers as well as being a principal instructor in military subjects.

Each day our Recruits have 3 wholesome and nutritious meals at our dining facility (DFAC). While there they eat and do nothing else. Recruits may not have conversations, keep their elbows off the table and must sit straight with their feet flat on the ground while in the DFAC.

Once they become a Cadet they will have the privilege of being able to have a conversation at the table.

On the first day they were struggling but as I write this blog the cadets are starting to get it and are beginning to work together. I can hardly wait for the Graduation Ceremony on July 9th.

Lt. Col. Jim Gorman and Major Jeff Campbell have been teaching our recruits The Army Cadet Martial Arts Program (TACMAP.)

TACMAP utilizes MCJKKD (Military Cadet Jukaikido) as its main training format, which includes a combination of Self Defense, Judo, Aikido, Jujitsu, Karate, Boxing and Wrestling. The cadets have been very receptive to these training sessions. One reason is that there is "no rank on the mat," so they can compete with Cadets and others as complete equals.

If you go to the National Cadet Training Center’s Facebook you will see pictures of our Recruits receiving instruction in TACMAP over the past few days.

Recruits also spend time each day preparing the barracks (dorms) for inspection. This includes keeping their personal space in order; they make their beds to standard, arrange their uniforms in a standard way and make sure the common areas are clean.

Each day our Recruits, their living areas and common areas are inspected by their Troop Handlers and company leadership.

This evening our Recruits will enjoy “Canteen.” It’s time that every few days our Recruits can enjoy a beverage or a treat and basically “be kids” again. We have a Canteen area that is adjacent to ACES where Recruits and Cadets can play pool, other games or just hang out. They are still under the supervision of their Troop Handlers but it’s their time to let their hair down (well, so to speak!)

Training for our Recruits and the Cadet Ranger Challenge (CRC) candidates is going well. Tomorrow I will blog about the CRC as well as more about our BCT Recruits.

Please take a moment to visit the National Cadet Training Center Facebook for the latest images from AT.

Link: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/National-Cadet-Training-Center-Official/350329073135

V/R,


AL PABON
Civilian Executive, USAC
Annual Training Battalion
Deputy G1/Public Affairs Officer
Headquarters, U.S. Army Cadet Corps
"ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE!"

BCT Update # 1

First please accept my apologies for not updating over the past few days.

Things have been very busy here at the National Cadet Training Center (NCTC) but I wanted to share some updates with you.

On Saturday June 26th, our Troop Handler candidates became USAC Troop Handlers.
The candidates spent a week learning and applying the skills that they will need to work with recruits in the Basic Cadet Training environment and back at their home companies.

Major Jeff Campbell presided over the ceremony where our candidates received their pith helmets and distinctive green and gold T-Shirts.

Each candidate took the following oath:

“I hereby accept the appointment as a Troop Handler and swear to the following oath:”

“These are my Recruits.”

“I will train them to the best of my ability.”

“I will develop them into smartly disciplined, physically fit and basically trained Army Cadets, thoroughly indoctrinated in love of Corps, Army and Country.”

“I will demand of them, and demonstrate by my own example, the highest standards of personal conduct, morality, military bearing and professional skill.”

Pictures are available on the NCTC’s Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150362928243136.428294.350329073135

After that ceremony things really went into high gear as we made ready for an influx of nearly 120 recruits for the CT-1 session that started on Sunday June 27th.
During the course of the day the Cadet Ranger Candidates took some of the skills they have learned over the last week to the test as they participated in a Airsoft engagement against members of the NCTC Staff.

We posted some before images at this link on the NCTC Facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/media/albums/?id=350329073135#!/media/set/?set=a.10150364072258136.428701.350329073135

The biggest news is that the first session of Basic Cadet Training has begun. On Sunday we had recruits come from all over the United States and recruits from at least eight foreign nations converge on Millersburg and the NCTC for Basic Cadet Training (BCT).

Initially I thought that the afternoon would be crazy. I was wrong. You see, USAC has a very organized recruit intake process.

First they checked in with administration who signed them into the course, made sure their documentation was in order and fees were paid.

Next the recruits headed to the Troop Handlers, who checked their bags for the items the recruits will need during BCT. They also secured and stored any items that are contraband.

Recruits went to medical for screening and a visit with CPT Rallie McAllister, our Director of Health Services, and her very dedicated team of volunteer nurses and other medical practitioners.. They verified everything on the application and medical forms, collected prescriptions and made sure the recruits are ready to participate in the BCT course.

Once they completed their medical check they visited Army Cadet Exchange Service (ACES).

