Intro
Discover the 7 US Army Basic Training locations where recruits transform into soldiers. Learn about the rigorous training programs, facilities, and instructors at Fort Benning, Fort Jackson, and more. Get insider info on boot camp, drill sergeant training, and what to expect at these elite Army bases.
The United States Army has a long history of transforming civilians into skilled soldiers through its rigorous basic training program. With multiple locations across the country, recruits can expect to face challenging environments that push them to their limits. In this article, we'll delve into the seven US Army basic training locations, highlighting their unique characteristics, training programs, and what recruits can expect during their time at each facility.
Fort Benning, Georgia
Fort Benning, located in the heart of Georgia, is one of the most iconic basic training locations in the US Army. Established in 1918, the post has a rich history of producing top-notch soldiers. Recruits attending Fort Benning can expect to undergo rigorous training, including marksmanship, first aid, and combat skills.
Fort Benning is also home to the infamous "Sand Hill" phase, a grueling five-week program that pushes recruits to their limits. During this phase, recruits will participate in obstacle courses, team-building exercises, and simulated combat scenarios.
Training Program:
- Basic Combat Training (BCT): 10 weeks
- Advanced Individual Training (AIT): varies depending on Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
Fort Jackson, South Carolina
Fort Jackson, located in Columbia, South Carolina, is the largest basic training location in the US Army. With over 50,000 recruits passing through its gates each year, Fort Jackson is a hub of activity. The post is known for its challenging training program, which focuses on developing the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the Army.
Recruits at Fort Jackson will participate in a 10-week BCT program, which includes training in marksmanship, first aid, and combat skills. The post is also home to the "Drill Sergeant Academy," where drill sergeants receive training to become the best in the business.
Training Program:
- Basic Combat Training (BCT): 10 weeks
- Advanced Individual Training (AIT): varies depending on MOS
Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri
Fort Leonard Wood, located in the Missouri Ozarks, is a major basic training location in the US Army. The post is known for its challenging terrain, which provides an ideal environment for training soldiers in engineering, military police, and chemical defense.
Recruits at Fort Leonard Wood will participate in a 10-week BCT program, which includes training in marksmanship, first aid, and combat skills. The post is also home to the "Engineer School," where soldiers receive advanced training in engineering and construction.
Training Program:
- Basic Combat Training (BCT): 10 weeks
- Advanced Individual Training (AIT): varies depending on MOS
Fort Knox, Kentucky
Fort Knox, located in central Kentucky, is a major basic training location in the US Army. The post is known for its armored training programs, which provide soldiers with the skills needed to operate and maintain armored vehicles.
Recruits at Fort Knox will participate in a 10-week BCT program, which includes training in marksmanship, first aid, and combat skills. The post is also home to the "Armor School," where soldiers receive advanced training in armored warfare.
Training Program:
- Basic Combat Training (BCT): 10 weeks
- Advanced Individual Training (AIT): varies depending on MOS
Fort Sill, Oklahoma
Fort Sill, located in southwestern Oklahoma, is a major basic training location in the US Army. The post is known for its artillery training programs, which provide soldiers with the skills needed to operate and maintain artillery systems.
Recruits at Fort Sill will participate in a 10-week BCT program, which includes training in marksmanship, first aid, and combat skills. The post is also home to the "Field Artillery School," where soldiers receive advanced training in artillery operations.
Training Program:
- Basic Combat Training (BCT): 10 weeks
- Advanced Individual Training (AIT): varies depending on MOS
Fort Bliss, Texas
Fort Bliss, located in El Paso, Texas, is a major basic training location in the US Army. The post is known for its challenging desert environment, which provides an ideal setting for training soldiers in desert warfare.
Recruits at Fort Bliss will participate in a 10-week BCT program, which includes training in marksmanship, first aid, and combat skills. The post is also home to the "Air Defense Artillery School," where soldiers receive advanced training in air defense operations.
Training Program:
- Basic Combat Training (BCT): 10 weeks
- Advanced Individual Training (AIT): varies depending on MOS
Fort Gordon, Georgia
Fort Gordon, located in central Georgia, is a major basic training location in the US Army. The post is known for its signal corps training programs, which provide soldiers with the skills needed to operate and maintain communication systems.
Recruits at Fort Gordon will participate in a 10-week BCT program, which includes training in marksmanship, first aid, and combat skills. The post is also home to the "Signal Corps School," where soldiers receive advanced training in communication operations.
Training Program:
- Basic Combat Training (BCT): 10 weeks
- Advanced Individual Training (AIT): varies depending on MOS
US Army Basic Training Image Gallery
Whether you're a new recruit or a seasoned soldier, US Army basic training is an experience you'll never forget. With its rigorous training programs, challenging environments, and expert instructors, the US Army is dedicated to producing the best soldiers in the world.