2nd BCT Paratroopers Conduct Expert Infantry Badge Testing

FORT BRAGG, NC, UNITED STATES

08.31.2018

Story by Spc. Ryan C Mercado 

82nd Airborne Division Public Affairs Office

The paratroopers trained for two and a half weeks before being tested in a five-day span.
For paratroopers participating in EIB testing, the skills and tasks that are presented are critical to real world operations within a war zone.
The candidates are tested on a variety on skills ranging from combat care, operation of weapons platforms, to nuclear and biological prevention and decontamination.
“It means being an expert at your profession and that you’re willing to put forth the effort required to accomplish the task,” said 1st Lt. Christian Ostrowski a paratrooper in 2nd Brigade Combat Team. “Put the effort in and get as many reps in as possible.”
Testing for the EIB is voluntary and some believe this shows the commitment and drive the paratroopers have to proving professionalism in their career field.
“As a Lieutenant it means setting the example for our soldiers,” said 1st Lt. Jake Semerar a paratrooper in 2nd Brigade Combat Team. “Showing them that you can lead them from the front and that they should expect us to be competent as leaders, by setting the example and doing the right thing for them. All it is, is just applying yourself and if you want it bad enough you’ll get it
The Paratroopers and soldiers who pass all of the testing will be awarded the coveted EIB badge which is worn on the left side of the uniform above the United States Army name tape. Once achieved, the awardee has demonstrated that they are technically and tactically proficient.
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• Date Taken: 08.31.2018
• Date Posted: 09.04.2018 14:05
• Story ID: 291346
• Location: FORT BRAGG, NC, US