Transcript Fall LTX

WHO: Cadet Aaron Andrews
WHAT: Fall Leadership Training Exercise
WHEN: 17SEP-20SEP2015
WHERE: Camp Guernsey, Wyoming
SUMMARY: For many Cadets, Fall LTX was their first introduction to Army field
training. This was also a chance for them to hone their skills and apply them in a
field environment. All Cadets attended this training, and each class had a
different role. Cadets got hands on training with the M16A2 assault rifle, had the
chance to build camaraderie while completing an obstacle course, conducted
and learned about land navigation, and participated in squad tactical exercises
(STX).
When Cadets arrived at Camp Guernsey they put their personal items in the
barracks and proceeded to the obstacle course. The obstacle course consisted
of several team building events to include rope climbing, low crawling under
barbed wire, and overcoming any fear of heights. Once each squad completed
the course, the best squad from each platoon competed to be the best in the
battalion.
The next day consisted of multiple training events to include first aid, map
reading, and safe handling of the M16A2. Cadets then had a chance to practice
what they learned at the range; they fired at a 25m target where they grouped
their shots. Following the range was land navigation, where they applied skills
learned earlier in the day. MSIs were grouped with MSIIs, and MSIIIs were
tested on what they learned since they became a part of the Cowboy Battalion.
The peak of the weekend was STX lanes. MSIIIs were graded on their
decision making ability and critical thinking skills throughout each mission.
MSIIs were integrated into the squads where they demonstrated their abilities to
lead a team. MSIs built upon their knowledge of individual movement
techniques (IMTs) and observed lanes from a vantage point. This guaranteed
for maximum success upon being mixed in with the MSIIs and MSIIIs during later
labs. The day ended with rifle cleaning, Battalion bonding, and eating pizza.
Fall LTX was a challenging, yet rewarding experience for each Cadet involved.