FORT KNOX, Ky. – As 4th Regiment, Advanced Camp, Cadets complete Preliminary Marksmanship Instruction, platoon leaders, platoon sergeants and squad leaders are aiming to lead their fellow Cadets by example.

PMI is broken into four stations that teach Cadets the fundamental operations of their weapon system, and how to use it effectively. While at PMI, Cadets learn the parts of their weapon and how they operate, the many firing positions they will need to be proficient in to pass qualification with their M4 Carbine, and practice essential weapon mechanics such as reloading and clearing malfunctions.

“PMI is important because as 21st Century leaders, we need to ensure that we are upholding the standards that we’re expecting from our platoon,” said Cadet Nicholas Feher, Virginia Military Institute. “Ensuring that we can be just as lethal, if necessary, as we’re expecting our (future) platoons to be.”

As a squad leader, Feher is fostering a supportive environment, using his prior experience and training to help the Cadets in his squad practice in areas where they need more experience.

“I’ve already approached (my squad) and told them that if they need any help or assistance with the fundamentals, I’m more than happy to help,” said Feher.

Similarly to Feher, Cadet Hailey Puccinelli, Texas Tech University, is a platoon sergeant that leads her platoon by example, keeping a positive attitude that resonates throughout the Cadets.

“I have to keep a positive mentality and a positive attitude so that the rest of the platoon echoes and mimics that,” said Puccinelli. “I love calling cadences, getting my platoon motivated and keeping that positive energy.”

Working towards commissioning as an officer, Puccinelli is keeping her family tradition of military leadership alive, following in the footsteps of her great-great-grandfather, Medal of Honor recipient, Brig. Gen. Oscar Fitzalan Long.

Long was awarded the Medal of Honor during his time as a second lieutenant with the 5th Infantry Regiment, for assuming command of a cavalry troop after finding both of its officers killed in action. He voluntarily assumed command while under heavy fire and advanced the troop to its proper position.

Puccinelli, inspired by Long’s action of selfless service, joined Army ROTC and wants to follow in his footsteps to “do great things for the country.”

“I just want to become a great leader,” said Puccinelli. “We interact with a lot of different Cadets from different schools here, and not only being able to help them with my experiences but learn from their experiences to improve myself as a leader.”