Soldier Life > Becoming a Soldier > Basic Combat Training
Overview
Becoming a Soldier
Working with a Recruiter
Basic Combat Training
introduction
Phase 1 Red
Phase 2 White
Phase 3 Blue
graduation
extras
Advanced Individual Training
Being a Soldier
Fitness Nutrition
Army Families
A Soldiers Future
CHECK OUT THE ARMY PT DRILLS Photo of Soldiers doing PT

Interested in learning the physical training drills the Army uses? Check out the interactive Physical Training (PT) Guide and then download the PDF version for your use.

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FOR PARENTS

Wondering if the Army is a good option for your son or daughter? The Army can provide direction, career opportunities and a steady income.

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ARE YOU ARMY STRONG Photo of sniper

See what it takes to be a Soldier in the U.S. Army.

Find Your Strength
Photo of US Army soldier Phase 1 - Red
OVERVEIW

The Army makes sure every recruit is physically and mentally prepared to start Basic Training. Upon determining this, recruits are given a haircut, issued Army uniforms and are ready to start training.

RED PHASE SCHEDULE:
  • Recruits arrive for general orientation and are issued haircuts and Army uniforms.
  • Basic Tactical training begins followed by Nuclear Biological and Chemical Defense, Landmine Defense and rappelling at the confidence tower.
  • Recruits learn about Army heritage and the Seven Army Core Values
  • Recruits undergo the Army Physical Fitness Test to help determine their physical aptitude. This test is routinely administered to Soldiers throughout their enlistment periods to ensure their top physical condition.
FALLING IN

Army Soldiers

In week 1, you basically start out with a whole bunch of people you probably wouldn't have met in your life – from New York City to California to Illinois.

Army Soldiers

Everybody comes from different backgrounds.

Registration

When we first get here, there's a week of reception. And reception isn't really basic training; it's just getting all the paperwork in order, getting your shots and all of that

Soldiers at registration

During Red phase we're under control of these Soldiers at all times. There is a drill sergeant right behind them at all times.

Close up of Army Soldier

But once they grasp the concept that the Drill Sergeant is there for them. That we're there to help them out and see them graduate, and they feel that we really care about them, you start to see a change and you start to see them get more motivated because by that time we starting to do a lot – fun events are going on they're working together as a team better.

Army Soldiers

Once you realize the only way you're going to get through is by working together, and the drill sergeants put that into you, things start going a lot smoother. That's probably the neatest part.

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