What is the Length of Time for Basic Training in the Army?

Basic Combat Training changes civilians into soldiers.

Basic Combat Training (BCT) is the initial Army training process that turns civilians into soldiers. It generally takes nine weeks, depending on the length of in-processing. (In-processing is the phase in which the recruit's administrative records are created, and the recruit receives medical and dental screenings and briefings about military issues like the G.I. Bill and the Uniform Code of Military Justice.) BCT is broken into three phases: Red, White and Blue.

Red Phase

This phase includes the in-processing segment (shots, uniform issue, so on) and can last between one and two weeks. Recruits will also meet their drill instructors and learn the basics of marching, military courtesy, and maintaining a bunk. Red Phase also marks the beginning of classroom instruction (Army values, history, sexual harassment, so on).

White Phase

During White Phase, recruits start marksmanship training with M-16 rifles. They also work in teams to complete the Warrior Tower exercise, which culminates in rappelling from a 40-foot-tall platform.

Blue Phase

Recruits finish their rifle qualifications and participate in the Night Infiltration Course (NIC) in Blue Phase. This exercise requires recruits to work in small units to achieve tactical objectives such as securing areas or moving through obstacles while a .50-caliber machine gun is firing overhead. After NIC, the drill instructors light a bonfire and perform the "Rites of Passage," after which the recruits are allowed to call themselves soldiers.

Graduation

At the end of nine weeks, new solders are recognized by their drill instructors and commanding officers. Families are encouraged to share in the occasion.

Advanced Individual Training

Basic Combat Training may stop after nine weeks, but the education of the soldier goes on. After BCT, soldiers head to Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in order learn skills needed for their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).

References

• Goarmy.com: Basic Combat Training
• Goarmy.com: Basic Combat Training- Falling In
• Goarmy.com: Basic Combat Training- Learning to Fire

Resources

• Goarmy.com: Basic Combat Training- Conquering the Tower
• Goarmy.com: Basic Combat Training- Moving Through the Night
• Goarmy.com: Graduation