FORT KNOX, Kentucky – Cadets with 6th Regiment, Advanced Camp, completed their Field Leader Reaction Course on Fort Knox, Ky., July 6, 2024. Teams navigate various obstacles to complete specific missions under a 20 minute time limit. FLRC training builds teamwork among Cadets and challenges their critical thinking skills. 

Cadet Gabriel Britt, Texas State University, enjoyed the opportunity to bond with his squad and understand their strengths and weaknesses. 

“I learned how we act under stress,” Britt said. “Me and my buddy are headstrong, we want to get into it even if it’s a mess. We have a couple guys that like to stick back and look at the bigger situation, and actually understand what’s going on.”

Conversely, Cadet Nayir Acosta, University of Illinois, Chicago, considers himself a soft-spoken leader. During FLRC training, Acosta remained positive and willing to attack problems with creative solutions. 

“I like to see my team happy,” Acosta said. “The biggest role I play in any team is a morale booster.”

Acosta hopes to branch into medical service with the goal of becoming a dentist for the Army. His strategies during FLRC displayed empathy and optimism, skills necessary for his future profession.

“I think it’s important to understand there are many views, there’s not just one solution, ” Acosta said. “I’m really good at hearing people out.” 

With field training exercises still on the horizon for 6th Regiment, Advanced Camp, understanding the dynamics of each squad member is crucial to accomplishing their goals. FRLC allows Cadets to build upon the leadership styles of one another to best fit the needs of the group. For Britt, he will take what he learned to become a better teammate. 

“I’m going to try to implement a better way to get them unstressed,” Britt said. “But, they’re all good leaders, all good people.”

Britt grew up in a military family, often moving to different bases for his parents’ work. Living in Florida, North Carolina, Indiana and now Texas, he has come in contact with different people from all walks of life. CST, and training like the FLRC course, gives Britt the opportunity to develop that skill. 

“What I want to learn is, am I going to be able to go to a random duty station and work well with people I’ve never met before?” Britt said. 

Understanding how to work with people from all different backgrounds extends outside of CST. The ability to work together to accomplish their goals will serve Cadets well throughout their Army career.