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Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, prepare to occupy their checkpoints during a land navigation portion of the Cadet Summer Training July 12, 2015, at Fort Knox, Ky. (Photo by Cody Graves)
By Staff Sgt. Chris Whitehead
2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division
FORT KNOX, Ky. — Soldiers from 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, taught the vital soldiering skill of land navigation during the Cadet Summer Training program July 12-31, 2015.
These Soldiers were responsible for training cadets on the importance of map reading, terrain association, pace counts and proper use of a compass.
“Land navigation is a fundamental of leadership. It is essential to lead with confidence so there is no question or hesitation to those following you,” said Master Sgt. Corey Oliver, NCO in charge of the land navigation committee (LNC). “That is what we teach out here. We want our future officers to be able to always provide proper guidance, which means knowing where to go.”
The cadets who received the training were all part of Cadet Initial Entry Training, a leadership program designed to introduce them to Army life.
“We will have the opportunity to directly influence over 3,000 cadets who will be the future leaders of this Army,” said Lt. Col. Marc Beckage, officer in charge, LNC. “We must be mindful of what we say and how we present ourselves.”
An important task of the LNC was to educate cadets on the importance of the work and rest cycle and proper hydration and nutrition during periods of high heat and humidity, explained Spc. Kenneth Muniz, trainer, LNC.
“It’s very easy to overheat out here, so it is important to stay hydrated and cool off periodically,” said Muniz.
The LNC also marked hazards along the northern boundary to ensure the safety of cadets.
“One of the cadets did not know how to use a compass at night,” said Sgt. Michael Schultz, team leader, LNC. “I gave him a quick class and back briefed him to make sure he understood. It was a great feeling to be able to assist the cadet and help him complete his mission.”
This was an important experience for the Soldiers assigned to the Cadet Summer Training program.
“We’ve asked so much from these Soldiers. They’ve exceeded all of our expectations and done it with a great attitude,” said Oliver. “They’ve really done a tremendous job.”