Basic Training At Army Fort Benning: What To Expect

The United States Army's Basic Combat Training (BCT) is a rigorous and transformative process that turns civilians into soldiers. For many new recruits, this journey begins at Fort Benning, a sprawling military installation in Georgia that has been a hub for Army training since World War II. If you're about to embark on this journey, here's what you can expect from Basic Training at Army Fort Benning.

Preparation is Key

Before arriving at Fort Benning, new recruits should prepare themselves physically and mentally for the challenges ahead. This includes building endurance through regular exercise, studying the Army's core values and history, and getting enough rest. The better prepared you are, the easier the transition to Army life will be.

Red Phase: The Foundation of Basic Training

The first phase of Basic Training is known as the Red Phase, which lasts for three weeks. During this period, new recruits are introduced to the Army way of life, including its values, customs, and traditions. They will also begin to learn basic soldiering skills, such as first aid, map reading, and combat techniques.

Some of the key events during the Red Phase include:

• Receiving uniforms and equipment
• Learning Army protocol and etiquette
• Beginning physical fitness training
• Taking the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT)

White Phase: Building Skills and Endurance

The second phase of Basic Training is the White Phase, which lasts for three weeks. During this period, new recruits build on the skills they learned during the Red Phase, including marksmanship, combat techniques, and first aid.

Some of the key events during the White Phase include:

• Learning combat skills, such as hand-to-hand combat and bayonet training
• Practicing marksmanship with the M4 carbine
• Taking a field training exercise (FTX) to practice skills in a simulated combat environment

Blue Phase: Final Preparations for the Army

The final phase of Basic Training is the Blue Phase, which lasts for two weeks. During this period, new recruits prepare to graduate and join the Army as a whole. They will learn about Army history, customs, and traditions, and will also take a final APFT.

Some of the key events during the Blue Phase include:

• Learning about Army history and customs
• Taking a final APFT
• Graduating from Basic Training and becoming a soldier in the US Army

What to Expect After Basic Training

After graduating from Basic Training, new soldiers will attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT) to learn the skills needed for their specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). They will then be assigned to a unit and begin their career in the Army.

Some of the key events after Basic Training include:

• Attending AIT to learn specific MOS skills
• Being assigned to a unit and beginning Army career
• Continuing to learn and grow as a soldier in the US Army

Gallery of Fort Benning Basic Training

Fort Benning Basic Training Image Gallery

What is the average day like during Basic Training at Fort Benning?

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The average day during Basic Training at Fort Benning begins early, typically around 4:00 or 5:00 am. Recruits will participate in physical training, followed by breakfast and then a series of training events, such as classroom instruction, marksmanship training, and combat skills training.

How long does Basic Training last at Fort Benning?

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Basic Training at Fort Benning typically lasts for 10 weeks, divided into three phases: Red Phase, White Phase, and Blue Phase.

What happens after Basic Training at Fort Benning?

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After graduating from Basic Training at Fort Benning, new soldiers will attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT) to learn the skills needed for their specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). They will then be assigned to a unit and begin their career in the Army.