Mentally exhausted, physically fatigued and spiritually worn Cadets with 1st Regiment, Advanced Camp, marched over Agony Hill as the sun rose behind them. The foggy morning shifted into a humid desert as they transitioned from the six-mile battle march and shoot to the hand grenade assault course on Fort Knox, Ky.
The hand grenade assault course is a test that grades Cadets on their ability to safely throw a grenade and hit a target. Each lane consists of seven tasks requiring Cadets to navigate various obstacles while engaging targets by throwing M69 practice grenades from five different positions.
The heat seeped through their uniforms and sweat trickled down their faces while they persevered through the course.
One of Helen Kellers famous quotes speaks volumes as the Cadets continue through training, “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”
Cadet Kody Gums, Prairie View A&M University, completed the six-mile BMS in just over one hour but struggled with the HGAC. This small setback did not dampen his spirit. In the upcoming training, he plans to use this lesson to motivate future success.
“I know failure is nothing but growth,” said Gums. “So, if I do fail, I know I’ll only get better from this.”
Gums joined the National Guard at 17-years-old in 2018 without realizing he was committing to the Army. He completed his undergraduate degree in civil engineering and is currently working on his master’s degree.
Although most of the Cadets’ training is independent, they are stronger when they work together. Gums ran the entirety of the six-mile march with another Cadet, creating an unbreakable bond. Through intense challenges, Cadets are learning to lean on each other.
“One thing I love about the military is you can bond with so many people,” said Gums. “You can meet some amazing people that really try to make a change and do good in their life.”
Cadet Maya Franciso, Purdue University, also struggled with the HGAC, but didn’t let it affect her. She continued to cheer on and encourage others. She celebrated the wins and learned from the losses.
“Everyone gets along so well,” said Franciso. “Honestly, that made CST 10 times better.”
Cadets are almost certain to face adversity at some point during CST training. Having peers to cheer them on during success and others to pick them up during struggle become the motivation to realizing their goals to becoming future Army officers.
About the Author: Meghan Sawitzke