ACES in unique in cadetting in that USAC has the only in house operation that produces much of the needed uniform items that the members need. I was able to watch the ACES team produce name and branch tapes, rank insignia, T-shirts, Dog Tags and guidons for our members.

They also contract with a variety of vendors to provide uniforms, equipment, boots and other needed items at a reasonable price.

Each Military Adventure Camp participant received an initial issue of uniforms and equipment that they will need here at BCT. All of the equipment is high quality and is sized to each Recruit.

USAC Recruits also received items that they have ordered online to complete their duffel bags.

Recruits also deposited funds into their ACES account so they can pay for items that they would like to purchase at ACES such as treats during Canteen nights, Airsoft items, souvenirs and other military items.

Recruits who flew in were afforded a chance to make "safe arrival call" to their home and all Recruits received a haircut.

Each Recruit was fed and was introduced to their Troop Handlers and their BCT Experience begins.

In-processing ran well into the night as we had Recruits to pick-up at Cincinnati and Lexington Airports

Please visit the National Cadet Training Center’s Facebook for images from these activities.

Link: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/National-Cadet-Training-Center-Official/350329073135

My next blog will talk about the recruit’s first day and he beginning of their transformation into a USAC Cadet.

V/R,

AL PABON
Civilian Executive, USAC
Annual Training Battalion
Deputy G1/Public Affairs Officer
Headquarters, U.S. Army Cadet Corps

"ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE!"

Annual Training - Day 3 Update

Yesterday was a day about leadership and challenges.

Our Cadets are starting to get used to waking up at 0530 (5:30 AM) for their daily Physical Fitness Training.

Cadet Ranger Candidates started their day with learning about the storied history of American Rangers and their exploits.

The Cadet Ranger Candidates were issued their field equipment consisting of a rucksack, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, Kevlar helmet, entrenching tool, load carrying equipment (LCE), a shelter half and a simulated weapon (also known as a “rubber duck”.) They started work on organizing their “TA-50”.

The Troop Handler Candidates spent much of the day learning more of their craft. Topics included Drill and Ceremonies, Barracks Inspections, USAC and Army Values, Customs and Courtesies, and a presentation on Sexual Harassment and Offensive Behavior.

The focus of the day was on “Training the Trainer.”

Troop Handlers are the primary trainers and leaders of our Recruits here at Annual Training. Our recruits need to learn everything about being a basically Cadet, from how to wear the uniform, performing drill and ceremonies and many other core tasks that a cadet must master to graduate from Basic Cadet Training. Unlike other programs, our young men and women must earn the title "Cadet" by successfully completing Basic Cadet Training.

Tomorrow our Cadet Ranger Candidates go to the Bluelicks State Park Swimming Pool to do the “Combat Water Survival Test.”

Early in the evening the Cadet Ranger Candidates received their Guidon.

A guidon is a small swallow tailed flag that traditionally represents an army/marine/naval company or an air force squadron.

In the USAC we also use them as a unit flag for our training platoons. Each Basic Cadet Training Platoon and advanced course platoon receives a guidon. The Cadet Ranger Program is new to the USAC and as it is starting its second year the program received its guidon a special evening formation.

We continue our preparations for this Sunday when our Basic Cadet Training and Basic Leader Course participants arrive.

Please also take a moment to look at images from today’s training and at the NCTC Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150348020598136.426194.350329073135

Thanks and have a great Army Cadet day!

AL PABON
Civilian Executive, USAC
Annual Training Battalion
Public Affairs Officer
Headquarters, U.S. Army Cadet Corps
"ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE!"

Day 2 - Annual Training 2011

The Cadet Ranger Challenge and Troop Handler Academy Cadets focused their efforts today on preparing for training and personal Fitness.

They got up at 5:30 AM today for about an hour of physical fitness training and testing.
The Cadets all took the Army Cadet Physical Fitness Test (ACPFT) It consists of counting the number of pushups and sit-ups that a Cadet can do in 2 minutes, and a timed 2 mile run. It is aligned with the US Army’s standards. Cadet Rangers must pass with 60 percent or greater to go on to ranger course and graduate from Cadet Ranger Challenge.

After a healthy breakfast served by our Chef, Scott and his assistants Victoria and Layne the Cadets spent time “breaking the ice and learning about the week’s activities’. The Cadet Ranger Candidates received a course orientation letting them know about the expectations and challenges they face as they begin the CRC.

