Army Basic Training
Often referred to as boot camp, army basic training is the first level of instruction for newly enlisted army recruits. During this training recruits are introduced to both the physical and mental aspects of military life and tested every step of the way. They learn to function as part of a team and are introduced to the guiding principles that soldiers must apply to their daily conduct and decision making. Throughout basic training recruits live on an army base or in the field and are generally cut off from their families and the outside world until the training is complete.
Prior to taking part in basic training, those interested in joining the army must pass a series of tests that will take into account their education, physical fitness, aptitude for army life, personality, and current medical condition. Most countries require that applicants also have citizenship in the country where they are applying and meet a specific age requirement. Other preconditions such as a disclosure of any past homosexual conduct or the applicant's current dependency status also apply in some situations. To find out what the exact requirements are for your country contact a local military recruiting office or visit your government's recruitment website.
For those who pass the initial entrance tests the next step is to determine which branch of the military they want to join, what kind of work they'd like to do and how long they want their military term to last. A recruitment officer usually meets with successful applicants to help them understand their options and finalize their military career goals. All recruits take part in the same basic training program regardless of whether their end goal is to join the Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Army, Navy or Airforce.
Boot camp is selected for new recruits by military personnel so there is no option of choosing the one closest to home or that you've heard has the best reputation. In Canada all basic training takes place at the Canadian Forces Recruit School in St. Jean, Quebec., while in the U.S. there are five training facilities spread out across the country. Prior to attending basic training applicants will receive a list of supplies they need to bring to the training. New recruits are expected to pack light, usually only bringing one or two sets of civilian clothes and very few personal belongings. Supplies such as prescription medications and eye glasses are provided by the military as are uniforms, boots, sleep wear and weapons.
Although military training styles and activities will vary from country to country, recruits in Canada and the U.S. spend about 9 to 10 weeks in basic training. While the first week is spent filling out paperwork and receiving supplies, soldiers also exercise daily. Over the following weeks they are introduced to every aspect of military life. This will include activities such as maintaining one's appearance and living space, learning safety skills such as CPR and First Aid, surviving life outdoors in harsh conditions, sharing responsibilities and functioning as part of a cohesive group. Newly recruited soldiers also practice numerous drills and become familiar with the maintenance and use of various weapons, vehicles and other machinery.