FORT KNOX, Kentucky – Cadets with 8th Regiment, Advanced Camp, arrive at the Group and Zero range to practice their marksmanship in preparation for their upcoming qualifications. Having previously completed their Preliminary Marksmanship Instruction and Engagement Skills Trainer events, the Cadets are prepared to take this next step for Cadet Summer Training.

For the grouping aspect of this exercise, Cadets shoot at a target five times, aiming to hit the center of their targets in a tight cluster. They repeat this process until they have a tight grouping in the center of the target. After evaluating their clusters, Cadets zero their M4-Carbine rifles from 25 meters away. Zeroing their M4-Carbine rifles entails adjusting the sights to ensure their shot lines up with the intended point of impact. Zeroing from this distance ensures Cadets can effectively hit the targets from 25 to 300 meters away. 

This application of this exercise extends into the rest of their time at Cadet Summer Training, as Cadet Sera Zell from Mississippi State University explains. “Anytime you shoot any weapon, you’re going to group and zero. For the rest of the advanced camp your weapon will sit at these adjustments.”

Zell’s way to the range began as an observer, a public affairs intern for the Mississippi State University Army ROTC program. Typically assigned to a Cadet, the position was opened up to other students, an opening that Zell took a hold of. Zell reflects on the experience. “I thought it was cool. So I did it. I saw everyone doing all this stuff at the range and in the field, and I thought it was awesome. So I decided to go ahead and join the program.”

Coming into the military from that background gave Zell a more detailed perspective on how Public Affairs serves as an asset, removing the mystery and showing the people behind the uniform. Zell has a desire to branch aviation as an officer in the National Guard but plans to continue her work in public affairs for her civilian career.

Though it may seem that training like grouping and zeroing only pertains to Cadets looking to branch infantry, being efficient with your M4 is important for everyone who wears the uniform. Zell emphasizes how it applies to every career a Cadet may branch into.

Staying collected within those situations is an essential skill for an effective leader. “Your soldiers are always going to be in high stress situations and so are you. You’re always going to need to perform”.

As the Cadets of 8th Regiment, Advanced Camp finish up their lanes, spirits are high. Cadets exchange advice walking into line to drop off their ammunition. The next and final step in their marksmanship training will be their M4 Qualifications. The preparation from this exercise has them collected and ready to perform.