Recruit Sustainment Program Trains New Recruits

Photo By Staff Sgt. David Strayer | Soldiers from the Pennsylvania National Guard's Recruit Sustainm, Detatchment 4, are led in physical training by Drill Sergeant Edward Zink at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., March 7.  

FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, PA, UNITED STATES

03.07.2010

Story by Spc. Coltin Heller 

109th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. — Before leaving for basic training many soldiers who join the Pennsylvania Army National Guard drill with the Recruit Sustainment Program, which gives the new recruits a head start on the training they will receive when they leave.

"It's not what I expected," says Pvt. Cliff Parsons, who was surprised at the quality of the training. "The training between the classroom and the field was balanced out well."

Parsons, at the age of 30, is currently the oldest person in his Recruit Sustainment Detachment. He joined the National Guard for an adventure and to see where it might lead him. "I wanted to do something different and worthwhile. This was really the best choice for me," said Parsons.

The weekend for Parsons and the other soldiers drilling with him consists of a classroom portion on how to properly secure and search a detainee or enemy prisoner of war that lasted the morning. After lunch the soldiers were given instruction on driving the High Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicle and then applied the instructions as they drove them. Physical training was conducted on both mornings, readying them for the road marches and other physical activities that are common at basic training.

Many classes are given by the RSD to enhance the soldiers' readiness for basic training. Drill and Ceremony is standard for all first time soldiers at RSD. Other basic skills such as customs and courtesies, the phonetic alphabet, first aid and how to properly break down and clean the M16 are some of the many skills taught.

For his basic training Parsons will be going to Fort Jackson, S.C., after which he will receive training to be qualified as a light wheel vehicle mechanic. Parsons is unsure of what position he wants to take, but he is sure of one thing.

The training is also open for future soldiers, as visitors are welcome to attend the training, experiencing how Army training actually is conducted. Ryan Topper is one such person.

"I always wanted to be in the Army," says Topper. He is looking forward to April when he turns 17, at which time he is planning to enlist in the Army. "I like the classes and the physical training is a big help," he said.

"I just wanted to join and do my part, you know? I want to do my duty," Topper says.

• Date Taken: 03.07.2010
• Date Posted: 03.09.2010 17:16
• Story ID: 46410
• Location: FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, PA, US