Your arrival at the basic training receiving battalion

Many future soldiers make the mistake that as soon as they get to basic training they will jump into the action of blowing things up, shooting, and going on missions like what they’ve seen in Hollywood movies like Full Metal Jacket. It will not happen exactly like that.

Once a recruit reaches basic training, they will not begin any physical training at all. No physical exercises, no missions or nothing more than pushing paperwork! You will be sent to the Receiving Battalion to deliver your personal and financial records that you have received from the Military Entry Processing Station (MEPS). If you arrive late (midnight or 1am), expect not to rest because processing starts at 0500 until the end of the day.

Here you will spend one to three weeks processing through 18 different stations under the control of Drill Sergeants. During this time, your military records will be established and followed throughout your Army career. Below are some of the things you will do at reception.

CLOTHING. You will receive a full wardrobe of delivered clothing such as your ACU, Dress Blues, winter boots, warm weather boots, patrol cap, underwear, socks, belts, etc. Make sure everything fits you well so you don’t have problems in the future during training.

MEDICAL EVALUATION. You will receive your vaccination, dental x-rays, and eye exam. If you wear glasses, you will get new military glasses.

FINANCE. Here you will establish your direct deposit with the finance department. Make sure the bank routing and account number are correct so that you can receive payment on time.

TROOP STORE. Your Drill Sergeants will take you to the troop store to purchase the basic necessities you will need for training. In addition, you will receive an EZ-Pay card that has a $ 250-300 advance that comes out of your first paycheck to pay for the essentials at the troop store. Also, you will have to buy your own tennis shoes.

Other things like taking your self portrait for your photo ID and yearbook, and getting your first military haircut …

ORIENTATION. After your equipment has been delivered, your Drill Sergeants will have an auditorium orientation with recruits on sexual harassment, equal opportunity, discrimination, and what is expected of you from the Army.

Your last day in the receiving battalion is move-in day where you pack up all your gear and are transferred to your new company area to begin your nine weeks of basic training and embark on your military career.