15 June 2008
BIG SANDY, Texas – At 0445 the cadets were awakened by their flight staff and marched down to the parade field for physical training. PT consisted of flutter kicks, push ups, sit ups and a 15-minute run. After PT the cadets made their way to the chow hall to eat hard boiled eggs, cereal, and muffins for breakfast. 30 minutes later, the cadets were back in their barracks, cleaning and changing into their battle dress uniforms for the day.

By 0800 the cadets had marched to the auditorium for classes. Today’s classes covered civilian career opportunities in aviation, activities cadets can attend in the Texas Wing, national cadet special activities and the benefits of the Mitchell and Spaatz awards. Once classes concluded, the cadets returned to the dining hall for a pizza lunch. After chow, the cadets marched back to class for a program that covered safe operation and use of the firearms that will be shot on the range later.

After the evening class, Chaplain Whitt put on optional church services for the cadets. Cadets that did not attend services were brought back to their barracks for personal time. Personal time is a valued commodity at encampments. During their brief moments of free time cadets can take showers, iron their uniforms, polish boots, visit with each other or sleep to prepare for the next day. Tomorrow cadets will begin a rotation of visits to the firing range, a ropes course and the parade field for drill. 

Evening Formation:
Honor Flight Hotel

Article and photos submitted by The Encampment PAO Staff