The Troop Handler candidates spent time refreshing themselves on Drill and Ceremonies. This is very important because the Troop Handlers will use Drill to teach important concepts of leadership to their charges, followership and teamwork. Before you can become a leader you must first be a good follower and learn to work together as a team.

As a leadership exercise the Cadet Ranger Candidates worked together to organize their rooms as a team. No published standard, just working together to achieve a goal. They would either succeed or fail as a team.

After a tasty lunch and time in the barracks both classes went to Womack Gym to participate in The Army Cadet Martial Arts Program (TACMAP).

TACMAP is a martial arts training program based on rigid military standards, along with other high-adventure recreational activities. TACMAP utilizes MCJKKD as its main training format, which includes a combination of Self Defense, Judo, Aikido, Jujitsu, Karate, Boxing and Wrestling. Builds upon the training received during our other courses like Basic Cadet Training, the Basic Leader Course and Cadet Ranger School.

Lt. Col. Joe Gorman, the Training Battalion Commander and his Executive Officer, Major Jeff Campbell facilitates the refresher session where the Cadets leaned various holds and counters.
The training will help the troop handlers to prepare their recruits and it will also help the Cadet Ranger Candidates to prepare for their coming adventures.

The Cadets ended their day with a visit to ACES, the Army Cadet Exchange Service in the basement of Womack Gym. There the cadets can buy uniform items, military gear, Airsoft equipment and treats/drinks.

ACES is a unique operation in that USAC produces much of the uniform items (patches, cloth insignia, T-shirts) and the like in house. This means that USAC Cadets and Officers get a great deal on the items sold but the corps receives proceeds from the sale rather than a middle-man. This allows for more improvements to be made to the NCTC and improve program for all of the Cadets. To see what ACES has to offer please go to http://acesstore.com/catalog/

Please also take a moment to look at images from today's activity and of ACES at the NCTC Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/National-Cadet-Training-Center-Official/350329073135

Thanks and have a great Army Cadet day!

AL PABON
Civilian Executive, USAC
Annual Training Battalion
Public Affairs Officer
Headquarters, U.S. Army Cadet Corps
"ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE!"

And So It Begins

Our Troop Handler Academy and Cadet Ranger Challenge Cadets are here at the National Cadet Training Center as Annual Training 2011 begins.

Annual Training consists of three groups of events:

Group 1 – Cadet Training and Leader Development

Basic Cadet Training (2 Weeks)
Basic Leader Course (3 Weeks)
Troop Handler Academy (1 Week)
Cadet Noncommissioned Officer Course (3 weeks)

This week we are offering the Troop Handler Academy.

The Troop Handler Academy is a 6 day training event for handpicked Cadet Noncommissioned Officers who desire to be selected to serve as Troop Handlers for recruits participating in our Basic Cadet Training programs. Their training emphasizes small unit leadership drill, basic customs and courtesies, uniforms, physical fitness, barracks procedures and techniques used in training new recruits.

When the Cadets complete their training they will be eligible to staff our Basic Cadet Training as Troop Handlers or assist as staff members at the Basic Leader Course.

Cadets must typically be in the rank of Cadet Corporal or above and have satisfactorily completed the USAC’s Basic Leader Course to be eligible to attend this course.

Group 2 – High Adventure

We also have a series of High Adventure or as they say here “HOOAH!” type of activities. These are:

Cadet Ranger Challenge (3 weeks)
Cadet Ranger School (3 Weeks)
Military Police Academy (2 Weeks)
The Army Cadet Martial Arts Program (1 Week)

Cadets this week are starting the Cadet Ranger Challenge, an intense three-week program based on the U.S. Army Ranger Indoctrination Program (RIP). This program is designed to introduce Cadets to High Adventure lifestyle and includes challenges of both personal trials and team environments.

Successful completion of CRC is required in order to be eligible for Cadet Ranger School (CRS). To pass, excellent conditioning and motivation is required while maintaining the ability to work as part of a team

Group 3 – Professional Development

Finally we will be offering a series of week-long development courses for our officers and non commissioned officers. These are:

Officer Candidate School (OCS) Phase I
Officer Candidate School (OCS) Phase III
Direct Commission Course (DCC)

These courses will start later in the summer and focus in the development of the officers who lead your local companies and administer the program here at headquarters.

Over the next seven or so weeks we will be letting you know what is going on here at Annual Training, more about the courses that we will be offering as well as sharing some behind the scenes stories and of course tons of pictures!

Thanks and have a great Army Cadet day.

AL PABON
Civilian Executive, USACC
Annual Training Battalion
Public Affairs Officer
Headquarters, U.S. Army Cadet Corps
"ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE!"