Fort Knox, Ky. — On the morning of July 28, 2024, many Cadets from 6th Regiment, Advanced Camp, wait outside of Waybur Theater for their families to come greet them after 35 days of constant, rigorous training.

Family Day is a milestone at Cadet Summer Training on Fort Knox, an event where Cadets can reunite with their families and friends. This special day occurs right before graduation, providing a brief but meaningful break from their training. Many Cadets cherish these moments, leaving post for lunch with their loved ones before returning in the evening.

The significance of Family Day cannot be exaggerated. For many Cadets, it is the first opportunity to reconnect with their support systems since before the start of their training. This short, precious time is filled with laughter, stories, and the comfort of familiar faces, providing a morale boost before the final push toward graduation.

Cadets, Patrick Vergona from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Scott Smith from Brigham Young University, share the significance of their families traveling across the country to support them.

Cadets can feel a deep sense of pride and appreciation when the most important people in their lives travel long distances to support them, it reinforces the importance of their achievements. Having loved ones present during such a significant milestone can strengthen their emotional resilience for the rest of their U.S. Army careers.

“Knowing my family came all this way makes me proud of myself. I feel accomplished and it’s made more important by them being here.” Vergona reflected.

Vergona also highlights the mixed emotions many Cadets feel at the end of CST. Family Day brings a dose of reality, although Cadets are eager to finish the summer, some also face the challenge of leaving behind bonds formed through life changing training events. This experience offers a glimpse of what future deployments might be like, including the difficulties of reintegrating into civilian life.

“I think everyone is feeling the same way right about now, ready for the next phase.” Smith shared moments before joining his family. 

As Cadets step off post with their families, the joy and relief is certainly noticeable. The chance to relax and share a meal underlines the importance of this day.The bond between Cadets and their loved ones is encapsulated through events like Family Day, reinforcing the support that can be crucial for their success.