FORT KNOX, Ky. – The harsh sound of clicks fills the air as cadets, assigned to 1st Regiment, Basic Camp, learn about their weapons during Preliminary Marksmanship Instruction (PMI) during Cadet Summer Training (CST).

PMI helps cadets grow more comfortable with their M4 Carbine Assault Rifles through detailed instruction, repetition, and the opportunity to ask cadre questions.

Cadet Jacob Raider, Wofford University, went through training today, learning how to handle weapon jams, assemble and clean his rifle, and practice good firing positions to ensure success for their future in the Army.

Coming to CST, Raider did as much as possible to prepare for the challenge the summer brings, one of those things was consistently playing tennis for nine years of his life.

Starting in middle school, tennis taught him at a young age the importance of a good work ethic and commitment to betterment through physical conditioning. To this day, he still competes on his college tennis team.

“[We do a] Bunch of sprints, reps on the assault bike, burpees. I mean tons of planks, pushups, suicides, all that stuff. A lot of repetition,” Raider explained.

Working hard year after year, tennis prepared him physically for everything CST has to offer. Tennis wasn’t only physical, but also a mental challenge for Raider.

Through the struggle, he learned the importance of teamwork and getting to know the people around him, something that he would also apply to his platoon this summer.

Raider hopes to prepare and get as many repetitions in as possible to face the upcoming fear of Rappel Training that lies ahead.

“I want to face my fear of heights. Doing that will give me some more confidence to do other stuff [throughout the summer],” Raider said.

With facing that fear, Raider hopes that the momentum will continue throughout the summer, allowing him to pass through Basic Camp and take all he’s learned back home.

Before any challenge Basic Camp provides, Raider thinks back to a big mentor in his life, his father.

Leading by example, Raider’s dad worked faithfully at a job for 26 years, staying determined and intentional along every step of the way. It’s his father’s advice that keeps him motivated and focused during the difficult moments.

“Just be forward thinking,” Raider said.