THE NINE-WEEK JOURNEY FROM CIVILIAN TO SOLDIER

Basic Combat Training (BCT) is a nine-week training course (not including the "Reception" week) where recruits go through the process of becoming full-fledged Soldiers. Throughout the process, you will learn new rules, learn to trust yourself and understand what it means to be a Soldier in the Army National Guard.

Things to know BEFORE you get to Basic Training:

• Ranks and Insignias
• The 7 Army Core Values
• The Soldier's Creed
• General Orders
• Do's and Don'ts about Basic Training
• The Army Alphabet, courtesy of GoArmy.com
• Other useful information

		Week 00: Reception - This is where your civilian life becomes part of the Army world—from bidding farewell to family to getting your Army haircut to making sure you're physically fit.
		Week 01: Fall In - Once Reception Week completes, it's now time to understand new rules, regulations and processes involved in being in the Army. Classroom instruction begins.
		Week 02: Direction - Leaving the classroom for the field, it's time to test your physical and mental endurance, and also get trained in First Aid and map reading.
		Week 03: Endurance - One thing you'll realize in Week 03 is to believe in the mantra: mind over matter. Physical and mental challenges build as you start simulated combat drills.
		Week 04: Marksanship - Learning to shoot a rifle is more than pulling the trigger. Marksmanship courses teach new recruits not only the proper way to hold a weapon, but also how to breathe and stand while firing are equally important.
		Week 05: Trials - This is where the previous weeks' work pays off: tests in endurance and marksmanship await all recruits.
		Week 06: Camaraderie - Each recruit is only as strong as his platoon. During Week 06, bonds are tested and trust exercises implemented.
		Week 07: Confidence - Hand grenade training; live fire exercises; foot marching; and overall physical fitness are tested in the Confidence Course.
		Week 08: Victory Forge - It's time to put everything you've learned up to this point to the real test: a three-day field retreat to Victory Forge.
		Week 09: Graduation - All your hard work has led you to this day. Family and friends eagerly await to see you complete your Basic Training course.

Contact a recruiter to learn more about all the valuable educational opportunities, and all the other excellent benefits in the Army National Guard.