FORT KNOX, Ky. ─ The gravel shifted beneath Cadets, assigned to 2nd Regiment, Basic Camp, as they adjusted the weapons against their shoulders during the U.S. Weapons Demo at the Steeles Range on Fort Knox, Ky., July 20, 2025.

The U.S. Weapons Demo introduces Cadets to the M110 rifle, M240 machine gun, M2 .50-caliber machine gun and M320 grenade launcher, each commonly used in the U.S. Army.

For Cadet Khyle Richards, East Carolina University, it is not just the gravel that is shifting, it’s his life goals.

Richards switched from nursing to computer science after discovering he was not a fan of blood. Since his time at Cadet Summer Training, he has contemplated where the Army will take him.

“I was thinking active duty, but as I’ve learned more about the ROTC program and the other things we can do, the more I’m leaning towards reserves,” Richards said.

At CST, Richards acquired the nickname ‘Unc’ due to him being an older Cadet. He doesn’t take their light teasing to heart.

“It doesn’t matter what age you start,” he said. “It’s a good opportunity, especially as you come when you’re older, as you’ll come with some life experience.”

It was the job opportunities and the words of encouragement from his father that drew Richards to join ROTC.

“I was very skeptical at first, but as I learned more about the program, I (realized) it was a great way to find a lot of opportunities,” he said. “They teach you skills that can transfer to the real world. They have good insurance too.”

As he has stepped into leadership roles, Richards acknowledges the importance of teamwork and confidence.

“Confidence comes not only from experience, but from knowing what you’re doing,” Richards said. “Be willing to be led and push yourself.”

For Cadet Nathaniel Hulsizer, University of Arkansas, it was less about the opportunities and more about continuing the family tradition.

Hulsizer’s grandfather was a radio operator in the Marines who died when Hulsizer was 12.

“I’ve just been trying to live up to his example and just be a good soldier,” Hulsizer said.

While some Cadets worry about the obstacles and challenges presented during CST, Hulsizer brings the perspective ‘life is too short to be afraid to take risks.’

“People are worried about all the stuff we do here, you just got to get out there and do it,” he said. “I want to walk away with the confidence and readiness to tackle the challenges.”

Hulsizer hopes to get a law degree and is considering branching into field artillery.

“You know, a lot of people tell me what I want to do is something you can only do in the Army,” he said. “You can’t really shoot a cannon outside here.”

Despite having different plans and life goals, both Richards and Hulsizer are keeping their weapons and plans steady.