Fort Knox, Ky. – A peppery burn clouded the lungs of Cadets, assigned to 2nd Regiment, Advanced Camp, as they endured tear gas in the confidence chamber on June 21, 2025.

They completed chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear training 19 days before Family Day, where they will see their loved ones for the first time since leaving for Advanced Camp.

For some, the thought of family has helped them face the daily challenges of Cadet Summer Training.

Cadet Jackson Barrie, California State University, San Marcos, Charlie Company, 2nd Regiment, Advanced Camp, has a father, mother and brother that all served in the military.

Both of his parents were aviation pilots and met at Fort Hood, Tx. Seeing their success has influenced him to do the same.

Barrie has always been enthusiastic about planes and aviation.

“I feel like it’d be fun to do something I’m passionate about and get paid for it,” said Barrie. “I have always been scared of heights, so I also want to tackle that fear.”

After graduating from CST, his next step is flight school after which he plans to earn rank as a captain and pursue logistics.

“You’re leading more in that position, and I feel like I have fun with that,” said Barrie.

Barrie’s dad recently retired as an Army major general. Seeing his father reach such heights as a leader has inspired him to do the same.

“My dad was a big mentor for me, and taught me everything I know,” said Barrie. “It was cool seeing him talk at big conferences and having people pay attention to him.”

Barrie is grateful to his father not just for inspiring him but for going the extra length to support him as he pushes to achieve his goals.

“My dad drove my beat-up car from Alabama to California just so I could have a car out there,” said Barrie. “They’ve put so much work into getting me to this exact spot.”

He continues to remember his family as a powerful force getting him through CST.

“I just think about them the whole time that I am here,” said Barrie.

Cadets are challenged every day throughout CST. The confidence chamber is no different, they must rely on their training and mental tenacity to push through the thirty seconds of tear gas.

In each struggle, Barrie applies the lessons taught by his father as he aims to fill the same shoes as him.

“You have to be loud and proud,” said Barrie. “Even if it’s a rough day, be confident about what you are doing.”

Through confidence, inspiration and gratitude, Barrie continues to hit the same strides as those before him.