FORT KNOX, Ky. – Cadets from 5th Regiment Advanced camp tackled the weapons qualification on the Pells Range at Fort Knox, Ky., June 28, 2023.

The weapons qualification challenged Cadets to use the knowledge and training they have received over the last few days to show off their shooting abilities to hit targets at various distances.
Cadet Terrence Bryant, Florida A&M University, shared his experience during weapons qualification.

“I’m not a stranger behind a gun; I’ve definitely been practicing my shooting,” Bryant said. “I know I made a few mistakes, but I was able to come on top of it and I’m very happy about that.”

Bryant joined the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps because he wanted to continue his family’s military legacy. He is also utilizing this opportunity to pursue a good education and gain new knowledge.

“I’m looking forward to this experience,” Bryant said. “I’d like to get to know my teammates from my platoon because we work together, we will strive together, and we will win together.”

Cadet Olaris Castrorosa, University of North Florida, has had previous experience in the military.

Castrorosa first joined the military as a single mom when she was 17 years old in hopes of establishing a better life for her 2-year-old son. After serving in the military as a petroleum supply specialist, she decided to pursue a career as an Army officer.

“I’ve been prior service for about six years now, and I’m just trying to get onto the other side of the spectrum,” Castrorosa said. “I was nervous entering [the military] but once I got into it, I’ve realized that it’s just a big family,”

Castrorosa hopes to earn a position in the military police branch. With hopes of continuing her military service while developing new leaders.

“Even if you think that the military is not for you, if you ever feel like you need a place to belong and a family to belong to, the Army’s arms are always open,” Castrorosa said.