Training Phase 2 of 4

My folks and I enjoyed a few days together driving from DC down here to Columbia, SC. The weather has been exceptional and our day in Charleston was very much enjoyed. All good things come to an end as Mom and Dad had to deliver me to Combat Skills training this morning.

I'm checked into Ft McCrady - the National Guard training annex of Ft Jackson. A very typical Army day...hurry up and wait for administrative in-processing and then sound off every 5 minutes or less with "Hooah". It's an Army phrase that can be adapted to everything from "yes, I understand" to "knock off your meaningless drivel and sit down". To the Army's defense, the food has been better than advertised. Thankfully, we are being treated as adults and not 18 year olds who need their spirits broken for team unity. There are 57 drill instructors with 10+ years each experience as a drill instructor and combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan. We are in good hands and should learn a lot. Tomorrow starts at 4:45am for breakfast and then transportation to the clothing and equipment issue location for new Army Combat Uniforms (ACU's) and about 60-90lbs of armor, weapons (M16 & 9mm) and gear that we are required to wear all day, everyday.