Basic training, also known as Basic Military Qualification (BMQ), will teach you the core skills and knowledge to succeed in a military environment. By building inclusive teams and working together to overcome obstacles, you will build resilience and be provided with every opportunity to learn the skills necessary to be successful as you transition from a civilian to a military team member. Most importantly, you will live and work with other candidates of your platoon for nine weeks, working col

Before they train Army recruits at basic training, drill sergeants must graduate from the nine-week United States Army Drill Sergeant Academy. Insider spent a week at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, to see what it takes to become a drill sergeant. The Drill Sergeant Academy has adopted a new strategy where the old days of breaking down recruits with yelling and push-ups have been replaced with a more collaborative and respectful tone. Drill sergeant candidates are taught how to effecti