Since the emergence of our organized, national militia, two simple words have never failed to become the very source of great curiosity, while always consistently managing to strike great amounts of fear and apprehension into the impressionable minds of new recruits.  Plainly spoken, the words “basic training” carry a certain degree of mystique and intrigue behind them that, to a new military recruit, regardless of their service branch of association or affiliation, requires a degree of further explanation in order to understand more clearly.

In an attempt to gain this better understanding of what one can expect to experience during the weeks spent at basic training, one may spend countless hours in diligent, yet informal, research.  As the spark of curiosity is ignited, it oftentimes seems that many varying viewpoints surface regarding many subtle aspects of Basic Training.  Needless worry over things like drill sergeants, and their creative methods of discipline, may predominate your concern, although, one will find that it is those who have successfully completed basic training that can testify to the valuable importance of this training.

Whether a new recruit, just weeks before ‘shipping-out’, spends his time asking questions, or scrolling vigorously through military related message boards, this curiosity is certainly commonplace in any individual who is about to faithfully venture into the unknown.  This departure from the common to the uncommon may be accompanied by a degree of culture shock, but, essentially, that is what basic training is: a completely new experience, where uncertainty and unpredictability thrive.

While some aspects of basic training may vary, based on the hosting and conducting service branch, as well as, the location, the fundamental principles guiding the pursuit of the development of quality individuals, these principles manage to remain thoroughly common, unchanged and consistent throughout.  Ultimately, the goal of any kind of military-related basic training program is to turn you into the best soldier, marine, airman, or sailor possible.  No matter how “mean” you anticipate them becoming, many Drill Sergeants have dedicated their careers to seeing that the time-honored tradition, and professionalism, associated with the military is passed on to subsequent generations.  That right of passage starts with YOU: the new recruit.  Because of the great value of this incredible responsibility, you can rest easy knowing that you will have the “best-of-the-best” training you, while attempting to accomplish a great feet (in some) in just the matter of a few short weeks.

As your muscle fibers fatigue, and rebuild, with each grueling push-up, over the course of your basic training indoctrination, you will begin to notice a complete metamorphosis.  Not only will you grow stronger physically, but, your Drill Sergeant will provide the necessary instruction to ensure that you succeed, while continually fostering the basic service-orientated principles that you will come to embody with everything you are.  The lasting effects of this training are ones that you will carry with you for your entire career.  When under the stresses of combat, or while simply training with your unit while on the home front, it is during these critical times where immediate recollection of training, and discipline, will become necessary, and a fully applicable requirement for survival.