FORT KNOX, Ky. –Cadets arrived at Preliminary Marksmanship Instruction, chanting cadences and carrying M4 carbines. Split into four stations, Cadets assigned to 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp mastered their weapons on June 8, 2025.

Preliminary Marksmanship Instruction is training presented by expert Cadre from the Army Marksmanship Unit. These Soldiers are hand-selected to teach the Cadets with varying levels of experience. Throughout PMI, Cadets must become familiar with the distance between themselves and the enemy, but most importantly, their weapon.

“Me and my weapon are best friends,” said Cadet Roszaria Simmons, Hampton University. “I’m always with my weapon because what I’ve been taught, especially at Basic Camp last year, is not to be afraid of it. When you don’t have experience with something usually the first feeling is fear, said Simmons”.

Simmons explained she is focusing on improving her aim, breath and nailing the timing of the M4 carbine. Serving as a platoon sergeant for Charlie Company, Simmons believes in keeping the spirits of her group high, elevating them through the challenges of the summer, and the principle of accountability.

“We’re so good together that we can be accountable for each other,” said Simmons. “So, if one of my battles leave their weapon, I’m already picking it up, said Simmons.” If my roomie is in the room, and they left their weapon…I’m staying in the room until they get back.”

A working knowledge of the M4 will not only boost your own scores, but it may help those around you.

Cadet Axel Soto, University of Rio- Piedras, Puerto Rico, is an active-duty Soldier of over eight years, a 92R Parachute Rigger who found his foundation in the Army while stationed in Italy. He brings a wealth of knowledge from his time as a Solider.

Soto explained how he sought the guidance of mentors, cementing the lessons into his memory. Today, while applying these lessons, he uses his opportunity to teach others.

“After they’re done, if they’re having trouble on the line, I take them out to the side and give them a step by step,” said Soto.

Despite differences in skill levels of Cadets, CST gives Cadets opportunities to grow.

“I came to Advanced Camp a little nervous because in my head I wasn’t the best Cadet I wanted to be,” said Simmons. “I felt as though I lacked a lot when it came to experience and when it came to confidence, but I’m learning that ‘No weapon formed against me shall prosper’.”