FORT KNOX-Ky.-With steady breaths and firm stances, Cadets from 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, are focused on their Preliminary Marksmanship Instruction training.

“We’re learning about the fundamentals of handling weapons, focusing on our breathing and trigger control,” said Cadet Una Haines, Pittsburgh University, “All the basic lessons before we actually go out there (to qualification).”

PMI is one of the first events that allows Cadets the opportunity to practice handling their M4 carbines, various firing positions, how to quickly unload and reload, calibrate sights, and safely clear malfunctions before they enter a real range for qualifications.

Some Cadets have had prior experience on ranges, while others are new to the experience, but PMI gives all Cadets the chance to enter qualifications with equal knowledge and ability.

Cadet Aiden Rideau, Marion Military Institute, shares that for those with little experience, it’s crucial to pay attention to everything when it comes to the range, “The minor details are very important.”

Cadet Kyle Rex, Texas A&M University, walked away from the training with one piece of advice stuck in his mind, “If you can keep yourself consistent, composed and aligned, then you’re going to hit the target every time.”

For Cadet Elizabeth Fisher, University of West Florida, the training was a fun challenge mentally, “(PMI) does require a lot of patience and a lot of learning.”

Some Cadets found the PMI to help them develop skills beyond the practical which they can apply to their future Army careers. Cadet Josey Arbogast’s, Coastal Carolina University, goal is to work with the military police, “I like holding the standards of the Army values.”

Arbogast finds that PMI can teach her more than just how to unload and load her weapon, “(In my career), it can help me learn not to be frustrated and more resilient.”

Regardless of their prior understanding or differing goals, Cadets left the PMI feeling more confident and ready for the challenges ahead during CST and beyond.