FORT KNOX Ky. – Cadets from the 8th Regiment, Advanced Camp, completed the Situational Training Exercise at Fort Knox, Ky., July 23, 2023.

STX is an event that focuses on squad communication and tactics in a combat-like setting to qualify and become future U.S. Army leaders. Multiple scenarios test Cadets on their ability to work as a team and carry out their responsibilities in a timely manner.

Cadet Trey Crow, from Harding University, shares his thoughts about the process of the STX.

“It just helps you to learn teamwork with the new group of soldiers that you have just been introduced to,” Crow stated. “When you are put into a position where you start running missions, there is stress and little sleep from being on fireguard the previous night, but you can rely on the family you’ve built around you.”

Cadets engage in a simulated scenario where they must defend or attack against an enemy while in position. Much like an actual recon mission, Cadets hold their positions, remain alert, and provide security around their leaders.

“When you’re pulling security on the line, you must ensure that others are providing security and making sure that they aren’t falling asleep or endangering other soldiers,” Crow said. “This builds team cohesion, and it really helps to show if you can be a leader or not.”

Cadets are graded based on their effectiveness when making decisions during this training. Everyone remains attentive and in position until they are told to move to another location.

“After being graded for my PL lane, I got an E just for having personal tact, humility, and really connecting with the soldiers,” Crow said. “I think that this STX has really allowed me to get closer with my teammates and become a better leader.”

Cadet Crow also shares why he was interested in the Army Reserves Officers’ Training Corps.

“I enlisted back in 11^th grade because my recruiter called me and explained to me the benefits of joining my family and myself,” stated Crow. “After joining ROTC and enlisting, it really inspired me that I could be a leader, and my grandfather who pushed me, as he was prior service, saw those leadership qualities in use.”

The Army ROTC focuses on improving new Cadets and building on their overall skills in multiple facilities. The STX is one of several training events that assist in forming these important leadership qualities.

“This event helps you build character, and you will come out of it a different person,” Crow said. “You’re always growing in this program, and you’ll be better than yourself yesterday, tomorrow, and the day before.”